bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A comparison of micellar casein and β‐casein as sources of basic peptides through tryptic hydrolysis and their enrichment using two‐stage ultrafiltration
Authors: POST ANTONIE E , SAMPELS HANNA , HOLDER ALINE , HINRICHS JÖRG
Published: June 2012

For the application of functional peptides in innovative products, these peptides have to be individually available. This may be accomplished by a well‐considered combination of a pure protein precursor, a selective cleaving enzyme, and an advanced separation technology. In this proof‐of‐principle approach, micellar casein and β‐casein were subjected to tryptic hydrolysis and the generated casein peptides were identified and characterised. The basic target peptides, β‐casein f(177‐183) and β‐casein f(170‐176), were then enriched. A permeate containing 35% of the target peptides was produced after two‐stage ultrafiltration of micellar casein tryptic hydrolysate. In comparison, enrichment up to 58% was achieved starting from β‐casein tryptic hydrolysate.
Naturally occurring 137Cs, 90Sr and 226Ra radionuclides in raw milk in the Sibiu province of Romania
Authors: MIHAELA TITA , OTTO KETNEY , OVIDIU TITA
Published: June 2012

Milk is a sensitive indicator of the levels of contamination existing in the environment following nuclear incidents, for example at Chernobyl 1986 (Ukraine) and the most recent one in 2011 in Fukushima (Japan). The levels of three radionuclides, caesium 137Cs, strontium 90Sr and radium 226Ra, were determined in cow’s milk from various locations of Sibiu county from 2010 to 2011. The results were compared with the results taken after the explosion at Chernobyl in 1986. The values were within normal limits with insignificant increases of the milk that was collected in the area of Copşa‐Mică and Sibiu.
SENCOs: vanguards or in vain?
Authors: Lindqvist Gunilla
Published: June 2012

In Sweden today, special educational needs coordinators (SENCOs) are educated at universities to help resolve educational problems related to children in need of special support at three levels, that is, the organisational level, the classroom level and the individual level. Before the education of SENCOs was created in the early 1990s, special teachers were the occupational group that worked primarily on an individual level. Children's school problems were then seen as individual deficits. SENCOs can be seen as vanguards in changing an educational system from primarily focusing on an individual perspective to a broader focus on the entire learning environment. How has the occupational role of SENCOs affected schools? The overall aim of this study is to investigate possible changes within a school system when the introduction of a new occupational group, SENCOs, challenges established structures. More specifically, this paper studies how different occupational groups view where and in what ways SENCOs work and should work. Three different questionnaires are the basis of this analysis of SENCOs' present situation within the Swedish educational system. A number of interesting findings were detected in this study. For example, several occupational groups respond that SENCOs should work with individually taught special education. Meanwhile, a pattern emerges in which SENCOs seem to have partly established a new work role. However, little is known about how these changes affect children in need of special support.
Harnessing pain heterogeneity and RNA transcriptome to identify blood‐based pain biomarkers: a novel correlational study design and bioinformatics approach in a graded chronic constriction injury model
Authors: Grace Peter M. , Hurley Daniel , Barratt Daniel T. , Tsykin Anna , Watkins Linda R. , Rolan Paul E. , Hutchinson Mark R.
Published: June 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 976–994.

A quantitative, peripherally accessible biomarker for neuropathic pain has great potential to improve clinical outcomes. Based on the premise that peripheral and central immunity contribute to neuropathic pain mechanisms, we hypothesized that biomarkers could be identified from the whole blood of adult male rats, by integrating graded chronic constriction injury (CCI), ipsilateral lumbar dorsal quadrant (iLDQ) and whole blood transcriptomes, and pathway analysis with pain behavior. Correlational bioinformatics identified a range of putative biomarker genes for allodynia intensity, many encoding for proteins with a recognized role in immune/nociceptive mechanisms. A selection of these genes was validated in a separate replication study. Pathway analysis of the iLDQ transcriptome identified Fcγ and Fcε signaling pathways, among others. This study is the first to employ the whole blood transcriptome to identify pain biomarker panels. The novel correlational bioinformatics, developed here, selected such putative biomarkers based on a correlation with pain behavior and formation of signaling pathways with iLDQ genes. Future studies may demonstrate the predictive ability of these biomarker genes across other models and additional variables.
Short‐term intravenous insulin infusion is associated with reduced expression of NADPH oxidase p47phox subunit in monocytes from type 2 diabetes patients
Authors: Vaquer Guillaume , Magous Richard , Cros Gérard , Wojtusciszyn Anne , Renard Eric , Chevassus Hughes , Petit Pierre , Lajoix Anne‐Dominique , Oiry Catherine
Published: June 2012

Hyperglycemia is a well‐known inducing factor of oxidative stress through activation of NADPH oxidase. In addition to its plasma glucose lowering effect, insulin may also have antioxidant activity and was shown to downregulate NADPH oxidase expression in vitro. In this study, we show that a short‐term (3‐day) intravenous insulin infusion in patients with type 2 diabetes induces normalization of both glycemia and mRNA expression of circulating monocyte p47phox subunit.
Diagnosis of Arteriovenous Fistula Dysfunction
Authors: Vachharajani Tushar J.
Published: June 2012

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) dysfunction remains a major contributor to the morbidity and mortality of hemodialysis patients. The failure of a newly created AVF to mature and development of stenosis in an established AVF are two common clinical predicaments. The goal is to identify a dysfunctional AVF early enough to intervene in a timely manner to either assist with the maturation process or to prevent thrombosis. The currently available tools in our armamentarium include clinical evaluation, physical examination of the AVF, and surveillance tests. Physical examination has been recognized as a simple and cost‐effective tool, but is often not implemented either because of lack of training or time constraints. Surveillance tests include measurement of access flow or pressure as a surrogate marker of AVF dysfunction. Surveillance tests often require expensive equipment, additional personnel, and are controversial. Currently, there are guidelines and recommendations to include all of these measures while evaluating an AVF. Implementing judicious use of these tools in clinical practice can facilitate early diagnosis for timely intervention in the appropriate population. Furthermore, this strategy may avoid unnecessary interventions and assist with healthcare cost containment.
A Systematic Review of Literature about Women's Knowledge and Attitudes toward Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination
Authors: Chan Zenobia C. Y. , Chan Tak Sing , Ng Ka Kui , Wong Man Lai
Published: June 2012

Objective

A systematic review was conducted to examine and describe women's knowledge of and attitudes toward HPV vaccination.

Design and Sample

Electronic databases, including MEDLINE, Ovid, CINAHL, the ISI Web of Science and the British Nursing Index, were systematically searched to locate empirical research studies about women''s knowledge of and attitudes toward HPV vaccination. All empirical studies published in English between January 2005 and January 2010 that aimed at examining and describing women's knowledge of and attitudes toward HPV vaccination were included.

Measurements

Studies were assessed based on the inclusion criteria. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) tool was used to evaluate the methodological quality of these studies. Key themes and concepts were extracted and synthesized.

Results

A total of 36 articles were retrieved and reviewed. Four main themes relating to HPV and HPV vaccination were identified, including “attitudes toward HPV vaccination”, “factors affecting the acceptance of HPV vaccination”, “intention to receive HPV vaccination” and “knowledge toward HPV or cervical cancer”.

Conclusions

Most women have positive attitudes and high intentions toward HPV vaccination. Factors affecting women's acceptance of HPV vaccination include knowledge, safety, cost and the efficacy of the vaccine. Many women lack knowledge about HPV and cervical cancer.
Old News: Why the 90‐Year Crisis in Medical Elder Care?
Authors: Diachun Laura L. , Charise Andrea , Lingard Lorelei
Published: June 2012

North American and European demographic projections indicate that by 2030, persons aged 65 and older will outnumber those younger than 15 by a ratio of 2:1. Curiously, principles of geriatric care have not taken strong hold among nongeriatric specialties, even as we approach the time of greatest need. To explore historical precedents for the current crisis in elder care, this article revisits the prescriptions of G. Stanley Hall's Senescence: The Last Half of Life (1922), a text widely recognized as one of the founding texts in the medicalized study of aging. It presents in brief three of Hall's major concerns—paucity of knowledge of nongeriatric specialists, the need for individualized care of elderly adults, and the prevalence of attitudinal obstacles in medical professionals caring for older persons—to demonstrate how little the language and content of modern appraisals have evolved since 1922. This disconcerting sense of paralysis is presented as an opportunity to advance important questions aimed at stimulating a more‐comprehensive research agenda for addressing the future of medical elder care.
Aortic and Pulmonary Artery Stiffness and Cardiac Function in Children at Risk for Obesity
Authors: Mahfouz Ragab A. , Dewedar Ashraf , Abdelmoneim Amr , Hossien Ekhlas M.
Published: June 2012

Objective: Childhood obesity is associated with cardiovascular risk factors. Being at risk for overweight has been defined as having a body mass index (BMI) between the 85th and 94th percentile for age and sex. In this study, we investigate the aortic and pulmonary artery stiffness and left and right ventricular function in children who are at risk for obesity Methods: Fifty‐six children who were at risk for obesity (study group) and 40 children with a BMI between the 25th and 74th percentiles (controls) were studied. Fasting blood levels of glucose, total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and high sensitive C‐reactive protein (CRP) were assessed in both groups. Left ventricular as well as right ventricular tissue Doppler was evaluated. Aortic and pulmonary artery stiffness (PAS) were a Results: Aortic stiffness and PAS were significantly increased in children who were at risk for obesity compared with control children (P < 0.001). The children who were at risk for obesity have subclinical left and right ventricular dysfunction (P < 0.001 and P < 0.001 for left and right isovolumetric relaxation time and <0.002 and 0.001 for left and right Tei index). The hs‐CRP was significantly higher (P < 0.01) compared to controls. Waist circumference and hs‐CRP (P < 0.001) were the main predictors of aortic and PAS. Conclusion: Children who were at risk for obesity have increased aortic and PAS, subclinical LV and RV dysfunction. These abnormalities were associated with increased hs‐CRP. The data suggest that appropriate strategies for weight control are essential not only for obese children but also for those at risk for overweight.
Cystic Hydatidosis of the Heart and Brain
Authors: Chaurasia Ajay S. , Nawale Jaywant M. , Patil Sandeep N. , Yemul Madhusudan A. , Mukhedkar Sachin , Sharma Sohan K. , K. Vinay , Punjabi Pritesh
Published: June 2012

A 21‐year‐old female presented with right1‐2sided hemiparesis and headache of fi ve months duration. Computed
tomography and magnetic resonance imaging of the brain were suggestive of a lobulated cystic mass in the left
parietal paraventricular region. Two‐dimensional and live three‐dimensional transthoracic echocardiogram followed
later by chest computed tomography performed as a part of preoperative workup showed a left ventricular apical
hydatid cyst. The patient underwent transmitral total pericystectomy followed by complete excision of the cyst in
the brain. Histopathological examination of the surgical specimens confi rmed that they were hydatid cysts.
Comparative Investigation of Green and Red Upconversion Luminescence in Er3+ Doped and Yb3+/Er3+ Codoped LaOCl
Authors: Xia Zhiguo , Li Jing , Luo Yi , Liao Libing
Published: June 2012

Pure tetragonal LaOCl:Er3+ and LaOCl:Yb3+/Er3+ samples possessing upconversion (UC) luminescence behavior were synthesized using a simple solid‐state reaction method and the structural properties were investigated using X‐ray diffraction, crystal structure analysis, and SEM, respectively. The UC spectroscopic properties of Er3+ doped and Yb3+/Er3+ codoped LaOCl were studied in terms of UC emission spectra. The intense green and red emissions around 528, 550, and 662 nm corresponding to the 2H11/2→4I15/2, 4S3/2→4I15/2, and 4F9/2→4I15/2 transitions of Er3+ ions were observed for LaOCl:Er3+ sample under excitation at 980 nm, and the power studies indicated that two‐photon processes were responsible for the green and red upconversion luminescence. The bright green emission is visible to the naked eyes for LaOCl:Er3+. A great enhancement of the visible upconversion emissions in Yb3+/Er3+‐codoped sample was observed, furthermore, it is interesting to find the bright red emission for LaOCl:Yb3+/Er3+ samples. The mechanisms for the green and red UC luminescence, especially the enhancement of red UC emission were discussed based on the law of UC intensity versus pump power and their lifetimes.
The Impact of Balanced Risk–Benefit Information and Initial Attitudes on Post‐Information Attitudes1
Authors: VAN DIJK HELEEN , FISCHER ARNOUT R. H. , DE JONGE JANNEKE , ROWE GENE , FREWER LYNN J.
Published: June 2012

In a realistic social context, people are confronted with both positive and negative information, yet research on this topic is relatively scarce. We present 2 studies examining the role of initial attitudes on the impact of one‐sided vs. balanced positive and negative information on attitudes toward food production methods. The first experiment demonstrated that one‐sided information influenced post‐information attitudes congruent to the direction of the message content. The second experiment showed that the effect of balanced information on post‐information attitudes may depend on initial attitudes. These results demonstrate that negativity effects are dominant for people with initial positive attitudes, but change into positivity effects for people with initial negative attitudes. Implications for communicating both positive and negative information are discussed.
Rejection Sensitivity, Social Withdrawal, and Loneliness in Young Adults
Authors: WATSON JOHN , NESDALE DREW
Published: June 2012

Rejection sensitivity (RS) has significant negative impacts on individuals' social cognitions, feelings, and interpersonal behaviors. The present research assessed the hypothesis that the effect of RS on young adults' loneliness is mediated by their tendency to withdraw from social contact so as to avoid possible rejection. Participants completed measures of their RS, their tendencies to engage in social withdrawal to avoid rejection, and their loneliness; as well as measures of their social avoidance and distress, self‐esteem, and social self‐efficacy. Results confirmed the main hypothesis and also indicated that RS is positively related to social avoidance and distress, and negatively related to self‐esteem and social self‐efficacy. Implications of the findings for understanding and counteracting RS are discussed.
Reduction of Delia radicum attack in field brassicas using a vertical barrier
Authors: Blackshaw Rod P. , Vernon Robert S. , Prasad Renee
Published: June 2012

Insecticide options for controlling Delia radicum (L.) (Diptera: Anthomyiidae) in brassica crops are now limited, and alternatives are needed. Vertical mesh barriers impede females reaching, and ovipositing in, small‐scale crops. We tested this pest management technique in a commercial crop to determine whether such barriers would also reduce dispersal of females at larger scales, and whether there was any detectable pattern to the spatial distributions of female D. radicum, eggs, and damage in a rutabaga crop [Brassica napabrassicae (L.) Mill (Brassicaceae)]. A mesh fence of 1.3 m high with an externally facing 30‐cm overhang was erected around the perimeter of a 2.7‐ha field. Yellow sticky traps were positioned at 12 points outside and at 104 locations along transects inside the barrier to capture adult flies. Eggs were sampled from soil around 10 plants at 62 locations and damage was assessed at harvest using a subset of 38 of these locations. There was a substantial reduction (up to 96%) in the number of female flies caught per trap inside the fence compared with outside and a change in the male:female sex ratio from 0.36 outside to 0.92 inside. Female numbers inside and outside were related and sampling date, trap location, and trap face explained significant proportions of the variance in both data sets. There was no relationship between the size of the population and the distance flies penetrated into the field or the proportion of flies recovered in the outer 10 m. Female, egg, and damage counts were largely restricted to the perimeter of the field. Although eggs and damage were related, trap counts did not reflect their spatial distributions. Damage was related to oviposition in the later weeks leading up to harvest. We conclude that yellow sticky traps are an ineffective monitoring tool compared with egg sampling, exclusion barriers can reduce numbers of females reaching a crop, and the system has the potential to deliver reductions in damage and pest control costs at a commercial scale.
Infection of tobacco plants by a begomovirus improves nutritional assimilation by a whitefly
Authors: Wang Jia , Bing Xiao‐Li , Li Meng , Ye Gong‐Yin , Liu Shu‐Sheng
Published: June 2012

The invasive Middle East‐Asia Minor 1 (MEAM1) cryptic species (formerly referred to as the B ‘biotype’) of the whitefly Bemisia tabaci (Gennadius) (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) complex has become a major crop pest worldwide due to its global invasion as well as epidemics of begomoviruses it transmits. Previous studies demonstrated that MEAM1 performed better on tobacco [Nicotiana tabacum L. (Solanaceae)] plants infected by Tomato yellow leaf curl China virus (TYLCCNV) than on uninfected plants. However, mechanisms underlying the interactions are not completely understood. In this study, we compared the composition of sugars and amino acids in the phloem sap of uninfected and TYLCCNV‐infected tobacco plants with or without whiteflies feeding on the plants. No significant differences were detected in terms of amino acid profiles, percentage of essential amino acids, and sugars:amino acids ratio. However, whiteflies feeding on TYLCCNV‐infected plants excreted comparatively a lower percentage of amino acids, especially essential amino acids, or proportionally a higher level of sugars than those feeding on uninfected plants, suggesting that whiteflies feeding on virus‐infected plants are able to achieve a more balanced nutritional assimilation. We also compared the honeydew excreted by viruliferous and non‐viruliferous whiteflies feeding on cotton [Gossypium hirsutum L. (Malvaceae)], a non‐host plant for TYLCCNV, to test the direct effects of the virus on whiteflies. Although the amino acids profiles in honeydew were similar between viruliferous and non‐viruliferous whiteflies, the sugars:amino acids ratio in honeydew excreted by viruliferous whiteflies was lower than that of non‐viruliferous whiteflies, suggesting that the viruliferous whiteflies assimilated a more imbalanced nutrition with proportionally more sugar. Taken together, our data indicate that although a plant virus may exert negative direct effects on its vector, feeding by the vector on virus‐infected plants may improve nutritional assimilation and consequently performance of the vector.
Latitudinal pattern in body size in a cockroach, Eupolyphaga sinensis
Authors: Hu Yuwei , Zhu Fen , Wang Xiaoping , Guan Chuxiong , An Yuxing , Lei Chaoliang
Published: June 2012

Body size of insects with flexible life cycles is expected to conform to the saw‐tooth model, a model in which the relationship between size and developmental time depends on length of the growing season. In species with high variability in terms of voltinism, however, more complex patterns can be expected. Few empirical studies have demonstrated the existence of such relationships, or whether climatic factors contribute to these relationships. In this study, we investigated the geographic variation in body size of the Chinese cockroach, Eupolyphaga sinensis Walker (Blattaria: Polyphagidae), which has a variable life cycle length. The sizes of adults – collected from 14 localities ranging from temperate to subtropical zones in China – were measured, using body length, body width, and pronotum width as parameters. The relationship between size, latitude, and climate factors (encompassing 10 variables) was then investigated. We found that the body size of E. sinensis varied considerably with latitude: cockroaches were larger at low and high latitudes, but smaller at intermediate latitudes. Thus, the relationship between climate and body size conformed to a saw‐tooth pattern. Results indicate that two factors were significantly associated with body size clines: season length and variability in life cycle length. Our results also demonstrated that climatic factors contribute to latitudinal clines in body size, which has important ecological and evolutionary implications. It can be expected that global climate change may alter latitudinal clines in body size of E. sinensis.
The effect of past natural enemy activity on host‐plant preference of two aphid species
Authors: Wilson Michael R. , Leather Simon R.
Published: June 2012

The selection of a host of high nutritional quality is of great importance to the development of offspring of larvipositing aphids, as is the avoidance of natural enemies. Little is known, however, about their ability to select host plants based on these factors. This article tests the preference of aphids Sitobion avenae (Fabricius) and Rhopalosiphum padi (L.) (both Hemiptera: Aphididae) for different winter wheat cultivars, Triticum aestivum (L.) (Poaceae), and their ability to detect and avoid predators in sacrifice of their most preferred host. In both species a preference was observed for nutritionally superior hosts. The preference of both species then exhibited a change towards a nutritionally inferior host after infestations of the harlequin ladybird, Harmonia axyridis (Pallas) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae), that had been consuming conspecific aphids. This investigation opens the door to the interesting prospect of the ability of aphids to make complex decisions regarding a compromise between high‐quality nutrition and avoidance of predation.
How avian incubation behaviour influences egg surface temperatures: relationships with egg position, development and clutch size
Authors: Boulton Rebecca L. , Cassey Phillip
Published: June 2012

While understanding heat exchange between incubating adults and their eggs is central to the study of avian incubation energetics, current theory based on thermal measurements from dummy eggs reveals little about the mechanisms of this heat exchange or behavioural implications for the incubating bird. For example, we know little about how birds distribute their eggs based on temperature differences among egg positions within the nest cup. We studied the great tit Parus major, a species with a large clutch size, to investigate surface cooling rates of individual eggs within the nest cup across a range of ambient temperatures in a field situation. Using state‐of‐the‐art portable infrared imaging and digital photography we tested for associations between egg surface temperature (and rate of cooling) and a combination of egg specific (mass, shape, laying order, position within clutch) and incubation specific (clutch size, ambient temperature, day of incubation) variables. Egg surface temperature and cooling rates were related to the position of the eggs within the nest cup, with outer eggs being initially colder and cooling quicker than central eggs. Between foraging bouts, females moved outer eggs significantly more than centrally positioned eggs. Our results demonstrate that females are capable of responding to individual egg temperature by moving eggs around the nest cup, and that the energy cost to the female may increase as incubation proceeds. In addition, our results showing that smaller clutches experience lower initial incubation temperatures and cool quicker than larger clutches warrant further attention for optimal clutch size theory and studies of energetic constraints during incubation. Finally, researchers using dummy eggs to record egg temperature have ignored important elements of contact‐incubation, namely the complexity of how eggs cool and how females respond to these changes.
Proinflammatory cytokine levels in patients with conversion disorder
Authors: Tiyekli Utkan , Çalıyurt Okan , Tiyekli Nimet Dilek
Published: June 2012

Objective

It was aimed to evaluate the relationship between proinflammatory cytokine levels and conversion disorder both commonly known as stress regulated.

Method

Baseline proinflammatory cytokine levels–[Tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF‐α), Interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β), Interleukin‐6 (IL‐6)]–were evaluated with enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay in 35 conversion disorder patients and 30 healthy controls. Possible changes in proinflammatory cytokine levels were evaluated again, after their acute phase in conversion disorder patients.

Results

Statistically significant decreased serum TNF‐α levels were obtained in acute phase of conversion disorder. Those levels increased after acute conversion phase. There were no statistically significant difference observed between groups in serum IL‐1β and (IL‐6) levels.

Conclusions

Stress associated with conversion disorder may suppress immune function in acute conversion phase and may have diagnostic and therapeutic value.
Long‐term vegetation responses to different goat grazing regimes in semi‐natural ecosystems: a case study in Tenerife (Canary Islands)
Authors: Fernández‐Lugo Silvia , Arévalo José Ramón , de Nascimento Lea , Mata Javier , Bermejo Luis Alberto
Published: June 2012

Question

How are semi‐natural ecosystems affected by goat grazing regime (heavy, light and long‐term abandonment)?

Location

Anaga Rural Park, Tenerife Island, Canary Islands (Spain).

Methods

We evaluated plant species composition, diversity and structure (frequencies of functional groups based on growth form and bare ground) for three goat grazing regimes using 63 permanent point‐quadrat transects. The effect of orientation (N vs S slope) was also analysed. Data were collected in the spring during each year from 2001 to 2005.

Results

Grazing regime affected the studied functional groups differently. The frequency of annual grasses was higher in the heavily grazed areas, shrubs decreased sharply from abandoned to heavily grazed areas, and shrub legumes appeared less abundant in the lightly grazed transects. An interaction between grazing regime and orientation affected some functional groups. Grazing led to higher plant diversity, and did not affect the frequency of bare ground or native and endemic species. There were no strong differences in species composition among the three grazing regimes. However, species composition in abandoned areas was characterized by a higher abundance of late‐successional and endemic shrub species, while herbaceous species typical of pastures were more common in the grazed areas.

Conclusions

Grazing regimes noticeably affect the composition and structure of the vegetation of semi‐natural ecosystems but do not result in a complete turnover in species composition. Goat grazing is beneficial for maintaining traditional open agroecosystems; however, controlling the grazing intensity can avoid negative effects on the vegetation, particularly the sharp reduction in shrub and palatable species. Some abandoned areas should be maintained to preserve grazing‐sensitive endemic shrub species in these Canarian semi‐natural ecosystems.
Glyphosate effects on seed bank and vegetation composition of temperate grasslands
Authors: Rodriguez Adriana M. , Jacobo Elizabeth J.
Published: June 2012

Questions

Intensification of livestock production has led to the increasing input of agrochemicals, mostly herbicides, in natural and semi‐natural grasslands. Glyphosate application shifts vegetation composition of grasslands of the Flooding Pampa region. Consequently, we asked two questions: (1) does the application of glyphosate affect the size, composition and diversity of the seed bank of these grasslands; and (2) to what extent does seed bank determine the vegetation composition of grassland communities affected by glyphosate application?

Location

Temperate‐humid grassland of Flooding Pampa region, Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Method

We studied paddocks dominated by native grassland on a commercial livestock farm. Glyphosate is usually applied in late summer to promote winter annual grasses in native grasslands. We chose three paddocks that had never been exposed to any herbicide and three paddocks that had been treated with glyphosate in late summer during the previous 5 years. We extracted soil cores to evaluate seed bank composition from 2007 to 2009 and recorded basal cover of above‐ground vegetation from 2008 to 2010 from the upper and the lower position of each paddock.

Results

Glyphosate treatment caused a dramatic shift in seed bank composition, so that seed densities of cool‐season annual grasses increased while cool and warm‐season perennial grasses, sedges, legumes and dicotyledonous herbs decreased. Richness and diversity of the seed bank were lower and dominance was higher under the glyphosate treatment. Similarity between the seed bank and floristic composition was higher in glyphosate‐treated paddocks in the upper position. Strong correspondences between the seed densities of cool‐season annual grasses and species composition of glyphosate‐treated paddocks and between the seed densities of cool‐ and warm‐season perennial grasses and legumes with the species composition of untreated paddocks were found.

Conclusions

Because the seed bank changes in response to glyphosate treatment involved the local extinction of several native perennial species, community restoration of these grasslands would depend mainly on propagule dispersal from adjacent areas. Our results raise awareness of the risks of widespread herbicide application for biodiversity conservation in the last semi‐natural habitats in the Pampas grasslands.
The dynamic viscoelasticity and plasticizer leachability of tissue conditioners
Authors: Hong Guang , Maeda Takeshi , Murata Hiroshi , Sasaki Keiichi
Published: June 2012

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2012.00639.x   The dynamic viscoelasticity and plasticizer leachability of tissue conditioners

Objectives:  Dynamic viscoelasticity is one of the most important characteristics of tissue conditioners. Leaching of plasticizer from tissue conditioners may cause changes in the dynamic viscoelasticity of these materials. The purpose of this study was to determine the dynamic viscoelasticity and plasticizer leachability of commercial tissue conditioners.

Materials and methods:  Five commercial tissue conditioners were used in this study: COE Comfort (CC), Fit Softer (FS), Hydro‐Cast (HC), Soft Conditioner (SC) and Visco‐Gel (VG). Five specimens of each material were stored in 37°C distilled water. The dynamic viscoelasticity and plasticizer leaching of each specimen were measured at 0, 1, 3, 7 and 14 days after immersion using a dynamic mechanical analyzer and high performance liquid chromatography. Data were analyzed using one‐way anova and Student–Newman–Keuls test (α = 0.05).

Results:  Significant differences in dynamic viscoelasticity and plasticizer leaching were found among the materials. The dynamic viscoelasticity of all materials increased or decreased significantly with time. Rapid changes in dynamic viscoelasticity were evident on day 1 after water immersion. The material CC recorded the highest level of plasticizer leaching.

Conclusion:  These results suggest that the dynamic viscoelasticity of commercial tissue conditioners is affected by plasticizer leaching. However, these effects are limited.
The POPPY Study: Developing a Model of Family‐Centred Care for Neonatal Units
Authors: Staniszewska Sophie , Brett Jo , Redshaw Maggie , Hamilton Karen , Newburn Mary , Jones Nicola , Taylor Lesley
Published: June 2012

Background: The concept of family‐centred care in neonatal practice has become increasingly recognised internationally. The underlying philosophy puts parents and the family at the centre of health care and promotes “individualised, flexible care.”

Aims: To develop the first international model of family‐centred care based on strong parental collaboration in the synthesis of robust research evidence to generate the philosophy, principles, model, and indicators for implementation.

Methods and Synthesis: Seven key steps were followed to develop the POPPY model of care collaboratively with parents. Step 1 drew on the POPPY systematic review to identify effective interventions. Step 2 drew on the POPPY qualitative study to identify good parent experiences. Step 3 identified the philosophy and principles of the POPPY model of care. Step 4 identified the key stages of the POPPY model of care. Step 5 populated the POPPY model of care with data from steps 1 and 2. Step 6 developed the indicators of family‐centred care; and Step 7 undertook some initial testing with parents and practitioners.

Results: Seven key stages of the parents’ journey through their neonatal unit experience were identified and formed the architecture of the POPPY model of care. These include: before admission to the unit, admission, early days, growing and developing, transfers between units and between levels of care, preparing for discharge, and transition to home and at home. A philosophy, a set of principles to underpin the model, and a set of indicators to guide implementation in neonatal units were developed.

Conclusion: The POPPY model of family‐centred care provides the first robust, collaboratively developed, parent‐centred model, which can be implemented to deliver high quality care to parents of preterm infants.

Implications: Implementing the POPPY model could help neonatal units to develop parent‐focused services which better meet parents’ needs for information, communication and support, key elements of family‐centred care.
Regenerative surgery of the complications with Morton's neuroma surgery: use of platelet rich plasma and hyaluronic acid
Authors: De Angelis Barbara , Lucarini Lucilla , Orlandi Fabrizio , Agovino Annarita , Migner Alessia , Cervelli Valerio , Izzo Valentina , Curcio Cristiano
Published: June 2012

Morton's neuroma is an entrapment neuropathy of the plantar digital nerve. We treated five patients with wound dehiscence and tendon exposure, after Morton's neuroma surgery excision using a dorsal approach. In this article we describe our technique. From July 2010 to August 2011, at the Department of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, University of Rome ‘Tor Vergata’, five patients (four females and one male), with ages ranging between 35 and 52 years, were treated with a combination of PRP (platelet rich plasma) and HA (hyaluronic acid). Thirty days following surgery, all patients showed a complete healing of the wound. The use of this technique for the treatment of postoperative wound dehiscence and tendon exposure has proven as satisfactory.
Overexpression of BMI‐1 is associated with poor prognosis in cervical cancer
Authors: Tong Yong‐Qing , Liu Bei , Zheng Hong‐Yun , He Yu‐Juan , Gu Jian , Li Feng , Li Yan
Published: June 2012

Aim

It has been reported that BMI‐1, a gene transcription promoter overexpressed in various human cancers, is associated with poor survival. We investigated whether BMI‐1 is a marker for cervical cancer by detecting the expression of BMI‐1 in cervical cancer.

Methods

An immunohistochemistry (IHC) streptavidin‐peroxidase technique was used to identify BMI‐1 protein expression in 302 cervical cancer specimens. Reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction and Western blot were employed to measure BMI‐1 mRNA and protein level. The correlation between BMI‐1 expression and clinicopathological factors was analyzed.

Results

Both BMI‐1 mRNA and protein expression were evident in cervical carcinoma tissues. An intense positive rate of 55.3% (167/302) was observed by IHC. High BMI‐1 expression was correlated with clinical stage, lymph node metastasis, vascular invasion and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection (P < 0.05), but there is insufficient evidence to confirm its value in tumor size, age, estrogen or progesterone receptor (P > 0.05). The BMI‐1 protein level was positively correlated with the clinical stages of cervical carcinoma and a high BMI‐1 expression was associated with poor prognosis (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

The high expression of BMI‐1 in cervical cancer is related to tumor progression, lymph node metastasis and HPV infection, suggesting that cervical cancer with excessive BMI‐1 expression possesses high metastases potential and that BMI‐1 may be a promising biomarker for predicting metastasis in cervical cancer.
The C2H2‐type Zinc Finger Protein ZFP182 is Involved in Abscisic Acid‐Induced Antioxidant Defense in RiceF
Authors: Zhang Hong , Ni Lan , Liu Yanpei , Wang Yunfei , Zhang Aying , Tan Mingpu , Jiang Mingyi
Published: June 2012

C2H2‐type zinc finger proteins (ZFPs) are thought to play important roles in modulating the responses of plants to drought, salinity and oxidative stress. However, direct evidence is lacking for the involvement of these ZFPs in abscisic acid (ABA)‐induced antioxidant defense in plants. In this study, the role of the rice (Oryza sativaL. sub.japonicacv. Nipponbare) C2H2‐type ZFPZFP182in ABA‐induced antioxidant defense and the relationship betweenZFP182and two rice MAPKs,OsMPK1andOsMPK5in ABA signaling were investigated. ABA treatment induced the increases in the expression ofZFP182,OsMPK1andOsMPK5, and the activities of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and ascorbate peroxidase (APX) in rice leaves. The transient gene expression analysis and the transient RNA interference (RNAi) analysis in protoplasts showed thatZFP182,OsMPK1andOsMPK5are involved in ABA‐induced up‐regulation in the activities of SOD and APX. Besides,OsMPK1andOsMPK5were shown to be required for the up‐regulation in the expression ofZFP182in ABA signaling, butZFP182did not mediate the ABA‐induced up‐regulation in the expression ofOsMPK1andOsMPK5. These results indicate thatZFP182is required for ABA‐induced antioxidant defense and the expression ofZFP182is regulated by rice MAPKs in ABA signaling.
Exploring the mediating role of trust on the relationship between guanxi and knowledge sharing: a social network perspective
Authors: Yen Yu‐Fang , Tseng Jung‐Feng , Wang Hsing‐Kuo
Published: June 2012

The current study adopts the social network perspective to propose a conceptual model and examine how guanxi influences knowledge sharing via trust. This paper addresses the concept of interpersonal relationships in the context of Chinese culture and applies it as a guanxi. This research gathers data from 213 employees from 100 high‐technology firms in Taiwan and performs data management and analysis using hierarchical regression analyses to test the hypotheses. The findings reveal that guanxi has a positive effect on both trust and knowledge sharing on an individual level. Trust has a positive effect on knowledge sharing, and it partially mediates the effects of guanxi on knowledge sharing. Theoretical and practical implications are also discussed, for example, the designs of teamwork and incentives.
Does a single cup of coffee at dinner alter the sleep? A controlled cross‐over randomised trial in real‐life conditions
Authors: LLORET‐LINARES Célia , LAFUENTE‐LAFUENTE Carmello , CHASSANY Olivier , GREEN Andrew , DELCEY Véronique , MOULY Stéphane , BERGMANN Jean François
Published: June 2012

Aim:  To report changes in the quality of sleep after drinking an evening cup of either caffeinated or decaffeinated coffee, in healthy subjects in everyday life.

Methods:  Sixty‐three healthy men and women, who considered themselves to be caffeine sensitive were included in a double‐blind, cross‐over trial, randomised to receive either caffeinated coffee containing 90 mg of caffeine, or, as control, a dose of decaffeinated coffee containing 4.5 mg caffeine, taken after dinner. The primary outcome measure was the degree of sleep disturbance, scored on a visual analogue scale, ranging from 0 (excellent sleep) to 100 (very disturbed sleep). Ancillary criteria were patients' reported estimate of sleep latency, and how often the subjects reported waking.

Results:  Mean age of subjects was 30.5 ± 12 years. The quality of sleep was significantly worse with caffeinated (mean 30.8 ± 22.7) than with decaffeinated coffee (mean 19.5 ± 16.9), P = 0.001. Caffeinated coffee also significantly increased the sleep latency (mean difference 17 ± 31 minutes, P < 0.001) and the frequency of waking (mean 1.3 vs 0.8 episodes in the night, P = 0.006) compared with decaffeinated coffee.

Conclusions:  Even a single cup of caffeinated coffee consumed before bedtime in real‐life conditions causes a deterioration in the quality of sleep in caffeine‐sensitive subjects.
Older people's diet‐related beliefs and behaviours: Intervention implications
Authors: PETTIGREW Simone , PESCUD Melanie , DONOVAN Robert J.
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Health promotion campaigns in Australia have not addressed the needs of an ageing population for nutrition‐related information. Such campaigns would need to focus on those middle‐aged and older to ensure that individuals are aware of appropriate dietary behaviours to sustain them into older age. The present study explored the diet‐related beliefs and behaviours of mature adults to inform future healthy eating interventions targeting this group.

Methods:  An inductive, qualitative approach was used to generate information relating to mature adults' diet‐related beliefs and behaviours. Twenty individual interviews and 12 focus groups were conducted with 111 Western Australians aged 40+ years. Data were collected from individuals residing in metropolitan and regional areas. Data coding and analysis were conducted with the use of NVivo7 software (QSR International, Doncaster, Victoria, Australia).

Results:  The consistent findings across age groups and geographical locations suggest that mature adults may not be aware of the implications of ageing on changing dietary needs, and in particular they may lack general knowledge of current guidelines for specific nutrients such as salt and alcohol. Information relating to appropriate serving sizes of different foods may also be useful for members of this segment.

Conclusions:  While further research is required to support these qualitative findings, it appears that diet‐related information may be more readily accepted by mature adults if it is presented as preventing future deterioration rather than improving current health states.
Comparison of different geostatistical methods to estimate groundwater level at different climatic periods
Authors: Sadat Noori S. Mahmood , Ebrahimi Kumars , Liaghat Abdol‐Majid , Hoorfar Abdol‐Hossein
Published: June 2012

The main aim of this study has been to assess the spatially variability of groundwater level at different climatic periods. The study area isSaveh‐Nobaran aquifer inIran. First, using two drought indices, different climatic periods in the region including wet, normal and dry during 1993–2003 were recognized. Second, with the use of measured elevations of the water table, experimental semivariograms (spherical, exponential andGaussian) were constructed that characterize the spatial variability of the measured groundwater levels. Groundwater levels were interpolated by four different geostatistical methods.RMSE,MAEandR2were calculated to determine the best method. TheR2coefficient obtained from kriging, cokriging,TPSSandIDWmethods were 0.95, 0.97, 0.89 and 0.83, respectively. Cokriging method was used to create groundwater‐level maps, including maximum, average and minimum water levels for each climatic period. The results obtained from geostatistical analysis showed that groundwater depth varies spatially in different climatic conditions.
Divine Revelation
Authors: King Rolfe
Published: June 2012

Divine revelation is a topical subject, given the many claims to revelation in the modern world. This article looks at recent discussion within the analytic tradition of philosophy which particularly relates to how to evaluate claims about divine revelation. The subjects covered are: (i) defining divine revelation; (ii) direct cognition of God; (iii) evidence‐based approaches; (iv) divine testimony; (v) conversion and faith; (vi) competing claims about divine revelation. Brief comments are then made on some related areas.
Quality Improvement in Heart Failure: A Randomized Educational Intervention to Change Provider Behavior
Authors: Piña Ileana L. , Bruckman David , Lance Craig , Hitch Jeanne , Gee Julie , Schaub Kimberley , Davidson Michelle , Ober Scott , Aron David
Published: June 2012

©2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

Whether provider education changes practice for HF has not been reported. (NHeFT)™ uses didactic and experiential training of primary care providers (PCP) to optimize treatment of HF. We randomized PCP’s in the Cleveland VA clinics to training (T) vs control (C). Endpoints: Primary – the number of patients with EF < 40% treated with ACEI/ARB and Beta Blocker, +/− diuretic post T vs pre T; Secondary – the number of patients with increase in ACEI/ARB or a decrease in diuretic post T vs. pre T. Of 641 patients, 216 (85 C,131 T) had EF < 40%; 188 (85%) did not meet the primary endpoint at baseline. After T, a similar proportion (64.2% C, 74.4%,T) met the endpoint at end of study (P = 0.14). The odds of a patient meeting the primary endpoint by care of a T provider, was not significantly higher than C (OR 1.496, 95% CI (0.751, 2.982)). Patients seen by T were more likely to have the diuretic dose decreased vs patients under C, without increases in ACEI or ARB (P < 0.03). Thus, a didactic program of HF plus a preceptorship changed practice modestly. Studies should address provider readiness of change and self efficacy to adhere to evidenced‐based care.
Changes in Perceived Risk and Likelihood of Influenza Vaccination of Children With and Without Asthma
Authors: LOBELLO STEVEN G. , UNDERHILL ANDREA T.
Published: June 2012

Data from the Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System was used to determine if parents' decisions to vaccinate children against seasonal influenza conform to predictions made by theories of preventive health behavior that postulate increased preventive action with increased risk. Results indicated that parents of children with active asthma were more likely to report influenza vaccination than parents of children who never had asthma (OR = 3.5, 95% CI 2.4–5.1). There was no difference in vaccination frequency reported by parents of children without asthma and children whose asthma is in remission (OR = .8, 95% CI.4–1.4). Parents of children whose asthma is in remission will require additional education and prompting to encourage needed influenza vaccination.