bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Macro drivers of Australian housing affordability, 1985-2010
Authors: Worthington Andrew , Higgs Helen
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– Model the drivers of Australian housing affordability and forecast equilibrium affordability. The paper aims to discuss these issues.

Design/methodology/approach

– Uses autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) approach to model housing affordability measured by the Housing Industry Association's Housing Affordability Index (HAI) and the housing price-earnings multiplier (HPE). Six sets of explanatory variables, including housing finance, housing construction activity and costs, economic growth, population, alternative investments and taxation.

Findings

– Primary long-run drivers are housing finance, dwelling approvals and financial assets. Economic and population growth only have a short-run influence, while housing taxation has limited impact in long run. Forecasts indicate long-run HAI equilibrium values of 109 (above the historical minimum of 107) and a HPE of seven (below the recent historical maximum of 8.2).

Research limitations/implications

– Reduced form model encompassing both demand and supply factors involves complicated interpretation given direct and indirect effects on affordability. Analysis at national level ignores regional impacts that may also affect housing affordability.

Practical implications

– The impact of the low rate of new dwelling approvals (public and private sector in the long run and public sector in the short run) points to a persistent structural gap between the demand and supply of housing. Strong economic and population growth often blamed for the worsening of housing affordability, at least in the 2000s, has no impact at the aggregate national level.

Originality/value

– Only known paper to provide quantitative estimates of macro drivers of Australian housing affordability over a long period using alternative measures of relative housing affordability.
Allocation to industry portfolios under Markov switching returns
Authors: Kebabci Tudor Deniz
Published: September 2013

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to examine the effects of parameter uncertainty in the returns process with regime shifts on optimal portfolio choice over the long run for a static buy-and-hold investor who is investing in industry portfolios.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper uses a Markov switching model to model returns on industry portfolios and propose a Gibbs sampling approach to take into account parameter uncertainty. This paper compares the results with a linear benchmark model and estimates without taking into account parameter uncertainty. This paper also checks the predictive power of additional predictive variables.

Findings

– Incorporating parameter uncertainty and taking into account the possible regime shifts in the returns process, this paper finds that such investors can allocate less in the long run to stocks. This holds true for both the NASDAQ portfolio and the individual high tech and manufacturing industry portfolios. Along with regime switching returns, this paper examines dividend yields and Treasury bill rates as potential predictor variables, and conclude that their predictive effect is minimal: the allocation to stocks in the long run is still generally smaller.

Originality/value

– Studying the effect of regime switching behavior in returns on the optimal portfolio choice with parameter uncertainty is our main contribution.
On Marxism, Pragmatism and Critical Urban Studies
Authors: Bridge Gary
Published: September 2013

This article explores the possibilities of philosophical pragmatism for critical theory in urban studies. It points to the philosophical connections between pragmatism and the mainstay of critical theory in urban studies — Marxism. The article suggests how these philosophical roots as well as contemporary developments of pragmatism in social science (and in critical theory) open out the terrain of critical urban studies to make it more pluralist and democratic, theoretically and politically. The article concludes by looking at some of the consequences of this pragmatic turn for critical urban theory.
Solute Removal Capacity of High Cut‐Off Membrane Plasma Separators
Authors: Ohkubo Atsushi , Kurashima Naoki , Nakamura Ayako , Miyamoto Satoko , Iimori Soichiro , Rai Tatemitsu
Published: September 2013

In vitro blood filtration was performed by a closed circuit using high cut‐off membrane plasma separators, EVACURE EC‐2A10 (EC‐2A) and EVACURE EC‐4A10 (EC‐4A). Samples were obtained from sampling sites before the plasma separator, after each plasma separator, and from the ultrafiltrate of each separator. The sieving coefficient (S.C.) of total protein (TP), albumin (Alb), IgG, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), interleukin‐8 (IL‐8), tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), fibrinogen (Fib), antithrombin III (AT‐III), and coagulation factor XIII (FXIII) were calculated. The S.C. of each solute using EC‐2A and EC‐A4 were as follows; TP: 0.25 and 0.56, Alb: 0.32 and 0.73, IgG: 0.16 and 0.50, IL‐6:0.73 and 0.95, IL‐8:0.85 and 0.82, TNF‐α: 1.07 and 0.99, Fib: 0 and 0, FXIII: 0.07 and 0.17, respectively. When compared with the conventional type of membrane plasma separators, EVACURE could efficiently remove cytokines while retaining coagulation factors such as fibrinogen. Moreover, EC‐2A prevented protein loss, whereas EC‐4A could remove approximately 50% of IgG.
Highlighting the Need and Potential for Use of Interdisciplinary Science in Adaptive Environmental Management: The Case of Endangered Upland Swamps in theBlueMountains,NSW,Australia
Authors: KOHLHAGEN TRENT , FRYIRS KIRSTIE , SEMPLE ANNE‐LOUISE
Published: September 2013

TheBlueMountains region ofNewSouthWales, including theWorldHeritage listedBlueMountainsNationalPark, is arguably one ofAustralia's most highly valued and iconic wilderness areas. Common to this region are upland swamps (formally ‘temperate highland peat swamps on sandstone’), which play a vital hydrological role at the headwaters of the river catchments, as well as providing the habitat for an array of flora and fauna species. This paper involves an interdisciplinary examination into the need and potential for adaptive management in theBlueMountains. It uses geomorphic (physical) knowledge of swamp condition and social data about the volunteers who rehabilitate them. Research involved using theRiverStyles river condition framework across 47 swamps and questionnaires and interviews with local rehabilitation volunteers. It is proposed that there is a need and a potential to combine geomorphic understanding with further engagement of community volunteers in order to enable an interdisciplinary approach to adaptive management. Such an approach could result in the effective environmental management of upland swamps in theBlueMountains.
Sex‐biased parasitism of adult spring beetles, Heteronyx dimidiata and Heteronyx crinitus, by Tachinidae in Eucalyptus nitens plantations in Australia
Authors: Walker Paul W , Allen Geoff R
Published: September 2013

Parasitism of adult Heteronyx dimidiata (Erichson) and H. crinitus Blackburn (Scarabaeidae: Melolonthinae), that attack Eucalyptus nitens plantation seedlings in southern Australia, was recorded over 3 years. An undescribed genus of Blondeliini (Tachinidae: Exoristinae) was reared from both scarab species while a Palpostoma sp. (Tachiinae) was reared from H. crinitus. Flies were observed parasitising flying beetles by intercepting them mid‐air. Eggs were laid externally on the exoskeleton, mainly on the dorsum of abdominal tergites. Male H. dimidiata were parasitised significantly more (40%) than female conspecifics (13%) and male or female H. crinitus (both 13%), which was attributed to their greater flight activity searching for mates. Superparasitism was common in both species, particularly in male H. dimidiata (56% of parasitised beetles, up to 22 eggs/beetle), despite evidence that only a single tachinid could complete development in a beetle. Early stages of parasitism in H. dimidiata females did not appear to affect ovarian development nor the ability of beetles to feed on young trees. However, we infer that the tachinids had a significant impact on Heteronyx spp. populations through a reduction in adult beetle longevity and fitness.
The Globular Heads of the C1q Receptor Regulate Apoptosis in Human Extravillous Cytotrophoblast‐derived Transformed Cells via a Mitochondria‐dependent Pathway
Authors: Wang Ying , Guo Shu‐yu , Gu Ping‐qing , Wang Xiao‐man , Sun Ning , Gao Ling‐juan
Published: September 2013

Problem

The receptor for the globular head of human C1q (gC1qR) predominantly localizes to the mitochondrial matrix. gC1qR mediates many biological responses, including growth perturbations, morphological abnormalities and the initiation of apoptosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the relationship between gC1qR expression, mitochondrial dysfunction and the regulation of apoptosis in human extravillous cytotrophoblast (EVCT)‐derived transformed cell lines (HTR‐8/SVneo and HPT‐8).

Method of study

gC1qR expression was examined in human placental villi using real‐time qPCR and Western blot analysis. The apoptotic death of HTR‐8/SVneo and HPT‐8 cells was assessed using flow cytometric analysis. Mitochondrial function was assessed via ROS generation, the amount of cytosolic Ca2+ and changes in the mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm).

Results

The expression of the gC1qR gene was significantly increased in spontaneous abortion samples relative to induced abortion samples. HTR‐8/SVneo and HPT‐8 cells transfected with a gC1qR vector showed upregulation of cellular apoptosis and mitochondrial dysfunction, interestingly, which were abrogated by the addition of metformin. Metformin may protect mitochondrial function.

Conclusion

These data support a mechanism whereby gC1qR induces apoptosis through mitochondria‐dependent pathways in human EVCT‐derived transformed cells.
The ability of bispectral index to detect intra‐operative wakefulness during isoflurane/air anaesthesia, compared with the isolated forearm technique
Authors: Russell I. F.
Published: September 2013

Clinical signs are unreliable for guiding anaesthetic administration and it is suggested that using the bispectral index can improve anaesthetic delivery. In the current study, isoflurane administration was guided to a bispectral index range of 55–60. Intra‐operative responsiveness, as assessed by the isolated forearm technique, was compared with whether the bispectral index predicted/identified a patient's appropriate hand movements in response to commands. Thirty‐four women underwent major gynaecological surgery with isoflurane/air and atracurium. Eleven women responded on 32 occasions with appropriate hand movements to commands given during surgery, of which the bispectral index detected 17 (sensitivity 53%). The bispectral index suggested consciousness 660 times in the absence of any movement responses (specificity 69%). The positive predictive value of the bispectral index was 3%. The median (IQR [range]) bispectral index value associated with an intra‐operative response was significantly lower than that associated with eye opening after surgery: 60 (50–68 [36–83]) vs 77 (75–84 [59–90]), respectively (p = 2.25 × 10−8). Conversely, end‐tidal isoflurane concentration was significantly higher at intra‐operative response than at eye opening: 0.3 (0.3–0.4 [0.2–0.9]) vs 0.2 (0.1–0.2 [0.1–0.3]), respectively (p = 7.36 × 10−8). For patients who responded more than once during surgery, the bispectral index value associated with a response was not constant. No patient had recall for surgery or the taped commands, and only one could remember dreaming (a good dream). Titrating isoflurane to target a bispectral index range of 55–60 may result in an unacceptable number of patients who are conscious during surgery (albeit without recall).
Porokeratosis ptychotropica: a rare and evolving variant of porokeratosis
Authors: Yeo Jennifer , Winhoven Sandra , Tallon Ben
Published: September 2013

Porokeratosis ptychotropica represents a rare and under‐recognized variant of porokeratosis. There are also alternative descriptions for this disorder in the literature. Since its original description in 1995, additional characteristic features have been showed in case reports published in the literature. These cumulative reports, although still limited in numbers, have helped to further shape and define this entity. A case report and review of published literature on this unusual entity are presented. The specific combination of clinical, morphological and histopathological characteristics that can facilitate recognition of the disorder is discussed. There has been a call for uniformity in terminology and a suggestion for alternative terminology has been made. However, we discuss why the earlier term, porokeratosis ptychotropica, is still preferred.
Dermal changes in superficial basal cell carcinoma, melanoma in situ and actinic keratosis and their implications
Authors: Kazlouskaya Viktoryia , Malhotra Saurabh , Navarro Raquel , Wu Karen Nguyen , Shvartsbeyn Marianna , Shengli Chen , Gui Jiang , Elston Dirk M.
Published: September 2013

Background

Basal cell carcinoma (BCC) has a characteristic stroma, but less is known about the dermal characteristics associated with melanoma in situ (MIS) and actinic keratosis (AK).

Materials and methods

Dermal changes were studied in 301 specimens of AK, BCC and MIS. Subsequently, blinded images of dermal changes from 90 randomly selected cases of those entities were used to assess the predictive value of the dermal changes. Agreement with the final diagnosis was calculated using kappa coefficient (κ).

Results

Fibromyxoid stroma was present in 82% of BCC cases; fibrous stroma was seen in 25% of BCC, 58% of MIS and 35.6% of AK specimens (p < 0.05). A lichenoid inflammatory infiltrate was frequently associated with AK and a perifollicular infiltrate with periadnexal fibrosis with MIS. Blinded evaluation of images of the dermal changes associated with the tumors yielded the correct diagnosis in (54.4, 41.1 and 27.8%; average 41.2%) by the three appraisers. Coefficient of agreement in blinded imaged evaluation with the actual diagnosis was higher in the BCC and MIS compared with AK (κ = 0.37, p = 0.0001; κ = 0.2, p = 0.0005 and κ = −0.06, p = 0.84, respectively).

Conclusion

Dermal features may be helpful in predicting the correct diagnosis when tumor is not visible.
Hürthle cell presence alters the distribution and outcome of categories in the Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytopathology
Authors: Yazgan A. , Balci S. , Dincer N. , Kiyak G. , Tuzun D. , Ersoy R. , Cakir B. , Guler G.
Published: September 2013

Objectives

We aimed to determine whether the presence of Hürthle cells altered the distribution of categories in the Bethesda system for reporting thyroid cytopathology, or the expected neoplastic and malignant outcome.

Methods

Fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytology reports of Hürthle cells in a 2‐year period were evaluated. The distribution of Bethesda system categories and the outcome at partial or complete thyroidectomy were compared for FNAs with and without Hürthle cells.

Results

Of 895 adequate FNAs with Hürthle cells, 764 (85.4%) were classified as benign, 86 (9.6%) as atypia of undetermined significance/follicular lesion of undetermined significance (AUS/FLUS), 32 (3.6%) as follicular neoplasm/suspicious for follicular neoplasm (FN/SFN), 12 (1.3%) as suspicious for malignancy (SFM) and one (0.1%) as malignant. Of 10 359 adequate FNAs without Hürthle cells, 9707 (93.7%) were classified as benign, 412 (4.0%) as AUS/FLUS, 77 (0.7%) as FN/SFN, 93 (0.9%) as SFM and 70 (0.7%) as malignant. The distribution of categories in FNAs with and without Hürthle cells was significantly different (P < 0.001) as a result of a decrease in benign and an increase in AUS/FLUS and FN/SFN categories. Among 128 patients with and 582 without Hürthle cells undergoing surgery, the overall neoplastic and malignancy rates were higher in the former than in the latter group (27.3% versus 14.9%, P < 0.001; 21.1% versus 11.7%, P = 0.003; respectively). Although neoplastic and malignant rates were higher in the group with than without Hürthle cells in all categories, the differences were only significant for a neoplastic outcome of benign cytology (15.1% versus 6.0%, P = 0.0013) and a malignant outcome of FN/SFN cytology (63.6% versus 21.9%, P = 0.0108).

Conclusions

We found that the rates of AUS/FLUS and FN/SFN categories in the Bethesda system were higher when Hürthle cells were present. After surgery, neoplastic and malignant outcomes were significantly higher in the Hürthle cell group.
Promotion of Reading and Early Literacy Skills in Schools: a comparison of three European countries
Authors: Stancel‐Piątak Agnes , Mirazchiyski Plamen , Desa Deana
Published: September 2013

This article gives a short overview based on the EU High Level Group of Experts on Literacy (HLWG) report to address issues and challenges in Europe on improving literacy competencies in schools. Furthermore, an analysis is conducted focusing on the promotion of reading and early literacy skills in schools taking into account psychological and institutional learning conditions in three countries (Denmark, Germany, and France) with different outcomes in PIRLS 2011 (Progress in International Reading Literacy Study). Country comparison is conducted using multiple groups – multilevel structural equation modelling (MG‐MSEM). An important finding is that policy action taken in order to evaluate and improve school effectiveness in each country must address particular needs of its educational system. Suggestions for improving reading achievement in schools are derived from the analysis.
Effects of Early‐Life Experience on Learning Ability in Fruit Flies
Authors: Durisko Zachary , Dukas Reuven
Published: September 2013

Learning and memory require the development, modification and maintenance of brain tissue, which cost time and energy. It may be adaptive for developing animals to adjust such investments based on environmental cues indicating the future utility of learning. The optimal learning ability that maximizes fitness will vary with the degree of complexity or difficulty of the environment, and developing animals may show an adaptive plastic modification of the extent of their learning ability based on early‐life cues of environmental complexity. We tested whether fruit fly larvae reared in a ‘complex’ environment, where they had to search, sample and choose between three foods differing in flavour and bitterness subsequently possessed greater learning abilities than larvae reared in a simple environment with only one food type. We tested learning ability both at the larval stage and in young adults. Our results suggest that, despite theoretical and intuitive appeal, these environmental factors did not affect learning ability.
Selection for reluctance to avoid humans during the domestication of mice
Authors: Goto T. , Tanave A. , Moriwaki K. , Shiroishi T. , Koide T.
Published: September 2013

Many animal species have been domesticated over the course of human history and became tame as a result of domestication. Tameness is a behavioral characteristic with 2 potential components: (1) reluctance to avoid humans and (2) motivation to approach humans. However, the specific behavioral characteristics selected during domestication processes remain to be clarified for many species. To quantify these 2 different components of tameness separately, we established 3 behavioral tests: the ‘active tame’, ‘passive tame’ and ‘stay‐on‐hand’ tests. We subjected genetically diverse mouse strains to these tests, including 10 wild strains (BFM/2Ms, PGN2/Ms, HMI/Ms, BLG2/Ms, NJL/Ms, KJR/Ms, SWN/Ms, CHD/Ms, MSM/Ms and CAST/Ei), a fancy strain (JF1/Ms) and 6 standard laboratory strains (C3H/HeNJcl, CBA/J, BALB/cAnNCrlCrlj, DBA/2JJcl, 129+Ter/SvJcl and C57BL/6JJcl). To analyze the effects of domestication, these 17 strains were divided into 2 groups: domesticated strains (fancy and laboratory strains) and wild strains. Significant differences between strains were observed in all traits, and the calculated estimates of broad‐sense heritability were 0.15–0.72. These results illustrate that tameness in mice is significantly influenced by genetic background. In addition, they clearly show the differences in the features of tameness in domesticated and wild strains. Most of the domesticated strains showed significantly greater reluctance to avoid humans than wild strains, whereas there was no significant difference in the level of motivation to approach humans between these 2 groups. These results might help to clarify the genetic basis of tameness in mice.
Marginal land bioethanol yield potential of four crassulacean acid metabolism candidates (Agave fourcroydes,Agave salmiana,Agave tequilanaandOpuntia ficus‐indica) inAustralia
Authors: Owen Nick A. , Griffiths Howard
Published: September 2013

The Nobel environmental productivity index (EPI) was used as a framework for the development of a predictive geospatial model to estimate the bioethanol yield potential of four crassulacean acid metabolism (CAM) candidates in Australia (Agave fourcroydes,Agave salmiana,Agave tequilana, andOpuntia ficus‐indica). GIS software was used to integrate climate datasets with titratable acidity responses to changes in photosynthetically active radiation (PAR), temperature, and water availability. Additional refinements to Nobel's approach were made to accommodate spatial and temporal fluctuations in soil water potential (ψs) as a function of soil particle size distribution and precipitation, and CO2uptake response to a range of day and night temperatures. A scalar factor for CO2persistence during periods of drought was also introduced to model the capacity of succulent species ofAgaveto buffer against fluctuations in ψs. Macro‐scale criteria were applied to estimate environmentally responsible (ER) bioethanol yield potential on lands that are not suitable for food production. Consideration was given to indigenous vascular plant species richness and endemism scores at ER sites of interest. The highest mean ER bioethanol yield was achieved byA. fourcroydes(μ: 3.89, max. 7.17 kL ha‐1yr‐1) while the highest maximum yield was achieved byA. tequilana(μ: 3.78, max. 7.63 kL ha‐1yr‐1). This research indicated the CAM pathway may produce significant yields (≥≥ 5 kL ha‐1yr‐1) at ER sites totalling 57,700 km2(0.7% land area of Australia).
Fibrosarcoma: a review and update
Authors: Folpe Andrew L
Published: September 2013

Adult fibrosarcoma, defined by the World Health Organization as a ‘malignant neoplasm composed of fibroblasts with variable collagen production and, in classical cases, a “herringbone” architecture’, is a very rare soft tissue sarcoma. Once considered the most common adult sarcoma, the incidence of adult fibrosarcoma has declined dramatically over the past several decades. This is due to (i) evolution in the classification of soft tissue tumours (ii) recognition of clinically, morphologically and genetically distinctive subtypes of fibrosarcoma and (iii) increased understanding of the many other mesenchymal and non‐mesenchymal tumours that may mimic fibrosarcoma. This review article will summarize the current state of our knowledge about strictly defined adult fibrosarcoma and discuss important entities in its differential diagnosis, including various fibrosarcoma variants, monophasic synovial sarcoma and other potential mesenchymal and non‐mesenchymal mimics.
Virological response rates for telaprevir‐based hepatitis C triple therapy in patients with and without HIV coinfection
Authors: Martel‐Laferrière V , Brinkley S , Bichoupan K , Posner S , Stivala A , Perumalswami P , Schiano TD , Sulkowski M , Dieterich DT , Branch AD
Published: September 2013

Objectives

Pegylated‐interferon/ribavirin dual therapy for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has a lower sustained virological response (SVR) rate in HIV/HCV‐coinfected patients than in HCV monoinfected patients, but little is known about the relative effectiveness of teleprevir‐based triple therapy in the two groups.

Methods

Data on 33 coinfected and 116 monoinfected patients were analysed on an intention‐to‐treat basis. SVR12 was defined as undetectable HCV RNA at week 12 post‐end‐of‐treatment, severe anaemia as haemoglobin ≤ 89 g/L or a drop of ≥ 45 g/L, and advanced fibrosis/cirrhosis as Fib‐4 ≥ 3.25. All coinfected patients had well controlled HIV infection.

Results

The groups were similar in age, gender, percentage with Fib‐4 ≥ 3.25 and HCV viral load, but differed in previous treatment response, with more coinfected patients being nonresponders or treatment‐intolerant (75.8% vs. 50.0% for monoinfected patients; P < 0.01). During treatment, the percentages of patients with undetectable HCV RNA were similar, but, surprisingly, this percentage tended to be higher in coinfected patients. SVR12 rates were 60.6% in coinfected patients vs. 42.2% in monoinfected patients (P = 0.06). In multivariable analysis, SVR12 was associated with HIV infection [odds ratio (OR) 3.55; P < 0.01], African American race (OR 0.37; P = 0.03) and previous treatment response (OR 0.46; P = 0.03). Rates of severe anaemia (45.5 vs. 58.6% in coinfected and monoinfected patients, respectively; P = 0.18) were similar in the two groups, but rash (15.2 vs. 34.5%, respectively; P = 0.03) and rectal symptoms (12.1 vs. 43.1%, respectively; P < 0.01) were less common in coinfected patients.

Conclusions

Virological responses of coinfected and monoinfected patients did not differ significantly, but tended to be higher in coinfected patients, who had a 60.6% SVR12 rate. Telaprevir‐based triple therapy is a promising option for coinfected patients with well‐controlled HIV infection.
Finite Element Analysis and Design of Thermal–Mechanical Stresses in Multilayer Ceramic Capacitors
Authors: Huang Chang‐Wei , Chen Ben‐Ting , Chen Kun‐Yen , Hsueh Chun‐Hway , Wei Wen‐Cheng , Lee Chen‐Te
Published: September 2013

A three‐dimensional finite element model describing the thermal–mechanical stress distribution in multilayer ceramic capacitors (MLCCs) during termination firing, soldering, and bending tests is presented. Numerical results indicate that the thermal residual stresses originating from the soldering process are approximately one‐fifth to half of the magnitude of the flexural stresses at the crack occurrence during the board flex test. The peak tensile stress from numerical simulations correlates with the crack initiation site observed in situ in board flex tests. The effects of inner electrode number, solder wicking height, lateral margin length, and the thickness of nickel in the termination component on mechanical failure during the board flex test are also investigated. Numerical results demonstrate that the maximum tensile stress could be effectively relieved by increasing the length of the lateral margin. In addition, a judicious combination of the solder wicking height and nickel termination thickness can further diminish the peak tensile stress during the board flex test. Finally, better design criteria are also developed by modifying the geometric parameters of MLCCs using Taguchi orthogonal arrays to decrease the peak tensile stresses that occur during board flex tests.
DEFB1 gene 5′ untranslated region (UTR) polymorphisms are marginally involved in inflammatory bowel disease in south Brazilians
Authors: Wilson T. J. , Jobim M. , Segat L. , Bianco A. M. , Salim P. H. , Portela P. , Jobim L. F. , Damin D. C. , Schwartsmann G. , Roesler R. , Crovella S.
Published: September 2013

The possible association of three DEFB1 gene polymorphisms with susceptibility to develop ulcerative colitis (UC) and Crohn's disease (CD) was investigated in Brazilian patients and controls. Although a clear and strong association between functional 5′‐UTR DEFB1 SNPs and susceptibility/protection to IBDs cannot be drawn, our results suggest a possible involvement of DEFB1 gene in inflammatory bowel diseases, especially with the colonic localization of Crohn's disease.
Identification of co‐expressed gene signatures in mouse B1, marginal zone and B2 B‐cell populations
Authors: Mabbott Neil A. , Gray David
Published: September 2013

In mice, three major B‐cell subsets have been identified with distinct functionalities: B1 B cells, marginal zone B cells and follicular B2 B cells. Here, we used the growing body of publicly available transcriptomics data to create an expression atlas of 84 gene expression microarray data sets of distinct mouse B‐cell subsets. These data were subjected to network‐based cluster analysis using BioLayout Express3D. Using this analysis tool, genes with related functions clustered together in discrete regions of the network graph and enabled the identification of transcriptional networks that underpinned the functional activity of distinct cell populations. Some gene clusters were expressed highly by most of the cell populations included in this analysis (such as those with activity related to house‐keeping functions). Others contained genes with expression patterns specific to distinct B‐cell subsets. While these clusters contained many genes typically associated with the activity of the cells they were specifically expressed in, many novel B‐cell‐subset‐specific candidate genes were identified. A large number of uncharacterized genes were also represented in these B‐cell lineage‐specific clusters. Further analysis of the activities of these uncharacterized candidate genes will lead to the identification of novel B‐cell lineage‐specific transcription factors and regulators of B‐cell function. We also analysed 36 microarray data sets from distinct human B‐cell populations. These data showed that mouse and human germinal centre B cells shared similar transcriptional features, whereas mouse B1 B cells were distinct from proposed human B1 B cells.
Multi‐scale patterns in co‐occurrence of rocky inter‐tidal gastropods along the west coast of India
Authors: Puri Mahi , Namboothri Naveen , Shanker Kartik
Published: September 2013

Over the last five decades, inter‐tidal ecology has evolved from being a purely descriptive science to using quantitative and experimental approaches to understand community structure. However, this has sometimes come at the cost of understanding generality since many studies have focused on local spatial scales and patch dynamics. This study aimed to assess the generality of co‐occurrence patterns at a large spatial scale, covering over 1000 km, by comparing empirical association patterns with random patterns generated by simulations. Species co‐occurrence patterns are useful to examine the role of abiotic and biotic factors in community assembly. Our results show non‐random patterns of species association at large spatial scales, mainly reflecting increasing community similarity with decreasing geographical distance, although random patterns of species association were found at the smallest spatial scales. Negative associations between species dominated the association pattern when all species pairs were considered, but most of the significant associations were positive. There was low congruence of association strengths of the same species‐pairs in different clusters, indicating that associations are likely to be contingent on local conditions. Finally, association strength of con‐familial species pairs was found to be higher than species belonging to different families, probably reflecting habitat filtering. This study emphasizes the role and importance of examining general patterns and of using a combination of experimental and observational studies to gain insights at multiple scales.
Translating nutritional ecology from the laboratory to the field: milestones in linking plant chemistry to population regulation in mammalian browsers
Authors: DeGabriel Jane L. , Moore Ben D. , Felton Annika M. , Ganzhorn Jörg U. , Stolter Caroline , Wallis Ian R. , Johnson Christopher N. , Foley William J.
Published: September 2013

A central goal of nutritional ecology is to understand how variation in food quality limits the persistence of wild animal populations. Habitat suitability for browsing mammals is strongly affected by concentrations of nutrients and plant secondary metabolites (PSMs), but our understanding of this is based mostly on short‐term experiments of diet selection involving captive animals. In the wild, browsers forage in biologically, chemically and spatially‐complex environments, and foraging decisions in response to varying food quality will be correspondingly complicated. We have identified four steps that must be achieved in order to translate our understanding from laboratory experiments to populations of mammalian browsers: 1) knowing what foods and how much of these wild browsers eat, as well as what they avoid eating; 2) knowing the relevant aspects of plant nutritional and defensive chemistry to measure in a given system and how to measure them; 3) understanding the spatial distribution of nutrients and PSMs in plant communities, the costs they impose on foraging and the effects on animals’ distributions; and 4) having appropriate statistical tools to analyse the data. We discuss prospects for each of these prerequisites for extending laboratory studies of nutritional quality, and review recent developments that may offer solutions for field studies. We also provide a synthesis of how to use this nutritional knowledge to link food quality to population regulation in wild mammals and describe examples that have successfully achieved this aim.
Cerebral Edema in Acute Ischemic Stroke Patients Treated with Intravenous Thrombolysis
Authors: Strbian Daniel , Meretoja Atte , Putaala Jukka , Kaste Markku , Tatlisumak Turgut ,   for the Helsinki Stroke Thrombolysis Registry Group
Published: September 2013

Background

Cerebral edema (CED) deteriorates outcome of ischemic stroke patients, and there is no effective medical treatment. Limited data exist on cerebral edema after stroke thrombolysis.

Aims

We aimed to analyze impact of cerebral edema on the outcome of thrombolysis-treated patients.

Methods

Our cohort included 943 thrombolysis-treated ischemic stroke patients at the Helsinki University Central Hospital (1995–2008). Cerebral edema represented focal brain swelling up to 1/3 (CED-1) or greater than 1/3 (CED-2) of the hemisphere, or midline shift (CED-3). We studied baseline parameters associated with development of cerebral edema and association of cerebral edema with three-month outcome (modified Rankin Scale, mRS).

Results

On control imaging, CED-1 was present in 167 (17·7%), CED-2 in 40 (4·2%), and CED-3 in 53 (5·6%) patients. Compared with patients without edema ( n = 683), patients with cerebral edema had higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale scores, more often hyperdense cerebral artery sign or early infarct signs on admission computerized tomography, and received thrombolysis later. Cerebral edema was independently associated with poor outcome (mRS 3–6) and mortality, whereas favorable outcome (mRS 0–2) was observed in 77 (46%), 5 (13%), and 3 (6%) patients with CED 1, 2, and 3, respectively. Anti-edema treatment was considered necessary and administered to 49/260 (19%) patients; only five had favorable outcome.

Conclusions

Cerebral edema is frequent (28%) among thrombolysis-treated ischemic stroke patients, occurring in severe forms in 10%. Higher baseline National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale, presence of hyperdense cerebral artery sign or early infarct signs, and longer treatment delays are associated with edema development. Edema is a strong independent predictor of three-month outcome. Effect of anti-edema treatment was modest.
Pregnane Xenobiotic Receptors and Membrane Progestin Receptors: Role in Neurosteroid‐Mediated Motivated Behaviours
Authors: Frye C. A. , Koonce C. J. , Walf A. A.
Published: September 2013

Progestogens have actions in the midbrain ventral tegmental area (VTA) to mediate motivated behaviours, such as those involved in reproductive processes, among female rodents. In the VTA, the formation and actions of one progestogen, 5α‐pregnan‐3α‐ol‐20‐one (3α,5α‐THP), are necessary and sufficient to facilitate sexual responding (measured by lordosis) of female rodents. Although 3α,5α‐THP can be produced after metabolism of ovarian progesterone, 3α,5α‐THP is also a neurosteroid produced de novo in brain regions, such as the VTA. There can be dynamic changes in 3α,5α‐THP production associated with behavioural experience, such as mating. Questions of interest are the sources and targets of 3α,5α‐THP. Regarding sources, the pregnane xenobiotic receptor (PXR) may be a novel factor involved in 3α,5α‐THP metabolism in the VTA (as well as a direct target of 3α,5α‐THP). We have identified PXR in the midbrain of female rats, and manipulating PXR in this region reduces 3α,5α‐THP synthesis and alters lordosis, as well as affective and social behaviours. Regarding targets, recent studies have focused on the role of membrane progestin receptors (mPRs). We have analysed the expression of two of the common forms of these receptors (mPRα/paqr7 and mPRβ/paqr8) in female rats. The expression of mPRα was observed in peripheral tissues and brain areas, including the hypothalamus and midbrain. The expression of mPRβ was only observed in brain tissues and was abundant in the midbrain and hypothalamus. To our knowledge, studies of these receptors in mammalian models have been limited to expression and regulation, instead of function. One question that was addressed was the functional effects of progestogens via mPRα and mPRβ in the midbrain of hormone‐primed rats for lordosis. Studies to date suggest that mPRβ may be an important target of progestogens in the VTA for lordosis. Taken together, the result of these studies demonstrate that PXR is involved in the production of 3α,5α‐THP in the midbrain VTA. Moreover, mPRs may be a target for the actions of progestogens in the VTA for lordosis.
Epigenetics, Oestradiol and Hippocampal Memory Consolidation
Authors: Frick K. M.
Published: September 2013

Epigenetic alterations of histone proteins and DNA are essential for hippocampal synaptic plasticity and cognitive function, and contribute to the aetiology of psychiatric disorders and neurodegenerative diseases. Hippocampal memory formation depends on histone alterations and DNA methylation, and increasing evidence suggests that the regulation of these epigenetic processes by modulatory factors, such as environmental enrichment, stress and hormones, substantially influences memory function. Recent work from our laboratory suggests that the ability of the sex‐steroid hormone 17β‐oestradiol (E2) to enhance novel object recognition memory consolidation in young adult female mice is dependent on histone H3 acetylation and DNA methylation in the dorsal hippocampus. Our data also suggest that enzymes mediating DNA methylation and histone acetylation work in concert to regulate the effects of E2 on memory consolidation. These findings shed light on the epigenetic mechanisms that influence hormonal modulation of cognitive function, and may have important implications for understanding how hormones influence cognition in adulthood and ageing. The present review provides a brief overview of the literature on epigenetics and memory, describes in detail our findings demonstrating that epigenetic alterations regulate E2‐induced memory enhancement in female mice, and discusses future directions for research on the epigenetic regulation of E2‐induced memory enhancement.
Early Neuroendocrine Disruption in Hypothalamus and Hippocampus: Developmental Effects Including Female Sexual Maturation and Implications for Endocrine Disrupting Chemical Screening
Authors: Bourguignon J.‐P. , Franssen D. , Gérard A. , Janssen S. , Pinson A. , Naveau E. , Parent A.‐S.
Published: September 2013

The timing of puberty has been mainly studied in females for several reasons, including the possible evaluation of a precise timer (i.e. menarcheal age) and concerns with respect to the high prevalence of precocity in females as opposed to males. Human evidence of altered female pubertal timing after exposure to endocrine disrupting chemicals (EDCs) is equivocal. Among the limiting factors, most studies evaluate exposure to single EDCs at the time of puberty and hardly assess the impact of lifelong exposure to mixtures of EDCs. Some rodent and ovine studies indicate a possible role of foetal and neonatal exposure to EDCs, in accordance with the concept of an early origin of health and disease. Such effects possibly involve neuroendocrine mechanisms because the hypothalamus is a site where homeostasis of reproduction, as well as control of energy balance, is programmed and regulated. In our previous studies, pulsatile gonadotrophin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) secretion control via oestrogen, glutamate and aryl hydrocarbon receptors was shown to be involved in the mechanism of sexual precocity after early postnatal exposure to the insecticide dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane. Very recently, we have shown that neonatal exposure to the potent synthetic oestrogen diethylstilbestrol (DES) is followed by early or delayed puberty depending on the dose, with consistent changes in developmental increase of GnRH pulse frequency. Moreover, DES results in reduced leptin stimulation of GnRH secretion in vitro, an effect that is additive with prenatal food restriction. Thus, using puberty as an endpoint of the effects of EDC, it appears necessary to consider pre‐ and perinatal exposure to low doses and to pay attention to the other conditions of prenatal life, such as energy availability, keeping in mind the possibility that puberty could not only be advanced, but also delayed through neuroendocrine mechanisms.
Effects of sodium butyrate on growth performance, haematological and immunological characteristics of weanling piglets
Authors: Fang C. L. , Sun H. , Wu J. , Niu H. H. , Feng J.
Published: September 2013

The experiment was conducted to study the effects of sodium butyrate (SB) on growth, haematological and immunological characteristics in weanling pigs. A total of 100 male piglets (Duroc×Landrace×Yorkshire) with a body weight of 8.0 ± 0.2 kg weaned at the age of 28 days were randomly assigned to two treatments with five replicates and 10 pigs per replicate. Piglets received a basal diet (control group) or diets supplemented with 1000 mg/kg SB. The feeding trial lasted for 21 days. The results showed that dietary SB significantly decreased (p < 0.05) diarrhoea incidence of weaned piglets, but did not affect (p > 0.05) the average daily feed intake (ADFI), average daily gain (ADG) and feed to gain (F/G). Furthermore, piglets fed dietary SB had higher (p < 0.05) serum concentrations of glucose and triglycerides and lower (p < 0.05) serum concentrations of urea nitrogen, cortisol, D‐lactic acid and diamine oxidase when compared with the control group. However, dietary SB did not affect concentrations of serum albumin, total protein, insulin and glucagon (p > 0.05). There were no significant (p > 0.05) treatment effects on serum IgA and IgM, whereas serum IgG concentration and IgA+ cell count in jejunum from pigs fed SB were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than in those given the basal diet. In conclusion, the present study indicated that dietary SB significantly decreased diarrhoea incidence of weaned piglets and increased the efficiency of nitrogen utilization. Also, dietary SB could regulate and enhance the immune function of piglets by increasing the serum IgG concentration and IgA+ cell count in jejunum. Our results suggest that SB may reduce some of the adverse effects of weaning stress and play an important role in maintaining the integrity of intestinal mucosa.
The Antidepressants Fluoxetine and Bupropion Differentially Affect Proceptive Behavior in the Naturally Cycling Female Rat
Authors: Ventura-Aquino Elisa , Fernández-Guasti Alonso
Published: September 2013

Introduction

Fluoxetine, like other selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, inhibits women's sexual desire and female rats' sexual behavior. Bupropion produces pro-sexual effects in women with and without depression, and yohimbine increases men's and male rats' sexual motivation, but their effects on female rats' proceptivity are unknown.

Aim

To investigate the effects of fluoxetine, bupropion, and yohimbine on proceptivity and receptivity in the naturally cycling female rat.

Methods

We studied the effect of chronic (minimum 14 days) fluoxetine (1.25 mg/kg, subcutaneous) and bupropion (5 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) and acute yohimbine (1 mg/kg, intraperitoneal) on sexual behavior of female rats selected in natural proestrus during an ejaculatory series. We also analyzed the effects of these treatments on locomotor activity.

Main Outcome Measures

The main outcome measures were frequencies of hops/darts and ear wiggling, lordosis quotient and intensity, and locomotor activity.

Results

Fluoxetine inhibited ear wiggling and hopping/darting, while bupropion stimulated hopping/darting. These treatments did not modify the lordosis quotient and its intensity. Yohimbine did not change any aspect of female sexual behavior. At the doses and treatments used, fluoxetine and bupropion did not alter locomotor activity or disturb the length of the estrous cycle; however, yohimbine inhibited locomotor activity.

Conclusions

The motivational components of female sexual behavior are more sensitive than the receptive components to the inhibitory actions of fluoxetine. Bupropion selectively stimulated hopping/darting, while yohimbine lacked an action on female sexual behavior.
A Role for Peripheral 5-HT2 Receptors in Serotonin-Induced Facilitation of the Expulsion Phase of Ejaculation in Male Rats
Authors: Ishigami Takao , Yoshioka Katsuro , Karicheti Venkateswarlu , Marson Lesley
Published: September 2013

Introduction

The urethrogenital reflex (UGR) is used as a physiological animal model of the autonomic and somatic activity that accompanies ejaculatory-like reflexes (ELRs). Serotonin (5-HT) plays an important role in regulating ejaculation.

Aim

To examine the effects of intraurethral 5-HT on ELRs and to examine the effects of various 5-HT receptor subtypes on the 5-HT-induced changes in the ELRs.

Methods

The effects of intraurethral infusion of 5-HT on ELRs were examined by monitoring the urethrogenital reflex in male rats. The effects of various 5-HT receptor-specific antagonists on the 5-HT-induced responses were examined.

Main Outcome Measures

Main outcome measures were urethral pressure threshold required to elicit the UGR and bulbospongiosus activity or ELRs.

Results

Intraurethral infusion of 5-HT (10–1,000 μM) produced a dose-dependent facilitation of the UGR, i.e., decrease in threshold urethral perfusion pressure and an increase in number of ELRs. The 5-HT3 receptor antagonists tropisetron (1 and 3 mg/kg, i.v.) and ramosetron (0.1 and 1 mg/kg, i.v.), the 5-HT7 receptor antagonist SB269970 (3 mg/kg, i.v.), and the 5-HT1  A receptor antagonist WAY-100635 (1 mg/kg, i.v.) all failed to inhibit 5-HT-induced facilitation of the UGR. However, ritanserin (1 mg/kg, i.v.), a nonselective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, and xylamidine (0.01–1 mg/kg, i.v.), a peripherally restricted nonselective 5-HT2 receptor antagonist, significantly inhibited both the decrease in urethral pressure threshold and the increase in number of ELRs induced by intraurethral infusion of 5-HT.

Conclusion

These results suggest that in the male rat urethra, peripheral 5-HT2 receptors are involved in the 5-HT-induced facilitation of the expulsion phase of ejaculation.