bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) pathway-mediated enhancement of human cytomegalovirus replication correlates with a recruitment of SUMO-1/3 proteins to viral replication compartments
Authors: Scherer Myriam , Reuter Nina , Wagenknecht Nadine , Otto Victoria , Sticht Heinrich , Stamminger Thomas
Published: February 2013

Recent studies have suggested that the small ubiquitin-related modifier (SUMO) conjugation pathway may play an important role in intrinsic antiviral resistance and thus for repression of herpesviral infections. In particular, it was shown that the herpes simplex virus type-1 regulatory protein ICP0 acts as a SUMO-targeted ubiquitin ligase (STUbL), inducing the widespread degradation of SUMO-conjugated proteins during infection. As the IE1 protein of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is known to mediate a de-SUMOylation of PML, we investigated whether HCMV uses a similar mechanism to counteract intrinsic antiviral resistance. We generated primary human fibroblasts stably expressing FLAG-SUMO-1 or FLAG-SUMO-3 and analysed the SUMOylation pattern after HCMV infection or isolated IE1 expression. However, Western blot experiments did not reveal a global loss of SUMO conjugates, either in HCMV-infected or in IE1-expressing cells, arguing against a function of IE1 as an STUbL. Interestingly, we observed that FLAG-SUMO-1 and FLAG-SUMO-3, subsequent to IE1-mediated promyelocytic leukemia protein (PML) de-SUMOylation and the consequent disruption of PML nuclear bodies, were recruited into viral replication compartments. This raised the question of whether FLAG-SUMO-1/3 might promote HCMV replication. Intriguingly, overexpression of FLAG-SUMO-1/3 enhanced accumulation of viral DNA, which correlated with an increase in viral replication and in virus particle release. Together, these data indicate that HCMV, in contrast to other herpesviruses, has evolved subtle mechanisms enabling it to utilize the SUMO conjugation pathway for its own benefit, resulting in an overall positive effect of SUMO conjugation for HCMV replication.
Anisotropic elastic moduli of carbonates and evaporites from the Weyburn‐Midale reservoir and seal rocks
Authors: Martínez Jaime Meléndez , Schmitt Douglas R.
Published: February 2013

Assuming Vertical Transverse Isotropy (VTI) symmetry the elastic anisotropy as a function of confining pressure of four carbonates and one evaporite from the Williston sedimentary basin in Saskatchewan, Canada is investigated using the ultrasonic pulse transmission method. Ultrasonic P‐ and S‐ wave velocities are obtained from cylindrical plugs cut from a main sample along horizontal, vertical and 45° orientations with respect to the sample's presumed vertical axis of symmetry. The elastic constants were then calculated from the measured velocities and densities. Anisotropy was quantified by estimating Thomsen parameters (Thomsen 1986) from elastic constants. The results show that the samples are at the best weakly anisotropic. The presence of microcracks and pores as well as the heterogeneity of the samples play an important role in defining the P‐ and S‐ wave velocities. The weak anisotropy found in these samples suggests that ‘intrinsic’ properties of these rocks negligibly contribute to the anisotropy observed at the seismic scale.
Investigating Private Motorised Travel and Vehicle Fleet Efficiency: Using New Data and Methods to Reveal Socio‐Spatial Patterns in Brisbane, Australia
Authors: LI TIEBEI , SIPE NEIL , DODSON JAGO
Published: February 2013

Australian cities have seen continued long‐term growth in private motor vehicle travel that has imposed increasing vehicle energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This paper investigates the spatial patterns of vehicle energy consumption on urban areas through an analysis of vehicle travel and of vehicle fleet efficiency in Brisbane, Australia. This is achieved by combining motor vehicle registration records and Australian government's ‘Green Vehicle Guide’ of vehicle fuel efficiency database. The results of a spatial analysis of the private vehicle trip distances derived from journey to work data and fuel energy consumption associated with the private‐owned vehicles decomposed to local areas show that private vehicle energy use tends to increase with increasing distance from the city centre (e.g. central business district). This analysis demonstrates that differences in vehicle trip distances and lower proportions of high‐efficiency vehicles in the outer suburbs aggravate vehicle energy consumption in those locations. The paper further compares vehicle energy use results for Brisbane against spatial patterns of suburban socio‐economic disadvantage. The paper demonstrates that access to vehicle fleet technology may compound other forms of socio‐economic disadvantage and vulnerability.
Practice implications for preventing population vulnerability related to vitamin D status
Authors: Collins Andrea
Published: February 2013

Purpose

To provide primary care clinicians with practice recommendations for the safe, individualized, effective, efficient evaluation, and treatment of vitamin D status for maximum health promotion and disease prevention.

Data sources

A review and synthesis of current scientific literature on vitamin D was conducted related to the physiologic impact of vitamin D, topics of debate, research and recommendations, adequate serum levels, daily supplementation, and deficiency treatment.

Conclusions

Inadequate vitamin D levels are not isolated to any one geographic, ethnic, or socioeconomic population, and exist without regard to gender, age, or health status. Conflicting vitamin D evidence and recommendations may leave patients vulnerable to vitamin D inadequacy, deficiency, or excess, and in turn, avoidable negative outcomes.

Implications for NPs

Nurse practitioners (NPs) must actively assess patient vitamin D status and educate patients in order to prevent negative health outcomes. Maintaining adequate vitamin D levels is an easy and cost‐efficient adjunct to other health promotion and disease prevention measures. NPs who neglect the physiologic roles of vitamin D and potential patient vulnerability miss an opportunity to make an impact in both patient health and the economic healthcare burden related to acute and chronic disease.
Impact of Intensive Lipid Lowering on Lipid Profiles Over Time and Tolerability in Stable Coronary Artery Disease: Insights From a Subanalysis of the Coronary Atherosclerosis Study Measuring Effects of Rosuvastatin Using Intravascular Ultrasound in Japanese Subjects (COSMOS)
Authors: Kawashiri Masa‐aki , Yamagishi Masakazu , Sakamoto Tomohiro , Takayama Tadateru , Hiro Takafumi , Daida Hiroyuki , Hirayama Atsushi , Saito Satoshi , Yamaguchi Tetsu , Matsuzaki Masunori ,   the COSMOS Investigators
Published: February 2013

Background

Previous studies have demonstrated that intensive lipid lowering using rosuvastatin results in regression of coronary plaques. However, few data exist regarding lipid profiles over time, drug tolerability, and the effects of prior use of lipid lowering agents in patients on rosuvastatin treatment. Therefore, we studied these matters in a subanalysis of the Coronary Atherosclerosis Study Measuring Effects of Rosuvastatin Using Intravascular Ultrasound in Japanese Subjects (COSMOS).

Methods

Rosuvastatin was titrated for 76 weeks to attain LDL‐C < 80 mg/dL in 213 Japanese dyslipidemic patients with CAD. Clinic visits were scheduled for every 4 weeks during the 76‐week study period. Changes over time in lipid parameters, changes in those according to prior lipid‐lowering therapy, and changes in those according to baseline lipid levels were evaluated in this subanalysis.

Results

Overall, 126 patients completed the study. The mean rosuvastatin dose at the last observation carried forward was 16.9 mg (range, 2.5–20 mg). Rosuvastatin significantly increased HDL‐C, lowered LDL‐C, and improved the LDL‐C/HDL‐C ratio (all, P < 0.0001). Increases in serum HDL‐C levels were significantly greater in patients with HDL‐C < 40 mg/dL than in those with HDL‐C ≥ 40 mg/dL at baseline (P = 0.0005). The estimated glomerular filtration rate increased significantly by 2.84 ± 9.01 mL/min/1.73 m2 (P < 0.0001). Of 166 adverse events in 74 patients, 113 events in 54 patients were laboratory values beyond the normal range.

Conclusion

Rosuvastatin significantly improved lipid profiles, with an acceptable safety profile, contributing to plaque regression in Japanese patients with CAD.
Effectiveness of Internet‐based cognitive behaviour therapy for panic disorder in routine psychiatric care
Authors: Hedman E. , Ljótsson B. , Rück C. , Bergström J. , Andersson G. , Kaldo V. , Jansson L. , Andersson E. , Andersson E. , Blom K. , El Alaoui S. , Falk L. , Ivarsson J. , Nasri B. , Rydh S. , Lindefors N.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Guided Internet‐based cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) for panic disorder has been shown to be efficacious in several randomized controlled trials. However, the effectiveness of the treatment when delivered within routine psychiatric care has not been studied. The aim of this study was to investigate the effectiveness of ICBT for panic disorder within the context of routine psychiatric care.

Method

We conducted a cohort study investigating all patients (n = 570) who had received guided ICBT for panic disorder between 2007 and 2012 in a routine care setting at an out‐patient psychiatric clinic providing Internet‐based treatment. The primary outcome measure was the Panic Disorder Severity Scale‐Self‐report (PDSS‐SR).

Results

Participants made large improvements from screening and pretreatment assessments to posttreatment (Cohen's d range on the PDSS‐SR = 1.07–1.55). Improvements were sustained at 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusion

This study suggests that ICBT for panic disorder is as effective when delivered in a routine care context as in the previously published randomized controlled trials.
Standardization of the Maristán Scale of Informal Care in people with schizophrenia and other psychoses
Authors: Saldivia S. , Torres‐Gonzalez F. , Runte‐Geidel A. , Xavier M. , Grandon P. , Antonioli C. , Ballester D. , Gibbons R. , Melipillan R. , Caldas J. M. , Vicente B. , Galende E. , King M.
Published: February 2013

Objective

No instrument has been developed and validated across cultures to measure the degree of support provided by informal carers to people with schizophrenia. We aimed to develop such a measure.

Method

The Maristán Scale of Informal Care was developed directly from the views of patients with schizophrenia in six countries. Face‐to‐face interviews were carried out with participants and 103 were repeated after 30 days. Principal Axis Factoring followed by Promax rotation evaluated the structure of the scale. Horn's parallel combined with bootstrapping determined the number of factors. Cronbach's alpha estimated the scale's internal consistency and intra‐class correlation its test‐retest reliability.

Results

A total of 164 interviews were undertaken, 103 with re‐test. The Horn's Parallel Analysis and the analysis of the Promax rotation revealed one factor. Cronbach's alpha was 0.89. Intra‐class correlation coefficient was 0.56 (95% CI 0.42–0.68) and this increased to 0.64 (95% CI 0.51–0.75) after removing two outlying values. Patients from Argentina recorded the lowest scores (poor informal support/care).

Conclusion

The Maristán Scale of Informal Care is a reliable instrument to assess the degree of support provided by informal carers to people with schizophrenia across cultures. A confirmatory factor analysis is needed to evaluate the stability of its factor structure.
Clinical symptoms of psychotic episodes and 25‐hydroxy vitamin D serum levels in black first‐generation immigrants
Authors: Dealberto M.‐J.
Published: February 2013

Objective

Dark‐skinned immigrants have a higher risk for schizophrenia and other psychoses than other immigrants. The first British studies reported that first‐generation immigrants (FGIs) from the Caribbean presented atypical psychoses. This study examines the characteristics of psychotic episodes in black FGIs to Canada.

Method

The charts of 18 FGIs from Africa and Haiti, extracted from a series of 20 black patients consecutively admitted to Psychiatry, were retrospectively reviewed regarding clinical features, diagnoses and vitamin D levels.

Results

Young FGIs presented acute psychotic episodes with abrupt onset, florid positive symptoms, few negative symptoms and good evolution. The onset was more insidious in older FGIs. Overall, catatonia was very frequent (28%), and mood symptoms still more frequent (44%). No cognitive decline was observed during follow‐up. Serum levels of 25‐hydroxy vitamin D were in the insufficiency range. Supplementation at 1000 IU/day did not restore normal levels.

Conclusion

The clinical features of psychotic episodes in black FGIs are similar to those reported in dark‐skinned FGIs to other countries. They are also observed in other immigrants and in non‐immigrants. These atypical psychoses are possibly related to a recent vitamin D deficit. This hypothesis should be tested by clinical trials of sufficient vitamin D supplementation.
Morphology of the Dentin Structure of Sloths Bradypus tridactylus: A Light and Scanning Electron Microscopy Investigation
Authors: Santana L. N. S. , Barbosa L. V. M. , Teixeira F. B. , Costa A. M. P. , Fernandes L. M. P. , Lima R. R.
Published: February 2013

The aim of this study was to describe the dentine morphology of sloths (Bradypus tridactylus). The sloth teeth were removed and prepared for light microscopy (LM) and scanning electron microscopy analyses (SEM). LM revealed two patterns of tubular dentins: an outer with dentinary tubules over the all tooth length and one in the inner part with larger diameter and more spaced tubules, when compared to those present in the outer dentine. These findings were confirmed by SEM, which revealed a tubular pattern in the outer dentine like in humans. The inner dentine displayed pared grouped tubules that were characterized as vascular channels. It can be concluded that this sloth species present two types of dentins: an inner dentin (ortodentin) and an outer dentin characterized as a vascular dentin. This suggests a partial evolutive/adaptive process of this dental tissue, as compared to other mammalian species.
Comparative Evaluation of the Cadaveric and Computed Tomographic Features of the Coelomic Cavity in the Green Iguana (Iguana iguana), Black and White Tegu (Tupinambis merianae) and Bearded Dragon (Pogona vitticeps)
Authors: Banzato T. , Selleri P. , Veladiano I. A. , Zotti A.
Published: February 2013

Contrast‐enhanced computed tomographic studies of the coelomic cavity in four green iguanas, four black and white tegus and four bearded dragons were performed using a conventional CT scanner. Anatomical reference cross sections were obtained from four green iguana, four black and white tegu and six bearded dragon cadavers; the specimens were stored in a −20°C freezer for 24 h then sliced into 5‐mm intervals. The frozen sections were cleaned with water and photographed on both sides. The individual anatomical structures were identified by means of the available literature; these were labelled first on the anatomical images and then matched to the corresponding computed tomography images. The results provide an atlas of the normal cross‐sectional and computed tomographic anatomy of the coelomic cavity in the green iguana, the black and white tegu and the bearded dragon, which is useful in the interpretation of any imaging modality.
Alternative Recruitment Strategies Influence Saliva Sample Return Rates in Community‐Based Genetic Association Studies
Authors: Bhutta Mahmood F. , Hobson Lindsey , Lambie Jane , Scaman Elizabeth S. H. , Burton Martin J. , Giele Henk , Jamieson Sarra E. , Furniss Dominic
Published: February 2013

Collection of saliva for DNA extraction has created new opportunities to recruit participants from the community for genetic association studies. However, sample return rates are variable. No prior study has specifically addressed how study design impacts sample return. Using data from three large‐scale genetic association studies we compared recruitment strategy and sample return rates. We found highly significant differences in sample return rates between the studies. In studies that recruited retrospectively, overall returns were much lower from families with a self‐limiting condition who provided samples at a research centre or home visit, than adult elderly individuals with a chronic disease who provided samples by post (59% vs. 84%). Prospective recruitment was associated with high agreement to participate (72%), but subsequent low return of actual saliva samples (42%). A telephone call had marginal effect on recruitment in a retrospective family study, but significantly improved returns in a prospective family study. We found no effect upon DNA yield comparing observed versus unobserved sample collection, or between male and female adult participants. Overall, study design significantly impacts upon response rates for genetic association studies recruiting from the community. Our findings will help researchers in constructing and costing a recruitment protocol.
Prediction of successful expectant management of first trimester miscarriage: Development and validation of a new mathematical model
Authors: Casikar Ishwari , Lu Chuan , Reid Shannon , Condous George
Published: February 2013

Objective

To generate and evaluate a new logistic regression model for the prediction of successful expectant management of first trimester miscarriage.

Methods

Data were collected prospectively from women diagnosed with 1st trimester miscarriage. Clinical and ultrasonographic variables were recorded for multivariate analysis. Clinically stable women who were managed expectantly were followed up for two weeks until the outcome was established: success or failure. A multinomial logistic regression (MLR) model was developed on 186 training cases for the prediction of successful expectant management and tested prospectively on a further 126 cases. The performance of the model was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve as well as in terms of sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV) and negative predictive value (NPV).

Results

Two thousand and forty eight consecutive first trimester women underwent TVS. Complete data from 312 (15.2%) women with miscarriage managed expectantly were included in the final analysis. The most important independent prognostic variables for the MLR model were as follows: type of miscarriage at primary scan, vaginal bleeding and maternal age. When developed retrospectively on a training data set, MLR model gave an area under the ROC curve (AUC) of 0.796. Prospective validation of MLR model on a new test data set resulted in an AUC of 0.803.

Conclusion

We have developed and validated a new mathematical model to predict successful management of first trimester miscarriage.
On the well‐being of adult expremies in Denmark
Authors: Ulrich Marianne , Mortensen Erik Lykke , Jensen Claus , Kamper Jens
Published: February 2013

Aim

To study health, well‐being in daily life, educational level and socio‐economic status in adulthood in moderately premature infants and the relationship to gender and socio‐economic status at birth.

Methods

Prospective long‐term follow‐up study of a cohort of infants with a gestational age between 32 and 37 weeks and term controls born between January 1972 and June 1973 in the municipality of Odense in Denmark. Information about life circumstances at 32 years was acquired by a mailed questionnaire.

Results

The study comprised 373 participants aged 31–32 years (56% of the original cohort). Questionnaires were returned by 69 participants who were born moderately premature and 304 participants who were born at term (53 and 57%, respectively, of the original cohort). Multivariate analysis showed that social status and level of education at 32 years were predicted by social status and maternal educational level at birth with no demonstrable effects due to gestation or gender.

Conclusion

Moderately premature infants, born before the era of intensive care, at the age of 32 years with regard to health, quality of life, education and social status proved to fare as well as their term counterparts.
Investigation of novel genes for lung function in children and their interaction with tobacco smoke exposure: a preliminary report
Authors: Panasevich Sviatlana , Melén Erik , Hallberg Jenny , Bergström Anna , Svartengren Magnus , Pershagen Göran , Nyberg Fredrik
Published: February 2013

Aim

To replicate newly reported single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) associations with adult lung function in a cohort of children and to investigate interactions with tobacco smoke exposure on lung function.

Methods

Of 37 reported SNPs in adults, 21 were available in our genome‐wide association study data set, either directly genotyped or as proxy SNPs. We tested for association with lung function (FEV1, FVC, FEV1/FVC%) in 8‐year‐old children and analysed interaction with tobacco smoke exposure both prenatally and/or during infancy, as well as at the age of 8 years.

Results

SNPs in TNS1, ADAM19, THSD4 and ADCY2 showed significant association with lung function in children, although ADCY2 variants not in the expected direction. For example, variant allele A in THSD4 rs12899618 was associated with 50.2 mL higher FEV1 (p = 0.007) and variant allele C in ADAM19 rs2277027 with 1% unit lower FEV1/FVC% (p = 0.03) per allele. DAAM2 rs2395730 showed interaction with current tobacco smoke exposure, with variant C allele associated with 1.3% unit decrease in FEV1/FVC% in exposed children, but not in unexposed (p for interaction 0.04).

Conclusion

Our data replicate in children an association for TNS1, ADAM19, THSD4 and ADCY2 gene variants with lung function and suggest that interaction with tobacco smoke exposure may be of importance.
Stigma, Halo Effects, and Threats to Ideology: Comment on The Fewer the Merrier?
Authors: Day Martin V.
Published: February 2013

Comment on Conley, Moors, Matsick, and Ziegler (2012). Grounded in prior research, a framework is proposed that builds upon the authors’ findings and outlines a perspective to organize future research directions. In particular, the violation of committed relationship ideology is suggested to help explain, in part, negative perceptions of consensual nonmonogamous (CNM) relationships, as well as less favorable views of singles, and other non‐normative relationships. This broader conceptual view of the authors’ findings encourages both future research on CNM relationships as well as further understanding of related phenomena stemming from relationship ideology.
Design and Estimation for Evaluating Principal Surrogate Markers in Vaccine Trials
Authors: Huang Ying , Gilbert Peter B. , Wolfson Julian
Published: February 2013

In vaccine research, immune biomarkers that can reliably predict a vaccine's effect on the clinical endpoint (i.e., surrogate markers) are important tools for guiding vaccine development. This article addresses issues on optimizing two‐phase sampling study design for evaluating surrogate markers in a principal surrogate framework, motivated by the design of a future HIV vaccine trial. To address the problem of missing potential outcomes in a standard trial design, novel trial designs have been proposed that utilize baseline predictors of the immune response biomarker(s) and/or augment the trial by vaccinating uninfected placebo recipients at the end of the trial and measuring their immune biomarkers. However, inefficient use of the augmented information can lead to counter‐intuitive results on the precision of estimation. To remedy this problem, we propose a pseudo‐score type estimator suitable for the augmented design and characterize its asymptotic properties. This estimator has superior performance compared with existing estimators and allows calculation of analytical variances useful for guiding study design. Based on the new estimator we investigate in detail the problem of optimizing the sampling scheme of a biomarker in a vaccine efficacy trial for efficiently estimating its surrogate effect, as characterized by the vaccine efficacy curve (a causal effect predictiveness curve) and by the predicted overall vaccine efficacy using the biomarker.
Heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia following hip and knee arthroplasty
Authors: Craik Johnathan D. , Cobb Andrew G.
Published: February 2013

Until recently, both the British Society for Haematology and American College of Chest Physicians recommended platelet monitoring in all surgical patients receiving prophylactic low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) for the early diagnosis of heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). These guidelines were reversed in 2012 based upon an analysis considering resource expenditure, assay result timeframes, and complications relating to HIT treatment. However, there are no large studies reviewing lower limb arthroplasty patients on an individual basis to determine the incidence of HIT in this patient group. This study investigated 10 797 patients who underwent primary hip or knee arthroplasty with LMWH prophylaxis over a 5 years period. 32·6% of patients (n = 3515) had platelet counts recorded up to 14 d postoperatively with 13 patients (0·37%) developing thrombocytopenia. Platelet counts recovered spontaneously in five patients, and two patients had other identifiable causes. Only one of the remaining six patients developed thrombosis indicating an incidence of HIT‐related thrombosis of 0·03%. The potential for identifying HIT with platelet monitoring in patients receiving LMWH prophylaxis is low and therefore routine monitoring for HIT is not justified.
The molecular characterization of von Willebrand disease: good in parts
Authors: James P.D. , Lillicrap D.
Published: February 2013

Since the cloning of the gene that encodes von Willebrand factor (VWF), 27 years ago, significant progress has been made in our understanding of the molecular basis of the most common inherited bleeding disorder, von Willebrand disease (VWD). The molecular pathology of this condition represents a range of genetic mechanisms, some of which are now very well characterized, and others that are still under investigation. In general, our knowledge of the molecular basis of type 2 and 3 VWD is now well advanced, and in some instances this information is being used to enhance clinical management. In contrast, our understanding of the molecular pathogenesis of the most common form of VWD, type 1 disease, is still at an early stage, with preliminary evidence that this phenotype involves a complex interplay between environmental factors and the influence of genetic variability both within and outside of the VWF locus.
Don't tell me what I should do, but what others do: The influence of descriptive and injunctive peer norms on fruit consumption in adolescents
Authors: Stok F. Marijn , de Ridder Denise T. D. , de Vet Emely , de Wit John B. F.
Published: February 2013

Objectives

While healthy eating patterns are of high importance in adolescence, most adolescents portray quite unhealthy eating behaviour. One reason for this may be that social norms among peers tend to be unsupportive of healthy eating. The current study investigates whether communicating health‐promoting descriptive and injunctive norms influences adolescents' intended and actual fruit consumption.

Design

The study employed an experimental prospective design.

Methods

A norm message manipulation (descriptive vs. injunctive vs. no‐norm control) was administered to high school students, after which fruit intake intention (N = 96) was assessed. At follow‐up, actual fruit intake over 2 days (N = 80) was recorded.

Results

Adolescents receiving the descriptive norm did not report higher fruit intake intentions than the control group, but did consume (borderline, p = .057) significantly more fruit in the following 2 days (2.3 portions per day) than the control condition (1.7 portion per day). Adolescents receiving the injunctive norm reported lower fruit intake intentions than the other two groups, but actual fruit consumption (1.5 portions per day) was similar to that of the control group.

Conclusions

Health‐promoting injunctive norms not only had no positive effects on fruit intake but actually caused a decrease in fruit intake intentions, indicating that injunctive norms may be vulnerable to reactance. A health‐promoting descriptive norm was found to positively affect fruit intake in adolescents. No effect on fruit intake intention was found. Results show that simple single‐sentence norm messages hold the potential to substantially influence health behaviour.

Statement of contribution

What is already known on this subject? Previous research has shown that both descriptive and injunctive norms can influence behaviour. There are indications that for health behaviour specifically, descriptive norms may be more influential than injunctive norms. These previous studies have, however, been cross‐sectional in nature.

What does this study add? The current study demonstrates that a very short and simple norm manipulation has the potential to substantially influence health behaviour. The current study demonstrates that injunctive norm messages have no influence on fruit intake, but a negative influence on fruit intake intentions, pointing to the potential that injunctive norms hold to induce resistance and reactance. The current study demonstrates that descriptive norm messages positively influence fruit intake behaviour, while intentions did not change, pointing to the possibility of descriptive norms functioning as heuristics for behaviour.
Structure of Small Mammal Assemblages Across Flooded and Unflooded Gallery Forests of the Amazonia‐Cerrado Ecotone
Authors: Ramos Pereira Maria , Rocha Rita G. , Ferreira Eduardo , Fonseca Carlos
Published: February 2013

Habitat heterogeneity may affect the structure of animal assemblages even within apparently homogenous landscapes. Gallery forests of the Amazonia‐Cerrado ecotone have a small‐scale patchiness that is induced by river system dynamics. Gallery forests that never flood are located in upper areas of watercourse margins, whereas seasonally flooded gallery forests are located at lower ground along those margins. We tested the prediction that the assemblage structure of small non‐volant mammals of these two types of forests is distinct and arises from the ecological heterogeneity induced by seasonal floods. We found that species composition differed between forest types, with arboreal species dominating in the seasonally flooded forests and a more balanced distribution of arboreal and terrestrial species in unflooded forests. We found no differences in species abundance between habitats, but species richness was higher in unflooded forests. We hypothesize that this difference is due to decreased resource availability for strictly terrestrial species in seasonally flooded forests. Relative biomass of seasonally flooded forests was more than twice that of unflooded forests due to the dominance of large‐bodied didelphid species in that assemblage. Our results suggest that the ecological heterogeneity created by seasonal floods is central to maintaining diverse assemblages in this region. The preservation of both unflooded and flooded gallery forests, which are under high human pressure from deforestation, agricultural conversion, and implementation of dams, may be crucial to preserving small mammal diversity at the landscape scale.
Where are the Subtropics?
Authors: Corlett Richard T.
Published: February 2013

The tropics are clearly defined while ‘subtropics’ and ‘subtropical’ have been applied to a variety of zones, climates, and ecosystems. However, in the recent terrestrial biology literature, they have been used mainly for the zones between the tropics (±23.4oC) and ±30.0o. Adopting this standard would facilitate pan‐subtropical comparisons.
Commercial, Societal and Administrative Benefits from the Analysis and Clarification of Definitions: The Case of Nanomaterials
Authors: Saner Marc , Stoklosa Anna
Published: February 2013

The managerial, policy, technical and ethical decisions centred on emerging technologies are often hampered by a lack of consensus on what falls within the remit of such decisions. A lack of clarity and agreement on definitions is especially the case for nanotechnology. Given the potential of nanotechnology to underpin the next Schumpeterian economic cycle, this limitation on decision making needs to be taken seriously. Here we add to the literature by providing a pathway for decision makers to understand the nature and value of differing definitions in the important case of nanomaterials. We identified 65 relevant sources, of which 27 provided a definition of the term ‘nanomaterial’. Based on the analysis of the content of these 27 definitions, we generated an analytical taxonomy of definitions of ‘nanomaterials’ from which we constructed seven logical categories. Our analysis provides decision makers with a taxonomy to more precisely understand the diversity of definitions, thereby assisting them in their decision‐making processes.
Alliance Addiction: Do Alliances Create Real Benefits?
Authors: Park Gunno , Kang Jina
Published: February 2013

Although their advantages are well known, technology alliances may not always positively affect innovative performance. Previous studies have found several explanations for this problem. Technology alliances often require excessive resources and capabilities to create and maintain relationships with partners. In addition, they divert managerial attention and functions from internal research and development (R&D) activities. In this study, we hypothesize that firms often execute inefficient technology alliance strategies, thus affecting their innovative capabilities negatively and consequently reducing their subsequent innovation performance. Specifically, we test whether firms with greater prior experience in technology alliance are more likely to execute inefficient technology alliance strategies. Second, we attempt to investigate the negative effects of technology alliances on firms' internal R&D capabilities. To test our hypotheses, we employ data from 1,036 technology alliances in the US nanobiotechnology sector. Implications from the analyses are offered for executives and technology alliance strategies. Specifically, we propose that firms should adopt technology alliance but with due consideration of its negative aspects and the firms' limited resources.
Post‐treatment efficacy of discontinuous treatment with 300IR 5‐grass pollen sublingual tablet in adults with grass pollen‐induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
Authors: Didier A. , Malling H.‐J. , Worm M. , Horak F. , Sussman G. , Melac M. , Soulié S. , Zeldin R. K.
Published: February 2013

Background

Sustained efficacy over three pollen seasons of pre‐ and co‐seasonal treatment with 300IR 5‐grass pollen sublingual tablet has been demonstrated in adults with moderate‐severe grass pollen‐associated allergic rhinoconjunctivitis.

Objective

To assess the efficacy of discontinuous treatment with 300IR 5‐grass pollen sublingual tablet during the post‐treatment pollen season of this long‐term study.

Methods

Adults aged 18–50, sensitized to grass pollen, with a history of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis for more than two pollen seasons, and a retrospective rhinoconjunctivitis total symptom score ≥ 12 (0–18 scale), were randomized to receive Placebo or a 300IR tablet daily beginning either 4 months (4M) or 2 months (2M) prior to each pollen season and continuing for its duration for three consecutive years. They were followed over the subsequent immunotherapy‐free pollen season. Post‐treatment efficacy was evaluated using the Average Adjusted Symptom Score (AAdSS, adjusting the Rhinoconjunctivitis Total Symptom Score for rescue medication usage) during the post‐treatment pollen period. Secondary endpoints included Average Rhinoconjunctivitis Total Symptom Score (ARTSS), Average Rescue Medication Score (ARMS), overall Rhinoconjunctivitis Quality of Life Questionnaire (RQLQ) score and safety evaluation. Efficacy variables were analysed using ancova.

Results

Overall, 435 patients contributed to the Year 4 efficacy analyses. The Least‐Squares (LS) mean differences (95% confidence interval) in AAdSS between active treatment and Placebo over the fourth pollen period were −1.14 (−2.03; −0.26) (P = 0.0114) and −1.43 (−2.32; −0.53) (P = 0.0019) in the (4M) and (2M) groups, corresponding to −22.9% and −28.5% relative LS mean differences (vs. Placebo) respectively. The active groups also showed statistically significant differences compared to Placebo in ARTSS, ARMS and overall RQLQ score. No safety risk was identified during the post‐treatment period.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Pre‐ and co‐seasonal treatment with 300IR 5‐grass pollen sublingual tablet administered discontinuously for three consecutive years is efficacious post‐treatment, safe and well tolerated. Benefits of treatment were meaningful to patients.
Antimalarial Drug Artemisinin Extenuates Amyloidogenesis and Neuroinflammation in APPswe/PS1dE9 Transgenic Mice via Inhibition of Nuclear Factor‐κB and NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation
Authors: Shi Jian‐Quan , Zhang Chu‐Chu , Sun Xiu‐Lan , Cheng Xin‐Xin , Wang Jiang‐Bo , Zhang Ying‐Dong , Xu Jun , Zou Hai‐Qiang
Published: February 2013

Background

The activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in neuroinflammation, which is closely linked to Alzheimer's disease (AD). In vivo and in vitro studies have suggested that artemisinin shows antiinflammatory effects in inflammation‐related diseases. However, the impacts of artemisinin on AD have not been investigated.

Aims

In this study, 5‐month‐old APPswe/PS1dE9 transgenic mice were treated daily with 40 mg/kg artemisinin for 30 days by intraperitoneal injection to evaluate the effects of artemisinin on AD.

Results

We found that artemisinin treatment (1) decreased neuritic plaque burden; (2) did not alter Aβ transport across the blood–brain barrier; (3) regulated APP processing via inhibiting β‐secretase activity; (4) inhibited NF‐κB activity and NALP3 inflammasome activation in APPswe/PS1dE9 double transgenic mice.

Conclusions

The in vivo study clearly demonstrates that artemisinin has protective effects on AD pathology due to its effects on suppressing NF‐κB activity and NALP3 inflammasome activation. Our study suggests that targeting NF‐κB activity and NALP3 inflammasome activation offers a valuable intervention for AD.
Distribution of a Community of Mammals in Relation to Roads and Other Human Disturbances in Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: VANTHOMME HADRIEN , KOLOWSKI JOSEPH , KORTE LISA , ALONSO ALFONSO
Published: February 2013

We present the first community‐level study of the associations of both roads and other human disturbances with the distribution of mammals in Gabon (central Africa). Our study site was in an oil concession within a littoral mosaic landscape. We conducted surveys along 199 line transects and installed camera traps on 99 of these transects to document mammal presence and abundance. We used generalized linear mixed‐effect models to document associations between variables related to the ecosystem (land cover, topography, and hydrology), roads (coating, width of rights of way, condition, type of vehicle used on the road, traffic level, affiliation of users, and general type of road), and other human disturbances (urbanization, agriculture, hunting, logging, gathering, and industrial activities) and the abundance or presence of 17 species or groups of mammals including elephant (Loxodonta cyclotis), buffalo (Syncerus caffer), sitatunga (Tragelaphus spekei), red river hog (Potamochoerus porcus), smaller ungulates, gorilla (Gorilla gorilla), chimpanzee (Pan troglodytes), side‐striped jackal (Canis adustus), carnivores, monkeys, and large rodents. Some types of roads and other human disturbances were negatively associated with the abundance or presence of elephants, buffalos, gorillas, sitatungas, some monkeys, and duikers. The pattern of associations of mammals with roads and other human disturbances was diverse and included positive associations with road presence (red river hog, some monkeys, and duikers), agriculture (sitatunga, small carnivores, and large rodents) and industrial activities (sitatunga, red river hog, red duikers, and side‐striped jackal). Our results suggest that the community of mammals we studied was mostly affected by hunting, agriculture, and urbanization, which are facilitated by road presence. We recommend increased regulation of agriculture, hunting, and road building in the area.

Distribución de una Comunidad de Mamíferos en Relación a Carreteras y Otras Perturbaciones Humanas en Gabón, Africa Central
Dyeing method and properties of polymaleic acid dyes on cotton
Authors: Deng Yong , Tang Bingtao , Zhao Hongjuan , Xu Jiping , Xiao Jinqiu , Zhang Xingrong , Xu Hua , Zhang Shufen
Published: February 2013

A polymaleic acid dye based on poly(maleic anhydride) was synthesised and evaluated in the dyeing of cotton. A series of dyeing auxiliaries were examined, and results showed that a composite auxiliary agent consisting of 20 g/l of zinc nitrate and 30 g/l of dicyandiamide was the most effective when a conventional pad‐dry‐cure dyeing process was used. The fixation could reach 99% and the wash and dry rub fastness could reach grade 4 and grade 4–5 respectively. The decrease in tearing strength of the dyed cotton was between 17.8 and 32.1%.
Kidney graft dysfunction in simultaneous pancreas–kidney recipients after pancreas failure: analysis of early and late protocol biopsies
Authors: Viglietti Denis , Serrato Tomas , Abboud Imad , Antoine Corinne , Pillebout Evangéline , Busson Marc , Desgrandchamps François , Meria Paul , Godin Michel , Hurault de Ligny Bruno , Thervet Eric , Legendre Christophe , Suberbielle Caroline , Verine Jérome , Glotz Denis , Peraldi Marie‐Noëlle
Published: February 2013

Background

Kidney graft survival in simultaneous pancreas–kidney (SPK) recipients is known to decrease after pancreas graft failure.

Methods

Sixty‐three consecutive SPK recipients were retrospectively reviewed. Kidney graft function and proteinuria were evaluated at three months after the transplantation and at last follow‐up. Histopathologic findings of protocol biopsies performed three months and one yr after transplantation were analyzed.

Results

Twelve patients lost the pancreas graft. Donors' characteristics were similar in patients with or without pancreas failure. After a median follow‐up of 36 months, mean eGFR with a functional pancreas was 69.5 mL/min/1.73 m² vs. 56.3 mL/min/1.73 m² (p = 0.01) after pancreas loss. Patients who lost pancreas had a median proteinuria of 0.28 g vs. 0.13 g per 24 h (p = 0.02). Analysis of three‐month protocol biopsies revealed more frequent isolated glomerulitis after pancreas failure (p = 0.0001), without peritubular capillaritis or C4d deposition. No donor‐specific anti‐HLA antibodies were detectable in these patients. Chronic tubulointerstitial changes were more frequent in patients with pancreas loss. There was no evidence of diabetic nephropathy recurrence.

Conclusion

SPK recipients develop an early kidney graft dysfunction after pancreas failure. Histopathologic findings revealed frequent glomerulitis without antibody‐mediated rejection and early chronic changes.
The factors that influence attitudes toward organ donation for transplantation among UK university students of Indian and Pakistani descent
Authors: Gauher Salman T. , Khehar Ravi , Rajput Gaurav , Hayat Alia , Bakshi Bhavagaya , Chawla Hanmeet , Cox Benita M. , Warrens Anthony N.
Published: February 2013

Background

The shortage of organs donated for transplantation is particularly severe among ethnic minorities. Previous work has often studied ethnic minorities in broad groups, failing to differentiate by age or country of education. We investigated the younger generation of UK‐educated ethnically Indian and Pakistani students to determine their attitudes toward organ donation.

Methods

We conducted nine focus groups and eight semi‐structured interviews. Participants were divided by ethnicity, gender, and medical/non‐medical background. Interview transcripts were analyzed by thematic analysis.

Results

Six key factors influencing attitudes toward organ donation were found: religion, awareness of the importance of donation, impact of medical education, culture‐specific factors, treatment of donors and their organs, and influence of family. The attitude of Islam to donation was highly relevant to Pakistani participants, more than other factors; for Indians, all six factors were similarly relevant. We found that medical education specifically had an important effect on shaping attitudes toward donation. Cultural changes suggested the younger generation may differ from their elders as they adopt British culture. Awareness of donation was universally low.

Conclusions

Indian and Pakistani students are hesitant to donate organs because of multiple factors, which if addressed in a culturally relevant manner could substantially improve donation rates.
Two Cases of Reversible Left Ventricular Hypertrophy during Recovery from Takotsubo Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Kato Takao , Ban Yoko , Kuruma Saori , Ishida Seiko , Doi Chikako , Iura Tamae , Terawaki Hiromi , Inoko Moriaki , Nohara Ryuji
Published: February 2013

We report 2 cases of reversible ventricular hypertrophy in patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy (stress‐induced cardiomyopathy) during recovery of cardiac function. The first case involved a 72‐year‐old woman who presented with cerebral infarction. On admission, an elevated troponin I and decreased apical wall motion were observed with normal myocardial perfusion imaging. The second case involved a 79‐year‐old woman who presented with angina, anxiety resulting from emotional stress, slightly decreased apical wall motion, and normal epicardial arteries. In both cases, apical hypertrophy of the left ventricle was observed at approximately 3 weeks after onset, when the wall motion had improved. The ventricular wall gradually became thinner over time. To our knowledge, this is the first report of reversible ventricular hypertrophy in patients with takotsubo cardiomyopathy. We hypothesize the hypertrophic signaling in the myocardium was stimulated by catecholamines, which are the suggested etiology of takotsubo cardiomyopathy, and the hypertrophied myocardium gradually returned to normal as the syndrome receded.
Coherent neocortical 40‐Hz oscillations are not present during REM sleep
Authors: Castro Santiago , Falconi Atilio , Chase Michael H. , Torterolo Pablo
Published: February 2013

During cognitive processes there are extensive interactions between various regions of the cerebral cortex. Oscillations in the gamma frequency band (≈40 Hz) of the electroencephalogram (EEG) are involved in the binding of spatially separated but temporally correlated neural events, which results in a unified perceptual experience. The extent of these interactions can be examined by means of a mathematical algorithm called ‘coherence’, which reflects the ‘strength’ of functional interactions between cortical areas. The present study was conducted to analyse EEG coherence in the gamma frequency band of the cat during alert wakefulness (AW), quiet wakefulness (QW), non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. Cats were implanted with electrodes in the frontal, parietal and occipital cortices to monitor EEG activity. Coherence values within the gamma frequency (30–100 Hz) from pairs of EEG recordings were analysed. A large increase in coherence occurred between all cortical regions in the 30–45 Hz frequency band during AW compared with the other behavioral states. As the animal transitioned from AW to QW and from QW to NREM sleep, coherence decreased to a moderate level. Remarkably, there was practically no EEG coherence in the entire gamma band spectrum (30–100 Hz) during REM sleep. We conclude that functional interactions between cortical areas are radically different during sleep compared with wakefulness. The virtual absence of gamma frequency coherence during REM sleep may underlie the unique cognitive processing that occurs during dreams, which is principally a REM sleep‐related phenomenon.