bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial flavin-containing monooxygenase is trimethylamine monooxygenase
Authors: Chen Yin , Patel Nisha A. , Crombie Andrew , Scrivens James H. , Murrell J. Colin
Published: October 2011

Flavin-containing monooxygenases (FMOs) are one of the most important monooxygenase systems in Eukaryotes and have many important physiological functions. FMOs have also been found in bacteria; however, their physiological function is not known. Here, we report the identification and characterization of trimethylamine (TMA) monooxygenase, termed Tmm, from
Methylocella silvestris
, using a combination of proteomic, biochemical, and genetic approaches. This bacterial FMO contains the FMO sequence motif (FXGXXXHXXXF/Y) and typical flavin adenine dinucleotide and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate-binding domains. The enzyme was highly expressed in TMA-grown
M. silvestris
and absent during growth on methanol. The gene,
tmm
, was expressed in
Escherichia coli
, and the purified recombinant protein had high Tmm activity. Mutagenesis of this gene abolished the ability of
M. silvestris
to grow on TMA as a sole carbon and energy source. Close homologs of
tmm
occur in many
Alphaproteobacteria
, in particular
Rhodobacteraceae
(marine
Roseobacter
clade, MRC) and the marine SAR11 clade (
Pelagibacter ubique
). We show that the ability of MRC to use TMA as a sole carbon and/or nitrogen source is directly linked to the presence of
tmm
in the genomes, and purified Tmm of MRC and SAR11 from recombinant
E. coli
showed Tmm activities. The
tmm
gene is highly abundant in the metagenomes of the Global Ocean Sampling expedition, and we estimate that 20% of the bacteria in the surface ocean contain
tmm
. Taken together, our results suggest that Tmm, a bacterial FMO, plays an important yet overlooked role in the global carbon and nitrogen cycles.
Transcriptional and functional analysis of galactooligosaccharide uptake bylacSinLactobacillus acidophilus
Authors: Andersen Joakim M. , Barrangou Rodolphe , Abou Hachem Maher , Lahtinen Sampo , Goh Yong Jun , Svensson Birte , Klaenhammer Todd R.
Published: October 2011

Probiotic microbes rely on their ability to survive in the gastrointestinal tract, adhere to mucosal surfaces, and metabolize available energy sources from dietary compounds, including prebiotics. Genome sequencing projects have proposed models for understanding prebiotic catabolism, but mechanisms remain to be elucidated for many prebiotic substrates. Although β-galactooligosaccharides (GOS) are documented prebiotic compounds, little is known about their utilization by lactobacilli. This study aimed to identify genetic loci inLactobacillus acidophilusNCFM responsible for the transport and catabolism of GOS. Whole-genome oligonucleotide microarrays were used to survey the differential global transcriptome during logarithmic growth ofL. acidophilusNCFM using GOS or glucose as a sole source of carbohydrate. Within the 16.6-kbpgal-lacgene cluster,lacS, a galactoside-pentose-hexuronide permease-encoding gene, was up-regulated 5.1-fold in the presence of GOS. In addition, two β-galactosidases, LacA and LacLM, and enzymes in the Leloir pathway were also encoded by genes within this locus and up-regulated by GOS stimulation. Generation of alacS-deficient mutant enabled phenotypic confirmation of the functional LacS permease not only for the utilization of lactose and GOS but also lactitol, suggesting a prominent role of LacS in the metabolism of a broad range of prebiotic β-galactosides, known to selectively modulate the beneficial gut microbiota.
Effects of bisphenol A and triclocarban on brain-specific expression of aromatase in early zebrafish embryos
Authors: Chung Eunah , Genco Maria C. , Megrelis Laura , Ruderman Joan V.
Published: October 2011

Estrogen regulates numerous developmental and physiological processes. Most effects are mediated by estrogen receptors (ERs), which function as ligand-regulated transcription factors. Estrogen also regulates the activity of GPR30, a membrane-associated G protein-coupled receptor. Many different types of environmental contaminants can activate ERs; some can bind GPR30 as well. There is growing concern that exposure to some of these compounds, termed xenoestrogens, is interfering with the behavior and reproductive potential of numerous wildlife species, as well as affecting human health. Here, we investigated how two common, environmentally pervasive chemicals affect the in vivo expression of a known estrogen target gene in the brain of developing zebrafish embryos, aromatase AroB, which converts androgens to estrogens. We confirm that, like estrogen, the well-studied xenoestrogen bisphenol A (BPA, a plastics monomer), induces strong brain-specific overexpression of aromatase. Experiments using ER- and GPR30-selective modulators argue that this induction is largely through nuclear ERs. BPA induces dramatic overexpression of AroB RNA in the same subregions of the developing brain as estrogen. The antibacterial triclocarban (TCC) by itself stimulates AroB expression only slightly, but TCC strongly enhances the overexpression of AroB that is induced by exogenous estrogen. Thus, both BPA and TCC have the potential to elevate levels of aromatase and, thereby, levels of endogenous estrogens in the developing brain. In contrast to estrogen, BPA-induced AroB overexpression was suppressed by TCC. These results indicate that exposures to combinations of certain hormonally active pollutants can have outcomes that are not easily predicted from their individual effects.
Resistance to Alternaria solani in Hybrids Between a Solanum tuberosum Haploid and S. raphanifolium
Authors: Weber B. N. , Jansky S. H.
Published: October 2011

Early blight of potato (Solanum tuberosum), caused by the foliar fungal pathogen Alternaria solani, is a major cause of economic loss in many potato-growing regions. Genetic resistance offers an opportunity to decrease fungicide usage while maintaining yield and quality. In this study, an early blight resistant clone of the diploid wild species S. raphanifolium was crossed as a male to a haploid (2n=2x) of cultivated potato. Hybrids were backcrossed to both parents. Eight families were created and evaluated for early blight resistance in the field. Families created by backcrossing to the wild species parent exhibited significantly lower relative area under the disease progress curve means than those from backcrossing to the cultivated parent, leading to the conclusion that S. raphanifolium contributes genes for early blight resistance. The mechanism of resistance in S. raphanifolium is unique because A. solani could not be recovered from lesions. Clones were identified with high levels of resistance and adaptation to the photoperiod of a temperate production region.
Constipation and Nonspecific Abdominal Pain in Teenage Girls Referred for Emergency Surgical Consultation
Authors: Buddingh K. Tim , Wieselmann Eva , Heineman Erik , Broens Paul M.A.
Published: October 2011

Objective:

The aim of this study was to describe the discharge diagnoses of children receiving surgical consultation for acute abdominal pain according to age and sex.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review.

Results:

Nine hundred forty‐one children were included. Appendicitis was confirmed in 31% of young boys (<12 years), 42% of teenage boys (≥12 years), 38% of young girls, and only 18% of teenage girls. A large number of teenage girls were diagnosed as having constipation and nonspecific abdominal pain. Gynecological diagnoses were relatively rare (9% of teenage girls). Teenage girls often required multiple visits to the emergency department. In addition, they frequently received consultation from other medical specialists: 30% versus 20% of young girls and 12% of boys. Teenage girls had the highest rate of (retrospectively) unnecessary surgery: 36% versus 10% of young girls (P < 0.01) and 11% of boys (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

Most children receiving surgical consultation for acute abdominal pain do not have diseases requiring surgery. In teenage girls, especially, the proportion with appendicitis is low. Constipation and nonspecific abdominal pain are the main discharge diagnoses in this group. Physicians should have a high index of suspicion of constipation when examining teenage girls with acute abdominal pain.
Combined high-resolution genotyping and geospatial analysis reveals modes of endemic urban typhoid fever transmission
Authors: Baker Stephen , Holt Kathryn E. , Clements Archie C. A. , Karkey Abhilasha , Arjyal Amit , Boni Maciej F. , Dongol Sabina , Hammond Naomi , Koirala Samir , Duy Pham Thanh , Nga Tran Vu Thieu , Campbell James I. , Dolecek Christiane , Basnyat Buddha , Dougan Gordon , Farrar Jeremy J.
Published: October 2011

Typhoid is a systemic infection caused by
Salmonella
Typhi and
Salmonella
Paratyphi A, human-restricted bacteria that are transmitted faeco-orally.
Salmonella
Typhi and
S
. Paratyphi A are clonal, and their limited genetic diversity has precluded the identification of long-term transmission networks in areas with a high disease burden. To improve our understanding of typhoid transmission we have taken a novel approach, performing a longitudinal spatial case–control study for typhoid in Nepal, combining single-nucleotide polymorphism genotyping and case localization via global positioning. We show extensive clustering of typhoid occurring independent of population size and density. For the first time, we demonstrate an extensive range of genotypes existing within typhoid clusters, and even within individual households, including some resulting from clonal expansion. Furthermore, although the data provide evidence for direct human-to-human transmission, we demonstrate an overwhelming contribution of indirect transmission, potentially via contaminated water. Consistent with this, we detected
S
. Typhi and
S
. Paratyphi A in water supplies and found that typhoid was spatially associated with public water sources and low elevation. These findings have implications for typhoid-control strategies, and our innovative approach may be applied to other diseases caused by other monophyletic or emerging pathogens.
AMPA receptor endocytosis in rat perirhinal cortex underlies retrieval of object memory
Authors: Cazakoff Brittany N. , Howland John G.
Published: October 2011

Mechanisms consistent with long-term depression in the perirhinal cortex (PRh) play a fundamental role in object recognition memory; however, whether AMPA receptor endocytosis is involved in distinct phases of recognition memory is not known. To address this question, we used local PRh infusions of the cell membrane-permeable Tat-GluA23Y interference peptide or a scrambled control to block the endocytosis of AMPA receptors during the encoding, consolidation, or retrieval phase of object recognition memory. Tat-GluA23Y infusion before the encoding and consolidation phases did not alter recognition memory. In contrast, Tat-GluA23Y infusion prior to the retrieval phase disrupted object recognition memory. The present results indicate a distinct role for AMPA receptor endocytosis in the retrieval of visual recognition memory.
Apoplastic Reactive Oxygen Species Transiently Decrease Auxin Signaling and Cause Stress-Induced Morphogenic Response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Blomster Tiina , Salojärvi Jarkko , Sipari Nina , Brosché Mikael , Ahlfors Reetta , Keinänen Markku , Overmyer Kirk , Kangasjärvi Jaakko
Published: October 2011

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are ubiquitous signaling molecules in plant stress and development. To gain further insight into the plant transcriptional response to apoplastic ROS, the phytotoxic atmospheric pollutant ozone was used as a model ROS inducer in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) and gene expression was analyzed with microarrays. In contrast to the increase in signaling via the stress hormones salicylic acid, abscisic acid, jasmonic acid (JA), and ethylene, ROS treatment caused auxin signaling to be transiently suppressed, which was confirmed with a DR5-uidA auxin reporter construct. Transcriptomic data revealed that various aspects of auxin homeostasis and signaling were modified by apoplastic ROS. Furthermore, a detailed analysis of auxin signaling showed that transcripts of several auxin receptors and Auxin/Indole-3-Acetic Acid (Aux/IAA) transcriptional repressors were reduced in response to apoplastic ROS. The ROS-derived changes in the expression of auxin signaling genes partially overlapped with abiotic stress, pathogen responses, and salicylic acid signaling. Several mechanisms known to suppress auxin signaling during biotic stress were excluded, indicating that ROS regulated auxin responses via a novel mechanism. Using mutants defective in various auxin (axr1, nit1, aux1, tir1 afb2, iaa28-1, iaa28-2) and JA (axr1, coi1-16) responses, ROS-induced cell death was found to be regulated by JA but not by auxin. Chronic ROS treatment resulted in altered leaf morphology, a stress response known as “stress-induced morphogenic response.” Altered leaf shape of tir1 afb2 suggests that auxin was a negative regulator of stress-induced morphogenic response in the rosette.
Constructing Childhood: Discourses About School Violence in the Greek Daily Press
Authors: Avgitidou Sofia , Stamou Anastasia G
Published: October 2011

This study explores the construction of discourses about childhood in the Greek daily press. It employs the theoretical frameworks of the new sociology of childhood and critical discourse analysis to question which discourses of childhood are constructed in the daily press presenting cases where children were the victimisers in school violent episodes. The study showed that while there are distinct discourses constructed in the texts such as the romantic childhood, the minority group childhood, the homogeneous childhood and the childhood as actor, these tend to co‐exist textually. Results are critically discussed in relation to the positioning of children through everyday practices such as the daily press.
Effects of forest fragmentation on pollination of Mesogyne insignis (Moraceae) in Amani Nature Reserve forests, Tanzania
Authors: Olotu Moses I. , Ndangalasi Henry J. , Nyundo Bruno A.
Published: October 2011

The efficacy of pollination biology of Mesogyne insignis is poorly known in fragmented forests of Amani Nature Reserve. This study was conducted to determine the effect of forest fragmentation on potential pollinators of this endangered species. Three intact forests and three forest fragments were selected for this study, the intact forests serving as control. Visual observation of insects visiting inflorescences, insect trapping and pollinator exclusion experiments were the methods employed in assessing pollination. Most members of the solitary bee genus Megachile were found to be potential pollinators of M. insignis. Diversity of pollinators was significantly higher in intact forests than in forest fragments. Overall, the total number of fruits set was significantly higher in intact forests than in forest fragments, perhaps a reflection of the higher diversity and abundance of potential pollinators in an intact forest. The pollination system of M. insignis is generalist in terms of systematic group of pollinators, and forest fragmentation may have significant impact on this pollination pattern. A similar study should be conducted in other Eastern Arc Mountains where M. insignis grows to find out whether the potential pollinators are similar or not.
Pulse pressure amplification in relation to body fatness
Authors: Wykretowicz Andrzej , Rutkowska Agnieszka , Krauze Tomasz , Przymuszala Dagmara , Guzik Przemyslaw , Marciniak Ryszard , Wysocki Henryk
Published: October 2011

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Aortic‐brachial pulse pressure amplification (PPA) is a measure of arterial elasticity and it is also an independent cardiovascular risk factor. The PPA is mainly determined by age, height, central and peripheral pressure waveforms characteristics, including measures of arterial stiffness and wave reflection.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• In this study, however, we demonstrate that PPA is also significantly associated with indirect indices of body fatness. As the body fatness is treatable, our findings might be used as a reference for future studies on the effects of body fat reduction on PPA and the PPA‐related cardiovascular risk.

AIMS Arterial pressure transfer to the periphery is accompanied by pulse pressure amplification (PPA). Pulse pressure is influence by body fat. The purpose of the present study was to evaluate any possible inter‐relation between body fatness and PPA in healthy subjects.

METHODS Haemodynamic and wave reflection indices were estimated by pulse wave analysis. Body fat was measured by bio‐impedance.

RESULTS A total of 367 healthy volunteers (136 men and 231 women) was studied. Pulse pressure amplification correlated significantly with percentage of body fat (r=−0.53, P < 0.0001), age (r=−0.62, P < 0.0001), height (r= 0.43, P < 0.0001), heart rate (r= 0.28, P < 0.0001) and mean blood pressure (r=−0.29, P < 0.0001). The association of PPA with body fat was also significant in a multiple linear regression model. Age was an independent predictor of PPA and analysis of study subjects subdivided into two groups, those <50 years and those >50 years showed that body fatness correlated inversely and significantly with PPA in individuals both younger and older than 50 years (r=−0.44, P < 0.0001, r=−0.37, P < 0.0001 respectively). Augmentation pressure was also associated significantly with percentage of body fat in both subgroups (r= 0.48, P < 0.0001 and r= 0.49, P < 0.0001 respectively).

CONCLUSIONS This study performed on healthy subjects showed that pulse pressure amplification is related to body fatness over a wide age range. Percentage body fat is significantly associated with augmentation pressure, a component of central pulse pressure.
Models of transitional care for young people with complex health needs: a scoping review
Authors: Watson R. , Parr J. R. , Joyce C. , May C. , Le Couteur A. S.
Published: October 2011

Background  Young people with complex healthcare needs (CHNs) face the challenge of transferring from child to adult health services. This study sought to identify successful models of transitional care for young people with CHNs. Three conditions were used as exemplars: cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders and diabetes.

Methods  Scoping review: using search terms concerning transitional care, four databases were systematically searched for papers published in English between 1980 and April 2010. Additional informal search methods included recommendations from colleagues working with young people with each of the three conditions and making contact with clinical and research teams with expertise in transitional care. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to define the papers selected for review. A separate review of policy documents, adolescent health and transition literature was also undertaken; 10 common summary categories for the components of high‐quality services were identified. All papers were coded using a framework analysis which evaluated the data in two ways using the 10 transition categories and four elements of Normalization Process Theory that are important for successful implementation and integration of healthcare interventions.

Results  Nineteen papers were selected for review. A very limited literature of models of service provision was identified for young people with cerebral palsy and diabetes. No models were identified for young people with autism spectrum disorders. Furthermore most publications were either descriptions of new service provision or time‐limited pilot studies with little service evaluation or consideration of key elements of effective implementation.

Conclusions  Despite agreement about the importance of effective transitional care, there is a paucity of evidence to inform best practice about both the process of and what constitutes effective transitional care. There is therefore an urgent need for research to evaluate current transitional care practices for young people with CHNs.
Transition in young adults with spina bifida: a qualitative study
Authors: Ridosh M. , Braun P. , Roux G. , Bellin M. , Sawin K.
Published: October 2011

Background  Adolescents and young adults with spina bifida are an at‐risk population because of the complexity of their condition, developmental stage and social challenges. The purpose of this qualitative study was to examine the transition to adulthood in young adults with spina bifida and to explore condition‐related needs and life skills required during the transition process.

Methods  This qualitative study using narrative inquiry was part of a larger multi‐site study of adaptation in young adults with spina bifida. Interviews were completed with 10 participants ranging in age from 18 to 25 years. The guided interview questions focused on specific dimensions of the transition experience related to the ecological model: self‐management, independence and inner strength.

Results  Three themes capturing different dimensions of the young adults' transition experiences emerged in the analysis. The themes included: (1) Struggling for independence, (2) Limiting social interactions and experiences with stigma, and (3) Building inner strength.

Conclusion  The qualitative study contributes to a better understanding of the challenges of transition to achieve self‐management and social development for young adults with spina bifida. Findings in the life stories highlighted issues that necessitate increased advocacy and interventions from professionals within the health and social system.
Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization analysis for melanoma diagnosis
Authors: Senetta Rebecca , Paglierani Milena , Massi Daniela
Published: October 2011

Senetta R, Paglierani M & Massi D  (2012) Histopathology 60, 706–714

Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization analysis for melanoma diagnosis

Melanocytic proliferation constitutes a heterogeneous group of lesions with remarkable differences in their biology and clinical outcome. Thus, accurate histological diagnosis of these cases is mandatory to establish the most appropriate surgical treatment and follow‐up. Although histological examination alone is usually sufficient to identify melanomas among the greater number of nevi, the definition of the benign or malignant nature of a subset of melanocytic tumours, exhibiting atypical features, is a challenging task. Novel techniques that may assist in the histopathological diagnosis in difficult cases have been extensively researched over recent years. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH), performed with a panel of four probes, including three locus‐specific identifier (RREB1, MYB, and CCND1) genes, seems to represent a sensitive and specific molecular tool for the diagnosis of non‐ambiguous melanocytic lesions. Some studies have agreed that FISH may be an ancillary diagnostic instrument, but cannot replace light microscopy, to distinguish benign nevi from malignant melanomas in daily practice. However, in the context of ambiguous melanocytic tumours, results are still controversial, and additional and substantial work is needed to develop reliable probes that may identify, with high sensitivity, specific subsets of ambiguous melanocytic lesions, including spitzoid proliferation.
Explosive Pleistocene range expansion leads to widespread Amazonian sympatry between robust and gracile capuchin monkeys
Authors: Lynch Alfaro Jessica W. , Boubli Jean P. , Olson Link E. , Di Fiore Anthony , Wilson Bryan , Gutiérrez‐Espeleta Gustavo A. , Chiou Kenneth L. , Schulte Meredith , Neitzel Sarah , Ross Vanessa , Schwochow Doreen , Nguyen Mai T.T. , Farias Izeni , Janson Charles H. , Alfaro Michael E.
Published: October 2011

Aim Capuchin monkey species are widely distributed across Central and South America. Morphological studies consistently divide the clade into robust and gracile forms, which show extensive sympatry in the Amazon Basin. We use genetic data to test whether Miocene or Plio‐Pleistocene processes may explain capuchin species’ present distributions, and consider three possible scenarios to explain widespread sympatry.

Location The Neotropics, including the Amazon and Atlantic Coastal Forest.

Methods We sequenced the 12S ribosomal RNA and cytochromebgenes from capuchin monkey specimens. The majority were sampled from US museum collections and were wild‐caught individuals of known provenance across their distribution. We applied a Bayesian discrete‐states diffusion model, which reconstructed the most probable history of invasion across nine subregions. We used comparative methods to test for phylogeographic association and dispersal rate variation.

Results Capuchins contained two well supported monophyletic clades, the morphologically distinct ‘gracile’ and ‘robust’ groups. The time‐tree analysis estimated a late Miocene divergence betweenCebusandSapajusand a subsequent Plio‐Pleistocene diversification within each of the two clades. Bayesian analysis of phylogeographic diffusion history indicated that the current wide‐ranging sympatry ofCebusandSapajusacross much of the Amazon Basin was the result of a single explosive late Pleistocene invasion ofSapajusfrom the Atlantic Forest into the Amazon, whereSapajusis now sympatric with gracile capuchins across much of their range.

Main conclusions The biogeographic history of capuchins suggests late Miocene geographic isolation of the gracile and robust forms. Each form diversified independently, but during the Pleistocene, the robustSapajusexpanded its range from the Atlantic Forest to the Amazon, where it has now encroached substantially upon what was previously the exclusive range of gracileCebus. The genusCebus, as currently recognized, should be split into two genera to reflect the Miocene divergence and two subsequent independent Pliocene radiations:Cebusfrom the Amazon andSapajusfrom the Atlantic Forest.
Nursing and medical students’ attitude, knowledge and beliefs regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health care for their children
Authors: Chapman Rose , Watkins Rochelle , Zappia Tess , Nicol Pam , Shields Linda
Published: October 2011

Background.  Little research has been conducted to investigate students’ attitudes, knowledge and beliefs regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents seeking health care for their children.

Design.  Descriptive, comparative study. Validated scales were used to assess students’ attitudes, knowledge and beliefs and gay affirmative practice. Three open ended questions assessed beliefs regarding lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents accessing health care for their children.

Method.  Nursing and medical students completed questionnaires about attitudes to homosexuality. Associations between variables were assessed using chi‐square tests of independence, and differences between nursing and medical student groups were assessed using the Mann–Whitney U‐test or the Kruskal–Wallis one‐way analysis of variance test. Responses to the open ended questions were evaluated, coded and described.

Results.  Knowledge and attitudes about homosexuality were significantly associated with students’ race, political voting behaviour, religious beliefs and having a friend who is openly lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender.

Conclusions.  It is important to develop strategies to address the existence of prejudicial attitudes among student health professionals and prevent discriminatory practices towards lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender parents when seeking health care for their children.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Educators can develop programs that provide students with knowledge and skills to ensure lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender families receive effective health care when they access services for their children.
The treatment of ‘difficult’ patients in a secure unit of a specialized psychiatric hospital: the patient's perspective
Authors: BOS M. , KOOL‐GOUDZWAARD N. , GAMEL C. J. , KOEKKOEK B. , VAN MEIJEL B.
Published: October 2011

Accessible summary

Some patients in psychiatric hospitals are considered difficult to treat. Their ongoing conflicts with nurses and other health care professionals can result in a deadlock in their treatment.

In these cases, patients can be transferred to another specialist hospital. The research described below was conducted in such a specialist psychiatric hospital. The researchers asked the patients how they felt about their treatment and how it helped them recover.

The patients found the treatment very strict: they had to make commitments and to follow numerous rules concerning eating times, privileges and safety. Also the professionals pointed out the patient's own responsibility for the success of the treatment.

The patients reported that the treatment had helped them considerably. Their anxiety, aggression and other symptoms had decreased. Their confidence increased, and they perceived their future with greater optimism.

The aim of this study is to obtain insight, from a patient's perspective, into the results and essential components of treatment in specialist settings for so‐called ‘difficult’ patients in mental health care. In cases where usual hospital treatment is not successful, a temporary transfer to another, specialist hospital may provide a solution. We investigated which aspects of specialist treatment available to ‘difficult’ patients are perceived as essential by the patients and what are the results of this treatment in their perception. A qualitative research design based on the Grounded Theory method was used. To generate data, 14 semi‐structured interviews were held with 12 patients who were admitted to a specialist hospital in the Netherlands. Almost all respondents rated the results of the specialist treatment as positive. The therapeutic climate was perceived as extremely strict, with a strong focus on structure, cooperation and safety. This approach had a stabilizing effect on the patients, even at times when they were not motivated. Most patients developed a motivation for change, marked by a growing and more explicit determination of their future goals. We concluded that a highly structured treatment environment aimed at patient stabilization is helpful to most ‘difficult’ patients.
The physical health of the seriously mentally ill: an overview of the literature
Authors: COLLINS E. , TRANTER S. , IRVINE F.
Published: October 2011

Accessible summary

Individuals with serious mental ill health suffer excessive physical illness.

The causes of physical illness amongst the seriously mentally ill are complex and multifaceted.

There is limited empirical evidence to support the current emphasis on physical health assessment and health promotion for the seriously mentally ill. More robust research studies are needed to facilitate Evidence Based Practice in this area.

Despite the wealth of literature which attests to the relationship between serious mental illness (SMI) and physical ill health, the provision of optimum physical health care for mental health service users remains a challenge. In England the Department of Health has identified the evident health inequalities for people with SMI as a priority area for health improvement, publishing numerous policy directives aimed at addressing these inequalities. However, this is a highly complex process and little is known about why the rhetoric of holistic health care has proved unattainable thus far. In this paper we present an informed commentary of the contemporary literature with the aim of offering a more comprehensive understanding of the health inequalities faced by people with SMI. We searched relevant databases for publications related to: the causes of poor physical health among the mentally ill, strategies to address these health needs and the impact which professional education, culture and services structure has on this facet of service delivery. This enabled us to identify potential strategies that can be adopted by health care practitioners wishing to improve the health of this vulnerable group, and by educationalists to advance professionals' knowledge of this important and ostensibly neglected area.
Nurses' roles in systematic patient education sessions in psychiatric nursing
Authors: KOIVUNEN M. , HUHTASALO J. , MAKKONEN P. , VÄLIMÄKI M. , HÄTÖNEN H.
Published: October 2011

Accessible summary

This study aimed to identify nurses' roles in systematic patient education sessions in psychiatric inpatient care.

Nurses working in psychiatric hospitals have different roles in systematic patient education and they are ready and willing to tailor their roles according to patients' individual needs.

Patient education with new methods, such as using information technology, has some potential to empower patients with serious mental health disorders to cope in their daily lives.

Hospital organizations should prepare themselves for new cultures and staff's skills to incorporate a new tool in their daily practices should be ensured.

The purpose of this study is to gain understanding of nurses' expectations of their roles in systematic patient education in psychiatric inpatient care. Qualitative design was used in the study. The data were collected through interviews with nurses participating in the implementation of systematic patient education (information technology (IT) based patient education n= 14, or conventional patient education n= 16). The data were analysed using inductive content analysis. The analysis showed that nurses had different roles in both IT‐based and conventional patient education. Nurses acted as learners, advisors, collaborators, teachers or limiters. The nurses tailored the role in each session according to the patients' interest and mental status. We can conclude that nurses working in psychiatric hospitals have different roles in systematic patient education and they are ready and willing to tailor their roles according to patients' individual needs. Information technology should be adopted without delay as a new treatment method in daily practice in psychiatric services. It has potential to support equality between patient and nurse in secluded environments.
Large‐scale flexuring and antithetic extensional faulting along a nascent plate boundary in the SE Afar rift
Authors: Le Gall Bernard , Daoud Mohamed Ahmed , Rolet Joel , Egueh Nima Moussa
Published: October 2011

Terra Nova, 23, 416–420, 2011

New structural data from the SE Afar margin in Djibouti lead us to discriminate two recent (<1 Ma) extensional fault networks between the Afar accreted crust, and the South Danakil block to the east. Emphasis is placed on the N–S‐oriented Makarassou fault system which dissects the prominent westward‐(riftward‐)facing topographic flexure between the two structural domains. The most striking characteristic of the Makarassou fault belt is a closely spaced network of continentward‐dipping extensional faults, bounding domino blocks of 3–1 Ma tilted lavas of the Stratoid series. The Makarassou fault–flexure system is interpreted as an extensional faulted monocline that developed in response to differential subsidence and crustal downwarping of the Afar magmatically accreted transitional crust. Large‐scale flexuring and associated structures along the eastern flank of the Asal–Manda‐Inakir incipient plate boundary are regarded as indicative of a nascent volcanic rifted margin in SE Afar.
Utilization and expenditure at public and private facilities in 39 low‐income countries
Authors: Saksena Priyanka , Xu Ke , Elovainio Riku , Perrot Jean
Published: October 2011

Objective  To document the patterns of health service utilization and health payments at public and private facilities across countries.

Method  We used data from the World Health Surveys from 39 low‐ and low‐middle income countries to examine differences between public and private sectors. Utilization of outpatient and inpatient services, out‐of‐pocket payments (OOP) at public and private facilities, and transportation costs were compared.

Results  Utilization and payments to public and private sectors differ widely. Public facilities dominated in most countries for both outpatient and inpatient services. But, whereas use of private facilities is more common among the rich, poor people also use them, to a considerable extent and in almost all the countries in the study. The majority of OOP were incurred at public providers for inpatient services. On average, this was not the case for outpatient services. Medicines accounted for the largest share of OOP for all services except inpatient services at private facilities, where consultation fees did. Transportation costs were considerable. Price competition is certainly not the only factor that guides choice of provider.

Conclusions  The results support continued efforts by the governments to engage strategically with the private sector. However, they also highlight the importance of not generalizing conditions across countries. Governments may need to reconsider simplistic user‐fee abolition strategies at public providers if they simply focus on consultation fees. Policies to make health services more accessible need to consider a comprehensive benefit package that includes a wider scope of costs related to care such as expenditures on medicines and transportation.
Serum zinc and copper status in Iranian patients with pemphigus vulgaris
Authors: Yazdanpanah Mohammad Javad , Ghayour‐Mobarhan Majid , Taji Alireza , Javidi Zari , Pezeshkpoor Fakhrozaman , Tavallaie Shima , Momenzadeh Akram , Esmaili Habibollah , Shojaie‐Noori Saber , Khoddami Mohsen , Sahebkar Amirhossein
Published: October 2011

Background The role of nutritional factors including trace elements has been reported in the pathogenesis of many autoimmune diseases.

Objective Regarding the relatively high prevalence of pemphigus vulgaris in Iran, we investigated the serum levels of zinc and copper as two important trace elements, together with the oxidative stress status in patients with pemphigus vulgaris.

Materials and methods This case‐control study was performed on 25 patients with newly diagnosed pemphigus vulgaris and 25 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy control subjects. Serum concentrations of zinc, copper, ceruloplasmin as well as copper/zinc ratio were determined for each subject. Oxidative stress was also measured using a novel assay of peroxidant‐antioxidant balance (PAB).

Results Mean serum concentrations of zinc and copper as well as copper/zinc ratio were significantly lower in patients (mean age: 47.2 ± 16.2 years; male/female: 14/11) compared with the controls (mean age: 47.3 ± 12.8 years; male/female: 14/11;P < 0.001). In contrast, PAB values were significantly elevated in patients compared with controls (P < 0.01). No significant difference in serum ceruloplasmin concentrations was observed between the groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion Our findings indicate that low serum zinc and copper and increased oxidative stress may be associated with pemphigus vulgaris.
Treatment of imported New World cutaneous leishmaniasis in Germany
Authors: Harms Gundel , Scherbaum Helmut , Reiter‐Owona Ingrid , Stich August , Richter Joachim
Published: October 2011

Background  Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL), a parasitic disease which represents a public health problem, particularly in Central and South America, has become a leading condition in travelers who return from tropical countries with skin disorders. Cutaneous leishmaniasis caused by Leishmania (Viannia) braziliensis, the most common causative agent, requires systemic treatment because it is potentially able to disseminate and to cause mucosal or mucocutaneous disease. Although several drugs are available for the systemic treatment of leishmaniases, a definitive treatment regimen for infection caused by species of the Viannia subgenus has yet to be established in many countries, including Germany.

Methods  We analyzed treatment outcomes in 23 returnees from Central and South America who were diagnosed with L. (V.) braziliensis CL by polymerase chain reaction.

Results  Complete cure within one month following treatment was observed in 18 patients (78%). Cure was achieved with liposomal amphotericin B in 11 of 13 patients, miltefosine in five of eight patients, and meglumine antimoniate in two (of two) patients. Of the five patients (22%) who failed to respond to initial therapy, four were cured with meglumine antimoniate and one with liposomal amphotericin B.

Conclusions  In this outcome evaluation of treatment of imported L. (V.) braziliensis infections, liposomal amphotericin B, miltefosine, and meglumine antimoniate proved to be effective. Conventional meglumine antimoniate showed high efficacy as a first‐line treatment and cured lesions that failed to respond to the other two drugs. A multi‐country study using standardized treatment protocols is needed to establish a definitive regimen.
Presence of Borrelia burgdorferi“Sensu Lato” in patients with morphea from the Amazonic region in Brazil
Authors: Santos Mônica , Ribeiro‐Rodrigues Rodrigo , Talhari Carolina , Ferreira Luiz C. L. , Zelger Bernhard , Talhari Sinesio
Published: October 2011

Background  In the present study, Borrelia spirochetes were found in four (26,6%) out of 15 patients with Atrophoderma of Pasini and Pierini (IAPP) and lichen sclerosis et atrophicans (LSA) from the Brazilian Amazon Region.

Material and methods  Borreliosis was investigated by immunohistochemistry and focus floating microscopy for Borrelia burgdorferi in skin biopsy samples from 15 patients with both clinical and histopathology evidences compatible with Morphea, LSA, and IAPP.

Results  Spirochetes were detected by specific immunohistochemistry and focus floating microscopy for B. burgdorferi in samples from three patients. A limitation of our study was the fact that we were not able to isolate and culture these organisms.

Conclusion  Our data confirm the presence of borreliosis cases in the Amazon.
Prophylactic use of zoledronic acid to prevent early bone loss is safe and feasible in patients with acute myeloid leukemia undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Ganguly Siddhartha , Divine Clint L. , Aljitawi Omar S. , Abhyankar Sunil , McGuirk Joseph P. , Graves Leland
Published: October 2011

Ganguly S, Divine CL, Aljitawi OS, Abhyankar S, McGuirk JP, Graves L. Prophylactic use of zoledronic acid to prevent early bone loss is safe and feasible in patients with acute myeloid leukemia undergoing allogeneic stem cell transplantation.  Clin Transplant 2011 DOI: 10.1111/j.1399‐0012.2011.01527.x.  © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Osteopenia and osteoporosis are well‐known consequences of allogeneic stem cell transplantation (allo‐SCT). The role of prophylactic zoledronic acid on bone turnover following allo‐SCT has not been well characterized. We prospectively studied the role of prophylactic use of zoledronic acid on bone metabolism in 17 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) undergoing allo‐SCT over a period of three yr (2006–2009). We measured bone mineral density using dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) scanning and the markers of bone turnover by urinary N‐terminal telopeptide (uNTX) and serum osteocalcin levels prior to and serially following transplantation. All patients received 4 mg of zoledronic acid (Zometa, Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp., Basel, Switzerland) intravenously prior to starting conditioning regimen and at six months after SCT. DXA scores did not change significantly in any patient over time (p > 0.05). uNTX progressively decreased over time (p < 0.001) and serum osteocalcin stabilized after six months. No patient developed osteonecrosis of the jaw. In conclusion, in this prospective pilot study, prophylactic use of zoledronic acid to prevent early bone loss was found to be safe and feasible in patients with AML undergoing allo‐SCT during the immediate post‐transplantation period.
Deg proteases and their role in protein quality control and processing in different subcellular compartments of the plant cell
Authors: Schuhmann Holger , Adamska Iwona
Published: October 2011

Degradation of periplasmic proteins (Deg)/high temperature requirement A (HtrA) proteases are ATP‐independent serine endopeptidases found in almost every organism. Database searches revealed that 16 Deg paralogues are encoded by the genome of Arabidopsis thaliana, six of which were experimentally shown to be located in chloroplasts, one in peroxisomes, one in mitochondria and one in the nucleus. Two more Deg proteases are predicted to reside in chloroplasts, five in mitochondria (one of them with a dual chloroplastidial/mitochondrial localization) and the subcellular location of one protein is uncertain. This review summarizes the current knowledge on the role of Deg proteases in maintaining protein homeostasis and protein processing in various subcompartments of the plant cell. The chloroplast Deg proteases are the best examined so far, especially with respect to their role in the degradation of photodamaged photosynthetic proteins and in biogenesis of photosystem II (PSII). A combined action of thylakoid lumen and stroma Deg proteases in the primary cleavage of photodamaged D1 protein from PSII reaction centre is discussed on the basis of a recently resolved crystal structure of plant Deg1. The peroxisomal Deg protease is a processing enzyme responsible for the cleavage of N‐terminal peroxisomal targeting signals (PTSs). A. thaliana mutants lacking this enzyme show reduced peroxisomal β‐oxidation, indicating for the first time the impact of protein processing on peroxisomal functions in plants. Much less data is available for mitochondrial and nuclear Deg proteases. Based on the available expression data we hypothesize a role in general protein quality control and during acquired heat resistance.
Phengite geochronology of crystalline schists in the Sakuma–Tenryu district, central Japan
Authors: NUONG NGUYEN DIEU , THANH NGO XUAN , GOUZU CHITARO , ITAYA TETSUMARU
Published: October 2011

The Sakuma–Tenryu district consists mainly of pelitic and basic schists. Its metamorphic sequence has been divided into two units, the Shirakura and the Sejiri units. We carried out K–Ar analyses of phengite separates and X‐ray diffraction analyses of carbonaceous materials from the pelitic schists of both units. The age–d002 relationships show that the ages become older (66–73 Ma) in the Shirakura unit and younger (57–48 Ma) in the latter with increasing metamorphic temperature. The former has a positive relationship observed in the Sanbagawa meta‐Accretionary Complex (meta‐AC) (Sanbagawa metamorphic belt sensu stricto) in central Shikoku and the latter, a negative one in the Shimanto meta‐AC (a subunit of traditional Sanbagawa belt) of the Kanto Mountains. These contrasting age–temperature relationships are due to different tectonic styles relating to the exhumation of the metamorphic sequences. The duration from the peak metamorphism to the closure of the phengite K–Ar system was significantly different between the two metamorphic sequences: longer than 31 my in the Sanbagawa meta‐AC and shorter than 13 my in the Shimanto meta‐AC. The different natures of subducted plate boundaries may cause the different exhumation processes of metamorphic belts.