bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Null model of biotic homogenization: a test with the European freshwater fish fauna
Authors: Leprieur F. , Beauchard O. , Hugueny B. , Grenouillet G. , Brosse S.
Published: December 2008

In recent years, there has been growing concern about how species invasions and extinctions could change the distinctiveness of formerly disparate fauna and flora, a process called biotic homogenization. In the present study, a null model of biotic of homogenization was developed and applied to the European freshwater fish fauna. We found that non‐native fish species led to the greatest homogenization in south‐western Europe and greatest differentiation in north‐eastern Europe. Comparing these observed patterns to those expected by our null model empirically demonstrated that biotic homogenization is a non‐random ecological pattern, providing evidence for previous assumptions. The place of origin of non‐native species was also considered by distinguishing between exotic (originating from outside Europe) and translocated species (originating from within Europe). We showed that exotic and translocated species generated distinct geographical patterns of biotic homogenization across Europe because of their contrasting effects on the changes in community similarity among river basins. Translocated species promoted homogenization among basins, whereas exotic species tended to decrease their compositional similarity. Quantifying the individual effect of exotic and translocated species is therefore an absolute prerequisite to accurately assess the spatial dynamics of biotic homogenization.
Multiple introductions of two invasive Centaurea taxa inferred from cpDNA haplotypes
Authors: Hufbauer Ruth A. , Sforza René
Published: December 2008

Knowing the origin of invasive taxa, whether multiple introductions have occurred, and levels of genetic variation relative to the native range, is vital to conducting rigorous tests of hypotheses to explain biological invasions. We explore phylogeographical relationships of two Eurasian knapweed taxa that are invasive in North America, Centaurea diffusa and C. stoebe micranthos (Asteraceae), using chloroplast DNA intron sequences. We also gathered data from C. stoebe stoebe, hybrids between C. diffusa and C. stoebe stoebe (C. xpsammogena), and three other species in the genus. We sequenced 213 individuals from Eurasia and North America, and found 22 haplotypes. Centaurea diffusa has lower haplotype diversity and allelic richness in the introduced range relative to the native range. Even with reduced variation, the data suggest at least two introductions of C. diffusa. There is a trend towards reduced variation in C. stoebe micranthos, but it is not significant. One of the haplotypes found in North American C. stoebe micranthos matches a haplotype from a taxon other than C. stoebe micranthos in Europe. This suggests introgression of the chloroplast between taxa, or possibly the invasion of another Centaurea taxon into North America. Additionally, C. diffusa, C. stoebe micranthos, and C. stoebe stoebe share several haplotypes, including their most common haplotype. This suggests ongoing hybridization between the species or incomplete segregation. These data can guide further exploration for the origins of these species, and point out locations within the introduced range with unique and diverse genetic makeup.
Avian assemblage structure and domestic cat densities in urban environments
Authors: Sims Victoria , Evans Karl L. , Newson Stuart E. , Tratalos Jamie A. , Gaston Kevin J.
Published: December 2008

While there is intense debate regarding the impact of domestic cat populations on wildlife, its resolution is hindered by the lack of quite basic information. Domestic cats are generalist and obligate predators that receive supplementary food, and their population density reflects that of humans more than the density of their prey. In such a predator–prey system there is the potential for cat populations to have negative impacts on avian assemblages, which may be indicated by negative correlations between cat density and avian species richness and density. Here we report on the nature of such correlations across urban areas in Britain both for groups of species classified regarding their vulnerability to cat predation and individual species. Taking the availability of green space into account, we find negative relationships between cat densities and the number of bird species breeding in urban 1 km × 1 km squares. These relationships are particularly strong among groups of species that are vulnerable to cat predation. We find positive correlations between cat and avian densities; these have low explanatory power and shallow slopes among the species groups that are particularly vulnerable to cat predation. Evidence that the densities of individual species that are vulnerable to cat predation are negatively correlated with cat densities is equivocal, with at least half the species showing no marked pattern, and the remainder exhibiting contrasting patterns. Our results appear not to be confounded by the density of nest‐predating corvids (carrion crow, magpie, and jay), as the density of these species was not strongly negatively correlated with avian species richness or density. The general lack of marked negative correlations between cat and avian densities at our focal spatial scale may be a consequence of consistently high cat densities in our study areas (minimum density is 132 cats per square kilometre), and thus uniformly high impacts of cat populations on urban avian assemblages.
Detection of single‐vessel coronary artery disease by dipyridamole stress echocardiography: no longer a problem?
Authors: Lipiec Piotr , Wejner‐Mik Paulina , Krzemińska‐Pakula Maria , Kuśmierek Jacek , Plachcińska Anna , Szumiński Remigiusz , Kasprzak Jaroslaw D.
Published: December 2008

We aimed to evaluate whether addition of myocardial contrast echocardiography (MCE) perfusion data improves the sensitivity of stress echocardiography for detection of single‐vessel coronary artery disease (svCAD) and to compare the diagnostic value of MCE and single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) for detection of svCAD.

Methods  One hundred and three patients with suspected or known stable CAD underwent dipyridamole (0·84 mg kg−1 intravenously over 4 min)‐atropine (up to 1 mg intravenously) stress echocardiography combined with MCE. Wall motion abnormalities (WMA) and perfusion defects were assessed visually. Presence of CAD was detected by coronary angiography.

Results  Single‐vessel coronary artery disease defined as ≥70% stenosis was detected in 30% of patients, whereas 26% of patients had svCAD defined as ≥50% stenosis. Presence of inducible WMA had 35% and 26% sensitivity for detection of svCAD defined as ≥70% and ≥50% stenosis, respectively. Concomitant evaluation of MCE increased the sensitivity to 74% (P = 0·005) and 56% (P = 0·053), respectively, using any inducible abnormality (WMA or perfusion defects) as a criterion. Presence of any (inducible or fixed) WMA had 77% and 59% sensitivity for detection of svCAD defined as ≥70% and ≥50% stenosis, respectively. In case of such criterion for stress test positivity, the improvement in sensitivity provided by addition of MCE (to 94% and 78%, respectively) did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions  Addition of MCE perfusion analysis during stress echocardiographical examination based on evaluation of inducible abnormalities improves the test sensitivity for detection of svCAD. This benefit is less apparent when fixed WMA and perfusion defects are incorporated into the stress test positivity criterion.
Montreal Cognitive Assessment Performance in Patients with Parkinson's Disease with “Normal” Global Cognition According to Mini‐Mental State Examination Score
Authors: Nazem Sarra , Siderowf Andrew D. , Duda John E. , Ten Have Tom , Colcher Amy , Horn Stacy S. , Moberg Paul J. , Wilkinson Jayne R. , Hurtig Howard I. , Stern Matthew B. , Weintraub Daniel
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) performance in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) with “normal” global cognition according to Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) score.

DESIGN: A cross‐sectional comparison of the MoCA and the MMSE.

SETTING: Two movement disorders centers at the University of Pennsylvania and the Philadelphia Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

PARTICIPANTS: A convenience sample of 131 patients with idiopathic PD who were screened for cognitive and psychiatric complications.

MEASUREMENTS: Subjects were administered the MoCA and MMSE, and only subjects defined as having a normal age‐ and education‐adjusted MMSE score were included in the analyses (N=100). As previously recommended in patients without PD, a MoCA score less than 26 was used to indicate the presence of at least mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

RESULTS: Mean MMSE and MoCA scores±standard deviation were 28.8±1.1 and 24.9±3.1, respectively. More than half (52.0%) of subjects with normal MMSE scores had cognitive impairment according to their MoCA score. Impairments were seen in numerous cognitive domains, including memory, visuospatial and executive abilities, attention, and language. Predictors of cognitive impairment on the MoCA using univariate analyses were male sex, older age, lower educational level, and greater disease severity; older age was the only predictor in a multivariate model.

CONCLUSION: Approximately half of patients with PD with a normal MMSE score have cognitive impairment based on the recommended MoCA cutoff score. These results suggest that MCI is common in PD and that the MoCA is a more sensitive instrument than the MMSE for its detection.
Stopping to Rest During a 400‐Meter Walk and Incident Mobility Disability in Older Persons with Functional Limitations
Authors: Vestergaard Sonja , Patel Kushang V. , Walkup Michael P. , Pahor Marco , Marsh Anthony P. , Espeland Mark A. , Studenski Stephanie , Gill Thomas M. , Church Timothy , Guralnik Jack M.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: To examine the association between stopping to rest during a 400‐m usual‐pace walk test (400‐MWT) and incident mobility disability in older persons with functional limitations.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study.

SETTING: Community based.

PARTICIPANTS: Four hundred twenty‐four participants in the Lifestyle Intervention and Independence for Elders Pilot (LIFE‐P) Study aged 70 to 89 with functional limitations (summary score ≤9 on the Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB)) but able to complete the 400‐MWT within 15 minutes.

MEASUREMENTS: Rest stops during the 400‐MWT were recorded. The onset of mobility disability, defined as being unable to complete the 400‐MWT or taking more than 15 minutes to do so, was recorded at Months 6 and 12.

RESULTS: Fifty‐four (12.7%) participants rested during the 400‐MWT at baseline, of whom 37.7% experienced mobility disability during follow‐up, versus 8.6% of those not stopping to rest. Performing any rest stop was strongly associated with incident mobility disability at follow‐up (odds ratio (OR)=5.4, 95% confidence interval (CI)=2.7–10.9) after adjustment for age, sex, and clinic site. This association was weaker, but remained statistically significant, after further adjusting for SPPB and time to complete the 400‐MWT simultaneously (OR=2.6, 95% CI=1.2–5.9).

CONCLUSION: Stopping to rest during the 400‐MWT is strongly associated with incident mobility disability in nondisabled older persons with functional limitations. Given the prognostic value, rest stops should be recorded as part of the standard assessment protocol for the 400‐MWT.
Functional Trajectories in Older Persons Admitted to a Nursing Home with Disability After an Acute Hospitalization
Authors: Gill Thomas M. , Gahbauer Evelyne A. , Han Ling , Allore Heather G.
Published: December 2008

OBJECTIVES: To characterize the functional trajectories of older persons admitted to a nursing home with disability after an acute hospitalization.

DESIGN: Prospective cohort study of 754 community‐living persons aged 70 and older who were initially nondisabled in four essential activities of daily living (ADLs).

SETTING: Greater New Haven, Connecticut.

PARTICIPANTS: The analytical sample included 296 participants who were newly admitted to a nursing home with disability after an acute hospitalization.

MEASUREMENTS: Information on nursing home admissions, hospitalizations, and disability in essential ADLs was ascertained during monthly telephone interviews for up to 9 years. Disability was defined as the need for personal assistance in bathing, dressing, walking inside one's home, or transferring from a chair.

RESULTS: The median time to the first nursing home admission with disability after an acute hospitalization was 46 months (interquartile range 27.5–75.5), and the mean number±standard deviation of ADLs that participants were disabled in upon admission was 3.0±1.2. In the month preceding hospitalization, 189 (63.9%) participants had no disability. The most common functional trajectory was discharged home with disability (46.3%), followed by continuous disability in the nursing home (27.4%), discharged home without disability (21.6%), and noncontinuous disability in the nursing home (4.4%). Only 96 (32.4%) participants returned home at (or above) their premorbid level of function.

CONCLUSION: The functional trajectories of older persons admitted to a nursing home with disability after an acute hospitalization are generally poor. Additional research is needed to identify the factors responsible for these poor outcomes.
The Effect of Multiknowledge Individuals on Performance in Cross‐Functional New Product Development Teams*
Authors: Hyung‐Jin Park Michael , Lim Jong Won , Birnbaum‐More Philip H.
Published: December 2008

This study examines the effect of multiknowledge individuals (especially those possessing both marketing and technological knowledge) on performance in cross‐functional new product development teams. A survey of 62 cross‐functional teams shows that the proportion of multiknowledge individuals has an indirect positive effect through information sharing on product innovativeness and a direct positive effect on time efficiency of new product development teams.
Understanding the Determinants of Service Channel Preference in the Early Stages of Adoption: A Social Cognitive Perspective on Online Brokerage Services*
Authors: Looney Clayton Arlen , Akbulut Asli Yagmur , Poston Robin S.
Published: December 2008

In today's increasingly technology‐mediated world, individuals are often confronted with a decision of whether to obtain services through online, self‐service technologies or traditional, nontechnological alternatives. Understanding the mechanisms by which consumers choose among these competing service channels represents an important concern for organizations, consumers, and Web site designers. This study develops a research model based on Social Cognitive Theory to explain and predict service channel preferences that arise in the early stages of adoption, before a consumer conducts business using a particular channel. The model is subsequently tested in the brokerage services context, using observations obtained via survey. Given the growing popularity of online investing combined with the challenging prospect of making optimal decisions in an inherently risky environment, the context offers insights of practical and theoretical importance. The results suggest that task‐specific self‐efficacy beliefs serve as the activating mechanism kicking off a chain of psychological events that entice consumers to favor a particular service channel. Higher levels of self‐efficacy induce individuals to prefer the online approach. In addition to its direct effect on preference for the online service channel, higher levels of self‐efficacy influence one's propensity to take risks and expectations of performance‐oriented rewards, which, in turn, sway consumers to favor the online service channel. Furthermore, self‐efficacy and perceptions concerning the credibility of online information interact to affect service channel preference. Consumers are more likely to prefer the online service channel when they view themselves as capable and perceive online sources to be credible. Implications for theory and practice are discussed in light of the findings.
Effect of a xenograft on early bone formation in extraction sockets: an experimental study in dog
Authors: Araújo M. , Linder E. , Lindhe J.
Published: December 2008

Aim: The aim of this study was to study the effect on early bone formation resulting from the placement of a xenograft in the fresh extraction socket in dogs.

Material and methods: Five beagle dogs were used. The distal roots of the third and fourth mandibular premolars were removed. In one quadrant, a graft consisting of Bio‐Oss® Collagen was placed in the fresh extraction wound, while the corresponding premolar sites in the contra‐lateral jaw quadrant were left non‐grafted. After 2 weeks of healing, the dogs were perfused with a fixative, the mandibles removed, the experimental sites dissected, demineralized, sectioned in the mesio‐distal plane and stained in hematoxyline–eosine.

Results: The central portion of the non‐grafted sockets was occupied by a provisional matrix comprised of densely packed connective tissue fibers and mesenchymal cells. Apical and lateral to the provisional matrix, newly formed woven bone was found to occupy most of the sockets. In the apical part of the grafted sockets, no particles of the xenograft could be observed but newly formed bone was present in this portion of the experimental site. In addition, limited numbers of woven bone trabeculae occurred along the lateral socket walls. The central and marginal segments of the grafted sockets, however, were occupied by a non‐mineralized connective tissue that enclosed Bio‐Oss® particles that frequently were coated by multinucleated cells.

Conclusions: The placement of Bio‐Oss® Collagen in the fresh extraction wound obviously delayed socket healing. Thus, after 2 weeks of tissue repair, only minute amounts of newly formed bone occurred in the apical and lateral borders of the grafted sockets, while large amounts of woven bone had formed in most parts of the non‐grafted sites.
REVIEW ARTICLE: Status of Contraceptive Vaccines
Authors: Naz Rajesh K.
Published: December 2008

Problem  This is a review of anti‐sperm contraceptive vaccines (CV), and synthesis of human scFv antibodies that can be used as immunocontraceptives.

Method of study  Various methods of proteomics and genomics, peptide synthesis, phage display technology, and antibody engineering were used to obtain multi‐epitope vaccines and human scFv antibodies from immunoinfertile and vasectomized men. The present review primarily focuses on the effect of multi‐epitope vaccines and Izumo on fertility, and synthesis and characterization of sperm specific human scFv antibodies.

Results  The immunization with Izumo peptides causes a contraceptive effect in female mice. The efficacy is enhanced by combination vaccination, including peptides based on other sperm antigens. Using phage display technology, we were able to synthesize at least four novel scFv antibodies with unique complementarity determining regions (CDRs) that reacted with specific fertility‐related sperm antigens. These antibodies inhibited human sperm function in vitro, and their immunocontraceptive effect in vivo by these antibodies is currently being investigated.

Conclusion  The multi‐epitope vaccines may provide an efficacious and viable approach to contraception. The human scFv antibodies, if they block fertility in vivo, may provide unique and novel immunocontraceptives, the first of its kind for human use. The multi‐epitope CV and preformed engineered antibodies of defined specificity may obliterate the concern related to inter‐individual variability of the immune response.
Tranexamic acid can inhibit tongue squamous cell carcinoma invasion in vitro
Authors: Suojanen J , Sorsa T , Salo T
Published: December 2008

Objectives:  Tranexamic acid (TA) is an inhibitor of plasminogen activation commonly used in surgery. Plasmin, the end product of plasminogen activation, degrades fibrin in the thrombus, leading to thrombolysis. However, plasmin is also associated with progression of several cancers and with cancer‐associated matrix metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) activation. As the gelatinases MMP‐2 and ‐9 are involved in cancer progression, several antigelatinolytic drugs have been developed as potential anticancer therapeutics. We previously developed gelatinases targeting peptide CTT1 capable of inhibiting carcinoma growth.

Study design:  The effects of TA and CTT1 on tongue carcinoma aggressiveness were evaluated in an in vitro assay of human HSC‐3 and SCC‐25 cells.

Materials and methods:  The cells were cultured with or without TA and CTT1 and their proMMP‐9 production and activation were analysed with Western immunoblotting and gelatin zymography. Their effects on tongue carcinoma invasion were analysed in a Matrigel assay.

Results:  Tranexamic acid alone and in combination with CTT1 can inhibit tongue SCC invasion in vitro, at least partially explained by its property of reducing the plasmin‐mediated activation of proMMP‐9.

Conclusions:  These data suggest that patients undergoing surgical therapy for large oral malignancies may cobenefit from prolonged TA therapy, because of its antithrombolytic and antitumour properties.
Adenoviral gene transfer of acetylcholinesterase T subunit in the hypothalamus potentiates electroacupuncture analgesia in rats
Authors: Kim S. K. , Park J. Y. , Koo B. H. , Lee J.‐H. , Kim H. S. , Choi W.‐K. , Shim I. , Lee H. , Hong M.‐C. , Shin M.‐K. , Min B.‐I. , Bae H.
Published: December 2008

Our previous studies, using cDNA microarray and real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction, showed that acetylcholinesterase T subunit (AChET) gene was more abundantly expressed in the hypothalamus of the responder rats that were sensitive to electroacupuncture (EA) in the tail flick latency (TFL) test than in that of the non‐responder rats that were insensitive to EA. In this study, we hypothesized that the expression of the AChET gene in the hypothalamus modulates EA analgesia in rats. To explore the hypothesis, we constructed an AChET‐encoding adenovirus and a control virus expressing only green fluorescence protein, either of which was then injected into the hypothalamus of Sprague‐Dawley rats. The hypothalamic activity of acetylcholinesterase was significantly higher in rats that were injected with the AChET virus than in rats that were injected with the control virus. The basal pain threshold measured by a TFL test was not changed by microinjection of AChET or control virus into the hypothalamus when EA treatment was not conducted. However, the analgesic effect of EA was significantly enhanced from 7 days after microinjection of the AChET virus into the hypothalamus but not after injection of the control virus. Furthermore, expression of the AChET in the hypothalamus did not affect body core temperature, body weight, motor function or learning and memory ability. Taken together, these results suggest that adenoviral expression of the AChET gene in the hypothalamus potentiates EA analgesia in rats without apparent side‐effects.
Genetic variability within the innate immune system influences personality traits in women
Authors: Suchankova P. , Henningsson S. , Baghaei F. , Rosmond R. , Holm G. , Ekman A.
Published: December 2008

Raised levels of inflammation markers have been associated with several mental disorders; however, studies regarding the relationship between inflammation or the immune system and various aspects of human behaviour are not numerous. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether an association exists between personality traits and two single nucleotide polymorphisms located in genes that are associated with the innate immune system. The studied population consisted of 42‐year‐old women recruited from the population registry that had been assessed by means of Karolinska Scales of Personality, a self‐reported inventory. The first polymorphism, +1444C>T (rs1130864), is located in the gene coding for C‐reactive protein (CRP), a marker of low‐grade inflammation. The T‐allele has previously been suggested to be linked to raised serum levels of CRP. The second polymorphism, Y402H (1277T>C, rs1061170), is located in the gene coding for complement factor H, an important regulator of the complement system. The C‐allele has consistently been associated with age‐related macular degeneration. While the +1444T allele was associated with higher scores in the personality traits impulsiveness, monotony avoidance and social desirability, the 1277C polymorphism was associated with higher scores in verbal aggression and lower scores in social desirability. In conclusion, the associations between the personality traits and the studied polymorphisms further support the possible influence of the immune system on mental functions.
Inverse association of high‐fat diet preference and anxiety‐like behavior: a putative role for urocortin 2
Authors: Alsiö J. , Roman E. , Olszewski P. K. , Jonsson P. , Fredriksson R. , Levine A. S. , Meyerson B. J. , Hulting A.‐L. , Lindblom J. , Schiöth H. B.
Published: December 2008

The aim of this study was to investigate whether the preference for a palatable high‐fat diet (HFD) is associated with response to novelty and with anxiety‐like behavior in rats and whether such fat preference correlates with gene expression of hypothalamic neuropeptides related to feeding. We subjected male rats to two tests of exploration of novel environments: the multivariate concentric square field (MCSF) and the elevated plus maze (EPM). The rats were then exposed to a 5‐day test of preference for a palatable HFD versus reference diets. Messenger RNA (mRNA) levels of 21 neuropeptides were investigated by quantitative polymerase chain reaction. We found a strong positive correlation of HFD preference and open‐arm activity in the EPM (% open‐arm time, rs = 0.629, df = 26, P < 0.001). Thus, HFD preference was inversely associated with anxiety‐like behavior. The same association was found for HFD preference and behavior in the MCSF (bridge entries, rs = 0.399, df = 23, P = 0.048). In addition, the HFD preference was positively correlated (rs = 0.433, df = 25, P = 0.021) with hypothalamic mRNA levels of urocortin 2 (Ucn 2). Moreover, behavior in the EPM was significantly correlated with expression levels of the receptor for Ucn 2, the corticotropin‐releasing factor receptor 2, in the hypothalamus (rs = 0.382, df = 33, P = 0.022, pituitary (rs = 0.494, df = 31, P = 0.004) and amygdala (rs = 0.381, df = 30, P = 0.032). We conclude that preference for palatable HFD is inversely associated with anxiety and propose that Ucn 2 signaling may play a role in this association.
Marker‐assisted dissection of genetic influences on motor and neuroendocrine sensitization to cocaine in rats
Authors: Vendruscolo L. F. , Vendruscolo J. C. M. , Terenina E. , Ramos A. , Takahashi R. N. , Mormède P.
Published: December 2008

This study investigated genetic influences on behavioral and neuroendocrine responses to cocaine sensitization. We used male and female rats of the inbred strains Lewis (LEW) and spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR), which display genetic differences in stress‐related responses. The influence of two quantitative trait loci (QTL;Ofil1andOfil2on chromosomes 4 and 7), which modulate stress reactivity in rats, on the effects of cocaine was also investigated through the use of recombinant lines (derived from a LEW × SHR intercross) selected by their genotype atOfil1andOfil2. Animals were given repeated cocaine or saline injections and tested for locomotion (induction of sensitization). Two weeks later, all animals were challenged with cocaine, and locomotion and corticosterone levels were measured (expression of sensitization). Results indicated that male SHR rats showed more behavioral sensitization than LEW rats, whereas no strain differences in sensitization were seen among females. When challenged with cocaine, LEW and SHR rats of both sexes pretreated with cocaine showed behavioral sensitization compared with saline pretreated animals; however, only LEW rats displayed an increase in the corticosterone levels.Ofil1was found to influence the induction of sensitization in males andOfil2modulated the locomotor effect of cocaine in females. This study provides evidence of a genotype‐dependent relationship between the induction and expression of cocaine sensitization, and between the behavioral and neuroendocrine responses induced by cocaine. Moreover, theOfil1andOfil2loci may contain one or more genes that control the behavioral effects of cocaine in rats.
Phenotyping mouse chromosome substitution strains reveal multiple QTLs for febrile seizure susceptibility
Authors: Hessel E. V. S. , Van Gassen K. L. I. , Wolterink‐Donselaar I. G. , Stienen P. J. , Fernandes C. , Brakkee J. H. , Kas M. J. H. , De Graan P. N. E.
Published: December 2008

Febrile seizures (FS) are the most common seizure type in children and recurrent FS are a risk factor for developing temporal lobe epilepsy. Although the mechanisms underlying FS are largely unknown, recent family, twin and animal studies indicate that genetics are important in FS susceptibility. Here, a forward genetic strategy was used employing mouse chromosome substitution strains (CSS) to identify novel FS susceptibility quantitative trait loci (QTLs). FS were induced by exposure to warm air at postnatal day 14. Video electroencephalogram monitoring identified tonic–clonic convulsion onset, defined as febrile seizure latency (FSL), as a reliable phenotypic parameter to determine FS susceptibility. FSL was determined in both sexes of the host strain (C57BL/6J), the donor strain (A/J) and CSS. C57BL/6J mice were more susceptible to FS than A/J mice. Phenotypic screening of the CSS panel identified six strains (CSS1, ‐2, ‐6 ‐10, ‐13 and ‐X) carrying QTLs for FS susceptibility. CSS1, ‐10 and ‐13 were less susceptible (protective QTLs), whereas CSS2, ‐6 and ‐X were more susceptible (susceptibility QTLs) to FS than the C57BL/6J strain. Our data show that mouse FS susceptibility is determined by complex genetics, which is distinct from that for chemically induced seizures. This is the first data set using CSS to screen for a seizure trait in mouse pups. It provides evidence for common FS susceptibility QTLs that serve as starting points to fine map FS susceptibility QTLs and to identify FS susceptibility genes. This will increase our understanding of human FS, working toward the identification of new therapeutic targets.
Determinants of long‐term weight maintenance
Authors: Sarlio‐Lähteenkorva S
Published: December 2008

The aim of this paper is to discuss existing evidence on the determinants of weight maintenance by examining population based studies on weight gain as well as studies on weight loss maintenance.

The data shows that disadvantaged groups are less likely to maintain healthy weight, and various social and economic problems starting from early in the life cycle may increase the risk of later weight gain. Long‐term data on weight loss maintenance is still very limited. It is obvious that permanent behavioural changes that lead to reduced energy intake and/or increased energy expenditure are needed but otherwise the search for predictors in weight loss maintenance has been largely discouraging.

In conclusion, since social and economic problems seem to increase the risk of weight gain more attention should be paid to environments that promote healthy weight maintenance.
Microcephaly, lymphedema, chorioretinopathy and atrial septal defect: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Eventov‐Friedman Smadar , Singer Amihood , Shinwell Eric S
Published: December 2008

Background: The rare congenital combination of microcephaly, lymphedema and chorioretinopathy (MLCD) has been described. Recently, three cases with these clinical characteristics have been diagnosed as having, in addition, various congenital cardiac anomalies, which may be part of this genetic entity that presents with variable expression.

Clinical observation: Here we present a new case of a one‐year‐old infant who was born with microcephaly and lymphedema and atrial septal defect (ASD) and developed chorioretinopathy at the age of 6 months. This infant had normal neurodevelopment at one year of age.

Conclusion: We recommend that cardiac evaluation and long‐term ophthalmologic follow‐up should be part of the evaluation in each child born with microcephaly and lymphedema. Family counseling should include the fact that normal to near‐normal development may be possible, despite the presence of microcephaly.
Australian Nutrition Screening Initiative
Authors: Lipski P.S.
Published: December 2008

A new nutrition screening tool has recently been launched to help correct the neglect of the problem of malnutrition in elderly Australians. It is estimated that up to 30% of people over 60 years of age living independently in the community are suffering from malnutrition. Poor nutrition increases the time an older person requires to recover from acute illness, and leads to longer hospital stays, more complications and higher readmission rates. These factors all lead to a poor health outcome and increased health care costs. The Australian Nutrition Screening Initiative is a checklist to be used to identify those elderly people who may be at risk from malnutrition. This screening initiative represents the first national effort to raise the awareness of the problem of malnutrition among elderly people by bringing together organisations with a common interest in this problem.
Health Outcomes and Geriatric Assessment: Making Literature Reviews Relevant to Current Programs
Authors: Quartararo M.
Published: December 2008

The rationale for geriatric assessment programs includes a reduction in nursing home admissions, improved health outcomes and improved physical function. However the evidence for these benefits may not be directly transferable to all models of geriatric assessment programs. This study is a review of published studies of most relevance to aged care assessment teams with regard to one important outcome, nursing home admission. However the conclusions are limited in that no studies are directly comparable to the situation in which aged care assessment teams function. In addition, traditional outcome measures may not be appropriate in considering the effectiveness of similar models of geriatric assessment.
Treatment of anemia by recombinant human erythropoietin in cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: YURUT‐CALOGLU Vuslat , CALOGLU Murat
Published: December 2008

Anemia is a deficiency in red blood cells or in the hemoglobin (Hb) levels that leads to a decrease in the transport capacity of oxygen in the blood, which can reduce tolerance in radiotherapy (RT) and chemotherapy. The relationship between anemia and hypoxia, however, is complex and influenced by multiple variables. Although the blood Hb values that might develop hypoxia in tumors were not described clearly, optimal oxygen pressure was accepted in patients with an Hb value of 12–14 g/dL. Erythropoietin is a glycoprotein, which acts via EPOR to stimulate the growth, to prevent apoptosis, and to induce differentiation of red blood cell precursors. RhuEPO‐α and ‐β are classically administered subcutaneously three times per week at doses ranging from 150 to 300 IU/kg. Darbepoetin‐α has been shown to exhibit a longer elimination half‐life, thus allowing a once‐weekly administration at the dose of 2.25 µg/kg. Side‐effects related to rhuEPO include hypertension and thromboembolic events. RhuEPO can be used effectively in the treatment of anemia in patients with solid tumor being treated by RT or chemoradiotherapy. Furthermore, the use of rhuEPO has been demonstrated to have a sustained beneficial impact on quality of life in cancer patients. However, the role of combination of rhuEPO with external RT still remains inconclusive and several clinical trials have been pointed increased mortality in patients treated with rhuEPO. In this paper, the probable radiobiological effects of anemia in patients treated with RT, the beneficial and adverse effects of rhuEPO, and related studies are reviewed. Future directions for the use of rhuEPO are proposed.
Medium‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for cancer of the cervix: Preliminary results of a designed schedule
Authors: HASHEMI Farnaz Amouzegar , KALAGCHI Bita , AGHILI Mehdi , FARHAN Farshid , OMRANIPOUR Ramesh
Published: December 2008

Aim:  This retrospective analysis aims to report results from patients with cervical cancer treated by external beam radiation (EBR) with telecobalt and medium‐dose‐rate (MDR) brachytherapy and to establish the magnitude of brachytherapy dose reduction.

Methods:  Between June 2003 and September 2005, 77 patients with histological diagnosis of cervical carcinoma were treated with cobalt for external beam radiation, followed by one or two insertions of MDR with a dose rate from 220 ± 10 cGy/h. Median dose of EBR at whole pelvis was 50 Gy and the planned MDR schedule consisted of 1 or 2 insertions with 10–12 Gy to point A.

Results:  77 patients were followed for median of 15 months (range: 1–33 months). Local control was achieved in 63 patients 81.8%. Local failure and overall failure rates were 11.7% and 19.5%, respectively. Overall incidence of rectal and bladder complication was 9.0% (7/77) and 7.8% (6/77), respectively.

Conclusion:  Results of this series suggest that use of telecobalt for EBR together with MDR brachytherapy with a dose reduction around 20% in comparison with low‐dose‐rate (LDR) brachytherapy can be an acceptable technique, especially in developing countries.
Effects of a Conducting LaNiO3 Thick Film as a Buffer Layer of a Pb(Zr,Ti)O3 Film on Titanium Substrates
Authors: Choi Jong‐Jin , Ryu Jungho , Hahn Byung‐Dong , Yoon Woon‐Ha , Park Dong‐Soo
Published: December 2008

A conducting 8‐μm‐thick LaNiO3 (LNO) film was deposited on a Ti substrate by aerosol deposition for use as a diffusion barrier between a lead zirconate titanate (PZT) and a Ti substrate during postannealing. The deposited 20‐μm‐thick PZT films were annealed at 800°C. The PZT film deposited without LNO was cracked and partially detached from the substrate after postannealing, presumably due to a severe reaction with the Ti substrate, while no significant reactions were observed when the LNO buffer layer was used. The remnant polarization and relative dielectric constant of the 20‐μm‐thick annealed PZT films deposited on the LNO‐buffered Ti substrate were 43 μC/cm2 and 1010, respectively.
Efficient and Practical Approaches to Ground‐Water Right Transfers Under the Prior Appropriation Doctrine and the Snake River Example1
Authors: Johnson Gary S. , Contor Bryce A. , Cosgrove Donna M.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Water right transfers are one of the basic means of implementing changes in water use in the highly appropriated water resource systems of the western United States. Many of these systems are governed by the Prior Appropriation Doctrine, which was not originally intended for application to ground‐water pumping and the conjunctive management of ground water and surface water, and thus creates an administrative challenge. That challenge results from the fact that ground‐water pumping can affect all interconnected surface‐water bodies and the effects may be immeasurably small relative to surface water discharge and greatly attenuated in time. Although we may have the ability to calculate the effects of ground‐water pumping and transfers of pumping location on surface‐water bodies, mitigating for all the impacts of each individual transfer is sufficiently inefficient that it impedes the transfer process, frustrates water users, and consequently inhibits economic development. A more holistic approach to ground‐water right transfers, such as a ground‐water accounting or banking scheme, may adequately control transfer third‐party effects while reducing mitigation requirements on individual transfers. Acceptance of an accounting scheme can accelerate the transfer process, and possibly reduce the administrative burden.
Improved Bankfull Discharge Prediction Using 2‐Year Recurrence‐Period Discharge1
Authors: Wilkerson Gregory V.
Published: December 2008

Abstract:  Knowledge of bankfull discharge (Qbf) is essential for planners, engineers, geomorphologists, environmentalists, agricultural interests, developments situated on flood prone lands, surface mining and reclamation activities, and others interested in floods and flooding. In conjunction with estimating Qbf, regionalized bankfull hydraulic geometry relationships, which relate Qbf and associated channel dimensions (i.e., width, depth, and cross‐section area) to drainage basin area (Ada), are often used. This study seeks to improve upon the common practice of predicting Qbf using Ada exclusively. Specifically, we hypothesize that predictions of Qbf can be improved by including estimates of the 2‐year recurrence‐period discharge (Q2) in regression models for predicting Qbf. For testing this hypothesis, we used Qbf estimates from 30 reports containing data for streams that span 34 hydrologic regions in 16 states. Corresponding values of Q2 and Ada were compiled from flood‐frequency reports and other sources. By comparing statistical measures (i.e., root mean squared error, coefficient of determination, and Akaike’s information criterion), we determined that predicting Qbf from Q2 rather than Ada yields consistently better estimates of Qbf. Other principal findings are (1) data are needed for at least 12 sites in a region for reliable hydraulic geometry model selection and (2) an approximate range of values for Qbf/Q2 is 0.10‐3.0.
Enzyme‐Linked Immunosorbent Assay, Single Radial Immunodiffusion, and Indirect Methods for the Detection of Failure of Transfer of Passive Immunity in Dairy Calves
Authors: Lee S.‐H. , Jaekal J. , Bae C.‐S. , Chung B.‐H. , Yun S.‐C. , Gwak M.‐J. , Noh G.‐J. , Lee D.‐H.
Published: December 2008

Background:Confirmatory tests for failure of transfer of passive immunity (FTPI) in dairy calves require direct measurements of the serum immunoglobulin G concentration. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) has advantages over single radial immunodiffusion (SRID) in terms of cost and time.

Objectives:To evaluate the agreement between ELISA and SRID, and to compare the diagnostic performance of ELISA with indirect methods, in the detection of FTPI in calves.

Animals:One hundred and fifteen dairy calves (aged 0–10 days) from 23 calf‐rearing facilities.

Methods:Prospective, observational study. The agreement between SRID and ELISA was determined by the Bland‐Altman method. Fixed bias (SRID − ELISA) was calculated. For comparison of the diagnostic performance of ELISA with indirect methods, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were calculated at cut‐off values of 500 and 1,000 mg/dL.

Results:The agreement between SRID and ELISA was 94%. Fixed bias (SRID − ELISA) was 140 ± 364 mg/dL. The AUC and sensitivity of ELISA at the cut‐off value of 1,000 mg/dL were higher than those of indirect methods (P<.004). The specificity of ELISA at the cut‐off value of 1,000 mg/dL was not higher than that of indirect methods, except for serum total protein concentration assay.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance:ELISA exhibited good diagnostic performance and good agreement with SRID. ELISA is an adequate method for both screening and confirmatory tests for FTPI in dairy calves at the cut‐off value of 500 mg/dL.
Infectious Diseases of Dogs and Cats on Isabela Island, Galapagos
Authors: Levy J.K. , Crawford P.C. , Lappin M.R. , Dubovi E.J. , Levy M.G. , Alleman R. , Tucker S.J. , Clifford E.L.
Published: December 2008

Background: Vaccination and importation of dogs and cats are prohibited in the Galapagos, resulting in a uniquely isolated population. The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of infectious diseases of dogs and cats that impact their health, could spill over to native wildlife, or sentinel diseases of concern to humans.

Hypothesis: The isolation of dogs and cats in the Galapagos protects them from diseases common in mainland populations.

Animals: Ninety‐five dogs and 52 cats presented during a neutering campaign.

Methods: A prospective cross‐sectional study was performed. Blood was collected for serological and DNA evaluation of a panel of infectious diseases.

Results: Antibodies against parvovirus (100%), parainfluenza virus (100%), adenovirus 1/2 (66–67%), and distemper virus (22%) were present in dogs. Dirofilaria immitis was also common in dogs (34%), with lower prevalences of Wolbachia pipiens (22%), Bartonella sp. (13%), Ehrlichia/Anaplasma spp. (1%), and Mycoplasma haemocanis (1%) observed. Antibodies against panleukopenia virus (67%), Toxoplasma gondii (63%), calicivirus (44%), and herpesvirus 1 (10%) were detected in cats. Feline leukemia virus antigen, feline immunodeficiency virus antibody, or coronavirus antibodies were not detected. Bartonella sp. (44%) infections were common in cats, but only one was infected with M. haemofelis.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance: Despite their relative seclusion from the rest of the world, cats and dogs of Isabela were exposed to many pathogens found in mainland South America. Parasite prophylaxis, neutering, and strict enforcement of animal movement restrictions would control a majority of the diseases. In the absence of vaccination, a reservoir of susceptible animals remains vulnerable to new disease introductions.
Detection of Bartonella henselae in the Blood of 2 Adult Horses
Authors: Jones S.L. , Maggi R. , Shuler J. , Alward A. , Breitschwerdt E.B.
Published: December 2008

Background: Bartonella spp. are emerging zoonotic agents that have been found in a wide variety of domestic animals and wildlife and cause a number of clinical syndromes. Bartonella sp. infection has been identified in a growing number of animal species, including cats, rodents, porpoises, and canids, but has not been reported in horses.

Objective: To document the presence of Bartonella sp. in the blood of horses.

Animals: One horse with chronic arthropathy and 1 horse with presumptive vasculitis.

Methods: Blood samples were tested for the presence of Bartonella sp. by a combination of multiplex real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enrichment culture technique.

Results: Bartonella henselae was isolated or detected in the blood of both horses.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Bartonella henselae infection should be investigated as the cause of disease in horses.