bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
No evidence for long‐term increases in biomass and stem density in the tropical rain forests of Australia
Authors: Murphy Helen T. , Bradford Matt G. , Dalongeville Alicia , Ford Andrew J. , Metcalfe Daniel J.
Published: September 2013

Pervasive increases in biomass and stem density of tropical forests have been recorded in recent decades, potentially having significant implications for carbon storage, biodiversity and ecosystem function. This trend is widely considered to be the result of multidecadal and global scale growth stimulation arising from increases in atmospheric CO2 and temperatures. However, contrasting patterns have been recorded across the tropics, and the role of disturbance in driving biomass and stem dynamics has been highlighted as an alternative explanation.

Australian tropical forests have rarely been assessed in pan‐tropical analyses of long‐term dynamics. We have measured recruitment, mortality and growth in 20 permanent plots in tropical forest across north‐eastern Australia since 1971. We assess changes in plot level above‐ground live biomass (AGB) and stem density, and compare our results with those documented over a similar time frame in the neo‐tropics.

No significant increase in AGB was found over the 40‐year time period. Above‐ground biomass tended to increase over the first two decades of the monitoring period and decrease in the final two with gain terms (growth and recruitment) lower than loss terms (mortality) by the final decade (2000s). Stem density significantly decreased over the monitoring period with recruitment consistently lower than mortality. There was large variation in individual plots in their pattern of AGB and stem density changes over time which was consistent with the response of each plot to known disturbance events, including cyclones, pathogen outbreaks and drought.

Our results are in contrast to those described for neo‐tropical plots which appear to show a widespread pattern of increasing growth and stem density.

Synthesis. The trend towards increasing biomass and stem density of tropical forests described for the neo‐tropics does not necessarily reflect patterns in areas of the tropics where large‐scale natural disturbances are relatively frequent. Australian tropical rain forests are either not increasing in productivity in response to global change, or cyclones and other regional and local mechanisms of change mask any evidence of larger‐scale patterns.
Occupational therapy and dementia care: A survey of practice in the Republic of Ireland
Authors: McGrath Margaret , O'Callaghan Claire
Published: September 2013

Background/aim

There is a growing body of research to support the role of occupational therapy in dementia care. However, little is known about the extent to which this research is translated into occupational therapy practice. This study addresses this gap by considering current occupational therapy practice in the field of dementia care in Ireland.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was used to gather data about current practice. Convenience sampling and snowball recruitment techniques were used to recruit occupational therapists. Data were analysed using a combination of descriptive statistics and content analysis.

Results

Forty‐seven therapists responded to the survey. The majority of respondents worked in primary care and provided services for people with early stage or mild dementia. Assessment practices were primarily focussed on cognitive screening and functional performance. Limited attention was paid to occupational participation. Interventions typically addressed environmental modification, assistive devices and compensatory strategies. The ability of therapists to apply research evidence to practice appears to be strongly constrained by practice and organisational demands.

Conclusion

There is a need for a global occupational therapy strategy to support knowledge translation in dementia care. At present although occupational therapists are aware of research evidence they face significant barriers in applying this evidence in practice.
Changes in bacterial metabolism as a response to dissolved organic matter modification during protozoan grazing in coastal Cantabrian and Mediterranean waters
Authors: Baña Zuriñe , Ayo Begoña , Marrasé Cèlia , Gasol Josep M. , Iriberri Juan
Published: September 2013

We explored how marine dissolved organic matter (DOM) altered by bacterial growth and protozoan grazing modify the metabolism of Southeastern Cantabrian Sea (CS) and NW Mediterranean Sea (MS) coastal bacterial communities. Major metabolic features were measured in treatments with half of the natural water replaced by water with different DOM quality, characterized by fluorescent DOM analysis and collected from key times of the predator–prey curve. In both ecosystems, protozoan‐altered DOM led to similar increases in bacterial carbon demand (238% and 213%) and decreases in bacterial growth efficiency (BGE: 56% for the CS and 46% for the MS). These low BGEs were caused by similar bacterial production but much higher bacterial respiration rates, which in turn were positively related to aminopeptidase activity. However, in the CS bacterial community dominated by Bacteroidetes (41%), the enhanced hydrolytic activity was produced at a lower metabolic cost than in the MS, dominated by SAR11 (47%), which suggests a better adaptation of Bacteroidetes to the DOM altered during protozoan grazing. These results highlight protozoan grazing as a relevant factor influencing BGE in coastal ecosystems, and relate bacterial community composition to the major metabolic processes that result after a change in the quality of marine DOM.
Cob gene pyrosequencing enables characterization of benthic dinoflagellate diversity and biogeography
Authors: Kohli Gurjeet S. , Neilan Brett A. , Brown Mark V. , Hoppenrath Mona , Murray Shauna A.
Published: September 2013

Dinoflagellates in marine benthic habitats living epiphytically on macroalgae are an important but highly understudied group of protists. Many produce toxins that can have severe economic impacts on marine‐based economies, and improved monitoring tools are required to enhance the management of toxin‐related hazards. We analysed the distribution and diversity of epibenthic dinoflagellates inhabiting eight sites in Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Papua New Guinea, and Broome and Exmouth, Western Australia. We used pyrosequencing approaches based on two DNA barcoding marker genes – 18S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) and mitochondrial cytochrome b (cob) – and compared these to an approach based on clone libraries (197 sequences) using the cob gene. Dinoflagellate sequences accounted for 133 [64 unique operational taxonomic units (OTU)] out of 10 529 18S rRNA gene sequences obtained from all samples. However, using the dinoflagellate specific assay targeting the cob gene marker, we obtained 9748 (1217 unique OTU) dinoflagellate sequences from the same environmental samples, providing the largest, to date, set of dinoflagellate cob gene sequences and reliable estimates of total dinoflagellate richness within the samples and biogeographic comparisons between samples. This study also reports the presence of potentially toxic species of the genera Gambierdiscus, Ostreopsis, Coolia, Prorocentrum and Amphidinium from the above‐mentioned geographical regions.
Metabolic versatility of toluene‐degrading, iron‐reducing bacteria in tidal flat sediment, characterized by stable isotope probing‐based metagenomic analysis
Authors: Kim So‐Jeong , Park Soo‐Je , Cha In‐Tae , Min Deullae , Kim Jin‐Seog , Chung Won‐Hyung , Chae Jong‐Chan , Jeon Che Ok , Rhee Sung‐Keun
Published: September 2013

DNA stable isotope probing and metagenomic sequencing were used to assess the metabolic potential of iron‐reducing bacteria involved in anaerobic aromatic hydrocarbon degradation in oil spill‐affected tidal flats. In a microcosm experiment, 13C‐toluene was degraded with the simultaneous reduction of Fe(III)‐NTA, which was also verified by quasi‐stoichiometric 13C‐CO2 release. The metabolic potential of the dominant member affiliated with the genus Desulfuromonas in the heavy DNA fraction was inferred using assembled scaffolds (designated TF genome, 4.40 Mbp with 58.8 GC mol%), which were obtained by Illumina sequencing. The gene clusters with peripheral pathways for toluene and benzoate conversion possessed the features of strict and facultative anaerobes. In addition to the class II‐type benzoyl‐CoA reductase (Bam) of strict anaerobes, the class I‐type (Bcr) of facultative anaerobes was encoded. Genes related to the utilization of various anaerobic electron acceptors, including iron, nitrate (to ammonia), sulfur and fumarate, were identified. Furthermore, genes encoding terminal oxidases (caa3, cbb3 and bd) and a diverse array of genes for oxidative stress responses were detected in the TF genome. This metabolic versatility may be an adaptation to the fluctuating availability of electron acceptors and donors in tidal flats.
Proteomic characterization of the acid tolerance response in Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus CAUH1 and functional identification of a novel acid stress‐related transcriptional regulator Ldb0677
Authors: Zhai Zhengyuan , Douillard François P. , An Haoran , Wang Guohong , Guo Xinghua , Luo Yunbo , Hao Yanling
Published: September 2013

To overcome the deleterious effects of acid stress, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus (L. bulgaricus) elicits an adaptive response to acid stress. In this study, proteomics approach complemented by transcriptional analysis revealed some cellular changes in L. bulgaricus CAUH1 during acid adaptation. We observed an increase of glycolysis‐associated proteins, promoting an optimal utilization of carbohydrates. Also, rerouting of the pyruvate metabolism to fatty acid biosynthesis was observed, indicating a possible modification of the cell membrane rigidity and impermeability. In addition, expression of ribosomal protein S1 (RpsA) was repressed; however, the expression of EF‐Tu, EF‐G and TypA was up‐regulated at both protein and transcript levels. This suggests a reduction of protein synthesis in response to acid stress along with possible enhancement of the translational accuracy and protein folding. It is noteworthy that the putative transcriptional regulator Ldb0677 was 1.84‐fold up‐regulated. Heterologous expression of Ldb0677 was shown to significantly enhance acid resistance in host strain Lactococcus lactis. To clarify its role in transcriptional regulation network, the DNA‐binding specificity of Ldb0677 was determined using bacterial one‐hybrid and electrophoretic mobility shift assay. The identification of a binding motif (SSTAGACR) present in the promoter regions of 22 genes indicates that it might function as a major regulator in acid stress response in L. bulgaricus.
Dispersal limitation structures fungal community assembly in a long‐term glacial chronosequence
Authors: Cline Lauren C. , Zak Donald R.
Published: September 2013

Microbial communities in soil mediate biogeochemical processes; however, understanding forces shaping their composition and function remains a gap in our ecological knowledge. We investigated phylogenetic turnover and functional gene composition of saprotrophic fungi along a 4000‐year glacial chronosequence. A direct relationship between β‐diversity and geographic distance, a proxy for time since deglaciation, indicated that dispersal limitation shapes saprotrophic fungal communities. Further, we infer that dispersal limitation may also influence fungal functional properties as metabolic potential and functional richness increased with site age. Despite attempts to minimize environmental variation, a direct relationship between β‐diversity and biogeochemical differences across sites indicated that environmental filtering further shapes fungal community composition. However, environmental filtering was overshadowed by the effect of dispersal limitation when tested by multiple regression. Fungal β‐diversity and composition of functional genes involved in plant litter decay were unrelated, suggesting that functional traits are not phylogenetically conserved across this chronosequence. Our study suggests that dispersal limitation operates in structuring present‐day fungal community composition and functional potential. Further, we demonstrate the need to integrate functional and phylogenetic approaches to more accurately portray microbial communities and their functional capacities.
Statements of special educational needs and mainstream secondary physical education in north‐west England
Authors: Maher Anthony
Published: September 2013

This article, by Anthony Maher of the University of Central Lancashire, explores, from the perspective of SENCos and learning support assistants (LSAs) in north‐west England, the perceived adequacy of Statements of special educational needs as they relate to physical education (PE). The findings, generated via online surveys, suggest that most SENCos and some LSAs believe that Statements are appropriate for all curricular subjects, with PE being no different. Thus, two groups who play an integral role in facilitating the inclusion of pupils with special educational needs in mainstream secondary schools in England do not differentiate between classroom based and more physically orientated subjects such as PE, which could have a negative impact on the experiences of pupils with special educational needs in PE because of the contextual and dynamic nature of special educational needs. Indeed, because most Statements do not provide PE‐specific information or learning targets, teachers and LSAs are often unable to collaboratively plan and deliver inclusive lessons or monitor and evaluate the progress made by Statemented pupils in PE.
Comparing children's attitudes towards disability
Authors: Cairns Bernadette , McClatchey Kirstie
Published: September 2013

This study, carried out by Bernadette Cairns, principal officer for Additional Support Needs and Early Education in the Highland Council Additional Support Needs Team, and Kirstie McClatchey, a research assistant in the Highland Council Psychological Service, explores children's attitudes towards disability, making a comparison between a school with a high number of pupils with additional support and complex needs where the philosophy was one of inclusion, and a school with few children with additional support needs. An opportunity sample of children (N = 82) in Scotland was obtained, and interview data were collected from pupils regarding video clips they had viewed of children with varying disabilities. Results found that children from the more inclusive school had a greater number of prior experiences of children with disabilities, made different suggestions for helping children with disabilities and had more positive attitudes towards having a pupil with disabilities in their own class. To conclude, these findings suggest that inclusion in schools may lead to a positive effect on children's acceptance and understanding of disabilities.
Does Diversity Erode Social Cohesion? Conceptual and Methodological Issues
Authors: Ariely Gal
Published: September 2013

Robert Putnam's ‘hunkering down’ thesis regarding the negative effect of ethnic diversity on trust and willingness to participate in collective life launched an ongoing debate concerning the ramifications of diversity for social cohesion. Findings regarding the way in which diversity affects social cohesion are discrepant, some scholars arguing that diversity has negative effects on social cohesion and others indicating insignificant or even positive effects. This study claims that these conflicting conclusions are explained by the vagueness of social cohesion – a multidimensional concept. Analyzing cross-national survey data from 42 European countries, it demonstrates how diversity is variably related to the diverse dimensions and operationalization of social cohesion. While diversity is not associated with the most commonly adduced dimension of social cohesion – namely, interpersonal trust – it does possess a negative relation to two other dimensions of social cohesion: belonging and social solidarity. Even these negative relations are not consistent across different operationalizations of belonging and social solidarity, however. In the face of increasing concerns regarding the implications of diversity for social cohesion, these findings demonstrate that caution must be exercised when examining the relations between these two phenomena.
Bernard Williams and the Basic Legitimation Demand: A Defence
Authors: Hall Edward
Published: September 2013

In this article I discuss Bernard Williams' realist conception of legitimacy. According to his critics Williams tacitly incorporates various moral claims, endorses a philosophically suspect ‘consensus’ view of politics, and employs an unrealistic and moralised conception of political rule. I argue that these criticisms mischaracterise the nature of the basic legitimation demand and the judgements about the acceptability of the state at its core and conclude that political theorists who object to the direction and style of much contemporary political theory should take seriously the possibility of developing an appropriately ‘political’ political theory on Williamsian lines.
Democracy as the Search for Justice: A Defence of the Democracy/Contractualism Analogy
Authors: Howard Jeffrey W.
Published: September 2013

This article advances a partially epistemic justification of democratic authority by defending what David Estlund has called the democracy/contractualism analogy: the idea that democracy can track justice due to crucial similarities between effective democratic politics and the hypothetical deliberations employed by contractualist liberals to explicate or construct correct principles of justice. According to this analogy, the collective decision making definitive of democracy is best conceived as an attempt to realise the process of intersubjective justification that (according to contractualist liberals) defines what is just; therefore, any tendency democracy might have to produce just outcomes could conceivably be attributed to the success of such an attempt. This article explains why Estlund's arguments against the analogy fail. It argues that in a society in which the modes of reasoning specified by the analogy are widely entrenched, there is a justifiable presumption that majoritarian voting will have a tendency to result in reasonable outcomes.
Improving Quality and Safety of Care Using “Technovigilance”: An Ethnographic Case Study of Secondary Use of Data from an Electronic Prescribing and Decision Support System
Authors: DIXON‐WOODS MARY , REDWOOD SABI , LESLIE MYLES , MINION JOEL , MARTIN GRAHAM P. , COLEMAN JAMIE J.
Published: September 2013

Context

“Meaningful use” of electronic health records to improve quality of care has remained understudied. We evaluated an approach to improving patients’ safety and quality of care involving the secondary use of data from a hospital electronic prescribing and decision support system (ePDSS).

Methods

We conducted a case study of a large English acute care hospital with a well‐established ePDSS. Our study was based on ethnographic observations of clinical settings (162 hours) and meetings (28 hours), informal conversations with clinical staff, semistructured interviews with ten senior executives, and the collection of relevant documents. Our data analysis was based on the constant comparative method.

Findings

This hospital's approach to quality and safety could be characterized as “technovigilance.” It involved treating the ePDSS as a warehouse of data on clinical activity and performance. The hospital converted the secondary data into intelligence about the performance of individuals, teams, and clinical services and used this as the basis of action for improvement. Through a combination of rapid audit, feedback to clinical teams, detailed and critical review of apparent omissions in executive‐led meetings, a focus on personal professional responsibility for patients’ safety and quality care, and the correction of organizational or systems defects, technovigilance was—based on the hospital's own evidence—highly effective in improving specific indicators. Measures such as the rate of omitted doses of medication showed marked improvement. As do most interventions, however, technovigilance also had unintended consequences. These included the risk of focusing attention on aspects of patient safety made visible by the system at the expense of other, less measurable but nonetheless important, concerns.

Conclusions

The secondary use of electronic data can be effective for improving specific indicators of care if accompanied by a range of interventions to ensure proper interpretation and appropriate action. But care is needed to avoid unintended consequences.
Tragic Choices and Moral Compromise: The Ethics of Allocating Kidneys for Transplantation
Authors: HOFFMASTER BARRY , HOOKER CLIFF
Published: September 2013

Context

For almost a decade, the Kidney Transplantation Committee of the United Network for Organ Sharing has been striving to revise its approach to allocating kidneys from deceased donors for transplantation. Two fundamental values, equality and efficiency, are central to distributing this scarce resource. The prevailing approach gives primacy to equality in the temporal form of first‐come, first‐served, whereas the motivation for a new approach is to redeem efficiency by increasing the length of survival of transplanted kidneys and their recipients. But decision making about a better way of allocating kidneys flounders because it is constrained by the amorphous notion of “balancing” values.

Methods

This article develops a more fitting, productive approach to resolving the conflict between equality and efficiency by embedding the notion of compromise in the analysis of a tragic choice provided by Guido Calabresi and Philip Bobbitt. For Calabresi and Bobbitt, the goals of public policy with respect to tragic choices are to limit tragedy and to deal with the irreducible minimum of tragedy in the least offensive way. Satisfying the value of efficiency limits tragedy, and satisfying the value of equality deals with the irreducible minimum of tragedy in the least offensive way. But both values cannot be completely satisfied simultaneously. Compromise is occasioned when not all the several obligations that exist in a situation can be met and when neglecting some obligations entirely in order to fulfill others entirely is improper. Compromise is amalgamated with the notion of a tragic choice and then used to assess proposals for revising the allocation of kidneys considered by the Kidney Transplantation Committee.

Findings

Compromise takes two forms in allocating kidneys: it occurs within particular approaches to allocating kidneys because neither equality nor efficiency can be fully satisfied, and it occurs over the course of sequential approaches to allocating kidneys that cycle between preferring equality and efficiency. Ross and colleagues’ Equal Opportunity Supplemented by Fair Innings proposal for allocating kidneys best exemplifies the rationality of compromise as a way of achieving the goals of making a tragic choice.

Conclusions

The attempt to design a policy for allocating kidneys from deceased donors for transplantation by balancing the values of equality and efficiency is misguided and unhelpful. Instead policymaking should both incorporate compromise into discrete approaches to allocating kidneys and extend compromise over sequential approaches to allocating kidneys.
Quality–Price Competition and Product R&D Investment Policies in Developing and Developed Countries
Authors: Ishii Yasunori
Published: September 2013

This study establishes a third‐country trade model where firms from developing and developed countries invest into product R&D under their governments' subsidisation policies to analyse firms' quality–price choices and governments' optimal product R&D investment policies. We show that a rise in the developing (developed) country's product R&D subsidy makes firms' quality–price competition more (less) intense and that the governments' optimal product R&D policies, depending on the features of their quality and demand functions, can both be subsidies even under Bertrand price competition, contrary to the findings of previous studies.
Phylogenetic resolution power of microsatellites and various single‐nucleotide polymorphism types assessed in 10 divergent chicken populations
Authors: Granevitze Z. , David L. , Twito T. , Weigend S. , Feldman M. , Hillel J.
Published: September 2013

There has been some debate over the question of which types of DNA variation are most appropriate to accurately reconstruct evolutionary events. We compared the capacity of microsatellites (STRs) and various types of single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) loci in the chicken genome. The SNP types differ in their location: in exons, introns and promoters. Genetic distances between all possible pairs of 10 populations were calculated for each marker type. STR loci, which are much more polymorphic than are SNPs, are considered to have occurred at recent time compared with old evolutionary events of SNPs. Using structure software, STR loci assigned individuals to their population much more correctly than did any other marker types, whereas SNPs at promoter regions gave the poorest ascription. Furthermore, 29 STR markers were even better than all 152 SNPs together. Ancient evolutionary events that produced genetic differences between the most distant populations such as Red Jungle Fowl and domestic chicken were detected better by exons and introns than by STR loci and promoters. The significant interactions found between marker types and populations suggest that marker types had different phylogenetic histories, possibly related to a different timescale.
Aged Care Assessment Service practitioners: A review of current practice for assessment of cognition of older people of culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in Victoria
Authors: Vrantsidis Freda , LoGiudice Dina , Rayner Victoria , Dow Briony , Antonopoulos Stephanie , Runci Susannah , O'Connor Daniel W. , Haralambous Betty
Published: September 2013

Aim

This paper describes current practices and gaps identified by Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) clinicians in the assessment of cognition of clients of culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) background in Victoria.

Method

A web‐based survey, exploring practices and challenges faced by clinicians in assessing CALD clients and their families, was sent to all Victorian ACAS managers to distribute to their teams. Three focus groups were also conducted with ACAS clinicians to further explore these issues.

Results

Seventy‐nine web‐based surveys were returned and 21 ACAS clinicians attended a focus group. Challenges reported included the availability and quality of interpreters, and variability in training received and confidence in assessing cognitive impairment in CALD clients.

Conclusion

ACAS clinicians reported that assessment of cognition for those of CALD background was challenging. Based on this feedback, practice tip sheets were developed as educational aids to assist ACAS staff.
Emergency obstetric simulation training: How do we know where we are going, if we don't know where we have been?
Authors: Calvert Katrina L. , Mcgurgan Paul M. , Debenham Edward M. , Gratwick Frances J. , Maouris Panos
Published: September 2013

Background

Obstetric emergencies contribute significantly to maternal morbidity and mortality. Current training in the management of obstetric emergencies in Australia and internationally focusses on utilising a multidisciplinary simulation‐based model. Arguments for and against this type of training exist, using both economic and clinical reasoning.

Aims

To identify the evidence base for the clinical impact of simulation training in obstetric emergencies and to address some of the concerns regarding appropriate delivery of obstetric emergency training in the Australian setting.

Methods

A literature search was performed to identify research undertaken in the area of obstetric emergency training. The initial literature search using broad search terms identified 887 articles which were then reviewed and considered for inclusion if they provided original research with a specific emphasis on the impact of training on clinical outcomes.

Results

Ninety‐two articles were identified, comprising evidence in the following clinical situations: eclampsia, shoulder dystocia, postpartum haemorrhage, maternal collapse, cord prolapse and teamwork training. Evidence exists for a benefit in knowledge or skills gained from simulation training and for the benefit of training in small units without access to high‐fidelity equipment or facilities.

Conclusions

Evidence exists for a positive impact of training in obstetric emergencies, although the majority of the available evidence applies to evaluation at the level of participants’ confidence, knowledge or skills rather than at the level of impact on clinical outcomes. The model of simulation‐based training is an appropriate one for the Australian setting and should be further utilised in rural and remote settings.
Accuracy of sonographic prediction of birth weight
Authors: Oliver Melissa , McNally Glenn , Leader Leo
Published: September 2013

Many clinicians use ultrasound estimates of fetal weight to assess fetal growth. This study assessed the accuracy of the Hadlock IV equation, the equation used at the Royal Hospital for Women, Randwick, NSW, in estimating birth weight. The accuracy of the Hadlock IV equation was assessed based on systematic and random error as well as absolute error. 709 women who underwent ultrasound examination within 8 weeks of delivery between January 2009–May 2011 were included. 305 women underwent ultrasound less than 2 weeks before delivery. The systematic, random and absolute errors of the Hadlock IV equation were −0.47, 27.45 and 8.52%, respectively. This study demonstrates that clinicians may rely on ultrasound estimates of fetal weight performed by well‐trained staff in a tertiary institution within 2 weeks of delivery. The accuracy diminishes as the interval between testing and delivery increases. Absolute errors tended to increase with increasing birth weight for all ultrasound‐delivery intervals.
The allure and privileging of danger over everyday practice in field research
Authors: Nelson Ingrid L
Published: September 2013

Many geographers in ‘closed’ research contexts focus on the problem of coerced subject responses in a ‘climate of fear’, the challenges of protecting respondents' identities and the potential political or physical harms that research results might produce once published. However, I argue that privileging possible harm from research products (including sensitive data and results) diverts attention away from crucial details that are seemingly less exciting and dangerous, yet are key for understanding power dynamics playing out in and shaping these sites. Shifting our focus towards the everyday details of embodied comportment in the research process reveals other potential harms, such as what we eat beyond the forest grove and the actions of the research intermediaries with whom we work (such as drivers). Based on 18 months of ethnographic fieldwork inMozambique, I draw attention to embodied practices and intermediary relationships that are crucial for the larger project of locating practices of closure across diverse scales and for examining the roles of researchers in closed contexts.
Changes in angiogenesis and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α protein expression in relapsed/refractory indolent non‐Hodgkin lymphomas
Authors: Minoia Carla , Quero Carmela , Asselti Mariaconsilia , Galise Ida , Marzano Alessia L. , Iacobazzi Angela , Rana Antonio , Merchionne Francesca , Serratì Simona , De Tullio Giacoma , Quintana Giovanni , Casiello Michela , Maiorano Eugenio , Simone Giovanni , Zito Francesco A. , Iacopino Pasquale , Guarini Attilio
Published: September 2013

Angiogenesis is involved in the pathogenesis and progression of non‐Hodgkin lymphomas (NHL), and hypoxia‐inducible factor‐1α (HIF‐1α, also termed HIF1A) might contribute to this process. Currently, there is no direct evidence that the clinical progression of indolent NHL is associated with angiogenesis, and the expression of HIF‐1α at recurrence is unknown. Matched lymph node biopsies at diagnosis and recurrence of relapsed/refractory indolent NHL patients were analysed by immunohistochemical and morphometric analysis. We observed an increased vascular network and HIF‐1α protein expression in the second biopsy, providing direct evidence that angiogenesis is an essential process for disease progression.
Palaeoenvironmental record of glacial lake evolution during the early Holocene at Sokli, NE Finland
Authors: Shala Shyhrete , Helmens Karin F. , Jansson Krister N. , Kylander Malin E. , Risberg Jan , Löwemark Ludvig
Published: September 2013

The development of a glacial lake impounded along the retreating, northeastern ice margin of the Fennoscandian Ice Sheet during the last deglaciation and environmental conditions directly following the early Holocene deglaciation have been studied in NE Finland. This so‐called Sokli Ice Lake has been reconstructed previously using topographic and geomorphologic evidence. In this paper a multiproxy approach is employed to study a 3‐m‐thick sediment succession consisting of laminated silts grading into gyttja cored in Lake Loitsana, a remnant of the Sokli Ice Lake. Variations in the sediment and siliceous microfossil records indicate distinct changes in water depth and lake size in the Loitsana basin as the Sokli Ice Lake was drained through various spillways opening up along the retreating ice front. Geochemical data (XRF core‐scanning) show changes in the influence of regional catchment geochemistry (Precambrian crystalline rocks) in the glacial lake drainage area versus local catchment geochemistry (Sokli Carbonatite Massif) within the Lake Loitsana drainage area during the lake evolution. Principal component analysis on the geochemical data further suggests that grain‐size is an additional factor responsible for the variability of the sediment geochemistry record. The trophic state of the lake changed drastically as a result of morphometric eutrophication once the glacial lake developed into Lake Loitsana. The AMS radiocarbon dating on tree birch seeds found in the glaciolacustrine sediment indicates that Lake Loitsana was deglaciated sometime prior to 10 700 cal. a BP showing that tree Betula was present on the deglaciated land surrounding the glacial lake. Although glacial lakes covered large areas of northern Finland during the last deglaciation, only few glaciolacustrine sediment successions have been studied in any detail. Our study shows the potential of these sediments for multiproxy analysis and contributes to the reconstruction of environmental conditions in NE Finland directly following deglaciation in the early Holocene.
UGT1A1*6,1A7*3, and 1A9*22 genotypes predict severe neutropenia in FOLFIRI‐treated metastatic colorectal cancer in two prospective studies in Japan
Authors: Hazama Shoichi , Mishima Hideyuki , Tsunedomi Ryouichi , Okuyama Yusuke , Kato Takeshi , Takahashi Ken‐ichi , Nozawa Hiroshi , Ando Hideaki , Kobayashi Michiya , Takemoto Hiroyoshi , Nagata Naoki , Kanekiyo Shinsuke , Inoue Yuka , Hamamoto Yoshihiko , Fujita Yusuke , Hinoda Yuji , Okayama Naoko , Oba Koji , Sakamoto Jun‐ichi , Oka Masaaki
Published: September 2013

Retrospective studies have suggested that UDP‐glucuronosyltransferase (UGT)1A1, UGT1A7, and UGT1A9 predict severe toxicity and efficacy of irinotecan‐containing regimens. We prospectively evaluated the impact of UGT1A genotypes and haplotypes on severe toxicity and efficacy in patients treated with fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan combination chemotherapy (FOLFIRI) for metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC) from the two prospective multicenter phase II studies in Japan. The FLIGHT1 study was a first‐line FOLFIRI trial, and FLIGHT2 was a FOLFOX‐refractory, second‐line FOLFIRI trial. A total of 73 patients agreed to additional analysis, and were genotyped for UGT1A polymorphisms, UGT1A1*28 (TA6>TA7), UGT1A1*6 (211G>A), UGT1A1*27 (686C>A), UGT1A1*60 (−3279T>G), UGT1A1*93 (−3156G>A), UGT1A7 (−57T>G), UGT1A7*3 (387T>G, 622T>C), and UGT1A9*22 (T9>T10). Of 73 patients, 34 developed G3/4 severe hematological toxicities. The toxicities were significantly more frequent in patients with UGT1A1*6 (211A), UGT1A7 (387G), and UGT1A9*22 reference alleles (T9). Haplotype I, which consists of all favorable alleles, was associated with a significant reduction in hematologic toxicity (P = 0.031). In contrast, haplotype II, which contains four high‐risk alleles, showed significantly higher hematologic toxicity than the other haplotypes (P = 0.010). Six out of seven patients who were homozygous for UGT1A1*28 or *6 experienced severe hematological toxicity despite the fact that their response rate was not impaired (42.9%). We concluded that UGT1A polymorphisms, especially UGT1A1*6, are important for the prediction of severe toxicity of FOLFIRI in northeast Asian populations. In this regard, haplotype analyses should substantially impact the prediction of severe hematological toxicities of FOLFIRI. (Clinical Trial Registration: UMIN000002388 and UMIN000002476).
Long‐term improvements in oral communication skills and quality of peer relations in children with cochlear implants: parental testimony
Authors: Bat‐Chava Y. , Martin D. , Imperatore L.
Published: September 2013

Background

Few research studies have examined longitudinal improvements in oral communication skills and quality of peer relationships of children with implants. Moreover, although the emerging literature suggests that improvement in social functioning follows improvement in oral communication, it is still unknown what factors enhance or impede the relations between these constructs.

Methods

Based on parent interviews, the current study examined the long‐term improvements in speech and oral language skills and relationships with hearing peers in 19 implanted children.

Results

Results demonstrate that on average, children continue to improve in oral communication skills and quality of peer relationships even years after implantation, especially those with initial poorer skills. While oral communication ability and quality of peer relationships are strongly associated at each time point, gains in these two variables are associated only for some of the children. Other factors, including self‐confidence and peer acceptance, seem to moderate this relationship. Qualitative data are presented to illustrate these relations among variables and to assist in theory building.

Conclusions

The results highlight the need for more specific examination of various developmental periods in combination with the progress of oral communication and peer relationships among children with implants.
CLIPPERS: chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids. Review of an increasingly recognized entity within the spectrum of inflammatory central nervous system disorders
Authors: Dudesek A , Rimmele F , Tesar S , Kolbaske S , Rommer P S , Benecke R , Zettl U K
Published: September 2013

Chronic lymphocytic inflammation with pontine perivascular enhancement responsive to steroids (CLIPPERS) is a recently defined inflammatory central nervous system (CNS) disorder, prominently involving the brainstem and in particular the pons. The condition features a combination of clinical symptoms essentially referable to brainstem pathology and a characteristic magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) appearance with punctate and curvilinear gadolinium enhancement ‘peppering’ the pons. The radiological distribution is focused in the pons and adjacent rhombencephalic structures such as the cerebellar peduncles, cerebellum, medulla and the midbrain. While the lesion burden with a perivascular pattern is typically most dense in these pontine and peripontine regions, enhancing lesions may additionally extend into the spinal cord and supratentorial structures such as the thalamus, basal ganglia, capsula interna, corpus callosum and the cerebral white matter. Another core feature is clinical and radiological responsiveness to glucocorticosteroid (GCS)-based immunosuppression. As withdrawal of GCS treatment results commonly in disease exacerbation, long-term immunosuppressive therapy appears to be mandatory for sustained improvement. Diagnosis of CLIPPERS is challenging, and requires careful exclusion of alternative diagnoses. A specific serum or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) biomarker for the disorder is currently not known. Pathogenesis of CLIPPERS remains poorly understood, and the nosological position of CLIPPERS has still to be established. Whether CLIPPERS represents an independent, actual new disorder or a syndrome that includes aetiologically heterogeneous diseases and/or their prestages remains a debated and not finally clarified issue. Clinicians and radiologists should be aware of this condition and its differential diagnoses, given that CLIPPERS constitutes a treatable condition and that patients may benefit from an early introduction of GCS ensued by long-term immunosuppression. Based on previous reports in literature – currently encompassing more than 50 reported cases of CLIPPERS – this review addresses clinical features, diagnostic criteria, differential diagnoses and therapeutic management of this peculiar disorder.
How immunosuppressive therapy affects T cells from kidney transplanted patients of different age: the role of latent cytomegalovirus infection
Authors: Welzl K , Weinberger B , Kronbichler A , Sturm G , Kern G , Mayer G , Grubeck-Loebenstein B , Koppelstaetter C
Published: September 2013

The average age of patients receiving renal transplantation is increasing as programmes have been established which support the donation of organs from elderly donors to older recipients. Little is known about the effect of immunosuppressive therapy on the immune system of older patients. In this study, T cell function and the composition of the T cell repertoire were analysed in immunosuppressed renal transplant recipients of different age and cytomegalovirus (CMV) status in comparison to age- and CMV-matched controls. Independent of age and CMV status, the production of interleukin (IL)-2 and interferon (IFN)-γ by T cells was decreased in the patient groups and autologous serum from patients was capable of inhibiting the proliferation of CD3+ T cells. CXCR5 expression on T cells was increased in patients versus controls reflecting reduced endogenous IL-2 signalling under immunosuppressive therapy. In CMV-seronegative patients kidney transplantation and immunosuppressive therapy did not induce changes in the CD8+ T cell pool, but there was a moderate increase in CD4+CD28− effector T cells when compared to age-matched controls. In contrast, latent CMV infection triggered a shift from early to late differentiated CD4+ and CD8+ T cells in patients and controls. This shift was most pronounced in elderly transplant patients under immunosuppressive therapy. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that immunosuppressive therapy following kidney transplantation is effective in patients older than 65 years. Latent CMV infection, however, accelerates age-related changes in the T cell repertoire in elderly people under immunosuppressive therapy. These patients should therefore be monitored with special care.
Participation in Context: Neighborhood Diversity and Organizational Involvement in Boston
Authors: Tran Van C. , Graif Corina , Jones Alison D. , Small Mario L. , Winship Christopher
Published: September 2013

We use unique data from the Boston Non–Profit Organizations Study, an innovative survey containing rich information on organizational participation across seven social domains in two Boston neighborhoods, to examine the relationship between ethnic diversity and participation in local organizations. In particular, we identify neighborhood–based social ties as a key mechanism mediating the initial negative association between diversity and participation. In contrast to previous work, we measure participation using both the domain–based and group–based approach, with the former approach uncovering a wider range of organizational connections that are often missed in the latter approach. We also investigate the relationship between interpersonal ties and organizational ties, documenting how primary involvement with an organization facilitates the development of further interpersonal ties and secondary forms of organizational involvement. We then discuss implications of our findings for urban poverty research.
Sustained improvement of gas exchange and lung mechanics by vaporized perfluorocarbon inhalation in piglet acute lung injury model
Authors: Wang Xiaoguang , Zhang Jianpeng , Li Xiaoling , Liu Youning , Yang Haibo , Zhao Xiaowei , Xie Lixin , Yin Lihua
Published: September 2013

Introduction

New methods for perfluorocarbon (PFC) application have been proposed which include aerosolization and vaporization. However, the experimental documentation of efficacy of vaporization of PFC in the treatment of acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is still lacking.

Objectives

This study aims to examine the effects of vaporized PFC on gas exchange and lung mechanics in a piglet model with ARDS.

Methods

Lung injury was induced in 16 piglets by infusing detergent through tracheal intubation. Eight piglets were treated with vaporized PFC for 2 h followed by 6 h of volume‐controlled ventilation. Another eight piglets receiving 8 h volume‐controlled ventilation were used as controls. Blood gases, lung mechanical and hemodynamic parameters were measured.

Results

Vaporized PFC treatment significantly increased oxygenation index (P/F ratio) and static lung compliance (Cst) 2 h after therapy compared with the control group (P < 0.05). The P/F ratio reached a peak 5.5 h after the therapy and remained at an increased level for at least 6 h compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Additionally, 6 h post treatment, peak inspiratory pressure was significantly reduced in PFC group when compared with the control group (P < 0.05), and Cst was significantly higher in the PFC group than in the control group (P = 0.001).

Conclusions

Inhalation of vaporized PFC results in sustained improvement of pulmonary gas exchange and lung mechanics in a detergent‐induced animal model of lung injury. Therefore, the non‐invasive vaporization application technique would be a reasonable alternative to administer perfluorocarbons in severe lung injury.