bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Strategic reduction of help before dispersal in a cooperative breeder
Authors: Zöttl Markus , Chapuis Lucille , Freiburghaus Manuel , Taborsky Michael
Published: January 2013

In cooperative breeders, sexually mature subordinates can either queue for chances to inherit the breeding position in their natal group, or disperse to reproduce independently. The choice of one or the other option may be flexible, as when individuals respond to attractive dispersal options, or they may reflect fixed life-history trajectories. Here, we show in a permanently marked, natural population of the cooperatively breeding cichlid fish
Neolamprologus pulcher
that subordinate helpers reduce investment in territory defence shortly before dispersing. Such reduction of effort is not shown by subordinates who stay and inherit the breeding position. This difference suggests that subordinates ready to leave reduce their investment in the natal territory strategically in favour of future life-history perspectives. It seems to be part of a conditional choice of the dispersal tactic, as this reduction in effort appears only shortly before dispersal, whereas philopatric and dispersing helpers do not differ in defence effort earlier in life. Hence, cooperative territory defence is state-dependent and plastic rather than a consistent part of a fixed life-history trajectory.
Splinted Ligation Method to Detect Small RNAs
Authors: Nilsen Timothy W.
Published: January 2013

In any cell, the number of RNA species is remarkably complex. The sizes of RNAs can vary from 20 nucleotides to several kilobases, and abundances can vary from a few to hundreds of thousands of molecules per cell. It is of obvious interest to determine the abundance and integrity of specific RNA species within these complex mixtures. This protocol describes the splinted ligation method to detect small RNAs. It relies on the ability of T4 DNA ligase to covalently join the terminal 3′-hydroxyl group of an RNA molecule to the labeled 5′-phosphate group of a DNA chain in the presence of a DNA “splint” or “bridge” oligonucleotide that is complementary to both. After ligation, the labeled small RNA, lengthened by the covalent addition of the 32P-labeled oligonucleotide probe, is visualized by denaturing gel electrophoresis and phosphorimaging. This approach is recommended for the routine detection and quantification of specific small RNAs (e.g., microRNAs [miRNAs] and piwi-associated RNAs [piRNAs]).
Determining the Yield of RNA Synthesized In Vitro
Authors: Nilsen Timothy W.
Published: January 2013

A simple way to determine the amount of RNA made by in vitro transcription is to include a trace amount of radioactive nucleotide and calculate the amount of nucleotides incorporated into the RNA, as described here. This protocol can also be used to quantitate unlabeled transcripts, assuming that the unlabeled RNA is equivalent to an aliquot of labeled RNA synthesized in parallel.
Analyzing Ca2+ Dynamics in Intact Epithelial Cells Using Spatially Limited Flash Photolysis
Authors: Almassy Janos , Yule David I.
Published: January 2013

The production of saliva by parotid acinar cells is stimulated by Ca2+ activation of Cl− and K+ channels located in the apical plasma membrane of these polarized cells. Here we describe a paradigm for the focal photorelease of either Ca2+ or an inositol 1,4,5 trisphosphate (InsP3) analog. The protocol is designed to be useful for investigating subcellular Ca2+ dynamics in polarized cells with minimal experimental intervention. Parotid acinar cells are loaded with cell-permeable versions of the caged precursors (NP-EGTA-AM or Ci-InsP3/PM). Photolysis is accomplished using a spatially limited, focused diode laser, but the experiment can be readily modified to whole-field photolysis using a xenon flash lamp.
Isotropy, iSectors, and Vertical Sections in Stereology
Authors: West Mark J.
Published: January 2013

Stereology provides meaningful quantitative descriptions of the geometry of three-dimensional (3D) structures from measurements that are made on two-dimensional (2D) images. One important consideration when designing such studies is that both length and surface features may have preferred orientations in 3D space; that is, they may not be isotropic. To fully understand the global estimators of length L and surface area S, it is essential that one understand the problems that the inherent anisotropy in the structure of most living organisms generates when designing unbiased sampling schemes for estimating length and surface. These same issues also apply to the use of local estimators of object volume v and surface s, in that they use line and surface probes. These problems and the various solutions to them, which involve sectioning and probing tissue in particular ways, are presented in this article.
High-Speed Two-Photon Imaging
Authors: Reddy Gaddum Duemani , Saggau Peter
Published: January 2013

The small size of neuronal dendrites and spines combined with the high speed of neurophysiological signals, such as transients in membrane potential or ion concentration, necessitates that any functional study of these structures uses recording methods with both high spatial and high temporal resolutions. In this regard, conventional two-photon microscopy, in combination with fluorescent indicators sensitive to physiological parameters, has proved to be only a partial solution by providing near-diffraction-limited spatial resolution even when imaging structures deep inside light-scattering tissue. This is because the relatively slow beam-scanning methods used in most conventional two-photon microscopes severely limit the extent to which functional data can be recorded. Here, we detail developments to create high-speed two-photon imaging systems that overcome this limitation and discuss important considerations that must be taken into account when attempting to construct such systems.
Professional development for specialist teachers and assessors of students with literacy difficulties/dyslexia: ‘to learn how to assess and support children with dyslexia’
Authors: Bell Sheena
Published: January 2013

In this paper, the results of an investigation into the training needs and expectations of participants of professional development training1 for specialist teachers and assessors of learners with literacy difficulties and dyslexia are discussed and analysed. The methodology includes both qualitative and quantitative data which were collected over a period of 2 years from participants (N = 75) at the beginning of their courses of study. Current literature is reviewed, and an in‐depth analysis of the findings illuminates the rationale and content of the available training. The author discusses these findings and demonstrates the importance of the training. The conclusions offer research‐based reflections that are important to all those involved in the design and funding of this and future professional development.
Dropping out of school as a meaningful action for adolescents with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties
Authors: Lund Ingrid
Published: January 2013

This study examines and discusses dropping out of school related to adolescents with social, emotional and behavioural difficulties (SEBD). It is based on in‐depth interviews of 10 adolescents between the ages of 16 and 20, three girls and two boys with internalised problems, and two girls and three boys with extroverted behavioural problems. Given this group of students' challenges at school, the aim of this paper is to explore the narratives of this adolescent group as they relate to the significance they attach to their dropout behaviour. An additional objective is to draw attention to what these findings are likely to mean for implementing preventive practices in school.

Results show that adolescents with SEBD perceive a non‐supportive classroom environment to be a primary explanation for why they are dropping out from school. Additionally, lack of support from teachers and parents and family problems are, according to the adolescents, an important reason for dropping out. Findings are discussed in relation to future implications for this group of adolescents in the context of school.
Xenomic networks variability and adaptation traits in wood decaying fungi
Authors: Morel Mélanie , Meux Edgar , Mathieu Yann , Thuillier Anne , Chibani Kamel , Harvengt Luc , Jacquot Jean‐Pierre , Gelhaye Eric
Published: January 2013

Fungal degradation of wood is mainly restricted to basidiomycetes, these organisms having developed complex oxidative and hydrolytic enzymatic systems. Besides these systems, wood‐decaying fungi possess intracellular networks allowing them to deal with the myriad of potential toxic compounds resulting at least in part from wood degradation but also more generally from recalcitrant organic matter degradation. The members of the detoxification pathways constitute the xenome. Generally, they belong to multigenic families such as the cytochrome P450 monooxygenases and the glutathione transferases. Taking advantage of the recent release of numerous genomes of basidiomycetes, we show here that these multigenic families are extended and functionally related in wood‐decaying fungi. Furthermore, we postulate that these rapidly evolving multigenic families could reflect the adaptation of these fungi to the diversity of their substrate and provide keys to understand their ecology. This is of particular importance for white biotechnology, this xenome being a putative target for improving degradation properties of these fungi in biomass valorization purposes.
Firm performance, corporate ownership, and corporate social responsibility disclosure in China
Authors: Li Qi , Luo Wei , Wang Yaping , Wu Liansheng
Published: January 2013

The existing literature provides conflicting results on the association between firm performance and corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosure. This paper empirically examines the effect of firm performance on CSR disclosure in terms of disclosure frequency and quality among Chinese listed firms and the possible mediating effect of corporate ownership on the relationship between firm performance and CSR disclosure. Our findings show that better‐performing firms are more likely than worse‐performing ones to disclose CSR information and to produce higher quality CSR reports. In addition, the link between firm performance and CSR disclosure is found to be weaker among state‐owned enterprises compared with non‐state‐owned ones.
Beliefs about social responsibility at work: comparisons between managers and non‐managers over time and cross‐nationally
Authors: Factor Roni , Oliver Amalya L. , Montgomery Kathleen
Published: January 2013

We examine the link between the growing emphasis on corporate social responsibility at the organizational level and beliefs about social responsibility at work (SRW) expressed by individuals. Drawing from theories of professionalism and diffusion of innovations (including practices and beliefs), we advance hypotheses about beliefs of managers and non‐managers in 11 countries at two time periods, and use a unique international data set to test our hypotheses. Our general prediction that managers would score higher than non‐managers on a measure of SRW was not supported. However, further analysis revealed a more complex relationship moderated by the contextual factors of time frame and country inequality level. We discuss implications and extensions for future research.
Global Reporting Initiative and social impact in managing corporate responsibility: a case study of three multinationals in the forest industry
Authors: Toppinen Anne , Korhonen‐Kurki Kaisa
Published: January 2013

We examine recent evolution in corporate responsibility in the forest industry, an important natural‐resource‐based industry which is under rapid internationalisation and structural change under challenging financial pressures. We address two recent trends in corporate communication: corporate disclosure, that is the adoption of consistent external reporting standards [namely the Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) ], and the growing awareness of engagement with and impact on local communities through philanthropy, generation of prosperity, communication and the social impact of core activities. This study uses a comparative qualitative case approach to forest industry multinational enterprises (MNEs) based on a combination of secondary (reporting, company newsletters and other documentation) and interview data. Three large‐scale multinational forest industry firms, all pursuing different strategies in terms of internationalisation and geographical and product diversification, were chosen for the study: Stora Enso, SCA and Sappi Ltd. Our results show that the overall quality of sustainability reporting has improved in these companies from 2005 to 2009 with the adoption of GRI. However, based on our fourfold categorisation of social impact, the core social impact indicator in GRI (SO1) has been interpreted very differently in these MNEs, and the adoption of GRI has not actually much improved the comparability of the reports or transparency of practices.
‘Normal people can have a child but disability can't’: the experiences of mothers with mild learning disabilities who have had their children removed
Authors: Gould Sheila , Dodd Karen
Published: January 2013

Accessible summary

People with learning disabilities might have their children taken from their care. If they do, what then happens to the parents?

I talked to nine mums who had their children taken away from their care. They told me about what this was like and how they felt.

This research gives advice to people (particularly professional people) about how to work better with mums who have had their children removed. It also shows that sometimes it is difficult for people with learning disabilities to know their rights and say what they think.

There is a recognised risk of parents with learning disabilities having their children removed. Little research has investigated the impact of this on these parents. This article looks at the perceptions of nine mothers with mild learning disabilities and their experiences having had their children removed. Interview data were analysed using Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA). Findings reveal the struggles mothers with learning disabilities faced being ‘suitable mother’ – including presumed incompetence and scrutiny of parenting. Participants' responses to having had their children removed are looked at and support reviewed. Finally issues of power were highlighted throughout Participants' accounts and the impact of this is discussed. Clinical implications indicate areas for service improvement.
The impact of cantilevers on biological and technical success outcomes of implant‐supported fixed partial dentures. A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Kim Paul , Ivanovski Saso , Latcham Neil , Mattheos Nikos
Published: January 2013

Objective

To investigate the biological and technical success outcomes of implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses with and without cantilevers, after a minimum of one year loading.

Material and methods

One hundred and seven subjects with 128 cantilever FDPs (cFDP) supported by 132 implants were compared with 99 individuals with 144 non‐cantilever FPDs (ncFDPs) supported by 203 implants. Outcomes such as marginal bone loss from FDP insertion to final follow‐up as well as frequency and extent of biological and technical complications were investigated and correlated with patient, site, implant and FDP design characteristics.

Results

The cFDPs were followed for average of 51 months (1551 days, SD ± 977), and ncFPDs for 49 months (1483 days, SD ± 809 days). Implant survival and success rates were 96.7% and 87.9% for implant supporting cFDPs, and 99.5% and 92.6% for ncFDPs. There was no significant difference in overall bone loss between cFDPs and ncFDPs (cantilever side: 0.58, SD ± 1.16 – non‐cantilever side: 0.59, SD ± 0.99), but implants in the cantilever group lost significantly more bone in the posterior mandible (0.50 SD ± 1.3 mm for cFDPs and 0.24 SD ± 0.80 mm for ncFDPs). Within the cantilever group, cantilever arm length and implant location had an influence on bone loss. Regardless of the presence of cantilever, implants associated with technical complications had a higher rate of biological complications as well. Furthermore, the length of the cantilever arm was positively correlated with implant failure, technical complications and bone loss ≥1.5 mm (P = 0.011, <0.001, and 0.007).

Conclusion

Overall implants can be successfully used to support cantilever FDPs. However, there are technical and biological implications which appear inter‐related.
Long‐term prognostic value of inducible and resting perfusion defects detected by single‐photon emission computed tomography in the era of wide availability of coronary revascularization
Authors: Filipiak‐Strzecka Dominika , Kowalczyk Ewelina , Hamala Piotr , Kot Nina , Kasprzak Jarosław D. , Kuśmierek Jacek , Płachcińska Anna , Lipiec Piotr
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To assess the long‐term prognostic value of various types of perfusion defects detected by single‐photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) in patients with stable angina.

Methods

Seven hundred and thirty two patients (299 men, mean age 57 ± 9 years) with suspected or known stable coronary artery disease underwent rest/exercise SPECT protocol using 99mTc‐methoxyisobutylisonitrile (MIBI). All patients completed clinical follow‐up regarding cardiac events (cardiac death, sudden cardiac death, acute coronary syndrome, revascularization, cardiac hospitalization) for a mean period of 58 ± 8 months. Event rates were analysed in subgroups defined according to the presence of fixed or inducible myocardial perfusion defects.

Results

During the follow‐up, 15 cardiac deaths were recorded, 13 of which were qualified as a sudden cardiac death, 59 acute coronary syndromes, 65 revascularizations and 209 cardiac hospitalizations. The presence of inducible perfusion defects on SPECT was associated with a high risk for occurrence of all analysed end points: sudden cardiac death (HR = 3·96, P = 0·01), cardiac hospitalization (HR = 1·5, P = 0·004), coronary syndrome (HR = 2·33, P = 0·001) and coronary revascularization (HR = 2·76, P = 0·0002), except for the cardiac death (P = 0·27). Resting perfusion defects were highly predictive for cardiac death (HR = 7·45; P = 0·001), but not for other cardiac events (P = NS). The presence of any (inducible or resting) perfusion defects was associated with a high risk of all cardiovascular complications.

Conclusions

In long‐term follow‐up, SPECT proved highly predictive of cardiac events in patients with suspected or known CAD. In the revascularization era, cardiac death is most accurately related to the presence of resting perfusion defects, but all other cardiac events were better predicted by inducible perfusion defects.
Reliability of endogenous markers for estimation of residual renal function in haemodialysis patients
Authors: Kjaergaard Krista D. , Rehling Michael , Jensen Jens D. , Jespersen Bente
Published: January 2013

Background

Residual renal function in haemodialysis patients is of increasing interest. However, reproducibility and agreement between methods to measure and estimate glomerular filtration rate (GFR) require further elucidation. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of GFR estimates based on endogenous markers in haemodialysis patients.

Methods

Twelve patients were examined twice. GFR was estimated by (i) urine clearances of creatinine, urea and the average of creatinine and urea clearance [U‐Cl(crea‐urea)]; (ii) an equation based on serum concentration of cystatin C [eGFR(CysC)]. These were compared to 51Cr‐EDTA clearance in plasma [P‐Cl(EDTA)] and urine [U‐Cl(EDTA)].

Results

U‐Cl(crea‐urea) produced results similar to U‐Cl(EDTA). eGFR(CysC) had a low week‐to‐week variability. Visually, eGFR(CysC) differed from y = x when compared to the other methods indicating bias, probably due to extrarenal elimination of cystatin C. Coefficients of variation were significantly different, P<0·001: P‐Cl(EDTA), 10%; U‐Cl(EDTA), 13%; and U‐Cl(crea‐urea), 13%. P‐Cl(EDTA) was 2·1 ml min−1 1·73 m−2 higher than U‐Cl(EDTA) (mean).

Conclusions

Glomerular filtration rate in haemodialysis patients can be estimated from U‐Cl(crea‐urea) when complete urine collection is performed. The available eGFR(CysC) in haemodialysis patients seemed to be biased, and further development and validation is desirable. P‐Cl(EDTA) was the most reproducible method and might be useful in special situations.
AFLP analyses of California and Mediterranean populations of Seiridium cardinale provide insights on its origin, biology and spread pathways
Authors: Della Rocca G. , Osmundson T. , Danti R. , Doulis A. , Pecchioli A. , Donnarumma F. , Casalone E. , Garbelotto M.
Published: January 2013

Seiridium cardinale is regarded as the most important agent responsible for the disease of cupressaceous hosts referred to as Cypress canker. The fungus was first described in California and is currently reported in all continents. A recent study based on seven SSR loci has suggested that California populations may represent the source of the epidemic in the Mediterranean. In this study, 185 AFLP markers were used on an expanded sample size of 125 isolates to determine whether the Mediterranean population may indeed be derived from the California one and to compare the reproductive modes of populations in the two regions of the world. Additionally, amova, NJ, STRUCTURE, principal component analysis and β‐tubulin sequence analyses were employed to infer the presence of genetic structure within and between populations. The distribution of pairwise AFLP similarity coefficients suggests Mediterranean populations are reproducing only clonally, while California populations are reproducing both clonally and sexually. amova indicates Mediterranean and California populations are currently genetically isolated, but NJ and STRUCTURE analyses both suggest ancestral Mediterranean genotypes belong to the California population. No alleles were private to either population, and the presence of identical or quasi‐identical genotypes at large distances supports the notion that movement of infected cypress plants is responsible for the global spread of the disease. Surprisingly, STRUCTURE identified a second cluster of Mediterranean genotypes distinct from the basal mixed California–Mediterranean cluster. This second cluster either may have originated from the first one under the selection pressure imposed on the pathogen in the new Mediterranean environments or may be the result of a further introduction from California or elsewhere. Cumulatively, the evidence presented here suggests that S. cardinale may be native or long naturalized in California and that two genetically distinct groups are present in the Mediterranean, with obvious implications for further studies on this disease.
Increased expression of glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptors in psoriasis plaques
Authors: Faurschou Annesofie , Pedersen Jens , Gyldenløve Mette , Poulsen Steen S. , Holst Jens J. , Thyssen Jacob P. , Zachariae Claus , Vilsbøll Tina , Skov Lone , Knop Filip K.
Published: January 2013

Recent case reports suggest that treatment with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 (GLP‐1) agonists results in clinical improvement of psoriasis. The purpose of this study was to determine whether GLP‐1 receptors (GLP‐1Rs) are found in the skin of healthy volunteers and psoriasis patients and if so, whether GLP‐1Rs are located on keratinocytes or immune cells.

Three mm‐punch skin biopsies were taken for gene expression analysis from six healthy volunteers and from affected and unaffected skin of six psoriasis patients. In addition, a blood sample was obtained from all participants. Cultured human keratinocytes were either untreated or incubated with tumor necrosis factor‐ α (TNF‐α), interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) or a combination of TNF‐α and IFN‐γ for 48 h. Total RNA was extracted from all the samples, reversely transcribed and analysed for the expression of GLP‐1R using real‐time PCR.

Gene expression analysis showed expression of GLP‐1Rs in five of six skin biopsies from psoriasis plaques, in one of six biopsies from unaffected psoriatic skin and in one of six biopsies from healthy skin. GLP‐1R expression was found in the blood of both healthy volunteers and psoriasis patients. No GLP‐1R expression was found in either stimulated or unstimulated cultured human keratinocytes.

Our results show increased presence of GLP‐1Rs in psoriasis plaques and that this most likely is due to infiltration with immune cells. This offers a possible explanation for the positive effect of treatment with GLP‐1R agonists in patients with psoriasis.
The role of endocannabinoids in pain modulation
Authors: Zogopoulos Panagiotis , Vasileiou Ioanna , Patsouris Efstratios , Theocharis Stamatios E.
Published: January 2013

The endocannabinoid system (ES) is comprised of cannabinoid (CB) receptors, their endogenous ligands (endocannabinoids), and proteins responsible for their metabolism. Endocannabinoids serve as retrograde signaling messengers in GABAergic and glutamatergic synapses, as well as modulators of postsynaptic transmission, that interact with other neurotransmitters. Physiological stimuli and pathological conditions lead to differential increases in brain endocannabinoids that regulate distinct biological functions. Furthermore, endocannabinoids modulate neuronal, glial, and endothelial cell function and exert neuromodulatory, anti‐excitotoxic, anti‐inflammatory, and vasodilatory effects. Analgesia is one of the principal therapeutic targets of cannabinoids. Cannabinoid analgesia is based on the suppression of spinal and thalamic nociceptive neurons, but peripheral sites of action have also been identified. The chronic pain that occasionally follows peripheral nerve injury differs fundamentally from inflammatory pain and is an area of considerable unmet therapeutic need. Over the last years, considerable progress has been made in understanding the role of the ES in the modulation of pain. Endocannabinoids have been shown to behave as analgesics in models of both acute nociception and clinical pain such as inflammation and painful neuropathy. The framework for such analgesic effects exists in the CB receptors, which are found in areas of the nervous system important for pain processing and in immune cells that regulate the neuro‐immune interactions that mediate the inflammatory hyperalgesia. The purpose of this review is to present the available research and clinical data, up to date, regarding the ES and its role in pain modulation, as well as its possible therapeutic perspectives.
FISCAL DECENTRALIZATION AND ECONOMIC GROWTH: SPENDING VERSUS REVENUE DECENTRALIZATION
Authors: GEMMELL NORMAN , KNELLER RICHARD , SANZ ISMAEL
Published: January 2013

This article examines whether the efficiency gains accompanying fiscal decentralization generate higher growth in more decentralized economies, applying pooled‐mean group techniques to a panel dataset of 23 Organization for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) countries, 1972–2005. We find that spending decentralization has tended to be associated with lower economic growth while revenue decentralization has been associated with higher growth. Since OECD countries are substantially more spending than revenue decentralized, this is consistent with Oates' (1972) hypothesis that maximum efficiency gains require a close match between spending and revenue decentralization. It suggests reducing expenditure decentralization, and simultaneously increasing the fraction financed locally, would be growth‐enhancing. (JELE62, H71, H72)
Comparative outcomes of two instructional models for students with learning disabilities: inclusion with co‐teaching and solo‐taught special education
Authors: Tremblay Philippe
Published: January 2013

We compared two instructional models (co‐teaching inclusion and solo‐taught special education) for students with learning disabilities (LD) with regard to their effect on academic achievement and class attendance. Twelve inclusive classes (experimental group) and 13 special education classes (control group) participated in the study. In grade 1, there were eight inclusive classes and nine special education classes with a total of 353 students (195 without disabilities, 58 with LD in inclusion and 100 with LD in special education classes). The data were collected from academic tests. Although our results revealed no significant difference between the two models in terms of target population, objectives and assigned resources, significant differences were observed in the effects on student outcomes in reading/writing and on attendance, as the inclusion model was shown to be globally more effective compared with the special education setting.
I Feel Your Pain: The Moderating Effect of Care Recipient Health on the Relationship between Work Hours and Care Recipient and Caregiver Psychological Outcomes
Authors: Kulik Carol T. , Cregan Christina , Bainbridge Hugh T. J.
Published: January 2013

Public policy based on a pro‐work philosophy has encouraged the employment of people with disabilities.  Using a national sample of 170 care recipient–caregiver cohabiting dyads, we investigated a model linking the care recipient's weekly work hours (0–45) to the psychological outcomes experienced by the care recipient and his or her caregiver.  For care recipients in poor health, longer work hours were associated with a lower sense of accomplishment. Further, the negative psychological outcomes experienced by the care recipient were associated with greater caregiver stress. These results suggest that public policy concerning the employment of people with disabilities should be evaluated within the context of the caregiving relationship.  Efforts to engage people with disabilities in employment should be accompanied by strategies to remove workplace stressors that negatively impact care recipients in poor health.
Relationships between longevity, lifetime productivity, carcass traits and conformation in Polish maternal pig breeds
Authors: Sobczyńska M. , Blicharski T. , Tyra M.
Published: January 2013

The objective of this study was to obtain heritability estimates for longevity (length of life, length of productive life, number of litters) and lifetime productivity traits (lifetime pig production, lifetime pig efficiency, lifetime litter efficiency) and genetic correlation between them and litter size at first farrowing, growth (ADG), backfat thickness (BF), loin depth, lean meat percentage (LMP), phenotypic selection index (PSI), and exterior in 19423 Polish Landrace (L) and 16049 Polish Large White (LW) sows. Heritabilities for longevity and lifetime productivity traits were 0.10–0.13 for L sows and 0.09–0.11 for LW sows depending on the trait definition. The genetic correlations among these traits were all high and positive, ranging from 0.76 to 0.99. Antagonistic genetic correlations (−0.21 to −0.26) were found between longevity traits and PSI and LMP in LW sows, while in L sows the respective parameters were lower and not significant for length of productive life. The number of live‐born piglets in the first litter was positively correlated with lifetime pig production and lifetime pig efficiency in both breeds. The genetic correlations of longevity and lifetime pig production with ADG, BF, loin depth and exterior were small, and in most cases, not significant.
Circannual Variation in Thyroid Hormone Deiodinases in a Short‐Day Breeder
Authors: Sáenz de Miera C. , Hanon E. A. , Dardente H. , Birnie M. , Simonneaux V. , Lincoln G. A. , Hazlerigg D. G.
Published: January 2013

At temperate latitudes, many mammals and birds show internally timed, long‐term changes in seasonal physiology, synchronised to the seasons by changing day length (photoperiod). Photoperiodic control of thyroid hormone levels in the hypothalamus dictates the timing. This is effected through reciprocal regulation of thyroid hormone deiodinase gene expression. The local synthesis of type 2 deiodinase (Dio2) promotes triiodothyronine (T3) production and summer biology, whereas type 3 deiodinase (Dio3) promotes T3 degradation and winter biology. In the present study, we investigated the extent to which the hypothalamic expression of Dio2 and Dio3 is circannually regulated in the Soay sheep, a short‐day breeding mammal. Male sheep were exposed to a long photoperiod (LP; 16 : 24 h light/dark cycle) or a short photoperiod (SP; 8 : 24 h light/dark cycle), for up to 28 weeks to establish four different endocrine states: (i) LP animals in a spring/summer‐like state of reproductive arrest; (ii) LP refractory (LPR) animals showing spontaneous reproductive reactivation; (iii) SP animals showing autumn/winter‐like reproductive activation; and (iv) SP refractory (SPR) animals showing spontaneous reproductive arrest. A complex pattern of hypothalamic Dio2 and Dio3 expression was observed, revealing distinctive photoperiod‐driven and internally timed effects for both genes. The patterns of expression differed both spatially and temporally, with phases of peak Dio2 expression in the median eminence and tuberoinfundibular sulcus, as well as in the paraventricular zone (PVZ) (maximal under LP), whereas Dio3 expression was always confined to the PVZ (maximal under SP). These effects likely reflect the distinct roles of these enzymes in the localised control of hypothalamic T3 levels. The spontaneous decline in Dio2 and spontaneous increase in Dio3 in LPR animals occurred with a corresponding decline in thyroid‐stimulating hormone β expression in the neighbouring pars tuberalis (PT), although this relationship did not hold for the corresponding Dio2 increase/Dio3 decrease seen in SPR animals. We conclude that internally timed and spatially regulated changes in Dio2 and Dio3 expression may drive the cycling between breeding and nonbreeding states in long‐lived seasonal species, and may be either PT‐dependent or PT‐independent at different phases of the circannual cycle.
Trajectories and predictors of functional decline of hospitalised older patients
Authors: Huang Hui‐Tzu , Chang Chia‐Ming , Liu Li‐Fan , Lin Huey‐Shyan , Chen Ching‐Huey
Published: January 2013

Aims and objectives

To delineate the trajectories of functional status over four time points and to examine predictors of functional decline (FD) in hospitalised older patients.

Background

About 30–60% of the older patients develop new dependence in activities of daily living (ADL) during a hospital stay, which results in progressive disability after discharge. The functional trajectories and risk factors of FD among hospitalised older patients require identification.

Design

A cohort study.

Methods

The study consecutively recruited 273 patients aged 65 and older admitted to a medical centre in southern Taiwan. Functional trajectory, by ADL score, was observed at four time points: two weeks before admission, admission, discharge and three months after discharge. The ADL score two weeks before admission was used as a baseline functional status.

Results

Eighty‐three (30·4%) patients experienced FD at three months after discharge. Functional trajectory as shown by ADL scores indicated that all 273 patients dropped steeply at admission and that two‐thirds were gradually restored three months after discharge. Logistic regression revealed that the number of falls in the past year, Instrument Activities of Daily Living (IADL) status before admission, comorbidity and ADL decline between preadmission and discharge were significant predictors of FD three months after discharge. The ADL score decline during hospitalisation was the mediator of FD three months after discharge.

Conclusions

Findings indicate that the ADL function of those hospitalised older patients who reported having fallen more often in the previous year had more comorbidity, had a lower IADL score, and had more ADL score decline before admission and discharge would continue to decline after discharge.

Relevance to clinical practice

Clinical nurses can integrate the finding of this study with Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment to tailor intervention to restore older patient's physical function during hospitalisation.
Differential release of β‐NAD+ and ATP upon activation of enteric motor neurons in primate and murine colons
Authors: Durnin L. , Sanders K. M. , Mutafova‐Yambolieva V. N.
Published: January 2013

Background  The purinergic component of enteric inhibitory neurotransmission is important for normal motility in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. Controversies exist about the purine(s) responsible for inhibitory responses in GI muscles: ATP has been assumed to be the purinergic neurotransmitter released from enteric inhibitory motor neurons; however, recent studies demonstrate that β‐nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (β‐NAD+) and ADP‐ribose mimic the inhibitory neurotransmitter better than ATP in primate and murine colons. The study was designed to clarify the sources of purines in colons of Cynomolgus monkeys and C57BL/6 mice.

Methods  High‐performance liquid chromatography with fluorescence detection was used to analyze purines released by stimulation of nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) and serotonergic 5‐HT3 receptors (5‐HT3R), known to be present on cell bodies and dendrites of neurons within the myenteric plexus.

Key Results  Nicotinic acetylcholine receptor or 5‐HT3R agonists increased overflow of ATP and β‐NAD+ from tunica muscularis of monkey and murine colon. The agonists did not release purines from circular muscles of monkey colon lacking myenteric ganglia. Agonist‐evoked overflow of β‐NAD+, but not ATP, was inhibited by tetrodotoxin (0.5 μmol L−1) or ω‐conotoxin GVIA (50 nmol L−1), suggesting that β‐NAD+ release requires nerve action potentials and junctional mechanisms known to be critical for neurotransmission. ATP was likely released from nerve cell bodies in myenteric ganglia and not from nerve terminals of motor neurons.

Conclusions & Inferences  These results support the conclusion that ATP is not a motor neurotransmitter in the colon and are consistent with the hypothesis that β‐NAD+, or its metabolites, serve as the purinergic inhibitory neurotransmitter.
Comparison of the efficacy of ramosetron and ondansetron in the prophylaxis of postoperative vomiting in children receiving fentanyl by patient‐controlled analgesia after orthopedic surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Park Yong‐Hee , Jang Young‐Eun , Byon Hyo‐Jin , Kim Jin‐Tae , Kim Hee‐Soo
Published: January 2013

Background

This study was designed to compare the efficacy of prophylactic ramosetron and ondansetron in preventing postoperative vomiting in children who received fentanyl by patient‐controlled analgesia after orthopedic surgery.

Methods

Two hundred and eighteen children, 2–15 years old, ASA physical status 1 or 2, scheduled for elective orthopedic surgeries, were randomly divided into the ramosetron group (n = 109) or ondansetron group (n = 109). Patients in ondansetron group received ondansetron 100 μg·kg−1 and patients in ramosetron group received ramosetron 6 μg·kg−1 after surgery. Intravenous patient‐controlled analgesia with fentanyl was used in both groups. The incidence of postoperative vomiting and side effects were assessed during the 48 h after surgery.

Results

There was significantly less vomiting during the first 24‐h and 6–24‐h period after surgery in ramosetron group than in ondansetron group (P < 0.01). There were no significant differences in side effect of 5‐HT3 antagonist between the two groups.

Conclusion

Ramosetron was more effective during the first 24‐h period after surgery than ondansetron in children using fentanyl patient‐controlled analgesia after general anesthesia.
Pediatric scoliosis surgery – is postoperative intensive care unit admission really necessary?
Authors: Abu‐Kishk Ibrahim , Kozer Eran , Hod‐Feins Roei , Anekstein Yoram , Mirovsky Yigal , Klin Baruch , Eshel Gideon
Published: January 2013

Background

It is common practice for patients to be admitted to the intensive care unit following scoliosis surgery, because of the prolonged anesthesia, the need for efficient pain control and the known immediate postoperative complications. However, this may be unnecessary in many patients.

Purpose

We aimed to establish possible associations between pre‐ and perioperative parameters and early postoperative complication rates, in particular the need for prolonged mechanical ventilation (>1 day), and the presence of major complications in children undergoing primary spinal fusion by thoracolumbar spine instrumentation.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of children undergoing primary scoliosis surgery at a university‐affiliated general hospital from 1998 to 2008.

Results

Surgical approaches were as follows: anterior spinal fusion, posterior spinal fusion, and combined anterior and posterior fusion. Prior to mid‐2005, anesthesia included morphine; thereafter, remifentanil was used. Major complications correlated significantly with neuromuscular scoliosis (NMS) (OR, 4.94; 95% CI, 1.02–24.05), comorbidity conditions (OR, 3.47; 95% CI, 1.16–10.42), and anterior or combined fusion (OR, 7.81; 95% CI, 2.12–28.57). Late extubation correlated significantly with NMS (OR, 31.25; 95% CI, 1.06–100.00) and morphine use during anesthesia (OR, 17.91; 95% CI, 1.44–222.9).

Conclusions

Relatively young, healthy idiopathic scoliosis children receiving intraoperative remifentanil sedation and undergoing posterior fusion can be successfully managed in regular wards in the immediate postoperative period. However, intensive care unit admission should be considered in NMS patients, patients with comorbidity conditions, those undergoing anterior or combined spinal fusion, and patients whose anesthesia involves long‐acting opioids.
Appendix carcinoids in childhood: Long‐term experience at a single institution in Western Canada and systematic review
Authors: Kulkarni Ketan P. , Sergi Consolato
Published: January 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to describe the management experience of children with appendix carcinoids (AC).

Method

A systematic review of the literature pertaining to AC in the pediatric population was performed. PubMed, EMBASE and SCOPUS and most significant Congress proceedings were reviewed. In addition, charts and files at Stollery Children's Hospital, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada, were retrieved and the data compared with the scientific literature review.

Results

Between January 2000 and October 2010, seven patients had AC at the authors' institution. Mean age at diagnosis was 15 years while the male : female ratio was 3:4. Five out of seven patients presented with acute appendicitis. Size ranged up to 1.4 cm. In one case only lymph node metastases were observed. No distant metastases were seen in any patient. Carcinoid was low grade in all seven children. One patient suffered from familial adenomatous polyposis. At a mean follow up of 53.4 months, the outcome was excellent with all patients alive without disease. In the systematic review, 206 studies referring to AC in children were identified. Most series on childhood AC were small single‐center series with 2–19 patients.

Conclusions

Older age (>10 years) at diagnosis, female preponderance, and tumor diameter <1.5 cm were the salient observations in the present study. Surgical resection at an early stage allows for excellent prognosis without the need for any additional surgical or adjuvant treatment. Genetic counseling may be appropriate in view of the possible association with colonic adenocarcinoma.
Association of variants of ABCB11 with transient neonatal cholestasis
Authors: Liu Li‐Yan , Wang Xiao‐Hong , Lu Yi , Zhu Qi‐Rong , Wang Jian‐She
Published: January 2013

Background

The significance of ABCB11 variants have been studied in some cholestatic diseases, but this is not clear in transient neonatal cholestasis (TNC). The aim of the present study was to explore the association between ABCB11 variants and TNC.

Methods

This was a case–control study. A total of 192 children with TNC referred to a tertiary referral hospital in eastern China were enrolled as subjects, and 196 healthy children were selected as controls. Part of the promoter and exons of the ABCB11 gene were sequenced directly. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) site of V444A was tested using fluorescent quantitative polymerase chain reaction. Potential consequences of variants were predicted using bioinformatics software. The biochemistry indices were compared between the patients with or without possibly pathogenic variants/mutations.

Results

Twenty‐eight variants, including 14 novel ones, were detected. Four novel, possibly pathogenic mutations (I416I, K436N, R928Q and IVS7+5G>A) were detected in six subjects. The γ‐glutamyltransferase level of these six was lower than in the others (P = 0.054). The genotype distribution of the four common SNP sites, V444A, A535A, A865V and A1082A, was not significantly different between TNC patients and controls.

Conclusions

Approximately 3% of TNC cases can be attributed to ABCB11 mutations.
Twenty‐four‐hour measurement of IOP in rabbits using rebound tonometer
Authors: Wang Xiaogang , Dong Jing , Wu Qiang
Published: January 2013

Purpose

To observe the Intraocular pressure (IOP) measurements over a 24‐h period in New Zealand white rabbits.

Methods

Thirty‐four normal New Zealand white rabbits (68 eyes) were included in this study. The IOP values were determined with a rebound tonometer (RBT, Icare VET). Measurements were always obtained in the right eye first.

Results

The data showed that there was no significant difference in IOP between measurements, which indicated that the RBT showed good repeatability in this study (P = 0.920). There was no statistically significant difference between genders (P = 0.943). The IOP in right eyes was a little higher than left eyes (F = 45.96, P < 0.001). Comparison of the true IOP and RBT results over the entire pressure range (8–100 mmHg) revealed a statistically significant difference between them (P < 0.001). The mean difference between the RBT and true IOP (RBT−True IOP) was −22.65 ± 9.52 mmHg with 95% confidence interval (−27.1, −18.2 mmHg). In the light period (7 AM to 7 PM), the IOP was a little lower than during the dark period (8 PM to 6 AM); 9 AM and 2 PM were the lowest measurements (10 mmHg, 9.625 mmHg), and 10 AM (14.125 mmHg)was the highest measurement during the 24‐h period.

Conclusions

The IOP obtained by RBT underestimated the true IOP but the RBT had a good repeatability in IOP measurements. In the light period (7 AM to 7 PM), the IOP was a little lower than during the dark period (8 PM to 6 AM), which may be beneficial to the intervention therapy observation of glaucoma research in rabbits.