bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Gonadotropin Inhibitory Hormone Down-Regulates the Brain-Pituitary Reproductive Axis of Male European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)1
Authors: Paullada-Salmerón José A. , Cowan Mairi , Aliaga-Guerrero María , Morano Francesca , Zanuy Silvia , Muñoz-Cueto José A. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractGonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) inhibits gonadotropin synthesis and release from the pituitary of birds and mammals. However, the physiological role of orthologous GnIH peptides on the reproductive axis of fish is still uncertain, and their actions on the main neuroendocrine systems controlling reproduction (i.e., GnRHs, kisspeptins) have received little attention. In a recent study performed in the European sea bass, we cloned a cDNA encoding a precursor polypeptide that contained C-terminal MPMRFamide (sbGnIH-1) and MPQRFamide (sbGnIH-2) peptide sequences, developed a specific antiserum against sbGnIH-2, and characterized its central and pituitary GnIH projections in this species. In this study, we analyzed the effects of intracerebroventricular injection of sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 on brain and pituitary expression of reproductive hormone genes (gnrh1, gnrh2, gnrh3, kiss1, kiss2, gnih, lhbeta, fshbeta), and their receptors (gnrhr II-1a, gnrhr II-2b, kiss1r, kiss2r, and gnihr) as well as on plasma Fsh and Lh levels. In addition, we determined the effects of GnIH on pituitary somatotropin (Gh) expression. The results obtained revealed the inhibitory role of sbGnIH-2 on brain gnrh2, kiss1, kiss2, kiss1r, gnih, and gnihr transcripts and on pituitary fshbeta, lhbeta, gh, and gnrhr-II-1a expression, whereas sbGnIH-1 only down-regulated brain gnrh1 expression. However, at different doses, central administration of both sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 decreased Lh plasma levels. Our work represents the first study reporting the effects of centrally administered GnIH in fish and provides evidence of the differential actions of sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 on the reproductive axis of sea bass, the main inhibitory role being exerted by the sbGnIH-2 peptide.
The Cancer Epitope Trees of 23 Early Cervical Cancers in Chinese Women
Authors: Li Xia , Huang Hailiang , Guang Yanfang , Gong Yuhua , He Chen-Yi , Yi Xin , Qi Ming , Chen Zhi-Ying 
Published: March 2016

AbstractEmerging evidences suggest the heterogeneity of cancers limits the efficacy of immunotherapy. To search for optimal therapeutic targets, we used whole-exome sequencing data from 23 early cervical tumors from Chinese women to investigate the hierarchical structure of the somatic mutations and the predicted neo-epitopes based on their strong binding with major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. We found each tumor carried 117 mutations and 61 neo-epitopes in average and displayed a unique phylogenic tree and “cancer neo-epitope tree” comprising different compositions of mutations or neo-epitopes. Conceivably, the neo-epitopes at the top of the tree shared by all cancer cells are the optimal therapeutic targets that might lead to a cure. Human papillomavirus can be used as therapeutic target in only a proportion of cases where the integrated genome exits without active infection. Therefore, the “cancer neo-epitope tree” will serve as an important source to determine of the optimal immunotherapeutic target.
Combating corruption in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Feisal 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the current state of corruption in Pakistan and evaluate attempts by the government to combat its entrenched corruption culture.Design/methodology/approach– The paper shows that Pakistan’s legacy of British colonial rule, its ethno-linguistic conflict and alternating civilian governments and military coups have weakened institutional capabilities, hindered capacity building and allowed systemic corruption to flourish there. Pakistan’s many anti-corruption efforts failed because they were used to attack political foes instead of strengthening institutional capabilities.Findings– Pakistan has maintained its highly authoritarian form of governance inherited from the British in 1947. The ruling elite view the state as a milch cow for their personal enrichment and this attitude is also reflected in the performance of its bureaucracy. Existing rules of conduct and administration are not enforced as citizens encounter corruption in their dealings with officials. At the policy level, key decisions are often made to benefit the decision makers. The paper concludes that without political will no significant improvement in the state of corruption in Pakistan is likely to occur.Originality/value– This paper will be useful for scholars, policy-makers and anti-corruption practitioners who are interested in corruption in Pakistan and whether the apparent institutionalization of parliamentary democracy has reduced corruption there.
Towards a process of agenda setting driven by social media
Authors: Martin Sebastian , Grüb Birgit 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– This paper aims to provide an in-depth evaluation of how German and Austrian utilities use Facebook to engage stakeholders, including a look at the objectives pursued with the use of Facebook, addressed stakeholders as well as the provided information. German and Austrian utility companies are confronted with serious changes in the European energy sector. In this context, stakeholder theory emphasises the importance for utility companies to actively manage the relationships with the relevant stakeholders. Nowadays, a considerable number of these stakeholders might be addressed by using Facebook.Design/methodology/approach– The quantitative study includes 88 German and Austrian utility companies.Findings– Research findings indicate that Facebook is a common instrument in the German and Austrian energy sectors. It seems that so far, no real stakeholder dialogue has been achieved. Moreover, issues which deeply affect a wide variety of citizens are not emphasised on most Facebook accounts. Therefore, so far, the majority of utilities is not using the full potential of Facebook.Originality/value– By developing a process of agenda-setting driven by social media, the paper contributes to the existing literature and gives practical implications for public and private entities in the energy sector.
Transforming disagreements into opportunities to enhance learning, decision making and trust
Authors: Dmytriyev Sergiy , Freeman R. Edward , Haskins Mark E. 
Published: March 2016

Purpose
– Disagreements related to processes, priorities, and purpose surface within organizations. Disagreements may be between colleagues, or between internal and external protagonists, or between managers and their direct reports. Rather than avoiding or ignoring or even trying to eradicate disagreement, this paper highlights the potential value to be extracted from disagreement and offers some ideas on how best to be in a position to do so.

Design/methodology/approach
– This paper is the result of the insights offered by one of the world’s leading ethicists and the reflective thought based on hundreds of discussions by all three authors with practicing managers combining for over 60 years of such engagement.

Findings
– Practical considerations, examples, and suggestions for extracting the benefit resident in disagreement are presented and discussed.

Practical implications
– The ideas and outcomes posed are immediately and broadly applicable.

Originality/value
– Readers are provided with an array of field-observed benefits that are potential outcomes from a conscientious engagement with disagreement. Within an organizational “climate of possibilities”, ten potential benefits from constructive engagement with disagreement are presented and discussed. In addition, ten means for enhancing the likelihood of capturing those benefits are presented.
Country profile: intellectual disability in Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Erenice Natalia Soares de , Forrester-Jones Rachel 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to provide a contextual overview of learning disability (LD) in Brazil.Design/methodology/approach– The paper uses an historical approach, providing a critical appraisal of the key theories and treatment of people with LD from the sixteenth century to the present.Findings– Brazil has experienced a different historical trajectory in terms of treatment and practice for people with LD compared to Europe, the UK and the USA.Originality/value– Brazil is one of the most rapidly developing, globally important countries with an emerging major economy. There are opportunities now for people with LD to be included in their country’s development, yet their needs should be highlighted.
Commentary on “‘I felt I deserved it’ – experiences and implications of disability hate crime”
Authors: Sin Chih Hoong 
Published: March 2016

Purpose– The purpose of this paper is to provide a commentary on “‘I felt I deserved it’ – Experiences and implications of disability hate crime”.Design/methodology/approach– Comparing the findings reported by Richardson and her colleagues with the wider evidence base, it is clear that there is considerable consistency. While scholarship in this area is still nascent, there is sufficient clarity around key issues that should support action to tackle hate crime against people with learning disability and/or autism.Findings– Interventions should not make uncritical assumptions around the vulnerability of people with learning disability and/or autism. Poor service commissioning, design and delivery can play a part in heightening risks. Hate crime is not simply a criminal justice issue, and effective intervention will rely on multi-agency working.Originality/value– The commentary recommends a social model approach towards understanding hate crime and how it may be tackled. It identifies the challenges confronting multi-agency working by situating the analysis against the wider context of public spending cuts and the impact of these on wider societal attitudes towards disabled people.
Efficacy and safety of tenofovir, entecavir, and telbivudine for chronic hepatitis B in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Durante‐Mangoni E. , Vitrone M. , Parrella A. , Andini R. , Iossa D. , Ragone E. , Falco E. , Maiello C. , Utili R. , Zampino R. 
Published: March 2016

AbstractBackgroundTreatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) with polymerase inhibitors is key to prevent disease flares and progression toward advanced liver disease. Efficacy and tolerability of newer agents has been reported anecdotally in transplant recipients.MethodsIn this prospective, observational study, we assessed outcomes of therapy with tenofovir (TDF), entecavir (ETV), and telbivudine (LdT) in 13 heart transplant recipients (HTR) with CHB.ResultsMost patients were hepatitis B e antigen negative, had low baseline hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, and normal aminotransferases. Liver biopsy showed a median fibrosis score of 1.5 (range 0–4). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was <50 mL/min in 7 patients (54%). Two patients were started on de novo ETV before transplant. Eleven previously treated patients were switched to TDF (n = 9) or LdT (n = 2). Median treatment duration was 33 months (range 1–71). HBV DNA remained suppressed in 6 patients and became undetectable in 5. Aminotransferases went down to the normal range in all patients, with a single flare in 1 patient. One patient lost hepatitis B surface antigen. No cases occurred of hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver‐related death. The GFR remained largely stable, and no cases of TDF‐related hyper‐phosphaturia were observed.ConclusionsThis study indicates that newer antivirals are effective and safe in HTR with CHB.
Protection of Cattle against Rinderpest by Vaccination with Wild-Type but Not Attenuated Strains of Peste des Petits Ruminants Virus
Authors: Holzer Barbara , Hodgson Sophia , Logan Nicola , Willett Brian , Baron Michael D. 
Published: March 2016

ABSTRACTAlthough rinderpest virus (RPV) has been eradicated in the wild, efforts are still continuing to restrict the extent to which live virus is distributed in facilities around the world and to prepare for any reappearance of the disease, whether through deliberate or accidental release. In an effort to find an alternative vaccine which could be used in place of the traditional live attenuated RPV strains, we have determined whether cattle can be protected from rinderpest by inoculation with vaccine strains of the related morbillivirus, peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). Cattle were vaccinated with wild-type PPRV or either of two established PPRV vaccine strains, Nigeria/75/1 or Sungri/96. All animals developed antibody and T cell immune responses to the inoculated PPRV. However, only the animals given wild-type PPRV were protected from RPV challenge. Animals given PPRV/Sungri/96 were only partially protected, and animals given PPRV/Nigeria/75/1 showed no protection against RPV challenge. While sera from animals vaccinated with the vaccine strain of RPV showed cross-neutralizing ability against PPRV, none of the sera from animals vaccinated with any strain of PPRV was able to neutralize RPV although sera from animals inoculated with wild-type PPRV were able to neutralize RPV-pseudotyped vesicular stomatitis virus.IMPORTANCERinderpest virus has been eradicated, and it is only the second virus for which this is so. Significant efforts are still required to ensure preparedness for a possible escape of RPV from a laboratory or its deliberate release. Since RPV vaccine protects sheep and goats from PPRV, it is important to determine if the reverse is true as this would provide a non-RPV vaccine for dealing with suspected RPV outbreaks. This is probably the lastin vivostudy with live RPV that will be approved.
Health professionals’ experiences of tuberculosis cohort audit in the North West of England: a qualitative study
Authors: Wallis Selina K , Jehan Kate , Woodhead Mark , Cleary Paul , Dee Katie , Farrow Stacey , McMaster Paddy , Wake Carolyn , Walker Jenny , Sloan D J , Squire S B 
Published: March 2016

ObjectivesTuberculosis cohort audit (TBCA) was introduced across the North West (NW) of England in 2012 as an ongoing, multidisciplinary, systematic case review process, designed to improve clinical and public health practice. TBCA has not previously been introduced across such a large and socioeconomically diverse area in England, nor has it undergone formal, qualitative evaluation. This study explored health professionals’ experiences of the process after 1515 cases had been reviewed.DesignQualitative study using semistructured interviews. Respondents were purposively sampled from 3 groups involved in the NW TBCA: (1) TB nurse specialists, (2) consultant physicians and (3) public health practitioners. Data from the 26 respondents were triangulated with further interviews with key informants from the TBCA Steering Group and through observation of TBCA meetings.AnalysisInterview transcripts were analysed thematically using the framework approach.ResultsParticipants described the evolution of a valuable ‘community of practice’ where interprofessional exchange of experience and ideas has led to enhanced mutual respect between different roles and a shared sense of purpose. This multidisciplinary, regional approach to TB cohort audit has promoted local and regional team working, exchange of good practices and local initiatives to improve care. There is strong ownership of the process from public health professionals, nurses and clinicians; all groups want it to continue. TBCA is regarded as a tool for quality improvement that improves patient safety.ConclusionsTBCA provides peer support and learning for management of a relatively rare, but important infectious disease through discussion in a no-blame atmosphere. It is seen as an effective quality improvement strategy which enhances TB care, control and patient safety. Continuing success will require increased engagement of consultant physicians and public health practitioners, a secure and ongoing funding stream and establishment of clear reporting mechanisms within the public health system.
Role and therapeutic potential of vascular stem/progenitor cells in pathological neovascularisation during chronic portal hypertension
Authors: Garcia-Pras Ester , Gallego Javier , Coch Laura , Mejias Marc , Fernandez-Miranda Gonzalo , Pardal Ricardo , Bosch Jaime , Mendez Raul , Fernandez Mercedes 
Published: March 2016

ObjectivePathological neovascularisation is intimately involved in portal hypertension (PH). Here, we determined the contribution of vascular stem/progenitor cells (VSPCs) to neovessel growth in PH and whether the RNA-binding protein cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein-4 (CPEB4) was behind the mechanism controlling VSPC function.DesignTo identify and monitor VSPCs in PH rats (portal vein-ligated), we used a combinatorial approach, including sphere-forming assay, assessment of self-renewal, 5-bromo-2′-desoxyuridine label retention technique, in vitro and in vivo stem/progenitor cell (SPC) differentiation and vasculogenic capability, cell sorting, as well as immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy expression analysis. We also determined the role of CPEB4 on VSPC proliferation using genetically engineered mouse models.ResultsWe demonstrated the existence in the mesenteric vascular bed of VSPCs displaying capability to form cellular spheres in suspension culture, self-renewal ability, expression of molecules commonly found in SPCs, slow-cycling features, in addition to other cardinal properties exhibited by SPCs, like capacity to differentiate into endothelial cells and pericytes with remarkable vasculogenic activity. Such VSPCs showed, after PH induction, an early switch in proliferation, and differentiated in vivo into endothelial cells and pericytes, contributing, structurally and functionally, to abnormal neovessel formation. Quantification of VSPC-dependent neovessel formation in PH further illustrated the key role played by VSPCs. We also demonstrated that CPEB4 regulates the proliferation of the activated VSPC progeny upon PH induction.ConclusionsThese findings demonstrate that VSPC-derived neovessel growth (ie, vasculogenesis) and angiogenesis cooperatively stimulate mesenteric neovascularisation in PH and identify VSPC and CPEB4 as potential therapeutic targets.
Differential diagnosis of bladder versus colorectal adenocarcinoma: keratin 7 and GATA3 positivity in nuclear ß-catenin-negative glandular tumours defines adenocarcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Broede Anna , Oll Matthias , Maurer Angela , Siegert Sabine , Stoerkel Stephan , Golz Reinhard , Schwamborn Kristina , Veeck Jürgen , Knuechel Ruth , Gaisa Nadine T 
Published: March 2016

AimsThis study evaluates immunohistochemical markers for the differential diagnosis of primary bladder adenocarcinoma (BAC) from secondarily involving colorectal adenocarcinoma (CAC). Additional staining of putative precursor lesions (cystitis cystica et glandularis (CC) and intestinal metaplasia (IM)) supports insights into metaplastic cell development and aberrant differentiation in tumours.MethodsTissue microarray sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from clinically verified 11 BAC, 11 CAC, 18 invasive urothelial carcinomas (UCs), 22 normal urothelium samples, 25 CC and 15 IM were stained for keratin 7, 5/6, 5/14 and 20, ß-catenin, e-cadherin, cadherin 17, cdx2, uroplakin II and III, CD10, androgen receptor (AR), S100P, MUC2, MUC5AC and GATA3 expression. Data were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis/Dunn's multiple comparison test and Fisher's exact test.ResultsSignificant difference (p<0.05) between all three tumour groups was observed for keratin 7 only. Further significant difference between BAC and CAC was found for GATA3 and nuclear ß-catenin staining. BAC-positive/CAC-negative markers without significance were: p63, keratin 5/6, 5/14, uroplakins II/III and AR. CC showed a urothelial phenotype (p63+, GATA3+, S100P+, uroplakin+ in single cells) with initial signs of intestinal differentiation (single cells cdx2+ or cadherin 17+). IM displayed a full intestinal phenotype (p63−, all urothelial markers-, cdx2/MUC2/MUC5AC+, cadherin17+).ConclusionsDifferential diagnosis of BAC and CAC remains difficult, but positive staining for keratin 7 in nuclear ß-catenin-negative tumours argues for BAC. Additional markers like GATA3 and p63 may be added, as positivity in some cases may be helpful. However, for reliable histological diagnosis, knowledge of comprehensive clinical data is still essential.
Suspected vagal reflex bradycardia in a calf undergoing surgical resection of an infected urachus
Authors: Scarabelli Stefania , Holman Amy Nicola , Senior Mark 
Published: March 2016

A four‐week‐old Charolais heifer was referred for surgical treatment of an infected umbilicus. The heifer was sedated with intravenous xylazine, and an indwelling intravenous jugular cannula was placed. General anaesthesia was induced with intravenous ketamine and maintained with isoflurane in 100 per cent oxygen. Surgical exploration of the abdomen revealed an infected urachus originating from the apex of the bladder and bilaterally infected umbilical arteries. Anaesthesia was stable for 35 minutes until surgical traction of the urachus and umbilical arteries resulted in bradycardia and hypoventilation/apnoea, which resolved when the traction was released, but recurred as and when traction was reinitiated. Collaboration between the anaesthetist and the surgeon was necessary to progress the procedure while minimising perturbations in physiology. Towards the end of the procedure, during peritoneal lavage with sterile saline, severe bradycardia developed (heart rate <20 bpm) and was successfully treated with atropine 0.04 mg/kg intravenously. The heifer recovered uneventfully from anaesthesia.
Evaluation of a phase-feeding strategy utilizing high-lipid high-fibre byproduct pellets in diets for feedlot steers
Authors: Joy F. , Górka P. , McKinnon J.J. , Hendrick S. , Burciaga-Robles L.O. , Penner G.B. 
Published: March 2016

Two studies were conducted to evaluate the provision of high-lipid high-fibre byproduct pellets when used as a partial replacement (60% in Study 1 and 30% in Study 2; HLP) for barley grain and canola meal in finishing diets (BAR). The HLP was fed for the last 49, 98, or 147 d (HLP49, HLP98, and HLP147, respectively) in Study 1, and for the last 60 or 120 d in Study 2 (HLP60 and HLP120, respectively) or the last 60 d with additional canola oil (HLP60CO). The statistical model included the fixed effects of diet, period, and the interaction. Steers fed BAR147 had the greatest average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.01) and G:F (P = 0.01). The HLP147 had the greatest dry matter intake (DMI) during the first 49 d but least during the last 49 d of the finishing phase (treatment × period; P < 0.01). Hot carcass weight for BAR147 and HLP49 were the heaviest (P = 0.04). In Study 2, DMI and ADG were not affected (P > 0.05), but hot carcass weight was greater for BAR120 and HLP60 than HLP120 and HLP60CO. Inclusion of high-fibre high-lipid byproduct pellets in the latter part of the finishing period may improve carcass yield grade without affecting ADG and G:F.