bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expert elicitation as a method for exploring illegal harvest and trade of wild meat over large spatial scales
Authors: Swan Natalie , Barlow Jos , Parry Luke
Published: February 2016

New evidence of commercialization and consumption of wild meat in Amazonian cities has exposed an alarming yet poorly understood threat to Neotropical biodiversity. In response to the limitations of field sampling for large-scale surveys, we sought to develop a method of rapidly assessing wildlife harvest and trade in multiple areas using expert knowledge. Using caiman as a model taxon, we surveyed experts across the Brazilian Amazon. Expert responses to a Likert-style questionnaire suggest that caiman hunting, generally considered a localized rural activity, is in fact common and geographically widespread. Contrary to previous assumptions we found evidence that urban demand is partly driving the harvest, including via interstate trafficking. We highlight the need for further field validation of wild-meat trade and urban consumption patterns in Amazonia. We conclude that expert elicitation is a simple, cost-effective technique that can be a valuable precursor to inform and direct applied conservation research, especially where there are significant knowledge gaps and at large spatial scales.
The impact of input quality on early sign development in native and non-native language learners
Authors: LU JENNY , JONES ANNA , MORGAN GARY
Published: February 2016

There is debate about how input variation influences child language. Most deaf children are exposed to a sign language from their non-fluent hearing parents and experience a delay in exposure to accessible language. A small number of children receive language input from their deaf parents who are fluent signers. Thus it is possible to document the impact of quality of input on early sign acquisition. The current study explores the outcomes of differential input in two groups of children aged two to five years: deaf children of hearing parents (DCHP) and deaf children of deaf parents (DCDP). Analysis of child sign language revealed DCDP had a more developed vocabulary and more phonological handshape types compared with DCHP. In naturalistic conversations deaf parents used more sign tokens and more phonological types than hearing parents. Results are discussed in terms of the effects of early input on subsequent language abilities.
Social Acceptance of Physically Handicapped Children Integrated into Regular Primary Schools
Authors: Allen Robin , Wilton Keri , Ballard Keith
Published: February 2016

The social acceptance (by nonhandicapped children) of four former pupils of a special school for physically handicapped children was examined. The pupils had previously (18 months prior to the study) been transferred to regular primary and intermediate schools as part of an integration (mainstreaming) programme. The physically handicapped children and their nonhandicapped classmates showed very similar patterns of social interaction during unsupervised playground activities, and similar levels of social acceptance (sociometric data and teachers’ ratings). Case study data indicated that all physically handicapped children had apparently made a successful adaptation to the physical, academic, and social demands of the regular school, but considerable variation was evident both in the social difficulties encountered by the children during the integration period and in their current (and future) special educational needs.
Special Education Centres of Interest: Pallister Young People’s Unit and Special School
Authors: Huggins Allan
Published: February 2016

Pallister Young People’s Unit is an adolescent treatment and special education unit attached to Greenwich Hospital, Greenwich, New South Wales.

The Unit, originally a girl’s home, changed its terms of reference in early 1977 to incorporate and develop a professionally orientated treatment and education programme so that it could more effectively meet the needs of many adolescents, both boys and girls, experiencing socio-emotional disturbance.

The Unit is housed in a rather beautiful building built in 1892 and overlooks the upper reaches of the harbour. Although not purpose built, Pallister retains the atmosphere of a family home. This aspect of the Unit the professional staff are eager to maintain because, although they see the Unit as a special service delivery, it is also a therapeutic community where young people can experience emotional growth, through community living.
Special Education for all Educators are we Ready?
Authors: Irvine Jim
Published: February 2016

Educators currently in senior positions in our public education and training institutions experienced school as children in a New Zealand society very different from 1987. In theirprofessional careers, they have witnessed some staggering changes to which they have had to adjust.
Striving for Excellence in Special Education Policy in New Zealand and Australia
Authors: Wilton Keri
Published: February 2016

Throughout the world, special education has always been substantially concerned with “striving for excellence”, in the sense that what has been sought and striven for by special educators are specific programs and policies which effectively meet the special educational needs of particular children and adults who are not adequately served by the programs and policies generally available. The term “striving” has two related meanings and both seem apt in the present context. First, an examination of the history of special education reveals that appropriate special education policies and programs are seldom, if ever, achieved unless those seeking them on behalf of exceptional learners have the commitment, determination, and fortitude to strive - in the sense of “fight” - often against very considerable opposition, to achieve what is required. The second meaning of “strive” - to make a great and tenacious effort, also epitomizes the work of those who have sought and still seek appropriate special educational programs and policies.
Enhancing Spelling Performance of Students with Mental Retardation: Comparative Effects of Three Remediation Procedures
Authors: Anderson Vicky M. , Singh Nirbhay N. , Moe Theresa L. , Landrum Timothy J.
Published: February 2016

We examined the comparative effects of three specialized remediation procedures on the spelling accuracy of students with moderate mental retardation. In the first experiment, we compared directed rehearsal and imitation training against a no-training control condition, in an alternating treatments design. Both procedures were more effective than a no-training control condition, and imitation training was marginally more effective than directed rehearsal. In the second experiment, we investigated further the effectiveness of imitation training by comparing its effects against interspersal training and a no-training control condition in an alternating treatments design. Although both procedures were more effective than no training, there was little difference between the two procedures, in terms of the students’ rate of learning new words. This study showed that these three specialized remediation procedures can be used to increase the spelling proficiency of students with moderate mental retardation.
Psycholinguistics Vs Phonemics: Can These Approaches Be Reconciled?
Authors: Hall Judith , King Ron
Published: February 2016

Much of the international debate about reading and the acquisition of literacy skills has divided into support for psycholinguistic or phonemic approaches. Proponents of each have argued with evangelistic fervour.

More recently some researchers are suggesting an interactive model, which includes elements of both psycholinguistic and phonemic approaches. However, while recognising the need for cognitive strategies, the interactive model still fails to utilise fully the vast wealth of knowledge available from over two decades of cognitive research, and in particular, research into cognitive strategy training.

This article suggest that there is no one reading model to suit all learners, but that a reading program must consider the unique needs of each individual learner, and cater for the student by applying knowledge gained from a variety of relevant areas of research.
Diagnosis and treatment of children with attention deficit disorder: A close look at clinical practice
Authors: Lewin Gill , Fletcher Janet
Published: February 2016

Clinic procedures are frequently justified on the basis of research studies, yet clients and procedures may be sufficiently different to make generalisation of findings a dubious proposition. For this reason the staff of a major children’s clinic chose to review both process and outcome in the diagnosis and treatment of children referred with suspected attention deficit disorder. Children were diagnosed as having attention deficit disorder with or without hyperactivity. However, the diagnostic groups could be differentiated on too few pre-treatment variables to be considered different populations. In addition, the treatment offered did not differentiate between children with different diagnoses. Evaluation of treatment at 4 mths showed limited improvement in children who were treated with methylphenidate (Ritalin). At 12 mths no improvements were evident that could be directly attributed to treatment. The study points out the importance of individual clinics monitoring the processes of diagnosis and treatment of children referred with suspected attention deficit disorder and emphasises the need for referring agents and clinic personnel to maintain effective communication.
Using the Telephone in the delivery of early intervention programs in Rural Victoria
Authors: Moore Renae L. , Sargood Stana H.
Published: February 2016

Families living in rural areas who have a young child with a developmental disability often face difficulties in accessing early intervention services due to geographical isolation and restricted options to specialist services. Lack of services has been reported in a number of surveys of early intervention programs across Australia (Watt, Elkins, Conrad, Andrews, Apelt, Hayes, Calder, Coulston, & Willis, 1982; Barrie & Tomlinson, 1985). Watt et al found only five programs operating in rural areas with populations of 10,000 or less across Australia with a further 15 in towns of 10,000 to 30,000. Hayes and Livingstone (1986) found only rudimentary services in country areas often necessitating the placement of child in an urban facility to receive services.
Educational Service Provision for Students with Mild Intellectual Disability: Teachers, Schools, Integration and Resources
Authors: Foreman Phil , Dempsey Ian , Robinson Greg , Conway Robert
Published: February 2016

This paper reports the results of part of a three stage examination of services to students with mild intellectual disability in two educational regions of New South Wales. The purpose of the study was to obtain a comprehensive picture of the educational services being provided to these students. The stages in the study included a questionnaire completed by 68 teachers, an interview administered to a sub-sample of 27 teachers, and observations in seven classrooms. The results of the study reported in this paper relate to characteristics of the teachers and school and classroom variables, the nature of integration occurring in these settings, and the resources accessed and needed by these teachers. The study found that the average class size was 13.3 children; boys out-numbered girls by 1.66:1; fewer than half of the children also participated in an integration program; about half of the teachers had been trained in special education; and most teachers would have preferred more support services than they were receiving.
The Effects of Using a Writer in Examinations on Senior Students With and Without Learning Disabilities
Authors: Whiting Paul
Published: February 2016

Provision of a writer for students with learning disabilities in examinations is still controversial among some academics and teachers. This is partly due to a lack of empirical research demonstrating the effects of such provisions on the performance of the student with learning disabilities compared to that of the student without learning disabilities. This study addressed the question of equity in the granting of such a provision, by reviewing the literature on the factors relevant to the written compositions of students with learning disabilities. An exploratory study of the examination scripts of students with learning disabilities and students without learning disabilities was conducted. The scripts were produced with and without the provision of a writer. The study revealed that while students with learning disabilities performed considerably better when using a writer, students without learning disabilities appeared to perform worse. A follow-up questionnaire explored some possible reasons for this pattern of performance. The paper concludes that, while there are still unresolved problems surrounding the use of a writer, such a provision for students with learning disabilities may not put students without learning disabilities at a comparative disadvantage, and so may be accepted as equitable. Further research is suggested.
Developing a screening instrument for teacher referral of students with special needs to therapy services
Authors: Llewellyn Gwynnyth , McConnell David , Bailey Mike
Published: February 2016

Development of a screening instrument (the SRT) for teacher referral of students with special needs to therapy services is reported in this paper. Stage 1 was reported in Llewellyn & Maher (1993). In Stages 2 and 3, the instrument was trialed and subsequently refined with over 200 teachers and 60 therapists in NSW Schools for Specific Purposes and Support Classes. Multiple discriminant analysis was used to determine those items relevant to referral to therapy. The final version of the instrument contains 19 items. The instrument is suitable for determining individual student need for referral to occupational therapy, physiotherapy and speech pathology for students with intellectual and/ or physical disability. The instrument can also be used for determining the extent and distribution of student need for therapy at classroom, school, regional or State levels.
Teachers and students without disabilities comment on the placement of students with special needs in regular classrooms at an Australian primary school
Authors: Wright Susan L. , Sigafoos Jeff
Published: February 2016

The present study surveyed teachers and students without disabilities regarding the inclusion of students with disabilities at an Australian primary school. The school provided special education to 35 students with special needs and some of their education was provided in regular classrooms alongside peers without disabilities. Fifteen regular classroom teachers and 109 classroom peers without special needs completed questionnaires. Both groups provided a range of supportive comments about regular classroom placements for student with special needs, but also expressed concerns about the implementation of special education in regular classrooms. Specific concerns included the extra time and added stress of educating children with special needs in the regular classroom setting, potential disruption and disadvantage to other students and the lack of support and resources. Unless these concerns are addressed, placement of students with special needs in regular classrooms may generate stress, concern, and even possibly resentment among some teachers and students without disabilities.
The integration of children with behaviour disorders: A longitudinal study
Authors: Bradshaw Keith
Published: February 2016

Children with behaviour disorders have long been regarded as the most difficult group of children with special needs to integrate into the regular classroom. Despite the difficulty Government policy continues to advocate integration for all children with special needs. The present study examines the placement of children with behaviour disorders in regular schools one and two years after an initial study on their integration was undertaken. The results indicate that many of these children are no longer at the surveyed school. The results would suggest that the regular classroom/school may not be the optimal learning environment for all children with behaviour disorders.
A Model for Effective Classroom Discourse: Predicated Topics with Reduced Verbal Memory Demands
Authors: Blank Marion , White Sheila J.
Published: February 2016

School failure often stems from a mismatch between the language used by children and the language used in schools. Central to the mismatch is the fact that schools use “extended texts” (i.e., long stretches of language that expound a topic). Extended texts impose major and unique language processing demands that are unfamiliar to many children. At the same time, these texts cannot be abandoned since they are central to the school’s educational mission. However, it is possible to modify the form they have commonly taken. This form, developed to meet the constraints of a prior time, is marked by dual disadvantages: a) it emphasizes memory for details, a skill that is problematic in many language disabled students and b) it is based upon “isolated” decontextualized concepts that do not support coherent discussion. This paper offers an alternative model for classroom text which involves the use of a) memory aids (i.e., materials to reduce the need for recall of verbal details) and b) “predicated topics,” (i.e., patterns for structuring conceptual information in a predictable and relevant manner).
Assessing Prelinguistic Communication in Children with Developmental Delay: Effects of Contextual Structure
Authors: Bortoli Anna , Brown P. Margaret
Published: February 2016

This study compared the prelinguistic communicative behaviors of a boy with developmental delay (aged three years and three months) during structured and low structured interactions with his teacher. Using a videotaped analysis procedure developed by Tait and Wood (1987) four variables (eye contact to the speaker, eye contact to the referent, initiation and turntaking) were investigated. The analysis showed that, in the low structured condition, there was a greater degree of engagement, as measured by increased eye contact overall. More particularly, in this condition there was a greater percentage of eye contact to the referent. In addition to this, the participant took a greater percentage of the conversational turns offered to him by the adult in the low structured condition, although there was no difference between the types of turns taken (vocal, gestural and eye contact). The implications of these results for assessment and intervention are discussed.
A Comparison of Two Quick Methods for Identifying Low-progress Readers: Teacher Judgment Versus Curriculum-based Measurement
Authors: Madelaine Alison , Wheldall Kevin
Published: February 2016

Teacher judgment (TJ) is frequently employed as the basis for selecting students in need of specialist help in reading. Two studies are presented in which TJ is compared with a quick alternative deriving from curriculum-based measurement (CBM) that has been shown to be both highly reliable and valid. In the first study, 32 teachers of year two to year six classes were required to categorise their students into the top 25%, middle 50% and bottom 25% for reading performance. Compared with categorisation based on the more objective CBM measure, the mean accuracy of TJ was 67%, varying between 29% and 100%. In the second study, 24 teachers of year one to year five classes were required to categorise ten randomly selected students from their classes into the top three, middle four and bottom three for reading performance. Similar results were obtained with mean accuracy of TJ at 65%, varying between 20% and 100%. Taken together, the findings of the two studies suggest that reliance on TJ for instructional decision-making may be misplaced and that a more objective, quick alternative based on CBM may be preferable.
Secondary School Support Teachers’ Perception of Speech-language Pathology Services to Adolescents
Authors: Hollands Karen , McMahon Sandra , van Kraayenord Christina E.
Published: February 2016

A survey was conducted to investigate secondary school support teachers’ perceptions of speech-language pathology services to students experiencing language difficulties. Information was sought regarding support teachers’ understanding of language disorder, their experience with students who have language difficulties and their involvement with speech-language pathologists with regard to these students. Support teachers’ views on supporting adolescents who are experiencing language difficulties were also sought as well as information regarding their satisfaction with speech-language pathology services to adolescents. Findings indicated variations in support teachers’ perceptions, including mixed views regarding how speech-language pathologists should offer assistance to students. The need for support teachers and speech-language pathologists to offer each other professional training was indicated.
When all is Said and Done, More is Said than Done: Research Examining Constructivist Instruction for Students with Special Needs
Authors: Apps Mark , Carter Mark
Published: February 2016

Constructivist literature has become increasingly prominent in the area of special education. The nature of constructivism and its relevance and limitations for students with special needs is discussed, as is the importance of appropriate research in determining the efficacy of instructional interventions. A search of the literature into the efficacy of constructivism for students with special needs in K-12 settings revealed a predominance of descriptive and discussion-based research and very limited experimental research. The limited existing experimental research indicates that constructivist instructional approaches may have circumscribed applications in special education. Specifically, they may be appropriate to applications for students with learning difficulties in areas such as science education. Nevertheless, there are major methodological and interpretative problems that undermine confidence in the existing body of research. These problems include an absence of adequate procedural reliability data, interventions that often involve teaching single or very small groups of students, and conditions that do not approximate regular classrooms. There is also evidence suggesting that constructivist approaches may be inappropriate and ineffective for students with intellectual disabilities. The need for considerable caution and extensive further research in this area is evident, in light of the ready adoption of constructivism in schools and the increase of constructivist literature.
Effects of Attendance at a New Zealand Residential School for Students with Emotional-behavioural Difficulties: The Views of Former Students and their Parents
Authors: Townsend Michael , Wilton Keri
Published: February 2016

Former students (34) of a residential school for students with emotional-behavioural difficulties, and their parents, were interviewed to determine their perceptions about the educational and social adjustment of the students. Following reintegration into mainstream schools, or work, the majority of the former students were reported as coping at least adequately with the social and academic demands of their lives. Both former students and their parents held positive perceptions regarding the students’ special school experience, and in general believed that the students’ attendance at the special school had facilitated their subsequent development and adjustment. The results are discussed in terms of the need for this first study in New Zealand to be supplemented by further research to validate the beliefs of former students and their parents, and some of the major attendant methodological problems which confront research in this area.
“There’s No Other Way to Describe it”: Images of Disability and Challenging Behaviour on a Current Affair
Authors: Symonds Gwyn
Published: February 2016

This paper is written primarily as a call to those of us in the special education field in Australia to become more actively involved in responding to the popular culture construction of disability as it takes place in the mainstream media. It is not the aim to define the form such activism should take but rather to raise awareness of the issue for further discussion. It is argued that Australian special educators and researchers are currently passive in relation to our negative media representations of disability with little to be found in local research literature that shows a specific interest in the issue. It is proposed that the television news show,A Current Affair, which airs daily during the week on the Nine Network in Australia, at 6.30 p.m. following the six o’clock news, offers an illustrative example of social and cultural construction that unwittingly contributes to stereotypes about young people with challenging behaviours and disability. Such stereotyping can be laid bare by critique as a means of countering the impact of such uninformed, and often sensationalised, media images.
Inclusive Education Reform: Implications for Teacher Aides
Authors: Bourke Patricia , Carrington Suzanne
Published: February 2016

In Queensland, inclusive education reform is on the political agenda, following the report of the Ministerial Taskforce on Inclusive Education (students with disabilities) in 2004. The Government’s responses to the initiatives outlined in the taskforce report emphasise a commitment to social justice and equity so that all students can be included in ways that enable them to achieve their potential. This commitment will be pursued by building an environment of consultation and collaboration with all stakeholders to improve the educational outcomes of students with disabilities, by reforming enrolment processes, and by enhancing professional development of current and future teaching staff. What does this vision for inclusive education reform mean for the position of the teacher aides who support students with disabilities (previously integration teacher aides)? Are they recognised as stakeholders within the reform process? How will they be consulted about reform?
Trends in the Placement of Students in Segregated Settings in NSW Government Schools
Authors: Dempsey Ian
Published: February 2016

This brief report describes recent data on the enrolment of students in New South Wales (NSW) government special schools and special classes. There has been an increase in both special school and special class enrolments since 1998 with large increases among students with emotional disturbance. This pattern is briefly discussed in relation to government policy and legislation, social and political factors as well as the notion that there may be a threshold for the extent of inclusion of students with special needs in NSW government schools.
The Impending Special Education Qualifications Crisis in Victoria
Authors: Thomas Tony
Published: February 2016

Given concern about the decreasing numbers of staff with qualifications in special education in Victorian government specialist schools (schools for students with special educational needs), a survey was distributed to all 81 of these schools to gather information about teacher qualifications and age. A very high response rate of 94% was obtained. The results showed a very wide range of numbers of staff possessing a special education qualification in different schools. It is of concern that in 15 schools (almost 20% of respondent schools) fewer than half the staff had special education qualifications, while in a further 33 schools (43%) between 50% and 79% of the staff had special education qualifications. To add to this concern, there was a large proportion of older teachers in the schools, with 70% of principals and 40% of teachers likely to retire over the next five years. The implications of this for the staffing of the specialist schools are discussed, leading to suggestions for the future.
Research into the Doman-Delacato Method: Implications for Special Educators
Authors: Hudson Alan M. , Murphy Gregory C. , Clunies-Ross Graham G.
Published: February 2016

In the last 20 years there has been considerable attention given to what has become known as the Doman-Delacato technique for the treatment of learning-disabled children (Delacato, 1959, 1963, 1966; and Doman, Spitz, Sucman, Delacato, and Doman, 1960). The treatment technique is based upon a theory of neurological organization that argues that each child's ontological neurological development is the same as phylogenic development of man as a species. It is argued that after conception the neurological development of man proceeds through successive resemblances to the fish, amphibian, animal, mammal, and finally becomes that of homo sapiens. This series of resemblances is considered to be a reflection of the development of the central nervous system from the spinal cord, through the old brain to the cerebral cortex and finally to the emergence of the dominance of one cerebral hemisphere.
Socio-economic differences in cardiometabolic risk markers are mediated by diet and body fatness in 8- to 11-year-old Danish children: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Hauger Hanne , Groth Margit V , Ritz Christian , Biltoft-Jensen Anja , Andersen Rikke , Dalskov Stine-Mathilde , Hjorth Mads F , Sjödin Anders , Astrup Arne , Michaelsen Kim F , Damsgaard Camilla T
Published: February 2016

Objective

To explore whether socio-economic differences exist in cardiometabolic risk markers in children and whether lifestyle-related factors potentially mediate these differences.

Design

Cross-sectional study including measurements of fasting blood lipids, glucose, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR), blood pressure and heart rate. Potential mediators examined were fat mass index (FMI); intakes of fruit, vegetables, dietary fibre and added sugar; whole-blood n-3 long-chain PUFA (LCPUFA) as a biomarker of fish intake; and physical activity and sedentary time.

Setting

Nine primary schools in Denmark.

Subjects

Children aged 8–11 years (n 715).

Results

Children of parents with the shortest compared with longest education had higher TAG by 0·12 (95 % CI 0·04, 0·21) mmol/l and HOMA-IR by 0·36 (0·10, 0·62), whereas children of parents with a vocational education had higher total cholesterol by 0·14 (0·02, 0·27) mmol/l and LDL cholesterol by 0·14 (0·03, 0·25) mmol/l compared with children of parents with the longest education; all P<0·05. FMI explained 25 % of the difference in TAG, 64 % of the difference in HOMA-IR and 21–29 % of the differences in cholesterols. FMI and whole-blood n-3 LCPUFA combined explained 42 % of the difference in TAG, whereas FMI, whole-blood n-3 LCPUFA and dietary fibre explained 89 % of the difference in HOMA-IR.

Conclusions

Socio-economic differences were present in blood lipids and insulin resistance among 8- to 11-year-olds and were mediated by body fatness, whole-blood n-3 LCPUFA and dietary fibre. These lifestyle factors may be targets in public initiatives to reduce socio-economic differences. Confirmation in longitudinal studies and trials is warranted.
Factors associated with (risk of) undernutrition in community-dwelling older adults receiving home care: a cross-sectional study in the Netherlands
Authors: van der Pols-Vijlbrief Rachel , Wijnhoven Hanneke AH , Molenaar Hilde , Visser Marjolein
Published: February 2016

Objective

It is generally thought that causes of undernutrition are multifactorial, but there are limited quantitative studies performed. We therefore examined a wide range of potential factors associated with undernutrition in community-dwelling older adults.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Community-dwelling older adults (≥65 years) receiving home care in the Netherlands.

Subjects

Data on potential factors associated with (risk of) undernutrition were collected among 300 older adults. Nutritional status was assessed by the SNAQ65+instrument. Undernutrition was defined as mid-upper arm circumference <25 cm or unintentional weight loss of ≥4 kg in 6 months. Being at risk of undernutrition was defined as having poor appetite and inability to walk up and down stairs of fifteen steps, without resting.

Results

Of all participants, ninety-two (31·7 %) were undernourished and twenty-four (8·0 %) were at risk of undernutrition. Based on multivariate logistic regression analyses, the statistically significant factors associated with (risk of) undernutrition (P<0·05) were: unable to go outside (OR=5·39), intestinal problems (OR=2·88), smoking (OR=2·56), osteoporosis (OR=2·46), eating fewer than three snacks daily (OR=2·61), dependency in activities of daily living (OR=1·21), physical inactivity (OR=2·01), nausea (OR=2·50) and cancer (OR=2·84); a borderline significant factor was depression symptoms (OR=1·83,P=0·053).

Conclusions

The study suggests that (risk of) undernutrition is a multifactorial problem and that associated factors can be found in several domains. These findings may support the development of intervention trials for the prevention and treatment of undernutrition in community-dwelling older adults.
Cyanobacterial evolution during the Precambrian
Authors: Schirrmeister Bettina E. , Sanchez-Baracaldo Patricia , Wacey David
Published: February 2016

Life on Earth has existed for at least 3.5 billion years. Yet, relatively little is known of its evolution during the first two billion years, due to the scarceness and generally poor preservation of fossilized biological material. Cyanobacteria, formerly known as blue green algae were among the first crown Eubacteria to evolve and for more than 2.5 billion years they have strongly influenced Earth's biosphere. Being the only organism where oxygenic photosynthesis has originated, they have oxygenated Earth's atmosphere and hydrosphere, triggered the evolution of plants --being ancestral to chloroplasts-- and enabled the evolution of complex life based on aerobic respiration. Having such a strong impact on early life, one might expect that the evolutionary success of this group may also have triggered further biosphere changes during early Earth history. However, very little is known about the early evolution of this phylum and ongoing debates about cyanobacterial fossils, biomarkers and molecular clock analyses highlight the difficulties in this field of research. Although phylogenomic analyses have provided promising glimpses into the early evolution of cyanobacteria, estimated divergence ages are often very uncertain, because of vague and insufficient tree-calibrations. Results of molecular clock analyses are intrinsically tied to these prior calibration points, hence improving calibrations will enable more precise divergence time estimations. Here we provide a review of previously described Precambrian microfossils, biomarkers and geochemical markers that inform upon the early evolution of cyanobacteria. Future research in micropalaeontology will require novel analyses and imaging techniques to improve taxonomic affiliation of many Precambrian microfossils. Consequently, a better understanding of early cyanobacterial evolution will not only allow for a more specific calibration of cyanobacterial and eubacterial phylogenies, but also provide new dates for the tree of life.
Metarhizium sp. isolated from dead Pachnoda interrupta (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae) as a potential entomopathogenic fungus for the pest insect: proof-of-concept for autodissemination
Authors: Getahun Merid N. , Biasazin Tibebe D. , Wolde-Hawariat Yitbarek , Bengtsson Jonas M. , Hillbur Ylva , Seyoum Emiru
Published: February 2016

Sustainable pest management requires the use of ecosystem-friendly control options (e.g. entomopathogens) coupled with target-specific application methods. Here we investigate the susceptibility of the sorghum chafer (Pachnoda interrupta, Olivier) toMetarhiziumsp., isolated from deadP. interruptaunder field conditions over several years. Target-specific trapping was achieved using Japanese beetle traps or locally made autoinoculation devices, with methyl salicylate or banana as an attractant. Of the attracted and infected beetles, 49% mortality was achieved during October 2005 and 71% during July 2006, while the corresponding mortality in control treatments was 13 and 5%, respectively. We further confirmed that the mortality of the beetles was due to the fungal treatment as 50 and 80% of the dead beetles showed mycosis, respectively. The performance of the pathogen was also investigated in an autodissemination device in 2008 and 2009, where the beetles that were attracted passed through an inoculation chamber. Of the attracted and infected beetles in the autodissemination device, 58.5% (October) and 90.9% (July) were dead within 15 days after treatment. Control mortality was only 3 and 2%, respectively. The potential for horizontal transmission was investigated, where 47% (October) and 59% (July) of the beetles exposed to the pathogen through horizontal transmission were killed. The pathogen was found to be viable for more than 3 days in the field. Our results show thatMetarhiziumsp. has potential as a biological control agent, and for achieving autodissemination using the target pest as the vector.
Knowledge and perception of Ghanaian cocoa farmers on mirid control and their willingness to use forecasting systems
Authors: Awudzi Godfred Kweku , Asamoah Mercy , Owusu-Ansah Frank , Hadley Paul , Hatcher Paul Edwin , Daymond Andrew James
Published: February 2016

Annual losses of cocoa in Ghana from mirids are significant; therefore, accurate timing of insecticide application is critical to enhance yields. However, cocoa farmers often lack information on the expected mirid population for each season to enable them to optimize pesticide use. This study assessed farmers' knowledge and perceptions of mirid control and their willingness to use forecasting systems informing them of the expected mirid peaks and the time of pesticide application. A total of 280 farmers were interviewed in the Eastern and Ashanti regions of Ghana with a structured open- and closed-ended questionnaire. Most farmers (87%) considered mirids the most important insect pest on cocoa, with 47% of them attributing 30–40% of annual crop losses to mirid damage. There was a wide variation in the timing of insecticide application as a result of farmers using different sources of information to guide the start of application. The majority of farmers (56%) did not have access to information about the type, frequency and timing of insecticide use. However, respondents who were members of farmer groups had better access to such information. Extension officers were the preferred channel for information transfer to farmers, with 72% of farmers preferring them to other available methods of communication. Almost all the respondents (99%) saw the need for a comprehensive forecasting system to help farmers manage cocoa mirids. The importance of the accurate timing of mirid control based on forecasted information to farmer groups and extension officers is discussed.
A Feasibility Study of Group Caregiver Training for the Prevention of Obesity (GCT-O) in African American Preschoolers
Authors: Matherne Camden E. , Zucker Nancy , Bryant Edny J. , Sbrocco Tracy , Mirza Nazrat , Tanofsky-Kraff Marian
Published: February 2016

Obesity prevention is a priority for African American (AA) children. However, effective programs are sparse. We therefore conducted a feasibility study of an 8-week group caregiver training program for obesity prevention (GCT-O) targeting parental self-efficacy in family-based lifestyle change. Twenty primary caregivers of overweight and obese (BMI z score M = 2.46, SD = .93), AA preschoolers ( M = 4.10 y, SD = 1.48, 70% female) participated in an open-trial of GCT-O within a community setting serving primarily low-income, AA families. Caregivers completed assessments of parenting and child behavior at baseline and postintervention, and feasibility/acceptability questionnaires at postintervention. Child height and weight were measured at both time points and at 3-month follow-up. Retention through postintervention was 75%. Average attendance was M = 5.12, SD = 2.12 of 8 sessions. Caregivers reported enjoying the program (100%), and found it helpful (87%) and feasible (79%). Postintervention, caregivers reported less authoritarian ( p = .02) and permissive ( p = .03) parenting, improved feeding practices ( p = .03), and a reduction in youth’s lifestyle-related problem behaviors ( p = .01). Caregiver report of children’s daily caloric intake decreased from baseline to postintervention ( p = .04). Parental self-efficacy did not improve postintervention ( p = .23). Child BMI z score was unchanged postintervention ( p = .70), but decreased significantly by 3-month follow-up ( p = .02). GCT-O was feasible and acceptable to program completers. Preliminary results suggest that GCT-O may improve caregiver and child behavior and prevent excess weight gain among AA preschoolers. An adequately powered and controlled efficacy trial is warranted.
Sex-specific alterations in glucose homeostasis and metabolic parameters during ageing of caspase-2-deficient mice
Authors: Wilson C H , Nikolic A , Kentish S J , Shalini S , Hatzinikolas G , Page A J , Dorstyn L , Kumar S
Published: February 2016

Gender-specific differences are commonly found in metabolic pathways and in response to nutritional manipulation. Previously, we identified a role for caspase-2 in age-related glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism using male caspase-2-deficient (Casp2−/−) mice. Here we show that the resistance to age-induced glucose tolerance does not occur in female Casp2−/− mice and it appears to be independent of insulin sensitivity in males. Using fasting (18 h) as a means to further investigate the role of caspase-2 in energy and lipid metabolism, we identified sex-specific differences in the fasting response and lipid mobilization. In aged (18–22 months) male Casp2−/− mice, a significant decrease in fasting liver mass, but not total body weight, was observed while in females, total body weight, but not liver mass, was reduced when compared with wild-type (WT) animals. Fasting-induced lipolysis of adipose tissue was enhanced in male Casp2−/− mice as indicated by a significant reduction in white adipocyte cell size, and increased serum-free fatty acids. In females, white adipocyte cell size was significantly smaller in both fed and fasted Casp2−/− mice. No difference in fasting-induced hepatosteatosis was observed in the absence of caspase-2. Further analysis of white adipose tissue (WAT) indicated that female Casp2−/− mice may have enhanced fatty acid recycling and metabolism with expression of genes involved in glyceroneogenesis and fatty acid oxidation increased. Loss of Casp2 also increased fasting-induced autophagy in both male and female liver and in female skeletal muscle. Our observations suggest that caspase-2 can regulate glucose homeostasis and lipid metabolism in a tissue and sex-specific manner.
Layer-dependent quantum cooperation of electron and hole states in the anomalous semimetal WTe2
Authors: Das Pranab Kumar , Di Sante D. , Vobornik I. , Fujii J. , Okuda T. , Bruyer E. , Gyenis A. , Feldman B. E. , Tao J. , Ciancio R. , Rossi G. , Ali M. N. , Picozzi S. , Yadzani A. , Panaccione G. , Cava R. J.
Published: February 2016

The behaviour of electrons and holes in a crystal lattice is a fundamental quantum phenomenon, accounting for a rich variety of material properties. Boosted by the remarkable electronic and physical properties of two-dimensional materials such as graphene and topological insulators, transition metal dichalcogenides have recently received renewed attention. In this context, the anomalous bulk properties of semimetallic WTe2 have attracted considerable interest. Here we report angle- and spin-resolved photoemission spectroscopy of WTe2 single crystals, through which we disentangle the role of W and Te atoms in the formation of the band structure and identify the interplay of charge, spin and orbital degrees of freedom. Supported by first-principles calculations and high-resolution surface topography, we reveal the existence of a layer-dependent behaviour. The balance of electron and hole states is found only when considering at least three Te–W–Te layers, showing that the behaviour of WTe2 is not strictly two dimensional.
Spin-momentum coupled Bose-Einstein condensates with lattice band pseudospins
Authors: Khamehchi M. A. , Qu Chunlei , Mossman M. E. , Zhang Chuanwei , Engels P.
Published: February 2016

The quantum emulation of spin-momentum coupling, a crucial ingredient for the emergence of topological phases, is currently drawing considerable interest. In previous quantum gas experiments, typically two atomic hyperfine states were chosen as pseudospins. Here, we report the observation of a spin-momentum coupling achieved by loading a Bose-Einstein condensate into periodically driven optical lattices. The s and p bands of a static lattice, which act as pseudospins, are coupled through an additional moving lattice that induces a momentum-dependent coupling between the two pseudospins, resulting in s–p hybrid Floquet-Bloch bands. We investigate the band structures by measuring the quasimomentum of the Bose-Einstein condensate for different velocities and strengths of the moving lattice, and compare our measurements to theoretical predictions. The realization of spin-momentum coupling with lattice bands as pseudospins paves the way for engineering novel quantum matter using hybrid orbital bands.
A HSP60-targeting peptide for cell apoptosis imaging
Authors: Yang S , Meng J , Yang Y , Liu H , Wang C , Liu J , Zhang Y , Wang C , Xu H
Published: February 2016

Apoptosis has a critical role in both physiological and pathological processes, and therefore probes that enable direct and fast visualization for apoptosis in vitro and in vivo have great significance for evaluation of therapeutic effects, disease monitoring and drug screening. We report here a novel apoptotic marker heat shock protein 60 (HSP60)-based apoptosis imaging probe, P17. In this study, we show that P17 can label multiple drug-induced apoptotic cells in vitro, and the difference in binding intensities between apoptotic and viable cells by fluorescent P17 is more than 10-fold in six cell lines measured by flow cytometry and proportional to the apoptotic level of the cells. We further visualized the apoptosis in the subcutaneous tumor of mice by vein injection of P17 using in vivo fluorescent imaging. P17 was identified to bind specifically to HSP60 accumulated in apoptotic cells by pull-down experiments and mass spectrometry. Furthermore, the P17 binding was correlated with the apoptotic feature of phosphatidylserine (PS) exposure and caspase-3 activation. We also clarify that P17 labels the cells in late stage apoptosis by double staining with different stage markers, unveiling that HSP60 may be involved with late stage of apoptosis. Overall, this study has demonstrated that P17 is a novel apoptosis probe targeting HSP60 and promising for the detection of apoptosis in vitro and in vivo.