bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Depressive symptoms during pregnancy in relation to fish consumption and intake of n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Sontrop Jessica , Avison William R. , Evers Susan E. , Speechley Kathy N. , Campbell M. Karen 
Published: May 2008

SummaryAn inverse association between depression and the n‐3 fatty acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), primarily obtained from fish consumption, is observed in both observational and experimental research and is biologically plausible. Study objectives were to examine whether prenatal depressive symptoms were associated with lower intakes of fish or EPA+DHA. Pregnant women (n = 2394) completed a telephone interview between 10 and 22 weeks' gestation in London, Ontario, 2002–05. Depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies – Depression Scale (CES‐D). Intakes of fish and EPA+DHA were measured using a validated food‐frequency questionnaire. Sequential multiple regression was used to examine associations of depressive symptoms with intake of fish and EPA+DHA, respectively, while controlling for sociodemographic, health and lifestyle variables.The mean CES‐D score was 9.9 (SD 8.0). Intake of EPA+DHA was dichotomised at the median value of 85 mg/day. Fish consumption and intake of EPA+DHA were not associated with prenatal depressive symptoms after adjustment for confounders; however, depressive symptoms were significantly higher for lower intakes of EPA+DHA among current smokers and women of single/separated/divorced marital status. The adjusted difference in CES‐D scores between intake categories of EPA+DHA was −2.4 [95% CI −4.2, −0.4] for current smokers and −2.8 [95% CI −5.2, −0.4] for women of single marital status. Although pregnant women may be at risk for low concentrations of EPA and DHA, an association between low intakes of EPA+DHA and increased depressive symptoms was only observed among current smokers and women of single marital status.
The predicted impact of immunosuppression upon population age–intensity profiles for schistosomiasis
Authors: MITCHELL K. M. , MUTAPI F. , WOOLHOUSE M. E. J. 
Published: May 2008

SUMMARYThe slow development of acquired immunity is thought to be responsible for the characteristic convex age–intensity curve seen in human schistosome infection, which peaks earlier in more heavily infected populations (this is described as a peak shift). Schistosomes are able to suppress protective host responses, and it is hypothesized that this suppression is responsible for the delayed development of protective responses. A deterministic mathematical model is used to describe levels of infection and immunity in an endemic population, incorporating protective immune responses which either reduce adult worm burden or reduce superinfection. Suppression, related to current worm burden, is also included and acts against one or both protective responses. If suppression acts against the entire protective response, it is able to delay the development of protective immunity, and the peak shift is predicted to be reversed at higher infection intensities, with removal of the peaks altogether at the highest levels of infection and/or suppression. If only the anti‐adult worm protective immune response is vulnerable to suppression, while the anti‐reinfection response remains intact, then suppression does not remove the peak in the age–intensity curve. These findings are discussed in the light of existing field and experimental data.
Influence of environmental pH modulation on efficiency of apoplastic PR proteins during Fusarium culmorum– wheat seedling interaction
Authors: Aleandri M. P. , Magro P. , Chilosi G. 
Published: May 2008

Variation of apoplastic pH by Fusarium culmorum and its influence on the production, activity and isoenzymes patterns of the pathogenesis‐related (PR) proteins β1,3‐glucanase, chitinase and peroxidase enzymes were detected in apoplastic fluids (AFs) from infected wheat seedlings. The time course in the 24–48 h interval post infection was characterized by an increase in activity and isoenzymatic differential induction of the selected PR proteins and by a concomitant rise of apoplastic pH. Chitinase attained maximum activity at pH 8·0 in the case of inoculated seedlings. Optimal β1,3‐glucanase activity in the pH range 6·0–8·0, was observed at pH 7·0. Peroxidase was strongly affected by pH, with enzyme activity having a maximum rate at pH 6·0 and thereafter rapidly declining at higher pH. Maximum peroxidase activity paralleled the appearance of the complete isoenzymatic pattern. In order to investigate the biological role of PR proteins in AFs, the in vitro antifungal activity was evaluated. In the interval 0–6 h, pH of macroconidia suspensions rose up to 7·2. AFs revealed inhibitory activity against germinating macroconidia of F. culmorum by decreasing the germination efficiency of macroconidia apical compartments, while this effect was compensated by an increased germination capacity of middle compartments. Present results suggest that during infection of wheat seedlings by F. culmorum the pH modulation favours host colonization by enhancing the activity of pectin lyase, and simultaneously inhibits the capacity of the host to oppose the pathogen by interfering with peroxidases which represent an important component of the defence arsenal.
Dietary Gluten Reduces the Number of Intestinal Regulatory T Cells in Mice
Authors: Ejsing‐Duun M. , Josephsen J. , Aasted B. , Buschard K. , Hansen A. K. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractIt is well established that gluten‐free diet reduces the incidence of type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1D) in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice, though the mechanism is not known. However, regulatory T cells (Treg) are likely to play an important role. Also, it is known that dietary gluten induces an intestinal increase in the bacterium Lactococcus garvieae, but the importance of this phenomenon for T1D development is doubtful. Our hypothesis is that gluten is responsible for mediating its effect on T1D through the influence on Treg development independent of gluten‐induced Lactococci. Four groups of female NOD and BALB/c mice of 3 week old were fed either a gluten‐free diet or a standard diet. Lactococcus garvieae or saline water was administered per oral to one of each dietary group. Spleen and Peyer′s patches were sampled from BALB/c mice for flow cytometric monitoring of IL‐10 and Treg. NOD mice were diagnosed diabetic with blood glucose level >12 mmol/l. Dietary gluten significantly decreased the occurrence of Tregs by 10–15% (P < 0.05) in mice compared with those fed a standard diet. These results and the diabetes incidence were independent of the gluten‐induced bacterial factor Lactococci. The prevalence of Treg was 5‐ to 10‐fold more abundant in the Peyer′s patches than in the spleen (P < 0.001). In conclusion, dietary gluten has a significant negative quantitative impact on the generation of Treg in mice, independent of gluten‐induced Lactococcus garvieae, and Treg are far more abundant in Peyer′s patches than in the spleen.
Pathogenesis of Autoimmune Diseases: Antibodies Against Transglutaminase, Peptidylarginine Deiminase and Protein‐bound Citrulline in Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome, Multiple Sclerosis and Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Bodil Roth E. , Theander E. , Londos E. , Sandberg‐Wollheim M. , Larsson Å. , Sjöberg K. , Stenberg P. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractCoeliac disease (CD) is becoming a model for understanding the pathogenesis of autoimmune disorders. In CD, antibodies against transglutaminase 2 (TG2) and specific residues of gliadins have been identified. A similar situation is seen in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with both anti‐citrullinated protein antibodies (ACPA) and auto‐antibodies against the citrullinating enzyme, peptidylarginine deiminase (PAD). Previously, we have suggested that a complex between an enzyme and its modified substrate constitutes the neoantigen in autoimmune diseases. Our hypothesis is challenged by findings in patients of primary Sjögren’s syndrome (pSS) who do not express ACPA, but who have been reported to carry anti‐PAD. The aims of our investigation were to reproduce the study claiming the presence of anti‐PAD in pSS and screen for ACPA and antibodies against TG2 and PAD in pSS (n = 78), multiple sclerosis (MS) (n = 85) and Alzheimer's disease (AD) (n = 79) using ELISA. With blood donors (n = 100) as controls, no increased occurrence of autoantibodies was found among the patient groups tested. Contrary to what has been published previously, patients with pSS do not express anti‐PAD. The hypothesis of a complex between an enzyme and its modified substrate constituting the neoantigen in autoimmune diseases is still valid. The prevalence of anti‐PAD, anti‐TG2 and ACPA is comparatively restricted. PAD and TG2 do not seem to be involved directly in autoimmune mechanisms in pSS, MS or AD.
Electrokinetic properties of human cryopreserved platelets
Authors: Bateson E. A. J. , Crook M. A. , Brozovic B. , Crawford N. 
Published: May 2008

SUMMARY. A method for the cryopreservation of human platelets with glycerol/glucose is described which was a simplified modification of the method of Dayian and Pert (1979). The effect of cryoinjury of the platelet surface membrane was investigated by studying the surface electrokinetic properties of the platelet. A significant increase in platelet electrophoretic mobility was found after cryopreservation. The fresh platelets had a mean electrophoretic mobility of 1.04 ± 0.05 μm s‐1 V‐1 cm‐1 and cryopreserved platelets 1.18 ± 0.05 μm s‐1 V‐1 cm‐1, P < 0.05. However, the total platelet sialic acid of fresh platelets was 62.5 ± 5.6 nmol 10‐9 platelets compared to 47.2 ± 4.6 nmol 10‐9 platelets after cryopreservation, P < 0.001. Similarly, the neuraminidase‐labile sialic acid was 26.4 ± 4.3 nmol 10‐9 platelets for fresh platelets and 17.6 ± 4.0 nmol 10‐9 platelets after cryopreservation, P < 0.001.Using polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis with Western blotting, we showed a reduction in the platelet glycoprotein Gp Ib after cryopreservation, this was confirmed by using crossed immunoelectrophoresis. Electron microscopy revealed a significant change in platelet morphology after the cryopreservation procedure with disruption of the platelet membrane and also platelet shape change. These features may explain the changes in platelet electrokinetic properties.
Optimization of coffee berry borer, Hypothenemus hampei Ferrari (Col., Scolytidae), mass trapping with an attractant mixture
Authors: Dufour B. P. , Frérot B. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractMass trapping is a technique currently being considered to control the coffee berry borer (CBB), Hypothenemus hampei Ferrari (Col., Scolytidae), as part of the integrated management of its populations. However, the research undertaken in this field has variable and sometimes contradictory results. The purpose of this study carried out with a single type of trap (experimental model ‘1B’) was to evaluate the technique and define parameters for its efficient use. The first result obtained was detection of the excellent attractant properties of the ethanol–methanol mixture, and its efficiency related to the proportion of the two alcohols. Coffee borers were not attracted to traps with caffeine, green coffee powder, freshly pulped and hulled coffee berries and ground CBB. It was shown that the ethanol–methanol mixture (1 : 1) release rate varied without affecting the capture rate, and that the red colour of the trap substantially increased CBB attraction. In terms of trap set‐up, it was found that capture rates were three times better with a trap height at 1.2 m, than that for a position near ground level. In addition, the best density of traps for achieving efficient mass trapping was 22 units per hectare. These results show the importance of developing an attractant using pure compounds, and of improving the trap and the trapping technique in line with CBB behaviour.
Effects of a 12‐month exercise program on cardiorespiratory health indicators of Vietnam War veterans resident in the tropics
Authors: Kerr Rebecca M. , Leicht Anthony S. , Spinks Warwick L. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractObjective:  To measure the effect of a combined aerobic and resistance exercise program on key cardiovascular disease risk factors (i.e. body composition or anthropometry and cardiorespiratory function) of Australian male, Vietnam War veterans living in the tropics. Design:  Twelve‐month exercise program with assessments at commencement, 3, 6 and 12 months. Setting:  North Queensland regional centre. Participants:  Australian male, Vietnam War veterans (n = 164) resident in north Queensland.Main outcome measures:  Measurement of heart rate, blood pressure, skinfold and girth measurements, exercise heart rate response and estimated aerobic capacity to determine whether the implementation of a simple aerobic and resistance exercise program could positively change selected cardiovascular disease risk factors in Vietnam Veterans. Results:  Significant improvements were reported for systolic blood pressure (131.1 (SD 15.7) reduced to 122.7 (12.4) mmHg), diastolic blood pressure (82.7 (9.1) reduced to 76.3 (10.3) mmHg), resting heart rate (73 (11) reduced to 69 (11) bpm), sum of skinfolds (127.5 (40.3) reduced to 99.5 (32.1) mm), waist girth (103.2 (12.0) reduced to 100.5 (12.1) cm), hip girth (105.3 (9.6) reduced to 103.7 (10.4) cm) and aerobic capacity (2.17 (0.39) increased to 2.36 (0.34) L min

−1

). Conclusion:  Participation in a combined aerobic and resistance training program elicited significant anthropometric and cardiorespiratory benefits that might lead to a decreased risk of developing cardiovascular disease for male Vietnam War veterans resident in rural and regional areas.
Extended scope practitioners and clinical specialists: A place in rural health?
Authors: Ruston Sally A. 
Published: May 2008

Abstract This review identifies two models of allied health advanced practitioner practice that are currently in place in the National Health Service in the United Kingdom (UK). A review of the background to advanced practitioner status is given for UK allied health professionals and comments made on the outcomes of the UK roles. Description of the work of Clinical Specialist and Extended Scope Practitioner is given. Alignment with senior physiotherapy staff roles in Australia is commented upon. Some barriers or impediments to implementation of such a system in Australia are discussed with respect to registration, funding and support. The feasibility of such advanced practice roles for physiotherapy is discussed while benefits and cautions are identified. The potential for such a model of health service to be used in Australia, particularly in rural and remote areas, is identified for debate.
Exploring the barriers and enablers to attendance at rural cardiac rehabilitation programs
Authors: De Angelis Carla , Bunker Steve , Schoo Adrian 
Published: May 2008

AbstractObjective:  The objectives of this study were to: (i) identify local barriers and enablers to the uptake of hospital‐based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs, and (ii) identify preferred alternatives for the delivery of CR. Design:  A questionnaire administered by local CR coordinators and focus groups facilitated by the research team. Setting:  Six regional hospitals in south‐west Victoria offering hospital‐based CR programs. Participants:  Patients and their carers referred to and eligible for local CR programs; health professionals working within local CR programs. Main outcomes measures:  CR attendees and decliners demographics, patient and health professional perceived factors which contribute to enabling hospital‐based CR attendance, patient and health professional perceived barriers to CR attendance, and receptiveness and preferences for alternative modes of CR delivery. Results:  This study identified distance to travel to hospital‐based CR programs the only statistically significant factor in determining uptake of CR. Easy access to transport (63%) and to a lesser extent family support (49%) and work flexibility (43%) were the primary enablers to attendance. Of the 97 study participants, 38% were receptive to alternative CR methods such as programs in outlying communities, evening facility‐based programs, home and GP based programs, telephone support and a patient manual/workbook. Conclusions:  The results of this study provide valuable information for designing strategies to increase utilisation and improve patient acceptability of existing hospital‐based CR programs. It provides a basis for pilot testing alternative modes of CR program delivery for cardiac patients in rural areas unable to access hospital‐based CR.
Risk behaviours and blood borne virus exposure for transient workers in rural Victoria
Authors: Pedrana Alisa , Aitken Campbell , Higgs Peter , Hellard Margaret 
Published: May 2008

AbstractObjective:  To investigate risk behaviours associated with the transmission of blood borne viruses (BBVs) and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) among transient rural workers in Victoria. Design:  Cross‐sectional study using a convenience sampling frame. Setting:  Between June and August 2006, 89 participants were recruited from sites located in three rural centres in Victoria's Loddon and Mallee regions. Data were collected using a short questionnaire that asked about history of transient work, sexual history, condom use, alcohol and illicit drug use, and BBV history and testing. Finger‐prick blood samples were collected in order to determine prevalence of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and hepatitis C virus (HCV) exposure. Results:  Eighty‐nine individuals completed a questionnaire, and 85 (96%) provided a finger‐prick blood sample for antibody testing. Twenty‐seven participants (30%) were consuming alcohol at levels risky to health. Thirty per cent of participants with new partners reported infrequent condom use. Illicit drug use (mainly marijuana) was widespread with more than 46% of the sample reporting recent use of illicit drugs. An HCV exposure prevalence of 2.4% was measured; no samples tested reactive for HIV antibodies. Conclusions:  Compared with nationally representative data, our study sample reported high rates of alcohol consumption at levels risky to health, illicit drug use and infrequent use of condoms. These results suggest that transient workers and their contacts would benefit from the targeted provision of harm‐reduction services, with a particular focus on sexual behaviour and alcohol and drug use.
Rural pharmacy in New Zealand: Effects of a compulsory externship on student perspectives and implications for workforce shortage
Authors: Capstick Stuart , Beresford Rosemary , Gray Andrew 
Published: May 2008

AbstractObjective:  To explore student perceptions of rural pharmacy practice, factors affecting interest in rural work and effects of an educational intervention designed to raise awareness of rural practice. Design:  Qualitative and quantitative survey questionnaire administered before and after a week‐long rural externship. Setting:  Undergraduate – rural pharmacy externship. Participants:  Third‐year Bachelor of Pharmacy undergraduate cohort (n = 123).Intervention:  Week‐long exposure to rural pharmacy practice Main outcome measures:  Rural/urban origin of students, interest in working in rural practice, views held of rural practice and towards externship. Results:  Rural‐origin students were significantly more likely to report they would consider working in rural practice prior to the intervention than urban‐origin students (77% rural origin versus 40% urban origin). The intervention significantly increased the overall proportion (48% pre‐versus 73% post‐externship), proportion of female students (48% pre versus 79% post‐externship) and proportion of urban‐origin students (38% pre‐versus 67% post‐externship) prepared to consider rural practice. Despite apprehension towards the externship, students reported overwhelmingly positive experiences of it. Negative aspects related mainly to travel and accommodation costs incurred. Conclusions:  This targeted, experiential intervention affected perceptions of rural practice in a positive direction among urban‐origin students by raising awareness and challenging their preconceptions of rural pharmacy practice. Further research is required to see whether this will affect recruitment and to investigate what appears to be a particular effect on female students.
Community perception of childhood drowning and its prevention measures in rural Bangladesh: A qualitative study
Authors: Rahman Aminur , Shafinaz Shumona , Linnan Michael , Rahman Fazlur 
Published: May 2008

AbstractObjectives:  To gain an in‐depth understanding of people's perception of causes and their concepts of prevention of childhood drowning in rural Bangladesh. Design:  A qualitative study and focus group discussion (FGD) was adopted. Setting:  A rural community in Bangladesh. Participants:  FGDs were conducted with mothers of children aged under 5 years, adolescent male and female students, fathers and local leaders. One FGD was conducted for each group. Out of 53 participants 25 were women. Results:  The respondents considered that children of 5–10 years are at risk of drowning. Ponds, ditches and canals were frequently mentioned locations of drowning. Most of the drownings were reported to occur around noon. For prevention of childhood drowning the participants suggested that the children should be constantly supervised, unwanted ditches should be filled in, ponds should be fenced and drowning prevention awareness in the community be increased by community leaders. They suggested that government should organise campaigns for preventing childhood drowning, promoting swimming instruction activities for children and motivating communities to fence ponds. Conclusions:  People interviewed in general know the causes of childhood drowning and its preventive measures, but they do not put their knowledge into preventative actions as they fail to recognise this as a major child survival issue and they are never reached with definite actions points to change the behaviours.