bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Force-induced apoptosis mediated by the Rac/Pak/p38 signalling pathway is regulated by filamin A
Authors: Shifrin Yulia , Pinto Vanessa I. , Hassanali Abbas , Arora Pamma D. , McCulloch Christopher A.
Published: April 2012

Cells in mechanically challenged environments cope with high-amplitude exogenous forces that can lead to cell death, but the mechanisms that mediate force-induced apoptosis and the identity of mechanoprotective cellular factors are not defined. We assessed apoptosis in NIH 3T3 and HEK (human embryonic kidney)-293 cells exposed to tensile forces applied through β1-integrins. Apoptosis was mediated by Rac-dependent activation of p38α. Depletion of Pak1 (p21-activated kinase 1), a downstream effector of Rac, prevented force-induced p38 activation and apoptosis. Rac was recruited to sites of force transfer by filamin A, which inhibited force-induced apoptosis mediated by Rac and p38α. We conclude that, in response to tensile force, filamin A regulates Rac-dependent signals, which induce apoptosis through Pak1 and p38.
Regulation of intracellular membrane trafficking and cell dynamics by syntaxin-6
Authors: Jung Jae-Joon , Inamdar Shivangi M. , Tiwari Ajit , Choudhury Amit
Published: April 2012

Intracellular membrane trafficking along endocytic and secretory transport pathways plays a critical role in diverse cellular functions including both developmental and pathological processes. Briefly, proteins and lipids destined for transport to distinct locations are collectively assembled into vesicles and delivered to their target site by vesicular fusion. SNARE (soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor-attachment protein receptor) proteins are required for these events, during which v-SNAREs (vesicle SNAREs) interact with t-SNAREs (target SNAREs) to allow transfer of cargo from donor vesicle to target membrane. Recently, the t-SNARE family member, syntaxin-6, has been shown to play an important role in the transport of proteins that are key to diverse cellular dynamic processes. In this paper, we briefly discuss the specific role of SNAREs in various mammalian cell types and comprehensively review the various roles of the Golgi- and endosome-localized t-SNARE, syntaxin-6, in membrane trafficking during physiological as well as pathological conditions.
Moderate-to-high-intensity training and a hypocaloric Mediterranean diet enhance endothelial progenitor cells and fitness in subjects with the metabolic syndrome
Authors: Fernández Juan Marcelo , Rosado-Álvarez Daniel , Da Silva Grigoletto Marzo Edir , Rangel-Zúñiga Oriol Alberto , Landaeta-Díaz Leslie Lorena , Caballero-Villarraso Javier , López-Miranda José , Pérez-Jiménez Francisco , Fuentes-Jiménez Francisco
Published: April 2012

A reduction in EPC (endothelial progenitor cell) number could explain the development and progression of atherosclerosis in the MetS (metabolic syndrome). Although much research in recent years has focused on the Mediterranean dietary pattern and the MetS, the effect of this diet with/without moderate-to-high-intensity endurance training on EPCs levels and CrF (cardiorespiratory fitness) remains unclear. In the present study, the objective was to assess the effect of a Mediterranean diet hypocaloric model with and without moderate-to-high-intensity endurance training on EPC number and CrF of MetS patients. Thus 45 MetS patients (50–66 years) were randomized to a 12-week intervention with the hypocaloric MeD (Mediterranean diet) or the MeDE (MeD plus moderate-to-high-intensity endurance training). Training included two weekly supervised sessions [80% MaxHR (maximum heart rate); leg and arm pedalling] and one at-home session (65–75% MaxHR; walking controlled by heart rate monitors). Changes in: (i) EPC number [CD34+KDR+ (kinase insert domain-containing receptor)], (ii) CrF variables and (iii) MetS components and IRH (ischaemic reactive hyperaemia) were determined at the end of the study. A total of 40 subjects completed all 12 weeks of the study, with 20 in each group. The MeDE led to a greater increase in EPC numbers and CrF than did the MeD intervention (P≤0.001). In addition, a positive correlation was observed between the increase in EPCs and fitness in the MeDE group (r=0.72; r2=0.52; P≤0.001). Body weight loss, insulin sensitivity, TAGs (triacylglycerols) and blood pressure showed a greater decrease in the MeDE than MeD groups. Furthermore, IRH was only improved after the MeDE intervention. In conclusion, compliance with moderate-to-high-intensity endurance training enhances the positive effects of a model of MeD on the regenerative capacity of endothelium and on the fitness of MetS patients.
Pollen morphology of the Myrtaceae. Part 4: tribes Kanieae, Myrteae and Tristanieae
Authors: Thornhill Andrew H. , Hope Geoff S. , Craven Lyn A. , Crisp Michael D.
Published: April 2012

Pollen morphology of 44 genera and 101 species from the Myrtaceae tribes Kanieae, Myrteae and Tristanieae was surveyed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy (LM). Most Myrteae pollen were brevicolpate and granulate, which is unique within Myrtaceae, and these are most likely ancestral characters for this tribe. Two main pollen types were observed in tribe Kanieae, one form being with syncolpate colpi and a distinctive granulate exine, and the other with parasyncolpate colpi and a less ornamented exine. Genera Tristania and Thaleropia of tribe Tristanieae produce the smallest pollen in Myrtaceae, whereas Octamyrtus of tribe Myrteae produces the largest pollen observed in Myrtaceae.
Callous-Unemotional Traits and Happy Victimization: Relationships with Delinquency in a Sample of Detained Girls
Authors: Kunimatsu Melissa , Marsee Monica , Lau Katherine , Fassnacht Gregory
Published: April 2012

The current study examined associations between callous-unemotional (CU) traits (total CU, callousness, uncaring, and unemotional), happy victimization (i.e., the experience of positive emotions or absence of negative emotions following a transgression) and delinquency (total, violent, and nonviolent) in 59 detained girls (78% African American, 22% Caucasian) aged 12 to 18 years. Results indicated positive associations between happy victimization, CU traits, and delinquency. Happy victimization was also positively associated with delinquency, even when controlling for CU traits. Further, the callousness dimension of CU traits selectively moderated these relationships such that happy victimization was positively associated with total delinquency and violent delinquency only under high callousness conditions.
Developing Non-Arbitrary Metrics for Risk Communication: Percentile Ranks for the Static-99/R and Static-2002/R Sexual Offender Risk Tools
Authors: Hanson R.Karl , Lloyd CalebD. , Helmus Leslie , Thornton David
Published: April 2012

The aim of this article was to advance risk communication by examining percentile ranks as a non-arbitrary metric for quantifying risk. Although percentile ranks have a simple meaning, their calculation is complicated by ties (i.e., more than one offender having the same score). The strengths and weaknesses of percentile ranks are discussed, as are the options for calculating and presenting them in applied risk communication. As a demonstration, percentile ranks for Canadian sexual offenders were computed for the most popular sexual offender risk assessment tools (Static-99, Static-99R, Static-2002 and Static-2002R). The distribution of Static-99 scores was highly stable in international comparisons of sexual offenders from Canada (1990 to 2005; n = 2,011), Sweden (1993 to 1997; n = 1,278) and California (2008 to 2010; n = 37,600). The major limitation of percentile ranks is that they measure the “unusualness” of scores in a particular reference group, and may not correspond to other indicators of relative or absolute risk. Consequently, we recommend that evaluators presenting percentile ranks should consistently provide recidivism base rate information so that decision makers do not confuse the rarity of a score with estimates of absolute recidivism risk.
Psychopathology in Police Custody: The Role of Importation, Deprivation and Interaction Models
Authors: Baksheev GennadyN. , Thomas StuartD. M. , Ogloff JamesR. P.
Published: April 2012

People experiencing mental illness are over-represented among police cell detainees, however limited work has sought to investigate the occurrence of psychopathology in police custody. The present study sought to examine the predictive power of personal factors (e.g., history of psychiatric hospitalisation), situational factors (e.g., police cell conditions), and their interactive effects to explain the occurrence of psychopathology in police custody. A total of 150 detainees were recruited from two metropolitan police stations in Melbourne, Australia. Personal factors were significantly associated with psychiatric symptomatology, with situational factors and interaction terms yielding no association. Detainees with preexisting vulnerabilities and those unsatisfied with police cell conditions demonstrated the highest levels of psychopathology. While all detainees experience some difficulties in police cells, it is those with pre-existing vulnerabilities that suffer the most. This may be due to the exacerbation of vulnerabilities by police cell conditions. The implications of these findings for provision of health care services in police cells are discussed.
The Errors of Karen Franklin's Pretextuality
Authors: Cantor JamesM.
Published: April 2012

In her recent article, Hebephilia: Quintessence of Diagnostic Pretextuality (published in Behavioral Sciences and the Law, 2010), Karen Franklin expands on her previous argument that psychologists and psychiatrists should not diagnose as abnormal hebephilia, the sexual preference for early pubescent children. She supports her argument with a series of claims about the contents of the empirical literature and the scientists who produced it. The present document provides fact-checking of those claims, revealing that Franklin's conclusions are based largely on demonstrable falsehoods.
Weaning Ages of Bluegill and Redear Sunfish Fry in Indoor Recirculating Aquaculture Systems
Authors: Dudenhoeffer Gregory A , Wetzel James E , Omara-Alwala Thomas R
Published: April 2012

Weaning fry indoors to commercial starter feed reduces the feeding labor and risks related to live food production. Limited work has been done in determining the ideal weaning age in Lepomis species. Our objective was to determine the optimum weaning ages for bluegill Lepomis macrochirus and redear sunfish L. microlophus. Four age-weaning treatments with four replicates of 300 fish per unit were randomly assigned in 32 tanks. Treatments were initiated at 2, 6, 10, and 14 d post–nest exodus by co-feeding a commercial feed with live prey for 6 d. Thereafter, fish received only commercial feed until the experiment was terminated at 35 d. Production and survival at 35 d increased as weaning age increased. The production weights (means ± SEs) of bluegills weaned at 2, 6, 10, and 14 d were 4.3 ± 0.3, 18.9 ± 2.2, 27.3 ± 4.6, and 39.0 ± 1.1 g, and those for redear sunfish were 6.5 ± 1.2, 23.6 ± 3.0, 43.7 ± 2.7, and 56.5 ± 4.2 g. Survival rates were 31.3 ± 1.5, 50.2 ± 3.0, 59.8 ± 2.8, 78.9 ± 2.3% and 12.7 ± 2.2, 32.0 ± 1.4, 52.8 ± 2.5, 71.9 ± 2.8% for bluegills and redear sunfish, respectively. Reported feed conversion ratios and individual weights and lengths tended to increase with weaning age, and no differences were observed between fish weaned at 10 d and those weaned at 14 d. Terminal mean weights were 45.8 ± 1.8, 125.9 ± 12.9, 150.6 ± 19.9, and 165.3 ± 8.0 mg for bluegills and 171.9 ± 8.7, 246.4 ± 31.8, 275.9 ± 12.3, and 262.9 ± 21.5 mg for redear sunfish weaned at 2, 6, 10, and 14 d. Abnormal fish were mostly restricted to fish weaned at 2 and 6 d. This study indicated that delayed weaning times improved the production weights of both species owing mainly to increased survival rates.
Rainbow Smelt Weaning and the Effects of Temperature and Salinity on Juvenile Growth
Authors: Colburn Heidi R , Walker Abigail B , Berlinsky David L
Published: April 2012

The rainbow smelt Osmerus mordax is a small anadromous fish that has potential as an aquaculture species because of its value as a premium baitfish. Three studies were conducted to establish a weaning protocol for larval rainbow smelt and to define the temperature and salinity ranges that support growth during their juvenile stages. In the first study, larvae were randomly assigned to one of two five-phase weaning protocols that lasted for 2 or 3 d per phase (designated P2 and P3, respectively) and a control group that was fed Artemia metanauplii throughout the study (n = 3 tanks per treatment). In the second study, weaned juveniles (approximately 67 d posthatch) were cultured in triplicate tanks at 16, 20, and 24°C and 15 g/L salinity. In the third study, weaned juveniles (approximately 180 d posthatch) were cultured in triplicate tanks at 0, 5, and 15 g/L salinity and at 17°C. Survival in the P2 (20.3%) and P3 (28.4%) treatment groups did not differ, but survival in the P2 group was lower than that in controls (46%). Survival did not differ in weaned juveniles raised at different salinities or temperatures, but growth declined at temperatures higher than 16°C. A high degree of cannibalism was noted in the postmetamorphosed juveniles, and procedures must be developed to minimize this problem in commercial operations.
Enumeration of Small and Large Numerosities: The Effect of Element Visibility
Authors: Palomares Melanie , Smith Paul R. , Pitts Holley C.
Published: April 2012

Precise enumeration is associated with small numerosities within the subitizing range (<4 items), while approximate enumeration is associated with large numerosities (>4 items). To date, there is still debate on whether a single continuous process or dual mutually exclusive processes mediate enumeration of small and large numerosities. Here, we evaluated a compromise between these two notions: that the precise representation of number is limited to small numerosities, but that the approximate representation of numerosity spans across both small and large numerosities. We assessed the independence of precise and approximate enumeration by looking at how luminance contrast affected enumeration of elements that differ by ones (1–8) or by tens (10–80). We found that enumeration functions of ones and tens have different characteristics, which is consistent with the presence of two number systems. Subitizing was preserved for small numerosities. However, simply decreasing element visibility changed the variability signatures of small numerosities to match those of large numerosities. Together, our results suggest that small numerosities are mediated by both precise and approximate representations of numerosity.
Motor interference and facilitation arising from observed movement kinematics
Authors: Hardwick Robert M. , Edwards Martin G.
Published: April 2012

Previous studies demonstrate that observing the movements of others can interfere with concurrent movement execution. This interference effect is attributed to incongruence between the observed and executed movements. The study presented here examined different aspects of observed and executed movement congruency. Participants attempted to trace straight lines in the air using one of two movement tasks while observing an experimenter perform movements varied by their task and spatial congruency. The data revealed that kinematic aspects of the observed movements were incorporated into the observer's own movements. Observing the same kinematics led to interference or facilitation effects depending on whether the direction of the observed movement was congruent or incongruent with the movement the participant performed. These data suggest that low-level properties of observed movements can modulate participant performance.
Field- and time-dependent, local and global magnetization behaviour of out-of-plane textured SmCo5 thin films
Authors: Seifert M , Knittel I , Hartmann U , Schultz L , Neu V
Published: April 2012

This work presents an investigation of the magnetization processes in out-of-plane textured SmCo5 thin films by means of domain observations with magnetic force microscopy (MFM). Starting from the thermally demagnetized state, an applied field was increased stepwise until saturation, and the magnetic domain pattern was recorded at the respective field. Additionally, the change in the domain structure was investigated for the demagnetization branch to observe the full reversal process from positive to negative saturation. In a second experiment, various opposite fields were applied to the film after previous saturation and the time-dependent domain evolution was measured. The directly observed domain behaviour specifies the influence of pinning and nucleation on the magnetizing and demagnetizing process.

From these time-dependent domain images, magnetization curves were constructed and the resulting viscosity is compared with data from global magnetization measurements. The viscosity as determined from MFM data is measurably larger than that deduced from global relaxation measurements, which demonstrates the influence of the tip's magnetization on the reversal mechanism.
Control of the charge/orbital ordering transition in epitaxial La7/8Sr1/8MnO3 thin films through compressive strain
Authors: Hu Ling , Sheng Zhigao , Hu Xinbo , Zhang Ranran , Wang Bo , Song Wenhai , Sun Yuping
Published: April 2012

The effect of compressive strain on charge/orbital ordering (COO) transition in epitaxial La7/8Sr1/8MnO3 (LSMO) thin films was investigated. The compressive strain of LSMO thin films grown on LaAlO3 substrates can be modified by varying the film thickness which was verified by x-ray diffraction and Raman scattering measurements. It was found that both the COO transition and magnetic transition of LSMO thin films could be suppressed by the compressive strain and their transition temperatures could be tuned by strain relaxation. The variation of COO transition with compressive strain can be explained by the strain-dependent lattice deformation by structural phase transition. These results indicate that the lattice degree of freedom plays a crucial role in the stabilization of COO phase in LSMO, and will be beneficial to the understanding of the microscopic origin of the COO phase in lightly doped manganites.
Thermoelastic laser generated ultrasound using a ring source
Authors: Dixon S , Harrison T , Fan Y , Petcher P A
Published: April 2012

A pulsed Nd : YAG laser is focused to a sharp ring on an aluminium sample in the thermoelastic regime. This is achieved by firstly expanding the collimated laser beam before passing it through a bi-convex lens and an axicon lens. The addition of the extra convex lens provides a significant focusing improvement. On thick samples, this shape of acoustic source generates simultaneously a surface Rayleigh wave and bulk waves. The surface waves generated by the ring source travel outwards from the ring and also inwards to focus at a point in the centre of the ring. Large amplitude Rayleigh waves are thus generated at the centre of the ring. The absolute, out-of-plane displacement caused by the acoustic waves travelling along a sample surface is measured using a Michelson interferometer with a bandwidth of approximately 80 MHz. The experimental results have been correlated with those obtained by numerical modelling to show good agreement and less successfully with finite element modelling. The ring acoustic source has various applications for defect detection and measurement, and material characterization.
Investigation of physical processes in CAMILA Hall thruster using electrical probes
Authors: Kronhaus Igal , Kapulkin Alexander , Balabanov Vladimir , Rubanovich Maksim , Guelman Moshe , Natan Benveniste
Published: April 2012

The CAMILA (co-axial magneto-isolated longitudinal anode) concept was developed to improve the anode efficiency in low-power Hall thrusters. Previous measurements, performed in Asher Space Research Institute, have shown that the thruster has the highest efficiency for its class. This paper presents an analysis of the discharge structure in an effort to improve understanding of the physical processes in CAMILA type thrusters. Internal measurements of the discharge parameters were performed using an emissive probe, a biased probe and a Faraday cup. The probes were mounted on a positioning system capable of mapping the channel in two dimensions. Maps for the plasma potential, the ion current density and the electron temperature were obtained. In addition, a one-dimensional fluid model was developed in order to compute the distribution of the plasma density and the ion velocity. The experimental investigations confirmed the basic assumptions used in the physical model of the CAMILA concept and revealed phenomena related to the radial non-uniformity of the discharge. In particular, focusing equipotentials were discovered in the area of intense ionization, reducing ion loss to the walls of the channel. This mechanism is principal in obtaining the high efficiency of the thruster. When operated with strengthened longitudinal magnetic field, the plasma density inside the anode cavity was significantly higher in the middle than near the anodes. The fraction of ion current generated inside the anode cavity was greater than in the simplified case, 19% compared with 13% respectively. In addition, it was shown that electrons in the cusp region, the region between predominately radial to predominately axial magnetic fields, were not well confined, however, no potential hump is created and ions are able to cross this region to the acceleration channel.
An application of the advanced high-accuracy universal polarimeter to the chiroptical measurement of an intercalated compound K4Nb6O17 with high anisotropy
Authors: Tanaka Masahito , Nakamura Naomichi , Koshima Hideko , Asahi Toru
Published: April 2012

The advanced high-accuracy universal polarimeter (HAUP) method was applied to observe anisotropic and chiroptical properties of an intercalated azobenzene derivative compound into K4Nb6O17 crystals. Prior to the HAUP measurement of the intercalated compound, we extended the HAUP method employing a conventional light source system composed of Xe or D2 lamps and a monochromator instead of a laser system. The performance of the advanced HAUP system was evaluated and we determined the parasitic ellipticities of the cross polarizers, which are essential for obtaining accurate values. The optical system was applicable to simultaneously measure the linear dichroism (LD), circular dichroism (CD), linear birefringence (LB) and circular birefringence (CB) spectra of an intercalated compound in the ultraviolet and visible regions. We found the Kramers–Kronig relation between CB and CD as well as in the case of LB and LD. Changes in LB and LD signals as obtained from HAUP measurements originated from the molecular orientation of guest molecules by the intercalation. Moreover, CB and CD signals indicated the appearance of induced chirality in the intercalated azobenzene derivative compound. These results demonstrated the usefulness of the HAUP system for evaluating the molecular conformation of chiral anisotropic specimens.
Improved properties of barium strontium titanate thin films grown on copper foils by pulsed laser deposition using a self-buffered layer
Authors: Liu Shanshan , Ma Beihai , Narayanan Manoj , Chao Sheng , Koritala Rachel , Balachandran Uthamalingam
Published: April 2012

Ba0.6Sr0.4TiO3 (BST) films were deposited by pulsed laser deposition on copper foils with low-temperature self-buffered layers. The deposition conditions included a low oxygen partial pressure and a temperature of 700 °C to crystallize the films without the formation of secondary phases and substrate oxidation. The results from x-ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy indicated that the microstructure of the BST films strongly depended on the growth temperature. The use of the self-buffered layer improved the dielectric properties of the deposited BST films. The leakage current density of the BST films on the copper foil was 4.4 × 10−9 A cm−2 and 3.3 × 10−6 A cm−2 with and without the self-buffered layer, respectively. The ferroelectric hysteresis loop for the BST thin film with buffer layer was slim, in contrast to the distorted loop observed for the film without the buffer layer. The permittivity (7 0 0) and dielectric loss tangent (0.013) of the BST film on the copper foil with self-buffered layer at room temperature were comparable to those of the film on metal and single-crystal substrates.
High-temperature properties of lithium tetraborate Li2B4O7
Authors: Senyshyn A , Boysen H , Niewa R , Banys J , Kinka M , Burak Ya , Adamiv V , Izumi F , Chumak I , Fuess H
Published: April 2012

High-temperature coherent neutron powder diffraction experiments were carried out on Li2B4O7 with boron isotope ratio 11B : 10B as high as 99.6 : 0.4%. Neither traces of phase transformations nor discontinuous changes of physical properties were observed. Anomalies in the thermal expansion of lithium tetraborate were considered in terms of first-order Grüneisen approximation. Extended bond length analysis revealed significant modifications of the boron–oxygen framework which is supplemented by dynamic lithium disorder. Impedance spectroscopy studies revealed a complicated conduction mechanism in single crystalline lithium tetraborate. The lithium diffusion pathway for bulk conductivity along the polar axis was established using both maximum entropy and anharmonic refinement techniques.
Phylogenetic and Biological Characterization of Fusarium oxysporum Isolates Associated with Onion in South Africa
Authors: Southwood Michael J. , Viljoen Altus , Mostert Lizel , Rose Lindy J. , McLeod Adéle
Published: April 2012

Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cepae causes Fusarium basal rot of onion, a disease of worldwide importance. Limited information is available on the phylogenetic diversity, vegetative compatibility groups (VCGs), mating type idiomorphs, and virulence of F. oxysporum isolates associated with onion. Therefore, these characteristics were investigated in 19 F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae isolates from Colorado, 27 F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae and 33 F. oxysporum isolates nonpathogenic to onion from South Africa. Six F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae VCGs (0421 to 0426) were identified, of which three were new. The dominant VCGs in Colorado and South Africa were VCG 0421 (47% of isolates) and VCG 0425 (74%), respectively. VCG 0423 was the only VCG that was shared between the two regions. Molecular phylogenies (intergenic spacer region of the rDNA, elongation factor 1α, and mitochondrial small-subunit) confirmed the polyphyletic nature of F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae and showed that some F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae and nonpathogenic F. oxysporum isolates were genetically related. Most F. oxysporum f. sp. cepae isolates clustered into two distinct, well-supported clades. The largest clade only contained highly virulent isolates, including the two main VCGs (0421 and 0425), whereas the basal clade mostly contained moderately virulent isolates. These groupings along with the VCG data provide an important basis for selection of isolates for use in breeding programs, and for the development of molecular makers to identify VCGs. Mating type genotyping revealed the distribution of both mating type (MAT1-1 and MAT1-2) idiomorphs across phylogenetic clades, and the fact that several isolates contained both idiomorphs.
Evidence for Morphological, Vegetative, Genetic, and Mating-Type Diversity in Sclerotinia homoeocarpa
Authors: Liberti Daniele , Rollins Jeffrey A. , Harmon Philip F.
Published: April 2012

Morphology, vegetative compatibility groups, and molecular characteristics were compared among 47 isolates of the dollar spot pathogen Sclerotinia homoeocarpa. Isolates were collected from cool- and warm-season turfgrasses in Florida and the northern United States. Mycelial pigment accumulation, substratal stromata formation, and symptom development were used to separate the collection into two distinct morphological types: a common-type (C-type) and a Floridian-type (F-type). Phylogenetic relationships estimated from ITS sequences supported the morphological typing. Identification and characterization of the S. homoeocarpa mating-type locus revealed an idiomorphic organization for both C- and F-types with nearly equal frequencies of each mating types present in both groups. These findings suggest heterothallic control of mating and indicate potential for outcrossing in both groups. Dollar spot disease of turfgrass in Florida is caused by two distinct morphological types of S. homoeocarpa which may be cryptic species. These findings could have implications for disease management.
Virulence Profile and Genetic Structure of a North Dakota Population of Pyrenophora teres f. teres, the Causal Agent of Net Form Net Blotch of Barley
Authors: Liu Z. H. , Zhong S. , Stasko A. K. , Edwards M. C. , Friesen T. L.
Published: April 2012

A Pyrenophora teres f. teres population in North Dakota was analyzed for virulence variation and genetic diversity using 75 monospore isolates that were collected across a 4-year period (2004 to 2007) from two North Dakota State University agricultural experiment stations at Fargo and Langdon. Pathogenicity tests by inoculation onto 22 barley differential lines at seedling stage revealed 49 pathotypes, indicating a wide range of pathogenic diversity. Two-way analysis of variance of disease ratings revealed a significant difference in the virulence among isolates and in the resistance among barley lines, as well as in the interactions between the two. ‘CI5791’, ‘Algerian’, and ‘Heartland’ were three barley lines showing a high level of seedling resistance to all North Dakota isolates tested; however, many previously reported resistance genes have been overcome. Forty multilocus genotypes were identified from this set of isolates by genotyping at 13 simple-sequence repeat loci. High percentages of clonal cultures were detected in the samplings from 2005 and 2007 in Fargo and 2005 in Langdon. Using a clone-corrected sample set, the mean gene diversity (h) was estimated to be 0.58, approximately the same for both locations. The calculated Wright's FST value is small (0.11) but was significantly >0, indicating a significant differentiation between the Fargo and Langdon populations. In the gametic disequilibrium test, only 3 of 78 possible pairwise comparisons over all isolates showed significant (P < 0.05) nonrandom association, suggesting a random mating mode. Our results suggest that the populations from the two locations are derived from a common source and undergo frequent recombination. This research provides important information for barley breeders regarding development and deployment of cultivars with resistance to net form net blotch in this region.
Low dose ionizing radiation produces too few reactive oxygen species to directly affect antioxidant concentrations in cells
Authors: Smith J. T. , Willey N. J. , Hancock J. T.
Published: April 2012

It has been hypothesized that radiation-induced oxidative stress is the mechanism for a wide range of negative impacts on biota living in radioactively contaminated areas around Chernobyl. The present study tests this hypothesis mechanistically, for the first time, by modelling the impacts of radiolysis products within the cell resulting from radiations (low linear energy transfer β and γ), and dose rates appropriate to current contamination types and densities in the Chernobyl exclusion zone and at Fukushima. At 417 µGy h
−1
(illustrative of the most contaminated areas at Chernobyl), generation of radiolysis products did not significantly impact cellular concentrations of reactive oxygen species, or cellular redox potential. This study does not support the hypothesis that direct oxidizing stress is a mechanism for damage to organisms exposed to chronic radiation at dose rates typical of contaminated environments.
Soil-mediated indirect impacts of an invasive predator on plant growth
Authors: Wardle David A. , Bellingham Peter J. , Fukami Tadashi , Bonner Karen I.
Published: April 2012

While several studies have shown that invasive plant effects on soil biota influence subsequent plant performance, corresponding studies on how invasive animals affect plants through influencing soil biota are lacking. This is despite the fact that invasive animals often indirectly alter the below-ground subsystem. We studied 18 offshore islands in northern New Zealand, half of which have been invaded by rats that are predators of seabirds and severely reduce their densities, and half of which remain non-invaded; invasion of rats thwarts seabird transfer of resources from ocean to land. We used soil from each island in a glasshouse experiment involving soil sterilization treatments to determine whether rat invasion indirectly influences plant growth through the abiotic pathway (by impairing seabird-driven inputs to soil) or the biotic pathway (by altering the soil community). Rat invasion greatly impaired plant growth but entirely through the abiotic pathway. Plant growth was unaffected by the soil community or its response to invasion, meaning that the responses of plants and soil biota to invasion are decoupled. Our results provide experimental evidence for the powerful indirect effects that predator-instigated cascades can exert on plant and ecosystem productivity, with implications for the restoration of island ecosystems by predator removal.
Biomaterials research in China
Authors: Zhang Xingdong , Cui Fuzhai
Published: April 2012

It is a great honour that
Interface Focus
will publish a special issue to introduce the progress and achievements of biomaterials research in China. We feel it is a good opportunity to present the progress in Chinese biomaterials research to the international biomaterials community, and to promote the collaboration between international and Chinese biomaterials scientists.
The influence of altruism on influenza vaccination decisions
Authors: Shim Eunha , Chapman Gretchen B. , Townsend Jeffrey P. , Galvani Alison P.
Published: April 2012

Game theory is based on the assumption that individuals act according to self-interest and make decisions that maximize their personal payoffs. To test this fundamental assumption, we conducted a survey study in the context of influenza vaccination decisions. Contrary to the assumption of self-interest, we found that altruism plays an important role in vaccination decisions. Nevertheless, altruistic motivation has not yet been considered in epidemiological models, in predictions of vaccination decisions or in the design of vaccination policies. To determine the impact of altruism on the adherence to optimal vaccination policies and on resulting disease burden, we incorporated altruism into a game-theoretic epidemiological model of influenza vaccination. We found that altruism significantly shifted vaccination decisions away from individual self-interest and towards the community optimum, greatly reducing the total cost, morbidity and mortality for the community. Therefore, promoting altruism could be a potential strategy to improve public health outcomes.
Plant–soil feedbacks provide an additional explanation for diversity–productivity relationships
Authors: Kulmatiski Andrew , Beard Karen H. , Heavilin Justin
Published: April 2012

Plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs) have gained attention for their role in plant community dynamics, but their role in productivity has been overlooked. We developed and tested a biomass-specific, multi-species model to examine the role of PSFs in diversity–productivity relationships. The model predicts a negative relationship between PSFs and overyielding: plants with negative PSFs grow more in communities than in monoculture (i.e. overyield), and plants with positive PSFs grow less in communities than in monoculture (i.e. underyield). This effect is predicted to increase with diversity and saturate at low species richness because the proportion of ‘self-cultivated’ soils rapidly decreases as species are added to a community. Results in a set of glasshouse experiments supported model predictions. We found that PSFs measured in one experiment were negatively correlated with overyielding in three-species plant communities measured in a separate experiment. Furthermore, when parametrized with our experimental PSF data, our model successfully predicted species-level overyielding and underyielding. The model was less effective at predicting community-level overyielding and underyielding, although this appeared to reflect large differences between communities with or without nitrogen-fixing plants. Results provide conceptual and experimental support for the role of PSFs in diversity–productivity relationships.
Biomineral ultrastructure, elemental constitution and genomic analysis of biomineralization-related proteins in hemichordates
Authors: Cameron C. B. , Bishop C. D.
Published: April 2012

Here, we report the discovery and characterization of biominerals in the acorn wormsSaccoglossus bromophenolosusandPtychodera flava galapagos(Phylum: Hemichordata). Using electron microscopy, X-ray microprobe analyses and confocal Raman spectroscopy, we show that hemichordate biominerals are small CaCO3aragonitic elements restricted to specialized epidermal structures, and inS. bromophenolosus,are apparently secreted by sclerocytes. Investigation of urchin biomineralizing proteins in the translated genome and expressed sequence tag (EST) libraries ofSaccoglossus kowalevskiiindicates that three members of the urchin MSP-130 family, a carbonic anhydrase and a matrix metaloprotease are present and transcribed during the development ofS. kowalevskii. The SM family of proteins is absent from the hemichordate genome. These results increase the number of phyla known to biomineralize and suggest that some of the gene-regulatory ‘toolkit’, if not mineralized tissue themselves, may have been present in the common ancestor to hemichordates and echinoderms.
Warming alters community size structure and ecosystem functioning
Authors: Dossena Matteo , Yvon-Durocher Gabriel , Grey Jonathan , Montoya José M. , Perkins Daniel M. , Trimmer Mark , Woodward Guy
Published: April 2012

Global warming can affect all levels of biological complexity, though we currently understand least about its potential impact on communities and ecosystems. At the ecosystem level, warming has the capacity to alter the structure of communities and the rates of key ecosystem processes they mediate. Here we assessed the effects of a 4°C rise in temperature on the size structure and taxonomic composition of benthic communities in aquatic mesocosms, and the rates of detrital decomposition they mediated. Warming had no effect on biodiversity, but altered community size structure in two ways. In spring, warmer systems exhibited steeper size spectra driven by declines in total community biomass and the proportion of large organisms. By contrast, in autumn, warmer systems had shallower size spectra driven by elevated total community biomass and a greater proportion of large organisms. Community-level shifts were mirrored by changes in decomposition rates. Temperature-corrected microbial and macrofaunal decomposition rates reflected the shifts in community structure and were strongly correlated with biomass across mesocosms. Our study demonstrates that the 4°C rise in temperature expected by the end of the century has the potential to alter the structure and functioning of aquatic ecosystems profoundly, as well as the intimate linkages between these levels of ecological organization.
Incidence and estimated annual cost of emergency laparotomy in England: is there a major funding shortfall?*
Authors: Shapter S. L. , Paul M. J. , White S. M.
Published: April 2012

Significant recent interest has focussed on improving outcomes after emergency laparotomy. This retrospective database analysis estimated the annual incidence and associated inpatient costs of emergency laparotomy in England. Demographic, process and outcome data were collected for all patients undergoing emergency laparotomy in Brighton for two calendar years (2009–2010). Cost analysis assumed £16 per minute theatre time, and £282 per day ward bed and £1382 per day critical care bed costs. National incidence was confirmed from Hospital Episode Statistics and Office of National Statistics mid‐year population data. In total, 768 patients underwent 850 emergency laparotomies. The incidence of emergency laparotomy was estimated as ∼1:1100 population. Thirty‐six percent (276 patients) were admitted for a median (IQR [range]) of 5 (3–11 [1–76]) days of critical care. Postoperative median (IQR [range]) length of stay was 13 (8–24 [1–176]) days. Our estimated annual inpatient cost of emergency laparotomy for Brighton was ∼£5 million, equivalent to ∼£13 000 per patient, and for England, an annual estimated cost of ∼£650 million. However, ‘Payment by Results’ reimbursement amounted to a mean (SD) hospital income of just £6905 (2639) per patient, a net financial loss of ∼£6100 per patient, equivalent to a reimbursement shortfall nationally of ∼£300 million. We also found that patients > 70 years (46%) had significantly higher 30‐day postoperative mortality (18% vs 6%, p < 0.0001), significantly prolonged median (IQR [range]) length of stay (15 (10–26 [1–123]) days vs 12 (7–22 [1–176]) days, p < 0.001) and incurred higher costs (median (IQR [range]) £9667 (6620–15 732 [1920–103 624]) vs £7467 (4975–14 251 [1178–118 060]), p < 0.001). Emergency laparotomy is a common procedure associated with considerable cost, particularly among elderly patients. A National Emergency Laparotomy Database will help provide an evidence base on which to improve clinical outcome and cost efficiency.
Developing an intervention to promote young people’s participation in asthma review consultations with practice nurses
Authors: Milnes Linda J. , McGowan Linda , Campbell Malcolm , Callery Peter
Published: April 2012

Aim.  The article is a report of a study to develop an evidence‐based pre‐consultation guide for young people to use prior to an asthma review with a practice nurse.

Background.  The participation of young people aged 13–19 in consultations with health professionals can be limited by the lack of opportunity to learn the appropriate skills in triadic consultations. Evidence‐based interventions to promote participation of adults in consultations have been developed but young people’s needs have not been specifically addressed.

Design.  Multiple methods design informed by guidelines for the development of complex interventions.

Methods.  A pre‐consultation guide for young people was developed in 2007 by application of a model of health behaviour change, development of criteria by an expert panel and in consultation with young people using a nominal group technique.

Results.  The concepts of the Health Action Process Approach model were applied to the development of criteria underpinning the pre‐consultation guide. In the nominal groups young people agreed that they had different needs to other children and adults. The consensus was that the preconsultation guide should include disease‐specific information, realistic photographs rather than Clip Art, consistent styles of fonts, bullet points and colours, short words and mature language. Statements and example questions written by young people were included in the evidence‐based guide.

Conclusion.  Young people’s views can contribute to the development of interventions designed to promote communication in consultations with nurses. There is potential for this approach to be used to develop interventions in primary and secondary care of a range of long‐term conditions.
Dignity Therapy for older people in care homes: a qualitative study of the views of residents and recipients of ‘generativity’ documents
Authors: Goddard Cassie , Speck Peter , Martin Pauline , Hall Sue
Published: April 2012

Aim.  To report the findings of a study exploring the views and experiences of care home resident’s family on Dignity Therapy.

Background.  As the proportion of older people dying in care homes increases, it is important to enhance their dignity, reduce distress at the end‐of‐life, and provide bereavement support to their families. Pilot studies show that hospice patients and care home residents feel Dignity Therapy had or would help their families; however, there are no qualitative studies of their views.

Design.  Qualitative exploration.

Methods.  Qualitative interviews were conducted between January 2009–March 2010 with 14 family members of care home residents who had received Dignity Therapy. The Framework approach to qualitative analysis was used.

Findings.  Four categories are reported: views on the document: impact on residents; impact on family; and potential impact on care homes. While contact with the therapist provided much needed company for residents, Dignity Therapy helped residents reappraise aspects of their lives positively, while enjoying the opportunity to reminisce. Concerns focused on resident’s anxiety over document content. Memory problems and perceived lack of distress in some residents were viewed as factors affecting delivery and impact of Dignity Therapy. Family discovered new information and were prompted to discuss the content with them. For bereaved family members, documents provided comfort during their grief. If made available to carers, documents could enhance care delivery in homes.

Conclusion.  Family members felt Dignity Therapy had helped them and the residents. Findings suggest that Dignity Therapy may be useful for enhancing the end‐of‐life experience for residents and their families.
Functional health literacy, medication‐taking self‐efficacy and adherence to antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Colbert Alison M. , Sereika Susan M. , Erlen Judith A.
Published: April 2012

colbert a.m., sereika s.m. & erlen j.a. (2012) Functional health literacy, medication‐taking self‐efficacy and adherence to antiretroviral therapy. Journal of Advanced Nursing69(2), 295–304. doi: 10.1111/j.1365‐2648.2012.06007.x

Aims.  To report a study of the relationship between functional health literacy and medication adherence, as mediated by medication‐taking self‐efficacy, while controlling for the effect of key demographic variables (such as race, income and level of education).

Background.  Medication adherence is critical to successful HIV/AIDS self‐management. Despite simplified regimens and the availability of tools to assist with medication‐taking, adherence remains a challenge for many people living with HIV/AIDS.

Design.  Cross‐sectional, secondary analysis.

Methods.  Data for this study of 302 adults living with HIV/AIDS who were taking antiretroviral medications were collected from January 2004–December 2007. Medication adherence was measured using electronic event monitors. Bivariate analyses and stepwise regression were conducted to examine the associations among functional health literacy, medication‐taking self‐efficacy and HIV medication adherence.

Results.  Overall, functional health literacy was much higher than expected; however, adherence in this sample was sub‐optimal. Higher medication‐taking self‐efficacy was associated with higher medication adherence; however, functional health literacy was not significantly related to either medication adherence or self‐efficacy beliefs. Hence, medication‐taking self‐efficacy did not mediate the relationship between functional health literacy and medication adherence.

Conclusions.  Medication adherence continues to be an issue for people living with HIV/AIDS. Additional research is needed to understand the disparate findings related to functional health literacy and medication adherence in this and other studies examining this association.