bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Discourse on the Invention of Discourse: Why We Need the Terminology of “Religion” and “Religions”
Authors: Hedges Paul
Published: March 2014

Timothy Fitzgerald's deconstruction of religion occurs at the nexus of Critical Studies and the history of ideas. Set within the context of scholars like Tomoko Masuzawa and Russell McCutcheon, it is suggested that his work provides an important aid to reflexivity in Religious Studies scholarship, but that like other deconstructive work in this area it is beset by a number of flaws. In particular, the historical evidence is open to alternative readings that suggest the development of the category “religion” may be as much about “discovery” as “invention,” while the continued need for Fitzgerald and other scholars to use some term to substitute for “religion,” such as the “sacred,” shows the continued usefulness of the term as a descriptive tool.
An examination of the relation between market structure and the profitability of audit engagements
Authors: Ciconte Will , Knechel Walter Robert , Schelleman Caren
Published: March 2014

Due to increasing supplier concentration, there is growing concern regarding the lack of competition in the audit market. Theory based on Cournot oligopoly predicts that increasing concentration will facilitate monopolistic behaviour. Conversely, if the market for audit services has more in common with a Bertrand oligopoly, concentration may not lead to higher fees. We evaluate whether increased audit supplier concentration leads to economic rents by investigating audit profitability. Using proprietary data from a (then) Big 6 audit firm, we find that local market structure has a significant and positive association with audit profitability, but not auditor effort for large clients.
Preparing for tomorrow: Molecular diagnostics and the changing nonsmall cell lung cancer landscape
Authors: Boyer Michael , Tsao Ming‐Sound , Jänne Pasi , Ramalingam Suresh , Pitman Lowenthal Susan , Alam Mahmood
Published: March 2014

Over the last 10 to 15 years, the landscape of lung cancer has changed dramatically. Where cancers were previously described rather simplistically according to histological subtype, now molecular understanding of tumors has particularly resulted in segmentation of nonsmall cell lung cancer into many different subtypes. A multidisciplinary approach integrating a molecular testing algorithm that ideally includes reflex testing at diagnosis is recommended. This offers clinicians the opportunity to target treatment according to subtype. Identifying patients with rearrangements, such as those associated with the echinoderm microtubule‐associated protein‐like 4 (EML‐4) anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK) fusion gene (the major focus of this paper) has allowed clinicians to tailor therapy to target these mutations. The challenge that faces clinicians treating lung cancer is how best to implement the science that sits behind these targeted therapies in clinical practice through the identification of appropriate patients. Precision medicine can lead to the choice of the right medicine for the right patients and is proving to be a better approach than treating unselected patients with systemic chemotherapy.
From autophagy to senescence and apoptosis in Angiotensin II‐treated vascular endothelial cells
Authors: Shan Haiyan , Guo Dawei , Li Xuelian , Zhao Xin , Li Wan , Bai Xiaojuan
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to explore if cell autophagy is activated by AngII before aging using human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVECs). The ultrastructural analysis of HUVECs was performed to observe autophagosomes. The LC3‐II/LC3‐I ratio was determined by western blot assay. The β‐gal staining was used to identify cell senescence. The flow cytometry was performed to evaluate cell apoptosis. The BH3 domain analog ABT737 or Beclin‐1 knockdown by specific shRNA or valsartan was applied to investigate their effects on cell autophagy, senescence, and apoptosis induced by Ang II. Cell autophagy was initiated after Ang II treatment at 24 h. And cell senescence and apoptosis were observed in Ang II‐treated cells at 48 h. The significant interaction of Beclin‐1 and Bcl‐2 was detected at 48 h after Ang II treatment. Beclin‐1 was indispensable to Ang II‐induced autophagy, and its BH3 domain was required for the interaction with Bcl‐2 to attenuate autophagy. Pretreated with valsartan, cells were present with less autophagic, senescent, and apoptotic cells after Ang II stimulation. In conclusion, Ang II induced autophagy, senescence, and apoptosis of HUVECs progressively, and autophagy presented an early protective effect on vascular endothelial damage due to Ang II.
Forkhead transcription factor FOXO1 inhibits nuclear factor‐κB in gastric cancer
Authors: Yu Da‐Ae , Yoon Jiyeon , Ko Young San , Park Jinju , Kim Sue Youn , Kim Min A , Kim Ji Hun , Jung Jieun , Cheon Younghee , Lee Hye Seung , Kim Woo Ho , Lee Byung Lan
Published: March 2014

FOXO1, a forkhead box O (FOXO) transcription factor, and nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) are prognostically significant transcription factors in gastric cancer. As their relationship has been inconsistent depending on the cell type, we aimed to investigate whether FOXO1 is associated with NF‐κB p65 (RelA) in gastric cancer. Immunohistochemistry was performed on tissue array slides containing 298 gastric carcinoma specimens. We found that the cytoplasmic expression of pFOXO1, the inactive form of FOXO1, was positively correlated with nuclear RelA expression (p = 0.024). In addition, the expressions of pFOXO1 and RelA were positively related with cyclin D1 expression (p = 0.014 and p = 0.001, respectively) and Ki‐67 labeling index (p = 0.025 and p = 0.017, respectively). However, they did not show association with the expressions of cyclin E, p53 and pRb. Cell culture experiments showed that FOXO1 overexpression by transfection of FOXO1 AAA mutant gene suppressed NF‐κB activation in SNU‐484 gastric cancer cells. These results suggest that FOXO1 and NF‐κB are negatively associated and that FOXO1 is a negative upstream regulator of NF‐κB in gastric cancer.
The role of mitochondria in mTOR‐regulated longevity
Authors: Wei Yuehua , Zhang Yan‐Jie , Cai Ying , Xu Mang‐Hua
Published: March 2014

Several unbiased genome‐wide RNA interference (RNAi) screens have pointed to mitochondrial metabolism as the major factor for lifespan regulation. However, conflicting data remain to be clarified concerning the mitochondrial free radical theory of aging (MFRTA). Recently, mTOR (mechanistic target of rapamycin) has been proposed to be the central regulator of aging although how mTOR modulates lifespan is poorly understood. Interestingly, mTOR has been shown to regulate many aspects of mitochondrial function, such as mitochondrial biogenesis, apoptosis, mitophagy and mitochondrial hormesis (mitohormesis) including the retrograde response and mitochondrial unfolded protein response (mito‐UPR). Here we discuss the data linking mitochondrial metabolism to mTOR regulation of lifespan, suggesting that hormetic effects may be key to explaining some controversial results regarding the MFRTA. We also discuss the possibility that dysfunction of mitochondrial adaptive responses rather than free radicals per se contributes to the aging process.
Plant invasions are context‐dependent: multiscale effects of climate, human activity and habitat
Authors: González‐Moreno Pablo , Diez Jeffrey M. , Ibáñez Inés , Font Xavier , Vilà Montserrat
Published: March 2014

Aim

Understanding the conditions that promote biological invasions is a critical step to developing successful management strategies. However, the level of invasion is affected by complex interactions among environmental factors that might change across habitats and regions making broad generalizations uninformative for management. We aimed to quantify the context‐dependent association of climate and human activity at landscape scale (i.e. disturbance and propagule pressure) with the level of plant invasion at local scale across different stages of invasion, habitat types and bioclimatic regions.

Location

Mainland Spain.

Methods

Based on an extensive database of vegetation plots (~50,000), we used hierarchical Bayesian models to test how climate and human activity at a landscape scale (i.e. land‐cover variables) are associated with establishment (i.e. presence) and dominance (i.e. relative species richness and abundance in invaded plots) of non‐native plants across nine habitat types and three bioclimatic regions.

Results

The association of climate with establishment and dominance of non‐native plants varied depending on habitat type but not bioclimatic region. These associations also varied depending on the stage of invasion under consideration. Establishment of non‐native species was more likely close to the coast, while their dominance increased in wet and warm continental areas. Human activity variables were associated with establishment and dominance similarly across bioclimatic regions. Non‐native species establishment and abundance peaked in human‐altered landscapes. Different habitats showed different susceptibilities to establishment versus dominance by non‐native species (e.g. woodlands had medium levels of establishment, but very low dominance).

Main conclusions

This study highlights how complex interactions among climate, human activity and habitats can determine patterns of invasions across broad landscapes. Successful management of plant invasions will depend on understanding these context‐dependent effects across habitats at the different stages of the invasion process.
Reported outcomes of lower limb orthopaedic surgery in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: a mapping review
Authors: Wilson Nichola C , Chong Jimmy , Mackey Anna H , Stott Ngaire S
Published: March 2014

Aim

Lower limb surgery is often performed in ambulatory children with cerebral palsy (CP) to improve walking ability. This mapping review reports on outcome measures used in the published literature to assess surgical results, determine range and frequency of use, and map each measure to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health.

Method

A mapped review of literature published between 1990 and 2011 was carried out to identify papers reporting the outcomes of lower limb orthopaedic surgery in ambulatory children with CP, aged 0 to 20 years.

Results

A total of 229 published papers met the inclusion criteria. Thirty‐two outcome measures with known psychometric properties were reported in the 229 papers. Twenty measures assess impairments in body structure and function and were used in 91% of studies. Ten measures assess restrictions in activity and participation and were used in 9% of papers. Two measures assessed quality of life. Since 1997, 29% of papers have used the Gross Motor Function Classification System to describe participants.

Interpretation

The body of literature evaluating outcomes of lower limb orthopaedic surgery in CP is small but increasing. There is a need to develop a suite of outcome measures that better reflect outcomes across the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health, including activity and participation.
R&D AND CREDIT RATIONING IN SMEs
Authors: Mancusi Maria Luisa , Vezzulli Andrea
Published: March 2014

We study the effects of credit rationing on research and development (R&D) investment using survey and accounting data on a large representative sample of manufacturing small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises (SMEs). Our econometric model accounts for the endogeneity of our credit rationing indicator and employs an innovative theory‐based identification strategy. We find that credit rationing has a significantly negative effect on both the probability to set up R&D activities and on the level of R&D spending (conditioned on the R&D decision), but the overall estimated reduction in R&D spending is largely to be associated with the first effect. (JEL G21, D82, O32, C35)
Early intervention in psychosis: a feasibility study financed by the Italian Center on Control of Maladies
Authors: Cocchi Angelo , Balbi Andrea , Corlito Giuseppe , Ditta Guido , Di Munzio Walter , Nicotera Mario , Meneghelli Anna , Pisano Alessia , Preti Antonio
Published: March 2014

Aim

In November 2005 the Italian Center on Control of Maladies, a department operating under the Ministry of Health, financed a project aimed at evaluating the feasibility of a protocol of intervention based on the early intervention in psychosis (EIP) model within the Italian public mental health‐care network.

Methods

The study was carried out between March 2007 and December 2009. It involved five centres operating under the Departments of Mental Health of Milan (Programma 2000), Rome (area D), Grosseto, Salerno (Nocera) and Catanzaro (Soverato).

Results

Enrolment lasted 12 months, at the end of which 43 patients were enrolled as first‐episode psychosis (FEP), and 24 subjects as ultra high‐risk (UHR) patients. Both FEP and UHR samples included a preponderance of male patients. A family history of psychosis was rarely reported in both samples. The FEP incidence rate was lower than expected on the basis of international estimates of the incidence of schizophrenia but within the expected figure for the estimated Italian rates in three centres out of five.

Conclusions

Overall, the study proved that an EIP centre can be established within the public Department of Mental Health to reach a good fraction of the cases in need of treatment. Since then, several studies have been set up to assess the feasibility of EIP in the Italian public mental health sector in Lombardy and Tuscany, and in 2012 the Emilia‐Romagna Regional Authority started an educational plan aimed at implementing the EIP model in all the Mental Health Departments in the region.
Selective modulation of motor cortical plasticity during voluntary contraction of the antagonist muscle
Authors: Fang Jhih‐Hong , Huang Ying‐Zu , Hwang Ing‐Shiou , Chen Jia‐Jin J.
Published: March 2014

A fundamental approach for resolving motor deficits in patients suffering from various neurological diseases is to improve the impaired cortical function through the modulation of plasticity. In order to advance clinical practice in this regard, it is necessary to better understand the interactions that occur between functional neuromuscular activity and the resulting cortical plasticity. This study tested whether the voluntary contraction of an antagonist muscle modulates the plasticity‐like effect of continuous theta burst stimulation (cTBS) recorded from the agonist. The effects of various opposing torques produced by the antagonist were also measured. As a result, the suppressing effect of cTBS was enhanced by mild antagonist contraction, whereas effortful antagonist contraction suspended the plasticity caused by cTBS. In contrast, the antagonist contractions right after cTBS did not significantly influence the effect of cTBS. The results indicate that the antagonist activity alters the effect of cTBS, especially in protocols with synchronous magnetic stimulation and antagonist contraction. Such modulation on cTBS may be through a reciprocal mechanism within the motor cortex, although the spinal regulation of the motoneuronal pool cannot be fully excluded. The present findings are beneficial for elucidating the mechanism of neuromuscular control and for resolving related neurological disorders.
Prevalence of halitosis in children considering oral hygiene, gender and age
Authors: Villa A , Zollanvari A , Alterovitz G , Cagetti MG , Strohmenger L , Abati S
Published: March 2014

Background

To date, few studies have addressed halitosis in the paediatric population. As such, the aim of the present study was to investigate symptoms, signs and risk factors associated with halitosis in healthy children and to present a model based on the clinical data that predicts the presence of halitosis.

Methods

A total of 101 individuals were included. All patients received a questionnaire that queried on sociodemographic characteristics, self‐reported halitosis and dental treatment history. Individuals received a thorough intra‐oral examination, and the volatile sulphur compounds (VSC) were measured to test the presence of halitosis with a portable sulphide monitor (Halimeter®; Interscan Co., Chatsworth, CA, USA). The distribution of the sociodemographic characteristics, self‐reported halitosis, dental treatment history and other oral features was evaluated. Finally, a statistical model was constructed with the best set of features to predict halitosis in children.

Results

The median age was 12.0 years (mean: 11.7 ± SD 2.7) with 54.5% males. Halitosis (VSC > 100 parts per billion, or ppb) was objectively measured in 37.6% of patients. For comparison purposes, Bayesian network was obtained using clinical and demographic data. The model consisted of four variables (sex, age, oral hygiene status and self‐reported halitosis) directly related to the presence of halitosis (VSC > 100 ppb). This model achieved 76.4% area under receiver operating characteristics curve (AUROC). Overall, female patients or individuals with dental plaque on more than 25% of the dental surfaces or patients older than 13 year old were more prone to present with halitosis.

Conclusions

The results suggest that halitosis in the paediatric population is related to poor oral hygiene and may be more common in females and older individuals. This specific predictive model may be useful to identify subgroups to target for intervention to treat oral halitosis.
Coping with English: students' perceptions of their teachers' linguistic competence in undergraduate science teaching
Authors: Studer Patrick
Published: March 2014

This paper addresses the question of how undergraduate students negotiate linguistic competence of their university lecturers following the switch of the classroom medium of instruction from German to English. Emphasizing the concept of intersubjectivity in classroom communities of practice, this paper aims at revealing interpretative repertoires underlying the students' display of the lecturers' communicative behaviour. Discussing selected scenes from two science lectures with undergraduate students, the paper shows that the successful implementation of English‐medium instruction crucially depends on the lecturers' ability to negotiate communicative‐didactic rather than linguistic competence.
Clinical characteristics of foot ulceration in people with chronic gout
Authors: Rome Keith , Erikson Kathryn , Otene Cynthia , Sahid Hazra , Sangster Karyn , Gow Peter
Published: March 2014

Gout is the most common form of inflammatory arthritis and it has an affliction to the foot. Foot involvement in gout has been linked to foot pain, impairment and disability. There has been limited research on the effect of ulceration on foot pain, impairment, disability and health‐related quality of life in patients already living with gout. The aim of the study was to describe the wound characteristics and the effect on foot pain, disability and health‐related quality of life in patients with foot ulceration associated with gout. Participants were recruited from rheumatology clinics in Auckland, New Zealand. All the current foot ulceration sites and wound characteristics were recorded using the TIME wound assessment tool. The outcome measures included general pain, patient global assessment scale, foot pain, disability and impairment. Participants completed the Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule to assess the effect of ulcers on health‐related quality of life. Sensory loss, vibrational thresholds and ankle brachial pressure index were collated to assess for lower limb arterial disease. Six participants were predominantly older men with a long duration of gout, high rates of obesity and co‐morbidities such as hypertension, hyperlipidaemia, diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The mean (SD) duration of the foot ulcers was 4 (2) months. The majority of foot ulcers observed were 0·5 cm2 or smaller superficial thickness with surrounding callus. Partial thickness and full‐thickness ulcers were also observed. Two patients presented with ulcers on multiple sites. There was only one case of infection. Gouty tophi were evident in most of the wounds. The dorsal aspect of the third toe was found to ulcerate in most cases. Moderate scores of foot pain, disability, impairment and health‐related quality of life were observed. Most participants wore shoes deemed as poor. Foot ulceration in gout is chronic and multiple ulcers can occur with the potential of leading to delayed wound healing, infection and a reduced quality of life. Poor footwear may contribute to the development and delayed healing of ulceration in people with gout.
Spontaneous and Adenosine‐Induced Pulmonary Vein Reconnection After Cryoballoon Ablation with the Second‐Generation Device
Authors: CICONTE GIUSEPPE , CHIERCHIA GIAN‐BATTISTA , DE ASMUNDIS CARLO , SIEIRA JUAN , CONTE GIULIO , JULIÁ JUSTO , DI GIOVANNI GIACOMO , WAUTERS KRISTEL , BALTOGIANNIS GIANNIS , SAITOH YUKIO , MUGNAI GIACOMO , CATANZARITI DOMENICO , TONDO CLAUDIO , BRUGADA PEDRO
Published: March 2014

Second‐generation Cryoballoon Ablation and Pulmonary Vein Reconnections

Introduction

Longer observational time and adenosine challenge have proven to be able to detect pulmonary vein (PV) reconnections. The aim of this study was to assess incidence of spontaneous and adenosine‐induced PV reconnection after ablation with second‐generation cryoballoon (CB‐Adv).

Methods and Results

Fifty consecutive patients (76% male, mean age 60.5 ± 11.9 years) having undergone PV isolation (PVI) using the CB‐Adv were enrolled. After isolation, reconnections were evaluated using the Achieve catheter over 30 minutes observation and adenosine administration during isoproterenol infusion (adenosine challenge). Among 200 PVs, isolation was achieved in 190 (95%) during the first application. Lower nadir temperature and longer rewarming time were associated with successful PVI (P = 0.02 and 0.04). Spontaneous (4 veins) and adenosine‐induced (4 veins) PV reconnections occurred in the 4% of initially isolated veins (8 veins) in 6 patients (12%). At receiver–operator curve analysis, nadir temperature <–51 °C and rewarming time >28 seconds identified absence of reconnections (sensitivity 100% and 87%, area under the curve 0.75 and 0.72). Patients with right‐sided early branching frequently experienced reconnections (P < 0.01). After a mean follow‐up of 7.0 ± 1.7 months, 86% of patients were free from atrial fibrillation. None of those with PV reconnections experienced recurrences.

Conclusions

The incidence of spontaneous and adenosine‐induced PV reconnection following ablation with the novel CB‐Adv is very low occurring in 4% of initially isolated veins. Nadir temperature <−51 °C and rewarming time >28 seconds identified absence of acute reconnections, thus avoiding prolonged waiting time and adenosine challenge in such cases.
A SURVEY OF RECENT RESEARCH IN CHINESE ECONOMIC HISTORY
Authors: Deng Kent
Published: March 2014

In the past two decades or so, the field of Chinese economic history has become bigger, more colourful, and more diversified than ever before. This article reviews the new development in scholarship in the filed of Chinese economic history. Apart from the lingering debate on China's performance in pre‐modern times (pre‐1750), China's growth and development in the 19th and 20th centuries has attracted more scholarly attention and thus has become increasingly more important in the understanding of China.
Hybrid molecules inhibiting myeloperoxidase activity and serotonin reuptake: a possible new approach of major depressive disorders with inflammatory syndrome
Authors: Soubhye Jalal , Aldib Iyas , Prévost Martine , Elfving Betina , Gelbcke Michel , Podrecca Manuel , Conotte Raphaël , Colet Jean-Marie , Furtmüller Paul G , Delporte Cédric , Rousseau Alexandre , Vanhaeverbeek Michel , Nève Jean , Obinger Christian , Zouaoui-Boudjeltia Karim , Van Antwerpen Pierre , Dufrasne François
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is accompanied with an imbalance in the immune system and cardiovascular impairments, such as atherosclerosis. Several mechanisms have been pointed out to underlie this rather unexpected association, and among them the activity of myeloperoxidase (MPO). The aim of our study was to find compounds that inhibit both MPO and serotonin transporter (SERT) for treating MDD associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Methods

SERT inhibition was assessed with measuring of [3H]-serotonin uptake using HEK-293 MSR cells. MPO inhibition was determined by taurine chloramine test on 3-(aminoalkyl)-5-fluoroindole derivatives and on clinically relevant antidepressants. All kinetic measurements were performed using a temperature-controlled stopped-flow apparatus (model SX-18 MV). Promising lead compounds were docked onto SERT 3D structure modelled using the LeuT structure complexed to tryptophan (PDB code 3F3A). Their toxicological profile was also assessed.

Key findings

3-(aminoalkyl)-5-fluoroindole derivative with 5 carbons on the side chain and paroxetine showed the best activity on both MPO and SERT at the nanomolar range. Paroxetine was found to be the first irreversible MPO inhibitor at nanomolar concentrations.

Conclusions

Our results put forward the first hybrid molecule (compound 25) and drug (paroxetine) that can be especially used in MDD associated with inflammatory syndrome.
Comparative study on novel test systems to determine disintegration time of orodispersible films
Authors: Preis Maren , Gronkowsky Dorothee , Grytzan Dominik , Breitkreutz Jörg
Published: March 2014

Objectives

Orodispersible films (ODFs) are a promising innovative dosage form enabling drug administration without the need for water and minimizing danger of aspiration due to their fast disintegration in small amounts of liquid. This study focuses on the development of a disintegration test system for ODFs.

Methods

Two systems were developed and investigated: one provides an electronic end-point, and the other shows a transferable setup of the existing disintegration tester for orodispersible tablets. Different ODF preparations were investigated to determine the suitability of the disintegration test systems. The use of different test media and the impact of different storage conditions of ODFs on their disintegration time were additionally investigated.

Key findings

The experiments showed acceptable reproducibility (low deviations within sample replicates due to a clear determination of the measurement end-point). High temperatures and high humidity affected some of the investigated ODFs, resulting in higher disintegration time or even no disintegration within the tested time period.

Conclusions

The methods provided clear end-point detection and were applicable for different types of ODFs. By the modification of a conventional test system to enable application for films, a standard method could be presented to ensure uniformity in current quality control settings.
Laser-engineered dissolving microneedle arrays for protein delivery: potential for enhanced intradermal vaccination
Authors: McCrudden Maelíosa T C , Torrisi Barbara M , Al-Zahrani Sharifah , McCrudden Cian M , Zaric Marija , Scott Christopher J , Kissenpfennig Adrien , McCarthy Helen O , Donnelly Ryan F
Published: March 2014

Objectives

We aimed to highlight the utility of novel dissolving microneedle (MN)-based delivery systems for enhanced transdermal protein delivery. Vaccination remains the most accepted and effective approach in offering protection from infectious diseases. In recent years, much interest has focused on the possibility of using minimally invasive MN technologies to replace conventional hypodermic vaccine injections.

Methods

The focus of this study was exploitation of dissolving MN array devices fabricated from 20% w/w poly(methyl vinyl ether/maleic acid) using a micromoulding technique, for the facilitated delivery of a model antigen, ovalbumin (OVA).

Key findings

A series of in-vitro and in-vivo experiments were designed to demonstrate that MN arrays loaded with OVA penetrated the stratum corneum and delivered their payload systemically. The latter was evidenced by the activation of both humoral and cellular inflammatory responses in mice, indicated by the production of immunoglobulins (IgG, IgG1, IgG2a) and inflammatory cytokines, specifically interferon-gamma and interleukin-4. Importantly, the structural integrity of the OVA following incorporation into the MN arrays was maintained.

Conclusion

While enhanced manufacturing strategies are required to improve delivery efficiency and reduce waste, dissolving MN are a promising candidate for ‘reduced-risk’ vaccination and protein delivery strategies.
Maternal attention and preterm infant feeding
Authors: Brown Lisa F. , Pickler Rita H. , Wetzel Paul A.
Published: March 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to explore the relationships among the mother's internal working model of feeding, attentional process, feeding behaviors, and responsiveness accounting for maternal psychological distress, which may contribute to preterm infants' feeding difficulties.

Design and Methods

In this descriptive study, 21 mother–preterm infant dyads were videotaped during feeding.

Results

Surprisingly, the internal working model of feeding was a significant negative predictor of maternal feeding behaviors and maternal attention. All other correlations were non‐significant.

Conclusions

Given the early timing of the data collection, it is possible that mothers had not developed a frame of reference of their infant as a person. Research to help further understand factors and timing affecting maternal feeding behaviors is needed.
Does distance between aquatic plant assemblages matter in defining similarity between them during high water‐level periods?
Authors: de Paiva José de Ribamar A. , Matias Lígia Q. , Martins Fernando R. , Becker Helena
Published: March 2014

Aquatic environments are subject to natural water‐level fluctuations. These fluctuations, in turn, are responsible for causing changes in biota in the aquatic environment, particularly those that colonize floodplains. The flood pulse concept predicts that water‐level fluctuations are responsible for the formation of mosaics in biota at a small scale. During high water‐level periods, however, there is evidence that the similarity among biological assemblages increases. Within this theoretical context, the present study focuses on determining whether or not the spatial distance between assemblages is a relevant factor for the similarity among them during high water‐level periods and, if not, what environmental variables are associated with them? Accordingly, the present study evaluated the association between aquatic plant assemblages and some environmental variables, with emphasis on the spatial distance among assemblages. The study results indicated no association between the similarity of the assemblages and the spatial distances between them. The environmental variables most associated with the assemblages were the total phosphorus and nitrate concentrations. It was concluded that, during high water‐level periods, the spatial distance between aquatic plant assemblages was not a relevant factor for greater similarity among them. Rather, the total phosphorus and nitrate concentrations were the environmental factors most associated with the assemblages.
The myths and realities in the management of the Kapenta fishery at Lake Kariba (Zimbabwe)
Authors: Nyikahadzoi Kefasi , Raakjær Jesper
Published: March 2014

Biological considerations have dominated the management of the Kapenta fishery since its inception. State fisheries' managers employed the traditional scientific models that proved useful in managing temperate fisheries. This study uses both secondary and primary data to discuss the problems of using scientific models to manage tropical river‐fed lakes. Where fish stock size fluctuates in response to environmental factors such as river flows and lake level (which influence the level of nutrients in the water body), the concepts of maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and maximum economic yield (MEY) become problematic. This study demonstrated that, in an unstable environment, and where the target species is resilient to high levels of fishing effort, biological models lose their predictive power, allowing the state to determine the proportion of the resource to be distributed among its nationals. The redistribution of access rights or fishing licences (as a way of redressing a legacy of an unequal distribution of resources between emerging local entrepreneurs and companies established during the colonial era) is a major management issue in Zimbabwe. This study uses historical appraisal to illustrate how biological growth models failed to determine the optimal level of fishery exploitation upon which informed decisions could be made regarding whether to redistribute fish access rights or to broaden participation (or just recruit more fishers into the industry). This study also investigates tensions between the industry (advocating for broadening of access) and the state (seeking to redistribute existing resource use rights). Each stakeholder group has evoked institutions and discourses supporting their positions in influencing the strategies to eliminate the existing imbalances.
Aspergillus tracheobronchitis in critically ill patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases
Authors: He Hangyong , Jiang Shan , Zhang Li , Sun Bing , Li Fang , Zhan Qingyuan , Wang Chen
Published: March 2014

Aspergillus tracheobronchitis (ATB) is considered as an unusual form of invasive aspergillosis and has a fatal outcome. There is little current information on several aspects of chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPD) complicated by ATB, the frequency of which is expected to increase in the coming years. In a prospective study of invasive bronchial‐pulmonary aspergillosis (IBPA) in a critically ill COPD population, three proven cases of ATB were identified. The three new cases, combined with eight previously reported cases of COPD with ATB over a 30‐year period (1983–2013), were analysed. Among 153 critically ill COPD patients admitted to the ICU, eight cases were complicated by ATB [23.5% of IBPA (8 of 34); and 5.2% of COPD (8 of 153)], and three cases were finally diagnosed as proven ATB by histopathological findings. Among the three new cases reported and the eight published cases, the overall mortality rate was 72.7% (8 of 11 cases), with a median of 11.5 days (range, 7–27 days) between admission to death. The mortality rate was significantly higher in patients with invasive pulmonary aspergillosis (IPA) [100% (8 of 8 patients)] than in patients without parenchyma invasion [0% (0 of 3 patient), P = 0.006]. Seven patients (77.8%) received systemic corticosteroid therapy and three patients (33.3%) inhaled corticosteroids before diagnosis with ATB. Dyspnoea resistant to corticosteroids (77.8%) was the most frequent symptom. The radiological manifestations progressed rapidly in three patients (75%) who had normal chest X‐rays (CXRs) at admission. Pseudomembranous lesions were the most frequent form (54.5%) observed by bronchoscopy. Aspergillus fumigatus was the most frequently isolated pathogen (40%). ATB is an uncommon cause of exacerbation in approximately 5% of critically ill COPD patients admitted to the ICU, and may progress rapidly to IPA with a high mortality rate. Dyspnoea resistant to corticosteroids and appropriate antibiotics with a negative CXR should raise the suspicion of ATB. Early diagnosis of ATB is based on bronchoscopic examination and proven diagnosis maybe safely established with a bronchial mucous biopsy.
Understanding the genetic control and physiological traits associated with rhizosheath production by barley (Hordeum vulgare)
Authors: George Timothy S. , Brown Lawrie K. , Ramsay Luke , White Philip J. , Newton Adrian C. , Bengough A. Glyn , Russell Joanne , Thomas William T. B.
Published: March 2014

There is an urgent need for simple rapid screens of root traits that improve the acquisition of nutrients and water. Temperate cereals produce rhizosheaths of variable weight, a trait first noted on desert species sampled by Tansley over 100 yr ago. This trait is almost certainly important in tolerance to abiotic stress.

Here, we screened association genetics populations of barley for rhizosheath weight and derived quantitative trait loci (QTLs) and candidate genes. We assessed whether rhizosheath weight was correlated with plant performance and phosphate uptake under combined drought and phosphorus deficiency. Rhizosheath weight was investigated in relation to root hair length, and under both laboratory and field conditions.

Our data demonstrated that rhizosheath weight was correlated with phosphate uptake under dry conditions and that the differences in rhizosheath weight between genotypes were maintained in the field. Rhizosheath weight also varied significantly within barley populations, was correlated with root hair length and was associated with a genetic locus (QTL) on chromosome 2H. Putative candidate genes were identified.

Rhizosheath weight is easy and rapid to measure, and is associated with relatively high heritability. The breeding of cereal genotypes for beneficial rhizosheath characteristics is achievable and could contribute to agricultural sustainability in nutrient‐ and water‐stressed environments.
The Priority of the Now
Authors: Baron Sam
Published: March 2014

This article motivates and develops a new theory of time: priority presentism. Priority presentism is the view according to which (i) only present entities exist fundamentally and (ii) past and future entities exist, but they are grounded in the present. The articulation of priority presentism is an exercise in applied grounding: it draws on concepts from the recent literature on ontological dependence and applies those concepts in a new way, to the philosophy of time. The result, as I will argue, is an attractive position that can do much of the same work in satisfying our intuitions about time as presentism, but without the ontological cost.
Managing Mismatch Between Belief and Behavior
Authors: Tumulty Maura
Published: March 2014

Our behavior doesn't always match the beliefs attributed to us, and sometimes the mismatch raises questions about what our beliefs actually are. I compare two approaches to such cases, and argue in favor of the one which allows some belief‐attributions to lack a determinate truth‐value. That approach avoids an inappropriate assumption about cognitive activity: namely, that whenever we fail in performing one cognitive activity, there is a distinct cognitive activity at which we succeed. The indeterminacy‐allowing approach also meshes well with an attractive view of folk‐psychology: that ascriptions can help shape the attitudes they report.
On What We are and How We Persist
Authors: Langford Simon
Published: March 2014

This article defends novel approaches to what we are and how we persist. First it is claimed that we have disjunctive persistence conditions: we can persist by way of either biological continuity or psychological continuity. Then it is claimed that we are neither human beings nor persons essentially. Rather, we are essentially bio‐psycho‐continuers, a concept to be explained along the way. A variety of objections are considered and found wanting.
Experiences of self‐practice/self‐reflection in cognitive behavioural therapy: A meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies
Authors: Gale Corinne , Schröder Thomas
Published: March 2014

Background

Self‐practice/self‐reflection is a valuable training strategy which involves therapists applying therapeutic techniques to themselves, and reflecting on the process.

Purpose

To undertake a meta‐synthesis of qualitative studies exploring therapists' experiences of self‐practice/self‐reflection in cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). This would integrate, and interpret, the current literature in order to develop a new understanding, and contribute to the development of CBT training programmes.

Methods

The meta‐synthesis encompassed three distinct phases: undertaking a comprehensive and systematic literature search; critically appraising the papers; and synthesising the data using the meta‐ethnographic method.

Results

The literature search identified 378 papers, ten met the criteria for inclusion. After critical appraisal, all were included in the synthesis. The synthesis identified 14 constructs, which fell into three broad categories: ‘experience of self‐practice/self‐reflection’; ‘outcomes of self‐practice/self‐reflection’; and ‘implications for training’. This synthesis found that self‐practice allows therapists to put themselves into their clients' shoes, experiencing the benefits that therapy can bring but also the problems that clients can run in to. This experience increases therapists' empathy for their clients, allowing them to draw on their own experiences in therapy. As a result, therapists tend to feel both more confident in themselves and more competent as a therapist. The self‐practice/self‐reflection process was facilitated by reflective writing and working with others, particularly peers.

Conclusions

Self‐practice/self‐reflection is a valuable training strategy in CBT, which has a range of beneficial outcomes. It can also be used as a means of continuing personal and professional development.

Practitioner points

Self‐practice of CBT techniques, and reflecting on the process, can be a useful training strategy and helpful for ongoing development

Therapists could consider developing a ‘self‐case’ study, rather than using the exercises as one‐off techniques, recording reflections in writing, and sharing reflections with peers.

Self‐practice/self‐reflection can be particularly helpful for increasing empathy for clients, highlighting the difficulties they may encounter.
Preliminary Ultrasonication Affects the Rate of the Bacteriorhodopsin Bleaching and the Effectiveness of the Reconstitution Process in Bacterioopsin
Authors: Druzhko Anna B. , Pirutin Sergey K.
Published: March 2014

The formation process of polymer films based on bacteriorhodopsin (BR) analogs requests a high amount of BR samples one time only. The common technique for apomembrane formation (preparation of bacterioopsin, BO) is not designed to be operated with high concentrations and high volumes of BR, so the use of this technique results in a low rate of BR bleaching. To accelerate the process of BR bleaching preliminary sonication was used. It was used just as preliminary sonication before bleaching of BR samples, so also sonication was used before reconstitution of resulted BO samples. These modifications of the common technique lead to an acceleration of BR bleaching and an increase in effectiveness of reconstitution of BO in comparison with the nonmodified technique. The quantitative results of sonication's effect on the bleaching acceleration and the effectiveness of reconstitution are different depending on the BR strains.
Validity of Birth Certificate‐Derived Maternal Weight Data
Authors: Bodnar Lisa M. , Abrams Barbara , Bertolet Marnie , Gernand Alison D. , Parisi Sara M. , Himes Katherine P. , Lash Timothy L.
Published: March 2014

Background

Studies using vital records‐based maternal weight data have become more common, but the validity of these data is uncertain.

Methods

We evaluated the accuracy of prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and gestational weight gain (GWG) reported on birth certificates using medical record data in 1204 births at a teaching hospital in Pennsylvania from 2003 to 2010. Deliveries at this hospital were representative of births statewide with respect to BMI, GWG, race/ethnicity, and preterm birth. Forty‐eight strata were created by simultaneous stratification on prepregnancy BMI (underweight, normal weight/overweight, obese class 1, obese classes 2 and 3), GWG (<20th, 20–80th, >80th percentile), race/ethnicity (non‐Hispanic white, non‐Hispanic black), and gestational age (term, preterm).

Results

The agreement of birth certificate‐derived prepregnancy BMI category with medical record BMI category was highest in the normal weight/overweight and obese class 2 and 3 groups. Agreement varied from 52% to 100% across racial/ethnic and gestational age strata. GWG category from the birth registry agreed with medical records for 41–83% of deliveries, and agreement tended to be the poorest for very low and very high GWG. The misclassification of GWG was driven by errors in reported prepregnancy weight rather than maternal weight at delivery, and its magnitude depended on prepregnancy BMI category and gestational age at delivery.

Conclusions

Maternal weight data, particularly at the extremes, are poorly reported on birth certificates. Investigators should devote resources to well‐designed validation studies, the results of which can be used to adjust for measurement errors by bias analysis.
The Activation and Inactivation of Mature CD4 T cells: A Case for Peripheral Self–Nonself Discrimination
Authors: Bretscher P. A.
Published: March 2014

The establishment of central tolerance to most self‐antigens results in a repertoire of mature peripheral lymphocytes specific for foreign and peripheral self‐antigens. The framework that single, mature lymphocytes are inactivated by antigen, whereas their activation requires lymphocyte cooperation, accounts for diverse observations and incorporates a mechanism of peripheral tolerance. This framework accounts for the generalizations that the sustained activation by antigen of most B cells and CD8 T cells requires CD4 T helper cells; in the absence of CD4 T cells, antigen can inactivate these B cells and CD8 T cells. In this sense, CD4 T cells are the guardians of the fate of most B cells and CD8 T cells when they encounter antigen. I argue here that the single‐lymphocyte/multiple‐lymphocyte framework for the inactivation/activation of lymphocytes also applies to CD4 T cells. I consider within this framework a model for the activation/inactivation of CD4 T cells that is consistent with the large majority of contemporary observations, including significant clinical observations. I outline the grounds why I feel this model is more plausible than the contemporary and predominant pathogen‐associated molecular pattern (PAMP) and Danger Models for CD4 T cell activation. These models are based upon what I consider the radical premise that self–nonself discrimination does not exist at the level of mature CD4 T cells. I explain why I feel this feature renders the PAMP and Danger Models somewhat implausible. The model I propose, in contrast, is conservative in that it embodies such a process of self–nonself discrimination.