bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mutagenesis of pairwise combinations of histone amino-terminal tails reveals functional redundancy in budding yeast
Authors: Kim Jung-Ae , Hsu Jer-Yuan , Smith M. Mitchell , Allis C. David
Published: March 2012

A large body of literature provides compelling evidence for the role of evolutionarily conserved core histone residues in various biological processes. However, site-directed mutagenesis of individual residues that are known to be sites of posttranslational modifications often does not result in clear phenotypic defects. In some cases, the combination of multiple mutations can give rise to stronger phenotypes, implying functional redundancy between distinct residues on histones. Here, we examined the “histone redundancy hypothesis” by characterizing double deletion of all pairwise combinations of amino-terminal tails (N-tails) from the four core histones encoded in budding yeast. First, we found that multiple lysine residues on the N-tails of both H2A and H4 are redundantly involved in cell viability. Second, simultaneous deletion of N-tails from H2A and H3 leads to a severe growth defect, which is correlated with perturbed gross chromatin structure in the mutant cells. Finally, by combining point mutations on H3 with deletion of the H2A N-tail, we revealed a redundant role for lysine 4 on H3 and the H2A N-tail in hydroxyurea-mediated response. Altogether, these data suggest that the N-tails of core histones share previously unrecognized, potentially redundant functions that, in some cases are different from those of the widely accepted H2A/H2B and H3/H4 dimer pairs.
Rotenone Persistence Model for Montane Streams
Authors: Brown Peter J. , Zale Alexander V.
Published: March 2012

The efficient and effective use of rotenone is hindered by its unknown persistence in streams. Environmental conditions degrade rotenone, but current label instructions suggest fortifying the chemical along a stream based on linear distance or travel time rather than environmental conditions. Our objective was to develop models that use measurements of environmental conditions to predict rotenone persistence in streams. Detailed measurements of ultraviolet radiation, water temperature, dissolved oxygen, total dissolved solids (TDS), conductivity, pH, oxidation–reduction potential (ORP), substrate composition, amount of organic matter, channel slope, and travel time were made along stream segments located between rotenone treatment stations and cages containing bioassay fish in six streams. The amount of fine organic matter, biofilm, sand, gravel, cobble, rubble, small boulders, slope, pH, TDS, ORP, light reaching the stream, energy dissipated, discharge, and cumulative travel time were each significantly correlated with fish death. By using logistic regression, measurements of environmental conditions were paired with the responses of bioassay fish to develop a model that predicted the persistence of rotenone toxicity in streams. This model was validated with data from two additional stream treatment reaches. Rotenone persistence was predicted by a model that used travel time, rubble, and ORP. When this model predicts a probability of less than 0.95, those who apply rotenone can expect incomplete eradication and should plan on fortifying rotenone concentrations. The significance of travel time has been previously identified and is currently used to predict rotenone persistence. However, rubble substrate, which may be associated with the degradation of rotenone by adsorption and volatilization in turbulent environments, was not previously considered.
Time perspective and environmental engagement: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Milfont Taciano L. , Wilson Jessie , Diniz Pollyane
Published: March 2012

Environmental issues entail both a social conflict (private vs. public interests) and a temporal conflict (short‐ vs. long‐term interests). This paper focuses on the role temporal concerns play in influencing environmental engagement by quantitatively integrating results of studies that assessed the associations between time perspective and proenvironmental attitudes and behaviors. The meta‐analysis included a total of 19 independent samples and 6,301 participants from seven countries (Australia, Brazil, Germany, Mexico, New Zealand, Norway, and the United States). Results showed that the associations between time perspective and proenvironmental behaviors were higher than those for proenvironmental attitudes. Supporting predictions, the associations between future time perspective and proenvironmental behaviors were strong and nontrivial compared to those for the combined past–present time perspective. The findings indicate that future time perspective seems to play an important role in influencing individuals’ attitudes and behaviors towards the environment. Implications of the findings for theory and practice are discussed.
Beyond the fringe? South African social movements and the politics of redistribution
Authors: Friedman Steven
Published: March 2012

Collective action in support of the redistribution of wealth and power in South Africa was initially led by the trade union movement. But, as more labour-market entrants have failed to find work in the formal economy, unions' capacity to speak for the poor has declined. Scholars and activists have, therefore, come to see new social movements as a superior source of effective action for redistribution. Analysis reveals that the movements are not equipped to lead a redistributive coalition but that co-operation between unions and social movements, and a synergy between their approaches, is most likely to produce effective redistributive politics.

[Au-delà des bords? Les mouvements sociaux sud-africains et la politique de redistribution]. L'action collective en faveur de la redistribution des richesses et du pouvoir en Afrique du Sud était initialement dirigée par le mouvement syndical. Mais, compte tenu du fait que des nouveaux arrivants dans le marché d'emploi n'ont pas réussi à trouver du travail dans l'économie formelle, la capacité des syndicats de parler au nom des pauvres a diminué. Les universitaires et les activistes sont, par conséquent, arrivés à voir de nouveaux mouvements sociaux comme une source supérieure d'une action efficace pour la redistribution. L'analyse révèle que les mouvements ne sont pas équipés pour mener une coalition de redistribution, mais la coopération entre les syndicats et les mouvements sociaux, et une synergie entre leurs approches, est plus susceptible de produire des politiques efficaces de redistribution.

Mots-clés: redistribution; politiques; mouvements sociaux; syndicats; Afrique du Sud
Emotional support and counselling for people with visual impairment: Quantitative findings from a mixed methods pilot study
Authors: Barr Wally , Hodge Suzanne , Leeven Martina , Bowen Louise , Knox Paul
Published: March 2012

Aims: This paper reports on mainly quantitative findings from a mixed methods evaluation of a new model of emotional support and counselling for people with moderate visual impairment. Method: The CORE Outcome Measure was completed with service users at baseline and post‐intervention to assess the impact of the new service on psychological wellbeing and social functioning. Their perceived needs and expectations of the service were also explored. Results: Of the 35 individuals providing data at each assessment time, mean item scores on the CORE fell significantly (p<.001), taking the sample from within a clinical population before therapy, to a mean score below this following therapy. A more positive outlook accompanied this improvement in functioning. Discussion: Findings from the study augment the growing evidence that emotional support and counselling services can play an important role alongside and within related vision services. Implications for practice: The study indicates that therapeutic input for the visually impaired client group may need to target both wellbeing (feelings about oneself and the future) and problems (depression, anxiety, physical health, and trauma). Conclusions: Our findings suggest that a dual model of emotional support and counselling offers considerable benefit for people with visual impairment.
Policy Diffusion and Innovation: Media and Experts in Colorado Recreational Water Rights
Authors: Crow Deserai A.
Published: March 2012

Beginning in 1998, an innovation in water rights policy took place in Colorado. This paper analyses the diffusion of the recreational in-channel water right policy innovation among Colorado communities. This research involved in-depth case studies in 12 Colorado communities. Data include interviews, legal and legislative documents, and mass media coverage. These new water rights spread among Colorado communities through two processes. First, experts acted as information entrepreneurs providing both technical and policy information to other communities. Through repetitive journalistic sourcing, media coverage spread the influence and reputation of certain experts who then influenced internal policy decisions in subsequent communities.
Reflections on Implementation Science
Authors: Gopalakrishnan Chennat , Okada Norio
Published: March 2012

This paper provides an original formulation of some of the key issues that we think are central to the effective implementation of integrated disaster risk management (IDRM). We tentatively call this focused effort “implementation science”. We define the term implementation science, in this context as a collective enterprise to develop a systematic body of knowledge (facts, empirical evidence, intuitions, insights, experience) on the causes and consequences of natural and human disasters, to analyse them systematically, and to successfully implement the resulting strategies in the prevention or mitigation of losses due to disasters. With this in view, we have identified and discussed in this paper some key elements of implementation science in the context of disaster management, both natural and man-made, based on a comprehensive review of important research and writing in the disaster management field.
Food Security of the Hill Tracts of Chittagong in Bangladesh
Authors: Majumder S. , Bala B.K. , Hossain M.A.
Published: March 2012

This paper presents the status of food security of the Hill Tracts of Chittagong in Bangladesh and the factors affecting household food security. Data were collected from primary and secondary sources and a multi-stage sampling was designed for selecting the farm households. A quantitative method is used for computation of food security at upazila (sub-district) level. Multiple logit regression models are fitted to the data on food security of the farmers to identify the factors affecting food security at household level. Overall status of food security at upazila level is good for all the upazilas except Rangamati Sadar. Logit analysis shows that household food security is significantly affected by farm size, types of inhabitants, professions and crops cultivated. Logit analysis also shows that transition from jhum to horticulture is significantly influenced by farm size, education and distance to market. It is concluded that transition from jhum to horticulture enhances food security.
A link between mitotic entry and membrane growth suggests a novel model for cell size control
Authors: Anastasia Steph D. , Nguyen Duy Linh , Thai Vu , Meloy Melissa , MacDonough Tracy , Kellogg Douglas R.
Published: March 2012

Addition of new membrane to the cell surface by membrane trafficking is necessary for cell growth. In this paper, we report that blocking membrane traffic causes a mitotic checkpoint arrest via Wee1-dependent inhibitory phosphorylation of Cdk1. Checkpoint signals are relayed by the Rho1 GTPase, protein kinase C (Pkc1), and a specific form of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2ACdc55). Signaling via this pathway is dependent on membrane traffic and appears to increase gradually during polar bud growth. We hypothesize that delivery of vesicles to the site of bud growth generates a signal that is proportional to the extent of polarized membrane growth and that the strength of the signal is read by downstream components to determine when sufficient growth has occurred for initiation of mitosis. Growth-dependent signaling could explain how membrane growth is integrated with cell cycle progression. It could also control both cell size and morphogenesis, thereby reconciling divergent models for mitotic checkpoint function.
Crystal structure of α5β1 integrin ectodomain: Atomic details of the fibronectin receptor
Authors: Nagae Masamichi , Re Suyong , Mihara Emiko , Nogi Terukazu , Sugita Yuji , Takagi Junichi
Published: March 2012

Integrin α5β1 is a major cellular receptor for the extracellular matrix protein fibronectin and plays a fundamental role during mammalian development. A crystal structure of the α5β1 integrin headpiece fragment bound by an allosteric inhibitory antibody was determined at a 2.9-Å resolution both in the absence and presence of a ligand peptide containing the Arg-Gly-Asp (RGD) sequence. The antibody-bound β1 chain accommodated the RGD ligand with very limited structural changes, which may represent the initial step of cell adhesion mediated by nonactivated integrins. Furthermore, a molecular dynamics simulation pointed to an important role for Ca2+ in the conformational coupling between the ligand-binding site and the rest of the molecule. The RGD-binding pocket is situated at the center of a trenchlike exposed surface on the top face of α5β1 devoid of glycosylation sites. The structure also enabled the precise prediction of the acceptor residue for the auxiliary synergy site of fibronectin on the α5 subunit, which was experimentally confirmed by mutagenesis and kinetic binding assays.
Naive T cells are dispensable for memory CD4+ T cell homeostasis in progressive simian immunodeficiency virus infection
Authors: Okoye Afam A. , Rohankhedkar Mukta , Abana Chike , Pattenn Audrie , Reyes Matthew , Pexton Christopher , Lum Richard , Sylwester Andrew , Planer Shannon L. , Legasse Alfred , Park Byung S. , Piatak Michael , Lifson Jeffrey D. , Axthelm Michael K. , Picker Louis J.
Published: March 2012

The development of AIDS in chronic HIV/simian immunodeficiency virus (SIV) infection has been closely linked to progressive failure of CD4+ memory T cell (TM) homeostasis. CD4+ naive T cells (TN) also decline in these infections, but their contribution to disease progression is less clear. We assessed the role of CD4+ TN in SIV pathogenesis using rhesus macaques (RMs) selectively and permanently depleted of CD4+ TN before SIV infection. CD4+ TN-depleted and CD4+ TN-repleted RMs were created by subjecting juvenile RMs to thymectomy versus sham surgery, respectively, followed by total CD4+ T cell depletion and recovery from this depletion. Although thymectomized and sham-treated RMs manifested comparable CD4+ TM recovery, only sham-treated RMs reconstituted CD4+ TN. CD4+ TN-depleted RMs responded to SIVmac239 infection with markedly attenuated SIV-specific CD4+ T cell responses, delayed SIVenv-specific Ab responses, and reduced SIV-specific CD8+ T cell responses. However, CD4+ TN-depleted and -repleted groups showed similar levels of SIV replication. Moreover, CD4+ TN deficiency had no significant effect on CD4+ TM homeostasis (either on or off anti-retroviral therapy) or disease progression. These data demonstrate that the CD4+ TN compartment is dispensable for CD4+ TM homeostasis in progressive SIV infection, and they confirm that CD4+ TM comprise a homeostatically independent compartment that is intrinsically capable of self-renewal.
Monocytes, neutrophils, and platelets cooperate to initiate and propagate venous thrombosis in mice in vivo
Authors: von Brühl Marie-Luise , Stark Konstantin , Steinhart Alexander , Chandraratne Sue , Konrad Ildiko , Lorenz Michael , Khandoga Alexander , Tirniceriu Anca , Coletti Raffaele , Köllnberger Maria , Byrne Robert A. , Laitinen Iina , Walch Axel , Brill Alexander , Pfeiler Susanne , Manukyan Davit , Braun Siegmund , Lange Philipp , Riegger Julia , Ware Jerry , Eckart Annekathrin , Haidari Selgai , Rudelius Martina , Schulz Christian , Echtler Katrin , Brinkmann Volker , Schwaiger Markus , Preissner Klaus T. , Wagner Denisa D. , Mackman Nigel , Engelmann Bernd , Massberg Steffen
Published: March 2012

Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a major cause of cardiovascular death. The sequence of events that promote DVT remains obscure, largely as a result of the lack of an appropriate rodent model. We describe a novel mouse model of DVT which reproduces a frequent trigger and resembles the time course, histological features, and clinical presentation of DVT in humans. We demonstrate by intravital two-photon and epifluorescence microscopy that blood monocytes and neutrophils crawling along and adhering to the venous endothelium provide the initiating stimulus for DVT development. Using conditional mutants and bone marrow chimeras, we show that intravascular activation of the extrinsic pathway of coagulation via tissue factor (TF) derived from myeloid leukocytes causes the extensive intraluminal fibrin formation characteristic of DVT. We demonstrate that thrombus-resident neutrophils are indispensable for subsequent DVT propagation by binding factor XII (FXII) and by supporting its activation through the release of neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs). Correspondingly, neutropenia, genetic ablation of FXII, or disintegration of NETs each confers protection against DVT amplification. Platelets associate with innate immune cells via glycoprotein Ibα and contribute to DVT progression by promoting leukocyte recruitment and stimulating neutrophil-dependent coagulation. Hence, we identified a cross talk between monocytes, neutrophils, and platelets responsible for the initiation and amplification of DVT and for inducing its unique clinical features.
The Impact of Financial Incentives on the Composition of Long‐term Care in Norway
Authors: Øien Henning , Karlsson Martin , Iversen Tor
Published: March 2012

In Norway, municipalities have economic incentives for choosing residential care in nursing homes for high‐income clients and home‐based care for low‐income clients. Using a three‐year panel, 2007‐2009, on 427 municipalities we provide an analysis of the effect of the Norwegian long‐term care (LTC) financing system on the composition of LTC services at the municipality level. Our main result is that the composition of service is determined by local government revenue and local need for LTC services. We cannot identify an effect of average income among older people in a municipality regarding the balance between home‐based care and nursing home care. Hence, the results do not provide evidence of a service distortion.
1001 Proteomes: a functional proteomics portal for the analysis of Arabidopsis thaliana accessions
Authors: Joshi Hiren J. , Christiansen Katy M. , Fitz Joffrey , Cao Jun , Lipzen Anna , Martin Joel , Smith-Moritz A. Michelle , Pennacchio Len A. , Schackwitz Wendy S. , Weigel Detlef , Heazlewood Joshua L.
Published: March 2012

Motivation: The sequencing of over a thousand natural strains of the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana is producing unparalleled information at the genetic level for plant researchers. To enable the rapid exploitation of these data for functional proteomics studies, we have created a resource for the visualization of protein information and proteomic datasets for sequenced natural strains of A. thaliana.

Results: The 1001 Proteomes portal can be used to visualize amino acid substitutions or non-synonymous single-nucleotide polymorphisms in individual proteins of A. thaliana based on the reference genome Col-0. We have used the available processed sequence information to analyze the conservation of known residues subject to protein phosphorylation among these natural strains. The substitution of amino acids in A. thaliana natural strains is heavily constrained and is likely a result of the conservation of functional attributes within proteins. At a practical level, we demonstrate that this information can be used to clarify ambiguously defined phosphorylation sites from phosphoproteomic studies. Protein sets of available natural variants are available for download to enable proteomic studies on these accessions. Together this information can be used to uncover the possible roles of specific amino acids in determining the structure and function of proteins in the model plant A. thaliana. An online portal to enable the community to exploit these data can be accessed at http://1001proteomes.masc-proteomics.org/

Contact:  jlheazlewood@lbl.gov

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
ADMIT: a toolbox for guaranteed model invalidation, estimation and qualitative–quantitative modeling
Authors: Streif Stefan , Savchenko Anton , Rumschinski Philipp , Borchers Steffen , Findeisen Rolf
Published: March 2012

Summary: Often competing hypotheses for biochemical networks exist in the form of different mathematical models with unknown parameters. Considering available experimental data, it is then desired to reject model hypotheses that are inconsistent with the data, or to estimate the unknown parameters. However, these tasks are complicated because experimental data are typically sparse, uncertain, and are frequently only available in form of qualitative if–then observations. ADMIT (Analysis, Design and Model Invalidation Toolbox) is a MatLabTM-based tool for guaranteed model invalidation, state and parameter estimation. The toolbox allows the integration of quantitative measurement data, a priori knowledge of parameters and states, and qualitative information on the dynamic or steady-state behavior. A constraint satisfaction problem is automatically generated and algorithms are implemented for solving the desired estimation, invalidation or analysis tasks. The implemented methods built on convex relaxation and optimization and therefore provide guaranteed estimation results and certificates for invalidity.

Availability: ADMIT, tutorials and illustrative examples are available free of charge for non-commercial use at http://ifatwww.et.uni-magdeburg.de/syst/ADMIT/

Contact:  stefan.streif@ovgu.de
Improvement of Sponge Cake Baking Test Procedure for Simple and Reliable Estimation of Soft White Wheat Quality
Authors: Choi Hyun‐Wook , Harris Tracy , Baik Byung‐Kee
Published: March 2012

The sponge cake baking test is accepted and routinely used as a standard quality evaluation tool of soft white wheat for Asian markets, but its lengthy and laborious procedure makes it unsuitable for the routine evaluation of a large number of wheat breeding lines. We simplified the sponge cake baking procedure in the egg‐whipping step and improved its consistency by replacement of the hand mixing of cake batter with mechanical mixing, using a wire whisk or a BeaterBlade paddle. Egg whipping and mechanical batter mixing conditions were optimized by comparing foam density, sponge cake volume, and crumb grain to those obtained by the conventional procedure. Foam density, sponge cake volume, and crumb grain comparable to the conventional 100 g flour procedure were obtained with modifications, including extension of whipping time without heat input using a 5 L KitchenAid mixer, one‐time water addition at 3 min before the completion of egg whipping instead of twice, as in the conventional procedure, and cake batter mixing with a KitchenAid wire whisk or a BeaterBlade paddle. For baking a 50 g flour cake, egg foam of appropriate density was obtained with increased whipping speed and shortened egg‐whipping time (8 min). The modified sponge cake baking procedure yielded egg‐foam density, cake volume, and crumb grain similar to the conventional procedure and effectively differentiated soft wheat flours of different quality. Sponge cake volume of 14 soft white wheat flours ranged from 1,134 to 1,426 mL with the conventional procedure, from 1,113 to 1,333 mL with the modified procedure of batter mixing with a wire whisk, from 1,108 to 1,360 mL with the modified procedure of batter mixing with a BeaterBlade paddle, and from 577 to 719 mL with the modified method of 50 g of flour and batter mixing with a wire whisk. The modified methods with the BeaterBlade paddle and wire whisk exhibited significant correlation in cake volume with a conventional procedure (r = 0.931, P < 0.001 and r = 0.925, P < 0.001, respectively).
An Evaluation of Cucurbits for Susceptibility to Cucurbitaceous and SolanaceousPhytophthora capsiciisolates
Authors: Enzenbacher T. B. , Hausbeck M. K.
Published: March 2012

Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and squash (Cucurbita spp.) production in Michigan is limited by the oomycete pathogen Phytophthora capsici. Cucumber, summer squash, and winter squash fruit were evaluated for susceptibility to five isolates of P. capsici. Detached fruit were inoculated with a 5-mm-diameter culture plug of mycelia and sporangia and were incubated in a laboratory or greenhouse. Lesion and pathogen growth diameters were measured and pathogen growth density was visually assessed. All P. capsici isolates incited rot, with significant differences found among fruit type and pathogen isolate. Straightneck squash (Cucurbita pepo), slicing cucumber, and butternut squash (C. moschata) exhibited more severe symptoms than the other fruit tested. Summer and winter squash seedlings were evaluated in greenhouse experiments, in which P. capsici-infested millet seed (approximately 1 g) were placed on the surface of soilless potting media. Disease severity was visually assessed every 2 days for 14 days post inoculation. Crop type, pathogen isolate, or the crop type–pathogen isolate interaction term were significant for symptom appearance and area under the disease progress curve values. Differences in susceptibility of butternut squash and zucchini cultivars were observed following inoculation with solanaceous isolate 13351. Results from this study can refine management programs for Phytophthora rot.
Cyclooctanaminium hydrogen succinate monohydrate
Authors: Khorasani Sanaz , Fernandes Manuel A.
Published: March 2012

In the title hydrated salt, C8H18N+·C4H5O4−·H2O, the cyclooctyl ring of the cation is disordered over two positions in a 0.833 (3):0.167 (3) ratio. The structure contains various O—H.·O and N—H...O interactions, forming a hydrogen-bonded layer of molecules perpendicular to thecaxis. In each layer, the ammonium cation hydrogen bonds to two hydrogen succinate anions and one water molecule. Each hydrogen succinate anion hydrogen bonds to neighbouring anions, forming a chain of molecules along thebaxis. In addition, each hydrogen succinate anion hydrogen bonds to two water molecules and the ammonium cation.
N′-Cyclododecylidenepyridine-4-carbohydrazide
Authors: Lemmerer Andreas , Bernstein Joel , Kahlenberg Volker
Published: March 2012

The title compound, C18H27N3O, is a derivative of the antituberculosis drug isoniazid (systematic name: pyridine-4-carbohydrazidei). The crystal structure consists of repeatingC(4) chains along thebaxis, formed by N—H...O hydrogen bonds with adjacent amide functional groups that are related by ab-glide plane. The cyclododecyl ring has the same approximately `square' conformation, as seen in the parent hydrocarbon cyclododecane.
Dicarbonyl{3,3′-di-tert-butyl-5,5′-dimethoxy-2,2′-bis[(4,4,5,5-tetraphenyl-1,3,2-dioxaphospholan-2-yl)oxy-κP]biphenyl}hydridorhodium(I) diethyl ether monosolvate
Authors: Selent Detlef , Spannenberg Anke , Börner Armin
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, [Rh(C74H68O8P2)H(CO)2]·C4H10O, the C2HP2coordination set at the RhIion is arranged in a distorted trigonal–planar geometry with one P atom of the diphosphite molecule and the H atom adopting the axial coordination sites.
(Z)-1-(2,4-Difluorophenyl)-3-(4-fluorophenyl)-2-(1H-1,2,4-triazol-1-yl)prop-2-en-1-one
Authors: Yin Ben-Tao , Lv Jing-Song , Wang Yan , Zhou Cheng-He
Published: March 2012

In the title molecule, C17H10F3N3O, the C=C bond connecting the triazole ring and 4-fluorophenyl groups adopts aZconformation. The triazole ring forms dihedral angles of 15.3 (1) and 63.5 (1)°, with the 2,4-difluoro-substituted and 4-fluoro-substituted benzene rings, respectively. The dihedral angle between the two benzene rings is 51.8 (1)°.
2-Methyl-1-(4-methylphenylsulfonyl)naphtho[2,1-b]furan
Authors: Choi Hong Dae , Seo Pil Ja , Lee Uk
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, C20H16O3S, the 4-methylphenyl ring makes a dihedral angle of 83.07 (3)° with the mean plane [r.m.s. deviation = 0.020 (1) Å] of the naphthofuran fragment. In the crystal, molecules are linked by weak C—H...O and C—H...π interactions.
(3,5-Dimethylphenyl)[8-(3,5-dimethylbenzoyl)-2,7-dimethoxynaphthalen-1-yl]methanone
Authors: Muto Toyokazu , Sasagawa Kosuke , Okamoto Akiko , Oike Hideaki , Yonezawa Noriyuki
Published: March 2012

In the title molecule, C30H28O4, the interplanar angle between the two benzene rings of the 3,5-dimethylbenzoyl groups is 50.35 (7)°. The dihedral angles between the two benzene rings and the naphthalene ring system are 81.87 (6) and 83.55 (6)°. In addition, the conformations of the pairs of methyl groups and their counterparts differ from each other though their environment is very similar. In the crystal, weak C—H...O interactions occur.
Pentaaqua(4,6-dihydroxybenzene-1,3-disulfonato-κO1)zinc pentahydrate
Authors: Zhu Zhi-Biao , Gao Shan , Ng Seik Weng , Tiekink Edward R. T.
Published: March 2012

The ZnIIatom in the title complex, [Zn(C6H4O8S2)(H2O)5]·5H2O, is coordinated by five water molecules and an O atom of a 4,6-dihydroxybenzene-1,3-disulfonate dianion. The coordination geometry is distorted octahedral, with the Zn—Osulfonatebond relatively long compared to the Zn—Owaterbonds. The coordinated and lattice water molecules interact with each other and with the hydroxy groups and sulfonate ligand through O—H...O hydrogen bonds, generating a tightly held three-dimensional network.
4β-Hydroxy-12,13-epoxytrichothec-9-ene
Authors: Mao Bi-Zeng , Huang Chao , Chen Yu-Zhe , Lv Zhen-Er , Chen Shao-Yuan
Published: March 2012

The asymmetric unit in the crystal of the title compound, C15H22O3, contains two independent molecules with similar structures. Each molecule contains two six-membered rings and one five-membered ring. The five-membered ring displays an envelope conformation with the C atom linking the epoxy group as the flap, while the two six-membered rings show half-chair conformations. The two independent molecules are linked by an O—H...O hydrogen bond. These dimers are further linked by O—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming supramolecular chains running along theaaxis.
5α-Hydroxyeudesm-4(15),11(13)-dien-8β,12-olide
Authors: Gao Xue , Chen Gang
Published: March 2012

The title compound, C15H20O3, a sesquiterpene lactone, was isolated from the aerial parts ofCarpesium minusHemsl. (Compositae). The molecule is composed of three rings, with the two cyclohexane rings in chair conformations and the cyclopentane ring adopting a twist conformation. TheA/Bring junction istrans-fused. The absolute configuration shown has been arbitrarily assigned. In the crystal, molecules are linked into [100] chains by O—H...O hydrogen bonds.
Methyl 4′,5-dichloro-2-hydroxy-4,6-dimethylbiphenyl-3-carboxylate
Authors: Adeel Muhammad , Langer Peter , Hein Martin , Reinke Helmut
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, C16H14Cl2O3, the dihedral angle between the mean planes of the two benzene rings is 55.30 (5)°. The methyl ester group lies within the ring plane due to an intramolecular O—H...O hydrogen bond [maximum deviation from the C8O2mean plane is 0.0383 (13) Å]. In the crystal, molecules are held together by rather weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds.
2-(2-Methyl-5-nitro-1H-imidazol-1-yl)ethyl 2-bromobenzoate
Authors: Zeb Aurang , Yousuf Sammer , Basha Fatima Z.
Published: March 2012

In the title compound, C13H12BrN3O4, the dihedral angle between the benzene and imidazole rings is 30.6 (2)°. In the crystal, molecules are linked into chains parallel to [001] by C—H...O hydrogen bonds. The crystal packing is further consolidated by π–π interactions [centroid–centroid distance = 3.482 (2) Å].
Seasonal diet and prey selection of black‐backed jackals on a small‐livestock farm inSouthAfrica
Authors: Kamler Jan F. , Klare Unn , Macdonald David W.
Published: March 2012

The extent to which black‐backed jackals (Canis mesomelas) selectively consume domestic sheep (Ovis aries) compared to wild prey is unknown. Using faecal analysis and prey surveys, we determined the seasonal diet and prey selection of jackals on a small‐livestock farm inSouthAfrica. Sheep comprised 25–48% of the biomass consumed by jackals across seasons, and consumption peaked during the lambing seasons, indicating sheep often were the main food resource for jackals. Another main food resource was wild ungulates <50 kg, primarily springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis) and steenbok (Raphicerus campestris), which comprised 8–47% of the biomass consumed. Other important food items were mammals 1–3 kg (4–16%), which included hares (Lepusspp.) and springhares (Pedetes capensis), and small rodents (10–14%). Compared to the biomass available, jackals selectively consumed mammals 1–3 kg over sheep across all seasons, whereas wild ungulates <50 kg were selectively consumed over sheep in most seasons. Our results showed that jackals selectively consumed different food items throughout the year and that wild prey were consistently selected over sheep.
Randomised clinical trial: enteral nutrition does not improve the long‐term outcome of alcoholic cirrhotic patients with jaundice
Authors: Dupont B. , Dao T. , Joubert C. , Dupont‐Lucas C. , Gloro R. , Nguyen‐Khac E. , Beaujard E. , Mathurin P. , Vastel E. , Musikas M. , Ollivier I. , Piquet M.‐A.
Published: March 2012

Background

Malnutrition and jaundice are independent prognostic factors in cirrhosis.

Aim

To assess the impact of enteral nutrition on the survival of alcoholic cirrhotic patients with jaundice but without acute alcoholic hepatitis.

Methods

The study was a multicentre prospective randomised controlled trial comparing effects of enteral nutrition vs. a symptomatic support in patients with alcoholic cirrhosis and jaundice (bilirubin ≥51 µmol/L) but without severe acute alcoholic hepatitis. A total of 99 patients were randomised to receive either the conventional symptomatic treatment (55 patients) or the symptomatic support associated with 35 kcal/Kg/day of enteral nutrition during 4 weeks followed by an oral nutritional support during 2 months (44 patients). Randomisation was stratified on nutritional status. One‐year survival curves were compared using the Kaplan–Meier method and Logrank test.

Results

Populations in both arms were similar. One‐year survival was similar in the overall population (27/44 patients (61.4%) in the enteral nutrition arm vs. 36/55 (65.5%) in the control arm; Logrank P = 0.60) and in the subgroup suffering from malnutrition [18/29 patients (62.1%) in the enteral nutrition arm vs. 20/32 (62.5%) in the control arm; Logrank P = 0.99]. There was no statistical difference for bilirubin, prothrombin rate, Child‐Pugh score, albumin or nutritional assessment. Complications during treatment (bleeding, encephalopathy, infection) occurred in 23% of patients in the enteral nutrition group (10/44) vs. 16% (9/55) of the control patients (P = 0.59).

Conclusion

Enteral nutrition does not improve the survival and hepatic or nutritional parameters of cirrhotic patients with jaundice.
The impact of pre‐operative focused transthoracic echocardiography in emergency non‐cardiac surgery patients with known or risk of cardiac disease
Authors: Canty D. J. , Royse C. F. , Kilpatrick D. , Williams D. L. , Royse A. G.
Published: March 2012

This prospective observational study investigated the effect of focused transthoracic echocardiography in 99 patients who had suspected cardiac disease or were ≥ 65 years old, and were scheduled for emergency non‐cardiac surgery. The treating anaesthetist completed a diagnosis and management plan before and after transthoracic echocardiography, which was performed by an independent operator. Clinical examination rated cardiac disease present in 75%; the remainder were asymptomatic. The cardiac diagnosis was changed in 67% and the management plan in 44% of patients after echocardiography. Cardiac disease was identified by echocardiography in 64% of patients, which led to a step‐up of treatment in 36% (4% delay for cardiology referral, 2% altered surgery, 4% intensive care and 26% intra‐operative haemodynamic management changes). Absence of cardiac disease in 36% resulted in a step‐down of treatment in 8% (no referral 3%, intensive care 1% or haemodynamic treatment 4%). Pre‐operative focused transthoracic echocardiography in patients admitted for emergency surgery and with known cardiac disease or suspected to be at risk of cardiac disease frequently alters diagnosis and management.
A European approach to categorizing medicines for fitness to drive: outcomes of the DRUID project
Authors: Ravera Silvia , Monteiro Susana P. , de Gier Johan Jacob , van der Linden Trudy , Gómez‐Talegón Trinidad , Álvarez F. Javier ,   the DRUID Project WP4 Partners
Published: March 2012

WHAT IS ALREADY KNOWN ABOUT THIS SUBJECT

• Some commonly prescribed medications can be a hazardous to traffic safety.

• Fifteen categorization systems are currently available in Europe. However, none of these systems clearly reports the methodology that was followed in order to categorize medications that impair driving.

• None of the existing categorization systems are currently implemented at European level.

WHAT THIS STUDY ADDS

• This study describes standardized and harmonized criteria to categorize medications according to their potential to impair fitness to drive.

• This study proposes a European categorization system of medications that impair driving that covers all the most frequently prescribed medications.

• The proposed categorization system can be seen as a tool to improve prescribing and dispensing procedures of medications that impair driving as well as an instrument to make patients aware of the role medications play in traffic safety.

AIMS To illustrate (i) the criteria and the development of the DRUID categorization system, (ii) the number of medicines that have currently been categorized, (iii) the added value of the DRUID categorization system and (iv) the next steps in the implementation of the DRUID system.

METHODS The development of the DRUID categorization system was based on several criteria. The following steps were considered: (i) conditions of use of the medicine, (ii) pharmacodynamic and pharmacokinetic data, (iii) pharmacovigilance data, including prevalence of undesirable effects, (iv) experimental and epidemiological data, (v) additional data derived from the patient information leaflet, existing categorization systems and (vi) final categorization. DRUID proposed four tiered categories for medicines and driving.

RESULTS In total, 3054 medicines were reviewed and over 1541 medicines were categorized (the rest were no longer on the EU market). Nearly half of the 1541 medicines were categorized 0 (no or negligible influence on fitness to drive), about 26% were placed in category I (minor influence on fitness to drive) and 17% were categorized as II or III (moderate or severe influence on fitness to drive).

CONCLUSIONS The current DRUID categorization system established and defined standardized and harmonized criteria to categorize commonly used medications, based on their influence on fitness to drive. Further efforts are needed to implement the DRUID categorization system at a European level and further activities should be undertaken in order to reinforce the awareness of health care professionals and patients on the effects of medicines on fitness to drive.
The status of pharmacometrics in pregnancy: highlights from the 3rd American conference on pharmacometrics
Authors: van Hasselt J. G. Coen , Andrew Marilee A. , Hebert Mary F. , Tarning Joel , Vicini Paolo , Mattison Donald R.
Published: March 2012

Physiological changes during pregnancy may alter drug pharmacokinetics. Therefore, mechanistic understanding of these changes and, ultimately, clinical studies in pregnant women are necessary to determine if and how dosing regimens should be adjusted. Because of the typically limited number of patients who can be recruited in this patient group, efficient design and analysis of these studies is of special relevance. This paper is a summary of a conference session organized at the American Conference of Pharmacometrics in April 2011, around the topic of applying pharmacometric methodology to this important problem. The discussion included both design and analysis of clinical studies during pregnancy and in silico predictions. An overview of different pharmacometric methods relevant to this subject was given. The impact of pharmacometrics was illustrated using a range of case examples of studies around pregnancy.
Stimulated erythropoiesis with secondary iron loading leads to a decrease in hepcidin despite an increase in bone morphogenetic protein 6 expression
Authors: Frazer David M. , Wilkins Sarah J. , Darshan Deepak , Badrick Alison C. , McLaren Gordon D. , Anderson Gregory J.
Published: March 2012

The BMP/SMAD signalling pathway plays an important role in iron homeostasis, regulating hepcidin expression in response to body iron levels. However, the role of this pathway in the reduction in hepcidin associated with increased erythropoiesis (and secondary iron loading) is unclear. To investigate this, we established a mouse model of chronic stimulated erythropoiesis with secondary iron loading using the haemolytic agent phenylhydrazine. We then examined the expression of components of the BMP6/SMAD signalling pathway in these animals. We also examined this pathway in the Hbbth3/+ mouse, a model of the iron loading anaemia β‐thalassaemia intermedia. Increasing doses of phenylhydrazine led to a progressive increase in both liver iron levels and Bmp6 mRNA expression, but, in contrast, hepatic Hamp expression declined. The increase in Bmp6 expression was not associated with a corresponding change in the phosphorylation of hepatic SMAD1/5/8, indicating that stimulated erythropoiesis decreases the ability of BMP6 to alter SMAD phosphorylation. Increased erythropoiesis also reduces the capacity of phosphorylated SMAD (pSMAD) to induce hepcidin, as Hamp levels declined despite no changes in pSMAD1/5/8. Similar results were seen in Hbbth3/+ mice. Thus the erythroid signal probably affects some components of BMP/SMAD signalling, but also may exert some independent effects.
Prey naivety in the behavioural responses of juvenile Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) to an invasive predator
Authors: KUEHNE LAUREN M. , OLDEN JULIAN D.
Published: March 2012

1. Non‐native predators might inflict proportionally higher mortality on prey that have no previous experience of them, compared to species that have coexisted with the predator for some time.

2. We tested whether juvenile Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) were less able to recognise a non‐native than a native predator, by investigating behavioural responses to the chemical cues of the invasive smallmouth bass (Micropterus dolomieu) and the native northern pikeminnow (Ptychocheilus oregonensis) in both laboratory and field experiments.

3. Laboratory results demonstrated strong innate antipredator responses of individual juvenile Chinook salmon to northern pikeminnow; fish spent 70% of time motionless and exhibited 100% greater panic response than in controls. By contrast, antipredator responses to the chemical cues of smallmouth bass did not differ from controls.

4. These results were supported by similar differences in recognition of these predator odours by groups of juvenile Chinook salmon in fully natural conditions, though responses reflected a greater range of antipredator behaviours by individuals. In field trials, responses to northern pikeminnow odour resulted in increased flight or absence, reductions in swimming and foraging, and increased time spent near the substratum, compared to smallmouth bass odour.

5. Given that survival of juvenile fish is facilitated by predator recognition, our results support the hypothesis that naivety may be an important factor determining the effect of non‐native predators on prey populations. Efforts to manage the effect of native and non‐native predators may benefit by considering complex behavioural interactions, such as these at the individual and group levels.
Shifts in phytoplankton species richness and biomass along a latitudinal gradient – consequences for relationships between biodiversity and ecosystem functioning
Authors: WEYHENMEYER GESA A. , PETER HANNES , WILLÉN EVA
Published: March 2012

1. Analysing phytoplankton community data from 205 small, mainly oligotrophic Swedish lakes along a 13° latitudinal gradient, we found that the duration of the open‐water season (DT > 0) was best related to phytoplankton species richness and biomass, probably because DT > 0 can be used as a proxy for nutrient concentrations, as well as for light and temperature conditions in lakes.

2. The relationships between DT > 0 and phytoplankton species richness and biomass were not linear but showed significant shifts, that is, richness suddenly doubled at DT > 0 = 170 days and phytoplankton biomass began to strongly increase at DT > 0 around 220 days.

3. The doubling in species richness corresponded to a change in the seasonal plankton succession from one to two peaks per year, and the shift in biomass corresponded to a shift in nutrient concentrations.

4. The geographical differences in richness and biomass shifts resulted in an exponential biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationship along a DT > 0 gradient.

5. We conclude that phytoplankton species richness and biomass are driven by different environmental factors, resulting in a nonlinear biodiversity–ecosystem functioning relationship. The shape of the diversity–functioning relationship varies along with variations in environmental drivers, which is of highest importance for ongoing discussions about impacts of global change on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning.
High predictability of spring phytoplankton biomass in mesocosms at the species, functional group and community level
Authors: BAUER BARBARA , SOMMER ULRICH , GAEDKE URSULA
Published: March 2012

1. Models aim to predict phytoplankton dynamics based on observed initial conditions and a set of equations and parameters. However, our knowledge about initial conditions in nature is never perfect. Thus, if phytoplankton dynamics are sensitive to small variations in initial conditions, they are difficult to predict.

2. We used time‐series data from indoor mesocosm experiments with natural phyto‐ and zooplankton communities to quantify the extent to which small initial differences in the species, functional group and community biomass in parallel treatments were amplified or buffered over time. We compared the differences in dynamics between replicates and among all mesocosms of 1 year.

3. Temperature‐sensitive grazing during the exponential growth phase of phytoplankton caused divergence. In contrast, negative density dependence caused convergence.

4. Mean differences in biomass between replicates were similar for all hierarchical levels. This indicates that differences in their initial conditions were amplified to the same extent. Even though large differences in biomass occasionally occurred between replicates for a short time, dynamics returned to the same path at all hierarchical levels. This suggests that internal feedback mechanisms make the spring development of phytoplankton highly predictable.