bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Triplet-repeat oligonucleotide-mediated reversal of RNA toxicity in myotonic dystrophy
Authors: Mulders Susan A. M. , van den Broek Walther J. A. A. , Wheeler Thurman M. , Croes Huib J. E. , van Kuik-Romeijn Petra , de Kimpe Sjef J. , Furling Denis , Platenburg Gerard J. , Gourdon Geneviève , Thornton Charles A. , Wieringa Bé , Wansink Derick G.
Published: August 2009

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is caused by toxicity of an expanded, noncoding (CUG)n tract in DM protein kinase (DMPK) transcripts. According to current evidence the long (CUG)n segment is involved in entrapment of muscleblind (Mbnl) proteins in ribonuclear aggregates and stabilized expression of CUG binding protein 1 (CUGBP1), causing aberrant premRNA splicing and associated pathogenesis in DM1 patients. Here, we report on the use of antisense oligonucleotides (AONs) in a therapeutic strategy for reversal of RNA-gain-of-function toxicity. Using a previously undescribed mouse DM1 myoblast−myotube cell model and DM1 patient cells as screening tools, we have identified a fully 2′-O-methyl-phosphorothioate-modified (CAG)7 AON that silences mutant DMPK RNA expression and reduces the number of ribonuclear aggregates in a selective and (CUG)n-length-dependent manner. Direct administration of this AON in muscle of DM1 mouse models in vivo caused a significant reduction in the level of toxic (CUG)n RNA and a normalizing effect on aberrant premRNA splicing. Our data demonstrate proof of principle for therapeutic use of simple sequence AONs in DM1 and potentially other unstable microsatellite diseases.
Cancer cell–derived microparticles bearing P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 accelerate thrombus formation in vivo
Authors: Thomas Grace M. , Panicot-Dubois Laurence , Lacroix Romaric , Dignat-George Françoise , Lombardo Dominique , Dubois Christophe
Published: August 2009

Recent publications have demonstrated the presence of tissue factor (TF)–bearing microparticles (MPs) in the blood of patients suffering from cancer. However, whether these MPs are involved in thrombosis remains unknown. We show that pancreatic and lung cancer cells produce MPs that express active TF and P-selectin glycoprotein ligand 1 (PSGL-1). Cancer cell–derived MPs aggregate platelets via a TF-dependent pathway. In vivo, cancer cell–derived MPs, but not their parent cells, infused into a living mouse accumulate at the site of injury and reduce tail bleeding time and the time to occlusion of venules and arterioles. This thrombotic state is also observed in mice developing tumors. In such mice, the amount of circulating platelet-, endothelial cell–, and cancer cell–derived MPs is increased. Endogenous cancer cell–derived MPs shed from the growing tumor are able to accumulate at the site of injury. Infusion of a blocking P-selectin antibody abolishes the thrombotic state observed after injection of MPs or in mice developing a tumor. Collectively, our results indicate that cancer cell–derived MPs bearing PSGL-1 and TF play a key role in thrombus formation in vivo. Targeting these MPs could be of clinical interest in the prevention of thrombosis and to limit formation of metastasis in cancer patients.
Evaluation of Genetic Diversity Among ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ Isolates Collected in Southeast Asia
Authors: Tomimura Kenta , Miyata Shin-ichi , Furuya Noriko , Kubota Kenji , Okuda Mitsuru , Subandiyah Siti , Hung Ting-Hsuan , Su Hong-Ji , Iwanami Toru
Published: August 2009

The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic diversity and relationships among ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ isolates from different hosts and distinct geographical areas in Southeast Asia. Genetic diversity among ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ was estimated by sequencing four well-characterized DNA fragments: the 16S ribosomal DNA (rDNA) and 16S/23S intergenic spacer regions; the outer membrane protein (omp) gene region; the trmU-tufB-secE-nusG-rplKAJL-rpoB region (gene cluster region); and the bacteriophage-type DNA polymerase region. The sequences of the 16S rDNA and 16S/23S intergenic spacer regions were identical among all ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ isolates. In contrast, nucleotide substitutions were observed in both the omp gene and the gene cluster regions. However, extended bacteriophage-type DNA polymerase sequences acquired by thermal asymmetric interlaced polymerase chain reaction provided the most sequence diversity among isolates. Phylogenetic analysis of the bacteriophage-type DNA polymerase sequences revealed three clusters in the Southeast Asian ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ population. All Indonesian ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ isolates clustered in one group. The other clusters were not correlated with geographic distribution. The differences in genetic sequences did not reflect differences in the original citrus host (mandarin or pummelo). These results suggest that the bacteriophage-type DNA polymerase region would be useful for molecular differentiation between different Southeast Asian ‘Ca. Liberibacter asiaticus’ isolates.
Genetic Diversity and Host Range Variation of Ralstonia solanacearum Strains Entering North America
Authors: Norman David J. , Zapata Mildred , Gabriel Dean W. , Duan Y. P. , Yuen Jeanne M. F. , Mangravita-Novo Arianna , Donahoo Ryan S.
Published: August 2009

Each year, large volumes of ornamental and food plant propagative stock are imported into the North America; occasionally, Ralstonia solanacearum is found systemically infecting this plant material. In this study, 107 new R. solanacearum strains were collected over a 10-year period from imported propagative stock and compared with 32 previously characterized R. solanacearum strains using repetitive polymerase chain reaction (rep-PCR) element (BOX, ERIC, and REP) primers. Additional strain comparisons were made by sequencing the endoglucanase and the cytochrome b561 genes. Using rep-PCR primers, populations could be distinguished by biovar and, to a limited extent, country of origin and original host. Similarity coefficients among rep-PCR clusters within biovars were relatively low in many cases, indicating that disease outbreaks over time may have been caused by different clonal populations. Similar population differentiations of R. solanacearum were obtained when comparing strain sequences using either the endoglucanase or cytochrome b561 genes. We found that most of the new biovar 1 strains of R. solanacearum entering the United States were genetically distinct from the biovar 1 strains currently found infecting vegetable production. These introduced biovar 1 strains also had a broader host range and could infect not only tomato, tobacco, and potato but also anthurium and pothos and cause symptoms on banana. All introductions into North America of race 3, biovar 2 strains in the last few years have been linked to geranium production and appeared to be clonal.
Independent Resistant Reactions Expressed in Root and Tuber of Potato Breeding Lines with Introgressed Resistance to Meloidogyne chitwoodi
Authors: Brown C. R. , Mojtahedi H. , Zhang L.-H. , Riga E.
Published: August 2009

Resistance to Meloidogyne chitwoodi was introgressed from Solanum bulbocastanum into the cultivated gene pool of potato. A single dominant gene is responsible for resistance to race 1 reproduction on the root system. An additional form of resistance was discovered in certain advanced backcross clones. A BC5 clone, PA99N82-4, resisted invasion of tubers by available nematode juveniles whether supplied by weeds or challenged by several root resistance-breaking pathotypes. This tuber resistance is inherited as a single dominant gene and is linked to RMc1(blb). Because this gene has been mapped to chromosome 11, tuber resistance genetic factors are inferred to be on the same chromosome in coupling phase. Among 153 progeny derived from crosses with PA99N82-4, 42 recombinants, comprising both resistant root/susceptible tuber and susceptible root/resistant tubers, were found while other progeny were doubly resistant (like PA99N82-4) or doubly susceptible. Therefore, the existence of two linked genetic factors controlling independently expressed traits is confirmed. The combination of the two phenotypes is likely to be a sufficient level of resistance to avoid tuber damage from circumstances that provide exogenous juveniles proximal to the tubers in the soil. These factors are weed hosts of M. chitwoodi host races and pathotypes of M. chitwoodi that overcome RMc1(blb). Under field conditions, where a resistance-breaking pathotype of M. chitwoodi was present, tuber-resistant PA99N82-4 breeding line produced tubers which were commercially acceptable and not culled. A related breeding line, root resistant but tuber susceptible, and Russet Burbank were severely tuber damaged and commercially unacceptable.
Identification of Two New Genes Conferring Resistance to Colletotrichum acutatum in Capsicum baccatum
Authors: Mahasuk P. , Taylor P. W. J. , Mongkolporn O.
Published: August 2009

Resistance to anthracnose, caused by Colletotrichum capsici and C. acutatum, was investigated in Capsicum baccatum PBC80 and PBC1422 and C. chinense PBC932. Mature green and ripe fruit were inoculated with 13 isolates of the two Colletotrichum species PBC80 contained the broadest spectrum of resistance to both Colletotrichum species because none of the isolates were able to infect the genotype. At both fruit maturity stages, PBC1422 was infected by only Colletotrichum acutatum. PBC932 at ripe fruit stage was infected by both C. capsici and C. acutatum, except for one isolate, 158ci, that did not infect PBC932. PBC932 at the mature green fruit stage was infected by only C. acutatum. An intraspecific cross between PBC80 and PBC1422 was developed to determine inheritance of resistance to C. acutatum. Anthracnose resistance was assessed at mature green and ripe fruit stages using 0 to 9 disease severity scores. Frequency distribution of the disease scores in the F2 and BC1 populations suggested a single recessive gene responsible for the resistance at mature green fruit stage and a single dominant gene for the resistance at ripe fruit stage. Linkage analysis between the two genes identified in both fruit maturity stages showed the genes to be independent. Based on phenotypic data, the two newly identified genes, co4 and Co5, from PBC80 appeared to be different loci from the co1 and co2 previously identified from PBC932 and will be valuable sources of resistance to anthracnose in chili breeding programs.
Specific Genes from the Potato Brown Rot Strains of Ralstonia solanacearum and Their Potential Use for Strain Detection
Authors: Guidot A. , Elbaz M. , Carrère Sébastien , Siri M. I. , Pianzzola M. J. , Prior P. , Boucher C.
Published: August 2009

Ralstonia solanacearum is the agent of bacterial wilt infecting >200 different plant species covering >50 botanical families. The genus R. solanacearum can be classified into four phylotypes and each phylotype can be further subdivided into sequevars. The potato brown rot strains of R. solanacearum from phylotype IIB, sequevar 1 (IIB1), historically known as race 3, biovar 2 strains, are responsible for important economic losses to the potato industry and threaten ornamental crop production worldwide. Sensitive and specific detection methods are required to control this pathogen. This article provides a list of 70 genes and 15 intergenes specific to the potato brown rot strains of R. solanacearum from phylotype IIB1. This list was identified by comparative genomic hybridization on microarray and subsequent polymerase chain reaction validation with 14 IIB1 strains against 45 non-IIB1 strains that covered the known genetic diversity in R. solanacearum. The microarray used consisted of the previously described microarray representative of the phylotype I strain GMI1000, to which were added 660 70-mer oligonucleotides representative of new genomic islands detected in the phylotype IIB1 strain IPO1609. The brown rot strain-specific genes thus identified were organized in nine clusters covering 2 to 29 genes within the IPO1609 genome and 6 genes isolated along the genome. Of these specific genes, 29 were parts of mobile genetic elements. Considering the known instability of the R. solanacearum genome, we believe that multiple probes are required to consistently detect all IIB1 strains and we recommend the use of probes which are not part of genetic mobile elements.
Trends in cancer incidence and mortality in Osaka, Japan: Evaluation of cancer control activities
Authors: Ito Yuri , Ioka Akiko , Tanaka Masahiro , Nakayama Tomio , Tsukuma Hideaki
Published: August 2009

It is essential to analyze trends in cancer incidence and mortality in the evaluation of cancer control activities. Previous studies from Japan, however, described trends in cancer incidence and mortality only qualitatively. There have been few studies that evaluated the trends quantitatively. We calculated age‐standardized mortality rates (1968–2006) and incidence rates (1968–2002) for overall cancer sites and for each major site (stomach, colorectal, liver, lung, prostate, breast, and uterus) in Osaka. We applied a joinpoint regression model to the trends in incidence and mortality, in order to identify the joinpoint and estimate annual percentage change. Then, we quantified the contribution of individual cancer sites to the change in overall cancer mortality rate. For the sites that made a major contribution, we estimated the contribution of the incidence reduction to the mortality reduction. In Osaka, the overall cancer mortality started to decrease from 1998. The decrease was largely attributable to the reduction of stomach and liver cancer mortality (73% for men, 53% for women). The reduction of mortality from the two cancer sites could be explained by the decrease in their incidences (more than 80% for stomach, approximately 100% for liver). Female breast cancer incidence and mortality were both increased probably due to lifestyle changes and delayed introduction of an effective screening program among Japanese. In conclusion, the decreased overall cancer mortality in Osaka during the study period was mainly due to natural decreases in the incidence of stomach and liver cancer, which were attributable to the decrease in risk factors. (Cancer Sci 2009: 100: 2390–2395)
CXCL16 in HIV infection – a link between inflammation and viral replication
Authors: Landrø L. , Damås J. K. , Halvorsen B. , Fevang B. , Ueland T. , Otterdal K. , Heggelund L. , Frøland S. S. , Aukrust P.
Published: August 2009

Background  While some chemokines are thought to be protective in HIV‐infected individuals by their ability to block HIV entry into T cells and macrophages, chemokines could also have harmful effects in HIV infection through their ability to promote inflammation. Here, we examined the regulation and the effects of CXCL16, a newly discovered chemokine of the CXC family, in HIV‐infected patients.

Materials and methods  We examined serum levels of CXCL16 in clinically well‐defined subgroups of HIV‐infected individuals both before (n = 62) and during HAART (n = 40) as well as in age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (n = 30). We also examined the effects of CXCL16 on inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory cytokines and HIV replication in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC).

Results  Our main and novel findings were: (i) HIV‐infected patients had significant raised CXCL16 levels according to disease severity and progression. (ii) During HAART, the immunological improvement was accompanied by a modest increase in CXCL16 level. (iii) While soluble CXCL16 promoted an anti‐inflammatory response in PBMC from those on successful HAART, it induced an inflammatory response and enhanced HIV replication in PBMC from those with high viral load irrespectively of ongoing HAART. (iv) Recombinant HIV‐tat protein significantly increased CXCL16 release in THP‐1 macrophages.

Conclusions  Our findings suggest a complex interaction between CXCL16 and HIV, promoting both inflammatory and anti‐inflammatory effects as well as HIV replication, partly dependent on accompanying HIV replication.
Global position analysis of the Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum‐sensing transcription factor LasR
Authors: Gilbert Kerrigan B. , Kim Tae Hoon , Gupta Rashmi , Greenberg E. Peter , Schuster Martin
Published: August 2009

In Pseudomonas aeruginosa quorum sensing (QS), the transcriptional regulator LasR controls the expression of more than 300 genes. Several of these genes are activated indirectly via a second, subordinate QS regulator, RhlR. Conserved sequence elements upstream of individual other genes have been shown to bind LasR in vitro. To comprehensively identify all regions that are bound by LasR in vivo, we employed chromatin immunoprecipitation in conjunction with microarray analysis. We identified 35 putative promoter regions that direct the expression of up to 74 genes. In vitro DNA binding studies allowed us to distinguish between cooperative and non‐cooperative LasR binding sites, and allowed us to build consensus sequences according to the mode of binding. Five promoter regions were not previously recognized as QS‐controlled. Two of the associated transcript units encode proteins involved in the cold‐shock response and in Psl exopolysaccharide synthesis respectively. The LasR regulon includes seven genes encoding transcriptional regulators, while secreted factors and secretion machinery are the most over‐represented functional categories overall. This supports the notion that the core function of LasR is to co‐ordinate the production of extracellular factors, although many of its effects on global gene expression are likely mediated indirectly by regulatory genes under its control.
Haem‐delivery proteins in cytochrome c maturation System II
Authors: Ahuja Umesh , Kjelgaard Peter , Schulz Benjamin L. , Thöny‐Meyer Linda , Hederstedt Lars
Published: August 2009

Cytochromes of the c‐type function on the outer side of the cytoplasmic membrane in bacteria where they also are assembled from apo‐cytochrome polypeptide and haem. Two distinctly different systems for cytochrome c maturation are found in bacteria. System I present in Escherichia coli has eight to nine different Ccm proteins. System II is found in Bacillus subtilis and comprises four proteins: CcdA, ResA, ResB and ResC. ResB and ResC are poorly understood polytopic membrane proteins required for cytochrome c synthesis. We have analysed these two B. subtilis proteins produced in E. coli and in the native organism. ResB is shown to bind protohaem IX and haem is found covalently bound to residue Cys‐138. Results in B. subtilis suggest that also ResC can bind haem. Our results complement recent findings made with Helicobacter CcsBA supporting the hypothesis that ResBC as a complex translocates haem by attaching it to ResB on the cytoplasmic side of the membrane and then transferring it to an extra‐cytoplasmic location in ResC, from where it is made available to the apo‐cytochromes.
Cation/proton antiporter complements of bacteria: why so large and diverse?
Authors: Krulwich Terry A. , Hicks David B. , Ito Masahiro
Published: August 2009

Most bacterial genomes have five to nine distinct genes predicted to encode transporters that exchange cytoplasmic Na+ and/or K+ for H+ from outside the cell, i.e. monovalent cation/proton antiporters. By contrast, pathogens that live primarily inside host cells usually possess zero to one such antiporter while other stress‐exposed bacteria exhibit even higher numbers. The monovalent cation/proton antiporters encoded by these diverse genes fall into at least eight different transporter protein families based on sequence similarity. They enable bacteria to meet challenges of high or fluctuating pH, salt, temperature or osmolarity, but we lack explanations for why so many antiporters are needed and for the value added by specific antiporter types in specific settings. In this issue of Molecular Microbiology, analyses of the pH dependence of cytoplasmic [Na+], [K+], pH and transmembrane electrical potential in the ‘poly extremophile’Natranaerobius thermophilus are the context for assessment of the catalytic properties of 12 predicted monovalent cation/proton antiporters in the genome of this thermophilic haloalkaliphile. The results provide a profile of adaptations of the poly extremophilic anaerobe, including a proposed role of cytoplasmic buffering capacity. They also provide new perspectives on two large monovalent cation/proton antiporter families, the NhaC and the cation/proton antiporter‐3 antiporter families.
Children with cerebral palsy: severity and trends over time
Authors: Surman Geraldine , Hemming Karla , Platt Mary J. , Parkes Jackie , Green Abbi , Hutton Jane , Kurinczuk Jennifer J.
Published: August 2009

Increasingly, more very‐low‐birthweight infants in the developed world are now expected to survive the neonatal period than was previously the case. There are concerns that there may be a related increase in the number of infants developing severe sensorimotor impairments. Pooled data from five registers contributing to the UK Network of Cerebral Palsy Registers, Surveys and Databases were used to identify patterns of motor impairment in relation to additional impairments and to birthweight, and to assess whether prevalence of cerebral palsy (CP) by birthweight and by severity of motor impairment had changed over time. Low‐birthweight infants are at greater risk of developing CP than larger‐birthweight babies.

The CP rate amongst children with birthweights <2500 g was significantly higher at 16 per 1000 livebirths [95% confidence interval (CI) 14.9, 16.2] than 1.2 per 1000 livebirths [95% CI 11, 1.2] for normal‐birthweight children. Despite being at greater risk of developing CP, smaller‐birthweight babies are proportionately less likely to develop the most severe forms of motor impairment. Of those born weighing ≥2500 g, 23% compared with 15% weighing <1000 g (P < 0.001) were in the most severely motor impaired group. Severe motor impairment is associated with higher levels of additional impairments. CP rates for each motor impairment group in the 1990s were similar to those in the late 1970s. Rates of CP among infants born below normal birthweight are high but have decreased over time. The CP rate for infants weighing 1000–1499 g at birth decreased from around 180 per 1000 livebirths in 1979 to around 50 per 1000 livebirths from the early 1990s onwards.
Self‐selection and bias in a large prospective pregnancy cohort in Norway
Authors: Nilsen Roy M. , Vollset Stein Emil , Gjessing Håkon K. , Skjærven Rolv , Melve Kari K. , Schreuder Patricia , Alsaker Elin R. , Haug Kjell , Daltveit Anne Kjersti , Magnus Per
Published: August 2009

Self‐selection in epidemiological studies may introduce selection bias and influence the validity of study results. To evaluate potential bias due to self‐selection in a large prospective pregnancy cohort in Norway, the authors studied differences in prevalence estimates and association measures between study participants and all women giving birth in Norway. Women who agreed to participate in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study (43.5% of invited; n = 73 579) were compared with all women giving birth in Norway (n = 398 849) using data from the population‐based Medical Birth Registry of Norway in 2000–2006. Bias in the prevalence of 23 exposure and outcome variables was measured as the ratio of relative frequencies, whereas bias in exposure‐outcome associations of eight relationships was measured as the ratio of odds ratios.

Statistically significant relative differences in prevalence estimates between the cohort participants and the total population were found for all variables, except for maternal epilepsy, chronic hypertension and pre‐eclampsia. There was a strong under‐representation of the youngest women (<25 years), those living alone, mothers with more than two previous births and with previous stillbirths (relative deviation 30–45%). In addition, smokers, women with stillbirths and neonatal death were markedly under‐represented in the cohort (relative deviation 22–43%), while multivitamin and folic acid supplement users were over‐represented (relative deviation 31–43%). Despite this, no statistically relative differences in association measures were found between participants and the total population regarding the eight exposure‐outcome associations.

Using data from the Medical Birth Registry of Norway, this study suggests that prevalence estimates of exposures and outcomes, but not estimates of exposure‐outcome associations are biased due to self‐selection in the Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study.
Trans‐Generational Influence of Human Disturbances in Japanese Quail: Egg Quality Influences Male Social and Sexual Behaviour
Authors: Bertin Aline , Hirschenhauser Katharina , Kotrschal Kurt
Published: August 2009

In many bird species prenatal exposure to yolk androgens of maternal origin has been found to influence offspring behavioural phenotype. In contrast to altricial birds, far less is known about maternal effects in precocial birds. In a previous experiment we found that female quail (Coturnix japonica) that were not previously habituated to humans (NH) produced eggs with less androgens (testosterone, androstenedione) and more progesterone when exposed to human disturbances than females habituated to humans (H). Here, we analysed social motivation and sexual behaviour of the male offspring of NH and H females. Classical behavioural test procedures were applied including separation, runway, partner choice and female encounter tests. As chicks, offspring of the NH females spent more time far from conspecifics than offspring of the H females. As adults, the same NH males showed less crowing and courtship behaviour (ritual preening) in female encounter tests than H males. Thus, maternal environment and egg quality may be key factors in the emergence of individual variability of appetitive behaviour, such as social proximity and courtship behaviour. Human disturbance of the mother seems to have triggered trans‐generational effects resulting in consistently reduced social and sexual motivation in offspring until adulthood.
Algorithm‐guided treatment versus treatment as usual for major depression
Authors: Yoshino Aihide , Sawamura Takehito , Kobayashi Nobuhisa , Kurauchi Sachi , Matsumoto Aki , Nomura Soichiro
Published: August 2009

Aims:  The remission rates for patients with major depressive disorder (MDD) during algorithm‐guided treatment (AGT), which consisted of four treatment strategy steps were prospectively compared with treatment as usual (TAU).

Methods:  The remission rates of patients with mild or moderate MDD during AGT (n = 83) were compared with TAU (n = 127).

Results:  The remission rate in the AGT group (60.2%) was approximately 10% greater than that in the TAU group (49.7%). The median number of days to achieve remission in the AGT group (93 days) was half as long as that in the TAU group (191 days). The hazard ratio of remission was 1.5 (95% confidence interval: = 1.2–1.8). A higher rate of lithium augmentation in the AGT group (20.5%) compared to theTAU (4.7%) may have led to the greater remission rate. Most participants who did not achieve remission either during the initial or second treatment steps dropped out from AGT.

Conclusions:  AGT may be superior to TAU for patients with mild or moderate MDD, based on the remission rates achieved. The later treatment steps in the AGT, however, were rarely utilized because participants who did not receive any benefit dropped out early.
Childhood emotional abuse and dissociation in patients with conversion symptoms
Authors: Sar Vedat , Islam Serkan , Öztürk Erdinç
Published: August 2009

Aim:  The aim of the present study was to evaluate the relationship between reported childhood trauma and dissociation in patients who have a conversion symptom.

Method:  Thirty‐two outpatients with a conversion symptom were evaluated using Dissociative Experiences Scale, Somatoform Dissociation Questionnaire, Childhood Trauma Questionnaire, Spielberger Trait Anxiety Inventory, Clinician‐Administered Dissociative State Scale, and Dissociative Disorders Interview Schedule.

Results:  A DSM‐IV dissociative disorder was diagnosed in 46.9% of the patients. Conversion patients with a dissociative disorder had borderline personality disorder more frequently than those without a dissociative disorder. Among childhood trauma types, emotional abuse was the only significant predictor of dissociation in regression analysis. None of the childhood trauma types predicted borderline personality disorder criteria.

Conclusions:  Borderline personality disorder, dissociation and reports of childhood emotional abuse refer to a subgroup among patients with conversion symptom. Dissociation seems to be a mediator between childhood trauma and borderline phenomena among these patients.
Differences in the structure, growth and survival of Parasenecio yatabei ramets with contrasting water relations on the slope of a stream bank
Authors: TOMIMATSU HAJIME , HOSODA JUN‐ICHI , HORI YOSHIMICHI
Published: August 2009

Parasenecio yatabei (Asteraceae), a summer‐green perennial herb, is widely distributed on sloping mountain stream banks in cool‐temperate zone forests of Japan. We investigated the growth pattern, leaf longevity and leaf water relations of vegetatively independent plants (ramets) growing in two contrasting soil water conditions, that is, upper and lower stream banks (U ramets and L ramets, respectively). The objective of the present study was to clarify the physiological and morphological responses of the ramets to soil water conditions. Dry matter allocation to subterranean parts was higher in U ramets than in L ramets. The U ramet leaves survived for approximately 2 months longer than L ramet leaves. The ratio of subterranean part to aerial part dry matter was greater in U ramets than L ramets. Leaf mass per leaf area (LMA) tended to be greater in U ramets than L ramets throughout the growing season. The leaf bulk modulus of elasticity at full hydration was significantly higher in U ramets. Thus, ramet growth patterns and morphological traits varied with changing soil water conditions. The greater longevity of U ramet leaves may play a role in compensating for the reduced annual net carbon gain caused by lower photosynthetic activity. U ramets growing in environments with less water availability achieved high water‐use efficiency by a high passive water absorption capacity via a progressed root system and high productivity via longer leaf longevity with higher LMA and elasticity. Therefore, P. yatabei growing along mountain streams could have the ability to colonize the upper bank through higher survivorship based on these traits.
Seed germination of four Jordanian Stipa spp: differences in temperature regimes and seed provenances
Authors: HAMASHA HASSAN R. , HENSEN ISABELL
Published: August 2009

Stipa steppes are considered to be an important model ecosystem in arid land ecology owing to their wide geographical distribution and their strong association with human activities. This paper presents data on the seed germination of four Jordanian Stipa species (Stipa capensis, Stipa parviflora, Stipa arabica and Stipa lagascae) that are widespread throughout various phytogeographical regions in Jordan. We studied variation in seed germination under laboratory conditions among populations and under various temperature regimes. There was significant variation in seed germination with temperature in all four species and seed provenance was significant for three out of the four species. The temperature levels that were most suitable for germination varied from low (8/4°C and 20/10°C) for S. lagascae to high (20/10°C and 32/20°C) for S. capensis; S. arabica and S. parviflora germinated equally well at all three temperature regimes. Variations among populations were species specific, but populations with the highest seed germination were always of arid and Saharan Mediterranean origin. Thus, seed germination was negatively correlated with annual precipitation. Such flexibility among temperatures and populations could be interpreted as an efficient survival strategy for species growing under unpredictable environmental conditions. Where artificial reseeding is necessary, differences among species and also among different seed provenances should be taken into account.
Fatigue‐relevant stress field parameters of welded lap joints: pointed slit tip compared with keyhole notch
Authors: LAZZARIN P. , BERTO F. , RADAJ D.
Published: August 2009

The notch stress intensity factor (NSIF) based analytical frame is applied to the slit tips (or weld roots) of welded joints with inclusion of the T‐stress component. This T‐stress can be determined from FE models evaluating the ligament stresses close to the pointed slit tip. An alternative analytical frame is presented for the corresponding keyhole notches based on analytical solutions from the literature, which are applied to the ligament stresses.

In the slit tip models, the mean local strain energy density (SED) with inclusion of the T‐stress effect is determined analytically and numerically in comparison, using two different fatigue‐relevant control radii, R0= 0.28 mm and R0= 0.15 mm, the former value well proven for thick‐sheet welded joints made of structural steel. The latter smaller value is tentatively proposed for thin‐sheet welded joints, in the direction suggested in the recent literature where a reduction of the microstructural support length for laser beam welds and resistance spot welds is recommended. The FEM‐based and analytical stress concentration factors (SCF) for the lap joint keyhole model and also the SED values for the corresponding pointed slit tips are found to be in good agreement. The J‐integral consisting of the first and second component (the latter containing the T‐stress) is compared with the corresponding SED values.
Global patterns in belowground communities
Authors: Fierer Noah , Strickland Michael S. , Liptzin Daniel , Bradford Mark A. , Cleveland Cory C.
Published: August 2009

Although belowground ecosystems have been studied extensively and soil biota play integral roles in biogeochemical processes, surprisingly we have a limited understanding of global patterns in belowground biomass and community structure. To address this critical gap, we conducted a meta‐analysis of published data (> 1300 datapoints) to compare belowground plant, microbial and faunal biomass across seven of the major biomes on Earth. We also assembled data to assess biome‐level patterns in belowground microbial community composition. Our analysis suggests that variation in microbial biomass is predictable across biomes, with microbial biomass carbon representing 0.6–1.1% of soil organic carbon (r2 = 0.91) and 1–20% of total plant biomass carbon (r2 = 0.42). Approximately 50% of total animal biomass can be found belowground and soil faunal biomass represents < 4% of microbial biomass across all biomes. The structure of belowground microbial communities is also predictable: bacterial community composition and fungal : bacterial gene ratios can be predicted reasonably well from soil pH and soil C : N ratios respectively. Together these results identify robust patterns in the structure of belowground microbial and faunal communities at broad scales which may be explained by universal mechanisms that regulate belowground biota across biomes.
Correlates of Collective Efficacy in the Italian Air Force
Authors: Borgogni Laura , Petitta Laura , Mastrorilli Andrea
Published: August 2009

Military technicians (N= 202) of the Telecommunication Maintenance Unit (TMU), as well as military staff (N= 185) in the Italian Air Force (IAF), were administered a questionnaire measuring self‐ and collective efficacy, perceptions of context (colleagues, direct superior, and top management), organisational commitment, and job satisfaction. Structural equation models support the hypothesised relationship among variables. Self‐efficacy and perceptions of context were related to collective efficacy which in turn was related to organisational commitment and job satisfaction. Collective efficacy was explained by self‐efficacy and by perceptions of context. In addition, organisational commitment was explained by collective efficacy, more so than job satisfaction. Perceptions of colleagues, direct superior, and top management were mainly related to job satisfaction.

202 techniciens militaires de l'Unité de Maintenance des Télécommunications ainsi que 185 militaires des Forces Aériennes Italiennes ont rempli un questionnaire portant sur l'efficience personnelle et collective, la perception de l'environnement (les collègues, le supérieur immédiat et le haut de la hiérarchie), l'implication organisationnelle et la satisfaction professionnelle. Des modèles en équations structurales ont confirmé les relations supposées entre les variables. L'efficience personnelle et la perception de l'environnement étaient liées à l'efficience collective qui était elle‐même en relation avec l'implication organisationnelle et la satisfaction professionnelle. L'efficience collective procédait de l'efficience personnelle et de la perception de l'environnement. En outre, l'implication organisationnelle dépendait de l'efficience collective, plus que de la satisfaction professionnelle. La perception des collègues, du supérieur immédiat et du haut de la hiérarchie étaient principalement en rapport avec la satisfaction professionnelle.
The additional value of ambulatory urodynamic measurements compared with conventional urodynamic measurements
Authors: Van Koeveringe Gommert A. , Rahnama’i Mohammad S. , Berghmans Bary C.M.
Published: August 2009

Study Type – Diagnostic (exploratory cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

OBJECTIVES

To study the additional diagnostic value of ambulatory urodynamic measurements/monitoring (AUM) in patients with lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

We reviewed the urodynamic data, collected at the urology department of our University Hospital between 2002 and 2007. During this period, 2393 urodynamic investigations were conducted. In 108 patients both conventional urodynamic measurements (CUM) and AUM were conducted.

RESULTS

In 25 patients an AUM was conducted for bladder evacuation problems due to absent bladder contractility, seen on CUM. In 21 cases, AUM showed the presence of contractility of the bladder under normal conditions at home. Their symptoms were due to other factors such as a concomitant non‐relaxation of the urinary sphincter or pelvic floor, psychological reasons or obstruction, for all of which treatment could be initiated. In 32 cases, the indication for AUM was an inconclusive CUM. Of these patients 16 had clear overactive contractions on AUM.

CONCLUSION

AUM has a more important place in the second‐line diagnostic evaluation of patients with LUTS than generally considered. In half of the cases (16 of 32) in which CUM could not provide a diagnosis, AUM helped us to diagnose overactive bladder. Moreover, in the absence of AUM, many patients would have been misdiagnosed with an acontractile bladder based on their CUM results, which would most probably have resulted in life‐time clean intermittent self‐catheterization.
The establishment of an academic nursing faculty: action research in Israel
Authors: Arieli D. , Friedman V.J. , Hirschfeld M.J.
Published: August 2009

Aim:  The aim of this paper is twofold: to conceptualize tensions related to the academization of nursing, and to analyse a case study, describing how such tensions were dealt with in the process of establishing a new nursing department.

Background:  This paper represents the first stage of a case study of the transformation of a hospital‐based nursing school into an academic programme, carried out as a joint venture between a local hospital school and a college in northern Israel.

Methods:  This paper is based on action research. The participants were 19 members of the new academic faculty and 3 members of an action research center.

Findings:  The three inter‐related tensions surfaced in the research process are: (1) the status of nursing and nurses, (2) the role of research and critical thinking in nursing education and practice, and (3) the characteristics of students, who should enrol in and graduate from nursing programmes, or in other words, the character of the ‘ideal nurse’.

Conclusions:  An action research process enables new teams to put tensions on the table so they can be openly addressed through ongoing reflection, inquiry, learning, evaluation and redesign.
The Bologna Agreement and its impact on the Master in Advanced Nursing Practice Program at Rotterdam University of Applied Science: incorporating mandatory internationalization in the curriculum
Authors: Maas‐Garcia L. , Ter Maten‐Speksnijder A.
Published: August 2009

Aim:  The aim of this paper is to discuss the impact on nursing education in the Netherlands since the implementation of the Bologna Agreement.

Background:  In 1999, the Bologna Agreement was constructed to establish a comparable and transferable degree system in universities within the European Union for nine subject areas (chemistry, physics, mathematics, geology, history, business, education science, nursing and European studies). The target date for implementation of the undergraduate and graduate degrees is 2010.

Conclusion:  Since 2004, Rotterdam University of Applied Science has offered a Master in Advance Nursing Practice degree. This graduate study offers nursing students the opportunity to continue career and academic mobility within the nursing profession. This paper reports on the need for internationalization within nursing curriculum to meet the demands of the increasingly mobile nursing workforce.
Support, satisfaction and retention among Jordanian nurses in private and public hospitals
Authors: AbuAlRub R.F. , Omari F.H. , Al‐Zaru I.M.
Published: August 2009

Purpose:  To investigate the relationships between social support, job satisfaction and intent to stay among Jordanian hospital nurses, and to compare the findings between private and public hospitals.

Design:  A correlational descriptive survey was used to investigate these relationships among convenience samples of Jordanian nurses in public (n = 288) and private hospitals (n = 195).

Methods:  Data were collected using a set of questionnaires that included the McCloskey/Mueller Satisfaction Scale, the Social Support Scale, the McCain's Intent to Stay Scale and a demographic form.

Findings:  The results indicated that when the levels of social support and job satisfaction increased, intent to stay at work increased as well. Nurses with high levels of social support indicated high levels of job satisfaction. Nurses in private hospitals reported higher levels of satisfaction and intent to stay than nurses in public hospitals.

Conclusion:  Nurse administrators and managers need to (1) investigate on a regular basis the contributors to satisfaction, and (2) incorporate support systems in their organizations to promote satisfaction and retention.
Organizational culture in nursing schools in Turkey: faculty members' perspectives
Authors: Kantek F. , Baykal U.
Published: August 2009

Background:  Among the benefits of examining an organization's culture are the opportunity to understand the basic mechanisms of the institutional and structural procedures, to determine the need for change and to ensure the development and satisfaction of the faculty members.

Aim:  To determine the perceptions of faculty members of organizational culture at nursing schools in Turkey and to examine different perceptions in relation to demographic variables.

Method:  The study was conducted with 180 faculty members from seven nursing schools in state universities located in different geographical regions of Turkey that granted permission for the study. All faculty members in these schools with at least 1 year of institutional experience were included in the research. No sampling was required. A demographic information form and an organizational culture scale were used as data collection materials. The organizational culture scale contains 30 items and resolves the organizational culture in three dimensions. The minimum score obtained was 1 and the maximum was 5.

Findings:  The mean score for faculty members' in total scale was 3.40 (SD = 0.68), while it was 3.26 (SD = 0.77) for the management style dimension, 3.39 (SD = 0.73) for the organizational commitment/relations dimension and 3.68 (SD = 0.73) for the student‐oriented dimension. There was no statistical difference between the perception of organizational culture and work experience at the institution, marital status or educational status, but there were differences in age, number of years in the profession and academic titles.

Conclusion:  It was found that strong perceptions have been established in nursing schools in regard to student‐oriented practices, and that groups consisting of senior academic personnel and experienced academicians are considered to be better at perceiving the importance of the organizational culture. The administrators are recommended to promote policies to enhance the participation in decision‐making processes and regularly monitor the cultural changes in the organization.
Perceptions of family planning among low‐income men in Western Kenya
Authors: Wambui T. , Ek A.‐C. , Alehagen S.
Published: August 2009

Background:  Men have rarely been involved in either receiving or providing information on sexuality, reproductive health or birth spacing. They have also been ignored or excluded in one way or the other from participating in many family planning programmes as family planning is viewed as a woman's affair.

Aim:  To describe the perceptions of family planning among low‐income men in Western Kenya.

Methods:  A qualitative study using focus group interviews and content analysis was conducted, with 64 men aged 15–54 years participating actively.

Findings:  Perceptions of family planning were manifold. For example, some perceived it as meaning having the number of children one is able to provide for. Most men knew about traditional and modern methods of birth control, although their knowledge was poor and misconceived. Modern methods were thought to give side effects, discouraging family planning. Low instances of family planning were also because of the fact that culturally, children are considered wealth. A law advocating family size limitation was regarded as necessary for the future.

Conclusion:  Men's perceptions of family planning are manifold. Their knowledge about contraception is poor and sometimes misconceived. Preferences regarding a child's gender are strong, thus attitudes and cultural beliefs that might hinder family planning have to be considered. A policy on male contraception and contraceptive services is seen as necessary.