bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The emergence of lineage-specific chromosomal topologies from coordinate gene regulation
Authors: Rajapakse Indika , Perlman Michael D. , Scalzo David , Kooperberg Charles , Groudine Mark , Kosak Steven T.
Published: March 2009

Although the importance of chromosome organization during mitosis is clear, it remains to be determined whether the nucleus assumes other functionally relevant chromosomal topologies. We have previously shown that homologous chromosomes have a tendency to associate during hematopoiesis according to their distribution of coregulated genes, suggesting cell-specific nuclear organization. Here, using the mathematical approaches of distance matrices and coupled oscillators, we model the dynamic relationship between gene expression and chromosomal associations during the differentiation of a multipotential hematopoietic progenitor. Our analysis reveals dramatic changes in total genomic order: Commitment of the progenitor results in an initial increase in entropy at both the level of gene coregulation and chromosomal organization, which we suggest represents a phase transition, followed by a progressive decline in entropy during differentiation. The stabilization of a highly ordered state in the differentiated cell types results in lineage-specific chromosomal topologies and is related to the emergence of coherence—or self-organization—between chromosomal associations and coordinate gene regulation. We discuss how these observations may be generally relevant to cell fate decisions encountered by progenitor/stem cells.
Joint estimation of copy number variation and reference intensities on multiple DNA arrays using GADA
Authors: Pique-Regi Roger , Ortega Antonio , Asgharzadeh Shahab
Published: March 2009

Motivation: The complexity of a large number of recently discovered copy number polymorphisms is much higher than initially thought, thus making it more difficult to detect them in the presence of significant measurement noise. In this scenario, separate normalization and segmentation is prone to lead to many false detections of changes in copy number. New approaches capable of jointly modeling the copy number and the non-copy number (noise) hybridization effects across multiple samples will potentially lead to more accurate results.

Methods: In this article, the genome alteration detection analysis (GADA) approach introduced in our previous work is extended to a multiple sample model. The copy number component is independent for each sample and uses a sparse Bayesian prior, while the reference hybridization level is not necessarily sparse but identical on all samples. The expectation maximization (EM) algorithm used to fit the model iteratively determines whether the observed hybridization levels are more likely due to a copy number variation or to a shared hybridization bias.

Results: The new proposed approach is compared with the currently used strategy of separate normalization followed by independent segmentation of each array. Real microarray data obtained from HapMap samples are randomly partitioned to create different reference sets. Using the new approach, copy number and reference intensity estimates are significantly less variable if the reference set changes; and a higher consistency on copy numbers detected within HapMap family trios is obtained. Finally, the running time to fit the model grows linearly in the number samples and probes.

Availability:  http://biron.usc.edu/∼piquereg/GADA

Contact:  rpique@ieee.org; shahab@chla.usc.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Increased neutrophil lifespan in patients with congestive heart failure
Authors: Tracchi Irene , Ghigliotti Giorgio , Mura Marzia , Garibaldi Silvano , Spallarossa Paolo , Barisione Chiara , Boasi Valentina , Brunelli Michele , Corsiglia Luca , Barsotti Antonio , Brunelli Claudio
Published: March 2009

Aims

Congestive heart failure (CHF) can be thought of as a state of chronic immune activation. Polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) apoptosis is one of the mechanisms responsible for the resolution of inflammation. A reduced PMN apoptotic rate in CHF patients may generate a persistent inflammatory response and hence mediate tissue damage in this group of patients. We aimed to measure levels of spontaneous apoptosis of circulating PMNs in CHF patients and in controls, and to examine whether NYHA class, left ventricular ejection fraction (LV‐EF), and laboratory parameters of inflammation, endothelial damage, and of liver and renal function, could predict the rate of PMN apoptosis in CHF patients.

Methods and results

A total of 29 CHF patients and 26 controls were studied. Propidium iodide and flow cytometry were used to assess PMN apoptosis. Delay in PMN apoptosis was expressed as percentage (expressed as median, first and third quartiles) of surviving PMNs in the study subjects. We found an increased percentage of surviving PMNs [38(27.1–47.1)] in CHF patients compared with controls [19.4 (15.8–25.2)] (P < 0.05). The PMN survival rate in the CHF group was correlated to NYHA class, and plasma levels of C‐reactive protein and alkaline phosphatase, while it was inversely correlated to LV‐EF and protein levels. A positive relationship between PMN survival and increased ex vivo endothelial apoptosis was found.

Conclusion

Increased PMN lifespan in patients with worsening CHF could be used as a novel measurement of tissue and endothelial damage in this group of patients.
Biological and molecular characterization of two Zucchini yellow mosaic virus isolates from Syria
Authors: Chikh Ali M. , Maoka T. , Natsuaki K. T.
Published: March 2009

Zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV) is the most prevalent virus in cucurbits in Syria. Two Syrian ZYMV isolates, SYZY‐1 and SYZY‐3, collected from a courgette field in 2006 were characterized using molecular and biological means for the first time. These isolates showed biological diversity with regard to their pathogenicity and symptoms. SYZY‐1 was more aggressive in cucurbits, but could not induce any infection in Fabaceae. On the contrary, SYZY‐3 could not infect cucumber and melon plants, induced milder symptoms in courgette and watermelon but induced local and occasional systemic infection in Fabaceae tested. Nonetheless, according to their molecular characteristics, SYZY‐1 and SYZY‐3 were closely related. The SYZY‐1 CP nucleotide and amino acid sequences had similarity of 99.5% and 100% with those of SYZY‐3, respectively. The high similarity of the CP nucleotide sequences of SYZY‐1 and SYZY‐3 with that of a ZYMV isolate from Germany suggests a common origin. Adaptation to different hosts might have caused the variable biological properties of these Syrian ZYMV isolates.
Identification of de novo deletion in the factor VIII gene by MLPA technique in two girls with isolated factor VIII deficiency
Authors: LANNOY N. , ABINET I. , DAHAN K. , HERMANS C.
Published: March 2009

Summary.  Blood coagulation evaluation performed preoperatively in two unrelated girls with isolated prolongation of the activated partial thromboplastin time (APTT) and no family history of bleeding disorder revealed a mild factor VIII deficiency. Quantitative and qualitative defect of von Willebrand factor was not present. Genetic analysis of the F8 gene identified no mutations. In contrast, quantitative gene screening using multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification (MLPA) revealed a large heterozygous deletion of the F8 gene in both patients consistent with a carrier status of sporadic severe haemophilia A. This report illustrates that MLPA technique represents an efficient method to screen for large F8 gene deletions in sporadic undiagnosed carriers of haemophilia A.
HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceptions of rural nurses in South Africa
Authors: Delobelle Peter , Rawlinson Jakes L. , Ntuli Sam , Malatsi Inah , Decock Rika , Depoorter Anne Marie
Published: March 2009

Title.  HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceptions of rural nurses in South Africa.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study exploring HIV/AIDS‐related knowledge, attitudes, practices and perceptions of nurses in the largely black and rural Limpopo Province of South Africa.

Background.  Studies of HIV/AIDS knowledge, attitudes and practices among healthcare workers in developing countries have shown gaps in knowledge and fear of contagion, coupled with ambivalent attitudes in caring for patients with HIV/AIDS and inconsistent universal precautions adherence.

Method.  A cross‐sectional study of a random sample of primary health care (PHC) (n = 71) and hospital nurses (n = 69) was carried out in 2005, using a questionnaire, focus groups and in‐depth interviews.

Findings.  Hospital nurses reported a higher frequency of care for patients with HIV/AIDS (P < 0·05), but less HIV/AIDS training when compared to PHC nurses (P < 0·001). HIV/AIDS knowledge was moderately adequate and associated with professional rank, frequency of care and training (P < 0·001). Attitudes towards patients with HIV/AIDS were mainly positive and were statistically significantly correlated with HIV/AIDS knowledge (P < 0·01) and training (P < 0·05). Three out of four nurses reported that they practised universal precautions (76·1%), but fear of occupational HIV transmission and lack of injection safety was found. Seven in 10 nurses reported previous needlestick injuries, but postexposure prophylaxis was not available in all healthcare facilities. Participants reported a higher workload because of HIV/AIDS, lack of training impacting negatively on their work, and stigma and shared confidentiality affecting them emotionally.

Conclusion.  There is a need for accelerated HIV/AIDS training of rural nurses and for wider implementation of universal precautions and postexposure prophylaxis availability in public health facilities in southern Africa.
Low interleukin‐10 production by monocytes of patients with a self‐limiting hepatitis C virus infection
Authors: Martin‐Blondel G. , Gales A. , Bernad J. , Cuzin L. , Delobel P. , Barange K. , Izopet J. , Pipy B. , Alric L.
Published: March 2009

Summary. Host factors seem to be crucial for the spontaneous clearance of hepatitis C virus (HCV). Monocytes play a pivotal role in innate immunity and help regulate adaptive responses. This study assesses the characteristics of monocytes from patients with self‐limiting HCV infections. We studied 35 consecutive patients [11 with a self‐limiting HCV infection, 16 chronically infected with HCV and sustained virological responders (SVR) following antiviral therapy, and eight chronically infected HCV but untreated] and eight healthy donors (HD). The production of interleukin (IL)‐10, tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) and IL‐12p40 by monocytes stimulated with lipopolysaccharides(LPS) or HCV Core protein was measured by enzyme‐linked immunoassay. Monocyte surface markers were analysed by flow cytometry. LPS and Core protein triggered IL‐10 and TNF‐α production, but monocytes from self‐limiting infection patients produced significantly less IL‐10 and TNF‐α than those of SVR, chronically infected or HD (P < 0.05), while IL‐12p40 production was unchanged. This cytokine production profile did not appear to be due to expansion of the CD14+CD16+monocyte subset or to a classical or alternative activation monocyte profile. Monocytes from self‐limiting infection patients had more CCR7 than those from SVR or chronically infected patients (P < 0.05). Monocytes of self‐limiting infection patients appear to produce little IL‐10 and TNF‐α in response to viral or unspecific stimulation and to have a higher CCR7 expression. This profile seems to be independent to a particular monocyte subset or activation state. Low IL‐10 production may help establish an effective immune response and spontaneous HCV clearance.
Susceptibility of Iberian trees to Phytophthora ramorum and P. cinnamomi
Authors: Moralejo E. , García‐Muñoz J. A. , Descals E.
Published: March 2009

The capacity of Phytophthora ramorum to colonize the inner bark of 18 native and two exotic tree species from the Iberian Peninsula was tested. Living logs were wound‐inoculated in a growth chamber with three isolates belonging to the EU1 and two to the NA1 clonal lineages of P. ramorum. Most of the Quercus species ranked as highly susceptible in experiments carried out in summer, with mean lesion areas over 100 cm2 in Q. pubescens, Q. pyrenaica, Q. faginea and Q. suber and as large as 273 cm2 in Q. canariensis, ca. 40 days after inoculation. Quercus ilex ranked as moderately susceptible to P. ramorum, forming lesions up to 133 cm2 (average 17·2 cm2). Pinus halepensis and P. pinea were highly susceptible, exhibiting long, narrow lesions; but three other pine species, P. pinaster, P. nigra and P. sylvestris, were resistant to slightly susceptible. No significant difference in aggressiveness was found between the isolates of P. ramorum. In addition, there was evidence of genetic variation in susceptibility within host populations, and of significant seasonal variation in host susceptibility in some Quercus species. The results suggest a high risk of some Iberian oaks to P. ramorum, especially in forest ecosystems in southwestern Spain, where relict populations of Q. canariensis grow amongst susceptible understory species such as Rhododendron ponticum and Viburnum tinus. One isolate of P. cinnamomi used as positive control in all the inoculations was also highly aggressive to Iberian oaks and Eucalyptus dalrympleana.
Proteome analysis of apical and basal regions of poplar stems under gravitropic stimulation
Authors: Azri Wassim , Chambon Christophe , Herbette Stéphane , Brunel Nicole , Coutand Catherine , Leplé Jean‐Charles , Ben Rejeb Ichrak , Ammar Saïda , Julien Jean‐Louis , Roeckel‐Drevet Patricia
Published: March 2009

Gravity is a constant force guiding the direction of plant growth. In young poplar stem, reorientation of the apical region is mainly obtained by differential growth of elongating primary tissues. At the base, where elongation is achieved but where the cambium is active, reorientation is due to asymmetrical formation of reaction wood. After 45 min of gravistimulation, the stem showed no reorientation, but 1 week later, reaction wood was observed at the base of the stem. To determine the molecular mechanisms taking place at the top and base of the stem, after 45 min or 1 week of inclination, the changes induced in protein accumulation were studied by two‐dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and quantitatively analyzed using image analysis software. Around 300 protein spots were reproducibly detected and analyzed. Forty percent of these proteins showed significant changes after inclination. Mass spectrometry analysis of 135 spots led to the identification of 60 proteins involved in a wide range of activities and metabolisms. Very different patterns of protein expression were obtained according to conditions tested, highlighting the complexity of gravitropic responses. Our results suggest that primary and secondary tissues present specific mechanisms to sense reorientation and to respond to inclination. Some selected proteins are discussed.
Accumulation of Elsinochrome Phytotoxin does not Correlate with Fungal Virulence among Elsinoë fawcettii Isolates in Florida
Authors: Wang Li‐Yuan , Bau Huey‐Jiunn , Chung Kuang‐Ren
Published: March 2009

Citrus scab caused by Elsinoë fawcettii is cosmopolitan in humid citrus‐growing areas. We have previously demonstrated that production of non‐host selective elsinochrome phytotoxin is a prerequisite for fungal full virulence and lesion formation. In this study we evaluated 71 field‐collected isolates from Florida for pathogenicity and toxin production and found most of the isolates to be pathogenic to rough lemon, grapefruit and sour orange and able to produce elsinochromes in axenic culture. Elsinochromes were recovered, for the first time, from leaf lesions infected by 21 isolates, including four isolates that did not produce any measurable toxin in culture. There was no direct correspondence between the level of elsinochrome production in culture and virulence among the isolates. However, Elsinoë isolates failed to produce elsinochromes in culture and in planta were non‐pathogenic to citrus hosts tested. Several isolates were non‐pathogenic or only moderately virulent to the citrus hosts tested even though they could produce elsinochromes in culture, a phenotype not previously described in Florida.
Comparison of Two Different Programmes of Ovulation Synchronization in the Treatment of Ovarian Cysts in Dairy Cows
Authors: Gundling N , Drews S , Hoedemaker M
Published: March 2009

Contents

It was the aim of this field study to evaluate two different protocols of ovulation synchronization for the treatment of ovarian cysts and their effect on reproductive performance in dairy cows. In addition, factors with a possible influence on treatment success and pregnancy outcome as well as costs per pregnancy were analysed. The study was performed with 130 German Holsteins with ovarian cysts diagnosed on days 55 to 60 postpartum. Cows belonging to group 1 (n = 65) received a modified ovsynch protocol [day 0: 0.15 mg cloprostenol (PGF) + 0.02 mg buserelin acetate (GnRH); day 14: PGF; day 16: GnRH]. Group 2 (n = 65) was treated with the conventional ovsynch protocol (day 0: GnRH; day 7: PGF; day 9: GnRH). Timed artificial insemination was performed 20 to 24 h later. Cows without ovarian cysts served as controls. Treatment success (disappearance of the ovarian cyst) after the first ovsynch cycle was higher in group 1 (66.2%) than in group 2 (23.1%, p < 0.05). Reproductive measures in group 1 were comparable with those of the control group and, compared with group 2, were conspicuously better (66.2%, 76.9%, 83.1%, 59.5% vs. 40.0%, 50.7%, 60.0%, 27.5% for cumulative pregnancy rate after treatment cycle 1 to 3 and second service conception rate, respectively, p < 0.05). Overconditioned cows and cows with larger ovarian cysts showed a diminished treatment and pregnancy success. In group 1, costs per pregnancy were only slightly higher than in the control group (group 1: €352.44, group 2: €484.59, control group: €333.77). In conclusion, our results suggest that ovsynch protocols can be used in the treatment of ovarian cysts. The modified ovsynch protocol led to a better cure rate as well as a better reproductive performance, and was economically beneficial compared with a conventional ovsynch protocol.
The meaning of complementary therapy from the perspective of Thai women with breast cancer
Authors: Sirisupluxana Piriyalux , Sripichyakan Kasara , Wonghongkul Tipaporn , Sethabouppha Hunsa , Pierce Penny F.
Published: March 2009

Abstract  A qualitative study based on Heideggerian phenomenology was conducted with 17 Thai women who had survived breast cancer and had utilized at least one type of complementary therapy. The study explored the meaning of such therapy and the data were collected by an in‐depth interview, a demographic data‐recording form, and a reflective journal. The data were analyzed by using an interpretative process that was described by Cohen, Kahn, and Steeves. Six themes were generated in relation to the meaning of complementary therapy as perceived by the participants: cancer‐controlling treatment; mental strengthening; mind and body therapy; self‐determination; natural therapy; and conventional therapy integration. The knowledge gained from this study will help health‐care providers better understand the role that complementary therapies play in the lives of women whose lives are threatened by cancer. It is important for health‐care providers to be more proactive in the culturally sensitive promotion of using complementary therapies based on the women's values and preferences.
Differential grazing of two heterotrophic nanoflagellates on marine Synechococcus strains
Authors: Zwirglmaier Katrin , Spence Ed , Zubkov Mikhail V. , Scanlan David J. , Mann Nicholas H.
Published: March 2009

Grazing of heterotrophic nanoflagellates on marine picophytoplankton presents a major mortality factor for this important group of primary producers. However, little is known of the selectivity of the grazing process, often merely being thought of as a general feature of cell size and motility. In this study, we tested grazing of two heterotrophic nanoflagellates, Paraphysomonas imperforata and Pteridomonas danica, on strains of marine Synechococcus. Both nanoflagellates proved to be selective in their grazing, with Paraphysomonas being able to grow on 5, and Pteridomonas on 11, of 37 Synechococcus strains tested. Additionally, a number of strains (11 for Paraphysomonas, 9 for Pteridomonas) were shown to be ingested, but not digested (and thus did not support growth of the grazer). Both the range of prey strains that supported growth as well as those that were ingested but not digested was very similar for the two grazers, suggesting a common property of these prey strains that lent them susceptible to grazing. Subsequent experiments on selected Synechococcus strains showed a pronounced difference in grazing susceptibility between wild‐type Synechococcus sp. WH7803 and a spontaneous phage‐resistant mutant derivative, WH7803PHR, suggesting that cell surface properties of the Synechococcus prey are an important attribute influencing grazing vulnerability.
Mortality and risk stratification in patients with Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhoea
Authors: Bhangu S. , Bhangu A. , Nightingale P. , Michael A.
Published: March 2009

Aim  This study aimed to describe the mortality in hospital patients with a first documented episode of Clostridium difficile‐associated diarrhoea (CDAD) and to identify prognostic risk factors.

Method  A cohort study of 158 patients was carried out with CDAD diagnosed over a 8‐month period in a large acute UK teaching hospital. Logistic multivariable regression aided construction of a scoring system to stratify risk of death. The main outcome measure was the 30‐day inpatient mortality.

Results  Most affected patients were medical (n = 101, 64%), with general surgical (n = 30, 19%) and orthopaedic patients (n = 27, 17%) forming the rest. General surgical patients (mean age 78 years) were significantly younger than medical (82 years) or orthopaedic patients (85 years, P = 0.008). Overall 30‐day mortality was 38%. 30‐day mortality was higher in medical (46%) and orthopaedic patients (37%) compared with general surgical patients (13%, P = 0.006). Most surgical patients were those admitted as an emergency. A scoring system was devised and used within the first 72 h. A point was awarded for each of the following: age ≥ 80 years, clinically severe disease (sepsis, peritonitis, ≥ 10 episodes of diarrhoea in 24 h), WCC ≥ 20 or CRP ≥ 150, urea ≥ 15, albumin ≤ 20. Point counts of 0–1, 2–3 and 4–5 were associated with mortality rates of 22%, 55% and 89% respectively.

Conclusion  Inpatient mortality from CDAD is high. Variability exists between different specialities. Patients at high risk of death can potentially be identified earlier using clinical and biochemical risk factors.
High genetic divergence of hormogastrid earthworms (Annelida, Oligochaeta) in the central Iberian Peninsula: evolutionary and demographic implications
Authors: Novo Marta , Almodóvar Ana , Díaz‐Cosín Darío J.
Published: March 2009

Hormogastridae earthworms are highly important for the functioning of the Mediterranean soil system. However, little is known about the species distribution and genetic diversity of these soil invertebrates. In the present study, the genetic differentiation and gene flow were studied among populations of hormogastrids from the central Iberian Peninsula. A 648‐bp portion of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase I gene was sequenced for 82 individuals from 7 localities, resulting in the identification of 38 haplotypes exclusive to localities. All of the individuals were morphologically identified asHormogaster elisae, but the high genetic divergence found among populations (up to 20.20%) suggests the occurrence of more than one cryptic species within this region. Further analysis of the phylogenetic relationships revealed six different evolutionary lineages coincident with geographical location, including the two nearest populations Molar and Redueña as one evolutionary unit. From these results, at least three new species could be inferred, in addition to the morphospeciesH. elisae s.s. Partitioning of genetic variance among populations indicated that isolation by distance was the primary agent for differentiation of the investigated hormogastrid populations. Our data suggest that the evolutionary lineages forH. elisae s.l.originated between the late Miocene and the early Pleistocene, but that mtDNA genealogies coalesce on a more recent scale of a few thousand years.
Paclitaxel incorporated in hydrophobically derivatized hyperbranched polyglycerols for intravesical bladder cancer therapy
Authors: Mugabe Clement , Hadaschik Boris A. , Kainthan Rajesh K. , Brooks Donald E. , So Alan I. , Gleave Martin E. , Burt Helen M.
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

To develop paclitaxel incorporated into unimolecular micelles based on hydrophobically derivatized hyperbranched polyglycerols (dHPGs) for use as mucoadhesive intravesical agents against non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Two different types of dHPGs (HPG‐ C10‐polyethylene glycol (PEG) and polyethyleneimine (PEI)‐C18‐HPG) were synthesized and paclitaxel was loaded into these using a solvent evaporation method. After physicochemical characterization of the resulting nanoparticles, four human bladder cancer cell lines were incubated with various concentrations of paclitaxel incorporated in dHPGs and the results were compared with those of paclitaxel formulated in Cremophor‐EL (Taxol®, Bristol‐Myers‐Squibb). In vivo, nude mice with orthotopic KU7‐luc tumours were intravesically instilled with phosphate buffered saline, Taxol, or paclitaxel/HPG‐C10‐PEG.

RESULTS

dHPGs are mucoadhesive nanoparticles with hydrodynamic radii of <10 nm and incorporation of paclitaxel did not affect their size. The release profiles of paclitaxel from dHPGs were characterized by a rapid‐release phase followed by a slower sustained‐release phase. While the PEI‐C18‐HPG formulation released only ≈40% of the initially incorporated paclitaxel, up to 80% was released from HPG‐C10‐PEG. Moreover, only paclitaxel/HPG‐C10‐PEG was stable in acidic urine. In vitro, all paclitaxel formulations potently decreased bladder cancer proliferation although paclitaxel/HPG‐C10‐PEG was slightly less cytotoxic than standard Taxol. By contrast, in vivo, the mucoadhesive HPG‐C10‐PEG formulation of paclitaxel was significantly more effective in reducing orthotopic tumour growth than Taxol and was well tolerated.

CONCLUSION

Intravesical administration of mucoadhesive nanoparticulate formulations of paclitaxel might be a promising approach for instillation therapy of patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer.
Assessment of voiding function of orthotopic neobladders in elderly patients with long‐term survival
Authors: Takenaka Atsushi , Soga Hideo , Terakawa Tomoaki , Kumano Masafumi , Furukawa Junya , Muramaki Mototsugu , Kurahashi Toshifumi , Miyake Hideaki , Tanaka Kazushi , Yamanaka Nozomu , Fujisawa Masato
Published: March 2009

OBJECTIVE

To compare the voiding status in elderly patients (aged ≥80 years) with that in younger patients undergoing orthotopic neobladder substitution during long‐term survival.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The voiding status was assessed in 111 patients (ileal neobladder in 62, ascending colonic neobladder in 14, sigmoid colonic neobladder in 21 and ileocolonic neobladder in 14) who lived for >5 years after radical cystectomy with an orthotopic neobladder, using a self‐completed questionnaire and uroflowmetry. According to the age at the time of these assessments, patients were divided into two groups (group 1, <80 years, 94; group 2, ≥80 years, 17). The voiding status was compared between the groups.

RESULTS

In all, 78 patients (92%) in group 1 and 16 (94%) in group 2 were capable of spontaneous voiding. In group 1 and 2, respectively, daytime continence was achieved by 67 (74%) and 12 (75%) patients, but night‐time continence was achieved by 54 (60%) and six (38%), although the difference was not statistically significant. In groups 1 and 2, respectively, the median maximum flow rate was 13.3 and 11.7 mL/s and the median postvoid residual urine volume was 19 and 18 mL. The only statistically significant difference was for voiding posture, assessed in men.

CONCLUSIONS

There was no significant difference in voiding status of patients with orthotopic neobladders except for voiding posture between patients aged <80 or carefully selected elderly patients aged ≥80 years during long‐term survival. However, night‐time continence might be clinically worse in the elderly than in the younger group.
Malaria in Rural Nigeria: Implications for the Millennium Development Goals
Authors: Alaba Olufunke A. , Alaba Olumuyiwa B.
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  The paper analyses the incidence of malaria in rural Nigeria and its implication for the country's efforts to meet the targets of various domestic and global development policy blueprints. In recent years, there has been remarkable increase in human and financial commitments to global malaria control, partly due to the need to meet specific and relevant development targets set in the millennium development goals (MDGs). However, these efforts have not translated into a significant decrease in the incidence of the disease and its impact in Nigeria. Using the cost of illness method to analyse the impact of malaria on various attempts at national development, the paper found that substantial resources and domestic output is lost annually to malaria attack in Oyo State. This has serious implications for the achievement of the principles of the National Economic Empowerment and Development Strategies (NEEDS) and the MDG target. It is implied from the results that effective control of malaria is capable of reducing household poverty, inequality, while improving various determinants of welfare and national development.
HIV/AIDS Knowledge and Behaviour: Have Information Campaigns Reduced HIV Infection? The Case of Kenya*
Authors: Frölich Markus , Vazquez‐Alvarez Rosalia
Published: March 2009

Abstract:  AIDS continues to have a devastating effect on developing countries, particularly in sub‐Saharan Africa. The lack of a proven effective vaccine to stop HIV transmission has led to much of public policy putting an emphasis on information campaigns in order to reduce HIV‐prevalence. In this paper we examine the impact of HIV/AIDS‐knowledge from two sides. First, we examine to what extent the campaigns have been successful at inducing the expected behavioural change with regards to HIV‐related attitudes. Second, we examine the impact of HIV/AIDS knowledge on HIV status. The basic policy issue can be expressed as follows: even if individuals have acquired sufficient and necessary information on the basic facts about AIDS, factors such as innate risk attitudes or cultural background could undermine the effects of the campaigns. Using the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (2003) we elicit empirical evidence on the relation between declared HIV/AIDS‐knowledge, behavioural attitudes related to HIV/AIDS situations and the relation between knowledge and observed HIV‐status. Overall, our empirical findings suggest that information campaigns have been effective at equipping the adult population in Kenya with the required knowledge to avoid becoming HIV‐positive. However, when HIV‐status is measured objectively we find that the relation between correctly declared attitudes and actual behaviour is only statistically significant for females who have arrived into sexuality late enough to benefit from such campaigns: it is for these females that the impact of the information campaigns has been to statistically reduce the probability of becoming HIV positive, as intended. In the case of males we find that there is no statistical relation between either knowledge or timing of the information campaigns and a positive HIV status. Nevertheless, another important finding refers to the selection bias induced by males who are sampled randomly but decline to take the HIV test. The consequences of this bias are twofold; first, the estimated policy parameters for males should be interpreted with caution, but more importantly, estimating the population level HIV‐prevalence for Kenyan males based on the DHS implies underestimating the true and unknown prevalence rate. Our analysis controls for individual characteristics, selection bias and endogeneity effects, thus allowing us to make inferences for the full population and with regards to policy implementation.
RISK MEASURES FOR NON‐INTEGRABLE RANDOM VARIABLES
Authors: Delbaen Freddy
Published: March 2009

We show that when a real‐valued risk measure is defined on a solid, rearrangement invariant space of random variables, then necessarily it satisfies a weak compactness, also called continuity from below, property, and the space necessarily consists of integrable random variables. As a result we see that a risk measure defined for, say, Cauchy‐distributed random variable, must take infinite values for some of the random variables.
JUDAISM AND NATURAL LAW
Authors: JACOBS JONATHAN
Published: March 2009

The question of the relation between Judaism and natural law is important both for scholars and for reflective persons with an interest in the grounds of Jewish moral thought. There is a rich history of natural law theorizing that has had considerable influence, and there has been a revival of natural law theorizing in the contemporary period. The topic of the present discussion is of more than historical interest; it is a live question of real, current relevance.
Maternal age at childbirth and offspring disruptive behaviors: testing the causal hypothesis
Authors: D’Onofrio Brian M. , Goodnight Jackson A. , Van Hulle Carol A. , Rodgers Joseph Lee , Rathouz Paul J. , Waldman Irwin D. , Lahey Benjamin B.
Published: March 2009

Background:  Recent studies suggest that the association between maternal age at childbearing (MAC) and children’s disruptive behaviors is the result of family factors that are confounded with both variables, rather than a casual effect of environmental factors specifically related to MAC. These studies, however, relied on restricted samples and did not use the strongest approach to test causal influences.

Methods:  Using data on 9,171 4–9‐year‐old and 6,592 10–13‐year‐old offspring of women from a nationally representative sample of US households, we conducted sibling‐comparison analyses. The analyses ruled out all genetic factors that could confound the association, as well as all environmental confounds that differ between unrelated nuclear families, providing a strong test of the causal hypothesis that the environments of children born at different maternal ages influence mother‐ and self‐reported disruptive behaviors.

Results:  When these genetic and environmental confounds were ruled out as alternative explanations, the relation between environments within nuclear families specifically associated with MAC and disruptive behaviors was robust, with the association being stronger for second‐ and third‐born children.

Conclusions:  Environmental factors specifically associated with early MAC within nuclear families account for increased risk of offspring disruptive behaviors, especially in later‐born children.
Electrophysiological signs of supplementary‐motor‐area deficits in high‐functioning autism but not Asperger syndrome: an examination of internally cued movement‐related potentials
Authors: ENTICOTT PETER G , BRADSHAW JOHN L , IANSEK ROBERT , TONGE BRUCE J , RINEHART NICOLE J
Published: March 2009

Aims  Motor dysfunction is common to both autism and Asperger syndrome, but the underlying neurophysiological impairments are unclear. Neurophysiological examinations of motor dysfunction can provide information about likely sites of functional impairment and can contribute to the debate about whether autism and Asperger syndrome are variants of the same disorder or fundamentally distinct neurodevelopmental conditions. We investigated the neurophysiology of internally determined motor activity in autism and Asperger syndrome via examination of movement‐related potentials (MRPs).

Method  We used electroencephalography to investigate MRPs, via an internally cued movement paradigm, in the following three groups: (1) individuals with high‐functioning autism (14 males, one female; mean age 13y 1mo, SD 4y 2mo, range 7y 8mo to 20y 9mo; mean Full‐scale IQ 93.40, SD 20.72); (2) individuals with Asperger syndrome (10 males, two females; mean age 13y 7mo, SD 3y 9mo, range 8y 11mo to 20y 4mo; mean Full‐scale IQ 103.25, SD 19.37), and (3) a healthy control group (13 males, seven females; mean age 14y 0mo, SD 3y 11mo; range 8y 4mo to 21y 0mo; mean Full‐scale IQ 114.25, SD 11.29).

Results  Abnormal MRPs can reflect disruption of motor‐related neural networks involving the basal ganglia, thalamus, and supplementary motor area. There was evidence for abnormal MRPs in autism (e.g. increased post‐movement cortical activity, abnormal peak time) but not in Asperger syndrome.

Interpretation  The results support basal ganglia, thalamus, and supplementary motor area involvement as a likely source of motor dysfunction in autism, and provide further evidence for the neurobiological separateness of autism and Asperger syndrome.
The backbone of oral glucose‐lowering therapy: time for a paradigm shift?
Authors: Seufert Jochen
Published: March 2009

The complex array of metabolic abnormalities associated with type 2 diabetes provides a number of new targets for therapeutic intervention. Although the established oral glucose‐lowering therapies, metformin and the sulfonylureas, continue to provide the backbone of therapeutic approaches, the thiazolidinediones (TZDs) also play an important role. Further, a new class of oral agents, the dipeptidyl peptidase‐IV (DPP‐IV) inhibitors, has recently become available with apparent utility in decreasing postprandial glucose excursions. This review examines how the TZDs and the DPP‐IV inhibitors might integrate into current treatment strategies, considering not only glycemic goals, but also longer‐term benefits such as durability of glycemic control, effect on metabolic parameters and cardiovascular outcomes. A practical approach is taken, reflecting potential clinical situations in which therapeutic intervention is required.
Social conflict and the neoliberal city: a case of Hindu–Muslim violence in India
Authors: Chatterjee Ipsita
Published: March 2009

In an era of globalisation the ‘global’ is very much implicated in the ‘local’. Local events like conflicts therefore need to be understood in the context of the dynamics of globalisation. This paper argues that neoliberal globalisation undergoes a thorough grounding in accordance with the pre‐existing socio‐cultural and economic specificities of places, which impact upon inter‐community alienation and conflict. Using four case studies from a Hindu–Muslim conflict in a neoliberalising city, Ahmedabad, India, this paper illustrates how open market policies are implicated in local industrial restructuring and urban renewal that simultaneously utilise place‐specific ethnocentrism to exclude and fragment the poor.
Alcohol Consumption, Alcohol Outlets, and the Risk of Being Assaulted With a Gun
Authors: Branas Charles C. , Elliott Michael R. , Richmond Therese S. , Culhane Dennis P. , Wiebe Douglas J.
Published: March 2009

Background:  We conducted a population‐based case–control study to better delineate the relationship between individual alcohol consumption, alcohol outlets in the surrounding environment, and being assaulted with a gun.

Methods:  An incidence density sampled case–control study was conducted in the entire city of Philadelphia from 2003 to 2006. We enrolled 677 cases that had been shot in an assault and 684 population‐based controls. The relationships between 2 independent variables of interest, alcohol consumption and alcohol outlet availability, and the outcome of being assaulted with a gun were analyzed. Conditional logistic regression was used to adjust for numerous confounding variables.

Results:  After adjustment, heavy drinkers were 2.67 times as likely to be shot in an assault when compared with nondrinkers (p < 0.10) while light drinkers were not at significantly greater risk of being shot in an assault when compared with nondrinkers. Regression‐adjusted analyses also demonstrated that being in an area of high off‐premise alcohol outlet availability significantly increased the risk of being shot in an assault by 2.00 times (p < 0.05). Being in an area of high on‐premise alcohol outlet availability did not significantly change this risk. Heavy drinkers in areas of high off‐premise alcohol outlet availability were 9.34 times (p < 0.05) as likely to be shot in an assault.

Conclusions:  This study finds that the gun assault risk to individuals who are near off‐premise alcohol outlets is about the same as or statistically greater than the risk they incur from heavy drinking. The combination of heavy drinking and being near off‐premise outlets resulted in greater risk than either factor alone. By comparison, light drinking and being near on‐premise alcohol outlets were not associated with increased risks for gun assault. Cities should consider addressing alcohol‐related factors, especially off‐premise outlets, as highly modifiable and politically feasible approaches to reducing gun violence.
Association of Markers in the 3′ Region of the GluR5 Kainate Receptor Subunit Gene to Alcohol Dependence
Authors: Kranzler Henry R. , Gelernter Joel , Anton Raymond F. , Arias Albert J. , Herman Aryeh , Zhao Hongyu , Burian Linda , Covault Jonathan
Published: March 2009

Background:  Glutamate neurotransmission plays an important role in a variety of alcohol‐related phenomena, including alcohol self‐administration by both animals and humans. Because the risk for alcohol dependence (AD) is genetically influenced, genes encoding glutamate receptors are candidates to contribute to the risk for AD. We examined the role of variation in the 3′ region of GRIK1, the gene that encodes the GluR5 receptor subunit of the kainic acid glutamate receptor, on risk for AD. We focused specifically on this gene because topiramate, a glutamate modulator that binds to the GluR5 subunit, has shown robust efficacy in the treatment of AD.

Methods:  We genotyped 7 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the 3′‐half of GRIK1, which includes 3 differentially spliced exons, in a sample of EA control subjects (n = 507) and subjects with AD (n = 1,057).

Results:  We found nominally significant evidence of association to AD for 3 SNPs (rs2832407 in intron 9, rs2186305 in intron 17, and rs2832387 in the 3′UTR). Empirical p‐value estimation revealed that only rs2832407 was significantly associated to phenotype (p = 0.043).

Discussion:  These findings provide support for the hypothesis that variation in the 3′ portion of the gene encoding the GluR5 kainate receptor subunit contributes to the risk for AD. Further research is needed to ascertain whether this SNP is itself functional or whether the association reflects linkage disequilibrium with functional variation elsewhere in the gene and whether this SNP moderates topiramate’s effects in the treatment of AD.
Expanding the Utility of the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES) and Initial Psychometric Support for the Brief‐BAES (B‐BAES)
Authors: Rueger Sandra Y. , McNamara Patrick J. , King Andrea C.
Published: March 2009

Background:  The utility of one of the most widely used subjective alcohol assessment tools, the Biphasic Alcohol Effects Scale (BAES) has been somewhat limited based on lack of psychometric studies in large and diverse samples, a range of alcohol doses, the length of the measure, and the original instructional set which precluded baseline measurement and disclosed to subjects that they received alcohol.

Methods:  The current study investigated the factor structure of the BAES with a modified instructional set at pre‐drink baseline and after consumption of various doses of alcohol, in a sample of 190 men and women, heavy and light social drinkers. This study tested the psychometric properties of a brief version of the BAES (Brief‐BAES or B‐BAES).

Results:  Results demonstrated robust support of the stimulant and sedative constructs across all conditions, and demonstrated strong psychometric support for the 6‐item B‐BAES.

Discussion:  This is the first comprehensive study to expand the utility of the BAES by instructional set, baseline measurement, at various alcohol doses, and by drinking history and sex. In addition, the introduction of the B‐BAES may further increase the utility of this scale, particularly in paradigms with repeated measurement or time constraints.
Unbundling R&D and Manufacturing: Postindustrial Myth or Economic Reality?
Authors: Ketokivi Mikko , Ali‐Yrkkö Jyrki
Published: March 2009

Understanding determinants of business location decisions is important from the point of view of economic policy. While the determinants of manufacturing and R&D location have been extensively covered in the literature, in this article we examine a largely neglected question: Under what conditions do manufacturing and R&D have to be physically colocated, that is, when is unbundling the two impossible? In a sample of 241 Finnish industrial firms, we find that unbundling R&D and manufacturing is possible for some companies but indeed a postindustrial myth of sorts for many others. The need for colocation correlates with knowledge intensity of activities: product complexity, process complexity, and industry rate of change, but interestingly enough, not with the size of the firm's R&D budget.
The Japanese Preschool's Pedagogy of Feeling: Cultural Strategies for Supporting Young Children's Emotional Development
Authors: Hayashi Akiko , Karasawa Mayumi , Tobin Joseph
Published: March 2009

Abstract
Among the lessons to be learned in Japanese preschool is how to experience, present, and respond to feelings. We suggest that the feeling most emphasized in Japanese preschools is sabishiisa (loneliness). Japanese preschool educators draw attention to feelings of sabishiisa, or loneliness, to promote a desire in young children for social connection. This social connection is built on a foundation of amae (expressions of dependency needs) and omoiyari (responding empathically to expressions of amae). Using examples from everyday life in a Japanese preschool, we argue that the Japanese preschool's pedagogy of feeling emphasizes learning to respond empathetically to loneliness and other expressions of need. Our analysis suggests that sabishiisa, amae, and omoiyari (loneliness, dependence, and empathy) form a triad of emotional exchange, which, although not unique to Japan or to the Japanese preschool, have a particular cultural patterning and salience in Japan and in the Japanese approach to the socialization of emotions in early childhood. [emotion, feeling, Japan, preschool, amae]
The effects of experimentally manipulated yolk androgens on growth and immune function of male and female nestling collared flycatchersFicedula albicollis
Authors: Pitala Natalia , Ruuskanen Suvi , Laaksonen Toni , Doligez Blandine , Tschirren Barbara , Gustafsson Lars
Published: March 2009

Hormone‐mediated maternal effects may be an important mechanism for adjusting offspring phenotype to particular requirements of the environment. We manipulated the levels of testosterone and androstenedione in the yolk of collared flycatcherFicedula albicolliseggs to investigate the effects of pre‐natal exposure to androgens on growth and immune function. Androgen treatment tended to reduce the growth of males, and enhance the growth of females, as indicated by significant interaction between sex and androgen treatment. Cellular immune function was not affected by androgen treatment or sex. Survival of nestlings until fledging was not related to androgen treatment. Our results indicate that in the collared flycatcher yolk androgens do not involve clear overall benefits during the nestling stage, and that growth‐enhancing effects of increased yolk androgen levels on female nestlings are counterbalanced by detrimental effects on male nestlings.