bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Higher education conference attendendance and engagement with the scholarship of teaching and learning: a Welsh perspective
Authors: Haslett Simon K.
Published: January 2011

There are a number of indicators of academic engagement with the scholarship of teaching and learning (SoTL) that have been used in previous studies, such as analysing journal publications. However, this snapshot survey uses attendance at higher education conferences as a measure. Attendances were analysed at three conferences in the UK between July‐December 2008. The country in which each conference delegate was based and (for Wales only) their institution, was recorded. The results indicate that there were 991 attendances including delegates from 33 countries. The Annual Conference of the Society for Research into Higher Education had the most international delegates (from 32 countries), compared to two conferences run by (or in association with) the Higher Education Academy, both with delegates from seven countries. Delegates from English institutions dominated all conferences, followed by Wales, Australia, Scotland and Ireland. It is estimated that to raise conference attendance by Welsh academics to the same proportion as English academics, an increase of 25 per cent would be required. Of the 11 Welsh institutions analysed, the four ranked top are all regarded as teaching‐focused universities, whilst the tail comprises three universities regarded as research‐intensive. The four remaining Welsh institutions did not have any representation at any of the conferences studied. Although limitations of this study are discussed, the data may be used to inform strategy for further engagement with SoTL in Wales and elsewhere.
The changing nature of students’ social experience within university
Authors: Fitzgibbon Karen , Prior Julie
Published: January 2011

This paper outlines the development of an online learner support tool “Early Days” and the information it subsequently provided into one aspect of the early experiences of students in the case study university. Analysis is based on two years of data that considered the extent of students’ social integration and emerging changes in the nature of their social experiences. Findings indicate that the majority of students enjoy the social side of higher education and feel they have settled into the university, but conversely they are not gaining this social experience through traditional social activities such as clubs and societies. Whilst the data offers a picture of one university, other higher education institutions may be interested in considering whether the changes are replicated in their own institutions. The current trend by the National Union of Students to move away from alcohol‐based events suggests that this may be the case. The paper raises the need for further research into the the changing nature of students’ social experience within university and suggests one challenge may be to consider the role of universities in providing students with a blended and positive social experience in the future.
Development of a foundation degree in music retail management: a case study partnership beteen a university and Roland UK
Authors: Carr Paul
Published: January 2011

This paper discusses the academic, governmental and logistical issues surrounding the University of Glamorgan’s recent involvement in developing accredited training and education for one of the largest music technology manufacturers in the world – Roland UK. The paper reports the joint development of a Foundation Degree in Music Retail Management, reflecting upon the viability of implementing work based learning (WBL), including accrediting current training and prior learning (APL). Through analysing the early stages of the project, the paper aims to formulate a clearer perspective of what the University of Glamorgan and Roland UK, in addition to the government and the music retail industry, actually require from a foundation degree such as this. After presenting a synopsis of the current political climate and contextualising the existing status of musical instrument retail training, an overview is provided of the development of the Roland/Glamorgan partnership. This is followed by a discussion of the philosophical debates and mechanisms currently surrounding the implementation and accreditation of WBL. The paper cumulates with the development of a pedagogical model that takes into account the quality issues of both the University of Glamorgan and Roland UK in addition to government policy. Conclusions are then drawn regarding the importance of both institutions developing appropriate structural capital and being aware of cultural differences that can potentially restrict academic/industrial partnerships. Although this pilot was focused specifically upon Roland UK, its wider implications, in terms of the demand for accredited
training for the music instrument retail industry, are considered.
Designing a degree programme “fit” for the sport industry
Authors: Griffiths Rob , Rainer Paul
Published: January 2011

The strategy for sport in Wales, Climbing Higher, establishes some very ambitious targets for raising the levels of sport and physical activity participation over the next 20 years. To support its strategy, the Welsh Assembly Government has promised an additional 12,000 jobs within the sport and recreation sector. Research conducted with employers highlights that many sports degree programmes are not “fit for purpose” and are not fully preparing graduates for work within the industry. This paper considers how the University of Glamorgan, in liaison with key industry partners, has designed a sports development degree “fit” for the industry and which meets the expectations of Climbing Higher. The success of the degree programme relies upon the formation of multi‐agency partnerships at a local and regional level. Experiential learning underpins the degree with students required to reflect upon the challenges that they face in getting participants more active; the community placements embedded within modules allow students to experience the complexities of working within the sports development sector. It is a unique and holistic approach, supported by key local and national partners and is fundamental in supporting the objectives set by the Welsh Assembly Government.
Predictors of attitudes to e‐learning of Australian health care students
Authors: Brown Ted , Williams Brett , Jaberzadeh Shapour , Roller Louis , Palermo Claire , McKenna Lisa , Wright Caroline , Baird Marilyn , Schneider‐Kolsky Michal , Hewitt Lesley , Holt Tangerine , Zoghi Maryam , Sim Jenny
Published: January 2011

Computers and computer‐assisted instruction are being used with increasing frequency in the area of health science student education, yet students’ attitudes towards the use of e‐learning technology and computer‐assisted instruction have received limited attention to date. The purpose of this study was to investigate the significant predictors of health science students’ attitudes towards e‐learning and computer‐assisted instruction. All students enrolled in health science programmes (n=2885) at a large multi‐campus Australian university in 2006‐2007, were asked to complete a questionnaire. This included the Online Learning Environment Survey (OLES), the Computer Attitude Survey (CAS), and the Attitude Toward Computer‐Assisted Instruction Semantic Differential Scale (ATCAISDS). A multiple linear regression analysis was used to determine the significant predictors of health science students’ attitudes to e‐learning. The Attitude Toward Computers in General (CASg) and the Attitude Toward Computers in Education (CASe) subscales from the CAS were the dependent (criterion) variables for the regression analysis. A total of 822 usable questionnaires were returned, accounting for a 29.5 per cent response rate. Three significant predictors of CASg and five significant predictors of CASe were found. Respondents’ age and OLES Equity were found to be predictors on both CAS scales. Health science educators need to take the age of students and the extent to which students perceive that they are treated equally by a teacher/tutor/instructor (equity) into consideration when looking at determinants of students’ attitudes towards e‐learning and technology.
Building a geo‐portal for enhancing collaborative socio‐economic research in Wales using open‐source technology
Authors: Berry Robert , Fry Richard , Higgs Gary , Orford Scott
Published: January 2011

The Wales Institute of Social and Economic Research, Data and Methods (WISERD) is a major new collaborative socio‐economic research programme involving five higher education institutions in Wales. This paper introduces the work of the WISERD data integration team and describes their plans for the development of an online geo‐portal. Their aim is to support WISERD researchers by providing a framework for integrating, managing and disseminating quantitative and qualitative socio‐economic data in Wales. This paper outlines the goals of this major project, discusses the concept of the WISERD geo‐portal and reports on initial investigations into geo‐portal development using free and open‐source (FOSS) software. The
paper concludes with a brief summary of the future work of the WISERD data integration team.
Globalisation of business education – a British course or a British educational experience? Comparisons from a UK university
Authors: Skinner Heather , Blackey Haydn
Published: January 2011

Globalisation of higher education (HE) is becoming increasingly significant with institutions in Europe, America and Australasia looking for new opportunities to engage with students from Asia and Africa, either by delivering in their own countries or by attracting them to study in the institution’s home country. Business and Management Studies are in increasing demand in emerging economies, and are often used as a higher education institution’s route into engagement in new markets. This paper uses case study methodology to provide four comparative cases; these show how one institution used technology enhanced learning to offer its business curriculum in a variety of contexts to different groups of students. The cases highlight two examples which use a technology enhanced approach, with faculty travelling to the student’s home institution to deliver in block‐mode supported with online material or with students travelling to the UK for weekend blocks, again supplemented online. The other two case study examples are primarily online. The cases indicate that a technology enhanced approach has been successful in terms of the students’ experiences of “British” education in a non‐traditional context. An “online only” approach has proved less successful in engaging students from different cultural backgrounds in a “British” educational experience.
Globalisation in construction management education
Authors: Wang George , Lu Huanqing , Ren Zhaomin
Published: January 2011

Current construction management programmes in higher education institutions provide students with sound technical and management knowledge. However, in the twenty‐first century, construction professionals need to be familiar with the cultural, environmental, and political factors that could affect international projects and know how to work effectively in the global arena. How to face the unique challenges due to rapidly increasing globalisation is the question that concerns construction educators around the world. However, current construction management curricula do not usually provide students with even basic training on international project management. To remedy this defect, globalisation components have been incorporated into construction management education at East Carolina University through lecture exchange, study abroad, student exchange, scholar exchange, and research exchange activities. This paper presents the international activities performed, the outcomes, and student growth in international construction management.
Towards a more inclusive higher education system in th e UK (1998/99 to 2007/08): students with and without disabilities
Authors: Pumfrey Peter D.
Published: January 2011

Based on data drawn from ten cohorts of students successfully completing a first degree, this paper examines Government higher education (HE) policy and changes in its effects in practice over a period of ten years until 2008. In 1998, Government policy on HE was set to make HE more inclusive of previously under‐represented groups. These groups included students from semi‐skilled or unskilled family backgrounds and from socially deprived localities. By the year 2010, a target was set to have 50 per cent of 18‐30 year‐old individuals experiencing HE. Educational standards were to be maintained. Another identified under‐represented group was students with disabilities. This paper addresses the relationship between HE policy and its effects in practice in relation to both groups. Changes in the numbers and the first degree results of cohorts of successful male and female students with and without disabilities were analysed annually between the years 1998/99 (Cohort 1) and 2007/8 (Cohort 10). The numbers and the first degree results of successful disabled (nine categories of disability) and non‐disabled male and female students were analysed. To date, results from an overall total of 2,588,792 successful students have been examined. A Government announcement in the autumn of 2009 limited access to first degree courses. Has a metaphorical “end of the line” towards greater inclusion in HE been reached?
Voluntary disclosure and risk in an emerging market
Authors: Hassan Omaima A.G. , Giorgioni Gianluigi , Romilly Peter , Power David M.
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This paper seeks to examine the association between corporate voluntary disclosure and systematic (market or beta) risk for a sample of Egyptian listed companies.

Design/methodology/approach

Using panel data analysis, beta is regressed on the level of voluntary disclosure and the following control variables: dividend payout, asset growth, gearing, firm size and book‐to‐market ratio.

Findings

The results generally show a negative relationship between voluntary disclosure level and beta, consistent with predictions of a differential information model and theories about the economic consequences of increased disclosure. The results are dependent on the specification of the model and the market index used to estimate beta, suggesting a need for further research on the link between risk and voluntary disclosure in the context of emerging markets.

Practical implications

The main implication of these results is that more voluntary information about listed companies seems preferable to less in order to reduce the perceived riskiness of a company. This should act as an incentive for listed companies to enhance public disclosure.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to explore the economic consequences of increased disclosure in an emerging capital market using panel data analysis. Another distinctive feature is that market betas are estimated using different measures to obtain greater confidence in the overall conclusions.
Privatisation and electricity sector reforms in Brazil: accounting perspective
Authors: de Araújo Wanderley Cláudio , Cullen John , Tsamenyi Mathew
Published: January 2011

Purpose

The paper seeks to examine the evolution of regulatory accounting within the context of the Brazilian electricity sector reforms. The paper traces the process of the reforms and the development of the regulatory accounting system.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on data collected from various documents including those published by the regulator (such as laws, resolutions and technical notes), as well as information from distribution companies and other government agencies.

Findings

It is found that regulatory accounting played different roles under the different electricity sector reforms implemented in Brazil. For example, regulatory accounting was minimally used during the first reform, and this brought a range of problems of implementation and consolidation of the electricity sector model. However, regulatory accounting played an essential role in the regulatory framework under the second reform, and this in part contributed to addressing some of the problems of the sector.

Originality/value

This is the first study that describes and explains the Brazilian electricity sector reforms by analysing the so‐called core issues in regulatory accounting and tariff review process. The paper contributes to the literature by providing a broader picture of the interconnection between regulatory accounting and the regulator's objectives.
A story about IAS/IFRS implementation in Romania
Authors: Albu Nadia , Nicolae Albu Cătălin , Bunea Ştefan , Artemisa Calu Daniela , Mădălina Girbina Maria
Published: January 2011

Purpose

This study aims to investigate in‐depth, and explain the issues related to, the implementation of IAS/IFRS in an emergent country that recently adhered to the European Union, i.e. Romania.

Design/methodology/approach

An institutional and structuration theory perspective is used to discuss two stages of IAS/IFRS implementation in Romania. Both primary (11 in‐depth semi‐structured interviews conducted with key actors involved in financial reporting) and secondary data (accounting regulations after the fall of communism, with respect to the implementation of IAS/IFRS) were collected for the purpose of the paper.

Findings

It was found that the two stages of IAS/IFRS implementation had different outcomes, with a more profound and qualitative impact of the second phase. The first step was a result of coercive external forces, that is, the influence of the World Bank. Given the lack of other factors to favor the change process, it is argued that the actual implementation of IAS in that period was very limited. Even though the second step meant a reduction in scope to only listed companies in consolidated accounts and financial institutions, it is argued that it was accompanied by a change process more significant than in the previous period.

Originality/value

The paper investigates the inter‐play between institutions, routines and politics in the Romanian context and highlights the complexity of accounting change in an emerging country.
Context, Diversity and Engagement: Early Intervention with Australian Aboriginal Families in Urban and Remote Contexts
Authors: Robinson Gary , Tyler William , Jones Yomei , Silburn Sven , Zubrick Stephen R.
Published: February 2011

This article describes challenges met implementing an early intervention programme for Aboriginal parents and their children in the NT (Northern Territory) of Australia in the context of efforts to remediate Aboriginal disadvantage. The intervention is an adaptation of an 8‐ to 10‐week, manualised parenting programme designed for four‐ to six‐year‐old children with behavioural difficulties. It was implemented for both Aboriginal and non‐Aboriginal children in urban Darwin and for Aboriginal children in three communities of the Tiwi Islands, near Darwin. Measured outcomes of the programme were positive overall with different outcomes by gender and Indigenous status. There were marked differences in retention of families from different socio‐cultural backgrounds in the programme, with a significant loss of participants from referral through commencement to six‐month follow‐up. This drop‐out was most marked for urban Aboriginal participants, despite highly flexible strategies of engagement and cultural adaptation of the approach pursued in each setting. The research provides lessons for the contextualisation of preventive interventions in diverse community settings and shows that systematic attention to cultural ‘fit’ of the intervention logic and cultural competence in engagement of disadvantaged families with multiple problems are fundamental to sustainability.
Efficacy of plasmapheresis for the treatment of severe toxic epidermal necrolysis: Is cytokine expression analysis useful in predicting its therapeutic efficacy?
Authors: NARITA Yoko M. , HIRAHARA Kazuhisa , MIZUKAWA Yoshiko , KANO Yoko , SHIOHARA Tetsuo
Published: February 2011

Toxic epidermal necrolysis (TEN) is a life‐threatening, drug‐induced disorder characterized by severe epidermal injury. Although there is no standard therapeutic intervention in TEN, plasmapheresis (PP) is being used increasingly to treat extremely ill TEN patients. In addition to conventional PP, double‐filtration PP (DFPP) has been recently used for severe and refractory TEN. In this review, we focus on the clinical usefulness of PP by both demonstrating three cases of TEN refractory to conventional therapies, who were successfully treated with conventional PP or DFPP, and evaluating its therapeutic efficiency. We also provide evidence to suggest the mechanisms of action of PP by investigating the correlation between disease intensity and serum cytokine levels before and after treatment with PP or DFPP in these patients with TEN. At present, PP is a much more effective option for treatment of severe and/or recalcitrant TEN than any other treatment, such as pulsed corticosteroids and i.v. immunoglobulin.
Caecal transcriptome analysis of colonized and non‐colonized chickens within two genetic lines that differ in caecal colonization by Campylobacter jejuni
Authors: Li X. Y. , Swaggerty C. L. , Kogut M. H. , Chiang H. I. , Wang Y. , Genovese K. J. , He H. , Pevzner I. Y. , Zhou H. J.
Published: February 2011

Campylobacter jejuni is one of the most common causes of human bacterial enteritis worldwide. The molecular mechanisms of the host responses of chickens to C. jejuni colonization are not well understood. We have previously found differences in C. jejuni colonization at 7‐days post‐inoculation (pi) between two genetic broiler lines. However, within each line, not all birds were colonized by C. jejuni (27.5% colonized in line A, and 70% in line B). Therefore, the objective of the present experiments was to further define the differences in host gene expression between colonized and non‐colonized chickens within each genetic line. RNA isolated from ceca of colonized and non‐colonized birds within each line was applied to a chicken 44K Agilent microarray for the pair comparison. There were differences in the mechanisms of host resistant to C. jejuni colonization between line A and line B. Ten times more differentially expressed genes were observed between colonized and non‐colonized chickens within line B than those within line A. Our study supports the fact that the MAPK pathway is important in host response to C. jejuni colonization in line B, but not in line A. The data indicate that inhibition of small GTPase‐mediated signal transduction could enhance the resistance of chickens to C. jejuni colonization and that the tumour necrosis factor receptor superfamily genes play important roles in determining C. jejuni non‐colonization in broilers.
Preventing the aortic complications of Marfan syndrome: a case‐example of translational genomic medicine
Authors: Li‐Wan‐Po Alain , Loeys Bart , Farndon Peter , Latham David , Bradley Caroline
Published: January 2011

The translational path from pharmacological insight to effective therapy can be a long one. We aim to describe the management of Marfan syndrome as a case‐example of how pharmacological and genomic insights can contribute to improved therapy. We undertook a literature search for studies of Marfan syndrome, to identify milestones in description, understanding and therapy of the syndrome. From the studies retrieved we then weaved an evidence‐based description of progress. Marfan syndrome shows considerable heterogeneity in clinical presentation. It relies on defined clinical criteria with confirmation based on FBN1 mutation testing. Surgical advances have prolonged life in Marfan syndrome. First‐line prophylaxis of complications with β‐adrenoceptor blockers became established on the basis that reduction of aortic pressure and heart rate would help. Over‐activity of proteinases, first suggested in 1980, has since been confirmed by evidence of over‐expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP), notably MMP‐2 and MMP‐9. The search for MMP inhibitors led to the evaluation of doxycycline, and both animal studies and small trials, provided early evidence that this widely used antimicrobial agent was useful. Identification of the importance of TGF‐β led to evaluation of angiotensin II type I receptor (AT1R) blockers with highly promising results. Combination prophylactic therapy would appear rational. Pharmacological and genomic research has provided good evidence that therapy with losartan and doxycycline would prevent the aortic complications of Marfan syndrome. If on‐going well designed trials confirm their efficacy, the outlook for Marfan syndrome patients would be improved considerably.
Shaping ability and cleaning effectiveness of Mtwo versus coated and uncoated EasyShape instruments in severely curved root canals of extracted teeth
Authors: Bürklein S. , Hiller C. , Huda M. , Schäfer E.
Published: January 2011

Bürklein S, Hiller C, Huda M, Schäfer E. Shaping ability and cleaning effectiveness of Mtwo versus coated and uncoated EasyShape instruments in severely curved root canals of extracted teeth. International Endodontic Journal, 44, 447–457, 2011.

Aim  To compare the cleaning effectiveness and shaping ability of Mtwo, PVD‐coated and uncoated EasyShape nickel–titanium rotary instruments during the preparation of curved root canals in extracted human teeth.

Methodology  A total of 60 root canals of mandibular and maxillary molars with curvatures ranging between 25° and 35° were divided into three groups of 20 canals. Based on radiographs taken prior to instrumentation with the initial instrument inserted into the canal, the groups were balanced with respect to the angle and the radius of canal curvature. Canals were prepared using a low‐torque control motor according the single‐length technique. Using pre‐ and post‐instrumentation radiographs, straightening of the canal curvatures was determined with a computer image analysis program. Preparation time, changes of working length and instrument failures were also recorded. These data were analysed statistically using ANOVA and Student–Newman–Keuls test. The amounts of debris and smear layer were quantified on the basis of a numerical evaluation scale. The data established for scoring the debris and the smear layer were recorded separately and analysed statistically using the Kruskal–Wallis test.

Results  During preparation, one coated and two uncoated EasyShape files fractured. Completely clean root canals were never observed. All instruments maintained the original canal curvature well with no significant differences between the different instruments (P > 0.05). Instrumentation with Mtwo files was significantly faster than with the two other instruments (P < 0.05). For debris removal Mtwo instruments achieved significantly better results (P < 0.001) than the two EasyShape instruments. The use of coated EasyShape files resulted in significantly less debris compared to instrumentation with uncoated EasyShape instruments (P < 0.05). The results for remaining smear layer were similar and not significantly different for the coronal, middle and apical third of the canals (P > 0.05) but in summary significantly less smear layer was observed following instrumentation with Mtwo (P < 0.01).

Conclusions  Under the conditions of this study, all instruments maintained the original canal curvature well. The use of Mtwo instruments resulted in good canal cleanliness. PVD‐coating of EasyShape instruments had no impact on their shaping ability but improved their cleaning effectiveness.
The effect of the elastic modulus of endodontic posts on static load failure
Authors: Stewardson D. A. , Shortall A. C. , Marquis P. M.
Published: January 2011

Stewardson DA, Shortall AC, Marquis PM. The effect of the elastic modulus of endodontic posts on static load failure. International Endodontic Journal, 44, 458–468, 2011.

Aim  To compare posts of different flexibility using static load testing. Hypotheses tested were (1) the flexural modulus of endodontic posts does not show a linear relationship with failure load and (2) the flexural modulus of endodontic posts does not show an association with failure mode.

Methodology  Thirty 2 mm diameter rods of a glass fibre material Aesthetiplus (A), a carbon fibre Composipost (C) and stainless steel (S) were cemented into 90 roots of extracted human teeth using resin cement. Composite resin cores were added and the roots embedded in self‐curing acrylic resin. Samples were loaded at 90° in a universal testing machine until failure. Failure loads and fracture levels were compared using one‐way anova and post‐hoc Scheffé tests. Proportions of different failure modes were compared with Chi square tests (α = 0.05).

Results  Mean failure loads – MPa (SD) were A – 278.69 (85.79), C – 258.86 (82.05), S – 347.37 (74.50). There was no significant difference in the mean failure load of roots containing the FRC posts (P = 0.639), but it was significantly greater for steel post samples (P < 0.01). The mean level of fracture among the groups was not significantly different (P = 0.879). No root fractures were ‘favourable’. Significantly more root fractures and fewer core fractures occurred for group A than for groups C or S (P < 0.01).

Conclusion  The elastic modulus of an endodontic post does not appear to be a principal factor influencing load at failure or mode of failure of post‐restored teeth.
Bacterial leakage in root canals filled with conventional and MTA‐based sealers
Authors: Oliveira A. C. M. , Tanomaru J. M. G. , Faria‐Junior N. , Tanomaru‐Filho M.
Published: January 2011

Oliveira ACM, Tanomaru JMG, Faria‐Junior N, Tanomaru‐Filho M. Bacterial leakage in root canals filled with conventional and MTA‐based sealers. International Endodontic Journal.

Aim  To evaluate bacterial leakage after filling root canals with several endodontic sealers, including MTA‐based materials.

Methodology  One hundred and thirty single‐rooted extracted human teeth were randomly divided into experimental groups (n = 15) and two control groups (n = 5). Six root canal sealers were namely: AH Plus (AHP), Sealer 26 (S26), Epiphany SE (ESE), Sealapex (SEL), Active GP (AGP), Endofill (EDF), and two MTA‐based sealers were namely: Endo CPM Sealer (CPM) and MTA‐based sealer (MTAS, MTA Sealer). Teeth in the control groups were either filled with no sealer or made completely impermeable. Root canals were prepared and filled with either gutta‐percha and one of the sealers or with Resilon and Epiphany SE. Teeth were sterilized by ethylene oxide prior to the bacterial leakage experiments using Enterococcus faecalis. Leakage was evaluated every 24 h for 16 weeks. Data were analysed by the Kaplan–Meier, Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn tests at 5% significance.

Results  Control groups had either immediate leakage or no leakage. During 120 days, significantly more leaking samples were detected for AGP, CPM and MTAS (P < 0.05). The best sealing ability was observed for AH Plus and Sealapex (P < 0.05).

Conclusions  All sealers evaluated allowed bacterial leakage. The MTA‐based sealers had the most leakage.
Integrative analysis of metabolite and transcript abundance during the short‐term response to saline and oxidative stress in the brown alga Ectocarpus siliculosus
Authors: DITTAMI SIMON M. , GRAVOT ANTOINE , RENAULT DAVID , GOULITQUER SOPHIE , EGGERT ANJA , BOUCHEREAU ALAIN , BOYEN CATHERINE , TONON THIERRY
Published: February 2011

The model brown alga Ectocarpus siliculosus undergoes extensive transcriptomic changes in response to abiotic stress, many of them related to primary metabolism and particularly to amino acid biosynthesis and degradation. In this study we seek to improve our knowledge of the mechanisms underlying the stress tolerance of this alga, in particular with regard to compatible osmolytes, by examining the effects of these changes on metabolite concentrations. We performed extensive metabolic profiling (urea, amino acids, sugars, polyols, organic acids, fatty acids) of Ectocarpus samples subjected to short‐term hyposaline, hypersaline and oxidative stress, and integrated the results with previously published transcriptomic data. The most pronounced changes in metabolite concentrations occurred under hypersaline stress: both mannitol and proline were accumulated, but their low final concentrations indicate that, in this stress condition, both compounds are not likely to significantly contribute to osmoregulation at the level of the entire cell. Urea and trehalose were not detected in any of our samples. We also observed a shift in fatty acid composition from n‐3 to n‐6 fatty acids under high salinities, and demonstrated the salt stress‐induced accumulation of small amounts of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA). GABA could be synthesized in E. siliculosus through a salt stress‐induced putrescine‐degradation pathway.
Auxin stimulates DWARF4 expression and brassinosteroid biosynthesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chung Yuhee , Maharjan Puna M. , Lee Oksun , Fujioka Shozo , Jang Suyoun , Kim Bokyung , Takatsuto Suguru , Tsujimoto Masafumi , Kim Hobang , Cho Seoae , Park Taesung , Cho Hyunwoo , Hwang Ildoo , Choe Sunghwa
Published: February 2011

Brassinosteroids (BRs) are growth‐promoting steroidal hormones. Despite the importance of BRs in plant biology, the signal that initiates BR biosynthesis remains unknown. Among the enzymes involved in BR biosynthesis in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana), DWARF4 catalyzes the rate‐determining step. Through both the histochemical analysis of DWF4pro:GUS plants and the direct measurement of endogenous BR content, we discovered that BR biosynthesis is stimulated by auxin. When DWF4pro:GUS was subjected to auxin dose–response tests and a time‐course analysis, GUS activity started to increase at an auxin concentration of 10 nm, rising noticeably after 1 h of auxin treatment. In addition, the analysis of the DWF4pro:GUS line in BR‐ and auxin‐mutant backgrounds revealed that the induction by auxin requires auxin‐signaling pathways but not BRs, which implies that auxin signaling directly controls BR biosynthesis. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays confirmed that auxin inhibits the binding of the transcriptional repressor, BZR1, to the DWF4 promoter. A microarray analysis that was designed to examine the transcriptomes after treatment with auxin alone or auxin plus brassinazole (a BR biosynthetic inhibitor) revealed that genes previously characterized as being auxin responsive are not properly regulated when BR biosynthesis is disrupted by brassinazole. Therefore, our results support the idea that auxin regulates BR biosynthesis, and that auxin thus relies on synthesized BRs for some of its growth‐promoting effects in Arabidopsis.
Chronic kidney disease growth factors in renal fibrosis
Authors: Boor Peter , Floege Jürgen
Published: January 2011

1. The common pathological alteration in virtually every progressive chronic kidney disease (CKD) is renal fibrosis.

2. This review focuses on some growth factors, which are particularly well‐established in contributing to fibrosis, such as the profibrotic, transforming growth factor‐β, and connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), as well as the antifibrotic, bone morphogenic protein 7. The role of other growth factors is only starting to emerge (e.g. platelet‐derived growth factor), and the role of yet others remains unclear (e.g. vascular endothelial growth factor).

3. Whether circulating or excreted, growth factors might serve as biomarkers of renal fibrosis and CKD remains largely unanswered.

4. Animal studies suggest that manipulation of growth factors might be an effective treatment option for patients with renal fibrosis and CKD. So far, only inhibition of CTGF is being tested in patients with diabetic nephropathy.
Bibliometrics as politics: the case of emerging disciplines
Authors: Traynor Michael
Published: February 2011

TRAYNOR M. (2011) Bibliometrics as politics: the case of emerging disciplines. International Nursing Review58, 26–27

Academic nurses are increasingly turning to bibliometrics to assess the state and status of research publication in nursing in countries around the world. Early bibliometric studies were carried out by Cattell as part of a project to advance research in psychology in the early decades of the 20th century. There are some echoes in nursing's moves to increase its standing over the last 40 years. The interpretation of bibliometric studies can reveal embedded values about academic disciplinary activity and normative views of scientific work. Patterns of publishing by nurse academics appear increasingly to resemble those in biomedicine as a whole.
‘I'm not a computer person’: Negotiating participation in academic Discourses
Authors: Lohnes Watulak Sarah
Published: February 2011

While there is little doubt that technology is, in many ways, central to the college student experience today, the expectations of students and colleges vis‐à‐vis technology may not always be the same. This research explores the role of technology in the lives of today's college students, particularly within the institutional context of the university, and asks the question: What role does technology play in a freshman college student's participation in the academic Discourse of her institution? This paper focuses on the Discourse analysis of one student, Nichole, a focal participant in a semester‐long, qualitative study of 34 undergraduate students at a university in the northeastern United States. Nichole's general dislike of technology places her in opposition to assumptions about the ‘typical’ Net Gen student; results indicated that the ways in which Nichole used technology in her personal life conflicted with her participation in the pro‐technology academic Discourse of her institution. For Nichole, the disconnect between the institutional expectations for technology use and her personal technology practices resulted in the need to negotiate another layer of complexity on the path to academic success.
THE DYNAMIC RELATION BETWEEN RETURNS, TRADING VOLUME, AND VOLATILITY: LESSONS FROM SPILLOVERS BETWEEN ASIA AND THE UNITED STATES
Authors: Gębka Bartosz
Published: January 2011

This paper investigates the dynamic relationship between index returns, return volatility, and trading volume for eight Asian markets and the US. We find cross‐border spillovers in returns to be non‐existent, spillovers in absolute returns between Asia and the US to be strong in both directions, and spillovers in volatility to run from Asia to the US. Trading volume, especially on the Asian markets, depends on shocks in domestic and foreign returns as well as on volatility, especially those shocks originating in the US. However, only weak evidence is found for trading volume influencing other variables. In the light of the theoretical models, these results suggest sequential information arrivals, with investors being overconfident and applying positive feedback strategy. Furthermore, new information causes price volatility to rise due to differences in its interpretation among traders, but the subsequent market reaction takes the form of adjustment in price level, not volatility. Lastly, the intensity of cross‐border spillovers seems to have increased following the 1997 crisis, which we interpret as evidence of increased noisiness in prices and diversity in opinions about news originating abroad. Our findings might also help to understand the nature of financial crises, to predict their further developments and consequences.
Effect of Myoglobin from Eastern Little Tuna Muscle on Lipid Oxidation of Washed Asian Seabass Mince at Different pH Conditions
Authors: Thiansilakul Yaowapa , Benjakul Soottawat , Richards Mark P.
Published: February 2011

Abstract:  The effect of pH (6.0, 6.5, and 7.0) on lipid oxidation in washed Asian seabass (Lates calcarifer) mince mediated by oxymyoglobin from the dark muscle of little Eastern tuna (Euthynnus affinis) during 8 d of refrigerated storage was studied. Metmyoglobin formation and discoloration increased with increasing storage time and the changes were more pronounced at lower pH. The highest lipid oxidation and off‐odor development were observed when myoglobin was incorporated in washed mince at pH 6.0. At low pH, oxidation of myoglobin took place and lipid oxidation in washed mince was enhanced. This was concomitant with the increased fishy and rancid off odor in the sample containing myoglobin, especially at pH 6.0. Washed mince containing myoglobin at pH 6.0 had 1‐octen‐3‐ol and hexanal as the major volatile compounds. Thus, postmortem pH and myoglobin played an essential role in lipid oxidation and off odor in fish muscle during the extended storage.

Practical Application:  Myoglobin plays a role in the color of fish muscle. The change of myoglobin affects not only consumer acceptability, but also lipid oxidation as well as odor. The control of pH of muscle could be a potential means to lower the lipid oxidation mediated by myoglobin. As a consequence, the prime quality of fish with a negligible fishy odor could be maintained during postharvest handling or storage.
Effects of Supplemental UV‐A on the Development, Anatomy and Metabolite Production of Phyllanthus tenellus Cultured In Vitro
Authors: Victório Cristiane Pimentel , Leal‐Costa Marcos Vinicius , Schwartz Tavares Eliana , Machado Kuster Ricardo , Salgueiro Lage Celso Luiz
Published: January 2011

Phyllanthus tenellus is widely used for its antiviral, analgesic and hepatoprotective properties. Although the production of several chemical classes of secondary metabolites is influenced by UV radiation, particularly phenolic compounds, we also know that UV radiation can result in anatomical and developmental damage. However, the morphological, anatomical and phytochemical changes in response to UV‐A exposure are generally understudied in the Phyllanthaceae. Therefore, we evaluated the effects of UV‐A radiation on plant development and leaf anatomy, as well as the production of secondary metabolites and the contents of carotenoids and chlorophylls a and b, in P. tenellus. To accomplish this, in vitro cultures of P. tenellus were maintained for 60 days under white light (WL) and WL plus UV‐A radiation. Results showed different phenotypic responses under additional UV‐A, such as high phenolic metabolite production, increasing dimensions of abaxial epidermis and thickness of palisade parenchyma. Compared to plants cultured under WL, UV‐A radiation caused damage to plant morphogenesis, including a reduced number of branches and shoots, consequently reducing the rate of proliferation. On the other hand, geraniin, ellagic acid and carotenoid contents increased after UV‐A exposure, indicating that this light source is an important resource for inducing phenolic compounds.
Acid pump antagonist‐provoked HSP27 dephosphorylation and accentuation rescues stomach from indomethacin‐induced damages
Authors: OCK Chan Young , LIM Yun Jeong , KIM Yoon Jae , CHUNG Jun Won , KWON Kwang An , KIM Ju Hyun , HAHM Ki Baik
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE:  Heat shock proteins (HSPs) are crucial for the maintenance of cellular integrity during normal cell growth as well as pathophysiological conditions. While acting as molecular chaperones with their folding activities, HSPs play a cytoprotective role to rescue epithelial cells from several gastric damages including non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori. Since the exact relationship between HSP27 phosphorylation and biological function remains unknown in NSAID‐induced gastropathy, we hypothesized that revaprazan, a novel acid pump antagonist, can secure significant cytoprotection from NSAID damages through HSP27 accentuation.

METHODS:  We evaluated protective actions of revaprazan against either in vivo animal model of indomethacin induced gastropathy or in vitro cell model focused on HSP27 expression and activation.

RESULTS:  Indomethacin induced significant cytotoxicities accompanied with phosphorylated HSP27 and attenuated levels of HSP27 in the in vitro cell experiment and revaprazan administration protected stomach from indomethacin‐induced gastric damages in accordance with HSP27 dephosphorylation in the in vivo animal experiment. HSP27 siRNA abolished these cytoprotective privileges of revaprazan. Indomethacin, 40 mg/kg, po, administration provoked significant levels of gastric damages accompanied with decrement in HSP27, while rats administrated with revaprazan prior to indomethacin imposed the accentuation of HSP27, of which levels were significantly correlated with the prevention of the indomethacin‐induced gastric damages.

CONCLUSION:  HSP27 phosphorylation with resultant decrease in HSP27 level was one of the mechanisms of indomethacin‐induced cytotoxicity, of which post‐translational modifications were prevented with revaprazan administration in the presence of indomethacin. Therefore, acid pump antagonist could be a choice for the prevention of NSAID‐induced gastropathy backed up with distinctive cytoprotective action beyond acid suppressor.
Vitamin D receptor gene polymorphism and ulcerative colitis susceptibility in Han Chinese
Authors: PEI Feng Hua , WANG Yan Jun , GAO Shan Ling , LIU Bing Rong , DU Ya Ju , LIU Wei , YU Hong Ying , ZHAO Li Xia , CHI Bao Rong
Published: January 2011

OBJECTIVE:  Specific polymorphisms in the vitamin D receptor (VDR) gene have been associated with genetic susceptibility to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) in different ethnic populations.

METHODS:  A total of 218 ulcerative colitis (UC) patients and 251 healthy controls were genotyped for VDR gene polymorphisms using PCR‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) assay. VDR gene polymorphisms (Apa I, Taq I, Bsm I and Fok I) were analyzed for both genotypic and phenotypic susceptibilities.

RESULTS:  Among the four examined VDR gene polymorphisms, the Bsm I polymorphism showed a slightly higher distribution in our study population than that in the previous studies. We also found that the increased frequency of the Bb genotype of the Bsm I VDR gene polymorphism was associated with UC in Han Chinese, as compared with healthy controls (28.4% vs. 18.7%, χ2 = 6.044, P = 0.014, OR = 1.739, 95% CI = 1.122–2.697). Moreover, Bsm I polymorphic allele (B) frequency was significantly increased in the UC cases, as compared to the healthy controls (14.7% vs. 7.8% χ2 = 6.222, P = 0.013; OR = 1.670, 95% CI = 1.113–2.506). In contrast, the other three VDR gene polymorphisms (Apa I, Taq I and Fok I) were not associated with UC susceptibility in the Han Chinese cohort. In addition, none of these four VDR polymorphisms had statistical association with clinicopathological parameters of these UC patients.

CONCLUSION:  This study demonstrated a probable association of the Bsm I polymorphism of the VDR gene with ulcerative colitis susceptibility in Han Chinese.