bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolving ‘self’‐management: exploring the role of social network typologies on individual long‐term condition management
Authors: Morris Rebecca L. , Kennedy Anne , Sanders Caroline
Published: August 2015

Background

Whilst there has been a focus on the importance of social support for managing long‐term conditions, there has been little specific focus on the characteristics of social networks that shape self‐management. Policy emphasis is placed on individual responsibility for self‐care, and this influences commissioning of health‐care services. Assumptions are often made by policymakers about accessibility and preference for support and the influence of the social context on chronic illness management.

Objective

To examine the social networks of individuals with long‐term conditions and identify how the characteristics of their composition influences support needs.

Design, setting and participants

Thirty participants completed initial face‐to‐face in‐depth interviews, telephone follow‐ups and final face‐to‐face interviews in the north‐west of England. A longitudinal qualitative design was used to elicit the subtle changes in relationships over a year.

Findings

The findings suggest that the relationships which constitute a social network influence perceived support needs and attitudes to self‐management. The amalgamation of relationships was characterized into three network typologies (family focused, friend focused or health‐care professional focused) according to which types of relationships were dominant. In the absence of support, accounts highlighted a small number of substitutes who could provide support at times of critical need.

Discussion

This study challenges the notion of ‘self’‐management as an individual construct as many of the practices of illness management involved the support and/or negotiation of roles with others. By examining the nuances of relationships, this study has highlighted the tacit boundaries of practical and emotional support provision.
Rights and duties policy implementation in Chile: health‐care professionals’ perceptions
Authors: Barrera Constanza R. , Negrón Camila P. , Barría R. Mauricio , Méndez Claudio A.
Published: August 2015

Objective

To explore the perceptions of health professionals in an integrated network of public provision of health services regarding the implementation of the Law on Rights and Duties of People in Chile.

Method

Qualitative descriptive study. A stratified qualitative sample of 53 professionals from five low complexity centres and one from a high complexity centre, all part of the integrated network of health services in Valdivia, Los Rios Region, Chile, were selected according to the criteria of an overall saturation of the explored dimensions. The information was gathered through a semi‐structured, in‐depth interview carried out after signing the informed consent. Data were analysed using an inductive approach of content analysis.

Results

Three categories emerged from the interviews: conceptualization and knowledge, factors influencing the implementation and recommendations for strengthening the implementation, and seven subcategories. It was highlighted that health professionals in the health‐care network perceived difficulties in implementing the Law on rights and duties of patients. Among them were the lack of knowledge about the Law, poor exposure and a lack of resources for its implementation. They suggested adapting the infrastructure of the institution and offering training as recommendations to improve the implementation of the Law.

Conclusions

There are hindering factors for the implementation of the Law related to organizational and professional gaps in the institutions providing health care.
Effects of fining with different bentonite labels and doses on colloidal stability and colour of a Valpolicella red wine
Authors: Dordoni Roberta , Galasi Roberta , Colangelo Donato , De Faveri Dante Marco , Lambri Milena
Published: August 2015

This study addressed four different labels of activated sodium bentonite during the fining of a young Valpolicella red wine. Preliminary tests determined the bentonite dose (0.15, 0.30 or 0.50 g L−1) that would achieve colloidal stability, and this dose was further applied during laboratory‐scale trials. The bentonites were characterised by physico‐chemical parameters, and the effects of the label and dose on the wine colloidal stability, proteins, colour indices and phenolic compounds were measured. The results demonstrated that 0.50 g L−1 for every bentonite label provided colloidal stabilisation without harshly affecting the colour. Unlike to what happens in white wines the least charged bentonite labels were effective at stabilising the red wine colloidal state by partially reducing its protein content. Simultaneously, the most negatively charged clay samples determined the largest depletions on the total polyphenols, anthocyanins, tannins and polymeric pigments. The differentiated action of clays with different surface charge density among white and red wines may be explained by the interaction mediated by positively charged anthocyanins towards either protein or tannin depletion. Although pioneering, these results may move towards the definition of a safe, allergen‐free, and effective adjuvant for colloidal stabilisation targeted to wine type.
Individual patient data meta-analysis of antiplatelet regimens after noncardioembolic stroke or TIA: rationale and design
Authors:   The Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists' Collaborative Group, Greving Jacoba P. , Diener Hans-Christoph , Csiba László , Hacke Werner , Kappelle L. Jaap , Koudstaal Peter J. , Leys Didier , Mas Jean-Louis , Sacco Ralph L. , Sivenius Juhani , Algra Ale
Published: August 2015

Background

The Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaborative Group was formed to obtain and analyze individual patient data from the major randomized trials of common antiplatelet regimens after cerebral ischemia. Although the risk of stroke can be reduced by antiplatelet drugs, there continues to be uncertainty about the balance of risk and benefits of different antiplatelet regimens for an individual patient.

Aims

Our aim is to provide clinicians with a thorough evidence-based answer on these therapeutic alternatives.

Methods

We have identified six large randomized trials and plan to meta-analyze the data on an individual patient level. In total, these trials have enrolled 46 948 patients with cerebral ischemia. Uniquely, the Cerebrovascular Antiplatelet Trialists’ Collaborative Group has secured access to the individual data of all of these trials, with the participation of key investigators and pharmaceutical companies. Our principal objective includes deriving a reliable estimate of the efficacy of different antiplatelet regimens on key outcomes including serious vascular events, major ischemic events, major bleeding, and intracranial hemorrhage.

Results

We propose to redefine composite outcome events, if necessary, to achieve comparability. Further, we aim to build and validate prognostic models for the risk of major bleeding and intracranial hemorrhage and to build a decision model that may support evidence-based decision making about which antiplatelet regimen would be most effective in different risk groups of patients.

Conclusions

This paper outlines inclusion criteria, outcome measures, baseline characteristics, and planned statistical analysis.
Does Personalized Medicine Exist and Can You Test it in a Clinical Trial?
Authors: Sandercock Peter A. G.
Published: August 2015

The idea that different patients will respond differently to the same treatment is not new. The recent advances in genomics and laboratory medicine have led to the hope that it will be possible to maximize the benefit and minimize the harms of each medical therapy by using an individuals' biomarker status to ‘personalize’ their treatment. The selection of treatment for each individual would then be determined, not just by their disease status (or an estimate of the risk of developing a disease or disease progression), but also by their genetic makeup or by other measurable characteristics, such as the level of a particular biomarker in the blood. This review discusses the extent to which personalized medicine might be applied in stroke, and the implications for global stroke health care.
Statistical Analysis Plan for Evaluating Low- vs. Standard-Dose Alteplase in the Enhanced Control of Hypertension and Thrombolysis Stroke Study (Enchanted)
Authors: Anderson Craig S. , Woodward Mark , Arima Hisatomi , Chen Xiaoying , Lindley Richard I. , Wang Xia , Chalmers John
Published: August 2015

Background

The ENhanced Control of Hypertension And Thrombolysis strokE stuDy trial is a 2 × 2 quasi-factorial active-comparison, prospective, randomized, open, blinded endpoint clinical trial that is evaluating in thrombolysis-eligible acute ischemic stroke patients whether: (1) low-dose (0·6 mg/kg body weight) intravenous alteplase has noninferior efficacy and lower risk of symptomatic intracerebral hemorrhage compared with standard-dose (0·9 mg/kg body weight) intravenous alteplase; and (2) early intensive blood pressure lowering (systolic target 130–140 mmHg) has superior efficacy and lower risk of any intracerebral hemorrhage compared with guideline-recommended blood pressure control (systolic target <180 mmHg).

Objective

To outline in detail the predetermined statistical analysis plan for the ‘alteplase dose arm’ of the study.

Methods

All data collected by participating researchers will be reviewed and formally assessed. Information pertaining to the baseline characteristics of patients, their process of care, and the delivery of treatments will be classified, and for each item, appropriate descriptive statistical analyses are planned with appropriate comparisons made between randomized groups. For the trial outcomes, the most appropriate statistical comparisons to be made between groups are planned and described.

Results

A statistical analysis plan was developed for the results of the alteplase dose arm of the study that is transparent, available to the public, verifiable, and predetermined before completion of data collection.

Conclusions

We have developed a predetermined statistical analysis plan for the ENhanced Control of Hypertension And Thrombolysis strokE stuDy alteplase dose arm which is to be followed to avoid analysis bias arising from prior knowledge of the study findings.
Marital rehabilitation after prostate cancer – a matter of intimacy
Authors: Dieperink Karin B. , Mark Karen , Mikkelsen Tina Broby
Published: August 2015

Prostate cancer is the most frequent male cancer disease in the western world. Sexual dysfunction is common after prostate cancer with radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy, but further research is needed to determine the lived experience of couples struggling with sexual dysfunction after treatment. The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experience of men and their partners experiencing sexual side effects after radiation therapy and androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer. In addition, to understand the role of a structured rehabilitation program on the couple's experience. Couples with persistent sexual problems were recruited among patients treated with radiotherapy or/and androgen deprivation therapy. Descriptive statistics were collected including age, race, education and work. Focus groups with each gender were conducted using open ended questions to encourage participants to talk about their experiences. Data were analyzed using Giorgi's phenomenological method. A total of eight couples were recruited, men age 67 years [standard deviation (SD) 6·3], women 65 years (SD 7·2). Results from the focus group interviews regarding marital relations were grouped in three themes: negative impact of sexual dysfunction on the relationship; other physical and psychological consequences of late adverse effects; communication issues and partner feelings of frustration. Results regarding the rehabilitation program were grouped in four themes: importance of peer support; importance of time and space for reflection; improved communication; optimism after rehabilitation. The couples in this study reported that the sexual side effects of prostate cancer treatment impacted their relationship and were problematic for both the men and their partners. The rehabilitation program improved the couples communication concerning sexual intimacy and issues related to prostate cancer treatment. It also offered a chance for peer support from others going through similar experiences and increased hope for navigating through sexual and intimacy issues in the future.
Comparative genomics of the NKG2D ligand gene family
Authors: Kasahara Masanori , Sutoh Yoichi
Published: August 2015

NKG2D ligands (NKG2DLs) are a group of stress‐inducible major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I‐like molecules that act as a danger signal alerting the immune system to the presence of abnormal cells. In mammals, two families of NKG2DL genes have been identified: the MIC gene family encoded in the MHC region and the ULBP gene family encoded outside the MHC region in most species. Some mammals have a third family of NKG2DL‐like class I genes which we named MILL (MHC class I‐like located near the leukocyte receptor complex). Despite the fact that MILL genes are more closely related to MIC genes than ULBP genes are to MIC genes, MILL molecules do not function as NKG2DLs, and their function remains unknown. With the progress of mammalian genome projects, information on the MIC, ULBP, and MILL gene families became available in many mammalian species. Here, we summarize such information and discuss the origin and evolution of the NKG2DL gene family from the viewpoint of host–pathogen coevolution.
Co‐evolution with chicken class I genes
Authors: Kaufman Jim
Published: August 2015

The concept of co‐evolution (or co‐adaptation) has a long history, but application at molecular levels (e.g., ‘supergenes’ in genetics) is more recent, with a consensus definition still developing. One interesting example is the chicken major histocompatibility complex (MHC). In contrast to typical mammals that have many class I and class I‐like genes, only two classical class I genes, two CD1 genes and some non‐classical Rfp‐Y genes are known in chicken, and all are found on the microchromosome that bears the MHC. Rarity of recombination between the closely linked and polymorphic genes encoding classical class I and TAPs allows co‐evolution, leading to a single dominantly expressed class I molecule in each MHC haplotype, with strong functional consequences in terms of resistance to infectious pathogens. Chicken tapasin is highly polymorphic, but co‐evolution with TAP and class I genes remains unclear. T‐cell receptors, natural killer (NK) cell receptors, and CD8 co‐receptor genes are found on non‐MHC chromosomes, with some evidence for co‐evolution of surface residues and number of genes along the avian and mammalian lineages. Over even longer periods, co‐evolution has been invoked to explain how the adaptive immune system of jawed vertebrates arose from closely linked receptor, ligand, and antigen‐processing genes in the primordial MHC.
Co‐evolution of MHC class I and variable NK cell receptors in placental mammals
Authors: Guethlein Lisbeth A. , Norman Paul J. , Hilton Hugo G. , Parham Peter
Published: August 2015

Shaping natural killer (NK) cell functions in human immunity and reproduction are diverse killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) that recognize polymorphic MHC class I determinants. A survey of placental mammals suggests that KIRs serve as variable NK cell receptors only in certain primates and artiodactyls. Divergence of the functional and variable KIRs in primates and artiodactyls predates placental reproduction. Among artiodactyls, cattle but not pigs have diverse KIRs. Catarrhine (humans, apes, and Old World monkeys) and platyrrhine (New World monkeys) primates, but not prosimians, have diverse KIRs. Platyrrhine and catarrhine systems of KIR and MHC class I are highly diverged, but within the catarrhines, a stepwise co‐evolution of MHC class I and KIR is discerned. In Old World monkeys, diversification focuses on MHC‐A and MHC‐B and their cognate lineage II KIR. With evolution of C1‐bearing MHC‐C from MHC‐B, as informed by orangutan, the focus changes to MHC‐C and its cognate lineage III KIR. Evolution of C2 from C1 and fixation of MHC‐C drove further elaboration of MHC‐C‐specific KIR, as exemplified by chimpanzee. In humans, the evolutionary trajectory changes again. Emerging from reorganization of the KIR locus and selective attenuation of KIR avidity for MHC class I are the functionally distinctive KIR A and KIR B haplotypes.
The killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors of macaques
Authors: Bimber Benjamin N. , Evans David T.
Published: August 2015

Natural killer (NK) cells play a central role in immune responses through direct cytotoxicity and the release of cytokines that prime adaptive immunity. In simian primates, NK cell responses are regulated by interactions between two highly polymorphic sets of molecules: the killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptors (KIRs) and their major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I ligands. KIR‐MHC class I interactions in humans have been implicated in the outcome of a number viral diseases and cancers. However, studies to address the role of KIRs in animal models have been limited by the complex immunogenetics and lack of defined ligands for KIRs in non‐human primates. Due to the rapid evolution of KIRs, there is little conservation among the KIR genes of different primate species and it is not possible to predict the specificity of KIRs from known KIR‐MHC class I interactions in humans. Hence, the MHC class I ligands for KIRs in species other than humans are poorly defined. Here, we review the KIR genes of the rhesus macaque, an important animal model for human immunodeficiency virus infection and other infectious diseases, and the MHC class I ligands that have been identified for KIRs in this species.
Influenza‐associated mortality in Thailand, 2006–2011
Authors: Aungkulanon Suchunya , Cheng Po‐Yung , Kusreesakul Khanitta , Bundhamcharoen Kanitta , Chittaganpitch Malinee , Margaret McCarron , Olsen Sonja
Published: August 2015

Background

Influenza‐associated mortality in subtropical or tropical regions, particularly in developing countries, remains poorly quantified and often underestimated. We analyzed data in Thailand, a middle‐income tropical country with good vital statistics and influenza surveillance data.

Methods

We obtained weekly mortality data for all‐cause and three underlying causes of death (circulatory and respiratory diseases, and pneumonia and influenza), and weekly influenza virus data, from 2006 to 2011. A negative binomial regression model was used to estimate deaths attributable to influenza in two age groups (<65 and ≥65 years) by incorporating influenza viral data as covariates in the model.

Results

From 2006 to 2011, the average annual influenza‐associated mortality per 100 000 persons was 4·0 (95% CI: −18 to 26). Eighty‐three percent of influenza‐associated deaths occurred among persons aged > 65 years. The average annual rate of influenza‐associated deaths was 0·7 (95% CI: −8·2 to 10) per 100 000 population for person aged <65 years and 42 (95% CI: −137 to 216) for person aged ≥ 65 years.

Discussion

In Thailand, estimated excess mortality associated with influenza was considerable even during non‐pandemic years. These data provide support for Thailand's seasonal influenza vaccination campaign. Continued monitoring of mortality data is important to assess impact.
Ni‐Coated SiC Particles: Synthesis and Densification
Authors: Nechiche Mustapha , Gauthier‐Brunet Véronique , Eyidi Dominique , Azem Said , Dubois Sylvain
Published: August 2015

The mechanofusion process, a dry particle coating route, has been successfully applied to coat micrometric SiC particles with submicrometric Ni filaments. In a first step, the mechanofusion parameters were optimized to form a continuous Ni coating onto SiC particles. In a second step, the Ni‐coated SiC particles were sintered by hot isostatic pressing. The temperature and pressure cycles were determined to ensure a good densification of the material. Such a densification process leads to the formation of a δ‐Ni2Si bilayer at the SiC/Ni interface; the inner δ‐Ni2Si layer in contact with SiC being more rich in carbon than the one in contact with the matrix. From X‐ray diffraction, wavelength‐dispersive X‐ray spectrometry and scanning electron microscopy characterizations, a mechanism is proposed to explain the microstructure of the end‐product.
Suppression of Lanthanide Clustering in Glass by Network Topological Constraints
Authors: Guo Qiangbing , Liu Xiaofeng , Zhou Shifeng
Published: August 2015

Here, we demonstrate the relationship between glass network topological structure and the chemical state of embedded lanthanide ions. It is revealed that a more dispersed state of lanthanide ions is shown in more constrained 3D rigid network, which delivers valuable information toward homogeneous doping in glasses from the perspective of glass topological structure. The results are believed to be of great significances in the development of advanced optoelectronic devices like high‐power laser, efficient fiber amplifier, smaller integrated photonic circuit, etc.
Transplantation of placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells enhances angiogenesis after ischemic limb injury in mice
Authors: Xie Nanzi , Li Zhihong , Adesanya Timothy M , Guo Weixin , Liu Yang , Fu Minghuan , Kilic Ahmet , Tan Tao , Zhu Hua , Xie Xiaoyun
Published: August 2015

Mesenchymal stem cell‐based therapy has emerged as a promising approach for the treatment of peripheral arterial disease. The purpose of this study was to examine the potential effects of human placenta‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (PMSCs) on mouse hindlimb ischemia. PMSCs were isolated from human placenta tissue and characterized by flow cytometry. An in vivo surgical ligation‐induced murine limb ischemia model was generated with fluorescent dye (CM‐DiI) labelled PMSCs delivered via intramuscular injection. Our data show that PMSCs treatment significantly enhanced microvessel density, improved blood perfusion and diminished pathologies in ischemic mouse hindlimbs as compared to those in the control group. Further immunostaining studies suggested that injected PMSCs can incorporate into the vasculature and differentiate into endothelial and smooth muscle cells to enhance angiogenesis in ischemic hind limbs. This may in part explain the beneficial effects of PMSCs treatment. Taken together, we found that PMSCs treatment might be an effective treatment modality for treatment of ischemia‐induced injury to mouse hind limbs by enhancement of angiogenesis.
Invasive surgery reduces infarct size and preserves cardiac function in a porcine model of myocardial infarction
Authors: van Hout Gerardus P.J. , Teuben Michel P.J. , Heeres Marjolein , de Maat Steven , de Jong Renate , Maas Coen , Kouwenberg Lisanne H.J.A. , Koenderman Leo , van Solinge Wouter W. , de Jager Saskia C.A. , Pasterkamp Gerard , Hoefer Imo E.
Published: August 2015

Reperfusion injury following myocardial infarction (MI) increases infarct size (IS) and deteriorates cardiac function. Cardioprotective strategies in large animal MI models often failed in clinical trials, suggesting translational failure. Experimentally, MI is induced artificially and the effect of the experimental procedures may influence outcome and thus clinical applicability. The aim of this study was to investigate if invasive surgery, as in the common open chest MI model affects IS and cardiac function. Twenty female landrace pigs were subjected to MI by transluminal balloon occlusion. In 10 of 20 pigs, balloon occlusion was preceded by invasive surgery (medial sternotomy). After 72 hrs, pigs were subjected to echocardiography and Evans blue/triphenyl tetrazoliumchloride double staining to determine IS and area at risk. Quantification of IS showed a significant IS reduction in the open chest group compared to the closed chest group (IS versus area at risk: 50.9 ± 5.4% versus 69.9 ± 3.4%, P = 0.007). End systolic LV volume and LV ejection fraction measured by echocardiography at follow‐up differed significantly between both groups (51 ± 5 ml versus 65 ± 3 ml, P = 0.033; 47.5 ± 2.6% versus 38.8 ± 1.2%, P = 0.005). The inflammatory response in the damaged myocardium did not differ between groups. This study indicates that invasive surgery reduces IS and preserves cardiac function in a porcine MI model. Future studies need to elucidate the effect of infarct induction technique on the efficacy of pharmacological therapies in large animal cardioprotection studies.
Use of a collagen matrix for recession coverage in patients who received orthodontic therapy: a case series
Authors: Tan Wah C. , Tan Wah L. , Ong Marianne M.A. , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: August 2015

Aim

The aim of the present study was to determine the percentage of recession coverage achieved following surgery with a collagen matrix, and patient‐reported outcome measures.

Methods

Five healthy adults who had completed orthodontic therapy with a gingival recession defect were recruited. Gingival recession coverage was performed using a two‐layer, xenogeneic collagen matrix (Mucograft). During the first 2 weeks, the patients charted their perceptions on bleeding, swelling, pain, and bruising using a visual analog scale (VAS). Post‐surgical complications were assessed clinically at 1 week, 2 weeks, and 1 month post‐surgery. Recession dimensions were examined at 1, 3, 6, and 12 months.

Results

At 1 year, an average of 67% root coverage was achieved. The amount of recession coverage achieved was stable from 3 months. The results were maintained at 1 year. There were no post‐surgical complications. All VAS parameters decreased to almost zero by day 14. From day 1, bleeding and pain decreased over time. However, there were peaks on days 2 and 3 for swelling and bruising, respectively, followed by a subsequent decrease.

Conclusions

The use of Mucograft for recession coverage is effective and safe, with low morbidity and no post‐surgical complications. Recession coverage achieved at 3 months remained stable in the 1‐year follow‐up period.
Maize orthologs of rice GS5 and their trans‐regulator are associated with kernel development
Authors: Liu Jie , Deng Min , Guo Huan , Raihan Sharif , Luo Jingyun , Xu Yuancheng , Dong Xiaofei , Yan Jianbing
Published: August 2015

Genome information from model species such as rice can assist in the cloning of genes in a complex genome, such as maize. Here, we identified a maize ortholog of rice GS5 that contributes to kernel development in maize. The genome‐wide association analysis of the expression levels of ZmGS5, and 15 of its 26 paralogs, identified a trans‐regulator on chromosome 7, which was a BAK1‐like gene. This gene that we named as ZmBAK1‐7 could regulate the expression of ZmGS5 and three of the paralogs. Candidate‐gene association analyses revealed that these five genes were associated with maize kernel development‐related traits. Linkage analyses also detected that ZmGS5 and ZmBAK1‐7 co‐localized with mapped QTLs. A transgenic analysis of ZmGS5 in Arabidopsis thaliana L. showed a significant increase in seed weight and cell number, suggesting that ZmGS5 may have a conserved function among different plant species that affects seed development.
Effects of β‐hydroxybutyricacid on the synthesis and assembly of very low‐density lipoprotein in bovine hepatocytes in vitro
Authors: Deng Q. , Ma D. , Shi Z. , Huang W. , Du X. , Gao W. , Zhu X. , Lei L. , Zhang M. , Sun G. , Yuan X. , Li X. , Wang Z. , Liu G. , Li X.
Published: August 2015

β‐Hydroxybutyricacid (BHBA) is an important metabolite that involved in the development of ketosis and fatty liver in dairy cows. Dairy cows with fatty liver displayed high blood concentration of BHBA and very low‐density lipoprotein (VLDL) assembly. The effects of BHBA on VLDL synthesis and assembly in hepatocytes of cows were unclear. In this study, bovine hepatocytes were cultured and treated with different concentrations of BHBA. We found that BHBA treatment upregulated the mRNA and protein levels of apolipoprotein B100 (ApoB 100), apolipoprotein E (ApoE) and microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTTP) and showed in a firstly increased and then decreased trend. Meanwhile, the mRNA and protein levels of LDLR showed in a reverse trend. Consequently, VLDL content was significantly increased in medium‐dose BHBA treatment group, while decreased in high‐dose group. These results indicate that the effects of BHBA on the VLDL synthesis showed in a dose‐dependent manner that low levels of BHBA increase VLDL synthesis and high levels of BHBA decrease VLDL synthesis.
Breeding Apples for Oranges: Africa's Misplaced Priority Over Plant Breeders’ Rights
Authors: Oguamanam Chidi
Published: August 2015

In 2000, African countries expressed reservation over the adoption of UPOV Act of 1991 as a model of plant breeders’ rights (PBRs) for TRIPS‐compliance. For the continent, an acceptable system of PBRs protection would include the protection of the rights of communities and associated indigenous knowledge, innovations, technologies and farming practices. One and half decades after, Africa has virtually reversed itself and embraced the UPOV‐PBRs system notwithstanding the latter's narrow focus on breeders and marginal reference to farmers. This Article critically explores the concerted sites of pressures, especially free trade and economic partnership agreements, and related policies through which Africa appears to have capitulated and upturned its policy position on PBRs. The continent's present priority over the implementation of PBRs through various regional and national legal initiatives currently at the instance of African Intellectual Property Organization (OAPI), the African Regional Intellectual Property Organization (ARIPO), the Southern African Economic Community (SADC) and specific country initiatives are explored. The article highlights the basis for the incongruity of Africa's newfound interest in the UPOV‐PBRs system—a regime not designed for the farmer‐centered tenor of African agriculture. It calls attention to the continued relevance of Africa's 2000 Model Law, especially as it applies to PBRs and recommends reality assessment as an important step toward the formulation of IPRs system suited for stakeholders in African agriculture for the continent's food security and food sovereignty.
Shock effects in plagioclase feldspar from the Mistastin Lake impact structure, Canada
Authors: Pickersgill Annemarie E. , Osinski Gordon R. , Flemming Roberta L.
Published: August 2015

Shock metamorphism, caused by hypervelocity impact, is a poorly understood process in feldspar due to the complexity of the crystal structure, the relative ease of weathering, and chemical variations, making optical studies of shocked feldspars challenging. Understanding shock metamorphism in feldspars, and plagioclase in particular, is vital for understanding the history of Earth's moon, Mars, and many other planetary bodies. We present here a comprehensive study of shock effects in andesine and labradorite from the Mistastin Lake impact structure, Labrador, Canada. Samples from a range of different settings were studied, from in situ central uplift materials to clasts from various breccias and impact melt rocks. Evidence of shock metamorphism includes undulose extinction, offset twins, kinked twins, alternate twin deformation, and partial to complete transformation to diaplectic plagioclase glass. In some cases, isotropization of alternating twin lamellae was observed. Planar deformation features (PDFs) are notably absent in the plagioclase, even when present in neighboring quartz grains. It is notable that various microlites, twin planes, and compositionally different lamellae could easily be mistaken for PDFs and so care must be taken. A pseudomorphous zeolite phase (levyne‐Ca) was identified as a replacement mineral of diaplectic feldspar glass in some samples, which could, in some instances, also be potentially mistaken for PDFs. We suggest that the lack of PDFs in plagioclase could be due to a combination of structural controls relating to the crystal structure of different feldspars and/or the presence of existing planes of weakness in the form of twin and cleavage planes.
Collaboration is key: The actual experience of disciplines working together in child care
Authors: Garvis Susanne , Kirkby Jane , McMahon Keryn , Meyer Colleen
Published: August 2015

Promoting young children's academic and developmental outcomes can no longer be achieved by the single efforts of one profession, but requires professionals to work together in inter‐professional teams to understand the complexity of young children's lives. Collaboration in early childhood programs involves health professionals, educators, and other professionals sharing information, validating each other's roles, and providing input around which strategies promote positive outcomes for all children. There are, however, limited studies available within early childhood education on inter‐disciplinary relationships between nurses and teachers. This paper helps to fill this void by exploring the relationship of an early childhood teacher and maternal and child health nurse working alongside one another in an Australian kindergarten. Through a narrative approach, a number of characteristics of the relationship were identified as key elements to a productive relationship. Findings are important for health professionals working with early childhood educators. By understanding the complexity within and between disciplines, professionals can work effectively to support young children and their families.
Reproductive mode and the shifting arenas of evolutionary conflict
Authors: Furness Andrew I. , Morrison Keenan R. , Orr Teri J. , Arendt Jeff D. , Reznick David N.
Published: August 2015

In sexually reproducing organisms, the genetic interests of individuals are not perfectly aligned. Conflicts among family members are prevalent since interactions involve the transfer of limited resources between interdependent players. Intrafamilial conflict has traditionally been considered along three major axes: between the sexes, between parents and offspring, and between siblings. In these interactions, conflict is expected over traits in which the resulting phenotypic value is determined by multiple family members who have only partially overlapping fitness optima. We focus on four major categories of animal reproductive mode (broadcast spawning, egg laying, live bearing, and live bearing with matrotrophy) and identify the shared phenotypes or traits over which conflict is expected, and then review the empirical literature for evidence of their occurrence. Major transitions among reproductive mode, such as a shift from external to internal fertilization, an increase in egg‐retention time, modifications of embryos and mothers for nutrient transfer, the evolution of postnatal parental care, and increased interaction with the kin network, mark key shifts that both change and expand the arenas in which conflict is played out.
Could land‐based early photosynthesizing ecosystems have bioengineered the planet in mid‐Palaeozoic times?
Authors: Edwards Dianne , Cherns Lesley , Raven John A.
Published: August 2015

The Ordovician and Silurian periods were times of major geological activity as regards palaeogeography, volcanism and climate change, the last of these evidenced by a series of cooling episodes and glaciations that climaxed in the Hirnantian (Late Ordovician). The presence of cryptospores in the Darriwilian (Middle Ordovician) marked the advent of higher plants on land. A critical survey of direct (mega‐ and microfossils) and some indirect evidence in succeeding rocks indicates the presence of algae, Bacteria, Cyanobacteria, Fungi, probable lichens, cryptophytes and basal tracheophytes. Similar associations of photosynthesizers and decomposers occur today in cryptogamic covers (CCs), for example biological crusts, except that bryophytes replace cryptophytes (basal embryophytes) and tracheophytes are absent. Thus, extant CCs, which make significant contributions today to global carbon and nitrogen fixation and prevention of erosion, provide an excellent analogue for the impacts of early land vegetation on both lithosphere and atmosphere. As a prerequisite to assessing impacts in Ordovician–Silurian times, with particular consideration of parameters used by climate modellers, the effects of a number of abiotic factors on the growth and survival of extant cryptogamic ground covers and their environmental impacts are reviewed. Factors include photosynthetically active radiation, ultraviolet radiation, temperature, water, oxygen, carbon dioxide, nitrogen, phosphorus, iron, surface roughness and albedo. A survey of the nature and extent of weathering facilitated by such vegetation concludes that it was limited based on depth of weathering when compared with that from rooted tracheophytes today, with minor effects on carbon dioxide drawdown. As global net productivity from Ordovician–Silurian CCs was very probably lower than today, and while the small fraction of intractable material in their organic carbon would have resulted in a more rapid turnover of terrestrial biomass, we conclude that there was decreased possibility of long‐term organic carbon burial. Hence, there would have been very limited increase in atmospheric oxygen and decrease in carbon dioxide resulting from carbon burial.
Training for prescribing in‐office and home phototherapy
Authors: Anderson Kathryn L. , Huang Karen E. , Huang William W. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: August 2015

Background/Purpose

One reason phototherapy use is lacking in the United States may be inadequate phototherapy education during dermatology training. The purpose of this study was to estimate the level of dermatology resident training with prescribing phototherapy and to see whether inadequate education may be contributing to the underuse of phototherapy in the United States.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed to assess resident education and comfort with prescribing phototherapy from the resident perspective. Botulinum toxin and radiation therapy training were used as positive and negative controls, respectively. Responses were tabulated and comparisons made using Fisher's exact test and Cochran–Armitage trend test.

Results

A total of 88 residents responded. 42% and 81% of respondents reported not receiving didactic education on prescribing in‐office and home phototherapy, respectively, compared to 13% for botulinum toxin and 91% for radiation therapy. 29% and 76% reported not being comfortable prescribing in‐office and home phototherapy, respectively, compared to 36% for botulinum toxin and 91% for radiation therapy. Phototherapy education satisfaction was positively correlated with comfort of prescribing, and comfort prescribing was positively correlated with actual prescribing of phototherapy.

Conclusions

Training for prescribing phototherapy is lacking. Augmenting phototherapy training may help make home phototherapy more accessible for patients.
Batf3 deficiency proves the pivotal role of CD8α+ dendritic cells in protection induced by vaccination with attenuated Plasmodium sporozoites
Authors: Montagna G. N. , Biswas A. , Hildner K. , Matuschewski K. , Dunay I. R.
Published: August 2015

Increasing evidence indicates that hepatic CD8α+ dendritic cells (DCs) are important antigen cross‐presenting cells (APC) involved in the priming of protective CD8+ T‐cell responses induced by live‐attenuated Plasmodium sporozoites. Experimental proof for a critical role of CD8α+ DCs in protective pre‐erythrocytic malaria immunizations has pivotal implications for vaccine development, including improved vectored subunit vaccines. Employing Batf3−/− mice, which lack functional CD8α+ DCs, we demonstrate that deficiency of these particular APCs completely abolishes protection and corresponding signatures of vaccine‐induced immunity. We show that in wild‐type, but not in Batf3−/−, mice CD8α+ DCs accumulate in the liver after immunization with live irradiation‐attenuated P. berghei sporozoites. IFN‐γ production by Plasmodium antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells is dependent on functional Batf3. In addition, our results demonstrate that the dysfunctional cDC‐CD8+ T‐cell axis correlates with MHC class II upregulation on splenic CD8α− DCs. Collectively, these findings underscore the essential role of CD8α+ DCs in robust protection induced by experimental live‐attenuated malaria vaccines.
Effects of extreme weather events and legume presence on mycorrhization of Plantago lanceolata and Holcus lanatus in the field
Authors: Walter J. , Kreyling J. , Singh B. K. , Jentsch A.
Published: August 2015

Little is known about direct and indirect effects of extreme weather events on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) under field conditions. In a field experiment, we investigated the response of mycorrhization to drought and heavy rain in grassland communities. We quantified AMF biomass in soil, mycorrhization of roots of the grass Holcus lanatus and the forb Plantago lanceolata, as well as plant performance. Plants were grown in four‐species communities with or without a legume. We hypothesised that drought increases and heavy rain decreases mycorrhization, and that higher mycorrhization will be linked to improved stress resistance and higher biomass production. Soil AMF biomass increased under both weather extremes. Heavy rain generally benefitted plants and increased arbuscules in P. lanceolata. Drought neither reduced plant performance nor root mycorrhization. Arbuscules increased in H. lanatus several weeks after drought, and in P. lanceolata several weeks after heavy rain spells. These long‐lasting effects of weather events on mycorrhization highlight the indirect influence of climate on AMF via their host plant. Legume presence increased plant community biomass, but had only minor effects on mycorrhization. Arbuscule colonisation was negatively correlated with senescence during the dry summer. Mycorrhization and biomass production in P. lanceolata were positively related. However, increased mycorrhization was related to less biomass in the grass. AMF mycelium in soil might generally increase under extreme events, root colonisation, however, is host species specific. This might amplify community shifts in grassland under climate change by further increasing stress resistance of species that already benefit from changed precipitation.
Virus‐induced gene silencing in Catharanthus roseus by biolistic inoculation of tobacco rattle virus vectors
Authors: Carqueijeiro I. , Masini E. , Foureau E. , Sepúlveda L. J. , Marais E. , Lanoue A. , Besseau S. , Papon N. , Clastre M. , Dugé de Bernonville T. , Glévarec G. , Atehortùa L. , Oudin A. , Courdavault V.
Published: August 2015

Catharanthus roseus constitutes the unique source of several valuable monoterpenoid indole alkaloids, including the antineoplastics vinblastine and vincristine. These alkaloids result from a complex biosynthetic pathway encompassing between 30 and 50 enzymatic steps whose characterisation is still underway. The most recent identifications of genes from this pathway relied on a tobacco rattle virus‐based virus‐induced gene silencing (VIGS) approach, involving an Agrobacterium‐mediated inoculation of plasmids encoding the two genomic components of the virus. As an alternative, we developed a biolistic‐mediated approach of inoculation of virus‐encoding plasmids that can be easily performed by a simple bombardment of young C. roseus plants. After optimisation of the transformation conditions, we showed that this approach efficiently silenced the phytoene desaturase gene, leading to strong and reproducible photobleaching of leaves. This biolistic transformation was also used to silence a previously characterised gene from the alkaloid biosynthetic pathway, encoding iridoid oxidase. Plant bombardment caused down‐regulation of the targeted gene (70%), accompanied by a correlated decreased in MIA biosynthesis (45–90%), similar to results obtained via agro‐transformation. Thus, the biolistic‐based VIGS approach developed for C. roseus appears suitable for gene function elucidation and can readily be used instead of the Agrobacterium‐based approach, e.g. when difficulties arise with agro‐inoculations or when Agrobacterium‐free procedures are required to avoid plant defence responses.
Presidential Address 2014: The more‐or‐less interrupting effects of the startle response
Authors: Blumenthal Terry D.
Published: August 2015

The startle response can be used to assess differences in a variety of ongoing processes across species, sensory modalities, ages, clinical conditions, and task conditions. Startle serves defensive functions, but it may also interrupt ongoing processes, allowing for a reorientation of resources to potential danger. A wealth of research suggests that prepulse inhibition of startle (PPI) is an indicator of the protection of the processing of the prepulse from interruption by the startle response. However, protection against interruption by suppressing the startle response may extend to many other ongoing processes, including the higher processing of the startle stimulus itself. Proof of protection would require measuring ongoing processing, which has very rarely been reported. The idea that PPI represents the protection of the earliest stages of prepulse processing can be challenged, since those earliest stages are completed by the time the startle response occurs, so they are not threatened by interruption and need not be protected. The conception of low PPI as indicative of a “gating deficit” in schizophrenia should be made with caution, since low PPI is seen in some, but not all studies of schizophrenia, but also in a range of other disorders and conditions. Finally, startle is often used to probe ongoing processes, but the response also modifies those processes, interrupting some processes but perhaps facilitating others. A deeper understanding of the function of startle and PPI might improve the precision of application of these measures in the investigation of a range of research topics.
Case studies of the history and politics of wild canid restoration in Korea
Authors: Jo Yeong‐Seok , Baccus John T.
Published: August 2015

Wild canids were historically abundant in Korea; however, the gray wolf, dhole, and red fox were extirpated during the twentieth century. The causes varied. “Pest control” during the Japanese occupation, ecological destruction during wars, disease epizootics, and “vermin control” after the Korean War contributed to the complete demise of wolves. The fox had succumbed to unregulated hunting, rodenticides, habitat loss, and disease epizootics. The dhole was naturally rare; its extirpation from northeastern Asia including Korea is not established. Although the wolf and fox are extirpated, the Korean government still lists both as endangered species to facilitate the recently implemented restoration programs. Restoration will face the challenges of importing genetically diverse populations and the critical loss, fragmentation, and alteration of peri‐urban habitats. The overall social support for these efforts is not clear: it may be low because of changes in social mores or simply an unintended consequence of land and water use choices and policies that people may not perceive in everyday life. In this critical analysis, we postulate that the current restoration programs are misdirected toward inappropriate species and likely employ outdated techniques. We propose that a reallocation of restoration efforts and resources to populations of existing rare or threatened species would be more ecologically beneficial with higher probabilities of success. We recognize that there can be good reason to restore the upper trophic levels, especially keystone species, but are concerned that the impetus is more about focusing on charismatic megafauna rather than pragmatic choices more likely to be effective.