bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Egg size, composition and offspring quality in some Alcidae (Aves: Charadriiformes)
Authors: Birkhead T. R. , Nettleship D. N.
Published: August 2009

The composition of fresh and fully developed (pipping) eggs of four alcids, Razorbill, Common guillemot, Brünnich's guillemot and Atlantic puffin was examined. There were no differences in egg composition between the semi‐precocial Atlantic puffin and the three species with “intermediate” developmental patterns. The absolute amount of yolk increased with egg size in fresh eggs, and the relative amount remained constant with egg size for Common guillemot and Razorbill, but decreased in the Atlantic puffin. In fully developed eggs chick weight and egg weight were closely correlated, and this was due mainly to larger eggs producing chicks with larger yolk reserves. Under some conditions chicks from larger eggs do better than those from smaller eggs. Several factors influence egg size; a comparison of first and replacement eggs laid by the same females showed that a maternal effect accounted for 60–90% of the variance in egg‐size and that laying date accounted for most of the remaining variance.
Foraging behaviour in the jumping spider Phidippus audax: bases for selectivity
Authors: FREED A. N.
Published: August 2009

The hunting and feeding behaviour of the jumping spider Phidippus audax was examined in the laboratory under single and multi‐prey conditions. When given the choice, spiders consistently selected insects with high activity levels and crawling velocities. Selection was not correlated with insect length, mass, or length/width ratio. However, cine analysis of single predator‐prey encounters indicated that, at the time of detection, prey size (length and mass) was evaluated by the predator; spiders pursued large insects at significantly slower rates (i.e. more cautiously) than small insects. Prey size also significantly affected handling times. Time invested in handling preferred items was similar whether these were encountered alone or with alternate prey available. However, as predicted by the optimal foraging theory, spiders spent significantly less time feeding on lower ranked items in the presence of alternative prey.
The relationship between body condition and the timing of implantation in pregnant Grey seals (Halichoerus grypus)
Authors: Boyd I. L.
Published: August 2009

Adult female Grey seals were sampled from the Farne Islands, Northumbria at monthly intervals during 1980 and 1981. The mean date of implantation was 7 April and most females implanted between 11 March and 5 May. Sculp, core and total body weights declined most at the time of lactation in November and were lowest during February. These weights increased most rapidly during March and April; at the same time as implantation occurred. The pectoral blubber depth followed a similar pattern. Females in which the spring increase in body condition occurred earliest also had the earliest implantation. The study demonstrates a correlation between body condition and the time of implantation.
Tumor necrosis factor‐alpha inhibits Schwann cell proliferation by up‐regulating Src‐suppressed protein kinase C substrate expression
Authors: Tao Tao , Ji Yuhong , Cheng Chun , Yang Huiguang , Liu Haiou , Sun Linlin , Qin Yongwei , Yang Junling , Wang Huiming , Shen Aiguo
Published: August 2009

Src‐suppressed protein kinase C substrate (SSeCKS) is a protein kinase C substrate protein, which plays an important role in mitogenic regulatory activity. In the early stage of nerve injury, expression of SSeCKS in the PNS increases, mainly in Schwann cells (SCs). However, the exact function of SSeCKS in the regulation of SC proliferation remains unclear. In this study, we found that tumor necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) induced both SSeCKS α isoform expression and SC growth arrest in a dose‐dependent manner. By knocking down SSeCKS α isoform expression, TNF‐α‐induced growth arrest in SCs was partially rescued. Concurrently, the expression of cyclin D1 was reduced and the activity of extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 was decreased. A luciferase activity assay showed that cyclin D1 expression was regulated by SSeCKS at the transcription level. In addition, the cell fragments assay and immunofluorescence revealed that TNF‐α prevented the translocation of cyclin D1 into the nucleus, while knocking down SSeCKS α isoform expression prompted cyclin D1 redistribution to the nucleus. In summary, our data indicate that SSeCKS may play a critical role in TNF‐α‐induced SC growth arrest through inhibition of cyclin D1 expression thus preventing its nuclear translocation.
Induction of Nrf2 and xCT are involved in the action of the neuroprotective antibiotic ceftriaxonein vitro
Authors: Lewerenz Jan , Albrecht Philipp , Tien Mai‐Ly Tran , Henke Nadine , Karumbayaram Saravanan , Kornblum Harley I. , Wiedau‐Pazos Martina , Schubert Dave , Maher Pamela , Methner Axel
Published: August 2009

In amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, down‐regulation of the astrocyte‐specific glutamate excitatory amino acid transporter 2 is hypothesized to increase extracellular glutamate, thereby leading to excitotoxic motor neuron death. The antibiotic ceftriaxone was recently reported to induce excitatory amino acid transporter 2 and to prolong the survival of mutant superoxide dismutase 1 transgenic mice. Here we show that ceftriaxone also protects fibroblasts and the hippocampal cell line HT22, which are not sensitive to excitotoxicity, against oxidative glutamate toxicity, where extracellular glutamate blocks cystine import via the glutamate/cystine‐antiporter system xc−. Lack of intracellular cystine leads to glutathione depletion and cell death because of oxidative stress. Ceftriaxone increased system xc−and glutathione levels independently of its effect on excitatory amino acid transporters by induction of the transcription factor Nrf2 (nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2), a known inducer of system xc−, and the specific xc−subunit xCT. No significant effect was apparent in fibroblasts deficient in Nrf2 or xCT. Similar ceftriaxone‐stimulated changes in Nrf2, system xc−, and glutathione were observed in rat cortical and spinal astrocytes. In addition, ceftriaxone induced xCT mRNA expression in stem cell‐derived human motor neurons. We conclude that ceftriaxone‐mediated neuroprotection might relate more strongly to activation of the antioxidant defense system including Nrf2 and system xc−than to excitatory amino acid transporter induction.
Caffeine consumption attenuates neurochemical modifications in the hippocampus of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Duarte João M. N. , Carvalho Rui A. , Cunha Rodrigo A. , Gruetter Rolf
Published: August 2009

Type 1 diabetes can affect hippocampal function triggering cognitive impairment through unknown mechanisms. Caffeine consumption prevents hippocampal degeneration and memory dysfunction upon different insults and is also known to affect peripheral glucose metabolism. Thus we now characterized glucose transport and the neurochemical profile in the hippocampus of streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats usingin vivo1H NMR spectroscopy and tested the effect of caffeine consumption thereupon. We found that hippocampal glucose content and transport were unaltered in diabetic rats, irrespective of caffeine consumption. However diabetic rats displayed alterations in their hippocampal neurochemical profile, which were normalized upon restoration of normoglycaemia, with the exception ofmyo‐inositol that remained increased (36 ± 5%,p < 0.01 compared to controls) likely reflecting osmolarity deregulation. Compared to controls, caffeine‐consuming diabetic rats displayed increased hippocampal levels ofmyo‐inositol (15 ± 5%,p < 0.05) and taurine (23 ± 4%,p < 0.01), supporting the ability of caffeine to control osmoregulation. Compared to controls, the hippocampus of diabetic rats displayed a reduced density of synaptic proteins syntaxin, synaptophysin and synaptosome‐associated protein of 25 kDa (in average 18 ± 1%,p < 0.05) as well increased glial fibrillary acidic protein (20 ± 5%,p < 0.05), suggesting synaptic degeneration and astrogliosis, which were prevented by caffeine consumption. In conclusion, neurochemical alterations in the hippocampus of diabetic rats are not related to defects of glucose transport but likely reflect osmoregulatory adaptations caused by hyperglycemia. Furthermore, caffeine consumption affected this neurochemical adaptation to high glucose levels, which may contribute to its potential neuroprotective effects, namely preventing synaptic degeneration and astrogliosis.
The role of fruit traits of bird‐dispersed plants in invasiveness and weed risk assessment
Authors: Gosper Carl R. , Vivian‐Smith Gabrielle
Published: August 2009

Aim  Birds play a major role in the dispersal of seeds of many fleshy‐fruited invasive plants. The fruits that birds choose to consume are influenced by fruit traits. However, little is known of how the traits of invasive plant fruits contribute to invasiveness or to their use by frugivores. We aim to gain a greater understanding of these relationships to improve invasive plant management.

Location  South‐east Queensland, Australia.

Methods  We measure a variety of fruit morphology, pulp nutrient and phenology traits of a suite of bird‐dispersed alien plants. Frugivore richness of these aliens was derived from the literature. Using regressions and multivariate methods, we investigate relationships between fruit traits, frugivore richness and invasiveness.

Results  Plant invasiveness was negatively correlated to fruit size, and all highly invasive species had quite similar fruit morphology [smaller fruits, seeds of intermediate size and few (< 10) seeds per fruit]. Lower pulp water was the only pulp nutrient trait associated with invasiveness. There were strong positive relationships between the diversity of bird frugivores and plant invasiveness, and in the diversity of bird frugivores in the study region and another part of the plants’ alien range.

Main conclusions  Our results suggest that weed risk assessments (WRA) and predictions of invasive success for bird‐dispersed plants can be improved. Scoring criteria for WRA regarding fruit size would need to be system‐specific, depending on the fruit‐processing capabilities of local frugivores. Frugivore richness could be quantified in the plant’s natural range, its invasive range elsewhere, or predictions made based on functionally similar fruits.
INTANGIBLE CAPITAL AND U.S. ECONOMIC GROWTH
Authors: Corrado Carol , Hulten Charles , Sichel Daniel
Published: August 2009

Published macroeconomic data traditionally exclude most intangible investment from measured GDP. This situation is beginning to change, but our estimates suggest that as much as $800 billion is still excluded from U.S. published data (as of 2003), and that this leads to the exclusion of more than $3 trillion of business intangible capital stock. To assess the importance of this omission, we add intangible capital to the standard sources‐of‐growth framework used by the BLS, and find that the inclusion of our list of intangible assets makes a significant difference in the observed patterns of U.S. economic growth. The rate of change of output per worker increases more rapidly when intangibles are counted as capital, and capital deepening becomes the unambiguously dominant source of growth in labor productivity. The role of multifactor productivity is correspondingly diminished, and labor's income share is found to have decreased significantly over the last 50 years.
Factors influencing the regional haemodynamic responses to methanandamide and anandamide in conscious rats
Authors: Gardiner SM , March JE , Kemp PA , Bennett T
Published: August 2009

Background and purpose:  In vitro evidence suggests that metabolism of anandamide by cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) may be more important when the primary metabolic pathway [i.e. fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH)] is inhibited. Thus, the first aim of the present study was to assess the effects of COX‐2 and/or FAAH inhibition, on the cardiovascular actions of anandamide. The second aim was to compare the effects of anandamide with those of the metabolically stable analogue (i.e. methanandamide) and investigate mechanisms involved in responses to the latter in conscious rats.

Experimental approach:  Rats were chronically instrumented for recording blood pressure, heart rate and renal, mesenteric and hindquarters vascular conductances in the freely moving state.

Key results:  Inhibition of FAAH with URB597 (cyclohexycarbamic acid 3′‐carbamoyl‐biphenyl‐3‐yl‐ester) augmented the haemodynamic actions of anandamide, but there was no effect of COX‐2 inhibition with parecoxib, either in the absence or the presence of URB597. Methanandamide caused CB1 receptor‐mediated renal and mesenteric vasoconstriction and evoked β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated hindquarters vasodilatation.

Conclusions and implications:  No evidence for an involvement of COX‐2 in the systemic cardiovascular actions of anandamide could be demonstrated. Vasoconstrictor actions of methanandamide were shown to involve CB1 receptors, whereas no involvement of CB1 receptors in such actions of anandamide has been shown. However, β2‐adrenoceptor‐mediated hindquarters vasodilatation, independent of CB1 receptors, observed here with methanandamide, has previously been seen with anandamide and differs from previous results with other synthetic cannabinoids for which the response was CB1 receptor‐dependent. Thus, mechanisms underlying the cardiovascular actions of endocannabinoids and synthetic analogues appear to be agonist‐specific.
The hydroxyflavone, fisetin, suppresses mast cell activation induced by interaction with activated T cell membranes
Authors: Nagai K , Takahashi Y , Mikami I , Fukusima T , Oike H , Kobori M
Published: August 2009

Background and purpose: Cell‐to‐cell interactions between mast cells and activated T cells are increasingly recognized as a possible mechanism in the aetiology of allergic or non‐allergic inflammatory disorders. To determine the anti‐allergic effect of fisetin, we examined the ability of fisetin to suppress activation of the human mast cell line, HMC‐1, induced by activated Jurkat T cell membranes.

Experimental approach: HMC‐1 cells were incubated with or without fisetin for 15 min and then co‐cultured with Jurkat T cell membranes activated by phorbol‐12‐myristate 13‐acetate for 16 h. We determined gene expression in activated HMC‐1 cells by DNA microarray and quantitative reverse transcription (RT)‐PCR analysis. We also examined activation of the transcription factor NF‐κB and MAP kinases (MAPKs) in activated HMC‐1 cells.

Key results: Fisetin suppresses cell spreading and gene expression in HMC‐1 cells stimulated by activated T cell membranes. Additionally, we show that these stimulated HMC‐1 cells expressed granzyme B. The stimulatory interaction also induced activation of NF‐κB and MAPKs; these activations were suppressed by fisetin. Fisetin also reduced the amount of cell surface antigen CD40 and intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1) on activated HMC‐1 cells.

Conclusions and implications: Fisetin suppressed activation of HMC‐1 cells by activated T cell membranes by interfering with cell‐to‐cell interaction and inhibiting the activity of NF‐κB and MAPKs and thereby suppressing gene expression. Fisetin may protect against the progression of inflammatory diseases by limiting interactions between mast cells and activated T cells.
Hydrogen bonding between the 17β‐substituent of a neurosteroid and the GABAAreceptor is not obligatory for channel potentiation
Authors: Li Ping , Bandyopadhyaya Achintya K , Covey Douglas F , Steinbach Joe Henry , Akk Gustav
Published: August 2009

Background and purpose: Potentiating neurosteroids are some of the most efficacious modulators of the mammalian GABAAreceptor. One of the crucial interactions may be between the C20 ketone group (D‐ring substituent at C17) of the neurosteroid, and the N407 and Y410 residues in the M4 domain of the receptor. In this study, we examined the contribution of hydrogen bonding between 17β‐substituents on the steroid D‐ring and the GABAAreceptor to potentiation by neurosteroids.

Experimental approach: Whole‐cell and single‐channel recordings were made from HEK 293 cells transiently expressing wild‐type and mutant α1β2γ2L GABAAreceptors.

Key results: A steroid with a 17β‐carbonitrile group (3α5α18nor17βCN) was a potent and efficacious potentiator of the GABAAreceptor. Potentiation was also shown by a cyclosteroid in which C21 and the C18 methyl group of (3α,5α)‐3‐hydroxypregnan‐20‐one are connected within a six‐membered ring containing a double bond as a hydrogen bond acceptor (3α5αCDNC12), a steroid containing a 17β‐ethyl group on the D‐ring (3α5α17βEt) and a steroid lacking a 17β‐substituent on the D‐ring (3α5α17H). Single‐channel kinetic analysis indicates that the kinetic mechanism of action is the same for the neurosteroid 3α5αP, 3α5α18nor17βCN, 3α5αCDNC12, 3α5α17βEt and 3α5α17H. Interestingly, 3α5α17βEt, at up to 3 µM, was incapable of potentiating the α1N407A/Y410F double mutant receptor.

Conclusions and implications: Hydrogen bonding between the steroid 17β‐substituent and the GABAAreceptor is not a critical requirement for channel potentiation. The α1N407/Y410 residues are important for neurosteroid potentiation for reasons other than hydrogen bonding between steroid and receptor.
Making Sense of the History of Sex and Gender in Early Modern Spain
Authors: Behrend‐Martinez Edward
Published: August 2009

Progress in describing the sexuality of Spaniards in the past has been accomplished by a handful of disparate movements and interests – women's history, studies of the Spanish Inquisition, literary criticism, ‘queer theory’, etc. Early modern Spanish history also presents historians with some persistent debates regarding sexual behavior; most notably, the relationship between religion and sexuality. Edward Behrend‐Martínez describes the different contributions, problems, and contradictory conclusions produced by scholars in this field, and proposes some paths forward in uncovering the history of early modern Spanish sexuality.
‘European Cities: Containers or Groups of Inhabitants? A Review of some Recent Developments in Early Modern Urban Studies’1
Authors: Patrouch Joseph F.
Published: August 2009

The study of European cities and their inhabitants in the early modern period (approximately from the 14th through the 18th centuries) has changed in emphasis in the last few decades. Instead of focusing on the role of urbanization in the development of modern capitalism, modernity or other major epochal shifts such as the Renaissance or Reformation, scholars from various disciplines look at cities as sites of exchange and conflict where identities are created and power is exercised in specific spatial contexts. These contexts are increasingly international and sometimes global.
Emergency Department Discharge Diagnosis and Adverse Health Outcomes in Older Adults
Authors: Hastings S. Nicole , Whitson Heather E. , Purser Jama L. , Sloane Richard J. , Johnson Kimberly S.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine the relationship between the reason for an emergency department (ED) visit and subsequent risk of adverse health outcomes in older adults discharged from the ED.

DESIGN: Secondary analysis of data from the Medicare Current Beneficiary Survey.

SETTING: ED.

PARTICIPANTS: One thousand eight hundred fifty‐one community‐dwelling Medicare fee‐for‐service enrollees aged 65 and older discharged from the ED between January 2000 and September 2002.

MEASUREMENTS: Independent variables were ED discharge diagnosis groups: injury or musculoskeletal (MSK) (e.g., fracture, open wound), chronic condition (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder, heart failure), infection, non‐MSK symptom (e.g., chest pain, abdominal pain), and unclassified. Adverse health outcomes were hospitalization or death within 30 days of the index ED visit.

RESULTS: Injury or MSK was the largest ED diagnosis group (31.4%), followed by non‐MSK symptom (22.2%), chronic condition (20.9%), and infection (7.8%); 338 (17.8%) had ED discharge diagnoses that were unclassified. In adjusted analyses, a discharge diagnosis of injury or MSK condition was associated with lower risk of subsequent adverse health outcomes (hazard ratio (HR)=0.69, 95% confidence interval (CI)=0.50–0.96) than for all other diagnosis groups. Patients seen in the ED for chronic conditions were at greater risk of adverse outcomes (HR=1.86, 95% CI=1.37–2.52) than all others. There were no significant differences in risk between patients with infections, those with non‐MSK symptoms, and the unclassified group.

CONCLUSION: Adverse health outcomes were common in older patients with an ED discharge diagnosis classified as a chronic condition. ED discharge diagnosis may improve risk assessment and inform the development of targeted interventions to reduce adverse health outcomes in older adults discharged from the ED.
Older People Contact More Obstacles When Wearing Multifocal Glasses and Performing a Secondary Visual Task
Authors: Menant Jasmine C. , St. George Rebecca J. , Sandery Blake , Fitzpatrick Richard C. , Lord Stephen R.
Published: August 2009

OBJECTIVES: To determine whether wearing multifocal glasses affects obstacle avoidance and eye and head movements during walking with and without a secondary visual task in older people.

DESIGN: Randomized order, cross‐over, controlled comparison.

SETTING: Falls laboratory, medical research institute.

PARTICIPANTS: Thirty community‐living adults aged 65 and older.

MEASUREMENTS: Obstacle contacts, secondary‐task errors, average head angle (HA) in pitch, and peak‐to‐peak pitch amplitude of the eye (PA‐E) and the head (PA‐H) were assessed during obstacle‐only and dual‐task trials that required participants to read a series of letters presented in front of them at eye level under multifocal and single‐lens glasses conditions.

RESULTS: When wearing multifocal lens glasses, participants performed the obstacle‐only trials more slowly (P=.004) and contacted more obstacles in the dual‐task trials (P=.001) than when wearing single‐lens glasses. For the dual task trials under the multifocal glasses condition, greater PA‐E was associated with more obstacle contacts (ρ=0.409, P=.02) and greater PA‐H was associated with more secondary‐task errors (ρ=0.583 P=.002). Lower HA was associated with more secondary‐task errors (ρ=0.608, P=.002) and increased PA‐H (ρ=0.426, P=.02).

CONCLUSION: The findings demonstrate that older adults contact more obstacles while walking with their attention divided when wearing multifocal glasses. This is probably because of a failure to adopt a compensatory increase in pitch head movement, resulting in blurred vision of obstacles viewed through the lower segments of multifocal glasses.
Transfusion‐related acute lung injury reports in the Netherlands: an observational study
Authors: Van Stein Daniëlle , Beckers Erik A. , Sintnicolaas Kees , Porcelijn Leendert , Danovic Fikreta , Wollersheim Jacques A. , Brand Anneke , Van Rhenen Dick J.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) is a serious, sometimes fatal complication of transfusion, attributed to white blood cell (WBC)‐reactive antibodies present in the blood product. This study investigated incidence and etiology in the Netherlands.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: From January 2005 through July 2007, all TRALI cases reported to the Sanquin Blood Banks were evaluated. Only cases meeting the Canadian Consensus Conference criteria for TRALI were included and investigated for patient, donor, and product characteristics. Patients and donors were screened for HLA Class I, HLA Class II, and granulocyte antibodies.

RESULTS: A total of 56 TRALI cases were reported of which 49 were completely evaluated. Seventy‐eight percent of the patients needed monitoring or mechanical ventilation on the intensive care unit, 10 patients died. In 61% of cases large‐volume plasma products were involved. WBC‐reactive antibodies in donors were found in 73% of cases, with proven incompatibility in 21 of 44 (48%) investigated cases. Possible TRALI cases, as defined by the Canadian Consensus Conference, had significantly lower incompatibility rates compared to TRALI cases, 18% versus 58% (p = 0.036). In the 21 alloimmune cases, a total of 31 implicated donors were found, of which 26 were female, including 12 fresh‐frozen plasma (FFP) products.

CONCLUSION: TRALI is the most serious transfusion complication in the Netherlands, causing severe morbidity and mortality. Antibodies were found in the majority of the cases, but causality with proven incompatibility could be established in 21 cases (48%). Female FFP products were involved in 57% of proven alloimmune cases and would theoretically be prevented using male FFP only.
TRANSPLANTATION AND CELLULAR ENGINEERING: Adipose tissue mesenchymal stem cell expansion in animal serum‐free medium supplemented with autologous human platelet lysate
Authors: Blande Ivan Souza , Bassaneze Vinicius , Lavini‐Ramos Carolina , Fae Kellen Cristhina , Kalil Jorge , Miyakawa Ayumi Aurea , Schettert Isolmar Tadeu , Krieger Jose Eduardo
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have been considered for human regenerative therapy applications, and safe culture and expansion protocols are needed especially in the context of interspecies contamination. Human platelet lysate (PL) has been proposed as animal serum substitute during in vitro MSC expansion. In this work, a simplified and efficient method to obtain autologous PL to replace animal serum in cell culture applications is described.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: PL obtained by freezing and centrifugation procedures was tested as medium supplement for human adipose mesenchymal stem cell (hASC) culture. Differential proliferation, immunophenotypic changes, and differentiation under PL or fetal bovine serum (FBS) were assessed.

RESULTS: In contrast to 10% FBS supplementation, cell population doubling time was significantly lower when hASCs were cultured with the same concentration of PL (PL 22.9 ± 1.5 hr vs. FBS 106.7 ± 6.5 hr, t test, p < 0.05). Furthermore, hASCs maintained with 2.5% PL supplementation also showed satisfactory results. Immunophenotypic analysis revealed no differences between hASCs cultivated with PL or FBS supplementation and both cultures retained the potential to differentiate into adipose cells. These results demonstrate that autologous PL obtained from the same donor can be used as animal serum substitute in hASC culture.

CONCLUSIONS: Taken together, evidence is provided that platelets provided by a single donor are sufficient to obtain PL for hASC propagation for clinical‐scale applications mitigating the potential untoward side effects associated with the use of animal‐derived reagents.
BLOOD COMPONENTS: Lack of antibody formation to platelet neoantigens after transfusion of riboflavin and ultraviolet light–treated platelet concentrates
Authors: Ambruso Daniel R. , Thurman Gail , Marschner Susanne , Goodrich Raymond P.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Pathogen inactivation technologies provide a potential solution to donor screening and blood testing strategies reducing the risk of transfusion‐transmitted infectious diseases. The Mirasol pathogen reduction technology (PRT) system (CaridianBCT) uses riboflavin and UV light to introduce modifications in nucleic acids, reducing the infectious pathogen load in blood components. This study evaluated serum of patients who received PRT‐treated platelet (PLT) concentrates over a time period of 28 days for the appearance of antibodies to neoantigens on PLTs.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Serum specimens were obtained at study inclusion and at the 28‐day follow‐up visit from patients randomly assigned to receive PRT‐treated PLT concentrates and at study inclusion of control subjects receiving untreated PLTs. PLT samples from untreated and PRT‐treated PLTs were collected. PLT samples for each patient were pooled for the analysis. The presence of antibodies in patient serum to neoantigens was determined with a modified Capture‐P assay. The presence of auto‐ or alloantibodies in specific patient samples was determined with PAKAUTO and PAK 12 techniques.

RESULTS: Forty‐four patients receiving PRT‐treated PLTs were evaluated; none of these patients demonstrated antibodies to neoantigens. One patient demonstrated a PLT alloantibody to human PLT antigen (HPA)‐5b and autoreactivity to glycoprotein Ia/IIa, consistent with an alloantibody at the beginning, but not at the end of the study interval. Of 22 patients evaluated in the control group, one alloantibody with HPA‐5b reactivity was detected.

CONCLUSION: Patients receiving PRT‐treated PLT concentrates did not demonstrate antibodies to neoantigens, suggesting that neoantigen formation is not a critical side effect of this pathogen reduction process.
TRANSFUSION COMPLICATIONS: Bacterial culture reduces but does not eliminate the risk of septic transfusion reactions to single‐donor platelets
Authors: Fuller Alice K. , Uglik Kristin M. , Savage William J. , Ness Paul M. , King Karen E.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: Transfusion‐associated bacterial sepsis is a significant risk of morbidity and mortality related to platelet (PLT) transfusions. Previously the rate of septic PLT transfusion reactions (SPTRs) to single‐donor PLTs (SDPs) in our hospital was determined to be 1 in 15,098 (6.6 per 100,000; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.17‐36.9 per 100,000) transfusions. The goal of this study was to determine if bacterial testing of SDPs reduced the rate of SPTRs in our hospital.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: An automated microbial detection system was implemented by our blood supplier in February 2004. A retrospective examination of the number of SPTRs that have occurred to SDPs at our hospital since that time was performed, using the same criteria used before bacterial screening. Transfusions over a 3.5‐year period were examined. Clinical and laboratory data were gathered and correlated from transfusion reaction files and three independent computer systems.

RESULTS: From March 1, 2004, through August 31, 2007, there were 49,625 transfusions of SDPs with 1096 transfusion reactions reported. Only one reaction detected the same organism in two of three sites, meeting our criteria for a SPTR. The rate of SPTRs in SDPs was identified as 1 in 49,625 (2.0 per 100,000; 95% CI, 0.05‐11.2 per 100,000). This represents a 69.7% reduction in the incidence of SPTRs (p = 0.41).

CONCLUSION: With the implementation of bacterial testing, a decrease in the rate of SPTRs to SDPs from 6.6 per 100,000 to 2.0 per 100,000 transfusions was observed. Although not significant, these findings suggest a trend.
Level of platelet‐derived cytokines in leukoreduced red blood cells is influenced by the processing method and type of leukoreduction filter
Authors: Glenister Kristen M. , Sparrow Rosemary L.
Published: August 2009

BACKGROUND: In contrast to the well‐documented effect of white blood cells on the quality of red blood cells (RBCs), the effect of platelets (PLTs) has received little consideration. In this study, the PLT content and level of PLT‐derived cytokines in RBCs prepared using different types of leukoreduction methods were investigated.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Buffy coat–poor RBCs and five types of leukofiltered (LF) RBCs, including RBCs prepared with a whole blood (WB) PLT‐saving filter, were prepared and stored according to standard blood bank conditions. PLT content was measured on Day 1, and levels of PLT‐derived cytokines were measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay at nominated timepoints during 42 days of storage.

RESULTS: The PLT content of leukoreduced RBCs varied widely depending on the processing method and/or leukoreduction filter used, with some types of RBCs containing very low PLT counts while other units contained PLT counts comparable to those of unprocessed WB. The PLT content of RBCs directly influenced the concentration and accumulation of PLT‐derived cytokines. Several PLT‐derived factors exhibited significant accumulation throughout 42 days of storage. RBCs with high PLT content exhibited concentrations of RANTES (CCL5) and soluble CD40 ligand equivalent to those previously reported to show significant biologic and clinical effects.

CONCLUSION: The PLT content and levels of PLT‐derived cytokines in leukoreduced RBCs are influenced by the processing method and types of leukoreduction filters used. It may be inappropriate to consider LF‐RBCs prepared with different types of leukoreduction filters as equivalent products based on their differing levels of PLT factors.
Dofetilide for Atrial Arrhythmias in Congenital Heart Disease: A Multicenter Study
Authors: WELLS RONALD , KHAIRY PAUL , HARRIS LOUISE , ANDERSON C. CHRISTIAN , BALAJI SESHADRI
Published: August 2009

Background: Very little is known about use of the class III antiarrhythmic dofetilide in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD).

Methods: A multicenter retrospective review of experience with dofetilide in CHD patients was undertaken.

Results: Twenty adults with CHD and refractory atrial arrhythmias were treated with dofetilide at four institutions over a 7‐year period. Three (15%) experienced adverse effects during in‐hospital initiation of dofetilide (two with torsade de pointes, one with excessive QTc prolongation) and were not continued on this therapy. The remaining 17 were discharged taking dofetilide, with either resolved or improved arrhythmia. One was lost to follow‐up. Five subsequently discontinued dofetilide due to waning effectiveness, manifest by recurrence of their arrhythmias. Eleven (55%) remained on dofetilide at most recent visit, with a median follow‐up of nearly 1 year. Seven of these 11, or 35% of the CHD patients originally started on dofetilide, experienced a complete resolution of their arrhythmia. The remaining four had breakthrough episodes of atrial arrhythmia, but remained on dofetilide. No patient experienced torsade de pointes after the in‐hospital initiation period.

Conclusions: Used appropriately, dofetilide appears to be a viable adjunct to catheter‐based ablation and alternative pharmacological approaches for the treatment of atrial arrhythmias in adult patients with congenital heart disease.
Alert Tones Are Frequently Inaudible among Patients with Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillators
Authors: SIMONS EMILY C. , FEIGENBLUM DAVID Y. , NEMIROVSKY DMITRY , SIMONS GRANT R.
Published: August 2009

Background: Current management guidelines for patients with Medtronic Sprint Fidelis ICD leads (Medtronic Inc., Minneapolis, MN, USA) include prominent use of Patient Alert™, a feature in which the ICD generator emits audible beeps at two programmable frequencies. Because hearing loss is highly prevalent beyond the sixth decade of life, the utility of this feature is unclear. Therefore, we conducted a survey of patients’ ability to hear the Medtronic Patient Alert™.

Methods: During visits to an outpatient device clinic, patients with Medtronic ICDs were evaluated for their ability to hear ICD tones.

Results: The patient group consisted of 102 patients. Patients older than 70 years comprised 68% of the sample, with 16% between 60 and 70, and 17% younger than 60 years. Of the 102 patients, 59% (56% of males and 70% of females) were able to hear at least one tone. Ability to hear ICD tones decreased with advancing age. Among patients over 60 and 70 years, 52% and 43%, respectively (P < 0.001 vs. patients below 60 and 70 years), could hear at least one tone.

Conclusions: The Patient Alert™ feature is not useful among a large proportion of ICD patients. Patients with Sprint Fidelis leads should be evaluated for their ability to hear audible ICD tones. For patients who cannot hear the Patient Alert™ feature, a wireless remote monitoring and/or daily application of a magnet by a caregiver should be considered. Device manufacturers should include nonauditory alert technologies such as wireless remote monitoring and vibratory stimulation in future devices.
A Description of a New “Amoebozoan” Isolated from the American Lobster, Homarus americanus
Authors: COLE JEFFREY , ANDERSON O. ROGER , TEKLE YONAS I. , GRANT JESSICA , KATZ LAURA A. , NERAD THOMAS
Published: August 2009

ABSTRACT. Our knowledge of the diversity of amoeboid protists is rapidly expanding as new and old habitats are more fully explored. In 2003, while investigating the cause of an amoeboid disease afflicting lobsters on the East Coast, samples were examined for the presence of amoebae from the carapace washings of the American lobster, Homarus americanus. During this survey a unique community of gymnamoebae was discovered. Among the new taxa discovered was a small Thecamoeba‐like organism with a single posteriorly directed pseudopodium. Although resembling Parvamoeba rugata, this amoeba displayed distinctive morphology from that isolate or any other amoebozoan. Phylogenetic analysis shows this amoeba is distantly related to the Thecamoebidae. In this paper we describe the unique morphology of a second species of Parvamoeba and discuss its phylogenetic position with respect to the “Amoebozoa.”
Coresidence and Geographic Dispersion of Adult Children and Their Mothers in Germany: Variation in Ethnicity, Gender, and Marital Status
Authors: Nosaka Akiko
Published: August 2009

This study examines how the residential dispersion of adult children and their mothers varies between German and Turkish families living in Germany, and how this variation relates to the gender and marital status of adult children. The study hypothesizes that compared to adult children of German nationals, those of Turkish immigrants will exhibit virilocal tendencies because they are influenced by traditional Turkish cultural institutions. The results based on data from 247 Turkish and 200 German adult children, consisting of those who were 20 years old or older at the time of data collection, support this hypothesis. In contrast to the sons and daughters of German national, those of Turkish immigrants are most likely to reside with their mothers when they are single, and married sons are significantly more likely than married daughters to remain living close to their mothers.
Muscle activation and length changes during two lunge exercises: implications for rehabilitation
Authors: Jönhagen S. , Halvorsen K. , Benoit D. L.
Published: August 2009

Eccentric exercises are commonly used as a treatment for various muscle and tendon injuries. During complex motions such as the forward lunge, however, it is not always clear which muscles may be contracting eccentrically and at what time. Because this exercise is used during rehabilitation, the purpose of this investigation was to determine what type of contractions take place during two different types of forward lunge and assess the implications for rehabilitation. Five experienced athletes performed five cycles for each of the walking and jumping forward lunges. Motion analysis was used to calculate the shortening or elongation of each muscle based on the change of position of their origin and insertion points during the lunge. Electromyography of the lateral hamstrings, rectus femoris and lateral gastrocnemius was combined with the muscle length change data to determine when isometric, concentric and eccentric activations occur during the lunge. Eccentric contractions in both the quadriceps and gastrocnemius were observed during the lunge. No hamstring eccentric contractions were found; however, the hamstrings showed isometric contractions during the first part of the stance phase.
Pilot study of female high school basketball players' anterior cruciate ligament injury knowledge, attitudes, and practices
Authors: Iversen M. D. , Friden C.
Published: August 2009

An anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury prevention program was evaluated. One hundred and thirteen female high school varsity and junior varsity basketball players and 12 coaches participated in an 8‐week educational and skills program. Demographic and injury history data were collected. At pre‐intervention and at the end of season, knowledge, attitudes, and practices about ACL risk and injury prevention were assessed via questionnaires, and frequency of two‐footed landings were videotaped during games. Univariate statistics described the sample. Paired t‐tests evaluated the program's impact. Cronbach's α, correlations, and κ statistics assessed the validity and reliability of questionnaires and video analysis. Of the 113 players, 74 completed the study. The players' mean age was 16.25 years (SD=1.07; range=14.2–18.8). Baseline knowledge score was 57.2%, practice 58.4%, and attitude 73.5%. The mean baseline knowledge score of the 12 coaches (mean age=40.8 years; SD=10.3; range=26.9–56.3) was 68.7%. Players' knowledge about ACL injury prevention improved (t=2.57; P<0.01). No changes in attitudes toward injury prevention were found (tdiff=1.88; P<0.06). Inter‐rater reliability of two‐footed landings observed was acceptable (κ=0.72). Videotape analyses revealed a 5.5% increase in landing performance (tdiff=9.6; P<0.0001). The program increased knowledge about ACL injury risk and improved player's landing skills.
Serial assessments to determine normalization of gait following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction
Authors: Minning S. J. , Myer G. D. , Mangine R. E. , Eifert‐Mangine M. , Colosimo A. J.
Published: August 2009

There is an increased emphasis to identify clinically applicable methods that quantify gait deficits following anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). The purpose of this study was to perform serial gait assessments in a clinical setting to determine whether and when clinical gait parameters normalize in patients following ACLR. The hypothesis was that a clinically available gait treadmill would quantify gait deficits measured at 4 weeks post‐reconstruction. The secondary hypothesis was that patients would demonstrate incremental improvements in these gait parameters measured at each interval up to 12 weeks post‐reconstruction, and that the objectively measured improvements would correlate to the patient's subjective rating of function. Fifteen subjects, five male and 10 female, who had initial unilateral anterior cruciate ligament injury were selected for this study on the basis of operative data. All subjects were evaluated in a physical therapy clinic within 3 days following ACLR and were enrolled in a standardized rehabilitation program. The dependent gait variables of step length, stance time and gait velocity were measured at 4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks post‐ACLR on a commercially available gait treadmill. A 2 × 4 multivariate analysis of variance (2 within factors) with measures for limb involvement (uninvolved and involved) and repeated measures for time (4, 6, 8 and 12 weeks) was used to assess the interactions and the main effects on the gait variables of stance time and step length. The results of this study supported the hypothesis that gait deficits and serial improvements can be objectively quantified in a clinical setting (P<0.001). Specifically, stance time, step length and gait velocity deficits evaluated at 4 weeks showed significant improvements at the measured intervals. Step length normalized at week 8. Stance time and gait velocity reached normal levels at the 12‐week time interval. Subjective activity of daily living scores (ADLS) also improved following the 12‐week rehabilitation, from 53±17% to a mean score of 88±11% (P<0.001). ADLS scores significantly correlated to step length (R=0.63) and stance time (R=0.53) in the involved limb. Self‐selected gait velocity also correlated to ADLS scores and significantly predicted 49% of the variance in the subjective outcome measure. A clinically available gait treadmill can be used to quantify gait deficits and improvements following ACLR. Serial assessments of walking gait may aid clinicians to identify and target deficits in their patients during rehabilitation.
The impact of fluctuations in boat velocity during the rowing cycle on race time
Authors: Hill H. , Fahrig S.
Published: August 2009

In competitive rowing, the fluctuations in boat velocity during the rowing cycle are associated with an increased water resistance of the boat as compared with a boat moving at a constant velocity. We aimed to quantify the influence of the increased water resistance on race time using a mathematical approximation, based on the increase in physiological power being proportional to the 2nd power of boat speed. Biomechanical data (oar force, rowing angle, boat velocity, and boat acceleration) were measured when eight elite coxless pair crews performed a rowing test with a stepwise increasing stroke rate (SR: 20, 24, 28, and 32 min−1) that successively increased the mean boat speed. The results revealed a +4.59 s (SR 24.2) to +5.05 s (SR 31.5) 2000‐m race‐time difference compared with a boat hypothetically moving without velocity fluctuations. Velocity fluctuations were highly correlated with SR (r=0.93) because the accelerations of the rowers' body mass and the mass of the counteracting boat increase with SR. The possibilities to reduce velocity fluctuations and therefore race time are limited. For elite rowers, race time may be slightly reduced by a moderate reduction in SR that is compensated by an increased force output for each stroke.
Tenascins and their implications in diseases and tissue mechanics
Authors: Brellier F. , Tucker R. P. , Chiquet‐Ehrismann R.
Published: August 2009

Tenascins are glycoproteins found in the extracellular matrix (ECM) of many tissues. Their role is not only to support the tissue structurally but also to regulate the fate of the different cell types populating the ECM. For instance, tenascins are required when active tissue modeling during embryogenesis or re‐modeling after injury occurs. Interestingly, the four members of the tenascin family, tenascin‐C, ‐X, ‐R and ‐W, show different and often mutually exclusive expression patterns. As a consequence, these structurally related proteins display distinct functions and are associated with distinct pathologies. The present review aims at presenting the four members of the tenascin family with respect to their structure, expression patterns and implications in diseases and tissue mechanics.
Successful treatment of pityriasis rubra pilaris (type 1) under combination of infliximab and methotrexate
Authors: Barth Dietrich , Harth Wolfgang , Treudler Regina , Simon Jan C.
Published: August 2009

Pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP) is often difficult to treat. A 65‐year‐old women presented with a two week history of widespread erythroderma and scaling with areas of sparing (nappes claires). She also had follicular hyperkeratoses and palmar fissuring. The clinical picture and histology led to the diagnosis of PRP. She failed to respond to initial therapy which included topical and systemic corticosteroids. She was then treated with intravenous methotrexate (MTX) 15–30 mg weekly. Because of the poor response we intensified her regime with infliximab (5 mg/kg). Altogether our patient received infliximab three times together with MTX, which was later given orally. We report for the first time the successful combination of infliximab and MTX for the treatment of PRP.