bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reciprocal trophic niche shifts in native and invasive fish: salmonids and galaxiids in Patagonian lakes
Authors: CORREA CRISTIÁN , BRAVO ANDREA P. , HENDRY ANDREW P.
Published: July 2012

1. Rainbow (Oncorhynchus mykiss) and brown trout (Salmo trutta) are widespread and invasive salmonids with important lethal effects as predators, although indirect effects are also possible. We used stable isotope analyses (δ15N, δ13C) to explore how the density of invasive trout in 25 Patagonian lakes alters the trophic niche (TN) of a widespread native fish, Galaxias platei (Galaxiidae). We also explored how the density of the galaxiid influences the TN of invasive trout.

2. We quantified two aspects of the TN: (i) the proportion of littoral carbon (PL) and (ii) trophic height (TH) (i.e. the ‘height’ at which the fish feeds in the food web). We related these measures of TN in a given species to the density of other species (as estimated by catch‐per‐unit‐effort).

3. As G. platei body size increased, their PL increased (increasing littoral feeding) in several lakes. However, none of the fish species investigated showed changes in PL with increasing density of the other fish species. TH increased with body size in all three species. In addition, the TH of large G. platei declined with increasing trout density and, reciprocally, the TH of large S. trutta decreased with decreasing G. platei density.

4. The reciprocal effects of native and the invasive fish on TH were as large as a shift of one trophic level. This pattern is consistent with an exhaustion of galaxiid prey for both piscivorous G. platei and S. trutta in lakes with high trout density.

5. These finding support the suggested management strategy of culling trout from overpopulated lakes, which should simultaneously protect native fish and enhance a lucrative sport fishery for large trout.
Livestock greenhouse gas emissions and mitigation potential in Europe
Authors: Bellarby Jessica , Tirado Reyes , Leip Adrian , Weiss Franz , Lesschen Jan Peter , Smith Pete
Published: July 2012

The livestock sector contributes considerably to global greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Here, for the year 2007 we examined GHG emissions in the EU27 livestock sector and estimated GHG emissions from production and consumption of livestock products; including imports, exports and wastage. We also reviewed available mitigation options and estimated their potential. The focus of this review is on the beef and dairy sector since these contribute 60% of all livestock production emissions. Particular attention is paid to the role of land use and land use change (LULUC) and carbon sequestration in grasslands. GHG emissions of all livestock products amount to between 630 and 863 Mt CO2e, or 12–17% of total EU27 GHG emissions in 2007. The highest emissions aside from production, originate from LULUC, followed by emissions from wasted food. The total GHG mitigation potential from the livestock sector in Europe is between 101 and 377 Mt CO2e equivalent to between 12 and 61% of total EU27 livestock sector emissions in 2007. A reduction in food waste and consumption of livestock products linked with reduced production, are the most effective mitigation options, and if encouraged, would also deliver environmental and human health benefits. Production of beef and dairy on grassland, as opposed to intensive grain fed production, can be associated with a reduction in GHG emissions depending on actual LULUC emissions. This could be promoted on rough grazing land where appropriate.
Lymph node infarction: role of underlying malignancy, tumour proliferation fraction and vascular compromise – a study of 35 cases and a comprehensive review of the literature
Authors: Jiang Xiaoyin ‘Sara’ , West Dava S , Lagoo Anand S
Published: July 2012

Aims:  To determine the roles of the presence of malignancy, tumour proliferation fraction, vascular compromise and therapeutic and diagnostic manipulations in lymph node infarction (LNI).

Methods and results:  Thirty‐five cases of LNI were identified over a 20‐year period. Of the 35 patients, 31 (89%) had an underlying malignancy: 27 of the 31 (87%) were haematologic malignancies, the rest being metastatic carcinoma (two), melanoma, and seminoma. Of the four patients without evidence of malignancy, two were diagnosed with viral infection, one had LNI adjacent to a thrombosed pancreas graft, and one was lost to follow‐up. Ki67 immunostaining in viable tumour demonstrated a range (5–60%) of proliferation fractions. A history of fine needle aspiration alone was present in seven of the 35 patients (20%), a history of chemotherapy alone in 11 (31%), and a history of both in two (5.7%). Factor VIII immunostaining highlighted thrombosed and recanalized vessels next to the infarction.

Conclusions:  Infarction of lymph nodes is associated with previous, concurrent or subsequent diagnosis of malignancy in the vast majority of cases. Chemotherapy or previous fine needle aspiration can precipitate infarction in some cases, but infarction may occur without such intervention, possibly because of an underlying subacute or chronic vascular compromise produced by vascular thrombosis.
Systematic review of descriptive cohort studies on the dynamics of glycaemia among adults admitted to hospital with acute stroke
Authors: Laird Elizabeth A. , Coates Vivien , Chaney David
Published: July 2012

Aim

This article presents the results of a systematic review of descriptive cohort studies on the dynamics of glycaemia among adults admitted to hospital with acute stroke.

Background

Hyperglycaemia is common among adults admitted to hospital with stroke.

Design

Systematic review.

Data sources

A search for descriptive cohort studies published between January 1996–June 2011, was conducted in MEDLINE, PubMed and Embase electronic databases. The search was performed using the terms ‘stroke’, ‘hyperglycaemia’ and/or ‘glucose’ combined and limited to adults and English language publications. Searching of citations from identified studies supplemented the electronic searches.

Review methods

A systematic review was conducted of eight studies, meeting the criteria of: (1) descriptive cohort studies; (2) adults admitted to hospital with acute stroke; and (3) glycaemic status monitored over at least two consecutive days from admission to hospital. The review adheres to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis standards.

Results

The dynamics of glycaemia after stroke has been investigated in seven prospective cohort studies and one retrospective study. The patterns that emerged were persisting normoglycaemia, transient hyperglycaemia, persisting hyperglycaemia and delayed hyperglycaemia. Surges in glycaemia are likely on days 2 and 3 and some adults will not exhibit hyperglycaemia till day 7.

Conclusion

Further large cohort studies are required to explore the dynamic of glycaemia after stroke for at least 1 week duration. The timing of formal screening for diabetes mellitus is important, as early screening may overestimate detection rates.
Practice nurses and general practitioners: perspectives on the role and future development of practice nursing in Ireland
Authors: McCarthy Geraldine , Cornally Nicola , Moran Joe , Courtney Marie
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To explore the role dimensions, competence and professional development needs of practice nurses in Ireland from both the general practitioner’s and practice nurse’s perspective and highlight any agreement/disagreement between the professions.

Background.  Economic pressure on healthcare delivery is promoting a re‐evaluation of professional roles and boundaries. This coupled with a primary care sector that is evolving prompted an investigation into the role dimensions and competence of the practice nurse. There is a lack of empirical data comparing the general practitioner’s and practice nurse’s perspective on the current role of the nurse, clinical competence (existing and required), strategic direction for the role and continuing professional development.

Design.  A descriptive cross‐sectional survey design was used.

Methods.  A random sample of general practitioners (n = 414) and a purposeful sample of practice nurses (n = 451) participated. Data from each profession were analysed and comparisons drawn.

Results.  General practitioners and practice nurses agree (±5%) that the nursing role is centred on immunisation, direct clinical care and elements of chronic disease management. However, in some areas such as preconceptual advice, family planning, advice on menopause, continence promotion and research, there was a 30% difference between the general practitioners perceptions of the nurse’s involvement and the practice nurse’s actual involvement in the role. Perceived competency differed in a number of areas with nurses more likely to indicate competency in health promotion activities. Both disciplines acknowledged that only a minority of practice nurses were competent in audit, research and dealing with ‘problems with living’ (relationship breakdown, addiction and parenting).

Conclusion.  There is some congruence of opinion among practice nurses and general practitioners in Ireland regarding the current role of the practice nurse. Divergent opinions on the nurses’ involvement in a particular aspect of the role may be due to the general practitioners underestimating the nurse’s involvement in the role. Training is required in the areas of audit, research and ‘problems with living’.

Relevance to clinical practice.  This research provides data for role clarity and evidence‐based role development for practice nurses within the context of evolving primary care services. It also indicates how general practitioners perceive the nursing role.
Thoughts on death and dying when living with haemodialysis approaching end of life
Authors: Axelsson Lena , Randers Ingrid , Lundh Hagelin Carina , Jacobson Stefan H , Klang Birgitta
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To describe inner thoughts and feelings relating to death and dying when living with haemodialysis approaching end of life.

Background.  Patients who undergo maintenance haemodialysis suffer a significant symptom burden and an impaired quality of life. The high mortality rate in these patients indicates that about one‐fourth of them are in their last year of life, suggesting the presence of death and dying in the haemodialysis unit.

Design.  A qualitative descriptive design was used.

Methods.  A total of 31 qualitative interviews were conducted with eight patients (aged 66–87) over a period of 12 months. Qualitative content analysis was used to analyse data.

Results.  The analysis revealed 10 subthemes that were sorted into three main themes. Being aware that death may be near comprises being reminded of death and dying by the deteriorating body, by the worsening conditions and deaths of fellow patients, and by knowing haemodialysis treatment as a border to death. Adapting to approaching death comprises looking upon death as natural, preparing to face death, hoping for a quick death and repressing thoughts of death and dying. Being alone with existential thoughts comprises a wish to avoid burdening family, lack of communication with healthcare professionals and reflections on haemodialysis withdrawal as an hypothetic option.

Conclusions.  Living with haemodialysis approaching, the end of life involves significant and complex existential issues and suffering, and patients are often alone with their existential thoughts.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Nurses and other healthcare professionals in haemodialysis settings need to combine technical and medical abilities with committed listening and communication skills and be open to talking about death and dying, with sensitivity to individual and changeable needs.
Ethical issues of incorporating spiritual care into clinical practice
Authors: Polzer Casarez Rebecca L , Engebretson Joan C
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this article was to analyse the scholarly discourse on the ethical issues of incorporating spirituality and religion into clinical practice.

Background.  Spirituality is an important aspect of health care, yet the secularisation of health care presents ethical concerns for many health providers. Health providers may have conflicting views regarding if and how to offer spiritual care in the clinical setting.

Design.  Discursive paper.

Results.  The discourse analysis uncovered four themes: ethical concerns of omission; ethical concerns of commission; conditions under which health providers prefer to offer spiritual care; and strategies to integrate spiritual care. Ethical concerns of omission of spiritual care include lack of beneficence for not offering holistic care. Ethical concerns of commission are coercion and overstepping one’s competence in offering spiritual care. Conditions under which providers are more likely to offer spiritual care are if the patient has a terminal illness, and if the patient requests spiritual care. Strategies for appropriate spiritual care include listening, and remaining neutral and sensitive to spiritual issues.

Conclusions.  Health providers must be aware of both the concerns of omission and commission. Aristotle’s golden mean, an element of virtue ethics, supports a more moderate approach that can be achieved by avoiding the imposition of one’s own personal beliefs of a religious persuasion or beliefs of extreme secularisation, and focusing on the beneficence to the patient.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Key components for health providers in addressing spiritual concerns are self‐reflection, provision of individualised care, cultural competency and communication.
Emotional intelligence as a moderator in the stress–burnout relationship: a questionnaire study on nurses
Authors: Görgens‐Ekermans Gina , Brand Tamari
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To investigate inter‐relationships between emotional intelligence (EI), work stress and burnout in a group of nurses in the Western Cape Province, South Africa. The moderating effect of EI in the stress–burnout relationship and group differences (nurses working in different wards) in burnout were also investigated.

Background.  Stress and subsequent burnout commonly threaten the occupational health and well‐being of nurses in South Africa and elsewhere. Developing EI in nurses may increase individual stress resistance and combat burnout.

Design.  A cross‐sectional research design with anonymous questionnaires was conducted. Self‐report data were used.

Methods.  Survey data were collected from 122 nurses working in different wards at four hospitals from a private hospital group. The Swinburne University Emotional Intelligence Test, Sources of Work Stress Inventory and Maslach Burnout Inventory were used to measure EI, stress and burnout, respectively.

Results.  Consistent inverse relationships between emotional control and management as dimensions of EI, and stress and burnout emerged. A differential effect of high vs. low EI on the stress–burnout relationship was evident. Workload and the work/family interface emerged as significant predictors of burnout. Respondents working in maternity, paediatric and ER wards reported more feelings of personal accomplishment than those working in general wards.

Conclusions.  Higher EI is significantly related with lower stress and burnout in a sample of South African nurses. The moderator effect of EI in the stress–burnout relationship suggests that enhanced EI may help diminish burnout development when chronic stress is experienced.

Relevance to clinical practice.  EI developmental interventions, if introduced in nursing curricula, may increase emotional coping resources and enhanced social skills, which may benefit the long‐term occupational health of nurses. This may be relevant in developing countries, where environmental stressors related to the organisational context (budget constraints) and wider social factors (shortage of qualified nurses) are difficult to address.
Tracking the route to sustainability: a service evaluation tool for an advance care planning model developed for community palliative care services
Authors: Blackford Jeanine , Street Annette
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  The study aim was to develop a service evaluation tool for an advance care planning model implemented in community palliative care.

Background.  Internationally, advance care planning programmes usually measure success by completion rate of advance directives or plans. This outcome measure provides little information to assist nurse managers to embed advance care planning into usual care and measure their performance and quality over time. An evaluation tool was developed to address this need in Australian community palliative care services.

Design.  Multisite action research approach.

Methods.  Three community palliative care services located in Victoria, Australia, participated. Qualitative and quantitative data collection strategies were used to develop the Advance Care Planning‐Service Evaluation Tool.

Results.  The Advance Care Planning‐Service Evaluation Tool identified advance care planning progress over time across three stages of Establishment, Consolidation and Sustainability within previously established Model domains of governance, documentation, practice, education, quality improvement and community engagement. The tool was used by nurses either as a peer‐assessment or self‐assessment tool that assisted services to track their implementation progress as well as plan further change strategies.

Conclusion.  The Advance Care Planning‐Service Evaluation Tool was useful to nurse managers in community palliative care. It provided a clear outline of service progress, level of achievement and provided clear direction for planning future changes.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The Advance Care Planning‐Service Evaluation Tool enables nurses in community palliative care to monitor, evaluate and plan quality improvement of their advance care planning model to improve end‐of‐life care. As the tool describes generic healthcare processes, there is potential transferability of the tool to other types of services.
Spirituality and spiritual caring: nurses’ perspectives and practice in palliative and acute care environments
Authors: Ronaldson Susan , Hayes Lillian , Aggar Christina , Green Jennifer , Carey Michele
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  Identify and compare spiritual caring practice by palliative care and acute care registered nurses (RNs), determine any correlation between nurses’ spiritual perspective and their spiritual caring, and to investigate perceived barriers to spiritual caring.

Background.  Over the past decade there has been growing interest in spiritual caring in nursing. Professional nursing bodies have proposed spirituality and spiritual caring as an integral component of holistic nursing.

Design.  Cross sectional study.

Methods.  Palliative care RNs (n = 42) from one community palliative care service and three hospices, and acute care RNs (n = 50) from three major acute care hospitals all in metropolitan Sydney, Australia completed a research questionnaire. Two validated tools and a demographic survey were used to collect data. These tools measured spiritual perspectives including saliency of personal spirituality, spiritual views and engagement in spiritually‐related activities; and spiritual practice including assessment, interventions and barriers to spiritual caring. Data were collected over a six‐month period and interpreted with both descriptive and analytical statistics.

Results.  Significant differences were seen between the two RN groups. Palliative care RNs’ spiritual caring practice was more advanced and their spiritual perspective stronger; this relationship was positive. Both RN groups identified ‘insufficient time’ as the most common barrier to spiritual caring practice; ‘patient privacy’ was also common for acute care RNs.

Conclusions.  Palliative care RNs’ spiritual perspectives influenced their spiritual caring. These nurses were older and more career‐advanced than the acute care RNs, which may explain the differences observed. Acute care RNs may benefit from additional support for their spiritual caring and to address perceived barriers.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The development of nurses’ spiritual perspective early in their preparation for practice, and the articulation and documentation of spiritual caring may enhance their spiritual caring practice. Further research on barriers to spiritual caring in acute care nursing environments is recommended.
‘Struggling to be an insider’: a phenomenological design of new nurses’ transition
Authors: Lee Huei Ying , Hsu Min‐Tao , Li Pei‐Ling , Sloan Rebecca S
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To obtain a comprehensive understanding of the transition process of new nurses in Taiwan.

Background.  The transition period for new nurses can be a daunting and traumatic experience. The large number of newly graduated Taiwanese nurses who resign from their jobs within three months indicates that this process can be complicated. However, the problems associated with the experiences of new nurses have not yet been recognised.

Design.  We adopted a phenomenological design using focus group interviews.

Methods.  Sixteen new nurses (less than one year working experience) participated in eight weekly group interviews lasting two hours each to grasp their experience of ‘being new’. Interview data were analysed according to Sloan’s (2002) three moments, and the whole process of analysis followed the suggestions of Agar (1986), which was performed in a close collaboration between researchers until the consensus about the findings could be reached.

Results.  The overarching pattern of the transition process of new nurses becoming experienced members of the clinical nursing team was revealed as a journey of ‘struggling to be an insider’. This phenomenon was characterised by four themes, including (1) ‘being new as being weak’, (2) ‘masking myself’, (3) ‘internalising the unreasonable’ and (4) ‘transforming myself to get a position’.

Conclusions.  While Western culture view abusive indoctrination of new nurses as toxic behaviour, under the Chinese traditions of yield, tolerance and self‐oppression, following the power hierarchy and seeking harmony, the transition of new nurses is interpreted differently.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Recognition of the journey of ‘struggling to be an insider’ helps nurse administrators to (1) gain a better understanding of what new nurses encounter in their transition process, (2) help new nurses without harm, (3) improve in‐service training programmes and (4) retain future nurses.
Factors affecting the quality of life of middle‐aged women suffering Hwa‐Byung
Authors: Lim Young Mi , Jung In Chul , Seo Bok Nam
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To test a staged theoretical model designed to explain causal relationships affecting the quality of life (QOL) of middle‐aged Korean women suffering from Hwa‐Byung (HB).

Background.  The model contains three stages comprised of antecedents (stage 1), perception (stage 2) and outcome variable (stage 3). Stage 1 contains individual characteristic and emotional distress variables. In stage 2, the perception variable is depression (DEP). In stage 3, the outcome factor is QOL.

Design.  A cross‐sectional, descriptive design was used.

Methods.  A convenience sample of 135 community dwelling middle‐aged women was recruited over a five‐month period in the neuropsychology outpatient clinic at an Oriental hospital in Korea. The instruments were the Korean version of WHO Quality of Life‐BREF (WHOQOL‐BREF), Korean version of State‐Trait Anger Expression Inventory (STAXI‐K), The Korean version of State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI‐K) and Korean version of Beck Depression Inventory (K‐BDI).

Results.  Forty‐five per cent of the variance in the QOL of women with HB was explained by the direct effect of depression (β = −0·356, p = 0·000) and trait anxiety (β = −0·324, p = 0·001). State anger (β = 0·429, p = 0·000) and spouse (β = −0·180, p = 0·021) explained 45·0% of the variance in (of) depression.

Conclusion.  The findings showed that depression mediates the relationship between the emotional distress and QOL as a negative outcome.

Relevance to clinical practice.  These relationships can guide researchers and psychiatric mental health nurses to understand depression as a mediating factor and to develop nursing interventions to improve QOL of HB women.
Specific interactions between the Candida albicans ABC transporter Cdr1p ectodomain and a d‐octapeptide derivative inhibitor
Authors: Niimi Kyoko , Harding David R. K. , Holmes Ann R. , Lamping Erwin , Niimi Masakazu , Tyndall Joel D. A. , Cannon Richard D. , Monk Brian C.
Published: July 2012

Overexpression of the Candida albicans ATP‐binding cassette transporter CaCdr1p causes clinically significant resistance to azole drugs including fluconazole (FLC). Screening of a ∼ 1.89 × 106 member d‐octapeptide combinatorial library that concentrates library members at the yeast cell surface identified RC21v3, a 4‐methoxy‐2,3,6‐trimethylbenzenesulphonyl derivative of the d‐octapeptide d‐NH2‐FFKWQRRR‐CONH2, as a potent and stereospecific inhibitor of CaCdr1p. RC21v3 chemosensitized Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains overexpressing CaCdr1p but not other fungal ABC transporters, the C. albicans MFS transporter CaMdr1p or the azole target enzyme CaErg11p, to FLC. RC21v3 also chemosensitized clinical C. albicans isolates overexpressing CaCDR1 to FLC, even when CaCDR2 was overexpressed. Specific targeting of CaCdr1p by RC21v3 was confirmed by spontaneous RC21v3 chemosensitization‐resistant suppressor mutants of S. cerevisiae expressing CaCdr1p. The suppressor mutations introduced a positive charge beside, or within, extracellular loops 1, 3, 4 and 6 of CaCdr1p or an aromatic residue near the extracytoplasmic end of transmembrane segment 5. The mutations did not affect CaCdr1p localization or CaCdr1p ATPase activity but some increased susceptibility to the CaCdr1p substrates FLC, rhodamine 6G, rhodamine 123 and cycloheximide. The suppressor mutations showed that the drug‐like CaCdr1p inhibitors FK506, enniatin, milbemycin α11 and milbemycin β9 have modes of action similar to RC21v3.
The linker sequence, joining the DNA‐binding domain of the homologous transcription factors, Mlc and NagC, to the rest of the protein, determines the specificity of their DNA target recognition in Escherichia coli
Authors: Bréchemier‐Baey Dominique , Domínguez‐Ramírez Lenin , Plumbridge Jacqueline
Published: July 2012

Protein–DNA recognition is fundamental to transcriptional regulation. Transcription factors must be capable of locating their specific sites situated throughout the genome and distinguishing them from related sites. Mlc and NagC control uptake and use of the sugars, glucose and N‐acetylglucosamine. Both their helix–turn–helix motifs and their consensus binding sites on DNA are very similar. One distinguishing feature is that most NagC sites have a C/G bp at positions −11 and +11 from the centre of symmetry of the operator, while all Mlc sites have A/T. By constructing Mlc and NagC chimeras, we show that the helix–turn–helix motif per se is not responsible for specific recognition of Mlc or NagC sites, but that a linker, joining the DNA‐binding domain to the rest of the protein, is the major determinant. We show that a change of just two amino acids in the NagC linker is sufficient to allow NagC to recognize an A/T bp at positions +/−11 and repress Mlc targets. Modelling of the NagC linker suggests that it forms an extended structure containing two arginines and we suggest that these arginines interact differently with the minor groove at positions +/−11 depending upon the presence of a C/G or A/T bp.
Overexpression of Arabidopsis acyl‐CoA‐binding protein ACBP2 enhances drought tolerance
Authors: DU ZHI‐YAN , CHEN MO‐XIAN , CHEN QIN‐FANG , XIAO SHI , CHYE MEE‐LEN
Published: July 2012

Arabidopsis thaliana acyl‐CoA‐binding protein 2 (ACBP2) is a stress‐responsive protein that is also important in embryogenesis. Here, we assign a role for ACBP2 in abscisic acid (ABA) signalling during seed germination, seedling development and the drought response. ACBP2 was induced by ABA and drought, and transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing ACBP2 (ACBP2‐OXs) showed increased sensitivity to ABA treatment during germination and seedling development. ACBP2‐OXs also displayed improved drought tolerance and ABA‐mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in guard cells, thereby promoting stomatal closure, reducing water loss and enhancing drought tolerance. In contrast, acbp2 mutant plants showed decreased sensitivity to ABA in root development and were more sensitive to drought stress. RNA analyses revealed that ACBP2 overexpression up‐regulated the expression of Respiratory Burst Oxidase Homolog D (AtrbohD) and AtrbohF, two NAD(P)H oxidases essential for ABA‐mediated ROS production, whereas the expression of Hypersensitive to ABA1 (HAB1), an important negative regulator in ABA signalling, was down‐regulated. In addition, transgenic plants expressing ACBP2pro:GUS showed beta‐glucuronidase (GUS) staining in guard cells, confirming a role for ACBP2 at the stomata. These observations support a positive role for ACBP2 in promoting ABA signalling in germination, seedling development and the drought response.
Laser microdissection of grapevine leaf phloem infected by stolbur reveals site‐specific gene responses associated to sucrose transport and metabolism
Authors: SANTI SIMONETTA , GRISAN SIMONE , PIERASCO ALESSANDRO , DE MARCO FEDERICA , MUSETTI RITA
Published: July 2012

Bois Noir is an emergent disease of grapevine that has been associated to a phytoplasma belonging to the XII‐A stolbur group. In plants, phytoplasmas have been found mainly in phloem sieve elements, from where they spread moving through the pores of plates, accumulating especially in source leaves. To examine the expression of grapevine genes involved in sucrose transport and metabolism, phloem tissue, including sieve element/companion cell complexes and some parenchyma cells, was isolated from healthy and infected leaves by means of laser microdissection pressure catapulting (LMPC). Site‐specific expression analysis dramatically increased sensitivity, allowing us to identify specific process components almost completely masked in whole‐leaf analysis. Our findings showed decreased phloem loading through inhibition of sucrose transport and increased sucrose cleavage activity, which are metabolic changes strongly suggesting the establishment of a phytoplasma‐induced switch from carbohydrate source to sink. The analysis focused at the infection site also showed a differential regulation and specificity of two pathogenesis‐related thaumatin‐like genes (TL4 and TL5) of the PR‐5 family.
Karst subsidence as a control on the accumulation and preservation of aeolian deposits: A Pleistocene example from a proglacial outwash setting, Ebro Basin, Spain
Authors: LUZÓN ARÁNZAZU , RODRÍGUEZ‐LÓPEZ JUAN PEDRO , PÉREZ ANTONIO , SORIANO MARÍA ASUNCIÓN , GIL HÉCTOR , POCOVÍ ANDRÉS
Published: July 2012

Meltwater flows emanating from the Pyrenees during the Pleistocene constructed a braided outwash plain in the Ebro Basin and led to the karstification of the Neogene gypsum bedrock. Synsedimentary evaporite dissolution locally increased subsidence rates and generated dolines and collapses that enabled the accumulation and preservation of outwash gravels and associated windblown deposits that were protected from erosion by later meltwater flows. In these localized depocentres, maximum rates of wind deceleration resulted from airflow expansion, enabling the accumulation of cross‐stratified sets of aeolian strata climbing at steep angles and thereby preserving up to 5 m thick sets. The outwash plain was characterized by longitudinal and transverse fluvial gravel bars, channels and windblown facies organized into aeolian sand sheets, transverse and complex aeolian dunes, and loess accumulations. Flat‐lying aeolian deposits merge laterally to partly deformed aeolian deposits encased in dolines and collapses. Synsedimentary evaporite dissolution caused gravels and aeolian sand deposits to subside, such that formerly near‐horizontal strata became inclined and generated multiple internal angular unconformities. During episodes when the wind was undersaturated with respect to its potential sand transporting capacity, deflation occurred over the outwash plain and coarse‐grained lags with ventifacts developed. Subsequent high‐energy flows episodically reached the aeolian dune field, leading to dune destruction and the generation of hyperconcentrated flow deposits composed in part of reworked aeolian sands. Lacustrine deposits in the distal part of the outwash plain preserve rhythmically laminated lutites and associated Gilbert‐type gravel deltas, which developed when fluvial streams reached proglacial lakes. This study documents the first evidence of an extensive Pleistocene proglacial aeolian dune field located in the Ebro Basin (41˙50° N), south of what has hitherto been considered to be the southern boundary of Pleistocene aeolian deposits in Europe. A non‐conventional mechanism (evaporite karst‐related subsidence) for the preservation of aeolian sands in the stratigraphic record is proposed.
A novel splice mutation in the ATP2C1 gene in a woman with concomitant psoriasis vulgaris and disseminated Hailey–Hailey disease
Authors: Chao Sheau‐Chiou , Lee Julia Yu‐Yun , Wu Meng‐Chi , Hsu Mark Ming‐Long
Published: July 2012

Concurrent psoriasis vulgaris and Hailey–Hailey disease is very rare. The clinical and pathologic findings of widespread Hailey–Hailey disease in a 48‐year‐old woman with pre‐existing generalized psoriasis vulgaris were described. In our patient, the vesicular eruption of Hailey–Hailey disease was obscured clinically by the psoriatic lesions. The diagnosis of both diseases was confirmed pathologically. The patient had a total of five skin biopsies performed over the neck, flank area, back, pubic area, and a finger. Acantholytic dyskeratosis, changes suggestive of Hailey–Hailey disease, were found in four specimens, psoriasis in two specimens, and both diseases in one specimen. The diagnosis of Hailey–Hailey disease was further confirmed by detecting a novel splice mutation (832G>A) in the ATP2C1 gene. Our case illustrated that diagnosis of disseminated Hailey–Hailey disease may easily be missed in a patient with a pre‐existing generalized pruritic eruption, such as psoriasis. The appearance of eczematous vesicular eruption or eroded intertrigo‐like lesions in a patient with pre‐existing generalized eruption should raise a suspicion of Hailey–Hailey disease.
Efficacy of mesotherapy in facial rejuvenation: a histological and immunohistochemical evaluation
Authors: El‐Domyati Moetaz , El‐Ammawi Tarek S. , Moawad Osama , El‐Fakahany Hasan , Medhat Walid , Mahoney Mỹ G. , Uitto Jouni
Published: July 2012

Background  Mesotherapy, commonly known as “biorejuvenation” or “biorevitalization”, is a technique used to rejuvenate the skin by means of a transdermal injection of a multivitamin solution and natural plant extracts that are thought to improve the signs of skin aging.

Objectives  This prospective study aimed to evaluate the clinical effect of mesotherapy applied to periorbital wrinkles and to quantitatively evaluate histological changes in the skin occurring in response to the same treatment.

Methods  Six volunteers with Fitzpatrick skin types III or IV and Glogau class I–III wrinkles were subjected to a three‐month course of mesotherapy injections in the periocular area (six sessions administered at two‐week intervals). Standard photographs and skin biopsies were obtained from the treatment area at baseline, at the end of treatment, and at three months post‐treatment. Quantitative evaluation of collagen types I, III, and VII, newly synthesized collagen, total elastin, and tropoelastin was performed using a computerized morphometric analysis.

Results  The clinical evaluation of volunteers at baseline, end of treatment, and three months post‐treatment revealed no significant differences. Histological and immunostaining analysis of collagen types I, III, and VII, newly synthesized collagen, total elastin, and tropoelastin showed no statistically significant changes (P > 0.05) after mesotherapy injection.

Conclusions  The present study indicates that mesotherapy for skin rejuvenation does not result in statistically significant histological changes or clinical improvement.
Clinical features, diagnosis, and treatment of erythema multiforme: a review for the practicing dermatologist
Authors: Sokumbi Olayemi , Wetter David A.
Published: July 2012

Erythema multiforme (EM) is an uncommon, immune‐mediated disorder that presents with cutaneous or mucosal lesions or both. In herpes simplex virus (HSV)–associated EM, the findings are thought to result from cell‐mediated immune reaction against viral antigen‐positive cells that contain the HSV DNA polymerase gene (pol ). The target lesion, with concentric zones of color change, represents the characteristic cutaneous finding seen in this disorder. Although EM can be induced by various factors, HSV infection continues to be the most common inciting factor. Histopathologic testing and other laboratory investigations may be used to confirm the diagnosis of EM and to differentiate it from other clinical imitators. Imitators of EM include urticaria, Stevens‐Johnson syndrome, fixed drug eruption, bullous pemphigoid, paraneoplastic pemphigus, Sweet's syndrome, Rowell's syndrome, polymorphus light eruption, and cutaneous small‐vessel vasculitis. Because disease severity and mucosal involvement differ among patients, treatment should be tailored to each patient, with careful consideration of treatment risk vs benefit. Mild cutaneous involvement of EM can be managed primarily with a goal of achieving symptomatic improvement; however, patients with HSV‐associated recurrent EM and idiopathic recurrent EM require treatment with antiviral prophylaxis. Inpatient hospitalization may be required for patients with severe mucosal involvement that causes poor oral intake and subsequent fluid and electrolyte imbalance. With this review, we strive to provide guidance to the practicing dermatologist in the evaluation and treatment of a patient with EM.
Gross Anatomy of the Female Genital Organs of the Pampas Deer (Ozotoceros bezoarticus, Linnaeus 1758)
Authors: Pérez W. , Vazquez N. , Ungerfeld R.
Published: July 2012

To describe the macroscopic anatomy of the genital organs of the female pampas deer (
Ozotoceros bezoarticus), organs from animals dead in a captive breeding station were dissected. A total of twenty females, 17 adults and 10 pre‐puberal approximately 1 year old were studied by gross dissection. The ovaries of adult females without corpora lutea weighed 0.22 ± 0.02 g on the right and 0.20 ± 0.01 g on the left and accounted for 0.03 ± 0.01% of body weight. All corpora lutea (n = 6) were found in the right ovary, but in cases where there was no corpus luteum present, the right ovary tended to be heavier than the left (P = 0.1). The absence of ovarian bursa, intercornual ligament and suburethral diverticle is peculiar to this deer species. Only 6 convex caruncles were found in the uterine horns, which differ from the more of 100 present in domestic ruminants. Four regular folds that were observed in the cervix of the uterus should not be an obstacle to the passage of a transcervical catheter, allowing intrauterine artificial insemination. The close relationship between the ovarian artery and vein stood up could be associated with the passage of the uterine luteolytic factor from the vein to the ovarian artery, avoiding its systemic way, as happens in domestic ruminants. While the plan of organization was similar, there are some differences with the descriptions of other ruminants. Our results may be very useful as it provides with information that may be considered for the development of female reproductive biotechnologies.
Low Genetic Diversity of the Coat Protein Gene among Blueberry Red Ringspot Virus Isolates
Authors: Kalinowska Elżbieta , Paduch‐Cichal Elżbieta , Chodorska Maria
Published: July 2012

Blueberry red ringspot virus (BRRSV) isolates have been investigated for genetic diversity. Nucleotide sequences of the coat protein (CP) gene of 19 isolates from Poland, Czech Republic, Slovenia and the United States were analysed. The nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity were 92–100% and 89–100%, respectively. Estimations of the distribution of synonymous and non‐synonymous changes indicated negative selection within the analysed CP gene and confirmed the genetic stability of the virus. At a capsid protein level, our results revealed BRRSV to be distinct from other, recombination‐prone pararetroviruses.
Cultural and Aggressiveness Variability of Cercospora coffeicola
Authors: Souza André G. C. , Maffia Luiz A. , Mizubuti Eduardo S. G.
Published: July 2012

Although brown eye spot of coffee, caused by Cerco‐spora coffeicola, is important for coffee production in Brazil, there is a general lack of knowledge regarding the disease. In this study, we evaluated the variability of both the cultural and aggressiveness traits of 60 isolates from coffee plants grown under conventional and organic systems in three regions of Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Variability among the isolates was detected with regard to all of the traits and was unrelated to an effect of either the region or cropping system. Mycelial growth, cercosporin production and sporulation were assessed in the laboratory. Of the 60 isolates, 27 did not sporulate at 25°C; the mycelial growth of all of the isolates and cercosporin production by 18 of the isolates linearly increased as the temperature rose from 18 to 26°C. We inoculated six selected isolates on plants of two coffee cultivars (‘Catuaí Vermelho IAC44’ and ‘Catucaí Vermelho 785‐15’) and evaluated the incubation period (IP), latent period (LP) and disease severity. All three of these traits were affected by temperature postinoculation and KCl amendment. The significant correlations were as follows: IP and LP in both cultivars; severity and leaf fall in both cultivars; and cercosporin production in vitro and severity values in ‘Catucaí Vermelho 785‐15’. In conclusion, we found that (i) C. coffeicola is highly variable for both cultural and aggressiveness traits; (ii) laboratory and glasshouse experiments were suitable to assess the pathogen variability; (iii) research protocols should account for the effect of environmental factors, such as temperature and KCl, on the traits evaluated; and (iv) these protocols should include the assessment of the IP instead of the LP, as both are correlated, and the IP is easier to evaluate.
Comparison of gene expression profiles in cultivated peanut (Arachis hypogaea) under strong artificial selection
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Hong Yanbin , Zhang Erhua , Liu Haiyan , Zhou Guiyuan , Li Shaoxiong , Zhu Fanghe , Guo Baozhu , Yu Jiujiang , Liang Xuanqiang
Published: July 2012

With 9 figures and 1 table

Over the past five decades, cultivated peanut in China has been subjected to strong artificial selection in breeding programmes. To investigate the impact of artificial selection on expression diversity, we compared gene expression profiles in pod and leaf of five widespread cultivars in Southern China. In terms of tissues, hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that expression data of pod and leaf generated different dendrograms owing to artificial selection.K‐means analysis also showed that there were 16 gene expression patterns in leaf, while only eight in pod. In considering cultivars, a cultivar specificity index (τ) was employed to characterize expression patterns, which suggested that genes having 0.15 < τ < 0.85 constituted >80% of all expression patterns. Additionally, the diversity of gene expression in pod among cultivars of the ‘YY7’ pedigree decreased from 23.8% to 3.9%. Taken together, nucleotide polymorphisms in regulatory elements owing to artificial selection led to low‐expression polymorphisms in both tissues and cultivars, contributed to the narrow genetic diversity and might be a driving force behind the breeding of cultivated peanut.
Predicting malignancy in mediastinal lymph nodes by endobronchial ultrasound: A new ultrasound scoring system
Authors: SCHMID‐BINDERT GERALD , JIANG HONGBIN , KÄHLER GEORG , SAUR JOACHIM , HENZLER THOMAS , WANG HAO , REN SHENGXIANG , ZHOU CAICUN , PILZ LOTHAR R.
Published: July 2012

Background and objective:  Endobronchial ultrasound (EBUS) is now widely used in patients with resectable non‐small‐cell lung cancer to sample mediastinal lymph nodes (LN) for preoperative staging. The aim of this study was to investigate prospectively the utility of six ultrasound criteria to predict malignancy in mediastinal LN.

Methods:  EBUS was performed in patients with mediastinal lymphadenopathy irrespective of the underlying disease. The following criteria were expected to predict malignancy: short axis >1 cm, heterogeneous pattern, round shape, distinct margin, absence of a central hilar structure and high blood flow in a LN. A sum score prediction model for malignancy was built. If more than two criteria were present, LN was classified as high risk for malignancy. Moreover, interrater variability of two blinded investigators was evaluated.

Results:  Two hundred eighty‐one LN in 145 patients were analysed. Forty‐four percent of LN were found malignant, 10% revealed sarcoidosis, and 10% revealed tuberculosis. Interobserver agreement was very good. Positive predictive value was best for heterogeneity (73%), with a negative predictive value of more than 80%. The sum score resulted in an odds ratio of 15.5 if more than two criteria were positive (P < 0.00001).

Conclusions:  The assessment of ultrasound criteria during routine EBUS examinations is feasible and reproducible with very good interrater agreement. If less than three of the described criteria are present, a LN has a very low chance of being malignant. The best single criterion to predict malignancy is heterogeneity. The introduction of the sum score of ultrasound criteria could potentially increase diagnostic accuracy.
Bone‐anchored sling using the Mini Quick Anchor Plus and polypropylene mesh to treat post‐radical prostatectomy incontinence: Early experience
Authors: Suzuki Yasutomo , Saito Yuka , Ogushi Satoko , Kimura Go , Kondo Yukihiro
Published: July 2012

Herein we describe our experience with a bone‐anchored sling using a suture anchor and polypropylene mesh for the treatment of post‐radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence. Eight patients with urinary incontinence as a result of intrinsic sphincter deficiency after radical prostatectomy were included in the analysis. The procedure involved piercing the pubic bone with a bone drill, inserting the suture anchor and fixing a soft or rigid polypropylene mesh to press firmly on the bulbar urethra. Urinary incontinence was significantly improved according to changes in the daily number of pads used at 1, 3 and 6 months postoperatively in comparison with preoperatively. However, no meaningful improvement at 6 months postoperatively was seen with the soft mesh. Complications included perineal pain in four cases, but pain control was achieved using non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs. The bone‐anchored sling with a suture anchor and polypropylene mesh appears to be safe and effective for the treatment of post‐radical prostatectomy urinary incontinence. Soft mesh appears inappropriate as material for the bone‐anchored sling because of the progressive likelihood of worsened urinary incontinence.