bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Control of glycerol biosynthesis under high salt stress in Arabidopsis
Authors: Bahieldin Ahmed , Sabir Jamal S. M. , Ramadan Ahmed , Alzohairy Ahmed M. , Younis Rania A. , Shokry Ahmed M. , Gadalla Nour O. , Edris Sherif , Hassan Sabah M. , Al-Kordy Magdy A. , Kamal Khalid B. H. , Rabah Samar , Abuzinadah Osama A. , El-Domyati Fotouh M.
Published: July 2013

Loss-of-function and gain-of-function approaches were utilised to detect the physiological importance of glycerol biosynthesis during salt stress and the role of glycerol in conferring salt tolerance in Arabidopsis. The salt stress experiment involved wild type (WT) and transgenic Arabidopsis overexpressing the yeast GPD1 gene (analogue of Arabidopsis GLY1 gene). The experiment also involved the Arabidopsis T-DNA insertion mutants gly1 (for suppression of glycerol 3-phosphate dehydrogenase or G3PDH), gli1 (for suppression of glycerol kinase or GK), and act1 (for suppression of G3P acyltransferase or GPAT). We evaluated salt tolerance levels, in conjunction with glycerol and glycerol 3-phosphate (G3P) levels and activities of six enzymes (G3PDH, ADH (alcohol dehydrogenase), ALDH (aldehyde dehydrogenase), GK, G3PP (G3P phosphatase) and GLYDH (glycerol dehydrogenase)) involved in the glycerol pathway. The GPD1 gene was used to overexpress G3PDH, a cytosolic NAD+-dependent key enzyme of cellular glycerol biosynthesis essential for growth of cells under abiotic stresses. T2 GPD1-transgenic plants and those of the two mutants gli1 and act1 showed enhanced salt tolerance during different growth stages as compared with the WT and gly1 mutant plants. These results indicate that the participation of glycerol, rather than G3P, in salt tolerance in Arabidopsis. The results also indicate that the gradual increase in glycerol levels in T2 GPD1-transgenic, and gli1 and act1 mutant plants as NaCl level increases whereas they dropped at 200 mM NaCl. However, the activities of the G3PDH, GK, G3PP and GLYDH at 150 and 200 mM NaCl were not significantly different. We hypothesise that mechanism(s) of glycerol retention/efflux in the cell are affected at 200 mM NaCl in Arabidopsis.
Single-particle analysis reveals shutoff control of the
Arabidopsis
ammonium transporter AMT1;3 by clustering and internalization
Authors: Wang Qinli , Zhao Yuanyuan , Luo Wangxi , Li Ruili , He Qihua , Fang Xiaohong , Michele Roberto De , Ast Cindy , von Wirén Nicolaus , Lin Jinxing
Published: July 2013

Ammonium is a preferred source of nitrogen for plants but is toxic at high levels. Plant ammonium transporters (AMTs) play an essential role in NH
4
+
uptake, but the mechanism by which AMTs are regulated remains unclear. To study how AMTs are regulated in the presence of ammonium, we used variable-angle total internal reflection fluorescence microscopy and fluorescence cross-correlation spectroscopy for single-particle fluorescence imaging of EGFP-tagged AMT1;3 on the plasma membrane of
Arabidopsis
root cells at various ammonium levels. We demonstrated that AMT1;3-EGFP dynamically appeared and disappeared on the plasma membrane as moving fluorescent spots in low oligomeric states under N-deprived and N-sufficient conditions. Under external high-ammonium stress, however, AMT1;3-EGFPs were found to amass into clusters, which were then internalized into the cytoplasm. A similar phenomenon also occurred in the glutamine synthetase mutant
gln1;2
background. Single-particle analysis of AMT1;3-EGFPs in the clathrin heavy chain 2 mutant (
chc2
mutant) and
Flotllin1
artificial microRNA (
Flot1 amiRNA
) backgrounds, together with chemical inhibitor treatments, demonstrated that the endocytosis of AMT1;3 clusters induced by high-ammonium stress could occur mainly through clathrin-mediated endocytic pathways, but the contribution of microdomain-associated endocytic pathway cannot be excluded in the internalization. Our results revealed that the clustering and endocytosis of AMT1;3 provides an effective mechanism by which plant cells can avoid accumulation of toxic levels of ammonium by eliminating active AMT1;3 from the plasma membrane.
Statistical significance of combinatorial regulations
Authors: Terada Aika , Okada-Hatakeyama Mariko , Tsuda Koji , Sese Jun
Published: July 2013

More than three transcription factors often work together to enable cells to respond to various signals. The detection of combinatorial regulation by multiple transcription factors, however, is not only computationally nontrivial but also extremely unlikely because of multiple testing correction. The exponential growth in the number of tests forces us to set a strict limit on the maximum arity. Here, we propose an efficient branch-and-bound algorithm called the “limitless arity multiple-testing procedure” (LAMP) to count the exact number of testable combinations and calibrate the Bonferroni factor to the smallest possible value. LAMP lists significant combinations without any limit, whereas the family-wise error rate is rigorously controlled under the threshold. In the human breast cancer transcriptome, LAMP discovered statistically significant combinations of as many as eight binding motifs. This method may contribute to uncover pathways regulated in a coordinated fashion and find hidden associations in heterogeneous data.
Monovalent antibody design and mechanism of action of onartuzumab, a MET antagonist with anti-tumor activity as a therapeutic agent
Authors: Merchant Mark , Ma Xiaolei , Maun Henry R. , Zheng Zhong , Peng Jing , Romero Mally , Huang Arthur , Yang Nai-ying , Nishimura Merry , Greve Joan , Santell Lydia , Zhang Yu-Wen , Su Yanli , Kaufman Dafna W. , Billeci Karen L. , Mai Elaine , Moffat Barbara , Lim Amy , Duenas Eileen T. , Phillips Heidi S. , Xiang Hong , Young Judy C. , Vande Woude George F. , Dennis Mark S. , Reilly Dorothea E. , Schwall Ralph H. , Starovasnik Melissa A. , Lazarus Robert A. , Yansura Daniel G.
Published: July 2013

Significance

Therapeutic antibodies have revolutionized the treatment of human disease. Despite these advances, antibody bivalency limits their utility against some targets. Here, we describe the development of a one-armed (monovalent) antibody, onartuzumab, targeting the receptor tyrosine kinase MET. While initial screening of bivalent antibodies produced agonists of MET, engineering them into monovalent antibodies produced antagonists instead. We explain the structural basis of the mechanism of action with the crystal structure of onartuzumab antigen-binding fragment in complex with MET and HGF-β. These discoveries have led to an additional antibody-based therapeutic option and shed light on the underpinnings of HGF/MET signaling.
Cost of rNTP/dNTP pool imbalance at the replication fork
Authors: Yao Nina Y. , Schroeder Jeremy W. , Yurieva Olga , Simmons Lyle A. , O’Donnell Mike E.
Published: July 2013

The concentration of ribonucleoside triphosphates (rNTPs) in cells is far greater than the concentration of deoxyribonucleoside triphosphates (dNTPs), and this pool imbalance presents a challenge for DNA polymerases (Pols) to select their proper substrate. This report examines the effect of nucleotide pool imbalance on the rate and fidelity of the
Escherichia coli
replisome. We find that rNTPs decrease replication fork rate by competing with dNTPs at the active site of the C-family Pol III replicase at a step that does not require correct base-pairing. The effect of rNTPs on Pol rate generalizes to B-family eukaryotic replicases, Pols δ and ε. Imbalance of the dNTP pool also slows the replisome and thus is not specific to rNTPs. We observe a measurable frequency of rNMP incorporation that predicts one rNTP incorporated every 2.3 kb during chromosome replication. Given the frequency of rNMP incorporation, the repair of rNMPs is likely rapid. RNase HII nicks DNA at single rNMP residues to initiate replacement with dNMP. Considering that rNMPs will mark the new strand, RNase HII may direct strand-specificity for mismatch repair (MMR). How the newly synthesized strand is recognized for MMR is uncertain in eukaryotes and most bacteria, which lack a methyl-directed nicking system. Here we demonstrate that
Bacillus subtilis
incorporates rNMPs in vivo, that RNase HII plays a role in their removal, and the RNase HII gene deletion enhances mutagenesis, suggesting a possible role of incorporated rNMPs in MMR.
Time for curriculum reform: the case of mathematics
Authors: Noyes Andrew , Wake Geoff , Drake Pat
Published: July 2013

Mathematics education is rarely out of the policy spotlight in England. Over the last 10 years, considerable attention has been given to improving 14–19 mathematics curriculum pathways. In this paper we consider some of the challenges of enacting curriculum change by drawing upon evidence from our evaluation of the Mathematics Pathways Project (MPP). From 2004 to 2010 this project, which was directed by England%s Qualifications and Curriculum Authority, aimed to improve the engagement, attainment and participation rates of 14‐ to 19‐year‐old learners of mathematics. Our particular focus is upon the temporal problems of piloting new curriculum and assessment and we draw on Lemke%s discussion of timescales, heterochrony and the adiabatic principle to consider the interlocking and interference of various change processes.
An analysis of the GCE A∗ grade
Authors: Acquah Daniel K.
Published: July 2013

The General Certificate of Education (GCE) A∗ grade was first awarded to students in 2010. It was introduced to assist higher education institutions in differentiating between the highest performing students and to promote and reward greater stretch and challenge. This paper, based on a synthesis of key policy documents, an analysis of quantitative data and a review of existing research, provides an analysis of the GCE A∗ grade. The paper begins by introducing the historical and political context that led to the introduction of the A∗ grade, drawing together policy documents and research carried out by the awarding bodies. The paper then presents an analysis of 2011 A‐level data, considering the characteristics of students who achieve the grade and addressing concerns around equality and fairness. A further line of evidence concerns public confidence in the new grade, especially in relation to whether it is fulfilling its purposes. The paper concludes by identifying a number of policy lessons for the future of the GCE A∗ grade. Forthcoming reforms to the A‐level will necessitate a reappraisal of the way A∗ is calculated: this paper will be a useful source of evidence with which to consider the issues.
The Politics of the Service Class
Authors: Flemmen Magne
Published: July 2013

Claims of the demise of class were in part fuelled by problems facing a class analysis of contemporary politics. Central to this was the emergence of the ‘new middle class’. Debates revolved around whether it would constitute a source of radicalism or conservatism. John Goldthorpe's concept of the service class has proven to be the most enduring contribution to these debates. The service class, Goldthorpe held, would constitute an essentially conservative element in contemporary society. Deviations from this expected conservatism were supposedly an intermittent, transitory phenomenon, devoid of structural basis. In this paper, I investigate the political attitudes of the Norwegian service class. Adhering to Clark and Lipset's insistence on the need for a more complex analysis of both class and politics, I take a multidimensional approach: political attitudes are seen within the two dimensions of economic and ‘post-materialist’ issues, and class divisions in terms of the two dimensions of volume and composition of capital, following Bourdieu. By applying Multiple Correspondence Analysis, I uncover a significant political heterogeneity with a structural basis in the different forms of capital, pace Goldthorpe. The fractions relying on cultural capital are markedly leftist, while their counterparts possessing economic capital constitute a right-wing. Also, service-class members with the most capital are more liberal than their counterparts with less overall capital. I argue that this points to the significance of a multidimensional concept of class, which in turn necessitates further work on how ‘Bourdieusian’ concepts can be synthesised with class analysis.
Skilled therapists' experiences of how they contributed to constructive change in difficult therapies: A qualitative study
Authors: Moltu Christian , Binder Per-Einar
Published: July 2013

Background: Psychotherapy is effective, but knowledge about how it produces change is insufficient. Researching how skilled therapists obtain change in naturalistic settings is recommended as a fruitful research strategy to advance this knowledge. Aims: We studied how skilled therapists from various affiliations experience their own contribution in specific therapies, and how they integrate therapeutic techniques. Method: We performed semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with 12 experienced therapists from various affiliations, and analysed transcripts with an explorative and reflexive systematic qualitative approach. Results: We report the overarching theme of maintaining double awareness to provide a relational space for growth, achieved through three concrete themes: (1) tailoring the therapeutic frame to relational struggles, (2) using embodied empathy, and (3) creating meaning from the perspective of a theoretical model. Themes are common across therapeutic modalities. Conclusions: We discuss how the themes offer a relational contextualisation that allows for a constructive understanding of the place of theory and technique in therapy.
The Role of Speech-Specific Properties of the Background in the Irrelevant Sound Effect
Authors: Viswanathan Navin , Dorsi Josh , George Stephanie
Published: July 2013

The irrelevant sound effect (ISE) is the finding that serial recall performance is impaired under complex auditory backgrounds such as speech as compared to white noise or silence. Several findings have demonstrated that ISE occurs with nonspeech backgrounds and that the changing-state complexity of the background stimuli is critical to ISE. In a pair of experiments, we investigate whether speech-like qualities of the irrelevant background have an effect beyond their changing-state complexity. We do so by using two kinds of transformations of speech with identical changing-state complexity: one kind that preserved speech-like information (sinewave speech and fully reversed sinewave speech) and others in which this information was distorted (two selectively reversed sinewave speech conditions). Our results indicate that even when changing-state complexity is held constant, sinewave speech conditions in which speech-like interformant relationships are disrupted, produce less ISE than those in which these relationships are preserved. This indicates that speech-like properties of the background are important beyond their changing-state complexity for ISE.
On the existence of extremal Type II ℤ_{2𝕜}-codes
Authors: Harada Masaaki , Miezaki Tsuyoshi
Published: July 2013

For lengths

8
8

,

16
16

, and

24
24

, it is known that there is an extremal Type II

Z

2
k

\mathbb {Z}_{2k}

-code for every positive integer

k
k

. In this paper, we show that there is an extremal Type II

Z

2
k

\mathbb {Z}_{2k}

-code of lengths

32
,
40
,
48
,
56

32,40,48,56

, and

64
64

for every positive integer

k
k

. For length

72
72

, it is also shown that there is an extremal Type II

Z

4
k

\mathbb {Z}_{4k}

-code for every positive integer

k
k

with

k
≥
2

k \ge 2

.
Could more than three million older people in England be at risk of alcohol-related harm? A cross-sectional analysis of proposed age-specific drinking limits
Authors: Knott Craig S. , Scholes Shaun , Shelton Nicola J.
Published: July 2013

Objective: to determine the impact of recently proposed age-specific alcohol consumption limits on the proportion and number of older people classified at risk of alcohol-related harm.

Design: nationally representative cross-sectional population data from the Health Survey for England (HSE).

Participants: adults with valid alcohol consumption data, comprising 14,718 participants from 2003 and 14,939 from 2008.

Main outcome measure: the prevalence of alcohol consumption in excess of existing and recently proposed consumption limits, plus associated population estimates.

Results: the number of individuals aged 65 or over and drinking in excess of daily recommended limits would have increased 2.5-fold to over 3 million in 2008 under age-specific recommendations proposed in a report from the Royal College of Psychiatrists, equating to an at-risk population 809,000 individuals greater than found within the 16–24 age group during the same year. Suggested revisions to existing binge drinking classifications would have defined almost 1,200,000 people aged 65 or over as hazardous consumers of alcohol in 2008—a 3.6-fold increase over existing definitions.

Conclusion: age-specific drinking recommendations proposed in the Royal College of Psychiatrists Report would increase the number of older drinkers classified as hazardous alcohol consumers to a level greater than found among young adults aged 16–24.
Spinach latent virus Infecting Tomato in Virginia, United States
Authors: Vargas-Asencio J. , McLane H. , Bush E. , Perry K. L.
Published: July 2013

Plants in a single field of commercial tomato (Solanum lycopersicum) of unidentified cultivars in Virginia in July, 2012, were observed showing stunting, leaf distortion, twisting and thickening, discoloration, and color streaking and ringspots on fruits. Serological tests were negative for Cucumber mosaic virus, Groundnut ringspot virus, Tomato spotted wilt virus, Tomato chlorotic spot virus, Impatiens necrotic spot virus, Tobacco mosaic virus, and Tomato bushy stunt virus (Agdia, Inc., Elkhart, IN). Using a membrane-based macroarray (3), hybridization was observed to 8 of 9 70-mer oligonucleotide probes of Spinach latent virus (SpLV; genus Ilarvirus, family Bromoviridae). To confirm the hybridization results, complementary DNA (cDNA) was synthesized using random hexamers and MMLV reverse transcriptase (Promega, Madison, WI), followed by PCR amplification using ilarvirus degenerate primers (4). Fragments of approximately 380 bp were amplified and directly sequenced (GenBank Accession KC_466090); a BLAST search showed a 99% identity to the SpLV RNA 2 reference genome (NC_003809). Primers for SpLV RNA1 (SpLVRNA1f-GGTGTCACCATGCAAACTGG, SpLVRNA1r-AGCTCTTCGTAATAGGCCTGC) and SpLV RNA3 (SpLVCPf-GAAGTCTTTCCCAGGTGAGCA, SpLVCPr-AGGTGGGCATATGGACTTGG) were designed and cDNA was amplified using the IQ supermix (Biorad, Hercules, CA) with thermocycling of 94°C for 4 min, 35× (94°C 45 s, 55°C 45 s, 72°C 45 s), and 72°C for 10 min. The resulting fragments of 538 bp for RNA1 (KC_466088) and 661 bp for RNA3 (KC_466089) showed 100% identity to reference genome sequences for SpLV (NC_003808 and NC_003810, respectively). To demonstrate virus transmissibility, Chenopodium quinoa plants were mechanically inoculated using tomato leaf material (same source described above) ground in 30 mM Na2HPO4 buffer, pH 7.0. Necrotic spots developed on the inoculated leaves 10 dpi. Younger, non-inoculated leaves showed yellow mottling and tested positive for SpLV by RT-PCR (two of two plants tested). The detection of SpLV is rarely reported, with only one record from the United States (2). Although SpLV is described as a latent virus, it has been found associated with tomato fruit symptoms in New Zealand (1). It is not known if the fruit ringspot and other symptoms on the Virginia samples were due to virus infection. Since SpLV is seed-transmissible and seed production takes place in different parts of the world, it has the potential to spread with germplasm and become more widespread in North America.

References: (1) B. S. M. Lebas et al. Plant Dis. 91:228, 2007. (2) H. Y. Liu and J. E. Duffus. Phytopathology 76:1087, 1986. (3) K. L. Perry and X. Lu. Phytopathology 100:S100, 2010. (4) M. Untiveros, et al. J. Virol. Methods 165:97, 2010.
Real-time characterization of the molecular epidemiology of an influenza pandemic
Authors: Hedge J. , Lycett S. J. , Rambaut A.
Published: July 2013

Early characterization of the epidemiology and evolution of a pandemic is essential for determining the most appropriate interventions. During the 2009 H1N1 influenza A pandemic, public databases facilitated widespread sharing of genetic sequence data from the outset. We use Bayesian phylogenetics to simulate real-time estimates of the evolutionary rate, date of emergence and intrinsic growth rate (
r
0
) of the pandemic from whole-genome sequences. We investigate the effects of temporal range of sampling and dataset size on the precision and accuracy of parameter estimation. Parameters can be accurately estimated as early as two months after the first reported case, from 100 genomes and the choice of growth model is important for accurate estimation of
r
0
. This demonstrates the utility of simple coalescent models to rapidly inform intervention strategies during a pandemic.
Developing ultraviolet illumination of gillnets as a method to reduce sea turtle bycatch
Authors: Wang John , Barkan Joel , Fisler Shara , Godinez-Reyes Carlos , Swimmer Yonat
Published: July 2013

Fisheries bycatch of marine animals has been linked to population declines of multiple species, including many sea turtles. Altering the visual cues associated with fishing gear may reduce sea turtle bycatch. We examined the effectiveness of illuminating gillnets with ultraviolet (UV) light-emitting diodes for reducing green sea turtle (
Chelonia mydas
) interactions. We found that the mean sea turtle capture rate was reduced by 39.7% in UV-illuminated nets compared with nets without illumination. In collaboration with commercial fishermen, we tested UV net illumination in a bottom-set gillnet fishery in Baja California, Mexico. We did not find any difference in overall target fish catch rate or market value between net types. These findings suggest that UV net illumination may have applications in coastal and pelagic gillnet fisheries to reduce sea turtle bycatch.
A new hero emerges: another exceptional mammalian spine and its potential adaptive significance
Authors: Stanley William T. , Robbins Lynn W. , Malekani Jean M. , Mbalitini Sylvestre Gambalemoke , Migurimu Dudu Akaibe , Mukinzi Jean Claude , Hulselmans Jan , Prévot Vanya , Verheyen Erik , Hutterer Rainer , Doty Jeffrey B. , Monroe Benjamin P. , Nakazawa Yoshinori J. , Braden Zachary , Carroll Darin , Kerbis Peterhans Julian C. , Bates John M. , Esselstyn Jacob A.
Published: July 2013

The hero shrew's (
Scutisorex somereni
) massive interlocking lumbar vertebrae represent the most extreme modification of the vertebral column known in mammals. No intermediate form of this remarkable morphology is known, nor is there any convincing theory to explain its functional significance. We document a new species in the heretofore monotypic genus
Scutisorex
; the new species possesses cranial and vertebral features representing intermediate character states between
S. somereni
and other shrews. Phylogenetic analyses of DNA sequences support a sister relationship between the new species and
S. somereni
. While the function of the unusual spine in
Scutisorex
is unknown, it gives these small animals incredible vertebral strength. Based on field observations, we hypothesize that the unique vertebral column is an adaptation allowing these shrews to lever heavy or compressive objects to access concentrated food resources inaccessible to other animals.
From mourning to scientific legacy: commemorating Lister in London and Scotland
Authors: Dupree Marguerite Wright
Published: July 2013

This paper examines the changing methods, underlying motives, clienteles and controversy surrounding posthumous commemorations of Lord Lister in Britain. The importance of the commemorations for professional identity formation continues throughout the twentieth century, but World War I appears as a turning point. The constituencies commemorating Lister change from broadly international, national and civic with an emphasis on fundraising, to more narrowly professional; the use of religious imagery is notable after the war in the debates in the 1920s; and as his students, so central to the creation and preservation of his image, die, the focus begins to shift from the man and his achievements, ‘the great benefactor of mankind’, to his legacy in the current state of subjects related to his work. The changing nature of the commemorations suggests that although Lister's precise position in the history of surgery is contentious today, his importance as an iconic figure in the history of the medical profession is secure.
Are there species smaller than 1 mm?
Authors: Rossberg Axel G. , Rogers Tim , McKane Alan J.
Published: July 2013

The rapid advance in genetic sequencing technologies has provided an unprecedented amount of data on the biodiversity of meiofauna. It was hoped that these data would allow the identification and counting of species, distinguished as tight clusters of similar genomes. Surprisingly, this appears not to be the case. Here, we begin a theoretical discussion of this phenomenon, drawing on an individual-based ecological model to inform our arguments. The determining factor in the emergence (or not) of distinguishable genetic clusters in the model is the product of population size with mutation rate—a measure of the adaptability of the population as a whole. This result suggests that indeed one should not expect to observe clearly distinguishable species groupings in data gathered from ultrasequencing of meiofauna.
Single-crystal diffraction at the Extreme Conditions beamline P02.2: procedure for collecting and analyzing high-pressure single-crystal data
Authors: Rothkirch André , Gatta G. Diego , Meyer Mathias , Merkel Sébastien , Merlini Marco , Liermann Hanns-Peter
Published: July 2013

Fast detectors employed at third-generation synchrotrons have reduced collection times significantly and require the optimization of commercial as well as customized software packages for data reduction and analysis. In this paper a procedure to collect, process and analyze single-crystal data sets collected at high pressure at the Extreme Conditions beamline (P02.2) at PETRA III, DESY, is presented. A new data image format called `Esperanto' is introduced that is supported by the commercial software packageCrysAlisPro(Agilent Technologies UK Ltd). The new format acts as a vehicle to transform the most common area-detector data formatsviaa translator software. Such a conversion tool has been developed and converts tiff data collected on a Perkin Elmer detector, as well as data collected on a MAR345/555, to be imported into theCrysAlisProsoftware. In order to demonstrate the validity of the new approach, a complete structure refinement of boron-mullite (Al5BO9) collected at a pressure of 19.4 (2) GPa is presented. Details pertaining to the data collections and refinements of B-mullite are presented.
Extreme drought alters competitive dominance within and between tree species in a mixed forest stand
Authors: Cavin Liam , Mountford Edward P. , Peterken George F. , Jump Alistair S.
Published: July 2013

The effect of extreme climate events on ecosystems is an important driver of biotic responses to climate change. For forests, extreme drought has been linked to negative effects such as large‐scale mortality and reduced primary production. However, the response of plant communities to extreme drought events remains poorly understood.

We used mortality data from a long‐term monitoring programme in the core of the focal species' ranges, in combination with annual growth data from tree‐rings, to study the effect of, and recovery from, an extreme drought event. We examined both the intraspecific and interspecific drought response and explored how differential responses affect competitive dominance between the dominant species Fagus sylvatica and Quercus petraea.

Mortality for the most drought‐susceptible species, F. sylvatica, occurred alongside a temporary reduction in competition‐induced mortality of Q. petraea, resulting in the long‐term alteration of the relative abundance of the two species.

Significant intraspecific variation occurred in post‐drought recovery in surviving F. sylvatica, with two distinct cohorts identified. A prolonged recovery period was coupled with the failure to regain pre‐drought growth levels in this species, whereas for Q. petraea, no severe drought impacts were observed. This species instead experienced competitive release of growth.

Our results demonstrate that ecosystem responses to extreme drought can involve rapid, nonlinear threshold processes during the recovery phase as well as the initial drought impact. These sudden changes can lead to the reordering of dominance between species within communities, which may persist if extreme events become more frequent.
Patterns and processes of alternative host use in a generalist parasite: insights from a natural host–parasite interaction
Authors: Lootvoet Amélie , Blanchet Simon , Gevrey Muriel , Buisson Laetitia , Tudesque Loïc , Loot Géraldine
Published: July 2013

Host specificity is a major, yet poorly understood, property of parasites. Generalist parasites generally exploit a principal host species and a series of alternative host species. Understanding patterns of alternative host use may help predict phylogenetic diversification of parasite lineages and the emergence of infectious diseases. However, the ecological and evolutionary determinants underpinning alternative host use remain elusive.

Here, we investigated, in the wild, patterns of alternative host use in a freshwater ectoparasite copepod (Tracheliastes polycolpus), and we tested several a priori hypotheses regarding determinants underlying these patterns. We specifically answer two related questions: (i) why do parasites use alternative host species? and (ii) why do parasites preferentially use one particular alternative host species rather than another?

We first showed that T. polycolpus was able to use five alternative host species in addition to its principal host species, the dace (Leuciscus burdigalensis). Using causal analyses, we demonstrated that, overall, the rate of alternative host use was higher when parasite burden on the principal host was higher, providing support for the ‘parasite density’ hypothesis. Then, phylogenetic regressions revealed that the specific use of these alternative host species does not occur randomly, but according to the ‘ecological similarity’ hypothesis: parasites preferentially use host species that are ecologically close to the principal host species, irrespective of the phylogenetic distance and of the alternative host density. The fitness of parasites on alternative host species was similar to that of parasites on the principal host species, except for the smallest body‐sized alternative host species for which parasite fitness was lower. Finally, using microsatellite markers, we demonstrated that this differential host use did not lead to genetically isolated parasite populations.

Our study suggests that encounter rate may be a key factor in predicting patterns of alternative host use and unravels intriguing questions about the contribution of phenotypic plasticity to the use of a large host spectrum by a generalist parasite.
A Review of Alcohol‐Impaired Driving: The Role of Blood Alcohol Concentration and Complexity of the Driving Task
Authors: Martin Teri L. , Solbeck Patricia A. M. , Mayers Daryl J. , Langille Robert M. , Buczek Yvona , Pelletier Marc R.
Published: July 2013

The operation of a motor vehicle requires the integrity of sensory, motor, and intellectual faculties. Impairment of these faculties following the consumption of alcohol has been studied extensively through laboratory, closed‐course and on‐road driving, and epidemiological studies. The scientific literature was reviewed critically, with a focus on low‐to‐moderate blood alcohol concentrations (BAC ≤ 0.100%), to identify the most reliable determinants of alcohol‐impaired driving. Variables such as age, gender, driving skill, and tolerance were shown to have limited impact on impairment. It was concluded the most relevant variables areBACand complexity of the driving task. The scientific literature provides a high degree of confidence to support the conclusion that aBACof 0.050% impairs faculties required in the operation of a motor vehicle. Whether impairment is apparent depends upon the complexity of the driving task, which applies to both study design and actual driving.
Destroying the Joint and Dying of Shame? A Geography of Revitalised Feminism in Social Media and Beyond
Authors: MCLEAN JESSICA , MAALSEN SOPHIA
Published: July 2013

Has feminist geography really lost all relevance? This paper examines what the revitalisation of interest in feminist thought and practice, especially in Australia, means for geography. We illuminate the trajectory of the feminist revitalisation in new media and beyond through developing a spatial analysis influenced by Rose and Fincher. Notions of paradoxical space and issue publics inform this reading of two pivotal moments in the feminist revitalisation: first, the creation of Destroy the Joint, a campaign launched and maintained in Facebook and Twitter spaces; and second, the Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard's speech against sexism and misogyny in Parliament in October 2012. Both these moments, coming from political and public spaces, received worldwide interest, and we critically examine the context and ramifications of these instances while situating the institutional processes surrounding them within the growing feminist revitalisation. In so doing, we argue that these Australian‐based cases indicate a growing feminist movement that is open and multiply focused, connecting personal politics to public campaigning, and achieving material impacts. We conclude that developing a feminist geography of new media is a challenging task, as these spaces circumvent and renegotiate traditional spatial dimensions – including scale and place – through their dynamic networks. It is, nevertheless, a task worth doing.
Oral manifestations of secondary syphilis in the elderly – a timely reminder for dentists
Authors: Minicucci EM , Vieira RA , Oliveira DT , Marques SA
Published: July 2013

Syphilis is a sexually transmitted infectious disease caused by Treponema pallidum. Cases of syphilis have increased in frequency and are challenging when affecting the elderly. The main causes of increased prevalence of syphilis are sexual promiscuity, lack of knowledge about the disease and decreasing use of barrier protection. Clinically, the oral manifestation of syphilis may resemble other entities, which hampers the correct diagnosis. We report a case of a 79‐year‐old male with weight loss and feeding difficulties. In the oral cavity there were ulcerative lesions in the hard palate and bilaterally in the buccal mucosa. The incisional biopsy revealed only a non‐specific ulceration of the oral mucosa. After 20 days, the patient was re‐evaluated and presented maculopapular lesions in the palmar and plantar areas. Positive serological venereal disease reference laboratory (VDRL) tests confirmed the diagnosis of secondary syphilis. The patient was treated with Benzathine penicillin G. After two weeks of treatment the oral lesion disappeared and the patient returned to normal feeding and gained weight. This case report reinforces the need to alert physicians and dentists to include sexually transmitted infections such as syphilis in the differential diagnosis of oral ulcerative lesions in elderly sexually active patients.
Undermining game fences: who is digging holes in Kalahari sands?
Authors: Kesch Kristina M. , Bauer Dominik T. , Loveridge Andrew J.
Published: July 2013

The effectiveness of game fencing as a tool to promote coexistence between humans and wildlife is highly dependent on the maintenance of fences. It is vital to identify animal species, which dig holes under fences, and their digging behaviour to maintain game fences appropriately. We provide data on some of southern Africa's major hole‐digging animal species for a simple albeit effective method enabling stakeholders to categorize species that are digging holes underneath game fences in deep sand habitats by species‐specific knowledge on sizes and shapes of holes. Using Botswana's Khutse Game Reserve/Central Kalahari Game Reserve fence as an example, we highlight the temporal aspect in the process of hole digging and enlargement. We present a method to determine the pressure a fence experiences by a number of hole‐digging species. Furthermore, we provide data on the time frame of necessary maintenance actions, required to prevent large predators from transgressing this specific fence line. We were especially interested in the effectiveness of fences in excluding African lions from human‐dominated areas. The predators proved to be very difficult to fence in and extremely opportunistic. They mostly utilized holes that were initially excavated by other, even very small species.
Value of Electro‐Vectorcardiogram in Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Pérez‐Riera Andrés Ricardo , de Lucca Augusto Armando , Barbosa‐Barros Raimundo , Yanowitz Frank G. , de Cano Silvia Fortunato , Cano Manuel Nicolás , Palandri‐Chagas Antônio Carlos
Published: July 2013

The electrocardiogram is an important tool for the initial diagnostic suspicion of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy in any of its forms, both in symptomatic and in asymptomatic patients because it is altered in more than 90 percent of the cases. Electrocardiographic anomalies are more common in patients carriers of manifest hypertrophic cardiomyopathy and the electrocardiogram alterations are earlier and more sensitive than the increase in left ventricular wall thickness detected by the echocardiogram. Nevertheless, despite being the leading cause of sudden death among young competitive athletes there is no consensus over the need to include the method in the pre‐participation screening. In apical hypertrophic cardiomyopathy the electrocardiographic hallmarks are the giant negative T waves in anterior precordial leads. In the vectorcardiogram, the QRS loop is located predominantly in the left anterior quadrant and T loop in the opposite right posterior quadrant, which justifies the deeply negative T waves recorded. The method allows estimating the left ventricular mass because it relates to the maximal spatial vector voltage of the left ventricle in the QRS loop. The recording on electrocardiogram or Holter monitoring of nonsustained monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in patients with syncope, recurrent syncope in young patient, hypotension induced by strain, bradyarrhythmia, or concealed conduction are markers of poor prognosis. The presence of rare sustained ventricular tachycardia is observed in mid‐septal obstructive HCM with apical aneurysm. The presence of complete right bundle branch block pattern is frequent after the percutaneous treatment and complete left bundle branch block is the rule after myectomy.
Modulation of ENaC, CFTR, and iNOS expression in bronchial epithelial cells after stimulation with Staphylococcus epidermidis (94B080) and Staphylococcus aureus (90B083)
Authors: Hussain Rashida , Oliynyk Igor , Roomans Godfried M. , Björkqvist Maria
Published: July 2013

Bacteria affect the respiratory epithelium, which is covered by airway surface liquid (ASL) and mucus. Ion concentrations in the ASL are determined by the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) and the epithelial Na+ channel (ENaC). Neonatal sepsis is a major risk factor for subsequent pulmonary disease in preterm newborns. Predominating are coagulase‐negative staphylococci (e.g., Staphylococccus epidermidis and Staphylococccus aureus). The aim of this study was to investigate modulation of CFTR, ENaC, mucins, proinflammatory cytokines, and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) in respiratory epithelial cells after S. epidermidis 94B080 and S. aureus 90B083 exposure. Bronchial epithelial cells were incubated with S. epidermidis 94B080 and S. aureus 90B083 (neonatal blood isolates) for 1–36 h. Expression of CFTR, ENaC, iNOS, and mucins was analyzed by real‐time PCR and Western blotting. Release of cytokines was analyzed by ELISA, and production of NO by the Griess assay. Expression of CFTR significantly decreased after 36 h incubation with S. epidermidis and more prominently with S. aureus, whereas S. epidermidis caused a significant increase in the expression of β‐ and γ‐ENaC. Expression of iNOS increased, but NO was not detected. Both staphylococci caused a decrease in the intracellular Ca2+ concentration. S. aureus induced increased secretion of IL‐6, IL‐8, and transforming nuclear factor (TNF)‐α in a time‐dependent manner as compared with S. epidermidis. In conclusion, expression of ENaC, CFTR, and iNOS is modulated by exposure to S. aureus 90B083 and S. epidermidis 94B080. S. aureus is more potent in causing release of IL‐6, IL‐8, and TNF‐α by bronchial epithelial cells as compared with S. epidermidis. The mRNA expression for the mucus proteins MUC2, MUC5AC, and MUC5B could not be measured, neither in the presence nor in the absence of bacteria.
Laparoscopic management of giant splenic true cyst with partial splenectomy: A case report
Authors: Iimuro Yuji , Okada Toshihiro , Sueoka Hideaki , Hai Seikan , Kondo Yuichi , Suzumura Kazuhiro , Fujimoto Jiro
Published: July 2013

Non‐parasitic splenic cysts are relatively rare, and the optimal surgical treatment for them remains controversial. Laparoscopic unroofing is a relatively safe and easy technique, but a significant number of recurrences has been reported. Thus, complete cystectomy with partial splenectomy is recommended by several surgeons. However, patients sometimes suffer from intraoperative bleeding. Here, we report a patient with a giant non‐parasitic splenic cyst who underwent subtotal cystectomy with partial splenectomy. After the dissection of the vessels circulating the upper pole at the splenic hilum, the resection line of the splenic parenchyma was on the ischemic side of the cyanotic demarcation line. A vessel sealing system and laparoscopic coagulation shears were used for the resection. We intentionally left about 10% of the cyst wall to avoid bleeding from the non‐ischemic splenic parenchyma and remaining vessels. No recurrence has been detected after 6 months of observation. We believe this method could be a useful alternative procedure for the treatment of non‐parasitic splenic cysts and preservation of the splenic parenchyma.
Laparoscopic management of Spigelian hernias
Authors: Rath Alok , Bhatia Parveen , Kalhan Sudhir , John Suviraj , Khetan Mukund , Bindal Vivek , Ali Asfar , Singh Rahul , Wadhera Sushant , Bansal Nikunj
Published: July 2013

Spigelian hernias, also known as spontaneous lateral ventral hernias, are rare primary ventral hernias arising in the Spigelian, or semilunar, line located at the lateral border of recti. Because of its varied presentation, clinical examination is often inconclusive. Traditional repair of such hernias use the open approach. Herein we report on three cases of Spigelian hernias. All were diagnosed and treated laparoscopically at our institution between March 2011 and June 2012. Multiple surgeons performed the repairs using the laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal technique of mesh reinforcement and reperitonization. There were no perioperative or postoperative complications. All three were discharged 1 day postoperatively. A complete resolution of preoperative symptoms was observed at follow‐up at 1 week, 1 month and 6 months. Laparoscopic transabdominal preperitoneal repair of Spigelian hernia is safe, easy, and feasible for experienced laparoscopic surgeons.
Significant Factors in The Development of Elective Mutism: A Single Case Study of a 5 Year‐Old Girl
Authors: Vasilyeva Nina
Published: July 2013

A constellation of processes found to be characteristic in the aetiology of elective mutism is explored through clinical material from the psychotherapy of a 5 year‐old girl. The major factors significant in this process are excessive ties to the mother that hinder the child's social–emotional development; difficulties in discharging aggression in a situation when it is not possible to feel separate from mother; primitive ways of dealing with aggressive feelings based on phantasy and omnipotence; and – in my own experience – the symbolic equation of anus and mouth, at the developmental phase of mastery of both speech and sphincter control, as a cause of withholding words.
Goal setting in recovery: families where a parent has a mental illness or a dual diagnosis
Authors: Maybery Darryl , Reupert Andrea , Goodyear Melinda
Published: July 2013

Goal setting is an important element within mental health recovery models; however, parenting and children are rarely recognized in such approaches. This study outlines a family recovery planning model where a parent has a mental health or dual substance and mental health problem. The differences between family types (parent with a mental illness or parent with dual diagnosis) and family members (parent and children) are illustrated in terms of goals across 11 domains. There were a total of 33 parents and 50 children from 10 mental illness and 10 dual diagnosis families. Education and specifically mental health knowledge are important goals across all families and appear especially important for children whose parent has a dual diagnosis. Specific goals and achievement levels for each type of family and parents and children are also outlined. Clear areas for action by clinicians and family members are indicated by this study.
Spherical Fibonacci Point Sets for Illumination Integrals
Authors: Marques R. , Bouville C. , Ribardière M. , Santos L. P. , Bouatouch K.
Published: July 2013

Quasi‐Monte Carlo (QMC) methods exhibit a faster convergence rate than that of classic Monte Carlo methods. This feature has made QMC prevalent in image synthesis, where it is frequently used for approximating the value of spherical integrals (e.g. illumination integral). The common approach for generating QMC sampling patterns for spherical integration is to resort to unit square low‐discrepancy sequences and map them to the hemisphere. However such an approach is suboptimal as these sequences do not account for the spherical topology and their discrepancy properties on the unit square are impaired by the spherical projection. In this paper we present a strategy for producing high‐quality QMC sampling patterns for spherical integration by resorting to spherical Fibonacci point sets. We show that these patterns, when applied to illumination integrals, are very simple to generate and consistently outperform existing approaches, both in terms of root mean square error (RMSE) and image quality. Furthermore, only a single pattern is required to produce an image, thanks to a scrambling scheme performed directly in the spherical domain.