bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifungal Activity of (KW)n or (RW)n Peptide against Fusarium solani and Fusarium oxysporum
Authors: Gopal Ramamourthy , Na Hyungjong , Seo Chang , Park Yoonkyung
Published: November 2012

The presence of lysine (Lys) or arginine (Arg) and tryptophan (Trp) are important for the antimicrobial effects of cationic peptides. Therefore, we designed and synthesized a series of antimicrobial peptides with various numbers of Lys (or Arg) and Trp repeats [(KW and RW)n-NH2, where n equals 2, 3, 4, or 5]. Antifungal activities of these peptides increased with chain length. Light microscopy demonstrated that longer peptides (n = 4, 5) strongly inhibited in vitro growth of Fusarium solani, and Fusarium oxysporum, at 4–32 μM. Furthermore, longer peptides displayed potent fungicidal activities against a variety of agronomical important filamentous fungi, including F. solani and F. oxysporum, at their minimal inhibitory concentrations (MICs). However, RW series peptides showed slightly higher fungicidal activities than KW peptides against the two strains. Taken together, the results of this study indicate that these short peptides would be good candidates for use as synthetic or transgenic antifungal agents.
Nucleoside Triphosphates — Building Blocks for the Modification of Nucleic Acids
Authors: Hollenstein Marcel
Published: November 2012

Nucleoside triphosphates are moldable entities that can easily be functionalized at various locations. The enzymatic polymerization of these modified triphosphate analogues represents a versatile platform for the facile and mild generation of (highly) functionalized nucleic acids. Numerous modified triphosphates have been utilized in a broad palette of applications spanning from DNA-tagging and -labeling to the generation of catalytic nucleic acids. This review will focus on the recent progress made in the synthesis of modified nucleoside triphosphates as well as on the understanding of the mechanisms underlying their polymerase acceptance. In addition, the usefulness of chemically altered dNTPs in SELEX and related methods of in vitro selection will be highlighted, with a particular emphasis on the generation of modified DNA enzymes (DNAzymes) and DNA-based aptamers.
The Potential of the South American Leaf Blight as a Biological Agent
Authors: Onokpise Oghenekome , Louime Clifford
Published: November 2012

When asked by the Department of Homeland Security to create potential terrorism scenarios, even “Out of the Box Thinkers” initially failed to come up with the following scenario. Oil tankers, refineries, nuclear plants, etc., are obvious potential terrorists’ targets, and adequate measures are being taken to protect them. However, what if the target were to be a non-food commodity product, such as natural rubber tree plantations located in places as remote as southeast Asian countries like Thailand or Indonesia? Would it be of concern? At first thought “maybe not”, but think again. What could the release of a deadly microorganism (fungus/virus/bacteria) in a rubber tree plantation in Indonesia, Malaysia or Thailand possibly mean to you or the world economy?
Le holding onirique dans le néogroupe famille-thérapeutes
Authors: Joubert Christiane
Published: November 2012

Résumé « Le holding onirique dans le néogroupe famille-thérapeutes. » À partir des travaux de J. Guillaumin qui souligne que le rêve est le lieu primordial de la communication inconsciente, A. Ruffiot développe la notion de holding onirique familial. En proposant l’utilisation du rêve comme mode de communication et d’échange, dans un creuset groupal familial en interfantasmatisation, il s’est aussi appuyé sur les travaux de Didier Anzieu. Le rêve est alors abordé dans la transsubjectivité et comme miroir groupal. La polyphonie du rêve de René Kaës continue à explorer ces pistes. L’auteure illustre le holding onirique croisé famille-thérapeutes au sein d’une thérapie familiale psychanalytique.
Un «rêve prémonitoire» au cours d'une thérapie familiale psychanalytique : mise en marche d'un processus associatif
Authors: Pilorge Didier , Brégégère Brigitte
Published: November 2012

Résumé « Un rêve prémonitoire et son traitement dans le cadre familial. » À travers un exemple clinique les auteurs s’attachent à montrer comment les rêves prémonitoires partagés se nourrissent de l’histoire et des traumatismes familiaux et comment les failles de l’appareil psychique groupal favorisent leur apparition.
Polyphonie et polytopie du rêve
Authors: Kaës René
Published: November 2012

Résumé « Polyphonie et polytopie du rêve. L’espace onirique commun. » L’auteur expose ses recherches sur le rêve et sur l’espace onirique commun et partagé dans le cadre du dispositif psychanalytique de groupe. Il distingue trois espaces de la réalité psychique à la fois spécifiques et articulés les uns aux autres : celui du groupe, celui des liens intersubjectifs et celui du sujet singulier. Il situe ses recherches par rapport à celles de D. Anzieu et de A. Ruffiot sur les rapports du rêve, du groupe et de la famille. Il explore les propriétés de l’espace onirique commun et partagé entre plusieurs rêveurs. Le rêve se forme à partir d’un double ombilic, celui de l’inconscient du rêveur et celui de l’espace psychique groupal. L’analyse du rêve dans les groupes le conduit à formuler une hypothèse plus générale : le rêve est polyphonique, il agence plusieurs voix, plusieurs scènes, plusieurs destinataires. Dans la cure comme dans les groupes, il suppose une alliance inconsciente entre les rêveurs.
Remarques sur la phylogenèse, une théorie mythique des liens familiaux
Authors: Houssier Florian , Truffaut Joséphine , Azincourt Flavie
Published: November 2012

Résumé « Remarques sur la phylogenèse, une théorie mythique des liens familiaux. » Cet article propose une relecture de la fiction phylogénétique freudienne sur la horde primitive, à la lumière des enjeux spécifiques du lien père-fils au moment du meurtre parricide. Le fantasme infanticide-parricide, inscrit au cœur de la relation archaïque au père primitif, permet notamment d’envisager la fonction transformatrice de l’acte dans la constitution du père œdipien intériorisé. Ce mythe freudien ouvre sur une théorie de la famille dans le sens où l’image du père, entre élaboration œdipienne et fétichisation, est régulièrement mise au travail par notre société contemporaine.
« Le pivot géographique de l'histoire » : une lecture critique
Authors: Lacoste Yves
Published: November 2012

Cet article est une analyse critique et précise du célèbre article de Mackinder « The geographical pivot of History ». Alors qu’il n’a jamais employé le terme géopolitique, Mackinder est pourtant toujours considéré comme le fondateur de la géopolitique. C’est pourquoi une lecture critique de son article s’impose. Sa notoriété repose sur l’emploi du terme heartland considéré, de nos jours, comme le concept central de sa théorie, qui évoque une région qui est le cœur même du territoire d’une nation, mais il prend aussi, plus loin dans le texte, la signification de « région centrale » connotée alors à l’idée d’Eurasie, espace beaucoup plus vaste que celui de région centrale. Le second terme, considéré comme l’autre concept majeur de la théorie de Mackinder, est celui de pivot. Mais ce terme, appliqué aux immenses plaines d’Eurasie, fait problème, celles-ci ne pouvant logiquement être considérées comme un pivot. Pour expliquer la puissance de l’Empire russe, Mackinder accorde donc la plus grande importance à une donnée de la géologie et de la géographie physique – l’étendue de la plaque eurasiatique. Il tend à minimiser le rôle des structures politiques et militaires qui ont rendu possibles la conquête et le contrôle depuis trois siècles de cet immense territoire, en tentant de l’étendre encore. La thèse de Mackinder est donc étroitement déterministe et somme toute assez rudimentaire.
Analyse géopolitique des enjeux d'une politique de puissance : le cas de la science et de l'innovation en Russie
Authors: Limonier Kévin
Published: November 2012

Depuis quelques années, la science et l’innovation sont devenues pour les autorités russes une préoccupation majeure qui touche à l’avenir économique du pays. Mais, au-delà du fait que la Russie cherche aujourd’hui des moyens de sortir de l’ornière énergétique en misant sur une « économie de la connaissance », la science et l’innovation constituent également une question brûlante sur le plan politique. Après une décennie de mise en scène d’un renouveau du pays comme grande puissance, la Russie se trouve actuellement confrontée à une série d’enjeux internes qui questionnent le devenir d’un projet de puissance qui s’appuie sur un patrimoine matériel et identitaire issu de l’Union soviétique. Le secteur scientifique n’échappant pas à cette règle, c’est à travers celui-ci que cet article se propose de questionner les modalités d’une mise en scène politique et économique qui s’ancre dans le territoire sur la base de divers réseaux de pouvoir et représentations du renouveau qui entrent parfois en conflit.
Revisión del género Venustoraphidia Aspöck & Aspöck, 1968 de la Península Ibérica (Insecta, Raphidioptera)
Authors: Monserrat V. J. , Papenberg D.
Published: November 2012

Se revisa el género Venustoraphidia Aspöck & Aspöck, 1968 de la Península Ibérica. Hasta la fecha, este género sólo estaba representado por dos especies conocidas de Europa: Venustoraphidia nigricollis (Albarda, 1891) de Europa central y oriental, y su vicariante Venustoraphidia renate (Aspöck & Aspöck, 1974) del Peloponeso. El género es nuevo para la Península Ibérica, donde está representado por una tercera y nueva especie, vicariante de V. nigricollis al otro lado del Mediterráneo: Venustoraphidia conviventibus n. sp. Se anotan todas las referencias bibliográficas del género Venustoraphidia, así como los datos conocidos sobre la morfología externa, genital, biología, estadios juveniles, fenología y distribución de las dos especies de este género anteriormente conocidas. Se incluye una clave de identificación de las especies citadas, incluyendo la nueva especie presente en la fauna de la Península Ibérica. Para concluir se realiza un somero análisis biogeográfico sobre la distribución de estas tres especies en base a datos paleo-climáticos y a un presunto aislamiento bidireccional hacia el este/oeste de elementos centroeuropeos, quedando aisladas poblaciones en la Península del Peloponeso, al otro lado del istmo de Corinto, y en la Península Ibérica, al otro lado de los Pirineos.
Characterization of seed oils from different varieties of watermelon [Citrullus lanatus (Thunb.)] from Pakistan
Authors: Raziq S. , Anwar F. , Mahmood Z. , Shahid S. A. , Nadeem R.
Published: November 2012

This paper reports the physicochemical characteristics of the seed oils from different varieties of watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) cultivated in Pakistan, namely Sugar Baby, Q-F-12, D-W-H-21 and Red Circle-1885. The oil and crude protein contents from watermelon seeds, within the range of 28.25 to 35.65% and 20.50 to 35.00%, respectively, varied significantly (p < 0.05) among the varieties tested. The levels of moisture, ash, and crude fiber in the seeds tested were found to be 2.16-3.24%, 1.95-3.42% and 4.29-6.60%, respectively. The physicohemical characteristics of the extracted oils were: free fatty acid contents (1.17-2.10% as oleic acid), iodine value (97.10-116.32 g of I2 100g-1 of oil), saponification index (190.20-205.57 mg KOH g-1 of oil), unsaponifiable matter (0.54-0.82%) and color (1.12-4.30 R + 12.20-33.40 Y). The oils revealed a reasonable oxidative parameter range as depicted by the determinations of specific extinction at 232 and 270 nm (2.90-4.40 and 2.05- 3.09, respectively), p-anisidine value (5.60-7.70) and peroxide value (2.90-5.06 meqO2 kg-1 of oil). Linoleic acid was the major fatty acid found in all the seed oils with contributions of 45.30-51.80% of the total fatty acids (FA). Other fatty acids detected were known to be oleic acid (20.2- 23.5%), palmitic acid (15.1-16.9%) and stearic acid (11.5- 14.4%). The contents of α- and δ-tocopherol in the oils accounted for 120.6-195.6 and 9.1-58.3 mg kg-1, respectively. The physicochemical attributes of the watermelon seed oils showed a wider variation among the varieties tested. The results of the present study indicate that the seeds of the tested watermelon varieties from Pakistan are a potential source of high-linoleic oil and thus can be explored for commercial use and value addition.
La collection de portraits gravés du roi Louis-Philippe au château de Versailles
Authors: Delalex Hélène
Published: November 2012

Le château de Versailles a acquis en 1948 soixante-quinze albums de portraits qui avaient été patiemment constitués par le roi Louis-Philippe pendant plus de vingt-cinq ans, comprenant plus de seize mille gravures ordonnées par règnes et par États. D’après les contemporains, il s’agissait de « la plus belle collection de portraits gravés qui existât au monde ». Si la constitution de cet ensemble a souvent été attribuée à Jean Vatout, premier bibliothécaire du roi, il semble que c’est surtout à Louis-Philippe que l’on doit ce vaste projet qui a commencé en 1825 et qui fut interrompu par les troubles révolutionnaires de 1848. Entré dans les collections de Versailles un siècle plus tard, cet ensemble, l’un des rares encore conservés dans des albums, est comparable par sa qualité et son ampleur aux grandes collections aujourd’hui dispersées qui sont à l’origine de la série N2 du département des Estampes et de la photographie de la Bibliothèque nationale de France. La série couvre une vaste période, de Pharamond, premier roi légendaire de la dynastie mérovingienne, à Louis-Philippe. Dans ce véritable panthéon de l’histoire mondiale, les monarques figurent auprès des grands personnages de leur temps – ministres, magistrats, ecclésiastiques et savants, hommes de lettres et artistes. Cet ensemble remarquable dont l’ambition historique l’emporte sur les qualités artistiques, témoignant de la passion du roi pour l’histoire, doit, bien entendu, être rapproché du musée dédié à toutes les gloires de la France inauguré par le souverain au château de Versailles en 1837. La totalité des feuilles est désormais consultable sur la banque d’images du Centre de recherche du château de Versailles.
L’appartement de Louis-Philippe Ier au Grand Trianon
Authors: Pierret Lucile
Published: November 2012

Le palais du Grand Trianon renferme de nombreux trésors, qu’il s’agisse du mobilier, des décors ou des objets d’art, autant de témoins artistiques et historiques du passage des différents souverains qui y ont vécu. Parmi ceux-ci, Louis-Philippe fut le dernier à s’être investi dans les travaux d’aménagement et d’ameublement du palais, afin d’y installer convenablement sa nombreuse famille : son épouse la reine Marie-Amélie, sa sœur Madame Adélaïde, les princes et les princesses. Au milieu du xixe siècle, la monarchie de Juillet fut le témoin de la mutation d’une société dont les modes de vie et les goûts – influencés par une industrialisation croissante – aspiraient à plus de confort, d’intimité et de fonctionnalité. Les aménagements de Louis-Philippe au Grand Trianon répondaient à ces exigences et, en particulier, ceux de son appartement privé. Par la nature même et la fonction des pièces qui le composaient, on peut en effet espérer y déceler une personnalité, des prédilections et des exigences dans l’ameublement, la distribution et le lien établi volontairement entre les pièces. Mais l’étude de cet appartement révèle bien des contradictions et des dilemmes constants entre la rupture dans le mode de vie d’un roi – le seul à abandonner les appartements officiels de l’aile droite pour s’installer dans l’ancienne aile des offices – et la continuité historique dans le choix du mobilier.
Suppressors of Cytokine Signaling Promote Fas-Induced Apoptosis through Downregulation of NF-κB and Mitochondrial Bfl-1 in Leukemic T Cells
Authors: Oh Jiyoung , Kim Seol-Hee , Ahn Sinae , Lee Choong-Eun
Published: November 2012

Suppressors of cytokine signaling (SOCS) are known as negative regulators of cytokine- and growth factor–induced signal transduction. Recently they have emerged as multifunctional proteins with regulatory roles in inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer. We have recently reported that SOCS1 has antiapoptotic functions against the TNF-α– and the hydrogen peroxide–induced T cell apoptosis through the induction of thioredoxin, which protects protein tyrosine phosphatases and attenuates Jaks. In this study, we report that SOCS, on the contrary, promote death receptor Fas-mediated T cell apoptosis. The proapoptotic effect of SOCS1 was manifested with increases in Fas-induced caspase-8 activation, truncated Bid production, and mitochondrial dysfunctions. Both caspase-8 inhibitor c-Flip and mitochondrial antiapoptotic factor Bfl-1 were significantly reduced by SOCS1. These proapoptotic responses were not associated with changes in Jak or p38/Jnk activities but were accompanied with downregulation of NF-κB and NF-κB–dependent reporter gene expression. Indeed, p65 degradation via ubiquitination was accelerated in SOCS1 overexpressing cells, whereas it was attenuated in SOCS1 knockdown cells. With high NF-κB levels, the SOCS1-ablated cells displayed resistance against Fas-induced apoptosis, which was abrogated upon siBfl-1 transfection. The results indicate that the suppression of NF-κB–dependent induction of prosurvival factors, such as Bfl-1 and c-Flip, may serve as a mechanism for SOCS action to promote Fas-mediated T cell apoptosis. SOCS3 exhibited a similar proapoptotic function. Because both SOCS1 and SOCS3 are induced upon TCR stimulation, SOCS would play a role in activation-induced cell death by sensitizing activated T cells toward Fas-mediated apoptosis to maintain T cell homeostasis.
A Combination of Local Inflammation and Central Memory T Cells Potentiates Immunotherapy in the Skin
Authors: Fiorenza Salvatore , Kenna Tony J. , Comerford Iain , McColl Shaun , Steptoe Raymond J. , Leggatt Graham R. , Frazer Ian H.
Published: November 2012

Adoptive T cell therapy uses the specificity of the adaptive immune system to target cancer and virally infected cells. Yet the mechanism and means by which to enhance T cell function are incompletely described, especially in the skin. In this study, we use a murine model of immunotherapy to optimize cell-mediated immunity in the skin. We show that in vitro–derived central but not effector memory-like T cells bring about rapid regression of skin-expressing cognate Ag as a transgene in keratinocytes. Local inflammation induced by the TLR7 receptor agonist imiquimod subtly yet reproducibly decreases time to skin graft rejection elicited by central but not effector memory T cells in an immunodeficient mouse model. Local CCL4, a chemokine liberated by TLR7 agonism, similarly enhances central memory T cell function. In this model, IL-2 facilitates the development in vivo of effector function from central memory but not effector memory T cells. In a model of T cell tolerogenesis, we further show that adoptively transferred central but not effector memory T cells can give rise to successful cutaneous immunity, which is dependent on a local inflammatory cue in the target tissue at the time of adoptive T cell transfer. Thus, adoptive T cell therapy efficacy can be enhanced if CD8+ T cells with a central memory T cell phenotype are transferred, and IL-2 is present with contemporaneous local inflammation.
Leukocyte Function Antigen-1, Kindlin-3, and Calcium Flux Orchestrate Neutrophil Recruitment during Inflammation
Authors: Dixit Neha , Kim Min-Ho , Rossaint Jan , Yamayoshi Itsukyo , Zarbock Alexander , Simon Scott I.
Published: November 2012

Neutrophil arrest and migration on inflamed endothelium involves a conformational shift in CD11a/CD18 (leukocyte function antigen-1; LFA-1) to a high-affinity and clustered state that determines the strength and lifetime of bond formation with ICAM-1. Cytoskeletal adapter proteins Kindlin-3 and Talin-1 anchor clustered LFA-1 to the cytoskeleton and facilitate the transition from neutrophil rolling to arrest. We recently reported that tensile force acts on LFA-1 bonds inducing their colocalization with Orai1, the predominant membrane store operated Ca2+ channel that cooperates with the endoplasmic reticulum to elicit cytosolic flux. Because Kindlin-3 was recently reported to initiate LFA-1 clustering in lymphocytes, we hypothesized that it cooperates with Orai1 and LFA-1 in signaling local Ca2+ flux necessary for shear-resistant neutrophil arrest. Using microfluidic flow channels combined with total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy, we applied defined shear stress to low- or high-affinity LFA-1 and imaged the spatiotemporal regulation of bond formation with Kindlin-3 recruitment and Ca2+ influx. Orai1 and Kindlin-3 genes were silenced in neutrophil-like HL-60 cells to assess their respective roles in this process. Kindlin-3 was enriched within focal clusters of high-affinity LFA-1, which promoted physical linkage with Orai1. This macromolecular complex functioned to amplify inside-out Ca2+ signaling in response to IL-8 stimulation by catalyzing an increased density of Talin-1 and consolidating LFA-1 clusters within sites of contact with ICAM-1. In this manner, neutrophils use focal adhesions as mechanosensors that convert shear stress–mediated tensile force into local bursts of Ca2+ influx that catalyze cytoskeletal engagement and an adhesion-strengthened migratory phenotype.
Cutting Edge: FAS (CD95) Mediates Noncanonical IL-1β and IL-18 Maturation via Caspase-8 in an RIP3-Independent Manner
Authors: Bossaller Lukas , Chiang Ping-I , Schmidt-Lauber Christian , Ganesan Sandhya , Kaiser William J. , Rathinam Vijay A. K. , Mocarski Edward S. , Subramanian Deepa , Green Douglas R. , Silverman Neal , Fitzgerald Katherine A. , Marshak-Rothstein Ann , Latz Eicke
Published: November 2012

Fas, a TNF family receptor, is activated by the membrane protein Fas ligand expressed on various immune cells. Fas signaling triggers apoptosis and induces inflammatory cytokine production. Among the Fas-induced cytokines, the IL-1β family cytokines require proteolysis to gain biological activity. Inflammasomes, which respond to pathogens and danger signals, cleave IL-1β cytokines via caspase-1. However, the mechanisms by which Fas regulates IL-1β activation remain unresolved. In this article, we demonstrate that macrophages exposed to TLR ligands upregulate Fas, which renders them responsive to receptor engagement by Fas ligand. Fas signaling activates caspase-8 in macrophages and dendritic cells, leading to the maturation of IL-1β and IL-18 independently of inflammasomes or RIP3. Hence, Fas controls a novel noncanonical IL-1β activation pathway in myeloid cells, which could play an essential role in inflammatory processes, tumor surveillance, and control of infectious diseases.
Systemic Flagellin Immunization Stimulates Mucosal CD103+ Dendritic Cells and Drives Foxp3+ Regulatory T Cell and IgA Responses in the Mesenteric Lymph Node
Authors: Flores-Langarica Adriana , Marshall Jennifer L. , Hitchcock Jessica , Cook Charlotte , Jobanputra Jonathan , Bobat Saeeda , Ross Ewan A. , Coughlan Ruth E. , Henderson Ian R. , Uematsu Satoshi , Akira Shizuo , Cunningham Adam F.
Published: November 2012

Mucosal immunity is poorly activated after systemic immunization with protein Ags. Nevertheless, induction of mucosal immunity in such a manner would be an attractive and simple way to overcome the intrinsic difficulties in delivering Ag to such sites. Flagellin from Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium (FliC) can impact markedly on host immunity, in part via its recognition by TLR5. In this study, we show that systemic immunization with soluble FliC (sFliC) drives distinct immune responses concurrently in the mesenteric lymph nodes (MLN) and the spleen after i.p. and s.c. immunization. In the MLN, but not the spleen, sFliC drives a TLR5-dependent recruitment of CD103+ dendritic cells (DCs), which correlates with a diminution in CD103+ DC numbers in the lamina propria. In the MLN, CD103+ DCs carry Ag and are the major primers of endogenous and transgenic T cell priming. A key consequence of these interactions with CD103+ DCs in the MLN is an increase in local regulatory T cell differentiation. In parallel, systemic sFliC immunization results in a pronounced switching of FliC-specific B cells to IgA in the MLN but not elsewhere. Loss of TLR5 has more impact on MLN than splenic Ab responses, reflected in an ablation of IgA, but not IgG, serum Ab titers. Therefore, systemic sFliC immunization targets CD103+ DCs and drives distinct mucosal T and B cell responses. This offers a potential “Trojan horse” approach to modulate mucosal immunity by systemically immunizing with sFliC.
Life cycle assessment: an application to poplar for energy cultivated in Italy
Authors: Bacenetti Jacopo , González-García Sara , Mena Aira , Fiala Marco
Published: November 2012

The development of the bioenergy sector has led to an increasing interest in energy crops. Short rotation coppices (SRC) are forestry management systems in which fast-growing tree species are produced under intensive cultivation practices to obtain high wood chips yields. In Italy, most SRC plantations consist of poplar biomass-clones. SRC plantations can be carried out with different management systems with diverse cutting times; consequently, the cultivation system can be crucial for attaining high yields depending on: i) short and ii) medium cutting frequency. Nowadays, the larger part of Italian SRC is based on 2-year cutting short rotation forestry (SRF) but the best quality of wood chips is linked to 5-year plantation medium rotation forestry (MRF). This work compares an SRF and an MRF poplar plantation located in the Po Valley in northern Italy. In particular, a life cycle assessment (LCA) was carried out to evaluate their energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions. The LCA software SimaPro 7.10 was used to create the LCA model and to assure an accurate impact assessment calculation. The analysis shows several differences between MRF and SRF in terms of fertiliser requirements and intensive agricultural activities. Results highlight that MRF produces a more sustainable wood chip production than SRF according to energy and environmental concerns. Furthermore, hot spots were identified in both SRF and MRF due to the high energy consumption and the related emissions. These hot spots were: i) mineral fertilisation; ii) mechanical weed-control; iii) harvesting and biomass transport.
Effect of different technologies and animal manures on solid-liquid separation efficiencies
Authors: Cocolo Giorgia , Curnis Silvia , Hjorth Maibritt , Provolo Giorgio
Published: November 2012

Solid-liquid separation is a widely used manure treatment option. However, little information is available to predict separator performance in a specific operating condition. This study investigates the effect on the separation efficiency of animal species (cattle and swine), use of flocculants, and separator construction and operating characteristics (filtration, pressurised filtration, settling and centrifugation). Using data available from published experiments, we evaluated correlations of the separation efficiencies with the physical and chemical characteristics of the inlet slurries (dry matter, total nitrogen, ammoniacal nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium). Dry matter concentration of the input manure was found to be the best parameter used to calculate and validate regression equations. Regres sions for the operating conditions of 7 of the 14 subgroups evaluated were significant (P<0.05) for at least one parameter. Pressurised filtration seems to be the process best represented by these regressions that can predict dry matter and nitrogen efficiency with relative root mean squared errors of less than 50%. However, they could only be used for some of the parameters and separation techniques. Therefore, it was not possible to use the available experimental data to define and validate empirical predictive models for all the conditions. Specific studies are needed to define more precise and physically-based models.
An investigation into the knowledge mothers have about children’s growth charts
Authors: Nombe E.
Published: November 2012

A study of the amount of knowledge mothers have regarding children‘s growth charts was carried out on mothers with children under the age of five years in Bophuthatswana during June and July 1989. 218 Mothers who attended the Well Baby Clinic were interviewed to assess their understanding and interpretation of the growth chart. Results were disappointing and recommendations are made.
Companionship by a lay labour supporter to modify the clinical birth environment: long-term effects on mother and child
Authors: Nikodem V.C. , Nolte A.G.W. , Wolman W. , Gülmezoglu A.M. , Hofmeyr G.J.
Published: November 2012

The birth of a child and adaptation to motherhood is generally accepted to be a stressful life event. During this time women may experience significant physiological, phycological and emotional changes in their lives.
The experiences and perceptions of nursing service managers regarding transformation of health services in selected provincial academic health complexes
Authors: Buys R , Muller M
Published: November 2012

Nursing service managers are challenged with enormous transformations within the new political dispensation in South Africa. The objective of the study was to explore and describe the experiences and perceptions of the nursing service managers regarding transformation of health services in selected Provincial Academic Health Complexes. A qualitative, exploratory, descriptive and phenomenological design was employed utilising focus group interviews and narratives as methods of data collection. After content analysis was performed, results were grouped into management of health service transformation and quality of patient care in relation to the levels of the organisation. The levels in the organisation are individual level, group level, departmental level and organisational level. Positive and negative experiences and perceptions were identified.
Accessibility of adolescent health services
Authors: Richter S
Published: November 2012

Adolescents represent a large proportion of the population. As they mature and become sexually active, they face more serious health risks. Most face these risks with too little factual information, too little guidance about sexual responsibility and multiple barriers to accessing health care. A typical descriptive and explanatory design was used to determine what the characteristics of an accessible adolescent health service should be. Important results and conclusions that were reached indicate that the adolescent want a medical doctor and a registered nurse to be part of the health team treating them and they want to be served in the language of their choice. Family planning, treatment of sexually transmitted diseases and psychiatric services for the prevention of suicide are services that should be included in an adolescent accessible health service. The provision of health education concerning sexual transmitted diseases and AIDS is a necessity. The service should be available thought out the week (included Saturdays) and within easy reach. It is recommended that minor changes in existing services be made, that will contribute towards making a health delivery service an adolescent accessible service. An adolescent accessible health service can in turn make a real contribution to the community’s efforts to improve the health of its adolescents and can prove to be a rewarding professional experience to the health worker.
Traditional healers and cancer prevention
Authors: Steyn M , Muller A
Published: November 2012

The increase in the incidence of cancer in South Africa necessitates the expansion of preventative efforts. This study shows that traditional healers in Atteridgeville are consulted by a range of people in their communities, have a basic knowledge of cancer, provide health education to their patients and are willing to participate in cancer preventative strategies. They are therefore ideally suited to augment the services of westernized health care workers. The issue of professionalization is explored and a procedure is suggested whereby the training of traditional healers can be enhanced so as to facilitate their professionalization and their collaboration with other health care workers in the prevention of cancer.
Exploring the trauma care nurse’s lived experiences of dealing with the violent death of their clients
Authors: Brysiewicz P , Bhengu BR
Published: November 2012

A phenomenological approach was used to explore the phenomenon, violent death, from the perspective of trauma care nurses working in Kwa-Zulu Natal. Three relatively unstructured interviews were undertaken on an individual basis with each lasting thirty to forty-five minutes long. The researchers applied the principle o f theoretical saturation and a total of seven participants from three levelone trauma units were included in the study. All the interviews were tape recorded and transcribed, and manual analysis, as well as a qualitative software package - NUD*IST - was used to identify experiential themes within the data. The trauma care nurses conceptualized violent death as being sudden, unpredictable, senseless and not as dignified or peaceful as a non-violent death. A number of issues that made confronting violent death difficult were raised and the trauma care nurses described a number of emotional and physical reactions that they experienced due to exposure to these situations. A number of recommendations were suggested for the trauma care nurses, nursing management, nurse educators and for future research in an attempt to prevent the loss of these valuable nurses from the nursing profession.
Perceptions of sexually transmitted diseases among teenagers
Authors: Diale DM , Roos SD
Published: November 2012

An ex p lo ra to ry d e sc rip tiv e study was u n d e rtak en , focussing on sexually transmitted diseases (STD) among teenagers. The aim of the study was to explore and describe the possible reasons for the high rate of sexually transmitted diseases in teenagers. The perceptions of teenagers and community nurses regarding sexually transmitted disease among teenagers involved in the teenage clinic in a specific predominantly black area were assessed. Twenty teenagers and five community nurses were participants in the study. Two focus group interviews were conducted with teenagers and community nurses. It can be concluded that the attitudes of community nurses may have an influence on the high rate of sexually transmitted diseases among teenagers. The knowledge o f the teenagers about sexually transmitted diseases is often based on myths and misconceptions which could be intensified by the community nurse. The recommendations made are that the education standards of all community nurses should be reviewed and adapted to meet the needs of teenagers attending the teenage health services. The policy on in-service training must be reviewed and monitored. Community nurses’ intensive training on teenage health service delivery and sexually transmitted diseases services should be in accordance with the principles of Primary Health Care. Community nurses need to attend intensive courses on interpersonal skills specifically related to teenagers. Selection procedures for recruiting community nurses to attend to teenagers specifically should be researched. Teenagers should be involved in planning programs and the teenage clinic should be evaluated frequently to improve the standards. The availability of adequate teenage health services can result in a decrease in sexually transmitted diseases among teenagers.
Errors in anthropometric measurements in neonates and infants
Authors: Harrison D , Harker H , V Heese H D , Berelowitz J
Published: November 2012

The accuracy of methods used in Cape Town hospitals and clinics for the measurement of weight, length and age in neonates and infants became suspect during a survey of 12 local authority and 5 private sector clinics in 1994-1995 (Harrison et al. 1998). A descriptive prospective study to determine the accuracy of these methods in neonates at four maternity hospitals [ 2 public and 2 private] and infants at four child health clinics of the Cape Town City Council was carried out. The main outcome measures were an assessment of three currently used methods namely to measure crown-heel length with a measuring board, a mat and a tape measure; a comparison of weight differences when an infant is fully clothed, naked and in napkin only; and the differences in age estimated by calendar dates and by a specially designed electronic calculator. The results showed that the current methods which are used to measure infants in Cape Town vary widely from one institution to another. Many measurements are inaccurate and there is a real need for uniformity and accuracy. This can only be implemented by an effective education program so as to ensure that accurate measurements are used in monitoring the health of young children in Cape Town and elsewhere.
The knowledge and practices of primary care givers regarding home-based care of HIV/AIDS children in Blantyre (Malawi).
Authors: Zimba EW , Mclnerney PA
Published: November 2012

Knowledge is one of the major factors that promotes adherence to treatment regimens. With the current trends worldwide of home and community-based services for the management of HIV/AIDS patients, knowledge of care givers about the home care of these patients will determine the success of the programs. The purpose of this descriptive study was to explore the knowledge and practices of primary care givers of HIV/AIDS children in the provision of home care services. In this study an attempt was made to describe the factors which are associated with knowledge. Thirty-six primary care givers were randomly selected from three major home based care centres in Blantyre City, Malawi. A structured interview schedule was used to collect data. Data were analysed manually and by computer, using the Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). The findings revealed a gap in knowledge since in many instances taking a child to the hospital for the management of minor ailments was the action of choice, thus perpetuating the problem of overburdening hospital resources. Lack of prior preparation for home based care was found to be the major factor contributing to the lack of knowledge. Recommendations proposed include the need to put into place mechanisms that will ensure that all the primary care givers are adequately prepared in good time for home care service. Ensuring regular home visits was also thought to be helpful for efficient and effective supervision and reinforcement of information given to fill the gaps in knowledge wherever necessary.
The role of the community nurse on health committees
Authors: Taylor V M , Gross E J , Roos S D
Published: November 2012

With the changes in health care occurring in South Africa, new functions concerning the community nurse are being presented. The goal of the study was to explore and describe the role of the community nurse in health committees. An explorative, descriptive design was used and the empirical part was undertaken within the context of a metropolitan local authority. After conducting a literature study, six major roles of the community nurse on health committees were identified. After that a questionnaire was presented to community nurses to explore and describe their perceptions about the role of the community nurse on health committees. An interview schedule based on the literature study was drafted for presentation to selected members of health committees. Lastly guidelines describing the role of the community nurse on health committees were developed based on the findings of the study.
A job analysis of selected health workers in a district health system in KwaZulu Natal - Part one: Job analysis of nurses in hospital settings
Authors: Uys L.R.
Published: November 2012

The aim of this descriptive survey was to do a job analysis of different categories of nurses in a District Health System in order to clarify job expectations, describe current practice of nurses in hospitals and clinics and to make recommendations about skills mix in district services.
Health care needs of older people living permanently in a residential home setting in Gauteng
Authors: Chabeli MM
Published: November 2012

This article reviews some of the prevailing health needs of elderly people living permanently in a residential old age home. A qualitative, exploratory and descriptive design was employed. Twenty-one black elderly people were purposively selected to participate in a focus group interview session for the purpose of describing their perception of their health care needs. From descriptive content analysis, three main data sets emerged, namely physical health needs, unmet psychological needs and the need for a healthy social relationship. Recommendations to deal with these health needs were made based on the empirical data supported by literature. Measures of trustworthiness were ensured as described by Lincoln and Guba (1985:316-327).
Evaluation of HIV counselling and testing, self-disclosure, social support and sexual behaviour change among a rural sample of HIV reactive patients in South Africa
Authors: Sethosa E , Peltzer K
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to evaluate HIV counselling and testing, self-disclosure, social support and sexual behavior change among HIV reactive patients among a rural sample of HIV reactive patients in South Africa. The sample consisted at the post-test counselling exit interview of 55 participants (41 women and 14 men) who tested HIV-positive conveniently selected from a rural hospital and at five months follow-up at their homes 47. Results indicated that most patients had an HIV test because of medical reasons. At follow-up only 36% had disclosed their HIV status and half of the participants had had sex without condoms in the past three weeks. Major reason for not disclosing of their HIV status were being afraid of negative reactions, fear of discrimination, fear of violence, concerns about confidentiality and not yet ready. Social support was found to be significantly related to disclosure of HIV status, while counselling context and content and counselling satisfaction were not related with HIV disclosure.
Accompaniment needs of nursing students related to the dying patient
Authors: Van Rooyen D , Laing R , Kotzé WJ
Published: November 2012

Nurse educators are responsible for accompanying students towards becoming capable, competent professional nurses who are a credit to themselves, their patients, colleagues and profession. Student nurses need, therefore, to be taught to render comprehensive nursing care to patients in all stages of their lives, including when they are dying. Being confronted with human suffering and death is challenging and traumatic. Those exposed to such events on a daily basis need to have a solid foundation of self preservation to see past the pain of suffering and to bring light and hope to those in need. A young student nurse will only experience positive growth and development in these circumstances if she is also cared for and guided with understanding. The researcher utilized a qualitative, explorative, descriptive and contextual design based on the phenomenological approach to enquiry. The following question was asked at the beginning of each unstructured phenomenological interview: “How was if for you to care for a dying or deceased patient?” The central theme identified that student nurses experience turmoil in their different relationships in their accompaniment of the dying patient. Guidelines based on the central theme and sub-themes that emerged from raw data, as well as literature, are offered as strategies to promote/enhance optimal accompaniment of student nurses caring for the dying patient.
Women’s experience of termination of a pregnancy
Authors: Poggenpoel M , Myburgh CPH
Published: November 2012

In November 1996 the Act on the Termination of Pregnancies (no 92 of 1996) was promulgated. This Act enabled women from the age of twelve years old to decide to terminate their pregnancies before twelve weeks gestation without permission of anybody else. Since February 1997 almost 160 000 terminations of pregnancy have been carried out in South Africa. Little research has been conducted to explore and describe the effect of the termination of pregnancies on women Two aims were formulated for the research project described in this article: (1) the exploration and description of the women’s experience of terminating a pregnancy, and (2) the description of counselling guidelines for caring professionals to assist these women. Participants were included in the sample through purposive sampling. Phenomenological interviews were conducted individually. Data were analysed by means of Tesch’s descriptive approach. Counselling guidelines for educational psychologists and other caring professionals to empower the involved were being logically inferred from the results of the interviews. Measures to ensure trustworthiness have been applied in the research and ethical measures have been strictly adhered to during the research. One central theme was identified from the results of the interviews and naïve sketches, namely women’s experiences of a negative relationship with themselves and other persons as well as their focus on their terminated pregnancies.
Utilization of delivery services in the context of Prevention of HIV from Mother- To-Child (PMTCT) in a rural community, South Africa
Authors: Peltzer K , Mosala T , Shisana O , Nqeteko A
Published: November 2012

The aim of this study was to investigate the utilization of delivery services in the context of PMTCT in a rural community in South Africa. Based on a cross-sectional survey, the sample included 870 pregnant women who had delivered before recruited from five PMTCT clinics and surrounding communities. Results indicated that 55.9% had delivered their last child in a health care facility and 44.1% at home (mostly without assistance from a traditional birth attendant). The odds of access to the health facility were (1) women who stayed close to the hospital (OR=2.87), (2) those who had higher formal education (OR=l .55), (3) higher traveling costs (affordability) to get to nearest clinic (OR=1.77), and (4) those who were single (OR=1.58). Childbirth experiences of the mother or mother-in-law greatly influenced the delivery choices in terms of home delivery. The majority of the pregnant women were aware of mother-to-child HIV transmission but only 9% of the pregnant women had ever been tested for HIV. HIV knowledge, HIV testing behaviour and attitudes were found to be not associated with the delivery option.