bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Can Stable Isotopes and Radiocarbon Dating Provide a Forensic Solution for Curbing Illegal Harvesting of Threatened Cycads?
Authors: Retief Kirsten , West Adam G. , Pfab Michèle F.
Published: October 2014

Cycads in South Africa are facing an extinction crisis due to the illegal extraction of plants from the wild. Proving wild origin of suspect ex situ cycads to the satisfaction of a court of law is difficult, limiting law enforcement efforts. We investigated the feasibility of using multiple stable isotopes to identify specimens removed from the wild. Relocated and wild specimens from two species in the African genus Encephalartos (E. lebomboensis and E. arenarius) were sampled. 14C analysis indicated that a ± 30‐year chronology could be reliably obtained from the cycads. For E. arenarius, pre‐relocation tissue was consistent with a wild origin, whereas tissue grown post‐relocation was isotopically distinct from the wild for 87Sr/86Sr and δ15N. For E. lebomboensis, δ34S, δ18O, and 87Sr/86Sr were different between relocated and control plants, consistent with the >30 years since relocation. Our findings demonstrate the potential for a forensic isotope approach to identify illegal ex situ cycads.
MtDNA COI‐COII marker and drone congregation area: An efficient method to establish and monitor honeybee (Apis mellifera L.) conservation centres
Authors: Bertrand Bénédicte , Alburaki Mohamed , Legout Hélène , Moulin Sibyle , Mougel Florence , Garnery Lionel
Published: October 2014

Honeybee subspecies have been affected by human activities in Europe over the past few decades. One such example is the importation of nonlocal subspecies of bees which has had an adverse impact on the geographical repartition and subsequently on the genetic diversity of the black honeybee Apis mellifera mellifera. To restore the original diversity of this local honeybee subspecies, different conservation centres were set up in Europe. In this study, we established a black honeybee conservation centre Conservatoire de l'Abeille Noire d'Ile de France (CANIF) in the region of Ile‐de‐France, France. CANIF's honeybee colonies were intensively studied over a 3‐year period. This study included a drone congregation area (DCA) located in the conservation centre. MtDNA COI‐COII marker was used to evaluate the genetic diversity of CANIF's honeybee populations and the drones found and collected from the DCA. The same marker (mtDNA) was used to estimate the interactions and the haplotype frequency between CANIF's honeybee populations and 10 surrounding honeybee apiaries located outside of the CANIF. Our results indicate that the colonies of the conservation centre and the drones of the DCA show similar stable profiles compared to the surrounding populations with lower level of introgression. The mtDNA marker used on both DCA and colonies of the conservation centre seems to be an efficient approach to monitor and maintain the genetic diversity of the protected honeybee populations.
Nicotine Infusion in the Wake‐Promoting Basal Forebrain Enhances Alcohol‐Induced Activation of Nucleus Accumbens
Authors: Sharma Rishi , Dumontier Samuel , DeRoode David , Sahota Pradeep , Thakkar Mahesh M.
Published: October 2014

Background

Nicotine and alcohol co‐abuse is highly prevalent. Recently, we have shown that nicotine infusion in the basal forebrain (BF) increases alcohol consumption. As nucleus accumbens (NAc) is the terminal brain region associated with drug addiction, we hypothesize that nicotine infusion in the BF may enhance alcohol‐induced activation of NAc.

Methods

Adult male Sprague–Dawley rats were surgically implanted with bilateral guide cannulas in the BF. Following postoperative recovery, rats were divided into 4 groups: (i) ACSF + W group received artificial cerebrospinal fluid (ACSF; 500 nl/side) in the BF and systemic water (intragastric [ig]; 10 ml/kg; N = 5), (ii) ethanol (EtOH) group received ACSF in the BF (500 nl/side) and systemic alcohol (ig; 3 g/kg; N = 5), (iii) NiC group received nicotine in the BF (75 pmole/500 nl/side) and systemic water (ig; 10 ml/kg; N = 5), and (iv) NiC + EtOH group received nicotine in the BF (75 pmole/500 nl/side) and systemic alcohol (ig; 3 g/kg; N = 5). Rats were euthanized 2 hours after treatment to examine c‐Fos expression in the NAc by immunohistochemistry.

Results

All injections sites were localized in the BF. Two‐way analysis of variance (ig vs. infusion) revealed significant main effects of both treatments (ig and infusion, p < 0.001) on c‐Fos expression in the NAc shell, but not in the core. Subsequent post hoc test (Bonferroni's) revealed that as compared to ACSF + W group, c‐Fos expression was significantly increased in the shell of NAc of rats in all 3 (EtOH, NiC, and NiC + EtOH) groups with maximal increase observed in NiC + EtOH group.

Conclusions

The results suggest the following: (i) BF nicotine infusion induced c‐Fos in both core and the shell region of NAc at levels comparable to those observed after systemic alcohol administration; (ii) BF nicotine infusion with systemic alcohol induced a significant additive increase in c‐Fos expression only in the NAc shell region. These findings implicate the BF in alcohol and nicotine co‐use.
Stigma and the addiction paradigm for obesity: lessons from 1950s America
Authors: Rasmussen Nicolas
Published: October 2014

Aims

To discuss an historical episode in which obesity was conceptualized as an addictive disorder and declared to be a major epidemic in the early postwar United States. This history illuminates past consequences of framing obesity as an addiction in ways that may inform constructive policy responses today.

Methods

Review of secondary and primary sources, including archival documents, relating to obesity in biomedical and popular thought of the 1940s and 1950s.

Results

In the United States in the late 1940s and 1950s, new medical thinking about obesity reinterpreted overweight and obesity as chiefly the consequence of addiction (understood in the then dominant psychodynamic theory as a psychological defect, oral fixation). This new conception was rapidly taken up in popular discourse and clinical practice, with adverse effects through amplification of weight stigma. Further, in the conservative political context, the addiction concept contributed to an ineffective policy response to the alarming new epidemiological evidence about obesity's consequences. Despite a lack of evidence for efficacy of the intervention, public health efforts focused on correcting individual eating behaviour among obese people by encouraging self‐help in lay groups modelled, in part, on Alcoholics Anonymous. Population‐level intervention was neglected.

Conclusions

Current public health policy initiatives must be mindful of the risks of reframing obesity as an addiction. These include inadvertently reinforcing stigma, narrowing responses to those aiming to modify individual behaviour and biology and neglecting population policies aiming to reduce the consumption of energy‐dense foods, as all occurred in the 1950s United States.
Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis in a gadolinium‐naïve patient: Successful treatment with oral sirolimus
Authors: Ross Christopher , De Rosa Nicholas , Marshman Gillian , Astill David
Published: October 2014

A 52‐year old woman with chronic renal failure presented with tender buttock nodules, bilateral non‐tender periocular papules and yellow scleral plaques. The patient then developed sclerodermoid changes of the hands, as well as woody induration, oedema and hyperpigmentation of lower limbs. There was no previous exposure to gadolinium contrast. Her histology and clinical features were consistent with nephrogenic systemic fibrosis. Treatment with oral sirolimus resulted in a marked reduction of induration and oedema, and an improvement in distal upper limb and lower limb joint mobility.
Cutaneous CD30 positive lymphoproliferative disorders with coexistent epithelial neoplasms: Report of two cases
Authors: Newland Kate M , McCormack Christopher J , Prince H Miles , Lade Stephen
Published: October 2014

Primary cutaneous large cell anaplastic lymphoma (C‐ALCL) and lymphomatoid papulosis (LyP) are cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorders (CD30+ LPD). An association with CD30+ LPD and pseudoepitheliomatous hyperplasia has been recognized. Additionally, rare reports of epithelial neoplasms such as keratoacanthomas and squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) occurring in association with both C‐ALCL and LyP have been reported. We report two cases of CD30+ LPD with associated epithelial neoplasms; one patient with a primary cutaneous CD30+ LPD and SCC identified within the same lesion, and the other with a keratoacanthoma arising in a lesion of LyP. The pathogenesis of this association is poorly understood although various hypotheses exist. Awareness of the coexistence of these entities will avoid misdiagnosis and incorrect treatment.
Semen characteristics and malondialdehyde levels in men with different reproductive problems
Authors: Collodel G. , Moretti E. , Micheli L. , Menchiari A. , Moltoni L. , Cerretani D.
Published: October 2014

The aim of this study was to assess the level of malondialdehyde (MDA) in the seminal plasma of infertile men and to highlight a relationship between the level of MDA and semen parameters. Eighty‐one infertile patients were divided into groups according to their clinical diagnosis: genitourinary infections, varicocele and idiopathic infertility. Semen quality was assessed by light and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). TEM data were quantified with a mathematical formula able to obtain a fertility index and the percentage of sperm apoptosis, immaturity, and necrosis. Seminal MDA levels were determined by spectrofluorometry. Scrotal Eco‐color Doppler was used to detect the varicocele. Infected patients had a positive bacteriological semen analysis. A control group consisted of 14 normospermic fertile men. Fertile group showed significantly increased values of sperm concentration, motility, and fertility index compared to infertile groups. In the infertile groups, sperm motility, concentration, apoptosis, and fertility index were not significantly different. In infection group, the percentage of necrosis was significantly higher than that observed in fertile men, varicocele, and idiopathic infertility groups (p < 0.001). MDA levels increased significantly in infection group in comparison with varicocele group (p < 0.01), idiopathic infertility group, and fertile men (p < 0.001) and in varicocele group compared to idiopathic infertility group (p < 0.001). In infection group, MDA levels positively correlated with sperm concentration (p < 0.01), fertility index (p < 0.05), and necrosis (p < 0.001), whereas a negative correlation was found with motility (p < 0.01). In varicocele group MDA levels correlated positively with necrosis and negatively with immaturity (p < 0.05). In fertile men and idiopathic infertility group, they did not show any correlation. In conclusion, we suggest that the evaluation of seminal MDA may be a good marker for understanding pathologies responsible of a sperm motility reduction such as urogenital infections or inflammatory status.
Farr, Fiona & Moriarty, Máiréad ed (2013) Language, learning and teachingPeter Lang (New York & Bern) isbn 978‐3‐0343‐0871‐7 242 pp £40 http://www.peterlang.com/index.cfm?event=cmp.ccc.seitenstruktur.detailseiten&seitentyp=produkt&pk=67740
Authors: Garcia Laborda Jesus
Published: October 2014

This volume will be of interest to those considering the potential of languages which not long ago were limited by geography but whose diffusion can now be considerably enhanced by technology. If it seems relevant to you, I advise that you will probably find only parts of the text of some real interest or use.

Jésus Garcia Laborda
Greaney, Vincent & Kellaghan, Thomas ed (2012) Implementing a national assessment of educational achievementWorld Bank Publications (Washington & Eurospan, London) isbn 978‐0‐8213‐8589‐0 260 pp £21.95 (free download) http://web.worldbank.org/WBSITE/EXTERNAL/TOPICS/EXTEDUCATION/0,,contentMDK:22301663~menuPK:5495844~pagePK:148956~piPK:216618~theSitePK:282386,00.html
Authors: García Laborda Jesús
Published: October 2014

This book is a guide to implementing national external assessments which avoids the constraints of difficult ideas and even more sophisticated language. It provides an accessible direct line for those willing to try to understand such a sophisticated issue. If it could be relevant to your work, you may wish to borrow a copy or—better!—download it from the internet.

Jesús García Laborda
Sutton, Brian & Basiel, Anthony ed (2013) Teaching and learning online, Volume 2Routledge (New York & London) isbn 978‐0‐415‐52857‐3 292 pp £22.99 http://www.routledge.com/books/details/9780415528573/
Authors: Cowan John
Published: October 2014

The editors set out to present and unite writings to assist teacher readers to concern themselves less with serving up content and more with creating socially relevant experiences, and, by melding theory and practice, with providing guidance for online learners to support their cognitive processes. Some of the writers succeed in that, but the overall impression is of a fragmented collection. If the content of this book is likely to be relevant to you, I advise that you will probably find only parts of it of interest or use.

John Cowan
Lecture Capture Technology and Student Performance in an Operations Management Course
Authors: Sloan Thomas W. , Lewis David A.
Published: October 2014

Lecture capture technologies (LCT) such as Echo360, Mediasite, and Tegrity have become very popular in recent years. Many studies have shown that students favor the use of such technology, but relatively little research has studied the impact of LCT on learning. This article examines two research questions: (1) whether the use of LCT actually enhances learning outcomes, and (2) how instructors can increase students’ use of lecture capture materials. We address these questions using data from an undergraduate Operations Management course at a mid‐size, public university. Results indicate that access of lecture capture videos is associated with higher exam scores, even after controlling for previous exam performance. In addition, efforts to promote the use of lecture capture materials increase their use. We offer several suggestions to instructors who wish to increase their students’ use of lecture capture materials, which are equally applicable across all disciplines.
The functional response predicts the effect of resource distribution on the optimal movement rate of consumers
Authors: Calcagno Vincent , Grognard Frédéric , Hamelin Frédéric M. , Wajnberg Éric , Mailleret Ludovic
Published: October 2014

Understanding how often individuals should move when foraging over patchy habitats is a central question in ecology. By combining optimality and functional response theories, we show analytically how the optimal movement rate varies with the average resource level (enrichment) and resource distribution (patch heterogeneity). We find that the type of functional response predicts the effect of enrichment in homogeneous habitats: enrichment should decrease movement for decelerating functional responses, but increase movement for accelerating responses. An intermediate resource level thus maximises movement for type‐III responses. Counterintuitively, greater movement costs favour an increase in movement. In heterogeneous habitats predictions further depend on how enrichment alters the variance of resource distribution. Greater patch variance always increases the optimal rate of movement, except for type‐IV functional responses. While the functional response is well established as a fundamental determinant of consumer–resource dynamics, our results indicate its importance extends to the understanding of individual movement strategies.
Surface controls on the characteristics of natural CO2 seeps: implications for engineered CO2 stores
Authors: Roberts J. J. , Wood R. A. , Wilkinson M. , Haszeldine S.
Published: October 2014

CO2 injected into rock formations for deep geological storage must not leak to surface, since this would be economically and environmentally unfavourable, and could present a human health hazard. In Italy natural CO2 degassing to the surface via seeps is widespread, providing an insight into the various styles of subsurface ‘plumbing’ as well as surface expression of CO2 fluids. Here we investigate surface controls on the distribution of CO2 seep characteristics (type, flux and temperature) using a large geographical and historical data set. When the locations of documented seeps are compared to a synthetic statistically random data set, we find that the nature of the CO2 seeps is most strongly governed by the flow properties of the outcropping rocks, and local topography. Where low‐permeability rocks outcrop, numerous dry seeps occur and have a range of fluxes. Aqueous fluid flow will be limited in these low‐permeability rocks, and so relative permeability effects may enable preferential CO2 flow. CO2 vents typically occur along faults in rocks that are located above the water table or are low permeability. Diffuse seeps develop where CO2 (laterally supplied by these faults) emerges from the vadose zone and where CO2 degassing from groundwater follows a different flow path due to flow differences for water and CO2 gas. Bubbling water seeps (characterized by water bubbling with CO2) arise where CO2 supply enters the phreatic zone or an aquifer. CO2‐rich springs often emerge where valleys erode into CO2 aquifers, and these are typically high flux seeps. Seep type is known to influence human health risk at CO2 seeps in Italy, as well as the topography surrounding the seep which affects the rate of gas dispersion by wind. Identifying the physical controls on potential seep locations and seep type above engineered CO2 storage operations is therefore crucial to targeted site monitoring strategy and risk assessment. The surface geology and topography above a CO2 store must therefore be characterized in order to design the most effective monitoring strategy.
Incidence du handicap sur l'absentéisme: faits observés dans six pays de l'Union européenne
Authors: GARCÍA‐SERRANO Carlos , MALO Miguel Á.
Published: October 2014

Partant des données collectées dans six pays de l'Union européenne (Autriche, Espagne, Grèce, Irlande, Italie et Portugal) entre 1995 et 2001, les auteurs étudient l'infuence du handicap sur l'absentéisme des travailleurs. Ils observent que les travailleurs handicapés sont plus souvent absents que les travailleurs valides, constat établi après contrôle des effets de l'état de santé des personnes interrogées, de la fréquence de leurs visites chez le médecin et du nombre de nuits d'hospitalisation. L'absentéisme s'accroît aussi avec la gravité du handicap. L'effet total du handicap représente une augmentation marginale de 6 à 26 jours d'absence par an, selon le pays.
Diferencias regionales de las primas por calificación en la China urbana. Repercusiones en el crecimiento y en la igualdad
Authors: WHALLEY John , XING Chunbing
Published: October 2014

A partir de datos de encuestas de hogares, los autores observan que las primas por calificación aumentaron en toda China entre 1995 y 2002, pero solo en las provincias costeras entre 2002 y 2007, año en que estas también registraron mayor desigualdad salarial y contribuyeron más a la desigualdad salarial urbana total. Según un modelo de efectos fijos estimado, la privatización explica la evolución del primer periodo, y la integración de China en la economía mundial, la del segundo. Reducir la desigualdad exige, según los autores, la reforma del Registro de Población Hukou, que obstaculiza la movilidad de los trabajadores calificados y posiblemente también el crecimiento.
Effect of Different Oximes on Rat and Human Cholinesterases Inhibited by Methamidophos: A Comparative In Vitro and In Silico Study
Authors: Lugokenski Thiago Henrique , Gubert Priscila , Bueno Diones Caeran , Nogara Pablo Andrei , de Aquino Saraiva Rogério , Barcelos Rômulo Pillon , Carratu Vanessa Santana , Bresolin Leandro , de Vargas Barbosa Nilda Berenice , Pereira Maria Ester , da Rocha João Batista Teixeira , Soares Félix Alexandre Antunes
Published: October 2014

Methamidophos is one of the most toxic organophosphorus (OP) compounds. It acts via phosphorylation of a serine residue in the active site of acetylcholinesterase (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase (BChE), leading to enzyme inactivation. Different oximes have been developed to reverse this inhibition. Thus, our work aimed to test the protective or reactivation capability of pralidoxime and obidoxime, as well as two new oximes synthesised in our laboratory, on human and rat cholinesterases inhibited by methamidophos. In addition, we performed molecular docking studies in non‐aged methamidophos‐inhibited AChE to understand the mechanisms involved. Our results suggested that pralidoxime protected and reactivated methamidophos‐inhibited rat brain AChE. Regarding human erythrocyte AChE, all oximes tested protected and reactivated the enzyme, with the best reactivation index observed at the concentration of 50 μM. Concerning BChE, butane‐2,3‐dionethiosemicarbazone oxime (oxime 1) was able to protect and reactivate the methamidophos‐inhibited BChE by 45% at 50 μM, whereas 2(3‐(phenylhydrazono)butan‐2‐one oxime (oxime 2) reactivated 28% of BChE activity at 100 μM. The two classical oximes failed to reactivate BChE. The molecular docking study demonstrated that pralidoxime appears to be better positioned in the active site to attack the O‐P moiety of the inhibited enzyme, being near the oxyanion hole, whereas our new oximes were stably positioned in the active site in a manner similar to that of obidoxime. In conclusion, our work demonstrated that the newly synthesised oximes were able to reactivate not only human erythrocyte AChE but also human plasma BChE, which could represent an advantage in the treatment of OP compounds poisoning.
Carbon Monoxide–Sensitive Apoptotic Death of Erythrocytes
Authors: Lang Elisabeth , Qadri Syed M. , Jilani Kashif , Zelenak Christine , Lupescu Adrian , Schleicher Erwin , Lang Florian
Published: October 2014

Carbon monoxide (CO) intoxication severely interferes with the oxygen‐transporting function of haemoglobin. Beyond that, CO participates in the regulation of apoptosis. CO could be generated from CO‐releasing molecules (CORM), such as the tricarbonyl‐dichlororuthenium (II) dimer (CORM‐2), which is presently considered for the treatment of vascular dysfunction, inflammation, tissue ischaemia and organ rejection. CORM‐2 is at least partially effective by modifying gene expression and mitochondrial potential. Erythrocytes lack nuclei and mitochondria but may undergo suicidal cell death or eryptosis, characterized by cell shrinkage and phospholipid scrambling of the cell membrane. Eryptosis is triggered by the increase in cytosolic
Ca2+

activity ([
Ca2+

]i). The present study explored whether CORM‐2 influences eryptosis. To this end, [
Ca2+

]i was estimated from Fluo‐3‐fluorescence, cell volume from forward scatter, phospholipid scrambling from annexin‐V‐binding and haemolysis from haemoglobin release. CO‐binding haemoglobin (COHb) was estimated utilizing a blood gas analyser. As a result, exposure of erythrocytes for 24 hr to CORM‐2 (≥5 μM) significantly increased COHb, [
Ca2+

]i, forward scatter, annexin‐V‐binding and haemolysis. Annexin‐V‐binding was significantly blunted by 100% oxygen and was virtually abolished in the nominal absence of
Ca2+

. In conclusion, CORM‐2 stimulates cell membrane scrambling of erythrocytes, an effect largely due to
Ca2+

entry and partially reversed by
O2

.
4‐Methylthioamphetamine Increases Dopamine in the Rat Striatum and has Rewarding Effects In Vivo
Authors: Sotomayor‐Zárate Ramón , Quiroz Gabriel , Araya Katherine A. , Abarca Jorge , Ibáñez María R. , Montecinos Alejandro , Guajardo Carlos , Núñez Gabriel , Fierro Angélica , Moya Pablo R. , Iturriaga‐Vásquez Patricio , Gómez‐Molina Cristóbal , Gysling Katia , Reyes‐Parada Miguel
Published: October 2014

4‐Methylthioamphetamine (MTA) is a phenylisopropylamine derivative whose use has been associated with severe intoxications. MTA is usually regarded as a selective serotonin‐releasing agent. Nevertheless, previous data have suggested that its mechanism of action probably involves a catecholaminergic component. As little is known about dopaminergic effects of this drug, in this work the actions of MTA upon the dopamine (DA) transporter (DAT) were studied in vitro, in vivo and in silico. Also, the possible abuse liability of MTA was behaviourally assessed. MTA exhibited an in vitro affinity for the rat DAT in the low micromolar range (6.01 μM) and induced a significant, dose‐dependent increase in striatal DA. MTA significantly increased c‐Fos‐positive cells in striatum and nucleus accumbens, induced conditioned place preference and increased locomotor activity. Docking experiments were performed in a homology model of the DAT. In conclusion, our results show that MTA is able to increase extracellular striatal DA levels and that its administration has rewarding properties. These effects were observed at concentrations or doses that can be relevant to its use in human beings.
Awareness of cognitive and social behaviour in a CSCL environment
Authors: Kirschner P.A. , Kreijns K. , Phielix C. , Fransen J.
Published: October 2014

Most distributed and virtual online environments for and pedagogies of computer‐supported collaborative learning (CSCL) neglect the social and social‐emotional aspects underlying the group dynamics of learning and working in a CSCL group. These group dynamics often determine whether the group will develop into a well‐performing team and whether a sound social space emerges. Using a theory‐based CSCL framework, two studies evaluated whether two tools, Radar and Reflector, supported cognitive, social and socio‐emotional aspects of team development, encouraging promotive interaction and group processing in the teams. While not affecting product quality, tool use did lead to groups who perceived their team as being better developed, as having higher levels of group satisfaction and lower levels of conflicts. The results support that promotive interaction and group processing was increased by using Radar and Reflector.
Overexpression of heat shock protein 27 (HSP27) increases gemcitabine sensitivity in pancreatic cancer cells through S‐phase arrest and apoptosis
Authors: Guo Yang , Ziesch Andreas , Hocke Sandra , Kampmann Eric , Ochs Stephanie , De Toni Enrico N. , Göke Burkhard , Gallmeier Eike
Published: October 2014

We previously established a role for HSP27 as a predictive marker for therapeutic response towards gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer. Here, we investigate the underlying mechanisms of HSP27‐mediated gemcitabine sensitivity. Utilizing a pancreatic cancer cell model with stable HSP27 overexpression, cell cycle arrest and apoptosis induction were analysed by flow cytometry, nuclear staining, immunoblotting and mitochondrial staining. Drug sensitivity studies were performed by proliferation assays. Hyperthermia was simulated using mild heat shock at 41.8°C. Upon gemcitabine treatment, HSP27‐overexpressing cells displayed an early S‐phase arrest subsequently followed by a strongly increased sub‐G1 fraction. Apoptosis was characterized by PARP‐, CASPASE 3‐, CASPASE 8‐, CASPASE 9‐ and BIM‐ activation along with a mitochondrial membrane potential loss. It was reversible through chemical caspase inhibition. Importantly, gemcitabine sensitivity and PARP cleavage were also elicited by heat shock‐induced HSP27 overexpression, although to a smaller extent, in a panel of pancreatic cancer cell lines. Finally, HSP27‐overexpressing pancreatic cancer cells displayed an increased sensitivity also towards death receptor‐targeting agents, suggesting another pro‐apoptotic role of HSP27 along the extrinsic apoptosis pathway. Taken together, in contrast to the well‐established anti‐apoptotic properties of HSP27 in cancer, our study reveals novel pro‐apoptotic functions of HSP27—mediated through both the intrinsic and the extrinsic apoptotic pathways—at least in pancreatic cancer cells. HSP27 could represent a predictive marker of therapeutic response towards specific drug classes in pancreatic cancer and provides a novel molecular rationale for current clinical trials applying the combination of gemcitabine with regional hyperthermia in pancreatic cancer patients.
Childbirth in women with intellectual disability: characteristics of their pregnancies and outcomes in an archived epidemiological dataset
Authors: Goldacre A. D. , Gray R. , Goldacre M. J.
Published: October 2014

Background

Historically, many women with intellectual disability (ID) did not have children. However, a few decades ago it became more common for women with ID to give birth. Our aim was to compare the completed pregnancies of mothers with ID with other completed pregnancies in a large, defined population.

Methods

We used the archived dataset of the Oxford record linkage study from 1970 to 1989, which included a specialized dataset of all maternities in a population of 850 000 people.

Results

There were 245 007 births, of which 217 were to mothers with a record of ID. Mothers with a record of ID were more likely than others to give birth at a young age, were much more likely to be unmarried (42% compared with 9%) and to have smoked in the pregnancy (54% compared with 23%). Comparing babies born of mothers with ID and others, percentages with very low birth weight (<2000 g) were similar at 1.9 and 1.8%. There was no excess of babies who were low birth weight for gestational age. Babies born of mothers with ID were much less likely than others to be breastfed (respectively, 33 and 70%). There were no significant associations with presentation at delivery, Caesarean section or forceps delivery. The distribution of Apgar scores at 1 min after birth was similar in babies of mothers with ID and other babies. The sex ratio of the babies was normal. Combining stillbirths and infant deaths, rates per 1000 were 27.9 for babies of mothers with ID and 13.4 in other babies (borderline significant at P = 0.07).

Conclusions

Comparing pregnancies and outcomes of mothers with and without ID, there are some important differences, and some important similarities. It is possible, however, that there may be differences over time and between different places in the care and outcomes of pregnancies in mothers with ID. In the modern era, with electronic health records, it should be possible for maternity services, both locally and on a whole population basis, routinely to monitor the pregnancies, and their outcomes, of mothers with ID.
Impact of prolonged dinoprostone cervical ripening on the rate of artificial induction of labor: A prospective study of 330 patients
Authors: Denoual‐Ziad Christine , Aicardi‐Nicolas Stéphanie , Creveuil Christian , Gaillard Cathy , Dreyfus Michel , Benoist Guillaume
Published: October 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate two regimens of administration of sustained‐release dinoprostone on the need for oxytocin induction of labor.

Material and Methods

We carried out an open prospective study comparing labor, maternal and neonatal outcomes after 12 h of prostaglandin cervical ripening insert versus 24 h of prostaglandin cervical ripening insert in 284 patients (142 ripenings at 12 h [P12group] and 142 ripenings at 24 h [P24group]).

Results

The two groups were demographically similar. There was a significant difference in the need for artificial rupture of membranes/oxytocin induction of labor between the groups (49.3% for theP12group vs 38% for theP24group,P = 0.03). The delay between the beginning of ripening and delivery was significantly decreased in theP12group, but the duration of active labor (6.6 h), the dose of oxytocics used (1326UI), the rate of cesarean section, the rate of uterine hyperstimulation, the rates of hemorrhaging from delivery, the neonatal state and the experience of induction were similar in the two groups.

Conclusion

This study allows us to show for the first time that sustained‐release of dinoprostone leads to spontaneous induction of labor without increasing the obstetrical risk in a majority of patients.
Evaluation of vitamin C and vitamin E for prevention of postoperative adhesion: A rat uterine horn model study
Authors: Atilgan Remzi , Kuloglu Tuncay , Ozkan Zehra Sema , Kavak Salih Burcin , Kumbak Banu , Deveci Derya , Simsek Mehmet , Baspinar Melike , Sapmaz Ekrem
Published: October 2014

Aim

To investigate the effectiveness of intraperitoneal vitamin C (VC) and vitamin E (VE) in the prevention of postoperative adhesion formation in a rat uterine horn model.

Methods

Twenty‐eight Wistar albino rats were divided into four groups in which: control group, the abdomen was opened and closed without any intervention; adhesion group, a 2‐cm linear incision was performed on the uterine horn and closed; VC group, VC was administrated i.p., and 15 min later a 2‐cm incision was performed on the uterine horn and closed; and VE group, VE was administrated i.p., and 15 min later a 2‐cm incision was performed on the uterine horn and closed. Re‐laparotomy was performed 15 days later. Right uterine horn adhesions were evaluated according to macromorphological characteristics and tissue sections were further examined for fibrosis, angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), type I collagen and malondialdehyde (MDA) scoring. Kruskal–Wallis anova and Mann–Whitney U‐test were utilized for statistical analysis.

Results

Adhesion area and also strength were significantly lower in the VC group and the VE group compared with the adhesion group. Fibrosis and angiogenesis scores were observed to be significantly higher in the adhesion group compared with the VC group and the VE group. MDA and VEGF immunoreactivity were also found to be significantly lower in the VC group and the VE group compared with the adhesion group. However, there was no significant difference between the VC group and the VE group with respect to all the above parameters.

Conclusion

Administration of VC or VE i.p. was observed to be effective in the prevention of postoperative adhesion formation in an experimental model.
The Influence of Digital Design and IT on Modular Product Architecture
Authors: Marion Tucker J. , Meyer Marc H. , Barczak Gloria
Published: October 2014

The architecture of a product is the design and specification of inherent subsystems, components, and interfaces between subsystems. Well‐defined interfaces allow the development of standardized subsystems that may be shared across product lines, e.g., technology platforms. Past research shows the benefits of modular product architecture in terms of improving cost of goods through common components and materials as well as improving development time cycles for derivative products. Product architecture does not occur by accident; it must be engineered and implemented. This study explores the impact of digital design and information technology (IT) on the development of modular product architectures. Through an empirical study of 122 firms and follow‐up interviews with several respondents, we study the impact of digital design tools and IT infrastructure on the development of modular product architecture and overall project outcomes. The results indicate that a firm's IT infrastructure has a strong, significant relationship with the development of modular product architecture. The findings also show a strong, positive relationship between the development of modular product architecture and project outcomes. However, in contrast to the common perception that digital design tools enhance R&D productivity and effectiveness, we do not find a significant relationship between digital design tool usage and modular product architecture or overall project outcomes. The findings suggest that digital design tools and their organizational implementation need improvement in up‐front new product development phases.
Works of Illness and the Challenges of Social Risk and the Specter of Pain in the Lived Experience of TMD
Authors: Eaves Emery R. , Nichter Mark , Ritenbaugh Cheryl , Sutherland Elizabeth , Dworkin Samuel F.
Published: October 2014

Temporomandibular Disorders (TMD) represent a particular form of chronic pain that, while not outwardly debilitating, profoundly impacts interactions as fundamental to human existence as smiling, laughing, speaking, eating, and intimacy. Our analysis, informed by an expanded “works of illness” assessment, draws attention to work surrounding social and physical risk. We refer to these as thework of stoicismand thework of vigilanceand identify double binds created in contexts that call for both. Conflicting authorial stances in informants’ narratives are shown to be essential in maintaining a positive identity in the face of illness. While earlier ethnographic studies report TMD sufferers’ experience of stigma and search for diagnosis and legitimacy, we present a group of individuals who have accepted diagnosis at face value and soldier through pain as a fundamental aspect of their identity.[chronic pain, works of illness, risk, double binds, temporomandibular disorders]
“I Don't Know the Words He Uses”: Therapeutic Communication among Q'eqchi Maya Healers and Their Patients
Authors: Waldram James B.
Published: October 2014

Traditional or indigenous healing is often assumed to involve rich forms of dialogical and symbolic communication between healer and patient that serve to explain its salience and efficacy. An ethnographic study of Q'eqchi Maya healing in Belize suggests, however, that communication in some forms of indigenous healing may also be minimal and peripheral to treatment and more akin to that of biomedicine than so‐called traditional medicine. While communication may still involve symbolic, intercorporeal, and other forms of subtle intersubjective connection, anthropologists often overreach in an effort to portray such healing systems in contradistinction to biomedicine. It is argued here that Q'eqchi healing might best be thought of as a form of empirically based restorative medicine in which communication is purely instrumental to the healer's task of diagnosing and eliminating pathology and restoring the health of the patient.
Reproductive strategies and isolation‐by‐demography in a marine clonal plant along an eutrophication gradient
Authors: Oliva Silvia , Romero Javier , Pérez Marta , Manent Pablo , Mascaró Oriol , Serrão Ester A. , Coelho Nelson , Alberto Filipe
Published: October 2014

Genetic diversity in clonal organisms includes two distinct components, (i) the diversity of genotypes or clones (i.e. genotypic richness) in a population and (ii) that of the alleles (i.e. allelic and gene diversity within populations, and differentiation between populations). We investigated how population differentiation and genotypic components are associated across a gradient of eutrophication in a clonal marine plant. To that end, we combined direct measurements of sexual allocation (i.e. flower and seed counts) and genotypic analyses, which are used as an estimator of effective sexual reproduction across multiple generations. Genetic differentiation across sites was also modelled according to a hypothesis here defined as isolation‐by‐demography, in which we use population‐specific factors, genotypic richness and eutrophication that are hypothesized to affect the source‐sink dynamics and thus influence the genetic differentiation between a pair of populations. Eutrophic populations exhibited lower genotypic richness, in agreement with lower direct measurements of sexual allocation and contemporaneous gene flow. Genetic differentiation, while not explained by distance, was best predicted by genotypic richness and habitat quality. A multiple regression model using these two predictors was considered the best model (R2 = 0.43). In this study, the relationship between environment and effective sexual–asexual balance is not simply (linearly) predicted by direct measurements of sexual allocation. Our results indicate that population‐specific factors and the isolation‐by‐demography model should be used more often to understand genetic differentiation.
Six new species and some nomenclatural changes in neotropical Lycopodiaceae
Authors: Øllgaard Benjamin
Published: October 2014

Palhinhaea divaricata B. Øllg., Palhinhaea lugubris B. Øllg., Palhinhaea pseudocurvata B. Øllg., Palhinhaea reflexifolia B. Øllg., Phlegmariurus ciliatospiculatus B. Øllg. and Phlegmariurus luteynii B. Øllg. are described as new to science. Diphasium lawessonianum (B. Øllg.) B. Øllg. is a new combination, based on Lycopodium lawessonianum B. Øllg. Three subfamilies of the Lycopodiaceae: Huperzioideae, Lycopodielloideae and Lycopodioideae, first used by Wagner and Beitel (1992), are validated.
Clinical evaluation of dental treatment needs in chronic renal insufficiency patients
Authors: Fregoneze Andréa Paula , Ortega Adriana de Oliveira Lira , Brancher João Armando , Vargas Evelise Tissori , Braga Izabelle Kerich , Gemelli Sara , de Paula Ataide Ana Flávia Gonçalves , Ignácio Sérgio Aparecido , Bönecker Marcelo José Strazzeri
Published: October 2014

Objective

To evaluate the need for dental treatment in chronic renal insufficiency (CRI) patients undergoing hemodialysis.

Design

Transversal study and case control.

Setting

CRI patients were examined at the Pequeno Príncipe Hospital in Curitiba, Brazil. The control group was examined at Nossa Senhora da Conceição Health Clinic in Campo Magro, Brazil.

Subjects (Materials) and Methods

Thirty‐four CRI patients were undergoing hemodialysis. The control group consisted of 34 normoreactive individuals paired by gender and age.

Interventions

The clinical examination was performed under an artificial light, using an oral mirror, an exploratory probe, a periodontal probe, and a tongue depressor.

Main outcome measures

This study adopted the methodology proposed by the World Health Organization (WHO).

Results

The CRI patient group needs periodontal and orthodontic treatment. The control group needs restorative treatments, prostheses, as well as surgical and endodontic treatment.

Conclusion

The profile of dental treatment needs proved to be distinct among the studied groups.
In vitro evaluation of the quality of blood products collected and stored in systems completely free of di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate–plasticized materials
Authors: Lagerberg Johan W. , Gouwerok Eric , Vlaar Richard , Go Mya , de Korte Dirk
Published: October 2014

Background

The plasticizer di(2‐ethylhexyl)phthalate (DEHP) is a common component in blood bags. DEHP is noncovalently bound to polyvinylchloride (PVC) polymer and can leach into the blood product. There are public concerns that exposure to DEHP might induce developmental and reproductive toxicity in humans. The aim of this study was to evaluate an alternative plasticizer, di(isononyl) cyclohexane‐1,2‐dicarboxylate (Hexamoll DINCH, BASF SE), for its use in blood bags.

Study Design and Methods

Whole blood (WB) was collected into DEHP‐containing and DEHP‐free collection systems. After overnight hold, WB was centrifuged and separated in plasma, buffy coat, and red blood cells (RBCs). Buffy coats and plasma were used to make platelet (PLT) concentrates in DEHP‐free systems. After addition of additive solution (AS), SAG‐M, PAGGS‐M, AS‐3, or PAGGG‐M, RBCs were leukoreduced and analyzed for in vitro characteristics and plasticizer levels during storage.

Results

The use of DINCH‐based systems had no effect on WB composition, blood processing, and plasma quality. PLT in vitro quality variables were maintained during storage in DEHP‐free systems. During storage in SAG‐M, hemolysis was significantly higher in DINCH‐PVC while potassium leakage and adenosine triphosphate content were comparable. During storage in alternative ASs, hemolysis was reduced compared to storage in SAG‐M.

Conclusions

The complete absence of DEHP in the collection system had no effect on WB composition, processing, or plasma and PLT quality. During storage in SAG‐M, the absence of DEHP resulted in increased hemolysis. With alternative ASs like PAGGS‐M, AS‐3, or PAGGG‐M, the absence of DEHP had no effect on hemolysis. Leakage of DINCH into the blood product was less pronounced than that of DEHP.
Effect of umbilical cord blood prefreeze variables on postthaw viability
Authors: Pope Belinda , Hokin Bevan , Grant Ross
Published: October 2014

Background

Assessment of the overall postthaw (PT) viability of an umbilical cord blood (UCB) unit is an important criterion for determining the quality of the unit for transplantation. Overall PT viability is a measure of cellular damage that can occur to the UCB during collection, storage, processing, freezing, and thawing.

Study Design and Methods

This study investigated factors measured before freezing of the UCB that could affect overall PT viability of the stem cell unit from 257 collected cord blood samples. The analysis included hematologic variables, cord blood collection characteristics, and stem cell separation and preservation factors.

Results

Each of the variables, postprocess (PP) neutrophils (%), PP hematocrit, overall PP viability (%), freeze rate (°C/min), and time from collection to freezing (hr) were shown to contribute to overall PT viability. Each UCB sample was given a calculated “viability prediction” (VP) score based on the influence or impact of each of these variables. This score was compared to the measured PT viability. Variables with a low VP score had correspondingly low PT viability, indicating more overall damage to the cells. The results showed that the higher the VP score, the higher the PT viability.

Conclusion

These findings provide a framework for identifying those units that are most likely to have a high overall PT viability and hence an increased likelihood of successful engraftment of the CB‐sourced stem cells. The VP score could aid in the selection of a donor cord blood unit for transplantation.
Isolation and purification of growth‐inhibitors from Vietnamese rice cultivars
Authors: Thi Ho Le , Lin Chung‐Ho , Smeda Reid J. , Fritschi Felix B.
Published: October 2014

Bioactive compounds that are produced by select rice cultivars have the potential to control barnyardgrass, a major rice yield‐limiting factor. In this study, the Vietnamese rice cultivars, OM 3536, OM 4498 and OM 5930, were selected and their inhibitory activity on cress, lettuce, canola and barnyardgrass was evaluated by using donor–receiver bioassays. These bioassays revealed that OM 3536 and OM 5930 exerted the greatest inhibitory activity, with an average growth inhibition of 57.2% on the roots and shoots of barnyardgrass. A bioassay‐guided approach was used to identify the allelopathic fractions from OM 5930 and was coupled with reverse‐phase chromatography in order to isolate several growth‐inhibitory fractions. The effective dose of the aqueous methanol extract of the rice plants that was required for 50% inhibition (ID50) of the shoot and root growth of the four test plant species, as determined by a logistic regression analysis, averaged 0.091 and 0.062 g mL−1 for OM 5930 and 0.112 and 0.072 g mL−1 for OM 3536, respectively. The ID50 of the barnyardgrass roots and shoots in the assays, as determined by a logistic regression analysis, was 0.044 and 0.149 g mL−1 for OM 3536 and 0.052 and 0.114 g mL−1 for OM 5930, respectively. A growth‐inhibitory fraction in the aqueous methanol extract of OM 5930 was isolated and the inhibitory activity on lettuce seedlings was determined. At a concentration of 100 p.p.m., this growth‐inhibitor inhibited lettuce root growth by up to 80.2%, compared to the control plants. These findings demonstrate that the dried plant tissues of Vietnamese rice cultivars could contain bioactive compounds that strongly inhibit plant growth.