bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Training community practitioners to work more effectively with parents to prevent childhood obesity: the impact of HENRY upon Children’s Centres and their staff
Authors: Willis T. A. , Potrata B. , Hunt C. , Rudolf M. C. J.
Published: April 2012

Background:  One in four children in England is overweight/obese upon starting school. HENRY (Health Exercise Nutrition for the Really Young) offers a novel, preventive approach to this problem by training practitioners to work more effectively with the parents of preschool children around obesity and lifestyle issues. The programme is being delivered to all Sure Start Children’s Centres (the UK government initiative providing family support and childcare in disadvantaged areas) in Leeds, UK.

Methods:  The evaluation covered the first 12 Centres to be trained (these had a reach of approximately 5000 families). A series of semi‐structured interviews were conducted with Centre managers, and ‘drop boxes’ were provided for all staff to leave their comments. Interviews took place up to 11 months post‐training, allowing a consideration of any long‐term impact.

Results:  Data from 12 interviews and 106 comment slips indicated that HENRY training was associated with considerable changes to the Centre environment. Immediate effects included changes to Centre policy and practice, including the provision of age‐appropriate portion sizes and the introduction of healthy snacks; a strengthening of team working and increased staff confidence around tackling lifestyle change; and enhanced skills when working with families. Training also induced changes within the staff’s personal lives (e.g. increased physical activity and family mealtimes).

Conclusions:  The findings suggest that positive and lasting lifestyle effects can be achieved by brief training courses involving Children’s Centre staff teams. Both staff and attendant families appear to benefit. The effect on levels of preschool obesity across the city once HENRY has extended to the remaining Centres is yet to be seen.
Role of interleukin‐6 in hemopoietic and non‐hemopoietic synergy mediating TLR4‐triggered late murine ileus and endotoxic shock1
Authors: Buchholz B. M. , Chanthaphavong R. S. , Billiar T. R. , Bauer A. J.
Published: April 2012

Background  Early murine endotoxin‐induced ileus at 6 h is exclusively mediated by non‐hemopoietic TLR4/MyD88 signaling despite molecular activation of hemopoietic cells which included a significant IL‐6 mRNA induction. Our objective was to define the role of hemopoietic cells in LPS/TLR4‐triggered ileus and inflammation over time, and identify mechanisms of ileus.

Methods  CSF‐1−/−, TLR4 non‐chimera and TLR4 chimera mice were single‐shot intraperitoneal injected with ultrapure lipopolysaccharide (UP‐LPS) and studied up to 4 days. Subgroups of TLR4WT mice were additionally intravenously injected with exogenous recombinant IL‐6 (rmIL‐6) or murine soluble IL‐6 receptor blocking antibody (anti‐sIL‐6R mAB).

Key Results  Hemopoietic TLR4 signaling independently mediated UP‐LPS‐induced ileus at 24 h, but chemotactic muscularis neutrophil extravasation was not causatively involved and mice lacking CSF‐1‐dependent macrophages died prematurely. Synergy of hemopoietic and non‐hemopoietic cells determined ileus severity and mortality which correlated with synergistic cell lineage specific transcription of inflammatory mediators like IL‐6 within the intestinal muscularis. Circulating IL‐6 levels were LPS dose dependent, but exogenous rmIL‐6 did not spark off a self‐perpetuating inflammatory response triggering ileus. Sustained therapeutic inhibition of functional IL‐6 signaling efficiently ameliorated late ileus while preemptive antibody‐mediated IL‐6R blockade was marginally effective in mitigating ileus. However, IL‐6R blockade did not prevent endotoxin‐associated mortality nor did it alter circulating IL‐6 levels.

Conclusions & Inferences  A time‐delayed bone marrow‐driven mechanism of murine endotoxin‐induced ileus exists, and hemopoietic cells synergize with non‐hemopoietic cells thereby prolonging ileus and fueling intestinal inflammation. Importantly, IL‐6 signaling via IL‐6R/gp130 drives late ileus, yet it did not regulate mortality in endotoxic shock.
Physical Activity in the Prevention of Childhood Obesity
Authors: Guinhouya Benjamin C.
Published: April 2012

Guinhouya BC. PhysicalActivity in the Prevention of Childhood Obesity. Paediatric and Perinatal Epidemiology 2012; ••: ••–••.

The current high prevalence of childhood obesity and its co‐morbidities is concomitant with a low level of physical activity and an abundance of sedentary pastimes for Westernised children. To increase the participation of a majority of children in a sustained physical activity, interventions require a fair understanding and consideration of the influences of this behaviour, especially as children are overweight or obese. Basically, the physical activity behaviour of children depends on biological, sociocultural and psychosocial factors and their interplay. The recent literature lends support to the fact that some psychosocial factors such as self‐efficacy and physical competence may be solid anchor points upon which to improve the participation of overweight and obese children in free‐living physical activity. Thus, interventionists should first concentrate on improving these personal dimensions around which physiological and environmental factors might revolve. The development of motor skills may be a good means for enhancing the self‐image of obese children.
Comparative co‐expression analysis in plant biology
Authors: MOVAHEDI SARA , VAN BEL MICHIEL , HEYNDRICKX KEN S. , VANDEPOELE KLAAS
Published: April 2012

The analysis of gene expression data generated by high‐throughput microarray transcript profiling experiments has shown that transcriptionally coordinated genes are often functionally related. Based on large‐scale expression compendia grouping multiple experiments, this guilt‐by‐association principle has been applied to study modular gene programmes, identify cis‐regulatory elements or predict functions for unknown genes in different model plants. Recently, several studies have demonstrated how, through the integration of gene homology and expression information, correlated gene expression patterns can be compared between species. The incorporation of detailed functional annotations as well as experimental data describing protein–protein interactions, phenotypes or tissue specific expression, provides an invaluable source of information to identify conserved gene modules and translate biological knowledge from model organisms to crops. In this review, we describe the different steps required to systematically compare expression data across species. Apart from the technical challenges to compute and display expression networks from multiple species, some future applications of plant comparative transcriptomics are highlighted.
Anaphylaxis to pork kidney is related to IgE antibodies specific for galactose‐alpha‐1,3‐galactose
Authors: Morisset M. , Richard C. , Astier C. , Jacquenet S. , Croizier A. , Beaudouin E. , Cordebar V. , Morel‐Codreanu F. , Petit N. , Moneret‐Vautrin D. A. , Kanny G.
Published: April 2012

Background

Carbohydrate‐specific IgE antibodies present on nonprimate mammalian proteins were incriminated recently in delayed meat anaphylaxis. The aim of this study was to explore whether anaphylaxis to mammalian kidney is also associated with galactose‐α‐1,3‐galactose (αGal)‐specific IgE.

Methods

Fourteen patients with anaphylaxis to pork or beef kidney underwent prick tests to meat and kidney. Some patients also underwent skin tests to Erbitux® (cetuximab). IgE antibodies to αGal, swine urine proteins, beef and pork meat, serum albumin proteins, cat, and rFel d 1 were measured by ImmunoCAP®. The αGal levels were estimated in meats and kidney by ELISA inhibition assay. Cross‐reactivity between αGal and pork kidney was studied with the ImmunoCAP® inhibition assay.

Results

Among the 14 patients, 12 presented with anaphylactic shock. Reactions occurred within 2 h from exposure in 67% of patients. Associated risk factors were observed in 10 cases, and alcohol was the main cofactor. Three patients underwent an oral challenge to pork kidney, and anaphylaxis occurred after ingestion of small quantities (1–2 g). Prick tests to kidney were positive in 54% of patients. All tested patients showed positive skin tests to Erbitux®. All patients tested positive for IgE to αGal, with levels ranging from 0.4 to 294 kU/l. IgE binding to αGal was inhibited by raw pork kidney extract (mean, 77%; range, 55–87%), which showed a high amount of αGal determinants.

Conclusions

Pork or beef kidney anaphylaxis is related to αGal IgE. Its peculiar severity could be due to an elevated content of αGal epitopes in kidney.
Association between residence location and likelihood of transplantation among pediatric dialysis patients
Authors: Samuel Susan M. , Hemmelgarn Brenda , Nettel‐Aguirre Alberto , Foster Bethany , Soo Andrea , Alexander R. Todd , Tonelli Marcello ,   Pediatric Renal Outcomes Canada Group
Published: April 2012

Samuel SM, Hemmelgarn B, Nettel‐Aguirre A, Foster B, Soo A, Alexander RT, Tonelli M, Pediatric Renal Outcomes Canada Group. Association between residence location and likelihood of transplantation among pediatric dialysis patients.

Abstract:  Many children with ESRD reside far from a kidney transplant center. It is unknown whether this geographical barrier affects likelihood of transplantation. We used data from a national ESRD database. Patients ≤18 yr old who started renal replacement in nine Canadian provinces during 1992–2007 were followed until death or last contact. Primary outcome was kidney transplantation (living or deceased donor). Distance between nearest pediatric transplant center and each patient’s residence was categorized as: <50, 50 to <150, 150 to <300, and ≥300 km. Using survival analysis, we compared likelihood of transplantation between whites and non‐whites living in various distance categories. Among 728 patients, 52.2% were males and 62.5% were whites. Compared to white children living <50 km from a transplant center, white (HR, 0.73; 95% CI, 0.56–0.95) and non‐white (HR, 0.66; 95% CI, 0.48–0.92) children living ≥300 km away were less likely to receive a transplant. Non‐white children living <50 km away (HR, 0.59; 95% CI 0, 45–0.78) were also less likely to receive a transplant compared to otherwise similar whites living <50 km away. Although equitable access to transplantation by residence location is observed among remote‐dwelling adults with ESRD, white and non‐white children with ESRD living ≥300 km from a transplant center were less likely to receive transplants.
Genetic identification of members of the Bemisia tabaci cryptic species complex from South Africa reveals native and introduced haplotypes
Authors: Esterhuizen L. L. , Mabasa K. G. , van Heerden S. W. , Czosnek H. , Brown J. K. , van Heerden H. , Rey M. E. C.
Published: April 2012

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci cryptic species complex contains some important agricultural pest and virus vectors. Members of the complex have become serious pests in South Africa (SA) because of their feeding habit and their ability to transmit begomovirus species. Despite their economic importance, studies on the biology and distribution of B. tabaci in SA are limited. To this end, a survey was made to investigate the diversity and distribution of B. tabaci cryptic species in eight geographical locations (provinces) in SA, between 2002 and 2009, using the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mtCOI) sequences. Phylogenetic analysis revealed the presence of members from two endemic sub‐Saharan Africa (SSAF) subclades coexisting with two introduced putative species. The SSAF‐1 subclade includes cassava host‐adapted B. tabaci populations, whereas the whiteflies collected from cassava and non‐cassava hosts formed a distinct subclade, referred to as SSAF‐5, and represent a new subclade among previously recognized southern Africa clades. Two introduced cryptic species, belonging to the Mediterranean and Middle East–Asia minor 1 clades, were identified and include the B and Q types. The B type showed the widest distribution, being present in five of the eight provinces explored in SA, infesting several host plants and predominating over the indigenous haplotypes. This is the first report of the occurrence of the exotic Q type in SA alongside the more widely distributed B type. Furthermore, mtCOI PCR‐RFLP was developed for the SA context to allow rapid discrimination between the B, Q and SSAF putative species. The capacity to manage pests and disease effectively relies on knowledge of the identity of the agents causing the damage. Therefore, this study contributes to the understanding of South African B. tabaci species diversity, information needed for the development of knowledge‐based disease management practices.
Nationwide survey of adolescents and young adults with end‐stage kidney disease
Authors: RITCHIE ANGUS G , CLAYTON PHILIP A , MACKIE FIONA E , KENNEDY SEAN E
Published: April 2012

Aim:  To better understand the health‐care needs of adolescents and young adults (AYA) with end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD), we sought to describe the demographic characteristics of a national cohort.

Methods:  Data were retrieved from the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Registry. We included all patients aged 15–25 years, living in Australia and receiving renal replacement therapy (RRT) on 31 December 2009. Data included race, aetiology of kidney disease, postal code, transition and migration history.

Results:  A total of 495 AYA were receiving RRT in Australia giving a prevalence of 143 per million age‐related population. Sixty‐three per cent had a functioning transplant, 24% were receiving haemodialysis and 13% peritoneal dialysis. Median current age was 22 years (interquartile range (IQR) 19–24). The most prevalent cause of ESKD was glomerulonephritis (33%). The majority of patients lived in capital cities. Indigenous patients were more likely to live in more remote areas. Eighty‐five per cent of patients were currently receiving care at an adult unit and 35% of these patients had transitioned from a paediatric unit since starting RRT. The median number of patients per adult unit was 5 (IQR 3–10).

Conclusions:  The majority of Australian AYA with ESKD are managed in adult units; however, the number at any one unit is low. As most live in the capital cities there may be an opportunity to establish centralized services designed to cater for the needs of AYA patients. However, the needs of patients living in more remote areas, including a significant proportion of Indigenous patients, may not be met by such a model.
Vitamin D deficiency, CD4+CD28null cells and accelerated atherosclerosis in chronic kidney disease
Authors: YADAV ASHOK KUMAR , BANERJEE DEBASISH , LAL ANUPAM , JHA VIVEKANAND
Published: April 2012

Aim:  Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death among chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. The role of vitamin D remains controversial in this process. We evaluated the relationship between 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, abnormal T helper cells (CD4+CD28null cells), systemic inflammation and atherosclerosis in CKD patients.

Methods:  A total of 101 stage 4–5 non‐dialysis CKD patients and 40 healthy controls were studied. Common carotid artery intima media thickness (CCA‐IMT) was measured with an ultrasound system. 25(OH) vitamin D and highly sensitive C‐reactive protein (hsCRP) were measured in serum by enzyme linked immunosorbent assay. The frequency of circulating CD4+CD28null cells was evaluated by flowcytometry.

Results:  CKD subjects exhibited higher CCA‐IMT (0.71 ± 0.01 vs 0.56 ± 0.01 mm, P < 0.0001), hsCRP (90.7 ± 5.8 vs 50.1 ± 8.6 µg/mL, P < 0.0001), CD4+CD28null cell frequency (9.1 ± 0.9 vs 3.6 ± 0.5%, P < 0.0001) and lower 25(OH) vitamin D levels (17.9 ± 1.9 vs 26.9 ± 3.5 ng/mL, P < 0.0001). In CKD subjects, serum 25 (OH) vitamin D level showed a strong inverse correlation with CCA‐IMT (r = −0.729, P < 0.0001) and correlated with CD4+CD28null cell frequency (r = −0.249, P = 0.01) and hsCRP (r = −0.2, P = 0.047). We also noted correlation of IMT with patient age (r = 0.291, P = 0.004) and CD4+CD28null cells (r = 0.34, P = 0.001). On multiple regression analysis, 25(OH) vitamin D level, diabetic status and CD4+CD28null cell frequency exhibited independent association with IMT in CKD subjects.

Conclusions:  Vitamin D deficiency, inflammatory activation and higher frequency of CD4+CD28null T lymphocyte population correlate with preclinical atherosclerotic changes in CKD population. These findings suggest possible linkage between vitamin D metabolism and T cell modulation – abnormalities that may contribute to development of atherosclerosis in CKD.
Lack of individualized perspective: A qualitative study of diabetes care for immigrants in Sweden
Authors: Brämberg Elisabeth Björk , Dahlborg‐Lyckhage Elisabeth , Määttä Sylvia
Published: April 2012

This study describes the care provided by a diabetes nurse specialist, and the care needs expressed by people with type 2 diabetes mellitus and an immigrant background. Clinical encounters between a diabetes nurse specialist and 10 people diagnosed with type 2 diabetes mellitus were observed and analyzed by means of qualitative content analysis. One theme, “the diabetes nurse specialist as the conductor of the visit”, and four categories emerged from the findings, illustrating the power imbalance between the patients and the diabetes nurse specialist, as well as the lack of an individual perspective. Shifting from a medical perspective to one of openness towards the people's experiences provides a possibility for caregivers to empower patients suffering from type 2 diabetes mellitus. The medical perspective seemed to steer the visit towards curative activities. Thus, technique‐centered care should be developed by including individualized care.
Changes in liquid emptying in migraine patients: diagnosed with liquid phase gastric emptying scintigraphy
Authors: Yalcin H. , Okuyucu E. E. , Ucar E. , Duman T. , Yilmazer S.
Published: April 2012

Gastric stasis is suspected mostly to be encountered during acute migraine attack. The aim of this study is to evaluate the liquid phase gastric emptying and motility in migraine patients in ictal and interictal periods in comparison to normal subjects with gastric emptying scintigraphy. Seven women with migraine and age, sex matched controls who applied to the Neurology Department from May 2009 to May 2010 were compared. Gastric emptying study with a standard liquid was performed one time in the non‐migraineur group and two times in the migraineur group. Non‐migraineur controls and migraineurs were compared. The mean T1/2 was longer in ictal period in migraineurs. The T1/2 of migraineurs interictally and the control groups were similar. The T1/2 of migraineurs ictally and migraineurs interictally were also compared. We also considered the percentage of the radioactive material remaining in the stomach. There were no significant differences between non‐migraineurs and migraineurs interictally. However, increased amount of radioactive material remaining in the stomach was observed in migraineurs ictally. We concluded that the liquid emptying was delayed in spontaneous migraine attacks in migraine without aura, however in the interictal period the emptying of liquids did not differ between migraineurs and non‐migraineurs.
Relationship between nutrition status and dental occlusion in community‐dwelling frail elderly people
Authors: Kikutani Takeshi , Yoshida Mitsuyoshi , Enoki Hiromi , Yamashita Yoshihisa , Akifusa Sumio , Shimazaki Yoshihiro , Hirano Hirohiko , Tamura Fumio
Published: April 2012

Aim:  This study aimed to determine the risk of malnutrition in some communities where the frail elderly receive public long‐term care insurance. We also clarified the dental problems in those at risk of malnutrition.

Methods:  A total of 716 frail elderly who lived in eight cities in Japan (240 males and 476 females with a mean age of 83.2 ± 8.6 years) were divided into three groups according to Mini Nutritional Assessment short form results: well nourished, at risk of malnutrition and malnourished. They were also divided into three groups in terms of remaining teeth occlusion and denture occlusion: group A, natural dentition with adequate function; group B, partially or fully edentulous, but maintaining functional occlusion with dentures in either or both jaws; and group C, functionally inadequate occlusion with no dentures. The relationship between nutrition status and dental occlusion was evaluated using logistic regression analysis with sex, age, activities of daily living and cognitive function as covariates.

Results:  The number of participants in each of the groups was as follows: 251 well nourished, 370 at risk of malnutrition and 95 malnourished. When they were divided into just two groups, (i) well nourished and (ii) at risk of malnutrition plus malnourished, in order to study malnutrition risk factors, there were significant relationships between their nutritious status and sex, Barthel index, and occlusion.

Conclusion:  This large‐scale cross‐sectional survey showed that loss of natural teeth occlusion was a risk factor for malnutrition among community‐dwelling frail elderly. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 50–54.
Point‐of‐sale alcohol promotions in the Perth and Sydney metropolitan areas
Authors: JONES SANDRA C. , BARRIE LANCE , ROBINSON LAURA , ALLSOP STEVE , CHIKRITZHS TANYA
Published: April 2012

Introduction and Aims. Point‐of‐sale (POS) is increasingly being used as a marketing tool for alcohol products, and there is a growing body of evidence suggesting that these materials are positively associated with drinking and contribute to creating a pro‐alcohol environment. The purpose of the present study was to document the nature and extent of POS alcohol promotions in bottle shops in two Australian capital cities.

Design and Methods. A purposive sample of 24 hotel bottle shops and liquor stores was selected across Sydney (New South Wales) and Perth (Western Australia) and audited for the presence and nature of POS marketing.

Results. Point‐of‐sale promotions were found to be ubiquitous, with an average of 33 promotions per outlet. Just over half were classified as ‘non‐price’ promotions (e.g. giveaways and competitions). Spirits were the most commonly promoted type of alcohol. The average number of standard drinks required to participate in the promotions ranged from 12 for ready to drinks to 22 for beer. Alcohol outlets that were part of supermarket chains had a higher number of promotions, more price‐based promotions, and required a greater quantity of alcohol to be purchased to participate in the promotion.

Discussion and Conclusions. The data collected in this study provides a starting point for our understanding of POS promotions in Australia, and poses important questions for future research in this area.[Jones SC, Barrie L, Robinson L, Allsop S, Chikritzhs T. Point‐of‐sale alcohol promotions in the Perth and Sydney metropolitan areas. Drug Alcohol Rev 2012;31:803–808]
Trends, current understanding and future research priorities for artisanal coral reef fisheries research
Authors: Johnson Ayana E , Cinner Joshua E , Hardt Marah J , Jacquet Jennifer , McClanahan Tim R , Sanchirico James N
Published: April 2012

Artisanal coral reef fisheries provide food and employment to hundreds of millions of people in developing countries, making their sustainability a high priority. However, many of these fisheries are degraded and not yielding their maximum socioeconomic returns. We present a literature review that evaluates foci and trends in research effort on coral reef fisheries. We describe the types of data and categories of management recommendations presented in the 464 peer‐reviewed articles returned. Identified trends include a decline in articles reporting time‐series data, fish catch biomass and catch‐per‐unit effort, and an increase in articles containing bycatch and stakeholder interview data. Management implications were discussed in 80% of articles, with increasing frequency over time, but only 22% of articles made management recommendations based on the research presented in the article, as opposed to more general recommendations. Key future research priorities, which we deem underrepresented in the literature at present, are: (i) effectiveness of management approaches, (ii) ecological thresholds, trade‐offs and sustainable levels of extraction, (iii) effects of climate change, (iv) food security, (v) the role of aquaculture, (vi) access to and control of fishery resources, (vii) relationships between economic development and fishery exploitation, (viii) alternative livelihoods and (ix) integration of ecological and socioeconomic research.
Drifting Along or Dropping into Homelessness: A Class Analysis of Responses to Homelessness
Authors: Hodgetts Darrin , Stolte Ottilie , Waimarie Nikora Linda , Groot Shiloh
Published: April 2012

Abstract: Prominent assumptions about street homelessness and how it should be addressed originate primarily from middle class domiciled worldviews. This article draws on interviews with 58 street homeless people to develop a typology for explaining different forms of homelessness resulting from differences in class of origin. The concepts of social distance and abjection are used to illustrate how class politics manifests in street homelessness and in responses to this issue. Many of our homeless participants referred to two broad groupings of homeless people who display distinct experiences and cultures in their daily lives on the streets.Driftersare people who do not experience homelessness as a sharp disjuncture from their previously housed life. Street homelessness is a continuation of the hardships of their lower class backgrounds.Droppersare people who have “fallen” on hard times and aspire to return to mainstream middle class lifeworlds. Differentiating between these two groups provides a space for defamiliarizing dominant understandings of, and current generic responses to, homelessness and foregrounds the need for reorienting services to better meet the needs ofdrifters.
In at the Deep End: An Activity‐Led Introduction to First Year Creative Computing
Authors: Anderson E. F. , Peters C. E. , Halloran J. , Every P. , Shuttleworth J. , Liarokapis F. , Lane R. , Richards M.
Published: April 2012

Misconceptions about the nature of the computing disciplines pose a serious problem to university faculties that offer computing degrees, as students enrolling on their programmes may come to realise that their expectations are not met by reality. This frequently results in the students’ early disengagement from the subject of their degrees which in turn can lead to excessive ‘wastage’, that is, reduced retention. In this paper, we report on our academic group’s attempts within creative computing degrees at a UK university to counter these problems through the introduction of a 6 week long project that newly enrolled students embark on at the very beginning of their studies. This group project, involving the creation of a 3D etch‐a‐sketch‐like computer graphics application with a hardware interface, provides a breadth‐first, activity‐led introduction to the students’ chosen academic discipline, aiming to increase student engagement while providing a stimulating learning experience with the overall goal to increase retention. We present the methods and results of two iterations of these projects in the 2009/2010 and 2010/2011 academic years, and conclude that the approach worked well for these cohorts, with students expressing increased interest in their chosen discipline, in addition to noticeable improvements in retention following the first year of the students’ studies.
Huxtables on the Brain: An fMRI Study of Race and Norm Violation
Authors: Schreiber Darren , Iacoboni Marco
Published: April 2012

While a substantial body of work has been devoted to understanding the role of negative stereotypes in racial attitudes, far less is known about how we deal with contradictions of those stereotypes. This article uses functional brain imaging with contextually rich visual stimuli to explore the neural mechanisms that are involved in cognition about social norms and race. We present evidence that racial stereotypes are more about the stereotypes than about race per se. Amygdala activity (correlated with negative racial attitudes in other studies) appeared driven by norm violation, rather than race. Similarly, a pattern of deactivation in the medial prefrontal cortex (previously associated with the dehumanizing of social outcasts) was connected to norm violation, not race.
Acquiring a Variable Structure: An Interlanguage Analysis of Second Language Mood Use in Spanish
Authors: Gudmestad Aarnes
Published: April 2012

This investigation connects issues in second language (L2) acquisition to topics in quantitative sociolinguistics by exploring the relationship between native‐speaker (NS) and L2 variation. It is the first large‐scale analysis of L2 mood use (the subjunctive‐indicative contrast) in Spanish. It applies variationist findings on the range of linguistic and extralinguistic factors (form regularity, semantic category, time reference, hypotheticality, and task) shown to influence NSs’ mood use to an interlanguage analysis of L2 development and shows that analyses of frequency and predictors provide revealing details about how learners acquire the ability to vary their use of verbal moods in Spanish. Variationism, it is concluded, can foster rich descriptions and explanations of interlanguage and its evolution.
L2 Negation Constructions at Work
Authors: Eskildsen Søren W.
Published: April 2012

This article explores the usage‐ and exemplar‐based roots of second language (L2) negation construction learning. Based on two longitudinal case studies involving two adult L2 English learners and a corpus of 63 three‐hour sessions of recorded classroom interactions, the study shows that L2 learning follows the predictions of usage‐based models of language knowledge and acquisition, as the two participants’ learning of English negation constructions is found to go from recurring expressions toward an increasingly schematic, dynamic inventory of linguistic resources. Furthermore, exploring the evolution of two negation patterns in ongoing discourse, I suggest that local usage and long‐term learning are inseparable and call for further detailed investigations of how locally contextualized interactions influence L2 development.
Negative Existentials in Metaphysical Debate
Authors: Burgess Alexis
Published: April 2012

There are statements of the form “There are no Fs” that we would like to count as true, yet it is hard to see how they could be true (at least, operating within the semantic framework of structured propositions). The relevant Fs are general terms that we take to be semantically fundamental or primitive, especially those native to metaphysical discourse. A case can be made the problem is no less difficult than the corresponding problem for singular terms.
Metaphilosophical Criteria for Worldview Comparison
Authors: Vidal Clément
Published: April 2012

Philosophy lacks criteria to evaluate its philosophical theories. To fill this gap, this essay introduces nine criteria to compare worldviews, classified in three broad categories: objective criteria (objective consistency, scientificity, scope), subjective criteria (subjective consistency, personal utility, emotionality), and intersubjective criteria (intersubjective consistency, collective utility, narrativity). The essay first defines what a worldview is and exposes the heuristic used in the quest for criteria. After describing each criterion individually, it shows what happens when each of them is violated. From the criteria, it derives assessment tests to compare and improve different worldviews. These include theis‐ought, ought‐act,andis‐actfirst‐order tests; thecriticalanddialecticalsecond‐order tests; themixed‐questionsandfirst‐second‐orderthird‐order tests; and thewe‐I, we‐it,andit‐Itests. The essay then applies these criteria and tests to a concrete example, comparing theFlyingSpaghettiMonster deity withIntelligentDesign. For another application, it draws more general fruitful suggestions for the dialogue between science and religion.
Timbre and Non‐radical Didacticism in the Streets' A Grand Don't Come for Free: a Poetic‐Ecological Model
Authors: SLATER MARK
Published: April 2012

This article investigates the status and function of timbre by proposing a poetic‐ecological model, which seeks to encapsulate the intersections between and applications of three theoretical territories: poetics, ecological theory and spectromorphology. The patterned sonic material encountered in the Streets' ‘Blinded by the Lights’, from the 2004 album A Grand Don't Come for Free, is analysed in terms of its capacity to specify a non‐radical didactic identity in line with a didactic impulse inherent in hip‐hop culture, from which this music draws significant influence. Timbre is understood in terms of its capacity to specify identities, both sonic and ‘personic’, as propagated by sound via the specification of sources, however stable or ambiguous. In examining how specific sounds function in this track and what they might mean, the terms ‘proprietary’ and ‘efferent’ are offered to explain the typological groupings of sounds from a range of possible sources (people, objects, technology, records, labels, styles and genres). The establishment of these categorical terms draws upon the ecological paradigm outlined by specification, attunement and contingency (which accounts for the agency of culturally situated producers and perceivers), and the spectromorphological ensemble (which accounts for the detailed characteristics and operations of sounds).
National or European Parliamentarians? Evidence from a New Survey of the Members of the European Parliament*
Authors: SCULLY ROGER , HIX SIMON , FARRELL DAVID M.
Published: April 2012

This article presents findings from a new survey of Members of the European Parliament (MEPs), conducted in 2010. It explains the purpose of the survey, its content, the survey methodology and the potential limitations of the sample obtained. The article then presents results from the survey to explore the determinants of MEPs' policy preferences and, more specifically, whether MEPs from recent enlargement states continue to differ from those of longer‐standing EU Member States. The findings here indicate that ‘enlargement’ MEPs remain somewhat farther to the right, but are no longer more cautious about integration. The results also reinforce the importance of ideology, even more than nationality, as a factor underpinning MEPs' political attitudes.
Foreign Interests Lobbying Brussels: Participation of non‐EU Members in Commission Consultations*
Authors: RASMUSSEN ANNE , ALEXANDROVA PETYA
Published: April 2012

Using data on contributions to European Commission online consultations from 2001 to 2010, this article examines the level and character of engagement of foreign states in preparation of EU policy. The results show that regional differences in the overall participation of foreign actors are cancelled out when controlling for different demand‐ and supply‐side factors of regional representation. A country's volume of EU trade, level of development and degree of democracy all contribute to increasing participation. Moreover, variation in national economic and political structures helps explain the types of actors by which a country is represented.
The Mediator subunit SFR6/MED16 controls defence gene expression mediated by salicylic acid and jasmonate responsive pathways
Authors: Wathugala Deepthi L. , Hemsley Piers A. , Moffat Caroline S. , Cremelie Pieter , Knight Marc R. , Knight Heather
Published: April 2012

Arabidopsis SENSITIVE TO FREEZING6 (SFR6) controls cold‐ and drought‐inducible gene expression and freezing‐ and osmotic‐stress tolerance. Its identification as a component of the MEDIATOR transcriptional co‐activator complex led us to address its involvement in other transcriptional responses.

Gene expression responses to Pseudomonas syringae, ultraviolet‐C (UV‐C) irradiation, salicylic acid (SA) and jasmonic acid (JA) were investigated in three sfr6 mutant alleles by quantitative real‐time PCR and susceptibility to UV‐C irradiation and Pseudomonas infection were assessed.

sfr6 mutants were more susceptible to both Pseudomonas syringae infection and UV‐C irradiation. They exhibited correspondingly weaker PR (pathogenesis‐related) gene expression than wild‐type Arabidopsis following these treatments or after direct application of SA, involved in response to both UV‐C and Pseudomonas infection. Other genes, however, were induced normally in the mutants by these treatments. sfr6 mutants were severely defective in expression of plant defensin genes in response to JA; ectopic expression of defensin genes was provoked in wild‐type but not sfr6 by overexpression of ERF5.

SFR6/MED16 controls both SA‐ and JA‐mediated defence gene expression and is necessary for tolerance of Pseudomonas syringae infection and UV‐C irradiation. It is not, however, a universal regulator of stress gene transcription and is likely to mediate transcriptional activation of specific regulons only.
Plasma nitrite concentration decreases after hyperoxia‐induced oxidative stress in healthy humans
Authors: Modun Darko , Krnic Mladen , Vukovic Jonatan , Kokic Visnja , Kukoc‐Modun Lea , Tsikas Dimitrios , Dujic Zeljko
Published: April 2012

The aim of this study was to measure plasma nitrite, the biochemical marker of endothelial nitric oxide (•NO) synthesis, before and after hyperoxia, in order to test the hypothesis that hyperoxia‐induced vasoconstriction is a consequence of reduced bioavailability of •NO caused by elevated oxidative stress. Ten healthy men breathed 100% normobaric O2 for 30 min between 15th and 45th min of the 1‐h study protocol. Plasma nitrite and malondialdehyde (MDA), arterial stiffness (indicated by augmentation index, AIx) and arterial oxygen (PtcO2) pressure were measured at 1st, 15th, 45th and 60th minute of the study. Breathing of normobaric 100% oxygen during 30 min caused an increase in PtcO2 (from 75 ± 2 to 412 ± 25 mm Hg), AIx (from −63 ± 4 to −51 ± 3%) and MDA (from 152 ± 13 to 218 ± 15 nm) values and a decrease in plasma nitrite (from 918 ± 58 to 773 ± 55 nm). During the 15‐min recovery phase, plasma nitrite, AIx and MDA values remained altered. This study suggests that the underlying mechanism of hyperoxia‐induced vasoconstriction may involve reduced •NO bioavailability caused by elevated and sustained oxidative stress.
Intraperitoneal antineoplastic drug delivery: experience with a cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone protocol in cats with malignant lymphoma
Authors: Teske E. , van Lankveld A. J. , Rutteman G. R.
Published: April 2012

In this retrospective study, the efficacy and safety were examined for an intraperitoneal chemotherapy protocol‐cyclophosphamide, vincristine and prednisolone (IP‐COP) in 26 cats with malignant lymphoma. Certainly in cats fiercely resisting IV administration the IP route is a more practical method, safer for the administrator and less stressful for the cat. Complete remission (CR) rate was 76.9% (n = 20). Median duration of first remission was 421 days. Estimated 1‐ and 2‐year disease free period were 67.1 and 48.0%, respectively. Median duration of survival was 388 days and estimated overall 1‐ and 2‐year survival periods were 54.7 and 46.9% respectively. Young cats had a more favourable prognosis. Reaching CR was essential for long‐term survival. No specific IP‐related adverse events (AE) were seen. AE were generally scored as mild and were not excessively abundant. These results indicate that the IP route is a safe and effective alternative for the administration of COP protocol chemotherapeutics.
Additional notes on Anisopteromalus sp. (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae), the sibling species of a parasitic wasp of stored‐product pests, Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard): A new alternative host, an eye color mutant and DNA barcodes
Authors: SASAKAWA Kôji , SATÔ Masumi , SHIMADA Masakazu
Published: April 2012

A parasitic wasp of stored‐product pests, Anisopteromalus calandrae (Howard), is known to have a sibling species with a different chromosome number. Here, we report establishment and characterization of an eye color mutant in this sibling species. The phenotype of the mutant is red eye in adults, and crossing experiments revealed that the mutant phenotype is recessive to wild type (brown eye color). We also report DNA barcode sequences (a partial sequence of mitochondrial cytochrome‐c oxidase subunit I) of A. calandrae and the sibling species to enable accurate identification of these morphologically similar species. Analyses of our laboratory strains showed that 12.6% of the analyzed sequences (82 of 652 bp) differed between the two species. Finally, we note that the seed beetle Callosobruchus chinensis (Linné) (family Bruchidae), host of our laboratory strains of the sibling species, is a new record of alternative host at the family‐level for the wasp (known hosts: Anobiidae (natural host) and Curculionidae (alternative host)).
Characteristics of Homeless Youth Who Use Cocaine and Methamphetamine
Authors: Nyamathi Adeline , Hudson Angela , Greengold Barbara , Leake Barbara
Published: April 2012

This cross‐sectional hepatitis health promotion study (N = 156) was designed to identify correlates of cocaine and methamphetamine use among young, homeless persons living in Los Angeles County. Structured questionnaires were administered at baseline to assess sociodemographic characteristics, drug history, and social support. Unadjusted analysis showed that older age, having a history of incarceration, injection drug use (IDU), 10 or more sexual partners, and sex for money were associated with both cocaine and methamphetamine use. Logistic regression results showed that injection drug users had over seven times greater odds of using each stimulant compared with nonusers of injection drugs; those reporting at least 10 sexual partners and alcohol use in the past 6 months were more likely to use cocaine than their respective counterparts. African Americans were also less likely than Whites to report cocaine use. Understanding of these relationships can guide interventions targeting the multiple challenges faced by this population. (Am J Addict 2012;21:243–249)
Effects of lipopolysaccharide infusion on arterial levels and transcerebral exchange kinetics of glutamate and glycine in healthy humans
Authors: Berg Ronan M. G. , Taudorf Sarah , Bailey Damian M. , Lundby Carsten , Larsen Fin S. , Pedersen Bente K. , Møller Kirsten
Published: April 2012

An imbalance between glutamate and glycine signalling may contribute to sepsis‐associated encephalopathy by causing neuronal excitotoxicity. In this study, we therefore investigated the transcerebral exchange kinetics of glutamate and glycine in a human‐experimental model of systemic inflammation. Cerebral blood flow (CBF) and arterial to jugular venous concentration differences of glutamate and glycine were determined before and after a 4‐h intravenous infusion of Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharide (LPS, total dose of 0.3 ng/kg) in 12 healthy volunteers. The global cerebral net exchange was calculated by multiplying CBF with the arterial to jugular venous differences. LPS induced a systemic inflammatory response with fever, neutrocytosis, and elevated arterial levels of tumour necrosis factor‐α. This was associated with a decrease in the arterial levels of both glutamate and glycine; however, their transcerebral exchange kinetics were unaffected. Inflammation‐induced alterations of the circulating levels of glutamate and glycine, do not affect the global transcerebral exchange kinetics of these amino acids in healthy humans.
Modulation of FLT3 signaling targets conventional dendritic cells to attenuate acute lung injury
Authors: Dong Liang , He Hong‐Li , Lu Xiao‐Min , Yang Yi , Qiu Hai‐Bo
Published: April 2012

Conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) have been reported to participate in the pathophysiology of acute lung injury (ALI). Fms‐like tyrosine kinase 3 (FLT3) signaling represents a highly specific pathway for the manipulation of cDCs in vivo. The purpose of this study was to clarify the effect of FLT3 signaling on the accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs, and whether inhibition of FLT3 signaling may attenuate acute lung inflammation and lung injury. C57BL/6 mice were pretreated with FLT3‐ligand (FLT3L) and lestaurtinib separately for five consecutive days. A murine model of ALI was subsequently generated by intra‐tracheal instillation of lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and lung specimens were harvested 24 h later. Flow cytometry was conducted to measure the accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs. IL‐6, IFN‐γ, IL‐4, MPO activity and transcription factor T‐bet/GATA‐3 mRNA ratio were quantified to evaluate lung inflammation. Lung injury was estimated by lung wet weight/body weight ratio (LWW/BW) and histopathological analysis. LPS challenge resulted in rapid accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs. FLT3L pretreatment further stimulated the accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs, leading to a markedly increased LWW/BW and aggravated lung histopathology. Meanwhile, lung MPO activity, T‐bet/GATA‐3 mRNA ratio and concentrations of IL‐6 and IFN‐γ were elevated by FLT3L administration. In contrast, lestaurtinib pretreatment inhibited the accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs, leading to a significantly decreased LWW/BW and improved lung histopathology. Lestaurtinib administration also suppressed lung MPO activity, T‐bet/GATA‐3 mRNA ratio and production of IL‐6 and IFN‐γ. Our findings show that FLT3 signaling ameliorates ALI by regulating the accumulation and maturation of pulmonary cDCs, suggesting an innovative pharmacotherapy for ALI.
Interprofessional learning enhances knowledge of roles but is less able to shift attitudes: a case study from dental education
Authors: Evans J. L. , Henderson A. , Johnson N. W.
Published: April 2012

Introduction:  Interprofessional education (IPE) purports to improve team working through improved knowledge of the roles of others, and by engendering mutual respect. This case study aimed to determine the impact of an IPE curriculum on knowledge and attitudes of dentistry and dental technology students undertaking these curricula in the new School of Dentistry and Oral Health at Griffith University. All dental technology students and third‐ and final‐ (fifth) year dentistry students were invited to participate.

Method:  A mixed‐method approach was used to compare attitudes, perceptions and experiences of students involved in our IPE curricula. Quantitative data were evaluated with the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS), and qualitative findings were explored through an Excel® spreadsheet coding frame tested against LeximancerTM qualitative software for consistency.

Results:  Forty‐six of the 131 eligible students participated. Readiness for Interprofessional Learning Scales (RIPLS) and focus groups consistently showed that IPE positively influenced professional identity and improved communication between and amongst all students and assisted them in developing their roles. A prevailing sense of greater importance and a lack of mutual respect between dentistry and dental technology students were, unfortunately, evident. The process was, however, sufficient to enhance teamwork and collaboration when planned learning revolved around explicit patient care in the provision of dental prostheses.

Conclusion:  Further development of such curricula is needed to maximise IP learning (IPL) opportunities, to shift traditional attitudes and, potentially, to improve the outcomes of patient care. To enable this, academic and clinical leaders need to embrace the ideals of IPE.