bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of a brief condom promotion program in reducing risky sexual behaviours among African American men
Authors: Kennedy Stephen B. , Nolen Sherry , Pan Zhenfeng , Smith Betty , Applewhite Jeffrey , Vanderhoff Kenneth J.
Published: March 2012

Rationale  The prevention of human immunodeficiency virus/sexually transmitted diseases remains a significant global public health issue, especially among vulnerable populations.

Aims and objectives  To promote condom use skills among young urban African American men.

Methods  As a pilot study, a randomized controlled trial was conducted among 136 African American men aged 18–24 years recruited from urban communities in Chicago. Participants assigned to the intervention received 45–60 minutes of a one‐on‐one single‐session condom promotion program delivered by trained facilitators while those assigned to the attention‐matched comparison condition received a general health program. Longitudinally, 115 (85%) and 120 (88%) participants completed the 3‐month and 6‐month follow‐up surveys, respectively.

Results  Overall, the study results indicate that positive effects were observed from baseline to 6‐month follow‐up for intervention participants relative to comparison condition participants for prior condom use (1.23–1.82 versus 1.34–0.97); condom use intention (2.51–3.19 versus 2.69–2.21); perceived condom availability (3.44–3.72 versus 3.42–3.38); positive reasons to use condoms (2.82–3.08 versus 2.95–1.99); favourable condom use attitude (2.41–2.69 versus 2.49–1.95); barriers to condom use (1.33–0.79 versus 1.25–1.85); and negative condom use attitude (1.45–0.66 versus 1.33–1.39), respectively.

Conclusions  We conclude that a brief single‐session condom promotion program is effective in preventing high‐risk sexual behaviours among urban young adult African American men.
Population genomics as a new tool for wildlife management
Authors: GOMPERT ZACHARIAH
Published: March 2012

Admixture and introgression have varied effects on population viability and fitness. Admixture might be an important source of new alleles, particularly for small, geographically isolated populations. However, admixture might also cause outbreeding depression if populations are adapted to different ecological or climatic conditions. Because of the emerging use of translocation and admixture as a conservation and wildlife management strategy to reduce genetic load (termed genetic rescue), the possible effects of admixture have practical consequences (Bouzat et al. 2009; Hedrick & Fredrickson 2010). Importantly, genetic load and local adaptation are properties of individual loci and epistatic interactions among loci rather than properties of genomes. Likewise, the outcome and consequences of genetic rescue depend on the fitness effects of individual introduced alleles. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Miller et al. (2012) use model‐based, population genomic analyses to document locus‐specific effects of a recent genetic rescue in the bighorn sheep population within the National Bison Range wildlife refuge (NBR; Montana, USA). They find a subset of introduced alleles associated with increased fitness in NBR bighorn sheep, some of which experienced accelerated introgression following their introduction. These loci mark regions of the genome that could constitute the genetic basis of the successful NBR bighorn sheep genetic rescue. Although population genomic analyses are frequently used to study local adaptation and selection (e.g. Hohenlohe et al. 2010; Lawniczak et al. 2010), this study constitutes a novel application of this analytical framework for wildlife management. Moreover, the detailed demographic data available for the NBR bighorn sheep population provide a rare and powerful source of information and allow more robust population genomic inference than is often possible.
The memory remains: application of historical DNA for scaling biodiversity loss
Authors: NIELSEN EINAR E. , BEKKEVOLD DORTE
Published: March 2012

Few species worldwide have attracted as much attention in relation to conservation and sustainable management as Pacific salmon. Most populations have suffered significant reductions, many have disappeared, and even entire evolutionary significant units (ESUs) are believed to have been lost. Until now, no ‘smoking gun’ in terms of direct genetic evidence of the loss of a salmon ESU has been produced. In this issue of Molecular Ecology, Iwamoto et al. (2012) use microsatellite analysis of historical scale samples of Columbia River sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) from 1924 (Fig. 1) to ask the pertinent question: Do the historical samples contain salmon from extirpated populations or ESUs? They identified four genetic groups in the historical samples of which two were almost genetically identical to contemporary ESUs in the river, one showed genetic relationship with a third ESU, but one group was not related to any of the contemporary populations. In association with ecological data, the genetic results suggest that an early migrating Columbia River headwater sockeye salmon ESU has been extirpated. The study has significant importance for conservation and reestablishment of sockeye populations in the Columbia River, but also underpins the general significance of shifting baselines in conservation biology, and how to assess loss of genetic biodiversity. The results clearly illustrate the huge and versatile potential of using historical DNA in population and conservation genetics. Because of the extraordinarily plentiful historical samples and rapid advances in fish genomics, fishes are likely to spearhead future studies of temporal ecological and population genomics in non‐model organisms.

 (a) Kokanee sampling site between Columbia and Windermere lakes on the upper Columbia River at Fairmont Hot Springs, British Columbia, Canada. (b) Bureau of Fisheries scale books that contained sockeye salmon (locally called ‘blueback’ salmon) scales collected from commercial fisheries during the 1920s in the lower Columbia River. (c) Kokanee on spawning beds in Kuskanax Creek, a tributary to Upper Arrow Lake, British Columbia. Photo credit Rick Gustafson and Jim Myers.

image
Community assembly, species richness and nestedness of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in agricultural soils
Authors: VERBRUGGEN ERIK , Van Der HEIJDEN MARCEL G. A. , WEEDON JAMES T. , KOWALCHUK GEORGE A. , RÖLING WILFRED F. M.
Published: March 2012

Understanding how communities assemble is a central goal of ecology. This is particularly relevant for communities of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF), because the community composition of these beneficial plant symbionts influences important ecosystem processes. Moreover, AMF may be used as sensitive indicators of ecological soil quality if they respond to environmental variation in a predictable way. Here, we use a molecular profiling technique (T‐RFLP of 25S rRNA gene fragments) to test which factors determine AM fungal community composition in 40 agricultural soils in the Netherlands. In particular, we test whether species richness, dominance structure and community nestedness are influenced by management type (in pairs of organically and conventionally farmed fields), and we examine the contribution of crop species (maize vs. potato), soil type (sand vs. clay‐textured soils) and habitat (plant root vs. bulk soil) on AMF community characteristics. AMF richness varied from 1 to 11 taxa per field. Communities from species‐poor fields were found to be subsets of those in richer fields, indicating nestedness and a progressive ‘loss’ from the species pool. AMF taxa richness and occurrence in soil and plant roots were highly correlated, and richness was related to management intensity (phosphate availability and grass‐cropping history together explained 32% and 50% of richness in roots and soils). Soil type together with soil chemical parameters explained only 17% of variance in AMF community structure. We synthesize these results by discussing the potential contribution of a ‘bottleneck effect’ on AMF communities through increased stochastic effects under environmental stress.
Migration patterns and changes in population biology associated with the worldwide spread of the oilseed rape pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans
Authors: DILMAGHANI A. , GLADIEUX P. , GOUT L. , GIRAUD T. , BRUNNER P. C. , STACHOWIAK A. , BALESDENT M.‐H. , ROUXEL T.
Published: March 2012

Pathogen introductions into novel areas can lead to the emergence of new fungal diseases of plants. Understanding the origin, introduction pathways, possible changes in reproductive system and population size of fungal pathogens is essential in devising an integrated strategy for the control of these diseases. We used minisatellite markers to infer the worldwide invasion history of the fungal plant pathogen Leptosphaeria maculans, which causes stem canker (blackleg) of oilseed and vegetable brassicas. Clustering analyses partitioned genotypes into distinct populations corresponding to major geographic regions, along with two differentiated populations in Western Canada. Comparison of invasion scenarios using Approximate Bayesian Computation suggested an origin of the pathogen in the USA, the region where epidemics were first recorded, and independent introductions from there over the last few decades into Eastern Canada (Ontario), Europe and Australia. The population in Western Canada appeared to be founded from a source in Ontario and the population in Chile resulted from an admixture between multiple sources. A bottleneck was inferred for the introduction into Western Canada but not into Europe, Ontario or Australia. Clonality appeared high in Western Canada, possibly because environmental conditions there were less conducive to sexual reproduction. Leptosphaeria maculans is a model invasive pathogen with contrasting features in different regions: shallow population structure, high genetic variability and regular sexual recombination in some regions, by comparison with reduced genetic variability, high rates of asexual multiplication, strong population structure or admixture in others.
Serotonin transporter gene promoter region polymorphisms and serotonin transporter expression in the colonic mucosa of irritable bowel syndrome patients
Authors: Wang Y. M. , Chang Y. , Chang Y. Y. , Cheng J. , Li J. , Wang T. , Zhang Q. Y. , Liang D. C. , Sun B. , Wang B. M.
Published: March 2012

Background  The role of serotonin transporter (SERT) gene polymorphism in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) has been demonstrated. However, the expression of SERT mRNA and proteins in the colonic mucosa with different 5‐HTT gene‐linked polymorphic region (5‐HTTLPR) genotypes remains unknown. We examined SERT mRNA and protein levels in colon biopsies from patients with different 5‐HTTLPR genotypes and evaluated the links between the polymorphism and the expression levels.

Methods  Two hundred and fifty‐four patients with IBS and 120 healthy subjects were studied. DNA samples were extracted from peripheral blood and genotyped by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). SERT mRNA and protein levels were evaluated by quantitative real time PCR and western blotting. The promoter efficiency of the serotonin transporter promoter (SERT‐P) was evaluated with luciferase reporter system.

Key Results  The frequency of the L/L genotype in C‐IBS group was significantly higher than that in the control and D‐IBS. However, the S/S genotype in D‐IBS was significantly higher than that in C‐IBS. The transcriptional efficiency of the L/L genotype was significantly higher than that in the L/S and S/S genotype. Patients with the L/L genotype demonstrated increased production of the SERT protein when compared with L/S and S/S patients. The l variant increased SERT promoter activity by 2.43‐fold when compared with the s variant.

Conclusions & Inferences  Polymorphism in the promoter region of the SERT gene can influence the expression of SERT mRNA and the levels of the SERT protein in the colonic mucosa, thereby playing a key role in motility‐related symptoms of IBS patients.
Rice RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase 6 acts in small RNA biogenesis and spikelet development
Authors: Song Xianwei , Wang Dekai , Ma Lijia , Chen Zhiyu , Li Pingchuan , Cui Xia , Liu Chunyan , Cao Shouyun , Chu Chengcai , Tao Yuezhi , Cao Xiaofeng
Published: March 2012

Higher plants have evolved multiple RNA‐dependent RNA polymerases (RDRs), which work with Dicer‐like (DCL) proteins to produce different classes of small RNAs with specialized molecular functions. Here we report that OsRDR6, the rice (Oryza sativa L.) homolog of Arabidopsis RDR6, acts in the biogenesis of various types and sizes of small RNAs. We isolated a rice osrdr6‐1 mutant, which was temperature sensitive and showed spikelet defects. This mutant displays reduced accumulation of tasiR‐ARFs, the conserved trans‐acting siRNAs (tasiRNAs) derived from the TAS3 locus, and ectopic expression of tasiR‐ARF target genes, the Auxin Response Factors (including ARF2 and ARF3/ETTIN). The loss of tasiR‐mediated repression of ARFs in osrdr6‐1 can explain its morphological defects, as expression of two non‐targeted ARF3 gene constructs (ARF3muts) in a wild‐type background mimics the osrdr6 and osdcl4‐1 mutant phenotypes. Small RNA high‐throughput sequencing also reveals that besides tasiRNAs, 21‐nucleotide (nt) phased small RNAs are also largely dependent on OsRDR6. Unexpectedly, we found that osrdr6‐1 has a strong impact on the accumulation of 24‐nt phased small RNAs, but not on unphased ones. Our work uncovers the key roles of OsRDR6 in small RNA biogenesis and directly illustrates the crucial functions of tasiR‐ARFs in rice development.
Dermatophyte infections mimicking other skin diseases: a 154‐person case survey of tinea atypica in the district of Cagliari (Italy)
Authors: Atzori Laura , Pau Monica , Aste Natalia , Aste Nicola
Published: March 2012

Background  Although usually simple, the diagnosis of dermatophyte infection is sometimes neglected. An observational study has been realized to evaluate the role of corticosteroid exposure (tinea incognito) and of other primary characteristics of the dermatophytosis that from onset mimic other diseases and mislead an unexperienced physician.

Materials and methods  Between 1990 and 2009, all cases of atypical dermatophytosis mimicking other skin diseases were collected from the more general number of dermatophyte infections diagnosed at the Dermatology Department of Cagliari University, Italy.

Results  One‐hundred and fifty‐four cases (71 male/83 female, 2–81 years old) were studied, with a median of 7 cases/year. The most observed clinical forms were those mimicking impetigo, eczematous dermatitis, lupus erythematosus, polymorphous light eruption, psoriasis, and rosacea. The identified dermatophytes were: Microsporum canis (70 cases), Trichophyton rubrum (43 cases), Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. mentagrophytes (29 cases), Trichophyton mentagrophytes var. interdigitale (six cases), Microsporum gypseum (three cases), Epidermophyton floccosum (two cases), and Trichophyton verrucosum (one case). Diagnostic difficulties are discussed, with special attention to the origin of the pathomorphosis.

Conclusions  In our experience, clinical atypia is not a mere consequence of corticosteroid therapy but present at the very onset of the illness, due to the variable dermatophyte invasive capacity, the site of invasion, physiological individual, and/or acquired condition, such as excessive washing or sun exposure. Therefore, we suggest using the term “tinea atypica” rather than “tinea incognito” to include all forms of dermatophytosis that do not present the classic features for both primary and secondary pathomorphosis.
The roles of cells and cytokines in the pathogenesis of psoriasis
Authors: Coimbra Susana , Figueiredo Américo , Castro Elisabeth , Rocha‐Pereira Petronila , Santos‐Silva Alice
Published: March 2012

Psoriasis is considered an immune chronic disease in which T cells are accepted as important. Nowadays, it is believed that psoriasis is most likely a T helper (Th)1/Th17 induced inflammatory disease. However, some other cells, such as endothelial cells, dendritic cells, monocytic cells, neutrophils, keratinocytes, and several cytokines, appear to have, at different stages of the disease, an important role in its pathogenesis. For instance, the response to psoriasis therapy is dependent not only on the inactivation of Th1 and Th17 immune responses but also on the inactivation of dendritic cell products. Moreover, interleukin (IL)‐23 deregulation appears to be an independent factor in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. Indeed, currently, the IL‐23/Th17 axis is believed to be crucial in psoriasis pathogenesis, and its inhibition appears to be important for therapeutic achievement. This review presents the roles and interactions of cells and cytokines that are related to psoriasis pathogenesis.
Facial extensive recurrent basal cell carcinoma: successful treatment with photodynamic therapy and imiquimod 5% cream
Authors: Requena Celia , Messeguer Francesc , Llombart Beatriz , Serra‐Guillén Carlos , Guillén Carlos
Published: March 2012

Background  Management of facial extensive recurrent basal cell carcinoma can be a challenge for dermatologists. Although the preferred technique is usually Mohs surgery, sometimes the patient’s condition or predicted aggressive surgery make other options advisable.

Methods  We describe a case of a giant recurrent basal cell carcinoma in the face of an old woman successfully treated by combined therapy with MAL‐photodynamic therapy and topical 5%.

Results  The patient remains well and with no sign of the tumor, with very good cosmetic result two years after treatment.

Conclusions  Management of extensive facial basal cell carcinoma with combined therapies, as photodynamic therapy followed by topical imiquimod, can be an option for selected cases such as ours.
Comparative evaluation of griseofulvin, terbinafine and fluconazole in the treatment of tinea capitis
Authors: Grover Chander , Arora Pooja , Manchanda Vikas
Published: March 2012

Tinea capitis (TC) is a common childhood fungal infection which, if untreated, can cause long‐term scarring. A number of antifungal drugs with proven efficacy are available for the treatment of TC. However, varying dosage schedules, changes in epidemiology, and rising drug resistance are factors that hamper treatment in some cases. A prospective, non‐blinded, cross‐sectional study of three commonly used drugs (terbinafine, griseofulvin, and fluconazole) was undertaken in children aged ≤12 years, presenting to a pediatric superspecialty hospital. The comparative efficacies of these three drugs were evaluated. A total of 75 patients (25 in each treatment group) who completed the designated treatment protocol were included in the final analysis. Of these, 60% had non‐inflammatory TC and 56% had an ectothrix pattern on hair microscopy. Trichophyton violaceum was the most commonly isolated fungus. Cure rates of 96%, 88%, and 84% were achieved with griseofulvin, terbinafine, and fluconazole, respectively. Overall, seven patients required prolonged therapy. No side effects to therapy were seen. Griseofulvin remains the drug of choice in the treatment of TC. Terbinafine was the second best agent and offered the advantage of a shorter course of therapy. Fluconazole had comparatively low cure rates but was easier to administer than the other two medications.
Unusual clinical presentation of sporotrichosis in three members of one family
Authors: Falqueto Aloisio , Bravim Maifrede Simone , Araujo Ribeiro Mariceli
Published: March 2012

Introduction  Sporotrichosis is a mycosis caused by the dimorphic fungus Sporothrix spp., and the primary mode of transmission is traumatic inoculation of fungus conidia from plants and other organic matter.

Methods  Sporotrichosis was established in a cat and in three members of one family from a rural area, by fungal growth in culture.

Results  The cutaneous lesions developed on the lower buttock and limbs with no report of any injury.

Conclusion  Although sporotrichosis should be considered for differential diagnosis in people working with soil and plants, cases of chronic lesions on skin of cats and in households is probably a new epidemiological approach in a given geographic region.
Nonirritant intradermal skin test concentrations of ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, and rifampicin
Authors: Brož P. , Harr Th. , Hecking C. , Grize L. , Scherer K. , Jaeger K. A. , Bircher A. J.
Published: March 2012

Background

Intradermal skin testing of the clinically important antibiotics ciprofloxacin, clarithromycin, and rifampicin in the case of suspected allergies to antibiotics is poorly standardized. For clinical practice, standardized procedures and protocols are desired.

Methods

Fifteen healthy volunteers were tested with different concentrations of the antibiotics as well as with appropriate controls. Test readings included wheal area measured by digital image analysis and blood flow increase measured by laser Doppler flowmetry (LDF). To reduce interpersonal variability, test results were normalized with the individual controls using a novel protocol.

Results

Nonirritating concentrations of the three antibiotics (ciprofloxacin ~0.0067 mg/ml, clarithromycin ~0.05 mg/ml, rifampicin ~0.002 mg/ml) could be defined for healthy volunteers. Laser Doppler flowmetry generates comparable results to wheal area measurement. Normalization of the test results is necessary and can be applied in a practical algorithm.

Conclusions

Standardized skin testing to detect sensitization to broadly used nonbetalactam antibiotics was presented and should be applied in truly sensitized patients. This approach should help to minimize the inter‐ and intraindividual differences in reactivity.
Practical dietary management of protein energy malnutrition in young children with cow’s milk protein allergy
Authors: Meyer Rosan , Venter Carina , Fox Adam T. , Shah Neil
Published: March 2012

To cite this article: Meyer R, Venter C, Fox AT, Shah N. Practical dietary management of protein energy malnutrition in young children with cow’s milk protein allergy. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2012: 23: 307–314.

Cow’s milk protein allergy (CMPA) affects between 1.9 and 4.9% of infants and young children. This food allergy requires the complete elimination of cow’s milk and its derivatives, impacting on nutritional status. The risk of having protein energy malnutrition (PEM) in children with CMPA has been well documented. In 2007, the World Health Organisation published guidelines on the dietary management of PEM, which has impacted on the recommendations and composition on specialist feeds for many chronic diseases, but not on CMPA. The main change in management of the child with PEM is the protein energy ratio and energy requirements. The ideal protein energy ratio lies between 8.9 and 11.5%, which would ensure a deposition of about 70% lean and 30% fat mass. In addition, for optimal catch‐up growth between 5 and 10 g/kg/day, energy requirements should be between 105 and 126 kcal/kg/day. Although most current hypoallergenic formulas fall well within the recommendation for protein, there is a problem in achieving energy requirements. As a result, modular additions are often made, disturbing the protein energy ratio or feeds are concentrated, which impacts on osmolality. We therefore aimed to review current guidelines on PEM and how these can be applied in the management of the malnourished child with CMPA.
The effect of cigarette smoking on allergic conditions in Maltese children (ISAAC)
Authors: Montefort Stephen , Ellul Pierre , Montefort Maxine , Caruana Simone , Grech Victor , Agius Muscat Hugo
Published: March 2012

To cite this article: Montefort S, Ellul P, Montefort M, Caruana S, Grech V, Agius Muscat H. The effect of cigarette smoking on allergic conditions in Maltese children (ISAAC). Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2012: 23: 472–478.

Maltese children are frequently exposed to tobacco smoke through passive and personal smoking. In the Phase 3 ISAAC study questionnaire, we enquired about passive smoking to the parents of 3816 (80% response rate) 5‐ to 8‐yr‐old children and about passive and personal smoking to 4139 (90% response rate) 13‐ to 15‐yr‐old participating children. Thirty‐one percent of 5‐ to 8‐yr olds were passive smokers with their father more likely to be the smoker (p < 0.0001). Maternal smoking in the first year of the child’s life resulted in the children having an increased chance of wheezing ‘ever’ (p < 0.001), exercise‐induced wheezing (p < 0.05) and being diagnosed with asthma (p < 0.0001). Current smoking by the mother also led to the child having current rhinitis (p < 0.001). Fifty‐one percent of 13‐ to 15‐yr olds were passive smokers again with the father more likely to be the smoker (p < 0.0001). Maternal (p < 0.0001) and paternal smoking (p < 0.05) resulted in the children having an increased chance of wheezing sometime in their life, exercise‐induced wheezing, nocturnal cough, and being diagnosed with asthma. Current smoking by the mother was more common in children having current rhinitis (p < 0.05), while current smoking by both mother and/or father led to itchy/watery eyes accompanying rhinitis (p < 0.05). Recurrent itchy rashes were also more likely in passive smokers (p < 0.001). Personal smoking by the 13‐ to 15‐yr olds (8.15% boys vs. 8.8% girls ns ) resulted in a higher cumulative prevalence of wheezing (p < 0.0001), rhinitis (p < 0.05), and recurrent itchy rash (p < 0.001) but only affected current prevalence of wheezing (p < 0.0001). These smokers were more likely to experience exercise‐induced wheezing (p < 0.0001), nocturnal cough (p < 0.0001), and being diagnosed with asthma (p < 0.05) and eczema (p < 0.001). Children smoking more than 10 cigarettes/day persisted with wheezing (p = 0.04) had more frequent episodes of exercise‐induced wheeze (p = 0.04), nocturnal cough (p < 0.0001), and rhinoconjunctivitis (p = 0.02) than milder smokers. Smoking seems to be affecting childhood allergies in Maltese children quite significantly.
The 2002–2007 trends of prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema in Irish schoolchildren
Authors: Duggan Eileen M. , Sturley Jennifer , Fitzgerald Anthony P. , Perry Ivan J. , Hourihane Jonathan O’B.
Published: March 2012

To cite this article: Duggan EM, Sturley J, Fitzgerald AP, Perry IJ, Hourihane JO’B. The 2002–2007 trends of prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema in Irish schoolchildren. Pediatr Allergy Immunology 2012: 23: 464–471.

Background:  Irish adolescents have the third highest asthma prevalence in the world. Few data examine trends of prevalence of asthma and allergic disorders in younger Irish children. We compared the prevalence of asthma, allergic rhinitis and eczema in school children, aged 6–9 in 2002 and 2007.

Methods:  In two cross‐sectional studies, parents of children aged 6–9, completed identical ISAAC‐based questionnaires in the same 24 Cork City schools in 2002 (n = 1474, response rate = 74.8%) and in 2007 (n = 1535, response rate = 76.2%).

Results:  The prevalence of asthma in our study population of schoolchildren, aged 6–9 remained stable in 2007 (23.5%) since the 2002 finding of 21.7% (p = 0.27). Significant increases were found in the prevalence of rhino‐conjunctivitis (7.6–10.6%, p = 0.005) and eczema (8.9–13.5%, p < 0.001). In 2007, male preponderance for suffering the symptoms of current asthma existed (M:F 1.2:1, p = 0.075), although it had lost its significance since 2002 (M:F 1.5:1, p < 0.001). M:F ratio for most allergic rhinitis related symptoms moved from equal sex distribution to male predominance (nasal problems ever: 2002 – M:F, 1.1:1, p = 0.117; 2007 – M:F, 1.2:1, p = 0.012, current rhinitis: 2002 – M:F 1.2:1, p = 0.98; 2007 M:F 1.3:1, p = 0.009, hay fever ever: 2002 – M:F 1:1, p = 0.57; 2007 – M:F 1.5:1, p = 0.007). The sex‐specific prevalence of rhino‐conjunctivitis and the severity of symptoms suffered, remained equally sex distributed in both timeframes. From 2002 to 2007, the prevalence of all the reported symptoms of eczema were equally distributed between the sexes, while lifetime prevalence of eczema moved from male predominance to equal distribution.

Conclusion:  The prevalence of asthma in 6–9 yr old Cork schoolchildren remained static between 2002 and 2007; however, rhino‐conjunctivitis and eczema have become increasingly prevalent. Co‐morbidity of allergic conditions continues to pose a considerable health burden in this young population. We also demonstrated an alteration in the sex‐specific profile of current asthma and lifetime allergic rhinitis towards equalization in distribution.
Effect of endotoxin and allergens on neonatal lung function and infancy respiratory symptoms and eczema
Authors: Abbing‐Karahagopian Victoria , van der Gugten Anne C. , van der Ent Cornelis K. , Uiterwaal Cuno , de Jongh Madelon , Oldenwening Marieke , Brunekreef Bert , Gehring Ulrike
Published: March 2012

To cite this article: Abbing‐Karahagopian V, van der Gugten AC, van der Ent CK, Uiterwaal C, de Jongh M, Oldenwening M, Brunekreef B, Gehring U. Effect of endotoxin and allergens on neonatal lung function and infancy respiratory symptoms and eczema. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2012: 23: 448–455.

Background:  Exposure to endotoxin and allergens in house dust has been found to be associated with childhood wheeze and asthma. Neonatal lung function is rarely examined in relation to this exposure.

Objectives:  To assess the association between exposure to endotoxin, house dust mite and cat allergens and neonatal lung function, and respiratory symptoms and eczema in infancy.

Methods:  In the Wheezing Illnesses Study Leidsche Rijn (WHISTLER) birth cohort study, levels of endotoxin, house dust mite allergens, and cat allergen have been measured in dust samples collected in the child’s home. Lung function was measured before age 2 months, and respiratory symptoms and eczema were recorded in a daily diary during the first year of life. Associations of lung function (N = 302), respiratory symptoms (N = 361), and eczema (N = 342) with endotoxin and allergen levels have been studied by means of linear and logistic regression, respectively.

Results:  Mattress dust endotoxin was associated with a significant increase in neonatal respiratory compliance [adjusted mean difference (95% confidence interval) 2.31 (0.33; 4.29) ml/kPa per interquartile range increase in exposure] and a non‐significant decrease in neonatal airway resistance [0.32 (−0.77; 0.14) kPa/l/s]. There were no associations between allergen exposure and neonatal lung function and respiratory symptoms.

Conclusions:  Environmental exposure to endotoxin may have an important role in the development of lung function.
Behavioral functioning and treatment adherence in pediatric eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Hommel Kevin A. , Franciosi James P. , Gray Wendy N. , Hente Elizabeth A. , Ahrens Annette , Rothenberg Marc E.
Published: March 2012

To cite this article: Hommel KA, Franciosi JP, Gray WN, Hente EA, Ahrens A, Rothenberg ME. Behavioral functioning and treatment adherence in pediatric eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2012: 23: 494–499.

Objective:  To examine behavioral predictors of treatment adherence in patients with eosinophilic gastrointestinal disorders (EGID).

Methods:  Participants were 96 patients 2.5–18 yr of age with eosinophilic esophagitis or eosinophilic gastroenteritis and their caregivers (mother, father). We assessed maternal and paternal report of child/adolescent internalizing symptoms (e.g., anxiety, depression) and externalizing symptoms (e.g., aggression, anger) using the Behavior Assessment System for Children, 2nd edition (BASC‐2). A multi‐informant adherence assessment approach and an 80% cut point were used to classify patients as adherent or non‐adherent.

Results:  Sociodemographic predictors did not distinguish between adherent and non‐adherent patients. Maternal report of internalizing symptoms significantly correlated with non‐adherence (p < 0.001). Post hoc probing revealed a significant contribution of depression, with depressed patients being more likely (OR = 7.27; p < 0.05) to be non‐adherent than non‐depressed patients. Paternal report of internalizing and externalizing symptoms was not associated with non‐adherence.

Conclusions:  Maternal report of patient internalizing behavioral symptoms, particularly depression, is significantly associated with non‐adherence in patients with EGID. These symptoms are potential risk factors and should be considered when assessing and treating non‐adherence. Clinical care of patients with EGID should include routine screening for depression.
Diel Cycles in Chemosensory Behaviors of Free‐Ranging Rattlesnakes Lying in Wait for Prey
Authors: Barbour Matthew A. , Clark Rulon W.
Published: March 2012

The sensory ecology of foragers is fundamentally influenced by changes in environmental conditions such as ambient light. Changes in ambient light may hinder the effectiveness of particular senses (e.g., impaired vision at night), but many predators rely on multiple sensory systems and may continue to forage despite changes in light availability. Exactly how predator behaviors and sensory systems compensate under changes in light availability in the field is not well understood. We used radio telemetry and portable video surveillance cameras to quantify the sit‐and‐wait chemosensory foraging behavior of free‐ranging red diamond (Crotalus ruber) and northern Pacific (Crotalus oreganus oreganus) rattlesnakes during day and night periods. The two most common behaviors we observed were chemosensory probes, a behavior we describe in detail for the first time, and mouth gapes. During chemosensory probes, rattlesnakes extend their head beyond their coil, explore the surrounding area while tongue‐flicking, and subsequently return to a stationary position inside their coil. Foraging rattlesnakes probed at significantly higher rates during nocturnal vs. diurnal hours. Similarly, mouth gaping occurred during a higher percentage of nocturnal vs. diurnal hours for foraging snakes. Nearly half of all mouth gapes were followed immediately with a chemosensory probe, suggesting that mouth gaping also serves a chemosensory function in this context. Our results suggest that chemical cues play an increasingly important role in mediating rattlesnake foraging behavior at night. Examining how abiotic factors, such as light availability, influence the sensory ecology of free‐ranging predators is essential for accurately characterizing their interactions with prey.
Development of a high resolution melting (HRM) marker linked to genic male sterility inCapsicum annuum L.
Authors: Lee Heung‐Ryul , An Hye Jung , Yang Dong Cheol , Choi Soon Ho , Kim Hyoun‐Joung , Rhee Han Gheol , Harn Chee Hark
Published: March 2012

With 4 figures and 1 table

The characteristics of male sterility (MS) are used in breeding programmes to achieve economical seed production. Male sterility is divided into genic male sterility (GMS) and cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS), which are used to breed commercial pepper varieties. The CMS system, however, is not feasible in some pepper varieties, including bell peppers, because of the absence of a restorer source. GMS is thus important for seed production in bell peppers. In this study, a GMS‐linked marker from bell peppers was developed using the bulked segregant analysis (BSA) and amplified fragment length polymorphism (AFLP) method using F2and sibling individuals. We used 1024 AFLP primer sets and found a polymorphism fromEcoRI ACG/MseI GTT among the siblings. An internal sequence‐based primer was designed from the 395 bp sequence for high‐resolution melting (HRM) analysis, and the marker score of 87 of 92 F2individuals corresponded to their phenotypes. The marker was mapped on chromosome 5 on the AC99 map.
Co‐existence of hereditary coproporphyria and porphyria cutanea tarda: The importance of genetic testing
Authors: Rudd Alice , Grant Janine , Varigos George , Morgan Vanessa , Winship Ingrid
Published: March 2012

The porphyrias are a group of inherited disorders that result in defects in the enzymes of the haem biosynthetic pathway, causing photosensitive bullous skin eruptions or abdominal and neurological attacks. Enzymatic defects result in specific porphyrin excretory patterns that are diagnosed biochemically and can be confirmed by genetic testing. Defects in the coproporphyrinogen oxidase (CPOX) enzyme result in the autosomal dominant hereditary coproporphyria. Multiple mutations have been identified in the CPOX gene and incomplete penetrance is noted. Latent carriers without clinical evidence of disease are at risk of life‐threatening attacks. Porphyria cutanea tarda may be inherited, but is more commonly acquired. Occasionally two forms of porphyria may co‐exist. The importance of genetic testing is discussed.
‘Making evidence count’: A framework to monitor the impact of health services research
Authors: Buykx Penny , Humphreys John , Wakerman John , Perkins David , Lyle David , McGrail Matthew , Kinsman Leigh
Published: March 2012

Objectives:  The objective of this study is to develop a framework to measure the impact of primary health care research, describe how it could be used and propose a method for its validation.

Design:  Literature review and critical appraisal of existing models of research impact, and integration of three into a comprehensive impact framework.

Setting:  Centre of Research Excellence focusing on access to primary health care services in Australia.

Participants:  Not applicable.

Interventions:  Not applicable.

Main outcome measure:  The Health Services Research Impact Framework, integrating the strengths of three existing models of research impact.

Conclusion:  In order to ensure relevance to policy and practice and to provide accountability for funding, it is essential that the impact of health services research is measured and monitored over time. Our framework draws upon previously published literature regarding specific measures of research impact. We organise this information according to the main area of impact (i.e. research related, policy, service and societal) and whether the impact originated with the researcher (i.e. producer push) or the end‐user (i.e. user pull). We propose to test the utility of the framework by recording and monitoring the impact of our own research and that of other groups of primary health care researchers.
Nature or nurture: The effect of undergraduate rural clinical rotations on pre‐existent rural career choice likelihood as measured by the SOMERS Index
Authors: Somers George T. , Spencer Ryan J.
Published: March 2012

Objective:  Do undergraduate rural clinical rotations increase the likelihood of medical students to choose a rural career once pre‐existent likelihood is accounted for?

Design:  A prospective, controlled quasi‐experiment using self‐paired scores on the SOMERS Index of rural career choice likelihood, before and after 3 years of clinical rotations in either mainly rural or mainly urban locations.

Setting:  Monash University medical school, Australia.

Participants:  Fifty‐eight undergraduate‐entry medical students (35% of the 2002 entry class).

Main outcome measures:  The SOMERS Index of rural career choice likelihood and its component indicators.

Results:  There was an overall decline in SOMERS Index score (22%) and in each of its components (12–41%). Graduating students who attended rural rotations were more likely to choose a rural career on graduation (difference in SOMERS score: 24.1 (95% CI, 15.0–33.3) P < 0.0001); however, at entry, students choosing rural rotations had an even greater SOMERS score (difference: 27.1 (95% CI, 18.2–36.1) P < 0.0001). Self‐paired pre–post reductions in likelihood were not affected by attending mainly rural or urban rotations, nor were there differences based on rural background alone or sex.

Conclusions:  While rural rotations are an important component of undergraduate medical training, it is the nature of the students choosing to study in rural locations rather than experiences during the course that is the greater influence on rural career choice. In order to improve the rural medical workforce crisis, medical schools should attract more students with pre‐existent likelihood to choose a rural career. The SOMERS Index was found to be a useful tool for this quantitative analysis.
Potential of pharmacists to help reduce the burden of poorly managed cardiovascular risk
Authors: Namara Kevin P. Mc , Dunbar James A. , Philpot Benjamin , Marriott Jennifer L. , Reddy Prasuna , Janus Edward D.
Published: March 2012

Introduction:  Rural areas require better use of existing health professionals to ensure capacity to deliver improved cardiovascular outcomes. Community pharmacists (CPs) are accessible to most communities and can potentially undertake expanded roles in prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Objective:  This study aims to establish frequency of contact with general practitioners (GPs) and CPs by patients at high risk of CVD or with inadequately controlled CVD risk factors.

Design, setting and participants:  Population survey using randomly selected individuals from the Wimmera region electoral roll and incorporating a physical health check and self‐administered health questionnaire. Overall, 1500 were invited to participate.

Results:  The participation rate was 51% when ineligible individuals were excluded. Nine out of 10 participants visited one or both types of practitioner in the previous 12 months. Substantially more participants visited GPs compared with CPs (88.5% versus 66.8%). With the exception of excess alcohol intake, the median number of opportunities to intervene for every inadequately controlled CVD risk factor and among high risk patient groups at least doubled for the professions combined when compared with GP visits alone.

Conclusion:  Opportunities exist to intervene more frequently with target groups by engaging CPs more effectively but would require a significant attitude shift towards CPs. Mechanisms for greater pharmacist integration into primary care teams should be investigated.
Factors that affect self‐care behaviour of female high school students with dysmenorrhoea: A cluster sampling study
Authors: Chang Shu‐Fang , Chuang Mei‐hua
Published: March 2012

Chang S‐F, Chuang M. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 117–124

Factors that affect self‐care behaviour of female high school students with dysmenorrhoea: A cluster sampling study

The purpose of this study was to identify factors that affect the self‐care behaviour of female high school students with dysmenorrhoea. This cross‐sectional study utilized a questionnaire‐based survey to understand the self‐care behaviour of female high school students dysmenorrhoeal, along with the factors that affect this behaviour. A cluster random sampling method was adopted and questionnaires were used for data collection. Study participants experienced a moderate level of discomfort from dysmenorrhoea, and perceived dysmenorrhoea as serious. This investigation finds that cues to action raised perceived susceptibility to dysmenorrhoea and the perceived effectiveness of self‐care behaviour and, therefore, increased the adoption of self‐care behaviour. Hence, school nurses should offer female high school students numerous resources to apply correct self‐care behaviour.
A Turkish study on menarche and menstrual experiences and their effects on attitudes towards menopause
Authors: Erbil Nülüfer , Boyacı Serap , Kurt İpek , Akdoğan Yasemin , Kaya İlknur
Published: March 2012

Erbil N, Boyacı S, Kurt İ, Akdoğan Y, Kaya İ. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 107–116

A Turkish study on menarche and menstrual experiences and their effects on attitudes towards menopause

The purpose of this study was to investigate women's menarche and menstrual experiences and their effects on attitudes towards menopause. This research was planned as cross‐sectional. A total of 300 women who had applied for a physical examination at the Maternity and Gynecology and Children's Hospital of Ordu province of Turkey were recruited for the study using the convenience sampling method. The study was conducted between 16 April and 28 May 2008. The research data were gathered using the Menopause Attitude Scale and a questionnaire. The average score for women on the Menopause Attitude Scale was 37.85 ± 10.34. Significant differences were found between attitudes of women towards menopause and the information they had received before menarche about menstruation (P = 0.024), the meaning of menstruation (P = 0.014), the interval time between menstrual periods (P = 0.017), problems experienced before menstruation (P = 0.035) and the desire of some women to continue menstruating and delay menopause (P = 0.005). Results of this study showed that more than half of the women had negative attitudes towards menopause. In order to help girls and women develop positive attitudes about menarche, menstruation and menopause, they need to have access to information during all phases of these important physical changes.
Depression and caregiver burden experienced by caregivers of Jordanian patients with stroke
Authors: Kamel Andaleeb Abu , Bond A Elaine , Froelicher Erika Sivarajan
Published: March 2012

Kamel AA, Bond AE, Sivarajan Froelicher E. International Journal of Nursing Practice 2012; 18: 147–154

Depression and caregiver burden experienced by caregivers of Jordanian patients with stroke

Many stroke survivors will be cared for at home, primarily by their relatives. Providing care to a family member with a chronic disabling disease can be both emotionally and physically distressing for the caregivers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between patients' characteristics, duration of caregiving, daily caregiving time, caregiver's characteristics, caregiver depression and burden in caregivers of patients with stroke. A cross‐sectional design was used with a convenience sample of 116 subjects. The Center of Epidemiologic Studies of Depression and the Caregiver Strain Index were used to identify caregiver depression and burden, respectively. Logistic regression analysis identified the influence of independent variables on caregiver depression and caregiver burden. Caregivers had high scores for depression and burden indices. Caregivers' health, receiving professional home health care and caregivers' burden were related to caregiver depression. Functional disabilities of patients with stroke and depression of caregivers were related to caregiver burden. To decrease caregiver depression and burden, nurses must provide caregivers with instructions for home management of patients with stroke. Development of specialized stroke home health services in Jordan that targets patients with stroke and their caregivers are recommended.
The effectiveness of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a treatment for infantile colic
Authors: Çetinkaya Bengü , Başbakkal Zümrüt
Published: March 2012

Çetinkaya B, Başbakkal Z. International Journal of Nursing Practice, 2012; 18: 164–169

The effectiveness of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a treatment for infantile colic

The aim of this paper was to investigate the effect of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil as a possible treatment for this condition. This research was carried out on a group of 40 infants between 2 and 6 weeks of age with a gestational age of 38–42 weeks and normal development and growth. All the infants weighed between 2500 and 4000 g at birth and all exhibited the signs of colic.

Infants in the treatment group received abdominal massage by their mothers using lavender oil, while those in the control group were not subject to an intervention. The infants in both control and treatment groups were monitored once a week by the researchers, in total five times. The effect of the massage was measured in terms of changes in the length of time the infants cried per week. The use of aromatherapy massage using lavender oil was found to be effective in reducing the symptoms of colic.