bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On the development of National Science and Technology Library
Authors: Meng Liansheng
Published: September 2014

Purpose

– This study aims to discuss the creation and development of China’s National Science and Technology Library (NSTL), provide an overview of the information services it provides for sci-tech researchers throughout the People’s Republic of China, and highlight the leading role it plays in fostering scientific innovation in China.

Design/methodology/approach

– The author uses a case study approach based on his own professional experience at the NSTL.

Findings

– The NSTL offers a wide variety of information, reference and document delivery services for sci-tech researchers in China.

Originality/value

– The NSTL plays a leading role in the provision and innovation of such services, and as such has a direct and positive impact on the quality of scientific research and innovation in China.
Detection of measles, mumps and rubella viruses by immuno‐colorimetric assay and its application in focus reduction neutralization tests
Authors: Vaidya Sunil R. , Kumbhar Neelakshi S. , Bhide Vandana S.
Published: September 2014

Measles, mumps and rubella are vaccine‐preventable diseases; however limited epidemiological data are available from low‐income or developing countries. Thus, it is important to investigate the transmission of these viruses in different geographical regions. In this context, a cell culture‐based rapid and reliable immuno‐colorimetric assay (ICA) was established and its utility studied. Twenty‐three measles, six mumps and six rubella virus isolates and three vaccine strains were studied. Detection by ICA was compared with plaque and RT‐PCR assays. In addition, ICA was used to detect viruses in throat swabs (n = 24) collected from patients with suspected measles or mumps. Similarly, ICA was used in a focus reduction neutralization test (FRNT) and the results compared with those obtained by a commercial IgG enzyme immuno assay. Measles and mumps virus were detected 2 days post‐infection in Vero or Vero‐human signaling lymphocytic activation molecule cells, whereas rubella virus was detected 3 days post‐infection in Vero cells. The blue stained viral foci were visible by the naked eye or through a magnifying glass. In conclusion, ICA was successfully used on 35 virus isolates, three vaccine strains and clinical specimens collected from suspected cases of measles and mumps. Furthermore, an application of ICA in a neutralization test (i.e., FRNT) was documented; this may be useful for sero‐epidemiological, cross‐neutralization and pre/post‐vaccine studies.
First‐ and second‐trimester tests to predict stillbirth in unselected pregnant women: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Conde‐Agudelo A , Bird S , Kennedy SH , Villar J , Papageorghiou AT
Published: September 2014

Background

Several biophysical and biochemical tests have been proposed to predict stillbirth but their predictive ability remains unclear.

Objective

To assess the accuracy of tests performed during the first and/or second trimester of pregnancy to predict stillbirth in unselected women with singleton, structurally and chromosomally normal fetuses through use of formal methods for systematic reviews and meta‐analytic techniques.

Search strategy

Electronic databases, bibliographies and conference proceedings.

Selection criteria

Observational studies that evaluated the predictive accuracy for stillbirth of tests performed during the first two trimesters of pregnancy.

Data collection and analysis

Two reviewers selected studies, assessed risk of bias and extracted data. Summary receiver operating characteristic curves, pooled sensitivities, specificities and likelihood ratios (LRs) were generated. Data were synthesised separately for stillbirth as a sole category and for specific stillbirth categories.

Main results

Seventy‐one studies, evaluating 16 single and five combined tests, met the inclusion criteria. A uterine artery pulsatility index >90th centile during the second trimester and low levels of pregnancy‐associated plasma protein A (PAPP‐A) during the first trimester had a moderate to high predictive accuracy for stillbirth related to placental abruption, small‐for‐gestational‐age or pre‐eclampsia (positive and negative LRs from 6.3 to 14.1, and from 0.1 to 0.4, respectively). All biophysical and biochemical tests assessed had a low predictive accuracy for stillbirth as a sole category.

Conclusions

Currently, there is no clinically useful first‐trimester or second‐trimester test to predict stillbirth as a sole category. Uterine artery pulsatility index and maternal serum PAPP‐A levels appeared to be good predictors of stillbirth related to placental dysfunction disorders.
N‐acyl‐homoserine lactones‐producing bacteria protect plants against plant and human pathogens
Authors: Hernández‐Reyes Casandra , Schenk Sebastian T. , Neumann Christina , Kogel Karl‐Heinz , Schikora Adam
Published: September 2014

The implementation of beneficial microorganisms for plant protection has a long history. Many rhizobia bacteria are able to influence the immune system of host plants by inducing resistance towards pathogenic microorganisms. In this report, we present a translational approach in which we demonstrate the resistance‐inducing effect of Ensifer meliloti (Sinorhizobium meliloti) on crop plants that have a significant impact on the worldwide economy and on human nutrition. Ensifer meliloti is usually associated with root nodulation in legumes and nitrogen fixation. Here, we suggest that the ability of S. meliloti to induce resistance depends on the production of the quorum‐sensing molecule, oxo‐C14‐HSL. The capacity to enhanced resistance provides a possibility to the use these beneficial bacteria in agriculture. Using the Arabidopsis‐Salmonella model, we also demonstrate that the application of N‐acyl‐homoserine lactones‐producing bacteria could be a successful strategy to prevent plant‐originated infections with human pathogens.
Depreciation in the Canadian Airline Industry
Authors: Bujaki Merridee , Durocher Sylvain
Published: September 2014

This case is designed to help students enhance their analytical skills and link accounting policy choices with corporate strategy. Written initially for MBA students and senior analysts attending executive education sessions, it provides participants with 1) industry background for the Canadian airline sector, and 2) historical and selected financial and non‐financial information from the annual reports and initial public offering documents of three players in this industry. Participants are invited to reflect on the theoretical and practical reasons underlying the choice of a depreciation method by airline companies, to find ways to quantitatively compare companies that use different depreciation methods, and to link these policy choices to possible strategic considerations. This case is based on a unique situation prevailing in 2009 where financial information was available for all three airlines which were using different approaches for aircraft depreciation.
Growth hormone signaling is necessary for lifespan extension by dietary methionine
Authors: Brown‐Borg Holly M. , Rakoczy Sharlene G. , Wonderlich Joseph A. , Rojanathammanee Lalida , Kopchick John J. , Armstrong Vanessa , Raasakka Debbie
Published: September 2014

Growth hormone significantly impacts lifespan in mammals. Mouse longevity is extended when growth hormone (GH) signaling is interrupted but markedly shortened with high‐plasma hormone levels. Methionine metabolism is enhanced in growth hormone deficiency, for example, in the Ames dwarf, but suppressed in GH transgenic mice. Methionine intake affects also lifespan, and thus, GH mutant mice and respective wild‐type littermates were fed 0.16%, 0.43%, or 1.3% methionine to evaluate the interaction between hormone status and methionine. All wild‐type and GH transgenic mice lived longer when fed 0.16% methionine but not when fed higher levels. In contrast, animals without growth hormone signaling due to hormone deficiency or resistance did not respond to altered levels of methionine in terms of lifespan, body weight, or food consumption. Taken together, our results suggest that the presence of growth hormone is necessary to sense dietary methionine changes, thus strongly linking growth and lifespan to amino acid availability.
Death in the Cathedral: the Long Battle over French National Identity and the Legacy of Vichy
Authors: Lackerstein Debbie
Published: September 2014

The reaction to the law legalising same‐sex marriage in France shocked the nation and the world in 2013. Opposition to the law seemed to join forces with a plethora of new right‐wing activist groups, leading to mass demonstrations, violence in the streets of Paris and even to a death in the cathedral of Notre Dame. The social unrest can be explained in part by the increasing pressures of economic recession and the emergence of the far right as a mainstream but divisive political force; still, the level of passion that the law unleashed seems puzzling. A more profound explanation of that passion is that the law opened a deep faultline that has divided France throughout its modern history — the concept of its national identity. Contemporary France is troubled by frequent comparisons to the political ferment and disastrous turmoil of the 1930s. Diametrically opposed moral visions of national identity seem to recall, above all, the anneés noires, the “dark years” of German Occupation when the Vichy regime attempted to regenerate France though its National Revolution while also pursuing a policy of collaboration. Social reform in France, particularly any reform relating to perceptions of national identity, is still today overshadowed by the legacy of Vichy's moral vision and its attempt to create a New Man for a New Order. This paper will explore that legacy.
The Return of the Avant‐Garde in Post‐war West Germany
Authors: Lee Mia
Published: September 2014

This article investigates the uneven recovery of art post‐1945. The return of debates on modernism and the emergence of the neo‐avant‐garde showcase the lines of continuity across the zero hour of 1945 as well as the art foundations for radical political action in West Germany.
The Two Streams of Australia's Middle Power Imagining and their Sources
Authors: Patience Allan
Published: September 2014

This essay identifies two streams of middle power imagining in Australian foreign policy. The first springs from four sources, forming a version of middle power imagining that emphasizes security challenges facing Australia, requiring alliances with “great and powerful friends”. The second stream, springing from the fifth source outlined below, reflects an ambiguous idealism in the middle power imagining it produces. The essay notes that the first stream of middle power imagining is the dominant one in Australian foreign policy thinking.
Kielland's forceps. From controversy to consensus?
Authors: Nash Zachary , Nathan Bassem , Mascarenhas Lawrence
Published: September 2014

Kielland's rotational forceps are designed to overcome malposition of the fetal head in the second stage of labor. After a decline in their use because of reported adverse outcomes and fear of litigation, recent evidence suggests that they may be safe and effective in trained hands and significantly more successful at achieving operative vaginal delivery than either rotational ventouse or manual rotation. This is important because of the increased short and long‐term morbidity related to cesarean section compared with the reduced morbidity of subsequent pregnancy after operative vaginal delivery. Kielland's forceps are therefore re‐emerging as a useful instrument in the armamentarium of modern obstetrics. Limitations to wider use of Kielland's forceps are the lack of training opportunities as well as that contemporary evidence remains underpowered to detect rare adverse outcomes.
Optimizing delivery of recovery‐oriented online self‐management strategies for bipolar disorder: a review
Authors: Leitan Nuwan D , Michalak Erin E , Berk Lesley , Berk Michael , Murray Greg
Published: September 2014

Objectives

Self‐management is emerging as a viable alternative to difficult‐to‐access psychosocial treatments for bipolar disorder (BD), and has particular relevance to recovery‐related goals around empowerment and personal meaning. This review examines data and theory on BD self‐management from a recovery‐oriented perspective, with a particular focus on optimizing low‐intensity delivery of self‐management tools via the web.

Methods

A critical evaluation of various literatures was undertaken. Literatures on recovery, online platforms, and self‐management in mental health and BD are reviewed.

Results

The literature suggests that the self‐management approach aligns with the recovery framework. However, studies have identified a number of potential barriers to the utilization of self‐management programs for BD and it has been suggested that utilizing an online environment may be an effective way to surmount many of these barriers.

Conclusions

Online self‐management programs for BD are rapidly developing, and in parallel the recovery perspective is becoming the dominant paradigm for mental health services worldwide, so research is urgently required to assess the efficacy and safety of optimization methods such as professional and/or peer support, tailoring and the development of ‘online communities’.
Exposure therapy for fear of spiders in an adult with learning disabilities: a case report
Authors: Cowdrey Felicity A. , Walz Linda
Published: September 2014

Accessible summary

Not many researchers have written about therapy for spider fear in people with learning disabilities.

In this study, a woman with learning disabilities completed a questionnaire about the therapy she was having for her fear of spiders.

The results from the questionnaire suggested that the therapy did help the woman's spider fear.

The results should make professionals working with people with learning disabilities think creatively about how therapy for specific fears is done and also the best way to check whether the therapy is helping.

The evidence‐base for exposure therapy in people with learning disabilities experiencing specific phobias is sparse. This case study describes the assessment, formulation and treatment of spider phobia in a woman with learning disabilities using an exposure‐based intervention augmented with mindfulness practice and bereavement work. To evaluate the intervention, a self‐report measure of spider phobia was employed and completed during a baseline (A) and intervention (B) phase. Results demonstrate a reduction in self‐reported fear after 11 sessions. This case study illustrates how in some cases modified self‐report measures can be used to evaluate psychological treatments in people with learning disabilities and also highlights the importance of being formulation‐led and creative when designing exposure‐based interventions for specific phobias.
Evidence‐based training as primary prevention of hand eczema in a population of hospital cleaning workers
Authors: Clemmensen Kim K. B. , Randbøll Ingelise , Ryborg Malene F. , Ebbehøj Niels E. , Agner Tove
Published: September 2014

Background

Skin disorders accounted for one third of all recognised occupational diseases in Denmark in 2010. Wet work is a risk factor for the development of occupational hand eczema. The consequences of occupational hand eczema include sick leave, loss of job and impaired quality of life.

Objectives

The aim of the present study was to investigate exposures related to cleaning and the effect of an evidence‐based educational intervention on the prevention of hand eczema among hospital cleaners.

Patients/Materials/Methods

The intervention consisted of a 1 hr course in hand protective behaviour. All full‐time cleaners working at Bispebjerg Hospital in January 2013 were invited to participate. The outcome measures were self‐reported skin behaviour, exposures, knowledge of skin protection and hand eczema severity index (HECSI).

Results

One hundred and five cleaners were invited to participate, of these 86 (82%) were included. At follow‐up after 3 months there was a shift towards fewer daily hand washings and hand disinfections (p < 0.001 and p = 0.001 respectively). The number of correct answers to the knowledge questions rose from 6.3 to 7.3 (p = 0.006). The mean HECSI score decreased from 2.8 to 1.8 at follow‐up (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Data indicates a positive effect of a low‐cost on‐site educational intervention for hospital cleaners.
Combining natal range distributions and phylogeny to resolve biogeographic uncertainties in balloon vines (Cardiospermum, Sapindaceae)
Authors: Gildenhuys Enelge , Ellis Allan G. , Carroll Scott P. , Le Roux Johannes J.
Published: September 2014

Aim

A key aspect of effective invasive plant management is a clear understanding of natal ranges. In the balloon vine genus, Cardiospermum, uncertain native biogeographic ranges are hampering ongoing biological control efforts against invasive taxa in southern Africa. With the objective of minimizing non‐target impacts, which are a major concern for conservation, we combine phylogenetic analyses with known native range distributions of selected Cardiospermum species to resolve unknown natal ranges for globally widespread balloon vines which occur in southern Africa.

Location

Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Fiji, Hawaii, Mayotte, Namibia, South Africa, Tanzania, Tahiti and Uganda.

Methods

Phylogenetic relationships and dispersal histories of known invasive and native populations of Cardiospermum species (C. corindum, C. grandiflorum, C. halicacabum and C. pechuelii) were inferred from network and phylogeny reconstructions for two plastid genes (rpl32 and trnL‐F) to closely investigate relationships within and among balloon vine species. The timing of putative transoceanic dispersal events was determined from a dated nDNA (internal transcribed spacer, ITS) phylogeny using a relaxed molecular clock and a previously identified root age for the group.

Results

Both phylogenies (cpDNA and nDNA) and the haplotype network (cpDNA only) indicated no clear genetic structure for Cardiospermum halicacabum world‐wide, that is incongruence between geography and evolutionary relatedness. Similarly, we found no global geographic structure in C. grandiflorum, with the exception of Hawaiian and Ugandan accessions which formed a distinct monophyletic clade. In contrast, deep divergence was identified for C. corindum between southern Africa and native South American populations, both within the haplotype network and phylogenetic trees (dated at 5.9–15.1 Ma). More surprising, however, was the observed close phylogenetic relationship between the true African balloon vine species, C. pechuelii and African C. corindum, with the former rendering C. corindum paraphyletic, supporting the native status of the latter in southern Africa.

Main conclusions

We conclude that C. halicacabum is likely non‐native in southern Africa, while both C. corindum and C. pechuelii are native to southern Africa. We confirm the invasive status of C. grandiflorum in southern Africa and Australia but suggest that its status (native or invasive) be reviewed in other regions outside South America. We recommend that already‐identified biological control agents with potential non‐target impacts on C. corindum and C. pechuelii not be released against invasive Cardiospermum taxa in southern Africa and careful monitoring of such impacts for agents that have already been released prior to this study.
Restoration of the insulinotropic effect of glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide contributes to the antidiabetic effect of dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitors
Authors: Aaboe K. , Akram S. , Deacon C. F. , Holst J. J. , Madsbad S. , Krarup T.
Published: September 2014

Aims

To examine whether 12 weeks of treatment with a dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 (DPP‐4) inhibitor, sitagliptin, influences the insulin secretion induced by glucose, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) during a hyperglycaemic clamp in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study was conducted over 12 weeks, during which 25 patients with T2DM completed treatment with either sitagliptin (100 mg once daily) or placebo as add‐on therapy to metformin [sitagliptin group (n = 12): mean ± standard error of the mean (s.e.m.) age 54 ± 2.5 years, mean ± s.e.m. HbA1c 7.8 ± 0.2%; placebo group (n = 13): mean ± s.e.m. age: 57 ± 3.0 years, mean ± s.e.m. HbA1c 7.9 ± 0.2 %]. In weeks 1 and 12, the patients underwent three 2‐h 15‐mM hyperglycaemic clamp experiments with infusion of either saline, GLP‐1 or GIP. β‐cell function was evaluated according to first‐phase, second‐phase, incremental and total insulin and C‐peptide responses.

Results

In the sitagliptin group, the mean HbA1c concentration was significantly reduced by 0.9% (p = 0.01). The total β‐cell response during GIP infusion improved signficantly from week 1 to week 12, both within the sitagliptin group (p = 0.004) and when compared with the placebo group (p = 0.04). The total β‐cell response during GLP‐1 infusion was significantly higher (p = 0.001) when compared with saline and GIP infusion, but with no improvement from week 1 to week 12. No significant changes in β‐cell function occurred in the placebo group.

Conclusions

Treatment with the DPP‐4 inhibitor sitagliptin over 12 weeks in patients with T2DM partially restored the lost insulinotropic effect of GIP, whereas the preserved insulinotropic effect of GLP‐1 was not further improved. A gradual enhancement of the insulinotropic effect of GIP, therefore, possibly contributes to the antidiabetic actions of DPP‐4 inhibitors.
Right Heart and Pulmonary Vessels Structure and Function
Authors: D'Alto Michele , Scognamiglio Giancarlo , Dimopoulos Kostantinos , Bossone Eduardo , Vizza Dario , Romeo Emanuele , Vonk‐Noordergraaf Anton , Gaine Sean , Peacock Andrew , Naeije Robert
Published: September 2014

The right ventricle (RV) can be described in terms of 3 components: the inlet, the apex, and the infundibulum. In the normal adult, the RV shows an arrangement suited for pumping blood against low resistance, with a mass about one sixth that of left ventricle (LV) mass, and a larger volume than the LV. The RV is able to manage a progressive increase in the afterload by increasing contractility and remodeling. The gold standard measurement of contractility is maximal elastance (Emax), or the ratio between end‐systolic pressure (ESP) and end‐systolic volume (ESV), and the best measurement of afterload is arterial elastance (Ea), or the ratio between ESP and stroke volume (SV). The ratio Emax/Ea defines RV‐arterial coupling. The optimal energy transfer from the RV to the pulmonary circulation is measured at Emax/Ea ratios of 1.5–2. In the presence of pulmonary hypertension, the SV/ESV ratio may be an acceptable surrogate of Emax/Ea. The right atrium (RA) has 3 anatomical components: the appendage, the venous part, and the vestibule. It is a dynamic structure having different functions: reservoir, conduit, and booster pump function. In case of increased afterload, the RA is enlarged, denoting high RA pressure, as a consequence of elevated RV diastolic pressure. RA area is a strong predictor of adverse clinical outcome in pulmonary arterial hypertension. In patients with severe pulmonary hypertension, in several congenital heart diseases, and in Eisenmenger syndrome, symptoms and prognosis are greatly dependent on RV function and its ability to adapt to a chronic increase in afterload.
Effect of storage temperature on the viability of human periodontal ligament fibroblasts
Authors: Chen Fubo , Qi Shengcai , Lu Liyan , Xu Yuanzhi
Published: September 2014

Background

The viability of periodontal ligament fibroblasts (PDLF) can affect the long‐term prognosis of replanted avulsed teeth. When immediate replantation of an avulsed tooth is not possible, the cells should be incubated in a physiological storage medium instantly to maintain their biological activity. The ability of different storage media to preserve PDLF viability has been previously evaluated. However, few studies have showed the effect of temperature on the viability of PDLF cultured with various storage media in vitro.

Material and Methods

This study was designed to measure PDLF activity by CCK‐8 assay to compare the effectiveness at 4, 22 (room temperature), and 37°C under various storage media.

Results

Statistical analysis demonstrated that tap water, saline, and saliva decreased cell viability as the storage temperature increased. But the temperature played only a minor role on cell viability when cells were incubated in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), Dubelco's modified Eagle's medium (DMEM), or milk.

Conclusions

Within the parameters of this study, it seems that room temperature is adequate for storing the avulsed teeth in HBSS, DMEM, or milk in the extra‐alveolar period.
Comparison of umbilical cord blood allogeneic stem cell transplantation vs. auto‐SCT for adult acute myeloid leukemia patients in second complete remission at transplant: a retrospective study on behalf of the SFGM‐TC
Authors: Chevallier Patrice , Labopin Myriam , Socie Gerard , Rubio Marie‐There , Blaise Didier , Vigouroux Stephane , Huynh Anne , Michallet Mauricette , Bay Jacques‐Olivier , Maury Sébastien , Yakoub‐Agha Ibrahim , Fegueux Nathalie , Deconinck Eric , Contentin Nathalie , Maillard Natacha , Bulabois Claude‐Eric , Francois Sylvie , Oumedaly Reman , Raus Nicole , Mohty Mohamad
Published: September 2014

This retrospective study considered the outcomes of 181 patients with acute myeloid leukemia (AML) transplanted in second complete remission (CR2) between January 2005 and April 2012 and who received either a myeloablative autologous stem cell transplant (Auto‐SCT; n = 82; median age: 48 years; median follow‐up: 45 months) or an umbilical cord blood (UCB) allogeneic SCT (n = 99, median age: 46 years; median follow‐up: 36 months; conditioning regimens: myeloablative n = 21, reduced n = 78; single unit n = 37, double units n = 62). Although the Auto group showed a significant better prognostic profile at transplant, with longer median interval between diagnosis and time of graft, higher incidence of good‐risk cytogenetics and lower number of previously transplanted patients, 3‐year OS and LFS were similar between both groups (Auto: 59 ± 6% vs. 50 ± 6%, P = 0.45; and 57 ± 6% vs. 46 ± 6%, P = 0.37). In multivariate analysis, UCB allo‐SCT was associated with lower relapse incidence (HR: 0.3, 95% CI: 0.11–0.82, P = 0.02), but higher non‐relapse mortality (NRM) (HR: 4.16; 95% CI: 1.46–11.9, P = 0.008). Results from this large study suggest that UCB allo‐SCT provides better disease control than auto‐SCT, which is especially important in the setting of high‐risk disease. However, this disease control advantage is counterbalanced by higher toxicity, highlighting the need for novel approaches aiming to decrease NRM after UCB allo‐SCT.
Risk factors for health‐related quality of life in children with epilepsy: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ferro Mark A.
Published: September 2014

Objective

The aims of this study were to conduct a meta‐analysis of risk factors for health‐related quality of life (HRQL) in children with epilepsy; interpret the results in terms of study quality; and, assess the nature and source of heterogeneity of estimates.

Methods

Databases were searched for studies that examined HRQL in pediatric epilepsy. The inclusion criteria were original studies published in English from 1994 through to the end of January 2014; children ≤18 years of age with epilepsy; included a parent‐ or self‐reported measure of HRQL; and, data were presented such that the calculation of a correlation coefficient was possible. Study quality was measured using a modified Quality Index.

Results

A total of 12 risk factors from 21 studies were analyzed. The mean Quality Index score was 10.4 (standard deviation [SD] 1.9). Correlations between risk factors and HRQL had a minimum of r = −0.03 and a maximum of r = −0.44. Child sex, age, and age at onset were not significantly associated with HRQL. Duration of epilepsy, seizure type, frequency, and severity, number of antiepileptic drugs, side effects of antiepileptic drugs, presence of a comorbidity, parental anxiety, and family socioeconomic status were significantly associated with HRQL. Informant (child vs. parent), year of publication, and study quality were found to be sources of heterogeneity for certain risk factors.

Significance

Results demonstrated that a variety of clinical and family factors are associated with HRQL in children with epilepsy and have implications for research and practice. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies to identify predictors of HRQL that are amenable to intervention and should evaluate whether changes in these predictors result in more favorable HRQL in children with epilepsy.
Pathophysiology and clinical features of pituitary pars intermedia dysfunction
Authors: McFarlane D.
Published: September 2014

Our understanding of the development and progression of equine pituitary pars intermedia (PI) dysfunction has expanded over the last decade, although much remains to be explained. Degeneration of the hypothalamic periventricular dopaminergic neurons results in disinhibition of the endocrine cells of the PI, the melanotropes. As a result, the PI enlarges, compressing the adjacent lobes, the pars distalis and pars nervosa. The disinhibited melanotropes overproduce pro‐opiomelanocortin peptides, including α‐melanocyte stimulating hormone, β‐endorphin, corticotrophin‐like intermediate lobe peptide and adrenocorticotropin. The excess in PI hormones, perhaps in concert with a deficiency in other pituitary hormones, results in clinical signs of pituitary PI dysfunction. Evidence suggests both oxidative stress and accumulation of misfolded neuronal proteins contribute to damage to the periventricular neurons, although it is not clear if these pathologies actually initiate the disease or are downstream events.
The impact of different equine influenza vaccine products and other factors on equine influenza antibody levels in Thoroughbred racehorses
Authors: Ryan M. , Gildea S. , Walsh C. , Cullinane A.
Published: September 2014

Reasons for performing study

More knowledge of equine influenza (EI) vaccine usage in training yards and the factors that influence serological response to vaccination are required to determine evidence‐based vaccination strategies.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to ascertain the vaccination history of a population of Thoroughbred racehorses and identify factors that impacted on their antibody titres against EI.

Study design

Observational field study.

Methods

The study population consisted of 102 vaccinated Thoroughbred horses in training on a single premises. The vaccination histories recorded in their official passports were analysed. Blood samples for serological testing were collected by the veterinary surgeon one month after booster vaccination with ProteqFlu‐Te. Antibodies against EI were measured by single radial haemolysis (SRH). Multivariate statistical analysis was undertaken to determine the predictors of SRH antibody titres.

Results

There was a strong correlation between age and number of vaccine doses received. Over 70% of horses received their first vaccine dose between ages 6 and 12 months. On average, horses had received 6 vaccine doses and the mean interval between booster vaccinations was 7.7 months. The majority of horses (95%) received more than one influenza vaccine product while 32% had received 3 vaccine products. Significantly higher antibody levels were observed in females than males and there was a significant association between the number of vaccine products administered and antibody levels. In contrast, a negative association between number of vaccine doses and SRH antibody level was demonstrated.

Conclusions

Important predictors of EI antibody titres in racehorses were sex, number of vaccine doses received and number of different vaccine products administered.
Ultraviolet irradiation represses TGF‐β type II receptor transcription through a 38‐bp sequence in the proximal promoter in human skin fibroblasts
Authors: He Tianyuan , Quan Taihao , Fisher Gary J.
Published: September 2014

Transforming growth factor‐β (TGF‐β) is a major regulator of collagen gene expression in human skin fibroblasts. Cellular responses to TGF‐β are mediated primarily through its cell surface type I (TβRI) and type II (TβRII) receptors. Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation impairs TGF‐β signalling largely due to reduced TβRII gene expression, thereby decreasing type I procollagen synthesis, in human skin fibroblasts. UV irradiation does not alter either TβRII mRNA or protein stability, indicating that UV reduction in TβRII expression likely results from transcriptional or translational repression. To understand how UV irradiation regulates TβRII transcription, we used a series of TβRII promoter‐luciferase 5′‐deletion constructs (covering 2 kb of the TβRII proximal promoter) to determine transcriptional rate in response to UV irradiation. We identified a 137‐bp region upstream of the transcriptional start site that exhibited high promoter activity and was repressed 60% by UV irradiation, whereas all other TβRII promoter reporter constructs exhibited either low promoter activities or no regulation by UV irradiation. Mutation of potential transcription factor binding sites within the promoter region revealed that an inverted CCAAT box (−81 bp from transcription start site) is required for promoter activity. Mutation of the CCAAT box completely abolished UV irradiation regulation of the TβRII promoter. Protein‐binding assay, as determined by electrophoretic mobility‐shift assays (EMSAs) using the inverted CCAAT box as probe (−100/−62), demonstrated significantly enhanced protein binding in response to UV irradiation. Super shift experiments indicated that nuclear factor Y (NFY) is able to binding to this sequence, but NFY binding was not altered in response to UV irradiation, indicating additional protein(s) are capable of binding this sequence in response to UV irradiation. Taken together, these data indicate that UV irradiation reduces TβRII expression, at least partially, through transcriptional repression. This repression is mediated by a 38‐bp sequence in TβRII promoter, in human skin fibroblasts.
The possible involvement of skin dryness on alterations of the dermal matrix
Authors: Yokota Mariko , Shimizu Kenji , Kyotani Daiki , Yahagi Shoichi , Hashimoto Satoru , Masaki Hitoshi
Published: September 2014

Moisturization of the skin plays an important role in maintaining skin homeostasis. Although it is understood that skin dryness initiates the formation of fine wrinkles, there are few objective reports to support that understanding. The purpose of this study was to establish an in vitro dry epidermal model using reconstructed human epidermal equivalents (RHEEs) and to elucidate the relationship between skin dryness and alterations of the dermal matrix which is one of the causes for the formation of wrinkles. An in vitro dry epidermal model was prepared by loading a CaCl2‐filled ampoule on the surface of an RHEE. To evaluate whether the in vitro model reproduced the characteristics of in vivo skin dryness, histological studies and biological assays using a protein array were carried out. Histologically, a distinct fluorescence which originated from carbonylated protein was observed in the stratum corneum. In addition, conditioned medium from RHEEs cultured under dry conditions for 24 h revealed the secretion of several proteins, such as IL‐1α, IL‐1ra, IL‐8, MMP‐9, VEGF, M‐CSF and IGFBP‐2 and IGFBP‐3, galectin‐1, Cys‐C, FGF‐6, OPG, Glc and TSP4 compared with normal RHEEs. It has been reported that an increase in IL‐1α and the accumulation of carbonylated proteins are observed in the intact stratum corneum in the low humidity winter season. Thus, the in vitro dry epidermal model expresses the features of in vivo skin dryness observed in the winter season. Furthermore, the conditioned medium from RHEEs cultured under dry conditions enhanced MMP‐1 secretion by normal human dermal fibroblasts. Taken together, we propose the hypothesis that skin dryness contributes to alterations of the dermal matrix through the elevation of MMP‐1 secretion.
Orange peel extract, containing high levels of polymethoxyflavonoid, suppressed UVB‐induced COX‐2 expression and PGE2 production in HaCaT cells through PPAR‐γ activation
Authors: Yoshizaki Norihiro , Fujii Takahiro , Masaki Hitoshi , Okubo Takeshi , Shimada Kunio , Hashizume Ron
Published: September 2014

Ultraviolet light (UV) induces an inflammatory response in the skin by cyclooxygenase (COX)‐2 expression and prostaglandin (PG) E2 production. Citrus peel has been used as a natural medicine. It contains polymethoxyflavonoids (PMFs) as a major ingredient, which have anti‐inflammatory activity. We obtained orange peel extract containing high levels of PMFs. The extract suppressed UVB‐induced COX‐2 expression and PGE2 production in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, it was found that this extract acted as a peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor (PPAR)‐γ agonist. The suppression of UVB‐induced COX‐2 expression by this extract was inhibited by GW 9662 and T0070907, which are both PPAR‐γ antagonists. It is therefore suggested that orange peel extract, containing high levels of PMFs, suppresses UVB‐induced COX‐2 expression and PGE2 production through PPAR‐γ. Hence, these extracts could provide useful protection against or alleviation of UV damage.
Anti‐photoaging capability of antioxidant extract from Camellia japonica leaf
Authors: Mizutani Taeko , Masaki Hitoshi
Published: September 2014

It is well known that the Camellia japonica leaf exhibits antioxidant activity because of its high content of polyphenolic compounds. Thus, the extract prepared from mature leaves of C. japonica (CJML) has been widely used as an anti‐ageing material in foods and cosmetics. Concerning the process of growing C. japonica, it is expected that the extract from green leaves (CJGL) has superior effects compared with that from mature leaves. However, there are few reports that discuss the difference between green and mature leaves. In this study, both CJML and CJGL were extracted with 50% 1,3‐butylene glycol (1,3‐BG) and used for investigations. In a chemical examination, we compared both extracts in terms of scavenging activities against hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and hydroxyl radicals. CJGL exhibited higher scavenging activities against both types of ROSs compared with CJML. In addition, CJGL reduced the carbonylation of tape‐stripped stratum corneum (SC) after UVB irradiation. In a biological study, the intra‐cellular ROS level of HaCaT keratinocytes precultured with CJGL for 24 h was significantly lower than that of the control cells. Furthermore, cell damage induced by H2O2 exposure was attenuated by 24 h precultivation with CJGL but not by 2 h precultivation. The results of examinations indicate that CJGL possess properties that reduce oxidative stress. In addition, the result of 2 h precultivation with CJGL suggests that CJGL might affect the status of intra‐cellular antioxidants.
NH4 : NO3 nutrition influence on biomass productivity and root respiration of poplar and willow clones
Authors: Rewald Boris , Kunze Martin E. , Godbold Douglas L.
Published: September 2014

Nitrogen fertilization often improves the yield of intensively managed, short‐rotation coppices. However, information of N nutrition form on the growth of common species and clones used for biomass production is limited. Thus, this study aims at evaluating N form effects on the growth of two Salicaceae clones. Cuttings of the poplar clone Max 4 (Populus maximovizcii × P. nigra) and the willow clone Inger (Salix triandra × S. viminialis) were fertilized in a pot experiment with four ratios of nitrate (NO3−) to ammonium (50%, 62.5%, 75% and 87.5% NO3− balanced with ammonium (NH4+) to constant total N) for one growing season and under stable soil pH. Plants were harvested for analysis of biomass and morphology of leaves, stem and roots. Respiration of fine and coarse roots (RR) was determined and related to biomass growth. Salix cv. Inger accumulated more total dry matter than Populus cv. Max 4. In both Salicaceae clones, the total biomass was significantly influenced by the nitrate ratio and greatest in plants fertilized with 50% NO3− of the total N supply. Both clones possess a different leaf and root morphology, but no significant influence of the NO3− ratio on the morphology was found. Fine RR rates differed significantly between clones, with significantly greater fine RR in Max 4; 87.5% NO3− fertilization increased the fine RR. Fine RR and total accumulated plant biomass were closely related. Our study is the first to show the tremendous influence of fine root respiration, especially including the carbon‐intensive reduction of NO3− to NH4+, on the aboveground growth of Salicaceae clones. Ways to improve yield in SRC are thus to lower the assimilate consumption by fine roots and to match fertilization regimes to the used clones or vice versa.
Ecological Inference and Spatial Variation of Individual Behavior: National Divide and Elections inCatalonia
Authors: Puig Xavier , Ginebra Josep
Published: September 2014

When in geography one reconstructs individual behavior starting from aggregated data through ecological inference, a crucial aspect is the spatial variation of individual behavior. Basic ecological inference methods treat areas as if they were all exchangeable, which in geographical applications is questionable due to the existence of contextual effects that relate to area location and induce spatial dependence. Here that assumption is avoided by basing ecological inference on a model that simultaneously does a cluster analysis, grouping together areas with similar individual behavior, and an ecological inference analysis in each cluster, estimating the individual behavior in the areas of each group. That allows one to capture most of the spatial dependence and summarize the individual behavior at a local level through the behavior estimated for each cluster. This approach is used to investigate vote switching inCatalonia, where voters split across a national allegiance divide on top of the ideological divide. That leads toCatalans having a lot of options to choose from, and to them voting differently depending on whether the election is for theCatalan parliament or for theSpanish parliament. To investigate that, the results in the two most recent pairs of such elections are analyzed by simultaneously clustering areas based on the similarity of their vote and vote switch patterns, and estimating one vote switch pattern for each cluster. As a result,Catalonia is partitioned into four clusters that have a strong spatial structure, with all the areas in the same cluster having similar demographic composition. The estimated vote switch patterns are quite different across clusters but very similar across pairs of elections, and they help assess how the differential voter turnout and the strategic dual vote effects vary in space.
Using Space Syntax to Model Pedestrian Movement in Urban Transportation Planning
Authors: Lerman Yoav , Rofè Yodan , Omer Itzhak
Published: September 2014

Transportation planning is changing. What used to be a concern with motorized vehicles only is evolving into a discipline dealing with multimodal systems where priority is given to transit and nonmotorized means of transport, chief among them being walking. The city of Bat Yam in Israel has chosen to pioneer planning for pedestrians as an integral component of its transportation master plan. This article presents a novel use of pedestrian movement modeling within urban transportation planning, by means of pedestrian movement volume prediction maps for the city, both at its current state today and at its future state planned for the year 2030. The study shows that a pedestrian movement distribution can be explained mainly by the spatial variables that represent properties of a street network. Changes to this network structure are relatively rare, and, therefore, pedestrian movement will not change in a fundamental way in the future. Furthermore, by overlaying the models for pedestrian movement and motorized traffic, as well as the underlying public transit and bicycle networks, focus can be on those streets and places where conflicts among the various road users (i.e., pedestrians, bicycles, transit vehicles, and private cars) are expected.
Changes in hot spring temperature and hydrogeology of the Alpine Fault hanging wall, New Zealand, induced by distal South Island earthquakes
Authors: Cox S. C. , Menzies C. D. , Sutherland R. , Denys P. H. , Chamberlain C. , Teagle D. A. H.
Published: September 2014

Thermal springs in the Southern Alps, New Zealand, originate through penetration of fluids into a thermal anomaly generated by rapid uplift and exhumation on the Alpine Fault. Copland hot spring (43.629S, 169.946E) is one of the most vigorously flowing, hottest of the springs, discharging strongly effervescent CO2‐rich 56–58°C water at 6 ± 1 l sec−1. Shaking from the Mw7.8 Dusky Sound (Fiordland) 2009 and Mw7.1 Darfield (Canterbury) 2010 earthquakes, 350 and 180 km from the spring, respectively, resulted in a characteristic approximately 1°C delayed cooling over 5 days. A decrease in conductivity and increase in pH were measured following the Mw7.1 Darfield earthquake. Earthquake‐induced decreases in Cl, Li, B, Na, K, Sr and Ba concentrations and an increase in SO4 concentration reflect higher proportions of shallow‐circulating meteoric fluid mixing in the subsurface. Shaking at amplitudes of approximately 0.5% g Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA) and/or 0.05–0.10 MPa dynamic stress influences Copland hot spring temperature, which did not respond during the Mw6.3 Christchurch 2011 aftershock or other minor earthquakes. Such thresholds should be exceeded every 1–10 years in the central Southern Alps. The characteristic cooling response at low shaking intensities (MM III–IV) and seismic energy densities (approximately 10−1 J m−3) from intermediate‐field distances was independent of variations in spectral frequency, without the need for post‐seismic recovery. Observed temperature and fluid chemistry responses are inferred to reflect subtle changes in the fracture permeability of schist mountains adjacent to the spring. Permanent 10−7–10−6 strains recorded by cGPS reflect opening or generation of fractures, allowing greater quantities of relatively cool near‐surface groundwater to mix with upwelling hot water. Active deformation, tectonic and topographic stress in the Alpine Fault hanging wall, where orographic rainfall, uplift and erosion are extreme, make the Southern Alps hydrothermal system particularly susceptible to earthquake‐induced transient permeability.