bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Outcome, Costs and Patient Engagement for Group and Individual CBT for Depression: A Naturalistic Clinical Study
Authors: Brown June S. L , Sellwood Katie , Beecham Jennifer K. , Slade Mike , Andiappan Manoharan , Landau Sabine , Johnson Tracy , Smith Roger
Published: March 2011

Background and Method: This naturalistic study was undertaken in routine settings and compared the clinical effectiveness, costs, treatment preference, attrition and patient satisfaction of Group and Individual CBT. Results: No significant differences were found in depressive and distress symptoms between group and individual CBT at post-treatment and follow-up. Individual CBT was 1.5 times more expensive to provide than Group CBT and the wider costs of other supports were similar between study arms suggesting a cost-effectiveness advantage for Group CBT. Patients preferred individual treatment at baseline but, despite this, there were no between-group differences in attrition or satisfaction. Conclusion: A larger RCT study is needed, but running CBT groups for depression could be considered more frequently by clinicians.
CONSUMPTION AND SAVING OVER THE LIFE CYCLE: HOW IMPORTANT ARE CONSUMER DURABLES?
Authors: Fernández-Villaverde Jesús , Krueger Dirk
Published: March 2011

In this paper we investigate whether a standard life-cycle model in which households purchase nondurable consumption and consumer durables and face idiosyncratic income and mortality risk as well as endogenous borrowing constraints can account for two key patterns of consumption and asset holdings over the life cycle. First, consumption expenditures on both durable and nondurable goods are hump-shaped. Second, young households keep very few liquid assets and hold most of their wealth in consumer durables. In our model durables play a dual role: they both provide consumption services and act as collateral for loans. A plausibly parameterized version of the model predicts that the interaction of consumer durables and endogenous borrowing constraints induces durables accumulation early in life and higher consumption of nondurables and accumulation of financial assets later in the life cycle, of an order of magnitude consistent with observed data.
DO BANK CAPITAL REQUIREMENTS AMPLIFY BUSINESS CYCLES? BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN THEORY AND EMPIRICS
Authors: Aliaga-Díaz Roger , Olivero María Pía
Published: March 2011

In this paper we study the role of bank capital adequacy requirements in the transmission of aggregate productivity shocks. We identify a gap between the empirical and the theoretical work that studies the “credit crunch” effects of these requirements, and how they can work as a financial accelerator that amplifies business cycles. This gap arises because the empirical work faces some difficulties in identifying the effects of capital requirements, whereas the theory still lacks a structural framework that can address these difficulties. We bridge that gap by providing a general equilibrium theoretical framework that allows us to study this financial accelerator. The main insight we obtain is that the “credit crunch” and financial accelerator effects are rather weak, which confirms the findings of existing empirical work. Additionally, by developing a structural framework, we are able to provide an explanation for this result.
Validation of self-reported folic acid use in a multiethnic population: results of the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development study
Authors: Sikkens Jonne J , van Eijsden Manon , Bonsel Gouke J , Cornel Martina C
Published: March 2011

Objective

To assess folic acid supplementation rates and validate the self-reporting of folic acid supplement use among pregnant women in a multiethnic cohort.

Design

Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study.

Setting

Self-reported folic acid supplement use in the Amsterdam Born Children and their Development study cohort was compared with serum folate concentrations using non-parametric trend analysis and linear and logistic regression.

Subjects

A total of 4234 pregnant women of various ethnic backgrounds.

Results

Serum folate levels showed a significant positive linear trend as reported use of folic acid increased (P < 0·001), which was supported by linear regression (r = 0·49). Odds of having low serum folate concentration decreased with reported early start of folic acid intake. Young, multiparous or non-Western women reported less pre-conception folic acid intake. Non-Western women showed lower serum folate concentrations. The overall rate of over-reporting, i.e. serum folate concentrations ≤20 nmol/l while reporting the use of folic acid supplements, was 20·7 %. Women of Surinamese and Moroccan ancestry had higher odds of over-reporting (OR = 2·3; 95 % CI 1·5, 3·5 and OR = 2·3; 95 % CI 1·3, 4·0, respectively). The odds for Surinamese women remained significant after adjusting for the onset of supplement use, parity and age (OR = 1·7; 95 % CI 1·1, 2·6).

Conclusions

Although self-reporting is a valid method for assessing folic acid supplement use in a multiethnic population, some participants do over-report. Surinamese and possibly Moroccan women appear to over-report more often. Rates of supplementation are low, especially in non-Western women. This suggests the need for intensifying current campaigns or perhaps even additional advice to start or continue to use folic acid post-conceptionally.
Reinvestigation of the M Emission Spectrum of Uranium-92
Authors: Dellith Jan , Scheffel Andy , Terborg Ralf , Wendt Michael
Published: March 2011

The M spectrum of the element uranium was reinvestigated by using both high-resolution wavelength dispersive (WD) spectrometry as well as energy dispersive (ED) spectrometry. Thereby we observed relative intensities that deviate from data in the literature. These discrepancies were not only observed for the weak U M lines but also for major lines. By measuring the Mα,β region of the spectrum with a PET crystal in second-order reflection, a sufficient energy resolution was achieved to separate Mα2(M5N6) from Mα1(M5N7). The intensity ratio I(M5N6)/I(M5N7) was determined to be approximately 5%, which is in strong contrast to the data tabulated by White and Johnson [White, E.W. & Johnson, G.G. (1970).X-Ray and Absorption Wavelengths and Two-Theta Tables. ASTM Data Series DS37A, 2nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: American Society for Testing and Materials]. Furthermore M5N7was clearly observed as the strongest of the M lines that disagrees with data presented by Kleykamp [Kleykamp, H. (1981). Wavelengths of the M X-ray spectra of uranium, neptunium, plutonium, and americium.Z Naturforsch36a, 1388–1390], who reported Mβ (M4N6) as the strongest line. Also, after White and Johnson (1970), the line M2N4should be more intense than M3O5by a factor of 5. Both our WD and ED spectra show clearly that M3O5is stronger than M2N4. Altogether, we observed in our WD spectra 26 M lines. In some cases untypical large differences between the line energies given by Bearden [Bearden, J.A. (1967). X-ray wavelengths.Rev Mod Phys39, 78–124] and measured by us were observed.
Comparison of genomic and EST-derived SSR markers in phylogenetic analysis of wheat
Authors: Gadaleta Agata , Giancaspro Angelica , Zacheo Silvana , Nigro Domenica , Giove Stefania Lucia , Colasuonno Pasqualina , Blanco Antonio
Published: March 2011

Microsatellite markers (simple sequence repeats, SSRs) are used for a wide range of crop genetic and breeding applications, including genetic diversity assessment, phylogenetic analysis, genotypic profiling and marker-assisted selection. Genomic SSR (gSSR) have attracted more attention because of abundance in plant genome, reproducibility, high level of polymorphism and codominant inheritance. Recently, the availability of data for expressed sequence tags (EST), has given more emphasis to EST-derived SSRs, which belong to the transcribed regions of DNA, and are expected to be more conserved and have a higher transferability rate across species than gSSR markers. In the present study, several gSSR and EST-SSR markers were investigated for their transferability and level of DNA polymorphism in different ancestral tetraploid and diploid Triticum and Aegilops species. The same gSSR and EST-SSR markers were also evaluated for their applicability in the phylogenetic analysis of wheat. Both gSSR and EST-SSR markers showed differences for the average transferability rate and the number of alleles/locus. Phylogenetic trees based on gSSR and EST-SSR markers were in accordance with phylogenetic relations based on cytogenetic and molecular analyses.
Investigation of genetic diversity in Russian collections of raspberry and blue honeysuckle
Authors: Lamoureux Didier , Sorokin Artem , Lefèvre Isabelle , Alexanian Sergey , Eyzaguirre Pablo , Hausman Jean-François
Published: March 2011

The N.I. Vavilov Institute of Plant Industry (VIR) holds and maintains collections of various crop plants among the largest and oldest worldwide. Among them, small berry trees have gained attention because of their potential for human health. Small berries, usually containing various valuable compounds such as vitamins or antioxidants in significant quantities, could be used for easily improving the human diet. Subsets of VIR collections of raspberry (Rubus idaeus L.) and blue honeysuckle (Lonicera caerulea L.) were investigated for genetic diversity. Ninety-five raspberry accessions were genotyped with eight nuclear simple-sequence repeat (microsatellite) markers. Results indicated a fair level of genetic diversity, but also a structure of three main groups in the collection. Blue honeysuckle accessions were genotyped with five intersimple-sequence repeat markers, yielding more than 1100 polymorphic fragments across the 194 accessions. Statistical analysis of these data showed that the subspecies level was key in explaining blue honeysuckle diversity. This study shows that the collections constitute important resources that could be used for either direct consumption goals or breeding of new cultivars. Results may also be used to establish recommendations for efficient conservation of these genetic resources.
Molecular characterization of the Latvian apple (Malus) genetic resource collection based on SSR markers and scab resistance gene Vf analysis
Authors: Lacis Gunars , Kota Irita , Ikase Laila , Rungis Dainis
Published: March 2011

Apple cultivars are an integral part of the Latvian State Program for Preservation and Sustainable Use of Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. Latvian apple (n = 109) cultivars of local origin, nominated as National Plant Genetic Resources, were analyzed with eight simple sequence repeat (SSR) markers recommended by the European Cooperative Programme for Plant Genetic Resources (ECPGR) Malus/Pyrus working group and a marker for scab resistance gene (Vf). All SSR loci exhibited a high level of polymorphism – 12 to 39 alleles, 18.75 in average, with high observed heterozygosity (Ho) ranging from 0.64 to 0.89 and a mean of 0.78. The gene diversity (polymorphism information content value) varied from 0.79 to 0.90, with an average of 0.86. All cultivars could be distinguished with the tested set of SSR loci, with a high frequency of rare (38%) or unique (26%) alleles. For the Vf gene, all three possible genotypes (VfVf, Vfvf and vfvf) were detected for 1, 6 and 102 varieties, respectively. The analyzed germplasm showed high genetic diversity, particularly landraces, while the modern cultivars clustered mainly into two groups. Cluster analysis did not reveal a clear pattern with well-defined groups, but confirmed some relationships based on known or putative pedigrees, as well as suggesting the possible parentage of some cultivars.
Starch metabolism mutants in barley: A TILLING approach
Authors: Bovina Riccardo , Talamè Valentina , Silvio Salvi , Sanguineti Maria Corinna , Trost Paolo , Sparla Francesca , Tuberosa Roberto
Published: March 2011

In this study, the targetting-induced local lesions in genomes approach was used to identify mutants for genes related to starch metabolism in barley. Starch is the major reserve of plants and serves as primary carbohydrate component in human and livestock diets and has also numerous industrial applications. Mutants for biosynthetic or regulatory genes of starch metabolism often produce starch granules with abnormal morphological and molecular features that could be of interest for technological applications. We report the identification of 29 mutations in five starch-related barley genes (Bmy1,GBSSI,LDA1,SSIandSSII) through the molecular screening of TILLMore, a sodium azide-mutagenized population. Almost all the mutations detected were CG–TA transitions and several (c.60%) implied a change in amino-acid sequence and therefore possible phenotypic effects. Four mutants showed non-sense or splice-junction alterations, which could drastically affect the protein function.
Morpho-agronomic characterization and variation of indigo precursors in woad (Isatis tinctoriaL.) accessions
Authors: Rocha Luís , Carvalho Carlos , Martins Sandra , Braga Fernando , Carnide Valdemar
Published: March 2011

Woad (Isatis tinctoriaL.) was the most important source of natural blue indigo, a pigment used mainly for dyestuff until the beginning of the 20th century, when the increased use of synthetic dyes by the industry lead to a decrease in the interest of natural dyes and to the abandonment of dye crops. The aim of this study was to characterize, according to morphological and agronomical traits, 11 woad accessions from different countries and to quantify the indigo precursor content by high-performance liquid chromatograph-diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). Qualitative traits revealed a low variability and a great variation was observed in quantitative traits. Principal component analysis (PCA) diagrams divided the accessions into four groups, primarily according to their geographic origin. The first three components of the PCA accounted for 76.8% of the total variation. Reciprocal interactions between indigo precursors and fresh leaf weight were compared through genetic diversity, with significant differences in isatan B (0.5–5.1 g/kg), indoxyl (0.3–2.0 g/kg) and residual indigo (0.3–0.5 g/kg). This information, together with genetic data, can be used to assist local farmers to re-introduceIsatisspecies in the European agricultural system, not only indicating the higher indigo yielding genotypes, but also the most suitable harvest time.
Identification of root morphology mutants in barley
Authors: Bovina Riccardo , Talamè Valentina , Ferri Matteo , Tuberosa Roberto , Chmielewska Beata , Szarejko Iwona , Corinna Sanguineti Maria
Published: March 2011

In this study, a forward-genetics analysis was performed on a portion of TILLMore, a chemically mutagenized population of barley cv. ‘Morex’ (http://www.distagenomics.unibo.it/TILLMore/), to identify root morphology alterations by comparison with ‘Morex’ wild-type. For this purpose, a simple paper-roll approach was performed to identify phenotypic variants at the seedling stage. The analysis of c. 1000 M4 families allowed us to identify c. 70 lines with altered root morphology. A more accurate phenotypic characterization of a portion of the mutant lines has been performed using stereomicroscopy and a scanning electron microscopy approach.
Weiterbildung von angehenden Hausärzten an stationären Weiterbildungsstellen: Sicht der Assistenzärzte
Authors: Badertscher  , Schöni  , Berger  , Zoller  , Rosemann
Published: March 2011

Einleitung: Wir erfassten die Situation von angehenden Hausärzten während ihrer stationären Weiterbildungsphase. Material und Methoden: Versand eines semiquantitativen Fragebogens an 535 Assistenzärzte (Innere Medizin und Chirurgie, Kantone Zürich und Bern). Resultate: Rücklauf: 318 Fragebogen (62.4%). 143 (45.0%) der befragten Assistenzärzte ziehen in Betracht, Hausarzt zu werden. Die Entscheidung dafür fällten 58 (40.3%) vor/während des Studiums und 56 (38.9%) während der Weiterbildung. Die Assistenzärzte fühlten sich allgemein von den Vorgesetzten unterstützt, wenn auch nur in der Minderheit der Fälle konkrete Lernziele, Möglichkeiten zur Praxisassistenz oder Hausarzt-Curricula vorhanden waren. Schlussfolgerung: Die vorliegende Studie zeigt, dass die Entscheidung für die Hausarztmedizin zu gleichen Teilen im Studium und in der Weiterbildungsphase fällt. Es gilt, dieses Nachwuchspotential durch attraktive Curricula in der Weiterbildungsphase anzusprechen.
Assimilation of ionosonde profiles into a global ionospheric model
Authors: McNamara Leo F. , Bishop Gregory J. , Welsh Judith A.
Published: March 2011

The Utah State University Global Assimilation of Ionospheric Measurements (GAIM) ionospheric model has been run for multiday intervals in November 2008 and February/March 2009, to investigate the model's ability to assimilate plasma frequency profiles provided by Digisondes. Ionosondes are currently the only type of assimilation data that can provide information on the profile below the peak of the F2 layer. Attention has been focused on the Republic of South Africa, which has four Digisondes and thus offers a unique validation environment. The model has been run for multiple assimilation data scenarios, some of which include GPS total electron content (TEC) observations, in order to provide benchmarks for testing the profile assimilation. The Hermanus Digisonde was set aside to provide the ground truth, in particular the values of foF2, hmF2, and the width of the F2 layer. The values of these characteristics were also tested at the other three ionosonde sites, since the data assimilation procedures do not usually reproduce the assimilated data exactly. It was found that assimilation of ionosonde data did not improve the accuracy of the GAIM values of foF2 at Hermanus (or Grahamstown) beyond that provided by the GPS TEC data, but these TEC‐only errors were already relatively small. However, the ionosonde‐only errors were smaller than the relatively large TEC‐only errors for Louisvale and Madimbo. Assimilation of ionosonde data did not provide any significant increases in the accuracy of the model values of hmF2 and width of the F2 layer.
Selective oxidation catalysis on rhenium-oxide catalysts
Authors: Tada Mizuki
Published: March 2011

Selective oxidation catalyses of rhenium-oxide catalysts of antimony-rhenium mixed oxides and supported rhenium oxides are highlighted in the viewpoints of their structures, catalytic performances, effects of reductive compounds to selective oxidation catalyses.
Amino acid composition of xylem and phloem sap varies in canola genotypes differing in nitrogen- and sulfur-use efficiency
Authors: Balint Tatjana , Rengel Zdenko
Published: March 2011

There is little information on amino acid composition of xylem and phloem sap in canola genotypes differing in use efficiency of nitrogen (N) and/or sulfur (S). Four canola genotypes with either high or low N- and/or S-use efficiency indices were grown in a glasshouse using deficient or adequate N and/or S supply. Xylem sap was obtained by vacuum extraction 46 days after sowing. Phloem sap was collected via bleeding from the petioles of the maturing siliques 120 days after sowing. Among the genotypes, Wesway (N-use efficient) had the highest concentrations of total N, glutamine (235 mmol/L), and asparagine (14 mmol/L) in the xylem sap in the vegetative stage. In contrast, genotype Westar (classified previously as N-use inefficient) had the highest concentrations of most amino acids in the phloem sap among genotypes grown at deficient N supply. Compared with the other tested genotypes, Surpass 402 CL (S-use efficient) had a higher concentration of S, and Karoo (S-use inefficient) had higher concentrations of glutamate and methionine, in the xylem sap in the vegetative stage. Similarly, Karoo had a higher concentration of methionine under adequate S supply and of glutamate under deficient S in the phloem sap at maturity. In conclusion, in canola phloem sap, the most important amino acid for N transport is glutamine, and for S transport methionine and the glutathione-precursor glutamate. It does not appear there is a relationship between differential N- or S-use efficiency of canola genotypes and the concentration of N- or S-transporting amino acids in the phloem sap.
'Adolescence is difficult, some kids are difficult': general practitioner perceptions of working with young people
Authors: Jarrett Carmen , Dadich Ann , Robards Fiona , Bennett David
Published: March 2011

General practitioners (GPs) are the health care providers from which young people are most likely to seek help. However, the rate at which young people access GPs is less than ideal. Four focus groups were conducted with groups of GPs in New South Wales to inform the development of a GP training program on youth health. Analysis of the focus group interviews yielded three themes that describe the context in which GPs work with young people, how GPs see young people and their work with them, and GPs’ expressed training preferences. GPs described working with young people as difficult, which in turn suggests that the self-efficacy of GPs may need to be addressed in training and resource development. GPs also described systemic barriers to working with young people that can be addressed through training, advocacy and policy development.
Walking for fitness: is it enough to maintain both heart and bone health?
Authors: Waddington G. , Dickson T. , Trathen S. , Adams R.
Published: March 2011

Exercising at levels of whole body accelerations exceeding 3.6 g has been shown to have positive effects on cardiovascular fitness, bone density and balance. This pilot research project evaluated the whole body accelerations and cardiovascular challenge provided by selected walks in the Canberra region of Australia to determine if walks could be ranked according to potential level of impact on both cardiovascular fitness and bone health. Nine participants, who described themselves as walking at least 3 km, three times per week, wore a data logging device recording heart rate, acceleration and GPS position while walking three outdoor tracks: (1) the running track of an athletics stadium; (2) on a hill climb path through bushland; and (3) on a route through suburban streets. There was a significant difference (P < 0.05) for heart rate, distribution of whole body accelerations and average walking speed between track 2 and tracks 1 and 3. There was a significant difference for heart rate, distribution of whole body accelerations and average walking speed between the walks. The running track and the suburban walk provide a moderate exercise challenge, with the hill climb walk providing progressively greater vertical height challenge, resulting in an increased cardiovascular exercise challenge. No participant effectively exceeded the threshold for achieving a positive impact on bone density (100 or more accelerations/day >3.6 g) on track 1, and only two of the nine participants intermittently achieved this threshold on tracks 2 and 3.
Aspects of work - life balance of Australian general practitioners: determinants and possible consequences
Authors: Shrestha Durga , Joyce Catherine M.
Published: March 2011

The Australian general practitioner (GP) workforce, especially younger generation GPs and female GPs, increasingly prioritises work–life balance (WLB). Good WLB is associated with decreased interest of medical students in general practice as a speciality choice as well as good health and wellbeing, and decisions of GPs to retire early. Therefore, understanding the role played by different factors in achieving WLB is crucial to ensure a sufficient GP workforce necessary to meet the rising demands of health care. There is a dearth of empirical, quantitative, large, population-based studies assessing the level of WLB in the Australian GP population as well as contributing and consequent factors. Our study fills this identified gap in the current literature. This study aimed to investigate the extent, determinants and possible consequences of WLB of Australian GPs. Data for this study come from the baseline cohort of the Medicine in Australia: Balancing Employment and Life (MABEL) longitudinal, population-level survey. Questionnaires tailored specifically for GPs and GP registrars were sent to all clinically active GPs registered in the Australian Medical Publishing Co. (AMPCo) database (n = 22 137), with a choice of completing either a paper or online version. Data were collected between June and December 2008. STATA (10.0) was used for conducting weighted data analyses. Regression methods were applied for assessing the associations between dependent and independent variables. Of the 3906 GPs (17.6%) who responded, 53% reported that the balance between their personal and professional commitments was about right. Generation X GPs and females reported a better WLB than baby boomers and males respectively. However, those reporting good WLB also worked significantly fewer hours than those reporting poor WLB. GPs who reported good opportunities for leisure activities and perceived that they have good health also reported better WLB. Contrastingly, those reporting difficulty in taking time off when wanted, working unpredictable and longer hours reported poor WLB. Importantly, poor WLB was associated with increased intention to reduce total hours worked by GPs. Several factors relating to family and social circumstances were not significantly associated with WLB of GPs in this study. Only half of the GP workforce reported good WLB. Flexibility of work hours, opportunities for leisure activities and good health of GPs have the potential to enhance the WLB and hence promote greater GP participation in the workforce.
Rural Research Capacity Building Program: capacity building outcomes
Authors: Webster Emma , Thomas Margaret , Ong Narelle , Cutler Linda
Published: March 2011

The Rural Research Capacity Building Program commenced in 2006 with the aim of developing research skills in rural health workers. The program was based on the capacity building principles of workforce development, organisational development, resource allocation, partnership and leadership. Qualitative methods were used to assess capacity building outcomes. A sample of candidates from the 2006 and 2007 cohorts were selected for interview using stratified random sampling and supplemental purposive sampling. Twenty-five individual semi-structured interviews were conducted with candidates, their managers and mentors. Interviews were thematically analysed. The program components of teaching, mentoring and networking led to the development of research skills in candidates undertaking the program. This workforce development resulted in workplace change, particularly where the candidate’s project was ‘close to practice’ and they had management support. The leadership shown and partnerships developed by the program managers enhanced the workforce development and organisational change outcomes. Resources, such as backfill and incidentals, were useful for candidates, but practicalities, such as availability of replacement staff, limited effectiveness. This study showed the value of using a capacity building framework and demonstrated that undertaking research on a topic close to practice positioned candidates to drive change within their organisation.
Families of determinantal schemes
Authors: Kleppe Jan , Miró-Roig Rosa
Published: March 2011

Given integers

a
0

≤

a
1

≤
⋯
≤

a

t
+
c
−
2

a_0\le a_1\le \cdots \le a_{t+c-2}

and

b
1

≤
⋯
≤

b
t

b_1\le \cdots \le b_t

, we denote by

W
(

b
_

;

a
_

)
⊂

Hilb

p

(

P

n

)

W(\underline {b};\underline {a})\subset \textrm {Hilb}^p(\mathbb {P}^{n})

the locus of good determinantal schemes

X
⊂

P

n

X\subset \mathbb {P}^{n}

of codimension

c
c

defined by the maximal minors of a

t
×
(
t
+
c
−
1
)

t\times (t+c-1)

homogeneous matrix with entries homogeneous polynomials of degree

a
j

−

b
i

a_j-b_i

. The goal of this paper is to extend and complete the results given by the authors in an earlier paper and determine under weakened numerical assumptions the dimension of

W
(

b
_

;

a
_

)

W(\underline {b};\underline {a})

as well as whether the closure of

W
(

b
_

;

a
_

)

W(\underline {b};\underline {a})

is a generically smooth irreducible component of

Hilb

p

(

P

n

)

\textrm {Hilb}^p(\mathbb {P}^{n})

.
Proof of the fundamental gap conjecture
Authors: Andrews Ben , Clutterbuck Julie
Published: March 2011

We prove the Fundamental Gap Conjecture, which states that the difference between the first two Dirichlet eigenvalues (the spectral gap) of a Schrödinger operator with convex potential and Dirichlet boundary data on a convex domain is bounded below by the spectral gap on an interval of the same diameter with zero potential. More generally, for an arbitrary smooth potential in higher dimensions, our proof gives both a sharp lower bound for the spectral gap and a sharp modulus of concavity for the logarithm of the first eigenfunction, in terms of the diameter of the domain and a modulus of convexity for the potential.
Elemental variation in the termite fishing of wild chimpanzees (
Pan troglodytes
)
Authors: Sanz Crickette M. , Morgan David B.
Published: March 2011

Chimpanzee tool behaviours vary dramatically in their complexity and extent of geographical distribution. The use of tool sets with specific design features to gather termites extends across a large portion of central Africa. Detailed examination of the composition and uniformity of such complex tool tasks has the potential to advance our understanding of the cognitive capabilities of tool users and processes underlying the maintenance of technological skills. In this study, we examined variation in chimpanzee tool use in termite gathering from video-recorded sequences that were scored to the level of functionally distinct behavioural elements. Overall, we found a high degree of similarity in tool-using techniques exhibited by individuals in this population. The number of elements in each individual's repertoire often exceeded that necessary to accomplish the task, with consistent differences in repertoire sizes between age classes. Adults and subadults had the largest repertoires and more consistently exhibited element strings than younger individuals. Larger repertoires were typically associated with incorporation of rare variants, some of which indicate flexibility and intelligence. These tool using apes aid us in understanding the evolution of technology, including that of our human ancestors, which showed a high degree of uniformity over large spatial scales.
A novel form of oxytocin in New World monkeys
Authors: Lee Alex G. , Cool David R. , Grunwald William C. , Neal Donald E. , Buckmaster Christine L. , Cheng Michelle Y. , Hyde Shellie A. , Lyons David M. , Parker Karen J.
Published: March 2011

Oxytocin is widely believed to be present and structurally identical in all placental mammals. Here, we report that multiple species of New World monkeys possess a novel form of oxytocin, [P8] oxytocin. This mutation arises from a substitution of a leucine to a proline in amino acid position 8. Further analysis of this mutation in
Saimiri sciureus
(squirrel monkey) indicates that [P8] oxytocin is transcribed and translated properly. This mutation is specific to oxytocin, as the peptide sequence for arginine vasopressin, a structurally related nonapeptide, is unaltered. These findings dispel the notion that all placental mammals possess a ‘universal’ oxytocin sequence, and highlight the need for research on the functional significance of this novel nonapeptide in New World monkeys.
High orders of Weyl series for the heat content
Authors: Travěnec Igor , Šamaj Ladislav
Published: March 2011

This article concerns the Weyl series of spectral functions associated with the Dirichlet Laplacian in a
d
-dimensional domain with a smooth boundary. In the case of the heat kernel, Berry and Howls predicted the asymptotic form of the Weyl series characterized by a set of parameters. Here, we concentrate on another spectral function, the (normalized) heat content. We show on several exactly solvable examples that, for even
d
, the same asymptotic formula is valid with different values of the parameters. The considered domains are
d
-dimensional balls and two limiting cases of the elliptic domain with eccentricity
ε
: a slightly deformed disk (
ε
→0) and an extremely prolonged ellipse (
ε
→1). These cases include two-dimensional domains with circular symmetry and those with only one shortest periodic orbit for the classical billiard. We also analyse the heat content for the balls in odd dimensions
d
for which the asymptotic form of the Weyl series changes significantly.
Psidin, a conserved protein that regulates protrusion dynamics and cell migration
Authors: Kim Ji Hoon , Cho Aeri , Yin Hongyan , Schafer Dorothy A. , Mouneimne Ghassan , Simpson Kaylene J. , Nguyen Kim-Vy , Brugge Joan S. , Montell Denise J.
Published: March 2011

Dynamic assembly and disassembly of actin filaments is a major driving force for cell movements. Border cells in the Drosophila ovary provide a simple and genetically tractable model to study the mechanisms regulating cell migration. To identify new genes that regulate cell movement in vivo, we screened lethal mutations on chromosome 3R for defects in border cell migration and identified two alleles of the gene psidin (psid). In vitro, purified Psid protein bound F-actin and inhibited the interaction of tropomyosin with F-actin. In vivo, psid mutations exhibited genetic interactions with the genes encoding tropomyosin and cofilin. Border cells overexpressing Psid together with GFP-actin exhibited altered protrusion/retraction dynamics. Psid knockdown in cultured S2 cells reduced, and Psid overexpression enhanced, lamellipodial dynamics. Knockdown of the human homolog of Psid reduced the speed and directionality of migration in wounded MCF10A breast epithelial monolayers, whereas overexpression of the protein increased migration speed and altered protrusion dynamics in EGF-stimulated cells. These results indicate that Psid is an actin regulatory protein that plays a conserved role in protrusion dynamics and cell migration.
Genetic analysis of complex traits in the emerging Collaborative Cross
Authors: Aylor David L. , Valdar William , Foulds-Mathes Wendy , Buus Ryan J. , Verdugo Ricardo A. , Baric Ralph S. , Ferris Martin T. , Frelinger Jeff A. , Heise Mark , Frieman Matt B. , Gralinski Lisa E. , Bell Timothy A. , Didion John D. , Hua Kunjie , Nehrenberg Derrick L. , Powell Christine L. , Steigerwalt Jill , Xie Yuying , Kelada Samir N.P. , Collins Francis S. , Yang Ivana V. , Schwartz David A. , Branstetter Lisa A. , Chesler Elissa J. , Miller Darla R. , Spence Jason , Liu Eric Yi , McMillan Leonard , Sarkar Abhishek , Wang Jeremy , Wang Wei , Zhang Qi , Broman Karl W. , Korstanje Ron , Durrant Caroline , Mott Richard , Iraqi Fuad A. , Pomp Daniel , Threadgill David , Pardo-Manuel de Villena Fernando , Churchill Gary A.
Published: March 2011

The Collaborative Cross (CC) is a mouse recombinant inbred strain panel that is being developed as a resource for mammalian systems genetics. Here we describe an experiment that uses partially inbred CC lines to evaluate the genetic properties and utility of this emerging resource. Genome-wide analysis of the incipient strains reveals high genetic diversity, balanced allele frequencies, and dense, evenly distributed recombination sites—all ideal qualities for a systems genetics resource. We map discrete, complex, and biomolecular traits and contrast two quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping approaches. Analysis based on inferred haplotypes improves power, reduces false discovery, and provides information to identify and prioritize candidate genes that is unique to multifounder crosses like the CC. The number of expression QTLs discovered here exceeds all previous efforts at eQTL mapping in mice, and we map local eQTL at 1-Mb resolution. We demonstrate that the genetic diversity of the CC, which derives from random mixing of eight founder strains, results in high phenotypic diversity and enhances our ability to map causative loci underlying complex disease-related traits.
ArabidopsisKinesin KP1 Specifically Interacts with VDAC3, a Mitochondrial Protein, and Regulates Respiration during Seed Germination at Low Temperature
Authors: Yang Xue-Yong , Chen Zi-Wei , Xu Tao , Qu Zhe , Pan Xiao-Di , Qin Xing-Hua , Ren Dong-Tao , Liu Guo-Qin
Published: March 2011

The involvement of cytoskeleton-related proteins in regulating mitochondrial respiration has been revealed in mammalian cells. However, it is unclear if there is a relationship between the microtubule-based motor protein kinesin and mitochondrial respiration. In this research, we demonstrate that a plant-specific kinesin, Kinesin-like protein 1 (KP1; At KIN14 h), is involved in respiratory regulation during seed germination at a low temperature. Using in vitro biochemical methods and in vivo transgenic cell observations, we demonstrate that KP1 is able to localize to mitochondria via its tail domain (C terminus) and specifically interacts with a mitochondrial outer membrane protein, voltage-dependent anion channel 3 (VDAC3). Targeting of the KP1-tail to mitochondria is dependent on the presence of VDAC3. When grown at 4°C, KP1 dominant-negative mutants (TAILOEs) and vdac3 mutants exhibited a higher seed germination frequency. All germinating seeds of the kp1 and vdac3 mutants had increased oxygen consumption; the respiration balance between the cytochrome pathway and the alternative oxidase pathway was disrupted, and the ATP level was reduced. We conclude that the plant-specific kinesin, KP1, specifically interacts with VDAC3 on the mitochondrial outer membrane and that both KP1 and VDAC3 regulate aerobic respiration during seed germination at low temperature.
Microbialites of the Neoproterozoic Beck Spring Dolomite, Southern California
Authors: HARWOOD CARA L. , SUMNER DAWN Y.
Published: March 2011

Ancient microbialites reflect interactions between microbial communities and environmental conditions. However, evaluating the relative roles of microbial community processes and environmental influences on microbialite morphology and internal fabric in the rock record can be challenging. The Neoproterozoic Beck Spring Dolomite preserves diverse microbialites, and thus provides an opportunity to explore the factors that influenced microbialite development locally. Stromatolitic, thrombolitic and composite microbialites are abundant in subtidal to upper intertidal carbonates in the Beck Spring Dolomite. Thrombolitic and composite microbialites have not been recognized previously in this unit, but compose much of the newly defined thrombolitic member. Stratigraphic relationships demonstrate that these three types of microbialites formed in close spatial and temporal association in subtidal to intertidal environments. The relative proportions and distributions of stromatolitic and thrombolitic microbialites vary with depositional environment; stromatolitic microbialites dominate in deeper intertidal to subtidal facies, whereas thrombolitic textures are more abundant in upper intertidal facies. Composite microbialites, composed of intermingled clotted and laminated textures, formed in all environments but are most abundant in intertidal facies. The broad environmental distribution of stromatolitic, thrombolitic and composite microbialites and the intermingling of textures suggest that laminated and clotted textures reflect diverse microbial community morphologies rather than environmental variations. Furthermore, the ca 750 Ma age of thrombolitic microbialites in the Beck Spring Dolomite requires that they formed without the influence of calcimicrobes or metazoans colonizing and grazing the microbial mat surface. Thus, these thrombolites provide further evidence that the biostratigraphic distribution of thrombolites cannot be uniquely attributed to evolution of calcifying and grazing organisms in the earliest Cambrian, and that older microbial communities were capable of producing clotted textures.
Receptor‐like protein kinase genes of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Walker John C.
Published: March 2011

The isolation of a maize cDNA clone that encodes a membrane spanning protein kinase related to the self‐incompatibility glycoproteins (SLG) of Brassica and structurally similar to the growth factor receptor tyrosine kinases has recently been reported. Three distinct receptor‐like protein kinase (RLK) cDNA clones from Arabidopsis thaliana have now been identified. Two of the Arabidopsis RLK genes encode SLG‐related protein kinases but have different patterns of expression: one is expressed predominantly in rosettes while the other is expressed primarily in roots. The third RLK gene contains an extracellular domain that consists of 21 leucine‐rich repeats that are analogous to the leucine‐rich repeats found in proteins from humans, flies and yeast. The Arabidopsis leucine‐rich gene is expressed at equivalent levels in roots and rosettes. These results show that there are several genes in higher plants that encode members of the receptor protein kinase superfamily. The structural diversity and differential expression of these genes suggest that each plays a distinct and possibly important role in cellular signaling in plants.
Altered fruit ripening and leaf senescence in tomatoes expressing an antisense ethylene‐forming enzyme transgene
Authors: Picton Steve , Barton Sarah Louise , Bouzayen Mondher , Hamilton Andrew John , Grierson Don
Published: March 2011

Tomato plants in which the synthesis of ethylene‐forming enzyme (EFE) had been inhibited by an anti‐sense gene were used to study the role of ethylene in fruit ripening at the biochemical and molecular level. A reduction in total lycopene accumulation was observed in EFE‐antisense fruit ripened both on and off the plant. The rate of over‐ripening and fruit spoilage was also reduced in the EFE‐antisense fruit. The degree of inhibition of ripening was shown to be dependent upon the stage of development at which the fruit were detached from the plant. The effects on ripening in EFE‐antisense fruit were much more pronounced when fruit were detached from the vine before the onset of colour change, and were associated with changes in the level of accumulation of mRNAs homologous to a number of previously characterized ripening‐related cDNAs. The retarded ripening of detached EFE‐antisense fruit could be partially restored by ethylene treatment. In addition to changes observed in ripening fruit, a temporal delay in the onset of foliar senescence was observed in EFE‐antisense plants, indicating that the physiological effects of the EFE‐antisense gene, and the associated reduction in ethylene evolution, are not confined specifically to fruit ripening.
Provoking allergens and treatment of anaphylaxis in children and adolescents – data from the anaphylaxis registry of German‐speaking countries
Authors: Hompes Stephanie , Köhli Alice , Nemat Katja , Scherer Kathrin , Lange Lars , Rueff Franziska , Rietschel Ernst , Reese Thomas , Szepfalusi Zsolt , Schwerk Nicolaus , Beyer Kirsten , Hawranek Thomas , Niggemann Bodo , Worm Margitta
Published: March 2011

To cite this article: Hompes S, Köhli A, Nemat K, Scherer K, Lange L, Rueff F, Rietschel E, Reese T, Szepfalusi Z, Schwerk N, Beyer K, Hawranek T, Niggemann B, Worm M. Provoking allergens and treatment of anaphylaxis in children and adolescents – data from the anaphylaxis registry of German‐speaking countries. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2011; 22: 568–574.

Anaphylaxis is the most severe reaction of an IgE‐mediated hypersensitivity. Data about affected patients may help to improve our knowledge of anaphylaxis and its medical care. We analysed data from the anaphylaxis registry of German speaking countries with regard to the provoking allergens and treatment modalities of anaphylaxis in children and adolescents.

Inclusion criteria were severe systemic allergic reactions with concomitant pulmonary and/or cardiovascular symptoms. The data are collected by a password‐controlled online‐questionnaire. For this analysis, data of 197 reported anaphylactic reactions from children and adolescents registered between 2006 and 2009 were included.

The data show that within the registered cases the most frequently affected organ systems for children and adolescents were the skin (89%) and the respiratory tract (87%) followed by symptoms of the cardiovascular system (47%) and the gastrointestinal tract (43%). The most frequent elicitors were food allergens accounting for 58% of cases, followed by insect venom (24%) and drugs (8%). The most frequent food allergens were peanuts followed by tree nuts and animal related food products. In 18% aggravating factors such as physical exercise were noted by the clinicians. 26% of the analysed patients had experienced more than one reaction. The data regarding the emergency treatment show that antihistamines (87%) and corticosteroids (85%) were often used but that adrenaline was rarely used (22% of the registered cases).

Taken together these data show that the analysis of anaphylaxis by registration of affected individuals can provide data about provoking allergens and treatment measures but also suggest the impact of aggravating factors on anaphylactic reactions. The under‐represented usage of adrenaline indicates the need of educational measures for patients and their physicians.
Jatropha platyphylla kernel meal as feed ingredient for Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus L.): growth, nutrient utilization and blood parameters
Authors: Akinleye A. O. , Kumar V. , Makkar H. P. S. , Angulo‐Escalante M. A. , Becker K.
Published: March 2011

Jatropha platyphylla is a multipurpose and drought‐resistant shrub, available in Mexico, locally known as ‘sangregrado’ and belonging to the family Euphorbiaceae. Its seeds are rich in oil and protein and do not contain the main toxin, phorbol esters present in other Jatropha species. Jatropha platyphylla kernel meal (JPKM) obtained after oil extraction contained 70–75% crude protein (CP); however, it contained phytate, lectin and trypsin‐inhibitor. The levels of essential amino acids (except lysine) were higher in JPKM than in soybean meal (SBM). Using Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) fingerlings a 12‐week experiment was conducted to evaluate the nutritional quality of the heated JPKM and compare with that of SBM and fishmeal. Fingerlings (15 fish; average weight 13.7 ± 0.21 g) were randomly distributed in three treatment groups with five replicates. Fish were fed three isonitrogenous diets (CP 36%): control diet containing fishmeal‐based protein and two other diets replacing 62.5% fishmeal protein with JPKM (Jatropha group) and SBM (Soybean group). The growth performance, feed conversion ratio, protein efficiency ratio, protein productive and energy retention did not differ significantly among the three groups. A lower apparent lipid conversion was observed in the plant protein‐fed group than in the control group. RBC count, haematocrit and blood glucose contents were higher in plant‐protein fed groups than control group. Other haematological parameters (WBC count, haemoglobin, mean cell volume: calcium and sodium ions, total bilirubin and urea–nitrogen in the blood) and metabolic enzymes (alkaline phosphatase and alanine transaminase) activities in blood did not differ significantly among the three groups. The results from the present study established that JPKM is a promising and good quality protein source for Nile tilapia feed.