bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gradual Increase of miR156 Regulates Temporal Expression Changes of Numerous Genes during Leaf Development in Rice
Authors: Xie Kabin , Shen Jianqiang , Hou Xin , Yao Jialing , Li Xianghua , Xiao Jinghua , Xiong Lizhong
Published: January 2012

The highly conserved plant microRNA, miR156, is an essential regulator for plant development. In Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), miR156 modulates phase changing through its temporal expression in the shoot. In contrast to the gradual decrease over time in the shoot (or whole plant), we found that the miR156 level in rice (Oryza sativa) gradually increased from young leaf to old leaf after the juvenile stage. However, the miR156-targeted rice SQUAMOSA-promoter binding-like (SPL) transcription factors were either dominantly expressed in young leaves or not changed over the time of leaf growth. A comparison of the transcriptomes of early-emerged old leaves and later-emerged young leaves from wild-type and miR156 overexpression (miR156-OE) rice lines found that expression levels of 3,008 genes were affected in miR156-OE leaves. Analysis of temporal expression changes of these genes suggested that miR156 regulates gene expression in a leaf age-dependent manner, and miR156-OE attenuated the temporal changes of 2,660 genes. Interestingly, seven conserved plant microRNAs also showed temporal changes from young to old leaves, and miR156-OE also attenuated the temporal changes of six microRNAs. Consistent with global gene expression changes, miR156-OE plants resulted in dramatic changes including precocious leaf maturation and rapid leaf/tiller initiation. Our results indicate that another gradient of miR156 is present over time, a gradual increase during leaf growth, in addition to the gradual decrease during shoot growth. Gradually increased miR156 expression in the leaf might be essential for regulating the temporal expression of genes involved in leaf development.
1-Ferrocenylmethyl-3-(2,4,6-trimethylbenzyl)-1H-imidazolidin-3-ium iodide andtrans-bis(3-benzyl-1-ferrocenylmethyl-1H-imidazolidin-2-ylidene)diiodidopalladium(II)
Authors: Daran Jean-Claude , Demirhan Funda , Yıldırım Özgür , Çetinkaya Bekir
Published: January 2012

Owing to increasing interest in the use of N-heterocyclic carbenes (NHCs) based on imidazolidinium ions as ligands in the design of highly efficient transition-metal-based homogeneous catalysts, the characterizations of the 1-ferrocenylmethyl-3-(2,4,6-trimethylbenzyl)imidazolidin-3-ium iodide salt, [Fe(C5H5)(C19H24N2)]I, (I), and the palladium complextrans-bis(3-benzyl-1-ferrocenylmethyl-1H-imidazolidin-2-ylidene)diiodidopalladium(II), [Fe2Pd(C5H5)2(C16H17N2)2I2], (II), are reported. Compound (I) has two iodide anions and two imidazolidinium cations within the asymmetric unit (Z′ = 2). The two cations have distinctly different conformations, with the ferrocene groups orientatedexoandendowith respect to the N-heterocyclic carbene. Weak C—H donor hydrogen bonds to both the iodide anions and the π system of the mesitylene group combine to form two-dimensional layers perpendicular to the crystallographiccdirection. Only one of the formally charged imidazolidinium rings forms a near-linear hydrogen bond with an iodide anion. Complex (II) shows square-planar coordination around the PdIImetal, which is located on an inversion centre (Z′ = 0.5). The ferrocene and benzyl substituents are in atrans–antiarrangement. The Pd—C bond distance between the N-heterocyclic carbene ligands and the metal atom is 2.036 (7) Å. A survey of related structures shows that the lengthening of the N—C bonds and the closure of the N—C—N angle seen here on metal complexation is typical of similar NHCs and their complexes.
Three-dimensional structure of a thermophilic family GH11 xylanase fromThermobifida fusca
Authors: Lammerts van Bueren Alicia , Otani Suzie , Friis Esben P. , Wilson Keith S. , Davies Gideon J.
Published: January 2012

Thermostable enzymes employ various structural features dictated at the amino-acid sequence level that allow them to maintain their integrity at higher temperatures. Many hypotheses as to the nature of thermal stability have been proposed, including optimized core hydrophobicity and an increase in charged surface residues to enhance polar solvent interactions for solubility. Here, the three-dimensional structure of the family GH11 xylanase from the moderate thermophileThermobifida fuscain its trapped covalent glycosyl-enzyme intermediate complex is presented. Interactions with the bound ligand show fewer direct hydrogen bonds from ligand to protein than observed in previous complexes from other species and imply that binding of the xylan substrate involves several water-mediated hydrogen bonds.
Children in Need in the South of Italy: Features and Distortions in the Deinstitutionalisation of Care
Authors: Licursi Sabina , Marcello Giorgio , Pascuzzi Emanuela
Published: January 2012

Despite the shift in emphasis from institutional to foster family care, in the south of Italy children in need are mainly looked after by residential services. These are required to provide family‐style care and to place children on a short‐term basis. Using data from research on a 100% sample of day units, residential services and children in care in the Calabria region, this article investigates the functioning of the system of care for vulnerable children at the sub‐national level, describes looked‐after children’s characteristics and life conditions and questions the extent to which a real deinstitutionalisation process has occurred in this area. Finally, some deinstitutionalisation recommendations are given.
Implementing a statin switching programme in primary care: patients' views and experiences
Authors: Krska Janet , Allison Katie , Delargy Michela , Murray Laura , Smith Hillary
Published: January 2012

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Switching of patients' prescribed medicines within a therapeutic class is a common strategy to reduce prescribing costs, and in England a standard methodology has been promoted for switching processes.

• Previous work to date suggests many patients are sceptical of generic products and switching may reduce compliance.

• Patients' views on switching in general and the processes used have not been widely sought.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• Patients may be less accepting of therapeutic switching programmes than is currently assumed.

• Patients lacked understanding of the reason for the switch, despite standard letters and information leaflets being used, and few sought consultations.

• Greater explanation of switching, possibly with involvement of community pharmacists, could lead to improved patient understanding and acceptance.

INTRODUCTION Estimates suggest £200 million could be saved on prescribing costs in England by implementing medication switches. Few studies have evaluated patients' views or understanding of therapeutic switches.

AIM To obtain patient and pharmacist perspectives on switching from atorvastatin to simvastatin within an English Primary Care Trust (PCT).

METHOD All patients undergoing this switch, in seven self‐selected East Lancashire practices, were sent postal questionnaires covering demographics, experiences and views regarding switching, with no reminder. Practice pharmacists implementing switches in these practices were interviewed about processes and their views on these.

RESULTS Pharmacists' switching process involved a standard letter offering a telephone consultation or appointment, plus an information leaflet. They considered most patients accepted switches, with few requesting consultations.

Four hundred and ninety‐four patients were identified and a response rate of 48.6% (240) obtained. The majority of respondents were happy with the switch (53.7%) and how they were informed (60.1%), with these findings being positively correlated. However over half (52.9%) did not understand the reason for the switch, particularly those with lower educational qualifications. Patients unhappy about switching perceived they had experienced side effects, or only learned of the switch on collecting a prescription or did not recall the consultation offer.

Respondents indicated a preference for future switches to involve a face‐to‐face consultation (59.8%), with two‐thirds (65.2%) agreeing that community pharmacists should explain medication switches.

CONCLUSION The standard process used, in line with nationally‐designed templates, resulted in many patients being unhappy with or lacking understanding of switching statins, suggesting that improvements may be needed.
The use of molecular tools in invasion biology: an emphasis on freshwater ecosystems
Authors: BLANCHET S.
Published: January 2012

Abstract  The potential uses of molecular tools to address issues in invasion biology are reviewed, including the early detection of novel and cryptic non‐native species, the identification of introduction pathways and vectors, the understanding of the drivers in successful invasions and the assessment of effective population sizes during the establishment of new populations. The usefulness of molecular tools to assess the ecological and evolutionary consequences of biological invasions is discussed using recent examples in which the latest techniques in molecular ecology (e.g. high‐throughput sequencing, DNA barcoding) are employed. This review highlights the versatility of molecular tools to provide information and insights on the ecological and evolutionary causes and consequences of biological invasions at different levels of biological organisation (i.e. gene, individual, population, community and ecosystem).
Neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin regulates intracellular accumulation of Rh123 in cancer cells
Authors: Wang Li‐Hong , Chang Guo‐Qiang , Zhang Hong‐Ju , Wang Jian , Lin Ya‐Ni , Jin Wei‐Na , Li Hua‐Wen , Gao Wei , Wang Ruo‐Jun , Li Qing‐Hua , Pang Tian‐Xiang
Published: January 2012

Multidrug resistance (MDR) is a major problem facing patients with cancer. Although Neutrophil gelatinase–associated lipocalin (NGAL) is highly expressed in various cancers, the possible role of NGAL in MDR is still obscure. In this article, we evaluated the effect of NGAL on Rh123 accumulation in cancer cells. NGAL was first down‐regulated by short hairpin RNA–mediated interference. In correlation with the reduced NGAL expression, intracellular Rh123 accumulation was significantly decreased. We finally observed that inhibiting both of the ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK could seriously down‐regulate NGAL expression and also decrease the intracellular accumulation of Rh123, indicating that NGAL‐mediated Rh123 accumulation is regulated by the phosphorylation of ERK1/2 and p38 MAPK. Pretreatment of MDA‐MB‐231 with NGAL recombinant protein and antibody had significant effects on the intracellular accumulation of Rh123, whereas little effect was observed in K562 cells treated with the same method, suggesting that NGAL was involved in the regulation of Rh123 accumulation in these two types of cancers, although different pathways. Here we provide new evidence that directly shows the possibility of small chemical substances Rh123 intracellular accumulation that is regulated by NGAL. These results suggest the possibility of NGAL involvement in drug transportation and cancer MDR formation, and indicate the potential of NGAL in cancer therapy.
Spatial patterns and drivers of fire occurrence and its future trend under climate change in a boreal forest of Northeast China
Authors: Liu Zhihua , Yang Jian , Chang Yu , Weisberg Peter J. , He Hong S.
Published: January 2012

Understanding the spatial patterns of fire occurrence and its response to climate change is vital to fire risk mitigation and vegetation management. Focusing on boreal forests in NortheastChina, we used spatial point pattern analysis to model fire occurrence reported from 1965 to 2009. Our objectives were to quantitate the relative importance of biotic, abiotic, and human influences on patterns of fire occurrence and to map the spatial distribution of fire occurrence density (number of fires occurring over a given area and time period) under current and future climate conditions. Our results showed human‐caused fires were strongly related to human activities (e.g. landscape accessibility), including proximity to settlements and roads. In contrast, fuel moisture and vegetation type were the most important controlling factors on the spatial pattern of lightning fires. Both current and future projected spatial distributions of the overall (human‐ + lightning‐caused) fire occurrence density were strongly clustered along linear components of human infrastructure. Our results demonstrated that the predicted change in overall fire occurrence density is positively related to the degree of temperature and precipitation change, although the spatial pattern of change is expected to vary spatially according to proximity to human ignition sources, and in a manner inconsistent with predicted climate change. Compared to the current overall fire occurrence density (median value: 0.36 fires per 1000 km2per year), the overall fire occurrence density is projected to increase by 30% under theCGCM3B1 scenario and by 230% under HadCM3A2 scenario in 2081–2100, respectively. Our results suggest that climate change effects may not outweigh the effects of human influence on overall fire occurrence over the next century in this cultural landscape. Accurate forecasts of future fire‐climate relationships should account for anthropogenic influences on fire ignition density, such as roads and proximity to settlements.
Interim data on long‐term efficacy, safety and tolerability of a plasma‐derived factor VIII concentrate in 109 patients with severe haemophilia A
Authors: NEMES L. , POLLMANN H. , BECKER T.
Published: January 2012

Summary.  The aim of this open‐label, multicentre and multinational post‐marketing surveillance was to investigate clinical effectiveness, safety and tolerability of a plasma‐derived and vWF containing factor VIII product (FVIII/VWF) in patients with severe haemophilia A. Long‐term effectiveness, safety and tolerability were investigated in a total of 109 haemophilia A patients treated for prophylaxis or on‐demand, as required. Interim data collected until June 2010 are presented. Most patients (99/109; 90.8%) were previously treated patients (PTPs). Mean observation period was 82.6 months. Overall, patients received 105 131 425 IU haemoctin SDH during 68 624 administrations. Each patient was given a mean of 635.4 injections, whereby about half of the administrations were given for treatment of bleeding episodes (46.9%) and the other administrations for prophylactic reasons (53.1%). Patients on prophylaxis had a median of 0.8 bleeding episodes per month. The expected therapeutic effect was reached in 99.3% of treatments. The incidence of clinically relevant inhibitor formation in patients with severe haemophilia (FVIII activity ≤ 1%) was 1.2% for PTPs. One previously untreated patient with severe haemophilia had a clinically relevant transient inhibitor. No treatment related transmissions of hepatitis A, B and C and HIV 1/2 were observed. German patients had a higher extent of exposure and experienced less bleeding episodes than Hungarian patients. In conclusion, haemoctin SDH was effective, safe and well tolerated in long‐term prophylaxis and treatment on demand.
Prenatal diagnosis for haemophilia: a nationwide survey among female carriers in the Netherlands
Authors: BALAK D. M. W. , GOUW S. C. , PLUG I. , MAUSER‐BUNSCHOTEN E. P. , VRIENDS A. H. J. T. , Van DIEMEN‐HOMAN J. E. M. , ROSENDAAL F. R. , Van Der BOM J. G.
Published: January 2012

Summary.  Carriers of haemophilia face difficult choices regarding prenatal diagnosis, but little is known about the determinants that influence their decisions. The aim of this study was to assess the incidence of prenatal diagnosis and potential determinants affecting the choice for prenatal diagnosis. A nationwide survey was performed among all women who underwent carriership testing for haemophilia in the Netherlands between 1992 and 2004. Prenatal diagnosis was assessed in 207 carriers of haemophilia A or B who had been pregnant. Prenatal diagnosis was categorized into early first trimester (Y‐PCR testing or chorionic villus sampling) often intended to prevent the birth of a child with haemophilia, and into late prenatal diagnosis (amniocentesis or ultrasound assessment) aimed at obstetrical management. Of 207 carriers 112 (54%) underwent prenatal diagnosis. Forty‐eight women underwent early prenatal diagnosis and 64 women underwent late prenatal diagnosis. In 26 pregnancies early prenatal diagnosis was positive for haemophilia, and in 18 of these pregnancies termination was opted for. The choice for early prenatal diagnosis was associated with a liberal view towards termination of pregnancy (relative risk (RR) 12.5; 95% confidence interval (CI) 3.1–51.2), severe haemophilia in the family (RR 20.2; CI 2.7–153.6), absence of a religion (RR 1.9; CI 1.1–3.1) and older age (RR 2.0; CI 1.0–3.9). The choice for late prenatal diagnosis was associated with birth year after 1970 (RR 2.3; CI 1.5–3.5) and a previous child with haemophilia (RR 2.2; CI 1.4–3.4). More than half of all Dutch haemophilia carriers underwent prenatal diagnosis. Several determinants were strongly associated with prenatal diagnosis.
Natural history of platelet antibody formation against αIIbβ3 in a French cohort of Glanzmann thrombasthenia patients
Authors: FIORE M. , FIRAH N. , PILLOIS X. , NURDEN P. , HEILIG R. , NURDEN A. T.
Published: January 2012

Summary.  Treatment of the bleeding syndrome in Glanzmann thrombasthenia (GT) is often complicated by naturally occurring isoantibodies directed against the αIIbβ3 integrin that cause the removal of or render ineffective transfused donor platelets. Such antibodies are produced after transfusion or pregnancy when the patient’s immune system comes into contact with normal platelets. Despite many reports of anti‐αIIbβ3 antibodies in GT patients, there is no consensus pertaining to their frequency, their long‐term evolution in the circulation, or their formation in relation to either (i) the extent of the αIIbβ3 deficiency in the patient’s platelets or (ii) the nature of the genetic defect (ITGA2B or ITGB3 genes). Antibody screening was performed on a large series of 24 GT patients in South‐West France dividing the patients into two cohorts: (i) 16 patients with the French gypsy mutation (c.1544 + 1G>A) within ITGA2B that gives platelets totally lacking αIIbβ3 and (ii) 8 patients carrying other defects of ITGA2B or ITGB3 with different expression levels of αIIbβ3. Our results confirm that patients with premature termination mutations resulting in platelets lacking αIIbβ3 are the most susceptible to form isoantibodies, a finding that may be useful in deciding the choice of therapy between platelet transfusion and the use of recombinant factor VIIa (FVIIa).
Different genetic clines in response to temperature across the native and introduced ranges of a global plant invader
Authors: Alexander Jake M. , van Kleunen Mark , Ghezzi Reto , Edwards Peter J.
Published: January 2012

1. Understanding how non‐native plants respond to environmental variation, and the limits to these responses, is important for predicting plant invasiveness. Until now, the extent to which species’ climatic limits differ on introduction to a new range has not been experimentally tested. Here, we investigate fitness responses to temperature and low‐temperature limits to reproduction of native and introduced populations of the widespread forb Plantago lanceolata.

2. We recorded fitness parameters of P. lanceolata accessions collected from nearly complete latitudinal gradients in the species’ native and introduced ranges and grown in five common gardens arranged along an elevational gradient in the native range (European Alps). The highest garden was located outside the low‐temperature limit of the species.

3. Native populations exhibited clear clinal genetic differentiation along temperature gradients, while any differentiation in introduced populations was much weaker; however, the introduced populations displayed higher average fitness and broad climatic tolerance. Despite these differences, both native and introduced plants failed to set seed beyond the elevational range margin and so shared a similar low‐temperature limit to reproduction.

4. Synthesis. Our experimental data support observational studies of niche‐limit conservatism in non‐native plants, which has important implications for their management. Specifically, it suggests that efforts to predict the extent of an invasion based on knowledge of the native niche are likely to be accurate at the level of the species, even if populations undergo genetic changes or respond differently to climatic gradients in the new range.
Genomic signature of natural and anthropogenic stress in wild populations of the waterflea Daphnia magna: validation in space, time and experimental evolution
Authors: ORSINI LUISA , SPANIER KATINA I. , DE MEESTER LUC
Published: January 2012

Natural populations are confronted with multiple selection pressures resulting in a mosaic of environmental stressors at the landscape level. Identifying the genetic underpinning of adaptation to these complex selection environments and assigning causes of natural selection within multidimensional selection regimes in the wild is challenging. The water flea Daphnia is a renowned ecological model system with its well‐documented ecology, the possibility to analyse subfossil dormant egg banks and the short generation time allowing an experimental evolution approach. Capitalizing on the strengths of this model system, we here link candidate genome regions to three selection pressures, known to induce micro‐evolutionary responses in Daphnia magna: fish predation, parasitism and land use. Using a genome scan approach in space, time and experimental evolution trials, we provide solid evidence of selection at the genome level under well‐characterized environmental gradients in the wild and identify candidate genes linked to the three environmental stressors. Our study reveals differential selection at the genome level in Daphnia populations and provides evidence for repeatable patterns of local adaptation in a geographic mosaic of environmental stressors fuelled by standing genetic variation. Our results imply high evolutionary potential of local populations, which is relevant to understand the dynamics of trait changes in natural populations and their impact on community and ecosystem responses through eco‐evolutionary feedbacks.
The flavoprotein Cyc2p, a mitochondrial cytochrome c assembly factor, is a NAD(P)H‐dependent haem reductase
Authors: Corvest Vincent , Murrey Darren A. , Hirasawa Mazakazu , Knaff David B. , Guiard Bernard , Hamel Patrice P.
Published: January 2012

Cytochrome c assembly requires sulphydryls at the CXXCH haem binding site on the apoprotein and also chemical reduction of the haem co‐factor. In yeast mitochondria, the cytochrome haem lyases (CCHL, CC1HL) and Cyc2p catalyse covalent haem attachment to apocytochromes c and c1. An in vivo indication that Cyc2p controls a reductive step in the haem attachment reaction is the finding that the requirement for its function can be bypassed by exogenous reductants. Although redox titrations of Cyc2p flavin (Em = −290 mV) indicate that reduction of a disulphide at the CXXCH site of apocytochrome c (Em = −265 mV) is a thermodynamically favourable reaction, Cyc2p does not act as an apocytochrome c or c1 CXXCH disulphide reductase in vitro. In contrast, Cyc2p is able to catalyse the NAD(P)H‐dependent reduction of hemin, an indication that the protein's role may be to control the redox state of the iron in the haem attachment reaction to apocytochromes c. Using two‐hybrid analysis, we show that Cyc2p interacts with CCHL and also with apocytochromes c and c1. We postulate that Cyc2p, possibly in a complex with CCHL, reduces the haem iron prior to haem attachment to the apoforms of cytochrome c and c1.
Association studies of Toll‐like receptor gene polymorphisms with allograft survival in renal transplant recipients of North India
Authors: Srivastava Priyanka , Singh Anugya , Kesarwani Praveen , Jaiswal Praveen K. , Singh Vibha , Mittal Rama D.
Published: January 2012

Srivastava P, Singh A, Kesarwani P, Jaiswal PK, Singh V, Mittal RD. Association studies of Toll‐like receptor gene polymorphisms with allograft survival in renal transplant recipients of North India.

Abstract:  Organ transplantation itself inevitably activates the innate immune system by Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), potentially leading to allograft rejection and graft failure. We evaluated the possible association of TLR2, TLR3, and TLR9 polymorphisms of donor‐recipient pairs and acute rejection in renal transplant patients of North India. TLR2 (−196 to −174 del), TLR3 (c.1377C/T; rs 3775290), and TLR9 (+2848 G/A; rs 352140) were genotyped using DNA samples from 200 donor‐recipient pairs of live donor kidney transplantation by applying Restriction Fragment Length Polymorphism (RFLP) methodology. The variant allele frequency of TLR2 (−196 to −174 del) was significantly different between recipients and donors (7.5% vs. 5.0%; p = 0.049; OR = 3.9; 95%CI = 1.01–15.32). However, no significant association for allograft rejection was observed in transplant recipients for TLR3 and TLR9. Interestingly, a low prevalence of AA genotype of TLR9 + 2848 G>A was observed in rejecters when compared with non‐rejecters, demonstrating protective association with allograft rejection (OR = 0.30, 95% CI = 0.12–0.88, p = 0.028). An allele in patients was also observed to be associated with higher rejection‐free survival (log‐rank = 0.044). These TLR gene polymorphisms, upon further evaluation, may be helpful in elucidation of immunobiological mechanisms associated with renal graft rejection.
Participants' perspectives of a multi‐component, group‐based weight loss programme supplement for cardiac rehabilitation: A qualitative study
Authors: Gallagher Robyn , Kirkness Ann , Armari Elizabeth , Davidson Patricia M
Published: January 2012

Gallagher R, Kirkness A, Armari E, Davidson PM. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 28–35

Participants' perspectives of a multi‐component, group‐based weight loss programme supplement for cardiac rehabilitation: A qualitative study

Addressing overweight and obesity in people with cardiovascular risk factors is an important aspect of cardiac rehabilitation, but minimal implementation of targeted strategies has occurred. The aim of this study was to describe participants' perspectives of a multi‐component, group‐based weight loss supplement to cardiac rehabilitation programmes. Four focus groups of participants completing the intervention (n = 16) and maintenance phases (n = 19) of the Healthy Eating and Exercise Lifestyle Program (HEELP) were conducted. Interviews were transcribed and thematically analyzed using an inductive process. The overall theme of participants' responses was that HEELP helped them reprogramme their lifestyle behaviours to achieve weight loss. The programme was unique compared with other weight loss programmes because it was delivered and developed by familiar and expert health professionals who tailored the programme to participants' health status. Themes included the process of recognizing and deciding to make a commitment to managing their weight problem and feeling supported by the group and the staff to do this. Participants valued the group‐based structure and the specific tools used in the programme. The programme content and structure provides a framework for the development of supplemental programmes for overweight and obese people at high cardiovascular risk.
Status of costing hospital nursing work within Australian casemix activity‐based funding policy
Authors: Heslop Liza
Published: January 2012

Heslop L. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 2–6

Status of costing hospital nursing work within Australian casemix activity‐based funding policy

Australia has a long history of patient level costing initiated when casemix funding was implemented in several states in the early 1990s. Australia includes, to some extent, hospital payment based on nursing intensity adopted within casemix funding policy and the Diagnostic Related Group system. Costing of hospital nursing services in Australia has not changed significantly in the last few decades despite widespread introduction of casemix funding policy at the state level. Recent Commonwealth of Australia National Health Reform presents change to the management of the delivery of health care including health‐care costing. There is agreement for all Australian jurisdictions to progress to casemix‐based activity funding. Within this context, nurse costing infrastructure presents contemporary issues and challenges. An assessment is made of the progress of costing nursing services within casemix funding models in Australian hospitals. Valid and reliable Australian‐refined nursing service weights might overcome present cost deficiencies and limitations.
Recruitment challenges and recommendations for adolescent obesity trials
Authors: Nguyen Binh , McGregor Kristy A , O'Connor Janice , Shrewsbury Vanessa A , Lee Anthea , Steinbeck Katharine S , Hill Andrew J , Shah Smita , Kohn Michael R , Baur Louise A
Published: January 2012

Aim:  To report our experiences with recruiting overweight and obese 13‐ to 16‐year‐olds for the Loozit® weight management randomised control trial (RCT) and to identify effective strategies for recruiting adolescents from the community to a treatment trial.

Methods:  The Loozit RCT is a two‐arm, community‐based, lifestyle intervention that aims to evaluate the effect of additional therapeutic contact provided via telephone coaching and electronic communications as an adjunct to the Loozit group programme. Strategic areas that were targeted to recruit adolescents included media, schools, health professionals and community organisations. The programme aimed to recruit a cohort of 12–16 adolescents (body mass index z‐score range 1.0–2.5) aged 13–16 years every 3 months over 3 years. Information regarding recruitment and eligibility to participate was initially assessed during a telephone screen. The relative cost effectiveness of recruitment strategies was determined based on recruitment rates and costs including administrative costs and research assistant time.

Results:  Out of 474 enquiries, 32% resulted in an enrolment to the RCT. Newspaper articles and school newsletters accounted for nearly 60% of enquiries and enrolments and were the most cost‐effective recruitment strategies. Common reasons for ineligibility for inclusion in the RCT were adolescents being too young (21%) and parents consenting but adolescents refusing to participate (17%).

Conclusions:  The most successful recruitment strategies for the Loozit RCT were local newspapers and school newsletters. Future studies should consider involving a Public Relations department and other potentially cost‐effective strategies such as peer recruitment.
Anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidant effects of grape seed proanthocyanidin extract in preventing cyclosporine A‐induced nephropathy
Authors: ULUSOY SUKRU , OZKAN GULSUM , YUCESAN FULYA BALABAN , ERSÖZ ŞAFAK , OREM ASIM , ALKANAT MEHMET , YULUĞ ESIN , KAYNAR KUBRA , AL SAIT
Published: January 2012

Aim:  Although the pathogenesis of cyclosporine (CsA) nephropathy is not completely understood, it is attributed to oxidative damage and apoptosis. Grape seed proanthocyanidin extract (GSPE) is a molecule with anti‐oxidant and anti‐apoptotic properties. Our aim was to demonstrate the effects of GSPE in preventing CsA nephropathy.

Methods:  Twenty‐four Sprague–Dawley rats were divided into four groups. The control, GSPE, CsA and CsA+GSPE groups were given 1 mL olive oil, 100 mg/kg GSPE, 25 mg/kg CsA and 100 mg/kg GSPE+25 mg/kg CsA, respectively. On day 21, blood samples were taken for blood urea nitrogen (BUN), creatinine and CsA levels, and renal tissue was used for total oxidant system (TOS), total anti‐oxidant system (TAS), oxidative stress index (OSI) and malondialdehyde (MDA) measurements. In addition to renal histopathology, apoptosis staining was performed on renal tissue.

Results:  The BUN, creatinine, TOS, OSI, MDA, histopathological score, and apoptotic index exhibited increases in the CsA group. In the CsA+GSPE group, however, BUN, creatinine, OSI, MDA, renal histopathological score and apoptotic index (AI) decreased and TAS levels increased. In addition, there was no difference between the CsA and CsA+GSPE groups with regard to CsA levels.

Conclusion:  We demonstrated that GSPE prevents CsA nephropathy and that this effect is achieved by anti‐apoptotic and anti‐oxidant activity. We also achieved a significant recovery in kidney functions without affecting CsA plasma levels.
Usefulness of reminiscence therapy for community mental health
Authors: Fujiwara Ema , Otsuka Kotaro , Sakai Akio , Hoshi Katsuhito , Sekiai Seiko , Kamisaki Makoto , Ishikawa Yumiko , Iwato Sayaka , Chida Fuminori
Published: January 2012

Reminiscence therapy workshops for health‐care professionals (total, n = 105: four trainees in their 20, seven in their 30s, 13 in their 40s, 30 in their 50s, 41 in their 60, five in their 70s, one in their 80s, and four of unknown age) were held, and group work with reminiscence therapy was provided to local residents (total, n = 151; mean age, 73.6 ± 10.6 years). Comparison of pre‐ and post‐workshop questionnaires showed that rates of interest and understanding of trainees increased after the workshop. Concerning group work, 89.2% of the participants felt that reminiscence therapy would prove helpful in their life. Reminiscence therapy may be useful in improving mental health in local residents.
Efficacy of inhaled N‐acetylcysteine monotherapy in patients with early stage idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis
Authors: HOMMA SAKAE , AZUMA ARATA , TANIGUCHI HIROYUKI , OGURA TAKASHI , MOCHIDUKI YOSHIRO , SUGIYAMA YUKIHIKO , NAKATA KOICHIRO , YOSHIMURA KUNIHIKO , TAKEUCHI MASAHIRO , KUDOH SHOJI ,   THE JAPAN NAC CLINICAL STUDY GROUP
Published: January 2012

Background and objective:  Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a fatal disorder for which there are currently no specific or effective medical treatments. A multicentre, prospective, randomized, controlled clinical trial was conducted to assess the efficacy of inhaled N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) monotherapy in Japanese patients with early stage IPF.

Methods:  Eligible patients had well‐defined IPF of mild‐to‐moderate severity, with no desaturation on exercise. Of 100 patients screened, 76 were randomly assigned to an NAC treatment group (group A; n = 38) that received 352.4 mg of NAC by inhalation twice daily or to a control group (group B; n = 38) that received no therapy. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline in forced vital capacity (FVC) at 48 weeks.

Results:  There were no significant overall differences in the change in FVC between groups A and B. Post hoc exploratory analyses showed that NAC therapy was associated with stability of FVC in (i) a subset of patients with initial FVC <95% of predicted (n = 49; difference in FVC decline 0.12 L; P = 0.02) and (ii) in patients with initial diffusing capacity of carbon monoxide <55% of predicted (n = 21; difference in FVC decline 0.17 L; P = 0.009).

Conclusions:  These findings indicate that NAC monotherapy may have some beneficial effect in patients with early stage IPF. Further trials in more select IPF populations with progressive disease are required to prove the efficacy of inhaled NAC.
Efficacy of patient information concerning casts applied post‐fracture
Authors: Hossieny Parastu , Carey Smith Richard , Yates Piers , Carroll Graeme
Published: January 2012

Introduction:  Serious complications can result when casts are used for bone immobilization following fracture. Adequate patient information regarding cast care and possible complications is vital for prevention. This study examines the effectiveness of verbal and written patient information regarding cast safety.

Methods:  Patients (n= 109; age ≥18 years) from three Western Australian teaching hospitals were interviewed using a custom‐designed questionnaire. Patients' understanding of cast care and possible complications were tested by recall of seven categories of information, notably: pain, swelling, cast care, itching, neural signs, vascular signs/symptoms, exercise/rest. A follow‐up phone call (3–8 weeks after initial interview) was conducted to elicit complications and determine information recall.

Results:  Written information was received by 62% of patients; however, overall, only 35% claimed to have read the information provided. Of these, the highest recall was in four of seven information categories. A high proportion of those given only verbal information had poor recall (≤2 categories, defined a priori). In contrast, patients who also received written information had better recall (three or more categories, defined a priori, P= 0.031). Four of the 109 patients developed complications attributable to the cast (three had pressure ulcers and one had a deep vein thrombosis).

Conclusion:  Patient recall of information concerning cast care and possible complications was no more than 60%. The provision of written information was associated with a significantly higher awareness of possible complications. The results indicate that for fracture care, the delivery and use of information protocols can be greatly improved.
Results from the Australasian Vascular Surgical Audit: the inaugural year
Authors: Beiles C. Barry , Bourke Bernie , Thomson Ian
Published: January 2012

The Australian and New Zealand Society for Vascular Surgery has incorporated a constitutional change to administer a self‐funded compulsory vascular surgery audit since January 2010. This is a bi‐national quality assurance activity that captures all procedures performed in both countries. Data is collected at two points in the clinical admission; at operation and at discharge and data entry is via the Internet. Security is stringent and confidentiality is guaranteed by Commonwealth privilege. Data privacy is maximized by encryption. The application is flexible and administered by a dedicated administrator with a help‐desk facility. Reports are available to provide real‐time feedback of user performance compared with the peer group data in key categories of arterial surgery. A structured hierarchy for data management has been established to assess four main categories of performance: mortality after aortic surgery, stroke and death after carotid surgery, patency and limb salvage after infrainguinal bypass and patency after arteriovenous access for haemodialysis. Data is analysed using risk‐adjustment techniques and an algorithm for management of underperformance has been followed. Data validation has been performed. The outcomes in all categories have been of a high standard and correction of erroneous data in a single statistical outlier has negated underperformance. The audit has captured only 65% of the estimated procedures in Australia in the first year, but data quality is good. The feasibility of a complete compulsory bi‐national audit has now been established and will be the benchmark for other craft groups in the current environment of accountability.
What causes latitudinal gradients in species diversity? Evolutionary processes and ecological constraints on swallowtail biodiversity
Authors: Condamine Fabien L. , Sperling Felix A. H. , Wahlberg Niklas , Rasplus Jean‐Yves , Kergoat Gael J.
Published: January 2012

Ecology Letters (2012)

The latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG) is one of the most striking ecological patterns on our planet. Determining the evolutionary causes of this pattern remains a challenging task. To address this issue, previous LDG studies have usually relied on correlations between environmental variables and species richness, only considering evolutionary processes indirectly. Instead, we use a phylogenetically integrated approach to investigate the ecological and evolutionary processes responsible for the global LDG observed in swallowtail butterflies (Papilionidae). We find evidence for the ‘diversification rate hypothesis’ with different diversification rates between two similarly aged tropical and temperate clades. We conclude that the LDG is caused by (1) climatically driven changes in both clades based on evidence of responses to cooling and warming events, and (2) distinct biogeographical histories constrained by tropical niche conservatism and niche evolution. This multidisciplinary approach provides new findings that allow better understanding of the factors that shape LDGs.
Sensilla on maxillary and labial palps in a helicophagous ground beetle larva (Coleoptera, Carabidae)
Authors: Giglio Anita , Perrotta Enrico , Talarico Federica , Zetto Brandmayr Tullia , Ferrero Enrico A.
Published: January 2012

Sensilla on the labial and maxillary palp of Carabus lefebvrei Dejean, 1826 larvae were investigated using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. Two identical sets of sensilla were present on the tips of both palp pairs, and four morphological types of sensilla were identified: sensilla basiconica types 1 and 2, sensilla coeloconica and sensilla digitiformia. Ultrastructure indicates that the sensilla basiconica type 1 and coeloconica have a chemical role as gustatory and olfactory receptors, respectively, while sensilla basiconica type 2 are mechanoreceptors and the sensilla digitiformia are probably thermo‐ and hygroreceptors. Their function is discussed in relation to specialized prey detection and habitat adaptations.
The effects of interference on recognition of haptic pictures in blindfolded sighted participants: The modality of representation of haptic information
Authors: HOLTBY REBECCA C. , D’ANGIULLI AMEDEO
Published: January 2012

Holtby, R. C. & D’Angiulli, A. (2012). The effects of interference on recognition of haptic pictures in blindfolded sighted participants: The modality of representation of haptic information. Scandinavian Journal of Psychology 53, 112–118.

Haptic picture recognition was tested in 36 undergraduate students to determine whether haptic representations are visual or multi‐modal. Participants explored target haptic pictures and were asked to recognize the target from three alternatives. Each participant completed eight control and eight interference trials in visual, lexical and tactile recognition modalities. For interference, participants were assigned to either an articulatory suppression (repeat “the” at a constant rate) or a visual interference (watch a visual display) condition, to prevent recoding into a verbal or visual code. The results showed that accuracy was higher at control compared to interference trials and for tactile compared to lexical recognition. Additionally, lexical and tactile recognition decreased with articulatory suppression whereas only tactile recognition decreased with visual interference. These findings suggest that haptic pictures may be represented by coordinating visual and verbal codes.
SPECTERS OF THE NINETEENTH CENTURY: Charles Taylor and the Problem of Historicism
Authors: Woodford Peter
Published: January 2012

This paper identifies and analyzes the problem of historicism in Charles Taylor's work overall, but with particular emphasis on his most recent publication, A Secular Age. I circumscribe the problem of historicism through reference to the nineteenth‐century German philosophical tradition in which it developed, in particular in the thought of Wilhelm Dilthey. I then trace the structural similarities between the notions of history to be found in the thought of Taylor and Dilthey and how these structural similarities raise worries associated with the problem of historicism. I argue that the structural aporia of historicism evident in Taylor's work brings to light a live philosophical problem that is basic to theoretical debates in the study religion.
The rate of HIV testing is increasing among men who have sex with men in China
Authors: Chow EPF , Wilson DP , Zhang L
Published: January 2012

Objectives

HIV infection is spreading relatively quickly among men who have sex with men (MSM) in China. Accurate knowledge of HIV status is of high importance for public health prevention.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of literature published in either English or Chinese to collate available HIV testing data among MSM in China. Linear regression and Spearman's rank correlation were used to study factors associated with HIV testing rates.

Results

Fifty‐five eligible articles were identified in this review. The proportion of MSM who had ever been tested for HIV has significantly increased, from 10.8% in 2002 to 51.2% in 2009. In comparison, reported rates of HIV testing in the past 12 months have also significantly increased, from 11.0% in 2003 to 43.7% in 2009.

Conclusions

Chinese MSM have relatively low HIV testing rates compared with MSM in other settings. It is important to continue to promote HIV testing among MSM in China.
Micro‐CT scanning provides insight into the functional morphology of millipede genitalia
Authors: Wojcieszek J. M. , Austin P. , Harvey M. S. , Simmons L. W.
Published: January 2012

Few studies investigating genital evolution examine the functional morphology of genitalia. In this study, we snap‐froze copulating pairs of the millipede Antichiropus variabilis and used micro‐computed tomography (CT) scanning and traditional light microscopy to investigate the mechanical interactions of male and female genitalia during copulation. The male genitalia of A. variabilis appear to function as lock‐and‐key structures, used in species mate recognition and species isolation. The female genitalia were complex in structure, and different sections of the male gonopods penetrated specific sections of the female genitalia. Morphological investigations confirmed a high degree of mechanical correspondence between male and female genitalia, as might be expected for a lock‐and‐key character. We discuss why genital shape is important in fertilization success for A. variabilis and present a novel application of micro‐CT scanning that is widely applicable to other studies of genital evolution.
The Paradox of Participation: A Case Study on Urban Planning in Favelas and a Plea for Autonomy
Authors: KAPP SILKE , BALTAZAR ANA PAULA
Published: January 2012

The participatory planning method called Plano Global Específico (PGE; Specific Global Plan) has been used in Belo Horizonte, Brazil since 1995 for interventions in favelas (spontaneous settlements). Although the responsible municipal agency describes it optimistically, inhabitants have manifested significant discontent. This article focuses on the reasons for this controversy, analysing the PGE method against the background of Brazilian re‐democratisation and Belo Horizonte's public policies for favelas. The article argues that institutionalised participation does not favour the qualitative leap towards citizen control or autonomy, but is essentially attached to heteronomous planning structures.