bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential effect of long versus short wavelength light exposure on pupillary re‐dilation in patients with outer retinal disease
Authors: Léon Lorette , Crippa Sylvain V , Borruat François‐Xavier , Kawasaki Aki
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background:  In patients with outer retinal degeneration, a differential pupil response to long wavelength (red) versus short wavelength (blue) light stimulation has been previously observed. The goal of this study was to quantify differences in the pupillary re‐dilation following exposure to red versus blue light in patients with outer retinal disease and compare them with patients with optic neuropathy and with healthy subjects.

Design:  Prospective comparative cohort study.

Participants:  Twenty‐three patients with outer retinal disease, 13 patients with optic neuropathy and 14 normal subjects.

Methods:  Subjects were tested using continuous red and blue light stimulation at three intensities (1, 10 and 100 cd/m2) for 13 s per intensity. Pupillary re‐dilation dynamics following the brightest intensity was analysed and compared between the three groups.

Main Outcome Measures:  The parameters of pupil re‐dilation used in this study were: time to recover 90% of baseline size; mean pupil size at early and late phases of re‐dilation; and differential re‐dilation time for blue versus red light.

Results:  Patients with outer retinal disease showed a pupil that tended to stay smaller after light termination and thus had a longer time to recovery. The differential re‐dilation time was significantly greater in patients with outer retinal disease (median = 28.0 s, P < 0.0001) compared with controls and patients with optic neuropathy.

Conclusions:  A differential response of pupil re‐dilation following red versus blue light stimulation is present in patients with outer retinal disease but is not found in normal eyes or among patients with visual loss from optic neuropathy.
Prospective analysis of visual outcomes using apodized, diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses following phacoemulsification for cataract or clear lens extraction
Authors: Altaie Rasha , Ring C Peter , Morarji Jasha , Patel Dipika V , McGhee Charles NJ
Published: August 2011

Abstract

Background:  To evaluate efficacy, safety and predictability of apodized, diffractive multifocal intraocular lenses.

Design:  Prospective, observational study.

Participants or Sample:  Two hundred three patients (363 eyes) underwent surgery for cataract (54.8%) or clear lens extraction (45.2%).

Methods:  A study of consecutive patients undergoing lens extraction with insertion of the AcrySof Natural ReSTOR intraocular lens (SN60D3). Assessment included: refraction, corneal topography, biometry, monocular and binocular uncorrected and best spectacle corrected distance and near visual acuity.

Main Outcome Measures:  Visual acuity, spectacle dependence.

Results:  Mean preoperative best corrected visual acuity was 6/12 (cataract) and 6/6 (clear lens extraction). One hundred sixty‐one (98.2%) of the clear lens extraction group were hyperopic and presbyopic (mean spherical equivalent +4.25±3.5D). Postoperatively uncorrected visual acuity was ≥6/12 in 96.5% of eyes (51.9% ≥6/6) and ≥ N5 in 95% of eyes. At 6 months, 182 eyes (91.4%) (cataract) and 137 eyes (83.5%) (clear lens extraction) were ≤0.50 D of target spherical equivalent. Spectacle independence was reported in 81.9% (n = 168). Minor halos or other visual phenomena were reported in 10.2%. No subjects required intraocular lens exchange. Safety index at 6 months was 2.5 and 1.17 for cataract and clear lens extraction, respectively.

Conclusions:  The apodized, diffractive multifocal intraocular lens predictably provided excellent near uncorrected visual acuity and good distance uncorrected visual acuity following cataract and clear lens extraction surgery with a high rate of spectacle independence. A minority of subjects note halos and other visual phenomena that may be related to intraocular lens design.
Lightweight design of vehicle components based on strengthening effects of low‐amplitude loads below fatigue limit
Authors: SONGLIN Z. , XI L.
Published: August 2011

A new lightweight design method for vehicle components is proposed based on the strengthening effects of low‐amplitude loads below the fatigue limit. The new method is technically based on the strength feature of strengthening and damaging of vehicle components under loading spectrum, while combining dynamic strength equations with the residual strength of vehicle components. It ensures the maximum exploitation of the material's strength potential and fully realises the lightweight design of vehicle components at a low cost. As an application of the new lightweight design method, a light truck's front axle was redesigned. The lightweight potential of the front axle was first estimated by fatigue and static strength experiments of four‐point bending. Then the lightweight design was realised by finite element analysis and experimental results. The weight of this front axle was reduced by 5.5 kg.
Intranasal administration of insulin to the brain impacts cognitive function and peripheral metabolism
Authors: Ott V. , Benedict C. , Schultes B. , Born J. , Hallschmid M.
Published: August 2011

In recent years, the central nervous system (CNS) has emerged as a principle site of insulin action. This notion is supported by studies in animals relying on intracerebroventricular insulin infusion and by experiments in humans that make use of the intranasal pathway of insulin administration to the brain. Employing neurobehavioural and metabolic measurements as well as functional imaging techniques, these studies have provided insight into a broad range of central and peripheral effects of brain insulin. The present review focusses on CNS effects of insulin administered via the intranasal route on cognition, in particular memory function, and whole‐body energy homeostasis including glucose metabolism. Furthermore, evidence is reviewed that suggests a pathophysiological role of impaired brain insulin signaling in obesity and type 2 diabetes, which are hallmarked by peripheral and possibly central nervous insulin resistance, as well as in conditions such as Alzheimer's disease where CNS insulin resistance might contribute to cognitive dysfunction.
Histology of structures used in territorial combat by Borneo’s ‘exploding ants’
Authors: Davidson Diane W. , Salim Kamariah A. , Billen Johan
Published: August 2011

Davidson, D.W., Salim, K.A. and Billen, J. 2011. Histology of structures used in territorial combat by Borneo’s ‘exploding ants’. —Acta Zoologica (Stockholm) 93: 487–491.

Histological studies of the hypertrophied structures of Borneo’s ‘exploding ants’ confirm homology with mandibular glands; reservoirs (only) are hypertrophied as storage structures. The general anatomical organization and ultrastructure of the glands is similar to that in other ant species. Development of secretory structures is not unusually great, and secretory cells are apparently confined to the head. These results suggest gradual production of mandibular gland compounds and filling of reservoirs and are consistent with known and hypothesized roles of mandibular glands and their products.
Cultural Intelligence and International Leadership Potential: The Importance of Contact for Members of the Majority
Authors: Kim You Jin , Van Dyne Linn
Published: August 2011

Integrating distinctiveness theory and contact theory, we develop a conceptual model proposing that prior intercultural contact has mediated effects on international leadership potential via cultural intelligence—but that these effects are stronger for majorities. Results of two samples of working adults, using both self‐report (n= 441, Study 1) and matched employee‐observer (n= 181, Study 2) data provide strong support for the model. Cultural intelligence mediates the effects of prior intercultural contact on international leadership potential. Further, moderated mediation analyses demonstrate that cultural intelligence mediates the relationship between prior intercultural contact and international leadership potential for majorities, but not for minorities. The current study offers contributions to theory and practice in at least two ways. First, the proposed model is theoretically important because it provides a more complete picture of predictors of international leadership potential and it reconciles prior inconsistent findings by showing the mediating role of cultural intelligence and moderating role of minority status. Second, the study adds to the increasing evidence suggesting that prior intercultural contact and cultural intelligence are meaningful criteria for developing international leaders. More important, results show that prior intercultural contact is especially important for majorities.
Photoselective vaporization of the prostate: pursuing good indications based on the results of 400 Japanese patients
Authors: Otsuki Hideo , Kuwahara Yoshitaka , Tsukamoto Takuji , Nakamura Kenzo , Shiroki Ryoichi , Hoshinaga Kiyotaka
Published: August 2011

Study Type – Therapy (individual cohort)

Level of Evidence 2b

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Photoselective vaporization of prostate (PVP) with a KTP laser is safer than TURP and has comparable efficacy to TURP. But long‐term durability and suitable amount of vaporization have been unknown. We investigated 400 Japanese patients after PVP regarding prostate volume. The mean reduction rate of prostate size was 43.2% (21.8 mL), which was achieved with 273.5 kj of KTP energy on average. A larger absolute volume reduction in patients with larger prostates was associated with greater improvements of objective urinary function parameters and symptoms score reduction.

OBJECTIVE

To investigate good indications of photoselective vaporization of the prostate (PVP) by retrospective evaluation of its efficacy in relation to prostate volume.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A cohort of 400 patients had International Prostate Symptoms Score (IPSS), Quality of Life (QoL) score, urinary peak flow (Qmax), and prostate volume (Pvol), assessed before and after surgery.

Changes of outcome variables were compared among four groups classified according to preoperative prostate volume: <30 mL (group A), ≥30 and <50 mL (group B), ≥50 and <70 mL (group C), and >70 mL (group D).

RESULTS

Operating times and amounts of energy applied were 44.2 min and 159 kJ, 67.7 min and 268 kJ, 111 min and 409 kJ, and 171 min and 604 kJ in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively.

All variables improved significantly and immediately, and remained for more than 12 months.

Investigation of groups classified by prostate size demonstrated that IPSS and QoL score decreased and improvement rate of Qmax rose as prostate volume increased.

Changes of Pvol were from 24.5 mL to 13.2 mL (−46.1%), from 39.8 mL to 22.9 mL (−42.4%), from 58.4 mL to 32.8 mL (−43.8%), and from 92.1 mL to 53.8 mL (−41.5%) in groups A, B, C, and D, respectively. Overall the Pvol reduction rate was 43.2%, and no significant differences were observed in reduction ratios among the groups.

Complications were minimal, but bladder neck contracture arose in 16 cases with a smaller prostate.

CONCLUSION

Whilst the percentage reduction in volume was similar across the groups, the larger absolute volume reduction in patients with larger prostates was associated with greater improvement in objective urinary function variables, and with symptom score reduction.
Financial Student Aid and Enrollment in Higher Education: New Evidence from Germany*
Authors: Steiner Viktor , Wrohlich Katharina
Published: August 2011

Means‐tested student aid might affect enrollment in higher education. To derive the potential influence of student aid, we use a tax‐benefit microsimulation model. The effect is a non‐linear function of parental income, with variation as a result of bracket creeping and various reforms. Therefore, the effect of student aid on enrollment can be separated from the effects of income and other family characteristics. Using the German Socio‐Economic Panel, we find a small but significant positive effect, similar in size to the effects reported in previous studies for European countries but smaller than in the US.
Peer Nominations of Emotional Expressivity Among Urban Children: Social and Psychological Correlates
Authors: Perry‐Parrish Carisa , Waasdorp Tracy E. , Bradshaw Catherine P.
Published: August 2011

The current study examined associations between peer nominations of children's expression of negative emotions and psychological, social, and behavioral correlates in a sample of 523 first graders. Children (85 percent African‐American) completed a peer nomination measure for expressing negative emotions. In addition, three other domains of functioning were assessed using multiple raters: internalizing symptoms (self, parent), externalizing behavior (parent, teacher), and social competence (parent, teacher). Regression analyses indicated that peer nominations of negative emotions predicted higher levels of teacher‐rated externalizing behavior and lower levels of teacher‐rated social competence. Peer nominations of emotions were significantly associated with teacher ratings but unrelated to self‐ and parent‐report measures. Adding to a small but growing literature, our findings underscore the importance of assessing peer perceptions of children's emotional expressivity and their associations to social and psychological functioning in an urban, predominantly African‐American sample.
Temperamental, Parental, and Contextual Contributors to Early‐emerging Internalizing Problems: A New Integrative Analysis Approach
Authors: Mills Rosemary S. L. , Hastings Paul D. , Helm Jonathan , Serbin Lisa A. , Etezadi Jamshid , Stack Dale M. , Schwartzman Alex E. , Li Hai Hong
Published: August 2011

This study evaluated a comprehensive model of factors associated with internalizing problems (IP) in early childhood, hypothesizing direct, mediated, and moderated pathways linking child temperamental inhibition, maternal overcontrol and rejection, and contextual stressors to IP. In a novel approach, three samples were integrated to form a large sample (N=500) of Canadian children (2–6 years; M=3.95 years; SD=.80). Items tapping into the same constructs across samples were used to create parallel measures of inhibited temperament, maternal positive, critical, and punitive parenting, maternal negative emotionality, family socioeconomic and structural stressors, and child's IP. Multiple‐groups structural equation modeling indicated that associations were invariant across samples and did not differ for boys and girls. Child inhibition, less positive and more critical parenting, maternal negative emotionality, and family socioeconomic disadvantage were found to have direct associations with IP. In addition, maternal negative emotionality was associated with IP through more critical parenting, and both maternal negative emotionality and socioeconomic stress were associated with IP through less positive parenting. Results highlight the multiple independent and cumulative risk factors for early IP and demonstrate the power of integrating data across developmental studies.
The injured and diseased farmer: occupational health, embodiment and technologies of harm and care
Authors: Lovelock Kirsten
Published: August 2011

Occupational health in agriculture is a significant public health issue in industrialised agricultural nations. This article reports on 26 in‐depth interviews with farmers throughout New Zealand. Farmers are exposed to a range of technologies which place them at risk of injury and disease and/or prevent injury and disease. In this article these technologies are respectively conceptualised as technologies of harm and technologies of care. Despite being vulnerable to high rates of injury, fatality and occupationally related diseases the uptake of technologies of care amongst farmers in New Zealand is poor. The analysis draws on body theory to explore the meaning attached to injury and disease and to examine the socio‐cultural field of agriculture. It is argued that the key features of subjective embodiment and social, cultural and symbolic capital can undermine the uptake of technologies of care, ensuring poor occupational health outcomes on New Zealand farms.
Improved multivariate portmanteau test
Authors: Mahdi Esam , Ian McLeod A.
Published: August 2011

A new portmanteau diagnostic test for vector autoregressive moving average (VARMA) models that is based on the determinant of the standardized multivariate residual autocorrelations is derived. The new test statistic may be considered an extension of the univariate portmanteau test statistic suggested by Peňa and Rodríguez (2002). The asymptotic distribution of the test statistic is derived as well as a chi‐square approximation. However, the Monte–Carlo test is recommended unless the series is very long. Extensive simulation experiments demonstrate the usefulness of this test as well as its improved power performance compared to widely used previous multivariate portmanteau diagnostic check. Two illustrative applications are given.
Fear of Crime in Expatriate Australians in Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam
Authors: Coyne John William , Bell Peter
Published: August 2011

This qualitative study addresses the primary question of what changes, or impacts upon, fear of crime in six Australian expatriates living in Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) Vietnam. The research paid particular attention to the differences in fear of crime when respondents became expatriates, and the impact of incivilities and access to media. Responses indicate that after a period of adjustment, expatriates feel safer in HCMC than in Australia. Research findings support the existing fear of crime theories and highlight the importance of context in predicting the impact of such factors as media and incivilities.
Reporting of Health Problems and Pain by Adults with An Intellectual Disability and by their Carers
Authors: Turk Vicky , Khattran Sukhjinder , Kerry Sally , Corney Roslyn , Painter Kerry
Published: August 2011

Background  Information about the health of people with ID is usually obtained from professionals and carers. Little is known about what health problems people with ID report they experience, and whether this differs from their carers’ reports.

Method  A secondary analysis of health information provided by participants with ID and/or their matched carers as part of a health intervention RCT using inclusive methodology.

Results  Health information from 98 participants with ID is presented. Less than three quarters of participants said they had someone to talk to about their health (68/93). Pain was reported by 67% (66/98) with 18% (17/95) saying they did not tell anyone when in pain, and 27% (26/97) they did not take pain relief medication. Matched carer data for 59 participants indicated similar numbers of health problems reported by participants as by their carers when prompted with specific problems. Participants reported more headaches and allergies, but fewer weight problems than their carers. Concordance was poor for many problems.

Conclusion  Participants reported experiencing a lot of health and mental health problems including pain. This information from adults with ID is rarely collected, either in research or in routine clinical practice.
Synchronicity and the meaning‐making psyche
Authors: Colman Warren
Published: August 2011

Abstract:  This paper contrasts Jung's account of synchronicity as evidence of an objective principle of meaning in Nature with a view that emphasizes human meaning‐making. All synchronicities generate indicative signs but only where this becomes a ‘living symbol’ of a transcendent intentionality at work in a living universe does synchronicity generate the kind of symbolic meaning that led Jung to posit the existence of a Universal Mind. This is regarded as a form of personal, experiential knowledge belonging to the ‘imaginal world of meaning’ characteristic of the ‘primordial mind’, as opposed to the ‘rational world of knowledge’ in which Jung attempted to present his experiences as if they were empirically and publicly verifiable. Whereas rational knowledge depends on a form of meaning in which causal chains and logical links are paramount, imaginal meaning is generated by forms of congruent correspondence—a feature that synchronicity shares with metaphor and symbol—and the creation of narratives by means of retroactive organization of its constituent elements.
Activation of steroid‐sensitive TRPM3 channels potentiates glutamatergic transmission at cerebellar Purkinje neurons from developing rats
Authors: Zamudio‐Bulcock Paula A. , Everett Julie , Harteneck Christian , Valenzuela C. Fernando
Published: August 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 119, 474–485.

The functional implications of transient receptor potential melastatin 3 (TRPM3) activation, the most recently described member of the melastatin subfamily of cation permeable TRP channels, have begun to be elucidated in recent years. The discovery of TRPM3 activation by the steroid pregnenolone sulfate (PregS) has shed new light on the physiological role of this channel. For example, TRPM3 activation enhances insulin secretion from β pancreatic cells, induces contraction of vascular smooth muscle, and is also involved in the detection of noxious heat. Although TRPM3 expression has been detected in several regions of the developing and mature brain, little is known about the roles of TRPM3 in brain physiology. In this study, we demonstrate the abundant expression of TRPM3 steroid‐sensitive channels in the developing cerebellar cortex. We also show that TRPM3‐like channels are expressed at glutamatergic synapses in neonatal Purkinje cells. We recently showed that PregS potentiates spontaneous glutamate release onto neonatal Purkinje cells during a period of active glutamatergic synapse formation; we now show that this effect of PregS is mediated by TRPM3‐like channels. Mefenamic acid, a recently discovered TRPM3 antagonist, blocked the effect of PregS on glutamate release. The PregS effect on glutamate release was mimicked by other TRPM3 agonists (nifedipine and epipregnanolone sulfate) but not by a TRMP3‐inactive steroid (progesterone). Our findings identify TRPM3 channels as novel modulators of glutamatergic transmission in the developing brain.
Aperture referral in heterocentric astigmatic systems
Authors: Harris William F
Published: August 2011

Citation information: Harris WF. Aperture referral in heterocentric astigmatic systems. Ophthalmic Physiol Opt 2011, 31, 603–614. doi: 10.1111/j.1475‐1313.2011.00860.x

Background:  Retinal blur patch, effective corneal patch, projective field, field of view and other concepts are usually regarded as disjoint concepts to be treated separately. However they have in common the fact that an aperture, often the pupil of the eye, has its effect at some other longitudinal position. Here the effect is termed aperture referral.

Purpose:  To develop a complete and general theory of aperture referral under which many ostensibly‐distinct aperture‐dependent concepts become unified and of which these concepts become particular applications. The theory allows for apertures to be elliptical and decentred and refracting surfaces in an eye or any other optical system to be astigmatic, heterocentric and tilted.

Methods:  The optical model used is linear optics, a three‐dimensional generalization of Gaussian optics. Positional and inclinational invariants are defined along a ray through an arbitrary optical system. A pencil of rays through a system is defined by an object or image point and an aperture defines a subset of the pencil called a restricted pencil.

Results:  Invariants are derived for four cases: an object and an image point at finite and at infinite distances. Formulae are obtained for the generalized magnification and transverse translation and for the geometry and location of an aperture referred to any other transverse plane.

Conclusions:  A restricted pencil is defined by an aperture and an object or image point. The intersection of the restricted pencil with a transverse plane is the aperture referred to that transverse plane. Many concepts, including effective corneal patch, retinal blur patch, projective field and visual field, can now be treated routinely as special cases of the general theory: having identified the aperture, the referred aperture and the referring point one applies the general formulae directly. The formulae are exact in linear optics, explicit and give insight into relationships.
Long‐term pig manure application reduces the requirement of chemical phosphorus and potassium in two rice–wheat sites in subtropical China
Authors: Duan Y. , Xu M. , He X. , Li S. , Sun X.
Published: August 2011

Producing optimal grain yields while reducing adverse environmental impacts of over‐fertilization is essential in intensive, but sustainable, farming systems. We investigated the effects of long‐term (1982–2005) application of chemical nitrogen (N), N + chemical phosphorus (P) and N + P + chemical potassium (K) on grain yield, nitrogen recovery efficiency (NRE) and N losses in two rice–wheat sites in subtropical China where pig manure was applied (Suining and Wuchang). Four (Suining) or five (Wuchang) treatments were examined: no‐fertilizer, chemical N plus manure (NM), chemical NP plus manure (NPM), chemical NPK plus manure (NPKM) or chemical NPK plus 1.6 times manure (NPKhM, Wuchang only). Fertilizers resulted in 1.5–2.5 times higher grain yields than no‐fertilizer, which led to a NRE in the range from 21.0 to 58.3%. Grain yields of rice and wheat were significantly increased by 22.6–25.9 and 34.4–37.5%, respectively, under NPM and NPKM (similar to each other) compared to NM at Suining. Yields were similar for NM, NPK, NPKM and NPKhM at Wuchang. The N accumulation and NRE among fertilizers were in the order NM < NPM = NPKM at the low amount of manure‐applied site (Suining), but NM = NPM = NPKM at the high amount of manure‐applied site (Wuchang). The ratio of N losses to total N input was 21.4–49.1% at the studied sites. Soil total N accumulated at a rate of 0.01–0.04 g/kg/yr during 1982–2005 with fertilizers and decreased or was constant in soil without fertilizer. Application of chemical P and K fertilizers could be reduced or eliminated after long‐term manure application at these two sites, while maintaining optimal grain yields and enhancing soil N accumulation.
CHARACTERIZATION OF 18TH‐CENTURY MEISSEN PORCELAIN USING SEM–EDS*
Authors: DOMONEY K. , SHORTLAND A. J. , KUHN S.
Published: August 2011

Analytical investigations of fragmented Meissen porcelains well dated to between 1725 and 1763 have been carried out using SEM–EDS. The aim of the analysis was to characterize elements in bodies, glazes and overglaze enamels in order to create a baseline data set of materials used in the manufacture of porcelain at the Meissen factory, Saxony, during the 18th century. Analyses indicate body and glaze compositions to be consistent with a post c.1720–30 date, when a change from a lime‐rich flux to a potassium‐rich flux is documented to have occurred. Overglaze enamel compositions are shown to be consistent with contemporary accounts of enamel preparations at Meissen. Overglaze enamel compositions show that mixtures of pigments, in addition to documented enamel 18th‐century preparations, were in use at Meissen between c. 1725 and 1763.
Challenging the linear forestation narrative in the Neo‐tropic: regional patterns and processes of deforestation and regeneration in southern Mexico
Authors: KOLB MELANIE , GALICIA LEOPOLDO
Published: August 2011

In the Neotropics increased rates of land use and land cover change (LULCC) and a strong deforestation trend in the second half of the twentieth century have caused environmental degradation and biodiversity loss. This study analysed patterns and processes of LULCC and deforestation for the Grijalva–Usumacinta watershed, one of the hydrologically and biologically most important watersheds in southern Mexico in face of the discussion about beginning forest transitions in the Neotropics. Maps of land use and land cover for 1992, 2002 and 2007 derived from satellite and aerial imagery were analysed to test the hypothesis of changing trends on a regional scale. Change rates and probabilities were calculated for two time periods and dominant LULCC processes were identified. LULCC is complex and cannot be explained by the predominant linear deforestation narrative alone. A crucial finding was an unusually high rate of forest degradation for all primary forest types, being 1.7 times the area of forest deforestation; and that deforestation processes occur mainly in secondary forests. Agricultural activities fostered by public policies are the principal drivers for LULCC, among which pastures have the highest impact on deforestation. Deforestation and LULCC rates and probabilities have stagnated, and natural reforestation has increased. Although these trends are essential for the onset of forest transition, deforestation and degradation outweigh by far vegetation regrowth.
AQUATIC PLANT SPECIATION AFFECTED BY DIVERSIFYING SELECTION OF ORGANELLE DNA REGIONS1
Authors: Kato Syou , Misawa Kazuharu , Takahashi Fumio , Sakayama Hidetoshi , Sano Satomi , Kosuge Keiko , Kasai Fumie , Watanabe Makoto M. , Tanaka Jiro , Nozaki Hisayoshi
Published: August 2011

Many of the genes that control photosynthesis are carried in the chloroplast. These genes differ among species. However, evidence has yet to be reported revealing the involvement of organelle genes in the initial stages of plant speciation. To elucidate the molecular basis of aquatic plant speciation, we focused on the unique plant species Chara braunii C. C. Gmel. that inhabits both shallow and deep freshwater habitats and exhibits habitat‐based dimorphism of chloroplast DNA (cpDNA). Here, we examined the “shallow” and “deep” subpopulations of C. braunii using two nuclear DNA (nDNA) markers and cpDNA. Genetic differentiation between the two subpopulations was measured in both nDNA and cpDNA regions, although phylogenetic analyses suggested nuclear gene flow between subpopulations. Neutrality tests based on Tajima’s D demonstrated diversifying selection acting on organelle DNA regions. Furthermore, both “shallow” and “deep” haplotypes of cpDNA detected in cultures originating from bottom soils of three deep environments suggested that migration of oospores (dormant zygotes) between the two habitats occurs irrespective of the complete habitat‐based dimorphism of cpDNA from field‐collected vegetative thalli. Therefore, the two subpopulations are highly selected by their different aquatic habitats and show prezygotic isolation, which represents an initial process of speciation affected by ecologically based divergent selection of organelle genes.
On the selection of phylogenetic eigenvectors for ecological analyses
Authors: Diniz‐Filho Jose Alexandre F. , Bini Luis Mauricio , Rangel Thiago Fernando , Morales‐Castilla Ignacio , Olalla‐Tárraga Miguel Á. , Rodríguez Miguel Á. , Hawkins Bradford A.
Published: August 2011

Among the statistical methods available to control for phylogenetic autocorrelation in ecological data, those based on eigenfunction analysis of the phylogenetic distance matrix among the species are becoming increasingly important tools. Here, we evaluate a range of criteria to select eigenvectors extracted from a phylogenetic distance matrix (using phylogenetic eigenvector regression, PVR) that can be used to measure the level of phylogenetic signal in ecological data and to study correlated evolution. We used a principal coordinate analysis to represent the phylogenetic relationships among 209 species of Carnivora by a series of eigenvectors, which were then used to model log‐transformed body size. We first conducted a series of PVRs in which we increased the number of eigenvectors from 1 to 70, following the sequence of their associated eigenvalues. Second, we also investigated three non‐sequential approaches based on the selection of 1) eigenvectors significantly correlated with body size, 2) eigenvectors selected by a standard stepwise algorithm, and 3) the combination of eigenvectors that minimizes the residual phylogenetic autocorrelation. We mapped the mean specific component of body size to evaluate how these selection criteria affect the interpretation of non‐phylogenetic signal in Bergmann's rule. For comparison, the same patterns were analyzed using autoregressive model (ARM) and phylogenetic generalized least‐squares (PGLS). Despite the robustness of PVR to the specific approaches used to select eigenvectors, using a relatively small number of eigenvectors may be insufficient to control phylogenetic autocorrelation, leading to flawed conclusions about patterns and processes. The method that minimizes residual autocorrelation seems to be the best choice according to different criteria. Thus, our analyses show that, when the best criterion is used to control phylogenetic structure, PVR can be a valuable tool for testing hypotheses related to heritability at the species level, phylogenetic niche conservatism and correlated evolution between ecological traits.
Ubiquitination of Substrates by Esterification
Authors: Wang Xiaoli , Herr Roger A. , Hansen Ted H.
Published: August 2011

Post‐translational modification by ubiquitination determines intracellular location and fate of numerous proteins, thus impacting a diverse array of physiologic functions. Past dogma has been that ubiquitin was only coupled to substrates by isopeptide bonds to internal lysine residues or less frequently peptide bonds to the N‐terminus. Enigmatically, however, several proteins lacking lysines had been reported to retain ubiquitin‐dependent fates. Resolution of this paradox was afforded by recent observations that ubiquitination of substrates can also occur on cysteine or serine and threonine residues by thio‐ or oxy‐ester bond formation, respectively (collectively called esterification). Although chemically possible, these bonds were considered too labile to be of physiological relevance. In this review we discuss recent evidence for the ubiquitination of protein substrates by esterification and speculate on its mechanism and its physiological importance.
Aminopeptidase‐Resistant Peptides Are Targeted to Lysosomes and Subsequently Degraded
Authors: Gillis Judith M. , Benckhuijsen Willemien , van Veen Henk , Sanz Alicia Sanz , Drijfhout Jan W. , Reits Eric A.
Published: August 2011

Most cytoplasmic and nuclear proteins are degraded via the ubiquitin‐proteasome system into peptides, which are subsequently hydrolyzed by downstream aminopeptidases. Inefficient degradation can lead to accumulation of protein fragments, and subsequent aggregation and toxicity. Whereas the role of the proteasome and the effect of its impairment on aggregation have been intensively studied, little is known about how cells deal with peptides that show resistance to degradation by aminopeptidases. Here, we introduced peptidase‐resistant peptides into living cells and show that these peptides rapidly and irreversibly accumulate into puncta in the perinuclear region of the cell. Accumulation appears to be independent of peptide sequence but is less efficient for longer peptides. The puncta colocalize with autophagosomal and lysosomal markers, suggesting that these peptides end up within lysosomes via macroautophagy. Surprisingly, the peptides still accumulate within lysosomes when macroautophagy is impaired, suggesting a trafficking route independent of macroautophagy. Upon lysosomal uptake, peptides are degraded, suggesting that cells can clear peptidase‐resistant proteasomal products by an alternative pathway, which targets them to lysosomes.
Phagocytosis of IgG‐Coated Polystyrene Beads by Macrophages Induces and Requires High Membrane Order
Authors: Magenau Astrid , Benzing Carola , Proschogo Nicholas , Don Anthony S. , Hejazi Leila , Karunakaran Denuja , Jessup Wendy , Gaus Katharina
Published: August 2011

The biochemical composition and biophysical properties of cell membranes are hypothesized to affect cellular processes such as phagocytosis. Here, we examined the plasma membranes of murine macrophage cell lines during the early stages of uptake of immunoglobulin G (IgG)‐coated polystyrene particles. We found that the plasma membrane undergoes rapid actin‐independent condensation to form highly ordered phagosomal membranes, the biophysical hallmark of lipid rafts. Surprisingly, these membranes are depleted of cholesterol and enriched in sphingomyelin and ceramide. Inhibition of sphingomyelinase activity impairs membrane condensation, F‐actin accumulation at phagocytic cups and particle uptake. Switching phagosomal membranes to a cholesterol‐rich environment had no effect on membrane condensation and the rate of phagocytosis. In contrast, preventing membrane condensation with the oxysterol 7‐ketocholesterol, even in the presence of ceramide, blocked F‐actin dissociation from nascent phagosomes and particle uptake. In conclusion, our results suggest that ordered membranes function to co‐ordinate F‐actin remodelling and that the biophysical properties of phagosomal membranes are essential for phagocytosis.
Resilience, persistence and relationship to standing vegetation in soil seed banks of semi‐arid Australian old fields
Authors: Scott Andrew J. , Morgan John W.
Published: August 2011

Questions: Do soil seed banks of semi‐arid grasslands reassemble after abandonment from cultivation? Do seeds of native and exotic species persist in the soil? Does time since abandonment affect compositional similarity between the vegetation and seed bank? Does the seed bank contribute to resilience in the vegetation?

Location: Native grasslands in northern Victoria, Australia.

Methods: Seed bank sampling was conducted in spring and autumn over 3 yrs, across a 100‐yr chronosequence. Species richness, composition and germinant density were determined using the seedling emergence method. Seed persistence was assessed by comparing seed densities in spring and autumn. Seed bank composition was compared with the vegetation.

Results: The spring seed bank was dominated at all stages by sedges and rushes; hence, native species richness and seed density were largely unaffected by abandonment. In autumn, grassland species contributed more to the seed bank, but richness was reduced after abandonment and showed little recovery, although seed density partially recovered. Seed bank composition showed some recovery in both seasons. Most species had low persistence in the soil. Compositional similarity between the vegetation and seed bank was greater in old fields than uncultivated grasslands in spring, but not autumn.

Conclusions: Resilience varied among seed bank parameters and seed banks had low functional importance. Patterns in the seed bank followed, rather than caused, those in the vegetation. Thus, vegetation recovery cannot rely on the seed bank and persistent seeds were not the key mechanism of resilience in the vegetation.
Knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding ageing and the elderly
Authors: Moreira Allyson Nogueira , Rocha Ênia Salles , Popoff Daniela Araújo Veloso , Vilaça Ênio Lacerda , Castilho Lia Silva , de Magalhães Cláudia Silami
Published: August 2011

doi: 10.1111/j.1741‐2358.2011.00534.x
 
Knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding ageing and the elderly

Objective:  This study was aimed to identify the knowledge and attitudes of dentists regarding ageing and the elderly.

Background:  As the population ages, there is a greater demand for differentiated care from health professionals. However, the treatment needs of the elderly population are not sufficiently addressed, particularly in developing countries.

Materials and methods:  An official list of all dentists registered in the city of Belo Horizonte, Brazil, was obtained from the Regional Dentistry Council. A questionnaire was delivered to 276 randomly selected dentists; the survey contained questions designed to characterise the sample and identify dentists’ conduct towards elderly patients. A Likert scale was used to identify knowledge regarding care for the elderly and attitudes towards ageing.

Results:  Women demonstrated more positive attitudes towards the elderly. Graduates who worked in the public sector demonstrated a greater knowledge of geriatric dentistry (p < 0.05). Attending specific continuing education courses had no influence over the dentists’ willingness to treat the elderly population. Significant associations were not found between attitudes and knowledge regarding the elderly.

Conclusion:  Dentists who worked in the public sector demonstrated a greater knowledge regarding the elderly. This knowledge did not influence attitudes towards ageing. Women demonstrated a more positive attitude regarding ageing and dental care.
The emerging era of personalized therapy in squamous cell carcinoma of the head and neck
Authors: PRYOR David I , SOLOMON Benjamin , PORCEDDU Sandro V
Published: August 2011

Over the past three decades there has been a move toward organ preservation protocols in the management of locally advanced mucosal head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (LAHNSCC) with combinations of radiotherapy (RT), chemotherapy and, more recently, biological agents. Current standard chemoradiation strategies have reached the upper limits of toxicity. In addition, the traditional one size fits all approach of grouping patients according to traditional clinicopathological features fails to take into account the vast underlying biological heterogeneity of tumors and their host. A number of recent advances such as highly conformal RT, molecular profiling and targeted agents, and improvements in treatment response assessment have set the scene for a fundamental paradigm shift toward greater tailoring of therapy with the aim of improving outcomes and reducing the burden of survivorship. This review focuses on the recognition of the prognostic value of tumor human papillomavirus (HPV) status, the incorporation of biologically targeted therapies and the evolving role of molecular imaging in predicting tumor response and prognosis in the curative management of LAHNSCC.
The role of poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase inhibitors in breast and ovarian cancer: Current status and future directions
Authors: CHIONH Fiona , MITCHELL Gillian , LINDEMAN Geoffrey J , FRIEDLANDER Michael , SCOTT Clare L
Published: August 2011

Poly adenosine diphosphate ribose polymerase (PARP) inhibitors have demonstrated single agent activity in the treatment of patients with recurrent BRCA1‐mutated and BRCA2‐mutated breast and ovarian cancers. They also appear to have a potential role as maintenance therapy following chemotherapy in patients with platinum sensitive recurrent sporadic and BRCA1/2 related high‐grade serous ovarian cancers. The concept of BRCAness raises the possibility that PARP inhibitors may be active in selected patients with homologous recombination (HR) DNA repair‐deficient tumors, even if they do not harbor a BRCA1/2 germline mutation. Further research will be required to identify the subset of patients with sporadic cancers who may benefit from PARP inhibitor therapy. Precise details on the mechanisms of action, relative potency and anti‐cancer effects of different PARP inhibitors remain to be clarified and are being investigated. PARP inhibitors are known to inhibit the base excision repair (BER) pathway but in addition, recent reports indicate that aberrant activation of the error‐prone non‐homologous end‐joining (NHEJ) pathway occurs in HR‐deficient cells and that cell death provoked by PARP inhibition is dependent on NHEJ‐induced genomic instability. Characterization of the precise molecular mechanisms responsible for PARP inhibitor activity should lead to the identification of predictive biomarkers of response and help identify which patients should be treated with PARP inhibitors. This is a very active field of research and the current status and future directions are reviewed.
Exploratory investigation of factors affecting dietetic workforce satisfaction
Authors: CODY Sarah , FERGUSON Maree , DESBROW Ben
Published: August 2011

Aim:  The purpose of the present study was to explore factors cited by metropolitan dietitians as being critical to their workforce satisfaction in the literature and a previous study.

Methods:  Twenty dietitians from three metropolitan hospitals in Brisbane, Australia, were recruited by convenience sample to participate in seven focus group sessions. Group discussion transcriptions were thematically analysed by two independent researchers.

Results:  Participants identified career progression, professional development, resource availability, team and physical environment, reward and recognition as impacting upon their satisfaction. Overwhelmingly, they identified the availability of flexitime arrangements as symbolising workplace flexibility, which was considered the most influential of satisfaction factors. Intangible forms of reward and recognition were also desired and highly valued.

Conclusions:  Workplace satisfaction among this sample of metropolitan dietitians is multifactorial. Increasing perceived flexibility in work hours may increase satisfaction. Provision of intangible reward and recognition is likely to be well accepted. Future research should involve another survey of a representative sample of practitioners and managers, with the view to developing practical initiatives to improve satisfaction and maintain service delivery.
Eating for health: Perspectives of older men who live alone
Authors: WHAM Carol A. , BOWDEN Jennifer A.
Published: August 2011

Aim:  To investigate the perspectives of older, single‐living New Zealand men towards healthy eating.

Methods:  Twelve semistructured interviews with men aged 75 to 89 years using mixed methods and a general inductive analysis approach. To enrich description, participants were assessed for nutrition risk using a validated questionnaire, Seniors in the Community: Risk Evaluation for Eating and Nutrition, and nutrition knowledge using the General Nutrition Knowledge Questionnaire.

Results:  Six of the men were assessed to be at high nutrition risk. Eating alone was the most common nutrition risk factor. The mean score for the nutrition knowledge questionnaire was 58.3 ± 12.7 out of maximum score of 110. Three core themes related to healthy eating practices emerged from the analysis. Firstly, the men were influenced by their individual circumstances. Limited finances and a lack of personal transport were barriers to healthy eating and were partially ameliorated by reliable, support networks. Secondly, a lack of nutrition knowledge and cooking skills impinged on both healthy eating and meal enjoyment. Thirdly, food‐related values held by the men impacted eating behaviours positively or negatively.

Conclusion:  The present study provides an insight into the perspectives of older men towards their food‐related activities. Past experiences shaped their approach towards healthy eating. Community programmes need to identify those at nutrition risk, provide those at need with knowledge and skills and promote meal sharing. Initiatives need to be cognisant of the food‐related values, desire for time and effort efficiency and the explicit needs and wishes of older men.