bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mesophyllum erubescens (Corallinales, Rhodophyta)—so many species in one epithet
Authors: Sissini Marina N. , Oliveira Mariana C. , Gabrielson Paul W. , Robinson Néstor M. , Okolodkov Yuri B. , Riosmena-Rodríguez Rafael , Horta Paulo A.
Published: December 2014

The name Mesophyllum erubescens has been applied to protuberant rhodolith specimens which sometimes occur abundantly, as well as to encrusting specimens in tropical and temperate waters in the Western Pacific, Indian and Western Atlantic Oceans. A DNA sequence, representing about 20% of the rbcL gene, was obtained from the 140 year old holotype specimen collected in the Fernando de Noronha Archipelago by the Challenger Expedition. This sequence was identical to field-collected topotype specimens as well as to specimens ranging south along the coast of Brazil. Sequences for psbA from these same Brazilian specimens and specimens from the east coast of Mexico were identical or differed by 1 base pair. In contrast, specimens called M. erubescens based on morpho-anatomical characters in the Pacific Ocean differed from Western Atlantic Ocean specimens by 2.5–13.1%, indicating that these represent numerous distinct species. All reports of non-geniculate coralline species said to be widely distributed across different oceans or in different biogeographic provinces based on morpho-anatomical characters need to be verified by DNA sequences.
Diversity and Distribution of articulated Coralline algae (Rhodophyta, Corallinales) of the Atlantic coast of Mexico
Authors: Mendoza González A. Catalina , Mateo-Cid Luz Elena , García López Deisy Yazmin , Acosta-Calderón Julio Adulfo
Published: December 2014

This paper provides the first critical revision of the articulated coralline algae Amphiroa and Jania along the Atlantic coast of Mexico and Mexican Caribbean, based on morphological and anatomical characters of numerous specimens both genera. We found six species of Amphiroa, including one new record for this region: Amphiroa valonioides. In the other hand, Amphiroa fragilissima and A. rigida have the wider distribution along the Atlantic coast of Mexico. Jania to encompass six species, J. capillacea and J. cubensis are the best represented along the Atlantic coast of Mexico. Male and female reproductive structures of several species are recorded for first time in the study area. The distribution of A. valonioides and A. vanbosseae seems to be the warm temperate and tropical coast of the Atlantic and Pacific Ocean. Macro and microscopic characteristics and relevant photographs and descriptions are provided for each species. Data on the distribution of taxa along the Atlantic and Caribbean coast of Mexico are included.
Systematic position of Paulsilvella in the Lithophylloideae (Corallinaceae, Rhodophyta) confirmed by molecular data
Authors: Torrano-Silva Beatriz Nogueira , Riosmena-Rodríguez Rafael , Oliveira Mariana Cabral de
Published: December 2014

New specimens of Paulsilvella huveorum were collected in Brazil at Baía de Ilha Grande, Rio de Janeiro, and Sebastião Gomes reef, Bahia. This new collections represent a relevant range extension and new hosts for the species (Amphiroa beauvoisii, Jania cubensis and non-identified Hydrozoa and Bryozoa) and enabled the first DNA amplifications for Paulsilvella. The systematic position of Pausilvella in the subfamily Lithophylloideae is confirmed based on SSU rDNA, psbA and rbcL molecular markers. Morphologically and anatomically the specimens are similar to the original description in where basal dimerous thalli with monomeric erect branches characterize the genus. But, the analyzed carposporangial conceptacles express the roof position varying from flush or above the thallus surface, the chambers always buried within tiers of columnar cells, suggesting that this feature is variable within the species and might also suggest that P. huveorum and the fossil P. antiqua should be considered as potential synonyms. We do not want to suggest this clump waiting for more collections from different geographical areas in where new data may support our idea. Our results strongly suggest that the subfamily Lithophylloideae urgently needs to be reviewed to delimit genera based on molecular and morphological analysis because monomeric and dimeric thalli organization have evolved several times in the group.
The making of world’s largest journal in systematic botany
Authors: ZHANG ZHI-QIANG , CHRISTENHUSZ MAARTEN J.M. , ESSER HANS-JOACHIM , CHASE MARK W. , VORONTSOVA MARIA S. , LINDON HEATHER , MONRO ALEXANDRE , Lumbsch H. Thorsten
Published: December 2014

Since its launch in 2009 Phytotaxa has grown to be the leading journal in taxonomic botany, publishing the greatest number of articles, pages, and new names. It has replaced Taxon as the top journal by volume and total citation to current papers but not impact factor. More than just a journal, Phytotaxa has made it easier for authors to publish in botanical taxonomy and has improved access to publication for disadvantaged authors. This is reflected in it gaining ‘market share’ from biodiversity-rich BRIC countries, which have invested in their taxonomic capacity. It could also reflect a shift away from Europe & US as main descriptors of plant diversity. We believe that Phytotaxa has been well accepted by the taxonomic community because it is free at point of publication (barrier-free to authors of all income brackets), flexible (unlimited issues and pages) and rapidly indexed with an impact factor that is relatively high for a taxonomic journal. Phytotaxa thus meets the needs of the broadest group of taxonomists who survive based on publication number and impact factor, and who do not have access to funds to support open-access publication. We suggest that it is eminently feasible to fully describe and typify all plant diversity using the Linnean system, but that do so in a timely manner and so meet Society’s needs in the face of the mass-extinction of biodiversity and climate change. Phytotaxa will work with all taxonomists to continue to promote taxonomy as a scientific discipline.
Taxonomy and conservation of the Brazilian extra-Amazonian species of Philodendron subg. Pteromischum (Araceae)
Authors: Barbosa Juliana Ferreira , Sakuragui Cassia Monica
Published: December 2014

Philodendron subg. Pteromischum is one of the three Philodendron subgenera and most diverse within Amazonia. It can be recognised by anisophyllous sympodial growth, long sheaths, short petiole, gynoecia with broad shallow compitum, and numerous ovules per locule. The taxonomic revision for Brazilian extra-Amazonian species was based on the analysis of 590 herbaria specimens. Nine Brazilian extra-Amazonian Pteromischum species were recognized, five names previously recognised for the studied area were treated as synonyms. All the species were described and mapped. An identification key and comments on taxonomy, nomenclature, conservation, phenology were provided for each species. The concepts of leaf-sheath and petiole are also clarified.
Three new species of Begonia (sect. Petermannia, Begoniaceae ) from Sarawak, Borneo
Authors: Lin Che-Wei , Chung Shih-Wen , Peng Ching-I
Published: December 2014

Borneo is a hotspot for Begonia. About 140 species of Begonia have been described from Borneo, 75 of which occur in Sarawak. In this study we report the discovery of three undescribed species of Begonia, namely B. amidalae, B. darthvaderiana and B. anserina from southwestern Sarawak. They are assignable to sect. Petermannia based on the cane-like habit, protogynous inflorescence and pistillate flowers with three locules each with two placentas. The new species B. amidalae somewhat resembles B. subisensis K.G. Pearce, but is sharply distinct by the leaf shape, tepal color, much fewer stamens and smaller pistillate tepals and fruits. Begonia darthvaderiana is similar to B. chlorosticta Sands differing in the leaf shape, orientation and maculation, much fewer stamens, color of staminate tepals as well as shape of fruit wings. Begonia anserina approaches B. pleioclada Irmsch. in the sympodial branching, differing in being a much taller plant with shorter inflorescence and larger fruits.
Interannual Variation of the South Asian High and Its Relation with Indian and East Asian Summer Monsoon Rainfall
Authors: Wei Wei , Zhang Renhe , Wen Min , Kim Baek-Jo , Nam Jae-Cheol
Published: December 2014

A diagnostic analysis reveals that on the interannual time scale the southeast–northwest movement is a dominant feature of the South Asian high (SAH), and it is closely related to the Indian and East Asian summer monsoon rainfall. The southeastward (northwestward) shift of the SAH is closely related to less (more) Indian summer monsoon rainfall and more (less) rainfall in the Yangtze River valley (YRV) over the East Asian summer monsoon region. An anomalous AGCM is utilized to examine the effect of latent heat anomalies associated with the Asian summer monsoon rainfall on the SAH. The negative latent heat anomalies over the northern Indian Subcontinent associated with a weak Indian summer monsoon stimulates an anomalous cyclone to its northwest and an anticyclone to its northeast over the eastern Tibetan Plateau and eastern China in the upper troposphere, which is responsible for the east–west shift of the SAH and more rainfall in the YRV. The positive latent heat release associated with rainfall anomalies in the YRV excites a southward-located anticyclone over eastern China, exerting a feedback effect on the SAH and leading to a southeast–northwest shift of the SAH.
Summertime Moisture Transport to the Southern South American Altiplano: Constraints from In Situ Measurements of Water Vapor Isotopic Composition
Authors: Galewsky Joseph , Samuels-Crow Kimberly
Published: December 2014

Austral summer transport of water vapor to the southern South American Altiplano is investigated using in situ measurements of water vapor isotopic composition collected from 1 November 2012 to 10 February 2013 on the Chajnantor Plateau in the Chilean Andes. Onset of the wet season in December was associated with an increase in mixing ratios from an average of 1500 ppmv during the winter dry season to 5400 ppmv in early December. Water vapor isotopes δD and δ18O increased from dry season averages of −235‰ and −31‰, respectively, to wet season averages of −142‰ and −17‰, reaching as high as −70‰ and −17‰, respectively. The highest water vapor δ values were close to those measured in coastal settings, suggesting little condensation during transport to the site. About 5% of the wet season data have δ values that are lower than expected for Rayleigh distillation and are associated with high relative humidity (>75%), easterly winds, and periods of low outgoing longwave radiation over the Altiplano, consistent with moistening by deep convection. The remainder of the data have δ values that are greater than expected for Rayleigh distillation, up to 250‰ above the Rayleigh curve. These data are consistent with mixing between very dry air and moist air from the boundary layer. The data show intraseasonal variability coherently linked to the position of the Bolivian high, with moist air associated with a southward displacement in the Bolivian high. The humidity over the southern Altiplano during the wet season reflects a balance among advective drying, advective moistening with little condensation, and convective moistening.
An Objective Technique for Detecting Large-Scale Tilted Ridges and Troughs and Its Application to an East Asian Cold Event
Authors: Bueh Cholaw , Xie Zuowei
Published: December 2014

The present study identified the large-scale tilted ridge and trough (LSTR and LSTT, respectively) axes of the midtropospheric circulation over mid- and high-latitude regions using an objective identification technique that has not previously been applied. In this method, the identification procedure classified contours of 500-hPa height (Z500) fields into three types: the circumpolar wavy contour, the circumpolar contour containing the meridionally overturned (or wave breaking) part, and the locally closed contour. The ridge and trough points were defined on these three types of contours and, subsequently, the ridge or trough axes were identified after connecting successively the nearest ridge or trough points of the neighboring contours under a minimum distance constraint. The performance of the identification method was tested in the daily Z500 fields during 15 November 2011–15 March 2012. The hit rate, false-alarm ratio, and threat score of the method in test reveal that it performs well with a reasonably good skill. An examination of the wave-breaking features during the same period also suggests that the method performs well in the identification of LSTRs and LSTTs for the meridionally overturned parts of the Z500 contours. This objective technique was also applied to an extensive and persistent cold event over East Asia. Results show that the horizontal extent of the Siberian high corresponds well with the zonal extents of the identified LSTR and LSTT. The identification method in the present study might be useful for identifying the key circulation systems associated with extensive and persistent cold air outbreaks during winter.
The Marital Experiences of Couples Who Include a Child With Autism
Authors: Marciano Susan T. , Drasgow Erik , Carlson Ryan G.
Published: December 2014

We used a phenomenological qualitative approach to collect and analyze data from 10 married couples, who had a child with autism to investigate their perceptions of marital quality and to explore the factors that contribute to marital longevity. We investigated how participants described and interpreted their experience by using pattern coding to analyze the data. Several themes emerged from the data and indicated, in general, that having a child with autism has broad effects on relationship experiences, including some partners feeling more bonded over the care of their child. We discuss implications for clinicians, limitations, and potential future directions for additional research.
Parenting and Child Mental Health
Authors: Achtergarde Sandra , Postert Christian , Wessing Ida , Romer Georg , Müller Jörg M.
Published: December 2014

Parenting behavior has a significant influence on children’s mental health and may contribute to the development of emotional or behavior problems in children. Differences in parenting behavior have been related to parent personality and to child temperament, although the direction of causality is not yet clear. This review seeks to provide an overview of the relation between child mental health, parenting, parent personality, and child temperament with a special focus on the interaction effects of parent personality on child temperament. Empirical evidence suggested that child and parent characteristics both—additively and interactively—contribute to parenting behavior. There were only a few studies that explicitly considered interaction effects, and most of them focused on negative effects. More research is necessary to investigate the interaction of parent personality and child temperament and the related child outcomes further. Counseling, family therapy, and other parenting-oriented interventions may benefit from individual adaptations to both parental personality and child temperament.
Induction of Rhabdomyosarcoma by Embedded Military-Grade Tungsten/Nickel/Cobalt Not by Tungsten/Nickel/Iron in the B6C3F1 Mouse
Authors: Emond Christy A. , Vergara Vernieda B. , Lombardini Eric D. , Mog Steven R. , Kalinich John F.
Published: December 2014

Continued improvements in the ballistic properties of military munitions have led to metal formulations for which little are known about the long-term health effects. Previously we have shown that a military-grade tungsten alloy comprised of tungsten, nickel, and cobalt, when embedded into the leg muscle of F344 rats to simulate a fragment wound, induces highly aggressive metastatic rhabdomyosarcomas. An important follow-up when assessing a compound’s carcinogenic potential is to test it in a second rodent species. In this study, we assessed the health effects of embedded fragments of 2 military-grade tungsten alloys, tungsten/nickel/cobalt and tungsten/nickel/iron, in the B6C3F1 mouse. Implantation of tungsten/nickel/cobalt pellets into the quadriceps muscle resulted in the formation of a rhabdomyosarcoma around the pellet. Conversely, implantation of tungsten/nickel/iron did not result in tumor formation. Unlike what was seen in the rat model, the tumors induced by the tungsten/nickel/cobalt did not exhibit aggressive growth patterns and did not metastasize.
Toca-1 is suppressed by p53 to limit breast cancer cell invasion and tumor metastasis
Authors: Chander Harish , Brien Colin D , Truesdell Peter , Watt Kathleen , Meens Jalna , Schick Colleen , Germain Doris , Craig Andrew WB
Published: December 2014

Introduction

Transducer of Cdc42-dependent actin assembly-1 (Toca-1) recruits actin regulatory proteins to invadopodia, and promotes breast tumor metastasis. Since metastatic breast tumors frequently harbor mutations in the tumor suppressor p53, we tested whether p53 regulates Toca-1 expression.

Methods

Normal mammary epithelial cells (HBL-100, MCF10A) and breast cancer cell lines expressing wild-type (WT) p53 (DU4475, MTLn3) were treated with camptothecin or Nutlin-3 to stabilize p53 to test effects on Toca-1 mRNA and protein levels. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP) assays were performed to identify p53 binding site in Toca-1 gene. Stable silencing of p53 and Toca-1 were performed in MTLn3 cells to test effects on invadopodia and cell invasion in vitro, and tumor metastasis in vivo.

Results

We observed that breast cancer cell lines with mutant p53 have high levels of Toca-1 compared to those with WT p53. Stabilization of WT p53 led to further reduction in Toca-1 mRNA and protein levels in normal breast epithelial cells and breast cancer cells. ChIP assays revealed p53 binding within intron 2 of toca1, and reduced histone acetylation within its promoter region upon p53 upregulation or activation. Stable silencing of WT p53 in MTLn3 cells led to increased extracellular matrix degradation and cell invasion compared to control cells. Interestingly, the combined silencing of p53 and Toca-1 led to a partial rescue of these effects of p53 silencing in vitro and reduced lung metastases in mice. In human breast tumors, Toca-1 levels were high in subtypes with frequent p53 mutations, and high Toca-1 transcript levels correlated with increased risk of relapse.

Conclusions

Based on these findings, we conclude that loss of p53 tumor suppressor function in breast cancers leads to upregulation of Toca-1, and results in enhanced risk of developing metastatic disease.
Prioritizing causal disease genes using unbiased genomic features
Authors: Deo Rahul C , Musso Gabriel , Tasan Murat , Tang Paul , Poon Annie , Yuan Christiana , Felix Janine F , Vasan Ramachandran S , Beroukhim Rameen , De Marco Teresa , Kwok Pui-Yan , MacRae Calum A , Roth Frederick P
Published: December 2014

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death in the developed world. Human genetic studies, including genome-wide sequencing and SNP-array approaches, promise to reveal disease genes and mechanisms representing new therapeutic targets. In practice, however, identification of the actual genes contributing to disease pathogenesis has lagged behind identification of associated loci, thus limiting the clinical benefits.

Results

To aid in localizing causal genes, we develop a machine learning approach, Objective Prioritization for Enhanced Novelty (OPEN), which quantitatively prioritizes gene-disease associations based on a diverse group of genomic features. This approach uses only unbiased predictive features and thus is not hampered by a preference towards previously well-characterized genes. We demonstrate success in identifying genetic determinants for CVD-related traits, including cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and conduction system and cardiomyopathy phenotypes. Using OPEN, we prioritize genes, including FLNC, for association with increased left ventricular diameter, which is a defining feature of a prevalent cardiovascular disorder, dilated cardiomyopathy or DCM. Using a zebrafish model, we experimentally validate FLNC and identify a novel FLNC splice-site mutation in a patient with severe DCM.

Conclusion

Our approach stands to assist interpretation of large-scale genetic studies without compromising their fundamentally unbiased nature.
Thermogravimetric investigation of sol–gel microspheres doped with aqueous glycerol
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Pantaleo Giuseppe , La Mattina Rosa , Pagliaro Mario
Published: December 2014

Background

Silica-based microspheres encapsulating aqueous glycerol are promising curing agents affording the formation of better one-component polyurethane foams, namely thermoset polymers cured by atmospheric moisture that are widely and increasingly utilized in the construction industry. The use of renewable, non toxic glycerol from biodiesel and oleochemicals industry to cure PU foams in place of traditionally employed oil-derived mono and diethylene glycols is both technically and environmentally beneficial. The higher amount of hydroxyl groups in glycerol compared to both mono- and diethylene glycol results in considerably lower percentage of free monomeric methylene diphenyl diisocyanate (MDI) and higher crosslinking density of the cured foam.

Results

We investigate by thermogravimetric analysis the nature and amount of the microencapsulated species in sol–gel silica and organosilica microspheres encapsulating aqueous glycerol. Along with a percentage of glycerol in weight up to 35%, the microspheres contain about 5 wt% water and 4 wt% entrapped surfactant.

Conclusions

The investigation shows the efficacy of the surfactant-assisted sol–gel microencapsulation aqueous glycerol in silica as well as in methyl-silica particles at least until 10% degree of methylation. The results are relevant to the practical development of functional materials that can be used to cure better and greener polyurethane foams largely employed as coatings, adhesives and sealants in many industrial sectors.
Rock properties of smectite- and ooze-rich claystones
Authors: Øygarden Bente , Løseth Helge , Njerve Sigurd
Published: December 2014

Parameters measured by well logs define rock properties and seismic reflections at lithology interfaces. Parameters from standard embedding claystones are normally used when calculating the top sand amplitude variation with offset (AVO) response, but this might give erroneous results when the real claystone rock properties deviate from the standard. Using cuttings and high-quality wireline logs from well 34/8-A-33 H above the Visund field in the northern North Sea, we evaluated rock properties of the Pleistocene glaciomarine claystones, Lower Miocene and Upper Oligocene oozy claystones, Lower Oligocene and Eocene smectite-rich claystones, and two interbedded sands. Glaciomarine claystones fit best with the Greenberg-Castagna equation and have the highest measured velocities even though they are the shallowest buried sediments. Environmental scanning electron microscope analysis proves the Lower Miocene and Upper Oligocene claystones to be oozy. The amount of low-density oozy material causes significant shifts in the log curves and makes the ooze-rich claystones plot far off the trend given by the Greenberg-Castagna equation. We, therefore, developed a new equation for S-wave velocity prediction for ooze-rich claystones with average densities between [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]. The [Formula: see text] ratios increase with depth in the Lower Oligocene and Eocene claystones of the Hordaland Group, and we interpreted this to reflect a downward increase in the amount of smectite, which existence was proven by X-ray diffraction analysis. We modeled how the seismic response at the top of a sand changes with embedding claystone type, saturation fluid, and offset. In glaciomarine claystones, the top of a brine-saturated sand corresponds to a negative trough reflection, in ooze-rich claystones to a positive peak reflection, and in smectite-rich claystones the reflection amplitude is close to zero. The predicted AVO response of sands in oozy claystones is highly dependent on whether the measured or calculated S-wave velocity has been used in the modeling.
Using Mass Spectrometry to Detect, Differentiate, and Semiquantitate Closely Related Peptide Hormones in Complex Milieu: Measurement of IGF-II and Vesiculin
Authors: Lee Kate L. , Middleditch Martin J. , Williams Geoffrey M. , Brimble Margaret A. , Cooper Garth J. S.
Published: December 2014

The search for an islet β-cell growth factor has been a key objective in recent diabetes research, because the ability to regenerate and/or protect the functioning β-cell population in patients could result in a great advancement for diabetes treatment. IGF-I and IGF-II are known to play crucial roles in fetal growth and prenatal development, and there is growing evidence that IGF-II increases β-cell proliferation and survival in vitro and in vivo. A search for the source of IGF-II–like immunoreactivity in isolated β-cell secretory granules from the murine cell line βTC6-F7 revealed a novel 2-chain IGF-II–derived peptide, which we named vesiculin and which has been shown to be a full insulin agonist. Here, we present a liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry method that enables selective detection and semiquantitation of the highly related IGF-II and vesiculin molecules. We have used this method to measure these 2 peptides in conditioned media from 2 β-cell lines, produced under increasing glucose concentrations. This technique detected both IGF-II and vesiculin in media conditioned by MIN6 and βTC6-F7 cells at levels in the range of 0 to 6 μM (total insulin, 80–450 μM) and revealed a glucose-stimulated increase in insulin, IGF-II, and vesiculin. IGF-II was detected in adult human and neonatal mouse serum in high levels, but vesiculin was not present. The methodology we present herein has utility for detecting and differentiating active peptides that are highly related and of low abundance.
Exposure of Female Macaques to Western-Style Diet With or Without Chronic T In Vivo Alters Secondary Follicle Function During Encapsulated 3-Dimensional Culture
Authors: Xu Jing , McGee Whitney K. , Bishop Cecily V. , Park Byung S. , Cameron Judy L. , Zelinski Mary B. , Stouffer Richard L.
Published: December 2014

Increased adiposity and hyperandrogenemia alter reproductive parameters in both animal models and women, but their effects on preantral follicles in the ovary remain unknown. We recently reported that Western-style diet (WSD) consumption over 1 year, with or without chronic exposure to elevated circulating T, increased the body fat percentage, elicited insulin resistance, suppressed estradiol and progesterone production, as well as altered the numbers, size, and dynamics of antral follicles in the ovary during the menstrual cycle in female macaques. Therefore, experiments were designed to compare the WSD and WSD+T effects to age-matched controls on the survival, growth, and function of isolated secondary follicles during 5 weeks of encapsulated 3-dimensional culture. Follicle survival significantly declined in the WSD and WSD+T groups compared with the control (CTRL) group. Although media progesterone levels were comparable among groups, androstenedione and estradiol levels were markedly reduced in the WSD and WSD+T groups compared with the CTRL group at week 5. Anti-Müllerian hormone levels peaked at week 3 and were lower in the WSD+T group compared with the WSD or CTRL group. Vascular endothelial growth factor levels also decreased at week 5 in the WSD+T group compared with the WSD or CTRL group. After human chorionic gonadotropin exposure, only antral follicles developed from the CTRL group yielded metaphase II oocytes. Thus, WSD with or without T exposure affects the cohort of secondary follicles in vivo, suppressing their subsequent survival, production of steroid hormones and local factors, as well as oocyte maturation in vitro.
Pituitary and Brain Dopamine D2 Receptors Regulate Liver Gene Sexual Dimorphism
Authors: Ramirez Maria Cecilia , Ornstein Ana Maria , Luque Guillermina Maria , Perez Millan Maria Ines , Garcia-Tornadu Isabel , Rubinstein Marcelo , Becu-Villalobos Damasia
Published: December 2014

Liver sexual gene dimorphism, which depends mainly on specific patterns of GH secretion, may underlie differential susceptibility to some liver diseases. Because GH and prolactin secretion are regulated by dopaminergic pathways, we studied the participation of brain and lactotrope dopamine 2 receptors (D2Rs) on liver gene sexual dimorphism, to explore a link between the brain and liver gene expression. We used global D2R knockout mice (Drd2−/−) and conducted a functional dissection strategy based on cell-specific Drd2 inactivation in neurons (neuroDrd2KO) or pituitary lactotropes. Disruption of neuronal D2Rs (which impaired the GH axis) decreased most of male or female-predominant class I liver genes and increased female–predominant class II genes in males, consistent with the positive (class I) or negative (class II) regulation of these genes by GH. Notably, sexual dimorphism was lost for class I and II genes in neuroDrd2KO mice. Disruption of lactotrope D2Rs did not modify class I or II genes in either sex, because GH axis was preserved. But surprisingly, 1 class II gene (Prlr) and female-predominant class I genes were markedly up-regulated in lacDrd2KO females, pointing to direct or indirect effects of prolactin in the regulation of selected female-predominant liver genes. This suggestion was strengthened in the hyperprolactinemic Drd2−/− female mouse, in which increased expression of the same 4 liver genes was observed, despite a decreased GH axis. We hereby demonstrate endocrine-mediated D2R actions on sexual dimorphic liver gene expression, which may be relevant during chronic dopaminergic medications in psychiatric disease.
Qualia as social effects of minds
Authors: Bouten Sheila , Debruille J. Bruno
Published: December 2014

Qualia, the individual instances of subjective conscious experience, are private events. However, in everyday life, we assume qualia of others and their perceptual worlds, to be similar to ours. One way this similarity is possible is if qualia of others somehow contribute to the production of qualia by our own brain and vice versa. To test this hypothesis, we focused on the mean voltages of event-related brain potentials (ERPs) in the time-window of the P600 component, whose amplitude correlates positively with conscious awareness. These ERPs were elicited by stimuli of the international affective picture system in 16 pairs of friends, siblings or couples going side by side through hyperscanning without having to interact. Each member of each pair faced one half of the screen and could not see what the other member was presented with on the other half. One stimulus occurred on each half simultaneously. The sameness of these two stimuli was manipulated as well as the participants’ belief in that sameness. ERPs were more negative over left frontal sites and P600 amplitudes were minimal at midline sites when the two stimuli were, and were believed to be, different, suggesting that this belief could filter others’ qualia. ERPs were less negative over left frontal sites and midline P600s were a bit larger when the two stimuli were, and were believed to be, the same, suggesting some mutual enrichment of the content of awareness in conditions of real and assumed similarity. When stimuli were believed to be the same but actually differed, P600s were greater over a large number of sites, suggesting greater enrichment in conditions of qualia difference and assumed similarity. P600s were also larger over many sites, when stimuli were believed to differ but were identical, suggesting that qualia similar to ours could pass the “believed-different filter”.
Functions of Indirect Utterances and Interpretation in the Course of the English Language Studies
Authors: Shirokikh Anna
Published: December 2014

The article looks upon communicative functions of utterances. In the author’s

point of view, rules of speech are dependent on the aim of communication,

situation of speech, communicants’ statuses, properties of speech

channel and supposition. These aspects of communication are reflected in

the context of English language studies. Using the theory of dictema and

factors of speech regulation as the basis for research the author analyses

indirect utterances in publicistic texts read at English language lessons.

Interpretation activities of students help to discover implicit properties of

the indirect utterances and notional components of texts. The aims of utterances

and communicative intention are seen as the basis of post suppositional

research in reading and listening of English language texts. The

author singles out the following functions of indirect utterances: linking and

compression of information, escalation of information, communicative emphasis,

expressing emotions and assessments, confirmation, imperative

function, starter in a conversation, informational and emphatic assertion

function, duality of opinion function and providing background knowledge.
Studies on Civilizational Variability of the Lexical Meaning of Words
Authors: Oganesyan Sergey
Published: December 2014

The article is a case study showing how words and expressions

of Russian language bear the imprint of mental civilizations quite

remote from our day. It is also being tracked how these changed their lexical

meaning according to mentality peculiarities and lifestyle specifics of

people, which have a great impact on adequate perception of any verbal

information. And it is being proven that the civilizational mentality allows

for tracking and explanation not only of the retrospection of changes in the

lingual system, but of the development prospect of the whole language

as well.
Studying Body Language Through TV Programmes – Deutsche Welle
Authors: Dubinskiy Vladimir
Published: December 2014

In this issue we are starting to publish the research paper presented by V.I. Dubinskiy. The author aims at demonstrating non-verbal means of communi- cation in the German language as well as showing the way they are used in everyday life and the specifics of teaching them further cross-cultural communication with Germans. Knowing non-verbal means of communication typical of native speakers means broadening the general knowledge of the student of the language and developing an active communicative approach to speech interaction.
The Strategy of Professional Training of Students-orientalists in West European Languages
Authors: Vorontsova M. , Klyukina E.
Published: December 2014

The article dwells upon a strategy of professional training of students – Orientalists

in European languages, defines specifics of teaching a European

language to students-orientalists, as well as works out new approaches

meeting new requirements, new methodological aims and objectives. A new

educational complex, aiming at developing communication in all language

spheres, serves as an example of applying new strategies.
Complex Syntactic Whole: the Use of Grammatical Forms of the Predicate for Expressing Communicative Intentions
Authors: Torzhok Albina , Voevoda Elena
Published: December 2014

The article considers the role of the grammatical forms of the predicate in expressing communicative intentions of the speaker within complex syntactic whole. Analyzing the specifics of substitution, the author points out that implicit substitution, or deletion, is made with the help of zero substitute, while explicit substitution or replacement, implies the use of the verb ‘to do’. This type of substitution exists as a separate grammatical phenomenon based on the opposition to the explicit form of the predicate. Auxiliary and modal verbs serve as markers of implicit (zero) substitution of the lexical part of the predicate. The substitute verb ‘to do’, due to its wide semantics, often replaces ‘action verbs’. In most cases, these two types of predicate substitution and the related phenomena are to be considered in a wide context – a complex syntactical whole. An analysis of opposition of grammatical forms of the predicate, with the aim of defining communicative intentions of the speaker or new implications relevant for both communicants and ways of effecting the addressee, shows that such an opposition helps to build the expressive and pragmatic potential of the statement.
Interdisciplinary Research Context of the Pupils’ Ability to Multilingual Communication Forming in the Process of Schooling
Authors: Pershukova Oksana
Published: December 2014

The article deals with multilingualism analysis as compound and multidimensional

phenomena, which is the subject of scientific interest a number of

disciplines of social, humanitarian and natural science areas. Special attention

is paid to clarify terms. Through the lens of research in different fields of

knowledge the author demonstrates the evolution of ideas about the ability

to multilingual communication forming in the process of schooling. A brief

review of innovative approaches to the formation of multilingualism is given.

The conclusion is made that availability of close contacts between several

scientific directions is a necessary component of multilingualism research

and the solution of practical problems of multilingual competence formation

in the educational process is possible if based on the findings of the

separate sciences and interdisciplinary approach application. An important

role is also played by the constant rethinking and interpretation of existing

in European countries language teaching experience. For multilingual

education as a fundamental method of artificial multilingualism forming is

characteristic an integrated approach, taking into account the knowledge,

skills and experience and, above all, a profound command of student’s native

language as the basis of thinking, and on this foundation the gradual

deepening and understanding the essence of linguistic phenomena, their

laws, inner connections, awareness of different systems of concepts existence,

through which it is possible to perceive the reality and mastering the

different ways of ideas design.
Standardization and the Effectiveness of Online Advertising
Authors: Goldfarb Avi , Tucker Catherine E.
Published: December 2014

The technological transformation and automation of digital content delivery has revolutionized the media industry. Increased reliance on automation has also led to requirements for standardization of content-delivery formats. This paper examines how the memorability of banner advertising changed with the introduction of new standards regularizing its format. Using data from randomized field tests, we find evidence that for most ads, ad effectiveness falls as the use of standard formats rises. The decline is smaller when a standardized ad appears to be more original (such as ads created by an ad agency). Therefore, a likely explanation is that increased use of a standard format makes it harder for basic ads to distinguish themselves from their competition because the ad format commands less attention.

This paper was accepted by Pradeep Chintagunta, marketing.
Reducing the incidence of incontinence
Authors: McClurg Doreen , Gerrard Jacque , Hove Ruth Ten
Published: December 2014

The pelvic floor muscles (PFMs) are the layer of muscles that support the pelvic organs and play an important role in continence. Weakened PFMs will not fully support the internal organs, which can lead to difficulties controlling the release of urine, faeces or flatus and can cause prolapse to occur. Pregnancy and vaginal delivery are a recognised cause of PFM weakness; however, it has been shown that PFM exercises, if carried out correctly and routinely, can reduce the severity of symptoms. Midwives need to be pro-active in teaching PFM exercises and identifying women who may need to be referred for more specialist treatment. We describe an initiative to support midwives with these tasks.
Turning the tide of childbirth: Are we still adrift?
Authors: Rogers Cathy , Villar Rose , Harman Joan
Published: December 2014

The Birthplace Study should have provided the catalyst to change the planned place of birth for nearly half of the women in England. However 4 years on, only 10% of women give birth in a midwife-led setting. Using the evidence from national studies, new initiatives focusing on improving informed choice and the knowledge and confidence of midwives were implemented in one large maternity unit. The strategies have, in part, been successful, with approximately 30% of local women planning to give birth in a midwifery-led setting. This work has demonstrated the challenging task of changing current perceptions around the safety of planned birth outside an obstetric unit demanding strong leadership supported by an effective marketing campaign. The publication of the recent National Institute for Health and Care Excellence Intrapartum Guidelines should provide further impetus in transforming the culture around childbirth.
Measurement of microelectric potentials in a bioelectrically-active wound care device in the presence of bacteria
Authors: Park S.S. , Kim H. , Makin I.R.S. , Skiba J.B. , Izadjoo M.J.
Published: December 2014

Objective:

Wound healing is enhanced in the presence of an external electrical field. The purpose of this study was first to investigate whether microelectric potentials (EPs) can be generated when the innovative design of a silver (Ag)- and zinc (Zn)-printed wound care device was exposed to saline solution which is commonly used to clean wound sites; and second to measure the generated EPs while the device was exposed to bacterial culture suspensions to mimic infection.

Method:

An Ag/Zn-printed test specimen as a wound care device was designed to accommodate Ag and Zn half-cell potentials by alternatively printing them on a woven polyester material in a well-characterised dot matrix pattern. A well-calibrated high impedance EPs measuring system was used to measure any EPs generated. Ultrasensitive inductively coupled plasma analysis was performed to determine whether the device induced any increase in trace metals in rabbit blood following implantation for 2–4 weeks.

Results:

EPs were consistently generated under various conductive solutions at the levels of 120.4±26.3mV (average±standard deviation) on Ag dots and -506.5±76.3mV over Zn dots to form microcircuits with EPs of 626.7±86.3mV between the Ag and Zn metallic elements of the dressing. Interestingly, the patterns of EPs generated with stable polarities were consistent when the device was exposed to bacterial suspensions for mimicking wound infection. Implantation of the device did not cause any increase in Ag or Zn in rabbit blood.

Conclusion:

The Ag/Zn-printed wound device generated sustained EPs successfully in the presence of various conductive fluids without changing EPs including polarities. Consistently generated EPs at each battery couple with Ag/Zn-based wound device would restore disrupted physiologic bioelectric signals on wound sites, which could lead to improved wound healing.

Declaration of interest:

The opinions or assertions contained herein are the private views of the authors and are not to be construed as official or as reflecting the views of the US Department of the Army, the US Department of Defense, the Department of Veterans Affairs, or the Henry M. Jackson Foundation for Advancement of Military Medicine. The research was supported by the US Air Force medical support agency (AFMSA), office of the Air Force Surgeon General, USA.
Managing adult malnutrition in the community
Authors: Fletcher Jane
Published: December 2014

Malnutrition in the community is multifactorial, including a range of disease-related, psychological or psychosocial issues. Malnutrition can have an adverse effect on the health, wellbeing and independence of people living in the community. Therefore, nurses must engage with this problem by detecting individuals at risk of malnutrition and devising a plan for treatment or prevention.
Alcohol-related harm in the practice
Authors: Holloway Aisha
Published: December 2014

Alcohol-related harm is a serious public health concern. Aisha Holloway explains how practice nurses can identify those at risk and deliver brief interventions to facilitate the change of alcohol consumption behaviour
Estado actual del conocimiento sobre el cuidado nutricional de la mujer embarazada
Authors: Barretto Luciana , Mackinnon María José , Poy Mabel Susana , Wiedemann Adriana , López Laura Beatriz
Published: December 2014

El embarazo implica una importante actividad anabólica que determina un aumento de las necesidades nutricionales con relación al periodo preconcepcional. El presente trabajo se propone revisar los conocimientos actuales sobre las necesidades energéticas, de macro y micronutrientes durante la gestación, así como también los lineamientos para abordar los trastornos gastrointestinales frecuentes durante el embarazo, la problemática de pica y la valoración antropométrica para asegurar una ganancia de peso óptima. La mayoría de los nutrientes requeridos por la gestación pueden ser proporcionados por una alimentación completa y balanceada. Actualmente la evidencia científica demuestra que la suplementación rutinaria con hierro y ácido fólico durante la gestación, constituye una práctica que previene la anemia ferropénica, los trastornos del tubo neural y los nacimientos pretérmino. La suplementación intermitente puede ser una alternativa igualmente eficaz. Cuando la alimentación no garantiza un aporte adecuado también pueden ser necesarios suplementos de yodo, vitamina B12 y vitamina D. La valoración antropométrica mediante el patrón de ganancia de peso debiera estar presente en cada consulta del control prenatal para evitar complicaciones maternas y fetales. En situaciones donde el peso materno no se puede valorar, la circunferencia muscular del brazo es una alternativa posible para realizar una evaluación general ya que se correlaciona de manera adecuada con el aumento de peso materno. Las mediciones de los pliegues cutáneos del bíceps, tríceps y subescapular constituyen otra alternativa que resulta de utilidad para evaluar los depósitos grasos y su localización, en forma complementaria a la ganancia de peso corporal.
Microbiología alimentaria y fenómenos "paranormales" en la historia
Authors: Soriano del Castillo José Miguel , Martínez-Rosillo Cruz , Sebastià-Fabregat Natividad , Soler-Quiles Carla
Published: December 2014

A lo largo de la historia han existido fenómenos aparentemente inexplicables cuyos resultados han originado muertes, milagros, juicios por brujería e incluso ganancias y pérdidas de batallas militares. En este artículo se realiza una inspección microbiológica-histórica en donde algunos microorganismos (Claviceps purpurea, Fusarium sporotrichioides, Serratia marcescens y Stachybotrys chartarum), pueden ser los hipotéticos causantes de algunos de estos fenómenos.