bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Posttranslational Influence of NADPH-Dependent Thioredoxin Reductase C on Enzymes in Tetrapyrrole Synthesis
Authors: Richter Andreas S. , Peter Enrico , Rothbart Maxi , Schlicke Hagen , Toivola Jouni , Rintamäki Eevi , Grimm Bernhard
Published: April 2013

The NADPH-dependent thioredoxin reductase C (NTRC) is involved in redox-related regulatory processes in chloroplasts and nonphotosynthetic active plastids. Together with 2-cysteine peroxiredoxin, it forms a two-component peroxide-detoxifying system that acts as a reductant under stress conditions. NTRC stimulates in vitro activity of magnesium protoporphyrin IX monomethylester (MgPMME) cyclase, most likely by scavenging peroxides. Reexamination of tetrapyrrole intermediate levels of the Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) knockout ntrc reveals lower magnesium protoporphyrin IX (MgP) and MgPMME steady-state levels, the substrate and the product of MgP methyltransferase (CHLM) preceding MgPMME cyclase, while MgP strongly accumulates in mutant leaves after 5-aminolevulinic acid feeding. The ntrc mutant has a reduced capacity to synthesize 5-aminolevulinic acid and reduced CHLM activity compared with the wild type. Although transcript levels of genes involved in chlorophyll biosynthesis are not significantly altered in 2-week-old ntrc seedlings, the contents of glutamyl-transfer RNA reductase1 (GluTR1) and CHLM are reduced. Bimolecular fluorescence complementation assay confirms a physical interaction of NTRC with GluTR1 and CHLM. While ntrc contains partly oxidized CHLM, the wild type has only reduced CHLM. As NTRC also stimulates CHLM activity in vitro, it is proposed that NTRC has a regulatory impact on the redox status of conserved cysteine residues of CHLM. It is hypothesized that a deficiency of NTRC leads to a lower capacity to reduce cysteine residues of GluTR1 and CHLM, affecting the stability and, thereby, altering the activity in the entire tetrapyrrole synthesis pathway.
Matrix modelling of prescribed burning in Calluna vulgaris‐dominated moorland: short burning rotations minimize carbon loss at increased wildfire frequencies
Authors: Allen Katherine A. , Harris Michael P. K. , Marrs Rob H.
Published: April 2013

Moorlands store large amounts of carbon providing a valuable ecosystem service. In the UK, prescribed burning is often used to manage moorlands, which can produce both positive (biodiversity enhancement and wildfire prevention) and negative impacts (carbon release and reduction in some ecosystem services provision). This issue is pertinent, as wildfire incidence may increase under climate warming, increasing damage to both conservation value and ecosystem services. To better manage these fire‐prone ecosystems, an understanding of the effects of prescribed‐burning regimes and wildfire on moorland fuel loads is required. As a first approximation of the relative impacts of prescribed burning and wildfire, we have modelled above‐ground fuel‐load accumulation and carbon release under varying wildfire return intervals at a study site in the Peak District, UK.

Above‐ground fuel‐load accumulation following prescribed burning was assessed using a chronosequence study and combined with carbon loss measurements from prescribed‐burning experiments. The stable age structure of vegetation under varying prescribed‐burning rotations was then predicted using an age‐structured matrix model and moorland above‐ground fuel load calculated using a boot‐strapping approach. Finally, long‐term carbon losses were predicted under varying wildfire return intervals. Delayed vegetation regeneration was also modelled. The model does not consider below‐ground carbon or the effect of prescribed fire on wildfire probability.

There was a clear interaction between prescribed‐burning rotation interval and wildfire return interval. At 50‐ and 100‐year wildfire return intervals, carbon losses were minimized by short prescribed‐burning rotations. However, under a 200‐year wildfire return interval, carbon loss was minimized by long rotation intervals where delayed regeneration was modelled.

Under a 50‐year wildfire return interval, 8‐year prescribed‐burning rotation intervals could reduce carbon loss by 22% or 34% compared with 25‐ and 50‐year rotations, respectively.

Synthesis and applications. The modelling approach outlined here provides a first approximation to the above‐ground carbon balance between prescribed burning and wildfire frequency at a single site. This may be useful in other dwarf‐shrub‐dominated ecosystems if prescribed burning is to be used to mitigate the effects of wildfire. At our study site, long prescribed‐burning rotations may minimize carbon loss at low wildfire return intervals. However, if wildfire incidence increases, more frequent prescribed burning is likely to minimize overall carbon loss. Well‐informed prescribed burning on a short rotation may produce smaller carbon losses than longer rotations under future climate conditions.
Core sediment bacteria drive community response to anthropogenic contamination over multiple environmental gradients
Authors: Sun Melanie Y. , Dafforn Katherine A. , Johnston Emma L. , Brown Mark V.
Published: April 2013

In this study, 454 pyrosequencing of the 16S rRNA gene was used to investigate sediment bacterial community response to contaminant disturbance across six estuaries with differing levels of ‘modification’. We observed a significant influence of metal and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon contaminants in shaping bacterial community composition, structure and diversity, with metals being the more influential contaminant. An abundant and pervasive ‘core’ set of bacteria found in every sample were largely responsible for mediating community response to contamination. These 13 core operational taxonomic units were mostly comprised of Gamma‐, Delta‐, Alphaproteobacteria and Acidobacteria. Sediment silt and metals together explained the most variation in bacterial community composition (19.7%). Following this strong contaminant signature, salinity and temperature represented important environmental variables predicting 10.9% of community variation. While overall network connectivity measures supported the idea of an inherently diverse soil microbiome with some degree of functional redundancy, lower values observed in contaminated sediments indicate potential structural perturbations in the community from fracturing or loss of bacterial associations. The large number of unclassified sequences obtained in this study contribute to improving our understanding of environmentally relevant strains in relation to anthropogenic contamination, which have been overlooked in laboratory studies.
DNA barcoding reveals cryptic diversity in the peanut worm Sipunculus nudus
Authors: Hsu Te‐Hua , Ning Yue , Gwo Jin‐Chywan , Zeng Zhi‐Nan
Published: April 2013

Peanut worm (Sipunculus nudus) is a cosmopolitan species mainly distributed in tropical and subtropical coastal waters. Analysis of the mitochondrial cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) gene sequences among S. nudus from GenBank revealed high genetic variation (p‐distance, 0.115–0.235; k2p, 0.128–0.297) and paraphyletic relationships. These indicated misidentification and/or cryptic diversity may be present in the genus Sipunculus. To understand the genetic diversity and to manage the recourse of S. nudus, we collected specimens from coastal waters of southern China and Taiwan. In the phylogenetic topology, specimens can be separated into four distinct clades; three of these clades (clade A, B and C) were only represented from this region (southern China and Taiwan), but the clade D grouped with individuals from Central America (Atlantic coast). Furthermore, individuals of clades A and D were collected at the same location, which does not support the hypothesis that this genetic break reflects contemporary geographical isolation. The four distinct clades observed among coastal waters of southern China and Taiwan indicated underestimated diversity. It is noteworthy that the cryptic diversity is vulnerable under high pressure of human activity.
Gender Identification in Great Sturgeon (Huso huso) Using Morphology, Sex Steroids, Histology and Endoscopy
Authors: Falahatkar B. , Poursaeid S.
Published: April 2013

Gender identification of great sturgeon during different life stages was conducted using morphology, sex steroid concentrations, histological and endoscopic techniques. One hundred and forty great sturgeons from two sturgeon farms at ages between 3‐16 years were selected for examination. Most of the morphological indices showed no significant sex‐related differences except for the ratio of fork length to distance of snout to anterior of dorsal fin (PD). The urogenital opening had no difference in shapes for both sexes. Mean sex steroid concentrations showed no significant difference in levels of testosterone, estradiol and progesterone between males and females in the stage II of maturity. 95.8% of fish were correctly sexed using endoscopy at this stage. Histological investigation indicated the ovaries of 3‐ to 9‐year‐old females were at the different stages of pre‐vitellogenic, and most males were at the early spermatogenesis for age 3. The result of this study suggests that endoscopy is a reliable tool for sex and stage determination after the age of 3 years. This method is useful in providing a quick discernment of sexes and stages compared with utilizing morphometric and blood indices. Direct observation of gonads can give us important information about the gonadal and maturity stages in sturgeon aquaculture and wild population management, with minimal damage or stress to this endangered species.
Stability of DNA, RNA, cytomorphology, and immunoantigenicity in Residual ThinPrep® Specimens
Authors: Kim Younghye , Choi Kap Ro , Chae Moon Jung , Shin Bong Kyung , Kim Han Kyeom , Kim Aeree , Kim Baek‐hui
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to evaluate the quality of residual liquid‐based preparation (LBP) sample after cytopathologic diagnosis. Cervical swab, body fluid, and thyroid fine‐needle aspiration (FNA) samples preserved in ThinPrep PreservCyt® solution were tested. Samples kept frozen at −80 °C and stored at room temperature were tested 12 months after the initial sample collection. Gel electrophotography of GAPDH multiplex PCR, RNA integrity number (RIN) values obtained from Agilent bioanalyzer, cytomorphologic changes, and immunohistochemical staining (cytokeratin, thyroid transcription factor‐1 (TTF‐1), and D2‐40) were used for the evaluation of sample quality. All available samples showed successful amplification products in multiplex PCR. However, RNAs in all residual samples were degraded with low RIN values (RIN < 4). RIN values decreased rapidly when samples were stored at room temperature in LBP medium. Cytomorpholoic evaluation and immunohistochemical staining results revealed no change regardless of storage time or storage temperature. In conclusion, RNAs stored in LBP medium degraded quickly at room temperature. Residual alcohol‐based LBP cytologic specimens stored at −80 °C and room temperature showed no change in DNA quality, cytomorphology, and immunoreactivity during at least one year of storage.
Waste, commodity fetishism and the ongoingness of economic life
Authors: Herod Andrew , Pickren Graham , Rainnie Al , McGrath‐Champ Susan
Published: April 2013

Waste in general, and e‐waste in particular, has become a topic of interest in recent years. One focus of attention has been on how commodities are broken up after the putative end of their lives, with such commodities' constituent elements then being used as inputs into other products. The fact that much waste is recycled in this manner has led several scholars to emphasise the ‘ongoingness’ of economic life. In this context, Lepawsky and Mather have recently drawn on actor network theory to make a case in this journal that analytical attention should be placed on processes of wasting and valuing as a way to look beyond the end of commodities' initial lives. This can be done, they contend, by exploring how commodities are physically transformed into new objects to the point where their constituent elements are no longer recognisable as what they once were and through how waste is ‘performed’ in different ways in different times and places. Although their paper rightly emphasises economic continuity, we suggest that their approach nevertheless ultimately fetishises commodities' form and that their claim that ‘[i]n following ‘e‐waste’ qua waste, we were bringing its reality as waste into existence’ represents an idealist approach to waste. By way of contrast, we seek to retain their nuanced conception of ongoingness but without abandoning analysis of the movement of value – conceived of here in the Marxist sense of congealed labour – through the chain of product destruction, the processing of products' constituent parts, and their reuse through incorporation into new products. In order to do so we distinguish between two ways in which value can be used up: devalorisation and devaluation. Such an approach allows us to retain insights into the specifically capitalist nature of waste recycling and to engage with the materiality of Nature.
Force‐full: power, politics and object‐oriented philosophy
Authors: Shaw Ian G R , Meehan Katharine
Published: April 2013

In this paper we construct an object‐oriented approach to power and politics. Building on the work of Graham Harman, we argue that objects are engines of power, able to fully shape the contours of existence through the production of difference and affectivity in the world. We present four key points to underpin our argument. First, we define an object by expanding on the Heideggerian idea that objects are split between their ‘present qualities’ and ‘absent qualities’. Second, we discuss why objects are irreducible to scientific naturalism or social relativism. Third, we contend that the world is ‘policed’ by objects that act as phenomenological viruses. And finally, we explain that such policing is never exhaustive and autonomous forces are constitutive of new commons. We conclude that a speculative metaphysics is vital for building new geographic understandings of objects and power, and a politics of action – one brick at a time.
Curcumin Attenuates Diet‐Induced Hepatic Steatosis by Activating AMP‐Activated Protein Kinase
Authors: Um Min Young , Hwang Kwang Hyun , Ahn Jiyun , Ha Tae Youl
Published: April 2013

Curcumin is a well‐known component of traditional turmeric (Curcuma longa), which has been reported to prevent obesity and diabetes. However, the effect of curcumin on hepatic lipid metabolism remains unclear. The aim of this study was to examine the effects of curcumin on hepatic steatosis in high‐fat/cholesterol diet (HFD)‐induced obese mice. Male C57BL/6J mice were fed a normal diet (ND), HFD or HFD with 0.15% curcumin (HFD+C) for 11 weeks. We found that curcumin significantly lowered the body‐weight and adipose tissue weight of mice in the HFD+C group compared with the findings for the HFD group (p < 0.05). The levels of total cholesterol, fasting glucose and insulin in serum were decreased, and HFD‐induced impairment of insulin sensitivity was improved by curcumin supplementation (p < 0.05). Curcumin protected against the development of hepatic steatosis by reducing hepatic fat accumulation. Moreover, curcumin activated AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) and elevated the gene expression of peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor alpha. By contrast, curcumin suppressed the HFD‐mediated increases in sterol regulatory element‐binding protein‐1, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase 1, fatty acid synthase and cluster of differentiation 36 expression. Taken together, these findings indicate that curcumin attenuates HFD‐induced hepatic steatosis by regulating hepatic lipid metabolism via AMPK activation, suggesting its use as a therapeutic for hepatic steatosis.
Subsequent leukaemia in autoimmune disease patients
Authors: Hemminki Kari , Liu Xiangdong , Försti Asta , Ji Jianguang , Sundquist Jan , Sundquist Kristina
Published: April 2013

Previous studies have shown that patients diagnosed with some autoimmune (AI) diseases are at an increased risk of leukaemia but limited data are available on survival. We systematically analysed the risks (standardized incidence ratio, SIR) and survival (hazard ratio, HR) in nine types of leukaemia among 402 462 patients hospitalized for any of 33 AI diseases and compared to persons not hospitalized for AI diseases. Risk for all leukaemia was increased after 13 AI diseases and survival was decreased after six AI diseases. SIRs were increased after all AI diseases for seven types of leukaemia, including SIR 1·69 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1·29–2·19) for acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL), 1·85 (95% CI: 1·65–2·07) for acute myeloid leukaemia, 1·68 (95% CI: 1·37–2·04) for chronic myeloid leukaemia, 2·20 (95% CI: 1·69–2·81) for ‘other myeloid leukaemia’, 2·45 (95% 1·99–2·98) for ‘other and unspecified leukaemia’, 1·81 (95% CI: 1·11–2·81) for monocytic leukaemia, and 1·36 (95% CI: 1·08–1·69) for myelofibrosis. The HRs were increased for four types of leukaemia, most for myelofibrosis (1·74, 95% CI: 1·33–2·29) and ALL (1·42, 95% CI: 1·03–1·95). Some AI diseases, including rheumatoid arthritis, were associated with increased SIRs and HRs in many types of leukaemia. The present data showed increases in risk and decreases in survival for many types of leukaemia after various AI diseases. Leukaemia is a rare complication in AI disease but findings about this comorbidity at the time of leukaemia diagnosis may help to optimize the treatment and improve survival.
High expression of cereblon (CRBN) is associated with improved clinical response in patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide and dexamethasone
Authors: Heintel Daniel , Rocci Alberto , Ludwig Heinz , Bolomsky Arnold , Caltagirone Simona , Schreder Martin , Pfeifer Sabine , Gisslinger Heinz , Zojer Niklas , Jäger Ulrich , Palumbo Antonio
Published: April 2013

Cereblon (CRBN) has recently been identified as a target for immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs) and its downregulation has been linked to resistance to lenalidomide. Here, we studied CRBN expression by real time polymerase chain reaction in 49 bone marrow samples of newly diagnosed patients with multiple myeloma treated with lenalidomide and dexamethasone. Median CRBN expression was 3·45 in patients who achieved complete response, and 3·75, 2·01, 0·78, and 0·70 in those with very good partial response, partial response, stable disease and progressive disease respectively. CRBN expression levels correlated significantly with response to lenalidomide treatment (r = 0·48; P < 0·001). Among established prognostic parameters, only beta‐2‐microglobulin correlated with cereblon (r = 0·66; P < 0·001). A close association of CRBN with interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) (P < 0·001) and with CTNNB1 (P < 0·001) was found. Overall, a statistically significant association between baseline CRBN expression and response in MM patients treated with lenalidomide is shown. CRBN expression is closely associated with IRF4, which is an important target of IMiD therapy.
The ecological impacts of nighttime light pollution: a mechanistic appraisal
Authors: Gaston Kevin J. , Bennie Jonathan , Davies Thomas W. , Hopkins John
Published: April 2013

The ecological impacts of nighttime light pollution have been a longstanding source of concern, accentuated by realized and projected growth in electrical lighting. As human communities and lighting technologies develop, artificial light increasingly modifies natural light regimes by encroaching on dark refuges in space, in time, and across wavelengths. A wide variety of ecological implications of artificial light have been identified. However, the primary research to date is largely focused on the disruptive influence of nighttime light on higher vertebrates, and while comprehensive reviews have been compiled along taxonomic lines and within specific research domains, the subject is in need of synthesis within a common mechanistic framework. Here we propose such a framework that focuses on the cross‐factoring of the ways in which artificial lighting alters natural light regimes (spatially, temporally, and spectrally), and the ways in which light influences biological systems, particularly the distinction between light as a resource and light as an information source. We review the evidence for each of the combinations of this cross‐factoring. As artificial lighting alters natural patterns of light in space, time and across wavelengths, natural patterns of resource use and information flows may be disrupted, with downstream effects to the structure and function of ecosystems. This review highlights: (i) the potential influence of nighttime lighting at all levels of biological organisation (from cell to ecosystem); (ii) the significant impact that even low levels of nighttime light pollution can have; and (iii) the existence of major research gaps, particularly in terms of the impacts of light at population and ecosystem levels, identification of intensity thresholds, and the spatial extent of impacts in the vicinity of artificial lights.
Human facial dysostoses
Authors: Wieczorek D
Published: April 2013

The human facial dysostoses can be subdivided into mandibulofacial dysostoses (MFDs) and acrofacial dysostoses (AFDs). The craniofacial phenotypes of the two groups of patients are similar. Both types are thought to be related to abnormal migration of neural crest cells to the pharyngeal arches and the face. The craniofacial anomalies shared by the two groups consist of downslanting palpebral fissures, coloboma of the lower eyelid, from which the eyelashes medial to the defect may be absent, hypoplasia of the zygomatic complex, micrognathia, and microtia, which is often associated with hearing loss. These facial deformities are associated with limb anomalies in the AFDs. All MFDs present with the typical craniofacial phenotype, but some have additional features that help to distinguish them clinically: intellectual disability, microcephaly, chest deformity, ptosis, cleft lip/palate, macroblepharon, or blepharophimosis. The limb anomalies in the AFDs can be classified into pre‐axial, post‐axial, and others not fitting into the first two AFD types. Of the pre‐axial types, Nager syndrome and of the post‐axial types, Miller syndrome are the best‐known disorders of their AFD subgroups. Several other AFDs with unknown molecular genetic bases, including lethal ones, have been described. This article reviews the MFDs and AFDs published to date.
Elective subtotal colectomy with ileosigmoid anastomosis for colon cancer preserves bowel function and quality of life
Authors: Manceau G. , d'Annunzio E. , Karoui M. , Breton S. , Rousseau G. , Blanchet A. S. , Vaillant J. C. , Hannoun L.
Published: April 2013

Aim

We report on our experience of elective subtotal colectomy and ileosigmoid anastomosis for colon cancer with focus on postoperative results, function and quality of life.

Method

Between 1998 and 2011, 106 consecutive patients with colonic malignancy underwent this procedure electively. Function and quality of life (EORTC QLQ‐C30) were evaluated retrospectively with questionnaires sent to all patients free of recurrence.

Results

There were 62 men and 44 women (mean age 63 years). Postoperative mortality and morbidity rates were 1.9 and 26.4%, respectively. Persistent ileus was the main early complication (16%). After a mean follow‐up of 67 ± 36 months, 50 (78.1) out of 64 patients have been evaluated for function and quality of life. The mean number of bowel movements per 24 h was 3 ± 2 and significantly lower when the length of the remaining sigmoid colon was more than 15 cm (P = 0.049). Compared with a European reference population for EORTC QLQ‐C30 results, our patients had significantly more diarrhoea (26 vs 3, P = 0.0002) but less pain (10 vs 25, P < 0.0001) and better global quality of life (77 vs 62, P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Elective subtotal colectomy for colon cancer is safe and associated with good function and quality of life. Ileosigmoid anastomosis should be discussed when extended colectomy is required, providing the rectosigmoid junction and its vascular supply can be oncologically preserved. For tumours located in the transverse colon or at the splenic flexure, this procedure may be the best surgical option.
Enhancer and gene traps for molecular imaging and genetic analysis in zebrafish
Authors: Trinh Le A. , Fraser Scott E.
Published: April 2013

Enhancer and gene trapping methods are highly effective means for the identification and functional analysis of transcriptionally active genes. With recent advances in fluorescent proteins and transposon based integration technologies, a growing family of trapping approaches has been developed in zebrafish, offering powerful tools to both visualize and functionally dissect gene networks during development. Coupled with the intrinsic advantages of the zebrafish model system, creative genetic engineering of trap vectors has enabled high‐resolution molecular imaging and genetic manipulations. This review highlights the different enhancer and gene trap approaches that have been developed in zebrafish and offers insights into the strengths, limitations and experimental strategies for their application to enrich our knowledge of gene function and the cellular processes they control.
Effect of wearing mouthguards on the physical performance of soccer and futsal players: a randomized cross‐over study
Authors: Collares Kauê , Correa Marcos Britto , Silva Inácio Crochemore Mohnsam da , Hallal Pedro Curi , Demarco Flávio Fernando
Published: April 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of custom‐fit mouthguards on the aerobic performance of soccer and futsal players under 17 (U‐17).

Material and methods

Forty players from 3 Brazilian clubs participated in the study. The athletes' aerobic performance was assessed through the 20‐meter shuttle‐run test. All athletes performed two tests with and without mouthguard. Two outcome variables were analyzed: (i) the total distance covered in the test (meters) and (ii) the maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max). A questionnaire assessing the level of acceptance of mouthguards considering different parameters was administered to the athletes before the delivery of the mouthguards and after 2 weeks of use. The questionnaire used a visual analogue scale (VAS). Paired t‐test was used to compare the results obtained from the shuttle‐run tests and the questionnaires.

Results

Mouthguards did not influence the aerobic performance of the players, considering both the total distance covered in the tests and the VO2 max. Stability was the parameter with the highest acceptance. Levels of acceptance regarding breathing (P = 0.022) and communication (P = 0.002) increased after mouthguards usage. Communication had the lowest level of acceptance considering all parameters assessed. Only 10% of the players reported receiving recommendations to use mouthguards while playing football or futsal. None of the participants reported having used mouthguards before.

Conclusions

The use of custom‐fit mouthguards does not affect the aerobic performance of soccer and futsal U‐17 players. Future studies should focus on the development of appliances with maximum protection and minimum influence on communication.
Eco‐evolutionary dynamics in response to selection on life‐history
Authors: Cameron Tom C. , O'Sullivan Daniel , Reynolds Alan , Piertney Stuart B. , Benton Tim G.
Published: April 2013

Understanding the consequences of environmental change on ecological and evolutionary dynamics is inherently problematic because of the complex interplay between them. Using invertebrates in microcosms, we characterise phenotypic, population and evolutionary dynamics before, during and after exposure to a novel environment and harvesting over 20 generations. We demonstrate an evolved change in life‐history traits (the age‐ and size‐at‐maturity, and survival to maturity) in response to selection caused by environmental change (wild to laboratory) and to harvesting (juvenile or adult). Life‐history evolution, which drives changes in population growth rate and thus population dynamics, includes an increase in age‐to‐maturity of 76% (from 12.5 to 22 days) in the unharvested populations as they adapt to the new environment. Evolutionary responses to harvesting are outweighed by the response to environmental change (~ 1.4 vs. 4% change in age‐at‐maturity per generation). The adaptive response to environmental change converts a negative population growth trajectory into a positive one: an example of evolutionary rescue.
Disparity in elevational shifts of European trees in response to recent climate warming
Authors: Rabasa Sonia G. , Granda Elena , Benavides Raquel , Kunstler Georges , Espelta Josep M. , Ogaya Romá , Peñuelas Josep , Scherer‐Lorenzen Michael , Gil Wojciech , Grodzki Wojciech , Ambrozy Slawomir , Bergh Johan , Hódar José A. , Zamora Regino , Valladares Fernando
Published: April 2013

Predicting climate‐driven changes in plant distribution is crucial for biodiversity conservation and management under recent climate change. Climate warming is expected to induce movement of species upslope and towards higher latitudes. However, the mechanisms and physiological processes behind the altitudinal and latitudinal distribution range of a tree species are complex and depend on each tree species features and vary over ontogenetic stages. We investigated the altitudinal distribution differences between juvenile and adult individuals of seven major European tree species along elevational transects covering a wide latitudinal range from southern Spain (37°N) to northern Sweden (67°N). By comparing juvenile and adult distributions (shifts on the optimum position and the range limits) we assessed the response of species to present climate conditions in relation to previous conditions that prevailed when adults were established. Mean temperature increased by 0.86 °C on average at our sites during the last decade compared with previous 30‐year period. Only one of the species studied, Abies alba, matched the expected predictions under the observed warming, with a maximum abundance of juveniles at higher altitudes than adults. Three species, Fagus sylvatica, Picea abies and Pinus sylvestris, showed an opposite pattern while for other three species, such as Quercus ilex, Acer pseudoplatanus and Q. petraea, we were no able to detect changes in distribution. These findings are in contrast with theoretical predictions and show that tree responses to climate change are complex and are obscured not only by other environmental factors but also by internal processes related to ontogeny and demography.
Influence of powder‐to‐water ratio on radiopacity, setting time, pH, calcium ion release and a micro‐CT volumetric solubility of white mineral trioxide aggregate
Authors: Cavenago B. C. , Pereira T. C. , Duarte M. A. H. , Ordinola‐Zapata R. , Marciano M. A. , Bramante C. M. , Bernardineli N.
Published: April 2013

Aim

To evaluate the radiopacity, setting time, pH level, calcium ion release and solubility of white mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA; Angelus, Londrina, Pr, Brazil) with different powder‐to‐water ratios.

Methodology

Three MTA groups were prepared using 4 : 1, 3 : 1 and 2 : 1 powder‐to‐water ratios. For the radiopacity analysis, the 10 × 1 mm specimens were arranged on occlusal films with a cylinder of dentine and an aluminium stepwedge. The digitized radiographs were evaluated with Digora 1.51 software to determine the radiographic density. The setting time test was performed according to the American Society for Testing and Materials 266/08 standard specifications, but the specimens were made according to International Organization for Standardization 6876:2001. Thirty acrylic teeth with root‐end filling material were immersed in ultrapure water for measurement of pH level and calcium ion release (atomic absorption spectrophotometer) at 3, 24, 72 and 168 h. In the solubility test, the root‐end fillings of 30 acrylic teeth were scanned twice by a Micro‐CT, before and after immersion in ultrapure water for 168 h. Digital data were reconstructed, and the volume (mm3) of the samples was obtained using CTan software (CTan v1.11.10.0, SkyScan). The data were statistically analysed by the anova, Tukey, Kruskal–Wallis and Dunn's tests.

Results

The radiopacity was higher (P < 0.05) when the 4 : 1 proportion was utilized. The setting time was longer, and the pH level and calcium ion release were higher (P < 0.05) with a greater volume of water. The group with more water (2 : 1) had significantly (P < 0.05) more material volume loss (6.46%) compared with the other groups.

Conclusions

The ratio of powder/water significantly interfered with the physical and chemical properties of white MTA Angelus.
Nurses' preferred end‐of‐life treatment choices in five countries
Authors: Coffey A. , McCarthy G. , Weathers E. , Friedman M.I. , Gallo K. , Ehrenfeld M. , Itzhaki M. , Chan S. , Li W.H.C. , Poletti P. , Zanotti R. , Molloy D.W. , McGlade C. , Fitzpatrick J.J.
Published: April 2013

Background

Previous research has focused on physician's perspectives of end‐of‐life (EOL) decision making as well as patient and family EOL decision making. There is a lack of research pertaining to the EOL treatment preferences of nurses and especially nurses working in a variety of care settings.

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare nurses' EOL treatment preferences in Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy and the USA.

Methods

A comparative descriptive design was used with a convenience sample of nurses (n = 1089). A survey questionnaire using EOL hypothetical clinical case scenarios was used to collect data between June 2011 and July 2012.

Results

Nurses in every country consistently chose a more aggressive option for patients than for themselves or for a parent. The treatment preferences of nurses varied from country to country. Lack of knowledge of patients' wishes and duty of care were the main influencing factors on treatment preferences.

Study Limitations

The study was limited to the hypothetical nature of the scenarios; however, the study highlights numerous future research questions.

Conclusions

This study is the first to examine and compare nurses' preferred EOL treatment choices in five countries from three different continents. The findings of this study raise several important questions for healthcare researchers, for policy development, and highlight the need for further international collaboration.
Actuarial balance sheets as a tool to assess the sustainability of social security pension systems
Authors: Billig Assia , Ménard Jean‐Claude
Published: April 2013

The choice of the methodology used to produce a social security pension system's balance sheet is mainly determined by the system's financing approach. In this article, it is shown using the example of the Canada Pension Plan that if the assessment of the financial sustainability of a pay‐as‐you‐go or partially funded system is done through the means of an actuarial balance sheet, then the methodology used should take into account future contributions of current and future participants. The balance sheets produced using the open group approach, as well as methodologies used in United States and Sweden, are discussed.
Couple communication among problem drinking males and their spouses: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Walitzer Kimberly , Dermen Kurt , Shyhalla Kathleen , Kubiak Audrey
Published: April 2013

This study evaluated the effects of alcohol‐focused spouse involvement and behavioural couple therapy (BCT) on couple communication in the context of group drinking reduction treatment for male problem drinkers. Sixty‐four male clients and their female partners were randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (i) treatment for problem drinkers only (PDO), (ii) couple alcohol‐focused treatment or (iii) couple alcohol‐focused treatment combined with BCT. Couples whose partners participated in the treatment made fewer negative statements during a couple conflict communication task following treatment than PDO couples. The beneficial effect of spouse involvement on negative couple communication was partially mediated by a reduction in the frequency of clients’ heavy drinking during treatment. There was also evidence that BCT reduced couples’ negative communication and increased problem‐solving communication.

Practitioner points

Involving the spouse in group drinking reduction treatment for male problem drinkers can improve drinking outcome.

Therapists can encourage spouses to decrease counterproductive behaviour and engage in behaviour supportive of drinking reduction.

Actively involving the spouse can decrease negative statements during problem‐solving communications.

Reduction in negative communication may be a result of, rather than a cause of, the male partner's drinking reduction.
Tuber production, dormancy and resistance against Phthorimaea operculella (Zeller) in wild potato species
Authors: Horgan F. G. , Quiring D. T. , Lagnaoui A. , Pelletier Y.
Published: April 2013

The diversification of resistant potato varieties at a landscape level could slow adaptation by Phthorimaea operculella to potato resistance and promote sustainable crop protection. In this study, we assessed wild potato species as novel sources of foliage and tuber resistance against P. operculella. Tuber resistance was quantified for 136 and foliage resistance for 54 potato accessions representing 14 and nine potato species, respectively. Several accessions were highly resistant to moth damage in tubers and/or foliage. In particular, Solanum chiquidenum and Solanum sandemanii were highly resistant to damage in tubers. Several accessions of Solanum multiinterruptum and a small number of accessions of Solanum bukasovii, Solanum berthaultii, Solanum sparsipilum and Solanum wittmackii also had highly resistant tubers. Larval survival on foliage of S. bukasovii and S. chiquidenum was generally low. New resistance sources are listed, and insect performance on the plants is described with possible resistance mechanisms. The study also examined potential trade‐offs associated with resistance. Tuber resistance was negatively correlated with the number and weight of tubers produced per plant, but positively correlated with the length of dormancy across accessions, indicating that, although long dormancy is not a prerequisite for resistance, species and accessions with extended dormancy will have more resistant tubers. Tuber and foliage resistance were generally positively correlated across all accessions; however, among accessions from within a potato species, there were negative (S. berthaultii), positive (S. chiquidenum) and non‐significant (S. bukasovii) relations. These results indicate that, besides identifying novel resistance sources, an improved understanding of the mechanisms and inherent trade‐offs associated with tuber and foliage resistance will improve the efficiency of potato breeding programmes aimed at enhancing resistance against P. operculella.
Involvement of the K+‐Cl− co‐transporter KCC2 in the sensitization to morphine‐induced hyperlocomotion under chronic treatment with zolpidem in the mesolimbic system
Authors: Shibasaki Masahiro , Masukawa Daiki , Ishii Kazunori , Yamagishi Yui , Mori Tomohisa , Suzuki Tsutomu
Published: April 2013

Benzodiazepines are commonly used as sedatives, sleeping aids, and anti‐anxiety drugs. However, chronic treatment with benzodiazepines is known to induce dependence, which is considered related to neuroplastic changes in the mesolimbic system. This study investigated the involvement of K+‐Cl− co‐transporter 2 (KCC2) in the sensitization to morphine‐induced hyperlocomotion after chronic treatment with zolpidem [a selective agonist of γ‐aminobutyric acid A‐type receptor (GABAAR) α1 subunit]. In this study, chronic treatment with zolpidem enhanced morphine‐induced hyperlocomotion, which is accompanied by the up‐regulation of KCC2 in the limbic forebrain. We also found that chronic treatment with zolpidem induced the down‐regulation of protein phosphatase‐1 (PP‐1) as well as the up‐regulation of phosphorylated protein kinase C γ (pPKCγ). Furthermore, PP‐1 directly associated with KCC2 and pPKCγ, whereas pPKCγ did not associate with KCC2. On the other hand, pre‐treatment with furosemide (a KCC2 inhibitor) suppressed the enhancing effects of zolpidem on morphine‐induced hyperlocomotion. These results suggest that the mesolimbic dopaminergic system could be amenable to neuroplastic change through a pPKCγ‐PP‐1‐KCC2 pathway by chronic treatment with zolpidem.
Experimental determination of the vertical alignment between the second and third transmembrane segments of muscle nicotinic acetylcholine receptors
Authors: Mnatsakanyan Nelli , Jansen Michaela
Published: April 2013

Nicotinic acetylcholine receptors (nAChR) are members of the Cys‐loop ligand‐gated ion channel superfamily. Muscle nAChR are heteropentamers that assemble from two α, and one each of β, γ, and δ subunits. Each subunit is composed of three domains, extracellular, transmembrane and intracellular. The transmembrane domain consists of four α‐helical segments (M1–M4). Pioneering structural information was obtained using electronmicroscopy of Torpedo nAChR. The recently solved X‐ray structure of the first eukaryotic Cys‐loop receptor, a truncated (intracellular domain missing) glutamate‐gated chloride channel α (GluClα) showed the same overall architecture. However, a significant difference with regard to the vertical alignment between the channel‐lining segment M2 and segment M3 was observed. Here, we used functional studies utilizing disulfide trapping experiments in muscle nAChR to determine the spatial orientation between M2 and M3. Our results are in agreement with the vertical alignment as obtained when using the GluClα structure as a template to homology model muscle nAChR, however, they cannot be reconciled with the current Torpedo nAChR model. The vertical M2–M3 alignments as observed in X‐ray structures of prokaryotic Gloeobacter violaceus ligand‐gated ion channel and GluClα are in agreement. Our results further confirm that this alignment in Cys‐loop receptors is conserved between prokaryotes and eukaryotes.
Nurses’ Preparedness and Perceived Competence in Managing Disasters
Authors: Baack Sylvia , Alfred Danita
Published: April 2013

Purpose

This article is a descriptive analysis of rural nurses’ perceived readiness to manage disaster situations.

Design and Methods

The 58‐item Disaster Readiness Questionnaire was used to survey hospital‐based nurses from rural communities in Texas during the summer of 2011. The data were collected by emailing a link through the various hospital intranet sites, resulting in a sample size of 620 nurses.

Results

Findings revealed that most nurses are not confident in their abilities to respond to major disaster events. The nurses who were confident were more likely to have had actual prior experience in disasters or shelters. Self‐regulation of behavior (motivation) was a significant predictor of perceived nurse competence to manage disasters only in regard to the nurse's willingness to assume the risk of involvement in a disaster situation. Healthcare climate (job satisfaction) was not a determinant of disaster preparedness.

Conclusions

Global increases in natural and human‐induced disasters have called attention to the part that health providers play in mitigation and recovery. Since nurses are involved in planning, mitigation, response, and recovery aspects of disasters, they should actively seek opportunities to participate in actual disaster events, mock drills, and further educational opportunities specific to disaster preparedness. Administrators must support and encourage disaster preparedness education of nurses to promote hospital readiness to provide community care delivery in the event of a disaster situation.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing comprises the largest healthcare workforce, and yet there is very little research examining nurses’ readiness for disaster.
Effect of mouth breathing on masticatory muscle activity during chewing food
Authors: Ikenaga N. , Yamaguchi K. , Daimon S.
Published: April 2013

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of mouth breathing on masticatory muscle activity during chewing food. Masseter muscle activity during chewing of a rice ball was recorded in 45 adult volunteers (three women), identified as nose breathers. Surface electrodes were placed on the skin according to the orientation of the masseter muscle to record the activity of this muscle while the subjects chewed the food until swallowing. Each activity was recorded twice, once with nose breathing and once with mouth breathing induced by nasal obstruction. The integrated and mean electromyography values for mouth breathing were significantly lower than the values for nose breathing (P < 0·05). The resting and total duration of chewing were significantly prolonged (P < 0·05) and the active duration significantly shorter (P < 0·05) when breathing through the mouth compared with the nose. Significantly more chewing strokes were counted for mouth breathing compared with nose breathing (P < 0·05). Taken together, the results indicate that mouth breathing decreases chewing activity and reduces the vertical effect upon the posterior teeth.
More Frequent Vaginal Orgasm Is Associated with Experiencing Greater Excitement from Deep Vaginal Stimulation
Authors: Brody Stuart , Klapilova Katerina , Krejčová Lucie
Published: April 2013

Introduction

Research indicated that: (i) vaginal orgasm (induced by penile–vaginal intercourse [PVI] without concurrent clitoral masturbation) consistency (vaginal orgasm consistency [VOC]; percentage of PVI occasions resulting in vaginal orgasm) is associated with mental attention to vaginal sensations during PVI, preference for a longer penis, and indices of psychological and physiological functioning, and (ii) clitoral, distal vaginal, and deep vaginal/cervical stimulation project via different peripheral nerves to different brain regions.

Aims

The aim of this study is to examine the association of VOC with: (i) sexual arousability perceived from deep vaginal stimulation (compared with middle and shallow vaginal stimulation and clitoral stimulation), and (ii) whether vaginal stimulation was present during the woman's first masturbation.

Methods

A sample of 75 Czech women (aged 18–36), provided details of recent VOC, site of genital stimulation during first masturbation, and their recent sexual arousability from the four genital sites.

Main Outcome Measures

The association of VOC with: (i) sexual arousability perceived from the four genital sites and (ii) involvement of vaginal stimulation in first-ever masturbation.

Results

VOC was associated with greater sexual arousability from deep vaginal stimulation but not with sexual arousability from other genital sites. VOC was also associated with women's first masturbation incorporating (or being exclusively) vaginal stimulation.

Conclusions

The findings suggest (i) stimulating the vagina during early life masturbation might indicate individual readiness for developing greater vaginal responsiveness, leading to adult greater VOC, and (ii) current sensitivity of deep vaginal and cervical regions is associated with VOC, which might be due to some combination of different neurophysiological projections of the deep regions and their greater responsiveness to penile stimulation.