bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of Host Physiology on the Development of Core Rot, Caused byAlternaria alternata, in Red Delicious Apples
Authors: Shtienberg D.
Published: May 2012

Alternaria alternata is the predominant fungus involved in moldy core and core rot of Red Delicious apples. The effects of environmental conditions during bloom on moldy core and core rot, and on the need for fungicide application, were examined in 10 experiments carried out in 2007. In untreated experimental plots, typical moldy core symptoms were very common, with relatively low variability (coefficient of variation: 22.2%) among experiments; core rot incidence ranged from 2 to 26% with large variability (coefficient of variation: 90.0%) among experiments. No evidence of prevailing environmental conditions during bloom affecting the development of moldy core or core rot was detected. No effect of fungicide application (a mixture of bromuconazole + captan three times a week at bloom) on moldy core or core rot was found. A random distribution of moldy core and an occasional aggregation of core rot in the orchards were indicated from Morisita's index of dispersion (Iδ). The hypothesis that core rot incidence is governed by host physiology and that yield load can be used as an indicator of trees' susceptibility was examined in a set of eight observations and four experiments. No correlation was found between tree yield load and moldy core, but core rot incidence was inversely related to yield load. Furthermore, irrespective of tree yield load, core rot was more abundant on large compared with small fruits. It is concluded that host physiology, rather than pathogen occurrence or environmental conditions at bloom stage, governs the development of core rot in Red Delicious apples caused by A. alternata in Israel.
Hantavirus structure – molecular interactions behind the scene
Authors: Hepojoki Jussi , Strandin Tomas , Lankinen Hilkka , Vaheri Antti
Published: May 2012

Viruses of the genus Hantavirus, carried and transmitted by rodents and insectivores, are the exception in the vector-borne virus family Bunyaviridae, since viruses of the other genera are transmitted via arthropods. The single-stranded, negative-sense, RNA genome of hantaviruses is trisegmented into small, medium and large (S, M and L) segments. The segments, respectively, encode three structural proteins: nucleocapsid (N) protein, two glycoproteins Gn and Gc and an RNA-dependent RNA-polymerase. The genome segments, encapsidated by the N protein to form ribonucleoproteins, are enclosed inside a lipid envelope that is decorated by spikes composed of Gn and Gc. The virion displays round or pleomorphic morphology with a diameter of roughly 120–160 nm depending on the detection method. This review focuses on the structural components of hantaviruses, their interactions, the mechanisms behind virion assembly and the interactions that maintain virion integrity. We attempt to summarize recent results on the virion structure and to suggest mechanisms on how the assembly is driven. We also compare hantaviruses to other bunyaviruses with known structure.
Gastrointestinal symptoms before and during menses in women with IBD
Authors: Bernstein M. T. , Graff L. A. , Targownik L. E. , Downing K. , Shafer L. A. , Rawsthorne P. , Bernstein C. N. , Avery L.
Published: May 2012

Background

It is believed that women with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) have heightened symptoms around their menses. However, there is little information regarding normative changes and which symptoms emerge in relation to menses.

Aim

To determine the relationship between gastrointestinal and other symptoms and menses in a population‐based cohort of women with IBD vs. healthy women.

Methods

Women enrolled in the University of Manitoba IBD Research Registry who were between 18 and 65 years were mailed a survey. A control group of adult women were recruited through out‐patient gynaecology clinics. Participants were asked to consider their menstrual periods in the recent several months and report on symptoms 1–5 days prior to and during the days of their menses.

Results

There were 151 premenopausal women with Crohn's disease (CD), 87 with ulcerative colitis (UC) and 156 premenopausal controls. Mean age of menses onset was similar in all three cohorts and the percentage in each group with regular menstrual periods was similar. Premenstrually, abdominal pain was less commonly reported in UC (36.8%) than CD (51%, P = 0.034) and controls (57.6%, P = 0.002). Premenstrually, and during menses diarrhoea was more commonly reported in CD (47.7% and 59.6% respectively) than UC (26.4% P = 0.001 and 42.5%, P = 0.01 respectively) and controls (24.4%, P < 0.0001 and 28.2%, P < 0.0001 respectively). Premenstrually, women with CD (46%) vs. UC (26%) were more likely to report worsening of their IBD symptoms (P = 0.0007), but there was no difference between CD (47%) and UC (39%) for reporting worsening during menses (P = 0.24).

Conclusions

Compared to healthy women, women with IBD had similar symptom experiences premenstrually, except that those with CD were more likely to have increased diarrhoea premenstrually. During menses, women with CD or UC were more likely to experience diarrhoea than healthy controls.
Prescribing and partnership with patients
Authors: Bond Christine , Blenkinsopp Alison , Raynor David K.
Published: May 2012

There have been widespread changes in society and the roles of professionals. This change is also reflected in health care, where there is now acceptance of the need to involve patients in decision making. In prescribing specifically, the concordance agenda was developed alongside these initiatives to encourage improved medication taking and reduce wastage. However the extent to which these partnerships are delivered in practice remains unclear. This paper explores some of the issues to be considered when preparing patients and professionals for partnership and summarizes the limited evidence of barriers to, and benefits of, this approach. Firstly patients must be given the confidence, skills and knowledge to be partners. They need information about medicines, provided in ways known to be acceptable to them. Likewise professionals may need new skills to be partners. They need to understand the patient agenda and may need training and support to change the ways in which they consult with patients. There are also practical issues such as the perceived increase in time taken when consulting in partnership mode, room layout, computer interfaces and record keeping. Health care professionals other than doctors are also expected to behave in partnership mode, whether this is as prescribers in their own right or in supporting the prescribing of others. Whilst much has been claimed for the benefit of partnership approaches, hard evidence is limited. However whilst there is still much more to understand there will be no going back to the paternalistic model of the mid 20th century.
Determining the influence of fibre post light transmission on polymerization depth and viscoelastic behaviour of dual‐cured resin cement
Authors: Dogar A. , Altintas S. C. , Kavlak S. , Guner A.
Published: May 2012

Aim

To evaluate the effect of quartz‐fibre posts on the depth of polymerization of a dual‐cure resin cement using Raman spectroscopy and to determine the physical properties of the polymerized cement using a dynamic mechanical analyzer (DMA).

Methodology

Twenty‐five fibre and 25 CrNi posts were used to evaluate depth of polymerization. Posts were cemented with dual‐cure resin into root canals formed from silicone moulds, without using bonding or etching agents. After polymerization, resin layers on each sample were removed using a curette and cut into three equal parts (apical, middle and coronal). All resin specimens for every third were gathered and crushed. Resin powder samples were analysed using Dynamic Mechanical Analysis and Raman spectroscopy for each third.

Results

The numerical data revealed that the thermal transitions of the materials took place at higher temperatures from the apical to the coronal sections in both groups. C=C double bond intensity was lower in fibre post‐resin cement samples when compared to their intensity in metal post‐resin cement samples.

Conclusion

Dual‐cured resin cements had more rigid properties and better polymerization for fibre posts when compared with metal posts. Polymerization quantity was affected by position in the canal.
Development of extruded snacks using soy, sorghum, millet and rice blend – A response surface methodology approach
Authors: Seth Dibyakanta , Rajamanickam Gopirajah
Published: May 2012

Response surface methodology (RSM) based on a five‐level‐three‐factor central composite rotatable design (CCRD) was employed for optimisation of formulation for production of a soy‐fortified millet‐based extruded snack. Effects of amount of ingredients such as ragi (40–50%), sorghum (10–20%) and soy (5–15%) on the physical properties like bulk density, expansion ratio, water absorption index and water solubility index of snacks were investigated. Significant regression models that explained the effects of different percentages of ragi, sorghum and soy on all response variables were determined. The coefficients of determination, R2, of all the response variables were higher than 0.90. Based on the given criteria for optimisation, the basic formulation for production of millet‐based extruded snack with desired sensory quality was obtained by incorporating with 42.03% ragi, 14.95% sorghum, 12.97% soy and 30% rice.
Fluorescence lifetime imaging – techniques and applications
Authors: BECKER W.
Published: May 2012

Fluorescence lifetime imaging (FLIM) uses the fact that the fluorescence lifetime of a fluorophore depends on its molecular environment but not on its concentration. Molecular effects in a sample can therefore be investigated independently of the variable, and usually unknown concentration of the fluorophore. There is a variety of technical solutions of lifetime imaging in microscopy. The technical part of this paper focuses on time‐domain FLIM by multidimensional time‐correlated single photon counting, time‐domain FLIM by gated image intensifiers, frequency‐domain FLIM by gain‐modulated image intensifiers, and frequency‐domain FLIM by gain‐modulated photomultipliers. The application part describes the most frequent FLIM applications: Measurement of molecular environment parameters, protein‐interaction measurements by Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET), and measurements of the metabolic state of cells and tissue via their autofluorescence. Measurements of local environment parameters are based on lifetime changes induced by fluorescence quenching or conformation changes of the fluorophores. The advantage over intensity‐based measurements is that no special ratiometric fluorophores are needed. Therefore, a much wider selection of fluorescence markers can be used, and a wider range of cell parameters is accessible. FLIM‐FRET measures the change in the decay function of the FRET donor on interaction with an acceptor. FLIM‐based FRET measurement does not have to cope with problems like donor bleedthrough or directly excited acceptor fluorescence. This relaxes the requirements to the absorption and emission spectra of the donors and acceptors used. Moreover, FLIM‐FRET measurements are able to distinguish interacting and noninteracting fractions of the donor, and thus obtain independent information about distances and interacting and noninteracting protein fractions. This is information not accessible by steady‐state FRET techniques. Autofluorescence FLIM exploits changes in the decay parameters of endogenous fluorophores with the metabolic state of the cells or the tissue. By resolving changes in the binding, conformation, and composition of biologically relevant compounds FLIM delivers information not accessible by steady‐state fluorescence techniques.
Conservation in a cup of water: estimating biodiversity and population abundance from environmental DNA
Authors: LODGE DAVID M. , TURNER CAMERON R. , JERDE CHRISTOPHER L. , BARNES MATTHEW A. , CHADDERTON LINDSAY , EGAN SCOTT P. , FEDER JEFFREY L. , MAHON ANDREW R. , PFRENDER MICHAEL E.
Published: May 2012

Three mantras often guide species and ecosystem management: (i) for preventing invasions by harmful species, ‘early detection and rapid response’; (ii) for conserving imperilled native species, ‘protection of biodiversity hotspots’; and (iii) for assessing biosecurity risk, ‘an ounce of prevention equals a pound of cure.’ However, these and other management goals are elusive when traditional sampling tools (e.g. netting, traps, electrofishing, visual surveys) have poor detection limits, are too slow or are not feasible. One visionary solution is to use an organism’s DNA in the environment (eDNA), rather than the organism itself, as the target of detection. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Thomsen et al. (2012) provide new evidence demonstrating the feasibility of this approach, showing that eDNA is an accurate indicator of the presence of an impressively diverse set of six aquatic or amphibious taxa including invertebrates, amphibians, a fish and a mammal in a wide range of freshwater habitats. They are also the first to demonstrate that the abundance of eDNA, as measured by qPCR, correlates positively with population abundance estimated with traditional tools. Finally, Thomsen et al. (2012) demonstrate that next‐generation sequencing of eDNA can quantify species richness. Overall, Thomsen et al. (2012) provide a revolutionary roadmap for using eDNA for detection of species, estimates of relative abundance and quantification of biodiversity.
Natural variation in GL1 and its effects on trichome density in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: BLOOMER R. H. , JUENGER T. E. , SYMONDS V. V.
Published: May 2012

The ultimate understanding of how biological diversity arises, is maintained, and lost depends on identifying the genes responsible. Although a good deal has been discovered about gene function over the past few decades, far less is understood about gene effects, that is, how natural variation in a gene contributes to natural variation in phenotypes. Trichome density in Arabidopsis thaliana is an ideal trait for studies of natural molecular and phenotypic variation, as trichome initiation is genetically well‐characterized and trichome density is highly variable in and among natural populations. Here, we show that variation at GLABRA1 (GL1), an R2R3 MYB transcription factor gene, which has a role in trichome initiation, has qualitative and likely quantitative effects on trichome density in natural accessions of A. thaliana. Specifically, we characterize four independent loss‐of‐function alleles for GL1, each of which yields a glabrous phenotype. Further, we find that a pattern of common polymorphisms confined to the GL1 locus is associated with quantitative variation for trichome density. While mutations resulting in a glabrous phenotype are primarily coding changes, the pattern resulting in quantitative variation spans both coding and regulatory regions. These data show that GL1 is an important source of trichome density variation within A. thaliana and, along with recent reports, suggest that the TTG1 epidermal cell fate pathway generally may be the key molecular genetic source of natural trichome density variation and an important model for the study of molecular evolution.
Control of glutamate homeostasis in Bacillus subtilis: a complex interplay between ammonium assimilation, glutamate biosynthesis and degradation
Authors: Gunka Katrin , Commichau Fabian M.
Published: May 2012

Glutamate, the major amino group donor in anabolism, is synthesized by the combined action of the glutamine synthetase (GS) and the glutamate synthase (GOGAT) in Bacillus subtilis. The glutamate dehydrogenase (GDH) exclusively degrades glutamate. GS and GDH are both trigger enzymes, active in nitrogen metabolism and in controlling gene expression. Feedback‐inhibited GS (FBI‐GS) controls DNA‐binding activities of two transcription factors, the repressor GlnR and TnrA, the global regulator of nitrogen metabolism. FBI‐GS binds to and activates GlnR. This protein complex inhibits GS formation and thus glutamine synthesis. Moreover, FBI‐GS inhibits DNA‐binding activity of TnrA. Glutamate biosynthesis, the reaction linking carbon with nitrogen metabolism, is controlled by GDH. Together with glutamate GDH inhibits GltC, the transcription factor that activates expression of the GOGAT genes. Thus, GS and GDH control glutamine and glutamate synthesis, respectively, depending on the nitrogen status of the cell. B. subtilis lacking a functional GDH show a severe growth defect. Interestingly, the growth defect is suppressed by the rapid activation of an inactive GDH. Thus, maintenance of glutamate homeostasis is crucial for cellular vitality. This review covers the recent work on the complex control of glutamine and glutamate metabolism in the Gram‐positive model organism B. subtilis.
Light‐induced alteration of c‐di‐GMP level controls motility of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803
Authors: Savakis Philipp , De Causmaecker Sven , Angerer Veronika , Ruppert Ulrike , Anders Katrin , Essen Lars‐Oliver , Wilde Annegret
Published: May 2012

Cph2 from the cyanobacterium Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 is a hybrid photoreceptor that comprises an N‐terminal module for red/far‐red light reception and a C‐terminal module switching between a blue‐ and a green‐receptive state. This unusual photoreceptor exerts complex, light quality‐dependent control of the motility of Synechocystis sp. PCC 6803 cells by inhibiting phototaxis towards blue light. Cph2 perceives blue light by its third GAF domain that bears all characteristics of a cyanobacteriochrome (CBCR) including photoconversion between green‐ and blue‐absorbing states as well as formation of a bilin species simultaneously tethered to two cysteines, C994 and C1022. Upon blue light illumination the CBCR domain activates the subsequent C‐terminal GGDEF domain, which catalyses formation of the second messenger c‐di‐GMP. Accordingly, expression of the CBCR‐GGDEF module in Δcph2 mutant cells restores the blue light‐dependent inhibition of motility. Additional expression of the N‐terminal Cph2 fragment harbouring a red/far‐red interconverting phytochrome fused to a c‐di‐GMP degrading EAL domain restores the complex behaviour of the intact Cph2 photosensor. c‐di‐GMP was shown to regulate flagellar and pili‐based motility in several bacteria. Here we provide the first evidence that this universal bacterial second messenger is directly involved in the light‐dependent regulation of cyanobacterial phototaxis.
PICK1 expression in reactive astrocytes within the spinal cord of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) rats
Authors: Focant M. C. , Goursaud S. , Boucherie C. , Dumont A. O. , Hermans E.
Published: May 2012

M. C. Focant, S. Goursaud, C. Boucherie, A. O. Dumont and E. Hermans (2013) Neuropathology and Applied Neurobiology39, 231–242

PICK1 expression in reactive astrocytes within the spinal cord of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) rats

Aims: The protein interacting with C kinase 1 (PICK1), a PDZ domain‐containing protein mainly expressed in the central nervous system, interacts with the glutamate receptor subunit GluR2, with the glutamate transporter GLT‐1b and with the enzyme serine racemase. These three proteins appear as key actors in the glutamate‐mediated excitotoxicity associated with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), in both patients and animal models of the disease. In this study, we examined the expression of PICK1 in the spinal cord of transgenic rats expressing a mutated form of the human superoxide dismutase 1 (hSOD1G93A) during the progression of the disease. Methods: Expression of PICK1 was examined by real‐time qPCR at presymptomatic and symptomatic stages as well as at end‐stage. The expression of PICK1 in the different cell types of the spinal cord was examined by immunohistochemistry. Results: The overall expression of PICK1 is not modified in cervical and lumbar spinal cord of transgenic (hSOD1G93A) rats during the progression of the disease. Nonetheless, immunohistochemical studies of lumbar ventral horns revealed a shift of PICK1 expression from motor neurones in healthy rats to activated astrocytes in end‐stage hSOD1G93A animals. Conclusions: Considering the documented influence of PICK1 expression on d‐serine release and glutamate transport in astrocytes, these findings point to a potential implication of PICK1 in the progression of ALS.
Molecular mechanisms of seed dormancy
Authors: GRAEBER KAI , NAKABAYASHI KAZUMI , MIATTON EMMA , LEUBNER‐METZGER GERHARD , SOPPE WIM J. J.
Published: May 2012

Seed dormancy is an important component of plant fitness that causes a delay of germination until the arrival of a favourable growth season. Dormancy is a complex trait that is determined by genetic factors with a substantial environmental influence. Several of the tissues comprising a seed contribute to its final dormancy level. The roles of the plant hormones abscisic acid and gibberellin in the regulation of dormancy and germination have long been recognized. The last decade saw the identification of several additional factors that influence dormancy including dormancy‐specific genes, chromatin factors and non‐enzymatic processes. This review gives an overview of our present understanding of the mechanisms that control seed dormancy at the molecular level, with an emphasis on new insights. The various regulators that are involved in the induction and release of dormancy, the influence of environmental factors and the conservation of seed dormancy mechanisms between plant species are discussed. Finally, expected future directions in seed dormancy research are considered.
Nitric oxide promotes MPK6‐mediated caspase‐3‐like activation in cadmium‐induced Arabidopsis thaliana programmed cell death
Authors: YE YUN , LI ZHE , XING DA
Published: May 2012

Nitric oxide (NO), a vital cell‐signalling molecule, has been reported to regulate toxic metal responses in plants. This work investigated the effects of NO and the relationship between NO and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) programmed cell death (PCD) induced by cadmium (Cd2+) exposure. With fluorescence resonance energy transfer (FRET) analysis, caspase‐3‐like protease activation was detected after Cd2+ treatment. This was further confirmed with a caspase‐3 substrate assay. Cd2+‐induced caspase‐3‐like activity was inhibited in the presence of the NO‐specific scavenger 2‐(4‐carboxyphenyl)‐4,4,5,5‐tetramethylimidazoline‐1‐oxyl‐3‐oxide (cPTIO), suggesting that NO mediated caspase‐3‐like protease activation under Cd2+ stress conditions. Pretreatment with cPTIO effectively inhibited Cd2+‐induced MAPK activation, indicating that NO also affected the MAPK pathway. Interestingly, Cd2+‐induced caspase‐3‐like activity was significantly suppressed in the mpk6 mutant, suggesting that MPK6 was required for caspase‐3‐like protease activation. To our knowledge, this is the first demonstration that NO promotes Cd2+‐induced Arabidopsis PCD by promoting MPK6‐mediated caspase‐3‐like activation.
Change over time (2007–2009) in HIV preventive behaviours, evidence from two serial population‐based surveys in rural Zimbabwe
Authors: Langhaug Lisa , Buzdugan Raluca , Copas Andrew , Dirawo Jeffrey , Benedict Clemens , Mundida Oscar , Manyenya Sunday , Woelk Godfrey , Cowan Frances
Published: May 2012

Objective  To assess reported HIV knowledge and attitudes, sexual behaviours and HIV testing in Zimbabwe.

Methods  Representative household surveys of all 18–24 year olds and a proportion of 25–44 year olds were conducted in six purposefully selected rural districts in two provinces in 2007 and 2009. Both surveys used the same methods and questionnaires. We compared differences in reported HIV knowledge, sexual behaviours and HIV testing, controlling for differences in socio‐demographics at baseline, using cross‐tabulations and multivariate regression analyses.

Results  Analysis was restricted to districts included in both baseline (n = 1891) and mid‐term (n = 2746) surveys. Comparisons indicate increased reports of HIV knowledge (35%vs. 22% had high knowledge) and more favourable individual attitudes towards HIV. There was an increase in reported HIV testing (men: 41%vs. 31%, women: 55%vs. 36%) and condom use (men: adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 1.35, women: AOR = 1.22) and a decrease in number of sexual partners (men: 67%vs. 49% reported 1 partner/previous 6 months, women: 77%vs. 68%).

Conclusions  As Zimbabwe continues to document declines in HIV prevalence, this analysis offers insight into recent and continuing positive changes in knowledge, attitudes and behaviours among the rural population.
Differences in the stimulation of cyclic electron flow in two tropical ferns under water stress are related to leaf anatomy
Authors: Wang Ji‐Hua , Li Shen‐Chong , Sun Mei , Huang Wei , Cao Hua , Xu Feng , Zhou Ning‐Ning , Zhang Shi‐Bao
Published: May 2012

Cyclic electron flow (CEF) plays an important role in photoprotection for angiosperms under environmental stresses. However, ferns are more sensitive to drought and their water transport systems are not as efficient as those of angiosperms, it is unclear whether CEF also contributes to photoprotection in these plants. Using Microsorum punctatum and Paraleptochillus decurrens, we studied the electron fluxes through both photosystem I (PSI) and photosystem II (PSII) under water stress and their leaf anatomies. Our goal was to determine if CEF functions in the photoprotection of these ferns and, if so, whether CEF stimulation is related to leaf anatomy. Compared with P. decurrens, M. punctatum had thicker leaves and cuticles and higher water storage capacity, but lower stomatal density and slower rate of water loss. During induced drought, the decrease in leaf water potential (Ψleaf) was more pronounced in P. decurrens than in M. punctatum. For both species, the decline in Ψleaf was associated with a lower effective PSII quantum yield, photochemical quantum yield of PSI and electron transport rate (ETR), whereas increases were found in the quantum yield of regulated energy dissipation, CEF and CEF/ETR(II) ratio. Values for CEF and the CEF/ETR(II) ratio peaked in M. punctatum at a light intensity of 500–600 µmol m−2 s−1 vs only 150–200 µmol m−2 s−1 in P. decurrens. Therefore, our results indicate that the stimulation of CEF in tropical ferns contributes to their photoprotection under water stress, and is related to their respective drought tolerance and leaf anatomy.
Estimation of historical effective population size using linkage disequilibria with marker data
Authors: Corbin L.J. , Liu A.Y.H. , Bishop S.C. , Woolliams J.A.
Published: May 2012

Theory hypothesizes that the rate of decline in linkage disequilibrium (LD) as a function of distance between markers, measured by r2, can be used to estimate effective population size (Ne) and how it varies over time. The development of high‐density genotyping makes feasible the application of this theory and has provided an impetus to improve predictions. This study considers the impact of several developments on the estimation of Ne using both simulated and equine high‐density single‐nucleotide polymorphism data, when Ne is assumed to be constant a priori and when it is not. In all models, estimates of Ne were highly sensitive to thresholds imposed upon minor allele frequency (MAF) and to a priori assumptions on the expected r2 for adjacent markers. Where constant Ne was assumed a priori, then estimates with the lowest mean square error were obtained with MAF thresholds between 0.05 and 0.10, adjustment of r2 for finite sample size, estimation of a [the limit for r2 as recombination frequency (c) approaches 0] and relating Ne to c (1 – c/2). The findings for predicting Ne from models allowing variable Ne were much less clear, apart from the desirability of correcting for finite sample size, and the lack of consistency in estimating recent Ne (<7 generations) where estimates use data with large c. The theoretical conflicts over how estimation should proceed and uncertainty over where predictions might be expected to fit well suggest that the estimation of Ne when it varies be carried out with extreme caution.
The benefits of a tailor‐made pilot primary health‐care course for Indigenous high school students in remote Queensland
Authors: Pham Xiuzhi , Page Priscilla , Sivamalai Sundram , Woolley Torres
Published: May 2012

Objective:  This study highlights the benefits of a tailor‐made course for an Indigenous high school in a remote North Queensland community.

Design:  Qualitative research study using a Grounded Theory approach to allow thematic analysis of participant's responses to a researcher‐administered, pre‐defined, semistructured questionnaire.

Setting:  Remote community college in Abergowrie, North Queensland.

Participants:  Four male high school students and eight key stakeholders were interviewed over the telephone (n = 12).

Results:  Thematic analyses of the feedback from students and stakeholders showed a variety of benefits from the course for Indigenous students: increased knowledge of health issues, greater awareness and interest in health career pathways, increased pride, self‐esteem and self‐confidence, positive role‐modelling and leadership behaviour in the students, and hope for future career development. Weaknesses identified were mainly associated with a lack of resources and support for the course.

Conclusions:  This study demonstrates that a tailor‐made primary health‐care education course can create opportunities for Indigenous people to pursue health careers, promote health knowledge and leadership skills, inspire pride and self‐esteem, and strengthen links within the community.
Dancing with data: An example of acquiring theoretical sensitivity in a grounded theory study
Authors: Hoare Karen J , Mills Jane , Francis Karen
Published: May 2012

Hoare KJ, Mills J, Francis K. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 240–245

Dancing with data: An example of acquiring theoretical sensitivity in a grounded theory study

Glaser suggested that the conceptual route from data collection to a grounded theory is a set of double back steps. The route forward inevitably results in the analyst stepping back. Additionally sidestepping through, leading participants down lines of inquiry and following data threads with other participants, is also characteristic of acquiring theoretical sensitivity, a key concept in grounded theory. Other ways of acquiring theoretical sensitivity comprise: reading the literature, open coding, category building, reflecting in memos followed by doubling back on data collection once further lines of inquiry are opened up. This paper describes how we ‘danced with data’ in pursuit of heightened theoretical sensitivity in a grounded theory study of information use by nurses working in general practice in New Zealand. Providing an example of how analytical tools are employed to theoretically sample emerging concepts.
Phylogenetic analyses of band‐winged grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Oedipodinae) reveal convergence of wing morphology
Authors: Husemann Martin , Namkung Suk , Habel Jan C. , Danley Patrick D. , Hochkirch Axel
Published: May 2012

Husemann, M., Namkung, S., Habel, J.C., Danley, P.D. & Hochkirch, A. (2012). Phylogenetic analyses of band‐winged grasshoppers (Orthoptera, Acrididae, Oedipodinae) reveal convergence of wing morphology. —Zoologica Scripta, 41, 515–526.

Historically, morphological traits have been used to examine the relationships of distantly related taxa with global distributions. The use of such traits, however, may be misleading and may not provide the resolution needed to distinguish various hypotheses that may explain the distribution patterns of widely distributed taxa. One such taxon, the Oedipodine grasshoppers, contains two tribes principally defined by wing morphologies: the Bryodemini have broad wings whereas Sphingonotini are narrow‐winged. Through the use of morphological features alone, hypotheses concerning the evolution of these tribes cannot be distinguished. To differentiate hypotheses that may explain the distribution of Oedipodines, such as vicariance, natural dispersal and anthropogenic translocation, we used two mitochondrial and three nuclear gene fragments to reconstruct the phylogenetic relationships within and between the two tribes, and employed a molecular clock to evaluate the hypotheses of vicariance and dispersal. Our results clearly reject monophyly of the tribes and revealed monophyletic Old and New World clades, which is in agreement with previous molecular studies. The split between both clades was dated at 35 Ma (±12 Ma). This clearly rejects the vicariance hypothesis and supports a single invasion via the Beringian land bridge. In addition, our data clearly show that the similarities in wing morphology used for distinguishing both tribes are the result of at least one convergent event. Our study shows that interpretations of relationships based on the currently accepted taxonomy in the study groups will be error prone. We suggest that future revisions that consider our findings are required.
Towards an acoustic‐based coupled observation and modelling system for monitoring and predicting ecosystem dynamics of the open ocean
Authors: Handegard Nils Olav , Buisson Louis du , Brehmer Patrice , Chalmers Stewart J , De Robertis Alex , Huse Geir , Kloser Rudy , Macaulay Gavin , Maury Olivier , Ressler Patrick H , Stenseth Nils Chr , Godø Olav Rune
Published: May 2012

Assessment of open‐ocean ecosystems relies on understanding ecosystem dynamics, and development of end‐to‐end ecosystem models represents an approach that addresses these challenges. These models incorporate the population structure and dynamics of marine organisms at all trophic levels. Satellite remote sensing of ocean colour and direct at‐sea measurements provide information on the lower trophic levels of the models, and fisheries studies provide information on top predator species. However, these models suffer from a lack of observations for the so‐called mid‐trophic levels, which are poorly sampled by conventional methods. This restricts further development, and we argue that acoustic observations from a range of platforms (e.g. buoys, moorings) can be linked to the ecosystem models to provide much‐needed information on these trophic levels. To achieve this, the models need to be tailored to incorporate the available acoustic data, and the link from acoustic backscatter to biologically relevant variables (biomass, carbon, etc.) needs attention. Methods to progress this issue are proposed, including the development of observation models and focal areas for ground truthing. To ensure full use of the potential of acoustic techniques, we argue that a systematic and long‐term strategy incorporating the following elements is required: development of metadata standards and automated data analysis, inclusion of acoustic sensors in large‐scale observatory programmes, improvement of observation‐model links, and efficient sampling strategies. Finally, these elements should be tied together in an observation‐modelling framework, coordinated by international organizations, to improve our understanding and quantification of open‐ocean ecosystem dynamics.
Moss‐based production of asialo‐erythropoietin devoid of Lewis A and other plant‐typical carbohydrate determinants
Authors: Parsons Juliana , Altmann Friedrich , Arrenberg Claudia K. , Koprivova Anna , Beike Anna K. , Stemmer Christian , Gorr Gilbert , Reski Ralf , Decker Eva L.
Published: May 2012

Protein therapeutics represent one of the most increasing areas in the pharmaceutical industry. Plants gain acceptance as attractive alternatives for high‐quality and economical protein production. However, as the majority of biopharmaceuticals are glycoproteins, plant‐specific N‐glycosylation has to be taken into consideration. In Physcomitrella patens (moss), glyco‐engineering is an applicable tool, and the removal of immunogenic core xylose and fucose residues was realized before. Here, we present the identification of the enzymes that are responsible for terminal glycosylation (α1,4 fucosylation and β1,3 galactosylation) on complex‐type N‐glycans in moss. The terminal trisaccharide consisting of α1,4 fucose and β1,3 galactose linked to N‐acetylglucosamine forms the so‐called Lewis A epitope. This epitope is rare on moss wild‐type proteins, but was shown to be enriched on complex‐type N‐glycans of moss‐produced recombinant human erythropoietin, while unknown from the native human protein. Via gene targeting of moss galactosyltransferase and fucosyltransferase genes, we identified the gene responsible for terminal glycosylation and were able to completely abolish the formation of Lewis A residues on the recombinant biopharmaceutical.
Characterisation of a cell‐free supernatant obtained from cultures of Enterococcus faecalis DBFIQ E24 with antagonistic activity against bacteria, yeasts and moulds
Authors: DE LAS M CARDOSO MARÍA , MANZO RICARDO M , TONARELLI GEORGINA G , SIMONETTA ARTURO C
Published: May 2012

Enterococcus faecalis DBFIQ E24 strain produces antimicrobial substances that inhibit the growth of food‐borne pathogenic bacteria, yeasts and moulds. This broad antimicrobial spectrum was determined by obtaining the cell‐free supernatant (CFS) and employing the agar‐well‐diffusion method. Its antibacterial activity was completely inactivated by the action of proteinase K and not affected by catalase action. Besides, it was stable to thermal treatments, showing maximum antibacterial activity at pH 7.0. Moreover, CFS showed a bactericidal effect against Escherichia coli DBFIQ Ec9 strain. All these interesting physicochemical properties allow that either CFS or E. faecalis DBFIQ E24 strain to be considered as potential food biopreservatives.
Navitoclax (ABT‐263) and bendamustine ± rituximab induce enhanced killing of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma tumours in vivo
Authors: Ackler S , Mitten MJ , Chen J , Clarin J , Foster K , Jin S , Phillips DC , Schlessinger S , Wang B , Leverson JD , Boghaert ER
Published: May 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Bendamustine with or without rituximab provides an effective and more tolerable alternative to the polytherapy cyclophosphamide–doxorubicin–vincristine–prednisolone (CHOP) in the treatment of haematological tumours and is currently approved for the treatment of many haematological malignancies. Navitoclax (ABT‐263) is a potent inhibitor of Bcl‐2, Bcl‐xL and Bcl‐w, which has demonstrated efficacy in haematological tumours alone and in combination with other agents. This paper describes the in vivo efficacy of combining either bendamustine or bendamustine plus rituximab (BR) with navitoclax in xenograft models of non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH Activity was tested in xenograft models of diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DoHH‐2, SuDHL‐4), mantle cell lymphoma (Granta 519) and Burkitt's lymphoma (RAMOS). Activity was also monitored in a systemic model of Granta 519.

KEY RESULTS Navitoclax potentiated bendamustine activity in all cell lines tested. Bendamustine activated p53 in Granta 519 tumours, concurrent with activation of caspase 3. Navitoclax also improved responses to bendamustine‐rituximab (BR) in a subset of tumours.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS Navitoclax in combination with bendamustine and BR is a viable combination strategy for use in the clinic and demonstrated superior efficacy compared with previously reported data for navitoclax plus CHOP and rituximab‐CHOP.
Safety of peginterferon alfa‐2a plus ribavirin in a large multinational cohort of chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Lee Samuel S. , Roberts Stuart K. , Berak Hanna , Dusheiko Geoffrey M. , Harley Hugh A. , Gane Edward J. , Husa Petr , Horsmans Yves J. , Hadziyannis Stephanos J. , Jenny Heathcote E. , Messinger Diethelm , Tatsch Fernando , Han Kwang‐Hyub , Ferenci Peter
Published: May 2012

Background & Aims

Peginterferon plus ribavirin has been the standard of care for chronic hepatitis C for a decade and an essential component of combination regimens for this disease. This large multinational open‐label study aimed to better define the incidence of serious adverse events (SAEs) and non‐serious adverse events of special interest in patients receiving peginterferon alfa‐2a/ribavirin.

Methods

Patients were assigned at the investigator's discretion to 24‐ or 48‐week treatment with peginterferon alfa‐2a 180 μg/week and ribavirin 800 mg/day or 1000/1200 mg/day. All AEs, defined as SAEs and non‐SAEs of special interest, were recorded during treatment and for 12 weeks thereafter. Non‐SAEs of special interest included those leading to dose reduction/discontinuation, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, anaemia, ALT elevations leading to dose modification and unknown/unexpected AEs.

Results

Of 1675 and 7178 patients assigned to 24 and 48 weeks of treatment, respectively, 87.6 and 68.3% completed therapy, whereas 6.4 and 10.3% prematurely stopped peginterferon alfa‐2a treatment because of AEs. Among patients assigned to 24 and 48 weeks, 37.4 and 46.9%, respectively, reported any AE (SAE or non‐SAE of special interest); 4.2 and 6.6% reported SAEs and 35.2 and 44.0% reported non‐SAEs of special interest. Female gender, increasing age and cirrhosis were significantly associated with dose reductions of either drug. Increasing age (and female gender in the case of ribavirin) was significantly associated with treatment discontinuation.

Conclusion

This study confirmed the safety and tolerability profile of peginterferon alfa‐2a/ribavirin and identified patient subgroups at higher risk of dose reductions and discontinuations, thus allowing optimum management of AEs.
Higher risk of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP‐2, 7, 9) and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinase (TIMP‐2) genetic variants to gallbladder cancer
Authors: Sharma Kiran L. , Misra Sanjeev , Kumar Ashok , Mittal Balraj
Published: May 2012

Background

Matrix metalloproteinase belong to family of pericellular collagenases which degrade extracellular matrix (ECM), and is involved in the modulation and susceptibility of various cancers.

Methodology

The present study included 410 gallbladder (GBC) cases and 230 healthy controls from North India. Study examined the associations of polymorphisms of MMP‐2c.735C>T (rs2285053), MMP‐2c.1306 C>T (rs243865), MMP7c.181A>G (rs11568818), MMP‐9p.R279Q (rs17556) MMP‐9p.P574R (rs2250889), MMP‐9 p.R668Q (rs17577) and TIMP2c.418 G>C (rs8179090) to GBC susceptibility. Genotyping was carried out by PCR‐RFLP. Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS ver16.

Results

The MMP‐2 c.735 [CT+TT], MMP‐2c.1306 [CT+TT], MMP7 c.181 [AG+GG] and MMP‐9 p.668 [RQ+QQ],TIMP2c.418 [GG+GC] genotypes were significantly associated with increased risk of GBC (P = 0.01; [OR]1.87, P = 0.02; [OR] 1.68, P = 0.02; [OR]=1.61, P = 0.002; [OR]=1.91,P = 0.01; [OR]=1.78 and (P = 0.03; [OR]=1.68; P = 0.01; [OR]=1.78 respectively). Haplotypes [C‐735‐T‐1306] and [T‐1306‐C‐735] of MMP‐2 (P = <0.005; [OR] =1.78 P = <0.0001; [OR] =2.09) and haplotype [Q279‐P574‐Q668]of the MMP‐9 (P = 0.04; [OR] =2.75) were significantly associated with GBC risk. On stratification of GBC patients with/without gallstones, MMP‐2 haplotypes were associated with higher GBC risk in patients accompanying gallstones whereas MMP‐9 haplotypes showed risk in patients without stones. Combined effect of > 3 MMP/TIMP variant containing genotypes imparted increased risk of GBC (P < 0.0001; [OR] =3.36). Multivariate logistic regression results also supported association of MMP‐2 (c.735C>T, c.1306 C>T), MMP‐9 p.R668Q and TIMP2c.418G>C variants with GBC susceptibility.

Conclusion

This study suggests that genetic variants in MMP‐2,7,9 and TIMP‐2genes are associated with higher susceptibility of gallbladder cancer.
Effects of the substratum on the formation of glacial tunnel valleys: an example from the Middle Pleistocene of the southern North Sea Basin
Authors: Janszen Adriaan , Spaak Michael , Moscariello Andrea
Published: May 2012

Tunnel valleys are elongated incisions formed by meltwater underneath ice sheets that rest on unlithified bed materials. The formation of tunnel valleys is commonly believed to be influenced by the properties of the preglacial bed; however, a detailed analysis of this relationship has not been performed to date. To determine whether tunnel‐valley location and morphology are controlled by the substratum, a 3D seismic survey was combined with lithological data from the Wadden Sea area in the Dutch sector of the southern North Sea Basin. This study shows that tunnel‐valley floors often coincide with seismic reflectors that mark lithological boundaries in the substratum, and that the location and depth of tunnel‐valley incision vary as a function of the properties of the substratum as expressed by lithological and geophysical‐log variations. Tunnel valleys are incised preferentially into fine‐grained layers, while the top of coarser‐grained units commonly coincide with the tunnel‐valley floor. These observations indicate that the geometry and orientation of tunnel valleys in the study area are controlled by contrasts in lithological properties of the bed. An explanation for the observed lithological control might lie in large water‐pressure differences over fine‐grained and impermeable layers along the flow‐path of subglacial meltwater flowing through the substratum, from areas with high pore‐water pressure towards areas with relatively low pressures in the vicinity of meltwater channels. These pressure differences might have been sufficient for the fracturing and fluidization of these layers. The concepts presented here have implications for existing genetic models and for the prediction of tunnel‐valley morphology in understudied areas.
Effects of Tour Boats on Dolphin Activity Examined with Sensitivity Analysis of Markov Chains
Authors: DANS SILVANA LAURA , DEGRATI MARIANA , PEDRAZA SUSANA NOEMÍ , CRESPO ENRIQUE ALBERTO
Published: May 2012

Abstract:  In Patagonia, Argentina, watching dolphins, especially dusky dolphins (Lagenorhynchus obscurus), is a new tourist activity. Feeding time decreases and time to return to feeding after feeding is abandoned and time it takes a group of dolphins to feed increase in the presence of boats. Such effects on feeding behavior may exert energetic costs on dolphins and thus reduce an individual's survival and reproductive capacity or maybe associated with shifts in distribution. We sought to predict which behavioral changes modify the activity pattern of dolphins the most. We modeled behavioral sequences of dusky dolphins with Markov chains. We calculated transition probabilities from one activity to another and arranged them in a stochastic matrix model. The proportion of time dolphins dedicated to a given activity (activity budget) and the time it took a dolphin to resume that activity after it had been abandoned (recurrence time) were calculated. We used a sensitivity analysis of Markov chains to calculate the sensitivity of the time budget and the activity‐resumption time to changes in behavioral transition probabilities. Feeding‐time budget was most sensitive to changes in the probability of dolphins switching from traveling to feeding behavior and of maintaining feeding behavior. Thus, an increase in these probabilities would be associated with the largest reduction in the time dedicated to feeding. A reduction in the probability of changing from traveling to feeding would also be associated with the largest increases in the time it takes dolphins to resume feeding. To approach dolphins when they are traveling would not affect behavior less because presence of the boat may keep dolphins from returning to feeding. Our results may help operators of dolphin‐watching vessels minimize negative effects on dolphins.