bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of the senescence-associated secretory phenotype by NF-κB promotes senescence and enhances chemosensitivity
Authors: Chien Yuchen , Scuoppo Claudio , Wang Xiaowo , Fang Xueping , Balgley Brian , Bolden Jessica E. , Premsrirut Prem , Luo Weijun , Chicas Agustin , Lee Cheng S. , Kogan Scott C. , Lowe Scott W.
Published: October 2011

Cellular senescence acts as a potent barrier to tumorigenesis and contributes to the anti-tumor activity of certain chemotherapeutic agents. Senescent cells undergo a stable cell cycle arrest controlled by RB and p53 and, in addition, display a senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP) involving the production of factors that reinforce the senescence arrest, alter the microenvironment, and trigger immune surveillance of the senescent cells. Through a proteomics analysis of senescent chromatin, we identified the nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) subunit p65 as a major transcription factor that accumulates on chromatin of senescent cells. We found that NF-κB acts as a master regulator of the SASP, influencing the expression of more genes than RB and p53 combined. In cultured fibroblasts, NF-κB suppression causes escape from immune recognition by natural killer (NK) cells and cooperates with p53 inactivation to bypass senescence. In a mouse lymphoma model, NF-κB inhibition bypasses treatment-induced senescence, producing drug resistance, early relapse, and reduced survival. Our results demonstrate that NF-κB controls both cell-autonomous and non-cell-autonomous aspects of the senescence program and identify a tumor-suppressive function of NF-κB that contributes to the outcome of cancer therapy.
Mediator coordinates PIC assembly with recruitment of CHD1
Authors: Lin Justin J. , Lehmann Lynn W. , Bonora Giancarlo , Sridharan Rupa , Vashisht Ajay A. , Tran Nancy , Plath Kathrin , Wohlschlegel James A. , Carey Michael
Published: October 2011

Murine Chd1 (chromodomain helicase DNA-binding protein 1), a chromodomain-containing chromatin remodeling protein, is necessary for embryonic stem (ES) cell pluripotency. Chd1 binds to nucleosomes trimethylated at histone 3 Lys 4 (H3K4me3) near the beginning of active genes but not to bivalent domains also containing H3K27me3. To address the mechanism of this specificity, we reproduced H3K4me3- and CHD1-stimulated gene activation in HeLa extracts. Multidimensional protein identification technology (MuDPIT) and immunoblot analyses of purified preinitiation complexes (PICs) revealed the recruitment of CHD1 to naive chromatin but enhancement on H3K4me3 chromatin. Studies in depleted extracts showed that the Mediator coactivator complex, which controls PIC assembly, is also necessary for CHD1 recruitment. MuDPIT analyses of CHD1-associated proteins support the recruitment data and reveal numerous components of the PIC, including Mediator. In vivo, CHD1 and Mediator are recruited to an inducible gene, and genome-wide binding of the two proteins correlates well with active gene transcription in mouse ES cells. Finally, coimmunoprecipitation of CHD1 and Mediator from cell extracts can be ablated by shRNA knockdown of a specific Mediator subunit. Our data support a model in which the Mediator coordinates PIC assembly along with the recruitment of CHD1. The combined action of the PIC and H3K4me3 provides specificity in targeting CHD1 to active genes.
Polyamines Interact with Hydroxyl Radicals in Activating Ca2+ and K+ Transport across the Root Epidermal Plasma Membranes
Authors: Zepeda-Jazo Isaac , Velarde-Buendía Ana María , Enríquez-Figueroa René , Bose Jayakumar , Shabala Sergey , Muñiz-Murguía Jesús , Pottosin Igor I.
Published: October 2011

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are integral components of the plant adaptive responses to environment. Importantly, ROS affect the intracellular Ca2+ dynamics by activating a range of nonselective Ca2+-permeable channels in plasma membrane (PM). Using patch-clamp and noninvasive microelectrode ion flux measuring techniques, we have characterized ionic currents and net K+ and Ca2+ fluxes induced by hydroxyl radicals (OH•) in pea (Pisum sativum) roots. OH•, but not hydrogen peroxide, activated a rapid Ca2+ efflux and a more slowly developing net Ca2+ influx concurrent with a net K+ efflux. In isolated protoplasts, OH• evoked a nonselective current, with a time course and a steady-state magnitude similar to those for a K+ efflux in intact roots. This current displayed a low ionic selectivity and was permeable to Ca2+. Active OH•-induced Ca2+ efflux in roots was suppressed by the PM Ca2+ pump inhibitors eosine yellow and erythrosine B. The cation channel blockers gadolinium, nifedipine, and verapamil and the anionic channel blockers 5-nitro-2(3-phenylpropylamino)-benzoate and niflumate inhibited OH•-induced ionic currents in root protoplasts and K+ efflux and Ca2+ influx in roots. Contrary to expectations, polyamines (PAs) did not inhibit the OH•-induced cation fluxes. The net OH•-induced Ca2+ efflux was largely prolonged in the presence of spermine, and all PAs tested (spermine, spermidine, and putrescine) accelerated and augmented the OH•-induced net K+ efflux from roots. The latter effect was also observed in patch-clamp experiments on root protoplasts. We conclude that PAs interact with ROS to alter intracellular Ca2+ homeostasis by modulating both Ca2+ influx and efflux transport systems at the root cell PM.
The effects of multiple stressors on wetland communities: pesticides, pathogens and competing amphibians
Authors: BUCK JULIA C. , SCHEESSELE ERIN A. , RELYEA RICK A. , BLAUSTEIN ANDREW R.
Published: October 2011

1. Anthropogenic effects have propelled us into what many have described as the sixth mass extinction, and amphibians are among the most affected groups. The causes of global amphibian population declines and extinctions are varied, complex and context‐dependent and may involve multiple stressors. However, experimental studies examining multiple factors contributing to amphibian population declines are rare.

2. Using outdoor mesocosms containing zooplankton, phytoplankton, periphyton and tadpoles, we conducted a 2 × 2 × 3 factorial experiment that examined the separate and combined effects of an insecticide and the fungal pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) on three different assemblages of larval pacific treefrogs (Pseudacris regilla) and Cascades frogs (Rana cascadae).

3. Larval amphibian growth and development were affected by carbaryl and the amphibian assemblage treatment, but only minimally by Bd. Carbaryl delayed metamorphosis in both amphibian species and increased the growth rate of P. regilla. Carbaryl also reduced cladoceran abundance, which, in turn, had positive effects on phytoplankton abundance but no effect on periphyton biomass. Substituting 20 intraspecific competitors with 20 interspecific competitors decreased the larval period but not the growth rate of P. regilla. In contrast, substituting 20 intraspecific competitors with 20 interspecific competitors had no effect on R. cascadae. Results of real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) analysis confirmed infection of Bd‐exposed animals, but exposure to Bd had no effects on either species in univariate analyses, although it had significant or nearly significant effects in several multivariate analyses. In short, we found no interactive effects among the treatments on amphibian growth and development.

4. We encourage future research on the interactive effects of pesticides and pathogens on amphibian communities.
Maternal Care Received by Individual Pups Correlates with Adult CA1 Dendritic Morphology and Synaptic Plasticity in a Sex‐Dependent Manner
Authors: van Hasselt F. N. , Boudewijns Z. S. R. M. , van der Knaap N. J. F. , Krugers H. J. , Joëls M.
Published: October 2011

Maternal care is an important environmental factor for rats early in life. Adult offspring from dams exhibiting extremely high versus low maternal care differ remarkably in dendritic complexity and long‐term synaptic potentiation in the CA1 area. However, > 70% of the pups do not belong to these extreme categories of maternal care, questioning the general relevance of these observations. Therefore, the present study investigated whether the influence of maternal care is discernable over its entire range and can serve as an index predicting later CA1 structure and function. The amount of licking and grooming (%LG) received was determined for each pup during the first postnatal week. In males, both total apical branch length and dendritic complexity correlated significantly and positively with %LG. In females, we observed a nonsignificant negative correlation, also when controlled for variations in oestradiol and progesterone levels. The correlation in females was significantly different from that in males. No significant correlation was observed between the %LG and the amount of synaptic potentiation, either in male or in female offspring, regardless of whether slices had been treated with corticosterone or vehicle. However, in male rats, the degree of potentiation seen after corticosterone compared to vehicle treatment was almost significantly related to the %LG received early in life; this differed significantly from that observed in females. The data from the present study suggest that %LG received early in life results in mild, yet sex‐dependent effects on adult CA1 structure and function.
Daily life for young adults who care for a person with mental illness: a qualitative study
Authors: ALI L. , AHLSTRÖM B. H. , KREVERS B. , SKÄRSÄTER I.
Published: October 2011

Accessible summary

The burden of caring for a person with mental illness has been transferred to families and close friends.

Daily life for young informal carers is unpredictable and they need to stay alert and prepared for events beyond their control.

Young informal carers are concerned young adults who support a family member or friend unconditionally.

Supporting a friend is related to as a great a sense of individual responsibility as supporting a family member.

This study describes the daily life and management strategies of young informal carers of family members or friends with mental illness. Twelve young adults (three men and nine women; 16–25 years old) in Sweden were voluntarily recruited between February and May 2008. Data collected through eight individual semi‐structured interviews and one focus group interview were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The findings revealed nine subthemes that were further grouped into three main themes: showing concern, providing support and using management strategies. Participants lived in constant readiness for something unexpected to happen to the person they cared for, and their role in the relationship could change quickly from family member or friend to guardian or supervisor. Supporting a friend was considered as large a personal responsibility as supporting a family member. Their management strategies were based on individual capacities and their ability to step aside should the situation become too demanding. These young informal carers need support in caring for the mentally ill. As the internet becomes increasingly fundamental to daily life, support could be provided most effectively through person‐centred web sites.
Parents reported oral sensory sensitivity processing and food preference in ADHD
Authors: GHANIZADEH A.
Published: October 2011

Accessible summary

Oral sensory overresponsivity is frequently seen in attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) children with oppositional behaviours.

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder children with oppositional behaviours are more likely to adhere to the same foods.

Food preferences in ADHD children co‐morbid with oppositional behaviour are more common than in those without oppositional behaviours.

Children with both ADHD and oppositional behaviours are less likely to try new food and have limited repertoire of foods. Behavioural and food recommendation for children with ADHD should consider their co‐morbid behaviours.

Oral sensory processing in children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is an area with limited research. Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and separation anxiety disorder (SAD) symptoms usually co‐occur with ADHD. This study investigates the association of oral sensory processing problems with ODD and SAD symptoms in children with ADHD. The parents of 189 children with ADHD completed Oral Over‐ and Underresponsivity Behaviors Inventory reporting oral overresponsivity (OR) and underresponsivity (UR) of their children. Only ODD score predicted OR scale score. None of ADHD severity, anxiety score, age and gender predicted OR score. UR scale score was only predicted by SAD and inattention scores. ODD score and hyperactivity/impulsivity score did not predict UR score. The ODD behaviour in children with ADHD needs to be evaluated and managed more extensively and it should include oral sensory occupational therapy. Future studies should extend this research to children with ADHD and obesity and food reward system.
The unified approach to the use of genomic and pedigree information in genomic evaluations revisited
Authors: Meuwissen T.H.E. , Luan T. , Woolliams J.A.
Published: October 2011

Previous proposals for a unified approach for amalgamating information from animals with or without genotypes have combined the numerator relationship matrix A with the genomic relationship G estimated from the markers. These approaches have resulted in biased genomic EBV (GEBV), and methodology was developed to overcome these problems. Firstly, a relationship matrix, GFG, based on linkage analysis was derived using the same base population as A, which (i) utilizes the genomic information on the same scale as the pedigree information and (ii) permits the regression coefficients used to propagate the genomic data from the genotyped to ungenotyped individuals to be calculated in the light of the genomic information, rather than ignoring it. Secondly, the elements of G were regressed back towards their expected values in the A matrix to allow for their estimation errors. These developments were combined in a methodology LDLAb and tested on simulated populations where either parents were phenotyped and offspring genotyped or vice versa. The LDLAb method was demonstrated to be a unified approach that maximized accuracy of GEBV compared to previous methodologies and removed the bias in the GEBV. Although LDLAb is computationally much more demanding than MLAC, it demonstrates how to make best use the marker information and also shows the computational problems that need to be solved in the future to make best use of the marker data.
Progressive nonfluent aphasia: A rare clinical subtype of FTLD‐TDP in Japan
Authors: Aoki Naoya , Tsuchiya Kuniaki , Kobayashi Zen , Arai Tetsuaki , Togo Takashi , Miyazaki Hiroshi , Kondo Hiromi , Ishizu Hideki , Uchikado Hirotake , Katsuse Omi , Hirayasu Yoshio , Akiyama Haruhiko
Published: October 2011

Progressive nonfluent aphasia (PNFA) is a clinical subtype of frontotemporal lobar degeneration (FTLD). FTLD with tau accumulation (FTLD‐tau) and FTLD with TDP‐43 accumulation (FTLD‐TDP) both cause PNFA. We reviewed clinical records of 29 FTLD‐TDP cases in the brain archive of our institute and found only one case of PNFA. The patient was an 81‐year‐old male at death. There was no family history of dementia or aphasia. He presented with slow, labored and nonfluent speech at age 75. Behavioral abnormality and movement disorders were absent. MRI at age 76 demonstrated atrophy of the perisylvian regions, including the inferior frontal gyrus, insular gyrus and superior temporal gyrus. The atrophy was more severe in the left hemisphere than the right. On post mortem examinations, neuronal loss was evident in these regions as well as in the substantia nigra. There were abundant TDP‐43‐immunoreactive neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions and round or irregular‐shaped structures in the affected cerebral cortices. A few dystrophic neurites and neuronal intranuclear inclusions were also seen. FTLD‐TDP showing PNFA seems to be rare but does exist in Japan, similar to that in other countries.
Body mass index, sexual difficulties and sexual satisfaction among people in regular heterosexual relationships: a population‐based study
Authors: Smith A. M. A. , Patrick K. , Heywood W. , Pitts M. K. , Richters J. , Shelley J. M. , Simpson J. M. , Ryall R.
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims:  The aims of this study were to clarify the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and sexual difficulties and to investigate if BMI influenced sexual satisfaction, over and above the effects of sexual difficulties.

Methods:  Cross‐sectional analyses of a nationally representative computer‐assisted telephone interview. Eight thousand, six hundred and fifty‐six respondents were recruited by random digit dialling in 2004–2005. Only those in a sexually active, heterosexual relationship were included in the current analyses.

Results:  After adjustments for demographic factors, both overweight and obese male and female participants were more likely to report worrying during sex about whether their body was unattractive. Among women, associations were also found between higher BMI and lack of interest in sex. No other significant associations between BMI and sexual difficulties were evident. There was an association between BMI and extreme physical pleasure for women but not men over and above the effects of sexual difficulties, with obese women being more likely than normal weight women to report extreme physical pleasure. No associations were found for either men or women between BMI and whether or not they reported extreme emotional or sexual satisfaction with their relationship.

Conclusions:  With the exception of body image difficulties, there is little association between BMI and self‐reported sexual difficulties. Furthermore, extreme sexual and emotional satisfaction appeared to be associated with the presence or absence of sexual difficulties and not overly influenced by BMI. Overall, clinicians and patients should be aware that being overweight is not necessarily detrimental to sexual functioning.
Cord blood transplantation in Western Australia
Authors: Purtill D. , Cooney J. , Cannell P. , Herrmann R. , Trimboli F. , Carter T. , Baker D. , Cole C.
Published: October 2011

Background/Aims:  Thirty‐one umbilical cord blood transplants performed in Western Australia were retrospectively examined in order to document local experience and relevant prognostic factors. Three cord units were from human leucocyte antigen‐matched siblings and the remainder were unrelated single (n= 22) or double (n= 6) cord blood transplants.

Methods:  Twenty patients were transplanted for malignant conditions and 11 for non‐malignant conditions. Cord units contained a median of 5.6 × 107 total nucleated cells/kg and 1.4 × 105 CD34+ cells/kg. Cumulative incidence of neutrophil engraftment was 76% at day 60.

Results:  Of those who did not engraft, two patients remain alive following subsequent allogeneic bone marrow transplant. There were no deaths caused by graft‐versus‐host disease. Overall survival at median follow up of 28 months was 62%. Two year overall survival was influenced by type of disease (non‐malignant = 91 ± 9% vs malignant = 41 ± 13%, P= 0.005), total nucleated cell dose (>3.5 × 107/kg = 87 ± 9% vs <3.5 × 107/kg = 34 ± 15%, P= 0.01) and CD34 dose (>1.7 × 105/kg = 92% vs <1.7 × 105/kg = 46%, P= 0.04). Age and human leucocyte antigen match did not influence survival. Four relapses occurred, all of which were fatal.

Conclusion:  Cord blood transplantation for malignant and non‐malignant disease is practised in Western Australia and outcomes are satisfactory. Trends and techniques in cord blood transplantation in this state are comparable with those observed nationally and overseas. Although numbers are small, cell dose appears to be predictive of overall survival.
Spontaneous conversion of first onset atrial fibrillation
Authors: Lindberg S. , Hansen S. , Nielsen T.
Published: October 2011

Background/Aim

We studied all patients admitted to hospital with first onset atrial fibrillation (AF) to determine the probability of spontaneous conversion to sinus rhythm and to identify factors predictive of such a conversion.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed charts of 438 consecutive patients admitted to hospital with first onset AF from 1 January 2006 to 31 December 2009. The patients were divided into two groups, recent onset AF defined as AF < 48 h or longer lasting AF, defined as AF > 48 h.

Results

Spontaneous conversion occurred in 54% (n = 203; 95% confidence interval: 49–59%). In the group with first onset AF < 48 h, spontaneous conversion occurred in 77%, compared with 36% in the group with first onset AF > 48 h. Logistic regression analysis identified duration of AF as a highly significant predictor of spontaneous conversion to sinus rhythm (odds ratio 5.9; 95% confidence interval: 4.0–8.6, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Spontaneous conversion occurred in 54%, increasing to 77% when AF had persisted less than 48 h.
Rural Victorian Telestroke project
Authors: Nagao K. J. , Koschel A. , Haines H. M. , Bolitho L. E. , Yan B.
Published: October 2011

Background

Intravenous thrombolysis improves functional outcomes in acute ischaemic stroke. However, many rural stroke patients are denied thrombolysis because of a rural neurologist shortage. ‘Telestroke’ facilitates thrombolysis by providing remote access to neurologists via videoconferencing systems.

Aims

To develop a safe and feasible Telestroke system in a rural Victorian hospital that facilitates delivery of intravenous thrombolysis to acute ischaemic stroke patients.

Methods

A pilot videoconferencing Telestroke system was set up between Royal Melbourne Hospital and Northeast Health Wangaratta. Acute stroke patients presenting within 4.5 h of symptom onset without intracranial haemorrhage were eligible for Telestroke. However, eligible patients were excluded from Telestroke if they had haemorrhagic risk factors. Data were collected from intervention (October 2009–September 2010) and control group (October 2008–September 2009) by medical file audit. Primary outcome measure was percentage of patients thrombolysed. Secondary outcome measures included incidence of symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhage and door‐to‐computed tomography time.

Results

One hundred and forty‐five acute stroke patients presented in control year and 130 patients in intervention year. Fifty‐four patients in intervention and 36 patients in control group were eligible for thrombolysis. In intervention group, 24 patients had Telestroke activated and 8 patients underwent thrombolysis. There was no thrombolysis in the control group. There were neither symptomatic intracerebral haemorrhages nor deaths attributable to thrombolysis. Median door‐to‐computed tomography time did not significantly differ between eligible patients in control and intervention groups.

Conclusion

Telestroke has the potential to bridge the gap of rural–metropolitan inequality in acute stroke care. Our Telestroke system successfully introduced safe thrombolysis and early specialist review of acute stroke patients in rural Victoria.
Social defeat stress induces hyperthermia through activation of thermoregulatory sympathetic premotor neurons in the medullary raphe region
Authors: Lkhagvasuren Battuvshin , Nakamura Yoshiko , Oka Takakazu , Sudo Nobuyuki , Nakamura Kazuhiro
Published: October 2011

Psychological stress‐induced hyperthermia is a fundamental autonomic response in mammals. However, the central circuitry underlying this stress response is poorly understood. Here, we sought to identify sympathetic premotor neurons that mediate a hyperthermic response to social defeat stress, a psychological stress model. Intruder rats that were defeated by a dominant resident conspecific exhibited a rapid increase in abdominal temperature by up to 2.0 °C. In these defeated rats, we found that expression of Fos, a marker of neuronal activation, was increased in the rostral medullary raphe region centered in the rostral raphe pallidus and adjacent raphe magnus nuclei. In this region, Fos expression was observed in a large population of neurons expressing vesicular glutamate transporter 3 (VGLUT3), which are known as sympathetic premotor neurons controlling non‐shivering thermogenesis in brown adipose tissue (BAT) and thermoregulatory constriction of skin blood vessels, and also in a small population of tryptophan hydroxylase‐positive serotonergic neurons. Intraperitoneal injection of diazepam, an anxiolytic agent, but not indomethacin, an antipyretic, significantly reduced both the stress‐induced hyperthermia and Fos expression in these medullary raphe neuronal populations. Systemic blockade of β3‐adrenoreceptors, which are abundantly expressed in BAT, also attenuated the stress‐induced hyperthermia. These results suggest that psychological stress signals activate VGLUT3‐expressing medullary raphe sympathetic premotor neurons, which then drive hyperthermic effector responses including BAT thermogenesis through β3‐adrenoreceptors.
Everted third eyelid cartilage in a cat: a case report and literature review
Authors: Williams David , Middleton Sheldon , Caldwell Adele
Published: October 2011

An 8‐year‐old neutered female British Blue cat was presented with a presumed diagnosis of a prolapsed nictitans gland and associated ocular irritation and epiphora. However, during surgery, the apparent nictitans gland protrusion was determined to be an everted cartilage of the nictitating membrane. The scrolled portion of the cartilage was removed through an incision through the conjunctiva on the bulbar aspect of the third eyelid, as previously described in the dog. This operation resolved the ocular irritation occurring, and the third eyelid returned to its anatomically correct position.
The impact of persuasive SMS on students' self‐regulated learning
Authors: Goh Tiong‐Thye , Seet Boon‐Chong , Chen Nian‐Shing
Published: October 2011

This paper presents the outcome of an experimental design to investigate the impact of persuasive short messaging service (SMS) on students' self‐regulated learning strategies while attending an introductory information systems course over a 12‐week trimester. The participants were undergraduate students enrolled in INFO 101 at a tertiary institution in New Zealand. The instrument used in this study was the original motivated strategies for learning questionnaires (MSLQ) developed by Pintrich. MSLQ measures three general types of strategies: cognitive, meta‐cognitive and resource management. The findings of the research identified that several aspects of students' learning strategies had been improved for the experiment group while the Time and Study Environment Management dimension of MSLQ had been significantly lowered for the control group who received no SMS intervention. The study demonstrates a positive impact of persuasive SMS on students' learning and suggests that the intervention is able to improve students' self‐regulated learning effort compared to the control group. Moreover the study shows that students who received SMS intervention performed better than students who did not receive SMS intervention. Most importantly, the study shows that SMS intervention enables Māori and Pacific students, who historically have a lower performance than the main cohort, to perform better than the main cohort and to a significant level higher than those Māori and Pacific students who did not receive any SMS intervention. This study suggests that practitioners should consider the adoption of the persuasive SMS intervention by using the principles of persuasive technology for sending SMS messages especially for the high risk students.

Practitioner Notes

What is already known about this topic

Persuasive technology is the adoption of computing technology in an attempt to change attitudes and behaviour.

This technology is widely used in the preventive health care industry and social organizations for their and social marketing campaigns.

What this paper adds

The study shows that students who received persuasive short messaging service (SMS) intervention performed better than students who did not receive any SMS intervention.

The study demonstrates a positive impact of persuasive SMS on students' learning and suggests that the intervention is able to improve students' self‐regulated learning effort.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Practitioners should consider the adoption of the persuasive SMS intervention.

Practitioners should adopt the seven principles of persuasive technology for sending SMS messages.

Practitioners should also target the persuasive SMS intervention to high risk students.
FACTORS INFLUENCING THE USE OF PERFORMANCE INFORMATION FOR DECISION MAKING IN AUSTRALIAN STATE AGENCIES
Authors: TAYLOR JEANNETTE
Published: October 2011

Is the state of a performance measurement system the most important element for promoting the utilization of performance indicators (PIs) in the public sector? Or are there other more influential factors, such as organizational culture, or even individual perceptions on the merit of performance measurement for their agency? Through a survey on a small group of managers specializing in performance measurement in 21 Australian state government agencies, this research examines the relative influence of the following factors on the use of PIs for internal decision making: the agency's performance measurement system, stakeholder support for the agency's performance measurement, organizational culture, the external environment, and individual perceptions on the impact of performance measurement in the agency.
The spatial transcript: analysing mobilities through qualitative GIS
Authors: Jones Phil , Evans James
Published: October 2011

This paper identifies a failure by mobilities scholars to engage with the methodological and analytical possibilities offered by qualitative GIS. We argue this represents a missed opportunity and present the spatial transcript, a technique we have developed in order to address this shortcoming. Qualitative GIS seeks to find ways to analyse how space shapes data, offering a useful way in to investigating the mobile body. The spatial transcript allows researchers to engage in a process of grounded visualisation in order to analyse interview data in the context of the location in which it was gathered. We conclude that this technique offers valuable insights into the ways that space and mobilities are co‐constructed.
Capital Versus Performance Covenants in Debt Contracts
Authors: CHRISTENSEN HANS B. , NIKOLAEV VALERI V.
Published: October 2011

Building on contract theory, we argue that financial covenants control the conflicts of interest between lenders and borrowers via two different mechanisms. Capital covenants control agency problems by aligning debt holder–shareholder interests. Performance covenants serve as trip wires that limit agency problems via the transfer of control to lenders in states where the value of their claim is at risk. Companies trade off these mechanisms. Capital covenants impose costly restrictions on the capital structure, while performance covenants require contractible accounting information to be available. Consistent with these arguments, we find that the use of performance covenants relative to capital covenants is positively associated with (1) the financial constraints of the borrower, (2) the extent to which accounting information portrays credit risk, (3) the likelihood of contract renegotiation, and (4) the presence of contractual restrictions on managerial actions. Our findings suggest that accounting‐based covenants can improve contracting efficiency in two different ways.
Dynamic colorimetric properties of mixed thermochromic printing inks
Authors: Kulčar Rahela , Friškovec Mojca , Gunde Marta Klanjšek , Knešaurek Nina
Published: October 2011

Leuco dye‐based thermochromic inks reversibly change from the coloured to the discoloured state in a defined, comparatively wide temperature region. Inside this region, the colour of a sample depends on the temperature and thermal history, which is known as the hysteresis effect. The colour of such a sample as a function of temperature has the shape of a hysteresis loop. Commercially available thermochromic inks have different loops, narrow or broad, and their shapes range from approximately symmetric to highly asymmetric. These properties are also important in mixtures of inks. The hysteresis loop of a mixture reveals its binary nature if the individual pure inks have well‐separated hysteresis. When inks with close‐separated loops, i.e. with similar activation temperatures, are mixed together, the loop of the mixture fuses together into an apparently single loop. Our research shows that some of their dynamic colour properties could be predicted in advance. However, optic and colorimetric properties of mixtures are not additive.
Newly qualified nurses experiences in the intensive care unit
Authors: O’Kane Catherine E
Published: October 2011

Aim: The aim of this research was to investigate newly qualified nurses (NQN) experiences of starting their career in the intensive care unit (ICU). The author also investigated the opinions of senior nurses from ICU in relation to NQN in ICU.

Background: Although not a new concept, NQN in ICU has little substantive research to support recruitment. There is a current demand to investigate this topic, because of retention of staff and a shortage of qualified nurses.

Method: This was a comparative, qualitative study using two forms of data collection. This study was conducted over two phases. Phase I, used semi‐structured interviews with eight NQN, with one participant for the pilot study. PHASE II used a focus group to interview seven senior nurses in ICU.

Findings: NQN experienced anxiety about time management, accountability and socialization. Senior nurses felt NQN coped well with the demanding aspects of ICU but were aware that preceptors are under a lot of pressure. They were concerned about NQN lack of hospital knowledge. The competency‐based practice highlighted the importance of record keeping and its associated legal implications.

Conclusion: NQN cope well with the complexity of ICU. Having student placements in this area seem to ease this transition and reduce some ‘reality shock’. They therefore seem better equipped to deal with the steep learning curve.
Effects of Prazosin, an α1‐Adrenergic Receptor Antagonist, on the Seeking and Intake of Alcohol and Sucrose in Alcohol‐Preferring (P) Rats
Authors: Verplaetse Terril L. , Rasmussen Dennis D. , Froehlich Janice C. , Czachowski Cristine L.
Published: October 2011

Background:  Previous studies show that prazosin, an α1‐adrenergic receptor antagonist, decreases alcohol drinking in animal models of alcohol use and dependence [Rasmussen et al. (2009) Alcohol Clin Exp Res 3:264–272; Walker et al. (2008) Alcohol 42:91–97] and in alcohol‐dependent men [Simpson et al. (2009) Alcohol Clin Exp Res 33:255–263]. This study extended these findings by using a paradigm that allows for separate assessment of prazosin on motivation to seek versus consume alcohol or sucrose in selectively bred rats.

Methods:  Alcohol‐preferring (P) rats were trained to complete an operant response that resulted in access to either 2% sucrose or 10% alcohol. A 4‐week Seeking Test Phase examined responding in single, weekly extinction sessions when no reinforcer could be obtained. A 4‐week Drinking Test Phase consisted of rats lever‐pressing to “pay” a specified amount up front to gain access to unlimited alcohol (or sucrose) for a 20‐minute period. On Seeking and Drinking test days, prazosin (0.0, 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5 mg/kg) was administered intraperitoneally 30 minutes prior to behavioral sessions.

Results:  Rats were self‐administering an average of 0.9 (±0.09) g/kg alcohol on vehicle test day and had pharmacologically relevant blood ethanol concentrations. Prazosin significantly decreased alcohol seeking at all doses tested. The highest dose of prazosin also increased the latency to first response for alcohol and decreased alcohol intake. While sucrose‐seeking and intake were similarly affected by prazosin, the high dose of prazosin did not increase response latency.

Conclusions:  These findings are consistent with and extend previous research and suggest that prazosin decreases motivation to initiate and engage in alcohol consumption. The specificity of prazosin in attenuating the initiation of alcohol‐ but not sucrose‐seeking suggests that this effect is not because of prazosin‐induced motor‐impairment or malaise. Together with previous findings, these data suggest that prazosin may be an effective pharmacotherapy, with specific application in people that drink excessively or have a genetic predisposition to alcohol abuse.
Alloimmunization to transfused platelets requires priming of CD4+ T cells in the splenic microenvironment in a murine model
Authors: Gilson Christopher R. , Zimring James C.
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND: Alloantibodies are a clinically significant sequelae of platelet (PLT) transfusion, potentially rendering patients refractory to ongoing PLT transfusion support. These antibodies are often IgG class switched, suggesting the involvement of CD4+ T‐cell help; however, PLT‐specific CD4+ T cells have not been visualized in vivo, and specifics of their stimulation are not completely understood.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: A murine model of alloimmunization to transfused PLTs was developed to allow in vivo assessment and characterization of CD4+ T cells specific for PLT major histocompatibility complex (MHC) alloantigen. PLTs were harvested from BALB/c mice, filter leukoreduced, and transfused into C57BL/6 recipients. PLT‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses were visualized by using a T‐cell receptor transgenic mouse that detects peptide from donor MHC I presented on recipient MHC II. Antibody responses were determined by indirect immunofluorescence using BALB/c donor targets.

RESULTS: C57BL/6 recipients of BALB/c leukoreduced PLT transfusions produced BALB/c antibodies, with proliferation of antigen‐specific CD4+ T cells seen in the spleen but not lymph nodes or liver. Depletion of recipient CD4+ cells or splenectomy independently abrogated the alloantibody response.

CONCLUSION: We report a novel model to study antigen‐specific CD4+ T cells during alloimmunization to PLT transfusion. The presented data support a critical role for CD4+ T‐cell help in the humoral response to PLT transfusion and establish the spleen as a required microenvironment for effective CD4+ T‐cell priming against donor PLT–derived MHC I.
Best practice for peripheral blood progenitor cell mobilization and collection in adults and children: results of a Società Italiana Di Emaferesi e Manipolazione Cellulare (SIDEM) and Gruppo Italiano Trapianto Midollo Osseo (GITMO) consensus process
Authors: Pierelli Luca , Perseghin Paolo , Marchetti Monia , Accorsi Patrizia , Fanin Renato , Messina Chiara , Olivieri Attilio , Risso Marco , Salvaneschi Laura , Bosi Alberto ,   for Società Italiana Di Emaferesi and Manipolazione Cellulare (SIDEM) and Gruppo Italiano Trapianto Midollo Osseo (GITMO)
Published: October 2011

BACKGROUND: A large heterogeneity in current mobilization and collection practices is perceived. Moreover, recent evidence introduced novel issues into some specific topics. Optimization of the clinical practice, through the adoption of clinical practice guidelines, previously proved to reduce health care resource use.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS: Two Italian scientific societies, Società Italiana Di Emaferesi e Manipolazione Cellulare (SIDEM) and Gruppo Italiano Trapianto Midollo Osseo (GITMO), perceived the need of hematologists and transfusionists to share a common paradigm in the setting of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (SCT). The aim of the current position paper is to provide common definitions and criteria for mobilization and collection of peripheral blood stem cells both in autologous and in the allogeneic setting. Current international and national standards (i.e., International Society of Hematotherapy and Graft Engineering) and recommendations (i.e., European Group for Blood and Marrow Transplantation) were harmonized with the Panel recommendations.

RESULTS: The Expert Panel consisted of nine members (five transfusionists and four hematologists with both clinical and scientific experience of SCT in both pediatric and adult setting) and one methodologist and first convened on April 19, 2010: they in turn agreed on the questions to be answered by the project. Available literature was reviewed by one expert and the methodologist and presented to the other members. Statements were then formulated. SIDEM and GITMO planned an informal meeting of the Panel every 2 years to discuss relevant updates and possible changes to the recommendations.

CONCLUSION: The efforts of the expert panel members allowed to set up and share a common approach to the mobilization, enumeration, and collection issues in the field of both autologous and allogeneic peripheral blood SCT.
Artifacts of CD Burning in the Microsoft Windows Master File Table
Authors: Elrick Douglas
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  When theft of a physical item occurs it is detectable by the fact that the object is missing, however, when the theft of a digital item occurs it can go unnoticed as exact replicas can be created. The original file is left intact but valuable information has been absconded. One of the challenges facing digital forensic examiners is detecting when files have been copied off of a computer system in some fashion. While certain methods do leave residual evidence behind, CD Burning has long been held as a copying method that cannot be identified. Through testing of the burning process and close examination of the New Technology File System (NTFS), artifacts from the master file table in the various versions of Microsoft Windows, markers have been found that are associated with copying or “burning” files to CD or DVD. Potential evidence that was once overlooked may now be detectable.
Animal‐Related Fatalities—Part II: Characteristic Autopsy Findings and Variable Causes of Death Associated with Envenomation, Poisoning, Anaphylaxis, Asphyxiation, and Sepsis
Authors: Bury Danielle , Langlois Neil , Byard Roger W.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  In addition to blunt and sharp trauma, animal‐related fatalities may result from envenomation, poisoning, anaphylaxis, asphyxiation, and sepsis. Although the majority of envenomation deaths are caused by hornets, bees, and wasps, the mechanism of death is most often anaphylaxis. Envenomation resulting from the injection of a poison or toxin into a victim occurs with snakes, spiders, and scorpions on land. Marine animal envenomation may result from stings and bites from jellyfish, octopus, stonefish, cone fish, stingrays, and sea snakes. At autopsy, the findings may be extremely subtle, and so a history of exposure is required. Poisoning may also occur from ingesting certain fish, with three main forms of neurotoxin poisoning involving ciguatera, tetrodotoxin ingestion, and paralytic shellfish poisoning. Asphyxiation may follow upper airway occlusion or neck/chest compression by animals, and sepsis may follow bites. Autopsy analysis of cases requires extensive toxinological, toxicological, and biochemical analyses of body fluids.
Differentiating Cause‐of‐Death Terminology for Deaths Coded as Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, Accidental Suffocation, and Unknown Cause: An Investigation Using US Death Certificates, 2003–2004*
Authors: Kim Shin Y. , Shapiro‐Mendoza Carrie K. , Chu Susan Y. , Camperlengo Lena T. , Anderson Robert N.
Published: October 2011

Abstract:  We compared written text on infant death certificates for deaths coded as sudden infant death syndrome (R95), unknown cause (R99), and accidental suffocation (W75). Using US mortality files supplemented with the death certifiers’ written text for all infant deaths with International Classification of Diseases (ICD)‐10 assigned codes R95, R99, and W75, we formed cause‐of‐death subcategories from common themes identified from the written text. Among all infant deaths in 2003–2004, the underlying cause of death was listed as R99 for 2128 deaths, R95 for 4408 deaths, and W75 for 931 deaths. Among the postneonatal deaths, the differences in subcategories varied between assigned ICD‐10 codes: for R99‐coded deaths, 45.8% were categorized as “Unknown” and 48.6% as “Pending”; for R95‐coded deaths, 67.7% were categorized as “sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)”; and for W75‐coded deaths, 76.4% were categorized as “Suffocation.” Examination of the written text on the death certificates demonstrates variability in the assigned ICD‐10 codes which could have an important effect on the estimates of SIDS cases in the United States.
Androgen receptor CAG repeat polymorphism in males of six non‐human primate species
Authors: Mubiru James N. , Cavazos Nicole , Hemmat Peggah , Garcia‐Forey Magdalena , Shade Robert E. , Rogers Jeffrey
Published: October 2011

Background   Androgen receptor [CAG]n microsatellite has been linked to human diseases.

Methods  Six non‐human primates were genotyped for the [CAG]n microsatellite.

Results  Marmosets and macaques are monomorphic, while mangabeys, baboons, and chimpanzees are polymorphic.

Conclusions  Non‐human primates that are polymorphic for the microsatellite are candidate animal models for CAG‐related diseases.
Social determinants of iron supplementation among women of reproductive age: a systematic review of qualitative data
Authors: Nagata Jason M. , Gatti Lisa R. , Barg Frances K.
Published: October 2011

Iron supplementation for women of reproductive age is a main part of an interdisciplinary strategy recommended for the control and prevention of iron deficiency and the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate iron‐deficiency anaemia. This systematic review reports the findings from a meta‐synthesis of qualitative data concerning the experiences and perceptions of iron supplementation among women of reproductive age and health service providers worldwide. Qualitative systematic review methods were used to conduct a search of published literature, define inclusion and exclusion criteria, appraise quality of studies and extract data on the use of iron supplementation among women of reproductive age. Coding, thematic analysis, reciprocal translation and line of argument synthesis were used to synthesize data. Twelve studies spanning 17 countries met inclusion criteria and were included in the analysis. Seven domains emerged from the review: cultural norms and societal values including explanatory models and medical pluralism; political and socio‐economic circumstances; education and communication; social organization and social relationships; health care access and supplement supply; food and nutrition availability; and adherence. In addition, 16 sub‐domains are highlighted. Connecting review findings to a conceptual framework of social determinants of health highlights salient issues that policy makers must consider when adapting global iron supplementation recommendations to the local context.