bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Climatic and technological ceilings for Chinese rice stagnation based on yield gaps and yield trend pattern analysis
Authors: Zhang Tianyi , Yang Xiaoguang , Wang Hesong , Li Yong , Ye Qing
Published: October 2013

Climatic or technological ceilings could cause yield stagnation. Thus, identifying the principal reasons for yield stagnation within the context of the local climate and socio‐economic conditions are essential for informing regional agricultural policies. In this study, we identified the climatic and technological ceilings for seven rice‐production regions in China based on yield gaps and on a yield trend pattern analysis for the period 1980–2010. The results indicate that 54.9% of the counties sampled experienced yield stagnation since the 1980. The potential yield ceilings in northern and eastern China decreased to a greater extent than in other regions due to the accompanying climate effects of increases in temperature and decreases in radiation. This may be associated with yield stagnation and halt occurring in approximately 49.8–57.0% of the sampled counties in these areas. South‐western China exhibited a promising scope for yield improvement, showing the greatest yield gap (30.6%), whereas the yields were stagnant in 58.4% of the sampled counties. This finding suggests that efforts to overcome the technological ceiling must be given priority so that the available exploitable yield gap can be achieved. North‐eastern China, however, represents a noteworthy exception. In the north‐central area of this region, climate change has increased the yield potential ceiling, and this increase has been accompanied by the most rapid increase in actual yield: 1.02 ton ha−1 per decade. Therefore, north‐eastern China shows a great potential for rice production, which is favoured by the current climate conditions and available technology level. Additional environmentally friendly economic incentives might be considered in this region.
Dental pulp stem cells immobilized in alginate microspheres for applications in bone tissue engineering
Authors: Kanafi M. M. , Ramesh A. , Gupta P. K. , Bhonde R. R.
Published: October 2013

Aim

To immobilize dental pulp stem cells (DPSC) in alginate microspheres and to determine cell viability, proliferation, stem cell characteristics and osteogenic potential of the immobilized DPSCs.

Methodology

Human DPSCs isolated from the dental pulp were immobilized in 1% w/v alginate microspheres. Viability and proliferation of immobilized DPSCs were determined by trypan blue and MTT assay, respectively. Stem cell characteristics of DPSCs post immobilization were verified by labelling the cells with CD73 and CD90. Osteogenic potential of immobilized DPSCs was assessed by the presence of osteocalcin. Alizarin red staining and O‐cresolphthalein complexone method confirmed and quantified calcium deposition. A final reverse transcriptase PCR evaluated the expression of osteogenic markers – ALP, Runx‐2 and OCN.

Results

More than 80% of immobilized DPSCs were viable throughout the 3‐week study. Proliferation appeared controlled and consistent unlike DPSCs in the control group. Presence of CD73 and CD90 markers confirmed the stem cell nature of immobilized DPSCs. The presence of osteocalcin, an osteoblastic marker, was confirmed in the microspheres on day 21. Mineralization assays showed high calcium deposition indicating elevated osteogenic potential of immobilized DPSCs. Osteogenic genes‐ ALP, Runx‐2 and OCN were also upregulated in immobilized DPSCs. Surprisingly, immobilized DPSCs in the control group cultured in conventional stem cell media showed upregulation of osteogenic genes and expressed osteocalcin.

Conclusion

Dental pulp stem cells immobilized in alginate hydrogels exhibit enhanced osteogenic potential while maintaining high cell viability both of which are fundamental for bone tissue regeneration.
Gemcitabine sensitizes lung cancer cells to Fas/FasL system‐mediated killing
Authors: Siena Liboria , Pace Elisabetta , Ferraro Maria , Di Sano Caterina , Melis Mario , Profita Mirella , Spatafora Mario , Gjomarkaj Mark
Published: October 2013

Gemcitabine is a chemotherapy agent commonly used in the treatment of non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) that has been demonstrated to induce apoptosis in NSCLC cells by increasing functionally active Fas expression. The aim of this study was to evaluate the Fas/Fas ligand (FasL) system involvement in gemcitabine‐induced lung cancer cell killing. NSCLC H292 cells were cultured in the presence or absence of gemcitabine. FasL mRNA and protein were evaluated by real‐time PCR, and by Western blot and flow cytometry, respectively. Apoptosis of FasL‐expressing cells was evaluated by flow cytometry, and caspase‐8 and caspase‐3 activation by Western blot and a colorimetric assay. Cytotoxicity of lymphokine‐activated killer (LAK) cells and malignant pleural fluid lymphocytes against H292 cells was analysed in the presence or absence of the neutralizing anti‐Fas ZB4 antibody, by flow cytometry. Gemcitabine increased FasL mRNA and total protein expression, the percentage of H292 cells bearing membrane‐bound FasL (mFasL) and of mFasL‐positive apoptotic H292 cells, as well as caspase‐8 and caspase‐3 cleavage. Moreover, gemcitabine increased CH11‐induced caspase‐8 and caspase‐3 cleavage and proteolytic activity. Cytotoxicity of LAK cells and pleural fluid lymphocytes was increased against gemcitabine‐treated H292 cells and was partially inhibited by ZB4 antibody. These results demonstrate that gemcitabine: (i) induces up‐regulation of FasL in lung cancer cells triggering cell apoptosis via an autocrine/paracrine loop; (ii) induces a Fas‐dependent apoptosis mediated by caspase‐8 and caspase‐3 activation; (iii) enhances the sensitivity of lung cancer cells to cytotoxic activity of LAK cells and malignant pleural fluid lymphocytes, partially via Fas/FasL pathway. Our data strongly suggest an active involvement of the Fas/FasL system in gemcitabine‐induced lung cancer cell killing.
Protective effect of intranasal immunization with Neospora caninum membrane antigens against murine neosporosis established through the gastrointestinal tract
Authors: Ferreirinha Pedro , Dias Joana , Correia Alexandra , Pérez‐Cabezas Begoña , Santos Carlos , Teixeira Luzia , Ribeiro Adília , Rocha António , Vilanova Manuel
Published: October 2013

Neospora caninum is an Apicomplexa parasite that in the last two decades was acknowledged as the main pathogenic agent responsible for economic losses in the cattle industry. In the present study, the effectiveness of intranasal immunization with N. caninum membrane antigens plus CpG adjuvant was assessed in a murine model of intragastrically established neosporosis. Immunized mice presented a lower parasitic burden in the brain on infection with 5 × 107 tachyzoites, showing that significant protection was achieved by this immunization strategy. Intestinal IgA antibodies raised by immunization markedly agglutinated live N. caninum tachyzoites whereas previous opsonization with IgG antibodies purified from immunized mice sera reduced parasite survival within macrophage cells. Although an IgG1 : IgG2a ratio < 1 was detected in the immunized mice before and after infection, indicative of a predominant T helper type 1 immune response, no increased production of interferon‐γ was detected in the spleen or mesenteric lymph nodes of the immunized mice. Altogether, these results show that mucosal immunization with N. caninum membrane proteins plus CpG adjuvant protect against intragastrically established neosporosis and indicate that parasite‐specific mucosal and circulating antibodies have a protective role against this parasitic infection.
Acute Middle Cerebral Artery Occlusion: Reappraisal of the Role of Endovascular Revascularization
Authors: Cohen José E.
Published: October 2013

Intravenous tissue plasminogen activator was the first successful stroke therapy in acute ischaemic stroke, after innumerable failed attempts at neuroprotection and neurorestoration. However, intravenous tissue type plasminogen activator has been shown to be effective in recanalizing middle cerebral artery occlusions in only about one-third of cases. The natural history of untreated acute middle cerebral artery occlusion is poor, leading to long-term disability in >70% and mortality in 20%. Recanalization alone is not the name of the game. Only timely, very rapid recanalization, achieved within minutes or at most a few hours after stroke has occurred, before irreversible brain damage develops, is effective. Is intravenous tissue type plasminogen activator the best available option we have for these patients? With recently introduced stent-based thrombectomy devices, neurointerventionalists have achieved complete recanalization rates of more than 90% in middle cerebral artery and ‘T’ occlusions, with a mean procedural recanalization time of less than one-hour and negligible complication rates. More than 80% of patients less than 80 years of age who were treated within eight-hours after stroke onset in our centre achieved a modified Rankin score of 0–2 at three-month follow-up. The site of arterial occlusion is a factor driving the choice between a standard intravenous tissue type plasminogen activator protocol and an alternative intervention such as intravenous and/or mechanical thrombolysis to achieve early recanalization. The role of intravenous tissue type plasminogen activator must be redefined in major occlusions, and the indications for endovascular therapy must also be reappraised.
Foliar indumentum in central‐European Rubus species (Rosaceae) and its contribution to the systematics of the group
Authors: Tomaszewski Dominik , Zieliński Jerzy , Gawlak Magdalena
Published: October 2013

The foliar indumentum of 94 taxa of Rubus has been surveyed by scanning electron microscopy. The analysed species belonged to five subgenera. Rubus subgen. Rubus with its three sections and 21 series was the most numerously represented. In all studied species, indumentum was present, but the species differed more or less from each other with respect to the density of the indumentum on the abaxial leaf surface. Three main hair types were present: simple eglandular (unbranched) trichomes, branched eglandular trichomes, and very short secretory uni‐seriate trichomes; subtypes were distinguished according to trichome size. Apart from investigating separate traits, we described character patterns for the best represented and homogeneous series: Discolores, Subthyrsoidei, Rhamnifolii and Rubus. Other large groups (Sylvatici, Glandulosi and Micantes) were more diverse.
The Two‐Tier Bargaining Model Revisited: Theory and Evidence from China's Natural Resource Investments in Africa
Authors: Li Jing , Newenham‐Kahindi Aloysius , Shapiro Daniel M. , Chen Victor Z.
Published: October 2013

In recent years, foreign direct investment (FDI) in natural resource industries by Chinese firms in Africa has increased rapidly. The strategic importance of the natural resource sector to host country governments produces considerable bargaining over entry and operating terms, with attendant political risks. Using case studies in Tanzania, we find that the Chinese government and firms engage in a bargaining model different from traditional models. Specifically, they engage in a modified one‐tier bargaining model in which the Chinese government represents the collective interests of Chinese natural resource firms to negotiate with the host country government. In exchange for investment deals in the natural resource sector, the Chinese government offers a package with loans that support multiple‐purpose development projects in various sectors, with a focus on infrastructure. Chinese firms act as a group to fulfill the Chinese government's commitments to the host country government. We discuss the boundary conditions for this Chinese‐style bargaining model and its relationship to political risk. We conclude that the Chinese model has unique elements, although they are likely limited to resource investments in developing countries.
3D Simulation of Borosilicate Glass All‐Electric Melting Furnaces
Authors: Li Hailong , Xing Zhibin , Xu Shiqing , Liu Shimin
Published: October 2013

Two all‐electric melting furnaces, 15t/d and 36t/d, were simulated and analyzed with the ANSYS FLUENT 14.0 software add‐on MHD module. The electric power density distribution, temperature distribution, and velocity field in the glass furnaces of these two models were analyzed. Electric power density and temperature are found to increase initially and then decrease from the center of the furnace to the side wall in a horizontal direction. Similar trend is observed from top to bottom in a vertical direction. The temperature distribution causes the internal and external circulations in the all‐electric melting furnaces. An unstable connectivity relation is proven to exist between the external circulation flow and the dog‐hole of the 15t/d all‐electric melting furnace. Experimental evidence of the relation is presented from the annular strip images of the corresponding glass pipe product samples. Our analysis revealed several design flaws in the working condition of the two types of furnaces. The simulation results of the two models were compared.
The Low‐Temperature Cosintering of Cobalt Ferrite and Lead Zirconate Titanate Ceramic Composites
Authors: Jenus Petra , Lisjak Darja , Kuscer Danjela , Makovec Darko , Drofenik Miha
Published: October 2013

Magneto‐electric (ME) ceramic composites of cobalt ferrite (CoF) and lead zirconate titanate (PZT) were prepared by mechanical mixing of the constituent powders followed by cosintering. The cosintering conditions for nano‐sized CoF and submicrometer‐sized PZT powders were studied in detail. It was found that the CoF powder needs to be presintered at 700°C for 2 h to minimize the differences in the sintering kinetics of the constituent powders. Despite the low cosintering temperatures (900°C–1000°C) the interdiffusion of the cations from both phases was confirmed with energy‐dispersive X‐ray analysis and X‐ray diffraction. Efforts were made to optimize the cosintering conditions to prepare dense ceramic ME composites, which showed the converse ME effect.
Different neurodevelopmental symptoms have a common genetic etiology
Authors: Pettersson Erik , Anckarsäter Henrik , Gillberg Christopher , Lichtenstein Paul
Published: October 2013

Background

Although neurodevelopmental disorders are demarcated as discrete entities in the Diagnostic Statistical Manual of mental disorders, empirical evidence indicates that there is a high degree of overlap among them. The first aim of this investigation was to explore if a single general factor could account for the large degree of observed overlap among neurodevelopmental problems, and explore whether this potential factor was primarily genetic or environmental in origin. The second aim was to explore whether there was systematic covariation, either genetic or environmental, over and above that contributed by the potential general factor, unique to each syndrome.

Method

Parents of all Swedish 9‐ and 12‐year‐old twin pairs born between 1992 and 2002 were targeted for interview regarding problems typical of autism spectrum disorders, ADHD and other neurodevelopmental conditions (response rate: 80 percent). Structural equation modeling was conducted on 6,595 pairs to examine the genetic and environmental structure of 53 neurodevelopmental problems.

Results

One general genetic factor accounted for a large proportion of the phenotypic covariation among the 53 symptoms. Three specific genetic subfactors identified ‘impulsivity,’ ‘learning problems,’ and ‘tics and autism,’ respectively. Three unique environment factors identified ‘autism,’ ‘hyperactivity and impulsivity,’ and ‘inattention and learning problems,’ respectively.

Conclusion

One general genetic factor was responsible for the wide‐spread phenotypic overlap among all neurodevelopmental symptoms, highlighting the importance of addressing broad patient needs rather than specific diagnoses. The unique genetic factors may help guide diagnostic nomenclature, whereas the unique environmental factors may highlight that neurodevelopmental symptoms are responsive to change at the individual level and may provide clues into different mechanisms and treatments. Future research would benefit from assessing the general factor separately from specific factors to better understand observed overlap among neurodevelopmental problems.
Multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis of Edwardsiella piscicida isolates pathogenic to fish
Authors: Abayneh T , Colquhoun D J , Austin D , Sørum H
Published: October 2013

This study describes a novel multilocus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) based on six variable number of tandem repeat (VNTR) loci for genotyping of 37 Edwardsiella piscicida (previously Edwardsiella tarda) isolates from multiple sources. The number of alleles identified for each of the six VNTR loci ranged from 3 to 5 with VNTR loci 1 (DI = 0.632) and 3 (DI = 0.644), displaying the highest degrees of polymorphism. MLVA typing of the 37 E. piscicida isolates resulted in the identification of five major clusters consistent with their geographical origins, and were designated as MLVA types I, II, III, IV and V. Types III and V were resolved further into subtypes largely consistent with outbreak source. An MLVA profile comprising a string of integers representing the number of tandem repeats for each allele provided a unique identification for each MLVA type and/or strain. The MLVA protocol described in the current study is robust, relatively simple, has a higher power of resolution than multilocus sequence analysis (MLSA) and is capable of discriminating closely related isolates.
Comparison of pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus PCR and biochemical tests to characterize Lactococcus garvieae
Authors: Ture M , Altinok I , Capkin E
Published: October 2013

Biochemical test, pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) and enterobacterial repetitive intergenic consensus sequence PCR (ERIC‐PCR) were used to compare 42 strains of Lactococcus garvieae isolated from different regions of Turkey, Italy, France and Spain. Twenty biotypes of L. garvieae were formed based on 54 biochemical tests. ERIC‐PCR of genomic DNA from different L. garvieae strains resulted in amplification of multiple fragments of DNA in sizes ranging between 200 and 5000 bp with various band intensities. After cutting DNA with ApaI restriction enzyme and running on the PFGE, 11–22 resolvable bands ranging from 2 to 194 kb were observed. Turkish isolates were grouped into two clusters, and only A58 (Italy) strain was connected with Turkish isolates. Similarities between Turkish, Spanish, Italian and French isolates were <50% except 216‐6 Rize strain. In Turkey, first lactococcosis occurred in Mugla, and then, it has been spread all over the country. Based on ERIC‐PCR, Spanish and Italian strains of L. garvieae were related to Mugla strains. Therefore, after comparing PFGE profiles, ERIC‐PCR profiles and phenotypic characteristics of 42 strains of L. garvieae, there were no relationships found between these three typing methods. PFGE method was more discriminative than the other methods.
Effect of multiple infections with white spot syndrome virus and Vibrio anguillarum on Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (L.): mortality and viral replication
Authors: Jang I K , Qiao G , Kim S‐K
Published: October 2013

Multiple infections are commonly found in practical shrimp culture and may cause more serious consequences than infections by one pathogen only. Therefore, this study was conducted to evaluate the effect of multiple infections with white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) and Vibrio anguillarum on Pacific white shrimp Litopenaeus vannamei (L.), mortality, WSSV replication in vivo and host immune response. In the WSSV single‐infection group (WSSV load, 2 × 102 copies μL−1), mean cumulative mortality was 29.2%. In the V. anguillarum single‐infection group, cumulative mortality was 12.5% when shrimp were challenged by 105 CFU mL−1 of bacteria. In the co‐ and super‐infection groups, 37.5% and 50% cumulative mortalities, respectively, were observed at a lower bacterial concentration of 103 CFU mL−1, suggesting that shrimp with multiple infections died earlier and more frequently than singly infected shrimp. WSSV load after injection was tracked over time by TaqMan quantitative PCR. WSSV load increased more rapidly in the multiple‐infection groups than in the single‐infection group. Additionally, mRNA expression of the genes encoding prophenoloxidase 1 and 2, which are closely involved in innate immunity in shrimp, was down‐regulated more extensively in multiple‐infection groups than in single‐infection groups, as indicated by quantitative reverse‐transcription PCR.
Saccharification and Fermentation of Waste Sweet Potato for Bioethanol Production
Authors: Dewan Alim , Li Zheng , Han Binbing , Karim Muhammad Nazmul
Published: October 2013

We have investigated the relative performance of the two enzymes, α‐amylase and amyloglucosidase, and two microbial strains, Zymomonas mobilis AX101 and 8b, for saccharification and fermentation of sweet potato. Modified Michaelis–Menten and Monod‐type mathematical models were developed and verified with experimental results for saccharification using amyloglucosidase and fermentation using Z. mobilis 8b, respectively. The results showed that 91.5% of the starch and sucrose were converted to glucose and fructose using amyloglucosidase at pH 3.5 and 55C. The Z. mobilis 8b was able to convert more than 90% of the total sugars into ethanol within 18 h with 87.2% of the theoretical yield and 49.07 g/L final concentration of ethanol. A mass balance and cost analysis show that commercial production of ethanol from sweet potato is limited by the feedstock cost.

Practical Applications

This study shows that sweet potatoes that are unmarketable, small in size, bruised, cut or damaged otherwise from the harvesting process, supplied by a local farmer in the Central Texas area, can be used to produce bioethanol. Normally, farmers do not collect the damaged sweet potatoes because there is no demand for those in the market. This is supported by the fact that 20% of the total sweet potatoes cultivated are left in the ground due to damage while harvesting with plows. If collected and used for ethanol production, local farms can earn additional revenue.
When the body is past fixing: caring for bodies, caring for people
Authors: Melia Kath M
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To discuss the social context within which end‐of‐life nursing care takes place and to consider palliative options of last resort and the differences between societal and professional views on these.

Background

The distinction between life and death is not so straightforward as was once the case. Resuscitation and the increasing capability of intensive care to ‘save’ patients have implications for nursing practice in a society where there is an increasing demand that individuals should be able to choose the time of their death.

Methods

This is a discursive paper.

Conclusions

There are differences between the professional view on end‐of‐life options and the societal debates calling for a more libertarian approach. The problem for professionals is that the call for choice of the individual involves a different approach to end‐of‐life care, an approach that does not sit well with current professional ethics. One way forward might be a gradual reconsidering of what end‐of‐life care might reasonably encompass.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses are the healthcare workers who have the most prolonged and intimate contact with bodies. The way in which we conceptualise the body is central to much of the work carried out in the transition between life and death and is an important part of nursing.
The mediating effect of severity of client aggression on burnout between hospital inpatient and community residential staff who support adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Hensel Jennifer M , Lunsky Yona , Dewa Carolyn S
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To compare exposure to client aggressive behaviour, perceived self‐efficacy in managing this behaviour and burnout between community residential group home and specialised hospital inpatient staff who provide care for adults with intellectual disabilities (ID). To assess the mediating role of aggression exposure on burnout in these two staff groups.

Background

Aggressive behaviour is a common indication for admission to hospital so these staff typically experience more frequent and severe forms compared to staff working in the community. There have been mixed results in few studies examining burnout and perceived self‐efficacy between these two groups.

Design

This study used a demographically matched sample of cross‐sectional survey data from community residential group home and hospital staff who care for adults with ID in Ontario, Canada.

Methods

Exposure to aggression, perceived self‐efficacy and burnout were compared for 42 matched pairs using descriptive statistics. A mediation analysis was used to examine the role of aggression severity in the relationship between care setting and burnout.

Results

Hospital staff were exposed to more severe client aggression and scored higher in emotional exhaustion (EE). There were no differences in perceived self‐efficacy. Severity of aggression was a partial mediator of the higher EE among hospital staff.

Conclusions

Exposure to more severe forms of client aggression among hospital staff contributes, at least in part, to them feeling more emotionally exhausted. This study contributes to further understanding exposure to aggression in these different settings and the impact it can have on emotional outcomes.

Relevance to clinical practice

There may be a role for policy and resource development aimed at reducing aggression and preventing or managing the associated emotional consequences. This is particularly true in hospitals, where aggression is most severe.
Benefits of sensory garden and horticultural activities in dementia care: a modified scoping review
Authors: Gonzalez Marianne T , Kirkevold Marit
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To provide a review on the benefits associated with the use of sensory gardens and horticultural activities in dementia care.

Background

Maintaining quality of life is important in dementia care. Sensory gardens and horticultural activities are increasingly used in dementia care, yet their benefits are uncertain.

Design

A modified scoping review with descriptive analysis of selected empirical studies.

Methods

Systematic searches in Amed, CINAHL, MEDLINE, ISI Web of Science, Embase and Scopus were used. Search terms were the free‐text concepts ‘healing garden’, ‘horticultural therapy’, ‘restorative garden’ and ‘wander garden’ which were combined with dementia and Alzheimer.

Results

Sixteen studies were included with included participants ranging from eight to 129 participants. Research designs were case studies (n = 2), survey (n = 1), intervention studies with pretest/post‐test design (n = 11) and randomised controlled studies (n = 2). Of these 16 studies, eight examined the benefits of sensory gardens, seven examined horticultural therapy or therapeutic horticulture and one examined the use of plants indoors. This study offers a review of the research addressing benefits of sensory gardens, therapeutic horticulture, horticultural therapy and other purposeful use of plants in dementia care. The reported findings are mainly on issues related to behaviour, affect and well‐being. The findings are in general mutually supportive, however, with some contradictory findings. In addition, sleep pattern, well‐being and functional level seem to improve.

Conclusions

These types of nonpharmacological interventions may improve well‐being and affect and reduce the occurrence of disruptive behaviour. Additionally, the use of psychotropic drugs, incidents of serious falls, sleep and sleep pattern also seem to improve.

Relevance to clinical practice

To further improve the use of the existing or planned gardens, an educational programme for staff that also includes skill training is recommended.
Agency‐Communion and Interest in Prosocial Behavior: Social Motives for Assimilation and Contrast Explain Sociocultural Inconsistencies
Authors: Gebauer Jochen E. , Sedikides Constantine , Lüdtke Oliver , Neberich Wiebke
Published: October 2013

Identifying the “prosocial personality” is a classic project in personality psychology. However, personality traits have been elusive predictors of prosocial behavior, with personality‐prosociality relations varying widely across sociocultural contexts. We propose the social motives perspective to account for such sociocultural inconsistencies. According to this perspective, a focal quality of agency (e.g., competence, independence, openness) is the motive to swim against the social tide—agentic social contrast. Conversely, a focal quality of communion (e.g., warmth, interdependence, agreeableness) is the motive to swim with the social tide—communal social assimilation. We report two cross‐sectional studies. Study 1 (N = 131,562) defined social context at the country level (11 European countries), whereas Study 2 (N = 56,395) defined it at the country level (11 European countries) and the city level (296 cities within these countries). Communion predicted interest in prosocial behavior comparatively strongly in sociocultural contexts where such interest was common and comparatively weakly where such interest was uncommon. Agency predicted interest in prosocial behavior comparatively strongly in sociocultural contexts where such interest was uncommon and comparatively weakly where such interest was common. The results supported the social motives perspective. Also, the findings help to reestablish the importance of personality for understanding prosociality.
In Vivo Confocal Endomicroscopy of Small Intestinal Mucosal Morphology in Dogs
Authors: Sharman M.J. , Bacci B. , Whittem T. , Mansfield C.S.
Published: October 2013

Background

Confocal endomicroscopy (CEM) is an endoscopic technology that permits in vivo cellular and subcellular imaging of the gastrointestinal mucosa.

Objective

To determine the feasibility of CEM to evaluate small intestinal mucosal topologic morphology in dogs and to characterize the appearance in healthy dogs.

Animals

Fourteen clinically healthy research colony dogs.

Methods

Experimental study. Dogs were anesthetized for standard endoscopic evaluation of the small intestine followed by CEM. Two fluorophores were used to provide contrast: fluorescein (10% solution, 15 mg/kg IV) before administration of topical acriflavine (0.05% solution) via an endoscopy spray catheter. A minimum of 5 sites within the small intestine were assessed and at each location, sequential adjustment of imaging depth allowed collection of a three‐dimensional volume equivalent to an ‘optical biopsy’. CEM‐guided pinch biopsies were obtained for histologic examination.

Results

CEM provided high‐quality in vivo cellular and subcellular images. Intravenous administration of fluorescein provided sufficient contrast to allow assessment of the vasculature, cellular cytoplasmic features and goblet cell numbers, and distribution. Topical application of acriflavine preferentially stained cellular nucleic acids, allowing evaluation of nuclear morphology. Quality of captured images was occasionally affected by motion artifact, but improved with operator experience.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

CEM provides in vivo images that allow for cellular and subcellular assessment of intestinal mucosal morphology during endoscopy. This has implications for aiding in vivo diagnosis of gastrointestinal disease.
Short‐Term Hemodynamic and Neuroendocrine Effects of Pimobendan and Benazapril in Dogs with Myxomatous Mitral Valve Disease and Congestive Heart Failure
Authors: Häggström J. , Lord P.F. , Höglund K. , Ljungvall I. , Jöns O. , Kvart C. , Hansson K.
Published: October 2013

Background

Pimobendan and benazepril are frequently used with diuretics to treat dogs in congestive heart failure (CHF) caused by myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Aim

To compare the short‐term effects of pimobendan versus benazepril on pump function, heart size, and neuroendocrine profile in dogs withCHFcaused byMMVD.

Animals

Sixteen client‐owned dogs.

Material and methods

Seven‐day prospective single‐blinded study of dogs stabilized on furosemide monotherapy, randomized to pimobendan (0.4–0.6 mg/kg/day) or benazepril (0.25–1.0 mg/kg/day). Dogs had first‐pass radionuclide angiocardiography, and heart size was measured by radiography and echocardiography. Circulating neuroendocrine hormones were measured.

Results

Baseline variables did not differ between treatment groups. Greater decreases in the pimobendan than in the benazepril group were found for heart rate (P = .001), heart rate‐normalized pulmonary transit time (P = .02), left atrial size (P = .03), and systolic and diastolic left ventricular diameters (P < .001 andP = .03, respectively) and volumes (P < .001 andP = .02, respectively), whereas ejection fraction increased more (P = .02) in the pimobendan group. Of the neuroendocrine hormones, only N‐terminal proatrial natriuretic peptide (NT‐ProANP) differed (P = .04) between groups. Within groups, plasma aldosterone increased (P = .01), and NT‐proANP (P = .01) and NT‐proB‐type (P = .02) natriuretic peptide decreased in the pimobendan group, and NT‐proANP (P = .02) and plasma vasopressin (P = .01) decreased in the benazepril group.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Pimobendan improves short‐term cardiac function more than benazepril in dogs withCHFcaused byMMVD. Pimobendan treatment enables the heart to work at smaller end‐systolic and diastolic dimensions while maintaining adequate forward stroke volume. Some of the treatment responses found in neuroendocrine profile might have therapeutic relevance.
Trace element geochemistry of CR chondrite metal
Authors: Jacquet Emmanuel , Paulhiac‐Pison Marine , Alard Olivier , Kearsley Anton T. , Gounelle Matthieu
Published: October 2013

We report trace element analyses by laser ablation inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (LA‐ICP‐MS) of metal grains from nine different CR chondrites, distinguishing grains from chondrule interior (“interior grains”), chondrule surficial shells (“margin grains”), and the matrix (“isolated grains”). Save for a few anomalous grains, Ni‐normalized trace element patterns are similar for all three petrographic settings, with largely unfractionated refractory siderophile elements and depleted volatile Au, Cu, Ag, S. All three types of grains are interpreted to derive from a common precursor approximated by the least‐melted, fine‐grained objects in CR chondrites. This also excludes recondensation of metal vapor as the origin of the bulk of margin grains. The metal precursors were presumably formed by incomplete condensation, with evidence for high‐temperature isolation of refractory platinum‐group‐element (PGE)‐rich condensates before mixing with lower temperature PGE‐depleted condensates. The rounded shape of the Ni‐rich, interior grains shows that they were molten and that they equilibrated with silicates upon slow cooling (1–100 K h−1), largely by oxidation/evaporation of Fe, hence their high Pd content, for example. We propose that Ni‐poorer, amoeboid margin grains, often included in the pyroxene‐rich periphery common to type I chondrules, result from less intense processing of a rim accreted onto the chondrule subsequent to the melting event recorded by the interior grains. This means either that there were two separate heating events, which formed olivine/interior grains and pyroxene/margin grains, respectively, between which dust was accreted around the chondrule, or that there was a single high‐temperature event, of which the chondrule margin records a late “quenching phase,” in which case dust accreted onto chondrules while they were molten. In the latter case, high dust concentrations in the chondrule‐forming region (at least three orders of magnitude above minimum mass solar nebula models) are indicated.
Drivers of population genetic differentiation in the wild: isolation by dispersal limitation, isolation by adaptation and isolation by colonization
Authors: Orsini Luisa , Vanoverbeke Joost , Swillen Ine , Mergeay Joachim , De Meester Luc
Published: October 2013

Empirical population genetic studies have been dominated by a neutralist view, according to which gene flow and drift are the main forces driving population genetic structure in nature. The neutralist view in essence describes a process of isolation by dispersal limitation (IBDL) that generally leads to a pattern of isolation by distance (IBD). Recently, however, conceptual frameworks have been put forward that view local genetic adaptation as an important driver of population genetic structure. Isolation by adaptation (IBA) and monopolization (M) posit that gene flow among natural populations is reduced as a consequence of local genetic adaptation. IBA stresses that effective gene flow is reduced among habitats that show dissimilar ecological characteristics, leading to a pattern of isolation by environment. In monopolization, local genetic adaptation of initial colonizing genotypes results in a reduction in gene flow that fosters the persistence of founder effects. Here, we relate these different processes driving landscape genetic structure to patterns of IBD and isolation by environment (IBE). We propose a method to detect whether IBDL, IBA and M shape genetic differentiation in natural landscapes by studying patterns of variation at neutral and non‐neutral markers as well as at ecologically relevant traits. Finally, we reinterpret a representative number of studies from the recent literature by associating patterns to processes and identify patterns associated with local genetic adaptation to be as common as IBDL in structuring regional genetic variation of populations in the wild. Our results point to the importance of quantifying environmental gradients and incorporating ecology in the analysis of population genetics.
Lon protease inactivation, or translocation of the lon gene, potentiate bacterial evolution to antibiotic resistance
Authors: Nicoloff Hervé , Andersson Dan I.
Published: October 2013

Previous work demonstrated that selection for Escherichia coli mutants with low antibiotic resistance frequently resulted in co‐selection of lon mutations and that lon− mutants evolved higher‐level resistance faster than a lon+ strain. Here we show that lon mutation causes a very low multidrug resistance by inducing the AcrAB‐TolC pump via stabilization of the acrAB transcriptional activators MarA and SoxS, which are substrates of the Lon protease. Fast evolution of lon− mutants towards higher resistance involves selection of frequent next‐step mutations consisting of large duplications including acrAB and the mutated lon gene. Resistance results from the combined effects of acrAB duplication and lon mutation increasing dosage of efflux pump. In contrast, when acrAB duplication occurs as the first step mutation, increased Lon activity caused by lon+ co‐duplication mitigates the effect of acrAB duplication on resistance, and faster evolution towards higher resistance is not observed. As predicted, when the functional lon gene is relocated far from acrAB to prevent their co‐duplication, first‐step acrAB duplication confers higher resistance, which then allows selection of frequent next‐step mutations and results in faster evolution towards higher resistance. Our results demonstrate how order of appearance of mutations and gene location can influence the rate of resistance evolution.
Comparison of communication during home medical care between patients with intractable neurological disorders and those with malignant tumors
Authors: Kimura Takuma , Matsuzaki Makoto , Imanaga Teruhiko , Kawai Mitsuru
Published: October 2013

Aim

Home medical care is currently a topic of discussion in Japan. It is reported that the key to the success of home medical care is communication. The aim of the present study was to elucidate the characteristics of communication during home medical care of patients with intractable neurological diseases (IND patients) by comparing them with patients with malignant tumors, the representative common disease for home medical care.

Methods

A questionnaire survey was sent out in June and July 2011 to 295 families of patients who had previously received home medical care. The response rate was 83.8% (n = 227). Communication backgrounds were compared between those patients whose primary disease was either IND or malignant tumor.

Results

Analysis of responses from 104 families (IND, 30 and malignant tumors, 74). was undertaken The number of families that experienced “doctor‐patient communication without family” was 15% (n = 4) in the IND group and 35% (n = 24) in the malignant tumor group (P < 0.05). The number of families who had experienced “doctor‐family communication without patient” was 44% (n = 12) in the IND group and 83% (n = 54) in the malignant tumor group (P < 0.01). No statistically significant differences in doctors' stay duration were observed.

Conclusion

It is suggested that communication with the patient in the presence of their family is characteristic of communication during home medical care of IND patients, because this was observed to be more frequent than that for malignant tumor patients.
Current anti‐epileptic treatment in women of childbearing age
Authors: Tomson Torbjörn
Published: October 2013

The treatment of epilepsy in women of childbearing age requires special considerations. Pregnancies should ideally be planned allowing for appropriate treatment adjustments before conception. The prescribing physician therefore needs to be aware of the pharmacokinetic interactions between enzyme‐inducing anti‐epileptic drugs (AED) and oral contraceptives, and also of the effect of estradiol‐containing contraceptives on lamotrigine. The pharmacological treatment of epilepsy during pregnancy aims at controlling generalized tonic–clonic seizures with minimized exposure to potentially teratogenic drugs. Research has shown differences between AED in their teratogenic potential. Whereas, valproate has been associated with greater risks for malformations and adverse effects on cognition than carbamazepine and lamotrgine, the teratogenic risks with the latter two AED appears to be limited. Risks appear to increase with the dose. Our knowledge of the safety of other newer AED is still insufficient. The teratogenic risks should be balanced against the need for seizure control, which can be challenging, as serum concentrations of AED might be affected by pregnancy. This is most pronounced for lamotrigine, but is also relevant for other AED. The general strategy is to select the most appropriate AED for the individual woman taking efficacy as well as teratogenic potential into account and to try out, before conception, the lowest effective dose. Once this has been established, it is recommended to measure the serum concentration of the drug that will serve as a reference for drug concentrations obtained during pregnancy. After delivery, breast‐feeding can usually be recommended.
The purine metabolite allantoin enhances abiotic stress tolerance through synergistic activation of abscisic acid metabolism
Authors: WATANABE SHUNSUKE , MATSUMOTO MAYUMI , HAKOMORI YUKI , TAKAGI HIROSHI , SHIMADA HIROSHI , SAKAMOTO ATSUSHI
Published: October 2013

Purine catabolism is regarded as a housekeeping function that remobilizes nitrogen for plant growth and development. However, emerging evidence suggests that certain purine metabolites might contribute to stress protection of plants. Here, we show that in Arabidopsis, the intermediary metabolite allantoin plays a role in abiotic stress tolerance via activation of abscisic acid (ABA) metabolism. The aln loss‐of‐function of ALN, encoding allantoinase, results in increased allantoin accumulation, genome‐wide up‐regulation of stress‐related genes and enhanced tolerance to drought‐shock and osmotic stress in aln mutant seedlings. This phenotype is not caused by a general response to purine catabolism inhibition, but rather results from a specific effect of allantoin. Allantoin activates ABA production both through increased transcription of NCED3, encoding a key enzyme in ABA biosynthesis, and through post‐translational activation via high‐molecular‐weight complex formation of BG1, a β‐glucosidase hydrolysing glucose‐conjugated ABA. Exogenous application of allantoin to wild‐type plants also activates the two ABA‐producing pathways that lead to ABA accumulation and stress‐responsive gene expression, but this effect is abrogated in ABA‐deficient and BG1‐knockout mutants. We propose that purine catabolism functions not only in nitrogen metabolism, but also in stress tolerance by influencing ABA production, which is mediated by the possible regulatory action of allantoin.
Risk factors for acute pancreatitis in patients with severe motor and intellectual disabilities
Authors: Tamasaki Akiko , Nishimura Yoko , Kondo Noriko , Shirai Kentaro , Maegaki Yoshihiro , Ohno Kousaku
Published: October 2013

Background

Acute pancreatitis in patients with severe motor and intellectual disability (SMID) is a rare but life‐threatening condition. Possible causes of acute pancreatitis in these patients including valproic acid therapy, hypothermia and nasoduodenal tube feeding, have not yet been investigated in detail. The aim of this study was therefore to investigate the risk factors for acute pancreatitis in patients with SMID.

Methods

Five SMID patients with acute pancreatitis and 15 SMID patients without acute pancreatitis were reviewed. Age; serum total cholesterol, triglyceride, total protein, and albumin; height; bodyweight; body surface area; body mass index; daily calorie intake; daily calorie intake per unit of body mass surface area; daily calorie intake per kilogram bodyweight; and valproic acid usage were examined.

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed in serum albumin level between the two groups (P = 0.026).

Conclusion

The mechanism of acute pancreatitis in these patients was considered as pancreatic morphological change, acinar damage, and elevated serum trypsinogen level caused by malnutrition. It is likely that acute pancreatitis in patients with SMID occurs due to the same mechanism as in anorexia nervosa and malnourished patients. To prevent acute pancreatitis in these patients, it is important to maintain adequate nutritional status.