bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A case–control study of determinants for the occurrence of gouty arthritis in heart failure patients
Authors: Hueskes Berdine A.A. , Willems Frank F. , Leen Aukelien C. , Ninaber Patricia A. , Westra Richard , Mantel‐Teeuwisse Aukje K. , Janssens Hein J.E.M. , van de Lisdonk Eloy H. , Roovers Elisabeth A. , Janssen Matthijs
Published: June 2012

Aims

Gouty arthritis is a frequent and disabling complication in heart failure patients. This study aimed to investigate which factors are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis in these patients.

Methods and results

A case–control study was performed in heart failure patients (February 2007 to October 2009). Cases were defined as patients with gouty arthritis. Factors that are possibly associated with gouty arthritis and/or heart failure were evaluated. Echocardiographic dimensions and laboratory values including glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and fractional excretion of uric acid (FEUA) were measured. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for possibly associated factors. In total, 188 patients (59 with gouty arthritis) were included. Spironolactone use was associated with a decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13–0.77). Independently associated with an increased occurrence of gouty arthritis were hypertensive heart failure (OR 3.6, 95% CI 1.6–8.2), New York Heart Association (NYHA) class III/IV (OR 4.5, 95% CI 1.8–11.0), lower GFR (P < 0.001), and FEUA <4% (OR 3.3, 95% CI 1.4–7.9). Among the four age/gender groups, the strongest association with gouty arthritis was found in men <65 years.

Conclusion

Our identification of factors that are associated with the occurrence of gouty arthritis makes it possible to develop strategies to improve further the quality of life in heart failure patients. The possible decreased occurrence of gouty arthritis in spironolactone users has to be confirmed in prospective studies.
Optimizing surveillance for livestock disease spreading through animal movements
Authors: Bajardi Paolo , Barrat Alain , Savini Lara , Colizza Vittoria
Published: June 2012

The spatial propagation of many livestock infectious diseases critically depends on the animal movements among premises; so the knowledge of movement data may help us to detect, manage and control an outbreak. The identification of robust spreading features of the system is however hampered by the temporal dimension characterizing population interactions through movements. Traditional centrality measures do not provide relevant information as results strongly fluctuate in time and outbreak properties heavily depend on geotemporal initial conditions. By focusing on the case study of cattle displacements in Italy, we aim at characterizing livestock epidemics in terms of robust features useful for planning and control, to deal with temporal fluctuations, sensitivity to initial conditions and missing information during an outbreak. Through spatial disease simulations, we detect spreading paths that are stable across different initial conditions, allowing the clustering of the seeds and reducing the epidemic variability. Paths also allow us to identify premises, called sentinels, having a large probability of being infected and providing critical information on the outbreak origin, as encoded in the clusters. This novel procedure provides a general framework that can be applied to specific diseases, for aiding risk assessment analysis and informing the design of optimal surveillance systems.
Corrections for surface X-ray diffraction measurements using theZ-axis geometry: finite size effects in direct and reciprocal space
Authors: Robach O. , Garreau Y. , Aïd K. , Véron-Jolliot M. B.
Published: June 2012

X-ray diffraction data have to be corrected by geometrical correction factors prior to any quantitative analysis. Here the case of grazing incidence X-ray diffraction measurements is considered, including the case of high exit angles. First, an approach taking into account the evolution of the diffracting area during an ω scan is presented. From the calculation of the effective part of the sample surface that participates in the diffraction phenomena at each step of the scan, a more accurate correction factor than those commonly used is derived and the evolution of the line shape along a zero-width rod is explained. Secondly, the case of finite-width rods, under the point-like sample approximation, is considered: the influence of the partial integration, as a result of the detector in-plane acceptance, of a rod with an anisotropic in-plane shape, is studied and leads to an analytical expression for the corresponding correction factor. Finally, a full numerical simulation is presented, which provides an alternative method for correcting the experimental intensities and shows in which conditions the previous formulae are no longer valid.
Elimination of asbestos use and asbestos‐related diseases: An unfinished story
Authors: Park Eun‐Kee , Takahashi Ken , Jiang Ying , Movahed Mehrnoosh , Kameda Takashi
Published: June 2012

Asbestos is a proven human carcinogen. Asbestos‐related diseases (ARDs) typically comprise lung cancer, malignant mesothelioma, asbestosis, pleural plaques, thickening and effusion. International organizations, notably the World Health Organization and the International Labour Organization, have repeatedly declared the need to eliminate ARDs, and have called on countries to stop using asbestos. However, the relevant national‐level indicators (e.g., incidence/mortality rates and per capita asbestos use, as well as their interrelationships) indicate that ARDs are increasing and asbestos use is continuing in the world. Lessons learned by industrialized countries in terms of policy and science have led to a growing number of countries adopting bans. In contrast, industrializing countries are faced with a myriad of forces prompting them to continue using asbestos. Full‐scale international cooperation will thus be needed, with industrialized countries sharing their experiences and technologies to enable industrializing countries to make smooth transitions to banned states and achieve the goal of eliminating ARDs.
Affordability of alcohol as a key driver of alcohol demand in New Zealand: a co‐integration analysis
Authors: Wall Martin , Casswell Sally
Published: June 2012

Aims

To investigate whether affordability of alcohol is an important determinant of alcohol consumption along with price. This will inform effective tax policy to influence consumption.

Design

Co‐integration analysis was used to analyse relationship between real price, affordability and consumption. Changes in retail availability of wine in 1990 and beer in 1999 were also included in the models. The econometric approach taken allows identification of short‐ and long‐term responses. Separate analyses were performed for wine, beer, spirits and ready‐to‐drinks (spirits based pre‐mixed drinks).

Setting

New Zealand 1988–2011.

Measurements

Quarterly data on price and alcohol available for consumption for wine, beer, spirits and ready‐to‐drinks. Price data were analysed as: real price (own price of alcohol relative to the price of other goods) and affordability (average earnings relative to own price).

Findings

There was strong evidence for co‐integration between wine and beer consumption and affordability. There was weaker evidence for co‐integration between consumption and real price.

Conclusions

The affordability of alcohol is more important than real price in determining consumption of alcohol. This suggests that affordability needs to be considered by policy makers when determining tax and pricing policies to reduce alcohol‐related harm.
Impaired processing of emotion in music, faces and voices supports a generalized emotional decoding deficit in alcoholism
Authors: Kornreich Charles , Brevers Damien , Canivet Delphine , Ermer Elsa , Naranjo Cecilia , Constant Eric , Verbanck Paul , Campanella Salvatore , Noël Xavier
Published: June 2012

Aim

To test the generalized emotional decoding impairment hypothesis in alcoholism.

Design

Cross‐sectional behavioural study comparing emotion recognition conveyed by faces, voices and musical excerpts.

Setting

Alcohol detoxification unit of Brugmann University Hospital.

Participants

Twenty‐five recently detoxified alcohol‐dependent patients were compared to 25 normal controls matched for sex, age and educational level.

Measurements

From faces, voices and musical excerpts, participants were instructed to rate the intensity of several emotions on a scale from 0 for ‘absent’ to 9 for ‘highly present’. Depression, anxiety and sustained/selective attention capacities were controlled for.

Findings

Alcohol‐dependent patients were less accurate than controls in identifying the target emotion in faces (P < 0.001), voices (P < 0.001) and musical excerpts (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Alcohol‐dependent patients who are completing detoxification are impaired in recognizing emotions conveyed by faces, voices and music; these results suggest a generalized emotional decoding impairment. Hypothetically, deficits in the fronto‐parietal mirror neurone system could link all these disturbances together.
The effect of human immunodeficiency virus-1 on monocyte-derived dendritic cell maturation and function
Authors: Fairman P , Angel J B
Published: June 2012

Dendritic cells (DC) are mediators of the adaptive immune response responsible for antigen presentation to naive T cells in secondary lymph organs. Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) has been reported to inhibit the maturation of DC, but a clear link between maturation and function has not been elucidated. To understand further the effects of HIV-1 on DC maturation and function, we expanded upon previous investigations and assessed the effects of HIV-1 infection on the expression of surface molecules, carbohydrate endocytosis, antigen presentation and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) responsiveness over the course of maturation. In vitro infection with HIV-1 resulted in an increase in the expression of DC-specific intercellular adhesion molecule-3-grabbing non-integrin (DC-SIGN) as well as decreases in maturation-induced CCR7 and major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-II expression. Retention of endocytosis that normally occurs with DC maturation as well as inhibition of antigen presentation to CD8+ T cells was also observed. Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) responsiveness to LPS as measured by phosphorylation of p38, c-Jun N-terminal kinase (JNK) and extracellular-regulated kinase (ERK)1/2 was not affected by HIV-1 infection. In summary, in-vitro HIV-1 impairs DC maturation, as defined by cell surface protein expression, with selective alterations in mature DC function. Understanding the mechanisms of DC dysfunction in HIV infection will provide further insight into HIV immune pathogenesis.
Leaf and tiller dynamics in two competingC3grass species: influence of neighbours and nitrogen on morphogenetic traits
Authors: Gatti M. L. , Ayala Torales A. T. , Cipriotti P. A. , Golluscio R. A.
Published: June 2012

The objective of this work was to analyse the competitive interactions betweenBromus willdenowiiKunth. (BW = prairie grass) and a perennialC3grassDactylis glomerataL. (DG = cocksfoot) through morphogenetic traits, during pasture establishment. Four combinations of species (pureBW, pureDG,DGflanked byBWandBWflanked byDGplants), with and without winter nitrogen fertilization, were factorially arranged in a complete random block design. Data were recorded on three tiller age cohorts of the central target plant: the main stem and those that appeared 20 and 30 days after fertilization (daf). Leaf elongation rate (LER) of the older tillers was the only variable affected by nitrogen addition. Annual neighbours, which showed higherLERthan perennial ones, caused a decrease in leaf lifespan in the younger tillers and a delay in the leaf appearance rate on the main stem and on 20‐daf tillers, and the tiller appearance rate. Annual neighbours controlled leaf and tiller dynamics and therefore restricted the vertical and horizontal space occupation of the target plant. These results reinforce the advantage of using a low seeding rate for the annual species to avoid negative effects on perennial grass establishment and persistence.
Theoretical approaches to gender and IT: examining some Australian evidence
Authors: Ridley Gail , Young Judy
Published: June 2012

Researchers have sought a theoretical perspective to explain the under‐representation of women in the information technology (IT) workforce of many nations. Gender imbalance limits the size and skill sets of IT human resources. The essentialist theory, social construction theory and individual differences theory of gender and IT have been proposed to account for the IT gender gap. This study examined evidence for these theories to explain this gap through content analysis of articles published in the national newspaper, The Australian, over three time periods. Newspaper articles report implicit theoretical perspectives on IT and gender and influence the views of the Australian public, including women. While evidence to support all theories was found over the three periods, the essentialist theory was dominant. Increased utility of the individual differences theory to account for the IT gender gap was seen in 2007–2008. The primary contribution of this study is to provide evidence that suggests that theoretical approaches, whether implicit or explicit, shape how people understand the under‐representation of women in the IT workforce. Media interventions are proposed to help redress the imbalance through increased awareness.
Delimiting the geographical background in species distribution modelling
Authors: Acevedo Pelayo , Jiménez‐Valverde Alberto , Lobo Jorge M. , Real Raimundo
Published: June 2012

Aim  The extent of the study area (geographical background, GB) can strongly affect the results of species distribution models (SDMs), but as yet we lack objective and practicable criteria for delimiting the appropriate GB. We propose an approach to this problem using trend surface analysis (TSA) and provide an assessment of the effects of varying GB extent on the performance of SDMs for four species.

Location  Mainland Spain.

Methods  Using data for four well known wild ungulate species and different GBs delimited with a TSA, we assessed the effects of GB extent on the predictive performance of SDMs: specifically on model calibration (Miller’s statistic) and discrimination (area under the curve of the receiver operating characteristic plot, AUC; sensitivity and specificity), and on the tendency of the models to predict environmental potential when they are projected beyond their training area.

Results  In the training area, discrimination significantly increased and calibration decreased as the GB was enlarged. In contrast, as GB was enlarged, both discriminatory power and calibration decreased when assessed in the core area of the species distributions. When models trained using small GBs were projected beyond their training area, they showed a tendency to predict higher environmental potential for the species than those models trained using large GBs.

Main conclusions  By restricting GB extent using a geographical criterion, model performance in the core area of the species distribution can be significantly improved. Large GBs make models demonstrate high discriminatory power but are barely informative. By delimiting GB using a geographical criterion, the effect of historical events on model parameterization may be reduced. Thus purely environmental models are obtained that, when projected onto a new scenario, depict the potential distribution of the species. We therefore recommend the use of TSA in geographically delimiting the GB for use in SDMs.
Different approaches to expressing Edwardsiella tarda antigen GAPDH in attenuated Vibrio anguillarum for multivalent fish vaccines
Authors: Zheng Y , Xiao Y , Wu H , Wang Q , Xiao J , Zhang Y , Liu Q
Published: June 2012

With the development of gene technology, expressing heterologous antigens in attenuated bacteria has become an important strategy to design multivalent vaccines. In our previous work, an attenuated Vibrio anguillarum named MVAV6203 was developed and proven to be an efficient live vaccine candidate. In this research, we aimed to express protective antigen glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) of Edwardsiella tarda in attenuated Vibrio anguillarum to establish a multivalent V. anguillarum vector vaccine. Several strategies were compared between low‐ vs. high‐copy plasmid‐mediated antigen expression, in vivo‐inducible vs. constitutive antigen expression and intracellular vs. surface‐displaying antigen expression. Zebrafish, Danio rerio (Hamilton), was applied as the fish model to evaluate the immune protection of the V. anguillarum vector vaccine candidates. Our results demonstrated that V. anguillarum MVAV6203 (pUTatLNG40), which harbours a low‐copy plasmid‐loaded antigen surface display system under the control of a constitutive promoter, presented the best protective efficacy against the infection of Vibrio anguillarum (relative per cent survival, RPS = 85%) and Edwardsiella tarda (RPS = 70%).
Germline RAD51C mutations in ovarian cancer susceptibility
Authors: Coulet F , Fajac A , Colas C , Eyries M , Dion‐Minière A , Rouzier R , Uzan S , Lefranc J‐P , Carbonnel M , Cornelis F , Cortez A , Soubrier F
Published: June 2012

Several genes might explain BRCA1/2 negative breast and ovarian family cases. Deleterious mutations in few genes involved in the Fanconi complex are responsible for Fanconi anemia at the homozygous state and breast cancer (BC) susceptibility at the heterozygous state (BRCA2, PALB2, BRIP1). RAD51C plays an important role in the double‐strand break repair pathway and a biallelic missense mutation in the RAD51C gene was found in a Fanconi anemia‐like disorder. Subsequently, six monoallelic pathogenic mutations were identified after screening 480 BRCA1/2 negative breast and ovarian cancer (BC/OC) pedigrees. Several reports were unsuccessful to replicate these results. To investigate whether germline mutations in RAD51C are associated with an increased risk of developing BC/OC, we screened, by Sanger sequencing of the coding sequence, 117 index cases of breast and ovarian families from French or European origin, and negative for BRCA1/2 mutations. In our study, we found 3 pathogenic mutations among 117 families screened which corresponds to a 2.6% frequency. Our results confirm that RAD51C is a susceptibility gene for ovarian and BC and that this gene should be screened for mutations in families with multiple BC/OC.
A Study on the Overwintering of Cucumber Downy Mildew Oospores in China
Authors: Zhang Yan‐ju , Pu Zi‐jing , Qin Zhi‐wei , Zhou Xiu‐yan , Liu Dong , Dai Li‐ting , Wang Wen‐bo
Published: June 2012

Oospore formation of Pseudoperonospora cubensis was investigated in 10 Chinese locations: Mohe, Harbin, Changchun, Shenyang, Beijing, Liaocheng, Yinchuan, Xining, Yangling and Haikou. Oospores were observed in all but Haikou. Oospore viability was monitored from 10 January to 10 July 2009, in Harbin. Percentages of activated oospores increased from 10 April with a peak in late May (14.0% on 25 May 2009), and then decreased. This is in accordance with the usual time of downy mildew appearance in Harbin, 20–30 May. Inoculation tests using the oospores overwintered in Harbin, whether in the greenhouse or outdoors, showed that these were viable, with a disease occurrence of 26.6–95.0%. Oospores overwintering locally could be primary infection sources of downy mildew in cool temperate northern China.
Effects of Long‐Term Storage Methods on the Infectivity of Urediospores of Phakopsora pachyrhizi
Authors: Schmitz Helena Katharina , Stammler Gerd
Published: June 2012

A method for long‐term storage of spores of Phakopsora pachyrhizi was optimized. Three methods with different procedures for spore harvest and four different reactivation methods (varying in hydration or using heat shock) were analysed for the suitability for long‐term storage at −80°C. All conservation methods as well as all reactivation methods lead to the infection of soybean leaves after 1 year of storage. Regarding efficiency and labour input, the most recommended method is to tap off spores from infected and sporulating leaves with subsequent dehydration before storage at −80°C. Because hydration or heat shock steps did not provide any advantages, spores can be suspended in Tween water directly after storage and used as inoculum.
Multiple secondary cutaneous tumours following electron beam radiotherapy for cutaneous malignancies of the scalp
Authors: Wolfe Christopher M , Green W Harris , Hatfield H Keith , Shakar Thomas J , Baniahmad Omid , Cognetta Armand B
Published: June 2012

Electron beam radiation is a commonly used and effective treatment modality for cutaneous malignancies. Secondary cutaneous malignancies arising in electron beam treatment sites are rarely reported. We report on seven patients who developed multiple secondary tumours arising within and immediately around electron beam radiation treatment sites in the setting of treatment for diffuse primary disease or as adjunctive therapy for aggressive cutaneous malignancies.
Rapamycin‐mediated suppression of renal cyst expansion in del34 Pkd1−/− mutant mouse embryos: An investigation of the feasibility of renal cyst prevention in the foetus
Authors: STAYNER CHERIE , SHIELDS JUSTIN , SLOBBE LYNN , SHILLINGFORD JONATHAN M , WEIMBS THOMAS , ECCLES MICHAEL R
Published: June 2012

Aim:  Polycystic kidney disease (PKD) in humans involves kidney cyst expansion beginning in utero. Recessive PKD can result in end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) within the first decade, whereas autosomal dominant PKD (ADPKD), caused by mutations in the PKD1 or PKD2 gene, typically leads to ESRD by the fifth decade of life. Inhibition of mTOR signalling was recently found to halt cyst formation in adult ADPKD mice. In contrast, no studies have investigated potential treatments to prevent cyst formation in utero in recessive PKD. Given that homozygous Pkd1 mutant mice exhibit cyst formation in utero, we decided to investigate whether mTOR inhibition in utero ameliorates kidney cyst formation in foetal Pkd1 homozygous mutant mice.

Methods:  Pregnant Pkd1+/− female mice (mated with Pkd1+/− male mice) were treated with rapamycin from E14.5 to E17.5. Foetal kidneys were dissected, genotyped and evaluated by cyst size as well as expression of the developmental marker, Pax2.

Results:  Numerous cysts were present in Pkd1−/− kidneys, which were twice the weight of wild‐type kidneys. Cyst size was reduced by a third in rapamycin‐treated Pkd1−/− kidney sections and kidney mass was reduced to near wild‐type levels. However, total cyst number was not reduced compared with control embryos. Pax2 expression and kidney development were unaltered in rapamycin‐treated mice but some lethality was observed in Pkd1−/− null embryos.

Conclusion:  Rapamycin treatment reduces cyst formation in Pkd1−/− mutant mice; therefore, the prevention of kidney cyst expansion in utero by mTOR inhibition is feasible. However, selective rapamycin‐associated lethality limits its usefulness as a treatment in utero.
Air pollution: Impact and prevention
Authors: SIERRA‐VARGAS MARTHA PATRICIA , TERAN LUIS M.
Published: June 2012

Air pollution is becoming a major health problem that affects millions of people worldwide. In support of this observation, the World Health Organization estimates that every year, 2.4 million people die because of the effects of air pollution on health. Mitigation strategies such as changes in diesel engine technology could result in fewer premature mortalities, as suggested by the US Environmental Protection Agency. This review: (i) discusses the impact of air pollution on respiratory disease; (ii) provides evidence that reducing air pollution may have a positive impact on the prevention of disease; and (iii) demonstrates the impact concerted polices may have on population health when governments take actions to reduce air pollution.
Effects of resistance training on the performance of activities of daily living in patients with Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Garuffi Marcelo , Costa José Luiz Riani , Hernández Salma Sthephany Soleman , Vital Thays Martins , Stein Angelica Miki , Santos Julimara Gomes dos , Stella Florindo
Published: June 2012

Aim:  The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of resistance training in activities of daily living performance in Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients.

Methods:  An exploratory and longitudinal study, lasting for 16 weeks, with the participation of 34 patients divided equally in: the training group (TG), who participated in a resistance training protocol (three sets of 20 repetitions in five exercises); and the social gathering group (SGG), who participated in a social interaction protocol (i.e. group dynamics, writing and reading activities).

Results:  We observed significant differences between the groups in moving around the house, climbing stairs, standing up from the floor and putting on socks tests.

Conclusion:  This study showed that resistance training improves agility, lower limb strength, balance and flexibility in AD patients, while SGG protocol is important to improve the agility. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 322–328.
More than half of hip fracture patients do not regain mobility in the first postoperative year
Authors: Vochteloo Anne JH , Moerman Sophie , Tuinebreijer Wim E , Maier Andrea B , de Vries Mark R , Bloem Rolf M , Nelissen Rob GHH , Pilot Peter
Published: June 2012

Aim:  To measure functional recovery and determine risk factors for failure to return to the prefracture level of mobility of hip fracture patients 1 year postoperatively.

Methods:  A prospective cohort follow‐up study of 390 hip fracture patients aged 65 years and older was carried out. Patients were stratified in categories based on prefracture mobility: mobile without aid, with aid in‐ and outdoors, or only mobile indoors. Immobile patients were excluded. Risk factors for not regaining prefracture mobility were identified.

Results:  Nearly half of all patients regained their prefracture level of mobility after 1 year. Mobile patients without an aid were less likely to return to their prefracture mobility level compared with patients who were mobile with aid or mobile indoors. After 1 year, 18.7% of all patients had become immobile. Most important independent risk factors for failure to return to the prefracture level of mobility were a limited prefracture level of activities of daily living and a delirium during admission.

Conclusions:  The risk not to regain prefracture mobility is highest in mobile patients without an aid. The risk of becoming immobile is higher in those having a lower prefracture mobility. Activities of daily living dependence and delirium were the main risk factors for not regaining mobility. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 334–341.
Shell biofilm‐associated nitrous oxide production in marine molluscs: processes, precursors and relative importance
Authors: Heisterkamp Ines M. , Schramm Andreas , Larsen Lone H. , Svenningsen Nanna B. , Lavik Gaute , de Beer Dirk , Stief Peter
Published: June 2012

Emission of the greenhouse gas nitrous oxide (N2O) from freshwater and terrestrial invertebrates has exclusively been ascribed to N2O production by ingested denitrifying bacteria in the anoxic gut of the animals. Our study of marine molluscs now shows that also microbial biofilms on shell surfaces are important sites of N2O production. The shell biofilms of Mytilus edulis, Littorina littorea and Hinia reticulata contributed 18–94% to the total animal‐associated N2O emission. Nitrification and denitrification were equally important sources of N2O in shell biofilms as revealed by 15N‐stable isotope experiments with dissected shells. Microsensor measurements confirmed that both nitrification and denitrification can occur in shell biofilms due to a heterogeneous oxygen distribution. Accordingly, ammonium, nitrite and nitrate were important drivers of N2O production in the shell biofilm of the three mollusc species. Ammonium excretion by the animals was found to be sufficient to sustain N2O production in the shell biofilm. Apparently, the animals provide a nutrient‐enriched microenvironment that stimulates growth and N2O production of the shell biofilm. This animal‐induced stimulation was demonstrated in a long‐term microcosm experiment with the snail H. reticulata, where shell biofilms exhibited the highest N2O emission rates when the animal was still living inside the shell.
A Study of Work–Family Enrichment among Chinese Employees: The Mediating Role between Work Support and Job Satisfaction
Authors: Tang Shu‐wen , Siu Oi‐ling , Cheung Francis
Published: June 2012

This study adopted social exchange theory to investigate whether work‐to‐family enrichment functioned as a mediator between work support (supervisor support, co‐worker support, and organisational support) and job satisfaction among 543 employees in two cities in China. A series of confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) supported a 10‐item Work Support Scale measuring supervisor support, co‐worker support, and organisational support. Structural equation modelling (SEM) results showed that work‐to‐family enrichment fully mediated the association of supervisor support and organisational support with job satisfaction. Based on multiple group comparisons, the proposed model fit both genders and family types (single living with extended family vs. married living with family members). The critical ratios for parameter differences indicated that the relationship between work‐to‐family enrichment and job satisfaction was significantly stronger for females than for males. The implications of findings and directions for future research on work–family enrichment are discussed in the paper.
Horizontal and vertical resource dilemmas in natural resource management: the case ofAfrican fisheries
Authors: Sjöstedt Martin
Published: June 2012

The world's fisheries are under severe pressure. Yet, according to the marine trophic index, the health and stability of marine ecosystems vary greatly across countries. The argument developed and tested in this article holds that some of the sources of this variation can potentially be derived from differences in the character of two fundamental relationships in society – a horizontal one between resource users and a vertical relationship between the government and the resource users. The empirical analysis focuses on sub‐Saharan Africa and finds that levels of ethnic and linguistic heterogeneity and levels of democracy in the year that each country declared its exclusive economic zone have a close relationship with ensuing marine exploitation patterns.
Servicing Customers in Revolutionary Times: The Experience of the Collectivized Barcelona Water Company during the Spanish Civil War
Authors: Gorostiza Santiago , March Hug , Sauri David
Published: June 2012

Debates on the total or partial privatization of water usually follow the rationale that efficient and rational management is best left to the private sphere. In this paper and using a historical example, we attempt to assess critically this assumption arguing that efficiency and rationality in resource management are and have been an asset of collective management as well. We present the case of the Barcelona Water Company, run by its workers during the Spanish Civil War, to illustrate how in certain cases, gains in economic efficiency and rational management that had been impossible to accomplish under standard private management, were achieved by collective action. Workers management during this period not only improved efficiency and rationality but to a large extent did so also procuring equity and fairness in the provision of water to the citizens of Barcelona despite the harsh conditions brought about by the war.
Checking the Short‐Term and Long‐Term Hazard Ratio Model for Survival Data
Authors: YANG SONG , ZHAO YICHUAN
Published: June 2012

Abstract. The short‐term and long‐term hazard ratio model includes the proportional hazards model and the proportional odds model as submodels, and allows a wider range of hazard ratio patterns compared with some of the more traditional models. We propose two omnibus tests for checking this model, based, respectively, on the martingale residuals and the contrast between the non‐parametric and model‐based estimators of the survival function. These tests are shown to be consistent against any departure from the model. The empirical behaviours of the tests are studied in simulations, and the tests are illustrated with some real data examples.
Home Safe: No‐Trade Clauses and Player Salaries in Major League Baseball
Authors: PEDACE ROBERTO , HALL CURTIS M.
Published: June 2012

In this study, we examine the wage effects of no‐trade clauses in Major League Baseball. Using an accepted player salary equation and data from the 2003–2008 seasons, we find evidence that there is a trade‐off between monetary compensation and the risk reduction provided by a no‐trade clause. The results suggest that players may be able to simultaneously negotiate for a no‐trade clause and higher salaries, but this is constrained when players also seek to guarantee their income stream with long‐term contracts.
Pay for Performance and Corporate Governance Reform
Authors: DOUCOULIAGOS HRISTOS , HAMAN JANTO , STANLEY T.D.
Published: June 2012

Directors’ pay and corporate governance continue to generate public outrage and calls for reform. Our meta‐regression analysis of all comparable UK pay‐for‐performance estimates finds little, if any, meaningful association between directors’ pay and corporate performance. However, there is evidence of the effectiveness of past “comply‐or‐explain” rules, especially the Cadbury Report. Unfortunately, the effects of past reform efforts tend to erode over time. This study also explores differences between pay–performance estimates, finding that these are largely explained by how pay and performance are measured by a given study.
An animated dictionary for hearing‐impaired students in Thailand
Authors: Wicha Santichai , Sharp Bernadette , Sureephong Pradorn , Chakpitak Nopasit , Atkins Anthony
Published: June 2012

As English increasingly becomes the international language, many ministerial and educational organisations have identified the need to improve the competence of Thai students in speaking English. While there is significant research devoted to developing software tools to support the teaching of English as a second language, they are mostly concerned with adult learners. This project focuses on addressing the need to improve the teaching of English as a second language to primary school children with hearing impairments. This paper presents the development of an educational software tool referred to as the Total Communication with Animation Dictionary (TCAD), which supports learners in the acquisition and retention of new English lexical knowledge and is based on the theoretical approaches of Total Communication and situated learning. A series of experiments was undertaken to evaluate the effectiveness of the TCAD in improving vocabulary acquisition and retention. Early results are promising with increased learner engagement and performance compared with traditional approaches.
Long‐term expression of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor slows, but does not stop retinal degeneration in a model of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Ohnaka Masayuki , Miki Katsuaki , Gong Yuan‐Yuan , Stevens Rebecca , Iwase Takeshi , Hackett Sean F. , Campochiaro Peter A.
Published: June 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 122, 1047–1053.

Retinitis pigmentosa is a group of diseases in which one of hundreds of mutations causes death of rod photoreceptor cells and then cones gradually die from oxidative damage. As different mutations cause rod cell death by different mechanisms, mutation‐specific treatments are needed. Another approach is to use a neurotrophic factor to promote photoreceptor survival regardless of the mechanism of cell death, and previous studies have demonstrated encouraging short‐term results with gene transfer of glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF). We generated rd10 mice with doxycycline‐inducible expression of GDNF in photoreceptors (Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 mice) or retinal pigmented epithelial cells (Tet/VMD2/GDNF‐rd10 mice). In doxycycline‐treated Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 mice, there was a 9.3 × 104‐fold increase in Gdnf mRNA at P35 and although it decreased over time, it was still increased by 9.4 × 103‐fold at P70. Gdnf mRNA was increased 4.5 × 102‐fold in doxycycline‐treated Tet/VMD2/GDMF‐rd10 mice at P35 and was not significantly decreased at P70. GDNF protein levels were increased about 2.3‐fold at P35 and 30% at P70 in Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 mice, and in Tet/VMD2/GDNF‐rd10 mice they were increased 30% at P35 and not significantly increased at P70. Despite the difference in expression, Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 and Tet/VMD2/GDNF‐rd10 mice had comparable significant increases in outer nuclear layer thickness and mean photopic and scotopic ERG b‐wave amplitudes compared with rd10 mice at P35 which decreased, but was still significant at P70. Compared with rd10 mice, Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 and Tet/VMD2/GDNF‐rd10 mice had comparable significant improvements in cone density at P50 that decreased, but were still significant at P70. These data indicate that despite a large difference in expression of GDNF, Tet/IRBP/GDNF‐rd10 and Tet/VMD2/GDNF‐rd10 provide comparable slowing of photoreceptor degeneration, but cannot stop the degeneration.
Citrulline: pharmacological perspectives and its role as an emerging biomarker in future
Authors: Kaore Shilpa N. , Amane Hanmant S. , Kaore Navinchandra M.
Published: June 2012

l‐citrulline is a naturally occurring non‐essential amino acid, an intermediate in urea cycle and conditionally essential in intestinal pathology. It is a potent hydroxyl radical scavenger and much more effective precursor of arginine and nitric oxide (NO) than arginine itself so exploited in therapeutics. Plasma citrulline concentration is used by clinicians to assess functional enterocyte mass in various chronic and acute small bowel pathologies like short bowel syndrome that has become an indication in clinical practice. Its supplementation is likely to be used in conditions like erectile dysfunction, sickle cell anemia, short bowel syndrome (to restore nitrogen balance), hyperlipidemia, cancer chemotherapy, hypercholestremia, in hyperoxic lung damage, urea cycle disorders, Alzheimers disease, multi‐infarct dementia and as an immunomodulator. Its emerging role as a biomarker in intestinal pathology and early diagnosis of Rheumatoid arthritis has spread considerable interest. Antibody detection to Anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (ACCP) antibodies can be recommended for early detection of RA decreasing joint damage and deformity, because these are detected well before the onset of disease manifestations of RA. The test is highly specific than RF (Rheumatoid factor), with moderate sensitivity, but much useful in differentiating RA from other disorders. Further studies and exploration is required in these areas.
The Effects of Strain and Centrality of Strain on Delinquency among Chinese Adolescents*
Authors: Liu Ruth X.
Published: June 2012

This study assesses the moderating effects of importance placed on strained domains (i.e., centrality of strain) on the relationship between strain and delinquent participation among Chinese adolescents. Regression analyses of data on 1,735 middle school students from Fuzhou City, China, yield results quite comparable with expectations. Adolescents who report high levels of strain and simultaneously consider these strained domains (i.e., status achievement, interpersonal relations, and personal appearance) as important engage in higher levels of delinquency than those who encounter strain but deem it as less important. The effects of strain and centrality of strain are most salient concerning status achievement. These findings are interpreted in light of China’s cultural setting and policy implications.
N‐terminal valine adduct from the anti‐HIV drug abacavir in rat haemoglobin as evidence for abacavir metabolism to a reactive aldehyde in vivo
Authors: Charneira C , Grilo NM , Pereira SA , Godinho ALA , Monteiro EC , Marques MM , Antunes AMM
Published: June 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE The aim of this study was to obtain evidence for the activation of the nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor abacavir to reactive aldehyde metabolites in vivo. Protein haptenation by these reactive metabolites may be a factor in abacavir‐induced toxic events.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The formation of N‐terminal valine adducts from the abacavir‐derived aldehydes was investigated in the haemoglobin of Wistar rats treated with eight daily doses (120 mg·kg−1) of abacavir. The analyses were conducted by high‐performance liquid chromatography‐electrospray ionization‐tandem mass spectrometry upon comparison with synthetic standards.

KEY RESULTS An N‐terminal valine haemoglobin adduct derived from an α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde metabolite of abacavir was identified in vivo for the first time.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This preliminary work on abacavir metabolism provides the first unequivocal evidence for the formation of an α,β‐unsaturated aldehyde metabolite in vivo and of its ability to form haptens with proteins. The methodology described herein can be used to assess the formation of this metabolite in human samples and has the potential to become a valuable pharmacological tool for mechanistic studies of abacavir toxicity. In fact, the simplicity of the method suggests that the abacavir adduct with the N‐terminal valine of haemoglobin could be used to investigate abacavir‐induced toxicity for accurate risk/benefit estimations.
Behavioral response of mantid Tenodera aridifolia (Mantodea: Mantidae) to windy conditions as a cryptic approach strategy for approaching prey
Authors: Watanabe Hiroshi , Yano Eizi
Published: June 2012

Crypsis can be either defensive or aggressive in function, and the first evidence that crypsis reduces the probability of being detected by a predator was collected almost a century ago. Crypsis in mantids may reduce the probability that a mantid will be detected by its prey, but no experiments have been carried out to test this idea. We tested the hypothesis that the approach strategy of the mantid Tenodera aridifolia (Stoll) toward prey when the wind is blowing is adaptive. Significantly less time elapsed between the discovery of the prey by the predator and capture action under windy conditions than under windless conditions. Approach behaviors (walking and body swaying) were observed more frequently under windy than under windless conditions. When the wind stopped, mantids became still, and they changed their behavior in response to alternately changing wind conditions. Moreover, the discovery rate of the predator mantids by conspecific prey mantids was significantly lower on swaying leaves than on fixed leaves. The capturing rate of the prey by the mantid was significantly higher under windy conditions than under windless conditions. We suggest that the strategy of approaching prey quickly when the wind blowing is adaptive for reducing the risk of discovery and escape by the prey.
Margaret Cavendish on Gender, Nature, and Freedom
Authors: Boyle Deborah
Published: June 2012

Some scholars have argued that Margaret Cavendish was ambivalent about women's roles and capabilities, for she seems sometimes to hold that women are naturally inferior to men, but sometimes that this inferiority is due to inferior education. I argue that attention to Cavendish's natural philosophy can illuminate her views on gender. In section II I consider the implications of Cavendish's natural philosophy for her views on male and female nature, arguing that Cavendish thought that such natures were not fixed. However, I argue that although Cavendish thought women needed to be better educated, and could change if they had such an education, she also thought their education should reinforce the feminine virtues. Section III examines Cavendish's notorious “Preface to the Reader” (from The Worlds Olio), where Cavendish claims that women are naturally inferior in strength and intelligence to men. Section IV addresses another notorious Cavendish text, “Female Orations,” arguing that its message is similar to that of the “Preface to the Reader.” Nonetheless, although Cavendish held conventional views about male and female nature and appropriate gender roles, she also recognized how social institutions could limit women's freedom; section V explores the complexities of Cavendish's critique of one such institution, patriarchal marriage.
Dynamic and Persistent Effects of Ethanol Exposure on Development: An In Vivo Analysis During and After Embryonic Ethanol Exposure in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Lin Conny H. , Sa Sasha , Chand Jeeniece , Rankin Catharine H.
Published: June 2012

Background

Defects caused by ethanol (EtOH) exposure during development can be different depending on the time of observation. To investigate this temporal component of developmental delay, we use the fast‐developing nematode model Caenorhabditis elegans. We first defined the longitudinal effects of EtOH on development using age‐appropriate markers and then closely followed embryonic development before, during, and after EtOH exposure.

Methods

C. elegans embryos were bathed in 0 to 20% EtOH (w/w in ddH2O) for 8 hours or were left untreated during embryonic development. Development was followed longitudinally and scored as embryonic stage at the end of the exposure, hatch time, hatching probability (mortality), body length, postembryonic stage, and egg‐laying pattern. The rate of in vivo embryonic development was observed hourly for 24 hours covering times before, during, and after EtOH exposure.

Results

After exposure to 10% EtOH, embryos were at younger embryonic stages, hatched later, and had higher mortality compared to unexposed controls. Embryos exposed to 5% EtOH were at normal embryonic stages, showed no change in mortality, but hatched later than controls. Both EtOH groups showed shorter mean body lengths and slower postembryonic development; however, the 5% group recovered to control levels faster than the 10% group. The pattern of egg laying was delayed in the 10% group, but not in the 5% group. Hourly in vivo observations revealed that a developmental delay was first visible a few hours into 10% EtOH exposure and that the delay increased after the removal of EtOH exposure.

Conclusions

Developmental delays occurred during and immediately after exposure and were not uniform but rather dynamic. This article highlights the importance of investigating EtOH‐induced defects using different markers and at multiple time points. Attention to temporal effects during and immediately after EtOH exposure can provide understanding of these sensitive time points for observation and treatment.