bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sample holder for axial rotation of specimens in 3D microscopy
Authors: BRUNS T. , SCHICKINGER S. , SCHNECKENBURGER H.
Published: May 2015

In common light microscopy, observation of samples is only possible from one perspective. However, especially for larger three‐dimensional specimens observation from different views is desirable. Therefore, we are presenting a sample holder permitting rotation of the specimen around an axis perpendicular to the light path of the microscope. Thus, images can be put into a defined multidimensional context, enabling reliable three‐dimensional reconstructions. The device can be easily adapted to a great variety of common light microscopes and is suitable for various applications in science, education and industry, where the observation of three‐dimensional specimens is essential. Fluorescence z‐projection images of copepods and ixodidae ticks at different rotation angles obtained by confocal laser scanning microscopy and light sheet fluorescence microscopy are reported as representative results.
Decline in arylsulfatase B and Increase in chondroitin 4‐sulfotransferase combine to increase chondroitin 4‐sulfate in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Bhattacharyya Sumit , Zhang Xiaolu , Feferman Leo , Johnson David , Tortella Frank C. , Guizzetti Marina , Tobacman Joanne K.
Published: May 2015

In an established rat model of penetrating ballistic‐like brain injury (PBBI), arylsulfatase B (ARSB; N‐acetylgalactosamine 4‐sulfatase) activity was significantly reduced at the ipsilateral site of injury, but unaffected at the contralateral site or in sham controls. In addition, the ARSB substrate chondroitin 4‐sulfate (C4S) and total sulfated glycosaminoglycans increased. The mRNA expression of chondroitin 4‐sulfotransferase 1 (C4ST1; CHST11) and the sulfotransferase activity rose at the ipsilateral site of injury (PBBI‐I), indicating contributions from both increased production and reduced degradation to the accumulation of C4S. In cultured, fetal rat astrocytes, following scratch injury, the ARSB activity declined and the nuclear hypoxia inducible factor‐1α increased significantly. In contrast, sulfotransferase activity and chondroitin 4‐sulfotransferase expression increased following astrocyte exposure to TGF‐β1, but not following scratch. These different pathways by which C4S increased in the cell preparations were both evident in the response to injury in the PBBI‐I model. Hence, findings support effects of injury because of mechanical disruption inhibiting ARSB and to chemical mediation by TGF‐β1 increasing CHST11 expression and sulfotransferase activity. The increase in C4S following traumatic brain injury is because of contributions from impaired degradation and enhanced synthesis of C4S which combine in the pathogenesis of the glial scar.

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This is the first report of how two mechanisms contribute to the increase in chondroitin 4‐sulfate (C4S) in TBI. Following penetrating ballistic‐like brain injury in a rat model and in the scratch model of injury in fetal rat astrocytes, Arylsulfatase B activity declined, leading to accumulation of C4S. TGF‐β1 exposure increased expression of chondroitin 4‐sulfotransferase. Hence, the increase in C4S in TBI is attributable to both impaired degradation and enhanced synthesis, combining in the pathogenesis of the glial scar.
Effects of lisdexamfetamine alone and in combination with s‐citalopram on acetylcholine and histamine efflux in the rat pre‐frontal cortex and ventral hippocampus
Authors: Hutson Peter H. , Heins Mariette S. , Folgering Joost H.A.
Published: May 2015

Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by poor attention, impulse control and hyperactivity. A significant proportion of ADHD patients are also co‐morbid for other psychiatric problems including mood disorders and these patients may be managed with a combination of psychostimulants and anti‐depressants. While it is generally accepted that enhanced catecholamine signalling via the action of psychostimulants is likely responsible for the cognitive improvement in ADHD, other neurotransmitters including acetylcholine and histamine may be involved. In the present study, we have examined the effect of lisdexamfetamine dimesylate (LDX), an amphetamine pro‐drug that is approved for the treatment of ADHD on acetylcholine and histamine efflux in pre‐frontal cortex and hippocampus alone and in combination with the anti‐depressant s‐citalopram. LDX increased cortical acetylcholine efflux, an effect that was not significantly altered by co‐administration of s‐citalopram. Cortical and hippocampal histamine were markedly increased by LDX, an effect that was attenuated in the hippocampus but not in pre‐frontal cortex when co‐administered with s‐citalopram. Taken together, these results suggest that efflux of acetylcholine and histamine may be involved in the therapeutic effects of LDX and are differentially influenced by the co‐administration of s‐citalopram.

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Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is characterized by poor attention, impulse control and hyperactivity. Some ADHD patients are also co‐morbid for mood disorders and may be managed with psychostimulants (e.g. lisdexamfetamine, LDX) and anti‐depressants (e.g. s‐citalopram). LDX increased the efflux of acetylcholine and histamine, neurotransmitters involved in cognitive function, which were differentially influenced when co‐administered with s‐citalopram. Acetylcholine and histamine may be involved in the therapeutic effects of LDX and are differentially affected by the co‐administration of s‐citalopram.
Somatostatin Agonist Pasireotide Promotes a Physiological State Resembling Short‐Day Acclimation in the Photoperiodic Male Siberian Hamster (Phodopus sungorus)
Authors: Dumbell R. A. , Scherbarth F. , Diedrich V. , Schmid H. A. , Steinlechner S. , Barrett P.
Published: May 2015

The timing of growth in seasonal mammals is inextricably linked to food availability. This is exemplified in the Siberian hamster (Phodopus sungorus), which uses the annual cycle of photoperiod to optimally programme energy expenditure in anticipation of seasonal fluctuations in food resources. During the autumn, energy expenditure is progressively minimised by physiological adaptations, including a 30% reduction in body mass, comprising a reduction in both fat and lean tissues. However, the mechanistic basis of this adaptation is still unexplained. We hypothesised that growth hormone (GH) was a likely candidate to underpin these reversible changes in body mass. Administration of pasireotide, a long‐acting somatostatin receptor agonist developed for the treatment of acromegaly, to male hamsters under a long‐day (LD) photoperiod produced a body weight loss. This comprised a reduction in lean and fat mass, including kidneys, testes and brown adipose tissue, typically found in short‐day (SD) housed hamsters. Furthermore, when administered to hamsters switched from SD to LD, pasireotide retarded the body weight increase compared to vehicle‐treated hamsters. Pasireotide did not alter photoperiod‐mediated changes in hypothalamic energy balance gene expression but altered the expression of Srif mRNA expression in the periventricular nucleus and Ghrh mRNA expression in the arcuate nucleus consistent with a reduction in GH feedback and concurrent with reduced serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1. Conversely, GH treatment of SD hamsters increased body mass, which included increased mass of liver and kidneys. Together, these data indicate a role for the GH axis in the determination of seasonal body mass of the Siberian hamster.
Fluorescent Visualisation of Oxytocin in the Hypothalamo‐neurohypophysial/‐spinal Pathways After Chronic Inflammation in Oxytocin‐Monomeric Red Fluorescent Protein 1 Transgenic Rats
Authors: Matsuura T. , Kawasaki M. , Hashimoto H. , Ishikura T. , Yoshimura M. , Ohkubo J.‐I. , Maruyama T. , Motojima Y. , Sabanai K. , Mori T. , Ohnishi H. , Sakai A. , Ueta Y.
Published: May 2015

Oxytocin (OXT) is a well‐known neurohypophysial hormone that is synthesised in the paraventricular (PVN) and supraoptic nuclei (SON) of the hypothalamus. The projection of magnocellular neurosecretory cells, which synthesise OXT and arginine vasopressin in the PVN and SON, to the posterior pituitary plays an essential role in mammalian labour and lactation through its peripheral action. However, previous studies have shown that parvocellular OXTergic cells in the PVN, which project to the medulla and spinal cord, are involved in various physiological functions (e.g. sensory modulation and autonomic). In the present study, we examined OXT expression in the PVN, SON and spinal cord after chronic inflammation from adjuvant arthritis (AA). We used transgenic rats that express OXT and the monomeric red fluorescent protein 1 (mRFP1) fusion gene to visualise both the magnocellular and parvocellular OXTergic pathways. OXT‐mRFP1 fluorescence intensity was significantly increased in the PVN, SON, dorsal horn of the spinal cord and posterior pituitary in AA rats. The levels of OXT‐mRFP1 mRNA were significantly increased in the PVN and SON of AA rats. These results suggested that OXT was up‐regulated in both hypothalamic magnocellular neurosecretory cells and parvocellular cells by chronic inflammation, and also that OXT in the PVN‐spinal pathway may be involved in sensory modulation. OXT‐mRFP1 transgenic rats are a very useful model for visualising the OXTergic pathways from vesicles in a single cell to terminals in in vitro preparations.
Impact of Healthcare Information Technology on Nursing Practice
Authors: Piscotty Ronald J. , Kalisch Beatrice , Gracey‐Thomas Angel
Published: May 2015

Purpose

To report additional mediation findings from a descriptive cross sectional study to examine if nurses’ perceptions of the impact of healthcare information technology on their practice mediates the relationship between electronic nursing care reminder use and missed nursing care.

Design

The study used a descriptive design. The sample (N = 165) was composed of registered nurses working on acute care hospital units. The sample was obtained from a large teaching hospital in Southeast Michigan in the fall of 2012. All eligible nursing units (n = 19) were included.

Methods

The MISSCARE Survey, Nursing Care Reminders Usage Survey, and the Impact of Healthcare Information Technology Scale were used to collect data to test for mediation. Mediation was tested using the method described by Baron and Kenny. Multiple regression equations were used to analyze the data to determine if mediation occurred between the variables.

Findings

Missed nursing care, the outcome variable, was regressed on the predictor variable, reminder usage, and the mediator variable impact of technology on nursing practice. The impact of healthcare information technology (IHIT) on nursing practice negatively affected missed nursing care (t = ‐4.12, p < .001), explaining 9.8% of variance in missed nursing care. With IHIT present, the predictor (reminder usage) was no longer significant (t = ‐.70, p = .48). Thus, the reduced direct association between reminder usage and missed nursing care when IHIT was in the model supported the hypothesis that IHIT was at least one of the mediators in the relationship between reminder usage and missed nursing care.

Conclusions

The perceptions of the impact of healthcare information technology mediates the relationship between nursing care reminder use and missed nursing care. The findings are beneficial to the advancement of healthcare technology in that designers of healthcare information technology systems need to keep in mind that perceptions regarding impacts of the technology will influence usage.

Clinical Relevance

Many times, information technology systems are not designed to match the workflow of nurses. Systems built with redundant or impertinent reminders may be ignored. System designers must study which reminders nurses find most useful and which reminders result in the best quality outcomes.
Prenatal diagnosis and findings of tetrasomy 9p
Authors: Lazebnik Noam , Cohen Leslie
Published: May 2015

Tetrasomy 9p is a rare condition initially reported by Ghymers et al. Reported cases are a mix of prenatal and neonatal/pediatric cases in non‐mosaic and mosaic cases. We report on the common mechanism leading to this form of chromosome abnormality, the various types of tetrasomy 9p as well as the prenatal sonographic and laboratory presentation of our case and previously reported cases with mosaic and non‐mosaic tetrasomy 9p. From these reported cases, a recognizable syndrome is emerging. Multiple fetal abnormalities amenable to ultrasound diagnosis are likely to be present. However, neither ultrasound study alone nor the first‐trimester screen for the common aneuploidies can suggest the correct diagnosis. Chromosome study of more than a single tissue is necessary in order to establish the correct diagnosis and to differentiate between mosaic and non‐mosaic tetrasomy 9p cases.
Molecular Detection and Pathogenicity Assay of Plasmodiophora brassicae in Chicken Manure
Authors: Huang Rui‐rong , Huang Rong , Hu Jian‐kun , Ho Hon‐hing , He Yue‐qiu
Published: May 2015

To determine the relationship between animal excreta and the occurrence of clubroot disease of cruciferous crops caused by Plasmodiophora brassicae, chickens were fed with resting spores of the pathogen. Their faeces were collected and used to inoculate crucifers. This study proved that both fresh and composted manures could induce clubroot and the presence of the pathogen in the manure was confirmed by PCR amplification. However, composting had detrimental effects on the virulence of the resting spores in the manure. When the temperature was over 32°C, the incidence and severity of clubroot declined with the increase in the exposure time of resting spores to high temperature and the pathogenicity was completely lost when the spores were kept at 48°C for 6 h. The control measures for the clubroot disease were discussed.
Pasireotide for the Medical Management of Feline Hypersomatotropism
Authors: Scudder C.J. , Gostelow R. , Forcada Y. , Schmid H.A. , Church D. , Niessen S.J.M.
Published: May 2015

Background

Feline hypersomatotropism (HST) is a cause of diabetes mellitus in cats. Pasireotide is a novel multireceptor ligand somatostatin analog that improves biochemical control of humans with HST.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Pasireotide improves biochemical control of HST and diabetes mellitus in cats.

Animals

Hypersomatotropism was diagnosed in diabetic cats with serum insulin‐like growth factor‐1 (IGF‐1) concentration >1,000 ng/mL by radioimmunoassay and pituitary enlargement.

Methods

Insulin‐like growth factor 1 was measured and glycemic control assessed using a 12‐hour blood glucose curve on days 1 and 5. On days 2, 3, and 4, cats received 0.03 mg/kg pasireotide SC q12h. IGF‐1, insulin dose, and estimated insulin sensitivity (product of the area under the blood glucose curve [BGC] and insulin dose) were compared pre‐ and post treatment. Paired t‐tests or Wilcoxon signed rank tests were employed for comparison where appropriate; a linear mixed model was created to compare BGC results.

Results

Insulin‐like growth factor 1 decreased in all 12 cats that completed the study (median [range] day 1: 2,000 ng/mL [1,051–2,000] and day 5: 1,105 ng/mL [380–1,727], P = .002, Wilcoxon signed rank test). Insulin dose was lower on day 5 than on day 1 (mean reduction 1.3 [0–2.7] units/kg/injection, P = .003, paired t‐test). The product of insulin dose and area under the BGC was lower on day 5 than day 1 (difference of means: 1,912; SD, 1523; u × mg/dL × hours, P = .001; paired t‐test). No clinically relevant adverse effects were encountered.

Conclusions

Short‐acting pasireotide rapidly decreased IGF‐1 in cats with HST and insulin‐dependent diabetes. The decrease in IGF‐1 was associated with increased insulin sensitivity.
Workplace Job Satisfaction in Britain: Evidence from Linked Employer–Employee Data
Authors: Haile Getinet A.
Published: May 2015

The paper examines the nature of workplace job satisfaction in Britain using an ‘overall’ and domain‐specific job satisfaction outcomes from linked employer–employee data. A measure of aggregate job satisfaction alone might mask domain‐specific differences in satisfaction, something the combined approach in this paper addresses. As well as controlling for a rich set of correlates on employees and their workplaces, the paper deploys alternative empirical models that account for employee‐ and workplace‐level unobserved heterogeneity. The paper reports interesting results on the link between job satisfaction and observed as well as unobserved characteristics of employees and their workplaces.
The Role of Intuitive Approximation Skills for School Math Abilities
Authors: Libertus Melissa E.
Published: May 2015

Research has shown that educated children and adults have access to two ways of representing numerical information: an approximate number system (ANS) that is present from birth and allows for quick approximations of numbers of objects encountered in one's environment, and an exact number system (ENS) that is acquired through experience and instruction, that requires an understanding of language and symbols, and that is at the core of school math abilities. While these two systems are distinct, individual differences in the acuity of the ANS predict later math abilities and advancing the ENS leads to increases in the acuity of the ANS suggesting a reciprocal connection between the two systems. Recently, the focus of the field has turned toward elucidating the mechanisms that underlie this connection, but more work is also needed to understand the sources of individual differences in the ANS and ENS in the first place.
Mind, Brain and Education: A Decade of Evolution
Authors: Schwartz Marc
Published: May 2015

This article examines the evolution of Mind, Brain, and Education (MBE), the field, alongside that of the International Mind, Brain and Education Society (IMBES). The reflections stem mostly from my observations while serving as vice president, president‐elect, and president of IMBES during the past 10 years. The article highlights the evolution during that time about the meaning of MBE and some of the representations that help illustrate the problems and challenges in arriving at a consensus about what MBE means and how IMBES can best serve its members. I explore how IMBES, incorporated in 2004, experimented with a number of different conference models to provide frameworks for thinking about MBE, as well as a structure for supporting collaboration between the disciplines represented in Mind, Brain, and Education. Those models help highlight what IMBES has accomplished in scaffolding the complex conversation unfolding in the field, as well as offering a strategy for a collaborative enterprise that informs practice and new research agendas in the future.
Systemic Seismic Risk Assessment of Road Networks Considering Interactions with the Built Environment
Authors: Argyroudis Sotirios , Selva Jacopo , Gehl Pierre , Pitilakis Kyriazis
Published: May 2015

This article presents an integrated approach for the probabilistic systemic risk analysis of a road network considering spatial seismic hazard with correlation of ground motion intensities, vulnerability of the network components, and the effect of interactions within the network, as well as, between roadway components and built environment to the network functionality. The system performance is evaluated at the system level through a global connectivity performance indicator, which depends on both physical damages to its components and induced functionality losses due to interactions with other systems. An object‐oriented modeling paradigm is used, where the complex problem of several interacting systems is decomposed in a number of interacting objects, accounting for intra‐ and interdependencies between and within systems. Each system is specified with its components, solving algorithms, performance indicators and interactions with other systems. The proposed approach is implemented for the analysis of the road network in the city of Thessaloniki (Greece) to demonstrate its applicability. In particular, the risk for the road network in the area is calculated, specifically focusing on the short‐term impact of seismic events (just after the earthquake). The potential of road blockages due to collapses of adjacent buildings and overpass bridges is analyzed, trying to individuate possible criticalities related to specific components/subsystems. The application can be extended based on the proposed approach, to account for other interactions such as failure of pipelines beneath the road segments, collapse of adjacent electric poles, or malfunction of lighting and signaling systems due to damage in the electric power network.
Cross‐species chimeras reveal BamA POTRA and β‐barrel domains must be fine‐tuned for efficient OMP insertion
Authors: Browning Douglas F. , Bavro Vassiliy N. , Mason Jessica L. , Sevastsyanovich Yanina R. , Rossiter Amanda E. , Jeeves Mark , Wells Timothy J. , Knowles Timothy J. , Cunningham Adam F. , Donald James W. , Palmer Tracy , Overduin Michael , Henderson Ian R.
Published: May 2015

BAM is a conserved molecular machine, the central component of which is BamA. Orthologues of BamA are found in all Gram‐negative bacteria, chloroplasts and mitochondria where it is required for the folding and insertion of β‐barrel containing integral outer membrane proteins (OMPs) into the outer membrane. BamA binds unfolded β‐barrel precursors via the five polypeptide transport‐associated (POTRA) domains at its N‐terminus. The C‐terminus of BamA folds into a β‐barrel domain, which tethers BamA to the outer membrane and is involved in OMP insertion. BamA orthologues are found in all Gram‐negative bacteria and appear to function in a species‐specific manner. Here we investigate the nature of this species‐specificity by examining whether chimeric Escherichia coli BamA fusion proteins, carrying either the β‐barrel or POTRA domains from various BamA orthologues, can functionally replace E. coli BamA. We demonstrate that the β‐barrel domains of many BamA orthologues are functionally interchangeable. We show that defects in the orthologous POTRA domains can be rescued by compensatory mutations within the β‐barrel. These data reveal that the POTRA and barrel domains must be precisely aligned to ensure efficient OMP insertion.
Immunohistochemical expression of cyclin D1 is higher in supratentorial ependymomas and predicts relapses in gross total resection cases
Authors: de Andrade Fernanda Gonçalves , Marie Suely Kazue Nagahashi , Uno Miyuki , Matushita Hamilton , Taricco Mario Augusto , Teixeira Manoel Jacobsen , Rosemberg Sergio , Oba‐Shinjo Sueli Mieko
Published: May 2015

Ependymomas are tumors of the CNS. Although cyclin D1 overexpression has been related to several cancers, its prognostic value in ependymomas has not yet been fully established. We evaluated cyclin D1 expression by an immunohistochemistry analysis of 149 samples of ependymomas, including some relapses, corresponding to 121 patients. Eighty‐one patients were adults, 60 were intracranial cases and 92 tumors were grade II. Gross total resection (GTR) was achieved in 62% of cases, and relapse was confirmed in 41.4% of cases. Cyclin D1 protein expression was analyzed by immunohistochemistry and scored with a labeling index (LI) calculated as the percentage of positively stained cells by intensity. We also analyzed expression of CCND1 and NOTCH1 in 33 samples of ependymoma by quantitative real‐time PCR. A correlation between cyclin D1 LI score and anaplastic cases (P < 0.001), supratentorial location (P < 0.001) and age (P = 0.001) were observed. A stratified analysis demonstrated that cyclin D1 protein expression was strong in tumors with a supratentorial location, independent of the histological grade or age. Relapse was more frequent in cases with a higher cyclin D1 LI score (P = 0.046), and correlation with progression‐free survival was observed in cases with GTR (P = 0.002). Only spinal canal tumor location and GTR were suggestive markers of PFS in multivarite analyses. Higher expression levels were observed in anaplastic cases for CCND1 (P = 0.002), in supratentorial cases for CCND1 (P = 0.008) and NOTCH1 (P = 0.011). There were correlations between the cyclin D1 mRNA and protein expression levels (P < 0.0001) and between CCND1 and NOTCH1 expression levels (P = 0.003). Higher cyclin D1 LI was predominant in supratentorial location and predict relapse in GTR cases. Cyclin D1 could be used as an immunohistochemical marker to guide follow‐up and treatment in these cases.
Immunohistochemical profiles of IDH1, MGMT and P53: Practical significance for prognostication of patients with diffuse gliomas
Authors: Ogura Ryosuke , Tsukamoto Yoshihiro , Natsumeda Manabu , Isogawa Mizuho , Aoki Hiroshi , Kobayashi Tsutomu , Yoshida Seiichi , Okamoto Kouichiro , Takahashi Hitoshi , Fujii Yukihiko , Kakita Akiyoshi
Published: May 2015

Genetic and epigenetic status, including mutations of isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH) and TP53 and methylation of O6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT), are associated with the development of various types of glioma and are useful for prognostication. Here, using routinely available histology sections from 312 patients with diffuse gliomas, we performed immunohistochemistry using antibodies specific for IDH1 mutation, MGMT methylation status, and aberrant p53 expression to evaluate the possible prognostic significance of these features. With regard to overall survival (OS), univariate analysis indicated that an IDH1‐positive profile in patients with glioblastoma (GBM), anaplastic astrocytoma (AA), anaplastic oligoastrocytoma and oligodendroglioma, or a MGMT‐negative profile in patients with GBM and AA were significantly associated with a favorable outcome. Multivariate analysis revealed that both profiles were independent factors influencing prognosis. The OS of patients with IDH1‐positive/MGMT‐negative profiles was significantly longer than that of patients with negative/negative and negative/positive profiles. A p53 profile was not an independent prognostic factor. However, for GBM/AA patients with IDH1‐negative/MGMT‐negative profiles, p53 overexpression was significantly associated with an unfavorable outcome. Thus, the immunohistochemical profiles of IDH1 and MGMT are of considerable significance in gliomas, and a combination of IDH1, MGMT and p53 profiles may be useful for prognostication of GBM/AA.
How can nurses support relatives of a dying patient with the organ donation option?
Authors: Mills Leanne , Koulouglioti Christina
Published: May 2015

Background

The UK Department of Health in 2008 established the Organ Donation Taskforce to improve organ donation within the UK. Knowing how nurses can best support families during this time is important to maintain best practice.

Aims

The purpose of the literature review was to summarise evidence related to nursing support for a dying patient's family with the option of organ donation.

Search strategy

The (a) Allied Medical Education Database (AMED), (b) British Nursing Index (BNI), (c) Cochrane Library, (d) Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL), (e) NHS Evidence, and (f) PubMed were searched during January to May 2013 using the key words: organ donation, nurse, support, organ donor, family. A total of 23 articles were critiqued to synthesise available evidence over 25 years.

Inclusion and exclusion criteria

Primary sources addressing deceased organ donors, their families and nurses, written in English, in peer reviewed journals over the last 25 years and conducted internationally were included. Articles related to consent, attitudes towards donation and physicians' views were excluded.

Findings

Two major themes emerged: (a) clarity of communication and understanding of information and (b) the nurse's competency.

Conclusions

This study adds to the topic by addressing support needed by a family. Correct information given to a family clearly, sensitively and in a professional manner can accommodate relatives' understanding why their loved one is in a critical condition, which can help them accept death and therefore consider the option of organ donation. Nurses must acquire through regular training specific skills and knowledge in order to practice efficiently and adhere to the needs of a dying patient's family.

Relevance to clinical practice

By incorporating organ donation as a norm in end‐of‐life care, bereavement needs can be addressed in addition to improving organ donation rates.
A shared language regarding sedation and delirium in critically ill patients
Authors: Svenningsen Helle
Published: May 2015

Background

Patients in intensive care units who develop delirium, experience longer stay in intensive care as well as increased morbidity and mortality. A questionnaire in 2009 showed that there was no consensus in Denmark regarding the tools to be used to assess sedation or delirium, the patient groups they should be used in, or the frequency of assessment.

Aims

The aims of this survey were to describe clinical practice regarding the assessment of sedation and delirium in intensive care patients and to compare the results with those obtained in 2009.

Method

A questionnaire was sent via e‐mail to all intensive care units in Denmark caring for ventilated adult patients. An intensive care nurse with daily patient contact was asked to answer questions about the unit's practice regarding the tools used to assess sedation and delirium in adult patients.

Results

In all, 98% of the intensive care units responded. Richmond Agitation‐Sedation Scale was the most used tool for sedation assessment, and Confusion Assessment Method for the Intensive Care Unit was used only for delirium assessment.

Conclusion

A shared language for sedation and delirium assessment was identified as essential in supporting care delivery.

Relevance to clinical practice

A systematic use of a shared language according to sedation and delirium in intensive care units can minimize mistakes in transfer of patients and minimize the risk of doubly traumatising patients.
COMPONENT ALLEE EFFECTS AND STAGE‐SPECIFIC PREDATION: A BRIEF INSIGHT INTO CONSERVATION AND BIOLOGICAL CONTROL ISSUES
Authors: DA S. COSTA MICHEL ISKIN , DOS ANJOS LUCAS
Published: May 2015

In this paper, we propose a two‐stage structured population model subject to component Allee effects in fecundity and maturation, and with two disturbances (predation only and harvest and predation) acting on both stages. It is shown that this combination leads to a demographic Allee effect—a characteristic that could be exploited in pest biological control, but on the other hand, it represents a bane in conservation biology. The analysis is performed for disturbances with functional responses type 2 and 3, and the models show that they yield qualitatively similar results. This characteristic is discussed from the species conservation and biological control point of view, together with possible extensions of this work.
Exploring human brain lateralization with molecular genetics and genomics
Authors: Francks Clyde
Published: May 2015

Lateralizations of brain structure and motor behavior have been observed in humans as early as the first trimester of gestation, and are likely to arise from asymmetrical genetic–developmental programs, as in other animals. Studies of gene expression levels in postmortem tissue samples, comparing the left and right sides of the human cerebral cortex, have generally not revealed striking transcriptional differences between the hemispheres. This is likely due to lateralization of gene expression being subtle and quantitative. However, a recent re‐analysis and meta‐analysis of gene expression data from the adult superior temporal and auditory cortex found lateralization of transcription of genes involved in synaptic transmission and neuronal electrophysiology. Meanwhile, human subcortical mid‐ and hindbrain structures have not been well studied in relation to lateralization of gene activity, despite being potentially important developmental origins of asymmetry. Genetic polymorphisms with small effects on adult brain and behavioral asymmetries are beginning to be identified through studies of large datasets, but the core genetic mechanisms of lateralized human brain development remain unknown. Identifying subtly lateralized genetic networks in the brain will lead to a new understanding of how neuronal circuits on the left and right are differently fine‐tuned to preferentially support particular cognitive and behavioral functions.
A meta‐analysis of active video games on health outcomes among children and adolescents
Authors: Gao Z. , Chen S. , Pasco D. , Pope Z.
Published: May 2015

This meta‐analysis synthesizes current literature concerning the effects of active video games (AVGs) on children/adolescents’ health‐related outcomes. A total of 512 published studies on AVGs were located, and 35 articles were included based on the following criteria: (i) data‐based research articles published in English between 1985 and 2015; (ii) studied some types of AVGs and related outcomes among children/adolescents and (iii) had at least one comparison within each study. Data were extracted to conduct comparisons for outcome measures in three separate categories: AVGs and sedentary behaviours, AVGs and laboratory‐based exercise, and AVGs and field‐based physical activity. Effect size for each entry was calculated with the Comprehensive Meta‐Analysis software in 2015. Mean effect size (Hedge's g) and standard deviation were calculated for each comparison. Compared with sedentary behaviours, AVGs had a large effect on health outcomes. The effect sizes for physiological outcomes were marginal when comparing AVGs with laboratory‐based exercises. The comparison between AVGs and field‐based physical activity had null to moderate effect sizes. AVGs could yield equivalent health benefits to children/adolescents as laboratory‐based exercise or field‐based physical activity. Therefore, AVGs can be a good alternative for sedentary behaviour and addition to traditional physical activity and sports in children/adolescents.
CCN2/CTGF expression via cellular uptake of BMP‐1 is associated with reparative dentinogenesis
Authors: Muromachi K , Kamio N , Matsuki‐Fukushima M , Nishimura H , Tani‐Ishii N , Sugiya H , Matsushima K
Published: May 2015

Objective

CCN family member 2/connective tissue growth factor (CCN2/CTGF) is known as an osteogenesis‐related molecule and is thought to be implicated in tooth growth. Bone morphogenetic protein‐1 (BMP‐1) contributes to tooth development by the degradation of dentin‐specific substrates as a metalloprotease. In this study, we demonstrated the correlations between CCN2/CTGF and BMP‐1 in human carious teeth and the subcellular dynamics of BMP‐1 in human dental pulp cells.

Materials and Methods

Expression of CCN2/CTGF and BMP‐1 in human carious teeth was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. BMP‐1‐induced CCN2/CTGF protein expression in primary cultures of human dental pulp cells was observed by immunoblotting. Intracellular dynamics of exogenously administered fluorescence‐labeled BMP‐1 were observed using confocal microscope.

Results

Immunoreactivities for CCN2/CTGF and BMP‐1 were increased in odontoblast‐like cells and reparative dentin‐subjacent dental caries. BMP‐1 induced the expression of CCN2/CTGF independently of protease activity in the cells but not that of dentin sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) or dentin matrix protein‐1 (DMP‐1). Exogenously added BMP‐1 was internalized into the cytoplasm, and the potent dynamin inhibitor dynasore clearly suppressed the BMP‐1‐induced CCN2/CTGF expression in the cells.

Conclusion

CCN2/CTGF and BMP‐1 coexist beneath caries lesion and CCN2/CTGF expression is regulated by dynamin‐related cellular uptake of BMP‐1, which suggests a novel property of metalloprotease in reparative dentinogenesis.
Liver X receptors contribute to periodontal pathogen‐elicited inflammation and oral bone loss
Authors: Huang N. , Shaik‐Dasthagirisaheb Y.B. , LaValley M.P. , Gibson F.C.
Published: May 2015

Periodontal diseases are chronic oral inflammatory diseases that are polymicrobial in nature. The presence of specific bacteria in subgingival plaque such as Porphyromonas gingivalis is associated with microbial dysbiosis and the modulation of host immune response. Bacterially elicited innate immune activation and inflammation are key elements implicated in the destruction of soft and hard tissues supporting the teeth. Liver X receptors (LXRs) are nuclear hormone receptors with important function in lipid homeostasis, inflammation, and host response to infection; however, their contribution to chronic inflammatory diseases such as periodontal disease is not understood. The aim of this study was to define the contribution of LXRs in the development of immune response to P. gingivalis and to assess the roles that LXRs play in infection‐elicited oral bone loss. Employing macrophages, we observed that P. gingivalis challenge led to reduced LXRα and LXRβ gene expression compared with that observed with unchallenged wild‐type cells. Myeloid differentiation primary response gene 88 (MyD88)‐independent, Toll/interleukin‐1 receptor‐domain‐containing adapter‐inducing interferon‐β (TRIF)‐dependent signaling affected P. gingivalis‐mediated reduction in LXRα expression, whereas neither pathway influenced the P. gingivalis effect on LXRβ expression. Employing LXR agonist and mice deficient in LXRs, we observed functional effects of LXRs in the development of a P. gingivalis‐elicited cytokine response at the level of the macrophage, and participation of LXRs in P. gingivalis‐elicited oral bone loss. These findings identify novel importance for LXRs in the pathogenesis of P. gingivalis infection‐elicited inflammation and oral bone loss.
Vibronic Structures in Absorption and Fluorescence Spectra of Firefly Oxyluciferin in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Hiyama Miyabi , Noguchi Yoshifumi , Akiyama Hidefumi , Yamada Kenta , Koga Nobuaki
Published: May 2015

To elucidate the factors determining the spectral shapes and widths of the absorption and fluorescence spectra for keto and enol oxyluciferin and their conjugate bases in aqueous solutions, the intensities of vibronic transitions between their ground and first electronic excited states were calculated for the first time via estimation of the vibrational Franck–Condon factors. The major normal modes, overtones and combination tones in absorption and fluorescence spectra are similar for all species. The theoretical full widths at half maximum of absorption spectra are 0.4–0.7 eV and those for the fluorescence spectra are 0.4–0.5 eV, except for phenolate‐keto that exhibits exceptionally sharp peak widths due to the dominance of the 0–0′ or 0′–0 band. These spectral shapes and widths explain many relevant features of the experimentally observed spectra.
Memory, emotion, and pupil diameter: Repetition of natural scenes
Authors: Bradley Margaret M. , Lang Peter J.
Published: May 2015

Recent studies have suggested that pupil diameter, like the “old‐new” ERP, may be a measure of memory. Because the amplitude of the old‐new ERP is enhanced for items encoded in the context of repetitions that are distributed (spaced), compared to massed (contiguous), we investigated whether pupil diameter is similarly sensitive to repetition. Emotional and neutral pictures of natural scenes were viewed once or repeated with massed (contiguous) or distributed (spaced) repetition during incidental free viewing and then tested on an explicit recognition test. Although an old‐new difference in pupil diameter was found during successful recognition, pupil diameter was not enhanced for distributed, compared to massed, repetitions during either recognition or initial free viewing. Moreover, whereas a significant old‐new difference was found for erotic scenes that had been seen only once during encoding, this difference was absent when erotic scenes were repeated. Taken together, the data suggest that pupil diameter is not a straightforward index of prior occurrence for natural scenes.
The Role of Platonism in Augustine's 386 Conversion to Christianity
Authors: Boone Mark J.
Published: May 2015

Augustine′s conversion to Christianity in A.D. 386 is a pivotal moment not only in his own life, but in Christian and world history, for the theology of Augustine set the course of theological and cultural development in the western Christian church. But to what exactly was Augustine converted? Scholars have long debated whether he really converted to Christianity in 386, whether he was a Platonist, and, if he adhered to both Platonism and Christianity, which dominated his thought. The debate of the last thirteen decades spans an immense body of literature in multiple languages. In this literature, four major views on Augustine′s conversion may be discerned. The first view is associated with Gaston Boissier and Adolph von Harnack, and was famously championed by Prosper Alfaric: that Augustine in 386 converted to neo‐Platonism but not to Christianity. Second, there is the view recently promoted by Catherine Conybeare: that Augustine in 386 converted to Christianity and rejected neo‐Platonism. Third, there is the view that he converted to Christianity and was also a neo‐Platonist; the most famous adherents of this view are Robert J. O′Connell and Pierre Courcelle. Finally, there is the view recently promoted by Carol Harrison: that Augustine committed to Christianity in 386, yet did not utterly reject neo‐Platonism; rather, he aimed to develop a Christian faith that was informed by neo‐Platonic insight. In this article, I first explain and distinguish these four general views, and then I explain why I prefer the fourth view.
The Postwar British Extreme Right and Empire, 1945–1967
Authors: Stocker Paul
Published: May 2015

This article examines the relationship between the extreme right and the British Empire during the postwar era. It will first provide a brief review of existing scholarship on the postwar extreme right. It will then go on to argue that scholars have neglected a crucial aspect of the extreme right in postwar Britain – its relationship with imperialism and more specifically, decolonisation – before offering a short overview of extreme right attitudes to Empire during the period in question. The two organisations which will be analysed are Sir Oswald Mosley's Union Movement and the League of Empire Loyalists, led by A.K. Chesterton. The Union Movement sought to break with Britain's imperial past whilst simultaneously promoting a new imperial vision which wanted to see European colonial powers pool their imperial resources in order to match Soviet and US power. The League of Empire Loyalists however sought to promote the conservative tradition of revering the British Empire during its final days and wanted Britain to re‐assert control over their imperial possessions. Crucial to both organisations' imperial visions was conspiracy theory, namely, the idea of a global Jewish conspiracy which was seeking to undermine the British Empire. The article will conclude by demonstrating that there is ample opportunity for future study into the relationship between the postwar extreme right and Empire.
Separate and combined effects of dehydration and thirst sensation on exercise performance in the heat
Authors: Cheung S. S. , McGarr G. W. , Mallette M. M. , Wallace P. J. , Watson C. L. , Kim I. M. , Greenway M. J.
Published: May 2015

Using intravenous infusion, we separated the physiologic consequences of 3% body mass dehydration from the conscious awareness of fluid replacement on time trial (TT) performance in the heat. Eleven trained cyclists performed 90 min of steady‐state (50% ) cycling followed by a self‐paced 20‐km TT in a hot–dry (35 °C, 10% relative humidity, wind speed 3.0 m/s) environment while euhydrated‐not thirsty (EU‐NT), euhydrated‐thirsty (EU‐T), dehydrated‐not thirsty (DH‐NT), or dehydrated‐thirsty (DH‐T). Thirst was manipulated by providing (NT) or withholding (T) ad libitum 35 °C water oral rinse. Distinct hydration states existed, with 0.4 ± 0.5% dehydration following the 20‐km TT (EU) compared with 3.2 ± 0.6% in DH (P < 0.001). Greater perceived thirst existed in T (7 ± 2 on a 1–9 scale) than NT (4 ± 2, P < 0.001) after the TT. No significant differences in power output existed during the TT between hydration (EU 202.9 ± 36.5 W vs DH 207.0 ± 35.9 W, P = 0.362) and thirst conditions (NT 203.3 ± 35.6 W vs T 206.6 ± 36.8 W, P = 0.548), nor were there differences in completion time (P = 0.832) or pacing profile (P = 0.690). Within the range of up to 3% body mass loss, neither the physiologic effects from lowered hydration status nor the perception of thirst, separately or combined, affected sustained submaximal exercise performance in the heat for a healthy and fit population.
Restoring heat stress‐associated reduction in middle cerebral artery velocity does not reduce fatigue in the heat
Authors: Keiser S. , Flück D. , Stravs A. , Hüppin F. , Lundby C.
Published: May 2015

Heat‐induced hyperventilation may reduce PaCO2 and thereby cerebral perfusion and oxygenation and in turn exercise performance. To test this hypothesis, eight volunteers completed three incremental exercise tests to exhaustion: (a) 18 °C ambient temperature (CON); (b) 38 °C (HEAT); and (c) 38 °C with addition of CO2 to inspiration to prevent the hyperventilation‐induced reduction in PaCO2 (HEAT + CO2). In HEAT and HEAT + CO2, rectal temperature was elevated prior to the exercise tests by means of hot water submersion and was higher (P < 0.05) than in CON. Compared with CON, ventilation was elevated (P < 0.01), and hence, PaCO2 reduced in HEAT. This caused a reduction (P < 0.05) in mean cerebral artery velocity (MCAvmean) from 68.6 ± 15.5 to 53.9 ± 10.0 cm/s, which was completely restored in HEAT + CO2 (68.8 ± 5.8 cm/s). Cerebral oxygenation followed a similar pattern. was 4.6 ± 0.1 L/min in CON and decreased (P < 0.05) to 4.1 ± 0.2 L/min in HEAT and remained reduced in HEAT + CO2 (4.1 ± 0.2 L/min). Despite normalization of MCAvmean and cerebral oxygenation in HEAT + CO2, this did not improve exercise performance, and thus, the reduced MCAvmean in HEAT does not seem to limit exercise performance.
Neurophysiological effects of exercise in the heat
Authors: Roelands B. , De Pauw K. , Meeusen R.
Published: May 2015

Fatigue during prolonged exercise is a multifactorial phenomenon. The complex interplay between factors originating from both the periphery and the brain will determine the onset of fatigue. In recent years, electrophysiological and imaging tools have been fine‐tuned, allowing for an improved understanding of what happens in the brain. In the first part of the review, we present literature that studied the changes in electrocortical activity during and after exercise in normal and high ambient temperature. In general, exercise in a thermo‐neutral environment or at light to moderate intensity increases the activity in the β frequency range, while exercising at high intensity or in the heat reduces β activity. In the second part, we review literature that manipulated brain neurotransmission, through either pharmacological or nutritional means, during exercise in the heat. The dominant outcomes were that manipulations changing brain dopamine concentration have the potential to delay fatigue, while the manipulation of serotonin had no effect and noradrenaline reuptake inhibition was detrimental for performance in the heat. Research on the effects of neurotransmitter manipulations on brain activity during or after exercise is scarce. The combination of brain imaging techniques with electrophysiological measures presents one of the major future challenges in exercise physiology/neurophysiology.