bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Housing and dustbathing effects on northern fowl mites (Ornithonyssus sylviarum) and chicken body lice (Menacanthus stramineus) on hens
Authors: MARTIN C. D. , MULLENS B. A.
Published: March 2012

Hen housing (cage or cage‐free) did not impact overall abundances of northern fowl mites,Ornithonyssus sylviarum(Canestrini & Fanzago) (Acari: Macronyssidae), or chicken body lice,Menacanthus stramineus(Nitzsch) (Phthiraptera: Menoponidae). Cage‐free hens received a dustbox with sand plus diatomaceous earth (DE), kaolin clay or sulphur. Weekly use varied from none to 100% of hens; 73% of hens used the dustbox at least once. Ectoparasite populations on dustbathing hens (users) were compared with those on non‐user cage‐free and caged hens. All materials reduced ectoparasites on user hens by 80–100% after 1 week of dustbox use. Diatomaceous earth and kaolin failed to reduce ectoparasites on non‐user hens, and ectoparasites on user hens recovered after dustbox removal. A sulphur dustbox eliminated mites from all hens (including non‐users) within 2–4 weeks. Residual sulphur controlled mites until the end of the experiment (up to 9 weeks), even after the dustbox was removed. Louse populations on hens using the sulphur dustbox were reduced in 1–2 weeks. Residual sulphur effects were less evident in lice, but the use of a sulphur dustbox by a higher proportion of hens extended louse control to all hens. This is the first experimental study to show that bird dustbathing in naturally and widely available dust materials (particularly kaolin) can suppress ectoparasites and thus the behaviour is probably adaptive.
Cost of reproduction in males of a satyrine butterfly Lethe diana
Authors: TAKEUCHI TSUYOSHI
Published: April 2012

Adult butterflies feed largely on floral nectar and tree sap, both of which consist mainly of carbohydrates and include little nitrogen. They depend on the larval diet for nitrogenous resources. Consequently, there is a trade‐off between the reproductive and somatic nitrogenous investments of adults. Furthermore, male butterflies invest a considerable amount into spermatophores, containing nitrogen, which they give to their sexual partners. One way in which male butterflies could potentially replenish their spermatophores is by flight muscle histolysis, which may reduce locomotor ability and lifespan. In the present study, the effect of mating experience on nitrogen dynamics and the lifespan of males is investigated in the satyrine butterfly Lethe diana (Butler). Mated males do not have less thoracic nitrogen than virgin males, suggesting that mating experiences do not induce spermatophore recovery through flight muscle histolysis. Mated males possess less abdominal nitrogen than virgin males at death, indicating that they cannot recover the lost nitrogenous resource used for a single mating. Lifespan does not differ between mated and virgin males. Thus, reproduction and longevity are not fuelled necessarily by the same shared resource pools. Spermatophore mass increases as males get older. Considering that resources for producing spermatophores are limited, males may adjust the spermatophore mass strategically, depending on their chances of future reproduction.
HbCIPK2, a novel CBL‐interacting protein kinase from halophyte Hordeum brevisubulatum, confers salt and osmotic stress tolerance
Authors: LI RUIFEN , ZHANG JUNWEN , WU GUANGYU , WANG HONGZHI , CHEN YAJUAN , WEI JIANHUA
Published: March 2012

Protein kinases play an important role in regulating the response to abiotic stress in plant. CIPKs are plant‐specific signal transducers, and some members have been identified. However, the precise functions of novel CIPKs still remain unknown. Here we report that HbCIPK2 is a positive regulator of salt and osmotic stress tolerance. HbCIPK2 was screened out of the differentially expressed fragments from halophyte Hordeum brevisubulatum by cDNA‐AFLP technique, and was a single‐copy gene without intron. Expression of HbCIPK2 was increased by salt, drought and ABA treatment. HbCIPK2 is mainly localized to the plasma membrane and nucleus. Ectopic expression of 35S:HbCIPK2 not only rescued the salt hypersensitivity in Arabidopsis mutant sos2‐1, but also enhanced salt tolerance in Arabidopsis wild type, and exhibited tolerance to osmotic stress during germination. The HbCIPK2 contributed to the ability to prevent K+ loss in root and to accumulate less Na+ in shoot resulting in K+/Na+ homeostasis and protection of root cell from death, which is consistent with the gene expression profile of HbCIPK2‐overexpressing lines. These findings imply possible novel HbCIPK2‐mediated salt signalling pathways or networks in H. brevisubulatum.
Monocytoid B cells: An Enigmatic B cell Subset Showing Evidence of Extrafollicular Immunoglobulin gene Somatic Hypermutation
Authors: Warsame A. , Delabie J. , Malecka A. , Wang J. , Trøen G. , Tierens A.
Published: April 2012

Monocytoid B cells are IgM+, IgD−/+, CD27− B cells, localized in the perisinusoidal area of the lymph node. These cells are especially prominent in infections such as those caused by toxoplasma and HIV. The ontogeny of monocytoid B cells with respect to B cell maturation is incompletely known. We analysed clonal expansion, somatic hypermutation and expression of activation‐induced cytidine deaminase (AID) in monocytoid B cells. Sequence analysis of the rearranged immunoglobulin heavy chain genes amplified from microdissected monocytoid B cell zones with a high proportion of proliferating cells reveals the presence of multiple clones with low‐level ongoing mutations (mean frequency: 0.46 × 10−2 per bp). Mutation analysis of these ongoing mutations reveals strand bias, a preference of transitions over transversions as well as the occurrence of small deletions, as observed for somatically mutated immunoglobulin genes in the human germinal centre. Proliferation, ongoing mutation as well as expression of AID, combined, is evidence that monocytoid B cells acquire the mutations in the extrafollicular perisinusoidal area of the lymph node and pleads against a postgerminal centre B cell origin.
The post‐pollination ethylene burst and the continuation of floral advertisement are harbingers of non‐random mate selection in Nicotiana attenuata
Authors: Bhattacharya Samik , Baldwin Ian T.
Published: March 2012

The self‐compatible plant Nicotiana attenuata grows in genetically diverse populations after fires, and produces flowers that remain open for 3 days and are visited by assorted pollinators. To determine whether and when post‐pollination non‐random mate selection occurs among self and non‐self pollen, seed paternity and semi‐in vivo pollen tube growth were determined in controlled single/mixed pollinations. Despite all pollen sources being equally proficient in siring seeds in single‐genotype pollinations, self pollen was consistently selected in mixed pollinations, irrespective of maternal genotype. However, clear patterns of mate discrimination occurred amongst non‐self pollen when mixed pollinations were performed soon after corollas open, including selection against hygromycin B resistance (transformation selectable marker) in wild‐type styles and for it in transformed styles. However, mate choice among pollen genotypes was completely shut down in plants transformed to be unable to produce (irACO) or perceive (ETR1) ethylene. The post‐pollination ethylene burst, which originates primarily from the stigma and upper style, was strongly correlated with mate selection in single and mixed hand‐pollinations using eight pollen donors in two maternal ecotypes. The post‐pollination ethylene burst was also negatively correlated with the continuation of emission of benzylacetone, the most abundant pollinator‐attracting corolla‐derived floral volatile. We conclude that ethylene signaling plays a pivotal role in mate choice, and the post‐pollination ethylene burst and the termination of benzylacetone release are accurate predictors, both qualitatively and quantitatively, of pre‐zygotic mate selection and seed paternity.
Oxygen measurements in platelet fluids – a new non‐invasive method to detect bacterial contaminations in platelets
Authors: Mueller M. M. , Hourfar M. K. , Huber E. , Sireis W. , Weichert W. , Seifried E. , Tonn T. , Schmidt M.
Published: March 2012

Background: The residual risk for bacterial contamination in blood components especially in platelets is one to two orders of magnitude higher than for transfusion relevant viral infections. The majority of all bacterial transmitted fatalities occurred at the end of platelet shelf life. Therefore, the maximum shelf life of platelet concentrates (PC) was reduced to 4 days after blood donation in Germany in 2008.

Methods: A new continuous non‐invasive bacterial detection method was developed by O2 measurements in the platelet fluids and tested with 10 transfusion relevant bacteria species.

Results: The bacterial concentration at the time point of a positive signal of PreSense O2 ranged between 102 and 105 CFU mL−1. Harmful transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infection would have probably been prevented by this novel technology. Only strict anaerobic bacteria strains like Clostridium perfringens were not detected within the study period of 72 h.

Conclusions: The described non‐invasive bacterial detection method represents a new approach to prevent transmission of bacterial infection in platelets. The method is characterised by the advantage that all investigations can be performed until right up to the time of transfusion, and therefore, reduce the risk for sample errors to a minimum.
White matter volume in alcohol use disorders: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Monnig Mollie A. , Tonigan J. Scott , Yeo Ronald A. , Thoma Robert J. , McCrady Barbara S.
Published: March 2012

Atrophy of brain white matter (WM) often is considered a signature injury of alcohol use disorders (AUDs). However, investigations into AUD‐related changes in WM volume have yielded complex findings that are difficult to synthesize in a narrative review. The objective of this study was to obtain an averaged effect size (ES) for WM volume reduction associated with AUD diagnosis and to test potential moderators of ES. Study inclusion criteria were: (1) English language; (2) peer reviewed; (3) published before December 2011; (4) use of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI); (5) human participants; (6) inclusion of AUD group; (7) inclusion of non‐AUD comparison group; and (8) reporting or testing of total or cerebral WM volume. Moderators included study design, MRI methodology and AUD characteristics. Nineteen studies with a total of 1302 participants (70% male) were included, and calculated ESs were confirmed by the corresponding author for 12 studies. The magnitude of the averaged ES adjusted for small sample bias (Hedges'g) for WM reduction in AUDs was 0.304 (standard error = 0.134, range = −0.57–1.21). Hierarchical linear modeling indicated that the overall ES differed significantly from 0,t(18) = 2.257,P = 0.037, and that the distribution of the 19 ESs showed significant heterogeneity beyond sampling error,χ2(18) = 52.400,P < 0.001. Treatment‐seeking status and length of abstinence were significant moderators of ES distribution. These results are suggestive of WM recovery with sustained abstinence and point to the need for further investigation of factors related to treatment‐seeking status.
Serum brain‐derived neurotrophic factor levels were reduced during methamphetamine early withdrawal
Authors: Chen Pao‐Huan , Huang Ming‐Chi , Lai Ying‐Ching , Chen Po‐Yu , Liu Hsing‐Cheng
Published: March 2012

Methamphetamine (METH) abuse is an increasing public health problem worldwide. Many of the METH‐induced physical and mental problems are associated with the neurotoxic effects of METH. Animal studies have shown that brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) decreased after repeated amphetamine administration and increased at 30 and 90 days from psychostimulant withdrawal, suggesting that there might be a psychostimulant‐induced neuroprotective dysfunction followed by a neuroadaptive process in the brain. However, current research on the role of BDNF in human METH addiction is limited, particularly during early withdrawal. The aim of this study was to assess the serum BDNF levels in METH abusers during the early withdrawal stage. Two groups of subjects were enrolled: (1) 59 DSM‐IV METH abusers confirmed by board‐certified psychiatrists during the first 3 weeks of withdrawal; (2) 59 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls. We found that serum BDNF levels were significantly and constantly lower in the METH abusers during early withdrawal than those of the healthy controls. This indicates that METH abusers might have severe BDNF dysfunction and an impaired neuroprotective function after repetitive METH misuse.
Brain activation to cocaine cues and motivation/treatment status
Authors: Prisciandaro James J. , McRae‐Clark Aimee L. , Myrick Hugh , Henderson Scott , Brady Kathleen T.
Published: March 2012

Motivation to change is believed to be a key factor in therapeutic success in substance use disorders; however, the neurobiological mechanisms through which motivation to change impacts decreased substance use remain unclear. Existing research is conflicting, with some investigations supporting decreased and others reporting increased frontal activation to drug cues in individuals seeking treatment for substance use disorders. The present study investigated the relationship between motivation to change cocaine use and cue‐elicited brain activity in cocaine‐dependent individuals using two conceptualizations of ‘motivation to change’: (1) current treatment status (i.e. currently receiving versus not receiving outpatient treatment for cocaine dependence) and (2) self‐reported motivation to change substance use, using the Stages of Change Readiness and Treatment Eagerness Scale. Thirty‐eight cocaine‐dependent individuals (14 currently in treatment) completed a diagnostic assessment and an fMRI cocaine cue‐reactivity task. Whole‐brain analyses demonstrated that both treatment‐seeking and motivated participants had lower activation to cocaine cues in a wide variety of brain regions in the frontal, occipital, temporal and cingulate cortices relative to non‐treatment–seeking and less motivated participants. Future research is needed to explain the mechanism by which treatment and/or motivation impacts neural cue reactivity, as such work could potentially aid in the development of more effective therapeutic techniques for substance‐dependent patients.
Anti‐addiction drug ibogaine inhibits hERG channels: a cardiac arrhythmia risk
Authors: Koenig Xaver , Kovar Michael , Boehm Stefan , Sandtner Walter , Hilber Karlheinz
Published: March 2012

Ibogaine, an alkaloid derived from the African shrub Tabernanthe iboga, has shown promising anti‐addictive properties in animals. Anecdotal evidence suggests that ibogaine is also anti‐addictive in humans. Thus, it alleviates drug craving and impedes relapse of drug use. Although not licensed as therapeutic drug, and despite evidence that ibogaine may disturb the rhythm of the heart, this alkaloid is currently used as an anti‐addiction drug in alternative medicine. Here, we report that therapeutic concentrations of ibogaine reduce currents through human ether‐a‐go‐go‐related gene potassium channels. Thereby, we provide a mechanism by which ibogaine may generate life‐threatening cardiac arrhythmias.
Methylphenidate and cocaine self‐administration produce distinct dopamine terminal alterations
Authors: Calipari Erin S. , Ferris Mark J. , Melchior James R. , Bermejo Kristel , Salahpour Ali , Roberts David C. S. , Jones Sara R.
Published: March 2012

Methylphenidate (MPH) is a commonly abused psychostimulant prescribed for the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. MPH has a mechanism of action similar to cocaine (COC) and is commonly characterized as a dopamine transporter (DAT) blocker. While there has been extensive work aimed at understanding dopamine (DA) nerve terminal changes following COC self‐administration, very little is known about the effects of MPH self‐administration on the DA system. We used fast scan cyclic voltammetry in nucleus accumbens core slices from animals with a 5‐day self‐administration history of 40 injections/day of either MPH (0.56 mg/kg) or COC (1.5 mg/kg) to explore alterations in baseline DA release and uptake kinetics as well as alterations in the interaction of each compound with the DAT. Although MPH and COC have similar behavioral effects, the consequences of self‐administration on DA system parameters were found to be divergent. We show that COC self‐administration reduced DAT levels and maximal rates of DA uptake, as well as reducing electrically stimulated release, suggesting decreased DA terminal function. In contrast, MPH self‐administration increased DAT levels, DA uptake rates and DA release, suggesting enhanced terminal function, which was supported by findings of increased metabolite/DA tissue content ratios. Tyrosine hydroxylase messenger RNA, protein and phosphorylation levels were also assessed in both groups. Additionally, COC self‐administration reduced COC‐induced DAT inhibition, while MPH self‐administration increased MPH‐induced DAT inhibition, suggesting opposite pharmacodynamic effects of these two drugs. These findings suggest that the factors governing DA system adaptations are more complicated than simple DA uptake blockade.
Effect of ammonium‐iron‐hexa‐cyanoferrate and of the covariates age, gender, weight, season and calendar time on radiocaesium contamination of wild boars living in the wild in Bavaria
Authors: Kienzle E. , Reddemann J. , Swart D. , Swart A. , Draxler B. , Morfeld P.
Published: March 2012

Feed with Ammonium‐iron‐hexa‐cyanoferrate (AFCF; 1250 mg AFCF/kg) was fed between March 2009 and March 2011 to wild boars in a territory of 4.5 km2 (experimental group, EXP). One hundred and forty similar territories in the same county (500 km2, spruce forest, agriculture) served as control (CON). Data for comparison from all territories were available from March 2005 to March 2011. Wild boars could move between, into and from the territories. Lean skeletal muscle meat (500 g) of all wild boars that were killed by humans (hunting and traffic accidents) was investigated for gamma‐radiation from 137Cs with a becquerel monitor with a sodium iodide scintillator crystal (range of detection 20–9999 Bq/kg). The wild boars were weighed, and gender and age were determined. For the analyses of effects, multivariable regression models were fitted with the 137Cs concentration as response variable. There was a significant difference between the 137Cs contamination of wild boars from CON (563 ± 932 Bq/kg meat, n = 1253) and EXP (236 ± 276 Bq/kg meat; n = 45). 137Cs contamination decreased with increasing body weight by −5 Bq/kg meat/kg body weight increase (p < 0.05). Females had higher Bq measurements than males (by +80 Bq/kg meat, p < 0.05). Piglets were lower than adults, but turn‐coats higher. From November to May, contamination was higher (by +500 to +600 Bq/kg meat, p < 0.05) than during the rest of the year. In 2010, contamination was higher (by +200 to + 300 Bq/kg meat, p < 0.05) in comparison with the other years under observation. When all covariates were controlled for, the effect of AFCF was highly significant. Interaction analyses showed that the intervention decreased 137Cs contamination by −500 Bq/kg meat during November to May and by −200 Bq/kg meat during the rest of the year. In summary, AFCF feeding reduces 137Cs contamination of wild boars living in the wild significantly, particularly during the season from November to May.
Electromyographic evaluation of masseter muscle activity in horses fed (i) different types of roughage and (ii) maize after different hay allocations
Authors: Vervuert I. , Brüssow N. , Bochnia M. , Cuddeford D. , Coenen M.
Published: March 2012

The aims of this study were to monitor electromyographic (EMG) activity of masseter muscle in healthy horses fed (i) different types of roughage and (ii) maize after different hay allocations. Four horses were offered the following three diets ad libitum: hay, haylage or straw/alfalfa chaff (SAC). In a second trial, four horses were fed cracked maize (CM) and hay in three different orders: (i) CM after a 12‐h overnight fast; (ii) CM immediately after restricted hay intake (0.6 kg hay/100 kg BW); or 3) CM after hay intake ad libitum. The activity of the masseter muscle was determined by EMG (IED®), and the following were measured: amplitude (muscle action potential = MAP, maximum voltage) and duration of MAP (s). The intake of hay or haylage was associated with intense masseter muscle activity (MAP: hay, 10 ± 1.7 V; haylage, 11 ± 3.3 V; and duration of MAP: hay, 0.31 ± 0.04 s; haylage, 0.30 ± 0.04 s). Similar intense chewing was measured for SAC (MAP 13 ± 3.8 V), although duration of the chewing cycle was relatively short (0.22 ± 0.03 s, diet p < 0.05), which is possibly related to the shorter fibre length. CM was consumed rapidly, with less intense masseter muscle activity (MAP 6.0 ± 1.5 V). Hay intake before CM did not affect chewing force of CM, but duration of chewing cycle was significantly prolonged by feeding hay ad libitum before CM was fed. The consumption of hay, haylage or SAC was associated with intensive masseter muscle activity that was likely to stimulate salivary flow rate. In contrast to roughage, concentrates like CM are consumed rapidly with less intensive masseter muscle activity. This situation is associated with a low salivary flow that may have an adverse effect on gastric function.
Effect of intake of linoleic acid and α‐linolenic acid levels on conversion into long‐chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in backfat and in intramuscular fat of growing pigs
Authors: Smink W. , Verstegen M. W. A. , Gerrits W. J. J.
Published: March 2012

A study was conducted to determine the effect of two levels of linoleic acid (LA) intake at either high or low α‐linolenic acid (ALA) intake on their conversion and subsequent deposition into long‐chain (20–22 C‐atoms) polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC PUFA) in muscle and backfat in growing pigs. In a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement, 32 gilts from 8 litters were assigned to one of four dietary treatments, varying in LA and ALA intakes. Low ALA and LA intakes were 0.15 and 1.31 g/(kg BW0.75/day), respectively, and high ALA and LA intakes were 1.48 and 2.65 g/(kg BW0.75/day) respectively. There was a close positive relation between intake of ALA and the concentration of ALA in backfat and in intramuscular fat. Dietary ALA did not affect the concentration of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), but increased docosapentaenoic acid (DPA) in backfat. High ALA intake did not significantly affect DHA but significantly increased EPA, 20:3 n‐3 and DPA concentrations in intramuscular fat. The n‐3 LC PUFA proportion in backfat was increased from approximately 1–3%, which may be useful to enrich meat with these fatty acids. The effect of ALA intake on n‐3 LC PUFA was suppressed by LA intake. Dietary ALA suppressed the concentration of n‐6 LC PUFA in blood plasma by more than 50%. When compared at equal incremental dose, the inhibiting effect of ALA on blood arachidonic acid was stronger than the stimulating effect of LA as precursor.
Essential roles of clinical nurse instructors in Japan: A Delphi study
Authors: Yamada Satoko , Ota Katsumasa
Published: March 2012

In Japan, the clinical nurse instructor is a staff nurse who teaches in clinical practicums. However, there is no consensus on the essential roles that clinical nurse instructors are expected to perform. We conducted a three‐round Delphi survey to clarify the essential roles of the clinical nurse instructor in clinical practicums in undergraduate nursing education. The participants were an expert panel of 48 professionals in nursing education and clinical practicums, who rated the importance of 58 role items that were established through a literature review and pilot survey. Thirty one of these items were identified as essential roles, based on agreement of 80% or more of respondents. Further investigation revealed nine of the 31 items to be core roles, defined as the minimum essential roles that must be performed by clinical nurse instructors, however busy they become. The nine core roles are related to proper preparation for the clinical practicum, patient safety, and coordination with the nursing school faculty. It is important for the nursing school faculty to support and work in cooperation with clinical nurse instructors to help them fulfill these roles.
Cancer disclosure: Experiences of Iranian cancer patients
Authors: Valizadeh Leila , Zamanzadeh Vahid , Rahmani Azad , Howard Fuchsia , Nikanfar Ali‐Reza , Ferguson Caleb
Published: March 2012

This study explored Iranian patients' experiences of cancer disclosure, paying particular attention to the ways of disclosure. Twenty cancer patients were invited to participate in this qualitative inquiry by research staff in the clinical setting. In‐depth, semistructured interview data were analyzed through content analysis. The rigor of the study was established by principles of credibility, transferability, dependability, and confirmability. Four themes emerged: the atmosphere of non‐disclosure, eventual disclosure, distress in knowing, and the desire for information. Non‐disclosure was the norm for participants, and all individuals involved made efforts to maintain an atmosphere of non‐disclosure. While a select few were informed of their diagnosis by a physician or another patient, the majority eventually became aware of their diagnosis indirectly by different ways. All participants experienced distress after disclosure. The participants wanted basic information about their prognosis and treatments from their treating physicians, but did not receive this information, and encountered difficulty accessing information elsewhere. These challenges highlight the need for changes in current medical practice in Iran, as well as patient and healthcare provider education.
Branch thoracic stent graft repair for arch aneurysm
Authors: Stanley Brendan M. , Mylankal Kurian J. , Tibballs Jonathan , Bond Richard , Hartley David
Published: March 2012

Aortic arch aneurysms involving the major vessels of the neck pose great challenges in their repair. Open repair of these aneurysms are associated with a significant morbidity and mortality. The major challenge for endovascular repair of these complex aneurysms is the maintenance of cerebral perfusion during stent implantation and long‐term durability. This paper discusses preoperative planning and technical aspects to successful endovascular repair of a large aortic arch aneurysm involving the distal take‐off of the left subclavian artery.
Mutualistic interactions between vitamin B12‐dependent algae and heterotrophic bacteria exhibit regulation
Authors: Kazamia Elena , Czesnick Hjördis , Nguyen Thi Thanh Van , Croft Martin Tom , Sherwood Emma , Sasso Severin , Hodson Sarah James , Warren Martin James , Smith Alison Gail
Published: March 2012

Many algae are auxotrophs for vitamin B12 (cobalamin), which they need as a cofactor for B12‐dependent methionine synthase (METH). Because only prokaryotes can synthesize the cobalamin, they must be the ultimate source of the vitamin. In the laboratory, a direct interaction between algae and heterotrophic bacteria has been shown, with bacteria supplying cobalamin in exchange for fixed carbon. Here we establish a system to study this interaction at the molecular level. In a culture of a B12‐dependent green alga Chlamydomonas nivalis, we found a contaminating bacterium, identified by 16S rRNA analysis as Mesorhizobium sp. Using the sequenced strain of M. loti (MAFF303099), we found that it was able to support the growth of B12‐dependent Lobomonas rostrata, another green alga, in return for fixed carbon. The two organisms form a stable equilibrium in terms of population numbers, which is maintained over many generations in semi‐continuous culture, indicating a degree of regulation. However, addition of either vitamin B12 or a carbon source for the bacteria perturbs the equilibrium, demonstrating that the symbiosis is mutualistic and facultative. Chlamydomonas reinhardtii does not require B12 for growth because it encodes a B12‐independent methionine synthase, METE, the gene for which is suppressed by addition of exogenous B12. Co‐culturing C. reinhardtii with M. loti also results in reduction of METE expression, demonstrating that the bacterium can deliver the vitamin to this B12‐independent alga. We discuss the implications of this for the widespread distribution of cobalamin auxotrophy in the algal kingdom.
Breastfeeding support received by Turkish first‐time mothers
Authors: Demirtas B.
Published: March 2012

DEMIRTAS B. (2012) Breastfeeding support received by Turkish first‐time mothers. International Nursing Review59, 338–344

Background:  Research conducted to examine nurses' breastfeeding support to first‐time mothers is sparse in Turkey.

Aim:  To identify informational, practical and emotional support that mothers had received from nurses in the early postpartum period.

Methods:  A descriptive and cross‐sectional study of 192 mothers who took part in the research prior to discharge from a maternity hospital in Ankara, Turkey. Mean, standard deviation and percentages were used to analyze the maternal characteristics. Chi‐square test was used to analyze informational, practical and emotional support received by the mothers in relation to socio‐demographic characteristics. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to evaluate risk factors for in‐hospital formula supplementation and experiencing breastfeeding problem.

Results:  The mothers stated that the information provided should be adequate (41%), given individually (36.3%) and taught through practice (41%). Supplementary feeding was the only statistically significant predictor of in‐hospital breastfeeding problems [P < 0.01, odds ratio (OR) 0.109, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.33–0.361]. Experiencing a breastfeeding problem, not receiving practical support, and the unavailability of nurses were statistically significant predictors of supplementation respectively (P < 0.01, OR 0.084, 95% CI 0.023–0.309; P < 0.05, OR 0.239, 95% CI 0.071–0.809; P < 0.05, OR 3.442, 95% CI 1.059–11.183, respectively).

Conclusion:  Informational, practical and emotional support offered by nurses has the potential to make a difference in reducing breastfeeding problems and in‐hospital supplementation. Practical support could be enhanced through effective implementation of early maternal/infant skin‐to‐skin contact in a busy hospital environment.
Challenges on the path to cultural safety in nursing education
Authors: Arieli D. , Friedman V.J. , Hirschfeld M.J.
Published: March 2012

ARIELI D., FRIEDMAN V.J. & HIRSCHFELD M.J. (2012) Challenges on the path to cultural safety in nursing education. International Nursing Review59, 187–193

Aim:  The purpose of this study is to identify central challenges to be addressed in cultural safety education.

Background:  In recent years, the idea of cultural safety has received increased attention as a way of dealing with diversity in the nursing profession, especially in divided societies. The idea of cultural safety goes beyond recognizing and appreciating difference, to an attempt to grappling with deeper issues like inequality, conflict and histories of oppression.

Methods:  The paper is based on formative evaluation, using action research, of an academic nursing programme in Israel, involving Jewish and Arab students. Part of this research dealt with the integration of cultural safety education into the curriculum.

Findings:  The study revealed four challenges in cultural safety education: making it safe for minorities to present their culture to the majority group (‘the ambassador's dilemma’), dealing with tendency of groups to deny the existence of conflict (‘the one big happy family fantasy’), making dynamics of oppression discussable (‘the oppressed and the oppressor’) and creating conditions in which people can freely choose their individual and group identities (‘the threat of identity’).

Conclusion:  Cultural safety education may be experienced as unsafe for many participants. Better understanding of the challenges of cultural safety education is necessary for making it more effective.
A disarmingly simple idea? Practical bottlenecks in the implementation of a universal basic income
Authors: De Wispelaere Jurgen , Stirton Lindsay
Published: April 2012

This article considers the implementation of a universal basic income, a neglected area in basic income research. We identify and examine three important practical bottlenecks that may prevent a basic income scheme from attaining the universal reach desired and proclaimed by its advocates: i) maintaining a population‐wide cadaster of eligible claimants ensuring full takeup; ii) instituting robust modalities of payment that reach all intended beneficiaries; and iii) designing an effective oversight mechanism in a policy context that actively opposes client monitoring. We argue that the implementation of universal basic income faces unique challenges that its proponents must consider carefully.
Clinical, dermoscopic and reflectance confocal microscopy features of sebaceous neoplasms in Muir–Torre syndrome
Authors: Moscarella E. , Argenziano G. , Longo C. , Cota C. , Ardigò M. , Stigliano V. , Mete L.S. , Donati P. , Piana S. , Silipo V. , Catricalà C. , Albertini G. , Zalaudek I.
Published: April 2012

Background  Muir–Torre syndrome (MTS) is an autosomal‐dominant disorder characterized by the association of sebaceous tumors or keratoacanthomas with an early onset visceral cancer in the spectrum of Lynch syndrome.

Observations  A total of 20 sebaceous tumors including 18 sebaceous adenoma and two sebaceomas of six patients with MTS were analysed. Two main clinico‐dermoscopic features were observed: (1) clinically pink to white papules/nodules with a central crater, dermoscopically characterized by radially arranged, elongated crown vessels surrounding opaque structureless yellow areas at times covered by blood crusts (n = 13) and (2), clinically pink to yellow papules/nodules without a central crater, dermoscopically exhibiting a few, loosely arranged yellow comedo‐like globules and branching arborizing vessels (n = 7). Confocal microscopy was available in three sebaceous adenomas and revealed a good histopathologic correlation; sebaceous lobules were composed by clusters of ovoid cells with dark nuclei and bright, highly refractile glistening cytoplasm. They were delimited by a rim of epithelial cells, corresponding to basaloid cells.

Conclusions  A better characterization of clinical, dermoscopic and confocal microscopy features of sebaceous tumors may improve their recognition and consequently, aid to rise the suspect for MTS.
Exploring Logistics Aspects of Flood Emergency Measures
Authors: de Leeuw Sander , Vis Iris F. A. , Jonkman Sebastiaan N.
Published: March 2012

Floods are often preceded by warnings such as heavy rain that may make preparatory activities possible in order to prevent flooding from actually happening. However, flood emergency preparedness lacks insight in logistical aspects. This paper develops a framework of logistical aspects of emergency measures that support preventing catastrophic breaching of flood defences during extreme situations. The Netherlands is taken as a reference because large parts of the country are prone to flooding. Furthermore, the Netherlands has a long‐standing experience with implementing flood emergency measures. This paper is particularly focused on the role of Water Boards, the Dutch government agencies responsible for securing flood defences. Structured interviews with Water Boards are used to develop and illustrate a framework of logistical aspects for emergency flood preparedness.
Civic or ethnic nation? Two competing concepts in interwar Latvia
Authors: Germane Marina
Published: March 2012

This article examines the historical development of the two different concepts of the Latvian nation: the one that included the equal participation of all ethnic groups residing in Latvia, and the one that put them at the margins of the new state. In 1919, citizenship was granted to all Latvian residents irrespective of their ethnicity, while the Law on Minorities' Schools established a framework for cultural autonomy. National unity was perceived as being crucial to state independence, and remained central to political debates in the first republic. However, similarly to elsewhere in Central and Eastern Europe, the creation of the political nation faced a number of serious domestic and international challenges. The worldwide economic depression and the parliamentary crisis of the 1930s finally tipped the scale in favour of the ethnic version of the Latvian nation. Nevertheless, even seventy years later, the brave multicultural experiment in this small Baltic country resonates with modern debates on nation‐building and minority rights.
Polyphosphates as inhibitors of surface mould growth on hard cheese during ripening
Authors: SUÁREZ VIVIANA B , TREMMEL GUSTAVO J , RIVERA MAURICIO , REINHEIMER JORGE A , MEINARDI CARLOS A
Published: March 2012

A novel treatment using polyphosphates to protect cheeses against superficial mould growth was assayed. The treatments were: control commercial paint with natamycin (I), commercial paint based on polyvinyl–water (II), immersion in a saturated solution of polyphosphate (III), immersion and commercial paint (IV), commercial paint of polyphosphate solutions (V) and immersion and commercial paint of a saturated solution of polyphosphates (VI). The cheeses were ripened for 6 months. Superficial mould growth was inhibited in groups IV and VI when compared to cheeses from the control group (I). Statistical sensory analysis made between cheeses from groups IV and I (control) showed no significant differences.
Longitudinal vitamin D status in pregnancy and the risk of pre‐eclampsia
Authors: Wei SQ , Audibert F , Hidiroglou N , Sarafin K , Julien P , Wu Y , Luo ZC , Fraser WD
Published: March 2012

Please cite this paper as: Dr Wei SQ, Audibert F, Hidiroglou N, Sarafin K, Julien P, Wu Y, Luo ZC, Fraser WD. Longitudinal vitamin D status in pregnancy and the risk of pre‐eclampsia. BJOG 2012;119:832–839.

Objective  Whether vitamin D deficiency in pregnancy is a cause of pre‐eclampsia remains controversial. Most previous studies to date have assessed exposure at only one time‐point in pregnancy. We assessed longitudinal vitamin D status during pregnancy and the risk of pre‐eclampsia.

Design  Prospective cohort study.

Setting  Seventeen urban obstetric hospitals, Canada.

Population  Pregnant women who were participants in a trial of vitamin C and E supplementation for the prevention of pre‐eclampsia. Canadian participants who consented to participate in a biobank with plasma specimens available at the baseline visit were included (n = 697).

Methods  Maternal plasma 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) concentrations were measured at 12–18 and 24–26 weeks of gestation using chemiluminescence immunoassay.

Main outcome measures  Pre‐eclampsia.

Results  Of the women, 39% were vitamin D deficient (25(OH)D <50 nmol/l). A strong positive correlation was observed in maternal 25(OH)D concentrations between the two gestational age windows (r = 0.69, P < 0.0001). Mean maternal 25(OH)D concentrations at 24–26 weeks of gestation were significantly lower in women who subsequently developed pre‐eclampsia compared with those who did not (mean ± SD: 48.9 ± 16.8 versus 57.0 ± 19.1 nmol/l, P = 0.03). Women with 25(OH)D < 50 nmol/l at 24–26 weeks gestation experienced an increased risk of pre‐eclampsia (adjusted odds ratio 3.24, 95% confidence interval 1.37–7.69), whereas the association was not statistically significant for maternal 25(OH)D level at 12–18 weeks of gestation.

Conclusions  Lower maternal 25(OH)D levels at late mid‐trimester were associated with an increased risk of pre‐eclampsia.
Implementation of Web 2.0 services in academic, medical and research libraries: a scoping review
Authors: Gardois Paolo , Colombi Nicoletta , Grillo Gaetano , Villanacci Maria C.
Published: March 2012

Background:  Academic, medical and research libraries frequently implement Web 2.0 services for users. Several reports notwithstanding, characteristics and effectiveness of services are unclear.

Objectives:  To find out: the Web 2.0 services implemented by medical, academic and research libraries; study designs, measures and types of data used in included articles to evaluate effectiveness; whether the identified body of literature is amenable to a systematic review of results.

Methods:  Scoping review mapping the literature on the topic. Searches were performed in 19 databases. Inclusion criteria: research articles in English, Italian, German, French and Spanish (publication date ≥2006) about Web 2.0 services for final users implemented by academic, medical and research libraries. Reviewers’ agreement was measured by Cohen’s kappa. From a data set of 6461 articles, 255 (4%) were coded and analysed.

Results:  Conferencing/chat/instant messaging, blogging, podcasts, social networking, wikis and aggregators were frequently examined. Services were mainly targeted at general academic users of English‐speaking countries.

Conclusions:  Data prohibit a reliable estimate of the relative frequency of implemented Web 2.0 services. Case studies were the prevalent design. Most articles evaluated different outcomes using diverse assessment methodologies. A systematic review is recommended to assess the effectiveness of such services.
Pcp4l1 contains an auto‐inhibitory element that prevents its IQ motif from binding to calmodulin
Authors: Morgan Marc A. J. , Morgan James I.
Published: March 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 843–851.

Purkinje cell protein 4‐like 1 (Pcp4l1) is a small neuronal IQ motif protein closely related to the calmodulin‐binding protein Pcp4/PEP‐19. PEP‐19 interacts with calmodulin via its IQ motif to inhibit calmodulin‐dependent enzymes and we hypothesized Pcp4l1 would have similar properties. Surprisingly, full‐length Pcp4l1 does not interact with calmodulin in yeast two‐hybrid or pulldown experiments yet a synthetic peptide constituting only the IQ motif of Pcp4l1 binds calmodulin and inhibits calmodulin‐dependent kinase II. A nine‐residue glutamic acid‐rich sequence in Pcp4l1 confers these unexpected properties. This element lies outside the IQ motif and its deletion or exchange with the homologous region of PEP‐19 restores calmodulin binding. Conversion of a single isoleucine (Ile36) within this motif to phenylalanine, the residue present in PEP‐19, imparts calmodulin binding onto Pcp4l1. Moreover, only aromatic amino acid substitutions at position 36 in Pcp4l1 allow binding. Thus, despite their sequence similarities PEP‐19 and Pcp4l1 have distinct properties with the latter harboring an element that can functionally suppress an IQ motif. We speculate Pcp4l1 may be a latent calmodulin inhibitor regulated by post‐translational modification and/or co‐factor interactions.
A celebration of Alan Turing's achievements in the year of his centenary
Authors: Haeusler Edward Hermann
Published: March 2012

In this paper, we review some of the main achievements and contributions of Alan Turing to Computer Science and related areas.
What would 5‐HT do? Regional diversity of 5‐HT1 receptor modulation of primary afferent neurotransmission
Authors: Connor Mark
Published: March 2012

5‐HT (serotonin) is a significant modulator of sensory input to the CNS, but the only analgesics that selectively target G‐protein‐coupled 5‐HT receptors are highly specific for treatment of headache. Two recent papers in BJP shed light on this puzzling situation by showing that primary afferent neurotransmission to the superficial layers of the spinal and trigeminal dorsal is inhibited by different subtypes of the 5‐HT1 receptor – 5‐HT1B(and 1D) in the trigeminal dorsal horn and 5‐HT1A in the spinal dorsal horn. The inputs being studied probably include nociceptive afferents, and the similarities of the methods employed in the two studies minimize the possibility that the different findings are an experimental artefact. Rather, the findings raise interesting questions about the possible anatomical or functional basis for the apparent regional selectivity of 5‐HT1 receptor actions, and whether these differences could be exploited for therapy. The results also emphasize the relative lack of information we have about the molecular details of the pro‐ or anti‐nociceptive actions of 5‐HT itself on primary afferent neurotransmission.

LINKED ARTICLE This article is a commentary on Choi et al., pp. 356–367 of this issue. To view this paper visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1476‐5381.2012.01964.x
The Short Inventory of Problems—Modified for Drug Use (SIP‐DU): Validity in a Primary Care Sample
Authors: Allensworth‐Davies Donald , Cheng Debbie M. , Smith Peter C. , Samet Jeffrey H. , Saitz Richard
Published: March 2012

Primary care physicians can help drug‐dependent patients mitigate adverse drug use consequences; instruments validated in primary care to measure these consequences would aid in this effort. This study evaluated the validity of the Short Inventory of Problems—Alcohol and Drugs modified for Drug Use (SIP‐DU) among subjects recruited from a primary care clinic (n= 106). SIP‐DU internal consistency was evaluated using Cronbach's alphas, convergent validity by correlating the total SIP‐DU score with the DAST‐10, and construct validity by analyzing the factor structure. The SIP‐DU demonstrated high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha for overall scale .95, subscales .72–.90) comparable with other SIP versions and correlated well with the DAST‐10 (r= .70). Confirmatory factor analysis suggested an unacceptable fit of previously proposed factors; exploratory factor analyses suggested a single factor of drug use consequences. The SIP‐DU offers primary care clinicians a valid and practical assessment tool for drug use consequences. (Am J Addict 2012;21:257–262)
PURIFICATION OF A SEX‐SPECIFIC LECTIN INVOLVED IN GAMETE BINDING OF AGLAOTHAMNION CALLOPHYLLIDICOLA (RHODOPHYTA)1
Authors: Shim Eunyoung , Shim Junbo , Klochkova Tatyana A. , Han Jong Won , Kim Gwang Hoon
Published: March 2012

Egg and sperm binding and correct recognition is the first stage for successful fertilization. In red algae, spermatial attachment to female trichogynes is mediated by a specific binding between the lectin(s) distributed on the surface of trichogyne and the complementary carbohydrates on the spermatial surface. A female‐specific lectin was isolated from Aglaothamnion callophyllidicola by agarose‐bound fetuin affinity chromatography. Two proteins, 50 and 14 kDa, eluted from the fetuin column were separated using a native‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis method and subjected to a gamete binding assay. The 50 kDa protein, which blocked spermatial binding to female trichogynes, was used for further analysis. Internal amino acid sequence of the 50 kDa protein was analyzed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption/ionization‐mass spectrometry and degenerated primers were designed based on the information. A full‐length cDNA encoding the lectin was obtained using rapid amplification of cDNA ends polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The cDNA was 1552 bp in length and coded for a protein of 450 amino acids with a deduced molecular mass of 50.7 kDa, which agreed well with the protein data. Real‐time PCR analysis showed that this protein was up‐regulated about 10‐fold in female thalli. As the protein was novel and showed no significant homology to any known proteins, it was designated Rhodobindin.