bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comprehensive analysis of QTL for abdominal fat and breast muscle weights on chicken chromosome 5 using a multivariate approach
Authors: Le Mignon G. , Pitel F. , Gilbert H. , Le Bihan‐Duval E. , Vignoles F. , Demeure O. , Lagarrigue S. , Simon J. , Cogburn L. A. , Aggrey S. E. , Douaire M. , Le Roy P.
Published: February 2009

Quantitative trait loci (QTL) influencing the weight of abdominal fat (AF) and of breast muscle (BM) were detected on chicken chromosome 5 (GGA5) using two successive F2 crosses between two divergently selected ‘Fat’ and ‘Lean’ INRA broiler lines. Based on these results, the aim of the present study was to identify the number, location and effects of these putative QTL by performing multitrait and multi‐QTL analyses of the whole available data set. Data concerned 1186 F2 offspring produced by 10 F1 sires and 85 F1 dams. AF and BM traits were measured on F2 animals at slaughter, at 8 (first cross) or 9 (second cross) weeks of age. The F0, F1 and F2 birds were genotyped for 11 microsatellite markers evenly spaced along GGA5. Before QTL detection, phenotypes were adjusted for the fixed effects of sex, F2 design, hatching group within the design, and for body weight as a covariable. Univariate analyses confirmed the QTL segregation for AF and BM on GGA5 in male offspring, but not in female offspring. Analyses of male offspring data using multitrait and linked‐QTL models led us to conclude the presence of two QTL on the distal part of GGA5, each controlling one trait. Linked QTL models were applied after correction of phenotypic values for the effects of these distal QTL. Several QTL for AF and BM were then discovered in the central region of GGA5, splitting one large QTL region for AF into several distinct QTL. Neither the ‘Fat’ nor the ‘Lean’ line appeared to be fixed for any QTL genotype. These results have important implications for prospective fine mapping studies and for the identification of underlying genes and causal mutations.
Enantioselective disposition of fexofenadine with the P‐glycoprotein inhibitor verapamil
Authors: Sakugawa Takashi , Miura Masatomo , Hokama Nobuo , Suzuki Toshio , Tateishi Tomonori , Uno Tsukasa
Published: February 2009

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Recently, we have shown that itraconazole co‐administration increases the plasma concentrations ofS(−)‐ andR(+)‐fexofenadine enantiomers, and it appears to affect this P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp)‐mediated transport ofS(−)‐fexofenadine to a greater extent compared with that ofR(+)‐fexofenadine.

• Although verapamil is a P‐gp inhibitor and co‐administration is known to increase the bioavailability of racemic fexofenadine, little is known about the inhibitory effect of verapamil for each fexofenadine enantiomer.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• Similar to the drug‐interaction study with itraconazole, verapamil altered the stereoselective pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine to a greater extent onS(−)‐fexofenadine than onR(+)‐fexofenadine.

• This effect by verapamil may be due to the differing affinities of P‐gp for each enantiomer.

• However, since the inhibitory effect of verapamil did not eliminate the difference in pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine enantiomers, it is likely that other mechanisms in addition to P‐gp contribute to the stereoselective pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine.

AIMSThe aim was to compare possible effects of verapamil, as a P‐glycoprotein (P‐gp) inhibitor, on the pharmacokinetics of each fexofenadine enantiomer, as a P‐gp substrate.

METHODSThirteen healthy Japanese volunteers (10 male and three female) were enrolled. In a randomized, two‐phase, crossover design, verapamil was dosed 80 mg three times daily (with total daily doses of 240 mg) for 6 days, and on day 6, a single 120‐mg dose of fexofenadine was administered along with an 80‐mg dose of verapamil. Subsequently, fexofenadine was administered alone after a 2‐week wash‐out period. The plasma concentrations of fexofenadine enantiomers were measured up to 24 h after dosing.

RESULTSDuring the control phase, the mean AUC0–∞ofS(−)‐andR(+)‐fexofenadine was 700 ng h–1 ml–1[95% confidence interval (CI) 577, 823] and 1202 ng h–1 ml–1(95% CI 1007, 1396), respectively, with a significant difference (P< 0.001). Verapamil had a greater effect on the pharmacokinetic parameters ofS(−)‐fexofenadine compared with those of theR(+)‐enantiomer, and increased AUC0–∞ofS(−)‐fexofenadine andR(+)‐fexofenadine by 3.5‐fold (95% CI of differences 1.9, 5.1;P< 0.001) and by 2.2‐fold (95% CI of differences 1.7, 3.0;P< 0.001), respectively. TheR/Sratio for the AUC0–∞was reduced from 1.76 to 1.32 (P< 0.001) by verapamil treatments.

CONCLUSIONThis study indicates that P‐gp plays a key role in the stereoselectivity of fexofenadine pharmacokinetics, since the pharmacokinetics of fexofenadine enantiomers were altered by the P‐gp inhibitor verapamil, and this effect was greater forS‐fexofenadine compared withR‐fexofenadine.
Factors influencing the long‐term outcome of primary total knee replacement in haemophiliacs: a review of 116 procedures at a single institution
Authors: Solimeno Luigi P. , Mancuso Maria E. , Pasta Gianluigi , Santagostino Elena , Perfetto Samantha , Mannucci Pier Mannuccio
Published: February 2009

Total knee replacement (TKR) is a safe treatment for alleviating pain and restoring physical function in end‐stage arthropathy of the knee. First reports of TKR in haemophiliacs date back to the mid‐1970s, however detailed information on long‐term outcome is scarce. This study evaluated factors influencing the outcome of 116 primary TKRs performed consecutively over 14 years at a single institution. Haemostatic management is discussed in patients with and without inhibitors. Orthopaedic outcome was measured by using the Hospital for Special Surgery knee‐rating scale, knee flexion contracture and range of motion. At the end of follow‐up period (median duration: 5·1 years) 96 prostheses (83%) were still in place with a 7‐year removal‐free survival of 81%, similar between human immunodeficiency virus‐positive and ‐negative patients and lower in inhibitor than non‐inhibitor patients (44% vs. 87%; P < 0·05). Sixteen prostheses (14%) were removed for infection (nine) or aseptic loosening (seven) after a median of 4·5 years. Presence of inhibitors, continuous infusion, cementless prostheses and different primary surgeons were associated with an increased risk of infection; however, after adjustment, only primary surgeon was confirmed as an independent risk factor. These results show that TKR represents a safe and effective procedure in haemophiliacs if performed by a highly experienced surgeon.
Resveratrol inhibits fatty acid and triacylglycerol synthesis in rat hepatocytes
Authors: Gnoni G. V. , Paglialonga G.
Published: February 2009

Background  The putative role of resveratrol, a polyphenol present in grapes and other plants, in modulating dislypidemia, thus preventing cardiovascular diseases, is generally based on proliferating cell lines and in vivo studies in different pathological conditions. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether resveratrol plays a role on lipid biosynthesis in rat hepatocytes.

Materials and methods  The effect of resveratrol on total rate of fatty acid, cholesterol and complex lipid synthesis, assayed by the incorporation of [1‐14C]acetate into these lipid fractions, was investigated in rat hepatocyte suspensions. Enzyme activities of acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC) and fatty acid synthase (FAS) as well as 3‐hydroxy‐3‐methyl‐glutaryl‐CoA reductase (HMG‐CoA‐R), pace‐setting steps of de novo fatty acid and cholesterol synthesis, respectively, were in situ measured in digitonin‐permeabilized hepatocytes.

Results  Resveratrol‐treated hepatocytes exhibited a short‐term (30 min) inhibition (IC50 ~25 µm) of total fatty acid synthesis from [1‐14C]acetate. Among neosynthesized fatty acids, palmitic acid formation was mainly reduced, thus suggesting that enzymatic step(s) of de novo fatty acid synthesis was affected by resveratrol. In digitonin‐permeabilized hepatocytes, only ACC activity was noticeably reduced, while no change in FAS activity was observed. A noticeable resveratrol‐induced reduction of label incorporation into triacylglycerols was also detected. Conversely, cholesterol synthesis and HMG‐CoA‐R activity were unaffected by resveratrol.

Conclusion  Results here reported show that in isolated hepatocytes from normal rats a resveratrol‐induced short‐term inhibition of fatty acid and triacylglycerol synthesis occurs. This finding may represent a potential mechanism contributing to the reported hypolipidemic effect of resveratrol.
The Indochinese–Sundaic zoogeographic transition: a description and analysis of terrestrial mammal species distributions
Authors: Woodruff David S. , Turner Leslie M.
Published: February 2009

Aim We describe the distributions of mammal species between the Indochinese and Sundaic subregions and examine the traditional view that the two faunas show a transition near the Isthmus of Kra on the Thai–Malay peninsula.

Location Species distributions are described along a 2000‐km transect from 20° N (northernmost Thailand) to 1° N (Singapore).

Methods For the 325 species of native non‐marine mammals occurring along the transect we used published records to provide a database of their distributional records by degree of latitude.

Results Along the transect we found 128 Indochinese species with southern range limits, 121 Sundaic species with northern range limits, four un‐assignable endemics and 72 widespread species. In total, 152 southern and 147 northern range limits were identified, and their distribution provides no evidence for a narrow faunal transition near the Isthmus of Kra (10°30′ N) or elsewhere. Range limits of both bats and non‐volant mammals cluster in northernmost peninsular Malaysia (5° N) and 800 km further north, where the peninsula joins the continent proper (14° N). The clusters of northern and southern range limits are not concordant but overlap by 100–200 km. Similarly, the range limits of bats and non‐volant mammals cluster at slightly different latitudes. There are 30% fewer species and range limits in the central and northern peninsula (between 6 and 13° N), and 35 more widely distributed species have range gaps in this region. In addition, we found 70 fewer species at the southern tip of the peninsula (1° N) than at 3–4° N.

Main conclusions The deficiencies of both species and species range limits in the central and northern peninsula are attributed to an area effect caused by repeated sea‐level changes. Using a new global glacioeustatic curve developed by Miller and associates we show that there were > 58 rapid sea‐level rises of > 40 m in the last 5 Myr that would have resulted in significant faunal compression and local population extirpation in the narrow central and northern parts of the peninsula. This new global sea‐level curve appears to account for the observed patterns of the latitudinal diversity of mammal species, the concentration of species range limits north and south of this area, the nature and position of the transition between biogeographical subregions, and possibly the divergence of the faunas themselves during the Neogene. The decline of species diversity at the southern end of the transect is attributed to a peninsula effect similar to that described elsewhere.
Cost estimation of a health‐check intervention for adults with intellectual disabilities in the UK
Authors: Romeo R. , Knapp M. , Morrison J. , Melville C. , Allan L. , Finlayson J. , Cooper S.‐A.
Published: February 2009

Background  High rates of health needs among adults with intellectual disabilities flag the need for information about the economic consequences of strategies to identify and address unmet needs. Health‐check interventions are one such strategy, and have been demonstrated to effect health gains over the following 12‐month period. However, little is known about their effects on service use and costs, and hence how affordable such interventions are.

Methods  We examined service use patterns and costs over a 12‐month period for 50 adult participants with intellectual disabilities who received a health‐check intervention and 50 individually matched control participants who received standard care only.

Results  The health‐check intervention was cheap, and it did not have associated higher costs in terms of service usage. Indeed, mean cost of care for the adults who received standard care only was greater than for the adults who received the health‐check intervention. The higher costs were due to differences in unpaid carer support costs.

Conclusion  This is the first study to report the associated service use, and costs of a health‐check intervention to improve the health of adults with intellectual disabilities and reduce health inequalities. Results suggest this intervention is cheap and affordable compared with standard care, supporting clinical outcome evidence for its introduction into health care policy and implementation. However, further research is needed to confirm this finding with a larger sample.
Repetition of contaminating question types when children and youths with intellectual disabilities are interviewed
Authors: Cederborg A.‐C. , Danielsson H. , La Rooy D. , Lamb M. E.
Published: February 2009

Background  The present study examined the effects of repeating questions in interviews investigating the possible sexual abuse of children and youths who had a variety of intellectual disabilities. We predicted that the repetition of option‐posing and suggestive questions would lead the suspected victims to change their responses, making it difficult to understand what actually happened. Inconsistency can be a key factor when assessing the reliability of witnesses.

Materials  Case files and transcripts of investigative interviews with 33 children and youths who had a variety of intellectual disabilities were obtained from prosecutors in Sweden. The interviews involved 25 females and 9 males whose chronological ages were between 5.4 and 23.7 years when interviewed (M = 13.2 years).

Results  Six per cent of the questions were repeated at least once. The repetition of focused questions raised doubts about the reports because the interviewees changed their answers 40% of the time.

Conclusions  Regardless of the witnesses' abilities, it is important to obtain reports that are as accurate and complete as possible in investigative interviews. Because this was a field study, we did not know which responses were accurate, but repetitions of potentially contaminating questions frequently led the interviewees to contradict their earlier answers. This means that the interviewers' behaviour diminished the usefulness of the witnesses' testimony.
Trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid colitis alters Nav 1.8 channel expression in mouse dorsal root ganglia neurons
Authors: King D. E. , Macleod R. J. , Vanner S. J.
Published: February 2009

Abstract  Visceral inflammation evokes hyperexcitability in nociceptive dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons and these changes are associated with increased voltage‐gated sodium channel (Nav) 1.8 current density, but the molecular determinants of these changes are unclear. This study used Western blotting to measure changes in Nav 1.7, 1.8 and 1.9 protein expression during trinitrobenzenesulphonic acid (TNBS) colitis and quantitative polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to examine corresponding changes in mRNA. Colonic neurons were labelled with the retrograde tracer Fast Blue injected into the wall of the distal colon and quantitative PCR performed on laser‐captured labelled colonic neurons from ganglia at T9‐13 or unlabelled DRG neurons from the upper spinal cord. Immunohistochemistry and western blots were performed on whole DRG from the same sites. Fast Blue‐labelled neurons demonstrated Nav 1.7, 1.8 and 1.9 immunoreactivity. On day 7 of colitis, which correlated with electrophysiological studies, there was a threefold increase in Nav 1.8 protein in ganglia from T9 to 13, but Nav 1.7 and 1.9 levels were unchanged. There was no corresponding change in the Nav 1.8 α‐subunit mRNA levels. However, on days 2 and 4, Nav 1.8 mRNA was decreased 10‐fold. Nav 1.8 protein and mRNA levels were unchanged in neurons isolated from ganglia in the upper spinal cord, where colonic neurons are not found. These findings suggest that the TNBS evoked increase in Nav 1.8 currents is associated with increased numbers of channels. The absence of corresponding changes in transcript suggests a translational or post‐translational mechanism, but the 10‐fold recovery of transcript preceding this time point also demonstrates a complex transcriptional regulation.
Biolaminated sedimentation in a High Arctic freshwater lake
Authors: CHUTKO KRYSTOPHER J. , LAMOUREUX SCOTT F.
Published: February 2009

A laminated sequence of lacustrine sediment from an Arctic coastal lake was examined for potential chronological and successional information. The laminae are microbially induced sedimentary structures, the unlithified precursor of stromatolites and are previously unreported in the Arctic. The inferred annual sequence was interpreted to contain a basal clastic unit, overlain with successive cyanobacterial and extracellular polymeric substance units. The complex succession of laminae and inconclusive dating provide a challenge for identifying the chronological nature of the sedimentary structures. Markov chain and time series analyses suggest that a plausible, quasi‐annual sequence can be identified to provide a context for palaeo‐environmental reconstruction. Recognition of sedimentary structure in recent biolaminated sediments offers a first step towards the palaeo‐environmental evaluation of the geomicrobiological sequence.
Rapid colorimetric field test to determine levels of deltamethrin on PermaNet® surfaces: association with mosquito bioactivity
Authors: Green Michael D. , Atieli Frances , Akogbeto Martin
Published: February 2009

Objective  To evaluate a simple and inexpensive colorimetric test to measure the amount of cyanopyrethroid insecticide residue from filter paper exposed to mosquito net surfaces.

Method  The net sampling protocol and colorimetric test (NetTest) were evaluated for deltamethrin‐impregnated PermaNet® 2.0 by comparison with high‐performance liquid chromatographic assays and mosquito mortality (WHO Cone Test).

Conclusion  The observed correlation between the amount of deltamethrin adsorbed onto the filter paper and the entire amount of deltamethrin per unit area of net material was good: 0.967, five assays. The relationship between the surface levels of deltamethrin determined by the colorimetric test and the ‘gold standard’ mosquito bioassay reveals a relatively accurate field test with a sensitivity of 91.4% and specificity if 85.4% (76 samplings from 19 nets).
Prevalence of respiratory symptoms and cases suspicious for tuberculosis among public health clinic patients in Afghanistan, 2005–2006: Perspectives on recognition and referral of tuberculosis cases
Authors: Lainez Yolanda Barberá , Todd Catherine S. , Ahmadzai Ahmadullah , Doocy Shannon C. , Burnham Gilbert
Published: February 2009

Objectives  To assess diagnosis and management of suspected pulmonary tuberculosis (TB) among patients with respiratory complaints attending Comprehensive Health Centers (CHCs) in Afghanistan.

Methods  Consecutive consenting patients presenting with respiratory complaints at 24 health centres in eight provinces were enrolled between November 2005 and February 2006. Demographics, health histories, clinic provider and study representative exam findings and diagnoses, and diagnostic test results were recorded. Correlates of TB‐suggestive symptoms (defined as cough >2 weeks and/or haemoptysis) were assessed by logistic regression.

Results  There were 1401 participants; 24.6% (n = 345) were children (age 17 or under). The TB‐suggestive symptoms of cough >2 weeks and/or haemoptysis were reported by 407 (31.3%) and 44(3.3%), respectively, with 39 participants reporting both symptoms. Of 413 participants reporting TB‐suggestive symptoms, only 178 (43%) were diagnosed as having suspected TB; 22.0% received no clinical diagnosis. Suspected TB was significantly associated with having a household member residing in a refugee camp within the last 2 years (OR = 6.0; 95% CI: 4.1–8.7), seven or more people sleeping in the same room (OR = 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4–2.6) and cooking with a wood fire in the sleeping room (OR = 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.2) in univariate analysis.

Conclusions  Diagnostic sensitivity by the health worker for possible cases of pulmonary TB was low, as 22% of persons with suspected tuberculosis received no diagnosis. Further, some common/chronic respiratory ailments were under‐diagnosed. There is great need for improved practical training and continuing education in pulmonary disease diagnosis for clinical health workers.
Biomass production and nutrient uptake ofChromolaena odorataas compared with other weeds in a burned and a mulched secondary forest clearing planted to plantain (Musaspp.)
Authors: HAUSER S , MEKOA C
Published: February 2009

HauserS & MekoaC (2009). Biomass production and nutrient uptake ofChromolaena odorataas compared with other weeds in a burned and a mulched secondary forest clearing planted to plantain (Musaspp.).Weed Research49, 193–200.

Chromolaena odorata(Siam weed; Asteraceae), is an important weed in most cropping systems of humid West and Central Africa. In plantain (Musaspp.), the most important cash food crop in Cameroon, the traditional system of slash and burn of old secondary forest with long phases of weed‐free crop growth can no longer be maintained due to invasion byC. odorata. This study evaluated the effects of burning versus mulching biomass after forest clearing onC. odoratabiomass production, nutrient uptake and its competition with all other volunteer plants. Weed biomass was sampled before each slashing over 3 years in a plantain field established in secondary forest. Total weed biomass andC. odoratabiomass were unaffected by biomass management. Biomass production increases ofC. odorataover time were larger after burning than when biomass was retained. Biomass production of trees and broad‐leaved plants (other thanC. odorata) declined over time.Chromolaena odoratacontributed up to 91% of the total volunteer biomass. Nutrient uptake byC. odoratawas promoted by burning. Biomass management after forest clearing does not offer an option to slow down invasion by, or reduce growth ofC. odorata.
Risk factors for early primary graft dysfunction after lung transplantation: a registry study
Authors: Kuntz Catherine L. , Hadjiliadis Denis , Ahya Vivek N. , Kotloff Robert M. , Pochettino Alberto , Lewis James , Christie Jason D.
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Primary graft dysfunction (PGD) is a leading cause of early morbidity and mortality in lung transplantation. We sought to identify risk factors for PGD using the United Network for Organ Sharing/International Society for Heart and Lung Transplant (UNOS/ISHLT) Registry.

Methods:  A total of 6984 lung transplants between 1994 and 2002 were available for analysis. Potential risk factors were tested for association with PGD and multivariable logistic regression was applied to adjust for confounding.

Results:  The overall incidence of PGD was 10.7% (95% CI 9.9–11.4). In multivariable analyses, factors independently associated with PGD were donor age >45 yr (p < 0.001); donor head trauma (p = 0.03); recipient body mass index >25 kg/m2 (p = 0.005); recipient female gender (p = 0.001); use of Eurocollins preservation solution (p = 0.001); single lung transplant (p = 0.005); increased ischemic time (p < 0.001); and elevated recipient pulmonary artery systolic pressure at transplant (p < 0.001). Recipient transplant diagnosis was strongly associated with PGD, with primary or secondary pulmonary hypertension (p < 0.001 for both), and idiopathic (p < 0.001) or secondary pulmonary fibrosis (p = 0.011) as significant and independent risk factors for PGD.

Conclusions:  Risk factors for PGD in the UNOS/ISHLT registry are consistent with prior smaller studies. Recipient, donor, and therapy variables are independently associated with PGD, as defined in a large registry.
Salmeterol/fluticasone propionate vs. double dose fluticasone propionate on lung function and asthma control in children
Authors: De Blic Jacques , Ogorodova Ludmila , Klink Rabih , Sidorenko Irina , Valiulis Arunas , Hofman Jerzy , Bennedbaek Olav , Anderton Sally , Attali Valerie , Desfougeres Jean‐Luc , Poterre Marc
Published: February 2009

There is a large body of data to support the use of an inhaled corticosteroid (ICS) plus a long‐acting β2‐agonist vs. increasing the dose of ICS in adults, but less data in children. This double‐blind, parallel group, non‐inferiority study compared lung function and asthma control, based on Global Initiative for Asthma guidelines, in children receiving either salmeterol/fluticasone propionate (SFC) 50/100 μg bd (n = 160) or fluticasone propionate (FP) 200 μg bd (n = 161) for 12 wks. Change from baseline in mean morning peak expiratory flow increased following both treatments, but was significantly greater in the SFC group compared with FP [Adjusted mean change (s.e.) (l/min): SFC: 26.9 (2.13), FP: 19.3 (2.12); treatment difference: 7.6 (3.01); 95% CI: 1.7, 13.5; p = 0.012)]. Asthma control improved over time in both groups. Mean pre‐bronchodilator maximal‐expiratory flow at 50% vital capacity and percentage rescue‐free days showed significantly greater improvements in the SFC group compared with FP. All other efficacy indices showed comparable improvements in each group. Treatment with SFC 50/100 μg bd compared with twice the steroid dose of FP (200 μg bd), was at least as effective in improving individual clinical outcomes and overall asthma control, in asthmatic children previously uncontrolled on low doses of ICS.
Lessons from cardiac transplantation in infancy
Authors: Platt Jeffrey L. , Cascalho Marilia , West Lori
Published: February 2009

Abstract:  Besides correcting devastating pathophysiology, cardiac transplantation in infancy offers an incomparable model for exploring the structure and function of the immune system. Infants and young children have relatively few memory B cells and T cells. Hence, the response of the young to allotransplantation better represents a primary immune response and may be better suited to testing spontaneous tolerance. Those who undergo cardiac transplantation in infancy are also unique because they are often subjected to thymectomy and depletion of mature T cells. These subjects can have a dramatic contraction of T cell diversity, allowing the testing of how diversity contributes to function.
Automated pre‐ejection period variation indexed to tidal volume predicts fluid responsiveness after cardiac surgery
Authors: VISTISEN S. T. , STRUIJK J. J. , LARSSON A.
Published: February 2009

Background: Reliable continuous monitoring of fluid responsiveness is an unsolved issue in patients ventilated with low tidal volume. We hypothesised that variations in the pre‐ejection period (PEP) defined as the time interval between electrocardiogram (ECG) R‐wave and onset of systolic upstroke in arterial blood pressure could reliably predict fluid responsiveness in patients ventilated with moderately low tidal volume. Furthermore, we hypothesised that indexing dynamic parameters to tidal volume would improve their prediction. The aim was to refine and automate a previously suggested algorithm for PEP variation (ΔPEP) and to test this new parameter indexed to tidal volume (PEPV), as a marker of fluid responsiveness along with central venous pressure (CVP), pulse pressure variation (PPV) and ΔPEP. Additionally, the aim was to evaluate the concept of indexing dynamic parameters to tidal volume.

Methods: Arterial pressure, CVP, ECG and cardiac index (CI) were acquired from 23 mechanically ventilated post‐cardiac surgery patients scheduled for volume expansion. PEPV, PPV and ΔPEP were extracted.

Results: Using responder/non‐responder classification (response=change in CI>+15%), sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 83%, respectively, for PEPV, 94% and 83% for ΔPEP, and 94% and 83% for PPV. CVP offered no relevant information. Tidal volume indexing improved sensitivity for ΔPEP to 100%.

Conclusion: In this study in post‐cardiac surgery patients, a refined parameter, PEPV, predicted fluid responsiveness better than PPV and ΔPEP. Our results suggest that dynamic parameters using variations in PEP should be indexed to tidal volume.
Increased arterial pressure is not predictive of haemodynamic instability in patients undergoing adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma
Authors: LENTSCHENER C. , GAUJOUX S. , THILLOIS J. M. , DUBOC D. , BERTHERAT J. , OZIER Y. , DOUSSET B.
Published: February 2009

Background: Pre‐operative hypotensive drugs are assumed to have dramatically decreased operative mortality and morbidity in patients undergoing phaeochromocytoma removal only in non‐controlled studies. We evaluated the predictive value of pre‐operative high systolic arterial pressure (SAP) on intra‐ and post‐operative haemodynamic instability, in 96 patients undergoing laparoscopic adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma.

Methods: Ninety‐six consecutive patients underwent laparoscopic adrenalectomy for phaeochromocytoma. Pre‐operative SAP was not systematically normalised, provided that increased SAP was clinically tolerated. Intravenous nicardipine, esmolol and norepinephrine were intraoperatively titrated to treat SAP increase >150 mmHg, tachycardia >90–110/min, arrhythmia or SAP decrease under 90 mmHg, respectively. Volume expanders were not systematically administered. Patients with increased and normal pre‐operative SAP were compared with respect to (a) nicardipine, esmolol and norepinephrine requirement, (b) highest intraoperative SAP and heat rate, (c) lowest intraoperative SAP, (d) duration of surgery and (e) norepinephrine requirement following tumour removal.

Results: Groups did not differ significantly with respect to data defined as being indicative of perioperative haemodynamic instability (all P values>0.05).

Discussion: As previously demonstrated, in patients undergoing phaeochromocytoma removal, perioperative haemodynamic changes are mainly due to catecholamine release during tumour manipulation, and to the decrease in catecholamine level following tumour removal. Whether pre‐operative hypotensive drugs are likely to alter these changes remains questionable.

Conclusion: For most patients scheduled for laparoscopic phaeochromocytoma removal, surgery can be carried out without systematic pre‐operative arterial pressure normalisation.
Day surgery in Finland: a prospective cohort study of 14 day‐surgery units
Authors: MATTILA K. , HYNYNEN M. ,   FOR THE INTENSIUM CONSORTIUM STUDY GROUP
Published: February 2009

Background: Day surgery is an established practice for elective operative care, and is considered safe and cost‐effective in several procedures and for several patients. At present, day‐surgery accounts for approximately 50% of elective surgery in Finland. The aim of this study was to prospectively describe the present situation at Finnish day‐surgery units, focusing on the quality of care.

Methods: Fourteen large‐ to medium‐sized day surgery and short‐stay units were recruited, and all patient cases performed during a 2‐month study period were registered and analyzed. Quality of care was assessed by analyzing the rates and reasons for overnight admission, readmission, reoperation, and cancellations. Satisfaction of care was inquired from day‐ surgery patients during a 2‐week period. Head anesthesiologists were interviewed about functional policies.

Results: Of 7915 reported cases, 84% were day surgery. Typically, several specialties were represented at the units, with orthopedics accounting for nearly 30% of all day‐surgery procedures. Patient selection criteria were in line with the present‐day recommendations, although the proportion of older patients and the ASA physical status 3 patients were still relatively low. The rate of unplanned overnight admissions was 5.9%. Return hospital visits were reported in 3.7% and readmissions in 0.7% of patients 1–28 days post‐operatively. Patient satisfaction was high.

Conclusion: Along with the growing demand for day surgery, Finnish public hospitals have succeeded in providing good‐quality care, and there still seems to be potential to increase the share of day surgery. Easily accessible benchmarking tools are needed for quality control and learning from peers.
Survival of the steepest: hypersensitivity to mutations as an adaptation to soft selection
Authors: ARCHETTI M.
Published: February 2009

Darwinian evolution favours genotypes with high fitness (‘survival of the fittest’). Models of quasi‐species evolution, however, suggest that in some cases selection may favour genotypes that are more robust against the impact of mutations (‘survival of the flattest’) even if these genotypes have lower fitness. I show that the opposite effect will be observed if competition occurs during development (e.g. among embryos or ovules) or before the adult phase (e.g. among the progeny of an individual). If viability is not affected by selection at these initial stages (soft selection), the genotypes that are more sensitive to the effects of mutations may increase in frequency because they get rid more easily of deleterious mutations. In a simple theoretical model of mutation and selection, genotypes located in steeper regions of the fitness surface are favoured (‘survival of the steepest’) even if they do not have higher viability, and even if they have slightly deleterious effects. Hypersensitive genes are potentially harmful for the individual, but with soft selection during the juvenile phase they persist in the genome because they reduce competition with their mutants. Soft selection occurs in practically all vascular plants and in many animals, therefore antirobustness may be a very common feature of the genome of multicellular organisms.
Optimal climbing speed explains the evolution of extreme sexual size dimorphism in spiders
Authors: MOYA‐LARAÑO J. , VINKOVIĆ D. , ALLARD C. M. , FOELLMER M. W.
Published: February 2009

Several hypotheses have been put forward to explain the evolution of extreme sexual size dimorphism (SSD). Among them, the gravity hypothesis (GH) explains that extreme SSD has evolved in spiders because smaller males have a mating or survival advantage by climbing faster. However, few studies have supported this hypothesis thus far. Using a wide span of spider body sizes, we show that there is an optimal body size (7.4 mm) for climbing and that extreme SSD evolves only in spiders that: (1) live in high‐habitat patches and (2) in which females are larger than the optimal size. We report that the evidence for the GH across studies depends on whether the body size of individuals expands beyond the optimal climbing size. We also present an ad hoc biomechanical model that shows how the higher stride frequency of small animals predicts an optimal body size for climbing.
The teleomorph of Chalara fraxinea, the causal agent of ash dieback
Authors: Kowalski T. , Holdenrieder O.
Published: February 2009

Ash dieback, caused by the pathogen Chalara fraxinea, is an emerging lethal disease of Fraxinus excelsior, threatening the host species in large parts of Europe. The ascomycete Hymenoscyphus albidus (Helotiaceae, Helotiales) was identified as the teleomorph of C. fraxinea by culturing from ascospores, morphological comparison and nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequencing.
Non‐iterative variance component estimation in QTL analysis
Authors: Rönnegård L. , Al‐Sarraj R. , Von Rosen D.
Published: February 2009

In variance component quantitative trait loci (QTL) analysis, a mixed model is used to detect the most likely chromosome position of a QTL. The putative QTL is included as a random effect and a method is needed to estimate the QTL variance. The standard estimation method used is an iterative method based on the restricted maximum likelihood (REML). In this paper, we present a novel non‐iterative variance component estimation method. This method is based on Henderson's method 3, but relaxes the condition of unbiasedness. Two similar estimators were compared, which were developed from two different partitions of the sum of squares in Henderson's method 3. The approach was compared with REML on data from a European wild boar × domestic pig intercross. A meat quality trait was studied on chromosome 6 where a functional gene was known to be located. Both partitions resulted in estimated QTL variances close to the REML estimates. From the non‐iterative estimates, we could also compute good approximations of the likelihood ratio curve on the studied chromosome.
Variation in direct and maternal genetic effects for meat production traits in Egyptian Zaraibi goats
Authors: Shaat I. , Mäki‐Tanila A.
Published: February 2009

Multi‐trait analyses were carried out to quantify the (co)variation in meat production traits in Zaraibi goats. The data were obtained from a research station. There were birth weight records on 6610 kids, of which 5970 and 5237 had also pre‐and postweaning gain record, respectively. The kids were progeny of 115 bucks and 1387 does, which had altogether 3603 litter size and milk yield records in different parities and which were daughters of 109 sires and 721 dams. Single‐trait analyses were carried out as preliminary to a three‐trait (litter size, birth weight, early growth) and five‐trait (litter size, milk and growth traits) analyses. The analyses containing birth weight data required the highest number of iteration rounds in estimating the variance components using AI REML. The maternal genetic component was important for the genetic variation of birth weight and preweaning gain. In general, direct heritability was low (0.03–0.12) for growth traits, possibly due to the low‐input environment. The estimates on genetic correlation between direct and maternal effects within these traits indicated mostly favourable relationship. Genetic antagonism was found between birth weight and early growth. Heritability (repeatability) for 90‐day and total milk yield was 0.16–0.23 and 0.23–0.24 (0.28 and 0.39–0.40), respectively and 0.04–0.05 (0.10–0.11) for litter size. The genetic correlation between 90‐day (total) milk yield and litter size was 0.45 (0.22). The correlation between the milk yield and the maternal genetic effects for the preweaning gain was very high (0.94). Selection schemes aiming to improve meat (litter size and growth) and milk production simultaneously are feasible. The increased milk production serves also for the acceleration of early growth in kids.
Canola oil increases in polyunsaturated fatty acids and decreases in oleic acid in drought‐stressed Mediterranean‐type environments
Authors: Aslam M. N. , Nelson M. N. , Kailis S. G. , Bayliss K. L. , Speijers J. , Cowling W. A.
Published: February 2009

Seed fatty acid (FA) composition, oil and protein (meal) was assessed on five canola (Brassica napus) varieties in 14 cropping environments in southern Australia, including several low rainfall drought‐stressed environments. We modelled the relationship between seed quality attributes and growing season rainfall and temperature using a linear mixed model. Variance components for variety and years within locations were relatively large, but variance components for variety × environment interaction were small or insignificant for most seed quality traits. Mean oleic acid content varied from 57% in ‘Surpass 300TT’ to 62% in ‘ATR‐Beacon’. As growing season rainfall decreased from 300 mm (moderate) to 150 mm (severe drought stress), mean oleic acid decreased by 3.8%, linoleic acid increased by 2.0%, linolenic acid increased by 1.7%, and saturated FA decreased by 0.4%. Seed oil (% dry weight) decreased by 3.2% and protein in meal (% dry weight) increased by 3.9% across the same rainfall range. High oleic acid composition was associated with higher rainfall and cooler average minimum and maximum temperatures during the growing season.
Undiagnosed dementia and value of serial cognitive impairment screening in developing countries: A population‐based study
Authors: Jitapunkul Sutthichai , Chansirikanjana Sirintorn , Thamarpirat Jittima
Published: February 2009

Background:  We conducted a population‐based prospective study in 420 older persons to examine the prevalence of undiagnosed dementia and validity of the Chula Mental Test (CMT) as well as value of serial administration of the CMT and its score evolution over 2 years.

Methods:  The CMT score was obtained in 1997 and 1999 surveys. In 1999, all participants were evaluated by a geriatrician to make diagnoses of dementia according to the 4th edn of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual criteria. Information on previous diagnosis of dementia by physicians was collected. Validity of the CMT was determined by the receiver–operator curve. The pattern of cognitive evolution over 2 years was analyzed.

Results:  Of 420 subjects, 23 had dementia, of which 22 (95.6%) were undiagnosed. The prevalence (95% confidence interval) of dementia and undiagnosed dementia were 5.5% (3.3–7.7%) and 5.3% (4.1–6.3%), respectively. With original cut‐off (15/14) of the CMT, the sensitivity and specificity were 0.74 and 0.86, respectively. The best cut‐off found in this study was 16/15 which provided better sensitivity (0.91) but worse specificity (0.76) than those of the original cut‐off. Pattern of cognitive evolution was heterogeneous. The heterogeneous change was substantial in subjects with mild low CMT score. Cognitive evolution pattern showed that serial administration of the CMT could reduce workload of primary care physicians and might be useful in a screening protocol.

Conclusion:  The prevalence of undiagnosed dementia in community‐dwelling Thai older persons was high. The CMT was valid for use in a community. Heterogeneous evolution of cognitive function and value of serial cognitive impairment screening was found.
Effect of exercise, aging and functional capacity on acute secretory immunoglobulin A response in elderly people over 75 years of age
Authors: Sakamoto Yuzuru , Ueki Shouzoh , Kasai Toshiyuki , Takato Jinro , Shimanuki Hideki , Honda Haruhiko , Ito Tsunehisa , Haga Hiroshi
Published: February 2009

Background:  Age‐associated decline in immune function and regulation, referred to as immunosenescence, brings about an increased incidence of infectious diseases in the aged; however, there are few data on the effect of aging and exercise on mucosal immune function in elderly people. Moreover, there is no evidence on whether the change in functional capacity affects mucosal immunity in elderly people. Therefore, the aim of the present study was to examine the effects of exercise, aging and functional capacity on mucosal immune function in elderly people over 75 years of age.

Methods:  The subjects were 92 community‐dwelling elderly women aged over 75 years who lived in a rural community in Miyagi Prefecture. The subjects periodically performed approximately 20 min of low intensity exercise. Saliva samples were collected before and after exercise, and saliva flow (SF), secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) concentration (SIgA‐C) and SIgA secretion rate (SIgA‐SR) were determined. The Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Gerontology Index of Competence (TMIG‐IC) was used to measure functional capacity.

Results:  In comparison with before exercise, SF, SIgA‐C and SIgA‐SR were significantly increased after exercise in elderly subjects. In addition, when low and high value groups of resting SIgA levels were compared, acute SIgA responses were observed only in the low value group; however, there was no significant effect of aging and decline in functional capacity on exercise‐induced SIgA response.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that resting SIgA levels influence the mucosal immune function response to exercise in elderly people over 75 years of age.
Bibliographical investigation of complementary alternative medicines for osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Kikuchi Motoo , Matsuura Kentaro , Matsumoto Yoshifuji , Inagaki Toshiaki , Ueda Ryuzo
Published: February 2009

Background:  A variety of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) treatments are provided to the elderly. We investigated the efficacy and safety of CAM substances that are available to patients with osteoarthritis (OA) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA), both in Japan and overseas.

Methods:  Information on CAM products was collected from the World Wide Web, using the keywords “arthritis” and “supplement” in five languages (Japanese, English, French, Italian and German) using a popular search engine for each of the languages. References to published work on the products were researched using PubMed with the keywords of “arthritis”, “anti‐inflammatory” and “analgesics”. Such published work was classified according to the evidence levels established by the Cochrane Library.

Results:  Two‐hundred and sixty CAM products for OA or RA were available in Japan, of which 41 CAM products had been tested in randomized controlled trials (RCT); there was no scientific evidence for the remaining 219 CAM products. Most of the previous RCT suggested that CAM was effective in OA or RA. Herein, we confirmed the significant OA relieving effects of chondroitin sulfate through a meta‐analysis. Effectiveness was assessed using subjective scores, not disease‐specific immunological or serological markers for assessment. Toxicological investigations had only been performed for a few CAM products.

Conclusion:  Some CAM products that are effective against RA may be used together with biological therapy. However, some of the CAM products available in Japan should be tested using objective markers. Some CAM products for OA could be used for the relief of pain.
Silent information regulator, Sirtuin 1, and age‐related diseases
Authors: Zeng Li , Chen Rui , Liang Fengxia , Tsuchiya Hiroshi , Murai Hiroshi , Nakahashi Takeshi , Iwai Kunimitsu , Takahashi Takashi , Kanda Tsugiyasu , Morimoto Shigeto
Published: February 2009

Sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), a member of the silent information regulator 2 in mammals, has recently been found to be involved in age‐related diseases, such as cancer, metabolic diseases, cardiovascular disease, neurodegenerative diseases, osteoporosis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), mainly through deacetylation of substrates such as p53, forkhead box class O, peroxisome proliferator activated receptor γ co‐activator 1α, and nuclear factor‐κB. It is widely reported that SIRT1 can promote not only carcinogenesis but also metastasis and insulin resistance, andhave beneficial effects in metabolic diseases, mediate high‐density lipoprotein synthesis and regulate endothelial nitric oxide to protect against cardiovascular disease, have a cardioprotective role in heart failure, protect against neurodegenerative pathological changes, promote osteoblast differentiation, and also play a pivotal role as an anti‐inflammatory mediator in COPD. However, there are controversial results suggesting that SIRT1 has an effect in protecting against DNA damage and accumulation of mutations, and preventing tumorigenesis. In addition, a high level of SIRT1 can induce cardiomyopathy and even heart failure. This article reviews recent developments relating to these issues.