bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thiol‐blocking electrophiles interfere with labeling and detection of protein sulfenic acids
Authors: Reisz Julie A. , Bechtold Erika , King S. Bruce , Poole Leslie B. , Furdui Cristina M.
Published: October 2013

Cellular exposure to reactive oxygen species induces rapid oxidation of DNA, proteins, lipids and other biomolecules. At the proteome level, cysteine thiol oxidation is a prominent post‐translational process that is implicated in normal physiology and numerous pathologies. Methods for investigating protein oxidation include direct labeling with selective chemical probes and indirect tag‐switch techniques. Common to both approaches is chemical blocking of free thiols using reactive electrophiles to prevent post‐lysis oxidation or other thiol‐mediated cross‐reactions. These reagents are used in large excess, and their reactivity with cysteine sulfenic acid, a critical oxoform in numerous proteins, has not been investigated. Here we report the reactivity of three thiol‐blocking electrophiles, iodoacetamide, N‐ethylmaleimide and methyl methanethiosulfonate, with protein sulfenic acid and dimedone, the structural core of many sulfenic acid probes. We demonstrate that covalent cysteine ‐SOR (product) species are partially or fully susceptible to reduction by dithiothreitol, tris(2‐carboxyethyl)phosphine and ascorbate, regenerating protein thiols, or, in the case of ascorbate, more highly oxidized species. The implications of this reactivity on detection methods for protein sulfenic acids and S‐nitrosothiols are discussed.
Short Sales and Option Listing Decisions
Authors: Blau Benjamin M. , Brough Tyler J.
Published: October 2013

We find that stocks with higher levels of prelisting short activity have a greater probability of option listing. These results are driven by the prelisting short activity of market makers, which suggests that exchanges believe that stocks with greater short selling will provide option market makers a better opportunity to hedge with short sales in the spot market. We also confirm that after options are listed, stocks with more prelisting short activity have more option trading activity. These results indicate that option exchanges strategically list options for stocks they believe with generate high trading volume thereby maximizing the profits of exchange members.
Movements, behavior, and habitat utilization of yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) in waters surrounding the Revillagigedo Islands Archipelago Biosphere Reserve, Mexico
Authors: Schaefer Kurt M. , Fuller Daniel W. , Aldana Gabriel
Published: October 2013

The movements, behavior, and habitat utilization of yellowfin tuna, Thunnus albacares, following capture and release with archival tags in the Revillagigedo Islands Archipelago Biosphere Reserve (RIABR), Mexico, are described from analyses of 16 578 days of time‐series data, downloaded from 52 archival tags recovered from yellowfin (78–173 cm in length and 1.7–8.0 yr of age) at liberty from 93 to 1773 days ( = 411 days), collected during 2006–2012. An unscented Kalman filter model with sea‐surface temperature measurements integrated (UKFsst) was used to process the archival tag data sets to obtain improved estimates of geographic positions, most probable tracks (MPTs), and movement parameters. The MPTs indicate restricted movements, low levels of dispersion, and fidelity of yellowfin tuna to the RIABR. The median parameter estimates from the UKFsst model for errors in longitude (σx) and latitude (σy) were 0.46° and 1.84°, respectively, for directed movements (u and v) –0.05 NM day−1 and –0.05 NM day−1, respectively, and for dispersive movement (D) 117.99 NM2 day−1. Analyses of daily timed depth and temperature records resulted in the classification of the data into four distinct behaviors. There are significant differences among ages in the durations of Type I and Type II diving behaviors and in the daytime and nighttime vertical habitat utilization distributions. The oceanography surrounding the RIABR appears to have a profound influence on the movements, behavior, and habitat utilization of yellowfin in this area.
Norepinephrine transporter heterozygous knockout mice exhibit altered transport and behavior
Authors: Fentress H. M. , Klar R. , Krueger J. J. , Sabb T. , Redmon S. N. , Wallace N. M. , Shirey‐Rice J. K. , Hahn M. K.
Published: October 2013

The norepinephrine (NE) transporter (NET) regulates synaptic NE availability for noradrenergic signaling in the brain and sympathetic nervous system. Although genetic variation leading to a loss of NET expression has been implicated in psychiatric and cardiovascular disorders, complete NET deficiency has not been found in people, limiting the utility of NET knockout mice as a model for genetically driven NET dysfunction. Here, we investigate NET expression in NET heterozygous knockout male mice (NET+/−), demonstrating that they display an approximately 50% reduction in NET protein levels. Surprisingly, these mice display no significant deficit in NET activity assessed in hippocampal and cortical synaptosomes. We found that this compensation in NET activity was due to enhanced activity of surface‐resident transporters, as opposed to surface recruitment of NET protein or compensation through other transport mechanisms, including serotonin, dopamine or organic cation transporters. We hypothesize that loss of NET protein in the NET+/− mouse establishes an activated state of existing surface NET proteins. The NET+/− mice exhibit increased anxiety in the open field and light–dark box and display deficits in reversal learning in the Morris water maze. These data suggest that recovery of near basal activity in NET+/− mice appears to be insufficient to limit anxiety responses or support cognitive performance that might involve noradrenergic neurotransmission. The NET+/− mice represent a unique model to study the loss and resultant compensatory changes in NET that may be relevant to behavior and physiology in human NET deficiency disorders.
Fluid inclusions at different depths in theSanshandao gold deposit,JiaodongPeninsula,China
Authors: Hu F. F. , Fan H. R. , Jiang X. H. , Li X. C. , Yang K. F. , Mernagh T.
Published: October 2013

TheSanshandao gold deposit, located at northwestern edge of theJiaodongPeninsula, easternNorthChinaCraton, is one of the largest gold deposits in theJiaodong gold province. In the deposit, disseminated‐ and stockwork‐style ores are hosted inMesozoic granitoids. Mineralization and alteration are largely controlled by the regionalSanshandao–Cangshang fault. Sericite separated from alteration rocks in the mineralized zone yields an Rb–Sr isochron age of 117.6 ± 3.0 Ma. The ore‐forming fluids in theSanshandao gold deposit contain CO2‐H2O‐NaCl±CH4with low to intermediate temperatures and low salinities. Microthermometric analysis shows that homogenization temperatures gradually decrease from the early mineralizing stage (258–416°C) to main mineralizing stage (180–321°C) and to late mineralizing stage (112–231°C). Homogenization temperatures from the same mineralizing stage are nearly same and do not show an increase with depth. The nature of the ore‐forming fluids remains nearly the same over a 2000 m vertical depth interval.
Amylose‐lipid complex formation during extrusion cooking: effect of added lipid type and amylose level on corn‐based puffed snacks
Authors: Thachil Madonna T. , Chouksey Mithlesh K. , Gudipati Venkateshwarlu
Published: October 2013

The effect of amylose‐lipid complex formation during extrusion was studied with respect to expansion characteristics and oxidative stability of the extrudates. Full factorial design was adopted to investigate the effects of variables, amylose (two levels, 25% and 45%), types of lipid (coconut oil, fish oil and MaxEPA) and levels of lipid (1.5% and 3%), on amylose‐lipid complex formation, expansion ratio, crispness, hardness and oxidative stability. Increased amylose content in feed mixture produced crispy extrudates with significantly higher (P < 0.05) amylose‐lipid complex formation, greater radial expansion, lower hardness and higher oxidative stability. Amylose‐lipid complex formation and its complimentary effect, that is, oxidative stability were significantly higher in extrudates incorporated with coconut oil compared to those with fish oil or MaxEPA. However, better physical properties viz. radial expansion, crispness and lesser hardness were displayed by extrudates added with MaxEPA followed by those with fish oil. Between these two, fish oil‐incorporated extrudates exhibited significantly higher oxidative stability compared to MaxEPA incorporated products. Thus, the study demonstrates the usefulness of amylose rich corn flour to make oxidatively stable fish oil‐incorporated extrudates with better expansion characteristics.
A novel HLA‐DRB1 allele, HLA‐DRB1*13:116, identified by sequencing‐based typing in a member of the Czech national marrow donor registry
Authors: Mrazek F. , Onderkova J. , Ambruzova Z. , Zachova S. , Petrek M.
Published: October 2013

We describe the identification of a novel HLA‐DRB1 allele, DRB1*13:116, in a member of the Czech National Marrow Donor Registry. The novel allele differs from the known DRB1*13:17 variant by a nucleotide exchange at position 227 (T/A) of the coding HLA‐DRB1 sequence, which causes an amino acid substitution (Phe47Tyr) in the HLA‐DR beta 1 chain.
Ableism and economic rationalism in Australian immigration
Authors: Yu Nilan G.
Published: October 2013

This article is an analysis of the current immigration policy in Australia from the perspective of critical social work. The analysis is based on the outcomes of the immigration applications of three families of children with disabilities. It is argued that, as seen in the experience of the three families, Australian immigration policy is markedly underpinned by ableism and economic rationalism, rendering the assessment process to determine immigration eligibility patently discriminatory against people with disabilities and their families. Such discriminatory practice is seen as a challenge for social work practice.
Trainees' perceived knowledge gain unrelated to the training domain: the joint action of impression management and motives
Authors: Chiaburu Dan S. , Huang Jason L. , Hutchins Holly M. , Gardner Richard G.
Published: October 2013

Trainees' knowledge gains represent an important outcome in human resource development. In this research, we tested a model examining the joint influence of social desirability (impression management, self‐deception) and motives (need for power, need for approval) on trainees' self‐reported knowledge gain. We conducted a study with respondents who reported information related to individual differences and took a training program and reported their knowledge gain in domains that were both related and unrelated to the training program. Trainee unrelated knowledge gain was a function of the joint influence of individual predispositions (to impression manage or engage in self‐deception) and motives (need for power, approval). Our findings suggest that impression management and self‐deception are insufficient to influence respondents' reports of unrelated knowledge but do yield predictable patterns when examined with respondents' motives. We discuss these results and implications for human resource development research and practice.
Heterosubtypic cross‐protection induced by whole inactivated influenza virus vaccine in mice: influence of the route of vaccine administration
Authors: Budimir Natalija , de Haan Aalzen , Meijerhof Tjarko , Gostick Emma , Price David A. , Huckriede Anke , Wilschut Jan
Published: October 2013

Background

Development of influenza vaccines capable of inducing broad protection against different virus subtypes is necessary given the ever‐changing viral genetic landscape. Previously, we showed that vaccination with whole inactivated virus (WIV) induces heterosubtypic protection against lethal virus infection in mice. Whole inactivated virus‐induced cross‐protection was found to be mediated primarily by flu‐specific CD8+ T cells.

Objectives

As it has been demonstrated that the route of vaccine administration strongly influences both the quantity and quality of vaccine‐induced immunity, in this study, we determined which route of WIV administration induces optimal heterosubtypic cross‐protection.

Methods

We compared the magnitude of the immune response and heterosubtypic protection against lethal A/PR/8/34 (H1N1) infection after subcutaneous (SC), intramuscular (IM), and intranasal (IN) vaccination with A/NIBRG‐14 (H5N1) WIV.

Results

Subcutaneous and IM administration was superior to IN administration of influenza WIV in terms of flu‐specific CD8+ T‐cell induction and protection of mice against lethal heterosubtypic challenge. Surprisingly, despite the very low flu‐specific CD8+ T‐cell responses detected in IN‐vaccinated mice, these animals were partially protected, most likely due to cross‐reactive IgA antibodies.

Conclusion

The results of this study show that the magnitude of WIV‐induced flu‐specific CD8+ T‐cell activity depends on the applied vaccination route. We conclude that parenteral administration of WIV vaccine, in particular IM injection, is superior to IN vaccine delivery for the induction of heterosubtypic cross‐protection and generally appears to elicit stronger immune responses than mucosal vaccination with WIV.
Turbellarian assemblages in freshwater lagoons in southern Brazil
Authors: Braccini João Alberto Leão , Leal‐Zanchet Ana Maria
Published: October 2013

Turbellarians, which typically feed on bacteria, algae, rotifers, oligochaetes, dipteran larvae, microcrustaceans, and other organisms, are abundant in diverse types of wetlands. Despite their importance, abundance, and species richness in freshwater environments, turbellarians are seldom considered in studies on biodiversity. We analyzed the structure of turbellarian communities in shore areas of three categories of permanent wetlands classified according to their perimeter as small, intermediate, and large during an annual cycle. In total, 1847 turbellarians were collected representing 42 species and 15 genera, from the orders Catenulida, Macrostomida, Lecithoepitheliata, Rhabdocoela, and Tricladida. Sixteen species were common to the three categories of wetlands, whereas nineteen species were unique to a particular category. Species composition varied among wetlands of different sizes; small, intermediate, and large wetlands had different dominant species. We found seasonal differences in community composition over the year, but no significant differences in mean values of observed species richness among wetlands with different sizes and among seasonal samples. The estimated species richness was, however, higher in the small wetlands, followed by the large and intermediate wetlands. In the summer, abundance was significantly lower in the small water bodies than in the intermediate and large bodies of water. Our results reinforce the need for conservation of wetlands of different sizes.
A novel iron transporter in Streptococcus iniae
Authors: Wang J , Zou L L , Li A X
Published: October 2013

Streptococcus iniae is a major pathogen that results in considerable economic loss to fish farms. Restricted availability of iron is a huge obstacle to survival for pathogenic bacteria during infection, and iron acquisition is important in bacterial virulence. In this study, S. iniae HD‐1 was shown not to produce siderophores (low‐molecular‐weight compounds) but rather to require iron‐containing proteins for growth under iron‐restricted conditions. The adenosine triphosphate (ATP)‐binding‐cassette (ABC) transporter system (ftsABCD), which is cotranscribed by four downstream genes, namely, ftsA, ftsB, ftsC and ftsD, was identified as responsible for haem utilization of S. iniae. Analysis of the corresponding recombinant protein, FtsB, indicated that it is a putative lipoprotein which plays a role in haem utilization and is produced in vivo during infection with S. iniae HD‐1, and therefore may be a potential candidate antigen for a streptococcal vaccine.
Eriocaulon gopalakrishnanum sp. nov. (Eriocaulaceae) from the Western Ghats, India
Authors: Rashmi K. , Krishnakumar G.
Published: October 2013

Eriocaulon gopalakrishnanum K. Rashmi & G. Krishnakumar sp. nov. is described and illustrated from the low altitude monsoon vegetation in the coastal lateritic plateau of the Western Ghat region of Kerala, India. The new species is distinct in the leaves and spathe being papillose, a character not displayed by any other species from this region.
Obstructive sleep apnoea in obese adolescents and cardiometabolic risk markers
Authors: Watson S. E. , Li Z. , Tu W. , Jalou H. , Brubaker J. L. , Gupta S. , Huber J. N. , Carroll A. , Hannon T. S.
Published: October 2013

What is already known about this subject

In paediatric patients, obstructive sleep apnoea is associated with adiposity, especially visceral adiposity.

In adults, obstructive sleep apnoea is also associated with a higher prevalence of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

There are limited and conflicting paediatric studies examining the association between obstructive sleep apnoea and biomarkers of risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes in youth.

What this study adds

Obstructive sleep apnoea is linked with greater cardiometabolic risk markers in obese adolescents.

Fasting insulin and homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance may be especially linked with obstructive sleep apnoea among obese male Hispanic adolescents.

The relationship between obstructive sleep apnoea and cardiometabolic abnormalities in obese adolescents should be considered when evaluating patients found to have obstructive sleep apnoea.

Background

Paediatric studies examining the association between obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and insulin sensitivity/cardiometabolic risk are limited and conflicting.

Objective

This study aims to determine if cardiometabolic risk markers are increased among obese youth with obstructive sleep apnoea as compared with their equally obese peers without OSA.

Methods

We performed a retrospective analysis of 96 patients (age 14.2 ± 1.4 years) who underwent polysomnography for suspected OSA. Fasting lipids, glucose, insulin and haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) were performed as part of routine clinical evaluation. Patients were categorized into two groups by degree of OSA as measured by the apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI): none or mild OSA (AHI < 5) and moderate or severe OSA (AHI ≥ 5).

Results

Despite the similar degrees of obesity, patients with moderate or severe OSA had higher fasting insulin (P = 0.037) and homeostasis model assessment‐insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR [P = 0.0497]) as compared with those with mild or no OSA. After controlling for body mass index, there was a positive association between the AHI and log HOMA‐IR (P = 0.005). There was a positive relationship between arousals plus awakenings during the polysomnography and fasting triglycerides.

Conclusions

OSA is linked with greater cardiometabolic risk markers in obese youth.
Using the Diffusion of Innovations theory to understand the uptake of genetics in nursing practice: identifying the characteristics of genetic nurse adopters
Authors: Andrews Verity , Tonkin Emma , Lancastle Deborah , Kirk Maggie
Published: October 2013

Aim

To identify the characteristics of nurses who are using genetics in practice and consider the implications of the findings for optimizing its wider uptake.

Background

Nurses are crucial in realizing the benefits from advances in genetic and genomic health care. Although many recognize genetics as an important component of disease, most feel unprepared to engage with it in practice. The Diffusion of Innovation theory provides a useful framework to describe different levels of engagement. Identifying the characteristics of nurses who have engaged with genetics (adopters) may provide insights of relevance to promoting wider adoption.

Design

A primarily quantitative approach over two phases, using online surveys conducted during 2011.

Method

In phase 1, consensus (>75%) was sought from experts in genetics and nursing on four potential Indicators of Genetic Adoption could identify nurses who have adopted genetics. In phase 2, oncology and primary care nurses were surveyed to identify the characteristics and demographic indicators of genetic nurse adopters.

Results

A consensus was achieved to include all Indicators of Genetic Adoption (phase 1). In phase 2, 27·3% of respondents (n = 24/88) were categorized as being adopters. Eighteen characteristics were determined to be statistically significant (Mann–Whitney) in defining an adopter and included being open to experience and being more knowledgeable of and confident in using genetics.

Conclusion

Nurses can be categorized in terms of their engagement with genetics through several distinguishing characteristics. Further research is needed to test the generalizability of the findings to a larger sample and other areas of nursing practice.
The importance of molecular dating analyses for inferring Hawaiian biogeographical history: a case study with bark lice (Psocidae: Ptycta)
Authors: Bess Emilie C. , Catanach Therese A. , Johnson Kevin P.
Published: October 2013

Aim

The use of intuitive or explicit biogeographical reconstruction techniques to estimate the timing of species radiations on the Hawaiian Islands, while often incorporating evidence on the timing of island formation, may be misleading if the effects of extinction are overlooked. Using phylogenies of the bark louse genus Ptycta (Psocidae), we compared results from biogeographical character mapping with those from molecular dating analyses. These results were used to evaluate the ‘progression model’, which predicts an oldest‐to‐youngest pattern of island colonization.

Location

The main Hawaiian Islands (Kauai, Oahu, Maui, Lanai, Molokai and Hawaii).

Methods

With a data set including 101 Hawaiian Ptycta specimens and 18 outgroup species, we constructed molecular phylogenies based on sequences of the nuclear gene wingless and mitochondrial genes 12S, 16S and cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI). Maximum‐likelihood, maximum‐parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic analyses were used. We used beast to estimate a time‐calibrated tree under a relaxed clock model.

Results

Our analyses suggested a single colonization event, followed by extensive movement of Ptycta among islands and species radiations within and between islands. This monophyletic radiation is composed of two well‐supported clades that are also supported by two synapomorphic characters of the male genitalia.

Main conclusions

Very different biogeographical patterns are inferred by molecular dating versus approaches based on character mapping. Simple biogeographical reconstruction over the molecular phylogeny supports a pattern of youngest‐to‐oldest island colonization, the reverse of that predicted by the ‘progression model’, and implies that this radiation could be as young as the most recent islands of Maui (1.4 Ma) or Hawaii (0.5 Ma). Molecular dating, however, infers a pattern consistent with oldest‐to‐youngest island colonization, and suggests a lineage age of 7.1 Ma. Extinction on the oldest island of Kauai may account for the differences in results between the two analyses.
An evaluation of the robustness of global amphibian range maps
Authors: Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Rondinini Carlo , Bonardi Anna , Katariya Vineet , Padoa‐Schioppa Emilio , Angulo Ariadne
Published: October 2013

Aim

Maps of species ranges are among the most frequently used distribution data in biodiversity studies. As with any biological data, range maps have some level of measurement error, but this error is rarely quantified. We assessed the error associated with amphibian range maps by comparing them with point locality data.

Location

Global.

Methods

The maps published by the Global Amphibian Assessment were assessed against two data sets of species point localities: the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF), and a refined data set including recently published, high‐quality presence data from bothGBIFand other sources. Range fit was measured as the proportion of presence records falling within the range polygon(s) for each species.

Results

Using the high‐quality point data provided better fit measures than using the rawGBIFdata. Range fit was highly variable among continents, being highest for North American and European species (a fit of 84–94%), and lowest for Asian and South American species (a fit of 57–64%). At the global scale, 95% of amphibian point records were inside the ranges published in maps, or within 31 km of the range edge. However, differences among continents were striking, and more points were found far from range edges for South American and Asian species.

Main conclusions

The Global Amphibian Assessment range maps represent the known distribution of most amphibians well; this study provides measures of accuracy that can be useful for future research using amphibian maps as baseline data. Nevertheless, there is a need for greater investment in the continuous updating and improvement of maps, particularly in the megadiverse areas of tropical Asia and South America.
Maintaining Goal Blood Pressures After Switching From Olmesartan to Other Angiotensin Receptor Blockers
Authors: Saseen Joseph J. , Ghushchyan Vahram , Kaila Shuchita , Allen Richard R. , Nair Kavita V.
Published: October 2013

This study assessed blood pressure (BP) goal maintenance in patients controlled with olmesartan monotherapy after switching to another angiotensin type II receptor blocker (ARB). Hypertensive patients prescribed olmesartan monotherapy were identified from GE Healthcare's Centricity electronic medical record between 2007 and 2011. After documentation of BP goal (<140/90 mm Hg) attainment, patients were placed into the continuation cohort if olmesartan monotherapy was maintained or into the switch cohort if they were changed to irbesartan, losartan, or valsartan. Follow‐up assessments were the first BP measurement 28 to 390 days after attaining BP goal (continuation cohort) or after prescribing an alternative ARB (switch cohort). Of 3412 patients included (3027 continuation cohort, 385 switch cohort), 52% were women and mean age was 58.0 years. In the switch cohort, 310 (80.5%) were switched to losartan (n=236), irbesartan (n=58), or valsartan (n=16) monotherapy and 75 (19.5%) were switched to combination antihypertensive therapy. Mean baseline and follow‐up BP were 122.5/75.8 mm Hg and 126.6/77.6 mm Hg, respectively, in the continuation cohort (P<.001) and 123.5/75.4 mm Hg and 129.6/78.5 mm Hg, respectively, in the switch cohort (P<.001). BP goal maintenance was 78.7% and 72.2% in the continuation and switch cohort, respectively (odds ratio, 0.707; 95% confidence interval, 0.555–0.899). Patients who continued on olmesartan monotherapy after attaining BP goal had a higher percentage of BP goal maintenance than patients who switched therapy.
β‐Blockers and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Inappropriate Avoidance?
Authors: Minor Deborah S. , Meyer Allison M. , Long R. C. , Butler Kenneth R.
Published: October 2013

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death in the United States and is often accompanied by one or more comorbid conditions. While there are established morbidity and mortality benefits of β‐blocker (BB) use for certain cardiovascular conditions, data suggest that clinicians are often reluctant to prescribe them in the presence of COPD because of concerns for bronchoconstriction, despite evidence that they are typically well‐tolerated among these patients. Treatment guidelines for COPD are consistent with those for cardiovascular disease management and support the role of BBs in management of particular cardiovascular conditions, even in the presence of severe COPD. Adherence to these guidelines could result in significant decreases in morbidity and mortality among patients with COPD. Additionally, current treatments for COPD are often linked to increased cardiovascular disease events. Further study is needed to clarify and guide therapeutic management in patients with COPD.
Inter‐bacterial correlations in subgingival biofilms: a large‐scale survey
Authors: Loozen Gitte , Ozcelik Onur , Boon Nico , De Mol Antony , Schoen Christian , Quirynen Marc , Teughels Wim
Published: October 2013

Aim

Although the complexity of the oral ecology and the ecological differences between health and disease are well accepted, a clear view on the dynamics in relation to disease is lacking. In this study, the prevalence and abundance of 20 key oral bacteria was assessed in health and disease and more importantly a closer look was given to the inter‐bacterial relationships.

Materials and methods

A blinded microbiological database was analysed in this cross‐sectional, retrospective study. The database was constructed based on microbiological analyses of samples from 6308 patients, with gradations of periodontitis (healthy to periodontitis). Data concerning the abundance of 20 oral bacteria and probing pocket depth were provided.

Results

Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, Treponema denticola, Eubacterium nodatum, Porphyromonas micra and Porphyromonas intermedia showed a clear increase in abundance and prevalence with increasing pocket depth. Correlation matrices illustrated that almost all microorganisms were in one way correlated to other species and most of these correlations were significant. Several beneficial bacteria showed strong correlations with other beneficial bacteria.

Conclusion

Knowledge on bacterial correlations can pave the way for new treatment options focusing on restoring the shifted balance.
Context matters: community characteristics and mental health among war‐affected youth in Sierra Leone
Authors: Betancourt Theresa S. , McBain Ryan , Newnham Elizabeth A. , Brennan Robert T.
Published: October 2013

Background

Worldwide, over one billion children and adolescents live in war‐affected settings. At present, only limited research has investigated linkages between disrupted social ecology and adverse mental health outcomes among war‐affected youth. In this study, we examine three community‐level characteristics – social disorder and collective efficacy within the community, as reported by caregivers, and perceived stigma as reported by youth – in relation to externalizing behaviors and internalizing symptoms among male and female former child soldiers in postconflict Sierra Leone.

Methods

A total of 243 former child soldiers (30% female, mean age at baseline: 16.6 years) and their primary caregivers participated in interviews in 2004 and 2008, as part of a larger prospective cohort study of war‐affected youth in Sierra Leone. Two‐point growth models were estimated to examine the relationship between community‐level characteristics and externalizing and internalizing outcomes across the time points.

Results

Both social disorder within the community, reported by caregivers, and perceived stigma, reported by youth, positively covaried with youths' externalizing and internalizing scores – indicating that higher levels of each at baseline and follow‐up were associated with higher levels of mental health problems at both time points (p < .05). The relationship between collective efficacy and mental health outcomes was nonsignificant (p > .05).

Conclusions

This study offers a rare glimpse into the role that the postconflict social context plays in shaping the mental health among former child soldiers. Results indicate that both social disorder and perceived stigma within the community demonstrate an important relationship to externalizing and internalizing problems among adolescent ex‐combatants. Moreover, these relationships persisted over a 4‐year period of follow‐up. These results underscore the importance of the postconflict social environment and the need to develop postconflict interventions that address community‐level processes in addition to the needs of families and individuals.
Mothers' prenatal stress and their children's antisocial outcomes – a moderating role for the Dopamine D4 Receptor (DRD4) gene
Authors: Zohsel Katrin , Buchmann Arlette F. , Blomeyer Dorothea , Hohm Erika , Schmidt Martin H. , Esser Günter , Brandeis Daniel , Banaschewski Tobias , Laucht Manfred
Published: October 2013

Background

Maternal distress during pregnancy has been linked to aggressive behavior in offspring. This effect has been interpreted in terms of ‘fetal programming’. The 7‐repeat (7r) allele of a VNTR polymorphism in exon III of the human dopamine receptor D4 (DRD4) has consistently been associated with externalizing behavior problems, especially in the presence of adverse environmental factors. So far, it is not known whether the DRD4 genotype moderates the effect of prenatal maternal stress on the development of childhood antisocial behavior.

Methods

As part of an ongoing epidemiological cohort study, prenatal maternal stress was assessed using self‐report 3 months following child birth. When children were 8, 11, and 15 years old, mothers rated their children's externalizing behavior, and diagnoses of conduct disorder and/or oppositional defiant disorder (CD/ODD) according to DSM‐IV were obtained. In a sample of N = 308 participants, the effects of the DRD4 genotype, prenatal maternal stress, and the interaction thereof on antisocial outcome were tested.

Results

Under conditions of elevated prenatal maternal stress, children carrying one or two DRD4 7r alleles were at increased risk of a diagnosis of CD/ODD. Moreover, homozygous carriers of the DRD4 7r allele displayed more externalizing behavior following exposure to higher levels of prenatal maternal stress, while homozygous carriers of the DRD4 4r allele turned out to be insensitive to the effects of prenatal stress.

Conclusions

This study is the first to report a gene–environment interaction related to DRD4 and prenatal maternal stress using data from a prospective study, which extends earlier findings on the impact of prenatal maternal stress with respect to childhood antisocial behavior.
Surgical Treatment Options for Grafting Areas of Gingival Recession Association with Cervical Lesions: A Review
Authors: Bignozzi Isabella , Littarru Cristiano , Crea Alessandro , Vittorini Orgeas Gianluca , Landi Luca
Published: October 2013

Statement of the Problem

Gingival recession (GR) is a highly prevalent dental problem that may be associated with dentin hypersensitivity and aesthetic complaint. Furthermore, GR is often complicated by dental cervical wear of substance, such as erosion, abrasion, or abfraction lesions, as well as initial or more extensive carious involvement of the cervical area, which worsen the symptoms and make the treatment of this periodontal condition more challenging.

The Purpose of the Study

To provide an overview of surgical treatment options presented in the literature for sites affected by GR with carious cervical lesions (CCLs) or non‐carious cervical lesions (NCCLs).

Methods

The Medline database was searched for items dealing with GR and its treatment options, especially on GR associated with CCLs or NCCLs.

Results

Several periodontal surgical techniques have shown good potential for treating GR over the years. Specifically, considering GR associated with CCL or NCCL, an assessment of both hard (dental) and soft (gingival) tissue characteristics of the involved site is recommended in selecting the surgical procedure.

Conclusions

For GR associated with CCL or NCCL, hard and soft tissue characteristics of the involved site have to be carefully evaluated in order to choose the most appropriate surgical procedure.

Clinical Significance

A structured decision‐making process, considering both hard and soft tissue characteristics of the involved site, is recommended in choosing the most appropriate surgical procedures to treat GR associated with CCL or NCCL defects. The restitutio ad integrum of the dento‐periodontal unit is an essential condition to restore the tooth to its original function and esthetics.
A novel function for proSAAS as an amyloid anti‐aggregant in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Hoshino Akina , Helwig Michael , Rezaei Sina , Berridge Casey , Eriksen Jason L. , Lindberg Iris
Published: October 2013

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) are characterized by an abnormal aggregation of misfolded beta‐sheet rich proteins such as β‐amyloid (Aβ). Various ubiquitously expressed molecular chaperones control the correct folding of cellular proteins and prevent the accumulation of harmful species. We here describe a novel anti‐aggregant chaperone function for the neuroendocrine protein proSAAS, an abundant secretory polypeptide that is widely expressed within neural and endocrine tissues and which has previously been associated with neurodegenerative disease in various proteomics studies. In the brains of 12‐month‐old APdE9 mice, and in the cortex of a human AD‐affected brain, proSAAS immunoreactivity was highly colocalized with amyloid pathology. Immunoreactive proSAAS co‐immunoprecipitated with Aβ immunoreactivity in lysates from APdE9 mouse brains. In vitro, proSAAS efficiently prevented the fibrillation of Aβ1–42 at molar ratios of 1 : 10, and this anti‐aggregation effect was dose dependent. Structure‐function studies showed that residues 97–180 were sufficient for the anti‐aggregation function against Aβ. Finally, inclusion of recombinant proSAAS in the medium of Neuro2a cells, as well as lentiviral‐mediated proSAAS over‐expression, blocked the neurocytotoxic effect of Aβ1–42 in Neuro2a cells. Taken together, our results suggest that proSAAS may play a role in Alzheimer's disease pathology.

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In this study, we describe a novel anti‐aggregant function for the neuroendocrine protein, proSAAS. We found that proSAAS co‐localizes with Aβ in Alzheimer's disease‐affected brains, and co‐immunoprecipitates with Aβ in brain extracts. In vitro, proSAAS efficiently prevents Aβ1–42 fibrillation, and also blocks Aβ1–42–mediated neurotoxicity. These results suggest that proSAAS may be a novel target for neurodegenerative disease therapy.
Three‐dimensional skeletal kinematics of the shoulder girdle and forelimb in walking Alligator
Authors: Baier David B. , Gatesy Stephen M.
Published: October 2013

Crocodylians occupy a key phylogenetic position for investigations of archosaur locomotor evolution. Compared to the well‐studied hindlimb, relatively little is known about the skeletal movements and mechanics of the forelimb. In this study, we employed manual markerless XROMM (X‐ray Reconstruction Of Moving Morphology) to measure detailed 3‐D kinematics of the shoulder girdle and forelimb bones of American alligators (Alligator mississippiensis) walking on a treadmill. Digital models of the interclavicle, scapulocoracoid, humerus, radius and ulna were created using a 3‐D laser scanner. Models were articulated and aligned to simultaneously recorded frames of fluoroscopic and standard light video to reconstruct and measure joint motion. Joint coordinate systems were established for the coracosternal, glenohumeral and elbow joints. Our analysis revealed that the limb joints only account for about half of fore/aft limb excursion; the remaining excursion results from shoulder girdle movements and lateral bending of the vertebral column. Considerable motion of each scapulocoracoid relative to the vertebral column is consistent with coracosternal mobility. The hemisellar design of the glenohumeral joint permits some additional translation, or sliding in the fore‐aft plane, but this movement does not have much of an effect on the distal excursion of the bone.
Evo Morales and the MST in Bolivia: Continuities and Discontinuities in Agrarian Reform
Authors: Brabazon Honor , Webber Jeffery R.
Published: October 2013

There is a widespread understanding in critical scholarly literature that the government of Evo Morales is fundamentally challenging the neoliberal order in Bolivia. The empirical record of Morales' first five years in office, however, illustrates significant neoliberal continuities in the country's political economy. At the same time, the most important social movements that resisted neoliberalism prior to Morales' election have been considerably demobilized in its wake. This gives rise to the critique that the Morales government has merely implemented a more politically stable version of the model of accumulation it inherited. This paper draws on recent field research in Bolivia to make a contribution to this broader research agenda on reconstituted neoliberalism. Our focus is twofold. On the one hand, the paper examines the continuities of agrarian class relations from the INRA law at the height of neoliberalism in 1996 to the various agrarian reform initiatives introduced since Morales assumed office in 2006. On the other hand, the paper traces the mobilization of the Bolivian Landless Peasants' Movement (MST) in response to the failure of the 1996 neoliberal agrarian reform, followed by the movement's demobilization after Morales' 2006 agrarian reform initiative. The paper explores this demobilization in the context of agrarian relations that have remained largely unchanged in the same period. Finally, the paper draws on recent reflections by MST members who, to varying degrees, seem to be growing critical of Morales' failure to fundamentally alter rural class relations, and the difficulties of remobilizing their movement at the present time.
Effect of a Health Belief Model‐based nursing intervention on Chinese patients with moderate to severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Wang Ying , Zang Xiao‐Ying , Bai Jinbing , Liu Su‐Yan , Zhao Yue , Zhang Qing
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To test the effect of a Health Belief Model‐based nursing intervention on healthcare outcomes in Chinese patients with moderate to severe COPD.

Background

The Health Belief Model (HBM) has been internationally validated in a variety of chronic conditions. However, nursing intervention based on the HBM is less explored in Chinese patients with COPD.

Design

A randomised controlled trial.

Methods

Enrolled patients were randomly assigned to the intervention and control groups. Patients in the intervention group received a 20‐ to 30‐minute HBM‐based nursing intervention every 2 days during the hospitalisation period after disease conditions were stable, with additional follow‐ups after discharge. Patients in the control group received routine nursing care.

Results

Patients had significantly increased scores of health belief and self‐efficacy after receiving the HBM‐based nursing intervention. After receiving the 3‐month follow‐up, patients in the intervention group had significantly higher mean total scores in the Health Belief Scale and the COPD Self‐Efficacy Scale, as well as in all the subscales, than those in the control group except the perceived disease seriousness. Results showed that the value of FEV1/FVC ratio had a significant difference between study groups before and after the intervention. Results also indicated that mean scores of the Dyspnea Scale, 6‐minute walking distance and ADL were significantly different between the groups and between the study time‐points.

Conclusions

Among patients with moderate to severe COPD, nursing intervention based on the HBM can enhance their health belief and self‐efficacy towards the disease management, decrease dyspnoea and improve exercise tolerance and ADL.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses can use the HBM‐based intervention to enhance patients' health belief and self‐efficacy towards the management of COPD, and subsequently benefit healthcare outcomes.
When Uncertainty Blows in the Orchard: Comovement and Equilibrium Volatility Risk Premia
Authors: BURASCHI ANDREA , TROJANI FABIO , VEDOLIN ANDREA
Published: October 2013

We provide novel evidence for an equilibrium link between investors' disagreement, the market price of volatility and correlation, and the differential pricing of index and individual equity options. We show that belief disagreement is positively related to (i) the wedge between index and individual volatility risk premia, (ii) the different slope of the smile of index and individual options, and (iii) the correlation risk premium. Priced disagreement risk also explains returns of option volatility and correlation trading strategies in a way that is robust to the inclusion of other risk factors and different market conditions.
Prognostic significance of thrombocytosis, platelet parameters and aggregation rates in epithelial ovarian cancer
Authors: Ma Xuegong , Wang Yingmei , Sheng Hongna , Tian Wenyan , Qi Zheng , Teng Fei , Xue Fengxia
Published: October 2013

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the impact of preoperative platelet counts, parameters and aggregation rates (maximal aggregation rate: MAR) on prognosis in patients with epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC).

Methods

Preoperative platelet count, parameters and MAR in 182 EOC patients, 122 patients with benign ovarian tumor and 150 healthy women were retrospectively analyzed. The correlation between thrombocytosis, platelet parameters, MAR and clinicopathological factors were evaluated in EOC.

Results

Forty‐five (24.73%) EOC patients had preoperative thrombocytosis in this study. The mean platelet count in the EOC group was significantly higher than that of benign and healthy groups (P < 0.001). The MAR in the EOC group was significantly higher than that in the healthy group (71.96% vs 57.03%, P = 0.025). The platelet parameters (mean platelet volume, platelet distribution width, thrombocytocrit and large platelet ratio) were consistently higher in the EOC group than those in the benign and healthy groups, but the differences were insignificant. A significant correlation between thrombocytosis and MAR was observed in EOC patients (r = 0.694, P < 0.001). EOC patients with thrombocytosis were found to have significantly higher grade (P = 0.048), more advanced stage (P = 0.045), higher level carbohydrate antigen‐125 (P = 0.007) and greater likelihood of suboptimal cytoreduction (P = 0.035). EOC patients with both thrombocytosis and high MAR were found to have shorter progression‐free survival (P = 0.001)and overall survival (P = 0.004). The combination of thrombocytosis and MAR, as well as stage and optimal cytoreduction, retained significance as an independent prognostic factor for overall survival.

Conclusion

Thrombocytosis, accompanied by increasing of platelet aggregation rates, is associated with more aggressive tumor biology in EOC. The combination of thrombocytosis and MAR is an independent negative prognostic factor for overall survival in EOC patients.
Maternal floor infarction: Management of an underrecognized pathology
Authors: Al‐Sahan Nada , Grynspan David , von Dadelszen Peter , Gruslin Andrée
Published: October 2013

Maternal floor infarction is a relatively rare condition characterized clinically by severe early onset fetal growth restriction with features of uteroplacental insufficiency. It has a very high recurrence rate and carries a significant risk or fetal demise. Pathological characteristics include massive and diffuse fibrin deposition along the decidua basalis and the perivillous space of the basal plate. We present a case of recurrent maternal floor infarction and propose diagnostic clues as well as potential therapeutic options.