bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Utility of molecular analyses in the exploration of extreme intrafamilial variability in the Marfan syndrome
Authors: De Backer J , Loeys B , Leroy B , Coucke P , Dietz H , De Paepe A
Published: August 2007

The diagnosis of Marfan syndrome may be hampered by the existence of very mild and atypical cases as well as by marked intrafamilial variability. In these instances, molecular analysis of the fibrillin‐1 gene (FBN1) can be helpful to identify individuals at risk. The underlying molecular mechanism for the clinical variability is presently unknown. We performed clinical and molecular studies in 36 subjects from three unrelated families. Expression studies of both FBN1 alleles were performed and related to the clinical severity. In family 1, an overlapping phenotype between Marfan syndrome (MFS) and Weill–Marchesani syndrome is presented. The diagnosis necessitated molecular studies and clinical examination in first‐degree relatives. In family 2, the young proband presented with a phenotype overlapping between MFS and the kyphoscoliotic type of Ehlers–Danlos syndrome. Follow‐up over time and identification of a FBN1 mutation allowed confirmation of the diagnosis. Mutation analysis enabled us to identify family members with mild expression. Family 3 illustrates the extensive intrafamilial variability in the clinical severity of MFS. Identification of a FBN1 mutation was helpful to identify subjects with mild expression and for the timely diagnosis in a neonate. In families 2 and 3, the relative expression of both FBN1 alleles was not related to clinical severity. We demonstrated that confirmation of the diagnosis of MFS may require detailed and repeated clinical evaluation and thorough family history taking. FBN1 mutation analysis is supportive for the diagnosis in mild and atypical presentations.
Frequency of constitutional MSH6 mutations in a consecutive series of families with clinical suspicion of HNPCC
Authors: Roncari B , Pedroni M , Maffei S , Di Gregorio C , Ponti G , Scarselli A , Losi L , Benatti P , Roncucci L , De Gaetani C , Camellini L , Lucci‐Cordisco E , Tricarico R , Genuardi M , Ponz de Leon M
Published: August 2007

A large majority of constitutional mutations in hereditary non‐polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) are because of the MHL1 or MSH2 genes. In a lower fraction of cases, another gene of the mismatch repair (MMR) machinery, MSH6, may be responsible. Families with MSH6 mutations are difficult to recognize, as microsatellite instability (MSI) may not be detectable and immunohistochemistry (IHC) may give ambiguous results. In the present study, we proposed (i) to determine the frequency of MSH6 mutations in a selected population of colorectal cancer patients obtained from a tumor registry, (ii) to assess whether IHC is a suitable tool for selecting and identifying MSH6 mutation carriers. One hundred neoplasms of the large bowel from suspected HNPCC families were analyzed for MSI (BAT25 and BAT26 markers) and immunohistochemical expression of the MSH6 protein. We found on 12 tumors (from different families) showing instability or lack of MSH6 expression. Among these, four potentially pathogenic MSH6 mutations were detected (del A at 2984; del TT at 3119; del AGG cod 385; and del CGT cod 1242) by direct gene sequencing. These represented 12.9% of all families with constitutional mutations of the DNA MMR genes. Thus, some 5% of all HNPCC families are featured by constitutional mutation of the MSH6 gene. This appears, however, as a minimum estimate; routine use of IHC and the study of large numbers of individuals and families with little or no evidence of Lynch syndrome might reveal that mutation of this gene account for a large fraction of HNPCC.
Prevalence of CYP1B1 mutations in Australian patients with primary congenital glaucoma
Authors: Dimasi DP , Hewitt AW , Straga T , Pater J , MacKinnon JR , Elder JE , Casey T , Mackey DA , Craig JE
Published: August 2007

Analysis of CYP1B1 in primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) patients from various ethnic populations indicates that allelic heterogeneity is high, and some mutations are population specific. No study has previously reported the rate or spectrum of CYP1B1 mutations in Australian PCG patients. The aim of this study is to determine the frequency of CYP1B1 mutations in our predominately Caucasian, Australian cohort of PCG cases. Thirty‐seven probands were recruited from South‐Eastern Australia, along with 100 normal control subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted and the coding regions of CYP1B1 analysed by direct sequencing. Sequence analysis identified 10 different CYP1B1 disease‐causing variants in eight probands (21.6%). Five subjects were compound heterozygotes, two subjects heterozygous and one homozygous for CYP1B1 mutations. Three missense mutations are novel (D192Y, G329D, and P400S). None of the novel mutations identified were found in normal controls. One normal control subject was heterozygous for the previously reported CYP1B1 R368H mutation. Six previously described probable polymorphisms were also identified. Mutations in CYP1B1 account for approximately one in five PCG cases from Australia. Our data also supported the high degree of allelic heterogeneity seen in similar studies from other ethnic populations, thereby underscoring the fact that other PCG‐related genes remain to be identified.
Combined UGT1A1 and UGT1A7 variant alleles are associated with increased risk of Gilbert’s syndrome in Taiwanese adults
Authors: Teng H‐C , Huang M‐J , Tang K‐S , Yang S‐S , Tseng C‐S , Huang C‐S
Published: August 2007

Gilbert’s syndrome (GS) is caused by a reduction in the activity of hepatic bilirubin UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT). This reduction is associated with UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*6 polymorphisms. Recent research also showed that carriage of UGT1A1*6 allele were significantly related with UGT1A7*3. Polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism were utilized to determine UGT1A7 and UGT1A1 genes for 207 patients with GS and 207 gender/age‐matched healthy controls. For the 207 healthy controls, linkage disequilibrium was observed between −57UGT1A7 and 622UGT1A7 loci (D′ = 1.00 and r2 = 1.00), −57UGT1A7 and 211UGT1A1 loci (D′ = 0.72 and r2 = 0.36), respectively. A dose–response effect for number of at‐risk allele of UGT1A1 and risk for GS was noted (odds ratio (OR) = 8.19 for heterozygous UGT1A1*28 genotype; OR = 124.96 for homozygous UGT1A1*28 genotype; and p for trend <0.05). Patients with combined genotypes carrying UGT1A7 variant alleles and UGT1A1 variant alleles (including UGT1A1*28 and UGT1A1*6) are associated with increased risk of GS (OR = 13.96 for patients with combined genotype carrying at least one variant allele of UGT1A1 and UGT1A7). In conclusion, the −57UGT1A7 (T>G) is highly associated with UGT1A7*3 and moderately associated with 211UGT1A1 (G>A). Certain UGT1A1/UGT1A7 combined genotypes are risk factors of GS.
Thymoglobulin induction and steroid avoidance in cardiac transplantation: results of a prospective, randomized, controlled study
Authors: Yamani Mohamad H , Taylor David O , Czerr Jennifer , Haire Christinna , Kring Richard , Zhou Lingmei , Hobbs Robert , Smedira Nicholas , Starling Randall C
Published: August 2007

Abstract:  Background:  Chronic use of corticosteroids (CS) following transplantation is associated with significant long‐term morbidities. Minimizing exposure to CS to improve long‐term outcomes, without compromising allograft function, remains an important goal in transplantation.

Objectives:  This single‐center, prospective, randomized, open‐label study was designed to evaluate the efficacy of Thymoglobulin® as part of a CS‐sparing regimen in cardiac transplantation.

Methods:  Thirty‐two low‐risk cardiac transplant patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to receive either a Thymoglobulin‐based CS‐avoidance regimen (CS‐avoidance group; n = 16) or a long‐term CS‐based regimen with no antibody induction (control group; n = 16). Pulse CS therapy was used for the treatment of acute cellular rejection in both groups.

Results:  Baseline characteristics were similar between groups. At one yr, there was no significant difference in the mean incidence of acute cellular rejection (≥3A) episodes between the CS‐avoidance and control groups, 0.81 ± 1.05 and 1.07 ± 1.03, respectively. Importantly, the CS‐avoidance patients had significant improvement in muscle strength and less bone loss compared with the control patients during the first six months post‐transplant.

Conclusions:  CS‐avoidance regimen with Thymoglobulin induction appeared to be safe and effective in cardiac transplantation. Further studies are required to demonstrate the long‐term safety and benefits of such a regimen.
Association of CD94/NKG2A, CD94/NKG2C, and its ligand HLA‐E polymorphisms with Behcet’s disease
Authors: Seo J. , Park J. S. , Nam J. H. , Bang D. , Sohn S. , Lee E. S. , Park K. S.
Published: August 2007

Inhibitory CD94/NKG2A and activating CD94/NKG2C receptors are expressed on natural killer, CD4, and CD8 T cells and recognize human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐E, resulting in the modulation of cytotoxic activity and cytokine production. An imbalance in cytotoxic activity and cytokine production has been implicated in Behcet’s disease (BD). The results of this study showed that the NKG2A c.‐4258*C, c.338‐90*G, and CD94 c.‐134*T alleles (P= 0.015, OR = 0.8; P < 0.0001, OR = 0.5; and P= 0.034, OR = 0.8, respectively) were associated with decreased risk and that NKG2A c.284‐67_‐62del, c.1077*C, and the activating receptor, NKG2C c.305*T were not associated with 345 patients with BD. But a significant difference in NKG2C c.305*T was detected among BD patients with ocular lesions and arthritis (P < 0.0001, OR = 2.1 and P= 0.0001, OR = 1.8, respectively). We already showed in our previous research that HLA‐E*0101 also appears to contribute to a reduction in risk through the inhibitory CD94/NKG2A‐mediated immune response. This result led us to the analyses of the combined risk of the HLA‐E and the NKG2A for BD. Individuals harboring HLA‐E*0101, NKG2A c.‐4258*C, and c.338‐90*G evidenced a reduced risk of BD compared with healthy controls (21.1% vs 40.1%, P < 0.0001, OR = 0.4). By way of contrast, individuals without the HLA‐E*0101, NKG2A c.‐4258*C, and c.338‐90*G alleles evidenced a twofold increased risk of BD (P= 0.014, OR = 2.0). Individuals without HLA‐E*0101, NKG2A c.‐4258*G/*G, and c.338‐90*G evidenced a 4.8‐fold increase in BD risk (P= 0.0002, OR = 4.8). Although the effects of these single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) remain unclear, our results indicate that the SNPs of the inhibitory receptor CD94/NKG2A and its haplotypes, as well as its ligand HLA‐E, are associated with BD immune systems.
Unexpected effects of donor gender on the storage of liquid plasma
Authors: Norda R. , Knutson F. , Berseus O. , Åkerblom O. , Nilsson‐Ekdahl K. , Stegmayr B. , Nilsson B.
Published: August 2007

Background  Swedish regulations in effect since 2006 allow the storage of plasma for transfusion up to 14 days at 2–6 °C and for 3 years at ≤ –30 °C. In this study, the quality of currently used plasma components was investigated.

Materials and Methods  Plasma components, prepared from whole blood or by apheresis, either leucocyte depleted or not leucocyte depleted, were stored at 2–6 °C as liquid plasma or as thawed fresh‐frozen plasma; 31% were from female donors. Concentration, function and activation markers of the plasma coagulation systems were investigated during storage for up to 42 days.

Results  Cold‐induced contact activation was the dominant storage lesion, occurring earlier and at higher frequency in plasma from females. Increased kallikrein‐like activity led to changes in activated partial thromboplastin time, prothrombin time, protein C and C1 inhibitor (C1INH). C1INH function dropped to 53% on Day 14 in cold‐activated plasma components.

Conclusion  Contact activation may be triggered before Day 14, especially in plasma from females, and may progress as a result of the consumption of C1INH. The data suggest that lack of cold‐induced contact activation may be an important quality criterion. To achieve this, plasma from male donors could be selected for transfusion and the storage time limited to 7 days.
Effect of fungicides, endophytes and fungal filtrates on in vitro growth of Spanish isolates of Gremmeniella abietina
Authors: Santamaría O. , González M. A. , Pajares J. A. , Diez J. J.
Published: August 2007

The effect of eight fungicides and 15 endophytes isolated from twigs of healthy Pinus halepensis trees on the growth rate of four Spanish isolates of the pathogen Gremmeniella abietina was evaluated in vitro. In the fungicide experiments, four doses of each fungicide tested were added to the growth medium. In the endophyte experiments, dual cultures endophyte‐pathogen were paired in Petri dishes. Furthermore, growth of three G. abietina isolates was evaluated on malt agar with pine needle extract amended with filtrates from cultures of endophyte E14, which produced a brownish compound apparently inhibiting G. abietina growth. The results obtained suggested that chlorothalonil and daconil were the most suitable fungicides at low doses to reduce growth of G. abietina isolates from Spain. Four of the endophytes tested in vitro showed strong antagonistic activity against G. abietina and deserve further testing in vivo. The endophyte E14 produced in vitro a brownish compound which almost completely inhibited mycelial growth of G. abietina isolates from Spain.
Var. raubitschekii of Trichophyton rubrum as a cause of tinea in Germany
Authors: Brasch Jochen
Published: August 2007

Trichophyton raubitschekii was originally described as a distinct dermatophyte species but is now classified as a variant of Trichophyton rubrum. The variant raubitschekii differs from common strains of T. rubrum with regard to morphology, physiology, epidemiology and patterns of infection. It is mostly found in Africa, Asia and South America, but the literature and our observations reveal that seven patients (four men, three women) with T. rubrum var. raubitschekii‐infections were meanwhile seen in Germany. All of them were born in Africa and they suffered from tinea corporis or tinea pedum, but onychomycosis was seen as well. All strains matched the typical characteristics of the variant raubitschekii except that one strain had a minimal capacity to perforate hair. Until now, the strains of T. rubrum var. raubitschekii isolated in Germany were probably imported by migration of the patients and so far no further spreading within Germany was observed. However, such a spreading is likely to occur in the future and therefore a monitoring is needed. This can be achieved only when the variant raubitschekii is looked for in the laboratories and is reported with its full name.
The High‐producing Dairy Cow and its Reproductive Performance
Authors: Dobson H , Smith RF , Royal MD , Knight CH , Sheldon IM
Published: August 2007

Contents

There is evidence that the reproductive performance of dairy cows has declined as milk yields have increased over the last 40 years. Identifying the precise cause(s) of this problem may provide focused solutions. Intensive genetic selection for very high yields has reduced fertility, due mainly to an increase in postpartum clinical problems, poor expression of oestrus, defective oocytes/embryos and uterine infections. It is a challenge to solve the problem by getting enough food into these cows to meet the high demands of peak milk yields in early lactation, as well as providing the considerable veterinary attention required in the early period after calving. Both these aspects also pose welfare issues. A better solution would be to make genetic and management changes to increase the persistency of lactations to reduce the number and intensity of clinical risk periods throughout a cow's life without compromising milk output.
Reproduction in the Water Buffalo
Authors: Presicce GA
Published: August 2007

Contents

In this paper, an account of various aspects related to buffalo reproduction are given. Fundamental concepts of the reproductive physiology as well as manipulation of the reproductive function will be presented. This will include an overview of the most recent developments of the oestrous cycle and the ovulation control, new strategies of reproductive management for the improvement of genetic gain and the application of newly developed reproductive technologies, such as in vitro embryo production, embryo and sperm sexing and cloning.
Hepatic conversion of angiotensin I and the portal hypertensive response to angiotensin II in normal and regenerating liver
Authors: Carvalho Leda Teixeira , Nascimento Écio Alves , Teixeira Felipe Oliveira , Nagaoka Márcia Regina , Borges Durval Rosa , Kouyoumdjian Maria
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  Angiotensin I (AI) and angiotensin II (AII) induce a portal hypertensive response (PHR) and the liver is able to convert AI into AII to trough the action of the angiotensin‐converting enzyme (ACE). Our purpose was to characterize angiotensin I liver conversion.

Methods:  AI, AII or angiotensin (1–7) were used in monovascular or bivascular perfusions.

Results:  The maximum gain in portal pressure induced by AII took place significantly earlier (P = 0.031) than that occurring after an equimolar AI infusion. The AI‐induced PHR was abolished both by captopril or losartan, whereas the AII‐induced PHR was not affected by captopril, but was abolished by losartan. Angiotensin (1–7) has no hemodynamic effect in the perfused liver. After partial hepatectomy, the AII–PHR pattern changes from a rapid return to baseline values to a pattern where there was no return to baseline values (3–7 days ex‐surgery). In the bivascular perfusion system when AII was infused in the arterial branch in the retrograde mode of perfusion (peptide available only to the periportal zone), the PHR was at least 50% of that obtained when the prograde mode was used (peptide available to the periportal and perivenous zones).

Conclusion:  AI does not induce PHR; this effect is a result of its mandatory conversion into AII by the ACE and the sequential action of AII on the AII receptor type 1 located in the hepatic periportal zone. AII induced PHR pattern changes during liver regeneration.
Intraductal chilled saline perfusion to prevent bile duct injury during percutaneous radiofrequency ablation for hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Ohnishi Takaya , Yasuda Ichiro , Nishigaki Youichi , Hayashi Hideki , Otsuji Kentaro , Mukai Tsuyoshi , Enya Masamichi , Omar Salem , Soehendra Nib , Tomita Eiichi , Moriwaki Hisataka
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a promising, minimally invasive treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, thermal injury sometimes occurs in the bile duct, potentially leading to a critical situation. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether bile duct injury is reduced by an intraductal chilled saline perfusion (ICSP) through a nasobiliary tube during RFA for HCC.

Patients and Methods:  The baseline incidence of bile duct injury at Gifu Municipal Hospital was 3.1% (13 patients) in 424 patients with HCC treated by percutaneous RFA. In all patients, the tumor was within 5 mm of the central bile duct on CT images. The incidence of bile duct injury was 46% among the 28 selected patients whose tumor was close to the central bile duct. To prevent complications in such high‐risk patients, we placed a nasobiliary tube endoscopically before RFA, and performed ICSP during RFA. Forty consecutive patients with tumors close to the central bile duct were enrolled in this study.

Results:  Of the 40 enrolled patients, only one had biliary injury, whereas the remaining 39 patients were able to avoid it. The incidence of biliary injury was significantly reduced in the ICSP group (1/40, 2.5%) compared to that in the control group (13/28, 46%) (P < 0.0001). Moreover, the liver function 6 months after RFA was also better preserved in the ICSP group according to Child–Pugh grading, thus resulting in a better clinical outcome.

Conclusions:  ICSP through a nasobiliary tube is a potential intervention method to prevent biliary injury by percutaneous RFA.
Role of diclofenac in reducing post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis
Authors: Khoshbaten Manouchehr , Khorram Homayoun , Madad Leili , Ehsani Ardakani Mohammad Javad , Farzin Haleh , Zali Mohammmad Reza
Published: August 2007

Background and Aims:  Acute pancreatitis following endoscopic retrograde cholangiography presents a unique opportunity for prophylaxis and early modification of the disease process because the initial triggering event is temporally well defined and takes place in the hospital. We report a prospective, single‐center, randomized, double‐blind controlled trial to determine if rectal diclofenac reduces the incidence of pancreatitis following cholangiopancreatography.

Methods:  Entry to the trial was restricted to patients who underwent endoscopic retrograde pancreatography. Immediately after endoscopy, patients were given a suppository containing either 100 mg diclofenac or placebo. Estimation of serum amylase level and clinical evaluation were performed in all patients.

Results:  One hundred patients entered the trial, and 50 received rectal diclofenac. Fifteen patients developed pancreatitis (15%), of whom two received rectal diclofenac and 13 received placebo (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:  This trial shows that rectal diclofenac given immediately after endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography can reduce the incidence of acute pancreatitis.
Lamivudine/pegylated interferon alfa‐2b sequential combination therapy compared with lamivudine monotherapy in HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B
Authors: Vassiliadis Themistoklis , Tziomalos Konstantinos , Patsiaoura Kalliopi , Zagris Thomas , Giouleme Olga , Soufleris Konstantinos , Grammatikos Nikolaos , Theodoropoulos Konstantinos , Mpoumponaris Alexandros , Dona Konstantina , Zezos Petros , Nikolaidis Nikolaos , Orfanou‐Koumerkeridou Eleni , Balaska Aikaterini , Eugenidis Nikolaos
Published: August 2007

Background and Aim:  Monotherapy has been proven insufficient in achieving sustained control of chronic hepatitis B. We aimed to assess the efficacy of combined sequential administration of lamivudine and pegylated interferon alfa‐2b in patients with hepatitis Be antigen (HBeAg)‐negative chronic hepatitis B.

Methods:  Eighteen patients were given sequential combination treatment starting with 3 months of lamivudine monotherapy followed by 9 months of pegylated interferon alfa‐2b (after a 3‐month period of concomitant administration of the two drugs) and 24 patients received lamivudine monotherapy.

Results:  At the end of treatment, 88.9% of the patients who received sequential combination treatment and 70.8% of those who received lamivudine monotherapy had hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA levels below 400 copies/mL (P = not significant). At the end of treatment, 72.2% of the patients who received sequential combination treatment and 70.8% of those who received lamivudine monotherapy achieved alanine aminotransferase normalization (P = not significant). After 12 months of follow up, 33.3% of the patients who received sequential combination treatment and 16.7% of those who received lamivudine monotherapy had HBV‐DNA levels below 400 copies/mL (P = 0.4). After 12 months of follow up, 72.2% of the patients who received sequential combination treatment and 25.0% of those who received lamivudine monotherapy had normal alanine aminotransferase levels (P < 0.01). Twenty‐five percent of the patients in the lamivudine monotherapy group had virological breakthrough compared to none in the sequential combination treatment group (P = 0.06).

Conclusions:  Sequential combination treatment is able to improve sustained biochemical response rates and prevent the emergence of lamivudine‐resistant mutants in patients with HBeAg‐negative chronic hepatitis B.
Pathology of glomerular deposition diseases
Authors: Joh Kensuke
Published: August 2007

In routine diagnosis on renal biopsy, one of the confusing fields for pathological diagnoses is the glomerulopathies with fibrillary structure. The primary glomerulopathies with a deposit of ultrastructural fibrillary structure, which are negative for Congo‐red stain but positive for immunoglobulins, include fibrillary glomerulonephritis and immunotactoid glomerulopathy. Several paraproteinemias including cryoglobulinemia, monoclonal gammopathy, and light chain deposition disease as well as hematopoietic disorders including plasmacytoma, plasma cell dyscrasia, and B cell lymphoproliferative disorders involve glomerulopathy with an ultrastructural fibrillary structure. A rare glomerulopathy with fibrillary structure that stains negative for Congo‐red as well as for immunoglobulins has been also reported. The pathological diagnoses of these glomerulopathies can include either glomerular diseases, or paraproteinemic diseases, or hematopoietic diseases. The terminology is still confusing when glomerular diseases can be combined with paraproteinemic diseases and/or hematopoietic diseases. Therefore, the generic term, ‘glomerular deposition disease’ (GDD), has been proposed by pathologists with a requirement for clinicians to detect autoantibodies, paraproteins as well as to carry out a bone marrow check. An attempt has been made to rearrange the diseases with related disorders of fibrillary deposits, based on detailed clinical and pathological finding and to elucidate the correlation between GDD, paraproteinemia, and hematopoietic disorder.
D2‐40‐positive solitary fibrous tumors of the pleura: Diagnostic pitfall of biopsy specimen
Authors: Naito Yoichi , Ishii Genichiro , Kawai Osamu , Hasebe Takahiro , Nishiwaki Yutaka , Nagai Kanji , Ochiai Atsushi
Published: August 2007

Solitary fibrous tumor of the pleura (SFTP) is an uncommon spindle‐cell neoplasm and is sometimes confused with other spindle‐cell tumors, such as sarcomatoid mesotheliomas. D2‐40 is a new monoclonal antibody recognizing podoplanin and several studies have confirmed the reliability of D2‐40 in the diagnosis of pleural mesothelioma. The authors encountered a case of SFTP that was immunoreactive to D2‐40. A 56‐year‐old woman was admitted to hospital because of an abnormal shadow on a chest X‐ray. Percutaneous needle biopsy indicated a spindle‐cell tumor showing positive immunoreactivity for CD34, supporting the diagnosis of SFTP. However, the tumor was also immunoreactive to D2‐40 and thus malignant mesothelioma could not be ruled out. The tumor was surgically resected to make a definitive pathological diagnosis. The tumor had a patternless architecture and immunohistochemistry was positive for CD34 and D2‐40 but was negative for calretinin and cytokeratin 5/6. Therefore a pathological diagnosis of SFTP was made. An additional six tumors diagnosed as SFTP were also tested. Focal immunoreactivity to D2‐40 was positive in three out of seven cases, including the first case. Care is required in diagnosing biopsy specimens of D2‐40‐positive pleural spindle‐cell tumors, especially in making the differential diagnosis between SFTP and malignant mesothelioma.
Nursing competency and organizational climate as perceived by staff nurses in a Chinese university hospital
Authors: Ying Liu , Kunaviktikul Wipada , Tonmukayakal Ouyporn
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Nursing competency is important to ensure patient safety and improve the quality of nursing care. Based on competency‐based human resource management strategies, the organizational climate can positively influence nursing competency. However, a review of the literature indicated that there were no studies about the relationship between nursing competency and organizational climate in the People's Republic of China. This descriptive, correlational study examined the relationship between nursing competency and the organizational climate. The sample consisted of 243 staff nurses who completed the questionnaire worked at one university hospital in Liao Ning Province. The findings showed that there was a significantly moderate positive relationship between nursing competency and organizational climate. The study results suggested that Chinese nurse managers should maintain and provide a positive organizational climate to improve nursing competency.
Predictors of family caregivers' burden and quality of life when providing care for a family member with schizophrenia in the People's Republic of China
Authors: Li Jufang , Lambert Clinton E. , Lambert Vickie A.
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Limited research has been undertaken regarding family caregivers' burden and quality of life (QOL) when providing care for a family member with schizophrenia in the People's Republic of China. This study examined the following in Chinese families caring for a member with schizophrenia: (i) the level of family caregivers' burden and QOL; (ii) the relationships among the demographic characteristics of family caregivers, the demographic characteristics of family members with schizophrenia, and family caregivers' burden and QOL; and (iii) the best predictors of family caregivers' burden and QOL. The findings suggest that family caregivers suffer a high level of burden when caring for a family member with schizophrenia. Numerous significant correlations were found among the variables. The best predictor of family caregivers' burden was found to be their level of education, while the best predictors of family caregivers' QOL were physical health and household income.
Eucalypt plantings on farms benefit woodland birds in south‐eastern Australia
Authors: KAVANAGH RODNEY P. , STANTON MATTHEW A. , HERRING MATTHEW W.
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Most of the original forest and woodland cover on the western slopes of New South Wales and the northern plains of Victoria has been cleared for agriculture (wheat, sheep and cattle) and what remains is highly fragmented and modified by a long history of disturbance. Over the past three decades, native eucalypt trees and shrubs have been planted extensively in a part of this region to provide a range of environmental benefits. Our aim was to determine the extent to which these plantings could improve biological diversity in agricultural landscapes in south‐eastern Australia and to identify the variables influencing their effectiveness. We sampled birds at 120 sites encompassing the range of available patch sizes, stand ages, floristic and structural conditions, and habitat attributes for revegetated areas and remnants of native vegetation, and we compared these to nearby paddocks. Eucalypt plantings were found to provide significant improvements in bird population density compared with cleared or sparsely treed paddocks, and mixed eucalypt and shrub plantings had similar bird communities to remnant native forest and woodland in the region. Birds displayed a strong response to patch size, with both larger (≥5–20 ha) eucalypt plantings and larger (≥5–20 ha) remnants having more species and more individuals per unit area than smaller (<5 ha) patches of these vegetation types. Older (10–25 years) plantings had more bird species and individuals than young (<10 years) plantings. The distance from remnant forest and woodland (habitat connectivity) appeared to be an important variable influencing bird species richness in eucalypt plantings. The main differences were due to the greater numbers of species classified as woodland‐dependent in the larger‐sized patches of plantings and remnants. Eucalypt plantings provided useful habitat for at least 10 declining woodland‐dependent species, notably for the Speckled Warbler, Red‐capped Robin and Rufous Whistler. The Brown Treecreeper and Dusky Woodswallow appeared to be the species most limited by the extent of remnant forest and woodland in the region. Plantings of all shapes and sizes, especially those larger than 5 ha, have an important role to play in providing habitat for many bird species. Restoration efforts are more likely to be successful if eucalypt plantings are established near existing remnant vegetation.
Abundance, species richness and feeding preferences of introduced molluscs in native grasslands of Victoria, Australia
Authors: HOLLAND KELLY D. , MCDONNELL MARK J. , WILLIAMS NICHOLAS S. G.
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Introduced molluscs have invaded endangered, remnant native grasslands of south‐eastern Australia, but few studies have investigated their distribution, abundance or potential impact. Molluscs were surveyed in grassland sites across an urban to rural transect west of Melbourne, Australia. It was confirmed that several introduced mollusc species have invaded these areas. Three snail and five slug species were identified, none of which was native to Australia. The most common species was the brown field slug (Deroceras panormitanum). Mollusc capture and species richness were positively related to the degree of urbanization in the surrounding landscape. There was also a negative relationship with fire frequency. Feeding trials revealed selective herbivory by the black‐keeled slug (Milax gagates) among native plants. Anecdotal evidence that variable glycine (Glycine tabacina) and button wrinklewort (Rutidosis leptorrhynchoides) are palatable to molluscs was supported. Mollusc herbivory may potentially lead to reduced fitness of palatable species, and changes in community composition and structure.
Associations between wasp communities and forest structure: Do strong local patterns hold across landscapes?
Authors: LASSAU SCOTT A. , HOCHULI DIETER F.
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Forest structure and habitat complexity have been used extensively to predict the distribution and abundance of insect assemblages in forest ecosystems. We tested empirically derived predictions of strong, consistent relationships between wasp assemblages and habitat complexity, using both field assessments and vegetation indices from remote sensing as measures of habitat complexity. Wasp samples from 26 paired ‘high and low’ complexity sites in two forests approximately 70 km apart, were compared with normalized difference vegetation indices (NDVIs) derived from multispectral videography of the survey sites. We describe a strong unequivocal link between habitat complexity and wasp communities, the patterns holding over coarse and fine landscape scales. NDVIs were also excellent predictors of habitat complexity and hence wasp community patterns. Sites with greater NDVIs consistently supported a greater abundance and species richness, and a different composition of wasps to sites with low NDVIs. Using vegetation indices from remote sensing to gauge habitat complexity has significant potential for ecosystem modelling and rapid biodiversity assessment.
Grassland invertebrate assemblages in managed landscapes: Effect of host plant and microhabitat architecture
Authors: REID ADELE M. , HOCHULI DIETER F.
Published: August 2007

Abstract Grasslands are often considered as two‐dimensional habitats rather than complex, multilayered habitats. However, native grasslands are complex habitats, with multiple layers of annual and perennial grasses, sedges, shrubs and mosses. Vegetation complexity, including plant type, quality and three‐dimensional structure is important for providing a variety of food and habitat resources for insects. Grazing by domestic livestock can affect these processes through the loss or fragmentation of habitats, as well as altering the vertical and horizontal vegetation structure. This study aimed to investigate the role of host plants and microhabitat architecture for determining foliage invertebrate assemblages. Different plant species supported distinct invertebrate assemblages and less complex host plants supported fewer invertebrate individuals and species. Manipulations of plant architecture changed the species composition of invertebrates, with most species found in more complex vegetation. This study illustrates the importance of host diversity and pasture complexity for invertebrate communities. Management practices that encourage a heterogeneous environment with diverse and structurally complex pastures should also sustain a more diverse and functional invertebrate assemblage.
Larval competition within seeds: From the behaviour process to the ecological outcome in the seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus
Authors: GUEDES RAUL N. C. , GUEDES NELSA M. P. , SMITH ROBERT H.
Published: August 2007

Abstract  Environmental conditions experienced by organisms during development can have profound impacts on adult fitness and behaviour. Internally feeding larvae unable to leave the seed selected by their mother face limitations of resource suitability and competition. The host seed may guide the larval behaviour within the seed leading to differential intensity of competition and determining its process and outcome, which varies in strains of the legume seed beetle Callosobruchus maculatus (Coleoptera: Bruchidae). However, the intensity, process and outcome of larval competition in different hosts have yet to be simultaneously considered, the objective of the present study. Here we assessed the intensity, process and outcome of intrastrain larval competition as related to host type, and how they are interrelated. Larval competition was faced with two distinct strategies – scramble and contest competition depending on the insect strain and host seed species. The intensity of competition did not show any straight link with the process and outcome of competition. Only a single strain showed a contest competition process with likely interference between larvae, while the four other strains studied showed the process of scramble competition. The process of scramble competition, however, led to variable outcomes in mung beans based on larval competition curves. Such differences were not apparent on cowpea seeds and either the plateau or the peak expected on the larval fitness curves were not reached preventing the distinction of the competition outcome, a likely consequence of the egg laying behaviour of these strains limiting the maximum number of eggs laid per seed. Seed host species rather than seed size are the likely cause of the differences observed from the initial expectation. The strain showing the process of contest competition increased larval fitness with density of larvae emerged per seed regardless of the host species, an unexpected outcome based on theoretical models. In this case the egg laying behaviour of the adult female is probably the main fitness determinant of its progeny.
Molecular analysis of the distribution and phylogeny of the soxB gene among sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria – evolution of the Sox sulfur oxidation enzyme system
Authors: Meyer Birte , Imhoff Johannes F. , Kuever Jan
Published: August 2007

The soxB gene encodes the SoxB component of the periplasmic thiosulfate‐oxidizing Sox enzyme complex, which has been proposed to be widespread among the various phylogenetic groups of sulfur‐oxidizing bacteria (SOB) that convert thiosulfate to sulfate with and without the formation of sulfur globules as intermediate. Indeed, the comprehensive genetic and genomic analyses presented in the present study identified the soxB gene in 121 phylogenetically and physiologically divergent SOB, including several species for which thiosulfate utilization has not been reported yet. In first support of the previously postulated general involvement of components of the Sox enzyme complex in the thiosulfate oxidation process of sulfur‐storing SOB, the soxB gene was detected in all investigated photo‐ and chemotrophic species that form sulfur globules during thiosulfate oxidation (Chromatiaceae, Chlorobiaceae, Ectothiorhodospiraceae, Thiothrix, Beggiatoa, Thiobacillus, invertebrate symbionts and free‐living relatives). The SoxB phylogeny reflected the major 16S rRNA gene‐based phylogenetic lineages of the investigated SOB, although topological discrepancies indicated several events of lateral soxB gene transfer among the SOB, e.g. its independent acquisition by the anaerobic anoxygenic phototrophic lineages from different chemotrophic donor lineages. A putative scenario for the proteobacterial origin and evolution of the Sox enzyme system in SOB is presented considering the phylogenetic, genomic (sox gene cluster composition) and geochemical data.
Self‐Esteem and Extrinsic Career Success: Test of a Dynamic Model
Authors: Kammeyer‐Mueller John D. , Judge Timothy A. , Piccolo Ronald F.
Published: August 2007

It has been proposed that one's self‐esteem is both a cause and a consequence of one's extrinsic career success, but empirical research examining the direction of these effects is lacking. We tested a model which examines the relationships among self‐esteem, education, occupational prestige, and income over a span of seven years during early careers. We use social identity theory to propose that self‐esteem will be affected by extrinsic career success, and self‐consistency theory to propose that extrinsic career success will be affected by self‐esteem. Our results, based on a cross‐lagged regression design, suggest that self‐esteem increases occupational prestige (β= .22), and income (β= .22), but career outcomes did not alter self‐esteem. Implications of these results for the study of self‐esteem and careers are explored.

Que l’estime de soi d’une personne soit à la fois une cause et une conséquence de son succès externe en termes de carrière est établi, mais les recherches empiriques examinant la direction de ces effets manquent. Nous testons un modèle examinant les relations entre l’estime de soi, l’éducation, le prestige professionnel et le revenu sur une durée de 7 ans à partir du début de carrière. Nous nous référons à la théorie de l’identité sociale pour montrer que l’estime de soi est affectée par un succès externe intervenant dans la carrière, et la théorie de consistance de soi pour montrer que ce succès externe est affecté par l’estime de soi. Nos résultats, basés sur une analyse de régression croisée, montrent que l’estime de soi accroît le prestige professionnel (b = .22) et les revenus (b = .22), mais les résultats relatifs à la carrière n’affectent pas l’estime de soi. Les implications de ces résultats pour l’étude de l’estime de soi et de la carrière sont explorées.
Palliative and supportive needs of older adults with heart failure
Authors: Cortis J. D. , Williams A.
Published: August 2007

Background:  Chronic heart failure (CHF) affects older people and carries a heavy burden in terms of poor prognosis and quality of life. Palliative and supportive care services are being advocated in the UK to relieve that burden but older people’s needs require further understanding to ensure effective service models.

Aim:  To explore the experiences of older adults with CHF to gain a deeper understanding of their palliative and supportive needs and the value of possible interventions.

Methods:  This qualitative study collected data from ten patients with CHF in New York Heart Association Classes II to IV, aged 80–90 years, attending a support programme. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted and transcripts were analysed using constant comparative analysis.

Findings:  The narratives revealed the consequences of living with heart failure in terms of physical symptoms and disability, psychological sequalae, social isolation and existential concerns. The variety of ways in which participants adjusted to and coped with these consequences was revealed in terms of their approach to their illness, and utilizing the resources available to them, including the support programme. Needs were conceptualized in terms of requirements to supplement deficits in coping resources.

Conclusions:  Services designed to meet palliative and supportive needs of older people should aim to identify individual coping strategies and resources and highlight deficits in order to target appropriate interventions.
Accounting losses and earnings conservatism: evidence from Australian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles
Authors: Balkrishna Harishankar , Coulton Jeffrey J. , Taylor Stephen L.
Published: August 2007

We provide evidence on three important aspects of Australian financial reporting; namely, the characteristics of losses, the extent to which Australian firms’ earnings are conditionally conservative (i.e. bad news is reflected in earnings more quickly than good news) and the extent to which losses reflect incrementally greater conditional conservatism. We find evidence that loss incidence in Australia is frequent, with around 40 per cent of the sample firm‐years from 1993 to 2003 being losses. Losses are also surprisingly persistent, and the probability of loss reversal declines monotonically as the history of losses extends. Although conditional conservatism is also shown to be a pervasive aspect of Australian Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, we demonstrate that it is more evident among loss observations. This result is robust across different methods of capturing conditional conservatism, and supports the conclusion that the relatively high frequency of losses is, at least in part, a reflection of conservative reporting.
Identification with television newscasters and Korean college students' voting intentions and political activities
Authors: Ryu Sungjin , Kline Susan , Kim Jinsuk
Published: August 2007

In 2004, many prominent newscasters ran as candidates in the Korean general election and won. The present study examines whether young voters' identification with newscasters was significantly associated with Korean voting behaviour as well as with other forms of political participation. Analysis of 270 respondents showed that identification with newscasters contributed significantly to young Koreans' intentions to vote for newscasters and to their active involvement in other forms of campaign participation, beyond the effects of age, gender, and level of political interest. Additionally, news media exposure, perception of newscaster behaviours, emotional involvement, surveillance motivation and entertainment motivation were all positively related to voters' identification with newscasters.
Water use and salinity in the Murray–Darling Basin: A state‐contingent model*
Authors: Adamson David , Mallawaarachchi Thilak , Quiggin John
Published: August 2007

The supply of water for irrigation is subject to climatic and policy uncertainty. The object of the present paper is to show how the linear and non‐linear programming models commonly used in modelling problems such as those arising in the Murray–Darling Basin may be adapted to incorporate a state‐contingent representation of uncertainty. Estimates showing the potential value of improved water use are also derived.
Historical regulation of Victoria's water sector: A case of government failure?*
Authors: Harris E.
Published: August 2007

This paper analyses the role of government failure in Victoria's water sector between 1905 and 1984 as evidenced in the rise of in‐stream salinity. It will be shown that high levels of salinity can, in part, be attributed to regulatory failure for two reasons. First, the method of water allocation, a compulsory minimum charge with the marginal cost of water being zero, encouraged over watering, resulting in increased water tables via groundwater recharge. Second, the government did not provide adequate finance for construction of appropriate removal of saline drainage water, and thereby allowed increasing in‐stream salinity.
Pricing Sydney water*
Authors: Grafton R. Quentin , Kompas Tom
Published: August 2007

The paper estimates an aggregate daily water demand for Sydney using rainfall, temperature, and price data from 2001 to 2005, and a dummy variable to account for reductions in demand following the introduction of water restrictions in October 2003. Analyses based on the estimated price elasticity, and also values one and two standard errors above and below this estimate, are used to model the effects of different pricing and water supply scenarios. The simulations indicate that without a fundamental change in water policy (pricing and supply) Sydney faces the possibility of critical water shortages in the short‐ to medium‐term should there be a continuation of low rainfall events.