bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular, Ultrastructural, and Biological Characterization of Pennsylvania Isolates of Plum pox virus
Authors: Schneider William L. , Damsteegt Vernon D. , Gildow Fred E. , Stone Andrew L. , Sherman Diana J. , Levy Laurene E. , Mavrodieva Vessela , Richwine Nancy , Welliver Ruth , Luster Douglas G.
Published: January 2011

Plum pox virus (PPV) was identified in Pennsylvania in 1999. The outbreak was limited to a four-county region in southern Pennsylvania. Initial serological and molecular characterization indicated that the isolates in Pennsylvania belong to the D strain of PPV. The Pennsylvania isolates were characterized by sequence analysis, electron microscopy, host range, and vector transmission to determine how these isolates related to their previously studied European counterparts. Genetically, Pennsylvania (PPV-Penn) isolates were more closely related to each other than to any other PPV-D strains, and isolates from the United States, Canada, and Chile were more closely related to each other than to European isolates. The PPV-Penn isolates exist as two clades, suggesting the possibility of multiple introductions. Electron microscopy analysis of PPV-Penn isolates, including cytopathological studies, indicated that the virions were similar to other Potyvirus spp. PPV-Penn isolates had a herbaceous host range similar to that of European D isolates. There were distinct differences in the transmission efficiencies of the two PPV-Penn isolates using Myzus persicae and Aphis spiraecola as vectors; however, both PPV-Penn isolates were transmitted by M. persicae more efficiently than a European D isolate but less efficiently than a European M isolate.
Use of invasive placebos in research on local anaesthetic interventions
Authors: McGuirk S. , Fahy C. , Costi D. , Cyna A. M.
Published: January 2011

Placebos play a vital role in clinical research, but their invasive use in the context of local anaesthetic blocks is controversial. We assessed whether recently published randomised controlled trials of local anaesthetic blocks risked harming control group patients in contravention of the Declaration of Helsinki. We developed the ‘SHAM’ (Serious Harm and Morbidity) scale to assess risk: grade 0 = no risk (no intervention); grade 1 = minimal risk (for example, skin allergy to dressing); grade 2 = minor risk (for example, subcutaneous haematoma, infection); grade 3 = moderate risk (with or without placebo injection) (for example, neuropraxia); and grade 4 = major risk (such as blindness, pneumothorax, or liver laceration). Placebo interventions of the 59 included trials were given a SHAM grade. Nine hundred and nineteen patients in 31 studies, including six studies with 183 children, received an invasive placebo assessed as SHAM grade ≥ 3. A high level of agreement (78%, κ = 0.80, p < 0.001) for SHAM grades 0–4 increased to 100% following discussion between assessors. More than half of the randomised controlled study designs subjected patients in control groups to risks of serious or irreversible harm. A debate on whether it is justifiable to expose control group patients to risks of serious harm is overdue.
Changing practice with changing research: results of two UK national surveys of intensive insulin therapy in intensive care patients*
Authors: Paddle J. J. , Eve R. L. , Sharpe K. A.
Published: January 2011

We conducted two telephone surveys of all United Kingdom adult intensive care units in 2007/8 and 2010 to assess practice with regard to intensive insulin therapy for glycaemic control in critically ill patients, and to assess the change in practice following publications in 2008 and 2009 that challenged the evidence for this therapy. Of 243 units that had a written policy for intensive insulin therapy in 2007/8, 232 (96%) still had a policy in 2010. One hundred and six (46%) units had updated their policy in response to new evidence, whereas 126 (54%) stated that it had remained the same. Where intensive care units had changed their policy, we found a significant increase in target limits and a wider target range. Regional variations in practice were also seen. Across seven regions, the percentage of units where the glycaemic control policy had been updated since 2007/8 varied from nil to 78.9%.
Controversies in the physiological basis of the ‘anaerobic threshold’ and their implications for clinical cardiopulmonary exercise testing
Authors: Hopker J. G. , Jobson S. A. , Pandit J. J.
Published: January 2011

This article reviews the notion of the ‘anaerobic threshold’ in the context of cardiopulmonary exercise testing. Primarily, this is a review of the proposed mechanisms underlying the ventilatory and lactate response to incremental exercise, which is important to the clinical interpretation of an exercise test. Since such tests are often conducted for risk stratification before major surgery, a failure to locate or justify the existence of an anaerobic threshold will have some implications for clinical practice. We also consider alternative endpoints within the exercise response that might be better used to indicate a patient’s capacity to cope with the metabolic demands encountered both during and following major surgery.
An evaluation of underbody forced‐air and resistive heating during hypothermic, on‐pump cardiac surgery*
Authors: Engelen S. , Himpe D. , Borms S. , Berghmans J. , Van Cauwelaert P. , Dalton J. E. , Sessler D. I.
Published: January 2011

We conducted a randomised controlled trial to compare the efficacy of underbody forced‐air warming (Arizant Healthcare Inc, Eden Prairie, MN, USA) with an underbody resistive heating mattress (Inditherm Patient Warming System, Rotherham, UK) and passive insulation in 129 patients having hypothermic cardiac surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass. Patients were separated from cardiopulmonary bypass at a core temperature of 35 °C and external warming continued until the end of surgery. Before cardiopulmonary bypass, the temperature‐vs‐time slopes were significantly greater in both active warming groups than in the passive insulation group (p < 0.001 for each). However, the slopes of forced‐air and resistive warming did not differ (p = 0.55). After cardiopulmonary bypass, the rate of rewarming was significantly greater with forced‐air than with resistive warming or passive insulation (p < 0.001 for each), while resistive warming did not differ from passive insulation (p = 0.14). However, absolute temperature differences among the groups were small.
Antibody arrays identify protein‐protein interactions in chronic myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Patel Hetal , Nteliopoulos Georgios , Nikolakopoulou Zacharoula , Jackson Amanda , Gordon Myrtle Y.
Published: January 2011

Multiprotein complex formation with p210BCR‐ABL1 is likely to play a major role in determining cellular abnormalities in chronic myeloid leukaemia (CML). Although many p210BCR‐ABL1 binding partners have been identified, it is likely that many have not. We evaluated the use of co‐immunoprecipitation and antibody arrays and found that this approach is capable of identifying new p210BCR‐ABL1 binding partners, and may contribute to the search for new therapeutic targets in CML.
Intravenous immunoglobulin attenuates airway hyperresponsiveness in a murine model of allergic asthma
Authors: Kaufman G. N. , Massoud A. H. , Audusseau S. , Banville‐Langelier A.‐A. , Wang Y. , Guay J. , Garellek J. A. , Mourad W. , Piccirillo C. A. , McCusker C. , Mazer B. D.
Published: January 2011

Background
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) has potent anti‐inflammatory and immune‐modulating properties. IVIG has been utilized as a steroid‐sparing agent in severe asthma, but the results of clinical trials have been conflicting.

Objective
To determine whether IVIG is able to attenuate bronchial reactivity, pulmonary inflammation and T cell function using a murine model of allergic airways disease.

Methods
BALB/c or C57BL/6 mice were sensitized to ovalbumin (OVA) or a phosphate‐buffered saline control using local nasal sensitization, and then received five intranasal challenges on days 28–32 before sacrifice. Mice were treated intraperitoneally with either IVIG (1–2 g/kg) or equivalent human serum albumin 24 h before the first OVA challenge. Bronchial reactivity to methacholine was examined using the FlexiVent small animal ventilator. We evaluated pulmonary histology, mRNA from lung digests for T‐helper type 2 (Th2)‐related genes and bronchoalveolar lavage for cell counts and cytokines. Splenocytes were utilized to study OVA‐induced cell proliferation, cytokine production and dendritic cell maturation.

Results
IVIG markedly attenuated the perivascular and peribronchial pulmonary inflammation, and decreased bronchial hyperresponsiveness to methacholine. IVIG treatment of splenocytes from sensitized animals diminished cellular proliferation to OVA, whereas IVIG treatment in vivo markedly attenuated OVA‐driven splenocyte proliferation. This is accompanied by diminished IL‐13 and TNF‐α levels in splenocyte culture, decreased expression of Jagged‐1, increased Delta‐4 and decreased GATA‐3 mRNA levels, signs that IVIG has suppressed the expected Th2 response that accompanies repeated allergen exposure. Increased regulatory T cells were found in draining pulmonary lymph nodes in IVIG‐treated mice but not in controls.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
IVIG was effective in ameliorating allergic airway disease in our model. IVIG may be a promising adjunct therapy requiring further study for patients with severe asthma.

Cite this as: G. N. Kaufman, A. H. Massoud, S. Audusseau, A.‐A. Banville‐Langelier, Y. Wang, J. Guay, J. A. Garellek, W. Mourad, C. A. Piccirillo, C. McCusker and B. D. Mazer, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 718–728.
Relationship between levels of secreted phospholipase A2 groups IIA and X in the airways and asthma severity
Authors: Hallstrand T. S. , Lai Y. , Ni Z. , Oslund R. C. , Henderson W. R. , Gelb M. H. , Wenzel S. E.
Published: January 2011

Cite this as: T. S. Hallstrand, Y. Lai, Z. Ni, R. C. Oslund, W. R. Henderson Jr, M. H. Gelb and S. E. Wenzel, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 801–810.

Background
Secreted phospholipase A2 (sPLA2) may be important mediators of asthma, but the specific sPLA2s involved in asthma are not known.

Objective
To evaluate sPLA2 group IIA, V, and X proteins (sPLA2‐IIA, sPLA2‐V, and sPLA2‐X) in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid, BAL cells, and airway epithelial cells of subjects with and without asthma, and examine the relationship between the levels of specific sPLA2 enzymes and airway inflammation, asthma severity, and lung function.

Methods
The expression of sPLA2‐IIA, sPLA2‐V, and sPLA2‐X in BAL cells and epithelial brushings was assessed by qPCR. The levels of these sPLA2 proteins and sPLA2 activity with and without group II and group X‐specific inhibitors were measured in BAL fluid from 18 controls and 39 asthmatics.

Results
The airway epithelium expressed sPLA2‐X at higher levels than either sPLA2‐IIA or sPLA2‐V, whereas BAL cells expressed sPLA2‐IIA and sPLA2‐X at similar levels. The majority of sPLA2 activity in BAL fluid was attributed to either sPLA2‐IIA or sPLA2‐X. After 10‐fold concentration of BAL fluid, the levels of sPLA2‐X normalized to total protein were increased in asthma and were associated with lung function, the concentration of induced sputum neutrophils, and prostaglandin E2. The levels of sPLA2‐IIA were elevated in asthma when normalized to total protein, but were not related to lung function, markers of airway inflammation or eicosanoid formation.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
These data indicate that sPLA2‐IIA and sPLA2‐X are the major sPLA2s in human airways, and suggest a link between the levels of sPLA2‐X in the airways and several features of asthma.
Effects of the cyclin‐dependent kinase inhibitor R‐roscovitine on eosinophil survival and clearance
Authors: Farahi N. , Uller L. , Juss J. K. , Langton A. J. , Cowburn A. S. , Gibson A. , Foster M. R. , Farrow S. N. , Marco‐Casanova P. , Sobolewski A. , Condliffe A. M. , Chilvers E. R.
Published: January 2011

Background
Eosinophils are pro‐inflammatory cells implicated in the pathogenesis of asthma and atopy. Apoptosis has been proposed as a potential mechanism underlying the resolution of eosinophilic inflammation and studies have indicated the ability of interventions that induce human eosinophil apoptosis to promote the resolution of eosinophilic inflammation. Recently, the cyclin‐dependent kinase (CDK) inhibitor R‐roscovitine was shown to enhance neutrophil apoptosis and promote the resolution of neutrophilic inflammation.

Objective
The purpose of this study was to examine the expression of CDKs in human blood eosinophils, the effects of R‐roscovitine on eosinophil survival in vitro and whether R‐roscovitine could influence eosinophilic lung inflammation in vivo.

Methods
Eosinophils were isolated from human peripheral blood and the effects of R‐roscovitine on apoptosis, degranulation and phagocytic uptake examined in vitro. The effects of R‐roscovitine on eosinophilic lung inflammation in vivo were also assessed using an ovalbumin mouse model.

Results
Our data demonstrate that human eosinophils express five known targets for R‐roscovitine: CDK1, ‐2, ‐5, ‐7 and ‐9. R‐roscovitine induced eosinophil apoptosis in a time‐ and concentration‐dependent manner but also accelerated transition to secondary necrosis as assessed by microscopy, flow cytometry and caspase activation. In addition, we show that R‐roscovitine can override the anti‐apoptotic signals of GM‐CSF and IL‐5. We report that the pro‐apoptotic effect of R‐roscovitine is associated with suppression of Mcl‐1L expression and that this compound enhanced phagocytic clearance of eosinophils by macrophages. Finally, we show that R‐roscovitine induces apoptosis in murine peripheral blood and spleen‐derived eosinophils; despite this, R‐roscovitine did not modulate the tissue and lumen eosinophilia characteristic of the ovalbumin mouse model of airway eosinophilia.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance
These data demonstrate that R‐roscovitine is capable of inducing rapid apoptosis and secondary necrosis in eosinophils but does not affect the onset or improve the resolution of eosinophilic airway inflammation in vivo.

Cite this as: N. Farahi, L. Uller, J. K. Juss, A. J. Langton, A. S. Cowburn, A. Gibson, M. R. Foster, S. N. Farrow, P. Marco‐ Casanova, A. Sobolewski, A. M. Condliffe and E. R. Chilvers, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 673–687.
Skin‐homing CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells exert Th2‐like function after staphylococcal superantigen stimulation in atopic dermatitis patients
Authors: Lin Y.‐T. , Wang C.‐T. , Chao P.‐S. , Lee J.‐H. , Wang L.‐C. , Yu H.‐H. , Yang Y.‐H. , Chiang B.‐L.
Published: January 2011

Cite this as: Y.‐T. Lin, C.‐T. Wang, P.‐S. Chao, J.‐H. Lee, L.‐C. Wang, H.‐H. Yu, Y.‐H. Yang and B.‐L. Chiang, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 516–525.

Background
The effect of staphylococcal superantigens (SsAgs) on cutaneous lymphocyte‐associated antigen (CLA)+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells of atopic dermatitis (AD) patients is unknown.

Objective
To compare the effects of SsAgs on the ratio, function, and apoptosis of CCR6+ subtype and CCR6− subtype of CLA+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells among AD patients, asthma/allergic rhinitis (AR) patients without AD, and healthy subjects.

Methods
Using immunofluorescence staining followed by flow cytometric analysis, we analysed peripheral blood mononuclear cells cultured with or without staphylococcal enterotoxin B (SEB) stimulation in 20 AD patients, 20 asthma/AR patients without AD, and 20 healthy subjects.

Results
SEB decreased CCR6+/CCR6− ratio in CLA+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells from AD patients and increased CCR6+/CCR6− ratio in those from healthy subjects. SEB induced the production of type 2 T helper cell (Th2) cytokine interleukin (IL)‐5 in CCR6− subtype and anti‐inflammatory cytokine IL‐10 in CCR6+ subtype of CLA+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells. CLA+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells from AD patients produced more IL‐5 and less IL‐10 after SEB stimulation than those from healthy subjects. CCR6− subtype of CLA+ CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells from AD patients and CCR6+ subtype of those cells from healthy subjects were more resistant to SEB‐induced caspase‐3 activation than the other subtype and those from other subjects.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
Despite a phenotype of regulatory T cells, skin‐homing CD4+ Foxp3+ T cells of AD patients exert effector Th2‐like function after SsAgs stimulation, which may aggravate allergic skin inflammation.
Large performance variation does not affect outcome in the Finnish cervical cancer screening programme
Authors: Lönnberg S. , Nieminen P. , Kotaniemi‐Talonen L. , Kujari H. , Melkko J. , Granroth G. , Vornanen M. , Pietiläinen T. , Arola J. , Tarkkanen J. , Luostarinen T. , Anttila A.
Published: January 2011

S. Lönnberg, P. Nieminen, L. Kotaniemi‐Talonen, H. Kujari, J. Melkko, G. Granroth, M. Vornanen, T. Pietiläinen, J. Arola, J. Tarkkanen, T. Luostarinen and A. Anttila

Large performance variation does not affect outcome in the Finnish cervical cancer screening programme

Objective:  Cytology screening for prevention of cervical cancer can reduce incidence and mortality by more than 80% in settings with good organization and rigorous quality control. Audit studies are essential for reaching and maintaining a high quality of screening. The aim of this study was to evaluate variation in performance indicators by screening laboratory and assess the impact on the effectiveness of screening as indicated by cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 3 and above (CIN3+) rates after a negative screen.

Methods:  Seven cytology screening laboratories operating during 1990–1999 with a total of 953 610 screening tests performed were included in the study. By linking screening and cancer register files, all cases of CIN3+ diagnosed in the screened population were identified. For 395 CIN3+ cases with a preceding negative screen and 787 controls, a re‐evaluation of smears was undertaken to uncover false negative screening tests. Performance parameters and rates of CIN3+ after a negative screen were analysed for interlaboratory heterogeneity.

Results:  The rates of follow‐up recommendations and referrals varied by up to 3.6‐ (2.8–10.2%) and 4.0‐fold (0.03–0.12%), respectively. CIN1, CIN2 and CIN3+ screen detection rates differed by up to 8.5‐ (0.02–0.17%), 5.4‐ (0.05–0.25%) and 3.3‐fold (0.05–0.18%). False negative rates determined by re‐evaluation showed up to 2.1‐fold differences (29–62%). Rates of CIN3+ after a negative screen (0.023–0.048%) and as a proportion of total CIN3+ (15–31%) in the screened population were low and did not vary significantly.

Conclusions:  There were large variations in the sensitivity–specificity trade‐off between laboratories, reflected in all performance indicators as well as in the test validity estimates of the re‐evaluation phase, but not in screening effectiveness. Even though performance variations do not always have an impact on the effectiveness of screening, they lead to variations in cost, treatment and psychological burden, and should be addressed.
Increased expression of hepatoma‐derived growth factor correlates with poor prognosis in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Wang Shuang , Fang Weiyi
Published: January 2011

Wang S & Fang W (2011) Histopathology58, 217–224 Increased expression of hepatoma‐derived growth factor correlates with poor prognosis in human nasopharyngeal carcinoma

Aims:  To examine the correlation between hepatoma‐derived growth factor (HDGF) expression and clinicopathological data in nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC), including patient survival.

Methods and results:  Using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and Western blot, mRNA and protein expression of HDGF was detected in normal nasopharyngeal tissues, NPC tissues and cell lines. HDGF levels were determined further by an immunohistochemical analysis in a retrospective series consisting of 160 primary NPC tissues and 71 non‐cancerous nasopharynx tissues. Overexpressed mRNA and HDGF protein was present in NPC. By immunohistochemical analysis, we found that 53.8% (86 of 160) and 19.4% (32 of 160) of NPC biopsy specimens showed higher HDGF expression of the nucleus and cytoplasm, respectively. Statistical analysis showed that the higher expression of nuclear HDGF was associated significantly with T stage (P = 0.005) and clinical stage (P = 0.038), but there was no association with lymph node (P = 0.059) or distant metastasis (P = 0.563). Patients with increased HDGF expression levels had poorer overall survival rates than those with low expression of HDGF levels (P = 0.006). Multivariate analysis revealed that high expression of nuclear HDGF was an independent prognostic indicator of patient survival.

Conclusions:  Increased nuclear expression of HDGF is a potential unfavourable prognostic factor for patients with NPC.
Cancerization of cutaneous flap reconstruction for oral squamous cell carcinoma: report of three cases studied with the mtDNA D‐loop sequence analysis
Authors: Foschini Maria P , Morandi Luca , Marchetti Claudio , Cocchi Roberto , Eusebi Leonardo H , Farnedi Anna , Badiali Giovanni , Gissi Davide B , Pennesi Maria G , Montebugnoli Lucio
Published: January 2011

Foschini M P, Morandi L, Marchetti C, Cocchi R, Eusebi L H, Farnedi A, Badiali G, Gissi D B, Pennesi M G & Montebugnoli L (2011) Histopathology58, 361–367 Cancerization of cutaneous flap reconstruction for oral squamous cell carcinoma: report of three cases studied with the mtDNA D‐loop sequence analysis

Aims:  Tissue defects, resulting from surgical resection of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC), are reconstructed routinely with skin grafts. OSCC arising from the grafted skin has been described; however, it is still unclear whether primary and second tumours have a common clonal origin. The aim of this study was to evaluate the clonal relationship between the primary OSCC and secondary neoplastic changes appearing in the skin graft in three patients, by screening the mitochondrial DNA D‐loop region (mtDNA).

Methods and results:  In all three cases, the neoplastic lesions arising in the skin graft showed a clonal relationship with the previous OSCC and, on the basis of the results obtained by mtDNA analysis, could be considered to be a recurrence of the primary OSCC rather than a second primary OSCC.

Conclusions:  Starting from a field of genetically altered cells in the oral mucosa, the spread of the clonal cell population to the cutaneous flap might be stimulated by cytokines produced by the grafted skin. More studies are needed to evaluate the molecular relationship between primary and second OSCC to identify patients at higher risk of developing a second tumour in the skin graft.
Quality of thermoplasticized and single point root fillings assessed by micro‐computed tomography
Authors: Somma F. , Cretella G. , Carotenuto M. , Pecci R. , Bedini R. , De Biasi M. , Angerame D.
Published: January 2011

Somma F, Cretella G, Carotenuto M, Pecci R, Bedini R, De Biasi M, Angerame D. Quality of thermoplasticized and single point root fillings assessed by micro‐computed tomography. International Endodontic Journal

Aim  To evaluate ex vivo the quality of root fillings completed by two thermoplasticized gutta‐percha techniques (Thermafil and System B) and a cold gutta‐percha technique (single point) by μCT analysis.

Methodology  A total of 30 freshly extracted human single‐rooted permanent teeth were selected. Root canals were prepared with ProTaper Universal instruments and then randomly divided into three groups (n = 10) depending on the filling technique. In group 1, canals were filled with a single‐point technique; group 2 was filled with Thermafil; in group 3 System B was used. In group 1 and group 3, the root filling was performed using ProTaper Universal gutta‐percha points, in group 2 Thermafil obturators were used; AH‐Plus sealer was used in all groups. Assessment of the root filling was carried out by μCT, using a desktop X‐ray micro focus CT scanner. Percentage of root canal filling materials and voids was calculated for each specimen. Data were statistically analysed using Kruskal–Wallis test (P < 0.05).

Results  Mean percentages of filling materials were 98.379 ± 1.204 in the single‐point group, 99.023 ± 1.457 in Thermafil group, and 98.167 ± 3.432 in System B group. No statistically significant difference was found amongst the groups.

Conclusion  All techniques produced comparable results in terms of percentage of filling and void distribution.
Impact of adhesive surface and volume of luting resin on fracture resistance of root filled teeth
Authors: Krastl G. , Gugger J. , Deyhle H. , Zitzmann N. U. , Weiger R. , Müller B.
Published: January 2011

Krastl G, Gugger J, Deyhle H, Zitzmann NU, Weiger R, Müller B. Impact of adhesive surface and volume of luting resin on fracture resistance of root filled teeth. International Endodontic Journal, 44, 432–439, 2011.

Aim  To investigate the correlation between geometric parameters of severely compromised root filled (RCT) pre‐molar teeth with irregular root canals and their fracture resistance. The null hypothesis tested was that the fracture resistance of root filled teeth is not influenced by: (i) the adhesive surface of the post‐space preparation (APS), (ii) the coronal tooth surface (AA), (iii) the amount of resin cement (VC) and (iv) the Young’s modulus of the specimens.

Methodology  A total of 48 noncarious human pre‐molar teeth with irregular root canals were decoronated, root filled and adhesively restored with post‐retained direct composite crowns. After thermomechanical loading (1 200 000×, 5–50° C), static load was applied until failure. The geometric parameters of the tooth were evaluated by microcomputed tomography (μCT) using impressions taken after post‐space preparation. Linear regression analyses were performed to correlate the geometric parameters of the specimens with their fracture resistance.

Results  The amount of resin cement (VC) comprised up to 88% of the entire post‐space (mean 67%) and had no impact on the maximal load (P = 0.88). The latter was significantly influenced by post‐space preparation (P = 0.003).

Conclusions  Amongst the geometric parameters tested, the surface area in the root canal had the greatest impact on fracture resistance of root filled pre‐molars restored with posts and composite crowns, whilst the fit of the post was less important.
Patient safety culture: an Italian experience
Authors: Bagnasco Annamaria , Tibaldi Laura , Chirone Paola , Chiaranda Clara , Panzone Maria Stella , Tangolo Domenico , Aleo Giuseppe , Lazzarino Luciana , Sasso Loredana
Published: January 2011

Aims.  To understand what level of awareness health professionals working in a hospital of Northern Italy had of the patient safety culture by using the Italian version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire and also validate its use in this setting.

Background.  The Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire was developed by the Agency for Health Research and Quality in 2008 and validated by several studies. Therefore, we decided to test the Italian version of this tool to see if it could be used effectively to measure and appraise patient safety culture also in Italy.

Design.  Survey.

Methods.  To check the validity of the questionnaire, we applied the continued comparison and the global data treatment methods.

Results.  Of the 1008 questionnaires we administered, 724 (71%) were returned. The majority of the questions were answered (mean 98, SD 3·4%). From a Chi‐square test on the consistency of the answers, we found that six of the 12 perspectives we explored had a high level of significance, whereas in the other six, the differences in the answers were just casual.

Conclusions.  The Italian version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture questionnaire allowed us to assess health professionals’ awareness of patient safety culture and thus validate the effectiveness of this tool.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings of our survey could be useful to design an objective tool that would allow the five health professional groups involved in the study (directors/coordinators, physicians, nurses/midwives, physiotherapists and technicians) gain a better knowledge of the patient safety culture and thus improve the quality of clinical practice.
Knowledge of and attitude to contraception among migrant woman workers in mainland China
Authors: Ip Wan‐Yim , Chan Man‐Yu , Chan Dominic SK , Chan Carmen WH
Published: January 2011

Aims.  The aims of this paper were to determine the level of knowledge and attitude of contraception and their relationships among Chinese migrant woman workers.

Background.  Studies on psychosocial variables that lead to reproductive health behaviours among Chinese migrant woman workers in China remain limited.

Design.  A cross‐sectional, descriptive and correlational design.

Participants.  One hundred and ninety young woman workers of a factory in Guangdong, a representative city of factory base in mainland China, voluntarily participated in the study with a response rate of 63%.

Methods.  Data were collected through self‐administered questionnaires consisting of a socio‐demographic sheet, the Contraceptive Knowledge Scale and the Contraceptive Attitude Scale. Pearson product moment correlation coefficient test was employed to examine the relationships between the contraceptive knowledge and attitude, with level of significance set at p < 0·05.

Results.  The Chinese migrant woman workers demonstrated lower contraceptive knowledge and less favourable contraceptive attitude compared with previous studies of adolescents in Taiwan and women seeking abortion in Hong Kong. Although it was a weak correlation, contraceptive knowledge was statistically associated with contraceptive attitudes among the respondents (r = 0·276, p < 0·001). Respondents’ age, education level and working experience were significantly positively correlated with the contraceptive knowledge.

Conclusions.  Young Chinese migrant workers reported in the current study are found to be at higher sexual risk, when compared to the adolescents in Taiwan and Hong Kong women seeking abortion. Early educational intervention for reproductive health in particular contraception and its usage to these young women is indicated.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Migrant woman workers in mainland demonstrated poor knowledge and unfavourable attitudes towards contraception, especially for the younger, single and less educated group. Greater effort is necessary to promote young migrant women’s knowledge and attitude towards contraception and sexual health.
What defines mast seeding? Spatio‐temporal patterns of cone production by whitebark pine
Authors: Crone Elizabeth E. , McIntire Eliot J. B. , Brodie Jedediah
Published: January 2011

1. Synchronous, episodic mast seeding is common in plant populations, and is thought to increase plant fitness through economies of scale, such as satiating seed predators, attracting seed dispersers and enhancing pollination success. Although mast seeding is easy to conceptualize, it has been quantified using a number of different metrics that reflect different features of pulsed reproduction.

2. We quantified spatio‐temporal patterns of mast seeding across 36 populations of a high‐elevation tree, Pinus albicaulis, for which perceived declines in cone production are a conservation concern. We tested for trends in mean cone production through space and time, and documented patterns of mast seeding using six different metrics: coefficient of variation, lag‐1 autocorrelation, synchrony, average cone production by individual trees, and the frequency of high cone crops on absolute and relative scales.

3. Overall, we did not detect increasing or decreasing trends in cone production during our study period. Average cone production tended to increase from north‐east to south‐west. Population‐level cone production tended to alternate between high and low years, but overall the coefficient of variation was low for a mast seeding species.

4. Metrics of mast seeding were not concordant across populations. The first principal component describing mast metrics separated populations with frequent high cone crops from those with high coefficients of variation. However, the second principle component was at least somewhat correlated with all metrics of masting, suggesting some ability to separate ‘masting’ from ‘non‐masting’ populations.

5. In P. albicaulis, spatial variation in mast seeding could reflect differences in site productivity, differences in the importance of satiating generalist seed consumers versus attracting specialist seed dispersers, or recent invasion by an introduced pathogen.

6. Synthesis. Our research reinforces the conclusion that populations form a continuum of strategies between ‘masting’ versus ‘non‐masting’ extremes. However, because different features of masting do not covary in space, understanding where populations fall along this continuum will depend on the features that are most important for mast seeding in a particular context.
How should we train consultant appraisers? Description and evaluation of a pilot training model developed in Scotland
Authors: Wakeling Judy , Staples Ian , Cameron Niall
Published: January 2011

Objectives  This paper outlines a model developed by NHS Education for Scotland to pilot consultant appraiser training. The training was aimed at both new/inexperienced appraisers and experienced appraisers. A Course for New/Inexperienced Appraisers was held over 2 days and the Experienced Course over 1 day. Both are described, as is an initial tutor induction day designed to recruit consultant tutors who could contribute to delivering the courses. A thorough qualitative evaluation of the courses was undertaken and this is reported. The paper also discusses the desirability and implications of rolling out the pilot on a wider scale.

Method  A qualitative evaluation design using interviews to collect feedback from participants who had attended all three courses – the Induction event, the Inexperienced Appraiser Course and the Experienced Appraiser Course – was employed. Telephone interviews were transcribed and analysed using framework analysis and aided by NVivo 7.

Results  The response of those interviewed for this evaluation of the three courses was very positive. The content, organization, skills of the tutors and usefulness of the courses were commended. Suggested improvements were relatively minor and included: introducing more material on the requirements of revalidation, more small group discussions and making the course more secondary care‐orientated. However, it was recognized that with the requirements for ‘enhanced’ appraisal and revalidation still uncertain, this created difficulties and the course would evolve to take account of further developments.

Conclusions  The training piloted represents an effective way to train consultants in appraisal skills. Interviewees were supportive of the pilot being continued: either nationally or cascaded down locally. Exactly what model is achievable and desirable will depend on the number of appraisers to be trained and the availability of resources to support ‘enhanced’ appraisal in secondary care.
Women in medium secure care: tracking treatment progress for changes in risk profiles and treatment engagement
Authors: LONG C. G. , DOLLEY O. , HOLLIN C. R.
Published: January 2011

Accessible summary

Progress in treatment for women in medium secure conditions is dependent on reducing patients risk to self and others.

A method of managing and reducing risk behaviours is described.

In this study risk reduction has been paralleled by increased engagement in treatment activities.

The implications for treatment and further research are discussed.

The treatment and risk management programmes in a women's medium secure service are described. Changes in risk profiles and its relationship to treatment engagement are examined in a cohort of women during their stay in a medium secure service. Findings show that clinically significant reductions in risk behaviours were paralleled by increases in treatment engagement. The clinical healthcare implications of these findings are discussed along with the need for further research.
A new ATP‐binding cassette protein is involved in intracellular haem trafficking in Leishmania
Authors: Campos‐Salinas Jenny , Cabello‐Donayre María , García‐Hernández Raquel , Pérez‐Victoria Ignacio , Castanys Santiago , Gamarro Francisco , Pérez‐Victoria José M.
Published: January 2011

The characterization of LABCG5, a new intracellular ATP‐binding cassette protein in Leishmania donovani, is described. Unlike other ABCG half‐transporters, LABCG5 is not involved in either drug resistance or phospholipid efflux. However, we provide evidence suggesting that this protein is involved in intracellular haem trafficking. Thus, downregulation of LABCG5 function produced upon overexpression of an inactive version of the protein caused a dramatic growth arrest unless a haemin supplement was added or the mutated gene was eliminated. Supplementation with haemoglobin, an upstream metabolite normally sufficient to meet parasite haem requirements, was unable to rescue the growth defect phenotype. Haemoglobin endocytosis was not hampered in dominant‐negative parasites and neither was haem uptake, a process that we show here to be dependent on a specific transporter. In contrast, LABCG5 function was required for the correct intracellular trafficking of haemoglobin‐bound porphyrins to the mitochondria, not affecting the routing of free haem. Finally, LABCG5 binds haem through hydrophobic and electrostatic interactions. Altogether, these data suggest that LABCG5 is involved in the salvage of the haem released after the breakdown of internalized haemoglobin. As Leishmania is auxotrophic for haem, the pharmacological targeting of this route could represent a novel approach to control fatal visceral leishmaniasis.
Anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of infantile eczema: randomised‐controlled trial results
Authors: Mpairwe Harriet , Webb Emily L. , Muhangi Lawrence , Ndibazza Juliet , Akishule Denise , Nampijja Margaret , Ngom‐wegi Sophy , Tumusime Josephine , Jones Frances M. , Fitzsimmons Colin , Dunne David W. , Muwanga Moses , Rodrigues Laura C. , Elliott Alison M.
Published: January 2011

To cite this article: Mpairwe H, Webb EL, Muhangi L, Ndibazza J, Akishule D, Nampijja M, Ngom‐wegi S, Tumusime J, Jones FM, Fitzsimmons C, Dunne DW, Muwanga M, Rodrigues LC, Elliott AM. Anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy is associated with increased risk of infantile eczema: randomised‐controlled trial results. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 305–312.

Background:  Allergy is commoner in developed than in developing countries. Chronic worm infections show inverse associations with allergy, and prenatal exposures may be critical to allergy risk.

Objective:  To determine whether anthelminthic treatment during pregnancy increases the risk of allergy in infancy.

Methods:  A randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial on treatment in pregnancy with albendazole versus placebo and praziquantel versus placebo was conducted in Uganda, with a 2 × 2 factorial design; 2507 women were enrolled; infants’ allergy events were recorded prospectively. The main outcome was doctor‐diagnosed infantile eczema.

Results:  Worms were detected in 68% of women before treatment. Doctor‐diagnosed infantile eczema incidence was 10.4/100 infant years. Maternal albendazole treatment was associated with a significantly increased risk of eczema [Cox HR (95% CI), p: 1.82 (1.26–2.64), 0.002]; this effect was slightly stronger among infants whose mothers had no albendazole‐susceptible worms than among infants whose mothers had such worms, although this difference was not statistically significant. Praziquantel showed no effect overall but was associated with increased risk among infants of mothers with Schistosoma mansoni [2.65 (1.16–6.08), interaction p = 0.02]. In a sample of infants, skin prick test reactivity and allergen‐specific IgE were both associated with doctor‐diagnosed eczema, indicating atopic aetiology. Albendazole was also strongly associated with reported recurrent wheeze [1.58 (1.13–2.22), 0.008]; praziquantel showed no effect.

Conclusions:  The detrimental effects of treatment suggest that exposure to maternal worm infections in utero may protect against eczema and wheeze in infancy. The results for albendazole are also consistent with a direct drug effect. Further studies are required to investigate mechanisms of these effects, possible benefits of worms or worm products in primary prevention of allergy, and the possibility that routine deworming during pregnancy may promote allergic disease in the offspring.
Cloning and functional characterization of a GNA‐like lectin from Chinese Narcissus (Narcissus tazetta var. Chinensis Roem)
Authors: Gao Zhi M. , Zheng Bo , Wang Wen Y. , Li Qiang , Yuan Qi P.
Published: January 2011

A full‐length cDNA encoding Narcissus tazetta lectin (NTL) was isolated from Chinese narcissus (N. tazetta var. Chinensis Roem). The open reading frame (ORF) was 519 bp long and encoded 172 amino acids with a theoretical isoelectric point of 5.27 and a calculated molecular mass of 18.6 kDa. Conserved domain analysis indicated that it possessed three d‐(+)‐mannose‐binding sites, presumed to be similar to those of Galanthus nivalis agglutinin (GNA)‐like lectins. A recombinant (glutathione S‐transferase) GST–NTL fusion protein of around 40 kDa was successfully synthesized in vitro. Lysates of cells expressing this recombinant protein exhibited significant hemagglutinating activity [418 hemagglutinating units (HU)], as did the purified protein (265 HU). Sugar specificity assays suggested that mannose is the only sugar that significantly inhibits this hemagglutinating activity, confirming that NTL is a member of the GNA‐like lectin family. NTL is highly transcribed in flowers, leaves and roots, but less so in scales. However, similar levels of the NTL protein were observed in all four of these organs by western blotting. A fluorescent NTL–GFP (green fluorescent protein) fusion protein was found to be primarily localized in the vacuole of transformed onion epidermal cells, indicating that NTL may be a vacuolar storage protein. This is the first study in which the function of NTL has been examined and provides a considerable body of data concerning its physiological role in Chinese narcissus. The results obtained may be useful in the molecular engineering of plants with enhanced tolerance of biotic and abiotic stresses. Moreover, they may be relevant to medical applications of lectins.
Seed protein amino acid composition of important local grain legumes Lupinus angustifolius L., Lupinus luteus L., Pisum sativum L. and Vicia faba L.
Authors: Schumacher H. , Paulsen H. M. , Gau A. E. , Link W. , Jürgens H. U. , Sass O. , Dieterich R.
Published: January 2011

With 3 figures and 5 tables

Grain legumes are regarded as highly valuable protein source for human and animal nutrition. Legume protein quality is mainly limited by the amino acids (AAs) tryptophan and sulphur AA. Organic farming in particular requires high seed protein quality for livestock feeding, as chemically produced AAs must not be feeded. Breeding attempts to increase contents of limiting AA are required. In the present survey, the AA content of 107 cultivars of important European grain legume species (Lupinus angustifolius, Lupinus luteus, Pisum sativum and Vicia faba) was analysed. AA contents were related to the requirements of growing pigs and human nutrition. Feed quality could be enhanced by choice of high quality varieties according to ideal protein concepts. For example for sulphur, AA feed quality for pigs could be increased by up to 22% (e.g. for L. angustifolius: ideal protein = 100, sample mean = 59.7, sample maximum = 72.7). Regarding livestock nutrition, ranges of limiting AA never reached the qualities reported for soybean seeds. However, an inclusion of high quality legume lines would reduce the need for other high quality components in feed compositions.
Effect of aging on the perceptions of physical and mental health in an Australian population
Authors: Happell Brenda , Koehn Stefan
Published: January 2011

The aim of this study was to examine the impact of age on the perceptions of mental and physical health in an Australian population. A cross‐sectional study of the Queensland population was conducted via telephone interviews (n = 1165). The Short Form‐12 Health Survey was used to measure the population's perceived physical and mental health and additional demographic information was collected. Groups with participants who were aged 18–24, 25–34, 35–44, 45–54, 55–64, and > 65 years were compared. The results suggested that the participants' perceptions of mental health gradually increased with age, as the 55–64 and > 65 years old age groups scored significantly higher than did the younger age groups. Conversely, the older participants scored significantly lower than the younger participants on the physical health scale. Further research is warranted to consider the factors that might influence the perceptions of mental health across the life span.
Treatment of brain metastases from renal cell carcinoma with sunitinib and radiotherapy: Our experience and review of the literature
Authors: Kusuda Yuji , Miyake Hideaki , Terakawa Tomoaki , Furukawa Junya , Muramaki Mototsugu , Fujisawa Masato
Published: January 2011

The present study reports our experience with five renal cell carcinoma (RCC) patients with brain metastases treated with sunitinib and radiotherapy. All patients had undergone radical nephrectomy. Before treatment with sunitinib, radiotherapy for brain metastases, either by γ‐knife surgery or whole brain radiation, was carried out. After treatment with sunitinib, shrinkage of brain metastases was achieved in all patients with complete response, partial response and stable disease in two, one and two patients, respectively. Although progression of brain metastases occurred in four of the five patients, additional γ‐knife surgery was effective in three patients. Over a 12.5‐month follow up, four patients, including three who maintained their best response, remained alive. The remaining one patient died of disease progression. Despite the observation of several adverse events after treatment with sunitinib, there was no intracerebral hemorrhage in any patient. These findings suggest that sunitinib combined with radiation therapy can be safely carried out in RCC patients with brain metastases and provides a favorable prognosis in these cases. However, considering their frequent progression, it would be important to carry out careful follow up for these patients by focusing on the control of brain metastases.