bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The association of metabotropic glutamate receptor type 5 with the neuronal Ca2+‐binding protein 2 modulates receptor function
Authors: Canela Laia , Fernández‐Dueñas Víctor , Albergaria Catarina , Watanabe Masahiko , Lluís Carme , Mallol Josefa , Canela Enric I. , Franco Rafael , Luján Rafael , Ciruela Francisco
Published: August 2009

Metabotropic glutamate (mGlu) receptors mediate in part the CNS effects of glutamate. These receptors interact with a large array of intracellular proteins in which the final role is to regulate receptor function. Here, using co‐immunoprecipitation and pull‐down experiments we showed a close and specific interaction between mGlu5 receptor and NECAB2 in both transfected human embryonic kidney cells and rat hippocampus. Interestingly, in pull‐down experiments increasing concentrations of calcium drastically reduced the ability of these two proteins to interact, suggesting that NECAB2 binds to mGlu5 receptor in a calcium‐regulated manner. Immunoelectron microscopy detection of NECAB2 and mGlu5 receptor in the rat hippocampal formation indicated that both proteins are codistributed in the same subcellular compartment of pyramidal cells. In addition, the NECAB2/mGlu5 receptor interaction regulated mGlu5b‐mediated activation of both inositol phosphate accumulation and the extracellular signal‐regulated kinase/mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathway. Overall, these findings indicate that NECAB2 by its physical interaction with mGlu5b receptor modulates receptor function.
The global invasion success of Central European plants is related to distribution characteristics in their native range and species traits
Authors: Pyšek Petr , Jarošík Vojtěch , Pergl Jan , Randall Rod , Chytrý Milan , Kühn Ingolf , Tichý Lubomír , Danihelka Jiří , Chrtek jun Jindřich , Sádlo Jiří
Published: August 2009

Aim Determining which traits predispose a species to become invasive is a fundamental question of invasion ecology, but traits affect invasiveness in concert with other factors that need to be controlled for. Here, we explore the relative effects of biological traits of plant species and their distributional characteristics in the native range on invasion success at two stages of invasion.

Location Czech Republic (for native species); and the world (for alien species).

Methods The source pool of 1218 species of seed plants native to Central Europe was derived from the flora of the Czech Republic, and their occurrence in 706 alien floras all over the world was recorded, distinguishing whether they were listed as an ‘alien’ or a ‘weed’ in the latest version of Randall’s ‘Global compendium of weeds’ database. The latter type of occurrence was considered to indicate species ability to invade and cause economic impact, i.e. a more advanced stage of invasion. Using the statistical technique of regression trees, we tested whether 19 biological traits and five distributional characteristics of the species in their native range can be used to predict species success in two stages of invasion.

Results The probability of a species becoming alien outside its native distribution range is determined by the size of its native range, and its tolerance of a wide range of climates acquired in the region of origin. Biological traits play only an indirect role at this stage of invasion via determining the size of the native range. However, the ability of species to become a weed is determined not only by the above characteristics of native distribution, but also directly by biological traits (life form and strategy, early flowering, tall stature, generative reproduction, number of ploidy levels and opportunistic dispersal by a number of vectors). Species phylogenetic relatedness plays only a minor role; it is more important at the lowest taxonomic levels and at the later stage of invasion.

Main conclusion The global success of Central European species as ‘weeds’ is determined by their distributional characteristics in the native ranges and by biological traits, but the relative importance of these determinants depends on the stage of invasion. Species which have large native ranges and are common within these ranges should be paid increased attention upon introductions, and the above biological traits should be taken into account in screening systems applied to evaluate deliberate introductions of alien plants to new regions.
Quercitrin, a bioflavonoid improves glucose homeostasis in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic tissues by altering glycolytic and gluconeogenic enzymes
Authors: Babujanarthanam Ranganathan , Kavitha Purushothaman , Pandian Moses Rajasekara
Published: August 2009

The present study is an investigation into the role of quercitrin on carbohydrate metabolism in normal and streptozotocin (STZ)‐induced diabetic rats. Administration of STZ leads to a significant increase (P < 0.05) in fasting plasma glucose and a decrease in insulin levels. The content of glycogen is significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in liver and muscle, but increased in the kidney. The activity of hexokinase decreased whereas the activities of glucose 6‐phosphatase and fructose 1,6‐bisphosphatase significantly increased (P < 0.05) in the tissues. Oral administration of quercitrin (30 mg/kg) to diabetic rats for a period of 30 days resulted in significant (P < 0.05) alterations in the parameters studied but not in normal rats. A decrease of plasma glucose and increase in insulin levels were observed along with the restoration of glycogen content and the activities of carbohydrate metabolic enzymes in quercitrin‐treated diabetic rats. The histopathological study of the pancreas revealed the protective role of quercitrin. There was an expansion of the islets and decreased fatty infiltrate of the islets in quercitrin treated diabetic rats. In normal rats treated with quercitrin, we could not observe any significant change in all the parameters studied. Combined, these results show that quercitrin plays a positive role in carbohydrate metabolism and antioxidant status in diabetic rats.
An Illustration of the Use of an Atypicality Index in Provenancing British Stone Axes
Authors: Jones M. C. , Williams‐Thorpe O.
Published: August 2009

An atypicality index has been used to compare the chemical compositions of 11 British prehistoric implements (axes and axe‐hammers, and a mace) with previously suggested and likely sources in South Wales (Group XIII spotted dolerite from the Carnmenyn area, and Group VIII rhyolite from Carnalw). Atypicality indices together with mineralogy indicate that only two out of six supposed Group XIII implements are likely to be Group XIII, and only one of the five rhyolite implements is likely to originate from Carnalw. These results provide statistical support for earlier provenancing of seven of the implements, and provide the first geochemical source information for four implements. The results illustrate the usefulness of the atypicality index in archaeology, and support the idea that Groups XIII and VIII comprise a larger variety of chemical types than previously thought. Further work is now needed to determine how prevalent this variety is within these implement groups.
Source‐Critical Methodologies in Recent Scholarship on the Khārijites
Authors: Gaiser* Adam
Published: August 2009

Many of the difficulties involved in researching the Khārijites come from the lack of primary Khārijite sources, and the subsequent need for scholars to rely on problematic non‐Khārijite sources such as heresiography. This article will devote considerable attention to recent source‐critical scholarship in English on the early medieval Khārijites (khawārij), excluding the Ibāiyya, as well as the use of the appellation ‘Khārijite’ as a modern phenomenon.
The Memory Screening Outreach Program: Findings from a Large Community‐Based Sample of Middle‐Aged and Older Adults
Authors: Crews W. David , Harrison David W. , Keiser Alison M. , Kunze Culvette M.
Published: August 2009

Few papers have been published concerning the efficacy of community‐based memory and dementia screening programs. This article examines the descriptive, clinical, and outcome characteristics of participants attending the Memory Screening Outreach Program (MSOP). The program provided free screenings of participants' short‐term memory processes, neurocognitive complaints, and depressive and psychiatric symptomatology. Screening results were subsequently forwarded to participants and their designated healthcare providers (HCPs), and approximately 8 weeks later, participants who received follow‐up recommendations were mailed a survey assessing screening‐related outcomes. One thousand community‐based persons aged 44 to 91 participated in the program at 16 screening sites. Results indicated that 44.3% of the MSOP participants received follow‐up recommendations secondary to age‐inappropriate memory impairments, depressive or psychiatric symptomatology, significant neurocognitive complaints, need for respite, or a combination thereof. Memory impairments and depressive or psychiatric symptomatology contributed, at least in part, to the recommendations of 24.0% and 30.9% of the sample, respectively. The prevalence of impaired Wechsler Memory Scale‐III subtest performances ranged from 20.5% to 5.4%, and 28.7% of the participants exhibited elevated depression inventory scores. Of the participants who returned follow‐up surveys, 49.5% visited their primary HCPs regarding their screening results; of the participants who had not followed up, 36.8% indicated plans to do so. Of the participants who followed up, contributing conditions and diagnoses were identified in 50.9%, medication or supplement recommendations or regimen changes were provided to 47.1%, and 17.0% were referred to healthcare specialists. Overall, the MSOP proved efficacious in identifying age‐inappropriate memory impairments, notable depressive and psychiatric symptomatology, and significant neurocognitive complaints in an appreciable portion of a large, community‐based, sample of middle‐aged and older adults, which, in turn, contributed to the identification and treatment of a diversity of conditions at follow‐up.
Predictors of Interleukin‐6 Elevation in Older Adults
Authors: Zhu Shuhan , Patel Kushang V. , Bandinelli Stefania , Ferrucci Luigi , Guralnik Jack M.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES: To investigate the characteristics of older adults who develop high interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels at 3‐year follow‐up.

DESIGN: Population‐based study of adults living in Tuscany, Italy.

SETTING: Community.

PARTICIPANTS: Adults aged 65 and older and were selected for this study. Of 1,155 baseline participants aged 65 and older, 741 had IL‐6 measurements at baseline and 3‐year follow‐up.

MEASUREMENTS: The uppermost quartile of IL‐6 was used as the threshold for defining high IL‐6 (≥4.18 pg/mL). Serum IL‐6 levels were assessed using enzyme immunoassay.

RESULTS: Of the 581 participants with IL‐6 levels less than 4.18 pg/mL at baseline, 106 (18.2%) had developed high IL‐6 at follow‐up. Although women had lower IL‐6 levels at baseline than men, the risk of developing high IL‐6 did not differ according to sex. High adiposity, defined as a body mass index of 30.0 kg/m2 or higher (odds ratio (OR)=2.63, 95% confidence interval (CI)=1.40–4.96), and large waist circumference, defined as 102 cm or greater for men and 88 cm or greater for women (OR=2.05, 95% CI=1.24–3.40), were significant predictors of developing high IL‐6 at follow‐up. Other significant predictors were presence of three or more chronic diseases (OR=3.66, 95% CI=1.54–8.70), higher baseline IL‐6 (OR=1.82, 95% CI=1.39–2.38) and higher white blood cell count (OR=1.24, 95% CI=1.06–1.45). Faster walking speed associated with decreased risk of progressing to elevated IL‐6 (OR=0.83, 95% CI=0.74–0.92).

CONCLUSION: Older age, greater adiposity, slower walking speed, higher disease burden, and higher white blood cell count were associated with greater risk of IL‐6 elevation over a 3‐year period. Future research should target older adults with these characteristics to prevent progression to a proinflammatory state.
A Quality Improvement Intervention to Facilitate the Transition of Older Adults from Three Hospitals Back to Their Homes
Authors: Dedhia Param , Kravet Steve , Bulger John , Hinson Tony , Sridharan Anirudh , Kolodner Ken , Wright Scott , Howell Eric
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES: To study the feasibility and effectiveness of a discharge planning intervention.

DESIGN: Quasi‐experimental pre–post study design.

SETTING: General medicine wards at three hospitals: an academic medical center, a community teaching hospital, and a community‐based nonteaching hospital.

PARTICIPANTS: All patients aged 65 and older admitted to the hospitalist services.

INTERVENTION: The intervention toolkit had five core elements: admission form with geriatric cues, facsimile to the primary care provider, interdisciplinary worksheet to identify barriers to discharge, pharmacist–physician collaborative medication reconciliation, and predischarge planning appointments.

MEASUREMENTS: Thirty‐day readmission and return to emergency department rates and patient satisfaction with discharge. Odds ratios were determined, and site effects were examined accordig to interaction terms and Breslow Day statistics.

RESULTS: Two hundred thirty‐seven patients were followed during the preintervention period, and 185 were exposed to the intervention. Patients characteristics were similar across the two time periods. The proportion of patients with high‐quality transitions home, measured according to Coleman's Care Transition Measures, increased from 68% to 89% (odds ratio (OR)=3.49, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.06–5.92). Return to the emergency department within 3 days of discharge was lower in the intervention period (10% vs 3%, OR=0.25, 95% CI=0.10–0.62). At 30 days, there was a lower rate of readmission (22% vs 14%, OR=0.59, 95% CI=0.34–0.97) and fewer visits to the emergency department (21% vs 14%, OR=0.61, 95% CI=0.36–1.03) (P=.06).

CONCLUSION: When hospitalized elderly patients are treated with consideration of their specific needs, healthcare outcomes can be improved.
Urinary di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate metabolites in athletes as screening measure for illicit blood doping: a comparison study with patients receiving blood transfusion
Authors: Monfort Núria , Ventura Rosa , Latorre Ana , Belalcazar Viviana , López Mercè , Segura Jordi
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Subjects submitted to intravenous (IV) blood transfusions for medical reasons or blood doping to increase athletic performance are potentially exposed to the plasticizer di‐(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) found in IV bags. Exposure to DEHP has been evaluated by measuring DEHP metabolites in selected groups of subjects.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Urinary DEHP metabolites, mono‐(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate, mono‐(2‐ethyl‐5‐hydroxyhexyl)phthalate (MEHHP), and mono‐(2‐ethyl‐5‐oxohexyl)phthalate (MEOHP) were measured in a control group with no explicit known exposure to DEHP (n = 30), hospitalized patients receiving blood transfusions (n = 25), nontransfused hospitalized patients receiving other medical care involving plastic materials (n = 39), and athletes (n = 127). Patients were tested in the periods 0 to 24 and 24 to 48 hours after exposition.

RESULTS: Urinary concentrations of all three DEHP metabolites were significantly higher in patients receiving blood transfusion than in nontransfused patients and the control group, except for MEHHP and MEOHP in the period 24 to 48 hours. Samples from four athletes showed increased concentrations of DEHP metabolites comparable to urinary concentrations of patients receiving blood transfusion.

CONCLUSION: Elevated concentrations of urinary DEHP metabolites represent increased exposure to DEHP. High concentrations of DEHP metabolites present in urine collected from athletes may suggest illegal blood transfusion and can be used as a qualitative screening measure for blood doping.
A noninvasive near infrared system for detection of platelet components contaminated with bacteria
Authors: Saranwong Sirinnapa , Ezuki Shoji , Kawabata Kinuyo , Kawano Sumio , Ohto Hitoshi
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Platelet (PLT) transfusion–associated bacterial sepsis has remained a substantial patient risk, primarily due to lacking effective and point‐of‐issue measures to detect bacterial contamination. This study describes near infrared (NIR) spectroscopy to examine inoculated PLTs without sampling within a few seconds.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: This study evaluated apheresis PLTs inoculated with low concentrations of Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus epidermidis, comparing with sterile bags. Short‐wavelength NIR spectra over the range from 700 to 1100 nm in the transmittance mode were obtained using research (NIRS6500, Foss NIRSystems) and portable (NIRGun, Shizuoka Shibuya Seiki) instruments at 6‐hour intervals from 0 to 72 hours after inoculation (HAI).

RESULTS: The sensitivity of the NIRS6500 was 100% (43/43) and 98% (50/51) after incubating PLTs inoculated with B. cereus for 42 HAI or more and with S. epidermidis for 54 HAI or more, respectively. Difference spectra calculated by subtracting the NIR spectra of stored PLTs with that of the same PLTs measured at 0 HAI improved the discrimination results compared with conventional second derivative spectra.

CONCLUSION: The NIRS6500 system can provide a PLT monitoring system based on difference spectra. The chemical components of PLTs that were influenced by bacterial metabolism seemed to play an important role in the calibration structure. Further studies should examine samples spiked with various species of prevalent bacteria.
Reconstructing and Registering Three‐Dimensional Rotational Angiogram of Left Atrium during Ablation of Atrial Fibrillation
Authors: TANG MIN , KRIATSELIS CHARALAMPOS , YE GANG , NEDIOS SOTIRIS , ROSER MATHIAS , SOLOWJOWA NATALIA , FLECK ECKARD , GERDS‐LI JIN‐HONG
Published: August 2009

Background: Three‐dimensional (3D) image of left atrium (LA) can greatly facilitate ablation of atrial fibrillation (AF). Reconstructing method using computed tomography (CT) has certain limitations. The 3D image of LA can be intraprocedurally reconstructed by a rotational angiography technique.

Methods: Forty‐six patients undergoing AF ablation were included in this study. Preprocedural CT imaging and intraprocedural reconstructing 3D rotational angiogram (3DRA) of LA were performed in all the patients. Rapid ventricular pacing (RVP, 300 ms) was used to inhibit the drainage of atrium. During RVP, contrast medium was injected into the LA, and rotational angiography was performed. The 3DRA was reconstructed and was registered with the live fluoroscopy. The 3DRA was evaluated in comparison to the CT image. In the navigation of the registered 3DRA, the ablation of AF was performed.

Results: Forty‐four 3DRAs (95.7%) were successfully reconstructed and registered with the live fluoroscopy. The LA anatomy was delineated in the 3DRA in comparison to a CT image. AF ablation was successfully performed in the 44 patients in the navigation of the registered 3DRA. There were good correlations in the PV ostial diameter and the LA volume as assessed by 3DRA in comparison to a CT image (r >= 0.87). The radiation exposure in rotational angiography was substantially less than that in CT scanning (2.7 ± 0.9 mSv vs. 24.9 ± 3.1 mSv, P < 0.001).

Conclusions: It is feasible to reconstruct and register the 3DRA with live fluoroscopy using the RVP method during the ablation of AF.
Duality of Conduction in an Atriofascicular Pathway During Antidromic Tachycardia
Authors: NAMBOODIRI NARAYANAN , SHARMA GAUTAM , SANDERS PRASHANTHAN
Published: August 2009

Cycle length alternation in atrioventricular reentrant tachycardia due to alternating conduction time over the dual atrioventricular (AV) nodal pathways has been well described. Atriofascicular pathways with decremental conduction characteristics (Mahaim fibers) are known to contain accessory AV nodal tissue. We describe a case of cycle‐length alternans in antidromic tachycardia through an atriofascicular pathway because of alternation in conduction time in the antegrade limb. The possible mechanisms of this phenomenon, rarely described in atriofascicular pathways, are discussed.
Single and Combined Diagnostic Value of Clinical Features and Laboratory Tests in Acute Appendicitis
Authors: Laméris Wytze , Van Randen Adrienne , Go Peter M.N.Y.H. , Bouma Wim H. , Donkervoort Sandra C. , Bossuyt Patrick M.M. , Stoker Jaap , Boermeester Marja A.
Published: August 2009

Objectives:  The objective was to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of clinical features and laboratory test results in detecting acute appendicitis.

Methods:  Clinical features and laboratory test results were prospectively recorded in a consecutive series of 1,101 patients presenting with abdominal pain at the emergency department (ED) in six hospitals. Likelihood ratios (LRs) and the areas under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) were calculated for the individual features. Variants of clinical presentation, based on different combinations of clinical features, were investigated and the accuracies of combinations of clinical features were evaluated.

Results:  The discriminative power (AUC) of the individual features in patients with suspected appendicitis ranged from 0.50 to 0.65. For five of the 23 predictor sets, the accuracy for appendicitis was more than 85%. This accuracy was only found in male patients. The relative frequency of these predictor sets ranged from 2% to 13% of patients with suspected appendicitis. A combination of the clinical features migration of pain to the right lower quadrant (RLQ), and direct tenderness in the RLQ, was present in only 28% (120/422) of clinically suspected patients, of whom no more than 85 patients had appendicitis (71%). A “classical” presentation (combination of migration of pain to the RLQ, tenderness in the RLQ, and rigidity) occurred in only 6% (25/422) of patients with suspected appendicitis and yielded an accuracy of 100% in males but only 46% in females.

Conclusions:  The discriminative power (AUC) of individual clinical features and laboratory test results for appendicitis was weak in patients with suspected appendicitis. Combinations of clinical features and laboratory tests with high diagnostic accuracy are relatively infrequent in patients with suspected appendicitis.
The Business of Emergency Medicine: A Nonclinical Curriculum Proposal for Emergency Medicine Residency Programs
Authors: Falvo Thomas , McKniff Sueanne , Smolin Gregory , Vega David , Amsterdam James T.
Published: August 2009

Over the course of their postgraduate medical education, physicians are expected not only to acquire an extensive knowledge of clinical medicine and sound procedural skills, but also to develop competence in their other professional roles as communicator, collaborator, mediator, manager, teacher, and patient advocate. Although the need for physicians to develop stronger service delivery skills is well recognized, residency programs may underemphasize formal training in nonclinical proficiencies. As a result, graduates can begin their professional careers with an incomplete understanding of the operation of health care systems and how to utilize system resources in the manner best suited to their patients’ needs. This article proposes the content, educational strategy, and needs assessment for an academic program entitled The Business of Emergency Medicine (BOEM). Developed as an adjunct to the (predominantly) clinical content of traditional emergency medicine (EM) training programs, BOEM is designed to enhance the existing academic curricula with additional learning opportunities by which EM residents can acquire a fundamental understanding of the nonclinical skills of their specialty.
Monocytes/macrophages infected with Toxoplasma gondii do not increase co‐stimulatory molecules while maintaining their migratory ability
Authors: SEIPEL DANIELE , RIBEIRO‐Gomes FLAVIA LIMA , BARCELOS MICHELLE WILLMEN , RAMALHO ANDRÉ VILLAÇA , KANASHIRO MILTON M. , KIPNIS THEREZA LIBERMAN , ARNHOLDT ANDREA CRISTINA VETO
Published: August 2009

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular parasite that is able to disseminate into deep tissues and cross biological barriers, reaching immunoprivileged sites such as the brain and retina. The parasite is able to infect macrophages and dendritic cells and use them for dispersal throughout the body, but the activation state of those cells is unknown. We investigated the ability of human and murine cells from monocytic/macrophage lineages that had not previously been exposed to inflammatory cytokines to up‐regulate co‐stimulatory and adhesion molecules upon infection. Toxoplasma gondii‐infected human monocytes (freshly isolated and THP1 lineage) were unable to up‐regulate CD86, CD83, CD40 or CD1a. CD80 expression increased in infected cells but expression of l‐selectin and β2 integrin was unaltered. We evaluated the ability of infected macrophages from wild type C57/BL/6 or CD14−/− mice to migrate in 8 μm transwells. Infected cells from CD14−/− mice were more likely to de‐adhere than infected cells from wild type mice but they did not show any increase in migratory ability. The non‐stimulatory profile of these infected cells may contribute to parasite spread throughout the lymphatic circulation in the initial phases of infection.
Varicella zoster virus: review of its management
Authors: Mustafa M. B. , Arduino P. G. , Porter S. R.
Published: August 2009

Varicella zoster virus (VZV) is one of eight herpes viruses known to infect humans. Primary infection causes varicella (chickenpox), after which virus becomes latent. Years later, VZV reactivates and causes a wide range of neurological diseases. The aim of the present report was to critically examine the published literature to evaluate advantages and limitations of therapy of VZV infection in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised patients. Aciclovir (ACV) has been the drug of choice for many years for the treatment of VZV infections. Recently, other antiviral agents have been developed to overcome the low oral bioavailability of ACV, as well as to provide a more flattering dosage regime. Chickenpox is a benign self‐limiting disease in the majority of cases and usually no specific treatment is required. Treatment of shingles is indicated to reduce the acute symptoms of pain and malaise, to limit the spread and duration of the skin lesions and to prevent the development of post‐herpetic neuralgia. Different classes of drugs have been used for the treatment of post‐herpetic neuralgia. The first choice of any of these medications should be guided by the patient’s medical health, the likely adverse effects of the drug and the patient’s preference.
Six‐year follow‐up of an intervention to improve the management of preschool children with asthma
Authors: Hederos Carl‐Axel , Janson Staffan , Hedlin Gunilla
Published: August 2009

Aims:  In a randomized controlled study involving 60 preschool children with asthma, an intervention with extra information and support to parents in the form of group discussions was performed. An earlier follow‐up after 18 months revealed an improved adherence and a reduction of exacerbation days. This is a 6‐year follow‐up.

Methods:  Fifty‐four children performed clinical examinations, blood tests, measurements of exhaled nitric oxide, spirometry, bronchial provocation with dry air and skin prick tests. Data from the patients’ records and questionnaires were obtained.

Results:  Twenty‐nine per cent had no current signs of asthma, whereas 43% exhibited persistent and 28% intermittent asthma. The burden on the healthcare system was minimal. Intermittent inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) therapy was used by 81%. The intervention group (IG) had fewer contacts with nurses. Their parents had a better quality of life. Interviewing children separately contributed in identification of children needing treatment. More children in the IG had to restart ICS as they had signs of worse asthma control.

Conclusion:  Straightforward and timely support to parents of children with asthma can have long‐term positive effects by strengthening the ability of parents to treat their children at home, although parents may also develop an underestimation of mild symptoms. It is important to directly ask children about their disease and to maintain regular follow‐up visits.
Inconclusive Cystic Fibrosis neonatal screening results: long‐term psychosocial effects on parents
Authors: Perobelli Sandra , Zanolla Luisa , Tamanini Anna , Rizzotti Paolo , Maurice Assael Baroukh , Castellani Carlo
Published: August 2009

Aim:  Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Newborn Screening occasionally identifies neonates where a CF diagnosis can neither be confirmed nor excluded. To assess how parents of these infants cope with this ambiguous situation.

Methods:  Parents of 11 children with Ambiguous Diagnosis (group AD) were compared with parents of 11 children diagnosed with CF through neonatal screening [group Cystic Fibrosis Diagnosis (CFD)] and with parents of 11 Healthy Control children (group HC) matched for gender and age.

Results:  The emotional reaction to the inconclusive result was less pronounced in AD than in CFD (p = 0.003), and AD parents considered their infants as healthy as controls. Parents’ anxiety about their child’s health is stronger in CFD than in AD (p < 0.05) and HC (p < 0.001). Long‐term emotional distress was rated similarly in AD and CFD, and greater than in HC (p = 0.0003). The parent/child relationship was less influenced in AD than in the CF group (p = 0.03). Seven AD and CFD parents changed their family planning projects.

Conclusion:  Inconclusive neonatal screening results appear to be understood and associated with lower anxiety levels than CF diagnosis. Concern about the child’s health is similar to healthy controls and lower than in parents of CF children.
The occurrence of primary nocturnal enuresis and associated factors in 5‐year‐old outpatients in Slovenia
Authors: Semolič N , Ravnikar A , Meglič A , Japelj‐Pavešić B , Kenda RB
Published: August 2009

Aim:  To determine the occurrence of primary nocturnal enuresis in 5‐year‐old outpatients in Slovenia and the possible correlations with different factors.

Methods:  The epidemiological study was conducted in Slovenia between 2005 and 2007. A special questionnaire was distributed randomly among the parents of 1846 5‐year olds in children’s outpatient clinics in all regions of Slovenia.

Results:  The response rate was on average 71.0%, which means that 7% of all Slovenian 5‐year olds were included in the study. The occurrence of primary nocturnal enuresis was 8.7% and was higher in families with many siblings (χ2 test, p < 0.01). The boy:girl ratio was 1.4 (Student t‐test, p = 0.024). Parents were found to be more disturbed by the problem than their children (χ2 test, p < 0.01). The maternal and paternal education levels of children with primary nocturnal enuresis did not differ from the Slovenian adult population (χ2 test, p > 0,05).

Conclusion:  The occurrence of primary nocturnal enuresis in 5‐year‐old outpatients in Slovenia is comparable with data from other countries. Primary nocturnal enuresis is more frequent in boys than in girls, with higher occurrence in families with more siblings, and parents are more disturbed by the problem than their children.
Contrasting patterns of tree mortality in late‐successionalPicea abiesstands in two areas in northern Fennoscandia
Authors: Aakala Tuomas , Kuuluvainen Timo , Wallenius Tuomo , Kauhanen Heikki
Published: August 2009

Question:What are tree mortality rates and how and why do they vary in late‐successionalPicea abies‐dominated forests? Do observed tree mortality patterns allow comparative assessment of models of long‐term stand development?

Location:Northern boreal Fennoscandia.

Methods:We measured stand structure in 10 stands in two different areas. We determined age distributions and constructed a chronology of tree deaths by cross‐dating the years of death of randomly sampled dead trees.

Results:The stands in the two areas had contrasting tree age distributions, despite similar live tree structure. In one area, stands were relatively even‐aged and originated following a stand‐replacing fire 317 years earlier. The stands in the second area had an uneven age structure and virtually no signs of past fires, suggesting a very long period since the last major disturbance. The younger stands were characterized by a high mortality rate and inter‐annual variation, which we attributed to senescence of the relatively even‐aged stands approaching the maximum age ofP. abies. In contrast, the tree mortality rates in the older stands were low and relatively stable.

Conclusions:Patterns of tree mortality were, to a large extent, dependent on the time since the last stand‐replacing disturbance, suggesting that northern borealP. abiesstands eventually reach a shifting mosaic state maintained through small‐scale dynamics, but the time needed to reach this state appears to be lengthy; even 300 years after a forest fire stands showed changes in patterns of tree mortality that were related to the developmental stage of the stands.
The effect of hfq on global gene expression and virulence in Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Dietrich Manuela , Munke Rebekka , Gottschald Marion , Ziska Elke , Boettcher Jan Peter , Mollenkopf Hans , Friedrich Alexandra
Published: August 2009

Hfq is an RNA chaperone that functions as a pleiotropic regulator for RNA metabolism in bacteria. In several pathogenic bacteria, Hfq contributes indirectly to virulence by binding to riboregulators that modulate the stability or translation efficiency of RNA transcripts. To characterize the role of Hfq in the pathogenicity of Neisseria gonorrhoeae, we generated an N. gonorrhoeae hfq mutant. Infectivity and global changes in gene expression caused by the hfq mutation in N. gonorrhoeae strain MS11 were analyzed. Transcriptional analysis using a custom‐made N. gonorrhoeae microarray revealed that 369 ORFs were differentially regulated in the hfq mutant, MS11hfq, in comparison with the wild‐type strain (202 were upregulated, and 167 were downregulated). The loss‐of‐function mutation in hfq led to pleiotropic phenotypic effects, including an altered bacterial growth rate and reduced adherence to epithelial cells. Twitching motility and microcolony formation were not affected. Hfq also appears to play a minor role in inducing the inflammatory response of infected human epithelial cells. Interleukin‐8 production was slightly decreased, and activation of c‐Jun N‐terminal kinase, a mitogen‐activated protein kinase, was reduced in MS11hfq‐infected epithelial cells in comparison with wild type‐infected cells. However, activation of nuclear factor kappa B, extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 remained unchanged. The data presented suggest that Hfq plays an important role as a post‐transcriptional regulator in N. gonorrhoeae strain MS11 but does not contribute significantly to its virulence in cell culture models.
Time‐dependent regulation analysis dissects shifts between metabolic and gene‐expression regulation during nitrogen starvation in baker’s yeast
Authors: van Eunen Karen , Bouwman Jildau , Lindenbergh Alexander , Westerhoff Hans V. , Bakker Barbara M.
Published: August 2009

Time‐dependent regulation analysis is a new methodology that allows us to unravel, both quantitatively and dynamically, how and when functional changes in the cell are brought about by the interplay of gene expression and metabolism. In this first experimental implementation, we dissect the initial and late response of baker’s yeast upon a switch from glucose‐limited growth to nitrogen starvation. During nitrogen starvation, unspecific bulk degradation of cytosolic proteins and small organelles (autophagy) occurs. If this is the primary cause of loss of glycolytic capacity, one would expect the cells to regulate their glycolytic capacity through decreasing simultaneously and proportionally the capacities of the enzymes in the first hour of nitrogen starvation. This should lead to regulation of the flux which is initially dominated by changes in the enzyme capacity. However, metabolic regulation is also known to act fast. To analyse the interplay between autophagy and metabolism, we examined the first 4 h of nitrogen starvation in detail using time‐dependent regulation analysis. Some enzymes were initially regulated more by a breakdown of enzyme capacity and only later through metabolic regulation. However, other enzymes were regulated metabolically in the first hours and then shifted towards regulation via enzyme capacity. We conclude that even initial regulation is subtle and governed by different molecular levels.
High‐Content Analysis of Cancer‐Cell‐Specific Apoptosis and Inhibition of in Vivo Angiogenesis by Synthetic (−)‐Pironetin and Analogs
Authors: Vogt Andreas , McPherson Peter A. , Shen Xiaoqiang , Balachandran Raghavan , Zhu Guangyu , Raccor Brianne S. , Nelson Scott G. , Tsang Michael , Day Billy W.
Published: August 2009

The natural product (−)‐pironetin is a structurally simple small molecule microtubule‐perturbing agent whose biological activities appear to be exquisitely dependent on defined stereochemistry and the presence of an eletrophilic α,β‐unsaturated lactone moiety. We used alkaloid‐catalyzed acyl halide‐aldehyde cyclocondensation reactions in asymmetric total syntheses of (−)‐pironetin and three synthetic analogs, and evaluated their biological activities by high‐content analysis in cell culture and in a zebrafish model. Synthetic (−)‐pironetin and 2,3‐dihydro‐3‐hydroxypironetin caused mitotic arrest and programmed cell death in human lung cancer cells but not in normal lung fibroblasts, had nanomolar growth inhibitory activity in multi‐drug resistant cells, and inhibited neovascularization in zebrafish embryos. Synthetic (−)‐pironetin delayed the onset but increased the extent of tubulin assembly in vitro. The data illustrate the power of acyl halide‐aldehyde cyclocondensation to generate biologically active synthetic analogs of stereochemically complex targets and suggest that (−)‐pironetin and 2,3‐dihydro‐3‐hydroxypironetin possess unique properties that may bestow them with advantages over existing microtubule‐perturbing agents in the context of a whole organism or under conditions of multi‐drug resistance.
Geographical Gerontology: Mapping a Disciplinary Intersection
Authors: Andrews Gavin J. , Milligan Christine , Phillips David R. , Skinner Mark W.
Published: August 2009

The intersection between geography and gerontology arises structurally in institutions and intellectually both in academic debates surrounding disciplinary territoriality and substantive fields of empirical inquiry (population ageing and movement; services and policy; living environments; emplacement; emotions, images and the body). Although recent years have witnessed an increasing theoretical convergence between geography and gerontology – resulting in ever fertile ground for research – a range of contemporary social processes have yet to receive substantive attention. Arising as consumer niches and economic networks, these involve connectivity across geographical scales from the local to the global. Although they provide opportunities and enrich lives, they also contribute to the continued disadvantage of older people in the developing world. We argue that addressing these in research is not only morally justifiable, it potentially generates a distinct body of theoretical knowledge that might inform ongoing empirical work.
Initial human transmission dynamics of the pandemic (H1N1) 2009 virus in North America
Authors: Pourbohloul Babak , Ahued Armando , Davoudi Bahman , Meza Rafael , Meyers Lauren A. , Skowronski Danuta M. , Villaseñor Ignacio , Galván Fernando , Cravioto Patricia , Earn David J. D. , Dushoff Jonathan , Fisman David , Edmunds W. John , Hupert Nathaniel , Scarpino Samuel V. , Trujillo Jesús , Lutzow Miguel , Morales Jorge , Contreras Ada , Chávez Carolina , Patrick David M. , Brunham Robert C.
Published: August 2009

Background  Between 5 and 25 April 2009, pandemic (H1N1) 2009 caused a substantial, severe outbreak in Mexico, and subsequently developed into the first global pandemic in 41 years. We determined the reproduction number of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 by analyzing the dynamics of the complete case series in Mexico City during this early period.

Methods  We analyzed three mutually exclusive datasets from Mexico City Distrito Federal which constituted all suspect cases from 15 March to 25 April: confirmed pandemic (H1N1) 2009 infections, non‐pandemic influenza A infections and patients who tested negative for influenza. We estimated the initial reproduction number from 497 suspect cases identified prior to 20 April, using a novel contact network methodology incorporating dates of symptom onset and hospitalization, variation in contact rates, extrinsic sociological factors, and uncertainties in underreporting and disease progression. We tested the robustness of this estimate using both the subset of laboratory‐confirmed pandemic (H1N1) 2009 infections and an extended case series through 25 April, adjusted for suspected ascertainment bias.

Results  The initial reproduction number (95% confidence interval range) for this novel virus is 1·51 (1·32–1·71) based on suspected cases and 1·43 (1·29–1·57) based on confirmed cases before 20 April. The longer time series (through 25 April) yielded a higher estimate of 2·04 (1·84–2·25), which reduced to 1·44 (1·38–1·51) after correction for ascertainment bias.

Conclusions  The estimated transmission characteristics of pandemic (H1N1) 2009 suggest that pharmaceutical and non‐pharmaceutical mitigation measures may appreciably limit its spread prior the development of an effective vaccine.
PCR‐ and Restriction Endonuclease‐Based Detection of IDH1 Mutations
Authors: Meyer Jochen , Pusch Stefan , Balss Jörg , Capper David , Mueller Wolf , Christians Arne , Hartmann Christian , Von Deimling Andreas
Published: August 2009

Hotspot mutations in codon 132 of the gene encoding isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) have emerged as the most frequent DNA alteration in astrocytomas, oligodendrogliomas and oligoastrocytomas. These mutations have been shown to be of significant diagnostic and prognostic value. So far, assessment of IDH1 mutation relied on DNA sequencing techniques.

We generated a set of primers suitable for endonuclease‐based detection of hotspot mutations in codon 132 of IDH1. This primer set will allow determining these mutations without the need of DNA sequencing. One set of primer sets is designed to detect the presence or absence of IDH1 mutations in codon 132, while the other primer sets individually recognize the R132H, R132C, R132S, R132G and R132L mutations.
Effects of Allspice, Cinnamon, and Clove Bud Essential Oils in Edible Apple Films on Physical Properties and Antimicrobial Activities
Authors: Du W‐X. , Olsen C.W. , Avena‐Bustillos R.J. , McHugh T.H. , Levin C.E. , Friedman Mendel
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT:  Essential oils (EOs) derived from plants are rich sources of volatile terpenoids and phenolic compounds. Such compounds have the potential to inactivate pathogenic bacteria on contact and in the vapor phase. Edible films made from fruits or vegetables containing EOs can be used commercially to protect food against contamination by pathogenic bacteria. EOs from cinnamon, allspice, and clove bud plants are compatible with the sensory characteristics of apple‐based edible films. These films could extend product shelf life and reduce risk of pathogen growth on food surfaces. This study evaluated physical properties (water vapor permeability, color, tensile properties) and antimicrobial activities against Escherichia coli O157:H7, Salmonella enterica, and Listeria monocytogenes of allspice, cinnamon, and clove bud oils in apple puree film‐forming solutions formulated into edible films at 0.5% to 3% (w/w) concentrations. Antimicrobial activities were determined by 2 independent methods: overlay of the film on top of the bacteria and vapor phase diffusion of the antimicrobial from the film to the bacteria. The antimicrobial activities against the 3 pathogens were in the following order: cinnamon oil > clove bud oil > allspice oil. The antimicrobial films were more effective against L. monocytogenes than against the S. enterica. The oils reduced the viscosity of the apple solutions and increased elongation and darkened the colors of the films. They did not affect water vapor permeability. The results show that apple‐based films with allspice, cinnamon, or clove bud oils were active against 3 foodborne pathogens by both direct contact with the bacteria and indirectly by vapors emanating from the films.
Improving the Palatability of Salt‐Reduced Food Using Dried Bonito Stock
Authors: Manabe Mariko , Ishizaki Sanae , Yoshioka Tatsuhito , Oginome Nozomu
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT:  The characteristic flavors, with the exception of umami, of dried bonito stock not only enhanced saltiness but also improved palatability, namely the acceptability, of salt‐reduced foods. However, the respective effects of odorants and tastants of dried bonito stock on palatability have yet to be fully explained. Thus, the effect of dried bonito stock aroma on saltiness enhancement and palatability improvement in salt‐reduced food was evaluated by sensory assessment. Probit analysis indicated that aromas of the stocks, arabushi and karebushi, did not affect the intensity of saltiness. However, the test sample with aromas of dried bonito stocks was significantly more palatable than the reference sample. The effects of the taste of dried bonito stock were also evaluated. Probit analysis indicated that enhanced saltiness was not observed in the MSG solution but was observed with the dried bonito stocks, when controlled for aroma. These results suggest that saltiness enhancement by dried bonito stock was caused by the characteristic taste (excluding umami) of dried bonito stock, while its characteristic aroma and umami were involved in preventing the loss of palatability of a low‐salt diet. Moreover, it was found that using a combination of karebushi and dried kelp, as material for making stock, could contribute effectively to the preparation of palatable salt‐reduced foods in Japan. Invention of new seasonings for improving the palatability of salt‐reduced foods could exploit these findings.
Sensitivity Comparison of Sequential Monadic and Side‐by‐Side Presentation Protocols in Affective Consumer Testing
Authors: Colyar Jessica M. , Eggett Dennis L. , Steele Frost M. , Dunn Michael L. , Ogden Lynn V.
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT:  The relative sensitivity of side‐by‐side and sequential monadic consumer liking protocols was compared. In the side‐by‐side evaluation, all samples were presented at once and evaluated together 1 characteristic at a time. In the sequential monadic evaluation, 1 sample was presented and evaluated on all characteristics, then returned before panelists received and evaluated another sample. Evaluations were conducted on orange juice, frankfurters, canned chili, potato chips, and applesauce. Five commercial brands, having a broad quality range, were selected as samples for each product category to assure a wide array of consumer liking scores. Without their knowledge, panelists rated the same 5 retail brands by 1 protocol and then 3 wk later by the other protocol. For 3 of the products, both protocols yielded the same order of overall liking. Slight differences in order of overall liking for the other 2 products were not significant. Of the 50 pairwise overall liking comparisons, 44 were in agreement. The different results obtained by the 2 protocols in order of liking and significance of paired comparisons were due to the experimental variation and differences in sensitivity. Hedonic liking scores were subjected to statistical power analyses and used to calculate minimum number of panelists required to achieve varying degrees of sensitivity when using side‐by‐side and sequential monadic protocols. In most cases, the side‐by‐side protocol was more sensitive, thus providing the same information with fewer panelists. Side‐by‐side protocol was less sensitive in cases where sensory fatigue was a factor.