bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential impact of belatacept and cyclosporine A on central aortic blood pressure and arterial stiffness after renal transplantation
Authors: Seibert Felix S. , Steltzer Julia , Melilli Eduardo , Grannas Gerrit , Pagonas Nikolaos , Bauer Frederic , Zidek Walter , Grinyó Josep , Westhoff Timm H.
Published: June 2014

Calcineurin inhibitors (CNI) are potent vasoconstrictors and induce an acceleration of arteriosclerosis, thus contributing to the cardiovascular risk after renal transplantation. The study compares the impact of belatacept and cyclosporine A (CsA) on arterial stiffness and central aortic blood pressure. We performed a case–control study in 46 patients (23 on belatacept and 23 on CsA) matched for age, body mass index, time after transplantation, and time on dialysis prior to transplantation. Pulse wave analysis (SphygmoCor, AtCor®) was used to assess central aortic blood pressure, aortic augmentation pressure, and pulse wave velocity (PWV) as a marker of arterial stiffness. Assessment of vascular function was performed after a minimum of 20 months and a median follow‐up of 81 months post‐transplant. Peripheral systolic and diastolic blood pressure did not significantly differ in the two groups (p > 0.05 each). The central aortic augmentation pressure was higher in the CsA group (12.7 mmHg vs. 7.3 mmHg, p = 0.048). PWV as a measure of arterial stiffness did not differ in the two groups. Thus, belatacept is not associated with a significant difference in arterial stiffness compared to CsA after a median of 81 months post‐transplant. It is associated, however, with a lower aortic augmentation pressure, a strong independent cardiovascular risk factor.
Recent trends in cerebral palsy survival. Part I: period and cohort effects
Authors: Brooks Jordan C , Strauss David J , Shavelle Robert M , Tran Linh M , Rosenbloom Lewis , Wu Yvonne W
Published: June 2014

Aim

To determine whether the trend of improved survival among individuals with cerebral palsy (CP) inCalifornia during the 1980s and 1990s has continued during the most recent decade.

Method

In an observational cohort study we evaluated individuals withCP, aged 4 years and older, who were clients of theCaliforniaDepartment ofDevelopmentalServices. Medical diagnoses, functional disabilities, and special health care requirements were assessed withClientDevelopmentEvaluationReports made between 1983 and 2010. Trends in birth cohort survival were analyzed withKaplan‒Meier curves andCox regression. Calendar year period effects were analyzed withPoisson regression.

Results

A total of 51 923 persons withCP(28 789 males [55%], 23 134 females [45%]; mean age 14y 11mo,SD14y 1mo, range 4y 0mo to 96y 10mo) collectively contributed 662 268 years of follow‐up. There were 7690 deaths for an overall mortality rate of 11.6 per 1000 persons per year. No significant birth cohort effects on survival were observed in 4‐year‐olds who had no severe disabilities. By contrast, children who did not lift their heads in prone position who were born in more recent years had significantly lower mortality rates (Cox hazard ratio 0.971,p<0.001) than those with comparable disabilities born earlier. With regard to calendar year period effects, we found that age‐, sex‐, and disability‐specific mortality rates declined by 1.5% (95%CI0.9‒2.1) year‐over‐year from 1983 to 2010. The estimate increased to 2.5% (95%CI1.9‒3.1) per year when we additionally controlled for tube‐feeding status. Mortality rates in tube fed adolescents and adults, ages 15 to 59 years, declined by 0.9% (95%CI, 0.4‒1.4) per year. No improvement was observed for adolescents or adults who fed orally or for those over age 60. In fact, the ratio of age‐specific mortality rates for these latter groups to those in the general population, increased by 1.7% (95%CI1.3–2.0) per year during the study period.

Interpretation

The trend toward improved survival has continued throughout the most recent decade. Declines inCPchildhood mortality are comparable to the improvements observed in the United States general population (i.e. the mortality ratio in childhood has remained roughly constant over the last three decades). In contrast, the mortality ratio for most adolescents and adults withCP, relative to the general population, has increased.
Mass marking of stocked European glass eels (Anguilla anguilla) with alizarin red S
Authors: Caraguel Jean‐Marie , Charrier Fabien , Mazel Virgile , Feunteun Eric
Published: June 2014

This study describes a mass marking method suitable for European glass eel Anguilla anguilla, avoiding osmotic shock and reducing fish stress. During a single day, 360,000 glass eels intended for a stocking operation were bathed into an alizarin red S (ARS) solution, at a density of 346 ind.·l−1 before being released into a freshwater marsh along with unmarked glass eels. After 15 days, examination of marked and unmarked eels kept in enclosures in the marsh showed 100% of otoliths had been successfully marked and that no excess deaths related to marking process had occurred. Seven months after stocking, results from biometric measurements and otolith analysis, carried out on a sample of 53 elvers caught by electrofishing and belonging to the size class of the 0+ cohort, suggest that: (i) the proportions of marked and unmarked remained unchanged, hence suggesting that the marking process had not caused excess mortality, (ii) there was no difference in length, body mass or condition factor between marked and unmarked individuals, demonstrating that marking had caused no harmful effect after 7 months, and (iii) ARS marks in otoliths remained clearly visible. The benefits of this ARS mass marking technique are discussed through a stocking operation.
Astrocyte‐like glial cells physiologically regulate olfactory processing through the modification of ORN‐PN synaptic strength in Drosophila
Authors: Liu He , Zhou Bangyu , Yan Wenjun , Lei Zhengchang , Zhao Xiaoliang , Zhang Ke , Guo Aike
Published: June 2014

Astrocyte‐like glial cells are abundant in the central nervous system of adult Drosophila and exhibit morphology similar to astrocytes of mammals. Previous evidence has shown that astrocyte‐like glial cells are strongly associated with synapses in the antennal lobe (AL), the first relay of the olfactory system, where olfactory receptor neurons (ORNs) transmit information into projection neurons (PNs). However, the function of astrocyte‐like glia in the AL remains obscure. In this study, using in vivo calcium imaging, we found that astrocyte‐like glial cells exhibited spontaneous microdomain calcium elevations. Using simultaneous manipulation of glial activity and monitoring of neuronal function, we found that the astrocyte‐like glial activation, but not ensheathing glial activation, could inhibit odor‐evoked responses of PNs. Ensheathing glial cells are another subtype of glia, and are of functional importance in the AL. Electrophysiological experiments indicated that astrocyte‐like glial activation decreased the amplitude and slope of excitatory postsynaptic potentials evoked through electrical stimulation of the antennal nerve. These results suggest that astrocyte‐like glial cells may regulate olfactory processing through negative regulation of ORN–PN synaptic strength. Beyond the antennal lobe we observed astrocyte‐like glial spontaneous calcium activities in the ventromedial protocerebrum, indicating that astrocyte‐like glial spontaneous calcium elevations might be general in the adult fly brain. Overall, our study demonstrates a new function for astrocyte‐like glial cells in the physiological modulation of olfactory information transmission, possibly through regulating ORN–PN synapse strength.
Dissociable effects of social context on song and doublecortin immunoreactivity in male canaries
Authors: Alward Beau A. , Mayes Wade D. , Peng Katherine , Stevenson Tyler J. , Balthazart Jacques , Ball Gregory F.
Published: June 2014

Variation in environmental factors such as day length and social context greatly affects reproductive behavior and the brain areas that regulate these behaviors. One such behavior is song in songbirds, which males use to attract a mate during the breeding season. In these species the absence of a potential mate leads to an increase in the number of songs produced, while the presence of a mate greatly diminishes singing. Interestingly, although long days promote song behavior, producing song itself can promote the incorporation of new neurons in brain regions controlling song output. Social context can also affect such neuroplasticity in these song control nuclei. The goal of the present study was to investigate in canaries (Serinus canaria), a songbird species, how photoperiod and social context affect song and the incorporation of new neurons, as measured by the microtubule‐associated protein doublecortin (DCX) inHVC, a key vocal production brain region of the song control system. We show that long days increasedHVCsize and singing activity. In addition, male canaries paired with a female for 2 weeks showed enhancedDCX‐immunoreactivity inHVCrelative to birds housed alone. Strikingly, however, paired males sang fewer songs that exhibited a reduction in acoustic features such as song complexity and energy, compared with birds housed alone, which sang prolifically. These results show that social presence plays a significant role in the regulation of neural and behavioral plasticity in songbirds and can exert these effects in opposition to what might be expected based on activity‐induced neurogenesis.
A Systematic Review of Assessment Literacy Measures
Authors: Gotch Chad M. , French Brian F.
Published: June 2014

This work systematically reviews teacher assessment literacy measures within the context of contemporary teacher evaluation policy. In this study, the researchers collected objective tests of assessment knowledge, teacher self‐reports, and rubrics to evaluate teachers’ work in assessment literacy studies from 1991 to 2012. Then they evaluated the psychometric work from these measures against a set of claims related to score interpretation and use. Across the 36 measures reviewed, they found support for these claims was weak. This outcome highlights the need for increased work on assessment literacy measures in the educational measurement field. The authors conclude with recommendations and a resource to inform a research agenda focused on assessment literacy measurement to inform policy and practice.
Evaluating the Predictive Value of Growth Prediction Models
Authors: Murphy Daniel L. , Gaertner Matthew N.
Published: June 2014

This study evaluates four growth prediction models—projection, student growth percentile, trajectory, and transition table—commonly used to forecast (and give schools credit for) middle school students' future proficiency. Analyses focused on vertically scaled summative mathematics assessments, and two performance standards conditions (high rigor and low rigor) were examined. Results suggest that, when “status plus growth” is the accountability metric a state uses to reward or sanction schools, growth prediction models offer value above and beyond status‐only accountability systems in most, but not all, circumstances. Predictive growth models offer little value beyond status‐only systems if the future target proficiency cut score is rigorous. Conversely, certain models (e.g., projection) provide substantial additional value when the future target cut score is relatively low. In general, growth prediction models' predictive value is limited by a lack of power to detect students who are truly on‐track. Limitations and policy implications are discussed, including the utility of growth projection models in assessment and accountability systems organized around ambitious college‐readiness goals.
Sealant retention is better assessed through colour photographs than through the replica and the visual examination methods
Authors: Hu Xuan , Fan Mingwan , Rong Wensheng , Lo Edward C. M. , Bronkhorst Ewald , Frencken Jo E.
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to test the hypothesis that the colour photograph method has a higher level of validity for assessing sealant retention than the visual clinical examination and replica methods. Sealed molars were assessed by two evaluators. The scores for the three methods were compared against consensus scores derived through assessing retention from scanning electron microscopy images (reference standard). The presence/absence (survival) of retained sealants on occlusal surfaces was determined according to the traditional and modified categorizations of retention. Sensitivity, specificity, and Youden‐index scores were calculated. Sealant retention assessment scores for visual clinical examinations and for colour photographs were compared with those of the reference standard on 95 surfaces, and sealant retention assessment scores for replicas were compared with those of the reference standard on 33 surfaces. The highest mean Youden‐index score for the presence/absence of sealant material was observed for the colour photograph method, followed by that for the replica method; the visual clinical examination method scored lowest. The mean Youden‐index score for the survival of retained sealants was highest for the colour photograph method for both the traditional (0.882) and the modified (0.768) categories of sealant retention, whilst the visual clinical examination method had the lowest Youden‐index score for these categories (0.745 and 0.063, respectively). The colour photograph method had a higher validity than the replica and the visual examination methods for assessing sealant retention.
Phenacoccus madeirensis(Hemiptera:Pseudococcidae): a new species of mealybug inTunisia
Authors: Halima‐Kamel M. B. , Germain J. F. , Mdellel L. , Abdelaoui K.
Published: June 2014

In August 2013,Phenacoccus madeirensisGreen,(Hemiptera: Pseudococcidae) was identified for the first time in Tunisia, in the region of Akouda (Sousse, coastal area of Tunisia) onCestrum nocturnum(Solanaceae) during a survey. The infestation was observed on leaves, shoots and also on the collar. This is the first record ofP. madeirensisin Tunisia and the first record of this pest in North Africa. Two other mealybugsPeliococcus cycligerandPlanococcus citriwere also recorded during this survey. They have previously been reported in Tunisia.
Awareness raising on alien species in Slovenia
Authors: Kus Veenvliet J. , Jogan N.
Published: June 2014

In Slovenia invasive alien species (IAS) have been overlooked for many years. Despite a growing body of evidence about the negative impacts of IAS, little attention has been given to the issue on a policy level. Legislation and institutional support have also been poorly developed. IAS have only been studied by a few experts. Among the general public, even the term ‘alien species’ was virtually unknown until recently. In 2008 the first nation‐wide awareness project on IAS, Project Thuja, was launched. During this project many general awareness raising activities were carried out including a travelling exhibition and a brochure for hobby gardeners. A well‐attended conference on IAS brought together stakeholders from governmental and non‐governmental sectors. In April 2012 a follow up project Thuja 2 started. This was directed to target groups (fishermen, pet keepers, pet shop employees, gardeners), to aim to change their practices and thereby limit further introductions of IAS. A web‐based system to report observations of IAS was also established. Through these activities, alien species have been recognised as a serious threat to biodiversity by various stakeholder groups. However, as the projects were carried out by non‐governmental organisations, making improvements on a policy level was limited to expert proposals. These have not yet been implemented and a national policy on IAS is still to be developed.
Communication: the fastest growing part of the management of plant invasions in Saxony‐Anhalt, Germany
Authors: Schneider K.
Published: June 2014

The Coordination Centre for Invasive Plants in protected areas of Saxony‐Anhalt (KORINA) has been active in Halle/Saale, Germany since 2010. Communication is an important part of an integrated action plan for managing invasive plant species. The first task of KORINA was to establish a network of stakeholders. Cooperation among the stakeholders was essential to collect information about invasive plants and, when necessary, to implement coordinated actions against some of these species. The second task was to engage the public in collecting information on invasive plants and in controlling them. A strategy was developed for this purpose that identified the tools and tasks to involve different target groups. The aim was to increase awareness among large portions of society. The strategy included a wide range of communication tools such as oral presentations and workshops, field trips and a smartphone application. The KORINA‐website (www.korina.info) is central in data collection through online recording and bringing species information to the people involved.
First report of brown marmorated stink bug Halyomorpha halys Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae) in Greece
Authors: Milonas P. G. , Partsinevelos G. K.
Published: June 2014

In autumn 2011, stink bugs were found causing a nuisance in houses in the centre of Athens, Greece. Specimens were identified by D.A. Rider at North Dakota State University as Halyomorpha halys Stål (Hemiptera: Pentatomidae). The species is native to Asia; it was detected in the USA in 1996 and has recently been introduced into Europe (2008). This paper provides the first report of the presence of H. halys (brown marmorated stink bug) in Greece. Some data on its phenology and economic impact are also provided.
The UK Plant Health Risk Register: a tool for prioritizing actions
Authors: Baker R. H. A. , Anderson H. , Bishop S. , MacLeod A. , Parkinson N. , Tuffen M. G.
Published: June 2014

Following unprecedented publicity concerning pest threats to UK trees in 2012, a review body recommended that a UK Plant Health Risk Register (RR) be developed to assist with the prioritisation of actions to reduce the threats posed by the major pests of plant health importance. The RR that has been developed assigns relative risk ratings to pests according to appropriate scenarios, e.g. introduction for pests that are absent. The ratings were based on rules created to summarise the likelihoods of occurrence and impacts taking into account information on the pests and factors such as their pathways, hosts, distribution, spread and impacts. Expert judgement was used where information is lacking. A score referred to as ‘the value at risk’ was obtained from economic and environmental data to produce risk ratings that reflect the value of the host sector to the UK. Risk ratings in the absence of mitigations (risk management actions) were compared with those that take existing actions into account to identify species that are priorities for additional actions, e.g. to enhance regulation or conduct pest risk analyses. The RR is now used routinely to support decision making and further developments are planned.
Is terrestrial plant import from East Asia into countries in the EPPO region a potential pathway for new emerging invasive alien plants?
Authors: van Valkenburg J. , Brunel S. , Brundu G. , Ehret P. , Follak S. , Uludag A.
Published: June 2014

Pathway analysis represents an effective means of identifying emerging invasive alien species. For plants, a significant number of invasions have been caused by plant species originally voluntary introduced as ornamentals. The pathway analysis for terrestrial ornamental plants imported from East Asia has been undertaken to provide information on the imports and to identify emerging terrestrial invasive alien plants. Data for terrestrial ornamental plants imported from East Asia into Austria, France, Italy, the Netherlands and Turkey was assembled at the genus level. Thousands of species of plants for planting are imported from East Asia in very large volumes. However, despite the fact that the data could only been analyzed at the genus level, it is considered that only a very limited number of taxa would become invasive. The potentially invasive alien species are already widely available in European nurseries and are principally produced within the European Union.
Gross, computed tomographic and histological findings in mandibular cheek teeth extracted from horses with clinical signs of pulpitis due to apical infection
Authors: Casey M. B. , Pearson G. R. , Perkins J. D. , Tremaine W. H.
Published: June 2014

Reasons for performing study

The most prevalent type of equine dental pulpitis due to apical infection is not associated with coronal fractures or periodontal disease. The pathogenesis of this type of pulpitis is not fully understood. Computed tomography (CT) is increasingly used to investigate equine dental disorders. However, gross, tomographic and histopathological changes in equine dental pulpitis have not been compared previously.

Objectives

To compare gross,CTand histological appearances of sectioned mandibular cheek teeth extracted from horses with clinical signs of pulpitis without coronal fractures or periodontal disease. To contribute to understanding the pathogenesis of equine dental pulpitis.

Study design

Descriptive study using diseased and healthy teeth.

Methods

Mandibular cheek teeth extracted from horses with clinical signs of pulpitis (cases), and from cadavers with no history of dental disease (controls), were compared usingCTin the transverse plane at 1 mm intervals. Teeth were then sectioned transversely, photographed and processed for histopathological examination. Tomographs were compared with corresponding gross and histological sections.

Results

Cement, dentine and bone had similar ranges of attenuation (550–2000HounsfieldUnits,HU) in tomographs but could be differentiated from pulp (‐400 to 500HU) and enamel (> 2500HU). Twelve discrete dental lesions were identified grossly, 10 of which were characterised histologically. Reactive and reparative dentinogenesis and extensive pulpar mineralisation, previously undescribed, were identified. Pulpar oedema, neutrophilic inflammation, cement and enamel defects, and reactive cemental deposition were also observed. TheCTand pathological findings corresponded well where there was mineralised tissue deposited, defects in mineralised tissue, or food material in the pulpar area. Pulpar and dentinal necrosis and cement destruction, evident grossly and histologically, did not correspond toCTchanges.

Conclusions

Computed tomography is useful for identifying deposition and defects of mineralised material but less useful for identifying inflammation and tissue destruction. The equine dentine‐pulp complex responds to insult with reactive and reparative changes.
New predictive approaches for ITI treatment
Authors: Minno G. D. , Santagostino E. , Pratt K. , Königs C.
Published: June 2014

Immune tolerance induction (ITI) therapy in patients with haemophilia A and inhibitors constitutes a huge burden for affected patients and families and poses a large economic burden for a chronic disease. Concerted research efforts are attempting to optimize the therapeutic approach to the prevention and eradication of inhibitors. The Italian ITI Registry has provided data on 110 patients who completed ITI therapy as at July 2013. Analysis of independent predictors of success showed that, together with previously recognized factors – namely inhibitor titre prior to ITI, historical peak titre and peak titre on ITI – the type of causative FVIII gene mutation also contributes to the identification of patients with good prognosis and may be useful to optimize candidate selection and treatment regimens. Numerous studies have demonstrated that inhibitor reactivity against different FVIII products varies and is lower against concentrates containing von Willebrand factor (VWF). An Italian study compared inhibitor titres against a panel of FVIII concentrates in vitro and correlated titres with the capacity to inhibit maximum thrombin generation as measured by the thrombin generation assay (TGA). Observations led to the design of the PredictTGA study which aims to correlate TGA results with epitope specificity, inhibitor reactivity against different FVIII concentrates and clinical data in inhibitor patients receiving FVIII in the context of ITI or as prophylactic/on demand treatment. At the immunological level, it is known that T cells drive inhibitor development and that B cells secrete FVIII‐specific antibodies. As understanding increases about the immunological response in ITI, it is becoming apparent that modulation of T‐cell‐ and B‐cell‐mediated responses offers a range of potential new and specific approaches to prevent and eliminate inhibitors as well as individualize ITI therapy.
Chaperone‐like activity of β‐casein and its effect on residual in vitro activity of horseradish peroxidase
Authors: Sulewska Anna M. , Olsen Karsten , Sørensen Jens C. , Øgendal Lars H.
Published: June 2014

In this study, the residual activity horseradish peroxidase was used as a novel marker of chaperone‐like activity of β‐casein under elevated temperature. It was shown that β‐casein does affect residual activity of horseradish peroxidase (HRP) depending on the concentration and molar ratio between proteins. Incubating HRP (0.1 mg mL−1) for 10 min at 72 °C resulted in residual activity of 59 ± 5%, while addition of 1 mg mL−1 β‐casein resulted in increase in residual activity up to 85 ± 1%. Increased residual activity is not merely attributed to an effect of higher total protein concentration, as similar experiment with bovine serum albumin resulted in residual activity of horseradish peroxidase that was significantly lower than without any addition. The effect of β‐casein on HRP disappears when pH is below the isoelectric point of β‐casein. It was also proven by light scattering studies that β‐casein interacts with horseradish peroxidase when the temperature was increased from 25 to 70 °C whereas interactions seem to cease when temperature was lowered back to 25 °C. This study highlights how specific proteins can influence enzyme activity, which is of potential importance for various industries such as enzyme manufacturers and food industry.
The effect of mammalian target of rapamycin inhibition on T helper type 17 and regulatory T cell differentiation in vitro and in vivo in kidney transplant recipients
Authors: Kim Kyoung Woon , Chung Byung Ha , Kim Bo‐Mi , Cho Mi‐La , Yang Chul Woo
Published: June 2014

Sirolimus (SRL) is a promising alternative to calcineurin inhibitors, such as tacrolimus (TAC), in kidney transplant recipients (KTRs), but the immunological benefits of conversion from calcineurin inhibitors to SRL are not fully investigated. In the present study, we evaluated the effect of conversion from TAC to SRL on the T helper type 17/regulatory T (Th17/Treg) axis in three separate studies. First, the effect of SRL on the Th17/Treg axis was evaluated in vitro using peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Second, the effect of conversion from TAC to SRL on the Th17/Treg axis was studied in KTRs. Finally, the effect of SRL on CD8+ Treg cells was evaluated. In vitro analysis of PBMCs isolated from KTRs showed that SRL suppressed Th17 cell differentiation but TAC did not. Conversion from TAC to SRL markedly decreased the number of effector memory CD8+ T cells and significantly increased the proportion of CD4+ and CD8+ Treg cells compared with TAC in KTRs. SRL treatment induced the CD8+ Treg cells, and these cells inhibited the proliferation of allogeneic CD4+ T cells and Th17 cells. In conclusion, conversion from TAC to SRL favourably regulates Th17 and Treg cell differentiation in KTRs. These findings provide a rationale for conversion from TAC to SRL in KTRs.
Samoan Philosophy of Nursing: a basis for culturally proficient care and policy
Authors: Enoka I.S. , Petrini M.A. , Turale S.
Published: June 2014

Aim

To explore nurses' perspectives about the Samoan Philosophy of Nursing, and determine its feasibility for nursing care of Samoans internationally.

Background

This philosophy is the conceptual cultural framework for nursing law, practice, education and research in Samoa, and was developed by Samoan nurses who recognized the need for guidance to deliver quality, culturally competent and proficient health care.

Design

A mixed method study, employing a questionnaire and ethnographic methods.

Method

The Samoan Philosophy of Nursing Questionnaire sought demographic data and aspects about the philosophy from 95 registered nurse clinicians, administrators and educators throughout Samoa during 2012. Descriptive statistics were used for data analysis. Additionally, 19 focus groups (5–6 participants each) and 19 in‐depth interviews were held to further explore these aspects, as well as participant observations. Descriptive statistics were used to analyse quantitative data, and Spradley's ethnographic method was adopted for analysing the qualitative data.

Findings

Of 95 questionnaires analysed, 70% of participants reported using the philosophy all the time, and 30% most of the time. They placed a high satisfaction rate, value and importance on this philosophy. From the ethnography, six major themes emerged: valuable framework of learning; conceptual framework for holistic assessment; benchmark for regulating and monitoring practice improving interaction and culturally proficient practice; potential use for Samoans overseas; and maintaining quality health and the dignity of people.

Conclusion

This first‐time study evaluated the Samoan Philosophy of Nursing and adds to nursing knowledge. Findings confirmed its usefulness as a culturally based conceptual framework to facilitate, regulate and monitor education, research and practice for sustainable health outcomes in Samoa, and for Samoans living abroad.

Implications for nursing policy and education

It is important that Samoans living abroad receive culturally proficient care, but this requires the support of policymakers, nurse leaders and educators so that nurses internationally can access and competently utilize relevant aspects of this philosophy in practice.
The contribution of migrant breeds to the genetic gain of beef traits of German Vorderwald and Hinterwald cattle
Authors: Hartwig S. , Wellmann R. , Hamann H. , Bennewitz J.
Published: June 2014

During the past decades, migrant contributions have accumulated in many local breeds. Cross‐breeding was carried out to mitigate the risk of inbreeding depression and to improve the performance of local breeds. However, breeding activities for local breeds were not as intensive and target oriented as for popular high‐yielding breeds. Therefore, even if performance improved, the gap between the performance of local and popular breeds increased for many traits. Furthermore, the genetic originality of local breeds declined due to the increasing contributions of migrant breeds. This study examined the importance of migrant breed influences for the realization of breeding progress of beef traits of German Vorderwald and Hinterwald cattle. The results show that there is a high amount of migrant contributions and their effects on performance are substantial for most traits. The effect of the French cattle breed Montbéliard (p‐value 0.014) on daily gain of Vorderwald bulls at test station was positive. The effects of Vorderwald ancestors (p‐value for daily gain 0.007 and p‐value for net gain 0.004) were positive for both traits under consideration in the population of Hinterwald cattle. Additionally, the effect of remaining breeds (p‐value 0.030) on net gain of Hinterwald cattle in the field was also positive. The estimated effect of Fleckvieh ancestors on net gain of Hinterwald cattle was even larger but not significant. Breeding values adjusted for the effects of the migrant breeds showed little genetic trend.
Candidate tumour suppressor CCDC19 regulates miR‐184 direct targeting of C‐Myc thereby suppressing cell growth in non‐small cell lung cancers
Authors: Liu Zhen , Mai Chunping , Yang Huiling , Zhen Yan , Yu Xiaoli , Hua Shengni , Wu Qiangyun , Jiang Qinping , Zhang Yajie , Song Xin , Fang Weiyi
Published: June 2014

We previously reported and revised the nasopharyngeal epithelium specific protein CCDC19 and identified it as a potential tumour suppressor in nasopharyngeal carcinoma. The purpose of this study was to investigate the involvement of CCDC19 in the pathogenesis of human non‐small cell lung cancers (NSCLC). Down‐regulated CCDC19 expression was observed in NSCLC tissues and cells compared to normal tissues. However, reduced protein expression did not correlate with the status of NSCLC progression. Instead, we observed that patients with lower CCDC19 expression had a shorter overall survival than did patients with higher CCDC19 expression. Lentiviral‐mediated CCDC19 overexpression significantly suppressed cell proliferation and cell cycle transition from G1 to S and G2 phases in NSCLC cells. Knocking down CCDC19 expression significantly restored the ability of cell growth in CCDC19 overexpressing NSCLC cells. Mechanistically CCDC19 functions as a potential tumour suppressor by stimulating miR‐184 suppression of C‐Myc thus blocking cell growth mediated by the PI3K/AKT/C‐Jun pathway. Our studies are the first to demonstrate that reduced expression of CCDC19 is an unfavourable factor in NSCLC.
ASD, ADHD, mental health conditions and psychopharmacology in neurogenetic syndromes: parent survey
Authors: Reilly C. , Senior J. , Murtagh L.
Published: June 2014

Background

There are a number of neurogenetic syndromes with well described behavioural phenotypes including fragile X syndrome, Prader–Willi syndrome, Williams syndrome and velo‐cardio‐facial syndrome (VCFS). Autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and psychiatric conditions are often associated with the syndromes.

Method

Parents (n = 381) of school‐aged children with one of the four syndromes in the UK and Ireland were asked whether their child had been professionally diagnosed with ASD, ADHD or a mental health condition. Parents were also asked whether their child had been prescribed medication for behavioural or psychiatric reasons.

Results

The highest level of reported diagnoses of ASD and ADHD was in fragile X syndrome. In all syndrome groups, lower rates of diagnosis were reported in comparison to previously published research. Prescribing of medication for behavioural/psychiatric reasons was highest in fragile X syndrome although the highest usage of melatonin was in Williams syndrome.

Conclusion

Reasons for a lower recognition of ASD, ADHD and mental health conditions in clinical practice compared with research studies may include ‘diagnostic overshadowing’ due to presence of intellectual disability and a genetic syndrome. However, there may also be a lack of belief in the utility of such diagnoses in neurogenetic syndromes among relevant professionals and/or lack of access to professionals with sufficient expertise in the recognition of such diagnoses in those with neurogenetic syndromes. The low rates of prescribing of medication for behavioural/psychiatric reasons may reflect the low level of clinical diagnoses or lack of belief in the utility of psychopharmacology in this population.
Signalling Theory and Equilibrium in Strategic Management Research: An Assessment and a Research Agenda
Authors: Bergh Donald D. , Connelly Brian L. , Ketchen David J. , Shannon Lu M.
Published: June 2014

Actors within organizations commonly must make choices armed with incomplete and asymmetrically distributed information. Signalling theory seeks to explain how individuals are able to do so. This theory's primary predictive mechanism is ‘separating equilibrium’, which occurs when a signal's expectations are confirmed through experience. A content analysis finds that most strategic management signalling theory studies have not fully leveraged separating equilibrium. This presents two possible paths for future research. First, some researchers may wish to incorporate separating equilibrium. We illustrate how doing so can uncover new relationships, generate novel insights, and fortify the theory's application. Others who want to theorize about signals, but not examine separating equilibrium, could integrate ideas from signalling theory with other information perspectives. Here a signal becomes one stimulus among many that corporate actors interpret and act upon. We provide research agendas so strategy scholars can apply signalling theory most effectively to meet their research objectives.
The chemokine receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 regulate oral cancer cell behaviour
Authors: Khurram Syed A. , Bingle Lynne , McCabe Brenka M. , Farthing Paula M. , Whawell Simon A.
Published: June 2014

Background

Chemokines regulate physiological and pathological leucocyte trafficking, and chemokine receptors play a role in tumorigenesis. Expression of interleukin‐8 (IL‐8) receptors CXCR1 and CXCR2 has been shown in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) but remains poorly characterised. This aim of this study was to investigate CXCR1 and CXCR2 expression on normal oral keratinocytes (NOKs) and oral cancer cell lines (OCCL) and their relative response when exposed to IL‐8 and growth‐related oncogene‐α (which selectively binds CXCR2).

Methods

mRNA and protein expression was studied using RT‐PCR, immunocytochemistry and flow cytometry. ELISAs were used to investigate ERK1/2 phosphorylation and MMP production, whereas a MTS‐based assay was employed to study proliferation. Migration assays were carried out using modified Boyden chambers with a matrigel coating used for invasion assays.

Results

mRNA expression of CXCR1 and CXCR2 was seen in both NOKs and OCCL with significantly higher protein expression in OCCL. Exposure to IL‐8 and GROα increased intracellular ERK phosphorylation, proliferation, migration and invasion with OCCL showing a greater response than NOKs. These effects were mediated through CXCR1 and CXCR2 (for IL‐8) and CXCR2 (for GROα) as receptor‐blocking antibodies significantly inhibited the responses. IL‐8 and GROα also increased MMP‐9 release from NOKs and OCCL with significantly higher amounts released by OCCL. However, an increase in MMP‐7 production was only seen in OCCL.

Conclusions

Functional CXCR1 and CXCR2 exist on normal and cancerous oral epithelial cells, and our data suggests a role for these receptors in oral cancer biology.
Periodontal ligament‐derived cells for periodontal regeneration in animal models: a systematic review
Authors: Bright R. , Hynes K. , Gronthos S. , Bartold P. M.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objective

Implantation of periodontal ligament stem cells is emerging as a potential periodontal regenerative procedure. This systematic review considers the evidence from animal models investigating the use of periodontal ligament stem cells for successful periodontal regeneration.

Material and Methods

PubMed, Embase, MEDLINE and Google Scholar were searched to December 2013 for quantitative studies examining the outcome of implanting periodontal ligament stem cells into experimental periodontal defects in animals. Inclusion criteria were: implantation of periodontal ligament stem cells into surgically created periodontal defects for periodontal regeneration; animal models only; source of cells either human or animal; and published in English. We followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.

Results

From the literature search, 43 studies met the inclusion criteria. A wide variety of surgical defects were created in four species of animal (dog, rat, pig and sheep). Owing to wide variability in defect type, cell source and cell scaffold, no meta‐analysis was possible. Outcome measures included new bone, new cementum and new connective tissue formation. In 70.5% of the results, statistically significant improvements of these measures was recorded.

Conclusion

These results are notable in that they indicate that irrespective of the defect type and animal model used, periodontal ligament stem cell implantation can be expected to result in a beneficial outcome for periodontal regeneration. It is recommended that there is sufficient evidence from preclinical animal studies to warrant moving to human studies to examine the efficacy, safety, feasibility (autologous vs. allogeneic transplantation) and delivery of periodontal ligament stem cells for periodontal regeneration.
Magnesium‐dependent processes are targets of bacterial manganese toxicity
Authors: Hohle Thomas H. , O'Brian Mark R.
Published: June 2014

A Bradyrhizobium japonicum mutant defective in the gene encoding the high‐affinity Mn2+ transporter MntH has a severe growth phenotype under manganese limitation. Here, we isolated suppressor mutants of an mntH strain that grew under manganese limitation, and activities of high‐affinity Mn2+ transport and Mn2+‐dependent enzymes were partially rescued. The suppressor strains harbour gain‐of‐function mutations in the gene encoding the Mg2+ channel MgtE. The MgtE variants likely allow Mn2+ entry via loss of a gating mechanism that normally holds the transporter in the closed state when cellular Mg2+ levels are high. Both MgtE‐dependent and MgtE‐independent suppressor phenotypes were recapitulated by magnesium‐limited growth of the mntH strain. Growth studies of wild‐type cells suggest that manganese is toxic to cells when environmental magnesium is low. Moreover, extracellular manganese and magnesium levels were manipulated to inhibit growth without substantially altering the intracellular content of either metal, implying that manganese toxicity depends on its cellular distribution rather than the absolute concentration. Mg2+‐dependent enzyme activities were found to be inhibited or stimulated by Mn2+. We conclude that Mn2+ can occupy Mg2+ binding sites in cells, and suggest that Mg2+‐dependent processes are targets of manganese toxicity.
Slow growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis at acidic pH is regulated by phoPR and host‐associated carbon sources
Authors: Baker Jacob J. , Johnson Benjamin K. , Abramovitch Robert B.
Published: June 2014

During pathogenesis, Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) colonizes environments, such as the macrophage or necrotic granuloma, that are acidic and rich in cholesterol and fatty acids. The goal of this study was to examine how acidic pH and available carbon sources interact to regulate Mtb physiology. Here we report that Mtb growth at acidic pH requires host‐associated carbon sources that function at the intersection of glycolysis and the TCA cycle, such as pyruvate, acetate, oxaloacetate and cholesterol. In contrast, in other tested carbon sources, Mtb fully arrests its growth at acidic pH and establishes a state of non‐replicating persistence. Growth‐arrested Mtb is resuscitated by the addition of pyruvate suggesting that growth arrest is due to a pH‐dependent checkpoint on metabolism. Additionally, we demonstrate that the phoPR two‐component regulatory system is required to slow Mtb growth at acidic pH and functions to maintain redox homeostasis. Transcriptional profiling and functional metabolic studies demonstrate that signals from acidic pH and carbon source are integrated to remodel pathways associated with anaplerotic central metabolism, lipid anabolism and the regeneration of oxidized cofactors. Because phoPR is required for Mtb virulence in animals, we suggest that pH‐driven adaptation may be critical to Mtb pathogenesis.
Antiemesis effect and brain fMRI response of gastric electrical stimulation with different parameters in dogs
Authors: Yu X. , Tu L. , Lei P. , Song J. , Xu H. , Hou X.
Published: June 2014

Background

The aims of this study were to investigate the effect of gastric electrical stimulation (GES) with different parameters on emesis induced by apomorphine, and possible center mechanisms by brain functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Methods

Six dogs implanted with electrodes on gastric serosa were used in this study. Part 1: Apomorphine was injected in the control session and GES sessions. GESs with different parameters were applied in GES session. Gastric slow waves and emesis and behaviors suggestive of nausea were recorded in each session. Part 2: Each dog was anesthetized and given GESs with different parameters or sham stimulation for 15 min after baseline (5 min), respectively. The location of cerebral activation induced by GES was investigated by fMRI.

Key Results

Apomorphine induced emesis and behaviors suggestive of nausea, and gastric dysrhythmia. The emesis frequency in control session was 5.5 ± 0.99, and symptoms score was 22.17 ± 1.01. GES with short pulse and long pulse could not improve emesis and symptoms induced by apomorphine. The emesis frequency (4.5 ± 0.76 in short pulse and 6.33 ± 1.05 in long pulse) and symptoms scores had no significant difference compared to control session (each p > 0.05). GES with trains of short pulse reduced emesis time frequency (3.83 ± 0.7, p = 0.042 vs control) and symptoms score (p = 0.037 vs control) obviously. Brain fMRI showed that GES with short pulse and long pulse activated brain stem region, and trains of short pulse made amygdala and occipital lobe activation.

Conclusions & Inferences

Apomorphine induced emesis and gastric dysrhythmia. GES with trains of short pulses relieves emetic responses through activation of amygdala region.
Standardized herbal treatments on functional bowel disorders: moving from putative mechanisms of action to controlled clinical trials
Authors: Cremonini F.
Published: June 2014

Symptom relief in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) is frequently sought with complementary and alternative medicine, and various herbal medicine compounds are popular in different parts of the world. Only a few products, however, are standardized and are backed by scientific evidence. This review mainly focuses on mechanistic and clinical data in support of the Japanese traditional compound Rikkunshi‐to (RKT) and of STW‐5. Their effects on gut sensori‐motor function, neurohormonal network, and controlled clinical data in FGID are revised. RKT and STW‐5 appear to possess some degree of gastroprokinetic, visceral analgesic properties, and seem to increase the gastric accommodation response. Controlled trials of RKT and STW‐5 support at least a modest effect on symptoms of functional dyspepsia and irritable bowel syndrome, with low side effects profile. With the widespread use of herbals and the relative paucity of effective pharmacological options for FGID, rigorous studies to further elucidate pharmacological actions and clinical applications of herbal compounds are a priority.
Activated Janus Kinase 3 expression not by activating mutations identified in Natural Killer/T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Guo Ying , Arakawa Fumiko , Miyoshi Hiroaki , Niino Daisuke , Kawano Riko , Ohshima Koichi
Published: June 2014

Janus Kinase 3 (JAK3) is a non‐receptor tyrosine kinase, predominantly expressed in hematopoietic cells, that plays an essential role in hematopoiesis during T cell development. JAK3 somatic‐activating mutations were identified in extranodal natural killer/T cell lymphomas (ENKTL) in recent cases in Singapore. We hypothesized these mutations might play an important role in the pathogenesis of T and NK cell neoplasms in other areas of the world. We performed JAK3 exon13 sequencing for different types of T and NK cell neoplasms including ENKTL (59 cases total). We identified four mutations in three (5.0%) cases. All of the mutations were from ENKTL cases (15.8%). Among the four newly found mutations, three are silent mutations and one introduces a stop codon, which was not an activating mutation as in the cases in Singapore. We detected four (30.8%) cases positive for phosphorylated JAK3 expression among 13 NKTCL cases when we performed JAK3 (phospho Y785) immunostaining on sections of ENKTL samples. It seems that phosphorylated JAK3 expression does not necessarily harbor exon 13 mutations. The mechanism responsible for activating expression of the gene will be a topic for further research.