bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The pharmacokinetics and safety of porfimer after repeated administration 30–45 days apart to patients undergoing photodynamic therapy
Authors: Pereira S. P. , Ayaru L. , Ackroyd R. , Mitton D. , Fullarton G. , Zammit M. , Grzebieniak Z. , Messmann H. , Ortner M.‐A. , Gao L. , Trinh M. M. , Spénard J.
Published: July 2010

Background  Porfimer is an intravenous (i.v.) injectable photosensitizing agent used in the photodynamic treatment of tumours and of high‐grade dysplasia in Barrett’s oesophagus.

Aim  To assess the pharmacokinetics as well as the safety profiles of porfimer after a first and a second dose administered 30–45 days apart in patients undergoing photodynamic therapy.

Methods  Nineteen patients (16 with cholangiocarcinoma) were enrolled. Porfimer sodium was administered by i.v. injection over 3–5 min. Blood samples were collected prior to starting i.v. drug injection and postdose at different time points after the first and second administrations.

Results  Porfimer exposure values after the second administration were statistically higher than those observed after the first administration, suggesting a slight accumulation of porfimer following repeated administration. The apparent mean elimination half‐life of porfimer increased from 410 h after the first administration to 725 h after the second administration. The safety profiles of porfimer after a first and a second administration were similar and did not raise additional concern. Eight patients experienced nine serious adverse events. Only photosensitivity was deemed study‐drug related.

Conclusion  Porfimer appears to display a safe and tolerable profile when used in patients requiring a second photodynamic therapy within 45 days.
The Patient Health Questionnaire 12 Somatic Symptom scale as a predictor of symptom severity and consulting behaviour in patients with irritable bowel syndrome and symptomatic diverticular disease
Authors: Spiller R. C. , Humes D. J. , Campbell E. , Hastings M. , Neal K. R. , Dukes G. E. , Whorwell P. J.
Published: July 2010

Background  Anxiety, depression and nongastrointestinal symptoms are often prominent in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), but their relative value in patient management has not been quantitatively assessed. We modified the Patient Health Questionnaire 15 (PHQ‐15) by excluding three gastrointestinal items to create the PHQ‐12 Somatic Symptom (PHQ‐12 SS) scale.

Aims  To compare the value of the PHQ‐12 SS scale with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression (HAD) scale in predicting symptoms and patient behaviour in IBS and diverticular disease.

Methods  We compared 151 healthy volunteers (HV), 319 IBS patients and 296 patients with diverticular disease (DD), 113 asymptomatic [ASYMPDD] and 173 symptomatic DD (SYMPDD).

Results  Patient Health Questionnaire 12 SS scores for IBS and SYMPDD were significantly higher than HV. Receiver–operator curves showed a PHQ‐12 SS >6, gave a sensitivity for IBS of 66.4% with a specificity of 94.7% and a positive likelihood ratio (PLR) = 13.2, significantly better than that associated with an HAD anxiety score >7, PLR = 3.0 and depression score >7 PLR = 6.5. PHQ‐12 SS correlated strongly with IBS severity scale and GP visits in both IBS and DD.

Conclusion  The PHQ‐12 SS scale is a useful clinical tool which correlates with patient behaviour in both IBS and symptomatic DD.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Ultrasonographic evaluation of the femoral vein in anaesthetised infants and young children
Authors: Suk E. H. , Lee K.‐Y. , Kweon T. D. , Jang Y.‐H. , Bai S. J.
Published: July 2010

We investigated the cross‐sectional area of the femoral vein and its relationship to the femoral artery at two anatomical levels, in infants and children. Sixty‐six subjects were allocated to one of two groups: infants (< 1 year, n = 31) or children (1–6 years, n = 35). After induction of general anaesthesia, the femoral vein was evaluated by ultrasound with the patients’ legs at 30° and 60° of abduction and their hips externally rotated. In each position, measurements were taken at the level of the inguinal crease and 1 cm below the crease. Hip rotation with 60° leg abduction decreased femoral artery overlap at the level of the inguinal crease in both infants (p = 0.013) and children (p = 0.003). Thus, the optimal place for femoral vein cannulation in paediatric patients seems to be at the level of the inguinal crease with 60° leg abduction and external hip rotation.
ORIGINAL ARTICLE: Comparison of guided insertion of the LMA ProSeal™ vs the i‐gel™
Authors: Gasteiger L. , Brimacombe J. , Perkhofer D. , Kaufmann M. , Keller C.
Published: July 2010

In a randomised, non‐crossover study, we tested the hypothesis that the ease of insertion using a duodenal tube guided insertion technique and the oropharyngeal leak pressure differ between the LMA ProSeal™ and the i‐gel™ in non‐paralysed, anesthetised female subjects. One hundred and fifty‐two females aged 19–70 years were studied. Insertion success rate, insertion time and oropharyngeal leak pressure were measured. First attempt and overall insertion success were similar (LMA ProSeal, 75/76 (99%) and 76/76 (100%); i‐gel 73/75 (97%) and 75 (100%), respectively). Mean (SD) insertion times were similar (LMA ProSeal, 40 (16) s; i‐gel 43 (21) s). Mean oropharyngeal leak pressure was 7 cmH2O higher with the LMA ProSeal (p < 0.0001). Insertion of the LMA ProSeal and i‐gel is similarly easy using a duodenal tube guided technique, but the LMA ProSeal forms a more effective seal for ventilation.
Advances in understanding the aetiology of atypical Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome
Authors: Sánchez‐Corral Pilar , Melgosa Marta
Published: July 2010

Atypical Haemolytic Uraemic Syndrome (aHUS) is a thrombotic microangiopathy that often provokes irreversible renal damage and post‐transplantation recurrence. Studies performed during the last decade have shown that 50–60% of aHUS patients present genetic or acquired defects in the complement system that enhance the initial endothelial damage and favour disease development. This review analyses the complement proteins and processes that are disturbed in aHUS patients, and outlines the relevance of a prompt genetic/molecular diagnosis for improving clinical management and prognosis.
Phase II trial of zanolimumab (HuMax‐CD4) in relapsed or refractory non‐cutaneous peripheral T cell lymphoma
Authors: D’Amore Francesco , Radford John , Relander Thomas , Jerkeman Mats , Tilly Hervé , Österborg Anders , Morschhauser Franck , Gramatzki Martin , Dreyling Martin , Bang Bo , Hagberg Hans
Published: July 2010

The efficacy and safety of zanolimumab (HuMax‐CD4) in patients with relapsed or refractory peripheral T Cell lymphoma (PTCL) was evaluated. Twenty‐one adult patients with relapsed or refractory CD4+ PTCL of non‐cutaneous type (angioimmunoblastic T cell lymphoma (AITL) n = 9, PTCL‐not otherwise specified (NOS) n = 7, anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL) n = 4 and enteropathy type T cell lymphoma n = 1) were treated in a single‐arm multi‐centre study, with weekly intravenous infusions of zanolimumab 980 mg for 12 weeks. Median age was 69 years (range 26–85). Seventeen of the patients had advanced stage disease (Ann Arbor stages III–IV). Objective tumour responses were obtained in 24% of the patients with two complete responses unconfirmed (CRu) and three partial responses (PR). One of the CRus lasted more than 252 d. Responses were obtained in different PTCL entities: AITL (n = 3), ALCL (n = 1) and PTCL‐NOS (n = 1). In general, the trial drug was well tolerated with no major toxicity. Zanolimumab at a dose of 980 mg weekly demonstrated clinical activity and an acceptable safety profile in this poor‐prognosis patient population, suggesting that the potential benefit combining zanolimumab with standard chemotherapy in the treatment of PTCL should be investigated.
Sleep problems and daytime tiredness in Finnish preschool‐aged children‐a community survey
Authors: Simola P. , Niskakangas M. , Liukkonen K. , Virkkula P. , Pitkäranta A. , Kirjavainen T. , Aronen E. T.
Published: July 2010

Background  Sleep is important to the well‐being and development of children. Specially, small children are vulnerable to the effects of inadequate sleep. However, not much is known about the frequency of all types of sleep problems and daytime tiredness in preschool‐aged children.

Objective  To evaluate the prevalence of a wide spectrum of sleep problems, daytime tiredness and associations between these in 3‐ to 6‐year‐old Finnish children.

Methods  A population‐based study where parents of 3‐ to 6‐year‐old children (n= 904) living in Helsinki filled in the Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children (SDSC).

Results  Of the children, 45% had at least one sleep‐related problem occurring at least three times a week: 14.1% were unwilling to go to bed, 10.2% had difficulties in falling asleep, 10.2% had bruxism, 6.4% sleep talking, 2.1% sleep terrors, 8.2% had sleep‐related breathing problem, 11.2% had excessive sweating while falling asleep and 12.9% excessive sweating during sleep. Age and gender were related to phenotype of the sleeping problems. In multiple regression analysis, the difficulties in initiating and maintaining sleep were most strongly associated with tiredness in the morning and during the day.

Conclusions  Different types of sleep problems are frequent in preschool‐aged children. Poor sleep quality is associated with morning and daytime tiredness. In screening for sleep problems in children, attention should be paid not only to sleep amount but also to sleep quality.
The impact of eating habits on anthropometric characteristics in French primary school children
Authors: Isacco L. , Lazaar N. , Ratel S. , Thivel D. , Aucouturier J. , Doré E. , Meyer M. , Duché P.
Published: July 2010

Background  Obesity is increasing worldwide, reaching alarming proportions. Eating habits have changed over time and nowadays children and adolescents' environment favours the adoption of unhealthy eating behaviours leading to metabolic impairment.

Objective  To explore the impact of eating risk factors and their cumulative effect on anthropometric characteristics in French primary school children.

Methods  A total of 278 healthy French children (7.50 ± 0.67 years old) and their legal representatives agreed to take part in this study. Parents were asked to fill in an eating habits clinical questionnaire with questions about skipping breakfast, snacking between meals, eating in front of the TV and sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption. On the basis of the answers, children were classified into four categories as a function of the number of eating risk factors they presented. Body mass index (BMI), the sum of four skinfolds (Σ4 skinfolds: tricipital, bicipital, sub‐scapular and supra‐iliac) and waist circumference (WC) were measured. BMI was transformed into z‐BMI for each child.

Results  anova and unpaired t‐test provided significantly higher z‐BMI, Σ4 skinfolds and WC in children who were used to skipping breakfast, snacking, watching TV while eating and consuming sugar‐sweetened beverages. The more children accumulated eating risk factors, the higher were their z‐BMI, Σ4 skinfolds and WC (manova: P < 0.001).

Conclusions  Eating habits appear to be associated with anthropometric characteristics in French primary school children. Anthropometric values (z‐BMI, Σ4 skinfolds and WC) increased with the number of eating risk factors they presented.
Involvement of T helper type 17 and regulatory T cell activity in tumour immunology of bladder carcinoma
Authors: Chi L J , Lu H T , Li G L , Wang X M , Su Y , Xu W H , Shen B Z
Published: July 2010

T helper type 17 (Th17) and regulatory T cells (Treg) play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammation and autoimmune disorders. Recent studies have suggested that they also had an impact on tumour immunology. However, the relationship between Th17 and Treg cells in the pathogenesis of bladder carcinoma is still unclear. Flow cytometry was used to analyse the numbers, phenotype and cytokine production of Th17 cells in peripheral blood and tumour tissue from bladder carcinoma patients, in parallel with analysis of Treg cells. The suppressor capacity of Treg and the potential effects of interleukin (IL)-2 on the differentiation of Th17 and Treg cells in vitro were studied in a T cell stimulation and suppression assays. The results were as follows: Th17 cells were enriched in the tumours of patients with bladder carcinoma compared with the peripheral blood of patients and controls; patients with bladder carcinoma had a higher proportion of Treg cells in peripheral blood compared with healthy controls and nearly all patients examined showed a relative enrichment of tumour-infiltrating Treg with respect to peripheral blood; there appeared to be an inverse relationship between tumour-infiltrating Th17 and Treg cells; IL-2 could convert tumour-infiltrating Treg cells cultured in the presence of the autologous irradiated CD3– fraction into Th17 cells, down-regulate forkhead box P2 expression and suppressive capacity of Treg cells. This study is the first to define the frequency and characteristics of Th17 cells in bladder carcinoma. We suggest that the balance between Th17 and Treg cells may be involved in the development or progression of bladder carcinoma.
NOD2polymorphisms in clinical phenotypes of common variable immunodeficiency disorders
Authors: Packwood K , Drewe E , Staples E , Webster D , Witte T , Litzman J , Egner W , Sargur R , Sewell W , Lopez-Granados E , Seneviratne S L , Powell R J , Ferry B L , Chapel H M
Published: July 2010

Common variable immunodeficiency disorders (CVIDs) are a heterogeneous group of diseases characterized by hypogammaglobulinaemia and consequent susceptibility to infection. CVID patients commonly develop a variety of additional manifestations for which the causative factors are not fully understood. Two such manifestations are granulomatous disease and enteropathy. Because the ability to predict complications would aid clinical management, we continue to search for possible disease modifier genes. NOD2 acts a microbial sensor and is involved in proinflammatory signalling. Particular mutations of the NOD2 gene are associated with Crohn's disease including gly908arg, leu1007finsc and arg702trp polymorphisms. We hypothesized that NOD2 polymorphisms may be a disease modifier gene towards an enteropathic or granulomatous phenotype within CVIDs. Sequence-specific primers returned genotypes for 285 CVID patients from centres across the United Kingdom and Europe. We present the frequencies of the different phenotypes of patients within our international cohort. Arg702trp polymorphisms were significantly less frequent than wild-type (WT) (P = 0·038) among international CVID patients with splenomegaly. Gly908arg polymorphisms were more prevalent than WT in UK patients with autoimmune disorders (P = 0·049) or enteropathy (P = 0·049). NOD2 polymorphisms were not more prevalent than WT in CVID patients with clinical phenotypes of granulomata. UK allele frequencies of 0·014, 0·056 and 0·026 were found for gly908arg, arg702trp and leu1007finsc NOD2 polymorphisms, respectively. These do not differ significantly from UK immunocompetent controls confirming, as expected, that in addition these NOD2 polymorphisms do not confer susceptibility to CVIDs per se.
Increased programmed death-ligand-1 expression in human gastric epithelial cells inHelicobacter pyloriinfection
Authors: Wu Y-Y , Lin C-W , Cheng K-S , Lin C , Wang Y-M , Lin I-T , Chou Y-H , Hsu P-N
Published: July 2010

B7-H1 [programmed death-ligand-1 (PD-L1)] is a B7-family member that binds to programmed death-1 (PD-1). Recently, deficiency of PD-L1 has been demonstrated to result in accelerated gastric epithelial cell damage in gastritis, and PD-L1 is suggested to play a critical role in regulating T cell homeostasis. Here, we aimed to gain more insight into gastric PD-L1 expression, regulation and function during Helicobacter pylori infection. PD-L1 expression in human gastric epithelial cells was analysed using Western blotting, quantitative polymerase chain reaction and fluorescence activated cell sorter analysis. Furthermore, co-culture experiments of human gastric epithelial cells with primary human T cells or Jurkat T cells were conducted. PD-L1 expression in primary human gastric epithelial cells was strongly enhanced by H. pylori infection and activated T cells, and augmented markedly by further stimulation with interferon-γ or tumour necrosis factor-α. Moreover, PD-L1 expression in gastric epithelial cells significantly induced apoptosis of T cells. Our results indicate that a novel bidirectional interaction between human gastric epithelial cells and lymphocytes modulates PD-L1 expression in human gastric epithelial cells, contributing to the unique immunological properties of the stomach.
Thiopurine metabolism monitoring: implications in inflammatory bowel diseases
Authors: Dewit Olivier , Starkel Peter , Roblin Xavier
Published: July 2010

Eur J Clin Invest 2010; 40 (11): 1037–1047

Background  Thiopurines (TP) are widely used in the management of inflammatory bowel diseases. Side effects and inefficacy are a major concern as they lead to withdrawal of the drug.

Materials and Methods  Tools investigating TP metabolism are useful to avoid inadequate cessation of TP therapy.

Results  TP metabolism is complex and many enzymes are involved. Among them, Thiopurine methyl transferase is the only one routinely measured by pheno‐ or genotyping. A decreased TPMT activity results in a potential overdosing of TP drugs leading to myelotoxicity, whereas an ultra‐high activity leads to TP ineffectiveness and overproduction of methylated compounds responsible for hepatotoxicity. TPMT determination prior to TP treatment results in an individual adapted dose. Xanthine oxidase/dehydrogenase (XOD), inosine triphosphate pyrophosphatase (ITPA) and glutathion‐S‐transferase (GST) are other promising enzyme targets that might help to explain TP efficacy or toxicity. ITPA and GST polymorphisms might potentially be related to some TP side effects, while a XOD inhibition by allopurinol could avoid TP‐related hepatotoxicity.

Conclusions  Utilization of thiopurine metabolites, 6‐thioguanine nucleotides and 6‐methylmercaptopurine, is discussed, specifically, in case of thiopurine failure and recommendations are given about their interpretation and potential dose optimization. These enzymes and metabolites tests are complementary to the regular monitoring of blood cells count and liver tests which remains mandatory.
KIAA1718 is a histone demethylase that erases repressive histone methyl marks
Authors: Yokoyama Atsushi , Okuno Yosuke , Chikanishi Toshihiro , Hashiba Waka , Sekine Hiroki , Fujiki Ryoji , Kato Shigeaki
Published: July 2010

The methylation states of histone lysine residues are regarded as significant epigenetic marks governing transcriptional regulation. A number of histone demethylases containing a jumonji C (JmjC) domain have been recognized; however, their properties remain to be investigated. Here, we show that KIAA1718, a PHF2/PHF8 subfamily member, possesses histone demethylase activity specific for H3K9 and H3K27, transcriptionally repressive histone marks. Biochemical purification of the KIAA1718 interactants reveals that KIAA1718 forms complexes with several factors including KAP1, a transcriptional co‐activator. Consistent with these findings, KIAA1718 shows a transcriptional activation function in the chromatin context. Thus, our study identifies KIAA1718 as a histone demethylase for repressive methyl marks and shows that it is involved in transcriptional activation.
Apatite‐forming ability (bioactivity) of ProRoot MTA
Authors: Gandolfi M. G. , Taddei P. , Tinti A. , Prati C.
Published: July 2010

Gandolfi MG, Taddei P, Tinti A, Prati C. Apatite‐forming ability (bioactivity) of ProRoot MTA. International Endodontic Journal, 43, 917–929, 2010.

Aim  Apatite‐forming ability, considered as an index of bioactivity (bond‐to‐bone ability), was tested on ProRoot MTA cement after immersion in phosphate‐containing solution (DPBS).

Methodology  Disk samples were prepared and immersed in DPBS for 10 min, 5 h, 1 and 7 days. The cement surface was studied by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy, by micro‐Raman spectroscopy and by environmental scanning electron microscope with energy dispersive X‐ray (ESEM‐EDX) analyses. The pH of the storage solution was also investigated.

Results  Spectroscopic analyses revealed calcium phosphate bands after 5‐h immersion in DPBS. After 1 day, an even coating composed of apatite spherulites (0.1–0.8 micron diameter) was observed by ESEM/EDX. After 7 days, its thickness had increased. Apatite nucleation had already occurred after 5‐h immersion. At this time, the presence of portlandite (i.e. Ca(OH)2, calcium hydroxide) on the cement surface was also observed; at longer times, this component was released into the medium, which underwent a remarkable pH increase.

Conclusions  The study confirms the ability of ProRoot MTA to form a superficial layer of apatite within hours. The excellent bioactivity of ProRoot MTA might provide a significant clinical advantage over the traditional cements used for root‐end or root‐perforation repair.
Cytotoxicity of dentine bonding agents on human pulp cells is related to intracellular glutathione levels
Authors: Huang F.‐M. , Li Y.‐C. , Lee S.‐S. , Chang Y.‐C.
Published: July 2010

Huang F‐M, Li Y‐C, Lee S‐S, Chang Y‐C. Cytotoxicity of dentine bonding agents on human pulp cells is related to intracellular glutathione levels. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To evaluate ex vivo the mechanisms of cytotoxicity of dentine bonding agents in human pulp cells in vitro.

Methodology  Human pulp cells were obtained from impacted third molars with informed consent and then cultured using an explant technique. Set specimens from Clearfil SE Bond (CB), Prime & Bond 2.1 (PB), and Single Bond (SB) were eluted with culture medium. Cytotoxicity was judged using an assay of tetrazolium bromide reduction. To determine whether glutathione (GSH) levels were important in the cytotoxicity of dentine bonding agents, cells were pretreated with 2‐oxothiazolidine‐4‐carboxylic acid (OTZ) to boost GSH levels or buthionine sulfoximine (BSO) to deplete GSH. Three replicates of each dentine bonding agents were performed in each test. All assays were repeated three times to ensure reproducibility. Statistical analysis was by one‐way analysis of variance (anova). Tests of differences of the treatments were analysed by Duncan’s test.

Results  Clearfil SE Bond, PB, and SB were cytotoxic to pulp cells in a concentration‐dependent manner (P < 0.05). The cytotoxicity was upregulated by dentine bonding agents in the following order: PB > SB > CB. Addition of OTZ extracellularly protected the pulp cells from dentine bonding agents–induced cytotoxicity (P < 0.05). Addition of BSO enhanced pulp cell death on dentine bonding agents–induced cytotoxicity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  Dentine bonding agents have significant potential for pulpal toxicity. GSH depletion could be the mechanism for dentine bonding agents–induced cytotoxicity.
Does size matter? An investigation of habitat use across a carnivore assemblage in the Serengeti, Tanzania
Authors: Durant Sarah M. , Craft Meggan E. , Foley Charles , Hampson Katie , Lobora Alex L. , Msuha Maurus , Eblate Ernest , Bukombe John , Mchetto John , Pettorelli Nathalie
Published: July 2010

1. This study utilizes a unique data set covering over 19 000 georeferenced records of species presence collected between 1993 and 2008, to explore the distribution and habitat selectivity of an assemblage of 26 carnivore species in the Serengeti–Ngorongoro landscape in northern Tanzania.

2. Two species, the large‐spotted genet and the bushy‐tailed mongoose, were documented for the first time within this landscape. Ecological Niche Factor Analysis (ENFA) was used to examine habitat selectivity for 18 of the 26 carnivore species for which there is sufficient data. Eleven ecogeographical variables (EGVs), such as altitude and habitat type, were used for these analyses.

3. The ENFA demonstrated that species differed in their habitat selectivity, and supported the limited ecological information already available for these species, such as the golden jackals’ preference for grassland and the leopards’ preference for river valleys.

4. Two aggregate scores, marginality and tolerance, are generated by the ENFA, and describe each species’ habitat selectivity in relation to the suite of EGVs. These scores were used to test the hypothesis that smaller species are expected to be more selective than larger species [Science, 1989,243, 1145]. Two predictions were tested: Marginality should decrease with body mass; and tolerance should increase with body mass. Our study provided no evidence for either prediction.

5. Our results not only support previous analyses of carnivore diet breadth, but also represent a novel approach to the investigation of habitat selection across species assemblages. Our method provides a powerful tool to explore similar questions in other systems and for other taxa.
Predator identity and the nature and strength of food web interactions
Authors: Henry Lee M. , Bannerman Jordan A. , Gillespie David R. , Roitberg Bernard D.
Published: July 2010

1. Most trophic interaction theory assumes that all predators are an abstract form of risk to which prey respond in a quantitatively similar manner. This conceptualization can be problematic because recent empirical work demonstrates that variation in the responses of prey to different predators can play a key role in structuring communities and regulating ecosystem function.

2. Predator identity – the species specific response of prey to a predator – has been proposed as an ultimate mechanism driving the relative contribution of indirect effects in food webs; however few studies have explicitly tested this hypothesis.

3. This study explores the impact of predator identity on direct consumptive (CE) and non‐consumptive effects (NCEs), and on the relative contribution of indirect, density and trait‐mediated effects in trophic cascades within host‐parasitoid communities.

4. We systematically compared the individual, host‐parasitoid‐plant interactions of two actively foraging parasitoid species with disparate foraging styles, one aggressive and one furtive, a common aphid host and plant. Our results demonstrate that the degree of risk aversion by prey to each particular predator species (i.e. predator identity) is a key factor driving the nature and strength of direct and indirect transmission pathways.

5. Both parasitoid species, in general, had a negative impact on plants. The magnitude of the aphid anti‐predator dispersal response was positively correlated with plant infestation and plant damage. The qualitative effect of predator‐induced infestation of new plants superseded the quantitative effects of predator‐mediated reductions in aphid numbers.

6. The greatest indirect impact on plants was generated by the aggressively foraging parasitoid, and the strength of the aphids anti‐predator response (a NCE) antagonistically traded‐off with CEs due to an increased investment in attempting to capture risk‐sensitized prey. In contrast, the furtive parasitoid did not elicit a strong anti‐predator response, had little indirect impact on plants, but generated very high CEs due to the advantage of ovipositing into a sedentary prey population.

7. Our data suggest the responses of prey to different predatory cues may be an important mechanism driving the relative contribution of transmission pathways in trophic cascades. We conclude that predator identity is a key factor influencing the nature and strength of food web interactions.
Food supplementation leads to bottom‐up and top‐down food–host–parasite interactions
Authors: Zanette Liana , Clinchy Michael
Published: July 2010

1. Food–prey–predator interactions may involve both ‘bottom‐up’ and ‘top‐down’ processes. Conventionally, food–host–parasite interactions have been seen as governed solely from the ‘bottom‐up’, i.e. well‐fed hosts can better resist parasites and so suffer less parasitism. Recent studies on diverse endo‐ and ecto‐parasites increasingly highlight that well‐fed hosts provide parasites with a better resource base, and so may be more likely to be parasitized.

2. Brood parasites exploit host parental behaviour by laying their eggs in others’ nests. The brown‐headed cowbird (Molothrus ater) is a North American brood parasite that exploits over 100 host species.

3. We conducted a food addition experiment on song sparrows (Melospiza melodia), a frequently parasitized cowbird host, near Victoria, BC, Canada. We expected results consistent with conventional ‘bottom‐up’ effects because we previously found that food supplemented sparrows better eluded nest predation, and we thus also expected them to be better at eluding cowbird parasitism.

4. Here, we report results to the contrary. Food supplemented sparrows were parasitized as often as non‐food supplemented sparrows, were multiply parasitized significantly more often, and suffered significantly more parasitism‐induced egg loss. Our results suggest cowbirds preferentially parasitized better fed hosts and cowbirds benefited from doing so as food supplemented sparrows fledged significantly more cowbird young per multiply parasitized nest. The pattern of egg loss also accorded with recent evidence indicating that cowbirds may remove just the right number of host eggs to maximize provisioning of the cowbird nestling.

5. Our work suggests that brood parasitism in vertebrates involves both ‘top‐down’ and ‘bottom‐up’ processes consistent with the growing number of studies showing that food–host–parasite interactions are more complex than previously thought. One of the conservation implications of our results is that greater food availability may not provide hosts a respite from brood parasitism, but is, nonetheless, beneficial overall.
The linear shade guide design of Vita 3D‐master performs as well as the original design of the Vita 3D‐master
Authors: CORCODEL N. , RAMMELSBERG P. , JAKSTAT H. , MOLDOVAN O. , SCHWARZ S. , HASSEL A. J.
Published: July 2010

Summary  Visual tooth colour assessment by use of the Vita 3D‐Master® (3D; Vita Zahnfabrik, Bad Säckingen, Germany) is well documented. To improve handling, a new linear arrangement of the shade tabs has been introduced (LG; Linearguide 3D‐Master®). The purpose of this study was to investigate whether the linear design has an effect on shade matching. Fifty‐six students underwent identical, theoretical and practical training, by use of an Internet learning module [Toothguide Training Software® (TT)] and a standardised training programme [Toothguide Training Box® (TTB)]. Each student then matched 30 randomly chosen shade tabs presented in an intra‐oral setting by a standardised device [Toothguide Check Box® (TCB)]; 15 matches were made using the 3D and 15 using the LG shade guide system, under a daylight lamp (840 matches for each guide). It was recorded to what extent the presented and selected shade tabs, or the lightness group of the tabs, matched, also the needed time for colour matching. The results showed that 35% of perfect matches were observed for the 3D and 32% for the LG. The lightness group was correct in 59% of cases for 3D and 56% for LG. Mean time needed for matching of tabs and lightness group was no different between groups (no significant difference for any assessment). Within the limitations of the study design, the colour assessment with regard to performance and time needed in shade matching was not different with the LG or the 3D. Therefore, the user should choose which shade tab arrangement is more applicable.
Determination and kinetics of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in Tra catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) using a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry method
Authors: DANYI S. , WIDART J. , DOUNY C. , DANG P. K. , BAIWIR D. , WANG N. , TU H. T. , TUNG V. T. , PHUONG N.‐T. , KESTEMONT P. , SCIPPO M.‐L.
Published: July 2010

Danyi, S., Widart, J., Douny, C., Dang, P.K., Baiwir, D., Wang, N., Tu, H.T., Tung, V.T., Phuong, N.‐T., Kestemont, P., Scippo, M.‐L. Determination and kinetics of enrofloxacin and ciprofloxacin in Tra catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) using a liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry method. J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap. 34, 142–152.

The fluoroquinolones enrofloxacin (EF) and ciprofloxacin (CF) residues were investigated in the edible tissues of two important Asian aquacultured species such as Tra catfish (Pangasianodon hypophthalmus) and giant freshwater prawn (Macrobrachium rosenbergii) using a sensitive liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry method. Fish and prawn were treated with medicated feed with multiple doses of EF, in field conditions. A validation study of the analytical method was realized in terms of linearity, specificity, precision (repeatability and within‐laboratory reproducibility), recovery and decision limit (CCα). The time needed before the antibiotic disappears from animal tissues or reach the maximum residue limit (MRL, 100 μg/kg) was assessed. The concentration values of EF detected in Tra catfish tissue were between the MRL and 2 × MRL concentrations, according to the fish density, 7 days following the end of the enrofloxacin treatment (20 mg/kg body weight per day, for seven consecutive days). The concentration value of ER in prawn tissue was lower than the MRL and the limit of quantification (LOQ, 14 μg/kg) 5 and 7 days after the stop of the EF treatment (50 mg/kg body weight per day, for five consecutive days), respectively. The mean detected levels of CF was much lower in comparison with that of EF, indicating that only a small part of EF is metabolized into CF (<5%) in both Tra catfish and prawn.
Enantioselective pharmacokinetics of ketoprofen in piglets: the significance of neonatal age
Authors: FOSSE T. K. , HORSBERG T. E. , HAGA H. A. , HORMAZABAL V. , RANHEIM B.
Published: July 2010

Fosse, T.K., Horsberg, T.E., Haga, H.A., Hormazabal, V., Ranheim, B. Enantioselective pharmacokinetics of ketoprofen in piglets: the significance of neonatal age.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 153–159.

Following intravenous dose of 6 mg/kg racemic ketoprofen, the chiral pharmacokinetics of ketoprofen was investigated in eight piglets aged 6 and 21 days old. S‐ketoprofen predominated over R‐ketoprofen in plasma of the piglets in both age groups. The volumes of distribution of S‐ketoprofen for the 6‐ and 21‐day‐old piglets were 241.7 (211.3–276.5) mL/kg and 155.0 (138.7–173.1) mL/kg, respectively, while the corresponding parameters for R‐ketoprofen were 289.2 (250.3–334.2) mL/kg and 193.0 (168.7–220.8) mL/kg. The clearances of R‐ketoprofen [948.4 (768.0–1171.2) mL/h/kg and 425 (319.1–566.0) mL/h/kg for the 6‐ and 21‐day‐old piglets, respectively] were significantly higher compared to the clearances of S‐ketoprofen [57.3 (46.6–70.4) mL/h/kg and 33.8 (27.0–42.2) mL/h/kg for 6‐ and 21‐day‐old piglets, respectively]. The elimination half‐life of S‐ketoprofen was 3.4 h for both age groups, while the elimination half‐life of R‐ketoprofen was 0.2 h for the 6‐day‐old and 0.4 h for the 21‐day‐old piglets. The clearances of both R‐ and S‐ketoprofen were significantly higher in the 6‐day‐old piglets compared to when they were 21 days old. Furthermore, the volumes of distribution were larger in the youngest age group.
Penetration of oxytetracycline into the nasal secretions and relationship between nasal secretions and plasma oxytetracycline concentrations after oral and intramuscular administration in healthy pigs
Authors: BIMAZUBUTE M. , CAMBIER C. , BAERT K. , VANBELLE S. , CHIAP P. , GUSTIN P.
Published: July 2010

Bimazubute, M., Cambier, C., Baert, K., Vanbelle, S., Chiap, P., Gustin, P. Penetration of oxytetracycline into the nasal secretions and relationship between nasal secretions and plasma oxytetracycline concentrations after oral and intramuscular administration in healthy pigs.J. vet. Pharmacol. Therap.34, 176–183.

The penetration of oxytetracycline (OTC) in plasma and nasal secretions of healthy pigs was evaluated during the first study, in response to oral dose of 20 mg of OTC per kg of body weight (bwt) per day as a 400 mg/kg feed medication (n = 5) and to intramuscular (i.m.)‐administered formulations at 10 mg/kg bwt (n = 5), 20 mg/kg bwt (n = 5), 40 mg/kg bwt (n = 5). Concentrations of OTC in plasma and nasal secretions were determined by a validated ultra‐high performance liquid chromatography associated to tandem mass spectrometry method (UPLC/MS/MS). The objectives were to select the efficacy treatment and to evaluate the possibility to predict nasal secretions concentrations from those determined in plasma. The animals were housed together in each experiment. In each group, the treatment was administered once daily during 6 consecutive days, and nasal secretions and plasma were collected after 4 and 24 h at day 2 and day 6. For oral administration, only one medicated feed was prepared and distributed to all the animals together and was consumed in approximately 1 h. To meet recommendations of efficacy for OTC in nasal secretions, only the i.m. of 40 mg/kg bwt associated to an inter‐dosing interval of 24 h provides and maintains concentrations in nasal secretions ≥1 μg/mL, appropriate to the MIC 50 and 90 ofPasteurella multocida and Bordetella bronchiseptica, respectively, the main pathological strains in nasal secretions. It has been demonstrated that, using a generalized linear mixed model (GLMM), OTC in the nasal secretions (μg/mL) can be predicted taking into account the OTC concentrations in plasma (μg/mL), according to the following equation: OTCnasal secretions = 0.28 OTCplasma−1.49. In a second study, the pharmacokinetic behaviour of OTC in plasma and nasal secretions of healthy pigs was investigated, after single‐dose i.m. of 40 mg/kg bwt of the drug. Blood samples and nasal secretions were collected at predetermined times after drug administration. The data collected in 10 pigs for OTC were subjected to non‐compartmental analysis. In plasma, the maximum concentration of drug (Cmax), the time at which this maximum concentration of drug (Tmax) was reached, the elimination half‐life (t½) and the area under the concentration vs. time curve (AUC) were, respectively, 19.4 μg/mL, 4.0, 5.1 h and 150 μg·h/mL. In nasal secretions,Cmax,Tmax,t½ and AUC were, respectively, 6.29 μg/mL, 4.0, 6.6 h and 51.1 μg·h/mL.
Cyclosporine A: impact on mitochondrial function in endothelial cells
Authors: Illsinger Sabine , Janzen Nils , Lücke Thomas , Bednarczyk Jolanthe , Schmidt Karl‐Heinz , Hoy Ludwig , Sander Johannes , Das Anibh M.
Published: July 2010

Illsinger S, Janzen N, Lücke T, Bednarczyk J, Schmidt K‐H, Hoy L, Sander J, Das AM. Cyclosporine A: impact on mitochondrial function in endothelial cells. Clin Transplant 2011: 25: 584–593. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract: Introduction: Although cyclosporine A (CSA) is considered to be an efficient immunosuppressive compound in transplantation, vascular side effects like arterial hypertension, neurologic complications and other adverse reactions occur. Interference of CSA with mitochondrial function may be responsible for these side effects.

Methods: We evaluated the effect of CSA on mitochondrial and glycolytic function by measuring fatty acid oxidation (FAO), activities of respiratory chain complexes (RC) and citratesynthase (CS), lactate/pyruvate‐ratios, energy‐rich phosphates as well as activities of some glycolytic enzymes in human umbilical vein endothelial cells.

Results: After 48 h of CSA incubation, global FAO, RC‐complexes 1 + 3; 4 and 5 as well as CS were compromised while energy charges were not reduced. Lactate/pyruvate‐ratios increased; cellular lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)‐, hexokinase‐ and phosphofructokinase‐activities were not impaired by CSA. Moderate cellular toxicity, assessed by LDH leakage, appeared only at the highest CSA concentration.

Conclusion: Part of CSA toxicity may arise from alterations in mitochondrial function as judged by impaired FAO and respiratory chain enzymes. To some extent, energy balance seems to be maintained by cytosolic energy production. Although only demonstrated for endothelial cells, it is conceivable that such effects will alter energy metabolism of different organs with high oxidative energy demands.
Sensitization patterns to food and inhalant allergens in childhood: A comparison of non‐sensitized, monosensitized, and polysensitized children
Authors: Baatenburg de Jong Adriana , Dikkeschei Lambert D. , Brand Paul L. P.
Published: July 2010

To cite this article: Baatenburg de Jong A, Dikkeschei LD, Brand PLP. Sensitization patterns to food and inhalant allergens in childhood: A comparison of non‐sensitized, monosensitized, and polysensitized children. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 166–171.

The clinical interpretation of children sensitized to numerous allergens is challenging. We examined differences between children sensitized to zero, one, or more allergens. This was a retrospective analysis of all specific IgE tests in children 0–18 yrs of age sent to our laboratory by general practitioners and hospital‐based specialists for allergy testing between 1990 and 2003. Of all 9044 children tested, 5439 (60.1%) were not sensitized to any of the aeroallergens or food allergens tested. Three thousand six hundred and five children (39.9%) had one or more positive specific IgE tests, 1120 of which (31.1%) were monosensitized (73% to aeroallergens and 27% to food allergens), 1709 (47.4%) were sensitized to two to four allergens, and 776 (21.5%) to five or more allergens (polysensitization). Polysensitization was more common in children 4–11 yrs of age (24.8%) than in younger (18.7%) or older children (18.3%, p < 0.001), and more common in boys (9.8%) than in girls (7.3%, p < 0.001). Median total IgE values increased with increasing number of positive specific IgE tests (p < 0.001). House dust mite more commonly showed monosensitization (22.2%) than other aeroallergens (grass pollen 10.5%, tree pollen 3.6%, cat 2.9%, and dog 1.5%); cow’s milk (27.6%) more commonly than other food allergens (hen’s egg 9.7%, peanut 4.6%, wheat 0.8%, soy 0.7%). Between 55.7% (cow’s milk) and 87.9% (soy) of children sensitized to food were cosensitized to aeroallergens, while only 25.4% (house dust mite) to 39.5% (dog) of children sensitized to aeroallergens were cosensitized to food. Polysensitization is common in children, in particular in boys. It is most common in school‐aged children. The strong association with total serum IgE values and the striking cosensitization between biologically unrelated allergens suggest that polysensitization is the expression of a distinct clinical, more severe, atopic phenotype, and not of biologic cross‐reactivity to similar allergens.
Altered oxidative state in schoolchildren with asthma and allergic rhinitis
Authors: Bakkeheim Egil , Mowinckel Petter , Carlsen Kai Håkon , Burney Peter , Lødrup Carlsen Karin C.
Published: July 2010

To cite this article: Bakkeheim E, Mowinckel P, Carlsen KH, Burney P, Lødrup Carlsen KC. Altered oxidative state in schoolchildren with asthma and allergic rhinitis. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 178–185.

Oxidative stress may be defined as a disruption of the balance between the level of oxidants and reductants (antioxidants), and oxidative state in children may influence the risk of asthma and allergic disease. We investigated serum antioxidant levels: selenium, vitamin E, bilirubin, albumin, uric acid and transferrin as well as the oxidant ferritin and their association with asthma and allergic rhinitis. Children of 7–12 yr with asthma (n = 50) and no asthma (controls) (n = 52) underwent skin prick test, lung function, fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO) measurements and blood sampling. Allergic rhinitis was found in 23 children, 19 with asthma and four controls. Healthy children were controls without rhinitis. Asthma was associated with reduced albumin (g/l), adjusted odds ratio (aOR) (95% CI) 0.81 (0.66, 0.99) (p = 0.048) compared with healthy children in a regression analysis adjusted for age and gender. Asthma with high FeNO ≥20 ppb was associated with reduced albumin, aOR 0.60 (0.40, 0.89) (p = 0.012) compared to controls with FeNO <20. Asthma with allergic rhinitis had reduced albumin, aOR = 0.70 (0.50, 0.99) (p = 0.04), and higher ferritin levels (mg/l) [aOR = 1.04 (1.00, 1.09) p = 0.03] compared to healthy children. Poorly controlled asthma was associated with lower vitamin E levels, aOR 0.79 (0.65, 0.95) (p = 0.02), lower transferrin levels, aOR 0.72 (0.57, 0.92) (p < 0.01), and higher albumin levels, aOR 1.53 (1.03, 2.28) (p = 0.04), compared to well controlled asthma. In conclusion, schoolchildren with asthma and rhinitis had reduced levels of the major serum antioxidant albumin, and poorly controlled asthma was associated with decreased vitamin E and transferrin levels. Reduced albumin was associated with increased FeNO, a marker of allergic inflammation in asthma, although the discriminatory value of this finding should be further assessed in population studies.
Decreased levels of serum brain‐derived neurotrophic factor in both depressed and euthymic patients with unipolar depression and in euthymic patients with bipolar I and II disorders
Authors: Monteleone P , Serritella C , Martiadis V , Maj M
Published: July 2010

Objectives: Brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) has been proposed as a candidate molecule in the pathophysiology of major depressive disorder (MDD) and bipolar disorders (BD). Reduced levels of peripheral BDNF have been found in drug‐free MDD patients, in drug‐treated depressed or manic patients with BD type I (BD‐I), but not in drug‐treated euthymic BD‐I individuals. No study has been done in patients with BD type II (BD‐II). Moreover, the influence of Axis I psychiatric comorbidity on circulating BDNF in affective patients has never been evaluated. Therefore, in the present study, we aimed: (i) to confirm previous findings on peripheral BDNF in MDD and BD‐I patients; (ii) to assess whether changes in circulating BDNF occur also in patients with BD‐II; and (iii) to exclude the possibility that comorbid psychiatric disorders exerted an effect on BDNF levels in affective patients.

Methods: We measured serum BDNF concentrations by an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay method in 85 subjects, including 24 euthymic patients with unipolar depression (UD), 17 euthymic patients with BD‐I, 11 euthymic patients with BD‐II, 11 UD patients with a current major depressive episode and 22 drug‐free healthy controls. At the time of the study, 15 patients were drug‐treated; the remaining ones were drug‐free for at least four weeks.

Results: Compared to healthy controls, serum BDNF concentrations were significantly reduced in all the patient groups (F4,80 = 3.840, p = 0.006) with no significant difference among them. Drug treatments and comorbid psychiatric disorders had no effect on lowered circulating BDNF levels in affective patients.

Conclusions: Present results confirm previous independent findings of reduced circulating BDNF in patients with MDD and report, for the first time, decreased serum BDNF levels in euthymic patients with UD, BD‐I and BD‐II, independently from drug treatment status and concomitant Axis I psychiatric disorders.