bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are all internships beneficial learning experiences? An exploratory study
Authors: Holyoak Lynda
Published: August 2013

Purpose

Internships are becoming a more common feature of the career paths of young people, however there has been little consideration of how people learn on internships. The purpose of this paper is report on the experiences of interns and their supervisors on a research internship programme.

Design/methodology/approach

This study analyses the experiences of interns and their supervisors on a research internship programme, using communities of practice as a theoretical framework. In total, six interns and six supervisors were interviewed approximately six to eight months after the internships were completed.

Findings

Extreme types of experience in the internships are illustrated by four cases derived from the interviews: optimal conditions for development; intern non‐development; supervisor frustration; and mutual dissatisfaction.

Research limitations/implications

Although the research is exploratory and limited to the experience of a small group of interns and their supervisors in one setting, it suggests that characteristics of the intern (such as motivation to learn) and the supervisor (e.g. willingness to provide support) can reduce or enhance the learning and development that is achieved during internships.

Originality/value

This paper questions implicit assumptions that internships are always positive and valuable learning experiences.
A critical account of practice within an innovative Foundation degree in UK higher education
Authors: Smith Paul , Poppitt Nicola , Scott Jonathan
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore the views of academics, senior university managers and employer representatives on the design and implementation of an innovative work‐based learning (WBL) programme in UK higher education.

Design/methodology/approach

The research project draws upon case study research and utilizes data from semi‐structured interviews and documentary analysis of policy papers. The experiences of university staff and employer representatives were analysed methodologically using the organisational story‐telling framework.

Findings

The paper exposes voices which are rarely heard in the public domain and provides insights into the challenges involved in introducing new practices within higher education. The themes that have emerged are: the intensity of the learning experience; tensions amongst academics delivering the programme; and, academic support for students, particularly in relation to the importance of face‐to‐face contact.

Originality/value

The paper addresses key gaps in the WBL literature, most notably a dearth of critical accounts of practice within WBL programmes from the perspective of university staff and employer representatives. This type of research is also needed given the increased priority by governments in relation to forging links between business and higher education.
Is the Middle East the land of the future? It is not a given!
Authors: Madichie Nnamdi O.
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this article is to be a conceptual contribution to the special issue on “Is the Middle East the land of the future?”. It aims to provide a holistic picture of the efforts of the Middle East towards achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), using investments in sports, as a galvanizing force. The paper concludes that, on the balance of probability, this might not be a given.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper is based on personal observations and documentary analysis of numerous studies including those in this special issue.

Findings

Although the Middle East has made “front page” news on most global media platforms – albeit for a variety of reasons, there are signs not to be too optimistic as to whether this geographic entity is, by default, the land of the future.

Research limitations/implications

As a conceptual piece, this article cannot be generalized across the expanse of what constitutes the Middle East. Most of the observations are based on the most boisterous in the region – notably members of the Gulf Cooperation countries (GCC) and Turkey with its rising regional influence.

Practical implications

While the Middle East may have been in the global spotlight, there remain challenges that cannot be so easily wished away. One such is the inability to leverage the investment in sports in a sustainable global partnership that spills over into other MDGs. There are persuasive arguments for deeper integration rather than what seems to be the fragmented sibling rivalry across the Middle East.

Originality/value

This study provides a holistic framework for analyzing a region that has been bedeviled with unrest in recent years; and one that has, to a very large extent, weathered the storm of the Arab Spring and attracted global attention.
A comparison of the effect of logistic strategy and logistics integration on firm competitiveness in the USA and China
Authors: Spillan John E. , McGinnis Michael A. , Kara Ali , Liu Yi George
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this manuscript is to empirically compare logistics strategies in Chinese and US manufacturing firms and the outcomes of these strategies to test the underlying factor structure and measurement equivalences of Bowersox/Daugherty model and its relationship with critical success factors.

Design/methodology/approach

A structured questionnaire was used to gather data from Chinese and American logistics managers. Using confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), the authors compared the three dimensions of the overall logistics strategy (OLS) – process strategy, market strategy, and information strategy – in two countries. A structural equation model (SEM) was then used to assess the impact of OLS on perceived competitiveness in two countries.

Findings

Although the economic, political, and cultural dimensions of the two countries differed substantially, the findings were similar. Data from both countries provided strong support for the three dimensions of overall logistic strategy (OLS). In addition, it was found that OLS, when combined with logistics coordination effectiveness (LCE) and customer service effectiveness (CSE), contributes to organizational effectiveness (COMP).

Practical implications

This research provides insights into comparative logistics in two large disparate economies and provides support for the Bowersox/Daugherty logistics/supply chain management typology.

Originality/value

This manuscript provides insights into comparative logistics/supply chain management that have not been previously reported through empirical research.
What drives environmental sustainability in the New Zealand wine industry?
Authors: Dodds Rachel , Graci Sonya , Ko Soyoung , Walker Lindsay
Published: August 2013

Purpose

While global wine consumption is growing, environmental sustainability in the wine industry is also receiving increased attention from retailers, governments, environmental groups, and consumers. New Zealand has experienced a winery boom over the past two decades with a 173 per cent increase in the number of wineries. Along with this growth, wineries are also facing issues such as water consumption, its impact on community, and waste management. The study therefore seeks to examine: the current sustainability initiatives undertaken by wineries; what drives the wine industry to engage in sustainable practices; and barriers to implementing sustainable practices.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a mixed method research approach, this study uses a triangulated approach to examine interviews and questionnaires to determine motivations and elements of influence.

Findings

This study found that the strong drivers for the sustainability initiatives are their concern about the state of the environment and social responsibility, followed by requirements for exporting and protection of agricultural land.

Research limitations/implications

A limitation of this study was a low response rate from the online questionnaire, which may influence or bias study results. However, detailed face‐to‐face interviews help to gain clarification on concepts and study results.

Practical implications

While global wine consumption is growing, environmental sustainability in the wine industry is also receiving increasing attention from retailers, governments, environmental groups and consumers. New Zealand has experienced a winery boom over the past two decades with a 173 per cent increase in the number of wineries. Along with this growth, wineries are also facing issues such as water consumption, its impact on community, and waste management.

Originality/value

Although there are many studies about the wine industry, relatively few studies have examined sustainability elements from a mixed‐method approach to determine practical elements which may influence practices undertaken. It also examines practices undertaken by wineries, barriers to implementation and incentives to further implementation.
Overlapping factors in search engine optimization and web accessibility
Authors: Moreno Lourdes , Martinez Paloma
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show that the pursuit of a high search engine relevance ranking for a webpage is not necessarily incompatible with the pursuit of web accessibility.

Design/methodology/approach

The research described arose from an investigation into the observed phenomenon that pages from accessible websites regularly appear near the top of search engine (such as Google) results, without any deliberate effort having been made through the application of search engine optimization (SEO) techniques to achieve this. The reasons for this phenomenon appear to be found in the numerous similarities and overlapping characteristics between SEO factors and web accessibility guidelines. Context is provided through a review of sources including accessibility standards and relevant SEO studies and the relationship between SEO and web accessibility is described. The particular overlapping factors between the two are identified and the precise nature of the overlaps is explained in greater detail.

Findings

The available literature provides firm evidence that the overlapping factors not only serve to ensure the accessibility of a website for all users, but are also useful for the optimization of the website's search engine ranking. The research demonstrates that any SEO project undertaken should include, as a prerequisite, the proper design of accessible web content, inasmuch as search engines will interpret the web accessibility achieved as an indicator of quality and will be able to better access and index the resulting web content.

Originality/value

The present study indicates how developing websites with high visibility in search engine results also makes their content more accessible.
A task‐focused literature recommender system for digital libraries
Authors: Yang Wan‐Shiou , Lin Yi‐Rong
Published: August 2013

Purpose

The scientific literature has played an important role in the dissemination of new knowledge throughout the past century. However, the increasing numbers of scientific articles being published in recent years has intensified the perception of information overload for users attempting to find relevant scientific information. The purpose of this paper is to describe a task‐focused strategy that employs the task profiles of users to make recommendations in a digital library.

Design/method/approach

This paper combines information retrieval, common citation analysis, and coauthor relationship analysis techniques with a citation network analysis technique – the CiteRank algorithm – to find relevant and high‐quality articles. In total, nine variations of the proposed approach were tested using articles downloaded from the CiteSeerX system and usage logs collected from the authors' experimental server.

Findings

The results from the authors' experimental evaluations demonstrate that the proposed Content‐citation approach outperforms the Relevance‐CiteRank, Relevance‐citation count, and Relevance‐only approaches.

Originality/value

This paper describes an original study that has produced a novel way to combine information retrieval, common citation analysis, and coauthor relationship analysis techniques to find relevant and high‐quality articles for recommendation in a digital library.
Kinetic studies of the effect of a 17‐nucleotide difference in the 0.3‐kb region containing the R‐U5‐5′ leader sequence of Friend murine leukemia virus on viral gene expression
Authors: Choo Yeng Cheng , Seki Yohei , Takase‐Yoden Sayaka
Published: August 2013

In addition to the env gene, a 0.3‐kb fragment containing the R‐U5‐5′ leader sequence is essential for the induction of spongiform neurodegeneration by Friend murine leukemia virus (Fr‐MLV) clone A8 and it also influences expression of the Env protein. Kinetic studies were carried out using two recombinant viruses, R7f, carrying the A8 0.3‐kb fragment, and Rec5, carrying the 0.3‐kb fragment of the non‐neuropathogenic Fr‐MLV clone 57. These analyses suggested that the 0.3‐kb fragment influenced the expression level of the Env protein by regulating the amount of spliced env‐mRNA rather than the amount of total viral mRNA or viral production.
Synthesis of ω‐hydroxy dodecanoic acid based on an engineered CYP153A fusion construct
Authors: Scheps Daniel , Honda Malca Sumire , Richter Sven M. , Marisch Karoline , Nestl Bettina M. , Hauer Bernhard
Published: August 2013

A bacterial P450 monooxygenase‐based whole cell biocatalyst using Escherichia coli has been applied in the production of ω‐hydroxy dodecanoic acid from dodecanoic acid (C12‐FA) or the corresponding methyl ester. We have constructed and purified a chimeric protein where the fusion of the monooxygenase CYP153A from Marinobacter aquaeloei to the reductase domain of P450 BM3 from Bacillus megaterium ensures optimal protein expression and efficient electron coupling. The chimera was demonstrated to be functional and three times more efficient than other sets of redox components evaluated. The established fusion protein (CYP153AM. aq.‐CPR) was used for the hydroxylation of C12‐FA in in vivo studies. These experiments yielded 1.2 g l–1 ω‐hydroxy dodecanoic from 10 g l–1 C12‐FA with high regioselectivity (> 95%) for the terminal position. As a second strategy, we utilized C12‐FA methyl ester as substrate in a two‐phase system (5:1 aqueous/organic phase) configuration to overcome low substrate solubility and product toxicity by continuous extraction. The biocatalytic system was further improved with the coexpression of an additional outer membrane transport system (AlkL) to increase the substrate transfer into the cell, resulting in the production of 4 g l–1 ω‐hydroxy dodecanoic acid. We further summarized the most important aspects of the whole‐cell process and thereupon discuss the limits of the applied oxygenation reactions referring to hydrogen peroxide, acetate and P450 concentrations that impact the efficiency of the production host negatively.
Is metagenomics resolving identification of functions in microbial communities?
Authors: Chistoserdova Ludmila
Published: August 2013

We are coming up on the tenth anniversary of the broad use of the method involving whole metagenome shotgun sequencing, referred to as metagenomics. The application of this approach has definitely revolutionized microbiology and the related fields, including the realization of the importance of the human microbiome. As such, metagenomics has already provided a novel outlook on the complexity and dynamics of microbial communities that are an important part of the biosphere of the planet. Accumulation of massive amounts of sequence data also caused a surge in the development of bioinformatics tools specially designed to provide pipelines for data analysis and visualization. However, a critical outlook into the field is required to appreciate what could be and what has currently been gained from the massive sequence databases that are being generated with ever‐increasing speed.
SIRT1 but not its increased expression is essential for lifespan extension in caloric‐restricted mice
Authors: Mercken Evi M. , Hu Jia , Krzysik‐Walker Susan , Wei Min , Li Ying , McBurney Michael W. , de Cabo Rafael , Longo Valter D.
Published: August 2013

The SIRT1 deacetylase is one of the best‐studied putative mediators of some of the anti‐aging effects of calorie restriction (CR), but its role in CR‐dependent lifespan extension has not been demonstrated. We previously found that mice lacking both copies of SIRT1 displayed a shorter median lifespan than wild‐type mice on an ad libitum diet. Here, we report that median lifespan extension in CR heterozygote SIRT1+/− mice was identical (51%) to that observed in wild‐type mice, but SIRT1+/− mice displayed a higher frequency of certain pathologies. Although larger studies in additional genetic backgrounds are needed, these results provide strong initial evidence for the requirement of SIRT1 for the lifespan extension effects of CR, but suggest that its high expression is not required for CR‐induced lifespan extension.
Coded police territories: ‘detective software’ investigates
Authors: Paasche Till F
Published: August 2013

Policing literature has shown how the police deal with protests on the street. This paper aims to add another dimension to this work by focusing on the use of radio‐cell analysis and codes in police tactics to identify and single out protesters. Combining the literature on policing with work on codes and software sorting, the paper shows how an algorithm structures and narrows down large datasets on thousands of protesters into a manageable number of suspects whom officers can investigate using the means they have. The case study involves large‐scale anti‐fascist direct actions and blockades in Dresden, Germany, in 2011 that disabled one of Europe's largest fascist demonstrations. Using this example the paper makes two points. First, the police used the radio‐cell grid to create digital kettles to isolate groups of protesters. Radio cells that overlay spaces in which riots or blockades occur become the boundaries of these digital kettles. Every mobile phone user within one of these spaces is automatically subject to further investigation by the algorithm. Second, the algorithm analyses all phone users within a digital kettle according to movement and call patterns. This way, the code identifies a manageable number of individuals out of hundreds of thousands of connectivity data. As opposed to using officers in riot gear, a radio‐cell analysis and the use of codes enable the ‘kettling’ of far larger numbers of protesters, making this tactic an efficient way of dealing with protests and civil disobedience. Empirically, the paper is based on an analysis of minor interpellations dealing with radio‐cell analysis and semi‐structured interviews with key informants.
Changes in CB1 and CB2 receptors in the post‐mortem cerebellum of humans affected by spinocerebellar ataxias
Authors: Rodríguez‐Cueto Carmen , Benito Cristina , Fernández‐Ruiz Javier , Romero Julián , Hernández‐Gálvez Mariluz , Gómez‐Ruiz María
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Spinocerebellar ataxias (SCAs) are a family of chronic progressive neurodegenerative diseases, clinically and genetically heterogeneous, characterized by loss of balance and motor coordination due to degeneration of the cerebellum and its afferent and efferent connections. Unlike other motor disorders, the possible role of changes in the endocannabinoid system in the pathogenesis of SCAs has not been investigated.

Experimental Approach

The status of cannabinoid receptor type 1 (CB1) and cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2) receptors in the post‐mortem cerebellum of SCA patients and controls was investigated using immunohistochemical procedures.

Key Results

Immunoreactivity for the CB1 receptor, and also for the CB2 receptor, was found in the granular layer, Purkinje cells, neurons of the dentate nucleus and areas of white matter in the cerebellum of SCA patients at levels notably higher than controls. Double‐labelling procedures demonstrated co‐localization of CB1 and, in particular, CB2 receptors with calbindin, supporting the presence of these receptors in Purkinje neurons. Both receptors also co‐localized with Iba‐1 and glial fibrillary acidic protein in the granular layer and white matter areas, indicating that they are present in microglia and astrocytes respectively.

Conclusions and Implications

Our results demonstrate that CB1 and CB2 receptor levels are significantly altered in the cerebellum of SCA patients. Their identification in Purkinje neurons, which are the main cells affected in SCAs, as well as the changes they experienced, suggest that alterations in endocannabinoid receptors may be related to the pathogenesis of SCAs. Therefore, the endocannabinoid system could provide potential therapeutic targets for the treatment of SCAs and its progression.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Cannabinoids 2013. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2014.171.issue‐6
17‐β Oestradiol prevents cardiovascular dysfunction in post‐menopausal metabolic syndrome by affecting SIRT1/AMPK/H3 acetylation
Authors: Bendale Dhaval Sharad , Karpe Pinakin Arun , Chhabra Richa , Shete Sachin Prabhakarrao , Shah Heta , Tikoo Kulbhushan
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Oestrogen therapy is known to induce cardioprotection in post‐menopausal metabolic syndrome (PMS). Hence, we investigated the effect of 17‐β oestradiol (E2) on functional responses to angiotensin II and cardiovascular dysfunction in a rat model of PMS.

Experimental Approach

PMS was induced in ovariectomized rats by feeding a high‐fat diet for 10 weeks. Isometric tension responses of aortic rings to angiotensin II were recorded using an isometric force transducer. TUNEL assay and immunoblotting was performed to assess apoptosis and protein expression respectively in PMS.

Key Results

Endothelial dysfunction in PMS was characterized by enhanced angiotensin II‐induced contractile responses and impaired endothelial dependent vasodilatation. This was associated with an increased protein expression of AT1 receptors in the aorta and heart in PMS. PMS induced cardiac apoptosis by activating Bax and PARP protein expression. These changes were associated with a down‐regulation in the expression of silent information regulation 2 homologue (SIRT1)/P‐AMP‐activated PK (AMPK) and increased H3 acetylation in aorta and heart. E2 partially suppressed angiotensin II‐induced contractions, restored the protein expression of SIRT1/P‐AMPK and suppressed H3 acetylation. The role of SIRT1/AMPK was further highlighted by administration of sirtinol and compound C (ex vivo), which enhanced angiotensin II contractile responses and ablated the protective effect of E2 on PMS.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results provide novel mechanisms for PMS‐induced cardiovascular dysfunction involving SIRT1/AMPK/ histone H3 acetylation, which was prevented by E2. The study suggests that therapies targeting SIRT1/AMPK/epigenetic modifications may be beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular disorders.
Therapeutic targeting of NOD1 receptors
Authors: Moreno L , Gatheral T
Published: August 2013

The nucleotide‐binding oligomerization domain 1 (NOD1) protein is an intracellular receptor for breakdown products of peptidoglycan (PGN), an essential bacterial cell wall component. NOD1 responds to γ‐D‐glutamyl‐meso‐diaminopimelic acid, which is an epitope unique to PGN structures from all Gram‐negative bacteria and certain Gram‐positive bacteria. Upon ligand recognition, NOD1 undergoes conformational changes and self‐oligomerization mediated by the nucleotide‐binding NACHT domains, followed by the recruitment and activation of the serine threonine kinase receptor‐interacting protein 2 leading to the activation of NF‐κB and MAPK pathways and induction of inflammatory genes. Much of our knowledge is derived from seminal studies using mice deficient in NOD1 and confirming an essential role for NOD1 in the host immune response against gastrointestinal and respiratory pathogens. In addition, recent studies have revealed a role for intracellular NOD1 receptors in the regulation of vascular inflammation and metabolism. This review will discuss our current understanding of intracellular NOD1 receptors in host immunity and chronic inflammatory disorders with a focus on cardiovascular diseases. Although therapeutic advances may have to wait until the complex interplay with pathogens, danger signals, other pattern recognition receptors and overlapping metabolic pathways is further unravelled, the steadily growing body of knowledge suggest that NOD1 antagonism might represent attractive candidate to reduce excessive inflammation associated to intestinal, cardiovascular and metabolic diseases.
Emodin inhibits growth and induces apoptosis in an orthotopic hepatocellular carcinoma model by blocking activation of STAT3
Authors: Subramaniam Aruljothi , Shanmugam Muthu K , Ong Tina H , Li Feng , Perumal Ekambaram , Chen Luxi , Vali Shireen , Abbasi Taher , Kapoor Shweta , Ahn Kwang Seok , Kumar Alan Prem , Hui Kam M , Sethi Gautam
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Aberrant activation of STAT3 is frequently encountered and promotes proliferation, survival, metastasis and angiogenesis in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Here, we have investigated whether emodin mediates its effect through interference with the STAT3 activation pathway in HCC.

Experimental Approach

The effect of emodin on STAT3 activation, associated protein kinases and apoptosis was investigated using various HCC cell lines. Additionally, we also used a predictive tumour technology to analyse the effects of emodin . The in vivo effects of emodin were assessed in an orthotopic mouse model of HCC.

Key Results

Emodin suppressed STAT3 activation in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner in HCC cells, mediated by the modulation of activation of upstream kinases c‐Src, JAK1 and JAK2. Vanadate treatment reversed emodin‐induced down‐regulation of STAT3, suggesting the involvement of a tyrosine phosphatase and emodin induced the expression of the tyrosine phosphatase SHP‐1 that correlated with the down‐regulation of constitutive STAT3 activation. Interestingly, silencing of the SHP‐1 gene by siRNA abolished the ability of emodin to inhibit STAT3 activation. Finally, when administered i.p., emodin inhibited the growth of human HCC orthotopic tumours in male athymic nu/nu mice and STAT3 activation in tumour tissues.

Conclusions and Implications

Emodin mediated its effects predominantly through inhibition of the STAT3 signalling cascade and thus has a particular potential for the treatment of cancers expressing constitutively activated STAT3.
Emerging therapeutic aspects in oncology
Authors: MacEwan David J
Published: August 2013

Cancer remains a peculiarly stubborn disease to treat. Some forms of cancer have seen tremendous advances in the effectiveness of their treatments, whereas other forms have remained resistant to pharmacological control. This lack of hope for success is in part due to the types of drugs that are used in the clinic, and the targeted biological system being based purely on cellular growth rates. However, recent drugs designed to affect specific signalling pathways or proteins have been showing much success. Thanks to the ingenuity of pharmacologists in understanding and targeting these processes, there have been real improvements in treatment. Here we are presented with some of the research into such critical systems that have to be understood, so that they can be conquered. We will also look at the challenges facing cancer pharmacologists and what the field may present to us all in the future.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Emerging Therapeutic Aspects in Oncology. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2013.169.issue‐8
Antagonism of endogenous nociceptin/orphanin FQ inhibits infarction‐associated ventricular arrhythmias via PKC‐dependent mechanism in rats
Authors: Han Y , Guo Z , Wang L L , Zhang L Z , Yao T P
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Evidence indicates nociceptin/orphanin FQ (N/OFQ) may participate in the pathology of cardiac arrhythmias associated with myocardial infarction. But the role of N/OFQ in the arrhythmogenesis in acute myocardial infarction is unclear. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of endogenous N/OFQ on infarction‐associated arrhythmias.

Experimental Approach

The expression of N/OFQ, PKC activity and ventricular arrhythmias in presence and absence of UFP‐101, a specific antagonist of N/OFQ receptor, were examined following permanent coronary artery occlusion in anaesthetized rats. The effect of N/OFQ on action potential duration was examined in isolated rat cardiomyocytes.

Key Results

It was observed that N/OFQ was increased by 41% in the myocardium after coronary artery occlusion (P < 0.01 vs. control). Pretreatment with UFP‐101 (10−7 mol·kg−1, i.v.) reduced the incidence of ventricular ectopic beats by 70% and ventricular tachycardia by 51% respectively (all P < 0.05 vs. control). Meanwhile, PKC activity was elevated in the rats treated with UFP‐101 (by 35%, P < 0.05 vs. control). A selective PKC inhibitor, calphostin C, completely abolished the anti‐arrhythmic effects of UFP‐101 (P < 0.01). N/OFQ (at 10−11, 10−9 and 1 × 10−7 mol·L−1) shortened the action potential duration by 3% (P > 0.05), 10% (P < 0.05) and 22% (P < 0.01), respectively, via N/OFQ receptor.

Conclusions and Implications

Antagonism of endogenous N/OFQ produces anti‐arrhythmic effects on ventricular arrhythmias in acute myocardial infarction, possibly via modulating PKC activity and action potential of myocytes.
Evaluation of the potential of the phytocannabinoids, cannabidivarin (CBDV) and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), to produce CB1 receptor inverse agonism symptoms of nausea in rats
Authors: Rock Erin M , Sticht Martin A , Duncan Marnie , Stott Colin , Parker Linda A
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

The cannabinoid 1 (CB1) receptor inverse agonists/antagonists, rimonabant (SR141716, SR) and AM251, produce nausea and potentiate toxin‐induced nausea by inverse agonism (rather than antagonism) of the CB1 receptor. Here, we evaluated two phytocannabinoids, cannabidivarin (CBDV) and Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), for their ability to produce these behavioural effect characteristics of CB1 receptor inverse agonism in rats.

Experimental Approach

In experiment 1, we investigated the potential of THCV and CBDV to produce conditioned gaping (measure of nausea‐induced behaviour) in the same manner as SR and AM251. In experiment 2, we investigated the potential of THCV and CBDV to enhance conditioned gaping produced by a toxin in the same manner as CB1 receptor inverse agonists.

Key Results

SR (10 and 20 mg·kg−1) and AM251 (10 mg·kg−1) produced conditioned gaping; however, THCV (10 or 20 mg·kg−1) and CBDV (10 or 200 mg·kg−1) did not. At a subthreshold dose for producing nausea, SR (2.5 mg·kg−1) enhanced lithium chloride (LiCl)‐induced conditioned gaping, whereas Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol (THC, 2.5 and 10 mg·kg−1), THCV (2.5 or 10 mg·kg−1) and CBDV (2.5 or 200 mg·kg−1) did not; in fact, THC (2.5 and 10 mg·kg−1), THCV (10 mg·kg−1) and CBDV (200 mg·kg−1) suppressed LiCl‐induced conditioned gaping, suggesting anti‐nausea potential.

Conclusions and Implications

The pattern of findings indicates that neither THCV nor CBDV produced a behavioural profile characteristic of CB1 receptor inverse agonists. As well, these compounds may have therapeutic potential in reducing nausea.
Drugs or diet? – Developing novel therapeutic strategies targeting the free fatty acid family of GPCRs
Authors: Dranse H J , Kelly M E M , Hudson B D
Published: August 2013

Free fatty acids (FFAs) are metabolic intermediates that may be obtained through the diet, synthesized endogenously, or produced via fermentation of carbohydrates by gut microbiota. In addition to serving as an important source of energy, FFAs are known to produce a variety of both beneficial and detrimental effects on metabolic and inflammatory processes. While historically, FFAs were believed to produce these effects only through intracellular targets such as peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptors, it has now become clear that FFAs are also agonists for several GPCRs, including a family of four receptors now termed FFA1‐4. Increasing evidence suggests that FFA1‐4 mediate many of the beneficial properties of FFAs and not surprisingly, this has generated significant interest in the potential of these receptors as therapeutic targets for the treatment of a variety of metabolic and inflammatory disorders. In addition to the traditional strategy of developing small‐molecule therapeutics targeting these receptors, there has also been some consideration given to alternate therapeutic approaches, specifically by manipulating endogenous FFA concentrations through alteration of either dietary intake, or production by gut microbiota. In this review, the current state of knowledge for FFA1‐4 will be discussed, together with their potential as therapeutic targets in the treatment of metabolic and inflammatory disorders. In particular, the evidence in support of small molecule versus dietary and microbiota‐based therapeutic approaches will be considered to provide insight into the development of novel multifaceted strategies targeting the FFA receptors for the treatment of metabolic and inflammatory disorders.
Angiotensin II type 1a receptor signalling directly contributes to the increased arrhythmogenicity in cardiac hypertrophy
Authors: Yasuno Shinji , Kuwahara Koichiro , Kinoshita Hideyuki , Yamada Chinatsu , Nakagawa Yasuaki , Usami Satoru , Kuwabara Yoshihiro , Ueshima Kenji , Harada Masaki , Nishikimi Toshio , Nakao Kazuwa
Published: August 2013

Background and Purpose

Angiotensin II has been implicated in the development of various cardiovascular ailments, including cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure. The fact that inhibiting its signalling reduced the incidences of both sudden cardiac death and heart failure in several large‐scale clinical trials suggests that angiotensin II is involved in increased cardiac arrhythmogenicity during the development of heart failure. However, because angiotensin II also promotes structural remodelling, including cardiomyocyte hypertrophy and cardiac fibrosis, it has been difficult to assess its direct contribution to cardiac arrhythmogenicity independently of the structural effects.

Experimental Approach

We induced cardiac hypertrophy in wild‐type (WT) and angiotensin II type 1a receptor knockout (AT1aR‐KO) mice by transverse aortic constriction (TAC). The susceptibility to ventricular tachycardia (VT) assessed in an in vivo electrophysiological study was compared in the two genotypes. The effect of acute pharmacological blockade of AT1R on the incidences of arrhythmias was also assessed.

Key Results

As described previously, WT and AT1aR‐KO mice with TAC developed cardiac hypertrophy to the same degree, but the incidence of VT was much lower in the latter. Moreover, although TAC induced an increase in tyrosine phosphorylation of connexin 43, a critical component of gap junctional channels, and a reduction in ventricular levels of connexin 43 protein in both genotypes, the effect was significantly ameliorated in AT1aR‐KO mice. Acute pharmacological blockade of AT1R also reduced the incidence of arrhythmias.

Conclusions and Implications

Our findings demonstrate that AT1aR‐mediated signalling makes a direct contribution to the increase in arrhythmogenicity in hypertrophied hearts independently of structural remodelling.
Southwest Barents Sea rift basin evolution: comparing results from backstripping and time‐forward modelling
Authors: Clark S. A. , Glorstad‐Clark E. , Faleide J. I. , Schmid D. , Hartz E. H. , Fjeldskaar W.
Published: August 2013

We present tectonic models of progressive basin formation in the south‐west Barents Sea derived as part of the PETROBAR project (Petroleum‐related studies of the Barents Sea region). The basin architecture developed as a multi‐stage rift preceding the creation of the sheared/transtensional margin conjugate to NE Greenland. N‐ to NNE‐striking basins, with sediment thicknesses in places exceeding 15 km, are separated by basement highs. We use two basin analysis approaches, BMT™ backstripping and TecMod™time‐forward modelling, to determine stretching factors through time along the profile PETROBAR‐07. This 550 km‐long profile derived from wide‐angle reflection/refraction seismic data acquired in 2007, coincident with deep multichannel seismic reflection data. Detailed stratigraphic analysis of the reflection profile, in concert with a dense grid of 2D profiles tied to wells, provides timing and water depth constraint for the models. Velocity analysis of the wide‐angle data provides constraint on the cumulative crustal stretching. The north‐west trending cross‐section extends from continental craton, at the Varanger Peninsula, to within 16 km of the interpreted continent–ocean boundary. Rifting along the profile was episodic, with four distinct phases of basin formation during the Carboniferous, the Late Permian–Triassic, the Late Jurassic–Early Cretaceous and the Late Cretaceous–Eocene. Collectively, the basins exhibit a general trend of younging, narrowing, and deepening oceanward, suggesting a gradual focusing of rifting prior to final breakup. Cumulative stretching factors derived from BMT and TecMod correlate well with observed crustal thinning, and the two models provide uncertainty bounds for stretching factors for the separate rift phases. In contrast to orthogonally rifted margins, stretching is relatively minor immediately prior to transform breakup, with greater stretching occurring during earlier rift phases.
From Ethnicity to Race in the Canadian Review of Sociology, 1964 to 2010
Authors: Ramos Howard
Published: August 2013

La Revue canadienne de sociologie a été un forum important pour la recherche sur l'ethnicité et la race. Grâce à une analyse des publications publiés dans la revue entre 1964 et 2010 nous constatons que l'ethnicité a reçu plus d'attention que la race, et que la majorité des publications se sert d'une approche d’économie politique et des méthodes quantitatives. Au fil du temps, nous relevons l'abandon du concept d'ethnicité et la montée de la race et nous relevons moins d’études quantitatives. Ces changements ont lieu en parallèle avec des changements politiques et démographiques au Canada et sont en réponse aux iniquités raciales.

The Canadian Review of Sociology has been an important venue for scholarship on ethnicity and race. Through an analysis of publications dealing with both terms in the journal, between 1964 and 2010, the paper finds that publications have focused more on ethnicity than race, using a political economy approach, and quantitative methods. Over time, significant changes have occurred, including a move away from ethnicity to race and a move away from quantitative methods. Many of these changes have occurred in conjunction with policy and demographic changes in Canada and as a response to ongoing racial inequities.
The Boss: Conspicuous Invisibility in Ho Chi Minh City
Authors: HARMS ERIK
Published: August 2013

This article introduces the figure of the Vietnamese boss, (ông chủ), in this case, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of a Ho Chi Minh City securities trading company. The boss's body techniques, lifestyle choices, and movement through different spaces in the city offer a view into the “everyday presentation of wealth” among business leaders who drive much of the economic transformation in contemporary Vietnam. In order to illuminate how the figure speaks to a particular moment in Vietnam's great urban transformation, the essay describes practices of “conspicuous invisibility” through which the boss manages what can and cannot be seen about his wealth. As a figure, the boss stands out against the background of economic privatization, the emergence of a stock market, rapid urbanization, and the changing moral valuation of those who accumulate wealth. The article also suggests that conspicuous invisibility both produces and is produced by new kinds of urban spaces. [Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, Saigon, New Urban Zones, elites].
Multicenter study on endoscopic ultrasound‐guided expandable biliary metal stent placement: Choice of access route, direction of stent insertion, and drainage route
Authors: Dhir Vinay , Artifon Everson L. A. , Gupta Kapil , Vila Juan J. , Maselli Roberta , Frazao Mariana , Maydeo Amit
Published: August 2013

Background and Aim

Endoscopic ultrasonography‐guided biliary drainage (EUS‐BD) using expandable biliary metal stents has emerged as an acceptable alternative in patients with failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for malignant biliary obstruction. However, there is no consensus over the preferred access route (transhepatic or extrahepatic), direction of stent insertion (antegrade or retrograde) or drainage route (transluminal or transpapillary) in patients potentially suitable for multiple methods. The present study compares success and complication rates in patients undergoing EUS‐BD via different methods.

Methods

This was a multicenter retrospective analysis. Records of patients who underwent EUS‐BD for malignant obstructive jaundice at four centers were entered in a standard database. Success and complications were compared for different techniques.

Results

Sixty‐eight patients were analyzed. EUS‐BD was successful in 65 patients (95.6%). There was no significant difference in the success rates of different techniques. Complications wereseen in 14 patients (20.6%) and mortality in three patients (4.4%). Complications were significantly higher for the transhepatic route compared to the transduodenal route (30.5% vs 9.3%, P = 0.03). There was no significant difference in complication rates among transluminal and transpapillary stent placements, or direct and rendezvous stenting. Logistic regression analysis showed transhepatic access to be the only independent risk factor for complications (P = 0.031, t = 2.2).

Conclusion

EUS‐BD can be carried out with high success rates regardless of the choice of access route, stent direction or drainage route. However, complications are significantly higher with transhepatic access. The transduodenal route should be chosen for EUS‐guided and rendezvous stent placements, when both routes are available.
Living Together in European Intercultural Schools: the case of the Catalan school system (Spain)
Authors: Molina Fidel , Casado Núria
Published: August 2013

There are practical difficulties in making intercultural education a substantial element of inclusion in both primary and compulsory secondary education in Europe. The Spanish education system and, in particular, the Catalan education system, have developed a series of strategies in response to the new multicultural complexity encountered in both the classroom and society as a whole. In this study, several inclusive attempts of the Catalan education system will be discussed. As a consequence of their analysis, educational models that are compatible with the framework of inclusive education will be presented as an effective means of promoting greater social integration and a peaceful coexistence in the school context.
Limbic encephalitis: a clinical‐radiological comparison between herpetic and autoimmune etiologies
Authors: Oyanguren B. , Sánchez V. , González F. J. , de Felipe A. , Esteban L. , López‐Sendón J. L. , Garcia‐Barragán N. , Martínez‐San Millán J. , Masjuán J. , Corral I.
Published: August 2013

Background

Herpetic (HE) and autoimmune (AE) encephalitis share clinical and radiological features. We compared both types of encephalitis with the aim of making a differential clinical‐radiological pattern.

Materials and methods

All cases with a clinical diagnosis of encephalitis who attended our hospital between 1999 and 2012 were reviewed. We selected those cases with positive polymerase chain reaction for herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1) in the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), and those with antineuronal antibodies or paraneoplastic etiology. We compared epidemiological, clinical, CSF, electroencephalographic and radiological findings.

Results

Twelve patients with positive polymerase chain reaction for HSV‐1, and 10 patients with antineuronal antibody or paraneoplastic etiology were found. The only features found exclusively in one group were the presence of psychiatric symptoms and tumors in AE. Acute onset of symptoms, fever and aphasia were more frequent in HE, which showed higher level of proteins and erythrocyte count in CSF. Neuroimaging was abnormal in all cases of HE, but only in 60% of AE. Insular and diffuse temporal lobe involvement and absence of basal ganglia involvement were more frequent in HE, and mesial temporal involvement in AE. The highest diagnostic values for differentiating HE from AE were the association of acute onset of symptoms and fever (sensitivity 0.92, specificity 1), and the absence of basal ganglia involvement (sensitivity 0.82, specificity 1).

Conclusions

There are few differences between HE and AE. Psychiatric symptoms and association with tumors were unique for AE. Acute onset with fever and absence of basal ganglia involvement in magnetic resonance imaging support a diagnosis of HE.
A commercial foot pump for emergency ventilation of horses, proof‐of‐principle during equine field anaesthesia
Authors: von Ritgen S. , Auer U. , Schramel J. , Moens Y.
Published: August 2013

At present there is no alternative to the use of a demand valve and pressurised oxygen for emergency ventilation in large animal field anaesthesia, therefore we aimed at providing a proof‐of‐principle of a small (2.5 l) commercial foot pump to provide emergency intermittent positive pressure ventilation (IPPV) in large animals. The study was performed during elective field anaesthesia for castration of 5 Haflinger stallions. Horses were premedicated with acepromazine i.m. after catheterisation of the jugular vein, further sedation was obtained with detomidine and butorphanol i.v. Anaesthesia was induced with ketamine and midazolam i.v. and maintained with a constant rate infusion of midazolam, ketamine and xylazine. After endotracheal intubation the foot pump, modified with a manually operated expiratory valve, was connected to the endotracheal tube and oxygen (6 l/min) was supplied. Anaesthesia was monitored using spirometry, respiratory gas analysis, pulse oximetry and arterial blood gas analysis. When arterial partial pressure of carbon dioxide (PaCO2) exceeded 6.65 kPa, IPPV was provided by 2–4 consecutive compressions of the pump aiming at a tidal volume of 10 ml/kg bwt. The PaCO2 was maintained at 6.18 ± 3.06 kPa (mean ± s.d.) with a respiratory rate of 4–10 breaths/min. The tidal volume was 2678–8300 ml with a peak inspiratory pressure of 24 ± 6.6 cmH2O and a mean minute volume of 68.5 ± 13 l/min. Inspired oxygen concentration ranged from 26–46% (36 ± 7%) and arterial partial pressure of oxygen from 8.38–11.03 kPa (10.1 ± 0.93 kPa). The modified foot pump enables the practitioner to provide IPPV to large animals in emergency situations.