bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Variations in Amazon forest productivity correlated with foliar nutrients and modelled rates of photosynthetic carbon supply
Authors: Mercado Lina M. , Patiño Sandra , Domingues Tomas F. , Fyllas Nikolaos M. , Weedon Graham P. , Sitch Stephen , Quesada Carlos Alberto , Phillips Oliver L. , Aragão Luiz E. O. C. , Malhi Yadvinder , Dolman A. J. , Restrepo-Coupe Natalia , Saleska Scott R. , Baker Timothy R. , Almeida Samuel , Higuchi Niro , Lloyd Jon
Published: October 2011

The rate of above-ground woody biomass production,
W
P
, in some western Amazon forests exceeds those in the east by a factor of 2 or more. Underlying causes may include climate, soil nutrient limitations and species composition. In this modelling paper, we explore the implications of allowing key nutrients such as N and P to constrain the photosynthesis of Amazon forests, and also we examine the relationship between modelled rates of photosynthesis and the observed gradients in
W
P
. We use a model with current understanding of the underpinning biochemical processes as affected by nutrient availability to assess: (i) the degree to which observed spatial variations in foliar [N] and [P] across Amazonia affect stand-level photosynthesis; and (ii) how these variations in forest photosynthetic carbon acquisition relate to the observed geographical patterns of stem growth across the Amazon Basin. We find nutrient availability to exert a strong effect on photosynthetic carbon gain across the Basin and to be a likely important contributor to the observed gradient in
W
P
. Phosphorus emerges as more important than nitrogen in accounting for the observed variations in productivity. Implications of these findings are discussed in the context of future tropical forests under a changing climate.
A large-scale forest fragmentation experiment: the Stability of Altered Forest Ecosystems Project
Authors: Ewers Robert M. , Didham Raphael K. , Fahrig Lenore , Ferraz Gonçalo , Hector Andy , Holt Robert D. , Kapos Valerie , Reynolds Glen , Sinun Waidi , Snaddon Jake L. , Turner Edgar C.
Published: October 2011

Opportunities to conduct large-scale field experiments are rare, but provide a unique opportunity to reveal the complex processes that operate within natural ecosystems. Here, we review the design of existing, large-scale forest fragmentation experiments. Based on this review, we develop a design for the Stability of Altered Forest Ecosystems (SAFE) Project, a new forest fragmentation experiment to be located in the lowland tropical forests of Borneo (Sabah, Malaysia). The SAFE Project represents an advance on existing experiments in that it: (i) allows discrimination of the effects of landscape-level forest cover from patch-level processes; (ii) is designed to facilitate the unification of a wide range of data types on ecological patterns and processes that operate over a wide range of spatial scales; (iii) has greater replication than existing experiments; (iv) incorporates an experimental manipulation of riparian corridors; and (v) embeds the experimentally fragmented landscape within a wider gradient of land-use intensity than do existing projects. The SAFE Project represents an opportunity for ecologists across disciplines to participate in a large initiative designed to generate a broad understanding of the ecological impacts of tropical forest modification.
Effects of land use on surface–atmosphere exchanges of trace gases and energy in Borneo: comparing fluxes over oil palm plantations and a rainforest
Authors: Fowler David , Nemitz Eiko , Misztal Pawel , Di Marco Chiara , Skiba Ute , Ryder James , Helfter Carole , Cape J. Neil , Owen Sue , Dorsey James , Gallagher Martin W. , Coyle Mhairi , Phillips Gavin , Davison Brian , Langford Ben , MacKenzie Rob , Muller Jennifer , Siong Jambery , Dari-Salisburgo Cesare , Di Carlo Piero , Aruffo Eleonora , Giammaria Franco , Pyle John A. , Hewitt C. Nicholas
Published: October 2011

This paper reports measurements of land–atmosphere fluxes of sensible and latent heat, momentum, CO
2
, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), NO, NO
2
, N
2
O and O
3
over a 30 m high rainforest canopy and a 12 m high oil palm plantation in the same region of Sabah in Borneo between April and July 2008. The daytime maximum CO
2
flux to the two canopies differs by approximately a factor of 2, 1200 mg C m
−2
h
−1
for the oil palm and 700 mg C m
−2
h
−1
for the rainforest, with the oil palm plantation showing a substantially greater quantum efficiency. Total VOC emissions are also larger over the oil palm than over the rainforest by a factor of 3. Emissions of isoprene from the oil palm canopy represented 80 per cent of the VOC emissions and exceeded those over the rainforest in similar light and temperature conditions by on average a factor of 5. Substantial emissions of estragole (1-allyl-4-methoxybenzene) from the oil palm plantation were detected and no trace of this VOC was detected in or above the rainforest. Deposition velocities for O
3
to the rainforest were a factor of 2 larger than over oil palm. Emissions of nitrous oxide were larger from the soils of the oil palm plantation than from the soils of the rainforest by approximately 25 per cent. It is clear from the measurements that the large change in the species composition generated by replacing rainforest with oil palm leads to profound changes in the net exchange of most of the trace gases measured, and thus on the chemical composition of the boundary layer over these surfaces.
Experimental Fracture Model versus Osteotomy Model in Metacarpal Bone Plate Fixation
Authors: Ochman S. , Vordemvenne T. , Paletta J. , Raschke M. J. , Meffert R. H. , Doht S.
Published: October 2011

Introduction. Osteotomy or fracture models can be used to evaluate mechanical properties of fixation techniques of the hand skeletonin vitro. Although many studies make use of osteotomy models, fracture models simulate the clinical situation more realistically. This study investigates monocortical and bicortical plate fixation on metacarpal bones considering both aforementioned models to decide which method is best suited to test fixation techniques.Methods. Porcine metacarpal bones () were randomized into 4 groups. In groups I and II bones were fractured with a modified 3-point bending test. The intact bones represented a further control group to which the other groups after fixation were compared. In groups III and IV a standard osteotomy was carried out. Bones were fixated with plates monocortically (group I, III) and bicortically (group II, IV) and tested for failure.Results. Bones fractured at a mean maximum load of 482.8 N  104.8 N with a relative standard deviation (RSD) of 21.7%, mean stiffness was 122.3  35 N/mm. In the fracture model, there was a significant difference () for maximum load of monocortically and bicortically fixed bones in contrast to the osteotomy model ().Discussion. In the fracture model, because one can use the same bone for both measurements in the intact state and the bone-plate construct states, the impact of inter-individual differences is reduced. In contrast to the osteotomy model there are differences between monocortical and bicortical fixations in the fracture model. Thus simulation of thein vivosituation is better and seems to be suitable for the evaluation of mechanical properties of fixation techniques on metacarpals.
An Overview of DNA Repair in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis
Authors: Coppedè Fabio
Published: October 2011

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as motor neuron disease (MND), is an adult onset neurodegenerative disorder characterised by the degeneration of cortical and spinal cord motor neurons, resulting in progressive muscular weakness and death. Increasing evidence supports mitochondrial dysfunction and oxidative DNA damage in ALS motor neurons. Several DNA repair enzymes are activated following DNA damage to restore genome integrity, and impairments in DNA repair capabilities could contribute to motor neuron degeneration. After a brief description of the evidence of DNA damage in ALS, this paper focuses on the available data on DNA repair activity in ALS neuronal tissue and disease animal models. Moreover, biochemical and genetic data on DNA repair in ALS are discussed in light of similar findings in other neurodegenerative diseases.
Self-Organized Crystallization Patterns from Evaporating Droplets of Common Wheat Grain Leakages as a Potential Tool for Quality Analysis
Authors: Kokornaczyk Maria Olga , Dinelli Giovanni , Marotti Ilaria , Benedettelli Stefano , Nani Daniele , Betti Lucietta
Published: October 2011

We studied the evaporation-induced pattern formation in droplets of common wheat kernel leakages prepared out of ancient and modern wheat cultivars as a possible tool for wheat quality analysis. The experiments showed that the substances which passed into the water during the soaking of the kernels created crystalline structures with different degrees of complexity while the droplets were evaporating. The forms ranged from spots and simple structures with single ramifications, through dendrites, up to highly organized hexagonal shapes and fractal-like structures. The patterns were observed and photographed using dark field microscopy in small magnifications. The evaluation of the patterns was performed both visually and by means of the fractal dimension analysis. From the results, it can be inferred that the wheat cultivars differed in their pattern-forming capacities. Two of the analyzed wheat cultivars showed poor pattern formation, whereas another two created well-formed and complex patterns. Additionally, the wheat cultivars were analyzed for their vigor by means of the germination test and measurement of the electrical conductivity of the grain leakages. The results showed that the more vigorous cultivars also created more complex patterns, whereas the weaker cultivars created predominantly poor forms. This observation suggests a correlation between the wheat seed quality and droplet evaporation patterns.
Air elimination capability in rapid infusion systems
Authors: Zoremba N. , Gruenewald C. , Zoremba M. , Rossaint R. , Schaelte G.
Published: October 2011

Pressure infusion devices are used in clinical practice to apply large volumes of fluid over a short period of time. Although air infusion is a major complication, they have limited capability to detect and remove air during pressure infusion. In this investigation, we tested the air elimination capabilities of the Fluido® (The Surgical Company), Level 1® (Level 1 Technologies Inc.) and Ranger® (Augustine Medical GmbH) pressure infusion devices. Measurements were undertaken with a crystalloid solution during an infusion flow of 100, 200, 400 and 800 ml.min−1. Four different volumes of air (25, 50, 100 and 200 ml) were injected as boluses in one experimental setting, or infused continuously over the time needed to perfuse 2 l saline in the other setting. The perfusion fluid was collected in an airtight infusion bag and the amount of air obtained in the bag was measured. The delivered air volume was negligible and would not cause any significant air embolism in all experiments. In our experimental setting, we found, during high flow, an increased amount of uneliminated air in all used devices compared with lower perfusion flows. All tested devices had a good air elimination capability. The use of ultrasonic air detection coupled with an automatic shutoff is a significant safety improvement and can reliably prevent accidental air embolism at rapid flows.

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In vitro suppression of drug‐induced methaemoglobin formation by Intralipid® in whole human blood: observations relevant to the ‘lipid sink theory’*
Authors: Samuels T. L. , Willers J. W. , Uncles D. R. , Monteiro R. , Halloran C. , Dai H.
Published: October 2011

To provide further evidence for the lipid sink theory, we have developed an in vitro model to assess the effect of Intralipid® 20% on methaemoglobin formation by drugs of varying lipid solubility. Progressively increasing Intralipid concentrations from 4 to 24 mg.ml−1 suppressed methaemoglobin formation by the lipid soluble drug glyceryl trinitrate in a dose‐dependent manner (p < 0.001). Both dose and timing of administration of Intralipid to blood previously incubated with glyceryl trinitrate for 10 and 40 min resulted in significant suppression of methaemoglobin formation (p < 0.0001 and p < 0.05, respectively). Mathematical modelling demonstrated that the entire process of methaemoglobin formation by glyceryl trinitrate was slowed down in the presence of Intralipid. Intralipid did not significantly suppress methaemoglobin formation induced by 2‐amino‐5‐hydroxytoluene (partially lipid soluble) or sodium nitrite (lipid insoluble; both p > 0.5). This work may assist determination of the suitability of drugs taken in overdose for which Intralipid might be deployed.
Child‐centric or family focused? A study of child welfare workers' perceptions of ethnic minority children in England and Norway
Authors: Kriẑ Katrin , Skivenes Marit
Published: October 2011

This paper analyses child welfare workers' perceptions of ethnic minority children in England and Norway based on in‐depth interviews with 52 child welfare workers in 2008. We employ a child‐centric theoretical framework to explore up to what extent workers focus on minority children in their perceptions. We found that about half of our study participants (n= 27) did so, and many more in Norway than England. They perceived many risks and problems for minority children related to their ethnicity, including children's biculturalism and language skills, parenting methods, unequal treatment and racism, lack of social inclusion, and problems in school. Norwegian workers displayed a broad needs perception and embraced a change‐orientated perspective and held parents accountable for their children's educational success and social inclusion. English workers had a narrower approach, focusing on protecting children. We discuss how the cross‐country differences may be related to different welfare state and child welfare paradigms.
Better together? Learning lessons for group decision‐making practice from a study of secure accommodation in Scotland
Authors: Roesch‐Marsh Autumn
Published: October 2011

This paper draws on the findings of a research study that examined the factors that influence local decision‐making in cases where a child or young person is being considered by residential workers, social workers and senior managers for placement in a secure unit. After outlining the research problem and case study approach taken, the paper focuses on explicating the findings of the study that relate to the impact of group membership, goals, roles and norms on group performance in such cases. The paper illustrates how attending to these four areas, and the way in which power relations impact on them, may help those developing and managing groups to improve decision‐making practice.
Implementation of a joint protocol for the management of thyroid nodules with a cytological diagnosis of follicular lesion of undetermined significance: experience in one hospital
Authors: Chaves S. , Fernández‐Aceñero M. J. , Cazorla A. , Cedeño M. , Fortes J. , Gavín E. , Mullor R.
Published: October 2011

Background:  Follicular lesion of undetermined significance (FLUS) was introduced for fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology in which there is insufficient evidence to classify the lesion as follicular neoplasm/suspicious of follicular neoplasm or suspicious for malignancy. The recommended management was repeat FNA and correlation with clinical and radiological data. In 2009 we started a joint clinicopathological protocol to improve management of FLUS, recommending follow‐up with repeat FNA at 6 months. The aim of this study was to report on the audit of results of this protocol.

Methods:  We reviewed the medical records of the patients with FLUS at a single hospital. Between 2007 and 2010 we found 135 cases with this diagnosis (3.6%). We only had long enough follow‐up information for the 95 patients that were included in the present study.

Results:  FLUS was diagnosed in 74 FNAs before protocol implementation (3.2%) and 61 FNAs after (4.2%), with follow‐up of 46 and 49 patients, respectively. Before 2009, 38/46 (82.6%) patients had surgical excisions, compared with 32/49 (65.3%): a significant reduction of 17% in the number requiring surgery (P = 0.05). We have also shown a reduction in the median time to surgery (11.9 versus 2.9 months). Despite the joint protocol, the FNA was only repeated in two patients. The histological diagnoses were similar in the two periods of time: 31.6% and 31.3% follicular adenomas; 13.1% and 3.1% (P = 0.2) papillary carcinoma (follicular variant).

Conclusions:  Implementation of a joint protocol reduced the number of surgical operations in patients with FLUS but in most cases FNA was not repeated as recommended. Excision was justified in one‐third of operated patients. Less than 15% of lesions were malignant, which is in accordance with previous reports in the literature.
Pharmacokinetic properties of two different recombinant activated factor VII formulations
Authors: MORFINI M. , JIMÉNEZ‐YUSTE V. , EICHLER H. , FISCHER R. , KIRCHMAIER C. M. , SCHARLING B. , BJERRE J.
Published: October 2011

Summary.  Recombinant factor VIIa is indicated for treatment of bleeding episodes in patients with haemophilia A or B with inhibitors; in FVII deficiency and in Glanzmann’s thrombasthenia. The aim of the study reported here was to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles between two formulations of rFVIIa that are produced in two different cell lines and media: Chinese hamster ovary cells cultured in a serum‐free medium (CHO‐rFVIIa) and baby hamster kidney cells cultured in a non‐human serum‐based medium (BHK‐rFVIIa). Two clinical trials were performed; one in healthy subjects and the other in patients with congenital haemophilia A or B, with or without inhibitors. Subjects were recruited into a two‐way crossover trial and were randomized to receive a dose of CHO‐rFVIIa and BHK‐rFVIIa. Healthy subjects received one dose of 90 μg CHO‐rFVIIa kg−1 bodyweight (bw) in the newly developed room‐temperature stable rFVIIa formulation and one dose of 90 μg BHK‐rFVIIa kg−1 bw, in the original rFVIIa formulation. Patients with haemophilia received one dose of 270 μg CHO‐rFVIIa kg−1 and one dose of 270 μg BHK‐rFVIIa kg−1, both in the room‐temperature stable formulation. The trials showed higher FVII activity levels [higher area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC)] following administration of CHO‐rFVIIa than after BHK‐rFVIIa. Therefore, bioequivalence could not be established. The difference in FVII activity levels is believed to be a result of different glycosylation patterns between the two products. Neither the use of CHO‐rFVIIa nor the use of one single dose of 270 μg kg−1 of the newly developed room‐temperature stable rFVIIa raised any safety concerns.
Interleukin‐23: as a drug target for autoimmune inflammatory diseases
Authors: Tang Chunlei , Chen Shu , Qian Hai , Huang Wenlong
Published: October 2011

Interleukin‐23 (IL‐23) is a member of the IL‐12 family of cytokines with pro‐inflammatory properties. Its ability to potently enhance the expansion of T helper type 17 (Th17) cells indicates the responsibility for many of the inflammatory autoimmune responses. Emerging data demonstrate that IL‐23 is a key participant in central regulation of the cellular mechanisms involved in inflammation. Both IL‐23 and IL‐17 form a new axis through Th17 cells, which has evolved in response to human diseases associated with immunoactivation and immunopathogeny, including bacterial or viral infections and chronic inflammation. Targeting of IL‐23 or the IL‐23 receptor or IL‐23 axis is a potential therapeutic approach for autoimmune diseases including psoriasis, inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and multiple sclerosis. The current review focuses on the immunobiology of IL‐23 and summarizes the most recent findings on the role of IL‐23 in the pre‐clinical and ongoing clinical studies.
Do multiple concurrent infections in African children cause irreversible immunological damage?
Authors: Glennie Sarah J. , Nyirenda Moffat , Williams Neil A. , Heyderman Robert S.
Published: October 2011

Much of the developing world, particularly sub‐Saharan Africa, has high levels of morbidity and mortality associated with infectious diseases. The greatest risk of invasive disease is in the young, the malnourished and HIV‐infected individuals. In many regions in Africa these vulnerable groups and the wider general population are under constant immune pressure from a range of environmental factors, under‐nutrition and multiple concurrent infections from birth through to adulthood. Intermittent microbial exposure during childhood is required for the generation of naturally acquired immunity capable of protection against a range of infectious diseases in adult life. However, in the context of a resource‐poor setting, the heavy burden of malarial, diarrhoeal and respiratory infections in childhood may subvert or suppress immune responses rather than protect, resulting in sub‐optimal immunity. This review will explore how poor maternal health, HIV exposure, socio‐economic and seasonal factors conspire to weaken childhood immune defences to disease and discuss the hypothesis that recurrent infections may drive immune dysregulation, leading to relative immune senescence and premature immunological aging.
Changes in young children’s OHRQoL after dental treatment under general anaesthesia
Authors: GAYNOR WANDA N. , THOMSON W. MURRAY
Published: October 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2012; 22: 258–264

Objective.  To use the Parental‐Caregivers Perceptions Questionnaire (P‐CPQ) and Family Impact Scale (FIS) to determine whether dental treatment of young Auckland children under general anaesthesia (GA) improved oral‐health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) for them and their families.

Design.  A pretest/post‐test design, with a consecutive clinical sample of parents/caregivers of children (10 years or younger) treated under GA. More than half of the children were Māori or Pacific Islanders.

Results.  Of the 157 children in the baseline sample, 144 (91.7%) were followed up. The overall P‐CPQ score showed a large decrease following treatment, along with an increase in the number scoring 0 (no impact). Similar relative changes were observed in the oral symptoms and emotional well‐being subscales, whereas the other two subscales showed moderate decreases. All post‐treatment FIS scores were lower than pre‐treatment ones; all showed moderate effect sizes. The greatest relative changes were seen in the parental/family activity and parental emotions subscales.

Conclusions.  The dental treatment of young children under GA is associated with considerable improvement in their OHRQoL. The P‐CPQ and the FIS are valid and responsive to treatment‐associated changes in young children with early childhood caries (ECC).
Decision‐making processes used by nurses during intravenous drug preparation and administration
Authors: Dougherty Lisa , Sque Magi , Crouch Rob
Published: October 2011

dougherty l., sque m. & crouch r. (2012) Decision‐making processes used by nurses during intravenous drug preparation and administration. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(6), 1302–1311.

Aim.  The aim of this study was to explore the decision‐making processes that nurses use during intravenous drug administration and how this influences risk taking and errors.

Background.  Intravenous drug errors have been estimated to be a third of all drug errors. Previous drug error research has focused on observation of nurses and errors they make but has not attempted to understand the decision‐making processes used during the preparation and administration of intravenous drugs.

Method.  A three‐phased ethnographic study was carried out in a specialist cancer hospital in 2007 using focus groups, observation and interviews. This article is concerned with the observation and interview phase. Observation took place on two wards, each over a week. Twenty nurses were observed preparing and administering intravenous drugs; then interviewed about their procedure. Data analysis was carried out using a five stage approach.

Findings.  Major themes identified include: interruptions; identification and knowing the patient; routinized behaviour, prevention of errors. These represent the findings of the observation and interviews with the nurses. One key finding was the lack of checking of patient identity prior to IV drug administration, which appeared to be based on nurses feeling they knew the patient well enough, although this was in contrast to how they checked even familiar drugs. This article will focus on identification and knowing the patient.

Conclusion.  Implications for practice included: exploring new and effective methods of education based on behavioural theories; involving staff in updating policies and procedures; formal assessment of staff during intravenous preparation and administration.
Do educational interventions improve cancer patients’ quality of life and reduce pain intensity? Quantitative systematic review
Authors: Ling Cheuk‐chi , Lui Liza Y.Y. , So Winnie K.W.
Published: October 2011

ling c.c., lui l.y.y. & so w.k.w. (2012) Do educational interventions improve cancer patients’ quality of life and reduce pain intensity? Quantitative systematic review. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(3), 511–520.

Aims.  This paper reports a quantitative systematic review of the effects of educational interventions on quality of life, pain intensity and pain interference in cancer patients.

Background.  Cancer pain has a marked negative impact on quality of life, and this has become an important issue in discussions of treatment options. Patient education seems to be effective in pain management, but no review has been published with quality of life as an outcome measure.

Data sources.  Relevant publications from 2000 to 2010 were identified in six databases (Medline, CIHAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, PsycINFO and DARE) and by means of hand‐searches. All randomized controlled trial studies of pain‐education programmes for cancer patients were considered, and a quantitative review of effectiveness carried out.

Review methods.  Studies were critically appraised by three independent reviewers, and the Jadad score was used to assess the quality of those included.

Results.  Four studies meeting the inclusion criteria were used, after methodological quality assessment. Pain intensity and pain interference were significantly reduced after education, but statistical change in quality of life was not found in any of the studies.

Conclusions.  Pain and quality of life are complex matters, and quality of life might not be a sensitive indicator of the effectiveness of pain education. To improve quality of life and reduce the severity of pain in cancer patients, individualized care, recognition of variations in patient experience, and a multi‐disciplinary approach are required. Further research is recommended into patients’ preferences of any educational intervention, and into the quality of existing education programmes and the expertise of the healthcare professionals concerned.
Email interviewing: generating data with a vulnerable population
Authors: Cook Catherine
Published: October 2011

cook c. (2012) Email interviewing: generating data with a vulnerable population. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(6), 1330–1339.

Aims.  This paper describes online recruitment and the email interviewing data collection method with women diagnosed with a viral sexually transmitted infection. The paper highlights the advantages of the method to researchers and participants when conducting research where face‐to‐face participation may difficult.

Background.  Online recruitment and in‐depth email interviewing have been used by only a small number of nurses internationally. The method enables inclusion of people who might otherwise be excluded from research, for reasons such as geographical distance, incompatible time frames, clinicians’‘gate‐keeping’ and participants’ desire for anonymity for physical or emotional reasons.

Methods.  In‐depth email interviews were conducted with 26 women in New Zealand, United States of America, Canada and England who had a diagnosis of either human papilloma virus or genital herpes simplex virus. Data were collected during 2007–2008 and analysed using a poststructuralist, feminist thematic analysis.

Results.  Participant retention was high. Women emphasized satisfaction with the process. Asynchronous interviews allowed for additional reflexivity in the researcher’s responses and rich data generation.

Conclusion.  This method has the potential to enable nurses to include vulnerable and relatively inaccessible participants in ‘sensitive’ research. In‐depth email interviews may generate rich data through a process participants deem to be of personal value.
The next of kin of older people undergoing haemodialysis: a discursive perspective on perceptions of participation
Authors: Aasen Elin Margrethe , Kvangarsnes Marit , Wold Bente , Heggen Kåre
Published: October 2011

aasen e.m., kvangarsnes m., wold b. & heggen k. (2011) The next of kin of older people undergoing haemodialysis: a discursive perspective on perceptions of participation. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(6), 1716–1725.

Aim.  This paper is a report of a study conducted to explore how the family members of older people who will undergo haemodialysis treatment for the rest of their lives perceive participation.

Background.  The rights of families to participate in treatment and health care are supported by international law, and by national law in Norway since 1999.

Method.  This study, which employed an explorative qualitative approach, was carried out in Norway in 2008. Data were derived from transcribed interviews with seven family members underwent critical discourse analysis.

Findings.  Three discourse practices about the next of kin perception of participation were found: (1) to care and take control, (2) to struggle for involvement, and (3) to be forgotten and powerless. The next of kin said that they had no dialogue with the healthcare team, and some fought to be included in the decision‐making process.

Conclusion.  The dominant part of the discourse as expressed by the next of kin seems to be a paternalistic ideology. Thus, finding ways to enable the next of kin to participate in the decision‐making process seems to be a major challenge for the healthcare team in the dialysis units.
Rotifer population spread in relation to food, density and predation risk in an experimental system
Authors: Kuefler Daniel , Avgar Tal , Fryxell John M.
Published: October 2011

1. Despite the popular use of diffusion models to predict the spatial spread of populations over time, we currently know little about how diffusion rates change with the state of the environment or the internal condition of individuals. To address this gap in our understanding, we measured rates of spread for many populations of the rotifer Brachionus calyciflorus in a suite of well‐replicated experiments.

2. In one set of experiments, we manipulated food availability and population density along a continuous range of densities. In a second set, we manipulated the internal state of entire populations via food deprivation and exposure to predator kairomones.

3. Across replicate populations, diffusion rates were positively correlated with conspecific density. Diffusion rates were negatively correlated with food availability, especially when conspecific density was high. Diffusion rates of food‐deprived populations or those exposed to predation risk were lower than controls.

4. Our results provide direct experimental evidence that rates of population spread are conditional on population density, food availability, body condition and predation risk.
Evaluation of anti‐emetic use in chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting in a third‐world country (Lebanon)
Authors: Zeitoun Abeer A. , Nassif Jeanette G.
Published: October 2011

Rationale  In Lebanon, the appropriateness of anti‐emetic use is questionable in large measure because of the absence of published multicentre trials.

Aim and objectives  To evaluate the extent of appropriateness of anti‐emetic use in patients on chemotherapy among several Lebanese hospitals. Appropriateness of chemotherapy‐induced nausea and vomiting (CINV) prophylaxis was determined as per National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines.

Methods  A multicentre, cross‐sectional study was conducted over a 3‐month period. Data were collected from medical charts of cancer patients. The main outcome measure was to evaluate the appropriateness of prophylactic use of anti‐emetics in CINV in terms of selected drug regimen, dosage and route of administration, and to investigate the role of several pre‐specified variables (including hospital type and size, type of insurance coverage and patient‐related factors) in influencing the appropriateness of anti‐emetic practice.

Results  A total of 493 patients' forms were analysed. The median age was 58.8 ± 13.9 years, 290 (58.8%) patients were female. Around 211 (42.8%) patients received inappropriate anti‐emetic regimen, and only 17 (6%) patients of those receiving appropriate regimen received the appropriate dose, and just 55 (19.5%) patients were treated for the appropriate duration. Factors that may affect the relative effectiveness of treatment were identified.

Conclusion  This study reflected substantial flaws in CINV prophylaxis practice in Lebanon which should alert health care professionals of the adverse consequences resulting from non‐adherence to guidelines. Our study also highlighted areas for improvement and suggested recommendations in order to minimize patient risk and optimize safe and effective CINV management.
Two AP2 family genes,SUPERNUMERARY BRACT(SNB) andOsINDETERMINATE SPIKELET 1(OsIDS1), synergistically control inflorescence architecture and floral meristem establishment in rice
Authors: Lee Dong‐Yeon , An Gynheung
Published: October 2011

Meristem identity is crucial in determining the inflorescence architecture of grass species. We previously reported thatSUPERNUMERARY BRACT(SNB) regulates the transition of spikelet meristems into floral meristems in rice (Oryza sativa). Here we demonstrated thatSNBandOryza sativa INDETERMINATE SPIKELET 1(OsIDS1) together play important roles in inflorescence architecture and the establishment of floral meristems. Insnb osids1double mutants, the numbers of branches and spikelets within a panicle are significantly decreased, and the transition to a floral meristem is further delayed compared with thesnbsingle mutant. Expression analyses showed thatSNBandOsIDS1are required for spatio‐temporal expression of B‐ and E‐function floral organ identity genes in the lodicules. In addition, the AP2 family genes are important for determining the degree of ramification in branch meristems, regulating the spatio‐temporal expression of spikelet meristem genes, such asFRIZZY PANICLE(FZP). Furthermore, overexpression ofmicroRNA172(miR172) causes reductions inSNBandOsIDS1transcript levels, and phenotypes of the transgenic plants are more severe than forsnb osids1. This indicates that additional gene(s) participate in the development of branch and floral meristems. Preferential expression of maturemiR172s in the area around the spikelet meristems implies that depletion of the AP2 family genes in those meristems viamiR172is an important step in controlling inflorescence branching and the formation of floral organs.
Pregnancy following liver transplantation during childhood and adolescence
Authors: Spearman C. W. N. , Goddard E. , McCulloch M. I. , Hairwadzi H. N. , Sonderup M. W. , Kahn D. , Millar A. J. W.
Published: October 2011

Spearman CWN, Goddard E, McCulloch MI, Hairwadzi HN, Sonderup MW, Kahn D, Millar AJW. Pregnancy following liver transplantation during childhood and adolescence. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 712–717. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  More than 80% of pediatric transplant recipients will survive to reach adulthood, and many will consider having children. We report on outcomes and management of five pregnancies in four women undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation during childhood or adolescence and followed up at our Transplant Center. A retrospective clinical folder audit was performed. Mean age at transplantation was 13.3 ± 3.4 yr (range, 10–18 yr). Mean interval between transplantation and pregnancy was 15.4 ± 4.9 yr (range, 10–22 yr). Mean maternal age at conception was 28 ± 3.5 yr (range, 23–32 yr). Mean gestational age was 36.6 ± 1.7 wk. Mean birth weight was 2672 ± 249 g. Immunosuppression was cyclosporin based in three women and tacrolimus based in one woman. Pregnancy complications necessitating the induction of labor included fetal distress and rising maternal liver enzymes in two women, cholestasis of pregnancy and impaired renal graft function in one woman, fetal distress and preeclampsia in one woman. Modes of delivery were normal vaginal delivery in three women and cesarean section in one woman. No maternal or fetal deaths and no congenital malformations occurred. No episodes of rejection occurred during pregnancy. Two women experienced acute cellular rejection requiring an increase in baseline immunosuppression in the first year, following delivery. No graft losses occurred during a mean follow‐up of 44 ± 17.9 months post‐delivery. With careful management, pregnancy post‐liver transplantation can have a successful outcome.
Population dynamics and production of the seagrass Zostera noltii in colonizing versus established meadows
Authors: Cabaço Susana , Santos Rui , Sprung Martin
Published: October 2011

The dynamics of the seagrass Zostera noltii in established and colonizing meadows were assessed in Ria Formosa lagoon, Southern Portugal. Shoot weight, above:belowground biomass ratio, flowering shoot density, meadow production, and biomass–density relationships were investigated. Results indicate that the species population dynamics differ clearly in different development stages of the meadows. The overall mean of flowering shoot density was five times higher in the colonizing (83 flowering shoots m−2) than in the established meadow (16 flowering shoots m−2), revealing a greater contribution of sexual reproduction during the species colonization process. The temporal variation of the biomass–density relationship in the colonizing meadow showed a cyclic seasonal trajectory, a wider range of data, and a simultaneous peak of biomass and density, suggesting no space limitations constraining the internal packing of shoots during the growing season. In the established meadow, density peaked before biomass in agreement to the dominant role of the clonal architecture of seagrasses in the configuration of closed meadows, suggesting the occurrence of self‐thinning and/or regulation of ramet formation. Slope of the biomass–density relationships was similar in the established and colonizing meadows, generally suggesting similar nutritional conditions, regardless of their muddy and sandy sediments. Plants of the colonizing meadow invest mainly on the belowground fraction (above:belowground biomass ratio <1), as meadow expansion is mainly controlled by the elongation of horizontal rhizomes. The annual total production (1163 g C m−2 year−1) and the biomass turnover (34.8 year−1) were also higher in this meadow, corroborating the high investment of the species during the meadow expansion. The faster biomass turnover of the colonizing meadow implies a more limited capacity to accumulate biomass, indicating a greater exportation of organic carbon and nutrients to the coastal area. The different biomass turnover rates suggest different trophic and structural roles of Z. noltii communities in established and colonizing meadows.
Link between CFTR mutations and ABPA: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Agarwal Ritesh , Khan Ajmal , Aggarwal Ashutosh N. , Gupta Dheeraj
Published: October 2011

Summary  There is a biological plausibility on the link between cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) mutations and allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA). The aim of the systematic review was to investigate this link by determining the frequency of CFTR mutations in ABPA. We searched the PubMed and EmBase databases for studies reporting CFTR mutations in ABPA. We pooled the odds ratio (OR) and 95% confidence intervals (CI) from individual studies using both fixed and random effects model. Statistical heterogeneity was evaluated using the I2 test and the Cochran‐Q statistic. Publication bias was assessed using both graphical and statistical methods. Our search yielded four studies (79 ABPA, 268 controls). The odds of encountering CFTR mutation was higher in ABPA compared with the control group (OR 10.39; 95% CI, 4.35–24.79) or the asthma population (OR 5.53; 95% CI 1.62–18.82). There was no evidence of statistical heterogeneity or publication bias. There is a possible pathogenetic link between CFTR mutations and ABPA. However, because of the small numbers of patients, further studies are required to confirm this finding. Future studies should adopt a uniform methodology and should screen for the entire genetic sequence of the CFTR gene.
Protective effect of ligustrazine against myocardial ischaemia reperfusion in rats: The role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase
Authors: Lv Lei , Jiang Shi‐Sen , Xu Jun , Gong Jian‐Bin , Cheng Yan
Published: October 2011

1. The aim of the present study was to determine whether ligustrazine (2,3,5,6‐tetramethylpyrazine; TMP) exerts a cardioprotective effect during myocardial ischaemia reperfusion (IR), and to investigate the underlying mechanisms and the role of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) in cardioprotection.

2. Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into a sham group and five IR groups: IR control, TMP pretreated, TMP + wortmannin (a phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) inhibitor), NG‐nitro‐L‐arginine methyl ester (L‐NAME; a NOS inhibitor) and TMP + L‐NAME. IR was produced by 35 min of regional ischaemia followed by 120 min of reperfusion. Myocardial infarct size, oxidative stress, myocardial apoptosis, nitric oxide (NO) production, and expression of phosphorylated protein kinase B (Akt) and eNOS were measured.

3. TMP markedly decreased infarct size and attenuated myocardial apoptosis, as evidenced by a decrease in the apoptotic index and reduced caspase‐3 activity. TMP treatment caused a marked increase in NO production. Cotreatment with wortmannin or L‐NAME completely blocked the TMP‐induced NO increase. TMP induced phosphorylation of Akt at Ser 473 (1.61 ± 0.18 vs 0.79 ± 0.10 in the IR control group) and phosphorylation of eNOS at Ser1177 (1.87 ± 0.33 vs 0.94 ± 0.22 in the IR control group). Wortmannin abrogated the phosphorylation of Akt and eNOS induced by TMP.

4. These data suggest that ligustrazine has anti‐apoptotic and cardioprotective effects against myocardial IR injury and that it acts through the PI3K/Akt pathway. In addition, the phosphorylation of eNOS with subsequent NO production was found to be an important downstream effector that contributes significantly to the cardioprotective effect of TMP.
Lipopolysaccharide enhances transforming growth factor β1‐induced platelet‐derived growth factor‐B expression in bile duct epithelial cells
Authors: Kassel Karen M , Sullivan Bradley P , Luyendyk James P
Published: October 2011

Background and Aim:  Platelet‐derived growth factor (PDGF)‐B is a potent profibrogenic mediator expressed by bile duct epithelial cells (BDECs) that contributes to liver fibrosis after bile duct ligation. However, the mechanism of PDGF‐B induction in BDECs during cholestasis is not known. Transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) also contribute to the profibrogenic response after bile duct ligation. We tested the hypothesis that LPS and TGFβ1 synergistically induce PDGF‐B expression in BDECs.

Methods:  Transformed human BDECs (MMNK‐1 cells) and primary rat BDECs were stimulated with LPS and/or TGFβ1, and signaling pathways through which LPS potentiates TGFβ1‐induced PDGF‐B mRNA expression were investigated.

Results:  Stimulation of MMNK‐1 cells with LPS alone did not significantly induce PDGF‐B mRNA expression. However, LPS co‐treatment enhanced TGFβ1 induction of PDGF‐B mRNA in MMNK‐1 cells and also in primary rat BDECs. Importantly, co‐treatment of MMNK‐1 cells with LPS and TGFβ1 also significantly increased PDGF‐BB protein expression. Interestingly, LPS did not affect TGFβ1 activation of a SMAD‐dependent reporter construct. Rather, stimulation of MMNK‐1 cells with LPS, but not TGFβ1, increased JNK1/2 phosphorylation. Expression of dominant negative JNK2, but not dominant negative JNK1, inhibited the LPS potentiation of TGFβ1‐induced PDGF‐B mRNA expression in MMNK‐1 cells. In addition, LPS treatment caused IκBα degradation and activation of a nuclear factor κB (NFκB)‐dependent reporter construct. Expression of an IκBα super repressor inhibited activation of NFκB and attenuated LPS potentiation of TGFβ1‐induced PDGF‐B mRNA.

Conclusions:  The results indicate that LPS activation of NFκB and JNK2 enhances TGFβ1‐induced PDGF‐B expression in BDECs.
Adherence to follow‐up after a positive fecal occult blood test in an organized colorectal cancer screening program in Korea, 2004–2008
Authors: Choi Kui Son , Lee Hoo‐Yeon , Jun Jae Kwan , Shin Aesun , Park Eun‐Cheol
Published: October 2011

Background and Aim:  To investigate the participation rates, positivity rates, and follow‐up rates from 2004 to 2008 in an organized colorectal cancer (CRC) screening program using a fecal occult blood test (FOBT) in Korea.

Methods:  The study population was men and women aged 50 years or older who were invited to participate in the National Cancer Screening Program for CRC between 1 January 2004 and 31 December 2008. We collected the FOBT results and follow‐up information for the FOBT positives.

Results:  Participation rates increased steadily each year from 10.5% in 2004 to 21.1% in 2008. Between 2004 and 2008, FOBT positivity rates declined from 8.0% to 6.8%. Among the FOBT‐positives, 61.3% of participants underwent either colonoscopy or double contrast barium enema (DCBE) in 2004, and this rate decreased to 38.6% in 2008. Age, health insurance type, and screening history were associated with adherence to follow‐up test after a positive FOBT. With regard to follow‐up tests, colonoscopy rates increased from 17.9% in 2004 to 27.6% in 2008, while DCBE decreased from 43.4% in 2004 to 11.0% in 2008. Colonoscopy was significantly more likely to be chosen as a follow‐up test by men, participants aged 50–59 years, and National Health Insurance beneficiaries.

Conclusion:  These findings suggest that targeting participants for follow‐up, based on age and previous screening history, could be a good way to improve the follow‐up rate.