bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kainate Receptor-Induced Retrograde Inhibition of Glutamatergic Transmission in Vasopressin Neurons
Authors: Bonfardin Valérie D. J. , Theodosis Dionysia T. , Konnerth Arthur , Oliet Stéphane H. R.
Published: January 2012

Presynaptic kainate receptors (KARs) exert a modulatory action on transmitter release. We here report that applications of agonists of GluK1-containing KARs in the rat supraoptic nucleus has an opposite action on glutamatergic transmission according to the phenotype of the postsynaptic neuron. Whereas glutamate release was facilitated in oxytocin (OT) neurons, it was inhibited in vasopressin (VP) cells. Interestingly, an antagonist of GluK1-containing KARs caused an inhibition of glutamate release in both OT and VP neurons, revealing the existence of tonically activated presynaptic KARs that are positively coupled to transmitter release. We thus postulated that the inhibition of glutamate release observed with exogenous applications of GluK1 agonists on VP neurons could be indirect. In agreement with this hypothesis, we first showed that functional GluK1-containing KARs were present postsynaptically on VP neurons but not on OT cells. We next showed that the inhibitory effect induced by exogenous GluK1 receptor agonist was compromised when BAPTA was added in the recording pipette to buffer intracellular Ca2+and block the release of a putative retrograde messenger. Under these conditions, GluK1-containing KAR agonist facilitates glutamatergic transmission in VP neurons in a manner similar to that observed for OT neurons and that resulted from the activation of presynaptic GluK1 receptors. GluK1-mediated inhibition of glutamate release in VP neurons was also blocked by a κ-opioid receptor antagonist. These findings suggest that activation of postsynaptic GluK1-containing KARs on VP neurons leads to the release of dynorphin, which in turn acts on presynaptic κ-opioid receptors to inhibit glutamate release.
Renshaw Cells and Ia Inhibitory Interneurons Are Generated at Different Times from p1 Progenitors and Differentiate Shortly after Exiting the Cell Cycle
Authors: Benito-Gonzalez Ana , Alvarez Francisco J.
Published: January 2012

Spinal interneurons modulating motor output are highly diverse but surprisingly arise from just a few embryonic subgroups. The principles governing their development, diversification, and integration into spinal circuits are unknown. This study focuses on the differentiation of adult Renshaw cells (RCs) and Ia inhibitory interneurons (IaINs), two subclasses that respectively mediate recurrent and reciprocal inhibition of motoneurons from embryonic V1 interneurons (V1-INs). V1-INs originate from p1 progenitors and, after they become postmitotic, specifically express the transcription factor engrailed-1, a property that permits genetic labeling of V1 lineages from embryo to adult. RCs and IaINs are V1 derived, but differ in morphology, location, calcium-binding protein expression, synaptic connectivity, and function. These differences are already present in neonates, and in this study we show that their differentiation starts in the early embryo. Using 5′-bromodeoxyuridine birth dating we established that mouse V1-INs can be divided into early (E9.5-E10.5) and late (E11.5-E12.5) groups generated from the p1 domain (where E is embryonic day). The early group upregulates calbindin expression soon after becoming postmitotic and includes RCs, which express the transcription factor MafB during early differentiation and maintain calbindin expression throughout life. The late group includes IaINs, are calbindin-negative, and express FoxP2 at the start of differentiation. Moreover, developing RCs follow a characteristic circumferential migratory route that places them in unique relationship with motor axons with whom they later synaptically interact. We conclude that the fate of these V1-IN subclasses is determined before synaptogenesis and circuit formation by a process that includes differences in neurogenesis time, transcription factor expression, and migratory pathways.
Single Neuron Firing Properties Impact Correlation-Based Population Coding
Authors: Hong Sungho , Ratté Stéphanie , Prescott Steven A. , De Schutter Erik
Published: January 2012

Correlated spiking has been widely observed, but its impact on neural coding remains controversial. Correlation arising from comodulation of rates across neurons has been shown to vary with the firing rates of individual neurons. This translates into rate and correlation being equivalently tuned to the stimulus; under those conditions, correlated spiking does not provide information beyond that already available from individual neuron firing rates. Such correlations are irrelevant and can reduce coding efficiency by introducing redundancy. Using simulations and experiments in rat hippocampal neurons, we show here that pairs of neurons receiving correlated input also exhibit correlations arising from precise spike-time synchronization. Contrary to rate comodulation, spike-time synchronization is unaffected by firing rate, thus enabling synchrony- and rate-based coding to operate independently. The type of output correlation depends on whether intrinsic neuron properties promote integration or coincidence detection: “ideal” integrators (with spike generation sensitive to stimulus mean) exhibit rate comodulation, whereas ideal coincidence detectors (with spike generation sensitive to stimulus variance) exhibit precise spike-time synchronization. Pyramidal neurons are sensitive to both stimulus mean and variance, and thus exhibit both types of output correlation proportioned according to which operating mode is dominant. Our results explain how different types of correlations arise based on how individual neurons generate spikes, and why spike-time synchronization and rate comodulation can encode different stimulus properties. Our results also highlight the importance of neuronal properties for population-level coding insofar as neural networks can employ different coding schemes depending on the dominant operating mode of their constituent neurons.
The α1K276E Startle Disease Mutation Reveals Multiple Intermediate States in the Gating of Glycine Receptors
Authors: Lape Remigijus , Plested Andrew J. R. , Moroni Mirko , Colquhoun David , Sivilotti Lucia G.
Published: January 2012

Loss-of-function mutations in human glycine receptors cause hyperekplexia, a rare inherited disease associated with an exaggerated startle response. We have studied a human disease mutation in the M2–M3 loop of the glycine receptor α1 subunit (K276E) using direct fitting of mechanisms to single-channel recordings with the program HJCFIT. Whole-cell recordings from HEK293 cells showed the mutation reduced the receptor glycine sensitivity. In single-channel recordings, rat homomeric α1 K276E receptors were barely active, even at 200 mmglycine. Coexpression of the β subunit partially rescued channel function. Heteromeric mutant channels opened in brief bursts at 300 μmglycine (a concentration that is near-maximal for wild type) and reached a maximum one-channel open probability of about 45% at 100 mmglycine (compared to 96% for wild type). Distributions of apparent open times contained more than one component in high glycine and, therefore, could not be described by mechanisms with only one fully liganded open state. Fits to the data were much better with mechanisms in which opening can also occur from more than one fully liganded intermediate (e.g., “primed” models). Brief pulses of glycine (∼3 ms, 30 mm) applied to mutant channels in outside-out patches activated currents with a slower rise time (1.5 ms) than those of wild-type channels (0.2 ms) and a much faster decay. These features were predicted reasonably well by the mechanisms obtained from fitting single-channel data. Our results show that, by slowing and impairing channel gating, the K276E mutation facilitates the detection of closed reaction intermediates in the activation pathway of glycine channels.
Gustatory Receptors Required for Avoiding the Insecticide l-Canavanine
Authors: Lee Youngseok , Kang Min Jung , Shim Jaewon , Cheong Chae Uk , Moon Seok Jun , Montell Craig
Published: January 2012

Insect survival depends on contact chemosensation to sense and avoid consuming plant-derived insecticides, such asl-canavanine. Members of a family of ∼60 gustatory receptors (GRs) comprise the main peripheral receptors responsible for taste sensation inDrosophila. However, the roles of mostDrosophilaGRs are unknown. In addition to GRs, a G protein-coupled receptor, DmXR, has been reported to be required for detectingl-canavanine. Here, we showed that GRs are essential for responding tol-canavanine and that flies missing DmXR displayed normall-canavanine avoidance andl-canavanine-evoked action potentials. Mutations disrupting eitherGr8aorGr66aresulted in an inability to detectl-canavanine. We found thatl-canavanine stimulated action potentials in S-type sensilla, which were whereGr8aandGr66awere both expressed, but not inGr66a-expressing sensilla that did not expressGr8a.l-canavanine-induced action potentials were also abolished in theGr8aandGr66amutant animals.Gr8awas narrowly required for responding tol-canavanine, in contrast toGr66a, which was broadly required for responding to other noxious tastants. Our data suggest that GR8a and GR66a are subunits of anl-canavanine receptor and that GR8a contributes to the specificity forl-canavanine.
The Frequency of Visually Induced Gamma-Band Oscillations Depends on the Size of Early Human Visual Cortex
Authors: Schwarzkopf D. Samuel , Robertson David J. , Song Chen , Barnes Gareth R. , Rees Geraint
Published: January 2012

The structural and functional architecture of the human brain is characterized by considerable variability, which has consequences for visual perception. However, the neurophysiological events mediating the relationship between interindividual differences in cortical surface area and visual perception have, until now, remained unknown. Here, we show that the retinotopically defined surface areas of central V1 and V2 are correlated with the peak frequency of visually induced oscillations in the gamma band, as measured with magnetoencephalography. Gamma-band oscillations are thought to play an important role in visual processing. We propose that individual differences in macroscopic gamma frequency may be attributed to interindividual variability in the microscopic architecture of visual cortex.
Increased Excitatory Synaptic Input to Granule Cells from Hilar and CA3 Regions in a Rat Model of Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
Authors: Zhang Wei , Huguenard John R. , Buckmaster Paul S.
Published: January 2012

One potential mechanism of temporal lobe epilepsy is recurrent excitation of dentate granule cells through aberrant sprouting of their axons (mossy fibers), which is found in many patients and animal models. However, correlations between the extent of mossy fiber sprouting and seizure frequency are weak. Additional potential sources of granule cell recurrent excitation that would not have been detected by markers of mossy fiber sprouting in previous studies include surviving mossy cells and proximal CA3 pyramidal cells. To test those possibilities in hippocampal slices from epileptic pilocarpine-treated rats, laser-scanning glutamate uncaging was used to randomly and focally activate neurons in the granule cell layer, hilus, and proximal CA3 pyramidal cell layer while measuring evoked EPSCs in normotopic granule cells. Consistent with mossy fiber sprouting, a higher proportion of glutamate-uncaging spots in the granule cell layer evoked EPSCs in epileptic rats compared with controls. In addition, stimulation spots in the hilus and proximal CA3 pyramidal cell layer were more likely to evoke EPSCs in epileptic rats, despite significant neuron loss in those regions. Furthermore, synaptic strength of recurrent excitatory inputs to granule cells from CA3 pyramidal cells and other granule cells was increased in epileptic rats. These findings reveal substantial levels of excessive, recurrent, excitatory synaptic input to granule cells from neurons in the hilus and proximal CA3 field. The aberrant development of these additional positive-feedback circuits might contribute to epileptogenesis in temporal lobe epilepsy.
Interleukin-17A Increases Neurite Outgrowth from Adult Postganglionic Sympathetic Neurons
Authors: Chisholm Susan P. , Cervi Andrea L. , Nagpal Simrin , Lomax Alan E.
Published: January 2012

Inflammation can profoundly alter the structure and function of the nervous system. Interleukin (IL)-17 has been implicated in the pathogenesis of several inflammatory diseases associated with nervous system plasticity. However, the effects of IL-17 on the nervous system remain unexplored. Cell and explant culture techniques, immunohistochemistry, electrophysiology, and Ca2+imaging were used to examine the impact of IL-17 on adult mouse sympathetic neurons. Receptors for IL-17 were present on postganglionic neurons from superior mesenteric ganglia (SMG). Supernatant from activated splenic T lymphocytes, which was abundant in IL-17, dramatically enhanced axonal length of SMG neurons. Importantly, IL-17-neutralizing antiserum abrogated the neurotrophic effect of splenocyte supernatant, and incubation of SMG neurons in IL-17 (1 ng/ml) significantly potentiated neurite outgrowth. The neurotrophic effect of IL-17 was accompanied by inhibition of voltage-dependent Ca2+influx and was recapitulated by incubation of neurons in a blocker of N-type Ca2+channels (ω-conotoxin GVIA; 30 nm). IL-17-induced neurite outgrowthin vitroappeared to be independent of glia, as treatment with a glial toxin (AraC; 5 μm) did not affect the outgrowth response to IL-17. Moreover, application of the cytokine to distal axons devoid of glial processes enhanced neurite extension. An inhibitor of the NF-κB pathway (SC-514; 20 μm) blocked the effects of IL-17. These data represent the first evidence that IL-17 can act on sympathetic somata and distal neurites to enhance neurite outgrowth, and identify a novel potential role for IL-17 in the neuroanatomical plasticity that accompanies inflammation.
Phosphorylation of CRMP2 (Collapsin Response Mediator Protein 2) Is Involved in Proper Dendritic Field Organization
Authors: Yamashita Naoya , Ohshima Toshio , Nakamura Fumio , Kolattukudy Papachan , Honnorat Jérôme , Mikoshiba Katsuhiko , Goshima Yoshio
Published: January 2012

Collapsin response mediator proteins (CRMPs) are intracellular proteins that mediate signals for several extracellular molecules, such as Semaphorin3A and neurotrophins. The phosphorylation of CRMP1 and CRMP2 by Cdk5 at Ser522 is involved in axonal guidance and spine development. Here, we found that the Ser522-phosphorylated CRMP1 and/or CRMP2 are enriched in the dendrites of cultured cortical neurons and P7 cortical section. To determine the physiological role of CRMPs in dendritic development, we generated CRMP2 knock-in mutant mice (crmp2ki/ki) in which the Ser residue at 522 was replaced with Ala. Strikingly, the cortical basal dendrites of double mutantcrmp2ki/kiandcrmp1−/−mice exhibited severe abnormal dendritic patterning, which we defined as “curling phenotype.” These findings demonstrate that the function of CRMP1 and CRMP2 synergistically control dendritic projection, and the phosphorylation of CRMP2 at Ser522 is essential for proper dendritic field organizationin vivo.
Defective Retinal Vascular Endothelial Cell Development As a Consequence of Impaired Integrin αVβ8-Mediated Activation of Transforming Growth Factor-β
Authors: Arnold Thomas D. , Ferrero Gina M. , Qiu Haiyan , Phan Isabella T. , Akhurst Rosemary J. , Huang Eric J. , Reichardt Louis F.
Published: January 2012

Deletions of the genes encoding the integrin αVβ8 (Itgav, Itgb8) have been shown to result in abnormal vascular development in the CNS, including prenatal and perinatal hemorrhage. Other work has indicated that a major function of this integrinin vivois to promote TGFβ activation. In this paper, we show thatItgb8mRNA is strongly expressed in murine Müller glia and retinal ganglion cells, but not astrocytes. We further show thatItgb8deletion in the entire retina severely perturbs development of the murine retinal vasculature, elevating vascular branch point density and vascular coverage in the superficial vascular plexus, while severely impairing formation of the deep vascular plexus. The stability of the mutant vasculature is also impaired as assessed by the presence of hemorrhage and vascular basal lamina sleeves lacking endothelial cells. Specific deletion ofItgb8in Müller glia and neurons, but not deletion in astrocytes, recapitulates the phenotype observed followingItgb8in the entire retina. Consistent with αVβ8's role in TGFβ1 activation, we show that retinal deletion ofTgfb1results in very similar retinal vascular abnormalities. The vascular deficits appear to reflect impaired TGFβ signaling in vascular endothelial cells because retinal deletion ofItgb8reduces phospho-SMAD3 in endothelial cells and endothelial cell-specific deletion of theTGFβRIIgene recapitulates the major deficits observed in theItgb8andTGFβ1mutants. Of special interest, the retinal vascular phenotypes observed in each mutant are remarkably similar to those of others following inhibition of neuropilin-1, a receptor previously implicated in TGFβ activation and signaling.
Modulation of Frontostriatal Interaction Aligns with Reduced Primary Reward Processing under Serotonergic Drugs
Authors: Abler Birgit , Grön Georg , Hartmann Antonie , Metzger Coraline , Walter Martin
Published: January 2012

Recently, functional interactions between anteroventral prefrontal cortex and nucleus accumbens (NAcc) have been shown to relate to behavior counteracting reward-desiring (Diekhof and Gruber, 2010). Downregulation of the reward system by serotonin has also been suggested as the mode of action accounting for unsatisfactory effects of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) such as insufficient alleviation or even increase of anhedonia, and loss of interest. However, understanding of thein vivomechanisms of SSRI-related alteration of the human reward system is still incomplete. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) within a double-blind cross-over within-subjects study design and administering the SSRI paroxetine, the dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor bupropione, and placebo for 7 d each, we investigated a group of 18 healthy male subjects. Under paroxetine, subjects showed significantly decreased activation of the bilateral NAcc during processing of primary rewards (erotic videos), but not under bupropion. Similar to the previous study, analysis of psychophysiological interactions revealed that this downregulation relied on negative interactions between left and right NAcc fMRI signals and the bilateral anteroventral prefrontal cortex that now were significantly enhanced under paroxetine and reduced under bupropion. Individual drug-dependent modulations of interacting brain regions were significantly associated with individual expressions of impulsivity as a personality trait. Our results corroborate and extend previous insights on interregional crosstalk from secondary to primary rewards and demonstrate parallels between active inhibitory control of and serotonergic effects on the dopaminergic reward system's activity.
Implementing an online tool for genome-wide validation of survival-associated biomarkers in ovarian-cancer using microarray data from 1287 patients
Authors: Győrffy Balázs , Lánczky András , Szállási Zoltán
Published: January 2012

The validation of prognostic biomarkers in large independent patient cohorts is a major bottleneck in ovarian cancer research. We implemented an online tool to assess the prognostic value of the expression levels of all microarray-quantified genes in ovarian cancer patients. First, a database was set up using gene expression data and survival information of 1287 ovarian cancer patients downloaded from Gene Expression Omnibus and The Cancer Genome Atlas (Affymetrix HG-U133A, HG-U133A 2.0, and HG-U133 Plus 2.0 microarrays). After quality control and normalization, only probes present on all three Affymetrix platforms were retained (n=22 277). To analyze the prognostic value of the selected gene, we divided the patients into two groups according to various quantile expressions of the gene. These groups were then compared using progression-free survival (n=1090) or overall survival (n=1287). A Kaplan–Meier survival plot was generated and significance was computed. The tool can be accessed online at www.kmplot.com/ovar. We used this integrative data analysis tool to validate the prognostic power of 37 biomarkers identified in the literature. Of these, CA125 (MUC16; P=3.7×10−5, hazard ratio (HR)=1.4), CDKN1B (P=5.4×10−5, HR=1.4), KLK6 (P=0.002, HR=0.79), IFNG (P=0.004, HR=0.81), P16 (P=0.02, HR=0.66), and BIRC5 (P=0.00017, HR=0.75) were associated with survival. The combination of several probe sets can further increase prediction efficiency. In summary, we developed a global online biomarker validation platform that mines all available microarray data to assess the prognostic power of 22 277 genes in 1287 ovarian cancer patients. We specifically used this tool to evaluate the effect of 37 previously published biomarkers on ovarian cancer prognosis.
Chronic heat stress up-regulates leptin and adiponectin secretion and expression and improves leptin, adiponectin and insulin sensitivity in mice
Authors: Morera Patrizia , Basiricò Loredana , Hosoda Kenji , Bernabucci Umberto
Published: January 2012

Heat stress (HS) induces adaptive responses that are responsible for alterations of carbohydrate and lipid metabolism. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of chronic heat treatment on the expression and secretion of leptin and adiponectin, important regulators of energy homeostasis, food intake and insulin action. C57BL/6 mice were subdivided into three groups (24 mice each). The first group was kept under control conditions (C: 22±2 °C). The second group was exposed to HS (35±1 °C). The third group was kept under control conditions and was food restricted (FR). The HS group had higher rectal temperature than the C and FR groups and lower food intake than the C group.Hspa1(Hspa1a) gene expression in adipose tissue, muscle and liver was higher under HS than FR and C. Heat treatment resulted in decreased blood glucose and non-esterified fatty acids; increased leptin, adiponectin and insulin secretion; and greater glucose disposal. Leptin, adiponectin, leptin and adiponectin receptors, insulin receptor substrate-1 and glucose transporter mRNAs were up-regulated in HS mice. This study provides evidence that HS improves leptin and adiponectin signalling in adipose tissue, muscle and liver. Heat stress was responsible for improving insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake in peripheral tissues, probably mediated by adipokines. Changes in the adipokine levels and sensitivity to them may be considered as an adaptive response to heat.
FKBP4 is regulated by HOXA10 during decidualization and in endometriosis
Authors: Yang Huan , Zhou Yuping , Edelshain Benjiamin , Schatz Frederick , Lockwood Charles J , Taylor Hugh S
Published: January 2012

FKBP4 (FKBP52) and FKBP5 (FKBP51) are progestin receptor (PR) co-chaperone proteins that enhance and inhibit, respectively, progestin-mediated transcription by PR. Here, we examinedFKBP4andFKBP5expression in the eutopic endometrium of fertile women with endometriosis and effects of FKBP4 and FKBP5 on the decidualization of human endometrial stromal cells (HESCs), and assessed HOXA10 regulation of FKBP4. Expression ofFKBP4mRNA was increased in the late proliferative phase and remained elevated throughout the secretory phase.FKBP5expression was low and remained constant throughout the menstrual cycle. Compared with controls,FKBP4mRNA expression was decreased in the endometrium of women with endometriosis, whereas no significant endometriosis-related change was seen forFKBP5. Cultured HESCs were treated with eitherFKBP4orFKBP5siRNA and then decidualized by incubation with progesterone (P4) and 8-bromoadenosine cAMP. Treatment of HESCs withFKBP4siRNA resulted in 60% lowerIGFBP1expression. In contrast, incubation withFKBP5siRNA did not significantly decreaseIGFBP1expression duringin vitrodecidualization.HOXA10andFKBP4expression increased in parallel duringin vitrodecidualization. In HESCs, overexpressed HOXA10 enhanced FKBP4 mRNA and protein levels, whereas HOXA10 knockdown decreased FKBP4 mRNA and protein levels compared with controls. Similarly, duringin vitrodecidualization,FKBP4expression was decreased in HOXA10-silenced cells. EnhancedHOXA10expression in HESCs elicits a decidualization mediating increase inFKBP4expression. The findings are consistent with the observation that women with endometriosis have diminishedFKBP4expression leading to impaired decidualization and infertility. The P4resistance seen in endometriosis may be mediated through HOXA10-regulatedFKBP4expression.
Large panel system dwelling blocks – updating structural assessment guidance
Authors: Matthews Stuart , Reeves Barry
Published: January 2012

This paper deals with an aspect of the enduring implications of the collapse in 1968 of part of Ronan Point, a large panel system (LPS) built dwelling block. While it is commonly recognised that this incident resulted in the introduction of ‘disproportionate collapse’ as a structural concept and changes to the UK Building Regulations in force at the time, the issues relating to the ongoing management of the remaining population of existing LPS dwelling blocks are perhaps less widely appreciated. There are many high-rise LPS dwelling blocks in the UK that are expected to remain in service for an extended period. Block owners have an ongoing responsibility for their safety, which requires their periodic inspection and structural assessment. The guidance historically used for the assessment of such blocks has become outdated by developments since its publication. This paper summarises a programme of work to develop updated technical evaluation criteria and associated guidance for undertaking structural assessment of LPS dwelling blocks for accidental loads. The programme followed the classic forensic engineering process of learning from an unfortunate event to improve engineering practice in the future.
Seven rules for success as an expert
Authors: Choat Rupert
Published: January 2012

This paper is concerned with what clients, their lawyers, the courts of England and Wales and tribunals expect of those who act as experts in a dispute context. It is aimed at engineering experts, from those who are established practitioners to those who are starting out. However, similar principles apply to all disciplines of expert. The paper seeks to pull together a wide array of requirements, practical tips and ethical principles into seven broad rules for success.
Benefits of freeway investment through innovative procurement
Authors: Alli Nazir , van Niekerk Alex , Wilson Stewart
Published: January 2012

South Africa’s pressing development challenges include an ageing road network and sharp growth in road traffic. The construction of adequate transport infrastructure, and the capital investment required to fund it sustainably, are prerequisites for social and economic development. Furthermore, there is a legal and moral obligation to spread the economic benefits of such investment to smaller firms and historically disadvantaged South Africans. In 2008, the South African National Roads Agency Ltd launched the Gauteng freeway improvement project, covering 560 km of roads. The first 185 km of roads include the construction of additional lanes, reconfiguring interchanges and the introduction of a multi-lane free flow electronic toll collection system, all to be financed through capital borrowings and toll income. This paper will discuss innovations in the procurement of the civil works that enabled the involvement of firms owned by black South Africans and prevented the consolidation of large firms in joint ventures.
Funding model for bulk raw water infrastructure in South Africa
Authors: Keyser Alicia
Published: January 2012

South Africa is expanding its bulk water infrastructure on a large scale to meet increased water demands for both domestic and industrial use. The funding mechanism used depends on each project’s financial viability. Government utilises its limited fiscal funding to target social water requirements whereas commercially viable bulk water projects are usually funded off-budget from government. In this instance, Trans-Caledon Tunnel Authority (TCTA), as an arm of government, negotiates long-term off-take agreements with end-users against which it raises funding. This two-pronged approach ensures innovative and sustainable water infrastructure development. TCTA is a state-owned entity created under the National Water Act as a special-purpose vehicle to implement and fund such off-budget projects on behalf of the Department of Water Affairs. Projects implemented to date include the Lesotho Highlands water project phase 1A and 1B, Berg water project (BWP) and the Vaal pipeline (VRESAP) project. The financial and contractual arrangements are designed to achieve the optimal credit rating for the projects. Both BWP and VRESAP are rated AA+(zaf ) long term and F1+(zaf ) short term by Fitch Ratings. Currently TCTA manages ZAR23 billion (±£2·3 billion) worth of debt on the projects implemented to date and has received directives for four more projects to be implemented in the next 5 years to the value of ZAR11 billion (±£1·1 billion). This paper presents the methodology applied by TCTA to implement and fund large bulk raw water infrastructure with respect to institutional arrangements, risk allocation, tariff setting, governance framework and raising of finance without explicit government guarantees.
Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban’s icon of pride
Authors: ter Haar Tim
Published: January 2012

The award-winning Moses Mabhida Stadium, completed in October 2009, is a world-class multi-purpose sporting facility and an iconic, innovative and sustainable landmark in Durban which played host to seven spectacular Fifa World Cup 2010 matches, including a semi-final. The 106 m arch, inspired by the Y-shape of the South African flag, was a world first in terms of the design of the arch foundations, involving diaphragm walling to bedrock, massive cappings and springer plinths. Another South African first was achieved for precast design and installation in stadiums.
Density estimation in tiger populations: combining information for strong inference
Authors: Gopalaswamy Arjun M. , Royle J. Andrew , Delampady Mohan , Nichols James D. , Karanth K. Ullas , Macdonald David W.
Published: January 2012

A productive way forward in studies of animal populations is to efficiently make use of all the information available, either as raw data or as published sources, on critical parameters of interest. In this study, we demonstrate two approaches to the use of multiple sources of information on a parameter of fundamental interest to ecologists: animal density. The first approach produces estimates simultaneously from two different sources of data. The second approach was developed for situations in which initial data collection and analysis are followed up by subsequent data collection and prior knowledge is updated with new data using a stepwise process. Both approaches are used to estimate density of a rare and elusive predator, the tiger, by combining photographic and fecal DNA spatial capture–recapture data. The model, which combined information, provided the most precise estimate of density (8.5 ± 1.95 tigers/100 km2 [posterior mean ± SD]) relative to a model that utilized only one data source (photographic, 12.02 ± 3.02 tigers/100 km2 and fecal DNA, 6.65 ± 2.37 tigers/100 km2). Our study demonstrates that, by accounting for multiple sources of available information, estimates of animal density can be significantly improved.
How ecological science is portrayed in mass media
Authors: Baker Matthew J. , Williams Leilani F. , Lybbert Andrew H. , Johnson Jerald B.
Published: January 2012

Improving science literacy in the general public has become increasingly important to ecologists. Although many scientists are involved in outreach, most of the public depends on mass media sources to learn about original scientific research. In this study, we explore how ecological findings are portrayed in the mass media. To do so, we survey media coverage of scientific articles published in the journal Ecology over the past decade. We find that relatively few scientific articles—less than 2% of the total published papers—receive any media coverage. Newspapers constitute the primary medium for ecological findings, followed closely by newswire, and distantly by newsletters, magazines, and online web publications; no ecological findings are reported in television or radio during the timeframe we examined. We also examine which components of scientific publications are covered in news stories, focusing on five categories: theory, methods, results, discussion, and background science not coming directly from the scientific paper. Considerable coverage in media stories (about one‐fourth of media story content) focuses on the results of the paper; interestingly, just over a third of media story content covers discussion material, followed closely by theory at 17%. We conclude that although relatively few Ecology articles are covered in the mass media, those that are tend to focus on the implications of scientific research and on actual scientific findings. Finally, Ecology articles covered in mainstream media were not cited more or less frequently by scientists than those not covered in mainstream media. That is, journalists appear to feature an average spectrum of academic work, rather than articles that ultimately become most highly cited in the ecological field.
The influence of climate change, site type, and disturbance on stand dynamics in northwest British Columbia, Canada
Authors: Nitschke C. R. , Amoroso M. , Coates K. D. , Astrup R.
Published: January 2012

Stand and disturbance dynamics are key processes that need to be assessed along with climate‐species interactions if we are to better understand the impacts of climate change on species. In this study we investigated the biotic interactions (competition) between species, the influence of disturbance type, and changes in resource availability (moisture and light) on the response of six tree species to climate change in the northwest region of central British Columbia, Canada. Two ecological models were parameterized, linked together and coupled to climate change scenarios to explore the interactions between: (1) the response of species in the regeneration phase and (2) the role of disturbance, resource availability and competition on determining stand composition and productivity. Climate change was found to reduce soil moisture availability which resulted in a decline in regeneration potential for all species on dry sites and negative to neutral responses on sites with higher water availability. Following fire, stand dynamics and composition were modeled to undergo significant changes under the 2080s climate compared to current climate conditions on dry and mesic sites. Changes in stand dynamics under climate change were marginal following bark beetle disturbances. While significant changes to stand dynamics were found on dry sites, the presented results suggest that the sites with the highest moisture availability maintain the same general stand dynamics and composition following disturbances under climate change. This study highlights the need to consider species response to climate change in interaction with existing stand conditions, disturbance type, competition, resource availability, not just temperature and precipitation.
Differences Between Veteran Suicides With and Without Psychiatric Symptoms
Authors: Britton Peter C. , Ilgen Mark A. , Valenstein Marcia , Knox Kerry , Claassen Cynthia A. , Conner Kenneth R.
Published: January 2012

Objectives. Our objective was to examine all suicides (n = 423) in 2 geographic areas of the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) over a 7-year period and to perform detailed chart reviews on the subsample that had a VHA visit in the last year of life (n = 381).

Methods. Within this sample, we compared a group with 1 or more documented psychiatric symptoms (68.5%) to a group with no such symptoms (31.5%). The groups were compared on suicidal thoughts and behaviors, somatic symptoms, and stressors using the χ2test and on time to death after the last visit using survival analyses.

Results. Veterans with documented psychiatric symptoms were more likely to receive a suicide risk assessment, and have suicidal ideation and a suicide plan, sleep problems, pain, and several stressors. These veterans were also more likely to die in the 60 days after their last visit.

Conclusions. Findings indicated presence of 2 large and distinct groups of veterans at risk for suicide in the VHA, underscoring the value of tailored prevention strategies, including approaches suitable for those without identified psychiatric symptoms.
Effects of Iraq/Afghanistan Deployments on Major Depression and Substance Use Disorder: Analysis of Active Duty Personnel in the US Military
Authors: Shen Yu-Chu , Arkes Jeremy , Williams Thomas V.
Published: January 2012

Objectives. Our objective was to analyze the association between deployment characteristics and diagnostic rates for major depression and substance use disorder among active duty personnel.

Methods. Using active duty personnel serving between 2001 and 2006 (n = 678 382) and deployment information from the Contingent Tracking System, we identified individuals diagnosed with substance use disorders and major depression from TRICARE health records. We performed logistic regression analysis to assess the effect of deployment location and length on these diagnostic rates.

Results. Increased odds of diagnosis with both conditions were associated with deployment to Iraq or Afghanistan compared with nondeployed personnel and with Army and Marine Corps personnel compared with Navy and Air Force personnel. Increases in the likelihood of either diagnosis with deployment length were only observed among Army personnel.

Conclusions. There were increased substance use disorders and major depression across services associated with combat conditions. It would be important to assess whether the public health system has adequate resources to handle the increasing need of mental health services in this population.
Suicidal Behavior in a National Sample of Older Homeless Veterans
Authors: Schinka John A. , Schinka Katherine C. , Casey Roger J. , Kasprow Wes , Bossarte Robert M.
Published: January 2012

Objectives. We examined self-reported suicidal behavior of older homeless veterans to establish frequencies and predictors of recent suicidal behaviors, and their impact on transitional housing interventions.

Methods. We analyzed the records of a national sample of 10 111 veterans who participated in a transition housing program over a 6-year period, ending in 2008.

Results. Approximately 12% of homeless veterans reported suicidal ideation before program admission; 3% reported a suicide attempt in the 30 days before program admission. Older homeless veterans exhibiting suicidal behavior had histories of high rates of psychiatric disorders and substance abuse. Regression analyses showed that self-report of depression was the primary correlate of suicidal behavior. Suicidal behavior before program entry did not predict intervention outcomes, such as program completion, housing outcome, and employment.

Conclusions. Suicidal behavior was prevalent in older homeless veterans and was associated with a history of psychiatric disorder and substance abuse. Self-reported depression was associated with these behaviors at the time of housing intervention. Despite the association with poor mental health history, suicidal behavior in older homeless veterans did not impact outcomes of transitional housing interventions.
The Role of Pain, Functioning, and Mental Health in Suicidality Among Veterans Affairs Primary Care Patients
Authors: Magruder Kathyrn M. , Yeager Derik , Brawman-Mintzer Olga
Published: January 2012

Objectives. We examined suicidality, pain, functioning, and psychiatric disorders among veterans in primary care by using both self-report and clinical measures of pain and mental health to determine correlates that might be clinically useful in primary care settings.

Methods. Data were from 884 Veterans Affairs patients enrolled in a regional 4-site cross-sectional study. Patients were administered measures that assessed functioning (including pain) and psychiatric disorders. Data were merged with medical records for clinical pain indicators.

Results. Overall, 9.1% (74 of 816) of patients indicated suicidal ideation, with those who were middle-aged, unemployed because of disability, had less than college education, and served in a warzone most likely to consider suicidality. Suicidal patients had worse functioning (measured by the Short Form-36) than did nonsuicidal patients in every domain, including bodily pain, and were more likely to meet criteria for a psychiatric diagnosis. However, when pain and mental health were jointly considered, only mental health (both psychiatric diagnosis and mental health functioning) was related to suicidality.

Conclusions. Although providers should be alert to the possibility of suicidality in patients with pain, they should be vigilant when patients have a psychiatric disorder or poor mental health.
Suicide Among Patients in the Veterans Affairs Health System: Rural–Urban Differences in Rates, Risks, and Methods
Authors: McCarthy John F. , Blow Frederic C. , Ignacio Rosalinda V. , Ilgen Mark A. , Austin Karen L. , Valenstein Marcia
Published: January 2012

Objectives. Using national patient cohorts, we assessed rural–urban differences in suicide rates, risks, and methods in veterans.

Methods. We identified all Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) patients in fiscal years 2003 to 2004 (FY03–04) alive at the start of FY04 (n = 5 447 257) and all patients in FY06–07 alive at the start of FY07 (n = 5 709 077). Mortality (FY04–05 and FY07–08) was assessed from National Death Index searches. Census criteria defined rurality. We used proportional hazards regressions to calculate rural–urban differences in risks, controlling for age, gender, psychiatric diagnoses, VA mental health services accessibility, and regional administrative network. Suicide method was categorized as firearms, poisoning, strangulation, or other.

Results. Rural patients had higher suicide rates (38.8 vs 31.4/100 000 person-years in FY04–05; 39.6 vs 32.4/100 000 in FY07–08). Rural residence was associated with greater suicide risks (20% greater, FY04–05; 22% greater, FY07–08). Firearm deaths were more common in rural suicides (76.8% vs 61.5% in FY07–08).

Conclusions. Rural residence is a suicide risk factor, even after controlling for mental health accessibility. Public health and health system suicide prevention should address risks in rural areas.
Characteristics of Suicides Among US Army Active Duty Personnel in 17 US States From 2005 to 2007
Authors: Logan Joseph , Skopp Nancy A. , Karch Debra , Reger Mark A. , Gahm Gregory A.
Published: January 2012

Suicides are increasing among active duty US Army soldiers. To help focus prevention strategies, we characterized 56 US Army suicides that occurred from 2005 to 2007 in 17 US states using 2 large-scale surveillance systems. We found that intimate partner problems and military-related stress, particularly job stress, were common among decedents. Many decedents were also identified as having suicidal ideation, a sad or depressed mood, or a recent crisis before death. Focusing efforts to prevent these forms of stress might reduce suicides among soldiers.
Prevalence and Characteristics of Suicide Ideation and Attempts Among Active Military and Veteran Participants in a National Health Survey
Authors: Bossarte Robert M. , Knox Kerry L. , Piegari Rebecca , Altieri John , Kemp Janet , Katz Ira R.
Published: January 2012

The relationships between military service and suicide are not clear, and comparatively little is known about the characteristics and correlates of suicide ideation and attempts among those with history of military service. We used data from a national health survey to estimate the prevalence and correlates of suicidal behaviors among veterans and service members in 2 states. The prevalence of suicidal behaviors among Veterans was similar to previous estimates of ideation and attempts among adults in the US general population.
Genetic Polymorphisms of Glutathione S‐Transferase M1, T1, and P1, and the Assessment of Oxidative Damage in Infertile Men With Varicoceles From Northwestern China
Authors: Tang Kaifa , Xue Wei , Xing Yao , Xu Shaoyuan , Wu Qifei , Liu Ruizhe , Wang Xinyang , Xing Junping
Published: January 2012

ABSTRACT: Our objective was to investigate the genetic polymorphisms of the glutathione S‐transferase M1, T1, and P1 genes (GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1) and to assess the oxidative damage in infertile men with varicoceles from northwestern China. A total of 65 infertile men with varicoceles and 30 controls were included in the study. Multiplex polymerase chain reaction and polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism analyses were used to identify the genotypes. Sperm DNA damage was assessed by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase‐mediated dUTP‐biotin nick end‐labeling (TUNEL). The levels of 8‐hydroxy‐2′‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OH‐dG) were measured by high‐performance liquid chromatography with electrochemical detection. The activities of malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO), and the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) were detected by spectroscopic analysis, and sperm characteristics were measured using computer‐assisted semen analysis. The frequencies of the GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTP1 genotypes were not significantly different between the control and patient groups (P > .05). The percentage of TUNEL‐positive sperm and the levels of 8‐OH‐dG, MDA, and NO were higher but the sperm concentration and motility and the TAC were lower in the patients with the GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTM1/T1 null genotypes than those in the patients with the GSTM1, GSTT1, and GSTM1/T1 present genotypes (P < .05). However, no significant differences were observed between the GSTP1 A/A and A/G+G/G genotypes (P > .05). Our results suggest that the GSTM1 and GSTT1 null genotypes may predispose sperm to increased oxidative damage in infertile men with varicoceles; however, GSTP1 allelic variation was not significantly different between the patient and control groups in this study.