bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Developing tools to unravel the biological secrets of Rosellinia necatrix, an emergent threat to woody crops
Authors: PLIEGO CLARA , LÓPEZ‐HERRERA CARLOS , RAMOS CAYO , CAZORLA FRANCISCO M.
Published: October 2011

White root rot caused by Rosellinia necatrix is one of the most destructive diseases of many woody plants in the temperate regions of the world, particularly in Europe and Asia. Recent outbreaks of R. necatrix around the globe have increased the interest in this pathogen. Although the ecology of the disease has been poorly studied, recent genetic and molecular advances have opened the way for future detailed studies of this fungus.

Taxonomy: Rosellinia necatrix Prilleux. Kingdom Fungi; subdivision Ascomycotina; class Euascomycetes; subclass Pyrenomycetes; order Sphaeriales, syn. Xylariales; family Xylariaceae; genus Rosellinia.

Identification: Fungal mycelium is present on root surfaces and under the bark, forming mycelium fans, strands or cords. A typical presence of pear‐shaped or pyriform swellings can be found above the hyphal septum (with diameters of up to 13 µm). Sclerotia are black, hard and spherical nodules, several millimetres in diameter. Black sclerotia crusts may also form on roots. On synthetic media, it forms microsclerotia: irregular rough bodies composed of a compact mass of melanized, interwoven hyphae with no differentiated cells. Chlamydospores are almost spherical (15 µm in diameter). Synnemata, also named coremia (0.5–1.5 mm in length), can be formed from sclerotia or from mycelial masses. Conidia (3–5 µm in length and 2.5–3 µm in width) are very difficult to germinate in vitro. Ascospores are monostichous, situated inside a cylindrical, long‐stalked ascus. They are ellipsoidal and cymbiform (36–46 µm in length and 5.5–6.3 µm in width).

Host range: This fungus can attack above 170 different plant hosts from 63 genera and 30 different families, including vascular plants and algae. Some are of significant economic importance, such as Coffea spp., Malus spp., Olea europaea L., Persea americana Mill., Prunus spp. and Vitis vinifera L.

Disease symptoms: Rosellinia necatrix causes white (or Dematophora) root rot, which, by aerial symptoms, shows a progressive weakening of the plant, accompanied by a decline in vigour. The leaves wilt and dry, and the tree can eventually die. White cottony mycelium and mycelial strands can be observed in the crown and on the root surface. On woody plant roots, the fungus can be located between the bark and the wood, developing typical mycelium fans, invading the whole root and causing general rotting.

Disease control: Some approaches have been attempted involving the use of tolerant plants and physical control (solarization). Chemical control in the field and biological control methods are still under development.
Management of major trauma haemorrhage: treatment priorities and controversies
Authors: Davenport Ross , Khan Sirat
Published: October 2011

The severely injured trauma patient often arrives in the emergency department bleeding, coagulopathic and in need of a blood transfusion. The diagnosis and management of these patients has vastly improved with a better understanding of acute traumatic coagulopathy (ATC). In the emergency setting, traditional laboratory coagulation screens are of limited use in the diagnosis and management of life‐threatening bleeding. Whole blood assays, such as thrombelastography (TEG) and rotational thrombelastometry (ROTEM) provide a rapid evaluation of clot formation, strength and lysis. Rapid diagnosis of ATC and aggressive haemostatic transfusion strategies utilizing early high doses of plasma are associated with improved outcomes in trauma. At present there is no accurate guide for transfusion in trauma, therefore blood and clotting products are administered on an empiric basis. Targeted transfusion therapy for major trauma haemorrhage based on comprehensive and rapid measures of coagulation e.g. TEG/ROTEM may lead to improved outcomes while optimizing blood utilization. Evidence for the clinical application of TEG and ROTEM in trauma is emerging with a number of studies evaluating their ability to diagnose coagulopathy early and facilitate goal‐directed transfusion. This review explores current controversies and best practice in the diagnosis and management of major haemorrhage in trauma.
Parental fatigue and parenting practices during early childhood: an Australian community survey
Authors: Cooklin A. R. , Giallo R. , Rose N.
Published: October 2011

Background Parenting behaviours are influenced by a range of factors, including parental functioning. Although common, the influence of parental fatigue on parenting practices is not known. The first aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between fatigue and parenting practices. The second aim was to identify parental psychosocial factors significantly associated with fatigue.

Methods A sample of 1276 Australian parents, of at least one child aged 0–5 years, completed a survey. Demographic, psychosocial (social support, coping responses) and parental sleep and self‐care information was collected. Hierarchical regression was performed to assess the contribution of fatigue (modified Fatigue Assessment Scale) to parental practices (warmth, irritability and involvement), and parenting experiences (Parenting Stress Index, Parenting Sense of Competence Scale). Hierarchical multiple regression assessed the contribution of a range of parental sleep, psychosocial (social support, coping responses) and self‐care variables to fatigue when demographic characteristics were held constant.

Results Higher fatigue was significantly associated with lower parental competence (β=−0.17,P< 0.005), greater parenting stress (β= 0.21,P< 0.005) and more irritability in parent–child interactions (β= 0.11,P< 0.005). Several psychosocial characteristics were associated with higher parental fatigue, including inadequate social support, poorer diet, poorer sleep quality and ineffective coping styles including self‐blame and behaviour disengagement.

Conclusions Fatigue is common, and results suggest that fatigue contributes to adverse parental practices and experiences. However, possible risk factors for higher fatigue were identified in this study, indicating opportunities for intervention, management and support for parents.
Molecular characterization of a novel p.R118C mutation in the insulin receptor gene from patients with severe insulin resistance
Authors: Alzahrani Ali S. , Zou Minjing , Baitei Essa Y. , Parhar Ranjit S. , Al‐Kahtani Nora , Raef Hussein , Almahfouz Abdulraof , Amartey John K. , Al‐Rijjal Roua , Hammami Rakad , Meyer Brian F. , Al‐Mohanna Futwan A. , Shi Yufei
Published: October 2011

Context  Mutations of the insulin receptor gene (INSR) can cause genetic syndromes associated with severe insulin resistance.

Objectives  We aimed to analyse INSR mutations in Saudi patients with severe insulin resistance.

Design  Ten patients with Type A insulin resistance syndrome from five unrelated Saudi families were investigated. The entire coding region of INSR was sequenced. The founder effect was assessed by microsatellite haplotype analysis. The functional effect of the mutation was investigated by in vitro functional assays.

Results  A novel biallelic c.433 C>T (p.R118C) mutation was detected in all patients. The c.433 C>T (p.R118C) sequence variation was not found in 100 population controls. The arginine residue at position 118 is located in the ligand‐binding domain of INSR and is highly conserved across species. Microsatellite haplotype analysis of these patients indicated that p.R118C was a founder mutation created approximately 2900 years ago. The wild‐type and mutant R118C INSR were cloned and expressed in CHO cells for functional analysis. Specific insulin binding to the mutant receptor was reduced by 83% as compared to wild‐type (WT), although the mutant receptor was processed and expressed on the cell surface. Insulin‐mediated receptor autophosphorylation was also significantly reduced in CHOR118C cells.

Conclusions  Biallelic c.433 C>T (p.R118C) mutation of INSR causes significant damage to insulin binding and insulin‐mediated signal transduction. p.R118C is a founder mutation frequently present in the Saudi patients with severe insulin resistance.
Robust immune response elicited by a novel and unique Mycobacterium tuberculosis protein using an optimized DNA/protein heterologous prime/boost protocol
Authors: Cayabyab Mark J. , Kashino Suely S. , Campos‐Neto Antonio
Published: October 2011

An efficacious tuberculosis (TB) vaccine will probably need to induce both CD4 and CD8 T‐cell responses specific to a protective Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigen(s). To achieve this broad cellular immune response we tested a heterologous DNA/protein combination vaccine strategy. We used a purified recombinant protein preparation of a unique M. tuberculosis antigen (rMT1721) found in the urine of TB patients, an optimized plasmid DNA expressing this protein (DNA‐MT1721), and a Toll‐like receptor 4 agonist adjuvant. We found that priming mice with DNA‐MT1721 and subsequently boosting with rMT1721 elicited high titres of specific IgG1 and IgG2a antibodies as well as high magnitude and polyfunctional CD4+ T‐cell responses. However, no detectable CD8+ T‐cell response was observed using this regimen of immunization. In contrast, both CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell responses were detected after a prime/boost vaccination regimen using rMT1721 as the priming antigen and DNA‐MT1721 as the boosting immunogen. These findings support the exploration of heterologous DNA/protein immunization strategies in vaccine development against TB and possibly other infectious diseases.
Microevolutionary relationships between phylogeographical history, climate change and morphological variability in the common vole (Microtus arvalis) across France
Authors: Renvoisé Elodie , Montuire Sophie , Richard Yves , Quéré Jean‐Pierre , Gerber Sylvain , Cucchi Thomas , Chateau‐Smith Carmela , Tougard Christelle
Published: October 2011

Aim  In this study, we analyse microevolutionary processes in common voles (Microtus arvalis) through the investigation of tooth morphological structure, in order to assess the relative impact of climate and phylogeographical history. Microevolutionary studies have shown that climate change may play a role in both population phylogeography and phenotypic differentiation. However, relatively little is known about the precise relationship between phylogeography and phenotypic variability and about how organisms respond to climate change.

Location  France, from sea level to the Alps (5 to > 2300 m a.s.l.).

Methods  This morphological analysis is based on first lower molar measurements from 16 geographically distinct common vole populations. Size and shape components are assessed separately. Population structure patterns are characterized using canonical variate analysis. We use phylogenetic analyses of two regions of mitochondrial DNA (the control region and the cytochrome b gene) to infer genetic structure. We calculate climate parameters from temperature and precipitation data. We investigate the influence of climate, geography and phylogeographical history on the phenotype using (1) multiple regression tests, (2) pairwise comparison of observation‐by‐variable matrices, and (3) a correlation method designed to compare three matrices.

Results  All populations were clearly structured, whatever the dataset. Neither size nor shape variation was correlated with climate parameters, but tooth shape was strongly correlated with both genetic structure and geographical distance.

Main conclusions  In French Microtus arvalis populations, molar shape differentiation is clearly associated with both phylogeographical history and geographical distance. Population phylogeographical history has a greater relevance than climate in accounting for variation in tooth morphology.
A realignment of marine biogeographic provinces with particular reference to fish distributions
Authors: Briggs John C. , Bowen Brian W.
Published: October 2011

Marine provinces, founded on contrasting floras or faunas, have been recognized for more than 150 years but were not consistently defined by endemism until 1974. At that time, provinces were based on at least a 10% endemism and nested within biogeographic regions that covered large geographic areas with contrasting biotic characteristics. Over time, some minor adjustments were made but the overall arrangement remained essentially unaltered. In many provinces, data on endemism were still not available, or were available only for the most widely studied vertebrates (fishes), a problem that is ongoing. In this report we propose a realignment for three reasons. First, recent works have provided new information to modify or redefine the various divisions and to describe new ones, including the Mid‐Atlantic Ridge, Southern Ocean, Tropical East Pacific and Northeast Pacific. Second, phylogeographic studies have demonstrated genetic subdivisions within and between species that generally corroborated provinces based on taxonomic partitions, with a notable exception at the Indian–Pacific oceanic boundary. Third, the original separation of the warm‐temperate provinces from the adjoining tropical ones has distracted from their close phylogenetic relationships. Here we propose uniting warm‐temperate and tropical regions into a single warm region within each ocean basin, while still recognizing provinces within the warm‐temperate and tropical zones. These biogeographic subdivisions are based primarily on fish distribution but utilize other marine groups for comparison. They are intended to demonstrate the evolutionary relationships of the living marine biota, and to serve as a framework for the establishment of smaller ecological units in a conservation context.
Phylogenetic and phenotypic structure among Banksia communities in south‐western Australia
Authors: Merwin Laura , He Tianhua , Lamont Byron B.
Published: October 2011

Aim  Phylogenetic and phenotypic patterns among coexisting banksias (Banksia, Proteaceae) in the infertile, fire‐prone landscapes of south‐western Australia were examined for evidence of community structuring. It was expected that closely related species would be spatially clustered (underdispersed) as a consequence of widespread recent speciation, strong edaphic fidelity and low dispersability. We also expected that edaphic filtering would result in phenotypic clustering of traits related to habitat specialization and that competitive exclusion among closely related species with similar regeneration biology and growth form would result in phenotypic overdispersion of these latter traits.

Location  Southwest Australian Floristic Region (SWAFR).

Methods  Based on published data for coexistence (richness and frequency) of Banksia species at 40 sites in the three floristic provinces, phylogenetic, soil type and morphological mean pairwise distance and mean nearest taxon distance were calculated for each site and compared with null communities. Patterns of co‐occurrence were examined at the local and subregional (provincial) scales.

Results  Of the 40 sites assessed, 21–30 displayed phylogenetic clustering of Banksia species (5–11 significantly) such that, overall, co‐occurring taxa were more closely related than expected by chance. Banksias in the Transitional Rainfall and Southeast Coastal Provinces were more likely to display phylogenetic clustering than in the High Rainfall Province. A significant trend for phylogenetic clustering associated with edaphic specialization (27–30 sites) was observed, as well as a significant trend for phenotypic overdispersion associated with growth form (25–28 sites). Results for regeneration biology depended on the metric used.

Main conclusions  We demonstrate spatial clustering of closely related banksias at the local and provincial scales, consistent with their restricted distribution (recent widespread speciation, patchy habitat availability and limited dispersability) in this geologically old and stable region. The clustering of closely related species may also be a consequence of habitat filtering linked to edaphic fidelity in the SWAFR flora, while overdispersion in growth form suggests that functional divergence favours coexistence in Banksia communities.
Study on factors influencing recrudescent time of postdischarge patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Wang Lan , Zang Xiao‐Ying , Zhang Qing , Liu Su‐Yan , Shen Yue‐Hao , Zhao Yue
Published: October 2011

Aim.  (1) To explore the prognostic factors of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. (2) To calculate the recrudescence time (the time from discharge to acute exacerbation again) of postdischarge patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

Background.  Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is an airflow limitation illness that is preventable and treatable. To find out the prognostic factors will make effective postdischarge care, which can help patients reduce readmission times and prolong recrudescent time.

Design.  Cohort study.

Method.  From November 2007–October 2008, 136 patients with acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were analysed by gender, age, career, education level, body mass index, smoking, oxygen therapy, drug‐taken compliance, respiratory function exercise, blood gas, lung function, six‐minute walking test and degree of dyspnoea. Factors related to prognosis were analysed by univariate and multivariate Cox regression. Kaplan–Meier method was used for survival analysis and log‐rank test for comparison of survival curve.

Results.  A total of 121 patients recrudesced up to October 2009. Recrudescence rate was 7·35% in a month, 25·00% in three months, 55·62% in six months and 88·23% in 12 months. Higher drug‐taken compliance and respiratory function exercise were the factors influencing patients’ acute exacerbation (p < 0·05). The median recrudescence time of drug taken or not was six and four months, and doing respiratory function exercise or not was eight and six months.

Conclusion.  Respiratory function exercise and higher drug‐taken compliance can prolong recrudescence time and reduce recrudescence rate.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Clinical nurses who know more risk factors about acute exacerbation of patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease can provide effective discharge planning, which will increase patients’ quality of life and decrease mortality.
Brain reinforcement system function is ghrelin dependent: studies in the rat using pharmacological fMRI and intracranial self‐stimulation
Authors: Wellman Paul J. , Clifford P. Shane , Rodriguez Juan A. , Hughes Samuel , Di Francesco Carla , Melotto Sergio , Tessari Michela , Corsi Mauro , Bifone Angelo , Gozzi Alessandro
Published: October 2011

Ghrelin (GHR) is an orexigenic gut peptide that interacts with brain ghrelin receptors (GHR‐Rs) to promote food intake. Recent research suggests that GHR acts as a modulator of motivated behavior, suggesting a direct influence of GHR on brain reinforcement circuits. In the present studies, we investigated the role of GHR and GHR‐Rs in brain reinforcement function. Pharmacological magnetic resonance imaging was used to spatially resolve the functional activation produced by systemic administration of an orexigenic GHR dose. The imaging data revealed a focal activation of a network of subcortical structures that comprise brain reinforcement circuits—ventral tegmental area, lateral hypothalamus and nucleus accumbens. We next analyzed whether brain reinforcement circuits require functional GHR‐Rs. To this purpose, wild‐type (WT) or mutant rats sustaining N‐ethyl‐N‐nitrosourea‐induced knockout of GHR‐Rs (GHR‐R null rats) were implanted with stimulating electrodes aimed at the lateral hypothalamus, shaped to respond for intracranial self‐stimulation (ICSS) and then tested using a rate‐frequency procedure to examine ICSS response patterns. WT rats were readily shaped using stimulation intensities of 75 µA, whereas GHR‐R null rats required 300 µA for ICSS shaping. No differences in rate‐frequency curves were noted for WT rats at 75 µA and GHR‐R null rats at 300 µA. When current intensity was lowered to 100 µA, GHR‐R null rats did not respond for ICSS. Taken collectively, these data suggest that systemic GHR can activate mesolimbic dopaminergic areas, and highlight a facilitative role of GHR‐Rs on the activity of brain reinforcement systems.
Familial aggregation of allergen‐specific sensitization and asthma
Authors: Kurzius‐Spencer Margaret , Guerra Stefano , Sherrill Duane L. , Halonen Marilyn , Elston Robert C. , Martinez Fernando D.
Published: October 2011

To cite this article: Kurzius‐Spencer M, Guerra S, Sherrill DL, Halonen M, Elston RC, Martinez FD. Familial aggregation of allergen‐specific sensitization and asthma. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2012: 23: 21–27.

Background:  Familial aggregation of specific response to allergens and asthma adjusted for age and sensitization to multiple allergens was assessed in two large population cohorts.

Methods:  Allergen skin prick tests (SPTs) were administered to 1151 families in the Tucson Children’s Respiratory Study (CRS) and 435 families in the Tucson Epidemiological Study of Airway Obstructive Disease (TESAOD). Sensitization was defined by wheal size ≥3 mm; physician‐diagnosed asthma at age ≥8 yr was based on questionnaires. Using s.a.g.e. 6.1 software assoc and fcor, familial correlations of crude and adjusted phenotypes were evaluated.

Results:  Crude estimates of parent–offspring (P–O) and sibling correlations were statistically significant for most allergens, ranging from 0.03 to 0.29. After adjusting for age of assessment and ‘other atopy’ (SPT‐positive response to additional allergens), correlations were reduced by 14–71%. Sibling correlations for specific response to allergens were consistently higher than P–O correlations, but this difference was significant only for dust mite and weed mix in the TESAOD population. Familial correlation for atopic status (any positive SPTs vs. none) tended to be higher than for specific allergens. Asthma, with and without adjustment, showed greater familial correlation than either specific or general SPT response and significantly higher sibling correlation in TESAOD than in CRS, probably due to the older age of the siblings and the longer period of ascertainment.

Conclusions:  Significant familial aggregation of specific response to allergen after adjustment for other atopy appears to reflect a genetic propensity toward atopy, dependent on shared familial exposures. Results also suggest that inheritance of asthma is independent of atopic sensitization.
Adjunctive nutraceuticals with standard pharmacotherapies in bipolar disorder: a systematic review of clinical trials
Authors: Sarris Jerome , Mischoulon David , Schweitzer Isaac
Published: October 2011

Sarris J, Mischoulon D, Schweitzer I. Adjunctive nutraceuticals with standard pharmacotherapies in bipolar disorder: a systematic review of clinical trials. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 454–465. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  Studies using augmentation of pharmacotherapies with nutraceuticals in bipolar disorder (BD) have been conducted and preliminary evidence in many cases appears positive. To date, however, no specialized systematic review of this area has been conducted. We present the first systematic review of clinical trials using nutrient‐based nutraceuticals in combination with standard pharmacotherapies to treat BD. A subsequent aim of this report was to discuss posited underlying mechanisms of action.

Methods:  PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library databases, and grey literature were searched during mid‐2010 for human clinical trials in English using nutraceuticals such as omega‐3, N‐acetyl cysteine (NAC), inositol, and vitamins and minerals, in combination with pharmacotherapies to treat bipolar mania and bipolar depression. A review of the results including an effect size analysis (Cohen’s d) was subsequently conducted.

Results:  In treating bipolar depression, positive evidence with large effect sizes were found for NAC (d = 1.04) and a chelated mineral and vitamin formula (d = 1.70). On the outcome of bipolar mania, several nutraceuticals reduced mania with strong clinical effects: a chelated mineral formula (d = 0.83), L‐tryptophan (d = 1.47), magnesium (d = 1.44), folic acid (d = 0.40), and branched‐chain amino acids (d = 1.60). Mixed, but mainly positive, evidence was found for omega‐3 for bipolar depression, while no evidentiary support was found for use in mania. No significant effect on BD outcome scales was found for inositol (possibly due to small samples).

Conclusions:  BD treatment outcomes may potentially be improved by additional use of certain nutraceuticals with conventional pharmacotherapies. However, caution should be extended in interpreting the large effects of several isolated studies, as they have not yet been replicated in larger trials.
Pediatric bipolar spectrum disorder and ADHD: comparison and comorbidity in the LAMS clinical sample
Authors: Arnold L Eugene , Demeter Christine , Mount Katherine , Frazier Thomas W , Youngstrom Eric A , Fristad Mary , Birmaher Boris , Findling Robert L , Horwitz Sarah M , Kowatch Robert , Axelson David A
Published: October 2011

Arnold LE, Demeter C, Mount K, Frazier TW, Youngstrom EA, Fristad M, Birmaher B, Findling RL, Horwitz SM, Kowatch R, Axelson DA. Pediatric bipolar spectrum disorder and ADHD: comparison and comorbidity in the LAMS clinical sample. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 509–521. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objective:  To compare attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), bipolar spectrum disorders (BPSDs), and comorbidity in the Longitudinal Assessment of Manic Symptoms (LAMS) study.

Methods:  Children ages 6–12 were recruited at first visit to clinics associated with four universities. A BPSD diagnosis required that the patient exhibit episodes. Four hypotheses were tested: (i) children with BPSD + ADHD would have a younger age of mood symptom onset than those with BPSD but no ADHD; (ii) children with BPSD + ADHD would have more severe ADHD and BPSD symptoms than those with only one disorder; (iii) global functioning would be more impaired in children with ADHD + BPSD than in children with either diagnosis alone; and (iv) the ADHD + BPSD group would have more additional diagnoses.

Results:  Of 707 children, 421 had ADHD alone, 45 had BPSD alone, 117 had both ADHD and BPSD, and 124 had neither. Comorbidity (16.5%) was slightly less than expected by chance (17.5%). Age of mood symptom onset was not different between the BPSD + ADHD group and the BPSD‐alone group. Symptom severity increased and global functioning decreased with comorbidity. Comorbidity with other disorders was highest for the ADHD + BPSD group, but higher for the ADHD‐alone than the BPSD‐alone group. Children with BPSD were four times as likely to be hospitalized (22%) as children with ADHD alone.

Conclusions:  The high rate of BPSD in ADHD reported by some authors may be better explained as a high rate of both disorders in child outpatient settings rather than ADHD being a risk factor for BPSD. Co‐occurrence of the two disorders is associated with poorer global functioning, greater symptom severity, and more additional comorbidity than for either single disorder.
Beating Bipolar: exploratory trial of a novel internet‐based psychoeducational treatment for bipolar disorder
Authors: Smith Daniel J , Griffiths Emily , Poole Ria , di Florio Arianna , Barnes Emma , Kelly Mark J , Craddock Nick , Hood Kerenza , Simpson Sharon
Published: October 2011

Smith DJ, Griffiths E, Poole R, di Florio A, Barnes E, Kelly MJ, Craddock N, Hood K, Simpson S. Beating Bipolar: exploratory trial of a novel internet‐based psychoeducational treatment for bipolar disorder. Bipolar Disord 2011: 13: 571–577. © 2011 The Authors. Journal compilation © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Objectives:  Psychoeducational approaches are promising interventions for the long‐term management of bipolar disorder. In consultation with professionals, patients, and their families we have developed a novel web‐based psychoeducational intervention for bipolar disorder called Beating Bipolar. We undertook a preliminary exploratory randomized trial to examine efficacy, feasibility and acceptability.

Methods:  This was an exploratory randomized controlled trial of Beating Bipolar (current controlled trials registration number: ISRCTN81375447). The control arm was treatment‐as‐usual and the a priori primary outcome measure was quality of life [measured by the brief World Health Organization Quality of Life (WHOQOL–BREF) scale]. Secondary outcomes included psychosocial functioning, insight, depressive and manic symptoms and relapse, and use of healthcare resources. Fifty participants were randomized to either the Beating Bipolar intervention plus treatment‐as‐usual or just treatment‐as‐usual. The intervention was delivered over a four‐month period and outcomes were assessed six months later.

Results:  There was no significant difference between the intervention and control groups on the primary outcome measure (total WHOQOL–BREF score) but there was a modest improvement within the psychological subsection of the WHOQOL–BREF for the intervention group relative to the control group. There were no significant differences between the groups on any of the secondary outcome measures.

Conclusions:  Beating Bipolar is potentially a safe and engaging intervention which can be delivered remotely to large numbers of patients with bipolar disorder at relatively low cost. It may have a modest effect on psychological quality of life. Further work is required to establish the impact of this intervention on insight, knowledge, treatment adherence, self‐efficacy and self‐management skills.
Evaluating the efficacy of neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) seed oil treatment for Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. against Pycnoporus sanguineus (L. ex Fr.) Murr. using static bending strength properties
Authors: Erakhrumen A. A.
Published: October 2011

In this study, split‐bamboo (Bambusa vulgaris Schrad. ex J.C. Wendl.) were converted to specimens for static bending strength tests (SBST) in conformity with modified ASTM D‐143–94 and treated by soaking two sets differently in mechanically extracted neem (Azadirachta indica A. Juss) seed oil at an ambient room temperature of 25 ± 2°C for 24 h (A) and 60°C for 4 h (B) with samples not treated with the oil as control. The oil‐treated (soaked and heat treated) and those that were not oil‐treated (control samples) were all inoculated with cultured Pycnoporus sanguineus (L. ex Fr.) Murr., incubated for 12 weeks and then subjected to SBST. Results obtained showed that Modulus of Rupture was lower for control (7941 ± 46 N cm−2) but higher for A (8954 ± 55 N cm−2) and B (8129 ± 70 N cm−2). Modulus of Elasticity was also lower for control (677 116 ± 3070 N cm−2) and higher for A (725 016 ± 3468 N cm−2) and B (724 391 ± 3204 N cm−2). Energy at maximum load, load at yield and extension at yield also followed similar trend. Data obtained were statistically analysed using basic descriptive tools and anova, while Fishers’ least significant difference was applied as a follow‐up test to compare means (p < 0.05).
Methyl eugenol and pre‐release diet improve mating performance of young Bactrocera dorsalis and Bactrocera correcta males
Authors: Orankanok W. , Chinvinijkul S. , Sawatwangkhoung A. , Pinkaew S. , Orankanok S.
Published: October 2011

The objective of this extensive series of experiments, involving more than 2800 field cage tests with potted mango trees, was to assess pre‐release supplements to enhance the mating success of sterile male Bactrocera dorsalis and Bactrocera correcta. We examined the effects of different pre‐release diets and methyl eugenol (ME), both independently and in combination. Tests were carried out more than 15 and 18 days for B. dorsalis and B. correcta, respectively, each day increasing the age of sterile flies. To evaluate the effect of different pre‐release diets on males, no‐choice mating tests were conducted with sterile males of increasing age and mature sterile females. Sterile males fed up to 2 days of age on sugar–yeast hydrolysate combinations achieved significantly more matings than males fed only water in B. dorsalis and more matings than males fed only sugar, only yeast hydrolysate or only water in B. correcta. To examine the effect of ME on mating performance, 2‐, 3‐, 4‐ or 5‐day‐old sterile males were given or not given access to ME for 1 h, followed by the sugar–protein diet until the day of the mating test. Mating performance tests were carried out with ME‐exposed and non‐exposed sterile males competing with mature wild males for wild females. Results showed a significant mating advantage of ME‐exposed over non‐exposed sterile males, although at younger ages they were still less competitive than wild males. The interaction of sugar–yeast hydrolysate diet and ME as pre‐release treatments for 2‐ and 3‐day‐old sterile males was assessed in terms of male sexual competitiveness. Overall, the combination showed an additive effect on increased mating success in B. dorsalis sterile males when competing a wild males for wild females, while in B. correcta males the drastic improvement in mating success was mainly linked to the ME exposure.
Inheritance of resistance to Gibberella ear rot and deoxynivalenol contamination in five flint maize crosses
Authors: Martin Matthias , Dhillon Baldev S. , Miedaner Thomas , Melchinger Albrecht E.
Published: October 2011

With 1 figure and 2 tables

Gibberella ear rot (GER) of maize caused by Fusarium graminearum leads to contamination of grains with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON), thus reducing the quality of food and feed. A generation means analysis was conducted to estimate gene effects influencing the resistance to GER and DON contamination in flint maize germplasm adapted to Central Europe. Five crosses of two resistant and two susceptible flint inbred lines were developed, and each cross comprised both parent lines (P1, P2) as well as the F1 and F2 generation and the first backcross to both parents (BC1‐P1, BC1‐P2). All entries were grown in four environments and artificially inoculated with F. graminearum. There was a prevalence of additive gene action, while significant dominance effects were found in only one cross for resistance to GER, but in four crosses for resistance to DON contamination. Owing to the prevalence of additive gene action, the prospects are good to improve the resistance of the flint germplasm and to accumulate more favourable gene combinations in future breeding lines.
Andrographolide and its analogues: versatile bioactive molecules for combating inflammation and cancer
Authors: Lim Jonathan Chee Woei , Chan Tze Khee , Ng David SW , Sagineedu Sreenivasa R , Stanslas Johnson , Wong WS Fred
Published: October 2011

1. Andrographis paniculata (Burm. f) Nees, commonly known as ‘king of bitters’, is a herbaceous plant belonging to the Family Acanthaceae. It has been widely used for centuries in Asian countries like China, India, Thailand and Malaysia for the treatment of sore throat, flu and upper respiratory tract infections.

2. Andrographolide, 14‐deoxy‐11,12‐didehydroandrographolide and neoandrographolide are examples of the major labdane diterpenoids isolated from A. paniculata. These bioactive molecules have exhibited varying degrees of anti‐inflammatory and anticancer activities in both in vitro and in vivo experimental models of inflammation and cancer.

3. Extensive libraries of andrographolide analogues have been synthesised mainly by modifying the α,β‐unsaturated γ‐butyrolactone moiety, the two double bonds Δ8,(17) and Δ12,(13) and the three hydroxyls at C‐3 (secondary), C‐14 (allylic) and C‐19 (primary). Many of these synthetic analogues exhibit superior anticancer activity over the naturally occurring andrographolides.

4. Andrographolide and its derivatives have been shown to have anti‐inflammatory effects in experimental models of asthma, stroke and arthritis, as well as in patients with upper respiratory tract infections. Andrographolide reduces the production of cytokines, chemokines, adhesion molecules, nitric oxide and lipid mediators, probably via inhibition of the nuclear factor (NF)‐κB signalling pathway.

5. The anticancer mechanisms for andrographolide include inhibition of Janus tyrosine kinases–signal transducers and activators of transcription, phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase and NF‐κB signalling pathways, suppression of heat shock protein 90, cyclins and cyclin‐dependent kinases, metalloproteinases and growth factors, and the induction of tumour suppressor proteins p53 and p21, leading to inhibition of cancer cell proliferation, survival, metastasis and angiogenesis.

6. Andrographolide drug discovery is a promising strategy for the development of a novel class of anti‐inflammatory and anticancer drugs.
Age at orchidopexy as an indicator of the quality of regional child health services
Authors: Bruijnen Christine JP , Vogels Helen DE , Beasley Spencer W
Published: October 2011

Early treatment for primary undescended testis (UDT) is necessary to prevent testicular degeneration and improve fertility. The general recommended age for orchidopexy is before 2 years of age. Comparing the age distribution of orchidopexy between different services may give an indirect indication of the quality of the child health services, since timely diagnosis and referral will lead to boys undergoing orchidopexy at the optimal age. This paper reviews the age distribution of boys having orchidopexies for UDT between 1997 and 2006 in the South Island of New Zealand and the state of Victoria, Australia: 64.2% of boys on the South Island and 48.0% of boys in Victoria had orchidopexies before the age of 5. There was a considerable difference in the proportions of children from 0 to 4 years and from 10 to 14 years between the two regions. No distinct trend in age was seen in either population during the period reviewed. These results show that many boys do not receive treatment for UDT at the optimal age. Age at orchidopexy may be an indicator of the quality (in terms of diagnosis, access and timeliness) of a region's paediatric surgical service and may identify where attention should be paid if earlier diagnosis and referral is to be achieved.
A case of multicentric Castleman's disease with membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 3‐like lesion
Authors: Nagai Kei , Usui Joichi , Noguchi Kazuyuki , Unai Kei , Hiwatashi Akira , Arakawa Yoh , Togashi Amane , Morito Naoki , Saito Chie , Yoh Keigyou , Tsuruoka Syuichi , Kojima Hiroshi , Aita Kumi , Nagata Michio , Yamagata Kunihiro
Published: October 2011

Renal involvement is a significant complication of multicentric Castleman's disease (MCD) and various glomerular involvements have been reported. A 45‐year‐old Japanese man presented with persistent proteinuria, with lymphadenopathy and hypergammaglobulinemia. He had been diagnosed 4 years previously with MCD. As his renal impairment had progressed to renal failure, he underwent a renal biopsy. Histology revealed diffuse and global membranous lesions with large and heterogeneous epimembranous deposits. In addition, mesangial cell proliferation and focal extracapillary lesions were found. Under immunofluorescence, granular staining for anti‐IgG, IgG1, IgG2 and IgA was strongly positive in the capillary loop, and weakly positive in the mesangium. As such, there was a diversity of histological features. Our perspective with regard to pathogenesis is that the formation of the immune‐complex contributed to the membranoproliferative glomerulonephritis type 3‐like lesion. This histological multiform with MCD is valuable for increasing our understanding of the mechanism for onset of immune‐complex glomerular deposition and cellular proliferation of glomerulonephritis.
Investigating sentence processing and language segmentation in explaining children's performance on a sentence‐span task
Authors: Mainela‐Arnold Elina , Misra Maya , Miller Carol , Poll Gerard H. , Park Ji Sook
Published: October 2011

Background: Children with poor language abilities tend to perform poorly on verbal working memory tasks. This result has been interpreted as evidence that limitations in working memory capacity may interfere with the development of a mature linguistic system. However, it is possible that language abilities, such as the efficiency of sentence processing and the ability to segment language, directly influence performance on common working memory tasks.

Aims: This study investigated the possible roles of sentence‐processing efficiency and the ability to segment language in children's performance on a verbal working memory task.

Methods & Procedures: Participants were 37 children (aged 6;2–13;7) with varying oral language and reading abilities. Children completed a sentence‐span task to assess working memory: the Competing Language Processing Task (CLPT). In the CLPT, children determine the truth value of sentences while maintaining sentence final words in memory. Sentence‐processing efficiency was evaluated by measuring response latencies to CLPT sentence veracity judgments outside the context of the CLPT. The Elision and Blending Words subtests of the Comprehensive Test of Phonological Processing were used to measure the ability to segment and combine units of language.

Outcomes & Results: Children's ability to segment words into smaller units (Elision) was a significant predictor of word recall on the CLPT, which is commonly assumed to reflect working memory capacity. Sentence processing latency did not reach significance as a unique predictor.

Conclusions & Implications: Individual differences on the sentence‐span task are partly explained by the ability to segment language into smaller units. Future studies should further consider the metalinguistic and metacognitive demands of tasks used to measure working memory. If metalinguistic abilities directly impact performance on working memory tasks, the utility of working memory theories in explaining individual differences in language abilities is reduced. Inferences that link ‘working memory capacity’ to language ability become circular. One clinical implication of such a result would be that appropriate intervention strategies may not involve focusing on working memory capacity, but rather on building language skills, including metalinguistic knowledge, which in turn should directly improve children's processing capacities.
Exchange students crossing language boundaries in clinical nursing practice
Authors: Myhre K.
Published: October 2011

MYHRE K. (2011) Exchange students crossing language boundaries in clinical nursing practice. International Nursing Review58, 428–433

Aim:  This article examines challenges and learning outcomes for nursing students from a Central European university of applied sciences who completed 3 months of clinical practice in Norway. The clinical practice was supervised in English by Norwegian nurses and nursing teachers. English is not the primary language in any of the countries.

Background:  Increases in global migration have contributed to the need for an international dimension in nursing education. Personal mobility is a crucial part of the European Union's goal of becoming a knowledge society. Clinically based experiences pose challenges that are additional to and often more complex than traditional course‐based experiences. Students who come from a non‐English‐speaking country for clinical practice in Norway face challenges regarding language. Accepting incoming students is a way of achieving higher quality and more relevant education in nursing.

Findings:  The study shows that clinical practice in a foreign country gives added value compared with clinical practice at home. Greater self‐confidence and understanding of core concepts in nursing is described by the participants. Language differences are not regarded as a problem but as a way of developing personal and professional competence. The ability to compare healthcare systems in the two counties is important in developing competencies in nursing.
Many paths lead to nursing: factors influencing students' perceptions of nursing
Authors: Cowin L.S. , Johnson M.
Published: October 2011

COWIN L.S. & JOHNSON M. (2011) Many paths lead to nursing: factors influencing students' perceptions of nursing. International Nursing Review58, 413–419

Background:  A diverse group of students is being recruited to nursing programmes worldwide, although little research has identified the effect of this diversity. Contemporary knowledge of the qualities of nurses and how they vary with demographic and other factors may assist in the retention of nursing students.

Aim:  The aim of this study is to explore student nurses' perceptions of the qualities of nurses and how these differ with age, country of birth, gender, healthcare experience and mode of entry to the nursing programme.

Methods:  Using a descriptive comparative design, 676 nursing students in their first week of a Bachelor of Nursing programme participated (77% response). Participants completed a survey noting demographic data such as age, gender, healthcare experience, country of birth, nursing programme entry method and attributes of nurses from the valid and reliable Qualities of Nursing Scale (QoN).

Results:  Overall, the students confirmed their agreement with the 12 items of the QoN and rated good listening skills as the most important quality for a nurse rather than Caring or Helping. Male participants and participants born overseas demonstrated the lowest mean scores on most qualities, suggesting less agreement with the qualities.

Discussion:  The recruitment of students to university needs to continue to support disparate entry pathways. Students with more life experience (older students) or health experience may be more likely to complete nursing courses and to be retained within health services. Qualities of nurses may be changing to reflect modern perceptions of nurses with a shift away from the focus on caring.