bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Trajectory and determinants of nutritional health in older patients during and six‐month post‐hospitalisation
Authors: Chen Cheryl C‐H , Tang Siew T , Wang Charlotte , Huang Guan‐Hua
Published: September 2009

Aim.  The aim of this study was to characterise the trajectory and to identify determinants of nutritional health over time in a sample of older hospitalised patients, using the Generalized Estimating Equation.

Background.  Nutritional health deteriorates and may fluctuate over time during and post‐hospitalisation. To develop a target intervention it is essential that we first have a clear picture of how the nutrition changes and examine the determinants of nutritional health during and post‐hospitalisation.

Design.  A prospective cohort study was conducted on 306 older hospitalised patients aged 65 years and older.

Methods.  Subjects were recruited from five surgical and medical wards at a tertiary medical center in northern Taiwan and assessed at four points in time: within 48 hours after admission, before discharge and 3–6 months post‐discharge.

Results.  Nutritional health fluctuated significantly over time. The curve dropped during hospitalisation, returned at three months and rose slightly at six months post hospitalisation. After controlling for length of stay and surgical treatment, patients showed decreased cognitive capacity, worsening oral health, increased use of medications, increased functional limitations and raised depressive symptoms, all of which affects their nutritional health over time. The extent of functional status impacting on nutrition varies at different points in time while the predictability of other determinants remained stable.

Conclusion.  The trajectory of nutritional health is a reflection of the patients’ cognitive status, oral health, medication taken, functional status and depressive symptoms. The findings of our study should provide guidance in the development of intervention for the nutritional health of older patients during inpatient as well as transitional care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Multi‐faceted packages of interventions targeting a range of determinants for managing undernutrition and subsequent decline during and post‐hospitalisation need to be tested.
A review of nutrition in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Davidson Z. E. , Truby H.
Published: September 2009

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a recessive X linked genetic disorder characterised by progressive muscle weakness and reduced muscle tone. Affecting only boys, it limits life expectancy to approximately 20 years. A literature review was conducted using MEDLINE and the Cochrane Library, employing the term ‘Duchenne muscular dystrophy’. A total of 1491 articles in English were recovered. These papers were searched thematically under the headings: body composition (n = 10), energy expenditure (n = 10), nutrition (n = 6), corticosteroid therapy (n = 55) and gene therapy (n = 199). Key dietetic practice points were identified relevant to nutritional management. Papers supporting these key themes were assigned a level of evidence and grade of recommendation. There is limited high‐quality evidence to guide the nutritional management of boys with DMD. Currently, the majority of evidence is based on expert opinion and clinical expertise. Delayed growth, short stature, muscle wasting and increased fat mass are characteristics of DMD and impact on nutritional status and energy requirements. The early introduction of steroids has altered the natural history of the disease, but can exacerbate weight gain in a population already susceptible to obesity. Prior to commencing steroids, anticipatory guidance for weight management should be provided. Malnutrition is a feature of end stage disease requiring a multidisciplinary approach, such as texture modification and supplemental feeding. Micronutrient requirements are yet to be determined but, as a result of corticosteroid treatment, vitamin D and calcium should be supplemented. Some evidence exists supporting supplementation with creatine monohydrate to improve muscle strength. More research is needed to provide a higher quality of evidence for dietitians working within this area.
The use of oral nutritional supplements in an Irish community setting
Authors: Kennelly S. , Kennedy N. P. , Flanagan Rughoobur G. , Glennon Slattery C. , Sugrue S.
Published: September 2009

Background:  The frequency of oral nutritional supplement (ONS) prescribing has been increasing steadily in the Republic of Ireland (ROI). Available evidence indicates that health professionals in the community setting in the ROI have a poor level of knowledge about ONS. The objectives of the present study were to investigate ONS prescribing practices and to identify the types of patient who were prescribed these products.

Methods:  Ten of 17 eligible general practitioners were recruited and asked to refer all patients (aged > 16 years) who were prescribed ONS during a 3‐month period. Patients were interviewed by a community dietitian, using a questionnaire incorporating the Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool (MUST). ONS prescriptions were judged either to fulfil or not to fulfil a set of criteria developed for ONS prescribing in the community.

Results:  The majority of patients were female (62/78). Their mean (SD) age was 79 (10.5) years. According to MUST criteria, 31 of 78 patients were at ‘low risk’, 18 of 78 were at ‘medium risk’ and 29 of 78 were at ‘high risk’ of malnutrition. Less than half of the patients (36/78) had a body mass index of < 20 kg m−2. Only 21 of 78 patients reported having received dietary advice in addition to their ONS prescription. Almost one‐third (31%) of ONS prescriptions did not fulfil the criteria. Social factors, such as living alone, and difficulties with cooking and shopping, influenced the need for ONS in almost 70% of cases.

Conclusions:  ONS were prescribed in accordance with the prescribing criteria in the majority of cases; however, some patients who were prescribed ONS were not ‘at risk’ of malnutrition. Social circumstances played an important part in determining the need for ONS prescriptions.
Relationship of the dietary phytochemical index to weight gain, oxidative stress and inflammation in overweight young adults
Authors: Vincent H. K. , Bourguignon C. M. , Taylor A. G.
Published: September 2009

Background: Phytochemicals are bioactive nutrients that help reduce disease risk. A high intake of these compounds is important for optimal health and prevention of disease, but quantification of these nutrientsin vivois costly and time consuming. The present examined whether an alternative, simple ‘phytochemical index’ (PI) ratio calculation (PI = the ratio of the energy from high‐nutrient phytochemical‐rich foods to overall daily energy consumed [kJ phytochemical rich foods/total kJ consumed]) was related to several precursors of future disease: annual weight gain, adiposity, oxidative stress and inflammation.

Methods: This was a cross‐sectional, quantitative, descriptive study (n = 54, age range 18–30 years). Participants were stratified into normal weight and overweight groups. Three‐day dietary records were analysed for food items, food groups, energy and the PI score at repeated time points. Blood plasma samples were analysed by colorimetric or an enzyme‐linked immunoabsorbent assay for cholesterol subfractions, glycated haemoglobin, total antioxidant status, lipid hydroperoxides, cytokines (interleukins‐1β and ‐6) and C‐reactive protein).

Results: PI values were higher in the overweight‐obese group. Correlation values between the PI score and body mass index, waist circumference, waist‐to‐hip ratio and plasma oxidative stress were significant. The PI score did not correlate with any cytokine levels. The PI score was a significant contributor to yearly weight gain.

Conclusions: The PI is inversely related to adiposity and oxidative stress in healthy young adults, and is responsive to body weight changes. This simple, easy to administer index might be useful as a dietary target for appropriate proportion consumption of nutrient‐rich foods in weight reduction or management programmes.
Estimating food intakes in Australia: validation of the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) food frequency questionnaire against weighed dietary intakes
Authors: Lassale C. , Guilbert C. , Keogh J. , Syrette J. , Lange K. , Cox D. N.
Published: September 2009

Background:  There is a dearth of knowledge about the foods that Australian adults eat and a need for a flexible, easy‐to‐use tool that can estimate usual dietary intakes. The present study was to validate a commonly used Australian Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) food‐frequency questionnaire (C‐FFQ) against two 4‐day weighed food records (WFR), as the reference method.

Methods:  The C‐FFQ, as the test item, was administrated before the WFR. Two 4‐day WFR were administrated 4 weeks apart. Under‐reporting was established using specific cut‐off limits and estimated basal metabolic rate. Seventy‐four women, aged 31–60 years, were enrolled from a free‐living community setting.

Results:  After exclusion for under‐reporting, the final sample comprised 62 individuals. Correlations between protein intake from the WFR and urinary urea were significant. Overall agreement between FFQ and WFR was shown by ‘levels of agreement’ (LOA) and least products regressions. There was presence of fixed and proportional bias for almost half the nutrients, including energy, protein, fat and carbohydrates. For most of the nutrients that did not present bias, the LOA were 50–200%. Agreement was demonstrated for percentage dietary energy protein and fat; carbohydrate; and absolute amounts of thiamine, riboflavin, magnesium and iron. However, relative intake agreement was fair to moderate, with approximately 70% of (selected) nutrients exact or within ±1 quintile difference.

Conclusion:  The C‐FFQ is reasonable at measuring percentage energy from macronutrients and some micronutrients, and comprises a valuable tool for ranking intakes by quintiles; however, it is poor at measuring many absolute nutrient intakes relative to WFR.
Fibre content of enteral feeds for the older child
Authors: Evans S. , Daly A. , Davies P. , MacDonald A.
Published: September 2009

Background:  There is currently a lack of clinical data on fibre requirements in UK children. Subsequently, the ideal fibre profile for enteral formulae designed to meet the requirements of older children is unknown. The present study aimed to investigate the effect of fibre supplementation on gastrointestinal function of children aged 7–12 years (or weight 21–45 kg) receiving an age‐specific high‐energy enteral feed.

Methods:  In this double‐blind randomised crossover study, 25 home enterally tube‐fed children with a range of medical conditions (including cystic fibrosis, neurological conditions, liver transplant and bone marrow transplant) were given a 1.5 kcal mL−1 formula with or without added dietary fibre (1.13 g per 100 mL). Each formula was taken for 6 weeks, followed by 6 months on the second randomly assigned formula. Anthropometry, blood biochemistry, stool characteristics, tolerance and oral dietary intake were assessed.

Results:  Despite a higher median fibre intake on the fibre‐containing formula (84% versus 26% of recommended intake; P = 0.003), most children did not meet existing international recommendations for fibre as a result of small feed volumes (median 800 mL day−1; 9 g fibre day−1). There was some evidence of reduced constipation, laxative reliance and abdominal pain on the fibre‐containing formula.

Conclusions:  Given the poor fibre intakes and absence of adverse effects, the use of fibre‐containing formulae should become standard practice for the majority of children on enteral feeds. Larger trials in children are required to further evaluate the effect of amount and blend of fibre in enteral formulae for older children. However, it is likely that current formulae require higher levels of fibre.
A method of PSF generation for 3D brightfield deconvolution
Authors: TADROUS P.J.
Published: September 2009

This paper addresses the problem of 3D deconvolution of through focus widefield microscope datasets (Z‐stacks). One of the most difficult stages in brightfield deconvolution is finding the point spread function. A theoretically calculated point spread function (called a ‘synthetic PSF’ in this paper) requires foreknowledge of many system parameters and still gives only approximate results. A point spread function measured from a sub‐resolution bead suffers from low signal‐to‐noise ratio, compounded in the brightfield setting (by contrast to fluorescence) by absorptive, refractive and dispersal effects. This paper describes a method of point spread function estimation based on measurements of aZ‐stack through a thin sample. ThisZ‐stack is deconvolved by an idealized point spread function derived from the sameZ‐stack to yield a point spread function of high signal‐to‐noise ratio that is also inherently tailored to the imaging system. The theory is validated by a practical experiment comparing the non‐blind 3D deconvolution of the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaewith the point spread function generated using the method presented in this paper (called the ‘extracted PSF’) to a synthetic point spread function. Restoration of both high‐ and low‐contrast brightfield structures is achieved with fewer artefacts using the extracted point spread function obtained with this method. Furthermore the deconvolution progresses further (more iterations are allowed before the error function reaches its nadir) with the extracted point spread function compared to the synthetic point spread function indicating that the extracted point spread function is a better fit to the brightfield deconvolution model than the synthetic point spread function.
Clinical stem cell therapies for severe autoimmune diseases
Authors: Snowden J. A. , Martin‐Rendon E. , Watt S. M.
Published: September 2009

summary.

Severe autoimmune diseases (ADs) are a major source of disability and reduced quality of life and may result in shortened life expectancy, particularly in treatment‐resistant patients. For several decades, allogeneic and autologous haematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) has been the focus of scientific investigation as a potential means of delivering ‘one‐off’ intensive treatment in severe ADs. Improvements in the clinical safety of HCST were followed by its increasing use in recent years as an experimental treatment for severe and resistant ADs. European and North American registries have accumulated between one and two thousand procedures. Retrospective analyses and prospective studies have demonstrated the feasibility, safety and initial efficacy data in various ADs. Profound cell biological changes induced by HSCT leading to stabilization or reversal of organ damage have been characterized. These have also shed light on basic disease mechanisms and support investigation of more specific cellular therapy in ADs. There is clear potential for harnessing a profound immunological effect through HSCT. However, there is a need for an ongoing balance against evolving non‐transplant treatments for ADs. Ideally, these issues should be resolved in phase III studies, in which HSCT approaches are compared with the best comparator.
Retrospective surveillance of HIV prevalence in blood donors can help in the selection of the best social group for blood donation in Mali
Authors: Tounkara A. , Diakite M. , Noumsi G. T. , Sarro Y. D. S. , Siddiqui S. , Parta M.
Published: September 2009

summary.

The National Centre for Blood Transfusion, Bamako, Mali has collected data that characterizes trend in HIV prevalence over 10 years by gender, age, occupation, marital status and donor category. These data help to describe national HIV prevalence and assist in formulating blood donation policies. Donations from 1993 to 2002 were categorized by donor age (decade), occupation (student, military and other), marital status (single, married and other), gender and donor status (volunteer, occasional and family). Comparisons were made using conservative estimates of donation frequency/donor category. Donations increased by more than 400%. By 1999, increased HIV prevalence in donations from women was consistently present. Donations from the age group of 30–39 years showed an increased prevalence beginning in 2000, which by 2002 was almost 10 times greater than in the low‐prevalence (<20 years) group (5.9 vs. 0.6%). By 2000, both categories ‐ students and military were less likely to be HIV positive than those from other occupational categories, and donations from married persons were less likely to be HIV positive by 1997. The highest prevalence was observed in the ‘occasional’ donor category, which increased to >14% by 2001; volunteer donation HIV positive peaked at 2.3% in 1999. HIV prevalence in blood donations in Bamako, Mali, demonstrates important trends from 1993 to 2002. The prevalence of > 14% in donations from occasional donors and significant trends by decade, gender, marital status and occupation argue for increased analysis of the blood donor population to improve blood safety and to understand the demographics of HIV infection in Mali.
Two novel null alleles of the KEL gene detected in two Chinese women with the Knull phenotype
Authors: Yang Ying , Wang LingLing , Wang Chen , Chen HePing , Guo ZhongHui , Zhang YuXian , Zhu ZiYan
Published: September 2009

summary.

In screening 87665 unrelated healthy blood donors in China, serology studies resulted in the detection of two K0 probands, both female. To explore the molecular basis of the Knull phenotype in the Chinese population, genomic DNA, total RNA, and reticulocyte RNA were subsequently prepared from the two probands, five family members of proband 1, four unrelated normal controls, and one unrelated KEL1 control. Nucleic acids were analyzed for the KEL gene by DNA and RNA sequencing, while antigens were analyzed by flow cytometry with BRIC18, BRIC68, anti‐k, and anti‐Kpb. Two novel Knull alleles were identified in both probands: in exon 3, 185insT (Ser62Phe and a premature stop codon in exon 4, GenBank accession number, EF208900), and in exon 7, 715G>T (Glu239Stop, GenBank accession number EF208901). Alternative splicing patterns were observed in RNA obtained from whole blood versus from a reticulocyte fraction. Our study identified these two novel Knull alleles resulting in the Knull phenotype, the frequency of the Knull phenotype amongst Chinese mainlanders is only 0.00228%.
Factors associated with death among HIV‐uninfected TB patients in Thailand, 2004–2006
Authors: Amnuaiphon Waraya , Anuwatnonthakate Amornrat , Nuyongphak Prungsri , Sinthuwatanawibool Chalinthorn , Rujiwongsakorn Sadudee , Nakara Prapa , Komsakorn Sitijate , Wattanaamornkiet Wanpen , Moolphate Saiyud , Chiengsorn Navarat , Kaewsaard Samroui , Nateniyom Sriprapa , Varma Jay K.
Published: September 2009

Objectives  In countries with both TB and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) epidemics, HIV is known to be the most powerful risk factor for death during tuberculosis (TB) treatment. Few recent studies have evaluated risk factors for death among HIV‐uninfected TB patients in these countries. We analysed data from a multi‐province demonstration project in Thailand to answer this question.

Method  We prospectively collected data from HIV‐uninfected TB patients treated for TB in four provinces and the national infectious diseases hospital in Thailand from 2004–2006. Standard WHO definitions were used to classify treatment outcomes. We used log‐binomial multivariate regression to calculate adjusted relative risk (aRR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for factors associated with death.

Results  Of 5318 cases, 441 (8%) died during TB treatment. The mean age was 47 years (range 8 months–97 years). Multidrug‐resistant (MDR)‐TB was diagnosed in 62 (1%). In multivariate analysis, patients older than 44 years were significantly more likely to die than patients aged 15–44 years [age 45–64, aRR 2.9 (CI 2.2–3.8)] [age > 64 years, aRR 5.0 (CI 3.9–6.6)]. Other independent risk factors for death included Thai nationality [aRR 3.9 (CI 1.6–9.5)], MDR‐TB [aRR 2.8 (CI 1.7–4.8)], not being married [aRR 1.4 (CI 1.2–1.7)], and living in Chiang Rai province [aRR 2.7 (CI 1.7–4.4)].

Conclusions  The death rate was high among HIV‐uninfected TB patients in Thailand. Efforts to improve TB diagnosis and treatment in the elderly and to improve MDR‐TB treatment may help reduce mortality.
Underlying mechanism of portal hypertensive gastropathy in cirrhosis: A hemodynamic and morphological approach
Authors: Curvêlo Lílian Amorim , Brabosa Walnei , Rhor Rachel , Lanzoni Valéria , Parise Edison Roberto , Ferrari Angelo Paulo , Kondo Mario
Published: September 2009

Background and Aim:  Portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) is an important cause of bleeding in patients with cirrhosis associated with portal hypertension. Histologically, the condition is characterized by dilation of the mucosal and submucosal vessels of the stomach; however, its mechanisms remain unclear. The aim of the present cross‐sectional study was to evaluate the role of portal and systemic hemodynamic features, humoral factors and hepatocellular function in the development and severity of PHG in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods:  Forty‐six patients with cirrhosis of different etiologies underwent endoscopy. Portal hypertension was evaluated by hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG). The gastric mucosa was analyzed using two diagnostic methods: endoscopy according to the McCormack criteria and histological by histomorphometric analysis.

Results:  The prevalence of PHG according to the endoscopic and histomorphometric methods was 93.4% and 76.1%, respectively. There were no statistically significant differences in HVPG measurements between the patients with mild (16.0 ± 5.9 mmHg) and severe PHG (16.9 ± 6.5 mmHg; P = 0.80) or between patients who did not have (15.2 ± 8.0 mmHg) and those who had PHG (16.3 ± 5.7 mmHg). No correlation was found between the presence or severity of PHG and systemic vascular resistance index (P = 0.53 and 0.34, respectively), Child–Pugh classification (P = 0.73 and 0.78, respectively) or glucagon levels (P = 0.59 and 0.62, respectively).

Conclusions:  The present data show no correlation between the presence or the severity of PHG and portal pressure, Child–Pugh classification or systemic hemodynamics, suggesting that other factors may be involved in the physiopathology of PHG, such as local gastric mucosal factors or other underlying factors.
Effect of laparoscopic splenectomy on portal hypertensive gastropathy in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension
Authors: Anegawa Go , Kawanaka Hirofumi , Uehara Hideo , Akahoshi Tomohiko , Konishi Kozo , Yoshida Daisuke , Kinjo Nao , Hashimoto Naotaka , Tomikawa Morimasa , Hashizume Makoto , Maehara Yoshihiko
Published: September 2009

Aim:  This study investigated the relationship between portal hypertensive gastropathy (PHG) and splenomegaly, and the effect of laparoscopic splenectomy on PHG in cirrhotic patients with portal hypertension.

Methods:  Seventy patients with liver cirrhosis and portal hypertension were prospectively studied. Indication for laparoscopic splenectomy was bleeding tendency in 10 patients, induction of interferon in 45, treatment of hepatocellular carcinoma in seven, and treatment for endoscopic injection sclerotherapy‐resistant esophagogastric varices in eight. The severity of PHG was classified into none, mild, or severe according to the classification by McCormack et al. The severity of liver disease was classified using the Child–Pugh score. All patients underwent upper gastrointestinal endoscopy before and 1 month after the operation.

Results:  The prevalence of PHG was significantly correlated with the severity of liver disease using the Child–Pugh score. The severity of PHG was significantly correlated with the resected spleen volume. One month after the operation, PHG was improved in 16 of 17 patients with severe PHG and in 12 of 32 with mild PHG. The Child–Pugh score showed a significant improvement (6.8 ± 1.4 to 6.2 ± 1.2) at 3 months after laparoscopic splenectomy (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  PHG may be associated with splenomegaly, and laparoscopic splenectomy may have a beneficial effect on PHG, at least for a short time.
Inflammatory pseudotumors of the liver: Experience of a specialist surgical unit
Authors: Milias Konstantinos , Madhavan Krishna K , Bellamy Christopher , Garden Olivier J , Parks Rowan W
Published: September 2009

Background and Aim:  To present the experience in management of inflammatory liver pseudotumors from a specialist surgical unit and to review the medical literature on this rare manifestation.

Methods:  Between 1995 and 2008, four patients were identified with this type of tumor from a total of 108 resected benign liver lesions at the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, Scotland UK. Two patients presented with liver abscesses, one with liver cystadenoma, and one with hilar cholangiocarcinoma. All four underwent some type of hepatectomy. We report these cases and review the literature.

Results:  All four patients survived the operation with some morbidity.

Conclusions:  Inflammatory liver pseudotumors are a difficult entity to identify. Resection should be considered because it may be impossible to rule out malignancy by other means.
Near‐ground solar radiation along the grassland–forest continuum: Tall‐tree canopy architecture imposes only muted trends and heterogeneity
Authors: BRESHEARS DAVID D. , LUDWIG JOHN A.
Published: September 2009

Solar radiation directly and indirectly drives a variety of ecosystem processes. Our aim was to evaluate how tree canopy architecture affects near‐ground, incoming solar radiation along gradients of increasing tree cover, referred to as the grassland–forest continuum. We evaluated a common type of canopy architecture: tall trees that generally have their lowest level of foliage high above, rather than close to the ground as is often the case for shorter trees. We used hemispherical photographs to estimate near‐ground solar radiation using the metric of Direct Site Factor (DSF) on four sites in north Queensland, Australia that formed a grassland–forest continuum with tree canopy cover ranging from 0% to 71%. Three of the four sites had tall Eucalyptus trees with foliage several metres above the ground. We found that: (i) mean DSF exceeded >70% of the potential maximum for all sites, including the site with highest canopy cover; (ii) DSF variance was not highly sensitive to canopy coverage; and (iii) mean DSF for canopy locations beneath trees was not significantly lower than for adjacent intercanopy locations. Simulations that hypothetically placed Australian sites with tall tree canopies at other latitude–longitude locations demonstrated that differences in DSF were mostly due to canopy architecture, not specific site location effects. Our findings suggest that tall trees that have their lowest foliage many metres above the ground and have lower foliar density only weakly affect patterns of near‐ground solar radiation along the grassland–forest continuum. This markedly contrasts with the strong effect that shorter trees with foliage near the ground have on near‐ground solar radiation patterns along the continuum. This consequence of differential tree canopy architecture will fundamentally affect other ecosystem properties and may explain differential emphases that have been placed on canopy–intercanopy heterogeneity in diverse global ecosystem types that lie within the grassland–forest continuum.
Use of a δ13C–δ15N relationship to determine animal trophic positions in a tropical Australian estuarine wetland
Authors: ABRANTES KÁTYA , SHEAVES MARCUS
Published: September 2009

Stable isotope composition of organisms from different trophic groups collected from a semi‐isolated wetland pool in the Ross River estuary, northern Australia, was analysed to determine if there was a consistent relationship between δ13C, δ15N and trophic level that could be used to assign trophic positions. A strong linear negative relationship between δ13C and δ15N was detected for the three trophic levels considered (primary producers, primary consumers and secondary consumers). This relationship was consistent among trophic levels, differing only in height, that is, on δ15N values, which indicate trophic positions. A difference of 3.6–3.8‰ between trophic levels was present, suggesting a δ15N fractionation of approximately 3.7‰, a value slightly higher than the commonly assumed δ15N fractionation of approximately 3.4‰. The relationship between δ13C and δ15N was similar for invertebrate and fish primary consumers, indicating similar δ15N trophic fractionation for both groups, meaning trophic positions and trophic length could be reliably calculated based on either invertebrates or fish.
Non‐symbiotic nitrogen fixation during leaf litter decomposition in an old‐growth temperate rain forest of Chiloé Island, southern Chile: Effects of singleversusmixed species litter
Authors: PÉREZ CECILIA A. , CARMONA MARTÍN R. , ARMESTO JUAN J.
Published: September 2009

Heterotrophic nitrogen fixation is a key ecosystem process in unpolluted, temperate old‐growth forests of southern South America as a source of new nitrogen to ecosystems. Decomposing leaf litter is an energy‐rich substrate that favours the occurrence of this energy demanding process. Following the niche ‘complementarity hypothesis’, we expected that decomposing leaf litter of a single tree species would support lower rates of non‐symbiotic N fixation than mixed species litter taken from the forest floor. To test this hypothesis we measured acetylene reduction activity in the decomposing monospecific litter of three evergreen tree species (litter C/N ratios, 50–79) in an old‐growth rain forest of Chiloé Island, southern Chile. Results showed a significant effect of species and month (anova, Tukey's test,P < 0.05) on decomposition and acetylene reduction rates (ARR), and a species effect on C/N ratios and initial % N of decomposing leaf litter. The lowest litter quality was that ofNothofagus nitida(C/N ratio = 78.7, lignin % = 59.27 ± 4.09), which resulted in higher rates of acetylene reduction activity (mean = 34.09 ± SE = 10.34 nmol h−1 g−1) and a higher decomposition rate (k = 0.47) thanPodocarpus nubigena(C/N = 54.4, lignin % = 40.31 ± 6.86, Mean ARR = 4.11 ± 0.71 nmol h−1 g−1,k = 0.29), andDrimys winteri(C/N = 50.6, lignin % = 45.49 ± 6.28, ARR = 10.2 ± 4.01 nmol h−1 g−1,k = 0.29), and mixed species litter (C/N = 60.7, ARR = 8.89 ± 2.13 nmol h−1g−1). We interpret these results as follows: in N‐poor litter and high lignin content of leaves (e.g.N. nitida) free‐living N fixers would be at competitive advantage over non‐fixers, thereby becoming more active. Lower ARR in mixed litter can be a consequence of a lower litter C/N ratio compared with single species litter. We also found a strong coupling betweenin situacetylene reduction and net N mineralization in surface soils, suggesting that as soon N is fixed by diazotroph bacteria it may be immediately incorporated into mineral soil by N mineralizers, thus reducing N immobilization.
Microhabitat relationships among five lizard species associated with granite outcrops in fragmented agricultural landscapes of south‐eastern Australia
Authors: MICHAEL DAMIAN R. , CUNNINGHAM ROSS B. , LINDENMAYER DAVID B.
Published: September 2009

A fundamental part of developing effective biodiversity conservation is to understand what factors affect the distribution and abundance of particular species. However, there is a paucity of data on ecological requirements and habitat relationships for many species, especially for groups such as reptiles. Furthermore, it is not clear whether habitat relationships for particular species in a given environment are transferable to other environments within their geographical range. This has implications for the type of ‘landscape model’ used to guide management decisions in different environments worldwide. To test the hypothesis that species‐specific habitat relationships are transferable to other environments, we present microhabitat models for five common lizard species from a poorly studied habitat – insular granite outcrops, and then compared these relationships with studies from other environments in south‐eastern Australia. We recorded twelve species from five families, representing 699 individuals, from 44 outcrops in the south‐west slopes of New South Wales. Five lizard species were abundant and accounted for 95% of all observations: Egernia striolata, Ctenotus robustus, Cryptoblepharus carnabyi, Morethia boulengeri and Carlia tetradactyla (Scincidae). Linear regression modelling revealed suites of different variables related to the abundance patterns of individual species, some of which were broadly congruent with those measured for each species in other environments. However, additional variables, particular to rocky environments, were found to relate to reptile abundance in this environment. This finding means that species' habitat relationships in one habitat may not be readily transferable to other environments, even those relatively close by. Based on these data, management decisions targeting reptile conservation in agricultural landscapes, which contain rocky outcrops, will be best guided by landscape models that not only recognize gradients in habitat suitability, but are also flexible enough to incorporate intraspecies habitat variability.
Association between the Trail Making Test and physical performance in elderly Japanese
Authors: Hirota Chika , Watanabe Misuzu , Sun Wei , Tanimoto Yoshimi , Kono Rei , Takasaki Kyosuke , Kono Koichi
Published: September 2009

Aim:  The Trail Making Test (TMT) is used in Western countries as an indicator of executive function, but there is little information regarding its use in Japan. Our previous initial study showed that the TMT was significantly associated with mobility‐related functions among elderly Japanese living in the community and in this study, we increased the number of participants to clarify that result.

Methods:  The TMT, comprised of two parts (part A and part B), was administered to 493 subjects aged 65 years or older (164 men, 329 women). Our assessment used the time difference (ΔTMT) between parts B and A, and eight physical performance indicators: four of preventive care (usual walking speed, timed Up & Go [TUG], one‐leg standing balance and handgrip strength) and four movement parameters (maximum walking speed, dual‐task TUG, stair climbing and obstacle‐negotiating gait).

Results:  The median ΔTMT score was 64.01 s for men and 65.56 s for women. The ΔTMT score increased with age, and there was no difference between sexes. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that a poor ΔTMT was related to low tertiles for all physical performances. It related to the intermediate tertile of TUG and maximum walking speed, dual‐task TUG, stair climbing and obstacle‐negotiating gait.

Conclusion:  The TMT reflects complex walking performance, so it can be a useful synthetic indicator for health programs promoting independence in elderly Japanese.
Inbred mouse strains differ in multiple hippocampal activity traits
Authors: Jansen R. , Linkenkaer‐Hansen K. , Heistek T. , Timmerman J. , Mansvelder Huibert D. , Brussaard Arjen B. , De Gunst M. , Van Ooyen A.
Published: September 2009

A major challenge in neuroscience is to identify genes that influence specific behaviors and to understand the intermediary neuronal mechanisms. One approach is to identify so‐called endophenotypes at different levels of neuronal organization from synapse to brain activity. An endophenotype is a quantitative trait that is closer to the gene action than behavior, and potentially a marker of neuronal mechanisms underlying behavior. Hippocampal activity and, in particular, hippocampal oscillations have been suggested to underlie various cognitive and motor functions. To identify quantitative traits that are potentially useful for identifying genes influencing hippocampal activity, we measured gamma oscillations and spontaneous activity in acute hippocampal slices from eight inbred mouse strains under three experimental conditions. We estimated the heritability of more than 200 quantitative traits derived from this activity. We observed significant differences between the different mouse strains, particularly in the amplitude of the activity and the correlation between activities in different hippocampal subregions. Interestingly, these traits had a low genetic correlation between the three experimental conditions, which suggests that different genetic components influence the activity in different conditions. Our findings show that several traits of hippocampal gamma oscillations and spontaneous activity are heritable and could thus be potentially useful in gene‐finding strategies based on endophenotypes.
Anopheles gambiae TRPA1 is a heat‐activated channel expressed in thermosensitive sensilla of female antennae
Authors: Wang Guirong , Qiu Yu T. , Lu Tan , Kwon Hyung‐Wook , Jason Pitts R. , Van Loon Joop J. A. , Takken Willem , Zwiebel Laurence J.
Published: September 2009

Heat sensitivity is a sensory modality that plays a critical role in close‐range host‐seeking behaviors of adult female Anopheles gambiae, the principal Afrotropical vector for human malaria. An essential step in this activity is the ability to discriminate and respond to increases in environmental temperature gradients through the process of peripheral thermoreception. Here, we report on the characterization of the anopheline homolog of the transient receptor potential (TRP) A1/ANKTM1 channel that is consistent with its role as a heat‐sensor in host‐seeking adult female mosquitoes. We identify a set of distal antennal sensory structures that specifically respond to temperature gradients and express AgTRPA1. Functional characterization of AgTRPA1 in Xenopus oocytes supports its role in the molecular transduction of temperature gradients in An. gambiae, providing a basis for targeting mosquito heat responses as a means toward reducing malaria transmission.
Phylogenetic diversity of transition and anoxic zone bacterial communities within a near‐shore anoxic basin: Nitinat Lake
Authors: Schmidtova Jana , Hallam Steven J. , Baldwin Susan A.
Published: September 2009

At two stations surveyed in Nitinat Lake, a ∼200‐m‐deep anoxic tidal fjord, sulfide was detected as close as 15 m from the surface. Biological characterization, determined from small subunit ribosomal RNA gene sequencing, of the chemocline and anaerobic zone revealed many sequences related to sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria, suggesting that sulfur cycling is a dominant process. γ‐ and ε‐Proteobacteria related to thiotrophic symbionts, as well as Chlorobium sp., dominated the transition zone. These are expected to play a role in dark and phototrophic CO2 fixation, respectively. ε‐Proteobacteria phylotype abundance increased with depth, eventually comprising 69–97% of all sequences recovered from the anoxic zone. The vast majority (74%) of these phylotypes were affiliated with a novel Acrobacter sp. group (NITEP5). Quantification of NITEP5 revealed that up to 2.8 × 105 cells ml−1 were present in the anoxic zone. Surprisingly, although sequences related to known sulfate‐reducing bacteria were recovered from the transition zone, quantification of the dsr gene and 35SO42− uptake tests suggest that sulfate‐reduction within the water column is negligible. Overall, sequence diversity between different vertical zones was high, although the spatial segregation of γ‐Proteobacteria, Chlorobi, and ε‐Proteobacteria did not appear to vary significantly between seasons.
Virus resistance in the toxic bloom‐forming dinoflagellate Heterocapsa circularisquama to single‐stranded RNA virus infection
Authors: Tomaru Yuji , Mizumoto Hiroyuki , Nagasaki Keizo
Published: September 2009

HcRNAV is the only known cultured dinoflagellate‐infecting RNA virus. Lysis of its host dinoflagellate Heterocapsa circularisquama caused by HcRNAV is followed by apparent cell regrowth. Here we investigate the mechanism supporting the survival phenomenon. The proportion of normal cells with intact nucleus decreased to ∼8% by 3 days post infection, and then, increased to > 90% at 15 days post infection. There were abnormal cells lacking an intact nucleus, and this was followed by propagation of virus‐resistant survivor cells. The proportion of HcRNAV‐resistant cells in three different subcultures and temporal fluctuations were compared: a clonal H. circularisquama culture without virus inoculation (virus‐sensitive, VS), a surviving isolate from the HcRNAV‐inoculated Culture‐VS incubated in autoclaved medium (virus‐resistant, VR) and a portion of Culture‐VR incubated with HcRNAV (VR incubated with virus, VR + V). The proportion of HcRNAV‐resistant cells in Culture‐VS was 0% and in Culture‐VR + V was > 94% during the experiment; and Culture‐VR fluctuated from 4% to 71%. Hence, the virus resistance was assumed to be reversible. Using Northern hybridization, viral genome accumulation was not detected in Culture‐VR + V cells either inoculated with HcRNAV or transfected with HcRNAV‐genome; thus, intracellular viral RNA replication was assumed to be interrupted in the virus‐resistant cells.
Identification and characterization of new LuxR/LuxI‐type quorum sensing systems from metagenomic libraries
Authors: Hao Youai , Winans Stephen C. , Glick Bernard R. , Charles Trevor C.
Published: September 2009

Quorum sensing (QS) cell–cell communication systems are utilized by bacteria to coordinate their behaviour according to cell density. Several different types of QS signal molecules have been identified, among which acyl‐homoserine lactones (AHLs) produced by Proteobacteria have been studied to the greatest extent. Although QS has been studied extensively in cultured microorganisms, little is known about the QS systems of uncultured microorganisms and the roles of these systems in microbial communities. To extend our knowledge of QS systems and to better understand the signalling that takes place in the natural environment, metagenomic libraries constructed using DNA from activated sludge and soil were screened, using an Agrobacterium biosensor strain, for novel QS synthase genes. Three cosmids (QS6‐1, QS10‐1 and QS10‐2) that encode the production of QS signals were identified and DNA sequence analysis revealed that all three clones encode a novel luxI family AHL synthase and a luxR family transcriptional regulator. Thin layer chromatography revealed that these LuxI homologue proteins are able to synthesize multiple AHL signals. Tandem mass spectrometry analysis revealed that LuxIQS6‐1 directs the synthesis of at least three AHLs, 3‐O‐C14:1 HSL, 3‐O‐C16:1 HSL and 3‐O‐C14 HSL; LuxIQS10‐1 directs the synthesis of at least 3‐O‐C12 HSL and 3‐O‐C14 HSL; while LuxIQS10‐2 directs the synthesis of at least C8 HSL and C10 HSL. Two possible new AHLs, C14:3 HSL and (?)‐hydroxymethyl‐3‐O‐C14 HSL, were also found to be synthesized by LuxIQS6‐1.
A functional magnetic resonance imaging study of the effect of sacral neuromodulation on brain responses in women with Fowler’s syndrome
Authors: Kavia Rajesh , DasGupta Ranan , Critchley Hugo , Fowler Clare , Griffiths Derek
Published: September 2009

Study Type – Aetiology (case series) Level of Evidence 4

OBJECTIVE

To examine brain responses to bladder filling in young women with Fowler’s syndrome (FS, a sphincter abnormality manifested by impaired voiding and bladder sensation), treated with sacral neuromodulation (SNM).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Six women, aged 18–39 years with FS underwent functional brain magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) immediately after SNM and when untreated (baseline). Data were collected at four sessions: after SNM with an empty and a full bladder, and at baseline with an empty and a full bladder. In each session, 280 whole‐brain scans were acquired while repeatedly infusing and withdrawing 50 mL of saline, using push‐buttons to report changing desire to void. Data were analysed using Statistical Parametric Mapping.

RESULTS

At baseline with an empty bladder, extensive responses (contrast = infusion–withdrawal) were almost exclusively negative (‘deactivations’), e.g. in the right insula, seat of visceral sensation. Increased bladder volume and/or SNM treatment reduced deactivations and strengthened normal (positive) responses, e.g. in the periaqueductal grey (PAG) terminus of ascending spinal afferents. At baseline, there was significant correlation of brain responses with maximum urethral closure pressure.

CONCLUSION

These data show that brain responses to bladder filling are abnormal in FS. The explanation for this that best explains the evidence is that the primary abnormality is an overactive urethra that generates abnormally strong inhibitory afferent signals, so effectively blocking bladder afferent activity at the sacral level and deactivating the PAG and higher centres, with consequent loss of bladder sensation and ability to void. Apparently, a normal mechanism for suppression of incontinence involving the striated urethral sphincter becomes exaggerated in FS and prevents voiding. SNM seems to act at the sacral level, by blocking inhibition by urethral afferents.
Risk factors for gestational diabetes mellitus in Chinese women—a prospective study of 16 286 pregnant women in China
Authors: Yang H. , Wei Y. , Gao X. , Xu X. , Fan L. , He J. , Hu Y. , Liu X. , Chen X. , Yang Z. , Zhang C. ,   on behalf of China National GDM Survey Working Group
Published: September 2009

Aims  To determine the incidence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in China and to further identify population specific risk factors for GDM.

Methods  Following a universal GDM screening recommendation, 16 286 pregnant women who underwent a 50‐g glucose challenge test from 18 cities in China were followed up through pregnancy. GDM was confirmed by oral glucose tolerance test according to American Diabetes Association criteria.

Results  The incidence of GDM was 4.3%. Previously reported risk factors for GDM, including advanced maternal age, pre‐pregnancy obesity and family history of diabetes, were strongly associated with an elevated GDM risk. Moreover, after the adjustment for the above‐mentioned risk factors, a history of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis, residency in south China and a history of spontaneous abortion were significantly associated with an increased GDM risk; adjusted odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (95% CI)] were 1.97 (1.39, 2.80), 1.84 (1.59–2.13), and 1.46 (1.12, 1.91), respectively.

Conclusions  In this large study of GDM in Chinese women, advanced maternal age, pre‐pregnancy overweight or obesity and family history of diabetes were confirmed to be risk factors. In addition, a history of recurrent vulvovaginal candidiasis or spontaneous abortion and residency in south China appeared to be novel risk factors in this population.