bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Salivary flow rate and oral findings in Prader–Willi syndrome: a case‐control study
Authors: SAEVES RONNAUG , NORDGARDEN HILDE , STORHAUG KARI , SANDVIK LEIV , ESPELID IVAR
Published: June 2011

International Journal of Paediatric Dentistry 2011; 22: 27–36

Background.  Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) is a rare complex multisystemic genetic disorder.

Aim.  The objective of this study was to provide a systematic assessment of whole saliva secretion and oral manifestations associated with PWS.

Design.  Fifty individuals (5–40 years) with PWS and an age‐ and sex‐matched control group were included. Whole saliva was collected. All participants underwent an anamnestic interview. Radiological and dental clinical examinations were carried out to identify hypodontia, dental caries, enamel defects and gingival inflammation.

Results.  Mean whole salivary flow rate was 0.12 ± 0.11 mL/min in the study group compared with 0.32 ± 0.20 mL/min in the control group (P < 0.001). Hypodontia was significantly more common in PWS (P < 0.001), and dental caries in the age group >19 years was significantly lower in PWS (P = 0.04) compared with the controls. There was no significant difference in the prevalence of dental caries in the primary dentition or in the frequency of enamel defects in the permanent dentition between the two groups. Median Gingival Index was significantly higher in the Prader–Willi group compared with the controls (P = 0.02).

Conclusions.  Low salivary flow is a consistent finding in PWS. Nevertheless, despite dry mouth and dietary challenges, dental caries is not increased in Norwegian individuals with PWS.
Exploring the antipathy of nursing staff who work within secure healthcare facilities across the United Kingdom to young people who self‐harm
Authors: Dickinson Tommy , Hurley Margaret
Published: June 2011

dickinson t. & hurley m. (2012) Exploring the antipathy of nursing staff who work within secure healthcare facilities across the United Kingdom to young people who self‐harm. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(1), 147–158.

Aims.  This paper is a report of a study that compared relevant attitudinal dimensions of Registered Nurses and nursing aides working within a Young Offenders’ Institute and two young people’s forensic units in the United Kingdom towards young people in their care who self‐harm.

Background.  Nurses caring for young people within secure environments may engage at some point with patients who harm themselves. These staff often experience strong negative emotional reactions which can lead to antipathy and alienation.

Methods.  Forty seven Registered Nurses and 22 nursing aides completed the Self‐Harm Antipathy Scale, which consists of 30 attitudinal self‐report items. The data were collected between June 2008 and December 2008, and analysed using spss version 17.

Results.  Results displayed that age per se, length of service with self‐harming clients, and whether the participant was a Registered Nurse or nursing aide, and number of self‐harming clients worked with did not influence the Self‐Harm Antipathy Scale score or any of its component sub‐scores. However, field of nursing the nurse was registered under, previous study of self‐harm, year first registered and gender showed significant effects.

Conclusions.  Given that responses reflect a degree of both empathy and apathy it seems that there is a need to promote greater therapeutic alliances and communication; for example, the use of positive regard to help reduce the incidence of labelling and the negative effects this has upon relationships. There is a significant need for nursing staff working with young people who self‐harm to have access to relevant educational programmes. A focus on harm minimization could be key areas for further development.
Recruitment bias and characteristics of participants with severe cerebral palsy in a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Parkes Jackie , Donnelly Collette , McDowell Brona , Duffy Catherine
Published: June 2011

parkes j., donnelly c., mcdowell b. & duffy c. (2012) Recruitment bias and characteristics of participants with severe cerebral palsy in a cross‐sectional survey.Journal of Advanced Nursing 68(2), 368–378.

Aim. This article is a report of recruitment bias in a sample of 5–25‐year‐old patients with severe cerebral palsy.

Background. The way in which study participants are recruited into research can be a source of bias.

Method. A cross‐sectional survey of 5–25‐year‐old patients with severe cerebral palsy using standardized questionnaires with parents/carers was undertaken in 2007/2008. A case register was used as the sampling frame, and 260 families were approached: 178/260 (68%) responded and 82/260 families never replied (non‐respondents). Among responders: 127/178 (71%) opted in to the study, but only 123/127 were assessed, and 82/178 were opted out (or refused). Multivariable logistic regression giving odds ratios was used to study the association between participant characteristics and study outcomes (responders vs. non‐responders; opting in vs. opting out; assessed vs. eligible, but not assessed).

Results. Responders (compared with non‐responders) were significantly more likely to have a family member with cerebral palsy who was male and resident in more affluent areas. Families who opted in (compared with those opting out and refusing) were more likely to have a family member with cerebral palsy and intellectual impairment and to reside in certain geographical areas. Families who were actually assessed (compared with all eligible, but not assessed) were more likely to have a family member with cerebral palsy and intellectual impairment.

Conclusion. Several sources of bias were identified during recruitment for this study. This has implications for the interpretation and conclusions of surveys of people with disabilities and complex needs.
Changes in quality of life among newly diagnosed breast cancer patients in Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Sue‐Yueh , Lai Yeur‐Hur , Chen Shu‐Ching , Shun Shiow‐Ching , Liao Yuan‐Mei , Tu Shih‐Hsin , Chen Ching‐Shyang , Hsiang Chao‐Ying , Chen Ching‐Min
Published: June 2011

Aim.  To examine changes in quality of life among patients with breast cancer and factors related to it, during the first three months after diagnosis.

Background.  Numerous studies have examined quality of life among cancer survivors or among patients with cancer after aggressive treatment; such research has demonstrated that quality of life in the third month after surgery can significantly predict quality of life in the long run. In contrast, changes in quality of life causes among patients during the acute treatment phase have not been well studied.

Design.  Prospective longitudinal study.

Methods.  Newly diagnosed patients with breast cancer were recruited during 2008–2009. Sixty‐one cases completed the four data collections on the day before operation and one, two and three months after surgery. Data were collected using the Functional Living Index‐Cancer, Symptom Distress Scale, the Self‐Efficacy Scale and a 0–10 Anxiety Numeric Rating Scale. Generalized Estimating Equations were applied for data analysis.

Results.  There were significant changes in quality of life over the three months following surgery, and the worst quality of life was observed in the first month after surgery. Less advanced stages of cancer, lower anxiety, less symptom distress and higher perceived self‐efficacy in the preoperative interview could significantly predict which patients experienced more positive quality of life trends. Fatigue, limited shoulder function and perceived poor appearance were the most significant factors predicting changes of quality of life.

Conclusion.  Preoperative physical and psychological factors, as well as sense of self‐efficacy for managing the cancer, are important factors for predicting changes in patients’ quality of life.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Healthcare providers should be alert to factors contributing to changes of quality of life among patients receiving chemotherapy. Interventions based on these results should be developed and their effectiveness tested for their impact on breast cancer patients’ quality of life. Clinical interventions based on these results should be developed to improve breast cancer patients’ quality of life.
A randomised controlled clinical trial of repositioning, using the 30° tilt, for the prevention of pressure ulcers
Authors: Moore Zena , Cowman Seamus , Conroy Ronán M
Published: June 2011

Background.  Pressure ulcers are common, costly and impact negatively on individuals. Pressure is the prime cause, and immobility is the factor that exposes individuals to pressure. International guidelines advocate repositioning; however, there is confusion surrounding the best method and frequency required.

Design.  A pragmatic, multi‐centre, open label, prospective, cluster‐randomised controlled trial was conducted to compare the incidence of pressure ulcers among older persons nursed using two different repositioning regimens.

Method.  Ethical approval was received. Study sites (n = 12) were allocated to study arm using cluster randomisation. The experimental group (n = 99) were repositioned three hourly at night, using the 30° tilt; the control group (n = 114) received routine prevention (six‐hourly repositioning, using 90° lateral rotation). Data analysis was by intention to treat; follow‐up was for four weeks.

Results.  All participants (n = 213) were Irish and white, among them 77% were women and 65% aged 80 years or older. Three patients (3%) in the experimental group and 13 patients (11%) in the control group developed a pressure ulcer (p = 0·035; 95% CI 0·031–0·038; ICC = 0·001). All pressure ulcers were grade 1 (44%) or grade 2 (56%). Mobility and activity were the highest predictors of pressure ulcer development (β = −0·246, 95% CI = −0·319 to −0·066; p = 0·003); (β = 0·227, 95% CI = 0·041–0·246; p = 0·006).

Conclusion.  Repositioning older persons at risk of pressure ulcers every three hours at night, using the 30° tilt, reduces the incidence of pressure ulcers compared with usual care. The study supports the recommendations of the 2009 international pressure ulcer prevention guidelines.

Relevance to clinical practice.  An effective method of pressure ulcer prevention has been identified; in the light of the problem of pressures ulcers, current prevention strategies should be reviewed. It is important to implement appropriate prevention strategies, of which repositioning is one.
Lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well‐being of Chinese adolescents in Hong Kong and Guangzhou, China: a cross‐sectional comparative survey
Authors: Lee Regina LT , Loke Alice Yuen
Published: June 2011

Aims.  To describe and compare the lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well‐being of Chinese adolescents aged 10–19 in the two cities of Hong Kong and Guangzhou and to identify the factors that most influence adolescents’ lifestyle patterns in these two cities.

Background.  Health‐promoting lifestyle behaviours of adolescents are influenced by economic growth and societal changes.

Design.  A cross‐sectional comparative survey.

Methods.  The Chinese version of the Adolescent Lifestyle Questionnaire was used to measure the adolescents’ lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well‐being in the primary and secondary schools.

Results.  A total of 2014 adolescents aged 10–19 responded to the survey in Hong Kong (n = 1008) and Guangzhou (n = 1006). Adolescents in Guangzhou practised healthier lifestyle behaviours and psychosocial well‐being than adolescents in Hong Kong, with statistically significant differences in all the seven dimensions. Adolescents in Guangzhou, when compared with those in Hong Kong, obtained higher mean scores in ‘physical participation’ (9·6 vs. 8·9, p < 0·001), ‘nutrition’ (20·2 vs. 17·6, p < 0·001), ‘social support’ (19·6 vs. 18·9, p = 0·001), ‘stress management’ (9·6 vs. 9·3, p = 0·022), ‘identity awareness’ (25·7 vs. 23·5, p < 0·001), ‘health practices awareness’ (9·2 vs. 8·3, p < 0·001) and ‘safety’ (21·6 vs. 20·6, p < 0·001). Demographic factors that contributed to adolescents’ lifestyle behaviours were living in Guangzhou (OR = 1·92, 95% CI 1·56, 2·44), being in the younger age group (10–14 years old) (OR = 2·44, 95% CI 2·00, 3·03) and living with both parents (OR = 1·92, 95% CI 1·12, 3·27).

Conclusions.  Socio‐economic disparities, family composition and age group are the key factors associated with adolescents’ healthy lifestyle behaviours. Further research is needed to understand the complex causal pathways between ethnicity, social environment and health behaviours.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Parental lifestyles inevitably influence the lifestyles of their young. Therefore, nurses should emphasise the health education of both parents and youth as future parents and support parents in modelling health‐promoting lifestyles.
Adherence to a sodium‐restricted diet is associated with lower symptom burden and longer cardiac event‐free survival in patients with heart failure
Authors: Son Youn‐Jung , Lee Yongjik , Song Eun Kyeung
Published: June 2011

Aim.  To determine whether adherence to a sodium‐restricted diet affects symptom burden and cardiac event‐free survival in patients with heart failure.

Background.  The recommendation of an sodium‐restricted diet is a standard component of HF management. Therefore, it is important to investigate whether adherence to sodium‐restricted diet is actually associated with improvements in symptom burden and cardiac event‐free survival.

Design.  A prospective cohort study.

Methods.  A total of 232 patients [71% male, 65 ± 10 years, 63% New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV, ejection fraction (EF) 30 ± 9%] with HF received 24‐hour urinary sodium excretion (24‐hr UNa) assessments and were divided into two groups using a cut‐off value of 3 g 24‐hr UNa. Symptom burden, including the frequency and severity of heart failure symptoms, was assessed according to the modified Memorial Symptom Assessment Scale‐Heart Failure with a higher score indicating a greater symptom burden. Cardiac event‐free survival over a 12‐month period was determined by reviewing medical records.

Results.  Patients with 24‐hr UNa ≥ 3 g exhibited greater symptom burdens (β = 0·23, p < 0·001) in hierarchical linear regression analyses and shorter cardiac event‐free survival [hazard ratio = 1·81, 95% confidence interval = 1·17–2·80) than patients with 24‐hr UNa < 3 g in hierarchical Cox hazards regressions, after controlling for age, gender, HF aetiology, body mass index, NYHA class, EF, and total comorbidity score.

Conclusions.  If sodium intake is limited to less than 3 g/day, symptom burden and clinical health outcomes can be improved in HF patients.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health care providers need to help patients understand the rationale for an sodium‐restricted diet to prevent worsening heart failure symptoms and unnecessary cardiac events. Continuous monitoring for dietary sodium intake as well as worsening heart failure symptoms should be emphasised in patient education.
Psychosocial processes influencing weight management among persons newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications
Authors: XIAO S. , BAKER C. , OYEWUMI L. K.
Published: June 2011

Accessible summary

The purpose of the study was to generate a theory related to the psychosocial processes of weight management among persons newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications, to develop better early intervention weight management programmes.

Through 16 interviews with persons with first‐episode psychosis and schizophrenia, it was found that they faced a variety of barriers to weight management: inaccessibility of resources such as financial and geographical obstacles to healthier foods and exercise facilities, a lack of structure in their lifestyle, rapidity of weight gain following the initiation of the medication, insatiable hunger and a lack of supporting factors to increase their motivation.

Many participants initially responded to the effects of weight gain by discontinuing their medications, choosing lower‐calorie foods, using walking in their daily activities as exercise, accepting their weight gain and trying to manage their weight but giving up. The consequences of these actions were that participants either contemplated but did not implement weight management, or did not attempt weight management at all.

It is hypothesized that the theory developed through this study can assist with the understanding and management of weight gain among this population.

The purpose was to generate a theory of the psychosocial processes influencing weight management among persons newly prescribed atypical antipsychotic medications. A grounded theory research design was used to guide the study. Semi‐structured interviews were the method of data collection, and analysis was performed using constant comparison. Using theoretical sampling, a sample of 11 participants with first‐episode psychosis prescribed atypical antipsychotics for at least 8 weeks, and five participants with a diagnosis of chronic schizophrenia prescribed atypical antipsychotic medication for at least 3 years were recruited from an outpatient psychiatric programme. Contextual factors influencing weight management were: accessibility to resources, unstructured lifestyle, and others' perception of weight. Conditions influencing weight management were: rapid weight gain, insatiable hunger and lack of motivation boosters. Participants' early responses to weight gain included discontinuing medications, choosing lower‐calorie foods, using walking in daily activities as exercise, accepting weight gain and trying to manage weight but giving up. The consequences revealed from data analysis were contemplating weight management and not trying, as the barriers to weight management exceeded the facilitators. The theoretical framework developed in this study can assist with the understanding and management of weight gain among this unique population.
The lower esophageal sphincter
Authors: Hershcovici T. , Mashimo H. , Fass R.
Published: June 2011

The lower esophageal sphincters (LES) together with the crural diaphragm are the major antireflux barriers protecting the esophagus from reflux of gastric content. However, reflux of gastric contents into the esophagus is a normal phenomenon in healthy individuals occurring primarily during episodes of transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation (TLESR), defined as LES relaxation in the absence of a swallow. Transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxation is also the dominant mechanism of pathologic reflux in gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD) patients. Frequency of TLESR does not differ significantly between healthy individuals and those with GERD, but TLESRs are more likely to be associated with acid reflux in GERD patients. Understanding the mechanisms responsible for elicitation of a TLESR, using recently introduced novel technology is an area of intense interest. Pharmacologic and non‐pharmacologic manipulation of receptors involved in the control of TLESR has recently emerged as a potential target for GERD therapy.
High‐resolution spatial analysis of slow wave initiation and conduction in porcine gastric dysrhythmia
Authors: O’Grady G. , Egbuji J. U. , Du P. , Lammers W. J. E. P. , Cheng L. K. , Windsor J. A. , Pullan A. J.
Published: June 2011

Background  The significance of gastric dysrhythmias remains uncertain. Progress requires a better understanding of dysrhythmic behaviors, including the slow wave patterns that accompany or promote them. The aim of this study was to use high‐resolution spatiotemporal mapping to characterize and quantify the initiation and conduction of porcine gastric dysrhythmias.

Methods  High‐resolution mapping was performed on healthy fasted weaner pigs under general anesthesia. Recordings were made from the gastric serosa using flexible arrays (160–192 electrodes; 7.6 mm spacing). Dysrhythmias were observed to occur in 14 of 97 individual recordings (from 8 of 16 pigs), and these events were characterized, quantified and classified using isochronal mapping and animation.

Key Results  All observed dysrhythmias originated in the corpus and fundus. The range of dysrhythmias included incomplete conduction block (n = 3 pigs; 3.9 ± 0.5 cpm; normal range: 3.2 ± 0.2 cpm) complete conduction block (n = 3; 3.7 ± 0.4 cpm), escape rhythm (n = 5; 2.0 ± 0.3 cpm), competing ectopic pacemakers (n = 5, 3.7 ± 0.1 cpm) and functional re‐entry (n = 3, 4.1 ± 0.4 cpm). Incomplete conduction block was observed to self‐perpetuate due to retrograde propagation of wave fragments. Functional re‐entry occurred in the corpus around a line of unidirectional block. ‘Double potentials’ were observed in electrograms at sites of re‐entry and at wave collisions.

Conclusions & Inferences  Intraoperative multi‐electrode mapping of fasted weaner healthy pigs detected dysrhythmias in 15% of recordings (from 50% of animals), including patterns not previously reported. The techniques and findings described here offer new opportunities to understand the nature of human gastric dysrhythmias.
Functional genomics approaches in parasitic helminths
Authors: HAGEN J. , LEE E. F. , FAIRLIE W. D. , KALINNA B. H.
Published: June 2011

As research on parasitic helminths is moving into the post‐genomic era, an enormous effort is directed towards deciphering gene function and to achieve gene annotation. The sequences that are available in public databases undoubtedly hold information that can be utilized for new interventions and control but the exploitation of these resources has until recently remained difficult. Only now, with the emergence of methods to genetically manipulate and transform parasitic worms will it be possible to gain a comprehensive understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in nutrition, metabolism, developmental switches/maturation and interaction with the host immune system. This review focuses on functional genomics approaches in parasitic helminths that are currently used, to highlight potential applications of these technologies in the areas of cell biology, systems biology and immunobiology of parasitic helminths.
Cytokine gene expression at the materno‐foetal interface after experimental Neospora caninum infection of heifers at 110 days of gestation
Authors: ALMERÍA S. , ARAUJO R. N. , DARWICH L. , DUBEY J. P. , GASBARRE L. C.
Published: June 2011

Neospora caninum is a major cause of abortion in cattle, but the reasons why only some animals abort remain unclear. The immunological control of the parasite in the placenta or by the foetus could be the key to determining the mechanism of abortion and/or transplacental transmission to the foetus. In this study, cytokine gene expression, analysed by real‐time RT‐PCR, at the maternal (caruncle) and foetal placenta (cotyledon) of heifers infected at 110 days of gestation by intravenous inoculation of N. caninum tachyzoites was compared with the responses in uninfected heifers. Animals were euthanized 3 weeks after infection. Upregulated Th1, Th2 and T‐regulatory (Treg) cytokine gene expression was observed in both the maternal and the foetal placenta in the infected group. In the caruncle of infected animals, the main changes included upregulation of IFN‐γ, IL‐12p40, IL‐6 and IL‐10. In the cotyledon, the main changes included upregulation of IFN‐γ and downregulation of TGF‐β, being the later the only cytokine downregulated in the infected group. The observed cytokine expression pattern was associated with alive but transplacentally infected foetuses, suggesting that such cytokine pattern is beneficial to foetal survival, but could have a role in the transplacental transmission of the parasite.
Adoptive transfer of dendritic cells isolated from helminth‐infected mice enhanced T regulatory cell responses in airway allergic inflammation
Authors: LIU J. ‐Y. , LI L. ‐Y. , YANG X. ‐Z. , LI J. , ZHONG G. , WANG J. , LI L. ‐J. , JI B. , WU Z. ‐Q. , LIU H. , YANG X. , LIU P. ‐M.
Published: June 2011

Our and others’ previous studies have shown that Schistosoma japonicum (SJ) infection can inhibit allergic reactions. Moreover, we found that adoptive transfer of dendritic cells (DCs) from inhibited mice showed a similar inhibitory effect on allergy, suggesting a critical role of DCs in SJ‐infected mediated inhibition of allergy. In this study, we further examined the mechanism by which DCs contribute to inhibition of allergy. Our results showed that DCs from SJ‐infected mice (SJDCs) produced significantly higher levels of IL‐10 compared to those from naive control mice (NDCs). Adoptive transfer of SJDCs, unlike NDCs, significantly increased CD4+CD25+Foxp3+ T cells and CD4+CD25+IL‐10+ T cells regulatory T‐cell responses in vivo. This was correlated with significantly reduced production of IL‐4 and IL‐5 by CD4+ T cells, eotaxin in lung tissues and reduced airway allergic inflammation in the SJDC recipients following allergen sensitization and challenge. These data suggest that helminth infection may induce tolerogenic DCs that can inhibit the development of airway allergic inflammation through enhancing T regulatory cell responses.
Influence of β‐glucan on innate immunity and resistance of Lutjanus guttatus to an experimental infection of dactylogyrid monogeneans
Authors: DEL RIO‐ZARAGOZA O. B. , FAJER‐ÁVILA E. J. , ALMAZÁN‐RUEDA P.
Published: June 2011

The present study investigated the effect of β‐1,3/1,6‐glucan on growth, haematology, innate immunity and resistance against dactylogyrids on the spotted rose snapper (Lutjanus guttatus). Fish were fed during 5 weeks with commercial diet (control group) and same diet supplemented with three levels of β‐glucans (0·05%, 0·1% and 0·5%/kg feed). The results showed that at concentrations of 0·05% and 0·1%, fish growth was enhanced, and in weeks 2 and 4, an increase in cellular responses such as percentage of monocytes, neutrophils, respiratory burst activity and nitric oxide activity was observed. In diet with 0·5%β‐glucans, changes were registered at the end of the experiment. At week 2, 0·05%β‐glucans showed the best response to most of the analysed parameters. In a second trial, diet with 0·05%β‐glucans was chosen to prove its effect on the resistance of infected fish with monogeneans. The results showed that fish reduce significantly the number of dactylogyrids, and parameters such as WBC, percentage of lymphocytes, neutrophils and eosinophils were increased. In addition, WBC and percentage of thrombocytes increased in the control (+). The β‐glucans have the potential to be use in diet formulations of the spotted rose snapper and to limit the adverse effects of dactylogyrids.
Are gas exchange responses to resource limitation and defoliation linked to source:sink relationships?
Authors: PINKARD E. A. , EYLES A. , O'GRADY A. P.
Published: June 2011

Productivity of trees can be affected by limitations in resources such as water and nutrients, and herbivory. However, there is little understanding of their interactive effects on carbon uptake and growth. We hypothesized that: (1) in the absence of defoliation, photosynthetic rate and leaf respiration would be governed by limiting resource(s) and their impact on sink limitation; (2) photosynthetic responses to defoliation would be a consequence of changing source:sink relationships and increased availability of limiting resources; and (3) photosynthesis and leaf respiration would be adjusted in response to limiting resources and defoliation so that growth could be maintained. We tested these hypotheses by examining how leaf photosynthetic processes, respiration, carbohydrate concentrations and growth rates of Eucalyptus globulus were influenced by high or low water and nitrogen (N) availability, and/or defoliation. Photosynthesis of saplings grown with low water was primarily sink limited, whereas photosynthetic responses of saplings grown with low N were suggestive of source limitation. Defoliation resulted in source limitation. Net photosynthetic responses to defoliation were linked to the degree of resource availability, with the largest responses measured in treatments where saplings were ultimately source rather than sink limited. There was good evidence of acclimation to stress, enabling higher rates of C uptake than might otherwise have occurred.
Phloem unloading follows an extensive apoplasmic pathway in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.) fruit from anthesis to marketable maturing stage
Authors: HU LIPING , SUN HUIHUI , LI RUIFU , ZHANG LINGYUN , WANG SHAOHUI , SUI XIAOLEI , ZHANG ZHENXIAN
Published: June 2011

The phloem unloading pathway remains unclear in fruits of Cucurbitaceae, a classical stachyose‐transporting species with bicollateral phloem. Using a combination of electron microscopy, transport of phloem‐mobile symplasmic tracer carboxyfluorescein, assays of acid invertase and sucrose transporter, and [14C]sugar uptake, the phloem unloading pathway was studied in cucumber (Cucumis sativus) fruit from anthesis to the marketable maturing stage. Structural investigations showed that the sieve element–companion cell (SE–CC) complex of the vascular bundles feeding fruit flesh is apparently symplasmically restricted. Imaging of carboxyfluorescein unloading showed that the dye remained confined to the phloem strands of the vascular bundles in the whole fruit throughout the stages examined. A 37 kDa acid invertase was located predominantly in the cell walls of SE–CC complexes and parenchyma cells. Studies of [14C]sugar uptake suggested that energy‐driven transporters may be functional in sugar trans‐membrane transport within symplasmically restricted SE–CC complex, which was further confirmed by the existence of a functional plasma membrane sucrose transporter (CsSUT4) in cucumber fruit. These data provide a clear evidence for an apoplasmic phloem unloading pathway in cucumber fruit. A presumption that putative raffinose or stachyose transporters may be involved in soluble sugars unloading was discussed.
Nutritional benefit from leaf litter utilization in the pitcher plant Nepenthes ampullaria
Authors: PAVLOVIČ ANDREJ , SLOVÁKOVÁ ĽUDMILA , ŠANTRŮČEK JIŘÍ
Published: June 2011

The pitcher plant Nepenthes ampullaria has an unusual growth pattern, which differs markedly from other species in the carnivorous genus Nepenthes. Its pitchers have a reflexed lid and sit above the soil surface in a tighly packed ‘carpet’. They contain a significant amount of plant‐derived materials, suggesting that this species is partially herbivorous. We tested the hypothesis that the plant benefits from leaf litter utilization by increased photosynthetic efficiency sensu stricto cost/benefit model. Stable nitrogen isotope abundance indicated that N. ampullaria derived around 41.7 ± 5.5% of lamina and 54.8 ± 7.0% of pitcher nitrogen from leaf litter. The concentrations of nitrogen and assimilation pigments, and the rate of net photosynthesis (AN), increased in the lamina as a result of feeding, but did not increase in the trap. However, maximal (Fv/Fm) and effective photochemical quantum yield of photosystem II (ΦPSII) were unaffected. Our data indicate that N. ampullaria benefits from leaf litter utilization and our study provides the first experimental evidence that the unique nitrogen sequestration strategy of N. ampullaria provides benefits in term of photosynthesis and growth.
Differential response of young and adult leaves to herbicide 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid in pea plants: role of reactive oxygen species
Authors: PAZMIÑO DIANA M. , RODRÍGUEZ‐SERRANO MARÍA , ROMERO‐PUERTAS MARÍA C. , ARCHILLA‐RUIZ ANGUSTIAS , DEL RÍO LUIS A. , SANDALIO LUISA M.
Published: June 2011

In this work the differential response of adult and young leaves from pea (Pisum sativum L.) plants to the herbicide 2,4‐dichlorophenoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D) (23 mm) applied by foliar spraying was investigated. The concentration of 2,4‐D (23 mm) and the time of treatment (72 h) were previously optimized in order to visualize its toxic effects on pea plants. Under these conditions, the herbicide induced severe disturbances in mesophyll cells structure and proliferation of vascular tissue in young leaves and increased acyl‐CoA oxidase (ACX), xanthine oxidase (XOD) and lipoxygenase (LOX) activities in young leaves, and only ACX and LOX in adult leaves. This situation produced reactive oxygen species (ROS) over‐accumulation favoured by the absence of significant changes in the enzymatic antioxidants, giving rise to oxidative damages to proteins and membrane lipids. An increase of ethylene took place in both young and adult leaves and the induction of genes encoding the stress proteins, PRP4A and HSP 71,2, was observed mainly in young leaves. These results suggest that ROS overproduction is a key factor in the effect of high concentrations of 2,4‐D, and ROS can trigger a differential response in young and adult leaves, either epinasty development in young leaves or senescence processes in adult tissues.
Allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) induces stomatal closure in Arabidopsis
Authors: KHOKON MD. ATIQUR RAHMAN , JAHAN MD. SARWAR , RAHMAN TANIYA , HOSSAIN MOHAMMAD ANOWAR , MUROYAMA DAICHI , MINAMI IKUKO , MUNEMASA SHINTARO , MORI IZUMI C. , NAKAMURA YOSHIMASA , MURATA YOSHIYUKI
Published: June 2011

Isothiocyanates (ITCs) are degradation products of glucosinolates in crucifer plants and have repellent effect on insects, pathogens and herbivores. In this study, we report that exogenously applied allyl isothiocyanate (AITC) induced stomatal closure in Arabidopsis via production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and nitric oxide (NO), and elevation of cytosolic Ca2+. AITC‐induced stomatal closures were partially inhibited by an inhibitor of NADPH oxidase and completely inhibited by glutathione monoethyl ester (GSHmee). AITC‐induced stomatal closure and ROS production were examined in abscisic acid (ABA) deficient mutant aba2‐2 and methyl jasmonate (MeJA)‐deficient mutant aos to elucidate involvement of endogenous ABA and MeJA. Genetic evidences have demonstrated that AITC‐induced stomatal closure required MeJA priming but not ABA priming. These results raise the possibility that crucifer plants produce ITCs to induce stomatal closure, leading to suppression of water loss and invasion of fungi through stomata.
The use of digital image analysis and real‐time PCR fine‐tunes bioassays for quantification of Cercospora leaf spot disease in sugar beet breeding
Authors: De Coninck B. M. A. , Amand O. , Delauré S. L. , Lucas S. , Hias N. , Weyens G. , Mathys J. , De Bruyne E. , Cammue B. P. A.
Published: June 2011

Cercospora leaf spot, caused by the fungus Cercospora beticola, is a major fungal sugar beet disease worldwide and the cause of significant yield losses. The disease is most successfully countered by the introduction of genetic tolerance into elite sugar beet hybrids. To this end, breeding programmes require high quality biological assays allowing discrimination of minor differences between plants within a segregating population. This study describes the successful implementation of image analysis software in the bioassays for quantification of necrotic lesions at different stages of C. beticola infection, allowing selection on minor phenotypic differences during the sugar beet breeding process for C. beticola resistance. In addition, a real‐time PCR assay was developed for the quantification of C. beticola pathogen biomass in infected beet canopy. The use of both techniques, even in an early stage of infection, fine‐tunes current bioassays, allowing more accurate and efficient selection of resistant breeding material.
CD44/CD70 Blockade and Anti‐CD154/LFA‐1 Treatment Synergistically Suppress Accelerated Rejection and Prolong Cardiac Allograft Survival in Mice
Authors: Shao W. , Yan G. , Lin Y. , Chen J. , Dai H. , Wang F. , Xi Y. , Thorlacius H. , Qi Z.
Published: June 2011

Current treatments that are efficient in controlling effector T cell responses to allografts have limited efficacy on the accelerated rejection mediated by memory T cells. Effective targeting of alloreactive memory T cells may therefore be explored to improve therapeutic approaches towards solving this problem. In this study, we investigated the synergistic effect of CD44/CD70 blockade and anti‐CD154/LFA‐1 treatment on the accelerated rejection mediated by memory T cells. While CD44/CD70 blockade had limited effects on the alloresponses of effector T cells in vivo, it diminished the expansion of both CD4+ and CD8+ memory T cells in recipients adoptively transferred with donor‐sensitized T cells. In combination with anti‐CD154/LFA‐1 treatment, CD44/CD70 blockade significantly prolonged cardiac allograft survival in adoptive transfer recipients. We demonstrated that treatment with the combination of all four antibodies (anti‐CD154/LFA‐1/CD44/CD70) inhibited accelerated rejection by markedly suppressing the alloresponses of effector and memory T cells and reducing the number of graft‐infiltration lymphocytes in adoptive transfer recipients. Meanwhile, CD44/CD70 blockade and anti‐CD154/LFA‐1 treatment synergically enhanced regulatory T cells (Tregs) by increasing the proportion of splenic Tregs and the expression of IL‐10 in these recipients. Our findings contribute to the potential design of therapies for accelerated allograft rejection.
Soybean NAC transcription factors promote abiotic stress tolerance and lateral root formation in transgenic plants
Authors: Hao Yu‐Jun , Wei Wei , Song Qing‐Xin , Chen Hao‐Wei , Zhang Yu‐Qin , Wang Fang , Zou Hong‐Feng , Lei Gang , Tian Ai‐Guo , Zhang Wan‐Ke , Ma Biao , Zhang Jin‐Song , Chen Shou‐Yi
Published: June 2011

NAC transcription factors play important roles in plant growth, development and stress responses. Previously, we identified multiple NAC genes in soybean (Glycine max). Here, we identify the roles of two genes, GmNAC11 and GmNAC20, in stress responses and other processes. The two genes were differentially induced by multiple abiotic stresses and plant hormones, and their transcripts were abundant in roots and cotyledons. Both genes encoded proteins that localized to the nucleus and bound to the core DNA sequence CGT[G/A]. In the protoplast assay system, GmNAC11 acts as a transcriptional activator, whereas GmNAC20 functions as a mild repressor; however, the C‐terminal end of GmANC20 has transcriptional activation activity. Over‐expression of GmNAC20 enhances salt and freezing tolerance in transgenic Arabidopsis plants; however, GmNAC11 over‐expression only improves salt tolerance. Over‐expression of GmNAC20 also promotes lateral root formation. GmNAC20 may regulate stress tolerance through activation of the DREB/CBF–COR pathway, and may control lateral root development by altering auxin signaling‐related genes. GmNAC11 probably regulates DREB1A and other stress‐related genes. The roles of the two GmNAC genes in stress tolerance were further analyzed in soybean transgenic hairy roots. These results provide a basis for genetic manipulation to improve the agronomic traits of important crops.
Genetic and functional analyses describe a novel 730delG mutation in the KEL gene causing K0 phenotype in a Taiwanese blood donor
Authors: Yang M.‐H. , Li L. , Kuo Y.‐F. , Hung Y.‐S. , Yu L.‐C. , Hung C.‐S. , Tsai S.‐J. L. , Lin K.‐S. , Chu D.‐C.
Published: June 2011

Aims/Objectives: The purpose of this study was to explore the molecular basis of the K0 phenotype of a Taiwanese blood donor found to have anti‐Ku alloantibodies.

Background: With respect to Kell blood group antigens, almost all Taiwanese have the (K−, k+) phenotype.

Materials and Methods: Alloantibody identification and KEL antigen typing were performed. Enzymatic function assays were carried out to detect the Kell glycoprotein on RBCs. The KEL genes were sequenced to detect genetic variation. To determine the origin of this novel allele, family studies were conducted.

Results: The alloantibody was identified as anti‐Ku. The donor was typed K0. The KEL gene‐sequencing data revealed that this K0 donor is a compound heterozygote with two different null alleles. He bears a novel 730delG mutation in one allele. Family studies suggested that the donor inherited the 730delG mutation from his father. The endothelin‐converting activity assay indicated that his RBCs had no functional Kell glycoprotein. Other family members who had only one null allele with the 730delG mutation had the phenotype (K−, k+).

Conclusion: For blood transfusion safety, it is important to establish an effective screening algorithm to identify rare phenotypes, such as the K0 phenotype, and to establish a database of rare blood groups.
Reaching Millennium Development Goal 4 – The Gambia
Authors: Jasseh Momodou , Webb Emily L. , Jaffar Shabbar , Howie Stephen , Townend John , Smith Peter G. , Greenwood Brian M. , Corrah Tumani
Published: June 2011

Objective  To describe how, through a DSS in a rural area of The Gambia, it has been possible to measure substantial reductions in child mortality rates and how we investigated whether the decline paralleled the registered fall in malaria incidence in the country.

Methods  Demographic surveillance data spanning 19.5 years (1 April 1989–30 September 2008) from 42 villages around the town of Farafenni, The Gambia, were used to estimate childhood mortality rates for neonatal, infant, child (1–4 years) and under‐5 age groups. Data were presented in five a priori defined time periods, and annual rates per 1000 live births were derived from Kaplan–Meier survival probabilities.

Results  From 1989–1992 to 2004–2008, under‐5 mortality declined by 56% (95% CI: 48–63%), from 165 (95% CI: 151–181) per 1000 live births to 74 (95% CI: 65–84) per 1000 live births. In 1‐ to 4‐year‐olds, mortality during the period 2004–2008 was 69% (95% CI: 60–76%) less than in 1989–1992. The corresponding mortality decline in infants was 39% (95% CI: 23–52%); in neonates, it was 38% (95% CI: 13–66%). The derived annual under‐5 mortality rates declined from 159 per 1000 live births in 1990 to 45 per 1000 live births in 2008, thus implying an attainment of MDG4 seven years in advance of the target year of 2015.

Conclusion  Achieving MDG4 is possible in poor, rural areas of Africa through widespread deployment of relatively simple measures that improve child survival, such as immunisation and effective malaria control.
Antimicrobial susceptibility of bacterial isolates from community acquired infections in Sub‐Saharan Africa and Asian low and middle income countries
Authors: Ashley Elizabeth A. , Lubell Yoel , White Nicholas J. , Turner Paul
Published: June 2011

Objective  Antimicrobial resistance has arisen across the globe in both nosocomial and community settings as a consequence of widespread antibiotic consumption. Poor availability of laboratory diagnosis means that resistance frequently goes unrecognised and may only be detected as clinical treatment failure. In this review, we provide an overview of the reported susceptibility of common community acquired bacterial pathogens in Sub‐Saharan Africa and Asia to the antibiotics that are most widely used in these areas.

Methods  We reviewed the literature for reports of the susceptibility of prevalent pathogens in the community in SSA and Asia to a range of commonly prescribed antibiotics. Inclusion criteria required that isolates were collected since 2004 and that they were obtained from either normally sterile sites or urine. The data were aggregated by region and by age group.

Results  Eighty‐three studies were identified since 2004 which reported the antimicrobial susceptibilities of common bacterial pathogens. Different methods were used to assess in‐vitro susceptibility in the different studies. The quality of testing (evidenced by resistance profiles) also varied considerably. For Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis most drugs maintained relatively high efficacy, apart from co‐trimoxazole to which there were high levels of resistance in most of the pathogens surveyed.

Conclusions  Compared with the enormous infectious disease burden and widespread use of antibiotics there are relatively few reliable data on antimicrobial susceptibility from tropical Asia and Africa upon which to draw firm conclusions, although it is evident that many commonly used antibiotics face considerable resistance in prevalent bacterial pathogens. This is likely to exacerbate morbidity and mortality. Investment in improved antimicrobial susceptibility testing and surveillance systems is likely to be a highly cost‐effective strategy and should be complemented by centralized and readily accessible information resources.
One amino acid change located in the conserved region of the alpha 1 domain specifies the novel HLA‐C*07:147 allele
Authors: Becker P. S. , Fürst D. , Recker K. , Mytilineos J. , Seidl C.
Published: June 2011

The novel HLA‐C allele HLA‐C*07:147 contains one nucleotide substitution in exon 2 leading to an amino acid change in the alpha 1 domain from phenylalanine to leucine.
A new HLA‐C*07 variant allele, C*07:108, identified by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Todorova K. , Schulze H. , Hartmann S. , Arnold R. , Salama A. , Schönemann C.
Published: June 2011

The new HLA‐C*07:108 differs from C*07:01:01 by two transversions in exon 3.
A novel HLA allele derived from a likely DRB1/DRB3 gene conversion event: HLA‐DRB3*01:15
Authors: Schiller J. J. , Gaba S. M. , Hasse T. R. , Fisher T. L. , Ellis T. M.
Published: June 2011

A novel HLA allele, DRB3*01:15, was likely derived via cis‐gene conversion.
A novel HLA‐DQB1*03:02 variant designated DQB1*03:02:05
Authors: Todorova K. , Schulze H. , Diederich G. , Ebell W. , Salama A. , Schoenemann C.
Published: June 2011

The new DQB1*03:02:05 differs from DQB1*03:02:01 by two nucleotide exchanges in exon 2.
Influence of CYP3A5 polymorphism on tacrolimus maintenance doses and serum levels after renal transplantation: Age dependency and pharmacological interaction with steroids
Authors: Ferraris Jorge R. , Argibay Pablo F. , Costa Lucas , Jimenez Graciela , Coccia Paula A. , Ghezzi Lidia F. R. , Ferraris Verónica , Belloso Waldo H. , Redal María A. , Larriba Julián M.
Published: June 2011

Ferraris JR, Argibay PF, Costa L, Jimenez G, Coccia PA, Ghezzi LFR, Ferraris V, Belloso WH, Redal MA, Larriba JM. Influence of CYP3A5 polymorphism on tacrolimus maintenance doses and serum levels after renal transplantation: Age dependency and pharmacological interaction with steroids.  Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 525–532. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  TAC, MMF and MP are used in pediatric kidney tx. The cytochrome P450 (CYP)3A5 enzyme appears to play a role in TAC metabolism. The aims of this study were to investigate CYP3A5 polymorphism’s effect on TAC dosing and the age dependency of TAC dosing by testing blood concentrations, and the interaction between steroids and TAC during the first year after tx. Genomic DNA was extracted and amplified with specific primers. CYP3A5 alleles were confirmed by direct sequencing of PCR products on an automated AB13100 capillary sequencer. We studied 48 renal transplant patients (age at tx 12 ± 0.5 yr, 22 boys) receiving TAC, MMF, MP. Of these, 79% were CYP3A5*3/*3 (non‐expressers homozygotes) and 21% were CYP3A5*1/*3 (expressers). TAC trough levels were 7.1 ± 0.4 ng/mL in CYP3A5*3/*3 patients and 6.5 ± 0.7 ng/mL in CYP3A5*1/*3 group (p = 0.03). CYP3A5*1/*3 patients had lower levels of dose‐adjusted TAC (36.7 ± 5.8 ng/mL/mg/kg/day) to achieve target blood concentration and required higher daily dose per weight (0.21 ± 0.03 mg/kg/day) than CYP3A5*3/*3 patients, 72.4 ± 8.0 ng/mL/mg/kg/day and 0.13 ± 0.01 mg/kg/day (p < 0.001). Prepubertal patients with different CYP3A5 polymorphisms required significant higher TAC doses and achieved lower dose‐normalized concentration compared with pubertal patients. Both TAC dose and adjusted‐dose correlated with daily MP dose in CYP3A5*1*3 (r: 0.4, p < 0.03 and r: 0.4, p < 0.03) and in CYP3A5*3*3 (r: 0.6, p < 0.01 and r: 0.47, p < 0.001) patients. CYP3A5 polymorphism performed before tx could contribute to a better individualization of TAC therapy. The higher TAC dose in prepubertal patients and the pharmacological interactions between MP and TAC may not be fully explained by different CYP3A5 polymorphisms.