bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of long‐term mineral and organic fertilizer application on the water stability, wettability and porosity of aggregates obtained from two loamy soils
Authors: Czachor H. , Charytanowicz M. , Gonet S. , Niewczas J. , Jozefaciuk G. , Lichner L.
Published: March 2015

The impact of fertilizer application on soil aggregate stability is of increasing interest to soil scientists. Aggregate water stability depends primarily on soil organic matter. We studied silty loam and loamy sand aggregates from three long‐term fertilizer treatments (control, pig manure and NPK) which significantly altered the quantity of organic matter. A new approach to examining aggregate stability was used: soil aggregates were immersed in methanol‐water solutions with methanol at 0, 20, 40 and 60% concentration (C), and non‐disrupted aggregates were separated after 30 minutes. The aggregate resistance R(C) against each solution was taken as the percentage of stable aggregates. Overall resistance of the aggregates was taken as the Rtot parameter given by the product of four R(C) values. The R(C) values of all aggregates were positively correlated with C. The R(60) values were independent of the applied fertilizer. The R(0) value for silty loam aggregates ranged from 28% (pig manure) to 7% (NPK), while that for loamy sand equalled 7–9% in all cases. The R(20) values were most effective at differentiating the soils and the fertilizer treatments. However, the Rtot value was a better indicator of aggregate stability. Greater differences in stabilities of aggregates were noted in loamy sand. Mineral fertilizer application seemed to decrease aggregate resistance in both soils. Total organic carbon and nitrogen content in all non‐disrupted aggregates were negatively correlated with methanol concentration (C) of the solution applied for aggregate separation. The largest decrease was for the pig manure treatment, and the smallest was for the control. Porosity and pore size distributions of the aggregates were derived from micro‐tomography and approximated to lognormal pore size distributions. Larger porosities and pores were found in water‐stable aggregates than in methanol‐stable aggregates. It seems that the dominant mechanisms for aggregate instability during fast wetting were not related only to the pore air compression, but to weakening of attractive forces between aggregate particles by water.
Individual heterogeneity in life histories and eco‐evolutionary dynamics
Authors: Vindenes Yngvild , Langangen Øystein
Published: March 2015

Individual heterogeneity in life history shapes eco‐evolutionary processes, and unobserved heterogeneity can affect demographic outputs characterising life history and population dynamical properties. Demographic frameworks like matrix models or integral projection models represent powerful approaches to disentangle mechanisms linking individual life histories and population‐level processes. Recent developments have provided important steps towards their application to study eco‐evolutionary dynamics, but so far individual heterogeneity has largely been ignored. Here, we present a general demographic framework that incorporates individual heterogeneity in a flexible way, by separating static and dynamic traits (discrete or continuous). First, we apply the framework to derive the consequences of ignoring heterogeneity for a range of widely used demographic outputs. A general conclusion is that besides the long‐term growth rate lambda, all parameters can be affected. Second, we discuss how the framework can help advance current demographic models of eco‐evolutionary dynamics, by incorporating individual heterogeneity. For both applications numerical examples are provided, including an empirical example for pike. For instance, we demonstrate that predicted demographic responses to climate warming can be reversed by increased heritability. We discuss how applications of this demographic framework incorporating individual heterogeneity can help answer key biological questions that require a detailed understanding of eco‐evolutionary dynamics.
Morphological study of alar androconia in Celastrina butterflies
Authors: Ômura Hisashi , Itoh Takao , Wright David M. , Pavulaan Harry , Schröder Stefan
Published: March 2015

Morphological studies of androconia were performed for 13 Celastrina species using a digital microscope with Z‐stacking mode. Whereas C. ladon lacked androconia, the remaining 12 species were found to possess fan‐shaped androconia on the dorsal wing surfaces. The androconia of these species shared the following common features: smaller size than standard color‐producing scales, absence of dentate termini and presence of crossrib perforations. In addition, some species were characterized by unique microstructures in their androconia. The androconia of C. argiolus iynteana possessed a rounded lamellar contour, while those of C. lavendularis himilcon and C. echo cinerea were tapered on the basal end. The average number of longitudinal ridges of C. argiolus ladonides and C. filipjevi (17.1) were greater than the average number of 12 species (14.3). These results suggest that the morphological traits of androconia in microdomain, such as the shape of the lamellar form and the average number of longitudinal ridges, are useful to identify species in the genus Celastrina.
Early and chronic gray matter volume changes in limbic encephalitis revealed by voxel‐based morphometry
Authors: Wagner Jan , Weber Bernd , Elger Christian E.
Published: March 2015

Objective

Antibody‐associated limbic encephalitis (LE) is an increasingly recognized cause of mostly adult‐onset temporal lobe epilepsy. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) typically shows volume and signal changes of the mesiotemporal structures. However, recent studies indicate that imaging characteristics depend on the type of the associated antibody. The aim of the present study was to investigate early and chronic gray matter (GM) volume changes in LE by means of voxel‐based morphometry (VBM).

Methods

Optimized VBM analysis was applied to altogether 73 MRI volumes of 55 patients with antibody‐associated LE. Based on the time point of MRI acquisition, patients were split into two separate groups to enable the evaluation of early (≤2 years after LE onset) and chronic (>2 years after LE onset) GM volume changes. In addition, separate analyses for the two most common LE subtypes in our study cohort, that is, glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD)–associated LE and voltage‐gated potassium channel (VGKC)‐complex–associated LE were performed. Age‐ and gender‐matched healthy subjects served as controls.

Results

Referring to the entire LE group, VBM revealed bi‐amygdalar GM volume increase in the early disease stage. In the chronic disease stage, amygdala enlargement had resolved and we found GM volume reduction in the right cerebellar hemisphere. In the subgroup analysis, VBM showed corresponding bi‐amygdalar GM volume increase in VGKC‐complex–associated LE on early MRI, whereas no changes were found in GAD‐associated LE. In the chronic disease stage, VBM revealed left frontal GM volume increase in VGKC‐complex–associated LE and right frontoparietal GM volume reduction in GAD‐associated LE.

Significance

The present study provides further evidence of a predominant affection of the amygdala in the early disease stage of LE, which resolves during the later course of the disease. Furthermore, our results show that LE features distinct imaging characteristics depending on the associated antibody and thus may contribute to a better pathophysiologic understanding of this disease.
Delegation and Authority: Authoritarian Liberalism Today
Authors: Somek Alexander
Published: March 2015

In light of the reforms undertaken for the sake of the Euro, the article revisits the concept authoritarian liberalism that was introduced in 1933 by the German public law scholar Hermann Heller. This notion seeks to capture the liaison between the ‘strong state’ and economic liberalism. The article suggests that this notion can be fruitfully used to designate the new governance of economic and monetary union. It argues, particularly, that it makes sense to speak of an authoritarian style of governance even if the latter does not wear vestiges of outright repression. Two different faces of authoritarian liberalism can be distinguished: one that looks more towards authoritarianism and another one that views authoritarian rule as a managerial strategy that is good for the economy. The article then speculates whether the EU has been, indeed, successful because it shifts between the two. Disturbingly, there may be something deeply as well as more accidentally authoritarian about European integration.
Inhibition of retinoic acid catabolism by minocycline: evidence for a novel mode of action?
Authors: Regen Francesca , Hildebrand Martin , Le Bret Nathalie , Herzog Irmelin , Heuser Isabella , Hellmann‐Regen Julian
Published: March 2015

Retinoic acid (RA) represents an essential and highly potent endogenous retinoid with pronounced anti‐inflammatory properties and potent anti‐acne activity, and has recently been suggested to share a common anti‐inflammatory mode of action with tetracycline antibiotics. We hypothesized that tetracyclines may directly interfere with RA homeostasis via inhibition of its local cytochrome P450 (CYP450)‐mediated degradation, an essential component of tightly regulated skin RA homeostasis. To test this hypothesis, we performed controlled in vitro RA metabolism assays using rat skin microsomes and measured RA levels in a RA‐synthesizing human keratinocyte cell line, both in the presence and in the absence of minocycline, a tetracycline popular in acne treatment. Interestingly, minocycline potently blocked RA degradation in rat skin microsomes, and strikingly enhanced RA levels in RA‐synthesizing cell cultures, in a dose‐dependent manner. These findings indicate a potential role for CYP‐450‐mediated RA metabolism in minocycline's pleiotropic mode of action and anti‐acne efficacy and could account for the overlap between minocycline and RA‐induced effects at the level of their molecular mode of action, but also clinically at the level of the rare side effect of pseudotumor cerebri, which is observed for both, RA and minocycline treatment.
EMMPRIN regulates β1 integrin‐mediated adhesion through Kindlin‐3 in human melanoma cells
Authors: Delyon Julie , Khayati Farah , Djaafri Ibtissem , Podgorniak Marie‐Pierre , Sadoux Aurélie , Setterblad Niclas , Boutalbi Zineb , Maouche Kamel , Maskos Uwe , Menashi Suzanne , Lebbé Céleste , Mourah Samia
Published: March 2015

EMMPRIN is known to promote tumor invasion through extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation. Here we report that EMMPRIN can regulate melanoma cell adhesion to the ECM through an interaction with β1 integrin involving kindlin‐3. In this study, EMMPRIN knockdown in the human melanoma cell line M10 using siRNA decreased cell invasion and significantly increased cell adhesion and spreading. A morphological change from a round to a spread shape was observed associated with enhanced phalloidin‐labelled actin staining. In situ proximity ligation assay and co‐immunoprecipitation revealed that EMMPRIN silencing increased the interaction of β1 integrin with kindlin‐3, a focal adhesion protein. This was associated with an increase in β1 integrin activation and a decrease in the phosphorylation of the downstream integrin kinase FAK. Moreover, the expression at both the transcript and protein level of kindlin‐3 and of β1 integrin was inversely regulated by EMMPRIN. EMMPRIN did not regulate either talin expression or its interaction with β1 integrin. These results are consistent with our in vivo demonstration that EMMPRIN inhibition increased β1 integrin activation and its interaction with kindlin‐3. To conclude, these findings reveal a new role of EMMPRIN in tumor cell migration through ß1 integrin/kindlin‐3‐mediated adhesion pathway.
Metastasis suppressor NME1 regulates melanoma cell morphology, self‐adhesion and motility via induction of fibronectin expression
Authors: Novak Marián , Leonard Mary Kathryn , Yang Xiuwei H. , Kowluru Anjan , Belkin Alexey M. , Kaetzel David M.
Published: March 2015

Expression of the metastasis suppressor NME1 in melanoma is associated with reduced cellular motility and invasion in vitro and metastasis in vivo, but the underlying molecular mechanisms are not completely understood. Herein, we report a novel mechanism through which NME1 controls melanoma cell morphology via upregulation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) protein fibronectin. Expression of NME1 strongly suppressed cell motility in melanoma cell lines 1205LU and M14. The resulting sedentary phenotype was associated with a more flattened appearance and marked increases in actin stress fibre and focal adhesion formation. NME1‐induced focal adhesions were colocalized with dense deposits of fibronectin, which were absent or minimal in the corresponding NME1‐deficient parental lines. NME1 was a strong inducer of fibronectin mRNA and protein expression, shown with reciprocal approaches of forced NME1 expression and shRNA‐mediated knock‐down. Increased synthesis and ECM deposition of fibronectin was necessary for NME1‐induced cell spreading, as knock‐down of fibronectin opposed the effects of NME1 on cell morphology. Fibronectin knock‐down also reversed the ability of NME1 to promote aggregation when cells were plated on a non‐adherent substratum. Similarly, inhibiting activation of the fibronectin receptor integrin α4β1 with an anti‐α4 antibody reversed the motility‐suppressing effect of NME1. A positive correlation was observed between NME1 and fibronectin mRNA in clinical biopsies of normal skin, benign nevi and primary melanomas, but not in metastatic forms, suggesting the NME1/fibronectin axis represents a barrier to melanoma progression. In summary, these findings indicate fibronectin is an important effector of the motility‐suppressing function of NME1 in melanoma cells.
Anti‐angiogenic activity of thienopyridine derivative LCB03‐0110 by targeting VEGFR‐2 and JAK/STAT3 Signalling
Authors: Kim Byung‐Hak , Lee Yoonji , Yoo Hyun , Cui Minghua , Lee Sungwoon , Kim Sun Young , Cho Jong Un , Lee Hyangsook , Yang Beom‐Seok , Kwon Young‐Guen , Choi Sun , Kim Tae‐Yoon
Published: March 2015

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor‐2 (VEGFR‐2) and Janus kinase (JAK)/signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) signalling are important for tumor angiogenesis and metastasis. In this study, we identified (3‐(2‐(3‐(morpholinomethyl)phenyl)thieno[3,2‐b]pyridin‐7‐ylamino)phenol (LCB03‐0110) as a potent angiogenesis inhibitor. LCB03‐0110 inhibited VEGFR‐2 and JAK/STAT3 signalling in primary cultured human endothelial cells and cancer cells. An in vitro kinase assay and molecular modelling revealed that LCB03‐0110 inhibited VEGFR‐2, c‐SRC and TIE‐2 kinase activity via preferential binding at the ATP‐binding site of their kinases. LCB03‐0110 successfully occupied the hydrophobic pocket of VEGFR‐2, c‐SRC and TIE‐2. LCB03‐0110 also inhibited hypoxia‐induced HIF/STAT3 and EGF‐ or angiopoietin‐induced signalling cascades. In addition, LCB03‐0110 inhibited VEGF‐induced proliferation, viability, migration and capillary‐like tube formation. LCB03‐0110 also suppressed the sprouting of endothelial cells in the rat aorta and the formation of new blood vessels in the mouse Matrigel plug assay, but also suppressed pulmonary metastasis and tumor xenograft in mice. Our results suggest that LCB03‐0110 is a potential candidate small molecule for blocking angiogenesis mediated by aberrant activation of VEGFR‐2 and JAK/STAT3 signalling.
Mapping the expression of epithelial hair follicle stem cell‐related transcription factors LHX2 and SOX9 in the human hair follicle
Authors: Purba Talveen S. , Haslam Iain S. , Shahmalak Asim , Bhogal Ranjit K. , Paus Ralf
Published: March 2015

In the murine hair follicle (HF), the transcription factors LHX2 and SOX9 are implicated in epithelial hair follicle stem cell (eHFSC) self‐renewal and the maintenance of eHFSC niche characteristics. However, the exact expression patterns of LHX2 and SOX9 in the human HF are unclear. Therefore, we have quantitatively mapped the localisation of known human eHFSC markers keratin 15 (K15) and keratin 19 (K19) in the outer root sheath (ORS) of male occipital scalp anagen HFs and related this to the localisation of LHX2 and SOX9 protein expression. As expected, K15+ and K19+ cells represented two distinct progenitor cell populations in the bulge and in the proximal bulb ORS (pbORS). Interestingly, cell fluorescence for K19 was significantly stronger within the pbORS versus the bulge, and vice versa for K15, describing a hitherto unrecognised differential expression pattern. LHX2 and SOX9 expressing cells were distributed throughout the ORS, including the bulge, but were not restricted to it. SOX9 expression was most prominent in the ORS immediately below the human bulge, whereas LHX2+ cells were similarly distributed between the sub‐bulge and pbORS, that is compartments not enriched with quiescent eHFSCs. During catagen development, the intensity of LHX2 and SOX9 protein expression increased in the proximal HF epithelium. Double immunostaining showed that the majority of SOX9+ cells in the human anagen HF epithelium did not co‐express K15, K19 or LHX2. This expression profile suggests that LHX2 and SOX9 highlight distinct epithelial progenitor cell populations, in addition to K15+ or K19+ cells, that could play an important role in the maintenance of the human HF epithelium.
We‐Language and Sustained Reductions in Drinking in Couple‐Based Treatment for Alcohol Use Disorders
Authors: Hallgren Kevin A. , McCrady Barbara S.
Published: March 2015

Couple‐based treatments for alcohol use disorders (AUDs) produce higher rates of abstinence than individual‐based treatments and posit that active involvement of both identified patients (IPs) and significant others (SOs) is partly responsible for these improvements. Separate research on couples’ communication has suggested that pronoun usage can indicate a communal approach to coping with health‐related problems. The present study tested whether communal coping, indicated by use of more first‐person plural pronouns (“we” language), fewer second‐person pronouns (“you” language), and fewer first‐person singular pronouns (“I” language), predicted improvements in abstinence in couple‐based AUD treatment. Pronoun use was measured in first‐ and mid‐treatment sessions for 188 heterosexual couples in four clinical trials of alcohol behavioral couple therapy (ABCT). Percentages of days abstinent were assessed during treatment and over a 6‐month follow‐up period. Greater IP and SO “we” language during both sessions was correlated with greater improvement in abstinent days during treatment. Greater SO “we” language during first‐ and mid‐treatment sessions was correlated with greater improvement in abstinence at follow‐up. Greater use of IP and SO “you” and “I” language had mixed correlations with abstinence, typically being unrelated to or predicting less improvement in abstinence. When all pronoun variables were entered into regression models, only greater IP “we” langue and lower IP “you” language predicted improvements in abstinence during treatment, and only SO “we” language predicted improvements during follow‐up. Most pronoun categories had little or no association with baseline relationship distress. Results suggest that communal coping predicts better abstinence outcomes in couple‐based AUD treatment.
Practitioners of complementary and alternative medicine should value their strengths
Authors: Fønnebø Vinjar
Published: March 2015

The patient‐experienced effect of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) can primarily be attributed to a personal relationship between the provider and patient, and health recommendations within a context with potential symbolic value. The current important challenge for CAM practitioners is to acknowledge that their specific ‘treatments’ should also be mostly reclassified as important symbols, not treatments with direct pathophysiological effects. If this were done, they would hopefully achieve a constructive dialogue with representatives of conventional medicine.
Elements of metacommunity structure and community‐environment relationships in stream organisms
Authors: Heino Jani , Nokela Tiina , Soininen Janne , Tolkkinen Mikko , Virtanen Laura , Virtanen Risto
Published: March 2015

Most metacommunity studies aim to explain variation in community structure using environmental and spatial variables. An alternative is to examine patterns emerging at the level of an entire metacommunity, whereby six models of metacommunity structure (i.e. random, chequerboards, nestedness, evenly spaced, Gleasonian gradients and Clementsian gradients) can be examined.

We aimed to test the fit of six competing models of metacommunity structure to extensive survey data on diatoms, bacteria, bryophytes and invertebrates from three drainage basins in Finland, along a latitudinal gradient from 66 °N to 70 °N.

Species were mainly distributed independently of one another (following the Gleasonian model) in the southernmost drainage basin (66 °N), whereas there were discrete community types, with sets of species responding similarly along environmental gradients (following the Clementsian model), in the northernmost drainage basin (70 °N). The patterns found were not directly related to an expected relationships between environmental heterogeneity and metacommunity structures, but rather to the geographical location of the drainage basin.

There is evidently among‐region variation in the best‐fit models of metacommunity structure of stream organisms. These metacommunity patterns may show some similarities among biologically disparate organismal groups sampled at the set of the same sites, although the underlying environmental drivers of those patterns may vary between the groups.
Relating life‐history traits, environmental constraints and local extinctions in river fish
Authors: Bergerot Benjamin , Hugueny Bernard , Belliard Jérôme
Published: March 2015

The life histories of freshwater fish are widely studied because they represent fundamental determinants of population performances. However, a gap remains in our understanding of how species traits may predispose species to extinction in a changing environment.

In this study, based on a large data set provided by the French National Agency for Water and Aquatic Environment (325 sites), we analysed factors that explain the probability of local extinction in 40 freshwater species across French rivers.

A total of five traits characterised the demography of 40 species, and eight environmental parameters at the 325 sites were examined. Our results agreed closely with an empirical classification of freshwater fish in temperate regions, conforming to three‐endpoint continuum of life‐history ‘strategies’ of species (equilibrium, periodic and opportunist).

The probability of local species extinction was closely related to species traits. Equilibrial species tended to show lower annual extinction rates, whereas opportunistic species and, above all, periodic ones exhibited higher extinction values.

Nevertheless, prediction of species local extinctions is not trivial and depends not only on particular suites of life‐history traits but also on their interaction with environmental conditions along the longitudinal river continuum.
Relative importance of phosphorus, invasive mussels and climate for patterns in chlorophyll a and primary production in Lakes Michigan and Huron
Authors: Warner David M. , Lesht Barry M.
Published: March 2015

Lakes Michigan and Huron, which are undergoing oligotrophication after reduction of phosphorus loading, invasion by dreissenid mussels and variation in climate, provide an opportunity to conduct large‐scale evaluation of the relative importance of these changes for lake productivity. We used remote sensing, field data and an information‐theoretic approach to identify factors that showed statistical relationships with observed changes in chlorophyll a (chla) and primary production (PP).

Spring phosphorus (TP), annual mean chla and PP have all declined significantly in both lakes since the late 1990s. Additionally, monthly mean values of chla have decreased in many but not all months, indicating altered seasonal patterns. The most striking change has been the decrease in chla concentration during the spring bloom.

Mean chlorophyll a concentration was 17% higher in Lake Michigan than in Lake Huron, and total production for 2008 in Lake Michigan (9.5 tg year−1) was 10% greater than in Lake Huron (7.8 tg year−1), even though Lake Michigan is slightly smaller (by 3%) than Lake Huron. Differences between the lakes in the early 1970s evidently persisted to 2008.

Invasive mussels influenced temporal trends in spring chla and annual primary production. However, TP had a greater effect on chla and primary production than did the mussels, and TP varied independently from them. Two climatic variables (precipitation and air temperature in the basins) influenced annual chla and annual PP, while the extent of ice cover influenced TP but not chla or primary production. Our results demonstrate that observed temporal patterns in chla and PP are the result of complex interactions of P, climate and invasive mussels.
Thermal acclimation modulates the impacts of temperature and enrichment on trophic interaction strengths and population dynamics
Authors: Sentis Arnaud , Morisson Julie , Boukal David S.
Published: March 2015

Global change affects individual phenotypes and biotic interactions, which can have cascading effects up to the ecosystem level. However, the role of environmentally induced phenotypic plasticity in species interactions is poorly understood, leaving a substantial gap in our knowledge of the impacts of global change on ecosystems. Using a cladoceran–dragonfly system, we experimentally investigated the effects of thermal acclimation, acute temperature change and enrichment on predator functional response and metabolic rate. Using our experimental data, we next parameterized a population dynamics model to determine the consequences of these effects on trophic interaction strength and food‐chain stability. We found that (1) predation and metabolic rates of the dragonfly larvae increase with acute warming, (2) warm‐acclimated larvae have a higher maximum predation rate than cold‐acclimated ones, and (3) long‐term interaction strength increases with enrichment but decreases with both acclimation and acute temperatures. Overall, our experimental results show that thermal acclimation can buffer negative impacts of environmental change on predators and increase food‐web stability and persistence. We conclude that the effect of acclimation and, more generally, phenotypic plasticity on trophic interactions should not be overlooked if we aim to understand the effects of climate change and enrichment on species interaction strength and food‐web stability.
A meta‐analysis of climate change effects on forage quality in grasslands: specificities of mountain and Mediterranean areas
Authors: Dumont B. , Andueza D. , Niderkorn V. , Lüscher A. , Porqueddu C. , Picon‐Cochard C.
Published: March 2015

Atmospheric carbon dioxide (CO2), global mean temperature and interannual variability in temperature and rainfall are expected to increase significantly by the end of the 21st century. To review the effects of these factors on forage quality, we carried out a meta‐analysis of climate manipulation experiments. The first notable result was a lack of effect of elevated CO2 on structural carbohydrates and digestibility. Elevated CO2 increased the total non‐structural carbohydrates of forage tissues by an average of 25% and decreased forage nitrogen (N) content by 8%. Increased legume abundance in multispecies swards can, however, maintain N concentration in the harvested biomass. There were no consistent effects of warming on contents of N, water‐soluble and structural carbohydrates, or on digestibility. We highlight the continuum in the effect of water availability, from drought to irrigation, with a curvilinear increase of forage N as water availability decreased. Digestibility increased, on average, by 7% with drought, but with strong experimental variations. The review places special emphasis on discussion of the specificities of mountain and Mediterranean grasslands, the former being limited by low temperature, the latter by drought and heat. Elevated CO2 decreased forage N content in mountain areas and in temperate plains alike. It increased N content by an average of 3% in Mediterranean areas; this could be due to shifts in vegetation communities under elevated CO2 or to a greater concentration of N in plant tissues under drought conditions. Further experiments are needed to investigate the effects of combined factors, including extreme climatic events.
Impact of acute geriatric care in elderly patients according to the Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right Treatment criteria in northern France
Authors: Frély Anne , Chazard Emmanuel , Pansu Aymeric , Beuscart Jean‐Baptiste , Puisieux François
Published: March 2015

Introduction

In France, over 20% of hospitalizations of elderly people are a result of adverse drug events, of which 50% are considered preventable. Tools have been developed to detect inappropriate prescriptions. The Screening Tool of Older Persons' Prescriptions/Screening Tool to Alert doctors to Right Treatment (STOPP/START) criteria are innovative and adapted to French prescriptions. This is one of the first French prospective studies to evaluate the impact of acute geriatric care on prescriptions at discharge in elderly patients using the STOPP/START criteria.

Method

The evaluation of prescriptions according to STOPP/START was carried out on admission and at discharge of patients in acute geriatric units at three hospitals in the Nord‐Pas de Calais region, France. A total of 202 elderly hospitalized patients were included during the 4.5 months of the study (1.5 months per center).

Results

The mean number of drugs was seven on admission and at discharge. Over half of the prescriptions at admission contained at least one potentially inappropriate medication or one potential prescription omission. The prescriptions at discharge contained significantly fewer potentially inappropriate medications than prescriptions on admission (P < 0.001). In contrast, there was no difference between prescriptions at discharge in terms of potential prescription omissions.

Conclusion

Acute geriatric hospitalization in France improves prescriptions in terms of potentially inappropriate medication, but has no impact on potential prescription omissions. Further studies must be carried out to see if STOPP/START could be used as a tool in French prescription. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 272–278.
Incorporating Stream Features into Groundwater Contouring Tools Within GIS
Authors: Bannister Roger , Kennelly Patrick
Published: March 2015

Hydrogeologists often are called upon to estimate surfaces from discrete, sparse data points. This estimation is often accomplished by manually drawing contours on maps using interpolation methods between points of known value while accounting for features known to influence the water table's surface. By contrast, geographic information systems (GIS) are good at creating smooth continuous surfaces from limited data points and allowing the user to represent the resulting surface resulting with contours, but these automated methods often fail to meet the expectations of many hydrogeologists because they do not include knowledge of other influences on the water table. In this study, we seek to fill this gap in the GIS‐based methodology for hydrogeologists through an interactive tool that shapes an interpolated surface based on additional knowledge of the water table inferred from gaining or losing streams. The modified surface is reflected in water table contours that, for example, “V” upstream for gaining streams, and can be interactively adjusted to fit the user's expectations. By modifying not only the contours but also the associated interpolated surface, additional contours will follow the same trend, and the modified surface can be used for other analyses like calculating average gradients and flow paths. The tool leverages Esri's ArcGIS Desktop software, building upon a robust suite of mapping tools. We see this as a prototype for other tools that could be developed for hydrogeologists to account for variations in the water table inferred from local topographic trends, pumping or injection wells, and other hydrogeologic features.
Current Approaches to Medieval Historiography
Authors: Lake Justin
Published: March 2015

In recent decades a variety of approaches have been adopted to wring as much meaning as possible out of medieval chronicles and narrative histories. Moving past the use of these texts merely as source material to reconstruct the history of the Middle Ages, scholars have begun to focus to an increasing extent on topics such as authorial intention, social and political function, audience, and textual transmission. This essay charts the development of new approaches to medieval historiography, focusing on: 1) the analysis of fictional elements in history; 2) the relationship between politics and history; and 3) the return to manuscripts as primary sites of historical communication.
Theorizing Conversion: Christianity, Colonization, and Consciousness in the Early Modern Atlantic World
Authors: Gerbner Katharine
Published: March 2015

While Christian evangelization and conversion were often the primary justifications for imperial expansion in the early modern Atlantic world, the meaning of the word “conversion” remains contested among scholars, particularly when used to refer to non‐European conversion to Christianity. Several historians have argued that the term “conversion” simplifies a complex process and reiterates a missionary mindset. This article surveys a variety of alternatives to the word “conversion,” including syncretism, hybridity, affiliation, appropriation, and practice. While assessing the benefits and drawbacks of each of these terms, it argues that discarding the word “conversion” risks minimizing or overlooking the experiences of non‐European converts. Instead, it is more accurate to say that conversion – for both Europeans and non‐Europeans – was a process of transformation that occurred on multiple planes. The social, cultural, and political implications are easier to identify in the historical record, but historians also need to take seriously the possibility of religious transformation as well.

In order to do so, this essay draws on literature from the fields of anthropology and religious studies to identify two methods that can be particularly useful for describing non‐European conversion: first, an emphasis on “lived religion” can help historians move past the misconception that Christianity is a bound system. By focusing on practice rather than doctrine, it de‐centers missionaries and seeks, instead, to examine religious practice from the “bottom up.” Second, interrogating the process of translation has great potential for historians of conversion, particularly during a period of colonial encounter. By exploring how Christian terms were redefined through their translation into non‐European languages, historians will gain better insight into the cosmologies, beliefs, and practices of Native Americans and Africans. By using these methods – and recognizing that the meaning of “conversion” is, and always has been, in flux – historians can move past the “missionary mindset” and acknowledge the significance of the choice that many non‐Europeans made to engage in Christian rites.
Comparison of apically extruded debris after root canal instrumentation using Reciproc® instruments with various kinematics
Authors: Arslan H. , Doğanay E. , Alsancak M. , Çapar I. D. , Karataş E. , Gündüz H. A.
Published: March 2015

Aim

To assess the amount of apically extruded debris using Reciproc® instruments with different kinematics (150° counter clockwise [CCW]–30° clockwise [CW], 270° CCW–30° CW, 360° CCW–30° CW and continuous rotation).

Methodology

Forty‐eight maxillary central incisors were selected and assigned to four root canal shaping groups as follows (n = 12): 150° CCW–30° CW, 270° CCW–30° CW, 360° CCW–30° CW and continuous rotation. Reciproc R25 and R50® instruments were used in all groups. Apically extruded debris was collected and dried in preweighed Eppendorf tubes. The weight of extruded debris was assessed with an electronic balance. The data were analysed with one way analysis of variance and LSD post hoc tests (P = 0.05).

Results

The 150° CCW–30° CW and 270° CCW–30° CW reciprocating motions extruded significantly less debris than continuous rotation (P < 0.05). However, no significant differences were found between the 360° CCW and 30° CW reciprocating motion and the continuous rotation (P > 0.05).

Conclusions

All instrument movements were associated with apically extruded debris. However, the 150° CCW–30° CW and 270° CCW–30° CW reciprocating motions were associated with less extrusion than continuous rotation.
A review of herbal medicines in wound healing
Authors: Maver Tina , Maver Uroš , Stana Kleinschek Karin , Smrke Dragica M. , Kreft Samo
Published: March 2015

Herbs have been integral to both traditional and non‐traditional forms of medicine dating back at least 5000 years. The enduring popularity of herbal medicines may be explained by the perception that herbs cause minimal unwanted side effects. More recently, scientists increasingly rely on modern scientific methods and evidence‐based medicine to prove efficacy of herbal medicines and focus on better understanding of mechanisms of their action. However, information concerning quantitative human health benefits of herbal medicines is still rare or dispersed, limiting their proper valuation. Preparations from traditional medicinal plants are often used for wound healing purposes covering a broad area of different skin‐related diseases. Herbal medicines in wound management involve disinfection, debridement, and provision of a suitable environment for aiding the natural course of healing. Here we report on 22 plants used as wound healing agents in traditional medicine around the world. The aim of this review is therefore to review herbal medicines, which pose great potential for effective treatment of minor wounds.
Preparation and characterisation of soya milk enriched with isoflavone aglycone fermented by lactic acid bacteria combined with hydrothermal cooking pretreatment
Authors: Yang Juan , Bao Zhining , Wu Nana , Yang Xiaoquan , Lin Weifeng , Chen Zhong , Wang Jinmei , Guo Jian
Published: March 2015

A fermented soya milk (FSM) enriched with isoflavone aglycone (FSM‐SPIA) was prepared from heated soya protein isolate (SPI)‐isoflavone complex. After 48 h of fermentation, FSM‐SPIA contained higher contents of living bacteria, free amino acids and aglycone compared with the FSM of SPI (FSM‐SPI) and the FSM of SPI‐isoflavone complex (FSM‐Mix). In the in‐vitro digestion experiment, FSM‐SPIA showed higher antioxidant capacity and isoflavones (ISO) bioavailability than FSM‐SPI and FSM‐Mix. This was likely due to the soya milk containing a higher level of amino acid, peptides and the presence of soya bean isoflavone. The improved protein digestibility, the interaction and binding ability between proteins and ISO may affect the properties of the protein and the fermented products. The FSM enriched with isoflavone aglycone can be used as a functional fermented drink, as well as an auxiliary food for menopausal women during a specific pathological period.
The Warburg effect in mycobacterial granulomas is dependent on the recruitment and activation of macrophages by interferon‐γ
Authors: Appelberg Rui , Moreira Diana , Barreira‐Silva Palmira , Borges Margarida , Silva Letícia , Dinis‐Oliveira Ricardo Jorge , Resende Mariana , Correia‐Neves Margarida , Jordan Michael B. , Ferreira Nuno C. , Abrunhosa Antero J. , Silvestre Ricardo
Published: March 2015

Granulomas are the hallmark of mycobacterial disease. Here, we demonstrate that both the cell recruitment and the increased glucose consumption in granulomatous infiltrates during Mycobacterium avium infection are highly dependent on interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ). Mycobacterium avium‐infected mice lacking IFN‐γ signalling failed to developed significant inflammatory infiltrations and lacked the characteristic uptake of the glucose analogue fluorine‐18‐fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG). To assess the role of macrophages in glucose uptake we infected mice with a selective impairment of IFN‐γ signalling in the macrophage lineage (MIIG mice). Although only a partial reduction of the granulomatous areas was observed in infected MIIG mice, the insensitivity of macrophages to IFN‐γ reduced the accumulation of FDG. In vivo, ex vivo and in vitro assays showed that macrophage activated by IFN‐γ displayed increased rates of glucose uptake and in vitro studies showed also that they had increased lactate production and increased expression of key glycolytic enzymes. Overall, our results show that the activation of macrophages by IFN‐γ is responsible for the Warburg effect observed in organs infected with M. avium.
Distinct sustained structural and functional effects of interleukin‐33 and interleukin‐25 on the airways in a murine asthma surrogate
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Wei , Huang Ping , Zhang Qian , Yao Xiujuan , Wang Jingjing , Lv Zhe , An Yunqing , Corrigan Chris J. , Huang Kewu , Ying Sun
Published: March 2015

Interleukin‐25 (IL‐25) and IL‐33, which belong to distinct cytokine families, induce and promote T helper type 2 airway inflammation. Both cytokines probably play a role in asthma, but there is a lack of direct evidence to clarify distinctions between their functions and how they might contribute to distinct ‘endotypes’ of disease. To address this, we made a direct comparison of the effects of IL‐25 and IL‐33 on airway inflammation and physiology in our established murine asthma surrogate, which involves per‐nasal, direct airway challenge. Intranasal challenge with IL‐33 or IL‐25 induced inflammatory cellular infiltration, collagen deposition, airway smooth muscle hypertrophy, angiogenesis and airway hyper‐responsiveness, but neither increased systemic production of IgE or IgG1. Compared with that of IL‐25, the IL‐33‐induced response was characterized by more sustained laying down of extracellular matrix protein, neoangiogenesis, T helper type 2 cytokine expression and elevation of tissue damping. Hence, both IL‐25 and IL‐33 may contribute significantly and independently to asthma ‘endotypes’ when considering molecular targets for the treatment of human disease.
Macrophages play an essential role in antigen‐specific immune suppression mediated by T CD8+ cell‐derived exosomes
Authors: Nazimek Katarzyna , Ptak Wlodzimierz , Nowak Bernadeta , Ptak Maria , Askenase Philip W. , Bryniarski Krzysztof
Published: March 2015

Murine contact sensitivity (CS) reaction could be antigen‐specifically regulated by T CD8+ suppressor (Ts) lymphocytes releasing microRNA‐150 in antibody light‐chain‐coated exosomes that were formerly suggested to suppress CS through action on macrophages (Mφ). The present studies investigated the role of Mφ in Ts cell‐exosome‐mediated antigen‐specific suppression as well as modulation of Mφ antigen‐presenting function in humoral and cellular immunity by suppressive exosomes. Mice depleted of Mφ by clodronate liposomes could not be tolerized and did not produce suppressive exosomes. Moreover, isolated T effector lymphocytes transferring CS were suppressed by exosomes only in the presence of Mφ, demonstrating the substantial role of Mφ in the generation and action of Ts cell regulatory exosomes. Further, significant decrease of number of splenic B cells producing trinitrophenyl (TNP) ‐specific antibodies with the alteration of the ratio of serum titres of IgM to IgG was observed in recipients of exosome‐treated, antigen‐pulsed Mφ and the significant suppression of CS was demonstrated in recipients of exosome‐treated, TNP‐conjugated Mφ. Additionally, exosome‐pulsed, TNP‐conjugated Mφ mediated suppression of CS in mice pre‐treated with a low‐dose of cyclophosphamide, suggesting de novo induction of T regulatory (Treg) lymphocytes. Treg cell involvement in the effector phase of the studied suppression mechanism was proved by unsuccessful tolerization of DEREG mice depleted of Treg lymphocytes. Furthermore, the inhibition of proliferation of CS effector cells cultured with exosome‐treated Mφ in a transmembrane manner was observed. Our results demonstrated the essential role of Mφ in antigen‐specific immune suppression mediated by Ts cell‐derived exosomes and realized by induction of Treg lymphocytes and inhibition of T effector cell proliferation.
Healthcare workers' willingness to work during an influenza pandemic: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Aoyagi Yumiko , Beck Charles R. , Dingwall Robert , Nguyen‐Van‐Tam Jonathan S.
Published: March 2015

To estimate the proportion of healthcare workers (HCWs) willing to work during an influenza pandemic and identify associated risk factors, we undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis compliant with PRISMA guidance. Databases and grey literature were searched to April 2013, and records were screened against protocol eligibility criteria. Data extraction and risk of bias assessments were undertaken using a piloted form. Random‐effects meta‐analyses estimated (i) pooled proportion of HCWs willing to work and (ii) pooled odds ratios of risk factors associated with willingness to work. Heterogeneity was quantified using the I2 statistic, and publication bias was assessed using funnel plots and Egger's test. Data were synthesized narratively where meta‐analyses were not possible. Forty‐three studies met our inclusion criteria. Meta‐analysis of the proportion of HCWs willing to work was abandoned due to excessive heterogeneity (I2 = 99·2%). Narrative synthesis showed study estimates ranged from 23·1% to 95·8% willingness to work, depending on context. Meta‐analyses of specific factors showed that male HCWs, physicians and nurses, full‐time employment, perceived personal safety, awareness of pandemic risk and clinical knowledge of influenza pandemics, role‐specific knowledge, pandemic response training, and confidence in personal skills were statistically significantly associated with increased willingness. Childcare obligations were significantly associated with decreased willingness. HCWs' willingness to work during an influenza pandemic was moderately high, albeit highly variable. Numerous risk factors showed a statistically significant association with willingness to work despite significant heterogeneity between studies. None of the included studies were based on appropriate theoretical constructs of population behaviour.
The living wage: Theoretical integration and an applied research agenda
Authors: CARR Stuart C. , PARKER Jane , ARROWSMITH James , WATTERS Paul A.
Published: March 2015

The concept of a living wage is defined by quality of life and work life, not merely economic subsistence. It extends to adequate participation in organizational and social life. In development economics, these crucial components of “decent work” connect with “capabilities”, whose development is important to individuals, organizations and society. However, the links between income and capabilities remain unknown, and living wages are often set by fiat. By integrating theories from development studies, management, psychology and employment relations into a single concentric, contingency model, the authors derive a series of propositions with which to test this context‐sensitive model in empirical research.