bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Serine biosynthesis by photorespiratory and non‐photorespiratory pathways: an interesting interplay with unknown regulatory networks
Authors: Ros R. , Cascales‐Miñana B. , Segura J. , Anoman A. D. , Toujani W. , Flores‐Tornero M. , Rosa‐Tellez S. , Muñoz‐Bertomeu J.
Published: November 2012

Photorespiration is a primary metabolic pathway, which, given its energy costs, has often been viewed as a wasteful process. Despite having reached the consensus that one important function of photorespiration is the removal of toxic metabolite intermediates, other possible functions have emerged, and others could well emerge in the future. As a primary metabolic pathway, photorespiration interacts with other routes; however the nature of these interactions is not well known. One of these interacting pathways could be the biosynthesis of serine, since this amino acid is synthesised through photorespiratory and non‐photorespiratory routes. At present, the exact contribution of each route to serine supply in different tissues and organs, their biological significance and how pathways are integrated and/or regulated remain unknown. Here, we review the non‐photorespiratory serine biosynthetic pathways, their interactions with the photorespiratory pathway, their putative role in plants and their biotechnological interest.
In situ and intraductal epithelial proliferations of prostate: definitions and treatment implications
Authors: Clouston David , Bolton Damien
Published: November 2012

High‐grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN) is an intracellular proliferation of ductal epithelial cells. On its own, the presence of HGPIN does not warrant active intervention.

In contrast, intraductal carcinoma of prostate and prostatic ductal adenocarcinoma of prostate are markers of aggressive prostatic adenocarcinoma.

The presence of even small foci of these tumours on biopsy warrants immediate intervention, even in the absence of demonstrable invasive disease.

This second part of the review of in situ epithelial proliferations of the prostate looks at these conditions in more detail.
Newer and novel artificial urinary sphincters (AUS): the development of alternatives to the current AUS device
Authors: Chung Eric , Ranaweera Matheesha , Cartmill Ross
Published: November 2012

Introduction

The current artificial urinary sphincter (AUS), AMS 800™ (American Medical Systems, Minnesota, MN, USA) is considered the standard of care for the treatment of urinary incontinence (UI).

While the long‐term effectiveness, safety, and durability of the current model of the AMS 800 are well documented, it is not without its limitations and complications. Over the last few years, improvements in design and innovative research into AUS devices have increased the treatment arsenal in male UI.

Methods

Articles from peer‐reviewed journals, abstracts from scientific meetings and electronic literature searches formed the basis of this review.

Results

Newer AUS models, e.g. FlowSecure™, Zephyr™, Pro‐ACT™ and other novel experimental AUS devices, are designed to simulate a healthy human sphincter and address the limitation of the existing AMS 800 device.

Conclusions

Newer and novel AUS models are innovative and showed promising outcomes in short‐ to intermediate‐term follow‐up.

However, there exists the need for prospective randomised clinical trials and complete reporting of adverse and long‐term results before these AUS models can replace the existing AMS 800 device.
Integrating disparate snippets of information in an approach to PSA testing in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Gardiner Robert (‘Frank’) A. , Yaxley John , Baade Peter D.
Published: November 2012

An invited response to ‘Stricker PD, Frydenberg M, Kneebone A, Chopra S. Informed prostate cancer risk‐adjusted testing: a new paradigm’.
Informed prostate cancer risk‐adjusted testing: a new paradigm
Authors: Stricker Phillip D , Frydenberg Mark , Kneebone Andrew , Chopra Samarth
Published: November 2012

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

There is now clear evidence that prostate‐specific antigen testing will reduce death from prostate cancer and this data can be used to define those subgroups of men that most stand to benefit from prostate cancer screening. This will help minimise over‐detection and improve information provided, so men can provide informed consent.

We feel that risk‐adjusted screening guidelines, such as the one proposed in the present article, should become the new standard for prostate cancer testing, which will hopefully resolve some of the confusion held by patients and clinicians alike.

Currently there is significant confusion and polarisation about prostate cancer screening for both patients and physicians alike.

We propose a risk‐adjusted testing programme, which would lead to fewer patients who need to be tested and treated to save a life and also eliminate inappropriate prostate‐specific antigen testing in the elderly and patients with severe co‐morbidities where there is no clear benefit.
INSIDE AN ENTREPRENEUR'S MIND: DNA INC.
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: November 2012

From co‐founding lastminute.com to an array of investments and directorships, Brent Hoberman has entrepreneurial DNA. He explains how and why.
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: THE QUIET REVOLUTION
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: November 2012

Quietly and powerfully, social enterprise has moved from the periphery to take centre stage. Stuart Crainer charts its rise.
LEADING SOCIALLY: INTERVIEW DAME MARY MARSH
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: November 2012

Dame Mary Marsh learned leadership in the classroom. Now she is helping create a new generation of social leaders.
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: THE KATINE LEGACY
Authors: Brooks Tim
Published: November 2012

The benefits of corporate social responsibility initiatives have long been debated; and even the best‐laid plans, under scrutiny, can show possible flaws. What really happens when first world corporations meet third world development?Tim Brooks provides insights from the Katine Project in Uganda, which enjoyed wide support and notable praise, but whose legacy is still questioned.
SOCIAL ENTERPRISE: MPOWER
Authors: McCarty M. Yasmina
Published: November 2012

From banking the unbanked to giving access to healthcare, mobile phones are increasingly tools for social change and economic improvement. M. Yasmina McCarty charts the mPowering of economic development.
PLAN B: RE‐THINKING FUNDING
Authors: Mullins John
Published: November 2012

Venture capital is the default route to win funding and grow a business. But, says John Mullins, there is another way, one which works for entrepreneurs and venture capitalists alike. The author of The New Business Road Test and co‐author of Getting to Plan B talks to BSR about his latest thinking.
INSIDE YOUR BUSINESS: UNDERCOVER LESSONS
Authors: Crainer Stuart
Published: November 2012

How much time do and should business leaders spend on the frontline?Stuart Crainer goes undercover.
Real inequality in the early modern Low Countries: the city of ’s‐Hertogenbosch, 1500–1660
Authors: Hanus Jord
Published: November 2012

This article studies the welfare effects of economic growth in the early modern Low Countries. It applies the recently developed concept of ‘real inequality’ to a case study of sixteenth‐ and seventeenth‐century ’s‐Hertogenbosch in the Southern Netherlands and demonstrates, by incorporating relative price movements, that specific (and in this case stagnant) nominal income inequality trajectories may disguise underlying shifts in real inequality that are influenced by socially biased relative prices. The analysis is then extended to include changes in demography and household size, which reveals a second important limitation in the study of long‐term economic inequality. In contrast to the stagnation and eventual decline in nominal inequality seen in ’s‐Hertogenbosch during the long sixteenth century (1500–1650), this broadened concept of ‘augmented’ real inequality in fact suggests the occurrence of a significant upturn during the first half of the sixteenth century. Furthermore, while nominal inequality had decreased, real inequality appears to have been higher by the middle of the seventeenth century than it had been around 1500. The study of global and/or long‐term inequality, in particular, would benefit greatly from a proper social, economic, and historical contextualization of these trends, not least in terms of the social biases in relative prices and household composition.
Mammal fauna during the Late Pleistocene and Holocene in the far northeast of Europe
Authors: Ponomarev Dmitry , Puzachenko Andrey , Bachura Olga , Kosintsev Pavel , van der Plicht Johannes
Published: November 2012

The paper summarises materials on the mammal remains in northeastern Europe, dated by radiocarbon. Altogether, 23 local faunas of small mammals and 47 local faunas of large mammals were analysed. Multidimensional statistical analysis shows a strong correlation between changes in small mammal fauna composition and climate changes throughout time. The correlations with the spatial gradients, however, are less pronounced. The faunas are classified into three groups: (1) faunas of Holocene age; (2) Late Pleistocene ‘stadial’ assemblages; and (3) Late Pleistocene ‘interstadial’ assemblages. In some cases, changes in species abundance are better understood in terms of biotic interrelations rather than of climatic effects. The most pronounced change in small mammal fauna composition and structure occurred at the Preboreal/Boreal boundary, and a less conspicuous alteration took place at the LGM/Lateglacial transition. The most noticeable transformation in the large mammal fauna composition is dated to the early Holocene. Less significant changes are observed at the Middle Weichselian/LGM transition and at the LGM/Lateglacial transition. It is safely concluded that variations in the faunas of small and large mammals recorded in NE Europe during the last 35 000 years occurred synchronously and unidirectionally.
Mechanical Analysis of Twelve Toggle Suture Constructs for Stabilization of Coxofemoral Luxations
Authors: Jha Shantibhushan , Kowaleski Michael P.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To compare the mechanical performance of 12 commonly used toggle suture constructs (TSCs).

Study Design

In vitrobiomechanical study.

Sample Population

Toggle suture constructs (n = 136).

Methods

TSCevaluated included #5OrthoFiber, double strand of 5 Ethibond sutures (polyethylene terephthalate suture), 80 lb monofilament nylon, or #5 FiberWire, combined with Piermattei toggle (3/32" Steinmann pin), modified Piermattei toggle (0.045" Kirschner wire), and 1/8" Securos toggle rod for a total of 12 test groups. Acute and cyclic testing were performed using a servohydraulic testing machine and load at failure and cycles to failure were determined.

Results

In acute testing, modifiedPiermatteiTSCs failed by toggle deformation andPiermattei andSecurosTSCs failed by suture breakage at the eyelet. Mean failure load ofPiermattei‐#5OrthoFiberTSC(1416 ± 74 N) was significantly greater than that ofPiermattei‐#5Ethibond (883 ± 38 N); both were significantly greater than all otherTSCs. Only thePiermatteiTSCwith #5OrthoFiber, #5Ethibond, and 80 lb monofilament nylon did not fail during cyclic testing.

Conclusion

A combination of thePiermattei toggle and #5OrthoFiber or #5Ethibond achieved a higher load at failure than all other groups, and resisted the greatest number of cycles to failure. Long‐term mechanical testing of theseTSCs are warranted to further define their durability.
Ex vivoContact Mechanics and Three‐Dimensional Alignment of Normal Dog Elbows after Proximal Ulnar Rotational Osteotomy
Authors: Cuddy Laura C. , Lewis Daniel D. , Kim Stanley E. , Conrad Bryan P. , Banks Scott A. , Horodyski MaryBeth , Fitzpatrick Noel , Pozzi Antonio
Published: November 2012

Objective

To evaluate the effect of proximal ulnar rotational osteotomy (PURO) on the contact mechanics and 3‐dimensional (3D) alignment of cadaveric normal dog elbows.

Study Design

Ex vivobiomechanical study.

Animals

Unpaired thoracic limbs from 12 dogs (mean ± SD weight, 26 ± 4 kg).

Methods

PUROconsisted of a transverse osteotomy with 30° external rotation of the proximal segment. With the limb under 200 N axial load, contact area (CA), mean contact pressure (CP) and peak contact pressure (PCP) were measured using digital pressure sensors in the medial and lateral compartments and 3D static elbow poses were obtained, before and afterPURO. Each specimen was tested at 115°, 135°, and 155° elbow flexion, with the antebrachium in neutral rotation, in 28° supination, and in 16° pronation. Repeated measures ANOVAs with post‐hoc Bonferroni (P≤ .05) were performed.

Results

PUROcaused significant changes, mostly at 135° elbow flexion and neutral antebrachial rotation, characterized by decreasedCP(10%) andPCP(10%) in the medial compartment, and increasedCP(27%) andPCP(23%) in the lateral compartment. The apex of the medial coronoid process translated 3.4 mm caudally, 1.7 mm abaxially, and rotated 1.8° externally relative to the radial head. Humeroradial varus angulation reduced by 6.7°.

Conclusions

In limited poses,PUROdisplaces the medial coronoid process caudally and abaxially and shifts contact pressures towards the lateral elbow compartment by decreasing varus angulation.
Tenoscopic Surgical Treatment of Tears of the Manica Flexoria in 53 Horses
Authors: Findley Judith Alice , De Oliveira Fil , Bladon Bruce
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine typical clinical features associated with tears of the manica flexoria (MF) and prognosis for return to athletic function after surgical resection.

Study design

Case series.

Methods

Medical records (January 2001–December 2011) of horses that underwent tenoscopic surgical treatment of MF tears were reviewed and outcome obtained by telephone questionnaire of owners.

Results

Fifty three horses (65 MF tears) were treated; 83% were cobs or ponies. Injuries occurred more frequently in hindlimbs (85%) and effusion of the digital flexor tendon sheath was associated with all MF tears. Follow‐up (>3 months after surgery) revealed that 42 horses (79%) returned to pre‐injury level of ridden exercise, 7 horses returned to a lower level of exercise, 3 remained lame, and 1 was euthanatized.

Conclusions

Injury to the MF is most likely to occur in hindlimbs with cobs and ponies overrepresented.
Effect of Contouring on Bending Structural Stiffness and Bending Strength of the 3.5 Titanium SOP Implant
Authors: Rutherford Scott , Ness Malcolm G.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To compare the bending structural stiffness (BSS) and bending strength (BS) of the 3.5 titanium (Ti) string of pearls (SOP) plate and the 3.5 316LVM stainless steel SOP plate; and the effect of contouring on the BSS and BS of the 3.5 Ti SOP plate.

Study Design

In vitro experimental static 4‐point bending materials testing.

Sample Population

Twenty‐five 3.5 mm Ti and five 3.5 mm 316LVM stainless steel SOP locking bone plates.

Methods

Each plate was tested in 4‐point bending until 10 mm of displacement was achieved. BSS and BS were then calculated for each plate. A 2‐sample t‐test was used to compare the mean BSS and BS of the different groups.

Results

The 3.5 Ti SOP plate had lower mean BSS (0.00263 Nm2) but similar mean BS (12.8 Nm) when compared to the 3.5 316LVM SOP (0.00402 Nm2, 13.0 Nm). Prebending the 3.5 Ti SOP diminished its mean BSS (0.00224 Nm2) and mean BS (9.4 Nm) when compared to the Ti control. Pretwisting the 3.5 Ti SOP increased its mean BSS (0.00273 Nm2) but decreased its mean BS (12.4 Nm) when compared to the Ti control.

Conclusion

The 3.5 Ti SOP is less stiff but of similar strength to the 3.5 316LVM stainless steel SOP. Prebending the Ti SOP significantly lowers its stiffness and strength. Pretwisting the SOP actually increases its stiffness but slightly lowers its strength.
Effect of Two Instrument Designs on Laparoscopic Skills Performance
Authors: Barry Sabrina L. , Fransson Boel A. , Spall Benjamin F. , Gay John M.
Published: November 2012

Objective

To determine whether laparoscopic skills performance is affected by instrument design.

Study Design

Randomized crossover study.

Sample Population

Veterinarians (n = 14) with variable laparoscopic experience.

Methods

Laparoscopic skills performance was assessed with the McGill Inanimate System for Training and Evaluation of Laparoscopic Skills (MISTELS). Participants performed 3 MISTELS tasks twice during 2 sessions (4 tests total). Each set of instruments (set A, B) was used once during each session, and instrument order was switched between the first and second sessions. Surgeons were randomly allocated to either the AB‐BA or the BA‐AB sequence in a balanced fashion. Scores were compared between instrument sets A and B.

Results

Overall, participants performed better when using set A compared with set B. This difference was most striking in the pattern‐cutting task (which used scissors and graspers), less convincing in the peg transfer task (which used 2 graspers), and nonexistent in the ligature loop task (which used 1 grasper and 1 pretied ligature loop).

Conclusions

Laparoscopic skills performance, as assessed by MISTELS testing, is affected by instrument design.
In VitroMechanical Testing of an Alternate Laryngoplasty System(ALPS) for Horses
Authors: Ahern Benjamin J. , Boston Raymond C. , Parente Eric J.
Published: November 2012

Objective

Mechanical evaluation of a novel alternate laryngoplasty system (ALPS).

Study Design

Experimental.

Animal Population

Cadaveric horse larynges (n = 10).

Methods

Arytenoid and cricoid cartilages were embedded for testing. A novel laryngoplasty system consisting of a metallic anchor, 2 stands of #2 suture material, and a metallic button were evaluated. A traditional laryngoplasty using a single strand of #5Ethibond was evaluated in parallel. Constructs were evaluated in cyclic testing oscillating from 30 to 50 N for 3600 cycles. Constructs subsequently underwent a single cycle to failure. Distraction during cyclic testing was recorded. Load at failure and stiffness were calculated from single‐cycle failure testing.

Results

There was no difference in mean arytenoid single‐cycle load‐to‐failure for theEthibond (206.9 ± 13.1 N) constructs compared withALPS(220.6 ±17.1 N) constructs (P= .486). In the cricoid under single‐cycle testing, theALPS(236.0 ± 23.4 N) constructs were significantly stronger than the Ethibond (161.5 ± 12.2 N) constructs (P= .013). The combined distraction was significantly greater forEthibond (6.29 ± 1.24 mm) constructs compared to theALPS(3.43 ± 0.28 mm) constructs (P= .033).

Conclusions

TheALPSconstruct was stiffer and at least as strong as the traditional laryngoplasty construct in single cycle failure in both the arytenoid and cricoid cartilages. Combined distraction was significantly reduced using theALPScompared to the traditional laryngoplastyin vitrounder cyclic testing.
TGF‐β1 expression in wound healing is acutely affected by experimental malnutrition and early enteral feeding
Authors: Alves Claudia Cristina , Torrinhas Raquel Susana , Giorgi Ricardo , Brentani Maria Mitzi , Logullo Angela Flavia , Waitzberg Dan Linetzky
Published: November 2012

Malnutrition is associated with the delay or failure of healing. We assessed the effect of experimental malnutrition and early enteral feeding with standard diet or diet supplemented with arginine and antioxidants on the levels of mRNA encoding growth factors in acute, open wound healing. Standardised cutaneous dorsal wounds and gastrostomies for enteral feeding were created in malnourished (M, n = 27) and eutrophic control (E, n = 30) Lewis male adult rats. Both M and E rats received isocaloric and isonitrogenous regimens with oral chow and saline (C), standard (S) or supplemented (A) enteral diets. On post‐trauma day 7, mRNA levels of growth factor genes were analysed in wound granulation tissue by reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). M(C) rats had significantly lower transforming growth factor β(TGF‐β1) mRNA levels than E(C) rats (2·58 ± 0·83 versus 3·53 ± 0·57, P < 0·01) and in comparison with M(S) and M(A) rats (4·66 ± 2·49 and 4·61 ± 2·11, respectively; P < 0·05). VEGF and KGF‐7 mRNA levels were lower in M(A) rats than in E(A) rats (0·74 ± 0·16 versus 1·25 ± 0·66; and 1·07 ± 0·45 versus 1·79 ± 0·89, respectively; P≤ 0·04), but did not differ from levels in E(C) and M(C) animals. In experimental open acute wound healing, previous malnutrition decreased local mRNA levels of TGF‐β1 genes, which was minimised by early enteral feeding with standard or supplemented diets.
Generalized Radial Flow in Synthetic Flow Systems
Authors: Bowman Dale O. , Roberts Randall M. , Holt Robert M.
Published: November 2012

Traditional analysis methods used to determine hydraulic properties from pumping tests work well in many porous media aquifers, but they often do not work in heterogeneous and fractured‐rock aquifers, producing non‐plausible and erroneous results. The generalized radial flow model developed by Barker (1988) can reveal information about heterogeneity characteristics and aquifer geometry from pumping test data by way of a flow dimension parameter. The physical meaning of non‐integer flow dimensions has long been a subject of debate and research. We focus on understanding and interpreting non‐radial flow through high permeability conduits within fractured aquifers. We develop and simulate flow within idealized non‐radial flow conduits and expand on this concept by simulating pumping in non‐fractal random fields with specific properties that mimic persistent sub‐radial flow responses. Our results demonstrate that non‐integer flow dimensions can arise from non‐fractal geometries within aquifers. We expand on these geometric concepts and successfully simulate pumping in random fields that mimic well‐test responses seen in the Culebra Dolomite above the Waste Isolation Pilot Plant.
Intratesticular 13‐cis retinoic acid is lower in men with abnormal semen analyses: a pilot study
Authors: Nya‐Ngatchou J. J. , Arnold S. L. M. , Walsh T. J. , Muller C. H. , Page S. T. , Isoherranen N. , Amory J. K.
Published: November 2012

Intratesticular retinoic acid is necessary for spermatogenesis, but the relationship between intratesticular retinoic acid and sperm quality in man has not been studied. We hypothesized that intratesticular concentrations of retinoic acid would be lower in men with abnormal semen analyses compared to men with normal semen analyses. We recruited men requiring scrotal or penile surgery in a pilot observational study examining the relationship between sperm quality and intratesticular and serum retinoic acid. Twenty‐four men provided two pre‐operative blood and semen samples, and underwent a testicular biopsy during surgery. Serum and tissue all‐trans and 13‐cis retinoic acid and reproductive hormones were measured by LC/MS/MS and radioimmunoassays, respectively. Seven men had abnormal semen analyses by at least one WHO criteria and 17 men were normal. In men with abnormal semen, the median (25th, 75th percentile) intratesticular 13‐cis retinoic acid was 0.14 (0.08, 0.25) pmol/gram tissue compared with 0.26 (0.18, 0.38) pmol/gram tissue in men with normal semen (p = 0.04). There were no significant differences in intratesticular all‐trans retinoic acid or serum reproductive hormones between men with normal and abnormal semen analyses. Intratesticular 13‐cis retinoic acid is significantly lower in men with abnormal semen analyses compared to men with normal semen analyses. Lower intratesticular 13‐cis retinoic acid concentrations may be due to decreased biosynthesis or increased metabolism in the testes. Further investigation of the relationship between intratesticular 13‐cis retinoic acid and poor sperm quality is warranted to determine if this association is present in infertile men.
Spermatozoa and seminal plasma fatty acids as predictors of cryopreservation success
Authors: Martínez‐Soto J. C. , Landeras J. , Gadea J.
Published: November 2012

There is a lack of information about the importance of fatty acid composition of the human sperm membranes and seminal plasma in the cryopreservation procedure. Our aims were to study the possible relationships between the fatty acid composition of human spermatozoa or seminal fluid before freezing, and the sperm quality, measured in terms of viability and motility, before and after freezing–thawing. A further objective of this study was to determine whether the antioxidant capacity (TAC) of the seminal plasma is related to fatty acid (FA) composition and to success of the cryopreservation process. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), ω3 PUFAs and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in spermatozoa were significantly positively correlated with sperm viability and motility parameters before and after freezing. An inverse relationship was found for monounsaturated (MUFA), ratio ω6/ω3, ratio saturated saturated fatty acids/PUFA (SFA/PUFA) with the seminal parameters. Seminal plasma fatty acid composition was not related to viability. However, motility parameters before and after freezing were related to stearic acid (C18:0) and DHA. TAC in seminal plasma was directly related to PUFA, w3 and DHA. On the other hand, SFA, C22:0, C24:0 and MUFA in seminal plasma were inversely related to the antioxidant capacity. TAC was directly correlated with motion parameters after thawing, We described a significant correlation between the fatty acid composition of the human spermatozoa or seminal plasma and the sperm parameters of the samples after thawing. PUFA, W3 and specially DHA are directly correlated with sperm motility and viability after freezing/thawing, and MUFA was inversely correlated. This means that in the future the fatty acid composition could be used as a predictor of the capacity of cryopreservation. On the other hand, we could design further procedures to modify the lipid composition or/and antioxidant capacity of ejaculate to make it more resistant to the cryopreservation process.
Benefits of psychosocial intervention and continuity of care by child and family health nurses in the pre‐ and postnatal period: process evaluation
Authors: Kemp Lynn , Harris Elizabeth , McMahon Catherine , Matthey Stephen , Vimpani Graham , Anderson Teresa , Schmied Virginia , Aslam Henna
Published: November 2012

Aim

To report a programme theory for pre‐natal home visiting by nurses in the context of a sustained nurse home visiting programme by exploring pre‐ and postnatal outcomes and characteristics of the intervention that may have contributed to the outcomes.

Background

Studies have shown sustained nurse home visiting commencing pre‐natally to be effective. Few studies have explored the processes by which pre‐natal activities by nurses contribute to achieving effective outcomes.

Design

Process evaluation.

Methods

Process and outcome data from a randomized controlled trial of sustained nurse home visiting in an area of socioeconomic disadvantage in Western Sydney between 2005–2008 were collated. The pre‐natal intervention focused on improving transition to parenting by supporting mothers through pregnancy. Health and service use outcome data were analysed for 208 women (111 intervention; 97 comparison receiving usual care). Five nurses delivering the intervention completed checklists detailing activities undertaken.

Results

Nurses provided information, psychosocial support, and health promoting activities for families. Intervention mothers had a higher rate of unassisted vaginal births than the general population. Compared with comparison mothers, intervention mothers at 4–6 weeks postnatally reported better general health and felt significantly more enabled to cope with and understand their baby and to care for themselves and their baby.

Conclusion

Comprehensive support, in a context of enabling client‐nurse relationships and continuity of carer are the ways by which antenatal nurse home visiting achieves benefits for women and infants, having an impact on both clinical outcomes such as rates of normal vaginal delivery and maternal service engagement.
Differential introgression from a sister species explains highFSToutlier loci within a mussel species
Authors: Gosset C. C. , Bierne N.
Published: November 2012

Scanning genomes for loci with high levels of population differentiation has become a standard of population genetics.FSToutlier loci are most often interpreted as signatures of local selection, but outliers might arise for many other reasons too often left unexplored. Here, we tried to identify further the history and genetic basis underlying strong differentiation atFSToutlier loci in a marine mussel. A genome scan of genetic differentiation has been conducted betweenAtlantic andMediterranean populations ofMytilus galloprovincialis. The differentiation was low overall (FST = 0.03), but seven loci (2%) were strongFSToutliers. We then analysedDNAsequence polymorphism at two outlier loci. The genetic structure proved to be the consequence of differential introgression of alleles from the sister‐hybridizing speciesMytilus edulis. Surprisingly, theMediterranean population was the most introgressed at these two loci, although the contact zone between the two species is nowadays localized along theAtlantic coasts ofFrance and theBritishIsles. A historical contact betweenM. edulisandMediterraneanM. galloprovincialisshould have happened during glacial periods. It proved difficult to disentangle two hypotheses: (i) introgression was adaptive, implyingedulisalleles have been favoured inMediterranean populations, or (ii) the genetic architecture of the barrier toedulisgene flow is different between the twoM. galloprovincialisbackgrounds. Five of the seven outliers betweenM. galloprovincialispopulations were also outliers betweenM. edulisandAtlanticM. galloprovincialis, which would support the latter hypothesis. Differential introgression across semi‐permeable barriers to gene flow is a neglected scenario to interpret outlying loci that may prove more widespread than anticipated.
Re‐Theorizing Change: Institutional Experimentation and the Struggle for Domination in the Field of Public Accounting
Authors: Malsch Bertrand , Gendron Yves
Published: November 2012

Using change theory integrated with Bourdieusian sociology, we re‐theorize a major institutional shift in the field of public accounting. The case we examine involves the consolidation of commercial values in the auditing profession. In reinterpreting this shift, we highlight an institutional process structured around a conflict between commercial innovators and guardians of the professional tradition. Our analysis indicates a peculiar kind of institutional work, wherein economic capital is reinforced at the field level while the logic of commercialism is strengthened in accounting firms' structures and practitioners' mindset. From our studying of the field of accountancy, we develop the concept of institutional experimentation in order to offer a view of institutional work as a fragile and unpredictable process. Specifically, the latter is subject to trials and tests by actors involved in a series of more or less connected experiments in trying to extend their professional jurisdiction through institutional innovation, while seeking to consolidate the traditional foundations of their jurisdictional legitimacy through institutional reproduction. Our paper also challenges the notion of organizational archetypes. While a focus on the firms' formal organizational parameters may suggest archetypical stability, the picture is more complex when one takes into account processes of institutional experimentation and the duality of institutional change and stability.
Disc displacement within the human temporomandibular joint: a systematic review of a ‘noisy annoyance’
Authors: Naeije M. , te Veldhuis A. H. , te Veldhuis E. C. , Visscher C. M. , Lobbezoo F.
Published: November 2012

To describe the scientific literature about the diagnosis, prevalence, aetiology, natural course and possible treatment modalities of disc displacements within the temporomandibular (TM) joint. PubMed was searched for specific indexing terms. The search yielded 1211 papers. After screening according to title and abstract, 695 papers were excluded, and after full‐text reading, 107 papers remained. Hand‐searching of the reference lists resulted in an extra 47 papers. Thirteen studies, published since the literature search was carried out, were also included, resulting in 167 papers for this review. A disc displacement is a highly prevalent derangement within the TM joint, with reported prevalence ranging from 18% to 35% in the general population. A disc displacement with reduction is mostly a stable, pain‐free and lifelong condition of the joint. In only a small minority of patients, the disc loses its capacity to reduce on opening. Surprisingly, only in rare cases, the loss of disc reduction is accompanied by signs and symptoms of a closed lock (viz. a painful and limited mouth opening). These signs and symptoms have a tendency to reduce and in many cases to resolve within months. The favourable natural course of disc displacements only warrants active treatment for symptomatic disc displacements without reduction. The primary treatment option is a conservative, non‐surgical treatment focusing at speeding up the natural process of alleviation of pain and of improvement in mouth opening. For most patients, a disc displacement is just a pain‐free, lifelong lasting, ‘noisy annoyance’ from their TM joint.
IMMIGRATION AND HOUSING BOOMS: EVIDENCE FROM SPAIN*
Authors: Gonzalez Libertad , Ortega Francesc
Published: November 2012

ABSTRACT We provide causal estimates of the effect of immigration on house prices and construction activity in Spain over the period 2000–2010. During this period Spain experienced spectacular swings in both immigration and the housing market. Our instrumental‐variables estimates suggest that between 2000 and 2010, immigration led to an average 1.5 percent annual increase in the working‐age population. This was responsible for an annual increase in housing prices of about 2 percent, and for a 1.2–1.5 percent increase in housing units. Overall, immigration was responsible for one quarter of the increase in prices and about half of the construction activity over the decade.
Characterization of Mitochondrial Proteomic Changes in Resistant Wheat Near‐Isogenic Line After Inoculation with Powdery Mildew
Authors: Liu Xiaoying , Gan Fu , Wang Zhenying , Gao Yue , Peng Yongkang , Dang Chen , Xie Chaojie , Liu Zhiyong , Yang Zuomin
Published: November 2012

Wheat powdery mildew resistance mechanisms have been studied extensively at genomic level, however, infection induced mitochondrial proteomic changes in resistant line have not been fully characterized. Being critical organelles of chemical energy metabolism, mitochondria have also been suggested to be involved in the environmental stress response. Using proteomic approaches, we did comparative analysis of mitochondrial proteome in resistant wheat near‐isogenic line (NIL) (Brock × Jing4117) and its recurrent parent Jing 411 after infection of Blumeria graminis f.sp. tritici (Bgt). More than 50 down‐regulated mitochondrial protein spots were identified in NIL after 24‐h pathogen inoculation, and their abundance recovered to the levels prior to infection after extended inoculation (72‐h). We further analyzed a subgroup of down‐regulated proteins using mass spectrometry. MS/MS data analysis revealed the identities of nine protein spots and assigned them into three functional classes: synthesis of protein, disease resistance response and energy metabolism. For the first time we demonstrated pathogen stress induced mitochondrial proteomic changes and provided evidences that wheat powdery mildew resistance involves multiple biochemical events. Moreover, our results indicate that wheat mitochondrial proteome analysis can serve as a powerful tool to identify potential regulators of fungal invasion resistance.
Cloning, Expression, Purification and Initial Analysis of a Novel Pectate Lyase Pcpel1 from Phytophthora capsici
Authors: Fu Li , Wang Hui Z. , Feng Bao Z. , Zhang Xiu G.
Published: November 2012

Phytophthora capsici inflicts damage on numerous crop plants by secreting a series of pectinase including pectate lyase (PEL). Here, we report a pectate lyase gene (Pcpel1) from a genomic library of a highly virulent P. capsici strain SD33. Pcpel1 was identified as an open reading frame of 1233 bp encoding a protein of 410 amino acids with a predicted amino‐terminal signal sequence of 21 amino acids. The predicted protein of Pcpel1 has a calculated molecular mass of 43.8 kDa and a pI value of 6.8. Analysis of the amino acid sequence suggested that it was a member of the polysaccharide lyase family 1 that shows pectate lyase activity. Moreover, heterologous expression of Pcpel1 in Pichia pastoris produced proteins with molecular mass 66 kDa, very likely due to differential glycosylation by the yeast. By western blotting and northern blotting analysis, Pcpel1 was strongly expressed during interaction of P. capsici with the host plant, suggesting its involvement in the process of host infection. The role of Pcpel1 in cell wall disassembly and host/parasite interaction is discussed.
The association between periodontitis and obstructive sleep apnea: a preliminary study
Authors: Seo W. H. , Cho E. R. , Thomas R. J. , An S‐Y , Ryu J. J. , Kim H. , Shin C.
Published: November 2012

Background and Objective

Periodontitis is becoming a highly prevalent disease worldwide. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) is a common disorder that is characterized by repeated disruptions in breathing during sleep, and mouth breathing is a common characteristic among patients with OSA. We aimed to assess the hypothesis that OSA is associated with the onset and progression of periodontal disease.

Material and Methods

This is a cross‐sectional study of a total of 687 participants (460 men and 227 women), 47–77 years of age, who were examined between August 2009 and September 2010 as part of the Korean Genome and Epidemiology Study. The participants underwent standard polysomnography, clinical periodontal examination and health‐screening examinations. Periodontitis was defined as clinical attachment level (CAL) ≥ 6 mm and probing pocket depth ≥ 4 mm. OSA was determined using the apnea–hypopnea index (AHI), and an AHI score of ≥ 5 was the cut‐off used to indicate the presence of OSA.

Results

The results showed that 17.5% of the participants had periodontitis, 46.6% had OSA and 60.0% who were diagnosed with periodontitis had OSA. In our study, old age, male gender, current smoking status, mouth breathing during sleep and high AHI were identified as risk factors for periodontitis. OSA was positively associated with periodontitis [odds ratio (OR) = 1.84, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.18–2.87], probing pocket depth (OR = 2.22, 95% CI = 1.30–3.77) and CAL (OR = 1.86, 95% CI = 1.07–3.21) in a dose–response manner. Additionally, OSA was positively associated with periodontitis (OR = 2.51, 95% CI = 1.37–4.62) in subjects ≥ 55 years of age, but not in subjects < 55 years of age.

Conclusion

There is a significant association between OSA and periodontal disease. Further research is needed to clarify the causal relationship between the two conditions.
Acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase activity is controlled by a protein acetyltransferase with unique domain organization in Streptomyces lividans
Authors: Tucker Alex C. , Escalante‐Semerena Jorge C.
Published: November 2012

GCN5‐type N‐acetyltransferases (GNATs) are enzymes that catalyse the transfer of the acetyl group from acetyl‐CoA to a primary amine. GNATs are conserved in all domains of life. Some members of this family of enzymes acetylate the side‐chain of specific lysine residues in proteins of diverse function. In bacteria, GNAT‐catalysed protein acetylation regulates carbon metabolism, RNA metabolism and transcriptional regulation. Metabolic regulation in Streptomyces species is of interest due to the role of these organisms in natural product synthesis. Here we identify SlPatA, a GNAT in Streptomyces lividans with unique domain organization, and a new acetylation target, namely acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase (SlAacS). The latter has homologues in all domains of life. In vitro and in vivo evidence show that SlAacS is a bona fide acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase. SlPatA acetylates SlAacS more efficiently than it does acetyl‐CoA synthetase, an enzyme known to be under acetylation control. SlPatA acetylates SlAacS at the active‐site residue Lys617 and acetylation inactivates SlAacS. Acetylated SlAacS was deacetylated by a sirtuin‐type protein deacetylase. SlAacS acetylation/deacetylation may represent a conserved mechanism for regulation of acetoacetyl‐CoA synthetase activity in all domains of life.
Evaluating postintervention survival of free‐ranging odontocete cetaceans
Authors: Wells Randall S. , Fauquier Deborah A. , Gulland Frances M. D. , Townsend Forrest I. , DiGiovanni Robert A.
Published: November 2012

Until recently, few data were available for evaluating postintervention survival of free‐ranging cetaceans receiving aid from humans through: rescue from stranding, with rehabilitation and release; rescue, rehabilitation and release of debilitated or entangled individuals that had not beached; rescue of entangled animals with immediate release; and rescue, transport, and release of out‐of‐habitat animals. Advances in medical diagnosis, husbandry and therapy have improved survival of rehabilitation cases, and advances in radio‐telemetry have improved postrelease monitoring. In total, 69 cases (1986–2010) were evaluated, involving 10 species of odontocete cetaceans with release data. Findings suggested a success criterion of surviving at least six weeks postrelease is useful in evaluating intervention strategies. No species had better success than others. Stranded beached cetaceans were less successful than free‐swimming rescued animals. Rehabilitated animals were less successful than those released without rehabilitation. Mass stranded dolphins fared better than single stranded animals. Old age, diminished hearing ability, and lack of maternal care were factors in several unsuccessful cases. Success is not clearly related to rehabilitation duration. Retaining healthy individuals from mass strandings until all animals are ready for release may reduce success for some. Transport durations for unsuccessful cases were greater than for successful cases.
Mononuclear phagocyte system in kidney disease and repair
Authors: Alikhan Maliha A , Ricardo Sharon D
Published: November 2012

This manuscript provides a comprehensive overview of the monocyte–macrophage–dendritic cell system in renal disease.
Pet keeping and tobacco exposure influence CD14 methylation in childhood
Authors: Munthe‐Kaas Monica Cheng , Bertelsen Randi J. , Torjussen Tale Mæhre , Hjorthaug Hanne Sagsveen , Undlien Dag E. , Lyle Robert , Gervin Kristina , Granum Berit , Mowinckel Petter , Carlsen Kai Håkon , Carlsen Karin C. Lødrup
Published: November 2012

Background

Several CD14 gene–environment interactions in relation to the development of allergic diseases have been reported, but the underlying biological mechanisms are unclear. We recently showed that CD14 methylation increased during childhood, parallelling a decreased impact of CD14 polymorphisms on soluble CD14 levels. Here, we aim to explore whether environmental stimuli during childhood affects CD14 methylation, thereby providing a biological mechanism through which environment may modulate genetic effect.

Methods

CD14 methylation levels were quantified in 157 children from the prospective Environment and Childhood Asthma birth cohort at ages 2 and 10. Associations between CD14 methylation levels and house dust levels of endotoxin, β(1,3)‐glucans (at 2 yr only), allergens (dog, cat, and house dust mite), pet keeping and tobacco smoke exposure (TSE; questionnaire data) at 2 and 10 yr were explored.

Results

Children in homes without pets had larger increases in CD14 methylation through childhood (2–10 yr) compared with children with pets (2.1% increase (p = 0.003) vs. 0.4% decrease (n.s.), global p = 0.04). At 10 yr of age, lower CD14 methylation values were found in children with pets compared with children without pets at both 2 and 10 yr (5.4% vs. 7.5% [p = 0.02]). A similar trend was detected for TSE; children not exposed show larger increases in CD14 methylation, most pronounced in school‐age girls exposed vs. not exposed to tobacco (5.5% vs. 7.5% methylation, p = 0.037).

Conclusion

Pet keeping and TSE appears to limit increase in CD14 methylation from 2 to 10 yr of age. This may partly explain the diverging CD14 allele associations with allergic diseases detected in different environments.
Body image and personality: Associations between the Big Five Personality Factors, actual‐ideal weight discrepancy, and body appreciation
Authors: SWAMI VIREN , TRAN ULRICH S. , BROOKS LOUISE HOFFMANN , KANAAN LAURA , LUESSE ELLEN‐MARLENE , NADER INGO W. , PIETSCHNIG JAKOB , STIEGER STEFAN , VORACEK MARTIN
Published: November 2012

Studies have suggested associations between personality dimensions and body image constructs, but these have not been conclusively established. In two studies, we examined direct associations between the Big Five dimensions and two body image constructs, actual‐ideal weight discrepancy and body appreciation. In Study 1, 950 women completed measures of both body image constructs and a brief measure of the Big Five dimensions. In Study 2, 339 women completed measures of the body image constructs and a more reliable measure of the Big Five. Both studies showed that Neuroticism was significantly associated with actual‐ideal weight discrepancy (positively) and body appreciation (negatively) once the effects of body mass index and social status had been accounted for. These results are consistent with the suggestion that Neuroticism is a trait of public health significance requiring attention by body image scholars.
Effect of Ga2O3 sputtering power on breakdown voltage of AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors
Authors: Seok Ogyun , Ahn Woojin , Han Min-Koo , Ha Min-Woo
Published: November 2012

RF-sputtered Ga2O3 passivation was used to fabricate AlGaN/GaN high-electron-mobility transistors (HEMTs) with high breakdown voltage (VBR). The authors varied RF-sputtering power from 50 to 200 W to optimize the HEMTs' blocking characteristics, such as VBR and leakage current. When a gate-source voltage (VGS) of −10 V and drain-source voltage (VDS) of 100 V were applied, 10-nm-thick Ga2O3-passivated HEMTs exhibited drain leakage currents of 63 nA/mm, 237 nA/mm, 1.7 μA/mm, and 181 μA/mm when sputtered at 50, 100, 150, and 200 W, respectively, compared with 52 μA/mm for an unpassivated HEMT. Ga2O3-passivated HEMTs with gate-drain distances (LGD) of 20 μm sputtered at 50, 100, 150, and 200 W exhibited VBR values of 1430, 890, 820, and 460 V, respectively, compared to 520 V for the unpassivated HEMT. VBR was decreased when the Ga2O3 passivation layer was deposited at a high sputtering power because of considerable sputtering damage to the AlGaN/GaN heterostructure. Also, VBR of the HEMTs that were Ga2O3-passivated at a low sputtering power increased linearly with LGD because electrons injected into the unintentionally formed vacancies in the Ga2O3 passivation layer effectively extended the depletion region between the gate and drain. The authors achieved a high VBR exceeding 2700 V at a sputtering power of 50 W and LGD of 40 μm.