bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Genetic Admixture in an Association Study: Genetic Polymorphisms and Chromosome Aberrations in a Colombian Population Exposed to Organic Solvents
Authors: Hoyos‐Giraldo Luz Stella , Escobar‐Hoyos Luisa F. , Reyes‐Carvajal Ingrid , García Jharley J. , Córdoba Liliana , Gómez Adalberto Sánchez , García‐Vallejo Felipe , Cajas‐Salazar Nohelia , Carvajal Silvio , Bedoya Gabriel
Published: April 2013

The human population is heterogeneous in genetic susceptibility, chromosomal instability and disease risk; all factors which depend on inherited genetic constitution and acquired nongenetic environmental and occupational factors. Recently, special attention has been directed to the identification of sources of potential bias in population studies of gene–environment interactions including genetic admixture. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of genetic admixture in the association of genetic polymorphisms and chromosome aberrations (CA) in a population exposed to organic solvents. We assessed genetic admixture via 34 genetic ancestry informative markers (AIMs) in 398 Colombian individuals. We report a statistically significant difference of higher CA frequency in individuals’ below‐average European component, and in individuals’ above‐average Native American component after adjusting for covariates. In addition, the confounding risk ratio values are ≥10% than the adjusted risk ratio, suggesting that population stratification is a confounding factor in this gene–environment association study. Furthermore, after adjusting for individual admixture proportions and covariates, the results demonstrate that glutathione‐S‐transferase M1 (GSTM1)‐null is associated with CA frequency increase. These results suggest that gene–environment association studies that involve recently admixed populations should take into consideration population stratification as a confounding factor and suggest GSTM1‐null as a genetic marker associated with CA frequency increase.
Development on the periphery: A case study of the sub‐national island jurisdiction of Pitcairn Island
Authors: Amoamo Maria
Published: April 2013

This research reports on empirical findings of remote Pitcairn Island, the last remaining British Overseas Territory in the Pacific. It uses a qualitative methodology to discuss the island's potential for tourism development while recognising the issues and challenges faced by many small island developing states. However, as a sub‐national island jurisdiction Pitcairn presents a number of issues unique to its temporal socio‐political development and its centre periphery relationship with the metropole. The concept ‘decolonising without disengaging’ is posited to argue sub‐national island jurisdictions are places/spaces of innovative, creative and differentiated development processes that offer interesting departures from the conventional realms of sustainable discourse and island development. This concept is posited as a strategy of empowerment whereby autonomy without sovereignty does not necessarily hinder the development of tourism industries.
NIMBY or NIABY? Who defines a policy problem and why: Analysis of framing in radioactive waste disposal facility placement in South Korea
Authors: Kang Minah , Jang Jiho
Published: April 2013

This paper applies discourse analysis to policies surrounding the siting of radioactive waste disposal facilities in South Korea. We question the premises of previous studies that define the radioactive waste disposal facilities decision outcomes in Korea as ‘repeated failures’. Instead, we suggest that underlying ideas and value systems surrounding the policy problem differ between supporting and opposing parties. In particular, our focus is on the ‘framing’ strategies manifest in policy discourse. Our analysis of newspaper articles shows that participants define and frame the policy issue in distinctive ways. Framing strategies include selective attention to, and naming of, the policy issues in the processes of frame articulation, amplification, extension and transformation. Overall, our analysis shows that framing analysis is a useful tool for understanding the policy decision‐making process from a different perspective than traditional policy analysis.
Twist2 functions as a tumor suppressor in murine osteosarcoma cells
Authors: Ishikawa Tomoki , Shimizu Takatsune , Ueki Arisa , Yamaguchi Sayaka I. , Onishi Nobuyuki , Sugihara Eiji , Kuninaka Shinji , Miyamoto Takeshi , Morioka Hideo , Nakayama Robert , Kobayashi Eisuke , Toyama Yoshiaki , Mabuchi Yo , Matsuzaki Yumi , Yamaguchi Rui , Miyano Satoru , Saya Hideyuki
Published: April 2013

The epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) contributes to the malignant progression of cancer cells including acquisition of the ability to undergo metastasis. However, whereas EMT‐related transcription factors (EMT‐TF) are known to play an important role in the malignant progression of epithelial tumors, their role in mesenchymal tumors remains largely unknown. We show that expression of the gene for Twist2 is downregulated in human osteosarcoma and correlates inversely with tumorigenic potential in mouse osteosarcoma. Forced expression of Twist2 in highly tumorigenic murine osteosarcoma cells induced a slight inhibition of cell growth in vitro but markedly suppressed tumor formation in vivo. Conversely, knockdown of Twist2 in osteosarcoma cells with a low tumorigenic potential promoted tumor formation in vivo, suggesting that Twist2 functions as a tumor suppressor in osteosarcoma cells. Furthermore, Twist2 induced expression of fibulin‐5, which has been reported as a tumor suppressor. Medium conditioned by mouse osteosarcoma cells overexpressing Twist2 inhibited expression of the MMP9 gene as well as invasion in mouse embryonic fibroblasts, and forced expression of Twist2 in osteosarcoma cells suppressed MMP9 gene expression in tumor tissue. Data from the present study suggest that Twist2 inhibits formation of a microenvironment conducive to tumor growth and thereby attenuates tumorigenesis in osteosarcoma.
Cancer‐associated upregulation of histone H3 lysine 9 trimethylation promotes cell motility in vitro and drives tumor formation in vivo
Authors: Yokoyama Yuhki , Hieda Miki , Nishioka Yu , Matsumoto Ayaka , Higashi Satomi , Kimura Hiroshi , Yamamoto Hirofumi , Mori Masaki , Matsuura Shuji , Matsuura Nariaki
Published: April 2013

Global histone modification patterns correlate with tumor phenotypes and prognostic factors in multiple tumor types. Recent studies suggest that aberrant histone modifications play an important role in cancer. However, the effects of global epigenetic rearrangements on cell functions remain poorly understood. In this study, we show that the histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methyltransferase SUV39H1 is clearly involved in regulating cell migration in vitro. Overexpression of wild‐type SUV39H1, but not enzymatically inactive SUV39H1, activated migration in breast and colorectal cancer cells. Inversely, migration was reduced by knockdown of SUV39H1 or chemical inhibition by chaetocin. In addition, H3K9 trimethylation (H3K9me3) was specifically increased in invasive regions of colorectal cancer tissues. Moreover, the presence of H3K9me3 positively correlated with lymph node metastasis in colorectal cancer patients. Furthermore, overexpression of SUV39H1 drove tumorigenesis in mouse, resulting in a considerable decrease in survival rate. These data indicate that H3K9 trimethylation plays an important role in human colorectal cancer progression, possibly by promoting collective cell invasion.
Predictors of large and small for gestational age birthweight in offspring of women with gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Barnes R. A. , Edghill N. , Mackenzie J. , Holters G. , Ross G. P. , Jalaludin B. B. , Flack J. R.
Published: April 2013

Aim

To identify predictors of large and small for gestational age in women with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Methods

A retrospective audit of clinical data analysed for singleton births in women diagnosed with gestational diabetes by Australasian Diabetes in Pregnancy Society guidelines from 1994 to 2009. Exclusions were: incomplete data, delivered at < 36 weeks gestation and/or last recorded weight > 4 weeks pre‐delivery. We assessed: pre‐pregnancy BMI, ethnicity, total maternal weight gain, weight gain before and after treatment initiation for gestational diabetes, HbA1c at gestational diabetes presentation and treatment modality (diet or insulin) and smoking. Birthweight was assessed using customized percentile charts (large for gestational age > 90th; small for gestational age < 10th percentile). Multiple regression analyses were undertaken; statistical significance was p < 0.05.

Results

There were 1695 women first seen at (mean ± sd) 28.1 ± 5.3 weeks gestation (range 6–39). Ethnic mix was South‐East Asian 36.7%, Middle Eastern 27.6%, European 22.4%, Indian/Pakistani 8.6%, Samoan 1.9%, African 1.5% and Maori 1.1%. Therapy was diet 69.1% and insulin 30.9%. Mean total weight gain was 12.3 ± 6.1 kg, the majority (10.6 ± 6.0 kg), gained before dietary intervention. There were 7.9% small for gestational age and 15.2% large for gestational age births. Significant independent large for gestational age predictors were: weight gain before intervention, pre‐pregnancy BMI, weight gain after intervention and treatment type, but not HbA1c or smoking. Significant small for gestational age predictors were: weight gain before intervention, weight gain after intervention, but not pre‐pregnancy BMI, HbA1c or smoking.

Conclusion

Conventional treatment for gestational diabetes mellitus concentrates on management of blood glucose levels. The trends identified here emphasize the need to also address pregnancy weight gain stratified by pre‐pregnancy BMI.
Type 2 diabetes sits in a chair
Authors: Solomon T. P. J. , Thyfault J. P.
Published: April 2013

The incidence of type 2 diabetes (T2D) continues to skyrocket across the industrialized world leading to soaring medical costs, reduced quality of life and increased mortality rates. Therefore, a more firm understanding of the development of the disease and effective, low cost therapies for prevention and treatment are desperately needed. Accumulating evidence suggests that increased sedentary time (i.e. ‘sitting time’) combined with reduced physical activity levels, plays both a major role in the development of T2D and may contribute to the worsening of the condition after diagnosis. In this review, we cover these topics and use current scientific evidence to support our belief that ‘type 2 diabetes sits in a chair’. We also discuss a relatively new question that has yet to be examined: Would reducing sitting time be an effective treatment for T2D?
The once‐daily human GLP‐1 analogue liraglutide impacts appetite and energy intake in patients with type 2 diabetes after short‐term treatment
Authors: Flint A. , Kapitza C. , Zdravkovic M.
Published: April 2013

The aim was to investigate effects of liraglutide on appetite and energy intake in a randomized, placebo‐controlled, double‐blind, crossover study. Eighteen subjects with type 2 diabetes were assigned to treatment with once‐daily subcutaneous liraglutide (increasing by weekly 0.6 mg increments) or placebo for 3 weeks. Appetite ratings were assessed using visual analogue scales during a 5‐h meal test. Energy and macronutrient intake during the subsequent ad libitum lunch were also measured. After 3 weeks, mean postprandial and minimum hunger ratings were significantly lower with liraglutide 1.8 mg than placebo (p < 0.01), and the mean overall appetite score was significantly higher (p = 0.05), indicating reduced appetite. Liraglutide was associated with higher maximum fullness ratings (p = 0.001) and lower minimum ratings of prospective food consumption (p = 0.01). Mean estimated energy intake was 18% lower for liraglutide than placebo [estimated ratio 0.82 (95% CI 0.73;0.94); p = 0.004], but no significant differences in macronutrient distribution were noted. Findings suggest that reduced appetite and energy intake may contribute to liraglutide‐induced weight loss.
A proposal for a problem‐oriented pharmacobiochemistry course in dental education
Authors: Guven Y. , Bal F. , Issever H. , Can Trosala S.
Published: April 2013

Problem‐oriented learning is an effective method of learning that increases students' learning motivation, improves the relationship amongst students and results in open‐minded discussions. In this study, a new problem‐oriented pharmacobiochemistry course related to ‘oxidative metabolism of drugs by cytochrome P450 (CYP450) systems’ was designed. Students were divided into seven groups. Three keywords related to drug interaction through CYP450 were provided to each group in order for them to conduct research on the information given. After 1 month, the groups attended a session under the supervision of a tutor to solve a simulated problem case that was designed using the keywords. At the end of the integrated course, a multiple‐choice examination was given. The success rate of 76 students who attended the course was found to be significantly higher than the success rate of the students who received the lecture‐based course only (P < 0.0001). A questionnaire containing 20 items (Cronbach's alpha: 0.92) was administered to the students to learn about their perception regarding this educational model. The questionnaire was evaluated using the Likert scale. Student feedback was very positive, with fourteen answers rated as ‘agree’ and the remaining six rated as ‘strongly agree’. Students thought that the problem‐oriented model was very enjoyable and useful in regard to dental education. Based on these results, we conclude that this course model may help achieve an integrated curriculum for dental school programmes.
Riding the Practice Waves: Social Resourcing Practices during New Venture Development
Authors: Keating Andrew , Geiger Susi , McLoughlin Damien
Published: April 2013

This paper investigates how early venture entrepreneurs engage in socially embedded practices to resource their firm. We contribute to an emerging literature that calls for a shift in perspective from “resource” as an object to “resourcing” as a practice. This shift entails a focus away from whom entrepreneurs know toward how they engage with their venture's social contexts. Through the analysis of an in–depth longitudinal case study of a life–science venture, we show that social resourcing practices are more reminiscent of a creative coping with ambiguous and ever–changing environments over time than of “heroic” strategizing. We explore how entrepreneurs mobilize and creatively combine their social resources at hand, seek resources through engaging with other practice nets, negotiate differences between practice nets, and reflectively adapt their resourcing practices toward emerging resource contexts in ways that we describe as “riding the practice waves” of social resourcing.
Preparation of Ag‐AZO Nanocomposite Powder Compact for RF Magnetron Sputtering Target Application
Authors: Chau Joseph Lik Hang , Chou Yu‐Hsien , Wang, Shun‐Huei , Yang Chih‐Chao
Published: April 2013

Octylamine‐coated silver nanoparticles with an average size of 10 nm were synthesized and added to the AZO powder as fillers to increase the density of the sintered target. The resulting Ag–AZO nanocomposite powder was formed into compacts by a uniaxial pressing process. It was found that the addition of octylamine‐ coated silver nanoparticles can increase the density of AZO powder compacts by ~ 4% after sintering. The optimum content of silver addition is about 0.13 wt%. It is suggested that the melted silver fills the void space between agglomerate pores and enhances the interconnection between nanocrystalline AZO powders. The films deposited using the here‐synthesized Ag–AZO target showed lower resistivity and high carrier concentration compared with the one using AZO target.
Effect of Heat on Hollow Multiphase Ceramic Microspheres Prepared by Self‐Reactive Quenching Technology
Authors: Hongfei Lou , Jianjiang Wang , Xingjian Huo , Xudong Cai
Published: April 2013

The self‐reactive quenching technology, which combines flame thermal spraying technology, self‐propagating high‐temperature synthesis (SHS), and rapid solidification, is a new method for preparation of hollow microspheres. Based on this, the effect of heat released by different exothermic systems on preparation of hollow ceramic microspheres was studied. The results show that for low‐exothermic system Si‐Sucrose‐NH4Cl, the self‐propagating reactions cannot occur, and the quenching products are Si microspheres with porous structure. For the moderate exothermic system Al–SiO2‐Sucrose, the quenching products consist of some grains, which are hollow spherical or nearly spherical particles and irregular powders. Formation of Al2O3–Si indicates possible occurrence of SHS reactions. Meanwhile, for high‐exothermic system Al–Cr2O3‐Sucrose‐Si‐Epoxy Resin, the quenching products consist of internal hollow spherical grains and irregular‐shaped porous particles; the phase composition mainly contains Al2O3, Cr3C2, Cr7C3, Cr3Si, and mullite, showing completeness of SHS reactions. The higher the adiabatic combustion temperature of the system is, the more heat it releases is higher, and the ceramic droplets form easilier.
Effects of Intensive Antihypertensive Treatment on Chinese Hypertensive Patients Older Than 70 Years
Authors: Wei Yong , Jin Zhimin , Shen Guoying , Zhao Xiaowei , Yang Wanhua , Zhong Ye , Wang Jiguang
Published: April 2013

This study was performed to investigate whether intensive antihypertensive treatment with achieved blood pressure (BP) ≤140/90 mm Hg, as compared with standard treatment with achieved BP ≤150/90 mm Hg, could further improve cardiovascular outcomes in Chinese hypertensive patients older than 70 years. A total of 724 participants were randomly assigned to intensive or standard antihypertensive treatment. After a mean follow‐up of 4 years, the mean achieved BP was 135.7/76.2 mm Hg in the intensive treatment group and 149.7/82.1 mm Hg in the standard treatment group. The visit‐to‐visit variability in systolic BP and diastolic BP was lower in the intensive group than that in the standard group. Intensive antihypertensive treatment, compared with the standard treatment, decreased total and cardiovascular mortality by 41.7% and 50.3%, respectively, and reduced fatal/nonfatal stroke by 42.0% and heart failure death by 62.7%. Cox regression analysis indicated that the mean systolic BP (P=.020; 95% confidence interval, 1.006–1.069) and the standard deviation of systolic BP (P=.033; 95% confidence interval, 1.006–1.151) were risk factors for cardiovascular endpoint events. Intensive antihypertensive treatment with achieved 136/76 mm Hg was beneficial for Chinese hypertensive patients older than 70 years. Long‐term visit‐to‐visit variability in systolic BP was positively associated with the incidence of cardiovascular events.
Development of CD8+ T cells expressing two distinct receptors specific for MTB and HIV‐1 peptides
Authors: Hao Pei‐Pei , Zhang Xiao‐Bing , Luo Wei , Zhou Chao‐Ying , Wen Qian , Yang Zhi , Liu Su‐Dong , Jiang Zhen‐Min , Zhou Ming‐Qian , Jin Qi , Ma Li
Published: April 2013

The immune response in individuals co‐infected with Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) and the human immunodeficiency virus (MTB/HIV) gradually deteriorates, particularly in the cellular compartment. Adoptive transfer of functional effector T cells can confer protective immunity to immunodeficient MTB/HIV co‐infected recipients. However, few such effector T cells exist in vivo, and their isolation and amplification to sufficient numbers is difficult. Therefore, enhancing immune responses against both pathogens is critical for treating MTB/HIV co‐infected patients. One approach is adoptive transfer of T cell receptor (TCR) gene‐modified T cells for the treatment of MTB/HIV co‐infections because lymphocyte numbers and their functional avidity is significantly increased by TCR gene transfer. To generate bispecific CD8+ T cells, MTB Ag85B199–207 peptide‐specific TCRs (MTB/TCR) and HIV‐1 Env120–128 peptide‐specific TCRs (HIV/TCR) were isolated and introduced into CD8+ T cells simultaneously using a retroviral vector. To avoid mispairing among exogenous and endogenous TCRs, and to improve the function and stability of the introduced TCRs, several strategies were employed, including introducing mutations in the MTB/TCR constant (C) regions, substituting part of the HIV/TCR C regions with CD3ζ, and linking gene segments with three different 2A peptides. Results presented in this report suggest that the engineered T cells possessed peptide‐specific specificity resulting in cytokine production and cytotoxic activity. This is the first report describing the generation of engineered T cells specific for two different pathogens and provides new insights into TCR gene therapy for the treatment of immunocompromised MTB/HIV co‐infected patients.
Using new electrofishing technology to amp‐up fish sampling in estuarine habitats
Authors: Warry F. Y. , Reich P. , Hindell J. S. , McKenzie J. , Pickworth A.
Published: April 2013

A prototype, boat‐mounted electrofisher capable of operation in estuarine waters (where electrical conductivities often exceed 20 000 µS cm−1) was assessed. Electrofishing was compared to fyke and mesh netting in four riverine estuaries and to seining in a lagoonal estuary (consisting of a series of brackish coastal lakes separated from the sea by a barrier system of sand dunes). Fish assemblage composition, length distributions and the probability of detecting ecological fish guilds (relating to estuary use, position in the water column and body size) were compared among gears. The assemblage composition of electrofishing samples differed from those of fyke nets in all riverine estuaries and from mesh netting in two. The assemblage composition of electrofishing samples differed from those of seining in structured seagrass habitats of the lagoonal estuary. When all species were pooled, the electrofisher sampled a broader range of lengths than either fyke or mesh netting in riverine estuaries or seining in lagoonal estuaries. The bias of electrofishing and netting towards particular species and size classes affected the probability of detecting some ecological guilds, highlighting the potential implications of gear choice on understanding estuarine ecological function. The detection of guilds varied with gear type and environmental conditions, including stratification, water depth and surface electrical conductivity. Assessments with the aim to characterize the structure of fish assemblages will benefit from the use of multiple gears. Electrofishing shows immense promise for discretely sampling highly structured habitats to test hypotheses about their use.
Head‐shape polymorphism in Japanese eels Anguilla japonica in relation to differences of somatic growth in freshwater and brackish habitats
Authors: Kaifu K. , Yokouchi K. , Miller M. J. , Aoyama J. , Tsukamoto K.
Published: April 2013

The age, total length (LT), head shape and skull shape were investigated for 379 Japanese eels Anguilla japonica sampled in freshwater and brackish areas of the Kojima Bay–Asahi River system, Okayama, Japan, to learn about the differentiation process of head‐shape polymorphism. The relative mouth width (ratio of mouth width to LT) of A. japonica > 400 mm LT collected in fresh water was significantly greater than that of fish collected in brackish water. Growth rates of mouth width and the distance from the snout to the midpoint of the eyes (the ratio of width and distance to age, respectively) were not significantly different between freshwater and brackish‐water samples, whereas the somatic growth rate (the ratio of LT to age) of freshwater samples was significantly lower than that of brackish‐water eel samples. These results suggest that the factors affecting head and somatic growth of A. japonica are not identical. According to these results and feeding patterns in each habitat reported by another study, it is suggested that somatic growth appears to play a significant role in the differentiation process of the head‐shape polymorphism in A. japonica, with the slow‐growing fish in fresh water becoming broad‐headed and the fast‐growing fish in brackish water becoming narrow‐headed.
Comparative morphology of the sagittal otolith in three species of south Caspian gobies
Authors: Bani A. , Poursaeid S. , Tuset V. M.
Published: April 2013

Sagittal otolith shapes were investigated in order to identify three sympatric species of south Caspian gobies (Caspian goby Neogobius caspius, deepwater goby Ponticola bathybius and bighead goby Ponticola gorlap). The sagittal otoliths in P. bathybius have a rectangular shape and are thick, whereas in N. caspius they are relatively round and thin. In P. gorlap, otoliths have an elongated shape and are relatively thick. The noticeable difference among the otoliths of the three species is the presence of one anterior and one posterior projection in the otoliths of N. caspius and P. gorlap. Among shape indices, form factor (irregularity of surface area), circularity, aspect ratio and rectangularity are the foremost that indicate interspecific variability. The canonical discriminant analysis correctly classifies 94·7% of the original group cases. The overall analyses show the relevance of applying otolith shape for interspecific distinction of the three species of Caspian gobies.
Reproductive biology of squaretail coralgrouper Plectropomus areolatus using age‐based techniques
Authors: Rhodes K. L. , Taylor B. M. , Wichilmel C. B. , Joseph E. , Hamilton R. J. , Almany G. R.
Published: April 2013

The squaretail coralgrouper Plectropomus areolatus was identified as a fast‐growing, early maturing and relatively short‐lived aggregation‐spawning epinephelid. Examinations of sectioned otoliths found females and males first maturing at 2 and 3 years, respectively, suggesting protogynous hermaphroditism; however, no transitionals were observed in samples. Age distribution for the two sexes was similar and both were represented in the oldest age class; however, significant sex‐specific differences in size‐at‐age were identified. Both sexes fully recruit into the fishery at age 4 years and reach 90% of asymptotic length by age 3 years. Underwater visual assessments, combined with the gonado‐somatic indices, revealed a 5 month reproductive season, with interannual variability observed in the month of highest density within the spawning aggregation. Catch restrictions on adults during spawning times and at reproductive sites, combined with gear‐based management and enhanced enforcement, are recommended to maintain spawning stocks. Based on the available evidence, the sexual pattern for this species is unresolved.
Resource Use and Waste Generation by the Tourism Industry on the Big Island of Hawaii
Authors: Saito Osamu
Published: April 2013

A survey of the tourism industry on the island of Hawaii (the Big Island) in the state of Hawaii in the United States was conducted to collect baseline information on major resources (energy, food, and water consumption) and waste generation from five tourism sectors: accommodations, food and beverages (restaurants), golf courses, tourism services (tours), and rental cars. The questionnaire was developed and 50 establishments from the target sectors participated in this survey. Resource consumption and waste generation were calculated by the number of establishments, employees, and visitors. Using these factors and island‐wide statistics (the number of establishments, job counts, and visitors), this study estimated the current status of island‐wide water, food, and energy consumption and waste generation by these five sectors of the tourism industry. The estimate shows that the tourism sectors surveyed for this study account for 21.7% of the island's total energy consumption, 44.7% of the island‐wide water consumption, and 10.7% of the island‐wide waste generation. Using a per guest emission factor (such as per employee, guest room, and seat) provided in this study, the owners and managers of tourism establishments can calculate a baseline for each resource input and output. This is essential information to improve the industry's efficiency and result in economic savings.
A case of diffuse bilateral scrotal neurofibroma in a rabbit
Authors: Ypsilantis P. , Lambropoulou M. , Alexiadis G. , Papadopoulos N. , Simopoulos C.
Published: April 2013

This report details a rare case of diffuse bilateral scrotal neurofibroma complicated by hindlimb paralysis in a rabbit. The animal was evaluated for unusual bilateral scrotal enlargement. After physical examination, ultrasound scan, radiography, computed tomography and laparoscopy, surgical exploration of the scrotum was undertaken. A homogeneous rubbery firm mass was revealed in contact with the subcutaneous tissue expanding to the entire scrotum without involving the testicles. The mass was excised and diagnosed as diffuse scrotal neurofibroma based on histological and immunohistochemical findings (S‐100 antibody positive). Over the following month, progressive neurological signs (faecal incontinence, flaccid bladder and hindlimb paralysis) were observed. After excluding central nervous system infection with Encephalitozoon cuniculi, expansion of the neurofibroma to the vertebral canal causing compression of the spinal cord was suspected, although not histopathologically verified.
Duplicated ectopic ureter in a nine‐year‐old Labrador
Authors: Novellas R. , Stone J. , Pratschke K. , Hammond G.
Published: April 2013

A nine‐year‐old male neutered Labrador retriever presented with a history of chronic urinary tract infections and occasional dribbling of urine. Abdominal ultrasound showed changes suggestive of a left ectopic ureter. A pneumocystogram revealed an air‐filled distended tubular and tortuous structure extending from the region of the prostatic urethra to the left kidney, consistent with an ectopic ureter. Intravenous urography depicted the presence of an additional left ureter with only slightly larger diameter than the right and with normal insertion in the bladder neck. A duplicated ectopic left ureter was suspected and confirmed during surgery. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first description of a duplicated ectopic ureter in the canine species. The combination of ultrasound and contrast radiography was important to reach the diagnosis.
Pleasure and Pain: The Effect of (Almost) Having an Orgasm on Genital and Nongenital Sensitivity
Authors: Paterson Laurel Q.P. , Amsel Rhonda , Binik Yitzchak M.
Published: April 2013

Introduction

The effect of sexual arousal and orgasm on genital sensitivity has received little research attention, and no study has assessed sensation pleasurableness as well as painfulness.

Aim

To clarify the relationship between sexual arousal, orgasm, and sensitivity in a healthy female sample.

Methods

Twenty-six women privately masturbated to orgasm and almost to orgasm at two separate sessions, during which standardized pressure stimulation was applied to the glans clitoris, vulvar vestibule, and volar forearm at three testing times: (i) baseline; (ii) immediately following masturbation; and (iii) following a subsequent 15-minute rest period.

Main Outcome Measures

Touch thresholds (tactile detection sensitivity), sensation pleasurableness ratings (pleasurable sensitivity), and pain thresholds (pain sensitivity).

Results

Pleasurableness ratings were higher on the glans clitoris than the vulvar vestibule, and at most testing times on the vulvar vestibule than the volar forearm; and at baseline and immediately after masturbation than 15 minutes later, mainly on the genital locations only. Pain thresholds were lower on the genital locations than the volar forearm, and immediately and 15 minutes after masturbation than at baseline. After orgasm, genital pleasurableness ratings and vulvar vestibular pain thresholds were lower than after masturbation almost to orgasm. Post-masturbation pleasurableness ratings were positively correlated with pain thresholds but only on the glans clitoris. Hormonal contraception users had lower pleasurableness ratings and pain thresholds on all locations than nonusers. There were no significant effects for touch thresholds.

Conclusions

Masturbation appears to maintain pleasurable genital sensitivity but increase pain sensitivity, with lower genital pleasurable sensitivity and higher vulvar vestibular pain sensitivity when orgasm occurs. Findings suggest that enhancing stimulation pleasurableness, psychological sexual arousal and lubrication mitigate normative increases in pain sensitivity during sexual activity, and underscore the importance of measuring both pleasure and pain in sensation research.
Psychological Correlates of Sexual Dysfunction in Female Rectal and Anal Cancer Survivors: Analysis of Baseline Intervention Data
Authors: Philip Errol J. , Nelson Christian , Temple Larissa , Carter Jeanne , Schover Leslie , Jennings Sabrina , Jandorf Lina , Starr Tatiana , Baser Ray , DuHamel Katherine
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Sexual dysfunction represents a complex and multifactorial construct that can affect both men and women and has been noted to often deteriorate significantly after treatment for rectal and anal cancer. Despite this, it remains an understudied, underreported, and undertreated issue in the field of cancer survivorship.

Aim

This study examined the characteristics of women enrolled in an intervention trial to treat sexual dysfunction, and explored the relationship between sexual functioning and psychological well-being.

Methods

There were 70 female posttreatment anal or rectal cancer survivors assessed as part of the current study. Participants were enrolled in a randomized intervention trial to treat sexual dysfunction and completed outcome measures prior to randomization.

Main Outcomes Measures

The main outcome measures are quality of life (QOL) (European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Core Quality of Life Questionnaire [EORTC-QLQ-C30] and Colorectal Cancer-Specific Module [QLQ-CR38]), sexual functioning (Female Sexual Functioning Index), and psychological well-being (Brief Symptom Inventory Depression/Anxiety, Impact of Events Scale-Revised, CR-38 Body Image).

Results

Women enrolled in the study intervention were on average 55 years old, predominantly Caucasian (79%), married (57%), and a median of 4 years postprimary treatment. For those reporting sexual activity at baseline (N = 41), sexual dysfunction was associated with a range of specific measures of psychological well-being, all in the hypothesized direction. The Sexual/Relationship Satisfaction subscale was associated with all measures of psychological well-being (r = −0.45 to −0.70, all P < 0.01). Body image, anxiety, and cancer-specific posttraumatic distress were notable in their association with subscales of sexual functioning, while a global QOL measure was largely unrelated.

Conclusions

For sexually active female rectal and anal cancer survivors enrolled in a sexual health intervention, sexual dysfunction was significantly and consistently associated with specific measures of psychological well-being, most notably Sexual/Relationship Satisfaction. These results suggest that sexual functioning may require focused assessment by providers, beyond broad QOL assessments, and that attention to Sexual/Relationship Satisfaction may be critical in the development and implementation of interventions for this cohort of patients.
Virus‐neutralizing antibodies to hepatitis C virus
Authors: Wahid A. , Dubuisson J.
Published: April 2013

For a long time, the lack of an appropriate cell culture system has hampered the study of neutralizing antibody responses against hepatitis C virus (HCV). However, the last decade has seen the development of several model systems that have significantly advanced our understanding of viral entry and antibody neutralization. Studies of acutely infected patients suggest that a strong and early production of neutralizing antibodies may contribute to control the virus during the acute phase of HCV infection and facilitate viral elimination by cellular immune responses. It also emerges that the early antibody response mainly targets hypervariable region 1 (HVR1) of the envelope glycoprotein E2. This host response can lead to viral escape from neutralization by rapid amino acid changes in this hypervariable region. In contrast, cross‐reactive neutralizing antibodies seem to appear later during HCV infection, and several mechanisms contribute to reduce their accessibility to their cognate epitopes. These include the masking of major conserved neutralizing epitopes by HVR1, specific N‐linked glycans and the lipid moiety of the viral particle. Other potential mechanisms of evasion from the neutralizing antibody response include a modulation by high‐density lipoproteins and interfering antibodies as well as the capacity of the virus to be transferred by cell‐to‐cell contacts. Finally, the recent identification of several highly conserved neutralizing epitopes provides some opportunities for the design and development of vaccine candidates that elicit a protective humoral immune response.
Effects of Feeding Rate on Habitat Quality in Fish Rearing Ponds
Authors: Filbrun Jesse E. , Reynolds Curtis A. , Culver David A.
Published: April 2013

Manufactured feeds are commonly added to earthen ponds to enhance growth and survival of juvenile fish. However, excessive feeding may decrease fish production efficiency and yields by causing hypoxia (dissolved oxygen, DO < 2 mg/L) and stimulating excessive phytoplankton, filamentous green algae, and vascular plant growth. In this study, we quantified the effects of manufactured feed addition (no feeding, 1%, or 3% body‐weight/day, BW/d) on DO and inorganic phosphorus (P) and nitrogen (N) concentrations, plant abundance, and invertebrate prey production in ponds stocked with age‐0 channel catfish, Ictalurus punctatus. We found that the 3% BW/d ponds had lower DO concentrations and greater infestation by filamentous green algae (Rhizoclonium spp.) as compared to the 1% BW/d and no‐feeding ponds. Using stable N and carbon (C) isotopes to trace the fate of feed‐derived N and C in ponds, as well as analysis of zooplankton abundance, we determined that the supplied feed did not support or enhance production of natural invertebrate prey. To improve fish production efficiency, we recommend that managers leverage natural prey support of growth during early life, then adjust feeding levels to enhance growth of older fish and maintain suitable habitat quality.
Effect of Dietary Carbohydrate‐to‐lipid Ratios on Growth Performance, Body Composition, Hepatic Enzyme Activities, and Digestive Enzyme Activities of Juvenile Australian Redclaw Crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens)
Authors: Zhu Huanxi , Jiang Qichen , Wang Qing , Yang Jianghua , Dong Siming , Yang Jiaxin
Published: April 2013

A growth experiment was conducted to determine the optimal dietary carbohydrate‐to‐lipid (CHO : L) ratio for the Australian redclaw crayfish, Cherax quadricarinatus (von Martens). Specimens were divided into five treatment groups and fed twice a day to apparent satiation with isonitrogenous and isoenergetic diets with dietary CHO : L ratios of 10.75:1, 5.99:1, 3.60:1, 2.18:1, or 1.33:1. Over the 8‐wk growth trial, redclaw crayfish fed the 2.81:1 and 3.60:1 diets exhibited better weight gain (WG), specific growth rate (SGR), and feed conversion ratio (FCR) than specimens fed the other diets (P < 0.05). Activities of hexokinase and pyruvate kinase were stimulated by elevated levels of dietary carbohydrate, whereas activities of lipase and alkaline phosphatase were stimulated by elevated levels of dietary lipid. Dietary CHO : L ratios significantly affected digestive enzyme activities (P < 0.05), except for trypsin (P > 0.05). On the basis of the analysis of growth, FCR, and costs of culturing redclaw crayfish, the optimal growth and costs occurred when the dietary carbohydrate and lipid levels were 290.10 g/kg and 80.70 g/kg, respectively, corresponding to a CHO : L ratio of 3.60:1. These results indicate that a CHO : L ratio of 3.60:1 is optimal for rearing redclaw crayfish and that this species uses carbohydrate more efficiently than lipid.
Replacement of Artemia franciscana Nauplii by Microencapsulated Diets: Effect on Development, Digestive Enzymes, and Body Composition of White Shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, Larvae
Authors: Gallardo Pedro , Martínez Gemma , Palomino Gabriela , Paredes Adriana , Gaxiola Gabriela , Cuzon Gerard , Pedroza‐Islas Ruth
Published: April 2013

The effects of two microencapsulated feeds were evaluated on development, growth, survival, proteolytic activity, and biochemical composition of white shrimp, Litopenaeus vannamei, larvae. The treatments were: (1) basal microcapsules (BM), (2) microcapsules containing krill hydrolysate (BMK), and (3) live food control (LFC: Artemia franciscana nauplii) with all treatments receiving algae (Chaetoceros ceratosporum and Tetraselmis chuii). No significant differences were found in development index and survival among larvae. Growth rate was significantly higher in larvae fed LFC (15 ± 0.06%/d) as compared with those offered the BM diet (7.5 ± 0.5%/d) with the BMK (11 ± 0.04%/d) treatment producing intermediate results. The activity of total proteases and chymotrypsin decreased significantly after Mysis I (MI) in larvae fed LFC or BMK. Protein content of larvae increased significantly toward PL1. The acylglycerides content in MIII fed on LFC (2.3 ± 0.2%/dw) was higher than that MI fed BM (1 ± 0.01%/dw). No difference was observed in the cholesterol (CH) content of the larvae. The acylglycerides/protein and cholesterol/protein ratios showed a decreasing pattern between MI and PL1, indicating that these two ratios were related to ontogenetic shifts. These results demonstrate improvements in microparticulate diets when krill hydrolysates are included in the formulation.
Infostorms
Authors: Hansen Pelle G. , Hendricks Vincent F. , Rendsvig Rasmus K.
Published: April 2013

It has become a truism that we live in so‐called information societies where new information technologies have made information abundant. At the same time, information science has made us aware of many phenomena tied to the way we process information. This article explores a series of socio‐epistemic information phenomena resulting from processes that track truth imperfectly: pluralistic ignorance, informational cascades, and belief polarization. It then couples these phenomena with the hypothesis that modern information technologies may lead to their amplification so as to give rise to what are called “infostorms.” This points to the need for studying further the exact relations between information technologies and such infostorms, as well as the ways we may design technologies to avoid being misled away from what we have good reasons to believe.
What is A Philosophical Question?
Authors: Floridi Luciano
Published: April 2013

There are many ways of understanding the nature of philosophical questions. One may consider their morphology, semantics, relevance, or scope. This article introduces a different approach, based on the kind of informational resources required to answer them. The result is a definition of philosophical questions as questions whose answers are in principle open to informed, rational, and honest disagreement, ultimate but not absolute, closed under further questioning, possibly constrained by empirical and logico‐mathematical resources, but requiring noetic resources to be answered. The article concludes with a discussion of some of the consequences of this definition for a conception of philosophy as the study (or “science”) of open questions, which uses conceptual design to analyse and answer them.
Structural Analysis and Validation of a Smart Pantograph Mast Concept
Authors: Glisic Branko , Adriaenssens Sigrid , Szerzo Peter
Published: April 2013

To progress the development of deployable, lightweight infrastructure for relief and recovery efforts in the aftermath of natural and man‐made disasters, this article develops a proof of concept for a smart mast that leverages the versatility of pantograph systems and advances in sensor, actuator, and informatics technologies. More specifically the article addresses key design criteria of transportability, deployability, global stability, and site responsiveness through the development of analytical expressions and control framework, and reduced‐scale physical model testing. The case study, a three‐tiered tetrahedral mast is composed of three connected sets of planar pantograph systems and deployed by single actuator located between two of the three mast supports. The article discusses the optimum configurations for the individual design criteria and trade‐offs to be made between compactness, overturning, and operational power. The design, construction, and experimentation with a 73‐cm tall fully deployed physical model reinforce the feasibility of the presented smart mast concept.
Global diversity and distribution of three necrotrophic effectors in Phaeosphaeria nodorum and related species
Authors: McDonald Megan C. , Oliver Richard P. , Friesen Timothy L. , Brunner Patrick C. , McDonald Bruce A.
Published: April 2013

Population genetic and phylogenetic studies have shown that Phaeosphaeria nodorum is a member of a species complex that probably shares its center of origin with wheat (Triticum aestivum and Triticum durum). We examined the evolutionary histories of three known necrotrophic effectors (NEs) produced by P. nodorum and compared them with neutral loci.

We screened over 1000 individuals for the presence/absence of each effector and assigned each individual to a multi‐effector genotype. Diversity at each NE locus was assessed by sequencing c. 200 individuals for each locus.

We found significant differences in effector frequency among populations. We propose that these differences reflect the presence/absence of the corresponding susceptibility gene in wheat cultivars. The population harboring the highest sequence diversity was different for each effector locus and never coincided with populations harboring the highest diversity at neutral loci. Coalescent and phylogenetic analyses showed a discontinuous presence of all three NEs among nine closely related Phaeosphaeria species. Only two of the nine species were found to harbor NEs.

We present evidence that the three described NEs of P. nodorum were transmitted to its sister species, Phaeosphaeria avenaria tritici 1, via interspecific hybridization.
PUBLIC SERVICE VALUES: A NEW APPROACH TO THE STUDY OF MOTIVATION IN THE PUBLIC SPHERE
Authors: WITESMAN EVA , WALTERS LAWRENCE
Published: April 2013

This article details an approach for empirically eliciting and examining public service values and their impact on decisions made by public servants. The approach involves adaptation of the Schwartz Portrait Values Questionnaire such that it: (1) elicits values relevant to an individual's public service role rather than broad personal values; and (2) incorporates values omitted by the Schwartz framework, including those identified by Jørgensen and Bozeman and others. To examine the impact of public service values on specific public management decisions, we use structured decision context statements similar to those proposed by Tetlock. We find that: (1) the adapted instrument maps favourably to the Schwartz personal value space; (2) the public service values space includes value sets that expand and refine the personal value space defined by Schwartz; and (3) the public service values elicited can be used to predict decisions made by respondents in specific public service decision contexts.