bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do nurses promote urinary continence in hospitalized older people?: an exploratory study
Authors: Dingwall Lindsay , Mclafferty Ella
Published: August 2006

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to explore whether nurses working in elderly medicine and in acute medical settings promote urinary continence in older people or in reality use containment strategies.

Background.  Untreated urinary incontinence in older adults can result in prolonged hospital admission and increased risk of admission to long‐term care. Urinary incontinence can also have severe psychosocial effects on older people. Most studies relating to this topic have relied on quantitative approaches to data collection with a seeming lack of qualitative investigation into how nursing staff promote urinary continence in hospitalized older people.

Method.  Focus groups and one‐to‐one semi‐structured interviews were carried out in two NHS regions in Scotland. Registered and non‐Registered Nurses were invited to participate. Five focus groups (n = 17) and four single interviews (n = 4) were conducted. Data generated were analysed thematically using QSR N‐VIVO 2.

Findings.  Some nurses believe that older people accept urinary incontinence as a consequence of ageing. Lack of assessment results in older people being labelled as incontinent of urine. Assessment strategies in medicine for the elderly tend to focus on product identification and management of incontinence. Although nurses from all clinical areas identify the importance of promoting continence, the problem continues to be contained rather than treated. Conflicting clinical priorities, varying staff approaches to urinary continence and deficits in education are cited among the barriers to promoting continence.

Conclusions.  The results suggest that nurses continue to contain urinary incontinence rather than promoting continence in older people.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nursing staff need to be aware of the impact of untreated urinary incontinence on older people. Practitioners should promote continence rather than employing containment strategies. A validated assessment tool for older people needs to be developed. Views of older people should be sought regarding their attitudes towards urinary incontinence.
Long‐term assessment of seed limitation in plants: results from an 11‐year experiment
Authors: EHRLÉN JOHAN , MÜNZBERGOVA ZUZANA , DIEKMANN MARTIN , ERIKSSON OVE
Published: August 2006

Seed limitation of plant species distribution has received much attention in recent years. The empirical evidence of seed limitation is, however, still weak, and mostly correlative. Unambiguous evidence can only be provided by long‐term transplantation experiments.

We used an 11‐year experiment, in which seeds of six perennial forest herbs were sown into 43 patches that were either occupied or unoccupied by the target species, to investigate the importance of seed limitation. In addition, we determined whether short‐term (1–4 years) and long‐term (11 years) experimental assessments provided similar results. Given that long‐term experiments are generally not possible, we examined whether environmental factors and vegetation composition can correctly identify suitable habitats.

Our results show that the distribution of the forest herbs investigated were limited by the availability of seeds, and that this pattern was qualitatively consistent, over time. However, the number of initially unoccupied patches with successful recruitment decreased with time.

The fact that a similar trend in recruitment success was found in sowing experiments in initially occupied patches suggests that the decrease in recruitment success over time cannot solely be attributed to habitat suitability. Environmental factors, such as soil nutrients and vegetation composition, were in some cases correlated with recruitment success, but the strength of these relationships was often weak.

Our results support the notion that seed availability is an important limitation of plant species abundance and distribution. The results also point to several difficulties related to the empirical assessment of seed limitation. We therefore suggest a protocol that should enhance the quality of future experiments.
Assembly rules operating along a primary riverbed–grassland successional sequence
Authors: HOLDAWAY ROBERT J. , SPARROW ASHLEY D.
Published: August 2006

Assembly rules are broadly defined as any filter imposed on a regional species pool that acts to determine the local community structure and composition. Environmental filtering is thought to result in the formation of groups of species with similar traits that tend to co‐occur more often than expected by chance alone, known as Beta guilds. At a smaller scale, within a single Beta guild, species may be partitioned into Alpha guilds – groups of species that have similar resource use and hence should tend not to co‐occur at small scales due the principle of limiting similarity.

This research investigates the effects of successional age and the presence of an invasive exotic species on Alpha and Beta guild structuring within plant communities along two successional river terrace sequences in the Waimakariri braided river system in New Zealand.

Fifteen sites were sampled, six with and nine without the Russel lupin (Lupinus polyphyllus), an invasive exotic species. At each site, species presence/absence was recorded in 100 circular quadrats (5 cm in diameter) at 30‐cm intervals along a 30‐m transect. Guild proportionality (Alpha guild structuring) was tested for using two a priori guild classifications each containing three guilds, and cluster analysis was used to test for environmental structuring between sites.

Significant assembly rules based on Alpha guild structuring were found, particularly for the monocot and dicot guild. Guild proportionality increased with increasing ecological age, which indicated an increase in the relative importance of competitive structuring at later stages of succession. This provides empirical support for Weiher and Keddy's theoretical model of community assembly.

Lupins were associated with altered Alpha and Beta guild structuring at early mid successional sites. Lupin‐containing sites had higher silt content than sites without lupins, and this could have altered the strength and scale of competitive structuring within the communities present.

This research adds to the increasing evidence for the existence of assembly rules based on limiting similarity within plant communities, and demonstrates the need to incorporate gradients of environmental and competitive adversity when investigating the rules that govern community assembly.
Localisation and Physiological Regulation of Corticotrophin‐Releasing Factor Receptor 1 mRNA in theXenopus laevisBrain and Pituitary Gland
Authors: Calle M. , Jenks B. G. , Corstens G. J. H. , Veening J. G. , Barendregt H. P. , Roubos E. W.
Published: August 2006

InXenopus laevis, corticotrophin‐releasing factor (CRF) and urocortin 1 are present in the brain and they both are potent stimulators of α‐melanophore stimulating hormone (MSH) secretion by melanotroph cells in the pituitary gland. Because both CRF and urocortin 1 bind with high affinity to CRF receptor type 1 (CRF1) in mammals andXenopus laevis, one of the purposes of the present study was to identify the sites of action of CRF and urocortin 1 in theXenopusbrain and pituitary gland. Moreover, we raised the hypothesis that the external light intensity is a physiological condition controlling CRF1expression in the pituitary melanotroph cells. Byin situhybridisation, the presence of CRF1mRNA is demonstrated in the olfactory bulb, amygdala, nucleus accumbens, preoptic area, ventral habenular nuclei, ventromedial thalamic area, suprachiasmatic nucleus, ventral hypothalamic area, posterior tuberculum, tectum mesencephali and cerebellum. In the pituitary gland, CRF1mRNA occurs in the intermediate and distal lobe. The optical density of the CRF1mRNA hybridisation signal in the intermediate lobe of the pituitary gland is 59.4% stronger in white‐adapted animals than in black‐adapted ones, supporting the hypothesis that the environmental light condition controls CRF1mRNA expression in melanotroph cells ofX. laevis, a mechanism likely to be responsible for CRF‐ and/or urocortin 1‐stimulated secretion of α‐MSH.
Elevated KiSS‐1 Expression in the Arcuate Nucleus Prior to the Cyclic Preovulatory Gonadotrophin‐Releasing Hormone/Lutenising Hormone Surge in the Ewe Suggests a Stimulatory Role for Kisspeptin in Oestrogen‐Positive Feedback
Authors: Estrada K. M. , Clay C. M. , Pompolo S. , Smith J. T. , Clarke I. J.
Published: August 2006

Kisspeptins are encoded by the gene KiSS‐1 and regulate gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) and gonadotrophin secretion in various species, including humans. Here, we quantify gene expression of KiSS‐1 in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) across the ovine oestrous cycle and demonstrate an increase in the caudal division of the ARC during the preovulatory period. These data strongly suggest that kisspeptins are involved in the generation of the preovulatory GnRH and luteinising hormone surge.
Does the clinical outcome of hepatitis C infection vary with the infecting hepatitis C virus type?
Authors: Harris H. E. , Eldridge K. P. , Harbour S. , Alexander G. , Teo C.‐G. , Ramsay M. E. ,   The HCV National Register Steering Group
Published: August 2006

Summary.  Whether differences in the natural history of hepatitis C virus (HCV) can be explained by differences in the infecting HCV type is unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate whether the HCV type might influence the clinical outcome of infection. Study serum samples were assembled from 749 individuals enrolled into the UK HCV National Register from which data on clinical outcomes were extracted. HCV‐RNA‐positive specimens were genotyped and HCV‐RNA‐negative specimens serotyped. Logistic regression analysis was used to investigate the independent effect of HCV type on viral clearance by comparing patients who were HCV RNA negative (n = 86) with those who were HCV RNA positive (n = 508). The same method was used to investigate whether HCV type was associated with histological stage of liver disease. The prevalence of HCV type 1 among those who cleared infection was 69% and among those who remained HCV RNA positive was 51%: Type 1 infections were more likely to be HCV RNA negative than non‐1 types (OR 0.47, 95% CI 0.29–0.78, P = 0.003). Type 1 infections were also more likely to be associated with histological stage scores above the median when compared with non‐1 types (OR 2.03, 95% CI 1.07–3.83, P = 0.03). In conclusion, HCV type 1 infection was more often HCV RNA negative, suggesting that spontaneous clearance may occur more commonly with this type. Among the RNA‐positive infections, type 1 infection may be more aggressive than types 2/3.
Genetic enrichment of the arctic clonal plantSaxifraga cernuaat its southern periphery via the alpine sexualSaxifraga sibirica
Authors: KAPRALOV MAXIM V. , GABRIELSEN TOVE M. , SARAPULTSEV IVAN E. , BROCHMANN CHRISTIAN
Published: August 2006

Isolation of populations at the margins of a species range may lead to decreasing genetic diversity via genetic drift and inbreeding. Hybridization between peripheral populations of two species can, however, counteract genetic impoverishment. The mainly clonal, polyploid plantSaxifraga cernuahas a wide arctic distribution but also extends southwards into alpine sites. In the Ural Mountains, its peripheral distribution overlaps with that of its sexually reproducing, diploid relativeSaxifraga sibirica, and fertile polyploids of more or less intermediate appearance are found in this overlap zone. We used amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) analysis to address the potential impact of interspecific gene flow on genetic diversity in the peripheral populations. A total of 149 plants from 17 populations along a 1650 km south–north gradient were analysed for 253 markers. The results suggest that three Middle Ural populations containing fertile and morphologically more or less intermediate plants have been affected by hybridization. All of these plants formed a strongly supported (100%) group withS. cernuain a neighbour‐joining tree, but their AFLP phenotypes assigned either toS. cernuaor to artificial (simulated) F1hybrids betweenS. cernuaandS. sibiricain multilocus assignment tests. The three populations were highly diverse with virtually every plant representing a distinct AFLP phenotype, providing additional evidence for formation of later‐generation hybrids and/or backcrossing toS. cernua. In contrast, other peripheral populations ofS. cernuawere typically monoclonal, suggesting that hybridization withS. sibiricacan increase genetic diversity inS. cernuaat its southern periphery.
Comparative analysis of the within‐population genetic structure in wild cherry (Prunus avium L.) at the self‐incompatibility locus and nuclear microsatellites
Authors: SCHUELER SILVIO , TUSCH ALEXANDRA , SCHOLZ FLORIAN
Published: August 2006

Gametophytic self‐incompatibility (SI) systems in plants exhibit high polymorphism at the SI controlling S‐locus because individuals with rare alleles have a higher probability to successfully pollinate other plants than individuals with more frequent alleles. This process, referred to as frequency‐dependent selection, is expected to shape number, frequency distribution, and spatial distribution of self‐incompatibility alleles in natural populations. We investigated the genetic diversity and the spatial genetic structure within a Prunus avium population at two contrasting gene loci: nuclear microsatellites and the S‐locus. The S‐locus revealed a higher diversity (15 alleles) than the eight microsatellites (4–12 alleles). Although the frequency distribution of S‐alleles differed significantly from the expected equal distribution, the S‐locus showed a higher evenness than the microsatellites (Shannon's evenness index for the S‐locus: E = 0.91; for the microsatellites: E = 0.48–0.83). Also, highly significant deviations from neutrality were found for the S‐locus whereas only minor deviations were found for two of eight microsatellites. A comparison of the frequency distribution of S‐alleles in three age‐cohorts revealed no significant differences, suggesting that different levels of selection acting on the S‐locus or on S‐linked sites might also affect the distribution and dynamics of S‐alleles. Autocorrelation analysis revealed a weak but significant spatial genetic structure for the multilocus average of the microsatellites and for the S‐locus, but could not ascertain differences in the extent of spatial genetic structure between these locus types. An indirect estimate of gene dispersal, which was obtained to explain this spatial genetic pattern, indicated high levels of gene dispersal within our population (σg = 106 m). This high gene dispersal, which may be partly due to the self‐incompatibility system itself, aids the effective gene flow of the microsatellites, thereby decreasing the contrast between the neutral microsatellites and the S‐locus.
Assessment of the diversity and species specificity of the mutualistic association between Epicephala moths and Glochidion trees
Authors: KAWAKITA ATSUSHI , KATO MAKOTO
Published: August 2006

The obligate mutualisms between flowering plants and their seed‐parasitic pollinators constitute fascinating examples of interspecific mutualisms, which are often characterized by high levels of species diversity and reciprocal species specificity. The diversification in these mutualisms has been thought to occur through simultaneous speciation of the partners, mediated by tight reciprocal adaptation; however, recent studies cast doubt over this general view. In this study, we examine the diversity and species specificity of Epicephala moths (Gracillariidae) that pollinate Glochidion trees (Phyllanthaceae), using analysis of mitochondrial and nuclear gene sequences. Phylogenetic analysis of Epicephala moths associated with five Glochidion species in Japan and Taiwan reveal six genetically isolated species that are also distinguishable by male genital morphology: (i) two species specific to single host species (G. acuminatum and G. zeylanicum, respectively); (ii) two species that coexist on G. lanceolatum; and (iii) two species that share two, closely‐related parapatric hosts (G. obovatum and G. rubrum). Statistical analysis shows that the two species associated with G. lanceolatum are not sister species, indicating the colonization of novel Glochidion host in at least one lineage. Behavioural observations suggest that all six species possess the actively‐pollinating habit, thus none of the studied species has become a nonmutualistic ‘cheater’ that exploits the benefit resulting from pollination by other species. Our results parallel recent findings in ecologically similar associations, namely the fig–fig wasp and yucca–yucca moth mutualisms, and contribute to a more general understanding of the factors that determine ecological and evolutionary outcomes in these mutualisms.
Expression profiling and mutant analysis reveals complex regulatory networks involved in Arabidopsis response to Botrytis infection
Authors: AbuQamar Synan , Chen Xi , Dhawan Rahul , Bluhm Burton , Salmeron John , Lam Stephen , Dietrich Robert A. , Mengiste Tesfaye
Published: August 2006

The expression profiles of Botrytis‐inoculated Arabidopsis plants were studied to determine the nature of the defense transcriptome and to identify genes involved in host responses to the pathogen. Normally resistant Arabidopsis wild‐type plants were compared with coi1, ein2, and nahG plants that are defective in various defense responses and/or show increased susceptibility to Botrytis. In wild‐type plants, the expression of 621 genes representing approximately 0.48% of the Arabidopsis transcriptome was induced greater than or equal to twofold after infection. Of these 621 Botrytis‐induced genes (BIGs), 462 were induced at or before 36 h post‐inoculation, and may be involved in resistance to the pathogen. The expression of 181 BIGs was dependent on a functional COI1 gene required for jasmonate signaling, whereas the expression of 63 and 80 BIGs were dependent on ethylene (ET) signaling or salicylic acid accumulation, respectively, based on results from ein2 and nahG plants. BIGs encode diverse regulatory and structural proteins implicated in pathogen defense and abiotic and oxidative‐stress responses. Thirty BIGs encode putative DNA‐binding proteins that belong to ET response, zinc‐finger, MYB, WRKY, and HD‐ZIP family transcription‐factor proteins. Fourteen BIGs were studied in detail to determine their role in resistance to Botrytis. T‐DNA insertion alleles of ZFAR1 (At2G40140), the gene encoding a putative zinc‐finger protein with ankyrin‐repeat domains, showed increased local susceptibility to Botrytis and sensitivity to germination in the presence of abscisic acid (ABA), supporting the role of ABA in mediating responses to Botrytis infection. In addition, two independent T‐DNA insertion alleles in the WRKY70 gene showed increased susceptibility to Botrytis. The transcriptional activation of genes involved in plant hormone signaling and synthesis, removal of reactive oxygen species, and defense and abiotic‐stress responses, coupled with the susceptibility of the wrky70 and zfar1 mutants, highlights the complex genetic network underlying defense responses to Botrytis in Arabidopsis.
Pemphigus: Analysis of 1209 cases
Authors: Chams‐Davatchi Cheyda , Valikhani Mahin , Daneshpazhooh Maryam , Esmaili Nafiseh , Balighi Kamran , Hallaji Zahra , Barzegari Massoume , Akhiani Maryam , Ghodsi Zahra , Mortazavi Hosein , Naraghi Zahra
Published: August 2006

Background  Pemphigus is a rare and chronic life‐threatening disease. The clinical picture varies in reports from different regions of the world.

Objective  To define the clinical forms of pemphigus in a large cohort of patients.

Methods  Prospective analysis of 1209 patients diagnosed and followed at the Pemphigus Research Unit, Tehran University for Medical Sciences, from 1984 to 2003.

Results   The mean age at onset was 42 years with a female to male ratio of 1.5/1. The most frequent form was pemphigus vulgaris. In pemphigus vulgaris, patients’ mucous membrane involvement alone was observed in 18%, skin involvement alone in 12%, and both in 70%. Pemphigus foliaceus was observed in 7% of the patients. Most complications were iatrogenic.

Conclusion  In Iran, pemphigus vulgaris is the most frequent form of pemphigus. Females are more prone to the disease. The incidence of pemphigus in Tehran is approximately 1.6 per 100 000/year, and in Iran 1.0 per 100 000/year. The age of onset was lower than classically reported. Death occurred in 6.2% of the patients. In pemphigus vulgaris, the mucosal and skin form together had a worse prognosis than the other clinical forms.
Pigmented purpuric dermatosis and hepatitis profile: a report on 10 patients
Authors: Dessoukey M. Wagdy , Abdel‐Dayem Hussein , Omar Mohamed F. , Al‐Suweidi Naeema E.
Published: August 2006

Background  Pigmented purpuric dermatosis comprises a group of vascular disorders of unknown etiology. Histologically, it is characterized by lymphocytic capillaritis in the papillary dermis. Although leukocytoclastic vasculitis confined to the skin is frequently reported with hepatitis C, lymphocytic vasculitis is rarely reported.

Methods  Ten patients with pigmented purpuric dermatosis were studied clinically and histopathologically. Hepatitis profile was carried out in all of the patients to evaluate the possible relation.

Results  Of the 10 patients, five tested positive for hepatitis C and two for hepatitis B antibodies.

Conclusion  Hepatitis C and B virus may play a role in the pathogenesis of pigmented purpuric dermatosis. Further case–control studies are necessary to confirm this conclusion.
Characterization of HLA‐B*5516, ‐B*1313, ‐B*9512, and ‐DRB1*1457 alleles identified in a southwest Chinese population†
Authors: Chen Q. , Zou H. , Xu X. H. , Luo M. , Wang J. , Zuo Y. Q. , Chen Y. H. , Chen X. H. , Chen X. L. , Yao Z. Q. , Song N. , Zeng J. , Mi X. Y. , Sun S. X. , Wang J. X. , Zhao T. M.
Published: August 2006

The human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐B*5516 allele differs from the B*5502 by a single 97 T → C substitution (His to Tyr at position 33) in exon 2. The B*1313 allele results from 419 T → A and 420 A → C substitutions, encoding a Leu to Tyr substitution at 140 in exon 2 of the B*1301 allele. The B*9512 allele differs from B*1502 by a single 360 G → C substitution (Gln to His at 120) in exon 3. The DRB1*1457 allele appears to be a hybrid molecule generated by recombination between the DRB1*13 and DRB1*14 alleles. The serological equivalents of these new alleles are HLA‐B22, ‐B13, ‐B15, and DR13, respectively. Family studies detected two rare haplotypes: A*11, B*9512, DRB1*14 and A*24, B*52, Cw*07, DRB1*1457, DRB3*020201, DQB1*050301. The gene frequencies of these alleles in the Chinese population are less than 0.0001.
Association of Eubacterium nodatum and Treponema denticola with human periodontitis lesions
Authors: Haffajee A. D. , Teles R. P. , Socransky S. S.
Published: August 2006

Background:  The purpose of the present investigation was to compare the levels, proportions and percentage of sites colonized by 40 bacterial species in subgingival plaque samples from periodontally healthy subjects and patients with chronic periodontitis to seek possible pathogens other than the consensus pathogens Porphyromonas gingivalis and Tannerella forsythia.

Method:  Subgingival plaque samples were taken from the mesial aspect of each tooth in 635 subjects with chronic periodontitis and 189 periodontally healthy subjects. The samples were individually analyzed for their content of 40 bacterial species using checkerboard DNA–DNA hybridization (total samples = 21,832). Mean counts, % DNA probe counts and percentage of sites colonized at >105 were determined for each species in each subject and then averaged in each clinical group. Significance of difference between groups was determined using the Mann–Whitney test. Association between combinations of species and periodontal status was examined by stepwise logistic regression analysis. Analyses were repeated using a subset of subjects from both clinical groups who had proportions of P. gingivalis plus T. forsythia less than the median (4.42%) found in periodontally healthy subjects. All analyses were adjusted for multiple comparisons.

Results:  For the 824 subjects the consensus pathogens P. gingivalis and T. forsythia as well as Eubacterium nodatum and Treponema denticola had significantly higher mean counts, proportions and percentage of sites colonized in samples from subjects with periodontitis than from periodontally healthy subjects. There were significantly more Capnocytophaga gingivalis, Streptococcus gordonii and Veillonella parvula in periodontally healthy subjects. E. nodatum, T. denticola, Streptococcus oralis, Streptococcus intermedius, Fusobacterium nucleatum ssp. vincentii all had higher counts and proportions in diseased than healthy subjects who had low proportions of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia. Logistic regression analysis indicated that the same species groups were associated with disease status after adjusting for the proportions of the other species.

Conclusions:  This investigation confirmed the strong association of P. gingivalis and T. forsythia with chronic periodontitis and emphasized a strong association of E. nodatum and T. denticola with periodontitis whether in the presence or absence of high levels of the consensus pathogens. Other species, including S. oralis, Eikenella corrodens, S. intermedius and F. nucleatum ssp. vincentii, were associated with disease when P. gingivalis and T. forsythia were present in low proportions.
Resistance to acidic and alkaline environments in the endodontic pathogen Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Nakajo K. , Komori R. , Ishikawa S. , Ueno T. , Suzuki Y. , Iwami Y. , Takahashi N.
Published: August 2006

Background/aims:  This study aimed to investigate the biochemical mechanisms employed by the endodontic pathogen Enterococcus faecalis to confer acid‐ and alkali‐resistance and to compare these with the mechanisms of representative oral streptococci.

Methods:  E. faecalis JCM8728, Streptococcus mutans NCTC10449 and Streptococcus sanguinis ATCC10556 were used to assess both acid‐ and alkali‐resistance by examining: (i) growth in complex media; (ii) stability of intracellular pH (pHin); (iii) cell durability to leakage of preloaded BCECF (2′,7′‐bis‐(2‐carboxyethyl)‐5,6‐carboxy‐fluorescein); and (iv) cell permeability to SYTOX‐Green.

Results:  Growth was initiated by E. faecalis at pH 4.0–11.0, by S. mutans at pH 4.0–9.0 and by S. sanguinis at pH 5.0–9.0. The pHin was similar to the extracellular pH in S. mutans and S. sanguinis at pH 5–10, while the pHin of E. faecalis was maintained at approximately 7.5–8.5 when extracellular pH was 7.5–10 and was maintained at levels equivalent to the extracellular pH when pH < 7.5. Cell membranes of E. faecalis were resistant to BCECF leakage when extracellular pH was 2.5–12 and to SYTOX‐Green permeability at pH 4–10. The cell membrane durability to extracellular pH in E. faecalis was higher than that observed in the Streptococcus strains.

Conclusion:  Compared to S. mutans, E. faecalis was found to be equally resistant to acid and more resistant to alkalis. The results suggest that pH‐resistance in E. faecalis is attributed to membrane durability against acid and alkali, in addition to cell membrane‐bound proton‐transport systems. These characteristics may account for why E. faecalis is frequently isolated from acidic caries lesions and from persistently infected root canals where calcium hydroxide medication is ineffective.
Oral adhesion and survival of probiotic and other lactobacilli and bifidobacteria in vitro
Authors: Haukioja A. , Yli‐Knuuttila H. , Loimaranta V. , Kari K. , Ouwehand A. C. , Meurman J. H. , Tenovuo J.
Published: August 2006

Introduction:  Most probiotic products are consumed orally and hence it is feasible that the bacteria in these products may also attach to oral surfaces; however, the effects of these bacteria on the oral ecosystem are mostly unknown. Our aim was to evaluate the oral colonization potential of different probiotic, dairy, and fecal Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium strains in vitro.

Methods:  The binding of 17 Lactobacillus and seven Bifidobacterium strains to hydroxyapatite and microtitre wells coated with human saliva was tested. Binding of selected strains to human buccal epithelial cells and co‐adherence with Fusobacterium nucleatum were also investigated. In addition, the survival in sterilized human whole saliva was examined.

Results:  There was a large variation in binding to saliva‐coated surfaces and buccal epithelial cells but all strains survived in saliva. The binding pattern of the probiotics did not differ from the binding of the fecal strains. F. nucleatum altered the binding of both the low‐binding bifidobacteria and the high‐binding lactobacilli.

Conclusion:  The differences in binding in vitro may indicate that there are also differences in the persistence of the different probiotic strains in the oral cavity in vivo.
Immune response in humans to a nasal boost with Streptococcus mutans antigens
Authors: Childers N. K. , Li F. , Dasanayake A. P. , Li Y. , Kirk K. , Michalek S. M.
Published: August 2006

We previously reported that a Streptococcus mutans enriched‐glucosytransferase (E‐GTF) preparation induces an immune response following intranasal, but not tonsillar, immunization of humans. In this study, we determined whether intranasal immunization of these subjects 2 years later resulted in augmented immune responses compared to those seen in control subjects. Subjects previously immunized via the intranasal (IN, n = 7) or tonsillar (IT, n = 7) route and control (n = 12) subjects were immunized via the intranasal route with E‐GTF. Nasal wash, saliva, and serum were collected before immunization and then weekly for 3 months after immunization. Significant (P < 0.05) mucosal and serum immunoglobulin A (IgA) anti‐E‐GTF responses were observed in all three groups. Nasal and serum IgA anti‐E‐GTF responses were significantly higher (P < 0.05) in the IN group. The salivary responses in the three groups were, in general, similar. These results indicate that intranasal immunization primes the immune system for a localized secondary response to S. mutans antigens.
Effect of probiotics on vaccine antibody responses in infancy – a randomized placebo‐controlled double‐blind trial
Authors: Kukkonen Kaarina , Nieminen Tea , Poussa Tuija , Savilahti Erkki , Kuitunen Mikael
Published: August 2006

Probiotics are immunomodulatory and may thus affect vaccine antibody responses. With the accumulating evidence of their health‐promoting effects, probiotics are increasingly administered in allergy‐prone infants. Therefore, we studied the effect of probiotics on antibody responses to diphtheria, tetanus and Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccines in 6‐month‐old infants participating in a randomized placebo‐controlled double‐blind allergy‐prevention trial. Mothers of unborn children at increased risk for atopy used a combination of four probiotic strains, or a placebo, for 4 wk before delivery. During 6 months from birth, their infants received the same probiotics and galacto‐oligosaccharides, or a placebo. The infants were immunized with a DTwP (diphtheria, tetanus and whole cell pertussis) at ages 3, 4, and 5 months, and with a Hib polysaccharide conjugate at 4 months. Serum diphtheria, tetanus, and Hib IgG antibodies were measured at 6 months. In the probiotic group, protective Hib antibody concentrations (≥1 μg/ml) occurred more frequently, 16 of 32 (50%) vs. six of 29 (21%) (p = 0.020), and the geometric mean (inter‐quartile range) Hib IgG concentration tended to be higher 0.75 (0.15–2.71) μg/ml than in the placebo group 0.40 (0.15–0.92) μg/ml (p = 0.064). In these respective groups, diphtheria, 0.38 (0.14–0.78) vs. 0.47 (0.19–1.40) IU/ml (p = 0.449), and tetanus, 1.01(0.47–1.49) vs. 0.81 (0.56–1.39) IU/ml (p = 0.310), IgG titers were comparable. In conclusion, in allergy‐prone infants probiotics seem not to impair antibody responses to diphtheria, tetanus, or Hib, but may improve response to Hib immunization.
Prevalence of latex sensitization and allergy in Portuguese children
Authors: Jorge Arminda , Lorente Félix , Taborda‐Barata Luís
Published: August 2006

The prevalence of latex allergy has been increasing not only in risk groups but also in the general population, where it is accepted to average 1%. In children, latex sensitization prevalence studies are scarce and involve different population sampling and allergy testing methods, which makes it difficult to compare across studies. Nevertheless, existing studies point towards a low prevalence of latex allergy in children, which still needs to be confirmed in the Portuguese population. Aiming at studying the prevalence of latex sensitization and allergy in a sample of Portuguese children, we studied 182 children from two different hospital outpatient clinics. A standardized questionnaire focusing on atopic background, previous history and allergic signs or symptoms on exposure to latex or fruits was given to all children and parents. Skin prick testing was performed with a battery of common aeroallergens as well as latex. Serum total IgE, Phadiatop, F × 5E and latex‐specific IgE were determined in all children. Specific IgE to latex‐crossreacting fruits was determined in latex‐sensitized children. Based upon the questionnaire, the prevalence of latex allergy would be 0.5%. The prevalence of latex sensitization would be 3.8%, when based solely upon skin prick testing, and 12.1% (≥0.35 IU/ml) or 6.6% (≥0.70 IU/ml) when based singly upon determination of latex‐specific IgE. When positive results for either test were considered, the prevalence of latex sensitization was 14.3%. All latex‐sensitized children were atopic. Sensitivity to latex‐crossreacting foodstuffs was demonstrated in 61.5% of latex‐sensitized children (16/26). This study shows that the prevalence of latex allergy and sensitization in Portuguese atopic and non‐atopic children, as analysed using various diagnostic methods, is similar to that observed in other countries. In addition, the assessment of latex allergy and sensitization should always include skin prick testing and determination of serum IgE.
Budesonide/formoterol improves lung function compared with budesonide alone in children with asthma1
Authors: Pohunek Petr , Kuna Piotr , Jorup Carin , De Boeck Kris
Published: August 2006

We aimed to compare the efficacy and safety of budesonide/formoterol (Symbicort®) with budesonide alone (Pulmicort®) or budesonide (Pulmicort) and formoterol (Oxis®) administered via separate inhalers in children with asthma. In a 12 wk, double‐blind study, a total of 630 children with asthma (mean age 8 yr [4–11 yr]; mean forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) 92% predicted; mean inhaled corticosteroid dose 454 μg/day) were randomized to: budesonide/formoterol (80/4.5 μg, two inhalations twice daily); a corresponding dose of budesonide alone (100 μg, two inhalations twice daily); or a corresponding dose of budesonide (100 μg, two inhalations twice daily) and formoterol (4.5 μg, two inhalations twice daily) (budesonide + formoterol in separate inhalers). The primary efficacy variable was the change from baseline to treatment (average of the 12‐wk treatment period) in morning peak expiratory flow (PEF). Other changes in lung function and asthma symptoms were assessed, as was safety. Budesonide/formoterol significantly improved morning PEF, evening PEF and FEV1 compared with budesonide (all p < 0.001); there was no significant difference between budesonide/formoterol and budesonide + formoterol in separate inhalers for these variables. All other diary card variables improved from baseline in all treatment groups; there were no significant between‐group differences. Adverse‐event profiles were similar in all groups; there were no serious asthma‐related adverse events in any treatment group. Conclusion: budesonide/formoterol significantly improved lung function in children (aged 4–11 yr) with asthma compared with budesonide alone. Budesonide/formoterol is a safe and effective treatment option for children with asthma.
Antibodies directed to pig non‐Gal antigens in naïve and sensitized baboons
Authors: Ezzelarab Mohamed , Hara Hidetaka , Busch Jamie , Rood Pleunie P. M. , Zhu Xiaocheng , Ibrahim Zuhaib , Ball Suyapa , Ayares David , Awwad Michel , Cooper David K. C.
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Background:  As pigs homozygous for α1,3‐galactosyltransferase gene‐knockout (GT‐KO) are available, primate antibodies to pig non‐Gal antigens can be studied.

Methods:  Sera from 56 baboons were tested for binding of IgM and IgG to peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) from both wild‐type (WT) and GT‐KO pigs by flow cytometry. Complement‐dependent cytotoxicity was measured in 39 sera. Antibody and cytotoxicity responses were measured in two baboons exposed to a GT‐KO pig heart, one not immunosuppressed and one that received only cobra venom factor.

Results:  IgM and IgG bound to 95% and 79% of WT PBMC, and 32% and 9% GT‐KO PBMC, respectively (WT vs. GT‐KO, P < 0.01). Whereas 97% of sera were cytotoxic to WT PBMC, only 64% were cytotoxic to GT‐KO PBMC, and the level of cytotoxicity was less (mean 60% vs. 25% lysis, P < 0.05). In the two baboons exposed to GT‐KO hearts, anti‐non‐Gal antibodies increased markedly, peaking after 2 (IgM) and 3 (IgG) weeks, associated with an increase in lysis of GT‐KO PBMC.

Conclusions:  Two‐thirds of baboon sera demonstrated cytotoxicity to GT‐KO PBMC. After GT‐KO organ transplantation, if an elicited antibody response develops, it is likely to cause rapid graft rejection.
Amino acid sequence of the Pekingese dog prion protein gene
Authors: Wu Changde , Pang Wanyong , Yang Jianmin , Zhou Xiangmei , Zhao Deming
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Prion diseases are neurodegenerative disorders in humans and various animals associated with a proteinaceous infectious pathogen, designated prion. Canine species seem to be resistant to the infection and no natural prion disease has been documented in dogs. The polymorphisms within the open reading frame of the prion protein gene are associated with the susceptibility of the species, and species barriers, to prion diseases. In the present study, the open reading frame of the prion protein (Prnp) gene from 16 Pekingese dogs was cloned and screened for polymorphisms. One nucleotide polymorphism (G489C) was found; the G to C nucleotide substitution results in a glutamic to aspartic acid change at codon 163. The amino acid sequence of the Pekingese Prnp gene showed the highest homology with that of greyhounds (AF042843), when compared with other Prnp genes in GenBank. Glu/Asp163 and asparagine 107 in canine prion protein genes were replaced by asparagine and serine, respectively, in all the prion protein genes examined. These substitutes might in turn affect the potential intermolecular interactions critical for cross‐species transmission of prion disease and might influence the canine susceptibility to prion infection.
Hospital personnel faced with organ xenotransplantation: an attitudinal survey in a hospital with a pre‐clinical liver xenotransplantation program
Authors: Ríos A. , Conesa C. , Ramírez P. , Galindo P.J. , Rodríguez M.M. , Martínez L , Montoya M.J. , Rodríguez J.M. , Parrilla P.
Published: August 2006

Abstract: Background: In situations of extreme urgency when there is a need for vital organs, xenotransplantation could provide a bridge until the arrival of a human organ. However, it is important to find out the level of acceptance of this potential therapy among the health care workers who would be involved in its implementation. The objective of this study is to analyze attitude among personnel in a hospital with a pre‐clinical xenotransplantation program toward xenotransplantation and to determine the variables that influence this attitude.

Materials and methods: A random sample (n = 1168) was taken and stratified according to job category and service. Attitude toward xenotransplantation was evaluated using a validated questionnaire. Contact was made with the head of each service who was given an explanation of the project. This person was made responsible for the distribution and collection of the survey in each service in randomly selected work shifts. Such a survey was completed anonymously and was self‐administered. A random sample of 250 individuals from our regional community was used as a control group.

Results: The survey completion rate was 98% (n = 1148). Most respondents are in favor (67%), 7% are against and 26% undecided. Such an attitude is more favorable in the control group (74% vs. 67%; P = 0.0378). The following factors are positively related to such an attitude: (1) male sex (P < 0.0005); (2) a younger age (P = 0.013); (3) participation in prosocial voluntary activities (P = 0.002); (4) knowing that the church has a positive attitude toward donation and transplantation (P < 0.0005); (5) a partner's favorable attitude toward transplantation (P < 0.0005); (6) a physician's job category (P < 0.0005); (7) a resident physician's job contract situation (P = 0.017); (8) a respondent's belief that he or she may need a transplant in the future (P < 0.0005); and (9) a favorable attitude toward human donation, whether this be cadaveric or living (P < 0.0005). In the multivariate analysis, the following persist as independent variables: (1) sex (odds ratio = 1.6); (2) participation in prosocial voluntary activities (odds ratio = 2.2); (3) a partner's unfavorable attitude toward transplantation (odds ratio = 0.3); (4) a favorable attitude toward cadaveric donation (odds ratio = 2); and (5) attitude toward living liver donation (odds ratio = 3.8).

Conclusions: Attitude toward xenotransplantation is not as favorable among hospital personnel as it is in the general public and this is determined by many factors. It will be necessary for research groups to periodically carry out awareness‐raising activities about our findings in our own centers, to avoid the rejection that could be generated by a lack of awareness.
Pancreas storage in oxygenated perfluorodecalin does not restore post‐transplant function of isolated pig islets pre‐damaged by warm ischemia
Authors: Brandhorst Daniel , Iken Marcus , Bretzel Reinhard G. , Brandhorst Heide
Published: August 2006

Abstract:  Background:  Cold storage in oxygenated perfluorodecalin (PFD) restores transplant function of ischemically damaged dog pancreata and reduces the impact of cold ischemia on recovery of isolated human islets. Whether PFD storage can improve islet isolation from pancreata exposed to significant warm ischemia (WI) is unclear yet. The present study aimed to clarify this question in adult pigs.

Methods:  After exsanguination, the intestine was removed immediately or left in the cavity for 30 min of WI. Resected pancreata were intraductally flushed with cold University of Wisconsin solution. Subsequently, pancreata were processed immediately by digestion‐filtration (group I: 0 min WI, n = 6; II: 30 min WI, n = 6) or first stored for 3 h in oxygenated PFD (III: 0 min WI + PFD, n = 5; IV: 30 min WI + PFD, n = 6).

Results:  Pancreata subjected to 30 min of WI yielded significantly less islets compared with the corresponding non‐ischemic organs (I vs. II, P < 0.01; III vs. IV, P < 0.05). Oxygenation did not ameliorate the loss in islet yield (II vs. IV, NS). Ischemic islets were characterized by depleted ATP stores (388 ± 73 (I) vs. 133 ± 22 ng/1000 IEQ (II), P < 0.01) and diminished insulin response to glucose calculated as stimulation index (SI; 2.47 ± 0.36 (I) vs. 0.25 ± 0.17 (II), P < 0.05). PFD storage of ischemic organs partially restored ATP content (217 ± 23 ng/1000 IEQ, II vs. IV, P < 0.05) and glucose SI (1.60 ± 0.09, II vs. IV, P < 0.05) to a significant extent that reached the level of corresponding PFD‐stored, non‐ischemic pancreata (III vs. IV, NS). Sustained normoglycemia was exclusively observed in diabetic nude mice transplanted with islets isolated from non‐ischemic organs. The significantly reduced graft function of ischemic islets (I vs. II, III vs. IV, P < 0.001) was not increased by pancreatic oxygenation (II vs. IV, NS).

Conclusions:  The present study suggests that pancreas short‐term storage in oxygenated PFD improves in vitro but not the in vivo function of ischemically damaged pig islets.
Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and blood transfusion: results of the UK Transfusion Medicine Epidemiological Review study
Authors: Hewitt P. E. , Llewelyn C. A. , Mackenzie J. , Will R. G.
Published: August 2006

Background and Objectives  This paper reports the results to 1 March 2006 of an ongoing UK study, the Transfusion Medicine Epidemiological Review (TMER), by the National CJD Surveillance Unit (NCJDSU) and the UK Blood Services (UKBS) to determine whether there is any evidence that Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD), including sporadic CJD (sCJD), familial CJD (fCJD), and variant CJD (vCJD) is transmissible via blood transfusion.

Materials and Methods  Sporadic CJD and fCJD cases with a history of blood donation or transfusion are notified to UKBS. All vCJD cases aged > 17 years are notified to UKBS on diagnosis. A search for donation records is instigated and the fate of all donations is identified by lookback. For cases with a history of blood transfusion, hospital and UKBS records are searched to identify blood donors. Details of identified recipients and donors are checked against the NCJDSU register to establish if there are any matches.

Results  CJD cases with donation history: 18/31 vCJD, 3/93 sCJD, and 3/5 fCJD cases reported as blood donors were confirmed to have donated labile components transfused to 66, 20, and 11 recipients respectively. Two vCJD recipients have appeared on the NCJDSU register as confirmed and probable vCJD cases. The latter developed symptoms of vCJD 6.5 years and 7.8 years respectively after receiving non‐leucodepleted red blood cells (RBCs) from two different donors who developed clinical symptoms approximately 40 and 21 months after donating. A third recipient, given RBC donated by a further vCJD case approximately 18 months before onset of clinical symptoms, had abnormal prion protein in lymphoid tissue at post‐mortem (5‐years post‐transfusion) but had no clinical symptoms of vCJD. CJD cases with history of transfusion: Hospital records for 7/11 vCJD and 7/52 sCJD cases included a history of transfusion of labile blood components donated by 125 and 24 donors respectively. Two recipients who developed vCJD were linked to donors who had already appeared on the NCJDSU register as vCJD cases (see above). No further links were established.

Conclusion  This study has identified three instances of probable transfusion transmission of vCJD infection, including two confirmed clinical cases and one pre‐ or sub‐clinical infection. This study has not provided evidence, to date, of transmission of sCJD or fCJD by blood transfusion, but data on these forms of diseases are limited.