bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Finite-scale equations for compressible fluid flow
Authors: Margolin L.G.
Published: June 2009

Finite-scale equations (FSE) describe the evolution of finite volumes of fluid over time. We discuss the FSE for a one-dimensional compressible fluid, whose every point is governed by the Navier–Stokes equations. The FSE contain new momentum and internal energy transport terms. These are similar to terms added in numerical simulation for high-speed flows (e.g. artificial viscosity) and for turbulent flows (e.g. subgrid scale models). These similarities suggest that the FSE may provide new insight as a basis for computational fluid dynamics. Our analysis of the FS continuity equation leads to a physical interpretation of the new transport terms, and indicates the need to carefully distinguish between volume-averaged and mass-averaged velocities in numerical simulation. We make preliminary connections to the other recent work reformulating Navier–Stokes equations.
Large eddy simulation using high-resolution and high-order methods
Authors: Drikakis D. , Hahn M. , Mosedale A. , Thornber B.
Published: June 2009

Restrictions on computing power make direct numerical simulation too expensive for complex flows; thus, the development of accurate large eddy simulation (LES) methods, which are industrially applicable and efficient, is required. This paper reviews recent findings about the leading order dissipation rate associated with high-resolution methods and improvements to the standard schemes for use in highly turbulent flows. Results from implicit LES are presented for a broad range of flows and numerical schemes, ranging from the second-order monotone upstream-centered schemes for conservation laws to very high-order (up to ninth-order) weighted essentially non-oscillatory schemes.
Applied large eddy simulation
Authors: Tucker Paul G. , Lardeau Sylvain
Published: June 2009

Large eddy simulation (LES) is now seen more and more as a viable alternative to current industrial practice, usually based on problem-specific Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) methods. Access to detailed flow physics is attractive to industry, especially in an environment in which computer modelling is bound to play an ever increasing role. However, the improvement in accuracy and flow detail has substantial cost. This has so far prevented wider industrial use of LES. The purpose of the applied LES discussion meeting was to address questions regarding what is achievable and what is not, given the current technology and knowledge, for an industrial practitioner who is interested in using LES. The use of LES was explored in an application-centred context between diverse fields. The general flow-governing equation form was explored along with various LES models. The errors occurring in LES were analysed. Also, the hybridization of RANS and LES was considered. The importance of modelling relative to boundary conditions, problem definition and other more mundane aspects were examined. It was to an extent concluded that for LES to make most rapid industrial impact, pragmatic hybrid use of LES, implicit LES and RANS elements will probably be needed. Added to this further, highly industrial sector model parametrizations will be required with clear thought on the key target design parameter(s). The combination of good numerical modelling expertise, a sound understanding of turbulence, along with artistry, pragmatism and the use of recent developments in computer science should dramatically add impetus to the industrial uptake of LES. In the light of the numerous technical challenges that remain it appears that for some time to come LES will have echoes of the high levels of technical knowledge required for safe use of RANS but with much greater fidelity.
Environmental implications of plastic debris in marine settings—entanglement, ingestion, smothering, hangers-on, hitch-hiking and alien invasions
Authors: Gregory Murray R.
Published: June 2009

Over the past five or six decades, contamination and pollution of the world’s enclosed seas, coastal waters and the wider open oceans by plastics and other synthetic, non-biodegradable materials (generally known as ‘marine debris’) has been an ever-increasing phenomenon. The sources of these polluting materials are both land- and marine-based, their origins may be local or distant, and the environmental consequences are many and varied. The more widely recognized problems are typically associated with entanglement, ingestion, suffocation and general debilitation, and are often related to stranding events and public perception. Among the less frequently recognized and recorded problems are global hazards to shipping, fisheries and other maritime activities. Today, there are rapidly developing research interests in the biota attracted to freely floating (i.e. pelagic) marine debris, commonly known as ‘hangers-on and hitch-hikers’ as well as material sinking to the sea floor despite being buoyant. Dispersal of aggressive alien and invasive species by these mechanisms leads one to reflect on the possibilities that ensuing invasions could endanger sensitive, or at-risk coastal environments (both marine and terrestrial) far from their native habitats.
Phthalates and other additives in plastics: human exposure and associated health outcomes
Authors: Meeker John D. , Sathyanarayana Sheela , Swan Shanna H.
Published: June 2009

Concern exists over whether additives in plastics to which most people are exposed, such as phthalates, bisphenol A or polybrominated diphenyl ethers, may cause harm to human health by altering endocrine function or through other biological mechanisms. Human data are limited compared with the large body of experimental evidence documenting reproductive or developmental toxicity in relation to these compounds. Here, we discuss the current state of human evidence, as well as future research trends and needs.

Because exposure assessment is often a major weakness in epidemiological studies, and
in utero
exposures to reproductive or developmental toxicants are important, we also provide original data on maternal exposure to phthalates during and after pregnancy (
n
= 242). Phthalate metabolite concentrations in urine showed weak correlations between pre- and post-natal samples, though the strength of the relationship increased when duration between the two samples decreased. Phthalate metabolite levels also tended to be higher in post-natal samples.

In conclusion, there is a great need for more human studies of adverse health effects associated with plastic additives. Recent advances in the measurement of exposure biomarkers hold much promise in improving the epidemiological data, but their utility must be understood to facilitate appropriate study design.
Components of plastic: experimental studies in animals and relevance for human health
Authors: Talsness Chris E. , Andrade Anderson J. M. , Kuriyama Sergio N. , Taylor Julia A. , vom Saal Frederick S.
Published: June 2009

Components used in plastics, such as phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDE) and tetrabromobisphenol A (TBBPA), are detected in humans. In addition to their utility in plastics, an inadvertent characteristic of these chemicals is the ability to alter the endocrine system. Phthalates function as anti-androgens while the main action attributed to BPA is oestrogen-like activity. PBDE and TBBPA have been shown to disrupt thyroid hormone homeostasis while PBDEs also exhibit anti-androgen action. Experimental investigations in animals indicate a wide variety of effects associated with exposure to these compounds, causing concern regarding potential risk to human health. For example, the spectrum of effects following perinatal exposure of male rats to phthalates has remarkable similarities to the testicular dysgenesis syndrome in humans. Concentrations of BPA in the foetal mouse within the range of unconjugated BPA levels observed in human foetal blood have produced effects in animal experiments. Finally, thyroid hormones are essential for normal neurological development and reproductive function. Human body burdens of these chemicals are detected with high prevalence, and concentrations in young children, a group particularly sensitive to exogenous insults, are typically higher, indicating the need to decrease exposure to these compounds.
Structuring policy problems for plastics, the environment and human health: reflections from the UK
Authors: Shaxson Louise
Published: June 2009

How can we strengthen the science–policy interface for plastics, the environment and human health? In a complex policy area with multiple stakeholders, it is important to clarify the nature of the particular plastics-related issue before trying to understand how to reconcile the supply and demand for evidence in policy. This article proposes a simple problem typology to assess the fundamental characteristics of a policy issue and thus identify appropriate processes for science–policy interactions. This is illustrated with two case studies from one UK Government Department, showing how policy and science meet over the environmental problems of plastics waste in the marine environment and on land. A problem-structuring methodology helps us understand why some policy issues can be addressed through relatively linear flows of science from experts to policymakers but why others demand a more reflexive approach to brokering the knowledge between science and policy. Suggestions are given at the end of the article for practical actions that can be taken on both sides.
Biodegradable and compostable alternatives to conventional plastics
Authors: Song J. H. , Murphy R. J. , Narayan R. , Davies G. B. H.
Published: June 2009

Packaging waste forms a significant part of municipal solid waste and has caused increasing environmental concerns, resulting in a strengthening of various regulations aimed at reducing the amounts generated. Among other materials, a wide range of oil-based polymers is currently used in packaging applications. These are virtually all non-biodegradable, and some are difficult to recycle or reuse due to being complex composites having varying levels of contamination. Recently, significant progress has been made in the development of biodegradable plastics, largely from renewable natural resources, to produce biodegradable materials with similar functionality to that of oil-based polymers. The expansion in these bio-based materials has several potential benefits for greenhouse gas balances and other environmental impacts over whole life cycles and in the use of renewable, rather than finite resources. It is intended that use of biodegradable materials will contribute to sustainability and reduction in the environmental impact associated with disposal of oil-based polymers.

The diversity of biodegradable materials and their varying properties makes it difficult to make simple, generic assessments such as biodegradable products are all ‘good’ or petrochemical-based products are all ‘bad’. This paper discusses the potential impacts of biodegradable packaging materials and their waste management, particularly via composting. It presents the key issues that inform judgements of the benefits these materials have in relation to conventional, petrochemical-based counterparts. Specific examples are given from new research on biodegradability in simulated ‘home’ composting systems. It is the view of the authors that biodegradable packaging materials are most suitable for single-use disposable applications where the post-consumer waste can be locally composted.
Plastics, the environment and human health: current consensus and future trends
Authors: Thompson Richard C. , Moore Charles J. , vom Saal Frederick S. , Swan Shanna H.
Published: June 2009

Plastics have transformed everyday life; usage is increasing and annual production is likely to exceed 300 million tonnes by 2010. In this concluding paper to the Theme Issue on Plastics, the Environment and Human Health, we synthesize current understanding of the benefits and concerns surrounding the use of plastics and look to future priorities, challenges and opportunities. It is evident that plastics bring many societal benefits and offer future technological and medical advances. However, concerns about usage and disposal are diverse and include accumulation of waste in landfills and in natural habitats, physical problems for wildlife resulting from ingestion or entanglement in plastic, the leaching of chemicals from plastic products and the potential for plastics to transfer chemicals to wildlife and humans. However, perhaps the most important overriding concern, which is implicit throughout this volume, is that our current usage is not sustainable. Around 4 per cent of world oil production is used as a feedstock to make plastics and a similar amount is used as energy in the process. Yet over a third of current production is used to make items of packaging, which are then rapidly discarded. Given our declining reserves of fossil fuels, and finite capacity for disposal of waste to landfill, this linear use of hydrocarbons, via packaging and other short-lived applications of plastic, is simply not sustainable. There are solutions, including material reduction, design for end-of-life recyclability, increased recycling capacity, development of bio-based feedstocks, strategies to reduce littering, the application of green chemistry life-cycle analyses and revised risk assessment approaches. Such measures will be most effective through the combined actions of the public, industry, scientists and policymakers. There is some urgency, as the quantity of plastics produced in the first 10 years of the current century is likely to approach the quantity produced in the entire century that preceded.
Anthropometric Indices of Obesity and the Prediction of Cardiovascular Risk Factors in an Iranian Population
Authors: Azimi–Nezhad Mohsen , Ghayour–Mobarhan Majid , Safarian Mohammad , Esmailee Habibollah , Parizadeh Seyed Mohammad Reza , Rajabi-Moghadam Maryam , Gholami Arezoo , Reza Oladi Mohammad , Ferns Gordon A.
Published: June 2009

The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome are increasing globally. The present study was conducted in an attempt to define optimal cutoff values for several anthropometric variables in an Iranian population, as these may vary with ethnicity. Iranian subjects (2483 men and 2445 women), aged 15–65 years, were recruited using a cluster-stratified sampling method from rural and urban areas within the Khorasan province. Receiver operating characteristics (ROC) analysis was used to define optimal anthropometric cutoff values. The prevalence of hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome were 28, 5.5, 67, and 39.9%, respectively. The gender-specific cutoff values for waist:height ratio to predict hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome among men were 0.52 (sensitivity = 66%; specificity = 66%), 0.54 (sensitivity = 65%; specificity = 65%), 0.50 (sensitivity = 58%; specificity = 57%), and 0.53 (sensitivity = 73%; specificity = 70%), and for women were 0.59 (sensitivity = 61%; specificity = 61%), 0.61 (sensitivity = 64%; specificity = 64%), 0.57 (sensitivity = 61%; specificity = 61%), and 0.59 (sensitivity = 77%; specificity = 77%) (p< 0.05). Significant correlations were found between waist:height ratio and hypertension, diabetes mellitus, dyslipidemia, and metabolic syndrome, particularly in women. Waist circumference cutoffs were higher for women than men for hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and dyslipidemia.
Congenital Chylothorax
Authors: Lahmiti Saad , Elhoudzi Jamila , Baki Salwa , Aboussad Abdelmounaim
Published: June 2009

Although pleural effusion is a rare cause of respiratory distress in newborns, being familiar with this disease is very important because of the generally favorable prognosis when the diagnosis is done early and therapy is prompt. We report a case of a full-term baby diagnosed with respiratory distress after 1 week of life. An X-ray of his chest showed a left pleural effusion. Moreover, a thoracentesis combined with a biochemical study of the pleural fluid confirmed the diagnosis of chylothorax. In our case, the conservative therapy was successful. The baby was followed up for a period of 6 months, with no evidence of recurrence. We have concluded, therefore, that conservative management should be the first line of treatment in chylothorax cases. If it does not work, a surgical approach might be considered.
The Par3/aPKC interaction is essential for end bud remodeling and progenitor differentiation during mammary gland morphogenesis
Authors: McCaffrey Luke Martin , Macara Ian G.
Published: June 2009

Mammalian polarity proteins have been studied predominantly in cell culture systems, and little is known about their functions in vivo. To address this issue, we used a shRNA lentiviral system to manipulate gene expression in mouse mammary stem/progenitor cells. Transplantation of Par3-depleted stem/progenitor cells into the mammary fat pad severely disrupted mammary development, and glands were characterized by ductal hyperplasia, luminal filling, and highly disorganized end bud structures that were unable to remodel into normal ductal structures. Unexpectedly, Par3-depleted mammary glands also had an expanded progenitor population. We identified a novel function for the atypical protein kinase C (aPKC)-binding domain of Par3 in restricting Par3 and aPKC to the apical region in mammary epithelia in vivo, and found that mammary morphogenesis is dependent on the ability of Par3 to directly bind aPKC. These results reveal a new function for Par3 in the regulation of progenitor differentiation and epithelial morphogenesis in vivo and demonstrate for the first time an essential requirement for the Par3–aPKC interaction.
Zic-associated holoprosencephaly: zebrafish Zic1 controls midline formation and forebrain patterning by regulating Nodal, Hedgehog, and retinoic acid signaling
Authors: Maurus Daniel , Harris William A.
Published: June 2009

Holoprosencephaly (HPE) is the most frequently observed human embryonic forebrain defect. Recent evidence indicates that the two major forms of HPE, classic HPE and midline interhemispheric (MIH) HPE, are elicited by two different mechanisms. The only gene known to be associated with both forms of HPE is Zic2. We used the zebrafish Danio rerio as a model system to study Zic knockdown during midline formation by looking at the close homolog Zic1, which is expressed in an overlapping fashion with Zic2. Zic1 knockdown in zebrafish leads to a strong midline defect including partial cyclopia due to attenuated Nodal and Hedgehog signaling in the anterior ventral diencephalon. Strikingly, we were able to show that Zic1 is also required for maintaining early forebrain expression of the retinoic acid (RA)-degrading enzyme cyp26a1. Zic1 LOF leads to increased RA levels in the forebrain, subsequent ventralization of the optic vesicle and down-regulation of genes involved in dorsal BMP signaling. Repression of BMP signaling in dorsal forebrain has been implicated in causing MIH HPE. This work provides a mechanistical explanation at the molecular level of why Zic factors are associated with both major forms of HPE.
Inter-Strip Interpolation Measurements in a High-Purity Germanium Double-Sided Strip Detector
Authors: Hayward Jason P. , Wehe David K.
Published: June 2009

One fundamental design issue in the HPGe double-sided strip detector is the gap between strips, which makes up 1/6 of the 3 mm strip pitch in the UM HPGe strip detector. When an interaction occurs in the gap between strips, charge-carriers from the resulting charge cloud may be split between adjacent strips. Additionally, up to 6% of the carriers may be lost. Furthermore, use of the signals obtained for interactions that occur in gaps is complicated by their sensitivity to the change in charge cloud geometries and the difficulty of distinguishing single interactions from multiple close interactions.
Change of specific T cells in an emerging neonatal infectious disease induced by a bacterial superantigen
Authors: Takahashi Naoto , Kato Hidehito , Imanishi Ken’ichi , Ohki Takehiro , Uehara Ritei , Momoi Mariko Y. , Nishida Hiroshi , Uchiyama Takehiko
Published: June 2009

A new epidemic, NTED, has recently occurred in Japan. The cause of NTED is a bacterial superantigen, TSST‐1. The aim of the present study was to analyze the change in Vβ2+ T cells reactive to TSST‐1 in NTED in order to establish T‐cell‐targeted diagnostic criteria for NTED. Blood samples from 75 patients with clinically diagnosed NTED were collected from 13 neonatal intensive care units throughout Japan. We investigated the percentages of Vβ2+, Vβ3+ and Vβ12+ T cells and their CD45RO expressions in the samples using flow cytometry. In 18 of the 75 patients, we conducted multiple examinations of the T cells and monitored serial changes. The Vβ2+ T‐cell population rapidly changed over three phases of the disease. Whereas the percentage of Vβ2+ T cells was widely distributed over the entire control range, CD45RO expression on Vβ2+ T cells in CD4+ in all 75 patients was consistently higher than the control range. Patients cannot necessarily be diagnosed as having NTED based on expansion of Vβ2+ T cells alone in the early acute phase. Instead, CD45RO expression on specific Vβ2+ cells is a potential diagnostic marker for a rapid diagnosis of NTED. We present three diagnostic categories of NTED. Fifty patients (66.7%) were included in the category ‘definitive NTED’. It is important to demonstrate an increase of Vβ2+ T cells in the following phase in cases of ‘probable NTED’ or ‘possible NTED’.
The use of exclusive enteral nutrition for induction of remission in children with Crohn’s disease demonstrates that disease phenotype does not influence clinical remission
Authors: BUCHANAN E. , GAUNT W. W. , CARDIGAN T. , GARRICK V. , MCGROGAN P. , RUSSELL R. K.
Published: June 2009

Background  Exclusive enteral nutrition (EEN) achieves variable remission rates in patients with Crohn’s disease (CD).

Aim  To describe our experience of treating CD with an 8‐week course of primary EEN and to study factors affecting treatment outcome.

Methods  All CD patients treated with EEN in our centre between 2004 and 2007 were included in the study. Remission was determined by a combination of clinical parameters. Disease phenotype was assigned using published classifications. Inflammatory markers and anthropometry (Z‐scores) were calculated before and after treatment.

Results  A total of 114 children were treated (four were excluded). Median age at diagnosis was 11.6 years. Fifty‐seven (51.8%) were fed orally whilst 53 (48.2%) were fed by tube. Eighty‐eight (80%) achieved remission with consequent reductions in erythrocyte sedimentation rate and C‐reactive protein (P < 0.001). Patients in remission had comparative improvements in weight (−1.04 cf. −0.40) and BMI Z‐scores (−0.98 cf. −0.03) by the end of treatment (P < 0.001). Individuals with isolated terminal ileal disease (n = 4) had lower remission rates than other locations (P = 0.02). No other significant differences in remission rates for any other disease locations were found.

Conclusions  Exclusive enteral nutrition induces clinical remission, normalization of inflammatory markers and improves weight/BMI Z‐scores in most patients. This study demonstrates that disease phenotype should not influence clinicians when commencing patients on EEN.
Clinical trial: prophylactic intravenous alanyl‐glutamine reduces the severity of gastrointestinal toxicity induced by chemotherapy – a randomized crossover study
Authors: LI Y. , PING X. , YU B. , LIU F. , NI X. , LI J.
Published: June 2009

Background  Glutamine has been shown in numerous studies to reduce intestinal permeability which can be increased by chemotherapy. However, there have been few reports that conduct on its clinical effect on gastrointestinal toxicity.

Aim  To examine whether prophylactic intravenous alanyl‐glutamine dipeptide can ameliorate clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal toxicity induced by chemotherapy.

Methods  Forty‐four patients with gastric or colorectal cancer developing WHO side‐effect grading system of grade 2 or higher were randomized to either control group (n = 22) or Gln group (n = 22) during next cycle of chemotherapy. Patients were crossed over to the alternate treatment during chemotherapy cycle 2. In the control group, the patients received the same chemotherapy regimens as screening cycle and in the Gln group, the patients received chemotherapy and alanyl‐glutamine. Prophylactic intravenous 20 g of alanyl‐glutamine dipeptide was given for 5 days.

Results  Compared with the control group, the plasma glutamine level in the Gln group was significantly higher and the plasma endotoxin level was significantly lower. The scores of nausea/vomiting and diarrhoea decreased significantly.

Conclusion  Prophylactic intravenous alanyl‐glutamine is effective in preventing intestinal permeability disruption induced by chemotherapy and clinical manifestations of gastrointestinal toxicity.
Polymorphism of the ovine β3‐adrenergic receptor gene (ADRB3) and its association with wool mean staple strength and yield
Authors: Forrest R. H. , Itenge‐Mweza T. O. , McKenzie G. W. , Zhou H. , Frampton C. M. , Hickford J. G. H.
Published: June 2009

We investigated the possibility that variation in ovine ADRB3 is associated with various wool traits, in particular mean staple strength (MSS). Polymerase chain reaction‐single strand conformational polymorphism analysis of part of the ADRB3 intron was used to genotype 695 Merino lambs born on three farms in the South Island of New Zealand and which were shorn as 2‐tooths. For each fleece, MSS, mean fibre diameter, mean staple length and yield were measured. The results from mixed‐effects models and half‐sib analyses suggest that ADRB3 alleles A and D have a negative impact on some wool traits, whereas ADRB3 alleles C and E appear to have a positive impact, with allele C potentially having a greater impact than allele E on MSS. This variation in the ADRB3 may assist in the genetic selection for increased MSS and yield in Merino sheep.
Novel beta‐spectrin mutations in hereditary spherocytosis associated with decreased levels of mRNA
Authors: Maciąg Monika , Płochocka Danuta , Adamowicz‐Salach Anna , Burzyńska Beata
Published: June 2009

Hereditary spherocytosis (HS) is one of the most frequent and heterogeneous inherited haemolytic anaemias. It is associated with abnormalities of several erythrocyte membrane proteins. We investigated relative mRNA quantification of red blood cell membrane protein genes using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) in order to better characterize HS cases and to select genes to search for mutations in patients with spherocytosis. qPCR experiments indicated that the spectrin β gene (SPTB) could be involved in anaemia pathogenesis. DNA analysis of SPTB in the HS subjects with decreased SPTB mRNA levels revealed the presence of five previously undescribed mutations: R1756X, 781delT and IVS22nt‐4G>A, 1502insA and IVS20nt‐2A>G.
Advances in individual prediction of methotrexate toxicity: a review
Authors: Schmiegelow Kjeld
Published: June 2009

As the cure rates for haematological malignancies have improved, the exploration of the balance between efficacy and side effects has become a major research target. The antifolate methotrexate is widely used in the treatment of acute lymphoblastic leukaemia, non‐Hodgkin lymphoma, and osteosarcoma. Even when given identical methotrexate doses, patients vary significantly in their response and pattern of toxicities. This diversity can, to some extent, be linked to sequence variations in genes involved in drug absorption, metabolism, excretion, cellular transport, and effector targets or target pathways. In the coming years pharmacogenomics is expected to change our approaches to individualised therapy with methotrexate. However, genetic polymorphisms affect the pharmacokinetics and dynamics of all the drugs a patient receive as well as the normal tissues tolerance to a given drug exposure. Thus, although high‐throughput techniques will allow mapping of tens of thousands of genetic polymorphisms in one run, it will be a major challenge to dissect out which of these have the strongest impact on efficacy and toxicity and hence should be the targets for intervention. This paper discusses the pharmacology of methotrexate and reviews studies on haematological malignancies that have attempted to predict the risk of toxicity by specific clinical or genetic features.
Changing the cultural story in child protection: learning from the insider's experience
Authors: Gibbs Judith
Published: June 2009

This paper argues that child protection organizations intent upon tackling low retention rates and enhancing the services they offer to children and families must pay greater attention to the emotional life of the organization and to enabling workers to manage the intrusiveness of the work. Findings from in‐depth qualitative interviews with child protection workers and supervisors are reported in the form of a story about the insider's experience of the organization. The consequences of working in an organizational culture that denies opportunities for workers to understand and manage the emotional toll of the work are explored. While reporting on research and work undertaken with Australian child protection workers between 1997 and 2002, the view is expressed that these ideas have current relevance to many organizations in the health and welfare field whose core business involves workers coming into contact with individuals in complex, uncertain and ambiguous situations. The paper looks at what needs to change about organizational structures such as supervision to promote learning within a more healthy organizational culture. A clear message from senior managers and politicians to workers that the organization endorses the open expression of feelings, doubts and uncertainties is pivotal.
Intrinsic asthma: not so different from allergic asthma but driven by superantigens?
Authors: Barnes P. J.
Published: June 2009

The mechanisms of intrinsic or non‐allergic asthma remain uncertain as allergens have no obvious role in driving the inflammatory process in the airways. However, IgE synthesis occurs in the airways, despite negative skin prick tests and serum‐specific IgE. Furthermore, the inflammatory process in the airways is very similar between allergic and non‐allergic asthma, with increased T‐helper type 2 (Th2) cells, mast cell activation and infiltration of eosinophils. This pattern of inflammation is associated with a similar expression of inflammatory mediators, including Th2 cytokines and eosinophilotactic chemokines. There is increasing evidence that microbial superantigens, particularly Staphylococcal enterotoxins are important in amplifying inflammation in atopic dermatitis and chronic rhinosinusitis, in atopic and non‐atopic patients. Superantigens may also be important in intrinsic asthma as airway epithelial cells may be colonized by Staphylococci and other superantigen‐producing microbes. Superantigens produced locally in the airways may lead to class switching of local B cells, resulting in polyclonal IgE production in the airways and also specific IgE against the superantigen (which functions as a ‘superallergen’). This leads to sensitization of mast cells, which can be activated by the usual asthma triggers, such as exercise. Superantigens also cause clonal expansion of T cells, resulting in increased Th2 cells and CD8+ cells, while suppressing regulatory T cells. Superantigens may also reduce responsiveness to corticosteroids, resulting in more severe asthma. Finally, cytotoxic autoantibodies may also be implicated as IgG antibodies directed against epithelial proteins, such as cytokeratin‐18, have been detected in intrinsic asthma, possibly as a result of epithelial damage and this may make epithelial cells more susceptible to microbial colonization. The therapeutic implications are that antibodies against local IgE and microbial superantigens or antibiotic therapy to eradicate the relevant superantigen‐producing microorganisms may improve the efficacy of conventional therapy with corticosteroids.
Calcium balance in Daphnia grown on diets differing in food quantity, phosphorus and calcium
Authors: HE XUE‐JIA , WANG WEN‐XIONG
Published: June 2009

1. The influences of dietary phosphorus (P) and food concentration on the calcium (Ca) balance in Daphnia magna were examined in this study at two different ambient Ca concentrations (0.5 and 10 mg Ca L−1). Daphnia were grown by feeding the young adults differentially under contrasting dietary P conditions [molar C : P ratio = c. 900 and c. 90 as low P (LP) and high P (HP), respectively], ambient Ca concentrations [0.5 mg and 10 mg Ca L−1 as low Ca (LCa) or high Ca (HCa), respectively] and food levels [0.15 or 1.5 mg C L−1 as low food (LF) or high food (HF), respectively] for 5 days.

2. The specific Ca contents of daphniids (1.9–6.5% of dry weight−1) increased with increasing Ca concentration, food level and dietary P content, although the food level did not affect the Ca content in the HPHCa treatment. A radioactive tracer method showed that the food level did not affect the influx of Ca from the water under LP conditions, but the Ca influx under HP conditions doubled with a HF level. A LP condition also led to a decrease in Ca influx with a HF level.

3. During the 3 days of efflux, generally only a small proportion of Ca (2.6–3.3%) was retained by the daphniids, but this retention increased (14–23%) under low ambient Ca concentrations and under P‐limitation. Excretion was the most important pathway for Ca loss (accounting for 50–60% of body Ca), followed by moulting (20–47%), but the relative contribution of these two pathways (excretion and moulting) did not vary among all the different treatments. The absolute loss of Ca through excretion and moulting, on the contrary, differed with different ambient Ca concentrations and dietary P conditions. A HF level led to an increase in the loss rates in most cases.

4. Our study strongly suggested that there is an interaction between an essential metal (Ca) and macronutrients (C and P) in freshwater crustaceans with HCa and P contents. The results imply that variation in environmental nutrient conditions may change the Ca budget in crustaceans and may affect the dynamics of Ca in the epilimnion of freshwaters.
Review of non‐invasive ventilation in the emergency department: clinical considerations and management priorities
Authors: Rose Louise , Gerdtz Marie F
Published: June 2009

Aims and objectives.  We aimed to synthesise evidence from published literature on non‐invasive ventilation to inform nurses involved in the clinical management of non‐invasive ventilation in the emergency department.

Background.  Non‐invasive ventilation is a form of ventilatory support that does not require endotracheal intubation and is used in the early management of acute respiratory failure in emergency departments. Safe delivery of this intervention requires a skilled team, educated and experienced in appropriate patient selection, available devices and monitoring priorities.

Design.  Systematic review.

Method.  A multi‐database search was performed to identify works published in the English language between 1998–2008. Search terms included: non‐invasive ventilation, continuous positive airway pressure and emergency department. Inclusion and exclusion criteria for the review were identified and systematically applied.

Results.  Terminology used to describe aspects of non‐invasive ventilation is ambiguous. Two international guidelines inform the delivery of this intervention, however, much research has been undertaken since these publications. Strong evidence exists for non‐invasive ventilation for patients with acute exacerbation of congestive heart failure and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Non‐invasive ventilation may be delivered with various interfaces and modes; little evidence is available for the superiority of individual interfaces or modes.

Conclusions.  Early use of non‐invasive ventilation for the management of acute respiratory failure may reduce mortality and morbidity. Though international guidelines exist, specific recommendations to guide the selection of modes, settings or interfaces for various aetiologies are lacking due to the absence of empirical evidence.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Monitoring of non‐invasive ventilation should focus on assessment of response to treatment, respiratory and haemodynamic stability, patient comfort and presence of air leaks. Complications are related to mask‐fit and high air flows; serious complications are few and occur infrequently. The use of non‐invasive ventilation has resource implications that must be considered to provide effective and safe management in the emergency department.
Lateral line depigmentation (LLD) in channel catfish,Ictalurus punctatus(Rafinesque)
Authors: Corrales J , Ullal A , Noga E J
Published: June 2009

Head and lateral line erosion (HLLE) is a chronic dermatopathy affecting a number of fish that presents as depigmented skin along the lateral line system of the trunk and head. We present microbiological, immunological and histopathological features of this lesion in channel catfish,Ictalurus punctatus(Rafinesque), that developed after exposure to a chronic nutritional stress. Depigmention was limited to skin that was adjacent to the lateral line. The epidermis of affected fish was thin and reduced to a one‐cell‐thick layer over the lateral line. Melanocytes were depleted at the dermo‐epidermal junction and formed aggregates in the epidermis. Innate immunity was weaker in affected fish than that previously measured in well‐fed channel catfish. Because the pathology and apparent aetiology of HLLE described in various fish species are highly variable, HLLE appears to be a clinical sign, rather than a disease or syndrome. Thus, we propose that this clinical sign be referred to as lateral line depigmentation (LLD), because this description more accurately encompasses all cases of this presentation reported in fish. As nutritional requirements of channel catfish and lateral line neuroanatomy are well‐known, the ability to reproducibly induce LLD in this species could provide a useful model for understanding its pathogenesis.
First isolation and characterization of Lactococcus garvieae from Brazilian Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), and pintado, Pseudoplathystoma corruscans (Spix & Agassiz)
Authors: Evans J J , Klesius P H , Shoemaker C A
Published: June 2009

Lactococcus garvieae infection in cultured Nile tilapia, Oreochromis niloticus (L.), and pintado, Pseudoplathystoma corruscans (Spix & Agassiz), from Brazil is reported. The commercial bacterial identification system, Biolog Microlog®, confirmed the identity of L. garvieae. Infectivity trials conducted in Nile tilapia using Brazilian Nile tilapia L. garvieae isolates resulted in a median lethal dose‐50 of 1.4 × 105 colony‐forming units (CFU)/fish. This is the first evidence of the presence of this pathogen from Brazilian fish. In addition, this is the first report of L. garvieae infection in either Nile tilapia or pintado. Collectively, this evidence expands the geographical range of fish hosts, number of fish hosts harbouring L. garvieae and carbon source utilization by L. garvieae fish isolates. Furthermore, the Biolog system may be an alternative technique to polymerase chain reaction for the identification of L. garvieae and discrimination between closely related bacterial species.
Epiphanies and research in the field of mental health
Authors: LEES J.
Published: June 2009

Accessible summary

This article looks at the richness inherent in our life experience and engages on a journey to examine this richness in the light of two experiences (or epiphanies) on a clinical training course. It demonstrates how, as a result of continued refection and reflexive analysis, my understanding of these experiences transformed over a period of time.

The field of inquiry was a training in psychoanalytic counselling. My ongoing analysis of the experiences provided an evaluation of some key features of that culture and the nature of clinical training, particularly in psychoanalytic milieu.

The article concludes with a discussion about the academic culture in which I am now working and the way in which it influences my writing style (in, for example, this article). It concludes that the discourse of this culture prevents us from reaching our creative spiritual core and examines how we can overcome this limitation.

In this paper I will argue that investigating our professional experiences can enrich our understanding, widen our perspective, transform our inner lives and create an endless source of discovery about ourselves, society and the professional discursive systems that we inhabit. I will call such events, after Denzin's work in 1989, epiphanies. In order to develop the theme I will give an account of my own experience of two such epiphanies on a psychoanalytic training course in counselling. I will then present my reflexive analysis of these events over the years, including my reflections on the peer review comments for this paper, and finish with some questions arising out of the study relating to the current status of nursing as an academic profession.
Parental mental illness: a review of barriers and issues for working with families and children
Authors: MAYBERY D. , REUPERT A.
Published: June 2009

Accessible summary

For the psychiatric workforce to become family focused (particularly in relation to children) there is a clear need for family sensitive policies and procedures, managerial and organizational support and well‐targeted and sustained workforce training. However, there are multiple barriers to the adult mental health workforce becoming family focused including:

Some adult mental health services do not identify consumers who are parents and subsequently do not respond to children, parenting and family needs.

Organizations often do not have adequate family and child friendly policies and procedures.

The adult mental health workforce lacks skills and knowledge about families, children and parenting.

The workforce needs to increase encouragement of consumers to include family members and dependent children in treatment of the ill parent including the provision of psycho‐education.

Many consumers of psychiatric services are parents, making these services the opportunistic point for supporting consumers' children. While evidence suggests that assisting such children improves their mental health, there is a large gulf between what psychiatric services should (or could) provide and what they do in practice. This paper summarizes the constraining barriers and issues for the psychiatric workforce according to: (1) policy and management; (2) interagency collaboration; (3) worker attitude, skill and knowledge; (4) the parent‐consumer; and (5) the consumer's family, including children. Potential solutions are presented, with a particular focus on the hierarchical nature of these barriers. Recommendations are made, including organizational audits to identify the most pressing barriers that impede family sensitive practice.
Licking induced changes to the pattern of moxidectin milk elimination after topical treatment in dairy cows
Authors: IMPERIALE F. , SALLOVITZ J. , FARIAS C. , LIFSCHITZ A. , LANUSSE C.
Published: June 2009

Pour‐on administration of the macrocyclic lactones anti‐parasitic compounds in beef and dairy cattle is now worldwide accepted. However, the information available on their milk excretion pattern, after topical administration is rather limited. Additionally, the cattle licking behaviour has been proven to affect the kinetics of these anti‐parasitic compounds. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of the natural licking behaviour on the plasma and milk disposition of moxidectin (MXD), topically administered (500 μg/kg) in lactating dairy cows. Ten lactating Holstein dairy cows (705 kg body weight) were allocated into two experimental groups (n = 5). The licking was prevented during 5 days postadministration in animals in group I, and the remaining cows (group II) were allowed to lick freely. MXD concentrations profiles were measured in plasma and milk over 15 days posttreatment. The licking restriction period caused marked changes in MXD disposition kinetics both in plasma and milk. Both plasma and milk MXD concentrations (partial AUC 0–5 days) were significantly lower (P < 0.05) in licking‐restricted cows. After the 5‐day of restriction period, the animals were allowed to lick freely, which permitted the oral ingestion of MXD, situation clearly reflected both in plasma profile and milk excretion pattern. Despite the enhanced MXD milk concentrations measured in free‐licking cows, drug concentrations did not reach the maximum MXD residues limit.
Monitoring exposure to avian influenza viruses in wild mammals
Authors: VANDALEN KACI K. , SHRINER SUSAN A. , SULLIVAN HEATHER J. , ROOT J. JEFFREY , FRANKLIN ALAN B.
Published: June 2009

Avian influenza (AI) viruses primarily circulate in wild waterfowl populations and are occasionally transmitted to domestic poultry flocks. However, the possible roles of other wildlife species, such as wild mammals, in AI virus ecology have not been adequately addressed.

Due to their habitat and behaviour, many wild mammals may be capable of transmitting pathogens among wild and domestic populations. Exposure to AI viruses has been reported in an array of wild and domestic animals. The presence of wild mammals on farms has been identified as a risk factor for at least one poultry AI outbreak in North America. These reports suggest the need for seroprevalence studies examining the exposure of wild mammals to AI viruses.

Serological tests are routinely used to assess domestic poultry, domestic swine and human exposure to influenza A viruses, but these tests have not been validated for use in wild mammals. As such, some of these protocols may require adjustments or may be inappropriate for use in serology testing of wild mammals. Herein, we review these serological techniques and evaluate their potential usefulness in AI surveillance of wild mammals. We call for care to be taken when applying serological tests outside their original area of validation, and for continued assay verification for multiple species and virus strains.
Role of the Helix aspersa snail as a vector of Phytophthora citrophthora causing branch cankers on clementine trees in Spain
Authors: Alvarez L. A. , Gramaje D. , Abad‐Campos P. , García‐Jiménez J.
Published: June 2009

This study investigated the suspected role of invertebrate vectors in the transmission of phytophthora branch canker, a severe disease of clementine cultivars in Spain, caused by Phytophthora citrophthora. Ants (Lasius grandis) and snails (Helix aspersa and Rumina decollata) were collected in spring and autumn 2005 from 15 commercial citrus fields which were severely affected by the disease. Isolations made from L. grandis and R. decollata bodies did not yield positive results. However, P. citrophthora was isolated from 5·0% of bodies of H. aspersa and 4·8% of samples of their faeces. In one assay, after snails were allowed to feed for 5 h on citrus branches which had been artificially infected with P. citrophthora, the pathogen was isolated from 79% of their faeces. In another experiment, snails were infested by placing them in contact with a substrate colonized by P. citrophthora and then transferred to the base of potted 4‐year‐old trees of cvs Clemenules, Fortune and Nova in the glasshouse. One day after their release, infested snails were widely distributed throughout the tree canopies and 10 days later bark discoloration and gum exudations were observed on the trees. Phytophthora citrophthora was readily isolated from tissues showing symptoms.