bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identifying viral integration sites using SeqMap 2.0
Authors: Hawkins Troy B. , Dantzer Jessica , Peters Brandon , Dinauer Mary , Mockaitis Keithanne , Mooney Sean , Cornetta Kenneth
Published: January 2011

Summary: Retroviral integration has been implicated in several biomedical applications, including identification of cancer-associated genes and malignant transformation in gene therapy clinical trials. We introduce an efficient and scalable method for fast identification of viral vector integration sites from long read high-throughput sequencing. Individual sequence reads are masked to remove non-genomic sequence, aligned to the host genome and assembled into contiguous fragments used to pinpoint the position of integration.

Availability and Implementation: The method is implemented in a publicly accessible web server platform, SeqMap 2.0, containing analysis tools and both private and shared lab workspaces that facilitate collaboration among researchers. Available at http://seqmap.compbio.iupui.edu/.

Contact:  troyhawk@iupui.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
The future of fisheries science in management: a remote-sensing perspective
Authors: Stuart Venetia , Platt Trevor , Sathyendranath Shubha
Published: January 2011

Stuart, V., Platt, T., and Sathyendranath, S. 2011. The future of fisheries science in management: a remote-sensing perspective. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 68: 644–650. Earth observation from satellites offers vast potential for fisheries applications, including management of marine resources, stock assessment, marine aquaculture, and fish harvesting. One of the most promising avenues for the use of satellite data for fisheries science in management lies in quantifying objectively the variables that result in large and small year classes of exploited stocks. The influence of fluctuations in the availability of food in the critical period of larval stages can be investigated through the application of ecological indicators describing the variability of the pelagic ecosystem at a given time and place. These indices can increase our understanding of the relationship between ecosystem factors and the recruitment of key species. Despite the many demonstration applications published to date, little use is being made of satellite data to support fisheries science in management. We discuss some of the obstacles that lie in the way of the operational use of satellite data and suggest actions that could facilitate its broader application.
Preoperative Pain Sensitivity and Its Correlation with Postoperative Pain and Analgesic Consumption
Authors: Abrishami Amir , Chan Joshua , Chung Frances , Wong Jean , Warner David S.
Published: January 2011

Pain perception to minor physical stimuli has been hypothesized to be related to subsequent pain ratings after surgery. The objective of this systematic review was to evaluate the correlation between preoperative pain sensitivity and postoperative pain intensity. After a literature search of MEDLINE, EMBASE, and meeting abstracts, we identified 15 studies (n = 948 patients) with univariate and/or multivariate analysis on the topic. In these studies, three types of pain stimuli were applied: thermal, pressure, and electrical pain. The intensity of suprathreshold heat pain (i.e., pain beyond patient threshold) was most consistently shown to correlate with postoperative pain. The most common limitation of the included studies was the method of statistical analysis and lack of multivariate analysis. More research is required to establish the correlation of other pain sensitivity variables with postoperative pain outcomes.
Thoracic Epidural Anesthesia Improves Early Outcomes in Patients Undergoing Off-pump Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: Caputo Massimo , Alwair Hazaim , Rogers Chris A. , Pike Katie , Cohen Alan , Monk Christopher , Tomkins Sally , Ryder Ian , Moscariello Cesare , Lucchetti Vincenzo , Angelini Gianni D.
Published: January 2011

Background

The aim of this two-center, open, randomized, controlled trial was to evaluate the impact of thoracic epidural anesthesia on early clinical outcomes in patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery.

Methods

Two hundred and twenty-six patients were randomized to either general anesthesia plus epidural (GAE) (n = 109) or general anesthesia only (GA) (n = 117). The primary outcome was length of postoperative hospital stay. Secondary outcomes were: arrhythmia, inotropic support, intubation time, perioperative myocardial infarction, neurologic events, intensive care stay, pain scores, and analgesia requirement.

Results

Baseline characteristics were similar in the two groups. One patient died in the GAE group. Median postoperative stay was significantly reduced in the GAE, compared with the GA, group (5 days, interquartile range [5-6] vs. 6 days, interquartile range [5-7], hazard ratio = 1.39, 95% CI [1.06-1.82]; P = 0.017). The incidence of arrhythmias and the median intubation time were both significantly lower in the GAE, compared with the GA, group (odds ratio = 0.41, 95% CI [0.22-0.78], P = 0.006 and hazard ratio = 1.73, 95% CI [1.31-2.27], P < 0.001, respectively). Patients in the GAE group were more likely to need vasoconstrictors intraoperatively than in the GA group (odds ratio = 2.50, 95% CI [1.22-5.12]; P = 0.012). The GAE, compared with GA, group reported significantly lower levels of impairment for all pain domains and reduced morphine usage (odds ratio = 0.07, 95% CI [0.03-0.17]; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients undergoing off-pump coronary artery bypass surgery, the addition of thoracic epidural to general anesthesia significantly reduces the incidence of postoperative arrhythmias and improves pain control and overall quality of recovery, allowing earlier extubation and hospital discharge.
Salvinorin A Produces Cerebrovasodilation through Activation of Nitric Oxide Synthase, κ Receptor, and Adenosine Triphosphate–sensitive Potassium Channel
Authors: Su Diansan , Riley John , Kiessling Willis J. , Armstead William M. , Liu Renyu
Published: January 2011

Background

Salvinorin A is a nonopioid, selective κ opioid-receptor agonist. Despite its high potential for clinical application, its pharmacologic profile is not well known. In the current study, we hypothesized that salvinorin A dilates pial arteries via activation of nitric oxide synthase, adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels, and opioid receptors.

Methods

Cerebral artery diameters and cyclic guanosine monophosphate in cortical periarachnoid cerebrospinal fluid were monitored in piglets equipped with closed cranial windows. Observation took place before and after salvinorin A administration in the presence or absence of an opioid antagonist (naloxone), a κ opioid receptor-selective antagonist (norbinaltorphimine), nitric oxide synthase inhibitors (N(G)-nitro-L-arginine and 7-nitroindazole), a dopamine receptor D2 antagonist (sulpiride), and adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium and Ca-activated K channel antagonists (glibenclamide and iberiotoxin). The effects of salvinorin A on the constricted cerebral artery induced by hypocarbia and endothelin were investigated. Data were analyzed by repeated measures ANOVA (n = 5) with statistical significance set at a P value of less than 0.05.

Results

Salvinorin A induced immediate but brief vasodilatation that was sustained for 30 min via continual administration every 2 min. Vasodilatation and the associated cyclic guanosine monophosphate elevation in cerebrospinal fluid were abolished by preadministration N(G)-nitro-L-arginine, but not 7-nitroindazole. Although naloxone, norbinaltorphimine, and glibenclamide abolished salvinorin A-induced cerebrovasodilation, this response was unchanged by iberiotoxin and sulpiride. Hypocarbia and endothelin-constricted pial arteries responded similarly to salvinorin A, to the extent observed under resting tone.

Conclusions

Salvinorin A dilates cerebral arteries via activation of nitric oxide synthase, adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channel, and the κ opioid receptor.
Aphid–parasitoid community structure on genetically modified wheat
Authors: von Burg Simone , van Veen Frank J. F. , Álvarez-Alfageme Fernando , Romeis Jörg
Published: January 2011

Since the introduction of genetically modified (GM) plants, one of the main concerns has been their potential effect on non-target insects. Many studies have looked at GM plant effects on single non-target herbivore species or on simple herbivore–natural enemy food chains. Agro-ecosystems, however, are characterized by numerous insect species which are involved in complex interactions, forming food webs. In this study, we looked at transgenic disease-resistant wheat (
Triticum aestivum
) and its effect on aphid–parasitoid food webs. We hypothesized that the GM of the wheat lines directly or indirectly affect aphids and that these effects cascade up to change the structure of the associated food webs. Over 2 years, we studied different experimental wheat lines under semi-field conditions. We constructed quantitative food webs to compare their properties on GM lines with the properties on corresponding non-transgenic controls. We found significant effects of the different wheat lines on insect community structure up to the fourth trophic level. However, the observed effects were inconsistent between study years and the variation between wheat varieties was as big as between GM plants and their controls. This suggests that the impact of our powdery mildew-resistant GM wheat plants on food web structure may be negligible and potential ecological effects on non-target insects limited.
Structural purity of magnetite nanoparticles in magnetotactic bacteria
Authors: Fischer Anna , Schmitz Manuel , Aichmayer Barbara , Fratzl Peter , Faivre Damien
Published: January 2011

Magnetosome biomineralization and chain formation in magnetotactic bacteria are two processes that are highly controlled at the cellular level in order to form cellular magnetic dipoles. However, even if the magnetosome chains are well characterized, controversial results about the microstructure of magnetosomes were obtained and its possible influence in the formation of the magnetic dipole is to be specified. For the first time, the microstructure of intracellular magnetosomes was investigated using high-resolution synchrotron X-ray diffraction. Significant differences in the lattice parameter were found between intracellular magnetosomes from cultured magnetotactic bacteria and isolated ones. Through comparison with abiotic control materials of similar size, we show that this difference can be associated with different oxidation states and that the biogenic nanomagnetite is stoichiometric, i.e. structurally pure whereas isolated magnetosomes are slightly oxidized. The hierarchical structuring of the magnetosome chain thus starts with the formation of structurally pure magnetite nanoparticles that in turn might influence the magnetic property of the magnetosome chains.
Dual-phase evolution in complex adaptive systems
Authors: Paperin Greg , Green David G. , Sadedin Suzanne
Published: January 2011

Understanding the origins of complexity is a key challenge in many sciences. Although networks are known to underlie most systems, showing how they contribute to well-known phenomena remains an issue. Here, we show that recurrent phase transitions in network connectivity underlie emergent phenomena in many systems. We identify properties that are typical of systems in different connectivity phases, as well as characteristics commonly associated with the phase transitions. We synthesize these common features into a common framework, which we term dual-phase evolution (DPE). Using this framework, we review the literature from several disciplines to show that recurrent connectivity phase transitions underlie the complex properties of many biological, physical and human systems. We argue that the DPE framework helps to explain many complex phenomena, including perpetual novelty, modularity, scale-free networks and criticality. Our review concludes with a discussion of the way DPE relates to other frameworks, in particular, self-organized criticality and the adaptive cycle.
Efficient storage of high throughput DNA sequencing data using reference-based compression
Authors: Hsi-Yang Fritz Markus , Leinonen Rasko , Cochrane Guy , Birney Ewan
Published: January 2011

Data storage costs have become an appreciable proportion of total cost in the creation and analysis of DNA sequence data. Of particular concern is that the rate of increase in DNA sequencing is significantly outstripping the rate of increase in disk storage capacity. In this paper we present a new reference-based compression method that efficiently compresses DNA sequences for storage. Our approach works for resequencing experiments that target well-studied genomes. We align new sequences to a reference genome and then encode the differences between the new sequence and the reference genome for storage. Our compression method is most efficient when we allow controlled loss of data in the saving of quality information and unaligned sequences. With this new compression method we observe exponential efficiency gains as read lengths increase, and the magnitude of this efficiency gain can be controlled by changing the amount of quality information stored. Our compression method is tunable: The storage of quality scores and unaligned sequences may be adjusted for different experiments to conserve information or to minimize storage costs, and provides one opportunity to address the threat that increasing DNA sequence volumes will overcome our ability to store the sequences.
Differentiation of Arabidopsis Guard Cells: Analysis of the Networks Incorporating the Basic Helix-Loop-Helix Transcription Factor, FAMA
Authors: Hachez Charles , Ohashi-Ito Kyoko , Dong Juan , Bergmann Dominique C.
Published: January 2011

Nearly all extant land plants possess stomata, the epidermal structures that mediate gas exchange between the plant and the environment. The developmental pathways, cell division patterns, and molecules employed in the generation of these structures are simple examples of processes used in many developmental contexts. One specific module is a set of “master regulator” basic helix-loop-helix transcription factors that regulate individual consecutive steps in stomatal development. Here, we profile transcriptional changes in response to inducible expression of Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) FAMA, a basic helix-loop-helix protein whose actions during the final stage in stomatal development regulate both cell division and cell fate. Genes identified by microarray and candidate approaches were then further analyzed to test specific hypothesis about the activity of FAMA, the shape of its regulatory network, and to create a new set of stomata-specific or stomata-enriched reporters.
BSCTV C2 Attenuates the Degradation of SAMDC1 to Suppress DNA Methylation-Mediated Gene Silencing in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Zhonghui , Chen Hao , Huang Xiahe , Xia Ran , Zhao Qingzhen , Lai Jianbin , Teng Kunling , Li Yin , Liang Liming , Du Quansheng , Zhou Xueping , Guo Huishan , Xie Qi
Published: January 2011

Plant viruses are excellent tools for studying microbial–plant interactions as well as the complexities of host activities. Our study focuses on the role of C2 encoded by Beet severe curly top virus (BSCTV) in the virus–plant interaction. Using BSCTV C2 as bait in a yeast two-hybrid screen, a C2-interacting protein, S-adenosyl-methionine decarboxylase 1 (SAMDC1), was identified from an Arabidopsis thaliana cDNA library. The interaction was confirmed by an in vitro pull-down assay and a firefly luciferase complemention imaging assay in planta. Biochemical analysis further showed that the degradation of the SAMDC1 protein was inhibited by MG132, a 26S proteasome inhibitor, and that C2 could attenuate the degradation of the SAMDC1 protein. Genetic analysis showed that loss of function of SAMDC1 resulted in reduced susceptibility to BSCTV infection and reduced viral DNA accumulation, similar to the effect of BSCTV C2 deficiency. Bisulfite sequencing analysis further showed that C2 deficiency caused enhanced DNA methylation of the viral genome in infected plants. We also showed that C2 can suppress de novo methylation in the FWA transgenic assay in the C2 transgene background. Overexpression of SAMDC1 can mimic the suppressive activity of C2 against green fluorescent protein–directed silencing. These results suggest that C2 interferes with the host defense mechanism of DNA methylation-mediated gene silencing by attenuating the 26S proteasome-mediated degradation of SAMDC1.
River dynamics shape clonal diversity and genetic structure of an Amazonian understorey herb
Authors: Schleuning Matthias , Becker Thomas , Vadillo Giovana P. , Hahn Thomas , Matthies Diethart , Durka Walter
Published: January 2011

1. Clonal herbs are an important feature of the understorey of Amazonian forests. However, little is known about the environmental drivers determining the population genetics of these herbs and about the spatial scale of gene flow.

2. With amplified fragment length polymorphism markers, we analysed the clonal diversity and genetic structure of a clonal Amazonian herb (Heliconia metallica) in south‐eastern Peru at two spatial scales. First, we sampled leaves in 24 patches differing in flooding frequency and canopy openness in 2 km2 of a floodplain forest, and second in 21 riverine populations from the Andean foothills to the Amazon lowlands along a 550‐km stretch of river.

3. At the small spatial scale in the floodplain forest, the clonal diversity of H. metallica was higher at flooded than at non‐flooded sites, but clonal diversity did not increase with canopy openness.

4. At the large spatial scale, clonal diversity was very low in riverine populations at up‐ and downriver sites, suggesting that seedling recruitment was higher at mid‐altitudes where the flooding intensity is intermediate. Genetic diversity of riverine populations monotonously increased downriver, indicating unidirectional gene flow mediated by hydrochory.

5. Genetic differentiation among riverine populations was very low (FST = 0.06) and followed an isolation‐by‐distance pattern, indicating a stepping‐stone type of gene flow by seeds. Despite the much smaller spatial scale, genetic differentiation among patches in the floodplain forest was higher (FST = 0.16), due to spatially restricted gene flow in the forest understorey.

6.
Synthesis. The genetic structure of H. metallica is the result of seedling recruitment being largely limited to flooded sites and of hydrochoric seed dispersal between populations growing on riverbanks. We conclude that river dynamics are the major determinant of the genetic structure of Amazonian plants and that largely undisturbed river systems, such as the Amazon, provide a crucial vector for gene flow, even at large spatial scales.
Impact of above‐ and below‐ground invertebrates on temporal and spatial stability of grassland of different diversity
Authors: Eisenhauer Nico , Milcu Alexandru , Allan Eric , Nitschke Norma , Scherber Christoph , Temperton Vicky , Weigelt Alexandra , Weisser Wolfgang W. , Scheu Stefan
Published: January 2011

1. Recent theoretical studies suggest that the stability of ecosystem processes is not governed by diversityper se, but by multitrophic interactions in complex communities. However, experimental evidence supporting this assumption is scarce.

2. We investigated the impact of plant diversity and the presence of above‐ and below‐ground invertebrates on the stability of plant community productivity in space and time, as well as the interrelationship between both stability measures in experimental grassland communities.

3. We sampled above‐ground plant biomass on subplots with manipulated above‐ and below‐ground invertebrate densities of a grassland biodiversity experiment (Jena Experiment) 1, 4 and 6 years after the establishment of the treatments to investigate temporal stability. Moreover, we harvested spatial replicates at the last sampling date to explore spatial stability.

4. The coefficient of variation of spatial and temporal replicates served as a proxy for ecosystem stability. Both spatial and temporal stability increased to a similar extent with plant diversity. Moreover, there was a positive correlation between spatial and temporal stability, and elevated plant density might be a crucial factor governing the stability of diverse plant communities.

5. Above‐ground insects generally increased temporal stability, whereas impacts of both earthworms and above‐ground insects depended on plant species richness and the presence of grasses. These results suggest that inconsistent results of previous studies on the diversity–stability relationship have in part been due to neglecting higher trophic‐level interactions governing ecosystem stability.

6. Changes in plant species diversity in one trophic level are thus unlikely to mirror changes in multitrophic interrelationships. Our results suggest that both above‐ and below‐ground invertebrates decouple the relationship between spatial and temporal stability of plant community productivity by differently affecting the homogenizing mechanisms of plants in diverse plant communities.

7.Synthesis. Species extinctions and accompanying changes in multitrophic interactions are likely to result not only in alterations in the magnitude of ecosystem functions but also in its variability complicating the assessment and prediction of consequences of current biodiversity loss.
An evaluation of a screening and brief intervention pilot project for hazardous and harmful drinkers within the accident and emergency department of Manchester Royal Infirmary
Authors: O'BRIEN M. T.
Published: January 2011

Accessible summary

This evaluation focused on a pilot project introduced into a busy, inner city centre hospital in the North West of England. Manchester has one of the highest rates of violent crime in England and among the highest rates of alcohol consumption, particularly binge drinking.

Between December 2006 and October 2007, patients were screened using the Paddington Alcohol Test. These patients presented at the A and E department with acute and chronic alcohol‐related health problems. Numerous patients also experienced mental health issues, homelessness and were involved in the criminal justice system.

The project's aim was to target hazardous and harmful drinkers, screen them, deliver brief advice and refer them to the alcohol liaison nurse for a brief intervention appointment (which was optional). At this appointment, patients’ motivation to change their alcohol use was assessed and referral to community alcohol services was undertaken, if considered appropriate.

The provision of reports on last drink location helped to assist more effective targeting for the police and the licensing unit. Potentially, this could contribute to the reduction of alcohol misuse in a high‐risk group through brief interventions, training of A and E staff and appropriate referrals to other agencies.

The project was also intended to link into the Tackling Violent Crime Programme and additional funding was sought from the Health Inequalities Partnership, which will contribute to the achievement of health improvement goals in disadvantaged populations. In addition, the project will also provide a model for the development of this type of initiative in other hospital A and E departments.

Hazardous and harmful drinkers make up a significant percentage of A and E attendees, and brief interventions have been shown to reduce harm among this particular group. This paper evaluates a pilot project which introduced a screening and brief intervention programme within the A and E department. This project aimed to screen and offer brief interventions to attendees and to refer on to local alcohol services if required.
GI‐type T4SS‐mediated horizontal transfer of the 89K pathogenicity island in epidemic Streptococcus suis serotype 2
Authors: Li Ming , Shen Xiaodong , Yan Jinghua , Han Huiming , Zheng Beiwen , Liu Di , Cheng Hao , Zhao Yan , Rao Xiancai , Wang Changjun , Tang Jiaqi , Hu Fuquan , Gao George F.
Published: January 2011

Pathogenicity islands (PAIs), a distinct type of genomic island (GI), play important roles in the rapid adaptation and increased virulence of pathogens. 89K is a newly identified PAI in epidemic Streptococcus suis isolates that are related to the two recent large‐scale outbreaks of human infection in China. However, its mechanism of evolution and contribution to the epidemic spread of S. suis 2 remain unknown. In this study, the potential for mobilization of 89K was evaluated, and its putative transfer mechanism was investigated. We report that 89K can spontaneously excise to form an extrachromosomal circular product. The precise excision is mediated by an 89K‐borne integrase through site‐specific recombination, with help from an excisionase. The 89K excision intermediate acts as a substrate for lateral transfer to non‐89K S. suis 2 recipients, where it reintegrates site‐specifically into the target site. The conjugal transfer of 89K occurred via a GI type IV secretion system (T4SS) encoded in 89K, at a frequency of 10−6 transconjugants per donor. This is the first demonstration of horizontal transfer of a Gram‐positive PAI mediated by a GI‐type T4SS. We propose that these genetic events are important in the emergence, pathogenesis and persistence of epidemic S. suis 2 strains.
Association of HLA‐B*1502 allele with carbamazepine‐induced toxic epidermal necrolysis and Stevens–Johnson syndrome in the multi‐ethnic Malaysian population
Authors: Chang Choong‐Chor , Too Chun‐Lai , Murad Shahnaz , Hussein Suraiya Hani
Published: January 2011

Background  Carbamazepine (CBZ), a frequently used anticonvulsant drug, is one of the most common causes of life‐threatening cutaneous adverse drug reactions such as toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) and Stevens–Johnson syndrome (SJS). Recent studies have revealed a strong association between HLA‐B*1502 and CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS in the Taiwan Han Chinese population.

Objectives  This study is aimed to investigate the association between human leucocyte antigens (HLA) and CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS in the multi‐ethnic Malaysian population.

Methods  A sample of 21 unrelated patients with CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS and 300 race‐matched, healthy controls were genotyped for HLA‐A, ‐B and ‐DR using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). Allele frequencies were compared.

Results  HLA‐B*1502 was present in 75.0% (12/16) of Malay patients with CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS but in only 15.7% (47/300) of normal controls (odds ratio 16.15, 95% confidence interval 4.57–62.4; corrected P‐value = 7.87 × 10−6), which suggests a strong association between HLA and CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS. Additionally, HLA‐B*1502 was found in all three Chinese and two Indian patients. Existing data show that frequencies of the HLA‐B*1502 allele are generally much higher in Asian populations than in White European populations, which explains the higher incidences of SJS and TEN in Asian countries.

Conclusions  HLA‐B*1502 is strongly associated with CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS in the Malay population in Malaysia, as has been seen in Han Chinese in Taiwan. This indicates that the genetic association apparent in the incidence of CBZ‐induced TEN/SJS is linked with the presence of HLA‐B*1502, irrespective of racial origin. Screening of patients for this genetic marker can help to prevent the occurrence of TEN/SJS.
The effect of supplementary bacterial phytase on dietary metabolisable energy, nutrient retention and endogenous losses in precision fed broiler chickens
Authors: Pirgozliev V. , Bedford M. R. , Oduguwa O. , Acamovic T. , Allymehr M.
Published: January 2011

Thirty‐two Ross 308 male broiler chickens were used in a precision feeding assay to investigate the effect of exogenous phytase (EC 3.1.3.26) on dietary apparent metabolisable energy (AME), dry matter digestibility (DMD) coefficient, nitrogen (NR), amino acid and mineral retentions. The excretion of endogenous losses measured as sialic acid (SA) was also determined. Four dietary treatments (control (C), C + 250 FTU (phytase units per kg feed), C + 500 FTU, and C + 2500 FTU) were studied with each treatment replicated eight times in randomised complete block design. Diets were formulated to be nutritionally adequate with the exception of available P content (2.3 g/kg non‐phytate P). Over the 48‐h collection period, the phytase fed birds retained 29.3 mg more Na and 2.3 mg more Zn (p < 0.05) than the control fed birds, with the relationship between phytase dose and Na and Zn retention being best described by a linear function (p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, for Na and Zn, respectively). Phytase supplementation did not have an effect on dietary AME, DMD and NR. However, increasing the dose of phytase led to a linear increase in dietary amino acid retention (p < 0.05). Dietary phytase decreased total sialic acid excretion in a linear fashion (p < 0.05). It can be concluded that supplementary phytase increases the retention (reduces the excretion) of dietary Zn and Na in broiler chickens. The beneficial effects of the addition of exogenous phytases to poultry diets seems to be mediated through improved dietary nutrients absorption and reduced endogenous losses.
Optical imaging of propofol‐induced central respiratory depression in medulla–spinal cord preparations from newborn rats
Authors: Kashiwagi Masanori , Osaka Yoshimune , Onimaru Hiroshi , Takeda Junzo
Published: January 2011

1. Propofol (2,6‐diisopropylphenol) is an intravenous anaesthetic used for the induction and maintenance of general anaesthesia; it also potently and dose‐dependently depresses respiration. The aim of the present study was to analyse propofol‐induced changes in spatiotemporal patterns of inspiratory‐related neural activity and to investigate the involvement of the GABAA receptor by using an optical imaging technique.

2. The brain stems and spinal cords of 0–1‐day‐old Wistar rats were isolated and stained using a fluorescent voltage‐sensitive dye. Neuronal activity in the preparation was detected using an optical recording apparatus containing a charge‐coupled device (CCD)‐based camera.

3. Bath‐applied propofol (7.5 μmol/L) decreased the C4 burst rate to 45.9% of baseline. Although optical signals corresponding to membrane depolarization during the pre‐inspiratory phase in the parafacial region of the ventral medulla decreased to 28.7% of baseline following propofol application, those during the inspiratory phase in the caudal part of the rostral ventrolateral medulla did not.

4. The inhibitory effect of bath‐applied propofol was reversed by 2 μmol/L bicuculline.

5. Changes in optical signals corresponding to the population activity of pre‐inspiratory neurons were parallel to changes in the C4 burst rate.

6. The results suggest that propofol decreases the inspiratory burst rate by reducing the activity of pre‐inspiratory neurons and that GABAA receptor activation plays a role in propofol‐induced central respiratory depression. These results are consistent with those of previous electrophysiological studies.
Decline in rotavirus hospitalisations following introduction of Australia's national rotavirus immunisation programme
Authors: Macartney Kristine K , Porwal Mamta , Dalton Dianne , Cripps Terri , Maldigri Trish , Isaacs David , Kesson Alison
Published: January 2011

Aim:  To determine the impact of rotavirus immunisation on rotavirus hospitalisations in young children.

Methods:  Annual hospitalisations for rotavirus gastroenteritis to The Children's Hospital at Westmead, a tertiary care paediatric hospital in Sydney, were recorded from 2001 for 6 years prior to and 2.5 years following the introduction of rotavirus vaccines to the National Immunisation Program. Data on hospital‐acquired rotavirus gastroenteritis were collected prospectively.

Results:  Hospitalisations for rotavirus gastroenteritis declined in the two full rotavirus seasons (2008 and 2009) after vaccine introduction by 75% compared with mean annual hospitalisations from 2001 to 2006. The greatest decline was seen in those <12 months of age (93%), but the reduction occurred consistently across all age groups, even in children not eligible for immunisation, suggesting an effect on herd immunity. A substantial decline in nosocomial rotavirus gastroenteritis was seen from 2007 to 2009, suggesting a reduction in virus transmission in the hospital setting.

Conclusion:  This study demonstrates a substantial reduction in hospitalisations in children of all ages to a large paediatric hospital and reduced nosocomial infections since the introduction of a nationally funded rotavirus immunisation programme in Australia.
Recent advances in breast feeding
Authors: WOOLRIDGE MICHAEL W. , PHIL D. , BAUM J. DAVID
Published: January 2011

Increasingly, epidemiological studies are showing the benefits of exclusive breast‐feeding to infants in industrialized countries, as they have previously for those in developing countries. In this review we have focused on several recent developments, in particular on the interplay between infant behaviour and maternal physiology in regulating breast milk supply. This will illustrate that many past and current clinical problems concerning breast‐feeding are likely to be of iatrogenic origin, the products of imposing arbitrary rules for breast‐feeding management. In order for the protective benefits to be fully realized it is necessary to ensure that breast‐feeding is free from prescriptive practices. We will illustrate the key role played by the infants' control of appetite in the hope of encouraging clinicians to empower infants to exercise more control over the feeding process.
Steroid‐free interval with anti‐D in chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura
Authors: CAGLAYAN SUAT , AKSIT SADIK , YAPRAK ISIN , AYDINLIOGLU HALIL , ÖZDOGRU ECE , OZERKAN EBRU
Published: January 2011

Chronic idiopathic thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP) is an autoimmune disease characterized by the antibody‐mediated destruction of platelets. To maintain the platelets above the symptomatic level we administered 100 μg of anti‐D for 5 consecutive days to 19 children with ITP. Four patients did not respond to the treatment. Fifteen responded with an increase in the average platelet number to 76 000/μL 7 days postinjection. However, the platelet count dropped within 45 days to 27 000/μL. Three months after this study, two patients from the study group were then administered monthly anti‐D after reinjecting anti‐D daily for 5 consecutive days, as previously performed. Platelet levels in these two patients were maintained above 30 000/μL for 5 and 6 months respectively.

We concluded that anti‐D administration for 5 consecutive days can induce an increase in platelets followed by a decrease below 30 000/μL after 30–45 days. However, monthly administration of anti‐D after daily injections for 5 consecutive days can keep platelets above the symptomatic level and may provide a corticosteroid‐free safe interval for nearly 5 months.
Treatment of an infant with congenital sodium diarrhea by oral rehydration
Authors: Kidowaki Takuro , FUNAKI HIDENORI , MIZUTA RYUZO , NISHIKI TETSUO , TAKADA HIROSHI
Published: January 2011

We have been following a male case of congenital sodium diarrhea (CNaD), who had a distended abdomen, passed watery stools with high sodium concentration, and showed metabolic acidosis in the first week of life. He also showed hyponatremia, low urine sodium, high serum aldosterone and high renin activity. Other possible causes of secretory diarrhea were ruled out. The initial effective treatment was oral supplements of water and electrolytes lost in the fecal fluid: with this he gained weight, and hyponatremia and metabolic acidosis were corrected. Loperamide hydrochloride was administered to increase intestinal absorption of sodium, as the serum prostaglandin was high. Watery diarrhea then improved, but as he passed acholic stools, we stopped and postponed the treatment for a while; the stools then became watery again. Although diarrhea has persisted, he has not shown any abnormalities in growth or psychomotor development for the first two years of life.
Serum thyroid hormones and pituitary response to thyrotropin‐releasing hormone in epileptic children receiving anti‐epileptic medication
Authors: Yüksel Adnan , KARTAL AYŞIN , CENANI ASIM , YALÇIN ERDINÇ
Published: January 2011

Thyroid hormones and pituitary function were assessed in 49 children with epilepsy who were receiving either a single medication of carbamazepine, phenobarbital and valproate or a combination of carbamazepine with phenobarbital or valproate. All therapeutic regimens except valproate monotherapy were associated with low levels of circulating thyroxine, free tri‐iodothyronine and free thyroxine. Carbamazepine with valproate was associated with the lowest serum concentration of thyroid hormones. It seems probable that accelerated hormone metabolism is responsible for these hormonal changes. However, all drug regimens also had effects on the function of the hypothalamic pituitary axis. Because of these findings, thyroid hormones should be checked frequently during anti‐epileptic drug treatment, although clinical hypothyroidism was not seen in our patients.
Serum anti‐streptococcal IgA, IgG and IgM antibodies in IgA‐associated diseases
Authors: NAKATSUKA KENJI
Published: January 2011

Serum anti‐streptolysin‐O antibody (ASO) and anti‐streptococcal polysaccharide antibody (ASP) of IgA, IgG and IgM classes were measured using an enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 41 children with IgA nephropathy (Group A), 15 children with uncomplicated anaphylactoid purpura (Group B) and 13 children with purpura nephritis (Group C). The serum concentrations of the IgA, IgG and IgM classes were measured by single radial immunodiffusion. When compared with sex‐ and age‐matched controls, the concentrations of serum IgA (but not of IgG or IgM) were significantly increased in the three groups studied. The titers of ASO of the IgA and IgM classes, and those of ASP of the IgA and IgG classes, were significantly increased in Group A. In Group B, only the ASP titers of the IgA class were significantly increased. No significant difference was noted in the titers of either ASO or ASP of any class in Group C. Thus, increased antibody response in IgA nephropathy is not restricted to IgA. Anaphylactoid purpura with or without renal disease appears to be different in its humoral anti‐streptococcal response from IgA nephropathy.
Hypofibrinogenemia in a girl with Langerhans cell histiocytosis during etoposide and prednisolone therapy
Authors: MIURA TAKUMA , NAKAMURA MITSURU , TSUNEMATSU YUKIKO , FUJIMOTO JUNICHIRO , MEGURO TAKASHI , YAMADA KANEO
Published: January 2011

A case of a girl with Langerhans cell histiocytosis who had hypofibrinogenemia during etoposide (VP‐16) and prednisolone therapy is described. A patient on a three times per week schedule of 100 mg/m2 etoposide in combination with 40 mg/m2 of prednisolone every day had hypofibrinogenemia of 90 mg/dL after 12 doses of etoposide. Hypofibrinogenemia improved after discontinuing the course of etoposide. The clinical course suggested that the combination of etoposide with prednisolone caused this side‐effect. Although the exact mechanism of toxicity of etoposide with prednisolone remains unknown, it is possible that the side‐effect might be due to reduced production of fibrinogen in the liver. Careful monitoring of fibrinogen is mandatory in patients receiving etoposide and prednisolone.
Definition and classification of childhood injuries
Authors: CHRISTOFFEL KATHERINE KAUFER
Published: January 2011

Injuries have emerged as the leading cause of child and adolescent morbidity and mortality in developed countries. Efforts to control injuries require injury surveillance and research, creating the need for standard variable definitions and categorizations. Advantages of such standardization include increased comparability of data sets, avoidance of spurious conclusions based on idiosyncratic definitions and categories and the potential to combine data sets (e.g. on injuries and population counts) to yield new information. Pertinent standards will differ depending on the purposes for which the data are collected. More limited (core) data are appropriate to surveillance and more extensive data to research. Existing standards that are likely to be most useful to pediatric injury investigators are the International Classification of Diseases External Cause (E) codes (which provide mechanism‐of‐injury diagnoses and are the international gold standard for injury data reporting) and the Standard Definitions for Childhood Injury Research recently released by the United States National Institute for Child Health and Human Development, which include both core and complete variable listings. Some key core definitions from the latter report are presented.
Childhood injuries in Japan
Authors: TANAKA TETSURO
Published: January 2011

Approximately 2000 children aged between 0 and 14 years die annually of accidents and their sequelae in Japan. Moreover, accidents and their sequelae are the leading cause of death in the 1–4 year, 5–9 year and 10–14 year age groups. Accidental drowning and traffic accidents account for 2/3 of all such deaths. Measures for preventing injury in these age groups are clearly necessary, since the mortality rate due to accidents and their sequelae in children 0 to 4 years old is higher in Japan than in European countries.

It is considered that the lives of 824 infants aged between 0 and 4 years might be saved annually in Japan if the mortality rate could be reduced to a level comparable to that in Sweden by accident prevention and control. Therefore, a systematic approach for prevention of childhood injury is a high priority in Japan.
The effect of nifedipine on monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary hypertension in rats
Authors: INOUE MAKOTO , HARADA YURIKA , WATANABE KOJI , MORI CHUZO , TANAKA OSAMU
Published: January 2011

Effective drug therapy for pulmonary hypertension has not yet been developed. This study was designed to estimate the long‐term hemodynamic and histopathological effects of nifedipine on severe pulmonary hypertension using animal models.

Injection of one dose of monocrotaline produced subacute pulmonary hypertension in 7 week old Sprague‐Dawley rats. Nifedipine (10 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally every day. For 5 weeks, bodyweight and hemodynamic parameters were measured, and right ventricle (RV) and left ventricle with septum (LV + S) were weighed separately. Medial thickness of the small pulmonary arterial wall was calculated by Suwa's method.

Compared with the control group, the increase in right ventricular systolic pressure, total pulmonary resistance index, weight ratio of RV/(LV + S) and medial hypertrophy in the nifedipine‐treated rats were significantly limited without causing systemic hypotension.

These results suggest that treatment with nifedipine may also be effective in attenuation of pulmonary hypertension when applied to humans.
Cardiac atrial natriuretic peptide in monocrotaline‐induced pulmonary hypertensive rats
Authors: OHIE TAKAHARU , KIKUCHI KIYOSHI , WATANABE KOJI , MORI CHUZO
Published: January 2011

To determine the time course and potential triggers for synthesis of atrial natriuretic peptide (ANP) in right ventricle during the development of right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH), we measured mean right atrial pressure, right ventricular systolic pressure (RVSP), immunoreactive ANP (iANP) concentrations in plasma, and cardiac iANP concentrations and contents of monocrotaline (MCT)‐induced pulmonary hypertensive rats treated with a subcutaneous injection of MCT (40 mg/kg). Following the development of RVH and pulmonary hypertension, iANP concentrations in plasma and iANP concentrations and contents in ventricular tissues increased with time. At the third week after treatment, iANP concentrations in MCT rats increased 6‐fold in plasma, 57‐fold in the right ventricular free wall, 20‐fold in the ventricular septum and 10‐fold in the left ventricular free wall compared with those in controls. At the third week, iANP contents of total ventricular tissues in MCT and control rats were 29% and 0.8%, respectively, of the corresponding atrial contents. The iANP concentrations and contents of right ventricular free walls in MCT rats were greater than those of any other parts of ventricular tissues. The iANP concentrations in right ventricular free walls were very closely related to RVSP (r = 0.93, P < 0.001). In MCT rats, iANP concentrations in right atrial tissues decreased with time. This study shows that ventricular ANP contributes to the amount of ANP stored within the heart in MCT rats and that pressure overload may be one of the triggers for ANP synthesis in the right ventricle.
Radionuclide assessment of left ventricular performance on exercise after external conduit operation
Authors: SUDA KENJI , IWATANI HAJIME , MORI CHUZO , HIROTA HAMAO , OUCHI HIDEO , ONO YASUO , KOHATA TOHRU , KAMIYA TETSUROU , YAGIHARA TOSHIKATSU , NISHIMURA TSUNEHIKO , TAKAMIYA MAKOTO
Published: January 2011

Only limited information is available concerning left ventricular (LV) response to exercise after an external conduit operation for cyanotic congenital heart disease. Sixteen patients who had undergone external conduit repair (EC group) were studied with multi‐gated cardiac pool imaging using a supine bicycle ergometer on 20 occasions. Six patients with a history of Kawasaki disease without coronary artery stenosis served as controls (control group). Myocardial imaging and cardiac catheterization were also performed in the EC group.

There was no significant difference in left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) at rest between the groups. However, on exercise, LVEF of the EC group was significantly lower than that of the control group.

Nine patients in the EC group showed a perfusion defect (PD) on 12 occasions. LVEF on exercise of the patients with PD was significantly lower than that of the patients without PD. Furthermore, only the patients with PD showed a LVEF decrease of 5% or more in response to exercise.

In the EC group, a significant inverse relationship was demonstrated between right ventricular systolic pressure (RVP) and LVEF response to exercise. However, two out of four patients who underwent external conduit replacement improved their LVEF response to exercise with successful reduction of RVP.

These findings indicate that an impaired left ventricular response to exercise was common in patients after external conduit operations. Myocardial damage and right ventricular outflow tract obstruction could be the causes of this left ventricular dysfunction.
Serum lipoprotein(a) in healthy Japanese children 5 years of age
Authors: OHJI TARO , CHIBA KOUICHI , KOHRI TAKEO , YAMAGISHI MINORU
Published: January 2011

Serum lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)] concentrations were investigated in 155 Japanese children aged 5 years. The frequency distribution of Lp(a) concentrations was highly skewed and ranged from 1 to 109 mg/dL. The mean and median values of Lp(a) were 16.5 mg/dL (s.d. 17.3 mg/dL) and 12 mg/dL. The incidence of Lp(a) concentrations ≥30 mg/dL was significantly high in children with total cholesterol ≥3200 mg/dL, not including the case of familial hypercholesterolaemia. Log Lp(a) values showed an inverse correlation with bodyweight and body mass index. No significant differences in Lp(a) levels could be seen between the groups according to the presence or absence of coronary heart disease and cerebral vascular accident in family histories. The results suggest that Lp(a) in Japanese children aged 5 years was essentially the same as that in adults. Further study may be needed to disclose the factors that influence Lp(a) concentration in childhood.