bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Policy Intensions and the Folds of the Self
Authors: Webb P. Taylor , Gulson Kalervo N.
Published: April 2013

In this essay, P. Taylor Webb and Kalervo N. Gulson argue that educational policy is a spatial process and that implementation processes in particular produce crucial emergent geographies for policy research. Webb and Gulson describe how emergent geographies are produced when policy folds actors through senses and enactments of policy. The idea that policy is sensed and enacted is developed into the concept of a policy intension that extends approaches to spatial and, in particular, micropolitical analyses in policy research. Webb and Gulson conclude by discussing cartographical methods that better map the geographies of subjectivity produced through policy intensions.
The Open Courseware Movement in Higher Education: Unmasking Power and Raising Questions about the Movement's Democratic Potential
Authors: Rhoads Robert A. , Berdan, Jennifer , Toven‐Lindsey Brit
Published: April 2013

In this essay Robert Rhoads, Jennifer Berdan, and Brit Toven‐Lindsey examine some of the key literature related to the open courseware (OCW) movement (including the emergence and expansion of massive open online courses, or MOOCs), focusing particular attention on the movement's democratic potential. The discussion is organized around three central problems, all relating in some manner or form to issues of power: the problem of epistemology, the problem of pedagogy, and the problem of hegemony. More specifically, the authors raise issues related to the narrow notion of knowledge typically conveyed in the OCW movement, a limited understanding of what constitutes empowering pedagogy, and the lack of treatment of inequities associated with the production of courseware materials. The authors go on to argue that the lack of critical analysis of the OCW movement is tied to its relative alignment with educational reforms driven by neoliberal ideology and that such alignment serves to limit the movement's democratic possibilities.
Blood alcohol concentration as a determinant of outcomes after traumatic spinal cord injury
Authors: Furlan J. C. , Fehlings M. G.
Published: April 2013

Background

Pre‐clinical studies indicate a potential detrimental effect of ethanol on tissue sparing and locomotor recovery in animal models of spinal cord injury (SCI). Given this, an examination of whether blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is a potential determinant of survival and neurological and functional recovery after acute traumatic SCI was carried out.

Methods

All patients who were enrolled in the Third National Spinal Cord Injury Study (NASCIS‐3) were included. The study population was divided into ‘non‐alcohol’ (BAC equal to 0‰), ‘legal’ (BAC greater than 0 up to 0.8‰) and ‘illegal’ (BAC greater than 0.8‰) subgroups. Outcome measures included survival, NASCIS motor and sensory scores, NASCIS pain scores and Functional Independence Measure (FIM) determinants at baseline and at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year post‐SCI. Analyses were adjusted for major potential confounders: age, sex, ethnicity, trial protocol, Glasgow coma score, and cause, level and severity of SCI.

Results

Among 499 patients (423 males and 76 females; ages from 14 to 92 years), the mean BAC was 0.054 ± 0.006‰ (range 0–1). The survival at 1 year (94.4%) was not associated with the BAC (P = 0.374). Moreover, BAC was not significantly correlated with motor recovery (P > 0.166), sensory recovery (P > 0.323), change in pain score (P > 0.312) or functional recovery (P > 0.133) at 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year post‐SCI.

Conclusions

Our results, for the first time, show that the BAC at emergency admission does not adversely affect the patients' mortality, neurological impairment or functional disability over the course of the first year after SCI.
Complications of epilepsy surgery—A systematic review of focal surgical resections and invasive EEG monitoring
Authors: Hader Walter J. , Tellez‐Zenteno Jose , Metcalfe Amy , Hernandez‐Ronquillo Lisbeth , Wiebe Samuel , Kwon Churl‐Su , Jette Nathalie
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Underutilization of epilepsy surgery remains a major problem and is in part due to physicians' misconceptions about the risks associated with epilepsy surgery. The purpose of this study was to systematically review the literature on complications of focal epilepsy surgery.

Methods

A literature search was conducted using PubMed and Embase to identify studies examining epilepsy surgery complications. Abstract and full text review, along with data extraction, was done in duplicate. Minor medical and neurologic complications were defined as those that resolved completely within 3 months of surgery, whereas major complications persisted beyond that time frame. Descriptive statistics were used to report complication proportions.

Key Findings

Invasive monitoring: Minor complications were reported in 7.7% of patients, whereas major complications were reported in only 0.6% of patients undergoing invasive monitoring. Resective surgery: Minor and major medical complications were reported in 5.1% and 1.5% of patients respectively, most common being cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) leak. Minor neurologic complications occurred in 10.9% of patients and were twice as frequent in children (11.2% vs. 5.5%). Minor visual field defects were most common (12.9%). Major neurologic complications were noted in 4.7% of patients, with the most common being major visual field defects (2.1% overall). Perioperative mortality was uncommon after epilepsy surgery, occurring in only 0.4% of temporal lobe patients (1.2%extratemporal).

Significance

The majority of complications after epilepsy surgery are minor or temporary as they tend to resolve completely. Major permanent neurologic complications remain uncommon. Mortality as a result of epilepsy surgery in the modern era is rare.
Prolonged febrile seizures, clinical characteristics, and acute management
Authors: Bassan Haim , Barzilay Marina , Shinnar Shlomo , Shorer Zamir , Matoth Israel , Gross‐Tsur Varda
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Prolonged febrile seizures (PFS) lasting ≥15 min have been associated with increased risk for epilepsy in later life. Initial treatment, mostly prehospital, aims to prevent its evolution to febrile status epilepticus (FSE) and reduce adverse outcome. Paucity of information is available on the immediate treatment before reaching a hospital facility.

Methods

We obtained data, prospectively, on all children who presented from January 2008 to March 2010 with PFS to the emergency rooms of four Israeli medical centers. Information related to seizure semiology, treatment, and medical history was collected into a predefined pro forma form and reviewed centrally.

Key Findings

Sixty children, median age 18.3 months (interquartile range [IQR] 12–28) were included with a median seizure duration of 35 min (IQR 26–60), 43 (71.7%) lasting ≥30 min. Seizures had focal onset in 34 infants (57%). Fifty‐four families (90%) activated the ambulance service; median ambulance arrival time was 8 min (IQR 5–10), 33 (61%) were medically treated by the ambulance paramedic, of whom 15 (45%) responded to treatment. Twelve children with active seizures did not receive medications. Initial treatment with rectal diazepam was more common in those with seizure duration >30 min.

Significance

Most children with PFS are treated with antiepileptic drugs early by the ambulance service. However, even timely treatment does not prevent status epilepticus in the majority of cases. These data highlight the need for effective early treatment of this common pediatric emergency.
The lumazine synthase/riboflavin synthase complex: shapes and functions of a highly variable enzyme system
Authors: Ladenstein Rudolf , Fischer Markus , Bacher Adelbert
Published: April 2013

The xylene ring of riboflavin (vitamin B2) is assembled from two molecules of 3,4‐dihydroxy‐2‐butanone 4‐phosphate by a mechanistically complex process that is jointly catalyzed by lumazine synthase and riboflavin synthase. In Bacillaceae, these enzymes form a structurally unique complex comprising an icosahedral shell of 60 lumazine synthase subunits and a core of three riboflavin synthase subunits, whereas many other bacteria have empty lumazine synthase capsids, fungi, Archaea and some eubacteria have pentameric lumazine synthases, and the riboflavin synthases of Archaea are paralogs of lumazine synthase. The structures of the molecular ensembles have been studied in considerable detail by X‐ray crystallography, X‐ray small‐angle scattering and electron microscopy. However, certain mechanistic aspects remain unknown. Surprisingly, the quaternary structure of the icosahedral β subunit capsids undergoes drastic changes, resulting in formation of large, quasi‐spherical capsids; this process is modulated by sequence mutations. The occurrence of large shells consisting of 180 or more lumazine synthase subunits has recently generated interest for protein engineering topics, particularly the construction of encapsulation systems.
Proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 induces MCPIP1 expression
Authors: Skalniak Lukasz , Koj Aleksander , Jura Jolanta
Published: April 2013

The proteasome is a protein complex responsible for the degradation of polyubiquitin‐tagged proteins. Besides the removal of target proteins, the proteasome also participates in the regulation of gene transcription in both proteolytic and non‐proteolytic fashion. In this study the effect of proteasome inhibition on the basal expression of monocyte chemotactic protein‐1 induced protein 1 (MCPIP1) was examined. Treatment of HepG2 or HeLa cells with proteasome inhibitor MG‐132 resulted in a significant increase of MCPIP1 expression, both at mRNA and protein level. Interestingly, MG‐132 did not alter MCPIP1 stability. Instead, the observed protein increase was blocked by actinomycin D, suggesting the involvement of de novo mRNA synthesis in the increase of MCPIP1 protein following MG‐132 treatment. Using several inhibitors we determined the participation of extracellular‐signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and p38 kinases in MCPIP1 upregulation by MG‐132. Our findings show for the first time the impact of proteasome inhibition on MCPIP1 protein expression by modulation of the activity of intracellular signaling pathways. Overexpression of MCPIP1‐myc protein decreased the viability of HeLa cells but not HepG2 cells, which correlates with the increased susceptibility of HeLa cells to MG‐132 toxicity. Notably, both MG‐132 treatment and MCPIP1‐myc overexpression led to the activation of apoptosis, as revealed by the induction of caspases 3/7 in both types of cell lines. This suggests the involvement of MCPIP1 upregulation in toxic properties of proteasome inhibition, which is an acknowledged approach to the treatment of several cancer types.
Could some coral reefs become sponge reefs as our climate changes?
Authors: Bell James J. , Davy Simon K. , Jones Timothy , Taylor Michael W. , Webster Nicole S.
Published: April 2013

Coral reefs across the world have been seriously degraded and have a bleak future in response to predicted global warming and ocean acidification (OA). However, this is not the first time that biocalcifying organisms, including corals, have faced the threat of extinction. The end‐Triassic mass extinction (200 million years ago) was the most severe biotic crisis experienced by modern marine invertebrates, which selected against biocalcifiers; this was followed by the proliferation of another invertebrate group, sponges. The duration of this sponge‐dominated period far surpasses that of alternative stable‐ecosystem or phase‐shift states reported on modern day coral reefs and, as such, a shift to sponge‐dominated reefs warrants serious consideration as one future trajectory of coral reefs. We hypothesise that some coral reefs of today may become sponge reefs in the future, as sponges and corals respond differently to changing ocean chemistry and environmental conditions. To support this hypothesis, we discuss: (i) the presence of sponge reefs in the geological record; (ii) reported shifts from coral‐ to sponge‐dominated systems; and (iii) direct and indirect responses of the sponge holobiont and its constituent parts (host and symbionts) to changes in temperature andpH. Based on this evidence, we propose that sponges may be one group to benefit from projected climate change and ocean acidification scenarios, and that increased sponge abundance represents a possible future trajectory for some coral reefs, which would have important implications for overall reef functioning.
Closing the yield gap could reduce projected greenhouse gas emissions: a case study of maize production inChina
Authors: Cui Zhenling , Yue Shanchao , Wang Guiliang , Meng Qingfeng , Wu Liang , Yang Zhiping , Zhang Qiang , Li Shiqing , Zhang Fusuo , Chen Xinping
Published: April 2013

Although the goal of doubling food demand while simultaneously reducing agricultural environmental damage has become widely accepted, the dominant agricultural paradigm still considers high yields and reduced greenhouse gas (GHG) intensity to be in conflict with one another. Here, we achieved an increase in maize yield of 70% in on‐farm experiments by closing the yield gap and evaluated the trade‐off between grain yield, nitrogen (N) fertilizer use, andGHGemissions. Based on two groups of N application experiments in six locations for 16 on‐farm site‐years, an integrated soil‐crop system (HY) approach achieved 93% of the yield potential and averaged 14.8 Mg ha−1maize grain yield at 15.5% moisture. This is 70% higher than current crop (CC) management. More importantly, the optimal N rate for theHYsystem was 250 kg N ha−1, which is only 38% more N fertilizer input than that applied in theCCsystem. Both theN2Oemission intensity andGHGintensity increased exponentially as the N application rate increased, and the response curve for theCCsystem was always higher than that for theHYsystem. Although the N application rate increased by 38%,N2Oemission intensity and theGHGintensity of theHYsystem were reduced by 12% and 19%, respectively. These on‐farm observations indicate that closing the yield gap alongside efficient N management should therefore be prominent among a portfolio of strategies to meet food demand while reducingGHGintensity at the same time.
Case Report: Helicobacter suis Infection in a Pig Veterinarian
Authors: Joosten Myrthe , Flahou Bram , Meyns Tom , Smet Annemieke , Arts Joris , De Cooman Lien , Pasmans Frank , Ducatelle Richard , Haesebrouck Freddy
Published: April 2013

This study describes a non‐Helicobacter (H.) pylori Helicobacter (NHPH) infection in a pig veterinarian. The patient suffered from reflux esophagitis and general dyspeptic symptoms and was referred to the hospital for upper gastrointestinal endoscopy. Histologic examination of corpus and antrum biopsies revealed a chronic gastritis. Large spiral‐shaped non‐H. pylori helicobacters could be visualized and were identified as H. suis by PCR. The patient was treated with a triple therapy, consisting of amoxicillin, clarithromycin, and pantoprazole for 10 days. Successful eradication was confirmed after a follow‐up gastrointestinal endoscopy and PCR 10 weeks after treatment. A mild chronic gastritis was, however, still observed at this point in time. This case report associates porcine H. suis strains with gastric disease in humans, thus emphasizing the zoonotic importance of H. suis bacteria from pigs.
Evaluation and management of hepatic injury induced by oxaliplatin‐based chemotherapy in patients with hepatic resection for colorectal liver metastasis
Authors: Morine Yuji , Shimada Mitsuo , Utsunomiya Tohru
Published: April 2013

Patients with colorectal liver metastasis (CRLM) can be cured with surgical resection. Recent advances in systemic chemotherapy, including molecular target agents, can be used to introduce “conversion surgery” and achieve R0 resection even in patients with initially unresectable CRLM. Furthermore, neoadjuvant chemotherapy also tries to be applied in patients with resectable CRLM to maximize the remnant liver and reduce the residual micrometastasis before surgery. The development of chemotherapy‐induced hepatic injuries is increasingly being recognized, including sinusoidal obstructive syndrome (SOS), steatosis, steatohepatitis and biliary sclerosis. Especially, oxaliplatin (L‐OHP)‐based chemotherapy in clinical settings appears to be primarily associated with SOS. Various reports have tried to demonstrate the rationale of the correlation between L‐OHP‐based chemotherapy and SOS for the following hepatic surgery. While we can recognize that this pathophysiological disadvantage leads to hepatic dysfunction and the increasing postoperative morbidity, the essential part of this problem including clinical disadvantage, onset mechanism, evaluation systems, and targeted agents for prevention and treatment of SOS continue to be unclear. In this review, we summarize the current experience with hepatic injury induced by L‐OHP‐based chemotherapy, focusing on SOS‐based on clinical and experimental data, in order to assist in the resolution of these identified factors. Finally, the need for reliable methods to identify the risk of SOS, to evaluate SOS status and to predict the safety of surgical treatment in patients with chemotherapy prior to surgery will be emphasized.
Academic Staff Involvement and Openness to Diversity in International Educational Organisations: Is There a Moderating Effect of Shared Language?
Authors: Selmer Jan , Lauring Jakob , Jonasson Charlotte
Published: April 2013

Joint work among academic staff is important for solving the ever‐increasing number of complex tasks that are becoming part of everyday activities in higher education. At the same time, diversification and internationalisation may challenge collaboration processes and communication demands. Speaking a shared language consistently could be a way of overcoming problems. Hence, this study focuses on the effect of shared language among academic staff on the relation between academic staff involvement in work processes and openness to diversity. This study draws on data from 489Danish academic staff members in science departments of three universities. Results show positive associations between academic staff involvement and all openness‐to‐diversity variables (openness to informational, linguistic, value and visible diversity). Shared language had a positive effect on openness to surface level types of diversity (linguistic and visible) but no effect on openness to deep‐level types of diversity (informational and value).
The public's priorities in health services
Authors: Kaplan Giora , Baron‐Epel Orna
Published: April 2013

Background

Rationing in health services cannot be solved only by cost‐effective analysis because social values play a central role in the difficult trade‐off dilemma of prioritizing some service over others.

Objective

To examine the relative importance ascribed by the public to selected components of health services, in the national allocation of resources as well as in their personal insurance.

Methods

A telephone survey of a representative sample of the Israeli adult population (N = 1225). Two versions of the questionnaire were used. At the national level, interviewees were asked to assume they were the Minister of Health. At the personal level, interviewees were asked to choose items to be included in their personal complementary health insurance.

Results

Check‐ups for early disease detection and nursing care for the frail elderly got the highest support for extra budget as well as to be included in personal insurance. Other items presented were fertility treatments, cardiac rehabilitation, mental health, dental health, programmes for preventive medicine and health promotion, subsidizing supplemental insurance for the poor, additional staff for primary clinics and building a new hospital. The lowest support was for alternative medicine and for cosmetic surgery. No subgroup in the Israeli society presented a different first priority.

Conclusion

The Israeli public does not give high priority to ‘nice to have’ services but their selections are ‘mature’ and responsible. Rationing in health care requires listening to the public even if there are still many methodological limitations on how to reflect the public's opinion.
Palynological, physico‐chemical and organoleptic characteristics of carob tree (Ceratonia siliqua L.) honey from Sicily
Authors: Ferrauto Giovanna , Pavone Pietro
Published: April 2013

This study shows the results of melissopalynological and sensory evaluations on twenty‐five carob tree honey samples coming from Sicily and declared unifloral by the local beekeepers. This specific carob tree honey production is erratic and limited because of its cold weather spreading, depending on seasonal trends that influence both the final amount and quality of honey itself. According to the melissopalynological results on samples, a minimum of 15% carob tree pollen was considered sufficient to typify these honeys as unifloral. The physico‐chemical analysis was performed on the samples satisfying this percentage and determined the following parameters: moisture, pH, acidity, HMF, diastase activity, electrical conductivity, ash, sugar and colour. Physico‐chemical analyses showed medium to high values for diastase activity, electrical conductivity, free acidity and moisture.
Antioxidant peptides obtained from goose egg white proteins by enzymatic hydrolysis
Authors: Baratzadeh Mohammad‐Hossein , Asoodeh Ahmad , Chamani Jamshidkhan
Published: April 2013

In this study, antioxidant peptides from goose egg white proteins produced using various enzymes were purified and characterised. Two peptides were named as p14 and p16, showing the highest scavenging activity of 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical and the highest metal ion chelating activity, respectively. The sequences of p14 and p16 were identified to be STMMEERRMKVY (1560.72 Da) and DVFRELRVQ (1161.62 Da), respectively. The sequence of p14 has a similarity of 75% to ovalbumin from Meleagris gallopavo and the sequence of p16 has a similarity of 67% to ovalbumin from Taeniopygia guttata. IC50 values of p14 and p16 were determined, and results showed that DPPH radical scavenging activity was 81.6 and 205.5 μm, 2,2′‐azino‐bis(3‐ethylbenzothiazoline‐6‐sulphonicacid)(ABTS) radical scavenging was 88.4 and 153.8 μm, hydroxyl radical scavenging was 85.5 and 116.3 μm and metal ion chelating was 170.6 and 117.9 μm, respectively. The two identified peptides from goose egg white hydrolysates act as potent natural antioxidant agents.
Evaluation of Pseudomonas spp. through O2 and CO2 headspace analysis
Authors: Bevilacqua Antonio , Corbo Maria Rosaria , Martino Giuseppe , Sinigaglia Milena
Published: April 2013

This article proposes an approach to determine the level of Pseudomonas spp. in milk, based on the evaluation of the content of oxygen and carbon dioxide produced in the headspace of sealed vials; the research was divided into two phases: model building and preliminary validation. Three different strains of Pseudomonas spp., Ps. putida (wild strain) and Ps. fluorescens (wild and collection isolates), were used as targets. Data of CO2 and O2 were modelled through a modified positive (CO2) or a negative Gompertz equation (O2) to estimate the Minimum Detection Time (MDT), defined as the time to attain 3% of CO2 (MDT1) or a decrease in the content of O2 by 3% (MDT2). Then, MDT1 and MDT2 were submitted to a linear regression procedure, using cell concentration as independent variable; the correlations ‘MDT1/cell concentration’ and ‘MDT2/cell concentration’ showed high determination coefficients (>0.983). Moreover, the regression procedure pointed out that both MDT1 and MDT2 decreased by ca. 3 h for an increase in cell count of 1 log cfu mL−1. Preliminary validation in milk pointed out that the error associated with the regression line ‘MDT2/cell concentration’ was below 5%.
The role of miRNAs in mast cells and other innate immune cells
Authors: Montagner Sara , Orlandi Ester M. , Merante Serena , Monticelli Silvia
Published: April 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a large class of small regulatory molecules able to control translation of target mRNAs and consequently to regulate various biological processes at a posttranscriptional level. Their importance is highlighted by the fact that altered miRNA expression is linked to a variety of human diseases, particularly cancer. Accordingly, miRNA biogenesis itself must be carefully regulated, both transcriptionally and posttranscriptionally. Here, we focus on the role of miRNAs in three lineages of myeloid cells important in both innate and acquired immunity: mast cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells. These three cell types are strategically located throughout the body tissues, where they can respond to foreign material, danger, and inflammatory signals. We discuss the role of miRNAs in these cell types, with a special focus on three of the most extensively studied miRNAs, namely miR‐221, miR‐146a, and miR‐155. We also discuss the role of cell‐to‐cell transfer of miRNAs in dendritic cells, mast cells, and macrophages, and we speculate about possible future directions in the field.
A daunting task: manipulating leukocyte function with RNAi
Authors: Peer Dan
Published: April 2013

RNA interference (RNAi) has advanced into clinical trials. In spite of the progress made in systemic RNAi delivery to the liver and solid tumors, delivery of RNAi to leukocytes remains challenging and less advanced. Manipulating leukocyte function with RNAi holds great promise for streamlining the drug discovery process by facilitating in vivo drug target validation and for facilitating the development of RNAi‐based therapy platforms for leukocyte‐implicated diseases, such as blood cancer, inflammation, and leukocyte‐tropic viral infections. In this review, progress in delivery strategies of RNAi payloads to leukocytes, which are notoriously difficult cells to transduce with RNAi, is discussed with special emphasis on the challenges and potential opportunities for manipulating leukocyte function with RNAi.
MicroRNA function in NK‐cell biology
Authors: Beaulieu Aimee M. , Bezman Natalie A. , Lee Jang Eun , Matloubian Mehrdad , Sun Joseph C. , Lanier Lewis L.
Published: April 2013

The important role of microRNAs in directing immune responses has become increasingly clear. Here, we highlight discoveries uncovering the role of specific microRNAs in regulating the development and function of natural killer (NK) cells. Furthermore, we discuss the impact of NK cells on the entire immune system during global and specific microRNA ablation in the settings of inflammation, infection, and immune dysregulation.
Regulation of B‐cell development and function by microRNAs
Authors: de Yébenes Virginia G , Bartolomé‐Izquierdo Nahikari , Ramiro Almudena R.
Published: April 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as a new class of gene expression regulators whose functions influence a myriad of biological processes, from developmental decisions through immune responses and numerous pathologies, including cancer and autoimmunity. miRNAs are small RNA molecules that drive post‐transcriptional negative regulation of gene expression by promoting the degradation or translational block of their target mRNAs. Here, we review some of the data relating to the role of miRNAs in the regulation of the B‐cell lineage, with a special focus on results obtained in vivo. We start by giving a general overview of miRNA activity, including the issue of target specificity and the experimental approaches more widely used to analyze the function of these molecules. We then go on to discuss the function of miRNAs during B‐cell differentiation in the bone marrow and in the periphery as well as during the humoral immune response. Finally, we describe a few examples of the contribution of miRNAs, both as oncogenes and tumor suppressors, to the development of B‐cell neoplasias.
Exploring the RNA world in hematopoietic cells through the lens of RNA‐binding proteins
Authors: Yuan Joan , Muljo Stefan A.
Published: April 2013

The discovery of microRNAs has renewed interest in posttranscriptional modes of regulation, fueling an emerging view of a rich RNA world within our cells that deserves further exploration. Much work has gone into elucidating genetic regulatory networks that orchestrate gene expression programs and direct cell fate decisions in the hematopoietic system. However, the focus has been to elucidate signaling pathways and transcriptional programs. To bring us one step closer to reverse engineering the molecular logic of cellular differentiation, it will be necessary to map posttranscriptional circuits as well and integrate them in the context of existing network models. In this regard, RNA‐binding proteins (RBPs) may rival transcription factors as important regulators of cell fates and represent a tractable opportunity to connect the RNA world to the proteome. ChIP‐seq has greatly facilitated genome‐wide localization of DNA‐binding proteins, helping us to understand genomic regulation at a systems level. Similarly, technological advances such as CLIP‐seq allow transcriptome‐wide mapping of RBP binding sites, aiding us to unravel posttranscriptional networks. Here, we review RBP‐mediated posttranscriptional regulation, paying special attention to findings relevant to the immune system. As a prime example, we highlight the RBP Lin28B, which acts as a heterochronic switch between fetal and adult lymphopoiesis.
MicroRNA regulation of T‐cell development
Authors: Dooley James , Linterman Michelle A. , Liston Adrian
Published: April 2013

MicroRNAs are short, 19–24 nucleotide long, RNA molecules capable of regulating the longevity and, to a lesser extent, translation of messenger RNA (mRNA) species. The function of the microRNA network, and indeed, even that of individual microRNA species, can have profoundly different roles in even a single cell type as the microRNA/mRNA composition evolves. As the role of microRNA within T cells has come under increasing scrutiny, several distinct checkpoints have been demonstrated to have a particular reliance on microRNA regulation. MicroRNAs are arguably most important in T cells during the earliest and last stages in T‐cell biology. The first stages of early thymic differentiation have a crucial reliance on the microRNA network, while later stages and peripheral homeostasis are largely, although not completely, microRNA‐independent. The most profound effects on T cells are in the activation of effector and regulatory functions of conventional and regulatory T cells, where microRNA deficiency results in a near‐complete loss of function. In this review, we focus on integrating the research on individual microRNA into a more global understanding of the function of the microRNA regulatory network in T cells.
RNA‐based mechanisms regulating host–virus interactions
Authors: Zhou Rui , Rana Tariq M.
Published: April 2013

RNA interference (RNAi) is an ancient process by which non‐coding RNAs regulate gene expression in a sequence‐specific manner. The core components of RNAi are small regulatory RNAs, approximately 21–30 nucleotides in length, including small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs). The past two decades have seen considerable progress in our understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying the biogenesis of siRNAs and miRNAs. Recent advances have also revealed the crucial regulatory roles played by small RNAs in such diverse processes as development, homeostasis, innate immunity, and oncogenesis. Accumulating evidence indicates that RNAi initially evolved as a host defense mechanism against viruses and transposons. The ability of the host small RNA biogenesis machinery to recognize viral double‐stranded RNA replication intermediates and transposon transcripts is critical to this process, as is small RNA‐guided targeting of RNAs via complementary base pairing. Collectively, these properties confer unparalleled specificity and precision to RNAi‐mediated gene silencing as an effective antiviral mechanism.
Role of microRNAs and long‐non‐coding RNAs in CD4+ T‐cell differentiation
Authors: Pagani Massimiliano , Rossetti Grazisa , Panzeri Ilaria , de Candia Paola , Bonnal Raoul J. P. , Rossi Riccardo L. , Geginat Jens , Abrignani Sergio
Published: April 2013

CD4+ T lymphocytes orchestrate adaptive immune responses by differentiating into various subsets of effector T cells such as T‐helper 1 (Th1), Th2, Th17, and regulatory T cells. These subsets have been generally described by master transcription factors that dictate the expression of cytokines and receptors, which ultimately define lymphocyte effector functions. However, the view of T‐lymphocyte subsets as stable and terminally differentiated lineages has been challenged by increasing evidence of functional plasticity within CD4+ T‐cell subsets, which implies flexible programming of effector functions depending on time and space of T‐cell activation. An outstanding question with broad basic and traslational implications relates to the mechanisms, besides transcriptional regulation, which define the plasticity of effector functions. In this study, we discuss the emerging role of regulatory non‐coding RNAs in T‐cell differentiation and plasticity. Not only microRNAs have been proven to be important for CD4+ T‐cell differentiation, but it is also likely that the overall T‐cell functioning is the result of a multilayered network composed by coding RNAs as well as by short and long non‐coding RNAs. The integrated study of all the nodes of this network will provide a comprehensive view of the molecular mechanisms underlying T‐cell functions in health and disease.
Regulation of immune responses and tolerance: the microRNA perspective
Authors: Chen Chang‐Zheng , Schaffert Steven , Fragoso Rita , Loh Christina
Published: April 2013

Much has been learned about the molecular and cellular components critical for the control of immune responses and tolerance. It remains a challenge, however, to control the immune response and tolerance at the system level without causing significant toxicity to normal tissues. Recent studies suggest that microRNA (miRNA) genes, an abundant class of non‐coding RNA genes that produce characteristic approximately 22 nucleotides small RNAs, play important roles in immune cells. In this article, we discuss emerging knowledge regarding the functions of miRNA genes in the immune system. We delve into the roles of miRNAs in regulating signaling strength and threshold, homeostasis, and the dynamics of the immune response and tolerance during normal and pathogenic immunological conditions. We also present observations based on analyzes of miR‐181 family genes that indicate the potential functions of primary and/or precursor miRNAs in target recognition and explore the impact of these findings on target identification. Finally, we illustrate that despite the subtle effects of miRNAs on gene expression, miRNAs have the potential to influence the outcomes of normal and pathogenic immune responses by controlling the quantitative and dynamic aspects of immune responses. Tuning miRNA functions in immune cells, through gain‐ and loss‐of‐function approaches in mice, may reveal novel approach to restore immune equilibrium from pathogenic conditions, such as autoimmune disease and leukemia, without significant toxicity.
MicroRNA regulation of T‐cell differentiation and function
Authors: Jeker Lukas T. , Bluestone Jeffrey A.
Published: April 2013

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are emerging as key controllers of T‐cell differentiation and function. Their expression is dynamically regulated by extracellular signals such as costimulation and cytokine signals. miRNAs set thresholds for gene expression and optimize protein concentrations of genetic networks. Absence of individual miRNAs can lead to severe immune dysfunction. In this study, we review emerging principles and provide examples of important functions exerted by miRNAs. Although our understanding of miRNA function in T‐cell differentiation is still rudimentary, the available evidence leaves no doubt that these small post‐transcriptional regulators are indispensable for proper functioning of the immune system.
Nurse practitioner job satisfaction: looking for successful outcomes
Authors: Pasarón Raquel
Published: April 2013

Aims and objectives

To examine overall job satisfaction and its association with extrinsic and intrinsic characteristics of job satisfaction among nurse practitioners at the chosen practice site. The objectives were to identify relevant retention and recruitment strategies, from the nurse practitioners perspective, by examining (1) what role aspects are most satisfying, and (2) approaches for successful, professional development and integration in the role.

Background

Supportive professional practice environments are particularly important to nurses’ satisfaction with their work and the quality of patient care provided. Hence, research that examines nurse practitioners practice implications and barriers in today's healthcare system is essential.

Design/Methods

A descriptive‐correlational design using survey methodology. A nonprobability sample of convenience was used. The outcome measures were: The Misener Nurse Practitioner Job Satisfaction Scale and two investigator‐developed surveys.

Results

Participants expressed dissatisfaction with professional and monetary recognition, assertive influence, administrative support and collegial relationships.

Conclusions

Interaction of subscale factors on overall job satisfaction and demographic survey findings has important implications for health administrators and nurse practitioners in similar organisations.

Relevance to clinical practice

Stakeholders in healthcare milieus need to be fully engaged in the redesign of the American healthcare system heeding the recommendations of the Institute of Medicine to provide safer health systems to the public. By doing this, issues related to frustration by nurse practitioners related to job satisfaction will be addressed. The need for cooperation, participation, collaboration and instrumental communication are essential in the delivery of safe, quality patient care. A better understanding of intrinsic professional rewards needs to be learned by nurse practitioners who want to seek professional satisfaction and engage in the survival and growth of the profession. Nurse practitioners armed with this translational information have viable agenda items that can be negotiated into extrinsic rewards.
Alcohol self‐presentation: the role of impression motivation and impression construction
Authors: O'Grady Megan A.
Published: April 2013

Two studies examined impression motivation (IM) and impression construction (IC) processes in college freshman alcohol use. In both studies, students completed individual difference measures related to IM and alcohol IC. In Study 1 (n = 232), participants were assigned to IM (low vs. high) and IC (alcohol vs. control) conditions and then created a personal profile. In Study 2 (n = 65), participants reported levels of IM and alcohol IC, and number of drinks during each evening's social interactions for 3 weeks. Situational alcohol IC was positively related to whether participants presented themselves as an alcohol user in their profile (Study 1) and in the amount they drank (Study 2). In Study 2, the association between IC and drinking was moderated by IM.
The unlikely Samaritans
Authors: Babula Michael W.
Published: April 2013

The helping motivations of wealth‐driven college students were investigated. Tang et al. argues that wealth‐driven individuals are extrinsically motivated, and that extrinsic motivation negatively relates to helping behavior. The results of questionnaires and experimentation here contradict the recent literature. Seventy‐two percent of subjects reported wealth as a top priority in life. Fifty‐six percent of subjects would take an insider trading tip, and 78% of subjects offered help to a confederate who just learned his family member was in an accident and needed to make a telephone call. Logistic regression results showed intrinsic motivation among participants significantly predicted increased helping behavior. It is recommended that surveys used to create new paradigms be followed up with experimentation whenever feasible.
Are Christian/religious people poor tippers?
Authors: Lynn Michael , Katz Benjamin
Published: April 2013

A web‐based survey was used to assess the relationships of religious faith and frequency of church attendance with tipping under conditions of good and bad service. Results indicated that Jews and those with no religion tipped more than Christians and members of other religions, but that the vast majority of Christians tipped at or above the normative 15% of bill size. Worship frequency also significantly interacted with service quality such that the tips of those who frequently worship vary with service quality less than the tips of those who worship less frequently. The practical implications of these results for service workers and restaurants or other service businesses with a large religious clientele are discussed.
When is risk relevant? An assessment of the characteristics mountain climbers associate with eight types of climbing
Authors: Lockwood Nina , Sparks Paul
Published: April 2013

Research concerned with the experiences and motivations of people who participate in mountain climbing tends to overlook the varied nature of this pursuit, with comparisons between different types of climbing only occasionally receiving attention. Accordingly, the present study (N = 207) sought to examine representations of a broad range of different types of climbing. Of particular interest was the notion of risk. Principal component analyses for each type of climbing revealed “challenge,” “risk,” “enjoyment,” and “perspective and self‐reflection” components. Attitudes toward participation were regressed on these components. Although the results revealed significant differences between the ratings of risk reported for the different types of climbing, risk had limited predictive impact on attitudes.
Personality and the perception of situation structure in a military environment: seeking sensation versus structure as a soldier
Authors: Parmak Merle , Mylle Jacques J. C. , Euwema Martin C.
Published: April 2013

In this article, we explore the role of two narrow personality traits, Sensation Seeking and Need for Structure, in soldiers’ situational perception in a military task‐environment. In the first study, we assess the psychometric qualities of the personality inventories, Sensation Seeking Scale‐V and Personal Need for Structure, in an Estonian military sample. In the second study, we explore how these traits are related to soldiers’ perception of complexity (predictability) and potential harms involved (riskiness; defined as situation structure) in two field exercise tasks. We found that both of the explored personality traits are significantly and inversely related with soldiers’ perception of situation structure in a military environment. Implications for personnel selection, training, and performance of military organizations are discussed.
Categorization of Thai Fish Sauce Based on Aroma Characteristics
Authors: Wichaphon Jetsada , Posri Wilatsana , Assavanig Apinya , Thongthai Chaufah , Lertsiri Sittiwat
Published: April 2013

Sensory descriptive analysis was performed on 52 Thai fish sauce samples by 15 trained panelists, with an intention to explore the aroma profiles and to correlate with their total nitrogen (TN) contents, which is conventionally used as a general standard for commercial product grading. Thai fish sauce aroma characteristics could be exemplified through eight descriptive attributes. Sweet, meaty and cheesy odors presented overall characteristics of Thai fish sauce, while salty and anchovy‐like odors were noticeably perceived due to their high intensity in fish sauce. Aroma intensity of three attributes including sour, shrimp paste‐like and fishy odors could categorize Thai fish sauce samples into two groups, i.e., high‐TN and low‐TN groups. This categorization was also observed when rating scores of the intensity of these eight odor attributes were applied on principal component analysis (PCA). Moreover, total volatile basic‐nitrogen and pH of the samples were applied on PCA to better explain the contribution of aroma attributes to fish sauce products.

Practical Applications

Thailand is a major producer of fish sauce; hence, varieties of product qualities are available in the market. Generally, the products are graded in accordance to its total nitrogen (TN) content. However, manufacturers could distinguish the product quality based on its aroma profile. On the other hand, prices of products are based on TN and their characteristic aroma that consumers can perceive. The finding in this study would be applicable to fish sauce quality standardization based on aroma profiles that are correlated to conventional TN grading, as well as conservation of product authenticity.
Body mass index in adult patients with diet‐treated phenylketonuria
Authors: Robertson L. V. , McStravick N. , Ripley S. , Weetch E. , Donald S. , Adam S. , Micciche A. , Boocock S. , MacDonald A.
Published: April 2013

Background

There is an increasing number of adults with phenylketonuria (PKU) on a low phenylalanine diet. In the general population, an increasing body mass index (BMI) in the UK is a major problem with associated co‐morbidities. The present study aimed to identify whether patients with diet‐treated PKU have obesity rates comparable to those in the general population.

Methods

Two hundred and thirty‐six PKU subjects (49% male, 51% female), aged >16 years, who were diagnosed by newborn screening and were receiving a low phenylalanine diet, were identified from seven metabolic centres in the UK. Retrospective data were collated on age, sex, BMI and mean phenylalanine concentration over the previous 12 months.

Results

Mean (SD) phenylalanine concentration for all 236 subjects was 789 (311) μm; mean (SD) BMI was 26 (5.4) kg m−2 [males 25 (4.3) kg m−2, females 27 (6.2) kg m−2]; mean (SD) age was 26 (7) years; and 55% had a BMI > 25 kg m−2. The percentage of subjects with a BMI >25 kg m−2 and >30 kg m−2, as well as increasing obesity with age, was similar to the UK population. A correlation was observed between increasing BMI and a higher phenylalanine concentration (r = 0.243, P = 0.001).

Conclusions

The number of overweight and obese patients with diet‐treated PKU in the UK is a concern. This could lead to other obesity‐related complications increasing the complexity of diet and the cost of their care. There is a need to educate patients with respect to adopting a healthy, low phenylalanine diet and lifestyle to prevent further rises in BMI.