bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microtiter‐Based Assay for Evaluating the Biological Activity of Ribosome‐Inactivating Proteins
Authors: Hale Martha L.
Published: August 2010

Abstract: A microtiter assay was developed to quickly measure the biological activity of ricin or other ribosome‐inactivating proteins. Nuclease‐treated rabbit reticulocyte lysate containing luciferase mRNA was used to measure toxin activity via inhibition of protein synthesis. The relative biological activity was determined by comparing luminescence levels in treated samples versus those of untreated controls. The amount of luciferase translated, as measured by luminescence, was inversely proportional to the toxin concentration. Linear dose response curves were generated for both class I and class II toxins. When compared to normal serum controls, specific antibody against ricin effectively inhibited ricin activity. The assay is suitable for efficient in vitro screening of therapeutics, as well as for identifying samples containing ribosome‐ inactivating proteins.
Butein, a Plant Polyphenol, Induces Apoptosis Concomitant with Increased Caspase‐3 Activity, Decreased Bcl‐2 Expression and Increased Bax Expression in HL‐60 Cells
Authors: Kim Na‐Young , Pae Hyun‐Ock , Oh Gi‐Su , Kang Tae‐Hyun , Kim Youn‐Chul , Rhew Hyun‐Yul , Chung Hun‐Taeg
Published: August 2010

Abstract: In the present study we have investigated whether butein could induce apoptosis in human leukaemic HL‐60 cells. The treatment of HL‐60 cells with butein induced apoptotic cell death as determined by morphological and biochemical changes. Apoptotic DNA fragments in the butein‐treated HL‐60 cells were increased gradually as determined by flow cytometric analysis. The caspase‐3 activity was increased during butein‐induced apoptosis. However, caspase‐3 inhibitor abrogated the butein‐induced DNA fragmentation. Furthermore, the treatment of HL‐60 cells with butein decreased the expression of Bcl‐2 protein, but increased the expression of Bax protein. These results suggest that butein‐induced apoptosis is mediated through the activation of caspase‐3 and it is associated with changed expression of Bcl‐2 and Bax proteins.
Escitalopram (S‐Enantiomer of Citalopram): Clinical Efficacy and Onset of Action Predicted from a Rat Model
Authors: Montgomery Stuart A. , Loft Henrik , Sánchez Connie , Reines Elin Heldbo , Papp Mariusz
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Escitalopram is the active S‐enantiomer of citalopram. In a chronic mild stress model of depression in rats, treatments with both escitalopram and citalopram were effective; however, a faster time to onset of efficacy compared to vehicle treatment was observed for escitalopram‐treated (5 mg/kg/day) than for citalopram‐treated (10 mg/kg/day) rats at Week 1. To study the predictability of this observation in the clinic, we analysed 4‐week data from an 8‐week, double‐blind, randomised, placebo‐controlled, flexible‐dose study that compared escitalopram and citalopram to placebo in primary care patients with major depressive disorder (baseline Montgomery and Åsberg Depression Rating Scale (MADRS) scores ≥22 and ≤40). Since the flexible dosing started after Week 4, analysis of 4‐week data ensured that the patients received fixed doses of 10 mg/day escitalopram (155 patients), 20 mg/day citalopram (160 patients), or placebo (154 patients). The efficacy analysis showed a significantly superior therapeutic effect for escitalopram versus placebo from Week 1 onwards (observed cases) with an adjusted mean change in MADRS at Week 4 (last observation carried forward) of 2.7 points (P=0.002). By comparison, 20 mg/day citalopram did not demonstrate a statistically significant effect compared to placebo. Escitalopram was well tolerated with an adverse event profile similar to that of citalopram. The preclinical observation that escitalopram possesses a faster time to onset of efficacy than citalopram was also seen in primary care patients with major depressive disorder. Thus, escitalopram is efficacious in depression and the effect occurs earlier than for citalopram.
Ototoxicity in Rats Exposed to Ortho‐, Meta‐ and Para‐Xylene Vapours for 13 Weeks
Authors: Gagnaire François , Marignac Brigitte , Langlais Cristina , Bonnet Pierre
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Male Sprague‐Dawley rats were exposed to ortho‐, meta‐ or para‐xylene by inhalation (450, 900 and 1800 p.p.m., 6 hr/day, 6 days/week for 13 weeks) and sacrificed for morphological investigations 8 weeks after the end of exposure. Brainstem auditory‐evoked responses were used to determine auditory thresholds at different frequencies. Among the three isomers studied, only para‐xylene produced moderate to severe ototoxicity in rats exposed at 900 and 1800 p.p.m. Increased auditory thresholds were observed at 2, 4, 8 and 16 kHz in rats exposed to 1800 p.p.m. para‐xylene. The auditory threshold shifts (35 to 38 dB) did not reverse after 8 weeks of recovery. Moderate and severe losses of outer hair cells of the organ of Corti occurred in animals exposed to 900 and 1800 p.p.m. para‐xylene respectively. Thus, the no observed effect level of para‐xylene was 450 p.p.m. based on the loss of outer hair cells observed by light and electron microscopy.
Removal of Xenobiotic Dichlorostearic Acid from Phospholipids and Neutral Lipids in Cultured Human Cell Lines by ß‐Oxidation and Secretion of Dichloromyristic Acid
Authors: Gustafson‐Svärd Christina , Åkesson‐Nilsson Gunilla , Mattsson Maria , Sundin Peter , Wesén Clas
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Chlorinated fatty acids represent a recently discovered group of potentially hazardous organochlorine pollutants in the environment. The ability of human cells to incorporate and metabolise this type of fatty acids has never been investigated. The aim of the present study was, therefore, to investigate if two human cell lines, INT 407 and SH‐SY5Y, incorporate and metabolise extracellular dichlorostearic acid. Cells were incubated with 9,10‐dichlorostearic acid for 24 hr, and the amounts of chlorinated fatty acids in cells and culture medium analysed every two days for up to 6 or 10 days. Lipids were separated by solid phase extraction, transesterified to fatty acid methyl esters, and analysed by gas chromatography in combination with a halogen specific detector (GC/XSD). Dichlorostearic acid, dichloropalmitic acid and dichloromyristic acid were found in phospholipids and in neutral lipids of the INT 407 cells. Both cell lines secreted considerable amounts of dichloromyristic acid into the culture medium. Cellular or secreted metabolites shorter than dichloromyristic acid were not found. Taken together, the results suggest that human cells may (1) incorporate chlorinated fatty acids into membrane lipids and storage lipids, (2) metabolise cellular dichlorostearic acid to dichloropalmitic acid and dichloromyristic acid by ß‐oxidation; but that further metabolism is hindered, possibly because of the chlorine atoms, and (3) remove formed dichloromyristic acid by secretion. The removal of cellular dichloromyristic acid might represent an important cellular defence mechanism and deserves further investigations.
Apoptotic Effects of Dichloro Stearic and Dichloro Myristic Acid in Human Hepatoma Cells (HepG2)
Authors: Lystad Einar , Høstmark Arne T. , Jebens Einar
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Chlorinated fatty acids represent the major fraction of extractable organically bound chlorine in fish. After dietary intake such fatty acids may accumulate in adipose tissue, and even be transferred from mother to child via breast milk. We have previously reported that 9,10‐dichloro stearic acid and 5,6‐dichloro myristic acid inhibited cell growth. The aim of the present work was to investigate whether the growth inhibitory effect of these modified fatty acids might involve apoptosis. Human hepatoma cells (HepG2) were cultured for 4 days before addition of chlorinated fatty acids, and then cultured for another day before harvested. Morphological analysis was mainly done by light microscopy. In addition, fluorescence microscopy and electrophoretic analysis of DNA were carried out. The effect of 0.3 and 0.6 mmol/l was studied. Both chlorinated fatty acids seemed to cause a concentration‐dependent increase in the relative abundance of pycnotic and broken nuclei, as well as nuclear fragments, with the strongest effect of dichloro stearic acid. Apoptosis by the chlorinated fatty acids was however less than that of docosahexaenoic acid, a known apoptosis effector. In conclusion, chlorinated fatty acids seem to possess the ability to cause apoptosis.
Clonidine Attenuates Naloxone‐Induced Opioid‐Withdrawal Syndrome in Cholestatic Mice*
Authors: Dehpour Ahmad Reza , Samini Morteza , Arad Mohammad Amin , Namiranian Khodadad
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Cholestasis is associated with elevated plasma level of endogenous opioid peptides. Naloxone‐precipitated withdrawal syndrome has been described in a mouse model of acute cholestasis. Thus we aimed at determining whether central noradrenergic hyperactivity is involved in manifestation of naloxone‐precipitated withdrawal syndrome in mice with obstructive cholestasis. Acute cholestasis was induced by bile duct resection in mice and physical dependence was observed by precipitating a withdrawal syndrome with naloxone (2 mg/kg, intraperitoneally) 5 days after induction of cholestasis. Administration of clonidine (0.1 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), an α2‐adrenoceptor agonist, 15 min. before naloxone injection significantly alleviates withdrawal severity in cholestatic mice. However, pretreatment of animals with yohimbine (3 mg/kg, intraperitoneally), an α2‐adrenoceptor antagonist, 15 min. before clonidine blocked this ameliorative effect of clonidine. The results of this study support the evidence for involvement of the α2‐adrenoceptors in the withdrawal syndrome of cholestasis in a mouse model.
Biphasic Effect of Cardiac Glycosides on Action Potential Duration in Isolated Purkinje Fibers
Authors: Xie Jing‐Tian , Dey Lucy , Yuan Chun‐Su
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Despite the historical use of cardiac glycosides, the data describing the electrophysiological characteristics of this class of drug are not fully clear. The present study reported the biphasic effect of cardiac glycosides, digoxin (1.25 μM) and acetylstrophanthidin (0.15 μM), on action potential duration in isolated Purkinje fibers by the conventional glass microelectrode technique. At the cycle lengths of 990, 690 and 490 msec., action potential duration lengthened within 10 min. and shortened after 10 min. of digoxin and acetylstrophanthidin administration. The biphasic effect was observed at a concentration of 4.0 mM [K+]o. However, at a higher [K+]o concentration of 5.4 mM, only the shortening effect on action potential duration was recorded. These results suggest that the biphasic effect of cardiac glycosides on action potential duration is related to the concentration of extracellular potassium and is not related to the stimulating cycle lengths.
Novel Aspects of Dopamine Oxidative Metabolism (Confounding Outcomes Take Place of Certainties
Authors: Gesi Marco , Santinami Anna , Ruffoli Riccardo , Conti Giuseppe , Fornai Francesco
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Understanding dopamine (DA) oxidative metabolism allows to get a deeper insight into neurologic and psychiatric disorders featured by an altered DA neurotransmission as well as developing appropriate therapeutic strategies. Oxidative DA deamination is carried out by two highly conserved isoenzymes: monoamine oxidase (MAO) A and B; these isoenzymes both metabolize DA to dihydroxyphenylacetaldehyde (DOPALD), which, in turn, is converted to dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC). In the past twenty years most studies on MAO activity were performed using brain dialysis in freely moving rats and measuring DA and DOPAC levels after administration of specific MAO inhibitors. This led to concepts on DA metabolism grounded on a single brain area (striatum) investigated, almost exclusively, in a single animal species (rat). These experiments were based on measurement of striatal levels of DOPAC which represents the indirect product of MAO activity. At present, the specific role of each MAO isoform appears to differ significantly depending on varying experimental conditions such as measuring the direct product of DA metabolism. In particular, recent studies allowed the estimate of the first metabolite (DOPALD) formed by MAO, showing that DOPAC levels do not necessarily reflect MAO activity. Again, the relative contribution of the two MAO iso forms in sustaining DA metabolism varies considerably, depending on the animal species and the specific brain area (either striatum or substantia nigra) under investigation. In this article we will briefly review these concepts in light of new evidence derived from innovative approaches: improved in vivo analysis of direct MAO metabolic products; measurement of oxidative metabolism in different parts of the DA nigrostriatal pathway; measurement of MAO activity in various animal species including MAO knock‐out mice.
Spasmolytic Effects of Three Harmala Alkaloids onGuinea‐Pig Isolated Trachea
Authors: Shi Chuen‐Chao , Liao Jyh‐Fei , Chen Chieh‐Fu
Published: August 2010

Abstract: The present study examined and compared the spasmolytic effects of 3 harmala alkaloids, harmine, harman, and harmaline, on carbachol‐, histamine‐, and KCl‐induced contractions of guinea‐pig isolated tracheal preparations. All 3 compounds relaxed the tracheal preparations contracted by these spasmogens with similar or different EC50 values, harmine being the most potent one. The cumulative concentration‐response curves of all 3 compounds for carbachol‐induced contraction were shifted to the right by propranolol (1 μM) pretreatment, indicating the involvement of the activation on the β‐adrenoceptors. All 3 compounds shifted the concentration‐response curves of carbachol to the right in a parallel manner with the pA2 values comparable with their relaxation EC50 values, indicating a competitive antagonism at the muscarinic receptors. Receptor binding assays indicated that all 3 compounds interacted with lung muscarinic receptors (Ki=11–13 μM), histamine H1 receptors (Ki=27–107 μM), and β2‐adrenoceptors (Ki=20–51 μM). Therefore, in addition to their actions on receptor‐linked and voltage‐dependent Ca2+ channels as reported in other types of smooth muscle, the present study suggests that the actions on muscarinic receptors, histamine H1 receptors, and β2‐adrenoceptors are also involved in their spasmolytic effects on airway smooth muscles.
Skin testing with food allergens
Authors: Henzgen Margot , Ballmer‐Weber Barbara K. , Erdmann Stephan , Fuchs Thomas , Kleine‐Tebbe Jörg , Lepp Ute , Niggemann Bodo , Raithel Martin , Reese Imke , Saloga Joachim , Vieths Stefan , Zuberbier Torsten , Werfel Thomas
Published: August 2010

Skin testing has a central role in the diagnosis of food allergy. Prick testing is well‐ established as a routine diagnostic tool. Nonetheless, unstable allergens and the lack of standardized extracts create difficulties in the identification of sensitization to foods in patients with suspected food allergy. Therefore prick‐to‐prick tests with native (raw, fresh) foods are still recommended. The indications and contraindications are the same as those of routine skin testing in clinical allergology. We recommend a careful and restricted application of skin tests in patients with a history of severe anaphylaxis to foods.
The alr2505 (osiS) gene from Anabaena sp. strain PCC7120 encodes a cysteine desulfurase induced by oxidative stress
Authors: Ruiz Marion , Bettache Azzeddine , Janicki Annick , Vinella Daniel , Zhang Cheng‐Cai , Latifi Amel
Published: August 2010

NifS‐like cysteine desulfurases are widespread enzymes involved in the mobilization of sulfur from cysteine. The genome of the filamentous diazotrophic cyanobacterium Anabaena PCC 7120 contains four open reading frames potentially encoding NifS‐like proteins. One of them, alr2505, belongs to the pkn22 operon, which enables Anabaena to cope with oxidative stress. The Alr2505 protein was purified and found to share all the features characteristic of cysteine desufurases. This is the first NifS‐like enzyme to be functionally characterized in this bacterium. On the basis of the transcriptional profiling of all nifS‐like genes in Anabaena, it is concluded that alr2505 is the only cysteine desulfurase‐encoding gene induced by oxidative stress. The function of Alr2505, which was termed OsiS, is discussed.

Structured digital abstract

MINT‐7966515: osis (uniprotkb:Q8YU51) and osiS (uniprotkb:Q8YU51) physically interact (MI:0915) by two hybrid (MI:0018)
The Chemical UV‐Filter 3‐Benzylidene Camphor Causes an Oestrogenic Effect in an in vivo Fish Assay
Authors: Holbech Henrik , Nørum Ulrik , Korsgaard Bodil , Bjerregaard Poul
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Chemical UV‐filters are used in sun protection products and various kinds of cosmetics. The lipophilic chemical UV‐filter 3‐benzylidene camphor was investigated for its capability to cause vitellogenin induction, possibly via oestrogen receptor binding, in a well‐established in vivo fish assay (juvenile rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss, vitellogenin ELISA). A clear relationship was demonstrated between the dose of injected 3‐benzylidene camphor and the concentration of plasma vitellogenin with a 105‐times induction from 68 mg 3‐benzylidene camphor /kg/injection and above compared to the control vitellogenin level. The relationship between the injected dose of 3‐benzylidene camphor and the percent of responding fish (vitellogenin) was evaluated by logistic regression analysis and effective dose‐values (ED‐values) were determined. ED10, ED50 and ED90 of 3‐benzylidene camphor after 6 days (2 injections) were 6.4, 16 and 26 mg/kg/injection, respectively. These ED‐values place 3‐benzylidene camphor among the more potent xenooestrogens discovered to date and necessitates investigations on the distribution, concentration, persistence and bioaccumulation of 3‐benzylidene camphor and other UV‐filters in nature.
Anti‐Clastogenic Effect of Berberine against DMBA‐Induced Clastogenesis
Authors: Sindhu Ganapathy , Manoharan Shanmugam
Published: August 2010

Abstract: Our aim was to evaluate the protective effect of berberine on 7,12‐dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)‐induced chromosomal aberrations and micro‐nucleated polychromatic erythrocytes (MnPCEs) frequency in bone marrow cells of golden Syrian hamsters. The anti‐clastogenic effect of berberine (50 mg/kg b.w. p.o.) was also assessed by measuring the status of phase II detoxification enzymes and oxidative stress, as biochemical endpoints, during DMBA (30 mg/kg b.w. i.p.) induced clastogenesis. Marked chromosomal aberrations, increased MnPCEs frequency and enhanced status of lipid peroxidation, antioxidants and phase I and II detoxification enzymes were noticed in hamsters treated with DMBA alone. Oral pre‐treatment with berberine for 5 days to DMBA‐treated hamsters significantly reduced the frequency of MnPCEs and chromosomal abnormalities as well as reversed the status of lipid peroxidation, antioxidants and phase I and II detoxification enzymes. The present study thus suggests that berberine has potent anti‐clastogenic potential against DMBA‐induced clastogenesis, which is probably due to its anti‐lipid peroxidative potential and effect on modulation of phase I and II detoxification cascade.
Up‐Regulation of G‐Protein‐Coupled Receptors for Endothelin and Thromboxane by Lipid‐Soluble Smoke Particles in Renal Artery of Rat
Authors: Xie Yan‐hua , Wang Si‐wang , Zhang Yaping , Edvinsson Lars , Xu Cang‐Bao
Published: August 2010

Abstract:  Up‐regulation of G‐protein‐coupled receptors (GPCR) plays key roles in renal hypertension and cardiovascular disease pathogenesis. The present study was designed to examine if lipid‐soluble cigarette smoking particles (DSP), nicotine and endotoxin (LPS), induce GPCR up‐regulation for thromboxane A2 (TP), endothelin type A (ETA) and type B (ETB) receptors in renal artery, and if intracellular signal mechanisms are involved. Renal artery segments of rats were exposed to DSP, nicotine or LPS, in organ culture for up to 24 hr. The GPCR‐mediated contractions were recorded by using a myograph system. Expression of the GPCR was examined by real‐time PCR and immunohistochemistry at mRNA and protein levels. Sarafatoxin 6c (S6c, selective ETB receptor agonist), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1, non‐selective ETA and ETB receptor agonist) and 9,11‐Dideoxy‐9a,11a‐methanoepoxy prostaglandin F2a (U46619, a TP receptor agonist) induced contractions were significantly increased after the arterial segments exposed to DSP in a concentration‐dependent (0.1–0.4 μl/ml) manner, and S6c also induced a time‐dependent contraction, compared to control (dimethyl sulfoxide). This was in parallel with enhanced mRNA expression for ETB receptor but not ETA and TP receptors, while increased protein expression for ETA, ETB and TP receptors was seen. The specific nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) signal pathway inhibitor BMS345541 was applied to link DSP effects to the GPCR up‐regulation. It totally abolished ETB receptor up‐regulation, but not ETA and TP receptor up‐regulations. Our results suggest that DSP transcriptionally up‐regulated ETB receptor expression in rat renal artery via NF‐κB signal pathways, whereas up‐regulation of ETA and TP receptor‐mediated contraction may involve post‐transcriptional mechanisms.
Health and nutrition beliefs and perceptions of Brisbane adolescents
Authors: Giskes Katrina , Patterson Carla , Turrell Gavin , Newman Beth
Published: August 2010

Objective:  To examine the health and nutrition beliefs and perceptions of Brisbane adolescents.

Design and methods:  Adolescents completed individual, semi‐structured, face‐to‐face qualitative interviews that were transcribed verbatim and analysed by thematic analysis.

Subjects:  Twenty‐nine boys and girls aged 13–15 years.

Setting:  All adolescents were residents of Brisbane city; interviews were conducted in their homes.

Main outcome measures:  Themes raised and the frequency of their occurrence in discussions about health and nutrition.

Results:  Health was perceived as being able to carry out daily physical tasks and was also seen as being a direct consequence of undertaking various ‘healthy’ behaviours (such as eating a good diet, undertaking physical activity and obtaining adequate sleep). Adolescents saw health as being an individual's responsibility (rather than a consequence of factors external to the individual). They identified a healthy diet as eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, being low in fat and balanced. Major barriers identified to healthy eating were taste and convenience.

Conclusions:  Adolescents are knowledgeable about behavioural risk factors that influence their health, consider their health as important and are well informed of the characteristics of a healthy diet. They regard health as their own responsibility. Therefore, health and nutrition promotion initiatives may be most effective if they attempt to improve adolescents’ perceptions of healthy eating in terms of taste and convenience, rather than just focusing on the provision of information.
Infant feeding practices in home countries and Australia: Perth Chinese mothers survey
Authors: Li Lin , Zhang Min , Scott Jane A. , Binns Colin W.
Published: August 2010

Objective:  This study aimed to document the infant feeding practices of Chinese‐Australian mothers in their home countries and following migration to Australia. The factors that influenced infant feeding practices are also described.

Design:  A cross‐sectional survey.

Subjects:  A sample of 506 Mandarin‐speaking mothers with at least one child, who were born outside of Australia, resident in the Perth area and aged between 23 and 59 years.

Setting:  Community‐based household telephone interviews in Perth, Western Australia.

Statistical analysis:  χ2‐statistics was used to test the differences in the rates and factors influencing infant feeding practices between mothers’ home countries and Australia.

Results:  There were no significant differences between any breastfeeding rates among Chinese women delivering in either their home countries where breastfeeding initiation was 86.6% or in Australia. Full breastfeeding rates at three and six months for Chinese women were lower than recent Australian rates. Chinese women delivering in Australia received more breastfeeding support and assistance from health professionals. In Australia, 78% stated that they received support form their doctors and nurses for breastfeeding compared with 37.6% in their home countries (P < 0.001). In particular, they were more likely to have put their infant to the breast immediately after birth (47.9%) compared with women delivering in their home countries (4.1%) (P < 0.001). Solid foods were introduced earlier in their home countries.

Conclusion:  The Chinese‐Australian mothers’ infant feeding practices in Australia reflected both Western and Eastern influences. The Chinese mothers introduced complementary foods earlier than in other Australian studies, suggesting that culturally specific programs will be needed to encourage exclusive breastfeeding to six months.
Wellbeing and nutrition‐related side effects in children undergoing chemotherapy
Authors: IKEDA E. Beatrix , COLLINS Clare E. , ALVARO Frank , MARSHALL Glenn , GARG Manohar L.
Published: August 2010

Objective:  To describe wellbeing and nutrition‐related side effects in a group of paediatric oncology patients undergoing chemotherapy, and to examine associations with nutritional status, disease and treatment‐related factors.

Methods:  Cross‐sectional survey of patients attending the Sydney (n = 41) or John Hunter Children’s Hospitals (n = 13). Wellbeing was assessed using the Multi‐attribute Health Status Classification Scheme (MHSCS) and the Play Performance Scale (PPS). Disease and treatment details were obtained through patient and parent interviews and audit of medical records. Nutritional status was assessed using anthropometric and biochemical measurements.

Results:  Twenty‐four per cent and 33% scored maximum points on the MHSCS and PPS, respectively. Advanced stage of solid tumour or lymphoma was associated with worse MHSCS scores, P = 0.008. Longer time on treatment correlated negatively with PPS scores (r = −0.35; P = 0.030). The most frequent side effects were nausea, decreased appetite, vomiting and changes in taste. While 67% experienced five or more side effects concurrently, the number increased with length of time on treatment (r = 0.38; P = 0.006). Of the 23 patients experiencing five or more side effects, only two had been seen by a dietitian in the previous two months.

Conclusion:  Nutrition‐related side effects are common in children undergoing chemotherapy, with the number of side effects not decreasing over time. While wellbeing scores were generally satisfactory, those with advanced stage of solid tumour or lymphoma, or with longer time on treatment, reported lower scores. We recommend that all paediatric oncology patients are referred for dietetic review, even those in the later stages of treatment, in order to optimise nutritional status and wellbeing.
The Motivational Substrate of Unintended and Unwanted Pregnancy1
Authors: Miller Warren B. , Pasta David J.
Published: August 2010

We have postulated a biologically based substrate of childbearing motivation that underlies reproductive behavior. The goal of this study was to examine how this motivation flows through the conscious states of a contracepting couple to affect their behavior, first prior to and then after the occurence of an unintended pregnancy. We collected data from 178 couples seeking a pregnancy test at a Planned Parenthood Clinic. We showed the measurement of critical constructs to have satisfactory convergent validity. We constructed one individual‐level and two couple‐level models, all of which we tested with a linear structural equations analysis (LISREL). All three models had good fits. The findings support the central idea of a motivational substrate that has both positive and negative components and is composed of both conscious (explicit) and unconscious (implicit) factors. At the psychological level, the expression of this substrate can be understood in terms of a traits‐desires‐intentions‐behavior framework. At the dyadic level, substrate expression allows inferences about the effects of couple communication, influence, and disagreement. Prior to conception, the motivational substrate affects the regularity of contraceptive use and, following the occurrence of an unintended pregnancy, it affects the “wantedness” of that pregnancy.
Affective and Behavioral Stress Outcomes in Alzheimer's Caregivers
Authors: Burns Edith A. , Fleming Raymond , Wagstaff David A. , Goodwin James S. , Hirschman Robert , Greenberg Jordan J.
Published: August 2010

Few investigations have looked at behavioral stress outcomes in Alzheimer's caregivers. This study documented concentration deficits to examine behavioral outcomes of stress in 33 Alzheimer's Disease (AD) caregivers and in 33 age‐, sex‐, and race‐matched controls. As hypothesized, caregivers showed less persistence than controls in solving problems from a standard test of problem‐solving ability. In addition, caregivers tended to make more errors than controls on a standard proofreading task (p < .09). In AD caregivers, cognitive deficits (represented by lower scores on problem‐solving and concentration tasks) may be representative of a broader deficit in concentration that impairs the ability of caregivers to provide for their own needs and the needs of the family member for whom they are caring.
Treatment of Hay Fever With the Antihistamine Desloratadine: Impact on Performance of Simple, Intermediate, and Complex Task Requirements1
Authors: Satish Usha , Streufert Siegfried
Published: August 2010

Seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR), which is known as hay fever, can diminish task performance and quality of life. Antihistamines are used to treat the symptoms of SAR. This research compared desloratadine with placebo for the treatment of SAR. Additional baseline data were obtained outside the allergy season. Nine real‐world equivalent performance scores were obtained from individuals participating in the Strategic Management Simulation. For easier task demands, no difference between treatment conditions was observed. For demands of intermediate difficulty, SAR diminished performance and desloratadine restored performance to baseline. For the most challenging task demands, desloratadine treatment improved performance over allergy season placebo treatment. The data suggest that the beneficial effects of desloratadine vary with task difficulty.
Empathy, Guilt, Volunteer Experiences, and Intentions to Continue Volunteering Among Buddy Volunteers in an AIDS Organization1
Authors: Stolinski Amy M. , Ryan Carey S. , Hausmann Leslie R. M. , Wernli Molly A.
Published: August 2010

We examined the influence of empathic concern, perspective‐taking, personal distress, and guilt on perceptions of volunteer experiences and intentions to continue volunteering among buddy volunteers serving HIV positive clients. Volunteers who exhibited empathic concern and perspective‐taking perceived their volunteer experiences to be more challenging and important, and these perceptions predicted intentions to continue volunteering. The effect of empathic concern on intentions was mediated by perceptions that volunteer experiences were challenging and important. Volunteers who felt greater guilt had closer relationships with their client buddies, and closer relationships predicted stronger intentions to continue volunteering. Volunteers who experienced greater personal distress perceived their volunteer experiences to be more disappointing. Neither guilt nor personal distress influenced intentions to continue volunteering.
The Influence of Perceived Loci of Control and Causality in the Theory of Planned Behavior in a Leisure‐Time Exercise Context
Authors: Hagger Martin S. , Armitage Christopher J.
Published: August 2010

The contribution that generalized locus of control and perceived locus of causality made to adolescents' intentions to participate in leisure‐time physical activity was examined. A mediational model included constructs from three theoretical approaches: locus of control, self‐determination theory (SDT), and the theory of planned behavior. A structural equation model revealed that the effects of generalized locus of control on attitudes, subjective norms, and intentions to participate in physical activity were mediated by intrinsic motives from SDT. Findings provide evidence in support of a motivational sequence in which locus of control influences situation‐specific attitudes, subjective norms, and intentions mediated by the context‐specific motives from SDT.
Stress, Breast Cancer Risk, and Breast Self‐Examination: Chronic Effects of Risk and Worry1
Authors: Posluszny Donna M. , McFeeley Sheila , Hall Laurie , Baum Andrew
Published: August 2010

Identifying the risk factors for breast cancer allows targeted prevention and surveillance of women with higher than average risk. Moreover, aggressive, regular surveillance is necessary if mortality is to be reduced by finding disease in its early, more treatable stages. However, learning that one is at risk may cause stress as women worry about developing breast cancer and the severity of its effects. This study examined the distress associated with breast cancer risk by measuring perceived stress, breast cancer worry, risk perception, and surveillance behavior in women with average and higher than average risk profiles. Women at higher risk reported more worry, intrusive thoughts, and emotional upset throughout the year of the study than did women with average risk. In addition, stress reduced adherence to regular breast self‐examination.
The Effects of Message Framing on Exercise Adherence and Health Beliefs Among Patients in a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
Authors: McCall Lori A. , Ginis Kathleen A. Martin
Published: August 2010

This experiment examined the effects of framed health education messages on exercise adherence among patients entering a cardiac rehabilitation program, as well as the mediating effects of health‐related cognitions. Patients read gain‐framed, loss‐framed, or no messages about the importance of exercise with regard to heart disease and completed measures of health beliefs using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Over the following 3‐month period, patients in the gain‐framed message condition exercised more than did those in the no message condition. Significant between‐group differences were observed on the HBM constructs of perceived susceptibility to heart disease and barriers to exercise, but these health beliefs did not mediate the effects of the educational messages. The results suggest value in using gain‐framed educational materials in the cardiac population.
Helping Middle‐Aged Women Translate Physical Activity Intentions Into Action: Combining the Theory of Planned Behavior and Implementation Intentions
Authors: Arbour Kelly P. , Ginis Kathleen A. Martin
Published: August 2010

The current experiment examined whether women with implementation intentions show greater correspondence between their exercise intentions and behaviors, exercise more frequently, and show changes over time in measures of theory of planned behavior (TPB) constructs and scheduling self‐efficacy relative to a control group. Participants were 47 women randomly allocated to an implementation intentions or control condition. Measures of TPB constructs and scheduling self‐efficacy were assessed at baseline and 8 weeks later. Regression analyses showed that intentions were a significant predictor of behavior for women in the experimental condition (p .01). A significant Condition * Time interaction was found for scheduling efficacy (p .03) and a nonsignificant interaction was found for perceived behavioral control (p = .06), indicating that only the experimental group increased scheduling self‐efficacy and perceived behavioral control. No significant group differences were found for the other TPB constructs or self‐reported exercise.
The Social Construction of Beliefs About Cancer: A Critical Discourse Analysis of Racial Differences in the Popular Press
Authors: Petersen Suni , Soucar Beth , Sherman‐Slate Elisabeth , Luna Lynn
Published: August 2010

There is a great disparity between African and Caucasian Americans with regard to frequency of cancer screenings, timely follow‐up, and scheduling diagnostic appointments. This study compared popular press articles targeting African Americans with those targeting Caucasian Americans in an effort to understand how the media, which is often a reflection of the dominant culture, contributes to this disparity. The data were analyzed along three dimensions: comparative descriptive analysis, comparative impact on the reader's beliefs about cancer, and the social control exerted by the political‐economic context in which the discourse on cancer occurs. Significant differences were found in many of the parameters. The results demonstrate the importance of considering the influence of the media when targeting healthcare interventions.
The Influence of Fear of AIDS and Expectancies About Employees With AIDS on the Decision to Fire Employees With AIDS
Authors: Vest Michael J. , Carr Jon C. , Tarnoff Karen A. , Vest Jusanne M.
Published: August 2010

This research investigated the relationship of managers' fear of AIDS and expectancies about employees with AIDS (EWAs; e.g., managers' beliefs about EWAs' ability to perform the job) to the likelihood of firing EWAs. In addition, the relationship of fear of AIDS to expectancies about EWAs also was assessed. Path analysis was used to test the proposed relationships using a sample of 194 managers. Fear of AIDS and expectancies about disruptions in the workplace and reductions in revenue were related significantly to likelihood of firing EWAs. Fear of AIDS also was related significantly to expectancies about disruptions in the workplace, reduced revenue, and increased insurance costs. Suggestions for future research, implications, and study limitations are discussed.
Visual pathways and psychophysical channels in the primate
Authors: Lee Barry B.
Published: August 2010

The main cell systems of the retina that provide input to the striate cortex are now well described, although certain aspects of their anatomy and physiology remain contentious. Under simple stimulus conditions and in a threshold context psychophysical performance can often be assigned to one or other of these systems, and an identification of psychophysical channels with afferent pathways is justifiable. However, results from psychophysical studies using more complex stimulus conditions are more difficult to relate to ‘front end’ channels, and it is more difficult to separate the physiological contributions of afferent pathways from those of cortical mechanisms, in particular the separation of dorsal and ventral streams.
Corticogeniculate feedback and visual processing in the primate
Authors: Briggs Farran , Usrey W. Martin
Published: August 2010

Corticogeniculate neurones make more synapses in the lateral geniculate nucleus (LGN) than retinal ganglion cells, yet we know relatively little about the functions of corticogeniculate feedback for visual processing. In primates, feedforward projections from the retina to the LGN and from the LGN to primary visual cortex are organized into anatomically and physiologically distinct parallel pathways. Recent work demonstrates a close relationship between these parallel streams of feedforward projections and the corticogeniculate feedback pathway. Here, we review the evidence for stream‐specific feedback in the primate and consider the implications of parallel streams of feedback for vision.
Erythropoietin down‐regulates proximal renal tubular reabsorption and causes a fall in glomerular filtration rate in humans
Authors: Olsen Niels Vidiendal , Aachmann‐Andersen Niels‐Jacob , Oturai Peter , Munch‐Andersen Thor , Bornø Andreas , Hulston Carl , Holstein‐Rathlou Niels‐Henrik , Robach Paul , Lundby Carsten
Published: August 2010

Non‐technical summary  Recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) decreases circulating levels of renin and aldosterone, two hormones regulating water and salt homeostasis, but the effect of rHuEPO on renal function is unknown. This study demonstrates that rHuEPO reduces the reabsorption of water and sodium in the proximal renal tubules and, probably by activation of the tubuloglomerular feedback mechanism, also causes a fall in glomerular filtration rate. Thus, the decrease in plasma concentrations of renin and aldosterone may be secondary to increased end‐proximal tubular delivery of water and sodium. In conclusion, the fall in proximal reabsorption together with a reduced filtered load and a decrease in angiotensin II and aldosterone‐dependent tubular reabsorption are expected to increase the oxygen tension in the renal tissue. This may serve to down‐regulate the endogenous renal synthesis of EPO in the presence of high levels of circulating rHuEPO.
A Recursive Algorithm for Solving the Generalized Velocities From the Momenta of Flexible Multibody Systems
Authors: Tong Martin M.
Published: August 2010

Hamilton’s equations can be used to define the dynamics of a tree configured flexible multibody system. Their states are the generalized coordinates and momenta (p,q). Numerical solution of these equations requires the time derivatives of the states be defined. Hamilton’s equations have the benefit that the time derivative of the system momenta are easy to compute. However, the generalized velocities q̇ need be solved from the system momenta as defined by p=J(q)q̇ to support the computation of ṗ and the propagation of q. Because of the size of J, the determination of q̇ by linear equation solution schemes requires order ([N+∑i=1Nni]3) arithmetic operations, where N is the number of bodies and ni is the number of mode shape functions used to model the ith body deformations. It has been shown that q̇ can be solved recursively from the momentum equations for rigid multibody systems (Naudet, Lefeber, and Terze, 2003, “Forward Dynamics of Open-Loop Multibody Mechanisms Using An Efficient Recursive Algorithm Based On Canonical Momenta,” Multibody Syst. Dyn., 10, pp. 45–59). This paper extends that result to flexible multibody systems. The overall arithmetic operations to solve for q̇ in this case is proportional to N if the effort to solve for the flexible coordinate rates for each body is weighted the same as that for the joint rate. However, each time the flexible coordinates rate of a body is solved an order (ni3) operations is incurred. Thus, the total computational effort for flexible multibody systems includes an additional order (∑i=1Nni3) operations.
Internal Resonance Analysis for Electromechanical Integrated Toroidal Drive
Authors: Xu Xiuhong Hao Lizhong
Published: August 2010

In this paper, the electromechanical coupled nonlinear equations for the electromechanical integrated toroidal drive are proposed. Using the equations, the free vibration and forced response under internal resonance are investigated. The effects of the drive parameters on the resonance are investigated. Three different resonance types exist for the different drive parameters. They are the normal resonance, internal resonance, and jump vibration between the normal and internal resonances. Compared with the normal resonance without internal resonance, the internal resonance has a large amplitude and the energy exchange occurs between the vibrations of the different components. The resonance types of the drive system are dependent on the electromechanical parameters of the drive system. In the design stage, one can select properly the electromechanical parameters of the drive system to remove the internal resonance and the jump vibration.
Uniqueness of the Geometric Representation in Large Rotation Finite Element Formulations
Authors: Shabana Ahmed A.
Published: August 2010

Several finite element formulations used in the analysis of large rotation and large deformation problems employ independent interpolations for the displacement and rotation fields. As explained in this paper, three rotations defined as field variables can be sufficient to define a space curve that represents the element centerline. The frame defined by the rotations can differ from the Frenet frame of the space curve defined by the same rotation field and, therefore, such a rotation-based representation can provide measure of twist shear deformations and captures the rotation of the beam about its axis. However, the space curve defined using the rotation interpolation has a geometry that can significantly differ from the geometry defined by an independent displacement interpolation. Furthermore, the two different space curves defined by the two different interpolations can differ by a rigid body motion. Therefore, in these formulations, the uniqueness of the kinematic representation is an issue unless nonlinear algebraic constraint equations are used to establish relationships between the two independent displacement and rotation interpolations. Nonetheless, significant geometric and kinematic differences between two independent space curves cannot always be reduced by using restoring elastic forces. Because of the nonuniqueness of such a finite element representation, imposing continuity on higher derivatives such as the curvature vector is not straight forward as in the case of the absolute nodal coordinate formulation (ANCF) that defines unique displacement and rotation fields. ANCF finite elements allow for imposing curvature continuity without increasing the order of the interpolation or the number of nodal coordinates, as demonstrated in this paper. Furthermore, the relationship between ANCF finite elements and the B-spline representation used in computational geometry can be established, allowing for a straight forward integration of computer aided design and analysis.
Geometric and Kinematic Modeling of a Variable Displacement Hydraulic Bent-Axis Piston Pump
Authors: Abuhaiba Mohammad , Olson Walter W.
Published: August 2010

One of the problems of a hydraulic hybrid vehicle (HHV) reported from testing by EPA is that the noise levels emitted by the hydraulic system are not acceptable. The pump is the main source of noise in HHV systems. However, the lack of space, the high pressure, and the dynamics of components within the pump have prevented either direct observation or measurement of potential noise causing mechanisms within the pump structure. As a result, there are several theories as to the source of the noise from the pump units but little concrete information to further isolate and reduce the noise generation. In this paper, a kinematic and a geometric model of a bent-axis pump have been created as part of a complete dynamic model. The other elements of the complete dynamic model that are not discussed in this paper include finding the variation of piston pressure, flow rate, and dynamic forces acting on the pump components as a function of angular rotations of both the main shaft and the yoke in the time and frequency domains. These elements address the harmonics of the forces acting on the case of the pump and will be presented in a future paper. The model was constructed using MATHEMATICA™ software and verified against very well known conditions of the motion of the main shaft and the yoke. It was found that the model predicted the variations of the angular velocities and accelerations of the entire pump’s parts starting from the main shaft to the yoke.