bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
For society, state and self: juggling the logics of professionalism in general practice appraisal
Authors: Entwistle Tom , Matthews Elaine
Published: April 2015

Sociologists repeatedly appeal to notions of altruism, bureaucratisation and self interest in their efforts to explain the changing place of the professions in contemporary society. We treat these three readings as institutional logics that are key to understanding the way in which doctors respond to the appraisal system at the heart of the UK's approach to revalidation. Our analysis of a survey of 998 general practitioners (GPs) working in Wales finds an altruistic commitment to learning and improvement, bureaucratic demands for reporting information and self‐regarding resentment of changes in the occupational package provided by general practice. But the data also demonstrate that the maintenance of the appraisal regime is dependent on the preparedness and capacity of individual GPs to do micro‐level institutional work on all fronts.
Report of the Editor‐in‐Chief
Authors: Harvey David
Published: April 2015

Submissions to the Journal continue to increase steadily, with a strong international pattern, while our response times are also improving. The JAE's citation impact factor has declined from the record highs of 2011 & 2012 (1.55 & 1.5) to 0.97. Current data suggest that 2014's score will be little better. Wiley‐Blackwell continue to provide a strong publishing platform with our full archive generating a continuing increase in the number of downloads.
Safety and Efficacy of Antihypertensive Prescription at Emergency Department Discharge
Authors: Brody Aaron , Rahman Tahsin , Reed Brian , Millis Scott , Ference Brian , Flack John M. , Levy Phillip D.
Published: April 2015

Background

Poor blood pressure (BP) control is a primary risk factor for target organ damage in the heart, brain, and kidney. Uncontrolled hypertension is common among emergency department (ED) patients, particularly in underresourced settings, but it is unclear what role ED providers should play in the management of chronic antihypertensive therapy.

Objectives

The objective was to evaluate the safety and efficacy of prescribing antihypertensive therapy from the ED.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of data pooled from two prospective, longitudinal, randomized controlled trials, both of which enrolled ED patients with asymptomatic hypertension. Antihypertensives were prescribed at emergency physician discretion, and this was not related to randomization arm. Demographic data, BP at screening and randomization visit, and data on adverse effects potentially related to antihypertensive therapy were compiled. Means were compared using Student's t‐tests, and proportions were compared using chi‐square tests. The effect of antihypertensive therapy on BP control was further analyzed using multivariable regression modeling controlling for age, race, sex, hypertension history, study cohort, and ED BP.

Results

Data were abstracted for 217 subjects. The median interval from ED visit to randomization was 12 days. Seventy‐six subjects (35%) received one or more prescriptions for antihypertensive therapy. Age, sex, race, hypertension history, and mean duration of hypertension were equivalent between groups. Although mean ED BP was higher among those who received prescriptions, the mean systolic BP (sBP) reduction from ED to randomization was significantly greater (difference = 19 mm Hg, 95% confidence interval = 12 to 26 mm Hg). No patient in either group had an sBP less than 100 mm Hg at randomization. On multiple regression modeling, randomization sBP reduction was independently associated with antihypertensive prescription (p = 0.001). The incidence of adverse effects was equivalent and low in both groups. No new neurological deficits, ischemic events, or life‐threatening anaphylactic reactions were reported in either group.

Conclusions

Prescription of antihypertensive medication from the ED is associated with significantly lower sBP at short‐term outpatient follow‐up. Antihypertensive therapy was not associated with an increased incidence of adverse events, and BP reduction did not exceed potentially harmful levels. Initiation of chronic antihypertensive therapy in the ED is safe and effective and may be a reasonable consideration for at‐risk populations.
Analysing the market–book value relation in large Australian and US firms: implications for fundamental analysis and the market–book ratio
Authors: Clout Victoria J. , Willett Roger
Published: April 2015

This study compares the market–book relation of Australian and US firms using firm‐level dynamic analysis of using annual data for a long‐run period in error correction modelling. This paper contributes to a recent call for alternative ways of estimating Ohlson‐type linear valuation models (Ohlson and Kim, 2015). Log transformations of the data are used in this study to improve the statistical properties of the models. This study contributes to the findings on linear valuation model estimation for long‐run firms. Based on the returns model estimation, we find evidence of a higher level of co‐integration between market and book values for Australian firms.
The decision to outsource risk management services
Authors: Christensen Jacqueline , Kent Pamela
Published: April 2015

We apply transaction cost economics to identify factors influencing companies’ decision to internally generate or outsource risk management services. A unique sample is used which combines publicly available data with private information supplied by 281 Australian listed companies. We find that expenditure on research and development, greater technological uncertainty, more competitive environments, more overseas sales and transaction frequency are associated with less outsourcing of risk management services. Uncertainty due to environmental diversity is associated with more outsourcing of risk management services. Companies that outsource risk management services also have lower staff turnover and provide more specialised training and longer contracts for risk management suppliers.
Preventive management plans recorded by dental therapists and oral health therapists using clinical vignettes for adolescents accessing public oral health services in New South Wales, Australia
Authors: Masoe AV , Blinkhorn AS , Taylor J , Blinkhorn FA
Published: April 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate factors that influence dental therapists and oral health therapists (therapists) plan preventive oral health care for adolescents attending New South Wales public oral health services.

Methods

A cross‐sectional postal survey using two clinical vignettes was used to record the preventive care treatment plans offered by therapists working across 15 New South Wales local health districts. Data were tabulated and chi‐square statistics used in the analysis.

Results

One hundred and seventeen therapists returned questionnaires, giving a 64.6% response rate. The participants highlighted the importance of offering oral hygiene instruction (97.0%), dietary advice (95.0%) and topical fluoride applications (74.0%). Recommended home use products included fluoride toothpaste 5000 ppmF (59.0%) and casein phosphopeptide‐amorphous calcium phosphate plus fluoride (CPP‐ACPF) paste (57.7%). Over 50% used fissure sealants. More respondents (88%) would utilize motivational interviewing strategies for a patient with dental caries concerns; however, only 63% would use this technique for a patient in pain (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Considerable variations were noted in therapists' recommendations for stabilizing and managing dental disease, suggesting a need for clinical directors to consider providing more advice to therapists on the scientific basis of preventing dental caries.
Metformin for the management of gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Singh Kamal P. , Rahimpanah Farhad , Barclay Margot
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Glycaemic control in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) has typically been achieved with diet, exercise and insulin therapy. Controversy exists in the literature about a potential role for metformin.

Methods

A literature review was completed aiming to compare the glycaemic control, maternal and fetal out comes of metformin therapy with insulin. Searches were completed on databases, including Medline, PubMed and ScienceDirect. Seven randomised control trials (RCTs) fit the inclusion criteria, with a total sample size of 1514 women.

Results

The majority of studies found no difference in glycaemic control between metformin and insulin groups. When comparing maternal outcomes, those receiving metformin therapy recorded less maternal weight gain in four studies. A number of studies reported lower rates of neonatal hypoglycaemia, and one reported higher rates of preterm birth in the metformin group. There were no other differences in the recorded maternal and fetal outcomes.

Discussion

The Jadad score for assessing risk of bias for most included studies was either 3 or 4. The criteria for diagnosis of GDM, maternal and neonatal complications varied between studies. Only one study has published follow‐up data, and most are single‐centre trials with relatively small sample sizes.

Conclusion

Though there is a growing body of evidence to suggest a role for metformin in GDM management, further large‐scale, multicentre RCTs are needed before guidelines can be altered.
Prevalence of genital dysplasia after kidney transplantation – a retrospective, non‐interventional study from two centers
Authors: Marschalek Julian , Helmy Samir , Schmidt Alice , Polterauer Stephan , Sobulska Martha , Gyoeri Georg P. , Grimm Christoph
Published: April 2015

Objective

Renal transplant patients are at increased risk for human papillomavirus‐related malignancies of the lower genital tract. Our aim was to describe the incidence of genital dysplasia, assess the most common cervical cancer screening intervals and identify independent risk factors for the development of genital dysplasia in renal transplant patients.

Design

Retrospective, non‐interventional study from two centers.

Setting

Post‐transplant nephrologic follow‐up visit at the Medical University of Vienna and a Viennese teaching hospital.

Population

262 consecutive female renal transplant patients with renal transplant performed between 1980 and 2012 at the Medical University of Vienna.

Methods

Sociodemographic patient characteristics, frequency of gynecological examinations, histo‐ and cytopathological test results were collected.

Main outcome measures

Dysplasia rates in renal transplant patients.

Results

16 patients (6.2%) with genital dysplasia after renal transplant were observed. The 1‐year, 3‐year and 10‐year proportional incidence rates for genital dysplasia in general and cervical dysplasia in particular were 1.3 and 1.3%, 3.3 and 2.7%, and 13.6 and 12.0%, respectively. Patients attended cervical cancer screening on a regular basis once a year in 82.7% of cases. In multivariate analysis re‐transplantation [odds ratio 12.1 (1.5–96.3)], and renal transplant at a young age [odds ratio 0.6 (0.4–0.9)] were identified as independent risk factors for the development of female genital dysplasia.

Conclusions

Female renal transplant patients have an increased risk for the development of genital dysplasia in general and of cervical dysplasia in particular. Within this cohort, women at a young age at the time of transplantation and after re‐transplantation are at highest risk for the development of genital dysplasia.
Maternal mid‐pregnancy lipids and birthweight
Authors: Mudd Lanay M. , Holzman Claudia B. , Evans Rhobert W.
Published: April 2015

Objective

To describe associations between maternal lipids and birthweight and to determine whether pre‐pregnancy body mass index (BMI) modifies these associations.

Design

Cohort study.

Setting

Multiple communities in Michigan, USA.

Population

Participants were a sub‐cohort of women from the multi‐community Pregnancy Outcomes and Community Health (POUCH) study (1998–2004).

Methods

Maternal total cholesterol, high‐density lipoprotein (HDLc), and low‐density lipoprotein (LDLc) cholesterol, and triglycerides were assessed at 16–27 weeks' gestation. Women were classified as having normal (<25 kg/m2) or overweight/obese (≥25 kg/m2) pre‐pregnancy BMI.

Main outcome measures

Sex‐ and gestational‐age‐specific body weight z‐score (BWz).

Results

Regression models examined associations among lipids (low: 1st quartile, referent: middle quartiles, high: 4th quartile) and BWz for the total sample and stratified by pre‐pregnancy BMI. In adjusted analyses (n = 1207), low HDLc was associated with lower BWz (β = −0.23, 95% CI −0.40 to −0.06), whereas high triglycerides were associated with higher BWz (β = 0.23, 95% CI 0.06–0.41). Once stratified by pre‐pregnancy BMI, low total cholesterol was associated with lower BWz in normal BMI women (β = −0.25, 95% CI −0.47 to −0.03), whereas in overweight/obese BMI women, high HDLc was inversely (β = −0.29, 95% CI −0.54 to −0.04) and high triglycerides were directly associated with BWz (β = 0.32, 95% CI 0.07–0.54). Removing women with gestational diabetes/hypertensive disorders did not alter the results.

Conclusions

The associations between maternal lipids and BWz vary by lipid measure and pre‐pregnancy BMI. Future work should examine whether lipids and pre‐pregnancy BMI make unique contributions to the fetal programming of disease.
Combined nerve/muscle/skin biopsy could increase diagnostic sensitivity for vasculitic neuropathy
Authors: Masuda Hiroki , Misawa Sonoko , Arai Kimihito , Oide Takashi , Shibuya Kazumoto , Isose Sagiri , Sekiguchi Yukari , Nasu Saiko , Mitsuma Satsuki , Kuwabara Satoshi
Published: April 2015

Objective

Combined nerve/muscle biopsy is widely carried out to improve the diagnostic sensitivity for vasculitic neuropathy. However, an additional yield of muscle biopsy is modest. Therefore, we investigated whether skin biopsy in combination with nerve/muscle biopsy increases the detection rate of vasculitis.

Methods

A total of 25 combined nerve/muscle/skin biopsy samples from patients with biopsy‐proven necrotizing vasculitis (n = 16) or clinically probable vasculitic neuropathy (n = 9) were reviewed. Specimens from the sural nerve, peroneus brevis muscle and skin were obtained simultaneously by a single incision.

Results

Skin biopsy substantially contributed to diagnosis of vasculitic neuropathy. Additional skin biopsy enhanced diagnostic sensitivity from 88% to 100% in patients with pathologically confirmed vasculitis (n = 16). Vasculitis was detected only in skin specimens from two of the entire cohort (n = 25). There were no complications related to skin collection, such as anastomotic leakage or wound infection.

Conclusion

Combined nerve/muscle/skin biopsy could be a less invasive option to improve the diagnostic sensitivity for vasculitis.
Species–habitat associations and demographic rates of forest trees
Authors: Bin Yue , Spence John , Wu Linfang , Li Buhang , Hao Zhanqing , Ye Wanhui , He Fangliang
Published: April 2015

Niche‐driven effects on demographic processes generated in response to habitat heterogeneity partly shape local distributions of species. Thus, tree distributions are commonly studied in relation to habitat conditions to understand how niche differentiation contributes to species coexistence in forest communities. Many such studies implicitly assume that local abundance reflects habitat suitability, and that abundance is relatively stable over time. We compared models based on abundance with those based on demographic performance for making inferences about habitat association for 287 tree species from three large dynamic plots located in tropical, subtropical and temperate forests. The correlation between the predictions of the abundance‐based models and the demography‐based models varied widely, with correlation coefficients ranging nearly from −1 to 1.This suggests that the two types of models capture different information about species–habitat associations. Demography‐based models evaluate habitat quality by focusing on population processes and thus should be preferred for understanding responses of tree species to habitat conditions, especially when habitat conditions are changing and species–habitat interactions cannot be considered to be at equilibrium.
Diet and trophic niche of the endangered fish Garra ghorensis in three Jordanian populations
Authors: Hamidan Nashat , Jackson Michelle C. , Britton J.R.
Published: April 2015

Garra ghorensis is a small riverine cyprinid fish endemic to the southern Dead Sea that is endangered through habitat loss and invasive species. Here, their diet and trophic niche were assessed in three Jordanian populations: an allopatric population, a population sympatric with native Capoeta damascina and a population sympatric with invasive Oreochromis aureus. Stomach content analyses of samples collected between February 2011 and January 2012 revealed that detritus and algae were prominent food items in their diets, with low dietary contributions of animal material. The most frequent and abundant macro‐invertebrates in intestines were Odonata nymphs and gastropod species. The calculation of trophic niche size from the stomach content data revealed that the niche of G. ghorensis (0.10) was generally smaller than sympatric C. damascina (0.24), with an overlap of 72%, whereas they had a larger trophic niche than sympatric O. aureus (0.20–0.13), with a niche overlap of 54%. These outputs were generally supported by stable isotope analyses of δ13C and δ15N completed on samples collected at the end of the 2011 growth season, although these indicated a greater contribution of animal material to assimilated diet. They also indicated that the trophic niche breadth [as standard ellipse area (SEA)] of C. damascina (4.18‰2) was higher than G. ghorensis (2.48‰2) and overlapped by 26%. For G. ghorensis, their SEA was slightly larger than O. aureus (4.33–4.00‰2), with an overlap of 27%. Although both methods indicated some sharing of food resources between sympatric fishes, there was no evidence suggesting detrimental outcomes for G. ghorensis and thus was not considered as a constraint on the status of their populations.
Augmenting mirror visual feedback‐induced performance improvements in older adults
Authors: Hoff Maike , Kaminski Elisabeth , Rjosk Viola , Sehm Bernhard , Steele Christopher J. , Villringer Arno , Ragert Patrick
Published: April 2015

Previous studies have indicated that age‐related behavioral alterations are not irreversible but are subject to amelioration through specific training interventions. Both training paradigms and non‐invasive brain stimulation (NIBS) can be used to modulate age‐related brain alterations and thereby influence behavior. It has been shown that mirror visual feedback (MVF) during motor skill training improves performance of the trained and untrained hands in young adults. The question remains of whether MVF also improves motor performance in older adults and how performance improvements can be optimised via NIBS. Here, we sought to determine whether anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a‐tDCS) can be used to augment MVF‐induced performance improvements in manual dexterity. We found that older adults receiving a‐tDCS over the right primary motor cortex (M1) during MVF showed superior performance improvements of the (left) untrained hand relative to sham stimulation. An additional control experiment in participants receiving a‐tDCS over the right M1 only (without MVF/motor training of the right hand) revealed no significant behavioral gains in the left (untrained) hand. On the basis of these findings, we propose that combining a‐tDCS with MVF might be relevant for future clinical studies that aim to optimise the outcome of neurorehabilitation.
Development and assessment of a shortened Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE‐55)
Authors: Goodwin Shane W. , Lambrinos Anastasia I. , Ferro Mark A. , Sabaz Mark , Speechley Kathy N.
Published: April 2015

Objective

To develop and validate a shortened version of the Quality of Life in Childhood Epilepsy Questionnaire (QOLCE). A secondary aim was to compare baseline risk factors predicting health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) in children newly diagnosed with epilepsy, as identified using the original and shortened version.

Methods

Data came from the Health‐Related Quality of Life in Children with Epilepsy Study (HERQULES, N = 373), a multicenter prospective cohort study. Principal component analysis reduced the number of items from the original QOLCE, and factor analysis was used to assess the factor structure of the shortened version. Convergent and divergent validity was assessed by correlating the Child Health Questionnaire (CHQ) with the shortened QOLCE. Multiple regression identified risk factors at diagnosis for HRQoL at 24 months.

Results

A four‐factor, higher‐order, 55‐item solution was obtained. A total of 21 items were removed. The final model represents functioning in four dimensions of HRQoL: Cognitive, Emotional, Social, and Physical. The shortened QOLCE demonstrated acceptable fit: Bentler's Comparative Fit Index = 0.944; Tucker‐Lewis Index = 0.942; root mean square approximation = 0.058 (90% CI: 0.056–0.061); weighted root mean square residuals (WRMR) = 1.582, and excellent internal consistency (α = 0.96, subscales α > 0.80). Factor loadings were good (first‐order: λ = 0.66–0.93; higher‐order λ = 0.66–0.85; p < 0.001 for all). The shortened QOLCE scores correlated strongly with similar subscales of the Child Health Questionnaire (ρ = 0.38–0.70) while correlating weakly with dissimilar subscales (ρ = 0.30–0.31). While controlling for HRQoL at diagnosis, predictors for better HRQoL at 24 months were the following: no cognitive problems reported (p = 0.001), better family functioning (p = 0.014), fewer family demands (p = 0.008), with an interaction between baseline HRQoL and cognitive problems (p = 0.011).

Significance

Results offer initial evidence regarding reliability and validity of the proposed 55‐item shortened version of the QOLCE (QOLCE‐55). The QOLCE‐55 produced results on risk factors consistent with those found using the original measure. Given the fewer items, QOLCE‐55 may be a viable option reducing respondent burden when assessing HRQoL in children with epilepsy.
Genomic basis of the differences between cider and dessert apple varieties
Authors: Leforestier Diane , Ravon Elisa , Muranty Hélène , Cornille Amandine , Lemaire Christophe , Giraud Tatiana , Durel Charles‐Eric , Branca Antoine
Published: April 2015

Unraveling the genomic processes at play during variety diversification is of fundamental interest for understanding evolution, but also of applied interest in crop science. It can indeed provide knowledge on the genetic bases of traits for crop improvement and germplasm diversity management. Apple is one of the most important fruit crops in temperate regions, having both great economic and cultural values. Sweet dessert apples are used for direct consumption, while bitter cider apples are used to produce cider. Several important traits are known to differentiate the two variety types, in particular fruit size, biennial versus annual fruit bearing, and bitterness, caused by a higher content in polyphenols. Here, we used an Illumina 8k SNP chip on two core collections, of 48 dessert and 48 cider apples, respectively, for identifying genomic regions responsible for the differences between cider and dessert apples. The genome‐wide level of genetic differentiation between cider and dessert apples was low, although 17 candidate regions showed signatures of divergent selection, displaying either outlier FST values or significant association with phenotypic traits (bitter versus sweet fruits). These candidate regions encompassed 420 genes involved in a variety of functions and metabolic pathways, including several colocalizations with QTLs for polyphenol compounds.
Fatigue life prediction based on equivalent stresses for laser beam welded 6156 Al‐alloy joints under variable amplitude loading
Authors: Liu H. , Shang D.‐G. , Liu J.‐Z. , Guo Z.‐K.
Published: April 2015

In the present work, a simple fatigue life prediction approach is proposed using fracture mechanics for laser beam welded Al‐alloy joints under variable amplitude loading. In the proposed approach, variable amplitude loading sequence is transformed into an equivalent constant amplitude loading using the root mean square model. The crack growth driving force K* is chosen to describe the fatigue crack growth rate. The influences of residual stress and its relaxation on fatigue life are taken into account in the proposed approach. The fatigue lives are also predicted using the traditional approach based on the S‐N curves and the rainflow counting method. The predicted results show that the proposed approach is better than the traditional approach.
Value for Money and Audit Practice in the UK Public Sector
Authors: Alwardat Yousef Ali , Benamraoui Abdelhafid , Rieple Alison
Published: April 2015

This paper uses both role theory and audit expectations gap theory to critically evaluate the ability of Value for Money (VfM) audit procedures to improve performance in UK public sector organisations. Our paper reports on an empirical study of 17 auditors and 22 representatives of VfM client organisations. The results show that although the VfM audit plays a part in enhancing the institutional performance of the public sector, much of the audit's practices have not been institutionalised in the audited bodies as had previously been assumed. Questions were raised about the relevance of the auditors' experience and knowledge of the audited body's activities. Our results also indicate significant role conflicts in the VfM process. Three types of conflict could be identified: (a) conflict between the VfM auditors' roles and their own professional values and standards (person‐role conflict); (b) conflict between the VfM auditors' capabilities and their role requirements (role overload), and (c) conflict between the auditors and the auditees (inter‐sender conflict).
ICARUSS, the Integrated Care for the Reduction of Secondary Stroke Trial: Rationale and Design of a Randomized Controlled Trial of a Multimodal Intervention to Prevent Recurrent Stroke in Patients with a Recent Cerebrovascular Event, ACTRN = 12611000264987
Authors: Joubert J. , Davis S. M. , Hankey G. J. , Levi C. , Olver J. , Gonzales G. , Donnan G. A.
Published: April 2015

Background

The majority of strokes, both ischaemic and haemorrhagic, are attributable to a relatively small number of risk factors which are readily manageable in primary care setting. Implementation of best-practice recommendations for risk factor management is calculated to reduce stroke recurrence by around 80%. However, risk factor management in stroke survivors has generally been poor at primary care level. A model of care that supports long-term effective risk factor management is needed.

Aim

To determine whether the model of Integrated Care for the Reduction of Recurrent Stroke (ICARUSS) will, through promotion of implementation of best-practice recommendations for risk factor management reduce the combined incidence of stroke, myocardial infarction and vascular death in patients with recent stroke or transient ischaemic attack (TIA) of the brain or eye.

Design

A prospective, Australian, multicentre, randomized controlled trial.

Setting

Academic stroke units in Melbourne, Perth and the John Hunter Hospital, New South Wales.

Subjects

1000 stroke survivors recruited as from March 2007 with a recent (<3 months) stroke (ischaemic or haemorrhagic) or a TIA (brain or eye).

Randomization

Randomization and data collection are performed by means of a central computer generated telephone system (IVRS).

Intervention

Exposure to the ICARUSS model of integrated care or usual care.

Primary outcome

The composite of stroke, MI or death from any vascular cause, whichever occurs first.

Secondary outcomes

Risk factor management in the community, depression, quality of life, disability and dementia.

Statistical power

With 1000 patients followed up for a median of one-year, with a recurrence rate of 7–10% per year in patients exposed to usual care, the study will have at least 80% power to detect a significant reduction in primary end-points

Conclusion

The ICARUSS study aims to recruit and follow up patients between 2007 and 2013 and demonstrate the effectiveness of exposure to the ICARUSS model in stroke survivors to reduce recurrent stroke or vascular events and promote the implementation of best practice risk factor management at primary care level.
Joining UNISON: does the reform of a union organising strategy change how members perceive their recruitment?
Authors: Waddington Jeremy , Kerr Allan
Published: April 2015

Drawing on survey evidence collected between 2001 and 2012, this article examines whether changes in the organising approach of UNISON were reflected in changes in the routes of entry of new members into the union. The article shows that shifts in UNISON policy were marginal to the pattern of entry into the union. The implications of these findings for the concept and implementation of organising are subsequently reviewed.
Immuno‐modification of enhancing stem cells targeting for myocardial repair
Authors: Yu Jiashing , Wu Yuan‐Kun , Gu Yiping , Fang Qizhi , Sievers Richard , Ding Chun‐Hua , Olgin Jeffrey E , Lee Randall J
Published: April 2015

Despite the controversy in mechanism, rodent and clinical studies have demonstrated beneficial effects of stem/progenitor cell therapy after myocardial infarction (MI). In a rat ischaemic reperfusion MI model, we investigated the effects of immunomodification of CD 34+ cells on heart function and myocardial conduction. Bispecific antibody (BiAb), consisting of an anti‐myosin light chain antibody and anti‐CD45 antibody, injected intravenously was used to direct human CD34+ cells to injured myocardium. Results were compared to echocardiography guided intramyocardial (IM) injection of CD34+ cells and PBS injected intravenously. Treatment was administered 2 days post MI. Echocardiography was performed at 5 weeks and 3 months which demonstrated LV dilatation prevention and fractional shortening improvement in both the BiAb and IM injection approaches, with BiAb achieving better results. Histological analyses demonstrated a decrease in infarct size and increase in arteriogenesis in both BiAb and IM injection. Electrophysiological properties were studied 5 weeks after treatments by optical mapping. Conduction velocity (CV), action potential duration (APD) and rise time were significantly altered in the MI area. The BiAb treated group demonstrated a more normalized activation pattern of conduction and normalization of CV at shorter pacing cycle lengths. The ventricular tachycardia inducibility was lowest in the BiAb treatment group. Intravenous administration of BiAb offers an effective means of stem cell delivery for myocardial repair post‐acute MI. Such non‐invasive approach was shown to offer a distinct advantage to more invasive direct IM delivery.
Cultivation and Characterisation of New Species of Apusomonads (the Sister Group to Opisthokonts), Including Close Relatives of Thecamonas (Chelonemonas n. gen.)
Authors: Heiss Aaron A. , Lee Won J. , Ishida Ken‐ichiro , Simpson Alastair G. B.
Published: April 2015

Apusomonads comprise an understudied and undersampled group of heterotrophic flagellates that is closely related to opisthokonts, the supergroup containing animals and fungi. We cultured representatives of a new clade of apusomonads, Chelonemonas n. gen., which is sister to marine forms of Thecamonas in SSU rRNA gene phylogenies. Scanning electron microscopy shows that members of Chelonemonas have a hexagonal patterning to their submembranous pellicle, which is not known to exist in other apusomonads. We propose that the subfamily Thecamonadinae refer to the marine Thecamonas/Chelonomonas clade. We also report two new strains of Multimonas, one of which is genetically divergent from previously described strains, and here described as a new species, Multimonas koreensis. Both strains of Multimonas have appendages on their dorsal surface that could be extrusomes, and a frilled appearance to the border of their pellicle. Explorations of taxon sampling in SSU rRNA gene phylogenies confirm the new strains' evolutionary affinities, but do not resolve relationships among the five main apusomonad clades. These phylogenies also separate the freshwater species “Thecamonas” oxoniensis from the marine members of the genus Thecamonas. The new strains described here may provide valuable genetic and morphological data for evaluating the relationships and evolution of apusomonads.
Morphological abnormalities in elasmobranchs
Authors: Moore A. B. M.
Published: April 2015

A total of 10 abnormal free‐swimming (i.e. post‐birth) elasmobranchs are reported from The (Persian–Arabian) Gulf, encompassing five species and including deformed heads, snouts, caudal fins and claspers. The complete absence of pelvic fins in a milk shark Rhizoprionodon acutus may be the first record in any elasmobranch. Possible causes, including the extreme environmental conditions and the high level of anthropogenic pollution particular to The Gulf, are briefly discussed.
Macrophages treated with particulate matter PM2.5 induce selective neurotoxicity through glutaminase‐mediated glutamate generation
Authors: Liu Fang , Huang Yunlong , Zhang Fang , Chen Qiang , Wu Beiqing , Rui Wei , Zheng Jialin C. , Ding Wenjun
Published: April 2015

Exposure to atmospheric particulate matter PM2.5 (aerodynamic diameter ≤ 2.5 μm) has been epidemiologically associated with respiratory illnesses. However, recent data have suggested that PM2.5 is able to infiltrate into circulation and elicit a systemic inflammatory response. Potential adverse effects of air pollutants to the central nervous system (CNS) have raised concerns, but whether PM2.5 causes neurotoxicity remains unclear. In this study, we have demonstrated that PM2.5 impairs the tight junction of endothelial cells and increases permeability and monocyte transmigration across endothelial monolayer in vitro, indicating that PM2.5 is able to disrupt blood–brain barrier integrity and gain access to the CNS. Exposure of primary neuronal cultures to PM2.5 resulted in decrease in cell viability and loss of neuronal antigens. Furthermore, supernatants collected from PM2.5‐treated macrophages and microglia were also neurotoxic. These macrophages and microglia significantly increased extracellular levels of glutamate following PM2.5 exposure, which were negatively correlated with neuronal viability. Pre‐treatment with NMDA receptor antagonist MK801 alleviated neuron loss, suggesting that PM2.5 neurotoxicity is mediated by glutamate. To determine the potential source of excess glutamate production, we investigated glutaminase, the main enzyme for glutamate generation. Glutaminase was reduced in PM2.5‐treated macrophages and increased in extracellular vesicles, suggesting that PM2.5 induces glutaminase release through extracellular vesicles. In conclusion, these findings indicate PM2.5 as a potential neurotoxic factor, crucial to understanding the effects of air pollution on the CNS.

image

We propose the following cascade of events for PM2.5‐induced neurotoxicity: PM2.5 is inhalable and able to infiltrate into circulation. Circulating PM2.5 impairs tight junction of endothelial cells, disrupts blood–brain barrier integrity, and gains access to the central nervous system. PM2.5 induces neuronal injury directly or through macrophages and microglia by the elevated production of glutamate. The discovery of this cascade of events supports an adverse effect of air pollution on the central nervous system.
Novel splice variants in the 5'UTR of Gtf2i expressed in the rat brain: alternative 5'UTRs and differential expression in the neuronal dendrites
Authors: Shirai Yoshinori , Watanabe Masahiko , Sakagami Hiroyuki , Suzuki Tatsuo
Published: April 2015

General transcription factor II‐I (Gtf2i) is a transcription factor and one of the genes implicated in Willams–Beuren syndrome, an autism spectrum disorder. In this study, we investigated splice variants of the Gtf2i gene in both the 5'untranslated region (5'UTR) and the coding region. To search for novel 5'UTRs of Gtf2i, we utilized the cap analysis gene expression database of the mouse. We identified seven novel Gtf2i transcripts with alternatively spliced 5'UTRs in the rat brain. We also identified four novel splice variants in the coding sequence of Gtf2i. Furthermore, we identified a selective usage of certain types of 5'UTR by coding variants. In situ hybridization demonstrated a differential pattern of expression of Gtf2i mRNAs with alternatively spliced 5'UTRs among neuronal cells, and the localization of one of the variants in neuronal dendrites in the rat brain. Immunohistochemistry also demonstrated a distribution of Gtf2i‐immunoreactivity in the dendrites. These results suggest multiple pathways of expression of Gtf2i gene in the brain. The expression patterns may be under the control of alternative promoters coupled to the alternative splicing in the coding region. Differential localization of mRNA to neuronal dendrites suggests spatiotemporal‐specific translation at the post‐synaptic sites that is involved in transfer of synaptic activity to expression of specific sets of genes in the nucleus.

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Gtf2i is a transcription factor and implicated in Willams–Beuren syndrome. We identified seven novel Gtf2i transcripts with alternatively spliced 5'UTRs in the rat brain. In situ hybridization demonstrated a differential expression of Gtf2i mRNAs with different 5'UTRs in somas and dendrites of neuronal cells. Differential localization of mRNA to neuronal dendrites suggests spatiotemporal‐specific translation at the postsynaptic sites. The scheme shows genomic structure showing the positions of the potential transcription start tags (rDEC695, rDEC3D7, rDEC1D3, rDEC104, rDEC072 and rDEBE25). Newly identified exons (1.1–1.6) are shown with the white boxes. The distances from rDEC695‐5'end are indicated in bp.
NCK is critical for the development of deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) sensitive spinal circuits
Authors: Lane Ciaran , Qi Jiansong , Fawcett James P.
Published: April 2015

As our understanding of motor circuit function increases, our need to understand how circuits form to ensure proper function becomes increasingly important. Recently, deleted in colorectal cancer (DCC) has been shown to be important in the development of spinal circuits necessary for gait. Importantly, humans with mutation in DCC show mirror movement disorders pointing to the significance of DCC in the development of spinal circuits for coordinated movement. Although DCC binds a number of ligands, the intracellular signaling cascade leading to the aberrant spinal circuits remains unknown. Here, we show that the non‐catalytic region of tyrosine kinase adaptor (NCK) proteins 1 and 2 are distributed in the developing spinal cord. Using dissociated dorsal spinal neuron cultures we show that NCK proteins are necessary for the outgrowth and growth cone architecture of DCC+ve dorsal spinal neurons. Consistent with a role for NCK in DCC signaling, we show that loss of NCK proteins leads to a reduction in the thickness of TAG1+ve commissural bundles in the floor plate and loss of DCC mRNA in vivo. We suggest that DCC signaling functions through NCK1 and NCK2 and that both proteins are necessary for the establishment of normal spinal circuits necessary for gait.

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Reduction in NCK proteins in the developing CNS leads to a reduction in TAG1+ve commissural tract thickness, a reduction in growth cone complexity of DCC+ve spinal interneurons, and a reduction in DCC mRNA. These are consistent with an in vivo role for NCK in the development of critical DCC spinal circuits, and may be important for the normal development of spinal circuits critical for walking.
Extracellular matrix production by nucleus pulposus and bone marrow stem cells in response to altered oxygen and glucose microenvironments
Authors: Naqvi Syeda M. , Buckley Conor T.
Published: April 2015

Bone marrow (BM) stem cells may be an ideal source of cells for intervertebral disc (IVD) regeneration. However, the harsh biochemical microenvironment of the IVD may significantly influence the biological and metabolic vitality of injected stem cells and impair their repair potential. This study investigated the viability and production of key matrix proteins by nucleus pulposus (NP) and BM stem cells cultured in the typical biochemical microenvironment of the IVD consisting of altered oxygen and glucose concentrations. Culture‐expanded NP cells and BM stem cells were encapsulated in 1.5% alginate and ionically crosslinked to form cylindrical hydrogel constructs. Hydrogel constructs were maintained under different glucose concentrations (1, 5 and 25 mM) and external oxygen concentrations (5 and 20%). Cell viability was measured using the Live/Dead® assay and the production of sulphated glycosaminoglycans (sGAG), and collagen was quantified biochemically and histologically. For BM stem cells, IVD‐like micro‐environmental conditions (5 mM glucose and 5% oxygen) increased the accumulation of sGAG and collagen. In contrast, low glucose conditions (1 mM glucose) combined with 5% external oxygen concentration promoted cell death, inhibiting proliferation and the accumulation of sGAG and collagen. NP‐encapsulated alginate constructs were relatively insensitive to oxygen concentration or glucose condition in that they accumulated similar amounts of sGAG under all conditions. Under IVD‐like microenvironmental conditions, NP cells were found to have a lower glucose consumption rate compared with BM cells and may in fact be more suitable to adapt and sustain the harsh microenvironmental conditions. Considering the highly specialised microenvironment of the central NP, these results indicate that IVD‐like concentrations of low glucose and low oxygen are critical and influential for the survival and biological behaviour of stem cells. Such findings may promote and accelerate the translational research of stem cells for the treatment of IVD degeneration.
Resilience training in the workplace from 2003 to 2014: A systematic review
Authors: Robertson Ivan T. , Cooper Cary L. , Sarkar Mustafa , Curran Thomas
Published: April 2015

Over a decade of research attests to the importance of resilience in the workplace for employee well‐being and performance. Yet, surprisingly, there has been no attempt to synthesize the evidence for the efficacy of resilience training in this context. The purpose of this study, therefore is to provide a systematic review of work‐based resilience training interventions. Our review identified 14 studies that investigated the impact of resilience training on personal resilience and four broad categories of dependent variables: (1) mental health and subjective well‐being outcomes, (2) psychosocial outcomes, (3) physical/biological outcomes, and (4) performance outcomes. Findings indicated that resilience training can improve personal resilience and is a useful means of developing mental health and subjective well‐being in employees. We also found that resilience training has a number of wider benefits that include enhanced psychosocial functioning and improved performance. Due to the lack of coherence in design and implementation, we cannot draw any firm conclusions about the most effective content and format of resilience training. Therefore, going forward, it is vital that future research uses comparative designs to assess the utility of different training regimes, explores whether some people might benefit more/less from resilience training, and demonstrates consistency in terms of how resilience is defined, conceptualized, developed, and assessed.

Practitioner points

Despite conceptual and theoretical support for resilience training, the empirical evidence is tentative, with the exception of a large effect for mental health and subjective well‐being outcomes.

Most programmes utilize a cognitive‐behavioural approach to developing resilience.

At this stage, there is no definitive evidence for the most effective training content or format, but it would appear wise to include an element of one‐to‐one training and support based on individual needs.
Melatonin delays leaf senescence and enhances salt stress tolerance in rice
Authors: Liang Chengzhen , Zheng Guangyong , Li Wenzhen , Wang Yiqin , Hu Bin , Wang Hongru , Wu Hongkai , Qian Yangwen , Zhu Xin‐Guang , Tan Dun‐Xian , Chen Shou‐Yi , Chu Chengcai
Published: April 2015

Melatonin, an antioxidant in both animals and plants, has been reported to have beneficial effects on the aging process. It was also suggested to play a role in extending longevity and enhancing abiotic stress resistance in plant. In this study, we demonstrate that melatonin acts as a potent agent to delay leaf senescence and cell death in rice. Treatments with melatonin significantly reduced chlorophyll degradation, suppressed the transcripts of senescence‐associated genes, delayed the leaf senescence, and enhanced salt stress tolerance. Genome‐wide expression profiling by RNA sequencing reveals that melatonin is a potent free radical scavenger, and its exogenous application results in enhanced antioxidant protection. Leaf cell death in noe1, a mutant with over‐produced H2O2, can be relieved by exogenous application of melatonin. These data demonstrate that melatonin delays the leaf senescence and cell death and also enhances abiotic stress tolerance via directly or indirectly counteracting the cellular accumulation of H2O2.
Seclusion as a necessary vs. an appropriate intervention: a vignette study among mental health nurses
Authors: Mann‐Poll P. S. , Smit A. , Koekkoek B. , Hutschemaekers G.
Published: April 2015

Accessible summary

The use of seclusion is either based on the necessity of its use or on the appropriateness. Factors of influence on both decisions are unclear.

In a vignette study, mental health nurses were asked to score vignettes on a necessity and an appropriateness Likert scale.

Although seclusion was scored significantly higher on necessity, factors of influence and underpinning patterns were shown largely the same.

According to the theory of Festinger, focusing on a greater discrepancy between necessity and appropriateness is seen as a necessary condition to achieve a reduction in the use of seclusion.

In a vignette study, mental health nurses were asked to score vignettes on necessity and appropriateness using a Likert scale. Sixty‐nine clinical nurses from four mental health institutes scored 64 vignettes on necessity (there is no alternative) and appropriateness (seclusion supports patients' treatment) of seclusion simultaneously. Data analysis focused on the differences between both scores, and included general linear model analysis, t‐test statistics and Kendall's tau. The t‐test resulted in a significantly higher score on necessity than on appropriateness. Differences between both scores could be explained for 32% by a combination of nurse characteristics and vignette variables. Necessity and appropriateness were found to be strongly associated with each other, showing that underpinning patterns were largely the same. This research enhances the understanding of underlying factors that influence the decision of nurses to use seclusion. This is essential for the development of interventions aimed at the reduction of seclusion use in mental health practice.