bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Non-symmetrical electric response in CaCu3Ti4O12 and La0.05Ba0.95TiO3−δ-SPS materials
Authors: Valdez-Nava Zarel , Dinculescu Sorin , Lebey Thierry
Published: September 2010

Two colossal dielectric permittivity (CDC) materials, CaCu3Ti4O12 (CCTO) issued from conventional sintering with grain sizes between 20 and 30 µm and SPS sintered La0.05Ba0.95TiO3−δ (BTL-SPS) with grain sizes between 50 and 100 nm, are characterized by simple electrical measurements (Sawyer–Tower and I(V)). Whatever the type of measurements performed, the results depend, on the one hand, on the relative position of the sample in the measuring setup and, on the other hand, on the type of surface treatment achieved on the sample. A clear demonstration of the non-isotropic character of the materials under study is achieved. The non-symmetrical electrical response observed in these two different materials seems to be independent of microstructure and composition, and could be related to the overall phenomena at the origin of the colossal values of permittivity.
Conformal Killing vectors in nonexpanding -spaces with Λ
Authors: Chudecki Adam
Published: September 2010

The general structure of nonexpanding hyperheavenly spaces is presented. We find conformal Killing equations and their integrability conditions in spinorial formalism. The reduction of Killing equations to one master equation is also presented. We generalize the Killing problem on the case of a nonzero cosmological constant and a conformal Killing factor. Finally, an example of the complex [N]⊗[N] space with the conformal Killing vector is considered and the respective metric is explicitly given.
Automated construction and analysis of the design space for biochemical systems
Authors: Fasani Rick A. , Savageau Michael A.
Published: September 2010

Motivation: Our recent work introduced a generic method to construct the design space of biochemical systems: a representation of the relationships between system parameters, environmental variables and phenotypic behavior. In design space, the qualitatively distinct phenotypes of a biochemical system can be identified, counted, analyzed and compared. Boundaries in design space indicate a transition between phenotypic behaviors and can be used to measure a system's tolerance to large changes in parameters. Moreover, the relative size and arrangement of such phenotypic regions can suggest or confirm global properties of the system.

Results: Our work here demonstrates that the construction and analysis of design space can be automated. We present a formal description of design space and a detailed explanation of its construction. We also extend the notion to include variable kinetic orders. We describe algorithms that automate common steps of design space construction and analysis, introduce new analyses that are made possible by such automation and discuss challenges of implementation and scaling. In the end, we demonstrate the techniques using software we have created.

Availability: The Design Space Toolbox for MATLAB is freely available at http://www.bme.ucdavis.edu/savageaulab/

Contact:  masavageau@ucdavis.edu
Haemodynamic effects of rolofylline in the treatment of patients with heart failure and impaired renal function
Authors: Ponikowski Piotr , Mitrovic Veselin , O'Connor Christopher M. , Dittrich Howard , Cotter Gad , Massie Barry M. , Givertz Michael M. , Chen Erluo , Murray Meredith , Weatherley Beth D. , Fujita Kenji P. , Metra Marco
Published: September 2010

Aims

The direct effects of adenosine A1 receptor antagonists on haemodynamic parameters in patients with acute heart failure (HF) remain largely unknown.

Methods and results

We evaluated the haemodynamic effects of the AA1RA rolofylline in 59 HF patients with concomitant renal impairment (estimated creatinine clearance 20–80 mL/min). Placebo or rolofylline 30 mg was administered as a 4 h infusion followed by intravenous (i.v.) loop diuretic administration. Haemodynamic measurements were carried out hourly up to 8 h post‐dosing by pulmonary artery catheterization. Urine output, fractional excretion of sodium, potassium, urea, and uric acid, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and creatinine levels were also measured. In both groups, the changes from baseline in all haemodynamic indices except mean pulmonary artery pressure (PAP) were not clinically significant. Mean [95% confidence interval (CI)] PAP showed a placebo‐adjusted decrease with rolofylline of −1.5 (−4.1, 1.1)mmHg at Hour 4 and −3.5 mmHg (95% CI: −6.2, −0.2) at Hour 8. There was a significant increase with rolofylline in diuresis [placebo‐corrected mean (95% CI) change of 68 (20, 116)mL/h at Hour 2–4 and 103 (21, 185)mL/h at Hour 4–8] and in fractional excretion of sodium, potassium, and uric acid. Placebo‐corrected changes in plasma levels of creatinine and BUN with rolofylline were non‐significant.

Conclusion

Single administration of rolofylline in patients with HF and impaired renal function produced a slight decrease in mean PAP and consistently increased diuresis and natriuresis without compromising renal function, both before and after administration of i.v. loop diuretics.
Recovery of the Bristol Bay stock of red king crabs under a rebuilding plan
Authors: Kruse Gordon H. , Zheng Jie , Stram Diana L.
Published: September 2010

Kruse, G. H., Zheng, J., and Stram, D. L. 2010. Recovery of the Bristol Bay stock of red king crabs under a rebuilding plan. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 67: 1866–1874. After peak landings in 1980, the red king crab fishery in Bristol Bay (Alaska) was closed in 1983 because of stock collapse. In the following decade, small commercial harvests and additional fishery closures (1994 and 1995) associated with depressed stock status prompted a reappraisal of the management strategy. A length-based population model was developed, which provided an improved stock assessment for setting annual catch quota. A management strategy evaluation revealed that a harvest strategy, which included a stair-stepped harvest rate of 10–15% of mature males and a threshold for effective spawning biomass below which no fishing is permitted, provides for relatively high long-term yield, greater stability in yield, fewer fishery closures, and higher effective spawning biomass. This strategy was adopted in 1996, in addition to crab bycatch caps and closed areas, to protect sensitive crab habitats implemented in the management of the groundfish trawl fishery. Since then, abundance of legal-sized males increased by 58%, that of mature males doubled, and mature female abundance and effective spawning biomass tripled through 2008. The stock has been considered rebuilt since 2003. Subsequently, a sharp reduction in fishing capacity improved profitability of the fishery, after implementation of an individual fishing quota programme in 2005.
What mucosal biopsies have to offer
Authors: RIDDELL R. H.
Published: September 2010

Biopsies are the current gold standard test for the diagnosis of all acute and chronic inflammatory diseases in the upper gastrointestinal tract, because changes associated with these diseases are not always visible on endoscopy. However, the correlation of inflammation with symptoms such as those that might suggest ulcers, erosions or non‐ulcer dyspepsia is unclear. Terms such as erosions and mucosal breaks are often misinterpretations of endoscopic features frequently associated with some form of redness. However, redness often does not correlate with histological inflammation. In the stomach, it may be a marker of ingestion of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or of other chemicals such as alcohol, or of duodeno‐gastric reflux. Endoscopic findings should remain descriptive and attempts at interpretation should not be made unless the endoscopist is quite certain that the interpretation is correct. It makes little sense to base treatment and symptom‐related improvement on these new paradigms, until there is evidence that such assumptions and correlations are justified.

Histological changes indicative of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease are found on both sides of the squamo‐columnar junction (Z‐line). In the gastric cardia, inflammation is found in the absence of Helicobacter pylori or other known causes of gastritis (carditis); the squamous mucosa is most likely to show inflammatory changes such as neutrophils or eosinophils close to the Z‐line, while traditional reactive changes in the squamous mucosa remain valid only in biopsies taken at least 3 cm above the Z‐line. Endoscopic criteria of reflux disease have a morphological counterpart in capillary congestion and haemorrhage into the papillae, which have largely been ignored by pathologists as secondary to biopsy trauma. A biopsy protocol that maximizes the chances of detecting changes due to reflux disease is suggested.

The traditional definition of Barrett's oesophagus as requiring 3 cm of glandular mucosa extending into the oesophagus is no longer tenable. It is suggested that Barrett's oesophagus is redefined as intestinal metaplasia in the lower oesophagus. It is currently unclear whether patients with such minimal Barrett's epithelium are at increased risk of adenocarcinoma, or require surveillance.
Assessment and significance of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: UNGE P.
Published: September 2010

Although Helicobacter pylori gastritis, that is, H. pylori infection and its complications, is currently the focus of tremendous research activity, there is no gold standard test for its detection. Current methods of assessment of H. pylori infection are reviewed in this paper, and the diseases associated with the bacterium are discussed. Histological tests can indicate the presence of infection with H. pylori. Culture tests, however, are more specific but rely on the presence of viable bacteria, and the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) can detect DNA from H. pylori. Indirect methods of detecting infection include urease tests, but these recognize only active bacteria. Serological tests are usually satisfactory screening methods but are not suitable for assessing treatment outcome. There are now many reports that associate diseases other than peptic ulcer disease with the presence of H. pylori infection. In 1994, the International Agency for Research on Cancer, sponsored by the World Health Organization, classified the bacterium as a group I carcinogen. Results of studies on patients with functional dyspepsia indicate that eradication of H. pylori gives a range of levels of symptom relief, from no relief to significant relief, with a geometric mean value indicating a positive effect on a sub‐group of this category of patients. Other groups of patients with symptoms similar to functional dyspepsia and a significant risk for negative investigation are those with endoscopy negative reflux, mucosa‐associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma or mild non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) lesions. Both MALT lymphoma and NSAID lesions are partly linked to H. pylori infection, while the possible correlation between reflux disease and H. pylori infection is controversial. In conclusion, H. pylori gastritis seems to be associated with a number of complications, some of which are serious. There are no reliable data showing any positive aspects of the infection. Eradication of H. pylori infection should therefore, in most cases, be regarded as an appropriate therapeutic strategy.
Motility, heartburn and dyspepsia
Authors: QUIGLEY E. M. M.
Published: September 2010

Disordered motility has been considered fundamental to the pathophysiology of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease and a number of dyspeptic syndromes. Motor activity is certainly essential for the homeostasis of the oesophagus and stomach ‐ in the oesophagus, the lower oesophageal sphincter and peristalsis are fundamental components of the ‘normal’ anti‐reflux defence mechanism, whereas, in the stomach, contractile activity regulates the orderly emptying of the various components of a meal.

Recent studies have clarified considerably the role of the lower oesophageal sphincter in permitting reflux to occur under both physiological and pathological situations, and transient relaxation of the lower oesophageal sphincter is now regarded as the most important mechanism of reflux.

Interest has also been renewed in the role of hiatus hernia in the pathogenesis of reflux disease. By moving the lower oesophageal sphincter into the thorax, a hiatus hernia deprives this sphincter of the beneficial effects of intra‐abdominal pressure and crural augmentation. Altered anatomical relationships also predispose the patient with a non‐reducing hiatus hernia to impaired clearance of acid, thus exacerbating reflux.

Relationships between disordered peristalsis and reflux are complex. Primary disorders of peristalsis, such as scleroderma, are associated with severe and often complicated reflux disease. It is also evident that reflux may itself result in impaired peristalsis, particularly in the distal oesophagus. Whether aggressive treatment of reflux disease by either medical or surgical means can restore peristaltic function remains uncertain.

The importance of co‐ordinated function of the antrum, pylorus and duodenum in the regulation of gastric emptying is being increasingly recognized. Foregut motor dysfunction is implicated in dyspepsia. Abnormalities in patients with dyspepsia include gastroparesis, antral hypomotility, gastric dysrhythmias, duodenal dysmotility, and duodeno‐gastric reflux. The true prevalence of these disorders is uncertain, and the reported relationship between these abnormalities and symptoms has often been inconsistent. The specificity of the abnormalities for dyspepsia is also open to question. In many instances, it remains unclear whether the motor abnormality is truly primary or rather an epi‐phenomenon. It seems reasonable to conclude that while considerable advances have been made in our understanding of both foregut motor physiology and the role of motor dysfunction in patients with reflux disease, the role of dysmotility in dyspeptic patients remains uncertain.
Measurement of the impact of heartburn and dyspepsia on quality of life
Authors: GLISE H. , WIKLUND I.
Published: September 2010

The interest in heartburn in endoscopy‐negative patients and in functional dyspepsia has increased in recent years. This necessitates new methods of disease evaluation due to the lack of objective markers. In this paper basic data are presented from the application of two widely used quality of life questionnaires ‐ the Psychological General Well‐Being Index and the Gastrointestinal Symptoms Rating Scale ‐ in patients with upper gastrointestinal symptoms without treatment and in healthy controls. From the reference population, it can be concluded that gender, as well as age, influences the outcome of both indices. In patients with untreated reflux oesophagitis, peptic ulcer or dyspepsia quality of life was low. The severity of symptoms also correlated well with both the Psychological General Well‐Being Index and the Gastrointestinal Symptom Rating Scale scores in patients with heartburn. In patients with upper gastrointestinal complaints, an evaluation of quality of life is helpful in patient evaluation, particularly in the absence of objective clinical markers of disease.
Management strategies for gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease
Authors: DENT J.
Published: September 2010

New trials allow management strategies to be proposed with greater confidence than in the past for the entire spectrum of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease. Symptom evaluation is of key importance, as it is the most cost‐effective and sensitive method for diagnosis of gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease, and for tailoring of long‐term therapy to individual patients. Endoscopy is an important adjunct to symptom assessment, but needs to be used sparingly and critically to be cost‐effective. Empirical therapy, with evaluation of symptom response, is a central management strategy that can minimize overall costs. In cases of diagnostic uncertainty, a 1–2‐week diagnostic/therapeutic test with high dose acid pump inhibitor is an emerging attractive alternative to oesophageal pH monitoring. Choice of therapy, and its subsequent adjustment to individual patients, should be made in the light of a now well‐defined hierarchy of efficacy, which is essentially the same for endoscopy‐negative and oesophagitis patients. Management strategies must acknowledge that gastro‐oesophageal reflux disease is a chronic disorder in the majority of oesophagitis and endoscopy‐negative patients. Management steps should identify the most cost‐effective long‐term treatment that gives adequate relief of symptoms and so corrects any symptom‐related impairment of quality of life. The strategies that are recommended are largely based on clinical trial outcomes. There is a need for formal clinical trials of management strategies as distinct from evaluations of specific therapies.
Review article: Intestinal epithelia and barrier functions
Authors: KRAEHENBUHL J‐P. , PRINGAULT E. , NEUTRA M. R.
Published: September 2010

The mucosal epithelia of the digestive tract acts as a selective barrier, permeable to ions, small molecules and macromolecules. These epithelial cells aid the digestion of food and absorption of nutrients. They contribute to the protection against pathogens and undergo continuous cell renewal which facilitates the elimination of damaged cells.

Both innate and adaptive defence mechanisms protect the gastrointestinal‐mucosal surfaces against pathogens. Interaction of microorganisms with epithelial cells triggers a host response by activating specific transcription factors which control the expression of chemokines and cytokines. This host response is characterized by the recruitment of macrophages and neutrophils at the site of infection. Disruption of epithelial signalling pathways that recruit migratory immune cells results in a chronic inflammatory response. The adaptive defence mechanism relies on the collaboration of epithelial cells (resident sampling system) with antigen‐presenting and lymphoid cells (migratory sampling system); in order to obtain samples of foreign antigen, these samples must be transported across the barriers without affecting the integrity of the barrier. These sampling systems are regulated by both environmental and host factors. Fates of the antigen may differ depending on the way in which they cross the epithelial barrier, i.e. via interaction with motile dendritic cells or epithelial M cells in the follicle‐associated epithelium.
Review article: Pathobiology of neutrophil interactions with intestinal epithelia
Authors: MADARA J. L.
Published: September 2010

Neutrophil‐epithelial interactions were modelled using polarized T84 cells and ligands were identified through observations of β2‐integrin dependence in patients with chronic granulomatous disease. Interactions between neutrophils and the apical membrane of crypt cells were analysed using HPLC and an in vitro model with T84 monolayers colonized by Salmonella typhimurium was used to assess neutrophil movement across the epithelium.

The decline in transepithelial resistance following movement of neutrophils across the epithelial monolayer may have been due to an interaction between neutrophils and ligand ICAM‐1 in which the neutrophils move along the paracellular pathway of epithelial cells. Cell surface polarity may influence these neutrophil‐epithelial interactions which influence Cl secretion.

These studies revealed that only strains produced in vivo were able to induce neutrophil transmigration in the in vitro model and may be indicative of new progressive therapies for inflammatory bowel disease.
Review article: Effector role of epithelia in inflammation — interaction with bacteria
Authors: HECHT G. , SAVKOVIC S. D.
Published: September 2010

The common response to infection is infiltration of the affected tissue by inflammatory cells. It is now recognized that the epithelium plays a crucial role in this immunological process by producing an array of proinflammatory cytokines including interleukin‐8, tumour necrosis factor‐α, monocyte chemotactic protein‐1, granulocytemacrophage colony‐stimulating factor, extractable nuclear antigen‐78 and others. The response of the intestinal epithelium to bacterial pathogens is particularly intriguing because it is literally bathed by normal bacterial flora and bacterial components/products yet remains immunologically quiescent despite this potentially hostile environment. In contrast, when challenged by bacterial pathogens, intestinal epithelial cells exhibit a vigorous immunological response. Our laboratory has, therefore, focused on the immune response of intestinal epithelial cells when confronted by a specific bacterial pathogen, enteropathogenic Escherichia coli.
Review article: In vitromodels in inflammatory bowel disease research—a critical review
Authors: MCKAY D. M. , PHILPOTT D. J. , PERDUE M. H.
Published: September 2010

Research efforts in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have been directed towards the epithelium as it has become clear that epithelial cells play a critical role in inflammatory response. Most research involving IBD employsin vitrotechniques.

In vitroepithelial cell studies have played and are continuing to play a major role in providing specific information relevant to IBD. Thus, such studies have provided irrefutable evidence that epithelial responses can be induced by microbes/microbial products and by immune activation. Culture experiments have provided insights into the effects of individual cytokines and other inflammatory mediators on epithelial pathophysiology, injury and repair, apoptosis, necrosis, and other processes that may be involved in IBD. Activated epithelial cells can participate in and even orchestrate immune responses, by stimulating T cells (and possibly others) and by producing cytokines that recruit specific inflammatory cells. Physiological regulation of epithelial tight junctions has been demonstrated byin vitrostudies; the implication of this information for treating IBD is just beginning to be explored. It is becoming increasingly clear that epithelial processing and presentation of antigens is critical to the outcome of the immune response.
Review article: Drug development in inflammatory bowel disease: budesonide—a model of targeted therapy
Authors: HAMEDANI R. , FELDMAN R. D. , FEAGAN B. G.
Published: September 2010

The use of non‐specific anti‐inflammatory drugs such as the glucocorticoids is the foundation of medical therapy for inflammatory bowel disease. Although conventional steroid drugs are highly effective, their use is associated with the adverse effects of Cushing's syndrome.

However, the therapeutic index of these drugs can be improved by chemical modification of the steroid nucleus and the use of new drug delivery systems that target the bowel wall as the pharmacokinetic compartment of interest. Budesonide is a novel glucocorticoid compound that illustrates the potential of this approach to identify effective and safe new treatments. Regional therapy for inflammatory bowel disease is an important pharmacological concept for the future development of the new glucocorticoids and other classes of drugs.
Review article: Targeted drug delivery in treatment of intestinal diseases
Authors: WIKBERG M. , ULMIUS J. , RAGNARSSON G.
Published: September 2010

Topical therapy within the treatment of intestinal diseases presents realistic formulation challenges for targeted drug delivery. Some relevant oral formulation concepts are reviewed. The basic principles employed are, based mainly on differences in pH and metabolic activity between the different parts of the gastrointestinal tract. A successful example of targeted drug delivery within the treatment of Crohn's disease is presented. Topical therapy for the treatment of ulcerative colitis is also discussed. Physiological variations and influence of the disease and disease status present major challenges when deciding upon a suitable formulation principle.
REVIEW: The identification of priority policy options for UK nature conservation
Authors: Sutherland William J. , Albon Steve D. , Allison Hilary , Armstrong‐Brown Sue , Bailey Mark J. , Brereton Tom , Boyd Ian L. , Carey Peter , Edwards Joan , Gill Maggie , Hill David , Hodge Ian , Hunt Alexander J. , Le Quesne Will J. F. , Macdonald David W. , Mee Laurence D. , Mitchell Roger , Norman Tim , Owen Roger P. , Parker David , Prior Stephanie V. , Pullin Andrew S. , Rands Michael R. W. , Redpath Steve , Spencer Jonathan , Spray Chris J. , Thomas Chris D. , Tucker Graham M. , Watkinson Andrew R. , Clements Andy
Published: September 2010

1. The conservation of biodiversity depends upon both policy and regulatory frameworks. Here, we identify priority policy developments that would support conservation in the UK in the light of technological developments, changes in knowledge or environmental change.

2. A team of seven representatives from governmental organizations, 17 from non‐governmental organizations and six academics provided an assessment of the priority issues. The representatives consulted widely and identified a long‐list of 117 issues.

3. Following voting and discussion during a 2‐day meeting, these were reduced to a final list of 25 issues and their potential policy options and research needs were identified. Many of the policies related to recent changes in approaches to conservation, such as increased interest in ecosystem services, adaptation to climate change and landscape ecology.

4. We anticipate that this paper will be useful for policy makers, nature conservation delivery agencies, the research community and conservation policy advocates.

5. Although many of the options have global significance, we suggest that other countries consider an equivalent exercise. We recommend that such an exercise be carried out in the UK at regular intervals, say every 5 years, to explore how biodiversity conservation can best be supported by linked policy development and research in a changing world.

6. Synthesis and applications. Opportunities for policy development were prioritized and for each of the top 25 we identified the current context, policy options and research questions. These largely addressed new issues relating to developing topics such as ecosystem services, landscape planning and nanotechnology. We envisage that this will largely be used by researchers wishing to make a contribution to potential policy debates.
Depression, coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and quality of life in Taiwanese adults from a cardiovascular department of a major hospital in Southern Taiwan
Authors: Huang Chiung‐Yu , Chi Shu‐Ching , Sousa Valmi D , Wang Chao‐Ping , Pan Kuei‐Ching
Published: September 2010

Aims.  To examine the relationships between depression, coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome and quality of life in Taiwanese adults from a cardiovascular department of a major hospital in Taiwan.

Background.  Research suggests associations between depression, metabolic syndrome and quality of life. Despite this fact, few studies have investigated these relationships among Taiwanese.

Design.  A cross‐sectional descriptive correlational design was used to conduct this study.

Methods.  A convenience sample of 140 adults participated in the study. Data were analysed with descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlations, hierarchical regression and t‐tests.

Results.  Almost a half of the subjects (46·5%) had metabolic syndrome. The most common combination of metabolic syndrome criteria was elevated blood glucose, central obesity and high blood pressure (23·7%). A greater number of individuals had coronary artery disease (72·9%), type 2 diabetes (35%) and/or depression (21·4%). Type 2 diabetes and depression were significant predictors of overall quality of life (β = −0·16, p < 0·01 and β = −0·63, p < 0·001, respectively). In addition, there were significant differences between individuals with and without type 2 diabetes and/or depression regarding overall quality of life scores; t (138) = 3·50, p < 0·01); and t (138) = 7·80, p < 0·001), respectively.

Conclusions.  Coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes and depression were common among our sample of individuals with metabolic syndrome. Those with diabetes and/or depression had worse quality of life than those without those diseases.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses need to be prepared to assess and intervene in preventing or treating depression among patients with chronic diseases, especially those with coronary artery disease, type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. When individuals are treated for depression, they are more likely to engage in self‐management of their diseases, which will prevent complications and improve their quality of life.
Reliability and validity of Turkish version of the Individualised Care Scale
Authors: Acaroglu Rengin , Suhonen Riitta , Sendir Merdiye , Kaya Hatice
Published: September 2010

Aims.  To validate an English version of the Individualised Care Scale for use with a Turkish population and evaluate its validity and reliability.

Background.  Studies about the evaluation of nursing care from the patients’ perspective are becoming more important. No valid and reliable instruments are available in Turkey for evaluating individualised care from the patients’ perspective.

Design.  Cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods.  Standard forward‐back translation techniques were used to obtain semantic equivalence of the Individualised Care Scale. An expert panel considered the translations and provided content validation. A convenience sample of 120 predischarged patients participated in a survey conducted on neurosurgical and orthopaedic wards in a university hospital in Istanbul 2006. Cronbach’s alpha coefficients and item analysis established the internal consistency and factor analysis the construct validity of the Individualised Care Scale.

Results.  Cronbach’s alpha coefficients were 0·92 for Individualised Care Scale‐A and 0·93 for Individualised Care Scale‐B. A principal component analysis supported the construct validity by generating a three‐factor solution, which accounted for 65% of the variance in the Individualised Care Scale‐A and 62% in the Individualised Care Scale‐B. Pearson’s correlation coefficients in this data were at least 0·84 between the sub‐scales and the total domain Individualised Care Scale‐A or Individualised Care Scale‐B.

Conclusion.  The Turkish version of the Individualised Care Scale is a valid and reliable instrument for measuring patients’ evaluations of individualised care. The results of this study provide cross‐cultural evidence for the usefulness of the Individualised Care Scale.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The information obtained by the Individualised Care Scale will help nurses to identify areas where developmental work could be undertaken to provide individualised care.
When it is too hot for photosynthesis: heat‐induced instability of photosynthesis in relation to respiratory burst, cell permeability changes and H2O2 formation
Authors: HÜVE KATJA , BICHELE IRINA , RASULOV BAHTIJOR , NIINEMETS ÜLO
Published: September 2010

Photosynthesis rate (An) becomes unstable above a threshold temperature, and the recovery upon return to low temperature varies because of reasons not fully understood. We investigated responses of An, dark respiration and chlorophyll fluorescence to supraoptimal temperatures of varying duration and kinetics in Phaseolus vulgaris asking whether the instability of photosynthesis under severe heat stress is associated with cellular damage. Cellular damage was assessed by Evans blue penetration (enhanced membrane permeability) and by H2O2 generation [3,3′‐diaminobenzidine 4HCl (DAB)‐staining]. Critical temperature for dark fluorescence (F0) rise (TF) was at 46–48 °C, and a burst of respiration was observed near TF. However, An was strongly inhibited already before TF was reached. Membrane permeability increased with temperature according to a switch‐type response, with enhanced permeability observed above 48 °C. Experiments with varying heat pulse lengths and intensities underscored the threshold‐type loss of photosynthetic function, and indicated that the degree of photosynthetic deterioration and cellular damage depended on accumulated heat‐dose. Beyond the ‘point of no return’, propagation of cellular damage and reduction of photosynthesis continued upon transfer to lower temperatures and photosynthetic recovery was slow or absent. We conclude that instability of photosynthesis under severe heat stress is associated with time‐dependent propagation of cellular lesions.
Once daily fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray controls symptoms of most patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: Pedersen B. , Dahl R. , Richards D. H. , Jacques L. A. , Larsen B. B. , Pichler W. , Nykanen K. N.
Published: September 2010

This multicentre, randomized, double‐blind, parallel‐group study was designed to compare the efficacy and tolerability of fluticasone propionate aqueous nasal spray 200 μg once daily (FPANS 200 μg od) with FPANS 200 μg twice daily (bd) in patients whose seasonal rhinitis symptoms were not completely controlled with FPANS 200 μg od. A total of 549 patients initially received FPANS 200 μg od during the open‐treatment phase of the study. After 2 weeks, 65% of patients had their symptoms well controlled by FPANS 200 μg od and continued with this treatment for a further 2 weeks. The remainder received either FPANS 200 μg od or FPANS 200 μg bd for a further 2 weeks. Efficacy was evaluated by the analysis of symptom‐free days. In the uncontrolled group, there was a significant increase in the percentage of symptom‐free days in the FPANS 200 μg bd group over the FPANS 200 μg od group for nasal blockage on waking (P<0.05) and nasal blockage during the day (P<0.05). Similar trends were observed for sneezing, rhinorrhoea, nasal itching, and eye symptoms. There was a significant increase in the percentage of days with a symptom score of less than 2 in the FPANS 200 μg bd group for nasal blockage during the day (P < 0.05). Adverse events were similar in nature and frequency in each treatment group. It is concluded that in the majority of patients symptoms of seasonal rhinitis are well controlled by FPANS 200 μg od. In the minority of patients whose symptoms are not adequately controlled by a once daily dose, FPANS 200 μg bd provides additional relief, particularly from nasal blockage.
Nedocromil sodium reduces allergen‐induced plasma extravasation in the guinea pig nasal mucosa by inhibition of tachykinin release
Authors: Javdan P. , Figini M. , Emanueli C. , Geppetti P.
Published: September 2010

The effect of topically applied (10 μl) nedocromil sodium (NS) and sodium cromoglycate (CS) on the plasma extravasation induced by local application of ovalbumin (5%, 10 μl) into the respiratory nasal mucosa of sensitized guinea pigs pretreated with the neutral endopeptidase inhibitor, phosphoramidon, was studied. Topical NS (220 nmol, 10 μl) reduced by 57% the Evans blue dye extravasation caused by local application of ovalbumin into the nasal mucosa, whereas CS (220 nmol, 10 μl) was without effect. The tachykinin NK1receptor antagonist CP‐99994 (2 μmol/kg, i.v.) reduced by 45% the plasma extravasation induced by antigen challenge. The combination of NS and CP‐99994 did not increase further the inhibition caused by NS alone. Plasma extravasation evoked by instillation of bradykinin (50 nmol), which causes this response by releasing tachykinins from sensory nerves, was markedly reduced by NS, but not by CS. Plasma extravasation evoked by instillation of substance P, which acts directly on the endothelial cells, was not affected by NS. We conclude that the reduction by NS of the plasma extravasation induced by antigen challenge in the nasal mucosa of sensitized guinea pigs is due to the inhibition of tachykinin release from sensory nerve endings.
Evaluation of a composite scoring system in conjunctival challenge with allergen: reproducibility and evolution during loratadine treatment
Authors: Bousquet J. , Chanal I. , Czarlewski W. , Michel F. B.
Published: September 2010

The reproducibility of any challenge and its sensitivity to change during therapeutic interventions should always be examined before any drug trial is conducted. Conjunctival challenge has been widely used to assess objectively the efficacy of antiallergic treatments. A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, crossover study was carried out in 26 patients allergic to grass pollen to test the reproducibility of a composite symptom score during placebo and control days, and to check the ability of loratadine to increase the provocative dose inducing a positive challenge. Conjunctival challenge was carried out with increasing concentrations of a standardized orchard grass pollen extract until a composite symptom score of 5 was reached. The provocative dose inducing a positive challenge was similar for the baseline (6.94 ± 8.7 index of reactivity (IR)) and placebo days (20.0 ± 32.5 IR) and was significantly increased (P < 0.01 and P < 0.001) when patients received loratadine (117.3 ± 136.8 IR). This study shows that the composite score used was reproducible and sensitive to change, making it possible to use in drug trials.
Honey allergy is rare in patients sensitive to pollens
Authors: Kiistala R. , Hannuksela M. , Mäkinen‐Kiljunen S. , Niinimäki A. , Haahtela T.
Published: September 2010

We challenged in a double‐blind manner 46 pollen‐allergic patients with 30 g of honey and another 32 patients with a placebo (30 g of syrup). Minor, mostly subjective, symptoms were seen in or reported by 26% of those challenged with honey and 41% of those challenged with placebo. In no case could the symptoms with certainty be related to the challenge. Eight commercially available honeys were examined for allergen activity by RAST inhibition and immunospot methods. Both pollen and insect allergen activity was found in all honeys, and they could cause allergic reactions. However, no serious or even obvious reaction occurred in pollen‐allergic patients challenged with honey.
Peripheral blood T lymphocytes in seasonal bronchial asthma
Authors: Monteseirín J. , Guardia P. , Delgado J. , Llamas E. , Palma J. , Conde A. , Conde J.
Published: September 2010

Variations in T lymphocytes in asthmatic patients are related to disease severity. However, the effects of natural exposure to pollens on peripheral blood T lymphocytes have not been clarified. In this paper, the effects on peripheral blood CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes from pollen‐sensitive subjects and from nonatopic donors were studied during and outside the pollen season. In patients who suffer from seasonal asthma, we found an increase in the CD4/CD8 bright ratio and a decrease in the mean number of CD4 receptors per cell during the pollen season. No variation was observed in healthy subjects. These results suggest that CD4 lymphocytes may be causally linked to the pathogenesis of seasonal bronchial asthma.
Immunoglobulin E levels in relationship to HIV‐1 disease, route of infection, and vitamin E status
Authors: Miguez‐Burbano M. J. , Shor‐Posner G. , Fletcher M. A. , Lu Y. , Moreno J. N. , Carcamo C. , Page B. , Quesada J. , Sauberlich H. , Baum M. K.
Published: September 2010

Our recent studies have demonstrated that in early HIV‐1 infection, elevation of plasma immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels precedes the decline of CD4 cell count and is influenced by vitamin E status. In order to further investigate the role of IgE elevation in HIV‐1 infection, we determined IgE levels in HIV‐1‐seropositive and ‐seronegative intravenous drug users (IDUs) (n = 38), in relationship to cellular and humoral immune function, liver enzymes, and vitamin E status. To examine the possible impact of the route of HIV‐1 infection on IgE levels, comparisons between the cohorts of the HIV‐1‐seropositive and ‐seronegative IDUs and homosexual men (n = 45) were also conducted. All HIV‐1‐seropositive participants had significantly higher (P = 0.003) IgE levels than the HIV‐1‐seronegative subjects. The HIV‐1‐seropositive IDUs, moreover, demonstrated significantly higher (P = 0.01) IgE levels than HIV‐1‐seropositive homosexual men, despite similar CD4 cell counts. Stepwise regression analysis was used to evaluate the possible variables contributing to the IgE variation. HIV‐1 status (P = 0.0009), intravenous drug use (P = 0.014), CD8 cell counts (P = 0.0001), plasma level of vitamin E (P = 0.006), and alcohol intake (P = 0.047) were significant, accounting for 71% of the IgE elevation. These findings suggest that IgE may serve as a sensitive marker to reflect the evolution of HIV‐1 disease in individuals from different risk groups.
GA2LEN/EAACI pocket guide for allergen‐specific immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis and asthma
Authors: Zuberbier T. , Bachert C. , Bousquet P. J. , Passalacqua G. , Walter Canonica G. , Merk H. , Worm M. , Wahn U. , Bousquet J.
Published: September 2010

To cite this article: Zuberbier T, Bachert C, Bousquet PJ, Passalacqua G, Walter Canonica G, Merk H, Worm M, Wahn U, Bousquet J. GA2LEN/EAACI pocket guide for allergen‐specific immunotherapy for allergic rhinitis and asthma. Allergy 2010; 65: 1525–1530.

This pocket guide is the result of a consensus reached during several GA2LEN and EAACI meetings. The aim of the current pocket guide is to offer a comprehensive set of recommendations on the use of immunotherapy in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis and asthma in daily practice. This pocket guide is meant to give simple answers to the most frequent questions of practitioners in Europe, including ‘practising allergists’, general practitioners and any other physicians with special interest in allergen‐specific immunotherapy (SIT). It is not a long or detailed scientific review of the topic. However, the recommendations in this pocket guide were compiled following an in‐depth review of existing guidelines and publications, including the 1998 EAACI position paper, the 1998 WHO Position Paper on SIT and the 2001 Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA). It is also based on the ARIA update 2008 (prepared in collaboration with GA2LEN), the ‘Sub‐lingual Immunotherapy: WAO Position Paper 2009’ (from the World Allergy Organisation) and the Methodology paper of ARIA. The recommendations cover patient selection, allergen extract to be used, route of administration of SIT (in particular, sublingual and subcutaneous immunotherapy), and necessary precautions to be followed in using SIT.
Cutaneous infection by Phomopsis longicolla in a renal transplant recipient from Guinea: first report of human infection by this fungus
Authors: Garcia‐Reyne A. , López‐Medrano F. , Morales J.M. , García Esteban C. , Martín I. , Eraña I. , Meije Y. , Lalueza A. , Alastruey‐Izquierdo A. , Rodríguez‐Tudela J.L. , Aguado J.M.
Published: September 2010

A. Garcia‐Reyne, F. López‐Medrano, J.M. Morales, C. García Esteban, I. Martín, I. Eraña, Y. Meije, A. Lalueza, A. Alastruey‐Izquierdo, J.L. Rodríguez‐Tudela, J.M. Aguado. Cutaneous infection by Phomopsis longicolla in a renal transplant recipient from Guinea: first report of human infection by this fungus. Transpl Infect Dis 2011: 13: 204–207. All rights reserved

Abstract: We report the case of a 72‐year‐old female renal transplant recipient with a nodular lesion in the distal phalange of the third left finger produced by a dematiaceous fungus that was identified as Phomopsis longicolla. She was treated with itraconazole and terbinafine and later with voriconazole, without response. The patient underwent a surgical resection with lesion‐free edge and continued on voriconazole. One year later she was asymptomatic and had not developed new lesions.
Mating compatibility among Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera: Tephritidae) populations from three different origins
Authors: Sookar P. , Haq I. , Jessup A. , McInnis D. , Franz G. , Wornoayporn V. , Permalloo S.
Published: September 2010

Distinct host ranges of the melon fly, Bactrocera cucurbitae (Coquillett), have been reported among different island populations, suggesting significant genetic divergence. Thus, for the application of the sterile insect technique (SIT), it is important to ensure that released flies are sexually fully compatible with each other and with the laboratory strains. Mating tests among the following strains of the melon fly, B. cucurbitae: Mauritius laboratory‐adapted (35 generations), Seychelles laboratory‐adapted (24 generations), and Hawaii genetic sexing strain (90 generations), were conducted in field cages at the FAO/IAEA Agriculture and Biotechnology Laboratories in Seibersdorf, Austria during the months of August/September 2009. The genetic sexing strain, developed in Hawaii in 2001, allows separation of females and males on the basis of pupal colour. Two separate series of trials were run simultaneously. In the first, melon fly females from Mauritius were the target strain and the competing males were from Mauritius, Seychelles, and Hawaii (GSS). In the second trial, melon fly females from the Seychelles selected among competing males from the same three populations. Sexual activity was similar among the melon fly populations and no significant non‐random, assortative mating was observed. Therefore, it is suggested that melon flies from Mauritius, Seychelles and the Hawaii are compatible, at least under semi‐natural conditions.
What do renal health‐care professionals in Singapore think of advance care planning for patients with end‐stage renal disease?
Authors: YEE ALETHEA , SEOW YING YING , TAN SZE HUEY , GOH CYNTHIA , QU LIMIN , LEE GRACE
Published: September 2010

Aim:  Previous studies have focused either on advance medical directives rather than advance care planning (ACP), or on patient's perspectives on ACP rather than those of the health‐care providers. This study aimed to explore the knowledge, attitudes and experience of renal health‐care professionals in Singapore on ACP for patients with end‐stage renal failure.

Methods:  A 41‐item questionnaire was distributed to physicians, nurses, medical social workers (MSW) and other allied health professionals working in renal units. The questionnaire had four sections: demographics of the respondents, knowledge of, attitudes to and experience with ACP.

Results:  Of a total of 620 survey forms, 562 were returned, giving a response rate of 90.6%. Medical social workers and physicians had higher knowledge scores than the rest. Of doctors and MSW, 82.4% and 100%, respectively, considered ACP discussions as part of their role, but only 37.1% of nurses and 38.1% of other allied health‐care professionals thought likewise. Nurses appeared to be the least confident in conducting ACP discussions, and most fearful of upsetting patients and families. Medical social workers were the most confident. The main barriers for physicians appeared to be lack of time, concerns regarding family backlash and the perception that patients were not prepared to discuss ACP.

Conclusion:  Training of renal health‐care professionals in ACP should aim to correct misunderstandings surrounding ACP, address potential barriers and impart communication skills. In particular, renal nurses will need encouragement to initiate discussions and be equipped with the skills to do so.