bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Weichselian history of the Fennoscandian ice sheet in southern Sweden and the southwestern Baltic Basin
Authors: Anjar Johanna , Adrielsson Lena , Larsen Nicolaj Krog , Möller Per , Barth Kilian
Published: October 2013

This study presents the Weichselian stratigraphy on Kriegers Flak in the southwestern Baltic Sea, and correlates it to new sections in southernmost Sweden and to previously published stratigraphic sequences from SW Skåne. A total of four Weichselian advances are identified based on our correlations. The oldest till, observed only on Kriegers Flak, is dated to the Early or Middle Weichselian and tentatively correlated to the Ristinge advance, previously identified in Denmark. It is overlain by three interstadial sediment units, starting with brackish clay and followed by terrestrial and lacustrine deposits, which have been dated to 42–36 ka, and finally by glaciolacustrine clay dated to 28.5–26 ka. After 30 ka, the Fennoscandian ice sheet advanced through the Baltic Basin and into the coastal areas of southernmost Sweden where the Allarp Till was deposited, followed by a deglaciation sequence. The uppermost tills, the Dalby Till and the Lund till, were deposited during the LGM advance and the subsequent re‐advances through the Baltic Basin. Based on the new evidence it has been possible to identify and date a Middle and Late Weichselian till succession in southern Sweden and provide a strong correlation to the established glacial stratigraphies in Sweden and Denmark.
Impact of physical activity and diet on lipoprotein particle concentrations in severely obese women participating in a 1‐year lifestyle intervention
Authors: Aadland E. , Andersen J. R. , Anderssen S. A. , Kvalheim O. M.
Published: October 2013

What is already known about this subject

Physical activity and high aerobic fitness protects against cardiovascular disease and early death, besides having a very modest impact on lipoprotein‐cholesterol in obese subjects.

Physical activity has been shown to favourably alter lipoprotein particle concentrations and apolipoprotein B with minimal weight loss in overweight to moderately obese subjects.

What this study adds

We studied the impact of physical activity on lipoprotein subclass particle concentrations in women with severe obesity.

Increased physical activity duration was associated with favourable changes, whereas increased PA intensity was associated with adverse changes in some lipoprotein particle subclasses in severely obese women.

Severely obese women that manage to increase their physical activity level can improve their lipoprotein profile, whether or not they lose fat mass

Physical activity (PA) and high aerobic fitness protects against cardiovascular disease and early death possibly among others because of an anti‐atherogenic impact on lipoprotein particle concentrations. The objective of this study was to determine the impact of PA and diet on lipoprotein particle concentrations. Thirty‐one severely obese women (age 43.6 ± 10.2 years; body mass index 43.0 ± 6.3 kg m−2) participated in a 1‐year lifestyle intervention with repeated measurements of lipoprotein particle subclass concentrations and size of very low density lipoprotein (VLDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and high density lipoprotein (HDL), as well as fat mass, PA and diet. Multiple regression was used to determine associations with change (Δ) in two principal components (PCs) describing lipoprotein distributions: ΔPC 1 LIPO (dominated by VLDL and LDL) and ΔPC 2 LIPO (dominated by large HDL and mean HDL particle size). ΔPA duration was the only variable that was significantly related to ΔPC 1 LIPO (partial r = −0.40, P = 0.008), while ΔPA intensity was the only variable that was significantly related to ΔPC 2 LIPO (partial r = −0.43, P = 0.003) in adjusted models. Increased PA duration was associated with favourable changes, whereas increased PA intensity was associated with adverse changes in some lipoprotein particle subclasses in severely obese women.
A prospective case controlled study of the short‐term outcome following hemicolectomy for benign compared with malignant colonic polyps
Authors: Brigic A. , Cahill R. A. , Bassett P. , Clark S. K. , Kennedy R. H.
Published: October 2013

Aim

The number of patients diagnosed with advanced colonic polyps has increased due to screening. The outcome of hemicolectomy for benign lesions is poorly documented. We present a case‐matched study comparing the results of hemicolectomy for benign and malignant polyps performed in two institutions.

Methods

Data for consecutive patients undergoing surgery for benign colonic polyps (BCPs) were prospectively collected in two hospitals. Each patient was matched for age, sex, ASA grade, site and type of resection (laparoscopic, open and converted) with two controls who underwent surgery for colon cancer (CC). The length of stay (LOS) and 30‐day outcome were analysed adjusting for potential confounders. Multilevel linear and logistic regression analyses were performed.

Results

Forty‐six patients having hemicolectomy for BCP were matched with 81 patients with CC. The median size of BCP was 4 cm [interquartile range (IQR) 2.5–5.4 cm]. Patients with a BCP had a marginally longer LOS [median 5.5 (IQR 4–8) days and 5 (IQR 3–7) days (P = 0.04)]. Twenty‐one (46%) of 46 patients with BCP had a postoperative complication compared with 25 (31%) of 81 CC patients (P = 0.12, OR = 2.11, 95% CI 0.82–5.41). Four (9%) of 46 patients with BCP underwent re‐operation and a further three (7%) were readmitted compared with one (1%) and two (2%) of 81 patients with CC (P = 0.07 and 0.28). There was no mortality in either group.

Conclusion

Complications following hemicolectomy for BCP or CC are not significantly different. The results of the study provide further impetus to develop local full thickness colonic excision for benign colonic lesions as an alternative to major surgery.
From the matrix to roadsides and beyond: the role of isolated paddock trees as dispersal points for invasion
Authors: Coulson Claire , Spooner Peter G. , Lunt Ian D. , Watson Simon J.
Published: October 2013

Aim

Vertebrate seed dispersers play an important role in determining the spatial distributions of many plants, yet few studies have examined patterns of dispersal in fragmented rural landscapes. This study investigated the factors that influence the occurrence and density of roadside populations of two vertebrate‐dispersed trees (Brachychiton populneus and Schinus molle) in roadside environments.

Location

Temperate woodland in southern NSW, Australia.

Methods

Generalized linear models (GLMs) were used to investigate the factors that influence the occurrence and density of the study species in roadsides. Akaike's information criterion (AIC) was used to determine the relative importance of biophysical, disturbance and landscape variables in predictive models for the two species.

Results

We identified two significant determinants of the occurrence of B. populneus and S. molle populations in roadsides: (1) the presence of large ‘perch’ trees of non‐target species (predominately Eucalyptus spp.) in roadsides and (2) distance to nearest paddock tree of each target species. These factors were important for both species, but combined to form a stronger predictive model for S. molle than for B. populneus. Factors influencing population density were less clear, although populations of both species tended to be denser on narrow roads.

Main conclusions

Large perch trees were an important predictor of the presence of roadside populations of both species. These results provide criteria to enable roadside managers to either promote native B. populneus, or prevent incursions of exotic S. molle, as desired. Examination of the dispersal pathways for B. populneus and S. molle has revealed that in fragmented agricultural landscapes, isolated paddock trees are able to disperse to nearby roadside environments via frugivore activity. As a result, road networks may provide ‘conduits’ for the movement and potential invasion of vertebrate‐dispersed plant species.
Incretins, amylin and other gut‐brain axis hormones in children with coeliac disease
Authors: Papastamataki Maria , Papassotiriou Ioannis , Bartzeliotou Anastasia , Vazeou Andriani , Roma Eleftheria , Chrousos George P. , Kanaka‐Gantenbein Christina
Published: October 2013

Background

Previous research indicated that coeliac disease (CD) is associated with type 1 diabetes mellitus (T1DM). However, the gut‐brain axis peptide hormones secretion has not been evaluated so far in patients with CD prior to treatment initiation or under treatment, irrespective of patients having concomitant T1DM or not. The aim of the study was therefore to evaluate these gut hormones at the preprandial levels of patients with CD before and under treatment.

Methods

Of forty‐seven CD children, 12 untreated (UCD), 22 treated with gluten‐free diet (TCD) and 13 treated CD with coexisting T1DM (DCD), and 18 healthy controls (HC) were enrolled. Preprandial glucagon‐like‐peptide‐1 (GLP‐1), glucose‐dependent‐insulinotropic‐polypeptide (GIP), active amylin, acylated ghrelin (AG), leptin, pancreatic polypeptide (PP) and peptide‐tyrosine‐tyrosine (PYY) were determined with hormone‐map‐array technology.

Results

We found in patients with CD compared with HC that the concentration of (i) GLP‐1 was reduced remarkably in all patients with CD (P = 0·008), (ii) GIP was lower in patients with UCD (P = 0·008), (iii) amylin was remarkably reduced (P < 0·01) in all patients with CD, (iv) AG was significantly decreased in patients with DCD (P < 0·01), while (v) leptin, PP and PYY were not significantly different. GIP, GLP‐1 and amylin levels correlated positively with insulin concentrations (P < 0·001, P = 0·004 and P < 0·01, respectively) in all patients. Amylin and GIP levels were strongly associated with triglycerides concentrations (P < 0·001, for both peptides) in children with CD.

Conclusions

Our study revealed a different secretion pattern of gut‐brain axis hormones in children with CD compared with HC. The alterations in the axis were more pronounced in children with both CD and T1DM.
Selective segregation in intraspecific competition between juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta)
Authors: Berg Ole K. , Bremset Gunnbjørn , Puffer Michael , Hanssen Kjersti
Published: October 2013

Interactive segregation has been suggested as the ruling competition mechanism determining niche and niche segregation between juvenile Atlantic salmon (Salmo salar) and brown trout (Salmo trutta). Results from allopatry–sympatry observations of habitat use in both nature and in experiments were contrary to predictions derived from the interactive segregation hypothesis. Habitat use parameters under natural conditions such as distance to shore for Atlantic salmon parr were nearly identical in allopatric (mean ± SD; 3.2 ± 1.4 m) and sympatric (3.3 ± 1.4 m) situations. Occupied water depths largely reflected available water, but water depths <15 cm were avoided by salmon parr. Under experimental conditions, habitat use of allopatric salmon was density independent and salmon size had only minor effects, with smaller fish being more likely to occur in the shallow. Habitat use of salmon in sympatry with trout did not differ from allopatric salmon habitat use, and only salmon size had minor effects on depth choice – occurrence of trout or fish density had no effect. Allopatric trout was in general more frequent in the shallow habitat than salmon. Habitat use of sympatric trout was affected by the occurrence of salmon and trout size, resulting in a higher use of the shallow habitats for small trout. To conclude, selective segregation has a dominant role in salmon habitat use (not affected by trout occurrence), whereas a mixed situation occurs in trout habitat use with elements of interactive segregation when competing with Atlantic salmon (affected by salmon occurrence).
Developmental enamel defects in children born preterm: a systematic review
Authors: Jacobsen Pernille E. , Haubek Dorte , Henriksen Tine B. , Østergaard John R. , Poulsen Sven
Published: October 2013

The purpose of this review was to evaluate the association between developmental enamel defects and children born preterm. An identical search was performed in PubMed and Embase and was limited to human studies and studies written in English, German, Danish, Swedish, or Norwegian. Reviews, case studies, and case series were excluded. A total of 283 articles were identified. Twenty‐three publications, of which 19 were follow‐up studies, two were case–control studies, and two were cross‐sectional surveys, were enrolled in the review. The majority of the studies (n = 17) dealt with enamel hypoplasia of the primary teeth. Thirteen studies reported an association between preterm birth and enamel hypoplasia, and, in addition, few studies reported an increased risk of enamel opacities in the primary teeth, in children with a birth weight <1500 g. Seven studies dealt with enamel disturbances of the permanent teeth, four of which suggested an increased risk of enamel opacities. This systematic review suggests an increased risk of enamel hypoplasia in primary teeth of children born preterm and enamel opacities in very‐low birth‐weight children. A larger number of well‐designed studies are, however, needed in order to increase the validity of the studies.
Alloparental Care in the African Striped Mouse Rhabdomys pumilio is Age‐Dependent and Influences the Development of Paternal Care
Authors: Rymer Tasmin L. , Pillay Neville
Published: October 2013

Alloparents contribute to offspring care and alleviate the workload of breeders. The help provided varies with the age and/or experience of helpers, but it is not known whether breeders vary their investment based on the age of helpers by adjusting the parental care they provide. We studied the alloparental care provided by juvenile and subadult philopatric daughters in biparental African striped mice Rhabdomys pumilio with and without the mother as a measure of alleviation of maternal workload. We showed in a previous study that alleviation of maternal workload directly affects the development of paternal care in their sons, so we studied the expression of paternal care in young males raised by helpers as a proxy of the long‐term consequences of helping. Both juvenile and subadult daughters provided care but the level of alloparental care and concomitant alleviation of maternal care was age‐dependent. In the absence of the mother, juvenile daughters provided just 6% of care compared with 24% of subadult daughters. Sons raised by mothers and juvenile helpers displayed the expected exaggerated levels of care also observed when mothers raise litters on their own. While our results show the direct value of subadult daughters, juvenile daughters could contribute indirectly (e.g. nest maintenance) to alleviating maternal workload. The development of paternal care indicates that mothers do distinguish between the care provided by different aged helpers. Overall, the type of alloparental care provided by female striped mice is expected to change over their lifetimes, resulting in increased inclusive fitness through caring for siblings and acquisition of parenting skills.
The balance between pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory cytokines is crucial in human allergic contact dermatitis pathogenesis: the role of IL‐1 family members
Authors: Mattii Martina , Ayala Fabio , Balato Nicola , Filotico Raffaele , Lembo Serena , Schiattarella Maria , Patruno Cataldo , Marone Gianni , Balato Anna
Published: October 2013

The interleukin (IL)‐1 family includes 11 members that are important in inflammatory processes. It includes various agonists and two antagonists, IL‐1Ra and IL‐36Ra. Our aim was to investigate whether the IL‐1 family is involved in allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The expression of IL‐1 family members was evaluated by PCR and immunohistochemistry in the positive patch test reaction site (involved skin) and in the uninvolved skin of ACD patients. We also examined these cytokines in an ex vivo model of ACD. The antagonistic activity of IL‐36Ra was evaluated by injecting recombinant IL‐36Ra in uninvolved skin biopsies of ACD patients. IL‐1Ra and IL‐36Ra expression was quantified in mononuclear cells of nickel‐sensitized patients challenged in vitro with nickel. IL‐33 involvement in ACD was investigated by intra‐dermal injection of anti‐IL‐33 in the uninvolved skin of patients ex vivo. Results showed that IL‐1β, IL‐1Ra, IL‐36α, IL‐36β, IL‐36γ and IL‐33 expression, but not IL‐36Ra expression, was enhanced in ACD‐involved skin. Immunohistochemical analysis and ex vivo skin cultures confirmed these results. Injection of anti‐IL‐33 in ACD‐uninvolved skin inhibited IL‐8 expression, whereas IL‐36Ra inhibited IL‐36α, IL‐36β, IL‐36γ and IL‐8 expression. Nickel induced IL‐1Ra expression in lymphocytes of nickel‐sensitized patients. Hence, various IL‐1 agonists and antagonists may be involved in ACD pathogenesis.
Monitoring gene expression in a single Xenopus oocyte using multiple cytoplasmic collections and quantitative RT‐PCR
Authors: Tokmakov Alexander A. , Hashimoto Takanori , Hasegawa Yushi , Iguchi Sho , Iwasaki Tetsushi , Fukami Yasuo
Published: October 2013

Oocytes and eggs of the African clawed frog, Xenopus laevis, are commonly used in gene expression studies. However, monitoring transcript levels in the individual living oocytes remains challenging. To address this challenge, we used a technique based on multiple repeated collections of nanoliter volumes of cytoplasmic material from a single oocyte. Transcript quantification was performed by quantitative RT‐PCR. The technique allowed monitoring of heterologous gene expression in a single oocyte without affecting its viability. We also used this approach to profile the expression of endogenous genes in living Xenopus oocytes. Although frog oocytes are traditionally viewed as a homogenous cell population, a significant degree of gene expression variation was observed among the individual oocytes. A lognormal distribution of transcript levels was revealed in the oocyte population. Finally, using this technique, we observed a dramatic decrease in the content of various cytoplasmic mRNAs in aging unfertilized eggs but not in oocytes, suggesting a link between mRNA degradation and egg apoptosis.
Up‐regulation of survivin by AKT and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α contributes to cisplatin resistance in gastric cancer
Authors: Sun Xue‐Pu , Dong Xuesong , Lin Lele , Jiang Xian , Wei Zheng , Zhai Bo , Sun Bo , Zhang Qiang , Wang Xiaolong , Jiang Hongchi , Krissansen Geoffrey W. , Qiao Haiquan , Sun Xueying
Published: October 2013

This study investigated the contribution of survivin and its upstream regulators, AKT and hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF–1α), to the resistance of gastric cancer cells to cisplatin (CDDP). We found that over‐expression of survivin increased the resistance of SGC7901 and BGC823 gastric cancer cells to CDDP. Its over‐expression abrogated CDDP‐induced inhibition of cell proliferation and CDDP‐induced cell apoptosis. In contrast, down‐regulation of survivin expression using small hairpin RNA (shRNA) vectors and the small‐molecule inhibitor YM155, or inhibition of survivin function using a recombinant cell‐permeable dominant‐negative survivin protein (dNSur9), promoted CDDP‐induced apoptosis. CDDP‐resistant sub‐lines generated from the parental SGC7901 and BGC823 cells by exposure to increasing concentrations of CDDP expressed higher levels of HIF–1α and survivin in response to hypoxia, and higher levels of phosphorylated AKT (pAKT). Specific inhibition of AKT reduced the expression of HIF–1α and survivin, whereas specific inhibition or depletion of HIF–1α reduced survivin expression but had no effect on the expression of phosphorylated AKT. The expression levels of survivin affected the therapeutic efficacy of CDDP in treating gastric tumors in mice. Specific inhibition of survivin, AKT and HIF–1α enhanced the sensitivity of CDDP‐resistant cells to CDDP. Specific inhibition of survivin, AKT and HIF‐1α synergized with CDDP to suppress the growth of gastric tumors that had been engineered to overexpress survivin. In summary, the results provide evidence that up‐regulation of survivin by AKT and HIF–1α contributes to CDDP resistance, indicating that inhibition of these pathways may be a potential strategy for overcoming CDDP resistance in the treatment of gastric cancer.
Finding common ground in weed management: peri‐urban farming, environmental and lifestyle values and practices in southeast Queensland, Australia
Authors: Davis Deborah , Carter Jennifer
Published: October 2013

Peri‐urban landscapes are located nearby to a major metropolis and are undergoing rapid change from in‐migration and the loss of agricultural land, resulting in a mix of rural, urban, and natural systems. These changing landscapes are fashioned from the discursive relationship between nature and culture, but at times are represented as predominately either natural or cultural areas, perpetuating a nature culture dualism. The values of various resident sociocultural groups are thought to mirror the separation of nature and culture, although other literature argues these groups are much more complex and interwoven in their values and practices. This paper explores a case study of landholders involved in weed management in southeast Queensland and supports the case that the groups are much more aligned in values and practice than is often represented in discourse, or as thought of by institutional practitioners. We argue that some institutions have employed a ‘separatist gaze’, dividing and stereotyping these actors, and aligning their services to one or other group through the compartmentalisation of their institutional functions. We argue that new forms of rural governance can bridge the common ground of these groups if they pay attention to the points of intersection between actors within the peri‐urban landscape.
Translating the ‘adaptation to climate change’ paradigm: the politics of a travelling idea in Africa
Authors: Weisser Florian , Bollig Michael , Doevenspeck Martin , Müller‐Mahn Detlef
Published: October 2013

In the past few years, adaptation to climate change has emerged as a dominant new theme in development politics, to an extent that it can almost be considered as a new development paradigm. Yet, this new paradigm and its effects are not unproblematic, as the empirical research in three East African countries presented in this article indicates. The article argues that the current transformation of environmental governance reflects not only climate change as such, but also – and perhaps even more so – the discourse of a changing climate and its effect on development politics. The empirical evidence shows that African farmers, politicians and government officials often respond to the new ‘adaptation paradigm’ more readily than to directly felt phenomena caused by a changing climate. We therefore argue that the ontology of the concept of adaptation to climate change needs to be readjusted. Epistemologically, our concern is to trace the discourse of adaptation to climate change across multiple sites, i.e. how it ‘travels’ between global epistemic communities and adaptation projects in developing countries. Drawing on actor‐network theory and its concept of translation, we provide an alternative view of adaptation to climate change by highlighting the contested and multi‐sited narratives and practices that bring adaptation into being.
Histone methylation mediates plasticity of human FOXP3+ regulatory T cells by modulating signature gene expressions
Authors: He Haiqi , Ni Bing , Tian Yi , Tian Zhiqiang , Chen Yanke , Liu Zhengwen , Yang Xiaomei , Lv Yi , Zhang Yong
Published: October 2013

CD4+ FOXP3+ regulatory T (Treg) cells constitute a heterogeneous and plastic T‐cell lineage that plays a pivotal role in maintaining immune homeostasis and immune tolerance. However, the fate of human Treg cells after loss of FOXP3 expression and the epigenetic mechanisms contributing to such a phenotype switch remain to be fully elucidated. In the current study, we demonstrate that human CD4+ CD25high CD127low/− Treg cells convert to two subpopulations with distinctive FOXP3+ and FOXP3− phenotypes following in vitro culture with anti‐CD3/CD28 and interleukin‐2. Digital gene expression analysis showed that upon in vitro expansion, human Treg cells down‐regulated Treg cell signature genes, such as FOXP3, CTLA4, ICOS, IKZF2 and LRRC32, but up‐regulated a set of T helper lineage‐associated genes, especially T helper type 2 (Th2)‐associated, such as GATA3, GFI1 and IL13. Subsequent chromatin immunoprecipitation‐sequencing of these subpopulations yielded genome‐wide maps of their H3K4me3 and H3K27me3 profiles. Surprisingly, reprogramming of Treg cells was associated with differential histone modifications, as evidenced by decreased abundance of permissive H3K4me3 within the down‐regulated Treg cell signature genes, such as FOXP3, CTLA4 and LRRC32 loci, and increased abundance of H3K4me3 within the Th2‐associated genes, such as IL4 and IL5; however, the H3K27me3 modification profile was not significantly different between the two subpopulations. In conclusion, this study revealed that loss of FOXP3 expression from human Treg cells during in vitro expansion can induce reprogramming to a T helper cell phenotype with a gene expression signature dominated by Th2 lineage‐associated genes, and that this cell type conversion may be mediated by histone methylation events.
‘How do we know if this is the best?’ Mental health‐care professionals' views on national guidelines for psychosocial interventions
Authors: Sandström Boel , Willman Ania , Svensson Bengt , Borglin Gunilla
Published: October 2013

National guidelines are released regularly, and professionals are expected to adopt and implement them. However, studies dealing with mental health‐care professionals' views about guidelines are sparse. The aim of the present study was to highlight mental health‐care staff's views on the Swedish national guidelines for ‘psychosocial interventions for schizophrenia or schizophrenia‐type symptoms’ and their implementation. The study took place in the southeast parts of Sweden, and data were collected through five group interviews consisting of 16 professionals working either in the county council or in the municipalities. The transcribed text was analysed by content analysis, revealing two categories. The first category ‘a challenge to the practice of care as known’ reflected that the release of guidelines could be perceived as a challenge to prevailing care and culture. The second category ‘anticipating change to come from above’ mirrored views on how staff expected the implementation process to flow from top to bottom. To facilitate working in accordance with guidelines, we suggest that future guidelines should be accompanied by an implementation plan, where the educational needs of frontline staff are taken into account. There is also a need for policy makers and managers to assume responsibility in supporting the implementation of evidence‐based practice.
Challenges and successes in the propagation of the Shoebill Balaeniceps rex: with detailed observations from Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, Florida
Authors: Tomita J. A. , Killmar L. E. , Ball R. , Rottman L. A. , Kowitz M.
Published: October 2013

The Shoebill Balaeniceps rex is categorized as Vulnerable on the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List and past estimates of the wild population range from 5000 to fewer than 10 000 birds. The Shoebill Single Species Action Plan is currently in review and may better define the number of Shoebills remaining in the wild. The Shoebill population in captivity consists of only 40 [21.18.1 (♂.♀.?)] birds at 16 wildlife institutions worldwide. Successful propagation of species with high conservation value is dependent upon understanding the natural history and conservation needs of the taxon, providing appropriate husbandry, and optimizing health and nutrition. To date, only three Shoebill chicks are known to have been hatched in captivity. The first two hatched in July 2008 at Pairi Daiza (formerly Parc Paradisio) in Belgium. These chicks were hand reared and are still surviving at the time of writing. On 26 December 2009, Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, FL, USA, became the first wildlife institution in North America to hatch a Shoebill chick and just the second institution worldwide. This chick was parent reared with careful monitoring by staff. The chronologies of this hatching as well as other significant experiences are detailed in this article.
Perceived Professional Gains of Master's Level Students Following a Person‐of‐the‐Therapist Training Program: A Retrospective Content Analysis
Authors: Niño Alba , Kissil Karni , Apolinar Claudio Florina L.
Published: October 2013

The Person‐of‐the‐Therapist Training (POTT) is a program designed to facilitate clinicians' ability to consciously and purposefully use themselves at the moment of contact with their clients in order to connect, assess, and intervene effectively. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 54 master's‐level students who were enrolled in an accredited marriage and family therapy program in the United States and examined their perceived professional gains following a 9‐month POTT course. Content analysis of trainees' reflections which they wrote at the end of the training revealed 6 primary themes: (a) increased awareness, (b) emotions, (c) improved clinical work, (d) humanity and woundedness, (e) meta‐awareness, and (f) factors that contributed to the learning process. Findings suggest that key outcomes of this training curriculum are congruent with its stated goals. Clinical and training recommendations are additionally provided.

Video Abstract
Signal‐to‐noise ratio estimation on SEM images using cubic spline interpolation with Savitzky–Golay smoothing
Authors: SIM K.S. , KIANI M.A. , NIA M.E. , TSO C.P.
Published: October 2013

A new technique based on cubic spline interpolation with Savitzky–Golay noise reduction filtering is designed to estimate signal‐to‐noise ratio of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) images. This approach is found to present better result when compared with two existing techniques: nearest neighbourhood and first‐order interpolation. When applied to evaluate the quality of SEM images, noise can be eliminated efficiently with optimal choice of scan rate from real‐time SEM images, without generating corruption or increasing scanning time.
Identification of two novel Shank3 transcripts in the developing mouse neocortex
Authors: Waga Chikako , Asano Hirotsugu , Sanagi Tomomi , Suzuki Eri , Nakamura Yasuko , Tsuchiya Akiko , Itoh Masayuki , Goto Yu‐ichi , Kohsaka Shinichi , Uchino Shigeo
Published: October 2013

SHANK3 is a synaptic scaffolding protein enriched in the post‐synaptic density of excitatory synapses. Since several SHANK3 mutations have been identified in a particular phenotypic group of patients with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), SHANK3 is strongly suspected of being involved in the pathogenesis and neuropathology of ASD. Several SHANK3 isoforms are known to be produced in the developing brain, but they have not been fully investigated. Here, we identified two different amino‐terminus truncated Shank3 transcripts. One transcript, designated as Shank3c‐3, produces an isoform that contains the entire carboxyl‐terminus, but the other transcript, designated as Shank3c‐4, produces a carboxyl‐terminus truncated isoform. During development, expression of the novel Shank3 transcripts increased after birth, transiently decreased at P14 and then gradually increased again thereafter. We also determined that methyl CpG‐binding protein 2 (MeCP2) is involved in regulating expression of the novel Shank3 transcripts. MeCP2 is a transcriptional regulator that has been identified as the causative molecule of Rett syndrome, a neurodevelopmental disorder that includes autistic behavior. We demonstrated a difference between the expression of the novel Shank3 transcripts in wild‐type mice and Mecp2‐deficient mice. These findings suggest that the SHANK3 isoforms may be implicated in the synaptic abnormality in Rett syndrome.

image

SHANK3 is a synaptic scaffolding protein and is suspected of being implicated in the pathogenesis and neuropathology of ASD. We here identified two different amino‐terminus truncated Shank3 transcripts, Shank3c‐3 and Shank3c‐4, expressed from the intron 10 of the Shank3 gene, and also suggested the epigenetic regulation of their expression via methyl CpG‐binding protein 2 (MeCP2) that has been identified as the causative molecule of Rett syndrome.
Actin dynamics in growth cone motility and navigation
Authors: Gomez Timothy M. , Letourneau Paul C.
Published: October 2013

Motile growth cones lead growing axons through developing tissues to synaptic targets. These behaviors depend on the organization and dynamics of actin filaments that fill the growth cone leading margin [peripheral (P‐) domain]. Actin filament organization in growth cones is regulated by actin‐binding proteins that control all aspects of filament assembly, turnover, interactions with other filaments and cytoplasmic components, and participation in producing mechanical forces. Actin filament polymerization drives protrusion of sensory filopodia and lamellipodia, and actin filament connections to the plasma membrane link the filament network to adhesive contacts of filopodia and lamellipodia with other surfaces. These contacts stabilize protrusions and transduce mechanical forces generated by actomyosin activity into traction that pulls an elongating axon along the path toward its target. Adhesive ligands and extrinsic guidance cues bind growth cone receptors and trigger signaling activities involving Rho GTPases, kinases, phosphatases, cyclic nucleotides, and [Ca++] fluxes. These signals regulate actin‐binding proteins to locally modulate actin polymerization, interactions, and force transduction to steer the growth cone leading margin toward the sources of attractive cues and away from repellent guidance cues.

image

Actin filament organization in motile growth cone leading margin (peripheral (P‐) domain) is regulated by actin‐binding proteins that control all aspects of filament assembly, turnover, interactions with other filaments or cytoplasmic components, and produce mechanical forces. This Review outlines key aspects of growth cone actin dynamics, as well as the roles of adhesion‐mediating proteins, like integrins, which stabilize actin‐based protrusions and transduce mechanical forces generated by actomyosin activity into traction that pulls an elongating axon along the path toward its target.
Platelet activating factor induces transient blood‐brain barrier opening to facilitate edaravone penetration into the brain
Authors: Fang Weirong , Zhang Rui , Sha Lan , Lv Peng , Shang Erxin , Han Dan , Wei Jie , Geng Xiaohan , Yang Qichuan , Li Yunman
Published: October 2013

The blood–brain barrier (BBB) greatly limits the efficacy of many neuroprotective drugs' delivery to the brain, so improving drug penetration through the BBB has been an important focus of research. Here we report that platelet activating factor (PAF) transiently opened BBB and facilitated neuroprotectant edaravone penetration into the brain. Intravenous infusion with PAF induced a transient BBB opening in rats, reflected by increased Evans blue leakage and mild edema formation, which ceased within 6 h. Furthermore, rat regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) declined acutely during PAF infusion, but recovered slowly. More importantly, this transient BBB opening significantly increased the penetration of edaravone into the brain, evidenced by increased edaravone concentrations in tissue interstitial fluid collected by microdialysis and analyzed by Ultra‐performance liquid chromatograph combined with a hybrid quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometer (UPLC‐MS/MS). Similarly, incubation of rat brain microvessel endothelial cells monolayer with 1 μM PAF for 1 h significantly increased monolayer permeability to 125I‐albumin, which recovered 1 h after PAF elimination. However, PAF incubation with rat brain microvessel endothelial cells for 1 h did not cause detectable cytotoxicity, and did not regulate intercellular adhesion molecule‐1, matrix‐metalloproteinase‐9 and P‐glycoprotein expression. In conclusion, PAF could induce transient and reversible BBB opening through abrupt rCBF decline, which significantly improved edaravone penetration into the brain.

image

Platelet activating factor (PAF) transiently induces BBB dysfunction and increases BBB permeability, which may be due to vessel contraction and a temporary decline of regional cerebral blood flow (rCBF) triggered by PAF. More importantly, the PAF induced transient BBB opening facilitates neuroprotectant edaravone penetration into brain. The results of this study may provide a new approach to improve drug delivery into the brain.
Neuromedin U Partly Mimics Thyroid‐Stimulating Hormone and Triggers Wnt/β‐Catenin Signalling in the Photoperiodic Response of F344 Rats
Authors: Helfer G. , Ross A. W. , Morgan P. J.
Published: October 2013

In seasonal animals, photoperiod exerts profound effects on physiology, such as growth, energy balance and reproduction, via changes in the neuroendocrine axes. A key element of the photoperiodic response is the thyroid hormone level in the hypothalamus, which is controlled via retrograde transport of thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) from the pars tuberalis of the pituitary. TSH regulates type II deiodinase (Dio2) expression, which transforms inactive thyroid hormone to its active form, via TSH receptors expressed in the ependymal cells of the hypothalamus. In the present study, we hypothesised that a second peptide hormone, neuromedin U (NMU), may play a role in the photoperiodic response alongside TSH because the gene for NMU is also expressed in a strongly photoperiod‐dependent manner in the pars tuberalis and its receptor NMU2 is expressed in the ependymal layer of the third ventricle in photoperiod‐sensitive F344 rats. Consistent with other studies conducted in nonseasonal mammals, we found that acute i.c.v. injections of NMU into the hypothalamus negatively regulated food intake and body weight and increased core body temperature in F344 rats. At the same time, NMU increased Dio2 mRNA expression in the ependymal region of the hypothalamus similar to the effects of TSH. These data suggest that NMU may affect acute and photoperiodically controlled energy balance through distinct pathways. We also showed that TSH inhibits the expression of type III deiodinase (Dio3) in F344 rats, a response not mimicked by NMU. Furthermore, NMU also increased the expression of genes from the Wnt/β‐catenin pathway within the ependymal layer of the third ventricle. This effect was not influenced by TSH. These data indicate that, although NMU acts with some similarities to TSH, it also has completely distinct signalling functions that do not overlap. In summary, the present study of NMU signalling reveals the potential for a new player in the control of seasonal biology.
Adopting a patient‐centred approach: an investigation into the introduction of bedside handover to three rural hospitals
Authors: Bradley Stacey , Mott Sarah
Published: October 2013

Aims and objectives

To study empirically the process and outcomes of the implementation of nurse‐to‐nurse bedside handover in three rural South Australian hospitals.

Background

While the importance of handover is identified in literature, little is written about its implementation. It is, however, suggested that bedside handover is a more patient‐focussed approach than others available.

Design

A mixed‐method, pretest post‐test evaluative approach involving quasi‐experimental and ethnographic elements was used. The self‐selected sample comprised nine inpatients (five women, four men) and forty‐eight self‐selected enrolled/registered nursing staff (forty‐seven women, one man) from three acute hospital wards in rural South Australia. Lewin's (Human Relations, 1, 1947a, 2; Readings in Social Psychology. Henry Holt, New York, 1947b, 197) 3‐stage model of change provided a theoretical basis and structure for the study.

Methods

Patient perceptions were obtained using ethnographic interviewing. Staff perceptions of patient involvement were obtained through questions rated on a 7‐point Likert scale and ethnographic interviewing.

Results

Results indicated that patients preferred the bedside handover method over the traditional closed‐door office handover approach. The key differences (as defined by patients) are that the bedside handover process incorporates social aspects for the patient, patients have the opportunity to know who is looking after them and patients are included in discussion related to their care. Furthermore, results suggest that staff believed the level of patient involvement in their care had increased under the bedside handover process.

Conclusions

The results demonstrate that both patients and staff perceive patients to be more involved in their care under the bedside handover approach. The literature notes a recent move towards adopting patient‐centred care approaches in clinical settings and the many benefits associated with this style of care. This study has proven that implementing bedside handover has resulted in a patient‐centred approach.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study generates further knowledge about rural nursing and contributes insight into the importance of handover implementation method – areas that are not widely documented in existing literature.
Nine‐Month Angiographic and Intravascular Ultrasound Outcomes After Resolute Zotarolimus‐Eluting Stent Implantation for the Treatment of In‐Stent Restenosis
Authors: LEE SEUNG‐YUL , KIM BYEONG‐KEUK , KIM JUNG‐SUN , HONG MYEONG‐KI , CHO DEOK‐KYU , YOON JUNGHAN , JEON DONG WOON , LEE NAM‐HO , KWON HYUCK MOON , JANG YANGSOO
Published: October 2013

Objectives

We aimed to evaluate the mid‐term outcomes of resolute zotarolimus‐eluting stent (R‐ZES) implantation for in‐stent restenosis (ISR).

Background

There has been a paucity of data regarding the effects of new‐generation drug‐eluting stent to treat ISR.

Methods

From 2009 to 2010, a total of 98 patients with 98 ISR lesions were prospectively enrolled after R‐ZES implantation for the treatment of ISR. Among 98 patients, 73 patients underwent follow‐up angiography at 9 months. Serial intravascular ultrasound (IVUS) at both postprocedure and 9 months was evaluated in 55 patients. The overlapped segment of R‐ZES was defined as the portion of R‐ZES superimposed on previous stent.

Results

Late loss and binary restenosis rate were 0.3 ± 0.5 mm and 5.5% at 9 months. On IVUS, the percentage of neointimal volume and maximum percentage of neointimal area were 3.9 ± 6.3% and 17.3 ± 15.5%, respectively. There was no significant change of vessel volume index between postprocedure and 9 months (16.9 ± 4.7 mm3/mm vs. 17.1 ± 4.6 mm3/mm, P = 0.251). Late‐acquired incomplete stent apposition was observed in 5 (5/55, 9.1%) cases. Compared with nonoverlapped segments of R‐ZES, the overlapped did not show larger neointimal volume index (0.3 ± 0.5 mm3/mm vs. 0.2 ± 0.3 mm3/mm, P = 0.187) on 9‐month IVUS. During follow‐up (median, 353 days), repeat target‐lesion revascularization was performed in four cases, but there were no death or stent thrombosis.

Conclusions

This study suggested that R‐ZES implantation for the treatment of ISR was effective up to 9 months and showed favorable vascular responses on serial IVUS assessment.
Low‐Dose Heparin for Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: LEE MICHAEL S. , OYAMA JARED , IQBAL ZAHID , TARANTINI GIUSEPPE
Published: October 2013

Objectives

We evaluated the safety and efficacy of low‐dose heparin (40 IU/kg) for elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Current guidelines recommend a 70–100 IU/kg bolus of heparin for elective PCI, but this dose may be associated with increased bleeding risk. Low‐dose heparin may have an advantage in this regard, but has not been well studied.

Methods

From January 2008 to October 2012, 300 patients underwent elective transfemoral PCI and were treated with an initial bolus of 40 IU/kg of heparin at the UCLA Medical Center. Dual antiplatelet therapy with clopidogrel and aspirin was administered prior to or just after diagnostic coronary angiography. The primary end‐point was the composite of cardiac death, myocardial infarction, urgent target vessel revascularization for ischemia, or major bleeding within 30 days after PCI.

Results

The mean activating clotting time was 233 ± 28 seconds. The primary end‐point occurred in 2.3%. The cardiac death rate was 0.3% but was not related to the PCI. The myocardial infarction rate was 1.3%. Urgent target vessel revascularization occurred in 1 patient (0.3%). The major bleeding rate was 0.3%. No stent thrombosis occurred.

Conclusion

Using a lower dose of heparin with dual antiplatelet therapy is safe and is associated with a low bleeding risk after transfemoral PCI while providing suppression of ischemic events. This may also represent a cost savings compared with other antithrombotic strategies. A randomized clinical trial comparing low‐dose heparin with bivalirudin in patients is required to determine the optimal anticoagulation strategy. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:58–62)
Methodology to Improve the Efficiency of Evaluation of the Severity of Angular Leaf Spot in Common Bean
Authors: Iwano Fernanda Keiko , Ramalho Magno Antonio Patto , Cunha Vieira Júnior Indalécio , Abreu Ângela de Fátima Barbosa
Published: October 2013

Disease severity assessment by means of a scoring scale, especially for angular leaf spot (Pseudocercospora griseola) in common bean, is hindered in experiments for assessment of progenies and/or breeding lines due to lack of uniformity of occurrence of the pathogens and segregation within progenies. The purpose of this study was to estimate the efficiency of the use of one plant per plot in assessing the severity of angular leaf spot in experiments for assessment of progenies and/or breeding lines in the common bean crop. To that end, two experimental strategies were used – one of them using one plant per plot and another using a standard size plot (SPP) (2–4‐m length rows). The experiments were conducted in the period from November 2011 to May 2012 in the municipalities of Lavras and Lambari, state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. Forty‐one lines from the breeding programme of the Universidade Federal de Lavras (UFLA) and from other research institutions were assessed, which differed in regard to their degree of susceptibility to P. griseola. The lines were assessed in regard to the severity of said disease using a five‐degree diagrammatic scale. In all the one plant per plot experiments, severity scores of angular leaf spot from the beginning of its occurrence, and later in intervals ranging from 7 to 12 days, were obtained. In the experiment with the SPP, assessment was made a few days prior to grain harvest. Estimates of the correlations between severity scores and grain yield (GY) were mostly of small magnitude. There was good coincidence between the lines classified as more resistant or more susceptible to the pathogen under the two conditions.