bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transacylase‐Mediated and Phosphodiesterase‐Mediated Synthesis ofN‐Arachidonoylethanolamine, an Endogenous Cannabinoid‐Receptor Ligand, in Rat Brain Microsomes
Authors: Sugiura Takayuki , Kondo Sachiko , Sukagawa Akihiro , Tonegawa Takashi , Nakane Shinji , Yamashita Atsushi , Ishima Yoshio , Waku Keizo
Published: March 2010

The levels ofN‐arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide), an endogenous cannabinoid‐receptor ligand, and a relevant molecule,N‐arachidonoylphosphatidylethanolamine (N‐arachidonoylPtdEtn), in rat brain were investigated using a newly developed sensitive analytical method. We found that rat brain contains small but significant amounts of these two types ofN‐arachidonoyl lipids (4.3 pmol/g tissue and 50.2 pmol/g tissue, respectively). Then, we investigated howN‐arachidonoylethanolamine (anandamide) is produced in the brain. We found that anandamide can be formed enzymatically via two separate synthetic pathways in the brain: enzymatic condensation of free arachidonic acid and ethanolamine; and formation ofN‐arachidonoylPtdEtn from PtdEtn and arachidonic acid esterified at the 1‐position of phosphatidyl‐choline (PtdCho), and subsequent release of anandamide from N‐arachidonoylPtdEtn through the action of a phosphodiesterase. We confirmed that rat brain contains both the enzyme activities and lipid substrates involved in these reactions. Several lines of evidence strongly suggest that the second pathway, rather than the first one, meets the requirements and conditions for the synthesis of various species ofN‐acylethanolamine including anandamide in the brain.
A Thermodynamic Analysis of Conformational Change Due to the α2β2Complex Formation of Tryptophan Synthase
Authors: Hiraga Kaori , Yutani Katsuhide
Published: March 2010

A characteristic property of the tryptophan synthase α2β2complex is the mutual activation of the α and β subunit upon complex formation. It has been speculated that this mutual activation results from the conformational change due to the α/β subunit interaction. To elucidate this mechanism, we investigated the thermodynamic parameters of association for the various combinations of the α and β subunits fromEscherichia collandSalmonella typhimuriumusing isothermal titration calorimetry. The negative association enthalpy of theS. typhimurium αsubunit with the β subunit fromE. coli(orS. typhimurium) was about 20 kJ mol−1larger than that of theE. coliα subunit at 40°C. However, the favorable enthalpy of theS. typhimuriumα subunit was perfectly compensated by the unfavorable association entropy, therefore, the Gibbs energy of association was similar to that of theE. coliα subunit. Furthermore, the site‐directed mutagenesis study revealed that a single mutation (K109N; [Asn109] α subunit) of theE coliα subunit at the subunit interface fromE. colito theS. typhimuriumtype could change the characteristics of the thermodynamic parameters of association to theS. typhimuriumα subunit type. The heat‐capacity changes of the association of the α subunit with the β subunit were quite great, 6.37–8.21 kJ mol−1K−1, compared with that due to a decrease in accessible surface area in the subunit interface. The analysis of the thermodynamic parameters of association suggested that the complex formation couples with the folding (rearrangements) of the α subunit monomer or/and β subunit dimer.
Selective Induction of Mitochondrial Chaperones in Response to Loss of the Mitochondrial Genome
Authors: Martinus Ryan D. , Garth Graeme P. , Webster Tracie L. , Cartwright Peter , Naylor Dean J. , Høj Peter B. , Hoogenraad Nicholas J.
Published: March 2010

Molecular chaperones are known to play key roles in the synthesis, transport and folding of nuclear‐encoded mitochondrial proteins and of proteins encoded by mitochondrial DNA. Although the regulation of heat‐shock genes has been the subject of considerable investigation, regulation of the genes encoding mitochondrial chaperones is not well defined. We have found that stress applied specifically to the mitochondria of mammalian cells is capable of eliciting an organelle‐specific, molecular chaperone response. Using the loss of mitochondrial DNA as a means of producing a specific mitochondrial stress, we show by Western‐blot analysis that mtDNA‐less (ϱ0) rat hepatoma cells show an increase in the steady‐state levels of chaperonin 60 (cpn 60) and chaperonin 10 (cpn 10). Nuclear transcription assays show that the upregulation of these chaperones is due to transcriptional activation. There was no effect on the inducible cytosolic Hsp 70, Hsp 72, nor on mtHsp 70 in ϱ0 cells, leading us to concluded that stress applied selectively to mitochondria elicits a specific molecular chaperone response. Heat stress was able to provide an additional induction of cpn 60 and cpn 10 above that obtained for the ϱ0 state alone, indicating that these genes have separate regulatory elements for the specific mitochondrial and general stress responses. Since the mitochondrial‐specific chaperones are encoded by nuclear DNA, there must be a mechanism for molecular communication between the mitochondrion and nucleus and this system can address how stress is communicated between these organelles.
Promoting health in families of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus
Authors: De Oliveira Isa Ribeiro , Nascif‐Júnior Iucif Abrão , Rocha Semiramis Melani Melo
Published: March 2010

de Oliveira IR, Nascif‐Júnior IA, Rocha SMM. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 106–111 Promoting health in families of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus

This paper presents a study of families of children with type 1 diabetes mellitus, emphasizing the identification of social supports and networks to strengthen interventions aimed at health promotion. The approach selected was a qualitative research, using a case study design. Four families of children with diabetes type 1 were studied, totalling seven participants. Data were collected between April and June 2007, through in‐depth interviews and the construction of a genogram and an ecomap. The results presented the families' characterization and testimonies grouped in the following categories: social support, social networks and family roles. To promote care in practice, there is a need to identify the characteristics of each family and resources available that provide better living conditions. We concluded that identifying supports and social networks allows for more personalized care delivery to each family with a view to health promotion.
The status and perspective of diabetes health education in China: Inspiration from Australia
Authors: Wilson Anne , Gyi Aye Aye
Published: March 2010

Wilson A, Gyi AA. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 92–98 The status and perspective of diabetes health education in China: Inspiration from Australia

This paper discusses possible approaches to improving diabetes care and developing effective education models in China based on the experience of diabetes education in Australia. The prevalence of diabetes mellitus in China is increasing rapidly. China is currently second on the list of the top 10 countries with the highest diabetes burden. Enormous impact of diabetes on China health system is daunting and the urgent action is needed. Diabetes education is the keystone of diabetes care and structured self‐management education is considered to be the key to successful outcomes. Although many diabetes education programmes have been initiated in China, barriers have been identified for implementation of the programmes. These include: lack of public awareness of diabetes; lack of standards of practice for diabetes educators; and lack of evaluation programmes to assess their performance. We suggest four possible approaches to addressing the current problems of diabetes education in China.
Caregivers' strong commitment to their relationship with older people
Authors: Häggström Elisabeth , Mamhidir Anna‐Greta , Kihlgren Annica
Published: March 2010

Häggström E, Mamhidir, A‐G, Kihlgren A. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 99–105 Caregivers' strong commitment to their relationship with older people

The aim of the present study was to describe caregivers' good as well as bad experiences of working with older people. The study was based on five focus group interviews. One theme emerged from a latent content analysis: strong commitment to the relationship. This theme functioned as a thread of underlying meaning throughout the entire interpretative process of 48 caregivers' experiences of work. A delicate relationship existed that could be vulnerable and could reveal itself in feelings of lack of knowledge, guilt and fear. The caregivers' committed relationship to the older adults created independency in the ways in which they protected the older people's needs. Further studies are needed that focus on caregivers' transition from dependency to independency. The findings highlight the importance of clinical supervision to personal development and identity, and to promoting caregivers' self‐esteem and maintaining a committed relationship. Commitment is a deep human feeling, and it should be promoted in order to maintain and further develop quality care for older adults.
The effect of music on discomfort experienced by intensive care unit patients during turning: A randomized cross‐over study
Authors: Cooke Marie , Chaboyer Wendy , Schluter Philip , Foster Michelle , Harris Denise , Teakle Roz
Published: March 2010

Cooke M, Chaboyer W, Schluter P, Foster M, Harris D, Teakle R. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 125–131 The effect of music on discomfort experienced by intensive care unit patients during turning: A randomized cross‐over study

Research consistently demonstrates that intensive care unit (ICU) patients experience pain, discomfort and anxiety despite analgesic and sedative use. The most painful procedure reported by critically ill patients is being turned. Music diminishes anxiety and discomfort in some populations; however, its effect on critically ill patients remains unknown. This research aimed to identify the effect of music on discomfort experienced by ICU patients during turning using a single blind randomized cross‐over design. Seventeen post‐operative ICU patients were recruited and treatment order randomized. Discomfort and anxiety were measured 15 min before and immediately after two turning procedures. Findings indicated that listening to music 15 min before and during turning did not significantly reduce discomfort or anxiety. Pain management might effectively be addressing discomfort and anxiety experienced during turning. Given previous studies have identified turning as painful, current results are promising and it might be useful to determine if this is widespread.
Prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in a university hospital centre: A correlational study examining nurses' knowledge and best practice
Authors: Claudia Gallant , Diane Morin , Daphney St‐Germain , Danièle Dallaire
Published: March 2010

Claudia G, Diane M, Daphney SG, Danièle D. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2010; 16: 183–187 Prevention and treatment of pressure ulcers in a university hospital centre: A correlational study examining nurses' knowledge and best practice

This descriptive correlational study had the goal of exploring if relationships existed between the level of knowledge of nurses concerning pressure ulcers, certain nurses' characteristics and the preventive care they applied. A multi‐method approach was taken using a questionnaire to measure the level of knowledge of nurses (n = 256) and chart audits (n = 235) to identify the preventive care applied. The results show that the level of knowledge of the nurses is insufficient. They also show a correlation between a higher level of knowledge and (i) the sector of activities in which the nurses are working, (ii) the training periods provided by the university hospital centre, and a (iii) good perception by the nurses of their level of knowledge. However, training on its own cannot guarantee the provision of quality health care, as there is a wide discrepancy between what nurses know and what they put into practice.
The clinicopathological features of biliary intraductal papillary neoplasms according to the location of tumors
Authors: Choi Sung Chul , Lee Jong Kyun , Jung Jae Hong , Lee Jae Seung , Lee Kwang Hyuck , Lee Kyu Taek , Rhee Jong Chul , Jang Kee‐Taek , Choi Seong Ho , Heo Jin Seok , Choi Dong Wook , Lim Jae Hoon
Published: March 2010

Background and Aim:  In this study, we analyzed the clinical and pathological features of biliary intraductal papillary neoplasms (IPN‐B) according to the location of the tumors.

Methods:  A total of 55 patients with IPN‐B were analyzed. We divided them into three groups: common bile duct (CBD), hilar, and intrahepatic duct (IHD) groups. The clinical and laboratory findings, cell types, depth of invasion, malignancy, existence of stones, lymph node metastasis, recurrence, and survival rate were analyzed.

Results:  There was no difference in the depth of invasion, lymph node metastasis, and coexistence of stones between the three groups. There were four different cell types; the intestinal cell type was the most common type in each group. The gastric cell type was prevalent in the IHD and hilar groups (58.3% and 33.3%, respectively). Invasive colloid carcinoma mainly showed the intestinal cell type, and tubular carcinoma showed the pancreaticobiliary cell type. There was a trend that malignancy was more prevalent in the CBD group (94.1%) than in the hilar group (64.3%) and IHD group (79.2%), but there was no statistically significant difference. There was no difference in the recurrence rate and the 3‐year survival rate between the three groups.

Conclusion:  IPN‐B showed no difference in the malignancy and survival rates according to the location of the tumors. Because IPN‐B show good prognosis after surgery, aggressive surgical resection for the treatment of IPN‐B is recommended.
Induction of deflagellation by various local anesthetics inChlamydomonas reinhardtiiDangeard (Chlamydomonadales, Chlorophyceae)
Authors: Nishikawa Atsushi , Sakamoto Yoshihiko , Sakatoku Akihiro , Noguchi Munenori , Tanaka Daisuke , Nakamura Shogo
Published: March 2010

Dibucaine, a local anesthetic, is known to induce flagellar excision inChlamydomonas reinhardtii. Herein, we investigate whether other local anesthetics have similar effects. Tetracaine, bupivacaine, procaine, and lidocaine also caused flagellar excision, although their potencies were lower than that of dibucaine. Bupivacaine, procaine, and lidocaine induced a morphological change in flagella from a rod‐like shape to a disk‐like shape before flagellar excision. Except for lidocaine, these local anesthetics caused cell‐wall shedding in addition to flagellar excision. The anesthetics in order of their median effective concentration (1‐h EC50) for flagellar excision are as follows: dibucaine (1.37 × 10−5 M) < tetracaine (3.16 × 10−5 M) < bupivacaine (4.25 × 10−4 M) <  procaine (2.02 × 10−3 M) < lidocaine (3.61 × 10−3 M). In all cases, Ca2+depletion from the solution inhibited flagellar excision. However, Ca2+‐channel blockers, IP3 receptor antagonists, and inhibitors of phospholipase C did not prevent excision. We suggest that the local anesthetics induce flagellar excision by increasing the fluidity of the flagellar/cell membrane, thereby allowing extracellular Ca2+to flow into the cell and cause flagellar excision.
Research note: Field evaluation of epiphyte recruitment (Vertebrata lanosa, Rhodophyta) in different microsite types on host fronds (Ascophyllum nodosum, Phaeophyceae)
Authors: Scrosati Ricardo A. , Longtin Caroline M.
Published: March 2010

The seaweed Ascophyllum nodosum (Phaeophyceae, Fucales) often forms extensive beds in wave‐sheltered, rocky intertidal habitats on northern Atlantic shores. Since this alga is an ecosystem engineer that influences benthic biodiversity, it is important to understand the factors that regulate its performance. Epiphytism is known to affect the performance of macroalgal hosts. In this study, we investigated the effects of surface irregularities on A. nodosum fronds (wounds, branch axils, and lateral pits resulting from receptacle shedding) on the recruitment rate of its obligate epiphyte Vertebrata lanosa (=Polysiphonia lanosa, Rhodophyta, Ceramiales). For this purpose, we performed a field experiment in Nova Scotia, Canada. In June–July 2007, we created wounds on the surface of host fronds that mimicked the wounds that result from invertebrate grazing. At that time, we also mapped the position of epiphyte‐free lateral pits and branch axils on host fronds. In October 2007, after the reproductive season for V. lanosa, the percentage of microsites colonized by this epiphyte was statistically similar for wounds and lateral pits, but significantly lower for branch axils, although by a small difference (mean recruitment rates ranged between 37 and 50%). Since V. lanosa is known not to colonize smooth frond surfaces, our study suggests that the degree of epiphyte load on A. nodosum beds should largely be affected by the overall amount of surface irregularities, with little influence of the relative availability of each microsite type.
Purification and characterization of a D‐mannose specific lectin from the green marine alga, Bryopsis plumosa
Authors: Han Jong Won , Jung Min Gui , Kim Min Jung , Yoon Kang Sup , Lee Key Pyoung , Kim Gwang Hoon
Published: March 2010

A d‐mannose specific lectin was purified from the green marine alga, Bryopsis plumosa (Huds.) Ag. The lectin agglutinated horse and sheep erythrocytes. Matrix assisted laser desorption/ionization time of flight mass spectrometry, size exclusion chromatography, sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and two dimensional gel electrophoresis (2DE) results showed that the lectin was a monomer with molecular weight of 17 kDa and pI 7.3. The agglutinating activity was inhibited by d‐mannose (1 mM), α‐methyl‐D‐mannose (4 mM) and l‐fucose (8 mM). d‐glucose (125 mM) showed weak inhibition. The lectin did not need divalent cations for agglutinating activity. N‐terminal amino acid sequence of the lectin was analyzed. As the lectin was novel, we named it BPL‐2 (Bryopsis plumosa lectin 2). Full cDNA sequence of BPL‐2 was obtained using cDNA library. It was comprised of 624 bp of open reading frame and 167 bp/57 bp of 3′/5′ untranslated regions as well as N‐terminal signal peptide. No antimicrobial activity of BPL‐2 was observed in four bacteria strains tested.
Pseudomonas fluorescens orchestrates a fine metabolic‐balancing act to counter aluminium toxicity
Authors: Lemire Joseph , Mailloux Ryan , Auger Christopher , Whalen Daniel , Appanna Vasu D.
Published: March 2010

Aluminium (Al), an environmental toxin, is known to disrupt cellular functions by perturbing iron (Fe) homeostasis. However, Fe is essential for such metabolic processes as the tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle and oxidative phosphorylation, the two pivotal networks that mediate ATP production during aerobiosis. To counter the Fe conundrum induced by Al toxicity, Pseudomonas fluorescens utilizes isocitrate lyase and isocitrate dehydrogenase‐NADP dependent to metabolize citrate when confronted with an ineffective aconitase provoked by Al stress. By invoking fumarase C, a hydratase devoid of Fe, this microbe is able to generate essential metabolites. To compensate for the severely diminished enzymes like Complex I, Complex II and Complex IV, the upregulation of a H2O‐generating NADH oxidase enables the metabolism of citrate, the sole carbon source via a modified TCA cycle. The overexpression of succinyl‐CoA synthetase affords an effective route to ATP production by substrate‐level phosphorylation in the absence of O2. This fine metabolic balance enables P. fluorescens to survive the dearth of bioavailable Fe triggered by an Al environment, a feature that may have potential applications in bioremediation technologies.
When Deliberative Theory Meets Empirical Political Science: Theoretical and Methodological Challenges in Political Deliberation
Authors: BäUchtiger AndréA , Hangartner Dominik
Published: March 2010

Re-linking deliberative theory with empirical political science has become a major theme in the discipline. But when philosophical concepts are to be integrated into positive political science, researchers confront both theoretical and methodological challenges. Focusing on deliberative democracy, a major theoretical challenge is the practical implementation of deliberative ideals. Comparative scholars have explored institutional contexts that favour deliberation, but they have largely neglected actor-centric and cultural variables that might affect deliberative quality as well. Focusing on legislatures in Switzerland and Germany, we show that political institutions as well as partisan strategies and status strongly affect deliberative action, while the effects of culture are less clear. Methodologically, one (frequently neglected) challenge concerns the appropriate statistical tools with which to study deliberation. On the one hand, analysing deliberative processes is demanding and time consuming; hence we tend to have only few and non-randomly selected cases at the group or context level. In addition, the real world of deliberation presents us with a complex matrix of cross-classified speakers. We demonstrate that Bayesian multi-level modelling provides an elegant way to tackle these methodological problems.
Public Bioethics and Deliberative Democracy
Authors: Moore Alfred
Published: March 2010

This article aims to specify the dynamics of the democratisation of expertise by analysing public bioethics as a form of deliberative democracy. Public bioethics refers to the whole range of bodies and procedures, such as national ethics councils, parliamentary ethics commissions or public consultations on ‘ethical issues’, which are meant to inform and guide political decision making with respect to ethical considerations. The article draws from empirical research on three UK public bioethics bodies (the Human Genetics Commission, Nuffield Council on Bioethics and the Human Fertilisation and Embryology Authority). The article will show how public bioethics addresses some established problems of expert domination and rejects the aim of revealing substantial ethical unity in favour of facilitating and preparing public debate by representing the range of ethical positions on a particular issue, and as such seems to resemble more closely the ‘mixed’ discursive spheres advocated by Hendriks. However, the article argues that problems of expertise are transformed but not removed. By assuming the authority to categorise different publics and arrange them in a hierarchy, and framing ethical questions such that some kinds of concerns appear legitimately ethical while others are merely political or transient matters of public concern, public bioethics may be reproducing problems of expert domination at the more rarefied level of the construction of ethical positions.
Rethinking the Modern Prince: Partisanship and the Democratic Ethos
Authors: White Jonathan , Ypi Lea
Published: March 2010

This article lays out and defends the role of political parties in cultivating a democratic ethos among citizens. It argues that citizens' commitment to the democratic idea of self-rule requires positive conviction of the worth of collective political agency, and suggests that this conviction draws on three main sources, characterised as normative, motivational and executive. The article shows theoretically why parties are able to cultivate all three sources in a way no other political actor can match, thus constituting a unique and indispensable mode of civic engagement. Moreover, it proposes that the widely noted shortcomings of parties in contemporary democracy leave this basic capacity unimpaired, indeed that certain important developments herald renewed opportunities.
The propeptide precursor proSAAS is involved in fetal neuropeptide processing and body weight regulation
Authors: Morgan Daniel J. , Wei Suwen , Gomes Ivone , Czyzyk Traci , Mzhavia Nino , Pan Hui , Devi Lakshmi A. , Fricker Lloyd D. , Pintar John E.
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1275–1284.

Mice with a targeted mutation in proSAAS have been generated to investigate whether peptides derived from this precursor could function as an inhibitor of prohormone convertase 1/3 (PC1/3) in vivo as well as to determine any alternate roles for proSAAS in nervous and endocrine tissues. Fetal mice lacking proSAAS exhibit complete, adult‐like processing of prodynorphin in the prenatal brain instead of the incomplete processing seen in the brains of wild‐type fetal mice where inhibitory proSAAS intermediates are transiently accumulated. This study provides evidence that proSAAS is directly involved in the prenatal regulation of neuropeptide processing in vivo. However, adult mice lacking proSAAS have normal levels of all peptides detected using a peptidomics approach, suggesting that PC1/3 activity is not affected by the absence of proSAAS in adult mice. ProSAAS knockout mice exhibit decreased locomotion and a male‐specific 10–15% decrease in body weight, but maintain normal fasting blood glucose levels and are able to efficiently clear glucose from the blood in response to a glucose challenge. This work suggests that proSAAS‐derived peptides can inhibit PC1/3 in embryonic brain, but in the adult brain proSAAS peptides may function as neuropeptides that regulate body weight and potentially other behaviors.
Riluzole protects against cardiac ischaemia and reperfusion damage via block of the persistent sodium current
Authors: Weiss S , Benoist D , White E , Teng W , Saint DA
Published: March 2010

Background and purpose: Current strategies to ameliorate cardiac ischaemic and reperfusion damage, including block of the sodium‐hydrogen exchanger, are therapeutically ineffective. Here we propose a different approach, block of the persistent sodium current (INaP).

Experimental approach: Left ventricular pressure was measured as an index of functional deficit in isolated, Langendorff perfused, hearts from adult rats, subjected to 30 min global ischaemia and reperfusion with vehicle only (control) or riluzole (1–10 µM) in the perfusate. Cell shortening and intracellular Ca2+ concentrations [Ca2+]iwere measured in adult rat isolated myocytes subjected to hypoxia and re‐oxygenation. The block of transient and persistent sodium currents by concentrations of riluzole between 0.01 and 100 µM were assessed in rat isolated myocytes using patch clamp techniques.

Key results: In perfused hearts, riluzole produced a concentration‐dependent cardioprotective action, with minor protection from 1 µM and produced rapid and almost complete recovery upon reperfusion from 3 and 10 µM. In isolated myocytes, riluzole at 3 and 10 µM greatly attenuated or prevented the hypoxia‐ and reperfusion‐induced rise in [Ca2+]iand the contractile deficit. In patch clamp experiments, riluzole blocked the persistent sodium current with an IC50of 2.7 µM, whereas the block of the transient sodium current was only apparent at concentrations above 30 µM.

Conclusions and implications: Riluzole preferentially blocked INaP and was protective in cardiac ischaemia and reperfusion. Thus block of the persistent sodium current would be a viable method of ameliorating cardiac ischaemic and reperfusion damage.
Animal models of cannabinoid reward
Authors: Panlilio Leigh V , Justinova Zuzana , Goldberg Steven R
Published: March 2010

The endogenous cannabinoid system is involved in numerous physiological and neuropsychological functions. Medications that target this system hold promise for the treatment of a wide variety of disorders. However, as reward is one of the most prominent of these functions, medications that activate this system must be evaluated for abuse potential. Meanwhile, cannabis is already being used chronically by millions of people, many of whom eventually seek treatment for cannabis dependence. Therefore, there is a need for procedures that can be used to: (i) better understand the mechanisms of cannabinoid reward; (ii) evaluate the abuse potential of new medications; and (iii) evaluate the effectiveness of medications developed for treating cannabis dependence. Animal models of cannabinoid reward provide a means of accomplishing these goals. In this review, we briefly describe and evaluate these models, their advantages and their shortcomings. Special emphasis is placed on intravenous cannabinoid self‐administration in squirrel monkeys, a valid, reliable and flexible model that we have developed over the past decade. Although the conditions under which cannabinoid drugs have rewarding effects may be more restricted than with other drugs of abuse such as cocaine and heroin, work with these models indicates that cannabinoid reward involves similar brain mechanisms and produces the same kinds of reward‐related behaviour. By continuing to use these animal models as tools in the development of new medications, it should be possible to take advantage of the potential benefits provided by the endocannabinoid system while minimizing its potential for harm.

This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids. To view the editorial for this themed issue visithttp://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00831.x
How important are sex differences in cannabinoid action?
Authors: Fattore Liana , Fratta Walter
Published: March 2010

In humans as in animals, males and females are dissimilar in their genetic and hormonally driven behaviour; they process information differently, perceive experience and emotions in different ways, display diverse attitudes, language and social skills, and show sex‐related differences in the brain anatomy and organization. Drug addiction is a widespread relapsing illness that affects both men and women. Sex‐dependent differences have been frequently observed in the biological and behavioural effects of substances of abuse, including cannabis. Beside sex differences observed in the cannabinoid‐induced effects related to cannabis abuse and dependence, cannabinoids have been shown to exert sex‐dependent effects also in other physiological and behavioural aspects, such as food intake and energy balance (more evident in males), or anxiety and depression (more evident in females). Research has just begun to identify factors which could provide a neurobiological basis for gender‐based differences in cannabinoid effects, among which, gonadal hormones seem to play a crucial role. Yet, cannabinoid pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic may also be important, as sex differences in cannabinoid effects might be due, at least in part, to differences in muscle mass and fat tissue distribution between males and females. Here, we will review both clinical and laboratory‐based research evidence revealing important sex‐related differences in cannabinoid effects, and put forward some suggestions for future studies to fill the gap in our knowledge of gender‐specific bias in cannabinoid pharmacology.

This article is part of a themed issue on Cannabinoids. To view the editorial for this themed issue visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2010.00831.x
Treatment of Post‐Dural Puncture Headache With Bilateral Greater Occipital Nerve Block
Authors: Akin Takmaz Suna , Ünal Kantekin Ciğdem , Kaymak Çetin , Başar Hülya
Published: March 2010

(Headache 2010;50:869‐881)

Epidural blood patch is an effective treatment with a low complication rate. It is also an invasive method that can cause permanent neurological sequelae such as early and late back pain, radiculopathy, spinal‐subdural hematoma, spinal‐epiarachnoid hematoma, intrathecal hematoma, arachnoiditis, and infection. We report a case in which a postdural puncture headache resolved within 2 minutes of a greater occipital nerve block, a minimally invasive and easy procedure with a low complication rate. This case report suggests that a greater occipital nerve block may be a successful alternative treatment for patients with post‐dural puncture headache.
Episodic Cluster Headache: NREM Prevalence of Nocturnal Attacks. Time to Look Beyond Macrostructural Analysis?
Authors: Terzaghi Michele , Ghiotto Natascia , Sances Grazia , Rustioni Valter , Nappi Giuseppe , Manni Raffaele
Published: March 2010

(Headache 2010;50:1050‐1054)

Background.— A high prevalence of nocturnal sleep‐related attacks is reported in patients with cluster headache (CH). Episodic CH is considered closely related to rapid eye movement (REM) sleep.

Objective.— The aim of this study was to analyze the relationships between episodic CH attacks and sleep macrostructure.

Methods.— Data were obtained by means of 24‐hour continuous ambulatory polysomnography (PSG) capturing CH attacks in 4 out of 7 episodic CH patients (all males; mean age 38.4 ± 9.2 years) studied.

Results.— Eight CH attacks were captured during the PSG monitoring; 5 arose from sleep: 4 from non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep (stage 2 NREM), and 1 from REM sleep. One patient experienced CH attacks during both NREM and REM sleep in the same night.

Conclusions.— In the light of previous literature findings, the prevalence of NREM‐related episodic CH attacks observed, and the finding of attacks arising during both REM and NREM sleep in the same subject, suggest that the relationship between CH and sleep stages is heterogeneous, and the existence of a specific macrostructural pattern associated with episodic CH attacks appears to be uncertain. A more comprehensive approach taking into account the microstructure of NREM and REM sleep is expected to provide more in depth information about the pathophysiology of CH, whose complexity might overcome the simplistic dichotomy of REM/NREM staging.
Successful Catheter Ablation and Documentation of the Activation and Propagation Pattern During a Left Atrial Focal Tachycardia in a Patient with Cor Triatriatum Sinister
Authors: EJIMA KOICHIRO , SHODA MORIO , MANAKA TETSUYUKI , HAGIWARA NOBUHISA
Published: March 2010

Atrial Tachycardia in Cor Triatriatum. We report a case of an atrial tachycardia (AT) originating from the left atrium (LA) associated with cor triatriatum sinister. Electroanatomical mapping of the 2 subdivided chambers of the LA during the AT revealed a centrifugal activation pattern from the posterior wall of the accessory chamber near the left superior pulmonary vein. The propagation map on the CARTO system revealed that the AT wave front spread centrifugally over the “accessory chamber,” turned around the edge of the membrane subdividing the LA, and then spread over the “main chamber.” A single radiofrequency application successfully abolished the AT. (J Cardiovasc Electrophysiol, Vol. 21, pp. 1050‐1054, September 2010)
A Score Regression Approach to Assess Calibration of Continuous Probabilistic Predictions
Authors: Held L. , Rufibach K. , Balabdaoui F.
Published: March 2010

SummaryCalibration, the statistical consistency of forecast distributions and the observations, is a central requirement for probabilistic predictions. Calibration of continuous forecasts is typically assessed using the probability integral transform histogram. In this article, we propose significance tests based on scoring rules to assess calibration of continuous predictive distributions. For an ideal normal forecast we derive the first two moments of two commonly used scoring rules: the logarithmic and the continuous ranked probability score. This naturally leads to the construction of two unconditional tests for normal predictions. More generally, we propose a novel score regression approach, where the individual scores are regressed on suitable functions of the predictive variance. This conditional approach is applicable even for certain nonnormal predictions based on the Dawid–Sebastiani score. Two case studies illustrate that the score regression approach has typically more power in detecting miscalibrated forecasts than the other approaches considered, including a recently proposed technique based on conditional exceedance probability curves.
TELOCYTES – a case of serendipity: the winding way from Interstitial Cells of Cajal (ICC), via Interstitial Cajal‐Like Cells (ICLC) to TELOCYTES
Authors: Popescu L. M. , Faussone‐Pellegrini Maria‐Simonetta
Published: March 2010

Ramon y Cajal discovered a particular cell type in the gut, which he named ‘interstitial neurons’ more that 100 years ago. In the early 1970s, electron microscopy/electron microscope (EM) studies showed that indeed a special interstitial cell type corresponding to the cells discovered by Cajal is localized in the gut muscle coat, but it became obvious that they were not neurons. Consequently, they were renamed ‘interstitial cells of Cajal’ (ICC) and considered to be pace‐makers for gut motility. For the past 10 years many groups were interested in whether or not ICC are present outside the gastrointestinal tract, and indeed, peculiar interstitial cells were found in: upper and lower urinary tracts, blood vessels, pancreas, male and female reproductive tracts, mammary gland, placenta, and, recently, in the heart as well as in the gut. Such cells, now mostly known as interstitial Cajal‐like cells (ICLC), were given different and confusing names. Moreover, ICLC are only apparently similar to canonical ICC. In fact, EM and cell cultures revealed very particular features of ICLC, which unequivocally distinguishes them from ICC and all other interstitial cells: the presence of 2–5 cell body prolongations that are very thin (less than 0.2 μm, under resolving power of light microscopy), extremely long (tens to hundreds of μm), with a moniliform aspect (many dilations along), as well as caveolae. Given the unique dimensions of these prolongations (very long and very thin) and to avoid further confusion with other interstitial cell types (e.g. fibroblast, fibrocyte, fibroblast‐like cells, mesenchymal cells), we are proposing the term TELOCYTES for them, and TELOPODES for their prolongations, by using the Greek affix ‘telos’.
Assessing the level of agreement between the self‐ and interview‐administered Child‐OIDP
Authors: Rosel Eva , Tsakos Georgios , Bernabé Eduardo , Sheiham Aubrey , Bravo Manuel
Published: March 2010

Rosel E, Tsakos G, Bernabé E, Sheiham A, Bravo M. Assessing the level of agreement between the self‐ and interview‐administered Child‐OIDP. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 340–347. © John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract – Objective: To assess the level of agreement between the self‐ and interviewer‐administered Child version of the Oral Impacts on Daily Performances (Child‐OIDP) index.

Methods: This was a randomised study in 177 children aged 10–13 years from Granada (Spain). All children completed both administration modes of the Child‐OIDP; half the sample received the interviewer‐administered version first (n = 90), and the other half the self‐administered version first (n = 87). This was done to address potential order effects due to the sequential administration of both instruments. The level of agreement between both modes of administration was assessed with the Bland and Altman method for the Child‐OIDP score and Kappa for the prevalence of oral impacts.

Results: The two groups did not differ in their socio‐demographic characteristics or self‐perceived oral health measures. No order effects were found. There was no significant difference between the two modes of administration in terms of the overall score and prevalence of oral impacts (P ≥ 0.784 in both cases). The mean difference in Child‐OIDP scores was 0.03 (95% CI = −0.29 to 0.35) and the 95% limits of agreement were −6.32 and 4.93. Kappa value for the prevalence of impacts was 0.92.

Conclusions: The self‐ and interviewer‐administered Child‐OIDP had a high level of agreement, irrespectively of whether the overall score or the prevalence of oral impacts was used to describe children’s quality of life.
Why is there heterogeneity in the effect of dental checkups? Assessing cohort effect
Authors: Celeste Roger Keller , Nadanovsky Paulo
Published: March 2010

Celeste RK, Nadanovsky P. Why is there heterogeneity in the effect of dental checkups? Assessing cohort effect. Community Dent Oral Epidemiol 2010; 38: 191–196. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Abstract –  Objectives:  To evaluate age as a potential effect modifier of the relation between frequency of dental check‐up and oral health.

Methods:  Data from a Brazilian oral health survey carried out in 2002–2003 was obtained for three age groups: 15–19‐year‐old (n = 16411); 35–44‐year‐old (n = 13 269); and 65–74‐year‐old (n = 5 300). Individuals were examined by dentists and followed to an interview. Self‐reported time since last dental visit was measured as ‘less than 1 year’; ‘from 1 to 2 years’; ‘3 or more years’ or ‘never’. Outcomes modelled with negative binomial regression were DMFT index and DT, MT and FT.

Results:  Visiting the dentist more recently was associated with fewer teeth with untreated dental caries (DT) and more teeth with fillings (FT) across all age groups. Among the 15–19‐year‐old, the longer the time since last visit the lower the DMFT and MT. On the other hand, among the 35–44 and the 65–74‐year‐old the longer the time since last dental visit the higher the DMFT and MT, though this trend reverted in the ‘never visited’ group.

Conclusions:  Age modified the effect of dental visits on DMFT and MT. In younger cohorts, the low frequency of dental check‐up among those with good oral health may reflect the fact that these young people do not feel they need to go to the dentist very often, while in older cohorts, the current low frequency of dental check‐up associated with bad oral health may be a reflection of a lifetime of high disease incidence coupled with access barriers. Questions regarding the time and frequency of dental visits may capture different dimensions of utilization of dental services, and so pooled estimates are not appropriate. Our results may help explaining contrasting results in previously published studies.
Organizational Culture, Team Climate, and Quality Management in an Important Patient Safety Issue: Nosocomial Pressure Ulcers
Authors: Bosch Marije , Halfens Ruud J.G. , Weijden Trudy van der , Wensing Michel , Akkermans Reinier , Grol Richard
Published: March 2010

Background: Increasingly, policy reform in health care is discussed in terms of changing organizational culture, creating practice teams, and organizational quality management. Yet, the evidence for these suggested determinants of high‐quality care is inconsistent.

Aims: To determine if the type of organizational culture (Competing Values Framework), team climate (Team Climate Inventory), and preventive pressure ulcer quality management at ward level were related to the prevalence of pressure ulcers. Also, we wanted to determine if the type of organizational culture, team climate, or the institutional quality management related to preventive quality management at the ward level.

Methods: In this cross‐sectional observational study multivariate (logistic) regression analyses were performed, adjusting for potential confounders and institution‐level clustering. Data from 1,274 patients and 460 health care professionals in 37 general hospital wards and 67 nursing home wards in the Netherlands were analyzed. The main outcome measures were nosocomial pressure ulcers in patients at risk for pressure ulcers (Braden score ≤ 18) and preventive quality management at ward level.

Results: No associations were found between organizational culture, team climate, or preventive quality management at the ward level and the prevalence of nosocomial pressure ulcers. Institutional quality management was positively correlated with preventive quality management at ward level (adj. β 0.32; p < 0.001).

Conclusions and Implications: Although the prevalence of nosocomial pressure ulcers varied considerably across wards, it did not relate to organizational culture, team climate, or preventive quality management at the ward level. These results would therefore not subscribe the widely suggested importance of these factors in improving health care. However, different designs and research methods (that go beyond the cross‐sectional design) may be more informative in studying relations between such complex factors and outcomes in a more meaningful way.
HEAR MY VOICE—PERSPECTIVES OF CURRENT AND FORMER FOSTER YOUTH
Authors: Liebmann Theo , Madden Emily
Published: March 2010

The youth participation movement begins with the basic premise that, without hearing and heeding the voices of those affected by the policies and practices we create, our efforts to improve the systems designed to help them are doomed to failure. This article provides accounts by court‐involved youth and emerging adults of their frustrations and successes and firsthand perspectives on the nature of the challenges confronting them. These interviews, narratives, and poems provide the fundamental context for the incisive and thought‐provoking articles that follow.
DISRUPTING THE PATHWAY FROM FOSTER CARE TO THE JUSTICE SYSTEM—A FORMER PROSECUTOR'S PERSPECTIVES ON REFORM
Authors: Krinsky Miriam Aroni
Published: March 2010

Nearly half a million children are victims of abuse and neglect and part of our foster care system. Over time, many of these youth cross into our juvenile and then adult justice systems; some will end up as federal offenders, immersed in a process where mandated penalties provide little room for flexibility or consideration of the characteristics and needs of the individual. This article will offer the perspectives of a former prosecutor and child welfare advocate on: (i) the current conditions and challenges within our foster care system—the feeder for many youth into gangs and criminal activity; (ii) the misaligned priorities and disheartening patterns we currently see in our justice system; and (iii) the ill‐advised practices, that set our nation apart from the rest of the world, allowing juvenile offenders to receive life without parole sentences. The article will then discuss a series of recommendations in all of these areas that would enable us to turn the corner and chart an improved and more hopeful path for our nation's vulnerable and at‐risk children and youth.
A SECOND CHANCE FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES: A MODEL STATUTE TO REINSTATE PARENTAL RIGHTS AFTER TERMINATION
Authors: O'Donnell Randi J.
Published: March 2010

There are more than half a million children in foster care in the United States. Some of these children are adopted into loving families, but many are considered hard to adopt and never find a permanent family. Research suggests that the outlook for the teens who exit or age out of foster care without a permanent home or a meaningful adult relationship is bleak. They are more likely to face homelessness, joblessness, drug addiction, early pregnancy, mental health problems, and prison time. With such grim statistics, states should explore every possible permanent family resource for youth in foster care. This Note proposes that, in limited circumstances, it is in the best interest of the child to vacate a final order of termination and reinstate parental rights. It calls for states to adopt a model state statute based on the five state statutes currently in place that already allow for the reinstatement of parental rights.