bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oxidative phosphorylation gene transcription in whitefish species pairs reveals patterns of parallel and nonparallel physiological divergence
Authors: Evans M. L. , Bernatchez L.
Published: July 2012

Across multiple lakes in North America, lake whitefish (
Coregonus clupeaformis) have independently evolved ‘dwarf’ and ‘normal’ sympatric species pairs that exhibit pronounced phenotypic and genetic divergence. In particular, traits associated with metabolism have been shown to be highly differentiated between whitefish species. Here, we examine the transcription of genes associated with the five mitochondrial and nuclear genome‐encoded oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) complexes, the primary physiological mechanism responsible for the production of ATP, in whitefish species pairs from Cliff Lake and Webster Lake in Maine, USA. We observed OXPHOS gene transcription divergence between dwarf and normal whitefish in each of the two lakes, with the former exhibiting transcription upregulation for genes associated with each of the OXPHOS complexes. We also observed a significant influence of lake on transcription levels for some of the genes, indicating that inter‐lake ecological or genetic differences are contributing to variation in OXPHOS gene transcription levels. Together, our results support the hypothesis that metabolic divergence is a critical adaptation involved in whitefish speciation and implicate OXPHOS gene upregulation as a factor involved in meeting the enhanced energetic demands of dwarf whitefish. Further studies are now needed to evaluate the contribution of genetically vs. plasticity driven variation in transcription associated with this critical physiological pathway.
Testosterone and Partner Compatibility: Evidence and Emerging Questions
Authors: Hirschenhauser Katharina
Published: July 2012

In socially monogamous species pair partners often form and maintain long‐term pair‐bonds. Relationships between pair partners are dynamic and driven by both cooperation and conflicts between the sexes. Successful reproduction depends on behavioural coordination and cooperation, which includes continuing mutual responsiveness between the pair partners, as well as conflicts, for example, over parental investment. Gonadal hormones, such as testosterone, centrally regulate reproduction and are potentially involved in the formation and maintenance of pair‐bonds. In greylag geese (Anser anser), a positive within‐pair testosterone co‐variation (TC) among pair partners has been observed at the seasonal level. Goose pairs with a higherTChave a higher reproductive output and long‐term success than pairs with lowerTC, but it is still not clear whetherTCis cause or consequence. In this article, I (i) summarize the evidence for hormonal partner compatibility in geese, (ii) ask whetherTCis restricted to monogamous and biparental systems and (iii) synthesize open questions or new aspects of information we may draw by studying hormonal partner compatibility. From longitudinal studies in geese, we know thatTCdecreases with pair‐bond duration. This indicates some form of ‘attritional effect’ over the years rather than an improved breeding performance with increasing familiarity between the partners (the ‘mate familiarity hypothesis’). Under certain circumstances, for example, during ageing, selection may not act in the same direction for males and females. Partner preference increased female androgen levels during laying and social instability may impinge on the pair'sTC. Data from other species show thatTCis not restricted to monogamous species, but presumably the link betweenTCand reproductive output may be primarily relevant in species with biparental care. This article surveys the major unanswered questions relating to hormonal partner compatibility and previews potential future work for addressing those open issues.
Exploiting Multimedia in Reproductive Science Education: Research Findings
Authors: Senger PL , Oki AC , Trevisan MS , McLean DJ
Published: July 2012

Contents

Education in reproductive science is operating from an outdated paradigm of teaching and learning. Traditionally, reproductive education follows the pattern where students read a textbook, listen to instructor presentations, re‐read the textbook and class notes and then complete a test. This paradigm is inefficient, costly and has not incorporated the potential that technology can offer with respect to increases in student learning. Further, teachers of reproductive science (and all of science for that matter) have little training in the use of documented methods of instructional design and cognitive psychology. Thus, most of us have learned to teach by repeating the approaches our mentors used (both good and bad). The technology now exists to explain complex topics using multimedia presentations in which digital animation and three‐dimensional anatomical reconstructions greatly reduce time required for delivery while at the same time improving student understanding. With funding from the Small Business Innovation Research program through the U.S. Department of Education, we have developed and tested a multimedia approach to teaching complex concepts in reproductive physiology. The results of five separate experiments involving 1058 university students and 122 patients in an OB/GYN clinic indicate that students and patients learned as much or more in less time when viewing the multimedia presentations when compared to traditional teaching methodologies.
Ethics, Politics and Protests: Using Contentious Issues in Reproductive Sciences as Educational Opportunities
Authors: Knight JW
Published: July 2012

Contents

Contentious issues and polarized viewpoints can be utilized in the classroom and beyond to create a reflective dialogue among students and citizens. This dialogue leads to both a greater understanding, as well as an enhanced appreciation of alternative viewpoints. Exploring and discussing the scientific, ethical, moral, political, legal and societal aspects of contentious issues of human reproduction provides ideal subject matter for developing critical thinking skills in the field of reproductive science.
Twenty Years of Embryonic Stem Cell Research in Farm Animals
Authors: Blomberg LA , Telugu BPVL
Published: July 2012

Contents

Notable distinctions between an embryonic stem cell (ESC) and somatic cell are that an ESC can maintain an undifferentiated state indefinitely, self‐renew, and is pluripotent, meaning that the ESC can potentially generate cells representing all the three primordial germ layers and contribute to the terminally differentiated cells of a conceptus. These attributes make the ESC an ideal source for genome editing for both agricultural and biomedical applications. Although, ESC lines have been successfully established from rodents and primates, authentic ungulate stem cell lines on the contrary are still not available. Outstanding issues including but not limited to differences in pluripotency characteristics among the existing ESC lines, pre‐implantation embryo development, pluripotency pathways, and culture conditions plague our efforts to establish authentic ESC lines from farm animals. In this review, we highlight some of these issues and discuss how the recent derivation of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) might augur the establishment of robust authentic ESC lines from farm animals.
Pluripotency Network in Porcine Embryos and Derived Cell Lines
Authors: Brevini TAL , Pennarossa G , Maffei S , Gandolfi F
Published: July 2012

Contents

Huge amounts of work have been dedicated to the establishment of embryonic stem cell lines from farm animal species since the successful isolation of embryonic stem cells from the mouse and from the human. However, no conclusive results have been obtained so far, and validated lines have yet to be established in domestic animals. Many limiting factors have been suggested and need to be studied further to isolate truly pluripotent cell lines from livestock. In this review, we will discuss the difficulties in deriving and maintaining embryonic stem cell lines from farm animal embryos and how can this lack of success be explained. We will summarize results obtained in our laboratory regarding derivation of pluripotent cells in the pigs. Problems related to the identification of standard methods for derivation, maintenance and characterization of cell lines will also be examined. We will focus our attention on the need for appropriate stemness‐related marker molecules that can be used to reliably investigate pluripotency in domestic species. Finally, we will review data presently available on functional key pluripotency‐maintaining pathways in farm animals.
Advancing Pig Cloning Technologies Towards Application in Regenerative Medicine
Authors: Nagashima H , Matsunari H , Nakano K , Watanabe M , Umeyama K , Nagaya M
Published: July 2012

Contents

Regenerative medicine is expected to make a significant contribution by development of novel therapeutic treatments for intractable diseases and for improving the quality of life of patients. Many advances in regenerative medicine, including basic and translational research, have been developed and tested in experimental animals; pigs have played an important role in various aspects of this work. The value of pigs as a model species is being enhanced by the generation of specially designed animals through cloning and genetic modifications, enabling more sophisticated research to be performed and thus accelerating the clinical application of regenerative medicine. This article reviews the significant aspects of the creation and application of cloned and genetically modified pigs in regenerative medicine research and considers the possible future directions of the technology. We also discuss the importance of reproductive biology as an interface between basic science and clinical medicine.
The Role of Progesterone in Oocyte Acquisition of Developmental Competence
Authors: Fair T , Lonergan P
Published: July 2012

Contents

It is generally accepted that progesterone (P4) is a key regulator of reproductive function in mammals. In cattle, the primary focus of P4’s actions has been uterine receptivity and maintenance of pregnancy. Studies in mammalian laboratory species and ovarian derived cell lines also highlight their role in ovarian function. Extensive research in non‐mammalian species has elucidated a critical role for P4 and both its nuclear and membrane‐bound receptors in oocyte maturation and ovulation. Until recently, such a role in mammalian oocytes has been disputed. However, as oestrous synchronization regimes are constantly tweaked and revised to maximize pregnancy rates to artificial insemination in cattle, the importance of P4 priming of the dominant ingfollicle is once again tak centre stage. Sequencing of the bovine genome and the development of multiple transcriptomic data mining tools have facilitated an explosion in global transcriptome profiling of immature and matured oocytes and their surrounding cumulus cells. Many of the differentially regulated genes and their associated preferentially populated pathways appear to be P4 regulated in other tissues. Therefore, attention is once again turning to a potential role for P4 in ovulatory follicle development and oocyte maturation in cattle. The current review summarizes the most recent findings in these areas.
What Sperm Can Teach us About Energy Production
Authors: Mukai C , Travis AJ
Published: July 2012

Contents

Mammalian sperm have evolved under strict selection pressures that have resulted in a highly polarized and efficient design. A critical component of that design is the compartmentalization of specific metabolic pathways to specific regions of the cell. Although the restricted localization of mitochondria to the midpiece is the best known example of this design, the organization of the enzymes of glycolysis along the fibrous sheath is the primary focus of this review. Evolution of variants of these metabolic enzymes has allowed them to function when tethered, enabling localized energy production that is essential for sperm motility. We close by exploring how this design might be mimicked to provide an energy‐producing platform technology for applications in nanobiotechnology.
Directional Freezing of Reproductive Cells and Organs
Authors: Arav A , Natan D
Published: July 2012

Contents

Directional freezing is based on a simple thermodynamic principle where ice crystals are precisely controlled through the sample by regulating the velocity of the sample movement through the predetermined temperature gradient. Directional freezing permits a precise and uniform cooling rate in both small and large volume samples. Directional freezing was used for slow and rapid freezing, as well as for vitrification of oocytes and embryos using the minimum drop size technique. Sperm samples from a wide range of domestic and wild animals were successfully cryopreserved using the directional freezing method. The method enabled, for the first time, successful freezing of a whole ovary and freeze‐drying of mammalian cells followed by thawing and transplantation and rehydration, respectively.
Controlled Stress Improves Oocyte Performance – Cell Preconditioning in Assisted Reproduction
Authors: Pribenszky C , Lin L , Du Y , Losonczi E , Dinnyes A , Vajta G
Published: July 2012

Contents

A recently emerged concept utilizing a controlled environmental impact as a treatment for cells and tissues aims to improve neither the in vitro conditions nor the procedures, but the cell itself. Hydrostatic pressure stress emerged as the most controllable and most effective stressor, proving the principle that controlled stress improves cell performance in in vitro procedures, whereas further studies using different stressors (osmotic, oxidative or mechanic stresses) supported the principle. The present summary reviews studies of various stress treatments to treat oocytes of three species (murine, porcine, human) before vitrification, in vitro maturation, enucleation and somatic cell nuclear transfer. Eventually, cleavage and blastocyst rates and – in cases when hydrostatic pressure was used – blastocyst cell number and birth rates as well were significantly improved compared to untreated controls.
Progress in Development of Immunocontraceptive Vaccines for Permanent Non‐surgical Sterilization of Cats and Dogs
Authors: Munks MW
Published: July 2012

Contents

Each year, millions of cats and dogs are euthanized worldwide. There are insufficient resources to control shelter animals in developed countries, as well as feral cat and wild dog population levels, with current surgical sterilization techniques. Thus, population control of these animals will likely depend on the development of new non‐surgical methods for cat and dog sterilization. One promising area of research is the development of contraceptive vaccines, or immunocontraceptives. In this article, previous approaches aimed at developing contraceptive vaccines will be reviewed, with a focus on those most related to sterilization of cats and dogs. There are a number of steps in reproduction that have been, or could be, targeted by the immune system, and the advantages and obstacles for inducing immunity to each of these will be discussed. Our current understanding of how these vaccines cause sterility, and our current ability to dissect these mechanisms in cats and dogs, also will be discussed.
Targeted Gene Silencing to Induce Permanent Sterility
Authors: Dissen GA , Lomniczi A , Boudreau RL , Chen YH , Davidson BL , Ojeda SR
Published: July 2012

Contents

A non‐surgical method to induce sterility would be a useful tool to control feral populations of animals. Our laboratories have experience with approaches aimed at targeting brain cells in vivo with vehicles that deliver a payload of either inhibitory RNAs or genes intended to correct cellular dysfunction. A combination/modification of these methods may provide a useful framework for the design of approaches that can be used to sterilize cats and dogs. For this approach to succeed, it has to meet several conditions: it needs to target a gene essential for fertility. It must involve a method that can selectively silence the gene of interest. It also needs to deliver the silencing agent via a minimally invasive method. Finally, the silencing effect needs to be sustained for many years, so that expansion of the targeted population can be effectively prevented. In this article, we discuss this subject and provide a succinct account of our previous experience with: (i) molecular reagents able to disrupt reproductive cyclicity when delivered to regions of the brain involved in the control of reproduction and (ii) molecular reagents able to ameliorate neuronal disease when delivered systemically using a novel approach of gene therapy.
Genetic Selection and Conservation of Genetic Diversity*
Authors: Blackburn HD
Published: July 2012

Contents

For 100s of years, livestock producers have employed various types of selection to alter livestock populations. Current selection strategies are little different, except our technologies for selection have become more powerful. Genetic resources at the breed level have been in and out of favour over time. These resources are the raw materials used to manipulate populations, and therefore, they are critical to the past and future success of the livestock sector. With increasing ability to rapidly change genetic composition of livestock populations, the conservation of these genetic resources becomes more critical. Globally, awareness of the need to steward genetic resources has increased. A growing number of countries have embarked on large scale conservation efforts by usingin situ,ex situ(gene banking), or both approaches. Gene banking efforts have substantially increased and data suggest that gene banks are successfully capturing genetic diversity for research or industry use. It is also noteworthy that both industry and the research community are utilizing gene bank holdings. As pressures grow to meet consumer demands and potential changes in production systems, the linkage between selection goals and genetic conservation will increase as a mechanism to facilitate continued livestock sector development.
How Developments in Cryobiology, Reproductive Technologies and Conservation Genomics Could Shape Gene Banking Strategies for (Farm) Animals
Authors: Woelders H , Windig J , Hiemstra SJ
Published: July 2012

Contents

Many local breeds are currently at risk because of replacement by a limited number of specialized commercial breeds. Concurrently, for many breeds, allelic diversity within breeds declines because of inbreeding. Gene banking of germplasm may serve to secure the breeds and the alleles for any future use, for instance to recover a lost breed, to address new breeding goals, to support breeding schemes in small populations to minimize inbreeding, and for conservation genetics and genomics research. Developments in cryobiology and reproductive technology have generated several possibilities for preserving germplasm in farm animals. Furthermore, in some mammalian and bird species, gene banking of material is difficult or impossible, requiring development of new alternative methods or improvement of existing methods. Depending on the species, there are interesting possibilities or research developments in the use of epididymal spermatozoa, oocytes and embryos, ovarian and testicular tissue, primordial germ cells, and somatic cells for the conservation of genetic diversity in farm‐ and other animal species. Rapid developments in genomics research also provide new opportunities to optimize conservation and sampling strategies and to characterize genome‐wide genetic variation. With regard to gene banks for farm animals, collaboration between European countries is being developed through a number of organizations, aimed at sharing knowledge and expertise between national programmes. It would be useful to explore further collaboration between countries, within the framework of a European gene banking strategy that should minimize costs of conservation and maximize opportunities for exploitation and sustainable use of genetic diversity.
Life or Death Decisions in the Corpus Luteum
Authors: Pate JL , Johnson‐Larson CJ , Ottobre JS
Published: July 2012

Contents

The corpus luteum (CL) is an ephemeral endocrine organ. During its lifespan, it undergoes a period of extremely rapid growth that involves hypertrophy, proliferation and differentiation of the steroidogenic cells, as well as extensive angiogenesis. The growth phase is followed by a period in which remodelling of the tissue ceases, but it engages in unparalleled production of steroids, resulting in extraordinarily high metabolic activity within the tissue. It is during this stage that a critical juncture occurs. In the non‐fertile cycle, uterine release of prostaglandin (PG)F2α initiates a cascade of events that result in rapid loss of steroidogenesis and destruction of the luteal tissue. Alternatively, if a viable embryo is present, signals are produced that result in rescue of the CL. This review article summarizes the major concepts related to the fate of the CL, with particular focus on recent insights into the mechanisms associated with the ability of PGF2α to bring about complete luteolysis. It has become clear that the achievement of luteolysis depends on repeated exposure to PGF2α and involves coordinated actions of heterogeneous cell types within the CL. Together, these components of the process bring about not only the loss in progesterone production, but also the rapid demise of the structure itself.
Reproduction in Farm Animals in an Era of Rapid Genetic Change: Will Genetic Change Outpace Our Knowledge of Physiology?
Authors: Foxcroft GR
Published: July 2012

Contents

Compared with other domestic species, genetic nucleus selection has gradually increased both prolificacy and productivity of the breeding sow and the post‐natal growth performance of commercial progeny. However, increasing variation in litter birth weight and foetal development may be indirect consequences of interactions among multiple genes controlling prolificacy and prenatal development. Phenotypic plasticity in the litter phenotype also results from effects of sow metabolic state on the developing embryo. New genomic tools may provide the opportunity to better balance the selection of genes controlling the component traits affecting the size and quality of litters born, particularly in multiparous sows.
Environmental Pollutants and Diseases of Sexual Development in Humans and Wildlife in South Africa: Harbingers of Impact on Overall Health?
Authors: (Riana) Bornman MS , Bouwman Hindrik
Published: July 2012

Contents

This study deals with disorders of sexual development in humans, wildlife and animals in an urban nature reserve (RNR) and a currently DDT‐sprayed malarial area. High levels of oestrogenic chemical residues in water, sediment and tissue; skewed sex ratios; reduced biodiversity; gonadal malformations in sharptooth catfish and freshwater snails; intersex in catfish; and impaired spermatogenesis in catfish and striped mouse are of serious concern in the RNR. Persistent eggshell thinning in African darter eggs, intersex in male Mozambican tilapia, follicular atresia in females and impaired spermatogenesis in males following laboratory exposure of parent fish to environmentally relevant DDT and DDE concentrations, and abnormalities in freshwater snails were found in the DDT‐sprayed area. Human studies related to DDT exposure indicated impaired semen quality, a weak association with sperm chromatin defects and higher risks for external urogenital birth defects in those who were born to mothers whose houses were sprayed and those who were homemakers (stay at home mother) instead of being employed. These findings indicate that diseases of sexual development occurred in both human and wildlife populations exposed to environmental endocrine disruptor chemicals in South Africa. The chemical mixtures, possibly related to disorders of sexual differentiation (DSD), were very different between the two. However, DSD occurred concurrently in the malarial area, possibly indicating that humans and wildlife shared exposures. Moreover, it emphasizes the importance of suspecting disease in the other when disease is found in either human or wildlife populations.
Epigenetic Mechanisms in the Actions of Endocrine‐disrupting Chemicals: Gonadal Effects and Role in Female Reproduction
Authors: Uzumcu M , Zama AM , Oruc E
Published: July 2012

Contents

There is a heightened interest and concern among scientists, clinicians and regulatory agencies as well as the general public, regarding the effects of environmental endocrine‐disrupting chemicals (EDCs). In this review, we identify the main epigenetic mechanisms and describe key ovarian processes that are vulnerable to the epigenetic actions of EDCs. We also provide an overview of the human epidemiological evidence documenting the detrimental effects of several common environmental EDCs on female reproduction. We then focus on experimental evidence demonstrating the epigenetic effects of these EDCs in the ovary and female reproductive system, with an emphasis on methoxychlor, an organochlorine pesticide. We conclude the review by describing several critical issues in studying epigenetic effects of EDCs in the ovary, including transgenerational epigenetic effects.
An Overview of Molecular and Cellular Mechanisms Associated with Porcine Pregnancy Success or Failure
Authors: Edwards AK , Wessels JM , Kerr A , Tayade C
Published: July 2012

Contents

Prenatal mortality remains one of the major constraints for the commercial pig industry in North America. Twenty to thirty per cent of the conceptuses are lost early in gestation and an additional 10–15% is lost by mid‐to‐late gestation. Research over the last two decades has provided critical insights into how uterine capacity, placental efficiency, genetics, environment, nutrition and immune mechanisms impact successful conceptus growth; however, the exact cause and effect relationship in the context of foetal loss has yet to be determined. Similar to other mammalian species such as the human, mouse, rat, and primates, immune cell enrichment occurs at the porcine maternal–foetal interface during the window of conceptus attachment. However, unlike other species, immune cells are solely recruited by conceptus‐derived signals. As pigs have epitheliochorial placentae where maternal and foetal tissue layers are separate, it provides an ideal model to study immune cell interactions with foetal trophoblasts. Our research is focused on the immune‐angiogenesis axis during porcine pregnancy. It is well established that immune cells are recruited to the maternal–foetal interface, but their pregnancy specific functions and how the local milieu affects angiogenesis and inflammation at the site of foetal arrest remain unknown. Through a better understanding of how immune cells modulate crosstalk between the conceptus and the mother, it might be possible to therapeutically target immune cells and/or their products to reduce foetal loss. In this review, we provide evidence from the literature and from our own work into the immunological factors associated with porcine foetal loss.
Measuring what matters in delivering services to remote‐dwelling Indigenous mothers and infants in the Northern Territory, Australia
Authors: Steenkamp Malinda , Rumbold Alice R. , Kildea Sue , Bar‐Zeev Sarah J. , Kruske Sue , Dunbar Terry , Barclay Lesley
Published: July 2012

Problem:  In the Northern Territory, 64% of Indigenous births are to remote‐dwelling mothers. Delivering high‐quality health care in remote areas is challenging, but service improvements, informed by participative action research, are under way. Evaluation of these initiatives requires appropriate indicators. Few of the many existing maternal and infant health indicators are specifically framed for the remote context or exemplify an Indigenous consumer perspective. We aimed to identify an indicator framework with appropriate indicators to demonstrate improvements in health outcomes, determinants of health and health system performance for remote‐dwelling mothers and infants from pregnancy to first birthday.

Design:  We reviewed existing indicators; invited input from experts; investigated existing administrative data collections and examined findings from a record audit, ethnographic work and the evaluation of the Darwin Midwifery Group Practice.

Setting:  Northern Territory.

Process:  About 660 potentially relevant indicators were identified. We adapted the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Performance Framework and populated the resulting framework with chosen indicators. We chose the indicators best able to monitor the impact of changes to remote service delivery by eliminating duplicated or irrelevant indicators using expert opinion, triangulating data and identifying key issues for remote maternal and infant health service improvements.

Lessons learnt:  We propose 31 indicators to monitor service delivery to remote‐dwelling Indigenous mothers and infants. Our inclusive indicator framework covers the period from pregnancy to the first year of life and includes existing indicators, but also introduces novel ones. We also attempt to highlight an Indigenous consumer.
Experience of overseas‐trained health professionals in rural and remote areas of destination countries: A literature review
Authors: Dywili Sophia , Bonner Ann , Anderson Judith , O' Brien Louise
Published: July 2012

This study aimed to review and synthesise existing literature that investigated the experience of overseas‐trained health professionals (OTHPs) in rural and remote areas of destination countries. A systematic literature review was conducted using electronic databases and manual search of studies published from January 2004 to February 2011. Data were analysed from the final 17 original report articles that met the inclusion criteria. The reviewed research studies were conducted in Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK and the USA. Overseas‐trained medical practitioners were the most frequently researched (n = 14); two studies involved nurses and one study included several health professionals. Three main themes emerged from the review and these were: (i) expectations; (ii) cultural diversity; and (iii) orientation and integration to rural and remote health work environment. The OTHPs were expected to possess the appropriate professional and cultural skills while they themselves expected recognition of their previous experiences and adequate organisational orientation and support. A welcoming and accepting community coupled with a relaxed rural lifestyle and the joy of continued patient care resulted in successful integration and contributed to increased staff retention rates. Recognition of expectations and cultural diversity by all parties and comprehensive orientation with sufficient organisational support are important elements in the integration of OTHPs and subsequent delivery of quality health care to people living in rural and remote areas.
‘We don't have anyone with dementia here’: A case for better intersectoral collaboration for remote Indigenous clients with dementia
Authors: Lindeman Melissa A. , Taylor Kerry A. , Kuipers Pim , Stothers Kylie , Piper Karen
Published: July 2012

Objective:  This paper reports on findings related to intersectoral collaboration stemming from an evaluation of a dementia awareness resource for use in remote Aboriginal communities*. The resource includes a DVD in English and three (3) Aboriginal languages of the Northern Territory.

Design:  A qualitative evaluation was conducted in four Northern Territory Aboriginal communities/organisations where the resource had been implemented by external dementia educators. The method included five focus groups with Indigenous aged care workers, community members and aged care service users (n = 26), individual interviews with health care professionals and service coordinators (n = 5), and observation. Data were analysed thematically.

Results:  Specific findings relating to intersectoral collaboration as a key enabling factor of effective dementia awareness and care are discussed in this paper. In addition to context variables such as understaffing and under‐resourcing, there might be a lack of knowledge or interest on the part of some health practitioners concerning clients with dementia within remote communities.

Conclusion:  Dementia awareness in remote communities needs to be tackled from a ‘whole system’ perspective and not be the exclusive domain of the aged care services. Strategies that increase the critical mass of informed caregivers as well as health professionals will contribute to better services.
Theory in rural health
Authors: Farmer Jane , Munoz Sarah‐Anne , Threlkeld Guinever
Published: July 2012

Objective:  This paper offers theories to explain persistent rural health challenges and describes their application to rural health and research.

Methods:  Review of theories from several disciplines.

Findings:  Key issues in rural health are poorer health status and access to health care, staff shortages, relationship‐based health provision and the role of health services in community sustainability. These could be fruitfully addressed by applying theory and findings around social determinants of health, economic sociology, the role of culture and capitals approaches to measuring assets. In particular, the concept of rural health might be a barrier to progressing knowledge; and relational approaches, common in geography, offer a more useful conceptual framework for studying health and place.

Conclusions:  To move beyond its current stage, rural health needs to look to other disciplines' theories and ideas; particularly, it needs a more contemporary understanding of what place means so that health status and service provision can be improved by more thoughtful research.
Prevalence of hypertension and pre‐hypertension in rural women: A report from the villages of West Bengal, a state in the eastern part of India
Authors: Dutta Anindita , Ray Manas Ranjan
Published: July 2012

Objective:  To find out the prevalence of hypertension, pre‐hypertension and tachycardia among the women in rural areas of West Bengal, identify co‐factors associated with the prevalence and contribute to the body of evidence for future health programs to identify at‐risk groups.

Design:  A population‐based cross‐sectional study was conducted.

Setting:  The study was conducted in remote villages.

Participants:  1186 women participants, aged 18 years or more were included.

Main outcome measures:  They were interviewed using standard structured questionnaire. Blood pressure and tachycardia was monitored using digital sphygmomanometer. For each participant, we made two blood pressure measurements with an interval of 48 hours. Data was analysed statistically using SPSS software.

Results:  Overall prevalence of hypertension in the study subjects was 24.7% and that of pre‐hypertension and tachycardia was 40.8% and 6.4%, respectively. Both hypertension and pre‐hypertension were seen to increase with age. Other identified significant factors were use of biomass fuel for cooking, absence of separate kitchen, higher body mass index (BMI), education and average family income.

Conclusion:  This study suggests quite high prevalence of hypertension as well as pre‐hypertension among the women of rural areas. The findings are significant from the women health perspectives. Early detection of pre‐hypertensive and hypertensive subjects will help to formulate intervention strategies to allay the spread of cardiovascular diseases.
Effects of fatty acids on cardioprotection by pre‐ischaemic inhibition of the malate–aspartate shuttle
Authors: Dalgas Christian , Povlsen Jonas Agerlund , Løfgren Bo , Erichsen Sune Brinck , Bøtker Hans Erik
Published: July 2012

The malate–aspartate shuttle (MAS) is the main pathway for balancing extra‐ and intramitochondrial glucose metabolism. Pre‐ischaemic shutdown of the MAS by aminooxyacetate (AOA) mimics ischaemic preconditioning (IPC) in rat glucose‐perfused hearts. The aim of the present study was to determine the effects of fatty acids (FA) on cardioprotection by pre‐ischaemic inhibition of the MAS.

Isolated rat hearts were divided into four groups (control; pre‐ischaemic AOA (0.2 mmol/L); IPC; and AOA + IPC) and were perfused with 11 mmol/L glucose, 3% bovine serum albumin plus 0, 0.4 or 1.2 mmol/L FA. The perfusion protocol included 30 min global no‐flow ischaemia and 120 min reperfusion. Infarct size (IS), haemodynamic recovery, glucose oxidation and lactate release were evaluated in all four groups.

Pre‐ischaemic AOA reduced the IS of the left ventricle in hearts perfused with 0, 0.4 and 1.2 mmol/L FA compared with that in control hearts (26 ± 2% vs 53 ± 4%, 29 ± 3% vs 53 ± 4% and 61 ± 4% vs 81 ± 3%, respectively; P < 0.01 for all). After 2 h reperfusion, AOA improved haemodynamic recovery in the absence (52 ± 2 vs 27 ± 3 mmHg in the AOA and control groups, respectively; P < 0.001) but not in the presence, of FA. Both IPC and AOA + IPC reduced IS and improved haemodynamic recovery regardless of FA levels. Postischaemic glucose oxidation was suppressed by FA and did not differ significantly between the different groups.

In conclusion, the reduction in IS induced by pre‐ischaemic MAS shutdown is not compromised by physiological FA concentrations. Transient MAS shutdown may be involved in IPC, but is not sufficient on its own as the underlying mechanism for IPC.
Comparison of HER2 immunohistochemical results using a monoclonal antibody (SV2‐61γ) and a polyclonal antibody (for Dako HercepTest) in advanced gastric cancer
Authors: Tamura Gen , Osakabe Mitsumasa , Yanagawa Naoki , Ogata Shin‐ya , Nomura Takashi , Fukushima Norimasa , Ito Yoshimasa , Tabuchi Minori
Published: July 2012

We compared a monoclonal antibody (SV2‐61γ) and a polyclonal antibody (Dako HercepTest) in immunohistochemical assessments of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) expression in 73 samples of advanced gastric cancer. Results were scored as 0 to 3+, and equivocal or discordant (SV2‐61γ/Dako HercepTest = 0/2+, 0/3+, 1+/3+ or 2+/3+) cases were subjected to fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) analysis. The frequencies of HER2 scores of 2+ or 3+ were 15.1% (11/73) using SV2‐61γ and 38.4% (28/73) using Dako HercepTest. All of the equivocal or discordant cases with a HER2 score of 3+ using Dako HercepTest exhibited amplification of the HER2 gene regardless of the HER2 score determined with SV2‐61γ. The results of the HER2 tests differed according to the antibodies used for immunohistochemistry that preceded FISH analysis, being 15.1% (11/73) using SV2‐61γ and 23.3% (17/73) using Dako HercepTest. Thus, therapeutic decisions might be markedly influenced by the selection of antibody used in the HER2 test.
The working practices and clinical experiences of paediatric speech and language therapists: a national UK survey
Authors: Pring Tim , Flood Emma , Dodd Barbara , Joffe Victoria
Published: July 2012

Background: The majority of speech and language therapists (SLTs) work with children who have speech, language and communication needs. There is limited information about their working practices and clinical experience and their views of how changes to healthcare may impact upon their practice.

Aims: To investigate the working practices and professional experiences of paediatric SLTs working in the UK through an online survey.

Methods & Procedures: The survey was conducted online using Survey Monkey. Therapists were alerted to the survey through the Bulletin of the Royal College of Speech and Language Therapists and by e‐mails to national special interest groups.

Outcomes & Results: A total of 516 clinicians completed the survey. A large majority worked in the National Health Service (NHS). A varied pattern of working was revealed. Most worked in several settings and saw a range of clients. A typical clinician spends less than one‐quarter of their time giving direct therapy and more than one‐quarter training parents and other professionals. Nearly half of respondents felt that their time could be better used. Too little time for direct therapy and the time required for administration emerged as their principal concerns. Most clinicians have specialist knowledge of particular client groups and spend more time with them than do non‐specialists. Nevertheless, clients are more likely to be treated by a therapist who does not claim to have specialist knowledge of their condition than by one who does. The only clients for whom this is not the case are those with dysphagia. Eighty per cent of respondents felt that proposed changes to the NHS would not benefit the children they treat and there was widespread concern about cuts and the effects of general practitioner commissioning. Despite this, a large majority expected to remain speech and language therapists 5 years from now.

Conclusions & Implications
: This survey provides an overview of the working practices of paediatric speech and language therapists. Its findings have significant implications for training and workforce development in the profession.
Adherence to a low‐fat vs. low‐carbohydrate diet differs by insulin resistance status
Authors: McClain A. D. , Otten J. J. , Hekler E. B. , Gardner C. D.
Published: July 2012

Previous research shows diminished weight loss success in insulin‐resistant (IR) women assigned to a low‐fat (LF) diet compared to those assigned to a low‐carbohydrate (LC) diet. These secondary analyses examined the relationship between insulin‐resistance status and dietary adherence to either a LF‐diet or LC‐diet among 81 free‐living, overweight/obese women [age = 41.9 ± 5.7 years; body mass index (BMI) = 32.6 ± 3.6 kg/m2]. This study found differential adherence by insulin‐resistance status only to a LF‐diet, not a LC‐diet. IR participants were less likely to adhere and lose weight on a LF‐diet compared to insulin‐sensitive (IS) participants assigned to the same diet. There were no significant differences between IR and IS participants assigned to LC‐diet in relative adherence or weight loss. These results suggest that insulin resistance status may affect dietary adherence to weight loss diets, resulting in higher recidivism and diminished weight loss success of IR participants advised to follow LF‐diets for weight loss.
Morphology of the female reproductive organs of the African lion (Panthera leo)
Authors: Hartman Marthinus J. , Groenewald Hermanus B. , Kirberger Robert M.
Published: July 2012

The topography and splanchnology of the reproductive organs of the African lioness were studied and described in situ and after removal. The kidneys were located far caudally in relation to the thirteenth ribs. The suspensory ligament was very well developed, originated in a fan‐like manner from the dorsolateral abdominal wall lateral to the kidney and extended up to a few centimetres cranial to the kidney. The proper ligament of the ovary as well as the round ligament was well developed. The round ligament inserted on the medial femoral fascia. The left ovary was bigger than the right. The ovarian bursa had a short mesosalpinx that did not cover any part of the ovary and the fimbriae extended along the entire length. The urethral tuberculum as well as the urethral crest were well developed. The left uterine horn was longer than the right. The uterine tube was found to open directly into the tip of the uterine horn and not onto a papilla. The reproductive organs of the lioness resembled those of the domestic cat and dog but with some major differences.
SOLIDARITY, CHILDREN AND RESEARCH
Authors: LYONS BARRY
Published: July 2012

While research on children is supported by many professional guidelines, international declarations and domestic legislation, when it is undertaken on children with no possibility of direct benefit it rests on shaky moral foundations. A number of authors have suggested that research enrolment is in the child's best interests, or that they have a moral duty or societal obligation to participate. However, these arguments are unpersuasive. Rather, I will propose in this paper that research participation by children seems most reasonable when considered as an act of solidarity; a form of identification with, and provision of practical assistance to, those who are less well off. This is an articulation of the view that many children, and their parents, seem to take seriously the suffering of others, and wish to assist in advancing other children's wellbeing. Perhaps, by fostering an environment in which children are encouraged to take solidarity seriously, participation in research which holds out substantial hope of benefit to those less well off would come to be perceived as a behavioural norm rather than an exceptional practice.
Presidentialisation in the Executive Sphere? Evidence from Norwegian Cabinets
Authors: Kolltveit Kristoffer
Published: July 2012

Empowerment of state leaders has been apparent over the last decades in various parliamentary democracies. Signs of this development, often labelled ‘presidentialisation’, have been reported in the executive sphere also in Sweden and Denmark in recent years. Few accounts have been made of developments in Norway. This article studies Norwegian cabinets for the last 25 years in light of the so‐called ‘presidentalisation thesis’. The article finds no clear tendency of prime ministers appointing more weak and controllable ministers, or more frequently making reshuffles in cabinet, as one would expect from the presidentialisation thesis. However, the Prime Minister's Office has been clearly strengthened, suggesting that the prime ministers' ability to coordinate cabinet policy has increased.
Voluntary Organizations as New Street‐level Bureaucrats: Frontline Struggles of Community Organizations against Bureaucratization in a South Korean Welfare‐to‐Work Partnership
Authors: Kim Suyoung
Published: July 2012

In recent years, the role of voluntary organizations in welfare partnership has received considerable critical attention from scholars working in the field. While mainstream debates have valued state–voluntary sector partnership as participatory governance, critical studies have argued that it leads voluntary organizations to serve as a shadow state. The present study, however, contends that partnership does not necessarily entail participatory welfare or the complete subordination of the voluntary sector to the state's bureaucratic system. Rather, as new street‐level bureaucrats, voluntary organizations can exercise a degree of autonomy on the frontline despite the bureaucratic constraints engendered by partnership. Through an ethnographic analysis of Korean community organizations engaged as frontline agencies in a welfare‐to‐work partnership, this study unveils how the former have recreated democratic and inclusive environments in a particular policy setting by organizing non‐work activities and transferring administrative authority to recipients. Delineating such street‐level practices, this article demonstrates that state–voluntary sector partnerships may be sites of struggle where voluntary organizations continuously strive to actualize participatory governance in diverse and indirect ways.
Investigating the impact of excess zeros on hurdle‐generalized Poisson regression model with right censored count data
Authors: Saffari Seyed Ehsan , Adnan Robiah , Greene William
Published: July 2012

Typically, a Poisson model is assumed for count data. In many cases, there are many zeros in the dependent variable, thus the mean is not equal to the variance value of the dependent variable. Therefore, Poisson model is not suitable anymore for this kind of data because of too many zeros. Thus, we suggest using a hurdle‐generalized Poisson regression model. Furthermore, the response variable in such cases is censored for some values because of some big values. A censored hurdle‐generalized Poisson regression model is introduced on count data with many zeros in this paper. The estimation of regression parameters using the maximum likelihood method is discussed and the goodness‐of‐fit for the regression model is examined. An example and a simulation will be used to illustrate the effects of right censoring on the parameter estimation and their standard errors.