bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
The effects of chronic nitrogen fertilization on alpine tundra soil microbial communities: implications for carbon and nitrogen cycling
Authors: Nemergut Diana R. , Townsend Alan R. , Sattin Sarah R. , Freeman Kristen R. , Fierer Noah , Neff Jason C. , Bowman William D. , Schadt Christopher W. , Weintraub Michael N. , Schmidt Steven K. 
Published: September 2008

SummaryMany studies have shown that changes in nitrogen (N) availability affect primary productivity in a variety of terrestrial systems, but less is known about the effects of the changing N cycle on soil organic matter (SOM) decomposition. We used a variety of techniques to examine the effects of chronic N amendments on SOM chemistry and microbial community structure and function in an alpine tundra soil. We collected surface soil (0–5 cm) samples from five control and five long‐term N‐amended plots established and maintained at the Niwot Ridge Long‐term Ecological Research (LTER) site. Samples were bulked by treatment and all analyses were conducted on composite samples. The fungal community shifted in response to N amendments, with a decrease in the relative abundance of basidiomycetes. Bacterial community composition also shifted in the fertilized soil, with increases in the relative abundance of sequences related to the Bacteroidetes and Gemmatimonadetes, and decreases in the relative abundance of the Verrucomicrobia. We did not uncover any bacterial sequences that were closely related to known nitrifiers in either soil, but sequences related to archaeal nitrifiers were found in control soils. The ratio of fungi to bacteria did not change in the N‐amended soils, but the ratio of archaea to bacteria dropped from 20% to less than 1% in the N‐amended plots. Comparisons of aliphatic and aromatic carbon compounds, two broad categories of soil carbon compounds, revealed no between treatment differences. However, G‐lignins were found in higher relative abundance in the fertilized soils, while proteins were detected in lower relative abundance. Finally, the activities of two soil enzymes involved in N cycling changed in response to chronic N amendments. These results suggest that chronic N fertilization induces significant shifts in soil carbon dynamics that correspond to shifts in microbial community structure and function.
Soils of a Mediterranean hot spot of biodiversity and endemism (Sardinia, Tyrrhenian Islands) are inhabited by pan‐European, invasive species of Hypocrea/Trichoderma
Authors: Migheli Quirico , Balmas Virgilio , Komoñ‐Zelazowska Monika , Scherm Barbara , Fiori Stefano , Kopchinskiy Alexey G. , Kubicek Christian P. , Druzhinina Irina S. 
Published: September 2008

SummaryWe have used a Mediterranean hot spot of biodiversity (the Island of Sardinia) to investigate the impact of abiotic factors on the distribution of species of the common soil fungus Trichoderma. To this end, we isolated 482 strains of Hypocrea/Trichoderma from 15 soils comprising undisturbed and disturbed environments (forest, shrub lands and undisturbed or extensively grazed grass steppes respectively). Isolates were identified at the species level by the oligonucleotide BarCode for Hypocrea/Trichoderma (TrichOKEY), sequence similarity analysis (Trichoblast) and phylogenetic inferences. The majority of the isolates were positively identified as pan‐European and/or pan‐global Hypocrea/Trichoderma species from sections Trichoderma and Pachybasium, comprising H. lixii/T. harzianum, T. gamsii, T. spirale, T. velutinum, T. hamatum, H. koningii/T. koningii, H. virens/T. virens, T. tomentosum, H. semiorbis, H. viridescens/T. viridescens, H. atroviridis/T. atroviride, T. asperellum, H. koningiopsis/T. koningiopsis and Trichoderma sp. Vd2. Only one isolate represented a new, undescribed species belonging to the Harzianum–Catoptron Clade. Internal transcribed spacer sequence analysis revealed only one potentially endemic internal transcribed spacer 1 allele of T. hamatum. All other species exhibited genotypes that were already found in Eurasia or in other continents. Only few cases of correlation of species occurrence with abiotic factors were recorded. The data suggest a strong reduction of native Hypocrea/Trichoderma diversity, which was replaced by extensive invasion of species from Eurasia, Africa and the Pacific Basin.
The economic and workload impact of ‘backdoor’ prostate‐specific antigen screening on the UK National Health Service: a single‐centre experience
Authors: Chelladurai Arputharaj J. , Gunendran Thiru , Nicholson Caroline , Matanhelia Shyam S. , Blades Rosemary A. 
Published: September 2008

OBJECTIVETo determine the economic burden and additional cost on one hospital within the UK National Health Service secondary to prostate‐specific antigen screening by a private recruitment company for a clinical drug trial.PATIENTS AND METHODSData were reviewed from all patients who were excluded from the trial and referred across by the recruitment company between May 2004 and April 2005. The additional cost for all their investigation and treatment was calculated.RESULTSThere were 87 interventional procedures (transrectal prostate biopsy, radical prostatectomy and radical radiotherapy), 27 diagnostic scans (magnetic resonance Imaging and bone scan) and 240 additional outpatient visits (new and follow‐up) over the 1‐year period. The calculated cost was approximately £271 500.CONCLUSIONThis study highlights the significant increase in the workload and financial burden in one centre within the UK National Health Service. Many other hospitals are likely to be in a similar situation and the total cost to the health service will be much greater.
Preventive behaviour in adult offspring of Type 2 diabetic patients and its relationship to parental advice
Authors: Nishigaki M. , Kobayashi K. , Abe Y. , Seki N. , Yokomura T. , Yokoyama M. , Kazuma K. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractAims This study was conducted to investigate preventive behaviour of offspring at risk of Type 2 diabetes, particularly focusing on the relationship between patients’ behaviour of giving advice as parents.Methods This cross‐sectional study was based on a self‐reported questionnaire survey and was conducted at the diabetes clinic of one general hospital. Subjects were 164 pairs, comprising Type 2 diabetic patients ranging in age from 50 to 75 years and non‐diabetic offspring ranging in age from 20 to 50 years.Results Approximately half of patients’ offspring were engaged in preventive behaviour; 51.2% to prevent weight gain and 50.6% to have a healthy diet. The proportion of offspring taking regular exercise was significantly less (40.2%) than those attempting weight control and eating a healthy diet (P = 0.0039,P = 0.0035, respectively). One hundred and six (64.6%) patients advised their offspring to change their lifestyle habits, such as with diet or exercise, for diabetes prevention. However, preventive behaviours in offspring, including preventing weight gain, having a healthy diet and taking regular exercise, were not facilitated by parental advice (P = 0.27, 0.92, 0.61, respectively). The offspring regarded medical professionals or mass media as reliable information sources, but not the family. However, they received information about diabetes most frequently from their family.Conclusions Although more offspring practised preventive behaviour than expected, they were less likely to exercise than to change their diet or attempt to control their weight. Parental advice did not facilitate offspring preventive behaviour. Further research is needed to discover how to mediate links between parental advice and offspring preventive behaviour.
Children and young people with diabetes in Yorkshire: a population‐based clinical audit of patient data 2005/2006
Authors: McKinney P. A. , Feltbower R. G. , Stephenson C. R. , Reynolds C. ,   on behalf of the Yorkshire Paediatric Diabetes Special Interest Group
Published: September 2008

AbstractAims  To provide a population‐based clinical audit of children and young people with diabetes, reporting outcomes, including glycaemic control, for named individual units.Methods  Clinical audit data on care processes and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) were collected for 1742 children and young people treated in 16 paediatric units in Yorkshire, from January 2005 to March 2006. The Yorkshire Register of Diabetes in Children and Young People provided information technology support and validation that enhanced data quality. Multi‐level linear regression modelling investigated factors affecting glycaemic control.Results  An HbA1c measure was recorded for 91.6% of patients. The National Institute for Clinical Excellence‐recommended target level for HbA1c of < 7.5% was achieved for 14.7% of patients. HbA1c was positively associated with duration of diabetes and later age at diagnosis. Patients living in deprived areas had significantly poorer control compared with those from affluent areas. Significant between‐unit variation in HbA1c was not reflected by any association with unit size.Conclusions  Our population‐based clinical audit of children with diabetes is the product of an effective collaboration between those who deliver care and health services researchers. High levels of recording the key care process measuring diabetes control, compared with national figures, suggests collaboration has translated into improved services. The interesting association between poor diabetes control and higher deprivation is noteworthy and requires further investigation. Future audits require recording of clinical management and clinic structures, in addition to resources to record, assemble and analyse data.
Changes in transferrin are related to changes in insulin resistance: the SLIM study
Authors: Roumen C. , Feskens E. J. M. , Jansen E. H. J. M. , Saris W. H. M. , Blaak E. E. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractAims  To determine the effect of a lifestyle intervention on serum transferrin and ferritin levels and the relationship between changes in transferrin and ferritin and changes in glucose tolerance and insulin resistance.Methods  Randomized controlled lifestyle intervention directed at a healthy diet and increased physical activity in subjects with impaired glucose tolerance.Results  After 1 year, the change in ferritin levels in the intervention group as compared with the control group did not reach statistical significance (P = 0.06). Transferrin change was independently related to the change in homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and ferritin change was related to the change in 2‐h free fatty acids.Conclusions  Changes in insulin sensitivity and postprandial lipid metabolism are related to changes in iron metabolism.
Association between depression and concurrent Type 2 diabetes outcomes varies by diabetes regimen
Authors: Aikens J. E. , Perkins D. W. , Piette J. D. , Lipton B. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractAims  Although depression has weak associations with several Type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) outcomes, it is possible that these associations are concentrated within certain patient subgroups that are more vulnerable to their effects. This study tested the hypothesis that depression is related to glycaemic control and diabetes‐related quality of life (DQOL) in patients who are prescribed injected insulin, but not those on oral glucose‐lowering agents alone.Methods  Participants (103 on insulin, 155 on oral glucose‐lowering agents alone) with Type 2 DM were recruited from a large US healthcare system and underwent assessment of glycaemic control (glycated haemoglobin; HbA1c), medication adherence and diabetes self‐care behaviours, DQOL and depression (none, mild, moderate/severe).Results  There was a significant regimen × depression interaction on HbA1c (P = 0.002), such that depression was associated with HbA1c in patients using insulin (β = 0.35, P < 0.001) but not in patients using oral agents alone (β = –0.08, P = NS). There was a similar interaction when quality of life was analysed as an outcome (P = 0.002). Neither effect was mediated by regimen adherence.Conclusions  The generally weak association between depression and glycaemic control is concentrated among patients who are prescribed insulin. Similarly, the association between depression and illness quality of life is strongest in patients prescribed insulin. Because this is not attributable to depression‐related adherence problems, psychophysiological mechanisms unique to this group ought to be carefully investigated. Clinicians might be especially vigilant for depression in Type 2 DM patients who use insulin and consider its potential impact upon their illness course.
New squatting test indices are useful for assessing baroreflex sensitivity in diabetes mellitus
Authors: Nakagawa M. , Shinohara T. , Anan F. , Yufu K. , Takahashi N. , Okada N. , Hara M. , Yoshimatsu H. , Saikawa T. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractAims  The heart rate (HR) responses after performance of the squatting and standing manoeuvre are thought to be a useful tool to assess autonomic neuropathy in diabetics. Our aim was to develop new simple squatting test indices and to analyse their applicability to the assessment of baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) in patients with diabetes.Methods  Twenty healthy volunteers (mean age 23.2 ± 3.8 years) and 51 patients with diabetes (mean age 55.9 ± 10.6 years) were enrolled in study 1 and study 2, respectively. Each subject stood for 3 min (basal period), then squatted down for 1 min (Sq) and stood up again for 1 min (St). In study 1, the squatting test was performed before and after pharmacological autonomic blockade. In study 2, we measured HR in each period and calculated the difference between basal HR and HRSq (ΔHRSq) and between HRSt and HRSq (ΔHRSt). BRS was also measured using the phenylephrine method in diabetic patients.Results  In healthy individuals during autonomic blockade, HR changes were mainly controlled by the vagal tone during squatting and by the sympathetic tone during standing. In diabetic patients, ΔHRSq and ΔHRSt positively correlated (r = 0.86, P < 0.0001) and both ΔHRSq and ΔHRSt significantly correlated with BRS (r = 0.66, P < 0.0001 and r = 0.61, P < 0.0001, respectively).Conclusions  The new squatting test indices provide useful information for assessing autonomic neuropathy and for identifying diabetic patients at high risk of cardiovascular events.
Long‐term weight loss and weight‐loss maintenance strategies
Authors: Rössner S. , Hammarstrand M. , Hemmingsson E. , Neovius M. , Johansson K. 
Published: September 2008

SummaryIt has been suggested that about 20% of subjects undergoing weight‐loss programmes can achieve a certain degree of long‐term success. At present, surgery remains the only method resulting in long‐term sustained weight loss, but access remains restricted. Hence it is important to analyse, in addition to pharmacotherapy, the methods to improve the effects of diet, exercise and behavioural modification. Since these techniques are less spectacular than others, there is a risk that their potential will be overlooked, in spite of the fact that they remain the main alternative for most subjects undergoing weight‐loss therapy. This review summarizes realistic treatment alternatives and also provides data from a day care treatment, a strategy not much reported in the literature. This is a standard treatment modality for diabetes but less common in obesity treatment.
Intake of calorically sweetened beverages and obesity
Authors: Olsen N. J. , Heitmann B. L. 
Published: September 2008

SummaryThe prevalence of obesity has increased in the past 30 years, and at the same time a steep increase in consumption of soft drinks has been seen. This paper reviews the literature for studies on associations between intake of calorically sweetened beverages and obesity, relative to adjustment for energy intake. Conclusions from previous reviews have been inconsistent, but some included many cross‐sectional studies or studies supported by sugar industry. A literature search was performed for prospective and experimental studies using Medline and Scirus. Fourteen prospective and five experimental studies were identified. The majority of the prospective studies found positive associations between intake of calorically sweetened beverages and obesity. Three experimental studies found positive effects of calorically sweetened beverages and subsequent changes in body fat. Two experimental studies did not find effects. Eight prospective studies adjusted for energy intake. Seven of these studies reported associations that were essentially similar before and after energy adjustment. In conclusion, a high intake of calorically sweetened beverages can be regarded as a determinant for obesity. However, there seems to be no support that the association between intake of calorically sweetened beverages and obesity is mediated via increased energy intake, and alternative biological explanations should be explored.
Ambulatory Setting for Peritoneal Dialysis Catheter Placement
Authors: Maya Ivan D. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractA modified fluoroscopic technique by adding ultrasound‐assistance ensuring entry into the abdominal cavity and avoiding the risk of epigastric artery injury under direct ultrasound visualization was recently published. This study demonstrated that the technique was minimally invasive and allowed for accurate assessment of entry into the abdominal cavity and avoidance of vascular injury. In the current analysis, we report the impact of this technique on hospital stay during a peritoneal dialysis (PD) catheter insertion. Twenty‐six PD catheters have been placed on an outpatient basis using this technique. All catheter insertions were successful. Patients were discharge on the same day of the procedure. There were no procedure‐related complication or related to short hospital stay. An ambulatory setting allows for a short hospital stay without compromising patient care. This brief paper explains in detail the pre, peri and postoperative period and follow‐up.
Percutaneous Fluoroscopically Guided Placement of Peritoneal Dialysis Catheters—A 10‐Year Experience
Authors: Vaux Emma C. , Torrie Peter H. , Barker Lindsey C. , Naik Ramesh B. , Gibson Matthew R. 
Published: September 2008

AbstractPeritoneal dialysis (PD) catheters maybe inserted surgically or percutaneously. Since 1997, 209 patients in our unit have had a PD catheter inserted percutaneously with fluoroscopic guidance. Data on all these PD catheters were collected prospectively on a PROTON computer database. 5/209 (2.4%) insertion attempts were abandoned. 204 catheters were successfully placed giving an initial technical success of 97.6%. 200/204 catheters were used for dialysis. 13/200 (6.5%) catheters developed early exit site infections; 12/13 were successfully treated and dialysis proceeded uneventfully. 3/200 (1.5%) catheters developed early peritonitis; 1/3 was removed as antibiotic treatment was unsuccessful. 10/200 (5%) catheters developed an early leak; 2/10 did not resolve with conservative therapy and were removed. 14/200 (7%) catheters did not allow sufficient fluid entry for PD; all 14 had migrated out of the pelvis and were removed. In total, 18/200 (9%) catheters were removed in the first 2 months due to these early complications. The remaining 182/200 (91%) were fully functional for PD. Technical survival (excluding patient death with a functioning catheter and successful kidney transplantation) at 1, 2, and 5 years was 77%, 61%, and 31%, respectively. Our 10 year experience of PD catheters inserted percutaneously with fluoroscopic guidance demonstrates a high technical success and a low complication rate. The data presented may be used as the standard for this technique.
A Modified Supraclavicular Approach for Central Venous Catheterization by Manipulation of Ventilation in Ventilated Patients
Authors: Chen Pin‐Tarng , Yen Chia‐Rong , Wang Chao‐Chun , Sung Chun‐Sung , Chang Wen‐Kuei , Chan Kwok‐Hon 
Published: September 2008

AbstractBackground:  Because of overuse and multiple implantations of hemodialysis catheters through internal jugular or subclavian vein (SCV) in patients with chronic hemodialysis, these veins often become stenotic or occlude, therefore necessitating alternative access. We introduce a new technique in ventilated patients for placement of tunneled cuffed chronic hemodialysis catheter: modified supraclavicular approach by cease of ventilation.Methods:  Patients who received implantation of the tunneled cuffed chronic hemodialysis catheters by supraclavicular approach were collected from February 2003 to July 2005. Right subclavian, right innominate or left SCVs were accessed through the supraclavicular approach for catheter insertion. The procedures were performed by certificated anesthesiologists. The following parameters were recorded: co‐morbidities, laboratory examinations before the procedure, method for catheterization, duration of procedure, complications related to catheterization and long‐term outcome of hemodialysis catheters.Results:  Eleven catheters were inserted in nine patients (two patients received twice) by supraclavicular approach during this period. All patients were mechanically ventilated and these catheters (seven at right and four at left) were implanted using the modified supraclavicular approach with lung deflation during venipuncture, advance of guidewire, and insertion of catheter. There were no procedural complications. The average duration of whole procedure was 36.6 minutes (30–45  minutes) and the mean catheter survival days were 62.1 days (13–152 days). The estimated duration was <1 minute of each period of lung deflation. There were no desaturation or pneumothorax during the whole procedure.Conclusion:  The modified supraclavicular approach with lung deflation for tunneled cuffed chronic hemodialysis catheter in ventilated patients is at least as effective as traditional approach and can be easily performed by surgeons as well as experienced physicians. Based on the results, this simplified technique using lung deflation may be particularly useful to decrease procedural complications.
Locking Solutions for Hemodialysis Catheters; Heparin and Citrate—A Position Paper by ASDIN
Authors: Moran John E. , Ash Stephen R. ,   the Clinical Practice Committee
Published: September 2008

AbstractThere is wide variation in the use of solutions to “lock” or fill tunneled central venous catheters for dialysis. Some centers use undiluted heparin concentrations ranging from 1000 to 10,000 U/ml and other centers place from 1000 to 10,000 U per lumen. Based on available evidence, it appears that heparin 1000 U/ml, or 4% sodium citrate are suitable choices for lock solution to maintain patency of tunneled central venous catheters for dialysis. Risks from systemic anticoagulation are lower with heparin 1000 U/ml and 4% sodium citrate, compared with higher concentrations of heparin (5000 and 10,000 U/ml). The need for use of tissue plasminogen activator for maintaining catheter patency is increased by using heparin lock at 1000 U/ml, vs. higher concentrations. Higher concentrations of heparin lock should be reserved for patients who have evidence of catheter occlusion or thrombosis when heparin is used at 1000 U/ml. Similar choices for lock solution are sensible for acute hemodialysis catheters. When heparin is used for catheter lock, the injected volume should not exceed the internal volume of the catheter.