bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Escherichia coli cell cycle control genes affect chromosome superhelicity
Authors: Weitao Tao , Nordström Kurt , Dasgupta Santanu
Published: December 2013

We have used ethidium bromide titration for direct measurement of the changes in the negative supercoiling of Escherichia coli chromosome caused by mutations inactivating the cell cycle functions mukB and seqA. The amounts of the intercalative agent required to relax the supercoiled chromosome in mukB and seqA mutants were lower and higher, respectively, than for the wild‐type parent, confirming that these cell cycle genes modulate the topology of the E. coli chromosome. Plasmid superhelicity measured in these mutant strains showed similar effects albeit of reduced magnitude. As the effects of mukB and seqA mutations were not restricted to the chromosome alone, MukB and SeqA proteins possibly interact with factors involved in the maintenance of intracellular DNA topology. To our knowledge, this is the first direct demonstration of the influence of mukB and seqA genes on the superhelicity of the E. coli chromosome.
APC‐mediated downregulation of β‐catenin activity involves nuclear sequestration and nuclear export
Authors: Neufeld Kristi L , Zhang Fang , Cullen Bryan R , White Raymond L
Published: December 2013

Mutational inactivation of adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) initiates most colon carcinomas. APC functions include targeting cytoplasmic β‐catenin, a Wnt pathway mediator, for proteolysis. Although APC shuttles between cytoplasm and nucleus, the role of nuclear APC protein, particularly with respect to nuclear β‐catenin levels and activity, remains unclear. Here, we demonstrate that APC lacking functional nuclear localization signals (NLSs) or nuclear export signals (NESs) does not effectively downregulate nuclear β‐catenin levels; neither does wild‐type APC when nuclear export is blocked. While APC bearing mutated NLSs could not downregulate β‐catenin‐mediated transcriptional activation, APC lacking NESs remained active. Consistent with the hypothesis that nuclear APC lacking NESs can inhibit β‐catenin function by sequestration, we show that endogenous APC and β‐catenin proteins interact within the nucleus. These data demonstrate that nuclear APC binding to β‐catenin, and then inducing its nuclear export, plays a critical role in the control of nuclear β‐catenin levels and activity.
A putative GDP–GTP exchange factor is required for development of the excretory cell in Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Suzuki Norio , Buechner Matthew , Nishiwaki Kiyoji , Hall David H , Nakanishi Hiroyuki , Takai Yoshimi , Hisamoto Naoki , Matsumoto Kunihiro
Published: December 2013

The Caenorhabditis elegans excretory cell extends tubular processes, called canals, along the basolateral surface of the epidermis. Mutations in the exc‐5 gene cause tubulocystic defects in this canal. Ultrastructural analysis suggests that exc‐5 is required for the proper placement of cytoskeletal elements at the apical epithelial surface. exc‐5 encodes a protein homologous to guanine nucleotide exchange factors and contains motif architecture similar to that of FGD1, which is responsible for faciogenital dysplasia. exc‐5 interacts genetically with mig‐2, which encodes Rho GTPase. These results suggest that EXC‐5 controls the structural organization of the excretory canal by regulating Rho family GTPase activities.
Disease‐related versus polymorphic mutations in human mitochondrial tRNAs
Authors: Florentz Catherine , Sissler Marie
Published: December 2013

A number of point mutations in human mitochondrial (mt) tRNA genes are correlated with a variety of neuromuscular and other severe disorders including encephalopathies, myopathies, cardiopathies and diabetes. The complexity of the genotype/phenotype relationships, the diversity of possible molecular impacts of the different mutations at the tRNA structure/function levels, and the exponential discovery of new mutations call for the search for unifying features. Here, the basic features (at the levels of primary and secondary structure) of 68 ‘pathogenic’ mutations are compared with those of 64 ‘polymorphic’ neutral mutations, revealing that these standard parameters for mutant analysis are not sufficient to predict the pathogenicity of mt tRNA mutations. Thus, case by case molecular investigation remains the only means of assessing the growing family of pathogenic mutations in mt tRNAs. New lines of research are suggested.
The EU shark finning ban at the beginning of the new millennium: the legal framework
Authors: Passantino Annamaria
Published: December 2013

The strong international market for shark fins, but the often relatively low value of shark meat and the practical constraints for preserving it on board, have led to the practice whereby fins are removed from any shark caught by a fishing vessel and retained on board while the remainder of the shark is discarded at sea. This practice, known as “shark finning”, has raised increasing concerns, at both the international and European levels, due to the killing of large quantities of sharks, with devastating and unsustainable effects on shark populations. Despite the importance of shark fisheries for EC fleets, to date shark fisheries are not subject to a comprehensive management framework at the European level. A number of measures aiming directly or indirectly at the conservation and management of sharks have been adopted over time. Considering that, the range of existing measures must be strengthened to ensure the rebuilding of many depleted stocks fished by the EU fleet both in and outside EU waters. At the EC level a new regulation has recently been implemented. This paper carries out an overview of the legal framework for the finning bans in the EU to improve current knowledge about this topic and to aid in focusing future research.
The puzzle of the CNO abundances of α Cygni variables resolved by the Ledoux criterion
Authors: Georgy Cyril , Saio Hideyuki , Meynet Georges
Published: December 2013

Recent stellar evolution computations show that the blue supergiant (BSG) stars could come from two distinct populations: a first group arising from massive stars that just left the main sequence and are crossing the Hertzsprung–Russell diagram (HRD) towards the red supergiant (RSG) branch, and a second group coming from stars that have lost considerable amount of mass during the RSG stage and are crossing the HRD for a second time towards the blue region. Due to very different luminosity-to-mass ratio, only stars from the second group are expected to have excited pulsations observable at the surface. In a previous work, we have shown that our models were able to reproduce the pulsational properties of BSGs. However, these models failed to reproduce the surface chemical composition of stars evolving back from an RSG phase. In this Letter, we show how the use of the Ledoux criterion instead of the Schwarzschild one for convection allows us to significantly improve the agreement with the observed chemical composition, while keeping the agreement with the pulsation periods. This gives some support to the Ledoux criterion.
Modelling baryon acoustic oscillations with perturbation theory and stochastic halo biasing
Authors: Kitaura Francisco-Shu , Yepes Gustavo , Prada Francisco
Published: December 2013

In this work we investigate the generation of mock halo catalogues based on perturbation theory and non-linear stochastic biasing with the novel patchy code. In particular, we use Augmented Lagrangian Perturbation Theory (ALPT) to generate a dark matter density field on a mesh starting from Gaussian fluctuations and to compute the peculiar velocity field. ALPT is based on a combination of second order LPT (2LPT) on large scales and the spherical collapse model on smaller scales. We account for the systematic deviation of perturbative approaches from N-body simulations together with halo biasing adopting an exponential bias model. We then account for stochastic biasing by defining three regimes: a low-, an intermediate- and a high-density regime, using a Poisson distribution in the intermediate regime and the negative binomial distribution – including an additional parameter – to model over-dispersion in the high-density regime. Since we focus in this study on massive haloes, we suppress the generation of haloes in the low-density regime. The various non-linear and stochastic biasing parameters, and density thresholds, are calibrated with the large BigMultiDark N-body simulation to match the power spectrum of the corresponding halo population. Our model effectively includes only five parameters, as they are additionally constrained by the halo number density. Our mock catalogues show power spectra, in both real- and redshift-space, which are compatible with N-body simulations within about 2 per cent up to k ∼ 1 h Mpc−1 at z = 0.577 for a sample of haloes with the typical Baryon Oscillation Spectroscopic Survey (BOSS) CMASS (constant stellar mass galaxy sample) galaxy number density. The corresponding correlation functions are compatible down to a few Mpc. We also find that neglecting over-dispersion in high-density regions produces power spectra with deviations of 10 per cent at k ∼ 0.4 h Mpc−1. These results indicate the need to account for an accurate statistical description of the galaxy clustering for precise studies of large-scale surveys.
Rigid, flexible and impossible zeolite and related structures
Authors: O'Keeffe Michael
Published: December 2013

The flexibility or otherwise of periodic tetrahedral TX
2
frameworks formed by corner-sharing regular TX
4
tetrahedra is discussed. In particular, when T–X–T angle constraints are included, a suitable embedding can often only be found, if at all, in an symmetry less than the maximum possible for that topology. Examples illustrating this are adduced.
p97-dependent retrotranslocation and proteolytic processing govern formation of active Nrf1 upon proteasome inhibition
Authors: Radhakrishnan Senthil K , den Besten Willem , Deshaies Raymond J
Published: December 2013

Proteasome inhibition elicits an evolutionarily conserved response wherein proteasome subunit mRNAs are upregulated, resulting in recovery (i.e. 'bounce-back') of proteasome activity. We previously demonstrated that the transcription factor Nrf1/NFE2L1 mediates this homeostatic response in mammalian cells. We show here that Nrf1 is initially translocated into the lumen of the ER, but is rapidly and efficiently retrotranslocated to the cytosolic side of the membrane in a manner that depends on p97/VCP. Normally, retrotranslocated Nrf1 is degraded promptly by the proteasome and active species do not accumulate. However, in cells with compromised proteasomes, retrotranslocated Nrf1 escapes degradation and is cleaved N-terminal to Leu-104 to yield a fragment that is no longer tethered to the ER membrane. Importantly, this cleavage event is essential for Nrf1-dependent activation of proteasome gene expression upon proteasome inhibition. Our data uncover an unexpected role for p97 in activation of a transcription factor by relocalizing it from the ER lumen to the cytosol. Article now published as eLife 2014;3:e01856 http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.01856
Genomic Resources Notes accepted 1 October 2013 – 30 November 2013
Authors:   Genomic Resources Development Consortium, Keller Stephen R. , Nelson David M. , Pylant Cortney , Santos Scott R. , Trott Regina
Published: December 2013

This article documents the public availability of (i) genomic sequence data and 43 microsatellite loci for the bat species, Lasiurus borealis and Lasiurus cinereus, and (ii) complete mitochondrial and partial nuclear genomes for two jack species, Caranx ignobilis, Caranx melampygus.
Stillbirth and infant death among generations of Pakistani immigrant descent: a population‐based study
Authors: Sørbye Ingvil K. , Stoltenberg Camilla , Sundby Johanne , Daltveit Anne K. , Vangen Siri
Published: December 2013

Objective

To examine the risk of stillbirth and infant death among offspring of Pakistani‐born and Norwegian‐born women of Pakistani immigrant descent.

Design

Population‐based study linking the Medical Birth Registry of Norway to immigration data from Statistics Norway.

Setting

Norway.

Population

Births to women of Pakistani immigrant descent classified as Pakistani‐born (n = 8814) or Norwegian‐born (n = 1801), and to the host population of Norwegian descent (n = 712 430) from 1995 to 2010.

Methods

The relative risk of stillbirth and infant death by country of descent and birth was estimated by odds ratios with 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) using logistic regression.

Main outcome measures

Stillbirth and infant death.

Results

Risk of stillbirth was highest in the Pakistani‐born group (7.4/1000, 95% CI 5.7–9.4) followed by the Norwegian‐born group (5.0/1000, 95% CI 1.7–8.3) and finally the host population (3.5/1000, 95% CI 3.3–3.6). Relative to the host population, risk of stillbirth was higher in both Pakistani‐born (odds ratios 2.8, 95% CI 2.2–3.6) and Norwegian‐born (odds ratios 2.2, 95% CI 1.1–4.2) groups, after adjustment for year of birth, age, parity and residence. For infant death, absolute risks were 6.9/1000 (95% CI 5.2–8.8), 5.6/1000 (95% CI 2.7–10.2), and 2.9/1000 (95% CI 2.7–3.0), with adjusted odds ratios of 2.8 (95% CI 2.1–3.7) and 2.4 (95% CI 1.3–4.6), respectively.

Conclusions

An elevated risk of stillbirth and infant death persists across generations of Pakistani immigrant descent living in Norway. While translating into few excess deaths, the elevated risks should be taken into account by obstetric and pediatric care providers.
Host plant‐related variation in thermal tolerance of Eldana saccharina
Authors: Kleynhans Elsje , Conlong Des E. , Terblanche John S.
Published: December 2013

Understanding tolerance of thermal extremes by pest insects is essential for developing integrated management strategies, as tolerance traits can provide insights into constraints on activity and survival. A major question in thermal biology is whether thermal limits vary systematically with microclimate variation, or whether other biotic or abiotic factors can influence these limits in a predictable manner. Here, we report the results of experiments determining thermal limits to activity and survival at extreme temperatures in the stalk borer Eldana saccharina Walker (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), collected from either Saccharum spp. hybrids (sugarcane) (Poaceae) or Cyperus papyrus L. (Cyperaceae) and then reared under standard conditions in the laboratory for 1–2 generations. Chill‐coma temperature (CTmin), critical thermal maximum (CTmax), lower lethal temperatures (LLT), and freezing temperature between E. saccharina collected from the two host plants were compared. CTmin and CTmax of E. saccharina moths collected from sugarcane were significantly lower than those from C. papyrus (CTmin = 2.8 ± 0.4 vs. 3.9 ± 0.4 °C; CTmax = 44.6 ± 0.1 vs. 44.9 ± 0.2 °C). By contrast, LLT of moths and freezing temperatures of pupae did not vary with host plant [LLT for 50% (LT50) of the moth population, when collected from sugarcane: −3.2 ± 0.5 °C, from C. papyrus: −3.9 ± 0.8 °C]. Freezing temperatures of pupae collected from C. papyrus were −18.0 ± 1.0 °C and of those from sugarcane −17.5 ± 1.8 °C. The E. saccharina which experienced the lowest minimum temperature (in C. papyrus) did not have the lowest CTmin, although the highest estimate of CTmax was found in E. saccharina collected from C. papyrus and this was also the microsite which reported the highest maximum temperatures. These results therefore suggest that host plant may strongly mediate lower critical thermal limits, but not necessarily LLT or freezing temperatures. These results have significant implications for ongoing pest management and thermal biology of these and other insects.
Evaluating Outcome Domains Assessing Caregivers of Individuals with Mental Illness: A Review
Authors: Gelkopf Marc , Roe David
Published: December 2013

In this article, we describe the properties and consider the outcome dimensions of a collection of self‐administered questionnaires that assess caregivers of offspring with mental illness. To this end, we searched the MEDLINE, Web of Science, and PsycINFO databases, as well as reference lists of studies published between 1980 and 2012. We reviewed 43 instruments, and found multiple outcome domains, associated with either objective burden or subjective burden, or both. A number of tools captured additional negative aspects of caregiving (e.g., strain, stress, and worrying) as well as positive aspects (e.g., personal growth, strength, support, rewards, and satisfaction), supplemented by measures assessing caregivers' perceptions and attitudes toward their offspring with SMI (e.g., insight, stigma, and efficacy). This current review of existing measures and their specific domains contributes to a more comprehensive understanding of the caregiving experience and allows both clinicians and researchers to select the most appropriate measurement tools for their purposes.
Predictive immunogenicity of Refacto®AF
Authors: Delignat S. , Repessé Y. , Gilardin L. , Dimitrov J. D. , Lone Y.C. , Kaveri S. V. , Lacroix‐Desmazes S.
Published: December 2013

The administration of therapeutic factor VIII (FVIII) to treat or prevent haemorrhages in haemophilia A patients results, in up to 30% of the cases, in the development of inhibitory anti‐FVIII antibodies. Much debate has taken place on the relevance of the nature of the FVIII product as a risk factor for inhibitor development. Thus, the plasma‐derived vs. recombinant origin, the second vs. third generation of the product, or the presence of the B domain have been controversially evoked. A few years ago, Refacto® AF, a third‐generation recombinant B domain‐deleted FVIII was marketed. The aim of this study was to compare the immunogenicity of Refacto® AF to that of two recombinant full‐length FVIII products: Helixate® and Advate®. For the three recombinant FVIII products, we compared the binding to the mannose‐sensitive endocytic receptor CD206, the dose‐dependent endocytosis by immature monocyte‐derived dendritic cells (DCs), the activation by FVIII‐loaded DCs of a FVIII‐specific HLA‐DRB1*0101‐restricted mouse T‐cell hybridoma and the induction of inhibitory anti‐FVIII IgG in FVIII‐deficient mice. At elevated FVIII concentrations, Refacto® AF was less endocytosed than full‐length recombinant products. At lower concentrations, however, Refacto® AF was endocytosed by DCs and activated T cells as well as Helixate® and Advate®. The levels of inhibitory anti‐FVIII IgG induced by Refacto® AF in FVIII‐deficient mice were lower or equal to that induced by Helixate® and Advate® respectively. The predicted immunogenicity of Refacto® AF is identical to or lower than that of the two recombinant full‐length FVIII products available on the French market.
The updated ASCO/CAP guideline recommendations for HER2 testing in the management of invasive breast cancer: a critical review of their implications for routine practice
Authors: Rakha Emad A , Starczynski Jane , Lee Andrew H S , Ellis Ian O
Published: December 2013

The American Society of Clinical Oncology and the College of American Pathologists have issued joint updated comprehensive guideline recommendations for human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) testing in breast cancer. The update not only provides guidelines for the test performance parameters, with the aim of improving test accuracy, reproducibility, and precision, but also provides comprehensive recommendations on the post‐analytical interpretation of the results, and requires improved communication among healthcare providers. The updated guidelines are targeted at testing laboratories, pathologists, oncologists, surgeons, and, indirectly, other healthcare providers. Although the guidelines contribute to the improved analytical validity and clinical utility of laboratory assays required for successful molecularly targeted therapy in the era of personalized medicine, the implications of such recommendations have to be acknowledged. Certain recommendations, particularly those related to repeating the test and pathological concordance, have lower levels of supportive evidence than existing key recommendations, and the associated workload implications will be challenging to support in most healthcare systems. In this commentary, we critically address the key updated recommendations and their impact on service provision and patient care.
Pigmentation of axillary sentinel nodes from extensive skin tattoo mimics metastatic melanoma: case report
Authors: Manganoni Ausilia Maria , Sereni Elena , Pata Giacomo , Ungari Marco , Pavoni Laura , Farisoglio Camillo , Calzavara‐Pinton Pier Giacomo , Farfaglia Roberto
Published: December 2013

Background

The relationship between the occurrence of skin diseases and skin tattoos remains unclear. Dermatologic disorders have been reported to occur in about 2% of cases. In addition, tattoo pigment can migrate to the regional lymph nodes through the lymphatic vessels and subsequently mimic metastatic disease from melanoma.

Methods

A 23‐year‐old Caucasian man presented with a pigmented lesion on the left scapular region, which had slowly enlarged over time. The patient exhibited an extensive tattoo on the left upper arm, left shoulder, and part of the upper back. His medical history was unremarkable. The pigmented lesion was excised. Histology confirmed malignant melanoma. Ultrasound examination of the abdomen, neck, and inguinal and axillary lymph nodes and a total body computed tomography scan showed no sign of disease. A re‐excision with 2‐cm margins and sentinel lymph node biopsy (SLNB) were performed. Two grossly enlarged, black sentinel lymph nodes (SLNs) highly suggestive of melanoma metastases were removed.

Results

No evidence of melanoma metastasis was found in any of the sampled tissues. Large amounts of pigment were present within the subcapsular space and sinusoid areas of the two clinically suspicious lymph nodes. Immunohistochemical analysis was negative.

Conclusions

Sentinel lymph node biopsy is widely performed in cutaneous melanoma. Histologic confirmation of any enlarged, pigmented SLN is essential prior to radical surgery, especially when pigmented SLNs are found near a tattoo. Tattoo pigments may deposit in the regional lymph nodes and may clinically mimic metastatic disease. A history of tattooing should be considered in all melanoma patients eligible for SLNB. In a finding of darkly pigmented nodes during SLNB, radical lymphadenectomy should be withheld until immunohistologic confirmation of metastasis in the SLN is obtained.
Impact of amorphous and crystalline lactose on milk chocolate properties
Authors: Bolenz Siegfried , Römisch Josefine , Wenker Thorsten
Published: December 2013

Chocolate mass of low viscosity is preferred for most applications. Milk powder influences processing behaviour, flow properties and taste of milk chocolate. The project aimed to investigate influences of skim milk powders containing amorphous or crystalline lactose on flow properties after producing samples by roller milling and conching or alternatively by ball milling. For the first case, it was found that mass consistency before roller milling is strongly influenced by lactose type; producers must specify it and adapt initial mass fat content. Little impact on final products was found after processing milk powders at equilibrium moisture. If predried powders are used for reducing conching time, crystalline lactose leads to chocolate with slightly lower viscosity. At ball mill processing, crystalline lactose resulted in significantly lower viscosity, for example 15% at 40 s−1; thus, for this process, it can be recommended to use special milk powders high in crystalline lactose content.
Antioxidant activities of chicken liver hydrolysates by pepsin treatment
Authors: Chou Chung‐Hsi , Wang Sheng‐Yao , Lin Yi‐Tsen , Chen Yi‐Chen
Published: December 2013

This study was divided into two parts: (i) an optimal hydrolysing procedure of chicken liver hydrolysates (CLHs) and (ii) the in vivo antioxidant properties of CLHs via a D‐galactose‐induced mouse model. A pepsin‐to‐raw chicken liver mass ratio (1:400, w:w) and 2‐h hydrolysing period were chosen to manufacture CLHs based on yield, peptide level and antioxidant effect. Molecular masses of CLHs were lower than 10 kDa. CLH was rich in aspartic acid and glutamic acid, and also contained both manganese and selenium, which are essential cofactors of superoxide dismutase and glutathione peroxidase, respectively. The contents of cadmium, mercury, tin, and arsenic in CLHs were very low and even no detectible. Regarding the in vivo antioxidant activity of CLHs, a dosage of 1.2 g D‐galactose kg−1 body weight increased (P < 0.05) 2‐thiobarbituric acid reactive substances values and decreased (P < 0.05) glutathione and Trolox equivalent antioxidant capacity values, as well as superoxide dismutase, catalase, and glutathione peroxidase activities in serum and organs of mice. However, the in vivo antioxidant capacities were improved (P < 0.05) by supplementing CLHs.
Intravenous Insulin Treatment in Acute Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Ntaios G. , Papavasileiou V. , Bargiota A. , Makaritsis K. , Michel P.
Published: December 2013

Introduction

Poststroke hyperglycemia has been associated with unfavorable outcome. Several trials investigated the use of intravenous insulin to control hyperglycemia in acute stroke. This meta-analysis summarizes all available evidence from randomized controlled trials in order to assess its efficacy and safety.

Methods

We searched PubMed until 15/02/2013 for randomized clinical trials using the following search items: ‘intravenous insulin’ or ‘hyperglycemia’, and ‘stroke’. Eligible studies had to be randomized controlled trials of intravenous insulin in hyperglycemic patients with acute stroke. Analysis was performed on intention-to-treat basis using the Peto fixed-effects method. The efficacy outcomes were mortality and favorable functional outcome. The safety outcomes were mortality, any hypoglycemia (symptomatic or asymptomatic), and symptomatic hypoglycemia.

Results

Among 462 potentially eligible articles, nine studies with 1491 patients were included in the meta-analysis. There was no statistically significant difference in mortality between patients who were treated with intravenous insulin and controls (odds ratio: 1·16, 95% confidence interval: 0·89–1·49). Similarly, the rate of favorable functional outcome was not statistically different (odds ratio: 1·01, 95% confidence interval: 0·81–1·26). The rates of any hypoglycemia (odds ratio: 8·19, 95% confidence interval: 5·60–11·98) and of symptomatic hypoglycemia (odds ratio: 6·15, 95% confidence interval: 1·88–20·15) were higher in patients treated with intravenous insulin. There was no heterogeneity across the included trials in any of the outcomes studied.

Conclusions

This meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials does not support the use of intravenous insulin in hyperglycemic stroke patients to improve mortality or functional outcome. The risk of hypoglycemia is increased, however.
Belongingness in the workplace: a study of Malaysian nurses' experiences
Authors: Mohamed Z. , Newton J.M. , McKenna L.
Published: December 2013

Background

The need to belong has been proposed as the most basic need for human psychological well‐being. Lack of belongingness has been associated with stress, anxiety and lack of esteem. Social and psychological functioning in the workplace has been linked to nurses' interconnection with others and their perceptions of belongingness.

Aim

To explore factors contributing to Malaysian nurses' sense of belonging in the workplace.

Methods

A descriptive questionnaire survey of registered nurses (n = 437) working in two Malaysian hospitals was conducted in 2011. Previously validated questionnaires translated into the Malay language were used. Data were analysed using SPSS 19.0.

Results

Nurses enhanced their sense of belonging through acceptance, ‘fitting in’, respect and group harmony. There were no specific demographic factors contributing to the nurses' perceptions. The findings suggest that these priorities for belongingness were contextually influenced by factors such as elements of Malaysian culture, the nature of nurses' teamwork and stereotypical values on the nursing profession.

Limitations

Data were collected in only two hospitals. Experiences of nurses in other hospitals and areas of Malaysia may not be similar. The influence of Malaysian culture in this study raises issues about utilization of a measurement scale developed in Western cultures, which may not directly accord with cultural values of an Eastern ethnicity.

Conclusions

Aspects of belongingness in Malaysian nurses reflect those of nurses elsewhere. However, there are specific cultural influences at play. Therefore, development of a measurement scale based on Eastern culture would help in increasing understanding of workplace practices among these groups.

Implications for nursing and health policy

Workplaces that perpetuate an environment that is not conducive to generating a sense of belonging may have an untoward impact on care delivery. Healthcare policies need to ensure patient care has a focus on engaging practitioners within multidisciplinary teams.
A simulation‐based algorithm for optimal pricing policy under demand uncertainty
Authors: Chakravarty Saswata , Padakandla Sindhu , Bhatnagar Shalabh
Published: December 2013

We propose a simulation‐based algorithm for computing the optimal pricing policy for a product under uncertain demand dynamics. We consider a parameterized stochastic differential equation (SDE) model for the uncertain demand dynamics of the product over the planning horizon. In particular, we consider a dynamic model that is an extension of the Bass model. The performance of our algorithm is compared to that of a myopic pricing policy and is shown to give better results. Two significant advantages with our algorithm are as follows: (a) it does not require information on the system model parameters if the SDE system state is known via either a simulation device or real data, and (b) as it works efficiently even for high‐dimensional parameters, it uses the efficient smoothed functional gradient estimator.
Wireless micro current stimulation – an innovative electrical stimulation method for the treatment of patients with leg and diabetic foot ulcers
Authors: Wirsing Peter G , Habrom Alexander D , Zehnder Thomas M , Friedli Sandra , Blatti Marlise
Published: December 2013

Clinical experience with a new electrical stimulation (ES) technique, the wireless micro current stimulation (WMCS), for the treatment of chronic wounds is described. WMCS transfers the current to any surface wound from a distance, by using oxygen's and nitrogen's ability to exchange electrons. We studied 47 patients with hard‐to‐heal wounds. Patients with venous, arterial and mixed leg ulcers were predominant; other aetiologies such as diabetic foot lesions, pressure ulcers, vasculitis and pyoderma were also included. WMCS treatment protocol specified treatment twice or thrice per week, for 45–60 minutes per session, with 1·5 μA current intensity. Standard wound care was applied to all patients, including compression bandages, if necessary. Clear progress of wound healing, even after 2 weeks, was observed in all cases. The mean reduction of the wound surface after WMCS treatment was 95% in 8 weeks. Complete healing was achieved within 3 months for the majority of the cases. No clinical side effects were observed. WMCS technology significantly accelerated wound healing for patients with hard‐to‐heal wounds of different aetiologies. This new therapy offers multiple advantages compared with the previous methods of ES, as it is contactless, free of pain and very easy to use.
Firm Debt Renegotiation, Reorganization Filing and Bank Relationships
Authors: Huang Jiang‐Chuan , Huang Chin‐Sheng , Lin Hueh‐Chen
Published: December 2013

In this paper, we investigate the determinants of the firm's decision between informal or formal debt restructuring using a sample of Taiwanese listed firms. Our main results are as follows. First, bank shareholders fare significantly better with successful debt renegotiation by borrower firms than with the filing of a reorganization petition. Second, the stock market differentiates between reorganizations filed for opportunistic purposes and those reflecting formal financial resolutions. Third, the initial choice between debt renegotiation and reorganization filing is closely associated with the firm's bank relationships. However, this varies according to the relative bargaining power of firms and their banks, with the likelihood of successful debt renegotiation increasing with the bargaining power of the distressed firm. This suggests that a debtor‐friendly bankruptcy system does not necessarily enhance the efficiency of the resolution of financial distress in a financial system where banks are the dominant providers of capital.
Cathodoluminescence Properties of Blue Emitting Eu2+‐Doped AlN‐Polytypoids for Field‐Emission Displays
Authors: Wang Xiao‐Jun , Dierre Benjamin , Xie Rong‐Jun , Takeda Takashi , Hirosaki Naoto , Sekiguchi Takashi , Li Huili , Sun Zhuo
Published: December 2013

Eu2+‐doped AlN‐polytypoids (8H, 15R, 12H, and 21R) were successfully synthesized by nitrogen‐gas‐pressure sintering. The phosphors show intense blue emissions under the electron beam excitation. All the polytypoid phosphors exhibit relatively a smaller degradation in luminance and a higher thermal stability in comparison to the oxide counterparts. Among the polytypoids, 12H has no luminance saturation, and shows a brightness of 40 cd/m2 at 3 kV and 100 μA. These results indicate that Eu2+‐doped AlN‐polytypoids could also be used as blue phosphors for FEDs.
Direct Evidence for the Modulation Caused by Ti Substitution of Ta in a (Ta2O5)0.92(TiO2)0.08 Ceramic by Analytical Electron Microscopy
Authors: Wang Xiaodong , Zuo Jian‐Min , Hu Hefei , Rong Yonghua
Published: December 2013

The high‐temperature tetragonal structure of Ta2O5 was observed in a Ta2O5 ceramic sample doped with 8 at.% TiO2. Direct evidences for the modulation along [] direction caused by Ti replacing Ta are obtained based on atomic‐resolution high‐angle annular dark‐field lattice imaging and electron energy loss spectroscopy analysis. The atomic mechanism of Ti substitution of Ta is explicitly described based on the structure model along [110] direction projection.
Remote sensing data can improve predictions of species richness by stacked species distribution models: a case study for Mexican pines
Authors: Cord Anna F. , Klein Doris , Gernandt David S. , de la Rosa Jorge A. Pérez , Dech Stefan
Published: December 2013

Aim

Remote sensing data have been used in a growing number of studies to directly predict species richness or to improve the performance of species distribution models (SDMs), but their suitability for stacked species distribution models (S‐SDMs) remains unclear. In this case study, we evaluated the potential and limitations of remotely sensed data in S‐SDMs and addressed the commonly observed overestimation of species richness by S‐SDMs.

Location

Mexico.

Methods

Phenological and statistical metrics were derived from remotely sensed time series data (2001–2009) of the Terra‐MODIS enhanced vegetation index and land surface temperature products. In a series of climatic and remote sensing‐based SDMs, the distribution ranges of 40 species of the genus Pinus (Pinaceae) were modelled based on presence‐only herbarium and field data using the maximum entropy algorithm and summed to estimate species richness. Three different species‐specific thresholds were applied to convert continuous model predictions into binary maps. Modelled species richness was compared to independent data from the Mexican National Forest Inventory.

Results

The inclusion of remote sensing data led to significantly better predictions of species richness in comparison to the climate‐based models for the summed suitabilities and all thresholds considered. Both climatic and remote sensing‐based models allowed us to identify the areas with the highest pine species richness based on presence‐only data. Remote sensing‐based models compare closely with climate‐derived patterns, but provide better spatial resolution and more detailed information on local habitat availability.

Main conclusions

The results of this case study provide general guidance for the potential and limitations of using remote sensing data in S‐SDMs. Our results confirmed that remote sensing data may not only have the capability for improving individual SDMs, but also can be a potential tool for reducing the overestimation of species richness by S‐SDMs. This approach opens up new possibilities for species richness predictions in areas where biological survey data are scarce and where no species richness inventory data exist.
Parsimony analysis of endemicity (PAE) revisited
Authors: Morrone Juan J.
Published: December 2013

Several methods have been proposed for use in identifying and classifying areas of endemism. Parsimony analysis of endemicity (PAE) is the most widely used. It constructs cladograms based on the cladistic analysis of presence–absence data matrices of species and supraspecific taxa. Several authors have criticizedPAE, usually because they have misunderstood its theoretical basis. A summary of the procedure is presented here, along with a discussion of the interpretation ofPAEcladograms. Some critics deny any place in evolutionary biogeography for non‐phylogenetic approaches, but I believe evolutionary biogeography is a pluralistic discipline, wherePAEhas a place despite lacking a strictly phylogenetic perspective, and thus can be applied as the first step in an analysis. Other authors criticize the use ofPAEas a cladistic biogeographical method, although their arguments may be circular because they refer to biogeographical analyses based on phylogenetic hypotheses. Finally, the use ofPAEfor identifying areas of endemism has been criticized because an optimality criterion is used a posteriori to select areas of endemism found by what have been considered as less appropriate means, and endemicity analysis (EA) has proved to be more efficient thanPAEfor identifying areas of endemism. Over the last few decadesPAEhas been used extensively to identify areas of endemism and to determine their relationships, playing a relevant role in evolutionary biogeography.
Homage to Hutchinson, and the role of ecology in lineage divergence and speciation
Authors: Zink Robert M.
Published: December 2013

Aim

A fundamental goal of biogeography is to explain why sister taxa are allopatric. Potential explanations include insufficient time for range expansion, adaptation to allopatrically distributed environments, or ecological similarity that prevents coexistence. Many sister species have been isolated for hundreds of thousands of years, providing ample time to attain sympatry. This focuses attention on the role of ecology. Allopatric phylogroups and phylogenetic sister species often exhibit morphological differences that are apparent responses to differing ecological conditions, revealing a role for ecology in lineage divergence and speciation. However, as Hutchinson proposed five decades ago, a certain level of morphological divergence is typically required before two taxa can partition resources and coexist. This paper uses ecological niche modelling and phylogeography to explore the role of niche divergence in shaping the ranges of sister taxa and in the speciation process.

Location

Aridlands of North America including the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts and Baja California.

Methods

Ecological niche models were constructed for avian sister phylogroups on either side of two biogeographical barriers: the Vizcaino Desert in Baja California (c. 28°–30° N), and the Cochise Filter Barrier, which divides the Sonoran and Chihuahuan deserts. Each phylogroup pair was tested for differences in niche identity and niche divergence (using the background test).

Results

Niche identity can be rejected for each phylogroup, although tests of niche divergence were insignificant.

Main conclusions

Allopatric sister phylogroups exist in and respond to aspects of different environments, as shown by significant niche identity tests, leading to geographical variation that is often recognized taxonomically, supporting a role for ecology in lineage divergence. However, sister phylogroups also use shared ancestral components of the climatic niche more often than expected by chance, which might prevent selection from yielding divergence in traits related to resource use. Climatic niche divergence does not explain allopatric ranges of phylogroups. Allopatry is maintained because the phylogroups are too similar morphologically, lacking the necessary Hutchinsonian ratios for coexistence. The role of ecology in speciation differs between lineage and biological species concepts owing to their different ranking criteria.
Motives for adherence to a gluten‐free diet: a qualitative investigation involving adults with coeliac disease
Authors: Dowd A. J. , Tamminen K. A. , Jung M. E. , Case S. , McEwan D. , Beauchamp M. R.
Published: December 2013

Background

Currently, the only treatment for coeliac disease is lifelong adherence to a strict gluten‐free diet. Strict adherence to a gluten‐free diet is challenging, with recent reports suggesting that adherence rates range from 42% to 91%. The present study aimed to: (i) identify motives for adhering to a gluten‐free diet and (ii) explore factors implicated in adherence and non‐adherence behaviour in terms of accidental and purposeful gluten consumption among adults with coeliac disease.

Methods

Two hundred and three adults with coeliac disease completed an online questionnaire. Using a qualitative design, relationships were examined between reported adherence and motivation to follow a gluten‐free diet, as well as the onset, duration and severity of symptoms.

Results

Feelings of desperation (‘hitting rock bottom’) and needing to gain or lose weight were associated with the strictest adherence to a gluten‐free diet. Participants who accidentally consumed gluten over the past week developed symptoms the most quickly and reported the most pain over the past 6 months. Participants who consumed gluten on purpose over the past week reported a shorter duration of symptoms and less pain over the past 6 months.

Conclusions

Hitting rock bottom and needing to gain or lose weight were factors associated with the strictest adherence, when considered in the context of both accidental and purposeful gluten consumption. Future research is warranted to develop resources to help people with coeliac disease follow a strict gluten‐free diet.
Estimation of mass thickness response of embedded aggregated silica nanospheres from high angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron micrographs
Authors: NORDIN M. , ABRAHAMSSON C. , HAMNGREN BLOMQVIST C. , HÄBEL H. , RÖDING M. , OLSSON E. , NYDÉN M. , RUDEMO M.
Published: December 2013

In this study, we investigate the functional behaviour of the intensity in high‐angle annular dark field scanning transmission electron micrograph images. The model material is a silica particle (20 nm) gel at 5 wt%. By assuming that the intensity response is monotonically increasing with increasing mass thickness of silica, an estimate of the functional form is calculated using a maximum likelihood approach. We conclude that a linear functional form of the intensity provides a fair estimate but that a power function is significantly better for estimating the amount of silica in the z‐direction.

The work adds to the development of quantifying material properties from electron micrographs, especially in the field of tomography methods and three‐dimensional quantitative structural characterization from a scanning transmission electron micrograph. It also provides means for direct three‐dimensional quantitative structural characterization from a scanning transmission electron micrograph.
High‐Fat Diet Induces Leptin Resistance in Leptin‐Deficient Mice
Authors: Koch C. E. , Lowe C. , Pretz D. , Steger J. , Williams L. M. , Tups A.
Published: December 2013

The occurrence of type II diabetes is highly correlated with obesity, although the mechanisms linking the two conditions are incompletely understood. Leptin is a potent insulin sensitiser and, in leptin‐deficient, insulin insensitive, Lepob/ob mice, leptin improves glucose tolerance, indicating that leptin resistance may link obesity to insulin insensitivity. Leptin resistance occurs in response to a high‐fat diet (HFD) and both hyperleptinaemia and inflammation have been proposed as causative mechanisms. Scrutinising the role of hyperleptinaemia in this process, central hyperleptinaemia in Lepob/ob mice was induced by chronic i.c.v. infusion of leptin (4.2 μg/day) over 10 days. This treatment led to a dramatic decline in body weight and food intake, as well as an improvement in glucose tolerance. Transfer to HFD for 4 days markedly arrested the beneficial effects of leptin on these parameters. Because Lepob/ob mice are exquisitely sensitive to leptin, the possibility that leptin could reverse HFD‐induced glucose intolerance in these animals was investigated. HFD led to increased body weight and glucose intolerance compared to a low‐fat diet (LFD). Older and heavier Lepob/ob mice were used as body weight‐matched controls. Mice in each group received either i.p. leptin (1.25 mg/kg) or vehicle, and glucose tolerance, food intake and the number of phosphorylated signal transducer and activator of transcription (pSTAT)3 immunoreactive cells in the arcuate nucleus (ARC) and ventromedial hypothalamus (VMH) were analysed. Leptin improved glucose tolerance (P = 0. 019) and reduced food intake in Lepob/ob mice on LFD (P ≤ 0.001) but was ineffective in mice on HFD. Furthermore, when leptin was administered centrally, the glucose tolerance of Lepob/ob mice on HFD was significantly impaired (P = 0.007). Although leptin induced the number of pSTAT3 immunoreactive cells in the ARC and VMH of Lepob/ob mice on LFD, HFD was associated with elevated pSTAT3 immunoreactivity in vehicle‐treated Lepob/ob mice that was unaffected by leptin treatment, suggesting central leptin resistance. Negating central inflammation by co‐administering a c‐Jun n‐terminal kinase (JNK) inhibitor reinstated the glucose‐lowering effects of leptin. These findings demonstrate that Lepob/ob mice develop leptin resistance on a HFD independent of hyperleptinaemia and also indicate that the JNK inflammatory pathway plays a key role in the induction of diet‐induced glucose intolerance.
‘Essential’ Patents, FRAND Royalties and Technological Standards
Authors: Dewatripont Mathias , Legros Patrick
Published: December 2013

Standard Setting Organizations have developed FRAND agreements in order to prevent firms from holding up other participants once a standard is created. We analyze here the consequences of such agreements—in particular the requirements of fairness and non‐discrimination—for the creation of technological standards that require the participation of existing patent holders. We abandon the usual assumption that patents bring known benefits to the industry or that their benefits are known to all parties. When royalty payments are increasing in one's patent portfolio, as is implicitly the case in FRAND agreements, private information about the quality of patents leads to a variety of distortions, in particular the incentives of firms to ‘pad’ by contributing patents that are ‘inessential’ for the given standard, a phenomenon that seems to be widespread. Several results emerge from the analysis: (i) the number of inessential patents co‐varies positively with the number of essential patents; (ii) there is over‐investment relative to the second‐best, that is when padding cannot be avoided and (iii) the threat of disputes reduces incentives to pad but at the cost of lower production of strong patents; (iv) mitigating this undesirable side‐effect calls for a simultaneous increase in the cost of padding, through a better filtering of patent applications.