bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Short-Term Fluctuations of Sugar Beet Damping-Off by Pythium ultimum in Relation to Changes in Bacterial Communities After Organic Amendments to Two Soils
Authors: He Miaomiao , Tian Guangming , Semenov Alexander M. , van Bruggen Ariena H. C.
Published: December 2011

Previously, oscillations in beet seedling damping-off by Pythium ultimum, measured as area under the disease progress curve (AUDPC), were demonstrated after incorporation of organic materials into organic and conventional soils. These periodic fluctuations of P. ultimum infections were cross-correlated with oscillations of copiotrophic CFU at lags of 2 to 4 days. For this article, we investigated whether bacterial communities and microbial activities fluctuated after a disturbance from incorporation of organic materials, and whether these fluctuations were linked to the short-term oscillations in AUDPC of beet seedling damping-off and bacterial populations (CFU) in soil. Soil microbial communities studied by polymerase chain reaction-DGGE analysis of 16S DNA after isolation of total DNA from soil and microbial activities measured as CO2 emission rates were monitored daily for 14 days after addition of grass-clover (GC) or composted manure (CM) into organic versus conventional soils. Similar to our previous findings, AUDPC and density of copiotrophic bacteria oscillated with time. Fluctuations in species richness (S), Shannon diversity index (H), and individual amplicons on DGGE gels were also detected. Oscillations in AUDPC were positively cross-correlated with copiotrophic CFU in all soils. Oscillations in AUDPC were also positively cross-correlated with 19 to 35% of the high-intensity DNA fragments in soils amended with GC but only 2 to 3% of these fragments in CM-amended soils. AUDPC values were negatively cross-correlated with 13 to 17% of the amplicons with low average intensities in CM-amended soils, which were not correlated with densities of copiotrophic CFU. CO2 emission rates had remarkable variations in the initial 7 days after either of the soil amendments but were not associated with daily changes in AUDPC. The results suggest that infection by P. ultimum is hampered by competition from culturable copiotrophic bacteria and some high-intensity DGGE amplicons, because AUDPC is cross-correlated with these variables at lags of 1 to 4 days. However, negative cross-correlations with low-intensity DNA fragments indicate that P. ultimum infection could also be suppressed by antagonistic bacteria with low densities that may be nonculturable species, especially in CM amended soil. The organic soil generally had lower AUDPC values, higher bacterial diversity, and negative cross-correlations between AUDPC and low-intensity DNA fragments (after CM amendment), indicating that specific bacteria that do not attain high densities may contribute to P. ultimum suppression in organic soils.
A cockroach that jumps
Authors: Picker Mike , Colville Jonathan F. , Burrows Malcolm
Published: December 2011

We report on a newly discovered cockroach (Saltoblattella montistabularis) from South Africa, which jumps and therefore differs from all other extant cockroaches that have a scuttling locomotion. In its natural shrubland habitat, jumping and hopping accounted for 71 per cent of locomotory activity. Jumps are powered by rapid and synchronous extension of the hind legs that are twice the length of the other legs and make up 10 per cent of the body weight. In high-speed images of the best jumps the body was accelerated in 10 ms to a take-off velocity of 2.1 m s−1so that the cockroach experienced the equivalent of 23 times gravity while leaping a forward distance of 48 times its body length. Such jumps required 38 µJ of energy, a power output of 3.4 mW and exerted a ground reaction force through both hind legs of 4 mN. The large hind legs have grooved femora into which the tibiae engage fully in advance of a jump, and have resilin, an elastic protein, at the femoro-tibial joint. The extensor tibiae muscles contracted for 224 ms before the hind legs moved, indicating that energy must be stored and then released suddenly in a catapult action to propel a jump. Overall, the jumping mechanisms and anatomical features show remarkable convergence with those of grasshoppers with whom they share their habitat and which they rival in jumping performance.
Prey detection in a cruising copepod
Authors: Kjellerup Sanne , Kiørboe Thomas
Published: December 2011

Small cruising zooplankton depend on remote prey detection and active prey capture for efficient feeding. Direct, passive interception of prey is inherently very inefficient at low Reynolds numbers because the viscous boundary layer surrounding the approaching predator will push away potential prey. Yet, direct interception has been proposed to explain how rapidly cruising, blind copepods feed on non-motile phytoplankton prey. Here, we demonstrate a novel mechanism for prey detection in a cruising copepod, and describe how motile and non-motile prey are discovered by hydromechanical and tactile or, likely, chemical cues, respectively.
Contributions of talin-1 to glioma cell–matrix tensional homeostasis
Authors: Sen Shamik , Ng Win Pin , Kumar Sanjay
Published: December 2011

The ability of cells to adapt their mechanical properties to those of the surrounding microenvironment (tensional homeostasis) has been implicated in the progression of a variety of solid tumours, including the brain tumour glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). GBM tumour cells are highly sensitive to extracellular matrix (ECM) stiffness and overexpress a variety of focal adhesion proteins, such as talin. While talin has been shown to play critical early roles in integrin-based force-sensing in non-tumour cells, it remains unclear whether this protein contributes to tensional homeostasis in GBM cells. Here, we investigate the role of the talin isoform talin-1 in enabling human GBM cells to adapt to ECM stiffness. We show that human GBM cells express talin-1, and we use RNA interference to suppress talin-1 expression without affecting levels of talin-2, vinculin or phosphorylated focal adhesion kinase. Knockdown of talin-1 strongly reduces both cell spreading area and random migration speed but does not significantly affect overall focal adhesion size distributions. Most strikingly, atomic force microscopy indentation reveals that talin-1 suppression compromises adaptation of cell stiffness to changes in ECM stiffness. Together, these data support a role for talin-1 in the maintenance of tensional homeostasis in GBM and suggest a functional role for enriched talin expression in this tumour.
Metallic ions as therapeutic agents in tissue engineering scaffolds: an overview of their biological applications and strategies for new developments
Authors: Mouriño Viviana , Cattalini Juan Pablo , Boccaccini Aldo R.
Published: December 2011

This article provides an overview on the application of metallic ions in the fields of regenerative medicine and tissue engineering, focusing on their therapeutic applications and the need to design strategies for controlling the release of loaded ions from biomaterial scaffolds. A detailed summary of relevant metallic ions with potential use in tissue engineering approaches is presented. Remaining challenges in the field and directions for future research efforts with focus on the key variables needed to be taken into account when considering the controlled release of metallic ions in tissue engineering therapeutics are also highlighted.
Metabolic cold adaptation in fishes occurs at the level of whole animal, mitochondria and enzyme
Authors: White Craig R. , Alton Lesley A. , Frappell Peter B.
Published: December 2011

Metabolic cold adaptation (MCA), the hypothesis that species from cold climates have relatively higher metabolic rates than those from warm climates, was first proposed nearly 100 years ago and remains one of the most controversial hypotheses in physiological ecology. In the present study, we test the MCA hypothesis in fishes at the level of whole animal, mitochondria and enzyme. In support of the MCA hypothesis, we find that when normalized to a common temperature, species with ranges that extend to high latitude (cooler climates) have high aerobic enzyme (citrate synthase) activity, high rates of mitochondrial respiration and high standard metabolic rates. Metabolic compensation for the global temperature gradient is not complete however, so when measured at their habitat temperature species from high latitude have lower absolute rates of metabolism than species from low latitudes. Evolutionary adaptation and thermal plasticity are therefore insufficient to completely overcome the acute thermodynamic effects of temperature, at least in fishes.
Histone deacetylase 3 is an epigenomic brake in macrophage alternative activation
Authors: Mullican Shannon E. , Gaddis Christine A. , Alenghat Theresa , Nair Meera G. , Giacomin Paul R. , Everett Logan J. , Feng Dan , Steger David J. , Schug Jonathan , Artis David , Lazar Mitchell A.
Published: December 2011

Macrophages, a key cellular component of inflammation, become functionally polarized in a signal- and context-specific manner. Th2 cytokines such as interleukin 4 (IL-4) polarize macrophages to a state of alternative activation that limits inflammation and promotes wound healing. Alternative activation is mediated by a transcriptional program that is influenced by epigenomic modifications, including histone acetylation. Here we report that macrophages lacking histone deacetylase 3 (HDAC3) display a polarization phenotype similar to IL-4-induced alternative activation and, furthermore, are hyperresponsive to IL-4 stimulation. Throughout the macrophage genome, HDAC3 deacetylates histone tails at regulatory regions, leading to repression of many IL-4-regulated genes characteristic of alternative activation. Following exposure to Schistosoma mansoni eggs, a model of Th2 cytokine-mediated disease that is limited by alternative activation, pulmonary inflammation was ameliorated in mice lacking HDAC3 in macrophages. Thus, HDAC3 functions in alternative activation as a brake whose release could be of benefit in the treatment of multiple inflammatory diseases.
Core promoter-selective function of HMGA1 and Mediator in Initiator-dependent transcription
Authors: Xu Muyu , Sharma Priyanka , Pan Songqin , Malik Sohail , Roeder Robert G. , Martinez Ernest
Published: December 2011

The factors and mechanisms underlying the differential activity and regulation of eukaryotic RNA polymerase II on different types of core promoters have remained elusive. Here we show that the architectural factor HMGA1 and the Mediator coregulator complex cooperate to enhance basal transcription from core promoters containing both a TATA box and an Initiator (INR) element but not from “TATA-only” core promoters. INR-dependent activation by HMGA1 and Mediator requires the TATA-binding protein (TBP)-associated factors (TAFs) within the TFIID complex and counteracts negative regulators of TBP/TATA-dependent transcription such as NC2 and Topoisomerase I. HMGA1 interacts with TFIID and Mediator and is required for the synergy of TATA and INR elements in mammalian cells. Accordingly, natural HMGA1-activated genes in embryonic stem cells tend to have both TATA and INR elements in a synergistic configuration. Our results suggest a core promoter-specific regulation of Mediator and the basal transcription machinery by HMGA1.
Genus Enhydrobacter Staley et   al. 1987 should be recognized as a member of the family Rhodospirillaceae within the class Alphaproteobacteria
Authors: Kawamura Yoshiaki , Fujiwara Nagatoshi , Naka Takashi , Mitani Asako , Kubota Hiromi , Tomida Junko , Morita Yuji , Hitomi Jun
Published: December 2011

The genus Enhydrobacter, first reported as a member of the family Vibrionaceae, has been placed in the family Moraxellaceae, but as a genus incertae sedis in Bergey's Manual of Systematic Bacteriology 2nd edition. During our taxonomic investigation of Enhydrobacter‐like organisms, we observed that the 16S rRNA sequences of E.   aerosaccus‐type strain versions NCIMB 12535T, ATCC 27094 T and CCUG 58314T were very different from the accessible data (accession no. AJ550856). Phylogenetic analysis of our 16S rRNA sequence data revealed that these organisms were located within the family Rhodospirillaceae. The genera Inquilinus, Oceanibaculum, Skermanella and Nisaea were closely related (sequence similarities were 88.3∼87.0%), but Enhydrobacter could be distinguished from these genera by growth characteristics, fatty acid profiles (C19:0 cyclo ω8c; 38.4% C18:1ω7c; 32.2%, and C16:0; 8.9% were major components), in being non‐flagellated, and differing in enzymatic activities, including trypsin and β‐glucosidase. From these data, we conclude that the genus Enhydrobacter should be recognized as an independent genus of the family Rhodospirillaceae within the class Alphaproteobacteria.
Development of a sensitive rRNA‐targeted reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction for detection of Vibrio cholerae/mimicus, V. parahaemolyticus/alginolyticus and Campylobacter jejuni/coli
Authors: Kurakawa Takashi , Kubota Hiroyuki , Tsuji Hirokazu , Matsuda Kazunori , Asahara Takashi , Takahashi Takuya , Ramamurthy Thandavarayan , Hamabata Takashi , Takahashi Eizo , Miyoshi Shin‐ichi , Okamoto Keinosuke , Mukhopadhyay Asish K. , Takeda Yoshifumi , Nomoto Koji
Published: December 2011

A sensitive rRNA‐targeted reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) method was developed for detection of Vibrio cholerae/mimicus, V. parahaemolyticus/alginolyticus and Campylobacter jejuni/coli by using specific primers. Counts of the enteric pathogens spiked in human stools were quantified at the lower detection limit of 103 cells/g stool by RT‐qPCR, in marked contrast with conventional quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) at the detection limit of 105 to 106 cells/g stool. The bacterial counts determined by RT‐qPCR were almost equivalent to those determined by the culture method and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) during the course of in vitro culture. Bacterial rRNA in the stools was stable for at least 4 weeks when the stools were kept as the suspensions in RNA‐stabilizing agent, RNAlater®, even at 37oC. These data suggested that the rapid and high sensitive rRNA‐targeted RT‐qPCR was applicable for the accurate quantification of viable enteric pathogens, such as V. cholerae/mimicus, V. parahaemolyticus/alginolyticus and C. jejuni/coli.
Transcriptome analysis of Stagonospora nodorum: gene models, effectors, metabolism and pantothenate dispensability
Authors: IPCHO SIMON V. S. , HANE JAMES K. , ANTONI EVA A. , AHREN DAG , HENRISSAT BERNARD , FRIESEN TIMOTHY L. , SOLOMON PETER S. , OLIVER RICHARD P.
Published: December 2011

The wheat pathogen Stagonospora nodorum, causal organism of the wheat disease Stagonospora nodorum blotch, has emerged as a model for the Dothideomycetes, a large fungal taxon that includes many important plant pathogens. The initial annotation of the genome assembly included 16 586 nuclear gene models. These gene models were used to design a microarray that has been interrogated with labelled transcripts from six cDNA samples: four from infected wheat plants at time points spanning early infection to sporulation, and two time points taken from growth in artificial media. Positive signals of expression were obtained for 12 281 genes. This represents strong corroborative evidence of the validity of these gene models. Significantly differential expression between the various time points was observed. When infected samples were compared with axenic cultures, 2882 genes were expressed at a higher level in planta and 3630 were expressed more highly in vitro. Similar numbers were differentially expressed between different developmental stages. The earliest time points in planta were particularly enriched in differentially expressed genes. A disproportionate number of the early expressed gene products were predicted to be secreted, but otherwise had no obvious sequence homology to functionally characterized genes. These genes are candidate necrotrophic effectors. We have focused attention on genes for carbohydrate metabolism and the specific biosynthetic pathways active during growth in planta. The analysis points to a very dynamic adjustment of metabolism during infection. Functional analysis of a gene in the coenzyme A biosynthetic pathway showed that the enzyme was dispensable for growth, indicating that a precursor is supplied by the plant.
Noncoeliac enteropathy: the differential diagnosis of villous atrophy in contemporary clinical practice
Authors: Pallav K. , Leffler D. A. , Tariq S. , Kabbani T. , Hansen J. , Peer A. , Bhansali A. , Najarian R. , Kelly C. P.
Published: December 2011

Background  Duodenal villous atrophy (DVA) is a key diagnostic finding in coeliac disease (CD). However, the differential diagnosis for this finding is broad.

Aim  To identify conditions causing noncoeliac enteropathy (NCE) with villous atrophy and methods to differentiate between CD and NCE in clinical practice.

Methods  Through record review we identified patients with DVA due to conditions other than CD. Patient demographics, clinical features and relevant investigations were compared with CD patients. Rates of CD misdiagnosis, and response to treatments were recorded.

Results  Thirty cases of NCE were identified with ten different aetiologies. Unspecified immune‐mediated enteropathy was the most common aetiology; affecting 10 patients. Gastrointestinal symptoms were more common in NCE than those in CD patients (P < 0.01). Twenty of the 24 NCE patients tested were HLA‐DQ2/DQ8 negative. Twenty‐six NCE patients were negative for IgA tissue transglutaminase (tTG) (P = 0.0001). Intraepithelial lymphocytosis was absent in 10 (33.3%) patients. Twenty‐one NCE patients initially misdiagnosed with CD and one with gluten intolerance were prescribed a gluten free diet (GFD). Fifteen of 22 had repeat biopsy and none showed histological improvement.

Conclusions  Although coeliac disease is the most common cause of DVA, noncoeliac enteropathy is not rare and may easily be mistaken for coeliac disease. Noncoeliac enteropathy is suggested by a normal initial tTG (87%), lack of intraepithelial lymphocytosis on biopsy, and lack of histological response to a gluten free diet. Subjective response to gluten free diet has poor predictive value for coeliac disease. Noncoeliac enteropathy can often be confirmed by negative HLA‐DQ2/DQ8 testing and targeted investigations can ascertain a definitive aetiology in most cases.
Rituximab plus HyperCVAD alternating with high dose cytarabine and methotrexate for the initial treatment of patients with mantle cell lymphoma, a multicentre trial from Gruppo Italiano Studio Linfomi
Authors: Merli Francesco , Luminari Stefano , Ilariucci Fiorella , Petrini Mario , Visco Carlo , Ambrosetti Achille , Stelitano Caterina , Caracciolo Francesco , Di Renzo Nicola , Angrilli Francesco , Carella Angelo M. , Capodanno Isabella , Barbolini Elisa , Galimberti Sara , Federico Massimo
Published: December 2011

This study investigated the clinical activity and toxicity of R‐HCVAD‐AM [rituximab plus HyperCVAD (R‐HCVAD) alternating with high‐dose cytarabine and methotrexate (AM)] in patients with newly diagnosed Mantle Cell Lymphoma (MCL). Patients aged ≤70 years with confirmed MCL received four alternating cycles each of R‐HCVAD and AM. Patients who obtained a partial response proceeded to autologous stem cell transplant. Sixty‐three patients were enrolled and 60 were fully eligible. Median age was 57 years (22–66); 60%, 33% and 7% were classified at low (L)‐, intermediate (I)‐ or high (H)‐risk, respectively, according to the MCL International Prognostic Index (MIPI). Only 22 patients (37%) completed the four cycles and three patients died during therapy. Overall response and complete response rates were 83% and 72% respectively. After a median follow‐up of 46 months (range 1–72) the estimated 5‐year overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival rates were 73% [95% confidence interval (CI) 59–83%], and 61% (95%CI 45–73%) respectively. MIPI maintained the prognostic value with an estimated 5‐year OS of 89%, 80% and 24% for L, I, and H groups respectively (P < 0·001). This multicentre study confirms that R‐HCVAD‐AM is an active regimen for the initial treatment of patients with MCL, but is associated with significant toxicity.
Downgrading as a counterstrategy: a case study in child welfare
Authors: van Nijnatten Carolus
Published: December 2011

Child welfare conversations in cases of suspected sexual child abuse are often slow and complex processes in which professionals and clients proceed cautiously. These conversations may best be considered as negotiations between professionals aiming at classifying clients in or out of problem categories, and clients distancing themselves from these categories or downgrading them. In a case study of a conversation between a child welfare worker and a 15‐year‐old boy who is the likely victim of sexual abuse by his stepfather, this process is demonstrated by an interactional analysis. It is shown that the client is not co‐operating in a co‐operative way.
Subarctic and alpine tree line dynamics during the last 400 years in north‐western and central Canada
Authors: Mamet Steven D. , Kershaw G. Peter
Published: December 2011

Aim  The objectives of this study were to: (1) identify episodes of establishment and mortality of young and mature trees at several sites at the alpine tree line in the western Northwest Territories and the latitudinal tree line in northern Manitoba; (2) infer changes in the structure and location of the tree line from patterns of establishment; (3) evaluate any relationship between these changes and climate; and (4) investigate sources of variability between sampling sites and study areas.

Location  Taiga Cordillera of the western Mackenzie Mountains in the Northwest Territories, and the western Hudson Bay Lowlands in northern Manitoba, Canada.

Methods  Recent tree line dynamics were examined at six climatically similar sites: three in the western Mackenzie Mountains and three around Churchill, Manitoba. Dendroecological techniques were employed to construct static age distributions of species present at each site. Static age structures, residuals from modelled age distributions, and reconstructions of dynamic stand density were used to identify patterns of establishment and mortality and to compare these to changes in climate.

Results  Tree line locations advanced and stand density increased during the early‐to‐mid‐20th century around Churchill, although responses were not uniform across sites or species. Results were less conclusive in the Mackenzie Mountains, although the tree line probably advanced during the late 18th century, and stand infilling occurred during the mid‐20th century. Correlation analyses with temperature suggest that conditions during establishment and particularly during recruitment are crucial for controlling tree line dynamics.

Main conclusions  Tree line advance and stand infilling have continued to the present at Churchill, while the tree line has stagnated in the western Mackenzie Mountains. The results of this study indicate that site‐ and species‐specific responses play a large role in determining the tree line response at multiple scales, illustrating the complexity of tree line dynamics in the context of a changing climate.
The Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria Attitude Questionnaire: validity and understanding of responsibility for infection control in Swedish registered district, haematology and infection nurses
Authors: Lindberg Maria , Skytt Bernice , Högman Marieann , Carlsson Marianne
Published: December 2011

Aim.  To assess the discriminative and construct validity of the Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria Attitude Questionnaire and to study registered nurses’ knowledge of, behaviour toward and emotional responses to patients with multidrug‐resistant bacteria in relation to how they understand their own, managers’ and politicians’ responsibility for adherence to preventive measures for infection control.

Background.  Multidrug‐resistant organisms are a global problem and an essential topic in healthcare regarding patient safety improvement.

Design.  Descriptive and correlational cross‐sectional survey.

Method.  Data were collected in a non‐random sample consisting of 397 registered nurses; district, haematology or infection registered nurses. One‐way analysis of variance and independent t‐tests were used for comparisons and a principal component analysis was performed.

Results.  Discriminative and construct validity were supported, as the infection registered nurses generally had higher scores on knowledge, behaviour and emotional response, compared with district registered nurses and haematology registered nurses and the three‐factor solution was confirmed. Registered nurses with higher scores on knowledge and emotional response attributed greater responsibility to themselves and to politicians. The Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria Attitude Questionnaire was translated using a forward‐back translation process.

Conclusion.  The questionnaire has adequate psychometric properties. Insufficient knowledge of, behaviour toward and emotional response to patients with multidrug‐resistant bacteria were described, but the registered nurses did estimate their own responsibility for adherence to preventive measures for infection control as being great or very great.

Relevance to clinical practice.  There is a considerable need to improve knowledge, behaviour and emotional response regarding infection prevention measures among healthcare workers. The hospital management are responsible for such improvements and the Multidrug‐Resistant Bacteria Attitude Questionnaire is useful in identifying such needs, as it has adequate psychometric properties and is able to discriminate between groups. Evaluation among healthcare workers may indicate where to situate additional training, as this is of clinical significance for safe care.
Documentation of postoperative pain in the neonatal brachial plexus palsy population
Authors: Lippert William C , Miller Melissa A , Lippert Andrew M , Mehlman Charles T
Published: December 2011

Aims and objectives.  To assess postoperative pain management in neonatal brachial plexus palsy children who underwent a primary nerve repair, release only and/or a release and transfer procedure.

Background.  Previous studies have noted pain management inadequacies in postoperative pain management in certain paediatric populations. However, this is the first study to focus on postoperative pain management in this particular population.

Methods.  Seventy‐five patients, who underwent a primary nerve repair, release only and/or a release and transfer procedures at our institution, were reviewed. Postoperative pain management was assessed on a patient and drug administration level through appropriate pain scale use; appropriate dosage for the medication prescribed; appropriate reassessment of pain following medication administration; and complications leading to a longer hospital stay.

Results.  Based on our institution’s guidelines following drug administration, 64 patients were not appropriately reassessed for pain. Based on the drug’s duration following drug administration, 40 patients were not appropriately reassessed for pain. Twenty‐eight per cent of all medication administrations were not properly reassessed for pain based on the drug’s duration and 62% of the time based on our institution’s guidelines. Fifty per cent of all medication administrations were not properly dosed and 51 patients were not appropriately dosed at least once during their hospital stay. Pain scales were documented incorrectly 20% of the time and administered improperly to 13 patients.

Conclusions.  Opportunities for improvement in postoperative pain management in the paediatric population – particularly those with neonatal brachial plexus palsy – exist.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Findings from this study demonstrate that healthcare professionals may have (1) insufficient knowledge regarding pain and/or (2) inadequate direction and guidance to appropriately assess and document pain in the paediatric population. Improvements for these individual healthcare professionals and clinical settings are needed to overcome postoperative pain management issues in the future.
Examining the breastfeeding support resources of the public health nursing services in Ireland
Authors: Mulcahy Helen , Phelan Agnes , Corcoran Paul , Leahy‐Warren Patricia
Published: December 2011

Aims and objectives.  The aim of the study was to review breastfeeding support provided by Public Health Nurses in Ireland. The objectives were to identify the availability of appropriate guiding policies, educational preparation, attitude of Public Health Nurses and the availability and use of other supportive services.

Background.  Breastfeeding rates in Ireland are among the lowest in Europe. The main source of formal support for breastfeeding mothers in the community in Ireland is from Public Health Nurses who can make referral to other non‐statutory resources. The nature of this support is determined by policies guiding clinical practice and education that increases breastfeeding confidence and competence of all personnel. Consequently, an assessment of breastfeeding resources requires an analysis of all these variables.

Design.  A large quantitative, cross‐sectional study was conducted, involving Public Health Nurses and mothers. This paper represents the results from the perspective of Public Health Nurses.

Method.  Directors of Public Health Nursing (n = 24) and Public Health Nurses (n = 204) completed self‐report questionnaires by mail and online. Data were analysed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences and reported using descriptive and inferential statistics.

Results.  Public Health Nurses are well educated to support breastfeeding and have a positive attitude and a high degree of self‐assessed confidence and competence. A wide variety of non‐statutory support exists for breastfeeding but is not always used to their full potential.

Conclusion.  Standardising educational requirements for Public Health Nurses in supporting breastfeeding is an area that requires attention. Ultimately, service delivery in relation to supporting breastfeeding mothers would benefit from being more timely and responsive.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Awareness of support resources is necessary for Public Health Nurses to make appropriate referrals for breastfeeding mothers. Furthermore, Directors of Public Health Nursing need to encourage the breastfeeding supportive role of Public Health Nurses and facilitate continuing professional development.
Influences of Exercise and Training on the Circulating Concentration of Prolactin in Humans
Authors: Rojas Vega S. , Hollmann W. , Strüder H. K.
Published: December 2011

Physical activity has an impact on several endocrine functions. During exercise, certain endocrine adjustments are required to maintain the homeostasis. It is well known that, depending on the intensity and duration, exercise stimulates the release of the hormone prolactin (PRL). After the cessation of acute exercise, this effect persist and continues during the recovery period. Chronic exercise can affect the PRL basal concentration and/or the PRL response to acute exercise. The main functions of PRL are associated with the maintenance of homeostasis and processes of reproduction. A role for PRL also has been recognised as an important regulator of cellular proliferation. The present review examines the exercise‐induced acute or adaptive responses of PRL secretion. It is also hypothesised that increased concentrations of PRL during exercise could play an important role for neuroplasticity as a result of involvement of the hormone in the neurogenesis in subventricular zone of the adult brain.
Effect of complete denture wearing on deglutition time: a cine‐magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: GOKCE H. S. , GOKCE S. M. , AKIN E. , BULAKBASI N. , AKYOL M.
Published: December 2011

Summary  Purpose of the study was to evaluate the effect of complete denture wearing on deglutition time (DT), hyoid bone and larynx movements in edentulous patients with real‐time balanced turbo field echo cine‐magnetic resonance imaging. Subjects were examined by cine‐magnetic resonance imaging in supine position during swallowing water. Two sets of images for 23 edentulous (with/without wearing complete dentures) and one for 23 dentulous patients were obtained. Radiographic outputs representing three consecutive deglutition stages (oral, pharyngeal and oesophageal) were provided to perform measurements. Deglutition time significantly increased when edentulous patients wore their dentures (mean 0·75 s increased to 1·17 s), whereas dentulous patients’ DT was about 0·91 s (P ≤ 0.05). The duration of deglutition is crucial because prolonged pharyngeal transit times increases the risk of aspiration. Within the limitations of the study, complete denture wearing could increase the shortened DT of the edentulous patients.
Arabidopsis thalianaTERMINAL FLOWER2 is involved in light‐controlled signalling during seedling photomorphogenesis
Authors: VALDÉS ANA ELISA , RIZZARDI KRISTINA , JOHANNESSON HENRIK , PARA ALESSIA , SUNDÅS‐LARSSON ANNIKA , LANDBERG KATARINA
Published: December 2011

Plants respond to changes in the environment by altering their growth pattern. Light is one of the most important environmental cues and affects plants throughout the life cycle. It is perceived by photoreceptors such as phytochromes that absorb light of red and far‐red wavelengths and control, for example, seedling de‐etiolation, chlorophyll biosynthesis and shade avoidance response. We report that theterminal flower2(tfl2) mutant, carrying a mutation in theArabidopsis thaliana HETEROCHROMATIN PROTEIN1homolog, functions in negative regulation of phytochrome dependent light signalling.tfl2shows defects in both hypocotyl elongation and shade avoidance response. Double mutant analysis indicates that mutants of the red/far‐red light absorbing phytochrome family of plant photoreceptors,phyAandphyB, are epistatic totfl2in far‐red and red light, respectively. An overlap between genes regulated by light and by auxin has earlier been reported and, intfl2plants light‐dependent auxin‐regulated genes are misexpressed. Further, we show that TFL2 binds to IAA5 and IAA19 suggesting that TFL2 might be involved in regulation of phytochrome‐mediated light responses through auxin action.
Changes in stomatal conductance along grass blades reflect changes in leaf structure
Authors: OCHELTREE T. W. , NIPPERT J. B. , PRASAD P. V. V.
Published: December 2011

Identifying the consequences of grass blade morphology (long, narrow leaves) on the heterogeneity of gas exchange is fundamental to an understanding of the physiology of this growth form. We examined acropetal changes in anatomy, hydraulic conductivity and rates of gas exchange in five grass species (including C3 and C4 functional types). Both stomatal conductance and photosynthesis increased along all grass blades despite constant light availability. Hydraulic efficiency within the xylem remained constant along the leaf, but structural changes outside the xylem changed in concert with stomatal conductance. Stomatal density and stomatal pore index remained constant along grass blades but interveinal distance decreased acropetally resulting in a decreased path length for water movement from vascular bundle to stomate. The increase in stomatal conductance was correlated with the decreased path length through the leaf mesophyll. A strong correlation between the distance from vascular bundles to stomatal pores and stomatal conductance has been identified across species; our results suggest this relationship also exists within individual leaves.
Anaemia during pregnancy: impact on birth outcome and infant haemoglobin level during the first 18 months of life
Authors: Koura Ghislain K. , Ouedraogo Smaïla , Le Port Agnès , Watier Laurence , Cottrell Gilles , Guerra José , Choudat Isabelle , Rachas Antoine , Bouscaillou Julie , Massougbodji Achille , Garcia André
Published: December 2011

To determine the effect of maternal anaemia on pregnancy outcome and describe its impact on infant haemoglobin level in the first 18 months of life, we conducted a prospective study of 617 pregnant women and their children in Benin. Prevalence of maternal anaemia at delivery was 39.5%, and 61.1% of newborns were anaemic at birth. Maternal anaemia was not associated with low birth weight [OR = 1.2 (0.6–2.2)] or preterm birth [OR = 1.3 (0.7–2.4)], whereas the newborn’s anaemia was related to maternal anaemia [OR = 1.8 (1.2–2.5)]. There was no association between an infant’s haemoglobin level until 18 months and maternal anaemia. However, malaria attacks during follow‐up, male gender and sickle cell trait were all associated with a lower infant haemoglobin level until 18 months, whereas good infant feeding practices and a polygamous family were positively associated with a higher haemoglobin level during the first 18 months of life.
Epigenetic and genetic disturbance of the imprinted 11p15 region in Beckwith–Wiedemann and Silver–Russell syndromes
Authors: Demars J , Gicquel C
Published: December 2011

Demars J, Gicquel C. Epigenetic and genetic disturbance of the imprinted 11p15 region in Beckwith–Wiedemann and Silver–Russell syndromes.

Genomic imprinting is a particularly attractive example of epigenetic regulation leading to the parental‐origin‐specific expression of genes. In several ways, the 11p15 imprinted region is an exemplary model for regulation of genomic imprinting. The two imprinted domains are controlled by imprinting control regions (ICRs) which carry opposite germ line imprints and they are regulated by two major mechanisms of imprinting control. Dysregulation of 11p15 genomic imprinting results in two fetal growth disorders [Silver–Russell (SRS) and Beckwith–Wiedemann (BWS) syndromes], with opposite growth phenotypes. BWS and SRS result from abnormal imprinting involving either, both domains or only one of them, with ICR1 and ICR2 more often involved in SRS and BWS respectively. DNA methylation defects affecting ICR1 or ICR2 account for approximately 60% of SRS and BWS patients. Recent studies have identified new cis‐acting regulatory elements, as well as new trans‐acting factors involved in the regulation of 11p15 imprinting, therefore establishing new mechanisms of BWS and SRS. Those studies also showed that, apart of CTCF, other transcription factors, including factors of the pluripotency network, play a crucial role in the regulation of 11p15 genomic imprinting. Those new findings have direct consequences in molecular testing, risk assessment and genetic counseling of BWS and SRS patients.
HLA‐B*08:01:08– joining the fold of silent alpha‐1 proline mutations in HLA‐B
Authors: Schlahsa L. , Immenschuh S. , Eiz‐Vesper B. , Blasczyk R. , Figueiredo C.
Published: December 2011

The sequence of HLA‐B*08:01:08 differs from other HLA‐B*08:01 alleles by at least two synonymous nucleotide exchanges.
Cryopreservation of Cat Testicular Tissues: Effects of Storage Temperature, Freezing Protocols and Cryoprotective Agents
Authors: Thuwanut P , Chatdarong K
Published: December 2011

Contents

Cryopreservation of testicular tissue has become a part of gamete preservation in wild animal post‐mortem. Using domestic cats as a model for wild felids, this study aimed to (i) investigate the effect of temperature for testicular tissue storage on sperm quality; (ii) compare efficiency of freezing protocols; and (iii) evaluate properties of cryoprotective agents to protect testicular sperm quality. A pair of testes from each cat (n = 9) was cut into four pieces. Three randomly selected pieces were allocated to be (i) fresh controls; (ii) stored at 4°C for 24 h; and (iii) stored at room temperature (28°C) for 24 h. After storage, the testicular tissue from each group was cut into 10 small pieces. One piece was assigned to be a control while the others were assigned to three freezing protocols; −80°C (n = 3), vitrification (n = 3) or two‐step freezing (kept above liquid nitrogen vapour for 10 min and submerged in liquid nitrogen) (n = 3). Each of three pieces was frozen using dimethyl sulphoxide (DMSO), ethylene glycol (EG) or DMSO combined with EG. Sperm membrane (SYBR‐14/EthD‐1) and DNA (acridine orange) integrity were evaluated before and after cryopreservation. The storage of testicular tissue at room temperature decreased the percentage of sperm with intact membrane in fresh tissue (59.5 ± 30.5 vs 87.9 ± 7.0%, p < 0.05). DNA integrity was decreased after 24‐h storage either at 4°C or room temperature (p < 0.05). The two‐step freezing resulted in a higher percentage of sperm with intact plasma membrane than the other techniques. Dimethyl sulphoxide, EG and DMSO combined with EG provided similar protection for the sperm membrane and DNA from cryodamages. In conclusion, storage of testicular tissue at 4°C is necessary to maintain sperm membrane integrity during transportation of tissue for cryopreservation in the freezing laboratory. The results provide information for male gamete rescue in felid particularly when they die unexpectedly in the field where freezing facilities are not well equipped.
Getting BETTER: Breaking the ice and warming to the inclusion of sexuality in mental health nursing care
Authors: Quinn Chris , Happell Brenda
Published: December 2011

Discussing sexual issues with consumers is considered a nursing role, yet it is commonly avoided. Research suggests that sexual issues and difficulties are particularly evident in mental health settings, and failure to address these issues represents a significant gap in care and treatment. Specific models for raising sexual issues have been used in oncology and cardiac care settings to assist clinicians. A descriptive, exploratory study was conducted with mental health nurses from Queensland, Australia. The aim of this research was to explore whether a specific model, the BETTER model (bring up, explain, tell, time, educate, record) was useful in assisting mental health nurses in raising the topic of sexuality with consumers. In‐depth interviews explored participants' attitudes and experiences of discussing sexuality. Participants were introduced to the BETTER model, and were asked to trial the approach with consumers. They were then interviewed a second time. Two main themes emerged: greater awareness and becoming part of practice. Participants described a transformation of their practice from one of avoiding issues of sexuality with consumers, to a position of inclusion, which became embedded within practice. Participants did not tend to use the model in a structured way, and it appears that knowledge and awareness were more useful than the model itself.
Prognostic factors in a large multi‐institutional series of papillary renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Zucchi Alessandro , Novara Giacomo , Costantini Elisabetta , Antonelli Alessandro , Carini Marco , Carmignani Giorgio , Cosciani Cunico Sergio , Fontana Dario , Longo Nicola , Martignoni Guido , Minervini Andrea , Mirone Vincenzo , Porena Massimo , Roscigno Marco , Schiavina Riccardo , Simeone Claudio , Simonato Alchiede , Siracusano Salvatore , Terrone Carlo , Ficarra Vincenzo
Published: December 2011

Study Type – Prognosis cohort series (multi‐centre)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The relatively low prevalence of papillary RCC and the limited number of patients enrolled in most of the surgical series limit meaningful conclusions with respect to cancer‐related outcome and independent prognostic information.

Patients with papillary RCC have relatively a low risk of tumour recurrence and cancer‐related death after surgery. Pathological lymph node stage, presence of metastases and Fuhrman nuclear grade were the main independent predictors of cancer‐related outcomes, whereas only a non‐statistically significant trend was found for the 2009 pathological T stage.

OBJECTIVES

To investigate cancer‐related outcomes and prognostic factors of papillary renal cell carcinoma (pRCC) in a large multicentre data set.

Oncological outcome and prognostic factors of pRCC have been limitedly evaluated in comparison with the most common RCC subtype, clear cell RCC.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

From a multicentre retrospective database, including 5463 patients who were surgically treated for RCC at 16 Italian academic centres between 1995 and 2007, 577 patients with pRCC were identified.

Univariable and multivariable Cox regression models were performed to identify prognostic factors predictive of recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS) after surgery.

RESULTS

At a median (interquartile range) follow‐up of 39.2 (21.7–72) months, 81 (14%) patients had experienced disease progression and 63 (11%) patients had died from disease; the 5‐year RFS estimate was 85.5%.

In multivariable analysis, pathological N stage (pooled P < 0.001), M stage (hazard ratio, 2.9; P= 0.007) and Fuhrman nuclear grade (pooled P= 0.039) were all independent predictors of RFS; the 5‐year CSS estimate was 87.9%.

In Cox multivariable analysis, an independent predictive role was reconfirmed for mode of presentation (pooled P= 0.038), pathological N stage (pooled P < 0.001), M stage (hazard ratio, 2.4; P= 0.049) and Fuhrman nuclear grade (pooled P= 0.037).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with pRCC have a low risk of tumour recurrence and cancer‐related death after surgery.

Fuhrman nuclear grade was found to be a stronger predictor of both RFS and CSS, whereas only a non‐statistically significant trend was found for the 2009 pathological T stage.