bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Naufraga balearica, a threatened narrow endemism of the Balearic Islands (western Mediterranean basin): assessing the population dynamics of two subpopulations
Authors: Cursach Joana , Rita Juan
Published: April 2013

Naufraga balearica constitutes a monospecific genus of Majorca (Balearic Islands) and is Critically Endangered according to International Union for Conservation of Nature categories. The species has a narrow distributional area, with one subpopulation at Coves Blanques (CB) and a small set of subpopulations on the Formentor Peninsula. A previous work has shown that the subpopulation in Cap de Catalunya (CC) (located on the Formentor Peninsula) has undergone a distinct decline over the last decade. Herein, we report a comparative study of the population dynamics of N. balearica at the CB and CC sites. By monitoring permanent plots for 6 years (2004–2009), we analyzed the frequency of cells in which the species was present, and, for each annual transition (from November, year t to November, year t + 1), we determined the frequency of cells in which the species was stable, decreased or increased for each species and site using a G‐test of independence. The same parameters were also analyzed for N. balearica at the quarterly transitions of November–February, February–May, May–August and August–November. The results indicated that the decline of the threatened species was more marked in the CB subpopulation. N. balearica showed a seasonal trend at both sites, with some exceptions. The most common neighboring species were Dactylis glomerata and Erodium reichardii, and they negatively affected N. balearica; however, the neighboring species effect was not homogeneous among the annual transitions analyzed, indicating that other factors are involved. Finally, some conservation measures are proposed.
Balanced transcription of cell division genes in Bacillus subtilis as revealed by single cell analysis
Authors: Trip Erik Nico , Veening Jan‐Willem , Stewart Eric J. , Errington Jeff , Scheffers Dirk‐Jan
Published: April 2013

Cell division in bacteria is carried out by a set of conserved proteins that all have to function at the correct place and time. A cell cycle‐dependent transcriptional programme drives cell division in bacteria such as Caulobacter crescentus. Whether such a programme exists in the Gram‐positive model organism Bacillus subtilis is unknown. Here, we investigate the role of gene transcription as a potential regulatory mechanism for control of division in B. subtilis. Transcriptional GFP fusions in combination with flow cytometry demonstrated a constitutive promoter activity, independent of growth rate, of nine tested cell division genes. These measurements were verified by quantitative real‐time reverse‐transcription PCR (qrtPCR). Time‐lapse fluorescence microscopy was performed on a set of selected reporter strains to test transcriptional regulation during the cell cycle. Interestingly, although the average fluorescence remained constant during cell‐cycle progression, individual cells demonstrated a roughly twofold higher promoter activity at the end of the cell cycle. This cell cycle‐dependent increased promoter activity can be partly explained by the doubled promoter copy number after DNA replication. Our results indicate that the transcriptional activity of promoters for cell division genes remains constant regardless of growth rate and cell‐cycle state, suggesting that regulation of cell division in B. subtilis predominantly takes place at the post‐translational level.
A Dialogue of the Deaf? Conflicting Discourses over the EU and Services Liberalisation in the WTO
Authors: Crespy Amandine
Published: April 2013

Research Highlights and Abstract

The role of the European Union (EU) in services liberalisation—and the impact thereof on the provision of services of general interest—has been highly contentious both globally and in the EU. Besides other policy issues, services liberalisation contributes to make the EU a ‘conflicted trade power’ ( Meunier and Nicolaïdis 2006 ). The study of conflicting discourses and, in particular, the EU's responsiveness to criticism towards the conduct of its trade policy can help to understand the legitimacy issues the EU has to face better than approaches focused on negotiating positions shaped. The study finds that the EU's trade policy is characterised by continuity in spite of the a) potentially various ideological profiles of EU Trade Commissioners b) in the face of contention by civil society, c) external events such as the global financial crisis and the EU debt crisis. However, specific institutional settings can prompt political responsiveness from the Commission in a greater extent. In the European arena, unlike in the more loosely structured global arena, the existence of a parliamentary debate and formal as well as informal contacts with organised civil society (NGOs, interest groups and unions) constrain the EU Commission to more discursive responsiveness and provides for better accountability.

This article examines interactions between two conflicting discourses over the EU, public services and negotiations during the WTO Doha Round (2001–2012): on the one hand, the discourse of the anti-GATS transnational advocacy network, and on the other, that of the two EU Trade Commissioners. Conducting a frame analysis in a discursive institutionalist perspective, the eventfulness of political interactions is found to be more important than Commissioners' personal views, but differentiated institutional settings are even more crucial: the presence of a parliamentary arena in the EU arena, in particular, constrains Commissioners to engage with the discourse put forward by its critics; whereas in the global arena they tend to stick to their own framing of services liberalisation as a win-win process. The stalling of the Doha Round and the rise of the debt crisis have brought about new ways of framing threats related to the EU's trade policy.
Identification of Antimutagenic Properties of Anthocyanins and Other Polyphenols from Rose (Rosa centifolia) Petals and Tea
Authors: Kumar Sanjeev , Gautam Satyendra , Sharma Arun
Published: April 2013

Petals from different rose (Rosa centifolia) cultivars (“passion,” “pink noblesse,” and “sphinx”) were assessed for antimutagenicity using Escherichia coli RNA polymerase B (rpoB)‐based Rif S→Rif R (rifampicin sensitive to resistant) forward mutation assay against ethyl methanesulfonate (EMS)‐induced mutagenesis. The aqueous extracts of rose petals from different cultivars exhibited a wide variation in their antimutagenicity. Among these, cv. “passion” was found to display maximum antimutagenicity. Upon further fractionation, the anthocyanin extract of cv. “passion” displayed significantly higher antimutagenicity than its phenolic extract. During thin‐layer chromatography (TLC) analysis, the anthocyanin extract got resolved into 3 spots: yellow (Rf: 0.14), blue (Rf: 0.30), and pink (Rf: 0.49). Among these spots, the blue one displayed significantly higher antimutagenicity than the other 2. Upon high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis, this blue spot further got resolved into 2 peaks (Rt: 2.7 and 3.8 min). The 2nd peak (Rt: 3.8 min) displaying high antimutagenicity was identified by ESI‐IT‐MS/MS analysis as peonidin 3‐glucoside, whereas less antimutagenic peak 1 (Rt: 2.7) was identified as cyanidin 3, 5‐diglucoside. The other TLC bands were also characterized by ESI‐IT‐MS/MS analysis. The least antimutagenic pink band (Rf: 0.49) was identified as malvidin 3‐acetylglucoside‐4‐vinylcatechol, whereas non‐antimutagenic yellow band (Rf: 0.14) was identified as luteolinidin anthocyanin derivative. Interestingly, the anthocyanin extracted from rose tea of cv. “passion” exhibited a similar antimutagenicity as that of the raw rose petal indicating the thermal stability of the contributing bioactive(s). The findings thus indicated the health protective property of differently colored rose cultivars and the nature of their active bioingredients.
Cranberries and Wild Blueberries Treated with Gastrointestinal Enzymes Positively Modify Glutathione Mechanisms in Caco‐2 Cells In Vitro
Authors: Slemmer Jennifer E. , Livingston‐Thomas Jessica M. , Gottschall‐Pass Katherine T. , Sweeney Marva I.
Published: April 2013

Beneficial health effects of cranberries (CBs) and wild blueberries (BBs), such as reduced levels of oxidative stress, have been demonstrated in feeding studies. These Vaccinium berries contain high levels of flavonoids; however, the bioavailability of flavonoids is generally low. We investigated the in vitro effects of these berries on intestinal cells, focusing on mitigating oxidative stress and associated reactive oxygen species (ROS). First, we simulated the passage of CB and BB through the gastrointestinal (GI) tract by treating berry homogenates to a battery of digestive enzymes. Then, Caco‐2 cells, a model of small intestine epithelial uptake, were exposed to these homogenates for 60 min. Using a cell‐free assay, we found that the antioxidant activity in CB homogenates was not affected by these enzymes, but that BB homogenates treated with gut enzymes had 43% lower free‐radical quenching activity (P < 0.05). However, both of the enzyme‐treated homogenates were still able to counteract the ROS‐generating ability of H2O2 added exogenously to Caco‐2 cells. Berry homogenates also increased mitochondrial metabolic rates at 60 min posttreatment, as measured by MTT assays. Enzyme‐treated CB (but not BB) homogenates increased the levels of reduced glutathione (GSH) relative to oxidized glutathione (GSSG), a critical indicator of the cellular redox state (P < 0.05). Our data suggest that CBs do not lose their antioxidant ability when passing through the GI tract, and specifically, digested CB may serve to enhance cytoprotective effects in intestinal cells by reducing potential damage caused by free radicals and ROS derived from other food sources.
Ant diversity partitioning across spatial scales: Ecological processes and implications for conservingTropicalDryForests
Authors: Marques Tatianne , Schoereder José H.
Published: April 2013

Several ecological and evolutionary processes can drive changes in diversity at different spatial scales. To determine the scale at which these processes are most influential, we hypothesized that (i) broad‐scale differences between ecoregions had greater influence on ant species richness and species turnover than local differences among fragments within ecoregions; and (ii) the degree of dissimilarity in ant species composition is larger betweenTropicalDryForest fragments and the surrounding vegetations than amongTropicalDryForests located in different ecoregions, indicating that extantTropicalDryForests are relicts of a broader distribution of this vegetation. To examine ant diversity patterns, we built a nested hierarchical design on three spatial scales, ranging from fragments (local scale),TropicalDryForest + surroundings vegetation (landscape scale) andBrazilian ecoregions (regional scale). We used 450 sampling units (45 sampling units × two fragments × five ecoregions = 450). A null model based on the sample was used to identify variations in the random distribution across spatial scales. Spatial partitioning of ant diversity showed that observed β1diversity (between fragments) and β2diversity (among ecoregions) were higher than expected by chance. When the partitioning was analysed separately for each region, the observed β1diversity (TropicalDryForest and surrounding vegetation) was higher than expected by the null hypothesis in all ecoregions ofBrazil. Based on species composition and diversity patterns, we stress the importance of creating more protected areas throughout the coverage area ofTropicalDryForests, favouring a more efficient conservation process.
Contrasting habitat use of morphologically similar bat species with differing conservation status in south‐easternAustralia
Authors: McConville Anna , Law Bradley , Penman Trent , Mahony Michael
Published: April 2013

The east‐coast free‐tailed batMormopterus norfolkensis Gray, 1839 is a threatened insectivorous bat that is poorly known and as such conservation management strategies are only broadly prescribed. Insectivorous bats that use human‐modified landscapes are often adapted to foraging in open microhabitats. However, few studies have explored whether open‐adapted bats select landscapes with more of these microhabitat features. We compared three morphologically similar and sympatric, molossid bats (genusMormopterus) with different conservation status in terms of their association with vegetation, climate, landform and land‐use attributes at landscape and local habitat element scales. We predicted that these species would use similar landscape types, with semi‐cleared and low density urban landscapes used more than forested and heavily cleared landscapes. Additionally, we explored which environmental variables best explained the occurrence of each species by constructingpost‐hocmodels and habitat suitability maps. Contrary to predictions, we found that the three species varied in their habitat use with no one landscape type used more extensively than other types. Overall,M. norfolkensiswas more likely to occur in low‐lying, non‐urban, riparian habitats with little vegetation cover.Mormopterusspecies 2 occupied similar habitats, but was more tolerant of urban landscapes. In contrast,Mormopterusspecies 4 occurred more often in cleared than forested landscapes, particularly dry landscapes with little vegetation cover. The extensive use of coastal floodplains by the threatenedM. norfolkensisis significant because these habitats are under increasing pressure from human land‐uses and the predicted increase in urbanization is likely to further reduce the amount of suitable habitat.
Extensive polymorphism of the major histocompatibility complex DRA gene in Balkan donkeys: perspectives on selection and genealogy
Authors: Arbanasić Haidi , Galov Ana , Ambriović‐Ristov Andreja , Grizelj Juraj , Arsenos Georgios , Marković Božidarka , Dovenski Toni , Vince Silvijo , Čurik Ino
Published: April 2013

The major histocompatibility complex (MHC) contains genes important for immune response in mammals, and these genes exhibit high polymorphism and diversity. The DRA gene, a member of the MHC class II family, is highly conserved across a large number of mammalian species, but it displays exceptionally rich sequence variations in Equidae members. We analyzed allelic polymorphism of the DRA locus in 248 donkeys sampled across the Balkan Peninsula (Albania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Macedonia, Greece and Montenegro). Five known alleles and two new alleles were identified. The new allele Eqas‐DRA*0601 was found to carry a synonymous mutation, and new allele Eqas‐DRA*0701, a non‐synonymous mutation. We further analyzed the historical selection and allele genealogy at the DRA locus in equids. Signals of positive selection obtained by various tests were ambiguous. A conservative conclusion is that DRA polymorphism occurred relatively recently and that positive selection has been acting on the DRA locus for a relatively brief period.
A focus group study investigating medical decision making in octogenarians of high socioeconomic status with successful outcomes following cardiac surgery
Authors: Oldroyd John C , Levinson Michele R , Stephenson Gemma , Rouse Alice , Leeuwrik Tina
Published: April 2013

Aim

To explore medical decision making in octogenarians having cardiac surgery.

Methods

Five focus groups conducted in a private hospital setting with octogenarians of high socioeconomic status who had successful cardiac surgery in the previous 3–13 months.

Results

Octogenarian's motivations for having cardiac surgery include survival, relief of symptoms, convenience and improving quality of life. The decision to have surgery involved clinical advice by doctors that the time had come to take up a surgical option. Patient's decisions did not take into account alternative treatment options either because these had not been presented by doctors or because medical management had failed. The final decision was made by patients.

Conclusions

Decisions to have cardiac surgery in octogenarians are made by patients after discussions with family based on their risks as communicated by their doctors. This underlines the importance of effective risk communication by doctors to help patients make appropriate medical decisions.
IgE‐mediated anaphylaxis and allergic reactions to idursulfase in patients withHunter syndrome
Authors: Kim J. , Park M. R. , Kim D. S. , Lee J. O. , Maeng S. H. , Cho S. Y. , Han Y. , Ahn K. , Jin D. K.
Published: April 2013

Background

Enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) with recombinant human idursulfase is effective for the treatment of Hunter syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis (MPS) typeII. However, various adverse events can occur by the infusion of idursulfase. The purpose was to evaluate the occurrence of infusion‐related allergic reactions, including anaphylaxis, to idursulfase in patients withMPS IIreceivingERTand to elucidate its possible mechanism.

Methods

A total of 34 patients withMPS IIwere enrolled to receiveERTwith Elaprase®at a dose of 0.5 mg/kg intravenously once a week. Information regarding the symptoms, frequency, and timing of anaphylaxis during treatment was analyzed. Presence of anti‐idursulfaseIgEantibody was assessed by skin prick test (SPT) and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Western blotting was performed to confirm the reaction between idursulfase and specificIgE.

Results

Three patients (8.8%) showed anaphylaxis by infusion of idursulfase. No deaths occurred during the study. Anti‐idursulfaseIgEantibody was detected bySPTandELISA. Immunoblotting with patients’ sera and Elaprase®showed a single band of specificIgEbinding to the protein around 70 kD, and idursulfase did not display amino acid sequence homology to known allergens. SPT with idursulfase demonstrated positive results in all patients with anaphylaxis. However, we failed to reveal any risk factors for the development of infusion‐related immediate‐type allergic reactions.

Conclusions

Anaphylaxis related to infusion of idursulfase is mediated by anti‐idursulfaseIgEantibody, which might be produced by de novo synthesis. SPT is useful in predicting the occurrence of anti‐idursulfaseIgE‐mediated anaphylaxis during infusion.
Evaluation of Inflow Cannulation Site for Implantation of Right‐Sided Rotary Ventricular Assist Device
Authors: Gregory Shaun D. , Pearcy Mark J. , Fraser John , Timms Daniel
Published: April 2013

Right heart dysfunction is one of the most serious complications following implantation of a left ventricular assist device, often leading to the requirement for short‐ or long‐term right ventricular assist device (RVAD) support. The inflow cannulation site induces major hemodynamic changes and so there is a need to optimize the site used depending on the patient's condition. Therefore, this study evaluated and compared the hemodynamic influence of right atrial cannulation (RAC) and right ventricular cannulation (RVC) inflow sites. An in vitro variable heart failure mock circulation loop was used to compare RAC and RVC in mild and severe biventricular heart failure (BHF) conditions. In the severe BHF condition, higher ventricular ejection fraction (RAC: 13.6%, RVC: 32.7%) and thus improved heart chamber and RVAD washout were observed with RVC, which suggested this strategy might be preferable for long‐term support (i.e., bridge‐to‐transplant or destination therapy) to reduce the risk of thrombus formation. In the mild BHF condition, higher pulmonary valve flow (RAC: 3.33 L/min, RVC: 1.97 L/min) and lower right ventricular stroke work (RAC: 0.10 W, RVC: 0.13 W) and volumes were recorded with RAC. These results indicate an improved potential for myocardial recovery, thus RAC should be chosen in this condition. This in vitro study suggests that RVAD inflow cannulation site should be chosen on a patient‐specific basis with a view to the support strategy to promote myocardial recovery or reduce the risk of long‐term complications.
Feasibility of exclusive enteral feeds from birth in VLBW infants >1200 g – an RCT
Authors: Sanghvi Kishore P , Joshi Pooja , Nabi Fazal , Kabra Nandkishor
Published: April 2013

Aim

To evaluate the feasibility of initiation of exclusive enteral feeds on first day of life in very low birthweight infants >1200 g.

Methods

Haemodynamically stable infants with birthweights 1200–1500 g irrespective of gestational age were randomized into two groups. Study group: Enteral feeds 80 mL/kg/day started within 1 h of birth and increased by 20 mL/kg/day to 180 mL/kg/day. No intravenous fluids given. Control group: Intravenous fluids 50 mL/kg/day started along with enteral feeds 30 mL/kg/day within 1 h of birth and increased by 20 mL/kg/day to 180 mL/kg/day. The outcome measures were – primary: time to regain birthweight and secondary: duration of hospital stay, incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis and sepsis.

Results

Twenty three babies randomized in each group. Infants in study group regained birthweight earlier [mean 5.52 days, SD ± 2.94] compared to those in control group [mean 12.7 days, SD ± 2.25] (p < 0.0001). Duration of hospital stay was lower in study group [mean 15.04 days, SD ± 5.26] compared to those in control group [mean 28.04 days, SD ± 6.76] (p < 0.0001). No necrotizing enterocolitis detected.

Conclusion

It is feasible to initiate exclusive enteral feeds from first day of life in stable infants with birthweight between 1200 and 1500 g without any parenteral fluid support. It leads to twice as faster regaining of birthweight and halves duration of hospital stay.
Physical fitness and academic performance in middle school students
Authors: Bass Ronald W , Brown Dale D , Laurson Kelly R , Coleman Margaret M
Published: April 2013

Aim

The purpose of this study was to determine whether physical fitness is linked to academic success in middle school students.

Methods

The FITNESSGRAM test battery assessed students (n = 838) in the five components of health‐related fitness. The Illinois Standardized Achievement Test (ISAT) was used to assess academic achievement in reading and math.

Results

The largest correlations were seen for aerobic fitness and muscular endurance (ranging from 0.12 to 0.27, all p < 0.05). Boys in the Healthy Fitness Zone (HFZ) for aerobic fitness or muscular endurance were 2.5–3 times more likely to pass their math or reading exams. Girls in the HFZ for aerobic fitness were approximately 2–4 times as likely to meet or exceed reading and math test standards.

Conclusions

Aerobic capacity and muscular endurance seem to positively affect academic achievement in middle school students.
The Association between Controlled Interpersonal Affect Regulation and Resource Depletion
Authors: Martínez‐Íñigo David , Poerio Giulia Lara , Totterdell Peter
Published: April 2013

Background: This investigation focuses on what occurs to individuals' self‐regulatory resource during controlled Interpersonal Affect Regulation (IAR) which is the process of deliberately influencing the internal feeling states of others. Combining the strength model of self‐regulation and the resources conservation model, the investigation tested whether: (1) IAR behaviors are positively related to ego‐depletion because goal‐directed behaviors demand self‐regulatory processes, and (2) the use of affect‐improving strategies benefits from a source of resource‐recovery because it initiates positive feedback from targets, as proposed from a resource‐conservation perspective. Method: To test this, a lab study based on an experimental dual‐task paradigm using a sample of pairs of friends in the UK and a longitudinal field study of a sample of healthcare workers in Spain were conducted. Results: The experimental study showed a depleting effect of interpersonal affect‐improving IAR on a subsequent self‐regulation task. The field study showed that while interpersonal affect‐worsening was positively associated with depletion, as indicated by the level of emotional exhaustion, interpersonal affect‐improving was only associated with depletion after controlling for the effect of positive feedback from clients. Conclusion: The findings indicate that IAR does have implications for resource depletion, but that social reactions play a role in the outcome.
Cardioprotective Effects of Nicorandil, a Mitochondrial Potassium Channel Opener against Doxorubicin‐Induced Cardiotoxicity in Rats
Authors: Abdel‐Raheem Ihab T. , Taye Ashraf , Abouzied Mekky M.
Published: April 2013

Doxorubicin is a chemotherapeutic drug used to treat solid and haematopoietic tumours. Its use is limited by a major side effect of cardiotoxicity. It was reported that doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity is mediated through oxidative stress coupled with impaired NO bioavailability and NF‐κB activation. Nicorandil, a mitochondrial ATP‐dependent potassium (KATP) channel opener, was reported to be cardioprotective on ischaemic myocardium. However, the effect of nicorandil against doxorubicin‐induced cardiotoxicity has not yet been clarified. Accordingly, six groups of rats were used. The first three groups were injected with vehicle, nicorandil (3 mg/kg) orally and doxorubicin (a single intraperitoneal injection of 20 mg/kg), respectively. Group four was treated with nicorandil, whereas group five was treated with glibenclamide and then nicorandil starting 2 days before doxorubicin and continued for five consecutive days. Group six was treated with glibenclamide alone. At the end of the experiment, the rats were killed. Cardiac enzyme indexes were measured in serum. Heart tissues were processed for determination of nitrite/nitrate, NF‐κB protein expression, glutathione (GSH), lipid peroxide (TBARS) levels and superoxide production. In addition to body‐weight reduction, doxorubicin produced cardiotoxicity as indicated from the increase in lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), creatine kinase (CK) activities, TBARS, superoxide production, NF‐κB expression and caspase‐3 activity. Moreover, doxorubicin decreased GSH and nitrite/nitrate levels. Histopathological examination of doxorubicin‐treated hearts revealed degenerative changes. On the other hand, nicorandil protected cardiac tissues against doxorubicin cardiotoxicity as demonstrated from normalization of cardiac biochemical and oxidative stress parameters and amelioration of histopathological changes. Glibenclamide, a blocker of the KATP channel, reversed most of the cardiac effects of nicorandil.
White matter differences in euthymic bipolar I disorder: a combined magnetic resonance imaging and diffusion tensor imaging voxel‐based study
Authors: Emsell Louise , Langan Camilla , Van Hecke Wim , Barker Gareth J , Leemans Alexander , Sunaert Stefan , McCarthy Peter , Nolan Rachel , Cannon Dara M , McDonald Colm
Published: April 2013

Objectives

A broad range of subtle and markedly heterogenous neuroanatomical abnormalities of grey matter and white matter have been reported in bipolar disorder. Euthymic bipolar disorder patients represent a clinically homogenous group in which to identify trait‐based biomarkers of bipolar disorder. In this study, we sought to clarify the nature and extent of neuroanatomical differences in a large, clinically homogeneous group of euthymic bipolar disorder patients.

Methods

Structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI) was obtained for 60 patients with prospectively confirmed euthymic bipolar I disorder and 60 individually age‐ and gender‐matched healthy volunteers. High angular resolution diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) scans were obtained for a subset of this sample comprising 35 patients and 43 controls. Voxel‐based analysis of both sMRI and DTI data sets was performed.

Results

Bipolar disorder patients displayed global reductions in white matter volume and fractional anisotropy reductions in the corpus callosum, posterior cingulum, and prefrontal white matter compared with controls. There were corresponding increases in radial diffusivity in the callosal splenium in patients compared with controls. No significant group differences were detected in grey matter. In patients, lithium was associated with a bilateral increase in grey matter volume in the temporal lobes, but not with any DTI parameter.

Conclusions

Euthymic bipolar I disorder is characterized by both diffuse global white matter deficits and potential regional disorganization in interhemispheric and longitudinal tracts, while grey matter appears to be preserved.
The subject of neoliberal affects: Rural youth envision their futures
Authors: Cairns Kate
Published: April 2013

This article contributes to debates about subjectivity formation in neoliberal times by analyzing the emotional geographies of students’ imagined futures. Drawing upon ethnographic research in a white, working‐class rural Ontario school, I examine students’ participation in The Real Game, a career education program that attempts to prepare grade 7/8 students for their adult futures. A curricular tool that espouses neoliberal tenets of flexibility, mobility, and self‐improvement, The Real Game offers a site through which to explore the interplay between governing discourses and student subjectivities. Bringing Ahmed's critique of happiness narratives to an analysis of student interviews, I demonstrate how neoliberal governance operates affectively. As educational discourses idealize the self‐reliant, future‐oriented subject, students are trained to internalize neoliberal uncertainty as a set of insecurities to be managed on an affective level. The distinctly spatial operation of neoliberalism is apparent in Fieldsville students’ future narratives, where dominant ideals of mobility conflict with local identifications and an allegiance to place. Students manage these pressures affectively, as they narrate their own movement and improvement through stories of hope, fear, and wonder. Thus, I argue that studies of the emotional geographies of education are integral to understanding how neoliberalism is lived in place.
“New markets must be conquered”: Race, gender, and the embodiment of entrepreneurship within texts
Authors: Knight Melanie
Published: April 2013

The past decade has seen an exponential growth of postsecondary entrepreneurship programs. This article focuses on curriculum and training materials as they enable an analysis of the nuanced ways in which entrepreneurship and “the enterprising” are conceptualized, and how texts inform future entrepreneurs to embody the language of entrepreneurship. I situate this article within the fields of sociology, entrepreneurship education, and geography and bring a spatial analysis of race, gender, and class to a normally non‐spatial area of study. Although the enterprising discourse is perceived as race, gender, and class neutral, the management and self‐discipline required serve to legitimize a White, male, liberal, able‐bodied subject. Whiteness is also upheld through the privileging of abstract thinking, mobility, and the mapping of Other space. Meanwhile, entrepreneurship defined as the art of exploiting opportunities and as a creative destruction of space presents a very linear understanding of place, space, and community, dehistoricizing and decontextualizing entrepreneurship; and perpetuating a colonial, imperialist view of entrepreneurship which serves to uphold a universal, unmarked, white subject. This critique aims to allow for an understanding of the complexity of entrepreneurship, space, community, and subjectivity.
Incidence of donor‐specific antibodies in kidney transplant patients following conversion to an everolimus‐based calcineurin inhibitor‐free regimen
Authors: Kamar Nassim , Del Bello Arnaud , Congy‐Jolivet Nicolas , Guilbeau‐Frugier Céline , Cardeau‐Desangles Isabelle , Fort Marylise , Esposito Laure , Guitard Joelle , Gamé Xavier , Rostaing Lionel
Published: April 2013

Scarce data exist regarding the incidence of donor‐specific antibodies (DSAs) in kidney transplant patients receiving everolimus‐based immunosuppression without calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs). The aim of this retrospective case–control study was to compare the incidence of de novo DSAs in patients converted to an everolimus‐based regimen without CNIs with that seen in patients maintained on CNIs. Sixty‐one DSA‐free kidney transplant patients who had been converted to an everolimus‐based regimen (everolimus group) were compared to 61 other patients maintained on CNIs‐based regimen (control group). Patients were matched according to age, gender, induction therapy, date of transplantation, and being DSA‐free at baseline. At last follow‐up, the incidence of DSAs was 9.8% in the everolimus group and 5% in the control group (p = ns). In the everolimus group, the increased incidence of DSAs between baseline and last follow‐up was statistically significant. Antibody‐mediated rejection occurred in 6.5% in the everolimus group and 0% in the CNIs group. The incidence of DSAs is numerically increased in kidney transplant patients treated with an everolimus‐based without CNIs. A study including a larger number of patients is required to determine whether a CNI‐free everolimus‐based immunosuppression significantly increases DSAs formation.
The significance of cytomegalovirus viremia at day 100 or more following allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: Rowe Julie , Grim Shellee A. , Peace David , Lai Catherine , Sweiss Karen , Layden Jennifer E. , Clark Nina M.
Published: April 2013

We conducted a single‐center retrospective review of patients who had received allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) between January 2003 and December 2007, to assess the incidence and risk factors for late CMV infection and evaluate its effects on outcomes. Twenty of 49 HSCT recipients (41%) developed CMV infection at day ≥100 after transplant. Univariable analysis showed that having a matched unrelated donor, having early CMV infection, having a diagnosis of lymphoma, and receipt of antithymocyte globulin were risks for developing late CMV. On multivariable analysis, the occurrence of CMV prior to day 100 and lymphoma conferred a significant risk for late CMV infection. Of the 20 patients with late CMV infection, two patients manifested CMV disease (10%). Despite the relatively low incidence of CMV disease, patients with late CMV infection had a 4.8‐fold increased risk of death compared to patients without late CMV. Identifying patients at increased risk for developing late CMV infection may be important for prompting more intensive monitoring of infection late after HSCT, particularly because this manifestation of CMV is associated with poorer outcomes.
Opportunistic yeast infections: candidiasis, cryptococcosis, trichosporonosis and geotrichosis
Authors: Vázquez‐González Denisse , Perusquía‐Ortiz Ana María , Hundeiker Max , Bonifaz Alexandro
Published: April 2013

Opportunistic yeast infections are diseases caused by fungi which normally are saprophytic and do not cause disease in humans or animals. The prevalence of these diseases has been increasing due to immunosuppressive, corticosteroid, and long‐term antibiotic treatment following organ transplantation or after serious metabolic, hematological, or immunological diseases. We review epidemiological, clinical, diagnostic, and therapeutic aspects of the four “big” opportunistic yeast infections: candidiasis, cryptococcosis, trichosporonosis, and geotrichosis.
Analysis of 627 hospitalized maxillofacial–oral injuries in Xi'an, China
Authors: Jin Zuolin , Jiang Xun , Shang Lei
Published: April 2013

Background

Maxillofacial–oral injuries is a serious health problem in China. The main aetiologic factors and types of maxillofacial–oral injuries differ according to different geographical areas and socio‐economic statuses of populations in different countries or within the same country.

Aim

The aim of this study was to analyze the types and external causes of maxillofacial–oral injuries among hospitalized patients in Xi'an, China, and thereafter to determine the status of maxillofacial–oral injuries in this region and to provide clinical clues for a future prevention of these injuries.

Material and Methods

Totally, 627 patients aged 3–64 years with maxillofacial–oral injuries, who were hospitalized in two public stomatological hospitals in Xi'an from 1 January 2008 to 31 December 2008, were included in this study. The types and external causes of injuries were analyzed in terms of age, gender and urban and rural location.

Results

The results showed that jaw fractures (n = 406, 64.8%) and contusion/laceration injuries (n = 161, 25.7%) were the most frequent injuries. Injuries were 4.6 times more common in males than in females. Most maxillofacial–oral injuries occurred in those aged 18–59 years (71.1%), with a peak incidence in the 15‐ to 39‐year‐old group (31.4%). The proportion of patients from urban areas (45.5%) was lower than that from rural areas (54.4%). Regardless of gender, age and location, vehicle traffic accidents was the most common cause (n = 263, 41.9%), followed by falls (n = 109, 17.2%) and fighting‐induced injuries (n = 87, 13.9%).

Conclusions

Preventive strategies for maxillofacial–oral injuries due to traffic accidents should be emphasized and promoted in the first hand, especially for males, rural residents and those aged between 18 and 59 years.
Oviposition dynamics and larval development of Helicoverpa armigera on a highly preferred unsuitable host plant, Solanum viarum
Authors: Srinivasan R. , Su Fu‐cheng , Huang Chun‐chu
Published: April 2013

Oogenesis and oviposition dynamics of female moths of tomato fruitworm, Helicoverpa armigera Hübner (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae), were compared in a monoculture of tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and in mixtures with a highly preferred but unsuitable host plant, Solanum viarum Dunal. Female H. armigera provided with S. viarum laid many more eggs than those provided with tomato, both in choice and no‐choice experiments. Gravid female moths did not display any preference for oviposition neither between young or old plants of S. viarum or tomato, nor between young and old leaves of S. viarum. Larval mortality and larval developmental period significantly increased, with subsequent reduction in pupal weight, when H. armigera larvae fed on S. viarum leaves compared to a meridic diet. Oviposition of female moths significantly increased in tomato in the presence of S. viarum volatiles. However, in screen cages with an increasing percentage of S. viarum as a trap crop, the number of eggs laid on tomato as the main crop was the same. The results of this study are discussed in light of the possibility of using S. viarum as a ‘dead‐end’ trap crop.
Radiographic configuration and healing of 121 fractures of the proximal phalanx in 120Thoroughbred racehorses (2007–2011)
Authors: Smith M. R. W. , Wright I. M.
Published: April 2013

Reasons for performing study

Although fractures of the proximal phalanx are one of the most common long bone fractures ofThoroughbred horses in training, limited details on variations in morphology and radiological progression have been published.

Objectives

To describe in detail the configuration of parasagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx in a group ofThoroughbred racehorses, to report fracture distribution within this group of horses and to document radiological progression of fracture healing in cases treated by internal fixation.

Study design

Restrospective case series.

Methods

Case records and radiographs ofThoroughbred racehorses with parasagittal fractures of the proximal phalanx admitted toNewmarketEquineHospital between 2007 and 2011 were analysed.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐one fractures were identified in 120Thoroughbred racehorses. Fractures were frequently more complex than was appreciated immediately following injury; a feature that has not been reported previously. There was seasonality of fractures in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old horses, but not in older horses.

Conclusions and potential relevance

Fractures of the proximal phalanx may be more complex than recognised previously, although often their complexity cannot be identified radiographically immediately following injury. The seasonality observed in 2‐ and 3‐year‐old horses is most likely to be a consequence of the timing of the turf‐racing season in theUK.

The Summary is available inChinese – see Supporting information.
Bacterial landscape of human skin: seeing the forest for the trees
Authors: Alexeyev Oleg A.
Published: April 2013

Skin harbours large communities of colonizing bacteria. The same bacterial species can exist in different physiological states: viable, dormant, non‐viable. Each physiological state can have a different impact on skin health and disease. Various analytical methodologies target different physiological states of bacteria, and this must be borne in mind while interpreting microbiological tests and drawing conclusions about possible cause–effect relationships.
The search for organizing principles as a cure against reductionism in systems medicine
Authors: Wolkenhauer Olaf , Green Sara
Published: April 2013

Biological complexity has forced scientists to develop highly reductive approaches, with an ever‐increasing degree of specialization. As a consequence, research projects have become fragmented, and their results strongly dependent on the experimental context. The general research question, that originally motivated these projects, appears to have been forgotten in many highly specialized research programmes. We here investigate the prospects for use of an old regulative ideal from systems theory to describe the organization of cellular systems ‘in general’ by identifying key concepts, challenges and strategies to pursue the search for organizing principles. We argue that there is no tension between the complexity of biological systems and the search for organizing principles. On the contrary, it is the complexity of organisms and the current level of techniques and knowledge that urge us to renew the search for organizing principles in order to meet the challenges that are arise from reductive approaches in systems medicine. Reductive approaches, as important and inevitable as they are, should be complemented by an integrative strategy that de‐contextualizes through abstractions, and thereby generalizes results.
Spanish Teachers' Sense of Humor and Student Performance on the National Spanish Exams
Authors: Swanson Peter B.
Published: April 2013

Research suggests that second/foreign language teachers' sense of humor is directly related to many outcomes for teachers and their students. This research investigates the relationship between the perceived sense of humor of in‐service Spanish teachers' (n = 102) and their students' (n = 5,419) score on the National Spanish Exams using the affective filter hypothesis as a conceptual framework. Statistical analyses indicate that Spanish teacher sense of humor is related to student achievement on the exams. This research has implications for language teachers and teacher educators.
Virus dynamics in a large epishelf lake (Beaver Lake, Antarctica)
Authors: Laybourn‐Parry Johanna , Anesio Alexandre M. , Madan Nanette , Säwström Christin
Published: April 2013

Virus concentrations, virus‐to‐bacterium ratios (VBRs) and levels of lysogenic phage were measured throughout the 110‐m water column of epishelf Beaver Lake during the austral summer of 2003/2004. The aim was to determine which factor(s) controlled viral dynamics using detailed concomitant published data on inorganic nutrients, chlorophyll a, dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and bacterial production for Beaver Lake (Freshwater Biology, 51, 2006, 1119). Denaturing Gradient Gel Electrophoresis (DGGE) analysis of the bacterial community was also undertaken to investigate the potential relationship between bacterial community composition and viral dynamics.

Virus concentration ranged between 1.43 × 104 and 302.4 × 104 viruses mL−1 and showed a clear increase over the summer, while bacterial concentrations exhibited no seasonal pattern (range: 9.6 × 104 to 44.6 × 104 cells mL−1). Consequently, VBR varied with highest values in January (3.32–7.33).

The percentage of lysogenic phage was low, ranging from 0 to 11.69%, suggesting that other life cycles (i.e. lytic or possibly pseudolysogeny) were taking place. Attempts to measure viral production using both the TdR incorporation technique and the dilution technique failed to produce consistent results, in common with other ultra‐oligotrophic Antarctic lakes.

There were significant correlations between viral concentration and each of chlorophyll a, DOC, ammonium and nitrate concentrations and bacterial production, but not between bacterial abundance and either soluble reactive phosphorus or temperature.

Lack of change in the dominant bacterial community composition over summer suggests that changes in viral concentrations were a function of changes in other biological and physicochemical factors, rather than changes in host/phage infection.

The results suggest a significant connection between viruses and bacteria, with the DOC pool acting as a conduit for the movement of carbon between the two components.
Ecological niche modeling of coastal dune plants and future potential distribution in response to climate change and sea level rise
Authors: Mendoza‐González Gabriela , Martínez M. Luisa , Rojas‐Soto Octavio R. , Vázquez Gabriela , Gallego‐Fernández Juan B.
Published: April 2013

Climate change (CC) and sea level rise (SLR) are phenomena that could have severe impacts on the distribution of coastal dune vegetation. To explore this we modeled the climatic niches of six coastal dunes plant species that grow along the shoreline of the Gulf of Mexico and the Yucatan Peninsula, and projected climatic niches to future potential distributions based on two CC scenarios and SLR projections. Our analyses suggest that distribution of coastal plants will be severely limited, and more so in the case of local endemics (Chamaecrista chamaecristoides, Palafoxia lindenii, Cakile edentula). The possibilities of inland migration to the potential ‘new shoreline’ will be limited by human infrastructure and ecosystem alteration that will lead to a ‘coastal squeeze’ of the coastal habitats. Finally, we identified areas as future potential refuges for the six species in central Gulf of Mexico, and northern Yucatán Peninsula especially under CC and SLR scenarios.
Chronic ozone exacerbates the reduction in photosynthesis and acceleration of senescence caused by limited N availability in Nicotiana sylvestris
Authors: Yendrek Craig R. , Leisner Courtney P. , Ainsworth Elizabeth A.
Published: April 2013

Both elevated ozone (O3) and limiting soil nitrogen (N) availability negatively affect crop performance. However, less is known about how the combination of elevated O3 and limiting N affect crop growth and metabolism. In this study, we grew tobacco (Nicotiana sylvestris) in ambient and elevated O3 at two N levels (limiting and sufficient). Results at the whole plant, leaf, and cellular level showed that primary metabolism was reduced by growth in limiting N, and that reduction was exacerbated by exposure to elevated O3. Limiting N reduced the rates of photosynthetic CO2 uptake by 40.8% in ambient O3‐exposed plants, and by 58.6% in elevated O3‐exposed plants, compared with plants grown with sufficient N. Reductions in photosynthesis compounded to cause large differences in leaf and whole plant parameters including leaf number, leaf area, and leaf and root biomass. These results were consistent with our meta‐analysis of all published studies of plant responses to elevated O3 and N availability. In tobacco, N uptake and allocation was also affected by growth in limiting N and elevated O3, and there was an O3‐induced compensatory response that resulted in increased N recycling from senescing leaves. In addition, transcript‐based markers were used to track the progress through senescence, and indicated that limiting N and elevated O3, separately and in combination, caused an acceleration of senescence. These results suggest that reductions in crop productivity in growing regions with poor soil fertility will be exacerbated by rising background O3.