bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of hunter access and habitat security on elk habitat selection in landscapes with a public and private land matrix
Authors: Proffitt Kelly M. , Gude Justin A. , Hamlin Kenneth L. , Messer Matthew Adam
Published: January 2013

Traditional elk habitat management on public land has focused on providing security habitat for bull elk during the hunting season to provide for both adequate hunter opportunity and bull survival. This paradigm has given less consideration to adult female elk habitat use, patterns of adjacent land ownership, and hunter access. This paradigm also was developed when elk population sizes were much smaller in many areas. In many Rocky Mountain states, the focus of elk population management has recently shifted to reducing or maintaining elk population sizes, necessitating a better understanding of the implications of security habitat management, as well as patterns of adjacent land ownership and hunter access, on adult female elk. We addressed this need by testing the hypotheses that during the hunting season: 1) adult female elk selection for areas prohibiting or limiting hunter access is stronger than elk selection for publicly owned and managed elk security habitat, 2) these effects occur during the archery hunting period and intensify during the rifle hunting period, and 3) the effects of hunter access on selection are consistent among herds that occupy landscapes characterized by a matrix of public and private lands. We used global position system locations collected from 82 females in 2 different Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem (GYE) elk herds to evaluate effects of hunter access, security habitat as defined by the Hillis paradigm, and other landscape attributes on adult female elk resource selection during the pre‐hunting, archery, rifle, and post‐hunting periods. We found that female elk selection for areas restricting public hunting access was stronger than selection for security habitat in both study areas, and that the density of roads open to motorized use was the strongest predictor of elk distribution. Increases in selection for areas that restricted hunting access occurred during the rifle hunting period, and we did not find consistent evidence these movements were triggered by the archery hunting period. Our results provide evidence that in landscapes characterized by a matrix of public and privately owned lands, traditional concepts of elk security habitat need to be expanded to also include areas that restrict hunter access to plan for elk population management that is regulated through adult female harvest. Future efforts should investigate whether elk use of areas that restrict hunter access are flexible behavioral responses to hunting risk, or if these behaviors are passed from generation to generation such that a learned pattern of private land use becomes the normal movement pattern rather than a short‐term behavioral response. Published 2013. This article is a U.S. Government work and is in the public domain in the USA.
Effects of water discharge on fledging time, growth, and survival of piping plovers on the Missouri River
Authors: Catlin Daniel H. , Felio Joy H. , Fraser James D.
Published: January 2013

River flow management and modification is a global issue, and its effects on river‐dependent organisms are pervasive. Flow modification can directly affect avian species through mortality or habitat loss, but less is known about indirect and sublethal effects of flow modification on reproductive output in these species. Young birds are more vulnerable to predation between hatching and fledging than after flight is achieved, but tradeoffs must be made to balance growth and survival. Predation pressure appears to be a significant factor affecting the time to fledging in altricial birds, but less is known about this threat for precocial birds. Birds reaching fledging earlier should have greater rates of survival to migration because their predator escape repertoire includes flight at an earlier age. We evaluated the effect of varying outflows from the Gavins Point Dam on the growth, age at fledging, and survival of piping plover (Charadrius melodus) chicks on the Missouri River (2006–2009). The study was characterized by 2 relatively high flow years (2006 and 2009) and 2 relatively low flow years (2007 and 2008). We used success rate in recapturing chicks in capture–mark–recapture models as an index for fledging. We attempted to recapture all chicks (n = 1,099) by hand every 3–4 days throughout the season to acquire morphological measurements. Models indicated that as flows from the dam increased, age at fledging increased. We also found that increasing flows were associated with decreasing daily survival rates (βflow = −2.401, 95% CI: −4.351 to −0.452). Flow was also negatively related to chick mass gain, but we found less evidence for an effect on wing‐chord length. Increased flows covered wet‐substrate foraging habitat, and likely affected plover reproductive output directly through chick survival and indirectly through decreased growth and increased fledging times. © The Wildlife Society, 2013
Water signal attenuation by D2O infusion as a novel contrast mechanism for 1H perfusion MRI
Authors: Wang Fu‐Nien , Peng Shin‐Lei , Lu Chin‐Tien , Peng Hsu‐Hsia , Yeh Tzu‐Chen
Published: January 2013

Deuterium oxide (D2O), which is commercially available and nonradioactive, was proposed as a perfusion tracer before the clinical usage of conventional gadolinium‐based MRI contrast agents. However, the sensitivity of direct deuterium detection is the major challenge for its application. In this study, we propose a contrast‐enhanced strategy to indirectly trace administered D2O by monitoring the signal attenuation of 1H MRI. Experiments on D2O concentration phantoms and in vivo rat brains were conducted to prove the concept of the proposed contrast mechanism. An average maximum signal drop ratio of 5.25 ± 0.91% was detected on 1H MR images of rat brains with 2 mL of D2O administered per 100 g of body weight. As a diffusible tracer for perfusion, D2O infusion is a practicable method for the assessment of tissue perfusion and has the potential to provide different information from gadolinium‐based contrast agents, which have limited permeability for blood vessels. Furthermore, the observed negative relaxivities of D2O reveal the 1H–D exchange effect. Therefore, applications of perfusion MRI with D2O as a contrast agent are worthy of further investigation. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Magnetic resonance imaging of time‐varying magnetic fields from therapeutic devices
Authors: Hernandez‐Garcia Luis , Bhatia Vivek , Prem‐Kumar Krishan , Ulfarsson Magnus
Published: January 2013

While magnetic resonance imaging of static magnetic fields generated by external probes has been previously demonstrated, there is an unmet need to image time‐varying magnetic fields such as those generated by transcranial magnetic stimulators and radiofrequency hyperthermia probes. A method to image such time‐varying magnetic fields is introduced in this study. This article presents the theory behind the method and provides proof of concept by imaging time‐varying magnetic fields generated by a figure‐eight coil inside simple phantoms over a range of frequencies and intensities using a 7T small animal MRI scanner. The method was able to reconstruct the three‐dimensional components of the oscillating magnetic field vector. Copyright © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Crossing Scholarly Divides: Barriers and Bridges for Doctoral Students Attending Scholarly Conferences
Authors: Chapman Diane D. , Wiessner Colleen Aalsburg , Morton Janet , Fire Nancy , Jones Leslie Stevenson , Majekodunmi Deke
Published: January 2013

Scholarly conferences are one mechanism by which doctoral students can enter into their profession as practitioners and scholars. Unfortunately, research about the effectiveness of this career development strategy is limited. This paper explores learning experiences of doctoral students at a scholarly conference. Theories about learning communities, communities of practice, and knowledge creation frame student experiences. Special attention is given to how legitimate peripheral participation describes interactions of students with the scholarly community of practice during the conference. Recommendations for students, faculty, other scholars, and program planners are given in order to promote improved access to and participation in the scholarly community. Such changes can provide doctoral students with a smoother transition from academic learning to learning in the scholarly community of a professional conference.
The incidence of isolated single umbilical artery in twins and adverse pregnancy outcomes
Authors: Stout Molly J. , Odibo Anthony O. , Longman Ryan , Shanks Anthony L. , Cahill Alison G.
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The aim of this study was to estimate the incidence of single umbilical artery (SUA) in twin pregnancies and to investigate whether SUA in twin gestations is associated with adverse obstetric outcomes.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of consecutive twin pregnancies over 17 years at a tertiary care hospital. Primary exposure was SUA in one or both twins documented at routine second trimester anatomic survey. Adverse obstetric outcomes included small for gestational age (SGA), placental abruption, and preterm birth, evaluated in univariable and multivariable analyses. Analysis was performed both at the pregnancy level and at the fetal level using paired analyses to account for the non‐independence of twin pairs.

Results

Of the 2378 twin pregnancies without major anatomic abnormalities, 1.7% (n = 40) had SUA. Only one pregnancy (one monochorionic twin pair) was complicated by both twins having SUA. Twin fetuses with SUA are at increased risk for SGA (aOR = 2.1 (1.2–4.1), p = 0.03) after adjusting for pertinent confounding factors, similar to the findings of previous studies in singleton pregnancies. In addition, twins with SUA may be at increased risk for preterm delivery before 28 weeks compared with twin pregnancies with normal three‐vessel umbilical cords (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 3.2 (1.3–7.89.4), p = 0.01).

Conclusions

The incidence of SUA in twin gestations in this cohort is significantly less than the recently published data. Similar to reports in singleton gestations, SUA appears to be associated with an increased risk for SGA in twins. © 2013 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Adhesion performance and surface characteristics of low surface energy psas fluorinated by UV polymerization
Authors: Bae Kyung‐Yul , Lim Dong‐Hyuk , Park Ji‐Won , Kim Hyun‐Joong , Jeong Han‐Mo , Takemura Akio
Published: January 2013

Acrylic pressure sensitive adhesives (PSAs) have a range of applications in industry, such as medical products, aircraft, space shuttles, electrical devices, optical products, and automobiles, etc. In this study, acrylic PSAs with fluorinated groups were synthesized using 2,2,2‐trifluoroethyl methacrylate (TFMA) under UV radiation. The surface properties and adhesion strength were measured. The results showed that the addition of TFMA reduced the surface energy of the PSAs and improved the adhesion strength. POLYM. ENG. SCI., 2013. © 2013 Society of Plastics Engineers
Functional capacity during exercise in very‐low‐birth‐weight premature children
Authors: Tsopanoglou Sabrina Pinheiro , Davidson Josy , Goulart Ana Lucia , de Moraes Barros Marina Carvalho , dos Santos Amélia Miyashiro Nunes
Published: January 2013

Objectives

The functional capacity of children born prematurely with very‐low‐birth weight was compared with that of children born at full‐term using the six‐minute walk test (6MWT) and the ten‐minutes shuttle walk test (10MSWT). The factors affecting walking distance were analyzed.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with two groups of children aged 6–9 years, matched by sex and age. One group included children born before 37 weeks of gestation weighing <1,500 g and the second group included children born at term. Both groups were submitted to the 6MWT and 10MWST, performed on the same day with an interval of 20 min between tests and the sequence of the tests was randomized, by sealed–envelope technique. Physiological parameters were measured at the beginning and end of each test. The walking distance and factors affecting the walking distance were analyzed.

Results

Thirty‐seven children born prematurely and 37 born at term were studied. The premature children walked shorter distances in the 6MWT (480.9 ± 80.5 m vs. 518.3 ± 51.8 m, P = 0.010) than term children, and both groups walked similar distances in the 10MSWT (391.5 ± 99.0 m vs. 406.1 ± 79.2 m, P = 0.487). By multiple linear regression analysis, adjusted for confounders, walking distance was associated with height (OR: 3.6) and oxygen dependency at 28 days (OR: −67.7) in the 6MWT (P < 0.001) and with height (OR: 4.9) and oxygen dependency at 28 days (OR: −91.0) in the 10MSWT (P < 0.001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study suggests that children born prematurely with very low birth weight, especially those who had bronchopulmonary dysplasia present limited functional capacity during exercise. Pediatr Pulmonol. 2014; 49:91–98. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Identification of transcription factors associated with castration‐resistance: Is the serum responsive factor a potential therapeutic target?
Authors: Prencipe Maria , Madden Stephen F. , O'Neill Amanda , O'Hurley Gillian , Culhane Aedin , O'Connor Darran , Klocker Helmut , Kay Elaine W. , Gallagher William M. , Watson William R.
Published: January 2013

BACKGROUND

Advanced prostate cancer is treated by hormone ablation therapy. However, despite an initial response, the majority of men relapse to develop castration‐resistant disease for which there are no effective treatments.

We have previously shown that manipulating individual proteins has only minor alterations on the resistant phenotype so we hypothesize that targeting the central transcription factors (TFs) would represent a better therapeutic approach.

METHODS

We have undertaken a transcriptomic analysis of gene expression differences between the androgen‐dependent LNCaP parental cells and its castration‐resistant Abl and Hof sublines, revealing 1,660 genes associated with castration‐resistance. Using effective bioinformatic techniques, these transcriptomic data were integrated with TF binding sites resulting in a list of TFs associated with the differential gene expression observed.

RESULTS

Following validation of the gene‐chip results, the serum response factor (SRF) was chosen for clinical validation and functional analysis due to its recent association with prostate cancer progression. SRF immunoreactivity in prostate tumor samples was shown for the first time to be associated with castration‐resistance. SRF inhibition by siRNA and the small molecule inhibitor CCG‐1423 resulted in decreased proliferation.

CONCLUSION

SRF is a key TF by which resistant cells survive with depleted levels of androgens representing a target for therapeutic manipulation. Prostate 73: 743–753, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Crystal structure of human multiple copies in T‐cell lymphoma‐1 oncoprotein
Authors: Tempel Wolfram , Dimov Slav , Tong Yufeng , Park Hee‐Won , Hong Bum Soo
Published: January 2013

Overexpression of multiple copies in T‐cell lymphoma‐1 (MCT‐1) oncogene accompanies malignant phenotypic changes in human lymphoma cells. Specific disruption of MCT‐1 results in reduced tumorigenesis, suggesting a potential for MCT‐1‐targeted therapeutic strategy. MCT‐1 is known as a cap‐binding protein and has a putative RNA‐binding motif, the PUA‐domain, at its C‐terminus. We determined the crystal structure of apo MCT‐1 at 1.7 Å resolution using the surface entropy reduction method. Notwithstanding limited sequence identity to its homologs, the C‐terminus of MCT‐1 adopted a typical PUA‐domain fold that includes secondary structural elements essential for RNA recognition. The surface of the N‐terminal domain contained positively charged patches that are predicted to contribute to RNA‐binding. Proteins 2013. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adolescents' emotions and reasoning in contexts of moral conflict and social exclusion
Authors: Malti Tina , Ongley Sophia F. , Dys Sebastian P. , Colasante Tyler
Published: January 2013

This article explores how adolescents feel and think about contexts of moral conflict and social exclusion. We asked twelve‐year‐old adolescents how they would feel about intentionally harming another peer, omitting a prosocial duty, and excluding another peer. We then asked them to explain the reasoning behind their feelings and report on levels of sympathy. In all contexts, adolescents anticipated a variety of negative emotions for reasons of fairness and empathy. However, more feelings of guilt were reported in contexts of intentional harm than in other contexts. Adolescents with high levels of sympathy reported more guilt, for reasons of fairness and empathy, than adolescents with low levels of sympathy. These findings provide a window into adolescents' emotions and reasoning regarding moral and social issues.
Indirect probes of the MSSM after the Higgs discovery
Authors: Altmannshofer Wolfgang , Carena Marcela , Shah Nausheen R. , Yu Felix
Published: January 2013

Abstract

We study the minimal supersymmetric standard model (MSSM) with minimal flavor violation (MFV), imposing constraints from flavor physics observables and MSSM Higgs searches, in light of the recent discovery of a 125 GeV Higgs boson by ATLAS and CMS. We analyze the electroweak vacuum stability conditions to further restrict the MSSM parameter space. In addition, a connection to ultraviolet physics is shown via an implementation of renormalization group running, which determines the TeV-scale spectrum from a small set of minimal supergravity parameters. Finally, we investigate the impact from dark matter direct detection searches. Our work highlights the complementarity of collider, flavor and dark matter probes in exploring the MSSM, and shows that even in a MFV framework, flavor observables constrain the MSSM parameter space well beyond the current reach of direct SUSY particle searches.
Idiopathic scoliosis: Etiological concepts and hypotheses
Authors: Dayer Romain , Haumont Thierry , Belaieff Wilson , Lascombes Pierre
Published: January 2013

Scoliosis is diagnosed as idiopathic in 70 % of structural deformities affecting the spine in children and adolescents, probably reflecting our current misunderstanding of this disease. By definition, a structural scoliosis should be the result of some primary disorder. The goal of this article is to give a comprehensive overview of the currently proposed etiological concepts in idiopathic scoliosis regarding genetics, molecular biology, biomechanics, and neurology, with particular emphasis on adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Despite the fact that numerous potential etiologies for idiopathic scoliosis have been formulated, the primary etiology of AIS remains unknown. Beyond etiology, identification of prognostic factors of AIS progression would probably be more relevant in our daily practice, with the hope of reducing repetitive exposure to radiation, unnecessary brace treatments, psychological implications, and costs-of-care related to follow-up in low-risk patients.
‘I'm not a family therapist. OK?’ Working Constructively with Families in Aged Psychiatry
Authors: Hudgson Catherine , Rycroft Pam , Giri Shraeveni
Published: January 2013

This paper reports on the first phase of a larger study aimed at investigating factors hindering family work and exploring ways to improve the amount and quality of family contact within a community aged mental health service in Melbourne, Australia. During the first phase of the project, 28 mental health professionals were interviewed about their views and experiences. Interviews were transcribed, coded, and analysed in terms of repeating themes. The range of attitudes, beliefs and feelings about family work is summarised in this paper. Polarities emerged around questions of whether or not to engage family members, and if so, what function family work fulfils. The interviews also provided useful information on clinicians' beliefs about what would increase the possibility of family work. The paper concludes with a discussion about how to recognize and value family work in this area and target sustainable interventions during the second phase of the study.
The African Union, Constitutionalism and Power-Sharing
Authors: Vandeginste Stef
Published: January 2013

Over the past decade, the African Union has put in place a normative framework to promote constitutional rule and, in particular, orderly constitutional transfers of power in its member states. Its Peace and Security Council opposes unconstitutional changes of government, including through the use of sanctions. The PSC systematically advocates a return to constitutional order, in particular through free and fair elections, as a remedy for unconstitutional changes of government. However, while opposing unconstitutional means of obtaining or transferring power, the AU has been generally supportive of the use of power-sharing agreements as an instrument of negotiated conflict settlement. Most power-sharing agreements do not accord with the prevailing constitutional order. This dual policy, of opposing certain types of unconstitutional change of government while advocating power-sharing agreements, poses an obvious challenge for the consistency of AU policy.
The Distribution and Possible Role of ERK8 in Mouse Oocyte Meiotic Maturation and Early Embryo Cleavage
Authors: Yang Shang-Wu , Huang Hao , Gao Chen , Chen Lei , Qi Shu-Tao , Lin Fei , Wang Jian-Xin , Hou Yi , Xing Fu-Qi , Sun Qing-Yuan
Published: January 2013

It is well known that extracellular signal-regulated kinase 8 (ERK8) plays pivotal roles in various mitotic events. But its physiological roles in oocyte meiotic maturation remain unclear. In this study, we found that although no specific ERK8 signal was detected in oocyte at the germinal vesicle stage, ERK8 began to migrate to the periphery of chromosomes shortly after germinal vesicle breakdown. At prometaphase I, metaphase I (MI), anaphase I, telophase I, and metaphase II (MII) stages, ERK8 was stably detected at the spindles. By taxol treatment, we clarified that the ERK8 signal was stained on the spindle fibers as well as microtubule asters in MI and MII oocytes. In fertilized eggs, the ERK8 signal was not observed in the two pronuclei stages. At prometaphase, metaphase, and anaphase of the first mitosis, ERK8 was detected on the mitotic spindle. ERK8 knock down by antibody microinjection and specific siRNA caused abnormal spindles, failed chromosome congression, and decreased first polar body extrusion. Taken together, our results suggest that ERK8 plays an important role in spindle organization during mouse oocyte meiotic maturation and early embryo cleavage.
The mannose 6-phosphate-binding sites of M6P/IGF2R determine its capacity to suppress matrix invasion by squamous cell carcinoma cells
Authors: Probst Olivia C. , Karayel Evren , Schida Nicole , Nimmerfall Elisabeth , Hehenberger Elisabeth , Puxbaum Verena , Mach Lukas
Published: January 2013

The M6P (mannose 6-phosphate)/IGF2R (insulin-like growth factor II receptor) interacts with a variety of factors that impinge on tumour invasion and metastasis. It has been shown that expression of wild-type M6P/IGF2R reduces the tumorigenic and invasive properties of receptor-deficient SCC-VII squamous cell carcinoma cells. We have now used mutant forms of M6P/IGF2R to assess the relevance of the different ligand-binding sites of the receptor for its biological activities in this cellular system. The results of the present study demonstrate that M6P/IGF2R does not require a functional binding site for insulin-like growth factor II for inhibition of anchorage-independent growth and matrix invasion by SCC-VII cells. In contrast, the simultaneous mutation of both M6P-binding sites is sufficient to impair all cellular functions of the receptor tested. These findings highlight that the interaction between M6P/IGF2R and M6P-modified ligands is not only important for intracellular accumulation of lysosomal enzymes and formation of dense lysosomes, but is also crucial for the ability of the receptor to suppress SCC-VII growth and invasion. The present study also shows that some of the biological activities of M6P/IGF2R in SCC-VII cells strongly depend on a functional M6P-binding site within domain 3, thus providing further evidence for the non-redundant cellular functions of the individual carbohydrate-binding domains of the receptor.
Islamist political movements in Yemen
Authors: Eissa Abdulmalik Mohammad Abdullah
Published: January 2013

This article presents an overview of Yemeni society before proceeding to a detailed account of research undertaken by the author into the factors behind the rise of Islamic extremism in Yemen and its appeal, especially among the young and most deprived sectors of society. The author draws on and relates his findings to a number of theoretical works, including those of authorities such as Max Weber as well as more recent analysts, in a discussion of what drives extremist group formation and what attracts their adherents, in general terms and in Yemen in particular. The findings of a survey of public opinion in Yemen conducted by the author are recounted in some detail.
Interaction between residues in the Mg2+-binding site regulates BK channel activation
Authors: Yang Junqiu , Yang Huanghe , Sun Xiaohui , Delaloye Kelli , Yang Xiao , Moller Alyssa , Shi Jingyi , Cui Jianmin
Published: January 2013

As a unique member of the voltage-gated potassium channel family, a large conductance, voltage- and Ca2+-activated K+ (BK) channel has a large cytosolic domain that serves as the Ca2+ sensor, in addition to a membrane-spanning domain that contains the voltage-sensing (VSD) and pore-gate domains. The conformational changes of the cytosolic domain induced by Ca2+ binding and the conformational changes of the VSD induced by membrane voltage changes trigger the opening of the pore-gate domain. Although some structural information of these individual functional domains is available, how the interactions among these domains, especially the noncovalent interactions, control the dynamic gating process of BK channels is still not clear. Previous studies discovered that intracellular Mg2+ binds to an interdomain binding site consisting of D99 and N172 from the membrane-spanning domain and E374 and E399 from the cytosolic domain. The bound Mg2+ at this narrow interdomain interface activates the BK channel through an electrostatic interaction with a positively charged residue in the VSD. In this study, we investigated the potential interdomain interactions between the Mg2+-coordination residues and their effects on channel gating. By introducing different charges to these residues, we discovered a native interdomain interaction between D99 and E374 that can affect BK channel activation. To understand the underlying mechanism of the interdomain interactions between the Mg2+-coordination residues, we introduced artificial electrostatic interactions between residues 172 and 399 from two different domains. We found that the interdomain interactions between these two positions not only alter the local conformations near the Mg2+-binding site but also change distant conformations including the pore-gate domain, thereby affecting the voltage- and Ca2+-dependent activation of the BK channel. These results illustrate the importance of interdomain interactions to the allosteric gating mechanisms of BK channels.
Mechanism of sodium channel NaV1.9 potentiation by G-protein signaling
Authors: Vanoye Carlos G. , Kunic Jennifer D. , Ehring George R. , George Alfred L.
Published: January 2013

Tetrodotoxin (TTX)-resistant voltage-gated Na (NaV) channels have been implicated in nociception. In particular, NaV1.9 contributes to expression of persistent Na current in small diameter, nociceptive sensory neurons in dorsal root ganglia and is required for inflammatory pain sensation. Using ND7/23 cells stably expressing human NaV1.9, we elucidated the biophysical mechanisms responsible for potentiation of channel activity by G-protein signaling to better understand the response to inflammatory mediators. Heterologous NaV1.9 expression evoked TTX-resistant Na current with peak activation at −40 mV with extensive overlap in voltage dependence of activation and inactivation. Inactivation kinetics were slow and incomplete, giving rise to large persistent Na currents. Single-channel recording demonstrated long openings and correspondingly high open probability (Po) accounting for the large persistent current amplitude. Channels exposed to intracellular GTPγS, a proxy for G-protein signaling, exhibited twofold greater current density, slowing of inactivation, and a depolarizing shift in voltage dependence of inactivation but no change in activation voltage dependence. At the single-channel level, intracellular GTPγS had no effect on single-channel amplitude but caused an increased mean open time and greater Po compared with recordings made in the absence of GTPγS. We conclude that G-protein activation potentiates human NaV1.9 activity by increasing channel open probability and mean open time, causing the larger peak and persistent current, respectively. Our results advance our understanding about the mechanism of NaV1.9 potentiation by G-protein signaling during inflammation and provide a cellular platform useful for the discovery of NaV1.9 modulators with potential utility in treating inflammatory pain.
Written language skills in children with specific language impairment
Authors: Williams Gareth J. , Larkin Rebecca F. , Blaggan Samarita
Published: January 2013

Background

Young children are often required to carry out writing tasks in an educational context. However, little is known about the patterns of writing skills that children with specific language impairment (CwSLI) have relative to their typically developing peers.

Aims

To assess the written language skills of CwSLI and compare these with typically developing peers. It also aimed to assess the relative contributions of reading and spelling skills to written language skills.

Methods & Procedures

Forty‐five children took part in the study: 15 were CwSLI, 15 were a chronological age match and 15 were a spelling age match. The children took part in a range of tasks that assessed writing, reading and spelling abilities.

Outcomes & Results

In their written language and compared with typical age‐matched peers, CwSLI used a significantly less diverse range of words, had lower quality written compositions overall, and lower levels of organization, unity and coherence. They also had a higher proportion of spelling errors. Overall, writing skills were strongly associated with reading skills.

Conclusions & Implications

The findings demonstrate the challenges CwSLI have in producing good‐quality written text and that these challenges are likely to be related to the linguistic skills profile shown by these children.
Recent progress in bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer
Authors: Akagi Satoshi , Geshi Masaya , Nagai Takashi
Published: January 2013

Bovine somatic cell nuclear transfer (SCNT) embryos can develop to the blastocyst stage at a rate similar to that of embryos produced by in vitro fertilization. However, the full‐term developmental rate of SCNT embryos is very low, owing to the high embryonic and fetal losses after embryo transfer. In addition, increased birth weight and postnatal mortality are observed at high rates in cloned calves. The low efficiency of SCNT is probably attributed to incomplete reprogramming of the donor nucleus and most of the developmental problems of clones are thought to be caused by epigenetic defects. Applications of SCNT will depend on improvement in the efficiency of production of healthy cloned calves. In this review, we discuss problems and recent progress in bovine SCNT.
Combined surgical therapy of advanced peri‐implantitis lesions with concomitant soft tissue volume augmentation. A case series
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Sahm Narja , Becker Juergen
Published: January 2013

Objectives

Mucosal recessions are a common finding following surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis, thus compromising the overall esthetic outcome of implant therapy. This case series aimed at evaluating the clinical outcome of a combined surgical therapy of advanced peri‐implantitis lesions with concomitant soft tissue volume augmentation.

Material and methods

Ten patients (n = 13 implants exhibiting combined supra‐ and intrabony defects) underwent access flap surgery, implantoplasty at bucally and supracrestally exposed implant parts, and augmentation of the intrabony components using a natural bone mineral and a native collagen membrane after surface decontamination. A subepithelial connective tissue graft was harvested from the palate and adapted to the wound area to support transmucosal healing. Clinical parameters (i.e. bleeding on probing – BOP; probing depths – PD; mucosal recession – MR; clinical attachment level – CAL) were recorded at baseline and after 6 months.

Results

At 6 months, the combined surgical procedure was associated with a significant reduction in mean BOP (74.39 ± 28.52%), PD (2.53 ± 1.80 mm), and CAL (2.07 ± 1.93 mm) values. Site‐level analysis has pointed to a slight increase in mean mucosal height (0.07 ± 0.5 mm) at the buccal aspects (i.e. mb, b, db).

Conclusion

The combined surgical procedure investigated may be effective in controlling advanced peri‐implantitis lesions without compromising the overall esthetic outcome in the short term.
The effect of atorvastatin and simvastatin on vitamin D, oxidative stress and inflammatory marker concentrations in patients with type 2 diabetes: a crossover study
Authors: Sathyapalan T. , Shepherd J. , Atkin S. L. , Kilpatrick E. S.
Published: January 2013

The pleiotropic effect of statins may be mediated in part through raising 25 hydroxy vitamin D (25OHD) concentrations. It has also been shown that an increase in oxidative stress and inflammatory markers are a feature of the patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM). A cross‐over study of 26 patients with T2DM taking either simvastatin 40 mg or atorvastatin 10 mg was undertaken. After 3 months on one statin, lipids, C‐reactive protein (hsCRP), 25OHD and malondialdehyde (MDA) were measured repeatedly. The same procedure was then followed taking the other statin. Despite similar lipid‐lowering, the mean 25OHD was higher on atorvastatin compared with simvastatin and the mean MDA and hsCRP levels lower, irrespective of which statin the patients were taking before crossover. The changes in 25OHD predicted changes in CRP and MDA levels. Thus, compared with simvastatin, atorvastatin shows apparently beneficial pleiotropic effects with respect to 25OHD concentrations as well as markers of oxidative stress and inflammation in patients with T2DM.
Phase IIa randomized double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of inhaled apomorphine as acute challenge for rescuing ‘off’ periods in patients with established Parkinson's disease
Authors: Grosset K. A. , Malek N. , Morgan F. , Grosset D. G.
Published: January 2013

Background and purpose

In this first study of inhaled apomorphine (VR040) in patients with Parkinson's disease, the primary objective was to find the minimum efficacious dose of apomorphine that was useful in rescuing patients during ‘off’ periods. Safety, tolerability and pharmacokinetics of inhaled apomorphine were assessed during the study.

Methods

A double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomized trial of three escalating single doses of inhaled apomorphine (0.2, 0.5 and 0.8 mg fine particle dose) versus placebo (3 : 1 active:placebo) was performed. Parkinson's motor severity assessments by a clinician, and disease state assessment by the patient, were performed at baseline during an ‘off’ state, and at specified times after test drug administration. Safety assessments (including vital signs, electrocardiogram and forced expiratory volume) were performed, and plasma apomorphine levels measured.

Results

All 24 patients completed the study, and considering the three dose levels together, inhaled apomorphine did not significantly increase the proportion of patients switching from ‘off’ to ‘on’ (0/6 at 0.2 mg, 3/6 at 0.5 mg and 2/6 at 0.8 mg vs. 1/6 for placebo), or decrease the time from ‘off’ to ‘on’ post‐treatment (10 min for 0.5 mg, 40 min for 0.8 mg, vs. 20 min for placebo). However, there was a suggestion of benefit at the higher doses (5/12 switched ‘on’ at the 0.5 or 0.8 mg doses, vs. 1/6 for placebo). There were no serious adverse events and treatment was well tolerated. Peak plasma concentration was 1–3 min post‐dose, and plasma level dose proportionality was observed.

Conclusions

Inhaled apomorphine was safe and well tolerated at the doses tested for an acute challenge to rescue ‘off’ periods, but efficacy at these doses was limited. A follow‐up study at higher doses is appropriate given these initial findings.
Effective fishing effort indicators and their application to spatial management of mixed demersal fisheries
Authors: Tidd A. N.
Published: January 2013

Since the Common Fisheries Policy reform in 2002, there have been various proposals for designing effective input‐management tools in the context of demersal multispecies and multimétier fisheries to augment quota management. The relationship between fishing mortality and effort exerted by the English beam trawl fleet is investigated for two stocks ofNorthSea demersal fish, plaice,Pleuronectes platessaL., and sole,Solea solea(L.). Catchability was adjusted by accounting for targeting by this gear, seasonal and area effects, and individual vessel variation, using results from a generalised linear mixed‐effects model (GLMM) that included random effects (in this case, vessel). Descriptors were standardised in relation to distinct submétiers and their impact on both species. Fishing efficiency was calculated as the ratio between relative nominal landings per unit effort derived from theGLMMand survey indices from a standard survey vessel. Fishing efficiency for sole increased (+0.6% annually) and for plaice decreased (−6.2%), likely because of changes in targeting, fuel costs and regulations.
Business and Social Profiles of Immigrant‐Owned Small Firms: The Case of Pakistani Immigrant Entrepreneurs in Greece
Authors: Halkias Daphne
Published: January 2013

This study examines Pakistani immigrant entrepreneurs in Greece in order to identify patterns of ethnic entrepreneurship and socio‐economic challenges faced by ethnic entrepreneurs. The research aims to enhance understanding of the characteristics and business profiles of Pakistani immigrant entrepreneurs in Greece's capital, Athens, and make recommendations for the development of a follow‐up three‐year longitudinal study of Pakistani immigrant businesses in Athens. A survey administered to 13 Pakistani immigrant entrepreneurs recorded a wide range of data from which frequency distributions were processed as well as cross‐tabulations and Chi‐square tests, to reveal strong associations. Findings of note reveal that Pakistani immigrant entrepreneurs set up enterprises with their own capital rather than turning to the private financial sector, are mostly well‐educated despite earlier research noting the opposite, Greece is the terminal migration destination of choice for Pakistani immigrant entrepreneurs, their market‐share of work permits is proportionately larger than their residence permit share, they differ from other ethnic groups by substantial preference for operation of call centers, and they are very much bound to their ethnic enclaves. This body of research offers a unique contribution to an area which has until now been largely ignored.
Fourteen‐year oncological and functional outcomes of high‐intensity focused ultrasound in localized prostate cancer
Authors: Ganzer Roman , Fritsche Hans‐Martin , Brandtner Andreas , Bründl Johannes , Koch Daniel , Wieland Wolf F. , Blana Andreas
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

High‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) is an alternative treatment option for localized prostate cancer (PCa), which is applied for over 15 years. There are conflicting recommendations for HIFU among urological societies, which can be explained by the lack of prospective controlled studies, reports on preselected patient populations and limited follow‐up providing little information on overall and cancer‐specific survival.

We report on a large, unselected consecutive patient series of patients who have undergone primary HIFU for clinically localized PCa with the longest follow‐up in current literature. Our results improve the understanding of the oncological efficacy, morbidity and side effects of primary HIFU.

Objective

To assess the safety, functional and oncological long‐term outcomes of high‐intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU) as a primary treatment option for localized prostate cancer (PCa).

Patients and Methods

We conducted a retrospective single‐centre study on 538 consecutive patients who underwent primary HIFU for clinically localized PCa between November 1997 and September 2009.

Factors assessed were: biochemical disease‐free survival (BDFS) according to Phoenix criteria (prostate‐specific antigen nadir + 2 ng/mL); metastatic‐free, overall and PCa‐specific survival; salvage treatment; side effects; potency; and continence status.

Results

The mean (sd; range) follow‐up was 8.1 (2.9; 2.1–14.0) years.

The actuarial BDFS rates at 5 and 10 years were 81 and 61%, respectively. The 5‐year BDFS rates for low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk patients were 88, 83 and 48%, while the 10‐year BDFS rates were 71, 63 and 32%, respectively.

Metastatic disease was reported in 0.4, 5.7 and 15.4% of low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk patients, respectively.

The salvage treatment rate was 18%.

Seventy‐five (13.9%) patients died. PCa‐specific death was registered in 18 (3.3%) patients (0, 3.8 and 11% in the low‐, intermediate‐ and high‐risk groups, respectively).

Side effects included bladder outlet obstruction (28.3%), Grade I, II and III stress urinary incontinence (13.8, 2.4 and 0.7%, respectively) and recto‐urethral fistula (0.7%). Preserved potency was 25.4% (in previously potent patients).

Conclusions

The study demonstrates the efficacy and safety of HIFU for localized PCa.

HIFU is a therapeutic option for patients of advanced age, in the low‐ or intermediate‐risk groups, and with a life expectancy of ∼10 years.
Effect of Ozone on the Antioxidant Capacity of “Qiushui” Pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai cv. Qiushui) during Postharvest Storage
Authors: Zhao Zheng , Xu Gangming , Han Zhinan , Li Qingqing , Chen Yilun , Li Dapeng
Published: January 2013

The aims of this study are to investigate the effect of different concentrations of ozone (O3) on pear fruit quality. “Qiushui” Asian pear (Pyrus pyrifolia Nakai cv. “Qiushui”) were treated with various concentrations of O3 (2.14, 6.42 and 21.4 mg/m3) at room temperature everyday for 1 h. The pear fruit firmness, superoxide dismutase, catalase, peroxidase (POD), polyphenol oxidase (PPO) activity and the antioxidant composition contents (total phenolics and total flavonoids) were investigated every 8 days. Results indicated that O3 treatment maintained high level of firmness and total soluble solids and also increased the antioxidant enzymes activity of pear fruit during storage. The moderate O3 (6.42 mg/m3) treatment could significantly induce higher POD activity, inhibit PPO activity and keep high contents of total phenolics and total flavonoids. These results suggest that postharvest application of suitable O3 treatment (6.42 mg/m3) could enhance antioxidant capacity and keep pear fruit quality.

Practical Applications

The presented study showed that treatment with suitable concentration of O3 (6.42 mg/m3) could delay the decrease of fruit quality, induce higher antioxidant enzyme activities, and keep a higher antioxidant capability of the “Qiushui” pear fruit during storage at room temperature. These results suggest that suitable O3 treatment is a useful method for maintaining “Qiushui” pear fruit quality and extending their postharvest life; it might have potential application in pear fruit preservation.
Effect of Pasta Cooking Time on the Content and Fractional Composition of Dietary Fiber
Authors: Sobota Aldona , Zarzycki Piotr
Published: January 2013

The objective of this study was to determine the effect of pasta cooking time on changes in the content of selected components in dry matter, including changes in the content of total dietary fiber (TDF) and of its insoluble (IDF) and soluble fractions. Longer time of cooking resulted in greater cooking loss. After 16‐min, cooking loss was at 7% d.m. As a result of the application of extended cooking time, a significant increase was observed in the content of TDF, including the IDF fraction, in dry matter. There was slight change in the content of the soluble fiber fraction.

Practical Applications

In the era of civilization diseases, such as obesity, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases and colorectal cancer, properly balanced diet is of very high importance. Cereal products rich in dietary fiber should be an inseparable element of such a diet. Numerous studies have been devoted to the content of dietary fiber in raw food. However, most food, for example pasta is not eaten raw but cooked. Many processes can cause changes in the content and fractional composition of dietary fiber. In this work, the effect of pasta cooking time on the content and fractional composition of dietary fiber was analyzed. The presented studies are important especially from the nutritional point of view.
Compounding Pharmacies: Who is in Charge?
Authors: Pergolizzi Joseph V. , Labhsetwar Sumedha , LeQuang Jo Ann
Published: January 2013

Compounding pharmacies play an increasing and increasingly important role in our healthcare system, but recent media attention has exposed limited regulatory control over these organizations at the same time their role is expanding. Compounding pharmacies are not regulated in the same manner as pharmaceutical companies and are governed largely by Chapter <797>, a monograph on the pharmaceutical compounding of sterile products, issued but not enforced by the U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention. Not all states require adherence to Chapter <797>, and those that do may choose not to enforce it stringently. Furthermore, Chapter <797> is not a strong standard—for example, it does not require documentation of drug lot numbers or cross‐references for patient identification. Thus, there have long been many potential quality issues associated with compounding pharmacies. As these compounding pharmacies provide important products and services, better regulation is urgently needed. Moreover, clinicians should be better aware that some injectable products they use may have been prepared by a compounding pharmacy.
Traffic Routes and Signals for the Tonoplast
Authors: Pedrazzini Emanuela , Komarova Nataliya Y. , Rentsch Doris , Vitale Alessandro
Published: January 2013

Tonoplast, the membrane delimiting plant vacuoles, regulates ion, water and nutrient movement between the cytosol and the vacuolar lumen through the activity of its membrane proteins. Correct traffic of proteins from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) to the tonoplast requires (i) approval by the ER quality control, (ii) motifs for exit from the ER and (iii) motifs that promote sorting to the tonoplast. Recent evidence suggests that this traffic follows different pathways that are protein‐specific and could also reflect vacuole specialization for lytic or storage function. The routes can be distinguished based on their sensitivity to drugs such as brefeldin A and C834 as well as using mutant plants that are defective in adaptor proteins of vesicle coats, or dominant‐negative mutants of Rab GTPases.