bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Domain adaptation for semantic role labeling in the biomedical domain
Authors: Dahlmeier Daniel , Ng Hwee Tou
Published: February 2010

Motivation: Semantic role labeling (SRL) is a natural language processing (NLP) task that extracts a shallow meaning representation from free text sentences. Several efforts to create SRL systems for the biomedical domain have been made during the last few years. However, state-of-the-art SRL relies on manually annotated training instances, which are rare and expensive to prepare. In this article, we address SRL for the biomedical domain as a domain adaptation problem to leverage existing SRL resources from the newswire domain.

Results: We evaluate the performance of three recently proposed domain adaptation algorithms for SRL. Our results show that by using domain adaptation, the cost of developing an SRL system for the biomedical domain can be reduced significantly. Using domain adaptation, our system can achieve 97% of the performance with as little as 60 annotated target domain abstracts.

Availability: Our BioKIT system that performs SRL in the biomedical domain as described in this article is implemented in Python and C and operates under the Linux operating system. BioKIT can be downloaded at http://nlp.comp.nus.edu.sg/software. The domain adaptation software is available for download at http://www.mysmu.edu/faculty/jingjiang/software/DALR.html. The BioProp corpus is available from the Linguistic Data Consortium http://www.ldc.upenn.edu

Contact:  nght@comp.nus.edu.sg
Dendritic cell physiology and function in the eye
Authors: Forrester John V. , Xu Heping , Kuffová Lucia , Dick Andrew D. , McMenamin Paul G.
Published: February 2010

Summary:  The eye and the brain are immunologically privileged sites, a property previously attributed to the lack of a lymphatic circulation. However, recent tracking studies confirm that these organs have good communication through classical site‐specific lymph nodes, as well as direct connection through the blood circulation with the spleen. In addition, like all tissues, they contain resident myeloid cell populations that play important roles in tissue homeostasis and the response to foreign antigens. Most of the macrophage and dendritic cell (DC) populations in the eye are restricted to the supporting connective tissues, including the cornea, while the neural tissue (the retina) contains almost no DCs, occasional macrophages (perivascularly distributed), and a specialized myeloid cell type, the microglial cell. Resident microglial cells are normally programmed for immunological tolerance. The privileged status of the eye, however, is relative, as it is susceptible to immune‐mediated inflammatory disease, both infectious and autoimmune. Intraocular inflammation (uveitis and uveoretinitis) and corneal graft rejection constitute two of the more common inflammatory conditions affecting the eye leading to considerable morbidity (blindness). As corneal graft rejection occurs almost exclusively by indirect allorecognition, host DCs play a major role in this process and are likely to be modified in their behavior by the ocular microenvironment. Ocular surface disease, including allergy and atopy, also comprise a significant group of immune‐mediated eye disorders in which DCs participate, while infectious disease such as herpes simplex keratitis is thought to be initiated via corneal DCs. Intriguingly, some more common conditions previously thought to be degenerative (e.g. age‐related macular degeneration) may have an autoimmune component in which ocular DCs and macrophages are critically involved. Recently, the possibility of harnessing the tolerizing potential of DCs has been applied to experimental models of autoimmune uveoretinitis with good effect. This approach has considerable potential for use in translational clinical therapy to prevent sight‐threatening disease caused by ocular inflammation.
Langerin‐expressing dendritic cells in gut‐associated lymphoid tissues
Authors: Chang Sun‐Young , Kweon Mi‐Na
Published: February 2010

Summary:  Dendritic cells (DCs) are key regulators of the immune system. They act as professional antigen‐presenting cells and are capable of activating naive T cells and stimulating the growth and differentiation of B cells. According to their molecular expression, DCs can be divided into several subsets with different functions. We focus on DC subsets expressing langerin, a C‐type lectin. Langerin expression is predominant in skin DCs, but langerin‐expressing DCs also exist in mucosal tissue and can be induced by immunization and sometimes by nutrient deficiency. Topical transcutaneous immunization induces langerin+CD8α− DCs in mesenteric lymph nodes (MLNs), which mediate the production of antigen‐specific immunoglobulin A antibody in the intestine. Yet, in one recent study, langerin+ DCs were generated in gut‐associated lymphoid tissue and contributed to the suppressive intestinal immune environment in the absence of retinoic acid. In this review, we focus on the phenotypic and functional characteristics of langerin+ DCs in the mucosal tissues, especially MLNs.
Retention and hydrolysable fraction of atmospherically deposited nitrogen in two contrasting forest soils in Switzerland
Authors: Morier I. , Schleppi P. , Saurer M. , Providoli I. , Guenat C.
Published: February 2010

Nitrogen (N) from atmospheric deposition has been shown to be mainly retained in the organic soil layers of temperate forest ecosystems, but the mechanisms and the physico‐chemical fractions involved are still poorly defined. We performed a hot‐acid hydrolysis on 15N‐labelled soil samples collected 1 week, 3 months and 1 year following a single in situ application of either 15NO3− or 15NH4+ in two montane forest ecosystems in Switzerland: Grandvillard (beech forest on a calcareous, well‐drained soil, 650 m above sea level) and Alptal (spruce forest on hydromorphic soil, 1200 m above sea level). After 15NH4+ application, recovery rates in the soil were smaller in Alptal than in Grandvillard through a large rate of absorption by mosses. At both sites, the organic soil layers retained most of the tracers at all three sampling times between 1 week and 1 year. In Grandvillard, the hydrolysable fraction (hydrolysable N : total N) of 15N was on average 79% and thus similar to the hydrolysable fraction of native N. This similarity is probably because of the rapid incorporation of N into organic molecules, followed by stabilization of the recalcitrant N pool through organo‐mineral bonds with soil minerals. In Alptal, the 15N hydrolysable fraction was greater than that of native N, particularly after 15NH4+ application (15N, 84%; native N, 72%). At both sites, 15N and the fraction of hydrolysable native N remained constant between 1 week and 1 year. This shows that both the recalcitrant and the hydrolysable pools are stable in the mid‐ to long‐term. We present arguments indicating that biological recycling through microbes and plants contributes to the stability of the hydrolysable N fraction.
Differential diagnosis of trichosporonosis using conventional histopathological stains and electron microscopy
Authors: Obana Yukari , Sano Makoto , Jike Toyoharu , Homma Taku , Nemoto Norimichi
Published: February 2010

Obana Y, Sano M, Jike T, Homma T & Nemoto N (2010) Histopathology56, 372–383

Differential diagnosis of trichosporonosis using conventional histopathological stains and electron microscopy

Aims:  Although Trichosporon is a causative pathogen of white piedra and summer‐type hypersensitivity pneumonitis, fatal disseminated trichosporonosis cases have recently been increasing. However, Trichosporon is often confused with other fungi, especially Candida, in pathological specimens. The aim was to determine the utility of histopathological stains and electron microscopy for diagnosing trichosporonosis.

Methods and results:  Autopsy cases of trichosporonosis, candidiasis, aspergillosis and cryptococcosis were investigated using histopathological stains and electron microscopy. Using Grocott’s method, Trichosporon was weakly detected compared with other fungi. In contrast, diluted periodic acid methenamine silver (PAM) stain clearly enhanced the intensity of staining of Trichosporon compared with Candida. Furthermore, Alcian blue and colloidal iron stains predominantly detected Trichosporon. Electron microscopy after staining with diluted PAM demonstrated that Trichosporon has a variety of hyphal sizes and laminar deposition of rough silver granules, whereas Candida has uniform pseudohyphae and fine granules. The average diameter and population area of the granules were significantly higher in Trichosporon compared with Candida (P < 0.01). Meanwhile, the laminar structure was preserved in the cell walls of Trichosporon without silver stains, whereas a low‐density structure was observed in Candida.

Conclusions:  Histopathological staining patterns and electron microscopic findings can facilitate the diagnosis of trichosporonosis.
Development and evaluation of a new paediatric blood transfusion protocol for Africa
Authors: Cheema B. , Molyneux E. M. , Emmanuel J. C. , M'baya B. , Esan M. , Kamwendo H. , Kalilani‐Phiri L. , Boele van Hensbroek M.
Published: February 2010

Severe anaemia is a common childhood emergency in developing countries. Practical evidence‐based guidance on when to transfuse, volume of transfusion and ideal duration of transfusion is lacking. The aim of this study is to develop a paediatric transfusion protocol for use in under‐resourced environments and evaluate its usability in a busy African hospital setting. A paediatric transfusion protocol based on the WHO Guidelines was developed for the Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH), Blantyre, Malawi. On the basis of simple bedside clinical features of respiratory, cardiovascular and neurological compromise, the protocol allocates children with severe anaemia (haemoglobin ≤ 6 g dL−1) to one of the three groups: complicated anaemia, uncomplicated anaemia and anaemia with severe malnutrition. Data were collected to monitor protocol adherence, delays to transfusion, post‐transfusion haemoglobin and need for repeat transfusion. Two‐hundred and fifteen severely anaemic children were enrolled: 180 complicated, 25 uncomplicated and 10 severely malnourished. With respect to protocol adherence, all children were allocated to the correct transfusion group; correct volume (±10%) was given in 89·3%; correct duration (±30 min) in 86·2% and correct overall rate (±10%) in 78·6%. Comparing old and new transfusion guidelines, a potential avoidable transfusion rate of 29% was found. This study demonstrates that clear and detailed transfusion guidelines based on simple bedside clinical features can be used in a very busy children's hospital in sub‐Saharan Africa. With minimal additional equipment, volume and duration of transfusion can be well controlled. Furthermore, having a protocol in place results in a significant reduction of avoidable transfusions.
Seasonality and edge effect determine herbivory risk according to different plant association models
Authors: Miranda M. , Díaz L. , Sicilia M. , Cristóbal I. , Cassinello J.
Published: February 2010

We report evidence of hierarchical resource selection by large herbivores and plant neighbouring effects in a Mediterranean ecosystem. Plant palatability was assessed according to herbivore foraging decisions. We hypothesize that under natural conditions large herbivores follow a hierarchical foraging pattern, starting at the landscape scale, and then selecting patches and individual plants. A between‐ and within‐patch selection study was carried out in an area formed by scrubland and pasture patches, connected by habitat edges. With regard to between‐patch selection, quality‐dependent resource selection is reported: herbivores mainly consume pasture in spring and woody plants in winter. Within‐patch selection was also observed in scrub habitats, influenced by season, relative patch palatability and edge effect. We defined a Proximity Index (PI) between palatable and unpalatable plants, which allowed verification of neighbouring effects. In spring, when the preferred food resource (i.e. herbs) is abundant, we observed that in habitat edges large herbivores basically select the relatively scarce palatable shrubs, whereas inside scrubland, unpalatable shrub consumption was related to increasing PI. In winter, a very different picture was observed; there was low consumption of palatable species surrounded by unpalatable species in habitat edges, where the latter were more abundant. These outcomes could be explained though different plant associations described in the literature. We conclude that optimal foraging theory provides a conceptual framework behind the observed interactions between plants and large herbivores in Mediterranean ecosystems.
Renal parenchymal thickness and urinary protein levels in patients with ureteropelvic junction obstruction after nephrostomy placement
Authors: Deng Gao‐Yan , Sun Jun‐Jie , Wang Pa , Mo Jia‐Cong
Published: February 2010

Objective:  To assess recovery of renal parenchymal thickness and urinary protein levels in patients with severely hydronephrotic kidneys after nephrostomy placement.

Methods:  Fourteen patients (median age 1 year, range 6 months–7 years) who underwent nephrostomy placement for unilateral ureteropelvic junction obstruction at our hospital between May 2007 and January 2009 were included in a retrospective analysis. All patients had severe hydronephrosis, with a median parenchymal thickness of 1.8 mm (range 1–2.5 mm). Kidney morphology was examined by ultrasound before the procedure and 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 8 weeks after. Urinary proteins (including albumin, immunoglobulin [IgG], α2‐macroglobulin, α1‐microglobulin, β2‐microglobulin [β2‐MG] and kappa chain) and creatinine levels were also tested during these follow‐up visits. Fifteen healthy children were assessed for urinary protein levels as well and made up the control group.

Results:  Parenchymal thickness increased within 4 weeks of nephrostomy placement. Kidney volumes were significantly decreased within 2 weeks. No further changes in morphology were detected after 4 weeks. Urinary α1‐microglobulin and β2‐MG levels decreased to baseline within 1 and 4 weeks, respectively. Urinary albumin, IgG, α2‐macroglobulin and kappa chain levels decreased gradually after nephrostomy, but did not return to baseline within 8 weeks.

Conclusions:  After nephrostomy placement, parenchymal thickness increases within 4 weeks, tubular function returns to normal earlier than glomerular function and glomerular membrane repair is inversely correlated with the severity of damage.
Experimental model for analyzing cutting resistance by various knives for cataract surgery
Authors: Ide Takeshi , O'Brien Terrence P
Published: February 2010

Background:  The trend in current cataract surgery towards clear corneal incision and sutureless procedures makes us realize the importance of wound construction. For optimal surgical outcomes, we need good surgical instruments. In this study, we employed a resistance recording system to analyze the characteristics of seven commercially available disposable cataract knives and to find clues for the future development of ‘good’ cataract knives.

Methods:  The cutting resistance was recorded during perpendicular penetrations of porcine scleral tissues by cataract knives. This data was processed and analysed mathematically with MATLAB software (The MathWorks, Inc, Natick, MA, USA) to see the resistance wave shapes and their derivatives to show the products' differing characteristics.

Results:  The wave shapes demonstrated product‐dependent characteristics. The average maximum penetration resistance varied from 86.4 to 233 mN. The first order time derivatives also showed distinctive wave shapes.

Conclusion:  We used an experimental model to analyze one aspect of a knife's character. This model can help give clues for future developments, although this is the initial step.
Novel and recurrent NDP gene mutations in familial cases of Norrie disease and X‐linked exudative vitreoretinopathy
Authors: Pelcastre Erika L , Villanueva‐Mendoza Cristina , Zenteno Juan C
Published: February 2010

Abstract

Purpose:  To present the results of molecular analysis of the NDP gene in Mexican families with Norrie disease (ND) and X‐linked familial exudative vitreoretinopathy (XL‐FEVR).

Methods:  Two unrelated families with ND and two with XL‐FEVR were studied. Clinical diagnosis was suspected on the basis of a complete ophthalmologic examination. Molecular methods included DNA isolation from peripheral blood leucocytes, polymerase chain reaction amplification and direct nucleotide sequencing analysis of the complete coding region and exon–intron junctions of NDP. Haplotype analysis using NDP‐linked microsatellites markers was performed in both ND families.

Results:  A novel Norrin missense mutation, p.Arg41Thr, was identified in two apparently unrelated families with ND. Haplotype analysis demonstrated that affected males in these two families shared the same ND‐linked haplotype, suggesting a common origin for this novel mutation. The previously reported p.Arg121Trp and p.Arg121Gln Norrin mutations were identified in the two families with XL‐FEVR.

Conclusion:  Our results expand the mutational spectrum in ND. This is the first report of ND resulting from mutation at arginine position 41 of Norrin. Interestingly, mutations at the same residue but resulting in a different missense change were previously described in subjects with XL‐FEVR (p.Arg41Lys) or persistent fetal vasculature syndrome (p.Arg41Ser), indicating that the novel p.Arg41Thr change causes a more severe retinal phenotype. Preliminary data suggest a founder effect for the ND p.Arg41Thr mutation in these two Mexican families.
Retreating Melaleuca swamp forests in Kakadu National Park: Evidence of synergistic effects of climate change and past feral buffalo impacts
Authors: BOWMAN DAVID M. J. S. , PRIOR LYNDA D. , DE LITTLE SIOBHAN C.
Published: February 2010

Melaleuca swamp forests form a fringe around seasonally inundated freshwater flood plains of Kakadu National Park (KNP). Previous studies based on the analysis of aerial photography reported an increase in woody plant cover on these flood plains, apparently associated with changed fire regimes, increased rainfall and possibly increased atmospheric CO2. In opposition to this woody vegetation encroachment past high densities of feral buffalo in the 1960 to mid 1980s changed the hydrology of the KNP flood plains, allowing increased penetration of saltwater causing extensive death of Melaleuca forests. Climate change has increased sea levels and there is concern that this will threaten the freshwater ecosystems of KNP. We hypothesized that Melaleuca forests that were previously impacted by high densities of feral buffalo have continued to decline because of salinization driven by sea level rise. We examined this hypothesis by overlaying georeferenced aerial photography taken in 1964, 1984 and 2004 in a geographic information environment, and then constructing generalized linear fixed effects and mixed effects models to rank the statistical strength of different drivers of Melaleuca forest contraction. We found that there has been a 5% overall contraction of Melaleuca forests over the last 50 years on our study sites, although the amount of contraction varied both geographically and temporally. The amount of Melaleuca forest contraction was greatest during the 1984–2004 interval, when buffalo densities were low. Contraction was greatest on the Melaleuca forest edges, at low‐lying sites, and where high densities of buffalo were apparent in 1964. These results suggest the enduring legacy effect of past buffalo damage will amplify the effects of sea level rise on the flood plains of KNP.
Influence of revegetation on predation rates by introduced red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) in south‐eastern Australian farmland
Authors: ARTHUR ANTHONY D. , HENRY STEPHEN , REID ALLAN
Published: February 2010

Interactions between wild carnivore abundance and landscape composition in agricultural landscapes are poorly understood despite their importance to both production and conservation. In Australia, introduced red foxes (Vulpes vulpes) prey on both native species and lambs in the temperate agricultural regions. Historically these areas were extensively cleared of native vegetation. Recently revegetation programmes have been implemented, but there is concern that this may benefit foxes and hence increase their impacts. We used an artificial prey placed in eight revegetated (6–12% cover) and 10 cleared (0–1.5% cover) landscapes of ∼700 ha to assess how these landscapes influenced fox predation rates. In June and August 2006 (winter) when we expect fox populations to be relatively stable following juvenile dispersal, predation rates were 1.5–2 times higher in revegetated landscapes than in cleared landscapes. We found no evidence of microhabitat effects on predation rates suggesting these landscape‐level differences were probably due to differences in fox population density. In April 2007 (autumn) the results were more variable, possibly indicating more transient populations including dispersing juveniles at this time. Our results suggest that the impact of foxes on highly vulnerable prey could increase with revegetation. However, the benefits of revegetation to prey may offset negative impacts of foxes and future work is required to assess the likely net effects.
Antioxidative effects of the acetone fraction and vanillic acid from Chenopodium murale on tomato plants
Authors: GHAREIB HAMADA RAGAB ABDO , ABDELHAMED MOHAMED SAYED , IBRAHIM OLA HAMMOUDA
Published: February 2010

From the active acetone fraction of Chenopodium murale, vanillic acid was isolated and identified, based on 1H and 13C nuclear magnetic resonance spectral analyses. Free phenolic compounds inside the active acetone were qualified and quantified by using high performance liquid chromatography analysis, which revealed the presence of seven compounds with an abundance of vanillic and p‐hydroxybenzoic acids. The allelopathic potential of the acetone fraction and vanillic acid was evaluated through laboratory bioassays against tomato plants. Our results showed that the allelopathic potential induced by low concentrations of the acetone fraction and vanillic acid stimulated the germination and growth of tomato and had stimulating effects on the activity of some antioxidant enzymes. We observed an enhancement in the activity of catalase, peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and polyphenol oxidase, as well as the content of soluble protein and phenolic glycoside. Meanwhile, the levels of free phenolic compounds, H2O2, and lipid peroxidation decreased. The highest stimulations were recorded at 50 p.p.m. of acetone fraction and 0.5 p.p.m. of vanillic acid. In contrast, the highest concentrations exerted negative effects on all the measured parameters to record the maximum value of inhibition at 400 p.p.m. of acetone fraction and 4 p.p.m. of vanillic acid. These results proved the antioxidative effects of active acetone and vanillic acid at low concentrations and their potent use as a stimulator for tomato germination and growth.
Developmental changes in presynaptic Ca2+ clearance kinetics and synaptic plasticity in mouse Schaffer collateral terminals
Authors: Scullin Chessa S. , Wilson Michael C. , Partridge L. Donald
Published: February 2010

Presynaptic Ca2+ influx pathways, cytoplasmic Ca2+ buffering proteins and Ca2+ extrusion processes undergo considerable change during the first postnatal month in rodent neurons. These changes may be critical in establishing short‐term plasticity at maturing presynaptic terminals where neurotransmitter release is directly dependent on the dynamics of cytoplasmic residual Ca2+ ([Ca2+]res). In particular, the robust paired‐pulse facilitation characteristic of adult neurons is almost entirely lacking in newborns. To examine developmental changes in processes controlling [Ca2+]res, we measured the timecourse of [Ca2+]res decay in presynaptic terminals of Schaffer collateral to CA1 synapses in acute hippocampal slices following single and paired orthodromic stimuli in the stratum radiatum. Developmental changes were observed in both the rise time and slow exponential decay components of the response to single stimuli such that this decay was larger and faster in the adult. Furthermore, we observed a greater caffeine‐sensitive basal Ca2+ store, which was differentially affected when active uptake into the endoplasmic reticulum was blocked, in the presynaptic fields of the Schaffer collateral to CA1 terminals of P6 and younger mice when compared to adults. These transitions in [Ca2+]res dynamics occurred gradually over the first weeks of postnatal life and correlated with changes in short‐term plasticity.
A placebo‐controlled study investigating the efficacy and safety of the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor UK‐369,003 for the treatment of men with lower urinary tract symptoms associated with clinical benign prostatic hyperplasia
Authors: Tamimi Nihad A.M. , Mincik Ivan , Haughie Scott , Lamb Janice , Crossland Anna , Ellis Peter
Published: February 2010

Study Type – Therapy (RCT) Level of Evidence 1b

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of the phosphodiesterase type 5 inhibitor UK‐369,003 for the treatment of lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in men with and without erectile dysfunction (ED).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a multicentre, double‐blind, placebo‐ and active‐controlled, parallel‐group study conducted across 45 centres in North and South America, Europe, and Australia. In all, 418 men aged ≥40 years with a clinical diagnosis of BPH, an International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) of ≥13, and maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) of 5–15 mL/s for a voided volume of >150 mL were stratified into two groups (with and without ED) and randomized to one of seven treatment groups, i.e. UK‐369,003 at 10, 25, 50 or 100 mg modified release (MR), UK‐369,003 40 mg immediate release (IR), tamsulosin 0.4 mg prolonged release, or placebo, for 12 weeks. The primary study endpoint was the change in total IPSS after 12 weeks of treatment. Secondary efficacy measures were IPSS storage and voiding subscores, Qmax, International Index of Erectile Function–Erectile Function domain, questions 5 and 6 of the Quality of Erection Questionnaire, the International Consultation on Incontinence Questionnaire–Male LUTS, the patient‐reported treatment‐impact questionnaire, and a bladder diary in which patients recorded the number of voluntary urinary voids, volume of urine voided per micturition, leaks, and urgency episodes.

RESULTS

The mean change in the IPSS from baseline at week 12 for UK‐369,003 100 mg MR and 40 mg IR was −2.91 and −2.50 better than placebo, respectively. There was increasing efficacy with increasing dose of the MR formulation. For UK‐369,003 100 mg MR, Qmax improved by 2.10 mL/s compared with 0.84 mL/s in the placebo group.

CONCLUSIONS

UK‐369,003 had clinically meaningful efficacy and was well tolerated in men with LUTS associated with BPH. The Bayesian statistical analysis gave high posterior probabilities for true differences between UK‐369,003 100 mg MR and placebo. There was greater preference, satisfaction and willingness to use UK‐369,003 again for all treatment groups compared with placebo.
Lifetime depression and diabetes self‐management in women with Type 2 diabetes: a case–control study
Authors: Wagner J. A. , Tennen H. , Osborn C. Y.
Published: February 2010

Diabet. Med. 27, 713–717 (2010)

Aims  Little is known about the association between lifetime history of major depressive disorder (L‐MDD) and diabetes self‐management, particularly when depression is remitted. We examined the association between L‐MDD and diabetes self‐management in women with Type 2 diabetes who were not depressed at the time of assessment.

Methods  L‐MDD was assessed with structured psychiatric interview. Participants completed paper‐and‐pencil measures of demographics, diabetes‐related distress, self‐care behaviours, healthcare utilization and diabetes self‐efficacy.

Results  One‐hundred and fifty‐three women participated; 41% had L‐MDD. Compared with their never‐depressed counterparts, women with L‐MDD had more diabetes distress, reported lower overall rates of self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) and greater tendency to skip SMBG, had lower diet adherence and were less likely to have seen a primary care provider in the past year. Diabetes self‐efficacy mediated the relationship between L‐MDD and self‐management.

Conclusions  Interventions to promote self‐management for patients with L‐MDD may be warranted.
Prevalence of obesity and overweight among adults in Iran
Authors: Ayatollahi S. M. T. , Ghoreshizadeh Z.
Published: February 2010

The prevalence of overweight and obesity in most developed and developing countries have been increasing markedly over the past two decades. This increase includes all ages, genders, racial and ethnic groups, income, and educational levels. This study examined the prevalence of overweight and obesity among adults aged 25–55 years in Shiraz (Southern Iran). The data are based on a random multistage sample survey of 2282 married adults (1141 pairs) living is Shiraz, whose heights and weights were measured in the 2002–2003 academic year. The prevalence of overweight or obesity (body mass index ≥ 25) was 49.7% in men and 63.9% in women. The prevalence of obesity (body mass index ≥ 30) was 10.5% and 22.5% in men and women, respectively, which shows an increased secular change of 5.8% in men and 17.4% in women during a 14‐year period. Overweight and obesity are common in Iran. Obesity and overweight were significantly more common among women than among men (P‐valve = 0.000). There is a need to establish programmes for prevention and treatment of obesity especially Iranian's women.
The interleukin‐1 cluster gene region is associated with multiple sclerosis in an Italian Caucasian population
Authors: Borzani I. , Tola M. R. , Caniatti L. , Collins A. , De Santis G. , Luiselli D. , Mamolini E. , Scapoli C.
Published: February 2010

Background:  Polymorphisms of the interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) gene family have been proposed as potential variants for different diseases including multiple sclerosis (MS). With respect to MS, IL‐1 beta (−511 C/T; rs16944), IL‐1 beta (+3954 C/T; rs1143634), IL‐1 alpha (−889 C/T; rs1800587), IL‐1 alpha (+4845 G/T; rs17561), and the variable number of tandem repeats in intron 2 of the IL‐1 receptor antagonist (IL‐1RN) gene polymorphisms have been studied in different ethnic groups, leading to conflicting results.

Methods:  This study investigates the association between IL‐1 genes and MS by means of 70 markers spanning the 1.1 Mb region where the IL‐1 genes map and exploring both the linkage disequilibrium (LD) and the haplotype structure in a case–control design including 410 subjects (160 patients and 250 controls).

Results:  From allelic/genotypic tests, significant association was found for several polymorphisms including the IL‐1 beta (−511 C/T) variant (P‐adjusted = 4.5 × 10−4) and some polymorphisms around the IL‐1RN gene. The ‘block‐step’ pattern obtained from both the LD map and pairwise analysis identifies four LD regions. Region 1 showed a significant association with MS for the global test (P < 0.0001) and haplotypes containing the IL‐1 beta (−511 C/T) variant still demonstrate highly significant association with disease (P‐value range: 9.9 × 10−5 to 0.02).

Conclusions:  Our findings support the existence of a causative variant for MS within this candidate region in a representative Italian Caucasian population and, in particular, the role of the IL‐1 beta (−511 C/T) variant warrants further investigation.
Does childhood anxiety evoke maternal control? A genetically informed study
Authors: Eley Thalia C. , Napolitano Maria , Lau Jennifer Y.F. , Gregory Alice M.
Published: February 2010

Background:  Despite theoretical and empirical support for an association between maternal control and child anxiety, few studies have examined the origins of this association. Furthermore, none use observer‐ratings of maternal control within a genetically informative design. This study addressed three questions: 1) do children who experience maternal control report higher anxiety levels than those who do not?; 2) to what extent do genetic and environmental factors influence maternal control and child anxiety?; 3) to what extent do genetic and environmental factors influence the associations between child anxiety and maternal control?

Method:  Five hundred and thirty 8‐year‐old children (from 265 twin pairs) and their mothers were observed participating in an ‘etch‐a‐sketch’ task from which maternal control was rated. Children rated their anxiety using the Screen for Child Anxiety Related Emotional Disorders.

Results:  Children who experienced maternal behaviour rated as ‘extreme control’ reported higher anxiety levels than those who did not. Maternal control was highly heritable (A = .63), high self‐rated anxiety less so (h2g = .36). The overlap between high child anxiety and maternal control was primarily due to shared genetic factors.

Conclusions:  These results suggest that maternal control is likely to have been elicited by children with high levels of anxiety.
Lactobionic acid in a natural alkylpolyglucoside‐based vehicle: assessing safety and efficacy aspects in comparison to glycolic acid
Authors: Tasic‐Kostov Marija , Savic Snezana , Lukic Milica , Tamburic Slobodanka , Pavlovic Milos , Vuleta Gordana
Published: February 2010

Background/aims  Lactobionic acid (LA) is a newer cosmeceutical active belonging to the class of alpha‐hydroxyacids (AHAs), showing advantages over them. The aim of part I of this study was to compare efficacy and irritation potential of LA vs. glycolic acid (GA) from two types of vehicles – gel and emulsion. In part II, effects of LA‐containing emulsions based on a new, natural emulsifier of alkylpolyglucoside (APG) type were evaluated.

Methods  Skin bioengineering was used on 77 healthy volunteers to assess: color as erythema and melanin (MI) index, transepidermal water loss, electrical capacitance and pH of the skin. In part I of the study, the parameters were measured after occlusion and periodically during 2 weeks of test samples application; in part II parameters were measured periodically during 4 weeks.

Results/conclusion  LA‐containing samples has produced better skin performance when compared with corresponding GA‐containing ones, particularly the lack of both skin irritation and skin barrier impairment. When used in vehicles based on a new APG‐emulsifier, LA and GA have shown better efficacy, emphasizing the importance of vehicle on the effects of topical actives. LA (6%) in the emulsion based on APGs could be proposed as an alternative to low‐molecular AHAs in cosmeceuticals.
Invasive Non‐Native Species’ Provision of Refugia for Endangered Native Species
Authors: CHIBA SATOSHI
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  The influence of non‐native species on native ecosystems is not predicted easily when interspecific interactions are complex. Species removal can result in unexpected and undesired changes to other ecosystem components. I examined whether invasive non‐native species may both harm and provide refugia for endangered native species. The invasive non‐native plant Casuarina stricta has damaged the native flora and caused decline of the snail fauna on the Ogasawara Islands, Japan. On Anijima in 2006 and 2009, I examined endemic land snails in the genus Ogasawarana. I compared the density of live specimens and frequency of predation scars (from black rats[Rattus rattus]) on empty shells in native vegetation and Casuarina forests. The density of land snails was greater in native vegetation than in Casuarina forests in 2006. Nevertheless, radical declines in the density of land snails occurred in native vegetation since 2006 in association with increasing predation by black rats. In contrast, abundance of Ogasawarana did not decline in the Casuarina forest, where shells with predation scars from rats were rare. As a result, the density of snails was greater in the Casuarina forest than in native vegetation. Removal of Casuarina was associated with an increased proportion of shells with predation scars from rats and a decrease in the density of Ogasawarana. The thick and dense litter of Casuarina appears to provide refugia for native land snails by protecting them from predation by rats; thus, eradication of rats should precede eradication of Casuarina. Adaptive strategies, particularly those that consider the removal order of non‐native species, are crucial to minimizing the unintended effects of eradication on native species. In addition, my results suggested that in some cases a given non‐native species can be used to mitigate the impacts of other non‐native species on native species.
Perinatal Outcomes of Women Intending to Give Birth in Birth Centers in Australia
Authors: Laws Paula J. , Tracy Sally K. , Sullivan Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  Background:  A recent Australian study showed perinatal mortality was lower among women who gave birth in a birth center than in a comparable low‐risk group of women who gave birth in a hospital. The current study used the same large population database to investigate whether perinatal outcomes were improved for women intending to give birth in a birth center at the onset of labor, regardless of the actual place of birth.

Methods:  Data were obtained from the National Perinatal Data Collection (NPDC) in Australia. The study included 822,955 mothers who gave birth during the 5‐year period, 2001 to 2005, and their 836,919 babies. Of these, 22,222 women (2.7%) intended to give birth in a birth center at the onset of labor. Maternal and perinatal factors and outcomes were compared according to the intended place of birth. Data were not available on congenital anomalies, or cause, or timing of death.

Results:  Women intending to give birth in a birth center at the onset of labor had lower rates of intervention and of adverse perinatal outcomes compared with women intending to give birth in a hospital, including less preterm birth and low birthweight. No statistically significant difference was found in perinatal mortality for term babies of mothers intending to give birth in a birth center compared with term babies of low‐risk women intending to give birth in a hospital (1.3 per 1,000 births [99% CI = 0.66, 1.95] vs 1.7 per 1,000 births [99% CI = 1.50, 1.80], respectively).

Conclusions:  Term babies of women who intended to give birth in a birth center were less likely to be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit or special care nursery, and no significant difference was found in other perinatal outcomes compared with term babies of low‐risk women who intended to give birth in a hospital labor ward. Birth center care remains a viable option for eligible women giving birth at term. (BIRTH 37:1 March 2010)
What are the Risks Associated with Formula Feeding? A Re‐Analysis and Review
Authors: McNiel Melinda E. , Labbok Miriam H. , Abrahams Sheryl W.
Published: February 2010

Abstract:  Background:  Most infant feeding studies present infant formula use as “standard” practice, supporting perceptions of formula feeding as normative and hindering translation of current research into counseling messages supportive of exclusive breastfeeding. To promote optimal counseling, and to challenge researchers to use exclusive breastfeeding as the standard, we have reviewed the scientific literature on exclusive breastfeeding and converted reported odds ratios to allow discussion of the “risks” of any formula use.

Methods:  Studies indexed in PubMed that investigated the association between exclusive breastfeeding and otitis media, asthma, types 1 and 2 diabetes, atopic dermatitis, and infant hospitalization secondary to lower respiratory tract diseases were reviewed. Findings were reconstructed with exclusive breastfeeding as the standard, and levels of significance calculated.

Results:  When exclusive breastfeeding is set as the normative standard, the re‐calculated odds ratios communicate the risks of any formula use. For example, any formula use in the first  6 months is significantly associated with increased incidence of otitis media (OR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.19, 2.70 and OR: 4.55, 95% CI: 1.64, 12.50 in the available studies; pooled OR for any formula in the first 3 mo: 2.00, 95% CI: 1.40, 2.78). Only shorter durations of exclusive breastfeeding are available to use as standards for calculating the effect of “any formula use” for type 1 diabetes, asthma, atopic dermatitis, and hospitalization secondary to lower respiratory tract infections.

Conclusions:  Exclusive breastfeeding is an optimal practice, compared with which other infant feeding practices carry risks. Further studies on the influence of presenting exclusive breastfeeding as the standard in research studies and counseling messages are recommended. (BIRTH 37:1 March 2010)
Editorial: Unpleasant Truths about Salt Restriction
Authors: Ok Ercan , Mees Evert J. Dorhout
Published: February 2010

Most chronic dialysis patients are volume overloaded. This has two consequences. The first is hypertension. Even though the pathophysiologic mechanism causing this blood pressure (BP) elevation is well known, many patients are treated with antihypertensive drugs. These are often ineffective and, even if they lower BP, they do not eliminate its cause and the associated cardiac damage. But at least as harmful to the heart as the pressure load is the volume load. In the early phase of dialysis, this may lead to acute pulmonary edema, which is often erroneously referred to as “heart failure.” Later, it causes dilatation of the heart compartments, stretching of their walls, and regurgitation through the valves. This dilated cardiomyopathy eventually leads to liver congestion, decreased ejection fraction, and low blood pressure. It is considered to be irreversible and incorrectly called “uremic” by many authors, but can be markedly improved and even cured by judicious ultrafiltration. This may take many months, since the heart muscle needs time to become “remodeled.” All these unwanted effects could be prevented by strong dietary salt restriction. We tried to analyze why this and other “old truths” are being forgotten. While the reasons are clearly multifactorial, the unfortunate introduction of the Kt/V concept seems the most important one. The claim that adequacy of dialysis can be solely defined by urea removal, disregarding all other factors, above all salt retention, has diverted the nephrologist’s attention from the most important issue, giving them the false conviction that the prescribed treatment is “adequate.”
Uncommon Complications of Long‐Term Hemodialysis Catheters: Adhesion, Migration, and Perforation by the Catheter Tip
Authors: Sequeira Adrian , Sachdeva Bharat , Abreo Kenneth
Published: February 2010

Use of long‐term dialysis catheters (e.g., tunneled dialysis catheters) predisposes patients to complications. While catheter‐related bacteremia is one of the commonest encountered complication, there are a series of rare complications, namely catheter adherence to the vessel wall, catheter fracture, and vessel perforation, that can occur. This article attempts to discuss such complications with emphasis on potential risk factors, clinical presentations, and management options.
ASDIN: Controversial Vascular Access Surveillance Mandate
Authors: Paulson William D. , Work Jack
Published: February 2010

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) recently revised the requirements that end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) dialysis facilities must meet to be certified under Medicare. The CMS ESRD Interpretive Guidance Update states that the dialysis facility must now have an ongoing program of hemodialysis vascular access surveillance. Surveillance usually refers to monthly access blood flow or static dialysis venous pressure measurements combined with preemptive correction of stenosis. However, surveillance as currently practiced does not accurately predict synthetic graft thrombosis or prolong graft life. There is limited evidence that monthly surveillance may reduce native arteriovenous fistula thrombosis without prolonging fistula life, but the effect on thrombosis awaits further confirmation. Thus, the CMS surveillance requirement is not evidence based. We recommend the following changes to the ESRD Interpretive Guidance Update: only monitoring (e.g., physical examination) is required, whereas the proper role of surveillance awaits the results of further research. Such changes would allow nephrologists to apply the clinical judgment and individualized care that is most beneficial to their patients.
Telomere length in relation to insulin resistance, inflammation and obesity among Arab youth
Authors: Al‐Attas OS , Al‐Daghri N , Bamakhramah A , Shaun Sabico S , McTernan P , Huang TT‐K
Published: February 2010

Aim:  The aim of this study was to determine the associations of telomere length to markers of obesity, insulin resistance and inflammation in Saudi children.

Methods:  A total of 69 boys and 79 girls, aged 5–12 years, participated in this cross‐sectional study. Anthropometrics were measured. Serum glucose and lipid profile were measured using routine laboratory methods. Serum insulin, leptin, adiponectin, resistin, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha and active plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 were quantified using customized multiplex assay kits. C‐reactive protein and angiotensin II were quantified using ELISA. Leucocyte telomere length was examined by quantitative real time PCR utilizing IQ cycler.

Results:  Mean telomere length was significantly shorter in obese boys compared with their lean counterparts (p = 0.049), not in girls. It was not associated to insulin resistance, adipocytokines and markers of inflammation. In girls, the significant predictor of telomere length was waist circumference, explaining 24% of variance (p = 0.041) while in boys, systolic blood pressure explained 84% of the variance (p = 0.01).

Conclusion: Childhood obesity in boys corresponds to shorter leucocyte telomere length which is not evident in girls. The association of leucocyte telomere length to blood pressure and waist circumference in children suggests clinical implications as to the contribution of these parameters in premature ageing.
Autoregulatory binding sites in the zebrafish six3a promoter region define a new recognition sequence for Six3 proteins
Authors: Suh Clotilde S. , Ellingsen Staale , Austbø Lars , Zhao Xiao‐Feng , Seo Hee‐Chan , Fjose Anders
Published: February 2010

The homeodomain (HD) transcription factor Six3, which is a member of the Six/Sine oculis family, is essential for development of the eyes and forebrain in vertebrates. It has recently been claimed that the HDs of Six3 and other members of the Six family have a common recognition sequence, TGATAC. However, a different recognition sequence including the typical TAAT core motif, which has not yet been fully defined, has also been proposed for the Six3 HD in mice. Our study of the zebrafish orthologue six3a, which has an identical HD, shows that it binds in vitro to multiple TAAT‐containing sites within its promoter region. Comparison of the different binding affinities for these sequences identifies three high‐affinity sites with a common TAATGTC motif. Notably, this new recognition sequence, which is supported by our analysis of the influence of single‐nucleotide substitutions on the DNA‐binding affinity, is distinct from all of the DNA‐binding specificities previously described in surveys of HDs. In addition, our comparison of Six3a HD binding to the novel TAATGTC motif and the common recognition sequence of Six family HDs (TGATAC) shows very similar affinities, suggesting two distinct DNA‐binding modes. Transient reporter assays of the six3a promoter in zebrafish embryos also indicate that the three high‐affinity sites are involved in autoregulation. In support of this, chromatin immunoprecipitation experiments show enrichment of Six3a binding to a six3a promoter fragment containing two clustered high‐affinity sites. These findings provide strong evidence that the TAATGTC motif is an important target sequence for vertebrate Six3 proteins in vivo.