bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Understanding spatial connectivity of individuals with non-uniform population density
Authors: Wang Pu , González Marta C.
Published: July 2009

We construct a two-dimensional geometric graph connecting individuals placed in space within a given contact distance. The individuals are distributed using a measured country’s density of population. We observe that while large clusters (group of individuals connected) emerge within some regions, they are trapped in detached urban areas owing to the low population density of the regions bordering them. To understand the emergence of a giant cluster that connects the entire population, we compare the empirical geometric graph with the one generated by placing the same number of individuals randomly in space. We find that, for small contact distances, the empirical distribution of population dominates the growth of connected components, but no critical percolation transition is observed in contrast to the graph generated by a random distribution of population. Our results show that contact distances from real-world situations as for WIFI and Bluetooth connections drop in a zone where a fully connected cluster is not observed, hinting that human mobility must play a crucial role in contact-based diseases and wireless viruses’ large-scale spreading.
Variable Clinical Phenotypes of α-Thalassemia Syndromes
Authors: Singer Sylvia Titi
Published: July 2009

Genetic mutations of the α genes are common worldwide. In Asia and particularly Southeast Asia, they can result in clinically significant types of α-thalassemia, namely hemoglobin (Hb) H disease and Hb Bart's hydrops fetalis. The latter is generally a fatal intrauterine condition, while Hb H disease results in clinical complications that are frequently overlooked. The high prevalence of the carrier state and the burden of these diseases (and other α-thalassemia variants) call for more attention for improved screening methods and better care.
Study of human metapneumovirus‐associated lower respiratory tract infections in Egyptian adults
Authors: El Sayed Zaki Maysaa , Raafat Douaa , El‐Metaal Amal Abd , Ismail Mona
Published: July 2009

There is a deficiency in the data concerning the role of hMPV in lower respiratory tract infections in adults, and until now there has been no data available regarding the prevalence of hMPV in adults in our region. In the present study the association of hMPV with varieties of lower respiratory tract disorders in immunocompetent adult patients, either alone or with bacterial pathogens, has been highlighted.

Eighty‐eight patients were included in the study. They included 46 males and 42 females with an age range of 38–65 years. Patients presented with lower respiratory tract infections associated with acute exacerbation of asthma (67%), pneumonia (17%), and acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive lung diseases.

Sputum and nasopharyngeal samples were obtained from the patients and subjected to a full microbiological study. In addition, detection of hMPV was performed by nested reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction.

The pathogens isolated were Streptococcus pneumoniae 46.6%, Staphylococci aureus 35.2%, and human metapneumovirus 13.6%. Influenza virus and rhinovirus were each isolated from 4.5% of patients. Human metapneumovirus was associated with S. pneumoniae in 4.5% in studied patients, while in 9.1% it was the only pathogen found in those patients. The commonest clinical condition with significant association with human metapneumovirus was pneumonia.

The clinical and laboratory studies demonstrated an association between lower respiratory tract infections in adults and hMPV either as sole pathogen or in association with Streptococcus pneumoniae. It was a common pathogen in community‐acquired pneumonia.
The spatial epidemiology of cocaine, methamphetamine and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) use: a demonstration using a population measure of community drug load derived from municipal wastewater
Authors: Banta‐Green Caleb J. , Field Jennifer A. , Chiaia Aurea C. , Sudakin Daniel L. , Power Laura , De Montigny Luc
Published: July 2009

Aims  To determine the utility of community‐wide drug testing with wastewater samples as a population measure of community drug use and to test the hypothesis that the association with urbanicity would vary for three different stimulant drugs of abuse.

Design and participants  Single‐day samples were obtained from a convenience sample of 96 municipalities representing 65% of the population of the State of Oregon.

Measurements  Chemical analysis of 24‐hour composite influent samples for benzoylecgonine (BZE, a cocaine metabolite), methamphetamine and 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA). The distribution of community index drug loads accounting for total wastewater flow (i.e. dilution) and population are reported.

Findings  The distribution of wastewater‐derived drug index loads was found to correspond with expected epidemiological drug patterns. Index loads of BZE were significantly higher in urban areas and below detection in many rural areas. Conversely, methamphetamine was present in all municipalities, with no significant differences in index loads by urbanicity. MDMA was at quantifiable levels in fewer than half the communities, with a significant trend towards higher index loads in more urban areas.

Conclusion  This demonstration provides the first evidence of the utility of wastewater‐derived community drug loads for spatial analyses. Such data have the potential to improve dramatically the measurement of the true level and distribution of a range of drugs. Drug index load data provide information for all people in a community and are potentially applicable to a much larger proportion of the total population than existing measures.
Extended follow‐up of a phase 2 trial of bortezomib alone and in combination with dexamethasone for the frontline treatment of multiple myeloma
Authors: Jagannath Sundar , Durie Brian G. M. , Wolf Jeffrey Lee , Camacho Elber S. , Irwin David , Lutzky Jose , McKinley Marti , Potts Phyllis , Gabayan Afshin Eli , Mazumder Amitabha , Crowley John , Vescio Robert
Published: July 2009

High‐quality response to multiple myeloma (MM) therapy can be predictive for improved outcomes. Novel agents may improve the depth of responses and therefore prolong survival. We report on the extended follow‐up of a phase II study in frontline MM of bortezomib alone and in combination with dexamethasone. Forty‐nine previously untreated, symptomatic MM patients received bortezomib 1·3 mg/m2, days 1, 4, 8, 11, for up to six 3‐week cycles. High‐dose dexamethasone was added for patients not reaching either a partial response after cycle 2 or a complete response (CR) after cycle 4. The overall response rate in 48 evaluable patients was 90%, with 42% achieving at least a very good partial response, of which 19% were CR/near CR. Thirty‐six patients received high‐dose dexamethasone with 28 (77%) showing improved response. Twenty‐seven patients have undergone successful stem‐cell transplantation (SCT). After median follow‐up of 49 months, 15 patients have died; median overall survival has still not been reached, with an estimated survival at 4 years of 67%. Overall survival with and without SCT was not different (P = 0·54). Grade 3/4 adverse events included neutropenia (10%), sensory neuropathy (6% grade 3), neuropathic pain (4% grade 3), and diarrhoea (4% grade 3). Bortezomib ± dexamethasone is an effective and well‐tolerated induction regimen for the frontline treatment of MM.
Pretreatment angiogenic cytokines predict response to chemoimmunotherapy in patients with chronic lymphocytic leukaemia
Authors: Shanafelt Tait D. , Byrd John C. , LaPlant Betsy , Zent Clive S. , Call Tim , Secreto Charla , Grever Michael R. , Lin Thomas S. , Kay Neil E.
Published: July 2009

Serum levels of pro‐[vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)] and anti‐[thrombospondin‐1 (TSP)] angiogenic cytokines were prospectively measured in a phase II trial of chemoimmunotherapy (CIT) for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) patients (n = 56). Pretreatment VEGF levels were lower among patients who achieved complete remission (CR) or nodular partial remission (nPR) relative to those with partial remission (PR) or stable/progressive disease (median 122·0 pg/ml vs. 246·8 pg/ml; P = 0·03). VEGF:TSP ratio was lower (anti‐angiogenic phenotype) among patients who achieved CR/nPR. The pretreatment VEGF:TSP ratio also correlated with overall survival (P = 0·008). A pro‐angiogenic profile appears associated with diminished response and inferior survival in CLL patients receiving CIT.
Human immature dental pulp stem cells share key characteristic features with limbal stem cells
Authors: Monteiro B. G. , Serafim R. C. , Melo G. B. , Silva M. C. P. , Lizier N. F. , Maranduba C. M. C. , Smith R. L. , Kerkis A. , Cerruti H. , Gomes J. A. P. , Kerkis I.
Published: July 2009

Objectives:  Limbal stem cells (LSC) are self‐renewing, highly proliferative cells in vitro, which express a set of specific markers and in vivo have the capacity to reconstruct the entire corneal epithelium in cases of ocular surface injury. Currently, LSC transplantation is a commonly used procedure in patients with either uni‐ or bilateral total limbal stem cells deficiency (TLSCD). Although LSC transplantation holds great promise for patients, several problems need to be overcome. In order to find an alternative source of cells that can partially substitute LSC in cornea epithelium reconstruction, we aimed at investigating whether human immature dental pulp stem cells (hIDPSC) would present similar key characteristics as LSC and whether they could be used for corneal surface reconstruction in a rabbit TLSCD model.

Materials:  We used hIDPSC, which co‐express mesenchymal and embryonic stem cell markers and present the capacity to differentiate into derivative cells of the three germinal layers. TLSCD was induced by chemical burn in one eye of rabbits. After 30 days, the opaque tissue formed was removed by superficial keratectomy. Experimental group received undifferentiated hIDPSC, while control group only received amniotic membrane (AM). Both groups were sacrificed after 3 months.

Results and conclusions:  We have demonstrated, using immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, that hIDPSCs express markers in common with LSC, such as ABCG2, integrin β1, vimentin, p63, connexin 43 and cytokeratins 3/12. They were also capable of reconstructing the eye surface after induction of unilateral TLSCD in rabbits, as shown by morphological and immunohistochemical analysis using human‐specific antibodies against limbal and corneal epithelium. Our data suggest that hIDPSCs share similar characteristics with LSC and might be used as a potential alternative source of cells for corneal reconstruction.
Promotion of stem cell proliferation by vegetable peptone
Authors: Lee J. , Lee J. , Hwang H. , Jung E. , Huh S. , Hyun J. , Park D.
Published: July 2009

Objectives:  Technical limitations and evolution of therapeutic applications for cell culture‐derived products have accelerated elimination of animal‐derived constituents from such products to minimize inadvertent introduction of microbial contaminants, such as fungi, bacteria or viruses. The study described here was conducted to investigate the proliferative effect of vegetable peptone on adult stem cells in the absence of serum, and its possible mechanisms of action.

Materials and methods:  Cell viability and proliferation were determined using the MTT assay and Click‐iT™ EdU flow cytometry, respectively. In addition, changes in expression of cytokine genes were analysed using MILLIPLEX™ human cytokine enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay kit.

Results:  Viability of cord blood‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (CB‐MSC) and adipose tissue‐derived stem cells (ADSC) increased significantly when treated with the peptone. In addition, median value of the group treated with peptone shifted to the right when compared to the untreated control group. Furthermore, quantitative analysis of the cytokines revealed that production of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), transforming growth factor‐beta1 (TGF‐β1), and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) increased significantly in response to treatment with our vegetable peptone in both CB‐MSCs and ADSCs.

Conclusions:  Our findings revealed that the vegetable peptone promotes proliferation of CB‐MSCs and ADSCs. In addition, results of this study suggest that induction of stem cell proliferation by vegetable peptone is likely to be related to its induction of VEGF, TGF‐β1, and IL‐6 expression.
Inflammatory biomarkers in airways of patients with severe asthma compared with non‐severe asthma
Authors: Macedo P. , Hew M. , Torrego A. , Jouneau S. , Oates T. , Durham A. , Chung K. F.
Published: July 2009

Background
About 5–10% of patients with asthma suffer from poorly‐controlled disease despite corticosteroid (CS) therapy.

Objective
We determined whether there were any differences in inflammatory biomarkers between severe and non‐severe asthma patients.

Methods
Nineteen severe and 20 non‐severe asthma patients were recruited and underwent collection of induced sputum, bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and bronchial biopsies.

Results
Biopsy results showed no differences in eosinophils (major basic protein positive), neutrophils, macrophages, T cells and mast cells in the bronchial submucosa. However, subbasement membrane (SBM) thickness and smooth muscle area were increased in the biopsies. No significant differences were observed in the induced sputum inflammatory cells. In BAL fluid, there was a significant increase in neutrophils but a significant decrease in macrophages. Eosinophil counts were non‐significantly increased threefold in both sputum and BAL in severe asthma. Levels of IL‐8 and IL‐13 in sputum supernatants were similar in both groups of asthma patients. There was a significant inverse correlation between post‐bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in 1 s and provocative concentration of methacholine causing a 20% fall in FEV1 with SBM thickness.

Conclusion
Differences in inflammatory cells were observed mainly in terms of increased neutrophils and reduction in macrophage numbers in BAL fluid with a trend towards increased eosinophils in severe asthma compared with non‐severe asthma. However, the most notable features are the increase in features of airway wall remodelling of SBM thickness and smooth muscle area.
Review of carrot fly control in Northern Europe – 20091
Authors: Collier R.
Published: July 2009

In February 2009, the European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization (EPPO) held a workshop to discuss the management of carrot fly (Psila rosae) within Europe. Prior to the workshop, participants completed a questionnaire about carrot fly and current control methods and some of the information is summarised in this paper. In general, this pest is controlled adequately at present, but there is a heavy reliance on insecticides. The responses to the questionnaire highlighted a number of issues, in particular: the limited range and efficacy of the insecticides available at present, concerns about the availability of effective control measures in the future and a need for improvements in the targeting of treatments through forecasting and monitoring and the use of treatment thresholds.
Identification of pathotypes of Synchytrium endobioticum found in infested fields in Turkey
Authors: Çakır E. , Van Leeuwen G. C. M. , Flath K. , Meffert J. P. , Janssen W. A. P. , Maden S.
Published: July 2009

Pathotypes of four isolates of Synchytrium endobioticum collected from the infested areas of Turkey were determined using Glynne–Lemmerzahl and Spieckermann test methods. Two isolates (Ordu 1 and Nevşehir 1) were tested by the Glynne–Lemmerzahl method in Germany. Ordu 1 was assigned as pathotype 1(D1) whereas the other isolate gave different results in 2 years of testing [pathotype 6(O1) or 18(T1)]. Two other isolates (Nevşehir 2 and Nevşehir 3) were tested using the Spieckermann method in Netherlands. Neither of these last two isolates tested were found to belong to the pathotypes known from Western Europe. The isolates Nevşehir 2 and Nevşehir 3 were given a new, unique code: 38 (Nevşehir).
Distribution du système souterrain et régénération végétative (à partir des fragments de rhizome) de Salpichroa origanifolia (Lamarck) Baillon/ Thellung (Solanaceae)
Authors: Omezine A. , Skiri‐Harzalla F.
Published: July 2009

En Tunisie, la capacité des rhizomes de Salpichroa origanifoliaà se régénérer a étéétudiée dans une serre vitrée de l’Institut Supérieur d’Agronomie de Chott‐Marien (Sousse). Des essais ont également été conduits dans un verger d’agrumes pour étudier la distribution spatiale du système souterrain de la plante. Ces études ont mis en évidence des comportements biologiques pouvant être utilisés dans la gestion de cette adventice des cultures. Le système rhizomateux est localisé dans les 10 premiers centimètres de la couche superficielle du sol et il est rare de rencontrer des rhizomes dans les couches profondes. Toutefois, le système racinaire peut descendre à des profondeurs beaucoup plus importantes, jusqu’à 40 cm. Les rhizomes ont une capacité de croissance très élevée et forment de nombreux bourgeons. Cette capacité régénérative est très importante si les rhizomes sont sectionnés en petits fragments. Les longs fragments de rhizomes donnent une biomasse plus importante que ceux plus courts. Les bourgeons des fragments sont capables de croître à n’importe quelle profondeur mais l’émergence et le temps mis pour émerger dépend de la masse d’hydrate de carbone contenue dans le rhizome (longueur). L’élimination du bourgeon terminal augmente la croissance et le développement des bourgeons latéraux. Les essais ont montré que l’addition d’azote au milieu de culture augmente la croissance des bourgeons latéraux tout en réduisant l’effet de la dominance du bourgeon terminal sans l’éliminer complètement. Il a également été observé que toute activité fragmentant le système rhizomateux de la plante favorise sa dispersion.
Chronic erythropoietin treatment affects different molecular pathways of diabetic cardiomyopathy in mouse
Authors: Shushakova N. , Park J. K. , Menne J. , Fliser D.
Published: July 2009

Background Recent studies in mice experimental models with acute ischaemic injury revealed that erythropoietin (EPO) has numerous tissue‐protective effects in the heart, brain and kidneys. We therefore explored the tissue‐protective properties of chronic EPO treatment in an experimental model of the db/db mouse with diabetic heart injury.

Material and methods We randomly treated 11 db/db mice with placebo (saline), 0·4 μg of the continuous erythropoietin receptor activator (CERA) per week (n = 11) or 1·2 μg CERA per week (n = 11) for 14 weeks, and analysed cardiac tissue. The lower CERA dose was a non‐haematologically effective dose, whereas the second increased the haematocrit.

Results Compared with mice in the placebo group, CERA‐treated mice had a reduction in TGF‐β1and collagen I expression in cardiac tissue (P < 0·01 vs. higher dose CERA). In addition, an increased expression of the pro‐survival intracellular pathway p‐AKT was observed (P < 0·05 vs. higher dose CERA). The values for the lower C.E.R.A had an intermediate nonsignificant effect. Furthermore, we were able to show that atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) expression was increased in both CERA groups.

Conclusions Chronic treatment with CERA protects cardiac tissue in diabetic animals, i.e. it inhibits molecular pathways of cardiac fibrosis, and the effects are dose‐dependent.
Effect of stage of maturity of whole‐crop barley on intake and liveweight gain by dairy steers differing in initial live weight
Authors: Rustas B.‐O. , Nadeau E. , Johnsson S.
Published: July 2009

The effect of maturity at harvest of whole‐crop barley for ensiling on intake and liveweight gain of dairy steers differing in initial live weight (LW) was evaluated in an experiment over two years. Light (104–120 kg) and heavy (402–419 kg) dairy steers were fed diets containing predominantly whole‐crop barley silage harvested at the milk stage [dry matter (DM) content of 284 g kg−1 and neutral‐detergent fibre (NDF) concentration of 526 g kg−1 DM] or the dough stage of maturity (DM content of 328 g kg−1 and NDF concentration of 445 g kg−1 DM) and supplemented with up to 1 kg of concentrate. Dry matter intake (g kg−1 LW) was higher for whole‐crop barley harvested at the dough stage than at the milk stage of maturity and the difference was greater in heavy than in light steers (P < 0·001). Liveweight gain was higher and feed conversion ratio was lower for dough‐stage compared with milk‐stage silage (P < 0·05) but there was no interaction with size of steer. Whole‐crop barley harvested at the dough stage of maturity promoted higher liveweight gains in dairy steers compared with whole‐crop barley harvested at the milk stage due to a higher DM intake.
Effect of season, soil type and fertilizer on the biomass production and chemical composition of five tropical shrub legumes with forage potential
Authors: Tiemann T. T. , Franco L. H. , Peters M. , Frossard E. , Kreuzer M. , Lascano C. E. , Hess H. D.
Published: July 2009

The biomass production and the nutritive value of three tropical shrub legumes with condensed tannins (CT) (Calliandra calothyrsus,Flemingia macrophylla,Leucaena leucocephala) and two without CT (Cratylia argentea,Desmodium velutinum) as nitrogen‐rich feed supplements for ruminants were assessed in two field experiments in Colombia. In one experiment, conducted on two different typical tropical soils (mollisol vs. oxisol; pH, 7·8 vs. 5·0; P content, 43 vs. 2 mg kg DM−1), the effects of low and high levels of fertilizer application with P, K, Ca, Mg and S were tested in both the dry and rainy seasons. In a second experiment on the oxisol, the effect of a lower level of application of either P or S fertilizer was assessed. On the oxisol,C. calothyrsusandF. macrophyllahad the highest biomass production (93 and 100 g DM plant−1in 9 weeks respectively) but the dry season caused extremely low DM yields in all species tested.Leucaena leucocephaladid not grow on the oxisol but had the highest biomass production on the mollisol (454 g DM plant−1in 9 weeks). On the oxisol, the mineral concentrations of the forage were below the requirements of ruminant livestock. Fertilizer treatment had no clear effects on the nutrient composition of the forage. The non‐CT shrubC. argenteahad the highest concentrations of most minerals in its forage.
Transplanted XY germ cells produce spermatozoa in testes of XXY mice*
Authors: Lue Y. , Liu P. Y. , Erkkila K. , Ma K. , Schwarcz M. , Wang C. , Swerdloff R. S.
Published: July 2009

XXY mouse has been characterized as an experimental model for men with Klinefelter’s syndrome (XXY male phenotype). To test whether donor XY germ cells could proliferate and differentiate in the XXY testicular environment, donor testicular cells from adult (2–3 months old) and immature (10 days old) XY green fluorescence protein (GFP) transgenic mice were transplanted into the seminiferous tubules of adult (4–7 months old) and young (6 weeks old) XXY recipient mice respectively. Twelve weeks after transplantation, GFP positive spermatogonia were found in 21.74% (five out of 23) of adult XXY recipients who received adult donor cells. The GFP positive segments of seminiferous tubules were observed in 44.44% (four out of nine) young XXY recipients who received donor cells from 10 days old GFP mice. We found using immunohistochemistry and cell morphology that donor‐derived GFP positive germ cells were spermatogonia, spermatocytes, round spermatids and spermatozoa in some of the seminiferous tubules of young XXY recipient mice. The results demonstrated that the donor XY germ cells were able to qualitatively complete spermatogenesis in some of the seminiferous tubules of XXY mice.
Structuring of Amazonian bat assemblages: the roles of flooding patterns and floodwater nutrient load
Authors: Pereira Maria João Ramos , Marques João Tiago , Santana Joana , Santos Carlos David , Valsecchi João , De Queiroz Helder Lima , Beja Pedro , Palmeirim Jorge M.
Published: July 2009

1. River system dynamics results in ecological heterogeneities that play a central role in maintaining biodiversity in riverine regions. In central Amazonia, large expanses of forest are seasonally flooded by nutrient‐rich water (várzea forests) or by nutrient‐poor water (igapó forests). Inundation patterns and the nutrient load of floodwaters are perhaps the most important abiotic factors determining spatial ecological variations in lowland Amazonia, and so they are expected to strongly influence the structuring of animal communities.

2. We examined how inundation patterns and water‐nutrient load influence the structure of neotropical assemblages of bats, one of the most diverse vertebrate groups in tropical forests. Bat assemblages were sampled with mist nets in central Brazilian Amazonia, across a mosaic of várzea, igapó, and non‐flooding nutrient‐poor terra firme forests in the low‐ and high‐water seasons.

3. An ordination analysis clearly separated the assemblages of the three forest types, demonstrating the structural relevance of both flooding and floodwater‐nutrient load. Flooded forests had lower species richness because of the absence or rarity of species that make roosts out of leaves of understorey plants, and of those that feed on fruits of shrubs. Gleaning insectivores, also partly dependent on the understorey, were less abundant in flooded forests, but aerial insectivores more abundant, presumably because they benefited from a less cluttered foraging environment. These differences suggest that flooding affects bat assemblages mostly because it reduces the availability of niches associated with understorey vegetation, which tends to be sparser in flooded forests.

4. Nutrient‐rich várzea forests had a bat biomass twice that of nutrient‐poor igapó and unflooded forests. This difference was not only mostly due to a greater overall abundance of bats, but also attributable to a disproportionate higher abundance of large‐bodied bat species.

5. We concluded that both flooding and floodwater‐nutrient load are very important in the structuring of lowland Amazonian bat assemblages, with inundation mostly constraining the species composition of the assemblages, and water‐nutrient load mostly influencing the abundance of species. The distinctiveness of bat assemblages associated with flooding emphasizes the need to preserve inundated forests, which are under particular pressure in Amazonia.
The lived experiences of brokered brides who have attempted suicide in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Yao‐Yu , Huang Xuan‐Yi , Chen Chung‐Ying , Shao Wen‐Chuan
Published: July 2009

Aims and objectives.  The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of brokered brides who have attempted suicide in Taiwan.

Background.  There has been a significant rise in number of brokered brides since the 1970s in Western world and since the 1990s in several Asian countries. However, there is a great lack of research on brokered brides’ suicide around the world.

Design.  A descriptive phenomenological study was used to explore the lived experiences of brokered brides who have attempted suicide.

Methods.  Purposive sampling, one‐on‐one, in‐depth with semi‐structural interviews were conducted to collect data. Narratives were analysed by Colaizzi’s (1978) seven‐step method.

Results.  Data saturation was achieved after interviewing 12 brokered brides. The study group was comprised of females whose average age was 33. Three themes and the sub‐themes were: being a chrysalis (loss of support, loneliness, suffering abused experience, loss of self‐esteem), death of a chrysalis (loss of hope and seeking salvation) and birth of a chrysalis (regaining hope and sense of self‐worth).

Conclusions.  These brokered brides suffered from numerous pressures and difficulties in life. Their hopelessness led to suicidal behaviours as a way to get out of trouble. Hence, the need to provide brokered brides with substantial assistance and support in their lives is an issue that cannot be neglected. The results of this study could be used as a reference to provide professionals and the public with a deeper understanding of suicide in this vulnerable group, and provide more appropriate help and care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The suffering may be alleviated by giving brokered brides a reliable support system that they so obviously need. Several recommendations have been made, including amendments in terms of policy, society and the services offered by healthcare professionals.
A review of the role of emergency nurses in management of chemotherapy‐related complications
Authors: Considine Julie , Livingston Patricia , Bucknall Tracey , Botti Mari
Published: July 2009

Aims and objectives.  To examine the role of emergency nurses in caring for patients who receive chemotherapy in ambulatory oncology settings. Reasons for emergency department presentations are examined, specific sources of clinical risk for patients receiving chemotherapy who require emergency care are discussed and cost implications of emergency department presentations related to chemotherapy are analysed.

Background.  Given the increased administration of chemotherapy in ambulatory settings, emergency nurses play an important role in the management of patients undergoing adjuvant chemotherapy. Emergency departments are the major entry point for acute inpatient hospital care of complications arising from chemotherapy.

Design.  Systematic review.

Results.  Chemotherapy‐related emergency department presentations have considerable clinical and cost implications for patients and the healthcare system. Strategies to improve emergency department management of chemotherapy complications and reduction in preventable emergency department presentations has significant implications for improving cancer patients’ quality of life and reducing the cost of cancer care.

Conclusions.  Nurses are well placed to play a pivotal role in chemotherapy management and lead interventions such as a specialist oncology nursing roles that provide information and support to guide patients through their chemotherapy cycles. These interventions may prevent emergency department presentations for patients receiving chemotherapy in ambulatory settings.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Patients receiving chemotherapy require access to specialised care to manage distressing symptoms, as they are at significant clinical risk because of immunosuppression and may not exhibit the usual signs of critical illness. A team approach both within and across nursing specialities may improve care for patients receiving chemotherapy and increase effective use of healthcare resources.
Assessing the educational values of digital games
Authors: Hong J‐C. , Cheng C‐L. , Hwang M‐Y. , Lee C‐K. , Chang H‐Y.
Published: July 2009

Abstract  In recent years, digital games have assumed an important place in the lives of children and adolescents. Effective content design is crucial to the success of digital game‐based learning. Therefore, the tool for assessing the effectiveness of game design is accordingly very important for parents and teachers, so that they may encourage or discourage students to play. The purpose of this study is to develop an assessment tool to examine the educational values of digital games. In the first phase of this research, the research team developed the indices for assessing the educational values of digital games. An expert panel consisting of game scholars and professional game designers was established to construct the indices for evaluating digital games in three focus group discussions. Seventy‐four game evaluation indices were sorted into seven categories: mentality change, emotional fulfilment, knowledge enhancement, thinking skill development, interpersonal skill development, spatial ability development and bodily coordination. In the second phase of the research, the game designers were asked to assess certain games by using the 74 indices. Meanwhile, the game scholars were also asked to evaluate the same pool of games by the same indices. The assessments by both the scholars and designers were then compared and the similarities were found. This research provided a preliminary framework for future game designers, parents and teachers in assessing educational values of digital games.
The Streptococcus pneumoniae adhesin PsrP binds to Keratin 10 on lung cells
Authors: Shivshankar Pooja , Sanchez Carlos , Rose Lloyd F. , Orihuela Carlos J.
Published: July 2009

Pneumococcal serine‐rich repeat protein (PsrP) is a pathogenicity island‐encoded adhesin that mediates attachment to lung cells. It is a member of the serine‐rich repeat protein family and the largest bacterial protein known. PsrP production by S. pneumoniae was confirmed by immunoblotting and a truncated version of the protein was determined to be glycosylated. Using isogenic psrP mutants complemented with various PsrP constructs and competitive inhibition assays with recombinant proteins, we determined that PsrP requires an extended SRR2 domain for function and that adhesion is mediated through amino acids 273–341 of its basic region (BR) domain. Affinity chromatography, immunoprecipitation, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), fluorescent‐activated cell sorting (FACS) and immunofluorescent colocalization studies determined that PsrP binds to Keratin 10 (K10) on the surface of lung but not nasopharyngeal epithelial cells. Unglycosylated K10 bound to wild type but not psrP deficient pneumococci; suggesting that unlike other serine‐rich repeat proteins, PsrP‐mediated adhesion is independent of lectin activity. Finally, mice immunized with recombinant (r)PsrPBR had significantly less bacteria in their blood and improved survival versus controls following intranasal challenge. We conclude that the BR domain of PsrP binds to K10 in a lectin‐independent manner, that K10 is expressed on lung cells and that vaccination with rPsrPBR is protective against pneumococcal disease.
An endoscopic method for thermal and chemical stimulation of the human oesophagus
Authors: Olesen S. S. , Olesen A. E. , Gravesen F. , Poulsen J. L. , Funch‐jensen P. , Gregersen H. , Drewes A. M.
Published: July 2009

Abstract  Previous methods for visceral thermal stimulation have lacked control of the temperature rate and visual inspection of the organ. The aims of this study was to develop a method for linear control of heat stimulation in the human oesophagus combined with endoscopy, to assess the reproducibility of this method and to investigate sensitivity to thermal stimulation of the distal oesophagus before and after acid perfusion. A probe with a 2.8 mm endoscope inside was constructed permitting heat and chemical stimulation. Three different temperature ramps were applied in the distal oesophagus in 12 healthy subjects by recirculation of heated water in a bag. Endoscopy of the oesophageal mucosa was performed prior to experimental stimulation. The temperature, the time of stimulation and the area under the temperature curve (AUC) were measured at the pain detection threshold. Thermal stimulation was repeated after perfusion of the oesophagus with acid. The method was tested on two subsequent days to assess reproducibility. All subjects had a normal endoscopic examination. Day‐to‐day reproducibility was good for the three temperature ramps (intra‐class correlations >0.6). The subjects tolerated less heat stimulation, a decrease in AUC (P = 0.0003), a decrease in time to pain detection threshold (P = 0.005) and decreased temperature at pain detection threshold (P = 0.0001) after acid perfusion. The slow ramp was the most sensitive, showing a decrease in AUC of 29%. The present method was easily implemented and showed good reproducibility. It can potentially be used in basic experiments, drug and clinical studies as it provides a controllable thermal stimulus.
Demodex injai infestation and dorsal greasy skin and hair in eight wirehaired fox terrier dogs
Authors: Ordeix Laura , Bardagí Mar , Scarampella Fabia , Ferrer Lluís , Fondati Alessandra
Published: July 2009

Demodex injai mites were detected on trichoscopic examinations and/or deep skin scrapings in eight wirehaired fox terrier dogs with dorsal greasy skin and hair. Histological examination performed in five dogs revealed marked sebaceous gland hyperplasia with lympho‐plasmacytic periadnexal dermatitis in all of them. One mite section was observed in one patient. Seven dogs were parasitologically cured after 2 to 7 months of oral ivermectin treatment. Greasy skin and hair resolved in four dogs, was partially reduced in two dogs and persisted in the remaining dog. Skin biopsies were repeated after parasitological cure in two dogs and revealed the persistence of sebaceous gland hyperplasia with mild lympho‐plasmacytic periadnexal dermatitis and no parasites. Based on the findings in this case series, the terrier dog breed might be at increased risk for the development of D. injai mite infestation associated with dorsal greasy skin and hair, and microscopically with sebaceous gland hyperplasia. Persistence of sebaceous gland hyperplasia after parasitological cure in some patients suggested that this histological finding may not always be resulting from Demodex infestation. Moreover, low numbers of adult mites and variable clinical responses to acaricidal therapy suggested a contributory rather than a major role of D. injai in this skin condition. Dermatopathological diagnosis of sebaceous gland hyperplasia, particularly in case of dorsal trunk specimens from terrier dog breeds, warrants the search for D. injai mites on trichoscopic examinations and/or deep skin scrapings.
Keratinocytes treated with peptidoglycan from Staphylococcus aureus produce vascular endothelial growth factor, and its expression is amplified by the subsequent production of interleukin‐13
Authors: Ruíz‐González Verónica , Cancino‐Diaz Juan C. , Rodríguez‐Martínez Sandra , Cancino‐Diaz Mario E.
Published: July 2009

Background  Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐transgenic mice develop psoriasiform plaques that resemble human psoriasis, demonstrating that VEGF is an important factor in the development of psoriasis. In human keratinocytes, VEGF is regulated by human cathelicidin LL37, and the expression of this peptide, as well as interleukin‐13 receptor‐alpha1 (IL‐13Rα1) and VEGF, is increased in psoriatic skin. Peptidoglycan (PGN) stimulates innate immunity, inducing cytokines and antimicrobial peptides (cathelicidins), but PGN can also activate psoriatic T‐helper‐1 (Th1) lymphocytes. As neither the bacterial component that induces LL37 and VEGF expression nor the function of IL‐13 in keratinocytes has been clarified, the role of PGN in the induction of these molecules was evaluated in this work.

Methods  HaCaT keratinocytes were treated with PGN from Staphylococcus aureus, recombinant VEGF (rVEGF), and recombinant IL‐13 (rIL‐13). The mRNA expression of LL37, VEGF, and IL‐13 was evaluated by reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR), and VEGF and IL‐13 production was measured by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results  Keratinocytes treated with PGN show increased expression of LL37 at 24 h, VEGF at 36 h, and IL‐13 at 72 h post‐treatment. Anti‐Toll‐like receptor 2 (anti‐TLR2) antibody blocked the production of these molecules. LL37 and VEGF expression in keratinocytes treated with PGN was dose dependent. rVEGF induced IL‐13 production and rIL‐13 induced VEGF production at 36 h. The anti‐Flt‐1 antibody blocked IL‐13 expression.

Conclusions  These results suggest that PGN from S. aureus can induce LL37 and VEGF expression in keratinocytes, and that this VEGF production can be amplified by subsequent IL‐13 overproduction.
Differential outcomes in 3 types of acute antibody‐mediated rejection
Authors: Rafiq Muhammad A. , De Boccardo Graciela , Schröppel Bernd , Bromberg Jonathan S. , Sehgal Vinita , Dinavahi Rajani , Murphy Barbara , Akalin Enver
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Introduction:  The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence, predictors, and clinical outcomes of acute antibody‐mediated rejection (AAMR).

Methods:  Retrospective analysis of 833 adult patients who received kidney transplantation between 1/1/2001 and 8/15/2007.

Results:  The prevalence of AAMR and acute cellular rejection was 2% and 8.2%, respectively. Eight patients had type I, seven type II, and two type III AAMR. All patients had at least one strong donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies (DSA) with a median fluorescence intensity (MFI) value of over 6000 and the mean number of strong DSAs was 2.0 ± 0.7. Fifteen of 17 patients received pre‐transplant desensitization treatment. During a median 28 months of follow‐up (range: 12–38 months), two patients died (88% patient survival), and nine lost their allografts (35% graft survival). While all type I AAMR patients responded to treatment, all type III patients, and four of seven patients with type II AAMR lost their allografts earlier, and three type II AAMR patients later due to transplant glomerulopathy.

Conclusions:  AAMR is mainly seen in patients with pre‐transplant strong DSAs. There is a striking difference in clinical outcomes of AAMR that types II and III AAMR patients have poor prognosis compared to type I AAMR patients.
Methane emissions from six crop species exposed to three components of global climate change: temperature, ultraviolet‐B radiation and water stress
Authors: Qaderi Mirwais M. , Reid David M.
Published: July 2009

We examined the effects of temperature, ultraviolet‐B (UVB) radiation and watering regime on aerobic methane (CH4) emission from six crops–faba bean, sunflower, pea, canola, barley and wheat. Plants were grown in controlled‐environment growth chambers under two temperature regimes (24/20 and 30/26°C), three levels of UVB radiation [0 (zero), 5 (ambient) and 10 (enhanced) kJ m−2d−1] and two watering regimes (well watered and water stressed). A gas chromatograph with a flame ionization detector was used to measure CH4emission rates [ng g−1dry weight (DW) h−1] from detached fresh leaves of each species and attached leaves of pea plants. Plant growth [stem height, leaf area (LA) and aboveground dry matter (AG biomass)] and gas exchange [net CO2assimilation (AN), transpiration (E) and water use efficiency (WUE)] were also determined. We found that higher temperature, water stress and UVB radiation at the zero and enhanced levels significantly enhanced CH4emissions. Crop species varied in CH4emission, which was highest for pea and lowest for barley. Higher temperature and water stress reduced all growth parameters, whereas ambient and enhanced UVB decreased stem height but increased LA and AG biomass. Higher temperature decreased ANand WUE but increased E, whereas water stress decreased ANbut increased E and WUE. Zero and enhanced UVB reduced ANand E. Growth and gas exchange varied with species. Overall, CH4emission was negatively correlated with stem height and AG biomass. We conclude that CH4emissions may increase under climatic stress conditions and this extra source might contribute to the ‘greenhouse effect'.
High‐grade neuroendocrine carcinoma of the lung: Comparative clinicopathological study of large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma and small cell lung carcinoma
Authors: Sun Lihua , Sakurai Shinji , Sano Takaaki , Hironaka Mitsugu , Kawashima Osamu , Nakajima Takashi
Published: July 2009

Large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma (LCNEC) and small cell lung carcinoma (SCLC) are high‐grade neuroendocrine carcinomas. In order to clarify the similarities and differences between these cancers, 22 cases each of LCNEC and SCLC were collected and a comparative pathological study was carried out. First, their clinicopathological characteristics were confirmed, which were very similar to those previously reported. The 5 year survival rate of LCNEC and SCLC patients was 38.3% and 29.7%, respectively. The morphological characteristics of LCNEC and SCLC were then reviewed with regard to the morphology previously used to differentiate these cancers. As a result, many morphological indicators, such as tumor cell size, nuclear/cytoplasmic ratio, nuclear molding, rosette formation, prominent nucleoli and karyolysis were confirmed to be significant indicators for distinguishing LCNEC from SCLC. On comparative immunohistochemistry, LCNEC had significantly high staining scores for the expression of keratin 7 and 18, E‐ and P‐cadherins, β‐catenin, villin 1, retinoblastoma protein (pRB), c‐met and α‐enolase. These results might reflect the differentiation or deviation of LCNEC toward an epithelial nature irrespective of neuroendocrine tumor lineage. In conclusion, the present comparative study of LCNEC and SCLC defined the similarities and differences between these cancers, and showed the biologically and clinicopathologically overlapping spectrum of the tumor lineage.
Malignant pleural mesothelioma: Clinicopathology of 16 extrapleural pneumonectomy patients with special reference to early stage features
Authors: Hiroshima Kenzo , Yusa Toshikazu , Kameya Toru , Ito Ichiro , Kaneko Kou , Kadoyama Chikabumi , Kishi Hirohisa , Saitoh Yukio , Ozaki Daisuke , Itami Makiko , Iwata Takekazu , Iyoda Akira , Kawai Toshiaki , Yoshino Ichiro , Nakatani Yukio
Published: July 2009

The earliest pathological events in the development of malignant pleural mesothelioma (MPM) are not understood. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the early histopathological features of MPM. A total of 16 extrapleural MPM pneumonectomy patients were investigated. Early stage mesothelioma was arbitrarily defined as a tumor ≤5 mm in thickness regardless of the nodal status or other organ involvement. Eight of these patients (six with epithelioid, two with biphasic) had early stage mesothelioma by this definition. Macroscopically there was no visible tumor, but the parietal and visceral pleura were thickened and there was focal adhesion between them. Microscopically, the mesothelioma lesions were multifocal and discontinuous on the pleura. In extremely early cases of epithelioid mesothelioma, tumor cells were generally arrayed in a single layer, but papillary proliferation was observed elsewhere. In sarcomatoid mesothelioma, mesothelioma cells proliferated, forming multiple small polypoid nodules on the pleura. Epithelial membrane antigen was helpful to distinguish reactive from neoplastic mesothelium, but glucose transporter‐1 was not. Mesothelioma cells disseminate diffusely throughout the parietal and visceral pleura and mediastinal fat tissue before becoming visible. Stage Ia mesothelioma (neoplasm limited to the parietal pleura) would not be observed in daily practice.
Liver biopsy in primary biliary cirrhosis: Clinicopathological data and stage
Authors: Drebber Uta , Mueller Juliane J.M. , Klein Ellen , Kasper Hans U. , Schulze Falko , Schardt Katharina , Quasdorff Maria , Schulte Sigrid , Odenthal Margarete , Dienes Hans P.
Published: July 2009

The purpose of the present study was to characterize histopathological lesions in primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) and to assess the relationship between histopathological lesions and biochemistry. Liver biopsies of 252 patients with PBC were investigated. A laboratory database was established. Histopathological characterization was performed. Relationships between detailed histopathological features and biochemistry were calculated statistically. Combining the data, a PBC group, consisting of an anti‐mitochondrial antibody (AMA)‐positive and ‐negative subgroup, and an overlap group were defined, with a female preponderance of >90% and higher activity of aspartate aminotransferase (AST) in the overlap group. Histopathological changes were characteristic in >80%. Periductal concentric fibrosis, lobular granuloma formation and steatosis were frequently remarkable. Correlations were found between alanine aminotransferase activity and modified hepatitis activity index in the overlap group and the AMA‐positive group. A positive significant relationship was demonstrated between mean AST activity and portal fibrosis for the AMA‐positive group. A highly significant positive link was seen between mean concentration of bilirubin and stage of fibrosis. Biochemistry reflects only in part the degree of severity of histopathological lesions in PBC. Histopathology indicates comorbidity in a high percentage of patients.