bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Social well‐being and its measurement in the nursing home, the SWON‐scale
Authors: Gerritsen Debby L , Steverink Nardi , Frijters Dinnus HM , Ooms Marcel E , Ribbe Miel W 
Published: March 2010

Aims and objectives. The aim of this study was to develop an observational scale to measure the social well‐being of nursing home residents, by assessing not only the social behaviour of the resident towards others, but also the behaviour of others towards the resident.Background. Traditionally, aspects of the social well‐being of nursing home residents are assessed according to the social activities and interactions where they engage. Although these are important indicators of social well‐being, other important indicators may include the positive social behaviour of others towards the resident (e.g. confirming the resident’s behaviour or showing affection).Design. A cross‐sectional descriptive survey design.Method. From the perspective of human social needs, items relating to fulfilment of the needs for affection, behavioural confirmation and status were formulated and tested. This took place in three nursing homes in the Netherlands that provide somatic and psycho‐geriatric care.Results. The study (samplen = 306) yielded a short and reliable scale, the Social Well‐being Of Nursing home residents‐scale, with separate sub‐scales (three items each) for fulfilment of the three social needs.Conclusions. These first results indicate that overall social well‐being and its sub‐dimensions can be measured with this new observational scale, although its validity needs to be confirmed. Including the social behaviour of others towards the resident may have provided a more comprehensive measure of the social well‐being of nursing home residents.Relevance to clinical practice. This measure may help to underscore the importance of the social behaviour of others (e.g. caregivers) for the overall social well‐being of residents and with that assist care‐providers in nursing homes to improve the social well‐being of the residents.
A concept analysis of autonomy for older people in residential care
Authors: Welford Claire , Murphy Kathy , Wallace Meredith , Casey Dympna 
Published: March 2010

Aims and objectives.  To undertake a concept analysis (CA) of residential autonomy to identify its attributes. To reveal the antecedents and consequences of autonomy for older people in residential care and thus enable this concept to be operationalised.Background.  Globally, there is an ageing population. This population and their families demand that services offer choice and recognise the older individual in care relationships.Design.  Concept analysis.Methods.  Using the same search terms, findings from a literature search in 2007 and from a follow‐up search in 2009 were used to conduct the CA. Rodgers (1989) framework was used to develop a model case of autonomy for older people in residential care. The attributes, antecedents, consequences and references were delineated.Results.  Six attributes of autonomy for older people in residential care were delineated. (1) Residents are involved in decision making while their capacity is encouraged and maintained. (2) Residents delegate their care needs based on the right to self‐determination and this can be achieved through (3) negotiated care planning, which is encouraged through open and respectful communication and (4) including families or significant others when the resident is cognitively impaired. (5) The residential unit operates a culture and atmosphere of flexibility within an ethos of maintaining resident dignity. (6) Meaningful relationships are enabled by the presence of regular and motivated staff, and these relationships enhance the residents’ opportunities to be autonomous.Conclusions.  A CA framework is useful in trying to understand a term in its context and thus make it operational.Relevance to clinical practice.  This CA is the first step required for further research on this aspect of care. This is essential in informing this nursing specialty. The attributes, antecedents and consequences can now be used to operationalise the concept in practice.
Damped oscillations in the adaptive response of the iron homeostasis network of E. coli
Authors: Amir Amnon , Meshner Shiri , Beatus Tsevi , Stavans Joel 
Published: March 2010

SummaryLiving organisms often have to adapt to sudden environmental changes and reach homeostasis. To achieve adaptation, cells deploy motifs such as feedback in their genetic networks, endowing the cellular response with desirable properties. We studied the iron homeostasis network of E. coli, which employs feedback loops to regulate iron usage and uptake, while maintaining intracellular iron at non‐toxic levels. Using fluorescence reporters for iron‐dependent promoters in bulk and microfluidics‐based, single‐cell experiments, we show that E. coli cells exhibit damped oscillations in gene expression, following sudden reductions in external iron levels. The oscillations, lasting for several generations, are independent of position along the cell cycle. Experiments with mutants in network components demonstrate the involvement of iron uptake in the oscillations. Our findings suggest that the response is driven by intracellular iron oscillations large enough to induce nearly full network activation/deactivation. We propose a mathematical model based on a negative feedback loop closed by rapid iron uptake, and including iron usage and storage, which captures the main features of the observed behaviour. Taken together, our results shed light on the control of iron metabolism in bacteria and suggest that the oscillations represent a compromise between the requirements of stability and speed of response.
Identification and functional characterization of liposome tubulation protein from magnetotactic bacteria
Authors: Tanaka Masayoshi , Arakaki Atsushi , Matsunaga Tadashi 
Published: March 2010

SummaryMagnetotactic bacteria synthesize intracellular magnetosomes that are comprised of membrane‐enveloped magnetic crystals. In this study, to identify the early stages of magnetosome formation, we isolated magnetosomes containing small magnetite crystals and those containing regular‐sized magnetite crystals from Magnetospirillum magneticum AMB‐1. This was achieved by using a novel size fractionation technique, resulting in the identification of a characteristic protein (Amb1018/MamY) from the small magnetite crystal fraction. The gene encoding MamY was located in the magnetosome island. Like the previously reported membrane deformation proteins, such as bin/amphiphysin/Rvs (BAR) and the dynamin family proteins, recombinant MamY protein bound directly to the liposomes, causing them to form long tubules. We established a mamY gene deletion mutant (ΔmamY) and analysed MamY protein localization in it for functional characterization of the protein in vivo. The ΔmamY mutant was found to have expanded magnetosome vesicles and a greater number of small magnetite crystals relative to the wild‐type strain, suggesting that the function of the MamY protein is to constrict the magnetosome membrane during magnetosome vesicle formation, following which, the magnetite crystals grow to maturity within them.
Long‐term effect of rituximab in maintaining remission of recurrent and plasmapheresis‐dependent nephrotic syndrome post‐renal transplantation – Case report
Authors: Grenda Ryszard , Jarmużek Wioletta , Piątosa Barbara , Rubik Jacek 
Published: March 2010

Grenda R, Jarmużek W, Piątosa B, Rubik J. Long‐term effect of rituximab in maintaining remission of recurrent and plasmapheresis‐dependent nephrotic syndrome post‐renal transplantation – Case report. Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: E121–E125. © 2010 John Wiley & Sons A/S.Abstract:  Early recurrence of nephrotic syndrome after renal transplantation is a common serious adverse event in children with severe primary FSGS, affecting long‐term outcome. There is no consensus in terms of uniform management in these cases. We describe the long‐term effect of four unadjusted doses of 375 mg/m2 i.v. rituximab, given to a five and a half‐yr‐old, nephrectomized child with immediate recurrence of nephrotic syndrome post‐transplantation and dependency from repeated PF. Rituximab was introduced at three months post‐transplantation after performing 18 sessions of PF and development of established dependency of the disease from plasma exchange. Complete remission of proteinuria was achieved with four doses, and it was maintained during next eight months of follow‐up. Complete B CD19 cell depletion was observed during four months after final dose, followed by severe depletion after eight months. No side effects of therapy were noted. Patient was free from PF, which was stopped while introducing rituximab, remaining non‐proteinuric on triple immunosuppression (CsA, MMF, Pred).
Kin Recognition in the largely Solitary Bee, Manuelia postica (Apidae: Xylocopinae)
Authors: Flores‐Prado Luis , Niemeyer Hermann M. 
Published: March 2010

AbstractThe recognition of conspecifics is a central issue to social behaviour. In eusocial hymenopterans, kin recognition has been clearly demonstrated. Manuelia postica is a largely solitary bee species in which larvae develop inside individual cells within a nest and remain isolated from conspecifics until the destruction of partitions by adults. Nestmate recognition in M. postica has been previously demonstrated under experimental conditions. Isolation between individuals during development and nestmate recognition ability in adult females make M. postica an ideal species for testing the occurrence of kin recognition capacity in females. Kin recognition was demonstrated through cross‐fostering field experiments involving the single transfer of recently enclosed larvae, and subsequent laboratory recognition bioassays with emerging females. Results suggest kin recognition occurs through self‐referent phenotype matching. Given the basal position of Manuelia in the phylogeny of the Apidae, kin recognition may represent an ancestral recognition mechanism in Apidae species phylogenetically more derived than M. postica.
Dormouse injuries predispose beech to infection byNeonectria ditissima
Authors: Montecchio L. , Scattolin L. , De Battisti R. 
Published: March 2010

SummaryAfter awaking from winter hibernation, the Edible dormouse begins to feed by stripping the bark and the outer part of the xylem from the branches of both broadleaves and conifers. Natural or artificial wounds are essential for the penetration and colonisation of the tissues by the fungal pathogenNeonectria ditissima. This pathogen creates open cankers on beech branches and other broadleaves, which are frequently later infected by wood‐decaying fungi. Because of the high frequencies of both dormouse injuries and branch cankers in a large monospecific beech forest in northern Italy, field and laboratory investigations were conducted to verify whether rodent‐inflicted injuries on beech were a preferred infection point for the pathogen. These studies also examined the susceptibility to infection of the dormouse‐inflicted wounds over time, and the relationships between dormouse damage,Neonectriainfection, and wood decay. The results showed a significant direct correlation between the percentage of infections and their proximity to the wounds, indicating that the parasite localises to sites where there are receptive dormouse injuries. In addition, the susceptibility of the wound was found to diminish with increasing age, disappearing in 120–150 days. The association between dormouse injuries,Neonectriacankers and wood decay was also found to cause approximately half of the frequent beech branch breakages during intense weather events.
Occupational therapists as expert witnesses on work capacity
Authors: Allen Shelley , Ownsworth Tamara , Carlson Glenys , Strong Jenny 
Published: March 2010

Aim:  The aim of this study was to explore the particular challenges for occupational therapists during their cross‐examination as an expert witness on work capacity. Methods:  Grounded theory methodology was used to collect and analyse data. Interviews were conducted with 31 participants with direct experience of occupational therapy work capacity assessments. Of these, 19 were occupational therapists, six were medical specialists and six were lawyers. Results:  All participant groups perceived that maintaining one’s credibility in the witness box was of paramount importance. The occupational therapists identified 11 strategies that barristers may use to challenge their credibility as an expert witness. Conclusions:  The three professional groups proposed practices that maintain occupational therapists’ credibility as expert witnesses on the work capacity of personal injury claimants.
Implementing Clinical Practice Guidelines in occupational therapy practice: Recommendations from the research evidence
Authors: Stergiou‐Kita Mary 
Published: March 2010

Background: Clinical Practice Guidelines (CPGs) are prominent tools in evidence‐based practice which integrate research evidence, clinical expertise and client input to develop recommendations for specific clinical circumstance. With the push to use research evidence in health care, it is anticipated that occupational therapists will become increasingly involved in implementing CPGs in practice. The research evidence has revealed several factors that can affect guideline uptake, and a variety of strategies that can facilitate implementation.Methods: This narrative review examines the health‐related literature in CPGs to answer the following questions. Based on the research evidence, (i) what are the factors that may influence guideline implementation? (ii) What implementation strategies may enhance guideline implementation?Results: Factors within the guideline itself (e.g. quality, complexity and clarity), within the practitioner (e.g. experience, perceptions and beliefs), the patient (e.g. expectations and preferences) and the practice context (e.g. resource availability, organisational culture and opinion leaders) can all affect implementation success. Currently, there is no conclusive evidence to support the use of one implementation strategy over another, in all situations. The choice of implementation strategy must take into account the guideline to be implemented, the practice context and the anticipated challenges to implementation.Conclusions: By understanding the factors that can influence implementation and the strategies for successful implementation, occupational therapists will be better prepared to implement guidelines. Recommendations to assist with guideline uptake and implementation are provided.
Review: Neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin: A troponin‐like biomarker for human acute kidney injury
Authors: DEVARAJAN PRASAD 
Published: March 2010

ABSTRACTAcute kidney injury (AKI) is a common and serious condition, the diagnosis of which currently depends on functional markers such as serum creatinine measurements. Unfortunately, creatinine is a delayed and unreliable indicator of AKI. The lack of early biomarkers of structural kidney injury (akin to troponin in acute myocardial injury) has hampered our ability to translate promising experimental therapies to human AKI. Fortunately, understanding the early stress response of the kidney to acute injuries has revealed a number of potential biomarkers. The discovery, translation and validation of neutrophil gelatinase‐associated lipocalin (NGAL), possibly the most promising novel AKI biomarker, is reviewed. NGAL is emerging as an excellent stand‐alone troponin‐like structural biomarker in the plasma and urine for the early diagnosis of AKI, and for the prediction of clinical outcomes such as dialysis requirement and mortality in several common clinical scenarios. The approach of using NGAL as a trigger to initiate and monitor therapies for AKI, and as a safety biomarker when using potentially nephrotoxic agents, is also promising. In addition, it is hoped that the use of sensitive and specific biomarkers such as NGAL as endpoints in clinical trials will result in a reduction in required sample sizes, and hence the cost incurred. Furthermore, predictive biomarkers like NGAL may play a critical role in expediting the drug development process. However, given the complexity of AKI, additional biomarkers (perhaps a panel of plasma and urinary biomarkers) may eventually need to be developed and validated for optimal progress to occur.
Why is adaptation prevented at ecological margins? New insights from individual‐based simulations
Authors: Bridle Jon R. , Polechová Jitka , Kawata Masakado , Butlin Roger K. 
Published: March 2010

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 485–494AbstractAll species are restricted in their distribution. Currently, ecological models can only explain such limits if patches vary in quality, leading to asymmetrical dispersal, or if genetic variation is too low at the margins for adaptation. However, population genetic models suggest that the increase in genetic variance resulting from dispersal should allow adaptation to almost any ecological gradient. Clearly therefore, these models miss something that prevents evolution in natural populations. We developed an individual‐based simulation to explore stochastic effects in these models. At high carrying capacities, our simulations largely agree with deterministic predictions. However, when carrying capacity is low, the population fails to establish for a wide range of parameter values where adaptation was expected from previous models. Stochastic or transient effects appear critical around the boundaries in parameter space between simulation behaviours. Dispersal, gradient steepness, and population density emerge as key factors determining adaptation on an ecological gradient.
Parasites lost – do invaders miss the boat or drown on arrival?
Authors: MacLeod Catriona J. , Paterson Adrian M. , Tompkins Daniel M. , Duncan Richard P. 
Published: March 2010

Ecology Letters(2010) 13: 516–527AbstractHost species that colonize new regions often lose parasite species. Using population arrival and establishment data for New Zealand’s introduced bird species and their ectoparasitic chewing lice species, we test the relative importance of different processes and mechanisms in causing parasite species loss. Few lice failed to arrive in New Zealand with their hosts due to being missed by chance in the sample of hosts from the original population (missing the boat). Rather, most lice were absent because their hosts or the parasite themselves failed to establish populations in their new environment. Given they arrived and their host established, parasite persistence was more strongly related to factors associated with transmission efficiency (number of host individuals introduced, host body size, host sociality and parasite suborder) than parasite propagule pressure and aggregation. Such insights into parasite success are invaluable to both understanding and managing their impact.
Calpain‐mediated down‐regulation of myelin‐associated glycoprotein in lysophosphatidic acid‐induced neuropathic pain
Authors: Xie Weijiao , Uchida Hitoshi , Nagai Jun , Ueda Mutsumi , Chun Jerold , Ueda Hiroshi 
Published: March 2010

J. Neurochem. (2010) 113, 1002–1011.AbstractLysophosphatidic acid receptor (LPA1) signaling initiates neuropathic pain through demyelination of the dorsal root (DR). Although LPA is found to cause down‐regulation of myelin proteins underlying demyelination, the detailed mechanism remains to be determined. In the present study, we found that a single intrathecal injection of LPA evoked a dose‐ and time‐dependent down‐regulation of myelin‐associated glycoprotein (MAG) in the DR through LPA1 receptor. A similar event was also observed in ex vivo DR cultures. Interestingly, LPA‐induced down‐regulation of MAG was significantly inhibited by calpain inhibitors (calpain inhibitor X, E‐64 and E‐64d) and LPA markedly induced calpain activation in the DR. The pre‐treatment with calpain inhibitors attenuated LPA‐induced neuropathic pain behaviors such as hyperalgesia and allodynia. Moreover, we found that sciatic nerve injury activates calpain activity in the DR in a LPA1 receptor‐dependent manner. The E‐64d treatments significantly blocked nerve injury‐induced MAG down‐regulation and neuropathic pain. However, there was no significant calpain activation in the DR by complete Freund’s adjuvant treatment, and E‐64d failed to show anti‐hyperalgesic effects in this inflammation model. The present study provides strong evidence that LPA‐induced calpain activation plays a crucial role in the manifestation of neuropathic pain through MAG down‐regulation in the DR.
Aging and disease: connections to sirtuins
Authors: Donmez Gizem , Guarente Leonard 
Published: March 2010

SummaryThe sirtuins are highly conserved NAD‐dependent deacetylases that were shown to regulate lifespan in lower organisms and affect diseases of aging in mammals, such as diabetes, cancer, and inflammation. Most relevant to the amelioration of disease, the SIR2 ortholog SIRT1 has been shown to deacetylate many important transcription factors to exert an overarching influence on numerous metabolic pathways. Here we discuss several diseases of aging for which SIRT1 has been recently shown to confer protection. These findings suggest that manipulating sirtuin activity pharmacologically may be a fruitful area to improve human health.
Identification of Rice Al‐responsive Genes by Semi‐quantitative Polymerase Chain Reaction using Sulfite Reductase as a Novel Endogenous Control
Authors: Zhang Jianjun , Yin Ying , Wang Yuqi , Peng Xinxiang 
Published: March 2010

Abstract Based on the evidence that Al resistance is an inducible process and rice is an Al‐resistant crop, identification of Al‐responsive genes from rice may help to further clone Al‐resistant genes in plants. Semi‐quantitative and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is widely applied in gene transcriptional analyses, particularly for those genes with low transcript abundance. Normalization with proper endogenous control (EC) genes is critical for these two approaches in terms of reliability and precision. We first noticed that the expression of several commonly‐used EC genes was depressed under Al stress, while sulfite reductase gene (SR) was stable throughout the Al treatment. The reliability of SR as an EC gene was further tested by analyzing the expression of a number of genes in response to Al challenge. Except for the consistent results obtained for the four previously‐identified genes, nine additional genes were newly defined as Al‐responsive in this study. Collectively, our results suggest that SR can be used as a novel EC gene for semi‐quantitative and real‐time PCR analysis of Al responsive genes, and that activated transport of silicon and stimulated metabolism of carotenoid and terpenoid could be involved in Al resistance in rice plants.