bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Theoretical study of radiative and non-radiative decay processes in pyrazine derivatives
Authors: Deng Chunmei , Niu Yingli , Peng Qian , Qin Anjun , Shuai Zhigang , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2011

Aggregation-induced emission (AIE) phenomenon has attracted much attention in recent years due to its potential applications in optoelectronic devices, fluorescence sensors, and biological probes. Restriction of intramolecular rotation has been proposed as the cause of this unusual phenomenon. Rational design of AIE luminogens requires quantitative descriptions of its mechanism. 2,3-dicyano-5,6-diphenylpyrazine (DCDPP) with “free” phenyl rings is an AIE active compound, whereas 2,3-dicyanopyrazino [5,6-9,10] phenanthrene (DCPP) with “locked” phenyl rings is not. Quantum chemistry calculations coupled with our thermal vibration correlation function formalism for the radiative and non-radiative decay rates reveal that the radiative decay rates for both DCPP and DCDPP are close to each other for all the temperatures, but the non-radiative decay processes are very different. For DCDPP, the low-frequency modes originated from the phenyl ring twisting motions are strongly coupled with the electronic excited state, which dissipate the electronic excitation energy through mode-mixing (Duschinsky rotation effect), and the non-radiative decay rate strongly increases with temperature. For DCPP, however, such mode-mixing effect is weak and the non-radiative decay rate is insensitive to temperature. These findings rationalize the fact that DCDPP is AIE active but DCPP is not, and are instructive to further development of AIE luminogens.
A combined density functional and x-ray diffraction study of Pt nanoparticle structure
Authors: Welborn Matthew , Tang Wenjie , Ryu Jihoon , Petkov Valeri , Henkelman Graeme
Published: July 2011

The structure of 1.7 nm Pt nanoparticles is investigated using x-ray diffraction (XRD) measurements and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. Two types of particles are compared, those made by solution chemistry which are capped either by thiol or amine ligands, and dendrimer encapsulated particles (DENs) which do not have capping ligands. All particles were dried before analyzing their structure. Pair distribution function (PDF) data from XRD measurements show that the ligand-capped particles are more disordered than the DENs. To determine the structure of the particles and the nature of the ligand-induced disorder, we use a hybrid reverse Monte Carlo approach. A weighted average of the calculated binding energy of the particles and a goodness-of-fit parameter to the PDF data is taken as the object function, which is minimized to determine the optimal structure. A scan over different weights gives the set of pareto optimal structures, which show how well simultaneous agreement can be reached to both experiment and theory. Using an embedded atom potential to sample configuration space and DFT to refine the optimal structures, we show that the DEN structure is most consistent with a face centered cubic lattice of truncated octahedral shape. The disorder induced by the capping ligands is consistent with surface relaxation of the particle rather than disorder of the crystal structure.
Resonant frequency multiplication in microscopic magnetic dots
Authors: Demidov V. E. , Ulrichs H. , Urazhdin S. , Demokritov S. O. , Bessonov V. , Gieniusz R. , Maziewski A.
Published: July 2011

We demonstrate the phenomenon of nonlinear frequency multiplication in sub-micrometer Permalloy dots. The efficiency of multiplication is strongly enhanced when the harmonic is resonant with the normal dynamical modes of the dot. We find that the characteristics of resonant enhancement are dependent on the spatial symmetry of the dynamical mode and are different for the double- and the triple-frequency harmonics. The resonant frequency tripling is particularly efficient, providing a practical route for the implementation of microscopic integrated microwave frequency multipliers.
Investigation of HfO2 high-k dielectrics electronic structure on SiO2/Si substrate by x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Duan T. L. , Yu H. Y. , Wu L. , Wang Z. R. , Foo Y. L. , Pan J. S.
Published: July 2011

In this Letter, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) was used to investigate electronic structures of HfO2 with various thicknesses on SiO2/Si substrate prepared by atomic layer deposition with post deposition annealing of 600 °C, which is compatible with a gate last process in the fabrication of complementary metal oxide semiconductor. The hafnium silicate formed between HfO2 and SiO2 interface plays a key role in generating an internal electric field. This can be attributed to the presence of oxygen vacancies (Vo) at the interface. The XPS binding energy shifts of O 1s, Si 2p, and Hf 4f spectra with increasing HfO2 thicknesses can be explained by the presence of the internal field and differential charging effects. Electrical measurements of capacitor structures support the XPS result.
Polarization fatigue of Pr and Mn co-substituted BiFeO3 thin films
Authors: Wen Zheng , Lv Yong , Wu Di , Li Aidong
Published: July 2011

Polarization fatigue of (Bi0.85Pr0.15)(Fe0.95Mn0.05)O3 (BPFMO) films is studied as functions of switching fields and frequencies. Poor fatigue resistance is observed at low switching frequencies and small cycling fields. An increase of dielectric constant is observed in accompany with the suppression of switchable polarization. Both the switchable polarization and the dielectric constant can be restored to their original values simultaneously by high electric field cycling. These characteristics are discussed in terms of migration and aggregation of oxygen vacancies on domain walls to block domain switching. The results support the domain wall pinning scenario for polarization degradation in BPFMO films.
Molecular beam epitaxy and characterization of thin Bi2Se3 films on Al2O3 (110)
Authors: Tabor Phillip , Keenan Cameron , Urazhdin Sergei , Lederman David
Published: July 2011

The structural and electronic properties of thin Bi2Se3 films grown on Al2O3 (110) by molecular beam epitaxy are investigated. The epitaxial films grow in the Frank-van der Merwe mode and are c-axis oriented. They exhibit the highest crystallinity, the lowest carrier concentration, and optimal stoichiometry at a substrate temperature of 200 °C determined by the balance between surface kinetics and desorption of Se. The crystallinity of the films improves with increasing Se/Bi flux ratio. Our results enable studies of thin topological insulator films on inert, non-conducting substrates that allow optical access to both film surfaces.
Genetic evaluation of inbred plants based on BLUP of breeding value and general combining ability
Authors: Viana José Marcelo Soriano , Vinícius de Almeida Ramon , Faria Vinícius Ribeiro , Vilela de Resende Marcos Deon , Fonseca e Silva Fabyano
Published: July 2011

The testcross method is considered efficient for identifying inbred families with superior general combining ability. The objective of the present study was to assess the relative importance of the performance per se and in crossing in the selection of inbred progenies using bi-trait best linear unbiased prediction. We analysed data for expansion volume (EV) and grain yield from three tests of popcorn (Zea mays L. ssp. everta) S3 families and seven testcross trials, using the ASRemL software. Four selection strategies were assessed based on: breeding value (strategy 1), general combining ability effect (GCA) (strategy 2), additive value and GCA from strategies 1 and 2 (strategy 3), and breeding value and GCA predicted by bi-trait analyses considering EV and yield of the families and testcrosses as different traits (strategy 4). The bi-trait analyses of the same characteristic assessed in S3 families and topcrosses were generally more accurate and had greater heritabilites. The greatest predicted gains in EV were obtained using strategy 4, which was inferior to the other strategies for the yield predicted gains. Strategies 1 and 2 differed most for the families selected. Selection based on GCA maximised heterosis. All of the strategies resulted in comparable realised gains, especially the strategies 3 and 4 based on breeding value and GCA. Selection on S3 based on the additive value and GCA (strategies 3 and 4) resulted in inbred lines superior in number of favourable genes and in general combining ability.
The enigmatic genome of Chara australis virus
Authors: Gibbs Adrian J. , Torronen Marjo , Mackenzie Anne M. , Wood Jeffery T. , Armstrong John S. , Kondo Hideki , Tamada Tetsuo , Keese Paul L.
Published: July 2011

Most of the genomic sequence ofChara australisvirus (CAV), previously calledChara corallinavirus, has been determined. It is a ssRNA molecule of 9065 nt with at least four ORFs. At its 5′ end is an ORF encoding a protein of 227 kDa, distantly homologous to the multifunctional replicases of benyviruses and rubiviruses. Next is an ORF encoding a protein of 44 kDa, homologous to the helicases of pestiviruses. The third ORF encodes an unmatched protein of 38 kDa that is probably a movement protein. The fourth and 3′-terminal ORF encodes a protein of 17.7 kDa homologous to the coat proteins of tobamoviruses. The short methyltransferase region of the CAV replicase matches only the C-terminal motif of benyvirus methyltransferases. This and other clues indicate that approximately 11 % and 2 % of the 5′ and 3′ termini of the complete CAV genome, respectively, are missing from the sequence. The aligned amino acid sequences of the CAV proteins and their nearest homologues contain many gaps but relationships inferred from them were little affected by removal of these gaps. Sequence comparisons show that three of the CAV genes may have diverged from the most closely related genes of other viruses 250–450 million years ago, and the sister relationship between the genes of CAV and those of benyviruses and tobamoviruses, mirroring the ancient sister relationship between charophytes (i.e. the algal host of CAV) and embryophytes (i.e. the plant hosts of tobamoviruses and benyviruses), is congruent with this possibility.
Molecular analysis of globin gene expression in different thalassaemia disorders: individual variation of βE pre‐mRNA splicing determine disease severity
Authors: Tubsuwan Alisa , Munkongdee Thongperm , Jearawiriyapaisarn Natee , Boonchoy Chanikarn , Winichagoon Pranee , Fucharoen Suthat , Svasti Saovaros
Published: July 2011

Thalassaemia is characterized by the reduced or absent production of globins in the haemoglobin molecule leading to imbalanced α‐globin/non α‐globin chains. HbE, the result of a G to A mutation in codon 26 of the HBB (β‐globin) gene, activates a cryptic 5′ splice site in codon 25 leading to a reduction of correctly spliced βE‐globin (HBB:c.79G>A) mRNA and consequently β+‐thalassaemia. A wide range of clinical severities in bothα‐ and β‐thalassaemia syndromes, from nearly asymptomatic to transfusion‐dependent, has been observed. The correlation between clinical heterogeneity in various genotypes of thalassaemia and the levels of globin gene expression and βE‐globin pre‐mRNA splicing were examined using multiplex quantitative real‐time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and allele‐specific RT‐qPCR. The α‐globin/non α‐globin mRNA ratio was demonstrated to be a good indicator for disease severity among different thalassaemia disorders. However, the α‐globin/non α‐globin mRNA ratio ranged widely in β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients, with no significant difference between mild and severe phenotypes. Interestingly, the correctly to aberrantly spliced βE‐globin mRNA ratio in 30% of mild β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients was higher than that of the severe patients. The splicing process of βE‐globin pre‐mRNA differs among β‐thalassaemia/HbE patients and serves as one of the modifying factors for disease severity.
Evaluation of the ability of neurobiological, neurodevelopmental and socio‐economic variables to predict cognitive outcome in premature infants
Authors: Wickremasinghe A. C. , Hartman T. K. , Voigt R. G. , Katusic S. K. , Weaver A. L. , Colby C. E. , Barbaresi W. J.
Published: July 2011

Background  When developed in the 1990s, the Neurobiologic Risk Score (NBRS) and Neurodevelopmental Risk Exam (NRE) correlated well with developmental outcomes in premature infants. Given recent advances in neonatology, we assessed their present ability to predict cognitive outcome, alone and combined with socio‐economic factors.

Methods  One hundred and twenty‐nine neonates <32 weeks gestational age were assessed at 6, 12 and/or 24 months corrected age with the Cognitive Adaptive Test/Clinical Linguistic and Auditory Milestone Scale (CAT/CLAMS). Indices of socio‐economic status included maternal education and marital status.

Results  At 24 months corrected age (n= 67), the NBRS (r=−0.5), maternal education (r= 0.46) and marital status (r= 0.37) correlated with the CAT/CLAMS. These correlations increased when NBRS and maternal education were combined (r= 0.63) and when specific NBRS components (intraventricular haemorrhage, periventricular leukomalacia, seizures) and maternal education were combined (r= 0.66).

Conclusions  In the contemporary neonatal intensive care unit, measures used to predict cognitive outcome should incorporate both neurobiological risk factors and socio‐economic variables.
External validation of exhaled breath profiling using an electronic nose in the discrimination of asthma with fixed airways obstruction and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Fens N. , Roldaan A. C. , van der Schee M. P. , Boksem R. J. , Zwinderman A. H. , Bel E. H. , Sterk P. J.
Published: July 2011

Background Fixed airflow limitation can be found both in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), posing a day‐to‐day diagnostic challenge.

Objective We aimed to determine the external validity of metabolomic analysis of exhaled air by electronic nose for distinguishing asthma and COPD in patients with fixed airways obstruction.

Methods One hundred patients were included in a cross‐sectional design: 60 asthma patients: 21 with fixed airways obstruction (fixed asthma), 39 with reversible airways obstruction (classic asthma) and 40 COPD patients (GOLD stages II–III). Standardized sampling of exhaled breath was performed and volatile organic compounds were captured using an electronic nose resulting in breathprints. External validity in newly recruited patients (validation sets) was tested using a previous and independent training set. Breathprints were analysed by principal component and canonical discriminant analysis and area under the curve (AUC) of receiver operating characteristic curves.

Results External validity of breathprints showed 88% accuracy for distinguishing fixed asthma from COPD (AUC 0.95, 95% CI 0.84–1.00, sensitivity 85%, specificity 90%) and 83% for classic asthma (AUC 0.93, 95% CI 0.87–1.00, sensitivity 91%, specificity 90%) (both P<0.001). Discriminative accuracy was not confounded by current smoking.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance External validation of exhaled breath molecular profiling shows high accuracy in distinguishing asthma and COPD in newly recruited patients with fixed airways obstruction. Exhaled air analysis may therefore reduce misdiagnosis in obstructive airways diseases, potentially leading to more appropriate management.

Cite this as: N. Fens, A. C. Roldaan, M. P. van der Schee, R. J. Boksem, A. H. Zwinderman, E. H. Bel and P. J. Sterk, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 1371–1378.
Diagnostic dilemmas of hyalinizing trabecular tumours on fine needle aspiration cytology: a study of seven cases with BRAF mutation analysis
Authors: Kim T. , Oh Y. L. , Kim K. M. , Shin J. H.
Published: July 2011

T. Kim, Y. L. Oh, K. M. Kim and J. H. Shin

Diagnostic dilemmas of hyalinizing trabecular tumours on fine needle aspiration cytology: a study of seven cases with BRAF mutation analysis

Objective:  Hyalinizing trabecular tumours (HTTs) are rare follicular‐derived neoplasms that behave in an almost benign manner. HTT is frequently misdiagnosed as papillary carcinoma by fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology or as papillary or medullary carcinoma on surgical resection.

Methods:  The authors examined FNA material from seven cases of histologically verified HTT. Cytological findings were reviewed and correlated with ultrasonographic and histological features. In addition, MIB‐1 and calcitonin immunostaining was performed on surgical specimens, and BRAF mutation analysis on three pre‐operative FNA specimens and seven histology specimens.

Results:  The original cytological diagnosis was either suspicious or positive for papillary carcinoma in all patients. The FNA‐based differential diagnoses included HTT, papillary carcinoma or, less likely, medullary carcinoma in two patients. Aspirates showed oval to spindle‐shaped cells with frequent intranuclear inclusions, isolated in loosely cohesive groups with a trabecular or syncytial pattern in a bloody background. Radiating arrangements of tumour cells surrounding hyaline stroma with serrated calcifications and a lack of papillary or sheet‐like fragments may suggest HTT on FNA. Spherical calcified bodies and possible psammoma bodies were frequently found in three cases. Retrospectively, six of the seven cases showed membranous immunoreactivity for MIB‐1, but none of the seven possessed the BRAF (V600E) mutation or showed calcitonin reactivity.

Conclusions:  Although the recognition of HTT on FNA cytology is difficult, because of its morphological similarities to papillary and medullary carcinoma, its characteristic cytological features along with ultrasonographic findings may suggest the diagnosis preoperatively and avoid surgical over‐treatment.
Trends in health outcomes for family caregivers of hip‐fractured elders during the first 12 months after discharge
Authors: Shyu Yea‐Ing Lotus , Chen Min‐Chi , Liang Jersey , Tseng Ming‐Yueh
Published: July 2011

shyu y.‐i.l., chen m.‐c., liang j. & tseng m.‐y. (2012) Trends in health outcomes for family caregivers of hip‐fractured elders during the first 12 months after discharge. Journal of Advanced Nursing68(3), 658–666.

Aim.  This article reports on trends in health outcomes for family caregivers of hip‐fractured patients and the effects of social support on these outcomes.

Background.  Little is known about the impact of caregiving on the health outcomes of family caregivers of patients with hip fracture.

Method.  For this prospective, correlational study, data were collected from 135 family caregivers of hip‐fractured elders (2001–2005). Data on health‐related quality of life and social support were collected from family caregivers at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months after discharge of the older hip‐fractured patient.

Findings.  During the 12 months after the patients’ discharge, family caregivers’ scores improved significantly in role performance‐related scales, including bodily pain, social function, role limitations due to emotional problems and role limitations due to physical problems. However, caregivers’ scores for general health and mental health were significantly lower at 12 months [59·91 (sd = 24·54) and 65·91 (sd = 14·36) respectively] than at 1 month after discharge [64·35 (sd = 23·29) and 67·94 (sd = 18·47) respectively]. The trends for most subscale scores for health‐related quality of life were positively related to perceived availability of social support.

Conclusions.  Caring for a hip‐fractured older family member over a sustained period may enhance family caregivers’ role performance, but have a negative impact on their perceived general health and mental health. These results suggest that home care nurses should develop interventions early after discharge to assess and improve family caregivers’ health perception, mental health and social support.
Pressure ulcer prevalence and prevention practices in care of the older person in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: Moore Zena , Cowman Seamus
Published: July 2011

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this study was to establish pressure ulcer prevalence and prevention in the long‐term care setting.

Background.  There is no information on pressure ulcers prevalence in care of the older person in Ireland; therefore, a prevalence study was undertaken to investigate key aspects related to current practices in pressure ulcer prevention.

Design.  A cross‐sectional survey design was employed.

Method.  Ethical approval was received. Participants included 1100 older individuals residing in 12 long‐term care settings. Data were collected using the Braden scale, the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel minimum data set and pressure ulcer grading system.

Results.  All participants were Irish and white, 70% were women, and 75% were aged 80 years or older. Prevalence was 9%, with 28% of pressure ulcers grade 1, 33% grade 2, 15% grade 3 and 24% grade 4, mainly located on the sacrum (58%) and the heel (25%). Seventy‐seven per cent scored Braden low risk or not at risk; however, 53% were completely immobile/very limited mobility and 58% were chair/bedfast. There was a significant association between activity and mobility and pressure ulcer development (χ2 = 45·50, p < 0·001 and χ2 = 46·91, p = 0·0001, respectively). Fifty per cent had a pressure redistribution device in bed, and 48% had one in use on the chair; however, 9% had a repositioning regime planned for when in bed and 5% planned for when seated in the chair.

Conclusions.  This paper reports on the first ever pressure ulcer prevalence survey conducted in long‐term care in Ireland, and results provide significant insights into decision‐making and use of resources in the prevention of pressure ulcers.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Pressure ulcers are common, costly and impact negatively on individuals. Current practices in prevention show several areas for improvement, namely, risk assessment, care planning and documentation.
A narrative review of South Asian patients’ experiences of cardiac rehabilitation
Authors: Galdas Paul M , Ratner Pamela A , Oliffe John L
Published: July 2011

Aims and objectives.  To review the empirical literature relating to South Asian patients’ experiences of cardiac rehabilitation.

Background.  Individuals of South Asian origin (originating from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, or Sri Lanka) have increased risk of coronary heart disease‐related mortality and morbidity. Low levels of cardiac rehabilitation participation have been reported among South Asian groups in several English‐speaking countries.

Design.  Narrative review.

Methods.  Primary research evidence published in English between 1999–2010 obtained using pre‐defined search criteria in electronic databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, PubMed, EMBASE, Google Scholar and PsycINFO.

Results.  Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria for review. Four prominent themes were identified in the literature related to: (1) exercise; (2) culture and religion; (3) programme access and structure; (4) communication and language.

Conclusions.  The emerging themes distilled from the review encompass several factors associated with South Asian patients’ experiences of cardiac rehabilitation that are commensurate with low uptake and poor adherence. However, few researchers have disaggregated their data by ethnic origin to describe what might best meet the needs of South Asian patients. Further research is needed to thoughtfully address issues of uptake of and compliance with cardiac rehabilitation by South Asian patients and to support the development of culturally sensitive and safe CR programmes.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The findings from this review can help nurses to develop guidelines for the design and delivery of culturally competent South Asian cardiac rehabilitation programmes. Important considerations related to physical exercise, language and communication preferences, religious and cultural needs and programme access and structure, need to be addressed in a culturally relevant and culturally sensitive manner to enhance the uptake and efficacy of cardiac rehabilitation for South Asian individuals.
Medicine administration errors and their severity in secondary care older persons’ ward: a multi‐centre observational study
Authors: Kelly Jennifer , Wright David
Published: July 2011

Aim and objectives.  To assess the severity of medicine administration errors to older patients.

Background.  Severity of medicine administration errors has been determined in a variety of settings but not in care‐of‐older‐person wards, which this study aims to do.

Design.  Undisguised observational study.

Participants.  Sixty‐two nurses were observed administering oral medicines to 625 patients.

Interventions.  Data were collected on the preparation and administration of oral medicines. Thirty‐five cases of error were selected and analysed for their severity.

Results.  In the 65 drug rounds observed 2129 potential drug administrations were made to 625 patients, of which 817 doses (38·4%) were given incorrectly (95% CI = 36·3–40·4). The overall mean harm score of the 35 incidents analysed was 4·1 (range 1·1–8·6, SD 1·8) on a scale of 0–10.

Conclusions.  The number and severity of MAEs observed is high compared with previous studies.

Relevance to clinical practice.  There is a need to decrease the number and severity of MAEs, by increasing nurse awareness and error reporting.
A prospective study of nosocomial urinary tract infection in hip fracture patients
Authors: Hälleberg Nyman Maria , Johansson Jan‐Erik , Persson Katarina , Gustafsson Margareta
Published: July 2011

Aim.  To investigate risk factors and consequences of nosocomial urinary tract infection in hip fracture patients.

Background.  Nosocomial urinary tract infection is a well‐known problem in hip fracture patients. There are several risk factors for nosocomial urinary tract infection described in the literature.

Design.  Prospective observational study with a descriptive and comparative design.

Methods.  Hip fracture patients were included consecutively between April 2006–March 2007. Excluded were those under 50, having an indwelling urinary catheter, signs of cognitive impairment or additional severe physical problems at the time of admission. To verify nosocomial urinary tract infection, a urine specimen was taken at admission and discharge. Patients with and without nosocomial urinary tract infection were compared.

Results.  The study included 86 hip fracture patients, of whom 45 (52·3%) contracted nosocomial urinary tract infection in hospital. Earlier reported risk factors for nosocomial urinary tract infection were not confirmed in this study, with one exception: diabetes. All diabetic patients in the study contracted urinary tract infections. Patients receiving cloxacillin as antibiotic prophylaxis for wound infection contracted UTI less often than other patients. There were no statistical differences between groups with regard to urinary tract infection frequency four months after fracture or with regard to mortality after one year.

Conclusion.  Diabetes was the only previously known risk factor for nosocomial urinary tract infection confirmed among hip fracture patients in this study. Cloxacillin as antibiotic prophylaxis for surgery seemed to offer a certain protection against nosocomial urinary tract infection.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses in clinical practice should be aware of the risk of urinary tract infections in hip fracture patients and especially in hip fracture patients with diabetes. Patients given cloxacillin as antibiotic prophylaxis seem less likely to contract nosocomial urinary tract infection.
OsIAA23‐mediated auxin signaling defines postembryonic maintenance of QC in rice
Authors: Jun Ni , Gaohang Wang , Zhenxing Zhu , Huanhuan Zhang , Yunrong Wu , Ping Wu
Published: July 2011

Although the quiescent center (QC) is crucial to root development, the molecular mechanisms that regulate its postembryonic maintenance remain obscure. In this study, a semi‐dominant mutant that exhibits pleiotropic defects in root tissues, which includes the root cap, lateral and crown roots, was isolated. The mutant is characterized by a loss of QC identity during postembryonic development, and the displayed defects result from a stabilizing mutation in domain II of OsIAA23 (Os06g39590). Expression of OsIAA23 is specific to the QC of the root tip during the development of primary, lateral and crown roots. Consistent with OsIAA23 expression in the QC, the auxin signaling marked by DR5p::GUS (ß‐glucuronidase) was absent in the QC region of Osiaa23. Transgenic rice plants harboring Osiaa23 under the control of the QHB promoter mimic partially the defects of Osiaa23. These results indicate that the maintenance of the QC is dependent on OsIAA23‐mediated auxin signaling in the QC. These findings provide insight into Aux/IAA‐based auxin signaling during postembryonic maintenance of the QC in plants.
Improved retention rates with low‐cost interventions in hypertension and diabetes management in a rural African environment of nurse‐led care: a cluster‐randomised trial
Authors: Labhardt Niklaus D. , Balo Jean‐Richard , Ndam Mama , Manga Engelbert , Stoll Beat
Published: July 2011

Objective  To compare the effects of low‐level facility‐based interventions on patient retention rates for cardiovascular (CV) disease in an environment of task shifting and nurse‐led care in rural health districts in Central Cameroon.

Methods  This study is an open‐label, three‐arm, cluster‐randomised trial in nurse‐led facilities. All three groups implemented a treatment contract. The control group (group 1) had no additional intervention, group 2 received the incentive of 1 month of free treatment every forth month of regularly respected visits, and group 3 received reminder letters in case of a missed follow‐up visit. The primary outcome was patient retention at 1 year. Secondary outcomes were adherence to follow‐up visit schemes and changes in blood pressure (BP) and blood glucose levels. Patients’ monthly spending for drugs and transport was calculated retrospectively.

Results  A total of 33 centres and 221 patients were included. After 1 year, 109 patients (49.3%) remained in the programme. Retention rates in groups 2 and 3 were 60% and 65%, respectively, against 29% in the control group. The differences between the intervention groups and the control group were significant (P < 0.001), but differences between the two intervention groups were not (P = 0.719). There were no significant differences in BP or fasting plasma glucose trends between retained patients in the study groups. Average monthly cost to patients for antihypertensive medication was € 1.1 ± 0.9 and for diabetics €1.2 ± 1.1. Transport costs to the centres were on average €1.1 ± 1.0 for hypertensive patients and €1.1 ± 1.6 for patients with diabetes.

Conclusions  Low‐cost interventions suited to an environment of task shifting and nurse‐led care and needing minimal additional resources can significantly improve retention rates in CV disease management in rural Africa. The combination of a treatment contract and reminder letters in case of missed appointments was an effective measure to retain patients in care.
A new HLA‐B*15 allele, B*15:220, found in three individuals sharing the HLA‐A*66:01, HLA‐C*12:03 and HLADRB1*07:01 alleles
Authors: Schell A. , Leisenbach R. , Coman C. , Parissiadis A. , Tourne S.
Published: July 2011

The new allele HLA‐B*15:220 is associated with a conserved haplotype.
Low‐grade malignant triton tumor in the lumbar spine: A rare variant of malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor with rhabdomyoblastic differentiation
Authors: Prieto Ruth , Pascual José M. , García‐Cabezas Miguel A. , López‐Barea Fernando , Barrios Laura , González‐Llanos Francisco
Published: July 2011

Malignant peripheral nerve sheath tumor (MPNST) is an uncommon type of sarcoma that arises from peripheral nerve sheaths and rarely involves the spinal roots. The origin of this tumor is thought to be Schwann cells or pluripotent cells of the neural crest. The subgroup of tumors in which malignant Schwann cells coexist with malignant rhabdomyoblasts is termed malignant triton tumor (MTT). MPNSTs can show different degrees of malignancy, but overall spinal MTTs are high‐grade lesions. We report the exceptional instance of a spinal low‐grade MTT in a 39‐year‐old man treated with total surgical removal followed by local radiation therapy. Histological low grade was based on the lack of necrosis, a low grade of atypia, a low mitotic rate and a Ki‐67 labelling index <25%. After 18 months of follow‐up the patient is alive with no evidence of disease. A thorough review of the literature yielded 57 well‐documented spinal MPNSTs. Ten of them corresponded to MTTs, but none showed low‐grade features. An analysis of the clinical, radiological and treatment data was performed to identify factors that might influence the outcome. Overall the 18‐month survival rate was 45% but dropped to 0% in the subgroup of spinal MTTs. Besides, a size exceeding 2 cm, extra‐spinal extension, association with neurofibromatosis and subtotal removal were all related to a worse outcome. In conclusion, spinal MTTs generally exhibit a more aggressive behavior than conventional MPNSTs. The occurrence of a spinal low‐grade MTT with a better prognosis should also be recognized.
Floral color variation and associations with fitness‐related traits inMalva moschata(Malvaceae)
Authors: FREY FRANK M. , DUNTON JESSICA , GARLAND KAILEY
Published: July 2011

Genetic polymorphisms for floral color are interesting phenomena to study because they are likely to be maintained by opposing selective forces. Pollinator preferences may exert direct selection on floral color; however, floral color might also be the indirect target of selection through genetic associations with other traits under selection.Malva moschata(Malvaceae) is a North American species that produces either red or white flowers. In the present study, we present reflectance spectrophotometry data that characterize the nature of floral color variation in this species and show that honey bees and bumble bees should be able to distinguish between the morphs through differential sensitivity at the green (long‐wavelength) photoreceptor. Second, we use a series of phenotypic measures to investigate whether the color morphs differ with respect to other floral traits, vegetative traits or female reproductive success, and use a series of correlation analyses to infer the relative independence of color from these other traits. We found that red‐flowered morphs produced more anthers per flower and had greater leaf area, and that white‐flowered morphs had greater percentage fruit set; however, there were no reproductive success differences between the morphs. The relationship between flower size and anther number was the only correlation that differed between the morphs. Finally, a series of pollinator‐choice experiments showed that bumble bees strongly prefer red morphs in terms of visit frequency and duration, but honey bees have no preference. Taken together, our results suggest that color is rather independent of other phenotypic traits, and that honey bee abundance is likely to play a role in maintaining color variation in this system.
Manual restraint and shows of force: The City‐128 study
Authors: Bowers Len , Van Der Merwe Marie , Paterson Brodie , Stewart Duncan
Published: July 2011

Manual restraint is used to manage disturbed behaviour by patients. This study aimed to assess the relationship of manual restraint and show of force to conflict behaviours, the use of containment methods, service environment, physical environment, patient routines, staff characteristics, and staff group variables. Data from a multivariate, cross‐sectional study of 136 acute psychiatric wards in England were used to conduct this analysis. Manual restraint was used less frequently on English acute psychiatric wards (0.20 incidents per day) than show of force (0.28 incidents per day). Both were strongly associated with the proportion of patients subject to legal detention, aggressive behaviours, and the enforcement of treatment and detention. Medical, nursing, and security guard staff provision were associated in different ways with variations in the use of these coercive interventions. An effective ward structure of rules and routines was associated with less dependence on these control methods. Training for manual restraint should incorporate the scenarios of attempted absconding and enforcement of treatment, as well as violent behaviour. Attempts to lessen usage of these interventions could usefully focus on increasing the availability of medical staff to patients, reducing reliance on security guards and establishing a good ward structure.
Ultrasound assessment of endometrial cavity in perimenopausal women on oral progesterone for abnormal uterine bleeding: Comparison of diagnostic accuracy of imaging with hysteroscopy‐guided biopsy
Authors: Dasgupta Subhankar , Dasgupta Shyamal , Sharma Partha Pratim , Mukherjee Amitabha , Ghosh Tarun Kumar
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To investigate the effect of oral progesterone on the accuracy of imaging studies performed to detect endometrial pathology in comparison to hysteroscopy‐guided biopsy in perimenopausal women on progesterone treatment for abnormal uterine bleeding.

Methods:  The study population comprised of women aged 40–55 years with complaints of abnormal uterine bleeding who were also undergoing oral progesterone therapy. Women with a uterus ≥ 12 weeks' gestation size, previous abnormal endometrial biopsy, cervical lesion on speculum examination, abnormal Pap smear, active pelvic infection, adnexal mass on clinical examination or during ultrasound scan and a positive pregnancy test were excluded. A transvaginal ultrasound followed by saline infusion sonography were done. On the following day, a hysteroscopy followed by a guided biopsy of the endometrium or any endometrial lesion was performed. Comparison between the results of the imaging study with the hysteroscopy and guided biopsy was done.

Results:  The final analysis included 83 patients. For detection of overall pathology, polyp and fibroid transvaginal ultrasound had a positive likelihood ratio of 1.65, 5.45 and 5.4, respectively, and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.47, 0.6 and 0.43, respectively. For detection of overall pathology, polyp and fibroid saline infusion sonography had a positive likelihood ratio of 4.4, 5.35 and 11.8, respectively, and a negative likelihood ratio of 0.3, 0.2 and 0.15, respectively.

Conclusion:  In perimenopausal women on oral progesterone therapy for abnormal uterine bleeding, imaging studies cannot be considered as an accurate method for diagnosing endometrial pathology when compared to hysteroscopy and guided biopsy.
Are serum markers altered in first trimester screening in poor ovarian reserve patients?
Authors: Parlakgumus Huriye A. , Haydardedeoglu Bulent , Simsek Erhan , Bulgan Kilicdag Esra , Bagis Tayfun
Published: July 2011

Aim:  To investigate whether serum biochemical markers were altered during first trimester screenings in patients who have diminished ovarian reserve.

Methods:  One hundred and fifty‐one women who conceived after intracytoplasmic sperm injection were enrolled during the 11‐ to 14‐week scan between June 2006 and July 2008. The normoresponders (Group 1: 125 patients) had >6 oocytes and the poor responders (Group 2: 26 patients) had ≤6 oocytes in oocyte retrieval. The means of the multiples of the median (MoM) of pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A (PAPP‐A), free β‐human chorionic gonadotropin (β‐hCG) and nuchal translucency of the poor responder and normoresponder groups were compared and a potential relationship between serum markers and poor ovarian reserve was investigated. Data were analyzed with the Student's t‐test, χ2‐test and Mann–Whitney two sample test (unpaired, nonparametric). P < 0.05 was considered significant.

Results:  The means of the MoMs of the poor responders and normoresponders were 1.16 ± 0.45 and 1.04 ± 0.32 (P = 0.111) for nuchal translucency, 0.92 ± 0.48 and 0.89 ± 0.61 (P = 0.399) for PAPP‐A, and 1.08 ± 0.40 and 1.21 ± 0.95 (P = 0.831) for β‐hCG, respectively.

Conclusion:  There was no statistically significant difference between the groups in serum biochemical markers, nuchal translucency means and screen positive rates during the first trimester screening.
Should lymphadenectomy be performed in early stage I and II sarcomas of the corpus uteri
Authors: Tsikouras Panagiotis , Dafopoulos Alexandros , Ammari Alexandros , Dislian Valentin , Liatsikos Spyros , Zografou Christos , Dafopoulos Konstantinos , Galazios Georgios , Maroulis Georgios , Liberis Vasileios , Teichmann Alexander Tobias
Published: July 2011

Aim:  The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of radical lymphadenectomy as a prognostic factor in the management of uterine sarcomas.

Methods:  Sixty patients with histologically‐proven uterine sarcomas were recruited for this study. The patients were evaluated retrospectively, during the time period from September 1990 to June 2008, in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology of Aschaffenburg Clinic in Germany. The normality of the quantitative variables was tested using the Kolmogorov–Smirnov test.

Results:  Of 60 patients, 35 (58.3%) underwent total abdominal hysterectomy, bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy and pelvic or para‐aortic lymphadenectomy. The excision of iliac nodes was the strongest and most independent factor (β = 0.64, P = 0.000) associated with survival. Recurrence of disease developed in 14 out of 25 patients (56%) who did not receive lymphadenectomy, but in only 10 out of 35 patients (29%) who underwent lymphadenectomy. The mean survival in years after surgery plus lymphadenectomy was 5.28 years, while in patients who did not undergo lymphadenectomy it was 1.56 years.

Conclusions:  Removal of lymphatic tissue in patients with early‐stage uterine sarcoma significantly decreases the recurrence rate of the disease and improves the postoperative survival. However, there is a need for further prospective randomized controlled trials to investigate the adequate surgical management of uterine sarcomas and to clarify the prognostic value of lymphadenectomy at the initial surgery.
Prevalence of celiac disease in parents of preterm or low birthweight newborns
Authors: Özgör Bilge , Selimoğlu Mukadder Ayşe , Temel İsmail , Seçkin Yüksel , Kafkaslı Ayşe
Published: July 2011

Aim:  Celiac disease (CD) may present with atypical symptoms, including poor pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm and low birthweight (LBW) deliveries, thus we aimed to investigate the frequency of CD in mothers and fathers of preterm or LBW newborns.

Materials and Methods:  In this study, 316 parents of 164 preterm or LBW newborns and 246 parents of 123 healthy newborns were included. CD was screened using tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A. Endoscopic duodenal biopsy was provided in the seropositive cases.

Results:  Positive tissue transglutaminase immunoglobulin A was found in six (1.1%; 1/94) individuals (three mothers and three fathers); five were from the study group (1.6%; 1/63) and one was from the control group (0.4%; 1/246). CD prevalence in mothers, fathers and parents of preterm newborns was 1/57 (1.8%), 1/57 (1.8%) and 1/29 (3.5%), respectively. In the LBW group, seropositivity in fathers was 1/50 (2%) with no seropositive mothers. Biopsy‐proven CD was found in 1/159 mothers (0.6%) and 1/79 fathers (1.3%). Mean birthweights of the newborns of seropositive mothers and fathers were 214 g (P < 0.05) and 320 g lower than those of seronegative ones, respectively. However, in logistic regression analysis it was found that seropositivity of mothers or fathers did not affect gestational age or birthweight of the newborns.

Conclusion:  Because the prevalence of CD in parents of preterm or LBW newborns is not statistically higher than the healthy population, routine CD screening in that group cannot be recommended at the time being. For more definite conclusions further studies are needed.
Effects on in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer outcomes of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐1, ‐2 and ‐3 in eutopic endometrial tissue of women with endometriosis
Authors: Kim Chung‐Hoon , Ahn Jun‐Woo , Kim Sung‐Hoon , Chae Hee‐Dong , Kang Byung‐Moon
Published: July 2011

Aim:  This study was performed to assess the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor receptor (VEGFR)‐1, ‐2 and ‐3 mRNA in eutopic endometrial tissue and their effects on in vitro fertilization–embryo transfer (IVF‐ET) outcomes in women with endometriosis.

Materials and Methods:  Twenty women with endometriosis III or IV (study group) and 20 with tubal infertility only (control group) were evaluated. Controlled ovarian stimulation in all patients consisted of the long protocol using gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone agonist. Prior to the administration of 0.1 mg triptorelin daily in the mid‐luteal phase of the preceding menstrual cycle, a biopsy specimen was taken from the endometrial cavity, and the expression levels of VEGFR‐1, ‐2 and ‐3 mRNA were analyzed with real‐time reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction.

Results:  There were no significant differences in the numbers of retrieved oocytes and mature oocytes, fertilization rate and clinical pregnancy rate between the study and control groups. However, the implantation rate was significantly lower in the study group (P < 0.05). The relative amounts of VEGFR‐1, ‐2 and ‐3 mRNA were significantly higher in the study group than in the control group (P < 0.001 each). The relative amounts of VEGFR‐1 and ‐3 mRNA were significantly higher in the non‐pregnant than in the pregnant subgroup of the study group (P < 0.01, P < 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions:  Increased expression of VEGFR in the endometrium, especially VEGFR‐1 and ‐3, may be related to the development of endometriosis and may reduce the receptivity of the endometrium.
Nutrition and income from molluscs today imply vulnerability to ocean acidification tomorrow
Authors: Cooley Sarah R , Lucey Noelle , Kite‐Powell Hauke , Doney Scott C
Published: July 2011

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from human industrial activities are causing a progressive alteration of seawater chemistry, termed ocean acidification, which has decreased seawater pH and carbonate ion concentration markedly since the Industrial Revolution. Many marine organisms, like molluscs and corals, build hard shells and skeletons using carbonate ions, and they exhibit negative overall responses to ocean acidification. This adds to other chronic and acute environmental pressures and promotes shifts away from calcifier‐rich communities. In this study, we examine the possible implications of ocean acidification on mollusc harvests worldwide by examining present production, consumption and export and by relating those data to present and future surface ocean chemistry forecast by a coupled climate‐ocean model (Community Climate System 3.1; CCSM3). We identify the ‘transition decade’ when future ocean chemistry will distinctly differ from that of today (2010), and when mollusc harvest levels similar to those of the present cannot be guaranteed if present ocean chemistry is a significant determinant of today’s mollusc production. We assess nations’ vulnerability to ocean acidification‐driven decreases in mollusc harvests by comparing nutritional and economic dependences on mollusc harvests, overall societal adaptability, and the amount of time until the transition decade. Projected transition decades for individual countries will occur 10–50 years after 2010. Countries with low adaptability, high nutritional or economic dependence on molluscs, rapidly approaching transition decades or rapidly growing populations will therefore be most vulnerable to ocean acidification‐driven mollusc harvest decreases. These transition decades suggest how soon nations should implement strategies, such as increased aquaculture of resilient species, to help maintain current per capita mollusc harvests.