bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water Use Efficiency and Physiological Response of Rice Cultivars under Alternate Wetting and Drying Conditions
Authors: Zhang Yunbo , Tang Qiyuan , Peng Shaobing , Xing Danying , Qin Jianquan , Laza Rebecca C. , Punzalan Bermenito R.
Published: December 2012

One of the technology options that can help farmers cope with water scarcity at the field level is alternate wetting and drying (AWD). Limited information is available on the varietal responses to nitrogen, AWD, and their interactions. Field experiments were conducted at the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) farm in 2009 dry season (DS), 2009 wet season (WS), and 2010 DS to determine genotypic responses and water use efficiency of rice under two N rates and two water management treatments. Grain yield was not significantly different between AWD and continuous flooding (CF) across the three seasons. Interactive effects among variety, water management, and N rate were not significant. The high yield was attributed to the significantly higher grain weight, which in turn was due to slower grain filling and high leaf N at the later stage of grain filling of CF. AWD treatments accelerated the grain filling rate, shortened grain filling period, and enhanced whole plant senescence. Under normal dry-season conditions, such as 2010 DS, AWD reduced water input by 24.5% than CF; however, it decreased grain yield by 6.9% due to accelerated leaf senescence. The study indicates that proper water management greatly contributes to grain yield in the late stage of grain filling, and it is critical for safe AWD technology.
Simulation of the Fate and Seasonal Variations ofα-Hexachlorocyclohexane in Lake Chaohu Using a Dynamic Fugacity Model
Authors: Kong Xiang-zhen , He Wei , Qin Ning , He Qi-Shuang , Yang Bin , Ouyang Huiling , Wang Qingmei , Yang Chen , Jiang Yujiao , Xu Fuliu
Published: December 2012

Fate and seasonal variations ofα-hexachlorocyclohexane (α-HCH) were simulated using a dynamic fugacity model in Lake Chaohu, China. Sensitivity analyses were performed to identify influential parameters and Monte Carlo simulation was conducted to assess model uncertainty. The calculated and measured values of the model were in good agreement except for suspended solids, which might be due to disregarding the plankton in water. The major source ofα-HCH was an input from atmospheric advection, while the major environmental outputs were atmospheric advection and sediment degradation. The net annual input and output ofα-HCH were approximately 0.294 t and 0.412 t, respectively. Sediment was an important sink forα-HCH. Seasonal patterns in various media were successfully modeled and factors leading to this seasonality were discussed. Sensitivity analysis found that parameters of source and degradation were more important than the other parameters. The sediment was influenced more by various parameters than air and water were. Temperature variation had a greater impact on the dynamics of the model output than other dynamic parameters. Uncertainty analysis showed that the model uncertainty was relatively low but significantly increased in the second half of the simulation period due to the increase in the gas-water diffusion flux variability.
Merlin/ERM proteins establish cortical asymmetry and centrosome position
Authors: Hebert Alan M. , DuBoff Brian , Casaletto Jessica B. , Gladden Andrew B. , McClatchey Andrea I.
Published: December 2012

The ability to generate asymmetry at the cell cortex underlies cell polarization and asymmetric cell division. Here we demonstrate a novel role for the tumor suppressor Merlin and closely related ERM proteins (Ezrin, Radixin, and Moesin) in generating cortical asymmetry in the absence of external cues. Our data reveal that Merlin functions to restrict the cortical distribution of the actin regulator Ezrin, which in turn positions the interphase centrosome in single epithelial cells and three-dimensional organotypic cultures. In the absence of Merlin, ectopic cortical Ezrin yields mispositioned centrosomes, misoriented spindles, and aberrant epithelial architecture. Furthermore, in tumor cells with centrosome amplification, the failure to restrict cortical Ezrin abolishes centrosome clustering, yielding multipolar mitoses. These data uncover fundamental roles for Merlin/ERM proteins in spatiotemporally organizing the cell cortex and suggest that Merlin's role in restricting cortical Ezrin may contribute to tumorigenesis by disrupting cell polarity, spindle orientation, and, potentially, genome stability.
Genome-wide identification of enhancers in skeletal muscle: the role of MyoD1
Authors: Blum Roy , Vethantham Vasupradha , Bowman Christopher , Rudnicki Michael , Dynlacht Brian D.
Published: December 2012

To identify the compendium of distal regulatory elements that govern myogenic differentiation, we generated chromatin state maps based on histone modifications and recruitment of factors that typify enhancers in myoblasts and myotubes. We found a striking concordance between the locations of these newly defined enhancers, MyoD1-binding events, and noncoding RNA transcripts. These enhancers recruit several sequence-specific transcription factors in a spatially constrained manner around MyoD1-binding sites. Remarkably, MyoD1-null myoblasts show a wholesale loss of recruitment of these factors as well as diminished monomethylation of H3K4 (H3K4me1) and acetylation of H3K27 (H3K27ac) and reduced recruitment of Set7, an H3K4 monomethylase. Surprisingly, we found that H3K4me1, but not H3K27ac, could be restored by re-expression of MyoD1 in MyoD1−/− myoblasts, although re-expression of this factor in MyoD1-null myotubes restored both histone modifications. Our studies identified a role for MyoD1 in condition-specific enhancer assembly through recruitment of transcription factors and histone-modifying enzymes that shape muscle differentiation.
Trans-tail regulation of MLL4-catalyzed H3K4 methylation by H4R3 symmetric dimethylation is mediated by a tandem PHD of MLL4
Authors: Dhar Shilpa S. , Lee Sung-Hun , Kan Pu-Yeh , Voigt Philipp , Ma Li , Shi Xiaobing , Reinberg Danny , Lee Min Gyu
Published: December 2012

Mixed-lineage leukemia 4 (MLL4; also called MLL2 and ALR) enzymatically generates trimethylated histone H3 Lys 4 (H3K4me3), a hallmark of gene activation. However, how MLL4-deposited H3K4me3 interplays with other histone marks in epigenetic processes remains largely unknown. Here, we show that MLL4 plays an essential role in differentiating NT2/D1 stem cells by activating differentiation-specific genes. A tandem plant homeodomain (PHD4–6) of MLL4 recognizes unmethylated or asymmetrically dimethylated histone H4 Arg 3 (H4R3me0 or H4R3me2a) and is required for MLL4's nucleosomal methyltransferase activity and MLL4-mediated differentiation. Kabuki syndrome mutations in PHD4–6 reduce PHD4–6's binding ability and MLL4's catalytic activity. PHD4–6's binding strength is inhibited by H4R3 symmetric dimethylation (H4R3me2s), a gene-repressive mark. The protein arginine methyltransferase 7 (PRMT7), but not PRMT5, represses MLL4 target genes by up-regulating H4R3me2s levels and antagonizes MLL4-mediated differentiation. Consistently, PRMT7 knockdown increases MLL4-catalyzed H3K4me3 levels. During differentiation, decreased H4R3me2s levels are associated with increased H3K4me3 levels at a cohort of genes, including many HOXA and HOXB genes. These findings indicate that the trans-tail inhibition of MLL4-generated H3K4me3 by PRMT7-regulated H4R3me2s may result from H4R3me2s's interference with PHD4–6's binding activity and is a novel epigenetic mechanism that underlies opposing effects of MLL4 and PRMT7 on cellular differentiation.
Mapping genomic hotspots of DNA damage by a single-strand-DNA-compatible and strand-specific ChIP-seq method
Authors: Zhou Zhi-Xiong , Zhang Mei-Jun , Peng Xu , Takayama Yuko , Xu Xing-Ya , Huang Ling-Zhi , Du Li-Lin
Published: December 2012

Spontaneous DNA damage may occur nonrandomly in the genome, especially when genome maintenance mechanisms are undermined. We developed single-strand DNA (ssDNA)–associated protein immunoprecipitation followed by sequencing (SPI-seq) to map genomic hotspots of DNA damage. We demonstrated this method with Rad52, a homologous recombination repair protein, which binds to ssDNA formed at DNA lesions. SPI-seq faithfully detected, in fission yeast, Rad52 enrichment at artificially induced double-strand breaks (DSBs) as well as endogenously programmed DSBs for mating-type switching. Applying Rad52 SPI-seq to fission yeast mutants defective in DNA helicase Pfh1 or histone H3K56 deacetylase Hst4, led to global views of DNA lesion hotspots emerging in these mutants. We also found serendipitously that histone dosage aberration can activate retrotransposon Tf2 and cause the accumulation of a Tf2 cDNA species bound by Rad52. SPI-seq should be widely applicable for mapping sites of DNA damage and uncovering the causes of genome instability.
Two waves of transcription are required for long-term memory in the honeybee
Authors: Lefer Damien , Perisse Emmanuel , Hourcade Benoît , Sandoz JeanChristophe , Devaud Jean-Marc
Published: December 2012

Storage of information into long-term memory (LTM) usually requires at least two waves of transcription in many species. However, there is no clear evidence of this phenomenon in insects, which are influential models for memory studies. We measured retention in honeybees after injecting a transcription inhibitor at different times before and after conditioning. We identified two separate time windows during which the transcription blockade impairs memory quantitatively and qualitatively, suggesting the occurrence of an early transcription wave (triggered during conditioning) and a later one (starting several hours after learning). Hence insects, like other species, would require two transcription waves for LTM formation.
A portrait of building services engineers in Hong Kong
Authors: Yik Francis W.H. , Lai Joseph H.K. , Chan K.T. , Chau C.K. , Lee W.L.
Published: December 2012

Purpose

As part of a study that aimed at enhancing the future roles and functions of building services (BS) engineers in Hong Kong, a survey was carried out to obtain demographic information about BS practitioners as well as their views and opinions on a range of issues which affect professional practices of BS engineers and recognition of their contributions by others. The purpose of this paper is to give a portrait of BS engineers in Hong Kong.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of statistical analyses were conducted based on the responses given by the BS practitioners, which included their qualifications, experience, job field, annual income and the number of trades of BS systems that they are competent in and responsible for.

Findings

The statistics show that: competence gap exists in that BS engineers are required to handle more trades of BS systems than those they are competent in; and the academic and professional qualifications, years of experience and job position are the key influential factors to the annual income of BS engineers but little differences exist in the average annual income of engineers in different job fields.

Originality/value

The competence gap is a concern that needs to be addressed to ensure BS engineers are competent in handling the common trades of BS systems, which is increasingly important for them to perform effectively in integrated professional teams for turning out holistic solutions for sustainable building developments.
Interleukin‐17A‐producing T lymphocytes in chronic active Epstein–Barr virus infection
Authors: Ohta Rieko , Imai Masaki , Kawada Jun‐ichi , Kimura Hiroshi , Ito Yoshinori
Published: December 2012

T helper (Th) 17 cells are reportedly effector T cells that produce interleukin (IL)‐17A and play a significant role in the development of autoimmune diseases and immune responses for antimicrobial host defense. Production of IL‐17A in chronic active Epstein–Barr virus infection (CAEBV) was studied to investigate its contribution to pathogenesis of this disease. Significantly more IL‐17A‐producing cells were detected in the peripheral blood of CAEBV patients than in that of healthy controls, although a significant difference in serum IL‐17A production was not confirmed. Of the IL‐17A‐producing cells, 91.8% were cluster of differentiation (CD)4‐positive Th17 cells. Moreover, there were significantly more IL‐17A‐producing cells among CD4+ cells in peripheral blood of CAEBV patients than in that of controls (1.97 ± 0.69% vs. 1.09 ± 0.53%, P = 0.0073). These data suggest that IL‐17A‐producing cells may influence the pathophysiology of CAEBV.
Specific mutations of basal core promoter are associated with chronic liver disease in hepatitis B virus subgenotype D1 prevalent in Turkey
Authors: Sunbul Mustafa , Sugiyama Masaya , Kurbanov Fuat , Leblebicioglu Hakan , Khan Anis , Elkady Abeer , Tanaka Yasuhito , Mizokami Masashi
Published: December 2012

The role of hepatitis B virus (HBV) genetics in the clinical manifestations of infection is being increasingly recognized. Genotype D is one of eight currently recognized major HBV genotypes. The virus is ubiquitous worldwide, but shows different features in different regions. One hundred and ninety‐eight patients with chronic HBV infection were enrolled in this study, 38 of whom had been diagnosed with cirrhosis of the liver and/or hepatocellular carcinoma. HBV DNA was isolated from the patients' blood samples and the entire genome and/or the basal core promoter/core promoter region sequenced. Phylogenetic analysis of the complete genomes revealed that subgenotype D1 is the most prevalent subgenotype in Turkey, but there was no definite phylogenetic grouping according to geography for isolates from different regions within Turkey, or for isolates in Turkey relative to other parts of the world. Turkish isolates tended to be genetically similar to European and central Asian isolates. Overall, HBV‐infection in Turkey appears to be characterized by early HBeAg seroconversion, a high incidence of the A1896 core promoter mutation and a small viral load. Genotype D characteristic mutations A1757 and T1764/G1766 were found in the BCP region. T1773 was associated with T1764/G1766 and a larger viral load. In conclusion, infection with HBV genotype D in Turkey has a similar clinical outcome to that of Europe and central Asia. Genotypic mutations in genotype D may be linked with disease prognosis in Turkey, but further studies with higher sample numbers and balanced clinical groups are needed to confirm this.
A cat's tale: the impact of genetic restoration on Florida panther population dynamics and persistence
Authors: Hostetler Jeffrey A. , Onorato David P. , Jansen Deborah , Oli Madan K.
Published: December 2012

Genetic restoration has been suggested as a management tool for mitigating detrimental effects of inbreeding depression in small, inbred populations, but the demographic mechanisms underlying population‐level responses to genetic restoration remain poorly understood.

We studied the dynamics and persistence of the endangered Florida pantherPuma concolor coryipopulation and evaluated the potential influence of genetic restoration on population growth and persistence parameters. As part of the genetic restoration programme, eight female Texas pumasP. c. stanleyanawere released into Florida panther habitat in southern Florida in 1995.

The overall asymptotic population growth rate (λ) was 1·04 (5th and 95th percentiles: 0·95–1·14), suggesting an increase in the panther population of approximately 4% per year. Considering the effects of environmental and demographic stochasticities and density‐dependence, the probability that the population will fall below 10 panthers within 100 years was 0·072 (0–0·606).

Our results suggest that the population would have declined at 5% per year (λ = 0·95; 0·83–1·08) in the absence of genetic restoration. Retrospective life table response experiment analysis revealed that the positive effect of genetic restoration on survival of kittens was primarily responsible for the substantial growth of the panther population that would otherwise have been declining.

For comparative purposes, we also estimated probability of quasi‐extinction under two scenarios – implementation of genetic restoration and no genetic restoration initiative – using the estimated abundance of panthers in 1995, the year genetic restoration was initiated. Assuming no density‐dependence, the probability that the panther population would fall below 10 panthers by 2010 was 0·098 (0·002–0·332) for the restoration scenario and 0·445 (0·032–0·944) for the no restoration scenario, providing further evidence that the panther population would have faced a substantially higher risk of extinction if the genetic restoration initiative had not been implemented.

Our results, along with those reporting increases in population size and improvements in biomedical correlates of inbreeding depression, provide strong evidence that genetic restoration substantially contributed to the observed increases in the Florida panther population.
Microcystin production revisited: conjugate formation makes a major contribution
Authors: Meissner Sven , Fastner Jutta , Dittmann Elke
Published: December 2012

The impact of environmental stimuli on the production of the widespread cyanobacterial hepatotoxin microcystin (MC) is under debate. Whereas transcriptional studies of the biosynthetic genes suggest a clear influence of light conditions on toxin production the data for the metabolite itself are inconsistent and highly strain‐specific. Here, we have reassessed the MC content by using two immunological detection techniques that allow a parallel quantification of MC in the methanolic extracts and the residual pellet fraction that contains high molecular weight proteins. Our results show a significant proportion of MC in the protein bound fraction in strains of Microcystis and Planktothrix and of the related toxin nodularin (NOD) in Nodularia. Moreover, we could show a very strong increase of MC after high light illumination in the protein fraction contributing to a significant overall increase in MC production under these conditions that is not seen in extracts analysed by LC‐MS and ELISA. The fact that a considerable portion of MC is neglected with current analysis techniques was also confirmed for selected field samples. Immunofluorescence studies suggest strain‐specific differences in the amount of MC conjugate formation.
The effect of adult interactive style on the spontaneous communication of young children with autism at school
Authors: Kossyvaki Lila , Jones Glenys , Guldberg Karen
Published: December 2012

Relatively little is known about the effect of adult interactive style on children's communication. The aim of this study, written by Lila Kossyvaki, Glenys Jones and Karen Guldberg, all from the University of Birmingham, was to explore the effects of adult interactive style on children's spontaneous communication. The study used an action research methodology. Six children aged between four and five years with autism and three members of staff participated. Each child was video recorded for a total of two hours across four activities. The staff, in collaboration with the researcher, developed and put into practice an Adult Interactive Style Intervention (AISI) intended to promote spontaneous communication. Two months later each child was recorded for two hours across the same activities with staff using AISI. Cohen's d effect size was calculated to measure the differences pre‐ and post‐intervention. The increase in total initiations post‐intervention for all six children was significant. The findings suggest that attention should be paid to adult style when developing communication in children with autism.
Participation in part‐time special education and its correlation with the educational paths, self‐concepts and strengths of young adults
Authors: Lappalainen Kristiina , Risto Hotulainen
Published: December 2012

This follow‐up study, written by Kristiina Lappalainen of the University of Eastern Finland and Hotulainen Risto of the University of Helsinki, investigated whether young adults designated as having part‐time special education needs (PtSEN) during their comprehensive schooling had differentiated educational and vocational paths, perceived self‐concept, strengths, and self‐worth when compared with students not designated as having such needs. Results show that young adults with PtSEN (n = 38) have less academically oriented educational paths than those not having special educational needs (No SEN) (n = 165). The self‐perceptions of young adults between the groups under study differ from each other only in the physical appearance domain for the PtSEN group. Strength perceptions showed that those in the PtSEN group consider neither learning nor mathematical skills as their strengths when compared with the No SEN group. In addition, the PtSEN group has higher global self‐worth ratings than the No SEN group. According to our comparison, young adults with PtSEN backgrounds perceive deficiencies only in those domains which are directly linked to school.
Labelling and self‐esteem: does labelling exceptional students impact their self‐esteem?
Authors: Thomson Margareta Maria
Published: December 2012

The purpose of this investigation was to explore the existing relationships between main concepts associated with labelling exceptional students and impact on their self‐esteem. The aim was to examine how these concepts are presented in the existing research literature, and what the implications are for educational practice of labelling exceptional students. This area of research is important for educators, researchers, practitioners, parents and advocates of exceptional students. By understanding the psychosocial and educational aspects of labelling and stigma, we can all contribute in different ways to address the unique particularities of exceptional students.
Is there still a role for empiric first‐line triple therapy using proton pump inhibitor, amoxicillin and clarithromycin for Helicobacter pylori infection in Singapore? Results of a time trend analysis
Authors: Ang Tiing Leong , Wang Luokai , Ang Daphne , Chiam Priscilla , Fock Kwong Ming , Teo Eng Kiong
Published: December 2012

Objective

This study was aimed to assess whether the efficacy of one‐week triple therapy comprising of proton pump inhibitor, amoxicillin and clarithromycin (PPI/A/C) on Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in Singapore has decreased over the duration from 2005 to 2010.

Methods

The clinical data of H. pylori‐positive patients treated with one‐week PPI/A/C in 2005 and 2010 were reviewed retrospectively using a registry database. The primary endpoint was the difference in treatment success rate.

Results

A total of 465 patients (n = 174 in 2005 and n = 291 in 2010) were analyzed. In 2010, compared with 2005, the mean age of patients was younger (47 vs 56 years, P < 0.001) and the proportion of foreigners was higher (19.9% vs 5.7%, P < 0.001). The success rate of H. pylori eradication remained similar over the two time periods (90.2% in 2005 vs 88.7% in 2010, P = 0.597). Multinomial logistic regression revealed that mean age, gender, diagnosis and nationality had no impact on the success of H. pylori eradication.

Conclusions

From 2005 to 2010, there was no significant decrease in the efficacy of one‐week PPI/A/C for the treatment of H. pylori infection. This treatment regime remained an effective first‐line therapy for H. pylori infection in Singapore.
Discovery and characterization of novel genetic markers for use in the management of Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi)
Authors: Pritchard Victoria L. , Campbell Nathan R. , Narum Shawn R. , Peacock Mary M. , Garza John CARLOS
Published: December 2012

The Lahontan cutthroat trout (Oncorhynchus clarkii henshawi) is threatened by habitat destruction, over‐harvest and hybridization with nonnative trout. Currently, three Geographic Management Units (GMUs) are recognized within the taxon. Here, we describe a suite of 68 single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genetic markers for use in the study and management of Lahontan cutthroat trout and a closely related subspecies, the Paiute cutthroat trout (O. c. seleneris). These include markers variable within the two subspecies (n = 35), diagnostic for the two subspecies (n = 23) and diagnostic for Yellowstone cutthroat trout (O. c. bouvieri) and other closely related subspecies (n = 10). Sixty‐three markers were discovered by Sanger sequencing of 171 EST loci in an ascertainment panel including Lahontan cutthroat trout from four populations representing all GMUs. Five markers were identified in a secondary sequencing effort with a single population of Lahontan cutthroat trout. TaqMan assays were validated on six Lahontan cutthroat trout populations and a diverse panel of other trout. Over 90% of the markers variable in Lahontan cutthroat trout were polymorphic in at least two populations, and 66% were variable within all three GMUs. All Lahontan diagnostic markers were also fixed for the Lahontan allele in Paiute cutthroat trout. Most of the Yellowstone diagnostic markers can also be used for this purpose in other cutthroat trout subspecies. This is the first set of SNP markers to be developed for Lahontan cutthroat trout, and will be an important tool for conservation and management.
Disease patterns of rheumatology outpatients seen in a tertiary hospital serving a multi‐ethnic, urban Asian population in Singapore
Authors: Ng Xinyi , Low Andrea Hsiu Ling , Chew Li‐Ching , Chong Yong Yeow , Fong Kok Yong , Lui Nai Lee , Sim Eugene , Tan York Kiat , Yoong Jon , Thumboo Julian
Published: December 2012

Aims

To describe the spectrum of diseases seen in an outpatient setting in the Singapore General Hospital, the largest tertiary referral centre in Singapore.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, medical records of patients scheduled for an appointment at the rheumatology specialist outpatient clinics over a 4‐month period (10 August 2010–31 December 2010) were reviewed. Primary diagnoses documented by the attending physician at the latest visit were recorded.

Results

Among 4180 patients (29.5% male; mean [SD] age: 53.5 [15.1] years; 77.0% Chinese, 8.0% Malay, 8.8% Indian and 6.2% others), the spectrum of diseases seen was as follows [disease – definite n (%), probable n (%)]: Arthritis: rheumatoid arthritis – 958 (22.9%), 68 (1.6%); osteoarthritis – 452 (10.8%), 39 (0.9%); crystal arthritis – 417 (10.0%), 18 (0.4%); spondyloarthritis – 227 (5.4%), 61 (1.5%); psoriatic arthritis – 158 (3.8%), 9 (0.2%); other inflammatory arthritis – 153 (3.7%), 94 (2.2%); Connective tissues diseases: systemic lupus erythematosus – 412 (9.9%), 26 (0.6%); vasculitis – 105 (2.5%), 22 (0.5%); Sjögren's syndrome – 81 (1.9%), 32 (0.8%); overlap syndromes – 73 (1.8%); scleroderma – 50 (1.2%), 4 (0.1%); undifferentiated connective tissue diseases – 45 (1.1%), 106 (2.5%); myositis – 41 (1.0%), 12 (0.3%); antiphospholipid syndrome – 22 (0.5%), 7 (0.2%); polymyalgia rheumatica – 16 (0.4%); Others: soft tissue rheumatism – 155 (3.7%); osteoporosis – 61 (1.5%); other non‐rheumatologic conditions – 189 (4.5%); other rheumatologic conditions – 67 (1.6%).

Conclusion

Rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and crystal arthritis were the three most common rheumatological diseases seen in a tertiary referral centre serving a multi‐ethnic urban Asian population in Singapore.
Information Quality of Interim Financial Statements
Authors: Lightstone Karen , Young Nicola M. , Mcfadden Tyra
Published: December 2012

Expressing concern about the Canadian capital market environment, Boritz (2006) suggested that the accounting and auditing profession may be paying limited attention to quarterly reports. This study investigates whether fourth‐quarter adjustments are significantly different from the previous three, thereby limiting the reliability or faithful representation of the firms' results for each quarter. This study includes four years (2003–2006) of quarterly financial information of 353 Canadian public companies. Our results indicate that the volatility of net income in each of the first three quarters is considerably lower than in the final quarter. While lower volatility can improve predictability, the resulting relevance may be limited. The low volatility of reported earnings in the first three quarters suggests that either earnings management is taking place or that management may not be exercising sufficient care at the end of each of the first three quarters on the measurements that generally accepted accounting principles call for and readers of financial statements expect. This could result in quarterly financial statements that do not faithfully represent the underlying resources and obligations of the reporting firms at the end of the quarter, or the firm's performance during the quarter. Our findings support Boritz's proposition for increased audit requirements for interim reports and changes in the approach to the annual audit to integrate it more closely with interim financial reporting.
An Agenda for Increasing Grant Funding of Emergency Medicine Education Research
Authors: Choo Esther K. , Fernandez Rosemarie , Hayden Emily M. , Schneider Jeffrey I. , Clyne Brian , Ginsburg Shiphra , Gruppen Larry D.
Published: December 2012

Funding is a perennial challenge for medical education researchers. Through a consensus process, the authors developed a multifaceted agenda for increasing funding of education research in emergency medicine (EM). Priority agenda items include developing resources to increase the competitiveness of medical education research faculty in grant applications, identifying means by which departments may bolster their faculty's grant writing success, taking long‐term steps to increase the number of grants available to education researchers in the field, and encouraging a shift in cultural attitudes toward education research.
Association of smoking with μ‐opioid receptor availability before and during naltrexone blockade in alcohol‐dependent subjects
Authors: Weerts Elise M. , Wand Gary S. , Kuwabara Hiroto , Xu Xiaoqiang , Frost J. James , Wong Dean F. , McCaul Mary E.
Published: December 2012

Persons with a history of alcohol dependence are more likely to use tobacco and to meet criteria for nicotine dependence compared with social drinkers or non‐drinkers. The high levels of comorbidity of nicotine and alcohol use and dependence are thought to be related to interactions between nicotinic, opioid and dopamine receptors in mesolimbic regions. The current study examined whether individual differences in regional μ‐opioid receptor (MOR) availability were associated with tobacco use, nicotine dependence and level of nicotine craving in 25 alcohol‐dependent (AD) subjects. AD subjects completed an inpatient protocol, which included medically supervised alcohol withdrawal, monitored alcohol abstinence, transdermal nicotine maintenance (21 mg/day) and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) imaging using the MOR agonist [11C]‐carfentanil (CFN) before (basal scan) and during treatment with 50 mg/day naltrexone (naltrexone scan). Subjects who had higher scores on the Fagerström Nicotine Dependence Test had significantly lower basal scan binding potential (BPND) across mesolimbic regions, including the amygdala, cingulate, globus pallidus, thalamus and insula. Likewise, the number of cigarettes per day was negatively associated with basal scan BPND in mesolimbic regions. Higher nicotine craving was significantly associated with lower BPND in amygdala, globus pallidus, putamen, thalamus and ventral striatum. Although blunted during naltrexone treatment, the negative association was maintained for nicotine dependence and cigarettes per day, but not for nicotine craving. These findings suggest that intensity of cigarette smoking and severity of nicotine dependence symptoms are systematically related to reduced BPND across multiple brain regions in AD subjects.
Forecasting the Term Structure of Korean Government Bond Yields Using the Dynamic Nelson‐Siegel Class Models
Authors: Kang Kyu Ho
Published: December 2012

In this paper we propose and examine various extensions of the three‐factor dynamic Nelson‐Siegel model with the purpose of forecasting. We enhance the flexibility of the model by adding an additional driving factor or allowing for regime shifts in the model parameters. The regime changes are modeled through a recurring regime switching process or a change point process. Out‐of‐sample one through 6‐months ahead forecasts are generated and evaluated using monthly Korean government bond yield data at sixteen different maturities. This paper finds that the three‐factor model performs best for both short and long forecast horizons. Incorporating additional factor or multiple regimes does not seem to improve the out‐of‐sample predictive accuracy of the yield curve forecasts.
Liquidity Risk and Expected Stock Returns in Korea: A New Approach
Authors: Jang Jeewon , Kang Jangkoo , Lee Changjun
Published: December 2012

We propose a simple way to capture the multidimensionality of liquidity. Our analysis indicates that existing liquidity measures have considerable asset specific components, which justifies our new approach. Constructing a two‐factor model with the market and liquidity factor proposed in this paper, we find that our two‐factor model explains well the cross‐section of stock returns in Korea from 1987 to 2010, describing the liquidity premium, size and value effects that the CAPM and Fama‐French three‐factor model fail to explain. Our results also show that the role of liquidity risk on expected stock returns is especially pronounced during the post‐Asian financial crisis period.
Anti‐allergic action of anti‐malarial drug artesunate in experimental mast cell‐mediated anaphylactic models
Authors: Cheng C. , Ng D. S. W. , Chan T. K. , Guan S. P. , Ho W. E. , Koh A. H. M. , Bian J. S. , Lau H. Y. A. , Wong W. S. F.
Published: December 2012

Background

Allergy is an acquired hypersensitivity reaction of the immune system mediated by cross‐linking of allergen‐specific IgE‐bound high‐affinity IgE receptors, leading to immediate mast cell degranulation. Artesunate is a semi‐synthetic derivative of artemisinin, an active component of the medicinal plant Artemisia annua. Artesunate is a clinically effective anti‐malarial drug and has recently been shown to attenuate allergic asthma in mouse models. This study investigated potential anti‐allergic effects of artesunate in animal models of IgE‐dependent anaphylaxis.

Methods

Anti‐allergic actions of artesunate were evaluated in passive cutaneous anaphylaxis and passive systemic anaphylaxis mouse models, and in ovalbumin‐induced contraction of bronchial rings isolated from sensitized guinea pigs. Direct mast cell‐stabilizing effect of artesunate was examined in RBL‐2H3 mast cell line and in mature human cultured mast cells. Anti‐allergic signaling mechanisms of action of artesunate in mast cells were also investigated.

Results

Artesunate prevented IgE‐mediated cutaneous vascular hyperpermeability, hypothermia, elevation in plasma histamine level, and tracheal tissue mast cell degranulation in mice in a dose‐dependent manner. In addition, artesunate suppressed ovalbumin‐mediated guinea pig bronchial smooth muscle contraction. Furthermore, artesunate concentration‐dependently blocked IgE‐mediated degranulation of RBL‐2H3 mast cells and human culture mast cells. Artesunate was found to inhibit IgE‐induced Syk and PLCγ1 phosphorylation, production of IP3, and rise in cytosolic Ca+2 level in mast cells.

Conclusions

We report here for the first time that artesunate possesses anti‐allergic activity by blocking IgE‐induced mast cell degranulation, providing a foundation for developing artesunate for the treatment of allergic asthma and other mast cell‐mediated allergic disorders.
Mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to allergens
Authors: Soyer O. U. , Akdis M. , Ring J. , Behrendt H. , Crameri R. , Lauener R. , Akdis C. A.
Published: December 2012

The immune system is regulated to protect the host from exaggerated stimulatory signals establishing a state of tolerance in healthy individuals. The disequilibrium in immune regulatory vs effector mechanisms results in allergic or autoimmune disorders in genetically predisposed subjects under certain environmental conditions. As demonstrated in allergen‐specific immunotherapy and in the healthy immune response to high‐dose allergen exposure models in humans, T regulatory cells are essential in the suppression of Th2‐mediated inflammation, maintenance of immune tolerance, induction of the two suppressive cytokines interleukin‐10 and transforming growth factor‐β, inhibition of allergen‐specific IgE, and enhancement of IgG4 and IgA. Also, suppression of dendritic cells, mast cells, and eosinophils contributes to the construction of peripheral tolerance to allergens. This review focuses on mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to allergens with special emphasis on recent developments in the area of immune regulation.
Indigenous Health Workforce Development: challenges and successes of the Vision 20:20 programme
Authors: Curtis Elana , Reid Papaarangi
Published: December 2012

Background

There are significant health workforce inequities that exist internationally. The shortage of indigenous health professionals within Australia and New Zealand requires action across multiple sectors, including health and education. This article outlines the successes and challenges of the University of Auckland's Vision 20:20 programme, which aims to improve indigenous Māori and Pacific health workforce development via recruitment, bridging/foundation and tertiary retention support interventions within the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences (FMHS).

Methods

Seven years of student data (2005–2011) are presented for undergraduate Student Pass Rate (SPR) by ethnicity and Certificate in Health Sciences (CertHSc) SPR, enrolments and completions by ethnicity. Four key areas of development are described: (i) student selection and pathway planning; (ii) foundation programme refinement; (iii) academic/pastoral support; and (iv) re‐development of the indigenous recruitment model.

Results

Key programme developments have had a positive impact on basic student data outcomes. The FMHS undergraduate SPR increased from 89% in 2005 to 94% in 2011 for Māori and from 81% in 2005 to 87% in 2011 for Pacific. The CertHSc SPR increased from 52% in 2005 to 92% in 2011 with a greater proportion of Māori and Pacific enrolments achieving completion over time (18–76% for Māori and 29–74% for Pacific).

Conclusion

Tertiary institutions have the potential to make an important contribution to indigenous health workforce development. Key challenges remain including secondary school feeder issues, equity funding, programme evaluation, post‐tertiary specialist workforce development and retention in Aotearoa, New Zealand.
Indigenous inequalities in cancer: what role for health care?
Authors: Hill Sarah , Sarfati Diana , Robson Bridget , Blakely Tony
Published: December 2012

Introduction

Poorer cancer survival in Indigenous populations contributes to health inequalities in both New Zealand and Australia.

Methods

We reviewed recent evidence of cancer treatment and outcomes among Māori and non‐Māori New Zealanders and examined the range of factors that may contribute to poorer survival in Māori.

Results

There is clear evidence that Māori have poorer cancer survival compared with other ethnic groups, particularly European New Zealanders. Two recent studies show that Māori patients receive poorer quality treatment for cancers of the lung and colon, even after adjusting for patient factors. These findings suggest the need to consider how the health‐care system as a whole may disadvantage Indigenous patients.

Discussion

We present a framework for considering how inequalities may arise in the delivery of cancer care, taking account of the health system as a whole – including the structure and organization of cancer services – as well as treatment processes and patient factors. A key feature of this framework is that it directs attention towards system‐level factors affecting cancer care, including the location, resourcing and cultural focus of services. Our analysis suggests a need to look beyond individual patient factors in order to improve the quality and equity of cancer services and to optimize cancer survival in Indigenous populations.
Auditory evoked arousal responses of 3‐month‐old infants exposed to methamphetamine in utero: a nap study
Authors: Galland Barbara C , Mitchell Ed A , Thompson John MD , Wouldes Trecia ,   the NZ IDEAL Study Group
Published: December 2012

Aim

To investigate whether or not infants exposed to methamphetamine prenatally have impaired arousal responses from sleep.

Methods

The polygraphic nap studies involved 42 infants aged 3 months exposed to methamphetamine in utero and a comparison group of 57 infants. A proportion of mothers in both groups smoked cigarettes and/or marijuana and drank alcohol during pregnancy. White noise from 50 to 100 decibels (dB) was administered at 10 dB intervals twice within non‐rapid eye movement (NREM) and rapid eye movement (REM) sleep states and arousal thresholds measured.

Results

Combining groups, 306 tests were completed (128 and 178 within REM and NREM sleep, respectively) and infants were more likely to wake at lower thresholds in REM than NREM sleep (hazard ratio 5.58; 95% CI, 3.78–8.23 p < 0.0001). No significant differences in arousal threshold were found between methamphetamine and comparison groups, before or after controlling for other substance use (NREM sleep; 0.98, 95% CI, 0.60–1.59 and REM sleep; 1.03, 95% CI, 0.56–1.89).

Conclusions

These findings suggest that arousal responses of methamphetamine‐exposed infants remain intact, providing no support for the hypothesis that prenatal exposure could increase their vulnerability to sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) through arousal deficits.
L‐carnitine improves hydrogen peroxide‐induced impairment of nuclear maturation in porcine oocytes
Authors: Yazaki Takako , Hiradate Yuki , Hoshino Yumi , Tanemura Kentaro , Sato Eimei
Published: December 2012

We investigated the effect of oxidative stress induced by hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) on lipid peroxide (LPO) level and nuclear maturation in porcine oocytes cultured with or without cumulus cells. After 22 h of pre‐culture, oocytes with attached cumulus cells (COC group) or denuded oocytes (DO group) were cultured with H2O2, and intra‐oocyte H2O2 and LPO levels were quantitatively analyzed using immunofluorescence. This is the first report evaluating LPO levels in porcine oocytes. After H2O2 supplementation, the DO group showed severe accumulation of H2O2 and LPO in the oocytes. Similarly, while inhibition of progression of nuclear maturation was observed in both groups, the effect was more severe in the DO group. These results demonstrate that cumulus cells reduce the accumulation of H2O2 stress in oocytes. Furthermore, we attempted to reduce the oxidative stress by H2O2 with L‐carnitine, a H2O2 scavenger. L‐carnitine decreased H2O2 and LPO levels in the oocytes in both groups, and improvement in the progression of impaired nuclear maturation was observed. These effects were different by the presence of cumulus cells. Our results provide that L‐carnitine is useful for alleviating H2O2‐induced oxidative stress by reducing LPO levels and improving the progression of nuclear maturation.
An irreconcilable crisis? The paradoxes of strategic operational optimisation and the antinomies of counter‐crisis ethics
Authors: Bove Arianna , Empson Erik M.
Published: December 2012

For good reasons we often think about ethics and strategy as two opposing categories. But as surfaces in which we see social practices reflected, as abstract planes in which social consciousness resides and which subjectivities reinvent, they share some deep and perhaps uncomfortable similarities. In this paper, we question whether they are irreconcilable categories and, through a discussion of the paradoxes of strategy and the antinomies of ethics, we examine their fraught relationship in current economic responses to the crisis. First, we outline the discursive topographies of strategy and ethics in respect to their abstract relations, and examine their integument in business ethics and strategy in context. Then, we show how there cannot be a simple coexistence of these two categories in organisational practice: one must in fact be subordinate to the other, although this subordination can produce the persistence of the other, even in its negation. Finally, we conclude that the asymmetrical nature of ethics and strategy entails that whereas ethics can immanently give rise to strategy, strategic questions on their own can only produce anti‐systemic ethical responses.
A crisis of leadership: towards an anti‐sovereign ethics of organisation
Authors: Wray‐Bliss Edward
Published: December 2012

A common reaction to crises experienced within or brought about by business is to identify a corollary ‘crisis of leadership’ and to call for better (stronger, more thoughtful or, indeed, more ethical and responsible) leaders. This paper supports the idea that there is a crisis of leadership – but interprets it quite differently. Specifically, I argue that the most ethically debilitating crisis is the fact that we look to leadership to solve organisational ethical ills. There is, I argue, a pressing need to conceptualise a business ethics that is not constrained by the straitjacket of official hierarchy – a need to denaturalise ‘leadership’ as the normal or rightful locus of ethical regulation and renewal in business organisation. To this end, I explore a Levinasian ethico‐politics of responsibility and proximity as the basis of an alternative, anti‐sovereign, ethics of organisation.
The financialisation of business ethics
Authors: Beverungen Armin , Dunne Stephen , Hoedemaekers Casper
Published: December 2012

Business schools have become implicated in the widespread demonisation of the financial classes. By educating those held most responsible for the crisis – financial traders and speculators – they are said to have produced ruthlessly talented graduates who have ambition in abundance but little sense for social responsibility or ethics. This ethical lack thrives upon the trading floor within a compelling critique of the complicity of the pedagogy of the business school with the financial crisis of the global economy. An ethical turn within the curriculum is now widely encouraged as a counteractive force. Within this paper, however, we argue that taking this ethical turn is not enough. For business ethicists to learn from the financial crisis, the crisis' legacy needs to be taken account of, and financialisation needs to be taken seriously. Pedagogical reform cannot bracket itself off from the crisis as if it were coincidental with or separate from it. Post‐crisis pedagogy must rather take the fact that it is requested now, in light of the crisis, as its very point of departure. The financial crisis must not be understood as something to be resisted in the name of Business Ethics. Instead, the financial crisis must be understood as the very foundation for contemporary Business Ethics in particular and for contemporary business and management education more generally.