bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Smoking behavior and attitudes toward smoking cessation among members of the Japanese Cancer Association in 2004 and 2006
Authors: Saika Kumiko , Sobue Tomotaka , Katanoda Kota , Tajima Kazuo , Nakamura Masakazu , Hamajima Nobuyuki , Oshima Akira , Kato Harubumi , Tago Chikako
Published: February 2008

We analyzed the postal surveys conducted by Japanese Cancer Association (JCA) in 2004 and 2006. This survey aimed to assess JCA members’ behavior and their attitudes toward patients who are smokers, smoking cessation, and their responsibilities. In the 2006 version, questions were added about hope for various approaches related to smoking and health and the attitudes as medical experts when treating patients. JCA members’ smoking rate was 5.9% in 2004 and 9.0% in 2006. Current smokers were significantly more likely than never or former smokers to disagree or have no opinion with most activities about smoking control such as ‘raising the price of tobacco’ and ‘labeling health warnings describing the harmful effects of tobacco in large letters with clarity for easier reading’, while most members including smokers agree to ban smoking while walking, to educate general people about tobacco and health, to provide an environment where children cannot get tobacco and the information about tobacco and health. Smoking rate among JCA members were less than that of general populations, and most of them are in favor of promoting tobacco control activities. (Cancer Sci 2008; 99: 824–827)
Effect of pronounced weight loss on visceral fat, liver steatosis and adiponectin isoforms
Authors: Engl J. , Sturm W. , Sandhofer A. , Kaser S. , Tschoner A. , Tatarczyk T. , Weiss H. , Tilg H. , Patsch J. R. , Ebenbichler C. F.
Published: February 2008

Background  Weight loss induced by bariatric surgery is an effective method to reverse obesity and comorbidities. The aim of this prospective weight loss study was to investigate changes of body fat distribution in relation to adiponectin and its isoforms and further to investigate the influence of both body fat distribution and adiponectin on the degree of liver steatosis.

Design  Fifteen severely obese female patients (body mass index 43·1 ± 4·1, mean age 34·5 ± 8·6 years) were examined before and after surgical treatment. Grading of fatty liver disease and the subcutaneous and visceral fat diameters were determined by abdominal ultrasonography. Metabolic parameters were determined using standard methods; serum total adiponectin and its isoforms were detected by enzyme immuno assay (EIA).

Results  Mean weight loss was 28·3 kg, which was mostly due to a loss in fat mass, accompanied by an increase in total adiponectin and the high molecular weight (HMW) adiponectin isoform. Visceral adipose tissue (VAT) diameter was highly correlated with liver steatosis, even more strongly than the parameters of liver function. In addition, liver steatosis correlated negatively with HMW adiponectin and binary logistic regression revealed that changes in fat mass, HMW adiponectin and alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were the best predictors for changes in the degree of hepatic steatosis.

Conclusions  Our results suggest that circulating HMW adiponectin is associated with both VAT and liver steatosis. In summary, the major findings were that the VAT diameter is highly correlated with liver steatosis, even stronger than the parameters of liver function and the association of HMW adiponectin with liver steatosis was better than with total adiponectin.
Prey location and prey choice by the freshwater leech Erpobdella octoculata using foraging kairomones
Authors: KREUTER KIRSTEN , BAIER BEATE , AßMANN CHRISTINE , STEIDLE JOHANNES L. M.
Published: February 2008

1. The freshwater leech, Erpobdella octoculata, is a generalist predator feeding on prey organisms such as Tubifex spp., Chironomus spp. and Asellus aquaticus. Using different experimental designs, we studied the use of foraging kairomones by the leeches for prey location.

2. Leeches were attracted to living as well as to freshly killed larvae of Chironomus sp., to Tubifex sp., and to A. aquaticus offered in Petri dishes covered with gauze. The leeches also reacted to an extract of macerated Tubifex sp. presented in agar.

3. Using ion exchange chromatography, the presence of histidine and glutamic acid was demonstrated in water contaminated by living larvae of Chironomus sp. and Tubifex sp. Agar blocks containing a synthetic mixture of these compounds at concentrations above 5 mg mL−1 were attractive to the leeches.

4. Choice tests showed that leeches preferred chemical signals from Tubifex sp. over larvae of Chironomus sp. No difference was found between chemicals from Tubifex sp. and A. aquaticus, and A. aquaticus and larvae of Chironomus sp.

5. The results demonstrate that E. octoculata uses specific foraging kairomones in searching for prey and indicate that amino acids serve as foraging kairomones.
Restoration of salt‐marsh vegetation in relation to site suitability, species pool and dispersal traits
Authors: Wolters Mineke , Garbutt Angus , Bekker Renée M. , Bakker Jan P. , Carey Peter D.
Published: February 2008

Restoration of salt marshes on previously reclaimed land provides an excellent opportunity to study plant colonization and subsequent development of salt‐marsh vegetation. Insight into the process of salt‐marsh development can guide the design, implementation and evaluation of salt‐marsh restoration schemes and help determine appropriate management strategies.

We evaluated the process of salt‐marsh restoration at a species‐ and plant‐community level and investigated how the sequence of species establishment is related to site suitability, availability of the target species in the local and regional species pools and dispersal traits.

It took approximately 5 years for species diversity in the restoration site to become similar to a local reference marsh. The annual species Salicornia spp. and Suaeda maritima colonized and reached maximum abundance first. Perennial species (Puccinellia maritima, Aster tripolium, Spartina anglica, Spergularia media, Atriplex portulacoides and Limonium vulgare) only started to colonize or increase notably in abundance after 3 years of restoration.

Plant composition at the highest elevation of the restoration site developed from an annual Salicornia community into a Puccinellia maritima salt marsh, which was similar to the local reference marsh. After 8 years, the lower elevations were still covered by annual Salicornia salt marsh despite the potential for the development of a Puccinellia community.

Salt tolerance appeared to be much more important in explaining the sequence of species establishment than the availability of the species in the local or regional species pools or dispersal traits.

Synthesis and applications. The prospect of salt‐marsh restoration after de‐embankment is good, with target species establishing spontaneously and vegetation succession taking place. Because most salt‐marsh species are dispersed over short distances, it is important that a well‐developed salt marsh is adjacent to the restoration site. The rate of salt‐marsh development and species diversity appears to be affected mainly by surface elevation. Proper elevation in relation to tidal inundation is therefore a prerequisite for the successful restoration of salt‐marsh vegetation after de‐embankment.
Determination of paper filler Z‐distribution by low‐vacuum SEM and EDX
Authors: ROUX S. , FEUGEAS F. , BACH M. , FAGON M. , BETTINGER C. , MOURAD S. , CORNET A.
Published: February 2008

Paper, mainly constituted of cellulose fibres, often contains mineral fillers. These fillers increase some of the properties of the paper (whiteness, printability, etc.) and are cheaper than the cellulose fibres. Nevertheless, the fillers reduce the mechanical properties of the sheet. Paper presents an anisotropy corresponding to three main directions. This anisotropy characterises the sheet mechanical properties, structure and filler distribution. Analyses of the cross section of the paper sheet with a low‐vacuum scanning electron microscope with an energy dispersive spectrometer analysis module can show this distribution. The procedure developed consists in analysing discrete profiles to build the mean profile known as filler Z‐distribution for each of the fillers. To develop this method, problems such as determination of the surface points, the number of points to analyse to define a cross section profile and the time required for the test, have been solved. Paper is sensitive to electron irradiation. In order to avoid deterioration of the material and to obtain satisfactory results, the time span for analyses is restricted to 40 s with a 12 kV electron beam accelerating voltage. Monte Carlo simulations are used to determine the diffusion cloud size and thus to determine the number of points that constitute a profile. The samples are gold sputtered and, with the aid of backscattered imaging, the coated surface allows determination of the sample surface points.
Quantitative backscattered electron imaging of bone in proximal femur fragility fracture and medical illness
Authors: SUTTON‐SMITH P. , BEARD H. , FAZZALARI N.
Published: February 2008

Bone quality consists of a number of factors including the amount of bone, bone architecture and the degree of bone mineralization. Quantitative backscattered electron imaging is a technique that allows the degree of mineralization of trabeculae to be assessed and in this study is applied to inter‐trochanteric bone biopsies of the proximal femur.

Biopsy cores from 22 controls, nine individuals with acute and chronic medical conditions and 22 fragility fracture individuals undergoing total hip replacement were processed into methyl methacrylate, polished and analysed in a Philips XL20 scanning electron microscope. A mean and distribution of weight percent calcium were determined for each individual, and for the control, medically ill and fragility fracture groups.

All individuals and groups of individuals showed normal distributions of percent calcium with both the ill and fragility fracture groups being under mineralized relative to the control group. The shape and position of the mineralization distributions suggest that the fragility group resulted from increased bone turnover with a slow progression to under mineralization. In contrast, the ill group appears to have had a more rapid change in the mineralization dynamic.

Clear distinctions between the control, fragility fracture and medically ill groups could be seen when the mineralization data were plotted as a scatter graph against age.

Graphing the data in this way showed an age‐related increase in the degree of mineralization in control individuals with the under‐mineralized, fragility fracture group scattered below this normal trend. The medically ill group was similarly less mineralized which highlighted the degree to which medical conditions and treatments can alter bone matrix mineralization.
Imaging with neutral atoms—a new matter‐wave microscope
Authors: KOCH M. , REHBEIN S. , SCHMAHL G. , REISINGER T. , BRACCO G. , ERNST W. E. , HOLST B.
Published: February 2008

Matter‐wave microscopy can be dated back to 1932 when Max Knoll and Ernst Ruska published the first image obtained with a beam of focussed electrons. In this paper a new step in the development of matter‐wave microscopy is presented. We have created an instrument where a focussed beam of neutral, ground‐state atoms (helium) is used to image a sample. We present the first 2D images obtained using this new technique. The imaged sample is a free‐standing hexagonal copper grating (with a period of about 36 μm and rod thickness of about 8 μm). The images were obtained in transmission mode by scanning the focussed beam, which had a minimum spot size of about 2.0 μm in diameter (full width at half maximum) across the sample. The smallest focus achieved was 1.9 ± 0.1 μm. The resolution for this experiment was limited by the speed ratio of the atomic beam through the chromatic aberrations of the zone plate that was used to focus. Ultimately the theoretical resolution limit is set by the wavelength of the probing particle. In praxis, the resolution is limited by the source and the focussing optics.
Wetting behaviour during evaporation and condensation of water microdroplets on superhydrophobic patterned surfaces
Authors: JUNG Y. C. , BHUSHAN B.
Published: February 2008

Superhydrophobic surfaces have considerable technological potential for various applications due to their extreme water repellent properties. The superhydrophobic surfaces may be generated by the use of hydrophobic coating, roughness and air pockets between solid and liquid. The geometric effects and dynamic effects, such as surface waves, can destroy the composite solid–air–liquid interface. The relationship between the water droplet size and geometric parameters governs the creation of composite interface and affects transition from solid–liquid interface to composite interface. Therefore, it is necessary to study the effect of droplets of various sizes. We have studied the effect of droplet size on contact angle by evaporation using droplets with radii ranging from about 300 to 700 μm. Experimental and theoretical studies of the wetting properties of silicon surfaces patterned with pillars of two different diameters and heights with varying pitch values are presented. We propose a criterion where the transition from Cassie and Baxter regime to Wenzel regime occurs when the droop of the droplet sinking between two asperities is larger than the depth of the cavity. The trends are explained based on the experimental data and the proposed transition criteria. An environmental scanning electron microscopy (ESEM) is used to form smaller droplets of about 20 μm radius and measure the contact angle on the patterned surfaces. The investigation has shown that ESEM provides a new approach to wetting studies on the microscale.
In vivo imaging of cellular structures in Caenorhabditis elegans by combined TPEF, SHG and THG microscopy
Authors: GUALDA E. J. , FILIPPIDIS G. , VOGLIS G. , MARI M. , FOTAKIS C. , TAVERNARAKIS N.
Published: February 2008

In this study, we use combined two‐photon excitation fluorescence (TPEF), second‐harmonic generation (SHG) and third‐harmonic generation (THG) measurements to image cellular structures of the nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, in vivo. To our knowledge, this is the first time that a THG modality is employed to image live C. elegans specimens. Femtosecond laser pulses (1028 nm) were utilized for excitation. Detailed and specific structural and anatomical features can be visualized, by recording THG signals. Thus, the combination of three image‐contrast modes (TPEF‐SHG‐THG) in a single instrument has the potential to provide unique and complementary information about the structure and function of tissues and individual cells of live biological specimens.
Oolong tea extract as a substitute for uranyl acetate in staining of ultrathin sections
Authors: SATO S. , ADACHI A. , SASAKI Y. , GHAZIZADEH M.
Published: February 2008

In conventional transmission electron microscopy, uranyl acetate staining is used to enhance the cellular components. However, uranyl acetate is considered a radioactive material that is very toxic  if  ingested or inhaled and subject to restrictions in many countries. In an attempt to introduce a substitute for uranyl acetate, we evaluated oolong tea extract (OTE) for staining of ultrathin sections. Tissue sections from normal rat liver representing an ideal model organ were processed according to a routine electron microscopic fixation and embedding procedure. Serial ultrathin sections were cut and processed with either routine double electron staining or 0.2% OTE staining for 30–40 min at room temperature followed by lead citrate staining (OTE staining method). Transmission electron microscopy observations revealed that all sub‐cellular structures in hepatocytes were clearly visible with OTE staining and the quality of staining was highly compatible with those of routine double staining methods. It is suggested that OTE could be used as a non‐radioactive and hazard‐free substitute for uranyl acetate in transmission electron microscopy staining.
Family and carer participation in mental health care: perspectives of consumers and carers in hospital and home care settings
Authors: LAKEMAN R.
Published: February 2008

It is widely accepted that family and carer participation in adult mental health care is desirable. However, rarely is service development informed by representative opinions of both carers and service users. This study took place in the context of a larger project to introduce and evaluate practice standards relating to family participation. The aim of this paper is to explore the perceptions of service users and carers to carer participation in adult mental health services. One hundred and twenty‐nine service users and 86 family members recruited via hospital and community settings completed a survey which addressed obstacles to family participation, perceived benefits of participation and areas for improvement. Many service users and family were entirely satisfied with existing levels of family participation. Different needs for information, support and the nature of participation in mental health care are highlighted in acute hospital and community settings. Across settings, the provision of support and accessing services were identified as the most useful aspects of family participation. Meaningful carer and family participation in mental health care should proceed from respectful connection with carers and be informed by need which will vary depending on setting and circumstances.
Economic impact of extended treatment with peginterferon α‐2a and ribavirin for slow hepatitis C virologic responders
Authors: Nakamura J. , Toyabe S.‐I. , Aoyagi Y. , Akazawa K.
Published: February 2008

Summary.  It is difficult to achieve a sustained virologic response from antiviral therapy for genotype 1 hepatitis C virus‐infected patients without a sufficient virologic response in the early weeks after treatment. However, a recent study has reported on the effectiveness of an extended course of treatment with peginterferon α‐2a plus ribavirin for slow virologic responders. The aim of this study was to evaluate the economic impact of an extended course of treatment. A Markov cohort model of hepatitis C was designed in order to demonstrate the clinical states, based on the assigned transition probabilities over 30 years. The slow virologic responders treated with an extended 72‐week course of therapy could increase by 0.55 the quality‐adjusted life years (=15.35–14.80) and reduce the lifetime cost by $2762 (=71 559–69 438) in comparison with those treated by the standard 48‐week course. One‐way sensitivity analyses did not change the cost‐effectiveness. Therefore, the extended 72 weeks of treatment with peginterferon α‐2a plus ribavirin for slow virologic responders could be cost‐effective in comparison with the standard 48 weeks of treatment.
Crucial role of cytosolic tryparedoxin peroxidase in Leishmania donovani survival, drug response and virulence
Authors: Iyer Jitesh P. , Kaprakkaden Anees , Choudhary Manohar L. , Shaha Chandrima
Published: February 2008

Leishmania donovani, the causative agent of visceral leishmaniasis, uses a cascade of enzymes that include cytosolic tryparedoxin peroxidase (cTXNPx) for detoxification of peroxides, an event pivotal for survival of digenic parasites living in two disparate biological environments. In this study, we observed an increase in promastigote cTXNPx levels after exposure to H2O2 and this group did not show any cell death; however, exposure to a combination of H2O2 and nitric oxide resulted in significant reduction of cTXNPx levels accompanied by high cell death. The protective relationship between higher levels of cTXNPx and survival was further substantiated by the improved ability of L. donovani promastigotes overexpressing cTXNPx to withstand exposure to H2O2 and nitric oxide combination as compared with vector transfectants. In addition, cTXNPx transfectants demonstrated increased virulence, causing higher parasite burden in macrophages as compared with vector transfectants. Interestingly, the cTXNPx transfectants as promastigotes or amastigotes were resistant to clearance by the anti‐leishmanial drug antimony, suggesting a cTXNPx link to drug response. Mechanistically, cTXNPx overexpression was protective against changes in Ca2+ homeostasis but not against mitochondrial hyperpolarization brought about by exposure to H2O2 and nitric oxide. Therefore, this study provides a link between cTXNPx expression to survival, virulence and drug response in L. donovani.
Characterization of myenteric neuropathy in the jejunum of spontaneously diabetic BB‐rats
Authors: Zandecki M. , Vanden Berghe P. , Depoortere I. , Geboes K. , Peeters T. , Janssens J. , Tack J.
Published: February 2008

Abstract  Decreased gastric expression and function of neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) has been proposed as a potential mechanism underlying diabetic gastroparesis. As gastric nNOS expression is vagally controlled, these changes might occur secondarily to vagal neuropathy. In addition, it is unclear whether other inhibitory neurotransmitters are also involved. We used the type 1 diabetic BioBreeding (BB)‐rat model to study jejunal motor control and nNOS expression, which is independent of the vagus. Jejunal segments were used for in vitro contractility studies, and measurement of nNOS expression after 8 or 16 weeks of diabetes compared with age‐ and sex‐matched controls. Unlike electrical field stimulation and acetylcholine (ACh)‐induced contractions, non‐adrenergic non‐cholinergic (NANC) relaxations were significantly reduced in diabetic rats. In contrast to control rats, NANC relaxations in diabetic rats were Nω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME) insensitive. Jejunal nNOS expression was significantly decreased in diabetic rats. Both in diabetic and in control animals, l‐NAME resistant relaxations were sensitive to P2‐receptor antagonists. In the jejunum of spontaneously diabetic rats, decreased nitric oxide responsiveness and decreased nNOS protein expression occur while purinergic transmission is unaffected. These findings indicate that nitrergic enteric neuropathy may be a primary dysfunction in diabetes, independent from vagal dysfunction.
Quercitol and osmotic adaptation of field‐grown Eucalyptus under seasonal drought stress
Authors: ARNDT STEFAN K. , LIVESLEY STEPHEN J. , MERCHANT ANDREW , BLEBY TIMOTHY M. , GRIERSON PAULINE F.
Published: February 2008

This study investigated the role of quercitol in osmotic adjustment in field‐grown Eucalyptus astringens Maiden subject to seasonal drought stress over the course of 1 year. The trees grew in a native woodland and a farm plantation in the semi‐arid wheatbelt region of south Western Australia. Plantation trees allocated relatively more biomass to leaves than woodland trees, but they suffered greater drought stress over summer, as indicated by lower water potentials, CO2 assimilation rates and stomatal conductances. In contrast, woodland trees had relatively fewer leaves and suffered less drought stress. Plantation trees under drought stress engaged in osmotic adjustment, but woodland trees did not. Quercitol made a significant contribution to osmotic adjustment in drought‐stressed trees (25% of total solutes), and substantially more quercitol was measured in the leaves of plantation trees (5% dry matter) than in the leaves of woodland trees (2% dry matter). We found no evidence that quercitol was used as a carbon storage compound while starch reserves were depleted under drought stress. Differences in stomatal conductance, biomass allocation and quercitol production clearly indicate that E. astringens is both morphologically and physiologically ‘plastic’ in response to growth environment, and that osmotic adjustment is only one part of a complex strategy employed by this species to tolerate drought.
Klebsormidium flaccidum, a charophycean green alga, exhibits cold acclimation that is closely associated with compatible solute accumulation and ultrastructural changes
Authors: NAGAO MANABU , MATSUI KENJI , UEMURA MATSUO
Published: February 2008

To elucidate the fundamental mechanisms and subsequent evolutionary aspects of plant cold acclimation, we examined the effect of cold acclimation on freezing tolerance in Klebsormidium flaccidum, a green alga belonging to Charophyceae, a sister group of land plants. Freezing tolerance of K. flaccidum was significantly enhanced by cold treatment: survival increased from 15% at −10 °C when grown at 18 °C to 55 and 85% after exposure at 2 °C for 2 and 7 d, respectively. Accompanying the development of freezing tolerance, soluble sugars (glucose and sucrose), a putative glycoside and amino acids, including γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), accumulated to high levels in the alga, suggesting that these solutes play a crucial role in the cold acclimation of K. flaccidum. Interestingly, the application of abscisic acid (ABA) did not change the freezing tolerance of the alga. We also observed changes in cell structure, including increased numbers and sizes of starch grains in chloroplasts, chloroplast enlargement, vacuole size reduction and cytoplasmic volume increase. These results suggest that K. flaccidum responds well to cold treatment and develops freezing tolerance in a process comparable to that of land plants.
Biomarkers in exhaled breath condensate indicate presence and severity of cystic fibrosis in children
Authors: Robroeks Charlotte M. H. H. T. , Rosias Philippe P. R. , Van Vliet Dillys , Jöbsis Quirijn , Yntema Jan‐Bart L. , Brackel Hein J. L. , Damoiseaux Jan G. M. C. , Den Hartog Gertjan M. , Wodzig Will K. W. H. , Dompeling Edward
Published: February 2008

Chronic airway inflammation is present in cystic fibrosis (CF). Non‐invasive inflammometry may be useful in disease management. The aim of the present cross‐sectional study was to investigate: (i) the ability of fractional exhaled nitric oxide and inflammatory markers (IM) [exhaled breath condensate (EBC) acidity, nitrite, nitrate, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), 8‐isoprostane, Th1/Th2 cytokines] to indicate (exacerbations of) CF; and (ii) the ability of these non‐invasive IM to indicate CF disease severity. In 98 children (48 CF/50 controls), exhaled nitric oxide was measured using the NIOX, and condensate was collected using a glass condenser. In CF interferon (IFN‐γ) and nitrite concentrations were significantly higher, whereas exhaled nitric oxide levels were significantly lower compared with controls (3.3 ± 0.3 pg/ml, 2.2 ± 0.2 μm, 10.0 ± 1.2 p.p.b. vs. 2.6 ± 0.2 pg/ml, 1.4 ± 0.1 μm, 15.4 ± 1.4 p.p.b. respectively). Using multivariate logistic regression models, the presence of CF was best indicated by 8‐isoprostane, nitrite and IFN‐γ [sensitivity 78%, specificity 83%; area under receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) 0.906, p < 0.001]. An exacerbation of CF was best indicated by 8‐isoprostane and nitrite (sensitivity 40%, specificity 97%, AUC curve 0.838, p = 0.009). Most indicative biomarkers of CF severity were exhaled nitric oxide, and condensate acidity (sensitivity 96%, specificity 67%; AUC curve 0.751, p = 0.008). In this cross‐sectional study, the combination of different exhaled IM could indicate (exacerbations of) CF, and severity of the disease in children. Longitudinal data are necessary to further confirm the role of these markers for the management of CF in children.
Epidemiology of atopy patch tests with food and inhalant allergens in an unselected population of children
Authors: Ronchetti Roberto , Jesenak Milos , Trubacova Dagmar , Pohanka Vladimir , Villa Maria Pia
Published: February 2008

Atopy patch test (APT) has been used as a diagnostic tool in patients with suspected food or inhalant allergy. This study assessed the prevalence of positive APT with food or inhalant allergens in an unselected population of schoolchildren. We also evaluated the link between positive APT reactions and skin‐prick tests (SPT) for food and inhalant allergens, circulating eosinophils and histamine skin reactivity. We studied an unselected population of 380 children aged 9 or 13 yr living in Rome, Italy. APTs were carried out with food (native or standardized) and inhalant allergens. All the children also underwent skin‐prick testing with five common inhalant and four food allergens. We also measured eosinophil cell counts and histamine skin reactivity. The prevalence of positive APT reactions for foods in unselected children ranged between 4% and 11% for hen’s egg, tomato, and wheat flour and was similar for both age groups studied. The prevalence of positive APT for milk was significantly lower in children aged 13 than in children aged 9 (p = 0.013). No concordance emerged between positive APT and SPT for foods. Conversely, APT and SPT for inhalant allergens yielded statistically significant concordance (p < 0.001). APT produces positive reactions for food or inhalant allergens in a significant number of subjects in the general population of schoolchildren. Age influences the prevalence of positive APTs with cow’s milk to some extent. Inhalant allergens probably induce a positive APT reaction through an immunoglobulin E‐linked process, while food allergens probably do not.
Pulmonary complaints and lung function after pediatric kidney transplantation
Authors: Cransberg Karlien , Pijnenburg Mariëlle , Lunstroot Maaike , Lilien Marc , Cornelissen Elisabeth , Davin Jean Claude , VanHoeck Koen , Merkus Peter , Nauta Jeroen
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Recently four of 38 children with a kidney transplant were diagnosed with bronchiectasis. The aim of the current study was to identify patients with increased risk for pulmonary damage. In this cross‐sectional observational study, children with a functioning kidney graft in the Netherlands and Antwerp, Belgium, were screened with the use of a symptom checklist and spirometry. Maximum score for upper airway complaints was 21 (normal: <8), for lower airway complaints 28 (<10). Results of FVC, FEV1 and MEF25 were expressed as percentage predicted for height and sex. One hundred and thirty‐five patients completed the interview (122) and/or spirometry (103); 91 did both. Lower airways symptoms were above acceptable levels in 18 (14%) patients. Forty‐nine patients (48%) had an abnormal lung function test: in 12 concerning FVC%, in 11 FEV1%, in 24 MEF25% and in 36 FEV1/FVC. Of correlations between symptomatology or spirometry data, and clinical parameters, only that between GFR and MEF25% was statistically significant. Children with a kidney transplant are at increased risk for obstructive lung disease. We recommend to monitor lung function during the follow‐up after renal transplantation.
The use of Doppler tissue imaging to predict cellular and antibody‐mediated rejection in pediatric heart transplant recipients
Authors: Behera Sarina K. , Trang Janet , Feeley Brian T. , Levi Daniel S. , Alejos Juan C. , Drant Stacey
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  DTI indices have been associated with cellular rejection in adult heart transplant recipients, but their predictive value in pediatric recipients is unknown. The purpose of this study was to evaluate DTI measures in the detection of cellular and AMR in pediatric heart transplant recipients. One hundred and forty‐eight pediatric heart transplant recipients who had 267 cardiac catheterization procedures with EMB, echocardiogram with DTI, and BNP level performed on the same day were included in the study. For the mitral and tricuspid valves, the ratios (E/E’) between the early diastolic inflow velocity by pulsed Doppler (E, m/s) and the early diastolic annular velocity by DTI (E’, m/s) were obtained and compared between subjects with and without rejection. Of the 148 recipients, 30 subjects had a total of 37 episodes of rejection: 10 cellular (≥1B), 17 AMR, and 10 biopsy‐negative clinical rejection. Mitral and tricuspid valve E/E’ ratios were significantly higher in rejectors than in non‐rejectors (5.5 ± 1.3 vs. 4.4 ± 1.4, p < 0.001 and 4.9 ± 2.1 vs. 4.1 ± 1.5, p < 0.01, respectively). By multivariate linear regression, mitral valve E/E’ was an independent predictor of rejection. Mitral and tricuspid valve E/E’ <5.0 had 93% and 89% NPV, respectively, for rejection. Mitral and tricuspid valve E/E’ ratios <5.0 may be useful non‐invasive screening measures to exclude rejection in pediatric heart transplant recipients.
The long‐term outcomes of pediatric kidney transplantation: A single‐centre experience in China
Authors: Wu Zhi‐Xian , Yang Shun‐Liang , Wu Wei‐Zhen , Cai Jin‐Quan , Wang Qing‐Hua , Wang Dong , Gao Xia , Liao Lian‐Ming , Tan Jian‐Ming
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  To explore the long‐term outcomes of paediatric kidney transplantation and the effects of renal allograft on growth, education, employment, marriage and procreation. Twenty‐seven children with ESRD received the renal allograft from 1985 to 2001. The patient and kidney survival rate, renal function, growth and employment, etc., were reviewed retrospectively. The average follow‐up period was 10.3 ± 4.4 yr. The one‐, three‐, five‐ and 10‐yr graft survival rates were 96.3%, 88.9%, 81.5% and 66.7%, respectively, and the corresponding patient survival rates were 100%, 92.6%, 85.2% and 68.8%. The body weight gain was 4–10 kg in one‐yr post‐operative and the height increased 0–2 cm for girls and 2–5 cm for boys. A total of 44.4% of the recipients accomplished their education above junior high school. The employment rate was 46.2% in males, and 57.2% in females. Twelve patients were married. Non‐adherence occurred in 30% of the recipients. Forty percent of the surviving recipients developed complications. Seven patients died. More attention should be paid to non‐adherence of medications and more supports from the society are required to improve the life quality of paediatric recipients, especially in employment and education.
Gastroenteritis caused by Edwardsiella tarda in a pediatric renal transplant recipient
Authors: Spencer John David , Hastings M. Colleen , Rye Anna Kathryn , English B. Keith , Ault Bettina H.
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Edwardsiella tarda, a member of the family Enterobacteriaceae, is a Gram‐negative bacillus that is most often pathogenic in aquatic environments. Human infections with Edwardsiella are rare, with most occurring in immunocompromised or immunosuppressed hosts. Reported infections include meningitis, cholecystitis, endocarditis, osteomyelitis, soft tissue infections, bacteremia and septicemia, dysentery, and gastroenteritis. This report describes a case of E. tarda gastroenteritis in a renal transplant patient receiving immunosuppressive therapy. The epidemiology, diagnosis, clinical presentation, and treatment options pertaining to E. tarda infections are examined.
CAN WE LIVE WITHOUT A FUNCTIONAL RENIN‐ANGIOTENSIN SYSTEM?
Authors: Pierre Corvol , Annie Michaud , Olivier Gribouval , Jean‐Marie Gasc , Marie‐Claire Gubler
Published: February 2008

In mice, inactivation of any of the components of the renin‐angiotensin system (i.e. renin, angiotensin‐converting enzyme, angiotensinogen and AT1 receptor) is dispensable for survival at birth. Animals can survive although they are more sensitive to salt depletion than the wild type mice.

Renal tubular dysgenesis (RTD) is a human disease consisting of severe abnormalities of renal tubular development and resulting in profound anuria and perinatal death.

Familial RTD is an autosomal recessive disease due to genetic defects in any of the constituents of the renin system.

Complete gene inactivation of the renin system in RTD leads to neonatal anuria and death. Proximal tubules are almost absent; renal artery hyperplasia is found in all cases of RTD. An intense stimulation of renin gene expression is noted in the kidney of patients with mutations affecting angiotensinogen, angiotensin‐converting enzyme and AT1 receptor.

The more severe phenotype in humans than in mice devoid of a functional renin system may be attributable to the difference in nephrogenesis between mice and humans. In mice, nephrogenesis is completed 2 weeks after birth, whereas in humans it is completed before birth, at 38 weeks of gestation.
REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES AND GLUCOCORTICOID‐INDUCED HYPERTENSION
Authors: Ong Sharon LH , Zhang Yi , Whitworth Judith A
Published: February 2008

There is increasing evidence for a role of oxidative stress and nitric oxide deficiency in experimental glucocorticoid‐induced hypertension, as evidenced by increased biomarkers of oxidative stress; the effectiveness of antioxidants or reduced NADPH oxidase antagonists in lowering blood pressure; and secondary upregulation of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in response to oxidative stress.

In the vasculature, the main sources of superoxide are NADPH oxidase, xanthine oxidase, uncoupled endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) and mitochondria.

NADPH oxidase plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of glucocorticoid‐induced hypertension in the rats, but xanthine oxidase and uncoupled eNOS pathways are not important sources of reactive oxygen species in these models. The role of mitochondrial reactive oxygen species in glucocorticoid‐induced hypertension remains to be clarified.
CARDIOVASCULAR AND METABOLIC EFFECTS OF OBESITY
Authors: Morris Margaret J
Published: February 2008

Obesity is an important risk factor for hypertension and its incidence is increasing around the world.

The mechanisms underlying obesity‐related hypertension include sympathetic activation, altered vascular responses, hormonal changes, enhanced inflammatory markers and structural changes.

This review summarizes recent evidence of the underlying impact of obesity on blood pressure. A number of candidate mechanisms include increased sympathetic activity, activation of the renin‐angiotensin system, altered vasoconstrictor or dilator responses and the attendant systemic inflammatory state.

While adult lifestyle factors undoubtedly contribute to the incidence of obesity and its attendant hypertension, evidence suggests that the programming of obesity may occur following over‐nutrition during development. A growing body of evidence links maternal obesity, offspring obesity and hypertension.

Finally, epigenetic modification of genes relevant to hypertension may contribute to the development of hypertension following a suboptimal intrauterine environment. To date the cardiovascular effects of early nutritional changes have been largely investigated following maternal under‐nutrition or protein restriction; further work is necessary to determine the impact of maternal obesity.
Improving detection and quality of assessment of child abuse and partner abuse is achievable with a formal organisational change approach
Authors: Wills Russell , Ritchie Miranda , Wilson Mollie
Published: February 2008

Aim:  To improve detection and quality of assessment of child and partner abuse within a health service.

Methods:  A formal organisational change approach was used to implement the New Zealand Family Violence Intervention Guidelines in a mid‐sized regional health service. The approach includes obtaining senior management support, community collaboration, developing resources to support practice, research, evaluation and training. Formal pre–post evaluations were conducted of the training. Barriers and enablers of practice change were assessed through 85 interviews with 60 staff. More than 6000 clinical records were audited to assess rates of questioning for partner abuse. Identifications of partner abuse and referrals made were counted through the Family Violence Accessory File. Referrals to the Department of Child, Youth and Family Services (CYFS) were recorded routinely by the CYFS. Audits assessed quality of assessment of child and partner abuse, when identified.

Results:  More than 700 staff were trained in dual assessment for child and partner abuse. Evaluations demonstrate improved confidence following training, though staff still need support. Barriers and enablers to asking about partner abuse were identified. Referrals from the health service to the CYFS increased from 10 per quarter to 70 per quarter. Identification of partner abuse increased from 30 to 80 per 6‐month period. Routine questioning rates for partner abuse vary between services.

Conclusion:  Achieving and sustaining improved rates of identification and quality of assessment of child and partner abuse is possible with a formal organisational change approach.
Reversible oxacillin‐associated hepatitis in a 9‐month‐old boy
Authors: Lee Chun‐Yi , Chen Po‐Yen , Huang Fang‐Liang , Chi Ching‐Shiang
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Herein we present a case of a 9‐month‐old boy admitted to our hospital for acute femoral osteomyelitis and hip septic arthritis treatment. Acute hepatitis with concomitant skin rash developed on the sixth day of intravenous oxacillin therapy. No other known virus‐ or drug‐related skin eruption or hepatitis was suspected. The boy recovered completely after antibiotics were shifted to teicoplanin, and no sequelae were noted. To our knowledge, this boy is the youngest case of reported oxacillin‐related hepatitis in the literatures.
Varicella with stridor: Think group A streptococcal epiglottitis
Authors: Sivakumar Shanmugasundaram , Latifi Samir Q
Published: February 2008

Abstract:  Bacterial superinfection complicating varicella is not uncommon, but airway complications are rare. We report a case of varicella in a 2‐year‐old boy complicated by life‐threatening stridor secondary to group A streptococcal epiglottitis.
Seed longevity of eight species common during early postfire regeneration in south‐eastern Spain: A 3‐year burial experiment
Authors: BUHK CONSTANZE , HENSEN ISABELL
Published: February 2008

Species that frequently regenerate sexually after fire were not found in soil seed banks of previous studies in south‐eastern Spain (Province of Murcia) and this led to the idea of studying seed longevity in the species concerned. A seed burial field experiment was carried out over a period of 30 months to examine the seed longevity of eight species that mainly reproduce sexually during early postfire succession. In addition, longevity was determined for seeds stored at room temperature and the results were compared to those obtained for buried seeds. Seeds of the study species showed very different patterns of persistence. Water‐impermeable seeds of Cistus albidus, Cistus clusii, Fumana laevipes, Convolvulus lanuginosus and Calicotome intermedia survived at least 1 year of burial in high numbers. However, seeds of Calicotome intermedia did not survive a second year, and only approximately 20% of the Fumana laevipes and Convolvulus lanuginosus seeds were alive after 30 months of burial. The longevity of buried water‐permeable seeds of Asterolinum linum‐stellatum, Teucrium pseudochamaepitys and Stipa tenacissima did not exceed 2 years. When buried for 30 months in a coastal and a mountain population site, the number of viable seeds of Convolvulus lanuginosus and Stipa tenacissima did not differ significantly between the two sites. Seeds of most species showed better survival under room temperature than under burial conditions. We concluded that the seed longevity of some species in soil might have previously been overestimated.
How to implement the multidisciplinary approach in prostate cancer management: the Belgian model
Authors: Van Belle Simon
Published: February 2008

The Belgian oncology care system has been the subject of a major reorganization in recent years. The basis of this reorganization is the obligatory implementation of standardized care programmes in every hospital and the recognition of dedicated oncology specialists. Furthermore, health authorities created the multidisciplinary oncology consultation (MOC), as it was recognized that there was a need to organize and to reimburse the existing multidisciplinary approach. At MOC, a patient’s case is discussed and a strategic plan is developed for diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up. The conditions that have to be met for reimbursement of this MOC are strictly defined by law and include yearly follow‐up meetings. The success of this multidisciplinary approach is partially attributable to legal requirements and reimbursement, but also to the willingness of the medical community to accept the concept that a multidisciplinary approach is the best investment to improve patient outcomes in cancer care.
The concept of neurogenic inflammation
Authors: Geppetti Pierangelo , Nassini Romina , Materazzi Serena , Benemei Silvia
Published: February 2008

Neurogenic inflammatory responses have recently been linked to both acute and chronic pathological conditions in the urinary tract. Neurogenic inflammation encompasses a series of vascular and non‐vascular inflammatory responses, triggered by the activation of primary sensory neurons and the subsequent release of inflammatory neuropeptides, including substance P and calcitonin gene‐related peptide. The reduction of neurogenic inflammatory responses may be key in the mode of action of the adrenergic α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists used to treat lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS). Indeed, the α1‐adrenoceptor antagonist alfuzosin inhibits expression of the oncogene c‐fos– a marker of nociceptive pathway activation – evoked by cyclophosphamide in rats.

Capsaicin ameliorates urinary bladder symptoms through its stimulatory action on the transient receptor potential vanilloid 1 (TRPV1) calcium channel, resulting in desensitization of bladder sensory nerve terminals. Involvement of the TRP cation channel, subfamily A, member 1 (TRPA1) has also been reported in models of neurogenic inflammation and nociception promoted by the cyclophosphamide metabolite, acrolein. Blockade by alfuzosin demonstrates the beneficial effects of α1‐adrenoceptor antagonists on neurogenic inflammation via the transient receptor potential family of ionic channels. Consequently, these drugs may have an important role in reducing LUTS.
Re‐examination of the historical equity risk premium in Australia
Authors: Brailsford Tim , Handley John C. , Maheswaran Krishnan
Published: February 2008

In light of the ongoing debate over the value of the equity risk premium, its increasing use in the regulatory setting, and the impact of dividend imputation on the premium, this paper presents a timely new look at the historical equity risk premium in Australia, and provides an improved understanding of the historical record. We document concerns about data quality that become increasingly important the further back in time one looks. In particular, there are sufficient question marks over the quality of data prior to 1958 to warrant any estimates based thereon to be treated with caution. Accordingly, we present a new set of estimates of the historical equity risk premium corresponding to periods of increasing data quality but of decreasing sample size. Relative to bonds (bills), the equity premium has averaged 6.3 per cent (6.8 per cent) per annum over 1958–2005, which is a period of relatively good data quality. Together with other results in the paper, the findings reveal a historical estimate that is substantially less than widely cited historical studies would otherwise indicate. We reconcile prior evidence through documenting a dividend adjustment that has typically been overlooked. We also provide estimates that incorporate an adjustment for imputation credits.