bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Computational Methods to Work as First-Pass Filter in Deleterious SNP Analysis of Alkaptonuria
Authors: Magesh R. , George Priya Doss C.
Published: April 2012

A major challenge in the analysis of human genetic variation is to distinguish functional from nonfunctional SNPs. Discovering these functional SNPs is one of the main goals of modern genetics and genomics studies. There is a need to effectively and efficiently identify functionally important nsSNPs which may be deleterious or disease causing and to identify their molecular effects. The prediction of phenotype of nsSNPs by computational analysis may provide a good way to explore the function of nsSNPs and its relationship with susceptibility to disease. In this context, we surveyed and compared variation databases along within silicoprediction programs to assess the effects of deleterious functional variants on protein functions. In other respects, we attempted these methods to work as first-pass filter to identify the deleterious substitutions worth pursuing for further experimental research. In this analysis, we used the existing computational methods to explore the mutation-structure-function relationship inHGDgene causing alkaptonuria.
Is There an Association between Socioeconomic Status and Body Mass Index among Adolescents in Mauritius?
Authors: Fokeena Waqia Begum , Jeewon Rajesh
Published: April 2012

There are no documented studies on socioeconomic status (SES) and body mass index (BMI) among Mauritian adolescents. This study aimed to determine the relationships between SES and BMI among adolescents with focus on diet quality and physical activity (PA) as mediating factors. Mauritian school adolescents (; 96 males, 104 females) were recruited using multistage sampling. Participants completed a self-reported questionnaire. Height and weight were measured and used to calculate BMI (categorised into underweight, healthy-weight, overweight, obese). Chi-square test, Pearson correlation, and Independent samples -test were used for statistical analysis. A negative association was found between SES and BMI (%, ). Diet quality, time spent in PA at school (), but not total PA (), were significantly associated with high SES. Poor diet quality and less time spent in PA at school could explain BMI discrepancies between SES groups.
Source Apportionment of Particle Bound Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons at an Industrial Location in Agra, India
Authors: Lakhani Anita
Published: April 2012

16 US EPA priority polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) were quantified in total suspended ambient particulate matter (TSPM) collected from an industrial site in Agra (India) using gas chromatography. The major industrial activities in Agra are foundries that previously used coal and coke as fuel in cupola furnaces. These foundries have now switched over to natural gas. In addition, use of compressed natural gas has also been promoted and encouraged in automobiles. This study attempts to apportion sources of PAH in the ambient air and the results reflect the advantages associated with the change of fuel. The predominant PAHs in TSPM include high molecular weight (HMW) congeners BghiP, DbA, IP, and BaP. The sum of 16 priority PAHs had a mean value of 72.7 ± 4.7 ng m−3. Potential sources of PAHs in aerosols were identified using diagnostic ratios and principal component analysis. The results reflect a blend of emissions from diesel and natural gas as the major sources of PAH in the city along with contribution from emission of coal, coke, and gasoline.
A Prospective Study Evaluating IOP Changes after Switching from a Therapy with Prostaglandin Eye Drops Containing Preservatives to Nonpreserved Tafluprost in Glaucoma Patients
Authors: Ranno Stefano , Sacchi Matteo , Brancato Cinzia , Gilardi Daniela , Lembo Andrea , Nucci Paolo
Published: April 2012

Purpose. To compare the ocular hypotensive effect of tafluprost with prostaglandin analogues (PGAs) in glaucoma patients.Methods. 89 primary open-angle glaucoma patients treated with bimatoprost, latanoprost, or travoprost for at least 3 months complaining for ocular discomfort were switched to tafluprost. IOP was assessed at baseline and 3 months after switching the therapy by daily curve. Primary outcome was to compare the mean daily IOP of tafluprost with PGAs.Results. The mean daily IOP was16±2.1and16.6±2.0 mm Hg at baseline and after switching to tafluprost, respectively (P>0.05). When analysis was carried out between tafluprost and each previous PGAs, the comparison between latanoprost and tafluprost and travoprost and tafluprost did not show any statistically significant difference in mean daily IOP and at each time point. The comparison between bimatoprost and tafluprost showed a statistically significant difference in mean daily IOP (P<0.05) and at each time point (P<0.05).Conclusions. After 3 months of switching tafluprost showed an overall IOP lowering effect similar to others PGAs. When each PGA was compared with tafluprost, bimatoprost showed to provide a statistically significant additional IOP lowering effect.
A Randomized Comparative Trial on the Therapeutic Efficacy of TopicalAloe veraandCalendula officinalison Diaper Dermatitis in Children
Authors: Panahi Yunes , Sharif Mohamad Reza , Sharif Alireza , Beiraghdar Fatemeh , Zahiri Zahra , Amirchoopani Golnoush , Marzony Eisa Tahmasbpour , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: April 2012

Introduction. Diaper dermatitis (DD) is a common inflammatory disorder among children and infants. The objective of the present randomized and double-blind trial was to compare the therapeutic efficacies ofAloe veracream andCalendula officinalisointment on the frequency and severity of DD in children.Methods. Sixty-six infants with DD (aged < 3 years) were randomized to receive eitherAloecream (n=32) orCalendulaointment (n=34). Infants were treated with these drugs 3 times a day for 10 days. The severity of dermatitis was graded at baseline as well as at the end of trial using a 5-point scale. The adverse effects of study medications were assessed during the trial.Results. Although improvement in the severity of DD was observed in both treatment groups (P<0.001), patients receivingCalendulaointment had significantly fewer rash sites compared toAloegroup (P=0.001). No adverse effect was reported from either of the medications.Discussion. The evidence from this study suggests that topicalAloeand in particularCalendulacould serve as safe and effective treatment for the treatment of diaper dermatitis in infants.
Deficiency in Galectin-3 Promotes Hepatic Injury in CDAA Diet-Induced Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease
Authors: Nomoto Kazuhiro , Nishida Takeshi , Nakanishi Yuko , Fujimoto Makoto , Takasaki Ichiro , Tabuchi Yoshiaki , Tsuneyama Koichi
Published: April 2012

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is increasingly recognized as a condition in which excess fat accumulates in hepatocytes. Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), a severe form of NAFLD in which inflammation and fibrosis in the liver are noted, may eventually progress to end-stage liver disease. Galectin-3, a β-galactoside-binding animal lectin, is a multifunctional protein. This protein is involved in inflammatory responses and carcinogenesis. We investigated whether galectin-3 is involved in the development of NASH by comparing galectin-3 knockout (gal3−/−) mice and wild-type (gal3+/+) mice with choline-deficient L-amino-acid-defined (CDAA) diet-induced NAFLD/NASH. Hepatic injury was significantly more severe in thegal3−/−male mice, as compared to thegal3+/+mice. Data generated by microarray analysis of gene expression suggested that galectin-3 deficiency causes alterations in the expression of various genes associated with carcinogenesis and lipid metabolism. Through canonical pathway analysis, involvement of PDGF and IL-6 signaling pathways was suggested in galectin-3 deficiency. Significant increase of CD14, Fos, and Jun, those that were related to lipopolysaccharide-mediated signaling, was candidate to promote hepatocellular damages in galectin-3 deficiency. In conclusion, galectin-3 deficiency in CDAA diet promotes NAFLD features. It may be caused by alterations in the expression profiles of various hepatic genes including lipopolysaccharide-mediated inflammation.
Characterization of eDNA from the Clinical StrainAcinetobacter baumanniiAIIMS 7 and Its Role in Biofilm Formation
Authors: Sahu Praveen K. , Iyer Pavithra S. , Oak Amrita M. , Pardesi Karishma R. , Chopade Balu A.
Published: April 2012

Release of extracellular DNA (eDNA) was observed duringin vitrogrowth of a clinical strain ofAcinetobacter baumannii. Membrane vesicles (MV) of varying diameter (20–200 nm) containing DNA were found to be released by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). An assessment of the characteristics of the eDNA with respect to size, digestion pattern by DNase I/restriction enzymes, and PCR-sequencing, indicates a high similarity with genomic DNA. Role of eDNA in static biofilm formed on polystyrene surface was evaluated by biofilm augmentation assay using eDNA available in different preparations, for example, whole cell lysate, cell-free supernatant, MV suspension, and purified eDNA. Biofilm augmentation was seen up to 224.64%, whereas biofilm inhibition was 59.41% after DNase I treatment: confirming that eDNA facilitates biofilm formation inA. baumannii. This is the first paper elucidating the characteristics and role of eDNA inA. baumanniibiofilm, which may provide new insights into its pathogenesis.
Potential association of single nucleotide polymorphisms in pigmentation genes with the development of basal cell carcinoma
Authors: KOSINIAK‐KAMYSZ Agnieszka , POŚPIECH Ewelina , WOJAS‐PELC Anna , MARCIŃSKA Magdalena , BRANICKI Wojciech
Published: April 2012

The risk of developing skin cancers is dependent on a combination of environmental factors and personal genetic predispositions. Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has been associated with single nucleotide polymorphisms in several pigmentation genes; however, there is still controversy concerning the mechanism by which these variants may increase the risk of BCC. The pathway may lead to pigmentation alone, but evidence for their independent influence is growing. Using a single base extension protocol, candidate polymorphisms within 11 known pigment‐related genes were studied for their association with BCC in a population sample consisting of 164 patients and 707 controls. The significance of variation within the MC1R gene was confirmed and, in addition, position rs12203592 within the IRF4 gene was shown to be associated with BCC. These associations remained significant after adjustment for skin color. Gene–gene interactions were found to influence susceptibility to BCC. Among interacting genes are the two above‐mentioned loci with main effect on BCC risk and additionally KITLG, TYRP1, ASIP and TYR. The obtained results indicate that polymorphism at MC1R and IRF4 constitute pigmentation‐independent risk factor in the development of BCC. Moreover, susceptibility to BCC may be influenced by epistatic effects between pigmentation genes.
Non‐thermal DNA damage of cancer cells using near‐infrared irradiation
Authors: Tanaka Yohei , Tatewaki Naoto , Nishida Hiroshi , Eitsuka Takahiro , Ikekawa Nobuo , Nakayama Jun
Published: April 2012

Previously, we reported that near‐infrared irradiation that simulates solar near‐infrared irradiation with pre‐ and parallel‐irradiational cooling can non‐thermally induce cytocidal effects in cancer cells. To explore these effects, we assessed cell viability, DNA damage response pathways, and the percentage of mitotic cancer cells after near‐infrared treatment. Further, we evaluated the anti‐cancer effects of near‐infrared irradiation compared with doxorubicin in xenografts in nude mice by measuring tumor volume and assessing protein phosphorylation by immunoblot analysis. The cell viability of A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells was significantly decreased after three rounds of near‐infrared irradiation at 20 J ⁄ cm2. Apoptotic cells were observed in near‐infrared treated cells. Moreover, near‐infrared treatment increased the phosphorylation of ataxia‐telangiectasia mutated (ATM) at Ser1981, H2AX at Ser139, Chk1 at Ser317, structural maintenance of chromosome (SMC) 1 at Ser966, and p53 at Ser15 in A549 cells compared with control. Notably, near‐infrared treatment induced the formation of nucleic foci of γH2AX. The percentage of mitotic A549 cells, as measured by histone H3 phosphorylation, decreased significantly after three rounds of near‐infrared irradiation at 20 J ⁄cm2. Both near‐infrared and doxorubicin inhibited the tumor growth of MDA‐MB435 melanoma cell xenografts in nude mice and increased the phosphorylation of p53 at Ser15, Chk1 at Ser317, SMC1 at Ser966, and H2AX at Ser139 compared with control mice. These results indicate that near‐infrared irradiation can non‐thermally induce cytocidal effects in cancer cells as a result of activation of the DNA damage response pathway. The near‐infrared irradiation schedule used here reduces discomfort and side effects. Therefore, this strategy may have potential application in the treatment of cancer. (Cancer Sci, doi: 10.1111/j.1349‐7006.2012.02310.x, 2012)
Phase I trial of gemcitabine and candesartan combination therapy in normotensive patients with advanced pancreatic cancer: GECA1
Authors: Nakai Yousuke , Isayama Hiroyuki , Ijichi Hideaki , Sasaki Takashi , Kogure Hirofumi , Yagioka Hiroshi , Miyabayashi Koji , Mizuno Suguru , Yamamoto Keisuke , Mouri Dai , Kawakubo Kazumichi , Yamamoto Natsuyo , Hirano Kenji , Sasahira Naoki , Tateishi Keisuke , Tada Minoru , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: April 2012

Our retrospective study showed inhibition of the renin–angiotensin system was associated with better outcomes in patients with advanced pancreatic cancer receiving gemcitabine. The primary objective of this phase I study was to determine the recommended dose of candesartan in combination with gemcitabine in normotensive patients with advanced pancreatic cancer. Candesartan was given orally at an escalating dose (4, 8, 16, and 32 mg) q.d. daily, and gemcitabine was given 1000 mg/m2 30 min i.v. on days 1, 8, and 15, repeated every 4 weeks. Dose‐limiting toxicity (DLT) was defined as grade 4 hematological toxicities, grade 2 hypotension, abnormal creatinine or potassium, and grade 3 or 4 other non‐hematological toxicities. A standard “3+3” phase I dose‐escalation design was used. A total of 14 patients (candesartan 4 mg, three patients; 8 mg, three patients; 16 mg, six patients; 32 mg, two patients) were enrolled. One of six patients at 16 mg showed DLT of grade 4 neutropenia and two of two patients at 32 mg showed DLT of grade 2 hypotension. Response rate and disease control rate were 0% and 79%, respectively. Progression‐free survival and overall survival were 7.6 and 22.9 months, respectively. Candesartan 16 mg is the recommended dose in combination with gemcitabine in the treatment of advanced pancreatic cancer. (UMIN CTR: UMIN000002152) (Cancer Sci, doi: 10.1111/j.1349‐7006.2012.02311.x, 2012)
A protocol for analysing the costs and benefits of phytosanitary measures*
Authors: Kehlenbeck H. , Cannon R. , Breukers A. , Battisti A. , Leach A. , Mumford J. , MacLeod A.
Published: April 2012

This paper describes a protocol developed within the PRATIQUE project for applying cost/benefit analysis to select appropriate phytosanitary measures for use against quarantine pests. The protocol consists of nine steps, each underpinned by clear guidelines for collating and structuring the relevant data, to assist risk managers with the challenging task of assessing the benefits and costs of phytosanitary measures in a consistent, transparent and reproducible manner. Together with the decision‐support scheme that generates contingency plants and prioritizes action during pest outbreaks, it provides a framework for decision making on phytosanitary measures and helps to provide economic justification for selecting appropriate measures. The practical application of the protocol is demonstrated using two examples: cost/benefit analysis of eradication measures against Anoplophora glabripennis in Northern Italy; and eradication and containment measures against Diabrotica virgifera virgifera in Germany.
The psyllid Macrohomotoma gladiata Kuwayama, 1908 (Hemiptera: Psylloidea: Homotomidae): a Ficus pest recently introduced in the EPPO region
Authors: Mifsud D. , Porcelli F.
Published: April 2012

The psyllid Macrohomotoma gladiata, is a new insect pest of Ficus originating from Asia which has recently been found in Spain (Alicante) on urban Ficus microcarpa trees. This species may be of phytosanitary concern because of its leaf wrapping habits, wax secretion and honeydew excretion that may lead to direct and secondary twig damage. Although more studies are needed on the biology of M. gladiata, it is suspected that it might behave in the Euro‐Mediterranean as an invasive alien species. The predation by Anthocoris sp. (nemoralis?) needs to be investigated in order to assess its effectiveness as a natural biological control agent. This is the first report of M. gladiata from the EPPO region.
Deep‐fat frying under moderate vacuum of potato cylinders
Authors: Mir‐Bel Jorge , Oria Rosa , Salvador María L.
Published: April 2012

This study evaluates parameters relating to the mass transfer during the frying of potato cylinders at different temperatures (100, 120 and 140 °C) and moderate vacuum (around 25 kPa). In all cases, there is a linear relation between water loss and fat uptake. The parameters relating to the textural and structural modifications show less marked changes in vacuum fried products compared to those fried under atmospheric pressure. The maximum penetration force reaches 30%–40% of the initial hardness in vacuum frying and 10% for atmospheric pressure frying; starch gelatinization and pectin methylesterase enzyme activity reduce more quickly under atmospheric pressure, although after 240 s both values are negligible. The scanning electron microscopy images verify that the surface of potato cylinders fried under vacuum or atmospheric pressure are completely different as a result of the steam being released at different temperatures.
Purification and functional characterisation of an α‐l‐rhamnosidase from Penicillium citrinum MTCC‐3565
Authors: Yadav Sarita , Yadav Vinita , Yadava Sudha , Yadav Kapil D.S.
Published: April 2012

An extracellular α‐l‐rhamnosidase from Penicillium citrinum MTCC‐3565 has purified to homogeneity from its culture filtrate using ethanol precipitation and cation‐exchange chromatography on carboxymethyl cellulose. The purified enzyme gave a single protein band corresponding to molecular mass of 45.0 kDa in SDS‐PAGE analysis showing the purity of the enzyme preparation. The native PAGE analysis showed the monomeric nature of the purified enzyme. Using p‐nitrophenyl α‐l‐rhamnopyranoside as substrate, Km and Vmax values of the enzyme were 0.30 mm and 27.0 μm min mg−1, respectively. The kcat value was 20.1 s giving kcat/Km value of 67.0 mm s−1 for the same substrate. The pH and temperature optima of the enzyme were 8.5 and 50 °C, respectively. The activation energy for the thermal denaturation of the enzyme was 29.9 KJ mol−1. The α‐l‐rhamnosidase was able to hydrolyse naringin, rutin and hesperidin and liberated l‐rhamnose, indicating that the purified enzyme can be used for the preparation of α‐l‐rhamnose and pharmaceutically important compounds by derhamnosylation of natural glycosides containing terminal α‐l‐rhamnose. The α‐l‐rhamnosidase was active at the level of ethanol concentration present in wine, indicating that it can be used for improving wine aroma.
Neuroanatomical distribution of the orphan GPR50 receptor in adult sheep and rodent brains
Authors: Batailler M. , Mullier A. , Sidibe A. , Delagrange P. , Prévot V. , Jockers R. , Migaud M.
Published: April 2012

GPR50, formerly known as melatonin‐related receptor, is one of three subtypes of the melatonin receptor subfamily, together with the MT1 and MT2 receptors. By contrast to these two high‐affinity receptor subtypes and despite its high identity with the melatonin receptor family, GPR50 does not bind melatonin or any other known ligand. Specific and reliable immunological tools are therefore needed to be able to elucidate the physiological functions of this orphan receptor that are still largely unknown. We have generated and validated a new specific GPR50 antibody against the ovine GPR50 and used it to analyse the neuroanatomical distribution of the GPR50 in sheep, rat and mouse whole brain. We demonstrated that GPR50‐positive cells are widely distributed in various regions, including the hypothalamus and the pars tuberalis of the pituitary, in all the three species studied. GPR50 expressing cells are abundant in the dorsomedial nucleus of the hypothalamus, the periventricular nucleus and the median eminence. In rodents, immunohistochemical studies revealed a broader distribution pattern for the GPR50 protein. GPR50 immunoreactivity is found in the medial preoptic area (MPA), the lateral septum, the lateral hypothalamic area, the bed nucleus of the stria terminalis, the vascular organ of the laminae terminalis and several regions of the amygdala, including the medial nuclei of amygdala. Additionally, in the rat brain, GPR50 protein was localised in the CA1 pyramidal cell layer of the dorsal hippocampus. In mice, moderate to high numbers of GPR50‐positive cells were also found in the subfornical organ. Taken together, these results provide an enlarged distribution of GPR50 protein, give further insight into the organisation of the melatoninergic system, and may lay the framework for future studies on the role of the GPR50 in the brain.
Forecasting changes in population genetic structure of alpine plants in response to global warming
Authors: JAY FLORA , MANEL STÉPHANIE , ALVAREZ NADIR , DURAND ERIC Y. , THUILLER WILFRIED , HOLDEREGGER ROLF , TABERLET PIERRE , FRANÇOIS OLIVIER
Published: April 2012

Species range shifts in response to climate and land use change are commonly forecasted with species distribution models based on species occurrence or abundance data. Although appealing, these models ignore the genetic structure of species, and the fact that different populations might respond in different ways because of adaptation to their environment. Here, we introduced ancestry distribution models, that is, statistical models of the spatial distribution of ancestry proportions, for forecasting intra‐specific changes based on genetic admixture instead of species occurrence data. Using multi‐locus genotypes and extensive geographic coverage of distribution data across the European Alps, we applied this approach to 20 alpine plant species considering a global increase in temperature from 0.25 to 4 °C. We forecasted the magnitudes of displacement of contact zones between plant populations potentially adapted to warmer environments and other populations. While a global trend of movement in a north‐east direction was predicted, the magnitude of displacement was species‐specific. For a temperature increase of 2 °C, contact zones were predicted to move by 92 km on average (minimum of 5 km, maximum of 212 km) and by 188 km for an increase of 4 °C (minimum of 11 km, maximum of 393 km). Intra‐specific turnover—measuring the extent of change in global population genetic structure—was generally found to be moderate for 2 °C of temperature warming. For 4 °C of warming, however, the models indicated substantial intra‐specific turnover for ten species. These results illustrate that, in spite of unavoidable simplifications, ancestry distribution models open new perspectives to forecast population genetic changes within species and complement more traditional distribution‐based approaches.
Population transcriptomics of cactus host shifts in Drosophila mojavensis
Authors: MATZKIN LUCIANO M.
Published: April 2012

In the presence of environmental change, natural selection can shape the transcriptome. Under a scenario of environmental change, genotypes that are better able to modulate gene expression to maximize fitness will tend to be favoured. Therefore, it is important to examine gene expression at the population level to distinguish random or neutral gene expression variation from the pattern produced by natural selection. This study investigates the natural variation in transcriptional response to a cactus host shift utilizing the mainland Sonora population of Drosophila mojavensis. Drosophila mojavensis is a cactophilic species composed of four cactus host populations endemic to the deserts of North America. Overall, the change in cactus host was associated with a significant reduction in larval viability as well as the differential expression of 21% of the genome (3109 genes). Among the genes identified were a set of genes previously known to be involved in xenobiotic metabolism, as well as genes involved in cellular energy production, oxidoreductase/carbohydrate metabolism, structural components and mRNA binding. Interestingly, of the 3109 genes whose expression was affected by host use, there was a significant overrepresentation of genes that lacked an orthologous call to the D. melanogaster genome, suggesting the possibility of an accelerated rate of evolution in these genes. Of the genes with a significant cactus effect, the majority, 2264 genes, did not exhibit a significant cactus‐by‐line interaction. This population‐level approach facilitated the identification of genes involved in past cactus host shifts.
Staphylococcus pseudintermedius in the dog: taxonomy, diagnostics, ecology, epidemiology and pathogenicity
Authors: Bannoehr Jeanette , Guardabassi Luca
Published: April 2012

The dog is the natural host of Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Many research efforts are currently being undertaken to expand our knowledge and understanding of this important canine commensal and opportunistic pathogen.

The objective of this review is to summarize the current knowledge of the species, including the latest research outcomes, with emphasis on taxonomy, diagnostics, ecology, epidemiology and pathogenicity.

Despite the important taxonomic changes that have occurred over the past few years, the risk of misidentification in canine specimens is low and does not have serious consequences for clinical practice. Staphylococcus pseudintermedius carriage in the dog is more frequent and genetically heterogeneous compared with that of Staphylococcus aureus in man. It appears that these staphylococcal species have evolved separately through adaptation to their respective natural hosts and differ with regard to various aspects concerning ecology, population structure and evolution of antibiotic resistance.

Further understanding of the ecology and epidemiology of S. pseudintermedius is hampered by the lack of a standard method for rapid and discriminatory typing and by the limited data available on longitudinal carriage and population structure of meticillin‐susceptible strains. With regard to pathogenicity, it is only now that we are starting to explore the virulence potential of S. pseudintermedius based on genomic and proteomic approaches, and more research is needed to assess the importance of individual virulence factors and the possible existence of hypervirulent strains.
The investigation of autonomic functions in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Halıgür Beyzan Durul , Cicek Demet , Bulut Serpil , Berilgen Muhammed Said
Published: April 2012

Background  Psoriasis is a common Th1‐mediated skin disease whose etiology remains obscure. Loss of sweating caused by retention hyperkeratosis is seen in psoriasis plaques, which is likely to have resulted from autonomic dysfunction.

Objective  In the present study, we aimed to evaluate autonomic nervous system (ANS) functions with regard to psoriasis and to examine whether there is an underlying ANS dysfunction.

Materials and methods  Fifty adult patients with plaque‐type psoriasis and 20 healthy controls were enrolled in the present study.

Results  In this study, R‐R interval variation (RRIV) was used to evaluate the parasympathetic system. No statistically significant difference was detected when RRIV values of the patient and the control groups were evaluated during normal and deep breathing (P > 0.05). It was determined that parasympathetic activity in the patient group remained unaffected. The sympathetic skin response (SSR) method was used for the evaluation of the sympathetic system. It was found that SSR latency and amplitude values of upper and lower extremities of the patient group were prolonged in comparison to those of the control group. The change in SSR latency of the upper extremity was found to be statistically significant (P < 0.05), whereas the changes in hand amplitude, foot latency, and foot amplitude values were not statistically significant (P > 0.05). It was determined that sympathetic activity in the patient group was affected.

Conclusion  In conclusion, we detected that a dysfunction was present in sympathetic nervous systems of patients with psoriasis. The parasympathetic nervous system functions were normal in patients with psoriasis.
Clinical comparison of two hyaluronic acid‐derived fillers in the treatment of nasolabial folds: Mesoglow® and IAL System®
Authors: Ahn Ji Young , Lee See Hyun , Park Kui Young , Hong Chang Kwun , Song Hae Jun , Park Mi Youn , Choi Yu Sung , Seo Seong Jun
Published: April 2012

Hyaluronic acid (HA) dermal fillers are widely used to reduce the appearance of aging. However, comparative research on the efficacy and safety of products of similar composition is limited. We compared outcomes achieved with two non‐cross‐linked HA fillers of almost identical composition, Mesoglow® and IAL System®. Forty subjects with visible nasolabial folds (NLFs) were enrolled in a randomized study. Wrinkle severity was rated using the 5‐point Wrinkle Severity Rating Scale (WSRS). Each subject was injected with Mesoglow® in one NLF and IAL System® in the other. An optimal cosmetic result was established at two weeks after a second treatment. Participants were then reassessed at 2, 6, and 12 weeks, respectively, post‐optimal cosmetic result using the WSRS. The degree of improvement was also assessed by subjects and investigators using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS).

At baseline, the mean WSRS score was 3.20 ± 0.41. At the optimal cosmetic result, 98% of subjects showed a 1‐ or 2‐point change in WSRS score with either treatment. All subsequent WSRS scores were significantly improved over baseline for both treatments. There was no significant difference between treatments or improvement in WSRS score at any point in time. Investigator GAIS scores at weeks 4 and 6 were slightly but not significantly higher for Mesoglow®‐treated skin. There was no significant difference in the frequency of local adverse responses. No serious systemic adverse events occurred. This study indicates that Mesoglow® and IAL System® are equally effective in achieving short‐term correction of NLFs, but the longevity of their effects is limited.
Dying with motor neurone disease, what can we learn from family caregivers?
Authors: Ray Robin A. , Brown Janice , Street Annette F.
Published: April 2012

Background  Increasingly, people with neurodegenerative illness are cared for at home until close to death. Yet, discussing the reality of dying remains a social taboo.

Objective  To examine the ways, family caregivers of people living with motor neurone disease (MND) experienced the dying of their relative and to identify how health practitioners can better prepare families for end‐of‐life care.

Design  Secondary analysis was undertaken on data sets generated from two longitudinal qualitative studies employing similar data collection and analysis methods. Combining data sets increased participant numbers in a low incidence disease group.

Setting and participants  Primary studies were undertaken with family caregivers in England and Australia. Interview and observational data were collected mostly in home. Participants who discussed dying and death formed the sample for secondary analysis.

Results  Combined data revealed four major themes: planning for end of life, unexpected dying, dignity in the dying body and positive end to MND. Despite short survival predictions, discussions among family members about dying were often sporadic and linked to loss of hope. Effective planning for death assisted caregivers to manage the final degenerative processes of dying. When plans were not effectively communicated or enacted, capacity to preserve personhood was reduced.

Discussion and Conclusion  Returning death and dying to social discourse will raise the level of community awareness and normalize conversations about end‐of‐life care. Strategies for on‐going, effective communication that facilitates advance care planning among patients, their families and practitioners are essential to improve dying and death for people with MND and their family caregivers.
Parents’ views on how health professionals should work with them now to get the best for their child in the future
Authors: Marshall Joyce L. , Green Josephine M. , Spiby Helen
Published: April 2012

Background  Pregnancy and the first years of life are important times for future child well‐being. Early identification of families and children who might be likely to experience poorer outcomes could enable health professionals and parents to work together to promote each child’s well‐being. Little is known about the acceptability and feasibility of such an approach to parents.

Objective  To investigate parents’ views about how health professionals should identify and work with families who may benefit from additional input to maximize their children’s future health and well‐being.

Design  A qualitative study using focus groups.

Setting and participants  Eleven focus groups were conducted with a total of 54 parents; 42 mothers and 12 fathers living in the north of England.

Results  Parents welcomed the idea of preventive services. They strongly believed that everyone should have access to services to enhance child well‐being whilst recognizing that some families need additional support. Making judgements about who should receive additional services based on specific criteria evoked powerful emotions because of the implication of failure. Parents projected a belief in themselves as ‘good parents’ even in adverse circumstances.

Conclusions  Targeted additional preventive services can be acceptable and welcome if health professionals introduce them sensitively, in the context of an existing relationship, providing parents are active participants.
Citizens’ participation in the Italian health‐care system: the experience of the Mixed Advisory Committees
Authors: Serapioni Mauro , Duxbury Nancy
Published: April 2012

Background  In 1994, the region of Emilia‐Romagna recognized the importance of citizens’ participation in the regional health‐care system and recommended the institution of Mixed Advisory Committees in the health districts and hospitals with the objective of monitoring and assessing health‐care quality from the users’ perspective.

Design  This paper reports findings from a qualitatively based evaluation involving direct observations of the committees and 39 semi‐structured interviews: 20 with representatives of patients and users’ associations and 19 with health professionals and managers involved in the activities of the committees.

Results  The Mixed Advisory Committees introduced for the first time in the Italian health system an ongoing deliberative approach that gave patients and users’ representatives the opportunity to be involved in health service governance. The committees enabled the creation of a method of collective participation that overcame the reductive individualistic ‘approach’ to health‐care participation. MAC participants evaluated the committees positively for their mixed composition, which integrated different cultures, experiences and professional profiles with the potential to contribute to solving health‐care problems, in a consultative role. Although patients and users’ representatives were able to exert some form of influence, their expectations were greater than the results obtained. The study illuminated some weak points of public consultation, such as a decline in participation by citizen representatives and a weak influence on decision making.

Discussion and conclusions  MACs developed a mechanism of participation that provides health‐care users’ representatives with the opportunity to contribute to the identification and analysis of critical points of the health‐care system. A strength of the MACs is their level of institutionalization within the health system in the region of Emilia‐Romagna. However, they contain a problem of representativeness, lacking a formal system of determining a representative composition from among patients and users’ associations. The case study also illustrates that participation without the cooperation of the health service, and financial and organizational support, will result in a decline in citizen participation, given the resources required of these volunteer citizens in return for limited results.
Contributing to research via biobanks: what it means to cancer patients
Authors: Pellegrini Isabelle , Chabannon Christian , Mancini Julien , Viret Frederic , Vey Norbert , Julian‐Reynier Claire
Published: April 2012

Context and objective  Biobanks have become strategic resources for biomedical and genetic research. The aim of the present empirical qualitative study was to investigate how patients with cancer perceive and experience the process of donation to biobanks, focussing on the subjective meanings associated with their decisions when they are asked in a routine context to agree to their own biological specimens being used for research projects.

Design  A qualitative study, using semi‐structured interviews to explore in depth the reasons why patients with cancer agree to participating in biobanking.

Participants  Nineteen patients (aged 28–82 years) being treated for colorectal cancer or leukaemia at a French cancer centre participated in this study.

Results  Contributing to biobanks was experienced here as a rewarding and empowering individual experience because of the psychological issues involved, such as feelings of hope associated with research, because it makes the relationship with researchers and clinicians less asymmetrical, revalorization of otherwise ‘wasted’ tissue, and also as an act of solidarity and reciprocity, which makes patients part of a community.

Discussion and conclusion  Patients seem to regard contributing to biobanks as an act of benevolence, which they are motivated to perform because of societal welfare considerations as well as the hope of subjective benefits. Knowledge about the patients’ perspective and of the psychological rewards associated with tumour donation should be taken into account by physicians and caregivers discussing this topic with their patients.
Aquaculture and stress management: a review of probiotic intervention
Authors: Mohapatra S. , Chakraborty T. , Kumar V. , DeBoeck G. , Mohanta K. N.
Published: April 2012

To meet the ever‐increasing demand for animal protein, aquaculture continuously requires new techniques to increase the production yield. However, with every step towards intensification of aquaculture practices, there is an increase in stress level on the animal as well as on the environment. Feeding practices in aqua farming usually plays an important role, and the addition of various additives to a balanced feed formula to achieve better growth is a common practice among the fish and shrimp culturists. Probiotics, also known as ‘bio‐friendly agents’, such as LAB (Lactobacillus), yeasts and Bacillus sp., can be introduced into the culture environment to control and compete with pathogenic bacteria as well as to promote the growth of the cultured organisms. In addition, probiotics are non‐pathogenic and non‐toxic micro‐organisms, having no undesirable side effects when administered to aquatic organisms. Probiotics are also known to play an important role in developing innate immunity among the fishes, and hence help them to fight against any pathogenic bacterias as well as against environmental stressors. The present review is a brief but informative compilation of the different essential and desirable traits of probiotics, their mode of action and their useful effects on fishes. The review also highlights the role of probiotics in helping the fishes to combat against the different physical, chemical and biological stress.
Growth allocation between height and stem diameter in nonsuppressed reproducing Abies mariesii trees
Authors: SEKI TAKESHI , OHTA SADAAKI , FUJIWARA TAKESHI , NAKASHIZUKA TOHRU
Published: April 2012

To understand the growth patterns with respect to competition and leaf‐mass increase in reproducing trees, growth allocation between height and stem diameter was examined for nonsuppressed reproducing Abies mariesii trees in a subalpine forest in northern Honshu, Japan. The growth allocation was analyzed by dividing the relative growth rate of the stem volume into the relative contributions of height and stem‐diameter growth. During a 9‐yr period, height growth and seed‐cone production showed obvious annual variation, while stem‐diameter growth recorded moderate variation. For two of three years of seed‐cone production during the 9‐yr period, trees with larger seed‐cone production were associated with less height growth in the following year of seed‐cone production; however, there was no trend of height growth in the year of seed‐cone production. In the following year of mast seeding, trees with larger stem‐volume growth were associated with less height growth. This trend was also shown for the relationship between the cumulative stem‐volume growth during the 9‐yr period and growth allocation to height, suggesting that trees with a larger biomass increase depress the allocation of photosynthate to competition with a large expenditure for reproduction. In contrast to this, trees with a smaller biomass increase might allocate photosynthate to competition with surrounding trees. The results of this study suggest that an increase in reproductive organs during life history and annual variation in reproduction are closely associated with the growth patterns of the stem in A. mariesii trees.
Role of vasoactive intestinal peptide in seasonal encoding by the suprachiasmatic nucleus clock
Authors: Lucassen Eliane A. , van Diepen Hester C. , Houben Thijs , Michel Stephan , Colwell Christopher S. , Meijer Johanna H.
Published: April 2012

The neuropeptide vasoactive intestinal peptide (VIP) is critical for the proper functioning of the neural circuit that generates circadian rhythms. Mice lacking VIP show profound deficits in the ability to generate many behavioral and physiological rhythms. To explore how the loss of VIP impacts on the intact circadian system, we carried out in vivo multiunit neural activity (MUA) recordings from the suprachiasmatic nucleus of freely moving VIP knockout (KO) mice. The MUA rhythms were largely unaltered in the VIP KO mice, with no significant differences being seen in the amplitude or phase of the rhythms in light–dark conditions. Robust differences between the genotypes were revealed when the mice were transferred from light–dark to constant darkness conditions. In addition, the ability of the VIP KO mice to encode changes in photoperiod was examined. Strikingly, the behavioral and physiological rhythms of VIP KO mice showed no adaptation to short or long photoperiods. The data indicate that the intact circadian system can compensate for some of the consequences of the loss of VIP, whereas this peptide is indispensable for endogenous encoding of seasonal information.
Altered profile of basket cell afferent synapses in hyper‐excitable dentate gyrus revealed by optogenetic and two‐pathway stimulations
Authors: Ledri Marco , Nikitidou Litsa , Erdelyi Ferenc , Szabo Gabor , Kirik Deniz , Deisseroth Karl , Kokaia Merab
Published: April 2012

Cholecystokinin (CCK‐) positive basket cells form a distinct class of inhibitory GABAergic interneurons, proposed to act as fine‐tuning devices of hippocampal gamma‐frequency (30–90 Hz) oscillations, which can convert into higher frequency seizure activity. Therefore, CCK‐basket cells may play an important role in regulation of hyper‐excitability and seizures in the hippocampus. In normal conditions, the endogenous excitability regulator neuropeptide Y (NPY) has been shown to modulate afferent inputs onto dentate gyrus CCK‐basket cells, providing a possible novel mechanism for excitability control in the hippocampus. Using GAD65‐GFP mice for CCK‐basket cell identification, and whole‐cell patch‐clamp recordings, we explored whether the effect of NPY on afferent synapses to CCK‐basket cells is modified in the hyper‐excitable dentate gyrus. To induce a hyper‐excitable state, recurrent seizures were evoked by electrical stimulation of the hippocampus using the well‐characterized rapid kindling protocol. The frequency of spontaneous and miniature excitatory and inhibitory post‐synaptic currents recorded in CCK‐basket cells was decreased by NPY. The excitatory post‐synaptic currents evoked in CCK‐basket cells by optogenetic activation of principal neurons were also decreased in amplitude. Interestingly, we observed an increased proportion of spontaneous inhibitory post‐synaptic currents with slower rise times, indicating that NPY may inhibit gamma aminobutyric acid release preferentially in peri‐somatic synapses. These findings indicate that increased levels and release of NPY observed after seizures can modulate afferent inputs to CCK‐basket cells, and therefore alter their impact on the oscillatory network activity and excitability in the hippocampus.
Mechanistic theory and modelling of complex food‐web dynamics in Lake Constance
Authors: Boit Alice , Martinez Neo D. , Williams Richard J. , Gaedke Ursula
Published: April 2012

Mechanistic understanding of consumer‐resource dynamics is critical to predicting the effects of global change on ecosystem structure, function and services. Such understanding is severely limited by mechanistic models’ inability to reproduce the dynamics of multiple populations interacting in the field. We surpass this limitation here by extending general consumer‐resource network theory to the complex dynamics of a specific ecosystem comprised by the seasonal biomass and production patterns in a pelagic food web of a large, well‐studied lake. We parameterised our allometric trophic network model of 24 guilds and 107 feeding relationships using the lake’s food web structure, initial spring biomasses and body‐masses. Adding activity respiration, the detrital loop, minimal abiotic forcing, prey resistance and several empirically observed rates substantially increased the model's fit to the observed seasonal dynamics and the size‐abundance distribution. This process illuminates a promising approach towards improving food‐web theory and dynamic models of specific habitats.