bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Assessing the complex sponge microbiota: core, variable and species-specific bacterial communities in marine sponges
Authors: Schmitt Susanne , Tsai Peter , Bell James , Fromont Jane , Ilan Micha , Lindquist Niels , Perez Thierry , Rodrigo Allen , Schupp Peter J , Vacelet Jean , Webster Nicole , Hentschel Ute , Taylor Michael W 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
Marine sponges are well known for their associations with highly diverse, yet very specific and often highly similar microbiota. The aim of this study was to identify potential bacterial sub-populations in relation to sponge phylogeny and sampling sites and to define the core bacterial community. 16S ribosomal RNA gene amplicon pyrosequencing was applied to 32 sponge species from eight locations around the world's oceans, thereby generating 2567 operational taxonomic units (OTUs at the 97% sequence similarity level) in total and up to 364 different OTUs per sponge species. The taxonomic richness detected in this study comprised 25 bacterial phyla with Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi and Poribacteria being most diverse in sponges. Among these phyla were nine candidate phyla, six of them found for the first time in sponges. Similarity comparison of bacterial communities revealed no correlation with host phylogeny but a tropical sub-population in that tropical sponges have more similar bacterial communities to each other than to subtropical sponges. A minimal core bacterial community consisting of very few OTUs (97%, 95% and 90%) was found. These microbes have a global distribution and are probably acquired via environmental transmission. In contrast, a large species-specific bacterial community was detected, which is represented by OTUs present in only a single sponge species. The species-specific bacterial community is probably mainly vertically transmitted. It is proposed that different sponges contain different bacterial species, however, these bacteria are still closely related to each other explaining the observed similarity of bacterial communities in sponges in this and previous studies. This global analysis represents the most comprehensive study of bacterial symbionts in sponges to date and provides novel insights into the complex structure of these unique associations.
Fast accretion of the Earth with a late Moon-forming giant impact
Authors: Yu Gang , Jacobsen Stein B. 
Published: October 2011

Constraints on the formation history of the Earth are critical for understanding of planet formation processes.
182
Hf-
182
W chronometry of terrestrial rocks points to accretion of Earth in approximately 30 Myr after the formation of the solar system, immediately followed by the Moon-forming giant impact (MGI). Nevertheless, some N-body simulations and
182
Hf-
182
W and
87
Rb-
87
Sr chronology of some lunar rocks have been used to argue for a later formation of the Moon at 52 to > 100 Myr. This discrepancy is often explained by metal-silicate disequilibrium during giant impacts. Here we describe a model of the
182
W isotopic evolution of the accreting Earth, including constraints from partitioning of refractory siderophile elements (Ni, Co, W, V, and Nb) during core formation, which can explain the discrepancy. Our modeling shows that the concentrations of the siderophile elements of the mantle are consistent with high-pressure metal-silicate equilibration in a terrestrial magma ocean. Our analysis shows that the timing of the MGI is inversely correlated with the time scale of the main accretion stage of the Earth. Specifically, the earliest time the MGI could have taken place right at approximately 30 Myr, corresponds to the end of main-stage accretion at approximately 30 Myr. A late MGI (> 52 Myr) requires the main stage of the Earth’s accretion to be completed rapidly in < 10.7 ± 2.5 Myr. These are the two end member solutions and a continuum of solutions exists in between these extremes.
Glutathione Deficiency of the Arabidopsis Mutant pad2-1 Affects Oxidative Stress-Related Events, Defense Gene Expression, and the Hypersensitive Response
Authors: Dubreuil-Maurizi Carole , Vitecek Jan , Marty Laurent , Branciard Lorelise , Frettinger Patrick , Wendehenne David , Meyer Andreas J. , Mauch Felix , Poinssot Benoît 
Published: October 2011

Abstract
The Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) phytoalexin-deficient mutant pad2-1 displays enhanced susceptibility to a broad range of pathogens and herbivorous insects that correlates with deficiencies in the production of camalexin, indole glucosinolates, and salicylic acid (SA). The pad2-1 mutation is localized in the GLUTAMATE-CYSTEINE LIGASE (GCL) gene encoding the first enzyme of glutathione biosynthesis. While pad2-1 glutathione deficiency is not caused by a decrease in GCL transcripts, analysis of GCL protein level revealed that pad2-1 plants contained only 48% of the wild-type protein amount. In contrast to the wild type, the oxidized form of GCL was dominant in pad2-1, suggesting a distinct redox environment. This finding was corroborated by the expression of GRX1-roGFP2, showing that the cytosolic glutathione redox potential was significantly less negative in pad2-1. Analysis of oxidative stress-related gene expression showed a higher transcript accumulation in pad2-1 of GLUTATHIONE REDUCTASE, GLUTATHIONE-S-TRANSFERASE, and RESPIRATORY BURST OXIDASE HOMOLOG D in response to the oomycete Phytophthora brassicae. Interestingly, oligogalacturonide elicitation in pad2-1 revealed a lower plasma membrane depolarization that was found to act upstream of an impaired hydrogen peroxide production. This impaired hydrogen peroxide production was also observed during pathogen infection and correlated with a reduced hypersensitive response in pad2-1. In addition, a lack of pathogen-triggered expression of the ISOCHORISMATE SYNTHASE1 gene, coding for the SA-biosynthetic enzyme isochorismate synthase, was identified as the cause of the SA deficiency in pad2-1. Together, our results indicate that the pad2-1 mutation is related to a decrease in GCL protein and that the resulting glutathione deficiency negatively affects important processes of disease resistance.
Seasonal home ranges of elephants (Loxodonta africana) and their movements between Sabi Sand Reserve and Kruger National Park
Authors: Thomas Bindi , Holland John D. , Minot Edward O. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractWe studied the seasonal home ranges and space use of three breeding herds of elephants (Loxodonta africana) for 3–5 years in an area comprising South Africa’s Sabi Sand Reserve (SSR) and Kruger National Park (KNP). Global Positioning System (GPS) transmitters were attached to the matriarchs of three herds and set to transmit a single daily location. Each herd was located in SSR 31%, 60% and 84% of the time. During the wet summer months, the herds walked longer distances and occupied larger seasonal home ranges than during the corresponding dry winter period. Core areas were centred on riverine habitats within both parks, with all three herds exhibiting closer distances to rivers and artificial water holes than would be expected if they were moving randomly. Home ranges within SSR overlapped much of the park. However, in KNP they occupied discrete areas with little overlap. Much of the movement between the two parks occurred along well‐defined corridors. This study shows that elephant herds depended upon the resources of both parks, providing an insight into their within‐ and between‐seasonal movements. This highlights the importance of ongoing co‐operation between wildlife managers from both parks when forming policy.
Systems thinking perspectives applied to healthcare transition for youth with disabilities: a paradigm shift for practice, policy and research
Authors: Hamdani Y. , Jetha A. , Norman C. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractBackground  Healthcare transition (HCT) for youth with disabilities is a complex phenomenon influenced by multiple interacting factors, including health, personal and environmental factors. Current research on the transition to adulthood for disabled youth has primarily focused on identifying these multilevel factors to guide the development of interventions to improve the HCT process. However, little is known about how this complex array of factors interacts and contributes to successful HCT. Systems thinking provides a theoretically informed perspective that accounts for complexity and can contribute to enhanced understanding of the interactions among HCT factors. The objective of this paper is to introduce general concepts of systems thinking as applied to HCT practice and research.Methods  Several systems thinking concepts and principles are introduced and a discussion of HCT as a complex system is provided. Systems dynamics methodology is described as one systems method for conceptualizing HCT. A preliminary systems dynamics model is presented to facilitate discourse on the application of systems thinking principles to HCT practice, policy and research.Conclusions  An understanding of the complex interactions and patterns of relationships in HCT can assist health policy makers and practitioners in determining key areas of intervention, the impact of these interventions on the system and the potential intended and unintended consequences of change. This paper provides initial examination of applying systems thinking to inform future research and practice on HCT.
Healthcare transitions for adolescents with chronic life‐threatening conditions using a Delphi method to identify research priorities for clinicians and academics in Canada
Authors: Fletcher‐Johnston M. , Marshall S. K. , Straatman L. 
Published: October 2011

AbstractPurpose  Research has only begun to examine the complexity of transition to adulthood under illness conditions. A Delphi method may be utilized to identify pertinent research priorities for academics and clinicians in adolescent healthcare transitions and prioritize a framework for an ongoing programme of research.Methods  Through a comprehensive recruitment strategy throughout Canada, 114 clinicians and academics were invited to participate in this national study. Three phases were conducted until consensus could be achieved for the five most pressing research priorities.Results  Thirty‐eight respondents completed at least one of the three phases of the process. All responses were analysed, and five questions in phase 3 achieving a level of consensus ranging 64–80% were identified as the top five research priorities. These questions included: skills and knowledge adolescents require for the transition process, how to measure success, the factors that influence a successful transition and whether good transitions improve health outcomes.Conclusions  The results of this study can inform and prioritize a framework for an ongoing programme of research in Canada. The inclusion of clinicians and academics ensures that the research agenda incorporates perspectives from the front‐line work of individuals providing care to this population as well as individuals from the academic community with important knowledge and skills related to research approaches and methods.
No detectable beneficial systemic immunomodulatory effects of a specific synbiotic mixture in infants with atopic dermatitis
Authors: van der Aa L. B. , Lutter R. , Heymans H. S. A. , Smids B. S. , Dekker T. , van Aalderen W. M. C. , Sillevis Smitt J. H. , Knippels L. M. J. , Garssen J. , Nauta A. J. , Sprikkelman A. B. ,   the Synbad Study Group
Published: October 2011

SummaryBackgroundIn a murine model of allergic inflammation, Bifidobacterium breve M‐16V has been shown to reduce IL‐4 and IgE by inducing IL‐10 and IFN‐γ. However, it remains unknown whether this strain has the same effect in humans with allergic disease.ObjectiveTo determine the effects of Bifidobacterium breve M‐16V combined with a prebiotic oligosaccharide mixture (synbiotic) on atopic markers, ex vivo cytokine production by peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) and circulating regulatory T cell percentage in infants with atopic dermatitis.MethodsIn a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled multi‐centre trial, 90 infants with atopic dermatitis, age <7 months, were randomized to receive an infant formula with Bifidobacterium breve M‐16V and a mixture of short chain galactooligosaccharides and long chain fructooligosaccharides (Immunofortis®), or the same formula without synbiotics during 12 weeks. At week 0 and 12, plasma levels of IL‐5, IgG1, IgG4, CTACK and TARC, ex vivo cytokine responses by PBMCs and percentage of regulatory T cells, were determined.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the synbiotic and the placebo group in IL‐5, IgG1, IgG4, CTACK and TARC levels and ex vivo cytokine production by anti‐CD3/anti‐CD28‐stimulated PBMCs. With allergen‐specific stimuli, we found a decreased IL‐12p40/70 and IL‐12p70 production in response to egg allergen (P = 0.04 and P = 0.01, respectively) and decreased IL‐12p70 production in response to peanut allergen (P = 0.003) in the synbiotic compared with the placebo group. Circulating regulatory T cell percentage did not significantly differ between the groups.Conclusions and Clinical RelevanceThis synbiotic mixture has no detectable effect on plasma levels of the analysed atopic disease markers, ex vivo cytokine production and circulating regulatory T cell percentage in infants with atopic dermatitis, besides down‐regulation of IL‐12 production in egg‐ and peanut‐stimulated PBMCs. These results do not support the use of this synbiotic in clinical practice.
Yolk sac tumours revisited. A review of their many faces and names
Authors: Nogales Francisco F , Preda Ovidiu , Nicolae Alina 
Published: October 2011

Nogales FF, Preda O & Nicolae A  (2012) Histopathology 60, 1023–1033Yolk sac tumours revisited. A review of their many faces and namesWe review the current knowledge on human yolk sac tumours (YSTs) 50 years after their initial description. Their complex nomenclature and histogenesis stress the fact that they are not a discrete entity, but represent a multifaceted group of neoplasms, for which the term primitive endodermal tumours would be more appropriate, accounting for their capacity to differentiate into various extraembryonal and somatic cell types. Different histological patterns of human YSTs correlate with the developmental potential of primitive endoderm and mesenchyme, but they are also similar to some murine experimental tumours. Exceptionally, YSTs replicate the tubular structures of the human yolk sac and allantois. Endodermal somatic differentiation reproduces pulmonary, intestinal and hepatic tissues and are identical with some, embryonal‐type endodermal, gastric and lung carcinomas, which are indistinguishable from YSTs. YSTs may show an overgrowth of their mesenchymal (sarcomatous) and epithelial components (such as mucinous carcinoma or carcinoid) and also be a source of haematological malignancies. YSTs associated with non‐germ cell tumours probably originate from malignant pluripotent somatic stem cells. Only AFP and glypican‐3 are characteristic immunohistochemical markers. Pluripotent antibodies (SALL4, Lin28, IMP‐3) help in differential diagnoses, while some differentiation markers (CDX2, TTF‐1, HepPar1) facilitate recognition of unusual variants of YSTs.
Midwives and oral health care during pregnancy: perceptions of pregnant women in south‐western Sydney, Australia
Authors: George Ajesh , Johnson Maree , Duff Margaret , Ajwani Shilpi , Bhole Sameer , Blinkhorn Anthony , Ellis Sharon 
Published: October 2011

Aims and objective.  This study sought to explore the perceptions of pregnant women in Australia towards oral health care during pregnancy and their views regarding midwives providing oral health education, assessment and referrals as part of antenatal care.Background.  Maintaining oral health during pregnancy is important. Yet, many pregnant women do not access dental services during this time. Antenatal care providers are now recommended to promote maternal oral health, and various countries have adopted this strategy. However, in Australia, a lack of emphasis is placed on maternal oral health especially by antenatal care providers. Currently, a preventive programme is being developed to promote maternal oral health with the help of midwives in Australia. Very little is known about the perceptions of such an approach from pregnant women.Design.  Qualitative approach.Method.  Data were collected via semi‐structured telephone interviews with 10 pregnant women residing in south‐western Sydney.Results.  Thematic analyses of the data suggest a high prevalence of poor oral health among pregnant women, especially those socioeconomically disadvantaged. The findings also highlight various barriers deterring these women from seeking dental care the most significant being lack of dental awareness, high treatment costs and misconceptions about dental treatment during pregnancy. The absence of affordable dental care remains a major barrier in Australia. The proposed preventive programme was well received by women although issues such as education for midwives and referral pathways were highlighted.Conclusions.  The findings suggest that a tailored midwifery‐initiated oral health programme has potential in Australia, especially for low‐income families as it addresses many existing barriers to dental care.Relevance to clinical practice.  Antenatal care providers in Australia should provide more information about oral health. These health professionals should be adequately educated to promote oral health. Health services should also consider offering pregnant women affordable and accessible dental services.
A systematic review of qualitative studies: patients’ experiences of preoperative communication
Authors: Chan Zenobia , Kan Carmen , Lee Patrick , Chan Isabel , Lam Joyce 
Published: October 2011

Aim. This article reports on a systematic review of qualitative studies on patients’ experiences of preoperative communication with healthcare professionals.Background. Communication is critical for providing efficient care to patients. It is especially important for patients waiting for surgery, as they experience a variety of unknowns before the procedure. Through communication with healthcare professionals, patients gain a better understanding of the surgery and the issues related to their life after the surgery. Thus, the preoperative communication between healthcare professionals and patients is a significant topic for review.Design. Systematic review.Methods. Six electronic databases (CINAHL, Cochrane Library, Embase, Medline, PsycINFO and PUBMED) were systematically searched. Qualitative studies of patients’ experiences before surgery were purposely selected for synthesis. Key themes and concepts were extracted and synthesised.Results. Eleven studies on patients’ experiences before surgery were identified. Four main themes relating to patients’ experiences of preoperative communication with healthcare professionals were identified from all 11 articles. These themes were as follows: need for information, involving relatives, need for control and healthcare professionalism.Conclusions. Patients’ experience of preoperative communication with healthcare professionals showed different needs and feelings for communication. Healthcare professionals need to have adequate knowledge, skills and positive attitudes to help patients through the journey of this critical life event.Relevance to clinical practice. Patients’ sensitivity and their different needs for communication may contribute to future advances in the training of healthcare professionals with regard to their communication knowledge and skills. They may also affect the allocation of resources for patients waiting for surgery and educating related professionals about their knowledge and skills of communication and their attitudes. Adequate space for meeting simultaneously with patients and their relatives and extra human resources and tools for the assessment of individuals’ need for communication are also required.
The cost of outpatient pneumonia in children <5 years of age in Fiji
Authors: Temple Beth , Griffiths Ulla Kou , Mulholland Edward Kim , Ratu Felisita Tupou , Tikoduadua Lisi , Russell Fiona Mary 
Published: October 2011

SummaryObjectives  Pneumonia is the most common reason for visiting an outpatient facility among children <5 years old in Fiji. The objective of this study is to describe for the first time the costs associated with an episode of outpatient pneumonia in Fiji, in terms of cost both to the government health sector and to the household.Methods  Costs were estimated for 400 clinically diagnosed pneumonia cases from two outpatient facilities, one in the capital, Suva, and one in a peri‐urban and rural area, Nausori. Household expenses relating to transport costs, treatment costs and indirect costs were determined primarily through structured interview with the caregiver. Unit costs were collected from a variety of sources. Patient‐specific costs were summarised as average costs per facility.Results  The overall average societal cost associated with an episode of outpatient pneumonia was $18.98, ranging from $14.33 in Nausori to $23.67 in Suva. Household expenses represent a significant proportion of the societal cost (29% in Nausori and 45% in Suva), with transport costs the most important household cost item. Health sector expenses were dominated by personnel costs at both sites. Both the average total household expenses and the average total health sector expenses were significantly greater in Suva than Nausori.Conclusions  A single episode of outpatient pneumonia represents a significant cost both to the government health sector and to affected households. Given the high incidence of this disease in Fiji, this places a considerable burden on society.
Investigation ofPropionibacterium acnesin progressive macular hypomelanosis using real‐time PCR and culture
Authors: de Morais Cavalcanti Silvana Maria , de França Emmanuel Rodrigues , Lins Ana Kelly , Magalhães Marcelo , de Alencar Eliane Ruth Barbosa , Magalhães Vera 
Published: October 2011

AbstractBackground Progressive macular hypomelanosis (PMH) is a dermatosis of unknown etiology. It has been concluded that it involves the presence ofPropionibacterium acnes, a saprophyte of the pilosebaceous follicles. In our study, we investigated the presence ofP. acnesin lesional and non‐lesional skin of patients with PMH through quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and bacterial culture from a skin fragment.Materials and methods An observational, exploratory study, with laboratory comparison of lesional (study group) and non‐lesional skin (comparison group), in patients with PMH, was carried out with 36 patients, seen in the dermatology outpatient setting at the Oswaldo Cruz University Hospital (OCUH), Recife, Pernambuco, Brazil, between March and May 2008. All patients were submitted to a Wood’s lamp examination, mycological research, and biopsies of lesional and non‐lesional skin from the back. Skin fragments were submitted to a histopathology test, bacterial culture, and a quantitative real‐time PCR test. The program Statistical Package for Social Sciences, version 12.0, was employed for relationship analysis with the Wilcoxon and McNemar tests.Results There was a significant predominance ofP. acneson lesional skin, in comparison to non‐lesional skin (P < 0.001), as demonstrated by culture and quantitative real‐time PCR.Conclusion AlthoughP. acnesis a saprophyte, the hypothesis may be raised that this microorganism participates in the development of PMH.