bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The genome of Syntrophomonas wolfei: new insights into syntrophic metabolism and biohydrogen production
Authors: Sieber Jessica R. , Sims David R. , Han Cliff , Kim Edwin , Lykidis Athanasios , Lapidus Alla L. , McDonnald Erin , Rohlin Lars , Culley David E. , Gunsalus Robert , McInerney Michael J.
Published: May 2010

Syntrophomonas wolfei is a specialist, evolutionarily adapted for syntrophic growth with methanogens and other hydrogen‐ and/or formate‐using microorganisms. This slow‐growing anaerobe has three putative ribosome RNA operons, each of which has 16S rRNA and 23S rRNA genes of different length and multiple 5S rRNA genes. The genome also contains 10 RNA‐directed, DNA polymerase genes. Genomic analysis shows that S. wolfei relies solely on the reduction of protons, bicarbonate or unsaturated fatty acids to re‐oxidize reduced cofactors. Syntrophomonas wolfei lacks the genes needed for aerobic or anaerobic respiration and has an exceptionally limited ability to create ion gradients. An ATP synthase and a pyrophosphatase were the only systems detected capable of creating an ion gradient. Multiple homologues for β‐oxidation genes were present even though S. wolfei uses a limited range of fatty acids from four to eight carbons in length.Syntrophomonas wolfei, other syntrophic metabolizers with completed genomic sequences, and thermophilic anaerobes known to produce high molar ratios of hydrogen from glucose have genes to produce H2 from NADH by an electron bifurcation mechanism. Comparative genomic analysis also suggests that formate production from NADH may involve electron bifurcation. A membrane‐bound, iron–sulfur oxidoreductase found in S. wolfei and Syntrophus aciditrophicus may be uniquely involved in reverse electron transport during syntrophic fatty acid metabolism. The genome sequence of S. wolfei reveals several core reactions that may be characteristic of syntrophic fatty acid metabolism and illustrates how biological systems produce hydrogen from thermodynamically difficult reactions.
Cost variation in diabetes care delivered in English hospitals
Authors: Kristensen T. , Laudicella M. , Ejersted C. , Street A.
Published: May 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 949–957 (2010)

Aims  We analysed the in‐hospital costs of diabetic patients admitted to English hospitals and aimed to assess what proportions of cost variation are explained by patient and hospital characteristics.

Methods  We used Hospital Episode Statistics and reference costs for all patients admitted to diabetes care for all English hospitals for the financial year 2005/2006. Our sample included 31 371 patients admitted to 148 hospitals. We applied a multi‐level approach. We analysed the relationship between patient costs and patient characteristics. We estimated the average cost of being treated in each hospital after controlling for patient characteristics. In addition, we explored why these average costs vary across hospitals.

Results  Much of the variation in the costs of controlling diabetes was driven by the Healthcare Resource Group to which the patient was allocated, but costs were also higher for patients who were transferred between hospitals, suffered infections and other complications, or for those who died in hospital. Even so, approximately 8–9% of the variation in costs was related to the hospital in which the patient was treated, with geographical variation in factor prices being the prime reason for this variation. The volume of patients, and the number and diversity of specialties involved in caring for diabetic patients did not explain the variation in the cost of treating diabetic patients across hospitals.

Conclusions  Healthcare Resource Groups and diagnostic markers are significant patient‐related cost drivers in diabetes care. Costs are not lower in hospitals with a high volume of patients and where diabetes care is concentrated in few specialties.
Work and non‐work social support and intent to stay at work among Jordanian hospital nurses
Authors: AbuAlRub R.F.
Published: May 2010

ABUALRUB R.F. (2010) Work and non‐work social support and intent to stay at work among Jordanian hospital nurses. International Nursing Review57, 195–201

Purpose:  To examine (1) the level of intent to stay at work among Jordanian nurses; (2) the levels of at‐work and non‐work social support; and (3) the extent of variance in the level of intent to stay at work because of the demographic and social support variables.

Design:  A survey design was used to investigate the predictors of intent to stay at work among the population of Jordanian nurses in three public hospitals. Two hundred and seventy five participants submitted complete and usable questionnaires. The response rates were 50%, 55% and 70%, respectively.

Methods:  Data were collected using a questionnaire that included a scale for measuring social support, the McCain's Intent to Stay Scale and the demographic form.

Findings:  The results showed that support from supervisors, marital status, number of friends at work, number of children at home, gender, time commitment, support from co‐workers and support from family accounted for 60% of the variation in the level of intent to stay. The results indicated that nurses who were females, had children at home, worked full time and perceived having more support from co‐workers and supervisors tended to stay at work more than others. On the other hand, the results showed that marital status, number of friends at work and family support were associated negatively with intent to stay at work.

Conclusion:  The findings of the study suggest the important role of workplace social support in enhancing the level of intent to stay at work.
Presence of nursing information on hospital websites in five countries: a review
Authors: Chen L.L. , Liu Y.L.
Published: May 2010

CHEN L.L. & LIU Y.L. (2010) Presence of nursing information on hospital websites in five countries: a review. International Nursing Review57, 168–172

Aim:  The aims of this study were to (1) examine the presence of nursing information on 50 hospital websites across five countries; (2) describe the accessibility, range and depth of nursing information provided; and (3) compare the characteristics of nursing web information across the countries.

Background:  Providing information on hospital website is an increasingly popular strategy for marketing hospital services, and it has been playing unique and important roles for nursing. So far, the nursing information offered via hospital websites is not uncommon worldwide, but the amount, content and form of such information presented by the institutions of different countries have not been examined systematically.

Methods:  Objective sampling was employed to select 50 top hospital websites from five countries, with ten for each geographical region, namely, Australia (Oceania), China (Asia), South Africa (Africa), UK (Europe) and the USA (North America). A self‐developed checklist was used to examine the presence of nursing information on the above‐mentioned hospital websites.

Findings:  The most frequently presented information on the hospital websites was nursing employment (job placement), nursing education, and news and events concerning the nursing profession, but information about other aspects of nursing was relatively lacking. The hospital websites in the USA and Australia provided more information as compared with those in China and the UK. Nursing information was almost unavailable on hospital websites in South Africa. Although the accessibility of nursing‐related information has been improved, the presence of nursing information was not strong on the hospital websites across the five countries.

Conclusion:  The nursing information presented on hospital websites varied with different countries. Efforts have to be made to improve the presence and accessibility of nursing information. Information about the nursing services, professional image of nurses and nursing employment should be enhanced.
Evaluation of patient self‐management outcomes in health care: a systematic review
Authors: Du S. , Yuan C.
Published: May 2010

DU S. & YUAN C. (2010) Evaluation of patient self‐management outcomes in health care: a systematic review. International Nursing Review57, 159–167

Background:  The importance of self‐management and its intervention for improving the ability and skill of self‐management has been discussed in literatures. It is, however, unclear how to choose the fitted, objective and accurate evaluation system when assessing the outcome.

Aim:  The aim of this article was to establish a general evaluation system for skill and ability of self‐management in chronic diseases through systematic review on different evaluation indicators and scales.

Method:  A systematic search of six electronic databases was conducted. Two authors independently reviewed each qualified study for relevance and significance. Subsequently, main evaluation indicators and scales were identified and categorized into themes and sub‐themes.

Results:  Nineteen articles were identified in this review. Among them, six main evaluation indicators of self‐management, including frequently used scales, were extracted and tabulated. Self‐efficacy, health behaviour/attitude, health status, health service utilization, quality of life and psychological indicators were the main indicators in evaluating self‐management outcome, and they could be used alone or in combination flexibly according to the different goals of programmes.

Conclusion:  Accurate evaluation of skill and ability of self‐management is crucial not only in baseline data collection but also in proving the effectiveness of intervention. The outcomes of this study provide future researchers or caregivers with a better understanding and a series of good choices in self‐management outcome evaluation.
M, M, M & M: a mnemonic for assessing obesity
Authors: Sharma A. M.
Published: May 2010

Obese individuals can present with a wide range of medical and psychosocial problems, which can promote weight gain, provide important indications for treatment but, in some cases, also pose significant barriers to management. To ensure a complete assessment and consideration of these factors, I propose the use of a simple mnemonic consisting of four Ms or ‘M, M, M, & M’ that stand for Mental, Mechanical, Metabolic and Monetory, respectively, and may help the busy practitioner navigate through a thorough assessment of clients presenting with excess weight.
TRUSTED CONSENT AND RESEARCH BIOBANKS: TOWARDS A ‘NEW ALLIANCE’ BETWEEN RESEARCHERS AND DONORS
Authors: BONIOLO GIOVANNI , DI FIORE PIER PAOLO , PECE SALVATORE
Published: May 2010

We argue that, in the case of research biobanks, there is a need to replace the currently used informed consent with trusted consent. Accordingly, we introduce a proposal for the structure of the latter. Further, we discuss some of the issues that can be addressed effectively through our proposal. In particular, we illustrate: i) which research should be authorized by donors; ii) how to regulate access to information; iii) the fundamental role played by a Third Party Authority in assuring compliance with the reciprocal expectations and obligations of donors and scientists. Finally, we briefly analyse two issues that might represent important elements of a ‘new alliance’ between researchers and donors to which the trusted consent could pave the way: i) the correlations between needs and rights of the two parties, and ii) possible economic transactions.
REFLECTIONS ON ‘AUTISTIC INTEGRITY’
Authors: RUSSELL BARBARA
Published: May 2010

Autism, particularly its moderate to severe forms, has prompted considerable scientific study and clinical involvement because the associated behaviours imply disconnections with valued features of a ‘good’ life, such as close relationships, enjoyment, and adaptability. Proposed causes of autism involve potent philosophical concepts including consciousness, identity, mind, and relationality. The concept of autistic integrity is used by Barnbaum in The Ethics of Autism: Among Them, But Not of Them to help provide moral justification to stop efforts to cure adults with autism, especially if the cause is presumed to be a lack of a theory of mind.1 This article has two goals: (1) to apply four familiar definitions or characterizations of integrity to the case of moderate to severe autism, and (2) to examine whether autistic integrity does provide the moral justification Barnbaum seeks.
US–Euro Area Monetary Policy Interdependence: New Evidence from Taylor Rule‐based VECMs
Authors: Belke Ansgar , Cui Yuhua
Published: May 2010

(1227) Ansgar Belke and Yuhua Cui

This paper analyses the monetary policy interdependence between the European Central Bank (ECB) and the Federal Reserve (Fed) for the period 1999–2006. Two models are specified: a partial vector error correction model (VECM) and a general VECM. In the partial VECM, we look for a long‐run interdependent relationship between the interest rates of the two currency areas and specify the Taylor Rule terms as exogenous variables. In the general VECM, we regard all variables as endogenous, and look for long‐run equilibrium relationships among them, which may reveal monetary policy interdependence between the two central banks. Weak exogeneity is checked in both models in order to establish a possible leader–follower relationship. The empirical results of both models indicate interdependence between the ECB and the Fed, but only the general VECM testifies a leader–follower pattern between the two central banks. According to this pattern, the ECB does follow the Fed.
Globalisation and the Spatial Concentration of Production
Authors: Niepmann Friederike , Felbermayr Gabriel J.
Published: May 2010

(1240) Friederike Niepmann and Gabriel J. Felbermayr

In new trade theory (NTT) models, freer trade tends to increase the spatial concentration of industrial production across countries. While nations with large home markets and central geographical location become increasingly attractive business locations, small peripheral countries gradually deindustrialise. Using data for 26 industries, 20 OECD countries and 20 years, we investigate the empirical validity of this claim. Separating out the role of home market size from geographical factors, and using various panel methods, we find robust evidence in line with theory. Freer trade has indeed magnified the importance of domestic demand and geographical location for the pattern of industrial production across the globe and has therefore exacerbated spatial disparities.
Young children and women's labour force participation in Russia, 1992–20041
Authors: Grogan Louise , Koka Katerina
Published: May 2010

We document the changing labour force participation patterns of women with young children in Russia during 1992–2004. In this period maternity leave benefits became less generous, and childcare was privatized and became increasingly scarce. Using nationally representative household survey data it is shown that in 1992, there was essentially no association between the probability of a woman being a labour force participant and her having a child under age 3. However, by 2004, having children under age 3 had become associated with significantly reduced participation and employment probabilities, conditional on other observable characteristics of women and their households, and local factors. Several potential explanations for these findings are discussed.
Enforcing Financial Penalties: The Case of Confiscation Orders
Authors: BULLOCK KAREN
Published: May 2010

Abstract: Financial penalties are the most widely used sentence in England and Wales, but present difficulties for enforcement. This article examines the enforcement of confiscation orders – a relatively poorly understood financial penalty. Drawing on interviews with actors in the confiscation order process this article examines the processes through which confiscation orders are enforced. It is argued that enforcement is the result of an interaction of factors which include the initial decision making of police officers, financial investigators and prosecutors; the accuracy of information about offenders' financial affairs; enforcement powers, intelligence and operational support; and, the behaviour and attitudes of the offender.
Transfer of training: the role of feedback in supportive social networks
Authors: Van den Bossche Piet , Segers Mien , Jansen Niekie
Published: May 2010

The transfer of training to the workplace often fails to occur. The authors argue that feedback generated within the work environment about the application of newly learned skills in the workplace helps to close the gap between the current performance and the desired goal of full application of what is learned during training. This study takes a social network perspective and explores the role of feedback generated within the social network in fostering motivation‐to‐transfer and the transfer of training. The results show that the number of people providing feedback and the helpfulness of this feedback are positively related to the motivation for and actual transfer of training. The frequency of feedback appears to be negatively related. This study underlines the importance of feedback in turning the workplace into a learning environment fostering the transfer of training. It also suggests the value of adopting a social network perspective.
Learning from evaluation by peer team: a case study of a family counselling organization
Authors: Muniute‐Cobb Eivina I. , Alfred Mary V.
Published: May 2010

This qualitative study explores how employees learn from Team Primacy Concept‐based employee evaluation and how they use the feedback in performing their jobs. Team Primacy Concept‐based evaluation is a type of multirater evaluation. The distinctive characteristic of such evaluation is its peer feedback component during which the employee's performance is discussed by peers in a face‐to‐face team setting. The study used Kolb's experiential learning model to describe the process by which employees learn from Team Primacy Concept‐based employee evaluation and the ways in which they use the knowledge to improve their job performance. The study found eight major dimensions that highlight employee learning as a result of the employees' engagement in the process of Team Primacy Concept‐based evaluation.
Adaptation of rat jaw muscle fibers in postnatal development with a different food consistency: an immunohistochemical and electromyographic study
Authors: Kawai Nobuhiko , Sano Ryota , Korfage Joannes A. M. , Nakamura Saika , Kinouchi Nao , Kawakami Emi , Tanne Kazuo , Langenbach Geerling E. J. , Tanaka Eiji
Published: May 2010

The development of the craniofacial system occurs, among other reasons, as a response to functional needs. In particular, the deficiency of the proper masticatory stimulus affects the growth. The purpose of this study was to relate alterations of muscle activity during postnatal development to adaptational changes in the muscle fibers. Fourteen 21‐day‐old Wistar strain male rats were randomly divided into two groups and fed on either a solid (hard‐diet group) or a powder (soft‐diet group) diet for 63 days. A radio‐telemetric device was implanted to record muscle activity continuously from the superficial masseter, anterior belly of digastric and anterior temporalis muscles. The degree of daily muscle use was quantified by the total duration of muscle activity per day (duty time), the total burst number and their average length exceeding specified levels of the peak activity (5, 20 and 50%). The fiber type composition of the muscles was examined by the myosin heavy chain content of fibers by means of immunohistochemical staining and their cross‐sectional area was measured. All muscle fibers were identified as slow type I and fast type IIA, IIX or IIB (respectively, with increasing twitch contraction speed and fatigability). At lower activity levels (exceeding 5% of the peak activity), the duty time of the anterior belly of the digastric muscle was significantly higher in the soft‐diet group than in the hard‐diet group (P < 0.05). At higher activity levels (exceeding 20 and 50% of the peak activity), the duty time of the superficial masseter muscle in the soft‐diet group was significantly lower than that in the hard‐diet group (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the duty time of the anterior temporalis muscle at any muscle activity level. The percentage of type IIA fibers of the superficial masseter muscle in the soft‐diet group was significantly lower than that in the hard‐diet group (P < 0.01) and the opposite was true with regard to type IIB fibers (P < 0.05). The cross‐sectional area of type IIX and type IIB fibers of the superficial masseter muscle was significantly smaller in the soft‐diet group than in the hard‐diet group (P < 0.05). There was no difference in the muscle fiber composition and the cross‐sectional area of the anterior belly of the digastric and anterior temporalis muscles. In conclusion, for the jaw muscles of male rats reared on a soft diet, the slow‐to‐fast transition of muscle fiber was shown in only the superficial masseter muscle. Therefore, the reduction in the amount of powerful muscle contractions could be important for the slow‐to‐fast transition of the myosin heavy chain isoform in muscle fibers.
First evidence of a bipartite medial cuneiform in the hominin fossil record: a case report from the Early Pleistocene site of Dmanisi
Authors: Jashashvili Tea , Ponce de León Marcia S. , Lordkipanidze David , Zollikofer Christoph P. E.
Published: May 2010

A medial cuneiform exhibiting complete bipartition was discovered at the Early Pleistocene site of Dmanisi, Georgia. The specimen is the oldest known instance of this anatomical variant in the hominin fossil record. Here we compare developmental variation of the medial cuneiform in fossil hominins, extant humans and great apes, and discuss potential implications of bipartition for hominin foot phylogeny and function. Complete bipartition is rare among modern humans (< 1%); incomplete bipartition was found in 2 of 200 examined great ape specimens and also appears in the form of a divided distal articular surface in the Stw573c Australopithecus africanus specimen. Although various developmental pathways lead to medial cuneiform bipartition, it appears that the bipartite bone does not deviate significantly from normal overall morphology. Together, these data indicate that bipartition represents a phyletically old developmental variant of the medial cuneiform, which does not, however, affect the species‐specific morphology and function of this bone.
Long‐term dynamics of bird diversity in forest and suburb: decay, turnover or homogenization?
Authors: Catterall Carla P. , Cousin Jarrad A. , Piper Scott , Johnson Gayle
Published: May 2010

Aim  Urbanization and deforestation are important drivers of biodiversity change. However, long‐term changes in faunal communities within urbanizing regions are poorly understood. We investigated how well observed community changes in both space and time agree with expectations based on current paradigms in urban ecology.

Location  Greater Brisbane region, Australia.

Methods  We compared bird assemblages in two time‐periods 15 years apart, at multiple sites in remnant forest and residential suburbs across an urbanizing landscape. Differences in assemblage composition, species abundances and functional groupings were assessed within and between habitats.

Results  Compared with forest, suburbs in both time‐periods had over twice the total bird abundance, a different species composition, greater between‐site community similarity, a greater proportion of non‐native species and greater dominance by large‐bodied species. These differences corresponded with changes in sites whose habitat was converted from forest to suburb. Between time‐periods, abundances of 58% of suburban species changed significantly compared with those of 11% in forest. Increaser species outnumbered decreasers in suburbs, with the reverse in forest. Abundance of small‐bodied birds decreased 70% in suburbs and 20% in forest. Broad‐spectrum competitors and nest predators were common among suburban increasers. Among invasive species, the number of increasers was counterbalanced by decreasers. Both site‐scale species richness and between‐site community similarity increased to a small extent in both habitats.

Main conclusions  Species composition and ecological function of suburban bird communities were very dynamic. Suburban assemblages were neither a subset of forest species nor an increasingly non‐native compilation. Communities in large forest patches were comparatively stable. The notion of habitat‐specific species turnover better characterizes the nature of most changes than either species decline or homogenization, even though both of these were evident. There is considerable scope for careful urban planning, focused on both among‐ and within‐habitat variety, to sustain bird diversity in urbanizing landscapes.
Mechanisms of microtunneling in rock substrates: distinguishing endolithic biosignatures from abiotic microtunnels
Authors: MCLOUGHLIN N. , STAUDIGEL H. , FURNES H. , EICKMANN B. , IVARSSON M.
Published: May 2010

Rock‐dwelling, endolithic micro‐organisms can create tubular microcavities (TMCs) by the dissolution of rock substrates. Microtunnels can also conceivably be formed by abiotic processes, and collectively, these structures are here termed tubular microcavities. A textural record of life in subseafloor environments is provided by biological TMCs, and it is imperative to distinguish these from abiological tunnels. To this end, the morphologies and petrographic context of tunnels formed by chemical solution, physical abrasion, and biological processes are here described. Biological TMCs in volcanic glass are restricted to sites that were connected to early fluid circulation. Their shapes, distribution, and the absence of intersections exclude an origin by chemical dissolution of pre‐existing heterogeneities such as, radiation damage trails, gas‐escape structures, or fluid inclusion trails. Rather their characteristics are best explained by microbial dissolution, involving perhaps, cellular extensions that provide a mechanism of localizing and directing microtunnel formation as observed in terrestrial soils. Biological TMCs are contrasted with ambient inclusion trails (AITs) found in cherts and authigenic minerals. These differ in exhibiting longitudinal striae, a constant diameter, and polygonal cross‐section, sometimes with terminal inclusions. The origin(s) of AITs remain unclear but they are hypothesized to form by migration of crystalline or organic inclusions in sealed substrates, in contrast to biotic TMCs that form in open systems. We present diagnostic morphological and petrographic criteria for distinguishing these different types of TMCs. Moreover, we argue that AIT‐type processes are not viable in volcanic glass because of the absence of crystalline millstones, localized chemical solution agents, and elevated fluid pressures, necessary to drive this process.
Young People’s Experience of ADHD and Stimulant Medication: A Qualitative Study for the NICE Guideline
Authors: Singh Ilina , Kendall Tim , Taylor Clare , Mears Alex , Hollis Chris , Batty Martin , Keenan Sinead
Published: May 2010

Background:  The NICE ADHD Guideline Group found a lack of research evidence on young people’s experiences with stimulant medications. The present study was commissioned to help fill this gap in the evidence base and to inform the Guideline.

Method:  Focus groups and 1:1 interviews with 16 UK young people with ADHD.

Results:  Young people were positive about taking medication, feeling that it reduced their disruptive behaviour and improved their peer relationships. Young people experienced stigma but this was related more to their symptomatic behaviours than to stimulant drug medication.

Conclusions:  The study’s findings helped to inform the NICE guideline on ADHD by providing evidence that young people’s experiences of medication were in general more positive than negative. All NICE Guidelines involving recommendations for the treatment of young people should draw on research evidence of young people’s experiences of treatments.
A NEW DIRECT RADIOCARBON AMS DATE FOR AN UPPER PALAEOLITHIC HUMAN BONE FROM SIBERIA
Authors: AKIMOVA E. , HIGHAM T. , STASYUK I. , BUZHILOVA A. , DOBROVOLSKAYA M. , MEDNIKOVA M.
Published: May 2010

A new AMS radiocarbon date has been obtained from a Siberian human bone sample taken directly from a cranial fragment. The specimen comes from the north‐east Siberian site of Pokrovka 2 (55019′46.30″N, 92026′48.80″E). The remains consist of the anterior portion of the cranium or the superior part of the face; that is, the forehead and the roof of the eye sockets. Sadly, indifferent features of the frontal bone do not allow a confident diagnosis of the sex of the individual. The evidence suggests, however, that the remains are probably those of a young adult (teenager) and an anatomically modern human, rather than a Neanderthal. Radiocarbon dating was undertaken at the Oxford Radiocarbon Accelerator Unit (ORAU). The radiocarbon age determination of the bone fragment, 27 740 ± 150 bp (OxA‐19850), is one of the earliest direct dates for a modern human from Siberia. The Pokrovka cranial fragment dates to the middle Upper Palaeolithic of Eurasia and is broadly contemporary with the human remains from the famous eastern European site of Sunghir. When the radiocarbon age is compared with the Cariaco Basin 14C data set and the Greenland oxygen isotope record of NGRIP, it corresponds with Greenland Interstadial 5, a warmer phase of the Last Glacial period, although this is a preliminary conclusion, and is based on climate records that may or may not be wholly synchronous between the two locations.
Cutaneous Lymphoproliferative Disorder Complicating Infectious Mononucleosis in an Immunosuppressed Patient
Authors: Owen Cindy England , Callen Jeffrey P. , Bahrami Soon
Published: May 2010

Abstract:  Infectious mononucleosis is the syndrome produced by primary infection with Epstein‐Barr virus during adolescence or early adulthood. In immunosuppressed individuals, depressed T‐cell function allows the Epstein‐Barr virus‐driven B‐cell proliferation to continue unabated, potentially leading to a lymphoproliferative disorder. A 15‐year‐old girl with a history of ulcerative colitis treated with 6‐mercaptopurine and mesalamine presented with the acute onset of a rapidly enlarging, ulcerative nodule on her left lower eyelid 4 weeks following recovery from infectious mononucleosis. The biopsy revealed an Epstein‐Barr virus‐positive lymphoproliferative disorder. Systemic disease was absent. Following discontinuation of 6‐mercaptopurine, the patient was treated with two courses of intravenous cyclophosphamide. The lesion resolved completely and she remains disease free at 14 months following diagnosis. We report a solitary cutaneous lesion of an immunosuppression‐related lymphoproliferative disorder (IR‐LPD) occurring as a complication of infectious mononucleosis, and review the pathogenesis and reported cases of Epstein‐Barr virus‐related immunosuppression‐related lymphoproliferative disorder arising in the setting of inflammatory bowel disease. It is important for dermatologists and dermatopathologists to be aware of the occurrence of IR‐LPD in patients being treated for inflammatory conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease. Given the role of primary infection with Epstein‐Barr virus in the development of IR‐LPD, consideration may be given to assessing Epstein‐Barr virus status prior to initiating immunosuppressive therapy in young patients.
Pharmacologic Dissociation Between Impulsivity and Alcohol Drinking in High Alcohol Preferring Mice
Authors: Oberlin Brandon G. , Bristow Robert Evan , Heighton Meredith E. , Grahame Nicholas J.
Published: May 2010

Background:  Impulsivity is genetically correlated with, and precedes, addictive behaviors and alcoholism. If impulsivity or attention is causally related to addiction, certain pharmacological manipulations of impulsivity and/or attention may affect alcohol drinking, and vice versa. The current studies were designed to explore the relationship among impulsivity, drinking, and vigilance in selectively bred High Alcohol Preferring (HAP) mice, a line that has previously demonstrated both high impulsivity and high alcohol consumption. Amphetamine, naltrexone, and memantine were tested in a delay discounting (DD) task for their effects on impulsivity and vigilance. The same drugs and doses were also assessed for effects on alcohol drinking in a 2‐bottle choice test.

Methods:  HAP mice were subjected to a modified version of adjusting amount DD using 0.5‐second and 10‐second delays to detect decreases and increases, respectively, in impulsive responding. In 2 experiments, mice were given amphetamine (0.4, 0.8, or 1.2 mg/kg), naltrexone (3 and 10 mg/kg), and memantine (1 and 5 mg/kg) before DD testing. Another pair of studies used scheduled access, 2‐bottle choice drinking to assess effects of amphetamine (0.4, 1.2, or 3.0 mg/kg), naltrexone (3 and 10 mg/kg), and memantine (1 and 5 mg/kg) on alcohol consumption.

Results:  Amphetamine dose‐dependently reduced impulsivity and vigilance decrement in DD, but similar doses left alcohol drinking unaffected. Naltrexone and memantine decreased alcohol intake at doses that did not affect water drinking but had no effects on impulsivity or vigilance decrement in the DD task.

Conclusions:  Contrary to our hypothesis, none of the drugs tested here, while effective on either alcohol drinking or impulsivity, decreased both behaviors. These findings suggest that the genetic association between drinking and impulsivity observed in this population is mediated by mechanisms other than those targeted by the drugs tested in these studies.
Interactive Effects of Cumulative Stress and Impulsivity on Alcohol Consumption
Authors: Helen C. Fox , Keri L. Bergquist , Peihua Gu , Rajita Sinha
Published: May 2010

Background: Alcohol addiction may reflect adaptations to stress, reward, and regulatory brain systems. While extensive research has identified both stress and impulsivity as independent risk factors for drinking, few studies have assessed the interactive relationship between stress and impulsivity in terms of hazardous drinking within a community sample of regular drinkers.

Methods: One hundred and thirty regular drinkers (56M/74F) from the local community were assessed for hazardous and harmful patterns of alcohol consumption using the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT). All participants were also administered the Barratt Impulsiveness Scale (BIS‐11) as a measure of trait impulsivity and the Cumulative Stress/Adversity Checklist (CSC) as a comprehensive measure of cumulative adverse life events. Standard multiple regression models were used to ascertain the independent and interactive nature of both overall stress and impulsivity as well as specific types of stress and impulsivity on hazardous and harmful drinking.

Results: Recent life stress, cumulative traumatic stress, overall impulsivity, and nonplanning‐related impulsivity as well as cognitive and motor‐related impulsivity were all independently predictive of AUDIT scores. However, the interaction between cumulative stress and total impulsivity scores accounted for a significant amount of the variance, indicating that a high to moderate number of adverse events and a high trait impulsivity rating interacted to affect greater AUDIT scores. The subscale of cumulative life trauma accounted for the most variance in AUDIT scores among the stress and impulsivity subscales.

Conclusions: Findings highlight the interactive relationship between stress and impulsivity with regard to hazardous drinking. The specific importance of cumulative traumatic stress as a marker for problem drinking is also discussed.
Information Gathering and Marketing
Authors: Bar‐Isaac Heski , Caruana Guillermo , Cuñat Vicente
Published: May 2010

Consumers have only partial knowledge before making a purchase decision, but can acquire more‐detailed information. Marketing makes it easier or harder for these consumers to do so. When consumers are ex ante heterogeneous, the firm might choose an intermediate marketing strategy for two quite different reasons. First, as a nonprice means of discrimination—it can make information only partially available, in a way that induces some, but not all, consumers to acquire the information. Second, when the firm cannot commit to a given investment in ensuring quality, the marketing and pricing strategy can act as a commitment device.
Malnutrition‐inflammation‐coronary calcification in pediatric patients receiving chronic hemodialysis
Authors: SRIVATHS Poyyapakkam R. , SILVERSTEIN Douglas M. , LEUNG Jocelyn , KRISHNAMURTHY Rajesh , GOLDSTEIN Stuart L.
Published: May 2010

Malnutrition, inflammation, and renal osteodystrophy parameters with resultant coronary calcification (CC) are associated with increased cardiovascular mortality in adults. Previous pediatric studies demonstrated CC in children but none assessed for an association between inflammation, malnutrition, renal osteodystrophy, and CC. To assess CC, ultrafast computerized tomogram was obtained for 16 pediatric patients (6 females; median age 17.2 years; range 9.1–21.2 years) receiving hemodialysis for ≥2 months. Inflammation was assessed by serum IL‐6, IL‐8, and C‐reactive protein levels on the day of the computerized tomogram scan; nutrition parameters included serum albumin, cholesterol, the body mass index standard deviation score, and normalized protein catabolic rate. Renal osteodystrophy parameters included time‐averaged serum calcium, phosphorus, total PTH, and calcitriol/calcium dose. Patients received hemodialysis thrice‐weekly; mean single pool Kt/V 1.48±0.13; and mean normalized protein catabolic rate 1.27±0.17 g/kg/day. Five of 16 patients had CC. Patients with CC were older (19.1±2.1 vs. 15.4±3.1 months; P=0.03), had longer dialysis vintage (49.4±15.3 vs. 17.2±10.5 months, P=0.0002), lower serum cholesterol (122±17.7 vs. 160.4±10.6 mg/dL, P=0.02), and higher phosphorus (9.05±1.2 vs. 6.1±0.96 mg/dL, P=0.0001). Mean serum albumin and normalized protein catabolic rate did not differ for patients with CC. All patients had elevated IL‐6 and IL‐8 levels compared with healthy norms; the mean IL‐6, IL‐8, and C‐reactive protein levels were not different in patients with CC. Coronary calcification was prevalent in older children receiving maintenance hemodialysis with a longer dialysis vintage. Worse renal osteodystrophy control and malnutrition (low cholesterol) may contribute to CC development.
A transient epidermolysis bullosa simplex‐like phenotype associated with bexarotene treatment in a G138E KRT5 heterozygote
Authors: Trufant Joshua W. , Kreizenbeck Gretchen M. , Carlson Kacie R. , Muthusamy Viswanathan , Girardi Michael , Bosenberg Marcus W.
Published: May 2010

Basal keratinocyte lysis is the hallmark histopathological finding of epidermolysis bullosa simplex (EBS), a group of rare heritable mechanobullous disorders characterized by intraepidermal blister formation and skin fragility. Over 100 mutations, found predominantly in the genes encoding keratins 5 and 14 (KRT5, KRT14), have been described to account for a variety of clinical subtypes. EBS with mottled pigmentation (EBS‐MP) is a rare variant featuring childhood‐onset reticulate hyperpigmentation and focal palmoplantar keratoderma, typically associated with a P25L KRT5 mutation. In this report, we present the case of a 77‐year‐old woman with a history of palmoplantar keratoderma who developed a transient EBS‐MP‐like phenotype associated with bexarotene treatment for cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma. Genetic sequencing revealed a heterozygous G138E KRT5 variant, present in approximately 10% of the European population and only rarely associated with pathology. Bexarotene, which has been reported to alter keratin synthesis, caused vesiculobullous reactions with similar frequency in clinical trials. We propose that the cumulative effect of drug treatment and underlying G138E polymorphism resulted in transient basal keratinocyte lysis in our patient and provides a plausible explanation for this unusual bexarotene side effect.

Trufant JW, Kreizenbeck GM, Carlson KR, Muthusamy V, Girardi M, Bosenberg MW. A transient epidermolysis bullosa simplex‐like phenotype associated with bexarotene treatment in a G138E KRT5 heterozygote.
Changes in RPS14 expression levels during lenalidomide treatment in Low‐ and Intermediate‐1‐risk myelodysplastic syndromes with chromosome 5q deletion
Authors: Oliva Esther N. , Cuzzola Maria , Nobile Francesco , Ronco Francesca , D’Errigo Maria Grazia , Laganà Carmelo , Morabito Fortunato , Galimberti Sara , Cortelezzi Agostino , Aloe Spiriti Maria A. , Specchia Giorgina , Poloni Antonella , Breccia Massimo , Ghio Riccardo , Finelli Carlo , Iacopino Pasquale , Alimena Giuliana , Latagliata Roberto
Published: May 2010

Background:  Haploinsufficiency of the ribosomal protein S14 RPS14 gene, located in the common deleted region of chromosome 5q, is a potential causal factor of 5q− syndrome. Lenalidomide elicits high response rates and morphological improvements in myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS) patients with chromosome 5q deletion [del(5q)].

Methods:  To further evaluate the role of RPS14, its transcription was tested in bone marrow cells from 17 patients with International Prognostic Scoring System defined Low‐ or Intermediate‐1‐risk MDS with del(5q) as a single or additional cytogenetic abnormality receiving treatment with lenalidomide.

Results:  After 12 wk of lenalidomide treatment, erythroid responses were observed in all cases with an increase in hemoglobin levels of 2.7 ± 2.5 g/dL (up to a mean 11.8 ± 1.9 g/dL; P = 0.001). Before treatment, RPS14 expression levels were under‐expressed in 15 patients with respect to normal controls. After 12 wk of lenalidomide treatment, all patients had an erythroid response. There was a significant increase in median RPS14 expression from baseline 0.01 (IQR 0.05–0.31) to 12 wk 204.71‐fold (2.86–446.32; P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  These observations in the patient setting support the importance of RPS14 in the pathogenesis of MDS with del(5q).
Remifentanil in neonatal intensive care and anaesthesia practice
Authors: Penido Márcia Gomes , Garra Rossella , Sammartino Maria , Silva Yerkes Pereira e
Published: May 2010

Remifentanil is a relatively new ultrashort action synthetic opioid. Studies on the use of remifentanil in neonatology have emerged demonstrating its effectiveness and safety in neonates. The present study describes the use of remifentanil in both full‐term and premature newborns, highlighting the theoretical benefits for this population in terms of both neonatal intensive care and anaesthesia. A Medline search was undertaken of all reviews and reports about the use of remifentanil in neonates published between 1996 and 2009 using MeSH search terms ‘remifentanil’, ‘analgesia’, ‘anaesthesia’, ‘newborn’ and ‘neonate’. The review points that remifentanil has been used with advantages in newborns including preterm neonates and even for foetal anaesthesia. It proved to be a good option to attenuate the hemodynamic/endocrine markers of stress related to surgery. Owing to its unique pharmacokinetic profile, shorter extubation times can be achieved what makes the drug also a good option for short duration invasive procedures in NICUs (InSurE). A concern on its use is that the hemodynamic response (hypotension) may become significant when the drug is associated to other drugs like sevoflurane.

Conclusion:  Remifentanil seems to be an effective and safely used opioid for neonatal intensive care and anaesthesia practice.
Influences of Northern Leaf Blight on corn silage fermentation quality, nutritive value and feed intake by sheep
Authors: WANG Peng , SOUMA Kousaku , KOBAYASHI Yuki , IWABUCHI Kei , SATO Chihiro , MASUKO Takayoshi
Published: May 2010

This study examined the differences between non‐inoculated (control) corn and Northern Leaf Blight (NLB)‐damaged corn (inoculated corn); dry matter (DM) yield, silage fermentation quality, nutritive value and feed intake by sheep were compared. Leaf, stem and grain dry weights and gross yield of inoculated corn were significantly (P < 0.05) decreased compared with control corn. The contents of water‐soluble carbohydrate and nitrogen‐free extract (NFE) were decreased in inoculated corn compared with control corn. Silage made from both inoculated and control corn showed good fermentation quality. The digestibility of DM, organic matter, ether extract, NFE, and energy of silage made from inoculated corn were significantly (P < 0.05) lower, and contents of total digestible nutrients (TDN) and digestible energy (DE) were also significantly (P < 0.05) lower compared with silage made from the control corn. DM intake showed no significant discrepancy between the two types of silage. TDN and DE intakes from inoculated silage were significantly (P < 0.05) lower compared with control silage. From the above results it was shown that NLB caused a decrease in DM yield and NFE content in corn and a decrease in the nutritive value and feed intake of silage.
Survival mechanisms of pathogenic Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv
Authors: Meena Laxman S. , Rajni
Published: May 2010

Mycobacterium tuberculosis H37Rv is a highly successful pathogen and its success fully relies on its ability to utilize macrophages for its replication and, more importantly, the macrophage should remain viable to host the Mycobacterium. Despite the fact that these phagocytes are usually very effective in internalizing and clearing most of the bacteria, M. tuberculosis H37Rv has evolved a number of very effective survival strategies, including: (a) the inhibition of phagosome–lysosome fusion; (b) the inhibition of phagosome acidification; (c) the recruitment and retention of tryptophan‐aspartate containing coat protein on phagosomes to prevent their delivery to lysosomes; and (d) the expression of members of the host‐induced repetitive glycine‐rich protein family of proteins. However, the mechanisms by which M. tuberculosis H37Rv enters the host cell, circumvents host defenses and spreads to neighboring cell are not completely understood. Therefore, a better understanding of host–pathogen interaction is essential if the global tuberculosis pandemic is ever to be controlled. This review addresses some of the pathogenic strategies of the M. tuberculosis H37Rv that aids in its survival and pathogenicity.
Microcosm Assessment of Polaromonas sp. JS666 as a Bioaugmentation Agent for Degradation of cis‐1,2‐dichloroethene in Aerobic, Subsurface Environments
Authors: Giddings Cloelle G. S. , Liu Fang , Gossett James M.
Published: May 2010

Chlorinated ethenes such as tetrachloroethene and trichloroethene have been widely used as dry‐cleaning and degreasing solvents. Under anaerobic conditions, microorganisms reduce these parent compounds to less‐chlorinated daughter products such as cis‐1,2‐dichloroethene (cDCE), and often further to ethene. This process can be stalled at cDCE, due to insufficient supply of reductants and/or inadequate microbial‐community composition. Recently, a novel bacterium, Polaromonas sp. JS666, was isolated that is able to aerobically oxidize cDCE as sole carbon and energy source. As such, it is a promising candidate for use as a subsurface, bioaugmentation agent at sites where anaerobic bioremediation is inappropriate or has stalled and cDCE has migrated to, and accumulated within, aerobic zones, or where it is practical to impose aerobic conditions.

Subsurface sediments or groundwater from six such cDCE‐contaminated sites were used to construct microcosms. In every sediment or groundwater inoculated with JS666, the organism was able to degrade cDCE, provided that the pH remained circum‐neutral. Even when JS666 was challenged with an alternate carbon source, or in the presence of competitive/predatory microorganisms, there was a measure of success. Collectively, these microcosm studies suggest that JS666 is a viable candidate for the bioaugmentation of aerobic, cDCE‐contaminated sites. A minimum inoculation level in excess of 105 cells per mL is recommended for field applications. At this level of inoculation, 100 L of inoculum culture grown to an OD600 of 1.0 should be able to treat a 10‐m × 30‐m × 80‐m (24,000‐m3) plot.