bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
NKG2D‐mediated immunity underlying paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria and related bone marrow failure syndromes
Authors: Hanaoka Nobuyoshi , Nakakuma Hideki , Horikawa Kentaro , Nagakura Shoichi , Tsuzuki Yasuchika , Shimanuki Masaya , Kojima Kensuke , Yonemura Yuji , Kawaguchi Tatsuya
Published: July 2009

It is considered that a similar immune mechanism acts in the pathogenesis of bone marrow (BM) failure in paroxysmal nocturnal haemoglobinuria (PNH) and its related disorders, such as aplastic anaemia (AA) and myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). However, the molecular events in immune‐mediated marrow injury have not been elucidated. We recently reported an abnormal expression of stress‐inducible NKG2D (natural‐killer group 2, member D) ligands, such as ULBP (UL16‐binding protein) and MICA/B (major histocompatibility complex class I chain‐related molecules A/B), on granulocytes in some PNH patients and the granulocyte killing by autologous lymphocytes in vitro. The present study found that the expression of NKG2D ligands was common to both granulocytes and BM cells of patients with PNH, AA, and MDS, indicating their exposure to some incitement to induce the ligands. The haematopoietic colony formation in vitro by the patients’ marrow cells significantly improved when their BM cells were pretreated with antibodies against NKG2D receptor, suggesting that the antibodies rescued haematopoietic cells expressing NKG2D ligands from damage by autologous lymphocytes with NKG2D. Clinical courses of patients with PNH and AA showed a close association of the expression of NKG2D ligands with BM failure and a favourable response to immunosuppressive therapy. We therefore propose that NKG2D‐mediated immunity may underlie the BM failure in PNH and its‐related marrow diseases.
Vascular density in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia correlates to biological factors and outcome
Authors: Norén‐Nyström Ulrika , Heyman Mats , Frisk Per , Golovleva Irina , Sundström Christer , Porwit Anna , Roos Göran , Bergh Anders , Forestier Erik
Published: July 2009

The issue of angiogenesis and its clinical relevance in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) is controversial. In the present study, microvessel density (MVD), analysed in 185 diagnostic bone marrow biopsies, was higher in T‐cell ALL compared to B‐cell precursor (BCP)‐ALL (P = 0·013). In the BCP group, cases with t(12;21) were characterized by a low MVD while patients with high‐hyperdiploid leukaemia (HeH, 51–61 chromosomes) showed a high MVD compared to other BCP patients (P = 0·001 and 0·002 respectively). There was a correlation between MVD and white blood cell (WBC) count in high‐risk BCP patients (P = 0·021). In addition, BCP patients with a high marrow reticulin fibre density and high MVD had an unfavourable outcome compared to the other BCP patients (P = 0·002). The fraction of vessels in which lumina were filled with blasts (blast congested vessel fraction) correlated strongly with WBC count (P < 0·001). These findings indicate that the angiogenic process interacts with other stroma‐factors, such as reticulin fibre density, in its effect on outcome, and is coupled to both the ALL genotype and phenotype. One possible implication is that different subtypes of childhood ALL may respond differently to anti‐angiogenic drugs as a supplement in first‐line treatment.
The Ascent to Competence conceptual framework: an outcome of a study of belongingness
Authors: Levett‐Jones Tracy , Lathlean Judith
Published: July 2009

Aim.  This paper presents qualitative findings from a study that explored nursing students’ experience of belongingness when undertaking clinical placements. The aim is to locate the professional and practical implications of the research within an Ascent to Competence conceptual framework.

Background.  The need to belong exerts a powerful influence on cognitive processes, emotional patterns, behavioural responses, health and well‐being and failure to satisfy this need can have devastating consequences. The literature suggests that diminished belongingness may impede students’ motivation for learning and influence the degree to which they are willing to conform rather than adopt a questioning approach to clinical practice.

Design.  A mixed methods, cross national, multi‐site case study approach was adopted with third‐year preregistration nursing students from three universities (two in Australia and one in England) participating; 362 in the quantitative phase and 18 in the qualitative phase.

Findings.  Qualitative findings demonstrated that, although the primary purpose of clinical education is to facilitate students’ progress towards the attainment of competence, the realisation of this goal is impacted by a wide range of individual, interpersonal, contextual and organisational factors which can be conceptualised hierarchically. By this structuring it is possible to see how belongingness is a crucial precursor to students’ learning and success.

Conclusion.  The framework demonstrates that students progress to a stage where attainment of competence is possible only after their previous needs for safety and security, belongingness, healthy self‐concept and learning have been met.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The future of the nursing profession depends upon the development of confident, competent professionals with a healthy self‐concept and a commitment to patient‐centred care and self‐directed learning. This paper demonstrates that the realisation of this goal is strongly influenced by the extent to which students’ clinical placement experiences promote and enhance their sense of belonging.
The structure of contraceptive education and instruction within nurse led family planning clinics: a grounded theory study
Authors: Hayter Mark
Published: July 2009

Aims.  This study aimed to explore and analyse how nurses instruct women in contraceptive use during consultations in family planning clinics to produce a grounded theory of contraceptive education.

Background.  Nurses play a key role in instructing women how to use contraception in family planning clinic consultations. These one‐to‐one situations are encounters where women are taught how to use contraceptive methods effectively. However, very little is known about the nature of these consultations.

Design.  A qualitative study using a grounded theory approach was used.

Results.  Three linked ‘core categories’ emerged from the data analysis. Firstly, women are educated about their body and how it responds to contraception: ‘reproductive education’. This core category is closely linked to ‘surveillance’ where women are taught to monitor their reproductive health and to ‘contraceptive regimen’ where women are instructed in techniques to successfully use a contraceptive method. Together these three core categories present a grounded theory of ‘contraceptive education’.

Conclusions.  Nursing practice in this important area of women’s health care is complex and requires skilled practitioners. This study presents unique empirical data into how nurses conduct one‐to‐one consultations with women – providing a novel insight into how contraception is explained in clinical situations. Key issues for practice from the data were the lack of a balance when discussing side effects, the rigidity of some instructions and the lack of recognition of risk from sexually transmitted infection.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses working in sexual health need to ensure that women understand the often complex instructions they provide and that rigid instruction be occasionally amended to enable some flexibility. The manner in which side‐effects are discussed should also be balanced. Nurses need to address the risk of sexually transmitted infections more substantially in contraceptive discussions.
Impact of Platelets and Fresh Frozen Plasma in Contrast to Red Cell Concentrate on Unstimulated and Stimulated Cytokine Release in an In Vitro Model of Transfusion
Authors: Schneider S. O. , Rensing H. , Gräber S. , Kreuer S. , Kleinschmidt S. , Kreimeier S. , Müller P. , Mathes A. M. , Biedler A. E.
Published: July 2009

Transfusion of blood may contribute to immunomodulation. Leuco‐depleted standard blood products are supposed to result in less immunomodulation compared with whole blood. To determine the influence of leuco‐depleted blood products on the cytokine response, red blood cell concentrates (RBC), fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and platelet concentrates (PC) were investigated in an in vitro model of blood transfusion. Leuco‐depleted standard blood bank RBC, FFP and PC were mixed in vitro with AB0 compatible venous blood from healthy volunteers in ratios of 3:1, 1:1 and 1:3. Specimens were incubated in presence or absence of lipopolysaccharide, 1 μg/ml. After 24 h of incubation cytokine release of tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α and interleukin‐10 (IL‐10) was measured in cell culture supernatants by means of enzyme‐linked immunsorbent assay. Addition of RBC, FFP and PC to venous blood from healthy volunteers led to a significant and dose‐dependent increase in spontaneous TNF‐α and IL‐10 release. After endotoxin stimulation, RBC, FFP and PC significantly suppressed the TNF‐α response, while the stimulated release of IL‐10 tended to increase, reaching significance only after high doses of FFP. Addition of leuco‐depleted blood products changed the spontaneous and stimulated cytokine response in an in vitro model of transfusion. These data may suggest a possible contribution of transfused FFP and PC to immunomodulation after transfusion similar to RBC.
Phytoene synthase activity controls the biosynthesis of carotenoids and the supply of their metabolic precursors in dark‐grown Arabidopsis seedlings
Authors: Rodríguez‐Villalón Antía , Gas Elisabet , Rodríguez‐Concepción Manuel
Published: July 2009

Carotenoids are plastidial isoprenoids essential for plant life. In Arabidopsis thaliana carotenoid biosynthesis is strongly upregulated when seedlings that germinate in the dark (etiolated) emerge from the soil and light derepresses photomorphogenesis, causing etioplasts to become chloroplasts. We found that carotenoid biosynthesis is also induced when deetiolation is derepressed in the absence of actual light, eventually resulting in improved greening (chlorophyll accumulation) upon illumination. The increased production of carotenoids in the dark correlates with an upregulated activity of phytoene synthase (PSY; the first committed enzyme of carotenogenesis) and the induction of PSY gene expression in cotyledons (where carotenoids accumulate in dark‐grown seedlings). The metabolic precursors for carotenoid synthesis under these conditions are mostly supplied by the plastidial methylerythritol 4‐phosphate (MEP) pathway. Accumulation of flux‐controlling MEP pathway enzymes, such as deoxyxylulose 5‐phosphate synthase (DXS), is post‐transcriptionally increased when deetiolation is derepressed in the dark. Unlike the situation observed in light‐grown plants, however, the sole overexpression of DXS in dark‐grown seedlings does not increase carotenoid accumulation. By contrast, induced expression of a PSY‐encoding transgene results in increased carotenoid levels and a concomitant post‐transcriptional accumulation of DXS. These data provide evidence for a feedback mechanism by which PSY controls metabolic flux to the carotenoid pathway in plants.
An AP2‐type transcription factor, WRINKLED1, of Arabidopsis thaliana binds to the AW‐box sequence conserved among proximal upstream regions of genes involved in fatty acid synthesis
Authors: Maeo Kenichiro , Tokuda Tsuyoshi , Ayame Atsuko , Mitsui Naoko , Kawai Tsutae , Tsukagoshi Hironaka , Ishiguro Sumie , Nakamura Kenzo
Published: July 2009

Although an APETALA2 (AP2)‐type transcription factor, WRINKLED1 (WRI1), has been shown to be required for accumulation of triacylglycerols (TAGs) in Arabidopsis seeds, its direct target genes have not been established. Overexpression of WRI1 up‐regulated a set of genes involved in fatty acid (FA) synthesis in plastids, including genes for a subunit of pyruvate kinase (Pl‐PKβ1), acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (BCCP2), acyl carrier protein (ACP1), and ketoacyl‐acyl carrier protein synthase (KAS1), while expression of these genes is reduced in mutants with reduced WRI1 expression. Transient expression of LUC reporter genes with the proximal sequences upstream from the ATG codon of Pl‐PKβ1, BCCP2, and KAS1 in protoplasts was activated by co‐expression of WRI1, and recombinant WRI1 bound to these upstream sequences in vitro. The seven WRI1 binding sites shared a sequence [CnTnG](n)7[CG], where n is any nucleotide designated as the AW‐box, and mutations in AW‐boxes near the transcription start site and in the 5′‐untranslated region of Pl‐PKβ1 abolished activation by WRI1 in protoplasts and expression during seed maturation. Although expression of genes for the synthesis of TAGs and packaging into oil bodies in the endoplasmic reticulum in developing seeds required WRI1, their expression was not up‐regulated by WRI1 overexpression. Thus, WRI1 promotes the flow of carbon to oil during seed maturation by directly activating genes involved in FA synthesis and controlling genes for assembly and storage of TAG.
Molecular components required for the targeting of PEX7 to peroxisomes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Singh Tanuja , Hayashi Makoto , Mano Shoji , Arai Yuko , Goto Shino , Nishimura Mikio
Published: July 2009

PEX7 is a soluble import receptor that recognizes peroxisomal targeting signal type 2 (PTS2)‐containing proteins. In the present study, using a green fluorescent protein (GFP) fusion protein of PEX7 (GFP‐PEX7), we analyzed the molecular function and subcellular localization of PEX7 in Arabidopsis thaliana. The overexpression of GFP‐PEX7 resulted in defective glyoxysomal fatty acid β‐oxidation, but had no significant effect on leaf peroxisomal function. Analysis of the subcellular localization of GFP‐PEX7 in transgenic Arabidopsis showed that GFP‐PEX7 localizes primarily to the peroxisome. Transient expression of a C‐ or N‐terminal fusion protein of PEX7 and yellow fluorescent protein (YFP) (PEX7‐YFP and YFP‐PEX7, respectively) in leek epidermal cells, using the particle bombardment technique, confirmed that fluorescent protein‐tagged PEX7 localizes to peroxisomes in Arabidopsis. Immunoblot analysis revealed that GFP‐PEX7 accumulates primarily in peroxisomal membrane fractions, whereas endogenous PEX7 was distributed evenly in cytosolic and peroxisomal membrane fractions, which indicated that both endogenous PEX7 and GFP‐PEX7 are properly targeted to peroxisomal membranes. The results of bimolecular fluorescence complementation (BiFC) and yeast two‐hybrid analyses showed that PEX7 binds directly to PTS2‐containing proteins and PEX12 in the peroxisomal membrane. We used red fluorescent protein (tdTomato) fusion protein of PEX7 (tdTomato‐PEX7) in several Arabidopsis pex mutants to identify proteins required for the targeting of PEX7 to peroxisomes in planta. The results demonstrated that pex14, pex13 and pex12 mutations disrupt the proper targeting of PEX7 to peroxisomes. Overall, our results suggest that the targeting of PEX7 to peroxisomes requires four proteins: a PTS2‐containing protein, PEX14, PEX13 and PEX12.
Over‐winter predation of Abutilon theophrasti and Setaria faberi seeds in arable land
Authors: WILLIAMS C L , LIEBMAN M , WESTERMAN P R , BORZA J , SUNDBERG D , DANIELSON B
Published: July 2009

To improve understanding of over‐winter weed seed predation in arable fields, we used data from winter exclosure trials to determine the amount of predation and the influence of crop habitats on predation of Abutilon theophrasti and Setaria faberi seed in 2‐year (maize/soyabean) and 4‐year (maize/soyabean/small grain+lucerne/lucerne) crop rotation systems between 2005 and 2008. Crop habitat influenced seed predation, and had similar impacts on the two weed species. Mean A. theophrasti predation ranged from 31% in the 2‐year soyabean habitat to 99% in the 4‐year lucerne habitat. Mean S. faberi predation ranged from 31% in the 2‐year soyabean habitat to 97% in the 4‐year lucerne habitat. Results suggest that a combination or interaction of cover and substrate may have affected crop habitat preference by seed predators. Future research should further examine the influence of physical habitat on seed predation to determine characteristics of cropping systems that encourage predation, particularly during over‐winter periods, so as to routinely incorporate seed predators into long‐term weed management strategies.
Effects of pre‐ and post‐emergence weed harrowing on annual weeds in peas and spring cereals
Authors: LUNDKVIST A
Published: July 2009

To assess the effects of timing and frequency of weed harrowing on weed abundance and crop yield, different pre‐ and post‐emergence weed harrowing sequences were applied to spring cereals and peas in field experiments performed during 2003 and 2004 in Sweden. Post‐emergence harrowing was performed at crop growth stages 2–3 and 5–6 true leaves respectively. The best weed control was obtained by a combination of pre‐ and post‐emergence harrowing, but these treatments also caused yield losses of 12–14% in spring cereals, while no yield losses were observed in peas. Pre‐emergence weed harrowing treatments alone or combined with weed harrowing shortly after crop emergence proved to be most effective against the early emerging annual weed species Sinapis arvensis and Galeopsis spp. Post‐emergence harrowing alone in peas had no effect on S. arvensis. The late emerging annual weed species Chenopodium album and Polygonum lapathifolium were most effectively controlled when pre‐emergence weed harrowing was combined with one or two weed harrowing treatments after crop emergence.
Metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk in renal transplant recipients: effects of statin treatment
Authors: Soveri Inga , Abedini Sadollah , Holdaas Hallvard , Jardine Alan , Eriksson Niclas , Fellström Bengt
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Background:  Renal transplant recipients (RTR) have high risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). They also have high prevalence of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome (MS). Statin treatment reduces CVD risk in RTR. The aim was to study MS as CVD risk factor in RTR, and to investigate the effect of statin treatment in RTR with MS.

Methods:  In total, 1706 non‐diabetic RTR from the Assessment of Lescol in Renal Transplantation trial were followed for 7–8 yr. The captured endpoints included major adverse cardiac events [MACE, defined as cardiac death (CD), non‐fatal myocardial infarction or coronary revascularization procedure], and CD. MS was defined at baseline according to Adult Treatment Panel III definition with waist girth replaced by body mass index ≥30 kg/m2.

Results:  MS was diagnosed in 32% of the patients. During the follow‐up, MACE incidence was 16% in those with MS and 11% in those without MS (p < 0.001). Statin treatment reduced MACE risk by 53% in the group with MS. CD risk was 74% higher in RTR with MS (p = 0.012), and statin treatment reduced CD risk in those with MS (p = 0.03).

Conclusions:  RTR with MS have increased risk for CVD. RTR with MS are an easily identifiable group of patients who benefit from statin treatment.
The impact of reduced immunosuppression on graft outcomes in elderly renal transplant recipients
Authors: Badowski Melissa , Gurk‐Turner Cheryle , Cangro Charles , Weir Matthew , Philosophe Benjamin , Klassen David , Haririan Abdolreza
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Optimal immunosuppression (IS) for elderly kidney transplant recipients is unknown. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of recipients aged 60 yr or older to examine the impact of reduced IS on graft outcomes. Group 1 patients (n = 101) were initiated on mycophenolate mofetil 2 g/d and tacrolimus, target level 10–12 ng/mL; Group 2 patients (n = 88) with 1 g/d and 8–10 ng/mL, respectively. Dose adjustments were made as required. The groups were comparable except for diabetes, end‐stage renal disease duration, and induction. Mycophenolate mofetil dose was reduced in 62% and 38% of the patients, respectively (p < 0.01). Patients were followed for 23.8 ± 14.2 and 21.3 ± 11.8 months post‐transplant (p = 0.2). Twenty‐seven cases in Group 1 (26.7%) and eight in Group 2 (9.1%) lost their grafts (p = 0.01); 19 (18.8%) and 7 (8.0%) cases in each group because of death, respectively (p = 0.09). Sixteen patients in Group 1 (15.8%) and 18 in Group 2 (20.5%) experienced acute rejection (p = 0.36). Patients in Group 2 had a lower risk of graft loss compared with those in Group 1 [adjusted hazard ratio (HR): 0.27, p = 0.006, 95% CI: 0.11–0.69]. There were no significant differences between the groups regarding graft function, BK virus nephropathy, and CMV infection. Our results suggest that reduction in overall IS in this group was associated with improved graft and patient survival.
The potential role of C‐reactive protein in distinguishing cytomegalovirus from tuberculosis and bacterial infections in renal transplant recipients
Authors: Costalonga Elerson C. , Melo Natalia C.V. , Rodrigues Camila E. , Sette Luis H.B.C. , Ianhez Luiz E.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:  Introduction:  The delay in the diagnosis of infections can be deleterious in renal transplant recipients. Thus, laboratory tests leading to an earlier diagnosis are very useful for these patients.

Purpose:  To assess the behavior of C‐reactive protein (CRP) in renal transplant recipients with a diagnosis of cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection, tuberculosis (TB) and bacterial infection (BI).

Methods:  A retrospective analysis of 129 patients admitted at our hospital, from 2006 to 2008 because of CMV, TB or BI, was carried out. Appropriate statistical analysis was done and values were expressed as medians, range.

Results:  When CRP levels were compared among the groups with CMV disease, TB or BI, the group with CMV disease presented lower levels of CRP (18.4 mg/L, 0.28–44 mg/L) than the TB and BI (p < 0.05) groups. The area under the receiver‐operating characteristics curve, distinguishing CMV disease from TB/BI, was 0.96 (p < 0.0001), resulting in 100% sensitivity and 90.63% specificity to detect CMV disease when CRP < 44.5 mg/L. The subgroup analysis of CMV infection showed increasing levels of CRP (0.28, 16 and 29.5 mg/L) in the asymptomatic, symptomatic and invasive disease subgroups, respectively (p < 0.05).

Conclusion:  The measurement of CRP levels may be a useful tool for differentiating CMV infection from the other types (bacterial or TB) of infection in kidney transplant recipients.
Allergic rhinitis in school‐aged children with asthma – still under‐diagnosed and under‐treated? A retrospective study in a children‘s hospital
Authors: Ruokonen M. , Kaila M. , Haataja R. , Korppi M. , Paassilta M.
Published: July 2009

Ruokonen M, Kaila M, Haataja R, Korppi M, Paassilta M. Allergic rhinitis in school‐aged children with asthma – still under‐diagnosed and under‐treated? A retrospective study in a children‘s hospital. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2010: 21: e149–e154. © 2009 John Wiley & Sons A/S

Allergic rhinitis (AR) and asthma can be considered as manifestations of the same disease entity. The treatment of AR may improve also asthma symptoms. The aim of the study was to evaluate, how often AR is diagnosed and treated in patients with asthma. A retrospective chart review in the allergy and asthma unit of a secondary paediatric hospital. From 903 eligible 7‐ to 15‐year‐old children with doctor‐diagnosed asthma, 372 were randomly included in the study. In all, 229 patients (61.6%, 95% CI: 56.5–66.4%) had symptoms presumptive for AR. The diagnosis of AR was recorded in the patient records only for 87 patients (23.4%, 95% CI: 19.4–28.0). There was evidence that children with AR or nasal symptoms had more severe asthma; 35% of the patients with AR, 23% with nasal symptoms without AR diagnosis and 12% without nasal symptoms required inhaled steroids and long‐acting beta‐agonists for asthma (p = 0.035). AR was both under‐diagnosed and under‐treated in school‐aged children with doctor‐diagnosed asthma.
Pancreas allograft thrombosis following intravenous immunoglobulin administration to treat parvovirus B19 infection
Authors: Muthusamy A.S.R. , Vaidya A.C. , Sinha S. , Atabani S.F. , Haque T. , Jones G. , Cunningham J. , Friend P.J.
Published: July 2009

Abstract:Pancreas graft thrombosis is one of the commonest non‐immunological causes for early graft loss after transplantation. This case report describes a patient who developed graft thrombosis after intravenous immunoglobulin administration to treat acute parvovirus B19 infection. The potential role of hypercoagulability in graft thrombosis and the implications for immunoglobulin therapy in transplant patients with hypercoagulable states is discussed.
Cutaneous infection by Alternaria infectoria in a renal transplant patient
Authors: Segner S. , Jouret F. , Durant J.‐F. , Marot L. , Kanaan N.
Published: July 2009

Abstract: Skin lesions are common in renal transplant recipients (RTR) and the clinical distinction of malignancy versus infection may be difficult in this patient population, with the need for further histological and biological investigations. We report here on a 73‐year‐old male RTR who presented with Alternaria infectoria phaeohyphomycosis of 1 year's duration. Mycological cultures were negative, and the diagnosis was performed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction assay and direct sequencing. The extension of the lesion under itraconazole treatment required its surgical excision. Alternaria are ubiquitous plant‐inhabiting saprobes, which are increasingly associated with opportunistic phaeohyphomycosis in immunocompromised individuals.
Metagenomics reveals diversity and abundance of meta‐cleavage pathways in microbial communities from soil highly contaminated with jet fuel under air‐sparging bioremediation
Authors: Brennerova Maria V. , Josefiova Jirina , Brenner Vladimir , Pieper Dietmar H. , Junca Howard
Published: July 2009

The extradiol dioxygenase diversity of a site highly contaminated with aliphatic and aromatic hydrocarbons under air‐sparging treatment was assessed by functional screening of a fosmid library in Escherichia coli with catechol as substrate. The 235 positive clones from inserts of DNA extracted from contaminated soil were equivalent to one extradiol dioxygenase‐encoding gene per 3.6 Mb of DNA screened, indicating a strong selection for genes encoding this function. Three subfamilies were identified as being predominant, with 72, 55 and 43 fosmid inserts carrying genes, related to those encoding TbuE of Ralstonia pickettii PK01 (EXDO‐D), IpbC of Pseudomonas sp. JR1 (EXDO‐K2) or DbtC of Burkholderia sp. DBT1 (EXDO‐Dbt), respectively, whereas genes encoding enzymes related to XylE of Pseudomonas putida mt‐2 were not observed. Genes encoding oxygenases related to isopropylbenzene dioxygenases were usually colocalized with genes encoding EXDO‐K2 dioxygenases. Functional analysis of representative proteins indicated a subcluster of EXDO‐D proteins to show exceptional high affinity towards different catecholic substrates. Based on Vmax/Km specificity constants, a task‐sharing between different extradiol dioxygenases in the community of the contaminated site can be supposed, attaining a complementary and community‐balanced catalytic power against diverse catecholic derivatives, as necessary for effective degradation of mixtures of aromatics.
Quality of life and patient satisfaction with enhanced recovery protocols
Authors: Khan S. , Wilson T. , Ahmed J. , Owais A. , MacFie J.
Published: July 2009

Aim  The aim of this study was to systematically review the literature on the influence of enhanced recovery after surgery (ERAS) protocols and health related quality of life (HQoL) and patient satisfaction.

Method  A systematic review of the literature from January 1990 to February 2009 was undertaken. Studies were included if they compared HQoL and/or patient satisfaction after ERAS and conventional surgery (CS). Jadad score was used to evaluate the studies. Results were divided into immediate (first week), early (second to third week) and late (more than 30 days after surgery) post‐operative phases. A meta‐analysis was not possible due to the heterogeneity of the studies.

Results  Ten publications were included in the final analysis. In the first week after surgery, two non‐randomised trials found reduced fatigue and another 2 non‐randomised studies found reduced pain with ERAS. One randomised study found increased emotional distress on SF36 in ERAS patients. At two to three weeks after surgery, none of the multidimensional HQoL measures showed any differences. Increuscd fatigue was reported with CS in 2 studies. Limitations in activities of daily living were more marked after CS in one study. Beyond 30 days after surgery, none of the HQoL measures showed any differences. Only one non‐randomised study compared patient satisfaction after ERAS and CS and no difference was found.

Conclusion  There is no evidence that ERAS adversely affect HQoL or patient satisfaction. Certain aspects of HQoL such as pain and fatigue may improve with ERAS. Further research is required, especially in the early post‐operative period.
Robotic colorectal surgery: hype or new hope? A systematic review of robotics in colorectal surgery
Authors: Mirnezami A. H. , Mirnezami R. , Venkatasubramaniam A. K. , Chandrakumaran K. , Cecil T. D. , Moran B. J.
Published: July 2009

Aim  Robotic colorectal surgery is an emerging field and may offer a solution to some of the difficulties inherent to conventional laparoscopic surgery. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive and critical analysis of the available literature on the use of robotic technology in colorectal surgery.

Method  Studies reporting outcomes of robotic colorectal surgery were identified by systematic searches of electronic databases. Outcomes examined included operating time, length of stay, blood loss, complications, cost, oncological outcome, and conversion rates.

Results  Seventeen Studies (nine case series, seven comparative studies, one randomized controlled trial) describing 288 procedures were identified and reviewed. Study heterogeneity precluded a meta‐analysis of the data. Robotic procedures tend to take longer and cost more, but may reduce the length of stay, blood loss, and conversion rates. Complication profiles and short‐term oncological outcomes are similar to laparoscopic surgery.

Conclusion  Robotic colorectal surgery is a promising field and may provide a powerful additional tool for optimal management of more challenging pathology, including rectal cancer. Further studies are required to better define its role.
Social Policy and Development in Latin America: The Long View
Authors: Draibe Sônia , Riesco Manuel
Published: July 2009

In the new development strategy currently shaping Latin America, alternative social policy models have emerged. This article argues that far from being rival alternatives, each of these models considers the wide differences among countries. The region is emerging from a century of transformation – from a traditional agrarian economy to an urban industrial one – in which countries have taken diverse historical paths. Some have almost completed this transformation, others are taking early steps, and the vast majority are living through it. State‐led transition has followed two successive development strategies. From the 1920s up to the 1980s, state developmentalism has mostly successfully assumed the twin challenges of economic and social progress. In the last two decades of the century, Latin American states adopted the policies of the Washington Consensus, which emphasized the importance of business in the framework of globalization and benefited the affluent few. However, an unambiguous shift in direction has been taking place in Latin America since the 1997 economic crisis. This article suggests that a new developmental welfare state model seems to be in the making. How will it evolve over the wider space of an increasingly integrated Latin America?
Social Policy and Inequality in Latin America: A Review of Recent Trends
Authors: Lloyd‐Sherlock Peter
Published: July 2009

Most Latin American countries have extensive social policies which absorb high levels of state spending. Despite this, Latin America continues to suffer from high levels of inequality in terms of income and access to basic services. This article explores this apparent paradox. It focuses on three aspects of social policy in the region: patterns of resource allocation, the distribution of welfare entitlements and differing capacities to take advantage of these entitlements. It applies this framework to study the distributional effects of education, health and social security policies, paying particular attention to recent changes and developments. The article shows that these three factors combine in various ways to benefit higher‐income groups and exclude the poor. Recent changes have marginally improved provision for low‐income groups, but the fundamentally inegalitarian nature of social policy in the region remains largely unchanged and unchallenged.
The Role of Distributional Coalitions in Welfare Regimes: Chile, Costa Rica and El Salvador
Authors: Martínez Franzoni Juliana , Voorend Koen
Published: July 2009

Do social policies in Latin America promote or discourage distribution? And if they do promote distribution, are coalitions a prerequisite? Drawing from a typology of welfare regimes elaborated for 18 Latin American countries, this article explores responses to these questions by addressing three emblematic cases: Chile, Costa Rica and El Salvador – that is, countries where the management of social risks primarily revolves around markets, states and families, respectively. Although the article is exploratory, findings suggest that societal coalitions have been, and are likely to continue to be, weak in market welfare regimes, strong in state welfare regimes and contingent to policy sectors in familialistic welfare regimes.
Retrenchment Reconsidered: Continuity and Change in the Post‐authoritarian Institutions of Chilean Social Policy
Authors: Hertel‐Fernandez Alexander
Published: July 2009

This article analyses the evolution of four social and economic policies reformed under the Chilean military dictatorship – the value‐added tax, the health‐care policy‐making structure, the health‐care finance system and the pension system. It argues that the very institutional features that the military government designed to ensure long‐run policy persistence have, in fact, facilitated dramatic transformation of these policies after the return to democracy. The findings of this article, particularly the unintended effects of institutional reform, question received notions regarding the logic of institutional ‘lock‐in’ and path dependence in the analysis of welfare regimes.
Social Policy for Poor Rural People in Colombia: Reinforcing Traditional Gender Roles and Identities?
Authors: Farah Quijano María A.
Published: July 2009

This article provides a ‘situated’ gender analysis of the Colombian conditional cash transfer programme, Familias en Acción, offering empirical evidence from a specific rural setting. This ‘located’ approach shows that generalizations about gender implications of conditional cash transfer programmes in Latin America do not always fit neatly with realities. The article shows how the implementation of these programmes in a specific rural context, the municipality of Paipa, reflects a reinforcement of traditional gender allocations and responsibilities. At the same time, the local authorities, official workers and the mothers adapt the social programmes to recent gender trends. For example, men may carry out some domestic activities single‐handedly, take care of children without their wives, women may leave men, and women and men may work together in off‐farm activities, with husbands and wives taking joint decisions about domestic issues. In other words, the gender effects of the Familias en Acción programme in rural settings currently move between old gender customs and practices and changeable gender conditions. In Latin‐American terms, it is possible to say that these conditions range between ‘machismo’ and ‘feminist liberalization’.
Social Policy for Poverty Reduction in Lower‐income Countries in Latin America: Lessons and Challenges
Authors: Barrientos Armando , Santibañez Claudio
Published: July 2009

This article provides a comparative study of income transfer programmes recently introduced in lower‐income countries in Central and South America, aimed at raising human development and consumption among groups in extreme poverty. The successful introduction of these programmes is challenging in these countries due to their high incidence of poverty, low delivery capacity and poor service infrastructure. The article discusses the design, implementation and impact of these programmes, as well as their institutionalization and dynamics. It concludes that these programmes can be effective in reducing persistent intergenerational poverty, but that their sustainability is undermined by weak institutionalization.
The pitfalls of extrapolation in conservation: movements and habitat use of a threatened toad are different in the boreal forest
Authors: Constible J. M. , Gregory P. T. , Larsen K. W.
Published: July 2009

Widely distributed species often vary geographically in their ecology. Thus, results of studies done in one part of their range cannot necessarily be extrapolated readily to populations elsewhere. This problem is particularly important for threatened species whose ecology has been studied in a few disconnected locations. The Canadian toadBufo(Anaxyrus)hemiophrysoccupies a large geographic range in western North America, but most studies of its ecology have been done in the prairies, where the species is considered to be closely associated with aquatic habitats. However,B. hemiophrysalso occurs in boreal forest, where it faces threats from logging activities, especially if it uses upland habitats far from ponds and lakes. We radio‐tracked 29 toads in the boreal forest of northern Alberta, Canada to determine their patterns of movement and habitat use. Most movements between fixes were <50 m, but toads sometimes made longer movements exceeding 100 m. Over time, however, these short‐term movements combined into large‐scale directional movements that were highly variable among toads in both tortuosity and timing, but which generally took toads into upland forested habitats. Putative hibernacula also were located in upland sites. However, despite this terrestriality, toads still were associated with wetlands, using them significantly more often than would be expected based on their proportionate areal contribution to the landscape. Nonetheless, use of upland sites and long‐distance terrestrial movements differentiate this population ofB. hemiophrysfrom those studied in prairie environments. Conservation plans based on what we know about the species elsewhere therefore would be inappropriate in this region. Management often requires site‐specific information, which can be obtained only from natural‐history studies of the populations in question.
Gene–environment interplay in internalizing disorders: consistent findings across six environmental risk factors
Authors: Hicks Brian M. , DiRago Ana C. , Iacono William G. , McGue Matt
Published: July 2009

Background:  Behavior genetic methods can help to elucidate gene‐environment (G‐E) interplay in the development of internalizing (INT) disorders (i.e., major depression and anxiety disorders). To date, however, no study has conducted a comprehensive analysis examining multiple environmental risk factors with the purpose of delineating general mechanisms of G‐E influence in the development of INT disorders.

Methods:  The sample consisted of 1315 male and female twin pairs participating in the age 17 assessment of the Minnesota Twin Family Study. Quantitative G‐E interplay models were used to examine how genetic and environmental risk for INT disorders changes as a function of environmental context. Multiple measures and informants were employed to construct composite measures of INT disorders and six environmental risk factors including: stressful life events, mother–child and father–child relationship problems, antisocial and prosocial peer affiliation, and academic achievement and engagement.

Results:  Significant moderation effects were detected between each environmental risk factor and INT such that in the context of greater environmental adversity, nonshared environmental factors became more important in the etiology of INT symptoms.

Conclusion:  Our results are consistent with the interpretation that environmental stressors have a causative effect on the emergence of INT disorders. The consistency of our results suggests a general mechanism of environmental influence on INT disorders regardless of the specific form of environmental risk
A prospective study of toddlers with ASD: short‐term diagnostic and cognitive outcomes
Authors: Chawarska Katarzyna , Klin Ami , Paul Rhea , Macari Suzanne , Volkmar Fred
Published: July 2009

Background:  Despite recent increases in the number of toddlers referred for a differential diagnosis of autism spectrum disorders (ASD), knowledge of short‐term stability of the early diagnosis as well as cognitive outcomes in this cohort is still limited.

Method:  Cognitive, social, and communication skills of 89 clinic‐referred toddlers were assessed at the average age of 21.5 (SD = 4.9) months, and reassessed at 46.9 (SD = 7.7) months. Groups with stable and unstable diagnostic presentation were identified and compared on their profile of cognitive and social‐communicative skills obtained at the time of initial diagnosis.

Results:  Stability of the ASD diagnosis was 100%; diagnosis of autism was stable in 74% of cases as compared to 83% and 81% in PDD‐NOS and Non‐ASD groups, respectively. Worsening of social disability symptoms resulting in autism diagnosis was noted in 17% of toddlers initially diagnosed with PDD‐NOS and in 19% of toddlers with initial diagnosis of non‐ASD disorder. However, marked improvement was noted in approximately 1/4 of children initially presenting with autism, warranting diagnostic reassignment to PDD‐NOS at follow‐up. An analysis of developmental skills profiles suggests particular relevance of the assessment of verbal and nonverbal communication skills to diagnostic differentiation between subtypes within ASD in the second year of life.

Conclusions:  Stability of ASD diagnosis in toddlers is high, though marked changes in severity of symptoms is to be expected in a minority of cases. Simultaneous consideration of cognitive, social, and communication skills profiles enhances accuracy of diagnostic classification and prediction of outcome.
Impaired spatial navigation in pediatric anxiety
Authors: Mueller Sven C. , Temple Veronica , Cornwell Brian , Grillon Christian , Pine Daniel S. , Ernst Monique
Published: July 2009

Background:  Previous theories implicate hippocampal dysfunction in anxiety disorders. Most of the data supporting these theories stem from animal research, particularly lesion studies. The generalization of findings from rodent models to human function is hampered by fundamental inter‐species differences. The present work uses a task of spatial orientation, which is known to rely on hippocampal function. Deficits in spatial navigation in anxious children suggest that the hippocampal network involved in spatial orientation is also implicated in anxiety disorders.

Methods:  Thirty‐four treatment‐naive children with an anxiety disorder (mean 11.00 years ± 2.54) are compared to 35 healthy age‐ and IQ‐matched healthy children (mean 11.95 years ± 2.36) on a virtual, computer‐based equivalent of the Morris Water Maze task.

Results:  Results indicate that children with anxiety disorder exhibit overall impaired performance relative to the comparison group. Anxious children made more heading direction errors and had worse accuracy in completing trials relative to controls.

Conclusions:  The results present novel evidence that spatial orientation deficits occur in pediatric anxiety.
Weight, volume and unbalancing: loading constraints of mud dauber wasps carrying mud balls
Authors: Polidori C. , Federici M. , Trombino L. , Barberini V. , Barbieri V. , Andrietti F.
Published: July 2009

Load‐carrying capacities of flying animals have important effects on their reproductive success, because it is expected that better performing individuals will benefit during activities such as foraging and nest building. Individually marking Sceliphron mud dauber wasp females and collecting their mud balls at three field sites, we investigated whether wasps maximize mud ball lifting and we evaluated whether the characteristics of soil affect wasp–mud ball size relationships. Sceliphron destillatorium, larger than Sceliphron spirifex, collected on average heavier and larger mud balls, and individual female body mass was positively correlated with the mass and volume of carried mud balls. Rarely mud balls reached a weight close to the theoretical maximum. On the other hand, the volume of mud balls roughly coincided on average with the theoretical maximum. A simple theoretical model showed that loss of balance during loaded flights is in part responsible for the failure to maximize the mass lifted, reducing the load‐carrying capacity with a per cent value that is independent of the wasp's size. Soil characteristics also seem to affect the lifting dynamics of wasps: similar‐size females carried significantly lighter mud balls in denser‐soil sites. Our results showed that the volume is the strongest factor limiting mud ball carrying. The effect of such limitations, moreover, may change depending on the physical properties of the material used for nest construction.
Understanding the main factors in the extent and distribution of wild boar rooting on alpine grasslands
Authors: Bueno C. G. , Alados C. L. , Gómez‐García D. , Barrio I. C. , García‐González R.
Published: July 2009

Wild boarSus scrofaL. rooting is a large and frequent disturbance, very extended all over the world. However, its impact in some sensitive habitats, such as alpine and subalpine grasslands remains unknown. These grasslands are considered important sites for biological conservation and traditional grazing activities, and are frequently affected by wild boar rootings. In this study, we selected three study sites representing a range of scenarios in Pyrenean alpine and subalpine grasslands, with differing protection status and grazing management. We assessed the extent of wild boar rooting, and determined the main variables that influence their distribution, taking into account the interactions among them. Our results showed that wild boar rooting significantly affected alpine and subalpine grasslands in the Pyrenees especially in protected non‐hunting areas (up to 12% of the surface). The distribution of disturbed areas was influenced by a hierarchical suite of variables, among which vegetation, that is certain plant communities, was the most important. The apparent preference for dense grasslands might be associated with its soil depth, soil hardness and diversity of feeding resources. The importance of other variables, such as topography, distance to primary resources or grazing management, was site dependent. A broad understanding of the effects of variables and their relationships provide insights into the actual factors affecting the rooting selection. We hypothesize that the selection of feeding habitat, followed by the conditions of the soil to be uprooted and human management, are the main underlying factors that shape the distribution of wild boar rooting in alpine and subalpine grasslands.