bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microstructural characterization of nanocrystalline gold particles supported on CoCr2O4
Authors: MAŁECKA M.A. , KĘPIŃSKI L.
Published: November 2009

This work presents results of high‐resolution transmission electron microscope investigations of microstructure evolution of Au/CoCr2O4 catalyst subjected to various chemical treatments (reduction in hydrogen, reaction of propane oxidation and reaction of CO oxidation). Crystallites of CoCr2O4 support have octahedral or truncated octahedral shape and exhibit well‐developed faces, mostly (111). No change in the support morphology was noticed in catalyst samples after various chemical treatments. Small (∼8 nm) nanocrystals of gold supported on crystalline CoCr2O4 were observed for the fresh sample. The nanoparticles grow at the surface of CoCr2O4 as thin, disk‐like crystallites, in the preferred (111)Au∥(111)CoCr2O4 epitaxial orientation. Further treatment in hydrogen and in reaction conditions (CO and propane oxidation) did not change noticeably the size of Au particles, but modified slightly their shape. A main reason why Au particles retain small size despite heat treatment is their epitaxial contact with the CoCr2O4 support established during the catalyst preparation.
Maternal allergic disease does not affect the phenotype of T and B cells or the immune response to allergens in neonates
Authors: Rindsjö E. , Joerink M. , Johansson C. , Bremme K. , Malmström V. , Scheynius A.
Published: November 2009

To cite this article: Rindsjö E, Joerink M, Johansson C, Bremme K, Malmström V, Scheynius A. Maternal allergic disease does not affect the phenotype of T and B cells or the immune response to allergens in neonates. Allergy 2010; 65: 822–830.

Background:  It is hypothesized that the in utero environment in allergic mothers can affect the neonatal immune responses. The aim of this study was to analyse the effect of maternal allergic disease on cord blood mononuclear cell (CBMC) phenotype and proliferative responses upon allergen stimulation.

Methods:  Peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from 12 allergic and 14 nonallergic mothers and CBMC from their children were analysed. In the mothers, we determined cell proliferation, production of IL‐4 and expression of FOXP3 in response to allergen stimulation. In the children, we evaluated cell proliferation and FOXP3 expression following allergen stimulation. Furthermore, expression of different homing markers on T cells and regulatory T cells and maturity of the T cells and B cell subsets were evaluated directly ex vivo.

Results:  The timothy‐ and birch‐allergic mothers responded with increased proliferation and/or IL‐4 production towards timothy and birch extract, respectively, when compared to nonallergic mothers. This could not be explained by impairment of FOXP3+ regulatory T cells in the allergic mothers. CBMC proliferation and FOXP3 expression in response to allergens were not affected by the allergic status of the mother. Also, phenotype of T cells, FOXP3+ regulatory T cells and B cells was not affected by the allergic status of the mother.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that maternal allergic disease has no effect on the neonatal response to allergens or the phenotype of neonatal lymphocytes. The factors studied here could, however, still affect later development of allergy.
Implementation of ironXS: a study of the acceptability and feasibility of genetic screening for hereditary hemochromatosis in high schools
Authors: Delatycki MB , Wolthuizen M , Collins V , Varley E , Craven J , Allen KJ , Aitken MA , Bond L , Lockhart PJ , Wilson GR , Macciocca I , Metcalfe SA
Published: November 2009

Delatycki MB, Wolthuizen M, Collins V, Varley E, Craven J, Allen KJ, Aitken MA, Bond L, Lockhart PJ, Wilson GR, Macciocca I, Metcalfe SA. Implementation of ironXS: a study of the acceptability and feasibility of genetic screening for hereditary hemochromatosis in high schools.

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH), most often due to HFE C282Y homozygosity, is an iron overload disorder that can result in severe morbidity including hepatic cirrhosis. Predisposition to HH is easily diagnosed and morbidity is preventable by maintaining normal body iron and thus calls have been made to introduce community screening. The current study has been designed to assess the acceptability and feasibility of HH screening in high schools. Students (mostly 15–16 years of age) watched a purpose‐designed DVD for education about HH. Those with parental consent were then offered cheek‐brush screening for C282Y. Students completed a questionnaire prior to screening. The program was offered to 9187 students at 32 schools and 3489 (38%) had screening. Nineteen C282Y homozygotes (1 in 183) and 376 heterozygotes (1 in 9.3) were identified. More than 90% of students answered each of five knowledge questions correctly. Eight homozygotes (42%) had elevated transferrin saturation, but only two (10.5%) had marginally elevated serum ferritin (SF). We have shown that genetic screening for HH can successfully be offered in the high school setting. Ongoing research in this study will answer questions about the impact of high school students learning that they are at risk of HH.
Regional variation in infant hypoallergenic formula prescriptions in Australia
Authors: Mullins Raymond J. , Clark Sunday , Camargo Jr. Carlos A.
Published: November 2009

Mullins RJ, Clark S, Camargo Jr CA. Regional variation in infant hypoallergenic formula prescriptions in Australia. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: e413–e420. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

There is little information on the regional distribution of food allergy in Australia. We examined the influence of latitude (a marker of sunlight/vitamin D status) on food allergy, as measured by 2007 infant hypoallergenic formula (IHF) prescription rates in children ages 0–2 yrs. Data were compiled from the 52 statistical divisions in mainland Australia plus the island of Tasmania (n = 53 observations). Data from the Australian Department of Health and Aging and the Australian Bureau of Statistics were analysed by statistical division. There was significant regional variability in hypoallergenic formula prescription rates (per 100,000 population/yr), with the highest rates in southern Australia (14,406) and the lowest in the north (721), compared with a national average of 4099. Geographical factors (decreasing latitude and increasing longitude) were associated with a higher rate of IHF prescriptions, such that rates were higher in southern vs. northern regions, and in eastern compared with western regions. Controlling for longitude, physician density and markers of socioeconomic status, southern latitudes were associated with higher hypoallergenic formulae prescription rates [β, −147.98; 95% confidence interval (CI) = −281.83 to −14.14; p = 0.03]. Controlling for latitude, physician density and markers of socioeconomic status, eastern longitudes were also associated with higher hypoallergenic formulae prescription rates (β, 89.69; 95% CI = 2.90–176.49; p = 0.04). Among young children, hypoallergenic formula prescription rates are more common in the southern and eastern regions of Australia. These data provide support for a possible role of sun exposure/vitamin D status (amongst other potential factors) in the pathogenesis of food allergy.
Impact of the post‐World War II generation on intensive care needs in Norway
Authors: LAAKE J. H. , DYBWIK K. , FLAATTEN H. K. , FONNELAND I.‐L. , KVÅLE R. , STRAND K.
Published: November 2009

Background: A high birth rate during the first two decades following World War II has increased the proportion of elderly people in present‐day society and, consequently, the demand for health‐care services. The impact on intensive care services may become dramatic because the age distribution of critically ill patients is skewed towards the elderly. We have used registry data and population statistics to forecast the demand for intensive care services in Norway up until the year 2025.

Methods: Data collected by the Norwegian intensive care registry (NIR), showing the age distribution in Norwegian intensive care units (ICU) during the years 2006 and 2007, were used with three different Norwegian prognostic models of population growth for the years 2008–2025 to compute the expected increase in intensive care unit bed‐days (ICU bed‐days).

Results: The elderly were overrepresented in Norwegian ICUs in 2006–2007, with patients from 60 to 79 years of age occupying 44% of ICU bed‐days. Population growth from 2008 to 2025 was estimated to be from 11.1 to 26.4%, depending on the model used. Growth will be much larger in the age group 60–79 years. Other factors kept unchanged, this will result in an increase in the need for intensive care (ICU bed‐days) of between 26.1 and 36.9%.

Conclusion: The demand for intensive care beds will increase markedly in Norwegian hospitals in the near future. This will have serious implications for the planning of infrastructure, education of health care personnel, as well as financing of our health care system.
Impact of chronic advanced aortic regurgitation on the perioperative outcome of noncardiac surgery
Authors: LAI H.‐C. , LAI H.‐C. , LEE W.‐L. , WANG K.‐Y. , TING C.‐T. , HUNG C.‐J. , LIU T.‐J.
Published: November 2009

Background: Whether and how chronic advanced aortic regurgitation (AR) impacts the perioperative outcome of noncardiac surgery remains unclear.

Methods: From November 1999 to December 2006, all patients undergoing noncardiac operations and ever examined by echocardiography within the last 6 months were screened. Those with chronic moderate–severe or severe AR were enrolled, provided they were not already trachea‐intubated or aortic valve operated, and the surgery was not performed under local anesthesia. Case‐matched subjects without significant AR served as controls. The perioperative outcomes of these patients were analyzed, and independent prognostic correlates were investigated by multivariate logistic regression analysis.

Results: A total of 167 patients (male 131, mean age of 75 years) complying with the enrollment criteria were studied. Compared with the other 167 case‐matched control peers, patients with advanced AR risked potential hazards of serious hemodynamic instability (0.6%) and circulatory collapse (1.2%) during surgery despite the similar incidence of overall cardiac adverse events, and were further distressed with more cardiopulmonary complications (16.2% vs. 5.4%, P=0.003) and in‐hospital deaths (9% vs. 1.8%, P=0.008) post‐operatively. Multivariate regression analysis confirmed the correlation of advanced AR with perioperative mortality, and identified depressed left ventricular function, renal dysfunction, high surgical risk, and lack of cardiac medication as predictors of in‐hospital death.

Conclusion: Chronic advanced AR complicates the perioperative outcome of noncardiac surgery as reflected by frequent cardiopulmonary morbidities and in‐hospital deaths, especially when coexisting with specified high‐risk clinical and surgical characteristics.
Ace gene dosage influences the development of renovascular hypertension
Authors: Ceroni Alexandre , Moreira Edson D , Mostarda Cristiano T , Silva Gustavo JJ , Krieger Eduardo M , Irigoyen Maria C
Published: November 2009

1. Clinical and experimental evidence highlights the importance of the renin–angiotensin system in renovascular hypertension. Furthermore, genetic factors affecting angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) could influence the development of renovascular hypertension.

2. To test the effect of small gene perturbations on the development of renovascular hypertension, mice harbouring two or three copies of the Ace gene were submitted to 4 weeks of two‐kidney, one‐clip (2K1C) hypertension. Blood pressure (BP), cardiac hypertrophy, baroreflex sensitivity and blood pressure and heart rate variability were assessed and compared between the different groups.

3. The increase in BP induced by 2K1C was higher in mice with three copies of the Ace gene compared with mice with only two copies (46 vs 23 mmHg, respectively). Moreover, there was a 3.8‐fold increase in the slope of the left ventricle mass/BP relationship in mice with three copies of the Ace gene. Micewith three copies of the Ace gene exhibited greater increases in cardiac and serum ACE activity than mice with only two copies of the gene. Both baroreflex bradycardia and tachycardia were significantly depressed in mice with three copies of the Ace gene after induction of 2K1C hypertension. The variance in basal systolic BP was greater in mice with three copies of the Ace gene after 2K1C hypertension compared with those with only two copies of the gene (106 vs 54%, respectively). In addition, the low‐frequency component of the pulse interval was higher mice with three copies of the Ace gene after 2K1C hypertension compared with those with only two (168 vs 86%, respectively). Finally, in mice with three copies of the Ace gene, renovascular hypertension induced a 6.1‐fold increase in the sympathovagal balance compared with a 3.2‐fold increase in mice with only two copies of the gene.

4. Collectively, these data provide direct evidence that small genetic disturbances in ACE levels per se have an influence on haemodynamic, cardiac mass and autonomic nervous system responses in mice under pathological perturbation.
Role of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system for control of arterial blood pressure following moderate deficit in total body sodium: Balance studies in freely moving dogs
Authors: Seeliger Erdmann , Lunenburg Till , Ladwig Mechthild , Reinhardt H Wolfgang
Published: November 2009

1. Total body sodium (TBS) is known as major determinant of arterial blood pressure (ABP) when TBS is increased, but little is known about ABP control following a deficit in TBS. The renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) controls ABP by controlling TBS via the Na‐retaining effects of angiotensin (Ang) II and aldosterone, as well as through the vasoconstrictor action of AngII. In the present study, we investigated the role of RAAS elements in ABP control following moderate TBS deficit.

2. Balance studies of 4 days duration were performed in dogs. On Day 1, TBS was reduced by peritoneal dialysis (−3.5 mmol/kg bodyweight). On Days 1 and 2, dogs were on low Na intake (LSI; 0.5 mmol Na/kg bodyweight), whereas on Days 3 and 4 dogs were on high Na intake (HSI; 5.5 mmol Na/kg). In Protocol 1, the RAAS was left intact; in Protocol 2, angiotensin‐converting enzyme was inhibited by infusion of the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor captopril (7 μg/kg per min) on Days 2–4; and in Protocol 3, in addition to ACE inhibition (ACE‐I), mineralocorticoid receptors (MR) were blocked using 300 mg, p.o., spironolactone twice daily on Days 2–4.

3. During LSI, the TBS deficit could not be replenished and osmoregulation resulted in a deficit in total body water (TBW) of −12 to −15 mL/kg bodyweight. The RAAS was massively stimulated. In dogs with an intact RAAS, ABP did not decrease despite the TBW deficit. This was achieved by the vasoconstrictor action of AngII. At the same TBW deficit, ACE‐I significantly lowered ABP by approximately 17 mmHg. In dogs with an intact RAAS, the deficit in TBS and TBW was immediately replenished when enough Na was offered (HSI). Even during ACE‐I, the deficit was almost replenished. This was accomplished by AngII‐independent stimulation of aldosterone release. Arterial blood pressure increased in parallel with TBW. With additional blockade of MR, the deficit was not replenished and ABP remained reduced.

4. These results indicate that with a moderate deficit in TBS and TBW, the RAAS is the major factor controlling ABP. First, the vasoconstrictive action of AngII fully compensates for the volume deficit. Second, stimulation of both renin release (and, thus, AngII and aldosterone) and aldosterone release independent of AngII is crucial for the restoration of TBS and TBW, thus controlling ABP.
Efficacy of butyrate analogues in HT‐29 cancer cells
Authors: Ooi Cheng C , Good Norm M , Williams Desmond B , Lewanowitsch Tanya , Cosgrove Leah J , Lockett Trevor J , Head Richard J
Published: November 2009

1. Butyrate is a well known product of starch fermentation by colonic bacteria and is of interest owing to its ability to induce in vitro apoptosis and cell differentiation, as well as to inhibit cell growth in colorectal and other cancer cells. Synthetic analogues of butyrate may also possess cellular activities in a variety of cultured cells. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the effects of butyrate analogues on apoptosis, proliferation and histone deacetylase (HDAC) activity in HT‐29 colorectal cancer cells. In addition, the effects of these analogues on lactate dehydrogenase leakage, as a measure of non‐specific cytotoxicity, were evaluated in HT‐29 cells.

2. Of the 26 analogues examined, four (propionate, 4‐benzoylbutyrate, 4‐(4‐aminophenyl)butyrate and benzyloxyacetate) exhibited comparable effects to butyrate. Interestingly, no activity was noted for compounds carrying amino, hydroxyl or methyl substitutions at the 2‐, 3‐ or 4‐position of the aliphatic moiety of butyrate.

3. In conclusion, chemical changes to the structure of butyrate can significantly modify the biological activity assayed in HT‐29 colorectal cancer cells in vitro.
Atorvastatin increases expression of low‐density lipoprotein receptor mRNA in human circulating mononuclear cells
Authors: Pocathikorn Anothai , Taylor Roger R , Mamotte Cyril DS
Published: November 2009

1. 3‐Hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) inhibitors, or statins, are commonly used to lower plasma cholesterol levels. HMGCR and the low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) receptor (LDLR) are of central importance to cholesterol homeostasis and yet there is a paucity of data on the effect of statins on the regulation of the LDLR and HMGCR in humans.

2. In the present study, we examined the effect of atorvastatin on the expression of HMGCR, LDLR and LDLR‐related protein (LRP) mRNA in circulating mononuclear cells. Twelve human volunteers were treated with atorvastatin, 20 mg/day for 4 weeks.

3. Atorvastatin decreased plasma total and LDL–cholesterol by 29% (P < 0.0001) and 41% (P < 0.001), respectively, and increased LDLR mRNA abundance, in absolute terms, by 35% (P < 0.001) and 31% (P < 0.0001) and 37% (P = 0.01) relative to reference GAPDH and β‐actin mRNA, respectively. In contrast, atorvastatin had no significant effect on LRP or HMGCR mRNA levels.

4. The increase in LDLR mRNA in circulating mononuclear cells agrees with the few human studies conducted, as well as with in vitro and animal studies, whereas the unchanged HMGCR mRNA is consistent with the hepatic specificity of atorvastatin. The present study firmly documents an increase in LDLR mRNA levels in response to statin administration in normal humans.
High‐density lipoprotein: A potent inhibitor of inflammation
Authors: Murphy Andrew J , Woollard Kevin J
Published: November 2009

1. Inflammation is an important process, driving the progression of atherosclerosis. Stemming inflammation may be a mechanism to inhibit the progression of this disease.

2. High‐density lipoprotein (HDL), a particle inversely related to cardiovascular disease, has been described as having a number of anti‐inflammatory functions. It has been shown that HDL inhibits endothelial inflammation in both in vitro and in vivo models, reducing the expression of key cell adhesion molecules. In addition, HDL has been shown to have an effect on the coagulation pathway by inhibiting platelet activation and reducing thrombus formation. Furthermore, by reducing the activation of leucocytes, HDL can inhibit leucocyte recruitment to the endothelium.

3. High‐density lipoprotein infusion studies conducted in patients with inflammatory diseases have shown that acute treatment with HDL can effectively inhibit inflammation in vivo. Thus, HDL has been proven to be a potent inhibitor of inflammation, acting on a number of pathways, and this may suggest that HDL could be applied as an anti‐inflammatory molecule for a number of diseases.

4. The present review highlights these important studies and reviews data on the anti‐inflammatory effects of HDL from in vitro and in vivo studies, in both humans and animal models of atherosclerosis and inflammatory‐related diseases.
Meta‐analysis of the role of high‐dose statins administered prior to percutaneous coronary intervention in reducing major adverse cardiac events in patients with coronary artery disease
Authors: Hao Pan‐Pan , Chen Yu‐Guo , Wang Jia‐Li , Ji Wen‐Qing , Xue Li , Liu Xiang‐Hong , Wang Xing‐Li , Zhang Yun
Published: November 2009

1. There is considerable evidence regarding the efficacy of statins for the primary and secondary prevention of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, due to lack of sufficient evidence, there is still doubt whether high‐dose statin therapy prior to percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) is beneficial. In the present study, we performed a meta‐analysis to evaluate the effect of preoperative high‐dose statin therapy on the incidence of major adverse cardiac events (MACE) after successful PCI.

2. Trials were retrieved through Medline (1980–2009) and the reference files limited to English‐language articles. Data were abstracted using a standardized protocol and a meta‐analysis was performed.

3. Five studies of a total 1789 patients with CAD qualified for analysis. Administration of high‐dose statins in CAD patients before PCI was associated with a significant reduction in MACE 30 days after the procedure. The incidence of MACE in the high‐dose statin group (6.98%) was significantly lower than that in the placebo group (14.77%), with an odds ratio (OR) of 0.43 (95% confidence interval (CI) 0.31–0.59; P < 0.00001). The incidence of post‐PCI increases in creatine kinase MB in the high‐dose statin and placebo groups was 9.20%vs 18.83%, respectively (OR 0.43; 95% CI 0.33–0.58; P < 0.00001), whereas the incidence of increases in troponin I was 30.13%vs 44.53%, respectively (OR 0.53; 95% CI 0.43–0.67; P < 0.00001), respectively.

4. In conclusion, high‐dose statin therapy before PCI provides a significant benefit over placebo in preventing post‐PCI MACE. Findings from the present analysis strongly support a strategy of routine loading of high‐dose statins before interventional therapy.
Prenatal alcohol exposure: Implications for cardiovascular function in the fetus and beyond
Authors: Parkington Helena C , Coleman Harold A , Wintour E Marelyn , Tare Marianne
Published: November 2009

1. The effects of heavy maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy on cognitive and behavioural performance and craniofacial malformations in the offspring have been studied extensively. In contrast, the impact of maternal alcohol intake on the cardiovascular system of the offspring and the effects of more modest consumption have received very scant consideration.

2. Adverse conditions in the pre‐ and neonatal periods can have a profound legacy on offspring health, including the risk of cardiovascular disease. Prenatal alcohol exposure can modulate vascular reactivity, including endothelial and smooth muscle function.

3. Other effects of prenatal alcohol exposure are emerging, including impairment of nephrogenesis and kidney function and increased arterial stiffness. The impact of even modest prenatal alcohol exposure on cardiovascular health in the offspring remains to be determined.

4. It is envisaged that the culmination of reduced renal and vascular capacity will render the offspring more vulnerable to cardiovascular disease with ageing and exposure to additional insults and lifestyle factors.
Rescue therapy with high‐dose oral phenobarbitone loading for refractory status epilepticus
Authors: Wilmshurst Jo M , Van Der Walt Jan‐Stefan , Ackermann Sally , Karlsson Mats O , Blockman Marc
Published: November 2009

Aim:  Parenteral phenobarbitone was unavailable in South Africa from 2005 to 2006. This study aimed to establish the effectiveness of enteral phenobarbitone in the management of childhood status epilepticus.

Method:  Patients in status epilepticus (December 2005–June 2006) received 20 mg/kg phenobarbitone via nasogastric tube in addition to standard status interventions (benzodiazepine boluses, phenytoin infusion). Phenobarbitone concentrations were taken post loading. Phenobarbitone population pharmacokinetics was analysed using non‐linear mixed effects modelling.

Results:  Sixteen patients (7 female, 9 male) were assessed, median age 5 months (range 9 days–168 months). Nine patients received 20 mg/kg; the maximum total dosage administered was 80 mg/kg with a concentration of 283 µmol/L. The typical population value of the volume of distribution was 1.2 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.8–1.6) L/kg with interindividual variability (as coefficient of variation) of 53% (95% CI, 9–74%). Seizure control was documented within 1 h (n= 8), 11/2 h (n= 1), 3 h (n= 1) and 4 h (n= 5) following enteral phenobarbitone loading. No adverse effects were apparent from the enteral phenobarbitone administration.

Conclusion:  Patients tolerated enteral loading with phenobarbitone. A single enteral loading dose resulted in adequate phenobarbitone exposure. This practice was a safe intervention for centres lacking parenteral phenobarbitone. Therapeutic concentrations and seizure control after enteral loading suggested a role for enteral phenobarbitone in the management of acute status epilepticus as well as prophylaxis against seizure recurrence.
Treating infant sleep disturbance: Does maternal mood impact upon effectiveness?
Authors: Črnčec Rudi , Cooper Elizabeth , Matthey Stephen
Published: November 2009

Aim:  To explore whether mild‐to‐moderate maternal depression affects the effectiveness of a behavioural approach to treating infant sleep disturbance (ISD).

Methods:  The health records of 90 mothers attending an inpatient parenting service for management of their 5–12‐month‐old infant's sleep difficulties were examined. These records contained detailed, nurse‐completed, 24‐hour behaviour charts of infant sleeping and crying. Participants were allocated to the depression group based on Edinburgh Depression Scale score and/or review of mental health assessment notes.

Results:  There were no differences between infants of mothers with (n= 39) or without (n= 51) depression on either (i) the severity of their initial sleeping difficulty, or (ii) their response to behavioural treatment. Both groups showed significant improvements over the 5‐day stay on all sleep variables observed, including number of night wakings, time to fall asleep, time spent crying at night and total time slept at night.

Conclusions:  Mild‐to‐moderate maternal depression does not appear to attenuate ISD behavioural treatment outcomes. Given ISD treatment has been shown to improve maternal mood, the results of this study argue against recommendations initially to address maternal mood in isolation when managing ISD.
Respiratory syncytial virus infections in Central Australia
Authors: Dede Apakasiamaka , Isaacs David , Torzillo Paul J , Wakerman John , Roseby Rob , Fahy Rose , Clothier Tors , White Andrew , Kitto Paula
Published: November 2009

Background:  Little is known about the epidemiology of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in arid desert regions and in the Aboriginal population. We describe the seasonality and epidemiology of RSV infection in Central Australia, an arid area with a large Aboriginal population.

Methods:  Five‐year retrospective study from 2000 through 2004 of children less than 2 years old admitted to Alice Springs Hospital with documented RSV infection.

Results:  RSV infection was documented in 173 children <2 years old admitted over a 5‐year period, 165 community‐acquired and 8 nosocomial. The annual incidence rate of community‐acquired RSV infection in hospitalised Central Australian children <2 years old was 20.4 per 1000. The rate in Aboriginal children of 29.6 per 1000 children was significantly greater than in non‐Aboriginal children of 10.9 per 1000 (P < 0.0001). Associated risk factors were common; 52% of infected children had at least one other comorbidity. Younger children had more severe illness and longer duration of hospital stay. RSV‐related illness peaked in winter but infections occurred throughout the year, and the winter predominance was less marked than in temperate climates.

Conclusions:  In the arid, desert region of Central Australia, RSV infection occurs throughout the year, but is more frequent in winter and more common in Aboriginal children. These data are important for understanding RSV epidemiology in desert regions, and for planning active or passive RSV immunoprophylaxis in these and other similar populations.
Surveillance and risk factors of norovirus gastroenteritis among children in a southern city of China in the fall–winter seasons of 2003–2006
Authors: Dai Ying‐Chun , Xia Ming , Zhan Hui‐Chun , Liu Yi , Li Jian‐Dong , Chen Qing , Yu Shou‐Yi , Nie Jun , Farkas Tibor , Jiang Xi
Published: November 2009

Aim:  Noroviruses (NoVs) are an important cause of acute gastroenteritis but knowledge on the disease burden and epidemiology in children in the developing countries remains limited. In this study, we performed a surveillance of NoV gastroenteritis in children of China to address some of the questions.

Methods:  Faecal specimens from children (<5 years of age) at outpatient clinics of the Nan Fang Hospital in Guangzhou, China during the fall–winter seasons in 2003–2006 were tested for rotaviruses (RVs) and NoVs. A questionnaire on clinical records and hygiene habits was collected from each patient.

Results:  Among 957 stool specimens tested, 488 (51%) specimens were positive for RVs. NoVs were detected in 112 (24%) of the 469 RV negative specimens. The Genogroup II (GII), particularly GII‐4, viruses were predominant. No significant difference of clinical symptoms, hospitalisation and patient care expenses were found between children infected with NoVs and RVs. Consumption of uncooked food is a risk for NoV infection. Contact with diarrhoea patients is a suspected risk factor. Cutting nails frequently is a protective factor against NoV infection.

Conclusions:  NoVs are an important cause of acute gastroenteritis in children which need special attention of patient care at the clinics in addition to RVs. The awareness of those risk factors may help future disease control and prevention.
The effect of a PEEP valve on a Laerdal neonatal self‐inflating resuscitation bag
Authors: Morley Colin J , Dawson Jennifer A , Stewart Michael J , Hussain Farhat , Davis Peter G
Published: November 2009

Background:  Self‐inflating bags are used to provide ventilation during neonatal resuscitation. However, they cannot provide positive end expiratory pressure (PEEP) unless a PEEP valve is attached. The ability of Laerdal neonatal self‐inflating bags fitted with PEEP valves to reliably deliver PEEP is unclear. The aim of this study was to measure the delivered PEEP at different set PEEP levels and inflation rates.

Methods:  We connected disposable and non‐disposable 240 mL Laerdal self‐inflating resuscitation bags fitted with PEEP valves to a leak‐free test lung. We measured PEEP delivered with the valve set at 5, 7 and 10 cm H2O whilst inflating the test lung at rates of 20, 40 and 60 min. Studies were done with 8 L/min of gas flow and with no gas flow.

Results:  The PEEP delivered was close to the set level immediately after inflation but declined rapidly between inflations. The mean PEEP was higher with faster ventilation rates. When PEEP was set at 7 cm H2O, using a non‐disposable bag, and an inflation rate of 60/min the mean (SD) PEEP was 5.4 (0.19) cm H2O. The PEEP delivered was unrelated to the gas flow into the device.

Conclusion:  The 240 mL Laerdal self‐inflating bag with a PEEP valve delivers PEEP that loses pressure quickly. The level of PEEP delivered is less than that set, particularly at rates below 40/min.
Nerve growth factor mediated SH2‐Bβ/Akt signal pathway activated in allergic airway challenge in mice
Authors: LIU Yuli , ZHANG Baohui , ZHANG Shuna , QI Jinping , ZHANG Zhenghong , LIU Libo , FANG Xiubin
Published: November 2009

Background and objective: Nerve growth factor (NGF) contributes to airway inflammation and bronchoconstriction in allergic asthma. The Src homology 2β/serine/threonine kinase (SH2‐Bβ/Akt) pathway is one of the avenues through which NGF regulates the biological activity of pheochromocytoma (PC)12 cells. It has also been reported that NGF upregulates the expression of SH2‐Bβ in the lung tissue of asthmatic mice. The present study investigated the effects of NGF and SH2‐Bβ on Akt activation during allergic airway challenge.

Methods: BALB/c mice were sensitized and challenged with ovalbumin. The effects of NGF and SH2‐Bβ on Akt in allergic airway challenge were assessed by intravenously administering anti‐NGF antibody or a mutant of SH2‐Bβ (R555E) to these mice. Pulmonary histological changes were then assessed and the inflammatory cells in the BAL fluid (BALF) were counted. Additionally, phosphorylated Akt (p‐Akt) expression was determined by fluorescence microscopy, western blotting and quantitative RT‐PCR. Airway resistance was also measured using closed‐type body plethysmography.

Results: We observed p‐Akt overexpression in the lungs after allergen challenge by fluorescence microscopy, Western blotting and RT‐PCR, as compared with the control. However, after treatment with anti‐NGF or R555E, p‐Akt levels and allergen‐induced airway inflammation were reduced in comparison with those of allergen‐challenged mice. Anti‐NGF and R555E also decreased airway hyperresponsiveness caused by allergen challenge in response to methacholine (MCH).

Conclusions: These results suggest that SH2‐Bβ regulation of Akt partly participates in the NGF‐mediated development of allergic airway challenge.
CRP gene variation and risk of community‐acquired pneumonia
Authors: MUKAMAL Kenneth J. , PAI Jennifer K. , O'MEARA Ellen S. , TRACY Russell P. , PSATY Bruce M. , KULLER Lewis H. , NEWMAN Anne B. , YENDE Sachin , CURHAN Gary C. , SISCOVICK David S. , RIMM Eric B.
Published: November 2009

Background and objective:  CRP has several potentially antibacterial effects, and variation in the CRP gene is known to influence CRP levels. Whether this variation influences risk of infection, and hence whether CRP has anti‐infective activity in humans, is uncertain.

Methods:  We evaluated a series of haplotype‐tagging single nucleotide polymorphisms among 5374 individuals in the Cardiovascular Health Study, a cohort of older adults from four communities, who were followed for community‐acquired pneumonia for 12–13 years. Secondarily, we evaluated whether these polymorphisms varied among men in the Health Professionals Follow‐up Study who self‐reported pneumonia on biennial questionnaires.

Results:  There were 581 (507 white and 74 black) Cardiovascular Health Study participants with incident hospitalizations for pneumonia. No single nucleotide polymorphism or haplotypes were associated with risk among white Cardiovascular Health Study participants. Among black participants, the haplotype tagged by A790T was associated with lower risk of incident pneumonia (hazard ratio 0.5; 95% confidence interval: 0.3–0.9) and with higher CRP levels. In Health Professionals Follow‐up Study, a separate haplotype was associated with less frequent self‐reported pneumonia but not with circulating CRP levels.

Conclusions:  Some genetic variants in CRP may be associated with risk of pneumonia, but haplotypes associated with risk are variably associated with baseline CRP levels. If CRP is a relevant component of innate immunity in humans, the inducibility or tissue‐specificity of expression may be at least as important as chronic circulating levels.
Bronchoscopic features and bronchoscopic intervention for endobronchial hamartoma
Authors: KIM Su‐A. , UM Sang‐Won , SONG Jae‐Uk , JEON Kyeongman , KOH Won‐Jung , SUH Gee Young , Jung Man Pyo , KWON O. Jung , PARK Jong Heon , YI Chin A. , HAN Joungho , KIM Hojoong
Published: November 2009

Background and objective:  Bronchoscopic resection of endobronchial hamartomas has been reported to have a favourable outcome. This study describes the bronchoscopic features of endobronchial hamartoma and reports the clinical outcome of bronchoscopic intervention.

Methods:  A retrospective analysis was conducted of patients with histologically proven endobronchial hamartomas, diagnosed in the 10‐year period 1999–2009 to elucidate the clinical, radiological and bronchoscopic features of hamartoma and to describe the clinical outcomes.

Results:  Seventeen of the 135 patients with pulmonary hamartomas were diagnosed as having endobronchial hamartomas. CXR was abnormal in 11 of the 17 patients. On chest CT (n = 16), the median diameter of the lesion was 15.6 mm. Calcification and areas of focal fat in the lesion, the diagnostic CT findings of pulmonary hamartoma, were found in two of 16 (12.5%) patients. At bronchoscopy (n = 16), all tumours had a mass appearance and most were smooth surfaced round masses (50.0%) with 18.8% having a ‘stalk’. Bronchoscopic forceps biopsies were performed in 13 patients, which resulted in five patients (38.5%) being diagnosed with endobronchial hamartoma. Fifteen patients were treated with rigid or flexible bronchoscopic resection, one had lobectomy, and one had no intervention. No procedure‐related mortalities or late complications developed.

Conclusions:  Bronchoscopic intervention appears to be a safe and effective method to resect endobronchial hamartomas.
Primary seminoma of the prostate
Authors: Hashimoto Takeshi , Ohori Makoto , Sakamoto Noboru , Matsubayashi Jun , Izumi Miki , Tachibana Masaaki
Published: November 2009

A 54‐year‐old gentleman was suspected of having sarcoma of the prostate because of his low serum prostate‐specific antigen level (1.9 ng/mL) and an enlarged heterogeneous mass on computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging scans. Pathological examination of the prostate needle biopsy indicated seminoma, which was confirmed with immunohistochemical staining. There was no evidence of disease in other areas on physical examination or on radiographic tests. Therefore, we diagnosed the case as a primary seminoma of the prostate, which was consequently treated with a total of three courses of bleomycin, etoposide and cisplatin chemotherapy. Complete response was obtained on computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging and prostate needle re‐biopsy. To our knowledge, there have only been five cases of primary seminoma of the prostate reported.
Laparoscopic versus open radical cystectomy for the management of bladder cancer: Mid‐term oncological outcome
Authors: Ha U‐Syn , Kim Sung In , Kim Su Jin , Cho Hyuk‐Jin , Hong Sung‐Hoo , Lee Ji Youl , Kim Joon Chul , Kim Sae Woong , Hwang Tae‐Kon
Published: November 2009

Objective:  To compare the mid‐term oncological outcome of laparoscopic radical cystectomy (LRC) with those of open radical cystectomy (ORC).

Methods:  From June 2003 to February 2008, 36 LRCs were carried out at our institute for the treatment of bladder cancer. Clinical and oncological data were retrospectively analyzed. A match‐pair comparison with an historical series of 34 patients who were submitted to ORC between 1996 and 2003 was carried out.

Results:  Median follow‐up of the LRC group was 21 months (3–56 months). Pathological stage or grade was similar in the two groups. There was no significant difference between the LRC and ORC groups in terms of 3‐year overall (64.2% vs 72.6%, respectively; P = 0.682), cancer‐specific (73.0% vs 75.3%, respectively; P = 0.951), and recurrence‐free survival (70.5% vs 72.5%, respectively; P = 0.715) rates. In a subgroup analysis according to stage, there was also no significant difference in the 3‐year disease‐specific survival after LRC or ORC for organ‐confined (pT1 and pT2; 85.7% vs 83.9%, respectively; P = 0.256) or extravesical disease (pT3 and pT4; 73.3% vs 63.8%, respectively; P = 0.825).

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that LRC provides mid‐term oncological outcomes similar to those of ORC in the management of bladder cancer.
Counteractive biomass allocation responses to drought and damage in the perennial herb Convolvulus demissus
Authors: QUEZADA IVÁN M. , GIANOLI ERNESTO
Published: November 2009

Herbivory and water shortage are key ecological factors affecting plant performance. While plant compensatory responses to herbivory include reallocation of biomass from below‐ground to above‐ground structures, plant responses to reduced soil moisture involve increased biomass allocation to roots and a reduction in the number and size of leaves. In a greenhouse study we evaluated the effects of experimental drought and leaf damage on biomass allocation in Convolvulus demissus (Convolvulaceae), a perennial herb distributed in central Chile, where it experiences summer drought typical of Mediterranean ecosystems and defoliation by leaf beetles and livestock. The number of leaves and internode length were unaffected by the experimental treatments. The rest of plant traits showed interaction of effects. We detected that drought counteracted some plant responses to damage. Thus, only in the control watering environment was it observed that damaged plants produced more stems, even after correcting for main stem length (index of architecture). In the cases of shoot : root ratio, relative shoot biomass and relative root biomass we found that the damage treatment counteracted plant responses to drought. Thus, while undamaged plants under water shortage showed a significant increase in root relative biomass and a significant reduction in both shoot : root ratio and relative shoot biomass, none of these responses to drought was observed in damaged plants. Total plant biomass increased in response to simulated herbivory, apparently due to greater shoot size, and in response to drought, presumably due to greater root size. However, damaged plants under experimental drought had the same total biomass as control plants. Overall, our results showed counteractive biomass allocation responses to drought and damage in C. demissus. Further research must address the fitness consequences under field conditions of the patterns found. This would be of particular importance because both current and expected climatic trends for central Chile indicate increased aridity.
Influence of fire severity on stand development of Araucaria araucana–Nothofagus pumilio stands in the Andean cordillera of south‐central Chile
Authors: GONZÁLEZ MAURO E. , VEBLEN THOMAS T. , SIBOLD JASON S.
Published: November 2009

Fire is the prevalent disturbance in the Araucaria–Nothofagus forested landscape in south‐central Chile. Although both surface and stand‐replacing fires are known to characterize these ecosystems, the variability of fire severity in shaping forest structure has not previously been investigated in Araucaria–Nothofagus forests. Age structures of 16 stands, in which the ages of approximately 650 trees were determined, indicate that variability in fire severity and frequency is key to explaining the mosaic of forest patches across the Araucaria–Nothofagus landscape. High levels of tree mortality in moderate‐ to high‐severity fires followed by new establishment of Nothofagus pumilio typically result in stands characterized by one or two cohorts of this species. Large Araucaria trees are highly resistant to fire, and this species typically survives moderate‐ to high‐severity fires either as dispersed individuals or as small groups of multi‐aged trees. Small post‐fire cohorts of Araucaria may establish, depending on seed availability and the effects of subsequent fires. Araucaria's great longevity (often >700 years) and resistance to fire allow some individuals to survive fires that kill and then trigger new Nothofagus cohorts. Even in relatively mesic habitats, where fires are less frequent, the oldest Araucaria–Nothofagus pumilio stands originated after high‐severity fires. Overall, stand development patterns of subalpine Araucaria–N. pumilio forests are largely controlled by moderate‐ to high‐severity fires, and therefore tree regeneration dynamics is strongly dominated by a catastrophic regeneration mode.
Body size and extinction risk in Australian mammals: An information‐theoretic approach
Authors: CHISHOLM RYAN A. , TAYLOR ROBERT
Published: November 2009

The critical weight range (CWR) hypothesis for Australian mammals states that extinctions and declines have been concentrated in species with body mass between 35 g and 5.5 kg. The biological basis for this hypothesis is that species of intermediate size are disproportionately impacted by introduced predators. The CWR hypothesis has received support from several statistical studies over the past decade, although the evidence is weaker or non‐existent for certain groups such as mesic‐zone mammals and arboreal mammals. In this study, we employ an information‐theoretic model selection approach to gain further insights into the relationship between body mass and extinction risk in Australian mammals. We find evidence, consistent with the CWR hypothesis, that extinction risk peaks at intermediate body masses for marsupials, rodents and ground‐dwelling species, but not for arboreal species. In contrast to previous studies, we find that the CWR describes extinction patterns in the mesic zone as well as the arid zone. In the mesic zone, there is also a weaker tendency for large species above the CWR to be more vulnerable, consistent with extinction patterns on other continents. We find that a more biological plausible Gaussian distribution consistently fits the data better than the polynomial models that have been used in previous studies. Our results justify conservation programmes targeted at species within the CWR across Australia.
The impact of red howler monkey latrines on the distribution of main nutrients and on topsoil profiles in a tropical rain forest
Authors: DOS SANTOS NEVES NADIA , FEER FRANÇOIS , SALMON SANDRINE , CHATEIL CAROLE , PONGE JEAN‐FRANÇOIS
Published: November 2009

Scarcity of organic matter and nutrients in the topsoil is a typical feature of lowland primary tropical rain forests. However, clumped defecation by vertebrate herbivore troops and further dung beetle processing may contribute to locally improve soil biological activity and plant growth. We studied the impact of clumped defecation by the red howler monkey (Alouatta seniculus), a frugivorous primate, on the vertical distribution of topsoil (0–6 cm) main nutrients and microstructures in a tropical rain forest (French Guiana). Three latrines, where monkey troops regularly defecate, were sampled, together with adjoining controls for carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus and microscopic components. The vertical distribution of C and N was affected by clumped defecation: nutrients were mostly restricted to the top 2 cm in control areas while latrines exhibited homogeneously distributed C and N, resulting in higher C and N content below 2 cm. No marked effect of defecation was registered on Olsen P. A small although significant increase in pH (0.1–0.3 pH units) and a marked increase in soil respiration (×1.5–2.5) were registered in latrines. Soil microstructures were studied by the small‐volume method. Variation according to depth, site and clumped defecation was analysed by Redundancy Analysis. The three latrines were characterized by an increase in root‐penetrated mineral‐organic assemblages, mainly composed of recent and old earthworm faeces. The local stimulation of plant roots, microbial and earthworm activity was prominent, together with an increase in soil fertility. Consequences for the regeneration of tropical rain forests in the Amazonian basin were discussed, in the light of existing knowledge.