bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation and Dissociation of the BSS1 Protein Complex Regulates Plant Development via Brassinosteroid Signaling
Authors: Shimada Setsuko , Komatsu Tomoyuki , Yamagami Ayumi , Nakazawa Miki , Matsui Minami , Kawaide Hiroshi , Natsume Masahiro , Osada Hiroyuki , Asami Tadao , Nakano Takeshi
Published: February 2015

Brassinosteroids (BRs) play important roles in plant development and the response to environmental cues. BIL1/BZR1 is a master transcription factor in BR signaling, but the mechanisms that lead to the finely tuned targeting of BIL1/BZR1 by BRs are unknown. Here, we identified BRZ-SENSITIVE-SHORT HYPOCOTYL1 (BSS1) as a negative regulator of BR signaling in a chemical-biological analysis involving brassinazole (Brz), a specific BR biosynthesis inhibitor. The bss1-1D mutant, which overexpresses BSS1, exhibited a Brz-hypersensitive phenotype in hypocotyl elongation. BSS1 encodes a BTB-POZ domain protein with ankyrin repeats, known as BLADE ON PETIOLE1 (BOP1), which is an important regulator of leaf morphogenesis. The bss1-1D mutant exhibited an increased accumulation of phosphorylated BIL1/BZR1 and a negative regulation of BR-responsive genes. The number of fluorescent BSS1/BOP1-GFP puncta increased in response to Brz treatment, and the puncta were diffused by BR treatment in the root and hypocotyl. We show that BSS1/BOP1 directly interacts with BIL1/BZR1 or BES1. The large protein complex formed between BSS1/BOP1 and BIL1/BZR1 was only detected in the cytosol. The nuclear BIL1/BZR1 increased in the BSS1/BOP1-deficient background and decreased in the BSS1/BOP1-overexpressing background. Our study suggests that the BSS1/BOP1 protein complex inhibits the transport of BIL1/BZR1 to the nucleus from the cytosol and negatively regulates BR signaling.
Successful selection of an infection‐protective anti‐Staphylococcus aureus monoclonal antibody and its protective activity in murine infection models
Authors: Ohsawa Hiroyoshi , Baba Tadashi , Enami Jumpei , Hiramatsu Keiichi
Published: February 2015

Recent clinical trials to develop anti‐methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) therapeutic antibodies have met unsuccessful sequels. To develop more effective antibodies against MRSA infection, a panel of mAbs against S. aureus cell wall was generated and then screened for the most protective mAb in mouse infection models. Twenty‐two anti‐S. aureus IgG mAbs were obtained from mice that had been immunized with alkali‐processed, deacetylated cell walls of S. aureus. One of these mAbs, ZBIA5H, exhibited life‐saving effects in mouse models of sepsis caused by community‐acquired MRSA strain MW2 and vancomycin‐resistant S. aureus strain VRS1. It also had a curative effect in a MW2‐caused pneumonia model. Curiously, the target of ZBIA5H was considered to be a conformational epitope of either the 1,4‐β‐linkage between N‐acetylmuramic acid and N‐acetyl‐D‐glucosamine or the peptidoglycan per se. Reactivity of ZBIA5H to S. aureus whole cells or purified peptidoglycan was weaker than that of most of the other mAbs generated in this study. However, the latter mAbs did not have the protective activities against S. aureus that ZBIA5H did. These data indicate that the epitopes that trigger production of high‐yield and/or high‐affinity antibodies may not be the most suitable epitopes for developing anti‐infective antibodies. ZBIA5H or its humanized form may find a future clinical application, and its target epitope may be used for the production of vaccines against S. aureus infection.
Replication of IMR‐32‐adapted JC virus clones in human embryonic kidney cells
Authors: Nukuzuma Souichi , Sugiura Shigeki , Nakamichi Kazuo , Kameoka Masanori , Nukuzuma Chiyoko , Tasaki Takafumi , Takegami Tsutomu
Published: February 2015

It has been difficult to study JCV replication because of its restricted host range. In this study, JCV replication was examined using different clones in 293 cells. RT‐PCR assay revealed that large T antigen expression in cells transfected with IMR‐32‐adapted JCVs was significantly greater than in those transfected with Mad‐1 or CY. DNA replication assay and viral load verified that the IMR‐32‐adapted JCVs were replication‐competent in 293 cells, but not Mad‐1 or CY JCVs. These results suggest that a 293 culture system with IMR‐32‐adapted JCVs may be a useful tool for assessing replication of JCV in vitro.
Accounting and Preserving the American Way of Life
Authors: Walker Stephen P.
Published: February 2015

Responding to calls to instate the visual in accounting history research, this study utilizes photographic images to reveal the role of accounting in the attempt to preserve an ideal (ruralism) and an institution (the family farm) in theUnited States. These elemental features of the American way of life were threatened during the interwar depression, resulting in governmental programs to secure their restoration. The analysis of official imagery reveals how the accounting prescriptions attending state intervention in agriculture were deemed conducive to the fortification of the economic, social and political foundations of agrarian living. Documentary photographs propagated the notion that accounting facilitated companionate marriage and the inclusive family. They also suggested that accounting was a focus for encouraging the communitarian endeavor, democratic participation and receptivity to state interventionism considered necessary to preserve the rural mode of living.
Spangled perch (Leiopotherapon unicolor) in the southern Murray‐Darling Basin: Flood dispersal and short‐term persistence outside its core range
Authors: Ellis Iain , Whiterod Nick , Linklater Danielle , Bogenhuber Deborah , Brown Paul , Gilligan Dean
Published: February 2015

The spangled perch Leiopotherapon unicolor is considered a rare vagrant in the southern Murray‐Darling Basin, Australia, due to its intolerance of the relatively cool water temperatures that prevail during winter months. This study details 1342 records of the species from 68 locations between 2010 and 2014 outside its accepted ‘core adult range’ following widespread flooding during 2010 and 2011. Although records of the species declined over 2013, L. unicolor remained resident in the southern Murray‐Darling Basin as of April 2014. The species persisted in several locations for three consecutive winters with recruitment documented at two sites. This study represents the first identification of the dispersal of large numbers of L. unicolor into the southern Murray‐Darling Basin, persistence beyond a single winter, and recruitment by the species in habitats south of its recognized ‘core adult range’. Targeted research would determine the potential for predicted environmental changes (artificially warmer drainage wetlands, climate change and greater floodplain connectivity) to facilitate longer term persistence and range expansion by the species in the southern Murray‐Darling Basin.
Interleukin‐33 exacerbates allergic bronchoconstriction in the mice via activation of mast cells
Authors: Sjöberg L. C. , Gregory J. A. , Dahlén S.‐E. , Nilsson G. P. , Adner M.
Published: February 2015

Background

Interleukin‐33 (IL‐33) is implicated as an epithelium‐derived danger signal promoting Th2‐dependent responses in asthma. We hypothesized that IL‐33 might also have direct effects on mast cell‐driven allergic airway obstruction.

Methods

The effects of IL‐33 on allergic responses in the airways of sensiti‐zed mice were assessed both in vivo and ex vivo, as well as on cultured mast cells in vitro.

Results

In vivo, the allergen‐induced increase in resistance in the conducting airways was enhanced in mice pretreated with IL‐33. Also, in the isolated airways, the allergen‐induced contractions were increased in preparations from animals subjected to intranasal IL‐33 pretreatment. These effects in vivo and ex vivo were blocked by the 5‐HT2A receptor antagonist ketanserin and absent in mice without mast cells. Likewise, the IL‐33‐induced enhancement of the allergen response was absent in isolated airways from mice lacking the IL‐33 receptor. Moreover, exposure to IL‐33 increased secretion of serotonin from allergen‐challenged isolated airways. In cultured mast cells, IL‐33 enhanced the expression of tryptophan hydroxylase 1, serotonin synthesis, and storage, as well as the secretion of serotonin following IgE receptor cross‐linking.

Conclusion

These results demonstrate that IL‐33 exacerbates allergic bronchoconstriction by increasing synthesis, storage, and secretion of serotonin from the mast cell. This mechanism has implications for the development of airway obstruction in asthma.
Impact of metformin on anti‐Müllerian hormone in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: a secondary analysis of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Madsen Helen N. , Lauszus Finn F. , Trolle Birgitta , Ingerslev Hans J. , Tørring Niels
Published: February 2015

Conclusions on the effect of metformin on circulating anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are ambiguous. We performed a secondary analysis of a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled cross‐over trial. Fifty‐six women with hyperandrogenemic PCOS were included. Each woman served as her own control receiving a daily dose of either 1700 mg metformin or placebo for 6 months. After a 3‐month wash‐out period they received the opposite treatment. The decrease in AMH from a median of 49.5 to 46.9 pmol/L after 6 months on metformin was overall not significant (p = 0.81), nor were changes in obese women (from 49.5 to 38.2 pmol/L; p = 0.53). Comparing individual metformin/placebo AMH values, a small absolute decrease of 9.3 pmol/L (p = 0.03) was observed in obese women after 6 months relative to baseline, suggesting a trend towards decreasing values after metformin treatment, mainly in obese women.
Severe and fatal obstetric injury claims in relation to labor unit volume
Authors: Milland Maria , Mikkelsen Kim L. , Christoffersen Jens K. , Hedegaard Morten
Published: February 2015

Objective

To assess possible association between the incidence of approved claims for severe and fatal obstetric injuries and delivery volume in Denmark.

Design and setting

A nationwide panel study of labor units.

Population

Claimants seeking financial compensation due to injuries occurring in labor units in 1995–2012.

Methods

Exposure information regarding the annual number of deliveries per labor unit was retrieved from the Danish National Birth Register. Outcome information was retrieved from the Danish Patient Compensation Association. Exposure was categorized in delivery volume quintiles as annual volume per labor unit: (10–1377), (1378–2016), (2017–2801), (2802–3861), (3862–6659).

Main outcome measures

Five primary measures of outcome were used. Incidence rate ratios of (A) Submitted claims, (B) Approved claims, (C) Approved severe injury claims (120% degree of disability), (D) Approved fatal injury claims, and (C+D) Combined.

Results

1 151 734 deliveries in 51 labor units and 1872 submitted claims were included. The incidence rate ratios of approved claims overall, of approved fatal injury claims, and of approved severe and fatal injuries combined increased significantly with decreasing annual delivery volume. Face value incidence rate ratios of approved severe injuries increased with decreasing labor unit volume, but the association did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusion

High volume labor units appear associated with fewer approved and fewer fatal injury claims compared with units with less volume. The findings support the development towards consolidation of units in Denmark. A suggested option would be to tailor obstetric patient safety initiatives according to the delivery volume of individual labor units.
New Oxidovanadium Complexes Incorporating Thiosemicarbazones and 1, 10‐Phenanthroline Derivatives as DNA Cleavage, Potential Anticancer Agents, and Hydroxyl Radical Scavenger
Authors: Ying Peng , Zeng Pengfei , Lu Jiazheng , Chen Hongyuan , Liao Xiangwen , Yang Ning
Published: February 2015

Four novel oxidovanadium(IV) complexes, [VO(hntdtsc)(PHIP)] (1) (hntdtsc = 2‐hydroxy‐1‐naphthaldehyde thiosemicarbazone, PHIP= 2‐phenyl‐imidazo[4,5‐f]1,10‐phenanthroline), [VO(hntdtsc)(DPPZ)](2)(DPPZ= dipyrido[3,2‐a:2',3'‐c]phenazine), [VO(satsc)(PHIP)](3) (satsc=salicylaldehyde thiosemicarbazone), and [VO(satsc)(DPPZ)](4), have been prepared and characterized. The chemical nuclease activities and photocleavage reactions of the complexes were tested. All four complexes can efficiently cleave pBR322 DNA, and complex 1 has the best cleaving ability. The antitumor properties of these complexes were examined with three different tumor cell lines using MTT assay. Their antitumor mechanism has been analyzed using cell cycle analysis, fluorescence microscopy of apoptosis, and Annexin V‐FITC/PI assay. The results showed that the growth of human neuroblastoma (SH‐SY5Y, SK‐N‐SH) and human breast adenocarcinoma (MCF‐7) cells were inhibited significantly with very low IC50 values. Complex 1 was found to be the most potent antitumor agent among the four complexes. It can cause G0/G1 phase arrest of the cell cycle and exhibited significant induced apoptosis in SK‐N‐SH cells and displayed typical morphological apoptotic characteristics. In addition, they all displayed reasonable abilities to scavenge hydroxyl radical, and complex 1 was the best inhibitor.
Response of fibroblast growth factor 21 to meal intake and insulin infusion in patients on maintenance haemodialysis
Authors: Reinhard Mark , Frystyk Jan , Jespersen Bente , Randers Else , Bibby Bo Martin , Ivarsen Per
Published: February 2015

Objective

To investigate the response of serum fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) to a meal and to insulin infusion in haemodialysis (HD) patients.

Design and Patients

Meal study: in a crossover design, 12 nondiabetic HD patients were randomly assigned to: (1) a non‐HD day with one meal served, (2) a HD day with one meal served during HD and (3) a HD day with two meals served during and after HD, respectively. Twelve healthy controls participated in an experiment identical to the non‐HD day. Insulin infusion study: in a crossover design, 11 nondiabetic HD patients were randomly assigned to receive a 4‐h HD session with either: (1) no infusion, (2) glucose infusion or (3) glucose–insulin infusion. A meal was served 2 h before HD start.

Results

Meal study: serum FGF21 was 23‐fold higher in HD patients than controls (P < 0·001). Postprandial FGF21 decreased on all four study days (P < 0·006), but the relative reductions from baseline were significantly greater in controls (P < 0·008). Postprandial changes in FGF21 were inversely related with triglycerides (P = 0·042) and positively related with insulin‐like growth factor binding protein‐1 (IGFBP‐1) (P < 0·001). Serum FGF21 was only associated with changes in adiponectin (P = 0·001) and free fatty acids (P = 0·04) in the healthy controls.

Insulin infusion study: as compared with no infusion, glucose and glucose–insulin infusion prevented the postprandial decrease in FGF21 and resulted in higher FGF21 concentrations by up to 25% (P = 0·003).

Conclusions

Serum FGF21 was highly elevated in HD patients but the response of serum FGF21 to meal intake and insulin infusion seemed to be intact. Our results indicate that FGF21 may play an important role in short‐term metabolic homoeostasis.
Higher serum testosterone and dihydrotestosterone, but not oestradiol, are independently associated with favourable indices of lung function in community‐dwelling men
Authors: Mohan Shalini S. , Knuiman Matthew W. , Divitini Mark L. , James Alan L. , Musk Arthur W. , Handelsman David J. , Beilin Jonathan , Hunter Michael , Yeap Bu B.
Published: February 2015

Objectives

Lower circulating androgens and poorer lung function are associated with increased cardiovascular risk and mortality in men. The association between androgens and lung function is unclear. We tested the hypothesis that circulating testosterone (T) and its metabolites dihydrotestosterone (DHT) and oestradiol (E2) are differentially associated with lung function in men.

Methods

Early‐morning serum T, DHT and E2 were assayed using mass spectrometry in 1768 community‐dwelling men from Busselton, Western Australia. Forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) were measured using spirometry. Linear regression models adjusting for age, height, smoking, exercise, body mass index, respiratory conditions and cardiovascular risk factors were used.

Results

Mean age was 50.1 ± 16·8 years. 16·0% were current smokers, 14·1% reported a history of asthma and 2·7% reported chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Current smokers had higher T compared with never smokers (age‐adjusted mean 14·5 vs 13·5 nmol/l, P = 0·002) and higher E2 (65·3 vs 60·1 pmol/l, P = 0·017). In fully adjusted analyses, T was associated with FEV1 (51 ml per 1 SD increase, P < 0·001) as was DHT (62 ml, P < 0·001), E2 was not (P = 0·926). Similar results were seen for FVC (T: 76 ml, P < 0·001; DHT: 65 ml, P < 0·001; E2 P = 0·664). Higher DHT was marginally associated with the ratio FEV1/FVC (0·3% per 1 SD increase, P = 0·047).

Conclusions

Both T and DHT were independently associated with higher FEV1 and FVC in predominantly middle‐aged community‐dwelling men. Androgens may contribute to, or be biomarkers for, better lung function in men. Further research is needed to clarify whether androgens preserve lung function in ageing men.
Postprandial self‐monitoring of urine glucose reflects glycaemic control in people with relatively well controlled Type 2 diabetes mellitus not treated with insulin: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Müller N. , Kämmer K. , Kloos C. , Wolf G. , Müller U. A.
Published: February 2015

Aim

To analyse the association of self‐monitoring of urine glucose with HbA1c concentration in people with Type 2 diabetes not treated with insulin.

Methods

We studied the association of postprandial self‐monitored urine glucose with HbA1c concentrations in 264 people with Type 2 diabetes (mean age 62.4 years, time since diagnosis of diabetes 6.8 years and HbA1c 50 mmol/l). All patients took part in a diabetes treatment and teaching programme. HbA1c values were adjusted according to the Diabetes Control and Complication Trial.

Results

The mean ( ± sd) HbA1c concentration for the patients with constant negative urine glucose tests (56.1% of patients) was 46 ( ± 6) mmol/mol [6.4 ( ± 0.6)%]. This was significantly lower than in patients with < 50% positive urine glucose tests (33.3% of patients): mean ( ± sd) HbA1c was 53 ( ± 8) mmol/mol [7.0( ± 0.7)%] and also lower than in patients with ≥50% positive tests (10.6% of patients): mean ( ± sd) HbA1c of 57 ( ± 8) mmol/mol [7.4 ( ± 0.7)%]; P < 0.001. There was a significant correlation between the urine glucose test results and HbA1c (r = 0.416; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

HbA1c concentrations were observed to be in the near‐normal range for people with Type 2 diabetes not receiving insulin treatment who were negative for postprandial glucosuria. Urine glucose self‐monitoring is a cheap and effective method to determine the quality of glucose control.
The INTERPRET–DD study of diabetes and depression: a protocol
Authors: Lloyd C. E. , Sartorius N. , Cimino L. C. , Alvarez A. , Guinzbourg de Braude M. , Rabbani G. , Uddin Ahmed H. , Papelbaum M. , Regina de Freitas S. , Ji L. , Yu X. , Gaebel W. , Müssig K. , Chaturvedi S. K. , Srikanta S. S. , Burti L. , Bulgari V. , Musau A. , Ndetei D. , Heinze G. , Romo Nava F. , Taj R. , Khan A. , Kokoszka A. , Papasz‐Siemieniuk A. , Starostina E. G. , Bobrov A. E. , Lecic‐Tosevski D. , Lalic N. M. , Udomratn P. , Tangwongchai S. , Bahendeka S. , Basangwa D. , Mankovsky B.
Published: February 2015

Aim

People with diabetes are at an increased risk of developing depression and other psychological disorders. However, little is known about the prevalence, correlates or care pathways in countries other than the UK and the USA. A new study, the International Prevalence and Treatment of Diabetes and Depression Study (INTERPRET–DD) aims to address this dearth of knowledge and identify optimal pathways to care across the globe.

Method

INTERPRET–DD is a 2‐year longitudinal study, taking place in 16 countries’ diabetes outpatients’ facilities, investigating the recognition and management of depressive disorders in people with Type 2 diabetes. Clinical interviews are used to diagnose depression, with clinical and other data obtained from medical records and through patient interviews. Pathways to care and the impact of treatment for previously unrecognized (undocumented) depression on clinical outcomes and emotional well‐being are being investigated.

Results

Initial evidence indicates that a range of pathways to care exist, with few of them based on available recommendations for treatment. Pilot data indicates that the instruments we are using to measure both the symptoms and clinical diagnosis of depression are acceptable in our study population and easy to use.

Conclusions

Our study will increase the understanding of the impact of comorbid diabetes and depression and identify the most appropriate (country‐specific) pathways via which patients receive their care. It addresses an important public health problem and leads to recommendations for best practice relevant to the different participating centres with regard to the identification and treatment of people with comorbid diabetes and depression.
Dental undergraduate students' participation in research in China: current state and directions
Authors: Ping W.
Published: February 2015

Purpose

It is not until the recent 10 years, when an increasing number of dental undergraduate students in China have gradually participated in scientific research. However, few studies have analysed the current status of this new wave. Therefore, the present study aims to investigate dental undergraduate students' participation in research and to explore possible options for refining or reforming the existing teaching and research system in dentistry.

Methods

The authors constructed a questionnaire that was completed by a sample of students from a high‐ranking dental school in China. The data were processed with SPSS software.

Results

Of all the 250 questionnaires distributed, 191 were returned, 186 of which were complete and suitable for analysis. Over a half of the respondents had participated in research programmes. There were diversified motives for undergraduate participation in scientific research.

Discussion

These findings have led us to speculate on the current state of undergraduate participation in scientific research and the underlying problems. This preliminary investigation yielded intriguing findings: (i) the distribution of scientific resources influences scientific production. (ii) lack of interest in science has a negative impact on the reserve of the future scientific workforce. (iii) diverse motives for participation in undergraduate research reveal lack of understanding of the essence of science.

Conclusions

It is proposed that the current education and research system in dental higher education should be systemically reformed.
Evaluation of antimicrobial peptides and cytokine production in primary keratinocyte cell culture from healthy and atopic beagles
Authors: Santoro Domenico , Ahrens Kim , Marsella Rosanna , Segre Mariangela
Published: February 2015

Increased secretion of antimicrobial peptides and cytokines is present in atopic skin. The purpose of this study was to compare the production of β‐defensin (cBD)3‐like, cathelicidin (cCath) and cytokines in atopic and healthy canine keratinocytes. Seven atopic house dust mites (HDMs) sensitive and five healthy age‐matched beagles were used. Keratinocytes were stimulated for 24 h, and the supernatant was collected. A significantly higher production of cBD3‐like was present at baseline in atopic compared with healthy keratinocytes, but cBD3‐like did not increase after stimulation. IL‐17 and lipopolysaccharide increased cBD3‐like in healthy compared with atopic keratinocytes. cCath increased in both groups after stimulation. Atopic keratinocytes exposed to HDM produced more IL‐8 and keratinocyte‐derived chemokine‐like than healthy keratinocytes. Exposure to HDM induced an increased IL‐8 in atopic keratinocytes and a decreased IFN‐γ in healthy keratinocytes. These results may suggest an over sensitization of atopic keratinocytes and a possible impairment of the cutaneous defense against micro‐organisms.
SATB2 suppresses the progression of colorectal cancer cells via inactivation of MEK5/ERK5 signaling
Authors: Mansour Mohammed A. , Hyodo Toshinori , Ito Satoko , Kurita Kenji , Kokuryo Toshio , Uehara Keisuke , Nagino Masato , Takahashi Masahide , Hamaguchi Michinari , Senga Takeshi
Published: February 2015

Special AT‐rich sequence binding protein 2 (SATB2) is an evolutionarily conserved transcription factor that has multiple roles in neuronal development, osteoblast differentiation, and craniofacial patterning. SATB2 binds to the nuclear matrix attachment region, and regulates the expression of diverse sets of genes by altering chromatin structure. Recent studies have reported that high expression of SATB2 is associated with favorable prognosis in colorectal and laryngeal cancer; however, it remains uncertain whether SATB2 has tumor‐suppressive functions in cancer cells. In this study, we examined the effects of SATB2 expression on the malignant characteristics of colorectal cancer cells. Expression of SATB2 repressed the proliferation of cancer cells in vitro and in vivo, and also suppressed their migration and invasion. Extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 5 (ERK5) is a mitogen‐activated protein kinase that is associated with an aggressive phenotype in various types of cancer. SATB2 expression reduced the activity of ERK5, and constitutive activation of ERK5 restored the proliferation, anchorage‐independent growth, migration and invasion of SATB2‐expressing cells. Our results demonstrate the existence of a novel regulatory mechanism of SATB2‐mediated tumor suppression via ERK5 inactivation.
ClpL is a chaperone without auxiliary factors
Authors: Park Sang‐Sang , Kwon Hyog‐Young , Tran Thao Dang‐Hien , Choi Moo‐Hyun , Jung Seung‐Ha , Lee Sangho , Briles David E. , Rhee Dong‐Kwon
Published: February 2015

Caseinolytic protease L (ClpL) is a member of the heat shock protein (Hsp) 100 family, which is found mostly in Gram‐positive bacteria. Here, ClpL, a major HSP in Streptococcus pneumoniae (pneumococcus), was biochemically characterized in vitro. Recombinant ClpL shows nucleotide hydrolase, refolding, holdase and disaggregation activity using either Mg2+ or Mn2+ and does not require the DnaK system for chaperone activity. ClpL exhibits two features distinct from other HSP100 family proteins: (a) Mn2+ enhances hydrolase activity, as well as chaperone activity; and (b) NTPase activity. ClpL forms a hexamer in the presence of ADP, ATP and ATP‐γ‐S. Mutational analysis using double‐mutant proteins mutated at the two Walker A motifs (K127A/T128A and K458A/T459A) revealed that both nucleotide‐binding domains are involved in chaperone activity, ATP hydrolase activity and hexamerization. Overall, pneumococcal ClpL is a unique Mn2+‐dependent Hsp100 family member that has chaperone activity without other co‐chaperones.
The timing of autumn senescence is affected by the timing of spring phenology: implications for predictive models
Authors: Keenan Trevor F. , Richardson Andrew D.
Published: February 2015

Autumn senescence regulates multiple aspects of ecosystem function, along with associated feedbacks to the climate system. Despite its importance, current understanding of the drivers of senescence is limited, leading to a large spread in predictions of how the timing of senescence, and thus the length of the growing season, will change under future climate conditions. The most commonly held paradigm is that temperature and photoperiod are the primary controls, which suggests a future extension of the autumnal growing season as global temperatures rise. Here, using two decades of ground‐ and satellite‐based observations of temperate deciduous forest phenology, we show that the timing of autumn senescence is correlated with the timing of spring budburst across the entire eastern United States. On a year‐to‐year basis, an earlier/later spring was associated with an earlier/later autumn senescence, both for individual species and at a regional scale. We use the observed relationship to develop a novel model of autumn phenology. In contrast to current phenology models, this model predicts that the potential response of autumn phenology to future climate change is strongly limited by the impact of climate change on spring phenology. Current models of autumn phenology therefore may overpredict future increases in the length of the growing season, with subsequent impacts for modeling future CO2 uptake and evapotranspiration.
Light grazing of saltmarshes is a direct and indirect cause of nest failure in Common Redshank Tringa totanus
Authors: Sharps Elwyn , Smart Jennifer , Skov Martin W. , Garbutt Angus , Hiddink Jan G.
Published: February 2015

The Common Redshank Tringa totanus breeding population on British saltmarshes has declined by over 50% since 1985, with declines linked to changes in grazing management. Conservation initiatives have encouraged low‐intensity grazing of less than one cattle per hectare, but Redshank have continued to decline, even in regions where light grazing was predominant. This study quantified effects of grazing intensity on Redshank nest survival over six lightly grazed saltmarshes with livestock densities between 0 and 0.82 cattle per hectare, in the Ribble Estuary, northwest England. We assessed whether grazing resulted in nest mortality directly through cattle trampling and/or indirectly through grazer modification of habitat that accelerates predation risks. Cattle density was recorded both during the Redshank breeding season and for 1 year prior to the study, to account for both short‐term trampling effects and the longer term effects on vegetation. Results showed that risk of nest loss to trampling increased from 16% at 0.15 cattle per hectare to 98% at 0.82 cattle per hectare in the breeding season. The risk of a nest being predated increased from 28% with no grazing to 95% at 0.55 cattle per hectare based on all year grazing data. These results suggest that even light conservation grazing at less than one cattle per hectare can reduce Redshank nest survival rates to near zero. It may therefore be appropriate to reduce saltmarsh grazing intensities, or change the timing of saltmarsh grazing to reduce the number of livestock present during the Redshank breeding season.
Qualitative characterization of a transesterification product of coconut oil by FIA‐APCI‐MS
Authors: Cortese M. , Ricciutelli M. , Censi R. , Di Martino P.
Published: February 2015

Synopsis

Objectives

The purpose of this work was the qualitative characterization of a recently transesterification product obtained from the coconut oil in the presence of polyglycerol‐6 to produce a new PEG‐free secondary surfactant. The purpose of a secondary surfactant is to reduce the harshness of a skin cleanser.

Methods

The transesterification product was qualitatively characterized in our laboratory by flow injection analysis–atmospheric pressure chemical ionization–mass spectrometry (FIA‐APCI‐MS). The mass spectrum of the transesterification product was compared to those of the starting materials (polyglycerol and coconut oil).

Results

The analyses highlighted the disappearance of the starting oil peaks and the appearance of new peaks assignable to the reaction products, mainly corresponding to diesters of polyglycerol. Additionally, peaks of unreacted polyglycerol are present as well as peaks of cyclization products derived from the polyglycerol starting material.

Conclusions

The development of this fast and easy analytical method, requesting only few minutes to be performed, represents a very useful tool for the characterization of transesterification products during the quality control of batches under production.
Effects of a hospital‐based education programme on self‐care behaviour, care dependency and quality of life in patients with heart failure – a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Köberich Stefan , Lohrmann Christa , Mittag Oskar , Dassen Theo
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effects of a nurse‐led, hospital‐based heart failure specific education session with a three‐month telephone follow‐up on self‐care behaviour, care dependency and quality of life for patients with chronic heart failure.

Background

Patient education in patients with heart failure is able to promote heart failure‐specific self‐care, to reduce mortality, morbidity and rehospitalisation rates and to enhance quality of life, especially if heart failure education is embedded in a multidisciplinary approach. Evidence of the effect of a nurse‐led self‐care education, quality of life and care dependency in addition to standard medical treatment in Germany is lacking.

Design

Nonblinded, prospective, single‐centre, randomised controlled trial.

Method

Sixty‐four patients were allocated either to the intervention group or to the control group. Patients in the intervention group received education about heart failure self‐care with a consecutive telephone follow‐up over three months in addition to standard medical treatment. Patients in the control group received standard medical treatment only.

Results

Data of 110 patients (58 in the intervention group and 52 in the control group) with a mean age of 62 years and mean left ventricular ejection fraction of 28·2% could be analysed. Self‐care education had a significant influence on overall heart failure self‐care but not on quality of life and care dependency.

Conclusion

A single education session with a consecutive telephone follow‐up is able to improve overall self‐care behaviours but not quality of life. Care dependency was not influenced by the education session.

Relevance to clinical practice

The easy to implement and short educational intervention has a positive effect on self‐care behaviour for patients with heart failure. However, there was no effect on quality of life and care dependency. To improve quality of life and to influence care dependency, different measures have to be applied.
Adult family member experiences during an older loved one's delirium: a narrative literature review
Authors: Day Jenny , Higgins Isabel
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To provide a narrative literature review about family experiences during older person delirium.

Background

Delirium is a common and serious condition which manifests when older people are unwell. Family members of older people are likely to encounter their loved one and become involved in care during delirium.

Design

Narrative literature review.

Methods

Electronic database and Google Scholar™searches were conducted using search terms for delirium, family, experience and older people.

Results

Though family members are important partners in the care of older people, there has been little exploration of their experiences during delirium. Current literature identifies that family members experience unexpected, rapid and unpredictable changes in their older loved one, absence of the person they know, distress, not knowing about delirium nor how to help, and supportive and unsupportive relationships with health care staff.

Conclusions

Health care staff need understanding about what it means for family to have someone close to them have delirium. Without understanding, it is difficult for staff to respond with compassion, provide support and appropriately include family in the older person's care. There is a need to mitigate family distress and provide support, including information which addresses family concerns.

Relevance to clinical practice

The distress family members experience, the impact of losing connection to their loved one, and the difficulty family face in sustaining hope for their loved one's return needs to be recognised and addressed by health care staff, particularly nurses, during the older person's care.
Involving patients in understanding hospital infection control using visual methods
Authors: Wyer Mary , Jackson Debra , Iedema Rick , Hor Su‐Yin , Gilbert Gwendolyn L , Jorm Christine , Hooker Claire , O'Sullivan Matthew Vincent Neil , Carroll Katherine
Published: February 2015

Aims and Objectives

This paper explores patients' perspectives on infection prevention and control.

Background

Healthcare‐associated infections are the most frequent adverse event experienced by patients. Reduction strategies have predominantly addressed front‐line clinicians' practices; patients' roles have been less explored.

Design

Video‐reflexive ethnography.

Methods

Fieldwork undertaken at a large metropolitan hospital in Australia involved 300 hours of ethnographic observations, including 11 hours of video footage. This paper focuses on eight occasions, where video footage was shown back to patients in one‐on‐one reflexive sessions.

Findings

Viewing and discussing video footage of clinical care enabled patients to become articulate about infection risks, and to identify their own roles in reducing transmission. Barriers to detailed understandings of preventative practices and their roles included lack of conversation between patients and clinicians about infection prevention and control, and being ignored or contradicted when challenging perceived suboptimal practice. It became evident that to compensate for clinicians' lack of engagement around infection control, participants had developed a range of strategies, of variable effectiveness, to protect themselves and others. Finally, the reflexive process engendered closer scrutiny and a more critical attitude to infection control that increased patients' sense of agency.

Conclusion

This study found that patients actively contribute to their own safety. Their success, however, depends on the quality of patient–provider relationships and conversations. Rather than treating patients as passive recipients of infection control practices, clinicians can support and engage with patients' contributions towards achieving safer care.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study suggests that if clinicians seek to reduce infection rates, they must start to consider patients as active contributors to infection control. Clinicians can engage patients in conversations about practices and pay attention to patient feedback about infection risk. This will broaden clinicians' understandings of infection control risks and behaviours, and assist them to support appropriate patient self‐care behaviour.
Women's experiences of early miscarriage: implications for nursing care
Authors: Radford Eleanor J , Hughes Mark
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To investigate women's experience of early miscarriage (the first 16 weeks of pregnancy) by reviewing the literature since 1990, identifying and exploring critical themes.

Background

Early miscarriage loss accounts for 50,000 inpatient admissions per year in the UK reported in 2010. It can result in anxiety, depression, guilt, emptiness and other features of bereavement.

Design

A structured literature review of qualitative literature was undertaken to explore the evidence of women's experience of early miscarriage, and elicit common themes emerging.

Methods

A systematic electronic database search was conducted using a range of search engines. Nine papers were identified; four from the UK and one paper each from the USA, Australia, Canada, Israel and Sweden.

Results

Four predominant themes were identified from the experiences of 211 women in the nine studies: ‘What I feel’, ‘Care for me and communicate with me’, ‘Me, my baby and others’ and ‘Help me to cope with the future’.

Conclusions

Early miscarriage is a potentially devastating experience, and the diversity of experiences of women must be reflected in the provision of appropriate and sensitive nursing care.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study demonstrated a significant training need for nurses and midwives to provide women with individualised care.
Experience of pelvic floor muscle exercises among women in Taiwan: a qualitative study of improvement in urinary incontinence and sexuality
Authors: Kao Hsia‐Tzu , Hayter Mark , Hinchliff Sharron , Tsai Chuan‐Hsiu , Hsu Min‐Tao
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To gain an in‐depth understanding of women's experiences of performing pelvic floor muscle exercises for urinary incontinence and the impact on their sexuality.

Background

Urinary incontinence is not a life‐threatening disorder; however, it has been shown to have detrimental effects on quality of life in terms of psychological, social and sexual dysfunction. Pelvic floor muscle exercises is the first recommended strategy for managing mild to moderate urinary incontinence as it is noninvasive and cost effective. Pelvic floor muscle exercises reduce incontinence and strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, which positively affects sexual function in women. Currently, the data are scarce for qualitative literature regarding the subjective experiences of Taiwanese women undergoing pelvic floor muscle exercises and the impact on their urinary incontinence and sexuality.

Design

Qualitative exploratory study.

Methods

Semi‐structured in depth interviews were undertaken with twelve women who had completed a pelvic floor muscle exercises program in Taiwan. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Themes were related to Taiwanese women's initial feelings that urinary incontinence was inevitable and the effects on their sexuality. Three core themes were identified: perceptions of inevitability, developing awareness and gaining control and sexual taboo. Through developing awareness and control of their pelvic floor muscles women expressed improvement in urinary incontinence. Sexual enjoyment, body image, self confidence and sexuality were also enhanced.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor muscle exercises had a positive effect on urinary incontinence and sexuality. The findings demonstrated that sex is a taboo topic for many Taiwanese women. With the sensitive management of pelvic floor muscle exercises programs this issue can be addressed.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study raises awareness of healthcare professionals by identifying how Taiwanese women perceive pelvic floor muscles. The positive impact of pelvic floor muscle exercises upon both urinary incontinence and sexuality within the Taiwanese context are addressed. Nurses may also, with greater confidence initiate discussion of women's sexual concerns as part of managing urinary incontinence.
‘Paddling upstream’: Fathers’ involvement during pregnancy as described by expectant fathers and mothers
Authors: Widarsson Margareta , Engström Gabriella , Tydén Tanja , Lundberg Pranee , Hammar Lena Marmstål
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To describe the perspectives of expectant mothers and fathers on fathers' involvement during pregnancy.

Background

Becoming a father is a major life event and paternal involvement during pregnancy has a positive influence on the family. However, research into both expectant mothers' and fathers' perspectives on fathers' involvement during pregnancy is relatively scarce.

Design

A descriptive qualitative study was used.

Methods

Thirty expectant parents (20 women and 10 men) were interviewed either as part of one of four focus groups or in an individual interview. Qualitative content analysis was performed on the interview transcripts.

Results

A theme of ‘Paddling upstream’ emerged as an expression of the latent content of the interviews concerning perspectives on fathers' involvement. Five sub‐themes described the manifest content: trying to participate, trying to be understanding, trying to learn, trying to be a calming influence and trying to find a balanced life. Expectant parents suggested several ways to improve fathers' involvement and to meet parents' need for shared involvement.

Conclusion

Expectant mothers and fathers wanted the father to be more involved in the pregnancy. Although fathers attempted different strategies, they did not always perceive what was expected of them and encountered many barriers as they tried to navigate through this unique experience. The best support for the father was the mother. Expectant parents wanted their healthcare to include the father more thoroughly and to focus on the whole family.

Relevance to clinical practice

Prenatal care professionals can overcome barriers that prevent paternal involvement. Although fathers are not able to engage in the pregnancy on the same level as the mother, we suggest that their specific needs also be recognised through an increased awareness of gender norms in healthcare.
Characteristics of the relationship that develops from nurse‐caregiver communication during telecare
Authors: Solli Hilde , Hvalvik Sigrun , Bjørk Ida Torunn , Hellesø Ragnhild
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectives

To explore the relationship between nurses and caregivers using a web camera and web forum as the communication methods.

Background

In Norway and other European countries, there is an increased focus on ageing at home, which is aided by technology, as well as formal and informal care. The literature reveals that caregivers endure physical and mental burdens. With computer‐mediated communication, such as telecare, it is possible for nurses to provide supportive care to caregivers in their homes.

Design

An explorative design using qualitative content analysis.

Method

Six nurses and nine caregivers with residential spouses suffering from stroke or dementia were interviewed two times over a six‐month period.

Results

The nurses responded dynamically to the information they received and helped to empower the individual caregivers and to strengthen the interpersonal relationships between the caregivers. While some participants thought that meeting in a virtual room was close and intimate, others wanted to maintain a certain distance. The participants' altered their roles as the masters and receivers of knowledge and experience; this variation was based on a relationship in which mutual respect for one another and an interest in learning from one another allowed them to work together as partners to demonstrate the system and to follow‐up with new caregivers.

Conclusions

The flexibility of the service allows the possibility of engaging in a close, or to some extent, a more distant relationship, depending on the participants' attitudes towards using this type of service.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses can provide close care, support and information to caregivers who endeavour to master their everyday lives together with their sick spouses. The support seems to help the caregivers cope with their own physical and emotional problems.