bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An evaluation of research students' writing support intervention
Authors: O'Mahony Barry , Verezub Elena , Dalrymple John , Bertone Santina
Published: April 2013

Purpose

Achieving quality standards in postgraduate education, particularly among Higher Degree by Research (HDR) students, can be challenging. In addition to the diverse educational and cultural backgrounds of these students, thesis writing frequently involves the development of new skills associated with the comprehension of a large volume of information, critical analysis and the development of an academic writing style. Many students need support in one or all of these key areas. Universities currently provide a number of different writing support activities to address students' needs. The purpose of this study is to report on a writing support intervention that employed a specialist in academic writing to support HDR students in the business faculty.

Design/methodology/approach

Following a two‐year period, the intervention was evaluated to assess the appropriateness and effectiveness of this support using qualitative methods. The results of this study are presented and discussed from different angles. First, a lecturer in academic writing support outlines her observations and reflection on the value of individual consultations and students' progress. Second, the attitudes and experience of students and their supervisors to this service are discussed. This is followed by the faculty senior management view with regard to the effectiveness and efficiency of this service.

Findings

This research found that both students and their supervisors expressed satisfaction with the service offered. Also it was found that the writing quality of submitted theses is improving; the costs of thesis editing have reduced; HDR students appear to be more satisfied with and confident of their academic writing; the attractiveness of the PhD program has been enhanced, as judged by the increase in PhD enquiries and the quality of potential applicants.

Research limitations/implications

The results reported here indicate that the intervention was successful. However, the sample size was relatively small and the HDR candidates and supervisors were drawn from only one faculty in one university.

Practical implications

The study provides some recommendations that could be taken into account by senior management and academic staff in order to set up and deliver a faculty‐based writing support service for HDR students, which would bring benefits to students, their supervisors, faculties and universities.

Originality/value

The value of this research is that the writing program was proven to be beneficial for universities to support research students in the development of their writing skills, which in turn, could improve the quality of thesis and ensure on time completion.
State Rescaling in Non‐Western Contexts
Authors: Park Bae‐Gyoon
Published: April 2013

State rescaling is the subject of a continuously growing literature that provides valuable insights into our current understandings of globalization, the spatiality of the capitalist state and urban and regional development. There have been, however, growing concerns about the wider applicability of this literature. Since the bulk of state rescaling studies have focused on North American and European examples, the existing literature is limited in its conceptualization of the diverse and concrete ways in which the spatial and scalar restructuring of capitalist states takes place in different historical, political and social contexts beyond North America and Western Europe. This symposium provides the literature with a valuable opportunity to transcend this limitation. The articles in this collection discuss the processes of state rescaling in non‐Western countries such as Japan, Korea, Brazil and Turkey. By providing detailed explanations of state rescaling and the associated politico‐economic processes in non‐Western countries and regions, they not only show that state‐rescaling literature is more widely applicable and meaningful beyond Western politico‐economic contexts, but also point out what is missing in the existing corpus.
When good HR gets bad results: exploring the challenge of HR implementation in the case of workplace bullying
Authors: Woodrow Chris , Guest David E.
Published: April 2013

Research on the relationship between HRM and organisational performance has highlighted a gap between intended and implemented HR practices. However, this gap has rarely been explored systematically, and the consequences of the effectiveness of the implementation process for relevant outcomes remain poorly understood. This article addresses this issue by examining the process and quality of HR implementation. Drawing on a model of HR implementation, it presents a detailed case study of the implementation of HR practices relating to workplace bullying. Findings reveal that while the policy reflected best practice, implementation was uneven, resulting in persisting high levels of bullying which negatively affected staff well‐being and performance. The results indicate that it is misleading to look just at HR practices, and that even ‘best HR practices’ are unsuccessful unless implemented effectively. It is argued that a greater focus on HR implementation will improve our understanding of the HRM – performance relationship.
In‐training assessment developments in postgraduate education in Europe
Authors: van der Vleuten Cees , Verhoeven Bas
Published: April 2013

Aim

This paper reviews changes that are underway in postgraduate medical education in various European countries. Training in the workplace is a very effective way of learning, but it has many imperfections. Changes in in‐training assessment are proposed to remedy some of these.

Assessment tools

The focus is on a set of assessment tools for performance in authentic work‐based contexts. These tools include direct performance measures of single clinical events (mini‐Clinical Evaluation Exercise, Direct Observation of Practical Skills, Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills, Case‐based Discussion, Mini‐Peer Assessment Tool) and performance measures over a period of time (Multi‐Source Feedback), based on judgement by one or more knowledgeable assessors (supervisor, other healthcare professional, patient, trainee himself/herself). Quantitative and qualitative information from single assessments is first and foremost used to promote learning, but also aggregated across a large sample of contexts and assessors in order to obtain an overall picture of a trainee's progress. Aggregating instruments, such as the portfolio, can be used to collect, support and assess outcomes in terms of competencies achieved. We will describe this set of instruments and provide theoretical background as well as our own practical experiences.

Discussion

A central message is that the utility of assessment methods lies very much in the (understanding of) the users. Therefore, our concern is more with the actual implementation of change than with the assessment technology per se. If we fail in our efforts to implement real change, postgraduate education may be at risk for bureaucratization and trivialization. We nevertheless are excited to see change happening in the right direction, but remain patient, not expecting very quick wins.
The short isoform of the long‐type PML‐RARA fusion gene in acute promyelocytic leukaemia lacks sensitivity to all‐trans‐retinoic acid
Authors: Tan Yanhong , Bian Sicheng , Xu Zhifang , Chen Xiuhua , Qi Xiling , Ren Fanggang , Li Li , Guo Haixiu , Xu Aining , Zhang Linlin , Wang Hongwei
Published: April 2013

Alternative splicing is associated with human disease. In acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL) patients with the long (L)‐type promyelocytic leukaemia‐retinoic acid receptor α fusion gene (PML‐RARA), three alternative splicing isoforms can be detected: E5(+)E6(+), E5(−)E6(+), and E5(−)E6(−). This study is the first to demonstrate that alternative splicing of L‐type PML‐RARA is associated with time to achieve complete remission (CR) in APL. Higher expression of the E5(−)E6(−) isoform, the short isoform, was related to longer time to achieve CR. Each isoform was constructed into recombinant lentiviral vector and transfected into U937 cells. Compared with the E5(−)E6(+) and E5(+)E6(+) groups, the U937 cells with E5(−)E6(−) showed lower sensitivity to all‐trans‐retinoic acid treatment.
Anti‐adhesive effect of a thermosensitive poloxamer applied after the removal of nasal packing in endoscopic sinus surgery: a randomised multicentre clinical trial
Authors: Song K.J. , Lee H.M. , Lee E.J. , Kwon J.H. , Jo K.H. , Kim K.‐S.
Published: April 2013

Objective

To compare the efficacies of a thermosensitive poloxamer (TPX) and Merogel in preventing adhesion applied after the removal of nasal packing in endoscopic sinus surgery as a non‐inferiority trial.

Design

Randomised, multicentre, single‐blind, active‐controlled, matched‐pair study.

Setting

Yonsei University Gangnam Severance Hospital, Korea University Guro Hospital.

Participants

A total of 70 patients were enroled and underwent endoscopic sinus surgeries. Four of the patients did not complete their follow‐up. Analysis of the 66 enroled patients having completed postoperative assessment was performed. The severity of rhinosinusitis was graded with a Lund‐McKay CT score, and only those with bilateral disease and a CT score difference ≤2 between sinuses were included.

Main outcome measures

An independent rhinologist from a third institution through a blinded assessment with digital photoendoscopy of the middle meati bilaterally taken postoperatively.

Results

In the blinded assessment, thermosensitive poloxamer (anti‐adhesion rate: 92%) was similar to Merogel (anti‐adhesion rate: 89%). Evaluation of the presence and grade of adhesion, oedema, and infection in the middle meatus revealed no significant differences between the thermosensitive poloxamer group and the Merogel group at all postoperative periods.

Conclusion

Anti‐adhesive effects of thermosensitive poloxamer are similar to those of Merogel. Therefore, thermosensitive poloxamer can be considered a safe alternative to Merogel for preventing adhesion in patients undergoing endoscopic sinus surgeries, and further evaluation of thermosensitive poloxamer as an anti‐adhesive and primary packing material compared with the control using no packing is needed.
Experimental and analytical assessment of fatigue and crack propagation in cold worked open hole specimens
Authors: Boni L. , Fanteria D. , Lanciotti A. , Polese C.
Published: April 2013

Fatigue and crack propagation tests are carried out on 7075‐T73 open hole aluminium alloy specimens. A remarkable increment of fatigue life due to the Split Sleeve Cold ExpansionTM process is observed, further improved by applying the process twice on the same hole. Comparable increments are obtained by using the StressWaveTM method. Specific tests are performed in order to point out a possible relaxation of the residual stresses due to fatigue loading. The results obtained reveal no relaxation phenomena in the tested specimens.

The compressive residual stress around cold expanded holes is numerically evaluated. Dedicated experiments based on the Sachs method are conducted to confirm the residual stress prediction.
An estimate of the global sink for nitrous oxide in soils
Authors: Schlesinger William H.
Published: April 2013

A literature survey of studies reporting nitrous oxide uptake in the soils of natural ecosystems is used to suggest that the median uptake potential is 4 μg m−2 h−1. The highest values are nearly all associated with soils of wetland and peatland ecosystems. Globally, the consumption of nitrous oxide in soils is not likely to exceed 0.3 TgN yr−1, indicating that the projected sink is not more than 2% of current estimated sources of N2O in the atmosphere.
A Novel and Simple Process for Nanosized Mg‐Mn Ferrite Preparation from Solution Combustion Method and Study of its Characteristics
Authors: Lwin Nilar , Mohd Noor Ahmad Fauzi , Sreekantan Srimala , Othman Radzali , Thant Aye Aye
Published: April 2013

A novel solution combustion method has been used to prepare Mg‐Mn ferrites of various compositions, Mg0.9Mn0.1Fe1‐xO4 where x = 0.2, 0.4, 0.6, 0.8, and the properties were investigated in the present work. Nano‐size Mg‐Mn ferrite particles with diameter in the range of 8~ 15 nm were successfully formed via this method. The combustion temperature of the oxidation‐reduction was apparently occurred at 200°C. The result of X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis indicated that the as‐burnt powder affords a pure single spinel ferrite phase at low temperature. The thermal analysis of nitrate–citrate gels was characterized by DTA‐TG. The TEM and SEM observations give the morphology and microstructure of the products. The dielectric properties of the sintered Mg‐Mn ferrites were investigated by using HP/Agilent 4291B RF impedence/material analyzer. It was found that there was no maximum dielectric loss within the measured frequency range until 1 GHz due to excellent compositional control in this method.
Phase Evolution of Solid‐State BaTiO3 Powder Prepared by Different Starting BaCO3
Authors: Lee Ting‐Tai , Huang Chi‐Yuen , Chang Che‐Yuan , Cheng I‐Kuan , Hu Ching‐Li , Su Che‐Yi , Lee Chun‐Te , Fujimoto Masayuki
Published: April 2013

Two different specific surface area of starting BaCO3, 10 and 30 m2/g, are used to prepare solid‐state BaTiO3 powder. Pure tetragonal BaTiO3 was obtained at a lower calcination temperature with smaller BaCO3, and the kinetic calculations of activation energy also agree with it. A clear, thin, and nano‐sized cubic BaTiO3 clusters on TiO2 particles were also observed. A narrower particle size distribution of BaTiO3 powder (350 nm) was obtained from 30 m2/g of starting BaCO3 at 1000°C. After sintering with reducing atmosphere, the ceramics with potential of X8R or X7R specifications and a clear core–shell microstructure were obtained in this study.
Supersize my identity: when thoughts of contracting swine flu boost one's patriotic identity
Authors: Bélanger Jocelyn J. , Faber Tim , Gelfand Michele J.
Published: April 2013

Pandemics are socially threatening situations that rapidly spread across large regions. Thinking of contracting dangerous diseases can potentially evoke fear and death‐related thoughts. The aim of the present work was to investigate how individuals respond to fear associated with contracting a pandemic disease (i.e., swine flu). In accordance with the mortality salience hypothesis of terror management theory (Greenberg, Pyszczynski, & Solomon, 1986), we predicted that individuals concerned with contracting swine flu would demonstrate greater investment in cultural worldviews (i.e., patriotism) in response to death anxiety. The implications of these findings for understanding global issues in domains related to health and politics are discussed.
Different goals, different predictions: Accuracy and bias in financial planning for events and time periods
Authors: Peetz Johanna , Buehler Roger
Published: April 2013

Personal spending predictions are sometimes optimistically biased because predictors focus on their current savings goals. The present studies explored the role of savings goals in prediction by comparing spending predictions for time periods and discrete events. Contemplating a concrete event may elicit specific goals that compete with a focus on savings goals. Consistent with this hypothesis, Studies 1 and 2 revealed that participants relied less on savings goals, and were less biased, when predicting event spending rather than weekly spending. Study 3 demonstrated the causal impact of focusing on goals that compete with savings goals: Participants induced to focus on competing goals predicted to spend more money next week, and relied less on savings goals to generate their predictions.
Using peer injunctive norms to predict early adolescent cigarette smoking intentions
Authors: Zaleski Adam C. , Aloise‐Young Patricia A.
Published: April 2013

The present study investigated the importance of the perceived injunctive norm to predict early adolescent cigarette smoking intentions. A total of 271 sixth graders completed a survey that included perceived prevalence of friend smoking (descriptive norm), perceptions of friends' disapproval of smoking (injunctive norm), and future smoking intentions. Participants also listed their five best friends, from which the actual injunctive norm was calculated. Results showed that smoking intentions were significantly correlated with the perceived injunctive norm but not with the actual injunctive norm. Second, the perceived injunctive norm predicted an additional 3.4% of variance in smoking intentions above and beyond the perceived descriptive norm. These results demonstrate the importance of the perceived injunctive norm in predicting early adolescent smoking intentions.
Periodontal bacterial invasion and infection: contribution to atherosclerotic pathology
Authors: Reyes Leticia , Herrera David , Kozarov Emil , Roldán Silvia , Progulske‐Fox Ann
Published: April 2013

Objective

The objective of this review was to perform a systematic evaluation of the literature reporting current scientific evidence for periodontal bacteria as contributors to atherosclerosis.

Methods

Literature from epidemiological, clinical and experimental studies concerning periodontal bacteria and atherosclerosis were reviewed. Gathered data were categorized into seven “proofs” of evidence that periodontal bacteria: 1) disseminate from the oral cavity and reach systemic vascular tissues; 2) can be found in the affected tissues; 3) live within the affected site; 4) invade affected cell types in vitro; 5) induce atherosclerosis in animal models of disease; 6) non‐invasive mutants of periodontal bacteria cause significantly reduced pathology in vitro and in vivo; and 7) periodontal isolates from human atheromas can cause disease in animal models of infection.

Results

Substantial evidence for proofs 1 to 6 was found. However, proof 7 has not yet been fulfilled.

Conclusions

Despite the lack of evidence that periodontal bacteria obtained from human atheromas can cause atherosclerosis in animal models of infection, attainment of proofs 1 to 6 provides support that periodontal pathogens can contribute to atherosclerosis.
Towards a Molecular Taxonomy for Protists: Benefits, Risks, and Applications in Plankton Ecology
Authors: Caron David A.
Published: April 2013

The increasing use of genetic information for the development of methods to study the diversity, distributions, and activities of protists in nature has spawned a new generation of powerful tools. For ecologists, one lure of these approaches lies in the potential for DNA sequences to provide the only immediately obvious means of normalizing the diverse criteria that presently exist for identifying and counting protists. A single, molecular taxonomy would allow studies of diversity across a broad range of species, as well as the detection and quantification of particular species of interest within complex, natural assemblages; goals that are not feasible using traditional methods. However, these advantages are not without their potential pitfalls and problems. Conflicts involving the species concept, disagreements over the true (physiological/ecological) meaning of genetic diversity, and a perceived threat by some that sequence information will displace knowledge regarding the morphologies, functions and physiologies of protistan taxa, have created debate and doubt regarding the efficacy and appropriateness of some genetic approaches. These concerns need continued discussion and eventual resolution as we move toward the irresistible attraction, and potentially enormous benefits, of the application of genetic approaches to protistan ecology.
Effect of Xylanase on Quality Attributes of Whole‐wheat bread
Authors: Ghoshal G. , Shivhare U.S. , Banerjee U.C.
Published: April 2013

Partially purified xylanase was used in whole‐wheat bread manufacturing to study its effect on the quality attributes of the bread during storage at room temperature (25 ± 2C) and refrigerated temperature (4 ± 1C). Incorporation of xylanase resulted in reduced water absorption for dough preparation and reduced moisture loss from bread during storage. Addition of xylanase resulted in increased specific volume, increased shelf life, lower firmness during storage, reduced staling and brighter color of bread compared with that prepared without enzyme. Total color difference ΔE increased with storage time, but the extent of increase was lower in xylanase‐supplemented bread. Glass transition temperature increased slowly during storage with significant (P < 0.05) enthalpy change. Rate of increase of firmness during storage was lower in xylanase‐supplemented bread as compared with control. Xylanase supplementation resulted in improved sensory attributes of bread.

Practical Applications

Inadequate rising of dough leading to hardness, reduced volume and grainy mouthfeel results due to presence of bran in whole‐wheat bread. Additives are therefore used to overcome this problem. Use of hydrolase in whole‐wheat bread results in better color and flavor, softer texture, longer shelf life, fiber‐rich nutritious bread. Partially purified microbial xylanase was used in the present study to produce whole‐wheat bread with better sensory properties.
Lower polyamine levels in breast milk of obese mothers compared to mothers with normal body weight
Authors: Ali M. Atiya , Strandvik B. , Palme‐Kilander C. , Yngve A.
Published: April 2013

Background

Obesity is associated with risks for mother and infant, and the mothers' dietary habits influence breast milk composition. Polyamines are secreted in breast milk and are essential for the regulation of intestinal and immune function in newborns and infants. The present study aimed to investigate the level of polyamines in human milk obtained from obese and normal weight mothers at different times of lactation.

Methods

Breast milk from 50 mothers was obtained at day 3, and at 1 and 2 months after delivery. The mothers had normal body weight [body mass index (BMI) < 25 kg m–2] or were obese (BMI > 30 kg/m2). A subgroup of obese mothers participated in a weight reduction programme during pregnancy. Polyamines were analysed using high‐performance liquid chromatography.

Results

The total polyamine content was significantly lower at all times in breast milk from obese mothers compared to milk from controls. Spermine levels did not differ between groups at any time in contrast to the levels of putrescine and spermidine. Putrescine concentrations were highest on day 3 and spermidine and spermine were highest at 1 month of lactation. The obese mothers, who received dietary advice during pregnancy based on the Nordic Nutrition Recommendations, had higher concentrations of putrescine and spermidine in their milk than the obese mothers without any intervention.

Conclusions

Polyamine concentrations were lower in breast milk from obese mothers compared to mothers with a normal weight. General dietary intervention in obese mothers increased the polyamine levels, suggesting that the low levels in obesity were at least partly associated with food habits. However, the consistency of spermine suggests a special metabolic function of this polyamine.
New measure for fathers of children with developmental challenges
Authors: Ly A. R. , Goldberg W. A.
Published: April 2013

Background

There is a relative lack of measures tailored to the study of fathers of children with developmental challenges (DCs). The goal of the current study was to create and validate a brief measure designed to capture the perceptions and experiences of these fathers. The Fathers of Children with Developmental Challenges (FCDC) questionnaire was designed to assess fathers' perceptions of the supports for, and challenges to, their efforts to be involved in the rearing of their children.

Method

Participants were 101 fathers of children with DCs who completed an online survey. Scale validation included tests to determine reliability, validity and factor structure. Used to establish validity were measures of parenting stress, parenting commitment, parent personality and child social‐communicative skills.

Results

Analyses indicated that the FCDC is reliable (α = 0.89), demonstrates content validity, construct validity and acts in theoretically expected ways. Factor analysis on the 20‐item measure yielded two sub‐scales: (1) impact on parenting, and (2) involvement with child intervention.

Conclusions

The FCDC fills a gap in the literature by offering an easy‐to‐administer self‐report measure of fathers' perceptions of supports for, and barriers to, their involvement with their children with DCs. The FCDC could assist professionals in delivering support services specifically for fathers of children with DCs.
An assessment of mast cells and myofibroblasts in denture‐induced fibrous hyperplasia
Authors: Kiuchi Misa , Yamamura Takashi , Okudera Michisato , Souksavanh Vongsa , Ishigami Tomohiko , Iwase Takashi , Warnakulasuriya Saman , Komiyama Kazuo
Published: April 2013

Objectives

The pathogenesis of denture‐induced fibrous hyperplasias has not been examined in detail to explain how tissue injury results in fibrous hyperplasia of the oral mucosa.

Patients and Methods

We examined the presence of mast cells and myofibroblasts in 33 denture‐induced fibrous hyperplasias (DIFH) compared with 10 healthy gingival tissues. The parameters examined included mast cell numbers, tissue distribution, degranulation, and cell subtypes using immunohistochemistry. The presence of myofibroblasts and their likely origin was also examined by double immunofluorescense staining. Furthermore, we investigated the synthesis of osteopontin and TGF‐β, considered to be involved in the transformation of a fibroblast to a myofibroblast.

Results

The results demonstrated that the mast cell numbers are significantly increased in the DIFH compared with non‐disease controls. The mast cell localization in lesions was higher in the superficial areas with inflammatory cell infiltration compared with the deep fibrotic area (P < 0.01). The number of tryptase‐positive mast cells was significantly higher compared with chymase‐positive ones. The TGF‐β‐ or osteopontin‐positive cell infiltration into the lesion was found in high numbers. The presence of myofibroblasts was identified in 14 of 33 cases (42%), and some of these cells showed apoptosis when assessed by the TUNEL assay. On the survey of the origin of myofibroblasts, results showed αSMA and vimentin positivity indicating these transformed from fibroblasts.

Conclusion

These results are the first to show that mast cells and myofibroblasts can be detected in DIFH, indicating important roles of these cells in the pathogenesis of this lesion.
The use of psychological therapies by mental health nurses in Australia
Authors: Fisher J. E.
Published: April 2013

Accessible summary

This paper examines the usage of psychological therapies by mental health nurses. The paper presents the findings from a questionnaire survey of 528 practising mental health nurses in Australia. Key findings include:

Mental health nurses believe employing psychological therapies such as cognitive behaviour therapy in their practice will improve therapeutic outcomes for consumers.

Mental health nurses overwhelmingly want to employ psychological therapies in their practice.

They think mental health nursing and hospital and community health management is too focussed on medical treatment and risk management, which means that their nursing practice is dominated by the administration of medication, excessive documentation, and patient observation.

They identify barriers preventing them from practising psychological therapies. These include lack of confidence, low nurse morale, no support from other nurses, low staffing levels, lack of training opportunities, and inadequate support from nursing management.

This paper reports on a research project which examines the feasibility of mental health nurses employing psychological therapies in the nursing care of people with severe mental illness. Attitudes towards current usage and factors influencing the adoption of psychological therapies are investigated. The paper addresses the gap in the Australian nursing literature regarding the therapeutic role of mental health nurses (MHN)s in relation to the use of evidence‐based psychological therapies. This paper presents the findings from an online questionnaire survey of 528 practising MHNs in Australia. The findings demonstrate enthusiastic support among nurses towards employing psychological therapies, with 93% of respondents indicating they would like to use psychological therapies in their current practice. Correspondingly, there is strong demand for education and training in applying psychological therapies. A number of barriers to implementing psychological therapies are identified. It is noted that place of employment is a significant factor, with mental health nurses working in the public sector more likely to state institutional barriers are restricting their therapeutic potential and preventing them from implementing psychological therapies.
Effects of food processing and fibre content on the digestibility, energy intake and biochemical parameters of Blue‐and‐gold macaws (Ara ararauna L. – Aves, Psittacidae)
Authors: Veloso R. R. , Sakomura N. K. , Kawauchi I. M. , Malheiros E. B. , Carciofi A. C.
Published: April 2013

Considering the increased incidence of obesity and metabolic diseases in caged psittacines, the effect of fibre and food processing was evaluated in the Blue‐and‐gold macaw. Four food formulations (0%, 7%, 14% and 21% of sugarcane fibre) processed by pelleting or extrusion were studied, resulting in eight diets. To study digestibility, 48 macaws housed in pairs in cages was used in a block design. Subsequently, diets containing 0% or 21% sugarcane fibre, pelleted or extrude was fed for 4 months to evaluate energy intake and blood metabolites. A 2 × 2 × 2 (two fibre levels, two food processing methods and two genders) factorial arrangement with subplots (beginning and end) was used. When differences were detected in anova's F test, data were submitted to polynomial contrasts in the first experiment and to orthogonal contrasts in the second experiment (p < 0.05). Fibre addition reduced protein, fat and energy (p < 0.001) digestibility in both food processing. Pelleted foods presented higher dry matter digestibility and food metabolisable energy (ME) than the extruded ones (p < 0.05). Fibre addition or the type of processing did not change ME ingestion (p > 0.05). The macaws gained body weight (p < 0.05) regardless of the diet (p > 0.05), but females fed with the high‐fibre diets did not gain weight (p > 0.05), suggesting a low food ME (12.5 kJ/g).The substitution of the original diet (sunflower seeds, fruits and cooked maize) by the experimental foods decreased the basal (12‐h fast) concentrations of glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides (p < 0.001). The consumption of pelleted diets reduced serum glucose and cholesterol (p < 0.05). Results suggest that the pelleted diets were more beneficial and can be used to reduce blood metabolites related to metabolic disorders that are commonly observed in macaws.
Phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate is enriched in granulovacuolar degeneration bodies and neurofibrillary tangles
Authors: Nishikawa Tomokazu , Takahashi Tetsuya , Nakamori Masahiro , Yamazaki Yu , Kurashige Takashi , Nagano Yoshito , Nishida Yoshihiko , Izumi Yuishin , Matsumoto Masayasu
Published: April 2013

Aims

Among the pathological findings in Alzheimer's disease (AD), the temporal and spatial profiles of granulovacuolar degeneration (GVD) bodies are characteristic in that they seem to be related to those of neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs), suggesting a common mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of these structures. Flotillin‐1, a marker of lipid rafts, accumulates in lysosomes of tangle‐bearing neurones in AD patients. In addition, recent reports have shown that GVD bodies accumulate at the nexus of the autophagic and endocytic pathways. The aim of this study was to elucidate the distribution of the lipid component of lipid rafts, phosphatidylinositol‐4,5‐bisphosphate [PtdIns(4,5)P2], in AD and other neurodegenerative disorders.

Methods

We compared PtdIns(4,5)P2 immunoreactivity in the hippocampus, entorhinal cortex and neocortex of five AD cases, 17 cases of other neurodegenerative disorders and four controls. In addition, we performed double staining using markers of GVD, NFTs and lipid rafts for further characterization.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that PtdIns(4,5)P2 was selectively enriched in GVD bodies and NFTs. Although immunoreactivity for PtdIns(4,5)P2 was also evident in NFTs composed of hyperphosphorylated tau, PtdIns(4,5)P2 was segregated from phosphorylated tau within NFTs by double immunofluorescence staining. In contrast, PtdIns(4,5)P2 colocalized with the lipid raft markers flotillin‐1 and annexin 2, within GVD bodies and NFTs.

Conclusions

These results suggest that lipid raft components including PtdIns(4,5)P2 play a role in the formation of both GVD bodies and NFTs.
Multilocus genetic models of handedness closely resemble single‐locus models in explaining family data and are compatible with genome‐wide association studies
Authors: McManus I. C. , Davison Angus , Armour John A. L.
Published: April 2013

Right‐ and left‐handedness run in families, show greater concordance in monozygotic than dizygotic twins, and are well described by single‐locus Mendelian models. Here we summarize a large genome‐wide association study (GWAS) that finds no significant associations with handedness and is consistent with a meta‐analysis of GWASs. The GWAS had 99% power to detect a single locus using the conventional criterion of P < 5 × 10−8 for the single locus models of McManus and Annett. The strong conclusion is that handedness is not controlled by a single genetic locus. A consideration of the genetic architecture of height, primary ciliary dyskinesia, and intelligence suggests that handedness inheritance can be explained by a multilocus variant of the McManus DC model, classical effects on family and twins being barely distinguishable from the single locus model. Based on the ENGAGE meta‐analysis of GWASs, we estimate at least 40 loci are involved in determining handedness.
Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy: pathogenesis and clinical management
Authors: Grunseich C , Rinaldi C , Fischbeck KH
Published: April 2013

Spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy, or Kennedy's disease, is an X‐linked motor neuron disease caused by polyglutamine repeat expansion in the androgen receptor. The disease is characterised by weakness, atrophy and fasciculations in the limb and bulbar muscles. Affected males may have signs of androgen insensitivity, such as gynaecomastia and reduced fertility. Neurophysiological studies are typically consistent with diffuse denervation atrophy, and serum creatine kinase is usually elevated 2–5 times above normal. Progression of the disease is slow, and the focus of spinal and bulbar muscular atrophy (SBMA) management is to prevent complications.
Glycine betaine‐mediated potentiation of HSP gene expression involves calcium signaling pathways in tobacco exposed to NaCl stress
Authors: Li Meifang , Guo Shangjing , Xu Ying , Meng Qingwei , Li Gang , Yang Xinghong
Published: April 2013

Glycine betaine (GB) can enhance heat tolerance and the accumulation of heat‐shock protein (HSP) in plants, but the effects of GB on HSP accumulation during salt stress were not previously known. To investigate the mechanism of how GB influences the expression of HSP, wild‐type tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum) seedlings pretreated with exogenous GB and BADH‐transgenic tobacco plants that accumulated GB in vivo were studied during NaCl stress. A transient Ca2+ efflux was observed in the epidermal cells of the elongation zone of tobacco roots after NaCl treatment for 1–2 min. After 24 h of NaCl treatment, an influx of Ca2+ was observed; a low concentration of GB significantly increased NaCl‐induced Ca2+ influx. GB increased the intracellular free calcium ion concentration and enhanced the expression of the calmodulin (CaM) and heat‐shock transcription factor (HSF) genes resulting in potentiated levels of HSPs. Pharmacological experiments confirmed that Ca2+ and CaM increased HSFs and HSPs gene expression, which coincided with increased the levels of HSP70 accumulation. These results suggest a mechanism by which GB acted as a cofactor in the NaCl induction of a Ca2+‐permeable current. A possible regulatory model of Ca2+‐CaM in the signal transduction pathway for induction of transcription and translation of the active HSPs is described.
Identification of genetic loci associated with fire blight resistance in Malus through combined use of QTL and association mapping
Authors: Khan M. Awais , Zhao Youfu (Frank) , Korban Schuyler S.
Published: April 2013

Fire blight, incited by the enterobacterium Erwinia amylovora, is a destructive disease of Rosaceae, particularly of apples and pears. There are reports on the molecular mechanisms underlying E. amylovora pathogenesis and how the host activates its resistance mechanism. The host's resistance mechanism is quantitatively controlled, although some major genes might also be involved. Thus far, quantitative trait loci (QTL) mapping and differential expression studies have been used to elucidate those genes and/or genomic regions underlying quantitative resistance present in the apple genome. In this study, an effort is undertaken to dissect the genetic basis of fire blight resistance in apple using both QTL and genome‐wide association mapping. On the basis of an F1 pedigree of ‘Coop 16’ × ‘Coop 17’ and a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) mapping population of Malus accessions (species, old and new cultivars and selections), new QTLs and associations have been identified. A total of three QTLs for resistance to fire blight, with above 95% significant logarithm of odds threshold value of 2.5, have been identified on linkage groups (LGs) 02, 06, and 15 of the apple genome with phenotypic variation explained values of 14.7, 20.1 and 17.4, respectively. Although elevated P‐values with signals for marker‐trait associations are observed for some LGs, these are not found to be significant. However, a total of 34 significant associations, with P‐values ≥0.02, have been detected including 8 for lesion length at 7 days following inoculation (PL1), 14 for lesion length at 14 days following inoculation (PL2), and 12 for shoot length.
Tumour necrosis factor antagonist and tuberculosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: An Asian perspective
Authors: To Kin Wang , Reino Juan J Gomez , Yoo Dae Hyun , Tam Lai Shan
Published: April 2013

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is a systemic autoimmune disease in which inflammation of the joints is one of the dominant clinical abnormalities resulting in serious morbidity. Over the past decade, tumour necrosis factor (TNF) antagonist has revolutionized the treatment of RA. However, the subsequent increased risk of developing tuberculosis is one of the major drawbacks of this otherwise effective treatment. Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) is an asymptomatic form of tuberculosis that is confined by the host's immune system. Active tuberculosis may develop when the immune status weakens. This risk is much higher in patients receiving TNF antagonist. Traditionally, tuberculin skin test (TST) is used to diagnose LTBI. Unfortunately, TST cannot distinguish bacillus Calmette‐Guérin (BCG) vaccination from tuberculosis making it difficult to use as a reliable diagnostic tool. In addition, possible anergy and interaction of the altered autoimmune status in rheumatological diseases further complicate the interpretation of TST results. Although interferon‐gamma release assay (IGRA) has improved the diagnosis of LTBI in immunocompetent individuals, its respective sensitivity/specificity values are unknown in patients with autoimmune disease due to variable pretest probability and lack of confirmatory test for LTBI. Thus, the use of IGRA for screening LTBI is variable among different countries. This review explores the prevalence of tuberculosis in patients receiving TNF antagonist in countries with different tuberculosis disease burdens and the potential mechanisms for variation in the incidence of tuberculosis with different TNF antagonists, the current practice guidelines for assessing the risk of LTBI in different countries, and the possible solutions for improving diagnosis, monitoring and management of LTBI.
Two Lotus japonicus symbiosis mutants impaired at distinct steps of arbuscule development
Authors: Groth Martin , Kosuta Sonja , Gutjahr Caroline , Haage Kristina , Hardel Simone Liesel , Schaub Miriam , Brachmann Andreas , Sato Shusei , Tabata Satoshi , Findlay Kim , Wang Trevor L. , Parniske Martin
Published: April 2013

Arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) fungi form nutrient‐acquiring symbioses with the majority of higher plants. Nutrient exchange occurs via arbuscules, highly branched hyphal structures that are formed within root cortical cells. With a view to identifying host genes involved in AM development, we isolated Lotus japonicus AM‐defective mutants via a microscopic screen of an ethyl methanesulfonate‐mutagenized population. A standardized mapping procedure was developed that facilitated positioning of the defective loci on the genetic map of L. japonicus, and, in five cases, allowed identification of mutants of known symbiotic genes. Two additional mutants representing independent loci did not form mature arbuscules during symbiosis with two divergent AM fungal species, but exhibited signs of premature arbuscule arrest or senescence. Marker gene expression patterns indicated that the two mutants are affected in distinct steps of arbuscule development. Both mutants formed wild‐type‐like root nodules upon inoculation with Mesorhizobium loti, indicating that the mutated loci are essential during AM but not during root nodule symbiosis.
Visualization of Two-Dimensional Excitation Temperatures in CH4/N2/Ar Plasmas for Preparation of Carbonaceous Materials
Authors: Shen Qingchun , Miyata Yasushi , Morita Shigeaki , Baba Yoshinobu , Kitagawa Kuniyuki , Gupta Ashwani K.
Published: April 2013

Analysis of the two-dimensional (2D) distribution of excited Ar atoms has been made to synthesize better anode materials for lithium-ion batteries. The 2D visualization of excitation temperatures was based on the “two-line” method, which are important to diagnose the plasmas used for the preparation of carbonaceous materials by plasma enhanced chemical vapor deposition. The results showed that the excitation temperature in N2-rich (CH4-lean) plasma was lower than that in N2-lean (CH4-rich), and is attributed to different excitation and reaction mechanisms of CH4 and N2.
The High Inertance Free Piston Engine Compressor—Part I: Dynamic Modeling
Authors: Willhite Joel A. , Yong Chao , Barth Eric J.
Published: April 2013

Free piston engine compressors have recently been investigated for the purpose of providing a high pressure air supply for untethered, pneumatically actuated robotic systems. Given that free piston engine performance is highly dependent on the dynamic characteristics of the piston, this paper presents the idea of incorporating a liquid piston whose geometry can be manipulated to achieve the desired piston dynamics while maintaining the compactness and light weight necessary for applications in the power output range of 100 W. An inertance-based dynamic model of the liquid piston is developed and validated experimentally. The piston model is incorporated into a complete system dynamic model of a proposed high inertance free liquid piston compressor (HIFLPC). Critical model parameters for individual components and subsystems of a proposed HIFLPC prototype are experimentally characterized. Simulation results for the proposed prototype are shown and discussed.
Investigation of Protein Adsorption Mechanism and Biotribological Properties at Simulated Stem-Cement Interface
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Zhang Shaohua , Luo Jianbin , Liu Yuhong , Qian Shanhua , Liang Fanghui , Huang Yongling
Published: April 2013

Debonding of the stem–cement interface occurs inevitably for almost all stem designs under physiological loading, and the wear debris generated at this interface is showing an increasing significance in contributing to the mechanical failure of cemented total hip replacements. However, the influence of protein adsorption onto the femoral stem and the bone cement surfaces has not been well taken into consideration across previous in vitro wear simulations. In the present study, the protein adsorption mechanism and biotribological properties at the stem-cement interface were investigated through a series of frictional tests using bone cements and femoral stems with two kinds of surface finishes, lubricated by calf serum at body temperature. The friction coefficient was dependent on the surface finish of the samples, with an initial much lower value obtained for the polished contacting pairs followed by a sudden increase in the friction coefficient with regard to the tests performed at higher frequencies. The friction coefficient did not change much during the tests for the glass-bead blasted contacting pairs. In addition, proteins from the calf serum were found to adsorb onto both the femoral stem and the bone cement surfaces, and the thickness of the physically adsorbed proteins on the polished metallic samples was more than 10 μm, which was measured using an optical interferometer and validated through a vertical scanning methodology based on Raman spectroscopy. An initial protein adsorption mechanism and biotribological properties at the stem-cement interface were examined in this study, and it suggested that wear at the stem-cement interface may be postponed or reduced by tailoring physicochemical properties of the femoral components to promote protein adsorption.
Friction and Wear Mechanisms of Phenolic-Based Materials on High Speed Tribometer
Authors: Meresse Damien , Watremez Michel , Siroux Monica , Dubar Laurent , Harmand Souad
Published: April 2013

This work takes place in the understanding of the friction and wear mechanisms occurring in reinforced phenolic materials, widely used in organic braking pads. As the matrix is filled with a large variety of particles, the phenomena in the contact zone are complex and multiphysic. In a first approach the reinforcement is restricted to spherical steel particles with diameters in the range of the fibbers size. The influence of the sliding speed, the mean normal pressure and the contact temperature are examined and the benefits of using this kind of particle is as well discussed. The tribological tests are performed on a newly developed High Speed Tribometer designed to reproduce braking conditions. The results show that temperature is the most influential parameter, leading to a decrease of the friction coefficient. They further indicate that reinforcement pushes the loss of efficiency to a higher temperature. Optical observations and profilometer analysis show that the wear mechanisms are clearly dependent on friction conditions. These results improve our knowledge of wear debris formation and conditions leading to particle debonding in phenolic matrix material.