bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Children's adjustment in non‐traditional families in Israel: the effect of parental sexual orientation and the number of parents on children's development
Authors: Shechner T. , Slone M. , Lobel T. E. , Shechter R.
Published: November 2011

Objectives  This study examined differences in children's psychological and social indicators in non‐traditional families in Israel, focusing on fatherless families headed by lesbian mothers and single mothers by choice. Although Israel is considered an industrialized westernized country, centrality of the traditional nuclear family predominates this country.

Methods  This factorial design study included four family types: lesbian and heterosexual mothers, each in both single and coupled parenthood. Children's measures included the Child Behavior Checklist, perception of peer relations and perceived self‐competence.

Results  Children from single parent as opposed to two‐parent families exhibited more externalizing behaviour problems and aggressiveness. Children of lesbian mothers reported more prosocial behaviours and less loneliness than children from heterosexual families. No differences emerged for perceived self‐competence across family types.

Conclusion  Mother's sexual orientation did not affect children's adjustment negatively, whereas single parenthood placed children at greater risk for some difficulties. Implications include the need for apprising health professionals of effects of family types on children's development.
Autism in Glasgow: cumulative incidence and the effects of referral age, deprivation and geographical location
Authors: Campbell M. , Reynolds L. , Cunningham J. , Minnis H. , Gillberg C.
Published: November 2011

Background  Referrals to the Greater Glasgow Community Autism Team (CAT) made before the child's sixth birthday were analysed to obtain an estimation of the proportion of children in Greater Glasgow with childhood autism and investigate whether there were any variations in diagnosis rates, or in age at referral and diagnosis, depending on deprivation or geographical location.

Methods  An analysis was made of the database recording referrals to Greater Glasgow CAT, between 2004 and 2007 inclusive, of children referred by age 6 years, comprising 584 cases. Cumulative incidence was calculated for childhood autism. Ages at referral and diagnosis were also analysed.

Results  For this subset of children, there were 246 diagnosed cases of childhood autism, a cumulative incidence from 2004 until 2007 of 11.1 per year per 10 000 children aged 0–6 years. Of children with an eventual diagnosis of autism by age 6, 72% were referred by the age of 4 years. Deprivation was found to have an association with referral and diagnostic rates, with higher rates seen in the most deprived. There was geographical variation in the cumulative incidence of autism.

Conclusion  Given that the populations were not known to differ in any manner that would lead to a true variation, the geographical variation in the cumulative incidence of autism in children up to 6 years in Greater Glasgow observed in this study is likely to represent differences in the care pathway between areas. Such differences may also explain the observed association with deprivation. Reasons for the variation are being explored.
On the forest cover–water yield debate: from demand‐ to supply‐side thinking
Authors: Ellison David , N. Futter Martyn , Bishop Kevin
Published: November 2011

Several major articles from the past decade and beyond conclude the impact of reforestation or afforestation on water yield is negative: additional forest cover will reduce and removing forests will raise downstream water availability. A second group of authors argue the opposite: planting additional forests should raise downstream water availability and intensify the hydrologic cycle. Obtaining supporting evidence for this second group of authors has been more difficult due to the larger scales at which the positive effects of forests on the water cycle may be seen. We argue that forest cover is inextricably linked to precipitation. Forest‐driven evapotranspiration removed from a particular catchment contributes to the availability of atmospheric moisture vapor and its cross‐continental transport, raising the likelihood of precipitation events and increasing water yield, in particular in continental interiors more distant from oceans. Seasonal relationships heighten the importance of this phenomenon. We review the arguments from different scales and perspectives. This clarifies the generally beneficial relationship between forest cover and the intensity of the hydrologic cycle. While evidence supports both sides of the argument – trees can reduce runoff at the small catchment scale – at larger scales, trees are more clearly linked to increased precipitation and water availability. Progressive deforestation, land conversion from forest to agriculture and urbanization have potentially negative consequences for global precipitation, prompting us to think of forest ecosystems as global public goods. Policy‐making attempts to measure product water footprints, estimate the value of ecosystem services, promote afforestation, develop drought mitigation strategies and otherwise manage land use must consider the linkage of forests to the supply of precipitation.
Modelling the potential impact of climate variability and change on species regeneration potential in the temperate forests of South‐Eastern Australia
Authors: Mok Hoi‐Fei , Arndt Stefan K. , Nitschke Craig R.
Published: November 2011

The sensitivity of early plant regeneration to environmental change makes regeneration a critical stage for understanding species response to climate change. We investigated the spatial and temporal response of eucalypt trees in the Central Highland region of south eastern Australia to high and low climate change scenarios. We developed a novel mechanistic model incorporating germination processes, TACA‐GEM, to evaluate establishment probabilities of five key eucalypt species, Eucalyptus pauciflora, Eucalyptus delegatensis, Eucalyptus regnans, Eucalyptus nitens and Eucalyptus obliqua. Changes to regeneration potential at landscape and site levels were calculated to determine climate thresholds. Model results demonstrated that climate change is likely to impact plant regeneration. We observed increases and decreases in regeneration potential depending on the ecosystem, indicating that some species will increase in abundance in some forest types, whilst other forest types will become inhabitable. In general, the dry forest ecosystems were most impacted, whilst the wet forests were least impacted. We also observed that species with seed dormancy mechanisms, like E. pauciflora and E. delegatensis, are likely to be at higher risk than those without. Landscape‐ and site‐level analysis revealed heterogeneity in species response at different scales. On a landscape scale, a 4.3 °C mean temperature increase and 22% decline in precipitation (predicted for 2080) is predicted to be a threshold for large spatial shifts in species regeneration niches across the study region, while a 2.6 °C increase and 15% decline in precipitation (predicted for 2050) will likely result in local site‐level shifts. Site‐level analysis showed that considerable declines in regeneration potential for E. delegatensis, E. pauciflora and E. nitens were modelled to occur in some ecosystems by 2050. While overall model performance and accuracy was good, better understanding of effects from extreme events and other underlying processes on regeneration will improve modelling and development of species conservation strategies.
An improved model for teaching use of electronic apex locators
Authors: Tchorz J. P. , Hellwig E. , Altenburger M. J.
Published: November 2011

Tchorz JP, Hellwig E, Altenburger MJ. An improved model for teaching use of electronic apex locators. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 307–310, 2012.

Aim  To develop a simple, practical and inexpensive model, which enables the use of electronic apex locators (EALs) during pre‐clinical and continuing education.

Methodology  Extracted teeth were placed in a mould and embedded in acrylic resin. The resin was applied in two consecutive steps to form a cavity around the root apices. A closable plastic tube serves as a valve, and a steel wire connects to the EAL.

Results  With its semi‐closed reservoir for conductive fluids surrounding the root apices, the new model enables working length measurements of root canals using EALs.

Conclusions  The model simulates the clinical situation for endodontic teaching purposes, as it allows working length determination of root canals as recommended. The measuring results of the EAL can be verified by radiography. At the same time, the roots are not directly visible and accessible to the user, allowing a precise evaluation and grading of the treatment.
Investigation into the use of complementary and alternative medicine and affecting factors in Turkish asthmatic patients
Authors: Tokem Yasemin , Aytemur Zeynep Ayfer , Yildirim Yasemin , Fadiloglu Cicek
Published: November 2011

Aims.  The purpose of this study was to examine the frequency of complementary and alternative medicine usage in asthmatic patients living in the west of Turkey, the most frequently used complementary and alternative medicine methods and socio‐demographic factors affecting this and factors related to the disease.

Background.  While the rate of complementary and alternative medicine usage in asthmatic patients and the reasons for using it vary, practices specific to different countries and regions are of interest. Differing cultural and social factors even in geographically similar regions can affect the type of complementary and alternative medicine used.

Methods.  Two hundred asthmatic patients registered in the asthma outpatient clinic of a large hospital in Turkey and who had undergone pulmonary function tests within the previous six months were included in this study, which was planned according to a descriptive design. The patients filled out a questionnaire on their demographic characteristics and complementary and alternative medicine usage.

Results.  The proportion of patients who reported using one or more of the complementary and alternative medicine methods was 63·0%. Of these patients, 61·9% were using plants and herbal treatments, 53·2% were doing exercises and 36·5% said that they prayed. The objectives of their use of complementary and alternative medicine were to reduce asthma‐related complaints (58%) and to feel better (37·8%). The proportion of people experiencing adverse effects was 3·3% (n = 4). Factors motivating asthmatic patients to use complementary and alternative medicine were the existence of comorbid diseases and a long period since diagnosis (p < 0·05). No statistically significant difference was found between the use of complementary and alternative medicine and the severity of the disease, pulmonary function test parameters, the number of asthma attacks or hospitalisations because of asthma within the last year (p > 0·05).

Relevance to clinical practice.  Understanding by nurses of the causes and patterns of the use of complementary and alternative medicine in asthmatic patients helps them in directing patient care and patient safety. Nurses should conduct comprehensive diagnostics in the light of complementary and alternative medicine use, and they should be aware of the potential risks.
Patient expectations of ‘effectiveness’ in health care: an example from medical herbalism
Authors: Little Christine V
Published: November 2011

Aims and objectives.  The study explored people’s experiences of medical herbalism, with the aim of enhancing understanding about the use of herbalism in the context of contemporary UK health care.

Background.  The popularity and use of complementary and alternative medicine in westernised societies is now well documented, and medical herbalism, in particular, is enjoying a particularly strong revival of interest. Despite this, the reasons for its sustained popularity remain unclear.

Design.  The study was underpinned by Gadamerian hermeneutic phenomenology.

Method.  Nineteen adult clients of medical herbalists were interviewed about their experiences. The processes of data collection and data analysis were informed predominantly by van Manen’s phenomenological framework and by Kvale’s framework for interview‐based studies.

Results.  Herbalism more closely met participants’ expectations of effective health care. The themes ‘dealing with illness causation’, ‘patient–practitioner collaboration’ and ‘provision of authentic evidence’ were fundamental to achieving effectiveness but were perceived as more easily attainable in the context of medical herbalism.

Conclusions.  Health care is more likely to meet the expectations of patients when its purposes, methods and goals are negotiated and made explicit, from the perspectives of both patient and health care professional. Medical herbalism has the potential to contribute usefully to participants’ healthcare, especially when used selectively and in conjunction with conventional health care.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The continued popularity of complementary and alternative medicine amongst the general public makes its acknowledgement in conventional health care more important than ever. In the context of the integrative health movement, it is therefore essential that health care professionals develop their understanding about patient practices and preferences, if a responsive health care system is to be maintained. Nurses are in a prime position to influence the knowledge base and future direction of integrative health care, especially in relation to the patient perspective.
Field‐scale evaluation of effects of nitrogen deposition on the functioning of heathland ecosystems
Authors: Jones Alan G. , Power Sally A.
Published: November 2011

1. Plant communities that are adapted to low levels of nutrient availability are particularly sensitive to the effects of elevated nitrogen (N) deposition. Although site‐level manipulation experiments have been used widely to examine the effects of N deposition on (semi‐)natural ecosystems under controlled conditions, relatively few studies have investigated field‐scale impacts of elevated ambient N deposition on native plant communities and ecosystems.

2. This study investigates the relationship between atmospheric N deposition, plant and soil nutrient status and microbial enzyme activities at 32 lowland heathland sites across the UK. Sites were chosen to cover a range of N deposition rates (13.3–30.8 kg N ha−1 year−1), geographical areas and different geologies.

3. Significant relationships were found between rates of N deposition (total, reduced and oxidized) and concentrations of N and phosphorus (P) in Calluna shoots, litter and soil; relationships were generally stronger with total and reduced forms of N, compared with oxidized N. Litter and humus layers were deeper at sites receiving higher atmospheric N inputs, suggesting increased rates of soil carbon and N accumulation, despite higher levels of phenol‐oxidase activity (implying faster rates of organic matter decomposition) at these sites.

4. The combination of elevated plant and soil P concentrations at sites receiving greater N inputs suggests strongly that N is increasing the availability and uptake rates of P, in addition to N. Furthermore, significant interactions between temperature and N deposition on indices relating to productivity and the turnover and uptake of nutrients highlight the influence of climate on ecosystem response to N deposition.

5. Synthesis: Field‐scale evidence of changes in rates of nutrient cycling, organic matter accumulation and plant biochemistry suggests that ambient levels of N deposition are affecting the functioning of many heathland ecosystems and that the magnitude of these effects is also influenced by climate. Since such changes are known to be associated with reduced resistance to environmental stress and loss of plant diversity, current (and predicted future) levels of N deposition are likely to have important implications for the conservation and long‐term sustainability of nutrient‐poor ecosystems, particularly in the face of climate change.
A pattern recognition method for lattice distortion measurement from HRTEM images
Authors: PRZYBYŁA P.
Published: November 2011

The idea of the method is to analyse a crystal lattice by creating a grid of quadrilaterals corresponding to repeated cells that are visible in the image. This approach combines image processing elements with a continuum field theory, to create a distortion‐independent similarity measure that is used to select the most appropriate among possible lattice configurations. Subsequently, displacement and distortion fields are computed from individual cell positions. The method allows one to obtain these fields even for images where a periodic cell does not necessarily appear as a single dot of intensity in a high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM) image, which results in a lower accuracy of commonly used approaches, namely geometric phase and peak finding. The results obtained from this method are verified quantitatively by comparison with known distortion tensor distributions and Burgers vector values on both simulated and real images.
Serological monitoring of protection of sheep against Echinococcus granulosus induced by the EG95 vaccine
Authors: HEATH D. D. , KOOLAARD J.
Published: November 2011

Although immunity to Echinococcus granulosus in sheep has been shown to be antibody‐mediated and complement‐dependent and can be passively transferred in colostrum, in animals vaccinated with EG95, the relationship between protection against an oral challenge infection with E. granulosus eggs and anti‐EG95 IgG ELISA absorbance values at the time of challenge has not been satisfactorily proven. Using a combination of results from three EG95 vaccination trials, we have found that the IgG ELISA absorbance at the time of challenge infection explains approximately 50% (P ≤ 0·001) of the variability in the percentage protection against an oral challenge with E. granulosus eggs (transformed with arcsin).
Functional characterisation of HvCO1, the barley (Hordeum vulgare) flowering time ortholog of CONSTANS
Authors: Campoli Chiara , Drosse Benedikt , Searle Iain , Coupland George , von Korff Maria
Published: November 2011

Variation in photoperiod response is a major factor determining plant development and the agronomic performance of crops. The genetic control of photoperiodic flowering has been elucidated in the model plant Arabidopsis, and many of the identified genes are structurally conserved in the grasses. In this study, HvCO1, the closest barley ortholog of the key photoperiod response gene CONSTANS in Arabidopsis, was over‐expressed in the spring barley Golden Promise. Over‐expression of HvCO1 accelerated time to flowering in long‐ and short‐day conditions and caused up‐regulation of HvFT1 mRNA under long‐day conditions. However, the transgenic plants retained a response to photoperiod, suggesting the presence of photoperiod response factors acting downstream of HvCO1 transcription. Analysis of a population segregating for HvCO1 over‐expression and natural genetic variation at Ppd‐H1 demonstrated that Ppd‐H1 acts downstream of HvCO1 transcription on HvFT1 expression and flowering. Furthermore, variation at Ppd‐H1 did not affect diurnal expression of HvCO1 or HvCO2. Over‐expression of HvCO1 increased transcription of the spring allele of Vrn‐H1 in long‐ and short‐day conditions, while genetic variation at Ppd‐H1 did not affect Vrn‐H1 expression. Over‐expression of HvCO1 and natural genetic variation at Ppd‐H1 accelerated inflorescence development and stem elongation. Thus, HvCO1 probably induces flowering by activating HvFT1 whilst Ppd‐H1 regulates HvFT1 independently of HvCO1 mRNA, and all three genes also appear to have a strong effect in promoting inflorescence development.
Uncovering genetic and molecular interactions among floral meristem identity genes in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Grandi Valentina , Gregis Veronica , Kater Martin M.
Published: November 2011

The inflorescence meristem produces floral primordia that remain undifferentiated during the first stages of flower development. Genes controlling floral meristem identity include LEAFY (LFY), APETALA1 (AP1), CAULIFLOWER (CAL), LATE MERISTEM IDENTITY 1 (LMI1), SHORT VEGETATIVE PHASE (SVP) and AGAMOUS‐LIKE24 (AGL24). The lfy mutant shows partial reversions of flowers into inflorescence shoot‐like structures and this phenotype is enhanced in the lfy ap1 double mutant. Here we show that combining the lfy mutant with agl24 and svp single mutants or with the agl24 svp double mutant enhances the lfy phenotype and that the lfy agl24 svp triple mutant phenocopies the lfy ap1 double mutant. Analysis of the molecular interactions between LFY, AGL24 and SVP showed that LFY is a repressor of AGL24 and SVP, whereas LMI1 is a positive regulator of these genes. Moreover, AGL24 and SVP positively regulate AP1 and LFY by direct binding to their regulatory regions. Since all these genes are important for establishing floral meristem identity, regulatory loops are probably important to maintain the correct relative expression levels of these genes.
Can sputum collection practices for tuberculosis improve laboratory diagnosis of pneumonic plague in developing countries?
Authors: Boothby E. , Shako J. C. , Bertherat E.
Published: November 2011

Africa reports 90% of human plague cases yet no guidelines currently exist for the safe and accurate collection of sputum from patients with suspected pneumonic plague. Using existing tuberculosis guidelines as a model and in conjunction with epidemiological and clinical features of pneumonic plague, the authors describe the importance of formal guidelines to enhance sputum collection practices and improve safety in developing countries. A model for suggested guidelines is given.
Practices to improve identification of adult antiretroviral therapy failure at the Lighthouse Trust clinic in Lilongwe, Malawi
Authors: Vorkas Charles K. , Tweya Hannock , Mzinganjira Dalitso , Dickie George , Weigel Ralf , Phiri Sam , Hosseinipour Mina C.
Published: November 2011

Objectives  Evaluating treatment failure is critical when deciding to modify antiretroviral therapy (ART). Virologic Assessment Forms (VAFs) were implemented in July 2008 as a prerequisite for ordering viral load. The form requires assessment of clinical and immunologic status.

Methods  Using the Electronic Medical Record (EMR), we retrospectively evaluated patients who met 2006 WHO guidelines for immunologic failure (≥15 years old; on ART ≥6 months; CD4 count 50% drop from peak OR CD4 persistently <100 cells) at the Lighthouse Trust clinic from December 2007 to December 2009. We compared virologic screening, VAF implementation and ART modification during the same period using Fisher’s exact tests and unpaired t‐tests as appropriate.

Results  Of 7000 enrolled ART patients ≥15 years old with at least two CD4 counts, 10% had immunologic failure with a median follow‐up time on ART of 1.4 years (IQR: 0.8–2.3). Forty (6%) viral loads were ordered: 14 (35%) were detectable (>400 HIV RNA copies/mL) and one (7%) patient was switched to second‐line therapy. Overall, 259 VAFs were completed: 67% for immunologic failure and 33% for WHO Stage 4 condition. Before VAF implementation, 1% of patients had viral loads drawn during routine care, whereas afterwards, 8% did (P < 0.0001; 95% CI: 0.03–0.08).

Conclusions  Clinicians did not identify a large proportion of immunologic failure patients for screening. Implementation of VAFs produced little improvement in virologic screening during routine care. Better training and monitoring systems are needed.
Protective effects of phlorotannins against ultraviolet B radiation in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Cha Seon‐Heui , Ko Chang‐Ik , Kim Daekyung , Jeon You‐Jin
Published: November 2011

Exposure to ultraviolet B (UV‐B) radiation has been associated with a variety of adverse effects in all forms of life, including micro‐organisms, plants, animals and humans. Ultraviolet B induces cell damage at the molecular level and consequently organisms must employ strategies to protect themselves from sunlight and to repair UV‐B‐induced cellular damage. In this study, the UV‐B protective effects of four different phlorotannins isolated from a brown alga (Ecklonia cava) were determined using zebrafish (Danio rerio) as an in vivo model. Zebrafish embryos were pretreated with phlorotannins and exposed to UV‐B (50 mJ/cm2). The heart rate, generation of reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide, cell death and hyperpigmentation were assessed in order to evaluate UV‐B‐induced photo‐damage. Treatment of the embryos with the algal phorotannins reduced UV‐B‐induced reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide levels, protected against UV‐B‐induced cell death and significantly reduced hyperpigmentation. We therefore suggest that phlorotannins isolated from E. cava can protect against UV‐B radiation.

Editor Note  Readers of the journal may be unfamiliar with the use of zebrafish embryos in research studies. There is no indication in this article of an ethical review of the study. This is because the use of fish embryos in research, at least in the UK, is not subject to a licensing procedure if they are less than 5 days post fertilization (dpf). In this study the embryos were 2 dpf.
An immunohistochemical study of the origin of the solid strand in syringoma, using carcinoembryonic antigen, epithelial membrane antigen, and cytokeratin 5
Authors: Kim Byung Chul , Park Eun Joo , Kwon In Ho , Cho Hee Jin , Park Hye Rim , Kim Kwang Ho , Kim Kwang Joong
Published: November 2011

Background  Although much research has been conducted into the origin of syringoma, the histogenesis and differentiation of it remains controversial. The published studies examined various antibodies, and our study is an additional immunohistochemical work‐up.

Objective  We attempted to identify the cell that acts as the precise origin of a syringoma, based on a comparative analysis of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), epithelial membrane antigen (EMA), and cytokeratin (CK) 5 through immunohistochemical staining in the solid strand of basophilic epithelial cells of syringoma.

Methods  A total of 31 patients with biopsy‐confirmed syringoma were included in this study. Each sample was analyzed with antibodies to CEA, EMA, and CK5. These markers were indicating each part of the normal sweat gland structure: CEA stains the luminal surface of sweat ductal structures; EMA stains the peripheral cells of normal dermal ducts and the intraepidermal duct; CK5 stains the outer cells of the dermal duct and lower intraepidermal duct but does not stain the intraepidermal duct located in the upper epidermis.

Results  We were able to confirm that the solid strands stained for EMA and CK5, as did the outer cells of the ductal structure. However, the solid strands did not stain with CEA.

Conclusions  The results indicated that solid strands observed in syringomas originate from the outer cells of the two layers of cells that compose the lower epidermal duct or the transitional portion between the intraepidermal duct and dermal duct in the normal eccrine or apocrine structure. Thus, we surmise that a syringoma is developed by the proliferation of these cells.
Polygalacturonase‐inhibiting proteins – leucine‐rich repeat proteins in plant defence
Authors: Maulik A. , Sarkar A. I. , Devi S. , Basu S.
Published: November 2011

Plant polygalacturonase‐inhibiting proteins (PGIPs) belong to the leucine‐rich repeat (LRR) family and are known to prevent pathogen invasion by inhibiting the plant cell wall degrading enzyme, polygalacturonase. Our study reveals that these multigene‐encoded defence proteins found in flowering plants only exhibit identical domain architecture with 10 tandemly‐arranged LRRs. This implies that variations of PGIP inhibitory properties are not associated with the number of the repeats but with subtle changes in the sequence content of the repeats. The first and eighth repeat contain more mutations compared to the strict conservation of the plant‐specific LRRs or any repeat at other positions. Each of these repeats forms a separate cluster in the phylogenetic tree, both within and across plant families, thus suggesting uniqueness with respect to their position. A study of the genes encoding PGIPs, shows the existence of two categories (i) single exon and hence no intron; and (ii) two exons with an intron in between. Analyses of the intron phase and correlation of the exon–intron structure with the compact structural modules in PGIPs support insertion of introns in the pre‐existing single exon genes and thus the intron late model. Lack of conservation of phase across families and formation of individual clusters for each family in the phylogenetic tree drawn with the intron sequences illustrate the event of insertion that took place separately in each of these families.
The relative effect of citral on mitotic microtubules in wheat roots and BY2 cells
Authors: Chaimovitsh D. , Rogovoy (Stelmakh) O. , Altshuler O. , Belausov E. , Abu‐Abied M. , Rubin B. , Sadot E. , Dudai N.
Published: November 2011

The plant volatile monoterpene citral is a highly active compound with suggested allelopathic traits. Seed germination and seedling development are inhibited in the presence of citral, and it disrupts microtubules in both plant and animal cells in interphase. We addressed the following additional questions: can citral interfere with cell division; what is the relative effect of citral on mitotic microtubules compared to interphase cortical microtubules; what is its effect on newly formed cell plates; and how does it affect the association of microtubules with γ‐tubulin? In wheat seedlings, citral led to inhibition of root elongation, curvature of newly formed cell walls and deformation of microtubule arrays. Citral’s effect on microtubules was both dose‐ and time‐dependent, with mitotic microtubules appearing to be more sensitive to citral than cortical microtubules. Association of γ‐tubulin with microtubules was more sensitive to citral than were the microtubules themselves. To reveal the role of disrupted mitotic microtubules in dictating aberrations in cell plates in the presence of citral, we used tobacco BY2 cells expressing GFP‐Tua6. Citral disrupted mitotic microtubules, inhibited the cell cycle and increased the frequency of asymmetric cell plates in these cells. The time scale of citral’s effect in BY2 cells suggested a direct influence on cell plates during their formation. Taken together, we suggest that at lower concentrations, citral interferes with cell division by disrupting mitotic microtubules and cell plates, and at higher concentrations it inhibits cell elongation by disrupting cortical microtubules.
Does ampicillin‐sulbactam cause false positivity of (1,3)‐beta‐D‐glucan assay? A prospective evaluation of 15 patients without invasive fungal infections*
Authors: Metan Gokhan , Agkus Cigdem , Nedret Koc A. , Elmali Ferhan , Finkelman Malcolm A.
Published: November 2011

The purpose of this study was to investigate the interaction between intravenous ampicillin‐sulbactam treatment and (1,3)‐beta‐D‐glucan (BDG) assay. Fifteen patients with a median age of 60 (16–81) without known risk factors for invasive fungal infections who received a daily dose of 3 × 2 g ampicillin‐sulbactam monotherapy from different batches were included in the study. Thirteen patients had soft tissue infections. The 5 of 13 patients who went under surgery had surgical dressings. Serum samples were obtained both before and after antibiotic infusion on the first, third, seventh and tenth days of an ampicillin‐sulbactam treatment course. BDG was assayed using the Fungitell kit (Associates of Cape Cod, East Falmouth, MA, USA) according to manufacturers’ specifications. All serum samples were also tested for galactomannan (GM) antigenemia by Platelia Aspergillus ELISA (Bio‐Rad Laboratories, Marnes‐la‐Coquette, France). A total of 37 of 117 serum samples were positive for BDG at a threshold of 80 pg ml−1. Seven of 37 BDG positive serum samples had a GM index ≥0.5. When a cutoff value of ≥0.5 was used for GM positivity, 16 (13.3%) serum samples were positive. For a cutoff value of ≥0.7, eight (6.6%) serum samples were positive. There were no statistically significant differences in the median BDG levels (P = 0.47) or median GM indices (P = 0.28) of the various sampling times. None of the SAM vials tested positive for BDG or GM. After ruling out fungal infections and all known potential causes of false BDG positivity, environmental contamination remained possible cause of BDG reactivity. We did not observe any significant association of ampicillin‐sulbactam administration and positive assays for BDG or GM.
DNA Methylation Status in Tissues of Sheep Clones
Authors: Zhao LX , Zhao GP , Guo RQ , Zhang D , Li XH , Zhou HM
Published: November 2011

Contents

Genomic imprinting and DNA methylation play an important role in mammalian development. Many cloned animals showed heterogeneous DNA methylation profiles. However, there are fewer reports in cloned lambs because of a lack of genomic imprinting information. In this study, we investigated DNA methylation patterns in CpG islands and differentially methylated regions of putative imprinted gene Peg10 and imprinted genes Dlk1, Igf2R and H19 in cloned lambs. Five organs from two cloned lambs died shortly after birth and two normal controls were investigated. We observed normal DNA methylation profiles in cloned lambs. The imprinted genes Dlk1, Igf2R and H19 in livers, kidneys, hearts, muscles and lungs of the two cloned lambs exhibited relatively normal DNA methylation, except for Peg10 showing some differences between controls and cloned lambs. Our results indicate that somatic cell nuclear transfer–produced sheep exhibited relatively normal DNA methylation pattern and experienced normal DNA methylation reprogramming at imprinted loci.
Cultural issues in child maltreatment
Authors: Raman Shanti , Hodes Deborah
Published: November 2011

Aims:  Waves of immigration from the latter half of the 20th century have changed the cultural and ethnic mix of major regions of the world. Dynamic multicultural societies now are a reality across the Western world. The relationship and influence of these diverse cultures to the understanding and identification of child abuse and neglect is challenging and complex. Health professionals working with children from culturally and linguistically diverse groups often find themselves with the challenge of exploring and resolving the tension between definitions of harm in child protection practice and various cultural and child‐rearing practices. In this paper, we set out ways of thinking about the influence of culture when approaching and dealing with the suspicion of child maltreatment.

Methods:  We will explore how culture shapes the experiences of childhood, child‐rearing practices, and identify common barriers in working with children and families from culturally diverse backgrounds when presenting with child maltreatment. We will use case examples from Europe and Australia to illustrate the real life challenges of working in the area of child maltreatment across cultures. We will review the scientific literature exploring the nexus between culture and child maltreatment, identifying the gaps in the literature and highlight areas for future research.

Results:  We suggest a model for dealing with cultural issues in child maltreatment that is culturally competent and respectful.

Conclusions:  The model for cultural competency in child health and child protective services incorporates four domains for advocacy and action – individual, professional, organisational and systemic.
Incentive device improves spacer technique but not clinical outcome in preschool children with asthma
Authors: Schultz André , Sly Peter D , Zhang Guicheng , Venter André , Le Souëf Peter N , Devadason Sunalene G
Published: November 2011

Aim:  To investigate the influence of an incentive device, the Funhaler, on spacer technique and symptom control in young children with asthma and recurrent wheeze.

Methods:  Randomised controlled trial where 132 2–6 year old asthmatic children received regular inhaled fluticasone through Aerochamber Plus, or Funhaler. The setting was a research clinic at Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Australia. Subjects were followed up for a year. The main outcome measure was asthma symptoms. Proficiency in spacer technique was measured as salbutamol inhaled from spacer onto filter. Quality of life was measured every three months. Groups were compared in terms of spacer technique, symptoms and quality of life. The relationship between spacer technique and clinical outcome was examined.

Results:  There was no difference between Funhaler and Aerochamber groups in wheeze free days, cough free days, bronchodilator free days or quality of life (P = 0.90, 0.87, 0.74 and 0.11 respectively). Spacer technique was better in the Funhaler group (P = 0.05), particularly in subjects younger than 4 years of age (P = 0.002). Drug dose on filter (as the mean of five 100 mg doses) ranged from zero to 136 mg.

Conclusions:  Use of Funhaler incentive device does not improve clinical outcome, but improves spacer technique in children younger than 4 years. Variability in drug delivery is large in young children using pressurised metered dose inhalers and spacers.
KHA‐CARI guideline: Biochemical and haematological targets: Haemoglobin concentrations in patients using erythropoietin‐stimulating agents
Authors: MCMAHON LAWRENCE P , MACGINLEY ROBERT
Published: November 2011

This is an update of a previous CARI Guideline on management of anaemia in CKD patients.
Gadamer’s two horizons: listening to the voices in nursing history
Authors: Bradshaw Ann E
Published: November 2011

BRADSHAW AE. Nursing Inquiry 2013; 20: 82–92  Gadamer’s two horizons: listening to the voices in nursing history

Brian Abel‐Smith’s A History of the Nursing Profession published in 1960 marked a new critical approach to interpreting British nursing history in the light of modern culture. This approach was taken forward by most nursing history writers. In addition, some British nursing history writers, notably Monica Baly, Celia Davies and Anne Marie Rafferty, as well as Abel‐Smith himself, have influenced the direction of British nursing policy. This study argues that the current method of interpreting nursing history, through the revisionist lens of what Patricia D’Antonio calls ‘the mighty triumvirate of race, class and gender’, makes a crucial omission. According to Hans‐Georg Gadamer, the hermeneutical philosopher, historical interpretation should be a mutual dialogue of the ‘then’ and the ‘now’. But in modern nursing history writing the present horizon dominates. In order to allow the past horizon to speak to the present, this study examines the textbooks of British nursing matrons and tutors 1873–1971. These primary sources show that nurses were taught to develop Christian virtues in order to become good nurses. This study suggests that understanding and engaging with these voices, and allowing them to speak to the present, is relevant for current British nursing as well as for nursing worldwide.
Impact of obesity on respiratory function
Authors: LITTLETON STEPHEN W.
Published: November 2011

Obesity has long been recognized as having significant effects on respiratory function. The topic has been studied for at least the last half century, and some clear patterns have emerged. Obese patients tend to have higher respiratory rates and lower tidal volumes. Total respiratory system compliance is reduced for a variety of reasons, which will be discussed. Lung volumes tend to be decreased, especially expiratory reserve volume. Spirometry, gas exchange and airway resistance all tend to be relatively well preserved when adjusted for lung volumes. Patients may be mildly hypoxaemic, possibly due to ventilation–perfusion mismatching at the base of the lungs, where microatelectasis is likely to occur. Weight loss leads to a reversal of these changes. For all of these changes, the distribution of fat, that is, upper versus lower body, may be more important than body mass index.
Role of neutrophils in persistent airway obstruction due to refractory asthma
Authors: CHOI JAE‐SUNG , JANG AN SOO , PARK JONG SOOK , PARK SUNG WOO , PAIK SANG HYUN , PARK JAI SOUNG , UH SOO‐TAEK , KIM YONG‐HOON , PARK CHOON SIK
Published: November 2011

Background and objective:  One of the clinical manifestations of refractory asthma (RA) in a certain group of patients is persistent airway obstruction (PAO), despite treatment with high doses of inhaled and/or systemic corticosteroids. Airway neutrophilic inflammation is frequently observed in RA; however, the relationship between neutrophilic inflammation and PAO has not been evaluated in this group of patients. The aim of this study was to compare the clinical parameters and patterns of inflammatory cells between patients with or without PAO due to RA, and to identify the factors associated with PAO.

Methods:  Seventy‐seven patients with RA were recruited from a cohort of 2298 asthmatic patients. Sputum differential cell counts were performed at initial presentation. Clinical and physiological parameters were compared between patients with (n = 19) or without PAO (n = 58).

Results:  The group with PAO had a longer duration of asthma and a higher frequency of near‐fatal asthma than the non‐PAO group, although higher doses of inhaled corticosteroids were used in the PAO group (P = 0.037). Neutrophilic inflammation was predominant in the group with PAO, whereas eosinophilic inflammation was predominant in the non‐PAO group (P = 0.003). When both groups were stratified according to smoking status, the non‐smoking PAO group had the longest duration of asthma, with early onset of asthma (P < 0.05). The non‐smoking PAO group tended to have the highest percentage of sputum neutrophils. Irrespective of smoking status, the percentage of sputum eosinophils was significantly higher in the non‐PAO group than in the PAO group.

Conclusions:  Patients with PAO due to RA show different clinical manifestations when compared with those without PAO and have neutrophil‐dominant airway inflammation.
A disintegrin and metalloprotease (ADAM) 33 protein in patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis
Authors: SHAFFIQ ASIF , HAITCHI HANS MICHAEL , PANG YUN YUNG , ALANGARI ABDULLAH A. , JONES MARK G. , MARSHALL BEN G. , HOWARTH PETER H. , DAVIES DONNA E. , O'REILLY KATHERINE M.A.
Published: November 2011

Background and objective:  A disintegrin and metalloproteinase (ADAM) 33 is a susceptibility gene associated with inflammatory lung and skin diseases. It is selectively expressed in mesenchymal cells, and its metalloprotease activity has been linked to angiogenesis and tissue remodelling. A soluble form of ADAM33 (sADAM33) has been identified in the bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) of asthmatic patients, and its levels inversely correlate with lung function. Because of its association with inflammatory lung diseases, it was hypothesized that sADAM33 is elevated in BALF of patients with pulmonary sarcoidosis.

Methods:  After removal of Ig using Protein A/G and enrichment using Concanavalin A beads, sADAM33 was identified in BALF by Western blotting. A fluorescence resonance energy transfer peptide cleavage assay was used to assess ADAM33‐like activity in BALF.

Results:  sADAM33 protein in BALF was detected as a 25 kDa fragment, and levels were significantly increased in samples from sarcoid patients when compared to healthy controls (P < 0.05). Levels of sADAM33 were inversely correlated with lung function (FVC%) (P < 0.05) and DLCO % predicted (P < 0.01). No difference in sADAM33 enzymatic activity was observed between healthy and sarcoid BALF samples.

Conclusions:  Release of sADAM33 is increased in sarcoid and may be associated with abnormal lung function. sADAM33 may be a biomarker of lung tissue inflammation and remodelling in sarcoid.
Non‐invasive assessment of liver fibrosis in patients after the Fontan operation
Authors: Furukawa Takeshi , Akimoto Katsumi , Ohtsuki Masahiro , Sato Keiko , Suzuki Mitsuyoshi , Takahashi Ken , Kishiro Masahiko , Shimizu Toshiaki , Kawasaki Shiori
Published: November 2011

Background:  This study analyzed the change in liver fibrosis markers after the Fontan operation and investigated their clinical usefulness as an index of congestive liver fibrosis.

Methods:  The study enrolled 24 patients who underwent the Fontan operation between January 1994 and December 2008. We subdivided the postoperative period into four intervals and then compared the hepatological markers during each. Eighteen patients underwent postoperative cardiac catheterization and the correlation between hepatological markers and the inferior vena cava (IVC) pressure was analyzed.

Results:  The mean age of the patients was 138.6 months and the mean interval between the Fontan operation and the examination was 97.8 months. Type IV collagen was extremely high in every interval (I, 286 ± 93; II, 265 ± 93; III, 305 ± 143; IV, 206 ± 70), while none of the laboratory variables changed significantly in each interval. A significant positive correlation was observed between type IV collagen and the IVC pressure, but no significant correlation with any other hepatological marker was detected.

Conclusions:  No specific parameter that reflects the progress in liver fibrosis was identified in this study. The possibility exists that type IV collagen reflects the degree of hepatic congestion.
Effect of body mass index‐z score on adverse levels of cardiovascular disease risk factors
Authors: Katsuren Keisuke , Nakamura Kimitoshi , Ohta Takao
Published: November 2011

Background:  Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors are associated with body mass index z‐score (BMISD) and/or insulin resistance (IR). However, the correlation between adverse levels of these risk factors and BMISD, and the effect of IR on these associations are not fully understood in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between adverse levels of CVD risk factors and BMISD, and the effect of IR on these associations in schoolchildren.

Methods:  Conventional CVD risk factors, C‐reactive protein (CRP), uric acid (UA) and adiponectin were determined in 757 boys and 494 girls aged between 7 and 12 years. IR was assessed by the homeostasis model approximation index.

Results:  BMISD were linearly associated with relative risks having adverse levels of all factors, except for glucose and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) in boys, and except for glucose, LDL‐C and adiponectin in girls (P < 0.01–0.001). These associations were weakened after adjustment for IR, but still significant in cases of UA and CRP in boys and UA, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and CRP in girls (P < 0.01–0.001).

Conclusion:  The relative risk of having adverse levels of most CVD risk factors in school children increased across the entire range of BMISD. IR contributed to most of these relative risks, but BMISD itself also contributed to these relative risks. To prevent future development of CVD, it might be important for schoolchildren to maintain BMISD within normal range. However, in cases of hyper LDL‐cholesterolemia, we should consider causes other than BMISD.