bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bioadhesion: a review of concepts and applications
Authors: Palacio Manuel L. B. , Bhushan Bharat
Published: April 2012

Bioadhesion refers to the phenomenon where natural and synthetic materials adhere to biological surfaces. An understanding of the fundamental mechanisms that govern bioadhesion is of great interest for various researchers who aim to develop new biomaterials, therapies and technological applications such as biosensors. This review paper will first describe various examples of the manifestation of bioadhesion along with the underlying mechanisms. This will be followed by a discussion of some of the methods for the optimization of bioadhesion. Finally, nanoscale and macroscale characterization techniques for the efficacy of bioadhesion and the analysis of failure surfaces are described.
ImmunoFET feasibility in physiological salt environments
Authors: Casal Patricia , Wen Xuejin , Gupta Samit , Nicholson Theodore , Wang Yuji , Theiss Andrew , Bhushan Bharat , Brillson Leonard , Lu Wu , Lee Stephen C.
Published: April 2012

Field-effect transistors (FETs) are solid-state electrical devices featuring current sources, current drains and semiconductor channels through which charge carriers migrate. FETs can be inexpensive, detect analyte without label, exhibit exponential responses to surface potential changes mediated by analyte binding, require limited sample preparation and operate in real time. ImmunoFETs for protein sensing deploy bioaffinity elements on their channels (antibodies), analyte binding to which modulates immunoFET electrical properties. Historically, immunoFETs were assessed infeasible owing to ion shielding in physiological environments. We demonstrate reliable immunoFET sensing of chemokines by relatively ion-impermeable III-nitride immunoHFETs (heterojunction FETs) in physiological buffers. Data show that the specificity of detection follows the specificity of the antibodies used as receptors, allowing us to discriminate between individual highly related protein species (human and murine CXCL9) as well as mixed samples of analytes (native and biotinylated CXCL9). These capabilities demonstrate that immunoHFETs can be feasible, contrary to classical FET-sensing assessment. FET protein sensors may lead to point-of-care diagnostics that are faster and cheaper than immunoassay in clinical, biotechnological and environmental applications.
The RDE-10/RDE-11 complex triggers RNAi-induced mRNA degradation by association with target mRNA in C. elegans
Authors: Yang Huan , Zhang Ying , Vallandingham Jim , Li Hau , Florens Laurence , Mak Ho Yi
Published: April 2012

The molecular mechanisms for target mRNA degradation in Caenorhabditis elegans undergoing RNAi are not fully understood. Using a combination of genetic, proteomic, and biochemical approaches, we report a divergent RDE-10/RDE-11 complex that is required for RNAi in C. elegans. Genetic analysis indicates that the RDE-10/RDE-11 complex acts in parallel to nuclear RNAi. Association of the complex with target mRNA is dependent on RDE-1 but not RRF-1, suggesting that target mRNA recognition depends on primary but not secondary siRNA. Furthermore, RDE-11 is required for mRNA degradation subsequent to target engagement. Deep sequencing reveals a fivefold decrease in secondary siRNA abundance in rde-10 and rde-11 mutant animals, while primary siRNA and microRNA biogenesis is normal. Therefore, the RDE-10/RDE-11 complex is critical for amplifying the exogenous RNAi response. Our work uncovers an essential output of the RNAi pathway in C. elegans.
Linking photoreceptor excitation to changes in plant architecture
Authors: Li Lin , Ljung Karin , Breton Ghislain , Schmitz Robert J. , Pruneda-Paz Jose , Cowing-Zitron Chris , Cole Benjamin J. , Ivans Lauren J. , Pedmale Ullas V. , Jung Hou-Sung , Ecker Joseph R. , Kay Steve A. , Chory Joanne
Published: April 2012

Plants sense neighbor proximity as a decrease in the ratio of red to far-red light, which triggers a series of developmental responses. In Arabidopsis, phytochrome B (PHYB) is the major sensor of shade, but PHYB excitation has not been linked directly to a growth response. We show that the basic helix–loop–helix (bHLH) transcription factor PIF7 (phytochrome-interacting factor 7), an interactor of PHYB, accumulates in its dephosphorylated form in shade, allowing it to bind auxin biosynthetic genes and increase their expression. New auxin synthesized through a PIF7-regulated pathway is required for shade-induced growth, linking directly the perception of a light quality signal to a rapid growth response.
Disabled Children's Voices: The Nature and Role of Future Empirical Enquiry
Authors: Carpenter John , McConkey Roy
Published: April 2012

Disabled children are among the most marginalised in our society. Their influence has been negligible on policies and service practices that directly affect their lives. Empirical research using innovative methodologies can at least enable their voices to be heard. Based on the contributions of leading researchers and practitioners to a seminar series in theUK, a schema to guide future research was developed that aims to reduce the fragmented approach that exists at present. It considers both the context in which research is conducted and the nature of the investigations. The schema places particular emphasis on research influencing policy and practice.
The ISA 700 Auditor's Report and the Audit Expectation Gap – Do Explanations Matter?
Authors: Gold Anna , Gronewold Ulfert , Pott Christiane
Published: April 2012

In this paper we test the effectiveness of explanations as mandated by the revised ISA 700 auditor's report in reducing the audit expectation gap. German auditors and financial statement users participated in an experiment where they read a summary of a firm's financial statements and an auditor's report, the latter of which we manipulated as being the auditor's report including the explanations as mandated by ISA 700 versus a mere audit opinion‐only version. We elicited participants' perceptions about auditor versus management responsibilities and financial statement reliability. We find strong evidence for a persistent expectation gap with respect to the auditor's responsibilities. Meanwhile, auditors and users reach a reasonable belief consensus regarding management's responsibilities and financial statement reliability. Most notably, explanations of the ISA 700 auditor's report do not result in a smaller expectation gap. Our findings suggest that the audit opinion alone may signal sufficient relevant information to users.
Genetic analysis of multiple antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella isolated from diseased broilers in Egypt
Authors: Ahmed Ashraf M. , Shimamoto Tadashi
Published: April 2012

To date, no information has been available on the molecular bases of antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella spp. from poultry in Egypt or even in Africa. Therefore, the objective of this study was to analyze, at the molecular level, the mechanisms of multidrug‐resistance in isolates of Salmonella recovered from diseased broilers in Egypt. Twenty‐one Salmonella isolates were identified; 13 of these isolates were Salmonella enterica serovar Enteritidis and eight Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium. 17 (81%). Salmonella isolates displayed multidrug resistance phenotypes, particularly against ampicillin, streptomycin, spectinomycin, kanamycin, tetracycline, chloramphenicol, and trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole. PCR and DNA sequencing identified class 1 integrons in nine (42.9%) isolates and class 2 integrons in three (14.3%) isolates. The identified resistance genes within class 1 integrons were aminoglycoside adenyltransferase type A, aadA1, aadA2 and aadA5 and dihydrofolate reductase type A, dfrA1, dfrA5, dfrA12, dfrA15 and dfrA17. The β‐lactamase encoding genes blaTEM‐1 and blaCMY‐2 and florfenicol resistance gene floR were also identified. Furthermore, the tetracycline resistance gene tet(A) was identified in 14 (66.7%) Salmonella isolates. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the molecular basis of antimicrobial resistance in Salmonella spp. isolated from poultry in Africa.
Comparison of CD20 expression in B‐cell lymphoma between newly diagnosed, untreated cases and those after rituximab treatment
Authors: Miyoshi Hiroaki , Arakawa Fumiko , Sato Kensaku , Kimura Yoshizo , Kiyasu Junichi , Takeuchi Masanori , Yoshida Maki , Ichikawa Ayako , Ishibashi Yukinao , Nakamura Yukihiko , Nakashima Shinji , Niino Daisuke , Sugita Yasuo , Ohshima Koichi
Published: April 2012

Few studies have statistically investigated reduced CD20 expression in B‐cell lymphoma after rituximab therapy and genomic mutation of CD20 associated with reduction. We examined CD20‐positive rate in follicular lymphoma (FL) and diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) by flow cytometry (FCM) and immunohistochemical staining (IHS), comparing 138 cases after rituximab therapy with 360 initial, not yet treated cases. Sequence analysis of exons 3 to 8 of CD20 was performed on 22 cases with low CD20‐positive rate after rituximab treatment. The results showed a statistical correlation between CD20‐positive rate in FCM and IHS. By FCM, the CD20‐positive rate among post‐rituximab cases was significantly lower than among initial cases in DLBCL, non‐germinal center origin B‐cell type (average values [avg] 57.8 and 87.9, respectively) (P < 0.0001), FL2 (avg, 93.9; 103.2) (P = 0.0083), and FL3A (avg, 90.6; 100.7) (P = 0.033). Stratified analyses of post‐rituximab cases showed significantly lower CD20‐positive rate in cases that were resistant at the start of the treatment and cases with progressive disease during rituximab therapy before biopsy. Sequence analysis showed silent mutation of exon 4 (632 C/T) in seven cases, although this number was not statistically significant. These results suggest the influence of B‐lymphoma subtype and a therapeutic effect before biopsy on CD20 expression at relapse and contribute to a better therapeutic approach for relapse cases after rituximab therapy. (Cancer Sci, doi: 10.1111/j.1349‐7006.2012.02307.x, 2012)
Engagement strategies and change: an intentional practice response for the child welfare worker in cases of domestic violence
Authors: Melchiorre Rylee , Vis Jo‐Ann
Published: April 2012

In order to engage mothers who are victims of domestic abuse, the child welfare worker needs to be challenged to develop an intentional practice response that includes knowledge and skill concerning the complexities of domestic violence, as well as the process of change. Developing a supportive relationship, understanding the stages of change (SOC) and engaging mothers as leaders in the change process are essential to successful child protection outcomes. Within the context of the SOC model, this practice‐based paper focuses on the importance of engaging mothers who are victims of domestic violence in conversations about their own unique dilemmas, challenges and barriers regarding change. Through the inclusion of engagement strategies such as signs of safety, active listening and cost/benefit analysis, in concert with the SOC theory, the child welfare worker would be equipped with an approach to successfully assist mothers through their change journey, ultimately keeping children safe.
Migrate or stay: terrestrial primary productivity and climate drive anadromy in Arctic char
Authors: Finstad Anders G. , Hein Catherine L.
Published: April 2012

A shift in the magnitude and timing of animal migrations is one of the most documented ecological effects of climate change. Although migrations are largely driven by spatial variation in resource gradients, few studies connect expected changes in primary production with geographic patterns in migratory behavior. Here, we link lake primary production to the occurrence of sea migrations in the partially anadromous salmonid Arctic char (Salvelinus alpinusL.). We compiled presence/absence records of anadromous char populations spanning productivity and temperature gradients along the Norwegian coast. The probability of anadromy decreased with increasing migration distance, maximum slope of the migration route and lake productivity. There was a significant interaction between lake productivity and migration distance. The negative effect of longer migration distances was more severe in lakes with higher productivity, indicating reduced relative profitability of migration with increased feeding opportunities in freshwater. Lake productivity was mainly driven by terrestrial primary production in the catchment. We predicted future distributions of anadromous char given downscaled temperature and precipitation changes projected by two different emission scenarios and global climate models (GCMs). Projected increases in temperature and precipitation in 2071–2100 increased terrestrial primary production and, compared to the control scenario (1961–1990), decreased the range of anadromous populations. The prevalence of anadromy decreased by 53% in the HadAm3HGCMwith the A2 emission scenario, 61% in HadAm3H with the B2 scenario and 22% inECHAM4 with the B2 scenario. Cross‐ecosystem studies (e.g., terrestrial to freshwater) are critical for understanding ecological impacts of climate change. In this case, climate‐driven increases in terrestrial primary production are expected to increase primary production in lakes and ultimately reduce the prevalence of anadromy in Arctic char populations.
Mortality, health care utilization and associated diagnoses in hospitalized patients with haemophilia in the United States: first reported nationwide estimates
Authors: GOEL R. , KRISHNAMURTI L.
Published: April 2012

Summary.  To describe the in‐hospital epidemiology of haemophilia A and B in the US we analysed the National Inpatient Sample (NIS), a stratified probability sample of 20% of all hospital discharges in the US for the year 2007. We applied sampling weights to represent all hospital discharges for haemophilia A and B identified using ICD‐9 codes 286.0 and 286.1, respectively. Haemophilia (A or B) was one of all the listed diagnoses in 9737 discharges and principal diagnosis in 1684 discharges. The most common associated diagnoses in discharges with Haemophilia in adults and children were hypertension (28.1 ± 1.6%) and central line infections (15.2 ± 1.8%) respectively. No Hepatitis C or HIV was reported in children. Among 212 deaths, associated diagnoses included sepsis (37.9%), heart failure (30.2%), respiratory failure (28.3%), pneumonia (24.5%), HIV (14.2%), hepatic coma (5.2%) and intracranial haemorrhage (2.3%). All fifteen reported paediatric deaths occurred on day zero of life, the commonest associated diagnoses being Intraventricular haemorrhage and newborn haemorrhage‐NOS (33% each). Median age of in‐hospital mortality for diagnosis of Haemophilia was 68.3 years as compared to 72.3 years for all males for all hospitalizations in NIS combined. Mean hospital charges for haemophilia of $76823 ± 5530 were significantly higher than those from all causes of hospitalization of $26,120 ± 562. In‐hospital mortality is rare in children with haemophilia beyond the neonatal period and age of mortality in adults is approaching that of the general male population. Hospitalization in children is most often due to central line infections and hospitalization and death in adults is primarily due to age‐related illnesses.
Loss of succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) expression is limited to a distinctive subset of gastric wild‐type gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a comprehensive genotype–phenotype correlation study
Authors: Doyle Leona A , Nelson Dylan , Heinrich Michael C , Corless Christopher L , Hornick Jason L
Published: April 2012

Doyle L A, Nelson D, Heinrich M C, Corless C L & Hornick J L  (2012) Histopathology 61, 801–809

Loss of succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) expression is limited to a distinctive subset of gastric wild‐type gastrointestinal stromal tumours: a comprehensive genotype–phenotype correlation study

Aims:  Gastrointestinal stromal tumours (GISTs) typically harbour KIT or PDGFRA mutations; 15% of adult GISTs and >90% in children lack such mutations (‘wild‐type’ GISTs). Paediatric and occasional adult GISTs show similar, distinctive features: multinodular architecture and epithelioid morphology, indolent behaviour with metastases, and imatinib resistance. Recent studies have suggested that these tumours can be identified by loss of succinate dehydrogenase subunit B (SDHB) expression. The aim of this study was to validate the predictive value of SDHB immunohistochemistry in a large genotyped cohort.

Methods and results:  SDHB expression was examined in GISTs with known genotypes: 179 with KIT mutations, 32 with PDGFRA mutations, and 53 wild type. Histological features were recorded without knowledge of genotype or SDHB status. SDHB was deficient in 22 (42%) wild‐type GISTs. All other tumours showed intact SDHB expression. All SDHB‐deficient GISTs with known primary sites arose in the stomach, and had multinodular architecture and epithelioid or mixed morphology. None of the wild‐type GISTs with intact SDHB showed multinodular architecture, and only four (13%) had epithelioid morphology.

Conclusions:  SDHB‐deficient GISTs are wild‐type gastric tumours with distinctive histology. Immunohistochemistry for SDHB can be used to confirm the diagnosis of this tumour class. SDHB expression is retained in all GISTs with KIT and PDGFRA mutations.
Towards an evaluation framework for information quality management (IQM) practices for health information systems – evaluation criteria for effective IQM practices
Authors: Mohammed Siti Asma , Yusof Maryati Mohd
Published: April 2012

Rationale, aims and objectives  Poor information quality (IQ) must be understood as a business problem rather than systems problem. In health care organization, what is required is an effective quality management that continuously manages and reviews the factors influencing IQ in health information systems (HIS) so as to achieve the desired outcomes. Hence, in order to understand the issues of information quality management (IQM) practices in health care organizations, a more holistic evaluation study should be undertaken to investigate the IQM practices in health care organizations. It is the aim of this paper to identify the significant evaluation criteria that influence the production of good IQ in HIS.

Methods  Six selected frameworks and best practices both from health informatics and information systems literature have been reviewed to identify the evaluation criteria from the perspective of human, organizational and technological factors.

Results  From the review, it was found that human and organization factors are of greater significance in influencing HIS IQ. Our review depicts that there is still shortage in finding a comprehensive IQM evaluation framework. Thus, the criteria from the frameworks reviewed can be used in combination for more comprehensive evaluation criteria. Integrated IQM evaluation criteria for HIS are then proposed in this study.

Conclusions  Poor IQ is the result of complex interdependency within sociotechnical factors in health care organization and lack of formal and structured IQM practices. Thus, a feedback mechanism such as evaluation is needed to understand the issues in depth in the future.
Psychotropic medication use and association with physical and psychosocial outcomes in nursing home residents
Authors: GALIK E. , RESNICK B.
Published: April 2012

Accessible summary

Psychotropic medications, such as antipsychotics, antidepressants, anxiolytics, and sedative/hypnotics, are commonly prescribed for nursing home residents, but have been associated with negative health outcomes.

In this study, 69% of the nursing home residents were prescribed at least one psychotropic medication. Physical outcomes (specifically physical function and balance) were significantly lower in those residents taking psychotropic medications than those not taking psychotropic medications. Psychosocial outcomes (specifically self‐efficacy and outcome expectations for function, and quality of life) were significantly lower in those residents taking psychotropic medications.

The findings from this study provide additional support for the prevalence of psychotropic medication use among nursing home residents and may suggest that residents taking psychotropic medications are less likely to engage in functional activities, and experience decreased quality of life.

Psychotropic medications are commonly prescribed for older adults living in long‐term care settings. Use of these medications has been associated with negative functional outcomes. The purpose of this study was to describe the prevalence of psychotropic medication use among nursing home residents, and to explore the relationship of psychotropic medication use on physical and psychosocial outcomes. A secondary data analysis was done using baseline measures from the Res‐Care Intervention Study. The sample included 419 residents from 12 nursing homes. There were 288 participants (69%) who were prescribed at least one psychotropic medication, with 81 participants (19%) receiving antipsychotics, 248 (59%) receiving antidepressants, 50 (12%) receiving anxiolytics and 37 (9%) receiving sedative/hypnotics. Controlling for gender, age and cognition, physical outcomes were significantly lower in residents receiving psychotropic medications (F= 3.2, P= 0.01) compared to those not receiving psychotropic medications. Psychosocial outcomes were significantly lower in those residents receiving psychotropic mediations (F= 2.0, P= 0.04). The findings from this study provide additional support for the prevalence of psychotropic medication use among nursing home residents and suggest that residents receiving psychotropic medications may be less likely to engage in functional activities and experience decreased quality of life.
DNA from soil mirrors plant taxonomic and growth form diversity
Authors: YOCCOZ N. G. , BRÅTHEN K. A. , GIELLY L. , HAILE J. , EDWARDS M. E. , GOSLAR T. , Von STEDINGK H. , BRYSTING A. K. , COISSAC E. , POMPANON F. , SØNSTEBØ J. H. , MIQUEL C. , VALENTINI A. , De BELLO F. , CHAVE J. , THUILLER W. , WINCKER P. , CRUAUD C. , GAVORY F. , RASMUSSEN M. , GILBERT M. T. P. , ORLANDO L. , BROCHMANN C. , WILLERSLEV E. , TABERLET P.
Published: April 2012

Ecosystems across the globe are threatened by climate change and human activities. New rapid survey approaches for monitoring biodiversity would greatly advance assessment and understanding of these threats. Taking advantage of next‐generation DNA sequencing, we tested an approach we call metabarcoding: high‐throughput and simultaneous taxa identification based on a very short (usually <100 base pairs) but informative DNA fragment. Short DNA fragments allow the use of degraded DNA from environmental samples. All analyses included amplification using plant‐specific versatile primers, sequencing and estimation of taxonomic diversity. We tested in three steps whether degraded DNA from dead material in soil has the potential of efficiently assessing biodiversity in different biomes. First, soil DNA from eight boreal plant communities located in two different vegetation types (meadow and heath) was amplified. Plant diversity detected from boreal soil was highly consistent with plant taxonomic and growth form diversity estimated from conventional above‐ground surveys. Second, we assessed DNA persistence using samples from formerly cultivated soils in temperate environments. We found that the number of crop DNA sequences retrieved strongly varied with years since last cultivation, and crop sequences were absent from nearby, uncultivated plots. Third, we assessed the universal applicability of DNA metabarcoding using soil samples from tropical environments: a large proportion of species and families from the study site were efficiently recovered. The results open unprecedented opportunities for large‐scale DNA‐based biodiversity studies across a range of taxonomic groups using standardized metabarcoding approaches.
Shedding light on bioluminescence regulation in Vibrio fischeri
Authors: Miyashiro Tim , Ruby Edward G.
Published: April 2012

The bioluminescence emitted by the marine bacterium Vibrio fischeri is a particularly striking result of individual microbial cells co‐ordinating a group behaviour. The genes responsible for light production are principally regulated by the LuxR–LuxI quorum‐sensing system. In addition to LuxR–LuxI, numerous other genetic elements and environmental conditions control bioluminescence production. Efforts to mathematically model the LuxR–LuxI system are providing insight into the dynamics of this autoinduction behaviour. The Hawaiian squid Euprymna scolopes forms a natural symbiosis with V. fischeri, and utilizes the symbiont‐derived bioluminescence for certain nocturnal behaviours, such as counterillumination. Recent work suggests that the tissue with which V. fischeri associates not only can detect bioluminescence but may also use this light to monitor the V. fischeri population.
Epidemiological analysis of the effects of biofumigation for biological control of root rot in sugar beet
Authors: Motisi N. , Poggi S. , Filipe J. A. N. , Lucas P. , Doré T. , Montfort F. , Gilligan C. A. , Bailey D. J.
Published: April 2012

The effects of biofumigation using a Brassica juncea (mustard) cover crop on the dynamics of rhizoctonia root rot of sugar beet were recorded in two field trials in 2007 and 2008, and analysed using epidemiological modelling. Differences between partial biofumigation, involving the pulling up of mustard plants, and complete biofumigation, involving the crushing and incorporation of mustard residues into the soil, were compared with bare soil treatment. An epidemiological model was used that includes rates of transmission of primary and secondary infection, pre‐emergence damping off, and expression of wilting symptoms (above‐ground disease) due to infected roots (below‐ground disease). The model indicated that biofumigation reduces the transmission of primary infections but affects secondary infections in a variable pattern between field trials. Likewise, the proportion of infected plants expressing wilting was significantly reduced, by 28%, in the partial and complete biofumigation treatments compared with bare soil in the trial of 2007 but not in 2008. It is suggested that the effects of biofumigation on secondary infection and the expression of disease are more variable than those on primary infection, and that this is probably due to an interplay between pathogen, antagonists, host, and environmental factors. These interactions may or may not offset the benefits afforded by a reduction in primary infection and account for the overall variable success of biofumigation to control disease.
Geomorphology of carbonate platform‐marginal uppermost slopes: Insights from a Holocene analogue, Little Bahama Bank, Bahamas
Authors: RANKEY EUGENE C. , DOOLITTLE DANIEL F.
Published: April 2012

As the product of a variety of sediment sources and sedimentation (and re‐sedimentation) and erosion processes, the geomorphology and sedimentology of carbonate slopes are highly variable. The purpose of this study is to describe sub‐bottom profiles and side‐scan sonar, multibeam and optical data acquired by an autonomous underwater vehicle to explore variability in geomorphological and sedimentological character of the present‐day platform‐marginal, uppermost slope environments (< 240 m water depth) on the north, open‐ocean facing flank of Little Bahama Bank, Bahamas. Although at time scales of greater than 100 ka this margin is progradational, the data illustrate a complex juxtaposition of erosional and depositional processes and features. Erosion is evidenced by two prominent escarpments (70 m and 120 m) that expose eroded, bedded rocky outcrops. These escarpments are interpreted to represent relict features, related to past sea‐level positions, although they still may be shedding debris. Aside from erosional remnants, sedimentation and active transport is indicated by several features, including active bedforms (especially above the 70 m escarpment, but ripples occur to depths of ca 200 m), several mass transport complexes that overlie and cover the lower escarpment, gravity flow deposits and rare slump features. Similarly, a thick (up to 20 m) onlapping sediment wedge, interpreted to be Holocene in age, suggests lateral accretion of the slope by more than 75 m in this period. Data illustrate that this open‐ocean margin is distinct from windward margins in the Bahamas, which typically include near‐vertical walls of erosion or bypass, flanked downdip by rubble and talus, and leeward margins, which have onlapping muddy wedges, but that lack marked terraces or escarpments. Collectively, the results provide perspectives into the nature and controls on complex geomorphological patterns of erosion and deposition in Holocene uppermost slope systems, concepts potentially applicable to ancient analogues.
PETAL LOSS is a boundary gene that inhibits growth between developing sepals in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Lampugnani Edwin R. , Kilinc Aydin , Smyth David R.
Published: April 2012

Flower primordia are partitioned by boundaries during their early development. Such boundaries occur between whorls of organs, and also between organs within whorls. PETAL LOSS (PTL) is a trihelix transcription factor gene that is expressed in boundaries between sepal primordia in the outer whorl. Over‐expression of PTL results in growth suppression suggesting that PTL normally inhibits growth between newly arising sepals. We have tested this by examining the consequences of loss of PTL function using confocal imaging. The size of the inter‐sepal zone in stage 4 buds expands radially by 35–40% in ptl‐1 mutants as a consequence of additional cell proliferation. There is no change in the size of PTL‐expressing cells. PTL expression does not overlap with the sites of petal initiation identified using the DR5 auxin response reporter. The latter are closer to the centre of the flower. Thus the consequence of loss of PTL function on petal initiation is indirect, perhaps through interference with a mobile petal‐initiation signal or movement of the PTL protein. CUP‐SHAPED COTYLEDON (CUC) genes are also involved in defining inter‐sepal boundaries. However, genetic studies combining ptl with loss of cuc1 function, and gain of CUC function in extra early petals‐1 (miR164c) mutants, have revealed that CUC and PTL act differently. CUC suppresses growth of sepal tissues from the boundary region whereas PTL acts to keep the size of the boundary in check.
Oxytocin regulates changes of extracellular glutamate and GABA levels induced by methamphetamine in the mouse brain
Authors: Qi Jia , Han Wen‐Yan , Yang Jing‐Yu , Wang Li‐Hui , Dong Ying‐Xu , Wang Fang , Song Ming , Wu Chun‐Fu
Published: April 2012

Oxytocin (OT), a neurohypophyseal neuropeptide, affects adaptive processes of the central nervous system. In the present study, we investigated the effects of OT on extracellular levels of glutamate (Glu) and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) induced by methamphetamine (MAP) in the medial prefrontal cortex (mPFC) and dorsal hippocampus (DHC) of freely moving mice, using in vivo microdialysis coupled to high‐performance liquid chromatography and fluorescence detection. The results showed that OT had no effect on basal Glu levels, but attenuated MAP‐induced Glu increase in the mPFC and decrease in the DHC. OT increased the basal levels of extracellular GABA in mPFC and DHC of mice, and inhibited the MAP‐induced GABA decrease in DHC. Western blot results indicated that OT significantly inhibited the increased glutamatergic receptor (NR1 subunit) levels in the PFC after acute MAP administration, whereas OT further enhanced the elevated levels of glutamatergic transporter (GLT1) induced by MAP in the hippocampus of mice. Atosiban, a selective inhibitor of OT receptor, antagonized the effects of OT. The results provided the first neurochemical evidence that OT, which exerted its action via its receptor, decreased Glu release induced by MAP, and attenuated the changes in glutamatergic neurotransmission partially via regulation of NR1 and GLT1 expression. OT‐induced extracellular GABA increase also suggests that OT acts potentially as an inhibitory neuromodulator in mPFC and DHC of mice.
Cardiac antibody–mediated rejection
Authors: Chin Clifford
Published: April 2012

Chin C. Cardiac antibody–mediated rejection.

Abstract: Many factors limit short‐ and long‐term survival after pediatric heart transplantation. Historically, attention had been directed toward T‐cell responses and acute cellular rejection. Presence of pretransplant antibodies against HLA is associated with increased donor wait times and poor post‐transplant outcomes. Therapies aimed to mitigate circulating antibodies include plasmapheresis, protein A immunoadsorption columns, intravenous immune globulin, rituximab, and bortezomib. The negative effects of B cells, HLA antibodies, and AMR and potential interventions are the focus of this review article.
Effects of parental radiation exposure on developmental instability in grasshoppers
Authors: BEASLEY D. E. , BONISOLI‐ALQUATI A. , WELCH S. M. , MØLLER A. P. , MOUSSEAU T. A.
Published: April 2012

Mutagenic and epigenetic effects of environmental stressors and their transgenerational consequences are of interest to evolutionary biologists because they can amplify natural genetic variation. We studied the effect of parental exposure to radioactive contamination on offspring development in lesser marsh grasshopperChorthippus albomarginatus. We used a geometric morphometric approach to measure fluctuating asymmetry (FA), wing shape and wing size. We measured time to sexual maturity to check whether parental exposure to radiation influenced offspring developmental trajectory and tested effects of radiation on hatching success and parental fecundity. Wings were larger in early maturing individuals born to parents from high radiation sites compared to early maturing individuals from low radiation sites. As time to sexual maturity increased, wing size decreased but more sharply in individuals from high radiation sites. Radiation exposure did not significantly affect FA or shape in wings nor did it significantly affect hatching success and fecundity. Overall, parental radiation exposure can adversely affect offspring development and fitness depending on developmental trajectories although the cause of this effect remains unclear. We suggest more direct measures of fitness and the inclusion of replication in future studies to help further our understanding of the relationship between developmental instability, fitness and environmental stress.
No evidence for the ‘expensive‐tissue hypothesis’ from an intraspecific study in a highly variable species
Authors: WARREN D. L. , IGLESIAS T. L.
Published: April 2012

The ‘expensive‐tissue hypothesis’ states that investment in one metabolically costly tissue necessitates decreased investment in other tissues and has been one of the keystone concepts used in studying the evolution of metabolically expensive tissues. The trade‐offs expected under this hypothesis have been investigated in comparative studies in a number of clades, yet support for the hypothesis is mixed. Nevertheless, the expensive‐tissue hypothesis has been used to explain everything from the evolution of the human brain to patterns of reproductive investment in bats. The ambiguous support for the hypothesis may be due to interspecific differences in selection, which could lead to spurious results both positive and negative. To control for this, we conduct a study of trade‐offs within a single species, Thalassoma bifasciatum, a coral reef fish that exhibits more intraspecific variation in a single tissue (testes) than is seen across many of the clades previously analysed in studies of tissue investment. This constitutes a robust test of the constraints posited under the expensive‐tissue hypothesis that is not affected by many of the factors that may confound interspecific studies. However, we find no evidence of trade‐offs between investment in testes and investment in liver or brain, which are typically considered to be metabolically expensive. Our results demonstrate that the frequent rejection of the expensive‐tissue hypothesis may not be an artefact of interspecific differences in selection and suggests that organisms may be capable of compensating for substantial changes in tissue investment without sacrificing mass in other expensive tissues.
Paramyotonia congenita: From clinical diagnosis to in silico protein modeling analysis
Authors: Nurputra Dian K. , Nakagawa Taku , Takeshima Yasuhiro , Harahap Indra S.K. , Morikawa Satoru , Sakaeda Toshiyuki , Lai Poh San , Matsuo Masafumi , Takaoka Yutaka , Nishio Hisahide
Published: April 2012

Background:  Paramyotonia congenita (PMC) is an autosomal dominant disorder characterized by cold‐ or exercise‐induced myotonia. PMC is caused by a mutation in SCN4A which encodes the α‐subunit of the skeletal muscle sodium channel.

Methods:  The patient was an 11‐year‐old Japanese girl who was diagnosed as having PMC. To confirm the diagnosis, an orbital ice‐pack test and blinking tests were performed. Next, to identify the mutation, genetic analysis of SCN4A was performed. Finally, to evaluate the mutation effect on the protein structure, in silico protein modeling analysis was performed.

Results:  Cold‐ and exercise‐induced myotonia was reproduced in the patient with non‐invasive bedside tests: ice‐pack and blinking tests. In the genetic analysis, a missense mutation, c.4343G>A in SCN4A, was identified, which may result in an arginine to histidine substitution at 1448 in the protein sequence (p.Arg1448His). According to the protein modeling analysis, the mutation neutralized the positive electrostatic charge at 1448 in the DIV/S4 segment and disrupted the beginning of the helical structure in the DIV/S3‐S4 linker of the SCN4A protein.

Conclusions:  Diagnostic physical interventions in the patient confirmed the phenotype presentation consistent with PMC, and the in silico protein modeling analysis of p.Arg1448His predicted structural changes which can affect function of the protein. All the data confirmed the diagnosis of PMC in the patient and added to existing literature emphasizing the important role of arginine residue at 1448.
Duration of exposure to cranial vault surgery: associations with neurodevelopment among children with single‐suture craniosynostosis
Authors: Naumann Heather L. , Haberkern Charles M. , Pietila Kristen E. , Birgfeld Craig B. , Starr Jacqueline R. , Kapp‐Simon Kathleen A , Hopper Richard A. , Speltz Matthew L.
Published: April 2012

Objective:  To evaluate associations between neurodevelopment and exposure to surgery and anesthetic agents in children with single‐suture craniosynostosis (SSC).

Background:  Young children with SSC have unexplained neurodevelopmental delays. The possible contributions of factors related to cranial vault surgery – including anesthesia – have not been previously examined.

Methods/materials:  Two anesthesiologists reviewed the surgical records of 89 infants (70 had complete data). Primary exposures were duration of surgery and anesthesia and total duration of inhaled anesthesia (at age 6 months on average). Outcomes were the cognitive and motor scores from the Bayley Scales of Infant Development‐II and language scores from the Preschool Language Scale, 3rd edition, given at age 36 months. Linear regression using robust standard error estimates was performed, adjusting for age at surgery and suture site.

Results:  Anesthesia duration ranged from 155 to 547 min. For every 30‐min increase in anesthesia duration, the estimated average decrease in developmental test scores ranged from 1.1 to 2.9 (P ranged from <0.001 to 0.30). Similar, but weaker findings were observed with surgery duration and total duration of inhaled anesthesia. Inverse relations between exposure amounts and neurodevelopment were stronger in children with nonsagittal synostosis.

Conclusions:  Average neurodevelopmental scores were lower among children experiencing longer surgeries and higher exposures to inhaled anesthesia. These associations may be due to anesthesia exposure, nonspecific effects of surgery, or unmeasured variables that correlate with surgery duration. Further study of potential causal mechanisms is warranted.
An analysis of the relative risk for hypothyroidism in patients with Type 2 diabetes
Authors: Díez J. J. , Iglesias P.
Published: April 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, 1510–1514 (2012)

Aims  We aimed to assess the relative risk for hypothyroidism in patients with Type 2 diabetes.

Methods  In this study, 1112 patients with Type 2 diabetes (58% women, mean age 66.7 years, median duration of diabetes 10 years, 179 with previous history of thyroid disease) and 911 subjects without diabetes were evaluated.

Results  The gender‐, age‐ and weight‐adjusted relative risk (odds ratio) of newly identified hypothyroidism in patients with Type 2 diabetes in comparison with control subjects was 2.81 (1.77–4.48). This odds ratio was significant in patients over 65 years [4.02 (1.95–8.31)], as well as in both men [4.84 (1.58–14.80)] and women [2.60 (1.54–4.38)], in obese patients [2.56 (1.36–4.82)] and non‐obese patients [3.11 (1.56–6.20)] and in individuals with [4.26 (1.73–10.46)] and without [2.93 (1.50–5.75)] thyroid autoantibodies. Logistic regression analysis showed that newly diagnosed hypothyroidism was significantly and directly related not only with thyroid autoimmunity [19.15 (8.73–42.01)], but also with the presence of macroangiopathy [2.85 (1.51–5.35)] and metformin treatment [2.51 (1.28–4.92)].

Conclusions  Our results favour screening for hypothyroidism in patients with Type 2 diabetes older than 65 years, especially in the presence of diabetic macroangiopathy or treatment with metformin.
Glucocorticoid receptor gene polymorphisms are associated with reduced first‐phase glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion and disposition index in women, but not in men
Authors: van Raalte D. H. , van Leeuwen N. , Simonis‐Bik A. M. , Nijpels G. , van Haeften T. W. , Schafer S. A. , Boomsma D. I. , Kramer M. H.H. , J Heine R. , Maassen J. A. , Staiger H. , Machicao F. , Häring H.‐U. , Slagboom P. E. , Willemsen G. , de Geus E. J. , Dekker J. M. , Fritsche A. , Eekhoff E. M. , Diamant M. , ‘t Hart L. M.
Published: April 2012

Diabet. Med. 29, e211–e216 (2012)

Aim  Glucocorticoids are efficacious anti‐inflammatory agents, but, in susceptible individuals, these drugs may induce glucose intolerance and diabetes by affecting β‐cell function and insulin sensitivity. We assessed whether polymorphisms in the glucocorticoid receptor gene NR3C1 associate with measures of β‐cell function and insulin sensitivity derived from hyperglycaemic clamps in subjects with normal or impaired glucose tolerance.

Methods  A cross‐sectional cohort study was conducted in four academic medical centres in the Netherlands and Germany. Four hundred and forty‐nine volunteers (188 men; 261 women) were recruited with normal glucose tolerance (n = 261) and impaired glucose tolerance (n = 188). From 2‐h hyperglycaemic clamps, first‐ and second‐phase glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion, as well as insulin sensitivity index and disposition index, were calculated. All participants were genotyped for the functional NR3C1 polymorphisms N363S (rs6195), BclI (rs41423247), ER22/23EK (rs6189/6190), 9β A/G (rs6198) and ThtIIII (rs10052957). Associations between these polymorphisms and β‐cell function parameters were assessed.

Results  In women, but not in men, the N363S polymorphism was associated with reduced disposition index (P = 1.06 10−4). Also only in women, the ER22/23EK polymorphism was associated with reduced first‐phase glucose‐stimulated insulin secretion (P = 0.011) and disposition index (P = 0.003). The other single‐nucleotide polymorphisms were not associated with β‐cell function. Finally, none of the polymorphisms was related to insulin sensitivity.

Conclusion  The N363S and ER22/23EK polymorphisms of the NR3C1 gene are negatively associated with parameters of β‐cell function in women, but not in men.
Decentralization, Subjective Well‐Being, and the Perception of Institutions
Authors: Diaz‐Serrano Luis , Rodríguez‐Pose Andrés
Published: April 2012

This paper analyses whether the different powers and resources at the disposal of local and regional governments acrossEurope deliver greater satisfaction with political institutions and lead to greater life satisfaction. The analysis uses microdata from the four available waves of theEuropean social survey (2002, 2004, 2006 and 2008), including more than 160,000 observations of individuals living in 29European countries. Our results reveal that fiscal and some forms of political decentralization have a positive and significant effect on the overall subjective well‐being of individuals. However, fiscal decentralization has a different effect on the perception of institutions depending on whether we consider subnational expenditure or revenues. Similarly, the effect of political decentralization on the level of satisfaction with institutions also varies depending on whether the capacity of local governments to influence national politics or to exert authority over their own citizens is considered. The results also show that citizens seem to be more satisfied with the actual capacity of their local governments to deliver than with the general principle that they can have a say on their daily politics and policies.
SYMPOSIUM–CONTEMPORARY AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Campbell Keith O.
Published: April 2012

It seems to me that there are three major aspects of agricultural economics research which we might fruitfully examine in this symposium: (i) the nature of the research which has been and should be undertaken; (ii) the organisation required for effective research; and (iii) the financing of such research.
A STUDY OF RABAUL MARKET
Authors: Epstein T.S.
Published: April 2012

The purpose of the Rabaul Market Survey was threefold: Firstly, to study the price‐forming mechanism, to find out how sellers arrive at a price which by previous observation was found to be almost uniform for the same commodity all over the market on anyone day. Secondly, to study the part the market plays in the over‐all Tolai economy; and thirdly, to find out how the market fits into the whole Gazelle Peninsula economy.

Since I am not aware of any generally accepted technique to study markets, in particular native markets in under‐developed areas, I shall start by outlining the techniques employed in the Rabaul market survey. I shall then go on to discuss the price‐forming mechanism as I found it operating at Rabaul market, which will be followed by an evaluation of the part the market plays in the overall Tolai economy. Finally, I shall try to draw conclusions which emerge from this study.
PRICE COMPETITION IN THE JAPANESE WOOL TEXTILE INDUSTRY
Authors: Byron R.P.
Published: April 2012

Although much work has been done on the long‐term income and substitution effects on wool consumption, little information is available on the short‐term price effects in any wool market. The aim of this paper is to introduce the latter topic for consideration using a model of the Japanese wool textile market.
ECONOMIC GROWTH IN WESTERN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Parker M.L. , Yeow A.G.
Published: April 2012

One measure of the economic activity generated by the primary sector is the extent to which the demand for its products is retained within the sector or is transmitted elsewhere. In this article an analysis is made of these inter‐relationships between industries and between each industry and the trade sector, as they influence the rate and direction of economic growth in Western Australia. Two input‐output models of the Western Australian economy are then used to examine structural changes implied in changes in input coefficients over time.