bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Requirement of phosphatase of regenerating liver‐3 for the nucleolar localization of nucleolin during the progression of colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Semba Shuho , Mizuuchi Eri , Yokozaki Hiroshi
Published: June 2010

Phosphatase of regenerating liver‐3 (PRL‐3) is a protein tyrosine phosphatase (PTP) that is frequently overexpressed in liver metastases of colorectal carcinomas (CRCs). The PTP activity of the PRL‐3 protein is indispensable for the promotion of distant metastasis of CRC; however, little is known about the effect of PRL‐3 on cell growth. In this study, we investigated a novel protein that can connect to PRL‐3 to modulate the proliferation of CRC cells. In CRC‐derived SW480 cells, transduction of ectopic wild‐type PRL‐3, but not the C104S catalytic “dead” mutant, up‐regulated cell proliferation and increased the population of cells at the S and G2/M phases. Also, inhibition of PTP activity of the PRL‐3 protein by treatment with the PRL‐3 inhibitor suppressed cell proliferation in a dose‐dependent manner as well as PRL‐3 knockdown by RNA interference. Using a comparative study of monodimensional gel electrophoresis of immunoprecipitates from PRL‐3‐transfected SW480 cells and subsequent mass spectrometry analysis, nucleolar‐specific protein nucleolin (NCL) was identified as a novel PRL‐3‐binding protein. We confirmed physiological interaction between PRL‐3 and NCL, and found that PRL‐3 phosphatase activity was associated with the suppression of the phospho‐NCL levels and nucleolar assembly of NCL protein. In CRC cases, nucleolar NCL expression was correlated not only with higher levels of PRL‐3 expression but also with frequent incidence of lymph node metastasis and a higher clinicopathologic stage. These findings suggest that NCL is involved in PRL‐3‐mediated cancer progression/metastasis signaling, which plays an important role in the acceleration of CRC growth. (Cancer Sci 2010)
Clinical trial: the effects of a probiotic mixture on non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug enteropathy – a randomized, double‐blind, cross‐over, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Montalto M. , Gallo A. , Curigliano V. , D’Onofrio F. , Santoro L. , Covino M. , Dalvai S. , Gasbarrini A. , Gasbarrini G.
Published: June 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 209–214

Background  Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause serious gastrointestinal side effects. Faecal calprotectin assay represents a simple and practical method for diagnosis of NSAID enteropathy. Intestinal micro‐organisms are necessary for the development of NSAID‐induced small bowel lesions and hence it has been suggested that probiotics could protect against NSAID enteropathy.

Aim  To evaluate the effect of a probiotic mixture in comparison with placebo on faecal calprotectin concentrations (FCCs) in healthy volunteers receiving indomethacin.

Methods  In a double‐blind, cross‐over trial, 20 healthy volunteers ingested a daily dose of probiotic mixture (VSL#3) or placebo for 21 days. From day 16 to day 19, all subjects were also administered 50 mg/day of indomethacin. FCCs were measured the day before starting probiotic/placebo ingestion (T0), and every day from day 15 to day 21.

Results  During dosing with probiotic, median FCCs were significantly increased only at day 17 with respect to T0 values, whereas during dosing with placebo, they were significantly increased at every day from day 17 to day 21 with respect to T0 values.

Conclusions  Treatment with VSL#3 before and during indomethacin therapy significantly reduces FCCs in healthy subjects with respect to placebo, suggesting that this approach could be useful in decreasing indomethacin‐induced intestinal inflammation.
The economics of coeliac disease: a population‐based study
Authors: Long K. H. , Rubio‐Tapia A. , Wagie A. E. , Melton III L. J. , Lahr B. D. , Van Dyke C. T. , Murray J. A.
Published: June 2010

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 2010; 32: 261–269

Background  Despite increasing prevalence, the economic implications of coeliac disease are just emerging.

Aims  To assess the impact of coeliac disease diagnosis on healthcare costs and the incremental costs associated with coeliac disease.

Methods  Administrative data for a population‐based cohort of coeliac disease cases and matched controls from Olmsted County, Minnesota were used to compare (i) direct medical costs 1 year pre‐ and post‐coeliac disease diagnosis for 133 index cases and (ii) 4‐year cumulative direct medical costs incurred by 153 index cases vs. 153 controls. Analyses exclude diagnostic‐related and out‐patient pharmaceutical costs.

Results  Average total costs were reduced by $1764 in the year following diagnosis (pre‐diagnosis cost of $5023 vs. $3259; 95% CI of difference: $688 to $2993). Over a 4‐year period, coeliac disease cases experienced higher out‐patient costs (mean difference of $1457; P = 0.016) and higher total costs than controls (mean difference of $3964; P = 0.053). Excess average total costs were concentrated among males with coeliac disease ($14 191 vs. $4019 for male controls; 95% CI of difference: $2334 to $20 309).

Conclusions  Coeliac disease‐associated costs indicate a significant economic burden of disease, particularly for diseased males. Diagnosis and treatment of coeliac disease reduce medical costs of care suggesting an economic advantage to earlier detection and treatment.
Sand aspiration: a case report and review of the radiological features and management
Authors: Appelboam R. , Williams M. P. , Duffy M. R.
Published: June 2010

We report a case of severe sand aspiration in association with near‐drowning, which led to respiratory failure secondary to the acute respiratory distress syndrome, necessitating mechanical ventilation, repeated therapeutic bronchoscopic lavage, and a stay in the intensive care unit that exceeded one month.
Evaluation of the novel, single‐use, flexible aScope® for tracheal intubation in the simulated difficult airway and first clinical experiences
Authors: Piepho T. , Werner C. , Noppens R. R.
Published: June 2010

Flexible fibreoptic intubation is widely accepted as an important modality for the management of patients with difficult airways. We compared the aScope®, a novel, single‐use, flexible video‐endoscope designed to aid tracheal intubation, with a standard flexible intubating fibrescope, by examining the performance of 21 anaesthetists during an easy and difficult intubation simulation in a manikin. Intubation success, time for intubation, and rating of the devices (using a scale from 1, excellent to 6, fail) were documented. Intubation times were similar for both flexible 'scopes in the scenarios (p = 0.59). Successful intubation rates were higher for the standard intubating fibrescope (17/21, 81%) than the aScope (14/21, 67%; p = 0.02) in the difficult intubation scenario. The median (IQR[range]) ratings for the standard fibrescope vs the aScope were respectively: overall, 2 (1.75–2 [1–2.5]) vs 3 (2–3.25 [1–5]) (p < 0.0001); picture quality 2 (1.5–2 [1–3]) vs 3 (2–4 [1–5]) (p < 0.0001). The aScope was also successfully used to facilitate tracheal intubation in five patients with anticipated or unanticipated difficult airways. Picture quality was sufficient to identify the anatomical landmarks. Although the performance of the aScope is acceptable, it does not meet the current quality of standard flexible intubation fibrescopes.
Sand remobilization and injection above an active salt diapir: the Tyr sand of the Nini Field, Eastern North Sea
Authors: Svendsen Johan Byskov , Hansen Henrik Juhl , Stærmose Thomas , Engkilde Michael Kragh
Published: June 2010

The Selandien [58 Ma (PP3c‐d)] Tyr sand in the Nini area, Siri Fairway, Danish North Sea, is severely influenced by the syn‐depositional movement of the Nini Salt Diapir. The sand is faulted and remobilized into a degree where no original depositional signature can be recognized. The Tyr sand is drilled (and cored) by a number of wells, and the sand is never found in the same stratigraphic position. In some wells, the Tyr sand is injected down into the chalk of the Danian Ekofisk Formation, whereas other wells show the Tyr sand embedded in the Selandien Vile Member claystone, with varying degree of remobilization. The Tyr sand is thin (2–7 m) and is therefore below seismic resolution and close to seismic detection. Standard reflection seismic data has proven problematic in determining the actual thickness and spatial distribution of the thin Tyr sand located within or immediately above the chalk. A simultaneous AVO (amplitude vs. offset) inversion using time‐aligned angle stack seismic data, has improved resolution of the thin and complex reservoir, allowing a better understanding of the remobilization processes occurring above the rising salt diapir, and thereby an improved understanding of the reservoir and its performance. Three different remobilization features are described: injection into the chalk, injection up along fault planes and compactional driven injection. The force for the remobilization spans in orders of magnitude from metre scale phenomena, to injections of 100s of metres, moving millions of tons of material and fluids.
Health-related quality of life and healthcare resource use in European patients with plaque psoriasis: an association independent of observed disease severity
Authors: Sato R. , Milligan G. , Molta C. , Singh A.
Published: June 2010

Background. Healthcare resource utilization (HCRU) by patients with plaque psoriasis increases with skin lesion severity; however, the relationship between patient quality of life (QoL), which correlates only weakly with clinical severity, and HCRU is less understood.

Aim. To evaluate the relationship between QoL, HCRU and employment in European patients with plaque psoriasis.

Methods. Patients (n = 897) were recruited in five European countries. Data were analysed by group according to the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI): ≤ 10 (better QoL) and > 10 (worse QoL).

Results. Mean numbers of primary dermatologist visits and hospitalizations were significantly higher for patients with DLQI > 10. Likewise, significantly more patients with worse QoL reported employment disadvantages. Significant differences were maintained even after adjusting for age, gender and body surface area affected.

Conclusions. In patients with plaque psoriasis, poorer QoL is associated with increased HCRU, independent of clinical severity. This suggests that QoL, in addition to skin lesion severity, should be considered in predicting the economic burden of disease.
Local host ant specificity of Phengaris (Maculinea) teleius butterfly, an obligatory social parasite of Myrmica ants
Authors: WITEK MAGDALENA , NOWICKI PIOTR , ŚLIWIŃSKA EWA B. , SKÓRKA PIOTR , SETTELE JOSEF , SCHÖNROGGE KARSTEN , WOYCIECHOWSKI MICHAL
Published: June 2010

1. Phengaris butterflies are obligatory social parasites of Myrmica ants. Early research suggested that there is a different Myrmica host species for each of the five European Phengaris social parasites, but more recent studies have shown that this was an oversimplification.

2. The pattern of host ant specificity within a Phengaris teleius metapopulation from southern Poland is reported. A combination of studying the frequency distribution of Phengaris occurrence and morphometrics on adult butterflies were used to test whether use of different host species is reflected in larval development.

3. Phengaris teleius larvae were found to survive in colonies of four Myrmica species: M. scabrinodis, M. rubra, M. ruginodis, and M. rugulosa. Myrmica scabrinodis was the most abundant species under the host plant but the percentage of infested nests was similar to other host ant species at two sites and lower in comparison to nests of M. rubra and M. ruginodis at the other two sites. Morphometric measurements of adult butterflies reared by wild colonies of M. scabrinodis and M. ruginodis showed that wing size and number of wing spots were slightly greater for adults eclosing from nests of M. ruginodis.

4. Our results suggest that P. teleius in the populations studied is less specialised than previously suggested. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that P. teleius is expected to be the least specific of the European Phengaris species, as it has the largest and best defended fourth‐instar caterpillars and, as a predatory species, it spends less time in the central larval chambers of the host colonies. The fact that individuals reared by M. ruginodis had wider hind wings may suggest that P. teleius had better access to resources in M. ruginodis than in M. scabrinodis colonies.
Evidence of increased net ecosystem productivity associated with a longer vegetated season in a deciduous forest in south‐central Indiana, USA
Authors: DRAGONI DANILO , SCHMID HANS PETER , WAYSON CRAIG A. , POTTER HENRY , GRIMMOND C. SUSAN B. , RANDOLPH JAMES C.
Published: June 2010

Observations of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) of carbon and its biophysical drivers have been collected at the AmeriFlux site in the Morgan‐Monroe State Forest (MMSF) in Indiana, USA since 1998. Thus, this is one of the few deciduous forest sites in the world, where a decadal analysis on net ecosystem productivity (NEP) trends is possible. Despite the large interannual variability in NEP, the observations show a significant increase in forest productivity over the past 10 years (by an annual increment of about 10 g C m−2 yr−1). There is evidence that this trend can be explained by longer vegetative seasons, caused by extension of the vegetative activity in the fall. Both phenological and flux observations indicate that the vegetative season extended later in the fall with an increase in length of about 3 days yr−1for the past 10 years. However, these changes are responsible for only 50% of the total annual gain in forest productivity in the past decade. A negative trend in air and soil temperature during the winter months may explain an equivalent increase in NEP through a decrease in ecosystem respiration.
Do community‐level models describe community variation effectively?
Authors: Baselga Andrés , Araújo Miguel B.
Published: June 2010

Aim  The aim of community‐level modelling is to improve the performance of species distributional models by taking patterns of co‐occurrence among species into account. Here, we test this expectation by examining how well three community‐level modelling strategies (‘assemble first, predict later’, ‘predict first, assemble later’, and ‘assemble and predict together’) spatially project the observed composition of species assemblages.

Location  Europe.

Methods  Variation in the composition of European tree assemblages and its spatial and environmental correlates were examined with cluster analysis and constrained analysis of principal coordinates. Results were used to benchmark spatial projections from three community‐based strategies: (1) assemble first, predict later (cluster analysis first, then generalized linear models, GLMs); (2) predict first, assemble later (GLMs first, then cluster analysis); and (3) assemble and predict together (constrained quadratic ordination).

Results  None of the community‐level modelling strategies was able to accurately model the observed distribution of tree assemblages in Europe. Uncertainty was particularly high in southern Europe, where modelled assemblages were markedly different from observed ones. Assembling first and predicting later led to distribution models with the simultaneous occurrence of several types of assemblages in southern Europe that do not co‐occur, and the remaining strategies yielded models with the presence of non‐analogue assemblages that presently do not exist and that are much more strongly correlated with environmental gradients than with the real assemblages.

Main conclusions  Community‐level models were unable to characterize the distribution of European tree assemblages effectively. Models accounting for co‐occurrence patterns along environmental gradients did not outperform methods that assume individual responses of species to climate. Unrealistic assemblages were generated because of the models’ inability to capture fundamental processes causing patterns of covariation among species. The usefulness of these forms of community‐based models thus remains uncertain and further research is required to demonstrate their utility.
Review of risk factors and preventative strategies for fall‐related injuries in people with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Willgoss Thomas G , Yohannes Abebaw M , Mitchell Duncan
Published: June 2010

Aims.  To explore the risk factors and management of falls in people with intellectual disabilities and develop evidence‐based recommendations.

Background.  Falling is a common cause of physical injury and impaired quality of life in people with intellectual disability. Risk factors for falls and falls prevention have been extensively researched in the general population but there is a paucity of evidence specific to people with intellectual disabilities.

Design.  Systematic review and comment.

Method.  Publications on the prevalence, risk factors and prevention of falls in people with intellectual disability were sought. We searched MEDLINE, CINAHL, PsychInfo and AMED (1 January 2000–7 January 2009). Search terms used to extract the relevant articles were ‘intellectual disability’, ‘falls’, ‘injury’, ‘fractures’, ‘risk factors’ and ‘prevention’.

Results.  Seven articles met the inclusion criteria. Up to 57% of people with intellectual disabilities experienced a fall. Falling was the cause of 50–62% of all recorded injuries. Risk factors for falls in people with intellectual disabilities may include older age, impaired mobility, epilepsy and behavioural problems. There was a paucity of evidence for intervention strategies identified.

Conclusion.  There is a lack of evidence for falls management in people with intellectual disabilities. Findings suggest that falls are a common cause of injury, institutionalisation and impaired quality of life in people with intellectual disabilities. Environmental safety, careful medical management and exercise interventions may play an important role in minimising fall‐related injuries. Further research is needed to explore risk factors for falls and falls management in this vulnerable group.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Early identification of the risk factors and prevention of falls will inform nurses and other healthcare professionals those who are at most risk and how to minimise injury in people with an intellectual disability. A multi‐model approach of comprehensive assessment and tailored intervention are worthy of endeavour.
Experimental challenge studies in Vietnamese catfish, Pangasianodon hypophthalmus (Sauvage), exposed to Edwardsiella ictaluri and Aeromonas hydrophila
Authors: Crumlish M , Thanh P C , Koesling J , Tung V T , Gravningen K
Published: June 2010

The two main diseases in the pangasius catfish industry are bacillary necrosis of Pangasianodon (BNP) and motile aeromonas septicaemia (MAS), where the aetiological agents have been identified as Edwardsiella ictaluri and Aeromonas hydrophila, respectively. In this study, apparently healthy Pangasianodon hypophthalmus were exposed to E. ictaluri, A. hydrophila or both bacterial species by intraperitoneal injection or immersion. There were 20 fish per treatment group, and the bacterial isolates used for the study were recovered from natural infections of BNP or MAS in farmed Vietnamese P. hypophthalmus. The results of the experimental infections mimicked the natural disease outbreaks reported from these pathogens in P. hypophthalmus. Furthermore, it was clearly demonstrated that E. ictaluri was only recovered from the fish exposed to the bacterium and not recovered from the animals receiving A. hydrophila.
Stabilization of Clostridium perfringens collagenase mRNA by VR‐RNA‐dependent cleavage in 5′ leader sequence
Authors: Obana Nozomu , Shirahama Yu , Abe Kimihiro , Nakamura Kouji
Published: June 2010

The small RNA (sRNA), VR‐RNA that is directly regulated by the VirR/VirS two‐component system, regulates many genes including toxin genes such as collagenase (colA) and phospholipase C (plc) in Clostridium perfringens. Although the VR‐RNA 3′ region is sufficient to regulate the colA and plc genes, the molecular mechanism of toxin gene regulation by VR‐RNA remains unclear. Here, we found that colA mRNA is cleaved at position −79 and −78 from the A of the first codon (ATG) in the presence of VR‐RNA. The processed transcripts were stable compared with longer intact transcripts. On the other hand, colA mRNA was labile in a VR‐RNA‐deficient strain, and processed transcripts were undetectable. The stability and processing of colA mRNA were restored by transformation of the 3′ region of VR‐RNA‐expression vector. The 3′ region of VR‐RNA and colA mRNA had significant complementation and interacted in vitro. These results show that VR‐RNA base pairs with colA mRNA and induces cleavage in the 5′ untranslated region (UTR) of colA mRNA, which leads to the stabilization of colA mRNA and the activation of colA expression.
Investigating lipoprotein biogenesis and function in the model Gram‐positive bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor
Authors: Thompson Benjamin J. , Widdick David A. , Hicks Matthew G. , Chandra Govind , Sutcliffe Iain C. , Palmer Tracy , Hutchings Matthew I.
Published: June 2010

Lipoproteins are a distinct class of bacterial membrane proteins that are translocated across the cytoplasmic membrane primarily by the Sec general secretory pathway and then lipidated on a conserved cysteine by the enzyme lipoprotein diacylglycerol transferase (Lgt). The signal peptide is cleaved by lipoprotein signal peptidase (Lsp) to leave the lipid‐modified cysteine at the N‐terminus of the mature lipoprotein. In all Gram‐positive bacteria tested to date this pathway is non‐essential and the lipid attaches the protein to the outer leaflet of the cytoplasmic membrane. Here we identify lipoproteins in the model Gram‐positive bacterium Streptomyces coelicolor using bioinformatics coupled with proteomic and downstream analysis. We report that Streptomyces species translocate large numbers of lipoproteins out via the Tat (twin arginine translocase) pathway and we present evidence that lipoprotein biogenesis might be an essential pathway in S. coelicolor. This is the first analysis of lipoproteins and lipoprotein biogenesis in Streptomyces and provides the first evidence that lipoprotein biogenesis could be essential in a Gram‐positive bacterium. This report also provides the first experimental evidence that Tat plays a major role in the translocation of lipoproteins in a specific bacterium.
FfVel1 and FfLae1, components of a velvet‐like complex in Fusarium fujikuroi, affect differentiation, secondary metabolism and virulence
Authors: Wiemann Philipp , Brown Daren W. , Kleigrewe Karin , Bok Jin Woo , Keller Nancy P. , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich , Tudzynski Bettina
Published: June 2010

Besides industrially produced gibberellins (GAs), Fusarium fujikuroi is able to produce additional secondary metabolites such as the pigments bikaverin and neurosporaxanthin and the mycotoxins fumonisins and fusarin C. The global regulation of these biosynthetic pathways is only poorly understood. Recently, the velvet complex containing VeA and several other regulatory proteins was shown to be involved in global regulation of secondary metabolism and differentiation in Aspergillus nidulans. Here, we report on the characterization of two components of the F. fujikuroi velvet‐like complex, FfVel1 and FfLae1. The gene encoding this first reported LaeA orthologue outside the class of Eurotiomycetidae is upregulated in ΔFfvel1 microarray‐studies and FfLae1 interacts with FfVel1 in the nucleus. Deletion of Ffvel1 and Fflae1 revealed for the first time that velvet can simultaneously act as positive (GAs, fumonisins and fusarin C) and negative (bikaverin) regulator of secondary metabolism, and that both components affect conidiation and virulence of F. fujikuroi. Furthermore, the velvet‐like protein FfVel2 revealed similar functions regarding conidiation, secondary metabolism and virulence as FfVel1. Cross‐genus complementation studies of velvet complex component mutants between Fusarium, Aspergillus and Penicillium support an ancient origin for this complex, which has undergone a divergence in specific functions mediating development and secondary metabolism.
Cell dispersal in biofilms: an extracellular DNA masks nature's strongest glue
Authors: Kirkpatrick Clare L. , Viollier Patrick H.
Published: June 2010

Growth in biofilms provides bacterial species with many advantages over growth in suspension, e.g. colonization of nutrient‐rich areas. In the α‐proteobacterium Caulobacter crescentus biofilm formation is facilitated through its asymmetric cell division, where one daughter cell becomes a motile flagellated swarmer cell able to colonize new surfaces while the other remains as a stalked cell attached to the substrate through the adhesive holdfast. The Caulobacter biofilm consists of stalked cells arranged either in a monolayer or in a multicellular ‘mushroom’ structure. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, Berne et al. demonstrate that extracellular DNA (eDNA) from lysed cells prevents biofilm maturation. eDNA masks the adhesive properties of newly synthesized holdfast to enable the escape of swarmer cells from the biofilm. By contrast, holdfasts on previously attached stalked cells remain unaffected by eDNA. Surprisingly, the inhibitory effect was genus‐specific, as only DNA from Caulobacter, but not from other genera, could interfere with biofilm maturation. This study reveals a new role for DNA in biofilms, as a regulatory rather than a structural component, and a novel mechanism to facilitate the escape of cells from biofilms. A compelling case is made for the existence of a new type of genus‐specific ‘macromolecular language’.
Distribution and molecular characterization of Corynespora cassiicola isolates resistant to boscalid
Authors: Miyamoto T. , Ishii H. , Stammler G. , Koch A. , Ogawara T. , Tomita Y. , Fountaine J. M. , Ushio S. , Seko T. , Kobori S.
Published: June 2010

A total of 618 isolates of corynespora leaf spot fungus (Corynespora cassiicola) collected from 24 commercial cucumber greenhouses in 12 cities in Ibaraki Prefecture, Japan, were tested for their sensitivity to boscalid. Boscalid‐resistant isolates were detected in 17 out of 19 greenhouses with a history of use of this fungicide and detection frequencies of the resistant isolates exceeded 47% in nine greenhouses. Frequencies of very highly resistant (VHR) isolates with 50% effective concentration (EC50) values of boscalid exceeding 30 μg mL−1 were higher than those of moderately resistant (MR) isolates with EC50 ranging from 2·0 to 5·9 μg mL−1 in 11 greenhouses. Additionally, highly resistant (HR) isolates with EC50 from 8·9 to 10·7 μg mL−1 were first detected. Furthermore, molecular characterization of genes encoding succinate dehydrogenase (SDH) subunits (SdhA, SdhB, SdhC and SdhD) was carried out to elucidate the amino acid substitution responsible for the resistance to boscalid. All 23 VHR isolates had the same mutation from CAC to TAC in the SdhB gene leading to the substitution of histidine with tyrosine at amino acid position 278 (B‐H278Y). At the same position, the substitution to arginine conferred by a mutation to CGC (B‐H278R) was detected in all four HR isolates. Some MR isolates showed a substitution from serine to proline at position 73 in SdhC (C‐S73P), from serine to proline or from glycine to valine at position 89 (D‐S89P) and 109 (D‐G109V), respectively, in SdhD. There was no common mutation in SDH genes of all MR isolates.
Changes in helper lymphocyte chemokine receptor expression and elevation of IP‐10 during acute respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants
Authors: Roe Michael F. E. , Bloxham David M. , Cowburn Andrew S. , O’Donnell Diarmuid R.
Published: June 2010

To cite this article: Roe MFE, Bloxham DM, Cowburn AS, O’Donnell DR. Changes in helper lymphocyte chemokine receptor expression and elevation of IP‐10 during acute respiratory syncytial virus infection in infants. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 229–234.

It is known that lymphopenia caused by apoptosis may occur during severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection. However, further evidence about how T‐cell subsets may be affected in infants during severe RSV bronchiolitis is needed to understand the mechanisms through which immunological memory may be altered. There is increasingly convincing evidence that RSV may be associated with the development of atopy and asthma. Surrogates of Th1, Th2 and regulatory T‐lymphocyte populations were measured in blood from children with acute RSV bronchiolitis and in convalescence using the cell surface receptors CXCR3, CCR4 and CD25, respectively. Samples were also obtained from healthy age‐matched controls. Plasma levels of the chemokines interferon‐γ inducible protein‐10 (IP‐10) and thymus and activation‐regulated chemokine (TARC), which are known ligands for CXCR3 and CCR4, were also measured. Free plasma DNA was measured using quantitative PCR. CXCR3‐positive cells were significantly decreased during acute infection (p = 0.013), while CCR4 and CD25 T‐cell populations were unchanged. Plasma levels of IP‐10 were markedly elevated in acute infection (p = 0.001). Convalescent samples were not significantly different to control samples for lymphocyte phenotypes or plasma chemokines. Elevated free plasma DNA was detected during acute infection compared with convalescence and controls. A profound reduction in the Th1, but not Th2, and CD25‐positive lymphocyte populations associated with exaggerated IP‐10 production occurs in severe RSV bronchiolitis. Free DNA is detectable in plasma. This may allow significant alterations in the generation of T‐cell memory.
Abernethy malformation complicated by hepatopulmonary syndrome and a liver mass successfully treated by liver transplantation
Authors: Osorio Maria Joana , Bonow Alison , Bond Geoffrey J. , Rivera Marcus R. , Vaughan Kevin G. , Shah Amisha , Shneider Benjamin L.
Published: June 2010

Osorio MJ, Bonow A, Bond GJ, Rivera MR, Vaughan KG, Shah A, Shneider BL. Abernethy malformation complicated by hepatopulmonary syndrome and a liver mass successfully treated by liver transplantation. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: E149–E151. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  A seven‐yr‐old boy presented with persistent oxygen requirement following a respiratory infection. Physical exam was remarkable for orthodeoxia and digital clubbing. Laboratory evaluation showed elevated A‐a oxygen gradient of 48 mmHg and mildly elevated transaminases. Sonography showed a 13 cm multilobulated liver mass and a biopsy revealed histological findings consistent with focal nodular hyperplasia. MAA scan revealed 23% right to left shunting. Abdominal CTA and MRV demonstrated the absence of the intrahepatic portal vein with an extrahepatic portocaval shunt. Abernethy malformation is a rare anomalous intra‐ or extrahepatic communication between portal blood flow and systemic venous return. In rare cases, Abernethy malformation results in HPS. Ours is the sixth case report to describe the co‐existence of these two entities. Surgical correction of anomalous hepatic vasculature or liver transplant is imperative to restoration of lung function and also to prevent progression of possible malignant liver tumors. We describe the second patient with Abernethy and HPS who underwent liver transplant with complete resolution of HPS.
Influence of atypical features on the quality of prophylactic effectiveness of long‐term lithium treatment in bipolar disorders
Authors: Pfennig Andrea , Schlattmann Peter , Alda Martin , Grof Paul , Glenn Tasha , Müller‐Oerlinghausen Bruno , Suwalska Aleksandra , Rybakowski Janusz , Willich Stefan N , Bauer Michael , Berghöfer Anne
Published: June 2010

Pfennig A, Schlattmann P, Alda M, Grof P, Glenn T, Müller‐Oerlinghausen B, Suwalska A, Rybakowski J, Willich SN, Bauer M, Berghöfer A. Influence of atypical features on the quality of prophylactic effectiveness of long‐term lithium treatment in bipolar disorders. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 390–396. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  There is still debate about whether the quality of long‐term efficacy of lithium in patients with bipolar disorders is influenced by atypical features. Extended Cox regression models allow for the use of all follow‐up data on diseases with multiple episodes. The aim of the present analysis was to apply the best suited of these models to analyze the influence of atypical features on the widely used outcome measure of time to recurrence in a large multicenter cohort of lithium responders established by the International Group for the Study of Lithium Treated Patients.

Methods:  A conditional extended Cox model with a random frailty term was applied to the data of 336 bipolar I and II disorder patients, all of whom were responders to lithium with treatment for up to 30 years.

Results:  Differences were found in the long‐term outcome, even in patients who have demonstrated a relatively good response to lithium treatment. The hazard for recurrence was negatively influenced by the presence of atypical features, mainly mood‐incongruent psychotic symptoms, interepisodic residual symptomatology, and rapid cycling.

Conclusions:  As a result of the findings, physicians should regularly reassess the quality of response in bipolar disorder patients with atypical features and, if necessary, modify treatment. Extended Cox regression models are well suited for evaluating long‐term outcome and should be used more extensively to analyze treatment outcome in psychiatric and somatic disorders.
Folic acid administration prevents ouabain‐induced hyperlocomotion and alterations in oxidative stress markers in the rat brain
Authors: Brocardo Patrícia S , Budni Josiane , Pavesi Eloísa , Franco Jeferson L , Uliano‐Silva Marcela , Trevisan Rafael , Terenzi Mariana G , Dafre Alcir L , Rodrigues Ana Lúcia S
Published: June 2010

Brocardo PS, Budni J, Pavesi E, Franco JL, Uliano‐Silva M, Trevisan R, Terenzi MG, Dafre AL, Rodrigues ALS. Folic acid administration prevents ouabain‐induced hyperlocomotion and alterations in oxidative stress markers in the rat brain. Bipolar Disord 2010: 12: 414–424. © 2010 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  Bipolar disorder (BD) is a chronic, prevalent, and highly debilitating psychiatric illness. Folic acid has been shown to have antidepressant‐like effects in preclinical and clinical studies and has also been suggested to play a role in BD. The present work investigates the therapeutic value of folic acid supplementation in a preclinical animal model of mania induced by ouabain.

Methods:  Male Wistar rats were treated twice daily for seven days with folic acid (10, 50, and 100 mg/kg, p.o.) or the mood stabilizer lithium chloride (LiCl) (45 mg/kg, p.o.). One day after the last dose was given, the animals received an i.c.v. injection of ouabain (10 μM), a Na+,K+‐ATPase‐inhibiting compound. Locomotor activity was assessed in the open‐field test. Thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substance (TBARS) levels, glutathione peroxidase (GPx), and glutathione reductase (GR) activities were measured in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus.

Results:  Ouabain (10 μM, i.c.v.) significantly increased motor activity in the open‐field test, and seven days of pretreatment with folic acid (50 mg/kg, p.o.) or LiCl (45 mg/kg, p.o.) completely prevented this effect. Ouabain treatment elicited lipid peroxidation (increased TBARS levels) and reduced GPx activity in the hippocampus. GR activity was decreased in the cerebral cortex and hippocampus. These effects were prevented by pretreatment with folic acid and LiCl.

Conclusions:  Our results show that folic acid, similarly to LiCl, produces a clear antimanic action and prevents the neurochemical alterations indicative of oxidative stress in an animal model of mania.
A rapid detection of the pinewood nematode, Bursaphelenchus xylophilus in stored Monochamus alternatus by rDNA amplification
Authors: Wang X. R. , Zhu X. W. , Kong X. C. , Mota M. M.
Published: June 2010

Pine wilt disease (PWD) caused by pinewood nematode (PWN) Bursaphelenchus xylophilus has originated serious loss to pine forestry around the world. Monochamus alternatus is the most important vector of B. xylophilus in Japan and China. It is necessary to develop an efficient method to store M. alternatus for subsequent PCR detection of B. xylophilus. In the present study, beetle samples carrying nematodes were stored in 75% alcohol. A simple procedure was firstly developed for isolating B. xylophilus DNA in 2 mg stored beetle tissue carrying nematodes for subsequent nematode detection by PCR amplification. The B. xylophilus– specific amplicon of 403 bp (DQ855275) was generated by PCR assay from the stored beetle tissue. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a rapid detection of the pine wood nematode –B. xylophilus in stored M. alternatus by rDNA amplification established without a separate nematode extraction. This result will provide a useful method to detect B. xylophilus in stored M. alternatus.
The Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model: application in prediction of TSWV‐vectors populations
Authors: Olatinwo R. O. , Prabha T. , Paz J. O. , Riley D. G. , Hoogenboom G.
Published: June 2010

In the southeastern United States, millions of dollars worth of crop damage associated with tobacco thrips (Frankliniella fusca Hinds) and western flower thrips (Frankliniella occidentalis Pergande) are reported annually for economically important crops such as cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.). Tobacco thrips and western flower thrips are also important vectors of Tomato spotted wilt virus (TSWV). The populations and spread of both thrips species relies on favourable weather conditions, especially prolonged temperatures above a minimum developmental threshold. Accurate local weather information is, therefore, crucial for early prediction of thrips’ population dynamics during the spring when thrips’ population information could assist farmers in mitigating damage to crops. The objective of this study was to demonstrate the application of the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model predictions for developing high resolution spatial and temporal forecast maps of favourable conditions for thrips’ development even for locations where weather stations are not available. Tobacco thrips and western flower thrips were evaluated based on degree‐day models. The results showed that southwestern Georgia is more favourable for thrips development during the early part of the growing season, although the rate of development varied according to the thrips species. The maps that were produced using WRF output provided high‐resolution forecasts for favourable conditions and scouting guidance in places where weather information was limited. An accurate prediction of pest development based on forecasts of favourable conditions may assist growers in pest management decisions and in timely application of insecticides.
Efficient Transgene Expression in IVF and Parthenogenetic Bovine Embryos by Intracytoplasmic Injection of DNA–Liposome Complexes
Authors: Vichera G , Moro L , Salamone D
Published: June 2010

Contents

Transgenic animals constitute an important tool with many biotechnological applications. Although there have been advances in this field, we propose a novel method that may greatly increase the efficiency of transgenic animal production and thereby its application. This new technique consists of intracytoplasmic injection of liposomes, in bovine oocytes and zygotes, to introduce exogenous DNA. In the first experiment, we evaluated embryo development and EGFP expression in In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) embryos injected with different concentrations of exogenous DNA–liposome complexes (0.5, 5, 50, 500 ng pCX‐EGFP/μl). The highest EGFP‐embryos rates were obtained using 500 ng pCX‐EGFP/μl. In the second experiment, we evaluated embryo development and EGFP expression following the injection of DNA–liposome complexes into pre‐fertilized oocytes and presumptive zygotes, 16 and 24 h post‐fertilization. Approximately 70% of the cleaved embryos and 50% of the blastocysts expressed EGFP, when egfp–liposome was injected 16 h post‐fertilization. The percentages of positive embryos for the 24‐h post‐fertilization and pre‐fertilization groups were 30.1 and 6.3, respectively. Blastocysts that developed from injected zygotes were analysed by PCR, confirming the presence of transgene in all embryos. Finally, we examined the embryo development and EGFP expression of parthenogenetic embryos that resulted from the injection of egfp–liposome complexes into pre‐activated oocytes, and 3 and 11 h post‐activated oocytes. The group with the highest expression rate (48.4%) was the one injected 3 h post‐activation. In summary, this study reports the efficient, reproducible and fast production of IVF and parthenogenetic embryos expressing EGFP, by the intracytoplasmic injection of liposomes to introduce the foreign DNA.
Influence of the Preservation Temperature (37, 20, 4, −196°C) and the Mixing of Semen over Sperm Quality of Majorera Bucks
Authors: Batista M , Niño T , Santana M , Alamo D , Castro N , Reyes R , González F , Cabrera F , Gracia A
Published: June 2010

Contents

This study assessed the effect of different semen storage temperatures and the influence of semen pooling in semen viability. In experiment 1, semen samples (n = 30) of five Majorera bucks were individually processed [Individual semen (IS)] and after the first dilution (Tris‐yolk extender), semen‐diluted aliquots from each male were pooled semen (PS). Thereafter, semen samples (IS and PS) were preserved as fresh semen (37 and 20°C), chilled semen (4°C) and frozen semen. Sperm motility and the percentage of abnormal sperm cells and intact membrane acrosomes were defined. Semen preservation at 20 and 4°C did not modify the quality of spermatozoa for the first 24 h, but the conservation at 37°C caused a dramatic fall in the semen motility from 12 h onwards. Furthermore, the longevity of frozen‐thawed semen was limited to 4–6 h. No differences were observed in semen parameters when PS was compared with semen from individual males in any of the preservation protocols assessed. In experiment 2, 120 goats were distributed in four experimental groups: in group fresh individual semen (FIS, n = 30) and group frozen‐thawed individual semen (FTIS, n = 30), does were transcervically inseminated with fresh semen and frozen‐thawed semen from each individual male, respectively, and in group fresh pooled semen (FPS, n = 30) and group frozen‐thawed pooled semen (FTPS, n = 30), goats were transcervically inseminated with FPS and FTPS, respectively. The kidding rate was very close in the FIS and FPS groups (70.0% and 73.7%, respectively), and no significant differences were observed in the fertility rate between FTIS and FTPS. The results of this study confirmed that semen samples may be preserved satisfactorily for 24 h both at 20 and 4°C. In addition, the mixture of semen of different bucks did not significantly modify the semen parameters when compared with semen from individual males.
Effect of Pregnancy and Foetal Number on Diameter of Corpus Luteum, Maternal Progesterone Concentration and Oxidant/Antioxidant Balance in Ewes
Authors: Gür S , Türk G , Demirci E , Yüce A , Sönmez M , Özer Ş , Aksu EH
Published: June 2010

Contents

The aim of this study was to determine the changes in diameter of corpus luteum (CL), maternal progesterone (P) concentration, lipid peroxidation and non‐enzymatic antioxidant levels along with enzymatic antioxidant activities in pregnant ewes bearing single and twin foetuses. The ewes were selected from healthy animals that were brought to the abattoir for slaughtering. The ewes were divided into three groups: Group 1 (non‐pregnant, non‐oestrous, n = 30), Group 2 (pregnant bearing a single foetus, n = 30) and Group 3 (pregnant bearing twin foetuses, n = 12) after they were slaughtered. Pregnant ewes were in the first half of the pregnancy. The diameter of CL and P concentration of pregnant ewes bearing a single foetus or twin foetuses were found higher than that found in non‐pregnant ewes. Similarly, the P concentration of pregnant ewes bearing twin foetuses was higher than that found in pregnant ewes bearing a single foetus. Malondialdehyde (MDA) level in pregnant ewes bearing twin foetuses was higher than that found in both non‐pregnant and pregnant ewes bearing a single foetus. The serum glutathione (GSH) level and glutathione‐peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity of pregnant ewes bearing twin foetuses were found lower than that found in non‐pregnant ewes. Additionally, the GSH‐Px activity of pregnant ewes bearing twin foetuses was found lower than that found in pregnant ewes bearing a single foetus. No significant difference was found between pregnant ewes bearing female and male foetus with respect to diameter of CL, P concentration and oxidative stress parameters. There were significant positive correlations between foetal number (0, 1, 2) and diameter of CL, P concentration, MDA level, and between P concentration and diameter of CL, MDA level. However, significant negative correlations were found between foetal number (0, 1, 2) and GSH level, GSH‐Px activity, and between P concentration and GSH‐Px activity. In conclusion, the diameter of CL enlarges, P production increases and oxidant/antioxidant balance impairs because of the gestation stress in ewes during pregnancy.
Systematic review of effective retention incentives for health workers in rural and remote areas: Towards evidence‐based policy
Authors: Buykx Penny , Humphreys John , Wakerman John , Pashen Dennis
Published: June 2010

Background:  Poor retention of health workers is a significant problem in rural and remote areas, with negative consequences for both health services and patient care.

Objective:  This review aimed to synthesise the available evidence regarding the effectiveness of retention strategies for health workers in rural and remote areas, with a focus on those studies relevant to Australia.

Design:  A systematic review method was adopted. Six program evaluation articles, eight review articles and one grey literature report were identified that met study inclusion/exclusion criteria.

Results:  While a wide range of retention strategies have been introduced in various settings to reduce unnecessary staff turnover and increase length of stay, few have been rigorously evaluated. Little evidence demonstrating the effectiveness of any specific strategy is currently available, with the possible exception of health worker obligation. Multiple factors influence length of employment, indicating that a flexible, multifaceted response to improving workforce retention is required.

Conclusions:  This paper proposes a comprehensive rural and remote health workforce retention framework to address factors known to contribute to avoidable turnover. The six components of the framework relate to staffing, infrastructure, remuneration, workplace organisation, professional environment, and social, family and community support. In order to ensure their effectiveness, retention strategies should be rigorously evaluated using appropriate pre‐ and post‐intervention comparisons.