bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Registration of Tepary Germplasm with Multiple‐Stress Tolerance, TARS‐Tep 22 and TARS‐Tep 32
Authors: Porch Timothy G. , Beaver James S. , Brick Mark A.
Published: May 2013

High ambient temperature and drought stress as a result of climate change are increasingly critical factors affecting agriculture, specifically grain legume production. Tepary bean (Phaseolus acutifolius A. Gray), a drought‐ and heat‐tolerant species closely related to common bean (P. vulgaris L.), has long been employed by Native Americans for production in regions prone to abiotic stress. In addition to abiotic stress, common bacterial blight [caused by Xanthomonas axonopodis pv. phaseoli (Smith) Dye] and seed weevils [Acanthoscelides obtectus (Say)] are widespread yield and storage constraints worldwide, respectively. TARS‐Tep 22 (Reg. No. GP‐288, PI 666350) and TARS‐Tep 32 (Reg. No. GP‐289, PI 666351) were developed by the USDA‐ARS, the University of Puerto Rico Agricultural Experiment Station, and Colorado State University. The tepary bean germplasms were selected for multiple stress tolerances, including high‐temperature and drought stresses and resistance to bacterial blight and seed weevils, and for larger seed size and more erect architecture. TARS‐Tep 22 represents the first published release of improved tepary as a result of hybridization and selection, and TARS‐Tep 32 is a single plant selection from a landrace (PI 477033) from Arizona. The use of this improved germplasm by farmers in production zones affected by abiotic and/or biotic stress or by breeding programs can potentially increase yields of this newly rediscovered crop.
Measurement of Body Temperature of Patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital - An Observational Study
Authors: Parvin Rukhsana , Perveen Irin , Biswas Gopal , Rahman SM Mahbubur , Uddin AKM Rafique
Published: May 2013

Bangladesh Journal of Medicine, Vol 23 No 2, 2012, Page 59-61 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v23i2.14985
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
Authors: Sardar Md. Hafiz , Hossain Mohammad Murad , Mallik Md. Uzzwal , Appolo Al Mahmood , Islam Mohammad Shaiful
Published: May 2013

Bangladesh Journal of Medicine, Vol 23 No 2, 2012, Page 67-75 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v23i2.14989
Gastric Antral Vascular Ectasia Presenting with Severe Anemia-a Case Report
Authors: Amin Mohammad Al , Roy Shanta , Barman Swadesh , Islam Shahidul , Tabassum Humayara , Kabir Ahmedul
Published: May 2013

Bangladesh Journal of Medicine, Vol 23 No 2, 2012, Page 80-81 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjmed.v23i2.14991
Integrating Islamic Value In Medical Teaching Curriculum: IIUM Experience
Authors: Osman Ariff
Published: May 2013

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 02 April13 Page 117-120 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i2.14937
Seroprevalence of Hepatitis B virus infection among blood donors in Shia Muslims in a population of Lucknow
Authors: Ahmed Sharique , Chaturvedi Himanshu , Mehdi Syed Riaz
Published: May 2013

Background: The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence and trends in hepatitis B infection among blood donors Shia Muslims attending the blood bank in Era's Lucknow Medical College lucknow. A retrospective study was carried out by reviewing the results of HBsAg among blood donors for the years 2002 to 2012. During this period,11962 blood donors were studied. Conclusion: There is a constant need to improve public awareness programs to lower the incidence of hepatitis B infection in the general population and in Shia Muslims and consequently first time blood donors. Future studies are also required to determine the trends and outcomes of these programs. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 02 April13 Page 146-149 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i2.14942
Haemtological Parameters of Residents of Offa, KWARA State
Authors: Ojulari Lekan Sheriff , Abubakar Kabir Taiye , Owoyele Bamidele Victor
Published: May 2013

Objectives: This study aims to study some hematologic parameters, here, the packed cell volume (PCV), the red blood cell (RBC) count, hemoglobin concentration (HC) and white blood cell (WBC) count in residents of Offa in Kwara state, Nigeria. Methods: Blood samples of healthy male and female Offa indigenes were analyzed for RBC count, PCV, HC and WBC count. Results: The mean HC was 14.6 and 13.71 g/dl of blood, for both males and females respectively, while the mean PCV was 43.1% and 40.4% for both males and females, respectively. The mean RBC count for males was 5.45 x 166 cells per mm3 while that of females was 4.55 x 106 / mm3. Conclusion: All values investigated were lower than that for Caucasians. The probable causes of the differences between the above values as compared to those of the western world were also discussed. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 02 April13 Page 180-185 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i2.14947
Anhydrotic Ectodermal Dysplasia With Pregnancy- A Case Study
Authors: Ahsan Touhida
Published: May 2013

Hereditary Ectodermal Dysplasia is an inherited disorder involving skin, teeth, hair and nails. Hypohidrotic ectodermal dysplasia or Anhydrotic ectodermal dysplasia is the most common syndrome among this large group of heriditory disorders. Hypohydrosis/anhydrosis, hypotrichosis and hypodontia constitute the main symptoms of the syndrome. The case of a 28 year old lady with Anhidrotic ectodermal dysplasia and pregnancy with positive family history is described. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 12 No. 02 April13 Page 235-237 DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3329/bjms.v12i2.14980
Antarctic Epilithic Lichens as Niches for Black Meristematic Fungi
Authors: Selbmann Laura , Grube Martin , Onofri Silvano , Isola Daniela , Zucconi Laura
Published: May 2013

Sixteen epilithic lichen samples (13 species), collected from seven locations in Northern and Southern Victoria Land in Antarctica, were investigated for the presence of black fungi. Thirteen fungal strains isolated were studied by both morphological and molecular methods. Nuclear ribosomal 18S gene sequences were used together with the most similar published and unpublished sequences of fungi from other sources, to reconstruct an ML tree. Most of the studied fungi could be grouped together with described or still unnamed rock-inhabiting species in lichen dominated Antarctic cryptoendolithic communities. At the edge of life, epilithic lichens withdraw inside the airspaces of rocks to find conditions still compatible with life; this study provides evidence, for the first time, that the same microbes associated to epilithic thalli also have the same fate and chose endolithic life. These results support the concept of lichens being complex symbiotic systems, which offer attractive and sheltered habitats for other microbes.
The Synthesis and Molecular Structure of 1-(3,4-Dihydroxyphenethyl)-3-hydroxy-2-methylpyridin-4(1H)-one Hydrochloride Methanol Solvate
Authors: Hall Steven , Roy Raymond , McLaughlin Dylan , Sullivan Kate , Barclay L. , Vogels Christopher , Decken Andreas , Westcott Stephen
Published: May 2013

A 3-hydro-4-pyridinone compound derived from maltol and dopamine has been prepared using a microwave reactor. The molecular structure of the protonated product was confirmed by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Crystals were obtained from a saturated solution of methanol and belong to the triclinic space group P-1 with unit cell parameters a = 8.3801(11) Å; b = 9.2583(12) Å; c = 11.5671(15) Å; α = 73.566(2)°; β = 84.514(2)°; γ = 66.578(2)°. The asymmetric unit contains two molecules.
Learning Systems Biology: Conceptual Considerations toward a Web-Based Learning Platform
Authors: Emmert-Streib Frank , Dehmer Matthias , Lyardet Fernando
Published: May 2013

Within recent years, there is an increasing need to train students, from biology and beyond, in quantitative methods that are relevant to cope with data-driven biology. Systems Biology is such a field that places a particular focus on the functional aspect of biology and molecular interacting processes. This paper deals with the conceptual design of a web-based course and its content for educating students in systems biology. We discuss several learning strategies and problems when dealing with structural hypertext patterns that might occur in the context of web-based learning platforms. Finally, we explain the content of the course modules and its features such as its usability and the impact on the learner.
Investigating Unmet Health Needs in Primary Health Care Services in a Representative Sample of the Greek Population
Authors: Pappa Evelina , Kontodimopoulos Nick , Papadopoulos Angelos , Tountas Yannis , Niakas Dimitris
Published: May 2013

Unmet health care needs are determined as the difference between the services judged necessary and the services actually received, and stem from barriers related to accessibility, availability and acceptability. This study aims to examine the prevalence of unmet needs and to identify the socioeconomic and health status factors that are associated with unmet needs. A cross-sectional study was conducted in Greece in 2010 and involved data from 1,000 consenting subjects (>18 years old). Multiple binary logistic regression analysis was applied to investigate the predictors of unmet needs and to determine the relation between the socio-demographic characteristics and the accessibility, availability and acceptability barriers. Ninety nine participants (9.9%) reported unmet health needs during the 12 months prior to the research. The most frequently self-reported reasons were cost and lack of time. Youth, parenthood, physician consultations, and poor mental health increased the likelihood of unmet needs. Women were less likely to report accessibility and availability than acceptability barriers. Educational differences were evident and individuals with primary and secondary education were associated with significantly more accessibility and availability barriers compared with those with tertiary education. Unmet health needs pose a significant challenge to the health care system, especially given the difficult current financial situation in Greece. It is believed that unmet health needs will continue to increase, which will widen inequalities in health and health care access.
Ischemic Preconditioning Protects against Spinal Cord Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury in Rabbits by Attenuating Blood Spinal Cord Barrier Disruption
Authors: Fang Bo , Li Xiao-Man , Sun Xi-Jia , Bao Na-Ren , Ren Xiao-Yan , Lv Huang-Wei , Ma Hong
Published: May 2013

Ischemic preconditioning has been reported to protect against spinal cord ischemia-reperfusion (I-R) injury, but the underlying mechanisms are not fully understood. To investigate this, Japanese white rabbits underwent I-R (30 min aortic occlusion followed by reperfusion), ischemic preconditioning (three cycles of 5 min aortic occlusion plus 5 min reperfusion) followed by I-R, or sham surgery. At 4 and 24 h following reperfusion, neurological function was assessed using Tarlov scores, blood spinal cord barrier permeability was measured by Evan’s Blue extravasation, spinal cord edema was evaluated using the wet-dry method, and spinal cord expression of zonula occluden-1 (ZO-1), matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP-9), and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) were measured by Western blot and a real-time polymerase chain reaction. ZO-1 was also assessed using immunofluorescence. Spinal cord I-R injury reduced neurologic scores, and ischemic preconditioning treatment ameliorated this effect. Ischemic preconditioning inhibited I-R-induced increases in blood spinal cord barrier permeability and water content, increased ZO-1 mRNA and protein expression, and reduced MMP-9 and TNF-α mRNA and protein expression. These findings suggest that ischemic preconditioning attenuates the increase in blood spinal cord barrier permeability due to spinal cord I-R injury by preservation of tight junction protein ZO-1 and reducing MMP-9 and TNF-α expression.
Ultraviolet (UV) and Hydrogen Peroxide Activate Ceramide-ER Stress-AMPK Signaling Axis to Promote Retinal Pigment Epithelium (RPE) Cell Apoptosis
Authors: Yao Jin , Bi Hui-E , Sheng Yi , Cheng Li-Bo , Wendu Ri-Le , Wang Cheng-Hu , Cao Guo-Fan , Jiang Qin
Published: May 2013

Ultraviolet (UV) radiation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) impair the physiological functions of retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells by inducing cell apoptosis, which is the main cause of age-related macular degeneration (AMD). The mechanism by which UV/ROS induces RPE cell death is not fully addressed. Here, we observed the activation of a ceramide-endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress-AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK) signaling axis in UV and hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)-treated RPE cells. UV and H2O2 induced an early ceramide production, profound ER stress and AMPK activation. Pharmacological inhibitors against ER stress (salubrinal), ceramide production (fumonisin B1) and AMPK activation (compound C) suppressed UV- and H2O2-induced RPE cell apoptosis. Conversely, cell permeable short-chain C6 ceramide and AMPK activator AICAR (5-amino-1-β-D-ribofuranosyl-imidazole-4-carboxamide) mimicked UV and H2O2’s effects and promoted RPE cell apoptosis. Together, these results suggest that UV/H2O2 activates the ceramide-ER stress-AMPK signaling axis to promote RPE cell apoptosis.
Claudins Overexpression in Ovarian Cancer: Potential Targets for Clostridium Perfringens Enterotoxin (CPE) Based Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: English Diana , Santin Alessandro
Published: May 2013

Claudins are a family of tight junction proteins regulating paracellular permeability and cell polarity with different patterns of expression in benign and malignant human tissues. There are approximately 27 members of the claudin family identified to date with varying cell and tissue-specific expression. Claudins-3, -4 and -7 represent the most highly differentially expressed claudins in ovarian cancer. While their exact role in ovarian tumors is still being elucidated, these proteins are thought to be critical for ovarian cancer cell invasion/dissemination and resistance to chemotherapy. Claudin-3 and claudin-4 are the natural receptors for the Clostridium perfringens enterotoxin (CPE), a potent cytolytic toxin. These surface proteins may therefore represent attractive targets for the detection and treatment of chemotherapy-resistant ovarian cancer and other aggressive solid tumors overexpressing claudin-3 and -4 using CPE-based theranostic agents.
Incorporation of Exogenous RGD Peptide and Inter-Species Blending as Strategies for Enhancing Human Corneal Limbal Epithelial Cell Growth on Bombyx mori Silk Fibroin Membranes
Authors: Bray Laura , Suzuki Shuko , Harkin Damien , Chirila Traian
Published: May 2013

While fibroin isolated from the cocoons of domesticated silkworm Bombyx mori supports growth of human corneal limbal epithelial (HLE) cells, the mechanism of cell attachment remains unclear. In the present study we sought to enhance the attachment of HLE cells to membranes of Bombyx mori silk fibroin (BMSF) through surface functionalization with an arginine-glycine-aspartic acid (RGD)-containing peptide. Moreover, we have examined the response of HLE cells to BMSF when blended with the fibroin produced by a wild silkworm, Antheraea pernyi, which is known to contain RGD sequences within its primary structure. A procedure to isolate A. pernyi silk fibroin (APSF) from the cocoons was established, and blends of the two fibroins were prepared at five different BMSF/APSF ratios. In another experiment, BMSF surface was modified by binding chemically the GRGDSPC peptide using a water-soluble carbodiimide. Primary HLE were grown in the absence of serum on membranes made of BMSF, APSF, and their blends, as well as on RGD-modified BMSF. There was no statistically significant enhancing effect on the cell attachment due to the RGD presence. This suggests that the adhesion through RGD ligands may have a complex mechanism, and the investigated strategies are of limited value unless the factors contributing to this mechanism become better known.
Effect of Leguminous Lectins on the Growth of Rhizobium tropici CIAT899
Authors: De Vasconcelos Mayron , Cunha Cláudio , Arruda Francisco , Carneiro Victor , Bastos Rafaela , Mercante Fábio , Nascimento Kyria , Cavada Benildo , Santos Ricardo , Teixeira Edson
Published: May 2013

Rhizobium tropici is a Gram-negative bacterium that induces nodules and fixed atmospheric nitrogen in symbiotic association with Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) and some other leguminous species. Lectins are proteins that specifically bind to carbohydrates and, consequently, modulate different biological functions. In this study, the d-glucose/ d-mannose-binding lectins (from seeds of Dioclea megacarpa, D. rostrata and D. violacea) and D-galactose-binding lectins (from seeds of Bauhinia variegata, Erythina velutina and Vatairea macrocarpa) were purified using chromatographic techniques and evaluated for their effect on the growth of R. tropici CIAT899. All lectins were assayed with a satisfactory degree of purity according to SDS-PAGE analysis, and stimulated bacterial growth; in particular, the Dioclea rostrata lectin was the most active among all tested proteins. As confirmed in the present study, both d-galactose- and d-glucose/d-mannose-binding lectins purified from the seeds of leguminous plants may be powerful biotechnological tools to stimulate the growth of R. tropici CIAT99, thus improving symbiotic interaction between rhizobia and common bean and, hence, the production of this field crop.
Dried Root of Rehmannia glutinosa Prevents Bone Loss in Ovariectomized Rats
Authors: Lim Dong , Kim Yun
Published: May 2013

Dried root of Rehmannia glutinosa is a kidney-tonifying herbal medicine with a long history of safe use in traditional folk medicine for the treatment of joint diseases. This study was conducted to investigate prevention of bone loss by a standardized dried root of R. glutinosa in an ovariectomized (OVX) rat model of osteoporosis. The OVX groups were divided into five groups treated with distilled water, 17β-estradiol (E2 10 µg/kg, once daily, i.p) and dried root of R. glutinosa extracts (DRGE 30, 100, and 300 mg/kg, twice daily, p.o) for eight weeks. We measured the body, organs, and uterus weights, and femur and lumbar vertebrae bone mineral density (BMD), serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP), estradiol levels. The treatments with DRGE 300 mg/kg significantly inhibited BMD decrease in the femur and lumbar (17.5% and 16.4%, p < 0.05, respectively) by OVX without affecting the body, organs, and uterus weights. Also, serum ALP level in the DRGE 300 mg/kg treated group was significantly decreased, but the estradiol level did not change in serum of the DRGE 300 mg/kg treated group. These results show that DRGE is able to prevent OVX-induced bone loss without influencing hormones such as estrogen.
Gold Nanoparticle Contrast Agents in Advanced X-ray Imaging Technologies
Authors: Ahn Sungsook , Jung Sung , Lee Sang
Published: May 2013

Recently, there has been significant progress in the field of soft- and hard-X-ray imaging for a wide range of applications, both technically and scientifically, via developments in sources, optics and imaging methodologies. While one community is pursuing extensive applications of available X-ray tools, others are investigating improvements in techniques, including new optics, higher spatial resolutions and brighter compact sources. For increased image quality and more exquisite investigation on characteristic biological phenomena, contrast agents have been employed extensively in imaging technologies. Heavy metal nanoparticles are excellent absorbers of X-rays and can offer excellent improvements in medical diagnosis and X-ray imaging. In this context, the role of gold (Au) is important for advanced X-ray imaging applications. Au has a long-history in a wide range of medical applications and exhibits characteristic interactions with X-rays. Therefore, Au can offer a particular advantage as a tracer and a contrast enhancer in X-ray imaging technologies by sensing the variation in X-ray attenuation in a given sample volume. This review summarizes basic understanding on X-ray imaging from device set-up to technologies. Then this review covers recent studies in the development of X-ray imaging techniques utilizing gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) and their relevant applications, including two- and three-dimensional biological imaging, dynamical processes in a living system, single cell-based imaging and quantitative analysis of circulatory systems and so on. In addition to conventional medical applications, various novel research areas have been developed and are expected to be further developed through AuNP-based X-ray imaging technologies.
Inhibitory Effects and Mechanisms of Luteolin on Proliferation and Migration of Vascular Smooth Muscle Cells
Authors: Jiang Dehua , Li Dongye , Wu Wanling
Published: May 2013

Atherosclerosis is a complicated progress, involving many types of cells. Although the exact mechanisms of progression of atherosclerosis are uncertain, the balance of vascular smooth muscle cells (VSMCs) proliferation and apoptosis appears to play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis and progression of atherosclerosis, and much discussion has been undertaken to elucidate the detailed mechanisms, relevant gene expression and transduction pathways. Drug treatment has focused on ameliorating atherosclerosis. Some researchers have indicated that inhibiting VSMCs proliferation is involved in attenuating atherosclerosis. Luteolin is a kind of flavonoids naturally occurring in many plants and possesses beneficial effects on cardiovascular diseases. Luteolin can reduce VSMCs’ proliferation and migration and this reduction is stimulated by several factors. The aim of this review is to summarize the existing inhibitory effects and mechanisms of luteolin on proliferation and migration of VSMCs, and consider whether luteolin may be a potential candidate for preventing and treating atherosclerosis.
A Global Assessment of Long-Term Greening and Browning Trends in Pasture Lands Using the GIMMS LAI3g Dataset
Authors: Cook Benjamin , Pau Stephanie
Published: May 2013

Pasture ecosystems may be particularly vulnerable to land degradation due to the high risk of human disturbance (e.g., overgrazing, burning, etc.), especially when compared with natural ecosystems (non-pasture, non-cultivated) where direct human impacts are minimal. Using maximum annual leaf area index (LAImax) as a proxy for standing biomass and peak annual aboveground productivity, we analyze greening and browning trends in pasture areas from 1982–2008. Inter-annual variability in pasture productivity is strongly controlled by precipitation (positive correlation) and, to a lesser extent, temperature (negative correlation). Linear temporal trends are significant in 23% of pasture cells, with the vast majority of these areas showing positive LAImax trends. Spatially extensive productivity declines are only found in a few regions, most notably central Asia, southwest North America, and southeast Australia. Statistically removing the influence of precipitation reduces LAImax trends by only 13%, suggesting that precipitation trends are only a minor contributor to long-term greening and browning of pasture lands. No significant global relationship was found between LAImax and pasture intensity, although the magnitude of trends did vary between cells classified as natural versus pasture. In the tropics and Southern Hemisphere, the median rate of greening in pasture cells is significantly higher than for cells dominated by natural vegetation. In the Northern Hemisphere extra-tropics, conversely, greening of natural areas is 2–4 times the magnitude of greening in pasture areas. This analysis presents one of the first global assessments of greening and browning trends in global pasture lands, including a comparison with vegetation trends in regions dominated by natural ecosystems. Our results suggest that degradation of pasture lands is not a globally widespread phenomenon and, consistent with much of the terrestrial biosphere, there have been widespread increases in pasture productivity over the last 30 years.
Frequent Unscheduled Updates of the National Base Map Using the Land-Based Mobile Mapping System
Authors: Hwang Jinsang , Yun Hongsik , Jeong Taejun , Suh Yongcheol , Huang He
Published: May 2013

This paper focuses on the use of the Land-based Mobile Mapping System (LMMS) for the unscheduled updates of a National Base Map, which has nationwide coverage and was made using aerial photogrammetry. The objectives of this research are to improve the weak points of LMMS surveying for its application to the updates of a National Base Map (NBM), which has rigorous accuracy and quality standards. For this, methods were suggested for the (1) improvement of the accuracy of the Global Positioning System/Inertial Navigation System (GPS/INS) in the long-term exposure of environments with poor GPS reception; (2) elimination of mutual deviations between LMMS data obtained in duplicate to meet resolution standards; (3) devising an effective way of mapping objects using LMMS data; and (4) analysis of updatable regions and map layers via LMMS. To verify the suggested methods, experiments and analyses were conducted using two LMMS devices in four target areas for unscheduled updates of the National Base Map.
Métrique antique et chanson populaire
Authors: Baud-Bovy Samuel
Published: May 2013

L'étude prolonge, dans le domaine du rythme et de la métrique, des recherches poursuivies depuis 1967, essentiellement à propos des modes, sur les rapports entre la musique populaire grecque moderne et la musique grecque de l'Antiquité ; ces recherches reposent sur une expérience de musicien, d'ethnomusicologue de terrain, d'helléniste et de néohelléniste. Révoquant en doute certaines théories dues notamment à Aristoxène, l'auteur montre le parti que l'on peut tirer de l'accent de hauteur, en combinaison avec la durée. Bien des rythmes réputés anormaux sont éclairés, et rapprochés de rythmes modernes. Ainsi est encore vérifiée la « continuité » chère à l'auteur, et démontrée l'utilité d'une approche de certains problèmes de l'Antiquité à partir de réalités modernes.
Primers for low‐copy nuclear genes in the Hawaiian endemic Clermontia (Campanulaceae) and cross‐amplification in Lobelioideae
Authors: Pillon Yohan , Johansen Jennifer , Sakishima Tomoko , Chamala Srikar , Barbazuk W. Brad , Stacy Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2013

• Premise of the study: Primers were developed to amplify 12 intron‐less, low‐copy nuclear genes in the Hawaiian genus Clermontia (Campanulaceae), a suspected tetraploid.

• Methods and Results: Data from a pooled 454 titanium run of the partial transcriptomes of seven Clermontia species were used to identify the loci of interest. Most loci were amplified and sequenced directly with success in a representative selection of lobeliads even though several of these loci turned out to be duplicated. Levels of variation were comparable to those observed in commonly used plastid and ribosomal markers.

• Conclusions: We found evidence of a genome duplication that likely predates the diversification of the Hawaiian lobeliads. Some genes nevertheless appear to be single‐copy and should be useful for phylogenetic studies of Clermontia or the entire Lobelioideae subfamily.
Contexte spatial des ambiances urbaines et usage des lieux
Authors: Piombini Arnaud
Published: May 2013

Cet article a pour but de présenter le point de vue d’un géographe sur l’organisation spatiale des ambiances urbaines. Au-delà des méthodes de qualification sensible des lieux, le principal thème traité réside dans la caractérisation du contexte spatial des ambiances selon plusieurs méthodes d’analyse spatiale. Les modèles de choix permettent ensuite de confronter cette structure spatiale aux pratiques de mobilité pédestre pour mettre en évidence les préférences ambiantales des citadins. L’objectif est ici de replacer les ambiances dans le jeu complexe d’opportunités et de contraintes qui lie les citadins aux espaces urbains et qui affecte, in fine, leur perception et leurs usages des lieux.
Filmer l’ambiance urbaine : Les dispositifs vidéographiques à l’œuvre chez William H. Whyte dans La vie sociale des petits espaces urbains
Authors: Brayer Laure
Published: May 2013

Cet article interroge le rôle de la vidéo dans la compréhension de l’urbain et plus précisément, dans ses possibilités de représentation des ambiances urbaines. Dans le cadre d’une lecture des dispositifs vidéographiques mis en œuvre au cœur de certaines recherches urbaines, nous nous intéressons ici au travail de William H. Whyte et de son équipe, et plus spécifiquement à la recherche intitulée The Social Life of Small Urban Spaces. Cette recherche s’est développée à partir d’un travail de terrain centré sur un enregistrement vidéographique des espaces étudiés. Nous avons choisi d’observer les dispositifs vidéographiques mis en place et de porter attention aux différentes façons dont ceux-ci orientent notre compréhension d’un lieu. Plus qu’une simple illustration visuelle, ces extraits vidéo nous offrent des pistes de compréhension des usages, des temporalités et des ambiances d’un lieu à un moment donné.
Reading the National Disability and Rehabilitation Policy in the light of Foucault’s technologies of power
Authors: Leshota Lekholokoe P.
Published: May 2013

In the area of disability studies, models have been at the centre of debates, influencing social policies, practices and legal frameworks. The former Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in the Kingdom of Lesotho was not an exception. In its efforts to tackle issues of disability, it produced The National Disability and Rehabilitation Policy: Mainstreaming persons with disabilities into society in 2011. This policy document is rooted in the social model and seeks to address long-standing problems and challenges of people with disabilities in the Kingdom. Using ideas from Foucault, particularly the technologies and regimes of power, which work through language and practice, this article examined ways in which people with disabilities are constituted through state knowledge and government policies, and concluded that these constructions form the basis for alienation and marginalisation in society.
Fat absorption and deposition in Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) fed a high fat diet
Authors: Magubane Mhlengi M. , Lembede Busisani W. , Erlwanger Kennedy H. , Chivandi Eliton , Donaldson Janine
Published: May 2013

Dietary fat contributes significantly to the energy requirements of poultry. Not all species are able to increase their absorptive capacity for fats in response to a high fat diet. The effects of a high fat diet (10% canola oil) on the lipid absorption and deposition in the liver, breast and thigh muscles of male and female Japanese quail were investigated. Thirty-eight Japanese quail (Coturnix coturnix japonica) were randomly divided into a high fat diet (HFD) and a standard diet (STD) group. The birds were fed the diets for seven weeks after which half of the birds were subjected to oral fat loading tests (OFLT) with plant oils containing long-chain and medium-chain triglycerides. The remaining birds were included for the lipid deposition measurements. Thereafter the birds were euthanised, blood samples were collected and liver, breast and thigh muscle lipid deposition was determined. Female quail on both diets had significantly higher plasma triglyceride concentrations (p 0.05) compared with their male counterparts. No significant differences in plasma triglyceride concentrations were observed after the OFLTs. Female quail had significantly heavier liver masses compared with the males but there was no significant difference in the liver lipid content per gram liver mass. Female quail on the HFD had higher lipid content (p 0.05) in the breast muscle compared with their male counterparts whilst male quail on the HFD had higher lipid content (p 0.05) in the thigh muscle in comparison with both males and females on the standard diet. Dietary supplementation with 10% canola oil did not alter gastrointestinal tract lipid absorption, but it caused differences between the sexes in muscle lipid accumulation, the physiological significance of which requires further investigation.
Competencias psicosociales para la convivencia escolar libre de violencia: Experiencia en una primaria pública de Mérida, Yucatán, México
Authors: Baquedano Cinthia , Echeverría Rebelín
Published: May 2013

En este artículo se describe y analiza una experiencia de intervención en competencias psicosociales para mejorar la convivencia escolar libre de violencia en una primaria pública de Mérida, Yucatán, México. La metodología se basa en la Investigación Acción Participativa con técnicas comunitarias participativas, entrevistas y observaciones. Participaron todos los estudiantes, 54 niñas y 57 niños, docentes y directivos del plantel. Se evidencia la presencia de violencia escolar física y verbal entre pares y el desconocimiento de las profesoras acerca de estrategias para el manejo de dicha situación, limitándose a prácticas conductuales. La intervención con los niños se centró en el desarrollo de competencias como autoconocimiento, empatía, respeto a la diversidad, colaboración-cooperación y resolución de conflictos. Con las maestras el objetivo fue compartir herramientas metodológicas para el desarrollo de dichas competencias. Se discuten los resultados  en cuanto a sus objetivos, metodología, técnicas y contribuciones de cada competencia social a la convivencia social libre de violencia.
Representaciones sociales en torno a equidad, acceso y adaptación en educación universitaria
Authors: Arancibia Susana , Rodríguez German , Fritis Romina , Tenorio Nitza , Poblete Héctor
Published: May 2013

Presentamos un estudio analítico/relacional en el que, a partir del discurso de estudiantes universitarios, se reconstruyen sus representaciones sociales (RS) en torno a equidad en educación, acceso y adaptación universitaria. Se utilizó una metodología cualitativa, aplicando entrevistas individuales y grupales a una muestra de 11 estudiantes universitarios de la ciudad de Antofagasta. Los resultados indican que, en el actual contexto educacional precario e inequitativo, las RS de los participantes en torno a acceso y adaptación en educación superior emergen vinculadas a sus propias trayectorias educativas y se nuclean en torno a sus construcciones sobre equidad/inequidad en educación. Estar en el sistema universitario supone la convivencia con personas de diferente nivel socioeconómico y con distintas posiciones de poder formal, relaciones en las que surge la discriminación como obstaculizador de la permanencia en la universidad.
Emociones como predictores del perdón en el contexto de la violación a los Derechos Humanos en Chile
Authors: Cárdenas Castro Manuel , Ascorra Paula , San Martín Marcela , Rodríguez Marcela , Páez Darío
Published: May 2013

Se han utilizado datos de una muestra de personas afectadas y no afectadas por la violencia política en Chile (N=1267) para estudiar el rol predictor de las emociones  sobre las creencias de perdón. El análisis de regresión múltiple realizado indica que el efecto de las emociones evaluadas, si bien significativo estadísticamente, es poco relevante para la muestra general (R2=0.05). En las víctimas directas el valor del coeficiente de regresión es más elevado que para los otros grupos (R2=0.11). Las emociones que más contribuyen a la explicación son la ira (β=-0.30), el dolor (β=0.26), y la esperanza (β=0.20), indicando que a menores niveles de ira y mayores de dolor y esperanza, mayor es el acuerdo con que las víctimas de la violencia política lograrán perdonar a quienes les han hecho daño en el pasado.
Evaluation of seasonal atmosphere–biosphere exchange estimations with TCCON measurements
Authors: Messerschmidt J. , Parazoo N. , Wunch D. , Deutscher N. M. , Roehl C. , Warneke T. , Wennberg P. O.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. We evaluate three estimates of the atmosphere-biosphere exchange against total column CO2 observations from the Total Carbon Column Observing Network (TCCON). Using the GEOS-Chem transport model, we produce forward simulations of atmospheric CO2 concentrations for the 2006–2010 time period using the Carnegie-Ames-Stanford Approach (CASA), the Simple Biosphere (SiB) and the GBiome-BGC models. Large differences in the CO2 simulations result from the choice of the atmosphere-biosphere model. We evaluate the seasonal cycle phase, amplitude and shape of the simulations. The version of CASA currently used as the a priori model by the GEOS-Chem carbon cycle community poorly represents the season cycle in total column CO2. Consistent with earlier studies, enhancing the CO2 uptake in the boreal forest and shifting the onset of the growing season earlier significantly improve the simulated seasonal CO2 cycle using CASA estimates. The SiB model gives a better representation of the seasonal cycle dynamics. The difference in the seasonality of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) between these models is not the absolute gross primary productivity (GPP), but rather the differential phasing of ecosystem respiration (RE) with respect to GPP between these models.
Long term in-situ observations of biomass burning aerosol at a high altitude station in Venezuela – sources, impacts and inter annual variability
Authors: Hamburger T. , Matisāns M. , Tunved P. , Ström J. , Calderon S. , Hoffmann P. , Hochschild G. , Gross J. , Schmeissner T. , Krejci R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. First long-term observations of South American biomass burning aerosol within the tropical lower free troposphere are presented. The observations were conducted between 2007 and 2009 at a high altitude station (4765 m a.s.l.) on the Pico Espejo, Venezuela. Sub-micron aerosol volume, number concentrations of primary particles and particle absorption were observed. Orographic lifting and shallow convection leads to a distinct diurnal cycle at the station. It enables measurements within the lower free troposphere during night time and observations of boundary layer air masses during day time and at their transitional regions. The seasonal cycle is defined by a wet rainy season and a dry biomass burning season. The particle load of biomass burning aerosol is dominated by fires in the Venezuelan savannah. Increases of aerosol concentrations could not be linked to long-range transport of biomass burning plumes from the Amazon basin or Africa due to effective wet scavenging of particles. Highest particle concentrations were observed within boundary layer air masses during the dry season. Ambient sub-micron aerosol volume reached 1.4 ± 1.3 μm3 cm−3, heated (300 °C) particle number concentrations 510 ± 420 cm−3 and the absorption coefficient 0.91 ± 1.2 Mm−1. The respective concentrations were lowest within the lower free troposphere during the wet season and averaged at 0.19 ± 0.25 μm3 cm−3, 150 ± 94 cm−3 and 0.15 ± 0.26 Mm−1. A decrease of particle concentrations during the dry seasons from 2007–2009 could be connected to a decrease in fire activity in the wider region of Venezuela using MODIS satellite observations. The variability of biomass burning is most likely linked to the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). Low biomass burning activity in the Venezuelan savannah was observed to follow La Niña conditions, high biomass burning activity followed El Niño conditions.
The global impact of the transport sectors on atmospheric aerosol: simulations for year 2000 emissions
Authors: Righi M. , Hendricks J. , Sausen R.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. We use the EMAC-MADE global aerosol model to quantify the impact of transport emissions (land transport, shipping and aviation) on global aerosol. We consider a present-day (2000) scenario and the CMIP5 emission dataset developed in support of the IPCC Fifth Assessment Report. The model takes also into account particle number emissions, which are derived from mass emissions under different assumptions on the size distribution of particles emitted by the three transport sectors. Additional sensitivity experiments are performed to quantify the effects of the uncertainties behind such assumptions. The model simulations show that the impact of the transport sectors closely matches the emission patterns. Land transport is the most important source of black carbon pollution in USA, Europe and Arabian Peninsula. Shipping strongly contributes to aerosol sulfate concentrations along the most-traveled routes of the northern Atlantic and northern Pacific oceans, with a significant impact along the coastlines. The effect of aviation is mostly confined to the upper-troposphere (7–12 km), in the northern mid-latitudes, although significant effects are also simulated at the ground, due to the emissions from landing and take-off cycles. The transport-induced perturbations to particle number concentrations are very sensitive to the assumptions on the size distribution of emitted particles, with the largest uncertainties obtained for the land transport sector. The simulated climate impacts, due to aerosol direct and indirect effects, are strongest for the shipping sector, as a consequence of the large impact of sulfate aerosol on low marine clouds and their optical properties.
Nabro volcano aerosol in the stratosphere over Georgia, South Caucasus from ground-based spectrometry of twilight sky brightness
Authors: Mateshvili N. , Fussen D. , Mateshvili G. , Mateshvili I. , Vanhellemont F. , Kyrölä E. , Tukiainen S. , Kujanpää J. , Bingen C. , Robert C. , Tétard C. , Dekemper E.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Ground-based spectral measurements of twilight sky brightness were carried out between October 2009 and August 2011 in Georgia, South Caucasus. The algorithm which allowed to retrieve the lower stratospheric and upper tropospheric aerosol extinction profiles was developed. The Monte-Carlo technique was used to correctly represent multiple scattering in a spherical atmosphere. The estimated stratospheric aerosol optical depths at a wavelength of 780 nm were: 3.0 × 10−3 ± 1 × 10 −3 (31 August 2009–15 January 2011) and 1.1 × 10−2 ± 3 × 10−3 (18 July 2011–03 August 2011, 10 observations). The first optical depth value corresponds to the background stratospheric aerosol level, the last one to the volcanically disturbed one after the Nabro eruption in June 2011. Reconsideration of measurements acquired soon after the Pinatubo eruption in 1991 allowed to model the phenomenon of the "second purple light", a twilight sky brightness enhancement at large solar zenith angles (97–102°). Monte-Carlo modeling reveals that the second purple light is caused by multiple scattering in the stratospheric aerosol layer. The modeling also shows that, assuming a hypothetical mesospheric aerosol layer with optical extinction comparable to typical noctilucent cloud values, a measurable twilight sky brightness increase at wavelength 440 nm follows at solar zenith angles 98–99°.
A comprehensive benchmarking system for evaluating global vegetation models
Authors: Kelley D. I. , Prentice I. C. , Harrison S. P. , Wang H. , Simard M. , Fisher J. B. , Willis K. O.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. We present a benchmark system for global vegetation models. This system provides a quantitative evaluation of multiple simulated vegetation properties, including primary production; seasonal net ecosystem production; vegetation cover; composition and height; fire regime; and runoff. The benchmarks are derived from remotely sensed gridded datasets and site-based observations. The datasets allow comparisons of annual average conditions and seasonal and inter-annual variability, and they allow the impact of spatial and temporal biases in means and variability to be assessed separately. Specifically designed metrics quantify model performance for each process, and are compared to scores based on the temporal or spatial mean value of the observations and a "random" model produced by bootstrap resampling of the observations. The benchmark system is applied to three models: a simple light-use efficiency and water-balance model (the Simple Diagnostic Biosphere Model: SDBM), the Lund-Potsdam-Jena (LPJ) and Land Processes and eXchanges (LPX) dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs). In general, the SDBM performs better than either of the DGVMs. It reproduces independent measurements of net primary production (NPP) but underestimates the amplitude of the observed CO2 seasonal cycle. The two DGVMs show little difference for most benchmarks (including the inter-annual variability in the growth rate and seasonal cycle of atmospheric CO2), but LPX represents burnt fraction demonstrably more accurately. Benchmarking also identified several weaknesses common to both DGVMs. The benchmarking system provides a quantitative approach for evaluating how adequately processes are represented in a model, identifying errors and biases, tracking improvements in performance through model development, and discriminating among models. Adoption of such a system would do much to improve confidence in terrestrial model predictions of climate change impacts and feedbacks.
Physiological compensation for environmental acidification is limited in the deep-sea urchin Strongylocentrotus fragilis
Authors: Taylor J. R. , Lovera C. , Whaling P. J. , Buck K. R. , Pane E. F. , Barry J. P.
Published: May 2013

Abstract. Anthropogenic CO2 is now reaching depths over 1000 m in the Eastern Pacific, overlapping the Oxygen Minimum Zone (OMZ). Deep-sea animals – particularly, calcifiers – are suspected to be especially sensitive to environmental acidification associated with global climate change. We have investigated the effects of hypercapnia and hypoxia on the deep-sea urchin Strongylocentrotus fragilis, during two long-term exposure experiments (1 month and 4 month) at three levels of reduced pH at in situ O2 levels of approx. 10% saturation, and also to control pH at 100% O2 saturation. During the first experiment, internal acid-base balance was investigated during a one-month exposure; results show S. fragilis has limited ability to compensate for the respiratory acidosis brought on by reduced pH, due in part to low non-bicarbonate extracellular fluid buffering capacity. During the second experiment, longer-term effects of hypercapnia and variable O2 on locomotion, feeding, growth, and gonadosomatic index (GSI) were investigated; results show significant mortality and correlation of all measured parameters with environmental acidification at pH 6.6. Transient adverse effects on locomotion and feeding were seen at pH 7.2, without compromise of growth or GSI. Based on the expected changes in ocean pH and oxygen, results suggest extinction of S. fragilis in the eastern North Pacific is unlikely. Rather, we expect a shoaling and contraction of its bathymetric range.