bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel phenylacetylene based ketonic resins
Authors: Kizilcan N. , Erson B.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to report the synthesis of resins having fluorescence properties, with the help of phenylacetylene (PhAc) by one-step method of in situ modification of ketonic resin. Cyclohexanone-formaldehyde resin (CFR) and acetophenone formaldehyde resin (AFR) were in situ modified with PhAc, in presence of sodium hydroxide (NaOH) by condensation polymerisation.

Design/methodology/approach

– Ketone, formalin and phenylacetylene were mixed and then 20% aqueous NaOH solution was added to produce the phenylacethylene modified ketonic resin. The solubility, molecular weight and thermal properties of the products were investigated.

Findings

– These new PhAc-modified ketonic resins (PAc-CFR and PAc-AFR) have fluorescence properties.

Research limitations/implications

– This study focuses on obtaining a fluorescence resin using a cyclohexanone, acetophenone and PhAc monomer which is an insulator.

Practical implications

– This study provides technical information for the synthesis of fluorescence comonomers. The modified resins contain acetylene groups. A chemical redox or radical system can be used to polymerise these acetylene groups and resins with much higher molecular weight. The resins may also promote the adhesive strength of a coating and corrosion inhibition to metal surfaces of a coating.

Social implications

– The resins will be used for the preparation of AB- and ABA-type block copolymers. These block copolymers may exhibit different properties due to incorporation of monomer into the block copolymer structure.

Originality/value

– PAc-CFR and PAc-AFR have been synthesised in the presence of a basic catalyst. Higher solubility and fluorescence intensity of the modified ketonic resins may increase their applications in the field of electroactive polymers and open new areas. These comonomers have fluorescence property.
Comparison study on the effect of acid and nitrate salt on the properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) coating doped with dye consist of anthocyanin
Authors: Lee S.V. , Usop R. , Hadi A.N. , Mazni N.A. , Majid S.R. , Arof A.K. , Halim N.A. , Abidin Z.H.Z.
Published: June 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to observe the thermal and colour stabilities of coating films consisting of natural dye anthocyanin colourant with acid and nitrate salt as additives.

Design/methodology/approach

– The natural dye was extracted from Hibiscus sabdariffa L. (Roselle) by using distilled water as solvent. The extracted dye was mixed with 1 weight per cent hydrochloric acid and 5 weight per cent calcium nitrate to conduct the comparison study. The dye samples were than mixed with poly (vinyl alcohol) (PVA). The mixtures were applied on glass panels to form coating films. The coating films were left to dry for 24 hours. The thermal stability of coating films was investigated by using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). The amorphousness coating films molecular structures were observed by using x-ray diffraction (XRD). CIE L*a*b* colour coordinate space technique was used to investigate the coating films colour stability against ultraviolet (UV).

Findings

– The results show that addition of hydrochloric acid (HCl acid) enhanced thermal stability of PVA-anthocyanin coating and shifted the degradation temperature to higher temperature at 300°C. HCl acid also improved UV stability of the coating system significantly with the reduced ΔE from 26.67 to 16.89. Addition of calcium nitrate (Ca(NO3)2) salt promotes good interaction with PVA-anthocyanin system that caused structural changes, improved thermal stability and increased Tg from 61.5 to 83.1°C.

Research limitations/implications

– The potential of using natural dye extracted from plant as renewable material.

Practical implications

– The coating films developed in this works are suitable for glass substrate application.

Originality/value

– Development of water-based coating from PVA binder with anthocyanin colourant is introduced in this study.
The association of vitamin C, alcohol, coffee, tea, milk and yogurt with uric acid and gout
Authors: Towiwat Patapong , Li Zhan‐Guo
Published: June 2015

About 2500 years ago, gout was observed by Hippocrates and many people suffered severe pain and deformity. Lifestyle and diet play a significant role in gout and serum uric acid levels. Epidemiological and research studies have supported this evidence. Many recommendations and guidelines from different parts of the world mention the impact of diet on gout. Recently, new research has shown associations between vitamin C, alcohol, coffee, tea, milk and yogurt with uric acid and the risk of gout. Our review summarizes recently published research regarding dietary impact on the risk of gout and serum uric acid levels.
Quality of reporting of interventional animal studies in rheumatology: a systematic review using the ARRIVE guidelines
Authors: Ting Kimberley H.J. , Hill Catherine L. , Whittle Samuel L.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To systematically investigate the quality of reporting of published interventional animal studies in experimental rheumatology.

Methods

Original scientific publications in Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (ARD) and Arthritis and Rheumatism (A&R) from January to December 2012 were identified. Studies were included if they used animal experimental model(s) and involved a treatment intervention. Data were extracted regarding disease type, animal model, intervention type and funding. Each study was assessed for quality of reporting, using the ARRIVE guidelines as a checklist.

Results

Forty‐one studies (15 ARD, 26 A&R) were analyzed. Ethics approval was not reported or unclear in 22%. Randomization was not reported or unclear in 82.9% of the papers. Only 19.5% and 9.8% of papers reported attrition rate and important adverse events, respectively. Sample size calculation or allocation method was not reported in any paper. Only one study published negative results.

Conclusion

A number of key study design principles are poorly reported in experimental animal research investigating potential treatments in rheumatology. We support the widespread implementation of the ARRIVE guidelines in the rheumatology literature to promote the publication of manuscripts that allow rigorous appraisal of scientific quality.
A case series of 20 women with hidradenitis suppurativa treated with spironolactone
Authors: Lee Andrew , Fischer Gayle
Published: June 2015

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) is an uncommon chronic skin condition that can range in severity from a single nodule to extensive disease and can have a profound effect on quality of life. Anti‐androgen medication has been suggested as a possible management strategy in female patients with HS and is mentioned in review articles as a treatment option. Despite this, there is limited literature documenting the use of anti‐androgens in HS. We present our experience with 20 patients with HS treated with oral spironolactone. We advocate spironolactone as a useful, low‐cost first‐line treatment for women with HS, with relatively few side‐effects.
The spontaneous regression of palmoplantar pustulosis following removal of dental amalgams: A report of two cases
Authors: Liu Fang , Zhang Min , Lou Yanfeng , Liu Haibo , Sang Hong
Published: June 2015

Metal allergens are occasionally reported to be associated with palmoplantar pustulosis. We describe two severe, therapy‐resistant, chronic cases of palmoplantar pustulosis induced by metal dental fillings. Both patients' clinical findings and symptoms regressed following the removal of their metal teeth. A patch test examination revealed positive reactions to metal allergens in both cases (in Case 1 the positive reactions were to cobalt chloride hexahydrate and nickel sulfate and in Case 2 the positive reaction was to nickel sulphate). Our studies suggest that metal allergens may play an important role in the pathogenesis of palmoplantar pustulosis.
MPLA shows attenuated pro‐inflammatory properties and diminished capacity to activate mast cells in comparison with LPS
Authors: Schülke S. , Flaczyk A. , Vogel L. , Gaudenzio N. , Angers I. , Löschner B. , Wolfheimer S. , Spreitzer I. , Qureshi S. , Tsai M. , Galli S. , Vieths S. , Scheurer S.
Published: June 2015

Background

Monophosphoryl lipid A (MPLA), a nontoxic TLR4 ligand derived from lipopolysaccharide (LPS), is used clinically as an adjuvant in cancer, hepatitis, and malaria vaccines and in allergen‐specific immunotherapy. Nevertheless, its cell‐activating effects have not been analyzed in a comprehensive direct comparison including a wide range of different immune cells. Therefore, the objective of this study was the side‐by‐side comparison of the immune‐modulating properties of MPLA and LPS on different immune cells.

Methods

Immune‐activating properties of MPLA and LPS were compared in human monocytes and mast cells (MCs), a mouse endotoxin shock model (ESM), and mouse bone marrow (BM)‐derived myeloid dendritic cells (mDCs), T cells (TCs), B cells, and MCs.

Results

In a mouse in vivo ESM and a human ex vivo monocyte activation test (MAT), MPLA induced the same cytokine secretion pattern as LPS (ESM: IL‐6, IL‐12, TNF‐α; MAT: IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α), albeit at lower levels. Mouse mDCs and ex vivo isolated B cells stimulated with MPLA required a higher threshold to induce TRIF‐dependent cytokine secretion (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐10, and TNF‐α) than did LPS‐stimulated cells. In mDC:DO11.10 CD4 TC cocultures, stimulation with MPLA, but not with LPS, resulted in enhanced OVA‐specific IL‐4 and IL‐5 secretion from DO11.10 CD4 TCs. Unexpectedly, in both human and mouse MCs, MPLA, unlike LPS, did not elicit secretion of pro‐inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusions

Compared to LPS, MPLA induced a qualitatively similar, but less potent pro‐inflammatory immune response, but was unable to activate human or mouse MCs.
A randomised controlled trial of intravenous dexamethasone combined with interscalene brachial plexus blockade for shoulder surgery
Authors: Desmet M. , Vanneste B. , Reynvoet M. , Van Cauwelaert J. , Verhelst L. , Pottel H. , Missant C. , Van de Velde M.
Published: June 2015

We recruited patients scheduled for shoulder rotator cuff repair or subacromial decompression under general anaesthesia and interscalene brachial plexus blockade (30 ml ropivacaine 0.5%). We allocated 240 participants into four groups of 60 that were given pre‐operative saline 0.9% or dexamethasone 1.25 mg, 2.5 mg or 10 mg, intravenously. We recorded outcomes for 48 h. The median (IQR [range]) time to first postoperative analgesic request after saline was 12.2 (11.0–14.1 [1.8–48]) h, which was extended by intravenous dexamethasone 2.5 mg and 10 mg to 17.4 (14.9–21.5 [7.2–48]) h, p < 0.0001, and 20.1 (17.2–24.3 [1.3–48]) h, p < 0.0001, respectively, but not by dexamethasone 1.25 mg, 14.0 (12.1–17.7 [2.1–48]) h, p = 0.05. Postoperative analgesia was given sooner after rotator cuff repair than subacromial decompression, hazard ratio (95% CI) 2.2 (1.6–3.0), p < 0.0001, but later in older participants, hazard ratio (95% CI) 0.98 (0.97–0.99) per year, p < 0.0001.
Decolonizing Food Justice: Naming, Resisting, and Researching Colonizing Forces in the Movement
Authors: Bradley Katharine , Herrera Hank
Published: June 2015

Over the past 15 years social movements for community food security, food sovereignty, and food justice have organized to address the failures of the multinational, industrial food system to fairly and equitably distribute healthy, affordable, culturally appropriate real food. At the same time, these social movements, and research about them, re‐inscribe white, patriarchal systems of power and privilege. We argue that in order to correct this pattern we must relocate our social movement goals and practices within a decolonizing and feminist leadership framework. This framework challenges movement leadership and scholarship by white people who uncritically assume a natural order of leadership based on academic achievement. We analyze critical points in our collaboration over the last four years using these frameworks. Doing so highlights the challenges and possibilities for a more inclusive food justice movement and more just scholarship.
Bacteraemia in sickle cell anaemia is associated with low haemoglobin: a report of 890 admissions to a tertiary hospital in Tanzania
Authors: Makani Julie , Mgaya Josephine , Balandya Emmanuel , Msami Khadija , Soka Deogratias , Cox Sharon E. , Komba Albert N. , Rwezaula Stella , Meda Elineema , Muturi David , Kitundu Jesse , Fegan Gregory , Kirkham Fenella J. , Newton Charles R. , Snow Robert W. , Lowe Brett
Published: June 2015

Bacteraemia is a leading cause of morbidity in sickle cell anaemia (SCA), but information from studies in Africa is limited. We evaluated 890 admissions from 648 SCA patients at a tertiary hospital in Tanzania. Bacteraemia was present in 43 admissions (4·8%); isolates included Staphylococcus aureus (12/43; 28%), non‐Typhi Salmonella (9/43; 21%), Streptococcus pneumoniae (3/43; 7%) and Salmonella Typhi (2/43; 5%). Compared to SCA patients without bacteraemia, SCA patients with bacteraemia had significantly lower haemoglobin [71 g/l vs. 62 g/l, odds ratio 0·72 (95% confidence interval 0·56–0·91), P < 0·01]. Further exploration is needed of the relationship between anaemia and bacterial infections in SCA in Africa.
Disturbance Winners or Losers? Plants Bearing Extrafloral Nectaries in Brazilian Caatinga
Authors: Leal Laura C. , Andersen Alan N. , Leal Inara R.
Published: June 2015

Plants bearing extrafloral nectaries (EFNs) often have traits typical of pioneer species, and may be expected to proliferate in disturbed habitats. However, a negative effect of disturbance on visitation by attendant ants could preventEFN‐bearing plants from acting as disturbance winners. Here, we address the effects of chronic anthropogenic disturbance on the abundance ofEFN‐bearing plants and their interactions with attendant ants in Caatinga vegetation of northeastern Brazil. We recorded the abundance ofEFN‐bearing plants, proportion of plants visited by ants and composition of ant attendant species at 24 sites varying in levels of disturbance.EFN‐bearing plants as a whole did not behave as a disturbance winner group. The responses of the 13 species to increasing disturbance were highly variable, with three species declining in abundance (loser species). The richness of ant species attendingEFNs did not vary with disturbance, but species composition did. The overall proportion ofEFN‐bearing plants attended by ants per 5‐min period was not affected by disturbance. However, for the three loser species, attendance decreased from about 50 percent with low and moderate disturbance to half that with very high disturbance. We hypothesize that disturbed sites are more stressful for loser species compared with otherEFN‐bearing plants, with physiological stress resulting in lower production ofEFNsecretions and reduced attraction of ants. This would make such species double losers, with physiological stress at disturbed sites not only directly influencing their performance but also indirectly affecting it through the disruption of a key mutualism.
Quantification of Epstein–Barr virus DNA load in nasopharyngeal brushing samples in the diagnosis of nasopharyngeal carcinoma in southern China
Authors: Zheng Xiao‐Hui , Lu Li‐Xia , Li Xi‐Zhao , Jia Wei‐Hua
Published: June 2015

Nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) is highly incident in southern China, where 40% of world's new cases arise each year. Detection of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) DNA load in nasopharyngeal (NP) brush/swab samples has gradually been established as a method for diagnosis of NPC. However, its applicable value in NPC diagnosis has never been investigated in southern China. It is important to explore whether such a test could be applicable to our local population. A total of 245 consecutive participants undergoing NP brushing examination were recruited to obtain the NP brushing samples in this study. Quantitative PCR assays were used to obtain the EBV DNA load. Mann–Whitney, ANOVA and receiver operating characteristic tests were used to analyze its diagnostic value. NP brushing samples from NPC patients showed extremely high levels of EBV DNA load (mean = 46360 copy/ng DNA) compared to its expression from non‐NPC control (mean = 28 copy/ng DNA) and high‐risk control (mean = 50 copy/ng DNA) groups. It produced 96% sensitivity and 97% specificity, at the COV = 225 copy/ng DNA. Furthermore, EBV DNA load could reflect disease progress. Our data showed a better performance of EBV DNA load in NP brushing samples compared with an initial biopsy, immunoglobulin A (IgA) antibody titers to viral capsid antigen in serum and EBV DNA load in plasma. Detection of EBV DNA load in NP brushing samples could be an effective supplement for NPC diagnosis. Being minimally invasive and low cost, NP brush sampling combined with EBV DNA detection demonstrates great potential for screening high‐risk populations for NPC.
The interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 axis in ankylosing spondylitis: new advances and potentials for treatment
Authors: Jethwa H , Bowness P
Published: June 2015

Ankylosing spondylitis (AS), the most common form of spondyloarthropathy, is a chronic, progressive multi-system inflammatory disorder characteristically affecting the sacroiliac joints and axial skeleton. Although the exact mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis of AS remain to be elucidated, the presence of human leucocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 is known to markedly increase its risk of development. Current treatments include non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) blockers. In recent years, the interleukin (IL)-23/IL-17 pathway has been shown to have significance in the pathogenesis of AS and treatment modalities targeting this pathway have been shown to be beneficial in various other inflammatory conditions. This review provides an overview of the IL-23/IL-17 pathway in the pathogenesis of AS and summarizes new potential treatments for AS and related inflammatory diseases.
Dental Implants in an Aged Population: Evaluation of Periodontal Health, Bone Loss, Implant Survival, and Quality of Life
Authors: Becker William , Hujoel Philippe , Becker Burton E. , Wohrle Peter
Published: June 2015

Purpose

To evaluate aged partially and fully edentulous patients who received dental implants and were maintained over time. Further, to determine how the partially and edentulous ageing populations (65 and above) with dental implants maintain bone levels, proper oral hygiene, and perceive benefits of dental implants.

Materials and Methods

Since 1995, patients receiving dental implants have been prospectively entered into an Access‐based computerized program (Triton Tacking System). Patient demographics (age, sex), bone quality, quantity, implant location, and type of surgery have been continuously entered into the database. The database was queried for patients receiving implants (first stage) between 66 and 93 years of age. Thirty‐one patients were within this age group. Twenty‐five patients returned to the clinic for periodontal and dental implant evaluation. The Periodontal Index was used to evaluate selected teeth in terms of probing depth, bleeding on probing, plaque accumulation, and mobility. Using NIH Image J, radiographs taken at second stage and last examination were measured for changes in interproximal bone levels. Once identified, each patient anomalously filled out an abbreviated quality of health life form. Due to small sample size, descriptive statistics were used to compare clinical findings.

Results

Fifteen males ranging from 78 to 84 (mean age 84 years) years and 16 females from 66 to 93 (mean age 83 years) (age range 66–93) were contacted by phone or mail and asked to return to our office for a re‐examination. For this group, the first dental implants were placed in 1996 (n = initial two implants) and continuously recorded through 2013 (n = last seven implants). Thirty‐one patients received a total of 84 implants. Two patients were edentulous, and the remaining were partially edentulous. Four implants were lost. Between implant placement and 6‐ to 7‐year interval, 13 patients with 40 implants had a cumulative survival rate of 94.6%. Of the original group (n = 33), three were deceased, two were in nursing homes, and three could not be located.

Conclusions

Aged patients receiving dental implants had excellent implant survival rates, low periodontal disease index scores with minimal changes in interproximal bone levels. Results from this study indicate that patients with advanced age, in reasonably good health, have excellent implant survival rates, excellent quality of life scores, and can be maintained in good oral health.
Using Twitter to communicate conservation science from a professional conference
Authors: Bombaci Sara P. , Farr Cooper M. , Gallo H. Travis , Mangan Anna M. , Stinson Lani T. , Kaushik Monica , Pejchar Liba
Published: June 2015

Scientists are increasingly using Twitter as a tool for communicating science. Twitter can promote scholarly discussion, disseminate research rapidly, and extend and diversify the scope of audiences reached. However, scientists also caution that if Twitter does not accurately convey science due to the inherent brevity of this media, misinformation could cascade quickly through social media. Data on whether Twitter effectively communicates conservation science and the types of user groups receiving these tweets are lacking. To address these knowledge gaps, we examined live tweeting as a means of communicating conservation science at the 2013 International Congress for Conservation Biology (ICCB). We quantified and compared the user groups sending and reading live tweets. We also surveyed presenters to determine their intended audiences, which we compared with the actual audiences reached through live tweeting. We also asked presenters how effectively tweets conveyed their research findings. Twitter reached 14 more professional audience categories relative to those attending and live tweeting at ICCB. However, the groups often reached through live tweeting were not the presenters’ intended audiences. Policy makers and government and non‐governmental organizations were rarely reached (0%, 4%, and 6% of audience, respectively), despite the intent of the presenters. Plenary talks were tweeted about 6.9 times more than all other oral or poster presentations combined. Over half the presenters believed the tweets about their talks were effective. Ineffective tweets were perceived as vague or missing the presenters’ main message. We recommend that presenters who want their science to be communicated accurately and broadly through Twitter should provide Twitter‐friendly summaries that incorporate relevant hashtags and usernames. Our results suggest that Twitter can be used to effectively communicate speakers’ findings to diverse audiences beyond conference walls.
Private Information in Executive Compensation: The Information Role vs. The Monitoring Role of the Board
Authors: Lo Kin , Wu Serena Shuo
Published: June 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

This paper examines the effect of boards of directors’ characteristics on the use of private information in executive compensation.

Research Findings/Insights

We predict and find that boards’ competence both in information acquisition and in monitoring influences the extent to which boards use private performance measures in CEO compensation. Specifically, smaller and more independent boards with their CEOs as the board chair are found to rely more heavily on private performance measures. The documented effects of board characteristics disappear after the passage of SOX, likely due to the homogenized composition of boards and compensation committees brought by the legislated changes.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

The paper extends the literature on the board's role in executive compensation. Although prior evidence is abundant on how boards affect the alignment of CEO compensation with public performance measures, little is known about boards’ use of private information to compensate CEOs. It also extends the literature on the role of corporate boards by examining both their monitoring and information roles.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

This study offers insights to regulators regarding the role of boards of directors in monitoring and their role in private information acquisition. It highlights the importance of considering the tradeoff between these two roles when regulating corporate governance rules.
Stairs instead of elevators at the workplace decreases PCSK9 levels in a healthy population
Authors: Kamani Christel H. , Gencer Baris , Montecucco Fabrizio , Courvoisier Delphine , Vuilleumier Nicolas , Meyer Philippe , Mach François
Published: June 2015

Backgound

Regular physical activity is recommended to lower low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) in a healthy population. Inhibition of proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) was shown to reduce (LDL‐C) levels; however, the impact of physical exercise on PCSK9 levels remains unclear.

Materials and methods

We used data from 67 healthy hospital employees who participated in a 6‐month intervention promoting active use of stairs instead of elevators during 3 months, followed by 3 months without recommendation. We confirmed the degree of physical activity with estimated aerobic capacity (VO2 max) and measured serum PCSK9 levels at baseline, 3 and 6 month. Using a multilevel regression model, we analysed changes of PCSK9 levels over time adjusting for age, gender, aerobic capacity, baseline LDL‐C, and LDL‐C and body mass index (BMI) changes.

Results

At baseline, PCSK9 levels were associated with higher aerobic capacity (P‐value = 0·024). At 3 months, we observed a significant decrease in mean PCSK9 levels from 403·6 to 324·3 ng/mL (P‐value = 0·001), as well a significant decrease in mean LDL‐C levels from 3·5 to 3·3 mM (P‐value = 0·01). During this period, mean aerobic capacity (VO2 max) increased from 37·0 to 40·4 mL/kg/min (P‐value < 0·001). Physical activity was independently associated with a decrease in PCSK9 levels after adjustment for age, gender, baseline aerobic capacity, and LDL‐C and BMI changes.

Conclusion

Daily physical activity at the work place is independently associated with a decrease in PCSK9 levels over time.
Calcium‐binding proteins in focal cortical dysplasia
Authors: Kuchukhidze Giorgi , Wieselthaler‐Hölzl Anna , Drexel Meinrad , Unterberger Iris , Luef Gerhard , Ortler Martin , Becker Albert J. , Trinka Eugen , Sperk Günther
Published: June 2015

Objective

Alterations in γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA)‐ergic cortical neurons have been reported in focal cortical dysplasia (FCD)Ia/IIIa, a malformation of cortical development associated with drug‐resistant epilepsy. We compared numbers of neurons containing calcium‐binding proteins parvalbumin (PV), calbindin (CB), and calretinin (CR) and densities of respective fibers in lateral temporal lobe surgical specimens of 17 patients with FCD with 19 patients who underwent anterior temporal lobe resection due to nonlesional temporal lobe epilepsy (non‐FCD) as well as with 7 postmortem controls.

Methods

PV‐, CB‐, and CR‐immunoreactive (IR) neurons were quantitatively investigated with use of two‐dimensional cell counting and densitometry (reflecting mainly IR fibers) in cortical layers II, IV, and V.

Results

Numbers of PV‐IR neurons, ratios of PV‐containing to Nissl‐stained neurons (correcting for eventual cell loss), and densities of PV‐IR were higher in layer II of the cortex of FCD compared to non‐FCD patients. Similarly, densities of CB‐IR and CR‐IR were also higher in layers II and V, respectively, of FCD than of non‐FCD patients. Comparison with postmortem controls revealed significant higher cell numbers and fiber labeling for all three calcium‐binding proteins in FCD cortex, whereas numbers of Nissl‐stained neurons did not vary between FCD, non‐FCD, and postmortem controls. In non‐FCD versus postmortem controls, ratios of calcium‐binding protein‐IR cells to Nissl‐stained neurons were unchanged in most instances except for increased CB/Nissl ratios and CB‐IR densities in all cortical layers.

Significance

Increased numbers of PV neurons and fiber labeling in FCD compared to nondysplastic epileptic temporal neocortex and postmortem controls may be related to cortical malformation, whereas an increased number of CB‐IR neurons and fiber labeling both in FCD and non‐FCD specimens compared with postmortem controls may be associated with ongoing seizure activity. The observed changes may represent increased expression of calcium‐binding proteins and thus compensatory mechanisms for seizures and neuronal loss in drug‐resistant epilepsy.
Similarities in butterfly emergence dates among populations suggest local adaptation to climate
Authors: Roy David B. , Oliver Tom H. , Botham Marc S. , Beckmann Bjorn , Brereton Tom , Dennis Roger L. H. , Harrower Colin , Phillimore Albert B. , Thomas Jeremy A.
Published: June 2015

Phenology shifts are the most widely cited examples of the biological impact of climate change, yet there are few assessments of potential effects on the fitness of individual organisms or the persistence of populations. Despite extensive evidence of climate‐driven advances in phenological events over recent decades, comparable patterns across species' geographic ranges have seldom been described. Even fewer studies have quantified concurrent spatial gradients and temporal trends between phenology and climate. Here we analyse a large data set (~129 000 phenology measures) over 37 years across the UK to provide the first phylogenetic comparative analysis of the relative roles of plasticity and local adaptation in generating spatial and temporal patterns in butterfly mean flight dates. Although populations of all species exhibit a plastic response to temperature, with adult emergence dates earlier in warmer years by an average of 6.4 days per °C, among‐population differences are significantly lower on average, at 4.3 days per °C. Emergence dates of most species are more synchronised over their geographic range than is predicted by their relationship between mean flight date and temperature over time, suggesting local adaptation. Biological traits of species only weakly explained the variation in differences between space‐temperature and time‐temperature phenological responses, suggesting that multiple mechanisms may operate to maintain local adaptation. As niche models assume constant relationships between occurrence and environmental conditions across a species' entire range, an important implication of the temperature‐mediated local adaptation detected here is that populations of insects are much more sensitive to future climate changes than current projections suggest.
Nutritional care of elderly patients in acute care settings: A qualitative study
Authors: Gholizadeh Leila , Yazdi Khadijeh , Dehghan Nayeri Nahid , Mohammadi Eesa
Published: June 2015

Aim

Poor nutritional status is common in older adult patients. The present study aimed to explore barriers and facilitators to nutritional care of elderly patients in acute care settings.

Methods

Data were collected through individual face‐to‐face interviews with 12 registered nurses, and analyzed using interpretive description methodology.

Results

Two core themes emerged from the analysis of data: (i) neglected care, with three subthemes of “support but also independence,” “unsupportive environment” and “responsibility of the family;” and (ii) a humanitarian ethic, with two subthemes of “respect and dignity” and “humanitarian care.”

Conclusions

As an integral part of holistic care, elderly patient nutrition should be emphasised in health professional education, and promoted through managerial support, multidisciplinary collaborations, and implementation of appropriate monitoring and evaluation systems. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 16: 374–379.
Electrical Resistivity Imaging of Seawater Intrusion into the Monterey Bay Aquifer System
Authors: Pidlisecky A. , Moran T. , Hansen B. , Knight R.
Published: June 2015

We use electrical resistivity tomography to obtain a 6.8‐km electrical resistivity image to a depth of approximately 150 m.b.s.l. along the coast of Monterey Bay. The resulting image is used to determine the subsurface distribution of saltwater‐ and freshwater‐saturated sediments and the geologic controls on fluid distributions in the region. Data acquisition took place over two field seasons in 2011 and 2012. To maximize our ability to image both vertical and horizontal variations in the subsurface, a combination of dipole–dipole, Wenner, Wenner‐gamma, and gradient measurements were made, resulting in a large final dataset of approximately 139,000 data points. The resulting resistivity section extends to a depth of 150 m.b.s.l., and is used, in conjunction with the gamma logs from four coastal monitoring wells to identify four dominant lithologic units. From these data, we are able to infer the existence of a contiguous clay layer in the southern portion of our transect, which prevents downward migration of the saltwater observed in the upper 25 m of the subsurface to the underlying freshwater aquifer. The saltwater and brackish water in the northern portion of the transect introduce the potential for seawater intrusion into the hydraulically connected freshwater aquifer to the south, not just from the ocean, but also laterally from north to south.
Paradoxes of sustainable food and consumer coping strategies: a comparative study in France and Italy
Authors: Moruzzi Romina , Sirieix Lucie
Published: June 2015

This article aims to study consumer behaviour towards the paradoxes of Sustainable Food (SF). Consumers may perceive various paradoxes today affecting the sustainable marketing offer, e.g. the concept of the sustainable product, its environment and actors offering these products. Consequently, they cope with these perceptions through different strategies. By adapting Mick and Fournier's (1998) model to SF we investigate two main classes of coping mechanism: avoidance strategies and problem‐solving strategies. In order to understand what consumers perceive and how they act in everyday life, we conducted semistructured interviews in two specific countries (France and Italy) using two different consumer profiles: 84 non‐engaged individuals and 18 consumers who had already engaged in networks supporting local food purchases, such as members of the Association for the Preservation of Local Farming (AMAP) in France and the Solidarity Purchasing Groups (GAS) in Italy. Findings show different combinations of paradoxes and strategies between non‐engaged French and Italian consumers. Their discourses highlight the influence of the context and cultural conditions of each country, whereas participants in AMAP and GAS seem to be similar when they evoke paradoxes and the way they act on the basis of a common culture. In conclusion, the article presents contributions to the conceptual framework, the model adaptation and discusses barriers to Sustainable Consumption (SC) in France and Italy.
Big Data, Official Statistics and Some Initiatives by the Australian Bureau of Statistics
Authors: Tam Siu‐Ming , Clarke Frederic
Published: June 2015

Official statisticians have been dealing with a diversity of data sources for decades. However, new sources of data in the Big Data domain provide an opportunity to deliver a more efficient and effective statistical service. This paper outlines a number of considerations for the official statistician when deciding whether to embrace a particular new data source in the regular production of official statistics. The principal considerations are relevance, business benefit, and the validity of using the source for official statistics in finite population inferences or analytic inferences. The paper also describes the Big Data Flagship Project of the Australian Bureau of Statistics (ABS), which has been established to provide the opportunity for the ABS to gain practical experience in assessing the business, statistical, technical, computational and other issues in using Big Data. In addition, ABS participation in national and international activities in this area will help it share experience and knowledge, while collaboration with academics will enable ABS to better acquire the capability to address business problems using the new sources of data as part of the solution.
Differential Interaction Between PAV‐like Isolates of Barley Yellow Dwarf Virus and Barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) genotypes
Authors: Chalhoub B. A. , Sarrafi A. , Beuve M. A. , Lapierre H. D.
Published: June 2015

Four PAV‐like isolates of barley yellow dwarf virus (BYDV) were identified as causing very severe (RG), severe (2t), moderately severe (3b) and mild symptoms (13t) in barley (Hordeum vulgare) cultivar Plaisant in a growth chamber at 25 days after inoculation. These isolates had different effects on a range of barley genotypes. Cultivar Vixen, which contains the Yd2 resistance gene, and 80–81BQCB10 were not affected by any isolate. Five other genotypes were significantly affected by at least one of the isolates. Line Ea52 (which is a mutant of the Japanese cultivar Chikurine Ibaraki) was more susceptible to BYDV‐PAV than Chikurin Ibaraki 1.

No serological differences were detected between the four isolates using monoclonal or polyclonal antibodies. Virus antigen concentration, estimated by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA), was correlated with the decrease in the shoot fresh weight for all isolates and all genotypes except for Vixen and 80–81BQCB10.

In field tests, the severity of symptoms induced by the BYDV‐PAV isolates was in accordance with that estimated in the growth chamber. However isolate 2t was more severe on cultivar Vixen and overcame the partial resistance of Chikurin Ibaraki 1 to the three other isolates.

The results show that virus antigen concentration not only contributes to characterizing the resistance levels of barley genotypes but also the severity of BYDV‐PAV isolates.
The Grouping of Strains of Pseudomonas syringae subsp. savastanoi by DNA Restriction Fingerprinting
Authors: Mugnai L. , Giovannetti L. , Ventura S. , Surico G.
Published: June 2015

A selected group of strains of Pseudomonas syringae subsp. savastanoi from olive, oleander and ash were compared with pathogenicity tests and with DNA restriction fingerprinting using sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and silver staining. The strains from each host were distinguishable by their pathogenicity to the same host and to the other two plant species. A division into the same groups was obtained with unweighted pair‐group method with averages (UPGMA) clustering of the data from genomic fingerprinting, even though high overall similarity between the strains also indicated that they formed a single, well characterized taxon. It seems clear that the subspecies savastanoi of P. syringae comprises at least 3 groups of strains that differ in their precise host range, in the nature of the symptoms induced on the individual hosts, and in their genomic profile.
An Investigation of Digestion Methods for Trace Elements in Bauxite and Their Determination in Ten Bauxite Reference Materials Using Inductively Coupled Plasma‐Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Zhang Wen , Qi Liang , Hu Zhaochu , Zheng Cunjiang , Liu Yongsheng , Chen Haihong , Gao Shan , Hu Shenghong
Published: June 2015

Trace elements from samples of bauxite deposits can provide useful information relevant to the exploration of the ore‐forming process. Sample digestion is a fundamental and critical stage in the process of geochemical analysis, which enables the acquisition of accurate trace element data by ICP‐MS. However, the conventional bomb digestion method with HF/HNO3 results in a significant loss of rare earth elements (REEs) due to the formation of insoluble AlF3 precipitates during the digestion of bauxite samples. In this study, the digestion capability of the following methods was investigated: (a) ‘Mg‐addition’ bomb digestion, (b) NH4HF2 open vessel digestion and (c) NH4F open vessel digestion. ‘Mg‐addition’ bomb digestion can effectively suppress the formation of AlF3 and simultaneously ensure the complete decomposition of resistant minerals in bauxite samples. The addition of MgO to the bauxite samples resulted in (Mg + Ca)/Al ratios ≥ 1. However, adding a large amount of MgO leads to significant blank contamination for some transition elements (V, Cr, Ni and Zn). The NH4HF2 or NH4F open vessel digestion methods can also completely digest resistant minerals in bauxite samples in a short period of time (5 hr). Unlike conventional bomb digestion with HF/HNO3, the white precipitates and the semi‐transparent gels present in the NH4HF2 and NH4F digestion methods could be efficiently dissolved by evaporation with HClO4. Based on these three optimised digestion methods, thirty‐seven trace elements including REEs in ten bauxite reference materials (RMs) were determined by ICP‐MS. The data obtained showed excellent inter‐method reproducibility (agreement within 5% for REEs). The relative standard deviation (% RSD) for most elements was < 6%. The concentrations of trace elements in the ten bauxite RMs showed agreement with the limited certified (Li, V, Cr, Cu, Zn, Ga, Sr, Zr and Pb) and information values (Co, Ba, Ce and Hf) available. New trace element data for the ten RMs are provided, some of which for the first time.
Post‐politics and the future of the left
Authors: Glaser Eliane
Published: June 2015

Eliane Glaser lays out six big questions for the left – social democrats, radicals and the new ‘soft’ left alike. After four decades of neoliberal domination, she says, now is not the time to be shy of debate.
A defeat to reckon with: On Scotland, economic competence, and the complexities of Labour's losses
Authors: Curtice John
Published: June 2015

There is no single straightforward explanation for Labour's election losses, either in Scotland or in Britain as a whole. But to win a fresh hearing among key demographics, writes John Curtice, the party must convince voters that it can create a better and more appealing economy, not just competently steward it.
Midlife crisis? Spanish democracy at 40
Authors: Bosco Anna
Published: June 2015

After 40 years of unmatched political stability, Spain's political landscape has been suddenly reshaped by two insurgent, populist forces, Podemos and Ciudadanos. Anna Bosco looks at the factors that maintained the two‐party system for so long, and why that system seems to have so rapidly fractured.
Two single nucleotide polymorphisms in the promoter of the ovine myostatin gene (MSTN) and their effect on growth and carcass muscle traits in New Zealand Romney sheep
Authors: Wang J. , Zhou H. , Hu J. , Li S. , Luo Y. , Hickford J.G.H.
Published: June 2015

Myostatin is a negative regulator of muscle growth and development in mammals, and variation in ovine myostatin gene (MSTN) has been demonstrated to be associated with variation in the muscularity of sheep. Polymerase chain reaction–single‐stranded conformational polymorphism (PCR–SSCP) was used to look for single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in a 304‐bp amplicon from the promoter region of ovine MSTN. Sequence analyses revealed two previously identified SNPs (c.−2449G/C and c. −2379T/C) that resulted in three haplotypes (H1 (c.[−2449G; −2379C]), H2 (c.[−2449C; −2379C]) and H3 (c.[−2449G; −2379T]). The effect of these SNPs on growth and carcass traits was investigated in 357 NZ Romney lambs. General linear mixed‐effect models revealed that sheep with the genotype c.−2449GC had a higher loin meat yield (p = 0.032) and proportion loin yield (p = 0.028), than those with the genotype c.−2449GG. The genotype c.−2379CC was associated with an increase in three weight traits: birthweight (p = 0.003), tailing weight (p = 0.009) and weaning weight (p = 0.028), when compared with the genotype c.−2379TC, but it was not found to have an association with growth rate. This suggests that c.−2379T/C has an effect that originates at, or before birth. Haplotype H3 was associated with a decrease in birthweight (p = 0.002), tailing weight (p = 0.003) and weaning weight (p = 0.011). Haplotype H2 was associated with increased loin yield (p = 0.012) and proportion loin yield (p = 0.002). The SNPs may have value as genetic markers for improved Romney breeding.
The role of tanycytes in hypothalamic glucosensing
Authors: Elizondo‐Vega Roberto , Cortes‐Campos Christian , Barahona Maria J. , Oyarce Karina A. , Carril Claudio A. , García‐Robles Maria A.
Published: June 2015

Tanycytes are elongated hypothalamic glial cells that cover the basal walls of the third ventricle; their apical regions contact the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and their processes reach hypothalamic neuronal nuclei that control the energy status of an organism. These nuclei maintain the balance between energy expenditure and intake, integrating several peripheral signals and triggering cellular responses that modify the feeding behaviour and peripheral glucose homeostasis. One of the most important and well‐studied signals that control this process is glucose; however, the mechanism by which this molecule is sensed remains unknown. We along with others have proposed that tanycytes play a key role in this process, transducing changes in CSF glucose concentration to the neurons that control energy status. Recent studies have demonstrated the expression and function of monocarboxylate transporters and canonical pancreatic β cell glucose sensing molecules, including glucose transporter 2 and glucokinase, in tanycytes. These and other data, which will be discussed in this review, suggest that hypothalamic glucosensing is mediated through a metabolic interaction between tanycytes and neurons through lactate. This article will summarize the recent evidence that supports the importance of tanycytes in hypothalamic glucosensing, and discuss the possible mechanisms involved in this process. Finally, it is important to highlight that a detailed analysis of this mechanism could represent an opportunity to understand the evolution of associated pathologies, including diabetes and obesity, and identify new candidates for therapeutic intervention.
Endothelial microparticles reduce ICAM‐1 expression in a microRNA‐222‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Jansen Felix , Yang Xiaoyan , Baumann Katharina , Przybilla David , Schmitz Theresa , Flender Anna , Paul Kathrin , Alhusseiny Adil , Nickenig Georg , Werner Nikos
Published: June 2015

Endothelial microparticles (EMP) are released from activated or apoptotic endothelial cells (ECs) and can be taken up by adjacent ECs, but their effect on vascular inflammation after engulfment is largely unknown. We sought to determine the role of EMP in EC inflammation. In vitro, EMP treatment significantly reduced tumour necrosis factor‐α‐induced endothelial intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1 expression on mRNA and protein level, whereas there was no effect on vascular cell adhesion molecule‐1 expression. Reduced ICAM‐1 expression after EMP treatment resulted in diminished monocyte adhesion in vitro. In vivo, systemic treatment of ApoE−/− mice with EMP significantly reduced murine endothelial ICAM‐1 expression. To explore the underlying mechanisms, Taqman microRNA array was performed and microRNA (miR)‐222 was identified as the strongest regulated miR between EMP and ECs. Following experiments demonstrated that miR‐222 was transported into recipient ECs by EMP and functionally regulated expression of its target protein ICAM‐1 in vitro and in vivo. After simulating diabetic conditions, EMP derived from glucose‐treated ECs contained significantly lower amounts of miR‐222 and showed reduced anti‐inflammatory capacity in vitro and in vivo. Finally, circulating miR‐222 level was diminished in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) compared to patients without CAD. EMPs promote anti‐inflammatory effects in vitro and in vivo by reducing endothelial ICAM‐1 expression via the transfer of functional miR‐222 into recipient cells. In pathological hyperglycaemic conditions, EMP‐mediated miR‐222‐dependent anti‐inflammatory effects are reduced.