bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aire unleashes stalled RNA polymerase to induce ectopic gene expression in thymic epithelial cells
Authors: Giraud Matthieu , Yoshida Hideyuki , Abramson Jakub , Rahl Peter B. , Young Richard A. , Mathis Diane , Benoist Christophe
Published: December 2011

Aire is a transcriptional regulator that induces expression of peripheral tissue antigens (PTA) in thymic medullary epithelial cells (MECs), driving immunological self-tolerance in differentiating T cells. To elucidate its mechanistic pathways, we examined its transcriptional impact in MECs in vivo by microarray analysis with mRNA-spanning probes. This analysis revealed initiation of Aire-activated genes to be comparable in Aire-deficient and wild-type MECs, but with a block to elongation after 50–100 bp in the absence of Aire, suggesting activation by release of stalled polymerases by Aire. In contrast, patterns of activation by transcription factors such as Klf4 were consistent with regulation of initiation. Mapping of Aire and RNA polymerase-II (Pol-II) by ChIP and high-throughput sequencing (ChIP-seq) revealed that Aire bound all Pol-II–rich transcriptional start sites (TSS), irrespective of its eventual effect. However, the genes it preferentially activated were characterized by a relative surfeit of stalled polymerases at the TSS, which resolved once Aire was introduced into cells. Thus, transcript mapping and ChIP-seq data indicate that Aire activates ectopic transcription not through specific recognition of PTA gene promoters but by releasing stalled polymerases.
The channel kinase,
TRPM7
, is required for early embryonic development
Authors: Jin Jie , Wu Long-Jun , Jun Janice , Cheng Xiping , Xu Haoxing , Andrews Nancy C. , Clapham David E.
Published: December 2011

Global disruption of
transient receptor potential-melastatin-like 7
(
Trpm7
) in mice results in embryonic lethality before embryonic day 7. Using tamoxifen-inducible disruption of
Trpm7
and multiple
Cre recombinase
lines, we show that
Trpm7
deletion before and during organogenesis results in severe tissue-specific developmental defects. We find that
Trpm7
is essential for kidney development from metanephric mesenchyme but not ureteric bud. Disruption of neural crest
Trpm7
at early stages results in loss of pigment cells and dorsal root ganglion neurons. In contrast, late disruption of brain-specific
Trpm7
after embryonic day 10.5 does not alter normal brain development. We developed induced pluripotent stem cells and neural stem (NS) cells in which
Trpm7
disruption could be induced.
Trpm7
−/−
NS cells retained the capacities of self-renewal and differentiation into neurons and astrocytes. During in vitro differentiation of induced pluripotent stem cells to NS cells,
Trpm7
disruption prevents the formation of the NS cell monolayer. The in vivo and in vitro results demonstrate a temporal requirement for the Trpm7 channel kinase during embryogenesis.
A Study of Puroindoline b Gene Involvement in the Milling Behavior of Hard‐Type Common Wheats
Authors: Lasme Privat , Oury François‐Xavier , Michelet Christophe , Abécassis Joël , Mabille Frédéric , L'Helgouac'h Christine Bar , Lullien‐Pellerin Valérie
Published: December 2011

Differences in milling behavior among hard‐type common wheat (Triticum aestivum) cultivars are well known to millers. Among them, the French cultivar Soissons, which contains the Pinb‐D1d allelic form of the puroindoline b gene, is particularly distinguished for its high milling value. Near‐isogenic lines (NILs) differing by the allelic forms of the puroindoline b gene, Pinb‐D1d or Pinb‐D1b (one of the most frequent alleles found in the European wheat population), were constructed. Grain characteristics obtained after wheat cultivation in distinct environmental conditions were compared between NILs and the cultivar Soissons, as was their fractionation behavior. Results showed that NILs containing the Pinb‐D1d allele displayed lower values of grain hardness and vitreousness than did the corresponding lines containing the Pinb‐D1b allelic form under the same cultivation conditions. Both genetic background and environmental conditions appeared to affect grain texture. Measured single‐kernel characterization system hardness index values of the samples under study were found to be correlated with the vitreousness values. Studies of the milling behavior helped to point out that grain vitreousness is an important factor acting on endosperm breakage ability, whatever the genetic background of the wheat. Our results also demonstrated that, at similar levels of vitreousness, the endosperm of Soissons could more easily be reduced than that of other wheat lines.
Adaptation to Brassica Host Genotypes by a Single-Spore Isolate and Population of Plasmodiophora brassicae (Clubroot)
Authors: LeBoldus J. M. , Manolii V. P. , Turkington T. K. , Strelkov S. E.
Published: December 2011

Plasmodiophora brassicae, the cause of clubroot of crucifers, is an increasingly important pathogen of canola (Brassica napus) in Alberta, Canada. In response, clubroot-resistant canola genotypes are being deployed to help reduce yield losses. Two experiments were conducted to examine the effect on P. brassicae virulence of repeated exposure of a population and single-spore isolate of the pathogen to the same host. The first experiment examined changes in the index of disease over five cycles of infection on seven Brassica hosts (European Clubroot Differential [ECD] 02, ECD 04, ECD 05, ECD 15, ‘45H26’, ‘45H29’, and 08N823R). The second experiment tested the virulence of five cycled populations (‘45H29’, 08N823R, ECD 05, and ECD 15) and three cycled single-spore isolates (‘45H29’, 08N823R, and ECD05) on four resistant canola genotypes (‘73-77’, ‘73-67’, VT-SD-09, and ‘9558C’). The results from these experiments clearly demonstrate the ability of both single-spore isolates and populations of P. brassicae to rapidly erode the resistance present in the two canola genotypes, ‘45H29’ and 08N823R. Although the index of disease increased on these two genotypes, the four resistant canola genotypes remained resistant to all the cycled populations and single-spore isolates in the second experiment. These results underscore the importance of crop rotation in the management of clubroot in Alberta.
Zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 promotes vasculogenic mimicry in colorectal cancer through induction of epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition
Authors: Liu Zhiyong , Qi Lisha , Li Hui , Gao Jun , Leng Xue
Published: December 2011

Our previous studies have shown that epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) may be involved in the vasculogenic mimicry (VM) formation in hepatocellular carcinoma. Here, we hypothesize that zinc finger E‐box binding homeobox 1 (ZEB1) promotes VM formation in colorectal carcinoma (CRC) by inducing EMT. We identified VM in 39 (19.2%) out of 203 CRC patients. The presence of VM was associated with aggressive biological behavior and was an unfavorable prognostic indicator. By immunohistochemical analysis, we found that the VM‐positive CRC samples showed increased ZEB1 expression compared with the VM‐negative samples and the ZEB1 expression occurred concomitantly with features of EMT. In vitro, knockdown of ZEB1 in poorly differentiated HCT116 CRC cells destroyed the vessel‐like structures in the 3‐D culture, a property associated with VM formation. Knockdown of ZEB1 resulted in restoration of epithelial phenotypes and significantly inhibited the ability to migrate and invade. In addition, ZEB1 underexpression decreased the expression of vascular endothelial (VE)‐cadherin and Flk‐1, which are characteristics of endothelial cells. Taken together, our results suggest that ZEB1 can promote VM formation by inducing EMT in CRC and might represent an important target in CRC. (Cancer Sci 2012; 103: 813–820)
Spirometric values in elderly asthmatic patients are not influenced by obesity
Authors: Agondi R. C. , Bisaccioni C. , Aun M. V. , Ribeiro M. R. , Kalil J. , Giavina‐Bianchi P.
Published: December 2011

Background

Studies have suggested that asthma in obese individuals differs from the classic asthma phenotype, presenting as a disease that is more difficult to control.

Objective

The objective of the present study was to determine whether obesity, age or a combination of the two are associated with worse spirometry parameters in patients with asthma.

Methods

This was an observational cross‐sectional study involving patients over 18 years of age who had been diagnosed with asthma (allergic or nonallergic). We evaluated the results of their spirometric tests. The patients were classified in accordance with two criteria: body mass index (BMI) and age. Based on their BMIs, the patients were divided into three groups: normal weight, overweight and obese. Patients were also separated into two categories by age: 18–59 years of age; and ≥ 60 years of age.

Results

We evaluated 451 patients with asthma and their spirometry tests. In the present study, the pulmonary function parameters were negatively correlated with BMI and age (P < 0.05). We found that there was a statistically significant correlation between spirometric values and BMI among patients 18–59 years of age (P < 0.001), however, among patients over 60, we did not observe this negative association.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The spirometric values decreased significantly in proportion to the increase of BMI and age in patients with asthma, especially among young adults. There was no negative correlation between BMI and FEV1 in the group ≥ 60 years of age, suggesting that perhaps the time of disease is a major factor in the loss of lung function than weight gain in the elderly.
Analysis of the role ofBacillus subtilisσMin β‐lactam resistance reveals an essential role for c‐di‐AMP in peptidoglycan homeostasis
Authors: Luo Yun , Helmann John D.
Published: December 2011

TheBacillus subtilisextracytoplasmic function (ECF) σ factor σMis inducible by, and confers resistance to, several cell envelope‐acting antibiotics. Here, we demonstrate that σMis responsible for intrinsic β‐lactam resistance, with σXplaying a secondary role. Activation of σMupregulates several cell wall biosynthetic enzymes including one, PBP1, shown here to be a target for the beta‐lactam cefuroxime. However, σMstill plays a major role in cefuroxime resistance even in cells lacking PBP1. To better define the role of σMin β‐lactam resistance, we characterized suppressor mutations that restore cefuroxime resistance to asigMnull mutant. The most frequent suppressors inactivatedgdpP(yybT) which encodes a cyclic‐di‐AMP phosphodiesterase (PDE). Intriguingly, σMis a known activator ofdisAencoding one of three paralogous diadenylate cyclases (DAC). Overproduction of the GdpP PDE greatly sensitized cells to β‐lactam antibiotics. Conversely, genetic studies indicate that at least one DAC is required for growth with depletion leading to cell lysis. These findings support a model in which c‐di‐AMP is an essential signal molecule required for cell wall homeostasis. Other suppressors highlight the roles of ECF σ factors in counteracting the deleterious effects of autolysins and reactive oxygen species in β‐lactam‐treated cells.
Distinct roles of two ceramide synthases, CaLag1p and CaLac1p, in the morphogenesis of Candida albicans
Authors: Cheon Seon Ah , Bal Jyotiranjan , Song Yunkyoung , Hwang Hai‐min , Kim Ah Ruem , Kang Woo Kyu , Kang Hyun Ah , Hannibal‐Bach Hans K. , Knudsen Jens , Ejsing Christer S. , Kim Jeong‐Yoon
Published: December 2011

Lag1p and Lac1p catalyse ceramide synthesis in Saccharomyces cerevisiae. This study shows that Lag1 family proteins are generally required for polarized growth in hemiascomycetous yeast. However, in contrast to S. cerevisiae where these proteins are functionally redundant, C. albicans Lag1p (CaLag1p) and Lac1p (CaLac1p) are functionally distinct. Lack of CaLag1p, but not CaLac1p, caused severe defects in the growth and hyphal morphogenesis of C. albicans. Deletion of CaLAG1 decreased expression of the hypha‐specific HWP1 and ECE1 genes. Moreover, overexpression of CaLAG1 induced pseudohyphal growth in this organism under non‐hypha‐inducing conditions, suggesting that CaLag1p is necessary for relaying signals to induce hypha‐specific gene expression. Analysis of ceramide and sphingolipid composition revealed that CaLag1p predominantly synthesizes ceramides with C24:0/C26:0 fatty acid moieties, which are involved in generating inositol‐containing sphingolipids, whereas CaLac1p produces ceramides with C18:0 fatty acid moieties, which are precursors for glucosylsphingolipids. Thus, our study demonstrates that CaLag1p and CaLac1p have distinct substrate specificities and physiological roles in C. albicans.
Resveratrol induces gastric cancer cell apoptosis via reactive oxygen species, but independent of sirtuin1
Authors: Wang Zhengguang , Li Weiping , Meng Xiangling , Jia Benli
Published: December 2011

The currently available chemotherapeutic regimens against gastric cancer are not very effective, leading to high recurrence and poor survival. Resveratrol is a naturally occurring polyphenol with potent apoptosis‐inducing activity. However, the mechanism underlying its actions remains unknown.

In the present study, human gastric adenocarcinoma SGC7901 cells were treated with resveratrol (0, 25, 50, 100 and 200 μmol/L) for 48 h, and cellular apoptosis DNA damage were determined. In certain experiments, cells were incubated with superoxide dismutase (100 U/mL), catalase (300 U/mL) or sirtinol (10 μmol/L) to determine the role of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and sirtuin1 in resveratrol‐induced cellular apoptosis.

Treatment with resveratrol (50–200 μmol/L) for 48 h significantly induced apoptosis and DNA damage in human gastric cancer SGC7901 cells. This was due to the increased generation of ROS following resveratrol treatment because incubation of cells with superoxide dismutase (100 U/mL) or catalase (300 U/mL) attenuated resveratrol‐induced cellular apoptosis. Interestingly, treatment with resveratrol (25–200 μmol/L) did not affect the level and activity of sirtuin1, whereas the sirtuin1 inhibitor sirtinol (10 μmol/L) significantly reduced sirtuin1 activity. Furthermore, treatment with sirtinol (10 μmol/L) did not have any effect on apoptosis induced by resveratrol.

These data provide evidence that resveratrol induces apoptosis via ROS, but independent of sirtuin1, in the human gastric cancer cell line SGC7901.
Multiple resource limitation theory applied to herbivorous consumers: Liebig’s minimum rule vs. interactive co‐limitation
Authors: Sperfeld Erik , Martin‐Creuzburg Dominik , Wacker Alexander
Published: December 2011

Ecology Letters(2011)

There is growing consensus that the growth of herbivorous consumers is frequently limited by more than one nutrient simultaneously. This understanding, however, is based primarily on theoretical considerations and the applicability of existing concepts of co‐limitation has rarely been tested experimentally. Here, we assessed the suitability of two contrasting concepts of resource limitation, i.e. Liebig’s minimum rule and the multiple limitation hypothesis, to describe nutrient‐dependent growth responses of a freshwater herbivore (Daphnia magna) in a system with two potentially limiting nutrients (cholesterol and eicosapentaenoic acid). The results indicated that these essential nutrients interact, and do not strictly follow Liebig’s minimum rule, which consistently overestimates growth at co‐limiting conditions and thus is not applicable to describe multiple nutrient limitation of herbivorous consumers. We infer that the outcome of resource‐based modelling approaches assessing herbivore population dynamics strongly depends on the applied concept of co‐limitation.
Decreased peripheral blood mitochondrial DNA content is related to HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose level and age of onset in Type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Xu F. X. , Zhou X. , Shen F. , Pang R. , Liu S. M.
Published: December 2011

Diabet. Med. 29, e47–e54 (2012)

Aims  Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) content is essential for maintaining normal mitochondrial function, and the mitochondrial function is critical for the production and the release of insulin in Type 2 diabetes mellitus. We investigated whether peripheral blood mtDNA content was reduced in Type 2 diabetes, and what were the major factors?

Methods  The mtDNA content of peripheral blood in a sample of 147 Type 2 diabetes and 170 normal Chinese subjects was determined by amplification of the mitochondrial gene CYT‐B and normalized by a nuclear DNA β‐globin gene. Fasting plasma glucose, HbA1c, fasting plasma insulin and lipid profile (HDL‐cholesterol, LDL‐cholesterol, total cholesterol, triglyceride) were analysed with commercial kits on an automatic analyser.

Results  In Type 2 diabetes group, the mean HbA1c was 62 mmol/mol (7.8%). Moreover, BMI, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, fasting plasma glucose, LDL‐cholesterol, triglyceride, fasting plasma insulin and homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance were significantly higher in Type 2 diabetes group than that in control group. Peripheral blood mtDNA content was 24% lower than that in the controls (1.4 ± 0.5 vs. 1.8 ± 0.7, P < 0.001). The mtDNA content was negatively correlated with BMI, fasting plasma glucose, fasting plasma insulin, homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance (P < 0.01), and age, triglyceride and LDL‐cholesterol levels (P < 0.05); while positively correlated with HDL‐cholesterol level (P < 0.05) in both groups. Stepwise regression analysis indicated that HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose and age of onset were the major factors affecting the mtDNA content in the Type 2 diabetes group; however, BMI was the only variable associated with lower mtDNA content in control group.

Conclusion  Our results demonstrate that lower peripheral blood mtDNA content is associated with Type 2 diabetes in Chinese individuals, and HbA1c, fasting plasma glucose and age of onset are the major factors affecting the mtDNA content.
When do we really need interpersonal trust in globally dispersed new product development teams?
Authors: Muethel Miriam , Siebdrat Frank , Hoegl Martin
Published: December 2011

Interpersonal trust refers to the willingness to make oneself vulnerable to the actions of another party. Trust is generally acknowledged as fostering knowledge exchange and thus contributing to new product development (NPD) team effectiveness. However, the conditions under which NPD teams come to rely more heavily on trust to facilitate effectiveness remain unclear. With burgeoning global collaboration on new product development, we analyze how the characteristics of global NPD teams, i.e., geographic dispersion, computer‐mediated communication (e.g., e‐mail, video‐conferencing), team membership flexibility, and national diversity moderate the trust–effectiveness relationship. Our results show that trust is more important under the condition of geographic dispersion, computer‐mediated communication, and national diversity. By specifying when trust influences NPD team effectiveness in globally dispersed teams, we discuss the theoretical implications and provide recommendations for management.
International shipping and national economic growth: shipping earnings and the Greek economy in the nineteenth century 1
Authors: Harlaftis Gelina , Kostelenos George
Published: December 2011

In Greece, a small peripheral European economy, the service sector and shipping in particular played a highly important role in nineteenth‐century economic development. Despite its importance, however, the difficulty of calculating the ‘invisible earnings’ from the shipping industry's engagement in international activities has led to its underestimation in most analyses of the country's economic growth. This article presents the first estimation of Greek shipping income in the nineteenth century. In addition, it examines the shipping industry within the context of Greek development as a whole, highlighting its significant role in the fully marketized and integrated area of the country's economy in the context of a wider world economy.
Developing Countries Will Follow Post‐crisis OECD Reforms but Not Passively This Time
Authors: ANDREWS MATT
Published: December 2011

Will reforms emerging from the 2008 crisis have a global impact and influence developing countries? Evidence suggests that this happened before, after meltdowns in the 1970s. This article deconstructs how reforms diffused in this period and why countries followed different reform timelines. Institutional theory and a descriptive analysis of post‐1970s experience suggest that countries followed different reform paths. Developing countries copied reforms seen as legitimate in various OECD countries, supported by entities upon which developing countries were dependent. The article argues that developing countries may not follow the same path now. Endogenous discussions about reform options are more common in developing countries now. More external reform alternatives have also emerged from new development partners such as China, and it is unclear that countries such as the USA will chart postcrisis reform paths developing countries perceive as worthy of following.
Into an Age of Multiple Austerities? Public Management and Public Service Bargains across OECD Countries
Authors: LODGE MARTIN , HOOD CHRISTOPHER
Published: December 2011

This article focuses on Public Service Bargains (PSBs) in the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) world in an age of austerity and makes four main claims. First, both logic and recent history suggest that states can respond to financial crises in more than one way. Second, we argue that the pressures on existing PSBs are not all the same in this group of states, given observable differences in their financial vulnerability. Third, we analyze countries' differential exposure to two other major challenges, namely, that of population aging and environmental risk. Fourth, we show that those areas of vulnerability can counteract one another in some cases but be mutually reinforcing in others, and we argue that “triply vulnerable” states in a composite analysis are those likely to face the strongest pressure to change their existing PSBs. We conclude that while homogenizing pressures cannot be ignored, PSB diversity is likely to continue.
Ideas and Coordination in Policymaking: The Financial Crisis of 2007–2009
Authors: GIEVE JOHN , PROVOST COLIN
Published: December 2011

Policy change occurs because coalitions of actors are able to take advantage of political conditions to translate their strong beliefs about policy into ideas, which are turned into policy. A coalition's ability to define a problem helps to keep policies in place, but it can also cause coalitions to develop blind spots. For example, policy subsystem actors will often neglect the need for coordination between governmental actors. We examine the financial crisis of 2007–2009 to show how entrenched policy ideas can cause subsystem actors to overlook the need for policy coordination. We first analyze the prevalent idea that policymakers should aim to keep inflation low and stable while employing light touch regulation to financial markets. We then demonstrate how this philosophy led to a lack of coordination between monetary and regulatory policy in the subprime mortgage market. We conclude with thoughts about the need for coordination in future economic policy.
Description and Validation of an Italian ICHD‐II‐Based Questionnaire for Use in Epidemiological Research
Authors: Abrignani Giorgia , Ferrante Tullia , Castellini Paola , Lambru Giorgio , Beghi Ettore , Manzoni Gian Camillo , Torelli Paola
Published: December 2011

Background.— In the absence of biological markers, the diagnosis of primary headache in epidemiological studies rests on clinical findings, as reported through ad‐hoc interviews.

Objectives.— The aim of this study was to validate a specially designed headache questionnaire to be administered by a physician for the diagnosis of primary headaches or of probable medication overuse headache in the general population according to the 2004 International Classification of Headache Disorders, 2nd edition (ICHD‐II).

Methods.— The questionnaire comprises 76 questions based on the ICHD‐II diagnostic criteria for migraine (codes 1.1, 1.2.1, 1.2.2, 1.2.3, 1.5.1, and 1.6), tension‐type headache (codes 2.1, 2.2, 2.3, and 2.4), primary stabbing headache (code 4.1), and probable medication‐overuse headache (code 8.2.7), as well as on other clinical features (eg, age at onset, relation between headache and pregnancy, etc). The answers to each question could be of the following types: (1) numbers (ie, age at onset); (2) “Yes” or “No” (eg, as in reply to “Do you have nausea during headache?”); and (3) predefined answers (eg, quality of pain). We assessed the validity and reliability of the questionnaire and its sensitivity and specificity for migraine and tension‐type headache.

Results.— The study population consisted of 50 patients (37 women and 13 men) aged 18‐76 years (mean, 40.7) seen for the first time on a consecutive basis at the University of Parma Headache Centre. The questionnaire was administered independently by 2 trained physicians (E1 and E2) prior to the visit performed by a headache specialist taken as the gold standard (GS). GS, E1, and E2 were blind to the diagnosis made by each others. If appropriate, more than 1 headache type were considered. When present, we defined the 2 different headache types in the same subject as Diagnosis 1 and Diagnosis 2. Questionnaire‐based diagnosis was compared with the diagnosis established by GS. For Diagnosis 1 (n = 50), we found an agreement rate of 98% (K‐value: 0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88‐1.00) between E1 and GS and between E2 and GS, and of 96% (K‐value: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.80‐1.00) between E1 and E2. For Diagnosis 2 (n = 24), we found an agreement rate of 83.3% (K‐value: 0.80; 95% CI: 0.63‐0.98) between E1 and GS, of 62.5% (K‐value: 0.62; 95% CI: 0.41‐0.82) between E2 and GS, and of 70.8% (K‐value: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.45‐0.87) between E1 and E2. Sensitivity and specificity were 100% and 93.3%, respectively, for migraine without aura (code 1.1) and 100% for frequent episodic tension‐type headache (code 2.2).

Conclusion.— Our findings support the use of this questionnaire as a valid and reliable tool for diagnosis of headaches in epidemiological studies.
THE EFFECTS OF ULTRAVIOLET‐B RADIATION ON ANTARCTIC SEA‐ICE ALGAE1
Authors: Ryan Ken G. , McMinn Andrew , Hegseth Else N. , Davy Simon K.
Published: December 2011

The impacts of ultraviolet‐B radiation (UVB) on polar sea‐ice algal communities have not yet been demonstrated. We assess the impacts of UV on these communities using both laboratory experiments on algal isolates and by modification of the in situ spectral distribution of the under‐ice irradiance. In the latter experiment, filters were attached to the upper surface of the ice so that the algae were exposed in situ to treatments of ambient levels of PAR and UV radiation, ambient radiation minus UVB, and ambient radiation minus all UV. After 16 d, significant increases in chl a and cell numbers were recorded for all treatments, but there were no significant differences among the different treatments. Bottom‐ice algae exposed in vitro were considerably less tolerant to UVB than those in situ, but this tolerance improved when algae were retained within a solid block of ice. In addition, algae extracted from brine channels in the upper meter of sea ice and exposed to PAR and UVB in the laboratory were much more tolerant of high UVB doses than were any bottom‐ice isolates. This finding indicates that brine algae may be better adapted to high PAR and UVB than are bottom‐ice algae. The data indicate that the impact of increased levels of UVB resulting from springtime ozone depletion on Antarctic bottom‐ice communities is likely to be minimal. These algae are likely protected by strong UVB attenuation by the overlying ice and snow, by other inorganic and organic substances in the ice matrix, and by algal cells closer to the surface.
Lifestyle and the Risk of Dementia in Japanese‐American Men
Authors: Gelber Rebecca P. , Petrovitch Helen , Masaki Kamal H. , Abbott Robert D. , Ross George Webster , Launer Lenore J. , White Lon R.
Published: December 2011

Objectives

To determine whether adhering to a healthy lifestyle in midlife may reduce the risk of dementia.

Design

Case–control study nested in a prospective cohort.

Setting

The Honolulu‐Asia Aging Study, Oahu, Hawaii.

Participants

Three thousand four hundred sixty‐eight Japanese‐American men (mean age 52 in 1965–1968) examined for dementia 25 years later.

Measurements

Men at low risk were defined as those with the following midlife characteristics: nonsmoking, body mass index (BMI) less than 25.0 kg/m2, physically active, and having a healthy diet (based on alcohol, dairy, meat, fish, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and ratio of monounsaturated to saturated fat). Logistic regression was used to calculate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for developing overall dementia, Alzheimer's disease (AD), and vascular dementia (VaD), adjusting for potential confounders.

Results

Dementia was diagnosed in 6.4% of men (52.5% with AD, 35.0% with VaD). Examining the risk factors individually, BMI was most strongly associated with greater risk of overall dementia (OR = 1.87, 95% CI = 1.26–2.77; BMI > 25.0 vs <22.6 kg/m2). All of the individual risk factors except diet score were significantly associated with VaD, whereas none were significantly associated with AD alone. Men with all four low‐risk characteristics (7.2% of the cohort) had the lowest OR for overall dementia (OR = 0.36, 95% CI = 0.15–0.84). There were no significant associations between the combined low‐risk characteristics and the risk of AD alone.

Conclusion

Among Japanese‐American men, having a healthy lifestyle in midlife is associated with a lower risk of dementia in late life.
Differentiating Conflicts in Beliefs Versus Value Tradeoffs in the Domestic Intelligence Policy Debate
Authors: Dillon Robin L. , Lester Genevieve , John Richard S. , Tinsley Catherine H.
Published: December 2011

Since the 9/11 terrorist attacks, there has been an increase in public discussion regarding U.S. domestic intelligence activities. Domestic intelligence activities focus on gathering information about potential threats from individuals within the United States, and completely rational members of the public can have different opinions about the acceptability of various alternatives depending on one's values toward privacy, civil liberty, and security. Past studies have demonstrated that construction of a multiobjective value model can help clarify public values in controversial risk debates. This research explores a range of domestic intelligence alternatives that vary on multiple objectives, and applies value‐focused thinking to develop a multiattribute utility model to evaluate and compare the alternatives. The process demonstrates the feasibility of eliciting model parameters from individuals and provides a method for identifying the locus of possible disagreements among individuals. The development of the model is described first, followed by insights found from participants who provided both value tradeoffs and performance scores for six different domestic intelligence alternatives. The participants were two student groups and a group of police officers. The analysis showed differences among weights for an additive model for different stakeholder groups and differences among the performance scores. In particular, there is a “halo” effect for alternatives, such that its supporters ranked the alternative higher on all attributes compared to respondents who find the alternative unacceptable. This modeling approach and results offer organizations such as the Department of Homeland Security insights into the debate surrounding new policy initiatives, particularly those requiring sensitive value tradeoffs.
Motivational Bases and Emotional Labor: Assessing the Impact of Public Service Motivation
Authors: Hsieh Chih‐Wei , Yang Kaifeng , Fu Kai‐Jo
Published: December 2011

Emotional labor has become an important topic in the study of organizational behavior, but no research has examined how it is affected in individuals’ motivational bases. Public administration scholars have started to study this concept, but empirical studies are still in their infancy. Focusing on a particular type of motivational base—public service motivation (PSM), this article assesses how PSM and its three dimensions (attraction to policy making, commitment to public interest, and compassion) affect two common emotional labor activities (surface acting and deep acting). Using data from a survey of certified public management students, the results show that PSM is negatively associated with surface acting and positively associated with deep acting. Among the PSM dimensions, attraction to policy making is positively associated with surface acting; compassion is negatively associated with surface acting and positively associated with deep acting; and commitment to public interest is not associated with surface acting or deep acting.
A Rapid Wire‐Based Sampling Method for DNA Profiling*
Authors: Chen Tong , Catcheside David E. A. , Stephenson Alice , Hefford Chris , Paul Kirkbride K. , Burgoyne Leigh A.
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  This paper reports the results of a commission to develop a field deployable rapid short tandem repeat (STR)‐based DNA profiling system to enable discrimination between tissues derived from a small number of individuals. Speed was achieved by truncation of sample preparation and field deployability by use of an Agilent 2100 BioanalyserTM. Human blood and tissues were stabbed with heated stainless steel wire and the resulting sample dehydrated with isopropanol prior to direct addition to a PCR. Choice of a polymerase tolerant of tissue residues and cycles of amplification appropriate for the amount of template expected yielded useful profiles with a custom‐designed quintuplex primer set suitable for use with the BioanalyserTM. Samples stored on wires remained amplifiable for months, allowing their transportation unrefrigerated from remote locations to a laboratory for analysis using AmpFlSTR® Profiler Plus® without further processing. The field system meets the requirements for discrimination of samples from small sets and retains access to full STR profiling when required.
A Comparison of DNA Collection and Retrieval from Two Swab Types (Cotton and Nylon Flocked Swab) when Processed Using Three QIAGEN Extraction Methods
Authors: Brownlow Robert J. , Dagnall Kathryn E. , Ames Carole E.
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  The Metropolitan Police Service currently uses cotton swabs to retrieve DNA for forensic profiling. Recently, a new nylon flocked swab type has become available from Copan (MicroRheologics, Brescia, Italy) that it is claimed, offers increased sample recovery and release yields. If true, the flocked swab may have important applications in DNA evidence retrieval. This study examines the DNA retrieval capability of cotton and nylon flocked swabs when extracted using three common extraction platforms (QIAcube, BioRobot EZ1 and manually processed QIAamp DNA investigator kit). Results indicate that both swab types are capable of recovering high percentages of DNA (>50%); however, the extraction platform selected was shown to have a significant effect upon DNA retrieval. Across all experiments, the cotton swab combined with the spin‐column extractions was shown to be most effective, with the nylon swab and BioRobot EZ1 combination being the least effective. These findings illustrate the importance of extraction method selection.
The Rate of Dissipation of Mouth Alcohol in Alcohol Positive Subjects
Authors: Sterling Kari
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Seven subjects participated in a two‐part study to evaluate mouth alcohol dissipation in alcohol positive subjects. In part one, subjects rinsed their mouths with a vodka solution and were breath tested after 1, 2, 3, 4, and 5 min intervals. On average, breath alcohol concentration (BrAC) decreased 20.4% (range 3.2–47.9%) between 1 and 2 min after rinsing. In part two of the study, multiple breath tests were administered after rinsing once with the vodka solution. The BrAC decreased more than 0.020 g/210 L between the first and second tests for all subjects (average 0.095 g/210 L, range 0.021–0.162 g/210 L). The average time for subjects to reach their unbiased BrAC was 9.35 min (range 4–13 min) after rinsing. This study reaffirms the need for duplicate breath testing and confirms that the minimum of a 15‐min observation period is sufficient for mouth alcohol to dissipate in alcohol positive subjects.
Spread and Habitat Selection of Chrysomya albiceps (Wiedemann) (Diptera Calliphoridae) in Northern Italy: Forensic Implications
Authors: Lambiase Simonetta , Camerini Giuseppe
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Habitat selection exploited by Chrysomya albiceps during its initial spread in Northern Italy was analyzed in relation to landscape structure. The results of two short studies and a case report are here discussed. C. albiceps was not found on experimental pig carcasses in the urban area of Pavia. It was missing in the woody mountains surrounding Lecco, but it was found in the same area, at a lower altitude, within the typical “urban sprawl” landscape. It was then recorded in a natural reserve, among a rich carrion‐fly population. Indications coming from habitat selection suggest that C. albiceps has not yet saturated its potential ecological niche in newly colonized areas of Northern Italy. Factors like temperature, altitude, and interspecific competition can act as limiting factors, affecting habitat selection and distribution in newly colonized areas; the influence of those factors has to be taken into account for forensic purposes.
Whole Body Postmortem Magnetic Resonance Angiography
Authors: Ruder Thomas D. , Hatch Gary M. , Ebert Lars C. , Flach Patricia M. , Ross Steffen , Ampanozi Garyfalia , Thali Michael J.
Published: December 2011

Abstract:  Computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance (MR) imaging have become important elements of forensic radiology. Whereas the feasibility and potential of CT angiography have long been explored, postmortem MR angiography (PMMRA) has so far been neglected. We tested the feasibility of PMMRA on four adult human cadavers. Technical quality of PMMRA was assessed relative to postmortem CT angiography (PMCTA), separately for each body region. Intra‐aortic contrast volumes were calculated on PMCTA and PMMRA with segmentation software. The results showed that technical quality of PMMRA images was equal to PMCTA in 4/4 cases for the head, the heart, and the chest, and in 3/4 cases for the abdomen, and the pelvis. There was a mean decrease in intra‐aortic contrast volume from PMCTA to PMMRA of 46%. PMMRA is technically feasible and allows combining the soft tissue detail provided by MR and the information afforded by angiography.
Interaction of 3,4‐Methylenedioxymethamphetamine and Methamphetamine During Metabolism byIn VitroHuman Metabolic Enzymes and in Rats*
Authors: Kuwayama Kenji , Tsujikawa Kenji , Miyaguchi Hajime , Kanamori Tatsuyuki , Iwata Yuko T. , Inoue Hiroyuki
Published: December 2011

Abstract: Illicit amphetamine‐type stimulant (ATS) tablets commonly contain one or more active ingredients, which have hallucinogenic and/or stimulant effects. Because components such as 3,4‐methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) and methamphetamine (MA) in ATS tablets have similar chemical structures, they could be metabolized by common metabolic enzymes. To investigate potential metabolic interactions of ATS tablet components, we studied thein vitrometabolism of MDMA and MA using human metabolic enzymes. MDMA and MA were mainly metabolized by cytochrome P450 2D6 (CYP2D6) and mutually inhibited the production of their main metabolites.In vivoexperiments were also performed using intravenous administration of MDMA, MA, or their mixture to rats. The plasma concentrations of MDMA and MA after co‐administration were higher than those after administration of MDMA or MA alone. The results in this study imply that multiple components in ATS tablets can interact to mutually inhibit their metabolism and potentially enhance the toxicity of each component.
The ‘epidemic’ of melanoma between under‐ and overdiagnosis
Authors: Weyers Wolfgang
Published: December 2011

In the past decades, the incidence of melanoma has been reported to rise in epidemic proportions. The chief reason for that pseudo‐epidemic is improved criteria for diagnosis that allow melanomas to be recognized far more accurately and at earlier stages. The rising number of melanomas diagnosed has resulted in increased diagnostic scrutiny, more pigmented lesions being biopsied and more melanomas recognized, thus enhancing the ‘epidemic’ in self‐perpetuating fashion. Regression of melanomas may, in part, explain why lesions undetected before did not result in a far higher mortality. Another potential reason for the disparity between increasing incidence of melanoma and relatively steady mortality may be overdiagnosis of melanoma. The latter may be curtailed by establishment of well‐defined diagnostic categories, efforts to establish reliable criteria for recognition of those categories, better clinicopathologic correlation, postponement of biopsy of pigmented lesions in the case of irritation and excisional rather than incisional biopsies.

Weyers W. The ‘epidemic’ of melanoma between under‐ and overdiagnosis.
Predictors and protective factors for adolescent Internet victimization: results from a 2008 nationwide Danish youth survey
Authors: Helweg‐Larsen Karin , Schütt Nina , Larsen Helmer B
Published: December 2011

Aim:  To examine the rate of Internet victimization in a nationally representative sample of adolescents aged 14–17 and to analyze predictors and protective factors for victimization.

Methods:  Data were collected for 3707 pupils in Danish schools in 2008, using a multimedia computer‐based self‐interviewing programme. Family characteristics, alcohol and drug abuse, exposure to physical/sexual abuse, emotional problems, social conduct and own risky Internet behaviour were included in the analyses.

Results:  Any online victimization was reported by 27% of the adolescents, most frequently a rumour spread online (9% of boys and 15% of girls) and sexual solicitation (5% of boys and 16% of girls). Parental surveillance of adolescents’ Internet use significantly reduced their risk of online victimization. Roughly half of the adolescents had met Internet acquaintances face to face, with few instances resulting in forced sex (five boys and nine girls). Female gender, parental physical violence, previous exposure to sexual abuse, alcohol abuse in the family, self‐reported emotional problems and antisocial behaviour and high Internet use were all weakly and risky online behaviour strongly associated with online victimization.

Conclusions:  Danish adolescents are generally aware of the principles of ‘safe chatting’; however, online harassment is relatively frequent, but offline victimization based on Internet acquaintances is rare.
Bioenergy? Yes, we can! But at what cost? And what else?  Bioénergies ? Oui, nous avons la capacité! Mais à quel coût ? Et après?  Bioenergie? Na klar! Aber zu welchem Preis? Und was kommt als nächstes?
Authors: Burrell Alison
Published: December 2011

Bioenergy? Yes, we can! But at what cost? And what else?

Global energy demand is increasing, as is the environmental damage due to fossil fuel use. In this context bioenergy looks attractive. Waste biomass and crops with high energy yields that do not compete for prime cropland are more promising bioenergy feedstocks than food crops. Still, constrained land capacity relative to potential demands means that bioenergy can only be part of the solution. A more level playing field is needed for technologies that capture renewable energy more directly, particularly wind and solar voltaic power. Conventional arguments against these options – intermittent supply, high cost – are rapidly being overturned or are based on invalid cost accounting. A broader, more integrated approach is needed to energy policy, embracing all renewable energies that reduce GHG emissions without serious side‐effects and that have potential for longer‐term viability in a non‐distorted energy market, whilst also encouraging energy‐saving on the demand side. Governments should refrain from trying to pick renewable energy winners or creating new vested interests through unbalanced use of subsidies. Instead, they should promote the institutional and market conditions conducive to greener energy use, and should maximise their efforts to reach global consensus on emissions targets and reduction of fossil fuel subsidies.
Statistics: more than pictures
Authors: Scott M. , Flaherty D. , Currall J.
Published: December 2011

This, the third of our series of articles on statistics in veterinary medicine, moves onto the more complex concepts of hypothesis testing and confidence intervals. As these two areas are widely discussed in many clinical research publications, an awareness of the underlying methodology behind their use is essential to appreciate the information they convey.
Mineralogy and Mineral Chemistry of the Cretaceous Duolong Gold‐Rich Porphyry Copper Deposit in the Bangongco Arc, Northern Tibet
Authors: LI Jinxiang , LI Guangming , QIN Kezhang , XIAO Bo , CHEN Lei , ZHAO Junxing
Published: December 2011

The Early Cretaceous Duolong gold‐rich porphyry copper deposit is a newly discovered deposit with proven 5.38 Mt Cu resources of 0.72% Cu and 41 t gold of 0.23 g t−1 in northern Tibet. Granodiorite porphyry and quartz diorite porphyrite are the main ore‐bearing porphyries. A wide range of hydrothermal alteration associated with these porphyries is divided into potassic, argillic and propylitic zones from the ore‐bearing porphyry center outward and upward. In the hydrothermal alteration zones, secondary albite (91.5–99.7% Ab) occurs along the rim of plagioclase phenocryst and fissures. Secondary K‐feldspar (75.1–96.9% Or) replaces plagioclase phenocryst and matrix or occurs in veinlets. Biotite occurs mainly as matrix and veinlet in addition to phenocryst in the potassic zone. The biotite are Mg‐rich and formed under a highly oxidized condition at temperatures ranging from 400°C to 430°C. All the biotites are absent in F, and have high Cl content (0.19–0.26%), with log (XCl/XOH) values of −2.74 to −2.88 and IV (Cl) values of −3.48 to −3.35, suggesting a significant role of chloride complexes (CuCl2‐ and AuCl2‐) in transporting and precipitating copper and gold. Chlorites are present in all alteration zones and correspond mainly to pycnochlorite. They have similar Fe/(Fe+Mg), Mn/(Mn+Mg) ratios, and a formation temperature range of 280–360°C. However, the formation temperature of chlorite in the quartz‐gypsum‐carbonate‐chlorite vein is between 190°C and 220°C, indicating that it may have resulted from a later stage of hydrothermal activity. Fe3+/Fe2+ ratios of chlorites have negative correlation with AlIV, suggesting oxygen fugacity of fluids increases with decreasing temperature. Apatite mineral inclusions in the biotite phenocrysts show high SO3 content (0.44–0.82%) and high Cl content (1–1.37%), indicating the host magma had a high oxidation state and was enriched in S and Cl. The highest Cl content of apatite in the propylitic zone may have resulted from pressure decrease, and the lowest Cl content of apatite in the argillic zone may have been caused by a low Cl content in the fluids. The low concentration of SO3 content in the hydrothermal apatite compared to the magmatic one may have resulted from the decrease of oxygen fugacity and S content in the hydrothermal fluid, which are caused by the abundant precipitation of magnetite.