bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluid Resuscitation Does Not Improve Renal Oxygenation during Hemorrhagic Shock in Rats
Authors: Legrand Matthieu , Mik Egbert G. , Balestra Gianmarco M. , Lutter Rene , Pirracchio Romain , Payen Didier , Ince Can
Published: December 2009

Background

The resuscitation strategy for hemorrhagic shock remains controversial, with the kidney being especially prone to hypoxia.

Methods

The authors used a three-phase hemorrhagic shock model to investigate the effects of fluid resuscitation on renal oxygenation. After a 1-h shock phase, rats were randomized into four groups to receive either normal saline or hypertonic saline targeting a mean arterial pressure (MAP) of either 40 or 80 mmHg. After such resuscitation, rats were transfused with the shed blood. Renal macro- and microcirculation were monitored with cortical and outer-medullary microvascular oxygen pressure, renal oxygen delivery, and renal oxygen consumption measured using oxygen-dependent quenching of phosphorescence.

Results

Hemorrhagic shock was characterized by a drop of aortic blood flow, MAP, renal blood flow, renal oxygen delivery, renal oxygen consumption, and renal microvascular PO2. During the fluid resuscitation phase, normal saline targeting a MAP = 80 mmHg was the sole strategy able to restore aortic blood flow, renal blood flow, and renal oxygen consumption, although without improving renal oxygen delivery. However, none of the strategies using either normal saline or hypertonic saline or targeting a high MAP could restore the renal microvascular Po2. Blood transfusion increased microvascular Po2 but was unable to totally restore renal microvascular oxygenation to baseline values.

Conclusions

This experimental rat study shows that (1) high MAP-directed fluid resuscitation (80 mmHg) does not lead to higher renal microvascular Po2 compared with fluid resuscitation targeted to MAP (40 mmHg); (2) hypertonic saline is not superior to normal saline regarding renal oxygenation; and (3) decreased renal oxygenation persists after blood transfusion.
Isoflurane Postconditioning Protects against Reperfusion Injury by Preventing Mitochondrial Permeability Transition by an Endothelial Nitric Oxide Synthase–dependent Mechanism
Authors: Ge Zhi-Dong , Pravdic Danijel , Bienengraeber Martin , Pratt Phillip F. , Auchampach John A. , Gross Garrett J. , Kersten Judy R. , Warltier David C.
Published: December 2009

Background

The role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in isoflurane postconditioning (IsoPC)-elicited cardioprotection is poorly understood. The authors addressed this issue using eNOS mice.

Methods

In vivo or Langendorff-perfused mouse hearts underwent 30 min of ischemia followed by 2 h of reperfusion in the presence and absence of postconditioning produced with isoflurane 5 min before and 3 min after reperfusion. Ca+-induced mitochondrial permeability transition (MPT) pore opening was assessed in isolated mitochondria. Echocardiography was used to evaluate ventricular function.

Results

Postconditioning with 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 minimum alveolar concentrations of isoflurane decreased infarct size from 56 +/- 10% (n = 10) in control to 48 +/- 10%, 41 +/- 8% (n = 8, P < 0.05), and 38 +/- 10% (n = 8, P < 0.05), respectively, and improved cardiac function in wild-type mice. Improvement in cardiac function by IsoPC was blocked by N-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester (a nonselective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor) administered either before ischemia or at the onset of reperfusion. Mitochondria isolated from postconditioned hearts required significantly higher in vitro Ca+ loading than did controls (78 +/- 29 microm vs. 40 +/- 25 microm CaCl2 per milligram of protein, n = 10, P < 0.05) to open the MPT pore. Hearts from eNOS mice displayed no marked differences in infarct size, cardiac function, and sensitivity of MPT pore to Ca+, compared with wild-type hearts. However, IsoPC failed to alter infarct size, cardiac function, or the amount of Ca+ necessary to open the MPT pore in mitochondria isolated from the eNOS hearts compared with control hearts.

Conclusions

IsoPC protects mouse hearts from reperfusion injury by preventing MPT pore opening in an eNOS-dependent manner. Nitric oxide functions as both a trigger and a mediator of cardioprotection produced by IsoPC.
Sex-specific Mediation of Opioid-induced Hyperalgesia by the Melanocortin-1 Receptor
Authors: Juni Aaron , Cai Minying , Stankova Magda , Waxman Amanda R. , Arout Caroline , Klein Gad , Dahan Albert , Hruby Victor J. , Mogil Jeffrey S. , Kest Benjamin
Published: December 2009

Background

N-Methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonists reverse hyperalgesia during morphine infusion in male mice only. Because the melanocortin-1 receptor can act as a female-specific counterpart to N-methyl-D-aspartate receptors in kappa-opioid analgesic mechanisms, the authors assessed the contribution of melanocortin-1 receptors to the sex-specific mechanisms underlying morphine hyperalgesia.

Methods

The tail-withdrawal test was used to compare the nociceptive responses of male and female C57BL/6J (B6) mice with those of C57BL/6J-Mc(1r(e/e)) mice, spontaneous mutants of the B6 background lacking functional melanocortin-1 receptors, during continuous morphine infusion (1.6 and 40.0 mgkg(-1) . 24 h(-1)). Separate groups of hyperalgesic B6 and outbred CD-1 mice were injected with MK-801 or MSG606, selective N-methyl-D-aspartate and melanocortin-1 receptor antagonists, respectively.

Results

Morphine infusion (40.0 mg . kg(-1) . 24 h(-1)) reduced baseline withdrawal latencies by 45-55% in B6 mice of both sexes, indicating hyperalgesia; this increased nociception was manifest in male e/e mice only. Although MK-801 reversed hyperalgesia in male mice only, increasing latencies by 72%, MSG606 increased latencies by approximately 60% exclusively in females. A lower morphine infusion dose (1.6 mg . kg(-1) . 24 h(-1)) reduced baseline withdrawal latencies by 45-52% in B6 and e/e mice of both sexes, which was reversed by MK-801, but not MSG606, in both male and female B6 mice.

Conclusions

The data indicate the sex-specific mediation of high-dose morphine-induced hyperalgesia by N-methyl-d-aspartate and melanocortin-1 receptors in male and female mice, respectively, suggesting a broader relevance of this known sexual dimorphism. The data further indicate that the neural substrates contributing to hyperalgesia are morphine dose-dependent.
Antagonism of Low Degrees of Atracurium-induced Neuromuscular Blockade: Dose-Effect Relationship for Neostigmine
Authors: Fuchs-Buder Thomas , Meistelman Claude , Alla François , Grandjean Arnaud , Wuthrich Yann , Donati François
Published: December 2009

Background

Low degrees of residual paralysis (i.e., a train-of-four [TOF] ratio > 0.4) are relatively frequent, difficult to detect, and still potentially harmful. Unfortunately, the appropriate dose of anticholinesterase for this situation has not been determined. This may be of clinical interest because a high dose of neostigmine given at a shallow level of neuromuscular block may produce neuromuscular weakness. The purpose of this study was to investigate the dose-effect relationship of neostigmine to antagonize residual paralysis corresponding to a TOF ratio of 0.4 and 0.6.

Methods

Recovery after 10, 20, 30 microg/kg neostigmine or placebo given at either 0.4 or 0.6 TOF ratio was assessed by acceleromyography in 120 patients undergoing intravenous anesthesia. Time to a 0.9 and 1.0 TOF ratio was measured, and the probability of successful reversal within 10 min after the respective neostigmine doses was calculated. In addition, the dose of neostigmine needed to achieve the recovery targets in 5 or 10 min was also determined.

Results

When given at a TOF ratio of either 0.4 or 0.6, time to 0.9 and 1.0 TOF ratio was significantly shorter with any dose of neostigmine than without. The probability of successful reversal after 20 microg/kg neostigmine was 100% when a TOF ratio of 0.9 was the target; for a TOF ratio of 1.0, the probability was 93% and 67%, dependent on whether the dose of neostigmine was given at TOF ratio of 0.6 or 0.4, respectively. With a dose of 30 microg/kg, a TOF ratio of 1.0 is expected to be reached within approximately 5 min. Low doses of neostigmine are required to reach a TOF ratio of 0.9 or to accept an interval of 10 min.

Conclusion

Reduced doses (10-30 microg/kg) of neostigmine are effective in antagonizing shallow atracurium block. For successful reversal within 10 min, as little as 20 microg/kg neostigmine may be sufficient. These dose recommendations are specific for atracurium and an intravenous anesthetic background.
Improving Efficiency and Patient Satisfaction in a Tertiary Teaching Hospital Preoperative Clinic
Authors: Harnett Miriam J. P. , Correll Darin J. , Hurwitz Shelley , Bader Angela M. , Hepner David L.
Published: December 2009

Background

Clinical and organizational aspects of the preoperative visit can have a significant impact on patient satisfaction. The authors' previous work demonstrated that communication of information from the clinician to the patient was found to be the most positively rated component, whereas organizational issues, particularly waiting time, were the most negative. This study compares two yearly cycles of patient satisfaction surveys to assess the process and impact of implementation of changes.

Methods

The authors distributed a one-page questionnaire, consisting of elements evaluating satisfaction with clinical providers and with organizational aspects of the visit, to patients in their preoperative clinic during two different time periods. Fourteen different questions had five Likert scale options ranging from excellent to poor. Changes implemented included clerical, scheduling, and clinical changes.

Results

The overall collection rate of completed questionnaires was 79%. The scores for each question in Cycle 2 were higher for all questions, with 3 of 14 reaching statistical significance (P < 0.01). These questions related to the explanation of the Preoperative Assessment Clinic by the surgeon's office, courtesy and efficiency of the clinic staff, and satisfaction with waiting time. Average waiting time was reduced from 92 to 41 min (P < or = 0.0001).

Conclusion

Analysis of patient flow and clinic operations led to alterations in clinic processes. Alterations included education of clinic and surgical office staff to improve customer service, and implementation of changes in provider roles. These modifications resulted in an improvement in patient satisfaction and a reduction in waiting time with minimal economic impact.
Surgery as a Teachable Moment for Smoking Cessation
Authors: Shi Yu , Warner David O.
Published: December 2009

Background

A "teachable moment" is an event that motivates spontaneous behavior change. Some evidence suggests that major surgery for a smoking-related illness can serve as a teachable moment for smoking cessation. This study tested the hypotheses that surgery increases the likelihood of smoking cessation and that cessation is more likely after major surgical procedures compared with outpatient surgery.

Methods

Secondary analyses were performed of longitudinal biennial survey data (1992-2004) from the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study of U.S. adults older than 50 yr, determining the relationship between the incidence of smoking cessation and the occurrence of surgery.

Results

Five thousand four hundred ninety-eight individuals reported current smoking at enrollment, and 2,444 of them (44.5%) quit smoking during the period of examination. The incidence of quitting in smokers undergoing major surgery was 20.6/100 person-years of follow-up and 10.2/100 person-years in those undergoing outpatient surgery. In a multivariate negative binomial regression model, the incidence rate ratio of quitting associated with major surgery was 2.02 (95% CI: 1.67-2.44) and that of those associated with outpatient surgery was 1.28 (95% CI: 1.09-1.50). Estimates derived from national surgical utilization data show that approximately 8% of all quit events in the United States annually can be attributed to the surgical procedures analyzed.

Conclusions

Undergoing surgery is associated with an increased likelihood of smoking cessation in the older U.S. population. Cessation is more likely in association with major procedures compared with outpatient surgery. These data support the concept that surgery is a teachable moment for smoking cessation.
Screening Detects a High Proportion of Celiac Disease in Young HLA‐genotyped Children
Authors: Björck Sara , Brundin Charlotte , Lörinc Ester , Lynch Kristian F , Agardh Daniel
Published: December 2009

Background and Aims:

Celiac disease is associated with tissue transglutaminase autoantibodies (tTGAb) and the human leukocyte antigen (HLA)–risk alleles DQB1*02 and DQB1*0302. The aim was to estimate the proportion of undiagnosed celiac disease in children with HLA risk at 3 years of age.

Patients and Methods:

From a population‐based HLA‐DQ screening study of newborns born between June 2001 and August 2004 in the southern part of Sweden, 6206 children with HLA‐risk alleles were identified and asked to participate at a mean 3.3 ± 0.4 years of age. As controls, 7654 children with HLA‐nonrisk alleles were asked to participate. In all, 1620 (26.1%) children with HLA risk and 1815 (23.7%) controls were screened for tTGAb using radioligand‐binding assays. Celiac disease was established by intestinal biopsy in children with a confirmed positive tTGAb test.

Results:

Twenty‐three children reported already having clinically diagnosed celiac disease and did not participate further. In children with HLA‐risk genotypes, 73 of 1620 (4.5%, 95% CI 3.5%–5.5%) were tTGAb‐positive compared with none of 1815 from the controls (P < 0.0001). Seventy‐one children underwent biopsy (1 refused biopsy and 1 biopsy failed), of whom 56 of 1618 (3.5%, 95% CI 2.6%–4.4%) had damaged intestinal mucosa classified as celiac disease. The ratio between clinically and screening detected celiac disease in this study was 1:2.4 (23:56).

Conclusions:

The proportion of clinically undetected celiac disease may be particularly high among 3‐year‐old children with HLA‐DQB1*02 and DQB1*0302 in Sweden, where these 2 HLA‐risk alleles frequently occur.
Serum and Intestinal Celiac Disease–associated Antibodies in Children With Celiac Disease Younger Than 2 Years of Age
Authors: Maglio Mariantonia , Tosco Antonella , Paparo Francesco , Auricchio Renata , Granata Viviana , Colicchio Barbara , Indolfi Viviana , Miele Erasmo , Troncone Riccardo
Published: December 2009

Objectives:

In children younger than 2 years of age, a diagnosis of celiac disease (CD) is difficult to make because anti‐endomysium (anti‐EMA)/anti‐tissue transglutaminase 2 (anti‐TG2) antibodies are less sensitive than in older children. The aim of our study was to evaluate how many children younger than 2 years of age and diagnosed with CD, were negative for serum anti‐TG2 antibodies and to test the hypothesis that in these patients, TG2‐specific IgA deposits could instead be present at mucosal level.

Patients and Methods:

A total of 104 children younger than 2 years of age and 179 children older than 2 years, all of whom had been diagnosed with CD, were investigated for serum CD‐associated antibodies (anti‐gliadin [AGA] IgA and IgG, EMA‐IgA, anti‐TG2–IgA). The presence of intestinal anti‐TG2 extracellular IgA deposits was searched by using double immunofluorescence in 56 of the patients younger than 2 years of age and in 40 of those who were older than 2 years.

Results:

In children with CD who were younger than 2 years of age, high levels of AGA‐IgA were found in 93/104 (89%) and 98/104 (94%) were found of have high levels of AGA‐IgG. In children older than the age of 2 years with CD, 120/179 (67%) had high levels of AGA‐IgA and 151/179 (84%) had high levels of AGA‐IgG. Serum EMA were present in 92/104 (88%) in the younger group and in 176/179 (98%) of the older group. Ninety‐one of 104 children (87%) younger and 172/179 (96%) older than 2 years showed high serum levels of anti‐TG2. Finally, 41/56 (73%) children younger than 2 years and all of the 40 children (100%) older than 2 years of age showed mucosal anti‐TG2–IgA deposits.

Conclusions:

EMA and anti‐TG2–antibody measurements show higher sensitivity for the diagnosis of CD in children older than 2 years compared with younger children. The search for mucosal deposits of anti‐TG2–IgA does not improve the diagnostic performance.
A banned variety was the mother of several major wine grapes
Authors: Hunt Harriet V. , Lawes Matthew C. , Bower Mim A. , Haeger John W. , Howe Christopher J.
Published: December 2009

A number of widely grown varieties of
Vitis vinifera
ssp.
sativa
, the grape used for wine production, are known to have resulted from crosses between Pinot noir and Gouais blanc, although it is not known which was the maternal parent in these crosses. We have analysed microsatellites and a single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) in chloroplast DNA from these two varieties and twelve progeny strains, including Chardonnay, Gamay noir and Aligoté. The results demonstrate that Gouais blanc was the maternal parent for nine of these strains, including Chardonnay, Gamay noir and Aligoté. This is a striking conclusion, as Gouais is generally considered a highly inferior variety, and its cultivation was banned for many years in parts of Europe.
Stable isotope views on ecosystem function: challenging or challenged?
Authors: Resco Víctor , Querejeta José I. , Ogle Kiona , Voltas Jordi , Sebastià Maria-Teresa , Serrano-Ortiz Penélope , Linares Juan C. , Moreno-Gutiérrez Cristina , Herrero Asier , Carreira José A. , Torres-Cañabate Patricia , Valladares Fernando
Published: December 2009

Stable isotopes and their potential for detecting various and complex ecosystem processes are attracting an increasing number of scientists. Progress is challenging, particularly under global change scenarios, but some established views have been challenged. The IX meeting of the Spanish Association of Terrestrial Ecology (AAET, Úbeda, 18–22 October 2009) hosted a symposium on the ecology of stable isotopes where the linear mixing model approach of partitioning sinks and sources of carbon and water fluxes within an ecosystem was challenged, and new applications of stable isotopes for the study of plant interactions were evaluated. Discussion was also centred on the need for networks that monitor ecological processes using stable isotopes and key ideas for fostering future research with isotopes.
Avian population consequences of climate change are most severe for long-distance migrants in seasonal habitats
Authors: Both Christiaan , Van Turnhout Chris A. M. , Bijlsma Rob G. , Siepel Henk , Van Strien Arco J. , Foppen Ruud P. B.
Published: December 2009

One consequence of climate change is an increasing mismatch between timing of food requirements and food availability. Such a mismatch is primarily expected in avian long-distance migrants because of their complex annual cycle, and in habitats with a seasonal food peak. Here we show that insectivorous long-distance migrant species in The Netherlands declined strongly (1984–2004) in forests, a habitat characterized by a short spring food peak, but that they did not decline in less seasonal marshes. Also, within generalist long-distance migrant species, populations declined more strongly in forests than in marshes. Forest-inhabiting migrant species arriving latest in spring declined most sharply, probably because their mismatch with the peak in food supply is greatest. Residents and short-distance migrants had non-declining populations in both habitats, suggesting that habitat quality did not deteriorate. Habitat-related differences in trends were most probably caused by climate change because at a European scale, long-distance migrants in forests declined more severely in western Europe, where springs have become considerably warmer, when compared with northern Europe, where temperatures during spring arrival and breeding have increased less. Our results suggest that trophic mismatches may have become a major cause for population declines in long-distance migrants in highly seasonal habitats.
Optic flow informs distance but not profitability for honeybees
Authors: Shafir Sharoni , Barron Andrew B.
Published: December 2009

How do flying insects monitor foraging efficiency? Honeybees (Apis mellifera) use optic flow information as an odometer to estimate distance travelled, but here we tested whether optic flow informs estimation of foraging costs also. Bees were trained to feeders in flight tunnels such that bees experienced the greatest optic flow en route to the feeder closest to the hive. Analyses of dance communication showed that, as expected, bees indicated the close feeder as being further, but they also indicated this feeder as the more profitable, and preferentially visited this feeder when given a choice. We show that honeybee estimates of foraging cost are not reliant on optic flow information. Rather, bees can assess distance and profitability independently and signal these aspects as separate elements of their dances. The optic flow signal is sensitive to the nature of the environment travelled by the bee, and is therefore not a good index of flight energetic costs, but it provides a good indication of distance travelled for purpose of navigation and communication, as long as the dancer and recruit travel similar routes. This study suggests an adaptive dual processing system in honeybees for communicating and navigating distance flown and for evaluating its energetic costs.
A Putative Phosphatase, LSF1, Is Required for Normal Starch Turnover in Arabidopsis Leaves
Authors: Comparot-Moss Sylviane , Koݶtting Oliver , Stettler Michaela , Edner Christoph , Graf Alexander , Weise Sean E. , Streb Sebastian , Lue Wei-Ling , MacLean Daniel , Mahlow Sebastian , Ritte Gerhard , Steup Martin , Chen Jychian , Zeeman Samuel C. , Smith Alison M.
Published: December 2009

A putative phosphatase, LSF1 (for LIKE SEX4; previously PTPKIS2), is closely related in sequence and structure to STARCH-EXCESS4 (SEX4), an enzyme necessary for the removal of phosphate groups from starch polymers during starch degradation in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) leaves at night. We show that LSF1 is also required for starch degradation: lsf1 mutants, like sex4 mutants, have substantially more starch in their leaves than wild-type plants throughout the diurnal cycle. LSF1 is chloroplastic and is located on the surface of starch granules. lsf1 and sex4 mutants show similar, extensive changes relative to wild-type plants in the expression of sugar-sensitive genes. However, although LSF1 and SEX4 are probably both involved in the early stages of starch degradation, we show that LSF1 neither catalyzes the same reaction as SEX4 nor mediates a sequential step in the pathway. Evidence includes the contents and metabolism of phosphorylated glucans in the single mutants. The sex4 mutant accumulates soluble phospho-oligosaccharides undetectable in wild-type plants and is deficient in a starch granule-dephosphorylating activity present in wild-type plants. The lsf1 mutant displays neither of these phenotypes. The phenotype of the lsf1/sex4 double mutant also differs from that of both single mutants in several respects. We discuss the possible role of the LSF1 protein in starch degradation.
Anisotropic microstrain broadening of minium, Pb3O4, in a high-pressure cell: interpretation of line-width parameters in terms of stress variations
Authors: Leineweber Andreas , Dinnebier Robert E.
Published: December 2009

The diffraction-line broadening exhibited by three different Pb3O4phases was studied at ambient and elevated pressures. The broadening indicates strongly anisotropic microstrain, which was interpreted in terms of (local) stress variations in association with strongly anisotropic elastic properties. In particular, making use of the anisotropic compressibility of Pb3O4determined on the basis of the present data, the pressure fluctuations in the employed diamond anvil cell due to non-hydrostatic conditions of the sample were estimated.
An evolutionary analysis of mealtime difficulties in older adults with dementia
Authors: Aselage Melissa B , Amella Elaine J
Published: December 2009

Aims and objectives.  To use the evolutionary method of concept analysis to identify attributes, antecedents and consequences of mealtime difficulties providing direction for assessment and management in older adults with dementia.

Background.  Mealtimes encompass more than the physical act of feeding a person with dementia. Social and contextual considerations are vital considerations to improving nutritional intake. While feeding difficulties in dementia have been analysed in the literature, this paper proposes a broader scope of mealtime considerations to alleviate nutritional deficiencies often associated with dementia.

Design.  Evolutionary method of concept analysis.

Methods.  In 2008, literature searches using keywords (meal, history, sociology, mealtime, culture, habit, dementia, dementia) were done in CINAHL, Academic Search Premiere, MasterFILE, Americal Life and History, Communication and Mass Media Complete, EJS, Health Source Plus‐Academic, PsychARTICLES and PsychINFO, ScienceDirect, Sociological Abstracts and Google. Year limits were from 1988–2008. A total of 659 abstracts were reviewed, Google, books and textbooks with relevant content.

Results.  Fourty‐eight sources were used in the final analysis of mealtime difficulties in older adults with dementia. A model of mealtime difficulties delineates attributes, antecedents and consequences.

Conclusions.  Mealtime difficulties in dementia emerged as a concept with supporting evidence‐based practice guidelines in 2003. Most research has been conducted in institutional settings, but community research is growing as the shifting demographics of ageing demand attention for this setting. Interventions vary in effectiveness for alleviating sequelae of mealtime difficulties in older adults with dementia.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The conceptual model of mealtime difficulties provides a broader scope of mealtime difficulties in dementia that considers environmental, social, cultural and contextual implications with nutritional intake. The model can be used to guide future research to alleviate mealtime difficulties in older adults with dementia.
Activity, inactivity and quality of life among Lebanese adolescents
Authors: Fazah Abdallah , Jacob Christophe , Moussa Elie , El‐Hage Rawad , Youssef Hala , Delamarche Paul
Published: December 2009

Background:  The aim of the present study was to investigate recent overweight and obesity prevalence rates for Lebanese adolescents, and to examine differences in physical activity, screen time (sum of time spent in front of TV, computer, and videogames), and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) for the first time among normal, overweight, and obese adolescents.

Methods:  One thousand Lebanese adolescents (14–18 years old) from nine schools participated in the study. Height, weight, physical activity, screen time, and HRQOL variables were assessed using validated self‐report questionnaires.

Results:  A total of 7.8% of boys and 1.75% of girls were obese, and 22.5% of boys and 12.47% of girls were overweight. Normal‐weight boys reported higher physical activity scores at health clubs than obese boys. Normal‐weight girls reported higher leisure time and total physical activity scores than obese girls. In the normal‐weight group, boys reported higher total screen time than girls. Normal‐weight boys reported higher physical functioning scores than their obese peers. Normal‐weight girls reported higher physical functioning and average HRQOL scores than obese girls. Normal‐weight and overweight boys reported higher average HRQOL scores than girls.

Conclusion:  The present study is the first to provide data on physical activity, screen time, and HRQOL among Lebanese adolescents. Despite the need for further research, all those concerned with the pediatric population are urged to develop and implement effective strategies to increase physical activity and improve HRQOL among adolescents based on the present findings.
Obesity and post‐operative complications in patients undergoing non‐bariatric surgery
Authors: Doyle S. L. , Lysaght J. , Reynolds J. V.
Published: December 2009

As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise in society, an increasing number of patients undergoing non‐bariatric surgery will be obese. Obesity is known to increase morbidity and mortality in the general population and thus is perceived as a risk factor for adverse post‐surgical outcomes. This association is not clear‐cut, however, and there is a lack of consensus in the literature on the risk between obesity and specific complications, in particular relating to infection, wound healing, respiratory and venous thromboembolism. The paucity of studies, as well as a lack of consistency of definition of obesity, with an over‐reliance on body mass index rather than body composition analysis, may underlie this confusion. Emerging concepts position central/visceral adipose tissue as potentially key to the pathogenesis of the comorbidities associated with obesity, thus this article reviews emerging research investigating the association between visceral obesity, the metabolic syndrome and resulting post‐operative complications. It is hypothesized that the state of chronic inflammation and dysmetabolism observed in visceral obese patients negatively influences post‐operative outcomes and represents a potential target for pharmaconutrition. The need for further research investigating the influence of visceral adiposity on immune function post surgery and its impact on post‐operative morbidity and mortality is highlighted.
ENDOGENOUS CONSUMER PARTICIPATION AND THE RECYCLING PROBLEM*
Authors: BAKSI SOHAM , VAN LONG NGO
Published: December 2009

We endogenise the extent of consumer participation in the recycling process, and analyse its effect on the ‘recycling problem’. When recycling requires consumers to undertake costly sorting activities to separate scrap from household waste, they will participate only if the net reward from sorting is positive. Consumers' sorting cost is subject to a network effect arising due to social norms. With heterogeneous consumers differing in terms of their sorting cost, the entire output of the recyclable product may not be subsequently available as scrap to the recycling firms. This increases the virgin producer's monopoly power, and may also lead to multiple equilibria if the network effect of sorting is sufficiently large. The latter result suggests a role for the government in influencing equilibrium selection to improve social welfare. Depending on the fraction of consumers that participate in recycling, increased societal pressure on consumers to recycle may decrease consumer participation and increase the virgin producer's market power.
Frontier Vigilantism? Australia and Contemporary Representations of Australian Antarctic Territory
Authors: Dodds Klaus , Hemmings Alan D.
Published: December 2009

This article considers the way in which recent commentators have represented Australia's relationship with Antarctica including current and future challenges. While successive Australian governments from the 1950s onwards have sought inter alia to develop and protect the country's southern oceanic and Antarctic interests, concern has persisted about the activities of other parties. The signing of the 1959 Antarctic Treaty helped to ensure that the territorial status quo prevailed with regard to the Australian Antarctic Territory. The entry of the United Nations Law of the Sea Convention (UNCLOS) into force in 1994 created new opportunities for further expressions of sovereign rights in this region. While mindful of the evolving legal geographies affecting Antarctica, our paper asks a series of questions about this relationship with the far south: how has Australian national identity been informed and influenced by Antarctic engagements? Will UNCLOS actually weaken the Antarctic Treaty System? Finally, do contemporary Australian pronouncements on the Antarctic hint at anxieties reminiscent of the 1950s? We conclude with a warning that nationalistic evocations may well unsettle a delicate balance concerning the Southern Ocean and disputed ownership of Antarctica.
HOW TO RECTIFY UNFAIR TRADE PRACTICES AND TO ESTABLISH APPROPRIATE SUPPLY CHAINS AND BETTER BUSINESS CULTURE UNDER THE GLOBAL MARKET ECONOMY
Authors: Ide Tsugio
Published: December 2009

Banning unfair trade practices stands alongside private monopolization and the unjust restraint of trade as a key theme in competition policy. However, it poses much greater difficulties to deal with the matter than either private monopolization or unjust restraint of trade. In recent years, ongoing economic globalization, advances in information communication technology and other factors have wrought major changes in the traditional supply chain: for example, in subcontracting structure. Given the role of small and medium enterprises in underpinning economic growth, lifting the basic quality and performance level of these firms and improving business conditions for them have emerged as key policy themes. New efforts are needed to establish fair trade as a business practice and to create a new business culture in corporation with competition policy, small and medium enterprise policy and business ethics, such as Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices.
The Food Crisis, Industrialized Farming and the Imperial Regime
Authors: VAN DER PLOEG JAN DOUWE
Published: December 2009

This paper argues that the food crisis cannot solely be equated with abrupt food price increases or seen as merely market induced. The unprecedented price increases of the first half of 2008, and the extremely low prices that followed, are expressions of a far wider and far more persistent underlying crisis, which has been germinating for more than a decade. It is the complex outcome of several combined processes, including the industrialization of agriculture, the liberalization of food and agricultural markets and the rise of food empires. The interaction of these processes has created a global agrarian crisis that has provoked the multifaceted food crisis. Both these crises are being accelerated through their interactions with the wider economic and financial crisis.
Pathogenic cysteine mutations affect progranulin function and production of mature granulins
Authors: Wang Jun , Van Damme Philip , Cruchaga Carlos , Gitcho Michael A. , Vidal Jose Manuel , Seijo‐Martínez Manuel , Wang Lei , Wu Jane Y. , Robberecht Wim , Goate Alison
Published: December 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 1305–1315.

Frontotemporal dementia with ubiquitin‐positive inclusions (FTLD‐U) can be caused by mutations in the progranulin gene (GRN). Progranulin (PGRN) is a cysteine‐rich growth factor, which is proteolytically cleaved by elastase to produce several granulins (GRNs). All FTLD‐U mutations in GRN characterized to date result in reduced secreted PGRN protein. We recently reported a Spanish family with progressive non‐fluent aphasia and dementia in which a novel C521Y mutation segregates with disease. A second cysteine mutation (C139R) has also been reported to be disease specific. Allele‐specific mRNA expression assays in brain reveal that the C521Y mutant allele is expressed at similar levels to the wild‐type allele. Furthermore, plasma PGRN levels in C521Y carriers are comparable with non‐carrier family relatives, suggesting that the mutation does not affect PGRN protein expression and secretion in vivo. Despite normal PGRN levels C521Y and C139R mutant GRNs show reduced neurite growth‐stimulating activity in vitro. Further study revealed that these mutations also cause impaired cleavage of PGRN by elastase. Our data suggest that these mutations affect the function of full‐length PGRN as well as elastase cleavage of PGRN into GRNs, leading to neurodegeneration.
Integrating species life‐history traits and patterns of deforestation in amphibian conservation planning
Authors: Becker C. G. , Loyola R. D. , Haddad C. F. B. , Zamudio K. R.
Published: December 2009

Aim  To identify priority areas for amphibian conservation in southeastern Brazil, by integrating species life‐history traits and patterns of deforestation.

Location  State of São Paulo, Brazil.

Methods  We used the software Marxan to evaluate different scenarios of amphibian conservation planning. Our approach differs from previous methods by explicitly including two different landscape metrics; habitat split for species with aquatic larvae, and habitat loss for species with terrestrial development. We evaluated the effect of habitat requirements by classifying species breeding habitats in five categories (flowing water, still water permanent, still water temporary, bromeliad or bamboo, and terrestrial). We performed analyses using two scales, grid cells and watersheds and also considered nature preserves as protected areas.

Results  We found contrasting patterns of deforestation between coastal and inland regions. Seventy‐six grid cells and 14 watersheds are capable of representing each species at least once. When accounting for grid cells already protected in state and national parks and considering species habitat requirements we found 16 high‐priority grid cells for species with one or two reproductive habitats, and only one cell representing species with four habitat requirements. Key areas for the conservation of species breeding in flowing and permanent still waters are concentrated in southern state, while those for amphibians breeding in temporary ponds are concentrated in central to eastern zones. Eastern highland zones are key areas for preserving species breeding terrestrially by direct or indirect development. Species breeding in bromeliads and bamboos are already well represented in protected areas.

Main conclusions  Our results emphasize the need to integrate information on landscape configuration and species life‐history traits to produce more ecologically relevant conservation strategies.
Ethanol‐Induced Oxidative Stress and Mitochondrial Dysfunction in Rat Placenta: Relevance to Pregnancy Loss
Authors: Gundogan Fusun , Elwood Gwen , Mark Princess , Feijoo Adrian , Longato Lisa , Tong Ming , De La Monte Suzanne M.
Published: December 2009

Background:  Ethanol consumption during pregnancy increases the risk of early pregnancy loss and causes intrauterine growth restriction. We previously showed that chronic gestational exposure to ethanol impairs placentation, and that this effect is associated with inhibition of insulin and insulin growth factor signaling. Since ethanol also causes oxidative stress and DNA damage, we extended our investigations to assess the role of these pathological processes on placentation and placental gene expression.

Methods:  Pregnant Long Evans rats were pair‐fed liquid diets containing 0% or 24% ethanol by caloric content. Placentas harvested on gestation day 16 were used to examine DNA damage, lipid peroxidation, apoptosis, mitochondrial gene/protein and hormonal gene expression in relation to ethanol exposure.

Results:  Gestational exposure to ethanol increased fetal resorption, and trophoblast apoptosis/necrosis, oxidative stress, DNA damage, and lipid peroxidation. These adverse effects of ethanol were associated with increased expression of pro‐apoptotic (Bax and Bak) and reduced levels of the anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 protein. In addition, increased trophoblast apoptosis proneness was associated with p53‐independent activation of p21, reduced mitochondrial gene and protein expression, and dysregulated expression of prolactin (PRL) family hormones that are required for implantation and pregnancy‐related adaptations.

Conclusions:  Chronic gestational exposure to ethanol increases fetal demise due to impaired survival and mitochondrial function, increased oxidative stress, DNA damage and lipid peroxidation, and dysregulated expression of prolactin family hormones in placental trophoblasts.
Betaine Protects Chronic Alcohol and ω‐3 PUFA‐Mediated Down‐Regulations of PON1 Gene, Serum PON1 and Homocysteine Thiolactonase Activities With Restoration of Liver GSH
Authors: Varatharajalu Ravi , Garige Mamatha , Leckey Leslie C. , Gong Maokai , Lakshman M. Raj
Published: December 2009

Background:  Paraoxonase (PON1) is an antioxidant enzyme that prevents LDL oxidation as well as detoxifies homocysteine thiolactone (HCTL), both of which can cause atherosclerosis. Chronic alcohol (ETOH) and high ω‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (ω‐3 PUFA) consumption may affect PON1 status presumably via reactive oxygen species by depleting liver glutathione (GSH), whereas betaine may counter their effects. Therefore, we investigated the influence of ETOH, ω‐3 PUFA, and betaine on liver GSH, PON1 expression, lipid score, as well as serum PON1 and HCTLase activities.

Methods:  Experimental rats belonging to various dietary groups were pair‐fed with Lieber‐DeCarli low (2.8% the dietary calories as ω3‐fatty acids) and high (13.8% the dietary calories as ω3‐fatty acids) menhaden fish alcohol‐liquid diets with and without betaine (10 g/l diet) for 8 weeks after which liver PON1 mRNA, GSH, lipid score, and serum PON1, HCTLase, and ALT activities were measured.

Results:  High ω‐3 PUFA decreased liver PON1 mRNA expression, serum PON1, and HCTLase activity by 23% (p < 0.01), 20% (p < 0.05), and 28% (p < 0.05), respectively compared to the low ω‐3 PUFA group. ETOH decreased PON1 mRNA expression by 25 and 30% (p < 0.01) with concomitant 27% (p < 0.05) and 38% (p < 0.01), decrease in liver GSH levels in low and high ω‐3 PUFA groups, respectively. Correspondingly, serum PON1 activity decreased by 23% (p < 0.05) and 58% (p < 0.01) while serum HCTLase activity decreased by 25% (p < 0.05) and 59% (p < 0.01) in the low and high ω‐3 PUFA ETOH groups, respectively. Betaine restored liver PON1 mRNA expressions in low and high ω‐3 PUFA ETOH groups with parallel restorations of PON1 activity and liver GSH. Concomitantly, betaine reduced hepatosteatosis accompanied by alleviation of liver injury caused by chronic alcohol and high ω‐3 PUFA.

Conclusions:  Based on these results, we conclude that dietary betaine not only atheroprotective by restoring liver GSH that quenches free radicals, but also may alleviate liver injury by reducing hepatosteatosis.
Electrodeposition of Titania Thin Films on Metallic Surface for High‐k Dielectric Applications
Authors: Roy Biplab K. , Zhang Guangneng , Magnuson Roy , Poliks Mark , Cho Junghyun
Published: December 2009

Current microelectronics devices based on flexible as well as rigid substrates demand high dielectric constant (k) films to be grown on conductive substrate from a low‐cost, low‐temperature deposition technique. In this study, we produced high‐k titania (TiO2) films through an affordable electrodeposition protocol from the electrochemical bath maintained at about 0°C. The deposition occurs through a rapid hydrolysis mechanism of titanium containing ions in the precursor solution aided by electrochemically generated hydroxyl ions formed near the cathode surface (copper (Cu) substrate). Upon attaining a sufficient supersaturation level, such hydrolyzed species precipitate to form a titania thin film on the cathode surface. While depositing from a highly acidic precursor solution, Cu substrate was protected by a cathodic potential (−3 to −5 V against the counter electrode). The resultant titania films show nanoparticulate structures evolved from nucleation and growth events of the in situ precipitated particles. Much higher deposition rate (about 1 μm/min) was observed compared with that of typical chemical bath deposition. The resultant films with a thickness of 1500 nm grown on Cu exhibit very high dielectric properties (e.g., k∼30, capacitance density >110 nF/in.2 at 100 kHz) and moderate breakdown voltage (VB) (∼17.5 V). These properties indicate the potential of electrodeposited titania films to be used as a small‐area thin‐film capacitor for miniaturized electronic devices.
Synergistic action of the novel HSP90 inhibitor NVP‐AUY922 with histone deacetylase inhibitors, melphalan, or doxorubicin in multiple myeloma
Authors: Kaiser Martin , Lamottke Britta , Mieth Maren , Jensen Michael R. , Quadt Cornelia , Garcia‐Echeverria Carlos , Atadja Peter , Heider Ulrike , Von Metzler Ivana , Türkmen Seval , Sezer Orhan
Published: December 2009

Heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) is a promising target for tumor therapy. The novel HSP90 inhibitor NVP‐AUY922 has preclinical activity in multiple myeloma, however, little is known about effective combination partners to design clinical studies. Multiple myeloma cell lines, OPM‐2, RPMI‐8226, U‐266, LP‐1, MM1.S, and primary myeloma cells were exposed to NVP‐AUY922 and one of the combination partners histone deacetylase inhibitor NVP‐LBH589, suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), melphalan, or doxorubicin, either simultaneously or in sequential patterns. Effects on cell proliferation and apoptosis were determined. Synergistic effects were evaluated using the method of Chou and Talalay. Combined sequential incubation with NVP‐AUY922 and SAHA showed that best synergistic effects were achieved with 24 h preincubation with SAHA followed by another 48 h of combination treatment. Combination of NVP‐AUY922 with SAHA, NVP‐LBH589, melphalan, or doxorubicin resulted in synergistic inhibition of viability, with strong synergy (combination index < 0.3) in the case of melphalan. Importantly, resistance of the RPMI‐8226 cell line and relative resistance of some primary myeloma cells against NVP‐AUY922 could be overcome by combination treatment. These data show impressive synergistic action of the novel HSP90 inhibitor NVP‐AUY922 with melphalan, doxorubicin, NVP‐LBH589, and SAHA in multiple myeloma and build the frame work for clinical trials.
A genetic study of ADHD and activity level in infancy
Authors: Ilott N. , Saudino K. J. , Wood A. , Asherson P.
Published: December 2009

It is well known that there are strong genetic influences on attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), with genetic association studies providing good evidence for the involvement of the dopamine neurotransmitter system in its aetiology. Developmental origins of ADHD represent an interesting area of research to understand the genetics that underlie early appearing individual differences. However, understanding the molecular basis of ADHD requires accurate, unbiased, heritable measures that can be used for molecular genetic association analyses. We take two approaches to examine the genetics of ADHD behaviours in infancy. Using quantitative genetic techniques, we explore the relationship between objective measures of activity level (AL) in both home and laboratory environments as well as with parent ratings of ADHD symptoms in a population sample of 2‐year‐old twins. Molecular association analyses of these measures examine candidate genes previously associated with ADHD. We find that ADHD symptoms, AL in the home and AL in the lab represent heritable phenotypes in 2‐year‐old infants. AL measured in the home has a strong genetic correlation with symptoms of ADHD, whereas AL in the lab correlates only modestly with the same ADHD measure. Genetic correlations suggest that AL in the home is more comparable than AL in the lab to ADHD behaviour and support the separation of all three for molecular analyses. There was modest evidence for association between DAT1, NET1 and ADHD symptom scores, as well as between DAT1 and AL in the lab.