bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Laminar structure of non-linear waves in a multi-component collisionless plasma
Authors: Pataraya A.D.
Published: January 2011

The author considers non-linear waves propagating at an angle to the external magnetic field in a multi-component, completely ionized, quasi-neutral plasma. Collisions between plasma particles are not taken into account. For waves propagating across the magnetic field, thermal effects are taken into account by means of Vlasov kinetic equations. The author finds dispersion effects due to deviation of the dispersion law ω = ω(k) from a linear one. An analytical expression is obtained for the profile of an isolated wave of low amplitude and it is found that, depending on the angle between the magnetic field and the velocity of wave propagation, the wave can be a non-linear compression or rarefaction wave. The necessary conditions limiting changes in the Mach number are established. The fine structure of the solitary wave is investigated for a three-component plasma, allowance being made for effects associated with electron inertia. It is found that the depression i n the solitary compression wave appears only when the ions of both sorts are positively charged. The critical Mach number (M*) and magnetic field strength (h*) values are obtained. For M > M* there is a depression in the solitary compression wave.
Two suggestions regarding controlled fusion: approximation equations for fusion-fission reactors and fusion-reaction-tube reactors
Authors: Jung H.
Published: January 2011

In this letter the approximation equations, including the criticality condition, for an infinitely large fusion-fission reactor are discussed. In addition, the criticality condition for a fusion-neutron-multiplier (n, 2n) reactor is considered. The equations show that it is even worth asking with what minimum amount of fissionable materiala (fast) fission-neutron-multiplier (exergetic) reactor can be operated.
Stability of inhomogeneous relativistic electron beams
Authors: Bogdankevich L.S. , Rukhadze A.A. , Zhelyazkov I.I.
Published: January 2011

The authors investigate the stability of a space-bounded relativistic beam of electrons accelerated by a nonuniform electric field under conditions where the transverse dimension of the beam is significantly greater than the Debye radius and a collective approach is necessary for describing small oscillations. For currents exceeding some critical value, there may develop in such a system an instability analogous to the ‘slipping’ instability of non-relativistic electron beams with a nonuniform velocity profile. The instability conditions are established and the instability growth rates calculated both in the absence and in the presence of a strong longitudinal magnetic field. The energy spread of the electrons has a stabilizing effect on the beam instability in question. In the Annex it is shown that the slipping instability is characteristic of any non-uniform plasma flow. In particular, it may develop in an isotropic plasma if the flow velocities exceed the thermal velocity of the ions.
Hydromagnetic stability of a plasma in stellarators
Authors: Shafranov V.D. , Yurchenko E.I.
Published: January 2011

It is shown that, with the help of the sufficient criterion for hydromagnetic stability of a plasma proposed by Solovev, It is possible to calculate for stellarators a non-trivial plasma pressure limit at which there is hydromagnetic plasma stability with respect to arbitrary perturbations. In the simplest case of a two-turn stellarator with a circular magnetic axis this limit has the form β ≤ (δU0/U0)(ι/2π)2.
Uniqueness of finite total curvatures and the structure of radial solutions for nonlinear elliptic equations
Authors: Chern Jann-Long , Chen Zhi-You , Tang Yong-Li
Published: January 2011

In this article, we are concerned with the semilinear elliptic equation
\[
<mml:math xmlns:mml="http://www.w3.org/1998/Math/MathML" alttext="normal upper Delta u plus upper K left-parenthesis StartAbsoluteValue x EndAbsoluteValue right-parenthesis StartAbsoluteValue u EndAbsoluteValue Superscript p minus 1 Baseline u equals 0 in bold upper R Superscript n Baseline minus StartSet bold 0 EndSet comma">

Δ
u
+
K
(

|

x

|

)

|

u

|

p
−
1

u
=
0

in

 

R

n

∖
{

0

}
,

\Delta u+K(|x|)|u|^{p-1}u=0\quad \textrm {in}\ \mathbf {R}^n\setminus \{\mathbf {0}\},

\]
where

n
>
2

n>2

,

p
>
1

p>1

, and

K
(

|

x

|

)
>
0

K(|x|)>0

in

R

n

\mathbf {R}^n

. The correspondence between the initial values of regularly positive radial solutions of the above equation and the associated finite total curvatures will be derived. In addition, we also conduct the zeros of radial solutions in terms of the initial data under specific conditions on

K
K

and

p
p

. Furthermore, based on the Pohozaev identity and openness for the regions of initial data corresponding to certain types of solutions, we obtain the whole structure of radial solutions depending on various situations.
Nitrous Oxide Diffusion and the Second Gas Effect on Emergence from Anesthesia
Authors: Peyton Philip J. , Chao Ian , Weinberg Laurence , Robinson Gavin J. B. , Thompson Bruce R.
Published: January 2011

Background

Rapid elimination of nitrous oxide from the lungs at the end of inhalational anesthesia dilutes alveolar oxygen, producing "diffusion hypoxia." A similar dilutional effect on accompanying volatile anesthetic agent has not been evaluated and may impact the speed of emergence.

Methods

Twenty patients undergoing surgery were randomly assigned to receive an anesthetic maintenance gas mixture of sevoflurane adjusted to bispectral index, in air-oxygen (control group) versus a 2:1 mixture of nitrous oxide-oxygen (nitrous oxide group). After surgery, baseline arterial and tidal gas samples were taken. Patients were ventilated with oxygen, and arterial and tidal gas sampling was repeated at 2 and 5 min. Arterial sampling was repeated 30 min after surgery. Sevoflurane partial pressure was measured in blood by the double headspace equilibration technique and in tidal gas using a calibrated infrared gas analyzer. Time to eye opening and time extubation were recorded. The primary endpoint was the reduction in sevoflurane partial pressures in blood at 2 and 5 min.

Results

Relative to baseline, arterial sevoflurane partial pressure was 39% higher at 5 min in the control group (P < 0.04) versus the nitrous oxide group. At 30 min the difference was not statistically significant. Time to eye opening (8.7 vs. 10.1 min) and time to extubation (11.0 vs.13.2 min) were shorter in the nitrous oxide group versus the control group (P < 0.04).

Conclusions

Elimination of nitrous oxide at the end of anesthesia produces a clinically significant acceleration in the reduction of concentrations of the accompanying volatile agents, contributing to the speed of emergence observed after inhalational nitrous oxide anesthetic.
Toll-like Receptor 4 Signaling Confers Cardiac Protection against Ischemic Injury via Inducible Nitric Oxide Synthase- and Soluble Guanylate Cyclase-dependent Mechanisms
Authors: Wang E , Feng Yan , Zhang Ming , Zou Lin , Li Yan , Buys Emmanuel S. , Huang Peigen , Brouckaert Peter , Chao Wei
Published: January 2011

Background

Prior administration of a small dose of lipopolysaccharide confers a cardiac protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury. However, the signaling mechanisms that control the protection are incompletely understood. We tested the hypothesis that Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) mediates the ability of lipopolysaccharide to protect against cardiac ischemia-reperfusion injury through distinct intracellular pathways involving myeloid differentiation factor 88 (MyD88), TIR-domain-containing adaptor protein-inducing interferon-β-mediated transcription factor (Trif), inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), and soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC).

Methods

Wild-type mice and genetically modified mice, that is TLR4-deficient (TLR4(-def)), TLR2 knockout (TLR2(-/-)), MyD88(-/-), Trif(-/-), iNOS(-/-), and sGCα1(-/-), were treated with normal saline or 0.1 mg/kg lipopolysaccharide intraperitoneally. Twenty-four hours later, isolated hearts were perfused in a Langendorff apparatus and subsequently subjected to 30 min global ischemia and reperfusion for as long as 60 min. Left ventricular function and myocardial infarction sizes were examined.

Results

Compared with saline-treated mice, lipopolysaccharide-treated mice had markedly improved left ventricular developed pressure and dP/dt(max) (P < 0.01) and reduced myocardial infarction sizes (37.2 ± 3.4% vs. 19.8 ± 4.9%, P < 0.01) after ischemia-reperfusion. The cardiac protective effect of lipopolysaccharide was abolished in the TLR4(-def) and MyD88(-/-) mice but remained intact in TLR2(-/-) or Trif(-/-) mice. iNOS(-/-) mice or wild-type mice treated with the iNOS inhibitor 1400W failed to respond to the TLR4-induced nitric oxide production and were not protected by the lipopolysaccharide preconditioning. Although sGCα(1)(-/-) mice had robust nitric oxide production in response to lipopolysaccharide, they were not protected by the TLR4-elicited cardiac protection.

Conclusions

TLR4 activation confers a potent cardiac protection against ischemia-reperfusion injury via a MyD88-dependent, but Trif-independent, mechanism. iNOS/sGC are essential for the TLR4-induced cardiac protection.
Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus papain-like protease suppressed alpha interferon-induced responses through downregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1-mediated signalling pathways
Authors: Li Shih-Wein , Lai Chien-Chen , Ping Jia-Fong , Tsai Fuu-Jen , Wan Lei , Lin Ying-Ju , Kung Szu-Hao , Lin Cheng-Wen
Published: January 2011

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV) papain-like protease (PLpro), a deubiquitinating enzyme, reportedly blocks poly I : C-induced activation of interferon regulatory factor 3 and nuclear factor kappa B, reducing interferon (IFN) induction. This study investigated type I IFN antagonist mechanism of PLpro in human promonocytes. PLpro antagonized IFN-α-induced responses such as interferon-stimulated response element- and AP-1-driven promoter activation, protein kinase R, 2′-5′-oligoadenylate synthetase (OAS), interleukin (IL)-6 and IL-8 expression, and signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) 1 (Tyr701), STAT1 (Ser727) and c-Jun phosphorylation. A proteomics approach demonstrated downregulation of extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK) 1 and upregulation of ubiquitin-conjugating enzyme (UBC) E2-25k as inhibitory mechanism of PLpro on IFN-α-induced responses. IFN-α treatment significantly induced mRNA expression of UBC E2-25k, but not ERK1, causing time-dependent decrease of ERK1, but not ERK2, in PLpro-expressing cells. Poly-ubiquitination of ERK1 showed a relationship between ERK1 and ubiquitin proteasome signalling pathways associated with IFN antagonism by PLpro. Combination treatment of IFN-α and the proteasome inhibitor MG-132 showed a time-dependent restoration of ERK1 protein levels and significant increase of ERK1, STAT1 and c-Jun phosphorylation in PLpro-expressing cells. Importantly, PD098059 (an ERK1/2 inhibitor) treatment significantly reduced IFN-α-induced ERK1 and STAT1 phosphorylation, inhibiting IFN-α-induced expression of 2′-5′-OAS in vector control cells and PLpro-expressing cells. Overall results proved downregulation of ERK1 by ubiquitin proteasomes and suppression of interaction between ERK1 and STAT1 as type I IFN antagonist function of SARS-CoV PLpro.
Oral ingestion of Lentinula edodes mycelia extract inhibits B16 melanoma growth via mitigation of regulatory T cell‐mediated immunosuppression
Authors: Tanaka Kousuke , Ishikawa Satoru , Matsui Yasunori , Tamesada Makoto , Harashima Nanae , Harada Mamoru
Published: January 2011

Mitigation of regulatory T cell‐mediated immunosuppression is crucial for optimal in vivo anti‐tumor immune responses. In this study, we examined the anti‐tumor effect induced by oral ingestion of an immunomodulating diet comprised of Lentinula edodes mycelia (L.E.M.) extract. C57BL/6 mice were inoculated subcutaneously in the footpad with B16 melanoma and fed L.E.M. extract. Ingestion of L.E.M. extract significantly inhibited tumor growth, and this in vivo anti‐tumor effect was not observed in nude mice, suggesting a T cell‐dependent mechanism. In addition, ingestion of L.E.M. extract led to significant restoration of H‐2Kb‐restricted and melanoma‐reactive T cells in the spleen and draining lymph nodes of melanoma‐bearing mice. Flow cytometry analysis revealed that the percentage of Foxp3+ CD4+ T cells increased in spleen and draining lymph nodes in melanoma‐bearing mice, but decreased significantly with ingestion of L.E.M. extract. Importantly, selective depletion of CD8+ T cells abolished the L.E.M.‐induced anti‐tumor effect, whereas that of CD4+ T cells or CD25+ cells showed no additive influence on the effect. Real‐time PCR analysis revealed that ingestion of L.E.M. extract by melanoma‐bearing mice decreased the level of Foxp3 mRNA within the tumor tissues, and lowered plasma transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β. Furthermore, an in vitro assay revealed that an immunosuppressive activity of CD4+ T cells from melanoma‐bearing mice was canceled by ingestion of L.E.M. extract. Our results indicate that oral ingestion of L.E.M. extract restores immune responses of class I‐restricted and melanoma‐reactive CD8+ T cells in melanoma‐bearing mice, presumably by a mitigation of regulatory T cells‐mediated immunosuppression. (Cancer Sci 2011; 102: 516–521)
Molecular characterization of the human ABO blood group orthologus system in pigs
Authors: Nguyen D. T. , Choi H. , Jo H. , Kim J.‐H. , Dirisala V. R. , Lee K.‐T. , Kim T.‐H. , Park K.‐K. , Seo K. , Park C.
Published: January 2011

The selection and use of animals with blood group 0 in the process of transplanting pig organs or tissues into humans can positively contribute to the control of acute immune rejection due to differences in blood groups. Exon‐specific PCRs for theporcine blood group A transferasegene against genomic DNA from either blood group A or 0 animals resulted in the amplification failure of theA0 blood groupgene exon 8 from blood group 0 animals. To characterize the genetic abnormality in the genome of blood group 0 animals, we screened bacterial artificial chromosome (BAC) clones from a Korean native pig BAC library which had the blood group 0 allele, and carried out shotgun sequencing. The analysis showed that the 0 allele has a large deletion between exon 7 of theA0blood group gene and the neighbouringSURF6. We also showed that the ABO blood group antigens in humans and the A0 blood group antigens in pigs are coded by mutations within the orthologousglycosyltransferasegene. In addition, we developed a multiplex genotyping method for the porcineA0blood group gene.
Analysis of international content of ranked nursing journals in 2005 using ex post facto design
Authors: Dougherty Molly C. , Lin Shu‐Yuan , McKenna Hugh P. , Seers Kate , Keeney Sinead
Published: January 2011

dougherty m.c., lin s.‐y., mckenna h.p., seers k. & keeney s. (2011) Analysis of international content of ranked nursing journals in 2005 using ex post facto design. Journal of Advanced Nursing67(6), 1358–1369.

Aim.  The purpose of this study was to examine articles in ISI‐ranked nursing journals and to analyse the articles and journals, using definitions of international and article content.

Background.  Growing emphasis on global health includes attention on international nursing literature. Contributions from Latin America and Africa have been reported. Attention to ranked nursing journals to support scholarship in global health is needed.

Method.  Using an ex post facto design, characteristics of 2827 articles, authors and journals of 32 ranked nursing journals for the year 2005 were analysed between June 2006 and June 2007. Using definitions of international and of article content, research questions were analysed statistically.

Findings.  (a) 928 (32·8%) articles were international; (b) 2016 (71·3%) articles were empirical or scholarly; (c) 826 (89·3%) articles reflecting international content were scholarly or empirical; (d) among international articles more were empirical (66·3% vs. 32·8%; χ2(1) = 283·6, P < 0·001); (e) among non‐international articles more were scholarly (29·9% vs. 22·7%; χ2(1) = 15·85, P < 0·001; 22·7%); (f) 1004 (78·0%) articles were international, based on author characteristics; (f) 20 (62·5%) journals were led by an international editorial team; and (g) international journals had more international articles (3·6% vs. 29·2%; χ2(1) = 175·75, P < 0·001) and higher impact factors than non‐international journals (t = −14·43, P < 0·001).

Conclusion.  Articles with empirical content appear more frequently in international journals. Results indicate the need to examine the international relevance of the nursing literature.
Seclusion as a necessary intervention: the relationship between burnout, job satisfaction and therapeutic optimism and justification for the use of seclusion
Authors: Happell Brenda , Koehn Stefan
Published: January 2011

happell b. & koehn s. (2011) Seclusion as a necessary intervention: the relationship between burnout, job satisfaction and therapeutic optimism and justification for the use of seclusion. Journal of Advanced Nursing67(6), 1222–1231.

Aims.  This paper is a report of the study of nurses’ attitudes to the use of seclusion. More specifically, the aim was to address the relationship between burnout, job satisfaction and therapeutic optimism and justification of the use of seclusion.

Background.  Research findings demonstrate that nurses continue to view seclusion as a necessary intervention. Factors that might be associated with attitudes have not been examined.

Methods.  Questionnaires were distributed to nurses employed in inpatient units across eight mental health services in Queensland in 2008. Heyman Attitudes to Seclusion Survey, Elsom Therapeutic Optimism Scale, Maslach’s Burnout Inventory and Minnesota Satisfaction Questionnaires were completed (N = 123). Data analysis involved descriptive statistics and Pearson product‐moment correlation coefficients.

Results.  Most participants considered certain behaviours particularly those involving harm to self, others or to property as appropriate reasons for the use of seclusion and were consistent with their perceptions of the likely practice on their unit. An association was found between therapeutic optimism and emotional exhaustion (burnout) and justifications for the use of seclusion. Participants with higher optimism scores and lower scores for emotional exhaustion were significantly less likely to support the use of seclusion in specific situations.

Conclusions.  The relationship between therapeutic optimism and emotional exhaustion gives new information that might influence strategies and approaches taken with the aim of reducing seclusion use. Further research is warranted to explore these relationships and their implications.
Nurse burnout and its association with occupational stress in a cross‐sectional study in Shanghai
Authors: Xie Zhenyu , Wang Aolin , Chen Bo
Published: January 2011

xie z., wang a. & chen b. (2011) Nurse burnout and its association with occupational stress in a cross‐sectional study in Shanghai. Journal of Advanced Nursing67(7), 1537–1546.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study investigating nurse burnout and its association with occupational stressors in Shanghai, China.

Background.  Burnout is described as feelings of emotional exhaustion, depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment. Measuring burnout among nurses and its association with occupational stressors are important in providing appropriate intervention to reduce stress and burnout.

Method.  In total, 527 nurses from 41 hospitals in Shanghai returned self‐reported questionnaires in June 2008. Their burden of burnout was measured by the Chinese version of ‘Maslach Burnout Inventory’, and their stress by the Chinese version of ‘job content questionnaire’ and ‘effort‐reward imbalance questionnaire’.

Results.  Most nurses (74·76%) had a Demand/Control ratio higher than 1 and 27·13% had an Effort/Reward ratio higher than 1. The nurses showed a high level of emotional exhaustion, moderate level of depersonalization, and low level of reduced personal accomplishment. Linear regression analyses showed higher burden of stress and burnout among nurses at younger age, or on shift duty or from higher grade hospitals. Both the job content questionnaire and effort‐reward imbalance questionnaire models had good predictive powers of the nurses’ burnout, especially the effort‐reward imbalance questionnaire model is more powerful than the other in predicting two Maslach Burnout Inventory subscales of emotional exhaustion and depersonalization.

Conclusion.  Nurses in Shanghai were suffering from high levels of burnout, which was strongly associated with work‐related stress. Interventions in reducing occupational stress are needed to reduce the burden of burnout in Chinese nurses.
Temporal isolation explains host‐related genetic differentiation in a group of widespread mycoparasitic fungi
Authors: KISS LEVENTE , PINTYE ALEXANDRA , KOVÁCS GÁBOR M. , JANKOVICS TÜNDE , FONTAINE MICHAEL C. , HARVEY NICK , XU XIANGMING , NICOT PHILIPPE C. , BARDIN MARC , SHYKOFF JACQUI A. , GIRAUD TATIANA
Published: January 2011

Understanding the mechanisms responsible for divergence and specialization of pathogens on different hosts is of fundamental importance, especially in the context of the emergence of new diseases via host shifts. Temporal isolation has been reported in a few plants and parasites, but is probably one of the least studied speciation processes. We studied whether temporal isolation could be responsible for the maintenance of genetic differentiation among sympatric populations of Ampelomyces, widespread intracellular mycoparasites of powdery mildew fungi, themselves plant pathogens. The timing of transmission of Ampelomyces depends on the life cycles of the powdery mildew species they parasitize. Internal transcribed spacer sequences and microsatellite markers showed that Ampelomyces populations found in apple powdery mildew (Podosphaera leucotricha) were genetically highly differentiated from other Ampelomyces populations sampled from several other powdery mildew species across Europe, infecting plant hosts other than apple. While P. leucotricha starts its life cycle early in spring, and the main apple powdery mildew epidemics occur before summer, the fungal hosts of the other Ampelomyces cause epidemics mainly in summer and autumn. When two powdery mildew species were experimentally exposed to Ampelomyces strains naturally occurring in P. leucotricha in spring, and to strains naturally present in other mycohost species in autumn, cross‐infections always occurred. Thus, the host‐related genetic differentiation in Ampelomyces cannot be explained by narrow physiological specialization, because Ampelomyces were able to infect powdery mildew species they were unlikely to have encountered in nature, but instead appears to result from temporal isolation.
Explaining patterns of infection in free‐living populations using laboratory immune experiments
Authors: MURPHY L. , NALPAS N. , STEAR M. , CATTADORI I. M.
Published: January 2011

The host response to different helminth species can vary and have different consequences for helminth persistence. Often these differences are generated by changes in the dynamics and intensity of the immune components against parasites with distinct life history strategies. We examined the immune response of rabbits to primary infections of the gastrointestinal nematodes Trichostrongylus retortaeformis and Graphidium strigosum under controlled conditions for 120 days post‐challenge. Results showed that rabbits developed a robust and effective immune response against T. retortaeformis and abundance quickly decreased in the duodenum and was completely cleared in the remaining sections of the small intestine within 4 months. Infected individuals exhibited an initial strong inflammatory response (IFN‐γ), IL‐4 expression also increased and was coupled to a rapid serum and mucus IgG and IgA and eosinophilia. Strong IL‐4, serum IgA and IgG responses and eosinophilia were also observed against G. strigosum. However, parasite abundance remained consistently high throughout the infection, and this was associated with relatively low mucus antibodies. These findings suggest that immunity plays a key role in affecting the abundance of these nematodes, and different immune mechanisms are involved in regulating the dynamics of each infection and their long‐term persistence in free‐living host populations.
Assessment of a decision support system for chemical control of annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) in winter cereals
Authors: GONZALEZ‐ANDUJAR J L , FERNANDEZ‐QUINTANILLA C , BASTIDA F , CALVO R , IZQUIERDO J , LEZAUN J A
Published: January 2011

Gonzalez‐Andujar JL, Fernandez‐Quintanilla C, Bastida F, Calvo R, Izquierdo J & Lezaun JA (2011). Assessment of a decision support system for chemical control of annual ryegrass (Lolium rigidum) in winter cereals. Weed Research51, 304–309.

Field studies were conducted at five locations in North and East Spain to evaluate the agronomic, economic and environmental implications of a decision support system (LOLIUM‐PC) for herbicide control of Lolium rigidum in winter cereals. The chemical control treatments evaluated were as follows: (i) LOLIUM‐PC‐based recommendations, (ii) full herbicide dose (standard farmer practice) and (iii) half herbicide dose. Results indicate that there were no statistically significant differences, within sites, between treatments with respect to weed density, crop yield and economic return. On average, LOLIUM‐PC resulted in less herbicide application compared with the full herbicide dose treatment. This also was true in three of five localities for the half‐dose treatment. The results of this research indicate that LOLIUM‐PC provides a flexible tool for recommending less herbicide than other herbicide decision systems, adequate weed control and similar crop yields to those obtained with the standard farmer practice (full dose) in Spain.
Validation of ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) classification in a pediatric population: The PEDRIAL study
Authors: Jáuregui Ignacio , Dávila Ignacio , Sastre Joaquín , Bartra Joan , del Cuvillo Alfonso , Ferrer Marta , Montoro Javier , Mullol Joaquim , Molina Xavier , Valero Antonio
Published: January 2011

To cite this article: Jáuregui I, Dávila I, Sastre J, Bartra J, del Cuvillo A, Ferrer M, Montoro J, Mullol J, Molina X, Valero A. Validation of ARIA (Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma) classification in a pediatric population: The PEDRIAL study. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 388–392.

Allergic rhinitis (AR) is the commonest chronic disease in children. Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) classification based on symptom duration (intermittent vs. persistent) and severity (mild vs. moderate/severe) has not been yet validated in children. Thus our objective was to validate ARIA classification in children, after determining the severity and duration of AR in a pediatric population, using ARIA definitions. Children aged 6–12 with a diagnosis of AR were included in an observational, cross‐sectional, multicenter study. Patients were classified according to ARIA guidelines. AR symptoms were assessed using the Total Four Symptoms Score (T4SS). Severity was also evaluated by the patient using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Comparisons were made by means of a statistical analysis. One thousand two hundred and seventy‐five children from 271 centers were included. Among them, 59.5% had intermittent and 40.5% persistent AR, while 60.7% seasonal and 39.3% perennial according to dated classification, with significant differences existing between one classification and another; 89.7% had moderate/severe rhinitis. Significantly higher T4SS and VAS scores were obtained in moderate/severe compared to mild AR. In our experience, the current ARIA classification can be considered a valid tool also in children from 6‐ to 12‐yr old.
Association of Blattella germanica sensitization with atopic diseases in pediatric allergic patients
Authors: La Grutta Stefania , Cibella Fabio , Passalacqua Giovanni , Cuttitta Giuseppina , Liotta Giuseppe , Ferlisi Annalisa , Viegi Giovanni
Published: January 2011

To cite this article: La Grutta S, Cibella F, Passalacqua G, Cuttitta G, Liotta G, Ferlisi A, Viegi G. Association of Blattella germanica sensitization with atopic diseases in pediatric allergic patients. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 521–527.

Background:  The extent to which the sensitization to the German cockroach Blattella germanica (BG) affects onset/presence of rhinoconjunctivitis (RC) in children is unknown.

Objectives:  The present work was aimed to assess the prevalence of BG sensitization in an outpatient pediatric population from an allergy clinic, the association with allergic diseases, and the effect of age in children with allergic sensitization.

Methods:  Five hundred and four consecutive children with at least one positive skin test to a panel of 17 food and inhalant allergens, including BG, and with personal history of atopic diseases, were enrolled in an Allergy Unit of Palermo, Mediterranean area of Southern Italy. A questionnaire was administered to obtain data on epidemiologic and clinical characteristics. Atopy index was computed as the number of the individual positive skin prick tests. Logistic regression was used to estimate the associations between age classes and BG sensitization and RC, as well as the population‐attributable risk (PAR) for RC.

Results:  Prevalence of BG sensitization was 10.5% (5.2% and 15.8% in lower and upper age classes respectively, p = 0.0001). Atopy index significantly increased from the lower to the higher age class (p < 0.0001). The older age class (OR 3.12; 95% CI 1.57–6.19) and a higher atopy index (OR 37.16; 95% CI 5.04–274.13) were recognized as main risks factors for BG sensitization.

Conclusion:  In the upper age class, the PAR of BG sensitization for RC was 20.6%. BG sensitization increases in the higher ages, along with atopic index, and BG sensitization is associated with rhinoconjunctivis in older allergic children.
Efficient computation of the genomic relationship matrix and other matrices used in single‐step evaluation
Authors: Aguilar I. , Misztal I. , Legarra A. , Tsuruta S.
Published: January 2011

Genomic evaluations can be calculated using a unified procedure that combines phenotypic, pedigree and genomic information. Implementation of such a procedure requires the inverse of the relationship matrix based on pedigree and genomic relationships. The objective of this study was to investigate efficient computing options to create relationship matrices based on genomic markers and pedigree information as well as their inverses. SNP maker information was simulated for a panel of 40 K SNPs, with the number of genotyped animals up to 30 000. Matrix multiplication in the computation of the genomic relationship was by a simple ‘do’ loop, by two optimized versions of the loop, and by a specific matrix multiplication subroutine. Inversion was by a generalized inverse algorithm and by a LAPACK subroutine. With the most efficient choices and parallel processing, creation of matrices for 30 000 animals would take a few hours. Matrices required to implement a unified approach can be computed efficiently. Optimizations can be either by modifications of existing code or by the use of efficient automatic optimizations provided by open source or third‐party libraries.
Sperm motility‐initiating substance in newt egg‐jelly induces differential initiation of sperm motility based on sperm intracellular calcium levels
Authors: Watanabe Akihiko , Takayama‐Watanabe Eriko , Vines Carol A. , Cherr Gary N.
Published: January 2011

Sperm motility‐initiating substance (SMIS), a novel motility inducer from newt egg‐jelly, is activated by the release from associated jelly substances at the beginning of internal fertilization and affects female‐stored sperm. We examined motility initiation kinetics of newt sperm in response to SMIS by monitoring the changes of sperm intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i). In quiescent non‐motile sperm loaded with the Ca2+ indicator Fluo‐4, intracellular free Ca2+ was observed around mitochondria using confocal scanning laser microscopy. A slight increase in [Ca2+]i occurred simultaneously and transiently at motility initiation in sperm treated with either heated jelly extract (hJE) containing activated SMIS, or a low osmotic solution, which naturally initiates motility in externally‐fertilizing amphibians and can initiate motility in urodele sperm. When the increase of [Ca2+]i at motility‐initiation was monitored using spectrofluorometry, large increases in [Ca2+]i occurred immediately in the low osmotic solution and within 1.5 min in the hJE. In the intact jelly extract (no heating), small increases of [Ca2+]i irregularly occurred from around 1 min and for about 4 min, during which motility was differentially initiated among sperm. These results indicate that the SMIS induces differential initiation of sperm motility depending on the activational states of the SMIS and its overall activity. The motility initiation in the jelly extract was delayed in sperm whose intracellular Ca2+ had been chelated with BAPTA‐AM. The relative levels of [Ca2+]i were variable with a mean of 414 ± 256 nmol/L among resting sperm, suggesting that the level of [Ca2+]i in the resting sperm modulates the responsiveness to the SMIS.
Embryonic ionocytes in the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax): Structure and functionality
Authors: Sucré Elliott , Charmantier‐Daures Mireille , Grousset Evelyse , Cucchi‐Mouillot Patricia
Published: January 2011

Early ionocytes have been studied in the European sea bass (Dicentrarchus labrax) embryos. Structural and functional aspects were analyzed and compared with those observed in the same conditions (38 ppt) in post hatching stages. Immunolocalization of Na+/K+‐ATPase (NKA) in embryos revealed the presence of ionocytes on the yolk sac membrane from a stage 12 pair of somites (S), and an original cluster around the first gill slits from stage 14S. Histological investigations suggested that from these cells, close to the future gill chambers, originate the ionocytes observed on gill arches and gill filaments after hatching. Triple immunocytochemical staining, including NKA, various Na+/K+/2Cl− cotransporters (NKCCs) and the chloride channel “cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator” (CFTR), point to the occurrence of immature and mature ionocytes in early and late embryonic stages at different sites. These observations were completed with transmission electronic microscopy. The degree of functionality of ionocytes is discussed according to these results. Yolk sac membrane ionocytes and enteric ionocytes seem to have an early role in embryonic osmoregulation, whereas gill slits tegumentary ionocytes are presumed to be fully efficient after hatching.
Polo‐like kinase 1 is required for localization of Posterior End Mark protein to the centrosome‐attracting body and unequal cleavages in ascidian embryos
Authors: Negishi Takefumi , Kumano Gaku , Nishida Hiroki
Published: January 2011

In ascidian embryos, the posterior‐localized maternal factor Posterior End Mark (PEM) is responsible for patterning embryos along the anterior‐posterior axis with regard to both cleavage pattern involving unequal cell divisions and gene expression. Although PEM plays important roles in embryogenesis, its mechanism of action is still unclear because PEM has no known functional domain. In the present study, we explored the candidate of PEM partner proteins in Halocynthia roretzi using yeast two‐hybrid screening. We isolated a homologue of Polo‐like kinase 1 (Plk1), a key regulator of cell division and highly conserved in eukaryotes, as the first potential binding partner of PEM. We biochemically confirmed that interaction occurred between the Plk1 and PEM proteins. Immunostaining showed that Plk1 protein concentrates in the centrosome‐attracting body (CAB) at the posterior pole, where PEM protein is also localized. The CAB is a subcellular structure that plays an important role in generating the posterior cleavage pattern. Plk1 localization to the CAB was dependent on the cell cycle phases during unequal cleavage. Inhibition of Plk1 with specific drugs resulted in failure of the nucleus to migrate towards the posterior pole and formation of a microtubule bundle between the CAB and a centrosome, similarly to inhibition of PEM function, suggesting that both proteins are involved in the same process of unequal cleavages. This interrupted nuclear migration was rescued by overexpression of PEM. In Plk1‐inhibited embryos, the localization of PEM protein to the CAB was impaired, indicating that Plk1 is required for appropriate localization of PEM.
Antioxidant defense and apoptotic effectors in ascorbic acid and β‐glycerophosphate‐induced osteoblastic differentiation
Authors: Chaves Neto Antonio Hernandes , Machado Daisy , Yano Cláudia Lumy , Ferreira Carmen Veríssima
Published: January 2011

MC3T3‐E1 cells grown in the presence of ascorbic acid and β‐glycerophosphate (AA/β‐GP) express alkaline phosphatase and produce an extensive collagenous extracellular matrix. Differentiated MC3T3‐E1 cells are more sensitive to hydrogen peroxide‐induced oxidative stress than undifferentiated cells. In this study, we compared the profile of antioxidant enzymes and molecular markers of apoptosis in undifferentiated and differentiated MC3T3‐E1 cells (cell differentiation was induced by treatment with AA/β‐GP). Differentiated osteoblasts showed lower expression and activity of catalase, glutathione S‐transferase and glutathione peroxidase. The total superoxide dismutase activity and the expression of Cu/Zn superoxide dismutase were also lower, while the expression of Mn superoxide dismutase was higher in differentiated osteoblasts. The level of malondialdehyde, a widely used marker for oxidative stress, was lower in the AA/β‐GP group compared with control cells, but this difference was not significant. Western blotting showed that treatment with AA/β‐GP increased the Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio used as an index of cellular vulnerability to apoptosis. In addition, the activities of caspases 3, 8 and 9 and cleaved poly (ADP) ribose polymerase were significantly higher in differentiated cells. These findings provide new insights into how changes in the activities of major antioxidant enzymes and in the signaling pathways associated with apoptosis may influence the susceptibility of bone cells to oxidative stress.
Involvement of Delta and Nodal signals in the specification process of five types of secondary mesenchyme cells in embryo of the sea urchin, Hemicentrotus pulcherrimus
Authors: Ohguro Yukari , Takata Hiromi , Kominami Tetsuya
Published: January 2011

Secondary mesenchyme cells (SMCs) of the sea urchin embryo are composed of pigment cells, blastocoelar cells, spicule tip cells, coelomic pouch cells and muscle cells. To learn how and when these five types of SMCs are specified in the veg2 descendants, Notch or Nodal signaling was blocked with γ‐secretase inhibitor or Nodal receptor inhibitor, respectively. All types of SMCs were decreased with DAPT, while sensitivity to this inhibitor varied among them. Pulse‐treatment revealed that five types of SMCs are divided into “early” (pigment cells and blastocoelar cells) and “late” (spicule tip cells, coelomic pouch cells and muscle cells) groups; the “early” group was sensitive to DAPT up to the hatching, and the “late” group was sensitive until the mesenchyme blastula stage. Judging from timing of the shift of Delta‐expressing regions, it was suggested that the “early” group and “late” groups are derived from the lower and the middle tier of veg2 descendants, respectively. Interestingly, numbers of SMCs were also altered with SB431542; blastocoelar cells, coelomic pouch cells and circum‐esophageal muscles decreased, whereas pigment cells and spicule tip cells increased in number. Pulse‐treatment showed that the “early” group was sensitive up to the mesenchyme blastula stage, while the “late” group up to the onset of gastrulation. Thus, it became clear that precursor cells of the “early” and “late” groups, which are located in different regions in the vegetal plate, receive Delta and Nodal signals at different timings, resulting in the diversification of SMCs. Based on the obtained results, the specification processes of five types of SMCs are diagrammatically presented.
An autopsied case of V180I Creutzfeldt‐Jakob disease presenting with panencephalopathic‐type pathology and a characteristic prion protein type
Authors: Iwasaki Yasushi , Mori Keiko , Ito Masumi , Nagaoka Masamitsu , Ieda Toshiaki , Kitamoto Tetsuyuki , Yoshida Mari , Hashizume Yoshio
Published: January 2011

A 73‐year‐old Japanese woman showed slowly progressive aphasia, apraxia and dementia. She had no family history of prion disease or dementia. One year later she showed parkinsonism and corticobasal degeneration was initially suspected. On MRI, the left temporal neocortex seemed swollen on T2‐weighted images in the initial stage, and a later high‐signal intensity region was observed in the cerebral cortex in diffusion‐weighted images. The patient developed myoclonus and an akinetic mutism state 15 months and 22 months after onset, respectively. Consecutive electroencephalography revealed no periodic sharp‐wave complexes. Prion protein (PrP) gene analysis revealed a valine to isoleucine point mutation at codon 180, and methionine homozygosity at codon 129. This patient's clinical symptoms and disease course were atypical for Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease (CJD), and a stable state with nasal tube‐feeding lasted several years. She died of respiratory failure at the age of 81, 102 months after the onset. Autopsy revealed widespread spongiform degeneration with weak synaptic‐type PrP deposition, confirming the diagnosis of genetic CJD. Neurons in the cerebral cortex were relatively preserved in number and hypertrophic astrocytosis was generally moderate for such long‐term disease, but cerebral white matter showed diffuse severe myelin pallor with tissue rarefaction suggestive of panencephalopatic‐type pathology. The cerebellar cortex was relatively well preserved with observation of mild spongiform change in the molecular layer, moderate neuron loss in the Purkinje neuron layer, and scattered small plaque‐like PrP deposition. Western blot analysis of protease‐resistant PrP showed a characteristic pattern without a diglycoform band. V180I CJD is an interesting form of genetic CJD with regards to the clinicopathologic, molecular and genetic findings.
The presence of stem cell marker‐expressing cells is not prognostically significant in glioblastomas
Authors: Kim Kyung‐Jung , Lee Kyung‐Hwa , Kim Hyung‐Seok , Moon Kyung‐Sub , Jung Tae‐Young , Jung Shin , Lee Min‐Cheol
Published: January 2011

Glioblastoma is one of the most frequent primary brain tumors and is characterized by aggressive clinical behavior and biologic heterogeneity. To evaluate the prognostic implication of cancer stem cell markers in glioblastoma, the expression of these markers was investigated in a large series of glioblastoma patients in relation to the survival rate. This series includes 88 cases of glioblastoma that were diagnosed at the Chonnam University Hwasun Hospital from 2004 to 2009. The expression of newly established stem cell markers (nestin, CD133 and CD15) was detected using immunohistochemical analysis. The presence of immunopositive tumor cells was evaluated and interpreted in comparison with the patients' survival data. The expression of nestin was high in 60 cases (68.2%). CD133 and CD15 were positive in 52 cases (59.1%) and 40 cases (45.5%), respectively. No statistically significant difference in patient survival according to stem cell marker expression was observed (P > 0.05). However, gross total resection or combined radiation therapy and chemotherapy significantly prolonged survival (P = 0.04 and P = 0.04). Cox's proportional hazards model showed that the gross total resection and combined radiation therapy and chemotherapy were independent prognostic factors. Although the correlation of stem cell marker expression with clinical outcome in glioma is of considerable interest, the data do not support their prognostic value in glioblastoma. Identification of the key cells in the glioblastoma population in the context of clinical outcomes will provide insight into the mechanism of brain tumorigenesis and will be of paramount importance in determining therapeutically appropriate targets.
Usage of spacers in respiratory laboratories and the delivered salbutamol dose of spacers available in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: HALL GRAHAM L. , ANNESE TERESA , LOOI KEVIN , DEVADASON SUNALENE G.
Published: January 2011

Background and objective:  Purchase and disinfection costs together with medication delivery factors may influence the choice of drug delivery options. This study assessed salbutamol delivery habits used in respiratory laboratories and quantified the delivered salbutamol dose of locally available spacers.

Methods:  An online survey was used to obtain data on disinfection processes, costs and delivery device choices. The delivered dose of six commercial spacers was assessed. Particle size distribution of salbutamol (Ventolin, GSK, 100 µg/actuation) from six spacers of each type was measured by quantifying the amount of drug (µg) deposited on each stage of an Anderson Cascade Impactor (ACI) using UV spectrophotometry. Clinical conditions were simulated using a flow volume simulator (FVS) and delivery of salbutamol via a pressurized metered dose inhaler and spacer to a low‐resistance filter was measured.

Results:  Fifty survey responses were obtained, with 37 (74%) using ≥1 type of spacer of which 92% processed single use spacers. The most commonly used spacers were Volumatic (n = 24), Breath‐a‐tech (n = 8) and Space Chamber (n = 7). The median disinfection cost was $2.45. Delivered salbutamol dose varied significantly and ranged from 16.98 to 38.28 µg with the ACI and 22.56 to 58.82 µg with the FVS. Using the FVS, small‐volume spacers delivered similar doses (22.56 to 28.46 µg), while large‐volume spacers delivery was more varied (24.31 to 58.82 µg).

Conclusions:  The majority of respiratory laboratories had not updated re‐processing policies to comply with new regulations. The delivered salbutamol dose varied significantly and this might effect the choice of preferred spacer type.