bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Soil structural stability and erosion rates influenced by agricultural management practices in a semi‐arid Mediterranean agro‐ecosystem
Authors: García‐Orenes F. , Roldán A. , Mataix‐Solera J. , Cerdà A. , Campoy M. , Arcenegui V. , Caravaca F.
Published: September 2012

Unsuitable agricultural practices can cause loss in soil quality and erodibility to thus increase or trigger desertification under Mediterranean conditions. A field experiment was performed at the El Teularet‐Sierra de Enguera Experimental Station (eastern Spain) to assess the influence during a 5‐yr period of different agricultural practices on physical and chemical indicators of soil quality (total and water‐soluble carbohydrates, glomalin‐related soil proteins (GRSP), total organic carbon, aggregate stability (AS), vegetation cover and soil erosion). The management practices included residual herbicide use, ploughing, ploughing + oats, addition of oat straw mulch and a control (land abandonment). Adjacent soil under natural vegetation was used as a reference for local, high‐quality soil and as a control for comparison with the agricultural soils under different management practices. Oat straw mulching led to higher levels of water‐soluble carbohydrates, GRSP and AS and lower soil erosion rates, resulting in values similar to those in the soil under native vegetation. The lowest levels of carbohydrates and GRSP were for the plots that were treated with herbicide or were ploughed. The maintenance of and increases in stable aggregates promoted by the different agricultural management practices over the years were attributed to increases in labile organic fractions such as carbohydrates and to the GRSP content. The results demonstrate that land abandonment (control plot) or the use of a cover (plants or straw) contributes to increases in soil quality and reduces the risk of erosion. The research also shows that sustainable agricultural management allows soil to recover and that the use of straw mulching is the most effective management strategy.
An overview of fertilizer‐P recommendations in Europe: soil testing, calibration and fertilizer recommendations
Authors: Jordan‐Meille L. , Rubæk G. H. , Ehlert P. A. I. , Genot V. , Hofman G. , Goulding K. , Recknagel J. , Provolo G. , Barraclough P.
Published: September 2012

The procedure for applying phosphorus (P) fertilizer to soil can be divided into three consecutive steps: (i) Measurement of soil‐P availability, (ii) calibration of the soil‐P fertility level and (iii) estimation of the recommended P dose. Information on each of these steps was obtained for 18 European countries and regions with the aim of comparing P fertilizer recommendation systems at the European scale. We collected information on P fertilizer recommendations through conventional or grey literature, and personal contacts with researchers, laboratories and advisory services. We found much variation between countries for each of the three steps: There are more than 10 soil‐P tests currently in use, apparent contradictions in the interpretation of soil‐P test values and more than 3‐fold differences in the P fertilizer recommendations for similar soil‐crop situations. This last result was confirmed by conducting a simple experimental inter‐laboratory comparison. Moreover, soil properties (pH, clay content) and crop species characteristics (P responsiveness) are used in some countries in the calibration and recommendation steps, but in different ways. However, there are also common characteristics: soil‐P availability is determined in all countries by extraction with chemical reagents and the calibration of the soil‐P test values, and the fertilizer recommendations are based on the results from empirical field trials. Moreover, the fertilizer recommendations are nearly all based on the amount of P exported in the crops. As long as rational scientific and theoretical backgrounds are lacking, there is no point in trying to synchronize the different chemical methods used. We therefore call for a mechanistic approach in which the processes involved in plant P nutrition are truly reproduced by a single standard method or simulated by sorption‐desorption models.
Endometriosis and Infertility – a consensus statement from ACCEPT (Australasian CREI Consensus Expert Panel on Trial evidence)
Authors: Koch Juliette , Rowan Katrina , Rombauts Luk , Yazdani Anusch , Chapman Michael , Johnson Neil
Published: September 2012

Endometriosis is common in women with infertility but its management is controversial and varied. This article summarises the consensus developed by a group of Australasian subspecialists in reproductive endocrinology and infertility (the Australasian CREI Consensus Expert Panel on Trial evidence group) on the evidence concerning the management of endometriosis in infertility. Endometriosis impairs fertility by causing a local inflammatory state, inducing progesterone resistance, impairing oocyte release and reducing sperm and embryo transport. Medical treatments have a limited role, whereas surgical and assisted reproductive treatments improve pregnancy rates. The role of surgery for deep infiltrative endometriosis and repeat surgery requires further evaluation and there is insufficient evidence for the use of anti‐adhesives to improve fertility. Intrauterine insemination (IUI) and in vitro fertilisation (IVF) improve pregnancy rates but women with endometriosis have lower pregnancy rates than those with other causes of infertility. The decision about whether to operate or pursue assisted reproduction will depend on a variety of factors such as the patient's symptoms, the presence of complex masses on ultrasound, ovarian reserve and ovarian access for IVF, risk of surgery and cost. Some women with infertility and endometriosis may benefit from a combination of assisted reproduction and surgery.
Obstetric anal sphincter injury risk factors and the role of the mediolateral episiotomy
Authors: Twidale Emily , Cornell Kristin , Litzow Nicholas , Hotchin Anne
Published: September 2012

Aims

Investigate risk factors for obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) and their incidence between 2006 and 2010 at a regional teaching hospital in Australia. Determine whether a correlation exists between a decrease in OASI rates and an increase in mediolateral episiotomies.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective observational study conducted at the Geelong Hospital, Barwon Health, Victoria, Australia. Every adequately documented vaginal birth from 2006 to 2010 in the hospital was included (N = 7314, cases of OASI = 239). Patient data were obtained from the Barwon Health Birth Outcomes System database. Multinomial logistic regression, Pearson's correlation coefficient and relative risk calculations were used for analysis.

Results

Risk factors for OASI include nulliparity (OR 2.64, 95% CI 1.95–3.57, P < 0.01), instrumental delivery (OR 2.54, 95% CI 1.82–3.55, P < 0.01) and birth weight greater than 4 kg (OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.11–2.19, P = 0.01). There was a significant correlation between increasing mediolateral episiotomy use from 12.56% to 20.10% and a reduction in OASI rates over the 5‐year period (Pearson's correlation coefficient: −0.94, P = 0.02). The correlation remained when analysing normal vaginal births in isolation from instrumental (Pearson's correlation coefficient: −0.89, P = 0.04).

Conclusions

Clear risk factors for OASI include nulliparity, macrosomia and instrumental delivery. There was a significant correlation between increasing mediolateral episiotomy rates from 12.56% to 20.10% and decreasing OASI.
Reporting, Representation, and Subgroup Analysis of Race and Ethnicity in Published Clinical Trials of Atopic Dermatitis in the United States Between 2000 and 2009
Authors: Hirano Stefanie A. , Murray Susan B. , Harvey Valerie M.
Published: September 2012

Abstract:  To review the literature on atopic dermatitis (AD) clinical trials published in the United States between 2000 and 2009 to examine the representation of racial and ethnic minorities in those trials and determine the extent to which investigators reported on demographic variables and performed a subanalysis. A PubMed search was performed including all clinical trials for management of AD published between 2000 and 2009. Three reviewers analyzed articles matching the search criteria. Data recorded included incorporation of demographic data at baseline and in the analysis and result interpretations. Of 645 PubMed search results, only 78 articles originated in the United States and fit the search criteria; 59.5% of these included reports of race or ethnicity. Of the studies reporting race or ethnicity, the subject population mainly included 62.1% white, 18.0% black, 6.9% Asian, and 2.0% Hispanic. Despite increasing awareness in the United States of the importance of reporting demographic data in clinical trials, there has been no significant improvement in reporting in AD clinical trials over the past 10 years. When reporting occurs, the categorization of ethnicities, methods of reporting data, and incorporation of the data into the results are lacking or flawed. In addition, aside from blacks, U.S. minorities appear to be underrepresented in AD clinical trials.
Association of Piebaldism, Multiple Café‐au‐lait Macules, and Intertriginous Freckling: Clinical Evidence of a Common Pathway between KIT and Sprouty‐Related, Ena/Vasodilator‐Stimulated Phosphoprotein Homology‐1 Domain Containing Protein 1 (SPRED1)
Authors: Chiu Yvonne E. , Dugan Stefanie , Basel Donald , Siegel Dawn H.
Published: September 2012

Abstract: Piebaldism is a rare genodermatosis caused byKITmutations. We report the case of a 5‐year‐old boy who had the white forelock and leukoderma of piebaldism, but the presence of many café‐au‐lait macules and axillary and inguinal freckling complicated the diagnosis. Patients with similar cutaneous findings have been previously reported, and their disorder has been attributed to an overlap of piebaldism and neurofibromatosis type 1. Legius syndrome is a recently described syndrome caused by Sprouty‐related, Ena/vasodilator‐stimulated phosphoprotein homology‐1 domain containing protein 1 (SPRED1) mutations that also has multiple café‐au‐lait macules and intertriginous freckling. Based on our current understanding of KIT and SPRED1 protein interactions, we propose that café‐au‐lait macules and freckling may be seen in some patients with piebaldism and does not necessarily represent coexistence of neurofibromatosis type 1.
Perceived Risk and Benefit of Nuclear Waste Repositories: Four Opinion Clusters
Authors: Seidl Roman , Moser Corinne , Stauffacher Michael , Krütli Pius
Published: September 2012

Local public resistance can block the site‐selection process, construction, and operation of nuclear waste repositories. Social science has established that the perception of risks and benefits, trust in authorities, and opinion on nuclear energy play important roles in acceptance. In particular, risk and benefit evaluations seem critical for opinion formation. However, risks and benefits have rarely been studied independently and, most often, the focus has been on the two most salient groups of proponents and opponents. The aim of this exploratory study is to examine the often‐neglected majority of people holding ambivalent or indifferent opinions. We used cluster analysis to examine the sample (N = 500, mailed survey in German‐speaking Switzerland) in terms of patterns of risk and benefit perception. We reveal four significantly different and plausible clusters: one cluster with high‐benefit ratings in favor of a repository and one cluster with high‐risk ratings opposing it; a third cluster shows ambivalence, with high ratings on both risk and benefit scales and moderate opposition, whereas a fourth cluster seems indifferent, rating risks and benefits only moderately compared to the ambivalent cluster. We conclude that a closer look at the often neglected but considerable number of people with ambivalent or indifferent opinions is necessary. Although the extreme factions of the public will most probably not change their opinion, we do not yet know how the opinion of the ambivalent and indifferent clusters might develop over time.
Fuzzy‐Logic‐Based Safety Verification Framework for Nuclear Power Plants
Authors: Rastogi Achint , Gabbar Hossam A.
Published: September 2012

This article presents a practical implementation of a safety verification framework for nuclear power plants (NPPs) based on fuzzy logic where hazard scenarios are identified in view of safety and control limits in different plant process values. Risk is estimated quantitatively and compared with safety limits in real time so that safety verification can be achieved. Fuzzy logic is used to define safety rules that map hazard condition with required safety protection in view of risk estimate. Case studies are analyzed from NPP to realize the proposed real‐time safety verification framework. An automated system is developed to demonstrate the safety limit for different hazard scenarios.
Internationalization of Family–Controlled Firms: A Study of the Effects of External Involvement in Governance
Authors: Arregle Jean–Luc , Naldi Lucia , Nordqvist Mattias , Hitt Michael A.
Published: September 2012

This research focuses on family–controlled firms as an important type of family firms, and demonstrates how external parties in the governance (ownership and board of directors) can serve as a catalyst for their internationalization. Our framework also embraces the moderating effects of the competitive environmental heterogeneity and past performance on the relationship between external, nonfamily involvement in governance, and internationalization (scale and scope). The hypotheses are tested on a sample of 351 Swedish family–controlled firms. Our findings extend previous research on family firms and their internationalization, especially addressing some of the prior mixed findings, and offers implications for both theory and practice.
Socioemotional Wealth and Proactive Stakeholder Engagement: Why Family–Controlled Firms Care More about their Stakeholders
Authors: Cennamo Carmelo , Berrone Pascual , Cruz Cristina , Gomez–Mejia Luis R.
Published: September 2012

While family business research has prominently recognized that family firms are motivated by nonfinancial factors, the literature has remained relatively silent about whether or not these firms are more likely than others to engage actively with their stakeholders, who often have nonpecuniary demands. This paper argues that family firms are more prone to adopt proactive stakeholder engagement (PSE) activities because by doing so they preserve and enhance their socioemotional wealth (SEW). We explore the impact of the different dimensions of SEW on PSE and identify distinctive logics that explain the adoption of such practices. Finally, we offer a set of topics for future studies.
Article Commentary: Extending the Socioemotional Wealth Perspective: A Look at the Dark Side
Authors: Kellermanns Franz W. , Eddleston Kimberly A. , Zellweger Thomas M.
Published: September 2012

We extend the socioemotional wealth (SEW) perspective by arguing that SEW can be negatively associated with proactive stakeholder engagement (PSE). We further suggest that the SEW dimensions can be associated with positive or negative valence. Lastly, we propose that negatively valenced SEW dimensions lead to family–centric behavior, which negatively affects PSE. This multifaceted conceptualization of SEW allows us to explain how family firms can partake in harmful stakeholder behaviors despite having seemingly strong SEW. Our paper suggests that SEW can be either an affective endowment or burden for family firms and their constituents.
The Anatomic Impact of Sequential, Additional, Ostial Radiofrequency Ablation Following Pulmonary Vein Cryo‐Isolation
Authors: TRAULLÉ SARAH , MIYAZAKI SHINSUKE , MOUQUET VINCENT , KUBALA MACIEJ , HERMIDA JEAN‐SYLVAIN
Published: September 2012

Background
: Although pulmonary vein (PV) stenosis is a serious complication of radiofrequency PV isolation, the anatomical impact of a combination of two energy sources on PV diameter has not been evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of supplementary point‐by‐point radiofrequency applications (following PV cryoablation) on the PV orifice diameter.

Methods
: Forty‐nine patients having undergone PV isolation for drug‐refractory atrial fibrillation were included. All had undergone cardiac computed tomography before ablation and again at least 3 months afterwards. When isolation with the cryoballoon was not complete, a conventional irrigated‐tip radiofrequency catheter was used for point‐by‐point applications.

Results
: Of the 189 target PVs, 117 were isolated with cryotherapy alone (cryo PVs) and 72 required additional radiofrequency (hybrid PVs). The second scan (performed an average of 11.4 ± 5.4 months after) showed a decrease in diameter for all the hybrid PVs (17.2 ± 2.6 to 16.3 ± 3.4 mm; P = 0.037) but no change for the cryo PVs. This change was associated with a decrease in left superior pulmonary vein (LSPV) diameter (19.2 ± 3.0 to 17.8 ± 4.9 mm, P = 0.014). There were no changes in other veins. A subgroup analysis for the LSPV revealed a decrease for the hybrid PVs (18.8 ± 3.6 to 15.9 ± 7.1 mm, P = 0.046) but not for the cryo PVs. Significant PV stenosis was observed in three hybrid PVs (two severe stenosis of the LSPV and one moderate stenosis of the right inferior pulmonary vein) but not in cryo PVs (4.1% vs 0%, respectively; P = 0.023).

Conclusions
: Cryoballoon ablation of the PV with adjunct, focal, irrigated ostial RF applications may be associated with a higher risk of PV stenosis. (PACE 2012;35:1420–1427)
Role of Live/Real Time Three‐Dimensional Transesophageal Echocardiography in the Percutaneous Epicardial Closure of the Left Atrial Appendage
Authors: Joshi Deepak , Mazimba Sula , Neal Kay G. , Nanda Navin C. , Fan Pohoey , Schlotter Florian , Venkataraman Rajesh , Dumaswala Bhavin , Dumaswala Komal
Published: September 2012

We are reporting the use of three‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography as a supplement to two‐dimensional transesophageal echocardiography in the percutaneous suture closure of the left atrial appendage.
Challenges in Device Closure of a Large Patent Ductus Arteriosus in Infants Weighing Less Than 6 Kg
Authors: VIJAYALAKSHMI I. B. , CHITRA NARASIMHAN , PRAVEEN JAYAN , PRASANNA SIMHA RAO
Published: September 2012

Introduction

Transcatheter closure of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) has replaced surgery in most institutions. Despite improvements in techniques and the devices available, closure of large PDA in very small infants remains a challenge.

Aim

To assess the challenges, feasibility, and efficacy of device closure of large PDA, in infants weighing ≤6 kg.

Materials and Methods

Analysis of device closure of a PDA was done in 61 infants ≤6 kg. Their ages, ranged from 9 days–12 months (mean 8.9 months), weight ranged from 2.2 to 6 kg (mean 5.3 kg), and PDA measured 3.2–8.7 mm (mean 4.8 mm). The fluoroscopy time was 3–18 minutes. The largest device used was 12 × 10 mm.

Results

Successful device placement was achieved in 60/61 infants (98.4%). Mild aortic obstruction occurred in 2 cases (3.3%), as the device got displaced towards the aorta after release. The device embolized in 2 cases (3.3%). In one it was retrieved by a novel method like fastening the screw in the aorta and was closed with a 4 × 6 ADO II. In the other infant, with a single kidney, died of uremia after device retrieval. Mild left pulmonary artery (LPA) obstruction occurred in one case (1.6%). Four cases (6.6%) had minor vascular complications. The postprocedure weight gain after 3 months was between 2.5 kg ± 250 mg.

Conclusions

Device closure of large PDA in infants weighing ≤6 kg with left ventricular failure is challenging but possible, safe and effective. Retrieval of embolized device could be tricky. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:69–76)
A Note on Using Regression Models to Analyze Randomized Trials: Asymptotically Valid Hypothesis Tests Despite Incorrectly Specified Models
Authors: Kim Jane Paik
Published: September 2012

In the context of randomized trials, Rosenblum and van der Laan (2009, Biometrics 63, 937–945) considered the null hypothesis of no treatment effect on the mean outcome within strata of baseline variables. They showed that hypothesis tests based on linear regression models and generalized linear regression models are guaranteed to have asymptotically correct Type I error regardless of the actual data generating distribution, assuming the treatment assignment is independent of covariates. We consider another important outcome in randomized trials, the time from randomization until failure, and the null hypothesis of no treatment effect on the survivor function conditional on a set of baseline variables. By a direct application of arguments in Rosenblum and van der Laan (2009), we show that hypothesis tests based on multiplicative hazards models with an exponential link, i.e., proportional hazards models, and multiplicative hazards models with linear link functions where the baseline hazard is parameterized, are asymptotically valid under model misspecification provided that the censoring distribution is independent of the treatment assignment given the covariates. In the case of the Cox model and linear link model with unspecified baseline hazard function, the arguments in Rosenblum and van der Laan (2009) cannot be applied to show the robustness of a misspecified model. Instead, we adopt an approach used in previous literature (Struthers and Kalbfleisch, 1986, Biometrika 73, 363–369) to show that hypothesis tests based on these models, including models with interaction terms, have correct type I error.
Using Intergroup Contact Theory to Reduce Stigma Against Transgender Individuals: Impact of a Transgender Speaker Panel Presentation
Authors: Walch Susan E. , Sinkkanen Kimberly A. , Swain Elisabeth M. , Francisco Jacquelyn , Breaux Cassi A. , Sjoberg Marie D.
Published: September 2012

Sexual minorities experience significant stigma and prejudice. Much research has examined sexual stigma and prejudice impacting gay and lesbian individuals, but limited research has examined other sexual minorities, such as transgender persons or individuals whose gender identity or expression is incongruent with their assigned gender or anatomical sex. Research has found that interpersonal contact with sexual minorities is associated with lower sexual stigma and prejudice. Intergroup contact theory predicts that interaction between groups can reduce stereotyping and improve intergroup relationships. Using a randomized crossover design, this study compared the impact of exposure to a transgender speaker panel vs. a traditional transgender lecture presentation on transphobia. Results indicated greater immediate reductions of transphobia following the transgender speaker panel than traditional lecture.
Does soil nitrogen availability mediate the response of grassland composition to water regime?
Authors: Araya Yoseph N. , Gowing David J. , Dise N.
Published: September 2012

Questions

How is the composition of wet meadow plant communities influenced by water regime? What controls soil nitrogen (N) availability along a gentle soil water regime gradient? Is vegetation response to subtle changes in soil water regime mediated by N availability?

Location

Cricklade, Wiltshire, southwest England.

Methods

A field survey of community composition and soil N availability was conducted along a gentle gradient of water table depth (mean water table depth between 25 and 70 cm) at a species‐rich hay meadow in southwest England. This study was complemented by a controlled mescosm study undertaken at water table depths between 5 and 45 cm, and a controlled laboratory N mineralization study with water tension varying between 0 and 100 cm (0–10 kPa), the latter augmented with a microbial community study.

Results

The field, mesocosm and laboratory studies showed that the soil N mineralization rate and N availability responded to water regime. In particular, the N mineralization rate strongly declined when the soil air‐filled pore space dropped below 10% of total soil volume. In the field, plant cover distribution (individual species as well as functional groups) correlated with increase in soil water table depth (r = −0.86 and r = 0.89 for graminoids and forbs, respectively) and soil N availability (r = 0.77 and r = −0.85, respectively). A switch in dominance between forbs and graminoids occurred at a mean water table depth of 55 cm and mean soil inorganic N of 20 mg·kg−1). Study of the soil microbial community composition in the mesocosms, using phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) signatures, showed that microbial community composition was also significantly influenced by soil water status.

Conclusions

We show that soil moisture content and soil aeration control the availability of N, a limiting nutrient, in species‐rich wet meadows. The mechanism is linked to changes in suitability of the soil water regime for microbially mediated N mineralization. Maintaining the water regime is therefore critical because adjustment of the hydrological niche also conditions species' responses along the N availability gradient. This could subsequently prove a useful tool for conservation managers trying to sustain a target vegetation type.
Rural Roadway Safety Perceptions Among Rural Teen Drivers Living in and Outside of Towns
Authors: Ramirez Marizen , Roth Lisa , Young Tracy , Peek‐Asa Corinne
Published: September 2012

Purpose: To compare perceptions about rural road and general driving behaviors between teens who live in‐ and out‐of‐town from rural communities in Iowa.

Methods: A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with 160 teens anticipating their Intermediate License within 3 months upon enrollment into this study. Self‐administered surveys were used to collect demographics and driving exposures (eg, frequency of driving, age when first drove unsupervised). Two Likert scales were included to measure agreement with safe driving behaviors on rural roads and general safe driving behaviors (eg, speeding, seat belt use). T‐tests were calculated comparing mean composite scores between in‐ and out‐of‐town teens, and between mean rural road and general driving safety attitude scores. A linear regression multivariable model was constructed to identify predictors of the rural road score.

Results: While the majority of teens endorsed rural road and general safe driving behaviors, up to 40% did not. Thirty‐two percent did not believe the dangers of animals on rural roads, and 40% disagreed that exceeding the speed limit is dangerous. In‐town teens were less safety conscious about rural road hazards with a significantly lower mean composite score (4.4) than out‐of‐town teens (4.6); mean scores for general driving behaviors were similar. Living out‐of‐town and owning one's own car were significant predictors of increased rural road safety scores.

Conclusion: Rural, in‐town teens have poorer safety attitudes about rural roadway hazards compared with out‐of‐town teens. Interventions that involve education, parental supervision, and practice on rural roads are critical for preventing teen crashes on rural roads.
Functional imaging studies of emotion regulation: a synthetic review and evolving model of the cognitive control of emotion
Authors: Ochsner Kevin N. , Silvers Jennifer A. , Buhle Jason T.
Published: September 2012

This paper reviews and synthesizes functional imaging research that over the past decade has begun to offer new insights into the brain mechanisms underlying emotion regulation. Toward that end, the first section of the paper outlines a model of the processes and neural systems involved in emotion generation and regulation. The second section surveys recent research supporting and elaborating the model, focusing primarily on studies of the most commonly investigated strategy, which is known as reappraisal. At its core, the model specifies how prefrontal and cingulate control systems modulate activity in perceptual, semantic, and affect systems as a function of one's regulatory goals, tactics, and the nature of the stimuli and emotions being regulated. This section also shows how the model can be generalized to understand the brain mechanisms underlying other emotion regulation strategies as well as a range of other allied phenomena. The third and last section considers directions for future research, including how basic models of emotion regulation can be translated to understand changes in emotion across the life span and in clinical disorders.
Activated hepatic stellate cells mediate the differentiation of macrophages
Authors: Chang Jonathan , Hisamatsu Tadakazu , Shimamura Katsuyoshi , Yoneno Kazuaki , Adachi Masayuki , Naruse Hiroshi , Igarashi Toru , Higuchi Hajime , Matsuoka Katsuyoshi , Kitazume Mina T. , Ando Setsu , Kamada Nobuhiko , Kanai Takanori , Hibi Toshifumi
Published: September 2012

Aim

Liver macrophages play integral roles in both the progression and resolution of hepatic inflammation and fibrosis, comprising opposing functions that largely coincide with the activation state of nearby hepatic stellate cells (HSC). While cross‐talk between HSC and macrophages may be essential at various stages of inflammation and fibrogenesis, many facets of this interaction have yet to be thoroughly explored. Here, we examine the potential roles of HSC‐derived signaling molecules as mediators of liver macrophage differentiation.

Methods

Human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) were differentiated to macrophages in the presence or absence of cultured HSC‐derived conditioned media. The phenotype of resulting macrophages was characterized by examination of cell surface marker expression, antigen‐presenting capabilities and cytokine secretion.

Results

Conditioned media from activated human HSC promoted the differentiation of a unique set of macrophages that differed in morphology and function from both classical (M1) and alternative (M2) macrophages, expressing increased levels of CD14 and CD16, as well as a distinct interleukin (IL)‐6high/IL‐10low/transforming growth factor (TGF)‐βhigh expression profile. These macrophages expressed high levels of CD206, CD209, CD80 and human leukocyte antigen DR, though no significant increases in antigen presentation were apparent. HSC‐derived macrophages exhibited specific activation of p38 mitogen‐activated protein kinase, and inhibition of this activation by p38 inhibitors during differentiation effectively reversed increases in IL‐6 and TGF‐β.

Conclusion

The present results suggest that HSC‐derived signaling molecules promote differentiation of liver macrophages with both pro‐inflammatory and profibrotic functions. Furthermore, these effects appear to be mediated, at least partially, in a p38‐dependent manner.
Music and Suicidality: A Quantitative Review and Extension
Authors: Stack Steven , Lester David , Rosenberg Jonathan S.
Published: September 2012

This article provides the first quantitative review of the literature on music and suicidality. Multivariate logistic regression techniques are applied to 90 findings from 21 studies. Investigations employing ecological data on suicide completions are 19.2 times more apt than other studies to report a link between music and suicide. More recent and studies with large samples are also more apt than their counterparts to report significant results. Further, none of the studies based on experimental research designs found a link between music and suicide ideation, prompting us to do a brief content analysis of 24 suicide songs versus 24 nonsuicide songs from the same album. Using Linguistic Inquiry and Word Count software, we found no difference in the content of the suicide songs and controls, including the percentage of sad words, negative affect, and mentions of death, thus providing an explanation for nonfindings from experimental research. In summary, ecologically based (which capture at‐risk persons not in typical school‐based samples) and more recent investigations (which have used superior or new methodologies) tend to demonstrate a linkage between music and suicidality. Experimental research is needed with a control group of songs from an alternative genre with low suicidogenic content.
The Impact of an Online Learning Community Project on University Chinese as a Foreign Language Students’ Motivation
Authors: Cai Shengrong , Zhu Wei
Published: September 2012

This study investigated the impact of an online learning community project on university students’ motivation in learning Chinese as a foreign language. A newly proposed second language (L2) motivation theory—the L2 motivational self system (Dörnyei, 2005, 2009)—guided this study. A concurrent transformative mixed‐methods design was employed to collect both quantitative and qualitative data through the pre‐ and posttest of a questionnaire. Results from paired t tests indicated a significant difference in the L2 learning experience aspect of motivation before and after the online project, while there was no significant difference in the other two aspects of motivation (i.e., the ideal L2 self and the ought‐to L2 self). Specific motivating and demotivating features of the online project were identified from participants’ responses to an open‐ended question.
Galactic chemical evolution and the oxygen isotopic composition of the solar system
Authors: NITTLER Larry R. , GAIDOS Eric
Published: September 2012

Abstract– We review current observational and theoretical constraints on the galactic chemical evolution (GCE) of oxygen isotopes to explore whether GCE plays a role in explaining the lower 17O/18O ratio of the Sun, relative to the present‐day interstellar medium, or the existence of distinct 16O‐rich and 16O‐poor reservoirs in the solar system. Although the production of both 17O and 18O are related to the metallicity of progenitor stars, 17O is most likely produced in stars that evolve on longer timescales than those that produce 18O. Therefore, the 17O/18O ratio need not have remained constant over time, contrary to preconceptions and the simplest models of GCE. An apparent linear, slope‐one correlation between δ17O and δ18O in the ISM need not necessarily reflect an O isotopic gradient, and any slope‐one galactocentric gradient need not correspond to evolution in time. Instead, increasing 17O/18O is consistent both with observational data from molecular clouds and with modeling of the compositions of presolar grains. Models in which the rate of star formation has decelerated over the past few Gyr or in which an enhanced period of star formation occurred shortly before solar birth (“starburst”) can explain the solar‐ISM O‐isotopic difference without requiring a local input of supernova ejecta into the protosolar cloud. “Cosmic chemical memory” models in which interstellar dust is on average older than interstellar gas predict that primordial solar system solids should be 16O‐rich, relative to the Sun, in conflict with observations. However, scenarios can be constructed in which the 16O‐rich contribution of very massive stars could lead to 16O‐poor solids and a 16O‐rich bulk Sun, if the solar system formed shortly after a starburst, independent of the popular scenario of photochemical self‐shielding of CO.
Identifying between‐person and within‐person factors to enhance understanding of observed score profiles
Authors: Kim Se‐Kang
Published: September 2012

This study aims to reparameterize ordinary factors into between‐ and within‐person factor effects and utilize an array of the within‐person factor loadings as a latent profile which encapsulates all score responses of individuals in a population. To illustrate, the Woodcock–Johnson III (WJ‐III) tests of cognitive abilities were analysed and one between‐ and two within‐person factors were identified. The scoring patterns of individuals in the WJ‐III sample were interpreted according to the within‐person factor patterns. Regression analyses were performed to examine how much the within‐person factors accounted for the person scoring patterns and criterion variables. Finally, the importance and applications of the between‐ and within‐person factors are discussed.
Population‐based trends in overweight and obesity: a comparative study of 2 148 342 Israeli male and female adolescents born 1950–1993
Authors: Meydan C. , Afek A. , Derazne E. , Tzur D. , Twig G. , Gordon B. , Shamiss A.
Published: September 2012

What is already known about this subject?

Obesity is rising among children and adolescents in Israel and as a global trend.

Obesity during adolescence correlates to morbidity in adulthood.

Socio‐demographic and ethnic factors are risk modifiers for obesity.

What this study adds?

Temporal trends of obesity in adolescents in a large study with measured physical dimensions.

A descriptive case study of obesity trends in a country that shifted from developing to booming.

Elucidation of risk factors for obesity in adolescents, including socioeconomic status, geographical origin and education.

Exploration of gender disparities.

Background

The epidemic of obesity has been identified as a major source of morbidity, not just in developed countries but globally, in adults as well as at younger ages.

Objective

The aims of this study were to describe trends in obesity and overweight in Israeli adolescents and observe temporal changes and association by risk factors.

Methods

The research analyzed records of 2 148 342 Jewish adolescents, over a span of 44 years and included data for individual body measurements, place of residence, area of origin and education levels. Body mass index (BMI) was measured by professionals, calculated and categorized as overweight or obesity according to age‐ and gender‐specific BMI curves established in recent years. We processed the data in multinomial logistic regression model and calculated odds ratios for various risk factors.

Results

Obesity and overweight are on the rise for male and female adolescents born from the mid‐1960s onwards, and especially for men from the 1980s onwards. Risk factors for male adolescents include lower socioeconomic status, inferior education levels and Western origins (vs. Asian, African or Israeli origins). Risk modifiers for women were similar, except for African origins, which were associated with increased risk rather than decreased risk. Asian and Israeli origins were protective for both genders, and education was more strongly associated with obesity for women.

Conclusions

We recommend stronger preventive efforts directed at adolescents as a whole, and particularly vulnerable groups with lower education levels and poverty, or those with specific geographical origins. Gender disparities are evident and should be considered in these efforts and in further research.
Guided gingival fibroblast attachment to titanium surfaces: an in vitro study
Authors: Kearns Victoria R , Williams Rachel L. , Mirvakily Felora , Doherty Patrick J. , Martin Nicolas
Published: September 2012

Aim

To assess the potential of gingival fibroblasts to attach in a predetermined linear orientation to a nano‐topography of aligned fibres on titanium surfaces and determine the ability of such cells to deposit aligned collagen fibre matrix.

Materials and Methods

smooth glass and rough titanium substrates were coated with polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) nano‐fibres. Ammonia plasma treatment was used to modify the surface chemistry. Human gingival fibroblasts were cultured on substrates and orientation and collagen deposition was assessed.

Results

Straight, unidirectional, parallel PTFE nano‐fibres were deposited over the titanium features. By 7 days, the majority of cells were observed to orient to untreated fibres despite the presence of competing titanium surface features. On plasma‐treated fibre‐coated titanium substrates, cell orientation was mixed. On uncoated substrates, the majority of cells oriented to the titanium surface features. On fibre‐coated glass substrates, cells oriented themselves with untreated and plasma‐treated fibres and secreted collagen in the same direction after 1 week. On uncoated glass substrates, there was no preferred direction of collagen orientation.

Conclusion

Polytetrafluoroethylene nano‐fibres induced cell and collagen orientation. Surface chemistry appeared only to affect cell behaviour at early time points. An implant surface that controls cell orientation may also influence the orientation of collagen, providing improved gingival support.
A randomised titrated crossover study comparing two oral appliances in the treatment for mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome
Authors: Zhou J. , Liu Y.H.
Published: September 2012

The objective of this study was to compare the efficiency of two oral appliances in patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnoea/hypopnoea syndrome (OSAHS) by the analysis of objective and subjective evaluations and measurement of upper airway parameter. A randomised crossover design trial was carried out on 16 patients with OSAHS. Two different types of oral appliances were tested in each patient, a one‐piece monoblock and the SILENT NITE® (GlideWell Laboratories, Newport Beach, CA, USA), a two‐piece appliance. Each oral appliance needed to be worn for two 3‐month periods separated by a 2‐week wash‐out period in between. The objective and subjective efficiency and upper airway parameters associated with the oral appliances were assessed. One‐way analysis of variance (anova) test was performed to compare the changes in upper airway morphology and the treatment efficiency between the appliances. The monoblock and SILENT NITE® (GlideWell Laboratories) appliances reduced Apnoea Hypopnoea Index (AHI) from 26·38 ± 4·13 to 7·58 ± 2·28 (P < 0·001) and 8·87 ± 2·88 (P < 0·001), respectively. The monoblock appliance was statistically more efficient in reducing AHI and Apnoea Index (AI) than the SILENT NITE® (GlideWell Laboratories) (P < 0·05). The scores on Epworth's Sleepiness Scale (ESS) and Snoring Scale (SS) were improved significantly by both appliances. The upper airway spaces showed considerable enlargement by both mandibular advancement appliances (MAAs) (P < 0·05), while no significant differences were found between the two appliances (P > 0·05). Both MAAs showed good efficacy in the treatment for mild to moderate OSAHS. Use of the monoblock appliance should be considered when patients with OSAHS choose MAA treatment, as it was more efficient in reducing the AHI and AI compared to the two‐piece appliance and was preferred by most patients. Long‐term efficiency should be evaluated in future prospective studies.
Topology of the microsomal glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferase Gpt2p/Gat1p of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Pagac Martin , Vazquez Hector M. , Bochud Arlette , Roubaty Carole , Knöpfli Cécile , Vionnet Christine , Conzelmann Andreas
Published: September 2012

All glycerophospholipids are made from phosphatidic acid, which, according to the traditional view, is generated at the cytosolic surface of the ER. In yeast, phosphatidic acid is synthesized de novo by two acyl‐CoA‐dependent acylation reactions. The first is catalysed by one of the two homologous glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferases Gpt2p/Gat1p and Sct1p/Gat2p, the second by one of the two 1‐acyl‐sn‐glycerol‐3‐phosphate acyltransferases Slc1p and Ale1p/Slc4p. To study the biogenesis and topology of Gpt2p we observed the location of dual topology reporters inserted after various transmembrane helices. Moreover, using microsomes, we probed the accessibility of natural and substituted cysteine residues to a membrane impermeant alkylating agent and tested the protease sensitivity of various epitope tags inserted into Gpt2p. Finally, we assayed the sensitivity of the acyltransferase activity to membrane impermeant agents targeting lysine residues. By all these criteria we find that the most conserved motifs of Gpt2p and its functionally relevant lysines are oriented towards the ER lumen. Thus, the first step in biosynthesis of phosphatidic acid in yeast seems to occur in the ER lumen and substrates may have to cross the ER membrane.
New light through old windows: nurses, colonists and indigenous survival
Authors: McKillop Ann , Sheridan Nicolette , Rowe Deborah
Published: September 2012

The aim of this study was to explore the influences, processes and environments that shaped the practice of European nurses for indigenous New Zealand (NZ) Māori communities who were being overwhelmed by introduced infectious diseases. Historical data were accessed from multiple archival sources and analysed through the lens of colonial theory. Through their work early last century, NZ nurses actively gained professional status and territory through their work with Māori. By living and working alongside Māori, they learned to practise in new ways that influenced Māori health. By developing a new role in new professional territory, nurses extended their practice to include health promotion as well as disease prevention. Māori survival from epidemics improved, and the population grew over that period. For Māori, however, Eurocentric care alleviated their immediate health problems, but the detrimental impact of the mechanisms of colonisation overall has continued to the present day.
Carbon nanotubes functionalized with sodium hyaluronate restore bone repair in diabetic rat sockets
Authors: Sá MA , Andrade VB , Mendes RM , Caliari MV , Ladeira LO , Silva EE , Silva GAB , Corrêa‐Júnior JD , Ferreira AJ
Published: September 2012

Objective

We evaluated the effects of sodium hyaluronate (HY) and carbon nanotubes functionalized with HY (HY‐CNT) on bone repair in the tooth sockets of diabetic rats.

Materials and Methods

Diabetes was induced by streptozotocin (50 mg kg−1 i.v.), and the sockets were divided into normal control, diabetic control, diabetic treated with HY (1%), and diabetic treated with HY‐CNT (100 μg ml−1) groups. The sockets were analyzed according to the percentage of bone formation and the number of cell nuclei.

Results

The percentage of bone trabeculae was lower in diabetic control animals (11.16 ± 5.10% vs 41.92 ± 6.34% in normal animals) after 14 days. Treating diabetic animals with HY or HY‐CNT significantly increased the percentage of neoformed trabeculae (HY: 29.43 ± 3.29%; HY‐CNT: 36.90 ± 3.07%). Moreover, the sockets of diabetic animals had an increased number of cell nuclei and HY or HY‐CNT reduced this parameter.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that HY and HY‐CNT restore bone repair in the tooth sockets of diabetic rats, suggesting that these biomaterials are potential adjuvant therapies for the management of diabetes.
TBX2 expression is regulated by PAX3 in the melanocyte lineage
Authors: Liu Fang , Cao Juxiang , Lv Jinghu , Dong Liang , Pier Eric , Xu George X. , Wang Rui‐an , Xu Zhixiang , Goding Colin , Cui Rutao
Published: September 2012

The paired box homeotic gene 3 (PAX3) is a crucial regulator for the maintenance of melanocytic progenitor cells and has a poorly defined role in melanoma. To understand how PAX3 affects melanocyte and melanoma proliferation, we identified potential PAX3 downstream targets through gene expression profiling. Here, we identify T‐box 2 (TBX2), a key developmental regulator of cell identity and an antisenescence factor in melanoma, as a directly regulated PAX3 target. We also found that TBX2 is involved in the survival of melanoma cells and is overexpressed in some melanoma specimens. The identification of TBX2 as a target for PAX3 provides a key insight into how PAX3 may contribute to melanoma evolution and may provide opportunities for prosenescence therapeutic intervention aimed at disrupting the ability of PAX3 to regulate TBX2.