bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Personalising reablement: inserting the missing link
Authors: Newton Clive
Published: August 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to highlight the ways in which reablement services can be made more effective by applying the learning from personalisation and person‐centred planning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on the evidence from evaluation of reablement services; and from the evaluation of social rehabilitation services using task‐centred practice.

Findings

The paper finds that motivation is key to the success of reablement. Person‐centred approaches can ensure that motivation supports the achievement of outcomes.

Practical implications

Reablement staff can, and should be, trained to identify personal goals with service users and use task‐centred approaches to achieve them. Partnership with voluntary organisations can help to deliver improved outcomes.

Originality/value

The paper brings together the lessons learned from reablement and from person‐centred practice to propose a more effective model of intervention.
Process management tasks and barriers: functional to processes approach
Authors: Aparecida da Silva Lucia , Pelogia Martins Damian Ieda , Inês Dallavalle de Pádua Silvia
Published: August 2012

Purpose

Migration from the traditional management model to the BPM (business process management) approach results in improved process performance. In order to promote BPM, it is necessary to have an organizational approach that defines the necessary tasks of the processes' project, day‐to‐day execution, and learning‐related tasks. In this aspect, there are difficulties and barriers to be confronted in a different way through organization. The purpose of this paper is to analyze the importance attributed to the tasks necessary for process management considering the way the management of these tasks and barriers found in order to change from functional management to process oriented management.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study was developed on two companies from the services sector. In‐depth interviews with managers from the companies studied were conducted.

Findings

It was identified that these companies found themselves at different levels of transition from the functional management process to process oriented management and that people and organizational cultures are presented in both organizations as the main barriers to changes within this management model.

Research limitations/implications

This research is based on a broad bibliographical base in opposition to the limited capacity of empirical validation.

Originality/value

The paper describes an empirical case study which refers to BPM tasks and to the barriers that will be transposed in order to promote business process management. The research investigates which BPM tasks are executed and the importance of each task and even the barriers against changing the management.
Biogenic carbon emissions of integrated ethanol production
Authors: Väisänen Sanni , Valtonen Tuovi , Soukka Risto
Published: August 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to present greenhouse gas study results for biofuels produced with partial qualified utilisation of pulp wood or forest residues when integrated into kraft pulp mill systems. The impact of considering biogenic carbon on the results is also presented.

Design/methodology/approach

The material and energy balances of the integrated ethanol production were simulated for the study with a mill‐wide simulation model. Data for the simulation were obtained from prehydrolysis and cooking experiments. The life cycle model for greenhouse gas calculation was created based on the simulation results. In this paper, the change of forest carbon stock caused by residue removal from forest soil and carbon delay of forest growth after stand felling were also taken into consideration, to discuss the true greenhouse gas emissions of forest biomass utilisation.

Findings

The emission reduction levels achieved with these ethanol fuels derived from forest biomass ranged from 80 to 90 per cent when biogenic carbon emissions were neglected.

Originality/value

The findings indicate that in both cases a significant percentage of the side flows containing energy can be utilised to produce excess electricity when the ethanol plant is integrated into the pulp mill. The findings also indicate that the carbon storage impact of forest biomasses affects significantly the emission values of both studied fuels and overturns the emission savings of prehydrolysed chip based ethanol.
Brain integration as a driver for quality management success
Authors: Lagrosen Yvonne , Travis Frederick T. , Lagrosen Stefan
Published: August 2012

Purpose

In this paper, research leading to quality management success is examined, elaborated, and highlighted in a new profound way by focusing on the most fundamental aspect of the human dimension, the brain. The purpose is to examine the relationship between brain functioning and quality management success. In this examination, the role of core values, profound organizational learning and values of quality management are explained.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper builds on a conceptual review of research in the areas of quality management success, values of quality management, core values and neurophysiology with focus on brain integration.

Findings

The relation of core values with brain functioning is described based on previous research. A framework with logical steps from brain integration, via core values, quality management values and quality management practices to quality management success is developed.

Research limitations/implications

The paper adds to the understanding of the role brain integration has for success in quality management efforts. A limitation is that it only builds on previous research.

Practical implications

The findings provide a deeper understanding of quality management success and should thus be valuable for quality managers and leaders striving for excellence for their organisations.

Originality/value

The importance and crucial role of brain integration for quality management success has not been elaborated in the literature of quality management before.
Value creation in international higher education
Authors: Julia Vauterin Johanna , Linnanen Lassi , Marttila Esa
Published: August 2012

Purpose

This paper takes the stance that the continuous growth of international student degree mobility creates new opportunities for academia and business to collaborate to mutual advantage. To recognize, identify and exploit these opportunities, it is critically important to understand what boundaries stand between university‐industry partnering initiatives in international higher education (HE) and what interaction processes span these boundaries. The purpose of this paper is to develop a model of the boundary‐spanning functions and processes underpinning value marketing for strategic university‐industry partnering.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs interpretive phenomenological research methods. It takes an investigative case‐based approach, studying over time the boundaries, boundary roles and processes involved in university‐industry collaborative interaction in the context of Finnish international HE.

Findings

The findings suggest that conceptualization of the university‐industry boundary‐spanning processes in international HE needs to be extended to incorporate elements concerning the power, impact and management of the boundary roles. A better understanding and adequate managing of the boundary roles may help to decrease the perceived market demand uncertainty surrounding international HE. The findings also suggest that in‐depth research is needed for the development of a holistic understanding of how partnering for international HE is experienced.

Originality/value

This paper represents a first attempt to conceptualize university‐industry boundary‐spanning processes, both in a general manner and from a viewpoint of value creation in working partnerships between academia and business within the context of international HE.
CEO perspective
Authors: Crowley Kathleen
Published: August 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to share the perspective of the founder and CEO of Edible Arrangements, Tariq Farid, while exploring the importance of life stories and authenticity to successful leadership and entrepreneurship.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper was based on a structured interview format. Tariq Farid's responses were used to guide and inform the discussion.

Findings

This paper presents the views of a successful Pakistani‐American. It found that a person's life stories and early socialization provide meaning and self‐awareness that are important to their success as a leader and an entrepreneur.

Originality/value

This paper offers the perspective of a CEO of a multinational corporation with first‐hand experience and knowledge of being a successful and innovative entrepreneur. His perspectives are valuable to the discussion on the influence of life stories, being authentic and the role of South Asian values and upbringing in honing leadership and entrepreneurship qualities.
A model for student mentoring in business schools
Authors: George Manju P. , Rupert Mampilly Sebastian
Published: August 2012

Purpose

The essence of management education lies in preparing and enabling the students to evolve cognitively, affectively and behaviorally into capable ones equipped to meet and manage challenges from within and outside their organisations or workplaces. Mentoring, as pedagogy, results in enhancing effectiveness of B‐schools (Institutions offering MBA program) in ensuring the transformation of students into professionals. The purpose of this paper is to analyze and evaluate the formal and teacher‐initiated student mentoring in B‐schools in Kerala in terms of the designated activities, to establish effectiveness of mentoring as outcomes of faculty‐related antecedents and mentoring activities, and to demonstrate the effectiveness in terms of the psycho‐social changes of students.

Design/methodology/approach

This research employed a conclusive approach that combined the features of descriptive and explanatory research designs. The respondents of the study comprised 141 permanent teachers, 327 first‐year students and 318 final‐year students enrolled in the management programs of 19 B‐schools in Kerala that had minimum five years of existence and approval of the All India Council of Technical Education (AICTE).

Findings

The study revealed that less than half of the B‐schools had implemented a mentoring program as part of their pedagogy. A structural equation model using the partial least square technique validated the conceptual model and the findings revealed that socio‐demographic characteristics, mentoring activities (teach the job, provide challenge, teach politics, career help, sponsor, career counseling and trust) influenced effectiveness of mentoring.

Research limitations/implications

The study was conducted only among B‐schools, hence the research results may lack generalization. Therefore, researchers are encouraged to test the proposed model further.

Practical Implications

The paper includes a conceptual framework employed for bringing about effectiveness of mentoring, proven to be valid and may be considered by B‐schools that are institutionalizing mentoring as an element of the pedagogy.

Originality/value

The paper bridges the perceptible lack of theoretical and empirical bases to explain the dynamics of student mentoring in management institutes in the country and will be an eye‐opener to management institutions which have not incorporated mentoring as part of their pedagogy.
DNA barcoding a regional fauna: Irish solitary bees
Authors: Magnacca Karl N. , Brown Mark J. F.
Published: August 2012

As the globally dominant group of pollinators, bees provide a key ecosystem service for natural and agricultural landscapes. Their corresponding global decline thus poses an important threat to plant populations and the ecosystems they support. Bee conservation requires rapid and effective tools to identify and delineate species. Here, we apply DNA barcoding to Irish solitary bees as the first step towards a DNA barcode library for European solitary bees. Using the standard barcoding sequence, we were able to identify 51 of 55 species. Potential problems included a suite of species in the genus Andrena, which were recalcitrant to sequencing, mitochondrial heteroplasmy and parasitic flies, which led to the production of erroneous sequences from DNA extracts. DNA barcoding enabled the assignment of morphologically unidentifiable females of the parasitic genus Sphecodes to their nominal taxa. It also enabled correction of the Irish bee list for morphologically inaccurately identified specimens. However, the standard COI barcode was unable to differentiate the recently diverged taxa Sphecodes ferruginatus and S. hyalinatus. Overall, our results show that DNA barcoding provides an excellent identification tool for Irish solitary bees and should be rolled out to provide a database for solitary bees globally.
Prescription of nonselective NSAIDs, coxibs and gastroprotective agents in the era of rofecoxib withdrawal ‐ a 617 400‐patient study
Authors: Valkhoff V. E. , van Soest E. M. , Masclee G. M. C. , de Bie S. , Mazzaglia G. , Molokhia M. , Kuipers E. J. , Sturkenboom M. C. J. M.
Published: August 2012

Background

Gastroprotective strategies are recommended for nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drug (NSAID) users at risk of upper gastrointestinal (UGI) complications.

Aim

To compare the use of gastroprotective strategies in NSAID users in three countries, and the subsequent impact of rofecoxib withdrawal.

Methods

We conducted a population‐based cohort study in three general practice (GP) databases: (i) United Kingdom's (UK) GP Research Database (1998–2008); (ii) Italy's (IT) Health Search/CSD Longitudinal Patient Database (2000–2007); and (iii) the Dutch (NL) Integrated Primary Care Information database (1996–2006). Study cohorts comprised incident NSAID users ≥50 years. Preventive strategies included: (i) co‐prescription of gastroprotective agents; or (ii) cyclooxygenase‐2‐selective inhibitor use. Under‐use was defined as no gastroprotection in patients with ≥1 UGI risk factor (history of UGI event, age ≥65 years, concomitant use of anticoagulants, antiplatelets or glucocorticoids). Interrupted time‐series analysis was performed to assess the impact of rofecoxib withdrawal on preventive strategies.

Results

The study populations consisted of 384 649 UK, 177 747 IT and 55 004 NL NSAID users. In UK, under‐use of preventive strategies fell from 91% to 71% [linear trend (lt) P = 0.001], in NL from 92% to 58% (lt P < 0.001) and in IT from 90% to 76% (lt P = 0.38) in high‐risk NSAID users. In 2000 and 2006, under‐use was significantly lower in NL compared with UK and IT (P < 0.001) in high‐risk users. After rofecoxib's withdrawal, under‐use increased significantly in UK and NL.

Conclusions

The prescription of gastropreventive strategies followed a similar pattern across countries. Despite a temporary negative effect of rofecoxib withdrawal on under‐use, improvement of gastroprotection with nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs was observed.
Guideline on the investigation and management of acute transfusion reactions Prepared by the BCSH Blood Transfusion Task Force
Authors: Tinegate Hazel , Birchall Janet , Gray Alexandra , Haggas Richard , Massey Edwin , Norfolk Derek , Pinchon Deborah , Sewell Carrock , Wells Angus , Allard Shubha
Published: August 2012

Although acute non‐haemolytic febrile or allergic reactions (ATRs) are a common complication of transfusion and often result in little or no morbidity, prompt recognition and management are essential. The serious hazards of transfusion haemovigilance organisation (SHOT) receives 30–40 reports of anaphylactic reactions each year. Other serious complications of transfusion, such as acute haemolysis, bacterial contamination, transfusion‐related acute lung injury (TRALI) or transfusion‐associated circulatory overload (TACO) may present with similar clinical features to ATR.

This guideline describes the approach to a patient developing adverse symptoms and signs related to transfusion, including initial recognition, establishing a likely cause, treatment, investigations, planning future transfusion and reporting within the hospital and to haemovigilance organisations.

Key recommendations are that adrenaline should be used as first line treatment of anaphylaxis, and that transfusions should only be carried out where patients can be directly observed and where staff are trained in manging complications of transfusion, particularly anaphylaxis. Management of ATRs is not dependent on classification but should be guided by symptoms and signs. Patients who have experienced an anaphylactic reaction should be discussed with an allergist or immunologist, in keeping with UK resuscitation council guidelines.
Whole exome sequencing identifies a novel DFNA9 mutation, C162Y
Authors: Gao J , Xue J , Chen Li , Ke X , Qi Y , Liu Y
Published: August 2012

We report the genetic analysis of a Chinese family with autosomal dominant non‐syndromic progressive sensorineural hearing loss. Taking advantage of next‐generation high‐throughput DNA sequencing technology, we combined whole exome capture sequencing with Sanger direct sequencing. A novel missense mutation in the coagulation factor C homolog (COCH) gene was identified in a consanguineous Chinese family. This missense mutation in the seventh exon (c.889G>A; p.C162Y) of COCH is most probably a disease‐causing mutation and it segregates with the disease. The mutation is not found in the single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) database, the yhSNP database, the 1000 genomes SNP database or in matching normal controls. It is the first reported autosomal dominant nonsyndromic sensorineural deafness 9 (DFNA9) mutation outside the limulus factor C, cochlin and late gestation lung protein and von Willebrand factor 2 domain, i.e. the first reported DFNA9 mutation in the intervening domain of cochlin, encoded by the COCH gene. In the future, we will focus on functional studies of this mutation.
Mycosis fungoides involving an acrochordon: a case report
Authors: McClain Colt M. , Cole Mary Beth , Robbins Jason B. , Kantrow Sara M.
Published: August 2012

We present the case of a 77‐year‐old male undergoing treatment for mycosis fungoides (MF) who presented for removal of an acrochordon on his mid back. Histopathologic examination of the acrochordon revealed a dense, band‐like lymphocytic inflammatory infiltrate in the dermis with epidermotropism of single lymphocytes and small nests of lymphocytes into the lower epidermis. Immunohistochemical staining characterized the dermal and epidermal lymphocytic population asCD3‐positive T lymphocytes with a predominance ofCD4‐positive overCD8‐positive lymphocytes. These findings were consistent with the patient's knownMFand molecular identification of a clonal T‐cell receptor gene rearrangement further supported the diagnosis. Our unusual case reportsMFinvolving an acrochordon and provides evidence to support the importance of submitting acrochordons for histopathologic examination.
Miliarial‐type perifollicular B‐cell pseudolymphoma (lymphocytoma cutis): a misleading eruption in two women
Authors: Moulonguet Isabelle , Ghnassia Martine , Molina Thierry , Fraitag Sylvie
Published: August 2012

Disseminated miliarial‐type lymphocytoma cutis is a rare clinicopathologic subtype of lymphocytoma, characterized by numerous translucent micropapules and located on the head and neck. We describe here the clinical, histological and immunological features of miliarial‐type perifollicular B‐cell pseudolymphoma in two women aged 32 and 49 years presenting with numerous 1–2 mm translucent papules on the head and neck. Microscopic examination revealed features typical of a miniature lymphocytoma cutis with a superficial nodular infiltrate housing small well‐circumscribed germinal centers containing tingible body macrophages and surrounded by a distinct mantle zone. The immunohistological profile was also typical of lymphocytoma cutis, and polymerase chain reaction analysis of the IgH gene rearrangement did not show any clonal B‐cell population. The lesions resolved spontaneously in one case and improved after treatment with hydroxychloroquine in the second patient. The presentation of this subtype of lymphocytoma is a formidable clinical diagnostic challenge. Rosacea, sarcoidosis, democidiosis, lupus miliaris disseminatus faciei and steroid acne are easy to exclude on the basis of histological profile. However, the miliarial form of primary cutaneous center lymphoma is difficult to rule out. Dermatologists and dermatopathologists should be aware of this unusual form of lymphocytoma cutis, which can be misleading during clinical diagnosis.
Melanoma ex blue nevus: two cases resembling large plaque‐type blue nevus with subcutaneous cellular nodules
Authors: North Jeffrey P. , Yeh Iwei , McCalmont Timothy H. , LeBoit Philip E.
Published: August 2012

Large plaque‐type blue nevi with subcutaneous cellular nodules are rare tumors occurring on the trunk with deep extension into underlying soft tissues. The histopathologic appearance consists of deep nodules resembling cellular blue nevi with interspersed foci of common blue nevus. Conservative management has been recommended, and metastases have not been observed. This report discusses two cases with microscopic features of large plaque‐type blue nevi with subcutaneous cellular nodules in which comparative genomic hybridization showed chromosomal aberrations typical of melanoma. In both cases, the nodules showed gains involving chromosome 6p and losses involving chromosome 6q, which are among the most commonly found aberrations in melanoma. These copy number changes were not present in the less cellular surrounding areas that appeared characteristic of blue nevus. These cases illustrate that large blue nevi with a deep, multi‐nodular configuration should be interpreted with caution, and that superficial biopsies of such lesions can be misleading. Molecular techniques can provide valuable insights in these types of difficult melanocytic neoplasms.
Ocean acidification reduces induction of coral settlement by crustose coralline algae
Authors: Webster Nicole S. , Uthicke Sven , Botté Emanuelle S. , Flores Florita , Negri Andrew P.
Published: August 2012

Crustose coralline algae (CCA) are a critical component of coral reefs as they accrete carbonate for reef structure and act as settlement substrata for many invertebrates including corals. CCA host a diversity of microorganisms that can also play a role in coral settlement and metamorphosis processes. Although the sensitivity of CCA to ocean acidification (OA) is well established, the response of their associated microbial communities to reduced pH and increased CO2 was previously not known. Here we investigate the sensitivity of CCA‐associated microbial biofilms to OA and determine whether or not OA adversely affects the ability of CCA to induce coral larval metamorphosis. We experimentally exposed the CCA Hydrolithon onkodes to four pH/pCO2 conditions consistent with current IPCC predictions for the next few centuries (pH: 8.1, 7.9, 7.7, 7.5, pCO2: 464, 822, 1187, 1638 μatm). Settlement and metamorphosis of coral larvae was reduced on CCA pre‐exposed to pH 7.7 (pCO2 = 1187 μatm) and below over a 6‐week period. Additional experiments demonstrated that low pH treatments did not directly affect the ability of larvae to settle, but instead most likely altered the biochemistry of the CCA or its microbial associates. Detailed microbial community analysis of the CCA revealed diverse bacterial assemblages that altered significantly between pH 8.1 (pCO2 = 464 μatm) and pH 7.9 (pCO2 = 822 μatm) with this trend continuing at lower pH/higher pCO2 treatments. The shift in microbial community composition primarily comprised changes in the abundance of the dominant microbes between the different pH treatments and the appearance of new (but rare) microbes at pH 7.5. Microbial shifts and the concomitant reduced ability of CCA to induce coral settlement under OA conditions projected to occur by 2100 is a significant concern for the development, maintenance and recovery of reefs globally.
Aliskiren attenuates chronic carbon tetrachloride–induced liver injury in mice
Authors: Lee Kuei‐Chuan , Chan Che‐Chang , Yang Ying‐Ying , Hsieh Yun‐Cheng , Huang Yi‐Hsiang , Lin Han‐Chieh
Published: August 2012

Eur J Clin Invest 2012; 42 (12): 1261–1271

Background  Increased angiotensin II (Ang II) plays an important role in liver inflammation and fibrogenesis. Chronic administration of aliskiren, a newly developed direct renin inhibitor, decreases Ang II in the hypertensive patients and animals.

Aims  Our study aims to evaluate the possible protective effects of chronic administration of aliskiren in a chronic liver injury model.

Methods  C57BL6 mice were injected intraperitoneally with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) to induce chronic liver injury. The injured mice were randomly assigned to aliskiren‐treated (25 mg/kg per day for 2 weeks, the CCl4 + Ali group) or untreated group (the CCl4 group). Mice without CCl4 and aliskiren administration served as the normal control.

Results  In the CCl4‐injured mice, aliskiren attenuated liver inflammation and fibrosis. The levels of hepatocyte apoptosis, lipid peroxidation production, the activation of hepatic stellate cells and Kupffer cells, hepatic expression of p47 phox, inflammatory mediators and profibrotic markers were reduced in the CCl4 + Ali group. Furthermore, aliskiren decreased Ang II, activated the renal expression of renin, but down‐regulated the hepatic expression of renin and renin receptor in the CCl4‐injected mice.

Conclusions  Aliskiren attenuates chronic liver injury in the CCl4‐treated mice by reducing Ang II. Direct renin inhibition may serve as a potential treatment for chronic liver injury.
Effect of ascorbic acid on seed germination of three halophytic grass species under saline conditions
Authors: Zehra A. , Shaikh F. , Ansari R. , Gul B. , Khan M. A.
Published: August 2012

Grasses on the Pakistani coast are moderately to highly salt tolerant and have potential for utilization as a cash crop. This study was designed to determine whether seed germination of three halophytic grasses (Phragmites karka, Dichanthium annulatum and Eragrostis ciliaris) could be improved by exogenous application of ascorbic acid (AsA) under saline conditions. Seeds of P. karka were germinated in varying concentrations of NaCl and AsA under different temperature regimes, and seeds of Dichanthium annulatum and Eragrostis ciliaris were germinated at optimal temperatures only. In P. karka, concentrations of AsA (5 and 10 mM) alleviated the salinity effects better at cooler and moderate thermo‐periods, whereas higher concentrations (20 mM of AsA) failed to improve germination under all temperature regimes. AsA was ineffective at a warmer thermo‐period (25/35°C). The rate of germination also increased at all thermo‐periods with the application of AsA except at 25/35°C under saline conditions. Application of AsA improved the germination of E. ciliaris seeds under saline conditions but was inhibitory for D. annulatum in comparison with the untreated control. The rate of germination followed the similar pattern as that of seed germination. Results indicate that AsA has the ability to partially alleviate the effect of salinity on seed germination of some grass species under optimal temperature regime.
Effect of three different storage media on survival of periodontal ligament cells using collagenase–dispase assay
Authors: Mahal N. K. , Singh N. , Thomas A. M. , Kakkar N.
Published: August 2012

Aim

To evaluate and compare the efficacy of propolis, egg albumen and Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS) in maintaining the viability of human periodontal ligament (PDL) cells using a collagenase–dispase assay.

Methodology

Fifty‐five freshly extracted human teeth were divided into three experimental (HBSS, egg albumen and propolis) and two control groups. Fifteen teeth per experimental group were stored dry for 30 min and then immersed for 45 min in one of the three experimental media. The positive and negative controls corresponded to 0‐min and 1‐h dry time, respectively, with five teeth per control group. The teeth were then treated with collagenase II and dispase II for 30 min and labelled with 0.4% trypan blue for determination of viability. The number of viable cells was counted with a haemocytometer and analysed statistically by anova and post hoc Tukey HSD test.

Results

Statistical analysis demonstrated there was no significant difference between HBSS, egg albumen and propolis in maintaining cell viability.

Conclusion

Egg albumen and propolis may be able to maintain PDL cell viability as well as HBSS.
A novel Transcript is Up‐Regulated by Fasting in the Hypothalamus and Enhances Insulin Signalling
Authors: Chai B. , Li J.‐Y. , Fritze D. , Zhang W. , Xia Z. , Mulholland M. W.
Published: August 2012

A transcript of unknown function, regulated by fasting and feeding, was identified by microarray analysis. The transcript is up‐regulated in the fasting state. An 1168‐bp cDNA was cloned from rat hypothalamus and sequenced. This sequence is consistent with adipogenesis down‐regulating transcript 3 (AGD3) (also known as human OCC‐1) mRNA. A protein sequence identical to AGD3 was determined by mass spectrometry. In the rat brain, AGD3 mRNA is distributed in the arcuate nucleus, ventromedial hypothalamus, amygdaloid nuclei, hippocampus, and somatic cortex. Double in situ hybridisation showed that AGD3 mRNA is co‐localised with pro‐opiomelanocortin and neuropeptide Y in arcuate nucleus neurones. AGD3 binds with insulin receptor substrate 4 and increases insulin‐stimulated phospho‐Akt and regulates AMP‐activated protein kinase and mammalian target of rapamycin downstream target S6 kinase phosphorylation.
Biological control of botrytis bunch rot in organic wine grapes with the yeast antagonist Candida sake CPA‐1
Authors: Calvo‐Garrido C. , Elmer P. A. G. , Viñas I. , Usall J. , Bartra E. , Teixidó N.
Published: August 2012

The aim of this research was to confirm the efficacy of the yeast antagonist Candida sake CPA‐1 in suppressing botrytis bunch rot development, in an organic vineyard under Mediterranean conditions for two seasons, and compare its performance with that of two biologically based products currently registered for botrytis bunch rot control in New Zealand. In 2009, treatments applied were: commercial formulations of Ulocladium oudemansii (BOTRY‐Zen®) and chitosan (ARMOUR‐Zen®), C. sake CPA‐1 combined with the fatty acid‐based additive Fungicover® and combinations of these products. All treatments were applied six times between early flowering and harvest and compared with an unsprayed control. In 2010, the treatments focused on C. sake and Fungicover and the number of applications was reduced from six to four. The population dynamics of U. oudemansii and C. sake were measured and wine quality tests were carried out in both seasons. Disease control achieved by C. sake treatments in 2009 were comparable to those achieved by BOTRY‐Zen and ARMOUR‐Zen. Applications of C. sake plus Fungicover between flowering and harvest significantly (P < 0·05) reduced botrytis bunch rot incidence and severity by 64% and 90%, respectively, compared with the untreated control in 2009, and by 67% and 89%, respectively, in 2010. Treatments did not adversely affect wine quality parameters after treated grapes were processed. Candida sake consistently provided effective control of botrytis bunch rot in grapes under different meteorological and disease pressure conditions, thereby improving its potential for future commercial applications.
Tender cutaneous nodules of the legs: diagnosis and clinical clues to diagnosis
Authors: Eimpunth Sasima , Pattanaprichakul Penvadee , Sitthinamsuwa Panitta , Chularojanamontri Leena , Sethabutra Piyaroj , Mahaisavariya Punkae
Published: August 2012

Background  “Tender cutaneous nodules of the legs” is a common manifestation in dermatology. Histopathological investigation is usually required for this condition, because clinical data are frequently insufficient to make a definite diagnosis.

Objective  To identify and analyze the causes of patients presenting with tender leg nodules and to reveal clinical clues that could help to differentiate causes.

Materials and methods  The medical records and histopathological slides of patients presenting with tender cutaneous nodules of the legs between January 2005 and December 2007 were retrospectively reviewed.

Results  Of the total of 154 patients, 122 (79.2%) were female. Definite diagnoses were categorized into four groups: inflammation (84.4%); infection (5.8%); tumor (6.5%); and nonspecific (3.2%). The most common cause in the inflammation group was erythema nodosum. The infections found were Acremonium spp., Penicillium sp., Mycobacterium abscessus, Mycobacterium fortuitum and Mycobacterium leprae. The tumors included leiomyoma, leukemia cutis, and lymphomas. Clinical data that correlated with and could be used as clues for the inflammation group were female sex (P = 0.03, OR 6.43) and lower leg involvement (P = 0.03, OR 7.14).

Limitations  The retrospective manner of this study is a limitation.

Conclusion  Various inflammatory conditions, infections, and tumors can present as tender cutaneous nodules of the legs. Female sex and lower leg involvement were clinical data that could be used as clues for the diagnoses in the inflammation group. However, histopathological investigation is still crucial to determine a definite diagnosis in patients presenting with tender cutaneous nodules of the legs.
Antibiogram testing of pediatric skin infections in the era of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococci aureus: an Egyptian University Hospital‐based study
Authors: Abdel Fattah Nermeen S.A. , Darwish Yasser W.
Published: August 2012

Background  Community‐associated methicillin‐resistant Staphylococci aureus (CA‐MRSA) pediatric skin infections have been reported worldwide. However, little is known about pathogens' implications in Egyptian children, and beta‐lactams are still the empiric antimicrobials prescribed. This warrants Egyptian studies on antibiogram testing of pediatric skin infections.

Objectives  To determine antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial isolates from Egyptian pediatric skin infections to find out if we need reconsideration of the empiric beta‐lactam antimicrobial therapy.

Materials and methods  Throughout an eight‐month cross‐sectional study, antibiogram testing was conducted on bacterial isolates from pediatric skin infections. Determination of inducible resistance to clindamycin using D‐test was performed for isolates susceptible to clindamycin and resistant to erythromycin.

Results  One‐hundred and 21 children (mean age 6.9 years ± 3 SD) presented with pyogenic skin infections. Methicillin‐sensitive Staphylococci aureus (MSSA) were isolated from 114 children, associated with group A Streptococci (GAS) in four of them, while GAS were the only isolates in three patients. A diagnosis of CA‐MRSA was fulfilled in four children. Antibiotic susceptibilities differed between isolated organisms but with no statistically significant differences between susceptibility patterns of isolates from primary skin infections and those from secondary infection of skin diseases. Positive D‐test was detected in five MSSA isolates.

Conclusions  CA‐MRSA skin infections are not common among Egyptian children and, therefore, beta‐lactams are still effective empiric antimicrobial therapy for most infections. Antibiogram testing from suppurative skin lesions are, however, better to be recommended to guide individual therapy. Clindamycin should not be considered for susceptible isolates unless they are erythromycin susceptible or D‐test negative.
Successful treatment of monomorphic primary central nervous system post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder 5 years after kidney transplantation
Authors: Yaginuma T. , Yamamoto H. , Mitome J. , Tanno Y. , Yamamoto I. , Kobayashi A. , Mafune A. , Hayakawa H. , Yokoyama K. , Mori R. , Ohashi H. , Kaito N. , Joki T. , Miki J. , Yamada H. , Furuta N. , Matsushima S. , Fukuda T. , Hosoya T.
Published: August 2012

A 31‐year‐old man underwent living‐related kidney transplantation in 2004 as a consequence of primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS). Four years after the transplantation, we confirmed nephrotic syndrome caused by recurrent FSGS. We performed plasmapheresis and low‐density lipoprotein adsorption. We also combined steroid therapy with a reduction in the dose of tacrolimus and an increased dose of mycophenolate mofetil. The nephrotic syndrome improved dramatically with this combined therapeutic approach.

However, 10 months after these treatments, he revisited our hospital because of altered consciousness. We detected multiple tumor masses in his brain that were ring enhanced on contrast magnetic resonance imaging. Consequently, we suspected primary central nervous system post‐transplantation lymphoproliferative disorder (CNS‐PTLD). We performed a craniotomy to biopsy the brain tumors. The biopsy specimen showed Epstein–Barr virus‐associated diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. There is no definitive treatment for CNS‐PTLD. Therefore, we treated the primary CNS‐PTLD successfully with whole‐brain radiation and discontinuation of immunosuppression therapy.
Revisiting 1:1 and 2:1 clinical placement models: Student and clinical educator perspectives
Authors: O'Connor Anne , Cahill Mairead , McKay Elizabeth A.
Published: August 2012

Aim

A recent systematic review suggests that more comparative research is required on the effectiveness of clinical placement models. This study explored perspectives of clinical educators and students who had participated in both the 1:1 (one student supervised by one clinical educator) and 2:1 (two students supervised by one clinical educator) models of clinical education across occupational therapy and physiotherapy programmes in Ireland.

Methods

Qualitative data using a descriptive approach were gathered through individual semi‐structured interviews with a convenience sample of 12 students and eight clinical educators. Transcripts were analysed using thematic content analysis.

Results

Three main themes emerged: learning opportunities and experiences; organisation and planning; relationships. Although clinical educators felt that the 2:1 model offered greater learning experiences than the 1:1 model, it presented organisational challenges. Students preferred the 2:1 model earlier in their clinical experience due to the benefits of peer learning, whereas the 1:1 model was favoured in the latter stages to demonstrate individual autonomy. Relationships forged during placement were significant, from the student's perspectives, but differed between models. Clinical educator and student perspectives indicated that learning from other members of the multidisciplinary team had a positive effect on learning within both models.

Conclusion

Each clinical placement model requires specific organisational and planning skills to be effective. An awareness of individual student learning is essential to avoid dissatisfaction with the learning and assessment process on a 2:1 model. Recently established clinical education teams in Ireland may have a role to play in developing effective clinical learning.
Caseload of general surgeons working in a rural hospital with outreach practice
Authors: Campbell Nicole A. , Franzi Stephen , Thomas Peter
Published: August 2012

Background

There is little published data regarding the caseloads of general surgeons working in rural Australia conducting outreach services as part of their practice. It remains difficult to attract and retain surgeons in rural Australia. This study aims to describe the workload of surgeons working in a rural centre with outreach practices in order to determine the required skills mix for prospective surgeons.

Methods

A retrospective review of surgical procedures carried out by two surgeons over 5 years working from a base in Wangaratta, Victoria, with outreach services to Benalla, Bright and Mansfield was undertaken. Data were extracted from surgeon records using Medicare Benefits Schedule item numbers.

Results

A total of 18 029 procedures were performed over 5 years, with 15% of these performed in peripheral hospitals as part of an outreach service. A full range of general surgical procedures were undertaken, with endoscopies accounting for 32% of procedures. In addition, vascular procedures and emergency craniotomies were also performed. The majority of procedures undertaken at peripheral centres were minor procedures, with only two laparotomies performed at these centres over 5 years.

Conclusion

General surgeons working in rural centres are required to have broad skills and be able to undertake a large number of procedures. Trainees should be encouraged to consider rural practice, and those who are interested should consider the needs of the community in which they intend to practice. Outreach work to surrounding communities can be rewarding for both the surgeon and the community.
Surgical outcomes of hepatocellular carcinoma originating from caudate lobe
Authors: Zhou Yanming , Zhang Xiaofeng , Wu Lupeng , Xu Donghui , Li Bin
Published: August 2012

Background

Caudate resection for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) remains a challenging procedure. This study aimed to assess the surgical outcomes of HCC originating from caudate lobe.

Methods

Twenty‐three patients with HCC in the caudate lobe who received surgical treatment were retrospectively reviewed.

Results

Surgical procedures included 13 isolated caudatectomy (56.5%) and 10 combined caudatectomy (43.5%). Eight patients (34.7%) experienced post‐operative complications. Mortality was nil. The 1‐, 3‐ and 5‐year overall survival rates after surgery were 90.1%, 60% and 37%, respectively. Isolated caudatectomy was associated with less frequent tumours located in paracaval portion, longer operative time, longer vascular occlusion time and more blood loss than combined caudatectomy (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Surgical resection is feasible and beneficial for patients with HCC in the caudate lobe. If liver functional reserve is sufficient, combined caudatectomy is preferred.
‘That was helpful … no one has talked to me about that before’: Research participation as a therapeutic activity
Authors: Lakeman Richard , McAndrew Sue , MacGabhann Liam , Warne Tony
Published: August 2012

There is considerable interest in the various ethical problems associated with undertaking health and social science research. Participants in such research are often considered vulnerable because of their health status, social position, or dependence on others for health and welfare services. Researchers and ethics committees pay scrupulous attention to the identification and amelioration of risks to participants. Rarely are the benefits to participants of engaging in research highlighted or drawn to the attention of potential participants. Such potential benefits need to be considered by researchers and reviewers when considering the balance of benefits and harms associated with research projects. In this paper, we particularly consider the psychotherapeutic benefits of participation in research.
Cumulative fatigue damage and life prediction of elastomeric components
Authors: ZARRIN‐GHALAMI T. , FATEMI A.
Published: August 2012

Elastomeric components are widely used in many applications due to their good damping and energy absorption characteristics. The type of loading normally encountered by these components in service is variable amplitude cyclic loading. Therefore, fatigue failure is a major consideration in their design. In this work capabilities of Rainflow cycle counting procedure, maximum principal strain as a damage criterion, and Miner's linear cumulative damage rule are evaluated with both specimen and component tests. An automotive cradle mount is used as an illustrative component. Comparison of predicted and experimental fatigue lives in both specimen and cradle mount variable amplitude load tests indicate satisfactory predictions in both cases.
Phage mutations in response to CRISPR diversification in a bacterial population
Authors: Sun Christine L. , Barrangou Rodolphe , Thomas Brian C. , Horvath Philippe , Fremaux Christophe , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: August 2012

Interactions between bacteria and their coexisting phage populations impact evolution and can strongly influence biogeochemical processes in natural ecosystems. Periodically, mutation or migration results in exposure of a host to a phage to which it has no immunity; alternatively, a phage may be exposed to a host it cannot infect. To explore the processes by which coexisting, co‐evolving hosts and phage populations establish, we cultured Streptococcus thermophilus DGCC7710 with phage 2972 and tracked CRISPR (clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats) diversification and host–phage co‐evolution in a population derived from a colony that acquired initial CRISPR‐encoded immunity. After 1 week of co‐culturing, the coexisting host–phage populations were metagenomically characterized using 454 FLX Titanium sequencing. The evolved genomes were compared with reference genomes to identify newly incorporated spacers in S. thermophilus DGCC7710 and recently acquired single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in phage 2972. Following phage exposure, acquisition of immune elements (spacers) led to a genetically diverse population with multiple subdominant strain lineages. Phage mutations that circumvented three early immunization events were localized in the proto‐spacer adjacent motif (PAM) or near the PAM end of the proto‐spacer, suggesting a strong selective advantage for the phage that mutated in this region. The sequential fixation or near fixation of these single mutations indicates selection events so severe that single phage genotypes ultimately gave rise to all surviving lineages and potentially carried traits unrelated to immunity to fixation.
Induction, rapid fixation and retention of mutations in vegetatively propagated banana
Authors: Jankowicz‐Cieslak Joanna , Huynh Owen A. , Brozynska Marta , Nakitandwe Joy , Till Bradley J.
Published: August 2012

Mutation discovery technologies have enabled the development of reverse genetics for many plant species and allowed sophisticated evaluation of the consequences of mutagenesis. Such methods are relatively straightforward for seed‐propagated plants. To develop a platform suitable for vegetatively propagated species, we treated isolated banana shoot apical meristems with the chemical mutagen ethyl methanesulphonate, recovered plantlets and screened for induced mutations. A high density of GC‐AT transition mutations were recovered, similar to that reported in seed‐propagated polyploids. Through analysis of the inheritance of mutations, we observed that genotypically heterogeneous stem cells resulting from mutagenic treatment are rapidly sorted to fix a single genotype in the meristem. Further, mutant genotypes are stably inherited in subsequent generations. Evaluation of natural nucleotide variation showed the accumulation of potentially deleterious heterozygous alleles, suggesting that mutation induction may uncover recessive traits. This work therefore provides genotypic insights into the fate of totipotent cells after mutagenesis and suggests rapid approaches for mutation‐based functional genomics and improvement of vegetatively propagated crops.