bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Post‐partum plasma C‐peptide and ghrelin concentrations are predictive of type 2 diabetes in women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus 曾患妊娠期糖尿病的妇女的产后血浆C‐肽与饥饿素浓度是2型糖尿病的预测因子
Authors: Lappas Martha , Jinks Debra , Ugoni Antony , Louizos Connie C.J. , Permezel Michael , Georgiou Harry M.
Published: August 2014

Background

Women with previous gestational diabetes mellitus (pGDM) are at increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. The aim of this study was to determine if circulating levels of metabolic hormones 12 weeks following a GDM pregnancy are associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes 8–10 years later.

Methods

Fasting plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, C‐peptide, ghrelin, GIP, GLP‐1, glucagon, leptin, PAI‐1, resistin and visfatin were measured in 98 normal glucose tolerant women, 12 weeks following an index GDM pregnancy. Women were assessed every 2 years for up to 10 years for development of overt type 2 diabetes.

Results

After a median follow‐up period of 8.7 years, 22.5% of women with a pGDM pregnancy developed type 2 diabetes. Significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes were fasting plasma glucose levels >5 mmol/L during pregnancy and at 12 weeks post‐pregnancy. In addition, higher C‐peptide levels and lower ghrelin levels at 12 weeks post‐pregnancy were also significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes.

Conclusions

Fasting plasma glucose during pregnancy and post‐partum, and post‐partum C‐peptide and ghrelin levels were significant risk factors for the development of type 2 diabetes in women with pGDM. This is the first report that identifies C‐peptide and ghrelin as potential biomarkers for the prediction of type 2 diabetes in women with a history of GDM.
A New Enantiornithes (Aves) from the Early Cretaceous of China
Authors: DALSÄTT Johan , ERICSON Per G.P. , ZHOU Zhonge
Published: August 2014

A new bird from the early Cretaceous Yixian Formation of Liaoning, China is described. This new species, Grabauornis lingyuanensis, shares several synapomorphies with the Enantiornithes. The specimen is relatively well preserved. The skeletal morphology of Grabauornis bears close resemblance to that of other Chinese members of this clade. The brachial index (the ratio between the lengths of humerus and ulna) is 0.95, which is close to the average for enantiornithine birds. It indicates that Grabauornis was a rather good flyer, and the presence of an alula in the wing further testifies to this.
A New Lizard (Lepidosauria: Squamata) from the Upper Cretaceous of Henan, China
Authors: XU Li , WU Xiaochun , Junchang LÜ , JIA Songhai , ZHANG Jiming , PU Hanyong , ZHANG Xingliao
Published: August 2014

Funiusaurus luanchuanensis gen. et sp. nov. was described on the basis of an incomplete skull from the Upper Cretaceous Qiupa Formation of the Tantou Basin in Luanchuan County, Henan Province. It is the second representative of lizards known from Luanchuan and adds a new member to the Luanchuan Fauna. F. luanchuanensis is a small‐sized lizard and systematically assigned to the Polyglyphanodontidae of the Teiioidea because of the presence of a caniniform tooth and an elongate posterior process of the postorbital. It is distinctive in that the heterodont dentition bears 19 teeth in both the upper and lower jaws, the 3rd maxillary tooth is large and caniniform, the post‐caniniform teeth in maxilla and those posterior to the 3rd dentary tooth are chisel‐like in lateral view, the prefrontal possesses a fossa on its lateral surface, the postorbital with an extremely elongate posterior process and the well‐developed retroarticular process has a deep fossa on its dorsal surface. In phylogeny, our analysis suggests a close relationship of Funiusaurus to the large‐sized Tianyusaurus from the same basin within the Tuberocephalosaurinae. The discovery of Funiusaurus is significant in confirming the status of the Tuberocephalosaurinae, which includes a group of the Asian members of the Polyglyphanodontidae only.
Structure, Timing, and Mechanism of the Pliocene and Late Miocene Uplift Process of the Ailao Shan‐Diancang Shan, SE Tibet, China
Authors: LI Baolong , WANG Dandan , JI Jianqing
Published: August 2014

The uplift of the Ailao Shan‐Diancang Shan (ASDS) along the Ailao Shan‐Red River (ASRR) shear zone is an important geological event in the southeastern margin of Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau tectonic domain in the Late Cenozoic, and it preserves important information on the structures, exhumational history and tectonic evolution of the ASRR shear zone. The uplift structural mode and uplift timing of the ASDS is currently an important scientific topic for understanding the ASDS formation and late stage movements and evolution of the ASRR shear zone. The formation of the ASDS has been widely considered to be the consequence of the strike‐slip movements of the ASRR shear zone. However, the shaping of geomorphic units is generally direct results of the latest tectonic activities. In this study, we investigated the timing and uplift structural mechanism of the ASDS and provided the following lines of supportive evidence. Firstly, the primary tectonic foliation of the ASDS shows significant characteristic variations, with steeply dipping tectonic foliation developed on the east side of the ASDS and the relatively horizontal foliation on the west side. Secondly, from northeast to southwest direction, the deformation and metamorphism gradually weakened and this zone can be further divided into three different metamorphic degree belts. Thirdly, the contact relationship between the ASDS and the Chuxiong basin‐Erhai lake is a normal fault contact which can be found on the east side of the ASDS. 40Ar/39 Argeochronology suggests that the Diancang Shan had experienced a fast cooling event during 3–4 Ma. The apatite fission track testing method gives the age of 6.6–10.7 Ma in the Diancang Shan and 4.6–8.4 Ma in the Ailao Shan, respectively. Therefore the uplift of the ASDS can be explained by tilted block mode in which the east side was uplifted much higher than the west side, and it is not main reason of the shearing movements of the ASRR shear zone. The most recent uplift stages of the ASDS happened in the Pliocene (3–4 Ma) and Late Miocene (6–10 Ma).
Deformation Structures of the Madao Gneiss in South Qinling: Structural Analysis, Geochronological Constraints, and Tectonic Implications
Authors: WANG Dongsheng , WANG Zongqi , ZHANG Yingli , WANG Tao , CHEN Lei , ZHANG Yutao
Published: August 2014

The tectonic evolution of South Qinling, which is a main part of the Qinling orogenic belt, is still in dispute and deformation history of South Qinling is poorly studied. In this paper, detailed structural, microstructural, quartz c‐axis fabric analysis, and geochronology results for the Madao gneiss in South Qinling are presented to characterize the deformation history. Results show that rocks in the northern part (Tiefodian‐Laozhanggou) experience general shearing and deform at relative low temperature. The shear sense generally is south to north. In contrast, rocks in the southern part (Laozhanggou‐Panjiahe) are weakly sheared with pure shear features and evidence of high‐temperature deformation. Based on the analyses, we conclude that there exist two distinct deformation geometries in the Madao gneiss and accordingly we can divide the deformation into two stages. The early stage is represented by regional shortening, while the late stage features northward thrust shearing and evidence shows that it was a progressive process between them. LA‐ICP MS U‐Pb dating of zircons from pre‐deformational migmatite veins yields age of 198.5 ± 2.0 Ma. This result, in combination with the age of post‐deformational granite, indicates that the northward thrust shearing of the Madao gneiss occurred in the Late Triassic. In view of these results and other reported data in South Qinling, we propose that deformation in Madao gneiss may result from the initial collision and subsequent northward accretion in Late Triassic.
Tectonic Evolution of the Wanan Basin, Southwestern South China Sea
Authors: LÜ Caili , ZHANG Gongcheng , YAO Yongjian , WU Shiguo
Published: August 2014

Quantitative studies on the extension and subsidence of the Wanan Basin were carried out based on available seismic and borehole data together with regional geological data. Using balanced cross‐section and backstripping techniques, we reconstructed the stratigraphic deposition and tectonic evolution histories of the basin. The basin formed from the Eocene and was generally in an extensional/transtensional state except for the Late Miocene local compressoin. The major basin extension ocurred in the Oligocene and Early Miocene (before ∼16.3 Ma) and thereafter uniform stretch in a smaller rate. The northern and middle basin extended intensely earlier during 38.6–23.3 Ma, while the southern basin was mainly stretched during 23.3–16.3 Ma. The basin formation and development are related to alternating sinistral to dextral strike‐slip motions along the Wanan Fault Zone. The dominant dynamics may be caused by the seafloor spreading of the South China Sea and the its peripheral plate interaction. The basin tectonic evolution is divided into five phases: initial rifting, main rifting, rift‐drift transition, structural inversion, and thermal subsidence.
Structural Characteristics of the Andaman Forearc Inferred from Interpretation of Multichannel Seismic Reflection Data
Authors: GOLI Anitha , PANDEY Dhananjai K.
Published: August 2014

The Andaman Forearc Basin (AFB) is asymmetric in configuration and filled with a ∼6 km‐thick pile of Neogene to Recent sediments (∼4 s in two‐way travel time: TWT) with distinct zonation. It shows gradual thinning up to ∼3 km (0.8 s in TWT) towards the eastern end with a seabed gradient of 1:30. Thick deformed sediments ∼2 s (TWT) of the Outerarc are associated with intense faulting and occasional folding caused by recent tectonics. Development of a series of faults within the upwarped sedimentary column of Oligocene top to Recent is observed with a rotated fault block. These features are manifestations of Recent igneous intrusion, and reveal the presence of a mild N–S compressional regime. Its effect on the AFB resulted in further uplift of sediments, which can now be seen as the Invisible Bank. Forward gravity modelling supporting our seismic interpretation reveals that it is associated with igneous intrusion from the Moho (∼9 km depth), and also suggests that continental crust underlies the AFB. Strong Bottom Simulating Reflector (BSR)‐like features in the Miocene sediments of Outerarc and Forearc basin at a depth of 0.6 s below the seabed suggest the inferred probable occurrence of gas hydrates in the AFB.
Discrimination of Different Erosion Levels of Porphyry Cu Deposits using ASTER Image Processing in Eastern Iran: a Case Study in the Maherabad, Shadan, and Chah Shaljami Areas
Authors: KARIMPOUR Mohammad Hassan , MAZHARI Nazi , SHAFAROUDI Azadeh Malekzadeh
Published: August 2014

The Lut block, eastern Iran, is one of the most extensive Cenozoic magmatic rocks, that show suitable targets for porphyry Cu‐Au and high‐sulfidation epithermal Au related to porphyry Cu‐Au mineralization. In this study, Advanced Spaceborne Thermal Emission and Reflection Radiometer (ASTER) was used to identify different erosion levels of three porphyry Cu deposits, including Maherabad, Shadan, and Chah Shalj ami, located in the Lut block volcanic‐plutonic belt. Alteration minerals, including kaolinite, dickite, alunite, jarosite, epidote, chlorite, montmorillonite, muscovite, biotite, orthoclase, gypsum, and quartz, are selected to map different alteration zones and erosion levels. Distributions of end‐members are mapped by using the SAM and MTMF in VNIR and SWIR of ASTER bands and the results are evaluated against the field studies. For some end‐members, the results of SAM processing are more reliable compared to the MTMF because the latter looses field spectra. The use of angle threshold in the SAM, and MF‐score and infeasibility value in the MTMF or low abundance of some end‐members, and finally comparison of output images of spectral processing show good correlation with alteration maps. Differentiation and explanation of various erosion levels of porphyry Cu deposits are done successfully by using the ASTER sensor data.
Dead before detection: addressing the effects of left truncation on survival estimation and ecological inference for neonates
Authors: Gilbert Sophie L. , Lindberg Mark S. , Hundertmark Kris J. , Person David K.
Published: August 2014

Neonate survival is a key life history trait, yet remains challenging to measure in wild populations because neonates can be difficult to capture at birth. Estimates of survival from neonates that are opportunistically captured might be inaccurate because some individuals die before sampling, resulting in data that are left truncated. The resulting overestimation of survival rates can further affect ecological inference through biased estimates of covariate effects in survival models, yet is not addressed in most studies of animal survival. Here, we quantify the effects of left truncation on survival estimates and subsequent ecological inference.

Vaginal implant transmitters (VITs) enable capture of ungulates at birth, yielding data without left truncation. The effects of left truncation on survival estimation were quantified using age‐dependent survival models for VIT and opportunistically captured neonatal deer. Differences in daily survival rates (DSRs) and cumulative survival probability were calculated for the first 70 days of life. In addition, left truncation was simulated by removing fawns that died during the first 1 or 2 days of life from the VIT‐caught sample, isolating the effect of left truncation.

Cumulative probability of survival during the first 70 days of life was overestimated by 7–23% for fawns caught opportunistically compared with those caught by VIT, depending on model design. Differences in DSRs were large at age 1 day, but had converged by age 30 days. Simulated left truncation resulted in overestimates of survival of up to 31%. Model selection and covariate coefficients were strongly affected by left truncation, producing spurious ecological inference, including changes to sign and/or magnitude of inferred effects of all covariates.

We recommend (i) every effort be made to capture neonates; (ii) consistent capture methods, using at least in part non‐truncating techniques, be implemented across years and study areas; and (iii) exclusion of left‐truncated data from survival estimates until DSRs converge with those calculated from non‐truncated data. This work emphasizes the importance of accounting for left truncation in survival estimation for any species with strong age‐dependent survival in order to prevent biased conclusions produced by sampling method rather than true ecological effects.
mizer: an R package for multispecies, trait‐based and community size spectrum ecological modelling
Authors: Scott Finlay , Blanchard Julia L. , Andersen Ken H.
Published: August 2014

Size spectrum ecological models are representations of a community of individuals which grow and change trophic level. A key emergent feature of these models is the size spectrum; the total abundance of all individuals that scales negatively with size. The models we focus on are designed to capture fish community dynamics useful for assessing the community impacts of fishing.

We present mizer, an R package for implementing dynamic size spectrum ecological models of an entire aquatic community subject to fishing. Multiple fishing gears can be defined and fishing mortality can change through time making it possible to simulate a range of exploitation strategies and management options.

mizer implements three versions of the size spectrum modelling framework: the community model, where individuals are only characterized by their size; the trait‐based model, where individuals are further characterized by their asymptotic size; and the multispecies model where additional trait differences are resolved.

A range of plot, community indicator and summary methods are available to inspect the results of the simulations.
Association Between Nursing Diagnoses and Socioeconomic/Clinical Characteristics of Patients on Hemodialysis
Authors: de Queiroz Frazão Cecília Maria Farias , de Sá Jéssica Dantas , de Paiva Maria das Graças Mariano Nunes , de Carvalho Lira Ana Luisa Brandão , de Oliveira Lopes Marcos Venícios , Enders Bertha Cruz
Published: August 2014

Purpose

To analyze the association between nursing diagnoses and socioeconomic/clinical characteristics of patients on hemodialysis.

Methods

Cross‐sectional study conducted by means of interview and physical examination of 178 patients consecutively selected.

Findings

Nursing diagnoses within the NANDA‐I domains of health promotion, nutrition, activity/rest, perception/cognition, sexuality, safety/protection, and comfort presented statistically significant association with the socioeconomic/clinical data of age, education, sex, marital status, and duration of the chronic renal disease and hemodialysis.

Conclusion

The nursing diagnoses in this population may be influenced by the socioeconomic/clinical data.

Implications for Nursing Practice

The results suggest an opportunity for improved nursing intervention in this community.
CD4+ Foxp3+Regulatory T Cells in Autoimmune Orchitis: Phenotypic and Functional Characterization
Authors: Jacobo Patricia , Guazzone Vanesa A. , Pérez Cecilia V. , Lustig Livia
Published: August 2014

Problem

The phenotype and function of regulatory T (Treg) cells in rats with experimental autoimmune orchitis (EAO) was evaluated.

Method of study

Distribution of Treg cells in draining lymph nodes from the testis (TLN) and from the site of immunization (ILN) was analysed by immunohistochemistry. The number, phenotype and proliferative response (5‐bromo‐2′‐deoxyuridine incorporation) of Treg cells were evaluated by flow cytometry and Treg cell suppressive activity by in vitro experiments. TGF‐β expression was evaluated by immunofluorescence.

Results

Absolute numbers of Treg cells and BrdU+ Treg cells were increased in LN from experimental compared to normal and control rats. These cells displayed a CD45RC−, CD62L−, Helios+ phenotype. CD4+ CD25bright T cells from TLN of experimental rats were able to suppress T cell‐proliferation more efficiently than those derived from normal and control rats. Cells isolated from TLN and ILN expressed TGF‐β.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that Treg cells with a memory/activated phenotype proliferate extensively in the inflamed testis and LN of rats with EAO exhibiting an enhanced suppressive capacity. TGF‐β may be involved in their suppressive mechanism.
Prognostic factors in children with acute myeloid leukaemia and excellent response to remission induction therapy
Authors: Karol Seth E. , Coustan‐Smith Elaine , Cao Xueyuan , Shurtleff Sheila A. , Raimondi Susana C. , Choi John K. , Ribeiro Raul C. , Dahl Gary V , Bowman William Paul , Taub Jeffrey W. , Degar Barbara , Leung Wing , Downing James R. , Pui Ching‐Hon , Rubnitz Jeffrey E. , Campana Dario , Inaba Hiroto
Published: August 2014

Minimal residual disease (MRD) is a strong prognostic factor in children and adolescents with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) but nearly one‐quarter of patients who achieve MRD‐negative status still relapse. The adverse prognostic factors among MRD‐negative patients remain unknown. We analysed the AML02 study cohort to identify demographic and genetic prognostic factors. Among the presenting features, certain 11q23 abnormalities, such as t(6;11) and t(10;11), acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia without the t(1;22), and age ≥10 years were associated with inferior outcome in patients who had MRD‐negative status after either remission induction I or II. By contrast, those with rearrangement of CBF genes had superior outcome. Our study identifies patient populations for whom close post‐remission MRD monitoring to detect and treat emerging relapse and adjustment in treatment intensity might be indicated.
Is it safe to insert a testicular prosthesis at the time of radical orchidectomy for testis cancer: an audit of 904 men undergoing radical orchidectomy
Authors: Robinson Richard , Tait Campbell D. , Clarke Noel W. , Ramani Vijay A.C.
Published: August 2014

Objective

To compare the complication rate associated with synchronous prosthesis insertion at the time of radical orchidectomy with orchidectomy alone.

Patient and Methods

All men undergoing radical orchidectomy for testis cancer in the North West Region of England between April 1999 to July 2005 and November 2007 to November 2009 were included. Data on postoperative complications, length of stay (LOS), re‐admission rate and return to theatre rate were collected.

Results

In all, 904 men [median (range) age 35 (14–88) years], underwent a radical orchidectomy during the study period and 413 (46.7%) were offered a prosthesis, of whom 55.2% chose to receive one. Those offered a prosthesis were significantly younger (P < 0.001), with a median age of 33 vs 37 years. There was no significant difference between the groups for LOS (P = 0.387), hospital re‐admission rates (P = 0.539) or return to theatre rate (P = 0.999). In all, 33/885 patients were readmitted ≤30 days of orchidectomy, with one of 236 prosthesis patients requiring prosthesis removal (0.4%). Older age at orchidectomy was associated with an increased risk of 30‐day hospital re‐admission (odds ratio 1.032, P = 0.016).

Conclusions

Concurrent insertion of a testicular prosthesis does not increase the complication rate of radical orchidectomy as determined by LOS, re‐admission or the need for further surgery. Prosthesis insertion at the time of orchidectomy for testis cancer is safe and concerns about increased complications should not constrain the offer of testicular prosthesis insertion concurrently with primary surgery.
Modulation of K2P2.1 and K2P10.1 K+ channel sensitivity to carvedilol by alternative mRNA translation initiation
Authors: Kisselbach J , Seyler C , Schweizer P A , Gerstberger R , Becker R , Katus H A , Thomas D
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose

The β‐receptor antagonist carvedilol blocks a range of ion channels. K2P2.1 (TREK1) and K2P10.1 (TREK2) channels are expressed in the heart and regulated by alternative translation initiation (ATI) of their mRNA, producing functionally distinct channel variants. The first objective was to investigate acute effects of carvedilol on human K2P2.1 and K2P10.1 channels. Second, we sought to study ATI‐dependent modulation of K2P K+ current sensitivity to carvedilol.

Experimental Approach

Using standard electrophysiological techniques, we recorded currents from wild‐type and mutant K2P2.1 and K2P10.1 channels in Xenopus oocytes and HEK 293 cells.

Key Results

Carvedilol concentration‐dependently inhibited K2P2.1 channels (IC50,oocytes = 20.3 μM; IC50,HEK = 1.6 μM) and this inhibition was frequency‐independent. When K2P2.1 isoforms generated by ATI were studied separately in oocytes, the IC50 value for carvedilol inhibition of full‐length channels (16.5 μM) was almost 5‐fold less than that for the truncated channel variant (IC50 = 79.0 μM). Similarly, the related K2P10.1 channels were blocked by carvedilol (IC50,oocytes = 24.0 μM; IC50,HEK = 7.6 μM) and subject to ATI‐dependent modulation of drug sensitivity.

Conclusions and Implications

Carvedilol targets K2P2.1 and K2P10.1 K+ channels. This previously unrecognized mechanism supports a general role of cardiac K2P channels as antiarrhythmic drug targets. Furthermore, the work reveals that the sensitivity of the cardiac ion channels K2P2.1 and K2P10.1 to block was modulated by alternative mRNA translation initiation.
RETRACTED: A non‐erythropoietic peptide derivative of erythropoietin decreases susceptibility to diet‐induced insulin resistance in mice
Authors: Collino M , Benetti E , Rogazzo M , Chiazza F , Mastrocola R , Nigro D , Cutrin J C , Aragno M , Fantozzi R , Minetto M A , Thiemermann C
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose

The haematopoietic activity of erythropoietin (EPO) is mediated by the classic EPO receptor (EpoR) homodimer, whereas tissue‐protective effects are mediated by a heterocomplex between EpoR and the β‐common receptor (βcR). Here, we investigated the effects of a novel, selective ligand of this heterocomplex – pyroglutamate helix B surface peptide (pHBSP) – in mice fed a diet enriched in sugars and saturated fats.

Experimental Approach

Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a high‐fat high‐sucrose diet (HFHS) for 22 weeks. pHBSP (30 μg·kg−1 s.c.) was administered for the last 11 weeks. Biochemical assays, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations and Western blotting were performed on serum and target organs (liver, kidney and skeletal muscle).

Key Results

Mice fed with HFHS diet exhibited insulin resistance, hyperlipidaemia, hepatic lipid accumulation and kidney dysfunction. In gastrocnemius muscle, HFHS impaired the insulin signalling pathway and reduced membrane translocation of glucose transporter type 4 and glycogen content. Treatment with pHBSP ameliorated renal function, reduced hepatic lipid deposition, and normalized serum glucose and lipid profiles. These effects were associated with an improvement in insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. Diet‐induced overproduction of the myokines IL‐6 and fibroblast growth factor‐21 were attenuated by pHBSP and, most importantly, pHBSP markedly enhanced mitochondrial biogenesis in skeletal muscle.

Conclusions and Implications

Chronic treatment of mice with an EPO derivative, devoid of haematopoietic effects, improved metabolic abnormalities induced by a high‐fat high‐sucrose diet, by affecting several levels of the insulin signalling and inflammatory cascades within skeletal muscle, while enhancing mitochondrial biogenesis.
In vitro, in vivo and ex vivo characterization of ibrutinib: a potent inhibitor of the efflux function of the transporter MRP1
Authors: Zhang Hui , Patel Atish , Ma Shao‐Lin , Li Xiao Jie , Zhang Yun‐Kai , Yang Pei‐Qi , Kathawala Rishil J , Wang Yi‐Jun , Anreddy Nagaraju , Fu Li‐Wu , Chen Zhe‐Sheng
Published: August 2014

Background and Purpose

The transporter, multidrug resistance protein 1 (MRP1, ABCC1), plays a critical role in the development of multidrug resistance (MDR). Ibrutinib is an inhibitor of Bruton's tyrosine kinase. Here we investigated the reversal effect of ibrutinib on MRP1‐mediated MDR.

Experimental Approach

Cytotoxicity was determined by MTT assay. The expression of protein was detected by Western blot. RT‐PCR and Q‐PCR were performed to detect the expression of MRP1 mRNA. The intracellular accumulation and efflux of substrates for MRP1 were measured by scintillation counter and flow cytometry. HEK293/MRP1 cell xenografts in nude mice were established to study the effects of ibrutinib in vivo.

Key Results

Ibrutinib significantly enhanced the cytotoxicity of MRP1 substrates in HEK293/MRP1 and HL60/Adr cells overexpressing MRP1. Furthermore, ibrutinib increased the accumulation of substrates in these MRP1‐overexpressing cells by inhibiting the drug efflux function of MRP1. However, mRNA and protein expression of MRP1 remained unaltered after treatment with ibrutinib in MRP1‐overexpressing cells. In vivo, ibrutinib enhanced the efficacy of vincristine to inhibit the growth of HEK293/MRP1 tumour xenografts in nude mice. Importantly, ibrutinib also enhances the cytotoxicity of vincristine in primary cultures of leukaemia blasts, derived from patients.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results indicated that ibrutinib significantly increased the efficacy of the chemotherapeutic agents which were MRP1 substrates, in MRP1‐overexpressing cells, in vitro, in vivo and ex vivo. These findings will lead to further studies on the effects of a combination of ibrutinib with chemotherapeutic agents in cancer patients overexpressing MRP1.
Managing Intellectual Capital in Italian Manufacturing SMEs
Authors: Crema Maria , Verbano Chiara
Published: August 2014

The purpose of the paper is to provide an operative framework to measure intellectual capital (IC) in SMEs and to apply it to the Italian manufacturing context. A second aim is to profile the level and the structure of IC in these firms, identifying different clusters with diverse IC profile and analysing the impact of IC on firm performance. A survey was conducted in the Italian manufacturing context. After a descriptive analysis revealing the level of IC components, cluster analysis was executed for IC profiling, while multiple linear regression models were developed to analyse the relationship between IC and firm performance. A heterogeneous IC structure emerged and three clusters were obtained and described. A positive relationship between IC components and firm performance was demonstrated. This research contributes to measuring IC in manufacturing SMEs by providing an operative integrated framework, to understand its structure and level and its effect on firm success. Managers of SMEs can draw guidelines for IC evaluation to develop internal auditing systems, to communicate adequately IC value to any stakeholders and to support decisions in managing their IC, thereby maximizing firm performance.
Organizational Improvisation: From the Constraint of Strict Tempo to the Power of the Avant‐Garde
Authors: Pina e Cunha Miguel , Clegg Stewart , Rego Arménio , Neves Pedro
Published: August 2014

Improvisation is too simple a name for a complex class of processes. The improvisational label, in fact, covers very different processes, from impromptu, ad‐libbed responses to carefully designed organizational choreographies. We discuss different forms of organizational improvisation (ad‐hoc, covert, provocative and managed), and trace their roots in the discipline of organization theory, in order to promote a granular and power‐sensitive understanding of improvisation in organizations.
Parent perceptions of managing child behavioural side‐effects of cancer treatment: a qualitative study
Authors: Williams L. K. , McCarthy M. C.
Published: August 2014

Background

Very little research has examined the role of parenting in managing behavioural side‐effects of cancer treatment. The purpose of this paper was to explore parent perceptions of (a) parenting in the context of childhood cancer; (b) the parenting strategies used in the context of managing child behavioural side‐effects of cancer treatment; and (c) the perceived impact that cancer‐specific parenting strategies have on child behaviour.

Methods

Participants were 15 mothers of children aged 2–6 years in the maintenance phase of treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia at the Royal Children's Hospital Children's Cancer Centre, Melbourne, Australia. Mothers participated in a one‐on‐one semi‐structured telephone interview using an interview guide which included questions on parenting in the context of childhood cancer, specifically in relation to behavioural side‐effects (problems with behaviour, sleep and eating) and any perceived impact cancer‐specific parenting may have on the ill child.

Results

Many parents reported that following their child's cancer diagnosis, they had to implement a suite of ‘new’ strategies that ‘pre‐diagnosis’ were used only in moderation, if at all. The most salient theme that emerged was parents' perception that their parenting became more lax since their child's diagnosis. Parents further reported specific parenting strategies for each of the main child behavioural side‐effects of cancer treatment.

Conclusion

Data from the current qualitative exploratory study highlight the role of specific parenting strategies in managing or assisting child behavioural side‐effects of cancer treatment. Further quantitative research is needed to more fully examine the association between parenting and child behavioural outcomes in order to develop modifiable approaches to improving child behavioural side‐effects in a paediatric oncology context.
Regulation of cannabinoid receptor gene expression and endocannabinoid levels in lymphocyte subsets by interferon-β: a longitudinal study in multiple sclerosis patients
Authors: Sánchez López A J , Román-Vega L , Ramil Tojeiro E , Giuffrida A , García-Merino A
Published: August 2014

Evidence suggests the involvement of the cannabinoid system in the pathogenesis of multiple sclerosis (MS). We studied cannabinoid receptor (CB)1 and CB2 receptor gene expression in B, natural killer (NK) and T cells from MS patients before and after 1 year of interferon beta therapy, and compared these levels to those of healthy controls. We also measured the production of the endocannabinoids anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG) and the gene expression of the endocannabinoid-degrading enzyme fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH) in these cells. Prior to interferon therapy, MS patients showed significantly elevated CB2 expression in B cells, but not in T or NK cells. These levels decreased gradually within 6 months to 1 year of interferon treatment. CB1 expression was elevated in all cell subsets, but only reached statistical significance in T cells; all levels decreased progressively over time. Before treatment, AEA but not 2-AG levels were significantly elevated in the three cell populations; after 1 year of treatment, all values decreased to control levels. The expression of FAAH was unchanged. The different expression of cannabinoid receptor genes and the increased level of AEA in lymphocytes point to a possible role of the cannabinoid system in MS immune response and its modulation by interferon.
The use of environmental DNA in invasive species surveillance of the Great Lakes commercial bait trade
Authors: Nathan Lucas R. , Jerde Christopher L. , Budny Michelle L. , Mahon Andrew R.
Published: August 2014

Over 180 non‐native species have been introduced in the Laurentian Great Lakes region, many posing threats to native species and ecosystem functioning. One potential pathway for introductions is the commercial bait trade; unknowing or unconcerned anglers commonly release unused bait into aquatic systems. Previous surveillance efforts of this pathway relied on visual inspection of bait stocks in retail shops, which can be time and cost prohibitive and requires a trained individual that can rapidly and accurately identify cryptic species. Environmental DNA (eDNA) surveillance, a molecular tool that has been used for surveillance in aquatic environments, can be used to efficiently detect species at low abundances. We collected and analyzed 576 eDNA samples from 525 retail bait shops throughout the Laurentian Great Lake states. We used eDNA techniques to screen samples for multiple aquatic invasive species (AIS) that could be transported in the bait trade, including bighead (Hypophthalmichthys nobilis) and silver carp (H. molitrix), round goby (Neogobius melanostomus), tubenose goby (Proterorhinus marmoratus), Eurasian rudd (Scardinius erythrophthalmus), and goldfish (Carassius auratus). Twenty‐seven samples were positive for at least one target species (4.7% of samples), and all target species were found at least once, except bighead carp. Despite current regulations, the bait trade remains a potential pathway for invasive species introductions in the Great Lakes region. Alterations to existing management strategies regarding the collection, transportation, and use of live bait are warranted, including new and updated regulations, to prevent future introductions of invasive species in the Great Lakes via the bait trade.

El Uso del ADN Ambiental en la Vigilancia de Especies Invasoras del Mercado de Carnada Comercial de los Grandes Lagos
Optimal fire histories for biodiversity conservation
Authors: Kelly Luke T. , Bennett Andrew F. , Clarke Michael F. , McCarthy Michael A.
Published: August 2014

Fire is used as a management tool for biodiversity conservation worldwide. A common objective is to avoid population extinctions due to inappropriate fire regimes. However, in many ecosystems, it is unclear what mix of fire histories will achieve this goal. We determined the optimal fire history of a given area for biological conservation with a method that links tools from 3 fields of research: species distribution modeling, composite indices of biodiversity, and decision science. We based our case study on extensive field surveys of birds, reptiles, and mammals in fire‐prone semi‐arid Australia. First, we developed statistical models of species’ responses to fire history. Second, we determined the optimal allocation of successional states in a given area, based on the geometric mean of species relative abundance. Finally, we showed how conservation targets based on this index can be incorporated into a decision‐making framework for fire management. Pyrodiversity per se did not necessarily promote vertebrate biodiversity. Maximizing pyrodiversity by having an even allocation of successional states did not maximize the geometric mean abundance of bird species. Older vegetation was disproportionately important for the conservation of birds, reptiles, and small mammals. Because our method defines fire management objectives based on the habitat requirements of multiple species in the community, it could be used widely to maximize biodiversity in fire‐prone ecosystems.

Historiales de Incendios Óptimos para la Conservación de la Biodiversidad
Responses to static stretching are dependent on stretch intensity and duration
Authors: Freitas Sandro R. , Vilarinho Daniel , Vaz João Rocha , Bruno Paula M. , Costa Pablo B. , Mil‐homens Pedro
Published: August 2014

Information regarding the effects of stretching intensity on the joint torque–angle response is scarce. The present study examined the effects of three static stretching protocols with different intensities and durations on the passive knee extension torque–angle response of seventeen male participants (age ± SD: 23·9 ± 3·6 years, height: 177·0 ± 7·2 cm, BMI: 22·47 ± 1·95 kg·m2). The stretching intensity was determined according to the maximal tolerable torque of the first repetition: fifty per cent (P50), seventy‐five per cent (P75) and the maximum intensity without pain (P100). Five repetitions were performed for each protocol. The stretch duration of each repetition was 90, 135 and 180 s for P100, P75 and P50, respectively. The rest period between repetitions was 30 s. Passive torque at a given angle, angle, stress relaxation, area under the curve, surface electromyography activity and visual analogue scale score were compared. The significant (P<0·05) results found were as follows: (i) the P50 and P75 did not increase the angle and passive peak torque outcomes, despite more time under stretch; (ii) only the P100 increased the angle and passive peak torque outcomes; (iii) the perception of stretching intensity mainly changed depending on knee angle changes, and not passive torque; (iv) the P50 induced a higher passive torque decrease; (v) when protocols were compared for the same time under stretch, the torque decrease was similar; (vi) the change in torque–angle curve shape was different depending on the stretching protocol. In conclusion, higher stretch duration seems to be a crucial factor for passive torque decrease and higher stretch intensity for maximum angle increase.
Alienated Politics: Labour Insurgency and the Paternalistic State in China
Authors: Friedman Eli
Published: August 2014

Is there a labour movement in China? This contribution argues that China does not have a labour movement, but that contestation between workers, state and capital is best characterized as a form of ‘alienated politics’. Widespread worker resistance is highly effective at the level of the firm because of its ability to inflict losses on capital and disrupt public order. But authoritarian politics in China prevent workers from formulating political demands. Despite the spectacular repressive capacity of the state, the central government has in fact responded to highly localized resistance by passing generally pro‐labour legislation over the past decade. The consequence of this is that worker unrest has produced important political shifts at the national level, but these have come about without workers’ direct involvement in the process. In other words, workers are alienated from the political object that they themselves have produced. As a consequence, when the state intervenes in labour politics, it appears to be doing so of its own accord, i.e. paternalistically. This framework helps us to understand how worker unrest in China has become highly antagonistic towards employers and the local state, while maintaining the stability of the system as a whole.
Association between motor functioning and leisure participation of children with physical disability: an integrative review
Authors: Kanagasabai Parimala S , Mulligan Hilda , Mirfin‐Veitch Brigit , Hale Leigh A
Published: August 2014

Aim

The aim of this integrative review is to synthesize the evidence of association between motor functioning and leisure participation of children with physical disability.

Method

We conducted a systematic electronic search of key databases from the period 1 January 2001 to 30 April 2014 using relevant keywords. The Mixed Method Appraisal Tool was used to assess the quality of the qualitative and quantitative studies included and carried out in children with physical disability aged 6 to 12 years. We synthesized and compared information from both type of studies to identify the extent, and way by which, motor functioning influences leisure participation.

Results

Thirty‐five studies were included and analyzed for this review. Twenty‐four studies used quantitative and 11 studies used qualitative methodology. We identified the association between motor functioning and six dimensions of participation including diversity, intensity, context, preferences, enjoyment and quality of participation. Motor functioning was found to have a weak to moderate association with involvement in specific leisure activity types and dimensions. We developed a conceptual framework to illustrate the influence of motor functioning on leisure participation from this review.

Interpretation

Whether motor functioning poses a barrier to leisure participation for children with physical disability appears to depend on the functional movement required to participate in a particular leisure activity.
Dental students' peer assessment: a prospective pilot study
Authors: Tricio J. , Woolford M. , Thomas M. , Lewis‐Greene H. , Georghiou L. , Andiappan M. , Escudier M.
Published: August 2014

Introduction

Peer assessment is increasingly used in health education. The aims of this study were to evaluate the reliability, accuracy, educational impact and student's perceptions of undergraduate pre‐clinical and clinical dental students' structured and prospective Peer assessment and peer feedback protocol.

Materials and methods

Two Direct Observation of Procedural Skills (DOPS) forms were modified for use in pre‐clinical and clinical peer assessment. Ten year two dental students working in a phantom‐heads skills laboratory and 16‐year five dental students attending a comprehensive care clinic piloted both peer DOPS forms. After training, pairs of students observed, assessed and provided immediate feedback to each other using their respective peer DOPS forms as frameworks. At the end of the 3‐month study period, students anonymously provided their perceptions of the protocol.

Results

Year 2 and year 5 students completed 57 and 104 peer DOPS forms, respectively. The generalizability coefficient was 0.62 for year 2 (six encounters) and 0.67 for year 5 (seven encounters). Both groups were able to differentiate amongst peer‐assessed domains and so detect improvement in peers' performance over time. Peer DOPS scores of both groups showed a positive correlation with their mean end‐of‐year examination marks (r ≥ 0.505, P ≥ 0.051) although this was not statistically significant. There was no difference (P ≥ 0.094) between the end‐of‐year examination marks of the participating students and the rest of their respective classes. The vast majority of both groups expressed positive perceptions of the piloted protocol.

Discussion

There are no data in the literature on the prospective use of peer assessment in the dental undergraduate setting. In the current study, both pre‐clinical and clinical students demonstrated the ability to identify those domains where peers performed better, as well as those which needed improvement. Despite no observable educational impact, most students reported positive perceptions of the peer DOPS protocol.

Conclusions

The results of this pilot study support the need for and the potential benefit of a larger‐ and longer‐term follow‐up study utilising the protocol.
The potential for indirect effects between co‐flowering plants via shared pollinators depends on resource abundance, accessibility and relatedness
Authors: Carvalheiro Luísa Gigante , Biesmeijer Jacobus Christiaan , Benadi Gita , Fründ Jochen , Stang Martina , Bartomeus Ignasi , Kaiser‐Bunbury Christopher N. , Baude Mathilde , Gomes Sofia I. F. , Merckx Vincent , Baldock Katherine C. R. , Bennett Andrew T. D. , Boada Ruth , Bommarco Riccardo , Cartar Ralph , Chacoff Natacha , Dänhardt Juliana , Dicks Lynn V. , Dormann Carsten F. , Ekroos Johan , Henson Kate S.E. , Holzschuh Andrea , Junker Robert R. , Lopezaraiza‐Mikel Martha , Memmott Jane , Montero‐Castaño Ana , Nelson Isabel L. , Petanidou Theodora , Power Eileen F. , Rundlöf Maj , Smith Henrik G. , Stout Jane C. , Temitope Kehinde , Tscharntke Teja , Tscheulin Thomas , Vilà Montserrat , Kunin William E.
Published: August 2014

Co‐flowering plant species commonly share flower visitors, and thus have the potential to influence each other's pollination. In this study we analysed 750 quantitative plant–pollinator networks from 28 studies representing diverse biomes worldwide. We show that the potential for one plant species to influence another indirectly via shared pollinators was greater for plants whose resources were more abundant (higher floral unit number and nectar sugar content) and more accessible. The potential indirect influence was also stronger between phylogenetically closer plant species and was independent of plant geographic origin (native vs. non‐native). The positive effect of nectar sugar content and phylogenetic proximity was much more accentuated for bees than for other groups. Consequently, the impact of these factors depends on the pollination mode of plants, e.g. bee or fly pollinated. Our findings may help predict which plant species have the greatest importance in the functioning of plant–pollination networks.