bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ten‐year mortality trends among persons diagnosed with HIV infection in England and Wales in the era of antiretroviral therapy: AIDS remains a silent killer
Authors: Simmons RD , Ciancio BC , Kall MM , Rice BD , Delpech VC
Published: May 2013

Objectives

We present national trends in death rates and the proportion of deaths attributable to AIDS in the era of effective antiretroviral therapy (ART), and examine risk factors associated with an AIDS‐related death.

Methods

Analyses of the national HIV‐infected cohort for England and Wales linked to death records from the Office of National Statistics were performed. Annual all‐cause mortality rates were calculated by age group and sex for the years 1999–2008 and rates for 2008 were compared with death rates in the general population. Risk factors associated with an AIDS‐related death were investigated using a case–control study design.

Results

The all‐cause mortality rate among persons diagnosed with HIV infection aged 15–59 years fell over the decade: from 217 per 10 000 in 1999 to 82 per 10 000 in 2008, with declines in all age groups and exposure categories except women aged 50–59 years and persons who inject drugs (rate fluctuations in both of these groups were probably a result of small numbers). Compared with the general population (15 per 10 000 in 2008), death rates among persons diagnosed with HIV infection remained high, especially in younger persons (aged 15–29 years) and persons who inject drugs (13 and 20 times higher, respectively). AIDS‐related deaths accounted for 43% of all deaths over the decade (24% in 2008). Late diagnosis (CD4 count < 350 cells/μL) was the most important predictor of dying of AIDS [odds ratio (OR) 10.55; 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.22–13.54]. Sixty per cent of all‐cause mortality and 81% of all AIDS‐related deaths were attributable to late diagnosis.

Conclusions

Despite substantial declines, death rates among persons diagnosed with HIV infection continue to exceed those of the general population in the ART era. Earlier diagnosis could have prevented 1600 AIDS‐related deaths over the decade. These findings highlight the need to intensify efforts to offer and recommend an HIV test in a wider range of clinical and community settings.
Community variability in aphid parasitoids versus predators in response to agricultural intensification
Authors: Gagic Vesna , Hänke Sebastian , Thies Carsten , Tscharntke Teja
Published: May 2013

Agricultural intensification (AI) is a great threat to biodiversity and its negative effects on species richness of different communities have been repeatedly shown. The effects of AI on community composition and variability, however, are important for assessing the predictability of community responses, but have rarely been studied simultaneously and across different taxonomic groups.

In this study, we focused on parasitoids (primary and secondary) and predators (hoverflies and carabid beetles) of aphids in winter wheat fields with contrasting AI regimes (low AI, i.e. organic fields in structurally complex landscapes vs. high AI, i.e. conventional fields in structurally simple landscapes).

We found divergence in species composition of more specialised, low‐dispersing primary and secondary parasitoids within high AI fields, probably due to the disruption of the exchanges of species between local populations in structurally simple landscapes. In contrast, species composition of less specialised, highly dispersing carabid beetles and hoverflies converged in fields with high AI, where they were characterised by the dominance of a single, vagile species adapted to high land‐use conditions. Furthermore, temporal community shifts were only pronounced in primary parasitoids and hoverflies, with higher temporal changes in fields with high AI in primary parasitoids.

Collectively, our results illustrate that environmental homogenisation due to AI does not necessarily induce spatio‐temporal homogenisation of communities, but rather can have contrasting effects on more specialised, low‐dispersive parasitoids versus more generalised, high‐dispersive predators, thereby demonstrating great differences in the predictability of responses to AI among aphid natural enemies.
Altitudinal diversity patterns of ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) in the forests of Changbai Mountain, Northeast China
Authors: Zou Yi , Sang Weiguo , Zhou Haicheng , Huang Liya , Axmacher Jan Christoph
Published: May 2013

Little is currently known about the biodiversity harboured by China's last remaining pristine temperate forests. Especially, studies into the diversity patterns of highly diverse insect taxa are very rare, while such studies are highly valuable, for example, as baseline to evaluate the effectiveness of China's ongoing large‐scale reforestation efforts in restoring forest biodiversity.

We sampled ground beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) on 33 plots distributed across five distinct mature forest ecosystems occurring at altitudes between 700 and 2000 m on Changbai Mountain to address these prevailing knowledge gaps. Pitfall trapping yielded a total of 4834 ground beetles representing 47 species.

Carabid abundance increased while α‐diversity decreased with increasing elevation. No significant correlation was observed between the abundance of common species and their elevational distribution. Beetle assemblages originating from the high‐elevation forest types formed a partly overlapping cluster, while beetle assemblages at lower elevations were more strongly differentiated according to forest type. Our results support the assumption that carabids are highly sensitive to climate change.

The Korean pine‐dominated forest, which has not previously been distinguished as a discrete forest type, showed a distinct carabid beetle composition, indicating its requirement of specific conservation attention. The carabid diversity in high‐elevation birch forest and low‐elevation mixed broad‐leaved and conifer forests is particularly threatened by climate change, and long‐term future monitoring of ground beetle diversity on Changbai Mountain is expected to provide extremely valuable insights into climate change‐effects on insect communities in China's pristine temperate forests.
A Comparative Study of Densification of Sol‐Gel‐Derived Nano‐Mullite due to the Influence of Iron, Nickel and Copper Ions
Authors: Roy Debasis , Bagchi Biswajoy , Bhattacharya Alakananda , Das Sukhen , Nandy Papiya
Published: May 2013

By sol‐gel process, mullite samples doped with 0.002M, 0.02M, 0.1M, 0.15M, and 0.2Mof iron, nickel, and copper are prepared. Prepared gels were then dried, grinded, pressed into pellets, and sintered at temperatures 1000°C and 1300°C for 4 h. Mullite densification behavior was analyzed. Our intention is to study the role of metal ions in influencing mullitization behavior in the case of the sol‐gel reaction process, to provide useful information of mullite. This study deals with the effect of metal ions on mullite formation, microstructure, and densification behavior in single‐phase sol‐gel‐derived mullite.
Degradation and Mechanical Properties of Zirconia 3‐Unit Fixed Dental Prostheses Machined on a CAD/CAM System
Authors: Elias Carlos Nelson , Melo Andréa Matos , dos Santos Heraldo Elias Salomão , dos Santos Claudinei
Published: May 2013

The manufacturing of ceramics fixed dental prostheses (FDPs) is not the same as that of standardized samples and, therefore, the surface finishing are not necessarily the same in both cases. Standardized samples and FDPs were sintered, polished, hydrothermally aged in saliva, and submitted to mechanical tests. The results showed a difference in bending strength between machined (911.19 MPa) and polished FDPs (573.84 MPa). ANOVA statistical analysis did not show a difference in flexural strength between nondegraded (911.19 MPa) and degraded (871.94 MPa) FDPs. No differences were found in the bending strength and toughness of standardized samples and FDPs.
Characterisation of protein‐rich isolates and antioxidative phenolic extracts from pale and black brewers' spent grain
Authors: Connolly Alan , Piggott Charles O. , FitzGerald Richard J.
Published: May 2013

Protein‐enriched isolates and co‐product fractions were obtained from sheared, pale and black brewers' spent grain (BSG) using sequential aqueous and alkaline (110 mm NaOH) extraction, followed by isoelectric precipitation at pH 3.8. A recovery of 59% of the original pale BSG protein and 15% of the black BSG protein was obtained for the final isolates. Gel permeation HPLC (GP‐HPLC) revealed that 59% of the extracted pale BSG protein and only 6% of black BSG protein had a molecular mass >10 kDa. Glutamine/glutamate and proline were the most abundant amino acids present in both isolates. Analysis of four co‐product fractions obtained during fractionation from both pale and black BSG revealed the presence of phenolics, with higher concentrations in the black BSG extracts. These fractions possessed antioxidant and free radical scavenging activity when tested using the ferric reducing ability of plasma (0.16 ± 0.01 to 4.33 ± 0.11 mg Trolox equivalents g−1 BSG dry weight) and diphenylpicrylhydrazyl (12.85 ± 1.16% to 59.50 ± 3.47% DPPH۠sc) assays, respectively. The protein‐enriched isolates and the phenolic‐rich extracts may find use as value‐added ingredients for incorporation into conventional and functional foods.
Changes in amino acid contents, texture and microstructure of bamboo shoots during pickling process
Authors: Zheng Jiong , Zhang Fusheng , Zhou Chunhong , Chen Guangjing , Lin Mao , Kan Jianquan
Published: May 2013

The amino acid contents, texture, pectin and microstructure of bamboo shoots (Dendrocalamus latiflorus) with different salt concentrations during pickling process were examined to evaluate the effects of such process on its nutrient contents and texture. The results show that the total amino acid content of fresh bamboo shoots (FBS) was 16.35 g/100 g of dry weight, whereas those of pickled bamboo shoots (PBS) with different salt concentrations (8% and 20%) were 6.89 g/100 g and 7.91 g/100 g of dry weight, respectively. The texture analysis revealed that the hardness of the two PBS decreased by 60% and 47% after 90 days of pickling process, respectively. The protopectin contents of such PBS decreased by 64% and 49%, respectively, whereas their content of water‐soluble pectin exhibited an increasing tendency during the pickling process. In addition, the scanning electron microscope images of the bamboo shoots revealed that the FBS tissues presented almost isodiametric parenchyma cells with a regular shape, whereas the parenchyma cells of PBS showed a clear turgor loss, presenting degradation and shrinkage in the cell wall contours.
Inhibition of biofilms by glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase and guaiacol: the active antibacterial component in an enzyme alginogel
Authors: Cooper Rose A
Published: May 2013

The association of biofilms with wound chronicity has prompted a search for antimicrobial interventions that are effective against biofilms. A patented preparation of glucose oxidase, lactoperoxidase and guaiacol (GLG), which is the antibacterial component of Flaminal®, has been shown to inhibit a wide range of bacteria, but it has not yet been tested on biofilms. This study aims to determine the effect of GLG on biofilms of Staphylococcus aureus, methicillin‐resistant S. aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Static biofilms were grown in microtitre plates and on coverslips and treated with a range of concentrations of GLG. Effects were monitored by estimating biofilm biomass by staining with crystal violet, biofilm activity by staining with either resazurin or fluorescein diacetate and biofilm viability by staining with LIVE/DEAD® BacLight™ Bacterial Viability Kit. GLG was able to prevent the formation of biofilms at concentration ≤0·5% (w/v) and higher concentrations were required to inhibit established biofilms. GLG did not disrupt biofilm biomass. Staphylococci were more susceptible to GLG than P. aeruginosa. These in vitro findings must be verified by in vivo studies.
Cilostazol prevents foot ulcers in diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease
Authors: de Franciscis Stefano , Gallelli Luca , Battaglia Luigi , Molinari Vincenzo , Montemurro Rossella , Stillitano Domenico M. , Buffone Gianluca , Serra Raffaele
Published: May 2013

Diabetic patients are at high risk of foot ulcerations that may lead to limb amputations with important socio‐economic impact. Peripheral vascular disease may be frequently associated in diabetes mellitus type II with its main symptom, intermittent claudication. Many studies reported the known efficacy of cilostazol in treating vascular claudication. Metalloproteinase‐9 (MMP‐9) seems to be a biochemical marker implicated in chronic wounds and in particular in diabetic foot ulcers. Cilostazol appears to have a lowering effect on MMP‐9 levels and this may suggest a beneficial effect in order to prevent or retard the onset of foot ulcer in diabetic patients. In our study, two groups of diabetic patients with peripheral vascular disease were divided into two groups according to the presence of claudication in order to receive cilostazol. Group A (31 patients without claudication) were not eligible to receive cilostazol whereas Group B (47 patients with claudication) received cilostazol administration for 24 weeks (100 mg orally twice daily). Median follow up was of 16 months. During the follow up, 4·25% of patients of Group B and 35·48% of patients of Group A (P < 0·01) showed onset of foot ulceration. Although further randomised and controlled studies are required cilostazol seems to show beneficial effects for primary prevention of diabetic foot ulcers.
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder in cocaine‐dependent adults: A psychiatric comorbidity analysis
Authors: Daigre Constanza , Roncero Carlos , Grau‐López Lara , Martínez‐Luna Nieves , Prat Gemma , Valero Sergi , Tejedor Rosa , Ramos‐Quiroga Josep A. , Casas Miguel
Published: May 2013

Background and Objectives

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is highly prevalent among drug abusers. We studied the psychiatric comorbidity and characteristics of cocaine use in relation to the presence of ADHD among patients with cocaine dependence.

Methods

A total of 200 cocaine‐dependent patients attending an Outpatient Drug Clinic participated in the study. A systematic evaluation of ADHD (CAADID‐II), the severity of addiction (EuropASI) and other axes I and II psychiatric disorders was made (SCID‐I and SCID‐II). A descriptive, bivariate, and multivariate analysis of the data was performed.

Results

In the multivariate analysis, the identified risk factors for the development of ADHD were a history of behavioral disorder in childhood (OR: 3.04), a lifetime history of cannabis dependence in the course of life (OR: 2.68), and age at the start of treatment (OR: 1.08). The bivariate analysis showed ADHD to be associated with other factors such as male gender, age at start of cocaine use and dependence, the amount of cocaine consumed weekly, increased occupational alteration, alcohol consumption, general psychological discomfort, depressive disorder, and antisocial personality disorder.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

We conclude that ADHD is associated with increased psychiatric comorbidity and greater severity of addiction. (Am J Addict 2013;22:466–473)
Empowered as King, Priest and Prophet: The Identity of Roman Catholic Laity in the People of God
Authors: Wendlinder Anastasia
Published: May 2013

The language of “People of God,” which exemplifies the radical shift in ecclesiology found in the documents of the Second Vatican Council, not only has gained a predominance of use in contemporary Roman Catholic theology, it provides a vocabulary with which to explore the identity of the Roman Catholic laity, particularly as they relate to the scripturally-grounded titles of “King,” “Priest,” and “Prophet.” This article considers the implications of this identity in contrast to the Institutional ecclesiology with which it competes in the conciliar documents as well as in many official statements since Vatican II. Viewing these titles from their roots in Hebrew and Christian Scripture opens new avenues of empowerment for the laity and for transforming the whole Church.
Understanding disagreement within the majority about action to atone for past wrongs
Authors: Hartley Lisa Kathryn , McGarty Craig , Donaghue Ngaire
Published: May 2013

Policies atoning for past wrongs against minority groups are often contested within the majority. During the year after the apology to the Indigenous Australian Stolen Generations, predictors of non‐Indigenous (majority) collective action intentions focusing on support or opposition to reform reconciliation policies (Study 1, N = 206) and compensation to the Stolen Generations (Study 2, N = 215; Study 3, N = 298) were examined. Action was analyzed as a function of national identity, opinion‐based group identity, group‐based guilt, political orientation, and collective efficacy. Opinion‐based group identification was an independent predictor of action for all groups except for anti‐compensation, where efficacy strongly predicted action. Findings highlight opinion‐based groups' role in capturing the fault lines of disagreement within majority groups.
Application of the MODE model to implicit weight prejudice and its influence on expressed and actual behavior among college students
Authors: Penney Erika , Lawsin Catalina
Published: May 2013

Weight prejudice and discrimination were examined in students, using the motivation and opportunity as determinants (MODE) model. The personalized Implicit Association Test (pIAT) and Motivation to Control Prejudiced Reactions (MCPR) scale were used to predict subsequent expressed and actual behavior, measured by an election task and a lost e‐mail task. Thematic analysis of qualitative responses was conducted to determine reasons participants discriminated against obesity. The MODE model did not predict the prejudice–behavior relationship; however, expressed weight prejudice and discrimination were highly prevalent. Of the participants, 21.2% explicitly stated that candidates' weight influenced their voting behavior. The MODE model was concluded to be an inappropriate model for weight prejudice. Implications for future research are discussed.
Which name unlocks the door? The effect of tenant race/ethnicity on landlord response
Authors: Feldman Michelle E. , Weseley Allyson J.
Published: May 2013

Two Internet experiments investigated how the race/ethnicity and gender of prospective tenants impacted landlord response. Among males, Asian American tenants fared best, receiving 45.2% positive responses. Hispanic and White tenants received a similar number of positive responses (34.7% and 34.0%, respectively), while the African American tenant received the fewest (16.0%). In general, female prospective tenants received more positive responses than did male prospective tenants (40.8% vs. 27.1%); among females, White and Asian American women received more positive responses (67.3% and 60.8%, respectively) than did Hispanic (43.1%) and African American (41.2%) women. The experiments indicated that prospective tenants were more likely to receive positive responses when their race matched that of the neighborhood in which the apartment is located.
The association between media exposure of interracial relationships and attitudes toward interracial relationships
Authors: Lienemann Brianna A. , Stopp Heather T.
Published: May 2013

From an extended contact hypothesis (ECH) framework, mass‐media portrayals of interracial relationships may encourage positive attitudes toward such relationships. Caucasian participants (N = 218) indicated examples of media portrayals of Black–White interracial relationships, attitudes toward Blacks, attitudes toward interracial relationships, degree of identification with Whites, and the degree to which Blacks are included in self‐representations. Supporting our hypotheses, extended contact with Black–White relationships via media portrayals was associated with more positive attitudes toward Blacks and interracial relationships. These relationships were mediated by the degree to which Blacks are included in self‐representations. This study furthers understanding of ECH by including representations of dyadic relationships and suggests an avenue for the creation of interventions for improving attitudes toward interracial relationships.
National identification, perceived threat, and dehumanization as antecedents of negative attitudes toward immigrants in Australia and Canada
Authors: Louis Winnifred R. , Esses Victoria M. , Lalonde Richard N.
Published: May 2013

The interplay of nationalistic threat perceptions, dehumanizing beliefs and intergroup emotions, and anti‐immigrant sentiment is analyzed in a cross‐national context with Australian (N = 124) and Canadian (N = 126) samples. National identification was linked to negative attitudes toward immigrants indirectly, via perceptions of immigrants as being in threatening zero‐sum relationships with citizens. In turn, perceived zero‐sum threat was associated with dehumanizing beliefs and emotions about immigrants. Significant baseline differences in hostility were observed across the samples, but the relationships among the variables were not moderated by participants' nationality. The study contributes to the literature examining how negative emotions and attitudes may serve to legitimize intergroup competition.
How deep is skin‐deep? The relationship between skin color satisfaction, estimation of body image, and self‐esteem among women of African descent
Authors: Mucherah Winnie , Frazier Andrea Dawn
Published: May 2013

The study of skin color and its relationship to body (dis)satisfaction and self‐esteem is critical to expanding upon the research that explores the intersection between body image and the sociocultural experience of women of the African diaspora. To this end, the relationships between skin color satisfaction, body dissatisfaction, and self‐esteem were examined in a sample of 328 women of African descent. Results revealed a significant effect for ethnicity and employment status on body dissatisfaction, skin color satisfaction, and self‐esteem. Follow‐up analyses revealed that Afro‐Caribbean women were the most satisfied with their body shape, biracial women were most satisfied with their skin color, and women who self‐identified as professionals had the highest self‐esteem. Implications for the findings are discussed.
Diabetes mellitus, but not small dense low‐density lipoprotein, is predictive of cardiovascular disease: A Korean community‐based prospective cohort study
Authors: Suh Sunghwan , Park Hyung‐Doo , Jin Sang‐Man , Kim Hye Jeong , Bae Ji Cheol , Park So Young , Park Mi Kyoung , Kim Duk Kyu , Cho Nam H , Lee Moon‐Kyu
Published: May 2013

Aims/Introduction

Small dense low‐density lipoprotein (sdLDL) has been suggested to be a potential risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Materials and Methods

We carried out a prospective nested case–control study in the Korean Health and Genome Study. Participants were men and women aged 40–69 years who developed CVD (n = 313), and were matched by age and sex to controls who remained free of CVD (n = 313) during the 8‐years follow‐up period (from 2001 to 2009). LDL subfractions were analyzed in frozen samples collected from the 626 participants using polyacrylamide tube gel electrophoresis.

Results

Patients with CVD had a significantly higher glycated hemoglobin level compared with the controls (5.72 vs 5.56). The proportion of patients with diabetes mellitus (DM) was higher in those who developed CVD during follow up (8.0% vs 1.9%). The frequency of CVD according to each tertile of LDL particle size and the number of metabolic syndrome components did not differ significantly. In the multivariate analysis, DM (odds ratio 4.244, 95% confidence interval 1.693–10.640, P = 0.002) was the only independent predictive factor of CVD. LDL particle size was not associated with the risk for future CVD.

Conclusions

Small dense LDL might not be a significant predictor of CVD in this Korean community‐based prospective cohort study.
Glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion: A newer perspective
Authors: Komatsu Mitsuhisa , Takei Masahiro , Ishii Hiroaki , Sato Yoshihiko
Published: May 2013

Existing concepts and models for glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) are overviewed and a newer perspective has been formulated toward the physiological understanding of GSIS. A conventional model has been created on the basis of in vitro data on application of a square wave high glucose in the absence of any other stimulatory inputs. Glucose elicits rapid insulin release through an adenosine triphosphate‐sensitive K+ channel (KATP channel)‐dependent mechanism, which is gradually augmented in a KATP channel‐independent manner. Biphasic GSIS thus occurs. In the body, the β‐cells are constantly exposed to stimulatory signals, such as glucagon‐like peptide 1 (GLP‐1), parasympathetic inputs, free fatty acid (FFA), amino acids and slightly suprathreshold levels of glucose, even at fasting. GLP‐1 increases cellular cyclic adenosine monophosphate, parasympathetic stimulation activates protein kinase C, and FFA, amino acids and glucose generate metabolic amplification factors. Plasma glucose concentration gradually rises postprandially under such tonic stimulation. We hypothesize that these stimulatory inputs together make the β‐cells responsive to glucose independently from its action on KATP channels. Robust GSIS in patients with a loss of function mutation of the sulfonylurea receptor, a subunit of KATP channels, is compatible with this hypothesis. Furthermore, pre‐exposure of the islets to an activator of protein kinase A and/or C makes β‐cells responsive to glucose in a KATP channel‐ and Ca2+‐independent manner. We hypothesize that GSIS occurs in islet β‐cells without glucose regulation of KATP channels in vivo, for which priming with cyclic adenosine monophosphate, protein kinase C and non‐glucose nutrients are required. To understand the physiology of GSIS, comprehensive integration of accumulated knowledge is required.
Influence of Adhesive Application Methods and Rebonding Agent Application on Sealing Effectiveness of All‐in‐One Self‐Etching Adhesives
Authors: Demirci Mustafa , Tuncer Safa , Tekçe Neslihan , Erdilek Dina , Uysal Ömer
Published: May 2013

Statement of Problem

The choice of adhesive application methods could affect the microleakage of self‐etch adhesives.

Purpose

To evaluate the effect of acid‐etching, doubling adhesive application time, doubling adhesive coating, and rebonding agent application on microleakage of self‐etch adhesives in Class V cavities.

Materials and Methods

Seventy human third molars with Class V cavities assigned to five groups according to different adhesive application protocols for the three dentin adhesives (Clearfil S3 Bond, Kuraray Medical, Okayama, Japan; Optibond All‐in‐One, Kerr Corporation Orange, CA, USA; G‐Aenial Bond, GC Corporation, Tokyo, Japan): group 1, manufacturer's recommendations; group 2, prior acid‐etching of cavities; group 3, double application time; group 4, two consecutive coats of the adhesives; group 5, rebonding application on restoration margins. After bonding, the cavities were filled with a resin composite (Filtek Supreme XT, 3M ESPE Dental Products, St. Paul, MN, USA). The teeth were thermocycled, and the specimens were examined for microleakage using methylene blue as a marker.

Results

For Clearfil S3 Bond and Optibond All‐in‐One, microleakage in groups 2 and 5 were significantly lower than other groups' enamel margins. In groups 1, 2, 4, and 5, Clearfil S3 Bond exhibited significantly more leakage than the other dentin bonding agents in dentin margins. Microleakage was significantly higher on dentinal margins compared with the enamel margins for Clearfil S3 Bond in all of the groups. Optibond All‐in‐One showed significantly lower microleakage in dentin margins in all groups except groups 2 and 5.

Conclusion

Acid‐etching usually promoted the reduction of microleakage in enamel margins. On the other hand, rebonding application usually contributed to the reduction of microleakage more than other methods in enamel and dentin margins.

Clinical Relevance

Acid‐etching or rebonding application may contribute to reduction of microleakage of all‐in‐one self‐etching adhesives.
Low cardiac and aerobic scope in a coastal population of sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka with a short upriver migration
Authors: Eliason E. J. , Wilson S. M. , Farrell A. P. , Cooke S. J. , Hinch S. G.
Published: May 2013

This study showed that a coastal population (Harrison) of Fraser River sockeye salmon Oncorhynchus nerka had a lower aerobic and cardiac scope compared with interior populations with more challenging upriver spawning migrations, providing additional support to the idea that Fraser River O. nerka populations have adapted physiologically to their local migratory environment.
A New Method of Assessing Judicial Workload in Juvenile Dependency Cases
Authors: Summers Alicia , Macgill Stephanie O. , Gatowski Sophia I. , Russell Jesse R. , Wood Steve
Published: May 2013

This article describes a new method for calculating judicial workload in dependency or child abuse and neglect cases. In contrast to traditional judicial workload methods, the method described herein produces estimates of judicial workload that take into account the complex role of the juvenile dependency court judge—a role that includes both on‐ and off‐the‐bench activities. The method provides workload estimates that give guidance to courts not only about the minimally sufficient judicial resources needed to accommodate current caseload needs, but also what level of judicial resources would be required to hold substantive dependency court hearings that comport with nationally recognized practice recommendations. The article reviews commonly used judicial workload methods, outlines the new method, and uses a pilot of the method as an example of how the method works in practice. Broader implications of this workload method are also discussed.
Out of Africa: Miocene Dispersal, Vicariance, and Extinction within Hyacinthaceae Subfamily Urgineoideae
Authors: Ali Syed Shujait , Pfosser Martin , Wetschnig Wolfgang , Martínez‐Azorín Mario , Crespo Manuel B. , Yu Yan
Published: May 2013

Disjunct distribution patterns in plant lineages are usually explained according to three hypotheses: vicariance, geodispersal, and long‐distance dispersal. The role of these hypotheses is tested in Urgineoideae (Hyacinthaceae), a subfamily disjunctly distributed in Africa, Madagascar, India, and the Mediterranean region. The potential ancestral range, dispersal routes, and factors responsible for the current distribution in Urgineoideae are investigated using divergence time estimations. Urgineoideae originated in Southern Africa approximately 48.9 Mya. Two independent dispersal events in the Western Mediterranean region possibly occurred during Early Oligocene and Miocene (29.9–8.5 Mya) via Eastern and Northwestern Africa. A dispersal from Northwestern Africa to India could have occurred between 16.3 and 7.6 Mya. Vicariance and extinction events occurred approximately 21.6 Mya. Colonization of Madagascar occurred between 30.6 and 16.6 Mya, after a single transoceanic dispersal event from Southern Africa. The current disjunct distributions of Urgineoideae are not satisfactorily explained by Gondwana fragmentation or dispersal via boreotropical forests, due to the younger divergence time estimates. The flattened winged seeds of Urgineoideae could have played an important role in long‐distance dispersal by strong winds and big storms, whereas geodispersal could have also occurred from Southern Africa to Asia and the Mediterranean region via the so‐called arid and high‐altitude corridors.
Systemic vaccination with anti‐oligomeric monoclonal antibodies improves cognitive function by reducing Aβ deposition and tau pathology in 3xTg‐AD mice
Authors: Rasool Suhail , Martinez‐Coria Hilda , Wu Jessica W. , LaFerla Frank , Glabe Charles G.
Published: May 2013

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a devastating disorder that is clinically characterized by a comprehensive cognitive decline. Accumulation of the amyloid‐beta (Aβ) peptide plays a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of AD. In AD, the conversion of Aβ from a physiological soluble monomeric form into insoluble fibrillar conformation is an important event. The most toxic form of Aβ is oligomers, which is the intermediate step during the conversion of monomeric form to fibrillar form. There are at least two types of oligomers: oligomers that are immunologically related to fibrils and those that are not. In transgenic AD animal models, both active and passive anti‐Aβ immunotherapies improve cognitive function and clear the parenchymal accumulation of amyloid plaques in the brain. In this report we studied effect of immunotherapy of two sequence‐independent non‐fibrillar oligomer specific monoclonal antibodies on the cognitive function, amyloid load and tau pathology in 3xTg‐AD mice. Anti‐oligomeric monoclonal antibodies significantly reduce the amyloid load and improve the cognition. The clearance of amyloid load was significantly correlated with reduced tau hyperphosphorylation and improvement in cognition. These results demonstrate that systemic immunotherapy using oligomer‐specific monoclonal antibodies effectively attenuates behavioral and pathological impairments in 3xTg‐AD mice. These findings demonstrate the potential of using oligomer specific monoclonal antibodies as a therapeutic approach to prevent and treat Alzheimer's disease.
The evolving natural history of neurophysiologic function in patients with well‐controlled diabetes
Authors: Gibbons Christopher H. , Freeman Roy , Tecilazich Francisco , Dinh Thanh , Lyons Thomas E. , Gnardellis Charalambos , Veves Aristidis
Published: May 2013

This study aimed to investigate prospective changes to neurophysiologic function over 3 years in patients with well‐controlled diabetes. Sixty‐two subjects had neurologic examinations, symptom scores, autonomic testing, nerve conduction studies, quantitative sensory testing, and laser‐Doppler flowmetry at 18‐month intervals for 3 years. During the study, there was a 1 µV decrease in sural amplitude (p < 0.05), an increase in monofilament detection threshold of 0.36 g (p < 0.001), and a decrease in the axon‐reflex vasodilation in the foot (p < 0.005) and forearm (p < 0.05). There was an increase in symptoms of distal hypersensitivity (p < 0.005) but no change in neuropathy frequency or severity. Our findings suggest that laser‐Doppler flowmetry, a test of small fiber function, can detect the largest neurophysiologic change over time in groups of patients with diabetes. Sural nerve amplitude and monofilament thresholds may be more effective at detecting change in individual patients. Other tests of neurophysiologic function may require longer periods of time and greater numbers of participants to detect a difference. We conclude that patients with well‐controlled diabetes and optimal medical management of comorbid risk factors have low rates of neuropathy development and progression although the clinical relevance of this finding to the general population of individuals with diabetes is unknown.
Ten Years of Research: A Systematic Review of Three Refereed LD Journals
Authors: McFarland Laura , Williams Jacob , Miciak Jeremy
Published: May 2013

Content analyses of journals in the field of LD provide a means of surveying research and publication trends, the knowledge of which may inform policy and practice related to future research agendas. As the first decade of the current millennium was particularly contentious for the field of LD, we felt that a content review would be timely. In this paper, the content of three refereed LD journals—Journal of Learning Disabilities, Learning Disabilities Research & Practice, and Learning Disabilities Quarterly—was analyzed. Articles from 2001–2010 (n = 841) were systematically coded to capture article type, area of interest, population of interest, sample characteristics, and inclusion of students with LD. Results indicate that across the decade, (a) 68% of articles reported empirical research; (b) empirical research trended up; (c) publication of intervention research remained steady; (d) the most common foci were literacy and the non‐academic characteristics of individuals with LD; and (e) inclusion of participants labeled as having a LD declined. We discuss trends, possible explanations, and implications, highlighting areas for future research.
Effects of N‐acetylcysteine on cytokines in non‐acetaminophen acute liver failure: potential mechanism of improvement in transplant‐free survival
Authors: Stravitz R. Todd , Sanyal Arun J. , Reisch Joan , Bajaj Jasmohan S. , Mirshahi Farid , Cheng Jenfeng , Lee William M. ,   The Acute Liver Failure Study Group
Published: May 2013

Background

N‐Acetylcysteine (NAC) improves transplant‐free survival in patients with non‐acetaminophen acute liver failure (ALF) when administered in early stages of hepatic encephalopathy. The mechanisms of this benefit are unknown.

Aim

To determine whether NAC improves transplant‐free survival in ALF by ameliorating the surge of pro‐inflammatory cytokines.

Methods

Serum samples were obtained from 78 participants of the randomized, ALF Study Group NAC Trial with grade 1 or 2 hepatic encephalopathy on randomization. Concentrations of ten cytokines, chosen to represent a wide array of inflammatory responses, were determined by multiplex enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay ELISA.

Results

In univariate analysis, predictors of transplant‐free survival included NAC administration (P = 0.012), admission bilirubin (P = 0.003), international normalized ratio INR (P = 0.0002), grade 1 vs. grade 2 encephalopathy (P = 0.006) and lower admission interleukin (IL)‐17 concentrations (P = 0.011). IL‐17 levels were higher in patients with grade 2 vs. grade 1 encephalopathy on randomization (P = 0.007) and in those who progressed to grade 3 or grade 4 encephalopathy over the following 7 days (P ≤ 0.01). Stepwise multivariate logistic regression analysis identified only NAC administration and lower IL‐17 concentrations as independent predictors of transplant‐free survival. In patients with detectable IL‐17 concentrations on admission, 78% of those who received NAC vs. 44% of those who received placebo had undetectable levels by day 3–5 (P = 0.042), and the mean decrease in IL‐17 concentrations between admission and late samples was significantly greater in patients who received NAC vs. placebo (P = 0.045).

Conclusions

N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) may improve transplant‐free survival in patients with non‐acetaminophen ALF by ameliorating the production of IL‐17, which is associated with progression of hepatic encephalopathy and poor outcome.
MTTP polymorphisms and susceptibility to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in a Han Chinese population
Authors: Peng Xian E. , Wu Yun L. , Lu Qing Q. , Hu Zhi J. , Lin Xu
Published: May 2013

Background

The microsomal triglyceride transfer protein (MTP) is required for the assembly and secretion of apolipoprotein B (ApoB)‐containing lipoproteins from the liver and intestine. Previous studies showed that functional polymorphisms in the MTTP gene correspond to lower LDL levels and protect against other traits of the metabolic syndrome.

Aims

Here, we aimed to investigate whether MTTP single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and their predicted haplotypes of linkage disequilibrium blocks contribute to non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) susceptibility in a Han Chinese population.

Methods

Seven tag SNPs in the MTTP gene were selected and genotyped in a frequency‐matched case–control study in a population from Fuzhou City, China. We enrolled 580 patients with NAFLD and 580 healthy controls.

Results

In the multivariate logistic regression analysis, the rs1800804 (‐164 T/C) was associated with an increased risk of NAFLD, while the rs1057613 A/G and rs3805335 C/T SNPs were associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD. The cumulative effect of the rs1800804 (‐164 T/C), rs1057613 and rs3805335 was estimated, and a significant increased trend in the risk of NAFLD with increasing genetic risk score was observed (adjusted Ptrend = 0.014). Furthermore, the results of haplotype analysis suggested that the haplotype GC in block 1 containing the ‐164 C allele was associated with an increased risk of NAFLD, while haplotype TGTTC in block 2 was associated with a decreased risk of NAFLD.

Conclusions

Our data show that MTTP genetic polymorphisms influence the susceptibility to developing NAFLD independently or jointly in the Han Chinese population.
A Bayesian statistical assessment of representative samples for asteroidal or meteoritical material
Authors: Carter Jonathan N. , Sephton Mark A.
Published: May 2013

Primitive substances in asteroid and meteorite materials represent a record of early solar system evolution. To allow the study of these materials, they must be collected and transferred to the laboratory. Collection during sample return missions requires an assessment of the size of samples needed. Meteorite falls or finds must be subdivided into appropriate subsamples for analysis by successive generations of scientists. It is essential, therefore, to determine a representative mass or volume at which the collected or allocated sample is representative of the whole. For the first time, we have used a Bayesian statistical approach and a selected meteorite sample, Murchison, to identify a recommended smallest sample mass that can be used without interferences from sampling bias. Enhancing background knowledge to inform sample selection and analysis is an effective means of increasing the probability of obtaining a positive scientific outcome. The influence of the subdivision mechanism when preparing samples for distribution has also been examined. Assuming a similar size distribution of fragments to that of the Murchison meteorite, cubes can be similarly representative as fragments, but at orders of magnitude smaller sizes. We find that: (1) at all defined probabilities (90%, 95%, and 99%), nanometer‐sized particles (where the axes of a three‐dimensional sample are less that a nanometer in length) are never representative of the whole; (2) at the intermediate and highest defined probabilities (95% and 99%), micrometer‐sized particles are never representative of the whole; and (3) for micrometer‐sized samples, the only sample that is representative of the whole is a cube and then only at a 90% probability. The difference between cubes and fragments becomes less important as sample size increases and any >0.5 mm‐sized sample will be representative of the whole with a probability of 99.9%. The results provide guidance for sample return mission planners and curators or advisory boards that must distribute valuable samples for analysis.
The RNAi machinery regulates growth and development in the filamentous fungus Trichoderma atroviride
Authors: Carreras‐Villaseñor Nohemi , Esquivel‐Naranjo Edgardo U. , Villalobos‐Escobedo J. Manuel , Abreu‐Goodger Cei , Herrera‐Estrella Alfredo
Published: May 2013

The RNAi machinery is generally involved in genome protection in filamentous fungi; however, the physiological role of RNAi has been poorly studied in fungal models. Here, we report that in the filamentous fungus Trichoderma atroviride, the products of the dcr2 and rdr3 genes control reproductive development, because mutations in these genes affect conidiation. In addition, Dcr1 together with Dcr2 control vegetative growth since Δdcr1, Δdcr2 and Δdcr1Δdcr2 present morphological alterations. Whole‐genome transcriptional analysis of WT, Δdcr1, Δdcr2 and Δdcr1Δdcr2 show that each Dicer controls different biological processes, such as development or metabolism, which could explain the lack of conidiation in the mutants. Finally, we observed sRNAs that are differentially expressed in the WT and Δdcr2. The expression of some of these sRNAs correlates with the expression of differential transcripts, suggesting that these mRNAs may contain the corresponding targets. Together these data show that in T. atroviride, the RNAi machinery plays a central role in endogenous processes such as development and fitness, beyond controlling genome protection against invasive nucleic acids as reported for other fungi.
HrpE3 is a type III effector protein required for full virulence of Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola in rice
Authors: Cui Yiping , Zou Lifang , Zou Huasong , Li Yurong , Zakria Muhammad , Chen Gongyou
Published: May 2013

Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzicola (Xoc) is the causal agent of bacterial leaf streak, a devastating disease in rice. Xoc uses a type III secretion (T3S) system, which is encoded by the hrp–hrc–hpa (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity, hrp‐conserved and hrp‐associated) genes, to inject repertoires of T3S effectors (T3Es) into plant cells. Many of the hrp–hrc–hpa genes have roles in pathogenesis, but the role of hrpE3, which shows homology to hpaE in X. campestris pv. vesicatoria (Xcv), is poorly understood. In this study, hrpE3 was shown to be transcribed independent of the hrpD operon, and its expression was dependent on a promoter within hpaB. The expression of hrpE3 was positively regulated by HrpG and HrpX, a finding probably caused by an imperfect plant‐inducible promoter (PIP) box (TTCGT‐N16‐TTCGA) in the hrpE3 promoter. The secretion of HrpE3 was dependent on T3S, and subcellular localization of HrpE3 was cytoplasmic and nuclear in plant cells. A mutation in hrpE3 reduced the virulence of Xoc by decreasing disease lesion length and bacterial growth in planta. Full virulence was restored to the mutant when Xoc hrpE3, but not Xcv hpaE, was expressed in trans. The differences in transcription, secretion via the T3S system and bacterial virulence in plants were attributed to N‐terminal amino acid differences between Xoc HrpE3 and Xcv HpaE. Collectively, the results demonstrate that hrpE3 encodes a T3E protein which is delivered into the plant cell through the T3S system, localizes to the cytoplasm and nucleus, and is required for full virulence in rice.
KHA‐CARI guideline: Dialysis adequacy (haemodialysis): Dialysis membranes
Authors: Kerr Peter G , Toussaint Nigel D
Published: May 2013

Summary at a glance

This is a concise and objective assessment of the potential benefits of different types of membranes: notably synthetic high flux membranes. This review represents CARI's guidelines and should be beneficial to the nephrologists.
Floral isolation inPedicularis: how do congeners with shared pollinators minimize reproductive interference?
Authors: Huang Shuang‐Quan , Shi Xiao‐Qing
Published: May 2013

To minimize interspecific pollination, it has been suggested that pollen is placed on different parts of a pollinator's body corresponding to the conspecific location of pollen pickup by the stigma.

AlthoughPedicularisis regarded as a classic example of pollinator‐mediated floral isolation, such reciprocal pollen placement has not been demonstrated experimentally. This leads us to question previous observations of pollen release inPedicularisspecies.

Here, we show that pollen grains are released from the tip, rather than the basal opening, of the galea (the hoodlike upper lip of the corolla) in eight nectarlessPedicularisspecies, mimicking pollen release from poricidal anthers. We used safranin‐stained pollen within anthers to track pollen placement in threePedicularisspecies, and showed that pollen was deposited on numerous parts of the bumblebee's body. However, fluorescent powder placed on the stigmas to detect the contact location on the bumblebee's body was deposited mainly on the major position of pollen placement in each of the three species.

Such segregation of pollen placement and pickup between species sharing the same pollinator probably helps to reduce reproductive interference, but the positions of pollen placement and stigma contact on the bumblebee's body were not as precise as previously thought.