bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self‐regulated learning ability of Chinese distance learners
Authors: Zhao Hong , Chen Li , Panda Santosh
Published: November 2013

This study reports on self‐regulated learning (SRL) of Chinese distance learners by using a structured SRL scale. SRL of adult and lifelong learners is a well‐researched area, though its application within distance education is a new area of investigation. Open and distance learning lean heavily on self‐learning and self‐learning resources, though interaction at designated learning centers and online learning platforms is occasionally offered. In China, there is still persistence of the age‐old teacher‐centric model of teaching‐learning; and, within distance education offered largely by the radio and television universities, there is insistence for regular tuition classes at designated branch schools. At the backdrop of understanding and enhancing SRL of Chinese distance learners, the authors took up this research to find out the elements and levels of SRL ability among Chinese distance learners. Based on factor analysis (on 357 students for item analysis and on 600 distance learners for structural validity of the initial 117‐item scale), a standardized 54‐item Self‐regulated Learning Ability Scale was finalized and administered on a random sample of 2738 undergraduate learners (1630 males and 1108 females) from the Open Distance Education Centre of Beijing Normal University, P.R. China, doing an online course during 2009–10. The sample came from either senior high school (grade 12) or junior college (grade 14). Data on four dimensions of SRL—planning, control, regulating and evaluation—were analyzed using ‘t’ test for variables of gender, level of education and age. Results indicated that all the participants had above‐average levels of SRL in all the four dimensions of planning, control, regulating and evaluation. In so far as gender was concerned, male distance learners were better in SRL than female distance learners, especially in control (ie, content and resources) and all the evaluation dimensions. Though no age difference was found, students from junior colleges had better planning, regulating and evaluating abilities than those who came from senior high schools. These results have been discussed in the context of current changes in Chinese distance/online education and also in relation to the age‐old Chinese culture of learning. The results will also have implications for designing distance and online learning generally.
Involvement of Inflammasome Activation in Lipopolysaccharide‐induced Mice Depressive‐like Behaviors
Authors: Zhang Yi , Liu Lei , Peng Yun‐Li , Liu Yun‐Zi , Wu Teng‐Yun , Shen Xiao‐Liang , Zhou Jiang‐Rui , Sun Ding‐Ya , Huang Ai‐Jun , Wang Xia , Wang Yun‐Xia , Jiang Chun‐Lei
Published: November 2013

Aims

The NLRP3 inflammasome is a cytoplasmic multiprotein complex of the innate immune system that regulates the cleavage of interleukin‐1β and interleukin‐18 precursors. It can detect a wide range of danger signals and trigger a series of immune‐inflammatory reactions. There were plenty of studies indicating that activation of the immune system played pivotal roles in depression. However, the underlying mechanisms of immune‐depression interactions remained elusive and there was no report about the involvement of inflammasome activation in depression.

Methods

We established an acute depression mouse model with lipopolysaccharide to explore the involvement of inflammasome activation in depression.

Results

The lipopolysaccharide‐treated mice displayed depressive‐like behaviors and pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β protein and mRNA levels significantly increased. The NLRP3 inflammasome mRNA expression level also significantly elevated in depressed mice brain. Pretreatment with the NLRP3 inflammasome inhibitor Ac‐YVAD‐CMK significantly abrogated the depressive‐like behaviors induced by lipopolysaccharide.

Conclusion

These data suggest for the first time that the NLRP3 inflammasome is involved in lipopolysaccharide‐induced mice depressive‐like behaviors. The NLRP3 inflammasome may be a central mediator between immune activation and depression, which raises the possibility that it may be a more specific target for the depression treatments in the near future.
Characterization of Polyethylene Glycol‐Polyethyleneimine as a Vector for Alpha‐Synuclein siRNA Delivery to PC12 Cells for Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Liu Yun‐Yun , Yang Xing‐Yi , Li Zhong , Liu Zhong‐Lin , Cheng Du , Wang Yong , Wen Xiao‐Jun , Hu Jing‐Yang , Liu Jun , Wang Li‐Min , Wang Hui‐Jun
Published: November 2013

Aims

Gene therapy targeting the SNCA gene yields promising results in the treatment of Parkinson's disease (PD). The most challenging issue of the RNAi gene therapy strategy is maintaining efficient delivery without inducing significant toxicity and other adverse effects. This study aimed to characterize polyethylene glycol‐polyethyleneimine as a vector for alpha‐synuclein siRNA delivery to PC12 cells for Parkinson's disease.

Methods

The characteristics of PEG‐PEI/siSNCA were analyzed via gel retardation assay and assessments of particle size and zeta potential. MTT cytotoxicity assay and flow cytometry were used to detect cytotoxicity and transfection efficiency in PC12 cells. Confocal laser scanning microscopy was employed to examine the intracellular distribution of PEG‐PEI/FITC‐siSNCA after cellular uptake. RT‐PCR and western blotting were used to measure SNCA expression. The MTT cytotoxicity assay was used to study the effect of PEG‐PEI/siSNCA on cell viability. The protective effect of PEG‐PEI/siSNCA on MPP+‐induced apoptosis in PC12 cells was examined via flow cytometry and Hoechst staining.

Results

PEG‐PEI/siSNCA complexes were well‐developed; they exhibited appropriate particle sizes and zeta potentials at a mass ratio of 5:1. In vitro, PEG‐PEI/siSNCA was associated with low cytotoxicity and high transfection efficiency. Complexes were capable of successfully delivering siSNCA into PC12 cells and releasing it from the endosome. Furthermore, PEG‐PEI/siSNCA could effectively suppress SNCA mRNA expression and protected cells from death via apoptosis induced by MPP+.

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that PEG‐PEI performs well as a vector for alpha‐synuclein siRNA delivery into PC12 cells. Additionally, PEG‐PEI/siSNCA complexes were suggested to be able to protect cells from death via apoptosis induced by MPP+. These findings suggest that PEG‐PEI/siSNCA nanoparticles exhibit remarkable potential as a gene delivery system for Parkinson's disease.
Meserine, a Novel Carbamate AChE Inhibitor, Ameliorates Scopolamine‐Induced Dementia and Alleviates Amyloidogenesis of APP/PS1 Transgenic Mice
Authors: Shao Bi‐Yun , Xia Zheng , Xie Qiong , Ge Xin‐Xing , Zhang Wei‐Wei , Sun Jian , Jiang Pan , Wang Hao , Le Wei‐Dong , Qiu Zhui‐Bai , Lu Yang , Chen Hong‐Zhuan
Published: November 2013

Aims

To investigate whether Meserine, a novel phenylcarbamate derivative of (−)‐meptazinol, possesses beneficial activities against cholinergic deficiency and amyloidogenesis, the two major pathological characteristics of Alzheimer's disease (AD).

Methods

Ellman's assay and Morris water maze were used to detect acetylcholinesterase (AChE) activity and evaluate spatial learning and memory ability, respectively. Both high content screening and Western blotting were carried out to detect β‐amyloid precursor protein (APP), while RT‐PCR and ELISA were conducted to detect APP‐mRNA and β‐amyloid peptide (Aβ).

Results

In scopolamine‐induced dementia mice, Meserine (1 mg/kg, i.p.) significantly ameliorated spatial learning and memory deficits, which was consistent with its in vitro inhibitory ability against AChE (recombinant human AChE, IC50 = 274 ± 49 nM). Furthermore, Meserine (7.5 mg/kg) injected intraperitoneally once daily for 3 weeks lowered APP level by 28% and Aβ42 level by 42% in APP/PS1 transgenic mouse cerebrum. This APP modulation action might be posttranscriptional, as Meserine reduced APP by about 30% in SH‐SY5Y‐APP695 cells but did not alter APP‐mRNA level. And both APP and Aβ42 lowering action of Meserine maintained longer than that of rivastigmine.

Conclusion

Meserine executes dual actions against cholinergic deficiency and amyloidogenesis and provides a promising lead compound for symptomatic and modifying therapy of AD.
Heat Shock Protein 70 Reduces α‐Synuclein‐Induced Predegenerative Neuronal Dystrophy in the α‐Synuclein Viral Gene Transfer Rat Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Moloney Teresa C. , Hyland Rhona , O'Toole Daniel , Paucard Alexia , Kirik Deniz , O'Doherty Aideen , Gorman Adrienne M. , Dowd Eilís
Published: November 2013

Aims

It has become increasingly evident that the nigrostriatal degeneration associated with Parkinson's disease initiates at the level of the axonal terminals in the putamen, and this nigrostriatal terminal dystrophy is either caused or exacerbated by the presence of α‐synuclein immunopositive neuronal inclusions. Therefore, strategies aimed at reducing α‐synuclein‐induced early neuronal dystrophy may slow or halt the progression to overt nigrostriatal neurodegeneration. Thus, this study sought to determine if adeno‐associated virus (AAV) mediated overexpression of two molecular chaperone heat shock proteins, namely Hsp27 or Hsp70, in the AAV‐α‐synuclein viral gene transfer rat model of Parkinson's disease could prevent α‐synuclein‐induced early neuronal pathology.

Methods

Male Sprague–Dawley rats were intranigrally coinjected with pathogenic (AAV‐α‐synuclein) and putative therapeutic (AAV‐Hsp27 or AAV‐Hsp70) viral vectors and were sacrificed 18 weeks postviral injection.

Results

Intranigral injection of AAV‐α‐synuclein resulted in significant α‐synuclein accumulation in the substantia nigra and striatal terminals which led to significant dystrophy of nigrostriatal dopaminergic neurons without overt nigrostriatal neurodegeneration. Coinjection of AAV‐Hsp70, but not AAV‐Hsp27, significantly reduced AAV‐α‐synuclein‐induced neuronal dystrophy.

Conclusions

These data confirm that overexpression of Hsp70 holds significant potential as a disease‐modulating therapeutic approach for Parkinson's disease, with protective effects against early‐onset α‐synuclein‐induced pathology demonstrated in the AAV‐α‐synuclein model.
The assessment and management of chronic cough in children according to the British Thoracic Society guidelines: descriptive, prospective, clinical trial
Authors: Usta Guc Belgin , Asilsoy Suna , Durmaz Cemile
Published: November 2013

Background

Chronic cough is a common problem of various etiologies. While diagnosis may relatively be easy in the presence of some specific findings, it tends to be rather difficult when there are no clear symptoms. Therefore, practical guidelines are needed for management of patients with chronic cough. We aimed to evaluate assessment and management of chronic cough in children according to the British Thoracic Society guidelines published in 2008.

Methods

Patients with chronic cough lasting longer than 8 weeks between 5 and 16 years old were evaluated. Pulmonary function test and chest radiography were performed on all patients. Further workup was conducted on those requiring further investigation. Patients were re‐evaluated at 2‐ to 4‐week intervals, and we followed our patients for 18 months until cough resolved.

Results

One hundred fifty six patients (52.5% female) aged 5–16 (8.42 ± 2.6) years were included. Of the 156 patients, 19.2% (n = 30) were diagnosed with postnasal drip syndrome plus asthma; 18.6% (n = 29) with postnasal drip syndrome; 12.2% (n = 19) with asthma; 12.2% (n = 19) with protracted bacterial bronchitis; and 11.5% (n = 18) with nonspecific isolated cough, 9.6% (n = 15) with cough variant asthma, 5.7% (n = 9) with psychogenic cough and 3.2% (n = 5) with gastroesophageal reflux disease.

Conclusions

Postnasal drip syndrome and asthma was the most common cause of chronic cough. Asthma‐associated findings were found in some of the patients diagnosed with postnasal drip syndrome. It has been observed that there could be more than one particular cause for cough concerning some patients. The gastroesophageal reflux disease was not a common primary cause of chronic cough in children.
Education, Rent seeking and the Curse of Natural Resources
Authors: Wadho Waqar Ahmed
Published: November 2013

Empirical evidence suggests that natural resources breed corruption and reduce educational attainments, dampening economic growth. The theoretical literature has treated these two channels separately, with natural resources affecting growth either through human capital or corruption. In this article, we argue that education and corruption are jointly determined and depend on the endowment of natural resources. Natural resources affect the incentives to invest in education and rent seeking that in turn affect growth. Whether natural resources stimulate growth or induce a poverty‐trap crucially depends on inequality in access to education and political participation, as well as on the cost of political participation. For lower inequality and higher cost of political participation, a high‐growth and a poverty‐trap equilibrium coexist even with abundant natural resources.
Life on the edge: thermal optima for aerobic scope of equatorial reef fishes are close to current day temperatures
Authors: Rummer Jodie L. , Couturier Christine S. , Stecyk Jonathan A. W. , Gardiner Naomi M. , Kinch Jeff P. , Nilsson Göran E. , Munday Philip L.
Published: November 2013

Equatorial populations of marine species are predicted to be most impacted by global warming because they could be adapted to a narrow range of temperatures in their local environment. We investigated the thermal range at which aerobic metabolic performance is optimum in equatorial populations of coral reef fish in northern Papua New Guinea. Four species of damselfishes and two species of cardinal fishes were held for 14 days at 29, 31, 33, and 34 °C, which incorporated their existing thermal range (29–31 °C) as well as projected increases in ocean surface temperatures of up to 3 °C by the end of this century. Resting and maximum oxygen consumption rates were measured for each species at each temperature and used to calculate the thermal reaction norm of aerobic scope. Our results indicate that one of the six species, Chromis atripectoralis, is already living above its thermal optimum of 29 °C. The other five species appeared to be living close to their thermal optima (ca. 31 °C). Aerobic scope was significantly reduced in all species, and approached zero for two species at 3 °C above current‐day temperatures. One species was unable to survive even short‐term exposure to 34 °C. Our results indicate that low‐latitude reef fish populations are living close to their thermal optima and may be more sensitive to ocean warming than higher‐latitude populations. Even relatively small temperature increases (2–3 °C) could result in population declines and potentially redistribution of equatorial species to higher latitudes if adaptation cannot keep pace.
Within-Subject Intra- and Inter-Method Consistency of Two Experimental Risk Attitude Elicitation Methods
Authors: Dulleck Uwe , Fooken Jonas , Fell Jacob
Published: November 2013

We compare the consistency of choices in two methods used to elicit risk preferences on an aggregate as well as on an individual level. We ask subjects to choose twice from a list of nine decisions between two lotteries, as introduced by Holt and Laury (2002, 2005) alternating with nine decisions using the budget approach introduced by Andreoni and Harbaugh (2009). We find that, while on an aggregate (subject pool) level the results are consistent, on an individual (within-subject) level, behaviour is far from consistent. Within each method as well as across methods we observe low (simple and rank) correlations.
Dual role of C/EBPα as an activator and repressor of Gαi2 gene transcription
Authors: Xu Jinxian , Kawai Yumiko , Arinze Ifeanyi J.
Published: November 2013

The G‐protein Gαi2 mediates signaling in a variety of processes. Induced expression of Gαi2 by butyrate and various transcription factors has been established, but transcriptional suppression has not previously been explored. Using HepG2 and K562 cells in culture, we show here that whereas both C/EBPα and C/EBPβ induced transcription from the Gαi2 gene promoter, C/EBPα, but not C/EBPβ, inhibited butyrate‐induced Gαi2 expression. Because the transcriptional effect of butyrate on this gene promoter is largely mediated by the transcription factor Sp1, we investigated whether C/EBPα influenced Sp1‐induced Gαi2 gene transcription. Binding of C/EBPα to a C/EBP response element in Gαi2 gene promoter inhibited Sp1‐induced promoter activity. ChIP analysis showed decreased butyrate‐induced recruitment of Sp1 to the Gαi2 gene promoter in response to C/EBPα treatment. Incubating cells with acetate or transfecting them with expression plasmid for either the acetyltransferase p300 or CREB‐binding protein (CBP) reversed the antagonistic effect of C/EBPα on Sp1‐dependent gene transcription, suggesting that the mechanistic basis for the antagonism is related to the squelching of co‐activator acetyltransferase(s) by C/EBPα or the acetylation of Sp1 and/or C/EBPα. This work reveals that C/EBPα plays a dual role as an activator and as a repressor of Gαi2 gene transcription.
Colony size and not nest density drives reproductive output in the Common TernSterna hirundo
Authors: Szostek K. Lesley , Becker Peter H. , Meyer Barbara C. , Sudmann Stefan R. , Zintl Heribert
Published: November 2013

Density is known to be an important factor in population size regulation. Several mechanisms of density limitation have been identified in colonial birds. We studied competition in Common TernsSterna hirundoto assess whether the factor limiting reproductive output was competition for nest‐sites, which is dependent on local nest density, or density‐dependent competition for food resources, which is dependent on overall colony size using the same foraging area. We found strong associations of both colony size and nest density with reproductive output in five colonies of Common Terns in three different habitats (one marine, two freshwater). Based on detailed long‐term datasets of six separate sub‐colonies of the Banter See colony that differed in nest density, we found that reproductive success was not related to nest density but to overall colony size, possibly a result of resource depletion and food competition. We also found carry‐over effects of colony size during rearing on post‐fledging return rate. These results have important implications for the conservation management plans aimed at recovering declining populations of Common Terns.
Genetic structure of the critically endangered Red‐headed Wood Pigeon Columba janthina nitens and its implications for the management of threatened island populations
Authors: Ando Haruko , Ogawa Hiroko , Kaneko Shingo , Takano Hajime , Seki Shin‐Ichi , Suzuki Hajime , Horikoshi Kazuo , Isagi Yuji
Published: November 2013

The Red‐headed Wood Pigeon Columba janthina nitens is endemic to the Ogasawara Islands, an oceanic island chain located 1000 km south of the main islands of Japan. The subspecies is at high risk of extinction because of its small population size and restricted habitat range. We undertook genetic analyses of this pigeon using sequences of a portion of the mitochondrial control region and five microsatellite markers to estimate the genetic characteristics of two wild populations from the Bonin and Volcano Islands, as well as one captive breeding population. The genetic diversity of the wild individuals was exceptionally low in both the mitochondria (nucleotide diversity = 0.00105) and at the microsatellite (3.2 alleles per locus and HE = 0.12) loci. Higher numbers of microsatellite genotypes were observed in the Volcano Islands population than in the Bonin Islands population, which may be because of the relatively low impact of human disturbance. The most common mitochondrial haplotypes and microsatellite alleles observed in the two wild populations were completely fixed in the captive population. Our results suggest that the genetic diversity of the captive population needs to be increased. However, introduction of a wild individual into a captive population can lead to a decreased genetic diversity in the wild population and therefore should be done with caution. The genetic differentiation between the Bonin and the Volcano island groups was low, and the populations of the two island groups should be regarded as a single evolutionarily significant unit. However, special consideration is required for habitat conservation in the Volcano Islands, which may be functioning as a sanctuary for the Red‐headed Wood Pigeon. For the long‐term conservation of threatened bird species that live on remote oceanic islands, determination of management units considering gene flow caused by their flying capacity and maintenance of genetically suitable wild and captive populations are essential.
Comparison of surgical variables in cats undergoing single‐incision laparoscopic ovariectomy using a LigaSure or extracorporeal suture versus open ovariectomy
Authors: Coisman James G. , Case J. Brad , Shih Andre , Harrison Kelly , Isaza Natalie , Ellison Gary
Published: November 2013

Objective

To evaluate the applicability of single‐incision laparoscopic ovariectomy (SILOVE) in cats using a single‐incision laparoscopic port (SILP); to compare surgical time, complications, and postoperative pain after SILOVE using a LigaSure (SILOVE‐LS) or extracorporeal suture (SILOVE‐ECS), and open ovariectomy (open‐OVE).

Study Design

Randomized, blinded, prospective study.

Animals

Healthy, domestic female cats (n = 24).

Methods

Cats underwent physical examination, packed cell volume, total solids and blood urea nitrogen analysis. Cats were randomly assigned to 1 of 3 groups: SILOVE‐LS (n = 8), SILOVE‐ECS (8) or open‐OVE (8). Surgical time, complications, and postoperative pain scores were recorded.

Results

Single‐incision laparoscopic ovariectomy was successful in (n = 8) SILOVE‐LS cats and (n = 5) SILOVE‐ECS cats. Surgical time was significantly longer for the SILOVE‐ECS group compared with the SILOVE‐LS (P < .0001) and open‐OVE (P < .0001) groups, which were not different (P = .55). Complications were more frequent in the SILOVE‐ECS group and removal of the SILP was required to complete ovariectomy in 3 cats. Cumulative 4‐hour pain scores were not different between groups.

Conclusions

Single‐incision laparoscopic ovariectomy using a SILP is a feasible method for OVE in cats. Single‐incision laparoscopic ovariectomy using an extracorporeal suture is more time consuming and associated with more complications than either the SILOVE‐LS or open‐OVE methods.
Social capital and drought‐migrant integration in 1930s Saskatchewan
Authors: Laforge Julia M. L. , McLeman Robert
Published: November 2013

This study examines the role played by social capital in the migration of rural households from drought‐stricken areas of southern Saskatchewan to the Aspen Parkland during the 1930s. During a period of extremely difficult economic and environmental conditions rural households relied heavily on social networks, and the capital generated within them, to identify and select potential migration destinations, and to integrate into a destination region very different in agro‐ecological terms than the source areas. By combining archival and secondary data and findings from in‐depth interviews with migration participants, an enhanced understanding was obtained of the relationship between social capital, migration, and adaptation processes during Depression‐era droughts. This case study, and the insights derived from it, is a useful historical analogue from which to improve our understanding of future adaptation and migration responses to anthropogenic climate change under similar socio‐economic and geographical conditions.
Evaluation of the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis in eugonadal men with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Costanzo P. R. , Suárez S. M. , Scaglia H. E. , Zylbersztein C. , Litwak L. E. , Knoblovits P.
Published: November 2013

Men with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM2) have lower testosterone levels and a higher prevalence of hypogonadism. It still remains unclear the mechanism by which there is a relationship between hypogonadism and DM2. The objective was to evaluate the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis at different levels in eugonadal patients with DM2. Fourteen patients with DM2 (DM2 group) and 15 subjects without DM2 (normal glucose tolerance test) as control group (CG) were included. We assessed: (i) fasting glucose, insulin, Homeostasis Model Assessment (HOMA); (ii) luteinizing hormone (LH) pulsatility through blood collections every 10 min for 4 h; (iii) gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) test: basal LH and 30, 60 and 90 min after 100 μg of i.v. GnRH; (iv) human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) test: basal total testosterone (TT), bioavailable testosterone (BT), free testosterone (FT), estradiol (E2), bioavailable E2 (BE2) and sex hormone–binding globulin (SHBG) and 72 h post 5000 IU of i.m. hCG. There were no differences in age, body mass index and waist circumference between groups. Glucose was higher in the DM2 group vs. CG: 131.1 ± 25.5 vs. 99.1 ± 13.6 mg/dL, p = 0.0005. There were no difference in basal insulin, HOMA, TT, BT, FT, E2, BE2, SHBG and LH levels between groups. The DM2 group had lower LH pulse frequency vs. CG: 0.8 ± 0.8 vs. 1.5 ± 0.5 pulses, p = 0.009. Differences in LH pulse amplitude were not found. A negative correlation was found between the number of LH pulses and glucose, r: −0.39, p = 0.03. There were no differences in the response of LH to GnRH between groups nor in the response of sexual steroids and SHBG to hCG. Patients with DM2 showed lower hypothalamic pulse frequency without changes in the pituitary response to GnRH nor testicular response to hCG. Glucose levels negatively correlated with the number of LH pulses which suggests a negative effect of hyperglycaemia in the hypothalamic secretion of GnRH.
The crisis of British democracy: Back to the '70s or stuck in the present?
Authors: Runciman David
Published: November 2013

‘Crises can transform politics; scandals rarely do.’ Drawing a contrast with the ructions of the 1970s, David Runciman argues that British democracy is suffering from a permanent state of scandal which obscures the underlying crisis of elitist managerial politics.
Broken societies: Inequality, cohesion and the middle‐class dream
Authors: Larsen Christian
Published: November 2013

Danish academic Christian Larsen challenges traditional accounts of social cohesion by arguing that the degree to which society is considered ‘broken’ depends largely on how citizens perceive the status of their fellow citizens.
Autonomy‐supportive intervention: an evolutionary concept analysis
Authors: Kayser John W. , Cossette Sylvie , Alderson Marie
Published: November 2013

Aim

This paper is a report of an analysis of the concept of an autonomy‐supportive intervention.

Background

A large proportion of chronic illnesses can be prevented by positive health behaviour changes. The aim of an autonomy‐supportive intervention is to increase perceived autonomy support, which, in turn, increases positive health behaviour changes. Its known core components are choice, rationale and empathy. Identifying and analysing the antecedents, attributes and consequences of an autonomy‐supportive intervention will increase the clarity of this concept.

Design

Concept analysis.

Data Sources

Sources were 63 papers describing an autonomy‐supportive intervention in health behaviour changes indexed in CINAHL, PsycINFO and MEDLINE (all dates until July 2012).

Methods

Rodgers' evolutionary method of concept analysis was used to help identify and analyse the antecedents, attributes and consequences of the concept.

Results

More evolution was found in the disciplines of nursing and psychology compared with medicine in relation to the use of an autonomy‐supportive intervention in theoretical frameworks. The antecedents included assessment prior to intervention delivery, intervention providers' beliefs, and skills training. A lack of homogeneity in the manner in which the attributes were described was found in the literature across disciplines and the attributes were classified under five components instead of three: choice, rationale, empathy, collaboration and strengths.

Conclusion

An autonomy‐supportive intervention is a useful concept across healthcare disciplines and future research should aim at identifying which attributes and components of an autonomy‐supportive intervention may be more effective in increasing perceived autonomy support.
Functional analyses of an E3 ligase gene AIP2 from wheat in Arabidopsis revealed its roles in seed germination and pre‐harvest sprouting
Authors: Gao Dong‐Yao , Xu Zhao‐Shi , He Yi , Sun Yong‐Wei , Ma You‐Zhi , Xia Lan‐Qin
Published: November 2013

Pre‐harvest sprouting (PHS) seriously affects wheat yield and quality of the grain. ABI3 is a key factor in the activation of seed development and repression of germination in Arabidopsis. An ABI3‐interacting protein (AIP2) could polyubiquitinate ABI3, impair seed dormancy and promote seed germination in Arabidopsis. In this study, two wheat AIP2 genes, TaAIP2A and TaAIP2B, were isolated. Subcellular localization assay and yeast two‐hybrid analysis revealed that TaAIP2A and TaAIP2B may function through interaction with wheat Viviporous‐1 (TaVp1). The transcripts TaAIP2A and TaAIP2B were more abundant in wheat PHS susceptible cultivars than that of resistant ones, and decreased gradually following seed development. Expression of TaAIP2A and TaAIP2B in Arabidopsis aip2‐1 mutant lines resulted in earlier flowering, promotion of seed germination, and reduced ABA sensitivity, respectively, somehow mimicking the phenotype of the wild type, with TaAIP2B having a stronger role in these aspects. Furthermore, the expression of upstream genes ABI1 and ABI2 were upregulated, whereas that of downstream genes ABI3 and ABI5 were downregulated in both TaAIP2A and TaAIP2B complemented lines upon ABA treatment. These results suggested that wheat AIP2s could negatively regulate the ABA signaling pathway and play important roles in seed germination, and thus wheat PHS resistance finally.
Application of the “Hybrid Approach” to Chronic Total Occlusion Interventions: A Detailed Procedural Analysis
Authors: MICHAEL TESFALDET T. , MOGABGAB OWEN , FUH ERIC , PATEL VISHAL G. , EL SABBAGH ABDALLAH , ALOMAR MOHAMMED E. , RANGAN BAVANA V. , ABDULLAH SHUAIB M. , BANERJEE SUBHASH , BRILAKIS EMMANOUIL S.
Published: November 2013

Objective

To assess the outcomes of the “hybrid” approach to chronic total occlusion (CTO) percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs).

Background

The “hybrid approach” to CTO PCI advocates appropriate and early change of crossing strategy to maximize success, safety, and efficiency.

Methods

We prospectively recorded and analyzed detailed step‐by‐step procedural data in 73 consecutive CTO PCI cases performed by a single operator between July 2011 and August 2012.

Results

Technical success was achieved in 66 of 73 cases (90.4%). Mean patient age was 65 ± 7 years, and 30% had prior coronary artery bypass surgery. Dual injection was used in 78%. The primary approach was retrograde in 9 cases (12.5%) and antegrade in 64 cases (87.5%), of whom 25 cases (39.1%) underwent retrograde attempt after failed antegrade approach. The initial crossing approach was successful in 40 cases (54.8%), but 32 cases (44%) required 3.6 ± 1.4 approach changes (range 2–7). Antegrade wire escalation, antegrade dissection/reentry, and retrograde crossing were utilized in 97.2%, 46.6%, and 46.6% of cases, respectively. Among successful cases, the final CTO crossing technique was antegrade wire escalation in 50.0%, antegrade dissection/reentry in 24.2%, and retrograde in 25.8%. The mean procedure time, fluoroscopy time, and air kerma radiation exposure until CTO crossing or stopping the procedure were 66 ± 55 minutes, 25 ± 23 minutes, and 2.3 ± 1.9 Gray, respectively. Three patients (4.1%) had a major complication.

Conclusion

In the “hybrid approach” to CTO PCI, changes in crossing strategy were needed in approximately half the cases, resulting in high success and low complication rates. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:36–43)
Differences in the Clinical and Angiographic Characteristics of Chronic Total Occlusion Lesions in the Three Major Coronary Arteries
Authors: HASEGAWA TASUKU , GODINO COSMO , BASAVARAJAIAH SANDEEP , TAKAGI KENSUKE , REZQ AHMED , LATIB AZEEM , ALAIDE CHIEFFO , MONTORFANO MATTEO , CARLINO MAURO , COLOMBO ANTONIO
Published: November 2013

Objectives

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the differences in the clinical and angiographic characteristics of chronic total occlusion (CTO) lesions among the 3 major coronary arteries (LAD, LCx, and RCA).

Background

The success rate of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) of CTO lesions is not uniform among the 3 major coronary arteries and this may be influenced by the differences in angiographic and clinical characteristics that may exists between them.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated clinical and angiographic characteristics of patients who underwent PCI of CTO lesions at our 2 centers between 2003 and 2010.

Results

We analyzed 708 CTO‐PCI procedures between 2003 and 2010. The CTO lesions were located in LAD: 222 (31.4%), LCx: 167 (23.6%), and RCA: 319 (45.0%). Patients with CTO in LAD had lower incidence of previous history of PCI and CABG compared to those with CTO lesions in LCx or RCA. In regard to angiographic findings, LAD lesions tended to have more side branches and blunt occlusion stump. The LCx lesions presented more frequently as a part of multivessel disease. RCA lesions were significantly longer, more severely angulated, and calcified. Good collateral circulations were more often encountered in the RCA. In regard to success rates, RCA showed lower procedural success rates (71.8%) followed by LAD (74.8%) and LCx (79.0%).

Conclusions

There were several differences in the clinical and angiographic characteristics of CTO lesions among the 3 major coronary arteries. These differences can explain the discrepancy in procedure success rates. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:44–49)
Cultural consultation as a model for training multidisciplinary mental healthcare professionals in cultural competence skills: preliminary results
Authors: Owiti J. A. , Ajaz A. , Ascoli M. , de Jongh B. , Palinski A. , Bhui K. S.
Published: November 2013

Accessible summary

Lack of cultural competence in care contributes to poor experiences and outcomes from care for migrants and racial and ethnic minorities. As a result, health and social care organizations currently promote cultural competence of their workforce as a means of addressing persistent poor experiences and outcomes.

At present, there are unsystematic and diverse ways of promoting cultural competence, and their impact on clinician skills and patient outcomes is unknown.

We developed and implemented an innovative model, cultural consultation service (CCS), to promote cultural competence of clinicians and directly improve on patient experiences and outcomes from care. CCS model is an adaptation of the McGill model, which uses ethnographic methodology and medical anthropological knowledge. The method and approach not only contributes both to a broader conceptual and dynamic understanding of culture, but also to learning of cultural competence skills by healthcare professionals.

The CCS model demonstrates that multidisciplinary workforce can acquire cultural competence skills better through the clinical encounter, as this promotes integration of learning into day‐to‐day practice. Results indicate that clinicians developed a broader and patient‐centred understanding of culture, and gained skills in narrative‐based assessment method, management of complexity of care, competing assumptions and expectations, and clinical cultural formulation.

Cultural competence is defined as a set of skills, attitudes and practices that enable the healthcare professionals to deliver high‐quality interventions to patients from diverse cultural backgrounds. Improving on the cultural competence skills of the workforce has been promoted as a way of reducing ethnic and racial inequalities in service outcomes. Currently, diverse models for training in cultural competence exist, mostly with no evidence of effect. We established an innovative narrative‐based cultural consultation service in an inner‐city area to work with community mental health services to improve on patients' outcomes and clinicians' cultural competence skills. We targeted 94 clinicians in four mental health service teams in the community. After initial training sessions, we used a cultural consultation model to facilitate ‘in vivo’ learning. During cultural consultation, we used an ethnographic interview method to assess patients in the presence of referring clinicians. Clinicians' self‐reported measure of cultural competence using the Tool for Assessing Cultural Competence Training (n = 28, at follow‐up) and evaluation forms (n = 16) filled at the end of each cultural consultation showed improvement in cultural competence skills. We conclude that cultural consultation model is an innovative way of training clinicians in cultural competence skills through a dynamic interactive process of learning within real clinical encounters.
Outcome following liver lobectomy using thoracoabdominal staplers in cats
Authors: Pavia P. R. , Kovak‐McClaran J. , Lamb K.
Published: November 2013

Objectives

To present outcomes and complications following liver lobectomy using thoracoabdominal staplers in cats, to identify factors associated with survival time and to confirm safety and feasibility.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of case records (n=18) of cats that underwent liver lobectomy with a thoracoabdominal stapler.

Results

Fourteen of the 18 cats (78%) survived to discharge. Median survival time was 136·5 days. On log‐rank univariate analysis, preoperative abdominal fluid (P=0·002), preoperative anaemia (P=0·03) and perioperative transfusion (P=0·01) were associated with decreased survival time. Perioperative anaemia was common (89%), and rate of transfusion during hospitalisation was 61%. Clinical signs of illness, azotaemia, elevated liver enzyme activities and malignant neoplasia did not appear to impact survival; however, anaemia, abdominal fluid and transfusion may be associated with decreased survival time.

Clinical Significance

Liver lobectomy using thoracoabdominal staplers was effective in removal of hepatic lesions and all cats survived surgery. Outcome was negatively associated with preoperative abdominal fluid (haemorrhagic and non‐haemorrhagic), preoperative anaemia or perioperative transfusion. Surgeons should be prepared to employ ancillary methods of haemostasis to augment the staple line, and need for blood transfusion should be anticipated.
Fitting and Forecasting Sovereign Defaults using Multiple Risk Signals
Authors: Savona Roberto , Vezzoli Marika
Published: November 2013

In this article, we try to realize the best compromise between in‐sample goodness of fit and out‐of‐sample predictability of sovereign defaults. To do this, we use a new regression‐tree based approach that signals impending sovereign debt crises whenever pre‐selected indicators exceed specific thresholds. Using data from emerging markets and Greece, Ireland, Portugal and Spain (GIPS) over the period 1975–2010, we show that our model significantly outperforms existing competing approaches (logit, stepwise logit, noise‐to‐signal ratio and regression trees), while balancing in‐ and out‐of‐sample performance. Our results indicate that illiquidity (high short‐term debt to reserves) and default history, together with real GDP growth and US interest rates, are the main determinants of both emerging market country defaults and the recent European sovereign debt crisis.
Morphological and anatomical determinants of mesophyll conductance in wild relatives of tomato (Solanum sect. Lycopersicon, sect. Lycopersicoides; Solanaceae)
Authors: MUIR CHRISTOPHER D. , HANGARTER ROGER P. , MOYLE LEONIE C. , DAVIS PHILLIP A.
Published: November 2013

Natural selection on photosynthetic performance is a primary factor determining leaf phenotypes. The complex CO2 diffusion path from substomatal cavities to the chloroplasts – the mesophyll conductance (gm) – limits photosynthetic rate in many species and hence shapes variation in leaf morphology and anatomy. Among sclerophyllous and succulent taxa, structural investment in leaves, measured as the leaf dry mass per area (LMA), has been implicated in decreased gm. However, in herbaceous taxa with high gm, it is less certain how LMA impacts CO2 diffusion and whether it significantly affects photosynthetic performance. We addressed these questions in the context of understanding the ecophysiological significance of leaf trait variation in wild tomatoes, a closely related group of herbaceous perennials. Although gm was high in wild tomatoes, variation in gm significantly affected photosynthesis. Even in these tender‐leaved herbaceous species, greater LMA led to reduced gm. This relationship between gm and LMA is partially mediated by cell packing and leaf thickness, although amphistomy (equal distribution of stomata on both sides of the leaf) mitigates the effect of leaf thickness. Understanding the costs of increased LMA will inform future work on the adaptive significance of leaf trait variation across ecological gradients in wild tomatoes and other systems.
Identification of PLX4032‐resistance mechanisms and implications for novel RAF inhibitors
Authors: Choi Jaehyuk , Landrette Sean F. , Wang Tiffany , Evans Perry , Bacchiocchi Antonella , Bjornson Robert , Cheng Elaine , Stiegler Amy L. , Gathiaka Symon , Acevedo Orlando , Boggon Titus J. , Krauthammer Michael , Halaban Ruth , Xu Tian
Published: November 2013

BRAF inhibitors improve melanoma patient survival, but resistance invariably develops. Here we report the discovery of a novel BRAF mutation that confers resistance to PLX4032 employing whole‐exome sequencing of drug‐resistant BRAFV600K melanoma cells. We further describe a new screening approach, a genome‐wide piggyBac mutagenesis screen that revealed clinically relevant aberrations (N‐terminal BRAF truncations and CRAF overexpression). The novel BRAF mutation, a Leu505 to His substitution (BRAFL505H), is the first resistance‐conferring second‐site mutation identified in BRAF mutant cells. The mutation replaces a small nonpolar amino acid at the BRAF‐PLX4032 interface with a larger polar residue. Moreover, we show that BRAFL505H, found in human prostate cancer, is itself a MAPK‐activating, PLX4032‐resistant oncogenic mutation. Lastly, we demonstrate that the PLX4032‐resistant melanoma cells are sensitive to novel, next‐generation BRAF inhibitors, especially the ‘paradox‐blocker’ PLX8394, supporting its use in clinical trials for treatment of melanoma patients with BRAF‐mutations.
Role for immune monitoring to tailor induction prophylaxis in pediatric heart recipients
Authors: Thrush Philip T. , Gossett Jeffrey G. , Costello John M. , Matthews Kathleen L. , Nubani Reem , Bhagat Hardik , Backer Carl L. , Pahl Elfriede
Published: November 2013

rATG is used for HTx induction but is costly and associated with infection and PTLD. Hypothesis: Tailoring rATG induction with CD3 monitoring results in less infection, reduced costs, and similar rejection. Retrospective review of HTx recipients receiving rATG induction. Control cases received “usual” rATG dosing (1.5 mg/kg/day typically × 5 days). Starting in October 2009, absolute CD3 monitoring (target <25 cells/mm3) guided rATG dosing (study cases). Outcomes included first‐year incidence of infection/rejection, direct costs of therapy, and incidence of PTLD/death. Study cases (n = 32) received fewer doses of rATG (median 4 vs. 5, p < 0.001) and less total rATG (median 3.2 vs. 7.4 mg/kg, p < 0.001) compared with controls (n = 17). There was no difference in incidence of infection, rejection, or patient survival during the first year post‐HTx. There was one early death in both groups and one late case of PTLD in the control group. Drug savings were significant (median drug cost per patient $2718 vs. $4756, p < 0.001). CD3‐tailored rATG induction in HTx recipients is associated with reduced drug costs and similar rates of rejection/infection. Longer follow‐up will determine whether extended benefits are associated with this induction monitoring strategy.
Tacrolimus‐related seizure after pediatric liver transplantation – A single‐center experience
Authors: Xie Man , Rao Wei , Sun Li‐Ying , Zhu Zhi‐Jun , Deng Yong‐Lin , Shen Zhong‐Yang , Jia Ji‐Dong
Published: November 2013

To identify the risk factors for new‐onset seizures after pediatric LT and to assess their clinical implications and long‐term prognosis. The clinical and laboratory data of 27 consecutive children who underwent LT from January 2007 to December 2010 in our center were analyzed retrospectively. Patients were divided into seizures group and a non‐seizures group. Pre‐operative, intra‐operative, and post‐operative data were collected. Seizures occurred in four children, an incidence of 14.8%. All exhibited generalized tonic–clonic seizures within the first two wk after LT. Univariate analysis showed that the risk factors associated with seizures after pediatric LT included gender, pediatric end‐stage liver disease score before surgery, Child–Pugh score before surgery, serum total bilirubin after surgery, and trough TAC level. Multivariate analysis showed that trough TAC level was the only independent risk factor associated with the seizures. All children who experienced seizures survived with good graft function and remained seizure‐free without anti‐epileptic drugs over a mean follow‐up period of 33.7 ± 14.6 months. High trough TAC level was the predominant factor that contributed to seizures in the early post‐operative period after pediatric LT. High PELD and Child‐Pugh scores before LT and high post‐operative serum Tbil may be contributory risk factors for TAC‐related seizures.
Qualitative Methods for the Study of Policy Diffusion: Challenges and Available Solutions
Authors: Starke Peter
Published: November 2013

This article deals with the question whether and how processes of policy diffusion can be examined with qualitative methods. More specifically, how can qualitative methods address the “twin challenge of interdependence,” namely the challenge to identify diffusion, on the one hand, and the challenge to discriminate between mechanisms of diffusion, on the other? I argue, first, that there are three distinct qualitative techniques that can be used, namely cross‐case analysis (often based on systematic case selection), within‐case process tracing, and counterfactual reasoning. I demonstrate how these techniques can be adapted to the study of policy diffusion. Second, a combination of these methods is the best practice, since they are largely complementary in terms of the twin challenge of diffusion. The discussion draws on numerous illustrations from recent qualitative policy diffusion studies. The article closes with some suggestions for further methodological development in the study of policy diffusion, including the combination of quantitative and qualitative methods.