bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Metabolic Gene Variants and Risk of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma
Authors: De Roos Anneclaire J. , Gold Laura S. , Wang Sophia , Hartge Patricia , Cerhan James R. , Cozen Wendy , Yeager Meredith , Chanock Stephen , Rothman Nathaniel , Severson Richard K.
Published: September 2006

Genes involved in metabolism of environmental chemical exposures exhibit sequence variability that may mediate the risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. We evaluated associations between non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and 15 variants in AHR, CYP1A1, CYP1A2, CYP1B1, CYP2C9, CYP2E1, GSTP1, GSTM3, EPHX1, NQO1, and PON1. Cases were identified from four Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results registries in the United States, and population-based controls were identified through random-digit dialing and Medicare eligibility files. Metabolic gene variants were characterized for the 1,172 (89% of total) cases and 982 (93%) controls who provided biological samples for genotyping. Subjects who were heterozygous or homozygous for the cytochrome P450 gene variant CYP1B1 V432L G allele were at slightly greater risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma [odds ratio (OR), 1.27; 95% confidence interval (95% CI), 0.97-1.65]; these results were consistent across B-cell lymphoma subtypes and among both non-Hispanic White and Black subjects, although not statistically significant. The CYP2E1 −1054T allele was associated with decreased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (CT and TT genotypes combined OR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.37-0.93), and this pattern was observed among all histologic subtypes. The numbers of cases of particular subtypes were rather small for stable estimates, but we noted that the PON1 L55M AA allele, associated with slightly increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma (variant homozygotes OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 0.96-1.95), was most strongly associated with follicular non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and T-cell lymphoma, with ORs for variant homozygotes of 2.12 and 2.93, respectively. There was no overall association with non-Hodgkin's lymphoma for the other gene variants we examined. The modest effects we observed may reflect the context of exposures within the general population represented in our study. (Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2006;15(9):1647–53)
Chronic hypoxia promotes hypoxia-inducible factor-1α–dependent resistance to etoposide and vincristine in neuroblastoma cells
Authors: Hussein Deema , Estlin Edward J. , Dive Caroline , Makin Guy W.J.
Published: September 2006

Hypoxia is widespread in solid tumors as a consequence of poorly structured tumor-derived neovasculature. Direct measurement of low oxygen levels in a range of adult tumor types has correlated tumor hypoxia with advanced stage, poor response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and poor prognosis. Little is known about the importance of hypoxia in pediatric tumors; therefore, we evaluated the effects of hypoxia on the response of the neuroblastoma cell lines SH-EP1 and SH-SY5Y to the clinically relevant drugs, vincristine, etoposide, and cisplatin. Short periods of hypoxia (1% O2) of up to 16 hours had no effect on drug-induced apoptosis or clonogenic survival. Prolonged hypoxia of 1 to 7 days leads to reduction in vincristine- and etoposide-induced apoptosis in SH-SY5Y and SH-EP1 cells, and this was reflected in increased clonogenic survival under these conditions. Neither short-term nor prolonged hypoxia had any effect on the clonogenic response to cisplatin in SH-SY5Y cells. Hypoxia-inducible factor-1 (HIF-1) α was stabilized in these cell lines within 2 hours of hypoxia but was no longer detectable beyond 48 hours of hypoxia. Up-regulation of carbonic anhydrase IX showed HIF-1α to be transcriptionally active. Down-regulation of HIF-1α by short hairpin RNA interference and the small-molecule 3-(5′-hydroxymethyl-2′-furyl)-1-benzylindazole reduced hypoxia-induced drug resistance. These results suggest that prolonged hypoxia leads to resistance to clinically relevant drugs in neuroblastoma and that therapies aimed at inhibiting HIF-1α function may be useful in overcoming drug resistance in this tumor. [Mol Cancer Ther 2006;5(9):2241–50]
Large Increases in Hypertension Diagnosis and Treatment in Canada After a Healthcare Professional Education Program
Authors: Onysko Jay , Maxwell Colleen , Eliasziw Michael , Zhang Jenny X. , Johansen Helen , Campbell Norm R.C.
Published: September 2006

This study was conducted to compare the self-reported prevalence and treatment of hypertension in adult Canadians before and subsequent to the implementation of the Canadian Hypertension Education Program in 1999. Data were obtained from 5 cycles of the Canadian Health Surveys between 1994 and 2003 on respondents aged ≥20 years. Piecewise linear regression was used to calculate the average annual increase in rates, before and after 1999. Between 1994 and 2003, the percentage of adult Canadians aware of being diagnosed with hypertension increased by 51% (from 12.37% to 18.74%;
P
<0.001), and the percentage prescribed antihypertensive drugs increased by 66% (from 9.57% to 15.86%;
P
<0.001). After 1999, there was approximately a doubling of the annual rate of increase in the diagnosis of hypertension (from 0.52% of the population per year before 1999 to 1.03% per year after 1999;
P
<0.001) and the percentage prescribed antihypertensive drugs (from 0.54% of the population per year before 1999 versus 0.98% per year after 1999;
P
<0.001). The proportion of those aware of the diagnosis of hypertension but not being treated with drugs was reduced by half between 1994 and 2003 (from 31.47% untreated to 15.34% untreated;
P
<0.001). There was a greater increase in awareness of hypertension and use of antihypertensive drugs among men compared with women after 1999. The large increase in the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension in Canada between 1994 and 2003 is consistent with an overall beneficial effect of the Canadian Hypertension Education Program, including a reduced gender gap in hypertension care.
Blood Lead Below 0.48 μmol/L (10 μg/dL) and Mortality Among US Adults
Authors: Menke Andy , Muntner Paul , Batuman Vecihi , Silbergeld Ellen K. , Guallar Eliseo
Published: September 2006

Background—

Blood lead levels above 0.48 μmol/L (10 μg/dL) in adults have been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular, cancer, and all-cause mortality. The objective of the present study was to determine the association between blood lead levels below 0.48 μmol/L and mortality in the general US population.

Methods and Results—

Blood lead levels were measured in a nationally representative sample of 13 946 adult participants of the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey recruited in 1988 to 1994 and followed up for up to 12 years for all-cause and cause-specific mortality. The geometric mean blood lead level in study participants was 0.12 μmol/L (2.58 μg/dL). After multivariate adjustment, the hazard ratios (95% CI) for comparisons of participants in the highest tertile of blood lead (≥0.17 μmol/L [≥3.62 μg/dL]) with those in the lowest tertile (<0.09 μmol/L [<1.94 μg/dL]) were 1.25 (1.04 to 1.51;
P
trend
across tertiles=0.002) for all-cause mortality and 1.55 (1.08 to 2.24;
P
trend
across tertiles=0.003) for cardiovascular mortality. Blood lead level was significantly associated with both myocardial infarction and stroke mortality, and the association was evident at levels >0.10 μmol/L (≥2 μg/dL). There was no association between blood lead and cancer mortality in this range of exposure.

Conclusions—

The association between blood lead levels and increased all-cause and cardiovascular mortality was observed at substantially lower blood lead levels than previously reported. Despite the marked decrease in blood lead levels over the past 3 decades, environmental lead exposures remain a significant determinant of cardiovascular mortality in the general population, constituting a major public health problem.
Novel insights in the regulation of CCL18 secretion by monocytes and dendritic cells via cytokines, Toll-like receptors and rheumatoid synovial fluid
Authors: van Lieshout Antoine WT , van der Voort Robbert , le Blanc Linda MP , Roelofs Mieke F , Schreurs B Willem , van Riel Piet LCM , Adema Gosse J , Radstake Timothy RDJ
Published: September 2006

Background

The T cell attracting chemokine CCL18 is produced by antigen presenting cells and a role for CCL18 has been suggested in the pathogenesis of a variety of diseases. Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is one of these conditions, in which abundant CCL18 production is present. Although Th2 cytokines and IL-10 are known to have an effect on CCL18 production, there are several gaps in our knowledge regarding the exact regulation of CCL18 secretion, both in general and in RA. In this study we provide new insights in the regulation of CCL18 secretion by monocytes and dendritic cells.

Results

In contrast to a large panel of pro-inflammatory stimuli (IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-10, IL-13, IL-15, IL-17, IL-18, IFN-γ), T cell mimicking molecules (RANKL, CD40L) or TLR driven maturation, the anti-inflammatory IL-10 strongly stimulated DC to secrete CCL18. On freshly isolated monocytes, CCL18 secretion was induced by IL-4 and IL-13, in strong synergy with IL-10. This synergistic effect could already be observed after only 24 hours, indicating that not only macrophages and dendritic cells, but also monocytes secrete CCL18 under these stimulatory conditions. A high CCL18 expression was detected in RA synovial tissue and incubation of monocytes with synovial fluid from RA patients clearly enhanced the effects of IL-4, IL-13 and IL-10. Surprisingly, the effect of synovial fluid was not driven by IL-10 of IL-13, suggesting the presence of another CCL18 inducing factor in synovial fluid.

Conclusion

In summary, IL-10 synergistically induces CCL18 secretion in combination with IL-4 of IL-13 on monocytes and monocyte derived cells. The effects of IL-14, IL-13 and IL-10 are strongly enhanced by synovial fluid. This synergy may contribute to the high CCL18 expression in RA.
Conducting research in individual patients: lessons learnt from two series of N-of-1 trials
Authors: Wegman Anke CM , van der Windt Daniëlle AWM , Stalman Wim AB , de Vries Theo PGM
Published: September 2006

Background

Double-blind randomised N-of-1 trials (N-of-1 trials) may help with decisions concerning treatment when there is doubt regarding the effectiveness and suitability of medication for individual patients. The patient is his or her own control, and receives the experimental and the control treatment during several periods of time in random order. Reports of N-of-1 trials are still relatively scarce, and the research methodology is not as firmly established as that of RCTs. Recently, we have conducted two series of N-of-1 trials in general practice. Before, during, and after data-collection, difficulties regarding outcome assessment, analysis of the results, the withdrawal of patients, and the follow-up had to be dealt with. These difficulties are described and our solutions are discussed.

Discussion

To prevent or anticipate difficulties in N-of-1 trials, we argue that that it is important to individualise the outcome measures, and to carefully consider the objective, type of randomisation and the analysis. It is recommended to use the same dosages and dosage forms that the patient used before the trial, to start the trial with a run-in period, to formulate both general and individualised decision rules regarding the efficacy of treatment, to adjust treatment policies immediately after the trial, and to provide adequate instructions and support if treatment is adjusted.

Because of the specific characteristics of N-of-1 trials it is difficult to formulate general 'how to do it' guidelines for designing N-of-1 trials. However, when the design of each N-of-1 trial is tailored to the specific characteristics of each individual patient and the underlying medical problem, most difficulties in N-of-1 trials can be prevented or overcome. In this way, N-of-1 trials may be of help when deciding on drug treatment for individual patients.
Measles transmission following the tsunami in a population with a high one-dose vaccination coverage, Tamil Nadu, India 2004–2005
Authors: Mohan Arumugam , Murhekar Manoj V , Wairgkar Niteen S , Hutin Yvan J , Gupte Mohan D
Published: September 2006

Background

On 26 December 2004, a tsunami struck the coast of the state of Tamil Nadu, India, where one-dose measles coverage exceeded 95%. On 29 December, supplemental measles immunization activities targeted children 6 to 60 months of age in affected villages. On 30 December, Cuddalore, a tsunami-affected district in Tamil Nadu reported a cluster of measles cases. We investigated this cluster to estimate the magnitude of the problem and to propose recommendations for control.

Methods

We received notification of WHO-defined measles cases through stimulated passive surveillance. We collected information regarding date of onset, age, sex, vaccination status and residence. We collected samples for IgM antibodies and genotype studies. We modeled the accumulation of susceptible individuals over the time on the basis of vaccination coverage, vaccine efficacy and birth rate.

Results

We identified 101 measles cases and detected IgM antibodies against measles virus in eight of 11 sera. Cases were reported from tsunami-affected (n = 71) and unaffected villages (n = 30) with attack rates of 1.3 and 1.7 per 1000, respectively. 42% of cases in tsunami-affected villages had an onset date within 14 days of the tsunami. The median ages of case-patients in tsunami-affected and un-affected areas were 54 months and 60 months respectively (p = 0.471). 36% of cases from tsunami-affected areas were above 60 months of age. Phylogenetic analyses indicated that the sequences of virus belonged to genotype D8 that circulated in Tamil Nadu.

Conclusion

Measles virus circulated in Cuddalore district following the tsunami, although there was no association between the two events. Transmission despite high one-dose vaccination coverage pointed to the limitations of this vaccination strategy. A second opportunity for measles immunization may help reducing measles mortality and morbidity in such areas. Children from 6 month to 14 years of age must be targeted for supplemental immunization during complex emergencies.
Port-site tumour recurrence of oral squamous carcinoma following percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy: a lesson to be aware of
Authors: Daniels Ian R
Published: September 2006

Background

Patients with aero-digestive malignancy will often require a feeding gastrostomy during their treatment to maintain their nutritional status. These are usually placed percutaneously using an endoscopic technique.

Case presentation

A fifty-six year old male underwent placement of a percutaneous gastrostomy (PEG) prior to commencement of his treatment for an oral squamous cell carcinoma. The treatment for this was locally curative. However, he developed a metastasis at the site of his PEG tube. This was excised en-bloc with the anterior gastric and abdominal walls.

Conclusion

Tumour implantation into wounds has been previously reported. In this case the direct trauma of passing the PEG tube through the oropharynx led to implantation of cells in the anterior abdominal wall. In these cases laparoscopic placement may be more beneficial to avoid this problem.
Long-term outcome and quality of life of patients treated in surgical intensive care: a comparison between sepsis and trauma
Authors: Korošec Jagodič Helena , Jagodič Klemen , Podbregar Matej
Published: September 2006

Introduction

Our aim was to determine long-term survival and quality of life of patients admitted to a surgical intensive care unit (ICU) because of sepsis or trauma.

Methods

This was an observational study conducted in an 11-bed, closed surgical ICU at a 860-bed teaching general hospital over a 1-year period (January 2003 to December 2003). Patients were divided into two groups according to admission diagnoses: group 1 included patients with sepsis; and group 2 included patients with trauma (polytrauma, multiple trauma, head injury, or spinal injury). Quality of life was assessed after 2 years following ICU admission using the EuroQol 5D questionnaire.

Results

A total of 164 patients (98 trauma patients and 66 patients with sepsis) were included in the study. Trauma patients were younger than patients with sepsis (53 ± 21 years versus 64 ± 13 years; P ≤ 0.001). There was no significant difference between groups in Acute Physiology and Chronic Health Evaluation II score or length of stay in the surgical SICU. Trauma patients stayed longer on the general ward (35 ± 44 days versus 17 ± 24 days; P < 001). Surgical ICU survival, in-hospital survival, and post-hospital and cumulative 2-year survival were lower in the sepsis group than in the trauma group (surgical ICU survival: 60% versus 74%; in-hospital survival: 42% versus 62%; post-hospital survival: 78% versus 92%; cumulative 2-year survival: 33% versus 57%; P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in quality of life in all five dimensions of the EuroQol 5D between groups: 60% of patients had signs of depression, almost 60% had problems in usual activities and 56% had pain.

Conclusion

Patients with sepsis treated in a surgical ICU have higher short-term and long-term mortality than do trauma patients. However, quality of life is reduced to the same level in both groups.
Accuracy and feasibility of point-of-care and continuous blood glucose analysis in critically ill ICU patients
Authors: Corstjens Anouk M , Ligtenberg Jack JM , van der Horst Iwan CC , Spanjersberg Rob , Lind Joline SW , Tulleken Jaap E , Meertens John HJM , Zijlstra Jan G
Published: September 2006

Introduction

To obtain strict glucose regulation, an accurate and feasible bedside glucometry method is essential. We evaluated three different types of point-of-care glucometry in seriously ill intensive care unit (ICU) patients. The study was performed as a single-centre, prospective, observational study in a 12-bed medical ICU of a university hospital.

Methods

Patients with an expected ICU stay of more than 48 hours were included. Because the reference laboratory delivers glucose values after approximately 30 to 60 minutes, which is too slow to use in a glucose regulation protocol and for calibration of the subcutaneous continuous glucose monitoring system (CGMS) (CGMS System Gold), we first validated the ICU-based blood gas/glucose analyser ABL715 (part 1 of the study). Subsequently, part 2 was performed: after inserting (and calibrating) the subcutaneous CGMS, heparinised arterial blood samples were drawn from an arterial line every 6 hours and analysed on both the Precision PCx point-of-care meter using test strips and on the blood gas/glucose analyser ABL715. CGMS glucose data were downloaded after 24 to 72 hours. The results of the paired measurements were analysed as a scatter plot by the method of Bland and Altman and were expressed as a correlation coefficient.

Results

Part 1: Four hundred and twenty-four blood samples were drawn from 45 critically ill ICU patients. The ICU-based blood gas/glucose analyser ABL715 provided a good estimate of conventional laboratory glucose assessment: the correlation coefficient was 0.95. In the Clarke error grid, 96.8% of the paired measurements were in the clinically acceptable zones A and B. Part 2: One hundred sixty-five paired samples were drawn from 19 ICU patients. The Precision PCx point-of-care meter showed a correlation coefficient of 0.89. Ninety-eight point seven percent of measurements were within zones A and B. The correlation coefficient for the subcutaneous CGMS System Gold was 0.89. One hundred percent of measurements were within zones A and B.

Conclusion

The ICU-based blood glucose analyser ABL715 is a rapid and accurate alternative for laboratory glucose determination and can serve as a standard for ICU blood glucose measurements. The Precision PCx is a good alternative, but feasibility may be limited because of the blood sample handling. The subcutaneous CGMS System Gold is promising, but real-time glucose level reporting is necessary before it can be of clinical use in the ICU. When implementing a glucose-insulin algorithm in patient care or research, one should realise that the absolute glucose level may differ systematically among various measuring methods, influencing targeted glucose levels.
What Is the Impact of Shared Decision Making on Treatment and Outcomes for Older Women With Breast Cancer?
Authors: Mandelblatt Jeanne , Kreling Barbara , Figeuriedo Melissa , Feng Shibao
Published: September 2006

Purpose

Shared decision making (SDM) has been recommended as a standard of care, especially when there are treatment alternatives or uncertainty in outcomes. However, we know little about use of SDM in cancer care, and even less is known about SDM in older patients. We describe patient and physician determinants of SDM in older women with breast cancer and evaluate whether SDM is associated with treatment patterns or short-term outcomes of care.

Patients and Methods

Women age 67 or older treated for early stage breast cancer in 29 sites from five geographic regions comprise the study sample (N = 718). Data were obtained from patients by in-person and telephone interviews. Physician data were collected via survey, and medical records were reviewed to ascertain comorbidity and tumor characteristics. Random effects and logistic regression models were used to assess associations between SDM and other factors.

Results

Women who were age 67 to 74 years (v 75 or older) were accompanied to consultation and who sought information reported the highest SDM, after considering covariates. While SDM was not associated with surgical treatment, greater SDM was associated with higher odds of having adjuvant treatment, controlling for clinical factors. Greater SDM was also associated with improved short-term satisfaction.

Conclusion

SDM plays an important role in the process of care for older women with breast cancer. Physicians treating this growing population have a simple, but powerful tool for improving outcomes within their grasp—spending time to engage and involve older women in their breast cancer care.
Sagittal spine movements of small therian mammals during asymmetrical gaits
Authors: Schilling Nadja , Hackert Rémi
Published: September 2006

Mammalian locomotion is characterized by the use of asymmetrical gaits associated with extensive flexions and extensions of the body axis. Although the impact of sagittal spine movements on locomotion is well known, little information is available on the kinematics of spinal motion. Intervertebral joint movements were studied in two metatherian and three eutherian species during the gallop and halfbound using high-speed cineradiography. Fast-Fourier transformation was used to filter out high frequency digitizing errors and keep the lower frequency sinusoid oscillations that characterize the intervertebral angular movements. Independent of their regional classification as thoracic or lumbar vertebrae, 7±1 presacral intervertebral joints were involved in sagittal bending movements. In only one species, no more than five intervertebral joints contributed to the resulting `pelvic movement'. In general, the trunk region involved in sagittal bending during locomotion did not correspond to the traditional subdivisions of the vertebral column (e.g. as thoracic and lumbar or pre- and postdiaphragmatic region). Therefore, these classifications do not predict the regions involved in spinal oscillations during locomotion. Independent of the gait, maximum flexion of the spine was observed in the interval between the last third of the swing phase and touch-down. This results in a retraction of the pelvis and hindlimbs before touch-down and, we hypothesize, enhances the stability of the system. Maximum extension occurred during the first third of the swing phase (i.e. after lift-off) in all species. In general, the observed timing of dorsoventral oscillations of the spine are in accordance with that observed in other mammals and with activity data of respiratory and epaxial back muscles. Although no strict craniocaudal pattern was observable, the more cranial intervertebral joints tend to flex and extend earlier than the more caudal ones. This is in accordance with the organization and the activation of the paravertebral musculature in mammals. The amplitude of intervertebral joint movements increased caudally, reaching its highest values in the presacral joint. The more intense sagittal bending movements in the caudal intervertebral joints are reflected by the muscle fiber type composition of the back muscles involved. Despite the highly similar amplitude of `pelvic motion', touch-down and lift-off positions of the pelvis were clearly different between the species with a long, external tail and those with no external tail.
The spectral sensitivity of the lens eyes of a box jellyfish,Tripedalia cystophora(Conant)
Authors: Coates Melissa M. , Garm Anders , Theobald Jamie C. , Thompson Stuart H. , Nilsson Dan-Eric
Published: September 2006

Box jellyfish, or cubomedusae (class Cubozoa), are unique among the Cnidaria in possessing lens eyes similar in morphology to those of vertebrates and cephalopods. Although these eyes were described over 100 years ago, there has been no work done on their electrophysiological responses to light. We used an electroretinogram (ERG) technique to measure spectral sensitivity of the lens eyes of the Caribbean species Tripedalia cystophora. The cubomedusae have two kinds of lens eyes, the lower and upper lens eyes. We found that both lens eye types have similar spectral sensitivities, which likely result from the presence of a single receptor type containing a single opsin. The peak sensitivity is to blue-green light. Visual pigment template fits indicate a vitamin A-1 based opsin with peak sensitivity near 500 nm for both eye types.
Proprioceptive encoding of head position in the black soldier fly,Hermetia illucens(L.) (Stratiomyidae)
Authors: Paulk Angelique , Gilbert Cole
Published: September 2006

Because the eyes of insects cannot be moved independently of the head,information about head posture is essential for stabilizing the visual world or providing information about the direction of gaze. We examined the external anatomy and physiological capabilities of a head posture proprioceptor, the prosternal organ (PO), located at the base of the neck in the black soldier fly, Hermetia illucens (L.) (Family: Stratiomyidae). The PO is sexually isomorphic and is composed of two fused plates of about 130 mechanosensory hairs set in asymmetrical sockets whose orientation varies across the organ. A multi-joint mechanical coupling between the head, neck membrane, and contact sclerites deflects the hairs more or less to increase or decrease their level of excitation. The PO sensory afferents project to the central nervous system (CNS) via a pair of bilateral prosternal nerves (PN) to the fused thoracic ganglia. Simultaneous recording of spiking activity in the PN and videotaping of wind-induced and voluntary head movements around all three axes of head rotation reveal that a few PN afferents are active at rest, but activity increases tonically in response to head deflections. Activity is significantly modulated by change in head angles around the pitch (±40°), yaw (±30°) and roll (more than±90°) axes, although the dynamic range of spiking activity differs for each axis of rotation. Prosternal nerve afferents are bilaterally excited(inhibited) by pitch down (up); excited (inhibited) by head yaw toward the ipsilateral (contralateral) side; excited by roll down toward the ipsilateral side, but little inhibited by roll toward the opposite side. Although bilateral comparison of activity in PN afferents reliably encodes head posture around a given rotational axis, from the point of view of the CNS, the problem of encoding head posture is ill-posed with three axes of rotation and only two streams of afferent information. Furthermore, when the head is rotated around more than one axis simultaneously, mechanical interactions in the neck modify the responses to postural changes around the three rotational axes, which adds further ambiguity to reliable encoding of head posture. The properties of the PO in this relatively basal fly species are compared to those of higher flies and possible mechanisms of disambiguation are discussed.
Cardiorespiratory physiology and swimming energetics of a high-energy-demand teleost, the yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi)
Authors: Clark T. D. , Seymour R. S.
Published: September 2006

This study utilizes a swimming respirometer to investigate the effects of exercise and temperature on cardiorespiratory function of an active teleost,the yellowtail kingfish (Seriola lalandi). The standard aerobic metabolic rate (SMR) of S. lalandi (mean body mass 2.1 kg) ranges from 1.55 mg min-1 kg-1 at 20°C to 3.31 mg min-1 kg-1 at 25°C. This 2.1-fold increase in SMR with temperature is associated with a 1.5-fold increase in heart rate from 77 to 117 beats min-1, while cardiac stroke volume remains constant at 0.38 ml beat-1 kg-1 and the difference in oxygen content between arterial and mixed venous blood[(CaO2-Cv̄O2)]increases marginally from 0.06 to 0.08 mg ml-1. During maximal aerobic exercise (2.3 BL s-1) at both temperatures,however, increases in cardiac output are limited to about 1.3-fold, and increases in oxygen consumption rates (up to 10.93 mg min-1kg-1 at 20°C and 13.32 mg min-1 kg-1 at 25°C) are mediated primarily through augmentation of(CaO2-Cv̄O2)to 0.29 mg ml-1 at 20°C and 0.25 mg ml-1 at 25°C. It seems, therefore, that the heart of S. lalandi routinely works close to its maximum capacity at a given temperature, and changes in aerobic metabolism due to exercise are greatly reliant on high blood oxygen-carrying capacity and(CaO2-Cv̄O2). Gross aerobic cost of transport (GCOT) is 0.06 mg kg-1BL-1 at 20°C and 0.09 mg kg-1BL-1 at 25°C at the optimal swimming velocities(U) of 1.2 BL s-1opt and 1.7 BL s-1, respectively. These values are comparable with those reported for salmon and tuna, implying that the interspecific diversity in locomotor mode (e.g. subcarangiform, carangiform and thunniform) is not concomitant with similar diversity in swimming efficiency. A low GCOT is maintained as swimming velocity increases above Uopt,which may partly result from energy savings associated with the progressive transition from opercular ventilation to ram ventilation.
Feeding and digestion in low salinity in an osmoconforming crab, Cancer gracilis I. Cardiovascular and respiratory responses
Authors: McGaw Iain J.
Published: September 2006

The osmoregulatory physiology of decapod crustaceans has received extensive attention. Within this field there is a growing body of literature on cardiovascular and respiratory responses to low salinity. Most species exhibit a tachycardia coupled with an increase in ventilation rate and oxygen uptake. However, these previous experiments were conducted on animals that were starved prior to experimentation in order to avoid increases in metabolism associated with digestive processes. Because organisms are not necessarily starved prior to experiencing environmental perturbations, results from previous experiments may not represent natural physiological responses. The present study investigated how an osmoconforming decapod, the graceful crab Cancer gracilis, balanced the demands of physiological systems(prioritization or additivity of events) during feeding and digestion in a low salinity environment. Cancer gracilis exhibited a typical increase in oxygen uptake and less pronounced increases in cardiovascular variables (heart rate, stroke volume, cardiac output) during feeding in 100% seawater. In 3-day starved crabs, exposure to 65% seawater resulted in a pronounced bradycardia,with a concomitant decrease in cardiac output and haemolymph flow rates and a temporary decrease in oxygen uptake. When crabs were exposed to low salinity,3 h and 24 h after food ingestion, heart rate increased slightly and cardiac output and ventilation rates remained stable. Although oxygen uptake decreased transiently, feeding levels were quickly regained. During a recovery phase in 100%SW there was an overshoot in parameters, suggesting repayment of an oxygen debt. Thus, it appears that feeding and digestion are prioritized in this species, allowing it to survive acute exposure to hyposaline water. Furthermore, the results show that the nutritional state of an animal is important in modulating its physiological responses to environmental perturbations. This underscores the importance of studying physiological responses at the whole organism level under conditions closely approximating those of the natural environment.
Growth or differentiation? Adaptive regeneration in the brittlestarAmphiura filiformis
Authors: Dupont Samuel , Thorndyke Michael C.
Published: September 2006

Amphiura filiformis is a burrowing brittlestar, which extends arms in the water column when suspension feeding. In previous studies, unexpectedly high variability was observed in regeneration rate between individuals even when experiments were performed under identical conditions. The aims of this work were to understand this variability and interpret the observed variability in terms of adaptation to sublethal predation. Our experiments on the dynamics of arm regeneration in A. filiformis revealed that the developmental program during regeneration is well adapted to its burrowing life style. We demonstrate that there is a trade-off between regeneration in length and functional recovery for feeding (differentiation index). The amount of tissue lost (length lost), which represents the quantity of tissue needed to completely regenerate an intact arm with no previous history of regeneration, determines whether the arm will invest more energy in growth and/or in differentiation, which must be a reflection of the ability to differentially regulate developmental programs during regeneration. We show that combining regeneration rate with differentiation index provides an ideal tool for the definition of a standard temporal framework for both field and laboratory studies of regeneration.
Pectoral fin coordination and gait transitions in steadily swimming juvenile reef fishes
Authors: Hale Melina E. , Day Ryan D. , Thorsen Dean H. , Westneat Mark W.
Published: September 2006

A common feature of animal locomotion is its organization into gaits with distinct patterns of movement and propulsor use for specific speeds. In terrestrial vertebrates, limb gaits have been extensively studied in diverse taxa and gait transitions have been shown to provide efficient locomotion across a wide range of speeds. In contrast, examination of gaits in fishes has focused on axial gaits and the transition between synchronous paired fin locomotion and axial propulsion. Because many fishes use their pectoral fins as their primary propulsors, we aimed to examine more broadly the use of pectoral fin gaits in locomotion. We used juvenile reef fishes in these experiments because their swimming could be recorded readily across a wide range of Reynolds numbers, which we thought would promote gait diversity. Based on previous work in larval fishes, we hypothesized that juveniles have alternating pectoral fin movements rather than the synchronous, or in-phase,coordination pattern of adults. In flow tank swim studies, we found that juvenile sapphire damselfish Pomacentrus pavo used two fin gaits during steady swimming. Below approximately 3 BL s-1, P. pavo primarily swam with alternating fin strokes 180° out of phase with one another. At speeds in the range of 3-4 BLs-1, they performed a gait transition to synchronous fin coordination. Between approximately 4 and 8 BL s-1, P. pavo primarily beat their fins synchronously. At around 8 BLs-1 there was another gait transition to body-caudal fin swimming,in which the pectoral fins were tucked against the body. We suggest that the transition from alternating to synchronous fin coordination occurs due to mechanical limits of gait performance rather than to energy efficiency,stability or transitions in hydrodynamic regime. To determine whether this gait transition was species-specific, we surveyed pectoral fin locomotion in juveniles from 11 species in three reef fish families (Pomacentridae, Labridae and Scaridae). We found that this gait transition occurred in every species examined, suggesting that it may be a common behavior of juvenile reef fishes. Greater inclusion of early life history stages in the study of fin-based locomotion should significantly enhance and inform the growing body of work on these behaviors.
Lifetime performance in foraging honeybees: behaviour and physiology
Authors: Schippers M.-P. , Dukas R. , Smith R. W. , Wang J. , Smolen K. , McClelland G. B.
Published: September 2006

Honeybees, Apis mellifera, gradually increase their rate of forage uptake as they gain foraging experience. This increase in foraging performance has been proposed to occur as a result of learning; however, factors affecting flight ability such as changes in physiological components of flight metabolism could also contribute to this pattern.

Thus, the purpose of this study was to assess the contribution of physiological changes to the increase in honeybee foraging performance. We investigated aspects of honeybee flight muscle biochemistry throughout the adult life, from non-foraging hive bees, through young and mature foragers, to old foragers near the end of their lifespan. Two-dimensional gel proteomic analysis on honeybee thorax muscle revealed an increase in several proteins from hive bees to mature foragers including troponin T 10a, aldolase and superoxide dismutase. By contrast, the activities (Vmax)of enzymes involved in aerobic performance, phosphofructokinase, hexokinase,pyruvate kinase and cytochrome c oxidase, did not increase in the flight muscles of hive bees, young foragers, mature foragers and old foragers. However, citrate synthase activity was found to increase with foraging experience. Hence, our results suggest plasticity in both structural and metabolic components of flight muscles with foraging experience.
Effect of Entrained Air on Recycled Concrete Prasoperties
Authors: Zega CJ , Taus VL , Di Maio AA
Published: September 2006

Air entrainment is a good practice to improve the durability of concrete exposed to cycles of freezing and thawing. For a given admixture dosage, the air content will depend on mix proportions and the characteristics of the materials employed. The use of crushed waste concretes (recycled coarse aggregates), which have different characteristics and properties compared to natural coarse aggregates, could modify the air content and behavior of recycled concretes. In this paper, some fresh and hardened state properties of entrained air recycled concretes were evaluated and compared with those of entrained air conventional concrete. Recycled concretes were elaborated with 50, 75, and 100% replacement by volume of natural coarse aggregates by crushed waste concretes. The results indicate that the recycled concretes show a satisfactory mechanical and durable behavior, similar to or better than that of conventional one.
Sensitivity and Specificity of Various Tests for the Diagnosis ofHelicobacter pyloriin Egyptian Children
Authors: Frenck Robert W. , Fathy Hanan Mohamed , Sherif May , Mohran Zaynab , El Mohammedy Hanan , Francis Wagdy , Rockabrand David , Mounir Bahaa Ihab , Rozmajzl Patrick , Frierson Henry F.
Published: September 2006

OBJECTIVES. Many noninvasive methods (using breath, blood, and stool samples) are available to diagnose Helicobacter pylori. However, because the noninvasive tests are proxy measures of the infection, they need validation before use. Factors that may affect test validity include patient age, gender, and geographic location. Because no data were available on the validation of noninvasive tests for the diagnosis of H pylori among children in the Middle East, this study was performed.

METHODS. Children between 2 and 17 years of age evaluated at the Cairo University School of Medicine pediatric gastroenterology clinic who were already scheduled for upper endoscopy were eligible for enrollment in the study. At the time of endoscopy, 3 biopsies were collected and used for rapid urease, histology, and culture, respectively. All children also donated a sample of stool and blood and had a urea breath test performed. Stool and serum samples were tested for the presence of H pylori by using commercially available enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay–based technology. The sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative predictive values were calculated for each noninvasive test used in the study. Receiver operating curves also were charted to determine optimal cut points for the various tests when used in the current study cohort.

RESULTS. One hundred eight children were enrolled in the study, with 52 children being under 6 years of age. The urea breath test and HpStar (DakoCytomation, Norden, Denmark) stool enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kit had the highest sensitivity and specificity (sensitivity and specificity: 98 and 89 [urea breath test] and 94 and 81 [HpStar], respectively), whereas the serologic kit had an unacceptably low sensitivity (50%). The sensitivity of neither the urea breath test nor the HpStar tests was affected by subject age, but specificity of the HpStar test, although still high, was significantly lower among children under 6 years. Receiver operating curves found optimal cut points of the urea breath test at 6.2 δ over baseline and of the HpStar at 0.25 enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay units.

CONCLUSION. The urea breath test and HpSTAR stool antigen kit are reliable tests for the noninvasive diagnosis of H pylori among children living in the Middle East.
Spontaneous Hemopneumothorax in Children: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Issaivanan Magimairajan , Baranwal Purnima , Abrol Sunil , Bajwa Gurjot , Baldauf Mary , Shukla Mayank
Published: September 2006

Spontaneous hemopneumothorax is rare, occurs in young adolescents, and can be life threatening secondary to massive bleeding. An adolescent with spontaneous hemopneumothorax and shock managed by tube thorascostomy is described here. We compared our case with published data of spontaneous hemopneumothorax in the pediatric age group. Spontaneous hemopneumothorax involves the accumulation of air and blood in the pleural space in the absence of trauma or other obvious causes. Spontaneous hemopneumothorax is usually seen in adolescents, more common in males than females. The common clinical features of spontaneous hemopneumothorax include dyspnoea and chest pain, and 30% present with hypovolemic shock. The bleeding can result from a torn adhesion between the parietal and visceral pleurae, from a rupture of vascularized bullae, or from torn congenital aberrant vessels. Over the last 6 decades, the treatment has progressed from the thoracotomy to minimally invasive techniques such as video assisted thoracoscopic surgery, with great reduction in mortality and recurrence rates. Although a rare entity, diagnosis of spontaneous hemopneumothorax must be considered in young adolescents presenting with spontaneous onset of chest pain and dyspnoea with radiograph findings of hydropneumothorax and/or signs of shock.
Applications of Underbalanced-Drilling Reservoir Characterisation for Water Shutoff in a Fractured Carbonate Reservoir - A Project Overview
Authors: Murphy Darren , Al-Busaidi Rashid , Wind Jan , Davidson Ian , Mykytiw Clayton , Kennedy _ , Arseneault Leo
Published: September 2006

Following successful implementation of underbalanced drilling (UBD) in Petroleum Development Oman (PDO), an evaluation of the value of UBD in a carbonate field was commissioned. The study showed that there was a production upside to developing the reservoir with UBD. A four-well trial campaign was conducted between June and October 2004 to assess the potential.

The trial campaign was implemented following a structured program built from PDO's previous experience. During this campaign, a reservoir-characterization (RC) system allowing identification of multiple high-permeability features was developed. Water-shutoff devices were installed in two wells on the basis of the results of the RC system. Production from the four wells was equivalent to or greater than the field average, and the campaign scope has been increased. The campaign was also a stepping stone toward the goal of integrating UBD, RC, and water-shutoff techniques.
Empowerment: A Patient's Perspective
Authors: Weiss Michael A.
Published: September 2006

In Brief

The most significant innovation in diabetes management during the past 20 years has been the acceptance and application of the empowerment approach to diabetes education and treatment. This method acknowledges the way in which behavioral changes occur by casting patients as the central figures in the design and implementation of their diabetes care plans. The many scientific and technological developments that have been made during this same period have strengthened patients' ability to pursue effective self-management programs under this approach.
Diabetes BASICS: Education, Innovation, Revolution
Authors: Powers Margaret A. , Carstensen Karol , Colón Katherine , Rickheim Patti , Bergenstal Richard M.
Published: September 2006

In Brief

This article describes the Type 2 Diabetes BASICS curriculum, an evidence-based education program that, when used in educator programs, has reduced hemoglobin A1c and body weight in people with type 2 diabetes in both individual and group education. This curriculum has also served as a model for the Insulin BASICS and Gestational Diabetes BASICS programs and has been implemented in various education and research settings,including work sites. These curriculums provide all of the needed materials for an education program, as well as extensive tips and guides to increase individualization of information and activities to engage program participants in transferring knowledge and skills in a variety of situations.
Diabetes Legal Advocacy Comes of Age
Authors: Greene Michael A.
Published: September 2006

This article updates the legal advocacy efforts of the American Diabetes Association since 1999. These efforts include a variety of strategies and tactics to improve the lives of people discriminated against on the basis of their diabetes. The Association's efforts are particularly focused on employment and school issues, but they also include access to medical care for people in correctional institutions and at places of public accommodation. Using an overall strategy of educating, negotiating, litigating, and legislating, the Association has achieved significant results with far-reaching effects. This innovative effort is unique among voluntary health organizations. The Association has institutionalized its legal advocacy efforts with its strategic plan, budget allocations, volunteer networks, and staff support. The legal advocacy efforts of the Association bring significant and meaningful results to people with diabetes.