bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The antiviral factor APOBEC3G improves CTL recognition of cultured HIV-infected T cells
Authors: Casartelli Nicoletta , Guivel-Benhassine Florence , Bouziat Romain , Brandler Samantha , Schwartz Olivier , Moris Arnaud
Published: December 2009

The cytidine deaminase APOBEC3G (A3G) enzyme exerts an intrinsic anti–human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) defense by introducing lethal G-to-A hypermutations in the viral genome. The HIV-1 viral infectivity factor (Vif) protein triggers degradation of A3G and counteracts this antiviral effect. The impact of A3G on the adaptive cellular immune response has not been characterized. We examined whether A3G-edited defective viruses, which are known to express truncated or misfolded viral proteins, activate HIV-1–specific (HS) CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). To this end, we compared the immunogenicity of cells infected with wild-type or Vif-deleted viruses in the presence or absence of the cytidine deaminase. The inhibitory effect of A3G on HIV replication was associated with a strong activation of cocultivated HS-CTLs. CTL activation was particularly marked with Vif-deleted HIV and with viruses harboring A3G. Enzymatically inactive A3G mutants failed to enhance CTL activation. We also engineered proviruses bearing premature stop codons in their genome as scars of A3G editing. These viruses were not infectious but potently activated HS-CTLs. Therefore, the pool of defective viruses generated by A3G represents an underestimated source of viral antigens. Our results reveal a novel function for A3G, acting not only as an intrinsic antiviral factor but also as an inducer of the adaptive immune system.
CD207+ CD103+ dermal dendritic cells cross-present keratinocyte-derived antigens irrespective of the presence of Langerhans cells
Authors: Henri Sandrine , Poulin Lionel Franz , Tamoutounour Samira , Ardouin Laurence , Guilliams Martin , de Bovis Béatrice , Devilard Elisabeth , Viret Christophe , Azukizawa Hiroaki , Kissenpfennig Adrien , Malissen Bernard
Published: December 2009

Recent studies have challenged the view that Langerhans cells (LCs) constitute the exclusive antigen-presenting cells of the skin and suggest that the dermal dendritic cell (DDC) network is exceedingly complex. Using knockin mice to track and ablate DCs expressing langerin (CD207), we discovered that the dermis contains five distinct DC subsets and identified their migratory counterparts in draining lymph nodes. Based on this refined classification, we demonstrated that the quantitatively minor CD207+ CD103+ DDC subset is endowed with the unique capability of cross-presenting antigens expressed by keratinocytes irrespective of the presence of LCs. We further showed that Y-Ae, an antibody that is widely used to monitor the formation of complexes involving I-Ab molecules and a peptide derived from the I-E α chain, recognizes mature skin DCs that express I-Ab molecules in the absence of I-E α. Knowledge of this extra reactivity is important because it could be, and already has been, mistakenly interpreted to support the view that antigen transfer can occur between LCs and DDCs. Collectively, these data revisit the transfer of antigen that occurs between keratinocytes and the five distinguishable skin DC subsets and stress the high degree of functional specialization that exists among them.
Improving women's representation in senior positions in universities
Authors: Doherty Liz , Manfredi Simonetta
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The overall purpose of the paper is to understand the barriers to women's progression to senior positions in universities. It aims to explore similarities and differences between the career experiences and leadership styles of men and women in middle‐ and senior‐level positions at one university. The ultimate aim is to identify interventions to help create a more equal gender balance at senior levels.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed methods approach was adopted. In‐depth interviews were conducted with a quota sample of 53 men and women in order to explore their lived career experiences. In addition, 50 questionnaires were received from the same sample in order to compare factual data about the participants' life histories and biographical circumstances.

Findings

The findings show that women's human capital and career progression to date are at least equal to those of men and that this has been achieved without women sacrificing a holistic family life. They also show that there are still some important differences between men and women in the way they plan and manage their careers and the leadership style that they adopt.

Practical implications

A five‐level framework is proposed which sets down the types of intervention that are required to create a more equal gender balance in senior positions. It is argued that this should be used to shape the gender equality schemes developed in universities under the Gender Equality Duty.

Originality/value

The paper provides new evidence about the residual differences between men's and women's career experiences, even in an employment context, which is particularly supportive of women. It also makes a significant contribution to the debate about the gendered nature of leadership.
The information professional of the future: polymath or dinosaur?
Authors: Broady‐Preston Judith
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the contemporary theories of professionalism, together with an assessment of the complex factors resulting in a fundamental re‐examination of the nature and role of the information profession (IP) in contemporary society.

Design/methodology/approach

A combination of strong structuration and social identity theories is suggested as a suitable methodological framework for determining the meaning of “professionalism” within the context of the contemporary IP.

Findings

The future of the IP is by no means assured, and further empirical studies need to be undertaken to map the extent of change and the degree to which this is a matter of concern.

Research limitations/implications

This paper outlines a suitable methodological approach for future studies, together with a review of key factors impinging on the contemporary IP.

Originality/value

This methodological framework has been utilised in related studies of cognate professions, but not thus far applied to IP.
Speed sensorless DTC control of the induction motor using FPGA implementation
Authors: Kowalski Czeslaw T. , Lis Jacek D.
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present a fixed‐point implementation of a complete direct torque control (DTC) algorithm connected with a rotor speed estimation algorithm for the induction motor drive, using field‐programmable gate array (FPGA).

Design/methodology/approach

The parallel processing approach is described, which requires a decomposition of the control and estimation algorithms for the converter‐fed induction motor to several tasks, realised in parallel. The advanced data processing techniques are described, like PIPELINE technique for data streams design, coordinate rotation digital computer algorithm for transformation of stator flux vector components from Cartesian to polar coordinates. Moreover, the method for the qualitative analysis of the full‐order state observer's sensitivity to the variations of the induction motor equivalent circuit parameters is presented.

Findings

It is shown that the developed FPGA‐based DTC structure enables designing an efficient application for the induction motor control. Owing to the high‐processing frequency, the digital FPGA‐based DTC application is similar in its features to the analogue realisation based on the comparators. Yet all the advantages of the digital structure, i.e. high flexibility, parameterization capability, etc. remain unchanged. Furthermore, FPGA is hardware realisation of a digital data processing algorithm; hence the reliability of the control system is improved.

Research limitations/implications

The investigations are performed in the developing prototype setup, based on PXI‐1042 Industrial PC equipped with Xilinx Virtex‐II FPGA matrix, programmed with LabVIEW.

Practical implications

The experimental tests of the FPGA‐based implementation of the whole control structure of the sensorless DTC drive system are demonstrated. It is also shown, that the full‐order state observer with the speed adaptation loop is significantly sensitive to motor parameter variations in the low‐speed region, which must be taken into account while designing the adaptation algorithm for speed estimation in real application.

Originality/value

The paper's value lies in the overall, FPGA‐based design of the speed sensorless DTC structure for the induction motor including motor speed, torque and stator flux control loops, stator flux and rotor speed estimation.
Accounting for needs? Formula funding in the UK schools sector
Authors: Agyemang Gloria
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse whether the development of a needs‐based funding formula for resource allocation incorporates the needs of funders or the needs of the service providers.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper analyses interview data and documentary evidence gathered from a UK local education authority about the creation of a “needs‐based” formula for sharing resources to schools. It employs and extends a framework developed by Levačić and Ross to evaluate needs‐based formula funding.

Findings

Although formula funding is purported to be a more objective method of resource allocation, the paper finds that as with other resource allocation methods the power relations between the funder and the service provider impacts on the extent to which service provider needs are incorporated into the funding formula.

Research limitations/implications

This paper considers only the funding of schools. Further work is needed to investigate formula funding for other public services.

Practical implications

Debates between funders and service providers should be encouraged by policy makers to ensure that allocations based on the funding formula are acceptable to service providers.

Originality/value

The paper provides a useful analysis of a needs‐based funding formula for resource allocation in schools and whether this incorporates the needs of funders or the needs of the service providers.
“Measuring” sustainable living agendas
Authors: Hurley Louise , Ashley Richard , Molyneux‐Hodgson Susan , Moug Peter , Schiessel Nicki
Published: December 2009

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to introduce an approach for dynamically assessing the transition from partition to integration within a multi‐disciplinary research/urban regeneration project and its effect on the relative sustainability of interventions proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

Stated sustainability aims of the research project are deconstructed in discussion with the multi‐disciplinary teams and stakeholders involved to give transparency to values held. Indicators are defined separately by the teams and then collectively. A framework for assessment is developed from a combination of ideas in research and practice and from a social science perspective. The thesis of the project that there are “significant social, economic and environmental gains to be made by integrated and innovative interventions in urban river corridors” is iteratively tested against the framework in open discussions enabling the framework's continual refinement.

Findings

The dynamics of sustainability assessment as a process rather than a product are captured. A means of mapping the transition from multi‐disciplinary to inter‐ (or even trans‐) disciplinary research is proposed, which enables assessment of the effect of integrative working on the sustainability of interventions in complex systems of urban living.

Research limitations/implications

Frameworks of assessment are self‐limiting because they lack the ability to truly describe context, yet they are needed by assessors of sustainability in order to provide structure to discussions.

Practical implications

Proposed visual representation of this technique using up‐to‐date models will support a deliberative, discussion‐led dialogue between stakeholders.

Originality/value

The paper presents a new approach to sustainability assessment capturing the dynamics of shared learning and progress towards greater sustainability, whilst retaining the flexibility to include issues of transitory importance.
Fibronectin‐binding proteins of Clostridium perfringens recognize the III1‐C fragment of fibronectin
Authors: Yamasaki Tsutomu , Hitsumoto Yasuo , Katayama Seiichi , Nogami Yusaku
Published: December 2009

The Clostridium perfringens strain 13 genome contains two genes (fbpA, fbpB) that encode putative Fbp. Both rFbpA and rFbpB were purified and their reactivity with human serum Fn was analyzed. To determine the region of the Fn molecule recognized by rFbp, a plate binding assay using N‐terminal 70‐kDa peptide, III1‐C peptide, and 110‐kDa peptide containing III2–10 of Fn was performed. Both rFbp bound to the III1‐C peptide of Fn but not to the other peptides. However, the III1‐C fragment of Fn is known to be cryptic in serum Fn. Then, rFbp‐BP from Fn were purified by rFbp‐affinity chromatography. The yield of purified proteins was approximately 1% of the applied Fn on a protein basis. Western blotting analysis of the rFbp‐BP, using four different anti‐Fn monoclonal antibodies, revealed that the rFbp‐BP carried partial Fn antigenicity. Bindings of rFbp to rFbp‐BP were inhibited by the presence of the III1‐C peptide, suggesting that rFbp‐BP express the III1‐C fragment. The binding of Fn to III1‐C was inhibited by the presence of either rFbpA or rFbpB. This result that suggests C. perfringens Fbps may inhibit the formation of Fn‐matrix in vivo.
The effects of a vegetable‐derived probiotic lactic acid bacterium on the immune response
Authors: Chon Heeson , Choi Byungryul
Published: December 2009

The objective of this study was to investigate the probiotic properties of the fermented vegetable derived lactic acid bacterium, L. plantarum. L. plantarum 10hk2 showed antibacterial activity against pathogenic bacteria and immunomodulating effects on murine macrophage cell lines. RAW 264.7 cells stimulated with viable cells of this probiotic strain increased the amounts of pro‐inflammatory mediators such as IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α, as well as the anti‐inflammatory mediator, IL‐10. ICR mice fed with viable cells of L. plantarum 10hk2 had reduced numbers of enteric Salmonella and Shigella species in comparison to controls from 2 weeks after supplementation, and this effect was observed for up to 4 weeks. The findings of this study suggest that this specific lactic acid bacterial strain, which is derived from vegetable fermentation, holds great promise for use in probiotics and as a food additive since it can reduce the number of some pathogenic bacteria through production of lactic acids.
Proton pump inhibitors as a risk factor for paediatric Clostridium difficile infection
Authors: TURCO R. , MARTINELLI M. , MIELE E. , ROSCETTO E. , DEL PEZZO M. , GRECO L. , STAIANO A.
Published: December 2009

Aliment Pharmacol Ther 31, 754–759

Background  Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and H2 receptor antagonists (H2RAs) may play an important role on the onset of Clostridium difficile‐associated disease (CDAD) in adults. The impact of Clostridium difficile on children treated with gastric acid‐suppressing agents remains unknown.

Aim  To investigate the relationship between CDAD and exposure to acid suppressive therapy in hospitalized paediatric patients.

Methods  We reviewed the medical records of children, with a diagnosis of protracted diarrhoea and abdominal pain, whose stool was analysed for C. difficile toxins. We identified 68 patients with CDAD. For each patient, we randomly selected one control subjects with stool analysis negative for C. difficile. Comorbid illnesses, previous hospitalizations, antibiotics, corticosteroids, immunosuppressants and gastric acid suppressing exposures were recorded.

Results  The use of PPI was significantly higher in C. difficile positive group compared with C. difficile negative group [odds ratio (OR): = 4.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.4–14.4]. We also found a trend for the use of H2RAs in patients infected by C. difficile compared with C. difficile negative comparison group (OR: = 3.8; 95% CI = 0.7–18.9).

Conclusions  Children exposed to PPIs therapy seem to be at higher risk for the development of Clostridium difficile‐associated disease.
Screening injured children for physical abuse or neglect in emergency departments: a systematic review
Authors: Woodman J. , Lecky F. , Hodes D. , Pitt M. , Taylor B. , Gilbert R.
Published: December 2009

Background  Screening markers are used in emergency departments (EDs) to identify children who should be assessed for possible physical abuse and neglect. We conducted three systematic reviews evaluating age, repeat attendance and injury type as markers for physical abuse or neglect in injured children attending EDs.

Methods  We included studies comparing markers in physically abused or neglected children and non‐abused injured children attending ED or hospital. We calculated likelihood ratios (LRs) for age group, repeat attendance and injury type (head injury, bruises, fractures, burns or other). Given the low prevalence of abuse or neglect, we considered that an LR of 10 or more would be clinically useful.

Results  All studies were poor quality. Infancy increased the risk of physical abuse or neglect in severely injured or admitted children (LRs 7.7–13.0, 2 studies) but was not strongly associated in children attending the ED (LR 1.5, 95% CI: 0.9, 2.8; one study). Repeat attendance did not substantially increase the risk of abuse or neglect and may be confounded by chronic disease and socio‐economic status (LRs 0.8–3.9, 3 studies). One study showed no evidence that the type of injury substantially increased the risk of physical abuse or neglect in severely injured children.

Conclusions  There was no evidence that any of the markers (infancy, type of injury, repeated attendance) were sufficiently accurate (i.e. LR ≥ 10) to screen injured children in the ED to identify those requiring paediatric assessment for possible physical abuse or neglect. Clinicians should be aware that among injured children at ED a high proportion of abused children will present without these characteristics and a high proportion of non‐abused children will present with them. Information about age, injury type and repeat attendances should be interpreted in this context.
Adverse birth outcomes among pregnancies of teen mothers: age‐specific analysis of national data in Taiwan
Authors: Chen C.‐W. , Tsai C.‐Y. , Sung F.‐C. , Lee Y.‐Y. , Lu T.‐H. , Li C.‐Y. , Ko M.‐C.
Published: December 2009

Background  This study was conducted to evaluate the risks of adverse birth outcomes including low birthweight, preterm and small‐for‐gestational age among teen mothers.

Methods  Data were collected from the Taiwan Birth Registry between 1985 and 1997. Among a total of 1 185 597 live births born to mothers aged 24 years or less, 151 259 (12.8%) were born to teen mothers aged 19 years or less. Crude odds ratios (ORs), adjusted ORs (AORs), their 95% confidence intervals and test for linear trend of maternal age‐specific AOR were estimated using logistic regression analysis.

Results  After controlling for certain birth characteristics and socio‐economic factors, the age‐specific analysis showed significantly gradient variations in increased risks of adverse birth outcomes among births of teen mothers, where the elevated risk was lessened in older teen mothers. Teen mothers aged 16 years or less were observed to experience particularly high AORs for all adverse birth outcomes of interest.

Conclusions  Not all teen mothers experienced the same magnitude of increased risk of adverse birth outcomes in Taiwan. Considering all teen mothers as the same group may have overlooked the particularly high risks of adverse birth outcomes among very young teen mothers (16 years or less), who are especially vulnerable to such elevated risks.
Birth outcomes associated with prenatal participation in a government support programme for mothers with low incomes
Authors: Canning P. M. , Frizzell L. M. , Courage M. L.
Published: December 2009

Background  Women with low incomes are at higher risk to have low‐birthweight (LBW) babies and less likely to participate in prenatal support programmes than women with higher incomes. This study examined birth outcomes among participants in the Newfoundland and Labrador Mother‐Baby Nutrition Supplement (MBNS), a prenatal programme for women with low incomes that provides a monthly financial supplement and printed information on infant health and development, along with a referral to public health nursing services.

Methods  Application data (e.g. mother's age, education) for those who applied between August 2002 and December 2004 were obtained from the Provincial Government. Birth outcomes (e.g. birthweight, weeks of gestation) were available for 1599 women. Of these, 862 were parity zero and subsequently delivered full‐term infants. Comparisons were made on demographics, timeliness of enrolment and rates of full‐term LBW.

Results  Participants were more often single, younger and less educated than the average woman who gave birth in the Province or Canada in 2004. Women enrolled early were less likely to have a full‐term LBW baby than those enrolled late (χ2(1)= 4.03, P= 0.045). Mothers enrolled late had a higher rate of full‐term LBW than was the case in the Province [risk ratio (RR) = 2.76, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.61−4.74] and Canada (RR = 2.53, 95% CI = 1.55−4.21) whereas those enrolled earlier, despite increased risk due to low income, age and education, single status and zero parity, had rates of full‐term LBW on par with the Province (RR = 1.29, 95% CI = 0.71−2.32) and Canada (RR = 1.19, 95% CI = 0.68−2.08).

Conclusion  The MBNS is an effective intervention for improving birth outcomes in women considered at risk. The challenge is to enrol pregnant women as early as possible. Future research will examine what programme component or combination of components (e.g. financial, information, referral) affects birth outcomes.
Physically active families – de‐bunking the myth? A qualitative study of family participation in physical activity
Authors: Thompson J. L. , Jago R. , Brockman R. , Cartwright K. , Page A. S. , Fox K. R.
Published: December 2009

Background  The benefits of physical activity for reducing obesity and related chronic diseases are well known. The need for more family‐based interventions to increase physical activity is frequently cited in the literature; however, little is known about if and how families are physically active together, and what factors might influence family‐based participation in regular physical activity. This study examined the types of activities (physical and sedentary) engaged in as a family and explored parents' perceptions of the importance, frequency, nature and barriers to family physical activity.

Methods  Semi‐structured telephone interviews were conducted with 30 parents (26 female, four male) of 10‐ to 11‐year‐old schoolchildren who attended either low, middle or high socio‐economic status schools in Bristol, UK. Interviews were transcribed verbatim, anonymized and analysed using conventional content analysis.

Results  The majority of parents rated family engagement in physical activity as important, and identified benefits such as increased parent–child communication, spending time together, enjoyment, enhanced mental health, weight control and physical fitness. Despite these benefits most parents reported their families did little or no physical activity together as a family unit during the week, and any activities performed together were usually sedentary in nature. They reported increased family physical activity on the weekends but rarely including the full family unit simultaneously. Parents in two‐parent households commonly paired off with one or more children because of complexities of schedules. Commonly reported barriers were busy lifestyles, diverse ages and interests of children and adults, bad weather, and lack of access to facilities, transportation and money to support activities.

Conclusions  Family‐based interventions might be more effective if they are designed to accommodate the complex demands and needs of two‐parent and single‐parent families and provide affordable, diverse activities appealing to a wide range of interests.
Parenting stress in US families: implications for paediatric healthcare utilization
Authors: Raphael J. L. , Zhang Y. , Liu H. , Giardino A. P.
Published: December 2009

Objective  According to family stress models, parental responses to stress disrupt interactions between parent and child and may lead to parental inability to seek timely medical care for their child. The objective of this study was to quantitatively assess the relationship between high parenting stress and child healthcare utilization.

Methods  We used the 2003–2004 National Survey of Children's Health to determine the prevalence of parenting stress in US families and associated socio‐demographic variables. We used weighted logistic regression to investigate associations between parenting stress and healthcare utilization, controlling for other parental psychosocial and socio‐demographic variables. The primary independent variables were parenting stress, parental mental health, parental coping and social support. The main dependent variables were emergency care, sick visits to primary care and preventive care in the past 12 months.

Results  Nationally, 13% of children lived in households with at least one parent experiencing high parenting stress. Socio‐demographic variables associated with the highest odds of parenting stress included Black race, special needs status and non‐English primary language. Parents with high parenting stress had a higher odds (adjusted odds ratio 1.24, 95% confidence interval 1.10–1.41) of seeking emergency care for their children compared with parents with low parenting stress, controlling for other parental psychosocial factors and socio‐demographic variables.

Conclusions  Having a parent who is experiencing high parenting stress is associated with greater utilization of paediatric emergency care. Interventions targeted at parenting stress may provide families with needed support and reduce unnecessary emergency care utilization.
Visceral adiposity is closely correlated with neck circumference and represents a significant indicator of insulin resistance in WHO grade III obesity
Authors: Yang L. , Samarasinghe Y. P. , Kane P. , Amiel S. A. , Aylwin S. J. B.
Published: December 2009

Objective  Although associations between visceral adiposity (intra‐abdominal fat mass) and insulin resistance are well established, previous data include few subjects with WHO grade III obesity [body mass index (BMI) > 40 kg/m2]. We have investigated the relationship between visceral adiposity and insulin resistance using computed tomography (CT)‐quantified fat mass and the homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR) in patients with severe obesity.

Patients and methods  Eighteen nondiabetic subjects with BMI > 40 kg/m2 were recruited. BMI, and waist, hip and neck circumferences were measured. Fasting plasma insulin and glucose were measured to calculate HOMA‐IR. A single slice CT scan was taken at L4 and visceral and abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue (VAT and ASAT, respectively) quantified using ‘SliceOmatic’ image analysis software.

Results  A close correlation was demonstrated between VAT and HOMA‐IR (r2 = 0·46, P = 0·002), whereas ASAT showed no relationship. Neck circumference correlated with both VAT (r2 = 0·67, P < 0·0001) and HOMA‐IR (r2 = 0·35, P = 0·01). Waist circumference only correlated significantly with VAT (r2 = 0·25, P = 0·03).

Conclusions  Visceral adiposity remains a strongly significant indicator of insulin resistance in WHO grade III obesity. Neck circumference surpasses other anthropometric measurements as a powerful marker of both VAT and insulin resistance.
Change of symptoms and perceived health in acromegalic patients on pegvisomant therapy: a retrospective cohort study within the German Pegvisomant Observational Study (GPOS)
Authors: Sievers Caroline , Brübach Katja , Saller Bernhard , Schneider Harald J. , Buchfelder Michael , Droste Michael , Mann Klaus , Strasburger Christian J. , Stalla Günter K. ,   On behalf of the German Pegvisomant Investigators
Published: December 2009

Objective  This study aimed at investigating how symptoms and perceived health changes in acromegalic patients during pegvisomant treatment in respect to IGF‐1 levels and disease characteristics.

Design/patients  Retrospective, multicentre cohort study in 131 acromegalic patients within the German Pegvisomant Observational Study (GPOS).

Measurements  Outcome measure was the change of perceived health evaluated by the Patient‐Assessed Acromegaly Symptom Questionnaire (PASQ) between baseline and after 1 year of pegvisomant therapy. Predictors were change in IGF‐1 levels, maximal pegvisomant dosage, adverse events and comorbidities.

Results  Perspiration, soft tissue swelling and perceived health improved after 1 year of pegvisomant therapy while other symptoms such as headache, fatigue and joint pain remained largely unchanged over time. The highest mean IGF‐1/upper limit of normal (ULN) values before pegvisomant therapy were found in those patients with a reported amelioration in perspiration and soft tissue swelling after 1 year of pegvisomant treatment. The highest mean decrease of IGF‐1/ULN was found in those patients with reported amelioration of numbness and tingling of limbs. Other factors such as decrease in fasting glucose may play a role as independent predictor for some symptoms such as the improvement of headache, perspiration and perceived health, while other factors such as maximal pegvisomant dosage, occurrence of adverse events, tumour growth, or liver enzyme elevation did not play a predictive role.

Conclusions  Patients’ symptoms and perceived health are in part an independent construct, not merely reflecting IGF‐1 status or biochemical control. Subjective measures should therefore be regularly documented in acromegalic patients as a patient‐oriented indicator for treatment success.
Usefulness of iodine/creatinine ratio from spot‐urine samples to evaluate the effectiveness of low‐iodine diet preparation for radioiodine therapy
Authors: Kim Hee Kyung , Lee Soo Youn , Lee Ji In , Jang Hye Won , Kim Soo Kyoung , Chung Hye Soo , Tan Alice Hyun Kyung , Hur Kyu Yeon , Kim Jae Hyeon , Chung Jae Hoon , Kim Sun Wook
Published: December 2009

Objective  The success of a low‐iodine diet (LID) is best determined by measurement of 24‐h urine iodine (U‐I) excretion. The aim of this study was to determine reliable estimates for 24‐h U‐I based on spot‐urine samples and to provide cut‐offs to determine the effectiveness of LID preparation.

Design  We prospectively measured iodine levels in 193 patients based on 24‐h‐ and spot‐urine samples before radioactive iodine therapy. The iodine was expressed as the 24‐h U‐I excretion (μg/day) and as two different indices from spot urine, simple iodine concentration (simple I) and the iodine/creatinine (I/Cr) ratio. Poor LID preparation was defined as I excretion of >150 μg/day according to the 24‐h U‐I measurement.

Results  The measured 24‐h U‐I was significantly higher than the two indices from spot urine (P < 0·001). However, there were statistically significant correlations between the 24‐h U‐I values and the two spot‐urine‐based indices; the correlation coefficient was 0·539 for simple I and 0·773 for I/Cr ratio (P < 0·001). The cut‐off of I/Cr ratio for poor LID preparation was >66·2 μg/g Cr (sensitivity 96·4%, specificity 83·6%, positive predictive value 50·0% and negative predictive value 99·3%).

Conclusions  We demonstrated that the I/Cr ratio from spot urine could serve as a useful and reliable alternative to 24‐h urine collection as it has acceptable diagnostic values for detecting poor LID preparation.
Association of vitamin D status with serum androgen levels in men
Authors: Wehr E. , Pilz S. , Boehm B. O. , März W. , Obermayer‐Pietsch B.
Published: December 2009

Objective  Studies in rodents indicate a role of vitamin D in male reproduction, but the relationship between vitamin D and androgen levels in men is largely unexplored. We aimed to investigate the association of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] levels with testosterone, free androgen index (FAI) and SHBG. Moreover, we examined whether androgen levels show a similar seasonal variation to 25(OH)D.

Design  In this cross‐sectional study, 25(OH)D, testosterone and SHBG levels were assessed by immunoassay in 2299 men who were routinely referred for coronary angiography (1997–2000).

Measurements  Main outcome measures were associations of 25(OH)D levels with testosterone, SHBG and FAI. FAI was calculated as testosterone (nmol/l)/SHBG (nmol/l) × 100.

Results  Men with sufficient 25(OH)D levels (≥30 μg/l) had significantly higher levels of testosterone and FAI and significantly lower levels of SHBG when compared to 25(OH)D insufficient (20–29·9 μg/l) and 25(OH)D‐deficient (<20 μg/l) men (P < 0·05 for all). In linear regression analyses adjusted for possible confounders, we found significant associations of 25(OH)D levels with testosterone, FAI and SHBG levels (P < 0·05 for all). 25(OH)D, testosterone and FAI levels followed a similar seasonal pattern with a nadir in March (12·2 μg/l, 15·9 nmol/l and 40·8, respectively) and peak levels in August (23·4 μg/l, 18·7 nmol/l and 49·7, respectively) (P < 0·05 for all).

Conclusion  Androgen levels and 25(OH)D levels are associated in men and reveal a concordant seasonal variation. Randomized controlled trials are warranted to evaluate the effect of vitamin D supplementation on androgen levels.
How do small browsers respond to resource changes? Dietary response of the Cape grysbok to clearing alien Acacias
Authors: Kerley Graham I. H. , Landman Marietjie , De Beer Stephanie
Published: December 2009

1. The responses of small ruminants to changing food availability may vary from a broadening of the diet with declining availability, as predicted by optimality theory, to the maintenance of a restricted, selected diet, as predicted by the body‐size constraint hypothesis.

2. We test these conflicting predictions by assessing the dietary responses of the Cape grysbok Raphicerus melanotis, a near‐endemic to the Cape Floristic region, South Africa, to changes in the availability of a key forage species (i.e. Australian Acacia sp.). We predicted that the removal of alien Acacias would cause a broadening of the diet, and the consumption of previously avoided species, despite the selectivity imposed by their small body size. We used faecal analyses to describe grysbok diet and assessed diet quality through faecal quality analyses.

3. Results show that grysbok are highly selective browsers, able to change their diet and dietary preferences in response to changes in food availability. Animals included additional species in the diet in the absence of alien Acacias, altered their principal dietary items, broadened foraging strategies to include grass and some previously avoided species became preferred in the absence of Acacias. These dietary changes were effective in maintaining dietary protein intake, and caused a reduction in fibre intake in the absence of Acacias.

4. The data do not support the body size constraint hypothesis which is thought to impose a limit on the ability of small ruminants to select additional dietary species.

5. These data represent the first quantification of extensive grazing (up to 51% of the diet) by a species considered a browser. These findings support the prediction of optimality theory, whereby animals faced with a loss of important food items broaden their diet to include previously avoided species.
Food availability and population processes: severity of nutritional stress during reproduction predicts survival of long‐lived seabirds
Authors: Kitaysky Alexander S. , Piatt John F. , Hatch Scott A. , Kitaiskaia Evgenia V. , Benowitz‐Fredericks Z. Morgan , Shultz Michael T. , Wingfield John C.
Published: December 2009

1. Life‐history theory predicts a trade‐off between costs of current reproduction and future survival of individuals. Studies of short‐lived animals in general support this prediction. However, the effect of nutritional stress during reproduction on survival of long‐lived animals is poorly understood.

2. We examined the link between nutritional stress, fecundity and return to a breeding colony (hereafter ‘survival’) of black‐legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla) at two colonies with contrasting patterns in adult survival, fecundity, and numerical trends.

3. We tested the observational (at Duck and Gull Is., Cook Inlet, Northern Gulf of Alaska) and experimental (at Middleton I., Gulf of Alaska) relationships between variations in the secretion of the stress hormone corticosterone (CORT) and food abundance. Then, we examined the relationships between nutritional stress (as reflected in CORT), reproduction, and survival of individuals.

4. On average, CORT was higher in kittiwakes breeding on Duck I. (declining, low fecundity, high survival) compared to those breeding on Gull I. (increasing, high fecundity, low survival).

5. At both colonies, CORT was directly negatively correlated with food abundance quantified at sea. Experimental feeding of individuals ad libitum resulted in a reduction of CORT in birds breeding on Middleton I. These results suggest that CORT is a reliable measure of food availability and defines nutritional stress (stress) in kittiwakes.

6. On Gull I., where survival is low (86%), production of young declined as stress increased. On Duck I., where survival is high (93%), parents always failed in raising young, though they experienced a wide range of stress levels.

7. Survival of individuals is linked to their CORT levels during reproduction. High levels of CORT predicted disappearance of individuals from both colonies.

8. The results support the hypothesis that nutritional stress during reproduction affects both survival and reproduction in long‐lived animals. However, even within a species the ways in which survival and reproduction trade‐off against each other may vary among populations. Results suggest that reproductive consequences of nutritional stress might differ between declining and increasing populations, which should be tested. We conclude that severity of nutritional stress during reproduction is one of the major factors defining population processes in kittiwakes.
Thrombin generation and fibrinolysis in anti‐factor IX treated blood and plasma spiked with factor VIII inhibitor bypassing activity or recombinant factor VIIa
Authors: BOLLIGER D. , SZLAM F. , MOLINARO R. J. , ESCOBAR M. A. , LEVY J. H. , TANAKA K. A.
Published: December 2009

Summary.  Activated prothrombin complex concentrates (aPCC) and recombinant activated factor VIIa (rFVIIa) are two important therapies in haemophilia patients with inhibitors and improve clot stability. We hypothesized that potential differences in procoagulant and fibrinolytic actions of aPCC and rFVIIa may lie in the clot stability against fibrinolytic activation. We used thrombin generation, fluorescence detection and thromboelastometry in anti‐factor IXa (FIXa) aptamer‐treated whole blood (WB) and plasma to evaluate: (i) generation of thrombin and activated factor X (FXa) and (ii) viscoelastic properties of blood clots in the presence of tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) after addition of aPCC (0.4 U mL−1) or rFVIIa (60 nm). Peak thrombin generation increased from 85 ± 19 nm in aptamer‐treated plasma to 276 ± 83 nm and 119 ± 22 nm after addition of aPCC and rFVIIa respectively (P < 0.001). FXa activity increased within 20 min by 87 ± 6% and by 660 ± 97% after addition of aPCC and rFVIIa respectively (P < 0.001). TPA‐induced lysis time increased from 458 ± 378 s in aptamer‐treated WB to 1597 ± 366 s (P = 0.001) and 1132 ± 214 s (P = 0.075), after addition of aPCC and rFVIIa respectively. In this haemophilia model using the anti‐FIXa aptamer, the larger amount of thrombin was generated with aPCC compared with rFVIIa, while FXa generation was more rapidly increased in the presence of rFVIIa. Furthermore, clot formation in anti‐FIXa aptamer‐treated WB was less susceptible to tPA‐induced fibrinolysis after adding aPCC compared with rFVIIa.
Long‐term evaluation of chromosomal breakages after radioisotope synovectomy for treatment of target joints in patients with haemophilia
Authors: KAVAKLI K. , COGULU O. , AYDOGDU S. , OZKILIÇ H. , DURMAZ B. , KIRBIYIK O. , OZKINAY F. , BALKAN C. , KARAPINAR D. , AY Y.
Published: December 2009

Summary.  Radioisotope synovectomy (RS) is defined as the intra‐articular injection of radioisotopic agents with the aim of fibrosis on hypertrophic synovium in the target joint. The aim of this study was to investigate genotoxic effects on lymphocytes and malign transformation induced by Yttrium90 (Y90) and Rhenium186 (Re186) in children with haemophilia undergone RS. Forty haemophilia patients were enrolled. The mean age was 16.4 ± 6.2 years (range: 8–40). Y90 was used for knees, Re186 was used for other joints. For safety, cytogenetic analysis was performed to determine potential chromosomal changes after RS procedure at three different time points as prior to procedure, 3rd day and 90th day. For the stimulation of chromosomal breakages, diepoxybutane was used (DEB test). Chromosomal breakages (CBs) were found in 23 patients (67.6%) prior to RS. We have found CBs additionally in nine of 11 patients who had no CBs prior to RS after 3 days of radioisotope exposure. At that time, the patients who had CBs were 29 (85.2%). At day 90, only 21 patients revealed (61.7%) CBs. The mean frequency of CBs slightly but not significantly increased in the 3rd day. However, there was a significant decreasing trend between 3rd and 90th days. Radioisotope synovectomy with Y90 and Re186 does not seem to induce the genotoxic effects significantly on peripheral blood lymphocytes. However, CBs even after one year in the re‐evaluation of four patients, significant decrease in the number of CBs between the 3rd and 90th days and de novo CBs after exposure may be accepted as warning signals for young population. It should also be pointed out that families and patients be informed properly related with historical and potential dangers of radioisotopic agents.
Relationship between symptoms of androgen deficiency and psychological factors and quality of life among Chinese men
Authors: Lee A. M. , Chu L.‐W. , Chong C. S.‐Y. , Chan S.‐Y. , Tam S. , Lam K. S.‐L. , Lam T.‐P.
Published: December 2009

Androgen deficiency in the ageing male (ADAM) was proposed to characterize a symptom cluster of decrease in sexual function and strength, dysphoria and osteopenia in ageing men with decreased levels of androgens. Unlike menopause, literature on the topic is scarce and focuses mainly on the physiological aspects of the problem. However, men with ADAM also face a milieu of psychosocial stressors which may adversely affect their mental health. It is pertinent to examine ADAM within a psychological context. This study aims to determine the prevalence of symptoms of ADAM among Chinese men, and to examine their relationship with psychological distress and quality of life. A cross‐sectional design was employed with standardized questionnaires to assess symptoms of ADAM and related psychological factors. The ADAM questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Perceived Stress Scale, General Health Questionnaire and Short Form Health Survey‐12 were administered to a community sample of 311 Chinese men (aged 40–80) attending a family medicine clinic in Hong Kong. Demographic information was also collected. A total of 87.8% of the sample was screened ADAM positive using the ADAM questionnaire. Age, duration of marriage, occupation, household income and physical health were found to be significantly associated with ADAM status. ADAM positive individuals were found to have higher anxiety and depression scores, higher stress level, higher psychiatric morbidity and poorer physical and mental quality of life compared with their ADAM negative counterparts. Symptoms of ADAM are prevalent among the Chinese. ADAM positivity as measured by the ADAM questionnaire is associated with poorer psychological well‐being and quality of life in the ageing population. Further research and clinical attention to the psychological needs of this population is warranted.
Arrangement of PMCA4 in bovine sperm membrane fractions
Authors: Post H. , Schwarz A. , Brandenburger T. , Aumüller G. , Wilhelm B.
Published: December 2009

The plasma membrane Ca2+‐ATPase (PMCA) is the main restorer of Ca2+ balance in sperm. Particularly, PMCA isoform 4 has an essential function in sperm fertility by its participation in gaining sperm hypermotility. PMCA activity is influenced by its lipid environment. Sperm membranes exhibit lipid raft microdomains or detergent‐resistant membrane domains, enriched in sphingolipids and cholesterol, forming functional specialized areas. Lipid and protein composition of lipid rafts alters during the capacitation process, which is characterized by a cholesterol efflux. In this study, the localization of PMCA4 in lipid membrane fractions of the sperm plasma membrane was investigated. We identified PMCA4 in both the detergent‐resistant membrane (DRM) and in the detergent‐soluble (DS) fraction of caput and cauda sperm, respectively. Capacitation did not influence PMCA4 localization. In immunocytochemical studies PMCA4 was co‐localized with the lipid raft/DRM marker caveolin in the mid piece of caput and cauda sperm. Functional studies with seminal vesicle major protein PDC‐109 showed that the Ca2+‐ATPase activity in DS fractions of cauda sperm and capacitated cauda sperm was stronger enhanced than in the DRMs. In both fractions the effect was statistically significant. In contrast, in lipid overlay experiments PDC‐109 interacted stronger with the lipids extracted from DRMs than with lipids extracted from DS. Our results indicate a possible functional compartmentalization of PMCA in bull sperm membranes and point to a presumptive, yet unknown interaction partner of Ca2+‐ATPase and PDC‐109, mediating the PDC‐109 action from DRMs to the DS fraction of sperm plasma membrane.
Sildenafil efficacy in erectile dysfunction secondary to spinal cord injury depends on the level of cord injuries
Authors: Khorrami M. H. , Javid A. , Moshtaghi D. , Nourimahdavi K. , Mortazavi A. , Zia H. R.
Published: December 2009

To evaluate the efficacy of sildenafil in the treatment of neurogenic erectile dysfunction (ED) secondary to upper motor neuron (UMN) and lower motor neuron (LMN) spinal cord injury (SCI). After taking consents 105 patients suffering from ED were enrolled in this prospective study. Seventy‐two patients had signs and symptoms of UMN and 33 patients had signs and symptoms of LMN or mixed (UMN and LMN) spinal cord injuries. The patients took 50–100 mg sildenafil or placebo tablet at least 45 min before sexual intercourse. Based on a IIEF questionnaire, success in achieving erection adequate for sexual intercourse was compared between sildenafil and placebo groups in UMN and non‐UMN spinal cord injuries. In patients with UMN disease, sildenafil was effective in 82% of patients and its efficacy was statistically higher than placebo (82 vs. 25%, p < 0.05). Twenty‐eight per cent of patients with non‐UMN disease had a favourable response to sildenafil that was not statistically different from placebo. Sildenafil seems more effective in the treatment of neurogenic ED secondary to UMN spinal cord injury compared with that secondary to LMN injury. Actually, its efficacy on LMN injuries does not seem different from placebo and administration of this treatment may not be effective in spinal cord injury which has caused LMN symptoms.