bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioethics education for practicing nurses in Taiwan: Confucian-western clash
Authors: Yang Wan-Ping , Chen Ching-Huey , Chao Co-Shi Chantal , Lai Wei-Shu
Published: July 2010

To understand the gaps between current bioethics education and the requirements of practicing nurses, a semistructured questionnaire was used to invite the directors of nursing departments at all 82 teaching hospitals in Taiwan to participate in this survey. The response rate was 64.6%. Through content analysis we obtained information about previous bioethical training, required themes and content, recommended teaching strategies, and difficulties with education and its application. The results suggest that Taiwanese nursing personnel need to be instilled with both self-cultivation of morality and mental cultivation to acquire nursing virtues and the right attitudes toward bioethical issues. Good communication skills to prevent damage to the harmonious relationships between patients, their families and medical team members, policies that support the provision of systematic formal knowledge of ethics, small group training, and clarification of values were also shown to be important in bioethics education.
School Nurses Save Lives
Authors: Malone Susan Kohl , Bergren Martha Dewey
Published: July 2010

Vigilance has been central to nursing practice since Florence Nightingale. Often, the nurse’s work of surveillance goes unnoticed and the public never recognizes the value of the nurse’s work. The 1999 Institute of Medicine report on hospital deaths due to preventable errors has lifted the veil shrouding professional vigilance. But how to measure vigilance remained elusive, until the concept, failure to rescue (FTR), was proposed. FTR has taken a prominent role in health care since its adoption as a patient safety indicator by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ) and as a measure for nursing performance in acute care by the National Quality Forum (NQF). However, its applicability to school nursing has been unexplored. This article provides an initial review of the literature and an analysis of anecdotal stories and media accounts that illustrate professional vigilance in school nursing practice.
The Epistemics of Information
Authors: Cetina Karin Knorr
Published: July 2010

This article explores the potential of a consumption model and consumption thinking for conceptualizing the epistemics of financial information. The argument rests on three characteristics of information knowledge. The first pertains to the nature and construction of reality to which information knowledge refers. That reality, this article argues, is not similar to the one most natural sciences assume: it is fluid and ever changing and does not conform to the stable mechanisms and patterns that we perceive to be present in nature. The second characteristic is that knowledge strategies in this area of information tend not to correspond to the representational procedures we are familiar with in natural science. The article illustrates how representation becomes emptied out and proxy measurements and other strategies take its place. The third characteristic of financial information processes is that they creatively destroy knowledge — by absorbing knowledge into other objects, revising it without end, or disseminating it until it loses value. This, too, points to epistemic consumption.
Nonredundant role of CCRL2 in lung dendritic cell trafficking
Authors: Otero Karel , Vecchi Annunciata , Hirsch Emilio , Kearley Jennifer , Vermi William , Del Prete Annalisa , Gonzalvo-Feo Safiyè , Garlanda Cecilia , Azzolino Ornella , Salogni Laura , Lloyd Clare M. , Facchetti Fabio , Mantovani Alberto , Sozzani Silvano
Published: July 2010

Chemokine CC motif receptor-like 2 (CCRL2) is a heptahelic transmembrane receptor that shows the highest degree of homology with CCR1, an inflammatory chemokine receptor. CCRL2 mRNA was rapidly (30 minutes) and transiently (2-4 hours) regulated during dendritic cell (DC) maturation. Protein expression paralleled RNA regulation. In vivo, CCRL2 was expressed by activated DC and macrophages, but not by eosinophils and T cells. CCRL2−/− mice showed normal recruitment of circulating DC into the lung, but a defective trafficking of antigen-loaded lung DC to mediastinal lymph nodes. This defect was associated to a reduction in lymph node cellularity and reduced priming of T helper cell 2 response. CCRL2−/− mice were protected in a model of ovalbumin-induced airway inflammation, with reduced leukocyte recruitment in the BAL (eosinophils and mononuclear cells) and reduced production of the T helper cell 2 cytokines, interleukin-4 and -5, and chemokines CCL11 and CCL17. The central role of CCRL2 deficiency in DC was supported by the fact that adoptive transfer of CCRL2−/− antigen-loaded DC in wild-type animals recapitulated the phenotype observed in knockout mice. These data show a nonredundant role of CCRL2 in lung DC trafficking and propose a role for this receptor in the control of excessive airway inflammatory responses.
Oligo-guanosine nucleotide induces neuropilin-1 internalization in endothelial cells and inhibits angiogenesis
Authors: Narazaki Masashi , Segarra Marta , Hou Xu , Tanaka Toshio , Li Xuri , Tosato Giovanna
Published: July 2010

Ligand interaction with cognate cell-surface receptor often promotes receptor internalization, protecting cells from prolonged or excessive signaling from extracellular ligands. Compounds that induce internalization of surface receptors prevent ligand binding to cognate cell-surface receptors serving as inhibitors. Here, we show that synthetic polyriboguanosine (poly G) and oligo-deoxyriboguanosine (oligo G) reduce endothelial levels of surface neuropilin-1 (NRP1), a receptor shared by semaphorin 3A and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), which plays critical roles in angiogenesis. Oligo G also reduces levels of cell-surface scavenger receptor expressed by endothelial cells I (SREC-I), but not levels of NRP2, gp130, CD31, VEGFR-1, or VEGFR-2. Poly or oligo A, T, and C do not promote NRP1 or SREC-I internalization. We find that oligo G binds to NRP1 with high affinity (Kd:1.3 ± 0.16nM), bridges the extracellular domain of NRP1 to that of SREC-I, and induces coordinate internalization of NRP1 and SREC-I. In vitro, oligo G blocks the binding and function of VEGF165 in endothelial cells. In vivo, intravitreal administration of oligo G reduces choroidal neovascularization in mice. These results demonstrate that synthetic oligo G is an inhibitor of pathologic angiogenenesis that reduces cell-surface levels and function of NRP1 acting as an internalization inducer.
Adenovirus F protein as a delivery vehicle for botulinum B
Authors: Clapp Beata , Golden Sarah , Maddaloni Massimo , Staats Herman F , Pascual David W
Published: July 2010

Background

Immunization with recombinant carboxyl-terminal domain of the heavy chain (Hc domain) of botulinum neurotoxin (BoNT) stimulates protective immunity against native BoNT challenge. Most studies developing a botulism vaccine have focused on the whole Hc; however, since the principal protective epitopes are located within β-trefoil domain (Hcβtre), we hypothesize that immunization with the Hcβtre domain is sufficient to confer protective immunity. In addition, enhancing its uptake subsequent to nasal delivery prompted development of an alternative vaccine strategy, and we hypothesize that the addition of targeting moiety adenovirus 2 fiber protein (Ad2F) may enhance such uptake during vaccination.

Results

The Hcβtre serotype B immunogen was genetically fused to Ad2F (Hcβtre/B-Ad2F), and its immunogenicity was tested in mice. In combination with the mucosal adjuvant, cholera toxin (CT), enhanced mucosal IgA and serum IgG Ab titers were induced by nasal Hcβtre-Ad2F relative to Hcβtre alone; however, similar Ab titers were obtained upon intramuscular immunization. These BoNT/B-specific Abs induced by nasal immunization were generally supported in large part by Th2 cells, as opposed to Hcβtre-immunized mice that showed more mixed Th1 and Th2 cells. Using a mouse neutralization assay, sera from animals immunized with Hcβtre and Hcβtre-Ad2F protected mice against 2.0 LD50.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that Hcβtre-based immunogens are highly immunogenic, especially when genetically fused to Ad2F, and Ad2F can be exploited as a vaccine delivery platform to the mucosa.
Lineage analysis of early and advanced tubular adenocarcinomas of the stomach: continuous or discontinuous?
Authors: Nakayama Takahisa , Ling Zhi-Qiang , Mukaisho Ken-ichi , Hattori Takanori , Sugihara Hiroyuki
Published: July 2010

Background

Eradication of early gastric carcinoma (GC) is thought to contribute to reduction in the mortality of GC, given that most of the early GCs progress to the advanced GCs. However, early GC is alternatively considered a dormant variant of GC, and it infrequently progresses to advanced GC. The aim of this study was to clarify the extent of overlap of genetic lineages between early and advanced tubular adenocarcinomas (TUBs) of the stomach.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining for p53 was performed using 28 surgically resected stomachs with 13 intramucosal and 15 invasive TUBs. By chromosome- and array-based comparative genomic hybridization (CGH), genomic copy number constitution was compared between the mucosal and invasive parts of the invasive TUBs and between the mucosal parts of the invasive and intramucosal TUBs, using 25 and 22 TUBs, respectively. TP53 mutation in exons 5-8 was examined in 20 TUBs.

Results

Chromosomal CGH revealed that 4q+ and 11q+ were more common in advanced and early TUBs, respectively, whereas copy number changes in 8q and 17p showed no significant differences between early and advanced TUBs. However, array CGH revealed that, of the 13 intramucosal TUBs examined, loss of MYC (MYC-) and gain of TP53 (TP53+) was detected in 9 TUBs and MYC+ and/or TP53- was detected in 3 TUBs. Of the mucosal samples of 9 invasive TUBs, 7 showed MYC-/TP53+ and none showed MYC+ and/or TP53-. Of the 9 samples from the invasive parts, 1 (from submucosal cancers) showed MYC-/TP53+ and 6 (1 from submucosal and 5 from advanced cancers) showed MYC+ and/or TP53-. The latter 6 tumours commonly showed a mutant pattern (diffuse or null) in p53 immunohistochemistry, and 4 of the 6 tumours assessable for TP53 sequence analysis revealed mutations. The overall array CGH pattern indicated that, between the mucosal and invasive parts, genetic lineage was found discontinuous in 5 advanced cancers and continuous in 3 submucosal cancers.

Conclusions

Genetic lineages often differed between early and advanced TUBs. MYC-/TP53+ and MYC + and/or TP53- may be the signatures of dormant and aggressive TUBs, respectively, in the stomach.
The switch from conventional to atypical antipsychotic treatment should not be based exclusively on the presence of cognitive deficits. A pilot study in individuals with schizophrenia
Authors: Selva-Vera Gabriel , Balanzá-Martínez Vicent , Salazar-Fraile José , Sánchez-Moreno José , Martinez-Aran Anabel , Correa Patricia , Vieta Eduard , Tabarés-Seisdedos Rafael
Published: July 2010

Background

Atypical antipsychotics provide better control of the negative and affective symptoms of schizophrenia when compared with conventional neuroleptics; nevertheless, their heightened ability to improve cognitive dysfunction remains a matter of debate. This study aimed to examine the changes in cognition associated with long-term antipsychotic treatment and to evaluate the effect of the type of antipsychotic (conventional versus novel antipsychotic drugs) on cognitive performance over time.

Methods

In this naturalistic study, we used a comprehensive neuropsychological battery of tests to assess a sample of schizophrenia patients taking either conventional (n = 13) or novel antipsychotics (n = 26) at baseline and at two years after.

Results

Continuous antipsychotic treatment regardless of class was associated with improvement on verbal fluency, executive functions, and visual and verbal memory. Patients taking atypical antipsychotics did not show greater cognitive enhancement over two years than patients taking conventional antipsychotics.

Conclusions

Although long-term antipsychotic treatment slightly improved cognitive function, the switch from conventional to atypical antipsychotic treatment should not be based exclusively on the presence of these cognitive deficits.
Impact of discontinuity in health insurance on resource utilization
Authors: Banerjee Ritesh , Ziegenfuss Jeanette Y , Shah Nilay D
Published: July 2010

Background

This study sought to describe the incidence of transitions into and out of Medicaid, characterize the populations that transition and determine if health insurance instability is associated with changes in healthcare utilization.

Methods

2000-2004 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey (MEPS) was used to identify adults enrolled in Medicaid at any time during the survey period (n = 6,247). We estimate both static and dynamic panel data models to examine the effect of health insurance instability on health care resource utilization.

Results

We find that, after controlling for observed factors like employment and health status, and after specifying a dynamic model that attempts to capture time-dependent unobserved effects, individuals who have multiple transitions into and out of Medicaid have higher emergency room utilization, more office visits, more hospitalizations, and refill their prescriptions less often.

Conclusions

Individuals with more than one transition in health insurance status over the study period were likely to have higher health care utilization than individuals with one or fewer transitions. If these effects are causal, in addition to individual benefits, there are potentially large benefits for Medicaid programs from reducing avoidable insurance instability. These results suggest the importance of including provisions to facilitate continuous enrollment in public programs as the United States pursues health reform.
Regulation of apoptosis and priming of neutrophil oxidative burst by diisopropyl fluorophosphate
Authors: Tsang Jennifer LY , Parodo Jean C , Marshall John C
Published: July 2010

Background

Diisopropyl fluorophosphate (DFP) is a serine protease inhibitor that is widely used as an inhibitor of endogenous proteases inin vitroneutrophil studies. Its effects on neutrophil function are unclear. We sought to determine the biological effects of DFP on human neutrophil apoptosis and oxidative burst.

Methods

We isolated neutrophils from healthy volunteers, incubated them with DFP (2.5 mM), and evaluated neutrophil elastase (NE) activity, neutrophil degranulation, apoptosis as reflected in hypodiploid DNA formation and exteriorization of phosphatidylserine (PS), processing and activity of caspases-3 and -8, oxidative burst activity and hydrogen peroxide release.

Results

Consistent with its activity as a serine protease inhibitor, DFP significantly inhibited NE activity but not the degranulation of azurophilic granules. DFP inhibited constitutive neutrophil apoptosis as reflected in DNA fragmentation, and the processing and activity of caspases-3 and -8. DFP also inhibited priming of neutrophils for oxidative burst activity and hydrogen peroxide release. However, DFP enhanced the exteriorization of PS in a dose-dependent manner.

Conclusion

We conclude that DFP exerts significant effects on neutrophil inflammatory function that may confound the interpretation of studies that use it for its antiprotease activity. We further conclude that endogenous proteases play a role in the biology of constitutive neutrophil apoptosis.
Mice with early retinal degeneration show differences in neuropeptide expression in the suprachiasmatic nucleus
Authors: Ruggiero Linda , Allen Charles N , Brown R Lane , Robinson David W
Published: July 2010

Background

In mammals, the brain clock responsible for generating circadian rhythms is located in the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN) of the hypothalamus. Light entrainment of the clock occurs through intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (ipRGCs) whose axons project to the SCN via the retinohypothalamic tract. Although ipRGCs are sufficient for photoentrainment, rod and cone photoreceptors also contribute. Adult CBA/J mice, which exhibit loss of rod and cone photoreceptors during early postnatal development, have greater numbers of ipRGCs compared to CBA/N control mice. A greater number of photosensitive cells might argue for enhanced light responses, however, these mice exhibit attenuated phase shifting behaviors. To reconcile these findings, we looked for potential differences in SCN neurons of CBA/J mice that might underly the altered circadian behaviors. We hypothesized that CBA/J mice have differences in the expression of neuropeptides in the SCN, where ipRGCs synapse. The neuropeptides vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) and vasopressin (VP) are expressed by many SCN neurons and play an important role in the generation of circadian rhythms and photic entrainment.

Methods

Using immunohistochemistry, we looked for differences in the expression of VIP and VP in the SCN of CBA/J mice, and using a light-induced FOS assay, we also examined the degree of retinal innervation of the SCN by ipRGCs.

Results

Our data demonstrate greater numbers of VIP-and VP-positive cells in the SCN of CBA/J mice and a greater degree of light-induced FOS expression.

Conclusions

These results implicate changes in neuropeptide expression in the SCN which may underlie the altered circadian responses to light in these animals.
Engineering new medicine: an interview with James Collins
Authors: Kain Kristin H.
Published: July 2010

At first glance, the commonality among synthetic gene networks, nerve cell response times and the emergence of antibiotic resistance is obscure. Yet, when speaking with James (Jim) Collins, the relationship becomes clear: all are applications-oriented problems, and all inspire unique approaches from this unusual engineer who is empowered by his freedom to fail.
Nature in Engineering for Monitoring the Oceans: Towards a Bio-Inspired Flexible Autonomous Underwater Vehicle Operating in an Unsteady Flow
Authors: Phillips A B , Blake J I , Smith B , Boyd S W , Griffiths G
Published: July 2010

It has long been understood that swimming marine animals have evolved capabilities in terms of speed, manoeuvrability, and efficiency which are desirable for underwater vehicles. Despite this, solutions inspired by nature, or bio-inspiration, are very rarely applied to solve engineering challenges. In particular, it is understood that fish have the ability to alter their mode of swimming to interact with naturally produced vortices as a method of conserving energy and in certain instances extracting energy from a flow. This paper considers whether a bio-inspired flexible autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) could exploit unsteady flow features to reduce its cost of transport. An analytical model is developed which allows an AUV designer to predict which flow frequencies excite the natural vibration modes of a flexible cylinder. It is demonstrated that by placing a flexible cylinder in an unsteady flow, such as downstream of a bluff body, a similar mechanism to that used by fish may be exploited to move the cylinder upstream with no power input except that extracted from the flow.
Flow visualization experiments demonstrating the reverse swing of a cricket ball
Authors: Lock G D , Edwards S , Almond D P
Published: July 2010

Swing, the sideways deviation of the cricket ball in flight, is a phenomenon which can be explained in terms of fluid dynamics. Conventional swing has been used since the beginning of the twentieth century and is effective with a new or well-preserved ball. A controversial form of swing emerged in Pakistan in the 1980s, featuring an older worn ball which, at a high speed, swung in the reverse direction. A cricket ball is asymmetric because of the presence of a seam, which is made up of rows of prominent encircling stitches. For conventional swing, this seam trips into turbulence the boundary layer adjacent to one hemisphere of the ball which remains attached to a greater angle (about 120°) than does that on the other side (about 80°) where no seam is present to trip the laminar boundary layer. The result is asymmetrical separation, leading to a skewed wake and a net pressure force on the ball perpendicular to the flight trajectory. Reverse swing is thought to be a consequence of the fact that asymmetry inverts at a high speed if the seam thickens the turbulent boundary layer on one side of the ball. Although the fluid dynamics causes of both conventional and reverse swing are well known, this paper demonstrates clearly, by means of flow visualization and pressure measurements, the inversion of this pressure asymmetry at Reynolds numbers greater than 170×103.
Ondansetron (Oral): Uremic Pruritus (Adults)
Authors: Generali Joyce A. , Cada Dennis J.
Published: July 2010

This Hospital Pharmacy feature is extracted from Off-Label Drug Facts, a quarterly publication available from Wolters Kluwer Health. Off-Label Drug Facts is a practitioner-oriented resource for information about specific drug uses that are unapproved by the US Food and Drug Administration. This new guide to the literature enables the health care professional or clinician to quickly identify published studies on off-label uses and determine if a specific use is rational in a patient care scenario. A summary of the most relevant data is provided, including background, study design, patient population, dosage information, therapy duration, results, safety, and therapeutic considerations. References direct the reader to the full literature for more comprehensive information before patient care decisions are made. Direct questions or comments regarding Off-Label Drug Uses to jgeneral@kumc.edu .
Variable Infusion Rates Associated with TKO/KVO Abbreviations: A Survey of Illinois Hospital Pharmacists
Authors: Pinneke Steve
Published: July 2010

Purpose

To identify variability of infusion rates associated with TKO (to keep open) and KVO (keep vein open) orders in Illinois hospitals.

Method

An Internet survey of Illinois hospital pharmacists was conducted. Existence and identification of standardized rates for TKO/KVO were obtained. Chi-square analysis (significance P = 0.05) of frequency of responses to responders and rates was used.

Results

Sixty-nine (30%) of 230 hospital pharmacy directors responded. The majority of responders (78%) indicated that their institutions defined a standard rate. Rate ranges of 0 to 10, 20 to 29, 30 to 39, and 40 to 50 mL/h were identified as specified TKO infusion rates. A statistically significant difference between frequency of range rates was found ( P = 0.05). Six of “no” responders indicated TKO/KVO was an approved abbreviation and required a rate be given for each order. Total responses indicate 87% (60/69) have a standard rate or require a rate be specified.

Conclusion

The majority (87%) of responders indicate a standardized rate for TKO/KVO or require that a rate be indicated for each order. Variability in meaning exists for TKO/KVO infusion rates as fluid requirements differ with clinical status and age. Clarification of flow rates provides consistent interpretation. Each institution should have an approved rate for TKO. A policy requiring a rate for each order should be investigated.
Rapid intraoperative parathyroid hormone assay in fine needle aspiration for differential diagnosis in thyroid and parathyroid surgery
Authors: Pelizzo Maria Rosa , Losi Andrea , Boschin Isabella Merante , Toniato Antonio , Pennelli Gianmaria , Sorgato Nadia , Faggian Diego , Plebani Mario
Published: July 2010

Background: The purpose of our study was to investigate the efficacy of rapid intraoperative parathyroid hormone (rIO-PTH) analysis performed using material collected by fine needle aspiration as a parameter to distinguish anatomical structures which the surgeon is not able to identify clearly as parathyroid or lymph node during thyroid/parathyroid surgery. Before surgery, all patients gave written, informed consent.

Methods: We measured the rIO-PTH on 50 anatomical structures, 32 presumed parathyroids and 18 presumed lymph nodes from 22 patients, who underwent thyroid/parathyroid surgery between May and September 2009.

Results: The rIO-PTH values obtained on parathyroids ranged from 85.4 pmol/L to more than 2106 pmol/L, with a rIO-PTH median of 263.25 pmol/L. Results obtained on lymph nodes ranged from <0.52 pmol/L up to 20.4 pmol/L, with a rIO-PTH median equal to 1.31 pmol/L. Results of the Mann-Whitney test showed a rIO-PTH median significantly different (p<0.0001) between samples obtained from parathyroid glands and lymph node tissue.

Conclusions: We demonstrated that rapid intraoperative measurement of parathyroid hormone is a good parameter for the differential diagnosis of parathyroid vs. lymph node tissue. We suggest extending the use of this technique to the field of parathyroid preservation during thyroid/parathyroid surgery in those cases where the parathyroids prove difficult to recognize on the basis of topographic or morphologic criteria.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1313–7.
Transferrin receptor expression on reticulocytes as a marker of iron status in dialyzed patients
Authors: Soininen Kati , Punnonen Kari , Matinlauri Irma , Karhapää Pauli , Rehu Mari
Published: July 2010

Background: Erythropoietin therapy should be accompanied by an adequate iron supply in order to avoid functional iron deficiency (FID) related to enhanced erythropoiesis. Therefore, accurate monitoring of the body's iron homeostasis is needed. This study was conducted to investigate whether transferrin receptor (TfR) expression on reticulocytes can reflect iron status in patients with chronic renal failure (CRF).

Methods: TfR expression [antibody binding capacity (ABC)] and the proportion of TfR positive reticulocytes (%TfR+Ret) relative to all reticulocytes were measured by a quantitative flow cytometric method at baseline and at 3 weeks in 34 dialysis patients. Iron status (plasma ferritin and soluble TfR) and hemoglobin (Hb) with advanced cellular indices, such as the percentage of hypochromic reticulocytes (%HYPOr) and cellular Hb in reticulocytes (CHr), were also analyzed.

Results: Patients with FID had significantly higher TfR ABC and %TfR+Ret compared with patients with replete iron status (p=0.034 and p=0.006, respectively). In patients whose Hb concentrations showed a reduction, the mean increase (3 weeks – baseline) in TfR ABC was four-fold higher and %TfR+Ret was three-fold higher when compared with patients whose Hb was stable or had increased. The changes in TfR expression correlated significantly with the changes in reticulocyte indices [CHr (negatively), %HYPOr (positively)] and plasma ferritin (negatively).

Conclusions: Reticulocyte TfR expression reflected the changes in the Hb level and the iron availability at the cellular level, and therefore it might be useful in the assessment of iron status in patients with CRF.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1239–45.
L-Phenylalanine concentration in blood of phenylketonuria patients: a modified enzyme colorimetric assay compared with amino acid analysis, tandem mass spectrometry, and HPLC methods
Authors: De Silva Veronica , Oldham Charlie D. , May Sheldon W.
Published: July 2010

Background:Phenylketonuria (PKU) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by an impaired conversion of L-phenylalanine (Phe) to L-tyrosine, typically resulting from a deficiency in activity of a hepatic and renal enzyme L-phenylalanine hydroxylase. The disease is characterized by an increased concentration of Phe and its metabolites in body fluids.

Methods:A modified assay based on an enzymatic-colorimetric methodology was developed for measuring blood Phe levels in PKU patients; this method is designed for use with undeproteinized samples and avoids the use of solvents or amphiphilic agents. Thus, the method could be suitable for incorporation into a simple home-monitoring device.

Results:We report here on a comparison of blood Phe concentrations in PKU patients measured in undeproteinized plasma using this enzyme colorimetric assay (ECA), with values determined by amino acid analysis (AAA) of deproteinized samples, and HPLC and tandem mass spectrometry (MS/MS) analyses of dried blood spot (DBS) eluates. Pearson correlation coefficients of 0.951, 0.976 and 0.988 were obtained when AAA-measured Phe concentrations were compared with the ECA-, HPLC- or MS/MS-measured values, respectively. A Bland-Altman analysis revealed that mean Phe concentrations determined using AAA were on average 65 μmol/L lower than values measured by our ECA. These results may be the result of minimizing the manipulations performed on the patient sample compared with AAA, HPLC, and MS/MS methods, which involve plasma deproteinization or DBS elution and derivatization.

Conclusions:The results reported here confirm that Phe concentrations determined by our ECA method are comparable to those determined by other widely used methods for a broad range of plasma Phe concentrations.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1271–9.
Point-of-care determination of neonatal bilirubin with the blood gas analyzer RapidLab 1265
Authors: Mielsch Caroline , Zimmermann Andrea , Wagner Dieter , Matthes Bianca , Schlebusch Harald , Luppa Peter B.
Published: July 2010

Background: The aim of the study was to evaluate the comparability of the new neonatal bilirubin method on the RapidLab 1265 blood gas analyzer. This point-of-care testing (POCT) device has the option for the determination of neonatal bilirubin, making it potentially valuable for use in neonate intensive care units or in outpatient ambulances.

Methods: We paired 240 patient samples for intermethod comparisons between the new POCT method and the routine laboratory method (Vitros 350 chemistry system with BuBc slide). In parallel, a transcutaneous jaundice meter (JM-103) was applied to the newborns. Low birthweight and premature neonates were excluded from the trial. The turn-around-time (TAT) for the POCT method was also compared with the routine method, and the practicality of the new analyzer was evaluated for clinical purposes.

Results: Bilirubin measurements using the RapidLab 1265 are suitable for the application in newborns. For imprecision, coefficients of variation between 5.6% and 23% were found. The correlation between the Vitros 350 (x) and RapidLab 1265 (y) was y=1.0x–0.1 (r=0.91), with a mean bias of +0.1 mg/dL and a 95% limit of agreement of ±2.5 mg/dL. As in all POCT methods, the TAT was significantly lower than that of the core laboratory.

Conclusions: In contrast to the JM-103, the results of the RapidLab 1265 correlated closely with the Vitros 350, although occasional results of both methods were more different than expected. In general, the RapidLab 1265 blood gas analyzer provides clinically useful bilirubin results using neonatal whole blood samples, although imprecision data are higher than for the laboratory method. The POCT device is suitable for neonatal intensive care units after thoroughly training the employees that will use the device.

Clin Chem Lab Med 2010;48:1455–61.
Effect of sewage sludge on soil properties, the growth of Lycopersicon esculentum L. and the properties of the rhizosphere in a model experiment
Authors: Bayoumi Hamuda Hosam E. A. F. , Orosz Erika , Horváth Márk , Palágyi Attila , Szederné Baranyai Beatrix , Patkó István , Kecskés Mihály
Published: July 2010

A talajok eredményes szennyvíziszap-kezelése érdekében szükséges vizsgálni a talaj biológiai tulajdonságait, melyek szoros összefüggésben vannak a talaj minőségével. A talajok biokomponensei általában gyorsabban reagálnak a változó talajkörülményekre, mint a talaj fiziko–kémiai tulajdonságai, ezért a talajban élő mikrobapopulációk és az enzimaktivitás mértéke bioindikátorként szolgál a talaj termőképességét illetően. Kísérletünkben vizsgáltuk a nyíregyházi és hódmezővásárhelyi eredetű kommunális szennyvíziszappal (100:0, 20:80, 40:60, 60:40, 0:100%, talaj:iszap) kezelt réti csernozjom talaj, kovárványos barna erdőtalaj és agyagbemosódásos barna erdőtalaj – kontrolhoz viszonyított – fizikai, kémiai és biológiai tulajdonságait, valamint összemértük a kezelt és kezeletlen (kontroll) talajok termőképességét a paradicsomnövény példáján 63 napos termesztést követően. Eredményeink azt mutatják, hogy a szennyvíziszap-kezelés növelte a talaj pH(KCl)-értékét, szervesanyag-tartalmát, CO2-termelését (talajlégzést) és nedvességtartó idejét is meghosszabbította. A terméshozamot illetően a kezelt talajoké minden esetben felülmúlták a kontrolltalajokét. A legmagasabb terméshozamot a 60% nyíregyházi eredetű szennyvíziszappal kezelt kovárványos barna erdőtalaj esetében (1,5–2-szeres) kaptuk. A kezelt talajok esetében ugyancsak szignifikáns növekedés volt tapasztalható a heterotróf bakériumok, aerob heterotróf spórások, cellulózbontók és foszfátoldók,Bacillus, fluorescensPseudomonas-ok, aktinomicéták, fonalas gombák, valamint élesztőket illetően. Ennek köszönhetően nőtt a kezelt talajok FDA, dehidrogenáz, kataláz, ureáz, proteáz, foszfatáz, β-glükozidáz, invertáz és aril-szulfatáz aktivitása is. Jelen enzimek aktivitása lineárisan emelkedő korrelációt mutat a talaj szervesanyag-tartalmával, mely a talajokhoz adagolt szennyvíziszapnak köszönhető. Összefoglalásképpen, a talajok szennyvíziszappal való kezelése serkenti a növényi növekedést, javítja a rizoszféra fizikai, biokémiai és mikrobiális tulajdonságait, segít megőrizni a talaj nedvességtartalmát, valamint emeli a talaj pH-értékét, amely ugyancsak kedvező a növények növekedése szempontjából.
Climate sensitivity of the soil water regime on pseudomyceliar chernozem soils
Authors: Farkas Csilla , Hernádi Hilda , Makó András , Máté Ferenc
Published: July 2010

Munkánk során különböző klímaváltozási forgatókönyvek lehetséges hatását értékeltük a hazai mészlepedékes csernozjom talajok vízmérlegére. Igazoltuk, hogy a vizsgált talajok vízforgalmát alapvetően meghatározzák az időjárási feltételek. Megállapítottuk, hogy a talaj víztartóképesség-függvényének jellemzésére használt arányossági együttható esetenként megfelelő indikátora lehet a talajvízforgalom klímaérzékenységének. A szélsőséges csapadékösszegű években nagyobb eltérést tapasztaltunk a különböző klímaforgatókönyvekre becsült talajvízmérleg elemek között, mint az átlagos csapadékmennyiséggel rendelkező években. Ezt az általános tendenciát azonban az A2 szcenárióra jellemző, nagy csapadékintenzitással bíró extrém időjárási helyzetek esetenként felülírták, elsősorban a mélybeszivárgás megnövekedése révén. Ez felhívja a figyelmet arra, hogy bár modellezési eredményeinkből kimutathatóak általános összefüggések, a talajok klímaérzékenységének tanulmányozásához szükséges a csapadék éven belüli eloszlásának és a szélsőséges időjárási helyzetek hatásának vizsgálata is. Eredményeink arra engednek következtetni, hogy az azonos mechanikai összetételű, de eltérő szerkezetű talajok vízforgalma megváltozott klímafeltételek között is jelentősen eltér, tehát megfelelően megválasztott, talajszerkezet-megóvó és nedvességőrző talajművelési rendszerekkel elősegíthetjük a párolgási veszteségek csökkentését és a növényi vízfogyasztás növekedését. A kapott eredmények összevetése során kimutattuk, hogy statikus jellemzőkből, a talajvízforgalom folyamatának mérleg-elvekre épülő, dinamikus megközelítése nélkül csak óvatos következtetéseket vonhatunk le a talajok vízgazdálkodására és klímaérzékenységére vonatkozóan. Reményeink szerint a felvázolt összefüggések hozzájárulnak a megelőző, illetve a káros hatásokat csökkentő beavatkozási stratégiák kidolgozásához a szélsőséges vízforgalmi helyzetek negatív következményeinek enyhítése céljából.
Effect of fertilization and irrigation on N fractions determined in 0.01 M calcium chloride on lowland pseudomyceliar chernozem
Authors: Berényi Sándor , Bertáné Szabó Emese , Pepó Péter , Loch Jakab
Published: July 2010

Alföldi mészlepedékes csernozjom talajon beállított vetésforgó, trágyázási (N: 0, 120, 240; P2O5: 0, 90, 180 és K2O: 0, 90, 180 kg·ha-1) és öntözési (öntözetlen; öntözött: 2×50 mm) tartamkísérlet 20. évében vizsgáltuk a kezelések hatását a 0,01 mol kalcium-kloridban mérhető N-frakciók alakulására, kukorica monokultúrában. A 200 cm-es szelvény CaCl2-ban mért NO3-N, NH4-N, Norg- és Nössz-tartalmátHoubaés munkatársai (1990) módszerével határoztuk meg. Főbb megállapításaink a következőkben foglalhatók össze: – A kalcium-kloridban mért N-frakciókkal jól nyomon követhető a kezelések hatása. Valamennyi frakció szignifikánsan növekedett a N-trágyázás hatására. – A termésadatokból és talajvizsgálatokból egyaránt kitűnik, hogy a 240 kg N·ha-1adag már nem hasznosul. A talajszelvényben mért összes N-tartalom érzékenyen jelzi a N-felhalmozódást. – A NO3-N mélységi eloszlása jól jellemzi az öntözött és öntözetlen körülmények között tapasztalható eltérő kimosódási viszonyokat. Az öntözetlen parcellákon 200 cm-nél mértük a legnagyobb NO3-N értéket. Az öntözött parcellák NO3-N tartalma kevesebb, mint fele az öntözetlenének, és a felhalmozódási maximum mélyebbre tehető. – A vizsgálati eredmények összhangban vannak a korábbi hazai tapasztalatokkal. – A 0,01 mol CaCl2-os módszer előnyeként kiemelhető az ásványi formákon kívül meghatározható szerves N frakció jelentősége, amely alkalmas az eddigi trágyázási gyakorlatban figyelmen kívül hagyott könnyen mobilizálható N-tartalékok jellemzésére.
The Mining Law of 1872: Change is Overdue
Authors: Woody Carol Ann , Hughes Robert M. , Wagner Eric J. , Quinn Thomas P. , Roulson Leanne H. , Martin Lori M. , Griswold Kitty
Published: July 2010

Hardrock mining for metals has been, and is, an economically important land use in all western U.S. states. However, metals contamination associated with mining can be highly toxic to aquatic life, the composition of metal-bearing rock often leads to acid mine drainage and increased concentrations of dissolved metals, and mine-related disruptions to soil and water often produce excess fine sediments and altered stream flows. Such environmental degradation leads to large numbers of perpetually polluted streams and impaired aquatic life and fisheries. The primary U.S. law governing mining, the General Mining Law of 1872, was passed during the pick-and-shovel era to encourage economic growth; however, modern mining processes are massive in extent, highly mechanized, and incorporate additional toxic chemicals for leaching metals from ores. We provide an overview of hardrock mining impacts to aquatic life, a set of mining case studies, and suggestions for amending U.S. mining law. Our hope is that this article will lead to improved management and rehabilitation of existing mine sites and sufficient protections for the aquatic life and fisheries likely to be disturbed by future mines.

la minería metalúrgica subterránea ha sido, y aún es, una actividad económicamente importante en cuanto a uso de suelo en los estados del oeste de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica. Sin embargo, la contaminación por metales asociada a la minería puede ser altamente tóxica para la vida acuática, la composición de las rocas que contienen metales suele derivar en drenaje ácido de mina e incrementar la concentración de metales disueltos y las alteraciones en el suelo y agua relacionados con la minería pueden producir un exceso de sedimentos finos que alteran el cauce de los ríos. Tal degradación ambiental da lugar a un considerable número de cauces permanentemente contaminados, lo que pone en peligro tanto a la vida acuática como a las pesquerías. La ley directriz de minería de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica, La Ley General de Minería de 1872, fue decretada durante la época de “pico y pala” con el fin de promover el crecimiento económico; no obstante, los actuales procesos de minería son extensivos, altamente mecanizados e incorporan químicos tóxicos para lixiviar metales a partir de minerales. En este trabajo se presenta una revisión de los impactos de la minería subterránea en la vida acuática, un grupo de minas como casos de estudio y sugerencias para modificar la Ley de Minería de los Estados Unidos de Norteamérica. Nuestra esperanza es que la presente contribución de lugar a un mejoramiento en el manejo y rehabilitación de las minas existentes y a suficientes medidas de protección para la vida acuática y las pesquerías que puedan ser alteradas por la explotación de más minas en el futuro.
Cloning, Expression, and Immunogenicity of Flavobacterium columnare Heat Shock Protein DnaJ
Authors: Olivares-Fuster Oscar , Terhune Jeffery S. , Shoemaker Craig A. , Arias Covadonga R.
Published: July 2010

The Flavobacterium columnare heat shock protein (HSP) gene dnaJ* was isolated, cloned, expressed, and used as an antigen in a recombinant vaccine strategy for channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus. The F. columnare dnaJ* sequence was obtained from genomovars I and II and showed intraspecies variability. Recombinant protein was expressed and purified from Escherichia coli cultures and injected intraperitoneally (12 μg of purified DnaJ/fish) into fingerling channel catfish. In addition, induced (expressing the recombinant DnaJ) and uninduced (no recombinant protein being produced) E. coli cultures were also used to immunize fish. At 28 d postimmunization, antibody response was evaluated and the fish were challenged with F. columnare. A specific immune response against DnaJ was observed in fish immunized with DnaJ or E. coli cultures expressing DnaJ. No protection against the disease, however, was observed in F. columnare-challenged fish that had been immunized with DnaJ. Some level of protection was observed in fish immunized with uninduced and induced E. coli lysates. Although HSPs have been shown to be immunodominant and good candidates for subunit vaccines in other animals, DnaJ failed to protect against columnaris disease in channel catfish.
Preliminary Amphibian Health Survey in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area
Authors: Glenney Gavin W. , Julian James T. , Quartz William M.
Published: July 2010

To detect aquatic animal diseases of national concern, 111 individual amphibians, including wood frogs Rana sylvatica (28), spring peepers Pseudacris crucifer (35), red-spotted newts Notophthalmus viridescens (41), and gray tree frogs Hyla versicolor (7), were sampled at seven different sites in the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area (DGNRA), Pennsylvania, from June 14 to July 19, 2007. These samples were screened for Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis and viral pathogens at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's Fish Health Center in Lamar, Pennsylvania. Cell culture revealed cytopathic effect (CPE) in two cell lines (epithelioma papillosum cyprini and fathead minnow) inoculated with liver, kidney, and spleen samples from one sample pool of Notophthalmus viridescens (4 individuals). Polymerase chain reaction was conducted on cell culture supernatant exhibiting CPE. Sequencing revealed the resulting product to be identical to frog virus 3, a ranavirus in the family Iridoviridae. Upon gross examination, two Notophthalmus viridescens were found to exhibit dermal swelling and lethargy. Histological examination of these lesions revealed involvement by an Ichthyophonus sp. In summary, two pathogens of concern were found in amphibians in the DGNRA: a ranavirus with a major capsid protein sequence identical to that of frog virus 3 and a mesomycetozoan, Ichthyophonus sp. Although no epizootic die-offs were observed during this health survey, the results warrant further research into the distribution of these pathogens throughout the DGNRA because they have the potential to cause mass mortalities in amphibians.
A Comparison of Heavy Metal Concentrations and Health Assessment in Asian Clams Corbicula fluminea from Florida and North Carolina
Authors: Lewbart Gregory A. , Christian Larry S. , Harms Craig A. , Van Wettere Arnaud J.
Published: July 2010

The Asian clam Corbicula fluminea was introduced into the United States in 1938 and has since become established in much of the country. This invasive species can compete with native bivalves and compromise industrial water supply systems and power plants. Numerous studies have examined bivalves as bioindicators. The purpose of this study was to compare the heavy metal concentrations of the hard and soft tissues of specimens from Florida and North Carolina and to assess the clams' health by microscopic examination of their soft tissues. Although the sample size was small, this study suggests that the Asian clams from the watersheds examined are healthy and that they accumulate lower levels of heavy metals than have been reported for clams from other, more polluted aquatic environments.
Resistance and Protective Immunity in Redfish Lake Sockeye Salmon Exposed to M Type Infectious Hematopoietic Necrosis Virus (IHNV)
Authors: Kurath Gael , Garver Kyle A. , LaPatra Scott E. , Purcell Maureen K.
Published: July 2010

Differential virulence of infectious hematopoietic necrosis virus (IHNV) isolates from the U and M phylogenetic subgroups is clearly evident in the Redfish Lake (RFL) strain of sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka. In these fish, experimental immersion challenges with U isolates cause extremely high mortality and M isolates cause low or no mortality. When survivors of M virus immersion challenges were exposed to a secondary challenge with virulent U type virus they experienced high mortality, indicating that the primary M challenge did not elicit protective immunity. Delivery of a moderate dose (2 × 104 plaque-forming units [PFU]/fish) of virus by intraperitoneal injection challenge did not overcome RFL sockeye salmon resistance to M type IHNV. Injection challenge with a high dose (5 × 106 PFU/fish) of M type virus caused 10% mortality, and in this case survivors did develop protective immunity against a secondary U type virus challenge. Thus, although it is possible for M type IHNV to elicit cross-protective immunity in this disease model, it does not develop after immersion challenge despite entry, transient replication of M virus to low levels, stimulation of innate immune genes, and development of neutralizing antibodies in some fish.
Efficacy of Florfenicol for Control of Mortality Caused by Flavobacterium columnare Infection in Channel Catfish
Authors: Gaunt Patricia S. , Gao Dana , Sun Fangshi , Endris Richard
Published: July 2010

The efficacy of florfenicol against infection by the bacterium Flavobacterium columnare was studied in channel catfish Ictalurus punctatus fingerlings held in 80-L aquaria. Nonabraded fish were challenged by immersion on day 0. Thirty 80-L tanks were randomly assigned in equal numbers to two treatment groups, one in which fish were fed a commercial diet without florfenicol (unmedicated feed) and one in which they were fed a diet containing 10 mg of florfenicol/kg of body weight (medicated feed) for ten consecutive days. Mortality was monitored during the treatment period and a 14-d posttreatment observation period. At the end of the posttreatment period, all fish were euthanized, examined for gross lesions, and cultured for F. columnare. Significantly fewer fish fed the medicated diet died (8.0%) than fish fed the unmedicated diet (54.2%). Flavobacterium columnare was cultured from 15.0% of the medicated fish, compared with 68.9% of the unmedicated fish. The gross lesions in the fish were consistent with columnaris disease, and F. columnare was cultured from 99.5% of the dead fish. No differences were observed in weight gain and appetence between the medicated and unmedicated groups. For the F. columnare strain used in this study, the minimal inhibitory concentration of florfenicol ranged from 0.5 to 1.0 mg/mL in the 30 bacterial cultures obtained from infected fish, and the mean disk diffusion zone of inhibition was 40 mm. There were no adverse effects among the medicated fish. Administration of florfenicol at a dosage of 10 mg/kg body weight for 10 d was efficacious and safe for the control of mortality from F. columnare infection in channel catfish.