bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The accounting academic
Authors: Samkin Grant , Schneider Annika
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– This paper aims to consider the accounting academic, the environment in which the academic operates and the challenges they face.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper explores a number of issues relating to the accounting academic. The five papers that make up the special issue are located within a framework which is used to illustrate how each one contributes to the field. This paper is primarily discursive in nature.

Findings

– The theoretical, methodological and empirical approaches used in the papers that make up this special issue are described. In addition, the paper suggests that the accounting academic will remain a fertile area for future research.

Practical implications

– This portrayal of accounting academics is of interest to accounting researchers, accounting historians, university managers and individual academics.

Originality/value

– This special issue provides a range of examples of research relevant to the accounting academic and sets an agenda for future research.
SUPER-VISION? Personal experiences of an accounting academic
Authors: Lawrence Stewart
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The aim of this paper is to illustrate the social aspects of supervising students’ research of accounting practice. It attempts to demonstrate that accounting practice and accounting research share a common characteristic – they are both forms of social practice.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper is written as a personal reflection and confession. It follows a tradition in the social science literature of academics engaging in auto-ethnographic self-reflection. It is presented as a series of dialogues between the academic and the students.

Findings

– The tensions between the experienced teacher and the students raise questions about the extent of involvement of the academic in the students’ work. Each project involves social interactions which affect the nature of the supervision required and provided. Positivistic approaches may give strict guidance in the form of accepted rules and conventions, but for social scientists who recognise that research, like practice, is socially constructed, outcomes are often uncertain.

Research limitations/implications

– It is a personal reflection on specific research projects, and so there are no conclusions about supervision in general.

Practical implications

– The intent is to capture the uncertain development and outcome of research projects. The uncertainty may be typical of supervisor/student experiences.

Originality/value

– Though examples of auto-ethnographic self-reflection may be found in the social science literature, there are few, if any, in the accounting literature.
The police service quality in rural Taiwan
Authors: Min Chen Chien , Tau Lee Hong , Hua Chen Sheu , Hsien Tsai Tsung
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to investigate the perceptions and satisfaction between police officers and citizens on Kinmen Island (of Taiwan), using an analytical framework that combines five primary dimensions and 25 corresponding determinants.

Design/methodology/approach

– It considers recent developments in the application of performance measures and management to public and, particularly, police services. It goes on to assess comparative rural police performance which suggests that the application of targets could ultimately serve to provide the overall satisfaction with police services.

Findings

– The findings of the study suggest that perceptions and satisfaction of both citizens and police staff may result in the success of the policing management, and that police managers have to satisfy their citizens with a high level of service quality based on different localities.

Practical implications

– From managerial perspectives, police managers should consider both the service quality and customer satisfaction constructs as determinants of behavioural intentions, based on the fact that satisfaction can be a strategic key to maintain long term relationship with citizens as it is found of significant impact on the intentional behaviour.

Originality/value

– This research adds empirical support to this vein of literature and has identified the five main dimensions and the 25 sub-dimensions as important constructs for police service quality.
Applying the KANO model to analyse the value of green FM
Authors: Määttänen Eeva , Jylhä Tuuli , Junnila Seppo
Published: July 2014

Purpose

– This research project studies office tenants’ perceived value of green service attributes, with the focus being on facility services and management. The purpose of this paper is to gain an understanding of what kind of green attributes tenants value in their office buildings.

Design/methodology/approach

– The research project was conducted using a single case study methodology. A green facilities management concept was tested in a pilot building. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire based on the Kano model of attractive quality. In addition, open-ended questions were asked to further understand the tenants’ views on the matter.

Findings

– The findings of the research project indicate that tenants have begun to value green attributes in their office buildings. While environmental efficiency is not yet a strategic guideline for small tenants, it would increase their satisfaction with facility management and services.

Practical implications

– Facility management and service organisations can utilise the results of this study in their own service scopes and process development.

Originality/value

– This study provides insight into the value of green facilities and user services for small office tenants.
Detection sensitivity of influenza rapid diagnostic tests
Authors: Sakai‐Tagawa Yuko , Ozawa Makoto , Yamada Shinya , Uchida Yuko , Saito Takehiko , Takahashi Kazuo , Sugaya Norio , Tashiro Masato , Kawaoka Yoshihiro
Published: July 2014

The sensitivity of influenza rapid diagnostic tests (IRDTs) currently available in Japan for various influenza virus strains, including human H7N9 and H5N1 isolates, were compared and it was found that all of the IRDTs examined detected these viruses; however, their detection sensitivities differed.
Cheese whey fermented with kefir micro‐organisms: Antagonism against Salmonella and immunomodulatory capacity
Authors: Londero Alejandra , Iraporda Carolina , Garrote Graciela L , Abraham Analía G
Published: July 2014

The antagonistic effect against Salmonella spp. and the immunomodulatory capacity of whey fermented with kefir grains and with three strains isolated from them – Lactobacillus plantarum CIDCA 8327, Lactobacillus kefiri CIDCA 8348 and Kluyveromyces marxianus var. marxianus CIDCA 8154 – were evaluated. Both fermented products interfered with the capacity of Salmonella spp. to associate and invade Caco‐2/TC7 cells and reduced up to the basal level the expression of the CCL20 in response to a pro‐inflammatory stimulus on Caco‐2 CCL20:luc cells. The products with potential application as probiotics obtained by fermentation of whey with kefir micro‐organisms represent an alternative to increase whey economic value.
New insight in the epidemiology of avian botulism outbreaks: necrophagous flies as vectors of Clostridium botulinum type C/D
Authors: Anza Ibone , Vidal Dolors , Mateo Rafael
Published: July 2014

Avian botulism outbreaks spread through the bird carcass–maggot cycle, in which Clostridium botulinum and blowflies interact to ensure their reproduction in a mutualistic relationship where neurotoxin/spore‐bearing maggot is one of the keystones. Here we investigated the hypothesis that adult blowflies may also play a significant role in botulism outbreaks by carrying C. botulinum cells between carcasses. We carried out a field experiment placing bird carcasses free of C. botulinum type C/D in containers only accessible to necrophagous flying insects in wetlands where avian botulism outbreaks were occurring and in control sites. Additionally, we performed laboratory trials to evaluate if blowflies may carry C. botulinum type C/D and for how long. Maggots bearing C. botulinum type C/D developed in 27.5% of carcasses placed in wetlands during botulism outbreaks. Calliphoridae flies in laboratory trials were able to transfer C. botulinum between two points and excreted it in their spots for up to 24 h after an infective feeding. Our results confirm that adult necrophagous flies play a role in the spreading of botulism outbreaks, which have implications in the epidemiology of this disease.
Single‐cell genomics reveals potential for magnetite and greigite biomineralization in an uncultivated multicellular magnetotactic prokaryote
Authors: Kolinko Sebastian , Richter Michael , Glöckner Frank‐Oliver , Brachmann Andreas , Schüler Dirk
Published: July 2014

For magnetic orientation, magnetotactic bacteria biosynthesize magnetosomes, which consist of membrane‐enveloped magnetic nanocrystals of either magnetite (Fe3O4) or greigite (Fe3S4). While magnetite formation is increasingly well understood, much less is known about the genetic control of greigite biomineralization. Recently, two related yet distinct sets of magnetosome genes were discovered in a cultivated magnetotactic deltaproteobacterium capable of synthesizing either magnetite or greigite, or both minerals. This led to the conclusion that greigite and magnetite magnetosomes are synthesized by separate biomineralization pathways. Although magnetosomes of both mineral types co‐occurred in uncultured multicellular magnetotactic prokaryotes (MMPs), so far only one type of magnetosome genes could be identified in the available genome data. TheMMPCandidatus Magnetomorum strainHK‐1 from coastal tidal sand flats of theNorthSea (Germany) was analysed by a targeted single‐cell approach. The draft genome assembly resulted in a size of 14.3Mb and an estimated completeness of 95%. In addition to genomic features consistent with a sulfate‐reducing lifestyle, we identified numerous genes putatively involved in magnetosome biosynthesis. Remarkably, mostmamorthologues were present in two paralogous copies with highest similarity to either magnetite or greigite type magnetosome genes, supporting the ability to synthesize magnetite and greigite magnetosomes.
Effect of intravenous lignocaine on perioperative stress response and post‐surgical ileus in elective open abdominal surgeries: a double‐blind randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sridhar Parnandi , Sistla Sarath Chandra , Ali Sheik Manwar , Karthikeyan Vilvapathy Senguttuvan , Badhe Ashok Shankar , Ananthanarayanan Palghat Hariharan
Published: July 2014

Background

Perioperative stress response can be detrimental if excessive and prolonged. Intravenous (i.v.) lignocaine, while being an effective analgesic, has the added benefit of anti‐inflammatory activity. This study was done to assess the effect of i.v. lignocaine on operative stress response and post‐surgical ileus after elective open abdominal surgeries.

Methods

Patients (n = 134) were randomized into two groups (n = 67 each) to receive an i.v. infusion of lignocaine (group L) or saline (group S) as a bolus of 1.5 mg/kg at intubation followed by an infusion of 1.5 mg/kg/h throughout the surgery until 1 h post‐surgery. Total leukocyte count (TLC), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels immediately and 24 h after surgery were compared with preoperative levels. Time to first passage of flatus and stools post‐operatively was noted. Post‐operative pain scores, analgesic requirements, and incidence of post‐operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) were assessed in the two groups.

Results

Post‐operative surge in TLC, CRP and IL‐6 was attenuated in group L as compared to group S (P < 0.001, 0.018, <0.001). Time to passage of flatus and stools was earlier in group L (P = 0.04, 0.02). PONV was lesser in group L at 6 and 18 h post‐surgery (<0.001, 0.28). Post‐operative pain scores and post‐operative morphine requirement were significantly less in group L at each point of time post‐operatively (P < 0.001, <0.001).

Conclusion

Perioperative i.v. lignocaine infusion attenuates the operative stress response, provides effective analgesia and reduces the need for opioids post‐operatively. Through these effects, it reduces post‐operative ileus and the incidence of PONV.
Proton pump inhibitor use significantly increases the risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in 1965 patients with cirrhosis and ascites: a propensity score matched cohort study
Authors: Min Y. W. , Lim K. S. , Min B.‐H. , Gwak G.‐Y. , Paik Y. H. , Choi M. S. , Lee J. H. , Kim J. J. , Koh K. C. , Paik S. W. , Yoo B. C. , Rhee P.‐L.
Published: July 2014

Background

The risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) associated with proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use has been raised in cirrhotic patients with ascites. However, this is based on case–control studies, often with a small series.

Aim

To determine whether PPI use increases the risk of SBP using a large cohort.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included 1965 cirrhotic patients with ascites diagnosed between January 2005 and December 2009. The SBP incidence rate was compared between the PPI and non‐PPI groups before and after propensity score matching to reduce the effect of selection bias and potential confounders. Multivariate analysis was conducted to confirm the association of PPI use with SBP.

Results

After excluding 411 patients, 1554 were analysed. Among them, 512 patients (32.9%) were included in the PPI group. The annual SBP incidence rate was higher in the PPI group than in the non‐PPI group (10.6% and 5.8%, P = 0.002) before matching. Indications for PPI use and dose of PPI were similar between patients with and without SBP. In the propensity score matched cohort (402 pairs), the SBP incidence rate was also higher in the PPI group than in the non‐PPI group (10.8% vs. 6.0%, P = 0.038). Multivariate analysis revealed that PPI use (Hazard ratio 1.396; 95% confidence interval, 1.057–1.843; P = 0.019) was the independent risk factor for SBP.

Conclusions

Proton pump inhibitor use significantly increases the risk of spontaneous bacterial peritonitis in cirrhotic patients with ascites. Proton pump inhibitor use should be undertaken with greater caution and appropriately in patients with cirrhosis.
Apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain modulates second mitochondrial‐derived activator of caspases mimetic‐induced cell death through BIRC2/MAP3K14 signalling in acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Mak Po Y. , Mak Duncan H. , Ruvolo Vivian , Jacamo Rodrigo , Kornblau Steven M. , Kantarjian Hagop , Andreeff Michael , Carter Bing Z.
Published: July 2014

Overexpression of the apoptosis repressor with caspase recruitment domain (ARC, also termed NOL3) protein predicts adverse outcome in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and confers drug resistance to AML cells. The second mitochondrial‐derived activator of caspases (SMAC, also termed DIABLO) mimetic, birinapant, promotes extrinsic apoptosis in AML cells. SMAC mimetics induce cleavage of cellular inhibitor of apoptosis (cIAP) proteins, leading to stabilization of the nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB)‐inducing kinase (MAP3K14, also termed NIK) and activation of non‐canonical NF‐κB signalling. To enhance the therapeutic potential of SMAC mimetics in AML, we investigated the regulation and role of ARC in birinapant‐induced apoptosis. We showed that birinapant increases ARC in AML and bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stromal cells (MSCs). Downregulation of MAP3K14 by siRNA decreased ARC levels and suppressed birinapant‐induced ARC increase. Reverse‐phase protein array analysis of 511 samples from newly diagnosed AML patients showed that BIRC2 (also termed cIAP1) and ARC were inversely correlated. Knockdown of ARC sensitized, while overexpression attenuated, birinapant‐induced apoptosis. Furthermore, ARC knockdown in MSCs sensitized co‐cultured AML cells to birinapant‐induced apoptosis. Our data demonstrate that ARC is regulated via BIRC2/MAP3K14 signalling and its overexpression in AML or MSCs can function as a resistant factor to birinapant‐induced leukaemia cell death, suggesting that strategies to inhibit ARC will improve the therapeutic potential of SMAC mimetics.
The health perspectives of Australian adolescents from same‐sex parent families: a mixed methods study
Authors: Crouch S. R. , Waters E. , McNair R. , Power J.
Published: July 2014

Background

Research involving adolescents from same‐sex parent families provides an important contribution to the evidence base on their health, well‐being and the impact of stigma. To date reports on the perspectives of adolescents with same‐sex attracted parents have been limited. This study aimed to describe the multidimensional experiences of physical, mental and social well‐being of adolescents living in this context.

Methods

A mixed methods study of adolescents with same‐sex attracted parents comprising of an adolescent‐report survey of 10‐ to 17‐year‐olds and family interviews with adolescents and their parents. Data were collected in 2012 and 2013 as part of the Australian Study of Child Health in Same‐Sex Families.

Results

The findings from qualitative interviews with seven adolescents and responses to an open‐ended survey question (n = 16) suggest four themes: perceptions of normality, positive concepts of health, spheres of life (including family, friends and community) and avoiding negativity. The quantitative sample of adolescents with same‐sex attracted parents (n = 35) reported higher scores than population normative data on the dimensions general health and family activities within the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) as well as higher on the peer problems scale on the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Perceived stigma correlates with lower health and well‐being overall.

Conclusions

Positive health outcomes are informed by the ways adolescents conceptualize health and how they construct their spheres of life. Peer relationships, and community perspectives of same‐sex families, inform perceived stigma and its correlation with poorer health and well‐being. Although adolescents see their families as essentially normal they are negatively affected by external societal stigma.
Reduced beta‐cell reserve and pancreatic volume in survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia treated with bone marrow transplantation and total body irradiation
Authors: Wei Christina , Thyagiarajan Manigandan , Hunt Linda , Cox Rachel , Bradley Karin , Elson Ruth , Hamilton‐Shield Julian , Stevens Michael , Crowne Elizabeth
Published: July 2014

Background

Impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and diabetes mellitus (DM) occur more frequently after bone marrow transplantation and total body irradiation (BMT/TBI), but the mechanism is unclear. This study investigates insulin sensitivity, β‐cell reserve and pancreatic volume in adult survivors of childhood acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL).

Method

Survivors (aged 16–26 years) of ALL treated with BMT/TBI (10–14·4 Gy) Group 1 (n = 20, 10 m) were compared with a chemotherapy‐only Group 2 (n = 28, 11 m). Participants underwent assessments of insulin sensitivity by whole body composite‐insulin‐sensitivity‐index (ISIcomp) from oral glucose tolerance tests (OGTTs); first (AIRarg, AIRg, AUCin10) and second (AUC in second phase) phase insulin responses from arginine‐intravenous glucose tolerance tests; and pancreatic volume by abdominal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data were analysed by odds ratio, Chi‐square or Fisher's exact tests, Student's t‐tests, analysis of covariance (ancova) and Pearson's or partial correlations (5% significance).

Results

Abnormal OGTTs were documented in Group 1 (DM = 2, IGT = 7). Insulin secretion adjusted for insulin sensitivity was lower in Group 1 than Group 2 as a whole [LogAIRarg (P = 0·008), logAIRg (P = 0·013) and logAUCin10 (P = 0·014)] and after exclusion of those with abnormal glucose tolerance [logAIRarg (P = 0·011), logAIRg (P = 0·007) and logAUCin10 (P = 0·006)]. Group 1 had lower pancreatic volume than Group 2 [52·0 (14·2) vs 72·8 (23·5), P = 0·001] cm3, and results were consistent after adjustment for size by body surface area (P = 0·019). Pancreatic volume correlated with logAIRarg adjusted log ISIcomp (partial correlation = 0·34, P = 0·025).

Conclusions

Adult survivors of childhood BMT/TBI for ALL demonstrated reduced β‐cell reserve and smaller pancreatic volume, both likely additional aetiological factors, with reduced insulin sensitivity, in their increased risk of diabetes.
Expression of pro‐apoptotic Bax and anti‐apoptotic Bcl‐2 proteins in human retinoblastoma
Authors: Singh Lata , Pushker Neelam , Saini Neeru , Sen Seema , Sharma Anjana , Bakhshi Sameer , Chawla Bhavna , Kashyap Seema
Published: July 2014

Background

Regulation of apoptosis is a complex process that involves a number of genes, including Bcl‐2, Bcl‐x, Bax and other Bcl‐2 family members. The aim of the present study is to assess the expression of Bcl‐ 2 and Bax in retinoblastoma, and correlate them with clinical and histopathological parameters.

Methods

The expression of Bcl‐2 and Bax proteins were examined using immunohistochemistry, Western blotting and reverse transcriptase‐polymerase chain reaction in a series of 60 prospective cases of primary retinoblastoma tissues.

Results

Immunohistochemistry showed expression of Bcl‐2 in 40/60 (66.6%), whereas Bax expression was found only in 18/60 (30%) cases, and these correlated with mRNA expression. The Western blotting results also correlated well with the immunohistochemical expression of Bcl‐2 (25 kDa) and Bax (21 kDa) proteins. Bcl‐2 was expressed in 96% (24/25) of invasive tumours and in 45.7% (16/35) of non‐invasive tumours. Expression of Bcl‐2 significantly correlated with tumour invasiveness (P = 0.0274) and poor differentiation (P = 0.0163), whereas loss of Bax correlated with massive choroidal invasion and Pathological Tumor‐Node‐Metastasis (pTNM) (P = 0.0341). However, no correlation was found between Bax and Bcl‐2 expression.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that these apoptotic regulatory proteins may serve as poor prognostic markers and can be used as a therapeutic target for the treatment of invasive retinoblastoma. Further functional studies are required to explore the role of Bax and Bcl‐2 in retinoblastoma.
Ophthalmological consequences of cyanotic congenital heart disease: vascular parameters and nerve fibre layer
Authors: Cordina Rachael , Leaney John , Golzan Mojtaba , Grieve Stuart , Celermajer David S , Graham Stuart L
Published: July 2014

Background

This study investigated the long‐term ophthalmological consequences of cyanotic congenital heart disease (CHD).

Design

Cross‐sectional study, tertiary referral setting.

Participants

Thirteen adults with cyanotic CHD (40 ± 4 years). Age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls underwent aspects of the protocol.

Methods

Cyanosed subjects had a full ophthalmic examination, visual fields, scanning laser ophthalmoscopy and optical coherence tomography to assess retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL), retinal photography and cerebral magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Main Outcome Measures

RNFL thickness and quantitative analysis of retinal vessels with fractal dimension, branching and central retinal arterial equivalent (CRAE) and central retinal venous equivalent (CRVE).

Results

No abnormalities of anatomy, motility, intraocular pressure or anterior segments were detected apart from one subject who had bilateral cataracts. Corrected visual acuity was normal in all but one cyanosed subject. Clinical examination revealed dilated retinal vasculature in 12/13 cyanosed subjects and increased tortuosity in 8/13. In the setting of cyanosis, skeletonized retinal arterial and venous beds had higher fractal dimension and increased branching (P ≤ 0.01, n = 11 for all); retinal vessels were dilated (CRAE: 227 vs. 183, n = 11, P < 0.0001; CRVE: 254 vs. 221, n = 11, P = 0.01). Visual fields showed scotomas in two subjects associated with RNFL thinning. No disc oedema was detected. 6/13 subjects’ RNFL thickness fell below the normal 95% confidence interval in at least one sector without explanatory cerebral pathology (P < 0.0001, n = 13). Mean RNFL thickness correlated with MRI cerebral white matter volume (R = 0.67, P = 0.035).

Conclusions

Cyanosed subjects had vessel dilatation, increased branching and tortuosity. RNFL and visual field thresholds were reduced suggesting impaired neuro‐ophthalmological functioning.
An Indecent Proposal: The Dual Functions of Indirect Speech
Authors: Chakroff Aleksandr , Thomas Kyle A. , Haque Omar S. , Young Liane
Published: July 2014

People often use indirect speech, for example, when trying to bribe a police officer by asking whether there might be “a way to take care of things without all the paperwork.” Recent game theoretic accounts suggest that a speaker uses indirect speech to reduce public accountability for socially risky behaviors. The present studies examine a secondary function of indirect speech use: increasing the perceived moral permissibility of an action. Participants report that indirect speech is associated with reduced accountability for unethical behavior, as well as increased moral permissibility and increased likelihood of unethical behavior. Importantly, moral permissibility was a stronger mediator of the effect of indirect speech on likelihood of action, for judgments of one's own versus others' unethical action. In sum, the motorist who bribes the police officer with winks and nudges may not only avoid public punishment but also maintain the sense that his actions are morally permissible.
Emigration in emperor penguins: implications for interpretation of long‐term studies
Authors: LaRue Michelle A. , Kooyman Gerald , Lynch Heather J. , Fretwell Peter
Published: July 2014

Site fidelity is an important evolutionary trait to understand, as misinterpretation of philopatric behavior could lead to confusion over the key drivers of population dynamics and the environmental or anthropogenic factors influencing populations. Our objective was to explore the hypothesis that emperor penguins are strictly philopatric using satellite imagery, counts from aerial photography, and literature reports on emperor penguin distributions. We found six instances over three years in which emperor penguins did not return to the same location to breed. We also report on one newly‐discovered colony on the Antarctic Peninsula that may represent the relocation of penguins from the Dion Islands, recently confirmed as having been abandoned. Using evidence from aerial surveys and the historical literature, we suggest that emigration may have been partly responsible for the population decline at Pointe Géologie during the 1970s. Our study is the first to use remote sensing imagery to suggest that emperor penguins can and do move between, and establish new, colonies. Metapopulation dynamics of emperor penguins have not been previously considered and represent an exciting, and important, avenue for future research. Life history plasticity is increasingly being recognized as an important aspect of climate change adaptation, and in this regard our study offers new insight for the long‐term future of emperor penguins.
Overwintering dormancy behaviour of the European eel (Anguilla anguilla L.) in a large lake
Authors: Westerberg Håkan , Sjöberg Niklas
Published: July 2014

Overwintering dormancy behaviour was studied in female silver eels in Lake Mälaren in Sweden between 2008 and 2010. Depth choices and movements in relation to temperature were analysed from pressure and temperature records for 13 eels with implanted data storage tags, covering 17 overwintering periods and three intervening summer periods. Dormancy commenced in October–November as temperatures fell below 4–12 °C. Eels tended to remain motionless throughout the winter, with some short periods of activity signalled by small changes in depth distributions. During dormancy, the eel shows a clear avoidance of shallow areas <5 m in favour of the 10–25‐m‐depth interval. Activity tended to resume 4–6 months later in April–May as temperatures rose above 3–7 °C and ice cover broke, and eels spent more time at shallower depths of <5–10 m. The majority of the eels were assessed as being in the silver eel stage at the time of tagging. During the autumn months, the diving behaviour, with frequent and large vertical excursions and periods at the surface, was similar to that seen in migrating eels in the Baltic and Atlantic Ocean. In spring and summer, the behaviour differed, being dominated by more gradual depth variations, implying that the eels reverted from silver eel migration behaviour to yellow eel foraging behaviour. Body weight declined during dormancy, but other studies of starvation over comparable time periods showed significantly higher average specific weight losses, implying that the Mälaren silver eels must have fed between the end of dormancy and recapture.
Molecular evolution of the bacterial pseudouridine‐5′‐phosphate glycosidase protein family
Authors: Thapa Keshav , Oja Terhi , Metsä‐Ketelä Mikko
Published: July 2014

Pseudouridine is a noncanonical C–nucleoside commonly present in RNA, which is not metabolized in mammals, but can be recycled by the unique enzyme family of bacterial pseudouridine glycosidases such as YeiN from Escherichia coli. Here, we present rigorous bioinformatic and biochemical analyses of the protein family in order to find sequences that might code for nonpseudouridine glycosidase activities. To date, the only other function reported for the enzyme family occurs during the biosynthesis of the antibiotic alnumycin A in Streptomyces species, where AlnA functions as an unusual C–glycosynthase. Bioinformatics analysis of 755 protein sequences identified one group of sequences that were unlikely to harbour pseudouridine glycosidase activities. This observation was confirmed in vitro with one representative protein, IdgA from Streptomyces albus, which was unable to synthesize pseudouridine monophosphate, but was able to attach d–ribose‐5‐phosphate to juglone. Furthermore, our analyses provide evidence for horizontal gene transfer of pseudouridine glycosidases that may have occurred in Streptomyces and Doria species. Inspection of the genomic loci in the vicinity of pseudouridine glycosidases revealed that in 77% of the strains a kinase gene putatively involved in the phosphorylation of pseudouridine was found nearby, whereas the sequences encoding nonpseudouridine glycosidases coexisted with a phosphatase of the haloacid dehalogenase enzyme family. The investigation suggested that these unknown sequences might be involved in the biosynthesis of soluble blue pigments because of the presence of genes homologous to nonribosomal peptide synthetases.
Expression and immunohistochemical localization of leptin receptor in human periapical granuloma
Authors: Martín‐González J. , Carmona‐Fernández A. , Pérez‐Pérez A. , Sánchez‐Jiménez F. , Sánchez‐Margalet V. , Segura‐Egea J. J.
Published: July 2014

Aim

To investigate the expression and immunohistochemical localization of leptin receptor (LEPR) in human periapical granulomas.

Methodology

Periapical inflammatory lesions were obtained from extracted human teeth and teeth which underwent periapical surgery. After their histopathological categorization as periapical granulomas (n = 20), they were examined by immunohistochemistry using human LEPR monoclonal antibodies. LEPR mRNA expression was also determined by quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐PCR), and the amount of LEPR protein was analysed by immunoblot.

Results

All granuloma samples expressed LEPR. Amongst inflammatory cells, only macrophages showed expression of LEPR. Western blot analysis revealed the presence in the samples of a protein with apparent molecular weight of ~120 kDa, corresponding to the estimated molecular weight of LEPR. The qRT‐PCR analysis demonstrated the expression of LEPR mRNA, corresponding the size of the amplified fragment (338 bp), assessed by agarose gel electrophoresis, to that of LEPR mRNA.

Conclusions

Human periapical granulomas express LEPR. In periapical granulomas, only macrophages showed expression of LEPR. This finding suggests that leptin can play a role in inflammatory and immune periapical responses.
Characterisation of composite edible films based on wheat starch and whey‐protein isolate
Authors: Basiak Ewelina , Galus Sabina , Lenart Andrzej
Published: July 2014

Composite films prepared by casting wheat starch and whey‐protein isolate at proportions of 100–0%, 75–25%, 50–50%, 25–75% and 0–100% were characterised. Combination of both substances gave continuous and homogeneous films. The more the starch is in a film, the more dull is the appearance. The highest water adsorption was observed for pure whey‐protein films and the lowest for pure wheat starch films with the final water content of 0.264 and 0.324 g water g d.m.−1, respectively. An exponential equation well fitted the experimental data of water vapour kinetics (R2 ≥ 0.99). The highest values of thickness and elongation at break were observed for films obtained by blending of wheat starch and whey protein. With the increasing content of whey‐protein isolate, the values of the swelling index and tensile strength increased from 34.31% to 71.01% and from 2.29 to 8.90 MPa, respectively. The values of water vapour permeability depended on humidity conditions and decreased slightly with the increasing content of whey‐protein isolate.
Evaluation of the Effects of Topical Zinc Gluconate in Wound Healing
Authors: Kaufman Kathryn L. , Mann F. A. , Kim Dae Young , Lee Suhwon , Yoon Hun‐Young
Published: July 2014

Objective

To evaluate the effects of topical zinc gluconate on healing, analgesia, and bacterial growth of full‐thickness rat skin wounds.

Study Design

Experimental study.

Animals

Male Wistar rats (n = 98)

Methods

One full‐thickness round 2 cm × 2 cm surgically created wound on the dorsum of each rat received 1 of the following randomized treatments: zinc gluconate in carrier solution, carrier solution, saline (0.9% NaCl) solution, chlorhexidine, chlorhexidine + zinc gluconate, corticosteroid, and no treatment. At 4 and 21 days, biopsy samples were taken for histopathology. Bacterial cultures were performed on day 4. Subjective pain scores and weight were recorded daily.

Results

No significant differences were noted among the groups except the corticosteroid group, in which delayed healing was noted at 4 and 21 days. Bacterial isolates were similar and no differences in pain scores or weight gain were noted among groups. The wounds treated with corticosteroid at day 4 had decreased inflammatory cells and serocellular crust formation, and minimal neovascularization and granulation tissue formation. At day 21, that group had prolonged neutrophilic inflammatory cells, immature fibrosis, less re‐epithelialization, and more prominent serocellular crust.

Conclusion

Wounds treated with zinc gluconate healed similarly and contained similar bacterial load as wounds with other topical treatments except for corticosteroids. No treatment demonstrated the negative effects seen with topical corticosteroid nor did any demonstrate analgesic advantage.
Medium and Long Term Evaluation of Sliding Humeral Osteotomy in Dogs
Authors: Wendelburg Kristin M. , Beale Brian S.
Published: July 2014

Objective

To evaluate medium and long term effects of sliding humeral osteotomy (SHO) in dogs.

Study Design

Prospective study.

Animals

Dogs (n = 32).

Methods

Data (2008–2010) collected from medical records included force plate data, radiographs, and a 15 question owner survey of dog soundness before SHO and at final evaluation.

Results

All dogs except 2 exceeded their preoperative ground reaction forces in the operated limb and there was a statistically significant upward trend in ground reaction forces compared with the contralateral limb. Radiographic osteophytosis using the IEWG protocol had not progressed on the operated limb except in 1 dog. Most (90%) owners felt that lameness had diminished at the final evaluation compared with preoperative lameness. Ten dogs had postoperative complications; 6 were considered major, requiring further surgery.

Conclusions

SHO can be performed successfully in dogs to limit the radiographic progression of osteophytosis and increase use of the affected limb; however, the complication rate is high and further implant or technique modifications are needed to improve results.
H3K79 methylation directly precedes the histone‐to‐protamine transition in mammalian spermatids and is sensitive to bacterial infections
Authors: Dottermusch‐Heidel C. , Klaus E. S. , Gonzalez N. H. , Bhushan S. , Meinhardt A. , Bergmann M. , Renkawitz‐Pohl R. , Rathke C. , Steger K.
Published: July 2014

In both mammalian and Drosophila spermatids, the completely histone‐based chromatin structure is reorganized to a largely protamine‐based structure. During this histone‐to‐protamine switch, transition proteins are expressed, for example TNP1 and TNP2 in mammals and Tpl94D in Drosophila. Recently, we demonstrated that in Drosophila spermatids, H3K79 methylation accompanies histone H4 hyperacetylation during chromatin reorganization. Preceding the histone‐to‐protamine transition, the H3K79 methyltransferase Grappa is expressed, and the predominant isoform bears a C‐terminal extension. Here, we show that isoforms of the Grappa‐equivalent protein in humans, rats and mice, that is DOT1L, have a C‐terminal extension. In mice, the transcript of this isoform was enriched in the post‐meiotic stages of spermatogenesis. In human and mice spermatids, di‐ and tri‐methylated H3K79 temporally overlapped with hyperacetylated H4 and thus accompanied chromatin reorganization. In rat spermatids, trimethylated H3K79 directly preceded transition protein loading on chromatin. We analysed the impact of bacterial infections on spermatid chromatin using a uropathogenic Escherichia coli‐elicited epididymo‐orchitis rat model and showed that these infections caused aberrant spermatid chromatin. Bacterial infections led to premature emergence of trimethylated H3K79 and hyperacetylated H4. Trimethylated H3K79 and hyperacetylated H4 simultaneously occurred with transition protein TNP1, which was never observed in spermatids of mock‐infected rats. Upon bacterial infection, only histone‐based spermatid chromatin showed abnormalities, whereas protamine‐compacted chromatin seemed to be unaffected. Our results indicated that H3K79 methylation is a histone modification conserved in Drosophila, mouse, rat and human spermatids and may be a prerequisite for proper chromatin reorganization.
Towards a ‘Non‐Ideal’ Non‐Ideal Theory
Authors: Carey Brian
Published: July 2014

This article explores the role that considerations about the feasibility of a political proposal should play at the levels of both ideal and non‐ideal theory. Drawing on recent work in the literature on political feasibility, I begin by describing a ‘constraint‐based’ view of ideal and non‐ideal theory, with feasibility considerations serving different functions depending on whether they are operating at the ideal or non‐ideal level. Taking feasibility seriously at either level presents us with at least two important challenges. Firstly, we need principles which enable us to weigh the value of a proposal's feasibility against its other normatively significant properties, and against those of alternative proposals. Secondly, we need the capacity to gauge the nature of the epistemic constraints which apply to our feasibility assessments themselves. In response to these problems, I propose a ‘narrowing‐down’ approach, focused on developing our capacities to make accurate and reliable judgements about the feasibility of political proposals.
Comic Immoralism and Relatively Funny Jokes
Authors: Woodcock Scott
Published: July 2014

A widely accepted view in the philosophy of humour is that immoral jokes, like racist, sexist or homophobic jokes, can nevertheless be funny. What remains controversial is whether the moral flaws in these jokes can sometimes increase their humour. Moderate comic immoralism claims that it is possible, in at least some cases, for moral flaws to increase the humour of jokes. Critics of moderate comic immoralism deny that this ever occurs. They recognise that some jokes are both funny and immoral, yet they claim that it is always something other than the moral flaws of jokes that contribute to their humour. In a series of recent papers, Aaron Smuts has pressed this objection to moderate comic immoralism. I argue that Smuts' attempt to narrow the range of cases in which humour can be attributed to immoral features is not sufficient to demonstrate that moderate comic immoralism is false. Specifically, I claim that Smuts cannot rule out a case for moderate comic immoralism grounded in the possibility that humour is normatively relative while the ethical status of jokes is not.
Telocytes in liver regeneration: possible roles
Authors: Wang Fei , Song Yang , Bei Yihua , Zhao Yingying , Xiao Junjie , Yang Changqing
Published: July 2014

Telocytes (TCs) are a novel type of interstitial cells which are potentially involved in tissue regeneration and repair (www.telocytes.com). Previously, we documented the presence of TCs in liver. However, the possible roles of TCs in liver regeneration remain unknown. In this study, a murine model of partial hepatectomy (PH) was used to induce liver regeneration. The number of TCs detected by double labelling immunofluorescence methods (CD34/PDGFR‐α, CD34/PDGFR‐ß and CD34/Vimentin) was significantly increased when a high level of hepatic cell proliferation rate (almost doubled) as shown by 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) immunostaining and Western Blot of Proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) was found at 48 and 72 hrs post‐PH. Meanwhile, the number of CK‐19 positive‐hepatic stem cells peaked at 72 hrs post‐PH, co‐ordinating with the same time‐point, when the number of TCs was most significantly increased. Taken together, the results indicate a close relationship between TCs and the cells essentially involved in liver regeneration: hepatocytes and stem cells. It remains to be determined how TCs affect hepatocytes proliferation and/or hepatic stem cell differentiation in liver regeneration. Besides intercellular junctions, we may speculate a paracrine effect via ectovesicles.
Age‐based demographic and reproductive assessment of orangespine Naso lituratus and bluespine Naso unicornis unicornfishes
Authors: Taylor B. M. , Rhodes K. L. , Marshell A. , McIlwain J. L.
Published: July 2014

Bluespine unicornfish Naso unicornis and orangespine unicornfish Naso lituratus were sampled in Pohnpei and Guam, Micronesia, over 13 months to identify reproductive and age‐based demographic features necessary for informed management. Age and reproductive information were derived from analysis of sagittal otoliths and gonads. Both species had moderate life spans [maximum ages of 23 (N. unicornis) and 14 years (N. lituratus)] compared with published estimates of conspecifics from other locations (>30 years) and of other Naso species. Length at maturation for N. unicornis was similar between Pohnpei and Guam while females consistently matured at a larger size [c. 30 cm fork length (LF)] than males (c. 27 cm LF). This sex‐specific pattern was reversed in N. lituratus for which estimates of maturation length (females: 15 cm LF; males: 18 cm LF) were only obtained from Guam. Developmental patterns in female gonads of both species suggested that initiation of maturation occurs very early. Growth patterns of N. lituratus displayed rapid asymptotic growth compared with N. unicornis and other congeners as well as slight sex‐specific patterns of length‐at‐age. Results highlight the considerable spatial variation that may occur in the population biology of these species across various scales. Additionally, proper management remains complicated without improved knowledge of fishery trends and reproductive behaviour in unicornfishes, species that are prime fishery targets in Micronesia and elsewhere.
Effect of Light Aging on Silicone‐Resin Bond Strength in Maxillofacial Prostheses
Authors: Polyzois Gregory , Pantopoulos Antonis , Papadopoulos Triantafillos , Hatamleh Muhanad
Published: July 2014

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of accelerated light aging on bond strength of a silicone elastomer to three types of denture resin.

Materials and Methods

A total of 60 single lap joint specimens were fabricated with auto‐, heat‐, and photopolymerized (n = 20) resins. An addition‐type silicone elastomer (Episil‐E) was bonded to resins treated with the same primer (A330‐G). Thirty specimens served as controls and were tested after 24 hours, and the remaining were aged under accelerated exposure to daylight for 546 hours (irradiance 765 W/m2). Lap shear joint tests were performed to evaluate bond strength at 50 mm/min crosshead speed. Two‐way ANOVA and Tukey's test were carried out to detect statistical significance (p < 0.05).

Results

ANOVA showed that the main effect of light aging was the most important factor determining the shear bond strength. The mean bond strength values ranged from 0.096 to 0.136 MPa. The highest values were recorded for auto‐ (0.131 MPa) and photopolymerized (0.136 MPa) resins after aging.

Conclusions

Accelerated light aging for 546 hours affects the bond strength of an addition‐type silicone elastomer to three different denture resins. The bond strength significantly increased after aging for photo‐ and autopolymerized resins. All the bonds failed adhesively.
Effect of the Addition of Antimicrobial Agents on Shore A Hardness and Roughness of Soft Lining Materials
Authors: Urban Vanessa M. , Lima Thiago F. , Bueno Mirian G. , Giannini Marcelo , Arioli Filho João N. , de Almeida Ana Lúcia P. F. , Neppelenbroek Karin H.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

While the incorporation of antimicrobial agents into soft denture liners has been suggested as a reliable alternative treatment for denture stomatitis, it may affect the liner's properties. The effect of addition of antimicrobial agents for the treatment of denture stomatitis on the surface roughness and Shore A hardness of soft lining materials was evaluated.

Materials and Methods

The test groups comprised specimens (36 × 7 × 6 mm3) of soft materials (Softone and Trusoft) without (control) or with incorporation of drugs (nystatin, miconazole, ketoconazole, chlorhexidine diacetate, and itraconazole). Hardness (Shore A) and roughness (Ra) were evaluated after immersion of specimens (n = 10) in distilled water at 37°C for 24 hours, 7 and 14 days. Data were analyzed by 3‐way ANOVA/Tukey's test (α = 0.05).

Results

After 14 days, an increase (p < 0.05) was observed in the hardness of soft materials with time for the modified specimens, except for itraconazole. Addition of drugs increased the Softone roughness only for the addition of miconazole and chlorhexidine (p < 0.05), and did not increase the roughness of Trusoft with time. Only chlorhexidine and itraconazole altered the roughness compared to the control for each material (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The smallest changes of hardness and roughness with time in the modified groups compared to controls were observed for itraconazole groups for both materials.