bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MYB46 directly regulates the gene expression of secondary wall‐associated cellulose synthases in Arabidopsis
Authors: Kim Won‐Chan , Ko Jae‐Heung , Kim Joo‐Yeol , Kim Jungmook , Bae Hyeun‐Jong , Han Kyung‐Hwan
Published: August 2012

Cellulose is the most abundant biopolymer on Earth. Three cellulose synthases (CESA4, CESA7 and CESA8) are necessary for cellulose production in the secondary cell walls of Arabidopsis. Little is known about how expression of these CESA genes is regulated. We recently identified a cis‐regulatory element (M46RE) that is recognized by MYB46, which is a master switch for secondary wall formation in Arabidopsis. A genome‐wide survey of promoter sequences for the presence of M46REs led to the hypothesis that MYB46 may function as a direct regulator of all three secondary wall‐associated cellulose synthase genes: CESA4, CESA7 and CESA8. We tested this hypothesis using several lines of experimental evidence. All three CESA genes are highly up‐regulated by both constitutive and inducible over‐expression of MYB46 in planta. Using a steroid receptor‐based inducible activation system, we show that MYB46 directly activates transcription of the three CESA genes. We then used an electrophoretic mobility shift assay and chromatin immunoprecipitation analysis to confirm that MYB46 protein directly binds to the promoters of the three CESA genes both in vitro and in vivo. Furthermore, ectopic up‐regulation of MYB46 resulted in a significant increase of crystalline cellulose content in Arabidopsis. Taken together, we have identified MYB46 as a transcription factor that directly regulates all three secondary wall‐associated CESA genes. Yeast one‐hybrid screening identified additional transcription factors that regulate the CESA genes. However, none of the putative regulators appears to be regulated by MYB46, suggesting the multi‐faceted nature of transcriptional regulation of secondary wall cellulose biosynthesis.
Post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis in visceral leishmaniasis‐endemic communities in Bihar, India
Authors: Singh Rudra Pratap , Picado Albert , Alam Shahnawaz , Hasker Epco , Singh Shri Prakash , Ostyn Bart , Chappuis François , Sundar Shyam , Boelaert Marleen
Published: August 2012

We assessed the prevalence of post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis (PKDL), a late cutaneous manifestation of visceral leishmaniasis (VL), in 16 VL‐endemic communities in Bihar, India. The prevalence of confirmed PKDL cases was 4.4 per 10 000 individuals and 7.8 if probable cases were also considered. The clinical history and treatment of the post‐kala‐azar dermal leishmaniasis cases are discussed.
Physiological and morphological changes during early and later stages of fruit growth in Capsicum annuum
Authors: Tiwari Aparna , Vivian‐Smith Adam , Ljung Karin , Offringa Remko , Heuvelink Ep
Published: August 2012

Fruit‐set involves a series of physiological and morphological changes that are well described for tomato and Arabidopsis, but largely unknown for sweet pepper (Capsicum annuum). The aim of this paper is to investigate whether mechanisms of fruit‐set observed in Arabidopsis and tomato are also applicable to C. annuum. To do this, we accurately timed the physiological and morphological changes in a post‐pollinated and un‐pollinated ovary. A vascular connection between ovule and replum was observed in fertilized ovaries that undergo fruit development, and this connection was absent in unfertilized ovaries that abort. This indicates that vascular connection between ovule and replum is an early indicator for successful fruit development after pollination and fertilization. Evaluation of histological changes in the carpel of a fertilized and unfertilized ovary indicated that increase in cell number and cell diameter both contribute to early fruit growth. Cell division contributes more during early fruit growth while cell expansion contributes more at later stages of fruit growth in C. annuum. The simultaneous occurrence of a peak in auxin concentration and a strong increase in cell diameter in the carpel of seeded fruits suggest that indole‐3‐acetic acid stimulates a major increase in cell diameter at later stages of fruit growth. The series of physiological and morphological events observed during fruit‐set in C. annuum are similar to what has been reported for tomato and Arabidopsis. This indicates that tomato and Arabidopsis are suitable model plants to understand details of fruit‐set mechanisms in C. annuum.
Antibody response to the non‐adjuvanted and adjuvanted influenza A H1N1/09 monovalent vaccines in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Salles M.J.C. , Sens Y.A.S. , Malafronte P. , Souza J.F. , Vilas Boas L.S. , Machado C.M.
Published: August 2012

Background

The 2009 pandemic influenza A (H1N1) virus spread rapidly throughout Brazil. Non‐adjuvanted and the adjuvanted influenza A H1N1/09 monovalent vaccine were recommended as a single dose to persons at risk including renal transplant recipients (RTR). We analyzed the safety and the immune response of 2 influenza A H1N1/09 monovalent vaccines in RTR, and identified factors influencing the immune response.

Methods

A total of 78 RTR received a single dose of either influenza A H1N1 2009 monovalent AS03‐adjuvanted vaccine or a non‐adjuvanted vaccine, and 58 healthy controls received a single dose of non‐adjuvanted vaccine. Antibody responses to influenza A H1N1 were measured by hemagglutination inhibition assay and were compared between groups on the day of vaccination and 21–30 days thereafter, using geometric mean titer (GMT), and seroprotection (SP) and seroconversion (SC) rates.

Results

Among RTR, after adjuvanted and non‐adjuvanted H1N1 vaccination, the SP rate increased from 16.7% to 61.7% (P < 0.001) and to 50% (P < 0.001), and SC rates were 61.7% and 50%, respectively. For healthy controls, SP rate increased from 25.8% to 89.7% (P < 0.001), and SC rate was 87.9% after vaccination. Pre‐vaccination GMT for the adjuvanted and non‐adjuvanted RTR vaccine groups and healthy controls was 9.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 7.3–13.1), 8.9 (95% CI 5.4–14.7), and 12.5 (95% CI8.7–18.2), and significantly increased to 49.8 (95% CI 31.3–79.4, P < 0.001), 43.2 (95% CI 16.3–114.4, P < 0.001), and 323.8 (95% CI 213.9–490.2, P < 0.001), respectively. Deceased‐donor type transplant significantly reduced SP (odds ratio [OR] = 4.62, 95% CI 1.36–15.69, P = 0.014) and SC (OR = 6.29, 95% CI 1.89–20.98, P = 0.003) rates, and younger age positively affected SP (OR = 0.11; 95% CI 0.03–0.04, P = 0.001). Adverse events were mild, and renal function showed no change post vaccination.

Conclusion

RTR vaccinated with either an adjuvanted or non‐adjuvanted monovalent influenza vaccine presented poor response compared with healthy controls. Post‐vaccination adverse events were mild, and no rejection episode or renal dysfunction was observed.
Clonidine abolishes the adverse effects on apoptosis and behaviour after neonatal ketamine exposure in mice
Authors: PONTÉN E. , VIBERG H. , GORDH T. , ERIKSSON P. , FREDRIKSSON A.
Published: August 2012

Background

An increasing amount of both experimental and epidemiological data indicates that neonatal anaesthesia causes disruption of normal brain development in rodents and primates, as manifested by acute increased apoptosis and long‐lasting altered behaviour and learning. It is necessary to seek strategies that avoid the possible adverse effects after anaesthesia. Our purpose is to show that increased apoptosis and behavioural alterations after ketamine exposure during this period may be prevented by clonidine, a compound already used by paediatric anaesthetists for sedation.

Methods

To investigate the protective properties of clonidine pre‐treatment, five groups of 10‐day‐old mice were injected with either ketamine 50 mg/kg, clonidine 40 μg/kg, ketamine 50 mg/kg 30 min after 10 μg/kg clonidine, ketamine 50 mg/kg 30 min after 40 μg/kg clonidine or saline (control). Apoptosis was measured 24 h after treatment usingFlouro‐Jade staining. Spontaneous activity in a novel environment was tested at an age of 55 days.

Results

Pre‐treatment with 40 μg/kg clonidine, but not 10 μg/kg clonidine, 30 min before ketamine exposure abolished ketamine‐induced apoptosis and the behavioural changes observed in the young adult mice. The mice exposed to clonidine alone showed no differences from the saline‐treated (control) mice.

Conclusion

The administration of clonidine eliminated the adverse effects of ketamine in this mouse model, suggesting a possible strategy for protection. Alone, clonidine did not cause any adverse effects in these tests.
New graduate occupational therapists feelings of preparedness for practice in Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand
Authors: Gray Marion , Clark Michele , Penman Merrolee , Smith Julie , Bell Joanna , Thomas Yvonne , Trevan‐Hawke Judith
Published: August 2012

Aim

The development of competent future allied health professionals through academic programmes, professional support and practical education is continually evolving. The aim of this study was to explore the feelings of newly graduated occupational therapists in Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand regarding their education and work preparedness.

Methods

Newly graduated occupational therapists from Australia (n = 178) and Aotearoa/New Zealand (n = 53) who had completed their occupational therapy studies in 2007 were recruited. Participants completed an online survey which explored their preparedness for work; based on professional competencies.

Results

Most newly graduated occupational therapists felt somewhat prepared for practice. However, only 17.1% of Australian new graduates, and even fewer (8.5%) of Aotearoa/New Zealand new graduates felt very well prepared. Participants felt more prepared for the competencies required for ‘managing inwards’ (including interpersonal skills) and less prepared for those required for ‘managing outwards’ (including evidence‐based practice).

Conclusions

This study provides the first international comparison into the feelings of competence and preparedness for practice of new graduates of occupational therapy from Australia and Aotearoa/New Zealand. Given the importance of competencies, such as evidence‐based practice to the progress of the profession, there is a need to further explore methods to increase feelings of preparedness in these areas.
Cd2+ affects the growth, hierarchical structure and peptide composition of the biosilica of the freshwater diatom Nitzschia palea (Kützing) W. Smith
Authors: Heredia Alejandro , Figueira Etelvina , Rodrigues Carina T. , Rodríguez‐Galván Andrés , Basiuk Vladimir A. , Vrieling Engel G. , Almeida Salomé F. P.
Published: August 2012

Biosilica from diatoms is formed at ambient conditions under the control of biological and physicochemical processes. The changes in growth and biosilica formation through uptake of different concentrations of Cd2+ by the diatom Nitzschia palea (Kützing) W. Smith was investigated, correlating Cd2+ effects to changes in the biosilica nanostructure and the relative content of the encapsulated biomolecules. Diatom growth rates at different Cd2+ concentrations (as 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 × 10−1 mg L−1 CdCl2) were studied in order to determine the concentrations at which sublethal effects were visible, allowing the harvest of sufficient diatom cells for further experiments. We found a clear correlation between the Cd2+ concentrations and both the nanostructure of the biosilica and content of encapsulated peptides. Cd2+ induced biosilica deformation was assessed by scanning electron microscopy and attenuated total reflectance‐Fourier Transformed Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing that micromorphological changes in frustule features (striae, costae, pores) and nanostructural modifications (structure of the silica and conformation of the encapsulated peptides) occurred at applied Cd2+ concentrations of 2 and 3 × 10−1 mg L−1. In particular the FTIR contribution of peptides decreased at elevated Cd2+ concentrations, whereas shifts in wave number of several relevant organic bonds as C = O stretching (1765 cm−1) and possibly hydrated sulfate (1160, 1110 and 980 cm−1) were assigned. Additional analysis of the amide I band showed a relative increase in β‐sheet structure (1680–1620 cm−1) when Cd2+ concentration increased. Cadmium uptake clearly affected the molecular ordering of the biosilica in Nitzschia palea, most probably by interfering in biological or physicochemical processes involved in diatom biosilicification.
Growth and uptake kinetics of phosphate by benthic microalga Nitzschia sp. isolated from Hiroshima Bay, Japan
Authors: Yamamoto Tamiji , Suzuki Masami , Kim Kyunghoi , Asaoka Satoshi
Published: August 2012

In the present study, we experimentally investigated the phosphate uptake kinetics of benthic microalga Nitzschia sp. isolated from Hiroshima Bay, Japan. The maximum uptake rate (ρmax) obtained by short‐term experiments was 6.84 pmol cell−1 h−1 for phosphate. The half‐saturation constant for uptake (KS) was 61.2 µmol cell−1 h−1. Both the ρmax and Ks of this species were extremely high, suggesting that Nitzschia sp. is adapted to benthic environments, where nutrient concentrations are much higher than in the water column. The specific maximum growth rate (µ'max) and minimum cell quota (Q0) for the P‐limited condition, obtained by a semi‐continuous growth experiment, were 0.48 day−1 and 0.045 pmol cell−1, respectively. It is concluded that Nitzschia sp. could be a ‘storage strategist’ species, meaning it adapts so as to minimize the influence of fluctuations in phosphate conditions resulting from the change in redox conditions of sediment due to bioturbation.
GNB3 C825T polymorphism is associated with postural tachycardia syndrome in children
Authors: Nakao Ryota , Tanaka Hidetaka , Takitani Kimitaka , Kajiura Mitsugu , Okamoto Naoyuki , Kanbara Yukiko , Tamai Hiroshi
Published: August 2012

Aim

Postural tachycardia syndrome (POTS) is one of the most frequent forms of chronic orthostatic intolerance in children and adolescents. The aim of the present study was to examine the influence of a genetic background on POTS.

Methods

A total of 96 children and adolescents with orthostatic dysregulation were studied. The polymorphism of the G protein β3 subunit (GNB3) C825T and G protein α subunit (GNAS1) T131C of genes encoding components of the autonomic nervous system were determined and compared with circulatory responses to active standing.

Results

In the GNB3 gene C825T polymorphism, the CT and TT genotype had a significant lower supine heart rate and a larger increase of heart rate by standing than the CC, associated with evaluated power of the high‐frequency component of heart rate variability. According to the criteria of the Japanese clinical guidelines, 48 children were diagnosed as POTS and 30 were as normal responder with somatoform disorder (SD). In GNB3 C825T polymorphism, the TT genotype was more frequently found in the POTS group (45.8%) than in the SD group (25.0%; P = 0.036). In the GNAS1 T393C, the genotype frequencies for the T393C polymorphisms of GNA1 did not differ significantly between the groups.

Conclusion

The gene polymorphisms GNB3 C825T might be a risk factor for POTS through the enhanced vagal withdrawal of the heart in children and adolescents.
Treatment of preterm infants with West syndrome: Differences due to etiology
Authors: Mure Takeo , Nakagawa Taku , Okizuka Yo , Takami Yuichi , Oyazato Yoshinobu , Nagase Hiroaki , Maruyama Azusa , Adachi Masao , Takada Satoshi , Matsuo Masafumi
Published: August 2012

Background

This study was conducted with a particular focus on preterm infants with West syndrome (WS) to evaluate differences in the first responses to oral medication based on etiology.

Methods

Medical records of 53 patients with WS, treated at five institutions between 2005 and 2009, were reviewed retrospectively. Patients were divided into six groups based on the time of brain insult, and evaluated for short‐term outcomes using oral anti‐epileptic agents and synthetic adrenocorticotropic hormone.

Results

The sample consisted of 15, six, 14, two, four, and 12 patients classified, on the basis of apparent time of acquisition of etiology, into the prenatal, term, preterm, postnatal, other, and no identified etiology groups, respectively. Average age of onset in the term group was 3.3 ± 1.0 months, significantly earlier than in the prenatal, preterm, postnatal and no identified etiology groups (P < 0.05). All patients in the term group had experienced seizures before the onset of WS. Only patients in the preterm group had only experienced neonatal seizures, and responded better to treatment. Patients in the preterm group had better responses to treatment, especially oral medication, compared with those in the prenatal and term groups. The prevalence of relapse of seizures in the preterm group (14%) was significantly lower than that in the prenatal group.

Conclusions

Preterm WS patients responded well to treatment. Distinguishing WS patients on the basis of different etiologies is important for evaluating the effectiveness of treatment.
Risk factors for community‐acquired urinary tract infection caused by ESBL‐producing bacteria in children
Authors: Kizilca Ozgur , Siraneci Rengin , Yilmaz Alev , Hatipoglu Nevin , Ozturk Erkut , Kiyak Aysel , Ozkok Dilek
Published: August 2012

Background

The aim of the present study was to investigate the risk factors of antimicrobial resistance in children with urinary tract infection caused by extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing bacteria.

Methods

A total of 344 patients diagnosed with urinary tract infection (UTI) between January 2008 and December 2009 were enrolled in this retrospective study. Causative microorganisms were ESBL‐producing bacteria in 148 patients and non‐ESBL‐producing bacteria in 196 patients. There was no difference between the two groups regarding distribution of age, sex and length of follow up.

Results

The most frequent causative agent was Escherichia coli, of which 41.4% were ESBL producing. Among Klebsiella species, 53.2% were ESBL producing. The proportion of ESBL‐producing bacteria that were resistant to antibiotics was 83.1% for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, 18.2% for nitrofurantoin, 47.3% for quinolones, and 39.9% for aminoglycosides. For non‐ESBL‐producing bacteria, the resistance rate was 62.2% for trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, 4.6% for nitrofurantoin, 9.7% for quinolones, and 9.7% for aminoglycosides. Age <1 year, high UTI recurrence rate, long duration of prophylaxis, use of cephalosporins for prophylaxis, hospitalization within the previous 3 months and clean intermittent catheterization were found to be significant risk factors for ESBL‐producing bacteria (P < 0.05). Logistic regression analysis identified age <1 year and high recurrence UTI rate to be independent risk factors, increasing the risk 1.74‐fold and 2.25‐fold, respectively.

Conclusions

Recognition of the risk factors for ESBL‐producing bacteria may be helpful to determine new policies in the management of UTI. Recurrence of UTI should be prevented especially in the first year of life, and prophylactic cephalosporins should be avoided.
Effects of aggressive parenteral nutrition on growth and clinical outcome in preterm infants
Authors: Can Emrah , Bülbül Ali , Uslu Sinan , Cömert Serdar , Bolat Fatih , Nuhoğlu Asiye
Published: August 2012

Background

The goal of nutrition in the preterm infant is to achieve postnatal growth approximating normal fetal growth. During the early postnatal period, protein intake must be sufficient to achieve normal postnatal growth in extremely low‐birthweight infants. The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that giving higher amounts of amino acids and lipids to infants born at <34 gestational weeks (GW) may improve growth at the 40th week of gestation and have a positive preventive effect on development of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP).

Methods

Fifty‐three neonates born at <34 GW and hospitalized in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were included in this prospective study. They were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1 received aggressive parenteral nutrition (PN) (amino acids 3 g/kg per day and lipids 2 g/kg per day on first day of life). Group 2 received conventional PN (amino acids 1.5 g/kg per day and lipids 1 g/kg per day on first day of life). The anthropometric measurements, clinical outcomes and serum levels of insulin‐like growth factor‐I (IGF‐I), IGF binding protein (IGFBP) and thyroid hormones were compared between groups.

Results

At 40 weeks of gestation, height, head circumference and serum IGF‐I and IGFBP3 were statistically higher in the group receiving aggressive PN. Thyroid hormones were not affected by aggressive PN. The lower levels of IGF‐I and IGFBP3 in the group receiving conventional PN were negatively correlated with development of ROP.

Conclusion

Aggressive PN seems to positively affect neonates' anthropometric measurements at the 40th gestational week and the development of ROP. These effects may be related to high levels of IGF‐I and IGFBP3.
Association between bronchopulmonary dysplasia and MBL2 and IL1‐RN polymorphisms
Authors: Cakmak Bilin Cetinkaya , Calkavur Sebnem , Ozkinay Ferda , Koroglu Ozge Altun , Onay Huseyin , Itirli Gulcin , Karaca Emin , Yalaz Mehmet , Akisu Mete , Kultursay Nilgün
Published: August 2012

Background

The imbalance between pro‐inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines may play a role in the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants. Mannose binding lectin (MBL) codon 54 and interleukin 1 receptor antagonist gene (IL1‐RN) polymorphisms cause genetic predisposition to increased risk of infection and inflammation, therefore may increase the risk of BPD. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between MBL, IL1‐RN gene polymorphisms and BPD development in preterm infants.

Methods

MBL codon 54 and IL1‐RN polymorphisms were studied in 71 infants who were born at <32 weeks of gestation, with the diagnosis of BPD (group 1) and in a control group of preterm infants without BPD (group 2).

Results

IL1‐RN and MBL2 variant genes were closely associated with increased risk of BPD (both P < 0.001) together with significantly lower birthweight (P < 0.001 and P = 0.001, respectively), lower 5 min Apgar scores (P = 0.009 for both genes) and increased neonatal infection rate (P < 0.001 and P < 0.009, respectively). The IL1 RN 1/1 genotype was protective (odds ratio [OR], 0.075; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.019–0.76) while the IL1‐RN 2/2 genotype increased the risk for BPD (OR, 11.7; 95%CI: 1.3–103.6). The MBL‐AA genotype was protective against BPD (OR, 0.066; 95%CI: 0.02–0.2) whereas the MBL‐BB genotype increased the susceptibility for the development of BPD (OR, 23.8; 95%CI: 2.8–200.6).

Conclusion

MBL and IL 1 RN polymorphisms are closely related to low birthweight and increase the risk of neonatal sepsis and BPD development in preterm infants.
Comparison of two inside‐out transobturator suburethral sling techniques for stress incontinence: Early postoperative thigh pain and 3‐year outcomes
Authors: Neuman Menahem , Sosnovski Vladimir , Goralnik Svetlana , Diker Benjamin , Bornstein Jacob
Published: August 2012

Objectives:  Inside‐out tension‐free vaginal tape obturators for the cure of female stress incontinence can cause postoperative thigh pain. The aim of the present study was to analyze and compare the mid‐term outcomes of two tension‐free vaginal tape obturator procedures.

Methods:  Patients diagnosed with urinary stress incontinence were enrolled to undergo a tension‐free vaginal tape obturator sub‐mid urethral tape operation either by de‐Leval's method or by Flam's modification. Peri‐ and postoperative data were collected by uninvolved researchers and analyzed. Follow up was 36 months.

Results:  Overall, 161 patients were included in the study. Cure and complication rates were similar between the two treatment groups. Postoperative thigh pain was significantly more frequent and lasted longer in the de‐Leval group compared with the Flam group (31.9% vs 10.0%, respectively). Urinary urgency was more frequent in the de‐Leval patients (20.3% vs 2.8%).

Conclusion:  Our findings suggest that both tension‐free vaginal tape obturator procedures are effective with few adverse effects. The Flam method provides shorter and decreased levels of postoperative thigh pain, as well as reduced long‐term postoperative urinary urgency.
Talking about sex as part of our role: Making and sustaining practice change
Authors: Quinn Chris , Happell Brenda , Welch Anthony
Published: August 2012

Sexual issues are common for consumers of mental health services and have many adverse consequences for quality of life as well as impacting negatively on the mental illness itself. Nurses in mental health settings are well placed to assess for the presence of and provide interventions for sexual concerns. To date, little research has been undertaken to explore nurses' attitudes and whether sexual issues would be accepted as part of their care. This paper presents findings from the third stage of a qualitative, exploratory research study with mental health nurses working in an Australian mental health service. The findings from the first two stages suggested that the participants had tended to avoid discussion of sexual issues, but a brief education intervention had produced a greater willingness to address sexual issues as part of care. The aim of the third stage was to determine the degree to which changes in practice had continued over time. Two main themes that emerged from this data were: (i) holism, from rhetoric to reality; and (ii) part of what I do. Addressing sexual issues became part of practice, a change sustained 2 years following the intervention, because participants recognized its importance for holistic nursing care.
Dispersal and edge behaviour of bark beetles and predators inhabiting red pine plantations
Authors: Costa Arnaud , A Min , Boone Celia K. , Kendrick Alexander P. , Murphy Robert J. , Sharpee William C. , Raffa Kenneth F. , Reeve John D.
Published: August 2012

Quantifying dispersal in predator–prey systems can improve our understanding of how these species interact in space and time, as well as their relative distributions across complex landscapes.

We measured the dispersal abilities of three forest insects associated with red pine decline: the eastern five spined pine engraverIps grandicollis(Coleoptera: Curculionidae), its main predatorThanasimus dubius(Coleoptera: Cleridae) and the basal stem and root colonizerDendroctonus valens(Coleoptera: Curculionidae). We also examined the edge behaviours of these species and the predatorPlatysomaspp (Coleoptera: Histeridae) between red pine stands (habitat) and clearings (nonhabitat).

Thanasimus dubiusdispersed 12 times farther than its preyI. grandicollis, with 50% of predators dispersing farther than 1.54 km. This profound difference in dispersal behaviour between prey and predator may contribute to the clumped distribution ofI. grandicollis.

MostT. dubiusandD. valenswere confined in the pine forest, thus showing strong edge behaviour. This differed fromI. grandicollis and Platysomaspp., which were commonly found in open areas adjacent to red pine plantations.

The bark beetleI. grandicollisand one of its main predators,T. dubius, exhibited different patterns of movement within a fragmented landscape. Despite a greater dispersal ability ofT. dubiuswithin forests, the spatial distribution of this predator may be restricted by fragmentation of its habitat, and provide an opportunity for partial escape of its prey.

The present study contributes to our knowledge of top‐down forces within red pine stands undergoing decline. Differences of dispersal patterns and edge behaviour could contribute to the initiation of new pockets of decline, as well as the connectedness among existing ones.
Secondary cancers after intensity‐modulated radiotherapy, brachytherapy and radical prostatectomy for the treatment of prostate cancer: incidence and cause‐specific survival outcomes according to the initial treatment intervention
Authors: Zelefsky Michael J. , Pei Xin , Teslova Tatiana , Kuk Deborah , Magsanoc Juan Martin , Kollmeier Marisa , Cox Brett , Zhang Zhigang
Published: August 2012

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

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

Radiation Therapy for prostate cancer can increase the risk for the development of second cancers after treatment. This study highlights the fact that such second cancers within the pelvis do occur but are not as common as previously reported. In this report we also note that even among patients who develop second cancers, if detected earlier, the majority are alive 5 years after the diagnosis.

OBJECTIVE

To report on the incidence of secondary malignancy (SM) development after external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) and brachytherapy (BT) for prostate cancer and to compare this with a cohort contemporaneously treated with radical prostatectomy (RP).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Between 1998 and 2001, 2658 patients with localized prostate cancer were treated with RP (n= 1348), EBRT (n= 897) or BT (n= 413).

Using the RP cohort as a control we compared the incidence of SMs, such as rectal or bladder cancers noted within the pelvis, and the incidence of extrapelvic SMs.

RESULTS

The 10‐year SM‐free survival for the RP, BT and EBRT cohorts were 89%, 87%, and 83%, respectively (RP vs EBRT, P= 0.002; RP vs BT, P= 0.37).

The 10‐year likelihoods for bladder or colorectal cancer SM development in the RP, BT and EBRT groups were 3%, 2% and 4%, respectively (P= 0.29).

Multivariate analysis of predictors for development of all SMs showed that older age (P= 0.01) and history of smoking (P < 0.001) were significant predictors for the development of a SM, while treatment intervention was not found to be a significant variable.

Among 243 patients who developed a SM, the 5‐year likelihood of SM‐related mortality among patients with SMs in the EBRT and BT groups was 43.7% and 15.6%, respectively, compared with 26.3% in the RP cohort; P= 0.052).

CONCLUSIONS

The incidence of SM after radiotherapy was not significantly different from that after RP when adjusted for patient age and smoking history.

The incidence of bladder and rectal cancers was low for both EBRT‐ and BT‐treated patients.

Among patients who developed a SM, the likelihood of mortality related to the SM was not significantly different among the treatment cohorts.
PERCEPTIONS OF TOP MANAGEMENT COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION AND R&D‐MARKETING RELATIONSHIP EFFECTIVENESS: DO THEY AFFECT CSR?
Authors: SANZO María José , ÁLVAREZ Luis Ignacio , REY Marta , GARCÍA Nuria
Published: August 2012

ABSTRACT:  This research analyzes whether (1) top management commitment to innovation and/or (2) satisfaction and conflict between marketing and R&D during new product development process, affect the existence of those CSR activities more intensely connected to R&D. An empirical study was carried out combining three information sources: a structured survey of 178 Spanish innovative firms, a detailed analysis of their corporate web sites, and the SABI data base. Results derived from a final sample of 106 firms show that both top management commitment and inter‐functional climate foster various CSR dimensions, although different ones in each case.
Indonesian leadership styles: A mixed‐methods approach
Authors: Suryani Angela O. , Van de Vijver Fons J. R. , Poortinga Ype H. , Setiadi Bernadette N.
Published: August 2012

Indonesian leadership characteristics were examined in three studies, using mixed methods. In the first, qualitative study 127 indigenous characteristics of Indonesian leadership were identified from interviews and focus group discussions with Indonesian managers and staff. In the second study, a questionnaire based on the characteristics found in the first study was administered to Indonesian managers to identify Indonesian leadership styles. Using factor analysis, two highly correlated dimensions were extracted, labelled benevolent paternalism and transformational leadership. In the third study, a questionnaire consisting of leadership characteristics from the GLOBE study, supplemented with a selection of 49 items from the Indonesian questionnaire, was administered to another sample of Indonesian managers. We found that Indonesian leadership has two components; the first involves a more local modernization dimension that ranges from (traditional) benevolent paternalism to (modern) transformational leadership, the second is a more universal person‐ versus team‐oriented leadership dimension. We conclude that Indonesian leadership has both emic and etic aspects.
The influence of lay theories of Feng Shui on consumers' peace of mind: The role of regulatory fit
Authors: Ho Shu‐Hsun , Chuang Shu‐Ting
Published: August 2012

With its history dating back five millennia, the art of creating harmonious surroundings – commonly referred to as Feng Shui – has become deeply rooted in Chinese culture. Yet despite its significant effect on people's daily lives, a dearth of research is available on how Feng Shui influences consumers' decisions. This study investigates the influence of Feng Shui on customers' attitude based on their regulatory focus, providing suggestions for business opportunities. Three studies examine whether Feng Shui's goals influence participants' decisions and feelings of appropriateness. Study 1 demonstrated that the fit between Feng Shui's suggestions and consumers' regulatory focus impacted decision making. Participants were more likely to adopt the Feng Shui practitioner's suggestions of a goal compatible with the consumers' regulatory focus. Study 2 provided evidence that a regulatory focus also impacts participants' peace of mind. Study 3 tested whether the value experienced from regulatory fit is reflected in the price. Specifically, promotion‐oriented individuals feel more accepting of promotion‐focused Feng Shui that is consistent with an approach goal while prevention‐oriented individuals are more persuaded by prevention‐focused Feng Shui that is consistent with an avoidance goal. When the Feng Shui appeal is compatible with the self‐regulatory focus, individuals demonstrate a greater feeling of appropriateness and produce a higher level of peace of mind.
Making Sense of Spin
Authors: Manson Neil C.
Published: August 2012

abstract

‘Spin’ is a pejorative term for a ubiquitous form of communication. Spin is viewed by many as deceptive, and by others as bending or twisting the truth. But spin need not be deceptive and the metaphors are less than clear. The aim here is to clarify what spin is: spin is identified as a form of selective claim‐making, where the process of selection is governed by an intention to bring about promotional perlocutionary effects. The process of selection may pertain to aspects of some situation or phenomenon; or to the lexis used in making the claims. Not all selective promotional communication is spin. Spin involves a distinctive kind of dissociation between the speaker's first‐order interpretation and the constructed interpretation or claim offered to others. With these clarifications in place the discussion turns to the complex connections between spin, truthfulness and deception. Aspect‐selective spin can be truthful, and it need not be deceptive in its intentions or effects, but may risk deceiving audiences. Lexical spin is less readily truthful, and both forms of spin prudentially require a distinctive kind of concealment of the speaker's intentions. The account developed here does not address normative questions about whether, or how, spin might be wrong, but aims to provide a clear and adequate account of spin as a basis for addressing normative questions about spin.
Quantifying changes in sun bear distribution and their forest habitat in Sumatra
Authors: Wong W‐M. , Leader‐Williams N. , Linkie M.
Published: August 2012

High rates of deforestation are presumed to adversely affect large‐bodied mammal populations across South‐east Asia. Understanding how these species respond to deforestation is therefore important for their conservation, particularly for more cryptic species that have proved a challenge to enumerate. Here, we use an occupancy approach based on detection/non‐detection data collected over two survey periods to conduct the first assessment of spatio‐temporal changes in sun bear distribution. We measured sun bear population trends through repeat camera‐trap surveys and assessed their response to varying levels of deforestation in four study areas located in and around the 13 300 km2 Kerinci Seblat National Park (KSNP), Sumatra, from 2004/06 to 2009/11. The crude results suggested a decline in sun bear distribution, from 0.683 [0.519–0.810; 95% confidence intervals (CIs)] to 0.444 (0.253–0.584), but there were considerable overlaps in temporal CIs. This overall change in occupancy was partially driven by the significant decline (9.4%year−1) in one subpopulation living in the study area that underwent the highest rate of deforestation (0.96%year−1). Meanwhile, sun bear subpopulations living in areas experiencing lower deforestation rates (i.e. < 0.60%year−1) appear to be less affected by forest clearance. Our study demonstrates that occupancy modelling is a useful and replicable tool for monitoring sun bear populations in KSNP and elsewhere. Our results confirm that KSNP is a stronghold for sun bears, while also forewarning of the detrimental effects of ongoing illegal deforestation on sun bear distributions.
Striated muscle fiber apoptosis after experimental tendon lesion in a rat model
Authors: Palumbo Carla , Rovesta Claudio , Ferretti Marzia
Published: August 2012

Tendon lesions induce muscular atrophy, the nature of which has not yet been clearly related to lesion etiology and entity. In the present study, tendon and muscle alterations were assessed after experimental tendon lesion of the Infraspinatus muscle in young rats. The consequences of lesions differed on the basis of both extension and injured tissue vascularization, that is apoptosis and/or degeneration, differing mainly by energy demands: apoptosis requires high energy levels (proportional to vascular supply), but degeneration does not. It is well known that tendons are poorly supplied with blood compared with muscular masses, which are abundantly vascularized. Five weeks after tendon surgical section, tendon/muscle samples were taken for TUNEL and transmission electron microscopy. The structural results reported here identified different tendon/muscle alterations: degeneration of tendon without signs of apoptosis, and atrophy of muscle fibers due only to apoptosis. This led to the formulation of the following hypothetical sequence of events: a tendon lesion, not recovering quickly due to the poor tendon blood supply, results in degeneration of the injured tendon, which, in turn, induces a partial disuse of the muscle mass, which consequently atrophies (proportionally to the severity of tendon lesion) by striated muscular fiber apoptosis. The authors suggest that the different behavior of the two tissues depends on the marked difference in their vascularization.
The effect of a Beare‐Stevenson syndrome Fgfr2 Y394C mutation on early craniofacial bone volume and relative bone mineral density in mice
Authors: Percival Christopher J. , Wang Yingli , Zhou Xueyan , Jabs Ethylin W. , Richtsmeier Joan T.
Published: August 2012

Quantifying the craniofacial skeletal phenotype during development highlights potential effects of known mutations on bone maturation and is an informative first step for the analysis of animal models. We introduce a novel technique to easily and efficiently quantify individual cranial bone volume and relative bone mineral density across the murine skull from high resolution computed tomography images. The approach can be combined with existing quantitative morphometric methods to provide details of bone growth and bone quality, which can be used to make inferences about regulatory effects local to individual bones and identify locations and developmental times for which additional analyses are warranted. Analysis of the Fgfr2+/Y394C mouse model of Beare‐Stevenson cutis gyrata syndrome, an FGFR‐related craniosynostosis syndrome, is used to demonstrate the method. Mutants and unaffected littermates display similar bone volume and relative bone density at birth, followed by significant differences at postnatal day eight. The change in rates of bone volume growth occurs similarly for all bones of the skull, regardless of origin, location or association with craniosynostosis. These results suggest an association between low bone density, low bone volume, and Fgfr craniosynostosis mutations. Our novel technique provides an initial quantitative evaluation of local shifts in bone maturation across the skull of animal models.
Parents’ knowledge, behaviour and concerns of food chemical hazards: Korean mothers sending their preschool‐aged children to child care centres
Authors: Shim Soon‐Mi , Lee Kiwon
Published: August 2012

Although incidences of foodborne illness caused by chemical hazards are increasing, the studies on public awareness of food chemical hazards are limited. This study was conducted to assess mothers’ knowledge, behaviour and concerns on diverse food chemical hazards. A total of 960 mothers sending their preschool‐aged children to child care centres in Gwanak‐Gu, Seoul, Korea were surveyed, and 633 (65.9%) returned the questionnaires. After excluding inappropriate questionnaires, 364 (37.9%) were analysed. The majority of the mothers were able to identify food categories containing acrylamide (83.2%) and trans fat (80.2%), while slightly over half of the mothers named food categories containing allergen (56.3%) or pesticide residues (57.1%). Less than two thirds of mothers were knowledgeable of human exposure pathway to environmental contaminants (59.3%), acrylamide (55.2%) or heavy metals (65.9%). A significant number of mothers showed familiarity on health risk from dietary exposure to environmental contaminants (82.4%), trans fat (91.5%) or heavy metals (96.7%) (P < 0.05). The data on safe food behaviour towards environmental contaminants (81.8%), acrylamide (98.0%), heavy metals (96.7%) and trans fat (90.6%) showed high levels of right behaviours. About 47.2% and 22.8% of mothers read label of food additives and ingredient statement on allergen when purchasing processed foods, respectively. Mothers seemed to be concerned about food chemical hazards. Among the sociodemographic characteristics, only age significantly differentiated mothers’ concerns on chemical hazards in foods (P < 0.05). This study suggests that mothers needed to be educated on food chemical hazards regardless of their education levels, occupation status or the number of child.
Accuracy of colposcopy‐directed punch biopsies: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Underwood M , Arbyn M , Parry‐Smith W , De Bellis‐Ayres S , Todd R , Redman CWE , Moss EL
Published: August 2012

Please cite this paper as: Underwood M, Arbyn M, Parry‐Smith W, De Bellis‐Ayres S, Todd R, Redman CWE, Moss EL. Accuracy of colposcopy‐directed punch biopsies: a systematic review and meta‐analysis. BJOG 2012;119:1293–1301.

Background  The colposcopy‐directed punch biopsy is widely used in the management of women with abnormal cervical cytology; however, its accuracy compared with definitive histology from an excision biopsy is not well established.

Objectives  To assess the accuracy of the colposcopy‐directed punch biopsy to diagnose high‐grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) by performing a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Search strategy  A systematic search of MEDLINE, EMBASE and the Cochrane Library was performed.

Selection criteria  Articles that compared the colposcopically directed cervical punch biopsy with definitive histology from an excisional cervical biopsy or hysterectomy.

Data collection and analysis  Random effects and hierarchical summary receiver operating characteristic regression models were used to compute the pooled sensitivity and specificity applying different test cut‐offs for outcomes of high‐grade CIN.

Main results  Thirty‐two papers comprising 7873 paired punch/definitive histology results were identified. The pooled sensitivity for a punch biopsy defined as test cut‐off CIN1+ to diagnose CIN2+ disease was 91.3% (95% CI 85.3–94.9%) and the specificity was 24.6% (95% CI 16.0–35.9%). In most of the studies, the majority of enrolled women had positive punch biopsies. Pooling of the four studies where the excision biopsy was performed immediately after the punch biopsy, and where the rate of positive punch biopsies was considerably lower, yielded a sensitivity of 81.4% and specificity of 63.3%.

Author’s conclusion  The observed high sensitivity of the punch biopsy derived from all studies is probably the result of verification bias.
Increased doses of vaginal progesterone for the prevention of preterm birth in twin pregnancies: a randomised controlled double‐blind multicentre trial
Authors: Serra V , Perales A , Meseguer J , Parrilla JJ , Lara C , Bellver J , Grifol R , Alcover I , Sala M , Martínez‐Escoriza JC , Pellicer A
Published: August 2012

Objective  Previous trials have shown little benefit for preventing preterm birth in twin pregnancies using 90–200 mg of daily vaginal natural progesterone. Higher doses have not been tested. Our aim was to determine the efficacy and safety of two different daily doses of vaginal natural progesterone (200 and 400 mg), compared with placebo, for preventing preterm birth in unselected twin pregnancies.

Design  Randomised controlled double‐blind multicentre trial (1:1:1).

Setting  The study was carried out in five university centres from Valencia, Murcia and Alicante (Spain).

Population  Women with dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies.

Methods  The women self‐inserted two vaginal pessaries daily, containing placebo (n = 96), 200 mg of natural progesterone (n = 97) or 400 mg of natural progesterone (n = 97), from 20 to 34 weeks of gestation or delivery. Randomisation was performed by an external centre. Data were analysed on an intention‐to‐treat basis.

Main outcome measure  Preterm birth rate.

Results  The baseline characteristics for placebo and progesterone groups were similar. Comparison of the three groups and analysis of progesterone‐treated versus untreated women showed similar pregnancy and neonatal outcomes. The proportion of preterm and very preterm births, low birthweight, perinatal mortality and neonatal morbidity showed no differences between the three groups. Similar results were also obtained when comparing the 200‐ versus 400‐mg progesterone groups. No serious adverse effects were encountered.

Conclusions  Vaginal progesterone therapy was generally well tolerated, but failed to prevent preterm births in unselected dichorionic diamniotic twin pregnancies. The 400‐mg progesterone dose offered no advantages over the 200‐mg regimen.