bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expanded geographical distribution of Myxobolus cerebralis: first detections from Alaska
Authors: Arsan E L , Atkinson S D , Hallett S L , Meyers T , Bartholomew J L
Published: July 2007

The parasite responsible for salmonid whirling disease, Myxobolus cerebralis, was introduced to the USA in 1958. It has since spread across the country causing severe declines in wild trout populations, but has never been documented from Alaska. However, while assessing the risk of introduction of M. cerebralis into the state, we detected the parasite using a species‐specific polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay. Testing of 180 hatchery rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum), by pepsin trypsin digest (PTD) and quantitative PCR (QPCR) revealed 14 positive samples. Infection was confirmed by sequencing the parasite 18S rRNA gene and by a nested PCR assay based on the same gene. Sequence comparison of M. cerebralis from several locations demonstrated the Alaska isolates were genetically distinct and therefore not false‐positives arising from contamination during processing. We were unable to visually identify myxospores, indicating that either infection was light or mature spores had not formed. A reference set of fish samples spiked with known numbers of myxospores verified the QPCR and PTD results. This paper presents DNA sequence data from the Alaska M. cerebralis isolates, provides a brief history of the fish and facility of origin, and discusses implications of different testing methods on asymptomatic fish populations.
Farnesol, a common sesquiterpene, inhibits PQS production in Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Cugini Carla , Calfee M. Worth , Farrow John M. , Morales Diana K. , Pesci Everett C. , Hogan Deborah A.
Published: July 2007

Farnesol is a sesquiterpene produced by many organisms, including the fungus Candida albicans. Here, we report that the addition of farnesol to cultures of Pseudomonas aeruginosa, an opportunistic human bacterial pathogen, leads to decreased production of the Pseudomonas quinolone signal (PQS) and the PQS‐controlled virulence factor, pyocyanin. Within 15 min of farnesol addition, decreased transcript levels of pqsA, the first gene in the PQS biosynthetic operon, were observed. Transcript levels of pqsR (mvfR), which encodes the transcription factor that positively regulates pqsA, were unaffected. An Escherichia coli strain producing PqsR and containing the pqsA promoter fused to lacZ similarly showed that farnesol inhibited PQS‐stimulated transcription. Electrophoretic mobility shift assays showed that, like PQS, farnesol stimulated PqsR binding to the pqsA promoter at a previously characterized LysR binding site, suggesting that farnesol promoted a non‐productive interaction between PqsR and the pqsA promoter. Growth with C. albicans leads to decreased production of PQS and pyocyanin by P. aeruginosa, suggesting that the amount of farnesol produced by the fungus is sufficient to impact P. aeruginosa PQS signalling. Related isoprenoid compounds, but not other long‐chain alcohols, also inhibited PQS production at micromolar concen‐trations, suggesting that related compounds may participate in interspecies interactions with P. aeruginosa.
Diurnal, seasonal and interannual variability of carbon isotope discrimination at the canopy level in response to environmental factors in a boreal forest ecosystem
Authors: CHEN BAOZHANG , CHEN JING M.
Published: July 2007

Accurate estimation of temporal and spatial variations in photosynthetic discrimination of 13C is critical to carbon cycle research. In this study, a combined ecosystem–boundary layer isotope model, which was satisfactorily validated against intensive campaign data, was used to explore the temporal variability of carbon discrimination in response to environmental driving factors in a boreal ecosystem in the vicinity of Fraserdale Tower, Ontario, Canada (49°52′30″N, 81°34′12″W). A 14 year (1990–1996 and 1998–2004) hourly CO2 concentration and meteorological record measured on this tower was used for this purpose. The 14 year mean yearly diurnal amplitude of canopy‐level discrimination Δcanopy was computed to be 2.8 ± 0.5‰, and the overall diurnal cycle showed that the greatest Δcanopy values occurred at dawn and dusk, while the minima generally appeared in mid‐afternoon. The average annual Δcanopy varied from 18.3 to 19.7‰ with the 14 year average of 19 ± 0.4‰. The overall seasonality of Δcanopy showed a gradually increasing trend from leaf emergence in May–September and with a slight decrease at the end of the growing season in October. Δcanopy was negatively correlated to vapour pressure deficit and air temperature across hourly to decadal timescales. A strong climatic control on stomatal regulation of ecosystem isotope discrimination was found in this study.
Wounding induces resistance to pathogens with different lifestyles in tomato: role of ethylene in cross‐protection
Authors: FRANCIA DORIANA , DEMARIA DANIELE , CALDERINI ORNELLA , FERRARIS LUCIA , VALENTINO DANILA , ARCIONI SERGIO , TAMIETTI GIACOMO , CARDINALE FRANCESCA
Published: July 2007

Many reports point to the existence of a network of regulatory signalling occurring in plants during the interaction with micro‐organisms (biotic stress) and abiotic stresses such as wounding. However, the focus is on shared intermediates/components and/or common molecular outputs in differently triggered signalling pathways, and not on the degree and modes of effective influence between abiotic and biotic stresses nor the range of true plant–pathogen interactions open to such influence. We report on local and systemic wound‐induced protection in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) to four pathogens with a range of lifestyles (Botrytis cinerea, Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. lycopersici, Phytophthora capsici and Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato). The role of ethylene (ET) in the phenomenon and in the induction by wounding of several markers of defense was investigated by using the never‐ripe tomato mutant plants impaired in ET perception. We showed that PINIIb, PR1b, PR5, PR7 and peroxidase (POD) are influenced locally and/or systemically by wounding and, with the exception of POD activity, by ET perception. We also demonstrated that ET, although not essential, is positively (B. cinerea, P. capsici) or negatively (F. oxysporum, P. syringae pv. tomato) involved not only in basal but also in wound‐induced resistance to each pathogen.
Reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide are involved in ABA inhibition of stomatal opening
Authors: YAN JIUPIANG , TSUICHIHARA NOBUE , ETOH TAKEOMI , IWAI SUMIO
Published: July 2007

Although nitric oxide (NO) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) are essential signalling molecules required for mediation of abscisic acid (ABA)‐induced stomatal closure, it is not known whether these molecules also mediate the ABA inhibition of stomatal opening. In this study, we investigated the role of NO and ROS in the ABA inhibition of stomatal opening in Vicia faba. ABA induced both NO and ROS synthesis, and the NO scavenger reduced the ABA inhibition of stomatal opening. Exogenous NO and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) also inhibited stomatal opening, indicating that NO and ROS are involved in the inhibition signalling process. An inhibitor of nitric oxide synthase (NOS) reversed the ABA inhibition of stomatal opening. Either the NO scavenger or the NOS inhibitor also reversed the process in the H2O2 inhibition of stomatal opening. We found that in the ABA inhibition of stomatal opening, NO is downstream of ROS in the signalling process, and NO is synthesized by a NOS‐like enzyme.
A comparison study on nurses' and therapists' perception on the positioning of stroke patients in Singapore General Hospital
Authors: Yew Siew Mee Lilian , Hwee Bee Wong
Published: July 2007

Before developing a study to evaluate the effect of positioning on outcome after stroke, it was important to explore whether there were differences in perception between neurology/neurosurgery nurses, nurses from other wards, occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) over the positioning of stroke patients in Singapore General Hospital (SGH). Questionnaires were sent to 227 nurses, seven PTs and six OTs from six wards where more stroke patients are cared for in SGH. Seventy‐two per cent of the respondents identified bed positioning as their positioning strategy. ‘Sitting in a chair’ was selected as the best position by most of the respondents in the three specialty groups for nursing conscious hemiplegic stroke patients. ‘A 30 degree propped‐up angle in bed’ was selected as the best position by the majority of the nurses from the neuroscience wards while ‘lying horizontally on the unaffected side’ of the body was selected as the best position by most of the nurses from other wards, PTs and OTs for nursing unconscious hemiplegic stroke patients. However, no significant difference was found between the groups in what they considered the best position for stroke patients. The lack of consensus between these respondents is probably because there are few studies to guide nursing practices for the positioning of stroke patients. Hence, research to confirm which positions improve or hinder outcome after stroke is indispensable.
Predicting obesity in early adulthood in Japanese women
Authors: Kubo Toshihide , Furujo Mahoko , Ueda Yuko , Imai Ken , Tsukahara Kohei , Morita Hirosuke , Ogura Kazuo , Kimura Takehide , Shimizu Junya , Fukuhara Shinichi , Koyama Teruhisa , Kanadani Tomohisa , Shiraga Hiroshi
Published: July 2007

Aim:  We analysed the body measurements of Japanese women to determine which factors may forecast adult obesity and also performed a comparative study of the utility of body mass index (BMI), which is used widely in Western Europe, and percentage of overweight, which is used in Japan.

Methods:  Subjects included 244 Japanese women who were born between 1983 and 1986. Using a questionnaire, we investigated anthropometric values from birth to present and parents’ present anthropometric data, and analysed factors that correlate with current BMI data.

Results:  (i) BMI after 10 years of age and BMI increase between ages 7 and 8 years correlated with BMI in adulthood. The carrying over rate of overweight increased with age. Meanwhile, percentage of overweight after 13 years onwards correlated with BMI in adulthood. (ii) Adult BMI positively correlated to both parents’ BMI.

Conclusions:  (i) For a Japanese woman, BMI in childhood is a good indicator of young adult BMI, and has the possibility of becoming an important parameter to monitor obesity progression. (ii) Therefore, attempts to control obesity in elementary school girls are necessary. (iii) Parents’ weights may potentially influence obesity in adulthood; however, further examination of other confounding factors is necessary.
An autopsy case of drug‐induced diffuse cerebral axonopathic leukoencephalopathy: The pathogenesis in relation to reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome
Authors: Okeda Riki , Kawamoto Tatsunari , Tanaka Eri , Shimizu Hideo
Published: July 2007

An autopsy case of diffuse axonopathic leukoencephalopathy induced by drug treatment is reported. A 70‐year‐old woman with multiple myeloma developed encephalopathy several days after completing a course of intravenous human immunoglobulin (IVIg) and granulocyte‐colony stimulating factor (G‐CSF), and died within I month. T2‐weighted MRI demonstrated multifocal high‐signal areas in the bilateral cerebral white matter, especially in the right frontal lobe. Neuropathologically, multifocal hydropic axonal swelling with a poor glial reaction was recognized diffusely in the bilateral deep cerebral white matter, being especially marked in the frontal lobe. The cortex, subcortical U‐fibers, corpus callosum, and anterior commissure were spared. The cerebellar white matter also showed similar changes, albeit less marked, but the brainstem was spared. Microscopically, the myeloma involvement of the CNS was limited to the dura, and the cerebral arteries showed slight atherosclerosis, but neither thrombi nor angitis. This case, although ultimately fatal, neurologically and neuroradiologically resembled reversible posterior leukoencephalopathy syndrome (RPLS) induced by IVIg and/or G‐CSF, and the nature and selective distribution of the neuropathological changes suggested that the pathogenesis involved vasospasm of the bilateral internal carotid artery and the main trunks of the cerebral arteries, due to unknown cause, inducing ischemia in the deep white matter, which is supplied by long nutrient arteries.
CNK/T‐cell brain lymphoma associated with Epstein‐Barr virus in a patient with AIDS
Authors: Cobo Fernando , Talavera Paloma , Busquier Heriberto , Concha Ángel
Published: July 2007

We report a case of extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type, with exclusive cerebral localization in a patient with AIDS. The patient presented with neurological alterations, fever and convulsions, so the initial presumptive diagnosis was an opportunistic brain infection. MRI showed a left parietal necrotic lesion and a stereotactic brain biopsy was performed for pathological, microbiological and molecular studies. Histological sections showed an angiocentric and angiodestructive growth pattern and the immunophenotype of this tumor was CD56+, CD45+, CD3+ (cytoplasmic), Granzyme B+ and Perforin+. All the microbiological studies such as bacterial, fungi, micobacteria, Toxoplasma gondii and Cryptococcus determination were negatives. A PCR study with primer specific for EBV viral genome of Bam‐Hi‐w system was positive. Also, a rearrangement study showed T‐cell gene rearrangement with monoclonal appearance. A diagnosis of extranodal NK/T‐cell lymphoma was made and the patient died a few days later. This case represents a very rare example of NK/T‐cell lymphoma of the brain in a patient with AIDS. The diagnosis of this kind of lymphomas requires a multimodality approach correlating clinical, morphological, immunophenotypic and molecular data.
Evaluation of the off‐label usage of rituximab in a large teaching hospital in New South Wales
Authors: Sharma R. , Koller L. , Barclay P. , Liddle C.
Published: July 2007

A retrospective review of patients receiving rituximab off label in a large teaching hospital was conducted between July 2002 and January 2006. The indication, dosing regimen, efficacy and cost of rituximab were evaluated. Rituximab was prescribed for three clinical indications; acute organ transplant rejection, post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disease and autoimmune disease. On average, 600 mg of rituximab was prescribed weekly for 4 weeks, costing the hospital $108 739.37. We suggest an initial approval for a limited number of doses with subsequent approval dependent on improvement in predefined clinical or biochemical end‐points. Furthermore, we suggest an Australia‐wide central database be established to enable delineation of the optimal dosing schedule, as well as monitoring of clinical outcome.
Young people with chronic illness: the approach to transition
Authors: Kennedy A. , Sloman F. , Douglass J. A. , Sawyer S. M.
Published: July 2007

As increasing numbers of young people with chronic illness reach adulthood, their ongoing medical care must evolve to be delivered in an adult rather than paediatric setting, a process known as transition. Towards this goal, increasing numbers of paediatric and adult hospitals are engaging in processes to promote the continuity of care for young people with chronic illness. Increasing evidence shows that adverse health consequences occur when inadequate transition arrangements are in place. This article draws from the experience of a transition programme emanating from the Royal Children’s Hospital, Melbourne and describes the preparation that can ensure effective transition of young people with chronic illness to adult institutions. In paediatric settings, this includes opportunities for young people to be seen medically on their own to encourage independence with health‐care goals and ensuring that adequate health information is transferred to the adult service. In adult institutions, understanding the concept of adolescent development will encourage young people’s engagement with the new health‐care providers to improve health outcomes. Joint clinics between paediatric and adult health‐care teams can improve the transfer of individual patient knowledge, promote a collaborative approach to patient care, facilitate continuity of care and build confidence from both medical and patient perspectives. Including patients in decision‐making processes around transition services will encourage youth‐focused service developments that will help achieve optimal outcomes in young people with chronic illness.
Evidence based medicine methods (part 1): the basics
Authors: MACKINNON RALPH JAMES
Published: July 2007

Evidence based medicine (EBM) is a potent patient centered clinical learning strategy. EBM facilitates efficient robust decision making on an individual patient basis. It provides the framework and tools to rapidly and effectively find answers to specific clinical questions and educate others. At the core of EBM is clinical judgement. This is the ability to combine clinical experience and expertise with the best available evidence in the literature to answer a specific pediatric anesthesia question.
Duchenne muscular dystrophy: an old anesthesia problem revisited
Authors: HAYES JASON , VEYCKEMANS FRANCIS , BISSONNETTE BRUNO
Published: July 2007

Patients with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy suffer from a progressive deterioration in muscle secondary to a defect in the dystrophin gene. As such, they are susceptible to perioperative respiratory, cardiac and other complications, such as rhabdomyolysis. Inhalational anesthetic agents have been implicated as a cause of acute rhabdomyolysis that can resemble malignant hyperthermia (MH). This article reviews perioperative ‘MH‐like’ reactions reported in muscular dystrophy patients and groups them into three categories according to clinical presentation. The etiology and underlying pathophysiological process responsible for these reactions is discussed and recommendations are proposed for the safe anesthetic management of these patients.
Consensus guidelines for sustained neuromuscular blockade in critically ill children
Authors: PLAYFOR STEPHEN , JENKINS IAN , BOYLES CAROLYNE , CHOONARA IMTI , DAVIES GERALD , HAYWOOD TIM , HINSON GILLIAN , MAYER ANTON , MORTON NEIL , RALPH TANYA , WOLF ANDREW ,   UNITED KINGDOM PAEDIATRIC INTENSIVE CARE SOCIETY SEDATION,   ANALGESIA,   NEUROMUSCULAR BLOCKADE WORKING GROUP
Published: July 2007

Background:  The United Kingdom Paediatric Intensive Care Society Sedation, Analgesia and Neuromuscular Blockade Working Group is a multidisciplinary expert panel created to produce consensus guidelines on sedation, analgesia and neuromuscular blockade in critically ill children and forward knowledge in these areas. Neuromuscular blockade is recognized as an important element in the care of the critically ill and adult clinical practice guidelines in this area have been available for several years. However, similar clinical practice guidelines have not previously been produced for the critically ill pediatric patient.

Methods:  A modified Delphi technique was employed to allow the Working Group to anonymously consider draft recommendations in up to three Delphi rounds with predetermined levels of agreement. This process was supported by a total of four consensus conferences and once consensus had been achieved, a systematic review of the available literature was carried out.

Results:  A set of consensus guidelines was produced including six key recommendations. An evaluation of the existing literature supporting these recommendations is provided.

Conclusions:  Multidisciplinary consensus guidelines for maintenance neuromuscular blockade in critically ill children (excluding neonates) have been successfully produced and are supported by levels of evidence. The Working Group has highlighted the paucity of high quality evidence in these important clinical areas and this emphasizes the need for further randomized clinical trials in this area.
Young Children’s References to Temporal Attributes of Allegedly Experienced Events in the Course of Forensic Interviews
Authors: Orbach Yael , Lamb Michael E.
Published: July 2007

Developmental differences in references to temporal attributes of allegedly experienced events were examined in 250 forensic interviews of 4‐ to 10‐year‐old alleged victims of sexual abuse. Children’s ages, the specific temporal attributes referenced, and the types of memory tapped by the interviewers’ questions significantly affected the quantity and quality of temporal references produced. The findings documented age‐related increases in 4‐ to 10‐year‐olds’ references to temporal attributes, using the appropriate relational terminology, both spontaneously and in response to temporal requests. More references to temporal attributes were elicited from recall than from recognition memory, highlighting spontaneous reporting capabilities. Implications for theories concerning the developing understanding of temporal concepts and for the design of effective, age‐appropriate, forensic interview techniques are discussed.
Hindsight Bias and Developing Theories of Mind
Authors: Bernstein Daniel M. , Atance Cristina , Meltzoff Andrew N. , Loftus Geoffrey R.
Published: July 2007

Although hindsight bias (the “I knew it all along” phenomenon) has been documented in adults, its development has not been investigated. This is despite the fact that hindsight bias errors closely resemble the errors children make on theory of mind (ToM) tasks. Two main goals of the present work were to (a) create a battery of hindsight tasks for preschoolers, and (b) assess the relation between children’s performance on these and ToM tasks. In two experiments involving 144 preschoolers, 3‐, 4‐, and 5‐year olds exhibited strong hindsight bias. Performance on hindsight and ToM tasks was significantly correlated independent of age, language ability, and inhibitory control. These findings contribute to a more comprehensive account of perspective taking across the lifespan.
Friendship Moderates Prospective Associations Between Social Isolation and Adjustment Problems in Young Children
Authors: Laursen Brett , Bukowski William M. , Aunola Kaisa , Nurmi Jari‐Erik
Published: July 2007

This longitudinal study investigated prospective links between social isolation and adjustment problems among 166 (77 girls, 89 boys) Finnish children ages 7 to 9. Peer nominations for social engagement and self‐reports of internalizing and externalizing problems were collected in the spring of the 1st and 2nd grade. Friendship moderated prospective associations between peer and adjustment variables. Among friended children, there were no prospective associations between social isolation and either internalizing or externalizing problems. Among unfriended children, initial social isolation was positively linked to subsequent increases in internalizing and externalizing problems, and initial internalizing and externalizing problems predicted subsequent increases in social isolation. The findings suggest that friendship buffers against the adverse consequences associated with being isolated and presenting adjustment difficulties.
Enthusiasm in the Development of Radical Innovations
Authors: Sandberg Birgitta
Published: July 2007

People involved in the development of radical innovations tend to feel a lot of enthusiasm. It has been claimed that, in fact, this enthusiasm fosters the innovativeness. The purpose of this study is to analyse how enthusiasm is created and sustained in this process. The theoretical framework combines the previous literature on champions and enthusiasm‐creating systems. The study analyses enthusiasm in five processes of radical innovation. The results indicate that it is not only champions but also innovation‐development teams who contribute to spreading enthusiasm throughout organizations. Eventually, the enthusiasm also spreads outside to the customers. Five inhibitors of enthusiasm were identified: commitment, engagement, trust, results and help gaps.
Social Security Options for Informal Sector Workers in Emergent Economies and the Asia and Pacific Region
Authors: Pellissery Sony , Walker Robert
Published: July 2007

Does any form of social security make sense in emergent economies, such as those in Asia and the Pacific, where most of the labour force is involved in the informal sector? This article explores various options. Though there are structural obstacles, such as the increasing casualization of labour, the inability of low paid employees to save for the future and widespread corruption, the state is not devoid of policy opportunities. A bottom‐up approach engaging local community organizations to provide suitable security measures is one important option. However, this needs to be achieved in the context of a multifaceted approach to create an environment of decent work and training that increases individuals’ employability.
Environmental Disasters and Disastrous Policies: An Overview from India
Authors: Ray‐Bennett Nibedita S.
Published: July 2007

Though disasters have been important recurring events in South Asia, the policy framework for addressing the issues arising from disaster has been weak. Taking an alternative perspective on the definition of disaster itself, this article attempts to address the cause of the increasing numbers of disasters in India. I posit that the nation‐state still understands disasters as a natural phenomenon, rather than as an intersection between conditions of vulnerability and actual hazards. This is to be observed in the disaster policies adopted. Hence, this article emphasizes the inclusion of ‘vulnerability’ as paramount.
Development of 16 microsatellite markers for the European cockchafer, Melolontha melolontha
Authors: ENKERLI JÜRG , GISLER ALEXANDRA , KÖLLIKER ROLAND , WIDMER FRANCO
Published: July 2007

Sixteen polymorphic microsatellite markers were isolated from the European cockchafer, Melolontha melolontha L., based on enriched genomic libraries. Allelic variability was assessed in a collection of 30 individuals obtained from a field in eastern Switzerland. The number of detected alleles ranged from three to 13 with a mean of 6.69 and average observed and expected heterozygosities were 0.52 and 0.66, respectively. The 16 highly polymorphic microsatellite markers represent a powerful molecular tool, which will allow for detailed population genetic analyses on this important pest insect.
Diagram of Reliability and Net Gain: A New Method for Summarizing and Displaying the Results of Controlled Trials
Authors: Cruccu Giorgio , Taylor Rod S.
Published: July 2007

Background:  Sound evidence‐based clinical and policy therapy recommendations depend on a process of acquiring literature, appraising it for study design and quality, and assessing its results in terms of relative benefits and harms. In this article we describe two summary metrics that have been developed to assist guideline developers to assess the importance of the quality/size of trials and the relative benefit and harm of treatments, and a related graphical method for displaying them together.

Methods:  To illustrate this graphic approach, we have used the evidence base for drug therapies for neuropathic pain. “Reliability” is calculated from the sample size and quality of trials, while the second metric, “Net Gain,” is calculated from the relative benefit and harm of each trial.

Results:  The graphical method differentiated the evidence for neuropathic pain drugs.

Conclusions:  This graphical output provides a simple and relatively easy way to understand summary of information on large amounts of trial data across a number of therapies, which may present an impression of the evidence at a glance even for a nonexpert. The usefulness of this graphical approach needs to be tested in the development of future clinical guidelines.
Isolation of Leclercia adecarboxylata from the blood culture of an asymptomatic platelet donor
Authors: Davenport Patricia , Land Kevin J.
Published: July 2007

BACKGROUND: Bacterial contamination of platelet (PLT) components is a leading cause of transfusion‐related fatality. AABB and The College of American Pathologists require that blood centers and transfusion services have a process for detecting bacterial contamination in PLT products.

CASE REPORT: Leclercia adecarboxylata was isolated from the donated blood of a healthy, asymptomatic 61‐year‐old man. The PLT donation was collected by apheresis method and was separated into three daughter or split products. Samples from all three products tested positive for the presence of bacterial contamination. L. adecarboxylata was subsequently identified in two of three products. The blood donor's records were reviewed and the donor was interviewed by telephone. The only possible risk identified during the interview was a questionable contact dermatitis, away from the antecubital fossa, thought to be due to poison ivy exposure before the donation. All subsequent donations have tested negative for the presence of bacterial contamination. The organism is a Gram‐negative bacillus variant of the Enterobacteriaceae family and known nosocomial isolate. It has been previously reported as a rarely isolated opportunistic pathogen mostly associated with patients having compromised immunity, chronic or inflammatory illness, catheter‐related bacteremia, or mixed‐bacterial wounds. L. adecarboxylata was originally identified in water, foods, and environment.

CONCLUSION: This is the first known report of isolation of L. adecarboxylata from the blood donation of an apparently healthy individual and could represent transient asymptomatic bacteremia or more likely contamination by epidermal flora. The organism may be underrecognized due to its close resemblance to Escherichia coli.
An investigation of computer literacy and attitudes amongst Greek post‐graduate dental students
Authors: Divaris Kimon , Polychronopoulou Argy , Mattheos Nikos
Published: July 2007

An accurate assessment of the computer skills of students is a pre‐requisite for the success of any e‐learning interventions. The aim of the present study was to assess objectively the computer literacy and attitudes in a group of Greek post‐graduate students, using a task‐oriented questionnaire developed and validated in the University of Malmö, Sweden. 50 post‐graduate students in the Athens University School of Dentistry in April 2005 took part in the study. A total competence score of 0—49 was calculated. Socio‐demographic characteristics were recorded. Attitudes towards computer use were assessed. Descriptive statistics and linear regression modeling were employed for data analysis. Total competence score was normally distributed (Shapiro–Wilk test: W = 0.99, V = 0.40, P = 0.97) and ranged from 5 to 42.5, with a mean of 22.6 (±8.4). Multivariate analysis revealed ‘gender’, ‘e‐mail ownership’ and ‘enrollment in non‐clinical programs’ as significant predictors of computer literacy. Conclusively, computer literacy of Greek post‐graduate dental students was increased amongst males, students in non‐clinical programs and those with more positive attitudes towards the implementation of computer assisted learning.
Quality assurance and benchmarking: an approach for European dental schools
Authors: Jones M. L. , Hobson R. S. , Plasschaert A. J. M. , Gundersen S. , Dummer P. , Roger‐Leroi V. , Sidlauskas A. , Hamlin J.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  This document was written by Task Force 3 of DentEd III, which is a European Union funded Thematic Network working under the auspices of the Association for Dental Education in Europe (ADEE). It provides a guide to assist in the harmonisation of Dental Education Quality Assurance (QA) systems across the European Higher Education Area (EHEA). There is reference to the work, thus far, of DentEd, DentEd Evolves, DentEd III and the ADEE as they strive to assist the convergence of standards in dental education; obviously QA and benchmarking has an important part to play in the European HE response to the Bologna Process. Definitions of Quality, Quality Assurance, Quality Management and Quality Improvement are given and put into the context of dental education. The possible process and framework for Quality Assurance are outlined and some basic guidelines/recommendations suggested. It is recognised that Quality Assurance in Dental Schools has to co‐exist as part of established Quality Assurance systems within faculties and universities, and that Schools also may have to comply with existing local or national systems. Perhaps of greatest importance are the 14 ‘requirements’ for the Quality Assurance of Dental Education in Europe. These, together with the document and its appendices, were unanimously supported by the ADEE at its General Assembly in 2006. As there must be more than one road to achieve a convergence or harmonisation standard, a number of appendices are made available on the ADEE website. These provide a series of ‘toolkits’ from which schools can ‘pick and choose’ to assist them in developing QA systems appropriate to their own environment. Validated contributions and examples continue to be most welcome from all members of the European dental community for inclusion at this website. It is realised that not all schools will be able to achieve all of these requirements immediately, by definition, successful harmonisation is a process that will take time. At the end of the DentEd III project, ADEE will continue to support the progress of all schools in Europe towards these aims.
Clinical competency exercises: some student perceptions
Authors: Rolland S. , Hobson R. , Hanwell S.
Published: July 2007

Abstract:  Clinical competency assessments are an important part of dental curricula—to satisfy national requirements, maintain professionalism and ensure graduates are prepared for independent clinical practice. It has been observed within Newcastle Dental School (UK) that students tend to undertake the majority of their competency assessments at a very late stage. A questionnaire was designed to investigate student perceptions of two different competency assessment processes (formative structured clinical operative tests vs. summative grading), assess why they chose to undertake competency exercises at a particular time, investigate how well prepared they felt, and finally to evaluate potential barriers that students perceived within the competency process. Data regarding the timing of competency assessments and grades achieved were analysed. Fifty‐nine per cent of students reported preferring the summative grading system. Most students felt that they undertook their competency assessments at about the right time (54%: conservation department, 66%: paediatric department) and the majority felt adequately prepared to undertake each exercise (68—98%). The greatest barrier stated to undertaking competency assessments was a lack of suitable patients both on which to practise and to undertake the exercise. No correlation was found between when students took summative assessments and the grades achieved. Therefore, we must encourage students to undertake their competency assessments once they have accrued sufficient clinical experience and reassure them that timing has little effect on the grade achieved. We should assist them to locate suitable patients wherever possible.
Dental students’ attitude towards anti‐smoking programmes: a study in Flanders, Belgium
Authors: Vanobbergen J. , Nuytens P. , Van Herk M. , De Visschere L.
Published: July 2007

Objective:  The aim of the study was to assess the dental students’ attitude towards tobacco cessation counselling in the dental setting and to explore the influence of knowledge, belief in effectiveness, smoking status, gender and curriculum.

Material and methods:  The study group consisted of all undergraduate students from the 2002–2003 classes of the Ghent University (n = 96). A validated questionnaire was administered to all students involving four different sections: demographic characteristics, attitude related to tobacco cessation programmes in the dental setting, belief in their effectiveness and knowledge concerning tobacco health effects. Statistical analysis included simple univariate nonparametric tests for evaluating differences in attitude towards tobacco cessation programmes, belief in effectiveness of tobacco cessation programmes in the dental setting and knowledge of students concerning tobacco health effects by year of graduation, smoking status and gender. Multiple logistic regression was chosen to calculate adjusted odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals.

Results:  Students view willingness to advise individual patients to quit using tobacco. Yet only 51.3% are willing to co‐operate in anti‐tobacco programmes at the community level, and the perception of students of the effectiveness of smoking cessation counselling in the dental setting is low. The variance of attitude towards tobacco cessation programmes was significantly affected by knowledge and the belief in effectiveness of tobacco cessation programmes in the dental setting. Better knowledge and belief in effectiveness of tobacco cessation counselling was associated with an increasing positive attitude towards tobacco cessation programmes expressed by an odds ratio of 3.12 (95% CI 1.00–9.67) and 1.17 (95% CI 1.00–1.37) respectively.

Conclusion:  Belief in effectiveness and knowledge seem to influence the attitude of students towards tobacco cessation counselling.

Practice implications:  Besides imparting knowledge, the attitude of newly graduated dentists could be improved by stressing the effectiveness of smoking cessation activities during lectures and integrated training modules in the undergraduate education.
Anaphylactoid reaction to Haemaccel® infusion and contact sensitization to Opticlude® orthoptic eye patches: a case report
Authors: GUPTA DEEPAK , MISHRA SEEMA , CHAUHAN HIMANSHU , BHATNAGAR SUSHMA
Published: July 2007

A 46‐year‐old female patient undergoing hemiglossectomy with supraomohyoid neck dissection under general anesthesia suffered acute bronchospasm which was successfully treated with subcutaneous terbutaline. The only other noticeable adverse event during induction of anesthesia was the development of periorbital skin erythema encircling the Opticlude® orthoptic eye patches within a few minutes of application. The eye patches were immediately removed. Eight weeks later, negative intradermal skin testing to Haemaccel® implicated anaphylactoid reaction instead of anaphylaxis. This case report illustrates the importance of routine history taking of known allergies and dermatological conditions that can require caution in the use of allergen drugs and associated agents such as Haemaccel® and Opticlude® orthoptic eye patches.
Material Development for Improved 1eV(GaIn)(NAs) Solar Cell Structures
Authors: Volz K. , Torunski T. , Lackner D. , Rubel O. , Stolz W. , Baur C. , Müller S. , Dimroth F. , Bett A. W.
Published: July 2007

The dilute nitride (GaIn)(NAs) material system grown lattice matched to GaAs or Ge with a 1eV band gap is an interesting material for the use in four-junction solar cells with increased efficiencies. As a result of its metastability, several challenges exist for this material system, which up to now limits the device performance. We performed nanostructural analysis in combination with photoluminescence characterization to optimize the metal organic vapor phase growth as well as the annealing conditions for the quaternary solar cell material. The optimum annealing conditions depend strongly on the In content of the quaternary material. Valence force field calculations of stable N environments in the alloy support the model that the N moves from a Ga rich environment realized during growth into an In rich environment upon annealing. Simultaneously, N induced strain fluctuations, which are detected in the N containing material upon growth, are dissolved and the device properties are improved.
Experimental Analysis of the Operation of Quantum Dot Intermediate Band Solar Cells
Authors: López N. , Martí A. , Luque A. , Stanley C. , Farmer C. , Diaz P.
Published: July 2007

With a 63.2% theoretical efficiency limit, the intermediate band solar cell (IBSC) is a new photovoltaic device proposed to overcome the 40.7% efficiency limit of conventional single gap solar cells. Quantum dot technology can be used to take the IBSC concept into practice. In this respect, the results of experiments carried out recently to characterize IBSC solar cells containing different numbers of InAs quantum dot layers as well as the theoretical models used to describe and analyze the related experimental data are summarized here. Electroluminescence and quantum efficiency measurements confirm that the main operating conditions for IBSCs are complied with in structures with a low number of QD layers. These conditions include the production of photocurrent from absorption of below band gap energy photons and the formation of distinctive quasi-Fermi levels associated with each electronic band (i.e., the conduction, valence, and intermediate bands).
Characterization by Ab Initio Calculations of an Intermediate Band
Material Based on Chalcopyrite Semiconductors Substituted by Several Transition
Metals
Authors: Palacios P. , Sánchez K. , Wahnón P. , Conesa J. C.
Published: July 2007

Recent work has proposed that enhanced efficiency can be achieved in photovoltaic cells through implementation of the intermediate band (IB) concept in which a narrow band inserted within the band gap of a semiconductor is used to make the combined absorption of two sub-band gap energy photons lead to the generation of current at the higher voltage corresponding to the full band gap. Trying to tell which materials could have the IB properties necessary for this, quantum calculations within density functional theory at the generalized gradient approximation level have been carried out in this work for chalcopyrite-type copper gallium sulphide structures where gallium is partially substituted by transition metal atoms (Ti, V, Cr, Mn), as these materials are presumed to be candidates for developing the IB electronic structure able to realize this concept. The computed electronic structures characterized by density-of-state curves and band dispersion diagrams, show transition metal-induced spin-polarized characteristics and additional bands appearing in the band gap of the parent sulphide compound. In the results reported here for these compounds, the multiplicity, degree of filling, and energy position of the electronic levels depends on the number of electrons and the electronegativity of the transition element, and they are analyzed in terms of the crystal field splitting produced by the crystalline structure in the metal 3d orbital manifold. For the Ti- and Cr-derived structures (the more interesting ones from the point of view of the intermediate band photovoltaic concept), the stability of these materials is also assessed by computing the energetics of their decomposition in appropriate, known stable compounds. Although this decomposition is found to be favorable, the corresponding energy difference is relatively small, and it is envisaged that they can be made effective experimentally. With these results, the suitability of these materials for use as IB compounds in photovoltaic cells is discussed, and the Ti-substituted one is proposed as the best candidate of this type.
Patched1 Regulates Hedgehog Signaling at the Primary Cilium
Authors: Rohatgi Rajat , Milenkovic Ljiljana , Scott Matthew P.
Published: July 2007

Primary cilia are essential for transduction of the Hedgehog (Hh) signal in mammals. We investigated the role of primary cilia in regulation of Patched1 (Ptc1), the receptor for Sonic Hedgehog (Shh). Ptc1 localized to cilia and inhibited Smoothened (Smo) by preventing its accumulation within cilia. When Shh bound to Ptc1, Ptc1 left the cilia, leading to accumulation of Smo and activation of signaling. Thus, primary cilia sense Shh and transduce signals that play critical roles in development, carcinogenesis, and stem cell function.
Development of Recombinant Nucleoprotein-Based Diagnostic Systems for Lassa Fever
Authors: Saijo Masayuki , Georges-Courbot Marie-Claude , Marianneau Philippe , Romanowski Victor , Fukushi Shuetsu , Mizutani Tetsuya , Georges Alain-Jean , Kurata Takeshi , Kurane Ichiro , Morikawa Shigeru
Published: July 2007

Diagnostic systems for Lassa fever (LF), a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by Lassa virus (LASV), such as enzyme immunoassays for the detection of LASV antibodies and LASV antigens, were developed using the recombinant nucleoprotein (rNP) of LASV (LASV-rNP). The LASV-rNP was expressed in a recombinant baculovirus system. LASV-rNP was used as an antigen in the detection of LASV-antibodies and as an immunogen for the production of monoclonal antibodies. The LASV-rNP was also expressed in HeLa cells by transfection with the expression vector encoding cDNA of the LASV-NP gene. An immunoglobulin G enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) using LASV-rNP and an indirect immunofluorescence assay using LASV-rNP-expressing HeLa cells were confirmed to have high sensitivity and specificity in the detection of LASV-antibodies. A novel monoclonal antibody to LASV-rNP, monoclonal antibody 4A5, was established. A sandwich antigen capture (Ag-capture) ELISA using the monoclonal antibody and an anti-LASV-rNP rabbit serum as capture and detection antibodies, respectively, was then developed. Authentic LASV nucleoprotein in serum samples collected from hamsters experimentally infected with LASV was detected by the Ag-capture ELISA. The Ag-capture ELISA specifically detected LASV-rNP but not the rNPs of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus or Junin virus. The sensitivity of the Ag-capture ELISA in detecting LASV antigens was comparable to that of reverse transcription-PCR in detecting LASV RNA. These LASV rNP-based diagnostics were confirmed to be useful in the diagnosis of LF even in institutes without a high containment laboratory, since the antigens can be prepared without manipulation of the infectious viruses.
Dendritic Cell Function during Chronic Hepatitis C Virus and Human Immunodeficiency Virus Type 1 Infection
Authors: Fan Zheng , Huang Xiao-Li , Kalinski Pawel , Young Stephen , Rinaldo Charles R.
Published: July 2007

Hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection can persist despite HCV-specific T-cell immunity and can have a more aggressive course in persons coinfected with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Defects in antigen-presenting, myeloid dendritic cells (DCs) could underlie this T-cell dysfunction. Here we show that monocyte-derived DCs from persons with chronic HCV infection, with or without HIV-1 coinfection, being treated with combination antiretroviral therapy produced lower levels of interleukin 12 (IL-12) p70 in response to CD40 ligand (CD40L), whereas the expression of DC surface activation and costimulatory molecules was unimpaired. The deficiency in IL-12 production could be overcome by addition of gamma interferon (IFN-γ) with CD40L, resulting in very high, comparable levels of IL-12 production by DCs from HCV- and HIV-1-infected subjects. Smaller amounts of IL-12 p70 were produced by DCs treated with the immune modulators tumor necrosis factor alpha and IL-1β, with or without IFN-γ, and the amounts did not differ among the uninfected and infected subjects. Blocking of IL-10 with an anti-IL-10 monoclonal antibody in the CD40L-stimulated DC cultures from HCV-infected persons increased the level of IL-12 p70 production. The ability of DCs from HCV-infected persons to stimulate allogeneic CD4+T cells or induce IL-2, IL-5, or IL-10 in a mixed lymphocyte reaction was not impaired. Thus, myeloid DCs derived from persons with chronic HCV infection or with both HCV and HIV-1 infections have defects in IL-12 p70 production related to IL-10 activity that can be overcome by treatment of the DCs with CD40L and IFN-γ. DCs from these infected subjects have a normal capacity to stimulate CD4+T cells. The functional effectiveness of DCs derived from HCV-infected individuals provides a rationale for the DC-based immunotherapy of chronic HCV infection.