bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Helicobacter pylori infection and gastritis: The Systematic Investigation of gastrointestinaL diseases in China (SILC)
Authors: Zou Duowu , He Jia , Ma Xiuqiang , Liu Wenbin , Chen Jie , Shi Xingang , Ye Ping , Gong Yanfang , Zhao Yanfang , Wang Rui , Yan Xiaoyan , Man Xiaohua , Gao Li , Dent John , Sung Joseph , Wernersson Börje , Johansson Saga , Li Zhaoshen
Published: December 2010

Background and Aim:  Helicobacter pylori infection remains common in East Asia, though its prevalence is decreasing in Western countries. H. pylori‐related atrophic gastritis (AG) may reduce the likelihood of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). We investigated the prevalence of H. pylori infection and AG and their association with endoscopic findings and symptom‐defined GERD in Shanghai.

Methods:  A representative random sample of 3600 Shanghai residents aged 18–80 years was invited to complete a general information questionnaire and a Chinese version of the Reflux Disease Questionnaire, to provide blood samples for H. pylori serology and pepsinogen (PG) I/II assay (to detect AG, defined as PGI < 70 µg/L and/or PGI/PGII < 7), and to undergo endoscopy. Odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated by multivariate logistic regression.

Results:  A total of 1022 Shanghai residents underwent endoscopy and were valid for inclusion in the study. Of these, 71.7% tested positive for H. pylori, 63.8% had AG and 30.5% had moderate/severe AG (PGI < 50 µg/L and/or PGI/PGII < 5). Helicobacter pylori infection was equally common in all age groups. Severity of AG increased with age in women. Reflux esophagitis was inversely associated with AG (OR, 0.23 [CI, 0.09–0.55] for moderate/severe AG compared with no H. pylori or gastritis). However, symptom‐defined GERD showed no clear association with AG.

Conclusions:  Helicobacter pylori infection and AG are very common in Shanghai, and the infection is acquired early in life. Atrophic gastritis is inversely associated with reflux esophagitis but is not significantly associated with symptom‐defined GERD.
Research note: Amorphochlora amoebiformis gen. et comb. nov. (Chlorarachniophyceae)
Authors: Ishida Ken‐ichiro , Yabuki Akinori , Ota Shuhei
Published: December 2010

A chlorarachniophycean alga, Lotharella amoebiformis, which has been classified in the genus Lotharella is placed into a new genus Amorphochlora gen. nov., based on its phylogenetic position, which has been clarified by the recently accumulated molecular phylogenetic information, and the morphological difference between the vegetative cells of the Lotharella species. Following this taxonomic treatment, a new combination Amorphochlora amoebiformis comb. nov., is proposed.
Reproductive biology of Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae), a medicinal tree species from arid zones
Authors: VIKAS  , TANDON RAJESH
Published: December 2010

Neem or the Margosa tree, Azadirachta indica (Meliaceae), is a versatile tree species common in arid zones. We investigated the reproductive biology of Neem, including phenology, floral biology, pollination ecology and the breeding system, in three natural populations in northern India. Phenological observations established that trees within a population flowered synchronously, but populations varied in the time of onset of flowering; a few trees flowered twice a year. An inflorescence bears ∼ 91 bisexual, white and sweet‐scented flowers. The stigma consists of a non‐receptive apical region and a subjacent rim of receptive surface; papillae on the two regions differ in their morphology and function. The occurrence of natural pollination both by wind and insects indicates ambophily. Insect pollinators were predominantly represented by Hymenoptera and Lepidoptera; Apis spp. were the most effective pollinators. Although the occurrence of incomplete dichogamy and a pollen : ovule ratio of ∼ 627 indicates the possibility of autogamy, supplemental pollinations clearly established that the trees were 100% self‐incompatible and incompatibility is regulated at the gametophytic level. Natural fruit set was low (∼ 5%) and hand cross‐pollinations increased the fruit set to ∼ 19%. Our study demonstrated that natural fruit set in Neem is possibly limited by insufficient amounts of xenogamous pollination and resources.
Biomass transformation webs provide a unified approach to consumer–resource modelling
Authors: Getz Wayne M.
Published: December 2010

Ecology Letters (2011) 14: 113–124

An approach to modelling food web biomass flows among live and dead compartments within and among species is formulated using metaphysiological principles that characterise population growth in terms of basal metabolism, feeding, senescence and exploitation. This leads to a unified approach to modelling interactions among plants, herbivores, carnivores, scavengers, parasites and their resources. Also, dichotomising sessile miners from mobile gatherers of resources, with relevance to feeding and starvation time scales, suggests a new classification scheme involving 10 primary categories of consumer types. These types, in various combinations, rigorously distinguish scavenger from parasite, herbivory from phytophagy and detritivore from decomposer. Application of the approach to particular consumer–resource interactions is demonstrated, culminating in the construction of an anthrax‐centred food web model, with parameters applicable to Etosha National Park, Namibia, where deaths of elephants and zebra from the bacterial pathogen, Bacillus anthracis, provide significant subsidies to jackals, vultures and other scavengers.
Stepping in Elton’s footprints: a general scaling model for body masses and trophic levels across ecosystems
Authors: Riede Jens O. , Brose Ulrich , Ebenman Bo , Jacob Ute , Thompson Ross , Townsend Colin R. , Jonsson Tomas
Published: December 2010

Ecology Letters (2011) 14: 169–178

Despite growing awareness of the significance of body‐size and predator–prey body‐mass ratios for the stability of ecological networks, our understanding of their distribution within ecosystems is incomplete. Here, we study the relationships between predator and prey size, body‐mass ratios and predator trophic levels using body‐mass estimates of 1313 predators (invertebrates, ectotherm and endotherm vertebrates) from 35 food‐webs (marine, stream, lake and terrestrial). Across all ecosystem and predator types, except for streams (which appear to have a different size structure in their predator–prey interactions), we find that (1) geometric mean prey mass increases with predator mass with a power‐law exponent greater than unity and (2) predator size increases with trophic level. Consistent with our theoretical derivations, we show that the quantitative nature of these relationships implies systematic decreases in predator–prey body‐mass ratios with the trophic level of the predator. Thus, predators are, on an average, more similar in size to their prey at the top of food‐webs than that closer to the base. These findings contradict the traditional Eltonian paradigm and have implications for our understanding of body‐mass constraints on food‐web topology, community dynamics and stability.
Understanding the ABC of University Governance
Authors: Carnegie Garry D. , Tuck Jacqueline
Published: December 2010

University governance is complex and contested. In view of the seemingly unceasing rise of commercial values within public universities, this contribution argues the case for a holistic, mission‐related integrated governance approach for the Australian public university sector. The ‘ABC of University Governance’, as proposed for broad‐scope governance within the sector, involves an integrated emphasis on the three key components of governance: academic governance, business governance and corporate governance. Respectively, these components of public university governance are concerned with scholarship, performance and conformance. Placing academic governance first in the ABC of university governance reminds us all of the vital role and importance of scholarship, which should never be downplayed or underestimated in public universities.
New Proposals on Theological Apologetics – Faith and Its Critics: A Conversation – By David Ferguson; The Command of Grace: A New Theological Apologetics – By Paul D. Janz; Theology in Search of Foundations – By Randal Rauser
Authors: Oviedo Lluis
Published: December 2010

Recent titles announce a new interest on apologetics, not in the habitual format of a popular theology providing arguments to believe, but rather as a dialogical engagement with the current developments in philosophy and science. The books under exam offer an outstanding review of the meaning for theology and faith of such tendencies, the risks and challenges they pose. Nevertheless, opportunities are perceived through the ongoing dialogue as well, for a better theological endeavor.
Reasoned ‘Balance’ in Europe's Area of Freedom, Security and Justice
Authors: Gibbs Alun Howard
Published: December 2010

This article considers how we might understand a constitutional ‘balancing’ of goods. In doing so, the article considers the EU's ‘Area of Freedom, Security and Justice’ (AFSJ) which poses the challenge as to how we balance our desire to feel secure with commitments to freedom and justice. The approach taken will be to argue that a ‘balance’ is a reasoned judgment, which must be understood in both a symbolic sense but, at the same time, also rooted in the practice of our constitutional decision making. This enables a political community to make sense of its value commitments so as to achieve a reflective balance between them. The article concludes that if the EU is to achieve an area of freedom, security and justice then it must be capable of developing a balance that can be a reasoned understanding of this constitutional commitment.
New species of the snakefly genus Mongoloraphidia (Raphidioptera: Raphidiidae) from Japan and Taiwan, with phylogenetic and biogeographical remarks on the Raphidiidae of Eastern Asia
Authors: LIU Xingyue , ASPÖCK Horst , HAYASHI Fumio , ASPÖCK Ulrike
Published: December 2010

Two species of the snakefly genus MongoloraphidiaAspöck & Aspöck, 1968 from Japan and Taiwan are described as new to science: Mongoloraphidia (Japanoraphidia) occidentalis sp. nov. and Mongoloraphidia (Formosoraphidia) curvata sp. nov. A key to the species of Mongoloraphidia from Eastern Asia is provided. Phylogenetic and biogeographical aspects on the Raphidiidae from Eastern Asia are discussed.
Safety and Efficacy of Transjugular Renal Biopsy Performed by Interventional Nephrologists
Authors: Sarabu Nagaraju , Maddukuri Geetha , Munikrishnappa Devaraj , Martin Kevin J. , Qazi Rizwan A. , Alvarez Alejandro , Schmitz Paul G.
Published: December 2010

Obtaining renal tissue is often critical in the diagnosis and management of patients with renal disease of unknown etiology. Bleeding diathesis, liver disease, and obesity are common contraindications for percutaneous renal biopsy. In high‐risk patients, transjugular renal biopsy is believed to be a safe and effective procedure. This study reports the experience of an academic interventional nephrology program with performing transjugular renal biopsy. We performed a retrospective observational study of 23 patients with either acute or chronic kidney disease with contraindications for percutaneous renal biopsy. All transjugular renal biopsies were performed by interventional nephrologists at our university. We studied the efficacy and safety of transjugular renal biopsy in these patients. Twenty out of 23 (87%) of the procedures yielded adequate tissue for pathologic diagnosis. Three (13%) patients required blood transfusions, none required coil embolization or nephrectomy, and there were no deaths. Even though performing transjugular renal biopsy requires considerable technical expertise and must be performed in an interventional radiology suite, it can be safely and effectively performed by well‐trained interventional nephrologists to achieve pathological diagnosis.
The Relationship Between Deprivation and Forensic Material Recovered from Stolen Vehicles: Is it Affected by Vehicle Condition and Tidiness?
Authors: Shuttlewood Amy C. , Bond John W. , Smith Lisa L.
Published: December 2010

Abstract:  Previous research has shown that as crime scene location deprivation increases (lower socioeconomic status), the recovery of forensic material, principally DNA and fingerprints, also increases. However, this increase does not result in more crimes being solved by forensic means. In this study, we analyze stolen vehicle data and find a statistically significant positive association between deprivation and the amount of forensic material that matched either the victim or an associate of the victim on a criminal database. The nature of this association was investigated further by inspecting recovered stolen vehicles to establish whether the condition of a stolen vehicle and the tidiness of its interior influenced the recovery of forensic material that was attributed to the victim or an associate. Contradictory results suggest that other factors may contribute to understanding the association between the recovery of victim‐ or associate‐attributable forensic material and crime scene location deprivation.
CSF biomarkers in suicide attempters – a principal component analysis
Authors: Lindqvist D. , Janelidze S. , Erhardt S. , Träskman‐Bendz L. , Engström G. , Brundin L.
Published: December 2010

Lindqvist D, Janelidze S, Erhardt S, Träskman‐Bendz L, Engström G, Brundin L. CSF biomarkers in suicide attempters – a principal component analysis.

Objective:  The objective of the present study was to identify biological patterns (factors) among 20 cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarkers in suicide attempters and subsequently analyse their association with suicidal behaviour.

Method:  We measured kynurenic acid, orexin, homovanillic acid (HVA), 5‐hydroxyindoleacetic acid (5‐HIAA), 3‐methoxy‐4‐hydroxyphenylglycol, chemokines, matrix metalloproteases and cytokines in the CSF of 124 drug‐free suicide attempters. Patients were evaluated for suicidality and psychiatric symptoms using well‐defined psychiatric rating scales and followed‐up regarding future suicide. We used principal component analysis to identify factors among the biological substances.

Results:  Four factors were extracted from the 20 biomarkers, explaining 52.4% of the total variance. Factors 1 and 2 were characterized by high loadings of chemokines and cytokines respectively. They were both associated with severe depressive symptoms. Factor 2 was also associated with a high suicidal intent. Factor 4 was characterized by strong loadings of the monoamine metabolites 5‐HIAA and HVA, as well as orexin and interleukin‐6. High scores on this factor were found in patients who performed a violent suicide attempt and in patients who subsequently completed suicide.

Conclusion:  Our results suggest that specific combinations of CSF biomarkers may discriminate between types of suicidal behaviour and indicate increased risk for future suicide.
Cognitive hostility and suicide
Authors: Lemogne C. , Fossati P. , Limosin F. , Nabi H. , Encrenaz G. , Bonenfant S. , Consoli S. M.
Published: December 2010

Lemogne C, Fossati P, Limosin F, Nabi H, Encrenaz G, Bonenfant S, Consoli SM. Cognitive hostility and suicide.

Objective:  To determine whether a specific component of hostility (i.e. cognitive or behavioural) may predict suicide in a prospective design, controlling for depressive mood.

Method:  In 1993, 14 752 members of the ‘GAZ et ELectricité’ (GAZEL) cohort (10 819 men, mean age = 49.0 years; 3933 women, mean age = 46.2 years) completed the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale and at least one subscale (i.e. cognitive or behavioural hostility) of the Buss and Durkee Hostility Inventory. Dates and causes of death were obtained annually.

Results:  During a mean follow‐up of 15.7 years, 28 participants completed suicide (24 men, four women). Suicide was predicted by depressive mood [relative index of inequality (RII) (95% CI) = 8.16 (1.97–33.85)] and cognitive hostility [RII (95% CI) = 10.76 (2.50–46.42)], but not behavioural hostility [RII (95% CI) = 1.37 (0.38–4.97)]. These associations remained significant after adjustment for potential confounders. After mutual adjustment, however, suicide remained significantly associated with cognitive hostility [RII (95% CI) = 8.87 (1.52–51.71)] (RII reduction: 34.6%), but no longer with depressive mood [RII (95% CI) = 2.03 (0.41–10.07)] (RII reduction: 79.1%).

Conclusion:  Cognitive rather than behavioural hostility is associated with an increased risk of suicide, independently of baseline depressive mood.
Regulation of immune responses to HPVinfection and during HPV‐directed immunotherapy
Authors: Bhat Purnima , Mattarollo Stephen R. , Gosmann Christina , Frazer Ian H. , Leggatt Graham R.
Published: December 2010

Summary:  The recent development of vaccines prophylactic against human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has the potential to reduce the incidence of cervical cancer globally by up to 70% over the next 40 years, if universal immunization is adopted. As these prophylactic vaccines do not alter the natural history of established HPV infection, immunotherapies to treat persistent HPV infection and associated precancers would be of benefit to assist with cervical cancer control. Efforts to develop immuno‐therapeutic vaccines have been hampered by the relative non‐immunogenicity of HPV infection, by immunoregulatory processes in skin, and by subversion of immune response induction and immune effector functions by papillomavirus proteins. This review describes HPV‐specific immune responses induced by viral proteins, their regulation by host and viral factors, and highlights some conclusions from our own recent research.
Therapeutic cancer vaccines: are we there yet?
Authors: Klebanoff Christopher A. , Acquavella Nicolas , Yu Zhiya , Restifo Nicholas P.
Published: December 2010

Summary:  Enthusiasm for therapeutic cancer vaccines has been rejuvenated with the recent completion of several large, randomized phase III clinical trials that in some cases have reported an improvement in progression free or overall survival. However, an honest appraisal of their efficacy reveals modest clinical benefit and a frequent requirement for patients with relatively indolent cancers and minimal or no measurable disease. Experience with adoptive cell transfer‐based immunotherapies unequivocally establishes that T cells can mediate durable complete responses, even in the setting of advanced metastatic disease. Further, these findings reveal that the successful vaccines of the future must confront: (i) a corrupted tumor microenvironment containing regulatory T cells and aberrantly matured myeloid cells, (ii) a tumor‐specific T‐cell repertoire that is prone to immunologic exhaustion and senescence, and (iii) highly mutable tumor targets capable of antigen loss and immune evasion. Future progress may come from innovations in the development of selective preparative regimens that eliminate or neutralize suppressive cellular populations, more effective immunologic adjuvants, and further refinement of agents capable of antagonizing immune check‐point blockade pathways.
Methodological Issues in Sampling the Local Immune System of the Female Genital Tract in the Context of HIV Prevention Trials
Authors: Jespers Vicky , Francis Suzanna C. , van de Wijgert Janneke , Crucitti Tania
Published: December 2010

Citation  Jespers V, Francis SC, van de Wijgert J, Crucitti T. Methodological issues in sampling the local immune system of the female genital tract in the context of HIV prevention trials. Am J Reprod Immunol 2011; 65: 368–376

The spread of HIV continues unabated in the most vulnerable populations of the world. HIV prevention methods, such as a vaginal microbicide, a mucosal vaccine, pre‐exposure prophylaxis or a vaccine, are urgently needed in the fight against new infections. We must make a commitment to supporting innovative research and product design, so that one or more of these products provide a halt to the spread of HIV. Above all, these products should be proven to be safe and not negatively disturb the local immune system in a way that facilitates or enhances heterosexual transmission of HIV. HIV specific and non specific cellular and humoral local vaginal immunity must be assessed in clinical trials when testing prevention products for safety or efficacy. A proven, well‐documented and standardized sampling strategy will provide high quality data to be able to assess both safety and local immune responses. In this paper, we will discuss methods for vaginal immunology sampling in the context of clinical trials.
COMPARISON OF RADIOGRAPHY AND ULTRASONOGRAPHY FOR DIAGNOSING SMALL‐INTESTINAL MECHANICAL OBSTRUCTION IN VOMITING DOGS
Authors: SHARMA AJAY , THOMPSON MARGRET S. , SCRIVANI PETER V. , DYKES NATHAN L. , YEAGER AMY E. , FREER SEAN R. , ERB HOLLIS N.
Published: December 2010

A cross‐sectional study was performed on acutely vomiting dogs to compare the accuracy of radiography and ultrasonography for the diagnosis of small‐intestinal mechanical obstruction and to describe several radiographic and ultrasonographic signs to identify their contribution to the final diagnosis. The sample population consisted of 82 adult dogs and small‐intestinal obstruction by foreign body was confirmed in 27/82 (33%) dogs by surgery or necropsy. Radiography produced a definitive result (obstructed or not obstructed) in 58/82 (70%) of dogs; ultrasonography produced a definitive result in 80/82 (97%) of dogs. On radiographs, a diagnosis of obstruction was based on detection of segmental small‐intestinal dilatation, plication, or detection of a foreign body. Approximately 30% (8/27) of obstructed dogs did not have radiographic signs of segmental small‐intestinal dilatation, of which 50% (4/8) were due to linear foreign bodies. The ultrasonographic diagnosis of small‐intestinal obstruction was based on detection of an obstructive lesion, sonographic signs of plication or segmental, small‐intestinal dilatation. The ultrasonographic presence or absence of moderate‐to‐severe intestinal diameter enlargement (due to lumen dilatation) of the jejunum (>1.5 cm) was a useful discriminatory finding and, when present, should prompt a thorough search for a cause of small‐intestinal obstruction. In conclusion, both abdominal radiography and abdominal ultrasonography are accurate for diagnosing small‐intestinal obstruction in vomiting dogs and either may be used depending on availability and examiner choice. Abdominal ultrasonography had greater accuracy, fewer equivocal results and provided greater diagnostic confidence compared with radiography.
The utility of multimodality imaging with CT and MRI in defining rectal tumour volumes for radiotherapy treatment planning: a pilot study
Authors: Tan J , Lim Joon D , Fitt G , Wada M , Lim Joon M , Mercuri A , Marr M , Chao M , Khoo V
Published: December 2010

Aims: This study compares the volumetric and spatial relationships of gross tumour volume (GTV) derived from CT (CT‐GTV) and GTV derived from MRI (MR‐GTV) to determine the utility of multi‐modality imaging for radiotherapy treatment planning in rectal cancer.

Methods and Materials: Fifteen patients with T3 rectal cancer were accrued over 18 months. The male : female ratio was 2:1. The average age was 60.3 years (range 38–79). All patients underwent a diagnostic MRI and CT and MRI simulation. Data sets were co‐registered. A site specialised diagnostic radiologist contoured all volumes in consultation with a radiation oncologist. CT‐GTV was contoured while blinded to MR data sets. MR‐GTV was contoured independently 2–4 weeks later whilst blinded to its respective CT‐GTV data. Tumour volumes were analysed for three anatomical subregions (sigmoid, rectal and anal). Reference points on tumour volumes were used for spatial comparison and analysis.

Results: The mean CT‐GTV/MR‐GTV ratio was 1.2 (range 0.5–2.9). The tumour volume ratios for the rectal subregion were well correlated. CT‐GTV provided adequate spatial coverage of tumour in reference to MR‐GTV with the average mean discrepancy of 0.12 (range −0.08–0.38) or a maximum discrepancy of <0.4 cm (1.54 standard deviation). CT‐GTV coverage was inadequate for tumours with MRI evidence of anal and sigmoid invasion.

Conclusions: Conventional simulation CT imaging provided a reasonable estimate of the GTV. Multi‐modality imaging with staging MRI can assist target volume definition where there is involvement of the sigmoid and anorectal region and avoid geographic misses. The role of a simulation MRI may aid in this process but remains investigational.
Corpus callosum: Normal imaging appearance, variants and pathologic conditions
Authors: Battal B , Kocaoglu M , Akgun V , Bulakbasi N , Tayfun C
Published: December 2010

Various types of lesions can occur within the corpus callosum (CC) which is a white matter tract communicating corresponding regions of the cerebral hemispheres. Magnetic resonance imaging is the modality of choice for the evaluation of the CC. In addition, diffusion weighted imaging and diffusion tensor imaging can provide additional information about the CC. The aim of this study is to illustrate the imaging features of the corpus callosum and its pathologies.
Clioquinol: Review of its Mechanisms of Action and Clinical Uses in Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Bareggi Silvio R. , Cornelli Umberto
Published: December 2010

Clioquinol was produced as a topical antiseptic and marketed as an oral intestinal amebicide in 1934, being used to treat a wide range of intestinal diseases. In the early 1970s, it was withdrawn from the market as an oral agent because of its association with subacute myelo‐optic neuropathy (SMON), a syndrome that involves sensory and motor disturbances in the lower limbs and visual changes. The first methods for determining plasma and tissue clioquinol (5‐chloro‐7‐iodo‐8‐quinolinol) levels were set up in the 1970s and involved HPLC separation with UV detection, these were followed by a more sensitive GC method with electron capture detection and a gaschromatographic‐massspectrometric (GC‐MS) method. Finally, an HPLC method using electrochemical detection has proved to be as highly sensitive and specific as the GC‐MS. In rats, mice, rabbits, and hamsters, clioquinol is rapidily absorbed and undergoes first‐pass metabolization to glucuronate and sulfate conjugates; the concentrations of the metabolites are higher than those of free clioquinol. Bioavailabilty versus intraperitoneal dosingis about 12%. Dogs and monkeys form fewer conjugates. In man, single‐dose concentrations are dose related, and the drug's half‐life is 11–14 h. There is no accumulation, and the drug is much less metabolized to conjugates. Clioquinol acts as a zinc and copper chelator. Metal chelation is a potential therapeutic strategy for Alzheimer's disease (AD) because zinc and copper are involved in the deposition and stabilization of amyloid plaques, and chelating agents can dissolve amyloid deposits in vitro and in vivo. In general, the ability of clioquinol to chelate and redistribute metals plays an important role in diseases characterised by Zn, Cu, Fe dyshomeostasis, such as AD and Parkinson's disease, as it reduces oxidation and the amyloid burden. Zinc chelators may also act as anticancer agents. Animal toxicity studies have revealed species‐specific differences in neurotoxic responses that are related to the serum levels of clioquinol and metabolites. This is also true in humans, who form fewer conjugates. The results of studies of Alzheimer patients are conflicting and need further confirmation. The potential therapeutic role of the two main effects of MPACs (the regulation of the distribution of metals and antioxidants) has not yet been fully explored.
Essential Role for the Major Autolysin in the Fibronectin-Binding Protein-Mediated
Staphylococcus aureus
Biofilm Phenotype
Authors: Houston Patrick , Rowe Sarah E. , Pozzi Clarissa , Waters Elaine M. , O'Gara James P.
Published: December 2010

Staphylococcus aureus
clinical isolates are capable of producing at least two distinct types of biofilm mediated by the fibronectin-binding proteins (FnBPs) or the
icaADBC
-encoded polysaccharide intercellular adhesin (PIA). Deletion of the major autolysin gene
atl
reduced primary attachment rates and impaired FnBP-dependent biofilm production on hydrophilic polystyrene in 12 clinical methicillin-resistant
S. aureus
(MRSA) isolates but had no effect on PIA-dependent biofilm production by 9 methicillin-susceptible
S. aureus
(MSSA) isolates. In contrast, Atl was required for both FnBP- and PIA-mediated biofilm development on hydrophobic polystyrene. Here we investigated the role of Atl in biofilm production on hydrophilic polystyrene. The alternative sigma factor σ
B
, which represses RNAIII expression and extracellular protease production, was required for FnBP- but not PIA-dependent biofilm development. Furthermore, mutation of the
agr
locus enhanced FnBP-dependent biofilm development, whereas a
sarA
mutation, which increases protease production, blocked FnBP-mediated biofilm development. Mutation of
sigB
in MRSA isolate BH1CC lowered primary attachment rates, in part via reduced
atl
transcription. Posttranslational activation or inhibition of Atl activity with phenylmethylsulfonyl fluoride and polyanethole sodium sulfonate or mutation of the Atl amidase active site interfered with lytic activity and biofilm development. Consistent with these observations, extracellular DNA was important for the early stages of Atl/FnBP-dependent biofilm development. Further analysis of
atl
regulation revealed that
atlR
encodes a transcriptional repressor of the major autolysin and that an
atlR
::Tc
r
mutation in BH1CC enhanced biofilm-forming capacity. These data reveal an essential role for the major autolysin in the early events of the FnBP-dependent
S. aureus
biofilm phenotype.
A protocol for evidence-based targeting and evaluation of statewide strategies for preventing falls among community-dwelling older people in Victoria, Australia
Authors: Day Lesley , Finch Caroline F , Hill Keith D , Haines Terry P , Clemson Lindy , Thomas Margaret , Thompson Catherine
Published: December 2010

Background

Falls are a significant threat to the safety, health and independence of older citizens. Despite the now substantial evidence about effective falls prevention interventions, translation into falls reductions has not yet been fully realised. While the hip fracture rate is decreasing, the number and rate of fall-related hospital admissions among older people is increasing. The challenge now is to deliver the most effective interventions efficiently at a population level, and for these interventions to be taken up by older people.

Objective

To support the development, and evaluation of, effective falls prevention policy and practice in the state of Victoria, Australia.

Methods

The RE-AIM model (Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, Implementation, Maintenance) was used to identify strategies for an effective programme. Research objectives were developed to support the strategies. These include: (1) identification of subgroups of older people most frequently admitted to hospital for falls; (2) examining the acceptability of established falls interventions; (3) identification of factors that encourage and support relevant lifestyle changes; (4) identifying opportunities to incorporate confirmed interventions in existing programmes and services; (5) developing guidelines for sustainability. The research results will subsequently guide strategy details for the falls prevention plan. RE-AIM will provide the framework for the evaluation structure.

Outcome measures

Measures to monitor the implementation of the selected interventions will be determined for each intervention, based on the five key factors of the RE-AIM model. The overall effect of the falls prevention plan will be monitored by time series analysis of fall-related hospital admission rates for community-dwelling older people.
The challenge of defining standards of prevention in HIV prevention trials
Authors: Philpott Sean , Heise Lori , McGrory Elizabeth , Paxton Lynn , Hankins Catherine ,   the participants in the 2009 GCM/CDC/UNAIDS Consultation on Standards of Prevention in HIV Prevention Trials
Published: December 2010

As new HIV prevention tools are developed, researchers face a number of ethical and logistic questions about how and when to include novel HIV prevention strategies and tools in the standard prevention package of ongoing and future HIV prevention trials. Current Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS)/World Health Organization (WHO) guidance recommends that participants in prevention trials receive ‘access to all state of the art HIV risk reduction methods’, and that decisions about adding new tools to the prevention package be made in consultation with ‘all relevant stakeholders’. The guidance, however, leaves open questions of both process and implementation. In March 2009, the Global Campaign for Microbicides, UNAIDS and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention convened a consultation to develop practical answers to these questions. Fifty-nine diverse participants, including researchers, ethicists, advocates and policymakers, worked to develop consensus criteria on when to include new HIV prevention tools in future trials. Participants developed a set of questions to guide decision-making, including: whether the method has been recommended by international bodies or adopted at a national level; the size of the effect and weight of the evidence; relevance to the trial population; whether the tool has been approved or introduced in the trial country; whether adding the tool might lead to trial futility; outstanding safety issues and status of the trial. Further work is needed to develop, implement and evaluate approaches to facilitate meaningful stakeholder participation in this deliberative process.
Post mortem scientific sampling and the search for causes of death in intensive care: what information should be given and what consent should be obtained?: Table 1
Authors: Rigaud J P , Quenot J P , Borel M , Plu I , Hervé C , Moutel G
Published: December 2010

Purpose

The search for cause of death is important to improve knowledge and provide answers for the relatives of the deceased. Medical autopsy following unexplained death in hospital is one way to identify cause of death but is difficult to carry out routinely. Post mortem sampling (PMS) of tissues via thin biopsy needle or ‘mini incisions’ in the skin may be a useful alternative. A study was undertaken to assess how this approach is perceived by intensive care doctors and also to evaluate how this practice is considered in ethical terms in France.

Methods

A study of PMS practices immediately after death in 10 intensive care departments was performed. The medical director of each centre was interviewed by telephone and asked to describe practices in their unit and to outline the questions raised by this practice.

Results

PMS is routinely performed in 70% of the units which responded, without systematically obtaining formal consent and without precise rules for communicating results. Approaches to PMS differed between centres, but all physicians felt that PMS is useful for the scientific information it gives and also for the information it provides for relatives. All physicians regret the lack of standards to structure PMS practices.

Conclusion

Information from post mortem examinations is important for society to inform about causes of death, for doctors to improve practices and for decision-makers responsible for organising care. Debate persists regarding the balance between individual rights and community interests. It is suggested that an approach for identifying cause of death could easily be integrated into the relationship between carers and relatives, provided full transparency is maintained.
Retractions in the scientific literature: is the incidence of research fraud increasing?
Authors: Steen R Grant
Published: December 2010

Background

Scientific papers are retracted for many reasons including fraud (data fabrication or falsification) or error (plagiarism, scientific mistake, ethical problems). Growing attention to fraud in the lay press suggests that the incidence of fraud is increasing.

Methods

The reasons for retracting 742 English language research papers retracted from the PubMed database between 2000 and 2010 were evaluated. Reasons for retraction were initially dichotomised as fraud or error and then analysed to determine specific reasons for retraction.

Results

Error was more common than fraud (73.5% of papers were retracted for error (or an undisclosed reason) vs 26.6% retracted for fraud). Eight reasons for retraction were identified; the most common reason was scientific mistake in 234 papers (31.5%), but 134 papers (18.1%) were retracted for ambiguous reasons. Fabrication (including data plagiarism) was more common than text plagiarism. Total papers retracted per year have increased sharply over the decade (r=0.96; p<0.001), as have retractions specifically for fraud (r=0.89; p<0.001). Journals now reach farther back in time to retract, both for fraud (r=0.87; p<0.001) and for scientific mistakes (r=0.95; p<0.001). Journals often fail to alert the naïve reader; 31.8% of retracted papers were not noted as retracted in any way.

Conclusions

Levels of misconduct appear to be higher than in the past. This may reflect either a real increase in the incidence of fraud or a greater effort on the part of journals to police the literature. However, research bias is rarely cited as a reason for retraction.
HLA class II DPB1 and DRB1 polymorphisms associated with genetic susceptibility to beryllium toxicity
Authors: Rosenman K D , Rossman M , Hertzberg V , Reilly M J , Rice C , Kanterakis E , Monos D
Published: December 2010

Objectives

Chronic beryllium disease (CBD) is a hypersensitivity granulomatous pulmonary disease caused by exposure to the metal beryllium (Be2+). Our objective was to extend current knowledge of the genetics of beryllium disease by examining all HLA-DPB1 and HLA-DPR1 gene polymorphisms and the interactions between them.

Methods

DNA-based typing of HLA-DPB1 and HLA-DRB1 loci at the allele level was performed on 65 CBD, 44 beryllium sensitised (BeS) but without CBD and 288 non-affected, beryllium exposed controls.

Results

The DPβE69 residue regardless of zygosity, but particularly if present on non-*0201 alleles, was of primary importance for the development of CBD and BeS, while other negatively charged residues DPβDE55, 56 and DPβDE84, 85 incrementally increased, although not independently, the risk. The DPβE69 positive alleles with charge −7 or −9 were associated with both CBD and BeS. The polymorphic residues DPβE69, DPβDE55, 56 and DPβDE84, 85 were responsible for the −9 charge and the first two residues for the −7 charge.

Conclusions

In the absence of DPβE69, DRβE71 is a risk factor for CBD and BeS. DPβE69 and DRβE71 are adjacent to other amino acids that are also negatively charged, suggesting that the positively charged Be2+modifies the local environment of the epitopes in a way that promotes interactions between peptides and T cells and results in CBD. Finally, the protective effect of the DPB1*0201 positive haplotype may involve particular polymorphisms outside of the DPB1 gene.
Does prenatal cadmium exposure affect fetal and child growth?
Authors: Lin Chien-Mu , Doyle Pat , Wang Duolao , Hwang Yaw-Huei , Chen Pau-Chung
Published: December 2010

Objectives

Cadmium is known to be a significant health hazard, but most information comes from studies of adults. The effects of exposure to cadmium during fetal life on early growth and development remain uncertain. In this study we investigated the placental transport of cadmium and the effects of prenatal cadmium exposure on fetal and child growth in Taiwan.

Methods

The data in this study were from a birth cohort study in Taiwan which started in 2004. Pregnant women were recruited from four hospitals and interviewed after delivery to collect information on themselves and their infants. Children were followed up to obtain information on growth up to 3 years of age. Whole blood cadmium concentrations in maternal and cord blood samples were measured and the relationship with birth size and growth assessed using linear regression and mixed models.

Results

321 maternal blood samples and 402 cord blood samples were eligible for analysis. Among 289 pairs with maternal and cord blood suitable for measurement, the median cadmium concentration in cord blood (0.31 μg/l) was less than that in maternal blood (1.05 μg/l), with low correlation between the two (r=0.04). An increase in cord blood cadmium was found to be associated with newborn decreased head circumference and to be significantly and consistently associated with a decrease in height, weight and head circumference up to 3 years of age.

Conclusions

Placental transport of cadmium is limited. However, prenatal cadmium exposure may have a detrimental effect on head circumference at birth and child growth in the first 3 years of life.
Cystic lesions of the pancreas: current trends in approach and management
Authors: Vyas Soumil , Markar Sheraz , Ezzat Tarek M , Ajit Abraham
Published: December 2010

The more frequent deployment of cross-sectional imaging for various abdominal conditions has resulted in an increased detection of cystic pancreatic lesions, particularly cystic pancreatic neoplasms. Cystic pancreatic lesions may be neoplastic or non-neoplastic. They may appear radiologically similar and often present a diagnostic dilemma; they need to be diagnosed and differentiated with accuracy in order to offer optimum treatment. Some of the cystic neoplasms are potentially malignant and have a wide spectrum of histological variation from the frankly benign ‘adenomas’ to invasive adenocarcinomas .When identified, these cystic lesions need a systematic work up and a diagnostic algorithm should be followed to its logical conclusion. This article reviews these cystic lesions of the pancreas, neoplastic and pseudocysts, and aims to update readers with the current trends in their diagnosis and management.
The value of a liaison neurology service in a district general hospital
Authors: McColgan P , Carr A S , McCarron M O
Published: December 2010

Background

Healthcare development in the UK has resulted in an increase in neurologists working in district general hospitals.

Methods

The aim of the study was to determine the use of a neurologist for inpatient diagnosis and management, and to measure a neurologist's diagnostic reliability in a district general hospital over a 27-month period. Patient data were prospectively recorded. Follow-up was performed independently by two clinicians reviewing the medical notes. Reasons for diagnostic change were determined.

Results

306 inpatients were referred to the neurologist between 1 January 2007 and 31 March 2009 (2% of medical admissions). Mean (SD) age was 49.3 (18.8) years, and the female/male ratio was 1.2:1. Epilepsy and stroke were the most common diagnoses. Diagnostic concordance between referring physician and neurologist ranged from κ score 0.13 (spinal pathology) to 0.83 (central nervous system infection). Neurological opinion resulted in diagnostic change in 38.2% and management change in 88.8%. Only 1.6% of patients remained without a diagnosis, a fourfold improvement from physician referral. After medical records had been reviewed, 3.3% of inpatient diagnoses (10 of 306 patients) changed from the original diagnosis by the neurologist. Specialist investigation helped in revising diagnoses in four of the 10 diagnostic changes.

Conclusion

This study shows that in a district general hospital a neurologist can contribute to inpatient diagnosis and management with minimal diagnostic change over time, suggesting reliability of this service.
A FIRST APPROACH TOWARDS NORMAL PARAMETRIZATIONS OF ALGEBRAIC SURFACES
Authors: PÉREZ-DÍAZ S. , SENDRA J. R. , VILLARINO C.
Published: December 2010

In this paper we analyze the problem of deciding the normality (i.e. the surjectivity) of a rational parametrization of a surface [Formula: see text]. The problem can be approached by means of elimination theory techniques, providing a proper close subset [Formula: see text] where surjectivity needs to be analyzed. In general, these direct approaches are unfeasible because [Formula: see text] is very complicated and its elements computationally hard to manipulate. Motivated by this fact, we study ad hoc computational alternative methods that simplifies [Formula: see text]. For this goal, we introduce the notion of pseudo-normality, a concept that provides necessary conditions for a parametrization for being normal. Also, we provide an algorithm for deciding the pseudo-normality. Finally, we state necessary and sufficient conditions on a pseudo-normal parametrization to be normal. As a consequence, certain types of parametrizations are shown to be always normal. For instance, pseudo-normal polynomial parametrizations are normal. Moreover, for certain class of parametrizations, we derive an algorithm for deciding the normality.
IRREDUCIBLE ELEMENTS IN ALGEBRAIC LATTICES
Authors: SWAMY U. M. , VENKATESWARLU B.
Published: December 2010

α-Irreducible and α-Strongly Irreducible Ideals of a ring have been characterized in [2] and [4]. A complete lattice which is generated by compact elements is called an algebraic lattice for the simple reason that every such lattice is isomorphic to the lattice of subalgebras of a suitable universal algebra and vice-versa. In this paper, we characterize the irreducible elements and strongly irreducible elements in an algebraic lattice, which extends the results in [4] to arbitrary algebraic lattices. Also we obtain certain necessary and sufficient conditions, in terms of irreducible elements, for an algebraic lattice to satisfy the complete distributivity.
CHARACTERIZATION OF TERNARY ALGEBRAIC OPERATIONS OF IDEMPOTENT ALGEBRAS
Authors: PASHAZADEH J. , MOVSISYAN YU.
Published: December 2010

In this paper, we characterize the set of all ternary algebraic (or polynomial) operations of idempotent algebras that have at least one binary and one ternary algebraic operation depending on every variable, and there exists an integer r > 2 such that there is not any r-ary algebraic operation depending on every variable. We prove that this set forms a finite DeMorgan algebra with a fixed element and then we characterize this DeMorgan algebra.
NORMAL FORMS FOR AUTOMORPHISMS OF UNIVERSAL COXETER GROUPS AND PALINDROMIC AUTOMORPHISMS OF FREE GROUPS
Authors: PIGGOTT ADAM , RUANE KIM
Published: December 2010

We explicitly construct Markov languages of normal forms for the groups in the title of the paper and closely related groups. A Markov language of normal forms is a choice of "preferred spelling" for each group element such that the collection of choices is particularly simple in a language theoretic sense.
DESCRIPTIVE COMPLEXITY OF FINITE ABELIAN GROUPS
Authors: GOMAA WALID
Published: December 2010

We investigate the descriptive complexity of finite abelian groups. Using Ehrenfeucht–Fraïssé games we find upper and lower bounds on quantifier depth, quantifier alternations, and number of variables of a first-order sentence that distinguishes two finite abelian groups. Our main results are the following. Let G1 and G2 be a pair of non-isomorphic finite abelian groups. Then there exists a positive integer m that divides one of the two groups' orders such that the following holds: (1) there exists a first-order sentence φ that distinguishes G1 and G2 such that φ is existential, has quantifier depth O(log m), and has at most 5 variables and (2) if φ is a sentence that distinguishes G1 and G2 then φ must have quantifier depth Ω( log m). These results are applied to (1) get bounds on the first-order distinguishability of dihedral groups, (2) to prove that on the class of finite groups both cyclicity and the closure of a single element are not first-order definable, and (3) give a different proof for the first-order undefinability of simplicity, nilpotency, and the normal closure of a single element on the class of finite groups (their undefinability were shown by Koponen and Luosto in an unpublished paper).