bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Incorporating learning study in a teacher education program in Hong Kong: a case study
Authors: Yee Lai Mun , Wah Priscilla Lo‐Fu Yin
Published: January 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to report a case study of how learning study was incorporated in teacher education programs in Hong Kong. It aims to share the success of the program and to disseminate how pre‐service teachers enhanced their mathematical content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge by practising learning study. Building on the work, this paper suggests incorporating the framework of learning study, a theory‐guided pedagogical principle, as an integrated subject of mathematics pedagogy and teaching practice in teacher education programs.

Design/methodology/approach

In total 32 pre‐service teachers’ learning journals of their reflections of learning processes were analyzed. The analysis of data and reporting of findings are linked tightly to how pre‐service teachers enhanced their mathematical content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge by practising learning study.

Findings

The 32 pre‐service teachers noted that the learning study subject fostered their understanding of relationship between theory and practice and their understanding of transforming knowledge into action. In particular, they came to understand that knowledge of pupils and content involves a particular mathematical idea or procedure and familiarity with students’ prior knowledge and misconceptions. They also reported that they understood better what mathematics pedagogy content knowledge means and what components it includes.

Originality/value

The suggestions of incorporating the framework of learning study in teacher education programs is supported and manifested by the positive feedback and comments of the 32 pre‐service teachers who underwent the entire learning process of learning study in Hong Kong. The findings demonstrate how pre‐service teachers’ mathematical content knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge were enhanced by practising learning study.
Understanding the dimensions of home that impact on home modification decision making
Authors: Aplin Tammy , de Jonge Desleigh , Gustafsson Louise
Published: January 2013

Background/aim

The home environment is a multidimensional and personally meaningful place, and the complexity of this environment often impacts on the home modification process and outcomes. Home modifications can appear as a straightforward solution to safety and occupational performance concerns; nevertheless, clients sometimes reject modifications or are unsatisfied with the completed works. To understand this phenomenon, this study aimed to determine what aspects of the home environment impact home modification decision making.

Method

In this qualitative descriptive study, 42 in‐depth interviews using a semi‐structured questionnaire were undertaken and analysed using a template analysis. The interviews explored the experience of the home modification process, including concerns and the decisions made about the modifications.

Findings

Four dimensions of the home environment were commonly found to affect decision making namely, the personal, societal, physical and temporal dimensions of home as well as social and occupational dimensions.

Conclusions

An understanding of the dimensions of home that impact decision making provides occupational therapists with a greater appreciation of the experience of home and allows them to enhance the effectiveness and acceptance of home modifications.
Understanding the sensory experiences of young people with autism spectrum disorder: A preliminary investigation
Authors: Ashburner Jill , Bennett Laura , Rodger Sylvia , Ziviani Jenny
Published: January 2013

Background/aim

Unusual responses to sensations can impact upon the daily activities for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. Current understandings of these sensory experiences have been drawn from the proxy reports from parents/caregivers, standardised self‐report questionnaires and autobiographical accounts. As sensory experiences are intensely personal, the first‐hand accounts of people with autism spectrum disorder may have greater validity than caregiver reports, but these have never been systematically researched. This study explored the utility of using a semi‐structured interview protocol augmented with visual cues to facilitate our understanding of the way people with autism spectrum disorder experience sensory input, and use coping strategies to manage sensory issues that interfere with participation.

Method

A semi‐structured interview augmented by visual cues was used to investigate the sensory experiences of three adolescent males with autism spectrum disorder. As is common in this population, two of the participants also had a diagnosis of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder and were taking stimulant medication.

Results

Participants shared a preference for expected, predictable and controllable sensory input, whereas unexpected, unpredictable and uncontrollable sensations were perceived as unpleasant. A heightened awareness of and difficulty filtering extraneous sensory input, high levels of movement seeking and an over‐focus on salient sensory input were also described. Strategies employed to manage sensory challenges included avoiding, increasing predictability and control and meta‐cognitive adaptations.

Conclusions

Further research involving a larger sample of participants is recommended to determine the utility of using a semi‐structured interview protocol augmented with visual cues to understand the sensory experiences of individuals with high‐functioning autism spectrum disorder.
Impact of protist grazing on a key bacterial group for biogeochemical cycling in Baltic Sea pelagic oxic/anoxic interfaces
Authors: Anderson Ruth , Wylezich Claudia , Glaubitz Sabine , Labrenz Matthias , Jürgens Klaus
Published: January 2013

Barrier zones between oxic and anoxic water masses (redoxclines) host highly active prokaryotic communities with important roles in biogeochemical cycling. In Baltic Sea pelagic redoxclines, Epsilonproteobacteria of the genus Sulfurimonas (subgroup GD17) have been shown to dominate chemoautotrophic denitrification. However, little is known on the loss processes affecting this prokaryotic group. In the present study, the protist grazing impact on the Sulfurimonas subgroup GD17 was determined for suboxic and oxygen/hydrogen sulphide interface depths of Baltic Sea redoxclines, using predator exclusion assays and bacterial amendment with the cultured representative ‘Sulfurimonas gotlandica’ strain GD1. Additionally, the principal bacterivores were identified by RNA‐Stable Isotope Probing (RNA‐SIP). The natural Sulfurimonas subgroup GD17 population grew strongly under oxygen/hydrogen sulphide interface conditions (doubling time: 1–1.5 days), but protist grazing could consume the complete new cell production per day. In suboxic samples, little or no growth of Sulfurimonas subgroup GD17 was observed. RNA‐SIP identified five active grazers, belonging to typical redoxcline ciliates (Oligohymenophorea, Prostomatea) and globally widespread marine flagellate groups (MAST‐4, Chrysophyta, Cercozoa). Overall, we demonstrate for the first time that protist grazing can control the growth, and potentially the vertical distribution, of a chemolithoautotrophic key‐player of oxic/anoxic interfaces.
Evidenced based practice: who do we need to convince?
Authors: Rivett Mark
Published: January 2013

Podcast
Chronic care infrastructures and the home
Authors: Langstrup Henriette
Published: January 2013

In this article I argue that attention to the spatial and material dimensions of chronic disease management and its place‐making effects is necessary if we are to understand the implications of the increased mobilisation – technologically or otherwise – of the home in chronic disease management. Analysing home treatment in asthma and haemophilia care, I argue that in relation to chronic disease management the home is not only always connected to the clinic but moreover, what the home is in part depends on the specificities of these attachments. Drawing primarily on the work of Susan Leigh Star and scholars of human geography I propose the concept of chronic care infrastructures designating the often inconspicuous socio‐material elements (such as medication, control visits, phone calls, doses and daily routines), which are embedded in everyday life (of both the clinic and the home) and participate in producing the effect of treatment but also the effect of home. These chronic care infrastructures demand the emplacement of various objects and activities in everyday life and thus relate to negotiations of ‘keepings’– what to keep and care for and where to grant it room vis á vis other ‘keepings’.
Fractal Crises – A New Path for Crisis Theory and Management
Authors: Topper Benjamin , Lagadec Patrick
Published: January 2013

This paper is a modest contribution to the vast exploration to be embarked upon as our maps appear increasingly outdated. We will first explore some outmoded ‘taken for granted’ assumptions and visions: this section aims to clarify why the crisis management world has profoundly changed and how the current understanding of crises and theoretical frameworks is becoming increasingly less adequate. Then, we will try to meet the second challenge of this special issue, by suggesting innovative approaches that will contribute to elaborate the building blocks of a theory of crisis management. We will propose a new theoretical framework, through the use of a fractal approach, following the footsteps of Benoit Mandelbrot, in order to rethink and capture the essence of the new theatre of operations that must be dealt with. Throughout, we will show how this original framework could be put into practice and what its limitations and perspectives are.
The 2008 Anti‐French Demonstrations in China: Learning from a Social Media Crisis
Authors: Denis‐Remis Cédric , Lebraty Jean‐Fabrice , Philippe Hervé
Published: January 2013

In this article, we propose to revisit the China of April 2008 and ponder on one major event that happened that year: the boycott of the Carrefour stores, which resulted in an unprecedented display of demonstrations and protests. After having proposed an original theoretical framework (the information cascade), we move on to carry out a detailed reading of this case in order to learn from it and have a better understanding of current crises.
Repeated pulse feeding induces functional stability in anaerobic digestion
Authors: De Vrieze Jo , Verstraete Willy , Boon Nico
Published: January 2013

Anaerobic digestion is an environmental key technology in the future bio‐based economy. To achieve functional stability, a minimal microbial community diversity is required. This microbial community should also have a certain ‘elasticity’, i.e. the ability to rapidly adapt to suboptimal conditions or stress. In this study it was evaluated whether a higher degree of functional stability could be achieved by changing the feeding pattern, which can change the evenness, dynamics and richness of the bacterial community. The first reactor (CSTRstable) was fed on daily basis, whereas the second reactor (CSTRdynamic) was fed every 2 days. Average biogas production was 0.30 l CH4 l−1 day−1 in both reactors, although daily variation was up to four times higher in the CSTRdynamic compared with the CSTRstable during the first 50 days. Bacterial analysis revealed that this CSTRdynamic had a two times higher degree of bacterial community dynamics. The CSTRdynamic also appeared to be more tolerant to an organic shock load of 8 g COD l−1 and ammonium levels up to 8000 mg TAN l−1. These results suggest that the regular application of a limited pulse of organic material and/or a variation in the substrate composition might promote higher functional stability in anaerobic digestion.
Current production in a microbial fuel cell using a pure culture of Cupriavidus basilensis growing in acetate or phenol as a carbon source
Authors: Friman Hen , Schechter Alex , Ioffe Yulia , Nitzan Yeshayahu , Cahan Rivka
Published: January 2013

A microbial fuel cell (MFC) was operated with a pure culture of Cupriavidus basilensis bacterial cells growing in the anode compartment in a defined medium containing acetate or phenol. Operating this mediator‐less MFC under a constant external resistor of 1 kΩ with acetate or phenol led to current generation of 902 and 310 mA m−2 respectively. In the MFC which was operated using acetate or phenol, the current density measured from the plankton bacterial cells with a fresh electrode was 125 and 109 mA m−2, respectively, whereas the current obtained with biofilm‐covered electrodes in sterile medium was 541 and 228 mA m−2 respectively. After 72 h in the MFC, 86% of the initial phenol concentration was removed, while only 64% was removed after the same time in the control MFC which was held at an open circuit potential (OCP). Furthermore, SEM and confocal microscopy analyses demonstrated a developed biofilm with a live C. basilensis population. In conclusion, in this study we demonstrated, for the first time, use of C. basilensis facultative aerobe bacterial cells in a MFC using acetate or phenol as the sole carbon source which led to electricity generation.
Trends in bacterial trehalose metabolism and significant nodes of metabolic pathway in the direction of trehalose accumulation
Authors: Ruhal Rohit , Kataria Rashmi , Choudhury Bijan
Published: January 2013

The current knowledge of trehalose biosynthesis under stress conditions is incomplete and needs further research. Since trehalose finds industrial and pharmaceutical applications, enhanced accumulation of trehalose in bacteria seems advantageous for commercial production. Moreover, physiological role of trehalose is a key to generate stress resistant bacteria by metabolic engineering. Although trehalose biosynthesis requires few metabolites and enzyme reactions, it appears to have a more complex metabolic regulation. Trehalose biosynthesis in bacteria is known through three pathways – OtsAB, TreYZ and TreS. The interconnections of in vivo synthesis of trehalose, glycogen or maltose were most interesting to investigate in recent years. Further, enzymes at different nodes (glucose‐6‐P, glucose‐1‐P and NDP‐glucose) of metabolic pathways influence enhancement of trehalose accumulation. Most of the study of trehalose biosynthesis was explored in medically significant Mycobacterium, research model Escherichia coli, industrially applicable Corynebacterium and food and probiotic interest Propionibacterium freudenreichii. Therefore, the present review dealt with the trehalose metabolism in these bacteria. In addition, an effort was made to recognize how enzymes at different nodes of metabolic pathway can influence trehalose accumulation.
Negativation of type 1 diabetes‐associated autoantibodies to glutamic acid decarboxylase and insulin in children treated with oral calcitriol (口服骨化三醇治疗维持儿童1型糖尿病相关的谷氨酸脱羧酶与胰岛素自身抗体阴性)
Authors: Papadimitriou Dimitrios T. , Marakaki Chrisanthi , Fretzayas Andreas , Nicolaidou Polyxeni , Papadimitriou Anastasios
Published: January 2013

Background

Based on recent knowledge of the possible involvement of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D in the pathogenesis of type 1 diabetes (T1D) and the results of its administration in animal models, we conducted a clinical trial by treating high‐risk children, positive for T1D autoantibodies, with oral calcitriol.

Methods

The present prospective trial was performed on 12 children (1.5–13 years old) who were investigated for the potential risk of T1D because of an already diagnosed association of celiac disease and autoimmune thyroiditis (four girls), autoimmune thyroiditis at a very young age (two girls, two boys), a diagnosis of T1D in siblings (two boys), and impaired glucose tolerance (IGT; one boy, one girl). Serum autoantibody levels, including islet cell autoantibodies, anti‐glutamic acid decarboxylase (GAD) 65, insulin autoantibodies (IAA), and anti‐tyrosine phosphatase, and markers of calcium metabolism were evaluated prior to and at 6‐monthly intervals after the initiation of 0.25 μg/day calcitriol for 1–3 years.

Results

In all children, persistent negativation of the anti‐GAD65 antibodies and IAA was observed within 0.4–2.1 years. Of the two children with IGT, the boy proved to have maturity onset diabetes of the young (MODY) 2, whereas the glycemic profile was normalized in the girl.

Conclusions

Despite the small number of subjects and the absence of a control group in the present study, 0.25 μg/day calcitriol effectively negativates anti‐GAD65 antibodies and IAA after a median time of 6 months. This simple, safe, and low‐cost strategy may prove effective in the prevention of T1D in the future.
Ability of radiation therapists to assess radiation‐induced skin toxicity
Authors: Acharya Urvi , Cox Jennifer , Rinks Marianne , Gaur Pankaj , Back Michael
Published: January 2013

Introduction

Radiation therapy has seen enhancement of the radiation therapist (RT) role, with RTs and nurses performing duties that were traditionally in the radiation oncologist's (RO) domain. This study aimed to assess whether RTs can consistently grade radiation‐induced skin toxicity and their concordance with the gradings given by ROs.

Method

Digital photographs of skin reactions were taken at weeks 1, 3 and 6 of radiotherapy on nine patients with breast cancer. The randomly ordered photographs were reviewed once by eight ROs and four RO registrars and on two occasions separated by 6 weeks by 17 RTs. All graded the skin toxicities using the revised Radiation Therapy Oncology Group system.

Results

No significant difference was seen between the median scores of the RTs at the first scoring session and the RO/Registrar group. The RTs at both measurement times showed greater inter‐rater reliability than the RO/Registrars (W = 0.6866, time 1 and 0.6981 time 2, vs. 0.6517), with the experienced RTs the most consistent (W = 0.7078). The RTs also showed high intra‐rater reliability (rho = 0.8461, P < 0.0010).

Conclusion

These results from RTs with no specific preparation indicate that experienced RTs could assess breast cancer skin toxicity as part of their role.
The transition from freshwater to marine iron‐oxidizing bacterial lineages along a salinity gradient on the Sheepscot River, Maine, USA
Authors: McBeth Joyce M. , Fleming Emily J. , Emerson David
Published: January 2013

Oxygen‐dependent, neutrophilic iron‐oxidizing bacteria (FeOB) are important drivers of iron transformations in marine and freshwater environments. Despite remarkable similarities in physiology and morphotype, known freshwater and marine FeOB are clustered in different classes of Proteobacteria; freshwater FeOB in the Betaproteobacteria and marine FeOB in the Zetaproteobacteria. To determine effects of salinity on these microbes, we examined the mineral biosignatures and molecular ecology of bacteria in FeOB mats collected along an estuarine salinity gradient. Light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy analyses showed the presence of iron oxide stalk and sheath structures in both freshwater and saline iron mats. Results of tagged pyrosequencing, quantitative PCR and fluorescent in situ hybridization, all based on the small subunit rRNA gene, confirmed Zetaproteobacteria were not present in freshwater mats, but were in saline mats at salinities down to 5‰. Among the Betaproteobacteria, Leptothrix spp. were only found in the freshwater mat. Gallionella spp. were limited to freshwater and low salinity mats (< 5‰). Sideroxydans sp. were salt tolerant; however, their relative abundance decreased with increasing salinity. These results suggest salinity is important in shaping the population biology of iron mat communities, and some coexistence between marine and freshwater populations occurs in brackish waters.
A comparison of oxycodone prolonged‐release vs. oxycodone + naloxone prolonged‐release after laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: COMELON M. , WISLOEFF‐AASE K. , RAEDER J. , DRAEGNI T. , UNDERSRUD H. , QVIGSTAD E. , BJERKELUND C. E. , LENZ H.
Published: January 2013

Background

Targiniq®, an oxycodone prolonged‐release (PR) formulation combined with the opioid antagonist naloxone PR, aims to prevent opioid‐induced constipation without impairing the analgesic efficacy. This has been confirmed during prolonged use in chronic pain or cancer patients. The purpose of our study was to compare clinical effects of oxycodone PR with oxycodone PR + naloxone PR for short‐term post‐operative pain management.

Methods

This randomised, double‐blind, prospective study included 85 women undergoing laparoscopic hysterectomy. The two groups received either oxycodone PR 10 mg or oxycodone PR 10 mg + naloxone PR 5 mg as pre‐medication and twice daily for 3 days. As rescue analgesic, the patients received oxycodone intravenous during the first 24 h post‐operatively and oxycodone tablets in the 24–72‐h period. Constipation, other side effects, pain and satisfaction were registered during the first 7 post‐operative days.

Results

Demographic, pre‐ and perioperative variables and the use of rescue analgesics were similar in the groups. There were no significant differences in variables related to constipation. In the oxycodone PR + naloxone PR group, 25% had no defecation during the first 72 h post‐operatively, compared with 20% in the oxycodone PR group (mean 1.2 ± 1.1 vs. 2.1 ± 2.4 defecations). Other opioid‐induced effects and side effects showed no significant differences. Only 7% were dissatisfied with their oral pain treatment.

Conclusion

Addition of naloxone to oxycodone PR tablets in a pain regimen administered twice daily the first three post‐operative days had no significant clinical effects on constipation or other variables during the first week after hysterectomy.
How Many Countries for Multilevel Modeling? A Comparison of Frequentist and Bayesian Approaches
Authors: Stegmueller Daniel
Published: January 2013

Researchers in comparative research increasingly use multilevel models to test effects of country‐level factors on individual behavior and preferences. However, the asymptotic justification of widely employed estimation strategies presumes large samples and applications in comparative politics routinely involve only a small number of countries. Thus, researchers and reviewers often wonder if these models are applicable at all. In other words, how many countries do we need for multilevel modeling? I present results from a large‐scale Monte Carlo experiment comparing the performance of multilevel models when few countries are available. I find that maximum likelihood estimates and confidence intervals can be severely biased, especially in models including cross‐level interactions. In contrast, the Bayesian approach proves to be far more robust and yields considerably more conservative tests.
Accidental out‐of‐hospital deliveries: a case–control study
Authors: Renesme L , Garlantézec R , Anouilh F , Bertschy F , Carpentier M , Sizun J
Published: January 2013

Aim

To determine risk factors for accidental out‐of‐hospital deliveries (OHDs), which represent 0.5% of live births in France and are associated with poor neonatal outcomes.

Methods

This retrospective case–control study assessed accidental OHDs that occurred in the Finistère District (Brittany, France) between January 2007 and December 2009. For each OHD case, two controls were randomly selected. Outcome measures included maternal demographics, obstetric characteristics and neonatal outcomes.

Results

During the study period, accidental OHDs accounted for 0.42% of all births; 76 accidental OHDs were included in the analysis. Multivariate analysis found four independent risk factors for accidental OHD: multiparity [OR: 8.84 (3.22–24.29)], unemployment [OR: 4.99 (1.85–13.47)], lack of or poor antenatal care [OR: 9.00 (2.41–33.72)] and a travel time >45 min from home to the delivery unit [OR: 6.18 (1.33–28.65) versus < 15 min]. Significantly more newborns from the OHD group required admission to the neonatal unit (p = 0.04), but accidental OHD was not significantly associated with prematurity or low birth weight.

Conclusion

Four risk factors for accidental OHD were identified. Setting up an anonymous registry of OHD cases could improve our knowledge and screening of women at risk.
Handheld Portable X‐Ray Fluorescence of Aegean Obsidians
Authors: Frahm E. , Doonan R. , Kilikoglou V.
Published: January 2013

We tested two portable XRF instruments (with different technologies) using two correction schemes (‘soils’ and ‘mining’) with both factory‐set calibrations and linear regression calibrations derived from published data. All four Aegean obsidian sources, including Sta Nychia and Dhemenegaki on Melos, were distinguished in each case. The newer instrument provided better ‘off‐the‐shelf’ accuracy than the older instrument, but calibrations negated these differences. The newer model also offered superior precision for most elements, despite measuring specimens for shorter times. Both correction schemes for the newer instrument resulted in almost equal precision, meaning that either may be used for successful Aegean obsidian sourcing.
Miniaturized antibodies for imaging membrane type‐1 matrix metalloproteinase in cancers
Authors: Kondo Naoya , Temma Takashi , Shimizu Yoichi , Watanabe Hiroyuki , Higano Keiichi , Takagi Yoko , Ono Masahiro , Saji Hideo
Published: January 2013

Since membrane type‐1 matrix metalloproteinase (MT1‐MMP) plays pivotal roles in tumor progression and metastasis and holds great promise as an early biomarker for malignant tumors, a method of evaluating MT1‐MMP expression levels would be valuable for molecular biological and clinical studies. Although we have previously developed a 99mTc‐labeled anti‐MT1‐MMP monoclonal IgG (99mTc‐MT1‐mAb) as an MT1‐MMP imaging probe by nuclear medical techniques for this purpose, slow pharmacokinetics were a problem due to its large molecular size. Thus, in this study, our aim was to develop miniaturized antibodies, a single chain antibody fragment (MT1‐scFv) and a dimer of two molecules of scFv (MT1‐diabody), as the basic structures of MT1‐MMP imaging probes followed by in vitro and in vivo evaluation with an 111In radiolabel. Phage display screening successfully provided MT1‐scFv and MT1‐diabody, which had sufficiently high affinity for MT1‐MMP (KD = 29.8 and 17.1 nM). Both 111In labeled miniaturized antibodies showed higher uptake in MT1‐MMP expressing HT1080 cells than in non‐expressing MCF7 cells. An in vivo biodistribution study showed rapid pharmacokinetics for both probes, which exhibited >20‐fold higher tumor to blood radioactivity ratios (T/B ratio), an index for in vivo imaging, than 99mTc‐MT1‐mAb 6 h post‐administration, and significantly higher tumor accumulation in HT1080 than MCF7 cells. SPECT images showed heterogeneous distribution and ex vivo autoradiographic analysis revealed that the radioactivity distribution profiles in tumors corresponded to MT1‐MMP‐positive areas. These findings suggest that the newly developed miniaturized antibodies are promising probes for detection of MT1‐MMP in cancer cells.
Pre‐ and post‐natal Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation decreases allergen responsiveness in infancy
Authors: Forsberg A. , Abrahamsson T. R. , Björkstén B. , Jenmalm M. C.
Published: January 2013

Background

We have previously shown that Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation from pregnancy week 36 and to the infant through the first year of life decreased the prevalence of IgE‐associated eczema at 2 years. The underlying immunological mechanisms are unknown, however.

Objective

To investigate the immunomodulatory effect of probiotic supplementation on allergen‐ and mitogen‐induced immune responses in children until 2 years of age.

Methods

Blood mononuclear cells were collected at birth, 6, 12 and 24 months from 61 children (29 probiotic and 32 placebo treated) and cultured with ovalbumin, birch and cat extract and Phytohaemagglutinin (PHA). Cytokine and chemokine secretion was determined using an in‐house multiplexed Luminex assay and ELISA. Real‐time PCR was performed to investigate the Ebi3, Foxp3, GATA‐3 and T‐bet mRNA expression.

Results

Probiotic treatment was associated with low cat‐induced Th2‐like responses at 6 months (IL‐5, P = 0.01, and IL‐13, P = 0.009), with a similar trend for IL‐5 at 12 months (P = 0.09). Cat‐induced IFN‐γ responses were also lower after probiotic than after placebo treatment at 24 months (P = 0.007), with similar findings for the anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 at birth (P = 0.001) and at 12 months (P = 0.009). At 24 months, Th2‐associated CCL22 levels were lower in the probiotic than in the placebo group after birch stimulation (P = 0.02), with a similar trend after ovalbumin stimulation (P = 0.07). Lower CCL22 levels were recorded at 12 and 24 months (P = 0.03 and P = 0.01) after PHA stimulation.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Lactobacillus reuteri supplementation decreases allergen responsiveness and may enhance immunoregulatory capacity during infancy. L. reuteri supplementation from week 36 and during the first year of life significantly decreases IgE‐associated eczema and lowers allergen and mitogen responsiveness.
Respiratory mechanics and peripheral airway inflammation and dysfunction in asthma
Authors: Shirai T. , Mori K. , Mikamo M. , Shishido Y. , Akita T. , Morita S. , Asada K. , Fujii M. , Suda T. , Chida K.
Published: January 2013

Background

Clinical application of the forced oscillation technique (FOT) has progressed with the spread of commercially available FOT devices. The correlation between respiratory impedance and spirometry has been reported; however, the association with airway inflammation and pulmonary function, in the lung periphery in particular, is unclear.

Objective

To assess whether respiratory impedance is associated with peripheral airway inflammation and dysfunction in asthma.

Methods

Subjects included 78 patients with overall controlled asthma. We measured whole‐breath or within‐breath respiratory system resistance (Rrs) and reactance (Xrs) using a commercially available multi‐frequency FOT device (MostGraph‐01), and assessed the correlation with the fraction of exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), alveolar nitric oxide concentration (CANO), maximal NO flux in the conductive airways (J'awNO), and the N2 phase III slope of single breath N2 washout (delta N2).

Results

The differences between inspiratory and expiratory phases of Xrs at 5 Hz (X5), resonant frequency (Fres), and a low‐frequency reactance area (ALX) were significantly correlated with CANO; however, there was no correlation between respiratory impedance and FeNO or J'awNO. The delta N2 values were significantly correlated with whole‐breath, inspiratory, and expiratory Rrs and Xrs, except for R20.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

We conclude that respiratory impedance reflects peripheral airway inflammation and ventilation inhomogeneity.
An SNP of the ZBTB38 gene is associated with idiopathic short stature in the Chinese Han population
Authors: Wang Ying , Wang Zhi‐min , Teng Yue‐chun , Shi Jin‐xiu , Wang Hai‐feng , Yuan Wen‐tao , Chu Xun , Wang De‐fen , Wang Wei , Huang Wei
Published: January 2013

Objective

Idiopathic short stature (ISS) refers to extreme short stature without any diagnostic explanation. Recently, three genome‐wide association studies discovered associations between the ZBTB38 and adult height in different populations. Therefore, variations in the ZBTB38 might contribute to ISS. Furthermore, one study in Korean population showed that ZBTB38 gene was significantly associated with adult height, but not with ISS. We want to examine whether the variants in ZBTB38 are associated with ISS in Chinese Han.

Methods

A case–control association study was performed in 268 ISS patients and 513 healthy controls from Chinese Han population. Fourteen tag SNPs were selected and genotyped using SNaPshot method. Furthermore, expression of mRNA was quantified by RT‐qPCR, and assessment of allelic expression imbalance was conducted with SNaPshot method.

Results

Seven ZBTB38 SNPs were significantly associated with ISS by allele tests (rs724016, rs1582874, rs11919556, rs6440006, rs7612543, rs62282002, rs18651435). And five loci were associated with ISS according to genotype (rs11919556, rs16851419, rs6440006, rs62282002, rs18651435). Notably, after applying the stringent Bonferroni correction for multiple testing, one SNP, rs16851435, remained significantly associated by allele and genotype (P = 5·30 × 10−4 for allele and P = 0·002 for genotype). Furthermore, the rs16851435 alleles were investigated association with ZTBT38 mRNA expression levels. The G allele showed a higher transcriptional activity than the T allele (P = 0·002).

Conclusions

Our study indicated that the nonsynonymous SNP (rs16851435:T > G,p.Ser319Ala) of ZBTB38 was contributed to susceptibility of ISS in the Chinese Han population.
Fasting and postprandial liver glycogen content in patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus after successful pancreas–kidney transplantation with systemic venous insulin delivery
Authors: Stadler M. , Krššák M. , Jankovic D. , Göbl C. , Winhofer Y. , Pacini G. , Bischof M. , Haidinger M. , Saemann M. , Mühlbacher F. , Korbonits M. , Baumgartner‐Parzer S. M. , Luger A. , Prager R. , Anderwald C.‐H. , Krebs M.
Published: January 2013

Background

In patients with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM), insulin is usually replaced systemically (subcutaneously) and not via the physiological portal route. According to previous studies, the liver's capacity to store glycogen is reduced in T1DM patients, but it remains unclear whether this is due to hyperglycaemia, or whether the route of insulin supply could contribute to this phenomenon. T1DM patients after successful pancreas–kidney transplantation with systemic venous drainage (T1DM‐PKT) represent a suitable human model to further investigate this question, because they are normoglycaemic, but their liver receives insulin from the pancreas transplant via the systemic route.

Materials and methods

In nine T1DM‐PKT, nine controls without diabetes (CON) and seven patients with T1DM (T1DM), liver glycogen content was measured at fasting and after two standardized meals employing 13C‐nuclear‐magnetic‐resonance‐spectroscopy. Circulating glucose and glucoregulatory hormones were measured repeatedly throughout the study day.

Results

The mean and fasting concentrations of peripheral plasma glucose, insulin, glucagon and C‐peptide were comparable between T1DM‐PKT and CON, whereas T1DM were hyperglycaemic and hyperinsulinaemic (P < 0·05 vs T1DM‐PKT and CON). Total liver glycogen content at fasting and after breakfast did not differ in the three groups. After lunch, T1DM‐PKT and T1DM had a 14% and 21% lower total liver glycogen content than CON (P < 0·02).

Conclusion

In spite of normalized glycaemic control, postprandial liver glycogen content was reduced in T1DM‐PKT with systemic venous drainage. Thus, not even optimized systemic insulin substitution is able to resolve the defect in postprandial liver glycogen storage seen in T1DM patients.
Effect of Implant Angulation on Attachment Retention in Mandibular Two‐Implant Overdentures: A Clinical Study
Authors: Jabbour Zaher , Fromentin Olivier , Lassauzay Claire , Abi Nader Samer , Correa José A. , Feine Jocelyne , de Albuquerque Junior Rubens F.
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Attachment wear can affect the performance of mandibular two‐implant overdentures (IODs). This prospective clinical study aimed to investigate the effect of interimplant angulation on the retention achieved by two attachment systems at different time points within 1 year of wearing IODs.

Materials and Methods

Twenty‐four patients (mean age = 73.2 years; standard deviation (SD) = 3.1) wearing IODs opposed by conventional maxillary complete dentures were randomly assigned to two groups in two‐by‐two crossover design. Retentive Anchor (RA) and Locator (LA) were installed in the IODs of both groups for 1 year, sequentially. Coronal and sagittal interimplant angulation were measured on posterior–anterior and lateral cephalometric radiographs. Retention was measured at baseline, 1 week, 3, 6, and 12 months postattachment installation. Data were analyzed using mixed models with α = 0.05.

Results

Mean coronal and sagittal interimplant angulations were 4.6 (SD = 2.9) and 3.5 (SD = 2.6) degrees, respectively. Only with LAs a statistically significant decrease was found in retention (average 1.1 Newton; standard error = 0.38; p = .007) per 1 degree increased sagittal interimplant angulation.

Conclusions

Increased interimplant angulation appears to have higher impact on the retention of LA than of RA attachments. The effect of larger interimplant angulation on the loss of attachment retention and its clinical implications should be further assessed.
All on Four® Fixed Implant Support Rehabilitation: A Masticatory Function Study
Authors: De Rossi Moara , Santos Carla Moreto , Migliorança Reginaldo , Regalo Simone Cecílio Hallak
Published: January 2013

Background

Fixed implant‐supported prostheses according to All‐on‐Four® (Nobel Biocare, Goteborg, Sweden) principles have become an accepted treatment modality in totally edentulous patients, whereas the functional effect of this therapy is limited.

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the muscular function of patients totally rehabilitated with All‐on‐Four.

Materials and Methods

This study evaluated 63 patients. Twenty‐one patients were successfully rehabilitated with maxillary and mandibular All‐on‐Four (no dropout implants, satisfactory aesthetic and function demands prosthesis), 21 patients were dentate, and 21 were rehabilitated with double complete dentures. Electromyography was carried out during clenching, nonhabitual and habitual chewing, and rest. All values were standardized as percentage of a maximum voluntary contraction. Data were analyzed by ANOVA to compare groups and paired t‐test was used for comparison between sides within each group.

Results

All groups presented symmetric muscular activity. The All‐on‐Four and dentate groups had a similar muscles surface electromyography (sEMG) contraction pattern, that is, a higher sEMG activity of masseter than temporalis muscles, differing (p ≤ .05) from those of denture group. Not one statistical difference was found between All‐on‐Four and dentate groups.

Conclusion

The muscular function similarity of All‐on‐Four and dentate patients shows that this treatment concept may be considered as a good option for oral rehabilitation in edentulous patients.
Ghostnet impacts on globally threatened turtles, a spatial risk analysis for northern Australia
Authors: Wilcox C. , Hardesty B.D. , Sharples R. , Griffin D.A. , Lawson T.J. , Gunn R.
Published: January 2013

As human population growth continues, so too does our waste, often with unintended consequences for wildlife. The estimated 640,000 tons of fishing gear lost, abandoned, or discarded annually exerts a large but uncertain impact on marine species. These “ghostnets” drift in the ocean and can fish unattended for decades (ghost fishing), killing huge numbers of commercially valuable or threatened species. We developed an integrated analysis combining physical models of oceanic drift with ecological data on marine turtle species distribution and vulnerability to make quantitative predictions of threat. Using data from beach cleanups and fisheries in northern Australia, we assessed this biodiversity threat in an area where high densities of ghostnets encounter globally threatened turtles. Entanglement risk is well‐predicted by our model, as verified by independent strandings data. We identified a number of previously unknown high‐risk areas. We are also able to recommend efficient locations for surveillance and interception of abandoned fishing gear. Our work points the way forward for understanding the global threat from marine debris and making predictions that can guide regulation, enforcement, and conservation action.
Atypical form of transient reactive papulotranslucent acrokeratoderma in a cystic fibrosis carrier
Authors: Baquerizo Katherine , Amini Sadegh , Keri Jonette E. , Badiavas Evangelos V. , Elgart George W.
Published: January 2013

We report the first documented case of an atypical form of transient reactive papulotranslucent acrokeratoderma (TRPA) in a patient heterozygous for the ΔF508 CFTR(cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator) mutation. TRPA represents a condition that classically presents with translucent to white plaques that become evident after water exposure. An atypical form with persistent lesions has also been described. Our patient is a 16‐year‐old girl with small, white papules coalescing into pebbly plaques on the palms. This condition is exacerbated after 5–10 min of water exposure and is associated with discomfort. The skin biopsy showed expanded stratum corneum, orthohyperkeratosis and dilation of eccrine ducts consisting with TRPA. A cystic fibrosis carrier state, barrier function defect, hyperhidrosis and the intake of cyclooxygenase inhibitors may have been pathogenic factors in our patient.
Platelet count predicts cardiovascular mortality in very elderly patients with myocardial infarction
Authors: Goliasch Georg , Forster Stefan , El‐Hamid Feras , Sulzgruber Patrick , Meyer Nicolai , Siostrzonek Peter , Maurer Gerald , Niessner Alexander
Published: January 2013

Background

The prognosis of elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI) is poor, and information on specific risk factors remains scarce. The aim of our study was to assess the influence of platelet count on cardiovascular mortality in very elderly patients with acute myocardial infarction (≥ 85 years of age).

Methods

We identified 208 elderly AMI patients and compared the platelet count with 208 matched young AMI patients (≤ 65 years) and 208 matched intermediate age AMI patients (66–84 years) who derived from the same cohort.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 4·7 years, 25% of patients (n = 156) died of cardiovascular causes (97 very elderly, 46 intermediate age and 13 young age patients). We detected a mean platelet count of 227G/l (SD ± 83) in very elderly AMI patients, of 236G/l (SD ± 78) in the intermediate AMI group and of 254G/l (SD ± 79) in 208 young AMI patients (anova P = 0·002). We revealed a significant interaction between age and platelet count with regard to cardiovascular mortality (p for interaction = 0·014). Platelet count displayed a significant risk transformation from an independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality in very elderly AMI patients (adj. hazard ratio (HR) per 1‐SD increase 1·25;95%CI 1·02–1·54;P = 0·028), via displaying no association with mortality in the intermediate age group (P = 0·10), to a strong inverse association in young patients (adj. HR 0·36;95%CI 0·18–0·68;P = 0·002).

Conclusion

Our study demonstrates an independent association between elevated platelet count and long‐term cardiovascular mortality in the growing and vulnerable group of very elderly AMI patients. Nevertheless, the pathophysiologic mechanisms underlying this age‐dependent effect have to be further clarified.
Context‐specific protein tyrosine kinase 6 (PTK6) signalling in prostate cancer
Authors: Zheng Yu , Tyner Angela L.
Published: January 2013

Background

Protein tyrosine kinase 6 (PTK6) is an intracellular tyrosine kinase that is distantly related toSRCfamily kinases.PTK6 is nuclear in normal prostate epithelia, but nuclear localization is lost in prostate tumours. Increased expression ofPTK6 is detected in human prostate cancer, especially at metastatic stages, and in other types of cancers, including breast, colon, head and neck cancers, and serous carcinoma of the ovary.

Materials and methods

Potential novel substrates ofPTK6 identified by mass spectrometry were validatedin vitro. The significance ofPTK6‐induced phosphorylation of these substrates was addressed using human prostate cell lines by knockdown of endogenousPTK6 or overexpression of targetedPTK6 to different intracellular compartments.

Results

We identifiedAKT, p130CASand focal adhesion kinase (FAK) as novelPTK6 substrates and demonstrated their roles in promoting cell proliferation, migration and resistance to anoikis. In prostate cancer cells, activePTK6 is primarily associated with membrane compartments, although the majority of totalPTK6 is localized within the cytoplasm. Ectopic expression of membrane‐targetedPTK6 transforms immortalized fibroblasts. Knockdown of endogenous cytoplasmicPTK6 inPC3 prostate cancer cells impairs proliferation, migration and anoikis resistance. However, re‐introduction ofPTK6 into the nucleus significantly decreases cell proliferation, suggesting context‐specific functions for nuclearPTK6.

Conclusions

In human prostate cancer, elevatedPTK6 expression, translocation ofPTK6 from the nucleus to the cytoplasm and its activation at the plasma membrane contribute to increased phosphorylation and activation of its substrates such asAKT, p130CASandFAK, thereby promoting prostate cancer progression.
Favorable outcome with doxorubicin‐based chemotherapy and radiotherapy for adult patients with early stage primary systemic anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Zhang Xi‐Mei , Li Ye‐Xiong , Wang Wei‐Hu , Jin Jing , Wang Shu‐Lian , Liu Yue‐Ping , Song Yong‐Wen , Ren Hua , Fang Hui , Zhou Li‐Qiang , Chen Bo , Qi Shu‐Nan , Liu Qing‐Feng , Lu Ning‐Ning , Liu Xin‐Fan , Yu Zi‐Hao
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to analyze outcomes in adult patients with early stage systemic anaplastic large‐cell lymphoma (ALCL) treated with doxorubicin‐based chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Forty‐six adult patients with early stage systemic ALCL received chemotherapy followed by radiotherapy. All patients except two received chemotherapy with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisone (CHOP) or a CHOP‐like regimen. Twenty patients had stage I disease, and 26 patients had stage II disease. The 5‐yr overall survival (OS), progression‐free survival (PFS), and local control rates for all patients were 84.4%, 63.6%, and 90.8%, respectively. The 5‐yr OS and PFS rates were 95.0% and 77.4% for Ann Arbor stage I disease, and 75.1% and 51.7% for stage II disease, respectively. Lymph node involvement was the main pattern of disease progression or relapse for these patients. Adult patients with early stage systemic ALCL treated with doxorubicin‐based chemotherapy and radiotherapy had a favorable prognosis.
Musicians show general enhancement of complex sound encoding and better inhibition of irrelevant auditory change in music: anERPstudy
Authors: Kaganovich Natalya , Kim Jihyun , Herring Caryn , Schumaker Jennifer , MacPherson Megan , Weber‐Fox Christine
Published: January 2013

Using electrophysiology, we have examined two questions in relation to musical training – namely, whether it enhances sensory encoding of the human voice and whether it improves the ability to ignore irrelevant auditory change. Participants performed an auditory distraction task, in which they identified each sound as either short (350 ms) or long (550 ms) and ignored a change in timbre of the sounds. Sounds consisted of a male and a female voice saying a neutral sound [a], and of a cello and a French Horn playing an F3 note. In some blocks, musical sounds occurred on 80% of trials, while voice sounds on 20% of trials. In other blocks, the reverse was true. Participants heard naturally recorded sounds in half of experimental blocks and their spectrally‐rotated versions in the other half. Regarding voice perception, we found that musicians had a larger N1 event‐related potential component not only to vocal sounds but also to their never before heard spectrally‐rotated versions. We therefore conclude that musical training is associated with a general improvement in the early neural encoding of complex sounds. Regarding the ability to ignore irrelevant auditory change, musicians' accuracy tended to suffer less from the change in timbre of the sounds, especially when deviants were musical notes. This behavioral finding was accompanied by a marginally larger re‐orienting negativity in musicians, suggesting that their advantage may lie in a more efficient disengagement of attention from the distracting auditory dimension.