bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CDK2-dependent activation of PARP-1 is required for hormonal gene regulation in breast cancer cells
Authors: Wright Roni H.G. , Castellano Giancarlo , Bonet Jaume , Le Dily Francois , Font-Mateu Jofre , Ballaré Cecilia , Nacht A. Silvina , Soronellas Daniel , Oliva Baldo , Beato Miguel
Published: September 2012

Eukaryotic gene regulation implies that transcription factors gain access to genomic information via poorly understood processes involving activation and targeting of kinases, histone-modifying enzymes, and chromatin remodelers to chromatin. Here we report that progestin gene regulation in breast cancer cells requires a rapid and transient increase in poly-(ADP)-ribose (PAR), accompanied by a dramatic decrease of cellular NAD that could have broad implications in cell physiology. This rapid increase in nuclear PARylation is mediated by activation of PAR polymerase PARP-1 as a result of phosphorylation by cyclin-dependent kinase CDK2. Hormone-dependent phosphorylation of PARP-1 by CDK2, within the catalytic domain, enhances its enzymatic capabilities. Activated PARP-1 contributes to the displacement of histone H1 and is essential for regulation of the majority of hormone-responsive genes and for the effect of progestins on cell cycle progression. Both global chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) coupled with deep sequencing (ChIP-seq) and gene expression analysis show a strong overlap between PARP-1 and CDK2. Thus, progestin gene regulation involves a novel signaling pathway that connects CDK2-dependent activation of PARP-1 with histone H1 displacement. Given the multiplicity of PARP targets, this new pathway could be used for the pharmacological management of breast cancer.
Spatially and genetically distinct control of seed germination by phytochromes A and B
Authors: Lee Keun Pyo , Piskurewicz Urszula , Turečková Veronika , Carat Solenne , Chappuis Richard , Strnad Miroslav , Fankhauser Christian , Lopez-Molina Luis
Published: September 2012

Phytochromes phyB and phyA mediate a remarkable developmental switch whereby, early upon seed imbibition, canopy light prevents phyB-dependent germination, whereas later on, it stimulates phyA-dependent germination. Using a seed coat bedding assay where the growth of dissected embryos is monitored under the influence of dissected endosperm, allowing combinatorial use of mutant embryos and endosperm, we show that canopy light specifically inactivates phyB activity in the endosperm to override phyA-dependent signaling in the embryo. This interference involves abscisic acid (ABA) release from the endosperm and distinct spatial activities of phytochrome signaling components. Under the canopy, endospermic ABA opposes phyA signaling through the transcription factor (TF) ABI5, which shares with the TF PIF1 several target genes that negatively regulate germination in the embryo. ABI5 enhances the expression of phytochrome signaling genes PIF1, SOMNUS, GAI, and RGA, but also of ABA and gibberellic acid (GA) metabolic genes. Over time, weaker ABA-dependent responses eventually enable phyA-dependent germination, a distinct type of germination driven solely by embryonic growth.
Circuit Mapping by Ultraviolet Uncaging of Glutamate: Figure 1.
Authors: Shepherd Gordon M.G.
Published: September 2012

In laser photostimulation, small clusters of neurons in brain slices are induced to fire action potentials by focal glutamate uncaging, and synaptic connectivity between photoexcited presynaptic neurons and individual postsynaptic neurons is assessed by intracellular recording of synaptic events. With a scanner, this process can be repeated sequentially across a patterned array of stimulus locations, generating maps of neurons’ local sources of synaptic inputs. Laser scanning photostimulation (LSPS) based on patterned glutamate uncaging offers an efficient, quantitative, optical-electrophysiological way to map synaptic circuits in brain slices. The efficacy of glutamate-based photostimulation for circuit mapping (in contrast to electrical stimulation) derives from the ability to stimulate neurons with high precision and speed, and without stimulating axons of passage. This protocol describes the components, assembly, and operation of a laser scanning microscope for ultraviolet (UV) uncaging, along with experimental methods for circuit mapping in brain slices. It presents a general approach and a set of guidelines for quantitative circuit mapping using “standard” LSPS methods based on single-photon glutamate uncaging using a UV laser, a pair of scanning mirror galvanometers, a patch-clamp setup, and open-source data acquisition software.
Labeling Proteins for Single-Molecule FRET: Figure 1.
Authors: Joo Chirlmin , Ha Taekjip
Published: September 2012

Single-molecule (sm) fluorescence detection is a powerful method for studying biological events without time and population averaging. Förster (fluorescence) resonance energy transfer (FRET) is a spectroscopic technique for measuring distances in the 30–80 Å range in which excitation energy of a donor molecule is transferred to an acceptor via interaction between two induced dipoles. A variant of smFRET is based on total internal reflection (TIR) microscopy. This protocol describes the labeling of protein for smFRET with TIR microscopy. It is based on a labeling procedure for E. coli Rep helicase. A different assay (e.g., different chemical conditions) may be required for other proteins.
SV40 In Vitro Packaging: A Pseudovirion Gene Delivery System
Authors: Kimchi-Sarfaty Chava , Gottesman Michael M.
Published: September 2012

Nuclear extracts of Spodoptera frugiperda (Sf9) insect cells infected with baculoviruses encode the simian virus 40 (SV40) major coat protein (VP1). As described in this protocol, these extracts are able to package supercoiled plasmid DNA or RNA interference (RNAi) sequences in the presence of MgCl2, CaCl2, and ATP, thus forming SV40 pseudovirions in vitro. Such packaging has numerous advantages over other viral and nonviral delivery systems. Specifically, it provides a wide host range and high transduction efficiency. The only major disadvantage of this system is low expression per transduced cell observed in vitro, likely a result of DNA trapped in the cytoplasmic compartment of the cell that does not enter the cell nucleus.
RNAi in Cultured Mammalian Cells Using Synthetic siRNAs: Table 1.
Authors: Chang Kenneth , Marran Krista , Valentine Amy , Hannon Gregory J.
Published: September 2012

RNA interference (RNAi) enables sequence-specific, experimentally induced silencing of almost any gene by tapping into innate regulatory mechanisms that are conserved among virtually all eukaryotes. In a typical RNAi experiment, an artificial silencing trigger directs the RNAi pathway toward a target that it would not normally recognize. This is most often an endogenous protein-coding gene, although some noncoding RNAs can also be silenced effectively. The artificial silencing trigger varies; this protocol uses synthetic small interfering RNAs (siRNAs). Lipofectamine 2000 is used to deliver the siRNAs into HEK293 cells. This lipid reagent has proven to be effective for many different cultured mammalian cell lines.
Genetic Systems for Functional Cell Ablation in Drosophila: Figure 1.
Authors: Sweeney Sean T. , Hidalgo Alicia , de Belle J. Steven , Keshishian Haig
Published: September 2012

The selective removal of cells by ablation is a powerful tool in the study of eukaryotic developmental biology, providing much information about the origin, fate, or function of these cells in the developing organism. In Drosophila, three main methods have been used to ablate cells: chemical, genetic, and laser ablation. Each method has its own applicability with regard to developmental stage and the cells to be ablated, and its own limitations. This article describes genetic systems for functional cell ablation in Drosophila. Genetic ablation consists of delivering a toxin or death-inducing gene under the control of a cell-specific enhancer, or by means of the GAL4 system. Because of the wide range of existing enhancers, toxins and death genes can be targeted to virtually any cell of choice, allowing for cell-type-specificity. Genetic ablation is less expensive and less labor-intensive than laser ablation. It allows one to analyze the effects of eliminating every cell of a given type within an embryo, and also allows the examination of populations rather than individuals.
The Precision of Estimates in Stereological Analyses
Authors: West Mark J.
Published: September 2012

When quantifying the total volume, number, length, or surface of morphological features in complex structures such as the brain, it is neither desirable nor feasible to make absolute determinations of these parameters. It would take a lifetime to count all of the neurons or measure the total length of dendrites in many parts of the brain. Estimates based on a relatively small number of samples of even the most complex structures will suffice, if the estimates are unbiased and have a sufficient amount of precision. It is important to have an understanding of what the precision of an estimate actually means and how it can be calculated and altered, to optimize studies with regard to the number of individuals, sections, and probes used in an analysis. An optimal sampling scheme is one that involves a minimum of sampling but still provides enough precision to draw a conclusion with a predetermined level of confidence.
Prevalence and characteristics of depression in mild cognitive impairment: the Sydney Memory and Ageing Study
Authors: Shahnawaz Z. , Reppermund S. , Brodaty H. , Crawford J. D. , Draper B. , Trollor J. N. , Sachdev P. S.
Published: September 2012

Shahnawaz Z, Reppermund S, Brodaty H, Crawford JD, Draper B, Trollor JN, Sachdev PS. Prevalence and characteristics of depression in mild cognitive impairment: the Sydney memory and ageing study.

Objective:  Depression might be a risk factor for dementia. However, little is known about the prevalence of depressive symptoms in mild cognitive impairment (MCI) and whether mood or motivation‐related symptoms are predominant.

Method:  A total of 767 non‐demented community‐dwelling adults aged 70–90 years completed a comprehensive assessment, including neuropsychological testing, and a past psychiatric/medical history interview. Depressive symptoms were assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS) and Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10). Exploratory factor analysis was performed on the GDS and K10 to derive ‘mood’ and ‘motivation’ subscales.

Results:  A total of 290 participants were classified as having MCI and 468 as cognitively normal (CN). Participants with MCI reported more depressive symptoms, and more MCI participants met the cut‐off for clinically significant symptoms, relative to CN participants. Those with amnestic MCI (aMCI), but not non‐amnestic MCI, had more depressive symptoms and were more likely to meet the cut‐off for clinically significant depressive symptoms, relative to CN participants. Participants with MCI reported more mood‐related symptoms than CN participants, while there were no differences between groups on motivation‐related symptoms.

Conclusion:  Individuals with MCI, especially aMCI, endorse more depressive symptoms when compared with cognitively intact individuals. These findings highlight the importance of assessing and treating depressive symptoms in MCI.
Metabolic effects of adjunctive aripiprazole in clozapine‐treated patients with schizophrenia
Authors: Fan X. , Borba C. P. C. , Copeland P. , Hayden D. , Freudenreich O. , Goff D. C. , Henderson D. C.
Published: September 2012

Fan X, Borba CPC, Copeland P, Hayden D, Freudenreich O, Goff DC, Henderson DC. Metabolic effects of adjunctive aripiprazole in clozapine‐treated patients with schizophrenia.

Objective:  This study examined the effects of adjunctive aripiprazole therapy on metabolism in clozapine‐treated patients with schizophrenia.

Method:  In an 8‐week randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study, subjects received either aripiprazole (15 mg/day) or placebo. At baseline and week 8, metabolic parameters were assessed by the frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and whole‐body dual‐energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA).

Results:  Thirty subjects completed the study (16 in the aripiprazole group and 14 in the placebo group). Glucose effectiveness measured by the frequently sampled intravenous glucose tolerance test improved significantly in the aripiprazole group (0.003 ± 0.006 vs. −0.005 ± 0.007/min, P = 0.010). The aripiprazole group showed significant reductions in both plasma low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) levels (−15.1 ± 19.8 vs. 4.4 ± 22.5 mg/dl, P = 0.019) and LDL particle numbers (−376 ± 632 vs. −36 ± 301 nm, P = 0.035). Further, there was a significant reduction in the lean mass (−1125 ± 1620 vs. 607 ± 1578 g, P = 0.011) measured by whole‐body DXA scan in the aripiprazole group. All values were expressed as mean ± standard deviation, aripiprazole vs. placebo.

Conclusion:  Adjunctive therapy with aripiprazole may have some metabolic benefits in clozapine‐treated patients with schizophrenia.
Awash National Park, Ethiopia: use policy, ethnic conflict and sustainable resources conservation in the context of decentralization
Authors: Belay Solomon , Amsalu Aklilu , Abebe Eyualem
Published: September 2012

In response to recent decentralization in Ethiopia, we investigated pressure exerted on Awash National Park (ANP), vis‐a‐vis park resources; causes of park‐related conflicts and the impact of policy on sustainable resources conservation before decentralization (pre‐1995) and after decentralization (post‐1995). The study's aim was to assess the implementation of sustainable resources conservation in terms of use policy and conflicts in protected areas. We sampled a total of 210 respondents by stratified random sampling and group discussion participants and key informants using purposive sampling technique. Our results show that while policy problems were perceived to be the main threats to the park pre‐1995, demand for pasture land and water, resource‐caused conflicts, expansion of private and state farms were identified as main threats to the park post‐1995. Before decentralization (pre‐1995), inequitable resource sharing and poor organizational structures were the main causes of ethnic conflicts, whereas after decentralization, increasing demand for various resources were the main causes of conflict. We recommend experiences from the Simen National Park be tested to the benefit of improving the state of ANP.
Encroachment of open grasslands andAcacia drepanolobiumHarms exB.Y.Sjöstedt habitats byEuclea divinorumHiern inOlPejetaConservancy,Kenya
Authors: Wahungu Geoffrey M. , Gichohi Nathan W. , Onyango Irene A. , Mureu Lucy K. , Kamaru Douglas , Mutisya Samuel , Mulama Martin , Makau Joseph K. , Kimuyu Duncan M.
Published: September 2012

Euclea divinorum, a fast establishing, unpalatable, and fire resistant bush is considered an invasive species in some parts of its range. In Ol Pejeta Conservancy (OPC), Kenya,E. divinorumbushes cover ˜27% of the total area (˜9470 ha.) and has been expanding in coverage and encroaching intoA. drepanolobiumwoodlands, a key woody habitat for the endangered black rhino. Between 2006 and 2010, we assessed the spatial distribution, annual rates of spread and recruitment ofE. divinorumin OPC. We used data from satellite imagery and belt transects laid at the transition betweenE. divinorumhabitat and other habitats. Density ofE. divinorumseedlings increased by 27% annually over five years, with more seedlings establishing in grassland habitat (56.6%) than inA. drepanolobiumwoodland (43.4%). Within the infection frontier, the number of seedlings was high at the ecotone and reduced predictably with an increase in distance into the infection zone. Increase in rainfall facilitated recruitment and survival ofE. divinorumseedlings and also reduced damage on trees and seedlings by mega‐herbivores, especially elephants. This study confirms the encroachment ofE. divinorumbushland into other habitats. This has been accelerated by burning and damage to A. drepanolobium habitat thus opening it up to encroachment byE. divinorum.
Patterns of liana community diversity and structure in a tropical rainforest reserve, Ghana: effects of human disturbance
Authors: Addo‐Fordjour Patrick , Rahmad Zakaria B. , Amui Joycelyn , Pinto Chareles , Dwomoh Mavis
Published: September 2012

Most studies have concluded that liana diversity and structure increase with disturbance. However, a contradictory pattern has emerged recently calling for more research in the area. Liana diversity and structure were investigated in three forest types that differ in disturbance intensity (nondisturbed, moderately disturbed and heavily disturbed forest: NDF, MDF and HDF, respectively) in the Atewa Range Forest Reserve, Ghana. In each forest type, 10 square plots of 0.25 ha were demarcated. Lianas with diameter ≥1 cm located on trees with diameter ≥10 cm were enumerated. A total of 429 individuals representing 40 species, 29 genera and seventeen families were identified in the study. Shannon diversity and species richness of lianas were significantly lower in the HDF (P < 0.05). Liana density and basal area differed significantly across all forest types (P < 0.0001). The importance value index (IVI) of most liana species varied greatly across the forest types. The current study has provided evidence to support the pattern of decreasing liana diversity and structure with disturbance in some tropical forests. Further studies are recommended to gain more understanding of the factors that are responsible for the divergent liana responses to disturbance in tropical forests.
A red baby should not be taken too lightly
Authors: Faletra Flavio , Bruno Irene , Berti Irene , Pastore Serena , Pirrone Angela , Tommasini Alberto
Published: September 2012

Aim: To identify clinical and laboratory features that can drive the differential diagnosis of a primary immunodeficiency diseases in patients with ectodermal defects.

Methods: Analysis of selected teaching cases.

Results: We identified four exemplary cases that allowed to point out specific clues.

Conclusions: A careful evaluation of immune and ectodermal signs is the key to the diagnosis. Therefore, a multidisciplinary approach can lead to diagnosis and to an appropriate treatment in most of the cases.
Craniofacial and dental development in cardio‐facio‐cutaneous syndrome: the importance of Ras signaling homeostasis
Authors: Goodwin AF , Oberoi S , Landan M , Charles C , Groth J , Martinez A , Fairley C , Weiss LA , Tidyman WE , Klein OD , Rauen KA
Published: September 2012

Cardio‐facio‐cutaneous syndrome (CFC) is a RASopathy that is characterized by craniofacial, dermatologic, gastrointestinal, ocular, cardiac, and neurologic anomalies. CFC is caused by activating mutations in the Ras/mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) signaling pathway that is downstream of receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) signaling. RTK signaling is known to play a central role in craniofacial and dental development, but to date, no studies have systematically examined individuals with CFC to define key craniofacial and dental features. To fill this critical gap in our knowledge, we evaluated the craniofacial and dental phenotype of a large cohort (n = 32) of CFC individuals who attended the 2009 and 2011 CFC International Family Conferences. We quantified common craniofacial features in CFC which include macrocephaly, bitemporal narrowing, convex facial profile, and hypoplastic supraorbital ridges. In addition, there is a characteristic dental phenotype in CFC syndrome that includes malocclusion with open bite, posterior crossbite, and a high‐arched palate. This thorough evaluation of the craniofacial and dental phenotype in CFC individuals provides a step forward in our understanding of the role of RTK/MAPK signaling in human craniofacial development and will aid clinicians who treat patients with CFC.
Is an occupation with vocal load a risk factor for laryngopharyngeal reflux: a prospective, multicentre, multivariate comparative study
Authors: Hočevar‐Boltežar I. , Šereg‐Bahar M. , Kravos A. , Mumović G. , Mitrović S.
Published: September 2012

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2012, 37, 362–368

Objectives:  To compare the prevalence of laryngopharyngeal reflux in choristers, teachers and control subjects without vocal load at work and to determine the risk factors for laryngopharyngeal reflux.

Design:  A prospective, multicentre, multivariate comparative study.

Participants:  One hundred and nineteen singers from four professional choirs, seventy teachers from four schools and 111 control subjects with an occupation without vocal load.

Main outcome measures:  All participants completed a questionnaire about their dietary habits, height and weight, presence of stress, smoking and allergies, including the nine‐item Reflux Symptom Index. The groups of choristers, teachers and the controls were compared with each other with regard to their sex, age, dietary habits, body‐mass index, Reflux Symptom Index score and other factors affecting voice quality. The subjects from all three groups with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux were compared with the subjects without it. The relationship between the Reflux Symptom Index score and the possible risk factors for reflux was estimated.

Results:  The results showed significantly higher Reflux Symptom Index scores in the choristers than in the teachers and the controls (mean scores, 7.86 versus 6.33, P = 0.044; 7.86 versus 4.80, P = 0.000, respectively), but the number of subjects with suspected laryngopharyngeal reflux (Reflux Symptom Index score >13) did not differ significantly between the groups. The choristers were significantly more often treated for laryngopharyngeal reflux than the teachers and the controls (41%, 17% and 28%, respectively). The occupation chorister and frequently experiencing stress were the only factors that influenced the total Reflux Symptom Index score.

Conclusions:  Laryngopharyngeal reflux affects the choristers more often than the teachers or the control subjects without vocal load at work. These results suggest that singing as the main professional activity can notably contribute to the development of the reflux. Vocal load without singing is probably not an important aetiological factor for laryngopharyngeal reflux. The extraoesophageal symptoms affecting voice require treatment for laryngopharyngeal reflux and proper dietary habits especially in the group with high voice quality demands.
Carotid stenosis after adjuvant cervical radiotherapy in patients with head and neck cancers: a prospective controlled study
Authors: Greco A. , Gallo A. , De Virgilio A. , Marinelli C. , Macri G.F. , Fusconi M. , Pagliuca G. , de Vincentiis M.
Published: September 2012

Clin. Otolaryngol. 2012, 37, 376–381

Objectives:  To determine the prevalence of radiation‐induced carotid stenosis, in patients who were treated for head and neck malignancies, using colour‐flow duplex scanning.

Design:  Prospective controlled study at a single medical centre.

Participants:  We enrolled two groups of patients. The first (radiotherapy group) consisted of patients who received surgical treatment and adjuvant radiotherapy of the neck. The control group consisted of patients with head and neck malignancies who received only surgical treatment.

Main outcome measures:  All patients were evaluated with carotid artery ecoDoppler imaging 1 week before and 36 months after the surgical procedure. Intima‐media thickness was measured bilaterally at the internal carotid artery and at the bifurcation. Carotid obstruction was classified as low (0–30%), moderate (31–49%) or severe (≥50%).

Results:  The preoperative stenosis grade did not differ between groups. In 15/25 patients (60%) in the radiotherapy group, mild stenosis evolved to moderate stenosis, while only 6/37 (16%) of the controls did (P = 0.004). Additionally, 9/39 (23%) patients in the radiotherapy group progressed to severe stenosis compared with only 3/54 (6%) controls (P = 0.029). The overall evolution showed that stenosis worsened in 24/32 (62%) patients in the radiotherapy group and 9/54 (17%) patients in the control groups (P < 0.0001).

Conclusions:  These results highlight the need to study the long‐term incidence of cerebrovascular events in these two different populations (radiation treated and surgically treated) to identify increased cerebrovascular morbidity.
Performance of homeostasis model assessment and serum high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein for prediction of isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia
Authors: Lai Y.‐C. , Li H.‐Y. , Hung C.‐S. , Lin M.‐S. , Shih S.‐R. , Ma W.‐Y. , Hua C.‐H. , Chuang L.‐M. , Sung F.‐C. , Wei J.‐N.
Published: September 2012

Diabet. Med. 30, 318–325 (2013)

Aims  To evaluate whether homeostasis model assessment and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein improve the prediction of isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia.

Methods  The subjects were 1458 adults without self‐reported diabetes recruited between 2006 and 2010. Isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia was defined as fasting plasma glucose < 7 mmol/l and 2‐h post‐load plasma glucose ≥ 11.1 mmol/l. Risk scores of isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia were constructed by multivariate logistic regression. An independent group (n = 154) was enrolled from 2010 to 2011 to validate the models’ performance.

Results  One hundred and twenty‐three subjects (8.28%) were newly diagnosed as having diabetes mellitus. Among those with undiagnosed diabetes, 64 subjects (52%) had isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia. Subjects with isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia were older, more centrally obese and had higher blood pressure, HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose, triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance and lower homeostasis model assessment of β‐cell function than those without diabetes. The risk scores included age, gender, BMI, homeostasis model assessment, high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein and HbA1c. The full model had high sensitivity (84%) and specificity (87%) and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (0.91), with a cut‐off point of 23.81; validation in an independent data set showed 88% sensitivity, 77% specificity and an area under curve of 0.89.

Conclusions  Over half of those with undiagnosed diabetes had isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia. Homeostasis model assessment and high‐sensitivity C‐reactive protein are useful to identify subjects with isolated post‐load hyperglycaemia, with improved performance over fasting plasma glucose or HbA1c alone.
Lessons From an Unusual Critter: What Can Unusual Animals Teach Us?
Authors: Klopfer Peter H.
Published: September 2012

The study of unusual or little‐known animals can pay enormous dividends by providing new insights into fundamental biological processes. One has to consider only the implications of the studies on Aplysia or Caenorhabditis as illustrations, to say nothing of the many examples from the work of Gunter Tembrock, in whose honor this lecture is offered. Recent studies of the hibernation of a small primate from Madagascar, the fat‐tailed dwarf lemur, which may remain in a condition of torpor for weeks at a time, promise a range of similar insights.
Common reeds (Phragmites australis) as sustainable energy source: experimental and modelling analysis of torrefaction and pyrolysis processes
Authors: Patuzzi Francesco , Mimmo Tanja , Cesco Stefano , Gasparella Andrea , Baratieri Marco
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study is to apply advanced analytical techniques and kinetic modelling to common reeds (Phragmites australis) to characterize its pyrolysis and torrefaction as possible environmental friendly and sustainable pathways of fuel upgrading. Simultaneous thermogravimetric and differential scanning calorimetry analysis have been carried out on common reeds. The evolved gases during the decomposition process have been analysed by a coupled infrared gas analyser and gas chromatograph/mass spectrometer. Different reed origins (China and Italy) and plant parts (stem and leaves) have been compared. The results have been used to calibrate a torrefaction kinetic model. The model has also been tested simulating a reed torrefaction run occurring in a bench‐scale apparatus, supplementing the chemical analysis with a thermal simulation of the reactor carried out through a finite elements approach. The results show that the proposed modelling approach allows the prediction of the reaction products with a satisfying degree of accuracy. Besides its phytodepuration potential, P. australis has proven to be an interesting natural biomass resource for thermochemical conversion processes and energy production both for its suitability and availability.
Creating an impersonal NHS? Personalization, choice and the erosion of intimacy
Authors: Owens John
Published: September 2012

Background

Personalization – most often understood in terms of granting patients greater opportunity to participate in, and make choices about, the services they receive – has become a key principle guiding reform of the English NHS.

Objective

This study sets out to explore the relationship between two senses of the term ‘personal’ within the context of personalization. Firstly, much of the policy literature equates a ‘personal’ service with one that is responsive to the choices of individual patients. Secondly, the term ‘personal’ can be thought to refer to the intimate relationships between patients and medical professionals that have typified traditional models of good practice.

Methodology and Discussion

I combine a review of the relevant academic and policy literature on personalization with a process of conceptual analysis to uncover three arguments, which suggest that personalization based on choice may adversely affect standards of care by eroding the qualities of intimacy at the heart of the care process. Thus, an unintended consequence of the drive for personalization may be the creation of an NHS that is, in an important sense, less personal than it once was.

Conclusion

Whilst personalization may deliver many potential benefits, the tension between promoting patient choice and retaining intimate professional‐patient relationships ought to be taken seriously. Thus, the task of promoting choice whilst retaining intimacy represents a key policy challenge for advocates of personalization.
Involvement of FgERG4 in ergosterol biosynthesis, vegetative differentiation and virulence in Fusarium graminearum
Authors: Liu Xin , Jiang Jinhua , Yin Yanni , Ma Zhonghua
Published: September 2012

The ergosterol biosynthesis pathway is well understood in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, but currently little is known about the pathway in plant‐pathogenic fungi. In this study, we characterized the Fusarium graminearum FgERG4 gene encoding sterol C‐24 reductase, which catalyses the conversion of ergosta‐5,7,22,24‐tetraenol to ergosterol in the final step of ergosterol biosynthesis. The FgERG4 deletion mutant ΔFgErg4‐2 failed to synthesize ergosterol. The mutant exhibited a significant decrease in mycelial growth and conidiation, and produced abnormal conidia. In addition, the mutant showed increased sensitivity to metal cations and to various cell stresses. Surprisingly, mycelia of ΔFgErg4‐2 revealed increased resistance to cell wall‐degrading enzymes. Fungicide sensitivity tests revealed that ΔFgErg4‐2 showed increased resistance to various sterol biosynthesis inhibitors (SBIs), which is consistent with the over‐expression of SBI target genes in the mutant. ΔFgErg4‐2 was impaired dramatically in virulence, although it was able to successfully colonize flowering wheat head and tomato, which is in agreement with the observation that the mutant produces a significantly lower level of trichothecene mycotoxins than does the wild‐type progenitor. All of these phenotypic defects of ΔFgErg4‐2 were complemented by the reintroduction of a full‐length FgERG4 gene. In addition, FgERG4 partially rescued the defect of ergosterol biosynthesis in the Saccharomyces cerevisiae ERG4 deletion mutant. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that FgERG4 plays a crucial role in ergosterol biosynthesis, vegetative differentiation and virulence in the filamentous fungus F. graminearum.
Inferring animal population distributions from individual tracking data: theoretical insights and potential pitfalls
Authors: Holdo Ricardo M. , Roach R. Ryan
Published: September 2012

Animal population‐level phenomena are often inferred from large tracking data sets obtained from only a few individuals. Two key challenges are to understand how these two scales are related, and to identify the factors that influence the extent to which small samples consisting of a few individuals can predict spatial patterns at the population scale.

We used a simple spatially explicit theoretical model to explore some of the factors that affect inferences made at the population level from individual tracking data. We adopted a ‘mixtures of correlated random walks’ approach to simulate two discrete movement modes with different step lengths and turning angles in a hypothetical ungulate population with contrasting population sizes and sampling intensities. Movement state was assumed to be influenced by habitat type (patch or matrix) and social cues. We explored the predictive power of a tracked population subsample by regressing the space‐use map generated by a few randomly chosen individuals against the map generated by the entire population (the ‘true’ map) for different scenarios (e.g. random and clumped habitat distributions) and parameter values.

We show that the predictive power of the tracking sample varies nonlinearly and often counter‐intuitively with factors such as habitat preference, the spatial context of the landscape and the importance of social interactions.

We suggest that movement models coupled with individual tracking data can be used with Monte Carlo simulations to improve tracking studies by better understanding the links between detailed individual movement data and population distributions.
Using the NHS sustainability framework to understand the activities and resource implications of Canadian nursing guideline early adopters
Authors: Higuchi Kathryn Smith , Downey Angela , Davies Barbara , Bajnok Irmajean , Waggott Melissa
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  To examine the activities and resource implications for the initial cohort of healthcare organisations involved in the introduction of multiple nursing guidelines.

Background.  The Best Practice Spotlight Organization initiative was launched in 2003 as part of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario’s Best Practice Guidelines programme. While previous research has evaluated improvements in patient care and outcomes, there has been limited research from an organisational perspective on the activities conducted to introduce nursing guidelines.

Design.  Secondary analysis of retrospective narrative data.

Methods.  We conducted a content analysis of the 2004–2006 annual reports from the seven participating sites. We used both deductive and inductive approaches to categorise the guideline implementation activities and their resource implications.

Results.  All sites reported implementing multiple guidelines (four to nine guidelines per site) and used a wide range of implementation activities that clearly addressed nine of the 10 NHS Sustainability dimensions. The dimension not reported was benefits beyond helping patients. All sites established steering committees that involved staff and senior leaders, reviewed selected guidelines and recommendations, reviewed existing policies and procedures and developed new policies and procedures, recruited champions or peer mentors, applied for additional external funding to support activities, developed relationships with external clinical partners, included guideline implementation in orientation, developed intra‐agency web‐based and print communications for the project, and evaluated practice changes. For each of these activities, the sites reported expenditures and resource usage.

Conclusions.  The organisational processes used for the introduction of new nursing guidelines in Canada are remarkably consistent with factors identified by leaders and change agents in the UK who developed the NHS Sustainability Model.

Relevance to clinical practice.  A multidimensional framework for sustainability is useful for planning successful guideline implementation across an organisation. Examples of specific activities and resource implications for organisational change are provided.
Evaluation of an educational programme for family members of patients living with heart failure: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Löfvenmark Caroline , Saboonchi Fredrik , Edner Magnus , Billing Ewa , Mattiasson Anne‐Cathrine
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  To evaluate the effect of a group‐based multi‐professional educational programme for family members of patients with chronic heart failure with regard to quality of life, depression and anxiety. The secondary aim was to investigate the impact of social support and sense of coherence on changes in quality of life, anxiety and depression during the period of the study.

Background.  When a person is diagnosed with heart failure, the daily life of the family members is also affected.

Design.  Randomised controlled trial.

Methods.  A total of 128 family members were randomly assigned to participate in a multi‐professional educational programme or a control group. Analysis of variance and regression analysis were used.

Results.  There were no significant differences in anxiety, depression or quality of life between the intervention group and control group. Adequacy of social network was the only independent variable that explained levels of anxiety and depression after 12 months beyond baseline levels of anxiety (p < 0·001, R2 = 0·35) and depression (p = 0·021, R2 = 0·37). Younger family members were found to have a higher quality of life (p < 0·01).

Conclusion.  Improved disease‐related knowledge may need to be combined with other target variables to induce desired effects on depression, anxiety and quality of life of family members. Antecedents of depression and anxiety, such as sense of control, may need to be specifically targeted. Our results also suggest that intervention aimed at enhancing social support may be beneficial for family members.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Anxiety and depression did not decrease nor did quality of life improve after the intervention. An educational programme for family members with a component specifically targeting anxiety, depression and quality of life warrants testing. Furthermore, it is important that health care providers understand the influence of social support on anxiety, depression and quality of life when interacting with family members.
Using mode and maximum values from the Numeric Rating Scale when evaluating postoperative pain management and recovery
Authors: Eriksson Kerstin , Wikström Lotta , Lindblad‐Fridh Marianne , Broström Anders
Published: September 2012

Aims and objectives.  To (1) examine the clinical applicability of compiled mode and maximum values from the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS) by comparing the correspondence between patient perceptions of pain and pain values from monitoring records, as well as (2) to study the relationship between mode and maximum values and self‐assessed ability for early postoperative recovery.

Background.  Documentation of pain remains a problem despite recommendations of quality improvements. To examine the correlation between patient perceptions and documented pain therefore becomes important. Few have studied how pain affects recovery.

Design.  A quantitative cross‐sectional design was used in which 157 postoperative patients answered a questionnaire on pain intensity and recovery. A parallel examination of pain in monitoring records was conducted.

Results.  A total of 57% had a mode value calculated from records between 0 and 3 on postoperative day 1 and 69% on day 2. A maximum value between 4 and 10 was found in monitoring records for 73% on day 1 and for 67% on day 2. The correspondence between mode value from monitoring records and the patients’ retrospective perceptions was 88% for NRS 0–3 and 92% between maximum value and NRS 4–10. The correlation between documented pain and retrospectively identified pain for mode value of the NRS in all (0–10) was rather weak (r = 0·37), while maximum value had a stronger correlation (r = 0·53).

Conclusion.  Mode and maximum values could be used as outcome measures when evaluating postoperative pain. Pain affects recovery negatively, but more research is needed to strengthen the evidence for the use and clarify the link between pain and recovery.

Relevance to clinical practice.  International organisations emphasise the importance of improving pain assessment. Mode and maximum values are easy to compile for nurses and can, together with assessments of how experienced pain levels affect postoperative recovery, improve treatment of postoperative pain.
South Asian dietary patterns and their association with risk factors for the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Garduño‐Diaz S. D. , Khokhar S.
Published: September 2012

Background

Certain dietary patterns have been associated with higher risk of noncommunicable diseases, with South Asians identified as a high‐risk group. The present study aimed to identify the association between dietary patterns and the metabolic syndrome (MS) in South Asians living in the UK.

Methods

Dietary patterns were derived by principal component analysis from 15 different food groups using an ethnic‐specific food frequency questionnaire. MS risk factors, including obesity and hypertension, were measured, whereas existing conditions of dyslipidaemia and hyperglycaemia were self‐reported. Participants (n = 100) were divided into quartiles based on dietary factor scores and the link between dietary patterns and risk factors was investigated.

Results

Three different patterns were derived, which together explained 46% of the total diet variation; eastern pattern, mixed pattern and western pattern. An inverse correlation was found between the eastern pattern and education P = 0.05). A direct correlation was found between the western pattern and physical activity (P = 0.05) and the overall risk of MS (P = 0.05). Body composition was altered as residence time in the UK increased, with a reduction in muscle mass (29–26%) and an increase in body fat (31–37%). Diagnosis criteria for MS were found in 20% of the participants.

Conclusions

Dietary acculturation, including a reduction in vegetarianism, an increased intake of caffeinated drinks and altered meal patterns, may be associated with the higher prevalence of MS in migrant South Asians in the UK.
Quality of life in a cohort of patients diagnosed with renal failure in childhood and who received renal transplant
Authors: Tozzi Alberto E. , Mazzotti Eva , Di Ciommo Vincenzo Maria , Dello Strologo Luca , Cuttini Marina
Published: September 2012

Tozzi AE, Mazzotti E, Di Ciommo VM, Dello Strologo L, Cuttini M. Quality of life in a cohort of patients diagnosed with renal failure in childhood and who received renal transplant.

Abstract:  Studies on HRQOL on kidney‐transplanted young adults who had a diagnosis of chronic renal failure (CRF) in the pediatric age are uncommon. We studied HRQOL and its predictors in a sample of young adults with CRF in childhood who underwent a renal transplant. We recruited patients ≥18 yr old with renal transplant. We measured HRQOL by a standardized questionnaire on lifestyle, Short Form‐36 (SF‐36; including a PCS and a MCS; scale: 0–100), the GHQ (for short‐term changes in mental health; scale: 0–36), and the MSPSS (with scales for family, friends, and significant others; scale: 0–100). We assessed the association of potential predictors of HRQOL through multiple linear regression models. We studied 66 patients aged 18–34 yr. The average PCS score was 76.4, and the average MCS score was 73.9. The mean GHQ total score was 14.8, and the total scale MSPSS mean score was 70. Severe comorbidities significantly affected the PCS score. Individuals with severe comorbidities had lower PCS scores.
Meso‐Rex bypass as an alternative technique for portal vein reconstruction at or after liver transplantation in children: Review and perspectives
Authors: de Ville de Goyet Jean , Lo Zupone Cristina , Grimaldi Chiara , D’Ambrosio Giuseppe , Candusso Manila , Torre Giuliano , Monti Lidia
Published: September 2012

de Ville de Goyet J, Lo Zupone C, Grimaldi C, D’Ambrosio G, Candusso M, Torre G, Monti L. Meso‐Rex bypass as an alternative technique for portal vein reconstruction at or after liver transplantation in children: Review and perspectives.

Abstract:  Direct portal revascularization can be achieved by interposing a vascular graft between the SMV and the Rex recessus (left portal vein system): the MRB. To review indications and results of the procedure in the setting of pediatric liver transplantation, reports were selected from the English literature. Previously reported series were updated to analyze long‐term outcome. A new series was added and analyzed as a complementary set of cases. A total of 51 cases were analyzed. With a 96% overall patient survival rate and a 100% long‐term patency rate when the IJV is used for the bypass, MRB achieves a very successful physiologic cure of chronic portal hypertension and restores the portal flow into and through the liver graft. It also has been used successfully for primary revascularization of liver grafts, as well as for managing early acute portal vein thrombosis episodes. The use of this procedure in conjunction with other strategies and techniques might be of interest for transplant surgeons, particularly those caring for children.
Cognitive function in patients with chronic pain treated with opioids: characteristics and associated factors
Authors: KURITA G. P. , DE MATTOS PIMENTA C. A. , BRAGA P. E. , FRICH L. , JØRGENSEN M. M. , NIELSEN P. R. , HØJSTED J. , SJØGREN P.
Published: September 2012

Background

The paucity of studies regarding cognitive function in patients with chronic pain, and growing evidence regarding the cognitive effects of pain and opioids on cognitive function prompted us to assess cognition via neuropsychological measurement in patients with chronic non‐cancer pain treated with opioids.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 49 patients were assessed by Continuous Reaction Time, Finger Tapping, Digit Span, Trail Making Test‐B and Mini‐mental State Examination tests. Linear regressions were applied.

Results

Patients scored poorly in the Trail Making Test‐B (mean = 107.6 s, SD = 61.0, cut‐off = 91 s); and adequately on all other tests. Several associations among independent variables and cognitive tests were observed. In the multiple regression analyses, the variables associated with statistically significant poor cognitive performance were female sex, higher age, lower annual income, lower schooling, anxiety, depression, tiredness, lower opioid dose, and more than 5 h of sleep the night before assessment (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Patients with chronic pain may have cognitive dysfunction related to some reversible factors, which can be optimized by therapeutic interventions.