bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fine Individual Specialization and Elitism among Workers of the Ant Ectatomma tuberculatum for a Highly Specific Task: Intruder Removal
Authors: Rocha Franklin H. , Lachaud Jean‐Paul , Valle‐Mora Javier , Pérez‐Lachaud Gabriela
Published: August 2014

Insect societies are characterized by a relatively sophisticated division of labor; they form tightly knit groups that must effectively exclude non‐members from the colony. However, the Neotropical predatory ant Ectatomma tuberculatum can harbor several specific myrmecophiles and, in particular, various eucharitid parasitoid wasp species. Adult wasps eclose in the host nests and are removed by worker ants without harm. Previous observations suggest that only a few workers perform this task. To test this hypothesis, we introduced different types of intruders, live and dead, pentane‐washed broad‐nosed grain weevil individuals (Caulophilus oryzae) and dead, pentane‐washed eucharitids (Dilocantha lachaudii), into laboratory colonies containing individually marked workers. We recorded all encounters and behaviors until the intruders were removed. Certain workers removed intruders more frequently than expected by chance. The number of encounters with an intruder was positively correlated with the number of removals performed by the workers. For each nest, a small group of workers was identified as specialized in intruder removal. A subset of very committed workers in the specialists group that performed up to 57% of removals qualified as hyperspecialists or elite workers. The behavioral sequences differed based on the type and condition of the intruder: the sequence was more complex and included numerous aggressive behaviors (mandibular strikes and attempts at stinging) when workers encountered a live weevil. In contrast, the behavioral sequences with dead, pentane‐washed insects were characterized by numerous detections through contact that did not lead to rejection and by the intruders simply being seized and removed from the nest. Overall, the data show that the ants discriminated between live and pentane‐washed intruders and adjusted their behavior accordingly. This is the first demonstration in ants of both behavioral specialization and hyperspecialization in intruder removal.
Fault prediction considering threshold effects of object‐oriented metrics
Authors: Malhotra Ruchika , Bansal Ankita Jain
Published: August 2014

Software product quality can be enhanced significantly if we have a good knowledge and understanding of the potential faults therein. This paper describes a study to build predictive models to identify parts of the software that have high probability of occurrence of fault. We have considered the effect of thresholds of object‐oriented metrics on fault proneness and built predictive models based on the threshold values of the metrics used. Prediction of fault prone classes in earlier phases of software development life cycle will help software developers in allocating the resources efficiently. In this paper, we have used a statistical model derived from logistic regression to calculate the threshold values of object oriented, Chidamber and Kemerer metrics. Thresholds help developers to alarm the classes that fall outside a specified risk level. In this way, using the threshold values, we can divide the classes into two levels of risk – low risk and high risk. We have shown threshold effects at various risk levels and validated the use of these thresholds on a public domain, proprietary dataset, KC1 obtained from NASA and two open source, Promise datasets, IVY and JEdit using various machine learning methods and data mining classifiers. Interproject validation has also been carried out on three different open source datasets, Ant and Tomcat and Sakura. This will provide practitioners and researchers with well formed theories and generalised results. The results concluded that the proposed threshold methodology works well for the projects of similar nature or having similar characteristics.
Crack growth resistance curves of GLARE 3 5/4 0.3 fiber–metal laminates at low temperature
Authors: Paiva Martins Fontes O. H. , Bastian F. L. , Castrodeza E. M.
Published: August 2014

The objective of this work was the evaluation of crack growth resistance curves ( J–Rcurves) of commercial GLARE® 3 5/4 laminates at −50 °C. The experimental evaluation of these curves was performed on 50‐mm‐wide compact tension specimens through the unloading compliance technique. The tests were based on the ASTM E1820 standard with minor modifications. Additionally, tensile tests were also performed at −50 °C on dogbone specimens according to the ASTM E8M standard. Comparisons between low and room temperature properties indicate that the material preserves both its tensile strength and fracture toughness at −50 °C, although low temperatureJ–Rcurves presented smaller slopes than the room temperature ones after the onset of stable crack growth.
Empirical Validation of Listening Proficiency Guidelines
Authors: Cox Troy L. , Clifford Ray
Published: August 2014

Because listening has received little attention and the validation of ability scales describing multidimensional skills is always challenging, this study applied a multistage, criterion‐referenced approach that used a framework of aligned audio passages and listening tasks to explore the validity of the ACTFL and related listening proficiency guidelines. Rasch measurement and statistical analyses of data generated in seven separate language studies resulted in significant differences in listening difficulty between the proficiency levels tested and confirmed the validity of the ACTFL proficiency assessment for listening.
Comparing Teachers' Judgments of Learners' Speech in Chinese as a Foreign Language
Authors: Orton Jane
Published: August 2014

Pedagogical norms for Chinese as a foreign language (CFL) shared by teachers, curriculum writers, and resource designers inside and outside of Chinese societies are yet to be established. To initiate and inform dialogue within the CFL community over shared expectations of learners, this study compared the judgments of students' oral presentations rendered by three groups of teachers: first language (L1) teachers of Chinese in China, L1 teachers of Chinese in Australia, and second language (L2) teachers of Chinese in Australia, where Chinese has been taught in K–16 schools for more than 25 years. The aim was to ascertain the nature and range of features that the three groups noticed and found acceptable and to identify differences in perspectives, including those that were tacitly understood and those that were overtly stated. Results showed considerable common ground on which to create norms for the growing number of CFL programs. However, the data also revealed strong differences between L1 teachers and L2 teachers on the nature of the speaker–audience relationship being sought, suggesting deeper conceptual differences along L1‐L2 lines about this particular aspect of students' oral communication. These findings call for committed intercultural dialogue over “appropriate meaning schemata for FL [foreign language] learners” (Kramsch, 2002) as well as further research.
Exploring Oral Proficiency Profiles of Heritage Speakers of Russian and Spanish
Authors: Swender Elvira , Martin Cynthia L. , Rivera‐Martinez Mildred , Kagan Olga E.
Published: August 2014

This article explores the linguistic profiles of heritage speakers of Russian and Spanish. Data from the 2009–2013 ACTFL‐UCLA NHLRC Heritage Language Project included biographical information as well as speech samples that were elicited using the ACTFL Oral Proficiency Interview–computer and were rated according to the ACTFL Proficiency Guidelines 2012–Speaking by certified testers. The goal of the study was to better understand the multiple linguistic, educational, and experiential factors that contributed to the speaking proficiency of these heritage speakers as well as how those features affected the tasks and contexts in which the speakers could more appropriately communicate in the language. The data illuminate the linguistic strengths and weaknesses of speakers within certain ranges and highlight those language features that prevented the participants from being rated at the next higher level. The authors discuss implications for teaching and learning and make recommendations for both heritage speakers and their instructors.
Mutation of Dcdc2 in mice leads to impairments in auditory processing and memory ability
Authors: Truong D. T. , Che A. , Rendall A. R. , Szalkowski C. E. , LoTurco J. J. , Galaburda A. M. , Holly Fitch R.
Published: August 2014

Dyslexia is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by impaired reading ability despite normal intellect, and is associated with specific difficulties in phonological and rapid auditory processing (RAP), visual attention and working memory. Genetic variants in Doublecortin domain‐containing protein 2 (DCDC2) have been associated with dyslexia, impairments in phonological processing and in short‐term/working memory. The purpose of this study was to determine whether sensory and behavioral impairments can result directly from mutation of the Dcdc2 gene in mice. Several behavioral tasks, including a modified pre‐pulse inhibition paradigm (to examine auditory processing), a 4/8 radial arm maze (to assess/dissociate working vs. reference memory) and rotarod (to examine sensorimotor ability and motor learning), were used to assess the effects of Dcdc2 mutation. Behavioral results revealed deficits in RAP, working memory and reference memory in Dcdc2del2/del2 mice when compared with matched wild types. Current findings parallel clinical research linking genetic variants of DCDC2 with specific impairments of phonological processing and memory ability.
Quality of life across three groups of older adults differing in cognitive status and place of residence
Authors: León‐Salas Beatriz , Ayala Alba , Blaya‐Nováková Vendula , Avila‐Villanueva Marina , Rodríguez‐Blázquez Carmen , Rojo‐Pérez Fermina , Fernández‐Mayoralas Gloria , Martínez‐Martín Pablo , Forjaz Maria João ,   Spanish Research Group on Quality of Life and Aging
Published: August 2014

Background

Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) in older adults is determined by personal conditions, as well as by the social and physical environment. The purpose of the present study was to describe the factors related to health conditions and residential environment that influence HRQOL of older adults.

Methods

Data from 1815 cases came from three cross‐sectional surveys on quality of life in older adults in Spain: non‐institutionalized older adults (n = 1106), institutionalized older adults without dementia (n = 234) and institutionalized older adults with dementia (n = 475). Assessment instruments used were: Barthel Index, Short Portable Mental Status Questionnaire, Comorbidity Index, EQ‐5D‐3L (5 dimensions, EQ‐index and EQ‐VAS), and information about sociodemographic characteristics and social networks. Partial correlation and multivariate logistic regression analyses were carried out.

Results

In group comparisons, institutionalized older adults showed a higher percentage of problems in the EQ‐5D‐3L dimensions than the non‐institutionalized ones. Also, older adults with dementia presented less pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression than the other groups, but showed more problems in mobility, self‐care and usual activities. EQ‐Index showed a high association with functional independence, perceived health status and comorbidity. According to the logistic regression models, the Barthel Index was the most common determinant for most of EQ‐5D‐3L dimensions in all groups.

Conclusion

Institutionalized older adults with dementia presented lower HRQOL than the other groups. Functional independence, comorbidity and cognitive status were the main HRQOL determinants in all groups. Maintenance and improvement of the functional condition might be translated into a higher HRQOL of older adults. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 627–635.
Are cytokeratin‐positive cells in sentinel lymph nodes of patients with invasive breast carcinomas up to 5 mm usually insignificant?
Authors: Jaffer Shabnam , Bleiweiss Ira J , Nayak Anupma
Published: August 2014

Aims

It is known that sentinel lymph nodes (SLN) may be falsely positive due to displaced epithelial cells, particularly in cases with an underlying intraductal papilloma. Given the low metastatic rate in pT1a carcinomas, we aimed to investigate the effect of this phenomenon on staging.

Methods and results

Using morphology and immunohistochemistry, we classified the epithelial cells in the SLN in 39 cases of pT1a carcinoma as positive for carcinoma in six, negative in 26 and undetermined in seven. Comparative morphology and immunohistochemistry (using oestrogen receptor, ER) showed complete concordance between the primary carcinoma and SLN in the positive cases, and discordance in the negative cases. The primary tumours in the negative cases were ER‐positive except one, in contrast to the SLN cytokeratin‐positive (CK+) cells, which were ER‐negative. The exception was a case with a Her2‐positive primary, in which the SLN CK+ cells did not stain for Her2. In these cases considered SLN‐negative, either displacement (19 cases) or an intraductal papilloma (20 cases) was identified. Two cases showed displacement of benign and malignant cells in the biopsy. Seven cases were indeterminate due to the small number of SLN CK+ cells, precluding comparison with the primary.

Conclusion

Given the low rate of metastases in pT1a carcinomas, the significance of SLN CK+ cells should be resolved by comparative morphology and immunohistochemistry to prevent erroneous upstaging.
Type A and AB thymomas: histological features associated with increased stage
Authors: Green Anna C , Marx Alexander , Ströbel Philipp , Mason Marianne , Lim Eric , Jordan Simon , Ladas George , Dusmet Michael , Rice Alexandra , Nicholson Andrew G
Published: August 2014

Aims

The current WHO classification of thymic epithelial neoplasms describes type A and type AB thymomas as behaving ‘like benign neoplasms’. However, recent published data suggest that rare cases may show more aggressive behaviour. The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of atypical cases, and to determine whether atypia is associated with more advanced disease.

Methods and results

One hundred and twenty‐one thymomas (type A, n = 68; type AB, n = 53) were retrospectively reviewed for ‘atypical’ features (nuclear pleomorphism, mitotic activity, and necrosis). Logistic regression was used to ascertain the association with increasing Masaoka–Koga stage. Where available, follow‐up data were also reviewed. There were 72 stage I, 42 stage II, five stage III and two stage IV tumours. Only the presence of necrosis showed a significant association with increased stage in univariate and multivariate analysis. Nuclear atypia and increased mitotic activity were not associated with increasing stage of disease.

Conclusions

Our data support the concept of there being more aggressive atypical variants of both type A and type AB thymoma, and suggest that the presence of necrosis could be used to predict aggressive behaviour.
Species‐specific habitat use of wing‐moulting waterbirds in response to temporary flightlessness
Authors: Gehrold Andrea
Published: August 2014

The choice of the moulting habitat is of paramount importance for wing‐moulting waterbirds that have to cope with a flightless period of several weeks. However, some species might have more restricted habitat requirements during moult than others, for example due to a highly specialized feeding ecology. The moult‐related habitat use of five species (Gadwall Anas strepera, Red‐crested Pochard Netta rufina, Common Pochard Aythya ferina, Tufted Duck Aythya fuligula, Coot Fulica atra) was compared at a European inland moulting site that offered a variety of water bodies characterized by different levels of nutrient concentration, water depth, shoreline vegetation density and disturbance. To determine location‐ and species‐specific densities, birds were regularly counted throughout the moulting seasons of 2010 and 2011. In 2011, additional data on Gadwalls were used to assess differences in requirements between the flightless phase of moult and the periods before and after. Furthermore, habitat choice of 38 tagged Gadwalls was compared among two to four successive years. During the moulting season, all species showed clear preferences for specific levels of nutrient content, suggesting an active choice of suitable food sources in both food specialists and generalists. Species showing the strongest attachment to shallow water (Gadwall and Coot) were most sensitive to human disturbance and increasing water depths, and species averse to diving (Gadwall) used ponds with dense shore vegetation while flightless. For Gadwalls, habitat conditions rather than nutrient supply became increasingly important during the flightless phase. Average return rates of 59 and 54% were recorded for male and female Gadwalls, respectively, and the repeated use of familiar locations could be demonstrated in the majority of returning birds (65%). Familiarity with the habitat apparently plays an important role and may enable individuals to compensate for suboptimal conditions at the moulting site.
Monitoring the biogenic amines in Chinese traditional salted pork in jelly (Yao‐meat) by colorimetric sensor array based on nine natural pigments
Authors: Xiaowei Huang , Xiaobo Zou , Jiewen Zhao , Jiyong Shi , Zhihua Li , Tingting Shen
Published: August 2014

To develop simple, cheap and convenient sensors for Yao‐meat freshness evaluation and biogenic amines (BAs) detection, a colorimetric sensor array was made by printing nine natural pigments on a hydrophobic nanoporous film. A colour change profile for each sample was obtained by differentiating the image of sensor array before and after exposure to volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The sensor array was exposed to atmospheres containing BAs vapours with concentrations over the range 10–30 ppm. Rosa chinensis extract possessed the highest sensitivity thanked to the highest anthocyanin contents. The results of principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the measurements corresponded to three freshness levels were separated clearly. The partial least‐squares prediction model was obtained with the correlation coefficients of 0.921 and 0.907 in calibration and validation sets, respectively. This research suggested that the anthocyanins content pigments maybe a very useful colorimetric sensor for quality evaluation of meat.
Single‐centre cross‐sectional analysis of advance care planning among elderly inpatients
Authors: Cheang F. , Finnegan T. , Stewart C. , Hession A. , Clayton J. M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Advance care planning (ACP) has been shown to provide beneficial outcomes for elderly patients; however, it may not be commonly implemented.

Aims

To assess prevalence of advance care directives (ACD) and documented medical orders about end‐of‐life care for elderly inpatients; to explore the feasibility of an ACP screening interview.

Methods

A single‐centre cross‐sectional analysis of 100 consecutive patients aged ≥80 years admitted for ≥48 h to a tertiary referral hospital, conducted between 16 and 18 January 2013. Medical records were reviewed for presence of (i) an ACD, (ii) resuscitation/end‐of‐life care intervention orders (REOL) and (iii) documented substitute decision‐maker (SDM). If patients were able and willing to participate they completed an ACP screening interview exploring (i) their views on ACP and (ii) if an ACD was previously documented.

Results

In 100 medical records, there were: zero ACD, 17 REOL and 8 with clear documentation of patients' preferred SDM. Out of 100 patients, 33 completed the interview: 32 (97%) were able to identify their preferred SDM, in 9 (27%) the nominated SDM was different from their ‘next of kin’. Out of 33, 7 (21%) reported having an enduring guardian, 4/33 (12%) an ACD. Out of 29, 23 (79%) interviewees without an ACD were interested in discussing ACP further. Out of 30, 8 (27%) interviewees without REOL said that they would not wish to have aggressive life‐prolonging measures. No patients reported discomfort with the screening interview.

Conclusions

ACD and correct documentation of SDM were uncommon in the medical records in this sample of elderly inpatients. The ACP screening interview appears feasible and acceptable and may be a useful tool for identifying patients' preferred SDM and willingness to discuss ACP further.
Association of quantitative interferon‐γ responses with the progression of naturally acquired Mycobacterium bovis infection in wild European badgers (Meles meles)
Authors: Tomlinson Alexandra J. , Chambers Mark A. , McDonald Robbie A. , Delahay Richard J.
Published: August 2014

Bovine tuberculosis is one of the biggest challenges facing cattle farming in Great Britain. European badgers (Meles meles) are a reservoir host for the causal agent, Mycobacterium bovis. There have been significant recent advances in diagnostic testing for tuberculosis in humans, cattle and badgers, with the development of species‐specific assays for interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ), an important cytokine in tuberculous infections. Using data collected from longitudinal studies of naturally infected wild badgers, we report that the magnitude of the IFN‐γ response to M. bovis antigens at the disclosing test event was positively correlated with subsequent progression of disease to a seropositive or excreting state. In addition, we show that the magnitude of the IFN‐γ response, despite fluctuation, declined with time after the disclosing event for all badgers, but remained significantly higher in those animals with evidence of disease progression. We discuss how our findings may be related to the immunopathogenesis of natural M. bovis infection in badgers.
Validation of a laser‐assisted wound measurement device in a wound healing model
Authors: Constantine Ryan S , Bills Jessica D , Lavery Lawrence A , Davis Kathryn E
Published: August 2014

In the treatment and monitoring of a diabetic or chronic wound, accurate and repeatable measurement of the wound provides indispensable data for the patient's medical record. This study aims to measure the accuracy of the laser‐assisted wound measurement (LAWM) device against traditional methods in the measurement of area, depth and volume. We measured four ‘healing’ wounds in a Play‐Doh®‐based model over five subsequent states of wound healing progression in which the model was irregularly filled in to replicate the healing process. We evaluated the LAWM device against traditional methods including digital photograph assessment with National Institutes of Health ImageJ software, measurements of depth with a ruler and weight‐to‐volume assessment with dental paste. Statistical analyses included analysis of variance (ANOVA) and paired t‐tests. We demonstrate that there are significantly different and nearly statistically significant differences between traditional ruler depth measurement and LAWM device measurement, but there are no statistically significant differences in area measurement. Volume measurements were found to be significantly different in two of the wounds. Rate of percentage change was analysed for volume and depth in the wound healing model, and the LAWM device was not significantly different than the traditional measurement technique. While occasionally inaccurate in its absolute measurement, the LAWM device is a useful tool in the clinician's arsenal as it reliably measures rate of percentage change in depth and volume and offers a potentially aseptic alternative to traditional measurement techniques.
Scarless outpatient ablation of pilonidal sinus: a pilot study of a new minimally invasive treatment
Authors: Neola Benedetto , Capasso Stefano , Caruso Luca , Falato Armando , Ferulano Giuseppe P
Published: August 2014

Pain and secretion of purulent materials are symptoms that are often associated with the pilonidal sinus. Generally, these symptoms are neglected by patients for a long time. Patients seek medical attention too late, fearing a prolonged period of pain and inability after surgery. The optimal therapy for pilonidal sinus should have the following characteristics: high healing rate, low recurrence rate, minimal postoperative pain and low cost. The aim of this study is to explore the effectiveness and safety of a new minimally invasive treatment: the scarless outpatient ablation of pilonidal sinus (SOAP). A total of 31 consecutive patients were enrolled; 27 of 31 patients were declared healed after the surgery (87·09%). After 1 year, only 4 of 27 patients (14·81%) reported symptoms related to recurrence of the disease. The average duration of the operation was 7·47 minutes. Patients reported the disappearance of painful symptoms after approximately 2·62 days and had been away from work for 0·53 days. No complications were recorded during the period of study. The advantages of the procedure examined in this study are its simplicity and rapidity of execution, its outpatient setting, its low cost and lack of complications. In our opinion, a randomised controlled trial should be conducted to validate the results related to this technique.
Updating biological bases of social behavior
Authors: O'Connor Thomas G.
Published: August 2014

This month's collation of papers deals with social behaviors that operationalize key constructs in fields covered by the journal, including attachment theory and parenting; emotional regulation; psychopathology of several forms; general and specific cognitive abilities. Notably, many examples are offered of how these social behaviors link with biology. That is an obvious and important direction for clinical research insofar as it helps to erase a perceptual chasm and artificial duality between ‘behavior’ and ‘biology’. But, although it must be the case that social behavior has biological connections of one sort or other, identifying reliable connections with practical application has proved to be a non‐trivial challenge. In particular, the challenge seems to be in measuring social behavior meaningfully enough that it could be expected to have a biological pulse, and in measuring biological markers systematically enough that emergent‐downstream effects would surface. Associations are not especially uncommon, but it has been a frustrating task in constructing a practically broad model from a bricolage of scattered and disconnected parts and findings in the literature. Several reports in this issue offer contrasts that may help move along this line of study.
Identifying the contents of a type 1 diabetes outpatient care program based on the self‐adjustment of insulin using the Delphi method
Authors: Kubota Mutsuko , Shindo Yukari , Kawaharada Mariko
Published: August 2014

Aim

The objective of this study is to identify the items necessary for an outpatient care program based on the self‐adjustment of insulin for type 1 diabetes patients.

Methods

Two surveys based on the Delphi method were conducted. The survey participants were 41 certified diabetes nurses in Japan. An outpatient care program based on the self‐adjustment of insulin was developed based on pertinent published work and expert opinions.

Results

There were a total of 87 survey items in the questionnaire, which was developed based on the care program mentioned earlier, covering matters such as the establishment of prerequisites and a cooperative relationship, the basics of blood glucose pattern management, learning and practice sessions for the self‐adjustment of insulin, the implementation of the self‐adjustment of insulin, and feedback. The participants' approval on items in the questionnaires was defined at 70%. Participants agreed on all of the items in the first survey. Four new parameters were added to make a total of 91 items for the second survey and participants agreed on the inclusion of 84 of them.

Conclusion

Items necessary for a type 1 diabetes outpatient care program based on self‐adjustment of insulin were subsequently selected. It is believed that this care program received a fairly strong approval from certified diabetes nurses; however, it will be necessary to have the program further evaluated in conjunction with intervention studies in the future.
Expression of placenta growth factor, soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1, metal‐responsive transcription factor‐1, heme oxygenase 1 and hypoxia inducible factor‐1α mRNAs in pre‐eclampsia placenta and the effect of pre‐eclampsia sera on their expression of choriocarcinoma cells
Authors: Maebayashi (Asanuma) Aki , Yamamoto Tatsuo , Azuma Hiromitu , Kato Erina , Yamamoto Noriko , Murase Takayuki , Chishima Fumihisa , Suzuki Manami
Published: August 2014

Aim

We studied the effect of pre‐eclampsia sera on the expression of placenta growth factor (PlGF), soluble fms‐like tyrosine kinase‐1 (sFlt‐1), metal‐responsive transcription factor‐1 (MTF‐1), heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) and hypoxia inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α) mRNAs in JEG‐3 cells (trophoblast‐derived cells) and placenta from pre‐eclampsia patients to investigate pre‐eclampsia pathophysiology.

Material and Methods

Placenta and serum samples were taken from pre‐eclampsia and normal pregnancy patients. JEG‐3 cells were cultured with pre‐eclampsia and normal pregnant sera in 24‐well tissue culture plates. RNA was purified from placental trophoblast cells and JEG‐3 cells 24 h after incubation. The expression of mRNA was measured using real‐time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

The expression of sFlt‐1 mRNA increased, and that of PlGF and HO‐1 mRNA decreased in JEG‐3 cells after incubation with pre‐eclampsia sera. The expression of PlGF mRNA decreased, and that of sFlt‐1mRNA increased in pre‐eclampsia placenta. The expression of MTF‐1 and HO‐1 mRNA decreased. A correlation was found between PlGF mRNA expression and the expression of MTF‐1 and HIF‐1α mRNA. A correlation between sFlt‐1 and HIF‐1α mRNA expression was also found.

Conclusion

Changes in PlGF mRNA expression in pre‐eclampsia placenta may relate to serum factors and the expression of MTF‐1 and HIF‐α mRNA. Changes in sFlt‐1mRNA expression may relate to serum factors and the expression of HIF‐α mRNA. We suggest that serum factors play a role in PlGF and sFlt‐1 expression in pre‐eclampsia placenta.
Lead and trace element levels in placenta, maternal and cord blood: A cross‐sectional pilot study
Authors: Reddy Yathapu Srinivasa , Y Aparna , Ramalaksmi B. A. , Kumar B. Dinesh
Published: August 2014

Aim

To determine lead (Pb) and trace element (Fe, Zn, Cu, Mg) levels in placenta, maternal and cord blood; further, to assess the interactions between Pb and trace elements, if any.

Methods

A cluster of ‘at term pregnant women’ from rural and urban areas (n = 30 each, total n = 60) as well as their neonates after delivery were recruited. Maternal blood, heel prick neonatal blood, placenta and cord blood were collected at the time of parturition. Pb and trace element levels in blood/serum, placenta were determined on graphite furnace atomic absorption (AAS) and flame AAS respectively. Due to sample constraints, only Pb levels were determined in heel prick blood samples of neonates.

Results

There were no major abnormal signs and symptoms, however, 38% had pale conjunctiva and 13% had pigmented tongue. The blood lead levels (BLL) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in urban post‐partum women compared to their rural counterparts. Higher BLL did not correlate with either pregnancy outcome or neonatal anthropometry. Maternal serum trace element levels were deficient in both rural and urban women. Significant (P < 0.01) positive correlation between maternal and neonatal BLL as well as significant (P < 0.05) inverse correlation between cord BLL and placental Pb levels were observed. Maternal and cord BLL correlated inversely (P < 0.05) with maternal and cord serum Fe levels, respectively.

Conclusion

Urban post‐partum women and their neonates were at higher risk with elevated BLL. Estimate of cord blood Pb may not be the true index of neonatal BLL. These observations must be confirmed in a larger cohort because prenatal/neonatal screening avoids the risks associated with rest of life.
Predictors and incidence of post‐partum depression: A longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Abdollahi Fatemeh , Zarghami Mehran , Azhar Md Zain , Sazlina Shariff‐Ghazali , Lye Munn‐Sann
Published: August 2014

Aim

This study was designed to identify the incidence and the related factors contributing to post‐partum depression (PPD) in women in Iran for the first time.

Material and Methods

A total of 2279 eligible pregnant women from 32–42 weeks of pregnancy to 12 weeks post‐partum (2009) who attended primary health centers in Mazandaran province were screened for depression using the Iranian version of the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale. Pregnant women free from depression were assessed using validated questionnaires, including the Premenstrual Syndrome Questionnaire, Social Support Appraisal Scale, Network Orientation Scale, General Health Questionnaire, Marital Inventory, Life Events Rating Scale and Parental Expectation Survey. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine the risk factors of PPD.

Results

Of 1801 women who screened negative for depression at 32–42 weeks' gestation, cumulative incidence proportions were 6.7%, 4.3% and 4.5% during 0–2, >2–8 and >8–12 weeks post‐partum, respectively. The factors predictive of PPD were: history of depression during the first two trimesters of pregnancy (odds ratio [OR] = 2.55, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.59–4.1); psychiatric disorder during pregnancy (OR = 1.08, 95%CI = 1.06–1.11); gestational diabetes (OR = 2.93, 95%CI = 1.46–5.88); recurrent urinary infection (OR = 2.25, 95%CI = 1.44–3.52); unwanted pregnancy (OR = 2.5, 95%CI = 1.69–3.7) and low household income (OR = 3.57, 95%CI = 1.49–8.5). The risk was decreased with increasing age (OR = 0.88, 95%CI = 0.84–0.92) and those with high self‐efficacy for mothering (OR = 0.7, 95%CI = 0.62–0.78).

Conclusion

A high rate of new cases of PPD was identified in Iranian women. A combination of psychological, sociological, obstetric and sociodemographic factors can render mothers vulnerable to post‐partum depression.
“We are a people, one people”: How 1967 Transformed Holocaust Memory and Jewish Identity in Israel and the US
Authors: Navon Daniel
Published: August 2014

This paper examines how the “narrative‐identities” of Jewish communities in Israel and the US were unified through the events surrounding Israel's 1967 war with Egypt, Jordan and Syria. Using a range of historical materials, I show how key elements of the two communities' identities were rearranged and untied through a new, shared narrative that linked the Holocaust, Jewish victimhood and Israel. I argue that the old Zionist narrative enabled the new one, which in turn helped bind the two communities discursively, materially and politically. Finally, I discuss the implications for our understanding of identity change and the conflict over Israel/Palestine.
Backyard poultry: legislation, zoonoses and disease prevention
Authors: Whitehead M. L. , Roberts V.
Published: August 2014

In law, backyard poultry are “food‐producing animals” and “farmed animals” and are subject to regulations regarding welfare, prescribing, banned procedures, disposal of carcases, feeding bans, notifiable diseases and disease surveillance in addition to those applying to most other pets. Many owners and some veterinary surgeons are unclear about the requirements of these regulations. Backyard poultry are also associated with some different zoonotic disease risks to mammalian pets. Because a high proportion of poultry morbidity and mortality relates to infectious diseases, the health of backyard poultry is amenable to improvement through basic husbandry, biosecurity, hygiene and preventive medicine measures that can be incorporated into a simple “flock‐health plan”. This article reviews these topics.
Seasonal change in light partitioning among coexisting species of different functional groups along elevation gradient in subalpine moorlands
Authors: Kamiyama Chiho , Oikawa Shimpei , Hikosaka Kouki
Published: August 2014

Species niches are expected to differ between different functional groups and between species with different functional traits. However, it is still unclear how functional traits contribute to niche separation between species coexisting in a community and between sites along environmental gradients.

We studied seasonal changes in light partitioning among coexisting species belonging to different functional groups in moorland plant communities at different altitudes. We estimated the lifetime light absorption per unit invested leaf biomass (ΦLleafmass) as a measure of the benefit/cost ratio of light acquisition.

Evergreen species absorbed more light in spring, whereas deciduous species absorbed more light in summer. A similar tradeoff was also found between short and tall species within each functional group. As a result, evergreen and shorter species had comparable ΦLleafmass values to those of deciduous and taller species. Evergreen species had higher ΦLleafmass at higher altitudes relative to deciduous species, suggesting that evergreen habit is more advantageous for the lifetime light interception at higher altitudes.

Our results demonstrate that phenological tradeoffs for light partitioning can contribute to the coexistence of species with different functional traits. Our results also reveal that the most advantageous traits differ depending on environment.
Production and supply of high‐quality food protein for human consumption: sustainability, challenges, and innovations
Authors: Wu Guoyao , Fanzo Jessica , Miller Dennis D. , Pingali Prabhu , Post Mark , Steiner Jean L. , Thalacker‐Mercer Anna E.
Published: August 2014

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations estimates that 843 million people worldwide are hungry and a greater number suffer from nutrient deficiencies. Approximately one billion people have inadequate protein intake. The challenge of preventing hunger and malnutrition will become even greater as the global population grows from the current 7.2 billion people to 9.6 billion by 2050. With increases in income, population, and demand for more nutrient‐dense foods, global meat production is projected to increase by 206 million tons per year during the next 35 years. These changes in population and dietary practices have led to a tremendous rise in the demand for food protein, especially animal‐source protein. Consuming the required amounts of protein is fundamental to human growth and health. Protein needs can be met through intakes of animal and plant‐source foods. Increased consumption of food proteins is associated with increased greenhouse gas emissions and overutilization of water. Consequently, concerns exist regarding impacts of agricultural production, processing and distribution of food protein on the environment, ecosystem, and sustainability. To address these challenging issues, the New York Academy of Sciences organized the conference “Frontiers in Agricultural Sustainability: Studying the Protein Supply Chain to Improve Dietary Quality” to explore sustainable innovations in food science and programming aimed at producing the required quality and quantity of protein through improved supply chains worldwide. This report provides an extensive discussion of these issues and summaries of the presentations from the conference.
Effect of LEPR, ABCG2 and SCD1 Gene Polymorphisms on Reproductive Traits in the Iranian Holstein Cattle
Authors: Asadollahpour Nanaei H , Ansari Mahyari S , Edriss M‐A
Published: August 2014

Contents

During the last decades, genetic selection for milk production traits has led to increased fertility and health problems in dairy cattle. The aim of this study was to investigate the impact of three polymorphisms located in the ATP‐binding cassette superfamily G member 2 transporter (ABCG2), stearoyl‐CoA desaturase 1 (SCD1) and leptin receptor (LEPR) genes on reproductive traits and somatic cell count (SCC). The analysis was conducted on 408 randomly selected cows. The SNPs within the genes (LEPR, ABCG2 and SCD1) were genotyped using the PCR‐RFLP method. All three possible genotypes were observed for SCD1‐T878C and LEPR‐T945M SNPs, but not for ABCG2‐Y581S SNP. LEPR‐T945M and ABCG2‐Y581S SNPs had no statistically significant effect on the studied reproductive traits and SCC. However, SCD1‐T878C SNP were negatively and significantly related to pregnancy length, dry days and open days (p < 0.05), which lead to decreased profitability in dairy herds. The results suggest that the T878C SNP of SCD1 might be useful as a DNA marker to decrease reproductive problems and improve production traits in Iranian Holstein dairy cows.
A commercially available preparation of Staphylococcus aureus bio‐products potently inhibits tumour growth in a murine model of mesothelioma
Authors: Lansley Sally M. , Varano della Vergiliana Julius F. , Cleaver Amanda L. , Ren Shaohua H. , Segal Amanda , Xu Ming Yan , Lee Y.C. Gary
Published: August 2014

Background and objective

Mesothelioma is an incurable cancer with a rising global incidence. Intrapleural delivery of a commercially available compound made up of proteins produced by Staphylococcus aureus has been used clinically to induce pleurodesis. We investigate if this bacterial compound has anti‐tumoural activities against pleural malignancies, in addition to its pleurodesing effect.

Methods

The effects of the treatment on mesothelioma cells were evaluated in vitro and further tested in two validated murine models.

Results

This S. aureus bio‐product mixture effectively kills mesothelioma cells and induces the release of interleukin (IL)‐8, monocyte chemotactic protein (MCP)‐1 and vascular endothelial growth factor from primary human mesothelial cells but not malignant pleural mesothelioma cells in vitro. Intratumoural delivery of the treatment in BALB/c mice induced tumour necrosis and local activation of T cells. Tumour growth was significantly inhibited in the treatment group during and after the treatment period (size of tumour 58.8 ± 10.3 mm2 vs 118.3 ± 6.7 mm2 from saline controls at day 23, n = 9–12 per group), P < 0.001. Tumour growth resumed on cessation of treatment, confirming the inhibition was treatment related. Treatment benefits were further validated in an orthotopic peritoneal model of mesothelioma and the compound significantly reduced the mesothelioma load (P < 0.05 vs saline controls). Mice in the treatment group had a significant increase in the percentage of activated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in tumour‐draining lymph nodes. No histological side‐effects were observed with the treatment.

Conclusions

This proof‐of‐principle study demonstrates promising antitumoural activity of a commercially available compound of S. aureus bio‐products against mesothelioma.
The Impact of Firm Size and Liquidity on the Cost of External Finance in Africa
Authors: Hearn Bruce , Piesse Jenifer
Published: August 2014

Established illiquidity measures are constructed for emerging markets in Africa and used to determine which best explains trading costs. Costs of equity are derived from an augmented Capital Asset Pricing Model for a sample of emerging financial markets generally ignored in the literature. These include: South Africa and Namibia, three countries in North Africa and four in Sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA), plus London and Paris as examples of integrated markets. Minimum variance portfolios are constructed and asset weights derived, with the sample divided into countries dependent on their legal regime. Portfolio weights are shown to be directly related to well‐regulated markets with high standards of corporate governance and disclosure, and firms seeking cost‐effective finance from SSA stock markets are at a distinct disadvantage compared with those in Northern Africa, South Africa and, in particular, London and Paris.
Composite methodology for interpreting sediment transport pathways from spatial trends in grain size: A case study of the Lithuanian coast
Authors: Kairytė Milda , Stevens Rodney L.
Published: August 2014

To achieve a more robust interpretation of sediment conditions and transport based on grain size, this study combines the perspectives of two different interpretation techniques that have been developed separately and applied in the literature: (i) ‘grain size trend analysis’ interprets changes between interrelated sampling sites assuming that sediment in the direction of transport should become either coarser, better sorted and more positively skewed, or finer, better sorted and more negatively skewed; and (ii) the ‘population anomalies’ method, which estimates the balance between erosion and accumulation processes at each sampling site based on individual site deviations compared with average values for grain‐size parameters in the area of interest. The simultaneous use of both approaches enables sedimentological conditions and transport alternatives to be distinguished. This improvement is necessary because site‐specific changes and general textural trends provide information that complements the strengths and weaknesses of each perspective. The methods are implemented here using two‐dimensional Geographic Information System tools and illustrated for the Lithuanian coast. Grain‐size characteristics of 712 surface samples of sandy sediments are used to interpret sediment transport pathways and predominant sedimentological conditions in the Lithuanian coastal zone. In general, coast‐parallel sediment transport dominates the entire investigation area, although wave‐induced movement perpendicular to the coastline is inferred in the shallow nearshore zone. The deepest areas offshore are characterized by sea floor erosion in the north, whereas an accumulation zone occurs in the relatively deep central part of the study area.
Methylenetetrahydrofolate Reductase C667T Polymorphism is Associated with Increased Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in a Chinese Population
Authors: Chen W. , Hua K. , Gu H. , Zhang J. , Wang L.
Published: August 2014

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a complex disease resulting from a combination of environmental and genetic factors. We hypothesized that polymorphisms in methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) rs1801133 C/T, matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs)‐2, tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) rs755622 G/C and cyclin D1 (CCND1) rs678653 G/C contribute to CAD susceptibility. We examined the association between the five polymorphisms and the risk of CAD in a Chinese population of 435 CAD patients and 480 controls. Genotyping was performed using matrix‐assisted laser desorption ionization/time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (MALDI/TOF MS). When the MTHFR rs1801133 CC homozygote genotype was used as the reference group, the TT or CT/TT genotypes were associated with a significantly increased risk for CAD. The CT heterozygote genotype was not associated with the risk for CAD. Logistic regression analyses revealed that MMP‐2 rs243865 C/T, TNF‐α rs1800629 A/G, MIF rs755622 G/C and CCND1 rs678653 G/C polymorphisms were not associated with the risk of CAD. These findings suggest that the MTHFR rs1801133 C/T polymorphism is associated with CAD development. Future larger studies with other ethnic populations are required to confirm current findings.