bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Histamine H1‐receptor antagonists inhibit nuclear factor‐kappaB and activator protein‐1 activities via H1‐receptor‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms
Authors: Roumestan C. , Henriquet C. , Gougat C. , Michel A. , Bichon F. , Portet K. , Jaffuel D. , Mathieu M. 
Published: May 2008

SummaryBackground
Histamine H1‐receptor antagonists are used to relieve the symptoms of an immediate allergic reaction. They have additional anti‐inflammatory effects that could result from an inhibition of the transcription factors activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB). The implication of the H1‐receptor in these effects is controversial. Diphenhydramine is a first‐generation H1‐receptor antagonist while mizolastine and desloratadine are second‐generation compounds. Mizolastine is also an inhibitor of 5‐lipoxygenase (5‐LO), an enzyme that has been involved in NF‐κB activation.Objective
We measured the ability of antihistamines to reverse histamine‐induced smooth muscle contraction, an effect that involves the H1‐receptor. We then investigated whether these drugs affect NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities in A549 lung epithelial cells, and whether this potential regulation involves H1‐receptor and 5‐LO.Methods
Muscle tone was measured on tracheal segments of guinea‐pigs. The H1‐receptor was overexpressed by transfection and detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence microscopy. NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities were assessed by reporter gene assays in cells overexpressing or not overexpressing the H1‐receptor. Production of regulated upon activation, normal T cell expressed andsecreted (RANTES), a chemokine whose expression is induced through NF‐κB, was measured using an immunoassay.Results
H1‐receptor antagonists reversed histamine‐induced contraction in a dose‐dependent manner. Induction of AP‐1 and NF‐κB activities by histamine and the down‐regulatory effect of antihistamines required overexpression of the H1‐receptor. In contrast, when tumour necrosis factor‐α and a phorbol ester were used to stimulate NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities, respectively, repression of these activities did not involve the H1‐receptor. Indeed, repression was triggered only by a subset of H1‐receptor antagonists and was not stronger after overexpression of the H1‐receptor. Mizolastine and desloratadine dose‐dependently decreased tumour necrosis factor‐α‐induced production of RANTES. Diphenhydramine, H2‐ and H3‐receptor antagonists as well as selective inhibitors of 5‐LO were ineffective in this assay.Conclusion
Repression of NF‐κB and AP‐1 activities by H1‐receptor antagonists involves H1‐receptor‐dependent and ‐independent mechanisms but not 5‐LO.
Consequences of a biogeomorphic regime shift for the hyporheic zone of a Sonoran Desert stream
Authors: HEFFERNAN JAMES B. , SPONSELLER RYAN A. , FISHER STUART G. 
Published: May 2008

Summary1. Feedbacks between vegetation and geomorphic processes can generate alternative stable states and other nonlinear behaviours in ecological systems, but the consequences of these biogeomorphic interactions for other ecosystem processes are poorly understood. In this study, we describe the changes in the hydrological, geomorphic and biogeochemical characteristics of the hyporheic zone of a Sonoran desert stream (Sycamore Creek, Arizona, U.S.A.) in response to a transition from an unvegetated gravel‐bed state to densely vegetated wetlands (ciénegas).2. A survey of the entire length of Sycamore Creek indicated that ciénegas occupied c. 18% of the stream, and were disproportionately represented in constrained canyons rather than wide, unconstrained valleys.3. Vegetated patches were characterized by low concentrations of dissolved oxygen (DO) and nitrate and high concentrations of carbon dioxide and methane in the hyporheic zone. In contrast to unvegetated areas, hyporheic DO in ciénegas exhibited no relationship with vertical hydraulic gradients.4. Increases in hyporheic DO following removal of vegetation by floods supports the hypothesis that these reduced conditions were the result of biogeochemical and geomorphic changes associated with vegetation establishment. In locations where vegetation persisted, hyporheic DO exhibited no response to flooding; in sections where vegetation was removed hyporheic DO closely tracked post‐flood increases in surface stream DO.5. Shallow sediments in vegetated patches were finer and more organic‐rich than in unvegetated patches, due to increased deposition during floods. Conservative tracer additions indicated that hydrological exchange between the surface stream and hyporheic zone was much lower in ciénegas than in gravel‐bed reaches.6. Vegetation establishment in desert streams not only alters the physical and chemical characteristics of the hyporheic zone, but also the nature of interactions between surface and hyporheic subsystems.
General empirical models for predicting the release of nutrients by fish, with a comparison between detritivores and non‐detritivores
Authors: SEREDA JEFF M. , HUDSON JEFF J. , MCLOUGHLIN PHILIP D. 
Published: May 2008

Summary1. We derived models of nutrient release [nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P)] by fish based on studies that directly measured the release rates from 56 species across a broad range of fish mass, feeding histories and temperature.2. We developed four separate models of nutrient release from multiple regression analysis: detritivore release rates of N and P, and non‐detritivore release rates of N and P.3. Fish mass explained most of the variance (78–92%) in release rates.4. Our predicted rates of release of P by fish (g ha−1 day−1) were similar to observed rates in the literature from other lakes.5. The influence of a shift in diet (planktivory to detritivory) by a single species (gizzard shad, Dorosoma cepedianum, a facultative detritivore) on nutrient release rates was estimated. During periods of detritivory, gizzard shad accounted for on average 39% (<1–96%) of all nutrients released by the fish assemblage, and increased total fish assemblage release rates on average by 59% (<1–331%) compared to when gizzard shad were modelled as planktivores.6. These models provide a rapid means for predicting the release of nutrients by fish assemblages and may facilitate more comprehensive comparisons of nutrient cycling by fish with other internal pathways.
Changes in functional properties of shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) cartilage gelatin produced by different drying methods
Authors: Kwak Ki‐Seok , Cho Seung‐Mock , Ji Cheong‐Il , Lee Yang‐Bong , Kim Seon‐Bong 
Published: May 2008

SummaryFish gelatins extracted from shark (Isurus oxyrinchus) cartilage were dried by three different methods: freeze drying, hot‐air drying and spray drying; and their functional properties were investigated. Freeze‐dried gelatin was found to have the strongest gel strength, while gelatins made at high temperatures formed weaker gels. The 135‐kPa gel strength of freeze‐dried gelatin was relatively high. While foam formation ability of the freeze‐dried gelatin was the highest, its foam stability was the lowest. In addition, spray‐dried gelatin had the best emulsion capacities. Dynamic viscoelastic properties of shark cartilage gelatins prepared by these drying methods were closely correlated with their gel strength. Elasticity modulus (G’; Pa) and loss modulus (G”; Pa) of the freeze‐dried gelatin had higher values than those prepared by hot‐air drying and spray drying; viscoelastic properties of the freeze‐dried gelatin were maintained longer than those of other drying methods.
Enhanced β‐galactosidase production by supplementing whey with cauliflower waste
Authors: Oberoi Harinder Singh , Bansal Sunil , Dhillon Gurpreet Singh 
Published: May 2008

SummaryAmong the five Kluyveromyces marxianus strains tested for β‐galactosidase production, K. marxianus NCIM 3465 showed maximum enzyme activity of 1.62 IU mg−1 dry weight. Different levels (5–25%, w/v) of dried cauliflower waste were incorporated into whey to evaluate the effect of its supplementation on enzyme production. Although a marginal increase in enzyme production was seen by incorporating 5% and 10% cauliflower waste in whey, nearly 15% increase in β‐galactosidase production was observed when cauliflower waste level was increased to 20% compared with whey alone. Supplementing whey with 20% cauliflower waste also decreased the production time. Lactose concentration in whey, mainly responsible for increasing the biological oxygen demand load of the effluent water, decreased from 4.2% to nearly 0% at 24 h. Thus, this study demonstrated that both these by‐products/residues could be effectively used for β‐galactosidase production at commercial scale.
The middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital
Authors: Covell Christine L. 
Published: May 2008

AbstractTitle.  The middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital Aim.  This paper is a report of the development of the middle‐range theory of nursing intellectual capital.Background.  Rising healthcare costs and advances in technology have contributed to the need for better understanding of the influence of nurses’ knowledge, skills and experience on patient and organizational outcomes.Method.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory was developed using the strategies of concept and theory derivation. The principles of research synthesis were used to provide empirical support for the propositions of the theory.Findings.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory was derived from intellectual capital theory to make it relevant and applicable to a specific aspect of nursing, continuing professional development. It proposes that the nursing knowledge available in healthcare organizations is influenced by variables within the work environment, and influences patient and organizational outcomes.Conclusion.  The middle‐range nursing intellectual capital theory should be tested in different healthcare systems and in different settings and countries to determine its effectiveness in guiding research.
Benefits of nurse prescribing for patients in pain: nurses’ views
Authors: Stenner Karen , Courtenay Molly 
Published: May 2008

AbstractTitle.  Benefits of nurse prescribing for patients in pain: nurses’ views. Aim  This paper is a report of a study to explore nurses’ views on the benefits of adopting the role of prescribing for patients with acute and chronic pain.Background.  It was envisioned that the advent of nurse prescribing would be beneficial to the efficiency and effectiveness of the United Kingdom National Health Service. Research to date does indeed indicate that nurse prescribing can be beneficial to patients, nurses and the health service in general. Despite the expansion of nurse prescribing, there is little evidence of its impact according to nurses working in specialist areas, such as with patients in acute and chronic pain.Method.  Interviews were conducted during 2006 and 2007 with 26 nurses qualified to prescribe medicines for patients in acute and chronic pain. This was a qualitative study and a thematic analysis was conducted.Findings.  Nurses reported a number of benefits, including faster access to treatment, improved quality of care, more appropriate prescribing of medication, improved safety, improved relations and communication with patients, greater efficiency and cost effectiveness. Nurses benefited from increased job satisfaction, credibility with patients and healthcare professionals and also gained knowledge through prescribing.Conclusion.  There is potential for the benefits of nurse prescribing to be expanded beyond the United Kingdom in settings where nurses hold similar roles in the treatment of pain, although further research using a wider range of research methods is recommended to substantiate these findings.
Decision‐making about artificial feeding in end‐of‐life care: literature review
Authors: Bryon Els , Gastmans Chris , De Casterlé Bernadette Dierckx 
Published: May 2008

AbstractTitle.  Decision‐making about artificial feeding in end‐of‐life care: literature review. Aim.  This paper is a report of a review of nurses’ roles and their perceptions of these roles in decision‐making processes surrounding artificial food and fluid administration in adult patients.Background.  Of all caregivers, nurses have the closest and most trusting relationship with severely ill patients and their families during the entire end‐of‐life care process. As a result, nurses become closely involved in complex ethical decision‐making processes concerning artificial administration of food or fluids for these patients.Data sources.  We searched seven electronic databases (1990–2007) and examined the reference lists of relevant papers.Review methods.  This mixed methods review was conducted with guidance of the United Kingdom Centre for Reviews and Dissemination guidelines on systematic reviews.Results.  Although their direct impact is limited, nurses play a significant indirect role during decision‐making processes. Because of their unique position, they often initiate decision‐making processes, function as patient advocates and provide guidance, information and support to patients and families. Although nurses considered their role to be very valuable, they felt that their role was not always defined clearly or appreciated. Whether nurses experience decision‐making processes positively depended on several contextual factors.Conclusion.  Given their knowledge and practice skills, nurses are in a prime position to contribute valuably to decision‐making processes. Nevertheless, they remain sidelined. For nurses to receive sufficient recognition, their decision‐making tasks and responsibilities need to be clarified and made manifest to other participants.
Experiences of nurses working in a stroke rehabilitation unit
Authors: Barreca Susan , Wilkins Seanne 
Published: May 2008

AbstractTitle.  Experiences of nurses working in a stroke rehabilitation unit. Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore the perceptions, beliefs and feelings of a group of nurses who provided care to individuals admitted to a stroke rehabilitation unit.Background.  Following a stroke, survivors should ideally be referred to multidisciplinary inpatient rehabilitation programmes, which attain better outcomes compared to the care provided on general medical wards. However, to achieve these outcomes, team members must work closely together. Communication problems have been reported in these teams, and other members may consider that nurses do not practise functional activities with patients.Methods.  An interpretive phenomenological approach was adopted. Eight nurses in one Canadian stroke rehabilitation unit were interviewed during 2004–2005 about their experiences of providing care to stroke survivors.Findings.  The nurses enjoyed giving this type of care, feeling that their role was pivotal to the rehabilitation process. At times, they found it difficult to let patients struggle to complete their activities of daily living. The nurses felt that lack of resources, including time, contributed to stroke survivors being short‐changed in their rehabilitation nursing care. Despite holding strong views that others devalued their role within the stroke team, the nurses retained positive attitudes.Conclusion.  Stroke teams need to recognize the constraints nurses experience in fulfilling their stroke rehabilitation role in order to foster the collegial support that could contribute to a more interactive and respectful work environment. They also need to consider ways to increase the job satisfaction of nurses working in stroke rehabilitation settings.
The experience of being a shift‐leader in a hospital ward
Authors: Goldblatt Hadass , Granot Michal , Admi Hanna , Drach‐Zahavy Anat 
Published: May 2008

AbstractTitle.  The experience of being a shift‐leader in a hospital ward. Aim.  This paper is a report of a study to explore the experience of being a shift‐leader, and how these nurses view the management of their shift.Background.  Professional demands on skilled and capable shift‐leaders, who competently handle multi‐disciplinary staff and patients, as well as operations and information, call for the development of efficient nursing leadership roles. Nevertheless, knowledge of shift‐leaders’ perspectives concerning their task management and leadership styles is relatively limited.Method.  Twenty‐eight Registered Nurses working in an Israeli medical centre participated in this qualitative study. Data were gathered through in‐depth interviews conducted in two phases between February and October 2005: three focus group interviews (phase 1) followed by seven individual interviews (phase 2).Findings.  Content analysis revealed two major themes which constitute the essence of being a shift‐leader: (1) a burden of responsibility, where the shift‐leader moves between positions of maximum control and delegating some responsibility to other nurses; (2) the role’s temporal dimension, expressed as a strong desire to reach the end of the shift safely, and taking managerial perspectives beyond the boundaries of the specific shift. The core of the shift‐leader’s position is an immense sense of responsibility. However, this managerial role is transient and therefore lacks an established authority.Conclusion.  A two‐dimensional taxonomy of these themes reveals four types of potential and actual coping among shift‐leaders, indicating the need to train them in leadership skills and systemic thinking. Interventions to limit the potential stress hazards should be focused simultaneously on shift‐leaders themselves and on job restructuring.
What limits predation rates by the specialist seed‐feeder Penthobruchus germaini on an invasive shrub?
Authors: Van Klinken Rieks D. , Flack Lloyd K. 
Published: May 2008

Summary

Specialist seed‐feeders are widely used in weed biological control, but seed predation rates are frequently insufficient to cause the required impacts. Understanding the underlying reasons is prerequisite to predicting efficacy.
We conducted continental‐scale surveys of an introduced, multi‐voltine seed‐feeder [Bruchidae: Penthobruchus germaini (Pic.)] on an invasive legume (Caesalpinaceae: Parkinsonia aculeata L.). We tested three hypotheses as to what limits seed predation; namely, seed escape through egg aggregation, mortality of immature beetle stages, and failure to track temporal fluctuations in resource availability. We also tested how these factors interacted with the environment and each other.
Mean seed predation was relatively low (2–30%), despite mean egg densities of between 0·55 and 3·2 eggs per seed. Eggs were slightly aggregated (negative binomial, k = 1·87). Unexplained egg mortality (6–44%), egg parasitism (10–70%) and larval/pupal mortality (62%) were high, but egg parasitism was the only mortality factor that was density‐dependent and that varied across climatic regions. Egg densities responded poorly to rapid within‐season increases in seed availability.
All examined factors dampened seed predation rates. However, we developed a deterministic mathematical model which showed that seed predation would still have been relatively low (5–56%) at the observed egg densities, even without direct effects of immature beetle mortality. Also, to achieve a benchmark seed predation rate of 80%, egg densities would need to be over 8·5 eggs per seed with no parasitism, and an unrealistically high 27·8 at 70% parasitism. Available data suggest that seed predation by specialist seed‐feeders will often be constrained by one or more of the factors we identified.
Synthesis and applications. Selecting effective biological control agents is an important challenge for weed biocontrol. Our results suggest that many seed‐feeders will not regulate plant populations, but that predictions of their efficacy can be greatly improved by quantifying the way eggs are distributed across seeds and the various mortality factors that affect immature beetle stages. The ability of seed‐feeders to track resource fluctuations may also be predictable. For example, multi‐voltine insects appear better at tracking between‐season and between‐site variation in resource availability than sharp changes in within‐season availability.
Modelling vascular plant diversity at the landscape scale using systematic samples
Authors: Wohlgemuth Thomas , Nobis Michael P. , Kienast Felix , Plattner Matthias 
Published: May 2008

AbstractAim  We predict fine‐scale species richness patterns at large spatial extents by linking a systematic sample of vascular plants with a multitude of independent environmental descriptors.Location  Switzerland, covering 41,244 km2 in central Europe.Methods  Vascular plant species data were collected along transects of 2500‐m length within 1‐km2 quadrats on a systematic national grid (n = 354), using a standardized assessment method. Generalized linear models (GLM) were used to correlate species richness of vascular plants per transect (SRt) with three sets of variables: topography, environment and land cover. Regression models were constructed by the following process: reduction of collinearity among variables, model selection based on Akaike’s information criterion (AIC), and the percentage of deviance explained (D2). A synthetic model was then built using the best variables from all three sets of variables. Finally, the best models were used in a predictive mode to generate maps of species richness (SRt) at the landscape scale using the moving window approach based on 1‐km2 moving windows with a resolution of 1 ha.Results  The best explanatory model consisted of seven variables including 14 linear and quadratic parameters, and explained 74% of the deviance (D2 = 0.742). Used in a predictive mode, the model generated maps with distinctive horizontal belts of highest species richness at intermediate altitudes along valley slopes. Belts of higher richness were also present along rivers and around large forest patches and larger villages, as well as on mountains.Main conclusions  The approach involved using consistent samples of species linked to information on the environment at a fine scale enabled landscapes to be compared in terms of predicted species richness. The results can therefore be applied to support the development of national nature conservation strategies. At the landscape scale, belts of high species richness correspond to steep environmental gradients and associated increases in local habitat diversity. In the mountains, the belts of increased species richness are at intermediate altitudes. These general belt‐like patterns at mid‐elevation are found in all model parameterizations. Other patterns, such as belts along rivers, are visible in specific parameterizations only. Thus we recommend using several sets of parameters in such modelling studies in order to capture the underlying spatial complexity of biodiversity.