bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progression of chronic periodontitis can be predicted by the levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis and Treponema denticola in subgingival plaque
Authors: Byrne S. J. , Dashper S. G. , Darby I. B. , Adams G. G. , Hoffmann B. , Reynolds E. C.
Published: October 2009

Introduction:  Chronic periodontitis is an inflammatory disease of the supporting tissues of the teeth associated with bacteria. Diagnosis is achieved retrospectively by clinical observation of attachment loss. Predicting disease progression would allow for targeted preventive therapy. The aim of this study was to monitor disease progression in patients on a maintenance program and determine the levels of specific bacteria in subgingival plaque samples and then examine the ability of the clinical parameters of disease and levels of specific bacteria in the plaque samples to predict disease progression.

Methods:  During a 12‐month longitudinal study of 41 subjects, 25 sites in 21 subjects experienced disease progression indicated by at least 2 mm of clinical attachment loss. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to determine the levels of Porphyromonas gingivalis, Treponema denticola, Tannerella forsythia, Fusobacterium nucleatum, and Prevotella intermedia in subgingival plaque samples.

Results:  No clinical parameters were able to predict periodontal disease progression. In sites undergoing imminent periodontal disease progression within the next 3 months, significant partial correlations were found between P. gingivalis and T. forsythia (r = 0.55, P < 0.001) and T. denticola and T. forsythia (r = 0.43, P = 0.04). The odds of a site undergoing imminent periodontal disease progression increased with increasing levels of P. gingivalis and T. denticola.

Conclusion:  Monitoring the proportions of P. gingivalis and T. denticola in subgingival plaque has the potential to help identify sites at significant risk for progression of periodontitis, which would assist in the targeted treatment of disease.
Characterization of L‐cysteine desulfhydrase from Prevotella intermedia
Authors: Yano T. , Fukamachi H. , Yamamoto M. , Igarashi T.
Published: October 2009

Introduction:  Hydrogen sulfide is responsible for lysis of red blood cells and is a major compound for oral malodor. To clarify the production mechanism of hydrogen sulfide in Prevotella intermedia, we found an l‐cysteine desulfhydrase gene (lcs) homologue on the genome database of P. intermedia ATCC25611 and characterized its gene product.

Methods:  The lcs gene homologue cloned into pGEX6p‐1 vector was expressed in Escherichia coli and purified. Lcs activity was assayed by detection of the reaction products (hydrogen sulfide and pyruvate) or its derivatives from l‐cysteine. Site‐directed mutagenesis was used to convert an amino acid of the Lcs molecule.

Results:  The purified lcs gene product catalysed the degradation of l‐cysteine to pyruvate, ammonia, and hydrogen sulfide, indicating that the protein is l‐cysteine desulfhydrase. The enzyme required pyridoxal 5′‐phosphate as a cofactor, and it was highly active at pH 7.0 and completely inhibited by ZnCl2. The Km and Vmax of the enzyme were 0.7 mm and 4.2 μmol/min/mg, respectively. Replacement of Tyr‐59, Tyr‐118, Asp‐198, and Lys‐233 with any of the amino acids resulted in the complete disappearance of Lcs activity, implying that these amino acids are essential for enzyme activity. In addition, hydrogen sulfide produced by this enzyme lysed sheep red blood cells and modified hemoglobin.

Conclusion:  These results show the enzymatic properties of l‐cysteine desulfhydrase from P. intermedia ATCC25611 and also suggest that the Lcs enzyme, which produces hydrogen sulfide from l‐cysteine, is closely associated with the pathogenesis of P. intermedia.
Effect of probiotic mix (Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus) in the primary prevention of eczema: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Kim Ji Yeun , Kwon Jung Hyun , Ahn So Hyun , Lee Sang Il , Han Young Shin , Choi Young Ok , Lee Soo Young , Ahn Kang Mo , Ji Geun Eog
Published: October 2009

Kim JY, Kwon JH, Ahn SH, Lee SI, Han YS, Choi YO, Lee SY, Ahn KM, Ji GE. Effect of probiotic mix (Bifidobacterium bifidum, Bifidobacterium lactis, Lactobacillus acidophilus) in the primary prevention of eczema: a double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: e386–e393. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Controversy exists regarding the preventive effect of probiotics on the development of eczema or atopic dermatitis. We investigated whether supplementation of probiotics prevents the development of eczema in infants at high risk. In a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 112 pregnant women with a family history of allergic diseases received a once‐daily supplement, either a mixture of Bifidobacterium bifidum BGN4, B. lactis AD011, and Lactobacillus acidophilus AD031, or placebo, starting at 4–8 wks before delivery and continuing until 6 months after delivery. Infants were exclusively breast‐fed during the first 3 months, and were subsequently fed with breastmilk or cow’s milk formula from 4 to 6 months of age. Clinical symptoms of the infants were monitored until 1 yr of age, when the total and specific IgE against common food allergens were measured. A total of 68 infants completed the study. The prevalence of eczema at 1 yr in the probiotic group was significantly lower than in the placebo group (18.2% vs. 40.0%, p = 0.048). The cumulative incidence of eczema during the first 12 months was reduced significantly in probiotic group (36.4% vs. 62.9%, p = 0.029); however, there was no difference in serum total IgE level or the sensitization against food allergens between the two groups. Prenatal and postnatal supplementation with a mixture of B. bifidum BGN4, B. lactis AD011, and L. acidophilus AD031 is an effective approach in preventing the development of eczema in infants at high risk of allergy during the first year of life.
The redox switch: dynamic regulation of protein function by cysteine modifications
Authors: Spadaro Davide , Yun Byung‐Wook , Spoel Steven H. , Chu Chengcai , Wang Yi‐Qin , Loake Gary J.
Published: October 2009

Reactive oxygen intermediates (ROIs) and reactive nitrogen intermediates (RNIs) have now become well established as important signalling molecules in physiological settings within microorganisms, mammals and plants. These intermediates are routinely synthesised in a highly controlled and transient fashion by NADPH‐dependent enzymes, which constitute key regulators of redox signalling. Mild oxidants such as hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and especially nitric oxide (NO) signal through chemical reactions with specific atoms of target proteins that result in covalent protein modifications. Specifically, highly reactive cysteine (Cys) residues of low pKaare a major site of action for these intermediates. The oxidation of target Cys residues can result in a number of distinct redox‐based, post‐translational modifications including S‐nitrosylation, S‐glutathionylation; and sulphenic acid, sulphinic acid and disulphide formation. Importantly, such modifications precisely regulate protein structure and function. Cys‐based redox switches are now increasingly being found to underpin many different signalling systems and regulate physiological outputs across kingdoms.
Validation and clinical feasibility of nitrogen washin/washout functional residual capacity measurements in children
Authors: OLEGÅRD C. , SØNDERGAARD S. , PÅLSSON J. , LUNDIN S. , STENQVIST O.
Published: October 2009

Background: The functional residual capacity (FRC) is an important parameter in pediatric respiratory monitoring but it is difficult to assess in the clinical setting. We have introduced a modified N2 washout method utilizing a change of FIO2 of 0.1 for FRC measurement in adult respiratory monitoring. This study validated the algorithm in a pediatric lung model and investigated the stability and feasibility in a pediatric peri‐operative and intensive care setting.

Methods: The lung model was ventilated in combinations of ventilatory modes, CO2 production, model FRC and respiratory rates. Sixteen children from 10 days to 5 years were studied peri‐operatively with controlled ventilation using a Mapleson D system and in the intensive care unit using a Servo‐i ventilator in a supported spontaneous mode. FRC was measured during stable metabolic, respiratory and circulatory periods at positive end expiratory pressure of 3–4 and 7–8 cmH2O.

Results: In the model and in the clinical setting, we found an excellent agreement between washout and washin measurements of FRC as well as acceptable coefficients of repeatability.

Conclusion: FRC was satisfactorily measured by a modified N2 algorithm and may be included as a monitoring variable in pediatric respiratory care. Pediatric FRC monitoring demands strictly stable conditions as measurements are performed close to the limits of the monitor's specifications.
Pharmacokinetics after an intravenous single dose of the opioid ketobemidone in children
Authors: LUNDEBERG S. , STEPHANSON N. , LAFOLIE P. , OLSSON G. L. , STILLER C.‐O. , EKSBORG S.
Published: October 2009

Background:Ketobemidone is often used as an alternative to morphine in children in the Scandinavian countries. The aim of this clinical trial was to explore the pharmacokinetics of ketobemidone in children because these properties have not been reported previously.

Methods:Thirty children, newborn to 10 years, scheduled for elective surgery were included in the trial. Ketobemidone hydrochloride was administered as a single intravenous bolus dose and ketobemidone and norketobemidone concentrations were measured by LC‐MS over 8 h. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using compartmental methods.

Results:Six children were excluded from pharmacokinetic analysis because of incomplete blood sampling. The values of ketobemidone clearance (l/h/kg) given as median (range) were 0.84 (0.29–3.0) in Group A (0–90 days), 0.89 (0.55–1.35) in Group B (1–2.5 years) and 0.74 (0.50–0.99) in Group C (7–10 years). The corresponding values for apparent volume of distribution (l/kg) were 4.4 (3.7–6.9) (Group A), 2.6 (2.0–5.6) (Group B) and 3.9 (2.7–5.0 (Group C), and for elimination half‐life (h) 3.0 (1.4–8.9) (Group A), 2.0 (1.2–4.7) (Group B) and 3.7 (2.4–6.9) (Group C), respectively. In the two neonates the elimination half‐life was almost 9 h. The metabolite norketobemidone did not reach levels above the limit of quantification (0.07 ng/ml) in any of the patients.

Conclusion:The pharmacokinetic parameters of ketobemidone in children older than 1 month appear to be similar to those in adults. Because of the large interindividual variability of the pharmacokinetics in neonates, further studies especially in this age group are warranted.
Age‐dependent mutational effects curtail the evolution of senescence by antagonistic pleiotropy
Authors: MOORAD J. A. , HALL D. W.
Published: October 2009

One of the two main hypotheses to account for ageing is antagonistic pleiotropy (AP). This model requires alleles that increase vital rates (reproduction or survival) at early age at the expense of vital rates at late age. An important focus of evolutionary studies has been to assess the relative abundance of AP‐type aging alleles that arise through mutation. Here, we develop theory that predicts that senescence per se reduces the probability that these alleles arise by mutation. A direct result is that these mutations should arise with extremely low frequencies in already senescing populations. This has profound implications for the evolution of life histories because it implies that the adaptive evolution of aging via AP will experience negative feedback. This theory also clarifies the previously inexplicable epistatic patterns of genetic covariance across age‐specific vital rates that are observed in mutation accumulation experiments. We show that this epistasis is an emergent property of aging.
Routes to indirect fitness in cooperatively breeding vertebrates: kin discrimination and limited dispersal
Authors: CORNWALLIS C. K. , WEST S. A. , GRIFFIN A. S.
Published: October 2009

Hamilton demonstrated that the evolution of cooperative behaviour is favoured by high relatedness, which can arise through kin discrimination or limited dispersal (population viscosity). These two processes are likely to operate with limited overlap: kin discrimination is beneficial when variation in relatedness is higher, whereas limited dispersal results in less variable and higher average relatedness, reducing selection for kin discrimination. However, most empirical work on eukaryotes has focused on kin discrimination. To address this bias, we analysed how kin discrimination and limited dispersal interact to shape helping behaviour across cooperatively breeding vertebrates. We show that kin discrimination is greater in species where the: (i) average relatedness in groups is lower and more variable; (ii) effect of helpers on breeders reproductive success is greater; and (iii) probability of helping was measured, rather than the amount of help provided. There was also an interaction between these effects with the correlation between the benefits of helping and kin discrimination being stronger in species with higher variance in relatedness. Overall, our results suggest that kin discrimination provides a route to indirect benefits when relatedness is too variable within groups to favour indiscriminate cooperation.
Path analysis of natural selection via survival and fecundity across contrasting environments in Avena barbata
Authors: LATTA R. G. , McCAIN C.
Published: October 2009

We employed path analysis to analyse natural selection through two major fitness components in each of three contrasting environments. Using a randomized block design, 188 Recombinant Inbred Lines (RILs) derived from a cross between contrasting ecotypes of Avena barbata were planted in common gardens in the greenhouse, and in two field sites typical of each ecotype’s native habitat. Individuals were monitored for germination phenology, early growth, survival, final size, flowering phenology, reproductive allocation, fecundity and lifetime reproductive success. The variance/covariance matrix of the RIL (genotype) means was fit to a path model in which total fitness was made up of survival and fecundity (of survivors) components. In the greenhouse, all fitness variation was determined by fecundity variation (with no mortality), which was itself primarily determined by reproductive allocation mediated by date of first flowering. By contrast, in the field, early growth was the major determinant of survival, and final size was the major determinant of fecundity. Both components of fitness affected lifetime reproductive success equally in the field. Thus the major difference between greenhouse and field seems to be a shift from selection on allocation patterns in adults, to selection on resource acquisition, especially at earlier life stages. The pattern of selection was similar in the two field sites, despite the contrasting environments.
Intravenous immunoglobulins induce potentially synergistic immunomodulations in autoimmune disorders
Authors: Imbach P. , Lazarus A. H. , Kühne T.
Published: October 2009

The increase in platelets in patients with immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) by intravenous administration of human immunoglobulin concentrates (IVIG) reflects a therapeutic immunomodulatory intervention targeted at the disturbed immune response in many inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. These immunoglobulin concentrates contain large numbers of antibodies as well as trace levels of various other immunologically active molecules. Clinical and laboratory studies have documented various mechanisms of action of IVIG. The complex network of immunological reactions resulting from the infusion of IVIG includes changes in several cytokines, interactions with dendritic cells, T‐ and B‐ lymphocyte effects, macrophage effects, mediated by distinct Fc‐gamma receptors. In addition, effects on complement components and apoptosis have also been observed. Synergism between the different elements of the immune response characterizes the beneficial effects of IVIG in inflammatory and autoimmune disorders. They have immunopathogeneses and clinical manifestations which are difficult to define and therefore IVIG treatment indications remain heterogeneous. Dose finding studies are missing for most of the indications of the drug. In future research, defining the appropriate subgroups of patients should be undertaken. This may be accomplished by prospective registries collecting data on large numbers of patients with long‐term follow‐up. Controlled clinical and laboratory studies may follow based on new, validated patient selection criteria and focused on mechanisms of action, leading to more evidence‐based indications.
Localization of Vesicular Glutamate Transporter 2 mRNA in the Dorsal Root Ganglion of the Pigeon (Columba Livia)
Authors: Atoji Y. , Islam M. R.
Published: October 2009

Our previous study showed localization of glutamate receptor 1 (GluR1) mRNA in neurons of the pigeon spinal cord, suggesting glutamatergic input from intrinsic and extrinsic origins. The present study examined localization of vesicular glutamate transporter 2 (VGLUT2) mRNA to confirm an extrinsic origin of glutamatergic neurons in the dorsal root ganglion (DRG). GluR1 and GluR2 mRNAs were examined in DRG and spinal cord to seek projection regions from VGLUT2 mRNA‐expressing neurons. VGLUT2 mRNA was expressed in most DRG neurons and labelling intensity varied from weakly to intensely. Intense VGLUT2 mRNA expression was mainly seen in medium to large neurons. GluR1 and GluR2 mRNAs were expressed in the dorsal horn and GluR2 mRNA signal was also seen in the marginal nucleus. The results suggest that the pigeon DRG has an extrinsic glutamatergic origin that project to the dorsal horn and marginal nucleus of the spinal cord.
Pleural malignant mesothelioma with invasive micropapillary component and its association with pulmonary metastasis
Authors: Mogi Ai , Nabeshima Kazuki , Hamasaki Makoto , Uesugi Noriko , Tamura Kazuo , Iwasaki Akinori , Shirakusa Takayuki , Iwasaki Hiroshi
Published: October 2009

The micropapillary pattern (characterized by papillary structure with tufts lacking a central fibrovascular core) is a predictor of aggressive carcinoma. The purpose of the present study was to review 34 pleural malignant mesotheliomas (21 epithelioid, five sarcomatoid, seven biphasic and one lymphohistiocytoid), with special reference to the presence of invasive micropapillary component. Two invasive micropapillary pattern‐positive tumors were identified. The invasive micropapillary pattern was seen to have a focal distribution in 15–20% of the tumor tissues. The majority of the invasive micropapillary clusters expressed MUC1 along the outer cell surface. Analysis of pleural malignant mesotheliomas with epithelioid features and with or without invasive micropapillary pattern (21 epithelioid and seven biphasic subtypes) indicated pulmonary micrometastases in only the invasive micropapillary‐positive tumors (P < 0.015), and the spread was probably via the lymphatics. Lymphatic involvement (confirmed on immunohistochemistry with D2‐40 antibody) and lymph node metastasis were found in both of the invasive micropapillary‐positive tumor patients, whereas they were noted in only one of 10 (10%, P < 0.046) and three of nine (30%) invasive micropapillary‐negative patients. To the authors’ knowledge this is the first study to indicate the presence of invasive micropapillary component in pleural malignant mesothelioma. This component can predict more aggressive lymphatic spread, similar to that of carcinomas in other organs with micropapillary pattern.
Loss of photic entrainment at low illuminances in rats with acute photoreceptor degeneration
Authors: Boudard Domitille L. , Mendoza Jorge , Hicks David
Published: October 2009

In several species, an acute injection of N‐methyl‐N‐nitrosourea (MNU) induces a retinal degeneration characterized principally by a rapid loss of the outer nuclear layer, the other layers remaining structurally intact. It has, however, also been reported that down‐regulation of melanopsin gene expression is associated with the degeneration and is detectable soon after injection. Melanopsin is expressed by a small subset of intrinsically photosensitive retinal ganglion cells and plays an important role in circadian behaviour photoentrainment. We injected MNU into Long Evans rats and investigated the ability of animals to entrain to three light/dark cycles of different light intensities (300, 15 and 1 lux). Control animals entrained their locomotor activity rhythms to the three cycles. In contrast, MNU‐treated animals could only entrain properly to the 300 lux cycle. For the 15 lux cycle, their phase angle was much altered compared with control animals, and for the 1 lux cycle, MNU‐injected animals were unable to photoentrain and exhibited an apparent free‐run activity pattern with a period of 24.3 h. Subsequent to behavioural studies the animals were killed and rod, cone, melanopsin expression and melanopsin‐expressing cells were quantified. Rod and cone loss was almost complete, melanopsin protein was reduced by 83% and melanopsin‐expressing cells were reduced by 37%. Our study provides a comprehensive model of photoreceptor degeneration at the adult stage and a simple and versatile method to investigate the relation between retinal photoreceptors and the circadian system.
Top‐down modulation of auditory processing: effects of sound context, musical expertise and attentional focus
Authors: Tervaniemi M , Kruck S , De Baene W , Schröger E , Alter K , Friederici A. D.
Published: October 2009

By recording auditory electrical brain potentials, we investigated whether the basic sound parameters (frequency, duration and intensity) are differentially encoded among speech vs. music sounds by musicians and non‐musicians during different attentional demands. To this end, a pseudoword and an instrumental sound of comparable frequency and duration were presented. The accuracy of neural discrimination was tested by manipulations of frequency, duration and intensity. Additionally, the subjects’ attentional focus was manipulated by instructions to ignore the sounds while watching a silent movie or to attentively discriminate the different sounds. In both musicians and non‐musicians, the pre‐attentively evoked mismatch negativity (MMN) component was larger to slight changes in music than in speech sounds. The MMN was also larger to intensity changes in music sounds and to duration changes in speech sounds. During attentional listening, all subjects more readily discriminated changes among speech sounds than among music sounds as indexed by the N2b response strength. Furthermore, during attentional listening, musicians displayed larger MMN and N2b than non‐musicians for both music and speech sounds. Taken together, the data indicate that the discriminative abilities in human audition differ between music and speech sounds as a function of the sound‐change context and the subjective familiarity of the sound parameters. These findings provide clear evidence for top‐down modulatory effects in audition. In other words, the processing of sounds is realized by a dynamically adapting network considering type of sound, expertise and attentional demands, rather than by a strictly modularly organized stimulus‐driven system.
Diversity and host specificity of the Verminephrobacter–earthworm symbiosis
Authors: Lund Marie B. , Davidson Seana K. , Holmstrup Martin , James Sam , Kjeldsen Kasper U. , Stahl David A. , Schramm Andreas
Published: October 2009

Symbiotic bacteria of the genus Verminephrobacter (Betaproteobacteria) were detected in the nephridia of 19 out of 23 investigated earthworm species (Oligochaeta: Lumbricidae) by 16S rRNA gene sequence analysis and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). While all four Lumbricus species and three out of five Aporrectodea species were densely colonized by a mono‐species culture of Verminephrobacter, other earthworm species contained mixed bacterial populations with varying proportions of Verminephrobacter; four species did not contain Verminephrobacter at all. The Verminephrobacter symbionts could be grouped into earthworm species‐specific sequence clusters based on their 16S rRNA and RNA polymerase subunit B (rpoB) genes. Closely related host species harboured more closely related symbionts than did distantly related hosts. Co‐diversification of the symbiotic partners could not be demonstrated unambiguously due to the poor resolution of the host phylogeny [based on histone H3 and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequence analyses]. However, there was a pattern of symbiont diversification within four groups of closely related hosts. The mean rate of symbiont 16S rRNA gene evolution was determined using a relaxed clock model, and the rate was calibrated with paleogeographical estimates of the time of origin of Lumbricid earthworms. The calibrated rates of symbiont 16S rRNA gene evolution are 0.012–0.026 substitutions per site per 50 million years and thus similar to rates reported from other symbiotic bacteria.
Tactics‐Based Behavioural Planning for Goal‐Driven Rigid Body Control
Authors: Zickler Stefan , Veloso Manuela
Published: October 2009

Controlling rigid body dynamic simulations can pose a difficult challenge when constraints exist on the bodies' goal states and the sequence of intermediate states in the resulting animation. Manually adjusting individual rigid body control actions (forces and torques) can become a very labour‐intensive and non‐trivial task, especially if the domain includes a large number of bodies or if it requires complicated chains of inter‐body collisions to achieve the desired goal state. Furthermore, there are some interactive applications that rely on rigid body models where no control guidance by a human animator can be offered at runtime, such as video games.

In this work, we present techniques to automatically generate intelligent control actions for rigid body simulations. We introduce sampling‐based motion planning methods that allow us to model goal‐driven behaviour through the use of non‐deterministic Tactics that consist of intelligent, sampling‐based control‐blocks, called Skills. We introduce and compare two variations of a Tactics‐driven planning algorithm, namely behavioural Kinodynamic Rapidly Exploring Random Trees (BK‐RRT) and Behavioural Kinodynamic Balanced Growth Trees (BK‐BGT). We show how our planner can be applied to automatically compute the control sequences for challenging physics‐based domains and that is scalable to solve control problems involving several hundred interacting bodies, each carrying unique goal constraints.
The Limitations of Heuristics for Political Elites
Authors: Miler Kristina C.
Published: October 2009

Despite the extensive literature on citizens' use of cognitive heuristics in political settings, far less is known about how political elites use these shortcuts. Legislative elites benefit from the efficiency of the accessibility heuristic, but their judgments can also be flawed if accessible information is incomplete or unrepresentative. Using personal interviews and a quasi‐experimental design, this paper examines the use of the accessibility heuristic by professional legislative staff when assessing the importance of natural resources issues to their constituents. Staff members recall only a small subset of the relevant constituents in the district, and this subset is biased in favor of active and resource‐rich constituents over other, equally relevant constituents. This paper provides a new application of cognitive psychology to political elites and addresses important normative questions about the importance of information processing for political representation. By drawing on the psychology literature on heuristics, this paper identifies the cognitive mechanisms of congressional representation and provides new evidence of old biases.
Theoretical rhetoric about migration networks: A case of a journey of Bangladeshi workers to Malaysia
Authors: Ahsan Ullah AKM
Published: October 2009

This paper analyses the routes that Bangladeshi migrant workers take to get to Malaysia. This paper also tests the basic tenets and the applicability of networks theory with the empirical reality on the routes. In order to test it, the route negotiated by Bangladeshi migrant workers from Bangladesh to Malaysia is considered. Network theory proposes that migration, in terms of reduction of costs and mitigation of risks, is facilitated by networks.

Data demonstrate that majority of the respondents had incurred exorbitant costs on their migration. To get to their destination, half of the respondents took around a month, a quarter of them took between one and two months, while a person traveling in a normal way could make the same air journey safely in three hours. En route they suffered many other severe adversities: such as starvation, maltreatment, and were forced to pass through deep jungles. Thus, this study directly challenges the theory by illustrating that despite their access to networks, their migration was marked by a lengthy, painful, and hazardous journey.
Multicultural Challenges in Korea: the Current Stage and a Prospect
Authors: Kim Nam‐Kook
Published: October 2009

This paper examines the recent challenges of cultural diversity in the Republic of Korea and predicts possible developments in the future. I explain the current stage of development in the Korean society towards multiculturalism through a three‐stage framework: tolerance, legalization of non‐discrimination, and multiculturalism. Each stage of development will be analysed through several sub measures. To better understand Korea’s unique situation, I also contrast two different perspectives, namely, state top‐down and society bottom‐up explanations. I will counter the claim of the state‐initiated instrumental multiculturalism thesis that assumes a proactive Korean government’s initiative to control immigration and adopt multicultural policy as a strategy to compensate for a labour shortage. This paper will instead argue from the liberal democracy thesis. Democratization in Korea has confirmed the relevance of liberal democracy thesis, which presupposes two conditions: the increasing demand for cultural rights by minorities and liberal constitutional government’s inevitable acceptance of such demands. Unlike the claim of state‐initiated instrumental multiculturalism, strong voices of NGOs in civil society since the mid‐1990s have influenced the development of a multiculturalism friendly atmosphere. The Korean government has also been under the pressure of political correctness toward the inevitable acceptance of cultural diversity with the deepening of democratic consolidation as well as globalization.
New peptidic active ingredient to reduce discomfort and painful sensations in sensitive skin
Authors: Pauly Gilles , Moussou Philippe , Contet‐Audonneau Jean‐Luc , Danoux Louis , Freis Olga , Sabadotto Mélanie , Benoit Isabelle , Misery Laurent , Rathjens Andreas
Published: October 2009

IFSCC Magazines, 12 (2009) (1) 25–30

Approximately 40% of the population (all skin categories and phototypes) complain of sensitive skin. Sensitive skin is healthy but overresponsive, meaning it reacts faster and more intensely to several parameters including environmental factors such as temperature changes and the sun, use of cosmetic products, and certain medicines. It experiences discomfort, tingling, burning and intolerance to certain types of products, a condition referred to as neurosensitivity characterized by a lower threshold of tolerance. Currently, all of the causes are not known but an increase in the permeability of the stratum corneum and an exaggeration of the nerve response are considered to be involved in the phenomenon of sensitive skin. Lifestyle factors including tobacco, alcohol, stress, fatigue and emotions also have an effect. A new synthetic tetrapeptide, N‐acetyl‐L‐tyrosyl‐L‐prolyl‐L‐phenylalanyl‐L‐phenylalaninamide (Ac‐YPFF‐NH2), mimicking a natural opioid peptide was developed with the aim to decrease skin nerve ending stimulation. This tetrapeptide was demonstrated in vitro to reduce cutaneous overreactivity by decreasing release of calcitonin gene‐related peptide from sensory neurons via an agonist effect on the μ opioid receptors and in vivo to improve the comfort of sensitive skin by decreasing unpleasant sensations and pain induced by heat and capsaicin. This tetrapeptide targeting an exaggerated nerve response helps to relieve sensitive skin by normalizing the tolerance threshold for environmental factors or certain topically applied uncomfortable products or skincare treatments.

Keywords:  Calcitonin gene‐related peptide, μ opioid receptor, nerve endings, peptide, sensitive skin
Down syndrome health screening – the Fife model
Authors: Jones Jill , Hathaway Dorothy , Gilhooley Mary , Leech Amanda , MacLeod Susan
Published: October 2009

Accessible summary

 People with Down syndrome have their own health needs which may be different from those of the general population.

 We wanted to know if we could pick up these health needs by inviting people to a regular clinic

 We found that by coming to the clinic to have their health checked, some people found out about a health need that they might not have known about otherwise.

People with Down syndrome have a greater risk of developing a range of health problems, including cardiac problems, thyroid disorders, sensory impairments, reduced muscle tone (hypotonia) and Alzheimer’s disease. Despite this increased risk, regular screening is not typically offered to individuals with Down syndrome.

A multidisciplinary health screening clinic was set up by a Community Learning Disability Team in Fife to offer regular health screening to people with Down syndrome. The format of the clinic, outcomes after 18 months and future service developments are discussed.
A Mutation that Creates a Pseudoexon in SOD1 Causes Familial ALS
Authors: Valdmanis Paul N. , Belzil Veronique V. , Lee James , Dion Patrick A. , St‐Onge Judith , Hince Pascale , Funalot Benoit , Couratier Philippe , Clavelou Pierre , Camu William , Rouleau Guy A.
Published: October 2009

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is an adult onset neurodegenerative disease which targets motor neurons of the cortex, brainstem and spinal cord. About 5–10% of all amyotrophic lateral sclerosis cases are familial (FALS), and 15–20% of FALS cases are caused by mutations in the zinc‐copper superoxide dismutase gene (SOD1). We identified a large family from France with ten members affected with ALS. Linkage was established to the SOD1 locus on chromosome 21 and genomic and cDNA sequencing was performed for the SOD1 gene. This revealed an activated pseudoexon between exons 4 and 5 that was present in two tested members of the family. Translation of this 43 base pair exon results in the introduction of seven amino acids before a stop codon is present, leading to a prematurely truncated SOD1 protein product of 125 amino acids. Sequencing intron 4 in a patient revealed a heterozygous change 304 bp before exon 5 (c.358 – 304C > G), but only 5 bp after the cryptic exon, thus causing this alternative splice product. This mutation segregated in all affected individuals of the family. This adds an additional genetic mechanism for developing SOD1‐linked ALS and is one which can be more readily targeted by gene therapy.
Using research evidence in mental health: user‐rating and focus group study of clinicians’ preferences for a new clinical question‐answering service
Authors: Barley Elizabeth A. , Murray Joanna , Churchill Rachel
Published: October 2009

Background and objectives:  Clinicians report difficulties using research in their practices. The aim of the study was to describe needs and preferences for a mental health clinical question‐answering service designed to assist this process.

Method:  Multi‐disciplinary clinicians participated in a focus group; users of the service supplied feedback.

Results:  Fifty‐four clinicians received answers to 84 questions about mental health treatments. User ratings showed that the answers had multiple uses: informing health care (43), education (22), staff development (28) and research (12), and were considered useful, clear, relevant and helpful. Focus group participants appreciated critically appraised summaries of evidence and stressed the time‐saving benefit of the service. Clinicians without a medical training were least confident in applying evidence. Attitudes to research were positive, but concern was expressed about its potential misuse for political purposes. This appeared to arise from an ambiguity around the term ‘insufficient evidence’, which participants felt is widely misinterpreted as ‘evidence of no effect’.

Conclusions:  A highly valued, responsive service has been developed. A range of clinicians find critically appraised summaries of research useful. Education about the use of research may help clinicians to be more evidence based.
The open access movement and Cuban health research work: an author survey
Authors: Sánchez‐Tarragó Nancy , Carlos Fernández‐Molina J.
Published: October 2009

Objective:  To assess the level of knowledge about and the attitudes of the Cuban health researchers towards the open access movement.

Methods:  A descriptive, cross‐sectional study was conducted from March to June 2007 through a printed questionnaire administered to a group of Cuban researchers from several national health institutes, who were selected by means of a stratified random sampling (160 researchers from 11 institutions). Summary statistics and bivariate correlations were obtained using the spss statistical program, version 10.0 for Windows.

Results:  The best known initiatives for researchers were those related to biomedical sciences, i.e. PubMed Central, HINARI and BioMed Central. The rate of publication in open access journals and deposit in open access repositories was low. Most of researchers (85%) agree to upload a copy of their papers onto an open access repository if their institution requests so.

Conclusions:  Our findings indicate a need for the promotion of the beneficial aspects of the open access movement, as well as training and encouragement for researchers so that they can take full advantage of the potential of this movement.
Pharmacists’ utilization and interest in usage of personal digital assistants in their professional responsibilities
Authors: Dasgupta Anandaroop , Sansgiry Sujit S. , Sherer Jeff T. , Wallace David , Sikri Samir
Published: October 2009

Background and objectives:  Pharmacists use PDAs for performing various activities related to their profession. The objective of this study was to examine pharmacists’ utilization pattern and interest in usage of personal digital assistants (PDAs) in various facets of health care.

Methods:  A cross‐sectional survey was conducted by distributing a pre‐validated 23‐item instrument to a convenience sample of pharmacists (n = 295) in the Houston area. Usage frequency (0 = never to 5 = frequently) and interest in future use (1 = extremely disinterested to 5 = extremely interested) of PDAs for various activities were evaluated and compared across pharmacy practice settings.

Results:  Most pharmacists reported maximum use of PDAs, as personal organizers (3.7 ± 1.8), in obtaining drug information (2.9 ± 1.8) and as medical calculators (2.6 ± 1.9). Similar results were obtained while evaluating interest of pharmacists who did not have PDAs and have never used PDAs for these three activities. Hospital pharmacists owned and used PDAs significantly (P < 0.05) more often than community pharmacists.

Conclusions:  Pharmacists used PDAs for basic functions in their profession role. Application of PDA technology in community pharmacy settings may result in its better adoption in both the settings.
Clinical librarians, a new tribe in the UK: roles and responsibilities
Authors: Harrison Janet , Beraquet Vera
Published: October 2009

Aims:  The aims of this research were to determine the background, education, training experience, roles and responsibilities of practising Clinical Librarians (CL) in the UK. This paper reports the findings of a survey undertaken in 2007 at the third Clinical Librarian conference.

This research builds on research undertaken by Harrison and Sargeant in 2002 and Ward in 2004, and can be considered as part of a longitudinal study of the role of the CL in the UK.

Objectives:  The objectives of the research were to define and gain a broad understanding of the role of the CL in the UK highlighting similarities and differences amongst the professionals and provide evidence for a baseline of skills and activities for the CL role. The type of sampling used was Judgemental.

Results/analysis:  Results/analysis detail the skills and activities undertaken by CLs. Searching for information for Clinicians was the activity most frequently undertaken. Developing good relationships with other healthcare professionals was considered essential. Two‐thirds of the respondents held a postgraduate library qualification.

Conclusions:  Crucially a new model for the UK CL role is derived drawing on the findings of this study and the existing literature.
Literature searching for social science systematic reviews: consideration of a range of search techniques
Authors: Papaioannou Diana , Sutton Anthea , Carroll Christopher , Booth Andrew , Wong Ruth
Published: October 2009

Background:  Literature for a systematic review on the student experience of e‐learning is located across a range of subject areas including health, education, social science, library and information science.

Objectives:  To assess the merits and shortcomings of using different search techniques in retrieval of evidence in the social science literature.

Methods:  A conventional subject search was undertaken as the principal method of identifying the literature for the review. Four supplementary search methods were used including citation searching, reference list checking, contact with experts and pearl growing.

Results:  The conventional subject search identified 30 of 41 included references; retrieved from 10 different databases. References were missed by this method and a further 11 references were identified via citation searching, reference list checking and contact with experts. Pearl growing was suspended as the nominated pearls were dispersed across numerous databases, with no single database indexing more than four pearls.

Conclusions:  Searching within the social sciences literature requires careful consideration. Conventional subject searching identified the majority of references, but additional search techniques were essential and located further high quality references.
N‐acetylcysteine inhibits hyperglycemia‐induced oxidative stress and apoptosis markers in diabetic neuropathy
Authors: Kamboj Sukhdev Singh , Vasishta Rakesh Kumar , Sandhir Rajat
Published: October 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 77–91.

Several studies have indicated the involvement of oxidative stress in the development of diabetic neuropathy. In the present study, we have targeted oxidative stress mediated nerve damage in diabetic neuropathy using N‐acetyl‐l‐cysteine (NAC), a potent antioxidant. After 8 weeks, streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats developed neuropathy which was evident from decreased tail‐flick latency (thermal hyperalgesia). This was accompanied by decreased motor coordination as assessed by performance on rota‐rod treadmill. Na+ K+ ATPase, a biochemical marker of development of diabetic neuropathy, was significantly inhibited in sciatic nerve of diabetic animals. NAC treatment at a daily dose between 1.4 and 1.5 g/kg body weight to diabetic animals for 7 weeks in drinking water ameliorated hyperalgesia, improved motor coordination and reversed reduction in Na+ K+ ATPase activity. There was an increase in lipid peroxidation in sciatic nerve of diabetic animals along with decrease in phospholipid levels, while NAC treatment attenuated lipid peroxidation and restored phospholipids to control levels. This was associated with decrease in glutathione and protein thiols. The activities of antioxidant enzymes; superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, glutathione peroxidase and glutathione‐S‐transferase were reduced in sciatic nerve of diabetic animals. Cytochrome c release and active caspase 3 were markedly increased in nerve from diabetic animals suggesting activation of apoptotic pathway. NAC treatment significantly ameliorated decrease in antioxidant defense and prevented cytochrome c release and caspase 3 activation. Electron microscopy revealed demyelination, Wallerian degeneration and onion‐bulb formation in sciatic nerve of diabetic rats. NAC on the other hand was able to reverse structural deficits observed in sciatic nerve of diabetic rats. Our results clearly demonstrate protective effect of NAC is mediated through attenuation of oxidative stress and apoptosis, and suggest therapeutic potential of NAC in attenuation of diabetic neuropathy.
CaMKII associates with CaV1.2 L‐type calcium channels via selected β subunits to enhance regulatory phosphorylation
Authors: Abiria Sunday A. , Colbran Roger J.
Published: October 2009

J. Neurochem. (2010) 112, 150–161.

Calcium/calmodulin‐dependent kinase II (CaMKII) facilitates L‐type calcium channel (LTCC) activity physiologically, but may exacerbate LTCC‐dependent pathophysiology. We previously showed that CaMKII forms stable complexes with voltage‐gated calcium channel (VGCC) β1b or β2a subunits, but not with the β3 or β4 subunits (Grueter et al. 2008). CaMKII‐dependent facilitation of CaV1.2 LTCCs requires Thr498 phosphorylation in the β2a subunit (Grueter et al. 2006), but the relationship of this modulation to CaMKII interactions with LTCC subunits is unknown. Here we show that CaMKII co‐immunoprecipitates with forebrain LTCCs that contain CaV1.2α1 and β1 or β2 subunits, but is not detected in LTCC complexes containing β4 subunits. CaMKIIα can be specifically tethered to the I/II linker of CaV1.2 α1 subunits in vitro by the β1b or β2a subunits. Efficient targeting of CaMKIIα to the full‐length CaV1.2α1 subunit in transfected HEK293 cells requires CaMKII binding to the β2a subunit. Moreover, disruption of CaMKII binding substantially reduced phosphorylation of β2a at Thr498 within the LTCC complex, without altering overall phosphorylation of CaV1.2α1 and β subunits. These findings demonstrate a biochemical mechanism underlying LTCC facilitation by CaMKII.