bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
HRM technology for the identification and characterization of INDEL and SNPs mutations in genes involved in drought and salt tolerance of durum wheat
Authors: Mondini Linda , Nachit Miloudi M. , Porceddu Enrico , Pagnotta Mario A.
Published: March 2011

WRKY transcription factors are one of the largest families of transcriptional regulators and form an integral part of signalling webs which modulate many plant processes, such as abiotic stress tolerance. In the present paper, an innovative method has been applied to identify novel WRKY-1 alleles involved in the responses to salt and drought stresses in Triticum durum. This technique involves scanning for sequencing variations in cDNA-derived PCR amplicons, using high-resolution melting (HRM) followed by direct Sanger sequencing of only those amplicons which were predicted to carry nucleotide changes. HRM represents a novel advance in detection of single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) by measuring temperature-induced strand separation of short PCR amplicons. The use of this approach is still limited in the field of plant biology. Here, HRM analysis has been applied to the discovery and genotyping of durum wheat SNPs. Specific primers have been designed, starting at multi-alignment of WRKY-1-conserved portions. The PCR amplicons, containing single SNPs, produce distinctive HRM profiles, and by sequencing the PCR products identified, SNPs have been characterized and validated. The results showed that all the revealed SNPs are located on salt-tolerant varieties, confirming their value in breeding activities.
Rezidivierende Kopfschmerzepisoden
Authors: Preissler  , Gössi  , Eichhorn
Published: March 2011

Bei der Mollaret-Meningitis handelt es sich um eine rezidivierende Form der Meningitis, die in der Regel durch Herpes simplex Typ 2 ausgelöst wird. Die Symptomatik ist typisch für eine Meningitis. Andere Ursachen für rezidivierende/chronische Meningitiden müssen im Liquor ausgeschlossen werden. In der Regel verläuft die Mollaret-Meningitis benigne und es verbleiben keine Spätschäden. Zur Therapie liegen aufgrund der geringen Fallzahlen keine eindeutigen Daten vor.
Variants in the Inflammatory IL6 and MPO Genes Modulate Stroke Susceptibility Through Main Effects and Gene—Gene Interactions
Authors: Manso Helena , Krug Tiago , Sobral João , Albergaria Isabel , Gaspar Gisela , Ferro José M , Oliveira Sofia A , Vicente Astrid M
Published: March 2011

There is substantial evidence that inflammation within the central nervous system contributes to stroke risk and recovery. Inflammatory conditions increase stroke risk, and the inflammatory response is of major importance in recovery and healing processes after stroke. We investigated the role of inflammatory genes IL1B, IL6, MPO, and TNF in stroke susceptibility and recovery in a population sample of 672 patients and 530 controls, adjusting for demographic, clinical and lifestyle risk factors, and stroke severity parameters. We also considered the likely complexity of inflammatory mechanisms in stroke, by assessing the combined effects of multiple genes. Two interleukin 6 ( IL6) and one myeloperoxidase ( MPO) single-nucleotide polymorphisms were significantly associated with stroke risk (0.022corrected P < 0.042), highlighting gene variants of low to moderate effect in stroke risk. An epistatic interaction between the IL6 and MPO genes was also identified in association with stroke susceptibility ( P = 0.031 after 1,000 permutations). In a subset of 546 patients, one IL6 haplotype was associated with stroke outcome at 3 months (corrected P = 0.024), an intriguing finding warranting further validation. Our findings support the association of the IL6 gene and present novel evidence for the involvement of MPO in stroke susceptibility, suggesting a modulation of stroke risk by main gene effects, clinical and lifestyle factors, and gene–gene interactions.
Reading Comprehension: A Proposal for a Hybrid Approach
Authors: Allen Melissa M. , Petersen Douglas B.
Published: March 2011

This article presents reading comprehension from the narrow view of reading perspective. Comprehension is presented as linguistic in nature, no matter the modality in which the content occurs. The strategies, content, and targeted basal approaches are discussed. Speech-language pathologists possess unique knowledge that can promote linguistic comprehension before, during, and after text reading. A hybrid approach that includes strategy and content approaches is recommended because these approaches may improve linguistic comprehension of specific texts and the generalization of skills across texts.
Women Responding to the Anti-Islam Film Fitna: Voices and Acts of Citizenship on Youtube
Authors: Vis Farida , van Zoonen Liesbet , Mihelj Sabina
Published: March 2011

In 2008, Dutch anti-Islam Member of Parliament Geert Wilders produced a short video called Fitna to visualize his argument that Islam is a dangerous religion. Thousands of men and women across the globe uploaded their own videos to YouTube to criticize or support the film. In this article, we look at these alternative videos from a feminist perspective, contrasting the gender portrayal and narratives in Fitna with those in the alternative videos. We contend that Fitna expressed an extremist Orientalist discourse, in which women are presented as the current and future victims of the oppression of Muslim men and Islam. In contrast, the YouTube videos give voice to women themselves who come from across the globe, are relatively young and often active Muslims. Second, they express different view points in generically new ways, criticizing and ridiculing Wilders or producing serious and committed explanations of their own understanding of Islam. Third, although relatively few women appeared in the videos, those that did speak for themselves, not only take on Wilders, but also claim their right to speak within Islam. We propose to understand these videos as acts of citizenships through which women constitute themselves as global citizens, in some cases by engaging in ‘deliberation’ as it is understood in feminist political theory, in other cases by taking a ‘voice’ that can be responded to.
The qualitative interview and challenges for clinicians undertaking research: a personal reflection
Authors: Fisher Karin
Published: March 2011

Drawing on my doctoral experience the aim of this article is to present my transition from practitioner to novice researcher and the challenges I encountered when undertaking qualitative in-depth interviews. The contents of my research diary were coded for words, sentences and paragraphs and were then grouped into themes and subsequently organised into concepts and categories. The analysis identified one core category: ‘changing states: learning to become a researcher’. The related categories included ‘guessing responses’, ‘confusing boundaries’ and ‘revealing hidden concepts’. These concepts provide a description of how I learnt to become a researcher and became a changed state. The paper provides practitioners with practical examples of my transition from practitioner to novice researcher. I offer some tips for practitioners who wish to undertake research in their clinical role.
Dementia: opportunities for risk reduction and early detection in general practice
Authors: Millard Fiona B. , Kennedy R. Lee , Baune Bernhard T.
Published: March 2011

This project aimed to measure general practitioner (GP), practice nurse and patient health literacy about memory problems, dementia and its risk factors. Data were collected from general practices across Australia and a smaller sample in England. Questionnaires explored sources and adequacy of dementia knowledge and a randomised controlled trial tested the intervention of a dementia risk reduction pamphlet on patient knowledge of dementia risk reduction strategies. Data were analysed using SPSS software. The results of 621 questionnaires from patients aged over 30 years showed 37% had memory concerns, 6% recalled having a memory test, 52% would like a memory test and 15% had heard about dementia from their GP. Patients receiving the intervention were significantly more likely to be aware of dementia risk reduction strategies (P ≤ 0.005). The results of 153 GP/nurse questionnaires indicated 64% thought a doctor should discuss dementia with patients despite only 21% assessing their dementia knowledge as adequate. There was no significant difference in responses between Australia and England (P ≥ 0.05). The frequency of documentation of Mini-Mental State Examination and dementia diagnosis in computerised medical records of patients over 75 years was less than 0.01. These results demonstrate that many adult patients attending GPs have memory concerns, associate dementia with memory loss, and are receptive to information about dementia risk reduction. Most general practitioners and their nurses rate their dementia knowledge as inadequate with few testing for memory problems or discussing dementia with their patients.
Childhood obesity: how do Australian general practitioners feel about managing this growing health problem?
Authors: McMeniman Erin , Moore Romayne , Yelland Michael , McClure Rod
Published: March 2011

General practitioners (GPs) are ideally placed to identify and treat childhood obesity, but its prevalence continues to rise and evidence for effective GP interventions is lacking. Further analysis of the barriers to effective identification and management of childhood obesity is warranted. This survey aimed to explore how Queensland GPs feel about managing the growing problem of childhood obesity. A cross-sectional survey was sent to a random sample of 573 Queensland GPs about perceptions of diagnosis and management of childhood obesity. A total of 30% of GPs responded (n = 170). The main perceived obstacles to identification of childhood obesity were uncertainty about definition criteria and how to calculate body mass index, and lack of access to body mass index percentile charts. The main perceived obstacles in managing childhood obesity were lack of financial incentive, time constraints, lack of health system support and parental resistance. Only 22% of respondents indicated awareness of the National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines for management of obese children and 92% had never used any formal clinical guidelines in assessment or management of childhood obesity. Addressing these barriers to identification of childhood obesity by GPs may facilitate more effective management. Strategies include greater emphasis on this issue in general practice training, financial incentives for diagnosis and management, incorporating clinical management guidelines into medical software, and increasing allied and community health support.
Health status and use of health services among recently arrived men with refugee backgrounds: a comparative analysis of urban and regional settlement in South-east Queensland
Authors: Correa-Velez Ignacio , Barnett Adrian G. , Gifford Sandra M. , Sackey Donata
Published: March 2011

Approximately one-third of refugee and humanitarian entrants to Australia are adult men. Many of these men and their families settle in regional areas. Little is known about the health status of refugee men and the use of health services, and whether or not there are differences between those living in urban and regional areas. This paper reports on the cross-sectional differences in health status and use of health services among a group of 233 recently arrived refugee men living in urban and regional areas of South-east Queensland. Overall, participants reported good levels of subjective health status, moderate to good levels of well-being, and low prevalence of mental illness. Men living in urban areas were more likely to have a long-standing illness and report poorer health status than those settled in regional areas. In contrast, men living in regional areas reported poorer levels of well-being in the environment domain and were more likely to visit hospital emergency departments. Targeted health promotion programs will ensure that refugee men remain healthy and develop their full potential as members of the Australian community. Programs that facilitate refugees’ access to primary health care in regional areas may promote more appropriate use of hospital emergency departments by these communities.
Prescribing for the elderly: ethical considerations
Authors: Khalil Hanan
Published: March 2011

This article reports on a few ethical considerations associated with prescribing for the elderly. A large number of elderly people are on several medications for the treatment of various chronic conditions that develop with age. Most of these treatments involve symptom management and prevention of symptoms likely to occur from untreated diseases. Serious consideration should be given when prescribing for the elderly. These include: allowing the elderly and their families to be involved in their treatment; social support; and cost–benefit considerations. A lack of clear therapeutic guidelines exists for prescribing in this group of people that is confounded by factors such as quality of life and life expectancy.
Better knowledge, better health: piloting an education intervention in chronic condition self-management support
Authors: Newton Jennifer M. , Falkingham Leah , Clearihan Lyn
Published: March 2011

Chronic condition self-management and lifestyle risk modification education is paramount for General Practice registrars. A multi-dimensional learning package ‘Better Knowledge, Better Health’ was developed and piloted to improve General Practice registrars’ understanding of their role in supporting chronic condition self-management in patients with osteoarthritis. This pilot study was supported by the Australian Better Health Initiative. Pre-training learning needs analysis with a new intake of General Practice registrars (n = 40) indicated high levels of confidence in supporting patients in chronic condition management and lifestyle risk modification, and locating and interacting with local resources and allied health professionals. Conversely, interviews with General Practice Supervisors (n = 13) found most would not identify chronic condition self-management skills as priorities for registrar learning. Supervisors were also not familiar with core principles of chronic condition self-management, in particular application of motivational interviewing to behaviour change. Disparities between General Practice Supervisors’ perceptions of the importance of chronic condition self-management and lifestyle risk modification education and levels of access to learning opportunities in chronic condition self-management for registrars are discussed. Difficulties in implementing a pilot study within tight timeframes are also explored.
An autocrine TGF-β/ZEB/miR-200 signaling network regulates establishment and maintenance of epithelial-mesenchymal transition
Authors: Gregory Philip A. , Bracken Cameron P. , Smith Eric , Bert Andrew G. , Wright Josephine A. , Roslan Suraya , Morris Melanie , Wyatt Leila , Farshid Gelareh , Lim Yat-Yuen , Lindeman Geoffrey J. , Shannon M. Frances , Drew Paul A. , Khew-Goodall Yeesim , Goodall Gregory J.
Published: March 2011

Epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) is a form of cellular plasticity that is critical for embryonic development and tumor metastasis. A double-negative feedback loop involving the miR-200 family and ZEB (zinc finger E-box-binding homeobox) transcription factors has been postulated to control the balance between epithelial and mesenchymal states. Here we demonstrate using the epithelial Madin Darby canine kidney cell line model that, although manipulation of the ZEB/miR-200 balance is able to repeatedly switch cells between epithelial and mesenchymal states, the induction and maintenance of a stable mesenchymal phenotype requires the establishment of autocrine transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) signaling to drive sustained ZEB expression. Furthermore, we show that prolonged autocrine TGF-β signaling induced reversible DNA methylation of the miR-200 loci with corresponding changes in miR-200 levels. Collectively, these findings demonstrate the existence of an autocrine TGF-β/ZEB/miR-200 signaling network that regulates plasticity between epithelial and mesenchymal states. We find a strong correlation between ZEBs and TGF-β and negative correlations between miR-200 and TGF-β and between miR-200 and ZEBs, in invasive ductal carcinomas, consistent with an autocrine TGF-β/ZEB/miR-200 signaling network being active in breast cancers.
Altruism in networks: the effect of connections
Authors: Curry Oliver , Dunbar R. I. M.
Published: March 2011

Why are individuals altruistic to their friends? Theory suggests that individual, relationship and network factors will all influence the levels of altruism; but to date, the effects of social network structure have received relatively little attention. The present study uses a novel correlational design to test the prediction that an individual will be more altruistic to friends who are well-connected to the individual's other friends. The result shows that, as predicted, even when controlling for a range of individual and relationship factors, the network factor (number of connections) makes a significant contribution to altruism, thus showing that individuals are more likely to be altruistic to better-connected members of their social networks. The implications of incorporating network structure into studies of altruism are discussed.
An
ab initio
study of the effect of charge localization on oxygen defect formation and migration energies in magnesium oxide
Authors: Mulroue J. , Duffy D. M.
Published: March 2011

Plane-wave density functional theory was used to study the properties of oxygen vacancies and interstitials, with different charge states, in MgO. The calculated properties were the relaxed configurations, the Frenkel defect formation energies and the energies of the migration barriers, and all properties were found to be strongly dependent on the defect charge state. The lowest energy configuration of the O
2−
interstitial was found to be the cube centre; however, the O
−
and O
0
interstitials formed dumb-bell configurations. The Frenkel defect energies were also strongly dependent on the defect charge, with the neutral pair energy calculated to be 3 eV lower than the doubly charged Frenkel pair defect energy. The migration barriers of the oxygen vacancies were found to increase as the net charge of the oxygen vacancies decreased, which suggests that vacancies with trapped electrons are much less mobile than the F
2+
vacancies modelled by classical potentials. The migration of the oxygen interstitials showed particularly interesting behaviour. The O
0
interstitial was found to have a higher migration barrier than the O
2−
interstitial but a very low barrier (0.06 eV) was found for the O
−
interstitial. The results have significant implications for the reliability of classical radiation damage simulations.
Lifetime selection on a hypoallometric size trait in the spotted hyena
Authors: Swanson Eli M. , Dworkin Ian , Holekamp Kay E.
Published: March 2011

Size-related traits are common targets of natural selection, yet there is a relative paucity of data on selection among mammals, particularly from studies measuring lifetime reproductive success (LRS). We present the first phenotypic selection analysis using LRS on size-related traits in a large terrestrial carnivore, the spotted hyena, which displays a rare pattern of female-biased sexual size dimorphism (SSD). Using path analysis, we investigate the operation of selection to address hypotheses proposed to explain SSD in spotted hyenas. Ideal size measures are elusive, and allometric variation often obfuscates interpretation of size proxies. We adopt a novel approach integrating two common methods of assessing size, and demonstrate lifetime selection on size-related traits that scale hypoallometrically with overall body size. Our data support selection on hypoallometric traits in hyenas, but not on traits exhibiting isometric or hyperallometric scaling relationships, or on commonly used measures of overall body size. Our results represent the first estimate of lifetime selection on a large carnivore, and suggest a possible route for maintenance of female-biased SSD in spotted hyenas. Finally, our results highlight the importance of choosing appropriate measures when estimating animal body size, and suggest caution in interpreting selection on size-related traits as selection on size itself.
Leadership in elephants: the adaptive value of age
Authors: McComb Karen , Shannon Graeme , Durant Sarah M. , Sayialel Katito , Slotow Rob , Poole Joyce , Moss Cynthia
Published: March 2011

The value of age is well recognized in human societies, where older individuals often emerge as leaders in tasks requiring specialized knowledge, but what part do such individuals play in other social species? Despite growing interest in how effective leadership might be achieved in animal social systems, the specific role that older leaders may play in decision-making has rarely been experimentally investigated. Here, we use a novel playback paradigm to demonstrate that in African elephants (
Loxodonta africana
), age affects the ability of matriarchs to make ecologically relevant decisions in a domain critical to survival—the assessment of predatory threat. While groups consistently adjust their defensive behaviour to the greater threat of three roaring lions versus one, families with younger matriarchs typically under-react to roars from male lions despite the severe danger they represent. Sensitivity to this key threat increases with matriarch age and is greatest for the oldest matriarchs, who are likely to have accumulated the most experience. Our study provides the first empirical evidence that individuals within a social group may derive significant benefits from the influence of an older leader because of their enhanced ability to make crucial decisions about predatory threat, generating important insights into selection for longevity in cognitively advanced social mammals.
RAP80-directed tuning of BRCA1 homologous recombination function at ionizing radiation-induced nuclear foci
Authors: Hu Yiduo , Scully Ralph , Sobhian Bijan , Xie Anyong , Shestakova Elena , Livingston David M.
Published: March 2011

In response to DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs), BRCA1 forms biochemically distinct complexes with certain other DNA damage response proteins. These structures, some of which are required for homologous recombination (HR)-type DSB repair, concentrate at distinct nuclear foci that demarcate sites of genome breakage. Polyubiquitin binding by one of these structures, the RAP80/BRCA1 complex, is required for efficient BRCA1 focal recruitment, but the relationship of this process to the execution of HR has been unclear. We found that this complex actively suppresses otherwise exaggerated, BRCA1-driven HR. By controlling the kinetics by which other BRCA1-interacting proteins that promote HR concentrate together with BRCA1 in nuclear foci, RAP80/BRCA1 complexes suppress excessive DSB end processing, HR-type DSB repair, and overt chromosomal instability. Since chromosomal instability emerges when BRCA1 HR function is either unbridled or absent, active tuning of BRCA1 activity, executed in nuclear foci, is important to genome integrity maintenance.
Resveratrol – pills to replace a healthy diet?
Authors: Chachay Veronique S. , Kirkpatrick Carl M. J. , Hickman Ingrid J. , Ferguson Maree , Prins Johannes B. , Martin Jennifer H.
Published: March 2011

Nutrapharmacology, or the use of bioactive food compounds at pharmacological doses is emerging as a therapeutic approach to target the complex metabolic dysregulations in ageing and obesity‐related chronic disease. Resveratrol, a polyphenol found in the skin of grapes, and other edible plants and related food products, has received extensive attention through the link with the French paradox, and later with its chemopreventive activity demonstrated in vitro and in animal cancer models. A plethora of laboratory investigations has provided evidence for the multi‐faceted properties of resveratrol and suggests that resveratrol may target ageing and obesity‐related chronic disease by regulating inflammation and oxidative stress. A number of obstacles stand in the path to clinical usage however, not least the lack of clinical evidence to date, and the myriad of doses and formulations available. Further, data on the effects of resveratrol consumption in a capsule vs. food form is conflicting, and there are uncertain effects of long term dosing. The review will summarize the human pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic published data, and the topics for research if resveratrol is to become a multi‐target therapeutic agent addressing chronic disease.
Participation in communication and decision‐making: children and young people’s experiences in a hospital setting
Authors: Coyne Imelda , Gallagher Pamela
Published: March 2011

Aim.  To explore hospitalised children and young people’s experiences of participation in communication and decision‐making.

Background.  There is a growing recognition internationally that children and young people have a right to participate in matters that affect their lives. Although this has led to more support for children’s participation in communication exchanges and decision‐making in health care, there remains a lack of studies in this area.

Design.  Qualitative.

Method.  Data were obtained through a combination of focus groups and single interviews with participants aged 7–18 (n = 55), from three hospitals in Ireland.

Results.  Children wanted to be included in communication exchanges but appeared to occupy a marginal role with discussions largely carried out between parents and health professionals. They wanted to participate in ‘small’ everyday decisions about their care and treatment but were constrained mainly by adults’ actions.

Conclusion.  Although children want to be included in the decision‐making process, some prefer to leave the more ‘serious’ decisions to parents and health professionals, whilst others prefer to share the decision. Children’s preferences can vary; therefore, decision‐making should be seen as being on a continuum rather than an ‘all or nothing’ basis.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Health care professionals and parents appear to play a significant role on whether children’s efforts to participate are facilitated and supported in the hospital setting. Clearly, some may have reservations/concerns about children’s participation, which suggests the need for clear guidelines/policies that reflect all stakeholder views. Children should be supported in having their voices heard in matters that directly affect their lives.
Early biting rhythm in the afro‐tropical vector of malaria, Anopheles arabiensis, and challenges for its control in Ethiopia
Authors: YOHANNES M. , BOELEE E.
Published: March 2011

The biting cycle of the malaria vector Anopheles arabiensis Patton (Diptera: Culicidae) was assessed by hourly light trap collections in three villages in Tigray, northern Ethiopia. Hourly catches were conducted in two houses in each village, for four consecutive nights. Light traps were set from 18.00 hours to 07.00 hours in houses in which people slept under untreated bednets. Anopheles arabiensis showed early biting activities, which peaked between 19.00 hours and 20.00 hours in the three villages; over 70% of biting activity occurred before 22.00 hours, when people typically retire to bed. This early biting activity may have a negative impact on the efficiency of bednets to control malaria.
Induction of ferredoxin‐NADP+ oxidoreductase and ferredoxin synthesis in pea root plastids during nitrate assimilation
Authors: Bowsher C.G. , Hucklesby D.P. , Emes M.J.
Published: March 2011

A 14.5 kDa protein with antigenic components in common with pea leaf ferredoxin was detected on transblots of the soluble proteins of pea root plastids. The amount of this protein was found to increase during the induction of nitrate assimilation in pea roots, reaching a maximal level at 8–12 h. Concurrent with this, a fourfold increase in NADPH‐dependent ferredoxin‐NADP+ oxidoreductase (FNR) activity was observed corresponding to an increase in the amount of this protein detected immunologically on transblots using a leaf FNR antibody. These changes were not observed in plastids from roots of plants grown on ammonia or depleted of nitrogen. It is suggested that in addition to the already well reported induction by nitrate of nitrate reductase and nitrite reductase, there is a co‐induction of a plastid located ferredoxin and FNR. Both these proteins are necessary for the transfer of reductant generated by the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway to nitrite reductase.
Conserved regulation of the soybean early nodulin ENOD2 gene promoter in determinate and indeterminate transgenic root nodules
Authors: Lauridsen Peter , Franssen Henk , Stougaard Jens , Bisseling Ton , Marcker Kjeld A.
Published: March 2011

The β‐glucuronidase (GUS) activity expressed from the soybean early nodulin ENOD2(B) gene promoter was localized histochemically in nodules of Lotus corniculatus and Trifolium repens. In both the determinate Lotus nodules and the indeterminate Trifolium nodules, activity was found in the parenchyma cells and especially in cells close to the vascular tissue of nodules. The characteristic cell‐specific expression of the soybean ENOD2 gene was therefore maintained by the ENOD2(B) promoter in the two developmentally different nodule types. Important DNA elements recognized in transgenic nodules were identified by deletion and hybrid promoter analysis in Lotus ***corniculatus. An indispensable positive element (PE) and a possible tissue specific element was defined between positions −1792 and −1582 from the transcription start site. Another qualitative control element located between −380 and −53 conferred the ENOD2 characteristic cell type expression on hybrid promoters. This element contains the conserved nodulin gene sequences CTCTT and AAAGAT.

In contrast to the ENOD2(B) promoter a chimeric leghemoglobin lbc3‐GUS gene was expressed in the infected cells of both types of nodules. In the indeterminate nodules expression was restricted to the interzone II‐III and the active nitrogen‐fixing zone III. Interchange of the distal strong positive element (SPE) of lbc3 and the ENOD2 positive element resulted in an expression pattern different from that observed for the lbc3 and ENOD2 genes, indicating that different interactions of trans‐acting factors are required for regulation of early as well as late nodulin genes.
Hypertension is positively associated with prostate cancer development in the TRAP transgenic rat model
Authors: Takeshita Kentaro , Takahashi Satoru , Tang Mingxi , Seeni Azman , Asamoto Makoto , Shirai Tomoyuki
Published: March 2011

Epidemiological data on the relationship between hypertension and prostate cancer development are conflicting. To cast light on this question, we performed animal experiments using hybrid rats generated by crossing the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR) or its normotensive control Wistar Kyoto (WKY) rat with a transgenic rat for adenocarcinoma of prostate (TRAP) that features development of adenocarcinoma at high incidence by 15 weeks of age. The number of adenocarcinomatous foci in the lateral prostate of hypertensive (TRAP × SHR)F1 rats was demonstrated to be significantly increased compared with those of normotensive (TRAP × WKY)F1 rats. In the ventral prostate, increase of carcinoma foci was also observed but did not reach significance. The number of cancer foci showing microinvasion in (TRAP × SHR)F1 rats was higher than that of (TRAP × WKY)F1 rats, but again without significance, while treatment with prazosin, an anti‐hypertensive agent, tended to decrease microinvasive carcinoma foci in both the ventral and lateral prostate. In conclusion, the present study provided additional evidence that high blood pressure is associated with prostate cancer risk.
Consequences of floral visits by ants and invasive honeybees to the hummingbird‐pollinated, Caribbean cactus Melocactus intortus
Authors: FAGUA J. CAMILO , ACKERMAN JAMES D.
Published: March 2011

The pink, tubular, nectariferous flowers of Melocactus intortus (Cactaceae) in Puerto Rico are visited by native hummingbirds (Anthracothorax dominicus), but also by invasive honeybees (Apis mellifera) and ants (Solenopsis sp.). We sought to determine if the bees and ants significantly alter the pollination of M. intortus by measuring pollinator effectiveness. Using traditional estimates of effectiveness (visitation rate and seed set), our results show that hummingbirds were the most effective pollinators as expected. Bees and ants were less effective, and their contributions were one‐fourth to one‐tenth of that observed for hummingbirds. We then modified this measure of effectiveness by adding two components, fitness of progeny and temporal availability of visitors, both of which refine estimates of flower visitor effectiveness. With these new estimations, we found that the effectiveness values of all three animal visitors decreased; however, the role of hummingbirds as the principal pollinator was maintained, whereas the effectiveness values of bees and ants approached zero. By these new measures of overall pollinator effectiveness, the invasive honeybees and ants have little effect on the reproductive success of M. intortus.
Vitamin B12 biosynthesis gene diversity in the Ross Sea: the identification of a new group of putative polar B12 biosynthesizers
Authors: Bertrand Erin M. , Saito Mak A. , Jeon Young Jae , Neilan Brett A.
Published: March 2011

Vitamin B12, a cobalt‐containing micronutrient, has been shown to limit phytoplankton growth in the Ross Sea of the Southern Ocean. However, B12 biosynthesis potential in this environment remains uncharacterized. Select bacteria and archaea synthesize B12 while many phytoplankton require it for growth. Low ratios of bacterial biomass production to primary productivity and high concentrations of labile cobalt in Antarctic surface water suggest that factors controlling bacterial growth rather than cobalt availability may determine vitamin production rates here. In order to assess B12 biosynthesis potential, degenerate polymerase chain reaction primers were designed to target the genetic locus cbiA/cobB, encoding cobyrinic acid a,c‐diamide synthase, a B12 biosynthesis protein. Sequencing the DNA compliment of Ross Sea 16S rRNA (see Supporting information) allowed targeting of cbiA/cobB probes to dominant bacterial groups. CbiA/cobB DNA sequences were successfully identified in clone libraries from the Ross Sea. To our knowledge, this study represents the first targeted molecular characterization of environmental B12 biosynthesis potential. A newly identified group of cbiA/cobB sequences dominated the diversity of the sequences retrieved; their expression was confirmed via mass spectrometry‐based peptide detection. These sequences seem to have originated from a previously undescribed group of bacteria that could dominate the B12 biosynthesizing community in polar systems.
Complications during the initial experience with laparoendoscopic single‐site pyeloplasty
Authors: Best Sara L. , Donnally Chester , Mir Saad A. , Tracy Chad R. , Raman Jay D. , Cadeddu Jeffrey A.
Published: March 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Laparoendoscopic single‐site surgery (LESS) can provide cosmetic advantages to patients. However, LESS pyeloplasty and other reconstructive procedures pose substantial technical challenges compared to traditional laparoscopy. The impact these challenges have on the learning curves of these operations is incompletely understood.

This investigation reviews the initial experience of an experienced laparoscopist over the first 28 cases of LESS pyeloplasty he performed, providing insight into the learning curve as reflected by changes in operative time and post‐operative complications over time.

OBJECTIVE

• To review our initial series of laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) pyeloplasties, focusing on 30‐day complication rates as an indicator of learning curve, and to define the expected morbidity.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• The study comprised 28 patients who underwent LESS pyeloplasty by a single surgeon from October 2007.

• A chart review was undertaken to identify the complications that occurred within the first 30 days after surgery.

RESULTS

• The mean operating time was 197 min.

• Seven patients (25%) experienced a total of eight complications. Four patients required nephrostomy tube placement (14%) during the early postoperative period, two for symptomatic obstruction despite the ureteral stent and two for a urine leak. Another had urine leakage that resolved spontaneously after she went home with the surgical drain for 1 week. One patient (4%) developed a retroperitoneal haematoma and required blood transfusion and one had haematuria that prolonged hospital stay by 2 days.

• Of the patients experiencing complications, 71% were in the first ten cases. Only two complications occurred in the subsequent 18 patients.

CONCLUSIONS

• The LESS pyeloplasty procedure is a technically difficult, even for an experienced laparoscopic surgeon and the surgical challenges of this technique may translate to a higher complication rate for LESS than for conventional laparoscopic pyeloplasty early in the learning curve. However, within a relatively few cases, the complication rate is similar to that of standard laparoscopic pyeloplasty.

• Additional follow‐up is required to determine the long‐term success rate.
Treatment decision‐making in localized prostate cancer: why patients chose either radical prostatectomy or external beam radiation therapy
Authors: Ihrig Andreas , Keller Monika , Hartmann Mechthild , Debus Jürgen , Pfitzenmaier Jesco , Hadaschik Boris , Hohenfellner Markus , Herzog Wolfgang , Huber Johannes
Published: March 2011

Study Type – Therapy (case series)

Level of Evidence 4

What’s known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Our patients’ personal preferences are of major importance for decision‐making in localized prostate cancer. The study evaluates strategies in choosing either RP or EBRT. Typical modes of reasoning consist of personal beliefs in patients choosing RP and fear of treatment related side‐effects in the EBRT group.

OBJECTIVES

• To evaluate patients’ treatment decision‐making for localized prostate cancer.

• To determine their willingness to participate in a randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing radical prostatectomy (RP) with external beam radiation therapy (EBRT).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

• We investigated 31 patients with localized prostate cancer who had opted for either RP (n= 18) or EBRT (n= 13) as primary therapy.

• A semi‐structured interview and a short questionnaire were completed a few days after the start of treatment, covering all aspects of treatment decision.

RESULTS

• Most patients wanted to decide on their treatment together with their physician and were generally satisfied with the information provided. Internet resources were used more frequently by the RP group (14/18 patients) than by the EBRT group (three of 13 patients, P < 0.01).

• Physicians’ advice and other patients’ experiences were highly influential in the final treatment decisions.

• Patients deciding on RP were younger and their personal beliefs were their typical decision criteria (RP, six of 18 patients vs EBRT, none; P= 0.03). By contrast, possible treatment‐related side‐effects were a major concern for patients choosing EBRT (RP, two of 18, vs EBRT, seven of 14; P= 0.02).

• Only two patients (of 31, 6%) would have consented to random assignment to either RP or EBRT, while six (19%) patients were not averse.

CONCLUSIONS

• Patients are satisfied with the information provided and with their decision‐making process.

• Typical modes of reasoning can be found and mainly consist of personal beliefs in patients choosing RP and fear of treatment related side‐effects in those choosing EBRT.

• According to the sample, the participation rate for a RCT comparing RP to EBRT would not exceed 25% without further efforts.
Influence of fire history on small mammal distributions: insights from a 100‐year post‐fire chronosequence
Authors: Kelly Luke T. , Nimmo Dale G. , Spence‐Bailey Lisa M. , Haslem Angie , Watson Simon J. , Clarke Michael F. , Bennett Andrew F.
Published: March 2011

Aim  Fire affects the structure and dynamics of ecosystems world‐wide, over long time periods (decades and centuries) and at large spatial scales (landscapes and regions). A pressing challenge for ecologists is to develop models that explain and predict faunal responses to fire at broad temporal and spatial scales. We used a 105‐year post‐fire chronosequence to investigate small mammal responses to fire across an extensive area of ‘tree mallee’ (i.e. vegetation characterized by small multi‐stemmed eucalypts).

Location  The Murray Mallee region (104,000 km²) of semi‐arid Australia.

Methods  First, we surveyed small mammals at 260 sites and explored the fire responses of four species using nonlinear regression models. Second, we assessed the predictive accuracy of models using cross‐validation and by testing with independent data. Third, we examined our results in relation to an influential model of animal succession, the habitat accommodation model.

Results  Two of four study species showed a clear response to fire history. The distribution of the Mallee Ningaui Ningaui yvonneae, a carnivorous marsupial, was strongly associated with mature vegetation characterized by its cover of hummock grass. The occurrence of breeding females was predicted to increase up to 40–105 years post‐fire, highlighting the extensive time periods over which small mammal populations may be affected by fire. Evaluation of models for N. yvonneae demonstrated that accurate predictions of species occurrence can be made from fire history and vegetation data, across large geographical areas. The introduced House Mouse Mus domesticus was the only species positively associated with recently burnt vegetation.

Main conclusions  Understanding the impact of fire over long time periods will benefit ecological and conservation management. In this example, tracts of long‐unburnt mallee vegetation were identified as important habitat for a fire‐sensitive native mammal. Small mammal responses to fire can be predicted accurately at broad spatial scales; however, a conceptual model of post‐fire change in community structure developed in temperate Australia is not, on its own, sufficient for small mammals in semi‐arid systems.
Screening for diabetes in optometry practices: acceptability to users
Authors: Howse Jennifer H , Jones Steve , Hungin A Pali S
Published: March 2011

Citation information: Howse JH, Jones S & Hungin APS. Screening for diabetes in optometry practices: acceptability to users. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 367–374. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00826.x

Purpose:  Diabetes is a leading cause of blindness in the working age population. While optometrists have an established role in screening people with known diabetes for eye disease, their role in screening for diabetes has not been evaluated. For diabetes screening in optometry practices to be successful it must be acceptable to both optometrists and to the public. The purpose of this study was to determine acceptability to people attending optometry practices of using random capillary blood glucose (rCBG) tests to detect raised blood glucose levels in optometry practices.

Methods:  A screening service offering people with risk factors or symptoms of diabetes rCBG tests was piloted in five high street opticians’ practices in North East England. One thousand and two people used the screening service during a 20 week period. Each was given a questionnaire to complete and return following a rCBG test.

Results:  Nine hundred and thirty‐nine questionnaires were returned (return rate 93.7%). The mean age of participants was 54.5 years, 63.3% were female and 75.0% had not been screened for diabetes previously. 99.1% agreed or strongly agreed that the location was convenient for them and 98.0% would recommend others to use the screening service. 83.8% of the participants would not have gone elsewhere to have any tests done and 148 (16.2%) responded that they would have sought a test elsewhere; 14.2% at the GP, 0.8% at a pharmacy and 0.5% elsewhere. Only 3.2% reported that the test procedure was uncomfortable.

Conclusions:  To those attending opticians’ practices, screening using rCBG tests is acceptable in terms of convenience and test comfort, and they would recommend the test to others. Screening in optometry practices provides an opportunity to identify people at risk of diabetes in a hitherto unutilised setting.
Recording and automated analysis of naturalistic bioptic driving
Authors: Luo Gang , Peli Eli
Published: March 2011

Citation information: Luo G & Peli E. Recording and automated analysis of naturalistic bioptic driving. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 318–325. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00829.x

Purpose:  People with moderate central vision loss are legally permitted to drive with a bioptic telescope in 39 US states and the Netherlands, but the safety of bioptic driving remains highly controversial. There is no scientific evidence about bioptic use and its impact on safety. We propose searching for evidence by recording naturalistic driving activities in patients’ cars.

Methods:  In a pilot study we used an analogue video system to record two bioptic drivers’ daily driving activities for 10 and 5 days, respectively. In this technical report, we also describe our novel digital system that collects vehicle manoeuvre information and enables recording over more extended periods, and discuss our approach to analyzing the vast amount of data.

Results:  Our observations of telescope use by the pilot subjects were quite different from their reports in a previous survey. One subject used the telescope only seven times in nearly 6 h of driving. For the other subject, the average interval between telescope use was about 2 min, and Mobile (cell) phone use in one trip extended the interval to almost 5 min. We demonstrate that computerized analysis of lengthy recordings based on video, GPS, acceleration, and black box data can be used to select informative segments for efficient off‐line review of naturalistic driving behaviours.

Conclusions:  The inconsistency between self reports and objective data as well as infrequent telescope use underscores the importance of recording bioptic driving behaviours in naturalistic conditions over extended periods. We argue that the new recording system is important for understanding bioptic use behaviours and bioptic driving safety.
CAN INVESTMENT IN INTANGIBLES EXPLAIN THE SWEDISH PRODUCTIVITY BOOM IN THE 1990s?
Authors: EDQUIST HARALD
Published: March 2011

In the early 1990s the Swedish economy experienced a severe economic and financial crisis which resulted in a substantial GDP decrease. Even though the crisis was not a complete surprise for many economists, almost no one expected that the Swedish economy would be prospering with booming productivity growth only a few years later. Economists have presented three explanations for the fast recovery and productivity growth in 1995–2006: market reforms, crisis recovery, and the impact of ICT. This paper offers an alternative view, emphasizing instead firms' substantial investment in intangible assets such as R&D, design, and advertising. Based on the growth accounting framework, intangible capital accounted for more than 30 percent of the labor productivity growth in the Swedish business sector from 1995 to 2006. Thus, Swedish TFP growth, one of the highest among OECD countries, is reduced substantially when investment in intangibles is included in the growth accounting analysis.