bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methyl salicylate lactoside inhibits inflammatory response of fibroblast‐like synoviocytes and joint destruction in collagen‐induced arthritis in mice
Authors: Xin Wenyu , Huang Chao , Zhang Xue , Xin Sheng , Zhou Yiming , Ma Xiaowei , Zhang Dan , Li Yongjie , Zhou Sibai , Zhang Dongming , Zhang Tiantai , Du Guanhua
Published: April 2014

Background and Purpose

Methyl salicylate 2‐O‐β‐d‐lactoside (MSL), whose chemical structure is similar to that of salicylic acid, is a natural product derivative isolated from a traditional Chinese herb. The aim of this study was to investigate the therapeutic effect of MSL in mice with collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) and explore its underlying mechanism.

Experimental Approach

The anti‐arthritic effects of MSL were evaluated on human rheumatoid fibroblast‐like synoviocytes (FLS) in vitro and CIA in mice in vivo by obtaining clinical scores, measuring hind paw thickness and inflammatory cytokine levels, radiographic evaluations and histopathological assessments.

Key Results

Treatment with MSL after the onset of arthritis significantly prevented the progression and development of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in CIA mice without megascopic gastric mucosa damage. In addition, MSL inhibited the production of pro‐inflammatory mediators, the phosphorylation and translocation of NF‐κB, and cell proliferation induced by TNF‐α in FLS. MSL non‐selectively inhibited the activity of COX in vitro, but was a more potent inhibitor of COX‐2 than COX‐1. MSL also inhibited the phosphorylation of inhibitor of NF‐κB kinase, IκBα and p65, thus blocking the nuclear translocation of NF‐κB in TNF‐α‐stimulated FLS.

Conclusion and Implications

MSL exerts therapeutic effects on CIA mice, suppressing the inflammatory response and joint destruction by non‐selectively inhibiting the activity of COX and suppressing activation of the NF‐κB signalling pathway, but without damaging the gastric mucosa. Therefore, MSL has great potential to be developed into a novel therapeutic agent for the treatment of RA.
Anti‐tumor effects of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid on Epstein–Barr virus‐associated T cell and natural killer cell lymphoma
Authors: Siddiquey Mohammed N.A. , Nakagawa Hikaru , Iwata Seiko , Kanazawa Tetsuhiro , Suzuki Michio , Imadome Ken‐Ichi , Fujiwara Shigeyoshi , Goshima Fumi , Murata Takayuki , Kimura Hiroshi
Published: April 2014

The ubiquitous Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infects not only B cells but also T cells and natural killer (NK) cells and is associated with various lymphoid malignancies. Recent studies have reported that histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors exert anticancer effects against various tumor cells. In the present study, we have evaluated both the in vitro and in vivo effects of suberoylanilide hydroxamic acid (SAHA), an HDAC inhibitor, on EBV‐positive and EBV‐negative T and NK lymphoma cells. Several EBV‐positive and EBV‐negative T and NK cell lines were treated with various concentrations of SAHA. SAHA suppressed the proliferation of T and NK cell lines, although no significant difference was observed between EBV‐positive and EBV‐negative cell lines. SAHA induced apoptosis and/or cell cycle arrest in several T and NK cell lines. In addition, SAHA increased the expression of EBV‐lytic genes and decreased the expression of EBV‐latent genes. Next, EBV‐positive NK cell lymphoma cells were subcutaneously inoculated into severely immunodeficient NOD/Shi‐scid/IL‐2Rγnull mice, and then SAHA was administered intraperitoneally. SAHA inhibited tumor progression and metastasis in the murine xenograft model. SAHA displayed a marked suppressive effect against EBV‐associated T and NK cell lymphomas through either induction of apoptosis or cell cycle arrest, and may represent an alternative treatment option.
Grass‐specific CD4+ T‐cells exhibit varying degrees of cross‐reactivity, implications for allergen‐specific immunotherapy
Authors: Archila L. D. , DeLong J. H. , Wambre E. , James E. A. , Robinson D. M. , Kwok W. W.
Published: April 2014

Background

Conceptually, allergic responses may involve cross‐reactivity by antibodies or T‐cells. While IgE cross‐reactivity among grass‐pollen allergens has been observed, cross‐reactivity at the allergen‐specific T‐cell level has been less documented. Identification of the patterns of cross‐reactivity may improve our understanding, allowing optimization of better immunotherapy strategies.

Objectives

We use Phleum pratense as model for the studying of cross‐reactivity at the allergen‐specific CD4+ T cell level among DR04:01 restricted Pooideae grass‐pollen T‐cell epitopes.

Methods

After in vitro culture of blood mono‐nucleated cells from grass‐pollen‐allergic subjects with specific Pooideae antigenic epitopes, dual tetramer staining with APC‐labelled DR04:01/Phleum pratense tetramers and PE‐labelled DR04:01/Pooideae grass homolog tetramers was assessed to identify cross‐reactivity among allergen‐specific DR04:01‐restricted T‐cells in six subjects. Direct ex vivo staining enabled the comparison of frequency and phenotype of different Pooideae grass‐pollen reactive T‐cells. Intracellular cytokine staining (ICS) assays were also used to examine phenotypes of these T‐cells.

Results

T‐cells with various degrees of cross‐reactive profiles could be detected. Poa p 1 97–116, Lol p 1 221–240, Lol p 5a 199–218, and Poa p 5a 199–218 were identified as minimally cross‐reactive T‐cell epitopes that do not show cross‐reactivity to Phl p 1 and Phl p 5a epitopes. Ex vivo tetramer staining assays demonstrated T‐cells that recognized these minimally cross‐reactive T‐cell epitopes are present in Grass‐pollen‐allergic subjects.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that not all Pooideae grass epitopes with sequence homology are cross‐reactive. Non‐cross‐reactive T‐cells with comparable frequency, phenotype and functionality to Phl p‐specific T‐cells suggest that a multiple allergen system should be considered for immunotherapy instead of a mono‐allergen system.
Out‐of‐Core Construction of Sparse Voxel Octrees
Authors: Baert J. , Lagae A. , Dutré Ph.
Published: April 2014

Voxel‐based rendering has recently received significant attention due to its potential in the context of efficiently rendering massively large and highly detailed scenes. Unfortunately, few scenes are available in the form of sparse voxel octrees. In this paper, we present an out‐of‐core algorithm for constructing a sparse voxel octree from a triangle mesh. Our algorithm allows the input triangle mesh, the output sparse voxel octree and, most importantly, the intermediate high‐resolution 3D voxel grid, to be larger than available memory. We demonstrate that our out‐of‐core algorithm can construct sparse voxel octrees from triangle meshes using only a fraction of the memory required by an in‐core algorithm in roughly the same time, and that our out‐of‐core algorithm can also handle extremely large triangle meshes.
Amelioration of Ischemic Mitochondrial Injury and Bax‐Dependent Outer Membrane Permeabilization by Mdivi‐1
Authors: Zhao Yan‐Xin , Cui Mei , Chen Shu‐Fen , Dong Qiang , Liu Xue‐Yuan
Published: April 2014

Aims

Disturbance of the balance between mitochondrial fission and fusion has been implicated in cerebral ischemia and several neurodegenerative diseases, whereas the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. In the present study, we attempted to investigate the role of dynamin‐related protein 1 (Drp1), a key mitochondrial fission protein, in the pathogenesis of cerebral ischemia.

Methods

Using Drp1 siRNA or Mdivi‐1, a small molecule inhibitor of Drp1, we examined the effect of Drp1 knockdown or inhibition on oxygen‐glucose deprivation (OGD)‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and death of SH‐SY‐5Y cells. Cell death and viability were evaluated with LDH and MTT assays, respectively, and mitochondrial morphology, mitochondrial membrane potential (Δψm), and ATP production were assessed using epifluorescence microscopy, flow cytometry, and HPLC, respectively. Moreover, to examine the effect of Drp1 inhibition on ischemic brain injury, middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) mice were injected (i.p.) with Mdivi1, and blood–brain barrier permeability, brain water content, and cell apoptosis were assessed.

Results

Knockdown or inhibition of Drp1 by Mdivi‐1 significantly attenuated OGD‐induced cell death in SH‐SY‐5Y cells, associated with reduced morphological change of mitochondria and attenuated Bax insertion,oligomerization. Moreover, treatment of the MCAO mice with Mdivi‐1 remarkably reduced the infarct volume and neurological deficits in a dose‐dependent manner, associated with marked reduction of mitochondrial fragmentation and BAX expression.

Conclusions

Down‐regulation or inhibition of Drp1 may reduce cerebral ischemic damage through maintaining normal mitochondrial morphology and function, and decreasing Bax insertion and oligomerization in mitochondria.
Obese sedentary patients with dyspnoea on exertion who are at low risk for coronary artery disease by clinical criteria have a very low prevalence of coronary artery disease
Authors: Bruckel J. T. , Larsen G. , Benson M. R.
Published: April 2014

Dyspnoea, a much less specific symptom of ischaemia than chest discomfort, is common among obese patients. Patients with dyspnoea often undergo stress testing as part of their evaluation. We sought to examine the yield of stress testing in non‐elderly, obese, sedentary patients with dyspnoea on exertion (DOE) as a chief complaint.We reviewed stress echocardiograms carried out on 203 patients in a stress testing laboratory at a major tertiary care centre. Of these, 81 (40%) fell into a group that was at low risk for coronary artery disease (CAD) by clinical criteria. Ischaemia was detected in two patients in the low‐risk group (2.5%), and these results were likely false positives. In the higher risk group, 9.0% of functional tests showed ischaemia; after further testing, 2.5% of the higher risk patients were found to have obstructive coronary lesions. Clinical follow‐up was performed for a mean of 815 days. New obstructive coronary disease was detected in 1.6% of all patients, and these patients were from the higher risk group. In obese sedentary patients with DOE but otherwise at low risk of coronary disease stress testing is of very low yield. DOE is generally not an anginal equivalent in this patient population.
High intra‐individual variability of cyclosporine pharmacokinetics in lung transplant recipients without cystic fibrosis
Authors: Méndez Alejandra , Monforte Víctor , Berastegui Cristina , López‐Meseguer Manuel , Bravo Carlos , Pou Leonor , Roman Antonio
Published: April 2014

Background

There has been little study on the variability of CsA pharmacokinetics in stable lung transplant (LT) recipients without cystic fibrosis. This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of high intra‐individual variability of CsA in LT recipients and its implications in CsA monitoring.

Methods

Twenty‐nine pharmacokinetic curves were performed in 10 consecutive stable patients from a single center. The intra‐individual coefficient of variation (CV) of the AUC0–12 h was calculated in each case. Patients were grouped according to whether their CV was high (≥20%) or low (<20%). Correlations between cyclosporine CsA concentration at each time point, AUC0–4 h, and AUC0–12 h were also calculated.

Results

Six (60%) patients presented low CVs and four (40%) high CVs. In patients with low CVs, the best correlation of AUC0–12 h was with CsA concentration at two h post‐dose (C2) (r = 0.674, p = 0.002), whereas in those with high CV, the best correlation was with C5 (r = 0.800, p = 0.003). In the latter group, the correlation with C2 was low (r = 0.327, p = 0.32), whereas the correlation with C0 was high (r = 0.709, p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Intra‐individual variability of CsA pharmacokinetics may be high in many LT recipients. In patients with high CV, the use of C0 levels may be more appropriate for CsA monitoring than C2 levels.
Do statins cause or prevent dementia?
Authors: Lavie C. J. , DiNicolantonio J. J. , O'Keefe J. H. , Milani R. V.
Published: April 2014

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Oral treatment of parenchymal central nervous system neuroborreliosis – are we there yet?
Authors: Halperin J. J.
Published: April 2014

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Changes of serum anti‐Müllerian hormone in a mare with granulosa cell tumour following surgery and reinitiation of follicular activity
Authors: Gharagozlou F. , Youssefi R. , Akbarinejad V. , Masoudifard M. , Ashrafihelan J.
Published: April 2014

Anti‐Müllerian hormone (AMH) has been reported to be elevated in mares with granulosa cell tumour (GCT). An 8‐year‐old Thoroughbred mare was presented for not being observed in oestrus after the beginning of the breeding season. Rectal palpation and ultrasonography revealed enlargement and cystic appearance of the left ovary while the right ovary was small with an anoestrous‐like appearance. The AMH concentration was 694.9 ng/ml. Presumptively diagnosed with GCT, the mare was subjected to tumour removal. Histopathology confirmed GCT. To evaluate changes of AMH concentration following surgery, blood samples were collected immediately prior to surgery, and on Days 1, 2, 4, 8, 16 and 32 after surgery. Thereafter, blood samples were collected monthly and also at the time the mare was observed in oestrus (148 days after tumour removal). The AMH concentrations decreased over the first 2 months after surgery (from 721.2 ng/ml to 0.1 ng/ml). Subsequently, AMH concentration increased and peaked at the time of oestrus expression (0.7 ng/ml). The mare then became anoestrous, and AMH concentration decreased and reached 0.2 ng/ml, which was not significantly different from the mean concentration of AMH in normal anoestrous mares (n = 5; 0.26 ± 0.07 ng/ml). In conclusion, the present report implies the potential use of AMH for determination of the time of follicular resumption in mares after GCT removal.
Noncitrated blood transfusions used as adjunctive treatment in a 7‐year‐oldShetlandPony with haemoperitoneum due to a rupturedcorpus haemorrhagicum
Authors: Fouché N. , Cornelisse K. , Gerber V. , Gurtner C. , Krudewig C. , Koch C.
Published: April 2014

Chronic bleeding due to extensive haemorrhage from a rupturedcorpus haemorrhagicumdeveloped 2–4 weeks after parturition and was identified as the cause for a haemoperitoneum in a 7‐year‐old Shetland Pony mare, leading to anaemia. Diagnosis was made upon exploratory coeliotomy and a unilateral ovariectomy was performed. Intra‐ and post operatively, the mare received autologous blood transfusions of noncitrated blood. To our knowledge, this is the first report of an autologous blood transfusion accomplished using noncitrated blood collected from the abdominal cavity.
Resection of the incisive bone and rostral maxillae for removal of an ossifying fibroma in an 18‐year‐old Warmblood gelding
Authors: Lechartier A. , Steele E. , Vallefuoco R. , Mespoulhès‐Rivière C.
Published: April 2014

A 510 kg, 18‐year‐oldWarmblood gelding used for high level dressage was presented with a 6 week history of a growing mass at the rostral aspect of the incisive bone. Radiographic examination of the maxillae showed an osteolytic lesion between the left maxillary central and intermediate teeth spreading caudally into the hard palate. Biopsy of the mass was consistent with an aggressive oral fibrosarcoma. Diagnostic work‐up ruled out metastatic lesions. An amputation of the incisive bone and part of the rostral maxillae was performed with the intent of removing the mass in healthy margins. However, the neoplastic tissue extended to the rostral aspect of the ventral nasal conchae and a resection in healthy margins was not performed to avoid surgical complications due to communication with the nasal conchae. After surgery, the horse's appetite and food uptake were not impaired and cosmetic appearance was excellent. Active drains were used in order to prevent any submucosal collection of fluids. Histopathological examination of the surgical margins of the removed maxillae confirmed the presence of tumoural tissue. Even though excision of the tumour was not complete, no macroscopic local recurrence was reported post operatively at 36 months' follow‐up. Based on histological re‐evaluation of the removed tissue and the absence of recurrence a definitive diagnosis of ossifying fibroma was made.
Functional implications of large backbone amplitude motions of the glycoprotein 130‐binding epitope of interleukin‐6
Authors: Bobby Romel , Robustelli Paul , Kralicek Andrew V. , Mobli Mehdi , King Glenn F. , Grötzinger Joachim , Dingley Andrew J.
Published: April 2014

Human interleukin (IL)‐6 plays a pivotal role in the immune response, hematopoiesis, the acute‐phase response, and inflammation.IL‐6 has three distinct receptor epitopes, termed sites I,II, andIII, that facilitate the formation of a signaling complex.IL‐6 signals via a homodimer of glycoprotein 130 (gp130) after initially forming a heterodimer with the nonsignaling α‐receptor [IL‐6 α‐receptor (IL‐6R)] via site I. Here, we present the backbone dynamics of apo‐IL‐6 as determined by analysis ofNMRrelaxation data with the extended model‐free formalism of Lipari and Szabo. To alleviate significant resonance overlap in theHSQC‐type spectra, cell‐free protein synthesis was used to selectively15N‐label residues, thereby ensuring a complete set of residue‐specific dynamics. The calculated order parameters [square of the generalized model‐free order parameter (S2)] showed significant conformational heterogeneity among clusters of residues inIL‐6. In particular, the N‐terminal region of the longAB‐loop, which corresponds spatially to one of the gp130 receptor binding epitopes (i.e. siteIII), experiences substantial fluctuations along the conformation of the main chain (S2 = 0.3–0.8) that are not observed at the other two epitopes or in other cytokines. Thus, we postulate that dynamic properties of theAB‐loop are responsible for inhibiting the interaction ofIL‐6 with gp130 in the absence of theIL‐6R, and that binding ofIL‐6R at site I shifts the dynamic equilibrium to favor interaction with gp130 at site III. In addition, molecular dynamics simulations corroborated theNMR‐derived dynamics, and showed that theBC‐loop adopts different substates that possibly play a role in facilitating receptor assembly.
When Do Listed Firms Pay for Market Making in Their Own Stock?
Authors: Skjeltorp Johannes Atle , Ødegaard Bernt Arne
Published: April 2014

A recent innovation in the equity markets is the introduction of market maker services procured by the listed companies themselves. Using data from the Oslo Stock Exchange, we investigate what motivates issuing firms to pay to improve the secondary market liquidity of their listed shares. By examining the timing of market maker hirings relative to corporate events, we show that hirings are more likely when the firm will interact with the capital markets in the near future. Futhermore, a typical firm employing a designated market maker is more likely to raise capital, repurchase shares, or experience an exit by insiders.
Joint bleeding in factor VIII deficient mice causes an acute loss of trabecular bone and calcification of joint soft tissues which is prevented with aggressive factor replacement
Authors: Lau A. G. , Sun J. , Hannah W. B. , Livingston E. W. , Heymann D. , Bateman T. A. , Monahan P. E.
Published: April 2014

While chronic degenerative arthropathy is the main morbidity of haemophilia, a very high prevalence of low bone density is also seen in men and boys with haemophilia. This study investigates bone degradation in the knee joint of haemophilic mice resulting from haemarthrosis and the efficacy of aggressive treatment with factor VIII in the period surrounding injury to prevent bone pathology. Skeletally mature factor VIII knock‐out mice were subjected to knee joint haemorrhage induced by puncture of the left knee joint capsule. Mice received either intravenous factor VIII treatment or placebo immediately prior to injury and at hours 4, 24, 48, 72 and 96 after haemorrhage. Mice were killed 2‐weeks after injury and the joint morphology and loss of bone in the proximal tibia was assessed using microCT imaging. Quantitative microCT imaging of the knee joint found acute bone loss at the proximal tibia following injury including loss of trabecular bone volumetric density and bone mineral density, as well as trabecular connectivity density, number and thickness. Unexpectedly, joint injury also resulted in calcification of the joint soft tissues including the tendons, ligaments, menisci and cartilage. Treatment with factor VIII prevented this bone and soft tissue degeneration. Knee joint haemorrhage resulted in acute changes in adjacent bone including loss of bone density and mineralization of joint soft tissues. The rapid calcification and loss of bone has implications for the initiation and progression of osteoarthritic degradation following joint bleeding.
Fabrication of Cr‐Cr23C6/Cr2N Composite Coatings: Change in the Phase Structure and Effect on the Corrosion Properties
Authors: Sancakoglu Orkut , Ungan Guler , Celik Erdal , Aksoy Tevfik
Published: April 2014

Cr‐C composite coatings were electro‐codeposited in sulfuric acid‐based solutions containing submicrometer‐sized carbon black particles. The effect of heat‐treatment conditions on the carbide phase formation in the composite coatings and their corrosion behaviors were investigated. The obtained results showed that the Cr‐C composite coatings can be fabricated successfully and with an additional heat treatment, it is possible to obtain a Cr‐Cr23C6/Cr2N composite structure. Therefore, the increase in corrosion potential suggests improvement in corrosion resistance due to the formation of Cr23C6/Cr2N. This implies that Cr‐Cr23C6 and/or Cr2N composite coatings have potential application to industrial fields in many respects.
Freshness retention of minimally processed melon using different packages and multilayered edible coating containing microencapsulated essential oil
Authors: Moreira Samira Pereira , de Carvalho Winne Moita , Alexandrino Angeline Costa , de Paula Haroldo César Bezerra , Rodrigues Maria do Carmo Passos , de Figueiredo Raimundo Wilane , Maia Geraldo Arraes , de Figueiredo Evânia Maria Altina Teixeira , Brasil Isabella Montenegro
Published: April 2014

This study evaluated the effectiveness of packaging using a microencapsulated β‐cyclodextrin and trans‐cinnamaldehyde complex incorporated into a base chitosan matrix on the shelf life of fresh‐cut melon (Cucumis melo L. var. Reticulatus Naud) group Inodorus that were coated with a multilayered coating system using a polypropylene tray (Ziploc®) with (i) Ziploc® lid, (ii) Saran® wrap and (iii) plain cheesecloth and stored at 4 °C for 15 days. The multilayered antimicrobial coating improved the shelf life of fresh‐cut melon (up to 15 days), compared with the controls (7 days). Coated samples were firmer, maintained colour and total carotenoids content and showed less weight loss than the controls (P < 0.05). Among the packaging treatments, the Ziploc® lid was the most effective in maintaining shelf life. This study demonstrates the application of a new generation of edible coating using natural antimicrobial agents by means of the layer‐by‐layer assembly.
Fermented milk obtained with kefir grains as an ingredient in breadmaking
Authors: Gómez Analía V. , Ferrero Cristina , Puppo Cecilia , Tadini Carmen C. , Abraham Analía G.
Published: April 2014

The objectives of this research were to study the effect of the addition of lyophilised kefir milk to premixes for household production of bread and evaluate the quality attributes of them. Four lyophilised samples were obtained from the followings: skim milk, acidified skim milk, fermented skim milk and neutralised fermented skim milk. Breads were prepared with commercial wheat flour, lyophilised milk samples and yeast through a straight dough process. Quality was assessed through loaf volume, crumb porosity and moisture, crumb texture and crust colour. Changes in texture and starch recrystallisation by X‐ray diffractometry were determined after 1 and 3 days of storage at room temperature. Breads with acidified milks showed the highest specific volumes and crumbs with the best texture properties. Crystallinity in bread with fermented milks was higher than for skim milk sample. This would indicate that there would be a certain effect of the type of milk processing on the promotion of starch retrogradation.
The increased killing of biofilms in vitro by combining topical silver dressings with topical negative pressure in chronic wounds
Authors: Valente Pedro Miguel DS , Deva Anand , Ngo Quan , Vickery Karen
Published: April 2014

Chronic wounds remain a significant medical and financial burden in hospitals of today. A major factor in the transition from an acute to a chronic wound is its bacterial bioburden. Developments in molecular techniques have shown that chronic wounds remain colonised by many species of bacteria and that the bacteria within these chronic wounds exist in two forms. Treatments of chronic wounds have maintained a challenging field and significant ongoing research is being conducted. With the development of an in vitro wound model, we applied topical negative pressure (TNP) dressings to a spectrum of common bacterial biofilms found in chronic wounds and studied the synergistic efficacy between the application of TNP and silver‐impregnated foam against these biofilms. This synergistic response was seen within the laboratory strains of staphylococcal biofilms over a 3‐day treatment period but lost following the 5 days of treatment. However, combining topical pressure dressings and silver foam lead to a synergistic inactivation in Pseudomonas species over both 3‐day and 5‐day treatments.
Intervertebral Disk Disease in 3 Striped Skunks (Mephitis mephitis)
Authors: Krauss Maximiljan W. , Benato Livia , Wack Allison , McDonnell John J. , Schoemaker Nico J. , Westerhof Ineke , Bronson Ellen , Gielen Ingrid , Van Caelenberg Annemie , Hellebuyck Tom , Meij Björn P. , De Decker Steven
Published: April 2014

Objective

To describe diagnostic findings, surgical technique, and outcome in 3 striped skunks (Mephitis mephitis) with a history of paraparesis.

Study Design

Case series.

Animals

Skunks (n = 3) with paraparesis.

Methods

Neurologic examination revealed upper motor neuron disease (T2–L2) in 2 skunks and lower motor neuron disease (L3–S3) in 1 skunk. Diagnostic imaging included radiography, myelography, CT, and MRI and confirmed intervertebral disk herniation (IVDH) in each skunk. Because initial treatment with pain medication and cage rest did not result in lasting improvement, spinal surgery was performed.

Results

Hemilaminectomy (2 skunks) and dorsal laminectomy (1 skunk) was performed with removal of extruded disk material. The skunks improved after surgery but all had minor residual neurologic deficits when examined at various times postoperatively.

Conclusion

Thoracolumbar intervertebral disk herniation occurs in skunks, and must be included in the differential diagnosis of paraparesis.
Assessing Candidates at Home and Abroad: A Comparative Analysis of Colombian Expatriates in the 2010 Presidential Elections
Authors: Escobar Cristina , Arana Renelinda , McCann James A.
Published: April 2014

This article examines candidate favorability among Colombian expatriates and Colombians in the home country in the 2010 Colombian presidential elections. It analyzes the influence of several socioeconomic, migratory, mobilizing, and contextual factors on candidate appraisal using a large exit poll conducted at Colombian consulates in five cities in the United States and Europe and five cities with high emigration rates in Colombia. Aside from differences in candidate favorability stemming from socioeconomic variables (education, income, and religious affiliation), Colombians living abroad largely evaluate candidates in ways similar to Colombians living in the country.
Explaining Electoral Volatility in Latin America: Evidence at the Party Level
Authors: Su Yen-Pin
Published: April 2014

Many existing explanations of electoral volatility have been tested at the country level, but they are largely untested at the individual party level. This study reexamines theories of electoral volatility through the use of multilevel models on party-level data in the lower house elections of 18 Latin American countries from 1978 to 2012. Testing hypotheses at different levels, it finds that irregular institutional alteration increases electoral volatility for all the parties in a country, but the effect is more significant for the presidential party. At the party level, the results show that while a party that is more ideologically distinctive than other parties tends to experience lower electoral volatility, party age is not a statistically significant factor for explaining party volatility.
Human Nature, Human Cultures and the Communication of the Knowledge of
God
Authors: Storck Thomas
Published: April 2014

The Catechism of the Catholic Church speaks
of “the ability of human reason to know God [and the Church's] confidence in
speaking about him to all men….” Such claims involve both philosophical and
theological questions concerning the possibility of transcending cultures.
Philosophy can vindicate the capacity of the intellect to speak of God, and
despite varying intellectual traditions, the Church has been able to
communicate the Gospel across cultural boundaries. In fact, historically
Christendom was built up by preaching not to individuals but to cultures.
Conversion of a culture means that its fundamental principle has changed,
and individuals will usually begin to change with it. This does not
necessarily imply an inauthentic or merely formal religious adherence, but
highlights the fact that cultures as well as individuals are susceptible of
evangelization.
The De Geer, Thulean and Beringia routes: key concepts for understanding early Cenozoic biogeography
Authors: Brikiatis Leonidas
Published: April 2014

Aim

I re‐evaluate the specific biogeographical significance of each of the land bridges (Beringia, Thulean and De Geer) in the Northern Hemisphere during the latest Cretaceous–early Cenozoic, showing that the Thulean and De Geer routes did not operate contemporaneously.

Location

Northern Hemisphere landmasses.

Methods

I review the recent climatic, sea‐level, geotectonic, palaeofloristic, and marine and terrestrial faunal data that have emerged since the establishment in the 1980s of the biogeographical concepts of the early Cenozoic Northern Hemisphere land bridges and present a synthesis supporting a revised scenario for early Cenozoic biogeographical development.

Results

Palaeogeographical and geotectonic data, supported by strong floral and faunal evidence, suggest that the palaeogeographical and chronological frames for the formation of all three land bridges are different from those originally proposed. Dispersal events via the causeways seem to have taken place during specific time intervals resulting from fluctuations in sea level and climate.

Main conclusions

The De Geer and Thulean routes were not contemporaneous. The former existed during the latest Cretaceous to the early Palaeocene, joining North America with Eurasia. The Thulean route became established well after the interruption of the De Geer route, offering a southerly connection between western Europe and North America in at least two episodes:c. 57 Ma andc. 56 Ma. The Bering route functioned in two warm periods: 65.5 Ma (coinciding with the De Geer route) andc. 58 Ma, during the Palaeocene (possible Eocene exposures are not considered here). The formation of the De Geer route explains faunal similarities between the Puercan and Torrejonian North American land mammal ages (NALMAs) and the Shanghuan Asian land mammal age (ALMA). The Thulean route explains faunal similarities between the Clarkforkian (Cf1) and Wasatchian (Wa0, 1)NALMAs, and the Cernaysian and Neustrian (PEI,II) European land mammal ages. The Bering route explains faunal similarities between the GashatanALMAand the Tiffanian (Ti5)NALMA.
Amniotic mesenchymal stem cells display neurovascular tropism and aid in the recovery of injured peripheral nerves
Authors: Li YongNan , Guo Longzhe , Ahn Hyun Sook , Kim Moo Hyun , Kim Sung‐Whan
Published: April 2014

Recently, we reported that human amniotic membrane‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (AMMs) possess great angiogenic potential. In this study, we determined whether local injection of AMMs ameliorates peripheral neuropathy. AMMs were transplanted into injured sciatic nerves. AMM injection promoted significant recovery of motor nerve conduction velocity and voltage amplitude compared to human adipose‐derived mesenchymal stem cells. AMM implantation also augmented blood perfusion and increased intraneural vascularity. Whole‐mount fluorescent imaging analysis demonstrated that AMMs exhibited higher engraftment and endothelial incorporation abilities in the sciatic nerve. In addition, the higher expression of pro‐angiogenic factors was detected in AMMs injected into the peripheral nerve. Therefore, these data provide novel therapeutic and mechanistic insights into stem cell biology, and AMM transplantation may represent an alternative therapeutic option for treating peripheral neuropathy.
Commentary: ADHD and social disadvantage: an inconvenient truth? – a reflection on Russell et al. () and Larsson et al. ()
Authors: Nigg Joel T. , Craver Lindsay
Published: April 2014

In the 1950's, many experts believed hyperkinesis was a neurotic reaction to inner conflicts arising from early family experiences. In the 1990's, many experts believed ADHD to be ‘genetic’ (without a mechanistic explanation of what that meant). Both views appear naïve today in a scientific world grappling with the complexity of highly plastic gene expression, gene x environment interplay, and epigenetic, context‐dependent emergence of psychopathology. Both views also fail to account for the uncomfortable fact that ADHD is also associated with social disadvantage – a level of analysis required in a developmental psychopathology approach. That developmental psychopathology approach, pioneered a generation ago, initially emphasized the accumulation of risk and protective factors, and emerged in a contemporary systemic approach that seeks to determine whether it is risk accumulation (e.g., allostatic load) or specific risk factors (e.g., family process) that mechanistically shape psychopathology. Despite the prominence of the developmental psychopathology perspective, the social context of ADHD is surprisingly neglected today. Both Russell et al. (this issue, 2014) and Larsson et al. (this issue, 2014) take strides toward remedying this state of affairs.
Commentary: Beyond stressful life events and depression? – reflections on Bogdan et al. ()
Authors: Belsky Jay
Published: April 2014

In light of continuing disagreement, even at the meta‐analytic level, as to whether the gene‐ × ‐environment (G×E) interaction involving 5‐HTTLPR and stressful life events (SLEs) predicts depression, Bogdan and associates (this issue, Bogdan et al., 2014) sought to extend research on what has become a highly controversial general (GxE) and specific (5HTTLPR X SLEs) arena of inquiry. Thus, rather than seeking to replicate this specific GXE interaction in another sample of adolescents or adults, these investigators shifted the developmental focus–to very young children, aged 3‐5 years of age. This re‐direction was motivated by the kindling hypothesis which stipulates that the earliest episodes of depression might be especially sensitive to environmental adversity, with later episodes very much dependent on earlier ones and less a function of later‐life environmental provocation. Thus, the investigators reasoned that the controversial G×E interaction might actually prove more evident and exert a more pronounced impact early in childhood than at older ages where they have been so extensively studied.
Geographical variation of Plutella xylostella (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae) populations revealed by mitochondrial COI gene in China
Authors: Niu Y.‐Q. , Nansen C. , Li X.‐W. , Liu T.‐X.
Published: April 2014

The diamondback moth, Plutella xylostella (L.) (Lepidoptera: Plutellidae), is one of the most serious pests for cruciferous vegetable growers worldwide. To determine the relations of local and regional populations, we performed a mitochondrial COI gene analysis of eight P. xylostella populations from different locations in or around the Qinling Mountains and two other populations, one from Beijing and the other from Guangdong. The mtDNA divergences among the 10 populations were high, and 32 haplotypes were detected in 149 adults. The mean haplotype divergence was 1.7% (range 0.04–4.1%). Haplotype diversity in the 10 populations varied from 0.571 (AK) to 0.885 (HZ), and the nucleotide diversity varied from 0.00286 (AK) to 0.0117 (HZ). The results also did not show significant correlation between genetic and geographical distance. Also, the effective number of migrants between populations (Nm) ranged from 1.43 to infinite, suggesting that population exchange and gene flow among the P. xylostella populations occurred. However, principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the TB and TC populations were differentiated from other populations, indicating possible across‐mountain barrier to migration and gene flow.
Incentives and Endogenous Risk Taking: A Structural View on Hedge Fund Alphas
Authors: BURASCHI ANDREA , KOSOWSKI ROBERT , SRITRAKUL WORRAWAT
Published: April 2014

Hedge fund managers are subject to several nonlinear incentives: performance fee options (call); equity investors' redemption options (put); and prime broker contracts allowing for forced deleverage (put). The interaction of these option‐like incentives affects optimal leverage ex ante, depending on the distance of fund‐value from the high‐water mark. We study how these endogenous effects influence performance measures used in the literature. We show that reduced‐form measures that do not account for these features are subject to economically significant false discovery biases. The result is stronger for low‐quality funds. We propose an alternative structural methodology for conducting performance attribution in hedge funds.
Sizing Up Repo
Authors: KRISHNAMURTHY ARVIND , NAGEL STEFAN , ORLOV DMITRY
Published: April 2014

To understand which short‐term debt markets experienced “runs” during the financial crisis, we analyze a novel data set of repurchase agreements (repo), that is, loans between nonbank cash lenders and dealer banks collateralized with securities. Consistent with a run, repo volume backed by private asset‐backed securities falls to near zero in the crisis. However, the reduction is only $182 billion, which is small relative to the stock of private asset‐backed securities as well as the contraction in asset‐backed commercial paper. While the repo contraction is small in aggregate, it disproportionately affected a few dealer banks.
Psychological contract breach and employee innovation: A conservation of resources perspective
Authors: Kiazad Kohyar , Seibert Scott E. , Kraimer Maria L.
Published: April 2014

Drawing on conservation of resources (COR) theory, this study examines conditions under which psychological contract breach relates to employees’ use of work‐role innovation as a means to acquire or conserve resources. Specifically, we used the organizational embeddedness dimensions of links, person–organization (P–O) fit, and sacrifices (Mitchell et al., , Academy of Management Journal, 44, 1102) to capture the kinds of resources that are likely to determine whether breach relates to more (resource acquisition) or less (resource conservation) innovation. We expected breach to relate to more innovation among employees with more links, better P–O fit, or fewer sacrifices. Using survey data from 90 university professionals and alumni in Australia, we found that links, P–O fit, and sacrifices moderated the breach–innovation relationship as hypothesized. Specifically, breach was related to more innovation after 6 months among employees with more links, better P–O fit, or fewer perceived sacrifices, as compared to those with fewer links, lower P–O fit, or greater perceived sacrifices. Implications of these findings for theory and practice are discussed.

Practitioner points

To promote constructive employee responses to resource loss, organizations should find ways to increase employees’ instrumental social and psychological resources.

Employees’ social resources (links) can be increased through social events, mentoring programmes, or the use of role models during on‐the‐job socialization.

Building employees’ psychological resources (P–O fit) starts with recruitment and selection. Realistic information about the organization's values should be provided to job candidates, so they can make informed choices about their compatibility with this value system.

Binding employees to the organization with material and psychological job benefits (e.g., bonuses and interesting projects) might not encourage constructive employee responses to resource loss.
Comparison of muscle activity between two adult groups according to the number of Shaker exercise
Authors: Woo H.‐S. , Won S.‐Y. , Chang K.‐Y.
Published: April 2014

The purpose of this study was to investigate the muscle activity of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles according to the number of Shaker exercise. The 19 experimental subjects were recruited and randomly assigned to the two experimental groups. The 1st experimental group performed Shaker exercise once a day, and 2nd experimental group performed Shaker exercise three times a day for 6 weeks. Shaker exercise consists of isometric and isotonic contraction movement, enhancing the strength of suprahyoid muscle and increasing the opening of UES. After performing Shaker exercise for 6 weeks, the muscle activity of experimental groups was measured and analysed by surface electromyography. As a result, muscle activity of the suprahyoid and infrahyoid muscles showed significant improvement in both groups (P < 0·05). Comparing muscle activity of both groups, there was no significant difference. This means the Shaker exercise shows similar exercise effects on suprahyoid muscle which is the primary target muscle irrespective of the number of Shaker exercise. The activity of the infrahyoid muscle, which takes a supportive role, also showed significant difference between the two groups. In the results of a follow‐up test after 4 weeks, muscle activity was higher than the initial status and the value of the EMG activity was statistically significant (P < 0·05). These results by EMG study may suggest that Shaker exercise performed once a day, like performing three times a day, has enough exercise effect and there is similar effect on the suprahyoid muscle between the 2 groups. In addition, the exercise effect lasts for 4 weeks after completing exercise.
The Development and Implementation of the Chicago Public Schools Emergency EpiPen® Policy
Authors: Zadikoff Emily H. , Whyte Stephanie A. , DeSantiago‐Cardenas Lilliana , Harvey‐Gintoft Blair , Gupta Ruchi S.
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

Food allergy affects 1 in 13 children, or 2 children per classroom. Food allergies are the leading cause of anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can result in death. In fact, 25% of first‐time anaphylactic reactions among children occur in school. To address this, the Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Office of Student Health and Wellness amended the Administration of Medication Policy in 2012.

METHODS

The CPS Administration of Medication Policy was reviewed and analyzed.

RESULTS

The policy allows all CPS district schools to be stocked with EpiPens and authorizes school nurses to administer them to students that the nurse in good faith professionally believes is having a first‐time anaphylactic reaction. Although the policy has proven effective, CPS faces challenges during implementation. CPS school nurse coverage is low, and therefore, there are times when no nurse is onsite to administer EpiPen treatment to a student experiencing a first‐time reaction.

CONCLUSIONS

This landmark policy provides quick and easy access to lifesaving treatment and protects nurses from liability in the event of an anaphylactic emergency. A challenge to this policy's utilization includes the lack of funding for daily nurse coverage in each school.
The Researchers Have Left the Building: What Contributes to Sustaining School‐Based Interventions Following the Conclusion of Formal Research Support?
Authors: Friend Sarah , Flattum Colleen F. , Simpson Danielle , Nederhoff Dawn M. , Neumark‐Sztainer Dianne
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

This study examined the sustainability of New Moves, a school‐based program aimed at decreasing weight‐related problems in adolescent girls. The National Cancer Institute recognizes New Moves as a research‐tested intervention program that produced positive behavioral and psychosocial outcomes.

METHODS

Ten schools participated in the sustainability study. Teachers completed a survey and interview, and research staff observed 1 physical education (PE) class within 2 years of the study's completion. Qualitative data were grouped by themes. Frequencies were calculated using quantitative data.

RESULTS

All schools continued all‐girls PE classes using New Moves components following the study period. Fewer schools continued the nutrition and social support classroom modules and individual coaching sessions while no schools continued lunch get‐togethers. Program components were sustained in both New Moves intervention schools and control schools.

CONCLUSIONS

Programs are most likely to be sustained if they (1) fit into the current school structure, (2) receive buy‐in by teachers, and (3) require minimal additional funds or staff time. Providing control schools with minimal training and intervention resources was sufficient to continue program components if staff perceived the program was important for students' health and compatible within the school's existing infrastructure.
State Farm‐to‐School Laws Influence the Availability of Fruits and Vegetables in School Lunches at US Public Elementary Schools
Authors: Nicholson Lisa , Turner Lindsey , Schneider Linda , Chriqui Jamie , Chaloupka Frank
Published: April 2014

BACKGROUND

State laws and farm‐to‐school programs (FTSPs) have the potential to increase fruit and vegetable (FV) availability in school meals. This study examined whether FV were more available in public elementary school lunches in states with a law requiring/encouraging FTSPs or with a locally grown‐related law, and whether the relationship between state laws and FV availability could be explained by schools opting for FTSPs.

METHODS

A pooled, cross‐sectional analysis linked a nationally representative sample of public elementary schools with state laws. A series of multivariate logistic regressions, controlling for school‐level demographics were performed according to mediation analysis procedures for dichotomous outcomes.

RESULTS

Roughly 50% of schools reported FV availability in school lunches on most days of the week. Schools with the highest FV availability (70.6%) were in states with laws and schools with FTSPs. State laws requiring/encouraging FTSPs were significantly associated with increased FV availability in schools and a significant percentage (13%) of this relationship was mediated by schools having FTSPs.

CONCLUSIONS

Because state farm‐to‐school laws are associated with significantly higher FV availability in schools—through FTSPs, as well as independently—enacting more state legislation may facilitate increased FTSP participation by schools and increased FV availability in school meals.