bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic advances will herald new insights into the Brassica: Leptosphaeria maculans pathosystem
Authors: Hayward A. , McLanders J. , Campbell E. , Edwards D. , Batley J.
Published: May 2011

The study of the relationship between plants and phytopathogenic fungi is one of the most rapidly moving fields in the plant sciences, the findings of which have contributed to the development of new strategies and technologies to protect crops. Plants employ sophisticated mechanisms to perceive and appropriately defend themselves against pathogens. A good example of plant and pathogen evolution is the gene‐for‐gene interaction between the fungal pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans, the causal agent of blackleg disease, and Brassica crops. This interaction has been studied at the genetic and physiological level due to its agro‐economic importance. The newly available genome sequence for Brassica spp. and L. maculans will provide the resources to study the co‐evolution of this plant and pathogen. Particularly, an understanding of the co‐evolution of genes responsible for virulence and resistance will lead to improved plant protection strategies for Brassica canola and provide a model to understand plant–pathogen interactions in other major crops. This review summarises the research‐to‐date in the study of the Brassica–L. maculans gene‐for‐gene interaction, with a focus on the genetics of resistance in Brassica and the wealth of information to be gained from genome sequencing efforts.
Synergistic effects of geographical strain, temperature and larval food on insecticide tolerance in Callosobruchus maculatus (F.)
Authors: Gbaye O. A. , Millard J. C. , Holloway G. J.
Published: May 2011

This study investigated the multifactorial interaction of various environmental factors including geographical strain (Brazil, Cameroon and Yemen strains), temperature, dose and larval food (cowpea and mungbean) on the response of Callosobruchus maculatus adult to insecticide. All the main factors, their two‐way interactions and the four‐way interaction had significant effects on C. maculatus response to malathion (an organophosphate insecticide). However, the three‐way interactions were not statistically significant (except strain × food × dose, P = 0.002). The Brazil strain was the most responsive to temperature irrespective of the larval food type. The impact of food type differs from one strain to the other; for instance, the food that imparts higher tolerance in a strain might reduce the tolerance in another. Likewise, the hierarchy of tolerance among the cowpea‐reared strains (Brazil > Cameroon > Yemen) was totally different from that of the mungbean‐reared strains (Cameroon > Yemen > Brazil). The reasons for these differences were discussed in the light of their impact on C. maculatus management. Both the management of C. maculatus and development of resistance could be complex; hence, the states of a variety of environmental factors need to be considered. This is necessary to maximize management success of this bruchid, especially in tropical/subtropical developing countries.
The Comparison of Treating Holstein Dairy Cows with Progesterone, CIDR and GnRH After Insemination on Serum Progesterone and Pregnancy Rates
Authors: Mehni SB , Shabankareh HK , Kazemi‐Bonchenari M , Eghbali M
Published: May 2011

Contents

This experiment was conducted to investigate the effects of different exogenous progesterone sources administrated after artificial insemination (AI) on serum progesterone (P4) concentration and pregnancy rates in Holstein lactating cows. Sixty‐four lactating Holstein dairy cows were allocated to four different treatments (n = 16 per treatment): the cows 1) were injected with physiological saline on days 5 and 13 after AI (control group); 2) were injected with progesterone on days 5 and 13 after AI (P group); 3) received controlled internal drug releasing device (CIDR) for a period from day 5 to 19 after AI (CIDR group); and 4) were injected with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) agonist on days 5 and 13 after AI (GnRH group). Blood samples were collected on days 0 (AI day), 5, 13, 16 and 19 after AI to determine serum P4 concentration. The results revealed a significant difference among treatment groups for serum P4 concentration on days 13, 16 and 19 with the lowest concentration of serum P4 for the control group. The pregnancy rate was also positively affected by all the treatments with CIDR having the greatest effect on pregnancy rate. Overall, the results indicated that CIDR has the greatest effect on serum P4 concentration and pregnancy rate, although the administration of P and GnRH during days after AI increased serum P4 concentration in lactating dairy cows as well.
Risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma in a cohort infected with hepatitis B or C
Authors: Walter Scott R , Thein Hla‐Hla , Gidding Heather F , Amin Janaki , Law Matthew G , George Jacob , Dore Gregory J
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  The incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has increased in Australia in recent decades, a large and growing proportion of which occurs among a population chronically infected with hepatitis B virus (HBV) or hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, risk factors for HCC among these high‐risk groups require further characterization.

Methods:  We conducted a population‐based cohort study using HBV and HCV cases notified to the New South Wales Health Department between 2000 and 2007. These were linked to cause of death data, HIV/AIDS notifications, and hospital records. Proportional hazards regression was used to identify significant risk factors for developing HCC.

Results:  A total of 242 and 339 HCC cases were linked to HBV (n = 43 892) and HCV (n = 83 817) notifications, respectively. For both HBV and HCV groups, being male and increasing age were significantly associated with risk of HCC. Increasing comorbidity score indicated high risk, while living outside urban areas was associated with lower risk. Hazard ratios for males were two to three times those of females. For both HBV and HCV groups, cirrhosis, alcoholic liver disease, and the interaction between the two were associated with significantly and considerably elevated risk.

Conclusion:  This large population‐based study confirms known risk factors for HCC. The association with older age highlights the potential impact of HBV and HCV screening of at‐risk groups and early clinical assessment. Additional research is required to evaluate the impact of improving antiviral therapy on HCC risk.
Endoscopic ultrasound‐guided fine‐needle aspiration of lesions near the aortoiliac bifurcation via an upper gastrointestinal approach
Authors: Doi Shinpei , Yasuda Ichiro , Nakashima Masanori , Kawaguchi Junji , Yamauchi Takahiro , Iwashita Takuji , Toda Katsuhisa , Adachi Seiji , Shimizu Masahito , Tsurumi Hisashi , Moriwaki Hisataka
Published: May 2011

Background and Aims:  Endoscopic ultrasound (EUS)‐guided fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) is widely used to investigate posterior mediastinal and upper abdominal lesions. Previously, we noticed that the aortoiliac bifurcation can be visualized by transduodenal EUS scanning, and the surrounding area might be a potential target for EUS‐guided FNA. This study aimed to determine the feasibility of using EUS‐guided FNA to study lesions near the aortoiliac bifurcation via the upper gastrointestinal approach.

Methods:  This study was a prospective pilot study of consecutive patients with a lesion of unknown origin near the aortoiliac bifurcation.

Results:  EUS‐guided FNA was used in six patients. The aortoiliac bifurcation was visible from the inferior duodenal angle in all patients; however, the lesions could be visualized in only five patients (3 via the transduodenal approach, and 2 via the transgastric approach). In one patient with a lesion on the left side, the lesion could not be visualized by either the transgastric or transduodenal approach. In the other five patients, EUS‐guided FNA was successful, and FNA specimens were adequate for histopathological assessment. The diagnoses were lymphoma (n = 3), plasmacytoma (n = 1), and neurinoma (n = 1). All lymphoma cases were subclassified as diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (n = 2) or grade 2 follicular lymphoma (n = 1). No complications were observed.

Conclusions:  The aortoiliac bifurcation was visible in all patients by transduodenal EUS scanning. FNA of the legions near the aortoiliac bifurcation was possible in five of six patients by using either the transgastric or transduodenal approach.
Contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography using Sonazoid to evaluate changes in hepatic hemodynamics in acute liver injury
Authors: Miyazaki Masayuki , Kato Masaki , Tanaka Masatake , Tanaka Kosuke , Takao Shinichiro , Kohjima Motoyuki , Ito Tetsuhide , Enjoji Munechika , Nakamuta Makoto , Kotoh Kazuhiro , Takayanagi Ryoichi
Published: May 2011

Background and Aims:  Disturbances in hepatic microcirculation are believed to be involved in the mechanisms regulating the progression of acute liver injury (ALI). Evaluation of hepatic hemodynamics in patients with acute liver injury might be helpful in understanding the extent of the intrahepatic microcirculatory disturbances. Therefore, we investigated whether contrast‐enhanced ultrasonography (CEUS) is useful to evaluate the changes in hepatic hemodynamics in patients with ALI.

Methods:  CEUS was performed in 21 patients with ALI and coagulopathy. Participants were injected with 0.0075 mL Sonazoid/kg body weight, and time‐intensity curves were simultaneously recorded for the hepatic and portal veins. The data were compared with those of 10 healthy volunteers.

Results:  The arrival time of Sonazoid in the hepatic vein was similar to that in the portal vein in the patients, whereas the arrival time in the hepatic vein was delayed relative to that in the portal vain in the controls (interval between the hepatic and portal vein arrival times, control vs patients 6.74 ± 3.07 s vs 1.13 ± 1.07 s, P < 0.001). Repeated examination revealed that the interval between the hepatic and portal vein arrival times was extended by improvements in hepatic function. The early arrival of Sonazoid in the hepatic vein in the patients is likely to reflect the formation of intrahepatic shunts as a result of hepatic microcirculatory disturbances.

Conclusion:  CEUS using Sonazoid is a useful method to estimate the changes in hepatic hemodynamics in patients with ALI.
Complete resolution of advanced Mycoplasma pneumoniae encephalitis mimicking brain mass lesions: Report of two pediatric cases and review of literature
Authors: Simpkins Alexis , Strickland Suzanne M. , Oliver Joyce , Murray Dennis L. , Steele John C.H. , Park Yong D. , Sharma Suash
Published: May 2011

Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a well‐known cause of atypical pneumonia. CNS involvement is a relatively frequent extrapulmonary manifestation, most commonly manifesting as encephalitis in the pediatric population. We present two unusual cases of M. pneumoniae encephalitis that presented with symptoms and imaging findings suggesting mass occupying lesions, and worsening altered mental status. Biopsy of the lesions was necessary in both cases to aid with diagnosis. Histopathologic features excluded neoplasm, and established the diagnosis of encephalitis, but did not point toward its etiology. The only finding that indicated M. pneumoniae as the most likely pathogen was serum IgM positivity in the absence of any other identifiable infectious source, and complete neurologic recovery following specific anti‐mycoplasmal treatment. The patients were successfully treated with antibiotics and steroids, with the second case also requiring intravenous immunoglobulin and anti‐epileptics. The clinical presentation and histopathologic findings suggested an immune‐mediated pathogenesis, but acute disseminated encephalomyelitis was excluded due to extensive gray matter involvement. Disease resolution despite status epilepticus and herniation in case 2 is a novel finding of the study. Current principles of diagnosis and management of encephalitis as the presenting manifestation of mycoplasmal infection are discussed.
Use and disclosure of genetic information without consent: a decision‐making tool for health practitioners – who, when, why and how?
Authors:   National Health and Medical Research Council
Published: May 2011

Background:  As a result of legislative changes to the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth), Australian health practitioners in the private sector are now permitted to use or disclose patients' genetic information, without their consent, in circumstances where the health practitioner reasonably believes that doing so is necessary to lessen or prevent a serious threat to the life, health or safety of a genetic relative.

Aim:  This article aims to increase the reader's awareness of Guidelines developed by the National Health and Medical Research Council which are intended to assist health practitioners in making decisions about the use or disclosure of genetic information in certain circumstances.

Discussion:  The Guidelines establish when, by whom and in what manner, use or disclosure of genetic information may take place. The Guidelines outline the factors that health practitioners should consider when determining whether use or disclosure is necessary to lessen or prevent a serious threat to an individual's life, health or safety.
Distal urethroplasty for isolated fossa navicularis and meatal strictures
Authors: Meeks Joshua J. , Barbagli Guido , Mehdiratta Nitin , Granieri Michael A. , Gonzalez Chris M.
Published: May 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Strictures of the distal urethra/fossa navicularis are often difficult to manage and objective and patient reported outcomes have not been described.”

Meatotomy is highly successful in terms of both stricture recurrence and patient satisfaction. Meatoplasty, while often reserved for more complicated and long strictures, has a high rate of success. Men with lichen sclerosus have a higher rate of stricture recurrence with meatal repairs.

OBJECTIVE

• Urethral strictures located in the fossa navicularis are common and are often managed with meatotomy or meatoplasty.

• Few data have described the outcomes for men after urethroplasty or patient satisfaction following these procedures.

METHODS

• In all, 93 men at two different institutions underwent surgical repair of distal urethral stricture disease using meatotomy (73) or meatoplasty (20), with 13/20 (65%) of the latter group undergoing substitution urethroplasty.

• In patients with lichen sclerosus (LS), all involved tissue was excised prior to reconstruction.

• In a subset of men undergoing meatotomy, patient satisfaction was evaluated by questionnaire.

RESULTS

• Average clinical follow‐up for men undergoing distal urethroplasty was 61 months.

• Successful reconstruction requiring no further intervention occurred in 84% of men overall. Subgroup analysis revealed success in 87% of men with meatotomy, 75% with meatoplasty and 66% with substitution urethroplasty.

• Men with LS had a significantly greater rate of stricture recurrence (20.5% vs 7.5%, P= 0.04).

• Of the subset of men who completed a patient‐based questionnaire 84% reported they were either satisfied or very satisfied with the results of their meatotomy.

CONCLUSIONS

• We report the success of distal urethral stricture management.

• Meatal strictures may be approached successfully in a stepwise manner progressing from meatotomy to meatoplasty for longer recurrent strictures, with a high overall success rate for meatotomy.

• Although substitution grafts may be useful for men with longer distal strictures and those with LS, the risk of recurrence was significantly higher in this cohort.
Trends in adverse events of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) in the USA, 1998 to 2008
Authors: Stroup Sean P. , Palazzi‐Churas Kerrin , Kopp Ryan P. , Parsons J. Kellogg
Published: May 2011

Study Type – Harm (Cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

In clinical trials, oral medications for BPH have been effective at managing LUTS and preventing progression to urinary retention, urinary infections, and renal insufficiency. Population‐level trends of these adverse outcomes are poorly characterized. We identified a 400% increase in hospitalizations for BPH with acute renal failure, indicating that severe adverse events of BPH persist despite widespread use of oral therapies in the USA.

OBJECTIVE

• To determine if the adverse events (AEs) of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) have declined in tandem with increased use of oral therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

• We used the Nationwide Inpatient Sample, a 20% sample of USA community hospitals, weighted to estimate national numbers to characterize the prevalence of AEs of BPH from 1998 to 2008.

• We calculated the age‐adjusted prevalence of BPH and associated conditions and analyzed prevalence trends with regression modelling.

RESULTS

• Of 134 million estimated eligible discharges during the study period, 7 464 730 (5.6%) had either a primary or secondary diagnosis of BPH.

• The age‐adjusted prevalence of BPH among all hospitalizations, irrespective of primary diagnosis, increased from 4.3% to 8% (P < 0.001) during the study period.

• The age‐adjusted prevalence of BPH as a primary diagnosis decreased from 0.88% to 0.48% (P < 0.001).

• Discharges for BPH surgery decreased 51% (odds ratio [OR] 0.49, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.45–0.54, P‐trend <0.001) over time. Discharges for primary BPH with acute renal failure increased >400% (OR 4.28, 95% CI 3.22–5.71, P‐trend <0.001).

• There were no significant changes in discharges for primary BPH with urinary retention (P‐trend = 0.636), bladder stones (P‐trend = 0.117), or urinary infection (P‐trend = 0.101) over time.

CONCLUSIONS

• Increased hospitalizations for BPH with acute renal failure and stable hospitalizations for other AEs of BPH indicate that severe AEs of BPH persist despite widespread use of oral therapies in the USA.

• Further studies are needed to explain these trends.
Bayesian Gene Set Analysis for Identifying Significant Biological Pathways
Authors: Shahbaba Babak , Tibshirani Robert , Shachaf Catherine M. , Plevritis Sylvia K.
Published: May 2011

We propose a hierarchical Bayesian model for analysing gene expression data to identify pathways differentiating between two biological states (e.g. cancer versus non-cancer). Finding significant pathways can improve our understanding of normal and pathological processes and can lead to more effective treatments. Our method, Bayesian gene set analysis, evaluates the statistical significance of a specific pathway by using the posterior distribution of its corresponding hyperparameter. We apply Bayesian gene set analysis to a gene expression microarray data set on 50 cancer cell lines, of which 33 have a known p53 mutation and the remaining are p53 wild type, to identify pathways that are associated with the mutational status in the gene p53. We identify several significant pathways with strong biological connections. We show that our approach provides a natural framework for incorporating prior biological information, and it produces the best overall performance in terms of correctly identifying significant pathways compared with several alternative methods.
Psychometric properties of the Bermond‐Vorst Alexithymia Questionnaire in Japanese
Authors: KASHIMURA MASAMI , OGAWA TOSHIKI , VORST HARRIE C. M. , BERMOND BOB
Published: May 2011

The aim of this research is to investigate the psychometric properties of the Japanese version of the Bermond‐Vorst Alexithymia Questionnaire (BVAQ‐J), by testing a sample of 514 undergraduates. Explanatory factor analysis of 40 items of the BVAQ‐J had a similar result to the original BVAQ (Vorst & Bermond, 2001), but 10 items displayed low factor loadings (items 14, 15, 19, 25, 29, 34, 35, 36, 37, and 39); these results were slightly different from the original BVAQ. The validity and reliability of the BVAQ‐30J was suggested by a significant correlation with the Toronto Alexithymia Scale‐20 and estimates of test‐retest and internal consistency. These results suggest that this 30‐item version may be reasonably suitable for Japanese populations.
Corneal biomechanical properties measured with the Ocular Response Analyser in a myopic population
Authors: Plakitsi Athina , O’Donnell Clare , A Miranda Marco , Charman W Neil , Radhakrishnan Hema
Published: May 2011

Citation information: Plakitsi A, O’Donnell C, Miranda MA, Charman WN & Radhakrishnan H. Corneal biomechanical properties measured with the Ocular Response Analyser in a myopic population. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 404–412. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00852.x

Purpose:  To explore the possible association between myopia and corneal biomechanical properties in a Caucasian population, and the correlations between the properties of right and left eyes.

Methods:  Corneal hysteresis (CH) and corneal resistance factor (CRF) were measured using the Ocular Response Analyser (ORA) in both eyes of 95 normal adult subjects aged between 19 and 48 years. The spherical equivalent refractive errors of the participants ranged from 0.25 to −14.00 D. The mean CH and CRF values for the right and left eyes were recorded for each subject. CH and CRF data were compared between different refractive groups.

Results:  CH was found to be slightly lower in high myopes (>−6.00 D, mean CH 10.0 ± 1.2 mmHg) in comparison to moderate myopes (>−3.00 to −6.00 D, 10.1 ± 1.4 mmHg) and emmetropes and low myopes (+0.25 to −2.75 D, 10.9 ± 1.5 mmHg). The decrease in CH with the degree of myopia was about 0.13 mmHg per D or roughly 1% per D (r2 = 0.084, p < 0.001). Inter‐subject variations were much greater than any systematic changes. CRF was not correlated with refractive error (r2 = 0.001, p = 0.66). Although the refractive error was highly correlated between the two eyes (r2 = 0.89, p < 0.001), CH and CRF showed a lower inter‐ocular correlation (r2 = 0.68, p < 0.001 and r2 = 0.77, p < 0.001 respectively).

Conclusions:  These findings may indicate that the viscoelastic properties of the cornea are altered to a minor extent in myopia. However, in this normal population, any overall systematic changes in CH and CRF with refractive error were small in comparison with the considerable inter‐subject scatter at any level of refraction.
Comparison of the effectiveness of two enhanced glaucoma referral schemes
Authors: Parkins David J , Edgar David F
Published: May 2011

Citation information: Parkins DJ & Edgar DF. Comparison of the effectiveness of two enhanced glaucoma referral schemes. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 343–352. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00853.x

Purpose:  To compare the clinical and financial effectiveness of two optometric‐led enhanced glaucoma referral schemes in the Bexley Care Trust area.

Methods:  Over a 12‐month period all suspect glaucoma/Ocular Hypertension (OHT) referrals from optometrists relating to patients registered with Bexley GPs were analysed. All these patients were examined under one of two schemes. One was an enhanced glaucoma repeat measurement (EGRM) scheme in which the referring optometrist conducted the repeated tests him/herself prior to referral or non‐referral. The alternative was a refinement pathway (RCAS) using a small team of accredited community optometrists.

Results:  During the full year commencing April 2007, repeat measures using the EGRM scheme resulted in 76% of patients not being referred. In 44.5% of all EGRM patients, where raised intraocular pressure (IOP) was found by non‐contact tonometry (NCT), repeated measurement by Goldmann/Perkins applanation tonometry resulted in readings that were <22 mmHg, or that had less than a 5 mmHg difference between the two eyes. Financial review demonstrated that the EGRM achieved 62% savings when compared with HES tariff while RCAS resulted in a saving of 3.5%.

Conclusions:  Using a primary care repeat measurement scheme to support referral decision‐making demonstrated substantial cost benefit while onward referral for refinement by accredited optometrists was essentially cost‐neutral compared with HES tariff. Local schemes foster fragmentation and consideration should be given to a service which covers a large population area.
Temporal evolution of ocular aberrations following laser in situ keratomileusis
Authors: Benito Antonio , Redondo Manuel , Artal Pablo
Published: May 2011

Citation information: Benito A, Redondo M & Artal P. Temporal evolution of ocular aberrations following laser in situ keratomileusis. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 421–428. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00854.x

Purpose:  To study the temporal evolution of ocular aberrations after standard LASIK to correct myopia.

Methods:  The ocular, corneal and internal aberrations for a 6‐mm pupil were measured in 22 young myopic eyes (n = 12 subjects; range −2.0 to−7.6 D) before and during a 9‐month follow‐up after standard myopic LASIK. Ocular aberrations were measured with a Hartmann‐Shack wavefront sensor, while corneal aberrations were estimated from the elevation data obtained by corneal topography. For every patient and condition the eye’s modulation transfer function (MTF) and Strehl ratio (SR) were calculated.

Results:  Compared to preoperative results, we found that standard myopic LASIK produced a significant increase of ocular high‐order aberrations at 1 month after surgery. During the next 8 months, we found a small increase of ocular and corneal positive spherical aberration (SA), although with a large inter‐subject variability. However, all eyes treated for myopia higher than −5 D showed a significant increase of positive SA during the first 6 months after surgery.

Conclusions:  Standard myopic LASIK decreases ocular optical quality. For most subjects, the increase in aberrations induced by the surgery was stable during the next 9 months after LASIK. However, further changes of the ocular SA after myopic LASIK are possible in patients treated for higher amounts of myopia. The changes in aberrations mainly appeared between the first and the sixth month after surgery, which suggests the need to wait at least 6 months after myopic LASIK before comparing outcomes, especially for patients treated for higher myopias.
Adenosine negatively regulates duodenal motility in mice: role of A1 and A2A receptors
Authors: Zizzo MG , Mastropaolo M , Lentini L , Mulè F , Serio R
Published: May 2011

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Adenosine is considered to be an important modulator of intestinal motility. This study was undertaken to investigate the role of adenosine in the modulation of contractility in the mouse duodenum and to characterize the adenosine receptor subtypes involved.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH RT‐PCR was used to investigate the expression of mRNA encoding for A1, A2A, A2B and A3 receptors. Contractile activity was examined in vitro as changes in isometric tension.

KEY RESULTS In mouse duodenum, all four classes of adenosine receptors were expressed, with the A2B receptor subtype being confined to the mucosal layer. Adenosine caused relaxation of mouse longitudinal duodenal muscle; this was antagonized by the A1 receptor antagonist and mimicked by N6‐cyclopentyladenosine (CPA), selective A1 agonist. The relaxation induced by A1 receptor activation was insensitive to tetrodotoxin (TTX) or Nω‐nitro‐l‐arginine methyl ester (l‐NAME). Adenosine also inhibited cholinergic contractions evoked by neural stimulation, effect reversed by the A1 receptor antagonist, but not myogenic contractions induced by carbachol. CPA and 2‐p‐(2‐carboxyethyl) phenethylamino‐5′‐N‐ethylcarboxamidoadenosine hydrochloride hydrate (CGS‐21680), A2A receptor agonist, both inhibited the nerve‐evoked cholinergic contractions. l‐NAME prevented only the CGS‐21680‐induced effects. S‐(4‐Nitrobenzyl)‐6‐thioinosine, a nucleoside uptake inhibitor, reduced the amplitude of nerve‐evoked cholinergic contractions, an effect reversed by an A2A receptor antagonist or l‐NAME.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Adenosine can negatively regulate mouse duodenal motility either by activating A1 inhibitory receptors located post‐junctionally or controlling neurotransmitter release via A1 or A2A receptors. Both receptors are available for pharmacological recruitment, even if only A2A receptors appear to be preferentially stimulated by endogenous adenosine.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is commented on by Antonioli et al., pp. 1577–1579 of this issue. To view this commentary visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2011.01529.x
The Arabic theory of astral influences in early modern medicine
Authors: SAIF LIANA
Published: May 2011

Medicine and the occult in the Renaissance were conceptually related. They were both considered as etiological pursuits that investigate the manifest and hidden causes of human conditions. Astrological medicine specifically depends on the notion that the stars are higher causes of human ailments. This notion permeated the medical thought of the Renaissance. But how can astrology be reconciled with medicine? During the Golden Age of Islam, some Arabic astrologers justified the belief in astral influences by composing a theory that explains ‘scientifically’ why the stars above had such a strong influence on the sublunary world and how their influence could be utilized and harnessed for the benefit of man generally and his health specifically. These Arabic astrologers considered medicine and astrology as complementing one another; the former investigates terrestrial causes and the latter the celestial ones which themselves determine the conditions surrounding human beings. During the Western Renaissance, many of the physicians and occultists were acquainted with the works of such Arabic astrologers and appropriated their theory of astral influences to defend their occult thought and practices. In this article, I discuss the impact of the Arabic theory of astral influences on the medicine of Marsilio Ficino (1433–1499) and Jean Fernel (1497–1558).
Atrial Fibrillation in Chronic Hemodialysis Patients: Prevalence, Types, Predictors, and Treatment Practices in Greece
Authors: Tsagalis George , Bakirtzi Nerantzoula , Manios Efstathios , Chouliaras Ioannis , Papagiannidou Parthenia , Stamellou Eleni , Akrivos Theodore , Makris Fotis , Psimenou Erasinia , Koutroubas George , Xinos Koustantinos , Vemmos Koustantinos
Published: May 2011

Atrial fibrillation (AF), the most common sustained arrhythmia in clinical practice, is associated with increased mortality and cardiovascular morbidity both in nonuremic and (recently) in dialysis patients. The aims of this study are: (i) to assess the prevalence of AF, the risk factors, and predictors of its presence in a cohort of incident hemodialysis (HD) patients in Greece and (ii) to report on current practices in the management of these patients. This is a prospective, cross‐sectional, multicenter study of 574 patients on a regular HD program for >6 months. Demographic characteristics, cause of renal disease, cardiovascular risk factors, medication use, dialysis data (Kt/V, dialysis method, type of dialysate), 12‐lead electrocardiogram (ECG) (interdialytic day), and cardiac echo data were collected. Pertinent demographic, ECG, and echocardiographic data were entered into univariate and multivariate analyses to evaluate associations with AF. The CHADS2 score (congestive heart failure [HF], hypertension, age ≥75, diabetes, previous stroke/transient ischemic attack [TIA]) was estimated and clinical practices in high‐risk (CHADS2 score ≥2) patients were evaluated. The cohort included 368 men (64.1%) and 206 (35.8%) women (mean age 65.1 ± 14.4 years) with a mean duration on dialysis of 72.1 ± 60.4 months. Hypertension (75.6%) and coronary artery disease (47.2%) were the commonest cardiovascular risk factors for AF. The prevalence of AF was 23.2% and showed an age‐dependent increase; in patients <50 years, AF was present in 9.3%, while in patients ≥80 years, its prevalence increased to 36.4%. Furthermore, 8.3% of patients had permanent, 1.8% persistent, 12.7% paroxysmal AF, while the prevalence of paroxysmal atrial flutter and sick sinus syndrome were 1.2 and 2%, respectively. Logistic regression analysis showed that age, smoking, left atrial and aortic root diameter, β‐blocker and α‐calcidol use, HF, and the presence of valvular calcifications (VC) on cardiac echo were independently associated to the presence of AF. VC on cardiac echo had an almost sevenfold increased association with AF (odds ratio 6.72, 95% confidence interval 3.23–13.98, P < 0.0001). Only 25.5% of high‐risk (CHADS2 score ≥2) patients were receiving anticoagulants. AF is a frequent arrhythmia in HD patients. Apart from well‐known risk factors, VC merits special attention in this patient population. Less than one‐third of high‐risk AF patients receive anticoagulants, possibly reflecting the absence of definite guidelines for the management of AF in HD patients.
Influence of Locking Bolt Location on the Mechanical Properties of an Interlocking Nail in the Canine Femur
Authors: Burns Colby G. , Litsky Alan S. , Allen Matthew J. , Johnson Kenneth A.
Published: May 2011

Objective:To determine whether the fatigue properties of an interlocking nail (ILN) construct are influenced by metaphyseal or diaphyseal location of the locking bolt.

Study Design:Ex vivo mechanical investigation.

Sample Population:Adult canine femora (n=19 pairs).

Methods:Femora were implanted with a 6‐mm diameter ILN. In 1 femur, the ILN was locked with a 2.7 mm bolt placed in the diaphysis; the ILN in the contralateral femur was locked with a bolt placed in the metaphysis. Constructs were tested to failure in axial loading (9 pairs) or torsion (10 pairs), with failure defined as displacement>2 mm or a total of 500,000 cycles for axial loading, and rotation>45° for torsional loading. Outcome measures included initial construct stiffness, number of cycles to failure, peak load, and peak torque. After testing, microradiography and histology were used to determine the location and nature of construct failure.

Results:Metaphyseal bolts failed at higher axial loads than diaphyseal bolts (P=.03), with bolt failure because of bending at the nail‐bolt interface. All of the metaphyseal bolt constructs survived torsional testing whereas 9 of 10 diaphyseal bolt constructs failed catastrophically because of spiral fracture through the adjacent cortical bone.

Conclusions:Placement of a locking bolt in metaphyseal bone extends fatigue life under axial loading and decreases the incidence of catastrophic failure under torsional loading.
Chronic Female Pelvic Pain—Part 1: Clinical Pathoanatomy and Examination of the Pelvic Region
Authors: Apte Gail , Nelson Patricia , Brismée Jean‐Michel , Dedrick Gregory , Justiz Rafael , Sizer Phillip S.
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Chronic pelvic pain is defined as the presence of pain in the pelvic girdle region for over a 6‐month period and can arise from the gynecologic, urologic, gastrointestinal, and musculoskeletal systems. As 15% of women experience pelvic pain at some time in their lives with yearly direct medical costs estimated at $2.8 billion, effective evaluation and management strategies of this condition are necessary. This merits a thorough discussion of a systematic approach to the evaluation of chronic pelvic pain conditions, including a careful history‐taking and clinical examination. The challenge of accurately diagnosing chronic pelvic pain resides in the degree of peripheral and central sensitization of the nervous system associated with the chronicity of the symptoms, as well as the potential influence of the affective and biopsychosocial factors on symptom development as persistence. Once the musculoskeletal origin of the symptoms is identified, a clinical examination schema that is based on the location of primary onset of symptoms (lumbosacral, coccygeal, sacroiliac, pelvic floor, groin or abdominal region) can be followed to establish a basis for managing the specific pain generator(s) and manage tissue dysfunction.
Effects of Processing Parameters on Electrical Properties of p‐Type Li‐Doped ZnO Films by DC Pulsed Sputtering
Authors: Chiu Kuo‐Chuang , Jean Jau‐Ho
Published: May 2011

The effects of processing parameters on electrical properties of a p‐type Li‐doped ZnO film grown on a glass substrate by dc pulsed sputtering at substrate temperatures of 25°–250°C are investigated. Results show that loss of Li due to high evaporation or low sticking efficiency takes place during sputtering, which becomes more significant with increasing substrate temperature. This in turn increases the electrical resistivity of the film deposited from the same target, although both grain size and crystallinity of Li‐doped ZnO films increase at a higher substrate temperature. A larger electrical resistivity is also observed with increasing flow rate of Ar carrier gas, and decreasing sputtering power as well.
Treatment of ilioinguinal nerve entrapment – a randomized controlled trial
Authors: HAHN LENNART
Published: May 2011

Objective. Neuralgic pain caused by entrapment of peripheral nerves can be a difficult clinical problem. The objective of the present study was to assess pain and quality of life in women with pain secondary to ilioinguinal nerve entrapment. Design: In a controlled prospective crossover study, women with ilioinguinal nerve entrapment were randomly allocated to either medical treatment or surgical resection of the ilioinguinal nerve. Setting. A university hospital. Population. 19 women, 21–60 years of age with pelvic pain of more than 6 months’ duration. Methods and main outcome measures. Visual analogue (VA) scales and psychological general well‐being (PGWB) scales were used to validate pain and quality of life, respectively. Results. Improvements were found in the group randomly allocated to surgery, p < 0.008 for the VA scale and p < 0.0098 for the PGWB scale, respectively. Nine of 10 women discontinued the medical arm of treatment because of side effects and/or lack of effect. After being shifted over to surgery, similar improvements were noted (p < 0.0002 and p < 0.0043, respectively). Conclusions. The positive results found here indicate that surgery is superior to medical treatment in ilioinguinal nerve entrapment of unknown cause as well as after previous surgery. More randomized trials from different centers with larger numbers of women are needed to confirm these results.
Adiponectin expression is decreased in the involved skin and sera of diffuse cutaneous scleroderma patients
Authors: Arakawa Hiroki , Jinnin Masatoshi , Muchemwa Faith C. , Makino Takamitsu , Kajihara Ikko , Makino Katsunari , Honda Noritoshi , Sakai Keisuke , Fukushima Satoshi , Ihn Hironobu
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  In this study, we determined the adiponectin expression in the serum and lesional skin of patients with scleroderma (SSc). Serum adiponectin concentrations were measured in 32 patients with SSc, 10 patients with SLE, 12 patients with dermatomyositis patients and 13 healthy subjects with specific enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays. Adiponectin mRNA was determined in skin tissues of five patients with diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc), seven patients with limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) and seven healthy subjects with real‐time polymerase chain reaction. There was a significant reduction in serum adiponectin levels in patients with dcSSc. SSc patients with decreased serum adiponectin levels had higher total skin thickness score and higher incidence of pulmonary fibrosis. Adiponectin mRNA levels in skin tissues from patients with dcSSc were also reduced. Serum adiponectin levels may be a useful biomarker for fibrotic condition in patients with SSc. Clarifying the role of adiponectin in collagen diseases may lead to further understanding of the pathogenesis and new therapeutic approach.
Melatonin improves d‐galactose‐induced aging effects on behavior, neurogenesis, and lipid peroxidation in the mouse dentate gyrus via increasing pCREB expression
Authors: Yoo Dae Young , Kim Woosuk , Lee Choong Hyun , Shin Bin Na , Nam Sung Min , Choi Jung Hoon , Won Moo‐Ho , Yoon Yeo Sung , Hwang In Koo
Published: May 2011

Abstract:  Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) has multiple functions. In this study, we investigated the effects of melatonin on memory, cell proliferation, and neuroblast differentiation in the dentate gyrus of a mouse model of d‐galactose‐induced aging. d‐galactose was subcutaneously administered to 7‐wk‐old mice for 10 wk, and age‐matched mice were used as controls. Seven weeks after d‐galactose administration, vehicle (water) or melatonin (6 mg/L in water) was administered ad libitum to the mice for 3 wk. The administration of d‐galactose significantly increased the escape latency compared with that in the control mice on days 1–3. In addition, cells in the subgranular zone and in the granule cell layer of the dentate gyrus showed severe damage (cytoplasmic condensation) in the d‐galactose‐treated mice. However, melatonin supplementation to these mice for 3 wk significantly ameliorated the d‐galactose‐induced increase in escape latency and neuronal damage compared with the vehicle‐treated group. The administration of melatonin also significantly restored the d‐galactose‐induced reduction of proliferating cells (Ki67‐positive cells) and differentiating neuroblasts (doublecortin‐positive neuroblasts) in the dentate gyrus. Furthermore, the administration of melatonin significantly increased Ser133‐phosphorylated cyclic AMP response element binding protein in the dentate gyrus. The administration of melatonin significantly reduced d‐galactose‐induced lipid peroxidation in the dentate gyrus. These results suggest that melatonin may be helpful in reducing age‐related phenomena in the brain.
Effect of Composite Binder on the Property of Lightweight Bubble Alumina Ceramics
Authors: Wang Jiabang , Tian Feng , Chen Huxing
Published: May 2011

The effect of composite binder on the mechanical property of lightweight bubble alumina ceramics was studied. The ceramics were prepared using bubble alumina and α‐Al2O3 fines as raw materials, phosphoric acid (H3PO4) and aluminum ammonium sulfate (NH4Al(SO4)2·12H2O) as binders. During sintering, most phosphoric acid react with aluminum ammonium sulfate and the rest react with bubble alumina and α‐Al2O3 fines, forming aluminum phosphate on the surface of the alumina particles, which effectively improves the sintering process. The mechanical property of the ceramic bonded by composite binder was greatly improved compared with that bonded by single binder
Density Effects of a Dominant Understory Herb,Isoglossa woodii(Acanthaceae), on Tree Seedlings of a Subtropical Coastal Dune Forest
Authors: Tsvuura Zivanai , Griffiths Megan E. , Lawes Michael J.
Published: May 2011

Suppression of tree seedlings by the understory is an important ecological filter with implications for tree diversity and dynamics. In a greenhouse competition experiment, we used seedlings of four canopy species from coastal dune forest (Diospyros natalensis, Euclea racemosa, Sideroxylon inermeandApodytes dimidiata) to examine the relative competitive effects of the dominant understory herbIsoglossa woodiion seedling performance. We manipulatedI. woodiidensity, light and nutrient levels and measured growth responses. Total seedling biomass decreased with density ofI. woodii. The magnitude of biomass suppression with competitor density was similar among tree species. Consequently there was no discernable hierarchy of competitive ranking among tree species. The relative growth rate of seedlings decreased at higher densities ofI. woodiiand increased at higher nutrient levels but was unaffected by variation in light conditions. Aboveground biomass decreased at higher densities ofI. woodiiand at higher light levels but increased at higher nutrient levels. Size asymmetric competition for light and nutrients may be the major driver of aboveground interactions between tree seedling andI. woodii. While tree species showed no hierarchy of competitive ability their seedlings exhibited equivalent responses to competition from an understory dominant, permitting species coexistence and the maintenance of species diversity.
Serum Concentration of Complement Components of the Lectin Pathway in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients, and Relatively Higher Levels of L‐Ficolin and MASP‐2 in Mannose‐Binding Lectin Deficiency
Authors: Ishii Masaya , Ohsawa Isao , Inoshita Hiroyuki , Kusaba Gaku , Onda Kisara , Wakabayashi Michiro , Ohi Hiroyuki , Horikoshi Satoshi , Matsushita Misao , Tomino Yasuhiko
Published: May 2011

Mannose‐binding lectin (MBL), L‐ficolin and MBL associated serine protease‐2 (MASP‐2) are molecules involved in initiation of the lectin pathway (LP) in the complement system. Although MBL deficiency is observed in almost 10% of healthy people, studies of associations between MBL deficiency and end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) remain rare. The objective of the present study is to clarify the significance of the LP in maintenance hemodialysis (HD) patients, especially in terms of MBL levels. Two hundred and forty‐four HD patients who had been followed up for 74 ± 84 months and 199 healthy controls were included in this study. Measurements of serum concentrations of MBL, L‐ficolin, and MASP‐2 were performed. Low serum MBL levels (<0.1 µg/mL) in the patients were confirmed by examination of a point mutation in the Mbl‐2 gene. Seventeen HD patients (7%) and 20 healthy controls (10%) had MBL deficiency. During the follow‐up period, 99 patients died. There was no significant difference in the frequency of deaths by infectious diseases between MBL deficient and non‐deficient patients. In both patients and healthy controls with MBL deficiency, the serum concentration of L‐ficolin tended to be high, and that of MASP‐2 was significantly high (P < 0.05). MBL deficiency is not a risk factor for HD induction or life‐threatening infections. It is postulated that the elevation of concentration of the two components of the LP, L‐ficolin and MASP‐2, may compensate for the insufficient activity of the LP in MBL deficiency.
Long‐Term Efficacy and Safety of the Small‐Sized β2‐Microglobulin Adsorption Column for Dialysis‐Related Amyloidosis
Authors: Yamamoto Yuichiro , Hirawa Nobuhito , Yamaguchi Satoshi , Ogawa Nariaki , Takeda Hideyuki , Shibuya Ken , Kawahara Kimiko , Kojima Hirofumi , Dobashi Yasushi , Fujita Megumi , Azusima Kengo , Miyazaki Nobuko , Kobayashi Mayumi , Kobayashi Chinatsu , Fujiwara Akira , Yuto Jun , Saka Sanae , Yatsu Keisuke , Toya Yoshiyuki , Yasuda Gen , Ohnishi Toshimasa , Umemura Satoshi
Published: May 2011

Dialysis‐related amyloidosis (DRA) is one of the major complications often seen in long‐term dialysis patients, and is one of the factors that decreases quality of life. β2‐microglobulin (β2‐m) is considered to be a major pathogenic factor in dialysis‐related amyloidosis. The Lixelle adsorbent column, with various capacities, has been developed to adsorb β2‐m from the circulating blood of patients with dialysis‐related amyloidosis. Using a minimum type of β2‐m‐adsorbing column (Lixelle S‐15), we evaluated its therapeutic efficacy and safety in dialysis patients. Seventeen hemodialysis patients with DRA were treated with the S‐15 column for one year. Treatment was performed three times a week in this study. During the study period, pinch strength, visual analog scale for joint pain, and activities of daily living were evaluated every three months, and blood sampling was performed every six months. After one year's treatment with the S‐15 column, the β2‐m level decreased from 29.3 ± 9.6 mg/L to 24.7 ± 5.1 mg/L (P < 0.05), and the high sensitive C‐reactive protein level decreased from 2996 ± 4380 ng/mL to 1292 ± 1774 ng/mL. After one year of S‐15 column use, pinch strength increased from 5.9 ± 3.0 pounds to 7.2 ± 3.2 pounds (P < 0.05), and the visual analog scale for joint pain and activities of daily living score also improved. Long‐term use of the Lixelle S‐15 column is safe and effective for improvement of quality of life in chronic dialysis patients. Improvement of chronic inflammation may be one of the mechanisms through which the beneficial effects of the column is effected.