bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use of altered peptide ligands to modulate immune responses as a possible immunotherapy for allergies
Authors: De Palma R. , Sacerdoti G. , Abbate G. F. , Martucci P. , Mazzarella G.
Published: October 2010

Allergies are dramatically increasing in prevalence, and the management of these diseases is a heavy burden on the health‐care systems of developed countries. In recent years, many efforts have been made to improve the therapy of allergies and to develop new approaches for immunotherapy. Here we briefly review the use of peptides to modulate T‐cell responses to allergens. We focus mainly on the possibility of using altered peptide ligands (APLs), i.e., peptides tailored on immunodominant T epitopes and bearing a single amino‐acid substitution, as a tool to modulate immune responses to allergens. These peptides may be recognized by the specific T cells triggered by the agonist peptides, but they are unable to elicit T‐cell responses; thus, they could be ideal candidates to modulate immune responses to allergens. The availability of these peptides could allow new approaches for immunotherapies.
Expression of adhesion molecules on cord‐blood‐derived, cultured human mast cells and effect of dexamethasone on intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 expression on the mast cells treated by phorbol myristate acetate
Authors: Inamura H. , Kurosawa M. , Kuwasaki T. , Kamada Y. , Kayaba H. , Chihara J.
Published: October 2010

Background: Increase in mast‐cell number at sites of allergic inflammation has been observed, and glucocorticoids applied to the sites have been shown to result in a significant reduction in mast cells. However, the expression of adhesion molecules on cultured human mast cells and their regulation by glucocorticoids is poorly understood.

Methods: Cultured human mast cells were raised from human umbilical cord‐blood cells, and the expression of adhesion molecules on the mast cells was analyzed by flow cytometry. The cells were also incubated with 10 ng/ml phorbol myristate acetate (PMA) for the indicated time, and the effect of dexamethasone on adhesion molecule expression on PMA‐treated, cultured human mast cells was examined.

Results: Cord‐blood‐derived, cultured human mast cells constitutively expressed intercellular adhesion molecule‐1 (ICAM‐1), very late antigen‐4 (VLA‐4), and macrophage‐1 antigen (Mac‐1). Weak expression of lymphocyte function‐associated antigen‐1 (LFA‐1) was observed on the cells, whereas they failed to express vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 (VCAM‐1). Kinetic studies showed that after a transient downregulation reaching a minimum at 8 h, the expression of ICAM‐1 was markedly upregulated on PMA‐treated mast cells after a 24‐h incubation. In contrast, the expression of VLA‐4 and Mac‐1 was decreased after the incubation with PMA for 24 h. The PMA‐induced upregulation of ICAM‐1 was inhibited by dexamethasone in a concentration‐dependent manner.

Conclusions: Our results indicate that cord‐blood‐derived, cultured human mast cells constitutively express integrins and ICAM‐1, but not VCAM‐1, and demonstrate for the first time that dexamethasone inhibits the upregulation of ICAM‐1 on PMA‐treated, cultured human mast cells.
Functional White-Laser Imaging to Study Brain Oxygen Uncoupling/Recoupling in Songbirds
Authors: Mottin Stéphane , Montcel Bruno , de Chatellus Hugues Guillet , Ramstein Stéphane
Published: October 2010

Contrary to the intense debate about brain oxygen dynamics and its uncoupling in mammals, very little is known in birds. In zebra finches, picosecond optical tomography with a white laser and a streak camera can measure in vivo oxyhemoglobin (HbO2) and deoxyhemoglobin (Hb) concentration changes following physiologic stimulation (familiar calls and songs). Picosecond optical tomography showed sufficient submicromolar sensitivity to resolve the fast changes in the hippocampus and auditory forebrain areas with 250 μm resolution. The time course is composed of (1) an early 2-second-long event with a significant decrease in Hb and HbO2 levels of −0.7 and −0.9 μmol/L, respectively, (2) a subsequent increase in blood oxygen availability with a plateau of HbO2 (+ 0.3 μmol/L), and (3) pronounced vasodilatation events immediately after the end of the stimulus. One of the findings of our study is the direct link between blood oxygen level-dependent signals previously published in birds and our results. Furthermore, the early vasoconstriction event and poststimulus ringing seem to be more pronounced in birds than in mammals. These results in birds, tachymetabolic vertebrates with a long lifespan, can potentially yield new insights, e.g., into brain aging.
Gas phase bond dissociation enthalpies and enthalpies of isomerization/reaction for small hydrocarbon combustion related compounds between 300 and 1500 K: A comparison of Gaussian-4 (G4) theoretical values against experimental data
Authors: Rayne Sierra , Forest Kaya
Published: October 2010

Gas phase calculations at 1 atmosphere pressure between 300 and 1500 K at 200 K intervals were conducted using the Gaussian-4 (G4) composite method level of theory on a representative set of reactions having broad relevance in hydrocarbon combustion chemistry. Reasonable agreement between the experimental and theoretical data was obtained across the temperature range under consideration for all bond dissociation enthalpies, isomerization enthalpies, and enthalpies of reaction. For some reaction schemes, chemical accuracy for the theoretical method was maintained over the complete temperature range, whereas other systems displayed up to several kcal mol^-1^ deviations from experimental data. The direction of signed errors generally increased as the temperature was raised, and no general error trends were related to molecular size or reaction class.
Reactome: A database of biological pathways
Authors: Croft David
Published: October 2010

REACTOME is an open-source, open access, manually curated, peer-reviewed and highly reliable pathway database. A new website is currently in preparation, which includes tools for visualising pathway diagrams and analyzing user-supplied data in a pathway context. Reactome provides facilities for exporting its content in BioPax and SBML formats.
Omics Data Sharing - BioSharing: on Data Policies’s Plans and Reporting Standards
Authors: Sansone Susanna-Assunta
Published: October 2010

Several data preservation, management and sharing policies have emerged in response to increased funding for high-throughput approaches in major genomics and functional genomics bioscience domain; and nowadays, several funding agencies also require inclusion of data-sharing plans in grant applications. But despite some commonalities, the policies are heterogeneous by nature, given the different types of communities served and the data types they generate. In parallel, an escalating number of community-driven standardization efforts (including biocurators, database developers and experimentalists, vendors etc), operate to develop minimal requirements checklists, ontologies, and file-formats to support the harmonization of the reporting process, so that different experiments and data can be easily shared, compared, and integrated. The proliferation of these standardization efforts is a positive sign of community engagement, but it also brings with it new sociological and technological challenges - creating interoperability and avoiding unnecessary overlaps and duplication of efforts that hampers their wider uptake. Let aside the ethical, commercialization, credit and other known issues arising from public data release, basic communication channels still need to be formally created and maintained, especially between the funders and the standardization efforts to enable flow of information and mutual support. For example, funding agencies should keep abreast of challenges the standardization efforts face so that they can provide targeted funds to sustain their development and maintenance; when standards-compliant systems become available these should be channeled to the appropriate funding agencies that in turn can recommend them in the data sharing policy. Hence the creation of the BioSharing forum on data policies’s plans and reporting standards, stemming from an initial collaboration with a range of representatives from US, UK and European funding agencies (Field D., Sansone SA, et al. (2009), Science, 9, 234-236; "www.biosharing.org":http://www.biosharing.org, "www.isa-tools.org":http://www.isa-tools.org); our dialogue will continue to formalize linkages between funders, implementing data sharing policies, and well-constituted standardization efforts in the biosciences domain and in close collaboration with the Biocuration Society.
Gene Curation Software at the Rat Genome Database (RGD)
Authors: Wang Shur-Jen , Kowalski George , Smith Jennifer , Dwinell Melinda , Nigam Rajni , Munzenmaier Diane , De Pons Jeff , Jacob Howard , Laulederkind Stanley , Shimoyama Mary , Taylor Brad , Petri Victoria , Lowry Timothy , Liu Weisong , Hayman G. Thomas
Published: October 2010

At model organism databases data is curated for numerous biological categories using various ontologies and vocabularies. The Rat Genome Database (RGD) uses four different ontologies to standardize annotation information for genes and their associations with disease, phenotypes, and pathways. For manual gene curation this is all done in a single user interface of a web-based annotation tool developed at RGD. The same interface can be used for the curation of QTLs and strains. The development of the tool has been achieved through a collaboration of curators and software developers. Features have been tailored to the needs of the curators to allow optimum efficiency of the data entry portion of the curation process. Annotations using the Gene Ontology, Mammalian Phenotype Ontology, Pathway Ontology, and Disease Ontology can be done simultaneously in the same user interface. The search function of the tool has multiple options, giving the curators the opportunity to specify the search according to the immediate need. For ontology terms, gene, QTL, and strain objects the tool searches RGD data tables. For references the tool searches both internal and PubMed reference IDs. If an abstract reference is not already found at RGD, the tool automatically downloads the reference and assigns an RGD ID to it. Data objects, ontology terms, and references can be stored in multiples, providing various options for composing annotations. An editing step allows the composed annotation line to be altered before entering it in the database. The tool displays all current annotations for any gene that is selected. A second editing function is available by hyperlink for any pre-existing annotation displayed in the tool. The curation software has more than doubled literature curation production since replacing spreadsheet curation.
Regulation of unfolded protein response modulator XBP1s by acetylation and deacetylation
Authors: Wang Feng-Ming , Chen Yi-Jiun , Ouyang Hong-Jiao
Published: October 2010

XBP1 (X-box-binding protein 1) is a key modulator of the UPR (unfolded protein response), which is involved in a wide range of pathological and physiological processes. The mRNA encoding the active spliced form of XBP1 (XBP1s) is generated from the unspliced form by IRE1 (inositol-requiring enzyme 1) during the UPR. However, the post-translational modulation of XBP1s remains largely unknown. In the present study, we demonstrate that XBP1s is a target of acetylation and deacetylation mediated by p300 and SIRT1 (sirtuin 1) respectively. p300 increases the acetylation and protein stability of XBP1s, and enhances its transcriptional activity, whereas SIRT1 deacetylates XBP1s and inhibits its transcriptional activity. Deficiency of SIRT1 enhances XBP1s-mediated luciferase reporter activity in HEK (human embryonic kidney)-293 cells and the up-regulation of XBP1s target gene expression under ER (endoplasmic reticulum) stress in MEFs (mouse embryonic fibroblasts). Consistent with XBP1s favouring cell survival under ER stress, Sirt1−/− MEFs display a greater resistance to ER-stress-induced apoptotic cell death compared with Sirt1+/+ MEFs. Taken together, these results suggest that acetylation/deacetylation constitutes an important post-translational mechanism in controlling protein levels, as well as the transcriptional activity, of XBP1s. The present study provides a novel insight into the molecular mechanisms by which SIRT1 regulates UPR signalling.
Vitiligo, reactive oxygen species and T-cells
Authors: Glassman Steven J.
Published: October 2010

The acquired depigmenting disorder of vitiligo affects an estimated 1% of the world population and constitutes one of the commonest dermatoses. Although essentially asymptomatic, the psychosocial impact of vitiligo can be severe. The cause of vitiligo remains enigmatic, hampering efforts at successful therapy. The underlying pathogenesis of the pigment loss has, however, been clarified to some extent in recent years, offering the prospect of effective treatment, accurate prognosis and rational preventative strategies. Vitiligo occurs when functioning melanocytes disappear from the epidermis. A single dominant pathway is unlikely to account for all cases of melanocyte loss in vitiligo; rather, it is the result of complex interactions of biochemical, environmental and immunological events, in a permissive genetic milieu. ROS (reactive oxygen species) and H2O2 in excess can damage biological processes, and this situation has been documented in active vitiligo skin. Tyrosinase activity is impaired by excess H2O2 through oxidation of methionine residues in this key melanogenic enzyme. Mechanisms for repairing this oxidant damage are also damaged by H2O2, compounding the effect. Numerous proteins and peptides, in addition to tyrosinase, are similarly affected. It is possible that oxidant stress is the principal cause of vitiligo. However, there is also ample evidence of immunological phenomena in vitiligo, particularly in established chronic and progressive disease. Both innate and adaptive arms of the immune system are involved, with a dominant role for T-cells. Sensitized CD8+ T-cells are targeted to melanocyte differentiation antigens and destroy melanocytes either as the primary event in vitiligo or as a secondary promotive consequence. There is speculation on the interplay, if any, between ROS and the immune system in the pathogenesis of vitiligo. The present review focuses on the scientific evidence linking alterations in ROS and/or T-cells to vitiligo.
Chinese herbal extracts (SK0506) as a potential candidate for the therapy of the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Tan Yi , Kamal Mohammad A. , Wang Zheng-Zhong , Xiao Wei , Seale John P. , Qu Xianqin
Published: October 2010

The metabolic syndrome has reached epidemic proportions worldwide, but currently there is a lack of effective therapies for this multifactorial endocrine disease. TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) has been utilized to treat a wide variety of diseases for centuries in the People's Republic of China, subsequently becoming a promising source for the development of new therapeutic agents. Chinese medicinal herbs Gynostemma pentaphyllum, Coptis chinensis and Salvia miltiorrhiza have been shown to have anti-atherosclerotic and antidiabetic properties. In this study, we have investigated the metabolic effects of a mixture of these three herbal extracts (SK0506) in a rodent model of the metabolic syndrome induced by an HFD (high-fat diet). SD (Sprague–Dawley) rats that were fed on an HFD for 4 weeks gained 33% more weight compared with chow-fed rats (P<0.05). Four weeks treatment with SK0506 prevented weight gain with decreased visceral fat (P<0.01 compared with vehicle treatment). SK0506 also significantly reduced plasma triacylglycerols (triglycerides), NEFAs (non-esterified fatty acids) and cholesterol. SK0506 exerted similar effects to RSG (rosiglitazone) on impaired glucose intolerance. SK0506 also significantly enhanced glucose uptake and glycogen synthesis in adipose tissue during hyperinsulinaemic–euglycaemic clamp. Western blotting analysis revealed that SK0506 enhanced GLUT4 (glucose transporter 4) expression in adipose tissue, and RSG markedly up-regulated GLUT4 translocation in skeletal muscle. Overall, the present study has discovered that SK0506 can reverse several components of the metabolic syndrome primarily through acting on hyperlipidaemia and visceral obesity. The results from the present study suggest that it is worthwhile to conduct a randomized clinical trial to confirm the potential that SK0506 may be a new oral agent for treating the metabolic syndrome and preventing Type 2 diabetes.
Sensitization to sunflower pollen and lung functions in sunflower processing workers
Authors: Atis S. , Tutluoglu B. , Sahin K. , Yaman M. , Küçükusta A.R. , Oktay I.
Published: October 2010

Background: This study aimed to investigate whether exposure to sunflower pollen (Helianthus annuus) increases both sensitization and respiratory symptoms, and whether or not it affects lung functions in sunflower processing workers.

Methods: The largest sunflower processing factories in the Thrace region of Turkey participated in this study. Workers from the units directly exposed to sunflower seed enrolled as the study group (n = 102) and workers who were not directly exposed to Helianthus annuus pollen (n = 102) were the control group. Detailed questionnaires covering respiratory and allergic symptoms were completed, and skin prick tests and lung function tests were performed.

Results: We found a very high rate (23.5%) of sensitization to Helianthus annuus in the study group compared to the controls (P < 0.001). Logistic regression analysis showed that the risk of sensitization to H. annuus was increased 4.7‐fold (odds ratio = 4.17, 95% confidence interval = 1.3–16.7) if subjects were exposed to sunflower pollen in the workplace. While asthmatic symptoms and allergic skin diseases were not different between the two groups, workers in the study group had a higher rate of allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis (P < 0.05). We found that pulmonary function was significantly impaired in the study group (P < 0.01). Using a multivariate analysis model, inclusion in the study group was found to be a predictive factor for impairment of lung function (P = 0.002).

Conclusions: We conclude that sunflower pollen has high allergenic potential, especially when there is close contact, and exposure to sunflower pollen in the workplace can result in impairment in lung function.
Low‐dose local nasal immunotherapy in children with perennial allergic rhinitis due to Dermatophagoides
Authors: Marcucci F. , Sensi L.G. , Caffarelli C. , Cavagni G. , Bernardini R. , Tiri A. , Riva G. , Novembre E.
Published: October 2010

Background:Allergen specific immunotherapy was known to be useful in the treatment of respiratory allergic disease. Local nasal immunotherapy (LNIT) offers advantages such as a good efficacy/safety ratio and a more convenient allergen delivery. The aim of this study was to assess the safety and clinical efficacy of a modified scheduling of LNIT in 32 children with allergic rhinitis due to Dermatophagoides.

Methods:A multicentre, randomized, double‐blind placebo controlled study carried out for two years, with a modified schedule of LNIT treatment: a build‐up phase at increasing dosages from 2.5 AU to 80 AU and a maintenance period at low dosage (80 AU) once a week. Symptom and medication scores, threshold dose with specific nasal provocation test (NPT) and immunological parameters (IgE and IgG4) were evaluated.

Results:No important local or systemic side‐effects were observed in children who completed the study. Compared to placebo, the active treatment group showed significant improvement in rhinitis symptoms and a reduction of drug consumption after 18 months of LNIT. These results were confirmed by a significant reduction of allergen specific nasal reactivity. Serum and nasal specific IgE and IgG4 did not show any difference in the two groups.

Conclusions:The safety and clinical efficacy of low‐dose LNIT suggests that this therapy may be useful in the treatment of allergic rhinitis disease in children.
A method for applying matrix corrections to X‐ray intensity maps using the Bence–Albee algorithm and Matlab
Authors: Clarke G. L. , Daczko N. R. , Nockolds C.
Published: October 2010

Matlab scripts that apply the Bence & Albee (1968) matrix correction algorithm to X‐ray intensity data collected as element maps on a Cameca SX‐50 microprobe are used to produce two‐dimensional maps of oxide weight percent and cation proportions for SiO2, Al2O3, FeO, MnO, MgO, CaO, Na2O and K2O. Once generated, large data sets of mapped oxide weight percent values or cation numbers that retain spatial information can be used petrologically. The technique is used to evaluate the compositional range of barroisitic amphibole in an eclogite from New Caledonia, to examine aspects of equilibration during the partial hydration of the eclogite facies mineral assemblage.
Polyvalent contact allergy to corticosteroids: A report of two cases
Authors: Semrádová V , Dastychová E
Published: October 2010

Two cases of positive allergic reactions to eight patch‐tested corticosteroid substances are reported. The patients were middle‐aged women with a long history of contact dermatitis who had used topical corticosteroids for years. Pure corticosteroid substances were tested in therapeutic and 1% concentrations in ethanol and petrolatum. The intensity of reactions was different depending on the vehicle and concentration. Patients with hypersensitivity to several corticosteroid substances represent an important therapeutic problem.
The circadian and homeostatic modulation of sleep pressure during wakefulness differs between morning and evening chronotypes
Authors: Taillard Jacques , Philip Pierre , Coste Olivier , Sagaspe Patricia , Bioulac Bernard
Published: October 2010

The purpose of this study was to evaluate homeostatic and circadian sleep process in ‘larks’ and ‘owls’ under daily life conditions. Core body temperature, subjective sleepiness and waking electroencephalogram (EEG) theta–alpha activity (6.25–9 Hz) were assessed in 18 healthy men (nine morning and nine evening chronotypes, 21.4 ± 1.9 years) during a 36‐h constant routine that followed a week of a normal ‘working’ sleep–wake schedule (bedtime: 23.30 h, wake time: 07.30 h). The phase of the circadian rhythm of temperature and sleepiness occurred respectively, 1.5 h (P = 0.01) and 2 h (P = 0.009) later in evening‐ than in morning‐type subjects. Only morning‐type subjects showed a bimodal rhythm of sleep–wake propensity. The buildup of subjective sleepiness, as quantified by linear regression, was slower in evening than in morning types (P = 0.04). The time course of EEG theta–alpha activity of both chronotypes could be closely fitted by an exponential curve. The time constant of evening types was longer than that of morning types (P = 0.03), indicating a slower increase in sleep pressure during extended wakefulness. These results suggest that both the circadian signal and the kinetics of sleep pressure buildup differ between the two chronotypes even under prior naturalistic conditions mimicking the usual working day.
Sleep microstructure around sleep onset differentiates major depressive insomnia from primary insomnia
Authors: Staner Luc , Cornette Françoise , Maurice Damien , Viardot Geoffrey , Bon Olivier Le , Haba José , Staner Corinne , Luthringer Rémy , Muzet Alain , Macher Jean‐Paul
Published: October 2010

In the present study we investigate whether alterations of sleep propensity or of wake propensity are implicated in sleep initiation disturbances encountered in major depressive insomnia and in primary insomnia. For this purpose, the time course of electroencephalogram (EEG) power density during the period preceding sleep onset and during the first non‐rapid eye movement (REM) period was examined in three age and gender matched groups of 10 women and 11 men (healthy controls, primary insomniacs and depressive insomniacs). In contrast to healthy controls and depressive insomniacs, patients with primary insomnia did not experience a gradual decrease of their alpha and beta1 power during the sleep onset period and had a lower delta activity in the 5 min preceding sleep onset. Compared with the two other groups, depressive patients exhibit less dynamic changes in slow wave activity during the first non‐REM period. The present results suggest that hyperarousal (high ‘Process W’) may mainly be implicated in the sleep initiation difficulties of primary insomniacs whereas the homeostatic sleep regulation process seems to be partially maintained. In our major depressed patients, the sleep initiation disturbances appeared to relate to a lower sleep pressure (low ‘Process S’) rather than to hyperarousal. This study supports the idea that different mechanisms are implicated in sleep disturbances experienced by primary insomniacs and major depressive insomniacs.
CSF hypocretin measures in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Kanbayashi T. , Inoue Y. , Kawanishi K. , Takasaki H. , Aizawa R. , Takahashi K. , Ogawa Y. , Abe M. , Hishikawa Y. , Shimizu T.
Published: October 2010

The majority of patients with narcolepsy‐cataplexy were reported to have very low cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) hypocretin‐1 (orexin‐A) levels. The hypocretin‐1 levels of secondary excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS) disorders are not known. In this study, we found that CSF hypocretin levels in the patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome were within the control range. The low hypocretin levels seem to reflect only the presence of cataplexy and DR2 positive in narcoleptics but not EDS itself.
Immunogenicity and safety of two schedules of Hepatitis B vaccination during pregnancy
Authors: Gupta Indu , Ratho Radha K.
Published: October 2010

Aim:  To test the immunogenicity and safety of Hepatitis B (HB) vaccination during pregnancy and passive transfer of antibodies to the newborn.

Methods:  Ninety‐nine HBsAg‐negative pregnant women were divided randomly in two groups; group I was given two, and group II was given three doses of recombinant Hepatitis B vaccine and followed up until 4 months after delivery.

Results:  The vaccination was safe. The maternal anti‐HB antibody levels at delivery were significantly higher in three dose schedule as compared to two dose schedule. Similarly, the antibody levels in the newborns were higher in the three dose schedule. The maternal antibody levels were higher at 2 and 4 months post‐delivery in group II but were observed to be declining in the newborns.

Conclusion:  Hepatitis B vaccination during pregnancy is safe and highly immunogenic, and there is passive transfer of antibodies to the newborns.
First‐time mothers – identifying their needs, perceptions and experiences
Authors: Cronin Camille
Published: October 2010

• The aim of this research was to identify needs, perceptions and experiences of first‐time mothers in the postnatal period.

• Data were collected through focus groups and in‐depth interviews from a sample of 13 women, 61% were aged 20 years or less, from an urban city area in Southern Ireland. Through content analysis, key themes were identified relating to birth and hospitalization, support, motherhood and psychological issues.

• Attendance at antenatal classes was variable and perceptions of being unprepared for birth and motherhood prevailed. Participants appeared shocked at the amount of pain experienced during birth and had little rest during hospitalization. They received physical and emotional support and preparation for childcare from midwives. Breastfeeding, while promoted, by midwives was not acceptable.

• The ‘maternal mother’ was key in providing direct childcare, advice and emotional help, support for attendance at school and ‘time out’ to socialize. Support was reciprocal if the maternal mother had young children.

• Professional support by public health nurses was well‐established. However, emphasis was perceived to be on ‘baby's development'.

• Maternal depression, loneliness, living in homes with limited space and difficulty in ‘letting go’ of baby care to return to school or work were reported.

• Implications for antenatal preparation, national policies, motherhood, and the need for further research are discussed.
Nursing roles and levels of practice: a framework for differentiating between elementary, specialist and advancing nursing practice
Authors: Daly William M. , Carnwell Ros
Published: October 2010

• The recent profusion of new nursing roles in the UK has led to much confusion in the minds of health care consumers, employers, nursing practitioners and educationalists regarding the meaning, scope of practice, preparation for, and expectations of such roles.

• Titles such as Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS), Nurse Practitioner (NP), Advanced Nurse Practitioner (ANP), Higher Level Practitioner (HLP) and more recently Nurse Consultant (NC) are being adopted in a variety of care settings with little understanding or consensus as to the nature of or differences between such roles.

• Further, the formerUnited Kingdom Central Council for Nursing, Midwifery and Health Visiting (1992)initiative for extending the scope of professional practice allows for the prospect that nurses can adopt additional clinical tasks or alter the nature of service provision provided that they acquire the appropriate education or training, levels of competence and are prepared to be accountable for their new practices.

• Consequently, nursing practice is becoming more diverse than ever before and the boundaries of inter‐ and intraprofessional practices are becoming increasingly blurred.

• TheUKCC (1999a)has recently contributed to an understanding of the levels of clinical practice undertaken at the specialist level but the situation at advanced or consultant levels remains unclear.
Team supervision in multiprofessional teams: team members' descriptions of the effects as highlighted by group interviews
Authors: Hyrkäs Kristiina , Appelqvist‐Schmidlechner Kaija
Published: October 2010

• The aim of the study was to describe the effects of team supervision in multiprofessional teams as perceived by team members.

• The literature describes team supervision as a way to develop collaboration in multiprofessional teams. However, little empirical research into the effects of team supervision is available.

• A research project was undertaken on five units of a university hospital between 1995 and 1998. Data were collected using group interviews with 62 interviewees and were analysed using qualitative content analysis.

• Team members' perceptions of the feeling of togetherness varied. Communication had become more open in the teams, but the frankness of expression varied: communication had generally become more tactful, whereas in one of the teams frankness offended some members. Team members had learned to know each other. This had improved mutual understanding, but also increased tension.

• Teams' working methods had changed. Joint decision making had developed, but conflicts had also emerged. Motivation for work had improved as a result of the awareness of shared problems. However, motivation had been lessened by frustration caused by slow progress in the team.

• Perceptions of the effects of team supervision in the multiprofessional teams varied by units and teams. The study showed that team supervision is a challenge to supervisors.
The characteristics, qualities and skills of practice developers
Authors: Mccormack Brendan , Garbett Robert
Published: October 2010

• There is a growing interest in practice development as a systematic process for the development of quality patient care.

• Whilst there is a range of accounts of practice development in the literature, little work has been undertaken to develop an understanding of the systems and processes involved and there is even less on the roles involved in practice development.

• This paper explores in particular the characteristics, qualities and skills of practice developers, i.e. professionals who have formal responsibility for developing practice in organizations.

• The paper represents part of a larger study exploring the conceptual basis of the term ‘practice development’.

• Data for this part of the project were collected through literature analysis, seven focus groups involving 60 practice developers and telephone interviews with 25 practising nurses with experience of working with practice developers. The data were analysed using cognitive mapping processes.

• Four role functions are presented in the paper, as well as qualities and skills needed to operationalize the identified role functions.

• A clear picture of the skills and qualities required by practice developers emerges from the data.
Development and evaluation of intermediate care
Authors: Roe Brenda , Daly Sue , Shenton Gary , Lochhead Yvonne
Published: October 2010

• Intermediate care is being developed as part of the national strategy for older people in England and Wales to prevent their admission to hospital and facilitate early discharge.

• Evaluation of intermediate care is implicit within current policy directives.

• This project evaluated the client information across a number of intermediate care schemes within one National Health Service community trust for 3 months and disseminated the results to staff as part of a reflective workshop which also provided an opportunity for additional data collection.

• Rates of referral and acceptance on intermediate care were high for all the schemes except one, indicating reliable referral and inclusion criteria.

• Older people were the recipients of intermediate care with nearly half of them having experienced falls.

• A number of developments were identified by staff covering both current services and long‐term strategy for intermediate care and indicating the importance of involving providers in the evaluation and development of services.

• Fall prevention initiatives and involvement of users and carers in the evaluation and development of intermediate care were also identified.
Sensory stimulation programme to improve recovery in comatose patients
Authors: Oh Hyunsoo , Seo Whasook
Published: October 2010

• The purpose of this study was to examine whether positive changes in consciousness level after applying a sensory stimulation programme exceed natural recovery.

• A single experimental group interrupted time series design was used.

• Subjects were brain‐injured patients who were hospitalized at a university hospital in South Korea.

• The sensory stimulation programme was composed of auditory, visual, olfactory, gustatory, tactile and physical stimulation. Levels of consciousness were evaluated using the Glasgow Coma Scale.

• The intervention was carried out twice, first for 4 weeks, then a recession period was allowed for 4 weeks, and immediately after this the second intervention was implemented for 4 weeks.

• Results showed significant alterations in consciousness levels 2 weeks after starting intervention 1. This effect increased gradually and was maintained for 3–4 weeks. However, consciousness levels began to decrease 2 weeks after terminating intervention 1 and this decrement continued until starting intervention 2. The pattern of improvement of intervention 1 could be represented as a gradual onset and temporary duration model.

• At the beginning of intervention 2, consciousness levels were maintained at a low level. However, they began to increase again after 2 weeks and this increment continued even after terminating intervention 2. Therefore, the effect of intervention 2 could be represented as a gradual onset and permanent duration model.

• These results suggest that an intervention programme should be applied for more than 1 month to achieve a permanent effect on consciousness levels and that at least 2 weeks are required for any significant effect.
‘Pod shatter’ in Arabidopsis thalianaBrassica napus and B. juncea
Authors: SPENCE J. , VERCHER Y. , GATES P. , HARRIS N.
Published: October 2010

Wild Brassica plants release seeds by a pod shattering mechanism; in related crop plants, such as oil‐seed rape, this can result in substantial loss of seed, and hence loss of revenue, and also in the distribution of seeds which can contaminate future crops and the environment. To identify strategies which may be used to reduce shatter, either by conventional breeding programmes or by genetic engineering, we have examined fruit development in oil‐seed rape (Brassica napus), and in the related B. juncea and Arabidopsis, using a combination of cytological, cytochemical and molecular techniques. We report here on the patterns of cellular differentiation and tissue development during fruit maturation, and suggest how this results in the shattering phenotype.
Characterization and fabrication of fully metal‐coated scanning near‐field optical microscopy SiO2 tips
Authors: Aeschimann L. , Akiyama T. , Staufer U. , De Rooij N. F. , Thiery L. , Eckert R. , Heinzelmann H.
Published: October 2010

The fabrication of silicon cantilever‐based scanning near‐field optical microscope probes with fully aluminium‐coated quartz tips was optimized to increase production yield. Different cantilever designs for dynamic‐ and contact‐mode force feedback were implemented. Light transmission through the tips was investigated experimentally in terms of the metal coating and the tip cone‐angle. We found that transmittance varies with the skin depth of the metal coating and is inverse to the cone angle, meaning that slender tips showed higher transmission. Near‐field optical images of individual fluorescing molecules showed a resolution < 100 nm. Scanning electron microscopy images of tips before and after scanning near‐field optical microscope imaging, and transmission electron microscopy analysis of tips before and after illumination, together with measurements performed with a miniaturized thermocouple showed no evidence of mechanical defect or orifice formation by thermal effects.
Near‐field imaging of ultrathin magnetic films with in‐plane magnetization
Authors: Dickson W. , Takahashi S. , Pollard R. , Atkinson R. , Zayats A. V.
Published: October 2010

A new approach to near‐field magneto‐optical imaging was developed capable of visualization of in‐plane magnetization of ultrathin magnetic structures. The approach relies on the magneto‐optical effect specific for thin magnetic layers and employs near‐field transmission measurements of longitudinal and/or transverse magneto‐optical effect arising from the presence of thin film interfaces. The near‐field magneto‐optical contrast of in‐plane domain structure of ultrathin Co film has been demonstrated in different polarization configurations.
Two‐photon excitation of excitons in CuCl in total reflection geometry
Authors: Hasuo M. , Shimamoto A. , Fujimoto T.
Published: October 2010

We have observed emission spectra of a CuCl film on a TiO2 prism surface(110) associated with the two‐photon excitation of the exciton system in total reflection geometry. The I1 bound exciton emission, which resonantly appeared at the two‐photon excitation of the Z3‐longitudinal excitons and Z1,2‐exciton band, was observed. The dependence of the emission intensities on the polarization of the excitation light was explained from the field intensity and the penetration depth of the evanescent light in CuCl accompanying the totally reflected light at the TiO2/CuCl interface.
Single‐molecule near‐field optical energy transfer microscopy with dielectric tips
Authors: Trabesinger W. , Kramer A. , Kreiter M. , Hecht B. , Wild U. P.
Published: October 2010

The fluorescence lifetime and the fluorescence rate of single molecules are recorded as a function of the position of a Si3N4 atomic force microscopy tip with respect to the molecule. We observe a decrease of the excited state lifetime and the fluorescence rate when the tip apex is in close proximity to the molecule. These effects are attributed to the fact that the dielectric tip converts non‐propagating near‐fields to propagating fields within the dielectric tip effectively quenching the fluorescence. The spatial extension of the quenching area is of subwavelength dimensions. The results are discussed in terms of molecular fluorescence in a system of stratified media. The experiment provides surprising new insights into the interactions between a fluorescent molecule and a dielectric tip. The methodology holds promise for applications in ultra high‐resolution near‐field optical imaging at the level of single fluorophores.
Photonic nanopatterns of gold nanostructures indicate the excitation of surface plasmon modes of a wavelength of 50–100 nm by scanning near‐field optical microscopy
Authors: Maas H.‐J. , Heimel J. , Fuchs H. , Fischer U. C. , Weeber J. C. , Dereux A.
Published: October 2010

Scanning near‐field optical microscopy images of metal nanostructures taken with the tetrahedral tip (T‐tip) show a distribution of dark and bright spots at distances in the order of 25–50 nm. The images are interpreted as photonic nanopatterns defined as calculated scanning near‐field optical microscopy images using a dipole serving as a light‐emitting scanning near‐field optical microscopy probe. Changing from a positive to a negative value of the dielectric function of a sample leads to the partition of one spot into several spots in the photonic nanopatterns, indicating the excitation of surface plasmons of a wavelength in the order of 50–100 nm in metal nanostructures.
Determining dislocation cell sizes for high‐strain deformation microstructures using the EBSP technique
Authors: Cao W. Q. , Godfrey A. , Liu Q.
Published: October 2010

The effect of several data collection and processing choices has been examined for high‐resolution electron back‐scatter pattern (EBSP) investigation of a highly deformed sample. The results were compared with a transmission electron microscope (TEM) investigation of the same sample. The estimated dislocation cell size was examined as a function of data cleaning strategy, line intercept vs. reconstruction method, critical misorientation angle definition and step‐size. The best agreement with the TEM results was obtained using a modified relative reconstruction algorithm on fine step‐size maps allowing some of the noise in the data to be overcome. Step sizes of up to one‐quarter the average cell size yielded similar values for the estimated average cell size. As a result of the mixture of both high‐ and low‐angle boundaries, single diffraction condition TEM images may give larger cell size estimates than the EBSP data. Orientation noise in the EBSP data, however, still limits the extent to which quantitative information can be extracted.
Users’ attitudes towards home and hospital treatment: a comparative study between South Asian and white residents of the British Isles
Authors: KHAN I. , PILLAY K.
Published: October 2010

This study examines attitudes, of adult users of mental health services, towards hospital and home treatment in a crisis or emergency. A comparison was made between South Asian clients (n = 35) and white residents of the British Isles (n = 26) with a diagnosis of schizophrenia as defined by the International Classification of Diseases (ICD 10). The aim was to broaden the knowledge base of the psychiatric service providers in an under‐researched area. Data were collected using a structured 15‐item questionnaire, measured on a five‐point Likert scale. Although both groups of respondents expressed preference for home treatment, the reasons stated differed. There were statistical differences (P = 0.05) in five of the 15 items, including diet, stigma, treatment concordance, religious practices and faith healing, which form the bulk of the discussion. Greater client satisfaction is conditional upon a quality of care responsive to individual needs. These needs may vary according to ethnicity, religious beliefs, diet, language and family life, among other factors. As the cultural constitution of Britain continues to alter, it is increasingly important that healthcare professionals are sensitive, knowledgeable and skilled in caring for such a culturally diverse population. In turn, this may avoid stereotyping or mislabelling.
Addressing hopelessness in people with suicidal ideation: building upon the therapeutic relationship utilizing a cognitive behavioural approach
Authors: COLLINS S. , CUTCLIFFE J. R.
Published: October 2010

This article reports on how the therapeutic relationship can be enhanced by utilizing a cognitive behavioural approach when dealing with hopelessness in suicidal people. A rationale is presented regarding why this topic is deemed important. Following a brief overview of the concept of hope, the theoretical and empirical literature relating to hopelessness are examined. This literature indicates that, given the inextricable link between suicide and a sense of pervasive hopelessness, it is necessary for the practitioner to understand the methods and theoretical underpinnings of hope inspiration. Two case studies, drawn from clinical practice, are described in order to elucidate the key elements/interventions (which include the therapeutic relationship and specific cognitive behavioural techniques that the nurse therapist may utilize when attempting to ameliorate the client's sense of hopelessness). These key elements/interventions are further elaborated upon. Whilst cognitive behavioural techniques are shown to be beneficial when dealing with hopelessness, it is advocated that the therapeutic relationship is a prerequisite for successful therapy.
Event‐related potentials to tones in the absence and presence of sleep spindles
Authors: ELTON MARTIN , WINTER OSCAR , HESLENFELD DIRK , LOEWY DEREK , CAMPBELL KENNETH , KOK ALBERT
Published: October 2010

The present study focused on event‐related potentials to tones in the presence and absence of sleep spindles. Six undergraduates were studied throughout an experimental night, following an adaptation session. The event‐related potentials to tone stimuli were averaged for each subject. Separate averages were determined for trials on which no sleep spindle occurred 2 s before or after a tone and trials in which spindle activity was present. Both voltage distribution maps and multivariate analysis of the waveforms produced significant differences between these conditions, which could be seen as a higher initial positive component and sustained positivity over the averaged epoch in the presence of spindles. Spectral analysis indicated that this result could not solely be ascribed to residual sigma activity in the spindle‐present average. The results may provide insights into the functional role of sleep spindles in humans in addition to that suggested by a neurophysiological model of inhibition.
Suppression of sleepiness and melatonin by bright light exposure during breaks in night work
Authors: Lowden Arne , Åkerstedt Torbjörn , Wibom Roger
Published: October 2010

Night work is non‐optimal for performance and recuperation because of a lack of circadian influence that fully promote a night orientation. Our study assessed, in an industrial setting, the effects of bright light exposure (BL) on sleepiness, sleep and melatonin, during night work and during the following readaptation to day work. In a crossover design, 18 workers at a truck production plant were exposed to either BL (2500 lx) during breaks or normal light during four consecutive weeks. Twenty minute breaks were initiated by 67% of the workers between 03:00 and 04:00 hours. Sleep/wake patterns were assessed through actigraphs and ratings were given in a sleep/wake diary. Saliva melatonin was measured at 2‐h intervals before, during and after night shift weeks. A significant interaction demonstrated a reduction of sleepiness in the BL condition particularly on the first two nights at 04:00 and 06:00 hours. Day sleep in the BL condition was significantly lengthened. Bright light administration significantly suppressed melatonin levels during night work and most strongly at 02:00 hours. Daytime melatonin during the readaptation after night work remained unaffected. The present findings demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of photic stimulation in industrial settings to increase adaptation to night work.