bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sex bias and dosage compensation in the zebra finch versus chicken genomes: General and specialized patterns among birds
Authors: Itoh Yuichiro , Replogle Kirstin , Kim Yong-Hwan , Wade Juli , Clayton David F. , Arnold Arthur P.
Published: April 2010

We compared global patterns of gene expression between two bird species, the chicken and zebra finch, with regard to sex bias of autosomal versus Z chromosome genes, dosage compensation, and evolution of sex bias. Both species appear to lack a Z chromosome–wide mechanism of dosage compensation, because both have a similar pattern of significantly higher expression of Z genes in males relative to females. Unlike the chicken Z chromosome, which has female-specific expression of the noncoding RNAMHM(male hypermethylated) and acetylation of histone 4 lysine 16 (H4K16) nearMHM, the zebra finch Z chromosome appears to lack theMHMsequence and acetylation of H4K16. The zebra finch also does not show the reduced male-to-female (M:F) ratio of gene expression nearMHMsimilar to that found in the chicken. Although the M:F ratios of Z chromosome gene expression are similar across tissues and ages within each species, they differ between the two species. Z genes showing the greatest species difference in M:F ratio were concentrated near theMHMregion of the chicken Z chromosome. This study shows that the zebra finch differs from the chicken because it lacks a specialized region of greater dosage compensation along the Z chromosome, and shows other differences in sex bias. These patterns suggest that different avian taxa may have evolved specific compensatory mechanisms.
Purification of Tetrahymena Nuclei by Sedimentation at Unit Gravity: Figure 1.
Authors: Sweet Melody T. , Allis C. David
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

This protocol provides a method for purification of Tetrahymena nuclei using sedimentation at unit gravity. It is useful for applications where purity of micro- and macronuclei is required beyond that which is typically achieved by differential sedimentation alone. When differential sedimentation is followed by sedimentation at unit gravity, micro- and macronuclei can be purified to virtual homogeneity. This method also permits the purification of homogeneous populations of developing new macronuclei (anlagen) and distinct classes of micronuclei from various stages of conjugation.
Phenotypic Analysis of Arabidopsis Mutants: Germination Rate under Salt/Hormone-Induced Stress
Authors: Lee Byeong-ha , Zhu Jian-Kang
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

Abiotic stress, such as high salt or low temperature, adversely affects plant growth and development. Salt stress inhibits seed germination, retards plant growth, and accelerates senescence. Freezing or drought stress can cause cell damage and plant death. The following parameters can be used to evaluate plant tolerance to salt, drought, or freezing stress: root elongation, fresh weight gain, seed germination (described here), electrolyte leakage, or water loss measurement. Several stress mutants have been characterized using these tests, including hos1 and hos2, which show higher expression of some stress-regulated genes when exposed to low-temperature stress; hos5, which shows higher expression of some stress-regulated genes under abscisic acid (ABA) and salt treatments; sfr mutants, which are deficient in freezing tolerance; and eskimo1, which is constitutively freezing-tolerant. This protocol describes a germination assay that can be carried out on seeds subjected to osmotic or hormone-induced stress. The seeds are plated on filter paper saturated with ABA (for hormonal stress) or with NaCl or mannitol (for osmotic stress). The germination rate can be scored on different days; germination is considered to have occurred when the radicles have penetrated the seed coats. The levels of stress suggested in this protocol may need to be adjusted, depending on the ecotype and growth conditions used.
Collection and Mounting of Drosophila Embryos for Imaging: Figure 1.
Authors: Parton Richard M. , Vallés Ana Maria , Dobbie Ian M. , Davis Ilan
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

The fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster is an important model for basic research into the molecular mechanisms underlying cell function and development, as well as a major biomedical research tool. A significant advantage of Drosophila is the ability to apply live cell imaging to a variety of living tissues that can be dissected and imaged in vivo, ex vivo, or in vitro. For example, such imaging can be used for visual genetic screens such as analysis of morphological characteristics or of the distribution of fluorescently tagged proteins in living embryos. Indeed, Drosophila embryos have proven to be a useful model system for studying a variety of cellular processes such as asymmetric division, migration, wound healing, apoptosis, and fasciculation, as well as for tracking lipid droplet motility, protein recycling, fast mRNA transport, and the movement of chromosomal loci within individual cells. A crucial first step before imaging is preparation of the experimental material to ensure physiological relevance and to achieve the best conditions for image quality. Because it contributes to autofluorescence and lack of transparency, it is useful to remove the chorion before imaging by treating the embryos with bleach. This protocol describes the collection and mounting of Drosophila embryos for live cell imaging.
Drosophila Larval Fillet Preparation and Imaging of Neurons: Figure 1.
Authors: Parton Richard M. , Vallés Ana Maria , Dobbie Ian M. , Davis Ilan
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

Drosophila is an established system in which to study synaptic development, function, and plasticity. A particular advantage of the larval neuromuscular system is its consistent well-defined segmental arrangement of neurons and muscle targets. Indeed, the motor neurons of the Drosophila central nervous system are particularly well characterized in terms of origin, identity, morphology, and electrophysiology, and have been used for studies on axonal transport of organelles, vesicle trafficking, and recycling. To facilitate the identification of nerves and synapses in vivo, specific fluorescent protein markers can be used. For example, UASmCD8-green fluorescent protein (GFP) and UASmyr-red fluorescent protein (RFP) both preferentially label plasma membranes, whereas Discs large (DLG) reveals synapses. Gal4 drivers can be used to target all neurons (e.g., elavGal4) or specifically label motor neurons (e.g., d42Gal4). This protocol describes the dissection of Drosophila larvae to isolate neurons for live cell imaging.
Identifying and Removing Artificial Replicates from 454 Pyrosequencing Data
Authors: Teal Tracy K. , Schmidt Thomas M.
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

An intrinsic artifact of 454-based pyrosequencing leads to artificial overrepresentation of >10% of the original DNA sequencing templates. This artificial amplification of sequences is unbiased with regard to position on the pyrosequencing plate or sequence identity, and it occurs in all currently available 454 technologies. The amplified sequences start at the same position and are identical (duplicates), or vary in length, or contain a sequencing discrepancy. If the abundance of any sequence in a data set is going to be enumerated, either for comparative community analysis, transcriptional analysis or other applications, it is important to remove these artificial replicates before analysis. A web-based tool that incorporates the clustering algorithm cd-hit was developed to identify and remove artificially replicated sequences in 454-based pyrosequencing data sets. This tool cannot be used for data sets that have an initial amplification step before the standard pyrosequencing procedure, because artificial replicates cannot be distinguished from expected replication due to polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, e.g., in sequencing of amplified gene “tags.” This protocol provides details on how to use the replicate filter and obtain a file of unique sequences for use in metagenomic or transcriptomic analyses.
Pouring Linear Gradient Gels with a Gradient Former
Authors: Simpson Richard J.
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

Linear gradient gels, which are polyacrylamide gels having a gradient of increasing acrylamide concentration (and linearly decreasing pore size), can have advantages over fixed-concentration SDS-PAGE gels. First, a much greater range of proteinMrvalues can be separated on a linear gradient gel than on a fixed-concentration gel. Second, there is a greater likelihood of resolving proteins with very similarMrvalues on gradient gels than on fixed-concentration gels. This protocol describes the pouring of linear gradient gels with a gradient former. The most common gradient gel contains 4%-20% acrylamide; however, the range of acrylamide concentrations should be chosen on the basis of the size of the proteins being separated.
SYPRO Orange Fluorescent Staining of Protein Gels
Authors: Simpson Richard J.
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

This method for staining protein gels uses a fluorescent dye, SYPRO Orange, which is very sensitive to protein (4-10 ng protein/band). SYPRO Orange cannot be visualized with the naked eye and thus a fluorescence scanner is required for detection of protein bands (the excitation maxima [Ex] are 300/472 nm and the emission maximum [Em] is 570 nm). SYPRO Red fluorescent protein stain uses the same binding principle as SYPRO Orange; hence, this protocol can also be used for SYPRO Red stain (Ex are 300/550 nm and Em is 630 nm). This staining method is mass-spectrometer-compatible.
The Mouse Cornea as a Transplantation Site for Live Imaging of Engineered Tissue Constructs
Authors: Poché Ross A. , Saik Jennifer E. , West Jennifer L. , Dickinson Mary E.
Published: April 2010

INTRODUCTION

The field of tissue engineering aims to recapitulate healthy human organs and 3-D tissue structures in vitro and then transplant these constructs in vivo where they can be effectively integrated within the recipient patient and become perfused by the host circulation. To improve the design of materials for artificial tissue scaffolds, it would be ideal to have a high-throughput imaging system that allows one to directly monitor transplanted tissue constructs in live animals over an extended period of time. By combining such an assay with transgenic, cell-specific fluorescent reporters, one could monitor such parameters as tissue construct perfusion, donor cell survival, and donor-host cell interaction/integration. Here, we describe a protocol for a modified version of the classical corneal micropocket angiogenesis assay, employing it as a live imaging “window” to monitor angiogenic poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG)-based hydrogel tissue constructs.
Ectopic Expression of Apple F3′H Genes Contributes to Anthocyanin Accumulation in the Arabidopsis tt7 Mutant Grown Under Nitrogen Stress
Authors: Han Yuepeng , Vimolmangkang Sornkanok , Soria-Guerra Ruth Elena , Rosales-Mendoza Sergio , Zheng Danman , Lygin Anatoli V. , Korban Schuyler S.
Published: April 2010

Three genes encoding flavonoid 3′-hydroxylase (F3′H) in apple (Malus × domestica), designated MdF3′HI, MdF3′HIIa, and MdF3′HIIb, have been identified. MdF3′HIIa and MdF3′HIIb are almost identical in amino acid sequences, and they are allelic, whereas MdF3′HI has 91% nucleotide sequence identity in the coding region to both MdF3′HIIa and MdF3′HIIb. MdF3′HI and MdF3′HII genes are mapped onto linkage groups 14 and 6, respectively, of the apple genome. Throughout the development of apple fruit, transcriptional levels of MdF3′H genes along with other anthocyanin biosynthesis genes are higher in the red-skinned cv Red Delicious than that in the yellow-skinned cv Golden Delicious. Moreover, patterns of MdF3′H gene expression correspond to accumulation patterns of flavonoids in apple fruit. These findings suggest that MdF3′H genes are coordinately expressed with other genes in the anthocyanin biosynthetic pathway in apple. The functionality of these apple F3′H genes has been demonstrated via their ectopic expression in both the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) transparent testa7-1 (tt7) mutant and tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum). When grown under nitrogen-deficient conditions, transgenic Arabidopsis tt7 seedlings expressing apple F3′H regained red color pigmentation and significantly accumulated both 4′-hydrylated pelargonidin and 3′,4′-hydrylated cyanidin. When compared with wild-type plants, flowers of transgenic tobacco lines overexpressing apple F3′H genes exhibited enhanced red color pigmentation. This suggests that the F3′H enzyme may coordinately interact with other flavonoid enzymes in the anthocyanin biosynthesis pathway.
Potential Role for Purple Acid Phosphatase in the Dephosphorylation of Wall Proteins in Tobacco Cells
Authors: Kaida Rumi , Serada Satoshi , Norioka Naoko , Norioka Shigemi , Neumetzler Lutz , Pauly Markus , Sampedro Javier , Zarra Ignacio , Hayashi Takahisa , Kaneko Takako S.
Published: April 2010

It is not yet known whether dephosphorylation of proteins catalyzed by phosphatases occurs in the apoplastic space. In this study, we found that tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) purple acid phosphatase could dephosphorylate the phosphoryl residues of three apoplastic proteins, two of which were identified as α-xylosidase and β-glucosidase. The dephosphorylation and phosphorylation of recombinant α-xylosidase resulted in a decrease and an increase in its activity, respectively, when xyloglucan heptasaccharide was used as a substrate. Attempted overexpression of the tobacco purple acid phosphatase NtPAP12 in tobacco cells not only decreased the activity levels of the glycosidases but also increased levels of xyloglucan oligosaccharides and cello-oligosaccharides in the apoplast during the exponential phase. We suggest that purple acid phosphatase controls the activity of α-xylosidase and β-glucosidase, which are responsible for the degradation of xyloglucan oligosaccharides and cello-oligosaccharides in the cell walls.
Agrobacterium tumefaciens-Mediated Transformation of Maize Endosperm as a Tool to Study Endosperm Cell Biology
Authors: Reyes Francisca C. , Sun Beimeng , Guo Hena , Gruis Darren (Fred) , Otegui Marisa S.
Published: April 2010

Developing maize (Zea mays) endosperms can be excised from the maternal tissues and undergo tissue/cell-type differentiation under in vitro conditions. We have developed a method to transform in vitro-grown endosperms using Agrobacterium tumefaciens and standard binary vectors. We show that both aleurone and starchy endosperm cells can be successfully transformed using a short cocultivation with A. tumefaciens cells. The highest transformation rates were obtained with the A. tumefaciens EHA101 strain and the pTF101.1 binary vector. The percentage of aleurone cells transformed following this method varied between 10% and 22% whereas up to the eighth layer of starchy endosperm cells underneath the aleurone layer showed transformed cells. Cultured endosperms undergo normal cell type (aleurone and starchy endosperm) differentiation and storage protein accumulation, making them suitable for cell biology and biochemical studies. In addition, transgenic cultured endosperms are able to express and accumulate epitope-tagged storage proteins that can be isolated for biochemical assays or used for immunolabeling techniques.
Role of Thylakoid ATP/ADP Carrier in Photoinhibition and Photoprotection of Photosystem II in Arabidopsis
Authors: Yin Lan , Lundin Björn , Bertrand Martine , Nurmi Markus , Solymosi Katalin , Kangasjärvi Saijaliisa , Aro Eva-Mari , Schoefs Benoît , Spetea Cornelia
Published: April 2010

The chloroplast thylakoid ATP/ADP carrier (TAAC) belongs to the mitochondrial carrier superfamily and supplies the thylakoid lumen with stromal ATP in exchange for ADP. Here, we investigate the physiological consequences of TAAC depletion in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). We show that the deficiency of TAAC in two T-DNA insertion lines does not modify the chloroplast ultrastructure, the relative amounts of photosynthetic proteins, the pigment composition, and the photosynthetic activity. Under growth light conditions, the mutants initially displayed similar shoot weight, but lower when reaching full development, and were less tolerant to high light conditions in comparison with the wild type. These observations prompted us to study in more detail the effects of TAAC depletion on photoinhibition and photoprotection of the photosystem II (PSII) complex. The steady-state phosphorylation levels of PSII proteins were not affected, but the degradation of the reaction center II D1 protein was blocked, and decreased amounts of CP43-less PSII monomers were detected in the mutants. Besides this, the mutant leaves displayed a transiently higher nonphotochemical quenching of chlorophyll fluorescence than the wild-type leaves, especially at low light. This may be attributed to the accumulation in the absence of TAAC of a higher electrochemical H+ gradient in the first minutes of illumination, which more efficiently activates photoprotective xanthophyll cycle-dependent and independent mechanisms. Based on these results, we propose that TAAC plays a critical role in the disassembly steps during PSII repair and in addition may balance the trans-thylakoid electrochemical H+ gradient storage.
Subsurface sediment remobilization as an indicator of regional‐scale defluidization within the upper Tortonian Marnoso‐arenacea formation (Apenninic foredeep, northern Italy)
Authors: Gamberi Fabiano
Published: April 2010

The upper  Tortonian Marnoso‐arenacea Formation displays 10–30 m‐thick sand bodies encased within up to 100 m‐thick packages of thin bedded turbidites and hemipelagites. In situ soft‐sediment deformation resulting in load casts, flames, ball‐and‐pillow and water escape structures often affected the sand body sedimentation units. It is interpreted as being due to a combination of overloading through the rapid deposition of thick massive sandstones and of uneven loading due to the topography created by erosional processes within the sand bodies. Post‐depositional deformation structures are also present. A variety of small‐scale sediment remobilization structures, such as pillars and plastically deformed consolidation laminae are associated with mound‐shaped deformed sandstones. Frequently, the deformed and intruding sand caused the erosion and break up of the overlying fine‐grained beds resulting in mudclast layers and networks of dykes and sills. Thus, the deformation assemblage resembles that associated with larger scale sandstone intrusions. Moreover, an intrusion complex occurs just below the base of one of the sand bodies. It comprises dykes that intrude along synsedimentary extensional faults formed adjacent to a slide scar. The sand intrusion occurred at a shallow burial depth suggesting a close relationship between seafloor instability, sliding and sediment injection along the faults. The suite of post‐depositionally deformed and injected sands is interpreted to result from overpressure build‐up within the sand bodies. In the study area, fluid seepage at the seafloor is marked by ‘calcari a Lucine’ chemiosynthetic carbonates. Thus, it is hypothesized here that the post‐depositional deformation of the sand bodies and injection structures was favoured by an upward flow of deep, hydrocarbon‐rich fluids caused by the ensuing tectonic compressive regime.
Mud diapirs, mud volcanoes and fluid flow in the rear of the Calabrian Arc Orogenic Wedge (southeastern Tyrrhenian sea)
Authors: Gamberi Fabiano , Rovere Marzia
Published: April 2010

In the northern Calabrian margin offshore, the Paola Ridge, seaward from the 700 m deep Paola intraslope basin, tops at a depth of around 600 m. Multibeam bathymetry, seafloor reflectivity and seismic data are available. The Paola Ridge consists of circular or elongated ridges cored by a transparent seismic facies that are interpreted as mud diapirs. The diapirs have radius in the order of 5 km and elevate on average 200 m from the adjacent seafloor. The elongated shape of the diapirs is an evidence of a tectonic influence on the pathways exploited by the rising structures. The most recent seismic unit drapes the topographic relief associated with the diapirs showing that diapir rise is at present mainly quiescent. Pockmarks fields and evidence of gas charged sediments are due to degassing from the inactive diapirs. Two mud volcanoes, shown by high backscatter mud flows fed from circular high backscatter areas centred by a collapse feature, are also present on top of one of the dormant diapirs. The only diapir that is actively rising and deforming the seafloor is not associated with pockmarks. Thus, a relationship between fluid expulsion from the diapiric mass and the arrest of the diapir rise is apparent. The increased seafloor steepness due to diapir rise and the presence of gas within the sedimentary succession promotes sediment instability as shown by a thick slump deposit and numerous mass‐wasting scars. Sometimes, the diapirs rise in coincidence with extensional faults that offset the Messinian evaporites. The mud remobilization structures are located along a NW–SE trending belt characterized by active extensional faulting. Hence, genetic processes similar to many of the mud diapir and volcano provinces of the Mediterranean, consisting of pre‐Messinian source rocks mobilized along discrete belts of active tectonic deformation, is advanced as controlling the setting of the study area.
Supportive counselling by public health nurses for women with postpartum depression
Authors: Glavin Kari , Smith Lars , Sørum Ragnhild , Ellefsen Bodil
Published: April 2010

glavin k., smith l., sørum r. & ellefsen b. (2010) Supportive counselling by public health nurses for women with postpartum depression. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(6), 1317–1327.

Title.  Supportive counselling by public health nurses for women with postpartum depression.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study examining the effect of supportive counselling by public health nurses on postpartum depression.

Background.  Depression is a common condition following childbirth and may have negative consequences for the child’s development, the woman’s health and the relationship between the parents. Psychological intervention is a treatment alternative to biological treatment options and may prevent longer‐term postpartum depression.

Method.  The study was designed as a pragmatic trial. The study population comprised postpartum women, residing in two Norwegian municipalities, who had delivered a live‐born child between June 2005 and December 2006. A total of 228 women were included in the study: 64 in the comparison municipality and 164 in the experimental municipality. Public health nurses (26) in the experimental municipality were trained in identifying postpartum depression and in providing supportive counselling. Pre‐tests were conducted using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale at 6 weeks postpartum. Post‐tests using the same Scale were performed at 3 and 6 months postpartum.

Results.  The depression score decreased statistically significantly in the experimental group compared to the comparison group both at 3 and 6 months postpartum.

Conclusion.  Supportive counselling based on a non‐directive counselling method provided by public health nurses is an effective treatment method for postpartum depression. Further research is required to assess the mothers’ evaluation of the treatment and appraise methods used for management of postpartum depression in primary health care.
Effect of motivational interviewing on smoking cessation in pregnant women
Authors: Karatay Gülnaz , Kublay Gülümser , Emiroğlu Oya Nuran
Published: April 2010

karatay g., kublay g. & emiroğlu o.n. (2010) Effect of motivational interviewing on smoking cessation in pregnant women.Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(6), 1328–1337.

Title. Effect of motivational interviewing on smoking cessation in pregnant women.

Aim. This paper is a report of an evaluation of the effects of a motivational interviewing smoking cessation programme on smoking rates of pregnant women.

Background. Cigarette smoking during pregnancy is an important public health problem. Smoking cessation programmes provide women with an opportunity to learn how to protect their own health and that of their developing babies.

Method. An intervention study was conducted between December 2007 and June 2008. Thirty‐eight pregnant and literate women who were smoking at least one cigarette each day and had not reached their 16th week of pregnancy applied to participate in the research at the prenatal unit of a public hospital. A total of eight home visits was made for each woman with 12‐ to 13‐day intervals between visits; five visits were for intervention, with three follow‐up visits at 1‐month intervals. The intervention content was based on the transtheoretical model. The data were collected using an evaluation form, carbon monoxide level in expired air, cotinine measurements and a Self‐efficacy Scale.

Findings. A total of 39·5% of pregnant smokers gave up smoking; a further 44·7% reduced their smoking by 60% from their starting rate. The rate of passive smoking before the intervention (86·8%) decreased to 55·3%. The mean (sd) pre‐intervention self‐efficacy score was 61·36 (12·61), and it increased to 93·34 (27·04) after the intervention.

Conclusion. The success of this programme shows the need for further development and application of similar programmes by nurses and midwives working in primary health care and antenatal settings.
Reconstructing nursing altruism using a biological evolutionary framework
Authors: Haigh Carol A.
Published: April 2010

haigh c.a. (2010) Reconstructing nursing altruism using a biological evolutionary framework. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(6), 1401–1408.

Title.  Reconstructing nursing altruism using a biological evolutionary framework.

Aim.  This paper presents a discussion of the role of altruism in development of the discipline of nursing and an exploration of how nursing altruism compares with current thinking in biological evolutionary theory. There is an assumption that the role of the nurse has its foundations in altruistic behaviours; however, the source of this altruism is never analysed or debated.

Data sources.  A search of the biological altruism, altruism and health‐related literature encompassing the years 1975–2007 was performed using Google Scholar.

Discussion.  The first element of the study is a brief overview of nursing altruism as a way of establishing the conceptual boundaries. Additionally, the major tenets of biological evolution are explored to clarify the theoretical underpinnings of the hypotheses presented. A key premise of this study is that nursing altruism is not solely a manifestation of disinterested sacrifice for the benefit of others, but is more concerned with ensuring the survival of a clearly defined social group.

Implications for nursing.  A re‐evaluation of altruism as a motivating factor in nursing and as an element of the therapeutic relationship is long overdue. It is time that the nursing profession examined professional driving forces using more than traditional philosophical frameworks.

Conclusion.  Nursing altruism is programmed to ensure the survival of the meme rather than to act in the best interest of patients. Certainly patients reap the benefits of this selfish altruism, but that can be argued to be a side effect rather than a result.
Effectiveness of respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback on state‐anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography
Authors: Mikosch Peter , Hadrawa Tamara , Laubreiter Kornelia , Brandl Josef , Pilz Jürgen , Stettner Haro , Grimm Georg
Published: April 2010

mikosch p., hadrawa t., laubreiter k., brandl j., pilz j., stettner h. & grimm g. (2010) Effectiveness of respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback on state‐anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(5), 1101–1110.

Title.  Effectiveness of respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback on state‐anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography.

Aim.  This study is a report of a study conducted to evaluate the value of psychological assistance including respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback training in its ability to reduce the level of anxiety in patients undergoing coronary angiography.

Background.  Coronary angiography has been reported to cause anxiety and emotional stress.

Methods.  Between March 2004 and January 2005, 212 patients undergoing routine elective coronary angiography for the evaluation of stable coronary artery disease were randomized into two groups. In the psychological support group (n = 106) a structured psychological conversation and respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback training were offered prior to coronary angiography. In the control group (n = 106) standard care and information was provided without psychological support. State‐anxiety was measured (scale 20–80) 1 day prior to and after coronary angiography, along with blood pressure and heart rate.

Findings.  Prior to coronary angiography, state‐anxiety was 54·8 ± 11·5 (mean ± SD) in the control group and 54·8 ± 12·6 in the psychological support group. After coronary angiography, state‐anxiety was 47·9 ± 18·5 in the control group but 28·3 ± 12·5 in the psychological support group (Wilcoxon rank sum test W = 7272, P < 0·001). Blood pressure was statistically significantly lower in the psychological support group prior to the intervention and the day after coronary angiography.

Conclusion.  Psychological support including respiratory‐sinus‐arrhythmia biofeedback is an effective and simple tool that could be used by nurses to reduce state‐anxiety and emotional stress in patients undergoing coronary angiography.
Psychological transition into a residential care facility: older people’s experiences
Authors: Ellis Julie M.
Published: April 2010

ellis j.m. (2010) Psychological transition into a residential care facility: older people’s experiences. Journal of Advanced Nursing 66(5), 1159–1168.

Title.  Psychological transition into a residential care facility: older people’s experiences.

Aim.  The aim of this paper is to discuss the complexity of admission into a residential care facility from a psychological perspective for residents and their relatives and the resulting implications for nursing care.

Background.  Admission into a residential care facility can be a stressful time for older people, as well as for their relatives. Many relatives have requested continued, meaningful involvement in care in the home, and researchers have identified reasons why it is important to implement strategies for including relatives in care.

Data sources.  The background for the paper is published research from the year 2000 on relocation into nursing homes and psychological transitions.

Discussion.  The concepts of transition from the theory of Personal Constructs are used to make sense of challenges faced by residents and their relatives. The psychological transition is experienced in very different ways by both residents and their relatives, and nurses can make a difference to how this major transition is experienced. However, nurses require improved communication strategies (based on the concepts of transition) that will support residents and their relatives during the admission phase.

Implications for nursing.  Nurses in residential care facilities need to develop communication strategies that will have a positive impact on the psychological transition that occurs when an older person is admitted into care.

Conclusion.  Improving the psychological health of older people moving into care should be an important goal for all nurses in residential care facilities. Using the theory of personal constructs as a guide, nurses can intervene to make this psychological transition a more positive experience.
Expression profiles of toll‐like receptors in anterior kidney of channel catfish,Ictalurus punctatus(Rafinesque), acutely infected byEdwardsiella ictaluri
Authors: Pridgeon J W , Russo R , Shoemaker C A , Klesius P H
Published: April 2010

Using quantitative PCR (QPCR), the relative transcriptional levels of five toll‐like receptors (TLR2, TLR3, TLR5, TLR20a and TLR21) were studied in the channel catfish,Ictalurus punctatus(Rafinesque), under uninfected and acutely infected conditions [1‐, 2‐, 4‐, 6‐, 12‐, 24‐, 36‐ and 48‐h post‐injection (hpi)]. Under uninfected conditions, the transcriptional levels of the five TLRs were significantly lower than that of 18S rRNA (P < 0.001). QPCR results also revealed that the transcriptional levels of TLR20a and TLR5 were higher than those of TLR2, TLR3 or TLR21. The transcriptional level of TLR3 was significantly lower than that of the other four TLRs (P < 0.001). However, when channel catfish were acutely infected byEdwardsiella ictalurithrough intraperitoneal injection, the transcriptional levels of TLRs increased significantly (P < 0.005) at 6 hpi. Among the five TLRs studied, the transcriptional levels of TLR3, TLR5 and TLR21 were never significantly lower than under uninfected conditions (P = 0.16, 0.27 and 0.19, respectively), suggesting these three TLRs might play important roles in host defence against infection byE. ictaluri. The amount ofE. ictaluriin the anterior kidney increased at 12 and 24 hpi but decreased at 36 and 48 hpi. Our results suggest that TLRs are important components in the immune system in the channel catfish, and their rapid transcriptional upregulation (within 6 hpi) in response to acuteE. ictaluriinfection might be important for survival from enteric septicaemia of catfish.
Factors influencing in vitro respiratory burst assays with head kidney leucocytes from rainbow trout, Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum)
Authors: Chettri J K , Holten‐Andersen L , Buchmann K
Published: April 2010

Head kidney leucocytes are central elements in a number of in vivo and in vitro assays elucidating innate and adaptive immune mechanisms in teleosts following stimulation with various antigens. These systems are sensitive to several factors affecting the outcome of the assays. The present work describes the importance of temperature, cell concentration, exposure time and immune‐modulatory molecules on the respiratory burst activity (RBA) of rainbow trout head kidney leucocytes in vitro. Some variation in RBA was observed among individual fish. However, use of cells pooled from four individuals produced satisfactory results following exposure to phorbol 12‐myristate 13‐acetate, zymosan and β‐glucan. Temperature was shown to have a significant effect on production of reactive radicals as illustrated by a high activity in cells maintained at 15–20 °C and a reduced activity at temperature extremes (1, 4 and 30 °C). Highest activity was found at a cell concentration of 1 × 107 cells mL−1. Reactivity showed a clear decline when cells were exposed for more than 4 h. Moreover, incubation of cells with inhibitory substances viz., DiMePE2, cortisol and superoxide dismutase decreased the RBA. It is concluded that several biotic and abiotic factors should be taken into account when conducting RBA assays with head kidney leucocytes for elucidation of rainbow trout immune responses.
Pneumococcal CbpD is a murein hydrolase that requires a dual cell envelope binding specificity to kill target cells during fratricide
Authors: Eldholm Vegard , Johnsborg Ola , Straume Daniel , Ohnstad Hilde Solheim , Berg Kari Helene , Hermoso Juan A. , Håvarstein Leiv Sigve
Published: April 2010

Pneumococci that are competent for natural genetic transformation express a number of proteins involved in binding, uptake, translocation and recombination of DNA. In addition, they attack and lyse non‐competent sister cells present in the same environment. This phenomenon has been termed fratricide. The key effector of pneumococcal fratricide is CbpD, a secreted protein encompassing an N‐terminal CHAP domain, two SH3b domains and a C‐terminal choline‐binding domain (CBD). CbpD is believed to degrade the cell wall of target cells, but experimental evidence supporting this hypothesis has been lacking. Here, we show that CbpD indeed has muralytic activity, and that this activity requires functional CBD and SH3b domains. To better understand the critical role played by the non‐catalytic C‐terminal region of CbpD, various translational fusions were constructed between the CBD and SH3b domains and green fluorescent protein (GFP). The results showed that the SH3b domains specifically recognize and bind peptidoglycan, while the CBD domain functions as a localization signal that directs CbpD to the septal region of the pneumococcal cell. Intriguingly, transmission electron microscopy analysis revealed that target cells attacked by CbpD ruptures at the septal region, in accordance with the binding specificity displayed by the CBD domain.
Amino‐terminal residues dictate the export efficiency of the Campylobacter jejuni filament proteins via the flagellum
Authors: Neal‐McKinney Jason M. , Christensen Jeffrey E. , Konkel Michael E.
Published: April 2010

Bacterial flagella play an essential role in the pathogenesis of numerous enteric pathogens. The flagellum is required for motility, colonization, and in some instances, for the secretion of effector proteins. In contrast to the intensively studied flagella of Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, the flagella of Campylobacter jejuni, Helicobacter pylori and Vibrio cholerae are less well characterized and composed of multiple flagellin subunits. This study was performed to gain a better understanding of flagellin export from the flagellar type III secretion apparatus of C. jejuni. The flagellar filament of C. jejuni is comprised of two flagellins termed FlaA and FlaB. We demonstrate that the amino‐termini of FlaA and FlaB determine the length of the flagellum and motility of C. jejuni. We also demonstrate that protein‐specific residues in the amino‐terminus of FlaA and FlaB dictate export efficiency from the flagellar type III secretion system (T3SS) of Yersinia enterocolitica. These findings demonstrate that key residues within the amino‐termini of two nearly identical proteins influence protein export efficiency, and that the mechanism governing the efficiency of protein export is conserved among two pathogens belonging to distinct bacterial classes. These findings are of additional interest because C. jejuni utilizes the flagellum to export virulence proteins.
A 20‐residue peptide of the inner membrane protein OutC mediates interaction with two distinct sites of the outer membrane secretin OutD and is essential for the functional type II secretion system in Erwinia chrysanthemi
Authors: Login Frédéric H. , Fries Markus , Wang Xiaohui , Pickersgill Richard W. , Shevchik Vladimir E.
Published: April 2010

The type II secretion system (T2SS) is widely exploited by proteobacteria to secrete enzymes and toxins involved in bacterial survival and pathogenesis. The outer membrane pore formed by the secretin OutD and the inner membrane protein OutC are two key components of the secretion complex, involved in secretion specificity. Here, we show that the periplasmic regions of OutC and OutD interact directly and map the interaction site of OutC to a 20‐residue peptide named OutCsip (secretin interacting peptide, residues 139–158). This peptide interacts in vitro with two distinct sites of the periplasmic region of OutD, one located on the N0 subdomain and another overlapping the N2‐N3′ subdomains. The two interaction sites of OutD have different modes of binding to OutCsip. A single substitution, V143S, located within OutCsip prevents its interaction with one of the two binding sites of OutD and fully inactivates the T2SS. We show that the N0 subdomain of OutD interacts also with a second binding site within OutC located in the region proximal to the transmembrane segment. We suggest that successive interactions between these distinct regions of OutC and OutD may have functional importance in switching the secretion machine.
Membrane invagination in Rhodobacter sphaeroides is initiated at curved regions of the cytoplasmic membrane, then forms both budded and fully detached spherical vesicles
Authors: Tucker Jaimey D. , Siebert C. Alistair , Escalante Maryana , Adams Peter G. , Olsen John D. , Otto Cees , Stokes David L. , Hunter C. Neil
Published: April 2010

The purple phototrophic bacteria synthesize an extensive system of intracytoplasmic membranes (ICM) in order to increase the surface area for absorbing and utilizing solar energy. Rhodobacter sphaeroides cells contain curved membrane invaginations. In order to study the biogenesis of ICM in this bacterium mature (ICM) and precursor (upper pigmented band – UPB) membranes were purified and compared at the single membrane level using electron, atomic force and fluorescence microscopy, revealing fundamental differences in their morphology, protein organization and function. Cryo‐electron tomography demonstrates the complexity of the ICM of Rba. sphaeroides. Some ICM vesicles have no connection with other structures, others are found nearer to the cytoplasmic membrane (CM), often forming interconnected structures that retain a connection to the CM, and possibly having access to the periplasmic space. Near‐spherical single invaginations are also observed, still attached to the CM by a ‘neck’. Small indents of the CM are also seen, which are proposed to give rise to the UPB precursor membranes upon cell disruption. ‘Free‐living’ ICM vesicles, which possess all the machinery for converting light energy into ATP, can be regarded as bacterial membrane organelles.
Cell wall synthesis is necessary for membrane dynamics during sporulation of Bacillus subtilis
Authors: Meyer Pablo , Gutierrez Jennifer , Pogliano Kit , Dworkin Jonathan
Published: April 2010

During Bacillus subtilis sporulation, an endocytic‐like process called engulfment results in one cell being entirely encased in the cytoplasm of another cell. The driving force underlying this process of membrane movement has remained unclear, although components of the machinery have been characterized. Here we provide evidence that synthesis of peptidoglycan, the rigid, strength bearing extracellular polymer of bacteria, is a key part of the missing force‐generating mechanism for engulfment. We observed that sites of peptidoglycan synthesis initially coincide with the engulfing membrane and later with the site of engulfment membrane fission. Furthermore, compounds that block muropeptide synthesis or polymerization prevented membrane migration in cells lacking a component of the engulfment machinery (SpoIIQ), and blocked the membrane fission event at the completion of engulfment in all cells. In addition, these compounds inhibited bulge and vesicle formation that occur in spoIID mutant cells unable to initiate engulfment, as did genetic ablation of a protein that polymerizes muropeptides. This is the first report to our knowledge that peptidoglycan synthesis is necessary for membrane movements in bacterial cells and has implications for the mechanism of force generation during cytokinesis.
The trypanolytic factor of human serum: many ways to enter the parasite, a single way to kill
Authors: Vanhollebeke Benoit , Pays Etienne
Published: April 2010

Humans have developed a particular innate immunity system against African trypanosomes, and only two Trypanosoma brucei clones (T. b. gambiense, T. b. rhodesiense) can resist this defence and cause sleeping sickness. The main players of this immunity are the primate‐specific apolipoprotein L‐I (apoL1) and haptoglobin‐related protein (Hpr). These proteins are both associated with two serum complexes, a minor subfraction of HDLs and an IgM/apolipoprotein A‐I (apoA1) complex, respectively, termed trypanosome lytic factor (TLF) 1 and TLF2. Although the two complexes appear to lyse trypanosomes by the same mechanism, they enter the parasite through various modes of uptake. In case of TLF1 one uptake process was characterized. When released in the circulation, haemoglobin (Hb) binds to Hpr, hence to TLF1. In turn the TLF1–Hpr–Hb complex binds to the trypanosome haptoglobin (Hp)–Hb receptor, whose original function is to ensure haem uptake for optimal growth of the parasite. This binding triggers efficient uptake of TLF1 and subsequent trypanosome lysis. While Hpr is involved as TLF ligand, the lytic activity is due to apoL1, a Bcl‐2‐like pore‐forming protein. We discuss the in vivo relevance of this uptake pathway in the context of other potentially redundant delivery routes.
Exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus in German shorthaired pointer dogs: disease development, progression and evaluation of three immunomodulatory drugs (ciclosporin, hydroxychloroquine, and adalimumab) in a controlled environment
Authors: Mauldin Elizabeth A. , Morris Daniel O. , Brown Dorothy C. , Casal Margret L.
Published: April 2010

Six German shorthaired pointer dogs (two females, four males) with exfoliative cutaneous lupus erythematosus (ECLE) were studied in a controlled setting until disease progression necessitated euthanasia. During investigations into the heredity of disease, five dogs received immunomodulatory drugs to alleviate clinical signs (lameness, erythema, scaling, erosions/ulcers). One dog served as a control and received only baths and oral fatty acids. Four dogs received ciclosporin (5–10 mg/kg once daily) for 4.5 months to 2 years. Ciclosporin decreased erythema and arthralgia, but did not halt worsening of lesions. Three dogs received hydroxychloroquine (5–10 mg/kg once daily) for 8 weeks, 7 months, and 9 months, respectively, with no side effects. Hydroxychloroquine appeared to slow clinical progression in two dogs on extended treatment and normalized globulin levels in all three dogs while receiving the drug. Four dogs, including the control dog, were euthanized between 1 and 4.5 years of age. Two remaining male dogs received a tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α antagonist, adalimumab, at 0.5 mg/kg every 2 weeks for 8 weeks then weekly for 8 weeks. Serum TNF‐α levels were not significantly altered nor were quantifiable changes seen in skin lesions or lameness. Subsequently, the dogs were maintained on hydroxychloroquine for another year. This is the first study to evaluate the use of a TNF‐α inhibitor for canine lupus and the first to address the safety of long‐term administration of hydroxychloroquine, albeit in a small number of dogs. The study documents the progression of ECLE and generally poor response to therapy.
Has undergraduate education prepared occupational therapy students for possible practice in palliative care?
Authors: Meredith Pamela Joy
Published: April 2010

Background:  It has been argued that the unique nature of the occupational therapy role in palliative care (PC) warrants dedicated attention in undergraduate programmes to improve the confidence of occupational therapy graduates to work in this setting. Nevertheless, little is known about either the present PC education or the preparedness of graduates to work in this field. In addressing each of these issues, this study also sought information to guide the development of occupational therapy‐specific undergraduate teaching resources.

Methods:  Survey information was gathered from two participant groups: (i) six occupational therapy schools from Australia and New Zealand and (ii) 24 occupational therapists employed in PC in Australia and New Zealand. Two different surveys were used, targeting issues specific to each of these two groups. Where possible, data were analysed quantitatively, whereas open‐ended questions were interpreted thematically.

Results:  Occupational therapy schools reported 2–10 hours of PC‐specific content and requested teaching resources specific to the occupational therapy role. Less than half of the clinicians (45.8%) recalled receiving undergraduate content in PC, and 75% reported having felt unprepared to work in this field. Clinicians who had received PC‐specific content at university felt more prepared to work in this field than those who had not. Several recommendations for teaching PC were made.

Conclusions:  The link between the extent of PC education received and perceived readiness to work in this field, together with the relatively small amount of dedicated undergraduate PC‐specific content, supports the need to optimise teaching in this unique field.