bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secretory Radial Glia in the Ectoneural System of the Sea Star Asterias rubens (Echinodermata)
Authors: Viehweg J. , Naumann W. W. , Olsson R.
Published: April 2010

Previous studies of epithelial nervous systems have focused on the neuronal elements, but generally neglected the origin of neuro–glial interactions. In this study, we use a polyclonal antiserum directed against Reissner's substance to label non‐neuronal bipolar cells in the ectoneural part of the radial nerve cord in the sea star Asterias rubens. Ultrastructural results show secretory activity in these bipolar cells. Immunolabelled material is released into the extracellular matrix in the hyaline layer as well as in the region of the basal end‐feet. As a first step towards characterising the antigen, a specific protein band of 36 kD was demonstrated with immunoprecipitation. Cells of this type: (1) traverse the epithelium to full extent from the outer surface to the basal lamina; (2) carry a single apical cilium; (3) contain conspicuous bundles of intermediate filament; (4) produce a secretion which is, at least in part, homologous to the Reissner's substance which is produced by a primitive radial glia cell type in chordates. It is concluded that the bipolar cells in the ectoneural part of the surface epithelium of the sea star Asterias rubens are secretory radial glia, which evidently have a common origin to the radial glia which secretes Reissner's substance in chordates.
Symbiotic Bacteria on the Epidermis of Species of the Nemertodermatida (Platyhelminthes, Acoelomorpha)
Authors: Lundin Kennet
Published: April 2010

Meara stichopi and an undescribed species of Meara, both endosymbiotic in the intestine of aspidochirote holothurians, possess filiform extraepidermal bacteria among the epidermal cilia. Similar bacteria were also observed on one specimen of the free‐living species Nemertoderma westbladi. The bacteria are of the gram‐negative type, as evident by cell wall structure and results from gramstaining. On a few specimens of M. stichopi, the bacteria were found to carry peculiar distal appendages, or buds, on stalked cup‐shaped cell extensions. As the bacteria described here appear to be species specific, they can be used in addition to other features in the often problematic characterization of the nemertodermatid species.
Signatures of speciation? Distribution and diversity of Hypoplectrus (Teleostei: Serranidae) colour morphotypes
Authors: Holt B. G. , Côté I. M. , Emerson B. C.
Published: April 2010

Aim  To test historical and current influences on the distributions of sympatric colour morphotypes in the coral reef fish genus Hypoplectrus.

Location  The Caribbean and surrounding tropical waters. These areas cover the entire distribution of the genus.

Methods  A large and extensive database of Hypoplectrus sightings was used to establish the distribution of colour morphotypes and test a long‐standing hypothesis regarding their origin. First, we considered the evidence for the previously proposed ‘population centre’ hypothesis, which suggests that current morphotype distributions reflect past conditions where these colour forms evolved in allopatry. Using morphotype sighting data, the existence of clusters in occurrence and density was tested. Second, we examined whether the observed patterns of morphotype co‐occurrence deviate from random expectations using null model simulations, within subregions of the distribution of the genus, to infer ecological influences on distribution.

Results  There is considerable variation in morphotype distribution, with even widespread morphotypes showing geographical clustering. There is also little evidence to suggest past or current geographical isolation, with only one of the 11 morphotypes (Hypoplectrus chlorurus) showing a density distribution that is consistent with the population centre hypothesis. Null model analyses show that variation in local morphotype co‐occurrence is typically significantly lower than expected under random dispersal conditions.

Main conclusions  Our results strongly suggest that morphotype co‐occurrence is not random, but there is no evidence to suggest a past allopatric radiation in Hypoplectrus colour. Current distributions are likely to be driven by competitive interactions and/or habitat preferences. Our study highlights the value of the Hypoplectrus species complex as a system for the study of speciation in the marine environment, and implies that these closely related morphotypes have ecological relevance rather than being simple colour variants of a single polymorphic species.
PERFORMANCE REPORTING BY MALAYSIAN LOCAL AUTHORITIES: IDENTIFYING STAKEHOLDER NEEDS
Authors: Tooley Stuart , Hooks Jill , Basnan Norida
Published: April 2010

The concept of public accountability promotes the need for a comprehensive set of performance‐related information to satisfy the information needs of a diverse stakeholder interest group. However, literature concerned with the scope of information to be disclosed, and in particular within the context of a developing country, is limited. This paper identifies the information set which stakeholders of Malaysian local authorities consider relevant in the monitoring and assessment of local authority performance. Stakeholders indicated strong interest in performance information that is not traditionally disclosed in the financial statements: non‐financial information particularly performance measurement of outputs, outcomes, efficiency and effectiveness. Disclosures in the Statement of Revenue and Expenditure and forward‐looking information are generally regarded as the most important disclosures. The results of the study also indicate differences amongst stakeholders as to the level of importance that they place on certain items especially items related to internal policies and governance and financial position of the local authorities. The findings will be of significance to policy makers interested in improving the performance reporting of Malaysian public sector entities, particularly local authorities.
Genetic analysis of LRRK2 functional domains in Brazilian patients with Parkinson’s disease
Authors: Abdalla‐Carvalho C. B. , Santos‐Rebouças C. B. , Guimarães B. C. , Campos M. , Pereira J. S. , Zuma de Rosso A. L. , Nicaretta D. H. , Marinho e Silva M. , Mendonça dos Santos J. , Pimentel M. M. G.
Published: April 2010

Background and purpose:  Mutations in the leucine‐rich repeat kinase 2 gene (LRRK2) have been associated with Parkinson’s disease (PD), and the majority of the pathogenic variants are located in the ROC and MAPKKK domains.

Methods:  Exons 29–31 and 38–44 (ROC and MAPKKK domains) were sequenced in 204 patients with PD, mostly Brazilian.

Results:  We identified four polymorphisms, a novel silent variant p.R1398R and four substitutions: p.T1410M, p.G2019S, p.Y2189C and the novel variant p.C2139S.

Conclusions:  The most prevalent mutation was the p.G2019S (2.4%). We consider that the p.T1410M and the p.Y2189C variants are probably polymorphisms and that the p.C2139S mutation is potentially pathogenic.
NEW METHODOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENTS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL COMPARISON PROGRAM
Authors: Diewert Erwin
Published: April 2010

The paper explains new methodology that was used in the 2005 International Comparison Program (ICP) that compared the relative price levels and GDP levels across 146 countries. In this round of the ICP, the world was divided into six regions: OECD, CIS, Africa, South America, Asia Pacific, and West Asia. What is new in this round compared to previous rounds of the ICP is that each region was allowed to develop its own product list and collect prices on this list for countries in the region. The regions were then linked using another separate product list; 18 countries across the six regions collected prices for products on this list and this information was used to link prices and quantities across the regions. An additional complication was that the final linking of prices and volumes across regions had to respect the regional price and volume measures that were (separately) constructed by the regions. The paper also studies the properties of the Iklé–Dikhanov–Balk multilateral system of index numbers which was used by Africa.
Co‐administration of ibuprofen and nitric oxide is an effective experimental therapy for muscular dystrophy, with immediate applicability to humans
Authors: Sciorati Clara , Buono Roberta , Azzoni Emanuele , Casati Silvana , Ciuffreda Pierangela , D'Angelo Grazia , Cattaneo Dario , Brunelli Silvia , Clementi Emilio
Published: April 2010

Background and purpose:  Current therapies for muscular dystrophy are based on corticosteroids. Significant side effects associated with these therapies have prompted several studies aimed at identifying possible alternative strategies. As inflammation and defects of nitric oxide (NO) generation are key pathogenic events in muscular dystrophies, we have studied the effects of combining the NO donor isosorbide dinitrate (ISDN) and the non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug ibuprofen.

Experimental approach:  α‐Sarcoglycan‐null mice were treated for up to 8 months with ISDN (30 mg·kg−1) plus ibuprofen (50 mg·kg−1) administered daily in the diet. Effects of ISDN and ibuprofen alone were assessed in parallel. Drug effects on animal motility and muscle function, muscle damage, inflammatory infiltrates and cytokine levels, as well as muscle regeneration including assessment of endogenous stem cell pool, were measured at selected time points.

Key results:  Combination of ibuprofen and ISDN stimulated regeneration capacity, of myogenic precursor cells, reduced muscle necrotic damage and inflammation. Muscle function in terms of free voluntary movement and resistance to exercise was maintained throughout the time window analysed. The effects of ISDN and ibuprofen administered separately were transient and significantly lower than those induced by their combination.

Conclusions and implications:  Co‐administration of NO and ibuprofen provided synergistic beneficial effects in a mouse model of muscular dystrophy, leading to an effective therapy. Our results open the possibility of immediate clinical testing of a combination of ISDN and ibuprofen in dystrophic patients, as both components are approved for use in humans, with a good safety profile.
Economic and Social Dimensions of Environmental Behavior: Balancing Conservation and Development in Bhutan
Authors: BROOKS JEREMY S.
Published: April 2010

Abstract:  One of the primary approaches to environmental conservation emphasizes economic development. This conservation‐and‐development approach often ignores how development affects sociocultural characteristics that may motivate environmental behaviors (actions that actively benefit or limit one's negative impacts on the environment). Evolutionary anthropologists espouse a theoretical perspective that supports the conservation‐and‐development approach. Others believe sociocultural factors are the foundation of environmental behavior and worry that development will erode the values and norms that may shape such behavior. My research assistants and I surveyed 170 individuals from eight villages in two communities in Bhutan to explore whether economic (wealth, market integration) or social (religious behaviors, environmental values, social capital) factors are better indicators of environmental behavior. I used multilevel modeling to analyze use of fuelwood, use of agricultural chemicals, and tree planting, and to determine whether social norms were associated with these behaviors. Although economic factors were more often associated with these behaviors than social factors, local conditions and control variables were the best indicators of behaviors. Furthermore, economic factors were not always associated with positive environmental outcomes. Instead, farmers attempted to make the best economic decisions given their circumstances rather than seeking to conserve resources. Although religion was not a strong predictor of any of the behaviors I examined, I found evidence that the understanding of Buddhist philosophy is growing, which suggests that social factors may play a more prominent role as Bhutan's development progresses. My results highlight the need for conservation planners to be aware of local conditions when planning and implementing policies aimed at motivating environmental behaviors and that economic and social motivations for conservation may not be mutually exclusive.
Assessment of Coronary Flow Parameters by Transesophageal Echocardiography in Patients with Isolated Coronary Artery Ectasia: Effect of Intravenous Nitroglycerin
Authors: AbdelDayem Tarek M. K. , El‐Mawardy Ramzy , Abdel‐Dayem M. Khairy , Rayan Mona , El‐Mahmoudy Ahmed , Shawky Gamal , Nammas Wail
Published: April 2010

Background: We sought to assess coronary flow parameters in patients with isolated coronary artery ectasia (CAE) as compared to subjects with normal coronaries. Methods: Consecutively, we enrolled 30 patients with ectasia of the left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery (study group), and 10 subjects with normal coronaries (control group). All patients underwent transesophageal echocardiography to visualize the LAD. Spectral recordings of proximal LAD flow velocities were made and velocity time integrals were calculated. The diameter of the proximal LAD was measured and LAD blood flow was calculated. Nitroglycerin (0.3 mg) was administered intravenously and measurements were repeated 5 minutes later. Results: The mean age of the whole series was 48.6 ± 8 years, 39 (97.5%) being males. A significantly higher baseline systolic, diastolic, and total coronary blood flow was found in the study group as compared to the control group (46.1 ± 34.3 vs. 23.1 ± 8.2, 123.9 ± 73.3 vs. 68.1 ± 21.6, 170.1 ± 97.9 vs. 91.1 ± 26.8 cm3/min, respectively, P < 0.05 for all). Within the study group, nitroglycerin administration caused a significant decrease in peak diastolic velocity; systolic, diastolic, and total velocity time integrals; and both diastolic and total coronary blood flow (P < 0.05 for all). Meanwhile, within the control group, nitroglycerin administration caused a significant increase in the total coronary blood flow (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Patients with CAE have higher resting coronary blood flow in comparison with subjects with normal coronaries. Intravenous nitroglycerin administration causes significant reduction of coronary blood flow in ectatic coronary arteries. (Echocardiography 2010;27:1004‐1010)
Impact of Scribes on Performance Indicators in the Emergency Department
Authors: Arya Rajiv , Salovich Danielle M. , Ohman‐Strickland Pamela , Merlin Mark A.
Published: April 2010

Objectives:  The objective was to quantify the effect of scribes on three measures of emergency physician (EP) productivity in an adult emergency department (ED).

Methods:  For this retrospective study, 243 clinical shifts (of either 10 or 12 hours) worked by 13 EPs during an 18‐month period were selected for evaluation. Payroll data sheets were examined to determine whether these shifts were covered, uncovered, or partially covered (for less than 4 hours) by a scribe; partially covered shifts were grouped with uncovered shifts for analysis. Covered shifts were compared to uncovered shifts in a clustered design, by physician. Hierarchical linear models were used to study the association between percentage of patients with which a scribe was used during a shift and EP productivity as measured by patients per hour, relative value units (RVUs) per hour, and turnaround time (TAT) to discharge.

Results:  RVUs per hour increased by 0.24 units (95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.10 to 0.38, p = 0.0011) for every 10% increment in scribe usage during a shift. The number of patients per hour increased by 0.08 (95% CI = 0.04 to 0.12, p = 0.0024) for every 10% increment of scribe usage during a shift. TAT was not significantly associated with scribe use. These associations did not lose significance after accounting for physician assistant (PA) use.

Conclusions:  In this retrospective study, EP use of a scribe was associated with improved overall productivity as measured by patients treated per hour (Pt/hr) and RVU generated per hour by EPs, but not as measured by TAT to discharge.

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:490–494 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Effectiveness of Corticosteroid Treatment in Acute Pharyngitis: A Systematic Review of the Literature
Authors: Wing Andrew , Villa‐Roel Cristina , Yeh Benson , Eskin Barnet , Buckingham Jeanette , Rowe Brian H.
Published: April 2010

Objectives:  The objective was to examine the effectiveness of corticosteroid treatment for the relief of pain associated with acute pharyngitis potentially caused by group A beta‐hemolytic Streptococcus (GABHS).

Methods:  This was a systematic review of the literature. Data sources used were electronic databases (Cochrane Library, MEDLINE, EMBASE, Biosis Previews, Scopus, and Web of Science), controlled trial registration websites, conference proceedings, study references, experts in the field, and correspondence with authors. Selection criteria consisted of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) in which corticosteroids, alone or in combination with antibiotics, were compared to placebo or any other standard therapy for treatment of acute pharyngitis in adult patients, pediatric patients, or both. Two reviewers independently assessed for relevance, inclusion, and study quality. Weighted mean differences (WMDs) were calculated and are reported with corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results:  From 272 potentially relevant citations, 10 studies met the inclusion criteria. When compared to placebo, corticosteroids reduced the time to clinically meaningful pain relief (WMD = −4.54 hours; 95% CI = −7.19 to −1.89); however, they provided only a small reduction in pain scores at 24 hours (WMD = −0.90 on a 0−10 visual analog scale; 95% CI = −1.5 to −0.3). Heterogeneity among pooled studies was identified for both outcomes (I2 = 81 and 74%, respectively); however, the GABHS‐positive subgroup receiving corticosteroid treatment did have a significant mean reduction in time to clinically meaningful pain relief of 5.22 hours (95% CI = −7.02 to −3.42; I2 = 0%). Short‐term side effect profiles between corticosteroids and placebo groups were similar.

Conclusions:  Corticosteroid administration for acute pharyngitis was associated with a relatively small effect in time to clinically meaningful pain relief (4.5‐hour reduction) and in pain relief at 24 hours (0.9‐point reduction), with significant heterogeneity in the pooled results. Decision‐making should be individualized to determine the risks and benefits; however, corticosteroids should not be used as routine treatment for acute pharyngitis.

ACADEMIC EMERGENCY MEDICINE 2010; 17:476–483 © 2010 by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine
Increased sensitivity of patch testing by standardized tape stripping beforehand: a multicentre diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Dickel Heinrich , Kreft Burkhard , Kuss Oliver , Worm Margitta , Soost Stephanie , Brasch Jochen , Pfützner Wolfgang , Grabbe Jürgen , Angelova‐Fischer Irena , Elsner Peter , Fluhr Joachim , Altmeyer Peter , Geier Johannes
Published: April 2010

Background: As a modification of patch testing, the strip patch test was established to obtain more sensitive and reliable test results. Comparative data on diagnostic accuracy for both tests are missing.

Objectives: To compare the diagnostic accuracy of strip patch tests and patch tests in detecting sensitizations in patients with suspected allergic contact dermatitis by using patient history as the reference standard.

Patients/methods: In a multicentre, prospective, investigator‐blinded study 790 patients were enrolled. The defined reference standard was established prior to patch testing. Patch tests were performed with nickel sulfate, potassium dichromate, and lanolin alcohol. Duplicate tests were simultaneously performed on both sides of the back, of which one randomly chosen side was tape stripped beforehand, according to a standardized procedure. Primary outcome was the difference in sensitivity between strip patch test and patch test.

Results: Seven hundred and eighty‐seven patients were included in the analysis. Strip patch tests detected considerably more sensitization to nickel sulfate and potassium dichromate than patch tests: differences of sensitivities were 16.4% (95% CI, 8.7–24.1%) for nickel sulfate and 25.0% (95% CI, 8.9–41.0%) for potassium dichromate, both favouring the strip patch test.

Conclusions: The standardized strip patch test proved to be accurate and clinically safe and is promising to improve diagnosis of allergic contact dermatitis beyond the patch test.
Multiple environmental determinants of regional species richness and effects of geographic range size
Authors: Tello J. Sebastián , Stevens Richard D.
Published: April 2010

Understanding patterns of species richness at broad geographic extents remains one of the most challenging yet necessary scientific goals of our time. Many hypotheses have been proposed to account for spatial variation in species richness; among them, environmental determinants have played a central role. In this study, we use data on regional bat species richness in the New World to study redundancy and complementarity of three environmental hypotheses: energy, heterogeneity and seasonality. We accomplish this by partitioning variation in species richness among components associated with unique and combined effects of variables from each hypotheses, and by partitioning the overall richness gradient into gradients of species with varying breadths of geographic distribution.

These three environmental hypotheses explain most variation in the species richness gradient of all bats, but do not account for all positive spatial autocorrelation at short distances. Although environmental predictors are highly redundant, energy and seasonality explain different and complementary fractions of variation in species richness of all bats. On the other hand, heterogeneity variables contribute little to explain this gradient. However, results change dramatically when richness is estimated for groups of species with different sizes of geographic distribution. First, the amount of variation explained by environment decreases with a decrease in range size; this suggests that richness gradients of small‐ranged species can not be explained as easily as those of broadly distributed species, as has been implied by analyses that do not consider differences in range size among species. Second, the relative contribution of environmental predictors to explained variation also changes with change in range size. Seasonality and energy are good predictors of species with broad distributions, but they loose almost all explanatory power for richness of species with small ranges. In contrast, heterogeneity, which is a relatively poor predictor of richness of species with large ranges, becomes the main predictor of richness gradients of species with restricted distributions. This suggests that range size is a different dimension on which heterogeneity and other environmental characteristics are complementary to each other. Our results suggest that determinants of species richness gradients might be complex, or at least more complex than many studies have previously suggested.
Adolescents with type 1 diabetes and risky behaviour
Authors: Scaramuzza AE , De Palma A , Mameli C , Spiri D , Santoro L , Zuccotti GV
Published: April 2010

Aim:  The aim of the student is to assess whether adolescents with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM) in Italy differ from their healthy peers in regard to risky behaviour.

Methods:  Data were collected from 215 patients, aged 14 ± 2 years with a mean disease duration of 7 ± 5 years. The control group was comprised of 464 healthy adolescents recruited among high school students. Each patient completed an anonymous confidential questionnaire to determine the prevalence of sexual behaviour, alcohol and tobacco consumption, illicit drug use, and, among patients with diabetes and frequency of mismanagement related to diabetes care.

Results:  Compared with controls, subjects with diabetes showed a similar rate of sexual intercourse among males and lower rates among females (34.8% vs 35.5%, p NS and 29.4% vs 41.4%, p < 0.05, respectively). Males in the diabetes group reported a higher rate of tobacco use, whereas females showed similar or higher rates of use for every illicit drug studied. Among patients with diabetes, those who are engaged in risky behaviour showed a higher rate of treatment mismanagement (76% vs 34%, p < 0.01).

Conclusion:  Adolescents with T1DM are as likely as their healthy peers to engage in risky behaviour, indicating the potential benefit of anticipatory guidance concerning glycaemic control and increased risk of acute and chronic complications.
Radial growth responses to gap creation in large, old Sequoiadendron giganteum
Authors: York Robert A. , Fuchs Danielle , Battles John J. , Stephens Scott L.
Published: April 2010

Questions: Do large, old Sequoiadondron giganteum trees respond to the creation of adjacent canopy gaps? Do other co‐occurring tree species and younger S. giganteum adjacent to gaps also respond? What are the likely factors affecting growth responses?

Location: Mixed‐conifer forests of the southern Sierra Nevada, California, USA.

Methods: We measured the growth response of large, old S. giganteum trees (mean DBH=164 cm; ages estimated >1000 yr) to gap creation by coring trees and comparing growth after gap creation to growth before gap creation. We also measured young Abies concolor, Pinus lambertiana, and young S. giganteum. Gap‐adjacent trees were compared with non‐adjacent reference trees. Tree rings were analysed for carbon isotope discrimination and for longer‐term growth trend correlations with climate.

Results: Following gap creation gap‐adjacent old S. giganteum grew more than reference trees. Abies concolor trees also exhibited a growth response to gap creation. No response was detected for young S. giganteum or P. lambertiana, although detection power was lower for these groups. There was no difference in carbon isotope discrimination response to gap creation between gap‐adjacent and reference trees for old S. giganteum and radial growth was positively correlated with winter precipitation, but not growing season temperature.

Conclusion: It is unclear what caused the growth release in old S. giganteum trees, although liberation of below‐ground resources following removal of competing vegetation appears to be a significant contributor. Sequoiadondron giganteum, the third‐longest lived and the largest of all species, remains sensitive to local environmental changes even after canopy emergence. Management activities that reduce vegetation surrounding individual specimen trees can be expected to result in increased vigor of even these very old and large trees.
Controversies in Sexual Medicine: Organic vs. Psychogenic? The Manichean Diagnosis in Sexual Medicine
Authors: Jannini Emmanuele A. , McCabe Marita P. , Salonia Andrea , Montorsi Francesco , Sachs Benjamin D.
Published: April 2010

Introduction

The Manichean diagnosis, psychogenic or organic, is the first and most frequent diagnostic scope managing sexual disorders. The aim of this Controversy is to discuss if this philosophy is still useful both in the conceptual and clinical perspective.

Methods

Five scientists (an endocrinologist, two psychologist, and two urologists) with expertise in the area of psychosexology and sexual medicine were asked to contribute with their opinions.

Main Outcome Measure

Expert opinion supported by the critical review of the currently available literature.

Result

Expert # 1, who is Controversy’s section Editor, suggests that the term psychogenic is redundant, because all sexual dysfunctions involve the mind and the relationship with (at least) one partner. Furthermore, he is strongly against the exclusion diagnosis, in agreement with the Expert # 5. The idea that the psychogenic etiology is always present is also sustained with good arguments by the Expert # 2. On the other hand, the two Experts # 3 and 4 argue that a pharmacological treatment such as type 5 phosphodiesterase inhibitors or dapoxetine work in both organic and psychogenic conditions and that the attempt to perform a diagnostic effort is frequently useless. Last but not least, the Expert # 5 concludes that the mind–body dualism is to be considered obsolete and unhelpful in a modern approach to the patient with a sexual dysfunction.

Conclusions

The reader of the Journal will judge if there is still a room for the Manichean diagnosis of different sexual dysfunctions or if it is time to completely change our perspective on this essential aspect of clinical sexual medicine.
An allelic typing method for 2DS4 variant used in study of haplotypes of killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor gene
Authors: BAO X. , HOU L. , SUN A. , CHEN M. , CHEN Z. , HE J.
Published: April 2010

The KIR2DS4 variants differ in exon 5 and play a role in hematopoietic stem cells transplantation (HSCT). A sequence‐based testing (SBT) and TOPO TA cloning system identifying and distinguishing alleles of the KIR2DS4 gene was established and applied to a total of 150 Chinese‐Han individuals: 75 patients received T‐cell‐depleted HSCT and their unrelated donors. The majority (139) of the 150 samples (92.7%) were positive for KIR2DS4. Four of the nine known KIR2DS4 alleles, KIR2DS4 *00101, *003,*004, and *007, were identified. In the haplotype A/A group, a higher risk of acute graft‐versus‐host disease (aGVHD) was seen when the donor carried two full‐length KIR2DS4 alleles (RR 9.0 [95% CI 1.2–66.9], P = 0.010). Our findings suggested that the expression of full‐length 2DS4 (*001) in A/A group may contribute to a worse clinical outcome after URD‐HSCT. These data would be beneficial for the selection of suitable donors.
Prevalence and correlates of metabolic syndrome based on a harmonious definition among adults in the US*
Authors: FORD Earl S. , LI Chaoyang , ZHAO Guixiang
Published: April 2010

Background:  Recently, a Joint Scientific Statement bridged differences between previous definitions of metabolic syndrome. Our objective was to estimate the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in a representative sample of US adults and to examine its correlates.

Methods:  We analyzed data for up to 3461 participants aged ≥20 years of the 2003–2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey.

Results:  Using waist circumference thresholds of ≥102 cm for men and ≥88 cm for women, the age‐adjusted prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 34.3% among all adults, 36.1% among men, and 32.4% among women. Using racial‐ or ethnic‐specific International Diabetes Federation criteria for waist circumference, the age‐adjusted prevalence of metabolic syndrome was 38.5% for all participants, 41.9% for men, and 35.0% for women. Prevalence increased with age, peaking among those aged 60–69 years. Prevalence was lower among African American men than White or Mexican American men, and lower among White women than among African American or Mexican American women. In a multivariate regression model, significant independent associations were noted for age (positive), gender (men higher than women), race or ethnicity (African Americans and participants of another race lower than Whites), educational status (inverse), hypercholesterolemia (positive), concentrations of C‐reactive protein (positive), leisure time physical activity (inverse), microalbuminuria (positive), and hyperinsulinemia (positive). Additional adjustment for body mass index weakened many of the associations, with educational status and microalbuminuria no longer significant contributors to the model.

Conclusion:  Metabolic syndrome continues to be highly prevalent among adults in the US.
Bioequivalence of the 4‐mg Oral Granules and Chewable Tablet Formulations of Montelukast
Authors: Knorr Barbara , Hartford Alan , Li Xiujiang (Susie) , Yang Amy Yifan , Noonan Gertrude , Migoya Elizabeth
Published: April 2010

Purpose.  The primary objective of the studies was to demonstrate bioequivalence between the oral granules formulation and chewable tablet of montelukast in the fasted state. Effect of food on the pharmacokinetics of the oral granules was also evaluated.

Methods.  The Formulation Biocomparison Study (Study 1) and the Final Market Image Study (Study 2) each used an open‐label, randomized, 3‐period crossover design where healthy adult subjects (N = 24 and 30, respectively) received montelukast as a single 4‐mg dose of the oral granules formulation and a 4‐mg chewable tablet fasted, and a single 4‐mg dose of the oral granules formulation with food (on 2 teaspoons of applesauce [Study 1] or after consumption of a high‐fat breakfast [Study 2]). The formulations were to be considered bioequivalent if the 90% confidence intervals (CIs) for geometric mean ratios (GMRs) (oral granules/chewable tablet) for the AUC0‐∞ and Cmax of montelukast were within the prespecified comparability bounds of (0.80, 1.25). For the food‐effect assessment in Study 1, comparability bounds were prespecified as (0.50, 2.00) only for the 90% CI of the GMR (oral granules fed/oral granules fasted) for the AUC0‐∞ of montelukast; the 90% CI of the GMR for the Cmax of montelukast, however, also was computed. In Study 2, 90% CIs of the GMRs (oral granules fed/oral granules fasted) for the AUC0‐∞ and Cmax of montelukast were computed; comparability bounds were not prespecified.

Results.  Comparing the exposure of the formulations, the 90% CIs of the GMRs for AUC0‐∞ and Cmax were within the prespecified bound of (0.80, 1.25). For AUC0‐∞, the GMRs (90% CI) for Study 1 and Study 2 were 1.01 (0.92, 1.11) and 0.95 (0.91, 0.99), respectively. For Cmax, respective values were 0.99 (0.86, 1.13) and 0.92 (0.84, 1.01). When the oral granules formulation was administered with food, 90% CIs of the GMRs for both AUC0‐∞ and Cmax in both studies were contained within the interval of (0.50, 2.00).

Conclusions.  The 4‐mg oral granules and 4‐mg chewable tablet formulations of montelukast administered in the fasted state are bioequivalent. Single 4‐mg doses of the oral granules formulation and the chewable tablet of montelukast are generally well tolerated.
REVIEW: Management of Ventricular Tachycardia in Patients with Structural Heart Disease
Authors: Jacobson Jason T. , Weiner Justin B.
Published: April 2010

Patients with structural heart disease and ventricular tachycardia (VT) can be difficult to manage clinically. Many treatment options are available, but no single approach can be applied to every patient. This review aims to discuss the current options available for the management of this population. VT can be associated with cardiomyopathy of any etiology, both ischemic and nonischemic. Antiarhythmic drugs have not been shown to decrease mortality in this patient population, but they can help reduce episodes. While the advent of the implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator has revolutionized the treatment of VT, patients with recurrent shocks for VT have high morbidity and mortality. The development of catheter ablation over the past few decades has greatly aided the ability to control VT in these patients. The approach to patients with VT and structural heart disease is multifaceted. Often, a combination of therapeutic techniques is required to obtain the best result.
Novel lineages of Prochlorococcus thrive within the oxygen minimum zone of the eastern tropical South Pacific
Authors: Lavin Paris , González Bernardo , Santibáñez J. Francisco , Scanlan David J. , Ulloa Osvaldo
Published: April 2010

The eastern tropical Pacific Ocean holds two of the main oceanic oxygen minimum zones of the global ocean. The presence of an oxygen‐depleted layer at intermediate depths, which also impinges on the seafloor and in some cases the euphotic zone, plays a significant role in structuring both pelagic and benthic communities, and also in the vertical partitioning of microbial assemblages. Here, we assessed the genetic diversity and distribution of natural populations of the cyanobacteria Prochlorococcus and Synechococcus within oxic and suboxic waters of the eastern tropical Pacific using cloning and sequencing, and terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism (T‐RFLP) analyses applied to the 16S–23S rRNA internal transcribed spacer region. With the T‐RFLP approach we could discriminate 19 cyanobacterial clades, of which 18 were present in the study region. Synechococcus was more abundant in the surface oxic waters of the eastern South Pacific, while Prochlorococcus dominated the subsurface low‐oxygen waters. Two of the dominant clades in the oxygen‐deficient waters belong to novel and yet uncultivated lineages of low‐light adapted Prochlorococcus.
Laparoscopic resection of extra‐gastrointestinal stromal tumor of the transverse mesocolon
Authors: Asakage N , Mori E , Yong LS , Haraguchi Y , Suzuki T , Tsukada K , Yamamoto T , Kobayashi S , Yamada T , Yamasaki S
Published: April 2010

The patient was a 58‐year‐old man. A recent complete work‐up was done to find the cause of epigastric pain and revealed a nodule about 4 cm in diameter in the upper right abdomen on CT scans. Laparoscopic resection was performed to allow for a definitive diagnosis to be made and to treat the lesion. The tumor was located in the transverse mesocolon, and there was no communication between the lesion and the ascending or transverse colon. Spindle‐shaped tumor cells were arranged in palisades. The number of mitotic figures was only 1/50 HPF. The tumor was weakly positive for KIT and negative for CD34. From these findings, a diagnosis of extra‐gastrointestinal stromal tumor originating in the transverse mesocolon was made.
Laboratory Diagnosis of Some Virus Infections of the Upper Respiratory Tract of the Horse
Authors: BURROWS R.
Published: April 2010

Laboratory Diagnosis of Some Virus Infections of the Upper Respiratory Tract of the Horse
Urticaria, Blue Nose and Purpura Haemorrhagica in Horses
Authors: GREATOREX J. C.
Published: April 2010

The etiological factors, clinical manifestations and treatment of urticaria, blue nose and purpura haem‐orrhagica in the horse are discussed.

Les facteurs étiologiques, les manifestations cliniques puis le traitement de l'urticaire, du “blue nose” et du purpura hémorragique du Cheval sont étudiés.

Der Artikel diskutiert die aetiologischen Faktoren, die klinischen Manifestationen, die Behandlung von Urticaria, “bene nose” und Morbus maculosus beim Pferd.
The Anticoagulant Effect of Arvin on Horse Blood
Authors: ARCHER R. K. , CLOSE MARGARET , ASHFORD A.
Published: April 2010

A fraction derived from the venom of the Malayan pit viper has been shown to be safe and effective as an anticoagulant in ponies. It may well prove exceedingly effective as a therapeutic agent in selected instances of thrombosis and the authors would welcome an opportunity to co‐operate in the treatment and management of suitable cases.

Une fraction extraite du venin d'un Serpent de Malaise, (espèce appartenant aux Crotalinés) s'est révèlée etre un anticoagulant efficace et sans danger dans son emploi sur des poneys.

Il se pourrait qu'il s'agisse là d'un excellent agent thérapeutique à utiliser dans certains cas de thrombose. Aussi les auteurs seraient ils heureux d'apporter leur expérience aux confrères désirant utiliser cette thérapeutique.

Eine Komponente des Giftes einer malayischen Viper hat sich als zuverlässiges, ungefährliches und wirksames Anticoagulans bei Ponies bewährt. Es ist sehr wohl möglich, dass das Präparat sich bei ausgewählten Fällen von Thrombosen als äusserst wirksames Therapeutikum erweisen könnte. Die Autoren sind gerne bereit an der Behandlung und der Pflege geeigneter Fälle mitzuarbeiten.
I. Cellular Aspects of Blood
Authors: ARCHER R. K.
Published: April 2010

Blood is an organ and should be looked at as a whole in cases of disease. Changes in red cells are seen so that in anaemia there are fewer: in haemoconcentration more. The knowledge of size and haemoglobin content of the cells aids in defining any anaemia. Changes in the number and type of leucocytes are of great importance and can be used to assess the extent and success of the response of the body to injury or insult. Examination of the bone marrow can give information which is a valuable extension of blood tests because it gives a measure of the state of production of the various blood cells which develop there.

Le sang est un organe et doit etre considèré comme tel et comme un tout dans les cas de maladie.

Des changements dans la proportion des hématies se produisent: leur nombre décroit lors d'anémie, leur nombre s'accroit lors d'hémoconcentration.

Les variations dans le nombre et dans la répartition des leucocytes suivant différents types ont une grande importance et peuvent servir à apprécier l'intensité et le succès des défenses de l'organisme contre une agression.

L'examen de la moelle osseuse peut donner des informations qui prolongent celles des examens sanguins par ce qu'on peut de cette façon apprécier le mode de production des éléments figurés du sang.

Blut ist ein Organ und sollte bei Krankheitszuständen immer als Ganzes berücksichtigt werden. Bei Anaemie findet sich eine Verminderung der Erythrocytenzahl, bei Haemokonzentrationeine Vermehrung. Die Kenntnis der Grösse und des Haemoglobingehaltes der Erythrocyten ist nützlich für die Charakterisierung der Anaemien. Veränderungen der Leucocytenzahl sind von grossem Interesse, umdie Reaktiondes Organismusauf irgendwelche Noxen zu verfolgen. Die Untersuchung des Knochenmarks ist eine wertvolle Ergänzung der Blutuntersuchungen, weil damit die Produktion der verschiedenen Blutzellen, die sich im Knochenmark entwickeln, beurteilt werden kann.

SUMARIO

La sangre es un órgano y debería ser observada en todos los casos de enfermedad. Los cambios en los glóbulos rojos son vistos como tal en la anemia, hay más; en la hemococentración. El conocimiento del tamaño y concentración de hemoglobina de los glóbulos ayuda a definir cualquier anemia. Cambio en el número y tipo de leucocitos son de gran importancia y pueden ser utilizados para asistir en la extensión y resultado de la respuesta corporal a los estímulos de la lesión. El éxamen de la médula ósea puede dar información que es válida en los exámenes de sangre porque da la medida del estado de la producción de las variadas células sanguíneas que se dearrollan en ese lugar.
A Veterinarian's Approach to Stud Farm Nutrition
Authors: SIPPEL WILLIAM L.
Published: April 2010

An approach to stud farm management, utilizing the veterinarian as a member of an advisory team in addition to our traditional clinical medicine role is discussed. Requirements for this role by the veterinarian are enumerated and a list of the services provided is given.

Nutrition of horses is discussed from the standpoint of the Ca/P ratio of the diet and of mineral requirements as determined by hair analysis. An experience with iodide goitre is described, while recent reports on the production of B vitamins by the horse and the effect of vitamins A and E on fertility are presented.

On envisage le role que peut jouer le Vétérinaire dans l'organisation d'un Haras, au titre de conseiller technique s'ajoutant à l'activité traditionnelle du médecin clinicien.

Les qualifications exigibles du Vétérinaire pour remplir cette tache et la liste des services qu'il peut ainsi rendre sont passées en revue.

L'alimentation du Cheval est étudiée en fonction du rapport phospho‐calcique du régime et des exigences minérales définies par l'analyse des poils et des crins.

Une observation est rapportée illustrant les relations entre l'apparition du goitre et l'apport d'iode.

Suivent des commentaires sur la synthèse des Vitamines B par le Cheval et sur les effets des Vitamines A et E sur la fécondité.

Enfin une méthode d'analyse des rations alimentaires est décrite.

Die Führung von Gestüten mit einem Tierarzt als Berater, zusätzlich zu seiner traditionellen tierärztlichen Tätigkeit, wird beschrieben. Die Anforderungen für eine derartige Tätigkeit werden aufgeführt, und eine Liste der betreffenden Dienstleistungen wird aufgestellt.

Der Autor diskutiert die Ernährung des Pferdes besonders in Bezug auf das Verhältnis Calcium: Phosphor und auf den Bedarf an Mineralstoffen, wie er aus Haaranalysen abgeleitet werden kann. Ein Auftreten von jod‐induziertem Kropf wird beschrieben.

Neuere Erkenntnisse über die Produktion von B‐Vitaminen und über die Wirkung von Vitamin A und E auf die Fruchtbarkeit werden angegeben. Der Autor beschreibt auch eine Methode zur Futteranalyse.

SUMARIO

Se discute un acercamiento al manejo de la granja de cría utilizando al Veterinario como miembro del equipo consejero, en añadidura de nuestro tradicional papel de medicina clínica. Son enumerados los requisitos para llenar este puesto por el Veterinario. Se da la lista de servicios proveídos bajo este arreglo.

Es discutida la alimentación de los caballos desde el punto de vista de la relación calcio‐fosforo de la dieta mineral y los necesidades de ellos son determinados por análisis del pelo. Es descrita una experiencia con la papera del yodo.

Reportes recientes en la producción de la vitamina B en el caballo y los efectos de las vitaminas A y E en la fertilidad son presentados. Se describe una técnica para analizar la ración.
Atrial Fibrillation in the Horse
Authors: HOLMES J. R. , DARKE P. G. G. , ELSE R. W.
Published: April 2010

The paper describes clinical and ECG observations made on 27 cases of atrial fibrillation in the horse. The findings are discussed in relation to the nature of this arrhythmia.

L'article décrit 27 observations cliniques et électro‐cardiographiques de fibrillation auriculaire chez le Cheval.

Les constatations sont commentées en fonction de la nature de cette arythmie.

Der Verfasser beschreibt klinische und elektro‐cardiographische Beobachtungen bei 27 Fällen von Vorhof‐Flattern beim Pferd. Die Befunde werden in ihrer Abhängikeit vom Charakter dieser Arrhtyhmie diskutiert.

SUMARIO

Se describen observaciones clinicas y E.C.G., hechas en 27 casos de fibrilacion atrial en el caballo. Los resultados son discutidos en relacion a la naturaleza de estas arritmias.
Terminology in Equine Vectorcardiography
Authors: HOLMES J. R.
Published: April 2010

The paper describes a method of viewing planar vectorcardiograms in the horse and defines the constituent axis and their polarity, the terminology of the three planes and the method of measuring vector angles. The system differs slightly from that used in man and the justification for this is considered to be the different approach to the examination of the heart of the standing quadruped and the anatomical differences in heart position within the thorax compared with the human.

L'article décrit une méthode pour étudier la projection sur un plan du Vectocardiogramme équin, définit les axes principaux et leur polarité, indique la terminologie des trois plans et la méthode de mesure des trois angles vectoriels.

La technique employée différe légèrement de celle employée pour l'Homme. Ceci parait du au fait que le coeur d'un quadrupède en station debout est envisagé sous des angles différents de ceux utilisés pour l'Homme, et à des différences anatomiques de position à l'intérieur du thorax.

Der Artikel beschreibt eine Methode der Beurteilung des planaren Vektorcardiogrammes beim Pferd, definiert die zu wählenden Achsen und ihre Polarität, die Terminologie der drei Ebenen und die Messung der Vektorwinkel. Das System unterscheidet sich etwas von dem in der Humanmedizin üblichen. Die Berechtigung für diese Abweichung wird in der andersartigen Untersuchungsmethode beim stehenden Vierfüssler und in den anatomischen Unterschieden bezüglich Herzlage im Thorax gesehen.

SUMARIO

El trabajo describe un método de visualización planar de los vectocardiogramas en el caballo define las terminales y su polaridad, la terminologia de los 3 planos y el método de valorar los ángulos “del vector”. El sistema difiere ligeramente de su uso en el hombre y la justificación por esto es considerada a ser diferente la proximidad del examén del corazón el cuadrupero parado y las diferencias anatómicas de la posición del corazón en el torax es comparado con el del humano.