bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of assertiveness training for psychiatric patients
Authors: Lin Yen‐Ru , Wu Mei‐Hsuen , Yang Cheng‐I , Chen Tsai‐Hwei , Hsu Chen‐Chuan , Chang Yue‐Cune , Tzeng Wen‐Chii , Chou Yuan‐Hwa , Chou Kuei‐Ru
Published: October 2008

Aim and objectives.  To investigate the effectiveness of assertiveness training programmes on psychiatric patients’ assertiveness, self‐esteem and social anxiety.

Background.  Assertiveness training programmes are designed to improve an individual’s assertive beliefs and behaviours, which can help the individual change how they view themselves and establish self‐confidence and social anxiety. It is useful for patients with depression, depressive phase of bipolar disorder, anxiety disorder or adjustment disorder.

Design.  Experimental.

Method.  There were 68 subjects (28, experimental group; 40, diagnosis‐matched comparison group). Subjects in experimental groups participated in experimenter‐designed assertiveness training twice a week (two hours each) for four weeks. The comparison groups participated the usual activities. Data were collected in the two groups at the same time: before, after and one month after training programme. Efficacy was measured by assertiveness, self‐esteem and social anxiety inventories. A generalised estimating equation was used for analysis.

Results.  After training, subjects had a significant increase in assertiveness immediately after the assertiveness training programme and one‐month follow‐up. There was a significant decrease in social anxiety after training, but the improvement was not significant after one month. Self‐esteem did not increase significantly after training.

Conclusion.  With our sample of patients with mixed diagnoses, assertiveness seemed to be improved after assertiveness training.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Patients would benefit more from the assertiveness training programme for the change in how they view themselves, improve their assertiveness, properly express their individual moods and thoughts and further establish self‐confidence. The assertiveness training protocol could be provided as a reference guide to clinical nurses.
Diabetes foot self‐care practices in the German population
Authors: Schmidt Sascha , Mayer Herbert , Panfil Eva‐Maria
Published: October 2008

Aim.  The object of this study was to find out which self‐care activities patients with diabetes perform to prevent diabetic foot syndrome (DFS) and to look for differences between patient groups (diabetes education and foot at risk).

Background.  Besides the importance of screening patients at risk to develop a DFS and the clinical interventions, it is also necessary to involve the patient with diabetes in the self‐care of their feet. There is no information in Germany concerning self‐care activities carried out by patients for the prevention of DFS.

Design.  A cross‐sectional study.

Method.  A secondary analysis of the data used in the study for the development of the ‘Frankfurter Catalogue of Foot Self‐Care – Prevention of Diabetic Foot Syndrome’. Two hundred and sixty‐nine patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes were included. The study population was divided into different training experience groups and foot at risk groups based on self‐reported data.

Results.  Patients who had participated in more than three education programmes performed significantly better self‐care than patients who had no or only one training programme. Patients with a foot at risk for the development of diabetic foot ulcer perform more adequate self‐care regarding professional assistance in foot care, but are not more active in the self‐control of the feet, shoes and socks.

Conclusions.  There are self‐care deficits regarding self‐control of feet, shoes and socks. Based on the data it seems to be that more than three education programmes are needed to lead to performance of adequate self‐care. Especially patients with a foot at risk need more professional support for their daily self‐care activities to prevent DFS or further foot complications.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The first findings support that it might be helpful to identify patients with self‐care deficits and therefore to improve patients daily foot self‐care.
An expanded model of diabetes care based in an analysis and critique of current approaches
Authors: Daiski Isolde
Published: October 2008

Aims and objectives.  To examine and critique various models guiding the care and education of people with diabetes, to develop more helpful and effective approaches to care. The focus is on relationships and communication between patients and healthcare providers.

Background.  Many patients are not adhering to the recommended treatments, hence it seems that effective diabetes care is difficult to achieve, particularly for patients of lower socio‐economic status, who are disproportionately afflicted. The results are usually devastating, and lead to serious health complications that incisively diminish quality of life for patients with diabetes, frustrate healthcare providers and increase healthcare costs.

Design.  Critical review.

Method.  This paper represents a critical review of various approaches to diabetes care and education. A CINAHL search with relevant key words was carried out and selected exemplary research studies and articles describing and/or evaluating the various approaches to diabetes care and management were examined. Particular attention was paid to how the paradigmatic underpinnings of these approaches construct patient – healthcare provider relationships.

Conclusion.  The literature revealed that the traditional top‐down approaches to care were largely ineffective, while collaborative approaches, based in respect and taking the whole persons and their unique situations into account, were found to be central to good care. Further, an integration of the different kinds of knowledge contained in the various approaches can complement and extend one another.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Avoiding devastating complications by improving the management of diabetes and overall quality of life of patients is a worthwhile goal. Therefore expanding diabetes care beyond the traditional bio‐medical model to develop more effective approaches to care is of interest to all healthcare professionals working in this area.
Learning to live with type 1 diabetes from the perspective of young non‐western immigrants in Denmark
Authors: Povlsen Lene , Ringsberg Karin C
Published: October 2008

Aims and objectives.  To explore how young adults with a non‐western immigrant background and type 1 diabetes since childhood/adolescence have perceived learning to live with the disease, with special focus on health education and support.

Background.  A national Danish study found significantly poorer metabolic control in non‐western immigrant children and adolescents as compared with ethnic Danes. Subsequent studies have primarily focused on immigrant parents, whereas little is known about how immigrant children/adolescents have perceived the diagnosis and the diabetes care and support provided.

Design.  A mixed quantitative and qualitative design was applied. This included data on metabolic control for 2002–2006 and semi‐structured interviews in 2006 with eleven strategically selected young immigrants. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Findings.  The findings are described in three thematic categories: Perceptions and reactions at the time of diagnosis; Learning to manage the disease; Present and future life with diabetes. Some findings were similar to those in studies describing children and adolescents of western origin, but the participants also shared perceptions which appeared to be related to their immigrant background. Above all, they described their parents as having difficulty coping with the disease and providing them with sufficient support.

Conclusions.  The diagnosis of diabetes in immigrant children and adolescents requires special pedagogic and psychosocial approaches to bridge the gaps related to culture and traditions and introduce the concept of diabetes management, not least to the parents, in a more optimum way.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Diabetes care should be a continuous and holistic process, constantly aiming to explore existing knowledge and the need for additional education and support for both the patient and his/her family. Special attention should be paid to the fact that immigrants may have limited pre‐knowledge of chronic diseases in childhood, including the concept of selfcare.
Roles and functions of community mental health nurses caring for people with schizophrenia in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Xuan‐Yi , Ma Wei‐Fen , Shih Hsin‐Hsin , Li Huai‐Fen
Published: October 2008

Aims and objectives.  The study aimed to understand the nursing roles and functions of public health nurses and home health nurses in Taiwan and the factors that affect nursing roles and functions of nurses that provide community mental health home visiting services.

Background.  Although community nurses provide more psychiatric home visiting services than other psychiatric professionals, little research on their roles and functions has been conducted.

Design.  Nursing roles and functions were developed through use of grounded theory method of Strauss and Corbin.

Methods.  Data were collected using semi‐structured face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews and unstructured non‐participant observations. The constant comparative analysis continued during the open, axial and selective coding process until data saturation occurred. Participants were selected using theoretical sampling. Final sample size in this study comprised a total of 29 community nurses (18 public health nurses and 11 home health nurses) who provided community mental health home visiting. Public health nurses conducted a total of 16 (eight carers and eight clients) services and home health nurses conducted 16 (eight carers and eight clients) services.

Results.  Fourteen nursing roles were identified. These roles included assessor, supporter, educator, consultant, counselor, negotiator, harmoniser, collaborator, advocate, placement coordinator, resource provider, care provider, case manager and case finder. Moreover, several factors that affect nursing roles and functions in the community mental health home visiting service in Taiwan were also identified.

Conclusion.  This is the first study to identify the role of public health and home health nurses caring for people with schizophrenia in the community in Taiwan.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The recommendations based on the findings of this research can be used as a guide to improve the delivery of psychiatric home visiting services to community‐dwelling clients with schizophrenia and their carers.
The relationship between work empowerment and work stress perceived by nurses at long‐term care facilities in Taipei city
Authors: Li I‐Chuan , Chen Yu‐Ching , Kuo Huai‐Ting
Published: October 2008

Aim.  To explore the relationships between work empowerment, including both structural and psychological empowerment and work stress among nurses at long‐term care facilities in Taiwan.

Design.  Cross‐sectional design with a descriptive correlation.

Methods.  Work empowerment includes both psychological and structural empowerment; 178 nurses participated in the study.

Results.  The results of this study showed that the average age of the subjects was 35·5 years and that 56·2% of subjects had less than two years work experience in the facility. The results indicated that there was a moderate level of psychological empowerment (mean 59·9, SD 8·1) and structural empowerment (mean 59·2, SD 11·1). A moderate level of work stress was also found with an average score of 72·3 (SD 14·4). Both psychological empowerment and structural empowerment were found to be significantly associated with total work stress (r = −0·4, r  = −0·5, p < 0·001, respectively). The variables of age (standardised β = −0·1), resources (standardised β = −1·6), meaningful work (standardised β = −0·4) and impact (standardised β = −1·3) were significant predictors of work stress (R2 = 0·32, F = 17·3, p<0·001).

Conclusion.  Both psychological empowerment and structural empowerment were found to be significantly associated with work stress among nurses in this study. The four significant predictors of job satisfaction were age, resources, meaningful work and impact.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The managers of the facilities should provide available resources for nurses to accomplish work and to involve nurses in the development goals of the facilities to enhance their influence in the making of important changes within the organisation to decrease their work stress.
Health, utilisation of health services, ‘core’ information, and reasons for non‐participation: a triangulation study amongst non‐respondents
Authors: Näslindh‐Ylispangar Anita , Sihvonen Marja , Kekki Pertti
Published: October 2008

Aim.  To explore health, use of health services, ‘core’ information and reasons for non‐participation amongst males.

Background.  Gender may provide an explanation for non‐participation in the healthcare system. A growing body of research suggests that males are less likely than females to seek help from health professionals for their problems. The current research had its beginnings with the low response rate in a prior voluntary survey and health examination for Finnish males born in 1961.

Design.  Data triangulation among 28 non‐respondent middle‐aged males in Helsinki was used.

Methods.  The methods involved structured and in‐depth interviews and health measurements to explore the views of these males concerning their health‐related behaviours and use of health services.

Results.  Non‐respondent males seldom used healthcare services. Despite clinical risk factors (e.g. obesity and blood pressure) and various symptoms, males perceived their health status as good. Work was widely experienced as excessively demanding, causing insomnia and other stress symptoms. Males expressed sensitive messages when a session was ending and when the participant was close to the door and leaving the room. This ‘core’ information included major causes of concern, anxiety, fears and loneliness.

Conclusions.  This triangulation study showed that by using an in‐depth interview as one research strategy, more sensitive ‘feminist’ expressions in health and ill‐health were got by men. The results emphasise a male’s self‐perception of his masculinity that may have relevance to the health experience of the male population.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses and physicians need to pay special attention to the requirements of gender‐specific healthcare to be most effective in the delivery of healthcare to males.
Drug use and pressure ulcers in long‐term care units: do nurse time pressure and unfair management increase the prevalence?
Authors: Pekkarinen Laura , Sinervo Timo , Elovainio Marko , Noro Anja , Finne‐Soveri Harriet
Published: October 2008

Aims.  This study examined the associations between nurse working conditions (time pressure and perceived unfair management) and quality indicators (prevalence of antianxiety or hypnotic drug use and pressure ulcers) in long‐term care units.

Background.  Differences persist across long‐term care facilities in their care processes and resident outcomes even after adjusting for residents’ clinical conditions. Little is known about how nurses’ working conditions influence the quality of care.

Design.  Survey.

Methods.  Data on working conditions were drawn in 2002 from 724 nurses in 66 long‐term care units that reported quality indicators based on the Resident Assessment Instrument system as measured by Minimum Data Set. Percentage change in the quality indicators from 2002 were estimated using hierarchical multiple regression analyses with adjustments made for the baseline quality indicators (2001) and unit structural factors (unit size and staffing level).

Results.  Unit time pressure increased the prevalence of both quality problems (p‐values <0·05). Perceived unfair management was related to increased drug use (p = 0·038).

Conclusions.  The findings of this research suggest that quality of care can be improved by enhancing nurse working conditions.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Organisational initiatives should be aimed at reducing time pressures and promoting fair managerial procedures that engage all nursing staff in the decision‐making in long‐term care settings.
Patients’ views: improving care for people with fibromyalgia
Authors: Egeli Natasha A , Crooks Valorie A , Matheson Deborah , Ursa Marina , Marchant Elliott
Published: October 2008

Aim.  The purpose of this research is to provide healthcare professionals with patients’ views on improving care for people with fibromyalgia.

Background.  Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome that often challenges patients and healthcare professionals. Current literature suggests that the people with fibromyalgia are disempowered by their interactions with physicians. Soliciting patients’ suggestions for improving care can be helpful in identifying weaknesses and strengths in current physician–patient interactions, and in improving future care.

Methods.  Forty‐two participants with fibromyalgia submitted written responses to open‐ended questions about their experiences with physicians, and how care could be improved.

Results.  Positive interactions with physicians referenced care quality, feelings of respect and patient involvement. Negative interactions included receiving inadequate care, perceiving the physician to be uncaring and lacking knowledge of fibromyalgia.

Conclusions.  Unlike most research suggests, the majority of patients with fibromyalgia report having positive interactions with physicians. However, suggestions for improving care are similar throughout the literature, reinforcing the need for supportive care, empathetic listening and increased knowledge of alternative treatments.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Patients’ recommendations identified in this study can be implemented by nurses involved in providing supportive care and education to patients with fibromyalgia. Application of patients’ recommendations may facilitate the creation of therapeutic alliances and improve patients’ satisfaction with care.
Italian nurses’ perception of the avoidability of problems affecting older people with multiple chronic diseases
Authors: Saiani Luisa , Viviani Debora , Lenzi Elena , Chissalè Anna , Palese Alvisa
Published: October 2008

Aims.  The aim of this study was to discover whether problems experienced by older people with multiple chronic diseases were considered to be avoidable from the perspective of nurses.

Background.  The concept of avoidability is defined as ‘that which can be avoided’; when something is perceived as avoidable, action is taken ‘to prevent the occurrence’. It is possible that the nurses’ perception on the avoidability of problems in chronically‐ill older people, could have a role in the decisions they make about the most suitable type of care (e.g. therapeutic, preventive) while if they perceive a problem to be unavoidable they adopt palliative interventions. No literature is available on the factors that nurses take into account when judging whether a patient’s problem could be avoided or not, and no nursing diagnosis title includes the concept of an ‘unavoidable’ problem (e.g. unavoidable depression related to nursing home institutionalisation).

Design.  A phenomenological method was used to identify and understand the meaning of a human being’s experience by means of direct reporting and interviews.

Method.  Participants were forty 40 nurses working in homecare services and nursing homes in Northern Italy.

Findings.  Various factors were assumed to make certain problems inescapable, such as the interaction of multiple diseases, older people refusing care and inadequate surveillance. Other problems were judged to be completely or partially avoidable such as aspects relating to families’ reactions (the burden of providing care, family members’ inability to provide adequate care), and to healthcare management dysfunctions (poor exchange of information, limited resources).

Conclusion.  The nurses perceived they could only marginally modify the older person’s problems however, they could take action instead to improve the organisational processes, the involvement of family members, and their own skills and sense of purpose.

Relevance to clinical practice.  To reflect on unavoidable nursing problems and related factors is important for the potential consequences of clinical judgment on patients and on nursing care and for ethical implications. The factors affecting avoidable or unavoidable problems need strategic and individualised action to develop healthcare plans including the older people themselves, their families, and members of a multidisciplinary team and to provide adequate resources and educational programmes.
Differences in home‐based palliative care service utilisation of people with cancer and non‐cancer conditions
Authors: Kralik Debbie , Anderson Barbara
Published: October 2008

Aim.  To identify home‐based palliative care service utilisation by people with cancer and non‐cancer conditions.

Background.  Palliative care knowledge and skill have been derived from working with people with cancer. People with chronic conditions are now referred for home‐based palliative care; however, there has been few studies published that have explored the impact of service utilisation by people with end‐stage chronic conditions.

Design.  The Australia‐modified Karnofsky Performance Status (AKPS) scale was calculated for each person upon referral for home‐based palliative care services to determine the functional capacity of the individual at the point of referral. Clients were divided into those with cancer diagnosis and those with non‐cancer diagnosis. Service utilisation of the individual client was determined until separation from the palliative care service. The study was undertaken in 2007.

Findings.  The majority of people with cancer (63%) and non‐cancer (71%) were assessed as having an AKPS score between 50–60. Thirty‐one cancer clients (18·7%) and three non‐cancer clients (7·1%) had an AKPS score between 70–90. This suggests that people with cancer are referred to palliative care services earlier than people with non‐cancer conditions. People with non‐cancer conditions were substantially higher users of home‐based palliative care services over a longer period of time.

Conclusions.  Home‐based palliative care service utilisation was higher for people with non‐cancer conditions. Cost analysis research is recommended to delineate the actual costs of home‐based palliative care service provision between people with cancer and non‐cancer conditions.

Relevance to clinical practice.  There is growing awareness of the need for palliative care services for people with non‐cancer conditions. However, these services are provided for longer periods of time for this client group. Implications for practice are that the palliative care needs of people with non‐cancer conditions may not be met within current palliative care service provision. There may be funding implications for home‐based palliative care services that intend to meet the needs of people at end of life with non‐cancer conditions.
‘I have cystic fibrosis’: an analysis of web‐based disclosures of a chronic illness
Authors: Ravert Russell D , Crowell Toni L
Published: October 2008

Aim.  This study examined instances where individuals with cystic fibrosis disclosed their illness on the World Wide Web, better understand their experiences and needs across stages of the lifespan.

Background.  Disclosing one’s chronic illness is typically done purposefully, so examining those disclosures allows a naturalistic window into individuals’ experiences and needs. This study is unique to Internet‐based studies of chronic illness in that data are not limited to interactions at health‐related websites, but include disclosure instances gathered across a variety of Internet contexts.

Design.  Qualitative content analysis with a summative component was used.

Method.  A web‐based search engine was used to identify all web pages containing the phrases ‘I have cystic fibrosis’ and ‘I have cf’ (n = 277). Constant comparative analysis methods were used to identify thematic categories of context. Quantitative methods were used to examine age‐related differences in the distribution of those disclosure statements. Findings were interpreted within a framework of Erikson’s lifespan psychosocial theory.

Results.  Adolescents (13–18 years) most frequently expressed psychosocial concerns and enlisted social support. Emerging adults (19–25 years) tended to present cystic fibrosis as just one of many self‐characteristics. Adults (>25 years) tended to reach out to support others with cystic fibrosis.

Conclusions.  The study identified age‐related differences in the types of illness disclosures found among individuals with cystic fibrosis. It also demonstrated that web‐based research into chronic illness need not be limited to analysis of illness‐specific online communities.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Findings suggest that psychosocial interventions for individuals with cystic fibrosis across the lifespan might focus on (a) facilitating social support and incorporating illness into one’s emerging identity among adolescents, (b) supporting emerging adults in presenting and incorporating themselves into larger social networks and (c) partnering with adults who wish to mentor others living with cystic fibrosis.
Implementing feedback cards in core clerkships
Authors: Kogan Jennifer R , Shea Judy A
Published: October 2008

Context  Historically, medical students report receiving little formative feedback. Reports of feedback processes are generally limited to a single course or specialty. There is a paucity of research detailing feedback across the core clerkship year.

Objectives  We aimed to determine the feasibility of a cross‐clerkship feedback encounter card system, describe the content of feedback requested and received during the core clerkships, and examine student satisfaction with the feedback card system.

Methods  Students (n = 127) enrolled in six mandatory clerkships were required to complete feedback cards, twice weekly during inpatient rotations and once weekly during outpatient rotations. Students checked‐off areas in which they wanted to receive feedback and gave the card to a supervisor, who indicated areas in which feedback was provided. Descriptive statistics summarised completeness and feedback content. A two‐factor anova estimated differences between students’ perceptions of feedback usefulness pre‐ and post‐feedback card implementation.

Results  A total of 5369 feedback cards were completed in 2006 (78% of the target). Feedback about presentation skills (57% of cards) and fund of knowledge (48% of cards) were most frequently requested. On approximately 80% of the cards, students received feedback in the area(s) they had requested. During each clerkship, students requested feedback in most areas at least once. The mean rating of feedback usefulness was significantly lower after feedback card implementation (mean 3.6, standard deviation [SD] 1.1) than before implementation (mean 3.7, SD 1.0) (F = 11.022, P < 0.001, effect size = − 17).

Conclusions  Despite evidence that students received feedback multiple times, satisfaction was low. Research identifying factors that improve satisfaction with feedback during clinical training is needed.
Effect of plot geometry on epidemic velocity of wheat yellow rust
Authors: Sackett K. E. , Mundt C. C.
Published: October 2008

The size and shape of field plots can impact on both the cost and outcome of epidemiological experiments. In previous studies, epidemic velocity of yellow rust (caused by Puccinia striiformis f.sp. tritici) on wheat (Triticum aestivum) has been examined in long, narrow plots (6·1 m by 73–171 m). The present study compares spread in square, 61 × 61 m plots versus narrow, 6·1 × 61 m plots at two locations. The objective was to test whether plot shape has a substantial impact on spatiotemporal spread of yellow rust. Velocity increased curvilinearly with time for both plot shapes and at both locations. Curves of epidemic velocity versus time were nearly identical in square versus narrow plots in both the upwind and downwind directions. Contrary to expectation based on simulations, the results did not indicate faster disease spread in square plots, though the plot sizes studied may be beyond that at which there is a rapid change of disease increase with increasing plot area. Velocity also increased curvilinearly in all eight compass directions of the square plots. Results indicate that narrow plots, which are substantially less costly than equidimensional plots, may be justified for studying the spatiotemporal spread of wheat yellow rust and other diseases with similar epidemiological characteristics.
Serological and molecular detection of Tomato chlorosis virus and Tomato infectious chlorosis virus in tomato
Authors: Jacquemond M. , Verdin E. , Dalmon A. , Guilbaud L. , Gognalons P.
Published: October 2008

Tomato chlorosis virus (ToCV) and Tomato infectious chlorosis virus (TICV) are two criniviruses inducing similar yellowing symptoms in tomato. An approximately 4 kb central region of the genomic RNA2 of French ToCV and TICV isolates was sequenced. TICV, for which no other sequences were available, appeared as a distant species in the genus, being close only to LIYV (Lettuce infectious yellows virus) for some, but not all, proteins. ToCV has more than 98% nucleotide identity with isolates from the US and Spain, and sequencing the CP gene of several isolates collected in different regions in southern France during 2 years suggested a unique origin. Polyclonal antisera were produced using capsid proteins of both viruses expressed in Escherichia coli. DAS‐ELISA assays were developed for routine diagnosis and conditions for preparing samples for an optimized detection were determined. No cross‐reactions were observed. However, some false‐negative results, corresponding to samples giving ELISA readings close to the detection limit were regularly detected, particularly for ToCV (approximately 5% of the samples). A triplex RT‐PCR assay was thus developed, which allowed detection of both viruses in a one‐step protocol. An internal PCR control was included, which in addition showed that it could be used as a control for the entire RT‐PCR procedure. Finally, combining DAS‐ELISA in a first round, and triplex RT‐PCR for doubtful samples, appeared the best way to achieve a reliable diagnosis of these viruses.
Participation of glutathione in the elimination of Porphyromonas gingivalis in vivo
Authors: Kato C. , Mikami M. , Natsuno T.
Published: October 2008

Introduction:  Glutathione is involved in immune responses such as cell proliferation and bactericidal activity. The aim of this study was to see whether glutathione influences the intraperitoneal elimination of Porphyromonas gingivalis in Fusobacterium nucleatum‐immunized mice.

Methods:  Mice were immunized with P. gingivalis or F. nucleatum, and then P. gingivalis was inoculated into the peritoneal cavity of the mice. After various lengths of time, the numbers of bacteria were determined by a colony‐forming assay and by polymerase chain reaction. The effect of glutathione on the elimination of P. gingivalis was explored by changing the intracellular glutathione level. Furthermore, we examined the effects of glutathione on the peritoneal levels of interferon‐γ, a macrophage activator, and of nitrite, a derivative of nitric oxide that acts as an antimicrobial agent when produced by macrophages and neutrophils.

Results:  Inoculated P. gingivalis was eliminated more rapidly from F. nucleatum‐immunized mice than from P. gingivalis‐immunized mice. Interferon‐γ levels in peritoneal lavage fluid and glutathione levels in peritoneal exudate cells were higher in F. nucleatum‐immunized mice than in P. gingivalis‐immunized mice. When P. gingivalis‐immunized mice were given glutathione monoethylester (a derivative of glutathione that is converted to glutathione intracellularly through hydrolysis) into the peritoneal cavity, the elimination of P. gingivalis was accelerated. On the other hand, when F. nucleatum‐immunized mice were given l‐buthionine‐[S,R]‐sulfoximine (an inhibitor of glutathione synthesis) into the peritoneal cavity, the elimination of P. gingivalis was suppressed.

Conclusion:  In F. nucleatum‐immunized mice, glutathione may have a key role in the defense against P. gingivalis infections.
Biofilm formation and autoinducer‐2 signaling in Streptococcus intermedius: role of thermal and pH factors
Authors: Ahmed N. A. A. M. , Petersen F. C. , Scheie A. Aa.
Published: October 2008

Background/aim:  Bacteria sense their population density using autoinducer (AI) signaling systems. The AI‐2 signal is thought to mediate communication among and within bacterial species. Streptococcus intermedius is a commensal organism frequently associated with periodontitis and purulent infections. We investigated the role of AI‐2 signaling in S. intermedius biofilm formation under temperatures and pH levels relevant to human physiology.

Methods:  Bioluminescence was used to monitor the change in AI‐2 levels at various temperatures. Growth and biofilm formation in S. intermedius and its luxS mutant SI006 were measured at 35, 37, 39, and 41°C and in pH ranging from 5.7 to 7.5. To confirm the role of AI‐2 signals in biofilm formation, the AI‐2 precursor (S)‐4,5‐dihydroxy‐2,3‐pentanedione (DPD) was used to complement SI006 biofilm formation.

Results:  S. intermedius AI‐2 signals were detected at all growth temperatures but reached the highest levels at 37°C. SI006 displayed significantly less biofilm formation than S. intermedius wild‐type (WT); however, the role of AI‐2 on biofilm formation was confined to 37°C. DPD supplementation significantly increased SI006 biofilm formation to the S. intermedius WT level. The role of AI‐2 in S. intermedius biofilm formation was not influenced by pH. High temperatures and low pH enhanced biofilm formation in both S. intermedius and its luxS mutant.

Conclusions:  High temperature and acidic conditions may favor biofilm formation by S. intermedius. The role of AI‐2 in biofilm formation by S. intermedius, however, varies with physiological temperature changes. These results may assist in understanding possible behavior relative to health and disease.
Colonization of hard and soft surfaces by Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans under hydrodynamic conditions
Authors: Sliepen I. , Van Essche M. , Pauwels M. , Van Eldere J. , Hofkens J. , Quirynen M. , Teughels W.
Published: October 2008

Introduction:  Oral bacteria must attach to hard and soft tissues to colonize the oral cavity in the presence of a variety of forces caused by shear and flow. In vitro models mimicking this dynamic process are indispensable to study factors that might interfere with the first step towards infection. For extrapolation purposes the comparability between the dynamics of colonization on hard vs. soft surfaces needs to be evaluated.

Methods:  The colonization of glass and epithelial cell surfaces by the periodontal pathogen Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans was followed in time with two flow cell models: a modified Robbins device (MRD) and an in situ image analysis system.

Results:  The number of A. actinomycetemcomitans recovered from the soft surfaces in the MRD experiments was higher than on glass. The amount of bacteria on the hard surfaces kept increasing with time, while on soft surfaces saturation was reached. The microscope‐mounted flow cell allowed real‐time in situ monitoring of the colonization process of both surfaces.

Conclusion:  These experimental models may have a great contribution to make in the development of new treatment approaches for periodontal diseases. Colonization by A. actinomycetemcomitans could be studied under flow conditions and its dynamics showed important surface‐dependent characteristics.
Barley mutants with enhanced level of resistance to Swedish isolates of Bipolaris sorokiniana, casual agent of spot blotch
Authors: Persson M. , Rasmussen M. , Falk A. , Dixelius C.
Published: October 2008

Spot blotch, caused by Bipolaris sorokiniana, has become an increasingly important disease on barley in Sweden. In order to enhance our knowledge of this disease, eight Swedish B. sorokiniana isolates were assessed for their virulence pathotype on 30 barley genotypes including eight lines of mutant origin, designated B. sorokiniana tolerant (bst). A leaf screen assay revealed the presence of virulence groups 1 and 7 in Sweden. Several mutant genotypes demonstrated enhanced resistance responses (P = 0.0001), of which bst1:3 had the lowest leaf scoring value to the most virulent isolate, Swe2 (virulence group 7). To evaluate the host root responses, two contrasting isolates Swe2 and Swe4 (virulence group 7 and 1) were used to inoculate a set of eight differential lines, including four promising mutant lines from the leaf screen. Mutant bst1:6 was significantly less susceptible (P = 0.001) compared with the other barley genotypes tested, independent of the two isolates used. Mutants bst1, bst1:3 and bst1:4, which displayed less or no spots, are also considered promising genotypes for further breeding attempts.
Expression of the Orexigenic Peptide Ghrelin and the Type 1a Growth Hormone Secretagogue Receptor in Sheep Oocytes and Pre‐implantation Embryos Produced In Vitro
Authors: Du C , Li H , Cao G , Xilingaowa  , Wang C , Li C
Published: October 2008

Contents

Recent studies have implicated the peripheral actions of ghrelin in reproductive tissues. Here, we provide evidence that both ghrelin and its receptor GHSR‐1a (the type 1a growth hormone secretagogue receptor) are expressed at both mRNA and protein levels in sheep oocytes and pre‐implantation embryos produced in vitro. Real‐time RT‐PCR experiments confirmed that ghrelin mRNA levels varied depending on developmental stage, with the highest expression in metaphase II (MII) oocytes, higher expression at the 2‐cell stage, and minimal expression in germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes, 4‐ and 8‐cell stages, and in the blastocyst. The levels of GHSR‐1a mRNA decreased from GV to MII, increased immediately at the 2‐cell stage and then remained stable until the blastocyst stage. Ghrelin protein was detected mainly in the cytoplasm close to the plasma membrane in both inner cell mass and trophectoderm cells, while GHSR‐1a protein was most abundant in the plasma membrane. In conclusion, the presence of the ghrelin signalling system within the sheep oocytes and pre‐implantation embryos opens up the possibility of a potential regulatory role of this novel molecule in reproductive function.
Estrogen and urinary incontinence
Authors: Hirai Kozo , Tsuda Hiroshi
Published: October 2008

Abstracts

Hormone therapy (HT) has been one of the most commonly used methods to treat postmenopausal disorders including lower urinary tract symptoms such as urinary incontinence (UI). Although it has been suggested that HT improves urinary tract symptoms, little evidence has so far been presented to support this. Recently however, large randomized clinical trials have shown the adverse effects of estrogen on UI and indicate that HT should not be used for prevention or relief of UI in postmenopausal women. Here we review the effects of HT on UI in the light of these clinical trials.
Differential dependency on motion coherence in subregions of the human MT+ complex
Authors: Becker Hubertus G. T. , Erb Michael , Haarmeier Thomas
Published: October 2008

The detection of coherent motion embedded in noise has been widely used as a measure of global visual motion processing. Animal studies have demonstrated that this performance is closely linked to the responses of direction‐sensitive neurons in the macaque middle temporal (MT) and medial superior temporal (MST) areas. Despite the strong similarities between the visual cortex of human and that of non‐human primates, the human middle temporal complex (area MT+), located in the posterior part of the inferior temporal sulcus and presumably comprising both area MT and area MST, has not consistently been found to share the functional hallmark of MT and MST neurons, i.e. their preference for coherent rather than incoherent visual motion. In order to search for such preferences in human area MT+, blood oxygen level‐dependent responses to random dot kinematograms presented in the right visual hemifield were studied here as a function of stimulus size and dot density. The stimulus extensions were varied in such a way as to cover an area either equaling, exceeding or falling below the mean receptive field size of macaque area MT. Unlike the posterior part of human area MT+, the anterior part and its right‐hemisphere homolog showed significantly stronger responses to coherent than to incoherent motion. These differences were only present for large stimuli that presumably exceeded the receptive field size of neurons in area MT. Our results suggest that functional magnetic resonance imaging may reveal stronger responses to coherent visual motion in human area MST, provided that the stimulus allows for sufficient summation within the receptive fields. In contrast, functional magnetic resonance imaging may fail to reveal the same dependency for human area MT.
Depression‐like behaviour in neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM)‐deficient mice and its reversal by an NCAM‐derived peptide, FGL
Authors: Aonurm‐Helm Anu , Jurgenson Monika , Zharkovsky Tamara , Sonn Katrin , Berezin Vladimir , Bock Elisabeth , Zharkovsky Alexander
Published: October 2008

The neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) plays a pivotal role in brain plasticity. Brain plasticity itself has a crucial role in the development of depression. The aim of this study was to analyze whether NCAM‐deficient (NCAM−/−) mice exhibit depression‐like behaviour and whether a peptide termed FGL, derived from the NCAM binding site for the fibroblast growth factor (FGF) receptor, is able to reverse the depression‐like signs in NCAM−/− mice. Our study showed that NCAM−/− mice demonstrated increased freezing time in the tail‐suspension test and reduced preference for sucrose consumption in the sucrose preference test, reduced adult neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus and reduced levels of the phosphorylated cAMP response element‐binding protein (pCREB) in the hippocampus. FGL administered acutely or repeatedly reduced depression‐like behaviour in NCAM−/− mice without having an effect on their wild‐type littermates. Repeated administration of FGL enhanced survival of the newly born neurons in NCAM−/− mice and increased the levels of pCREB in both NCAM+/+ and NCAM−/− mice. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that NCAM deficiency in mice results in a depression‐like phenotype which can be reversed by the acute or repeated administration of FGL. The results also suggest a role of the deficit in NCAM signalling through the FGF receptor in depression.
Model of very fast (> 75 Hz) network oscillations generated by electrical coupling between the proximal axons of cerebellar Purkinje cells
Authors: Traub Roger D. , Middleton Steven J. , Knöpfel Thomas , Whittington Miles A.
Published: October 2008

Very fast oscillations (VFO; > 75 Hz) occur transiently in vivo, in the cerebellum of mice genetically modified to model Angelman syndrome, and in a mouse model of fetal alcohol syndrome. We recently reported VFO in slices of mouse cerebellar cortex (Crus I and II of ansiform and paramedian lobules), either in association with gamma oscillations (∼40 Hz, evoked by nicotine) or in isolation [evoked by nicotine in combination with γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)A receptor blockade]. The experimental data suggest a role for electrical coupling between Purkinje cells (blockade of VFO by drugs reducing gap junction conductance and spikelets in some Purkinje cells); and the data suggest the specific involvement of Purkinje cell axons (because of field oscillation maxima in the granular layer). We show here that a detailed network model (1000 multicompartment Purkinje cells) replicates the experimental data when gap junctions are located on the proximal axons of Purkinje cells, provided sufficient spontaneous firing is present. Unlike other VFO models, most somatic spikelets do not correspond to axonal spikes in the parent axon, but reflect spikes in electrically coupled axons. The model predicts gating of VFO frequency by gNa inactivation, and experiments prolonging this inactivation time constant, with β‐pompilidotoxin, are consistent with this prediction. The model also predicts that cerebellar VFO can be explained as an electrically coupled system of axons that are not intrinsic oscillators: the electrically uncoupled cells do not individually oscillate (in the model) and axonal firing rates are much lower in the uncoupled state than in the coupled state.
Evolution of the Canthonini Longitarsi (Scarabaeidae) in Madagascar
Authors: Wirta Helena , Montreuil Olivier
Published: October 2008

Dung beetle species belonging to the worldwide tribe Canthonini (Scarabaeidae) and occurring in Madagascar are all endemic to that island. The Malagasy Canthonini form three lineages, one of which is the group Longitarsi that includes five genera. The phylogenetic relationships of Malagasy Canthonini are not fully resolved and only few species of Longitarsi have been included in previous studies. Here we infer the phylogenetic relationships within the Longitarsi group using molecular data and together with morphological examination revise the systematics of the group. The five genera of the Longitarsi group form one monophyletic clade and thus we suggest the synonymization of the younger generaSikorantus,Phacosomoides,MadaphacosomaandAleiantus; with the oldest genus belonging to this cladeEpactoides. We describe two new species:Epactoides jouniisp. n andEpactoides mangabeensissp. n. Most of the species of Longitarsi inhabit the eastern rainforests, with very low local species diversity and highly restricted geographical ranges. In the group Longitarsi four species are wingless. The loss of wings has evolved at least twice, at high altitude along the mountain range.
Epidemiology and genetic susceptibility to bladder cancer
Authors: Wu Xifeng , Ros Martine M. , Gu Jian , Kiemeney Lambertus
Published: October 2008

The incidence of bladder cancer varies considerably among countries; the highest incidence rates are in Western communities. The variation in occurrence can partly be explained by differences in registration and coding practices of pTa tumours. Factors that modify the occurrence of bladder cancer are smoking and exposure to many kinds of carcinogenic substances in the workplace. Evidence also exists for radiotherapy to the pelvis, infection with Schistosoma haematobium, and certain medications as risk factors for bladder cancer. Despite enormous efforts, other important environmental or lifestyle factors that clearly and consistently increase or decrease the risk of bladder cancer have not been identified. Bladder cancer in first‐degree relatives doubles the risk of bladder cancer; this increased risk might be due to high‐penetrance susceptibility genes in a small subset of families, but most of this risk is probably caused by common lower‐penetrance DNA variants that influence risk through one or more different cancer pathways. In the next 2 years genome‐wide association scans will probably yield important new information on such variants. This might also facilitate new studies on lifestyle factors restricted to groups of susceptible people. In the future it will also be necessary to pay more attention to potential risk factors for different types of bladder cancer, more specifically low‐ vs high‐grade cancer. The ultimate goal is to build a risk‐prediction model by integrating environmental and genetic factors that can project individualized probabilities of developing bladder cancer.