bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of plant barriers and citrus leaf age on dispersal of Diaphorina citri (Hemiptera: Liviidae)
Authors: Tomaseto A. F. , Krugner R. , Lopes J. R. S.
Published: June 2015

Studies designed to measure dispersal capacity of Diaphorina citri Kuwayama (Hemiptera: Liviidae) are needed to provide the epidemiological knowledge necessary to improve management of citrus huanglongbing. In this study, a mark–release–recapture technique was used to investigate whether 1) host or non‐host plants of D. citri can act as barriers for dispersing insects and 2) presence or absence of young citrus leaves influence movement of D. citri towards citrus plants. The experimental field consisted of four circular and adjacent areas containing citrus trees, Citrus sinensis (L.) Osbeck cv. ‘Hamlin’, planted in concentric circles at 18, 24 and 30 m from the release centre. Insect activity was monitored by recapturing at each distance using yellow stick traps. Dense plantings of tall non‐host plants of D. citri such as corn had no effect on insect dispersal towards citrus plants when compared to a shorter cover crop such as grass. In contrast, suitable host plants acted as traps decreasing movement of D. citri. Diaphorina citri dispersed at greater speeds in the absence of young leaves reaching 140 m within 6 hours after release, whereas in the presence of young leaves, individuals reached at most 60 m at 1 day after release. Results suggest that D. citri control measures may be more efficient during periods of highest vegetative activity when insects are less active. Moreover, the use of suitable host plants for D. citri as trap plants may be a potential tactic to prevent movement of insects into the crop.
Chemical Profile of the Carpino Broad Bean by Conventional and Innovative Physicochemical Analyses
Authors: Longobardi F. , Sacco D. , Casiello G. , Ventrella A. , Sacco A.
Published: June 2015

A detailed chemical characterization of a typical Apulian legume, the Carpino broad bean, was obtained. Crude proteins, moisture, phosphorus, ash and energy content were evaluated on starting seeds, half‐ripening beans and final products. Stable isotope ratios (15N/14N and 13C/12C), major (Ca, Mg, Na and K) and trace metals (Zn, Mo, Mn, Cu, Fe, Cr, Cd, Ni and Co) were also assessed. Moreover, information on a large number of metabolites was obtained by 1H high‐resolution magic‐angle spinning nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The data revealed that Carpino broad bean dry seeds supply adequate protein and energy content, 28.1% and 326 kcal, respectively, being also a good source of macro‐ and microelements. In particular, the iron content was 46.0 mg/kg: this potentially provides about 33% of the recommended daily allowance by a 100 g serving. Moreover, the analyzed samples seem to lack elements considered potentially harmful for health.

Practical Applications

The Carpino broad bean is a native faba bean cultivar, traditionally cultivated in small quantities in Gargano (Southern Italy). It is commonly considered a traditional food product with interesting nutritional properties. At present, the Carpino broad bean has still not received an official European label as typical product, but it is a Slow Food presidium, this remarks its considerable socio‐cultural, nutritional and environmental values. Even if restricted to a limited geographic area, this typical and appreciable cultivation should be protected from extinction, preserving territory identity and working techniques; therefore, it is essential to explore ways to prove the Carpino broad bean quality and peculiarities, starting from a physicochemical characterization, that has not been presented in detail until now, and that could be a considerable basis for an official valorization of this product, for instance, for the attainment of EU Protected Designation of Origin/Protected Geographical Indication (EU PDO/PGI) labels.
Surface water flood warnings in England: overview, assessment and recommendations based on survey responses and workshops
Authors: Ochoa‐Rodríguez S. , Wang L.‐P. , Thraves L. , Johnston A. , Onof C.
Published: June 2015

Following extensive surface water flooding (SWF) in England in summer 2007, progress has been made in improving the management and prediction of this type of flooding. A rainfall threshold‐based extreme rainfall alert (ERA) service was launched in 2009 and superseded in 2011 by the surface water flood risk assessment (SWFRA). Through survey responses from local authorities (LAs) and the outcome of workshops with a range of flood professionals, this paper examines the understanding, benefits, limitations and ways to improve the current SWF warning service. The current SWFRA alerts are perceived as useful by district and county LAs, although their understanding of them is limited. The majority of LAs take action upon receipt of SWFRA alerts, and their reactiveness to alerts appears to have increased over the years and as SWFRA superseded ERA. This is a positive development towards increased resilience to SWF. The main drawback of the current service is its broad spatial resolution. Alternatives for providing localised SWF forecast and warnings were analysed, and a two‐tier national‐local approach, with pre‐simulated scenario‐based local SWF forecasting and warning systems, was deemed most appropriate by flood professionals given current monetary, human and technological resources.
Incretin‐based therapies for the treatment of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Carbone Laura J , Angus Peter W , Yeomans Neville D
Published: June 2015

Background and Aim:

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a leading cause of chronic liver disease in Western societies. Despite its significance, there are no well‐proven pharmacological treatments. Two novel classes of potential pharmacotherapies are the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RA) and dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors (DPP‐4I), collectively known as incretin‐based therapies. These have several metabolic and anti‐inflammatory actions that may be of benefit in NAFLD. The aim of this meta‐analysis was to evaluate their efficacy via a structured retrieval and pooled analysis of relevant studies.

Methods:

Studies were sourced from electronic databases and meeting abstracts. Main inclusion criteria were original studies investigating treatment of adults with NAFLD using GLP‐1 RA/DPP‐4I. Key outcomes were a change in serum alanine transaminase (ALT), as a marker of liver inflammation, and improvement in disease status measured by imaging or histology.

Results:

Initial searching retrieved 1357 peer‐reviewed articles and abstracts. Four studies met all inclusion and exclusion criteria. There were a total of 136 participants with NAFLD and concomitant type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). Meta‐analysis (random‐effects model) revealed a significant decrease in serum ALT following treatment (mean reduction 14.1 IU/L, 95% confidence intervals [CI] 8.3–19.8, P < 0.0001). In two studies with imaging and tissue data, treatment was found to significantly reduce steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis.

Conclusion:

The significant decrease in a key biochemical marker of hepatic inflammation following treatment with incretin‐based therapies, as well as improvements in imaging and histology, suggests these agents may be effective options for managing NAFLD with comorbid T2DM.
Geographic distribution and characteristics of genotype A hepatitis B virus infection in acute and chronic hepatitis B patients in Japan
Authors: Ito Kiyoaki , Yotsuyanagi Hiroshi , Sugiyama Masaya , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Karino Yoshiyasu , Takikawa Yasuhiro , Saito Takafumi , Arase Yasuji , Imazeki Fumio , Kurosaki Masayuki , Umemura Takeji , Ichida Takafumi , Toyoda Hidenori , Yoneda Masashi , Tanaka Yasuhito , Mita Eiji , Yamamoto Kazuhide , Michitaka Kojiro , Maeshiro Tatsuji , Tanuma Junko , Korenaga Masaaki , Murata Kazumoto , Masaki Naohiko , Koike Kazuhiko , Mizokami Masashi ,   The Japanese AHB CHB Study Group
Published: June 2015

Background and Aims

The prevalence of sexually transmitted acute infections of the genotype A hepatitis B virus (HBV) has been increasing in Japan. Genotype A HBV is associated with an increased risk of HBV progression to chronic infection after acute hepatitis B (AHB) in adults. A nationwide survey was conducted to evaluate the geographic distribution, clinical, and virologic characteristics of genotype A AHB and chronic hepatitis B (CHB) in Japan.

Methods

Five hundred seventy AHB patients were recruited between 2005 and 2010, and 3682 CHB patients were recruited between 2010 and 2011. HBV genotypes were determined for 552 and 3619 AHB and CHB patients, respectively. Clinical characteristics were compared among different genotypes in AHB and CHB patients. Genomic characteristics of HBV genotype A were examined by molecular evolutionary analysis.

Results

Hepatitis B virus genotype A was the predominant genotype for AHB between 2005 and 2010. Phylogenetic analysis showed that all strains in the AHB patients with genotype A were classified into subtype Ae. Among CHB patients, the occurrence of genotype A was 4.1%, and genotype A was spreading in young adults. In genotype A CHB patients, early stage liver diseases were predominant, although liver diseases progressed to cirrhosis or hepatocellular carcinoma in some patients.

Conclusions

The distribution of HBV genotypes is quite different between AHB and CHB in Japanese patients. Genotype A infection is spreading in young adults of Japanese CHB patients. Sequences derived from Japanese AHB patients were identical to or closely resembled the sequences derived from other Japanese AHB patients.
Evidence for protracted prograde metamorphism followed by rapid exhumation of the Zermatt‐Saas Fee ophiolite
Authors: Skora S. , Mahlen N. J. , Johnson C. M. , Baumgartner L. P. , Lapen T. J. , Beard B. L. , Szilvagyi E. T.
Published: June 2015

Major and trace‐element zoning in garnet, in combination with Rb–Sr, Sm–Nd and Lu–Hf geochronology, provide evidence for a protracted garnet growth history for the Zermatt‐Saas Fee (ZSF) ophiolite, western Alps. Four new Lu–Hf ages from Pfulwe (c. 52–46 Ma) and one from Chamois (c. 52 Ma) are very similar to a previously published Lu–Hf age from Lago di Cignana. Overall, the similarity of geochronological and garnet zoning patterns suggests that these three localities had a similar prograde tectonic history, commensurate with their similar structural position near the top of the ZSF. Samples from the lower part of the ZSF at Saas Fee and St. Jacques, however, produced much younger Lu–Hf ages (c. 41–38 Ma). Neither differences in whole‐rock geochemistry, which might produce distinct garnet growth histories, nor rare‐earth‐element zoning in garnet, can account for the age differences in the two suites. This suggests a much later prograde history for the lower part of the ZSF, supporting the idea that it was subducted diachronously. Such a model is consistent with changes in subduction vectors based on plate tectonic reconstructions, where early oblique subduction, which produced long prograde garnet growth, changed to more orthogonal subduction, which corresponds to shorter prograde garnet growth. Six new Rb–Sr phengite ages range from c. 42 to 39 Ma and, in combination with previously published Rb–Sr ages, constrain the timing of the transition from eclogite to upper greenschist facies P–T conditions. The proximity of the ZSF in the Saas Fee region to the underlying continental Monte Rosa unit and the similarity of peak‐metamorphic ages suggest these two units were linked for part of their tectonic history. This in turn indicates that the Monte Rosa may have been partly responsible for rapid exhumation of the ZSF unit.
Modelling the mechanoreceptor's dynamic behaviour
Authors: Song Zhuoyi , Banks Robert W. , Bewick Guy S.
Published: June 2015

All sensory receptors adapt, i.e. they constantly adjust their sensitivity to external stimuli to match the current demands of the natural environment. Electrophysiological responses of sensory receptors from widely different modalities seem to exhibit common features related to adaptation, and these features can be used to examine the underlying sensory transduction mechanisms. Among the principal senses, mechanosensation remains the least understood at the cellular level. To gain greater insights into mechanosensory signalling, we investigated if mechanosensation displayed adaptive dynamics that could be explained by similar biophysical mechanisms in other sensory modalities. To do this, we adapted a fly photoreceptor model to describe the primary transduction process for a stretch‐sensitive mechanoreceptor, taking into account the viscoelastic properties of the accessory muscle fibres and the biophysical properties of known mechanosensitive channels (MSCs). The model's output is in remarkable agreement with the electrical properties of a primary ending in an isolated decapsulated spindle; ramp‐and‐hold stretch evokes a characteristic pattern of potential change, consisting of a large dynamic depolarization during the ramp phase and a smaller static depolarization during the hold phase. The initial dynamic component is likely to be caused by a combination of the mechanical properties of the muscle fibres and a refractory state in the MSCs. Consistent with the literature, the current model predicts that the dynamic component is due to a rapid stress increase during the ramp. More novel predictions from the model are the mechanisms to explain the initial peak in the dynamic component. At the onset of the ramp, all MSCs are sensitive to external stimuli, but as they become refractory (inactivated), fewer MSCs are able to respond to the continuous stretch, causing a sharp decrease after the peak response. The same mechanism could contribute a faster component in the ‘sensory habituation’ of mechanoreceptors, in which a receptor responds more strongly to the first stimulus episode during repetitive stimulation.
Comprehensive analysis of patient and caregiver predictors for caregiver burden, anxiety and depression in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Lou Qing , Liu Shuling , Huo Ya Ruth , Liu Mengyuan , Liu Shuai , Ji Yong
Published: June 2015

Aims and objectives

The primary aim of this study was to examine the correlations between patient and caregiver characteristics with caregiver burden, anxiety and depression in Alzheimer's Disease. Secondary aim was to determine which behavioural and psychological symptoms had the greatest impact on caregiver burden, anxiety and depression in Alzheimer's Disease.

Background

Caregivers of individuals with Alzheimer's Disease experience high levels of burden, both psychologically and physically. Previous studies have examined caregiver burden, anxiety and depression separately. However, no paper has examined these three psychological conditions simultaneously.

Design

A cross‐sectional design.

Methods

A total of 310 patients with probable Alzheimer's Disease and their primary caregivers were assessed. Cognitive impairment and neuropsychiatric symptoms were assessed with the Mini Mental State Examination, Montreal Cognitive Assessment, Clock Drawing Test and Neuropsychiatric Inventory, respectively. Caregiver burden, anxiety and depression were assessed with the ZBI, Generalised Anxiety Disorder Scale‐7 and Patient Health Questionnaire‐9, respectively.

Results

All 12 neuropsychiatric symptoms in the Neuropsychiatric Inventory were significantly correlated with caregiver burden, anxiety and depression, with the top three neuropsychiatric predictors being depression, apathy and anxiety. Furthermore, higher levels of caregiver anxiety were associated with a longer duration of being a caregiver. Within caregivers, higher levels of depression were independently associated with higher numbers of additional caregivers, lower educational background and being the spouse of the patient. Higher levels of burden were associated with a longer duration of being a caregiver and being the spouse of the patient. Caregiver burden, anxiety or depression were not significantly correlated with hours/day of caring for the patient.

Conclusions

Caregiver burden, anxiety and depression were significantly correlated with different neuropsychiatric symptoms in the Neuropsychiatric Inventory.

Relevance to clinical practice

Practitioners are able to identify caregivers at risk for burden, anxiety and depression. Understanding which Neuropsychiatric Inventory symptom is more closely associated with distress in caregivers will help practitioners to be more specific and effective in detecting caregiver distress.
The lived experience of adults with ulcerative colitis
Authors: Sammut Jacqueline , Scerri Josianne , Xuereb Rita Borg
Published: June 2015

Aims and objectives

The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of adults living with ulcerative colitis.

Background

Research to date has focused on the impact of inflammatory bowel disease, by analysing the responses of persons with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease collectively. This article addresses the dearth in literature by exploring the experiences of adults living with ulcerative colitis.

Design

An exploratory qualitative phenomenological design was used.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with a purposive sample of 10 adults with ulcerative colitis. Verbatim transcripts were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis.

Results

Three super‐ordinate themes emerged from the analysis: ‘living with physical discomfort’, ‘emotional turmoil in living the experience’ and ‘social interactions’.

Conclusion

The participants described a fundamental change in their lifestyle, as a result of physical discomfort and emotional turmoil. Misconceptions held regarding the causes of their disease, further compounded their negative emotional experience.

Relevance to clinical practice

It is of importance that health care professionals understand and explore the unique perspectives of individuals with ulcerative colitis. These perspectives relate to both physical and psychosocial issues. The needs and concerns of persons with ulcerative colitis can then guide the formulation and development of an individualised care plan.
Maternal Work Absence: A Longitudinal Study of Language Impairment and Behavior Problems in Preschool Children
Authors: Nes Ragnhild B. , Hauge Lars J. , Kornstad Tom , Landolt Markus A. , Irgens Lorentz , Eskedal Leif , Kristensen Petter , Vollrath Margarete E.
Published: June 2015

Combining work and family responsibilities is challenging when children have special needs, and mothers commonly make employment‐related adjustments. In this study, the authors examined associations between maternal work absence and child language impairment and behavior problems in preschool children. Questionnaire data at child age 3 years from 33,778 mothers participating in the prospective population‐based Norwegian Mother and Child Cohort Study were linked to national register data on employment and long‐term physician‐certified sick leave at child age 3–5 years. Mothers who reported having a child with language impairment had a consistently higher risk of not being employed and were at increased risk of taking long‐term sick leave at child age 5 years. Co‐occurring problems were associated with excess risk. Language impairments in preschool children, in particular when they are co‐occurring with behavior problems, are likely to have a range of negative short‐ and long‐term consequences for the financial and overall health and well‐being of mothers and their families.
Genetic Diversity Analysis of Mycogone perniciosa Causing Wet Bubble Disease of Agaricus bisporus in China Using SRAP
Authors: Zhou Chunyuan , Li Dan , Chen Liangchen , Li Yu
Published: June 2015

In this study, 38 Mycogone perniciosa isolates of Agaricus bisporus from the main production areas in China were analysed for investigating the genetic diversity using sequence‐related amplification polymorphism (SRAP). A total of 132 polymorphic bands were obtained, ranging in size from 100 to 1700 base pairs. According to the dendrogram produced by the unweighted pair‐group method with arithmetic average of similarity coefficients from SRAP data, all the tested strains were divided into four clusters at a 71.6% similarity level. Strains 1–3 and 13–17 from, respectively, Xichong County of Sichuan Province and Yongchang County of Gansu Province were clustered in the same clade; strains 4–8 and 9–12 from, respectively, Long Hai City of Fujian Province and Luoyang City of Henan Province clustered in sa second clade; strains 18–21 from Wuhan City of Hubei Province grouped together in a third cluster distinct from the other strains.
Abdominal Ultrasound Examination Findings in 534 Hyperthyroid Cats Referred for Radioiodine Treatment Between 2007–2010
Authors: Nussbaum L.K. , Scavelli T.D. , Scavelli D.M. , Pintar J. , Henderson A.K. , DeMarco J.A. , Worwag S. , Bastian R.P. , Kittner H.S.
Published: June 2015

Background

The prevalence of concurrent disease in hyperthyroid cats is unknown.

Objectives

To identify the prevalence of concurrent intra‐abdominal disease using abdominal ultrasound examination (AUS) in hyperthyroid cats referred for radioactive iodine treatment (RIT) and to determine whether the requirement for pretreatmentAUSis justified.

Animals

Five hundred and thirty‐four client‐owned cats diagnosed with hyperthyroidism and referred forRIT.

Methods

Retrospective study. Age, breed, sex, body weight, clinical signs, total serum T4 concentration, blood urea nitrogen (BUN) concentration, serum creatinine concentration, urine specific gravity (USG),AUSresults, and biopsy or cytology results, or both (if obtained) were collected from the medical records.

Results

The prevalence of concurrent disease identified usingAUSin hyperthyroid cats referred forRITwas 36.1%; 22.8% of the cats in the study had renal disease and 2.4% had confirmed neoplasia. Significant differences in medianUSG(Pvalue 0.032) and medianBUN(Pvalue 0.028) were found between cats that had abnormal kidneys onAUScompared to those with normal‐appearing kidneys. Only 2.2% of the cats were not treated withRITas a result of changes identified onAUSand subsequently obtained cytology or biopsy results.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

The results indicate that pretreatmentAUSin hyperthyroid cats referred forRITis unnecessary in most patients.
Association of Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P)/S1P Receptor‐1 Pathway with Cell Proliferation and Survival in Canine Hemangiosarcoma
Authors: Rodriguez A.M. , Graef A.J. , LeVine D.N. , Cohen I.R. , Modiano J.F. , Kim J.‐H.
Published: June 2015

Background

Sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P) is a key biolipid signaling molecule that regulates cell growth and survival, but it has not been studied in tumors from dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

S1P/S1P1 signaling will contribute to the progression of hemangiosarcoma (HSA).

Animals

Thirteen spontaneous HSA tissues, 9 HSA cell lines, 8 nonmalignant tissues, including 6 splenic hematomas and 2 livers with vacuolar degeneration, and 1 endothelial cell line derived from a dog with splenic hematoma were used.

Methods

This was a retrospective case series and in vitro study. Samples were obtained as part of medically necessary diagnostic procedures. Microarray, qRT‐PCR, immunohistochemistry, and immunoblotting were performed to examine S1P1 expression. S1P concentrations were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. S1P signaling was evaluated by intracellular Ca2+ mobilization; proliferation and survival were evaluated using the MTS assay and Annexin V staining.

Results

Canine HSA cells expressed higher levels of S1P1 mRNA than nonmalignant endothelial cells. S1P1 protein was present in HSA tissues and cell lines. HSA cells appeared to produce low levels of S1P, but they selectively consumed S1P from the culture media. Exogenous S1P induced an increase in intracellular calcium as well as increased proliferation and viability of HSA cells. Prolonged treatment with FTY720, an inhibitor of S1P1, decreased S1P1 protein expression and induced apoptosis of HSA cells.

Conclusions and clinical importance

S1P/S1P1 signaling pathway functions to maintain HSA cell viability and proliferation. The data suggest that S1P1 or the S1P pathway in general could be targets for therapeutic intervention for dogs with HSA.
Adverse outcomes of pregnancy in women with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Hagström Hannes , Höijer Jonas , Ludvigsson Jonas F. , Bottai Matteo , Ekbom Anders , Hultcrantz Rolf , Stephansson Olof , Stokkeland Knut
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is considered the most common liver disease in the world, but little is known about its potential association with pregnancy outcomes. We aimed to investigate pregnancy outcomes in NAFLD.

Methods

The Swedish Medical Birth Register (MBR) was used to identify births between 1992 and 2011 (N = 1 960 416). By linkage with the National Patient Register, we identified women with a diagnosis of NAFLD. The MBR was then used to identify outcomes: gestational diabetes, pre‐eclampsia, Caesarean section, Apgar score <7 at 5 min, preterm birth (<37 weeks), low birth weight (<2500 g), infants born small for gestational age and congenital malformations. As controls, we used women with no diagnosis for NAFLD divided into two groups; with and without polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Poisson regression was used to estimate relative risks (RRs) adjusted for maternal age, smoking status and body mass index at early pregnancy, parity and prepregnancy diabetes.

Results

We identified 110 pregnancies in women with NAFLD. Using women without a diagnosis of NAFLD or PCOS as controls; NAFLD was associated with gestational diabetes [adjusted RRs 2.78; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.25–6.15], pre‐eclampsia (aRR 1.95; 95% CI 1.03–3.70), Caesarean section (aRR 1.52; 95% CI 1.19–1.94), preterm birth (aRR 2.50; 95% CI 1.38–4.55) and with low birth weight (aRR 2.40; 95% CI 1.21–4.78).

Conclusion

Women with a diagnosis of NAFLD prior to giving birth have increased risks for adverse pregnancy outcome independently of body mass index and diabetes, and should be carefully monitored during antenatal care.
Social science and linguistic text analysis of nurses’ records: a systematic review and critique
Authors: Buus Niels , Hamilton Bridget Elizabeth
Published: June 2015

The two aims of the paper were to systematically review and critique social science and linguistic text analyses of nursing records in order to inform future research in this emerging area of research. Systematic searches in reference databases and in citation indexes identified 12 articles that included analyses of the social and linguistic features of records and recording. Two reviewers extracted data using established criteria for the evaluation of qualitative research papers. A common characteristic of nursing records was the economical use of language with local meanings that conveyed little information to the uninitiated reader. Records were dominated by technocratic‐medical discourse focused on patients’ bodies, and they depicted only very limited aspects of nursing practice. Nurses made moral evaluations in their categorisation of patients, which reflected detailed surveillance of patients’ disturbing behaviour. The text analysis methods were rarely transparent in the articles, which could suggest research quality problems. For most articles, the significance of the findings was substantiated more by theoretical readings of the institutional settings than by the analysis of textual data. More probing empirical research of nurses’ records and a wider range of theoretical perspectives has the potential to expose the situated meanings of nursing work in healthcare organisations.
A consistent course of events or a series of coincidences: nursing in Poland from the 19th to the 21st century
Authors: Majda Anna , Ziarko Ewa , Zalewska‐Puchała Joanna
Published: June 2015

The development of nursing began in Poland much later than it did elsewhere, for instance in the United Kingdom, the United States, or Germany, and it came up against difficult conditions. After a brief twenty‐year period of development between 1918 and 1939, it almost stalled during the war (1939–45), only to be followed by nearly twenty years of chaos. Nursing started to come out of this difficult period at the beginning of the 1960s. The turn of the 21st century saw the emergence of extensive professional development and training opportunities for nurses. This change was brought about as much by political, social and economic issues, health care requirements, and the advancement of science, medicine, the birth of humanitarism, the growth of the feminist movement, the European Agreement on the Instruction and Education of Nurses, the WHO European Strategy for Nursing and Midwifery Education, the Bologna declaration, as well as the activities undertaken by the European Union, the International Council of Nurses, the American and Polish Red Cross, the Rockefeller Foundation, the Polish Association of Nurses, and the professional self‐governing body. The transformation of nursing into an independent profession was further boosted by physicians deeply involved in the issue and female pioneers of nursing.
Incorporating phosphorus cycling into global modeling efforts: a worthwhile, tractable endeavor
Authors: Reed Sasha C. , Yang Xiaojuan , Thornton Peter E.
Published: June 2015

Myriad field, laboratory, and modeling studies show that nutrient availability plays a fundamental role in regulating CO2 exchange between the Earth's biosphere and atmosphere, and in determining how carbon pools and fluxes respond to climatic change. Accordingly, global models that incorporate coupled climate–carbon cycle feedbacks made a significant advance with the introduction of a prognostic nitrogen cycle. Here we propose that incorporating phosphorus cycling represents an important next step in coupled climate–carbon cycling model development, particularly for lowland tropical forests where phosphorus availability is often presumed to limit primary production. We highlight challenges to including phosphorus in modeling efforts and provide suggestions for how to move forward.

Contents

Summary
324

I.
Introduction
324

II.
A need for phosphorus in global models
325

III.
Considerations for including phosphorus
326

IV.
Opportunities for moving forward
327

Acknowledgements
328

References
328
Two showy traits, scent emission and pigmentation, are finely coregulated by the MYB transcription factor PH4 in petunia flowers
Authors: Cna'ani Alon , Spitzer‐Rimon Ben , Ravid Jasmin , Farhi Moran , Masci Tania , Aravena‐Calvo Javiera , Ovadis Marianna , Vainstein Alexander
Published: June 2015

The mechanism underlying the emission of phenylpropanoid volatiles is poorly understood. Here, we reveal the involvement of PH4, a petunia MYB‐R2R3 transcription factor previously studied for its role in vacuolar acidification, in floral volatile emission.

We used the virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) approach to knock down PH4 expression in petunia, measured volatile emission and internal pool sizes by GC‐MS, and analyzed transcript abundances of scent‐related phenylpropanoid genes in flowers.

Silencing of PH4 resulted in a marked decrease in floral phenylpropanoid volatile emission, with a concurrent increase in internal pool levels. Expression of scent‐related phenylpropanoid genes was not affected. To identify putative scent‐related targets of PH4, we silenced PH5, a tonoplast‐localized H+‐ATPase that maintains vacuolar pH homeostasis. Suppression of PH5 did not yield the reduced‐emission phenotype, suggesting that PH4 does not operate in the context of floral scent through regulation of vacuolar pH.

We conclude that PH4 is a key floral regulator that integrates volatile production and emission processes and interconnects two essential floral traits – color and scent.
The WUSCHEL‐RELATED HOMEOBOX 3 gene PaWOX3 regulates lateral organ formation in Norway spruce
Authors: Alvarez José M. , Sohlberg Joel , Engström Peter , Zhu Tianqing , Englund Marie , Moschou Panagiotis N. , von Arnold Sara
Published: June 2015

In angiosperms, WUSCHEL‐RELATED HOMEOBOX 3 (WOX3) genes are required for the recruitment of founder cells from the lateral domains of shoot meristems that form lateral regions of leaves. However, the regulation of the formation of lateral organs in gymnosperms remains unknown.

By using somatic embryos of Norway spruce (Picea abies) we have studied the expression and function of PaWOX3 during embryo development. The mRNA abundance of PaWOX3 was determined by quantitative real‐time PCR, and the spatial expression of PaWOX3 was analysed by histochemical β‐glucuronidase (GUS) assays and in situ mRNA hybridization. To investigate the function of PaWOX3, we analysed how downregulation of PaWOX3 in RNA interference lines affected embryo development and morphology.

PaWOX3 was highly expressed in mature embryos at the base of each cotyledon close to the junction between the cotyledons, and in the lateral margins of cotyledons and needles, separating them into an adaxial and an abaxial side. Downregulation of the expression of PaWOX3 caused defects in lateral margin outgrowth in cotyledons and needles, and reduced root elongation.

Our data suggest that the WOX3 function in margin outgrowth in lateral organs is conserved among the seed plants, whereas its function in root elongation may be unique to gymnosperms.
AtRTD – a comprehensive reference transcript dataset resource for accurate quantification of transcript‐specific expression in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Zhang Runxuan , Calixto Cristiane P. G. , Tzioutziou Nikoleta A. , James Allan B. , Simpson Craig G. , Guo Wenbin , Marquez Yamile , Kalyna Maria , Patro Rob , Eyras Eduardo , Barta Andrea , Nimmo Hugh G. , Brown John W. S.
Published: June 2015

RNA‐sequencing (RNA‐seq) allows global gene expression analysis at the individual transcript level. Accurate quantification of transcript variants generated by alternative splicing (AS) remains a challenge. We have developed a comprehensive, nonredundant Arabidopsis reference transcript dataset (AtRTD) containing over 74 000 transcripts for use with algorithms to quantify AS transcript isoforms in RNA‐seq.

The AtRTD was formed by merging transcripts from TAIR10 and novel transcripts identified in an AS discovery project. We have estimated transcript abundance in RNA‐seq data using the transcriptome‐based alignment‐free programmes Sailfish and Salmon and have validated quantification of splicing ratios from RNA‐seq by high resolution reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (HR RT‐PCR).

Good correlations between splicing ratios from RNA‐seq and HR RT‐PCR were obtained demonstrating the accuracy of abundances calculated for individual transcripts in RNA‐seq.

The AtRTD is a resource that will have immediate utility in analysing Arabidopsis RNA‐seq data to quantify differential transcript abundance and expression.
Fussy eating and feeding difficulties in infants and toddlers consuming a cows’ milk exclusion diet
Authors: Maslin K. , Dean T. , Arshad S. H. , Venter C.
Published: June 2015

Background

Cows’ milk allergy (CMA) is the most common infant food allergy in the United Kingdom, requiring a strict exclusion diet. Feeding difficulties and fussy eating are also very common problems in young children and can negatively influence feeding and dietary intake in an infant with CMA. The aim of this study was to compare the levels of fussy eating and feeding difficulties in two groups of young children: a group consuming an exclusion diet for CMA and a control group of children consuming an unrestricted diet.

Method

Participants were recruited from allergy and health visitor clinics on the Isle of Wight. Parents completed a number of questionnaires about their child's feeding behaviour.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐six participants (mean age 13 months) were recruited. Participants consuming an exclusion diet for CMA had significantly higher scores for both fussy eating and feeding difficulties (p < 0.05), although overall both groups were within the normal range. A number of symptoms were found to be positively moderately correlated with higher feeding difficulty score (p < 0.05). A higher consumption of milk/milk substitute consumed per day was positively correlated to both feeding difficulties and fussy eating (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Participants consuming an exclusion diet for CMA have higher scores for feeding difficulties and fussy eating than those consuming an unrestricted diet; however, the majority of participants’ scores were within the normal range and did not affect the growth.
Prescription patterns of inhaled corticosteroids for preschool children – A Norwegian register study
Authors: Øymar Knut , Mikalsen Ingvild Bruun , Furu Kari , Nystad Wenche , Karlstad Øystein
Published: June 2015

Background

Although guidelines for treatment of wheeze and asthma in preschool children are available, symptoms are overlapping and it may be difficult to decide which children should be given inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Previous studies suggest an inappropriate prescription pattern of ICS in this age group. We studied time trends of ICS use in preschool children in Norway during 2004–2013 by age, gender and physician specialty, and the persistence of ICS use during preschool years.

Methods

Data were drawn from the Norwegian Prescription Database. The study population consisted of children ≤5 years who were prescribed ICS (alone or in combination) during 2004–2013.

Results

The one‐year prevalence of ICS use was generally high, and increased from 2004 to 2010, but decreased thereafter. The prevalence was highest in 2‐year‐olds (boys 12.9% and girls 9.3% in 2010) and declined by age, and higher among boys in all ages. 40–50% of ICS users received only one prescription per year. The share of children with persistent use of ICS over several preschool years was low, irrespective of the age at the first prescription. The majority of prescriptions were given by general practitioners, increasing during the study period.

Conclusions

The prevalence of ICS prescription for preschool children was high, but with low persistence, suggesting that ICS are frequently given for intermittent asthma‐like symptoms. Asthma guidelines suggest a restrictive use of ICS during the first years of life, and the results may call for actions to better implement these guidelines.
Severity of rhinitis and wheezing is strongly associated in preschoolers: A population‐based study
Authors: Pereira Ana Margarida , Morais‐Almeida Mário , Santos Natacha , Nunes Carlos , Bousquet Jean , Fonseca João Almeida
Published: June 2015

Background

In preschool children, no study assessed the relation between wheezing and rhinitis severity. Our aims were to estimate the prevalence of current wheezing (CW) in preschoolers and to study the association between CW and current rhinitis (CR), considering its severity/persistency.

Methods

This is a cross‐sectional, nationwide, population‐based study including a representative sample of 5003 Portuguese children aged 3–5 years. Data were collected by a face‐to‐face interview with caregivers using an adapted ISAAC questionnaire. CW was defined as presence of ≥1 wheezing episode in the previous 12 months. Rhinitis severity/persistency was classified according to Allergic Rhinitis and its Impact on Asthma.

Results

Current wheezing prevalence was 24.5% [95% CI 23.3–25.7]; 9.4% of the participants had ≥4 wheezing episodes in the previous year. Children with CR had an odds ratio (OR) of 4.0 [95% CI 3.4–4.5] for CW; it was highest for children with moderate–severe persistent rhinitis (11.5 [95% CI 8.1–16.3]), even after adjusting for possible confounders. Wheezers with CR reported more wheezing treatment use (p = 0.024) than those without CR. There was a trend for a higher number of wheezing episodes with more persistent and severe nasal disease – 48.4% of children with moderate–severe persistent rhinitis had >4 wheezing episodes vs. 28.9% in moderate–severe intermittent, 20.0% in mild persistent, 10.8% in mild intermittent, and 3.6% in those without CR; p < 0.001.

Conclusions

Current wheezing was present in almost 25% of preschool children and was strongly associated with rhinitis, especially moderate–severe persistent disease. Preschoolers with both CW and rhinitis seem to have a more severe phenotype, emphasizing the need for concurrent evaluation of nasal and bronchial symptoms even in small children.
Right‐Sizing Cities: A Look at Five Cities
Authors: Hummel Daniel
Published: June 2015

The right‐sizing concept in planning practice is a relatively new concept in contrast to previous orientations of planned growth. Right‐sizing recognizes that some shrinking cities will continue to shrink and it would be advantageous for these cities to plan for this shrinkage. One of the key indicators of success of a planned effort, such as right‐sizing, is city fiscal health. This article includes a multiple case analysis of five cities which are shrinking and right‐sizing. The purpose of the cases is to highlight the right‐sizing conception of planning and any possible linkages right‐sizing has with fiscal health.
Infantile form of muscle phosphofructokinase deficiency in a premature neonate
Authors: Wu Pei‐Ling , Yang Yung‐Ning , Tey Shu‐Leei , Yang Chun‐Hwa , Yang San‐Nan , Lin Chien‐Seng
Published: June 2015

Muscle phosphofructokinase (PFK) deficiency is a rare autosomal recessive disease. We report the case of a preterm female infant who was diagnosed with the infantile form of phosphofructokinase deficiency due to a lack of PFK activity in her muscles, manifesting at a corrected age of 1 month as floppy infant syndrome, congenital joint contracture, cleft palate and duplication of the pelvicalyceal system. She died at a corrected age of 6 months due to respiratory failure. We further reviewed other infantile cases in the literature. Congenital hypotonia (78.6%), arthrogryposis (64.3%) and other systemic involvement including encephalopathy (35.7%) and cardiomyopathy (21.4%) are common presentations of the infantile form of PFK deficiency. The overall survival rate of the infantile form is low. The early recognition of multiple system involvement is essential to provide better clinical care for infants with the infantile form of PFK deficiency.
Toward a poetics of air: sequencing and surfacing breath
Authors: Engelmann Sasha
Published: June 2015

This paper develops the concept of a poetics of air: a notion borrowed from cultural anthropology that denotes an awareness of the simultaneous material, affective and aesthetic impressions of air and atmosphere. While there is a rich and growing body of work on atmospheric geopolitics and aeromobility, much less attention has been given to the affective and aesthetic dimensions of being in and witnessing air and atmosphere. This paper uses the sensory, affective and aesthetic experience of engaging with an artwork – Dryden Goodwin's large‐scale urban installation Breathe – to reflect on the possibility and promise of an airy poetics for expanding disciplinary concerns with air and atmosphere. It is through producing a moving image that is sustained, ventilated and activated by air – achieved through the artist's production of a visual sequence and ‘active surface’ – that Breathe performs an airy poetics: it conveys the porosity of breathing bodies, the texture and materiality of air, and suggests what a collective sensing of atmosphere might look and feel like.
Forced migration in the United Kingdom: women's journeys to escape domestic violence
Authors: Bowstead Janet Christine
Published: June 2015

This paper examines a process of forced migration within the United Kingdom: that of women (often with children) escaping violence within relationships. Studies of internal migration in the UK have rarely examined forced migration or emphasised gendered processes, and studies of migration and relationship breakdown have under‐recognised abuse in forcing migration decisions. This study used administrative, survey and interview data to identify and explore processes at a range of scales, from individual to national. The empirical analysis reveals that there are high rates of forced residential mobility within many local authorities as well as migration across local authority boundaries, with over 18 000 journeys a year by women to access formal services in England. The migration is distinctive from other internal migration in the UK because of its gendered and forced nature: women are relocating to escape violence and had not otherwise intended to migrate. Journeys are therefore typically focused on trying to minimise disruption either by staying as local as they can, but avoiding friends, family and known locations, or by travelling to a similar type of place to the one left. The primary concern is safety, and journeys are often complex and segmented into multiple stages over time and space. However, despite such disruption at the individual scale, the journeys do not aggregate into net migration flows at the local or national scale and the overall process is one of spatial churn. The multi‐scale analysis of this research reveals the turbulence beneath the surface, and highlights a forced migration process which had previously remained invisible to studies of internal migration in the UK.
Blood donation in China: sustaining efforts and challenges in achieving safety and availability
Authors: Yin Yong‐Hua , Li Chang‐Qing , Liu Zhong
Published: June 2015

China has entered a new phase in blood safety and availability through persistent efforts in the past decades. Based on national data from 2008 to 2012, we present a comprehensive review on the blood services ranging from policy and organization, supply, donors, screening and processing, and clinical use to government response in contemporary China. Current evidence suggests that the Chinese blood industries, after continual efforts in reforms on the legal framework and national management system, have been in a relatively steady but bottleneck stage. Although the blood industries have had an impressive track record on management and resolving problems, such as low availability, limited donors, deficient laboratory tests, shortage of blood products, and unnecessary clinical usage of blood still exist nationwide. While medical technology and services have seen a rapid increase in progress in recent years, they have not coordinated with the development of the national health care system. This article presents an analysis with detailed data, rich contents, and recent response from the Chinese government, allowing readers to appreciate how China, a country with more than 19.13% of the world's population, has long endeavored to improve safety and availability of blood. Meantime, the article sincerely welcomes the guidance on policymaking and technical assistance from the international community. Data in this article do not include those of Hong Kong, Macao, or Taiwan.