bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A secreted decoy of InR antagonizes insulin/IGF signaling to restrict body growth in Drosophila
Authors: Okamoto Naoki , Nakamori Rinna , Murai Tomoka , Yamauchi Yuki , Masuda Aya , Nishimura Takashi
Published: January 2013

Members of the insulin peptide family have conserved roles in the regulation of growth and metabolism in a wide variety of metazoans. Drosophila insulin-like peptides (Dilps) promote tissue growth through the single insulin-like receptor (InR). Despite the important role of Dilps in nutrient-dependent growth control, the molecular mechanism that regulates the activity of circulating Dilps is not well understood. Here, we report the function of a novel secreted decoy of InR (SDR) as a negative regulator of insulin signaling. SDR is predominantly expressed in glia and is secreted into the hemolymph. Larvae lacking SDR grow at a faster rate, thereby increasing adult body size. Conversely, overexpression of SDR reduces body growth non-cell-autonomously. SDR is structurally similar to the extracellular domain of InR and interacts with several Dilps in vitro independent of Imp-L2, the ortholog of the mammalian insulin-like growth factor-binding protein 7 (IGFBP7). We further demonstrate that SDR is constantly secreted into the hemolymph independent of nutritional status and is essential for adjusting insulin signaling under adverse food conditions. We propose that Drosophila uses a secreted decoy to fine-tune systemic growth against fluctuations of circulating insulin levels.
How do healthcare professionals select the medical images they need?
Authors: Sedghi Shahram , Sanderson Mark , Clough Paul
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate how healthcare professionals search for and select the medical images they need within medical settings.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 29 healthcare professionals participated in the study. Using a think‐aloud technique and face‐to‐face interviews, the authors asked participants to explain how they looked for medical images and how they judged the relevancy of retrieved images.

Findings

A total of 15 criteria were applied by participants when determining the relevance of medical images in relation to their information needs. Topicality was found to be the primary and most important criterion used by participants.

Originality/value

This study compares the relevance criteria used for medical images with those identified in the literature and highlights six additional criteria that have not been suggested in previous work.
Setting goals for change in the information age
Authors: Yi Zhixian
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to examine how academic library directors set goals for change in the information age and the factors influencing the approaches used.

Design/methodology/approach

Bolman and Deal's reframing change model provided the foundation for this research. An online survey was sent to 1,010 academic library directors in the USA. The response rate was 59 percent. The qualitative data were analysed using content analysis. The collected quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using descriptive (frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations) and inferential statistics (binary and multinomial logistic regressions).

Findings

Most directors used multiple approaches to set goals for change. The structural and human resource approaches were the most frequent single approaches. Regression analysis confirmed that demographics, human capital, and library variables played significant roles in setting goals for change.

Research limitations/implications

Data in this study were collected from directors in libraries of doctoral granting, master‐granting, and baccalaureate‐only colleges and universities. Accordingly, the results of the study might not be generalized to college and university libraries outside this classification.

Practical implications

This paper provides a useful overview of the approaches used to set goals for change and the factors influencing the approaches used.

Originality/value

Directors may use the results to reflect on different options of the strategies for setting goals for change in the information age and balance the weight of the factors' influences. The results may also help librarians better understand various approaches to setting goals for change in the information age.
Digital preservation strategies at Colorado State University Libraries
Authors: Oehlerts Beth , Liu Shu
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to provide an account of digital archiving and preservation practices and processes successfully implemented at an academic institution.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study chronicles the planning and actions taken to identify, select, package, and archive local digital assets for long‐term access and migration. It includes a literature review and offers selected resources as a starting point for other institutions investigating digital preservation tools and practices.

Findings

Digital preservation is a broad, evolving, and important facet of digital asset management, yet often overlooked by library administration and understated in library operations. Collaborative approaches should be considered in implementing digital preservation tools and processes with limited resources.

Practical implications

What is successfully in operation at CSUL may be learned by other institutions. An effective preservation plan and established workflows will give an organization the capability to maximize limited funds and staff time.

Originality/value

The majority of the current literature provides theories, technologies, conceptual models, and large‐scale collaborations, with relatively little describing needs, practices, operations, and experiences at a specific academic library. This paper will contribute to the literature by discussing digital preservation from actual experience, based on the work we perform, the needs we face, and the solutions we reach within our current environment.
The relationship between leader fit and transformational leadership
Authors: Guay Russell P.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The aim of the current study is to further understanding of transformational leadership antecedents by examining a gap in the literature that fails to address the relationship between leader fit and transformational leader behaviors.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examined the relationship between leaders' person‐organization fit, needs‐supplies fit, and demands‐abilities fit and transformational leader behavior using a sample of 215 leaders in ten organizations, their supervisors, and 1,284 followers.

Findings

Demands‐abilities fit was positively related to transformational leadership, whereas person‐organization fit was negatively related. Transformational leadership was also related to leader effectiveness (rated by the leaders' own supervisors) and mediated the relationship between demands‐abilities fit and supervisor ratings of leader effectiveness.

Research limitations/implications

Although demands‐abilities fit was positively related to transformational leadership, these results should be interpreted with caution as it is not possible to infer causality from cross‐sectional research. Thus, longitudinal or experimental research is needed to replicate these findings.

Practical implications

Whether promoting from within or hiring externally, organizations should place more emphasis on demands‐abilities fit when trying to predict who will engage in transformational leadership behavior. In addition, leaders' own supervisors and followers appear to be in strong agreement on whether someone is an effective leader.

Originality/value

To the author's knowledge, this is the first study to examine the relationship between leader fit and transformational leadership.
Socioeconomics of crime and discretionary punishment: the case of Ghana
Authors: Akpalu Wisdom , Mohammed Anatu
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to empirically verify whether “unfettered” judicial discretion in developing countries breeds corruption or not as judges could favour elites who have access to more money to steal or punish the poor who are petty‐thieves rather harshly.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper employs Suits index and regression analysis to investigate the relationship between the amount stolen and jail time. The index which is based on Lorenz curve is used to verify whether punishment for theft cases prosecuted in Ghana is anti‐petty theft, neutral, or anti‐serious theft. The regression analysis is used to explore the determinants of punishment per unit of the crime (i.e. amount stolen).

Findings

The results strongly support the claim that disproportionate penalty is assigned to petty thefts committed mostly by the poor and non‐elites. Moreover, the regression line which is almost a perfect fit indicates penalty per unit of the amount stolen decreases by 0.8 percent if the total amount stolen increases by 1 percent.

Research limitations/implications

Due to poor records on criminals, there was very limited information on recidivism, hence this was not considered in the analysis. Second, there are much more theft convictions each year in Ghana than the sample represents. However, since the convicted cases used are random, the results are reliable enough.

Social implications

Granting enormous discretionary powers to judges in developing countries may not guarantee retributive justice. Indeed the judiciary is likely to grant favours to elites who steal more and punish the poor who normally engage in petty theft disproportionately. Consequently, high discretionary powers to judges could potentially result in high blue and white collar crimes.

Originality/value

The paper makes a novel attempt at employing Suits index and regression analysis to verify the feasibility of retributive justice in the presence of unlimited discretionary powers.
Does financial development increase rural‐urban income inequality?
Authors: Tiwari Aviral Kumar , Shahbaz Muhammad , Islam Faridul
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the impact of financial development on the rural‐urban income inequality in India using annual data from 1965 to 2008.

Design/methodology/approach

The Ng‐Perron unit root test is utilised to check for the order of integration of the variables. The long run relation is examined by implementing the ARDL bounds testing approach to cointegration.

Findings

The results confirm a relation among the variables. Evidence suggest that financial development, economic growth and consumer prices aggravate rural‐urban income inequality in the long run.

Research limitations/implications

The present study offers fresh insights to policy makers on crafting appropriate policies that reduce rural‐urban income inequality in India.

Originality/value

The contribution of this paper is lies in extending the literature in the context of India towards an extensively researched area of rural‐urban divide but in time series framework and utilization of a better approach of time series approach, i.e. ARDL. Specifically, to the best of the authors' knowledge, this is the first empirical study to test poverty‐finance nexus using the basic principles of the GJ hypothesis and provide evidence of short‐ and long‐run dynamics on the postulated relation for India.
The role of public libraries in culture‐led urban regeneration
Authors: Skot‐Hansen Dorte , Hvenegaard Rasmussen Casper , Jochumsen Henrik
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to present a research project on public libraries in urban development focusing on how libraries contribute to culture‐led urban regeneration as icons, placemakers and community vitalization.

Design/methodology/approach

The research project is based on case studies of new “cutting‐edge” public libraries in Europe and North America. These case studies have been conducted through analysis of documents, observation and qualitative interviews with key informants.

Findings

The article finds that new public libraries have re‐conceptualized their design, brand and functions as an answer to strategies of culture‐led urban regeneration, and at the same time they have actively contributed to urban development by changing the image and identity of urban places, contributing to urban diversity and addressing social and economic problems.

Practical implications

The article provides a framework for development of strategies and legitimization for public libraries and a point of departure for the discussion of the library's contribution to urban development.

Originality/value

This is the first public presentation of the findings of the results of the research project Public Libraries in Urban Development – Creativity, Innovation and Experience outside the Nordic countries.
Measuring the competitiveness of a firm for an award system
Authors: Cetindamar Dilek , Kilitcioglu Hakan
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Competition is of interest to both policy makers and managers. However, existing studies concentrate on the measurement of national competitiveness while neglecting firm competitiveness. The purpose of this paper is to fill this gap by developing a comprehensive and generic measurement model to understand firm competitiveness. The model is used to develop an award system to help companies in the self‐assessment of their competitiveness.

Design/methodology/approach

The theoretical base of the measurement of firm level competitiveness is driven from two national competitiveness models, namely World Competitive Yearbook and Global Competitiveness Index, while the assessment structure is based on the well‐known European Foundation for Quality Management Excellence Award. The competitiveness model developed in this paper is put into use in Turkey. The measures of the model are used for assessing the competitiveness of ten firms, in order to choose the most competitive firm of the year. The study in Turkey explains how the measurement model works by illustrating an example.

Findings

This paper attempts to develop a generic model in which the competition parameters do not change for individual companies. The model covers a wide variety of parameters that form the base of competition at the firm level. It is demonstrated that the competition model developed in the paper works in practice.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the national competitiveness by providing deeper understanding of the dynamics of firm‐level competitiveness and provides some implications and suggestions for further studies.
Intellectual capital accounting in action: enhancing learning through interventionist research
Authors: Serena Chiucchi Maria
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The aim of this paper is to contribute to understanding how measuring intellectual capital (IC) can favor IC mobilization, examining the role of actors who design and implement the system in influencing managers’ IC learning processes and their take up of IC management practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A constructive case study, in which the researcher was directly involved in measuring IC, is presented. Kolb's experiential learning theory model examines if and how the actors mobilized IC and how the researcher and controller influenced their learning process.

Findings

The paper shows that actors must complete an experiential learning cycle to mobilize IC. The controller's role is pivotal in promoting IC mobilization, provided he/she experiences a deep learning process and he/she moves from “IC counting” to “IC accounting.” The paper also highlights how research intervention contributes to IC mobilization by influencing the actors’ learning process.

Research limitations/implications

The paper is limited to one Italian company, so the results cannot be generalized; they were influenced by the researcher's “strong” interventionist approach and by the model adopted.

Practical implications

Companies introducing IC will become aware of barriers and levers to measuring and mobilizing IC, thus enabling them to devise strategies to avoid the former and take advantage of the latter.

Originality/value

The experiential learning theory model offers an alternative way of understanding how IC measurement produces effects and how the controller and researcher can influence the managers’ IC learning journey thus contributing to mobilization of IC.
Evaluation of medical students' attitudes towards people with intellectual disabilities: a naturalistic study in one medical school
Authors: Sinai Amanda , Strydom Andre , Hassiotis Angela
Published: January 2013

Purpose

It is increasingly recognised that people with intellectual disabilities have poorer access to health care. One of the recommendations from the independent report, Healthcare for All is compulsory undergraduate medical teaching about people with intellectual disabilities. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the attitudes of medical students towards people with intellectual disabilities. The authors hypothesised that knowledge and attitude will change over the course of a 14‐week Neurosciences block, which included a taught intellectual disabilities module and opportunity to undertake a clinical placement.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a naturalistic prospective study in a London university. Data were collected at the beginning and the end of each of the three 14‐week Neurosciences blocks during the year. Attitude was measured using a self‐report questionnaire, including an amended short form of the Community Living Attitudes Scale (CLAS), administered in hard and e‐copy.

Findings

In total 136 medical students (35 per cent response rate) completed the questionnaire at the beginning and 133 (34 per cent response rate) at the end of the block. By the end of the block, students had increased knowledge of the definition of intellectual disability. Medical students showed generally favourable attitudes towards people with intellectual disabilities but there was no significant change in attitude between the start and end of the block.

Originality/value

This study shows that didactic teaching and limited exposure to people with intellectual disabilities, although it increases knowledge, is not enough to affect the kind of changes required to improve attitude. Increased face to face contact with people with intellectual disabilities and other innovative teaching methods are more likely to influence attitude in future medical practitioners. These will require further evaluation.
Water and CO2 permeability of SsAqpZ, the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC7942 aquaporin
Authors: Ding Xiaodong , Matsumoto Tadashi , Gena Patrizia , Liu Chengwei , Pellegrini‐Calace Marialuisa , Zhong Shihua , Sun Xiaoli , Zhu Yanming , Katsuhara Maki , Iwasaki Ikuko , Kitagawa Yoshichika , Calamita Giuseppe
Published: January 2013

Background information

Cyanobacteria possess Aquaporin‐Z (AqpZ) membrane channels which have been suggested to mediate the water efflux underlying osmostress‐inducible gene expression and to be essential for glucose metabolism under photomixotrophic growth. However, preliminary observations suggest that the biophy‐sical properties of transport and physiological meaning of AqpZ in such photosynthetic microorganisms are not yet completely assessed.

Results

In this study, we used Xenopus laevis oocyte and proteoliposome systems to directly demonstrate the water permeability of the cyanobacterium Synechococcus sp. PCC7942 aquaporin, SsAqpZ. By an in vitro assay of intracellular acidification in yeast cells, SsAqpZ was found to transport also CO2. Consistent with this result, during the entire exponential phase of growth, Synechococcus SsAqpZ‐null‐mutant cells grew slower than the corresponding wild‐type cells. This phenotype was stronger with higher levels of extracellular CO2. In line with the conversion of CO2 gas into HCO3− ions under alkaline conditions, the impairment in growth of the SsAqpZ‐null strain was weaker in more alkaline culture medium.

Conclusions

Cyanobacterial SsAqpZ may exert a pleiotropic function in addition to the already reported roles in macronutrient homeostasis and osmotic‐stress response as it appears to constitute an important pathway in CO2 uptake, a fundamental step in photosynthesis.
Anti‐angiogenic and anti‐tumor effects of TAK‐593, a potent and selective inhibitor of vascular endothelial growth factor and platelet‐derived growth factor receptor tyrosine kinase
Authors: Awazu Yoshiko , Mizutani Akio , Nagase Yoshinori , Tsuchiya Shuntarou , Nakamura Kazuhide , Kakoi Yuichi , Kitahara Osamu , Takeuchi Toshiyuki , Yamasaki Seiji , Miyamoto Naoki , Iwata Hidehisa , Miki Hiroshi , Imamura Shinichi , Hori Akira
Published: January 2013

We recently reported that TAK‐593, a novel imidazo[1,2‐b]pyridazine derivative, is a highly potent and selective inhibitor of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and platelet derived growth factor (PDGF) receptor tyrosine kinase families. Moreover, TAK‐593 exhibits a uniquely long‐acting inhibitory profile towards VEGF receptor 2 (VEGFR2) and PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ). In this study, we demonstrated that TAK‐593 potently inhibits VEGF‐ and PDGF‐stimulated cellular phosphorylation and proliferation of human umbilical vein endothelial cells and human coronary artery smooth muscle cells. TAK‐593 also potently inhibits VEGF‐induced tube formation of endothelial cells co‐cultured with fibroblasts. Oral administration of TAK‐593 exhibited strong anti‐tumor effects against various human cancer xenografts along with good tolerability despite a low level of plasma exposure. Even after the blood and tissue concentrations of TAK‐593 decreased below the detectable limit, a pharmacodynamic marker (phospho VEGFR2) was almost completely suppressed, indicating that its long duration of enzyme inhibition might contribute to the potent activity of TAK‐593. Immunohistochemical staining indicated that TAK‐593 showed anti‐proliferative and pro‐apoptotic effects on tumors along with a decrease of vessel density and inhibition of pericyte recruitment to microvessels in vivo. Furthermore, dynamic contrast‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging revealed that TAK‐593 reduced tumor vessel permeability prior to the onset of anti‐tumor activity. In conclusion, TAK‐593 is an extremely potent VEGFR/PDGFR kinase inhibitor whose potent anti‐angiogenic activity suggests therapeutic potential for the treatment of solid tumors.
Diagnostic nomenclature for foetal alcohol spectrum disorders: the continuing challenge of causality
Authors: Miller A. R.
Published: January 2013

Prenatal alcohol exposure is a risk factor for neurologically based cognitive and adaptive disability. Diagnostic nomenclature for prenatally exposed children with cognitive and adaptive disability who lack features for foetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) or partial FAS includes the terms alcohol‐related neurodevelopmental disorder (ARND) and foetal alcohol spectrum disorder(s) (FASD). Although these terms are now widely used, this paper argues that both are problematic. ARND is flawed by unjustifiably turning a risk factor into a causal factor and shrouding the result in terminological ambiguity, while FASD is not appropriate as a clinical label, and its use as a proxy for ARND deflects critical attention from the causal inferencing that is integral to diagnosing children with an alcohol‐related teratogenic condition. Existing nomenclature is at odds with logical and evidence‐based diagnosing and also has implications for interpretation of epidemiological data. Diagnostic nomenclature that is not tightly linked to causal inference is preferable at the present stage of this field's development.
Deconvolution‐based assessment of pituitaryGHsecretion stimulated withGHRH+arginine inPrader‐Willi adults and obese controls
Authors: Grugni Graziano , Marostica Eleonora , Crinò Antonino , Marzullo Paolo , De Nicolao Giuseppe , Sartorio Alessandro
Published: January 2013

Objective

The assessment ofGHdeficiency in adult patients with Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) has been previously assessed through the evaluation of quantitative parameters, such as the peak value ofGHresponse to exogenous stimuli. A comprehensive description of the pattern of secretory response obtainable by deconvolution analysis is still lacking. The aim of our study was to characterize the time evolution of responses ofPWSsubjects compared with obese controls.

Design and subjects

GHresponsiveness was measured following the combined administration ofGHRH+arginine to 65PWSadults (24 males, 41 females) aged 18–41·2 years, and 17 age‐, gender‐ and body mass index‐matched obese controls.PWSsubjects were analysed considering the stratification on different genotypes.

Measurements

GHresponse toGHRH+arginine was analysed in terms of peak values, standard area under the curves (AUCs),AUCs due to the stimulus,AUCs of the Instantaneous Secretion Rate signal and Secretion Response Analysis.

Results

In terms of both peak values andAUC,GHresponses were statistically different betweenPWS UPD15 andPWS DEL15 subjects as well as betweenPWS UPD15 and obese controls.PWSsubjects showed a lower and a more delayedGHresponse compared with obese controls. Moreover,PWS UPD15 subjects had the most delayedGHresponse.

Conclusions

Our findings demonstrate that impairedGHsecretion inPWSsubjects compared with obese controls regards not only amplitude parameters such as peak value andAUC, but also the shape of the secretory response, which is more delayed, especially forUPD15 subjects.
Long‐Term Evaluation of Immediately Loaded Implants in the Edentulous Mandible Using Fixed Bridges and Platform Shifting
Authors: Romanos Georgios E. , Gaertner Kathrin , Nentwig Georg H.
Published: January 2013

Background

The immediate loading concept has been extensively documented in the anterior part of the mandible when six primary stable implants are placed, splinted with a fixed prosthesis.

Purpose

The aim of this study was to evaluate the long‐term success of immediately occlusal loaded implants with a progressive thread design and platform shifting in the edentulous mandible.

Materials and Methods

Seventy‐eight implants placed in 13 patients and were connected with their abutments immediately after surgery. The implants were splinted using a fixed temporary restoration having occlusal contacts in the centric and group function in the lateral movements of the mandible (immediate occlusal loading). The patients were advised to use soft/liquid diet for the first 6 to 8 weeks of healing in order to reduce excessive loading in the bone‐to‐implant interface. Abutment level impressions were taken without removing the abutments in order to fabricate the final prostheses. The final restorations were delivered 4 to 8 weeks after surgery and cemented temporarily in order to evaluate the peri‐implant soft tissue condition at the different time intervals after removal of the restoration. Clinical stability and radiological indices were evaluated at the start of loading, at 3‐month interval after loading, and then annually.

Results

After a mean loading period of 75.29 (± 38.18) months, no implant was lost (100% success rate). All clinical indices had values in normal levels. The Periotest values demonstrated a continuous reduction, representing high stability. The crestal bone level was relatively stable and only minimal crestal bone loss was observed in some implants.

Conclusions

Long‐term success and stability of the peri‐implant tissues around immediately loaded mandibular implants are expected when implants with platform shifting are restored with bridges without abutment removal.
The immunohistochemical differential diagnosis of microcystic adnexal carcinoma, desmoplastic trichoepithelioma and morpheaform basal cell carcinoma using BerEP4 and stem cell markers
Authors: Sellheyer Klaus , Nelson Paula , Kutzner Heinz , Patel Rajiv M.
Published: January 2013

Background

Microcystic adnexal carcinoma (MAC), desmoplastic trichoepithelioma (DTE) and morpheaform basal cell carcinoma (BCC) frequently impose a considerable differential diagnostic challenge and immunohistochemistry is often used as a differentiating diagnostic adjunct.

Methods

Using standard immunohistochemical techniques, we examined 21 examples of DTE, 17 examples of morpheaform BCC and 10 examples of MAC for the expression of BerEP4, a marker of epithelial cells, and of three stem cell markers, pleckstrin homology‐like domain, family A, member 1 (PHLDA1) [T cell death‐associated gene 51 (TDAG51)], cytokeratin 15 (CK15) and cytokeratin (CK19).

Results

All but one MAC was negative for BerEP4 and all morpheaform BCC expressed BerEP4. Sixteen out of 21 DTE were immunoreactive for BerEP4. All 21 DTE were PHLDA1 positive and all 17 morpheaform BCC were PHLDA1 negative. MAC showed a mixed staining pattern for PHLDA1. CK15 was expressed in 20/21 DTE, whereas the majority of cases of MAC and morpheaform BCC were CK15 negative. CK19 stained more MAC than DTE and morpheaform BCC.

Conclusions

BerEP4 differentiates between MAC and morpheaform BCC but not between MAC and DTE whereas PHLDA1 differentiates between DTE and morpheaform BCC but shows variable staining in MAC. CK15 and CK19 are helpful adjuncts in the differential diagnosis of sclerosing adnexal neoplasms but are second in line to BerEP4 and PHLDA1. We propose an algorithm for the immunohistochemical work‐up of sclerosing adnexal neoplasms.
Endemism in host–parasite interactions among island populations of an endangered species
Authors: Harris Nyeema C. , Coonan Timothy J. , King Julie L. , Dunn Robert R.
Published: January 2013

Aim

Implicit in conserving interactions is the idea that species behave differently throughout their range, resulting in functionally dissimilar populations of the same species. Host–parasite interactions are a useful system to explore the pervasiveness of these ecological phenotypes. Here, we investigated whether the role of an endangered, endemic species to provide habitat for ectoparasites varies throughout the geographic distribution of the host.

Location

Channel Islands, California.

Methods

We captured island foxes (Urocyon littoralis sp.) from three populations: Santa Catalina (n = 72), Santa Rosa (n = 79) and San Miguel (n = 83). We compared the extent to which variation in parasite attributes were due to differences among individuals or populations. As a measure of the latter, we used discriminant function analysis to determine whether individuals from the same population ‘cluster’ together when comparing patterns of intensity in various ectoparasites.

Results

We identified eight ectoparasite species that included at least six new parasite records for island foxes. We found that ectoparasite attributes including diversity and intensity varied among host populations. More importantly, we show that knowing the parasite composition of the host can identify its population of origin, due to unique host–parasite interactions. Overall, we correctly ‘assigned’ 72% of island foxes to their actual, respective populations, although there were inconsistencies among populations.

Main conclusions

If foxes generally have the same parasite assemblage regardless of their respective populations, then conservation of a single population likely maintains all necessary species interactions and discriminate function analysis is uninformative in discerning population assignments of individuals. Our findings highlight the importance of conserving populations to maintain endemic interactions and caution against extrapolating the ecology (i.e. known species associations) of a species to other locations within their range.
Assessing the robustness of networks of spatial genetic variation
Authors: Albert Eva M. , Fortuna Miguel A. , Godoy José A. , Bascompte Jordi
Published: January 2013

Habitat transformation is one of the leading drivers of biodiversity loss. The ecological effects of this transformation have mainly been addressed at the demographic level, for example, finding extinction thresholds. However, interpopulation genetic variability and the subsequent potential for adaptation can be eroded before effects are noticed on species abundances. To what degree this is the case has been difficult to evaluate, partly because of the lack of both spatially extended genetic data and an appropriate framework to map and analyse such data. Here, we extend recent work on the analysis of networks of spatial genetic variation to address the robustness of these networks in the face of perturbations. We illustrate the potential of this framework using the case study of an amphibian metapopulation. Our results show that while the disappearance of some spatial sites barely changes the modular structure of the genetic network, other sites have a much stronger effect. Interestingly, these consequences can not be anticipated using topological, static measures. Mapping these networks of spatial genetic variation will allow identifying significant evolutionary units and how they vanish, merge and reorganise following perturbations.
One goal, different strategies – molecular and cellular approaches for the treatment of inherited skin fragility disorders
Authors: Hünefeld Christian , Mezger Markus , Kern Johannes S. , Nyström Alexander , Bruckner‐Tuderman Leena , Müller Ingo , Handgretinger Rupert , Röcken Martin
Published: January 2013

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a heterogeneous group of inherited diseases characterized by the formation of blisters in the skin and mucosa. There is no cure or effective treatment for these potentially severe and fatal diseases. Over the past few years, several reports have proposed different molecular strategies as new therapeutic options for the management of EB. From classical vector‐based gene therapy to cell‐based strategies such as systemic application of bone marrow stem cells or local application of fibroblasts, a broad range of molecular approaches have been explored. This array also includes novel methods, such as protein replacement therapy, gene silencing and the use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPCs). In this review, we summarize current concepts of how inherited blistering diseases might be treated in the future and discuss the opportunities, promises, concerns and risks of these innovative approaches.
Climate influences the global distribution of sea turtle nesting
Authors: Pike David A.
Published: January 2013

Aim

To understand whether climate limits current sea turtle nesting distributions and shapes the ecological niche of the terrestrial life‐history stage of these wide‐ranging marine vertebrates.

Location

Coastlines world‐wide.

Methods

I predicted the spatial distributions of nesting habitat under current climatic conditions for seven sea turtle species using information criteria and maximum entropy modelling. I also compared niche similarity among species using three niche metrics: I, Schoener's D and relative rank.

Results

Sea turtles currently nest across their entire bioclimatic envelopes, with up to six species predicted to nest on a single beach. The Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico and Australasia support high nesting diversity, with most regional areas supporting three to five species. Despite large overlap in nesting distributions among species, loggerhead and green turtles have the broadest environmental niches, while Kemp's ridley and flatback turtles have very narrow niches.

Main conclusions

The terrestrial nesting habitat of sea turtles is characterized by distinct climatic conditions, which are linked to the physical conditions necessary for eggs to hatch successfully and allow hatchlings to disperse from natal areas. Despite broad geographic patterns of overlap and similar embryonic tolerances to temperature and moisture among species, sea turtles partition habitat by nesting in different niche spaces. The tight link between current geographic patterns of nesting and climate, along with the dependence of developing embryos on nest microclimate, imply that regional or global changes in environmental conditions could differentially influence the distribution of sea turtle species under climate change. This could influence the adaptive potential of different populations, and predicting these responses before they occur will be important in mitigating the effects of climate change.
Radical Moral Imagination: Courage, Hope, and Articulation
Authors: Biss Mavis
Published: January 2013

This paper develops the basis for a new account of radical moral imagination, understood as the transformation of moral understandings through creative response to the sensed inadequacy of one's moral concepts or morally significant appraisals of lived experience. Against Miranda Fricker, I argue that this kind of transition from moral perplexity to increased moral insight is not primarily a matter of the “top‐down” use of concepts. Against Susan Babbitt, I argue that it is not primarily a matter of “bottom‐up” intuitive responsiveness to experience. Beyond courage and hope, radical moral imagination involves the articulation of inchoate experience, which allows individuals to make new kinds of moral moves and to lay claim to others' acknowledgment of the meaning of these moves.
Keratins and lipids in ethnic hair
Authors: Cruz C. F. , Fernandes M. M. , Gomes A. C. , Coderch L. , Martí M. , Méndez S. , Gales L. , Azoia N. G. , Shimanovich U. , Cavaco‐Paulo A.
Published: January 2013

Synopsis

Human hair has an important and undeniable relevance in society due to its important role in visual appearance and social communication. Hair is mainly composed of structural proteins, mainly keratin and keratin associated proteins and lipids. Herein, we report a comprehensive study of the content and distribution of the lipids among ethnic hair, African, Asian and Caucasian hair. More interestingly, we also report the study of the interaction between those two main components of hair, specifically, the influence of the hair internal lipids in the structure of the hair keratin. This was achieved by the use of a complete set of analytical tools, such as thin layer chromatography‐flame ionization detector, X‐ray analysis, molecular dynamics simulation and confocal microscopy. The experimental results indicated different amounts of lipids on ethnic hair compositions and higher percentage of hair internal lipids in African hair. In this type of hair, the axial diffraction of keratin was not observed in X‐ray analysis, but after hair lipids removal, the keratin returned to its typical packing arrangement. In molecular dynamic simulation, lipids were shown to intercalate dimers of keratin, changing its structure. From those results, we assume that keratin structure may be influenced by higher concentration of lipids in African hair.
Identifying the perceived training needs for Australian pharmacist prescribers
Authors: Hoti Kreshnik , Hughes Jeffery , Sunderland Bruce
Published: January 2013

Objective

To explore pharmacists’ perceived needs on training required to undertake an expanded prescribing role taking account of their years of registration, current professional practice area and preferred prescribing model.

Methods

A piloted self-administered questionnaire was distributed nationally to a random sample of pharmacists. Data were analysed using SPSS version18 software where data cross-tabulations, chi-squared and one-way analyses of variance were performed.

Key findings

A response rate of 40.4% (1049/2592) was achieved. Pathophysiology of conditions, principles of diagnosis, and patient assessment and monitoring were the most preferred training topics. There was no difference (P = 0.620) in pharmacists’ perceived needs for additional training with respect to the model of prescribing (i.e. supplementary or independent or both) and years of registration as pharmacists (P = 0.284). However, consultant pharmacists were less supportive of the need for additional training (P = 0.013). Pharmacists’ years of registration and professional practice influenced their training topic preferences. Supporters of an independent prescribing model only demonstrated a weaker preference for training in key therapeutic topics (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

This study provides information on key areas for consideration when training pharmacists for an expanded prescribing role. Although most pharmacists preferred a supplementary model of prescribing where doctors retain their diagnostic role, their strongest training preferences were for topics that provided pharmacists with further skills in patient diagnosis, assessment and monitoring.
Experimental evaluation of an electromechanical artificial urinary sphincter in an animal model
Authors: Valerio Massimo , Jichlinski Patrice , Dahlem Roland , Tozzi Piergiorgio , Mundy Anthony R.
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The AMS 800 urinary control system is the gold standard for the treatment of urinary incontinence due to sphincter insufficiency. Despite excellent functional outcome and latest technological improvements, the revision rate remains significant.

To overcome the shortcomings of the current device, we developed a modern electromechanical artificial urinary sphincter. The results demonstrated that this new sphincter is effective and well tolerated up to 3 months. This preliminary study represents a first step in the clinical application of novel technologies and an alternative compression mechanism to the urethra.

Objectives

To evaluate the effectiveness in continence achievement of a new electromechanical artificial urinary sphincter (emAUS) in an animal model.

To assess urethral response and animal general response to short‐term and mid‐term activation of the emAUS.

Materials and Methods

The principle of the emAUS is electromechanical induction of alternating compression of successive segments of the urethra by a series of cuffs activated by artificial muscles. Between February 2009 and May 2010 the emAUS was implanted in 17 sheep divided into three groups.

The first phase aimed to measure bladder leak point pressure during the activation of the device.

The second and third phases aimed to assess tissue response to the presence of the device after 2–9 weeks and after 3 months respectively. Histopathological and immunohistochemistry evaluation of the urethra was performed.

Results

Bladder leak point pressure was measured at levels between 1091 ± 30.6 cmH2O and 1244.1 ± 99 cmH2O (mean ± standard deviation) depending on the number of cuffs used.

At gross examination, the explanted urethra showed no sign of infection, atrophy or stricture.

On microscopic examination no significant difference in structure was found between urethral structure surrounded by a cuff and control urethra. In the peripheral tissues, the implanted material elicited a chronic foreign body reaction. Apart from one case, specimens did not show significant presence of lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leucocytes, necrosis or cell degeneration.

Immunohistochemistry confirmed the absence of macrophages in the samples.

Conclusions

This animal study shows that the emAUS can provide continence.

This new electronic controlled sequential alternating compression mechanism can avoid damage to urethral vascularity, at least up to 3 months after implantation.

After this positive proof of concept, long‐term studies are needed before clinical application could be considered.
Risk factors for different phenotypes of hypospadias: results from a Dutch case–control study
Authors: van Rooij Iris A.L.M. , van der Zanden Loes F.M. , Brouwers Marijn M. , Knoers Nine V.A.M. , Feitz Wout F.J. , Roeleveld Nel
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

The various phenotypes of hypospadias may result from disturbances of dissimilar embryonic processes in different time windows, suggesting aetiological heterogeneity; however, only a few studies have investigated the risk factors for the different hypospadias phenotypes.

The study confirmed that genetic predisposition possibly plays a role in anterior and middle hypospadias, as shown by the large effect estimates for familial occurrence of these forms of hypospadias. By contrast, the posterior phenotype was more often associated with pregnancy‐related factors, such as primiparity, preterm delivery, and being small for gestational age. New findings were that hormone‐containing contraceptive use after conception increased the risk of middle and posterior hypospadias, while multiple pregnancies were associated with the posterior form in particular.

Objective

To identify specific risk factors for different phenotypes of hypospadias that may arise as a result of dissimilar embryonic processes in different time windows.

Patients and Methods

A total of 405 hypospadias cases and 627 male controls were included in a Dutch case–control study.

Medical records of cases were reviewed to determine the anatomical location of the urethral opening, while demographic, lifestyle and pregnancy‐related risk factor data were obtained from self‐administered questionnaires.

Multivariable and multinomial logistic regression analyses were used to calculate effect estimates for the group containing all cases of hypospadias and for the different hypospadias phenotypes.

Results

Cases were subdivided into anterior (glandular and coronal; 59%), middle (penile; 29%) and posterior (penoscrotal, scrotal and perineal; 12%) hypospadias.

Being a twin/triplet, primiparity, preterm delivery, and being small for gestational age were associated with hypospadias, particularly in posterior cases.

Family history of hypospadias increased the risk of hypospadias, an effect that seemed to be more predominant in anterior and middle forms.

Maternal obesity seemed to increase the risk of hypospadias in general, and hormone‐containing contraceptive use during pregnancy especially increased the risk of middle and posterior hypospadias.

Conclusions

Our study provides some indications for aetiological heterogeneity of hypospadias, separating anterior and middle phenotypes from posterior hypospadias.

Future research should continue to try to establish which specific risk factors and mechanisms may differ according to hypospadias phenotype.
Reading as a hermeneutical endeavour: whole‐class approaches to teaching narrative with low‐attaining adolescent readers
Authors: Westbrook Jo
Published: January 2013

Teachers of reading in secondary schools know how important it is for low‐attaining readers to read whole narratives but time to do this in a crowded curriculum is limited and progress is more easily measured through reading smaller parts of texts. This paper reports on a longitudinal critical action research project in which three English teachers in two different urban secondary schools in the south of England read whole complex narratives with their classes of average and low‐attaining Year 8 students (12‐ to 13‐year‐olds) with their practice newly theorised by hermeneutics and intertextuality. These theoretical approaches encouraged the teachers to situate the texts in relation to other related texts that supported students in making inferential links. Moreover, teacher pedagogic discourse became newly focused on text structure and coherence as the whole class read the text together and rapidly to the end with pleasure and understanding. The long‐term impact of the action research suggests that such a theorised approach can influence teachers’ practice at a deep and sustainable level and in one school led to the introduction of a daily reading lesson where students read whole narratives they selected themselves, raising their reading ages and creating a reading culture.