bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The relation of the subjective dyspnoea perception with objective dyspnoea indicators, quality of life and functional capacity in patients with COPD
Authors: Akinci Ayse Cil , Pinar Rukiye , Demir Tuncalp
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  The study was conducted to determine the relationship between the subjective dyspnoea perception and objective dyspnoea indicators, quality of life and functional capacity.

Background.  Even though dyspnoea severity is generally assessed through objective parameters such as respiratory functions and arterial blood gases, studies indicate that subjectively perceived dyspnoea is not always consistent with objective dyspnoea indicators. For that reason, it is necessary to assess the changes caused by dyspnoea on quality of life and on functional capacity in addition to objective dyspnoea indicators to assess subjective dyspnoea in the most accurate way in patients with COPD.

Design.  A correlational study.

Methods.  The subjective dyspnoea was evaluated via the Basal Dyspnea Index and Visual Analog Scale, whereas objective dyspnoea was evaluated through respiratory function tests and arterial blood gases, which are physiological measurements. The quality of life was assessed with SF‐36 and St. George’s Respiratory Diseases Questionnaire. Functional capacity was evaluated with the six‐minute walking distance test.

Results.  Basal Dyspnea Index score was associated with respiratory functions (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC), arterial blood gases (SaO2, PaO2, pH), the quality of life and functional capacity, while Visual Analog Scale score was not associated with these measurements.

Conclusions.  Subjective dyspnoea severity assessed by Basal Dyspnea Index is related to the objective dyspnoea indicators, quality of life and functional capacity. In the assessment of dyspnoea, Basal Dyspnea Index is an appropriate measure, whereas Visual Analog Scale is not. In the light of these results, we recommend that Basal Dyspnea Index should be used in the assessment of dyspnoea in patients with COPD.

Relevance to clinical practice.  We conclude that dyspnoea will be evaluated in the most accurate and short way with the Basal Dyspnea Index. In addition, the effects of dyspnoea on quality of life and functional capacity will be predicted by Basal Dyspnea Index.
The meaning of the lived experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities in a Swedish institutional care setting: a reflective lifeworld approach
Authors: Hallrup Leena Berlin
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  This study describes the meaning of the lived experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities in a Swedish institutional care setting.

Background.  Despite the general intention of the Swedish law to give care and support for adults with intellectual disabilities in small settings in the community, large institutional care settings exist in Sweden. It is also known that adults with intellectual disabilities have more influence over their care and support when living in small settings than in large institutions. There is a dearth research in regard to studies that focus on how adults with intellectual disabilities experiences their everyday life in such settings.

Design.  A qualitative design was used to gain a deeper understanding of the lived experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities in an institutional care setting in Sweden.

Methods.  Fieldwork from September 2006 to June 2009 in an institutional care setting including participant observation and in‐depth interviews with 12 residents was used. Verbatim‐transcribed text was analysed using a phenomenological reflective lifeworld approach.

Results.  The essential picture of the phenomenon was experienced ‘as a meaningful and meaningless existence’ and was reflected in residents’ descriptions of their everyday life in the setting. It was characterised by the constituents: ambiguous dependency, social interactions and everyday life in a restricted area.

Conclusion.  The results reveal the importance of paying close attention to what adults with intellectual disabilities have to say about their everyday life when living in an institutional care setting. For caring practices of people with intellectual disabilities, it is scarcely satisfactory that residents experience an ambivalent dependency and of having to live in a restricted area.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The results of this study contribute to better insight and deeper knowledge of the lived experiences of adults with intellectual disabilities, enabling the staff and management to further enhance the well‐being for residents. In addition, the findings provide feedback to staff, managers and researchers working in the intellectual disabilities field.
Testing the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research on health care innovations from South Yorkshire
Authors: Ilott Irene , Gerrish Kate , Booth Andrew , Field Becky
Published: July 2012

Rationale, aims and objectives

There is an international imperative to implement research into clinical practice to improve health care. Understanding the dynamics of change requires knowledge from theoretical and empirical studies. This paper presents a novel approach to testing a new meta theoretical framework: the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research.

Method

The utility of the Framework was evaluated using a post hoc, deductive analysis of 11 narrative accounts of innovation in health care services and practice from England, collected in 2010. A matrix, comprising the five domains and 39 constructs of the Framework was developed to examine the coherence of the terminology, to compare results across contexts and to identify new theoretical developments.

Results

The Framework captured the complexity of implementation across 11 diverse examples, offering theoretically informed, comprehensive coverage. The Framework drew attention to relevant points in individual cases together with patterns across cases; for example, all were internally developed innovations that brought direct or indirect patient advantage. In 10 cases, the change was led by clinicians. Most initiatives had been maintained for several years and there was evidence of spread in six examples. Areas for further development within the Framework include sustainability and patient/public engagement in implementation.

Conclusion

Our analysis suggests that this conceptual framework has the potential to offer useful insights, whether as part of a situational analysis or by developing context‐specific propositions for hypothesis testing. Such studies are vital now that innovation is being promoted as core business for health care.
Meeting the needs of families and carers on acute psychiatric wards: a nurse‐led service
Authors: RADCLIFFE J. J. L. , ADESHOKAN E. O. , THOMPSON P. C. , BAKOWSKI A. J.
Published: July 2012

Accessible summary

Families and carers of inpatients often have little contact with ward staff.

A nurse‐led service was set up to address this issue.

Families were highly satisfied with the service they received.

The needs of families and carers are often not met by the busy staff on inpatient units. A nurse‐led family and carers service was set up on three adult acute psychiatric wards. A four‐session protocol was developed for structuring sessions with families and carers. Methods of engaging reluctant carers were developed. Satisfaction rates are high. Families and carers value the emotional support, improved communication, help and advice. About one quarter are referred on for further input after discharge. A nurse‐run service for the families and carers can make a significant difference to those who use it, providing support, creating a working alliance and improving the two‐way exchange of information.
Sleep and sleepiness in children with attention deficit / hyperactivity disorder and controls
Authors: WIEBE SABRINA , CARRIER JULIE , FRENETTE SONIA , GRUBER REUT
Published: July 2012

The present study assessed the association between habitual sleep patterns and one night of PSG measured sleep with daytime sleepiness in children with ADHD and typically developing children. Eighty‐two children (26 ADHD, 56 typically developing children), between 7 and 11 years, had nighttime sleep recorded using actigraphy over five nights (habitual sleep patterns) and polysomnography during one night (immediate sleep patterns), both within their home environments. Daytime sleepiness was examined using the multiple sleep latency test within a controlled laboratory setting the following day. Using Spearman correlations, the relationships between mean sleep latencies on the multiple sleep latency test and scores on a modified Epworth Sleepiness Scale with polysomnographic measures of sleep quality and architecture and with actigraphic sleep quality measures were examined. Longer sleep latency, measured using polysomnography and actigraphy, was related to longer mean sleep latencies on the multiple sleep latency test in typically developing participants, whereas actigraphic measures of sleep restlessness (time awake and activity during the night), as well as time in slow‐wave sleep, were positively related to mean sleep latency on the multiple sleep latency test in children with ADHD. These results show a differential relationship for children with ADHD and typically developing children between habitual and immediate sleep patterns with daytime sleepiness and suggest that problems initiating and maintaining sleep may be present both in nighttime and daytime sleep.
Therapy‐induced clearance of HCV core antigen from plasma predicts an end of treatment viral response
Authors: Tedder R. S. , Tuke P. , Wallis N. , Wright M. , Nicholson L. , Grant P. R.
Published: July 2012

Summary.  During viral assembly, viral proteins are released into plasma and can be used to infer viral load. The Architect hepatitis C virus (HCV) core antigen (Ag) assay is a potential alternative to HCV RNA quantification for measuring response to therapy and predicting an end of treatment viral response (EOTR). The HCVp22Ag assay was used to infer viral load in 68 window RNA‐containing samples and in 284 samples from baseline to week 14 of ribavirin/interferon treatment in 23 patients with EOTR including three who relapsed, 20 not achieving EOTR and 11 controls. HCV Ag and RNA correlated well (r = 0.86) with linear dose responses on dilution. In patients on therapy and control patients, plasma HCV antigen was detected in 51 of 54 with an interpolated LOD cut off between 103 and 104 RNA IU/mL. Plasma HCV antigenaemia and plasma RNA levels were significantly different in EOTR from non‐EOTR patients at 3 days after treatment start and all times thereafter. Positive and negative EOTR predictive values for HCV RNA >2 log drop and HCV Ag loss at 12 weeks were 70% and 74%, 85% and 93% respectively. HCV Ag reactivity has a linear dose response independent of genotype and correlates well with HCV RNA. The failure to clear HCV Ag is as accurate as the failure to clear HCV RNA at twelve weeks into therapy in predicting the likelihood of failure to achieve EOTR. HCV Ag potentially offers a convenient alternative to RNA measurement for defining a futility flag in HCV therapy.
Cyclical vomiting syndrome in children: a prospective study
Authors: Drumm B. R. , Bourke B. , Drummond J. , Mcnicholas F. , Quinn S. , Broderick A. , Taaffe S. , Twomey J. , Rowland M.
Published: July 2012

Background  Cyclical vomiting syndrome (CVS) is a disorder that affects all ages and is characterized by episodes of severe nausea and vomiting with symptom‐free intervals between episodes. The incidence in children is 3.15/100 000 children per year. Our objective was to evaluate the natural history of CVS and examine factors that predict symptom resolution.

Methods  Thirty newly diagnosed children (mean 9.15 years, SD 3.31 range 3.5–15.7) were enrolled. All children had a follow‐up interview at 3 months, 27/30 at 6 months, and 22/30 at 9 months.

Key Results  Following diagnosis of CVS, only 5/22(22.7%) children had no further episodes of vomiting at 9 months, whereas 17/22 (77.3%) continued to vomit. In the year prior to diagnosis, 15/30 (50%) children were admitted to hospital. Of the 22 children with follow‐up for 9 months, only one child required hospital admission. Children who continued to vomit had higher internalizing scores on CBCL compared with those who stopped vomiting (P = NS). The Pediatric Quality‐of‐Life Score suggested those who continued to vomit had a poorer quality of life at diagnosis compared with those who stopped vomiting (P < 0.05).

Conclusions & Inferences  Making a positive diagnosis of CVS and providing families with information is very important in the management of CVS. Although 75% of children reported regular episodes of vomiting 9 months after diagnosis, there was a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of symptoms in addition to a marked reduction in the use of medical services.
A zinc finger protein gene ZFP5 integrates phytohormone signaling to control root hair development in Arabidopsis
Authors: An Lijun , Zhou Zhongjing , Sun Lili , Yan An , Xi Wanyan , Yu Nan , Cai Wenjuan , Chen Xiaoya , Yu Hao , Schiefelbein John , Gan Yinbo
Published: July 2012

Although root hair development in Arabidopsis thaliana has been extensively studied, it remains unknown whether the zinc finger proteins, the largest family of transcription factors in plants, are involved in this process. Here we report that the C2H2 zinc finger protein ZINC FINGER PROTEIN 5 (ZFP5) is a key regulator of root hair initiation and morphogenesis in Arabidopsis. ZFP5 is mainly expressed in root and preferentially in root hair cells. Using both zfp5 mutants and ZFP5 RNAi lines, we show that reduction in ZFP5 function leads to fewer and much shorter root hairs compared to wild‐type. Genetic and molecular experiments demonstrate that ZFP5 exerts its effect on root hair development by directly promoting expression of the CAPRICE (CPC) gene. Furthermore, we show that ZFP5 expression is induced by cytokinin, and that ZFP5 mediates cytokinin and ethylene effects on the formation and growth of root hairs. These results suggest that ZFP5 integrates various plant hormone cues to control root epidermal cell development in Arabidopsis.
Conversion of chlorophyll b to chlorophyll a precedes magnesium dechelation for protection against necrosis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Shimoda Yousuke , Ito Hisashi , Tanaka Ayumi
Published: July 2012

Chlorophyll is a deleterious molecule that generates reactive oxygen species and must be converted to non‐toxic molecules during plant senescence. The degradation pathway of chlorophyll a has been determined; however, that of chlorophyll b is poorly understood, and multiple pathways of chlorophyll b degradation have been proposed. In this study, we found that chlorophyll b is degraded by a single pathway, and elucidated the importance of this pathway in avoiding cell death. In order to determine the chlorophyll degradation pathway, we first examined the substrate specificity of 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a reductase. 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a reductase reduces 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a but not 7‐hydroxymethyl pheophytin a or 7‐hydroxymethyl pheophorbide a. These results indicate that the first step of chlorophyll b degradation is its conversion to 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a by chlorophyll b reductase, although chlorophyll b reductase has broad substrate specificity. In vitro experiments showed that chlorophyll b reductase converted all of the chlorophyll b in the light‐harvesting chlorophyll a/b protein complex to 7‐hydroxymethyl chlorophyll a, but did not completely convert chlorophyll b in the core antenna complexes. When plants whose core antennae contained chlorophyll b were incubated in the dark, chlorophyll b was not properly degraded, and the accumulation of 7‐hydroxymethyl pheophorbide a and pheophorbide b resulted in cell death. This result indicates that chlorophyll b is not properly degraded when it exists in core antenna complexes. Based on these results, we discuss the importance of the proper degradation of chlorophyll b.
RHD zygosity assignments based on most probable genotype and hybrid Rhesus box detection in Tunisia
Authors: Kacem Narjes , Chakroun Tahar , Moussa Hajer , Abdelkefi Saïda , Houissa Betoul , Chiaroni Jacques , Jemni Yacoub Saloua
Published: July 2012

Background

Determination of the RHD zygosity is important for genetic counselling and risk evaluation of hemolytic disease of the newborn HDN in women with D iso‐immunisation.

Objectives

We proposed to determine the genotype frequencies of the RHD locus using a PCR‐SSP method and assignment of the most probable genotype (MPG) and analyse the concordance between the two methods.

Methods

The complete Rh phenotype and the frequencies of RH haplotypes were determined on 506 blood donors. RHD zygosity was determined by both assignment of the MPG and PCR‐SSP specific for the hybrid Rhesus box. For RH:−1 samples, analysis of the RHD exon 10 was done to detect eventual RHD aberrant alleles.

Results

Among the 466 RH:1 samples, 54·08% were hemizygous and 45·92% homozygous by PCR‐SSP, and 64·16% hemizygous and 35·84% homozygous by the MPG. The comparison between the methods showed discordant results in 135 RH:1 samples. For the 40 RH:−1 samples, hybrid Rhesus box was detected in all samples and RHD exon 10 was detected in three samples suggesting unequivocal alleles identified as one RHDψ, one (C)ces and one weak D type 4.

Conclusion

The PCR‐SSP should replace the MPG. However, studying of aberrant RHD alleles and aberrant Rhesus boxes could confirm the accuracy of this method in Tunisian population.
Assessment of rebound and relapse following ecallantide treatment for acute attacks of hereditary angioedema
Authors: Bernstein J. A. , Shea E. P. , Koester J. , Iarrobino R. , Pullman W. E.
Published: July 2012

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is a rare genetic disease characterized by unpredictable and recurring attacks of angioedema. This study assessed potential attack rebound and relapse following treatment with ecallantide, a plasma kallikrein inhibitor approved for HAE attack treatment.

Methods

Results were integrated from 2 double‐blind, placebo‐controlled studies of ecallantide treatment for HAE: EDEMA3‐DB and EDEMA4. Symptoms were assessed by treatment outcome score (TOS), mean symptom complex severity (MSCS) score, and global response. Patients with improvement at 4 h post‐dosing in all three measures followed by any sign of worsening at 24 h were considered to show potential rebound if worsening was beyond baseline or potential relapse if not beyond baseline. Likeliness of rebound or relapse was determined by the number of measures showing worsening and the magnitude of worsening. Patients receiving placebo who met the criteria for rebound/relapse were evaluated for descriptive comparison only.

Results

Significantly more ecallantide‐treated patients (42 of 70) compared to placebo (26 of 71) showed improvement in three measures at 4 h and were thus eligible for rebound/relapse (P = 0.006). Of the nine ecallantide‐treated patients with signs of worsening at 24 h, none were likely rebound, one was assessed as possible rebound, one as likely relapse, and two as possible relapse. No patient with potential rebound/relapse experienced new symptoms after dosing. Medical intervention was required in one ecallantide‐treated patient.

Conclusion

Ecallantide was efficacious for treating acute HAE attacks. Relapse was observed in a small proportion of patients, and there was little evidence of rebound.
CX3CL1 in allergic diseases: not just a chemotactic molecule
Authors: Julia V.
Published: July 2012

Allergic asthma and atopic dermatitis (AD) are two allergic diseases that are primarily driven by the activation of T helper (Th)2 cells. Th2 cells produce cytokines that directly contribute to the symptoms of these diseases. The recruitment and maintenance of Th2 cells into the target tissues are two key events in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma and AD. While migration is mediated by both chemokines and lipid mediators such as leukotrienes and prostaglandins, very little is known about the molecules involved in lymphocyte survival and maintenance in inflamed tissues. However, chemokines could also play a role in this phenomenon. An example of this could be illustrated by CX3CL1, also known as fractalkine. CX3CL1 is a chemokine that is upregulated in some inflammatory diseases including allergic pathologies and that was recently demonstrated to provide a survival signal upon binding to its unique receptor CX3CR1.
Identification of a novel HLA allele, HLA‐DQB1*06:51, in a Japanese rheumatoid arthritis patient
Authors: Oka S. , Furukawa H. , Kashiwase K. , Tsuchiya N. , Tohma S.
Published: July 2012

A novel HLA allele, HLA‐DQB1*06:51, was identified in a Japanese rheumatoid arthritis patient.
Chronic rhinosinusitis: From one disease to different phenotypes
Authors: Bachert Claus , Zhang Nan , van Zele Thibaut , Gevaert Philippe
Published: July 2012

To cite this article: Bachert C, Zhang N, van Zele T, Gevaert P. Chronic rhinosinusitis: From one disease to different phenotypes. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012: 23 (Suppl. 22): 2–4.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) has now been discovered as a frequent disease affecting about 11% of the European population. In clinical terms, CRS may be differentiated in two phenotypes, CRS with and without nasal polyps. This differentiation is also confirmed by immunohistochemical studies on the remodeling pattern of those diseases, identifying TGF‐ß as the key regulator. Further differentiation may be based on the inflammatory patterns, differentiating endotypes based on prominent T helper cell cytokines such as interleukin‐5 and the presence of IgE antibodies against Staphylococcus aureus enterotoxins. The importance of those endotypes has been confirmed by innovative studies using humanized antibodies applied to nasal polyp disease, and by their predictive value for asthma comorbidity. Biomarkers may thus be needed to fully appreciate the CRS disease spectrum and its link to asthma.
Diagnosis of acute rhinosinusitis
Authors: Esposito Susanna , Marchisio Paola , Tenconi Rossana , Tagliaferri Laura , Albertario Giada , Patria Maria Francesca , Principi Nicola
Published: July 2012

To cite this article: Esposito S, Marchisio P, Tenconi R, Tagliaferri L, Albertario G, Patria MF, Principi N. Diagnosis of acute rhinosinusitis in children. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012: 23 (Suppl. 22): 17–19.

Rhinosinusitis is almost always a complication of a viral infection involving the upper respiratory tract. A common cold is the first symptom of rhinosinusitis, but infectious processes involving the nose inevitably affect the paranasal sinuses because of their anatomical contiguity. The symptoms remain those of a common cold as long as nasal phlogosis is moderate and the ostia between the nose and sinuses are patent. If the inflammation is intense, edema may obliterate the ostia and isolate the sinuses, thus stopping the removal of the exudates. The duration of symptoms makes it possible to distinguish acute (10–30 days) from subacute (30–90 days) and chronic rhinosinusitis (>90 days). The diagnosis of rhinosinusitis should only be based on anamnestic and clinical criteria in children with serious or persistent symptoms of upper respiratory tract infection, or which appear within a short time of an apparent recovery. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance images of the paranasal sinuses should be reserved for children reasonably considered to be candidates for surgery. Antibiotics are recommended in cases of mild acute bacterial rhinosinusitis as a means of accelerating the resolution of symptoms. The use of antibiotics is mandatory in severe acute bacterial rhinosinusitis to cure the disease and avoid the possible onset of severe complications.
Diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis
Authors: Leo Gualtiero , Triulzi Fabio , Incorvaia Cristoforo
Published: July 2012

To cite this article: Leo G, Triulzi F, Incorvaia C. Diagnosis of chronic rhinosinusitis. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012: 23 (Suppl. 22): 20–26.

Chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) is a rather common disease in children, but its symptoms are often subtle and non‐specific and this may result in overlooking a correct diagnosis. In turn, a missed diagnosis of CRS prevents a correct management to be performed and is associated with uneffective investigations and improper treatments. Actually, when CRS symptoms, which are mainly nasal congestion and obstruction, nasal discharge, facial pain, cough, and halitosis, are correctly assessed, the clinical diagnosis of CRS may be achieved, and confirmation may be obtained by imaging criteria or nasal fibroendoscopy. In imaging, computed tomography (CT) is the first choice technique for the evaluation of CRS and is able to provide an anatomic road map when surgery is required. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the sinuses, orbits, and brain should be performed whenever extensive or multiple complications of sinusitis are suspected. Also for middle ear disorders, CT is the first choice because it detects opacification of the middle ear cavity and mastoid cells, presence of fluids or debris, and allows the ossicular chain and the cortical bone of the mastoid to be evaluated. Another important diagnostic issue is the need to look for disorders that are frequently associated with CRS, such as obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS), that has some recognized risk factors in adenotonsillar hypertrophy, craniofacial anomalies, obesity, and neuromuscular disorders. Other associated disorders requiring investigation are recurrent or persistent otitis media and difficult asthma.
Acoustic Features Indicate Arousal in Infant Giant Panda Vocalisations
Authors: Stoeger Angela S. , Baotic Anton , Li Desheng , Charlton Benjamin D.
Published: July 2012

Infant giant pandas are highly vocal during the first few weeks of life, producing vocalisations that are characterised by noisy, aperiodic segments. The aperiodic character of many animal vocalisations results from irregular vibratory regimes of the vocal folds, and one proposed function of this so‐called nonlinear phenomena (NLP) in animal vocalisations is to convey information about the caller's arousal state. This hypothesis was tested in the vocalisations of six hand‐reared giant panda cubs recorded during handling and feeding procedures that had been categorised into low‐ and high‐arousal contexts based on quantified motor activity. Ninety‐three per cent of the vocalisations contained NLP, including deterministic chaos and subharmonics. Vocalisations produced in the high‐arousal contexts, however, were characterised by an increase in chaos, as well as increased call duration and fundamental frequency (pitch). These results suggest that infant giant panda vocal signals have the potential to express different arousal states. Furthermore, because giant panda cubs are the smallest placental mammal offspring at birth compared with adult size, acoustically conveying arousal state to the mother might be crucial for infant survival under natural rearing conditions.
Soil‐Based Vegetation Technique to Quantify Effects of Rhizospheric Soil Osmotic and Matric Water Potentials on Crop Salt Tolerance
Authors: Schleiff U.
Published: July 2012

In saline soils, plant water supply is the most critical growth factor. To better understand water supply and growth of soil‐grown crops, research should focus on root water uptake in saline soils. Plant water supply and growth is complex. One has to consider, simultaneously, soil and plant parameters: (i) the soil physical parameters texture; pF curve; osmotic, matric and total water potential; salinity at the soil/root interface; and bulk soil salinity; and (ii) the plant parameters root mass and rooting density; root morphology; transpiration; and shoot growth. Technical devices for direct and simultaneous measurement of all parameters are not yet available. This study presents a vegetation technique (VeTe) that permits to determinate required data from continuous measurement of pot water losses and by indirect calculation. The VeTe was tested using young rape (Brassica napus, cv. Lingot) as the model plant, growing in a silty soil. Rape was selected for its efficient root system to explore soil determined growth factors. Basically, the VeTe requires two vegetation phases: a pre‐cultivation phase, and an experimental phase. The objective of the first phase is to grow young plants that are homogenous in their shoot and root development through well‐controlled water management. Varying rooting densities of soils are performed when plants are pre‐cultivated in different soil volumes. The experimental phase starts when plants are irrigated with water of different salt concentrations up to soil water contents of 30 vol.%. During the experiment, plants were grown under well‐controlled, climatic conditions, and pot water losses were measured bi‐hourly. Measurement of continuous water losses serves to calculate soil moisture contents, derive osmotic and matric heads and their impact on plant transpiration. The proposed technique provides a means for quantitatively studying the combined impacts of soil osmotic and matric stresses on water uptake by crops differing in their root morphologic traits at different rooting densities.
Fragrance of the rice grain achieved via artificial microRNA‐induced down‐regulation of OsBADH2
Authors: Chen Mingliang , Wei Xiangjin , Shao Gaoneng , Tang Shaoqing , Luo Ju , Hu Peisong
Published: July 2012

With 6 figures and 1 table

2‐acetyl‐1‐pyrroline (2AP) is the principal compound responsible for grain fragrance in rice. In fragrant rice cultivars, BADH2 (betaine‐aldehyde dehydrogenase 2) is inactivated. Here, we describe the effect of amiRNA (artificial microRNA) transgenesis targeted at BADH2 in rice. BADH2 (but not BADH1) expression was down‐regulated in transgenic lines where the amiRNA was driven by the maize ubiquitin promoter, and in these lines, grain 2AP content was also significantly elevated; meanwhile, 2AP could not be detected in the grain of wild‐type lines. The leaf proline content in the transgenics was increased through the simultaneous down‐regulation of PRODH and up‐regulation of P5CS. In transgenic lines where the same amiRNA was driven by the endosperm‐specific promoter GluC, no effect on BADH2 expression was detectable, and the content of grain 2AP did not differ from that present in wild‐type grains.
Optimism and other psychosocial influences on antenatal depression: A systematic review
Authors: Evans Emily C. , Bullock Linda F. C.
Published: July 2012

Antenatal depression is a debilitating experience for many women with significant personal and familial sequelae. Low‐income pregnant women living in rural settings are especially vulnerable because of isolation, decreased resources, and stressful living environments. This systematic review summarizes what is known about antenatal depression and synthesizes the evidence regarding the role psychosocial variables could play in the development of safe, effective, and culturally‐acceptable non‐pharmacological interventions. Searches of the CINAHL, MEDLINE, PSYCHINFO, and ERIC databases, as well as the Cochrane Library, were conducted in September 2010 to identify articles relevant to our topic of study. Psychosocial variables have a significant association with antenatal depression. Optimism has been shown to be inversely correlated with depression, and directly correlated with improved birth outcomes. Optimism is a potentially modifiable variable that could be used to design antenatal prevention and treatment programs. As depression continues to increase in prevalence, and treatment options for pregnant women remain limited, effective interventions must be developed that address the psychosocial variables examined in this review.
Out of sight, out of mind: an audit of inferior vena cava filter insertion and clinical follow up in an Australian institution and literature review
Authors: Tan X. L. , Tam C. , Mckellar R. , Nandurkar H. , Bazargan A.
Published: July 2012

Background

Inferior vena cava (IVC) filters are increasingly used to treat venous thromboembolism when there are contraindications or failure to respond to anticoagulant therapy. Retrievable filters were introduced to avoid long‐term complications and risks associated with permanent filters. However, failure to follow up patients appropriately can lead to low retrieval rates.

Aims

To examine the practice of our institution in using retrievable IVC filters and to provide a review of published literature.

Methods

Retrospective audit of medical records in a single medical institution.

Results

Forty‐one patients had retrievable IVC filters inserted. The median age of patients was 67. The majority (78%) of patients had filters inserted for presence of venous thromboembolism and contraindication to anticoagulation. Twenty‐five (61%) patients received no clinical follow up. Factors associated with loss to follow up include a lack of documentation for retrieval plan (P < 0.01), lack of haematology outpatient clinic review (P < 0.01) and age greater than 50 years (P < 0.01). Procedural success was achieved in nine of 11 attempted filter removals. Eighteen complications were noted among patients. IVC filter insertion failed to prevent recurrent pulmonary embolisms in three patients.

Conclusions

Majority of retrievable IVC filters will become lost to clinical follow up. Rates of attempted retrieval within 1 year of filter insertion are low. Loss to follow up is associated with older age, lack of documentation and lack of haematology clinic review post discharge. This study highlights the importance of a structured system to document clearly the review and retrieval plans for patients with IVC filters, at the time of initial insertion.
A study of venous thrombosis incidence in patients with acute hyperthyroidism
Authors: Kim D. D. W. , Chunilal S. , Young S. , Cutfield R.
Published: July 2012

Background

Hyperthyroidism is not a widely acknowledged risk factor for venous thrombosis (VT), such as deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and cerebral VT. Several case reports and case‐control studies support an association between VT and hyperthyroidism. Prothrombotic changes in the coagulation pathway in thyrotoxic subjects include reversible elevation of factor VIII and von Willebrand factor, and give biological plausibility to the association and possibly causation for VT.

Aim

We sought to determine the incidence of symptomatic VT in acute hyperthyroidism.

Methods

A retrospective review of consecutive outpatients presenting to the endocrinology clinic at our district hospitals from January 2006 to December 2008 with acute hyperthyroidism was carried out. All occurrences of objectively proven symptomatic VT (deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism and cerebral vein thrombosis) in the 6 months following the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism were sought.

Results

Four hundred and twenty‐eight patients were identified, of whom most were female (80%) and relatively young (mean age 47 years). Three patients (0.70%: 95% confidence interval 0.14–2.0%) were identified with a confirmed VT within 6 months of the diagnosis of hyperthyroidism.

Conclusions

Although the literature suggests moderate association between VT and acute hyperthyroidism, our data show that the absolute risk is low. Furthermore, our data suggest that hyperthyroidism is usually an additional risk factor but rarely the sole risk factor for VT.
Research involvement, support needs, and factors affecting research participation: A survey of Mental Health Consultation Liaison Nurses
Authors: McMaster Rose , Jammali‐Blasi Asmara , Andersson‐Noorgard Kurt , Cooper Kerrie , McInnes Elizabeth
Published: July 2012

The aims of this study were to identify research involvement and support needs of Mental Health Consultation Liaison Nurses (MHCLN) and the factors that affect participation in research. A self‐administered, standardized, anonymous questionnaire was distributed to a convenience sample of MHCLN. Frequencies and univariate analyses were calculated to examine relationships between: (i) involvement in a research study by highest qualification and job designation; and (ii) current enrolment in a higher degree study, research goals, and current research involvement by level of research skill. Open‐ended responses were collated and summarized. Of the 34 workshop attendees, 32 participated in the survey (response rate 94%). Seventy‐five percent of respondents agreed that involvement in research is an expectation of their role; 75% reported no current involvement in research. Over half (53%) of participants reported having research goals over the next 12 months. Those enrolled in postgraduate degrees were more likely to be currently involved in a research project (P = 0.013). Commonly reported barriers to research participation were competing commitments and lack of support, resources, confidence, and motivation. This study showed that access to research support and resources, including mentorship and funding, are required to engage these MHCLN in research and to build capacity.
Serotonin transporter inhibition attenuates l‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia without compromising l‐DOPA efficacy in hemi‐parkinsonian rats
Authors: Bishop Christopher , George Jessica A. , Buchta William , Goldenberg Adam A. , Mohamed Mohamed , Dickinson Sando O. , Eissa Satie , Eskow Jaunarajs Karen L.
Published: July 2012

Long‐term dopamine replacement therapy with l‐DOPA in Parkinson’s disease often leads to the development of abnormal involuntary movements known as l‐DOPA‐induced dyskinesia. Growing evidence suggests that, following dopamine cell loss, serotonin neurons acting as surrogates for dopaminergic processes take up l‐DOPA, convert it to dopamine and release it in an unregulated fashion that precipitates dyskinesia. Although most studies have focused on serotonin 5‐HT1 receptor stimulation as an antidyskinetic strategy, targeting the serotonin transporter modulation of dopamine activity has been overlooked. Therefore, in the current study, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were tested for their ability to reduce l‐DOPA‐ and apomorphine‐induced dyskinesia. In Experiments 1 and 2, hemi‐parkinsonian rats were primed with l‐DOPA until stable dyskinesia developed. Rats in Experiment 1 were administered the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors paroxetine, citalopram or fluoxetine, followed by l‐DOPA. Abnormal involuntary movements and forepaw adjusting steps were recorded to determine the effects of these compounds on dyskinesia and motor performance, respectively. Brains were collected on the final test day, after which striatal and raphe monoamines were examined via high‐performance liquid chromatography. In Experiment 2, dyskinesias were measured after selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors and apomorphine. Serotonin reuptake inhibitors dose‐dependently attenuated l‐DOPA‐ but not apomorphine‐induced dyskinesia, and preserved l‐DOPA efficacy. Neurochemically, serotonin transporter inhibition enhanced striatal and raphe serotonin levels and reduced its turnover, indicating a potential mechanism of action. The present results support targeting serotonin transporters to improve Parkinson’s disease treatment and provide further evidence for the role of the serotonin system in l‐DOPA’s effects.
Interaction of NMDA receptors and L‐type calcium channels during early odor preference learning in rats
Authors: Jerome David , Hou Qinlong , Yuan Qi
Published: July 2012

Early odor preference learning in rats provides a simple model for studying learning and memory. Learning results in an enhanced output from mitral cells, which carry odor information from the olfactory bulb to the olfactory cortex. Mitral cell NMDA receptors (NMDARs) are critically involved in plasticity at the olfactory nerve to mitral cell synapse during odor learning. Here we provide evidence that L‐type calcium channels (LTCCs) provide an additional and necessary source of calcium for learning induction. LTCCs are thought to act downstream of NMDARs to bridge synaptic activation and the transcription of the plasticity‐related proteins necessary for 24‐h learning and memory. Using immunohistochemistry, we have demonstrated that LTCCs are present in the mitral cell and are primarily located on mitral cell proximal dendrites in neonate rats. Behavioral experiments demonstrate that inhibiting the function of LTCCs via intrabulbar infusion of nimidopine successfully blocks learning induced by pairing isoproterenol infusion with odor, while activation of LTCCs via an intrabulbar infusion of BayK‐8644 rescues isoproterenol‐induced learning from a D‐APV block. Interestingly, the infusion of BayK‐8644 paired with odor is by itself not sufficient to induce learning. Synaptoneurosome Western blot and immunohistochemistry measurement of synapsin I phosphorylation following BayK‐8644 infusion suggest LTCCs are involved in synaptic release. Finally, odor preference can be induced by gabazine disinhibition of mitral cells, and NMDAR opening is sufficient for the gabazine‐induced learning. These results provide the first evidence that NMDARs and LTCCs interact to permit calcium‐dependent mitral cell plasticity during early odor preference learning.
Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis following treatment with exenatide
Authors: Nandakoban H. , Furlong T. J. , Flack J. R.
Published: July 2012

Diabet. Med. 30, 123–125 (2013)

Background  Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis, a cause of acute kidney injury, is seen occasionally following treatment with medications such as antibiotics and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. To date, the development of biopsy‐proven acute tubulointerstitial nephritis after treatment with exenatide has not been reported.

Case report  A 58‐year‐old man was prescribed exenatide for poorly controlled Type 2 diabetes mellitus. He subsequently developed deterioration in kidney function, with the estimated glomerular filtration rate declining from 59 to 39 ml min−1 1.73 m−2 over 2 months. Despite cessation of exenatide, there was continued deterioration in estimated glomerular filtration rate to 16 ml min−1 1.73 m−2. He underwent renal biopsy and the sections showed active diffuse tubulointerstitial nephritis with infiltration of eosinophils. He was treated with prednisolone over several months with incomplete recovery in kidney function.

Conclusion  Acute tubulointerstitial nephritis should be suspected if there is deterioration in kidney function in a patient treated with exenatide in the absence of other causes of acute kidney injury such as dehydration or hypotension.
THE EFFECTS OF PUBLICATION LAGS ON LIFE‐CYCLE RESEARCH PRODUCTIVITY IN ECONOMICS
Authors: CONLEY JOHN P. , CRUCINI MARIO J. , DRISKILL ROBERT A. , ÖNDER ALI SINA
Published: July 2012

We investigate how increases in publication delays have affected the life cycle of publications of recent Ph.D. graduates in economics. We construct a panel dataset of 14,271 individuals who were awarded Ph.D.s between 1986 and 2000 in U.S. and Canadian economics departments. For this population of scholars, we amass complete records of publications in peer‐reviewed journals listed in the JEL (a total of 368,672 observations). We find evidence of significantly diminished productivity in recent relative to earlier cohorts when productivity of an individual is measured by the number of AER‐equivalent publications. Diminished productivity is less evident when the number of AER‐equivalent pages is used instead. Our findings are consistent with earlier empirical findings of increasing editorial delays, decreasing acceptance rates at journals, and a trend toward longer manuscripts. This decline in productivity is evident in both graduates of top 30 and non‐top 30 ranked economics departments and may have important implications for what should constitute a tenurable record. We also find that the research rankings of top economics departments are a surprisingly poor predictor of the subsequent research rankings of their Ph.D.s graduates. (JEL A11, J24, J29, J44)
Understanding Voters' Preferences: How the Electorate's Complexity Affects Prediction Accuracy and Wishful Thinking among Politicians with Respect to Election Outcomes
Authors: Jottier Dimi , Ashworth John , Heyndels Bruno
Published: July 2012

Models of political decision making often assume that politicians are fully informed on voters' preferences. Still, while they may be privileged witnesses of the democratic process, real‐world politicians typically act upon imperfect information. Using a large scale survey among (498) Belgian local politicians we analyse whether and to what extent politicians are informed on public opinion. More precisely, we analyse their predictions of the electoral result of their own party in an upcoming election. The focus is on the impact of the electorate's complexity on this prediction accuracy. Complexity is defined in terms of the size and heterogeneity of the electorate. Complexity is found to affect both cognitive (prediction accuracy becomes smaller) and affective (predictions are biased through wishful thinking) processes underlying the politician's prediction. The empirical results show that smaller electorates have better informed politicians (with smaller prediction errors and less subject to wishful thinking), offering a case for decentralized government. Heterogeneity has a bearing on prediction accuracy and wishful thinking. Interestingly, the effects differ between politicians in power and those in opposition.
Democracy, Economic Freedom and Growth in Transition Economies
Authors: Peev Evgeni , Mueller Dennis C.
Published: July 2012

This article examines the interrelationships between democracy, economic freedoms, and economic growth. We study 24 post‐communist economies over the period 1990–2007, and find that strong democratic institutions are associated with greater economic freedoms and larger public sectors and public deficits. Stronger economic freedoms lead to more rapid growth, but large public sectors and public deficits have adverse effects on growth. We identify trade freedom, monetary freedom and freedom from corruption as the most important indicators of economic freedom for growth in transition countries over the period 1994–2007. Some of the factors associated with faster growth prior to the crisis were associated with greater declines in growth during the first years of the financial crisis (2008–2009).
A Note on Political Contestability and the Future of theEuropeanUnion
Authors: Weder Rolf , Grubel Herbert G.
Published: July 2012

In this paper, we argue that, first, the contestable‐markets hypothesis increases our understanding of why and how public referenda and initiatives are beneficial for the political decision‐making process and, second, that these direct‐democratic instruments could solve some of the current and pending institutional problems of theEuropean Union (EU) and reshape its process of political integration. The Lisbon Treaty includes some attempts in this direction which, however, are half‐hearted and thus hardly increase the democratic control of theEUby its member states and their citizens.