bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Skin injuries caused by medical adhesive tape in older people and associated factors
Authors: Konya Chizuko , Sanada Hiromi , Sugama Junko , Okuwa Mayumi , Kamatani Yuki , Nakagami Gojiro , Sakaki Kozue
Published: March 2010

Aim and objectives.  This study was designed to investigate the status of skin injuries in older individuals caused by adhesive tape and the associated factors for skin injury.

Background.  Older individuals are susceptible to skin injuries caused by medical adhesive tape. However, the current status of such skin injuries and the associated factors involved has not been clearly elucidated.

Design.  Prospective cohort design, using comparative and descriptive statistical tests.

Methods.  The subjects were 155 patients aged 65 or older who were admitted to a long‐term care facility and required the use of medical adhesive tape. Patients who showed no skin injuries were selected and the incidence rate and status of skin injuries that occurred during the eight‐week study period were investigated. The skin injuries observed were classified by a dermatologist. The associated factors were examined statistically. Informed consent was obtained from all patients.

Results.  Skin injuries developed at 34 sites in 24 subjects. The cumulative incidence rate was 15·5%, and the incidence density was 38·0/1000 person‐days. Many of the skin injuries occurred around pressure ulcers and intravenous hyperalimentation sites. Other prevalent areas included the buttocks and back, where tape is commonly used. The skin injuries were classified as contact dermatitis (70·6%), trauma (20·6%) and infection (8·8%). The ratio of skin contamination and skin mobility in patients with contact dermatitis was significantly higher than in patients without skin injury.

Conclusion.  The highest incidence rate was observed in the buttock area of patients with pressure ulcers. The incidence rate of contact dermatitis was the highest.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Skin care to minimise contamination and more effective ways of applying medical adhesive tape may be needed to prevent contact dermatitis.
Influence of acorn woodpecker social behaviour on transport of coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) acorns in a southern California oak savanna
Authors: Scofield Douglas G. , Sork Victoria L. , Smouse Peter E.
Published: March 2010

1.Many plant species depend upon animals for seed dispersal, yet animals disperse seeds in pursuit of their own social and behavioural agendas. Animal social behaviour affects where and how they forage, so it must also shape patterns of seed dispersal.

2.At Sedgwick Reserve, California, USA, we established a study population ofQuercus agrifoliato determine patterns of acorn foraging by the acorn woodpecker (Melanerpes formicivorous). This cooperative breeder lives in social groups that defend territories surrounding arboreal seed caches (granaries), foraging communally within these territories.

3.We genotyped pericarp tissue of 568 acorns, as well as 285 adultQ. agrifoliatrees, including all adults within 150 m of 16 focal granaries. After quantifying genotyping error, we identified a genetically reliable subset of 524 acorns. We assigned a source tree to each acorn and estimated the number of seed sources per granary and seed source sharing among granaries.

4.We found one to eight distinct seed‐source genotypes per granary, and an effective source diversity ranging from 1.0 to 6.6 seed sources. Of all transport events, 96.5% involve source trees within 150 m of the granaries. For one granary, all sampled acorns were transported from five trees located more than 1.3 km away, with all source trees within 90 m of each other. No measure of seed‐source diversity was associated with density of potential seed sources, and the pattern of acorn movement fits three traditional dispersal curves poorly.

5.Woodpecker groups rarely collected acorns from overlapping sets of maternal sources. Some pairs of neighbouring granaries shared maternal sources, and we identify those that were probably maintained by the same woodpecker group.

6.Synthesis. Territoriality of woodpecker groups restricts both the spatial area of foraging and the sharing of seed sources. This foraging behaviour limits distances and directions of acorn transport from oaks located within woodpecker territories. Dispersal agents with this type of social structure will create a high degree of local genetic structure. Extreme behavioural variations may result in anomalous long‐distance dispersal events that increase genetic connectivity, but are likely to do so in an episodic and erratic fashion.
The environmental endocrine disruptor, bisphenol A, affects germination, elicits stress response and alters steroid hormone production in kiwifruit pollen
Authors: Speranza A. , Crosti P. , Malerba M. , Stocchi O. , Scoccianti V.
Published: March 2010

In vitro toxicity of the endocrine disruptor bisphenol A (BPA) to pollen, the male haploid generation of higher plants, was studied. BPA caused significant inhibition of both tube emergence and elongation of kiwifruit pollen in a dose‐dependent manner, beginning at 10 mg·l−1; morphological changes to tubes were also detected. Despite strong inhibition of pollen tube production and growth, a large percentage of treated cells remained viable. Immunoblotting experiments indicated that levels of BiP and 14‐3‐3, which are proteins involved in stress response, substantially increased in BPA‐treated pollen compared to controls. The increases were dose‐dependent in the range 10–50 mg·l−1 BPA, i.e. even when germination ability was completely blocked. Steroid hormones (17 β‐estradiol, progesterone and testosterone) were detected in kiwifruit pollen, and their levels increased during germination in basal medium. In a BPA treatment of 30 mg·l−1, larger increases in both estrogen and testosterone concentrations were detected, in particular, a six‐fold increase of 17 β‐estradiol over control concentration (30 min). The increased hormone levels were maintained for at least the 90 min incubation. Increasing concentrations of exogenous testosterone and 17 β‐estradiol increasingly inhibited pollen tube emergence and elongation. Current data for BPA‐exposed kiwifruit pollen suggest a toxicity mechanism that is at least in part based on a dramatic imbalance of steroid hormone production during tube organisation, emergence and elongation. It may be concluded that BPA, a widespread environmental contaminant, can cause serious adverse effects to essential pollen functions. On a broader scale, this chemical poses a potential risk to the reproductive success of higher plants.
Comparative analysis of abscisic acid‐regulated transcriptomes in Arabidopsis
Authors: Choudhury A. , Lahiri A.
Published: March 2010

Transcription regulation by the phytohormone abscisic acid (ABA) plays a key role in responses to various stresses and has been extensively studied in Arabidopsis thaliana using different expression analysis techniques. Previous studies on comparative analysis of expression regulation by ABA and ABA‐related stresses demonstrated marked differences in the targets of ABA. However, as few expression experiments were available during these studies, they encompass only a subset of ABA‐regulated genes. The aim of the present work was to compare gene expression regulated by ABA administration in a wider range of expression experiments. Despite diversity in the actual set of genes regulated by ABA, all ABA‐regulated transcriptomes shared some basic features, such as a common induced gene set, common functional targets and involvement of common regulatory mechanisms. Moreover, the cis‐regulatory architecture of genes belonging to this set is expected to be of interest because of their sensitivity to ABA and apparent independence from other experimental variables. Comparative analysis of cis‐regulatory element (CRE) enrichment also identified a novel CRE that is strongly associated with ABA signalling‐mediated transcription repression.
Morphology of the Lingual Dorsal Surface and Oral Taste Buds in Italian Lizard (Podarcis sicula)
Authors: Abbate F. , Guerrera M. C. , Montalbano G. , Zichichi R. , Germanà A. , Ciriaco E.
Published: March 2010

With 4 figures

The Italian lizard (Podarcis sicula) is the most diffused reptile in Italy, but it is also present in other European countries. This lizard belongs to the Lacertidae family, lives near walls, slants and along the borders of the paths; its diet includes bugs and aracnids. No data are so far available in literature about the three‐dimensional morphology of the tongue of Podarcis sicula, therefore the aim of the present paper was to study by scanning electron and light microscopy the three‐dimensional characteristics of the dorsal lingual surface and moreover the presence of chemosensory receptors like the taste buds in the oral cavity. Our results demonstrate that the Podarcis sicula tongue is a triangular muscular membranous organ, dorsoventrally flattened and that three different areas can be observed: a bifid apex, a body and a root. No papillae were observed in the apex, characterized by a flattened mucosa and by two deep median pouches. In the body cylindrical papillae with a flat surface are present, aborally gradually substituted by imbricated papillae. Foliate‐like papillae were observed in the lateral parts of the tongue body. No sensory structures were showed on the lingual dorsal surface, while they were numerous in the oral cavity, particularly on the gingival epithelium. The light microscopy shows, on the dorsal surface, a stratified pavimentous not keratinized epithelium, conversely keratinized along the ventral surface. Many caliciform cells on the lateral parts of the papillae, deputed to the secretion of mucus, were also observed. Therefore, the results obtained in this paper could give a contribution to the knowledge of the tongue anatomy in a species widely diffused in different European countries and could be of help for clinical purposes in reptiles.
Flight Distance and Eye Size in Birds
Authors: Møller Anders P. , Erritzøe Johannes
Published: March 2010

Larger eyes capture more information from the environment than small eyes, but also require more brain space for information processing. Therefore, individuals have to optimize the size of their eyes, leading to the prediction that larger eyes should have evolved in species with greater benefits from large eyes, such as species subject to intense predation risk. In a comparative analysis of 97 bird species, we found that species that fled at longer distances from an approaching potential predator indeed had relatively large eyes for their body size. In contrast, there was no indication that large eyes had evolved in species living in secluded habitats, or in species eating mobile prey. These findings are consistent with the assumption that eye size is labile and can evolve in response to changing predator environments. They also suggest that eye size may act as a constraint on optimal anti‐predator behavior, if the predator community changes as a consequence of introductions or invasions.
What Makes Vocalisation Frequency an Unreliable Signal of Body Size in Birds? A Study on Black Swans
Authors: Patel Rakhee , Mulder Raoul A. , Cardoso Gonçalo C.
Published: March 2010

In many animal species, the frequency (pitch) of vocalisations correlates negatively with body size and may thus signal competitive ability. However, this relationship is absent in other species. Understanding why this difference exists across species may help to explain some of the diversity of vocal communication systems. We assessed whether vocalisation frequency signals body size in black swans (Cygnus atratus), and how this is affected by (i) variation in frequency within individuals and (ii) size variation across individuals. Frequency was correlated with body size and mass, with slopes close to the allometry expected if the birds were maximising sound radiation, but the explained variation in frequency was low. Within‐individual variation in vocalisation frequency was greater in male than female swans, and the reliability of frequency as a signal of size in males was correspondingly lower. A review of the literature on the relationship between the frequency of avian vocalisations and body size also showed smaller effect sizes for more variable vocalisations (birdsongs), than for simpler vocalisations. Vocalisation frequency was more reliably correlated with body size when the sexes were pooled (creating a larger range of variation in size) than when the relationship was examined for either sex separately, although male and female data followed the same allometric line. These results show that variation in frequency within individuals and low variation in size across individuals reduce the reliability of vocalisation frequency as a signal of body size, which helps to understand differences among species in the signal value of vocalisation frequency.
Behavioural Syndromes in Urban and Rural Populations of Song Sparrows
Authors: Evans Jackson , Boudreau Kyle , Hyman Jeremy
Published: March 2010

Animals in urban habitats are often noticeably bold in the presence of humans. Such boldness may arise due to habituation, as urban animals learn, through repeated exposure, that passing humans do not represent a threat. However, there is growing research suggesting that: (1) inherent traits, as opposed to learned behaviour, influence which species invade urban habitats, and (2) individuals exhibit individual personality traits that limit behavioural flexibility, with the possible result that not all individuals would be able to demonstrate an appropriate level of boldness in urban environments. As a result, perhaps only birds with inherently bold personalities could successfully settle in an area of high human disturbance, and further, we might also expect to see the existence of behavioural syndromes, where boldness is correlated with variation in other behavioural traits such as aggression. In this study, we examined boldness and territorial aggression in urban and rural populations of song sparrows. We found that urban birds were bolder towards humans and that urban birds also showed higher levels of territorial aggression. We also found an overall correlation between boldness and territorial aggression, suggesting that urban boldness may be part of a behavioural syndrome. However, we see no correlation between boldness and aggression in the urban population, and thus, more work is needed to determine the mechanisms accounting for high levels of boldness and aggression urban song sparrows.
Deregulation of miR‐92a expression is implicated in hepatocellular carcinoma development
Authors: Shigoka Masatoshi , Tsuchida Akihiko , Matsudo Takaaki , Nagakawa Yuichi , Saito Hitoshi , Suzuki Yoshiaki , Aoki Tatsuya , Murakami Yoshiki , Toyoda Hidenori , Kumada Takashi , Bartenschlager Ralf , Kato Nobuyuki , Ikeda Masanori , Takashina Tomoki , Tanaka Masami , Suzuki Rieko , Oikawa Kosuke , Takanashi Masakatsu , Kuroda Masahiko
Published: March 2010

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) belong to a class of the endogenously expressed non‐coding small RNAs which primarily function as gene regulators. Growing evidence suggests that miRNAs have a significant role in tumor development and may constitute robust biomarkers for cancer diagnosis and prognosis. The miR‐17‐92 cluster especially is markedly overexpressed in several cancers, and is associated with the cancer development and progression. In this study, we have demonstrated that miR‐92a is highly expressed in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). In addition, the proliferation of HCC‐derived cell lines was enhanced by miR‐92a and inhibited by the anti‐miR‐92a antagomir. On the other hand, we have found that the relative amount of miR‐92a in the plasmas from HCC patients is decreased compared with that from the healthy donors. Interestingly, the amount of miR‐92a was elevated after surgical treatment. Thus, although the physiological significance of the decrease of miR‐92a in plasma is still unknown, deregulation of miR‐92 expression in cells and plasma should be implicated in the development of HCC.
Speciation via species interactions: the divergence of mating traits within species
Authors: Hoskin Conrad J. , Higgie Megan
Published: March 2010

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 409–420

A species may overlap with a mosaic of species across its geographic range. Many types of species interaction cause selection on mating traits, but their role in generating within‐species divergence has been neglected. The pattern of reproductive character displacement (RCD) has been classically attributed to reinforcement, a process driven by selection against hybridisation. Recent reinforcement research shows that sexual isolation can result between displaced and non‐displaced populations. We argue that RCD (and hence potentially speciation) among populations can be generated by a variety of fundamental species interactions beyond reinforcement. We unify these interactions under one process of mating trait divergence and speciation (‘RCD speciation’). This process can occur in many geographic settings. Because selection is acting directly on mating traits, rapid speciation can result involving little differentiation in other traits. This pattern of diversification is seen in many groups and regions, and has previously been attributed to sexual selection alone.
Effect of tyrosine kinase inhibitor treatment of renal cell carcinoma on the accumulation of carbonic anhydrase IX‐specific chimeric monoclonal antibody cG250
Authors: Oosterwijk‐Wakka Jeannette C. , Kats‐Ugurlu Gürsah , Leenders William P.J. , Kiemeney Lambertus A.L.M. , Old Lloyd J. , Mulders Peter F.A. , Oosterwijk Egbert
Published: March 2010

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

TKI combined with chemotherapy has shown significant synergistic activity in glioma, colon‐, and breast carcinoma, possibly through improved delivery of therapeutic molecules through vascular normalization and reduced tumour interstitial fluid pressure. Whether this can be achieved with larger molecules such as antibodies is unclear. Possibly, a narrow time window exists in which lowered interstitial fluid pressures precedes tumour vasculature destruction during which enhanced antibody uptake and synergy might be achieved. Here we show that careful timing will be necessary because the TKI‐induced tumour‐vessel destruction is swift and prevents adequate antibody accumulation.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effect of three different tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs) on the biodistribution of chimeric monoclonal antibody (mAb) cG250, which identifies carbonic anhydrase IX (CAIX), in nude mice bearing human renal cell carcinoma (RCC) xenografts. TKIs represent the best, but still suboptimal treatment for metastatic RCC (mRCC) and combined therapy or sequential therapy might be beneficial. CAIX is abundantly over expressed in RCC and clinical trials have shown abundant and specific tumour accumulation of cG250. Combining a TKI with mAb cG250, involved in a different effector mechanism, might lead to improved tumour responses and survival in patients with mRCC.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Nude mice bearing human RCC xenografts were treated orally with 0.75 mg/day sunitinib, 1 mg/day vandetanib, 1 mg/day sorafenib or vehicle control for 7 or 14 days. At 7 days, mice were injected i.v. with 185 kBq/5 µg 125I‐cG250. Mice were killed at predetermined days and cG250 biodistribution was determined. Tumours were analysed by immunohistochemistry for the presence of endothelial cells, laminin, smooth muscle actin, CAIX expression and uptake of mAb cG250.

RESULTS

While on TKI treatment, tumour uptake of cG250 decreased dramatically, tumour growth was slightly inhibited and vascular density decreased considerably as judged by various markers. When treatment was stopped at 7 days, there was robust neovascularization, mainly at the tumour periphery. Consequently, cG250 uptake also recovered, albeit cG250 uptake appeared to be restricted to the tumour periphery where vigorous neovascularization was visible.

CONCLUSIONS

Simultaneous administration of a TKI and mAb cG250 severely compromised mAb accumulation. However, shortly after discontinuation of TKI treatment mAb accumulation was restored. Combined treatment strategies with TKI and mAb should be carefully designed.
Who is My Partner and How Do We Dance? Technological Collaboration and Patenting Speed in US Biotechnology
Authors: Al‐Laham Andreas , Amburgey Terry L. , Baden‐Fuller Charles
Published: March 2010

In settings where patents and intellectual property provide a strong regime of appropriability, the race to be the first firm to patent a product or a process is a central feature of competition. In this context, we hypothesize that cooperative arrangements that only gain access to external knowledge contribute less to heterogeneity between firms and have a much weaker influence on patenting than alliances that transfer highly firm‐specific knowledge, residing in individual and social relationships. We also hypothesize that cooperations between private firms and public organizations accelerate the rate of patenting to a higher degree than cooperations among private firms. We develop and test these ideas on the population of 839 US biotechnology firms between 1973 and 2003. We discuss the importance of our findings on the debate about the value of knowledge access versus knowledge transfer in strategic alliances.
Serum lipid profile in highly active antiretroviral therapy‐naïve HIV‐infected patients in Cameroon: a case–control study
Authors: Nguemaïm Nf , Mbuagbaw J , Nkoa T , Alemnji G , Této G , Fanhi Tc , Asonganyi T , Samé‐Ekobo A
Published: March 2010

Background

HIV status has commonly been found to affect the serum lipid profile.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of HIV infection on lipid metabolism; such information may be used to improve the management of HIV‐infected patients.

Methods

Samples were collected from December 2005 to May 2006 at Yaounde University Teaching Hospital, Yaounde, Cameroon. Lipid parameters were obtained using colorimetric enzyme assays, while low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDLC) values were calculated using the formula of Friedewald et al. (1972) and atherogenicity index by total cholesterol (TC)/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDLC) and LDLC/HDLC ratios.

Results

HIV infection was most prevalent in subjects aged 31 to 49 years. Most of the HIV‐positive patients belonged to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention categories B (43.0%) and C (30.23%). Compared with control subjects, patients with CD4 counts<50 cells/μL had significantly lower TC (P<0.0001) and LDLC (P<0.0001) but significantly higher triglyceride (TG) values (P<0.001) and a higher atherogenicity index for TC/HDLC (P<0.01) and HDLC/LDLC (P=0.02); patients with CD4 counts of 50–199 cells/μL had significantly lower TC (P<0.001) and significantly higher TG values (P<0.001); patients with CD4 counts of 200–350 cells/μL had significantly higher TG (P=0.003) and a higher atherogenicity index for TC/HDLC (P<0.0002) and HDLC/LDLC (P=0.04); and those with CD4 counts >350 cells/μL had a higher atherogenicity index for TC/HDLC (P<0.0001) and HDLC/LDLC (P<0.001). HDLC was significantly lower in HIV‐positive patients irrespective of the CD4 cell count. Lipid parameters were also influenced by the presence of opportunistic infections (OIs).

Conclusion

HIV infection is associated with dyslipidaemia, and becomes increasingly debilitating as immunodeficiency progresses. HDLC was found to be lower than in controls in the early stages of HIV infection, while TG and the atherogenicity index increased and TC and LDLC decreased in the advanced stages of immunodeficiency.
Instant infusion pasteurisation of bovine milk. II. Effects on indigenous milk enzymes activity and whey protein denaturation
Authors: HAMMERSHØJ MARIANNE , HOUGAARD ANNI B , VESTERGAARD JANNIE S , POULSEN OLE , IPSEN RICHARD H
Published: March 2010

Direct heat treatment of two milk types, skimmed and nonstandardised full‐fat, was performed by instant steam infusion and compared with indirect heating. Infusion conditions were temperatures of 72–120°C combined with holding times of 100–700 ms, and indirect heat conditions were 72°C/15 s and 85°C/30 s. The activity of indigenous enzymes such as alkaline phosphatase, lactoperoxidase, xanthine oxidase and γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase was evaluated. Infusion temperature was the main determinant of inactivation. Whey protein denaturation represented by β‐lactoglobulin increased significantly with infusion temperature. The nonstandardised milk had a higher denaturation rate than skimmed milk. The effect of instant infusion on pH and milk fat globule size in relation to whey protein denaturation and association is discussed.
Altered longevity‐assurance activity of p53:p44 in the mouse causes memory loss, neurodegeneration and premature death
Authors: Pehar Mariana , O’Riordan Kenneth J. , Burns‐Cusato Melissa , Andrzejewski Matthew E. , Del Alcazar Carlos Gil , Burger Corinna , Scrable Heidi , Puglielli Luigi
Published: March 2010

The longevity‐assurance activity of the tumor suppressor p53 depends on the levels of Δ40p53 (p44), a short and naturally occurring isoform of the p53 gene. As such, increased dosage of p44 in the mouse leads to accelerated aging and short lifespan. Here we show that mice homozygous for a transgene encoding p44 (p44+/+) display cognitive decline and synaptic impairment early in life. The synaptic deficits are attributed to hyperactivation of insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF‐1R) signaling and altered metabolism of the microtubule‐binding protein tau. In fact, they were rescued by either Igf1r or Mapt haploinsufficiency. When expressing a human or a ‘humanized’ form of the amyloid precursor protein (APP), p44+/+ animals developed a selective degeneration of memory‐forming and ‐retrieving areas of the brain, and died prematurely. Mechanistically, the neurodegeneration was caused by both paraptosis‐ and autophagy‐like cell deaths. These results indicate that altered longevity‐assurance activity of p53:p44 causes memory loss and neurodegeneration by affecting IGF‐1R signaling. Importantly, Igf1r haploinsufficiency was also able to correct the synaptic deficits of APP695/swe mice, a model of Alzheimer’s disease.
Assessment of Myocardial Perfusion during Adenosine Stress Using Real Time Three‐Dimensional and Two‐Dimensional Myocardial Contrast Echocardiography: Comparison with Single‐Photon Emission Computed Tomography
Authors: Abdelmoneim Sahar S. , Bernier Mathieu , Dhoble Abhijeet , Moir Stuart , Hagen Mary E. , Ness Sue Ann C. , Abdel‐Kader Samir S. , Pellikka Patricia A. , Mulvagh Sharon L.
Published: March 2010

Objectives: To evaluate diagnostic accuracy of adenosine two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional myocardial contrast echocardiography (2D‐ and 3D‐MCE) compared with single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for assessing myocardial perfusion. Methods: From January through August 2007, patients with known or suspected CAD who were referred for SPECT underwent simultaneous adenosine 2D‐MCE and 3D‐MCE (live and full volume [FV]). Perfusion and wall motion in 17 segments in the left anterior descending, left circumflex, and right coronary artery territories were analyzed. Results: We studied 30 patients: mean (SD) age, 72.6 (8.2) years; 19 (63%) men. Perfusion by SPECT was abnormal in 13 patients (43%). When comparing MCE with SPECT, sensitivity was comparable for 2D‐MCE, 92%; live 3D‐MCE, 91%; and FV 3D‐MCE, 90%. Specificity was comparable for 2D‐MCE, 75%; live 3D‐MCE, 69%; and FV 3D‐MCE, 79%. Agreement between live 3D‐MCE and 2D‐MCE was 92% (κ[SE], 0.83 [0.17]) and between FV 3D‐MCE and 2D‐MCE, 88% (κ[SE], 0.76 [0.13]). For eight patients in whom SPECT showed reversible defects, live 3D‐MCE correctly identified defects in seven (88%), whereas FV 3D‐MCE correctly identified them in five (63%) (P = 0.57). Conclusion: Myocardial perfusion assessment is feasible by 3D‐MCE with the advantage of rapid, facile acquisition and offline image manipulation. (Echocardiography 2010;27:421‐429)
Right Atrial Appendage Function in Different Etiologies of Permanent Atrial Fibrillation: A Transesophageal Echocardiography and Tissue Doppler Imaging Study
Authors: Sahin Tayfun , Ural Dilek , Kilic Teoman , Bildirici Ulas , Kozdag Guliz , Agacdiken Aysen , Ural Ertan
Published: March 2010

Objectives: Several studies exist on the left atrial appendage function (LAA) in permanent atrial fibrillation (AF). However, knowledge about the right atrial appendage (RAA) function is limited. We investigated RAA function with TEE and tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) in permanent AF patients with different etiologies and evaluated predictive parameters of right atrial spontaneous echo contrast (SEC) and thrombi. Methods: Patients with permanent AF developed due to three different etiologies (20 mitral stenosis, 44 hypertension, 20 hyperthyroidism) and 23 subjects with sinus rhythm were included into the study. RAA was examined with TEE and pulsed‐wave and TDI velocities of RAA were measured. Results: Both PW‐Doppler and TDI velocities were significantly impaired in all AF groups compared to controls. The lowest velocities were recorded in mitral stenosis patients. Right atrial moderate–severe SEC was observed in 75% of the mitral stenosis patients, in 25% of hypertensive patients, and in 30% of hyperthyroidism patients. Right atrial thrombus was observed in 25% of mitral stenosis, 4.5% of hypertension, and in none of the hyperthyroidism patients. In the multivariate analysis, the most important parameter associated with the severity of RAA SEC was the percent change in RAA area (B =−0.034, P = 0.03). Conclusion: In patients with permanent AF, impairment of RAA function and development of right atrial SEC‐thrombus are closely related to the underlying etiology. These results suggested that evaluation of RAA functions may have an incremental value over the assessment of the LAA for determining thromboembolic risk. (Echocardiography 2010;27:384‐393)
Echocardiographic Parameters and Brain Natriuretic Peptide in Patients after Surgical Repair of Tetralogy of Fallot
Authors: Tatani Solange B. , Carvalho Antonio Carlos C. , Andriolo Adagmar , Rabelo Rogério , Campos Orlando , Moises Valdir A.
Published: March 2010

Background: Although the residual lesions after surgical correction of tetralogy of Fallot (TOF) can be evaluated by Doppler echocardiography (DE), the relation of DE parameters with the proBNP level, a potential biomarker of right ventricle overload, is not well known. The objective of this study was to evaluate the DE parameters and their relation to proBNP levels. Methods: proBNP plasma level and Doppler echocardiography parameters were obtained on the same day in 49 patients later after repair of TOF (mean age of 14.7 years, 51% female, mean PO time of 9.5 years). The DE parameters studied were the dimensions of the right atrium (RA) and ventricle (RV), RV diastolic and systolic function, and residual pulmonary lesions. The relation between them and proBNP levels were analyzed and the cutoff values of DE parameters for elevated proBNP determined. Results: proBNP was elevated in 53% and correlated with RV diastolic diameter (r = 0.41; P = 0.003), RA longitudinal (r = 0.52; P = 0.0001) and transversal (r = 0.47; P = 0.001) diameters, pressure half time of pulmonary regurgitation (PR) velocity (PHT) (r =−0.42; P = 0.005), and the PR index (r =−0.60; P < 0.001). By multivariate analysis, the PR index (r =−597; P = 0,001; CI: −913.2 to −280.8) and RA longitudinal (r = 7.74; P < 0,001; CI 4.18 to 11.31) were independent predictors of elevated proBNP. PHT lower than 64 msec (0.76) and PRi lower than 0.65 (0.81) had the best accuracy for elevated proBNP. Conclusion: proBNP may be increased in patients after surgical repair of TOF, correlated with the size of right cardiac chambers and the severity of PR. (Echocardiography 2010;27:442‐447)
The “Childhood Obesity Epidemic”:
Authors: Moffat Tina
Published: March 2010

There has been a meteoric rise over the past two decades in the medical research and media coverage of the so‐called global childhood obesity epidemic. Recently, in response to this phenomenon, there has been a spate of books and articles in the fields of critical sociology and cultural studies that have argued that this “epidemic” is socially constructed, what Natalie Boero (2007) dubs a “postmodern epidemic.” As an anthropologist who has studied child nutrition and obesity in relation to poverty and the school environment, I am concerned about both the lack of reflexivity among medical researchers as well as critical scholars’ treatment of the problem as entirely socially constructed. In this article I present both sides of this debate and then discuss how we can attempt to navigate a middle course that recognizes this health issue but also offers alternative approaches to those set by the biomedical agenda.
A Care‐Full Diagnosis:
Authors: Killingsworth Ben , Kokanovic Renata , Tran Huong , Dowrick Chris
Published: March 2010

It is often argued that Western medical responses to illness take illness out of the intimate social contexts within which illness becomes meaningful for people and that, as a result, Western medicine can often constitute an ineffective or, at worst, a disempowering response to illness. While not wishing to challenge such arguments, we seek in this article to present material that might serve as a useful caveat to them. Drawn from interviews conducted as part of an Australian study exploring cross‐cultural understandings and experiences of mental illness, we present the accounts of three Vietnamese Australian women. In these accounts, the diagnoses of mental illness that these women had received from their Australian doctors were not presented as being meaningless or disempowering. Rather, as the women presented it, being seen and treated as mentally ill had precipitated and continued to precipitate a sense of belonging and self‐worth.
Combustion Synthesis of Ti3SiC2/TiC Composites from Elemental Powders under High‐Gravity Conditions
Authors: Yin Xi , Chen Kexin , Zhou Heping , Ning Xiaoshan
Published: March 2010

Combustion synthesis of Ti3SiC2/TiC composites from 3Ti/xSi/2C (x=1, 1.1, 1.2) powders was conducted under high‐gravity conditions with gravity up to 895 G. The results showed that the phase composition of the products strongly depended on the gravity level. We find that high‐gravity synthesis favors the growth of TiC phase over Ti3SiC2 phase, as a consequence of the reduced existence time of the Ti–Si liquid phase. This discovery suggests that gravity provides a new leverage for controlling product phase composition in combustion synthesis. It was also found that the densification process during combustion synthesis could be enhanced under a high‐gravity condition.
Metacognition as a mediator of the effects of impairments in neurocognition on social function in schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: Lysaker P. H. , Shea A. M. , Buck K. D. , Dimaggio G. , Nicolò G. , Procacci M. , Salvatore G. , Rand K. L.
Published: March 2010

Lysaker PH, Shea AM, Buck KD, Dimaggio G, Nicolò G, Procacci M, Salvatore G, Rand KL. Metacognition as a mediator of the effects of impairments in neurocognition on social function in schizophrenia spectrum disorders.

Objective:  This study explored whether Mastery, a domain of metacognition that reflects the ability to use knowledge about mental states to respond to psychological challenges, mediated the effects of neurocognition on the frequency of social contact and persons’ capacity for social relatedness.

Method:  Participants were 102 adults with schizophrenia or schizoaffective disorder. Neurocognition was represented by a single factor score produced by a principal components analysis of a neurocognitive test battery. Mastery was assessed using the metacognitive assessment scale and social functioning by the quality of life scale.

Results:  Using structural equation modeling, specifically measured‐variable path analysis, a mediational model consisting of neurocognitive capacity linked to mastery and capacity for social relationships and mastery linked with frequency of social contact and capacity for social relatedness showed acceptable fit to the observed data. This persisted after controlling for negative and cognitive symptoms.

Conclusion:  Results suggest that certain forms of metacognition mediate the influence of neurocognition upon function in schizophrenia.
The perceived and predicted implications of psychiatric genetic knowledge among persons with multiple cases of depression in the family
Authors: Laegsgaard M. M. , Stamp A. S. , Hall E. O. C. , Mors O.
Published: March 2010

Laegsgaard MM, Stamp AS, Hall EOC, Mors O. The perceived and predicted implications of psychiatric genetic knowledge among persons with multiple cases of depression in the family.

Objective:  Psychiatric genetic research raises hope regarding better treatment and prevention, but also regarding a possible de‐stigmatizing effect of attributing mental illness to genetics. This study explores i) the impact on family relations of participating in a genetic study; ii) the impact of biogenetic attributions on perceptions of depression and stigma and iii) the perceived benefits and concerns regarding psychiatric genetic testing.

Method:  Focus groups were conducted with 17 participants suffering from depression, with multiple cases of depression in the family, and previously participating in a genetic study.

Results:  Participating in a genetic study caused more openness about depression in most families. A biogenetic explanation of depression was perceived as having the potential of diminishing self stigma. Testing of self and children was widely accepted, whereas prenatal testing raised concern.

Conclusion:  Persons suffering from depression may benefit from endorsing a biogenetic explanation, especially in relation to self‐understanding and self‐stigma.
Osteoprotegerin induces cytoskeletal reorganization and activates FAK, Src, and ERK signaling in endothelial cells
Authors: Kobayashi‐Sakamoto Michiyo , Isogai Emiko , Holen Ingunn
Published: March 2010

Osteoprotegerin (OPG) is a soluble tumor necrosis factor receptor family member that is expressed by a range of cell types in bone as well as in the vasculature. However, the specific role of OPG in the vascular system is unclear. We recently reported that OPG treatment protects endothelial cells from detachment and apoptotic cell death induced by cysteine proteases of Porphyromonas gingivalis, an important pathogen of adult periodontitis. We also found that OPG activates the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (ERK) 1/2, which has been linked to cell survival and angiogenesis. In this study, we demonstrate that exposure to OPG induces a substantial morphological change in human dermal microvascular endothelial cells. Our results show that OPG induced a dose‐dependent increase in the length of microtubules, which coincided with the transition of the cells from a polygonal to an elongated shape. Furthermore, we demonstrated that OPG activates signaling pathways that lead to the activation of Src, focal adhesion kinase, and ERK1/2. These findings suggest that OPG regulates at least two distinct pathways: one that induces cell proliferation via ERK signaling and another that induces angiogenesis via Src signaling. The findings of this study suggest that OPG may function as a regulator of angiogenesis.
A Comparison of Chained Linear and Poststratification Linear Equating Under Different Testing Conditions
Authors: Puhan Gautam
Published: March 2010

In this study I compared results of chained linear, Tucker, and Levine‐observed score equatings under conditions where the new and old forms samples were similar in ability and also when they were different in ability. The length of the anchor test was also varied to examine its effect on the three different equating methods. The three equating methods were compared to a criterion equating to obtain estimates of random equating error, bias, and root mean squared error (RMSE). Results showed that, for most studied conditions, chained linear equating produced fairly good equating results in terms of low bias and RMSE. Levine equating also produced low bias and RMSE in some conditions. Although the Tucker method always produced the lowest random equating error, it produced a larger bias and RMSE than either of the other equating methods. As noted in the literature, these results also suggest that either chained linear or Levine equating be used when new and old form samples differ on ability and/or when the anchor‐to‐total correlation is not very high. Finally, by testing the missing data assumptions of the three equating methods, this study also shows empirically why an equating method is more or less accurate under certain conditions.
Akt2/PKBβ‐sensitive regulation of renal phosphate transport
Authors: Kempe D. S. , Ackermann T. F. , Boini K. M. , Klaus F. , Umbach A. T. , Dërmaku‐Sopjani M. , Judenhofer M. S. , Pichler B. J. , Capuano P. , Stange G. , Wagner C. A. , Birnbaum M. J. , Pearce D. , Föller M. , Lang F.
Published: March 2010

Aim: The protein kinase B (PKB)/Akt is known to stimulate the cellular uptake of glucose and amino acids. The kinase is expressed in proximal renal tubules. The present study explored the influence of Akt/PKB on renal tubular phosphate transport.

Methods: The renal phosphate transporter NaPi‐IIa was expressed inXenopusoocytes with or without PKB/Akt and Na+phosphate cotransport determined using dual electrode voltage clamp. Renal phosphate excretion was determined in Akt2/PKBβ knockout mice (akt2−/−) and corresponding wild‐type mice (akt2+/+). Transporter protein abundance was determined using Western blotting and phosphate transport by32P uptake into brush border membrane vesicles.

Results: The phosphate‐induced current in NaPi‐IIa‐expressingXenopusoocytes was significantly increased by the coexpression of Akt/PKB. Phosphate excretion [μmol per 24 h per g BW] was higher by 91% inakt2−/−than inakt2+/+mice. The phosphaturia ofakt2−/−mice occurred despite normal transport activity and expression of the renal phosphate transporters NaPi‐IIa, NaPi‐IIc and Pit2 in the brush border membrane, a significantly decreased plasma PTH concentration (by 46%) and a significantly enhanced plasma 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3concentration (by 46%). Moreover, fractional renal Ca2+excretion was significantly enhanced (by 53%) and bone density significantly reduced (by 11%) inakt2−/−mice.

Conclusions: Akt2/PKBβ plays a role in the acute regulation of renal phosphate transport and thus contributes to the maintenance of phosphate balance and adequate mineralization of bone.
Artificial sweetener as a historical window to culturally situated health
Authors: de la Peña Carolyn
Published: March 2010

This article employs the history of artificial sweetener consumption in the United States as a window onto the ways in which American women defined health as a physical and cultural construct in the mid‐20th century. It uses, as an evidentiary basis, two consumer case studies: the initial adoption of saccharin and cyclamates in the 1950s, and the defense of saccharin in the wake of pending FDA restrictions in 1977. These instances suggest that individuals have historically based their assessment of healthy food products on both their understanding of the products’ physical impact and their set of held values, attitudes, and beliefs particular to a historical moment. They also suggest that gender, class, and geographic location are formative influences on how those values, attitudes, and beliefs are constructed. The history of artificial sweetener consumption points to the importance of considering health from a physical and cultural point of view in attempts to shape nutrition practice and policy in the United States.
The future of sustainable food production
Authors: Ronald Pamela , Adamchak Raoul
Published: March 2010

By the year 2050, the number of people on Earth is expected to increase from the current 6.7 to 9.2 billion. What is the best way to produce enough food to feed all these people? If we continue with current farming practices, vast amounts of wilderness will be lost, millions of birds and billions of insects will die, farm workers will be at increased risk for disease, and the public will lose billions of dollars as a consequence of environmental degradation. Clearly, there must be a better way to resolve the need for increased food production with the desire to minimize its impact.
Dairy proteins and the response to pneumovax in senior citizens: a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled pilot study
Authors: Freeman Samara L. , Fisher Laura , German J. Bruce , Leung Patrick S. , Prince Harry , Selmi Carlo , Naguwa Stanley M. , Gershwin M. Eric
Published: March 2010

With the progressive aging of the world's population, immunosenescence is rapidly becoming a clinical concern as it accounts for a higher incidence of severe infections and poor response to vaccines. To identify nutritional approaches that may counteract immunosenescence is of obvious importance in clinical practice. Dairy products in general and whey proteins in particular share the capacity to stimulate the immune system within the digestive tract while the antibody response to Streptococcus pneumoniae vaccine is a good marker of the immune function. We performed a controlled, randomized, double‐blind pilot study to determine if an eight‐week supplementation with whey protein (or soy protein used as control) could enhance the serum response to pneumococcal vaccine in healthy senior citizens. Out of 127 volunteers, 17 subjects were eligible and completed the study receiving the vaccine after four weeks of supplementation. Antibody levels were measured at baseline and the end of the study against 14 pneumococcal types and a detailed nutritional questionnaire was administered to all subjects. Subjects receiving whey protein manifested a serum response higher compared to the control soy supplementation against 12/14 bacterial types. In particular, whey led to a higher frequency of response to all four more virulent types (4, 9, 14, and 23). Calorie and protein intake data suggest a better nutritional status in the whey group. Whey protein supplementation is a promising supplement to stimulate the immune response to vaccine in senior citizens and possibly to counteract immunosenescence while larger studies are warranted.
Microfluidics: an emerging technology for food and health science
Authors: Lin Gisela , Lee Abraham P.
Published: March 2010

Microfluidics is an emerging technology with the potential to streamline workflows and processes in the food and health sciences. Because of extreme miniaturization, less reagent consumption and more efficient sample‐to‐answer protocols are not only attainable but in many cases demonstrated. In this article, we present some key examples of relevant research at the Micro/Nano Fluidics Fundamentals Focus (MF3) Center that has direct applications in food, environmental, and physiological health monitoring.
Effect of walnut (Juglans regia) polyphenolic compounds on ovalbumin‐specific IgE induction in female BALB/c mice
Authors: Comstock Sarah S. , Gershwin Laurel J. , Teuber Suzanne S.
Published: March 2010

English walnuts are implicated in severe, IgE‐mediated food allergy in humans. We sought to determine if polyphenolic compounds extracted from the edible nut could promote IgE production to a coadministered allergen. BALB/c mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) with or without alum (AL) or polyphenolic‐enriched extract via intraperitoneal injection. Serum was analyzed for total IgE and OVA‐specific IgE, IgG1, and IgG2a/2b. Coadministration of walnut polyphenolic‐enriched extract with antigen and AL increased serum concentrations of antigen‐specific IgE and IgG1. When AL was excluded from the injections, polyphenolic extract tended to enhance OVA‐specific IgE and IgG1 over levels induced by OVA alone, but the increase did not reach significance. Serum IgG2a/2b levels were similar between mice receiving OVA/AL and OVA/AL with polyphenolics. Thus, walnut polyphenolic extract enhanced the Th2‐skewing effect of an aluminum hydroxide adjuvant. This indicates that walnut polyphenolic compounds may play a role in allergic sensitization of genetically predisposed individuals.