bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Plant volatiles cause direct, induced and associational resistance in common bean to the fungal pathogen Colletotrichum lindemuthianum
Authors: Quintana‐Rodriguez Elizabeth , Morales‐Vargas Adan T. , Molina‐Torres Jorge , Ádame‐Alvarez Rosa M. , Acosta‐Gallegos Jorge A. , Heil Martin
Published: October 2014

Plants that express resistance to herbivores emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can trigger resistance responses in undamaged neighbours. Recent reports indicate that VOCs can also trigger the resistance to pathogens, an effect that might be due to different mechanisms: the priming of an induced expression of resistance genes in the receiver or direct inhibitory effects on microbial pathogens that cause a passive ‘associational’ resistance in the VOC‐exposed plant.

We investigated whether VOCs emitted from a resistant common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) cultivar enhance the resistance to the fungus Colletotrichum lindemuthianum in a susceptible cultivar and analysed whether specific VOCs are likely to directly affect the pathogen.

We found that susceptible plants exposed to the headspace of resistance‐expressing plants over 6 h became phenotypically as resistant as the resistant cultivar. Several resistance marker genes (PATHOGENESIS‐RELATED [PR] 1, 2 and 4) were primed in VOC‐exposed susceptible plants. After challenging, these genes reached expression levels at least as high as in the resistant cultivar. Additionally, individual VOCs such as limonene, linalool, nonanal, methyl salicylate and methyl jasmonate at natural concentrations directly inhibited the germination of conidia as did also the headspace of a resistance‐expressing plant. This inhibition of conidial germination was dosage‐dependent and irreversible.

Synthesis. We conclude that VOCs are involved in the resistance of bean to fungal pathogens. They can contribute to the direct resistance in the emitter itself, and resistance phenotypes of neighbouring receiver plants can result from induced as well as associational resistance. Plant VOCs play multiple roles in the resistance of plants to microbial pathogens.
The impact of poor sleep on cognition and activities of daily living after traumatic brain injury: A review
Authors: Duclos Catherine , Beauregard Marie‐Pascale , Bottari Carolina , Ouellet Marie‐Christine , Gosselin Nadia
Published: October 2014

Background/aim

Patients frequently report sleep disruptions or insomnia during their hospital stay, particularly after a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The consequences of these sleep disturbances on everyday activities are not well documented and are therefore not considered in the evaluation of independence in activities of daily living (ADLs). The goal of this narrative review is to explore the consequences of poor sleep quality on cognition and ADLs in the acute and subacute stages of a moderate and severe TBI, when patients are in acute care or inpatient rehabilitation.

Methods

We will present an overview of normal sleep and its role in cognitive functioning, and then present the findings of studies that have investigated sleep characteristics in hospital settings and the consequences of sleep disturbances on ADLs.

Results

During hospitalisation, TBI patients present severe sleep disturbances such as insomnia and sleep fragmentation, which are probably influenced by both the medical condition and the hospital or rehabilitation environment. Sleep disruption is associated with several cognitive deficits, including attention, memory and executive function impairments. Poor quality and/or insufficient quantity of sleep in acute TBI probably affect general functioning and ADLs calling for these cognitive functions.

Conclusions and Significance

The cognitive impairments present following TBI are probably exacerbated by poor sleep quality and sleep deprivation during hospitalisation, which in turn impact ADLs among this population. Health‐care personnel should further consider sleep disturbances among people with TBI and a sleep protocol should be established.
Biodegradation of C7 and C8iso‐alkanes under methanogenic conditions
Authors: Abu Laban Nidal , Dao Anh , Semple Kathleen , Foght Julia
Published: October 2014

Iso‐alkanes comprise a substantial proportion of petroleum and refined products that impact the environment, but their fate is cryptic under methanogenic conditions. We investigated methanogenic biodegradation of C7 and C8 iso‐alkanes found in naphtha, specifically 2‐methylhexane, 3‐methylhexane, 2‐methylheptane, 4‐methylheptane and 3‐ethylhexane. These were incubated as a mixture or individually with enrichment cultures derived from oil sands tailings ponds that generate methane from naphtha components; substrate depletion and methane production were monitored for up to 663 days. 3‐Methylhexane and 4‐methylheptane were degraded both singly and in the mixture, whereas 2‐methylhexane and 2‐methylheptane resisted degradation as single substrates but were depleted in the iso‐alkane mixture, suggesting co‐metabolism. 3‐Ethylhexane was degraded neither singly nor with co‐substrates. Putative metabolites consistent with succinylated C7 and C8 were detected, suggesting activation by addition of iso‐alkanes to fumarate and corresponding to detection of alkylsuccinate synthase‐like genes. 454 pyrotag sequencing, cloning and terminal restriction fragment length polymorphism of 16S rRNA genes revealed predominance of a novel member of the family Peptococcaceae (order Clostridiales) and Archaea affiliated with Methanoregula and Methanosaeta. We report here isomer‐specific metabolism of C7‐C8 iso‐alkanes under methanogenic conditions and propose their activation by a novel Peptococcaceae via addition to fumarate.
Flexible kinship: caring for AIDS orphans in rural Lesotho
Authors: Block Ellen
Published: October 2014

HIV/AIDS has devastated families in rural Lesotho, leaving many children orphaned. Families have adapted to the increase in the number of orphans and HIV‐positive children in ways that provide children with the best possible care. Though local ideas about kinship and care are firmly rooted in patrilineal social organization, in practice, maternal caregivers, often grandmothers, are increasingly caring for orphaned children. Negotiations between affinal kin capitalize on flexible kinship practices in order to legitimate new patterns of care, which have shifted towards a model that often favours matrilocal practices of care in the context of idealized patrilineality.
Complexes and imagination
Authors: Kast Verena
Published: October 2014

Fantasies as imaginative activities are seen by Jung as expressions of psychic energy. In the various descriptions of active imagination the observation of the inner image and the dialogue with inner figures, if possible, are important. The model of symbol formation, as Jung describes it, can be experienced in doing active imagination.

There is a correspondence between Jung's understanding of complexes and our imaginations: complexes develop a fantasy life. Complex episodes are narratives of difficult dysfunctional relationship episodes that have occurred repeatedly and are internalized with episodic memory. This means that the whole complex episode (the image for the child and the image for the aggressor, connected with emotions) is internalized and can get constellated in everyday relationship.

Therefore inner dialogues do not necessarily qualify as active imaginations, often they are the expression of complex‐episodes, very similar to fruitless soliloquies. If imaginations of this kind are repeated, new symbols and new possibilities of behaviour are not found. On the contrary, old patterns of behaviour and fantasies are perpetuated and become cemented. Imaginations of this kind need an intervention by the analyst. In clinical examples different kinds of imaginations are discussed.
Influences on my clinical practice and identity. Jungian analysis on the couch–what and where is the truth of it?
Authors: Schmidt Martin
Published: October 2014

The author considers the various influences that have shaped his clinical practice and particular identity as a Jungian analyst. It is hoped that the sharing of these observations will, like a shard of a hologram, reflect aspects of the Jungian community as a whole. The author also attempts to put Jungian analysis ‘on the couch’ by looking at the current debate in the Journal between traditional and relational psychoanalysis. This is compared to the discourse that philosophy has been struggling with for centuries concerning the nature of truth.
Early trauma and affect: the importance of the body for the development of the capacity to symbolize
Authors: Willemsen Hessel
Published: October 2014

In this paper I aim to outline the importance of working clinically with affect when treating severely traumatized patients who have a limited capacity to symbolize. These patients, who suffer the loss of maternal care early in life, require the analyst to be closely attuned to the patient's distress through use of the countertransference and with significantly less attention paid to the transference. It is questionable whether we can speak of transference when there is limited capacity to form internal representations. The analyst's relationship with the patient is not necessarily used to make interpretations but, instead, the analyst's reverie functions therapeutically to develop awareness and containment of affect, first in the analyst's mind and, later, in the patient's, so that, in time, a relationship between the patient's mind and the body, as the first object, is made. In contrast to general object‐relations theories, in which the first object is considered to be the breast or the mother, Ferrari (2004) proposes that the body is the first object in the emerging mind. Once a relationship between mind and body is established, symbolization becomes possible following the formation of internal representations of affective states in the mind, where previously there were few. Using Ferrari's body‐mind model, two clinical case vignettes underline the need to use the countertransference with patients who suffered chronic developmental trauma in early childhood.
Use of stop‐smoking medications in the United States before and after the introduction of varenicline
Authors: Kasza Karin A. , Cummings K. Michael , Carpenter Matthew J. , Cornelius Monica E. , Hyland Andrew J. , Fong Geoffrey T.
Published: October 2014

Aims

To evaluate trends in use of stop‐smoking medications (SSMs) before and after varenicline (Chantix™) was introduced to the market‐place in the United States, and to determine whether varenicline reached segments of the population unlikely to use other SSMs.

Design

Cohort survey.

Setting

United States.

Participants

A nationally representative sample of adult smokers in the United States interviewed as part of the International Tobacco Control Four Country Survey between 2004 and 2011. Primary analyses used cross‐sectional data from 1737 smokers who attempted to quit (∼450 per wave).

Measurements

Reporting an attempt to quit smoking; use of each of the following types of SSMs for the purpose of quitting smoking: nicotine gum, nicotine patch, other nicotine replacement therapy, bupropion and varenicline.

Findings

There was a significant increase in the rate of use of any SSM among quit attempters across the study period [odds ratio (OR) = 1.15, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.10–1.21 per year]. This increase was largest after varenicline was introduced (OR = 1.16, 95% CI = 1.07–1.26 per year); however, there was a decline in nicotine patch use during this time (OR = 0.87, 95% CI = 0.76–0.99 per year). Varenicline users were generally similar to users of other SSMs but differed from those who did not use any SSMs, in that they tended to be older (OR = 5.46, P = 0.024), to be white (OR = 2.33, P = 0.002), to have high incomes (OR = 1.85, P = 0.005), to have high nicotine dependence prior to quitting (OR = 2.40, P = 0.001) and to have used medication in the past (OR = 3.29, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The introduction of varenicline in the United States coincided with a net increase in attempts to quit smoking and, among these, a net increase in use of stop‐smoking medications. The demographic profile of varenicline users is similar to the profile of those who use other stop‐smoking medications and different from the profile of those who attempt to quit without any medication.
Peyronie's disease: urologist's knowledge base and practice patterns
Authors: Sullivan J. , Moskovic D. , Nelson C. , Levine L. , Mulhall J.
Published: October 2014

Peyronie's disease (PD) is a poorly understood clinical entity. We performed an in‐depth analysis of the knowledge base and current practice patterns of urologists in the United States. A 46‐question instrument was created by two experienced PD practitioners and emailed to current American Urology Association members nationally. Questions were either multiple‐choice or used a visual analogue scale. Responses regarding treatment options were answered by ranking a list of utilized therapies by preference. Data were aggregated and mean values for each category compiled. Responses were received from 639 urologists (67% in private practice). Almost all (98%) reported seeing PD patients with regularity. Twenty‐six percent believed PD prevalence is ≤1%, a small fraction (5%) reporting prevalence as ≥10%. Only 3% referred patients to a subspecialist in PD. Twenty‐six percent believed PD is a condition that does not warrant any treatment. The preferred initial management was with oral agents (81%). Of those who used intralesional injections as first line, verapamil was most commonly selected (67%). Seventy‐nine percent perform surgery for PD with 86% reporting the optimal timing at ≥12 months after onset of symptoms. Seventy percent perform penile plication, most commonly the Nesbit technique (54%), 61% perform implant surgery and 37% reported performing plaque incision/excision and grafting. Although PD is now a more recognized condition, there are still large variances in knowledge and management strategies. Prospective clinical studies are needed to elucidate standardized management guidelines and a more cohesive strategy to manage this common disease.
Modified methylene blue injection improves lymph node harvest in rectal cancer
Authors: Liu Jianpei , Huang Pinjie , Zheng Zongheng , Chen Tufeng , Wei Hongbo
Published: October 2014

Background

The presence of nodal metastases in rectal cancer plays an important role in accurate staging and prognosis, which depends on adequate lymph node harvest. The aim of this prospective study is to investigate the feasibility and survival benefit of improving lymph node harvest by a modified method with methylene blue injection in rectal cancer specimens.

Methods

One hundred and thirty‐one patients with rectal cancer were randomly assigned to the control group in which lymph nodes were harvested by palpation and sight, or to the methylene blue group using a modified method of injection into the superior rectal artery with methylene blue. Analysis of clinicopathologic records, including a long‐term follow‐up, was performed.

Results

In the methylene blue group, 678 lymph nodes were harvested by simple palpation and sight. Methylene blue injection added 853 lymph nodes to the total harvest as well as 32 additional metastatic lymph nodes, causing a shift to node‐positive stage in four patients. The average number of lymph nodes harvested was 11.7 ± 3.4 in the control group and 23.2 ± 4.7 in the methylene blue group, respectively. The harvest of small lymph nodes (<5 mm) and the average number of metastatic nodes were both significantly higher in the methylene blue group. The modified method of injection with methylene blue had no impact on overall survival.

Discussion

The modified method with methylene blue injection improved lymph node harvest in rectal cancer, especially small node and metastatic node retrieval, which provided more accurate staging. However, it was not associated with overall survival.
Dhanarajan, Gajaraj & Porter, David ed (2013) Open educational resources: An Asian perspectiveCommonwealth of learning (Vancouver) isbn 978‐1‐894975‐61‐2 274 pp CDN$12 (pdf free) http://www.col.org/resources/publications/Pages/detail.aspx?PID=441
Authors: Cannell Pete
Published: October 2014

This book provides an up to date review of the higher education production and use of oer across Asia. It forms a valuable resource if you have a specific interest in the development of Open Education around the world but it also provides very useful background for broader issues around the development and use of oer. If the content of this book is likely to be relevant to you, I recommend that you arrange to borrow a copy for a while or, better, download your own copy.

Pete Cannell
Patrut, Monica & Patrut, Bogdan ed (2013) Social media in higher educationIGI Global (Hershey & Eurospan, London) isbn 978‐1‐46662‐970‐7 474 pp £140 http://www.igi‐global.com/book/social‐media‐higher‐education/70774
Authors: Betts Lucy R.
Published: October 2014

This edited text is a comprehensive account of social media use in higher education. It includes chapters focusing on teaching, students, tools and technological issues, and educational and ethical issues—meaning that a range of social media and applications is systematically discussed. Get a copy on loan, I suggest, if this book may be relevant to you.

Lucy R. Betts
Are trajectories of self‐regulation abilities from ages 2–3 to 6–7 associated with academic achievement in the early school years?
Authors: Sawyer A. C. P. , Chittleborough C. R. , Mittinty M. N. , Miller‐Lewis L. R. , Sawyer M. G. , Sullivan T. , Lynch J. W.
Published: October 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to estimate the association between two key aspects of self‐regulation, ‘task attentiveness’ and ‘emotional regulation’ assessed from ages 2–3 to 6–7 years, and academic achievement when children were aged 6–7 years.

Methods

Participants (n = 3410) were children in the Longitudinal Study of Australian Children. Parents rated children's task attentiveness and emotional regulation abilities when children were aged 2–3, 4–5 and 6–7. Academic achievement was assessed using the Academic Rating Scale completed by teachers. Linear regression models were used to estimate the association between developmental trajectories (i.e. rate of change per year) of task attentiveness and emotional regulation, and academic achievement at 6–7 years.

Results

Improvements in task attentiveness between 2–3 and 6–7 years, adjusted for baseline levels of task attentiveness, child and family confounders, and children's receptive vocabulary and non‐verbal reasoning skills at age 6–7 were associated with greater teacher‐rated literacy [B = 0.05, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.04–0.06] and maths achievement (B = 0.04, 95% CI = 0.03–0.06) at 6–7 years. Improvements in emotional regulation, adjusting for baseline levels and covariates, were also associated with better teacher‐rated literacy (B = 0.02, 95% CI = 0.01–0.04) but not with maths achievement (B = 0.01, 95% CI = −0.01–0.02) at 6–7 years. For literacy, improvements in task attentiveness had a stronger association with achievement at 6–7 years than improvements in emotional regulation.

Conclusions

Our study shows that improved trajectories of task attentiveness from ages 2–3 to 6–7 years are associated with improved literacy and maths achievement during the early school years. Trajectories of improving emotional regulation showed smaller effects on academic outcomes. Results suggest that interventions that improve task attentiveness when children are aged 2–3 to 6–7 years have the potential to improve literacy and maths achievement during the early school years.
Social cognition in children with epilepsy in mainstream education
Authors: Lew Adina R , Lewis Charlie , Lunn Judith , Tomlin Pamela , Basu Helen , Roach Julie , Rakshi Karl , Martland Timothy
Published: October 2014

Aim

To establish whether deficits in social cognition are present in children with generalized or focal epilepsy in mainstream education, and whether any relation exists between social cognition, communication, and behaviour measures.

Method

In a cross‐sectional study, children with an epilepsy‐only diagnoses in mainstream education (n=20 with generalized epilepsy; eight males, 12 females; mean age 11y 6mo, SD 2y 6mo; and n=27 with focal epilepsy; 12 males, 15 females; mean age 11y 8mo, SD 2y 2mo) and comparison participants (n=57; 28 males, 29 females; mean age 11y 2mo, SD 2y 4mo) were administered the Strange Stories task and the Mind in the Eyes task, as well as an IQ assessment. Parents completed the Children's Communication Checklist‐2 and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL).

Results

Both groups of children with epilepsy performed more poorly than control children on the Mental Stories component of the Strange Stories task, F(2,101)=3.2, p<0.001. Performance on Mental Stories was related to pragmatic communication, but only in the generalized epilepsy group (r=0.51, p=0.03, 95% CI=0.2–0.8). There were no differences between epilepsy groups or control participants in the Mind in the Eyes task, F(2,101)=0.4, p=0.4.

Interpretation

Children with ‘epilepsy only’ are at risk of deficits in social cognition and may require appropriate support.
Identifying Characteristics of Dissemination Success Using an Expert Panel
Authors: Bourrie David M. , Cegielski Casey G. , Jones‐Farmer L. Allison , Sankar Chetan S.
Published: October 2014

Although considerable work has been done to develop new educational innovations, few have found widespread acceptance in the classroom. To improve the likelihood of adoption of educational innovations, researchers need to understand why some innovations are adopted and routinely used, while others are not. An initial aspect of the diffusion of innovations, as defined in the classical sociological literature, involves the communication of ideas and concepts related to innovations between individuals. This article presents an expert panel's answer to the following question: “What are the most important characteristics that relate to the dissemination of educational innovations?” As dissemination is a critical facet of the diffusion of an innovation, 45 researchers who received technology and engineering grants from the National Science Foundation (NSF) participated in a Delphi study designed to address this research question. In three rounds, the experts identified and ranked 11 characteristics of educational innovations, 6 characteristics of students, 13 characteristics of faculty members, and 5 characteristics of administrators that can relate to the successful dissemination of educational innovations. The results of this study led to the formation of a Characteristics of Dissemination Success (CODS) framework. This framework offers useful guidance for educational innovators seeking a better understanding of the influences on the dissemination of educational innovations.
Nocturnal stem cell mobilization in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea: a pilot study
Authors: Chou Kun‐Ta , Liu Chen‐Chi , Hsu Han‐Shui , Chang Shi‐Chuan , Chen Yuh‐Min , Perng Diahn‐Warng , Hsu Yuan‐Tong , Lee Yu‐Chin , Hung Shih‐Chieh
Published: October 2014

Background

Patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) experience repetitive cessation of breathing during sleep, leading to intermittent hypoxaemia, excessive oxidative stress and systemic inflammation. These insults may damage the vasculature and provoke the corresponding repair response, such as stem cell mobilization to peripheral blood. This study aimed to investigate nocturnal mobilization of stem cells in OSA.

Methods

Thirty‐five patients with OSA and thirteen healthy controls were enrolled. Polysomnography was performed, and severity of OSA was defined by apnoea–hypopnoea index (AHI). Peripheral venous blood was drawn after and before sleep for measurement of CD34+ cell and SDF‐1α level. Stem cell mobilization was gauged by ratios of the CD34+ level in the morning to that at night or by their difference. Correlation analysis was performed to identify factors related to stem cell mobilization.

Results

Compared to controls, the nocturnal ratios and difference of CD34+ cell levels were larger in patients with OSA (ratios: 1·141 vs. 0·896, P = 0·036; difference: 340 vs. −166/cc blood, P = 0·036), suggestive of stem cell mobilization. The mobilization ratios were related to AHI, body mass index (BMI), SpO2 nadir, oxygen desaturation index and time sustaining hypoxaemia. After adjusting age, gender and BMI, AHI (r = 0·357, P = 0·016) and hypoxaemia‐related parameter remained significant. Paired nocturnal differences in CD34+ cell count (P = 0·009) and SDF‐1α (P = 0·001) were also significant in patients with OSA, but not in controls. After CPAP therapy for 6 months, the elevated mobilization ratios in patients with OSA tended to decline (P = 0·059).

Conclusion

CD34+ stem cell mobilization during sleep was observed in OSA.
Impact of body mass index on mortality in heart failure patients
Authors: Takiguchi Mai , Yoshihisa Akiomi , Miura Shunsuke , Shimizu Takeshi , Nakamura Yuichi , Yamauchi Hiroyuki , Iwaya Shoji , Owada Takashi , Miyata Makiko , Abe Satoshi , Sato Takamasa , Suzuki Satoshi , Suzuki Hitoshi , Saitoh Shu‐ichi , Takeishi Yasuchika
Published: October 2014

Background

Higher body mass index (BMI) is associated with incident heart failure (HF), but paradoxically associated with better prognosis, recognized as the obesity paradox in HF. However, the impact of BMI on detailed prognosis on HF and the mechanism of obesity paradox remain still unclear.

Materials and methods

We researched consecutive 648 patients admitted for HF as follows: underweight (BMI < 18·5 kg/m2, n = 86), normal (18·5 ≤ BMI < 25, n = 380), overweight (25 ≤ BMI < 30, n = 147) and obese (30 ≤ BMI, n = 35) and compared the results from their laboratory tests and echocardiography. We also followed cardiac and all‐cause mortality.

Results

Obese group had a higher prevalence of obesity‐related comorbidity (hypertension, diabetes, dyslipidemia); however, tumour necrosis factor‐α, adiponectin, troponin T and systolic pulmonary arterial pressure were higher in the underweight group than in the other groups (P < 0·05, respectively). Left and right ventricular systolic function did not differ among the groups. In the Kaplan–Meier analysis, cardiac and all‐cause mortality progressively increased from obese to overweight, normal and underweight group. Importantly, in the Cox proportional hazard analyses after adjusting for known risk factors, BMI was an independent predictor of cardiac and all‐cause mortality (P < 0·01, respectively) in HF patients.

Conclusions

Body mass index was an independent predictor of cardiac death and all‐cause mortality in HF patients. Furthermore, lower BMI was associated with higher circulating levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α, adiponectin and troponin T and higher systolic pulmonary arterial pressure.
Ursodeoxycholic acid decreases bilirubin‐induced osteoblast apoptosis
Authors: Ruiz‐Gaspà Silvia , Dubreuil Marta , Guañabens Nuria , Combalia Andrés , Peris Pilar , Monegal Ana , Parés Albert
Published: October 2014

Background

Low bone turnover osteoporosis is common in cholestatic diseases. Ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) counteracts the damaging effects of bilirubin or lithocholic acid (LCA) on osteoblast viability, proliferation and mineralisation. UDCA is anti‐apoptotic in various cell lines, but this effect in bone cells is unknown. Therefore, the consequences of bilirubin and LCA on apoptosis, and whether UDCA has anti‐apoptotic effects have been assessed on osteoblasts.

Materials and Methods

Human osteoblasts (hOB) and osteosarcoma cell line (Saos‐2) were treated with camptothecin as a pro‐apoptotic agent, and UDCA, LCA and bilirubin. Apoptosis was determined by DNA fragmentation, flow cytometry, caspase‐3 activity and expression of pro‐apoptotic (Bcl‐2‐associated X protein BAX) and anti‐apoptotic (BCL2 and BCL2‐like 1 protein, BCL2L) genes.

Results

Both LCA (10 μM) and bilirubin (50 μM) induced apoptosis as indicated by DNA fragmentation (4·7‐ and 3·7‐fold, respectively, P < 0·001), caspase‐3 activity and flow cytometry in Saos‐2 and hOB. UDCA (10 μM) reduced the apoptotic effects of camptothecin (0·5 μM) by 61%, (P < 0·001) and counteracted the apoptotic effects of LCA and bilirubin determined by DNA fragmentation (56% and 60%, respectively, P < 0·001), cytometry and caspase‐3 activity in Saos‐2, with lower effects in hOB. UDCA (10 μM) downregulated BAX (75%), upregulated BCL2L (10‐fold, P < 0·01) genes, and neutralised BAX upregulation (P < 0·01) and BCL2L downregulation (P < 0·01) induced by LCA and bilirubin.

Conclusions

Bilirubin and LCA induce apoptosis in osteoblastic cells. UDCA counteracts the apoptotic consequences of these two substances, and therefore, it may have further beneficial effects on the decreased bone formation in the cholestasis.
Autumn microhabitat breadth differs between family groups of Atlantic salmon parr (Salmo salar) in a small chalk stream
Authors: Fernandes Wendy P. A. , Copp Gordon H. , Riley William D.
Published: October 2014

The effect of family traits on the microhabitat use by six genetically distinct groups (three in each year of study) of juvenile Atlantic salmon tagged with passive integrated transponder (PIT) tags was studied via PIT‐tag detectors installed on the river bed in a small chalk stream of southern England, during Autumn in 2006 and 2007. Canonical correspondence analysis of the molecular and microhabitat data revealed considerable overlap in the microhabitat use of the family groups and notable differences in microhabitat breadth, which was partly influenced by sample size. The data suggest that microhabitat breadth and preferences of wild salmon are influenced by family of origin.
Indicators of unsustainable fishery in the Middle Danube
Authors: Jarić Ivan , Smederevac‐Lalić Marija , Jovičić Katarina , Jaćimović Milica , Cvijanović Gorčin , Lenhardt Mirjana , Kalauzi Aleksandar
Published: October 2014

Fishery in the Danube River basin has been characterised over the past century by increasing fishing levels, illegal fishing practices and poor regulations. However, there is a remarkable lack of available information on the actual status of fish stocks, as well as on the trends and sustainability of fisheries, which poses a problem for the development of adequate policy and management measures. In this study, we assessed the trends in the commercial fishery in the Middle Danube in Serbia during 1969–1989 and 2006–2010 by evaluating the temporal changes in life history‐related indicators that might point out unsustainable fishing pressures. Moreover, we present the approach of using the catch‐weighted mean egg‐per‐recruit (EPR) index as a proxy for the overall resilience of fish stocks to fishing. Results indicated a marked shift towards smaller fish that mature earlier and have a shorter lifespan. Landings also shifted towards species at lower trophic levels, with a mean trophic level decline at a rate of approximately 0.16 per decade. Results indicated likely presence of the ‘fishing through the food web’ phenomenon. At the same time, catch‐weighted community mean of the 20% EPR threshold ratio (EPR20%) increased by 4.2%, indicating the increase of the overall resilience to fishing of the exploited species. Obtained results indicated the importance of using such metrics for the assessments of trends in fishery. The approach and results presented here could be of interest for the scientific community and stakeholders involved in fishery management.
Friend and foe: factors influencing the movement of the bacterium Helicobacter pylori along the parasitism–mutualism continuum
Authors: Lin Derek , Koskella Britt
Published: October 2014

Understanding the transition of bacterial species from commensal to pathogen, or vice versa, is a key application of evolutionary theory to preventative medicine. This requires working knowledge of the molecular interaction between hosts and bacteria, ecological interactions among microbes, spatial variation in bacterial prevalence or host life history, and evolution in response to these factors. However, there are very few systems for which such broad datasets are available. One exception is the gram‐negative bacterium, Helicobacter pylori, which infects upwards of 50% of the global human population. This bacterium is associated with a wide breadth of human gastrointestinal disease, including numerous cancers, inflammatory disorders, and pathogenic infections, but is also known to confer fitness benefits to its host both indirectly, through interactions with other pathogens, and directly. Outstanding questions are therefore why, when, and how this bacterium transitions along the parasitism–mutualism continuum. We examine known virulence factors, genetic predispositions of the host, and environmental contributors that impact progression of clinical disease and help define geographical trends in disease incidence. We also highlight the complexity of the interaction and discuss future therapeutic strategies for disease management and public health in light of the longstanding evolutionary history between the bacterium and its human host.
The flavoprotein FerB of Paracoccus denitrificans binds to membranes, reduces ubiquinone and superoxide, and acts as an in vivo antioxidant
Authors: Sedláček Vojtĕch , Ptáčková Nikola , Rejmontová Petra , Kučera Igor
Published: October 2014

FerB is a flavin mononucleotide (FMN)‐containing NAD(P)H:acceptor oxidoreductase of unknown function that is found in the cytoplasm of the bacterium Paracoccus denitrificans. Based on measurements of fluorescence anisotropy, we report here that recombinant FerB readily binds to artificial membrane vesicles. If ubiquinone is incorporated into the membrane, FerB catalyzes its conversion to ubihydroquinone, which may be followed fluorimetrically (with ferricyanide and pyranine entrapped inside the liposomes) or by HPLC. FerB also reduces exogenously added superoxide or superoxide that has been enzymatically generated by the xanthine/xanthine oxidase system or P. denitrificans membrane vesicles. In whole cells, deficiency of FerB increases sensitivity to methyl viologen, as indicated by a lower growth rate and increased production of reactive aldehydes (by‐products of lipid oxidation). Taken together, these data support a role for FerB in protection of cells against lipid peroxidation‐mediated oxidative stress, and suggest that FerB is a prokaryotic counterpart of mammalian NAD(P)H:quinone oxidoreductase 1.
Incidence of and risk factors for bile duct stones after living donor liver transplantation: An analysis of 100 patients
Authors: Senoo Takemasa , Ichikawa Tatsuki , Taura Naota , Miyaaki Hisamitsu , Miuma Satoshi , Shibata Hidetaka , Honda Takuya , Takatsuki Mitsuhisa , Hidaka Masaaki , Soyama Akihiko , Eguchi Susumu , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: October 2014

Aim

Although bile duct stone (BDS) is one of the biliary complications of liver transplantation, analytical studies, particularly on living donor liver transplantation (LDLT) cases, are rare. This study aimed to clarify the incidence of and risk factors for BDS following LDLT.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of 100 patients who underwent LDLT at our institute from August 2000 to May 2012, and analyzed their clinical characteristics and risk factors for BDS.

Results

Of these, 10 patients (10.0%) developed BDS during the observation period. The median follow‐up period to BDS diagnosis was 45.5 months (range, 5–84) after LDLT. Univariate analysis revealed male sex, right lobe graft and bile duct strictures as factors that significantly correlated with BDS formation. Multivariate analysis revealed bile duct strictures (odds ratio, 7.17; P = 0.011) and right lobe graft (odds ratio, 10.20; P = 0.040) to be independent risk factors for BDS formation. One patient with BDS and biliary strictures succumbed to sepsis from cholangitis.

Conclusion

In the present study, right lobe graft and bile duct strictures are independent risk factors for BDS formation after LDLT. More careful observation and monitoring are required in the patients with high‐risk factors.
Glucagon‐reactive islet‐infiltrating CD8 T cells in NOD mice
Authors: Mukherjee Gayatri , Chaparro Rodolfo J. , Schloss Jennifer , Smith Carla , Bando Christopher D. , DiLorenzo Teresa P.
Published: October 2014

Type 1 diabetes is characterized by T‐cell‐mediated destruction of the insulin‐producing β cells in pancreatic islets. A number of islet antigens recognized by CD8 T cells that contribute to disease pathogenesis in non‐obese diabetic (NOD) mice have been identified; however, the antigenic specificities of the majority of the islet‐infiltrating cells have yet to be determined. The primary goal of the current study was to identify candidate antigens based on the level and specificity of expression of their genes in mouse islets and in the mouse β cell line MIN6. Peptides derived from the candidates were selected based on their predicted ability to bind H‐2Kd and were examined for recognition by islet‐infiltrating T cells from NOD mice. Several proteins, including those encoded by Abcc8, Atp2a2, Pcsk2, Peg3 and Scg2, were validated as antigens in this way. Interestingly, islet‐infiltrating T cells were also found to recognize peptides derived from proglucagon, whose expression in pancreatic islets is associated with α cells, which are not usually implicated in type 1 diabetes pathogenesis. However, type 1 diabetes patients have been reported to have serum autoantibodies to glucagon, and NOD mouse studies have shown a decrease in α cell mass during disease pathogenesis. Our finding of islet‐infiltrating glucagon‐specific T cells is consistent with these reports and suggests the possibility of α cell involvement in development and progression of disease.
Déréglementation du marché du travail versus gains de productivité? Analyse des données de vingt pays de l'OCDE (1960–2004)
Authors: VERGEER Robert , KLEINKNECHT Alfred
Published: October 2014

L'estimation économétrique montre que la modération salariale et la diminution de la part du travail dans le revenu national réduisent la croissance de la productivité du travail. Ainsi, les réformes du marché du travail dictées par l'offre contribuent à réduire les gains de productivité, ce qui ne peut s'expliquer par l'afflux de main‐d'œuvre faiblement productive, comme l'avance l'OCDE. En outre, déréglementation, licenciements facilités et rotation accélérée de la main‐d'œuvre freinent l'apprentissage et l'accumulation des connaissances dans les entreprises, ainsi que le modèle «routinier» d'innovation, dit «Schumpeter II». Enfin, la pertinence des lois de Baumol et Verdoorn est remise en question.
La importancia del empleo para reactivar el crecimiento y reducir la desigualdad
Authors: NAYYAR Deepak
Published: October 2014

La crisis económica mundial ha frenado el crecimiento y aún más la creación de empleo. El deterioro de las condiciones de trabajo exacerba la tendencia a la desigualdad. El crecimiento sin empleo obstaculiza el crecimiento de la producción debido a una peor distribución del ingreso. Los salarios son costos para la oferta, pero también ingresos que sostienen la demanda; el crecimiento impulsado por los salarios es pues complementario del impulsado por los beneficios. Crecimiento y empleo se retroalimentan. Con más empleo y de mejor calidad disminuirá también la desigualdad. Si las políticas macroeconómicas se centran en crear empleo y no en los precios y los presupuestos, el empleo reavivará el crecimiento y reducirá la desigualdad.
Sistemas de jubilación y reformas de los regímenes de pensiones en Malasia
Authors: TOLOS Habibah , WANG Peijie , ZHANG Miao , SHAND Rory
Published: October 2014

Se evalúan en este artículo los problemas actuales de los sistemas de jubilación malasios y las reformas emprendidas recientemente. Se analizan y comparan los modelos de regímenes de pensiones de la OIT, el Banco Mundial y la Geneva Association, generando un marco conceptual para el diseño y la reforma de regímenes de pensiones. A continuación se utiliza este marco para evaluar las reformas emprendidas en Malasia y sus ventajas e inconvenientes para los trabajadores. Los autores concluyen con recomendaciones para reformas futuras.
Copy Number Variations in Normal Karyotype Acute Myeloid Leukaemia and their Association with Treatment Response
Authors: Kim Kyung Im , Kim Tae‐kyung , Kim In‐Wha , Ahn Kwang‐Sung , Yoon Sung‐Soo , Shin Wan Gyoon , Oh Jung Mi
Published: October 2014

Copy number variation (CNV) has been reported to be associated with chemotherapy response, which affects disease prognosis. Here, we determined the frequency of genome‐wide cytogenetic CNV aberrations in Korean patients with normal karyotype (NK) acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and tested whether these genomic variations contribute to differences in Ara‐C and anthracycline‐based chemotherapy responses. Bone marrow aspirates and blood from 30 previously untreated de novo NK‐AML patients were provided at the time of diagnosis for copy number analysis. Possible associations between cytogenetic aberrations and clinical parameters were analysed. CNVs were identified in 23 (76.7%) of the 30 cases tested. Multivariate analyses controlled for other clinical co‐variates showed that patients having copy number loss had a decreased probability of complete remission (OR, 0.015 [95% CI, 0–0.737], p = 0.035). Patients who had a copy number gain of more than four regions tended to have shorter event‐free survival (EFS) (p = 0.083) with multivariate analysis showing that CNV increase is an independent predictive factor for shorter EFS (HR, 22.104 [95% CI, 1.644–297.157], p = 0.020). In addition, we identified candidate genes that may be involved in Ara‐C and anthracycline drug response in Korean patients with NK‐AML. These results suggest that CNVs may affect the success of Ara‐C and anthracycline‐based chemotherapy in Korean patients with NK‐AML.
The Protective Role of Zinc against Acute Toxicity of Depleted Uranium in Rats
Authors: Hao Yuhui , Ren Jiong , Liu Jing , Luo Shenglin , Ma Ting , Li Rong , Su Yongping
Published: October 2014

Depleted uranium (DU) has been widely used in both civilian and military activities and contributes to health problems. This study was undertaken to evaluate the protective role of zinc against acute toxicity of DU. Sprague Dawley rats were injected with DU (10 mg/kg, i.p.) to create a toxicity model (DU group). Before and after the injection of DU, zinc sulphate (10 mg/kg, i.p.) was administered once a day for 2 days. The survival rates at 30 days post DU administration and the effects of zinc at 4 days post DU administration were evaluated. Our data indicate that zinc has obvious protective effects, especially pre‐treatment with zinc. Rats pre‐treated with zinc had significantly higher survival rates than rats in the DU group, with 60.03% more surviving. In addition, at 4 days post DU administration, the former had lower kidney uranium content, insignificant renal tubular epithelial cell necrosis and less transparent tubes. Meanwhile, blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and urine N‐acethyl‐β‐d‐glucosaminidase concentrations were significantly decreased; the gene expression levels of metallothionein (MT) in kidney tissues were significantly increased; and catalase levels were increased and malondialdehyde levels were decreased. In conclusion, pre‐treatment with zinc significantly alleviated acute toxicity of DU, and the mechanism appeared to be related to the induction of MT synthesis and enhancement of the antioxidant function.
Haemostatic Effects of Metformin in Simvastatin‐Treated Volunteers with Impaired Fasting Glucose
Authors: Krysiak Robert , Okopien Boguslaw
Published: October 2014

Our study investigated whether metformin has an impact on haemostasis in patients with pre‐diabetes receiving statin therapy. The study included 41 simvastatin‐treated patients with impaired fasting glucose who were randomized to either metformin (3 g daily) or placebo. The international normalized ratio, the partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, factor VII coagulant activity, plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1 and von Willebrand factor were assessed on the day of randomization and after 90 days of treatment. Metformin treatment reduced plasma levels/activity of the assessed haemostatic risk factors, and this effect correlated with the improvement in insulin sensitivity. The obtained results indicate that high‐dose metformin produces a multi‐directional beneficial effect on coagulation and fibrinolysis in patients with impaired fasting glucose already receiving statin therapy. The effect of metformin on haemostasis may play a role in the prevention of atherosclerosis‐related disorders and acute vascular events in this pre‐diabetic state.
The effect of a graph‐oriented computer‐assisted project‐based learning environment on argumentation skills
Authors: Hsu P.‐S. , Van Dyke M. , Chen Y. , Smith T.J.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this quasi‐experimental study was to explore how seventh graders in a suburban school in the United States developed argumentation skills and science knowledge in a project‐based learning environment that incorporated a graph‐oriented, computer‐assisted application. A total of 54 students (three classes) comprised this treatment condition and were engaged in a project‐based learning environment that incorporated a graph‐oriented, computer‐assisted application, whereas a total of 57 students (three classes) comprised the control condition and were engaged in a project‐based learning environment without this graph‐oriented, computer‐assisted application. Verbal collaborative argumentation was recorded and the students' post essays were collected. A random effects analysis of variance (ANOVA) was conducted and a significant difference in science knowledge about alternative energies between conditions was observed. A multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) was conducted and there was a significant difference in counterargument and rebuttal skills between conditions. A qualitative analysis was conducted to examine how the graph‐oriented, computer‐assisted application supported students' development of argumentation skills and affected the quality of collaborative argumentation. The difference in argumentation structure and quality of argumentation between conditions might explain a difference in science knowledge as well counterargument and rebuttal skills (argumentation) between both conditions. This study concluded that a project‐based learning environment incorporating a graph‐oriented, computer‐assisted application was effective in improving students' science knowledge and developing their scientific argumentation skills.