bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genetic basis of kidney cancer: Role of genomics for the development of disease-based therapeutics
Authors: Linehan W. Marston
Published: October 2012

Kidney cancer is not a single disease; it is made up of a number of different types of cancer, including clear cell, type 1 papillary, type 2 papillary, chromophobe, TFE3, TFEB, and oncocytoma. Sporadic, nonfamilial kidney cancer includes clear cell kidney cancer (75%), type 1 papillary kidney cancer (10%), papillary type 2 kidney cancer (including collecting duct and medullary RCC) (5%), the microphalmia-associated transcription (MiT) family translocation kidney cancers (TFE3, TFEB, and MITF), chromophobe kidney cancer (5%), and oncocytoma (5%). Each has a distinct histology, a different clinical course, responds differently to therapy, and is caused by mutation in a different gene. Genomic studies identifying the genes for kidney cancer, including the VHL, MET, FLCN, fumarate hydratase, succinate dehydrogenase, TSC1, TSC2, and TFE3 genes, have significantly altered the ways in which patients with kidney cancer are managed. While seven FDA-approved agents that target the VHL pathway have been approved for the treatment of patients with advanced kidney cancer, further genomic studies, such as whole genome sequencing, gene expression patterns, and gene copy number, will be required to gain a complete understanding of the genetic basis of kidney cancer and of the kidney cancer gene pathways and, most importantly, to provide the foundation for the development of effective forms of therapy for patients with this disease.
Disruption of Abscisic Acid Signaling Constitutively Activates Arabidopsis Resistance to the Necrotrophic FungusPlectosphaerella cucumerina
Authors: Sánchez-Vallet Andrea , López Gemma , Ramos Brisa , Delgado-Cerezo Magdalena , Riviere Marie-Pierre , Llorente Francisco , Fernández Paula Virginia , Miedes Eva , Estevez José Manuel , Grant Murray , Molina Antonio
Published: October 2012

Plant resistance to necrotrophic fungi is regulated by a complex set of signaling pathways that includes those mediated by the hormones salicylic acid (SA), ethylene (ET), jasmonic acid (JA), and abscisic acid (ABA). The role of ABA in plant resistance remains controversial, as positive and negative regulatory functions have been described depending on the plant-pathogen interaction analyzed. Here, we show that ABA signaling negatively regulates Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) resistance to the necrotrophic fungus Plectosphaerella cucumerina. Arabidopsis plants impaired in ABA biosynthesis, such as the aba1-6 mutant, or in ABA signaling, like the quadruple pyr/pyl mutant (pyr1pyl1pyl2pyl4), were more resistant to P. cucumerina than wild-type plants. In contrast, the hab1-1abi1-2abi2-2 mutant impaired in three phosphatases that negatively regulate ABA signaling displayed an enhanced susceptibility phenotype to this fungus. Comparative transcriptomic analyses of aba1-6 and wild-type plants revealed that the ABA pathway negatively regulates defense genes, many of which are controlled by the SA, JA, or ET pathway. In line with these data, we found that aba1-6 resistance to P. cucumerina was partially compromised when the SA, JA, or ET pathway was disrupted in this mutant. Additionally, in the aba1-6 plants, some genes encoding cell wall-related proteins were misregulated. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy and biochemical analyses of cell walls from aba1-6 and wild-type plants revealed significant differences in their Fourier transform infrared spectratypes and uronic acid and cellulose contents. All these data suggest that ABA signaling has a complex function in Arabidopsis basal resistance, negatively regulating SA/JA/ET-mediated resistance to necrotrophic fungi.
Strategic issues for training
Authors: Fojt Martin
Published: October 2012

There are many different views and opinions held about the value of training. Some people, of course, reach the top without any formal training whatsoever and expect others to do
the same. This is all well and good if, presumably, you are able to train yourself. Most need the support of formally organized training courses or continuous learning, working on the assumption that there are always things to learn. It does not matter how old or experienced you are, there will always be a gap in your knowledge that requires attention. Beware the people who know it all as they will be the ones who have the blind spots and just cannot see trouble ahead. If these people are at the top of the organization and just happened to be in the right place at the right time, which could happen if an organization has been particluarly successful, then this could have disastrous consequences on the business. Business means change, and if you cannot cope or are not prepared to accept or adapt to this change, the end result is inevitable.
Impaired sustained attention in euthymic bipolar disorder patients and non‐affected relatives: an fMRI study
Authors: Sepede Gianna , De Berardis Domenico , Campanella Daniela , Perrucci Mauro Gianni , Ferretti Antonio , Serroni Nicola , Moschetta Francesco Saverio , Del Gratta Cosimo , Salerno Rosa Maria , Ferro Filippo Maria , Di Giannantonio Massimo , Onofrj Marco , Romani Gian Luca , Gambi Francesco
Published: October 2012

Sepede G, De Berardis D, Campanella D, Perrucci MG, Ferretti A, Serroni N, Moschetta FS, Del Gratta C, Salerno RM, Ferro FM, Di Giannantonio M, Onofrj M, Romani GL, Gambi F. Impaired sustained attention in euthymic bipolar disorder patients and non‐affected relatives: an fMRI study. Bipolar Disord 2012: 14: 764–779. © 2012 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2012 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  Behavioral deficits in sustained attention have been reported during both acute and euthymic phases of type I bipolar disorder (BD‐I) and also in non‐affected relatives of bipolar disorder (BD) patients. In particular, selective failure in target recognition was proposed as a potential trait marker for BD, but there are few studies exploring the neural correlates. The aim of the present study was to analyze the behavioral and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) response of euthymic BD‐I patients and non‐affected relatives during a sustained attention task.

Methods:  Twenty‐four euthymic BD‐I patients, 22 non‐affected first‐degree relatives of BD‐I subjects, and 24 matched controls underwent a continuous performance test (CPT) with two levels of difficulty during event‐related fMRI scanning.

Results:  Both patients and relatives showed a lower accuracy in target detection when compared to controls. The fMRI data analysis revealed between‐group differences in several brain regions involved in sustained attention. During error in target recognition, both patients and relatives showed a larger activation in the bilateral insula and the posterior part of the middle cingulate cortex. By contrast, during correct target response, only patients failed to activate the right insula, whereas relatives showed an increased activation of the left insula and bilateral inferior parietal lobule – limited to the higher attention load – and an augmented deactivation of the posterior cingulate/retrosplenial cortex.

Conclusions:  A selective impairment in target recognition during a CPT was behaviorally and functionally detectable in both euthymic BD‐I patients and non‐affected first‐degree relatives, suggesting that specific sustained attention deficits may be a potential trait marker for BD‐I.
Signal transduction pathway analysis in desmoid‐type fibromatosis: Transforming growth factor–β, COX2 and sex steroid receptors
Authors: Mignemi Nicholas A. , Itani Doha M. , Fasig John H. , Keedy Vicki L. , Hande Kenneth R. , Whited Brent W. , Homlar Kelly C. , Correa Hernan , Coffin Cheryl M. , Black Jennifer O. , Yi Yajun , Halpern Jennifer L. , Holt Ginger E. , Schwartz Herbert S. , Schoenecker Jonathan G. , Cates Justin M. M.
Published: October 2012

Despite reports of sex steroid receptor and COX2 expression in desmoid‐type fibromatosis, responses to single agent therapy with anti‐estrogens and non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs are unpredictable. Perhaps combination pharmacotherapy might be more effective in desmoid tumors that co‐express these targets. Clearly, further understanding of the signaling pathways deregulated in desmoid tumors is essential for the development of targeted molecular therapy. Transforming growth factor–β (TGFβ) and bone morphogenetic proteins (BMP) are important regulators of fibroblast proliferation and matrix deposition, but little is known about the TGFβ superfamily in fibromatosis. A tissue microarray representing 27 desmoid tumors was constructed; 14 samples of healing scar and six samples of normal fibrous tissue were included for comparison. Expression of selected receptors and activated downstream transcription factors of TGFβ family signaling pathways, β–catenin, sex steroid hormone receptors and COX2 were assessed using immunohistochemistry; patterns of co–expression were explored via correlational statistical analyses. In addition to β–catenin, immunoreactivity for phosphorylated SMAD2/3 (indicative of active TGFβ signaling) and COX2 was significantly increased in desmoid tumors compared with healing scar and quiescent fibrous tissue. Low levels of phosphorylated SMAD1/5/8 were detected in only a minority of cases. Transforming growth factor–β receptor type 1 and androgen receptor were expressed in both desmoid tumors and scar, but not in fibrous tissue. Estrogen receptor–β was present in all cases studied. Transforming growth factor–β signaling appears to be activated in desmoid‐type fibromatosis and phosphorylated SMAD2/3 and COX2 immunoreactivity might be of diagnostic utility in these tumors. Given the frequency of androgen receptor, estrogen receptor–β and COX2 co‐expression in desmoid tumors, further assessment of the efficacy of combination pharmacotherapy using hormonal agonists/antagonists together with COX2 inhibitors should be considered.
Hyperglycaemia is associated with impaired pulsatile insulin secretion: effect of basal insulin therapy
Authors: Meier J. J. , Pennartz C. , Schenker N. , Menge B. A. , Schmidt W. E. , Heise T. , Kapitza C. , Veldhuis J. D.
Published: October 2012

Aim

Postprandial insulin pulsatility is impaired in patients with type 2 diabetes, but the effects of exogenous insulin therapy on pulsatile insulin secretion are not known. We addressed, whether pulsatile insulin secretion is related to glycaemic control, whether basal insulin supplementation increases postprandial insulin secretion, and if so, is this accomplished by a specific improvement in pulsatile insulin secretion?

Methods

Fourteen patients with type 2 diabetes underwent a mixed meal test before and after an 8‐week treatment period with insulin glargine. Glucose, insulin and C‐peptide levels were measured, and insulin pulsatility was determined by deconvolution analysis.

Results

Insulin treatment lowered fasting glycaemia from 179.6 ± 7.5 mg/dl to 117.6 ± 6.5 mg/dl (p < 0.001). Postprandial insulin and C‐peptide levels increased significantly after the treatment period (p < 0.0001). The total calculated insulin secretion rate increased with insulin treatment (p = 0.0039), with non‐significant increases in both pulsatile and non‐pulsatile insulin secretion. Insulin pulse frequency was unchanged by the intervention. There was an inverse relationship between fasting and postprandial glycaemia and insulin pulse mass (r2 = 0.51 and 0.56, respectively), whereas non‐pulsatile insulin secretion was unrelated to either fasting or postprandial glucose concentrations (r2 = 0.0073 and 0.031).

Conclusions

Hyperglycaemia in type 2 diabetes is associated with a reduction in postprandial insulin secretion, specifically through a reduction in insulin pulsatility. Reducing chronic hyperglycaemia by basal insulin therapy enhances endogenous β‐cell function in the postprandial state. These data support the use of basal insulin regimens in the pharmacotherapy of overtly hyperglycaemic patients with type 2 diabetes.
Blocking glutamate‐mediated signalling inhibits human melanoma growth and migration
Authors: Song Zhiqi , He Chun‐Di , Liu Jing , Sun Changkai , Lu Ping , Li Lili , Gao Lili , Zhang Yi , Xu Yanni , Shan Lujuan , Liu Yuejian , Zou Wei , Zhang Yuan , Gao Haiqin , Gao Wenting
Published: October 2012

Glutamate is an excitatory neurotransmitter that has been shown to regulate the proliferation, migration and survival of neuronal progenitors in the central nervous system through its action on metabotropic and ionotropic glutamate receptors (GluRs). Antagonists of ionotropic GluRs have been shown to cause a rapid and reversible change in melanocyte dendritic morphology, which is associated with the disorganization of actin and tubulin microfilaments in the cytoskeleton. Intracellular expression of microtubule‐associated protein (MAP) 2a affects the assembly, stabilization and bundling of microtubules in melanoma cells; stimulates the development of dendrites; and suppresses melanoma cell migration and invasion. In this study, we investigated the relationship between glutamate‐mediated signalling and microtubules, cell dendritic morphology and melanoma cell motility. We found that metabotropic GluR1 and N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonists increased dendritic branching and inhibited the motility, migration and proliferation of melanoma cells. We also demonstrated that the invasion and motility of melanoma cells are significantly inhibited by the combination of increased expression of MAP2a and either metabotropic GluR1 or N‐methyl‐d‐aspartate receptor antagonists. Moreover, the blockade of glutamate receptors inhibited melanoma growth in vivo. Collectively, these results demonstrate the importance of glutamate signalling in human melanoma and suggest that the blockade of glutamate receptors is a promising novel therapy for treating melanoma.
Determinants of chymotrypsin C cleavage specificity in the calcium‐binding loop of human cationic trypsinogen
Authors: Szabó András , Sahin‐Tóth Miklós
Published: October 2012

The pancreatic serine protease chymotrypsin C (CTRC) cleaves the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond in the calcium‐binding loop of human cationic trypsinogen and thereby promotes its degradation. This serves as a protective mechanism against ectopic trypsinogen activation in the pancreas. In the present study, we demonstrate that cleavage of the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond by CTRC is highly specific, and other human pancreatic chymotrypsins (CTRB1, CTRB2 and CTRL1) and elastases (ELA2A, ELA3A and ELA3B) do not catalyze this reaction. To elucidate the mechanistic basis for CTRC specificity, we surveyed the primary (P1) cleavage preference of these pancreatic proteases on peptide substrates. We found that CTRC cleaved after a P1 Leu with at least tenfold higher catalytic efficiency than other enzymes tested. To assess extended sub‐site interactions, we introduced Ala mutations into human cationic trypsinogen at the P3, P1′ P3′ and P4′ amino acid positions, where P1–P1′ corresponds to Leu81–Glu82. Interestingly, CTRC‐mediated cleavage was stimulated threefold by mutation E82A and unaffected by mutations E79A and N84A, but all three mutations compromised specificity and resulted in increased cleavage by ELA2A. Mutation E85A decreased CTRC cleavage by twofold. Remarkably, other chymotrypsins and elastases did not cleave human cationic trypsinogen even with the L81F or L81A mutations, which introduced favorable P1 residues for these enzymes. We conclude that specific cleavage of the Leu81–Glu82 peptide bond in human cationic trypsinogen by CTRC is primarily determined by its distinctively high activity on leucyl peptide bonds, with the P1′ Glu82, P3′ Asn84 and P4′ Glu85 residues serving as additional specificity determinants.
Congenital hypothyroidism mutations affect common folding and trafficking in the α/β‐hydrolase fold proteins
Authors: De Jaco Antonella , Dubi Noga , Camp Shelley , Taylor Palmer
Published: October 2012

The α/β‐hydrolase fold superfamily of proteins is composed of structurally related members that, despite great diversity in their catalytic, recognition, adhesion and chaperone functions, share a common fold governed by homologous residues and conserved disulfide bridges. Non‐synonymous single nucleotide polymorphisms within the α/β‐hydrolase fold domain in various family members have been found for congenital endocrine, metabolic and nervous system disorders. By examining the amino acid sequence from the various proteins, mutations were found to be prevalent in conserved residues within the α/β‐hydrolase fold of the homologous proteins. This is the case for the thyroglobulin mutations linked to congenital hypothyroidism. To address whether correct folding of the common domain is required for protein export, we inserted the thyroglobulin mutations at homologous positions in two correlated but simpler α/β‐hydrolase fold proteins known to be exported to the cell surface: neuroligin3 and acetylcholinesterase. Here we show that these mutations in the cholinesterase homologous region alter the folding properties of the α/β‐hydrolase fold domain, which are reflected in defects in protein trafficking, folding and function, and ultimately result in retention of the partially processed proteins in the endoplasmic reticulum. Accordingly, mutations at conserved residues may be transferred amongst homologous proteins to produce common processing defects despite disparate functions, protein complexity and tissue‐specific expression of the homologous proteins. More importantly, a similar assembly of the α/β‐hydrolase fold domain tertiary structure among homologous members of the superfamily is required for correct trafficking of the proteins to their final destination.

Database

A listing and description of proteins in the α/β‐hydrolase fold family of proteins is available at http://bioweb.ensam.inra.fr/ESTHER/general?what=index
Impact of biochar field aging on laboratory greenhouse gas production potentials
Authors: Spokas Kurt A.
Published: October 2012

Recent observations of decreased greenhouse gas (GHG) production from biochar amended soils have been used to further substantiate the environmental benefit of biochar production and soil incorporation strategies. However, the mechanisms behind this biochar‐mediated response have not been fully elucidated. In addition, the duration of these GHG reductions is not known and is of pivotal importance for the inclusion of biochar into future bioenergy production and climate abatement strategies. In this study, the impacts of biochar field aging on the observed GHG production/consumption were evaluated. Two different wood‐derived biochars and a macadamia nut shell biochar were weathered in an agricultural field in Rosemount, MN (2008–2011) and the impacts on net soil GHG production/consumption were assessed through laboratory incubations. For the three biochars evaluated here, weathering negated the suppression of N2O production that was originally observed from the fresh biochar in laboratory incubations. On the other hand, all three weathered biochars enhanced CO2 production (three‐ to tenfold compared with the fresh biochar amendments) in laboratory soil incubations, suggesting an enhanced microbial mineralization rate of the weathered biochar. This enhanced mineralization could be aided by the chemical oxidation of the biochar surfaces during weathering. Fresh biochar reduced observed soil methane oxidation rates, whereas the weathered biochars had no significant impacts on the observed soil methanotrophic activity. This study demonstrates that for these three biochars, weathering greatly alters the GHG response of the soil systems to biochar amendments.
Nature of water‐biochar interface interactions
Authors: Conte Pellegrino , Marsala Valentina , De Pasquale Claudio , Bubici Salvatore , Valagussa Massimo , Pozzi Alessandro , Alonzo Giuseppe
Published: October 2012

A poplar biochar obtained by an industrial gasification process was saturated with water and analyzed using fast field cycling (FFC) NMR relaxometry in a temperature range between 299 and 353 K. Results revealed that the longitudinal relaxation rate increased with the increment of the temperature. This behavior was consistent with that already observed for paramagnetic inorganic porous media for which two different relaxation mechanisms can be accounted for: outer‐ and inner‐sphere mechanisms. The former is due to water diffusing from the closest approach distance to infinity, whereas the second is due to water interacting by nonconventional H‐bonds to the porous surface of the solid material. In particular, the inner‐sphere relaxation appeared to be predominant in the water‐saturated biochar used in the present study. This study represents a fundamental first step for the full comprehension of the role played by biochar in the draining properties of biochar‐amended soils.
The outcome is in the assumptions: analyzing the effects on atmospheric CO2 levels of increased use of bioenergy from forest biomass
Authors: Holtsmark Bjart
Published: October 2012

Recently, several studies have quantified the effects on atmospheric CO2 concentration of an increased harvest level in forests. Although these studies agreed in their estimates of forest productivity, their conclusions were contradictory. This study tested the effect of four assumptions by which those papers differed. These assumptions regard (1) whether a single or a set of repeated harvests were considered, (2) at what stage in stand growth harvest takes place, (3) how the baseline is constructed, and (4) whether a carbon‐cycle model is applied. A main finding was that current and future increase in the use of bioenergy should be studied considering a series of repeated harvests. Moreover, the time of harvest should be determined based on economical principles, thus taking place before stand growth culminates, which has implications for the design of the baseline scenario. When the most realistic assumptions are used and a carbon‐cycle model is applied, an increased harvest level in forests leads to a permanent increase in atmospheric CO2 concentration.
Role of Helicobacter pylori in common rosacea subtypes: A genotypic comparative study of Egyptian patients
Authors: El‐khalawany Mohamed , Mahmoud Ali , Mosbeh Al‐Sadat , Abd Alsalam Fatma , Ghonaim Noha , Abou‐bakr Amany
Published: October 2012

ABSTRACT

Helicobacter pylori was incriminated as an etiological factor of rosacea. However, there is still controversy about this association. We conducted a comparative study in order to assess the role of H. pylori in rosacea patients who had dyspeptic symptoms. The study included 68 patients and 54 controls. Screening for H. pylori was performed and positive cases were referred for gastric endoscopy. The inflammatory response and bacterial density were evaluated in gastric biopsy. H. pylori vacA alleles, cagA and iceA genotypes were assessed by polymerase chain reaction. We found that 49 rosacea (72%) and 25 controls (46.3%) were infected with H. pylori. Thirty‐one rosacea cases were papulopustular (PPR) while 18 were erythematotelangiectatic (ETR). Gastric ulceration was higher in PPR cases (38.7%) than ETR (11.1%) and controls (12%). A significant inflammatory reaction was observed more in PPR cases (74.2%) compared with 44.4% in ETR (P = 0.04) and 44% in controls (P = 0.02). Analysis of H. pylori genotypes revealed that vacA s1m1 was more identified in PPR cases (54.8%) compared with 22.2% in ETR (P = 0.03) and 16% in controls (P = 0.003). There was a significant elevation of cagA/vacA s1m1 positivity in PPR cases. After the eradication regimen of H. pylori, a significant improvement (P < 0.05) was observed in 15 out of 27 PPR cases (55.6%) compared with three out of 17 ETR (17.6%). We concluded that H. pylori has a significant role in rosacea patients who had dyspeptic symptoms. The PPR type is more influenced by H. pylori and this is regarded as being because of certain virulent strains that increase the inflammatory response in gastric mucosa and also in cutaneous lesions.
Plasma trough levels of adalimumab and infliximab in terms of clinical efficacy during the treatment of psoriasis
Authors: Takahashi Hidetoshi , Tsuji Hitomi , Ishida‐Yamamoto Akemi , Iizuka Hajime
Published: October 2012

We examined the relation between adalimumab and infliximab plasma trough levels, anti‐adalimumab and anti‐infliximab antibody formation. We analyzed plasma from 32 adalimumab‐treated and 20 infliximab‐treated psoriasis patients for evaluating trough levels of each drug. The presence of anti‐adalimumab and anti‐infliximab antibodies was analyzed and the severity of psoriasis was evaluated. At week 28, 25 out of 32 and at week 48, 21 out of 30 adalimumab‐treated patients maintained as more than PASI 75. At week 28, 12 out of 20 and at week 48, nine out of 18 infliximab‐treated patients were evaluated as more than PASI 75. In patients treated with 40 mg adalimumab every other week, the mean trough level was 7.62 μg/mL (range, 0.05–10.6) at week 48. In patients treated with 80 mg adalimumab every other week, the mean trough level was 8.61 μg/mL (range, 0.08–13.5) at week 48. Mean trough level of infliximab‐treated cases (4.1–5.2 mg/kg; mean, 4.6) was 4.64 μg/mL (range, 0.03–16.9) at week 48. Anti‐adalimumab antibody was detected in five out of 32 cases and anti‐infliximab antibody was detected in six out of 20 cases, respectively, at weeks 24 and 48. The optimal cut‐off values of adalimumab and infliximab concentration for more than PASI 75 were more than 7.84 μg/mL and more than 0.92 μg/mL, respectively. The trough levels of adalimumab and infliximab in psoriasis patients were positively associated with clinical response and were significantly lower in cases having anti‐adalimumab or anti‐infliximab antibodies.
Whewellite and its key role in living systems
Authors: Stephens W.E.
Published: October 2012

Whewellite is the dominant mineral in the plant kingdom, and one of the most important minerals within the surface veneer of our planet. It is intimately associated with the functioning of living systems and plays a significant role in the carbon cycle. The monohydrate form of calcium oxalate, whewellite, commonly occurs along with the less stable dihydrate form (weddellite). These minerals are not restricted to plants—humans may be painfully aware of whewellite as the principal mineral phase of urinary stones. Geologically whewellite is found in diagenetic settings, hydrothermal veins and in meteorites (carbonaceous chondrites), nevertheless the mineral is massively under‐represented in the geological column given its high productivity in the biosphere. Reasons for this are explored, and it is argued that a better understanding of the relationship between whewellite and host organisms will have benefits for agriculture, medicine, and potentially strategies for CO2 sequestration.
Population‐based threshold models describe weed germination and emergence patterns across varying temperature, moisture and oxygen conditions
Authors: Boddy Louis G. , Bradford Kent J. , Fischer Albert J.
Published: October 2012

Opportunities for diversifying the management of weedy populations may be enhanced through accurate predictions of seedling emergence, because the timing and success of control measures often hinges on the timing of weed emergence. We used population‐based threshold models to establish the temperature, moisture and oxygen conditions for optimum germination of herbicide‐resistant and ‐susceptible Echinochloa phyllopogon, a weed of temperate paddy rice, and applied them to predict emergence from field soil.

We combined hydrothermal time for germination, accounting for within‐population variation in base water potentials (Ψb), with thermal time for early seedling growth to predict the quantity and proportional size of the emergence flushes that constitute final recruitment.

Emergence in field soils was reduced by moisture stress and flooding, especially for the resistant population. In all populations, germination rates increased between 9·5 and 31 °C, Ψb was <−1·0 MPa, and there was no sensitivity to oxygen supply.

Synthesis and applications. Population‐based threshold models produced physiologically meaningful germination parameters, which are useful in defining the environmental constraints to germination, and predicting Echinochloa phyllopogon germination and emergence in field soils. By exploring the effects of temperature, water stress and flooding on germination and emergence, we predict irrigation regimes for optimising recruitment and the timing of weed control.
The observation of bleeding complications in haemato‐oncological patients: stringent watching, relevant reporting
Authors: Ypma P. F. , Kerkhoffs J.‐L. H. , van Hilten J. A. , Middelburg R. A. , Coccoris M. , Zwaginga J. J. , Beckers E. M. , Fijnheer R. , van der Meer P. F. , Brand A.
Published: October 2012

SUMMARY

Background

The reported percentage of haemato‐oncological patients experiencing bleeding complications is highly variable, ranging from 5 to 70%, posing a major problem for comparison of clinical platelet transfusion trials using bleeding complications as a primary endpoint. In a pilot study we assessed the impact of the design of scoring of bleeding on the percentage of patients with WHO grade 2 or higher bleeding grades.

Study design and methods

We performed a prospective, observational study using a rigorous bleeding observation system in thrombocytopenic patients with haemato‐oncological disorders. Endpoints of the study were the percentage of patients and days with bleeding WHO grade ≥ 2 comparing designs in which skin bleeding represent a continuation of a previous bleed or a new bleed.

Results

In four participating hospitals 64 patients suffering 870 evaluable thrombocytopenic days (platelet count < 80 × 109 L−1) were included. At least one episode of bleeding grade ≥ 2 occurred in 36 patients (56%). Most grade 2 bleeding complications occurred mucocutaneously. The percentage of days with bleeding of grade ≥ 2 was 16% but decreases to 8% when only newly developed skin bleeding was included.

Conclusion

Rigorous daily observation results in a bleeding incidence that is comparable to recent reportings applying the same method. The results of this study show that censoring for stable skin bleeding has a profound effect on bleeding incidence per day. The clinical relevance of rigorous or clinically judged bleeding scores as an endpoint remains to be defined.
Involvement of plasma membrane peroxidases and oxylipin pathway in the recovery from phytoplasma disease in apple (Malus domestica)
Authors: Patui Sonia , Bertolini Alberto , Clincon Luisa , Ermacora Paolo , Braidot Enrico , Vianello Angelo , Zancani Marco
Published: October 2012

Apple trees (Malus domestica Borkh.) may be affected by apple proliferation (AP), caused by ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma mali’. Some plants can spontaneously recover from the disease, which implies the disappearance of symptoms through a phenomenon known as recovery. In this article it is shown that NAD(P)H peroxidases of leaf plasma membrane‐enriched fractions exhibited a higher activity in samples from both AP‐diseased and recovered plants. In addition, an increase in endogenous SA was characteristic of the symptomatic plants, since its content increased in samples obtained from diseased apple trees. In agreement, phenylalanine ammonia lyase (PAL) activity, a key enzyme of the phenylpropanoid pathway, was increased too. Jasmonic acid (JA) increased only during recovery, in a phase subsequent to the pathological state, and in concomitance to a decline of salicylic acid (SA). Oxylipin pathway, responsible for JA synthesis, was not induced during the development of AP‐disease, but it appeared to be stimulated when the recovery occurred. Accordingly, lipoxygenase (LOX) activity, detected in plasma membrane‐enriched fractions, showed an increase in apple leaves obtained from recovered plants. This enhancement was paralleled by an increase of hydroperoxide lyase (HPL) activity, detected in leaf microsomes, albeit the latter enzyme was activated in either the disease or recovery conditions. Hence, a reciprocal antagonism between SA‐ and JA‐pathways could be suggested as an effective mechanism by which apple plants react to phytoplasma invasions, thereby providing a suitable defense response leading to the establishment of the recovery phenomenon.
Re‐mating across years and intralineage polygyny are associated with greater than expected levels of inbreeding in wild red deer
Authors: Stopher K. V. , Nussey D. H. , Clutton‐Brock T. H. , Guinness F. , Morris A. , Pemberton J. M.
Published: October 2012

The interaction between philopatry and nonrandom mating has important consequences for the genetic structure of populations, influencing co‐ancestry within social groups but also inbreeding. Here, using genetic paternity data, we describe mating patterns in a wild population of red deer (Cervus elaphus) which are associated with marked consequences for co‐ancestry and inbreeding in the population. Around a fifth of females mate with a male with whom they have mated previously, and further, females frequently mate with a male with whom a female relative has also mated (intralineage polygyny). Both of these phenomena occur more than expected under random mating. Using simulations, we demonstrate that temporal and spatial factors, as well as skew in male breeding success, are important in promoting both re‐mating behaviours and intralineage polygyny. However, the information modelled was not sufficient to explain the extent to which these behaviours occurred. We show that re‐mating and intralineage polygyny are associated with increased pairwise relatedness in the population and a rise in average inbreeding coefficients. In particular, the latter resulted from a correlation between male relatedness and rutting location, with related males being more likely to rut in proximity to one another. These patterns, alongside their consequences for the genetic structure of the population, have rarely been documented in wild polygynous mammals, yet they have important implications for our understanding of genetic structure, inbreeding avoidance and dispersal in such systems.
Molecular phylogeny and timing of radiation in Lessonia (Phaeophyceae, Laminariales)
Authors: Martin Peter , Zuccarello Giuseppe C.
Published: October 2012

The genus Lessonia Bory de Saint‐Vincent is distributed solely in the Southern Hemisphere, with four species found in South America and five in Australasia. Our goal was to determine the evolutionary relationships between the Lessonia species of the two disjunct areas and hypothesize dispersal patterns and timing of radiation. We combined mitochondria, plastid and nuclear markers in a comprehensive dataset from multiple individuals per known species. Furthermore, for some species we added samples from multiple populations to take account of their widespread distribution over known bioregions. In all analyses the Australasian Lessonia formed a monophyletic group and in most analyses the South American species form a paraphyletic grade. Delimitations of the accepted species are highly supported except for L. variegata J. Agardh and L. nigrescens Bory de Saint‐Vincent. We showed for the first time four lineages for the New Zealand endemic Lessonia variegata with an unexpected high level of genetic differentiation. Our analysis cannot resolve whether the dispersal of the common ancestor of this genus was from the Americas to Australasia or vice versa. Molecular clock analysis suggested that a sudden radiation took place in Australasia c. 3.5 Mya when almost all Australasian species diverged within a time frame of only 35 000 years.
Safe and correct use of peripheral intravenous devices
Authors: Dorniak‐Wall Taisa , Rudaks Laura , Solanki Nicholas S. , Greenwood John
Published: October 2012

Background

A peripheral intravenous device (PIVD) provides venous access for the administration of medications, blood products and fluids. They can be associated with a risk of infection and other complications, which have prompted the development of evidence‐based guidelines for their use at the Royal Adelaide Hospital (RAH). A previous audit performed at the RAH found unsatisfactory compliance with these guidelines across a group of wards. The Burns Unit performed poorly compared with other wards, but the reasons for this were not explored.

Methods

A repeat audit was performed for all PIVDs in the Burns Unit over a 3‐week period and compliance with the PIVD safety guidelines was assessed. Factors influencing compliance were investigated and the evidence behind the guidelines was reviewed.

Results

Overall compliance with the seven safety criteria was 71%. Poorest compliance was for documentation of insertion date, which has implications for scheduling PIVD replacement.

Conclusion

The guidelines are largely evidence‐based; however, not all of them are feasible for all patients within a hospital. The Burns Unit had an overall compliance rate of 71%. Auditing of individual wards is not effective in assessing those wards' compliance with the guidelines as many PIVDs are inserted in other locations in the hospital. For compliance to improve, other areas of the hospital where PIVDs are inserted need to be targeted.
Coronary computed tomography angiography: a new wave of cardiac imaging
Authors: Soon K. , Wong C.
Published: October 2012

Coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA) is becoming a popular non‐invasive imaging modality for coronary arteries. It has high sensitivity and specificity in the evaluation of coronary artery disease (CAD). Due to its high negative predictive value, the main clinical role of coronary CTA is in the exclusion of significant CAD in the low to intermediate pretest probability patients. In the emergency department, coronary CTA helps to fast‐track the triage of acute chest pain patients. One of the major coronary CTA's limitations is its false positive findings in the presence of heavily calcified lesions. With the advance of CT technology, the radiation dose of coronary CTA has been reduced significantly. At present, coronary CTA is still not indicated for screening asymptomatic patients.
The Extended Mind Rehabilitates The Metaphysical Hegel
Authors: Fritzman J. M. , Parvizian Kristin
Published: October 2012

The nonmetaphysical interpretation of Hegel's philosophy asserts that the metaphysical reading is not credible and so his philosophy must be rationally reconstructed so as to elide its metaphysical aspects. This article shows that the thesis of the extended mind approaches the metaphysical reading, thereby undermining denials of its credibility and providing the resources to articulate and defend the metaphysical reading of Hegel's philosophy. This fully rehabilitates the metaphysical Hegel. The article does not argue for the truth of the metaphysical Hegel's claims. Rather, it defends the correctness of reading his philosophy as metaphysical.
Critical Thinking is Epistemically Responsible
Authors: Ritola Juho
Published: October 2012

Michael Huemer () argues that following the epistemic strategy of Critical Thinking—that is, thinking things through for oneself—leaves the agent epistemically either worse off or no better off than an alternative strategy of Credulity—that is, trusting the authorities. Therefore, Critical Thinking is not epistemically responsible. This article argues that Reasonable Credulity entails Critical Thinking, and since Reasonable Credulity is epistemically responsible, the Critical Thinking that it entails is epistemically responsible too.
Social enterprise policy design: Constructing social enterprise in the UK and Korea
Authors: Park Chisung , Wilding Mark
Published: October 2012

Taking the elusive definition of social enterprise as its starting point, this study seeks to understand the impact of government policies on the development of social enterprises in the national contexts of the UK and South Korea. The social construction of target populations is utilised as a theoretical framework in order to identify which factors influence government policy. A comparison of the two countries over a 14‐year period from 1997 to 2010 reveals that, despite very different contexts, governments in both countries have taken an instrumental approach to social enterprise. This tendency is more pronounced in Korea however, where government has limited the input of stakeholders and used an approval system to control access to the social enterprise name. The study concludes by recommending a more value‐oriented approach to social enterprise.
Estimating Market Power by Retailers in a Dynamic Framework: the Italian PDO Cheese Market
Authors: Sckokai Paolo , Soregaroli Claudio , Moro Daniele
Published: October 2012

In this article, we evaluate the role of market power by retailers within the supply chain of Parmigiano Reggiano (PR) and Grana Padano (GP), the two most famous Italian quality cheeses. Market power is analysed in the context of a dynamic imperfect competition model of the supply chain, in which retailers are allowed to exert market power both downstream and upstream. We jointly estimate market‐power parameters together with supply and demand elasticities, by means of a structural system of demand, supply and price‐transmission equations, estimated using the generalised method of moments. We find evidence of downstream market power by retailers (toward final consumers) for PR and GP, but no evidence of upstream market power (toward processors/ripeners). These results may be explained by the structure of the supply chain and by the peculiar characteristics of the two cheeses.
A European Union and Canadian Review of Public Health Nursing Preparation and Practice
Authors: Hemingway Ann , Aarts Clara , Koskinen Liisa , Campbell Barbara , Chassé France
Published: October 2012

Objective

This study explores the preparation and role of the public health nurse (PHN) across European Union (EU) countries (Finland, Sweden, and the United Kingdom) and Canadian provinces (Alberta, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island).

Methods

A literature review including relevant peer reviewed articles from 2000 on, in conjunction, with critical debate was undertaken. The results were considered in relation to the three essential areas of PHN practice, outlined in the World Health Organization (Moving on from Munich: A reference guide to the implementation of the declaration on nurses and midwives: A force for health, 2001b) recommendations, family oriented care, public health action, and policy making.

Results

The major challenge the review revealed across a variety of international education and practice environments was the lack of consistent preparation for and engagement with leadership and policy making in practice.
Patch testing with 2.0% (0.60 mg/cm2) formaldehyde instead of 1.0% (0.30 mg/cm2) detects significantly more contact allergy
Authors: Pontén Ann , Aalto‐Korte Kristiina , Agner Tove , Andersen Klaus E. , Giménez‐Arnau Ana M. , Gonçalo Margarida , Goossens An , Johansen Jeanne D. , Le Coz Christophe J. , Maibach Howard I. , Rustemeyer Thomas , White Ian R. , Bruze Magnus
Published: October 2012

Background.The currently used patch test concentration for formaldehyde is 1.0% (wt/vol) in water. However, clinical experience and previous studies suggest that 1.0% might be insufficient for detecting an optimized number of clinically relevant cases of contact allergy to formaldehyde.

Objectives.To validate earlier patch test results for comparison of 1% (wt/vol) and 2% (wt/vol) formaldehyde in water, and to investigate co‐reactivity with quaternium‐15.

Materials and methods.In 12 dermatology clinics, 3591 patients were routinely patch tested simultaneously with 2.0% (wt/vol) (0.60 mg/cm2) and 1.0% (wt/vol) (0.30 mg/cm2) formaldehyde. Micropipettes were used for delivering the exact dosage of the allergen.

Results.Significantly more patients reacted to 2.0% formaldehyde than to 1.0% (3.4% versus 1.8%, p < 0.001). Overall, there were no sex differences between those reacting positively to 2.0% and 1.0%. Of 25 quaternium‐15‐positive patients, 4 (0.1%) reacted positively without reacting to formaldehyde.

Conclusion.On the basis of the results of this multicentre study, as well as of previous studies, it can be suggested that 2.0% (wt/vol) in water formaldehyde should be used in routine patch testing in the baseline series.
Contribution of the Sensorial Evaluation of Velvet Fabric in Cosmetic Emulsions to the Sensorial Universe
Authors: Pensé‐Lhéritier Anne‐Marie , Koehl Ludovic , Lavarde Marc , Gagnaire Sonia , Vie Katell
Published: October 2012

By associating materials of another universe with the product of yet another universe, cosmetic marketing teams wish to bring even more emotions and reinforce the interpretation of a sense by conveying the sensorial properties of a product with sensorial images contained in other product universes. This study aimed at characterizing sensorial descriptors of velvet fabrics so as to identify the descriptors relevant to cosmetic emulsions. A panel of 10 judges, expert in cosmetics, was therefore trained and qualified on velvet fabrics.

At the end of this study, the panelists were efficient on a structured scale, in which each descriptor was associated to a reference fabric. The product profiles of cosmetic emulsions were carried out around the velvet universe, thus demonstrating that most of the sensations expressed in a cosmetic product could be explained through the characteristics of velvets.

Practical Applications

The descriptors issued from the reference fabrics were relevant in distinguishing two cosmetic emulsions, thus suggesting that they could be used in the evaluation of other products. The results of this study could be used to define the technical specifications in the functional specifications of the new products being developed.
Studying the Flow Dynamics of a Karst Aquifer System with an Equivalent Porous Medium Model
Authors: Abusaada Muath , Sauter Martin
Published: October 2012

The modeling of groundwater flow in karst aquifers is a challenge due to the extreme heterogeneity of its hydraulic parameters and the duality in their discharge behavior, that is, rapid response of highly conductive karst conduits and delayed drainage of the low‐permeability fractured matrix after recharge events. There are a number of different modeling approaches for the simulation of the karst groundwater dynamics, applicable to different aquifer as well as modeling problem types, ranging from continuum models to double continuum models to discrete and hybrid models. This study presents the application of an equivalent porous model approach (EPM, single continuum model) to construct a steady‐state numerical flow model for an important karst aquifer, that is, the Western Mountain Aquifer Basin (WMAB), shared by Israel and the West‐Bank, using MODFLOW2000. The WMAB was used as a catchment since it is a well‐constrained catchment with well‐defined recharge and discharge components and therefore allows a control on the modeling approach, a very rare opportunity for karst aquifer modeling. The model demonstrates the applicability of equivalent porous medium models for the simulation of karst systems, despite their large contrast in hydraulic conductivities. As long as the simulated saturated volume is large enough to average out the local influence of karst conduits and as long as transport velocities are not an issue, EPM models excellently simulate the observed head distribution. The model serves as a starting basis that will be used as a reference for developing a long‐term dynamic model for the WMAB, starting from the pre‐development period (i.e., 1940s) up to date.