bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inter‐agency cooperation between services for children and families in Ireland: does it improve outcomes?
Authors: McKeown Kieran
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to analyse the processes and outcomes of a five‐year initiative to develop inter‐agency working between services for vulnerable 10‐ to 18‐year‐olds in a disadvantaged area of Dublin, Ireland.

Design/methodology/approach

A case study methodology included: review of documentation on 32 formal meetings of the network; 43 interviews with agency personnel involved in the network; in‐depth review of nine randomly selected cases which had been treated according to the network's agreed protocol of inter‐agency case management.

Findings

The initiative created a vibrant inter‐agency process in terms of developing and implementing an agreed protocol for inter‐agency care planning. However, assessment of the outcomes for young people and their families showed that only a few made any improvement. Four reasons are suggested for this relatively modest result: the target group of 10‐ to 18‐year‐olds had experienced neglect and abuse over many years and this made it difficult to achieve positive outcomes for them; the quality and standard of work by some staff in some agencies was questionable; agencies did not seem to include inter‐agency work in assessing their overall performance, or the performance of individual staff; and most agencies did not seem to have adopted an outcome‐oriented, evidence‐based approach to their work.

Originality/value

The paper points out that an effective and inclusive inter‐agency process is necessary but not enough for improving child outcomes; the sufficient condition for improved child outcomes is effective intra‐agency processes to deliver high‐quality services and a policy environment that supports and requires it.
The non‐use of services: adolescents and sexual health provision in Ankara, Turkey
Authors: Çelik Kezban , Esin Ayşegül
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explain the sexual and reproductive health needs, barriers to accessing services as well as the expectations of the youth who do not use the services provided by the Youth Counseling and Health Service Centres in Ankara Province, Turkey.

Design/methodology/approach

The study is based on the results of 12 focus group discussions conducted with young people in the 8th (14‐ to 15‐year‐old) and 12th (aged 17‐ to 18‐year‐old) grades who are not service users.

Findings

The findings suggest that gender, socio‐economic level of the family, religion, the condition of the facilities and the visibility of the centres are factors affecting service usage.

Originality/value

The paper analyses factors that affect the use of services, such as male vs female, primary school vs high school, centre vs periphery, and shows how religion, region, gender, education and socio‐economic dimensions have to be taken into account in understanding the sensitivity of sexuality‐related issues among adolescents.
Outcomes among young adults placed in therapeutic residential care as children
Authors: Gallagher Bernard , Green Adam
Published: March 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to advance knowledge concerning outcomes among the former residents of therapeutic children's homes, especially those located in England.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 16 young adults who had been resident in one of seven therapeutic homes took part in interviews.

Findings

It appeared, from the information they gave in these interviews, that their outcomes were good in terms of their emotional and behavioural well‐being, physical health, accommodation, and absence of early parenthood and substance use. Some of the young adults also had good outcomes in respect of their education and absence of criminal convictions. A small number of the young adults did less well on these latter two measures but few of them were particularly poor in either of these respects. The young adults had limited contact with their family members.

Originality/value

The evidence from this research is that young adults who have been in therapeutic residential care can have good outcomes.
Towards an Agenda for Post‐carbon Cities: Lessons from Lilac, the UK's First Ecological, Affordable Cohousing Community
Authors: Chatterton Paul
Published: March 2013

This article explores an agenda towards post‐carbon cities, extending and deepening established debates around low‐carbon, sustainable cities in the process. The label post‐carbon builds upon issues beyond those of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, energy conservation and climate change, adding a broader set of concerns, including economic justice, behaviour change, wellbeing, land ownership, the role of capital and the state, and community self‐management. The article draws upon a case study of an embryonic post‐carbon initiative completed in early 2013 called Lilac. Based in Leeds, Lilac stands for Low Impact Living Affordable Community and is the first attempt to build an affordable, ecological cohousing project in the UK. Its three aspects each respond to significant challenges: low‐impact living and the challenge of post‐carbon value change; affordability and the challenge of mutualism and equality; and community and the challenge of self‐governance. I conclude the article by exploring six lessons from Lilac that tentatively outline a roadmap towards post‐carbon cities: the need for holistic approaches that deal with complex challenges, prioritizing self‐determination rather than just participation, engaging with productive political tensions, adopting a process rather than an outcomes‐based approach, developing strategy for replicability, and finally, embracing a non‐parochial approach to localities.
Integrated Contextual Learning and Food Science Students’ Perception of Work Readiness
Authors: Coorey Ranil , Firth Ann
Published: March 2013

Abstract:  The expectation that universities will produce graduates with high levels of work readiness is now a commonplace in government policies and statements from industry representatives. Meeting the demand requires that students gain industry related experience before graduation. Traditionally students have done so by undertaking extended work placements. With increasing numbers of students competing for a limited number of placements, virtual and simulated work environments are becoming popular alternative strategies. This paper describes the simulation of workplace practices through the introduction of integrated contextual learning (ICL) into the Food Science Program at Curtin Univ. as a way of enhancing employability and increasing students’ confidence that they are work ready.
Comparing Sexuality, Aggressiveness, and Antisocial Behavior of Alleged Juvenile Sexual and Violent Offenders,
Authors: Driemeyer Wiebke , Spehr Aranke , Yoon Dahlnym , Richter‐Appelt Hertha , Briken Peer
Published: March 2013

Sexual delinquency in juveniles is insufficiently explored in regard to the specificity of offender characteristics. The aim is to investigate relevant areas for juvenile sexual offending in a precourt, pretreatment group. Thirty‐two alleged juvenile sexual offenders (ASO) referred to by police were compared with 32 juvenile nonsexual violent offenders (VNO) on standardized measures of aggressiveness and psychopathology, antisocial behavior, substance use problems, and sexuality. Less externalizing disorders and antisocial behavior were found among the ASOs than among the VNOs. The ASO group was sexually less experienced, had less trust in their relationship abilities, fewer victimization experiences, and reported more sexual deviance, while pornography use and obscene calls were reported less often. Few juvenile sexual offenders had severe problems in the investigated areas. Including groups of offenders before court, treatment or incarceration in research appears crucial to understand the full spectrum of sexual deviance in youth and avoid misguidance due to selection factors.
Evaluating and Predicting the Oxidative Stability of Vegetable Oils with Different Fatty Acid Compositions
Authors: Li Hongyan , Fan Ya‐wei , Li Jing , Tang Liang , Hu Jiang‐ning , Deng Ze‐yuan
Published: March 2013

The aim of this research was to evaluate the oxidative stabilities and qualities of different vegetable oils (almond, blend 1‐8, camellia, corn, palm, peanut, rapeseed, sesame, soybean, sunflower, and zanthoxylum oil) based on peroxide value (PV), vitamin E content, free fatty acid, and fatty acid composition. The vegetable oils with different initial fatty acid compositions were studied under accelerated oxidation condition. It showed that PV and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) changed significantly during 21 d accelerated oxidation storage. Based on the changes of PV and fatty acid composition during the oxidation process, mathematical models were hypothesized and the models were simulated by Matlab to generate the proposed equations. These equations were established on the basis of the different PUFA contents as 10% to 28%, 28% to 46%, and 46% to 64%, respectively. The simulated models were proven to be validated and valuable for assessing the degree of oxidation and predicting the shelf life of vegetable oils.
Efficacies of Garlic and L. sakei in Wine‐Based Marinades for Controlling Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in Chouriço de Vinho, a Dry Sausage Made from Wine‐Marinated Pork
Authors: Linares María Belén , Garrido María Dolores , Martins Conceição , Patarata Luis
Published: March 2013

Chouriço de vinho is made from roughly minced (10 to 30 mm) pork and fat, seasoned with a marinade made from wine, salt, garlic, and other facultative seasonings used according to the recipe of each producer. The batter is maintained at 4 to 7 ºC for 24 to 48 h. It is then stuffed into natural thin pork gut, cold smoked and matured at a low temperature for 1 to 4 wk. The effect of garlic used in wine‐based marinade and a starter culture of indigenous Lactobacillus sakei on the behavior of Listeria monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in the processing of chouriço was investigated. The garlic (as powder and fresh juice) was found to contribute (P < 0.05) to the control of both pathogens in broth. Garlic dose, as tested within the usual limits used for seasoning, did not impact the reduction of pathogens. Garlic‐wine‐based marinade and a starter culture of indigenous L. sakei contribute to controlling L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. in the processing of chouriço. Their presence was responsible for the loss of viability of L. monocytogenes and Salmonella spp. following 5 d of drying, even sooner than situations where no garlic was used. The results of the present work show that the use of a wine‐based marinade with garlic has an important role in ensuring the safety of the product.
Mifepristone Pretreatment Reduces Ethanol Withdrawal Severity In Vivo
Authors: Sharrett‐Field Lynda , Butler Tracy R. , Berry Jennifer N. , Reynolds Anna R. , Prendergast Mark A.
Published: March 2013

Background

Prolonged ethanol (EtOH) intake may perturb function of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis in a manner that promotes dependence and influences EtOH withdrawal severity. Prior in vivo and in vitro studies suggest that corticosteroids, in particular, may be elevated during EtOH intoxication and withdrawal, suggesting that intracellular glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) may promote the development of EtOH dependence.

Methods

Adult male Sprague‐Dawley rats were subjected to a 4‐day binge‐like EtOH administration regimen (3 to 5 g/kg/i.g. every 8 hours designed to produce peak blood EtOH levels (BELs) of <300 mg/dl). Subgroups of animals received s.c. injection of the GR antagonist mifepristone (20 or 40 mg/kg in peanut oil at 0800 hours on each of the 4 days prior to withdrawal). BELs were assessed at 0900 and 1500 hours on Days 2 (D2) and 4 (D4) of the regimen. BEL, blood corticosterone levels (BCLs), and EtOH withdrawal–associated behavioral abnormalities were assessed 10 to 12 hours after the final EtOH administration.

Results

Daily mean EtOH doses for D1 to D4 of the regimen were 14.4, 9.9, 7.1, and 8.6 g/kg, respectively. The EtOH gavage regimen produced mean BELs of 255 mg/dl at 0900 on D2 and 156.2 mg/dl at 0900 on D4 of the regimen. Withdrawal from the EtOH exposure regimen, beginning 10 hours after the last EtOH administration, produced significant elevations in BCL and behavioral abnormalities including tremors, stereotypy, and “wet dog shakes.” Mifepristone administration did not alter food intake or weight during the 4‐day regimen, nor were there drug‐dependent differences in BEL or BCL on withdrawal day. Although mifepristone produced no significant changes in behavior of EtOH‐naïve animals, pretreatment with mifepristone (40 mg/kg) significantly reduced the severity of EtOH withdrawal.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that activation of GRs promotes neuroadaptation to binge‐like EtOH exposure, contributing to the development of EtOH dependence. Further, GRs may represent therapeutic targets to be exploited in reducing the severity of EtOH withdrawal.
The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly with Alcohol Use and Abuse on the Heart
Authors: Walker Robin K. , Cousins Valerie M. , Umoh Nsini A. , Jeffress Miara A. , Taghipour Delaram , Al‐Rubaiee Mustafa , Haddad Georges E.
Published: March 2013

Since its advent, alcohol has been utilized throughout history socially, for rituals, worship, and for its therapeutic, antibacterial, and analgesic properties. In moderation, alcohol consumption and its use are generally viewed as clinically beneficial. Excessive alcohol consumption on the other hand has been recognized as having several adverse implications. Excessive use increases the risk of liver and heart disease, metabolic disturbances, nutritional deficiencies, certain cancers, brain damage, dementia, neuropathy, as well as other facets of morbidity and mortality. This review targets the sequelae of alcohol consumption on the heart, specifically on myocardial contractility, calcium channel signaling, and intracellular signaling pathways. With the incidence of alcohol‐induced cardiac abnormalities being higher than previously thought, it is of increasing importance to elucidate the mechanisms behind them. Here, the cardiac effects of alcohol were not discussed in isolation but in conjunction with other important factors, such as high‐ and low‐density lipoprotein levels and vascular dilatory influences. We explore these mechanisms, in particular, the oxidative stress as the major contributor, as well as pathways that may prove to be cardioprotective. As such, we demonstrate the involvement of nuclear factor (erythroid‐derived 2)‐like 2 (NFE2L2/NRF2) as well as AKT that act as regulators of oxidative balance during oxidative stress responses. Thus, alcohol consumption may confer a cardioprotective effect when used in moderation through an AKT/NRF2‐dependent mechanism.
Activation of Cardiac Fibroblasts by Ethanol Is Blocked by TGF‐β Inhibition
Authors: Law Brittany A. , Carver Wayne E.
Published: March 2013

Background

Alcohol abuse is the second leading cause of dilated cardiomyopathy, a disorder specifically referred to as alcoholic cardiomyopathy (ACM). Rodent and human studies have revealed cardiac fibrosis to be a consequence of ACM, and prior studies by this laboratory have associated this occurrence with elevated transforming growth factor‐beta (TGF‐β) and activated fibroblasts (myofibroblasts). To date, there have been no other studies to investigate the direct effect of alcohol on the cardiac fibroblast.

Methods

Primary rat cardiac fibroblasts were cultured in the presence of ethanol (EtOH) and assayed for fibroblast activation by collagen gel contraction, alpha‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA) expression, migration, proliferation, apoptosis, collagen I and III, and TGF‐β expression. The TGF‐β receptor type 1 inhibitor compound SB 431542 and a soluble recombinant TGF‐βII receptor (RbII) were used to assess the role of TGF‐β in the response of cardiac fibroblasts to EtOH.

Results

Treatment for cardiac fibroblasts with EtOH at concentrations of 100 mg/dl or higher resulted in fibroblast activation and fibrogenic activity after 24 hours including an increase in contraction, α‐SMA expression, migration, and expression of collagen I and TGF‐β. No changes in fibroblast proliferation or apoptosis were observed. Inhibition of TGF‐β by SB 431542 and RbII attenuated the EtOH‐induced fibroblast activation.

Conclusions

EtOH treatment directly promotes cardiac fibroblast activation by stimulating TGF‐β release from fibroblasts. Inhibiting the action of TGF‐β decreases the fibrogenic effect induced by EtOH treatment. The results of this study support TGF‐β to be an important component in cardiac fibrosis induced by exposure to EtOH.
Rescaling White Space in Post‐apartheid Johannesburg
Authors: Clarno Andy
Published: March 2013

This paper traces three political mobilizations in the wealthy suburbs of Johannesburg: a boycott of redistributive tax policies, the creation of gated communities and residents’ associations, and the demand for residential city improvement districts (CIDs). I argue that state rescaling and networked governance are constituted through struggles over governmental power. I also argue for more attention to race in the political economy of scale. Struggles over the scalar, networked, and territorial dimensions of governance are constitutive moments in the shifting articulation of race, class, and space. An analysis of articulation highlights the role of territory, identity and imagination in the production of space, demonstrates that neoliberal forms of networked governance are products of struggle, and reiterates the feminist argument that governmental interventions are about more than just capital accumulation.
The Making of Fired Clay Bricks inChina Some 5000 Years Ago
Authors: Yang Yachang , Yu Shi‐Yong , Zhu Yizhi , Shao Jing
Published: March 2013

Fired bricks are a hard and durable masonry material that has played a major role in the emergence of early human urban civilization. InChina, fired clay bricks have been widely used as a building and flooring material since theQinDynasty (476−206bc), although a few lines of evidence show that fired clay bricks might have been invented as early as 5500 years ago in eastern centralChina. However, these burnt clumps of clay appear not to be bricks in the strict sense, and our knowledge about the origin of fired clay bricks inChina still remains fragmentary. Archaeological excavations at aMiddleNeolithic cultural site in northwesternChina reveal that the making of fired clay bricks began some 5000 years ago. Our findings also open a window into the process of prehistoric brickmaking in East Asia.
Effect of synchronization of donor cells in early G1‐phase using shake‐off method on developmental potential of somatic cell nuclear transfer embryos in cattle
Authors: Goto Yuji , Hirayama Muneyuki , Takeda Kazuya , Tukamoto Nobuyuki , Sakata Osamu , Kaeriyama Hiroshi , Geshi Masaya
Published: March 2013

In this study, we compared the developmental ability of somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos reconstructed with three bovine somatic cells that had been synchronized in G0‐phase (G0‐SCNT group) or early G1‐phase (eG1‐SCNT group). Furthermore, we investigated the production efficiency of cloned offspring for NT embryos derived from these donor cells. The G0‐phase and eG1‐phase cells were synchronized, respectively, using serum starvation and antimitotic reagent treatment combined with shaking of the plate containing the cells (shake‐off method). The fusion rate in the G0‐SCNT groups (64.2 ± 1.8%) was significantly higher than that of eG1‐SCNT groups (39.2 ± 1.9%) (P < 0.05), but the developmental rates to the blastocyst stage of SCNT embryos per fused oocytes were similar for all groups. The overall production efficiency of the clone offspring in eG1‐SCNT groups (12.7%) per recipient cow was higher than that in G0‐SCNT groups (3%) (P < 0.05). The mean birth weight of cloned calves and the average calving score in the G0‐SCNT groups (48.1 ± 3.4 kg and 3.3 ± 0.3, respectively) was significantly higher (P < 0.05) than those of eG1‐SCNT groups (37.2 ± 2.1 kg and 2.3 ± 0.2, respectively). Results of this study indicate that synchronization of donor cells in eG1‐phase using the shake‐off method improved the overall production efficiency of the clone offspring per transferred embryo.
Evaluation of changes in the taste of cooked meat products during curing using an artificial taste sensor
Authors: Nodake Kazumasa , Numata Masahiro , Kosai Kiichi , Kim Yun‐Jung , Nishiumi Tadayuki
Published: March 2013

The purpose of this study was to assess an evaluation method using an artificial taste sensor, in comparison with chemical analysis and sensory evaluation of the taste of meat during curing. Samples of Canadian pork were treated with salt, nitrite and phosphate. Curing time ranged from 0 to 168 h. In the sensory evaluation, there were no significant differences in the all characteristic items at 72‐h cured sample compared to the 0‐h sample. Some of the characteristic items for the 168‐h sample (umami, overall taste, richness and overall palatability) showed significant difference (P < 0.05) compared to the 0‐h sample. Taste sensor analysis indicated that the sensor outputs of bitterness and saltiness were significantly correlated with curing time (R = 0.98 and 0.97, respectively), and total free amino acids (R = 0.91 and 0.96, respectively). The sensor output of bitterness was significantly correlated (R = 0.96) with the sum of amino acids corresponding to bitter taste. The increase in the chemical components contributing to bitterness and/or saltiness was indicated as the cause of the characteristic taste. Taste sensor analysis may be applicable as a qualitative method for evaluating taste characteristics generated during the curing of manufactured cooked meat products.
Sex Difference in Formation of Propofol Metabolites: A Replication Study
Authors: Choong Eva , Loryan Irena , Lindqvist Marja , Nordling Åsa , el Bouazzaoui Samira , van Schaik Ron H. , Johansson Inger , Jakobsson Jan , Ingelman‐Sundberg Magnus
Published: March 2013

Women recover faster from propofol anaesthesia and have been described to have a higher incidence of awareness during surgery, compared to men – an effect that may be inherent in sex differences in propofol metabolism. In an observational study, 98 ASA I‐II patients treated with continuous propofol infusion were recruited. The associations between sex and CYP2B6 and UGT1A9 polymorphisms with dose‐ and weight‐adjusted area under the total plasma level time curves (AUC) for propofol, and its metabolites propofol glucuronide (PG), 4‐hydroxypropofol (OHP) and hydroxyl glucuronide metabolites 4‐hydroxypropofol‐1‐O‐β‐D‐glucuronide (Q1G) and 4‐hydroxypropofol‐4‐O‐β‐D‐glucuronide (Q4G), were analysed. Significantly higher AUC of PG (1.3 times, p = 0.03), Q1G (2.9 times, p < 0.001), Q4G (2.4 times, p < 0.01) and OHP (4.6 times, p = 0.01) were found in women (n = 53) than in men (n = 45) after intravenous infusion of propofol using target‐controlled infusion system. There was, however, no significant impact of gene polymorphisms on propofol biotransformation. The results, which are supported by a previous pilot study using a propofol bolus dose, suggest that, compared to men, more rapid propofol metabolism may occur in women – a factor that may contribute to the mentioned differences in the efficacy of propofol anaesthesia between male and female patients.
Psychosocial Outcomes of a Randomized Controlled Trial of Outpatient Cervical Priming for Induction of Labor
Authors: Turnbull Deborah , Adelson Pamela , Oster Candice , Bryce Robert , Fereday Jennifer , Wilkinson Chris
Published: March 2013

Background

Induction of labor, an increasingly common intervention, is often preceded by the application of an agent to “prime” or “ripen” the cervix. We conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare clinical, economic, and psychosocial outcomes of inpatient and outpatient cervical priming before induction of labor. In this paper we present the psychosocial outcomes.

Methods

Women participating in a randomized controlled trial in two Australian metropolitan teaching hospitals completed questionnaires to measure anxiety and depression at enrollment, and to examine satisfaction, experiences, depression, and infant feeding 7 weeks after giving birth. Data analysis was by intention to treat and by having received the intervention as intended (approximately 50% in each group).

Results

Of 1,004 eligible women, 85 percent consented (n = 407, outpatient; n = 414 inpatient). No statistically significant or clinically relevant differences were found in immediate anxiety, depression, or infant feeding. Small, statistically significant differences favoring outpatient priming were found in seven of the nine subscales in the 7‐week postpartum questionnaire. The direction of the effect was maintained, mostly with a larger effect size in women who received the intervention.

Conclusion

Women allocated to outpatient priming were more satisfied with their priming experience than women allocated to inpatient priming. Being informed that they could go home after cervical priming did not increase women's anxiety.
Have Guidelines About Smoking Cessation Support in Pregnancy Changed Practice in Victoria, Australia?
Authors: Perlen Susan , Brown Stephanie J. , Yelland Jane
Published: March 2013

Background

Antenatal smoking cessation guidelines have been available in Victoria, Australia, for the past decade. The objective of this study was to assess to what extent introduction of smoking cessation guidelines in pregnancy changed practice in Victorian public hospitals.

Methods

Two population‐based postal surveys of women giving birth in the state of Victoria, conducted in 2000 and 2008 before and after implementation of smoking cessation guidelines. Self‐administered questionnaires were distributed by hospitals and home birth practitioners to women 5–6 months postpartum.

Results

Surveys were completed and returned by 67 percent of eligible women (1,616/2,412) in 2000 and 51% (2,900/5,681) in 2008. Compared with the 2000 survey, women in the 2008 survey attending public sector care were more likely: to receive advice on how to stop smoking (Adjusted Odds Ratio: 2.2, 95% CI 1.5–3.2); to be given written information (Adj OR: 2.7, 95% CI 1.8–4.0); to be referred to stop smoking programs (Adj OR: 6.1, 95% CI 3.1–11.7); and to have discussed smoking cessation at more than one visit (Adj OR: 1.5, 95% CI 1.0–2.2). While the majority of women in both surveys were asked about smoking in early pregnancy, about half of those smoking did not receive advice on how to stop or cut down; were not given written information; were not told about/referred to stop smoking programs and were not asked again about smoking at subsequent visits. The significant shift in women's reports of receiving smoking cessation advice and support between the two surveys occurred predominantly at public hospitals where women received all or some antenatal care.

Conclusions

Smoking cessation guidelines in Victorian public hospitals have increased the extent to which pregnant women receive advice and support to stop or reduce smoking. However, half of smokers did not receive the full complement of advice and support according to state guidelines, with marked variability according to where and from whom women received antenatal care. Further efforts are needed to implement smoking cessation advice and support in clinical practice.
Re‐expression of microRNA‐150 induces EBV‐positive Burkitt lymphoma differentiation by modulating c‐Myb in vitro
Authors: Chen Shaohong , Wang Zhiqiang , Dai Xinzhen , Pan Jianhua , Ge Juan , Han Xiqun , Wu Zijing , Zhou Xinhua , Zhao Tong
Published: March 2013

Burkitt lymphoma (BL) is a highly aggressive B‐cell lymphoma that includes two forms of BL differing in Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection status, EBV‐positive and EBV‐negative. Although many efforts, such as high‐intensity, short‐duration combination chemotherapy, have been devoted to improving therapy for this rapidly proliferating neoplasm, there are still significant treatment‐associated toxicities. Therefore, there remains a need for novel effective therapeutic strategies. MicroRNAs play a role in “fine tuning” the physiological and pathological differentiation process, by which cells can rapidly regulate dynamic events such as cell‐lineage decisions and morphogenesis. This unique miRNA feature shifts the traditional one drug target paradigm to a novel one drug multiple targets paradigm. Here, we found that BL cell lines showed an extremely low expression of microRNA‐150 (miR‐150), and then restored miR‐150 expression at physiologic levels in BL cell lines Daudi, Raji, BJAB, and Ramos. The results showed that re‐expression of miR‐150 reduced proliferation of Daudi and Raji cells. Furthermore, Daudi and Raji, both of which are of EBV‐positive germinal center B‐cell origin, transduced with miR‐150 can be rescued to differentiate toward B‐cell terminal stage. However, no significant changes were observed in BJAB or Ramos cells, which are of EBV‐negative germinal center B‐cell origin. Of note, re‐expression of miR‐150 also resulted in decreasing c‐Myb protein levels. Additionally, c‐Myb knockdown in Daudi and Raji cell lines recapitulated the partial characteristics similar to that caused by re‐expression of miR‐150. Taken together, our findings show that miR‐150 can induce EBV‐positive BL differentiation by targeting c‐Myb.
THE EFFECT OF ABORTION LEGALIZATION ON CHILDBEARING BY UNWED TEENAGERS IN FUTURE COHORTS
Authors: OZBEKLIK SERKAN
Published: March 2013

This article examines the long‐term impact of legalized abortion on childbearing by unwed teenagers in the United States. I find that the 1970 legalization of abortion in the repeal states led to about a 6% reduction in unwed childbearing rates for white women aged 15–20 who were born in these states immediately after abortion became legal. I find a larger long‐term impact for African‐American women of the same ages: a 7.5%–13% reduction in unwed childbearing. My estimates are smaller and not as precise for the effect of Roe v. Wade. This outcome is not surprising given that I am able to estimate only a potential lower bound of the effect on unwed childbearing rates. On the other hand, when I estimated a Difference‐in‐Difference regression for the non‐repeal states assuming that there was no national trend that affected the childbearing behavior of the treatment age groups and their respective control age groups separately, I found that the true effect of Roe v. Wade on childbearing by unwed teenagers was about an 11% and 3% reductions for white and African‐American teenagers, respectively. (JEL J13, I18)
Polyodontia in donkeys
Authors: Rodrigues J. B. , Sanroman‐Llorens F. , Bastos E. , San Roman F. , Viegas C. A.
Published: March 2013

Polyodontia is defined as the presence of teeth in excess of the normal dental formula. In equids, supernumerary teeth are uncommon but, when present, are usually located mainly in the caudal aspects of the cheek teeth rows (distomolars), also being found adjacent to normal cheek teeth or even in an ectopic location. It is believed that this disorder is a result of an inappropriate differentiation of dental germinal tissue during gestational development, with external trauma also acting as an initiating factor, when teeth germs are affected. The presence of these abnormal teeth can lead to axial displacement, dental overgrowths, dental‐related soft tissue damage, diastemata formation, periodontal disease and development of secondary sinusitis. A large prospective, cross‐sectional study was performed in 800 donkeys, with the aim to investigate the prevalence and aetiopathogenesis of clinically diagnosed oral and dental disorders. Polyodontia was recorded in 2.25% of the donkeys, presenting 36 supernumerary teeth, with 2.80% being incisors and 97.20% cheek teeth, with prevalence increasing with age. The caudal aspects of the maxillary cheek teeth rows were the most common locations for supernumerary teeth development (distomolars). The mandible was far less commonly affected than the maxilla. Although polyodontia is uncommon in donkeys, it should be considered in the differential diagnosis of dental disease. A methodical oral examination and a complete radiographic survey of the entire dental arcades are crucial for a correct early diagnosis and treatment plan implementation. The increasing prevalence of fully erupted supernumerary teeth recorded in older groups suggested a late onset eruption process, and therefore, in donkeys undergoing regular dental prophylaxis, the presence of previously unnoticed supernumerary teeth should always be sought.
Gdf6 induces commitment of pluripotent mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells to the adipocyte lineage
Authors: Wang Shan‐Shan , Huang Hai‐Yan , Chen Su‐Zhen , Li Xi , Zhang Wen‐Ting , Tang Qi‐Qun
Published: March 2013

Mesenchymal stem cells have the potential to undergo commitment and differentiation into a variety of cell types, including osteoblasts, chondrocytes, myocytes and adipocytes. Growth differentiation factor 6 (Gdf6) is a member of the transforming growth factor β superfamily. We have examined the potential role of Gdf6 in adipogenesis of mesenchymal stem cells, and found that over‐expression of Gdf6 induced commitment of pluripotent mesenchymal C3H10T1/2 cells to the adipocyte lineage. The type I receptor Bmpr1a and the type II receptors Bmpr2 and Acvr2a mediate the Gdf6 signaling pathway. RNAi silencing of Smad4 and p38 MAPK suggested that both Smad and p38 MAPK pathways are involved in this process. The expression of Runx1t1 was down‐regulated in committed pre‐adipocytes, and forced expression of Runx1t1 blocked the adipocytic commitment. The results demonstrate a role for Gdf6 in adipocytic commitment and differentiation.
Effects of ecotypes and morphotypes in feedstock composition of switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.)
Authors: Bhandari Hem S. , Walker Dennis W. , Bouton Joseph H. , Saha Malay C.
Published: March 2013

Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) is a C4 grass with high biomass yield potential and is now a model species for the Bioenergy Feedstock Development Program. Two distinct ecotypes (e.g., upland and lowland) and a range of plant morphotypes (e.g., leafy and stemmy) have been observed in switchgrass. The objective of this study was to determine the influence of ecotype and morphotype on biomass feedstock quality. Leaf and stem tissues of leafy and stemmy morphotypes from both lowland and upland ecotypes were analyzed for key feedstock traits. The leaf : stem ratio of leafy morphotype was more than 40% higher than the stemmy morphotype in both upland and lowland ecotypes. Therefore, the stemmy morphotype has significant advantages over leafy morphotype during harvesting, storage, transportation and finally the feedstock quality. Remarkable differences in feedstock quality and mineral composition were observed in switchgrass genotypes with distinct ecotypic origins and variable plant morphotypes. Lignin, hemicelluloses and cellulose concentrations were higher in stems than in the leaves, while ash content was notably high in leaves. A higher concentration of potassium was found in the stems compared to the leaves. In contrast, calcium was higher and magnesium was generally higher in the leaves compared to stems. The upland genotypes demonstrated considerably higher lignin (14.4%) compared with lowland genotypes (12.4%), while hemicellulose was higher in lowland compared with upland. The stemmy type demonstrated slightly higher lignin compared with leafy types (P < 0.1). Differences between the ecotypes and morphotypes for key quality traits demonstrated the potential for improving feedstock composition of switchgrass through selection in breeding programs.
Platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio better predicts inflammation than neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio in end‐stage renal disease patients
Authors: Turkmen Kultigin , Erdur Fatih Mehmet , Ozcicek Fatih , Ozcicek Adalet , Akbas Emin Murat , Ozbicer Aysu , Demirtas Levent , Turk Suleyman , Tonbul H. Zeki
Published: March 2013

Neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) was introduced as a potential marker to determine inflammation in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) patients. Recently, platelet‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and NLR were found to positively correlated with inflammatory markers including tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) and interleukin (IL)‐6 in cardiac and noncardiac patients. Data regarding PLR and its association with inflammation are lacking in hemodialysis (HD) and peritoneal dialysis (PD) patients. Hence, we aimed to determine the relationship between PLR, NLR, and inflammation in ESRD patients. This was a cross‐sectional study involving 62 ESRD patients (29 females, 33 males; mean age, 49.6 ± 14.6 years) receiving PD or HD for ≥6 months in the Dialysis Unit of Necmettin Erbakan University. PLR, NLR, C‐reactive protein, TNF‐α, IL‐6 levels were measured. PLR, NLR, serum high sensitive C‐reactive protein, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels were significantly higher in PD patients when compared with HD patients. ESRD patients with PLR ≥ 140 had significantly higher NLR, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels when compared to patients with PLR < 139. In the bivariate correlation analysis, PLR was positively correlated with NLR, IL‐6, and TNF‐α in this population. When we compared the association of PLR and NLR with IL‐6 (r = 0.371, P = 0.003 vs. r = 0.263, P = 0.04, respectively) and TNF‐α (r = 0.334, P = 0.008 vs. r = 0.273, P = 0.032, respectively), PLR was found to be superior to NLR in terms of inflammation in ESRD patients. Simple calculation of PLR can predict inflammation better than NLR in ESRD patients.
Sincerity Silencing
Authors: Mcgowan Mary Kate
Published: March 2013

Catharine MacKinnon claims that pornography silences women in a way that violates the right to free speech. This claim is, of course, controversial, but if it is correct, then the very free speech reasons for protecting pornography appear also to afford reason to restrict it. For this reason, it has gained considerable attention.

The philosophical literature thus far focuses on a type of silencing identified and analyzed by Jennifer Hornsby and Rae Langton (H&L). This article identifies, analyzes, and argues for the importance of a different type of silencing.

As we shall see, there are compelling reasons in favor of regarding H&L silencing as a free speech violation and, as I argue here, the same can be said for sincerity silencing. Although additional work needs to be done to show that either one actually is a free speech violation, I demonstrate here that both types of silencing equally warrant this further attention. Moreover, I show that sincerity silencing is a fairly widespread phenomenon; so, therefore, is the harm it constitutes. As a result of these considerations, then, we can safely conclude that sincerity silencing also requires our attention.
Synthesis of a Violet Sr–Al–O:Eu2+ Phosphor Particle Using Elemental Al Diffusion
Authors: Komatsu Keiji , Tsuchida Shinya , Maruyama Hayato , Ohshio Shigeo , Akasaka Hiroki , Saitoh Hidetoshi , Nakamura Atsushi
Published: March 2013

A violet divalent europium‐doped strontium aluminate (Sr–Al–O:Eu2+) phosphor particle was synthesized from a metal‐ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid (EDTA) solution of Sr, Al, Eu, and particulate alumina via spray drying and sintering in a reducing atmosphere. The emission properties, crystal structures, cross‐sectional emissions, and elemental distributions of the obtained Sr–Al–O:Eu2+ phosphor particles were investigated. The product was determined to be secondary SrAl12O19:Eu2+ particles with an average diameter of 20 μm. The violet SrAl12O19:Eu2+ emission phase was found in a 1‐μm‐thick coating of the particles where elemental Al diffusion occurred. These particles are anticipated to find commercial applications such as paints.
Modulation of chelating factors, trace minerals and their estimated bioavailability in Italian and African sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) porridges
Authors: Proietti Ilaria , Mantovani Alberto , Mouquet‐Rivier Claire , Guyot Jean‐Pierre
Published: March 2013

Factors able to modulate chelating factors, trace minerals and their bioavailability were investigated in porridges of five sorghum (Sorghum bicolor (L.) Moench) varieties: from Nigeria, Senegal, Burkina Faso and two from Italy. Effects of variety and traditional fermentation and cooking were assessed on iron‐binding phenolic groups, phytates and iron and zinc content and bioavailability. Chelating factors, trace elements as well as the effect of processing (mainly fermentation) were modulated by variety. Fermentation decreased iron‐binding phenolic groups until 49% and phytate content until 72% as well as increased phytase activity 3.4–16.4 fold, leading to enhancement of iron and zinc estimated bioavailability. Cooking alone had almost no effect. The lowest chelating factors content and the highest trace minerals bioavailability were shown by fermented Senegal landrace, whereas the Italian varieties overall showed the worst results. The results indicate that selection of traditional varieties and appropriate processing methods can improve sorghum nutritional value.
Spanish‐style green table olive shelf‐life
Authors: Sánchez‐Gómez Antonio Higinio , García‐García Pedro , Garrido Fernández Antonio
Published: March 2013

Changes in the physicochemical and sensory characteristics of commercial whole, pitted and stuffed with pepper, garlic or anchovy paste Spanish‐style green table olives of the Gordal, Manzanilla and Hojiblanca cultivars were studied during a three‐year period. No olives developed any spoilage during this period, and at the end of it, all presentations were classified as ‘extra’ according to the sensory evaluation methodology issued by the International Olive Council. Throughout the shelf‐life, surface colour index and firmness of the olives degraded in accordance with a first‐order kinetics, while a gradual browning of the cover brines was observed; however, products added with ascorbic acid maintained a stable colour, while those with calcium content showed reduced firmness degradation. No significant changes in most of the sensory characteristics were observed by the panel test during shelf‐life and only slight changes in firmness, and surface colour were noticed in samples with significant differences in these attributes when measured instrumentally.
The policies of unemployment protection in Europe
Authors: Cinalli Manlio , Giugni Marco , Graziano Paolo Roberto
Published: March 2013

The abundant literature on welfare state policies, regimes or ‘worlds’ has been only limitedly interested in unemployment protection, and even less in youth unemployment protection. What is clearly lacking in the literature is an updated analysis of the most recent policies developed in European countries targeting youth. This mini‐symposium aims to fill in this gap by presenting findings from an EU‐funded research project entitled ‘Youth, Unemployment and Exclusion in Europe: A Multidimensional Approach to Understanding the Conditions and Prospects for Social and Political Integration of Young Unemployed’ (YOUNEX). The main aim of the research endeavour was to develop theory and contribute to empirical knowledge concerning the social and political exclusion of unemployed youth in Europe.
Radical cystectomy and orthotopic urinary diversion in male patients with pT4a urothelial bladder carcinoma: Oncological outcomes
Authors: Djaladat Hooman , Mitra Anirban P , Miranda Gus , Skinner Eila C , Daneshmand Siamak
Published: March 2013

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the oncological outcomes of radical cystectomy followed by orthotopic urinary diversion in male patients with urothelial bladder carcinoma involving prostatic stroma (pT4a). A total of 1964 patients with urothelial bladder carcinoma who underwent cystectomy between 1971 and 2008 were retrospectively analyzed. Among them, male patients with pT4aN0M0 disease at cystectomy and orthotopic urinary diversion were identified and included in the analysis. Exclusion criteria were perioperative mortality and primary urethrectomy. The outcomes were urethral recurrence, local recurrence, recurrence‐free survival and overall survival. Univariate and log–rank statistics were used to examine associations between variables and outcome. A total of 33 patients (1.7%) entered the study with a median age of 71 years. Median follow up was 4.8 years (range 0.1–21 years). A total of two urethral recurrences (6%) occurred at a median of 2.4 years after cystectomy. No patient had local recurrence. The 5‐year recurrence‐free survival and overall survival was 56% ± 10% and 56% ± 9%, respectively. The probability of urethral and local recurrence after orthotopic diversion in pT4a urothelial bladder carcinoma patients is low. Thus, orthotopic urinary diversion appears to be oncologically safe in this patient population.
A MC motif in silkworm Argonaute 1 is indispensible for translation repression
Authors: Zhu L. , Masaki Y. , Tatsuke T. , Li Z. , Mon H. , Xu J. , Lee J. M. , Kusakabe T.
Published: March 2013

Small RNA‐mediated gene silencing is a fundamental gene regulatory mechanism, which is conserved in many organisms. Argonaute (Ago) family proteins in the RNA‐induced silencing complex (RISC) play crucial roles in RNA interference (RNAi) pathways. In the silkworm Bombyx mori, four Ago proteins have been identified, named as Ago1, Ago2, Ago3 and Siwi. Ago2 participates in double‐stranded RNA (dsRNA)‐induced RNAi, whereas Ago3 and Siwi are involved in the Piwi‐interacting RNA (piRNA) pathway. However, there is no experimental evidence concerning silkworm Ago1 (BmAgo1) in the RNAi mechanism. In the present study, we analysed the function of BmAgo1 in the microRNA (miRNA)‐mediated RNAi pathway using tethering and miRNA sensor reporter assays. These results clearly demonstrate that BmAgo1 plays an indispensable role in translation repression in silkworm. Moreover, coimmunoprecipitation data indicated that BmAgo1 interacts with BmDcp2, an orthologue of mRNA‐decapping enzyme 2 (Dcp2) protein in the Drosophila processing‐bodies (P‐bodies). Substitutions of two conserved phenylalanines (F522 and F557) by valines in the MC motif strongly impaired the function of BmAgo1 in translation repression and its localization in P‐bodies, suggesting that these two amino acid residues in the MC motif of BmAgo1 are prerequisites for mRNA translation repression in B. mori.
Young Infants Match Facial and Vocal Emotional Expressions of Other Infants
Authors: Vaillant‐Molina Mariana , Bahrick Lorraine E. , Flom Ross
Published: March 2013

Research has demonstrated that infants recognize emotional expressions of adults in the first half year of life. We extended this research to a new domain, infant perception of the expressions of other infants. In an intermodal matching procedure, 3.5‐ and 5‐month‐old infants heard a series of infant vocal expressions (positive and negative affect) along with side‐by‐side dynamic videos in which one infant conveyed positive facial affect and another infant conveyed negative facial affect. Results demonstrated that 5‐month‐olds matched the vocal expressions with the affectively congruent facial expressions, whereas 3.5‐month‐olds showed no evidence of matching. These findings indicate that by 5 months of age, infants detect, discriminate, and match the facial and vocal affective displays of other infants. Further, because the facial and vocal expressions were portrayed by different infants and shared no face–voice synchrony, temporal, or intensity patterning, matching was likely based on detection of a more general affective valence common to the face and voice.