bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Structural and energetic basis of ALS-causing mutations in the atypical proline–tyrosine nuclear localization signal of the Fused in Sarcoma protein (FUS)
Authors: Zhang Zi Chao , Chook Yuh Min
Published: July 2012

Mutations in the proline/tyrosine–nuclear localization signal (PY-NLS) of the Fused in Sarcoma protein (FUS) cause amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). Here we report the crystal structure of the FUS PY-NLS bound to its nuclear import receptor Karyopherinβ2 (Kapβ2; also known as Transportin). The FUS PY-NLS occupies the structurally invariant C-terminal arch of Kapβ2, tracing a path similar to that of other characterized PY-NLSs. Unlike other PY-NLSs, which generally bind Kapβ2 in fully extended conformations, the FUS peptide is atypical as its central portion forms a 2.5-turn α-helix. The Kapβ2-binding epitopes of the FUS PY-NLS consist of an N-terminal PGKM hydrophobic motif, a central arginine-rich α-helix, and a C-terminal PY motif. ALS mutations are found almost exclusively within these epitopes. Each ALS mutation site makes multiple contacts with Kapβ2 and mutations of these residues decrease binding affinities for Kapβ2 (
K
D
for wild-type FUS PY-NLS is 9.5 nM) up to ninefold. Thermodynamic analyses of ALS mutations in the FUS PY-NLS show that the weakening of FUS-Kapβ2 binding affinity, the degree of cytoplasmic mislocalization, and ALS disease severity are correlated.
ATP-dependent conformational dynamics underlie the functional asymmetry of the replicative helicase from a minimalist eukaryote
Authors: Lyubimov Artem Y. , Costa Alessandro , Bleichert Franziska , Botchan Michael R. , Berger James M.
Published: July 2012

The heterohexameric minichromosome maintenance (MCM2–7) complex is an ATPase that serves as the central replicative helicase in eukaryotes. During initiation, the ring-shaped MCM2–7 particle is thought to open to facilitate loading onto DNA. The conformational state accessed during ring opening, the interplay between ATP binding and MCM2–7 architecture, and the use of these events in the regulation of DNA unwinding are poorly understood. To address these issues in isolation from the regulatory complexity of existing eukaryotic model systems, we investigated the structure/function relationships of a naturally minimized MCM2–7 complex from the microsporidian parasite
Encephalitozoon cuniculi
. Electron microscopy and small-angle X-ray scattering studies show that, in the absence of ATP, MCM2–7 spontaneously adopts a left-handed, open-ring structure. Nucleotide binding does not promote ring closure but does cause the particle to constrict in a two-step process that correlates with the filling of high- and low-affinity ATPase sites. Our findings support the idea that an open ring forms the default conformational state of the isolated MCM2–7 complex, and they provide a structural framework for understanding the multiphasic ATPase kinetics observed in different MCM2–7 systems.
Reading aloud and the delay of feedback: Explanations for the effectiveness of reader protocols
Authors: Lentz Leo , Pander Maat Henk
Published: July 2012

An important objective of research in information design is the validation of methods that are available for the evaluation of public information. In this article three evaluation methods using verbal self-reports are compared: think aloud reader protocols, the plus-minus method and Focus (a software tool designed to collect reader responses on documents). The results of this comparison indicate that reader protocols produce better feedback on comprehension problems than the other two methods. In a series of experiments two aspects of reader protocols are further investigated in order to explain these results. The first factor is delay of feedback, which seems to result in fewer problem detections. The second factor is reading aloud, which may result in more problem detections. These experiments indicate that delay is the key factor. Finally an eye tracking study was done in order to analyze the effect on the reading process of reading aloud and giving comments. The results indicate that reading aloud causes a delay in the reading process and the task of giving comments increases the number of times readers look back in the text while reading.
Thymocytes may persist and differentiate without any input from bone marrow progenitors
Authors: Peaudecerf Laetitia , Lemos Sara , Galgano Alessia , Krenn Gerald , Vasseur Florence , Di Santo James P. , Ezine Sophie , Rocha Benedita
Published: July 2012

Thymus transplants can correct deficiencies of the thymus epithelium caused by the complete DiGeorge syndrome or FOXN1 mutations. However, thymus transplants were never used to correct T cell–intrinsic deficiencies because it is generally believed that thymocytes have short intrinsic lifespans. This notion is based on thymus transplantation experiments where it was shown that thymus-resident cells were rapidly replaced by progenitors originating in the bone marrow. In contrast, here we show that neonatal thymi transplanted into interleukin 7 receptor–deficient hosts harbor populations with extensive capacity to self-renew, and maintain continuous thymocyte generation and export. These thymus transplants reconstitute the full diversity of peripheral T cell repertoires one month after surgery, which is the earliest time point studied. Moreover, transplantation experiments performed across major histocompatibility barriers show that allogeneic transplanted thymi are not rejected, and allogeneic cells do not induce graft-versus-host disease; transplants induced partial or total protection to infection. These results challenge the current dogma that thymocytes cannot self-renew, and indicate a potential use of neonatal thymus transplants to correct T cell–intrinsic deficiencies. Finally, as found with mature T cells, they show that thymocyte survival is determined by the competition between incoming progenitors and resident cells.
The fixed oxide trap modelling during isothermal and isochronal annealing of irradiated RADFETs
Authors: Ristić Goran S , Vasović Nikola D , Jakšić Aleksandar B
Published: July 2012

The density of fixed traps (FTs), ΔN
ft (cm−2), during isothermal annealing of irradiated radiation-sensitive field-effect transistors (RADFETs) from room temperature to 200 °C has been modelled. The modelling has shown that a simple, two-defect model (2DM), containing two defect types: one defect type for positively charged FTs (PCFTs), and another for negatively charged FTs (NCFTs), is applicable for the temperatures up to 100 °C. However, the three-defect model (3DM), which includes additional PCFT type, should be used for temperatures from 100 to 200 °C. The models describing the behaviour of NCFTs during isothermal annealing have also been analysed. The activation energies of

,

and

, for two PCFT types and one NCFT type, respectively, have been found. In addition, isochronal unannealed curves have been well fitted using logistic function. The modelling of isochronal annealing has also shown that one PCFT type up to 100 °C, and two PCFT types for 100–200 °C, respectively, are active, and additional defect(s) should be included for the temperatures higher than 200 °C. The isochronal annealing, which is significantly less time consuming than isothermal annealing, could be very good tool for the revealing of defects created by various stress types.
Lead phthalocyanine films deposited by ECR plasma-induced sublimation
Authors: Aliev V Sh , Badmaeva I A , Pokrovsky L D
Published: July 2012

Lead phthalocyanine (PbPc) thin films deposited by vacuum sublimation with Ar low-temperature electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) plasma treatment are investigated by means of reflection high-energy electron diffraction, atomic force microscopy, infrared spectroscopy, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and spectral ellipsometry. The intensity of plasma treatment is varied by the radio-frequency power input and the value of electrical bias applied to the sample. The films grown with and without plasma assistance are compared. The plasma intensity is considered to significantly influence the crystalline structure, surface morphology and film composition. At a low intensity the plasma assistance is analogous to vacuum annealing of films. At a medium intensity, a porous polymer matrix filled with PbPc in crystalline phases (monoclinic and triclinic) is formed in the films. At a high intensity, all the films consist of a compact polymer matrix, similar to a glassy solid, with small inclusions of PbPc molecules. The succession of PbPc molecule destructions in the growing film layer with plasma intensity increase is established by IR spectroscopy. The mechanism of polymer matrix formation is suggested.
Synthesis and frequency-dependent dielectric properties of epitaxial La1.875Sr0.125NiO4 thin films
Authors: Podpirka Adrian , Tselev Alexander , Ramanathan Shriram
Published: July 2012

Epitaxial thin films of La1.875Sr0.125NiO4 (lanthanum strontium nickelate, LSNO) have been synthesized by sputtering onto single crystal oxide substrates and their structural and dielectric properties are reported. High dielectric constants on the order of 107 have been measured up to 1 MHz in interdigitated capacitors with a frequency dependence that correlates with substrate imposed strain and texture. The observation of a high dielectric constant albeit with moderate loss tangent at high frequencies motivates further explorations of charge ordering phenomena in such complex oxides and serves to examine size effects on dielectric response by comparison with studies on bulk single crystal LSNO.
Tissue-Specific Components of Resistance to Aspergillus Ear Rot of Maize
Authors: Mideros Santiago X. , Windham Gary L. , Williams W. Paul , Nelson Rebecca J.
Published: July 2012

Aspergillus flavus and other Aspergillus spp. infect maize and produce aflatoxins. An important control measure is the use of resistant maize hybrids. There are several reports of maize lines that are resistant to aflatoxin accumulation but the mechanisms of resistance remain unknown. To gain a better understanding of resistance, we dissected the phenotype into 10 components: 4 pertaining to the response of silk, 4 pertaining to the response of developing kernels, and 2 pertaining to the response of mature kernels to inoculation with A. flavus. In order to challenge different tissues and to evaluate multiple components of resistance, various inoculation methods were used in experiments in vitro and under field conditions on a panel of diverse maize inbred lines over 3 years. As is typical for this trait, significant genotype–environment interactions were found for all the components of resistance studied. There was, however, significant variation in maize germplasm for susceptibility to silk and kernel colonization by A. flavus as measured in field assays. Resistance to silk colonization has not previously been reported. A significant correlation of resistance to aflatoxin accumulation with flowering time and kernel composition traits (fiber, ash, carbohydrate, and seed weight) was detected. In addition, correlation analyses with data available in the literature indicated that lines that flower later in the season tend to be more resistant. We were not able to demonstrate that components identified in vitro were associated with reduced aflatoxin accumulation in the field.
Psychosocial and somatic outcomes of sleep problems in children: a 4‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Simola P. , Liukkonen K. , Pitkäranta A. , Pirinen T. , Aronen E. T.
Published: July 2012

Background

Inadequate sleep in children relates to medical and psychosocial problems. However, not much is known about the effects of sleep problems persisting from pre‐school to school age on somatic and psychosocial symptoms.

Objectives

To examine the associations between sleep disturbances and psychosocial symptoms, somatic complaints, medical problems at school age.

Methods

This was a population‐based 4‐year follow‐up study of sleep problems in Finnish children (n = 470). Parents filled in Sleep Disturbance Scale for Children during pre‐school and school years. Children were categorized into four groups: no sleep problems, sleep problems only at pre‐school or only at school age, and persistent sleep problems. At follow‐up the parents filled in Child Behavior Checklist and a background questionnaire.

Results

The children with persistent sleep problems (9%) had a 16‐fold risk of having psychosocial symptoms on subclinical/clinical range compared with the children without sleep problems. The psychosocial symptoms that were related strongest to prolonged sleep problems were aggression, social and attention problems, and anxious/depressed mood. Also, somatic complaints (ninefold risk) and medical problems (P < 0.001) were typical for children with persistent sleep problems.

Conclusions

Persistent sleep problems in children associate with high levels of psychosocial, somatic and medical problems. In paediatric health care more attention should be paid to recognizing, monitoring of the persistence and treatment of sleep problems before school transition period.
Pretreatment with glycomacropeptide reduces allergen sensitization, alleviates immediate cutaneous hypersensitivity and protects from anaphylaxis
Authors: Jiménez M , Chávez N A , Salinas E
Published: July 2012

Allergic disorders are characterized by the involvement of allergen-specific immunoglobulin (Ig)E antibodies and T helper type 2 (Th2) cells. The search for new therapies for allergic diseases has been the primary focus of interest for many investigators in recent years. Glycomacropeptide (GMP) is a biologically active component of milk that exhibits a range of immunomodulatory functions. We examined whether oral administration of GMP could affect the development of allergic sensitization and the severity of immediate cutaneous hypersensitivity reactions and of anaphylaxis. Rats treated with or without GMP were ovalbumin (OVA)-sensitized and several indicators of allergy were evaluated. Pretreatment with GMP resulted in reduction of antigen-specific IgE titre in rats when sensitized with OVA. GMP administration also markedly suppressed the proliferative response of splenocytes to antigen and the production of interleukin (IL)-13 by splenocytes of sensitized animals. In addition, GMP pretreatment attenuated the intensity of the immediate cutaneous reaction induced by antigen and protected the sensitized rats from severe anaphylaxis. These data demonstrate, for the first time, that the administration of GMP prevents allergen sensitization and reduces the severity of the early-phase reaction induced by antigen in cutaneous hypersensitivity and in anaphylaxis. GMP may be used as a novel prophylactic agent for the control of allergic diseases.
Critical mass of splenic autotransplant needed for the development of phagocytic activity in rats
Authors: Marques R G , Caetano C E R , Diestel C F , Lima E , Portela M C , Oliveira A V , Oliveira M B N , Bernardo-Filho M
Published: July 2012

When total splenectomy is inevitable, heterotopic splenic autotransplantation seems to be the only alternative to maintain the functions of the spleen. The present study was carried out to analyse the critical mass of splenic autotransplant (SAT) for the development of phagocytic activity in rats. Wistar rats were submitted to total splenectomy (TS) alone or in combination with slices of SAT ranging from an average rate of 21·9% (one slice) to 100% (five slices) of the total splenic mass implanted into the greater omentum. Sixteen weeks after the beginning of the experiment, the animals were inoculated intravenously with a suspension of Escherichia coli labelled with Tc-99m. After 20 min, the rats were killed and the liver, lung and spleen or SAT, as well as blood samples were removed to determine the percentage of labelled bacteria uptake in these tissues. As the percentage of the total splenic mass contained in the SAT increased, the bacteria remaining in the blood decreased. From the implant of 26% up to the implant of the total splenic mass (100%) there was no difference in the bacteria remaining in the blood between the healthy animals of the control group and those submitted to TS combined with SAT. This finding shows that the critical mass needed for the development of phagocytic activity of macrophages in splenic autotransplants in adult rats is 26% of the total splenic mass.
Bacillus-derived poly-γ-glutamic acid reciprocally regulates the differentiation of T helper 17 and regulatory T cells and attenuates experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis
Authors: Lee K , Hwang S , Paik D J , Kim W K , Kim J M , Youn J
Published: July 2012

Forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3+) regulatory T (Treg) cells and interleukin (IL)-17-producing T helper 17 (Th17) cells have opposing effects on autoimmunity, as the former are crucial for maintaining self-tolerance while the latter play a key role in precipitating inflammatory autoimmune diseases. Here we report that Bacillus-derived poly-γ-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) signals naive CD4+ T cells to promote the selective differentiation of Treg cells and to suppress the differentiation of Th17 cells. The γ-PGA inducibility of FoxP3 expression was due partially to transforming growth factor (TGF)-β induction through a Toll-like receptor (TLR)-4/myeloid differentiating factor 88 (MyD88)-dependent pathway. However, this pathway was dispensable for γ-PGA suppression of Th17 differentiation. γ-PGA inhibited IL-6-driven induction of Th17-specific factors including signal transducer and activator of transcription-3 (STAT-3) and retinoic acid-related orphan receptor γt (RORγt) while up-regulating the STAT-3 inhibitor suppressor of cytokine signalling 3 (SOCS3). Importantly, in vivo administration of γ-PGA attenuated the symptoms of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis and at the same time reduced Th17 cell infiltrates in the central nervous system. Thus, we have identified the microbe-associated molecular pattern, γ-PGA, as a novel regulator of autoimmune responses, capable of promoting the differentiation of anti-inflammatory Treg cells and suppressing the differentiation of proinflammatory Th17 cells. These findings draw attention to the potential of γ-PGA for treating Th17 cell-mediated autoimmune diseases.
Effects of tibolone or continuous combined oestradiol/norethisterone acetate on glucose and insulin metabolism
Authors: Manassiev Nik , Godsland Ian F. , Proudler Anthony J. , Whitehead Malcolm I. , Stevenson John C.
Published: July 2012

Objective

To determine the effects of tibolone or oestradiol (E2)/norethisterone acetate (NETA) hormone replacement therapy on glucose and insulin metabolism in postmenopausal women.

Design

Single‐centre double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial.

Subjects/Methods

We randomized 105 healthy postmenopausal women to tibolone 2·5 mg daily, continuous combined oral E2 2 mg/NETA 1 mg daily or placebo over a 2‐year study. We performed intravenous glucose tolerance tests (IVGTT) with measurements of plasma glucose, insulin and C‐peptide concentrations and the IVGTT glucose elimination rate, k. Mathematical modelling was performed to determine measures of insulin sensitivity, Si, pancreatic insulin secretion and hepatic and plasma insulin elimination.

Results

Tibolone decreased Si to 53–63% and k to 72–79% of baseline values but increased IVGTT phase 2 C‐peptide concentrations 1·6–1·8‐fold and pancreatic insulin secretion 2·2–2·4‐fold, so overall IVGTT glucose concentrations were unaffected. Similar, but for k, significantly smaller changes in insulin and C‐peptide secretion were seen with E2/NETA, also with no effect on overall IVGTT glucose concentrations.

Conclusions

Tibolone reduces insulin sensitivity. Healthy postmenopausal women seem able to compensate for this and maintain normal postload glucose concentrations, but it may not be advisable to prescribe tibolone to women with, or at increased risk for, diabetes.
Delayed setting of the photoperiodic response in recombinant clones of the aphid species Sitobion avenae
Authors: DEDRYVER CHARLES‐ANTOINE , LE GALLIC JEAN‐FRANÇOIS , MAHÉO FRÉDÉRIQUE , PARISEY NICOLAS , TAGU DENIS
Published: July 2012

1. To explore the possible causes of apparent changes in reproductive mode from obligate to cyclical parthenogenesis over time in recombinant clones of the aphid Sitobion avenae Fabricius, all F1 progenies from various crosses were tested for several consecutive years for sexual morph production, after several weeks' exposure to a short photoperiod.

2. Variable proportions of the F1 progenies from selfing and outcrossing holocyclic clones did not produce mating females when induction was attempted in the year of hatching, but only after further induction, the following year or after. This ‘delayed setting of the photoperiodic response’ (DSPR) was much stronger in recombinants from crosses involving only clones from oceanic regions than in those involving one clone from a region with a continental climate.

3. F1 progenies resulting from crosses between one holocyclic and one intermediate clone did not show DSPR. It appeared again in the F2.

4. DSPR preferentially affected the latest hatched clones in a given progeny.

5. This phenomenon is neither an experimental artefact nor as a result of clone contamination. It appears to be because of a genetically controlled quantitative trait affecting the length of the ‘interval timer’, and may represent an adaptation of holocyclic aphid clones from oceanic regions to unpredictable winter climates.
Plant‐mediated effects of soil nitrogen enrichment on a chemically defended specialist herbivore,Calophasia lunula
Authors: JAMIESON MARY A. , DEANE BOWERS M.
Published: July 2012

1. Nitrogen enrichment is an important driver of environmental change. In the present study, plant‐mediated effects of increased nitrogen on a specialist herbivore,Calophasia lunulaHufnagel, which sequesters antirrhinoside, an iridoid glycoside produced by its host plants, were examined.

2. Caterpillars were reared onLinaria dalmaticaplants grown under low or high N treatments, andC. lunulaperformance traits and antirrhinoside levels were measured. Additionally, a bioassay was conducted with predatory ants to examine their response to antirrhinoside.

3. Nitrogen enrichment increased larval biomass and decreased larval antirrhinoside concentrations, but had no effect on plant iridoid glycoside concentrations or larval antirrhinoside content. Thus, differences in larval antirrhinoside concentrations were evidently a consequence of increased larval biomass. Additionally, nitrogen treatment had no effects on pupal performance or defence traits.

4. Bioassay results demonstrated a deterrent effect of antirrhinoside, but additional tests are necessary to evaluate the defensive role of this compound in insects.

5. Surprisingly, this study demonstrated little effect of a six‐fold increase in nitrogen availability onL. dalmaticairidoid glycoside concentrations or sequestration byC. lunula.Moreover, the results suggested that changes in plant primary chemistry were more important than secondary chemistry for this specialist herbivore, and that some insects may be insensitive to N enrichment.
Pollen use by Megalopta sweat bees in relation to resource availability in a tropical forest
Authors: SMITH ADAM R. , LÓPEZ QUINTERO ISIS J. , MORENO PATIÑO JORGE ENRIQUE , ROUBIK DAVID W. , WCISLO WILLIAM T.
Published: July 2012

1. Spatial and temporal availability of pollen helps shape bee foraging behaviour and productivity, which has been studied in great detail at the landscape level, but never in a diverse tropical forest.

2. To study the effect of spatio‐temporal variation in resource distribution on pollen use and productivity, we identified pollen from spatially explicit nest collections of two generalist sweat bees, Megalopta genalis Meade‐Waldo and M. centralis Friese, from Barro Colorado Island, Panama, a 50‐ha forest dynamics plot during the 2007 dry and early wet seasons. Pollen from nests collected in 1998–1999 without spatial information was also identified.

3. Bees used pollen of at least 64 species; many of these occurred in only one collection. The 2007 collections contained pollen of 35 different species, but were dominated by five species, especially Hura crepitans L. and Pseudobombax septenatum (Jacq.) Dugand.

4. Temporal availability, but not distance from nest, influenced flower use at a 50‐ha scale.

5. Body size was not associated with minimum flight distance as inferred from pollen collections.

6. Nest productivity and pollen diversity decreased from the dry to wet seasons, mirroring community‐level availability of floral resources.

7. Results suggest that on a scale of 50 ha, bees are choosing certain host plant species regardless of distance from the nest, but adjusting foraging behaviour opportunistically based on the temporal availability of host flowers.
Effects of woodland maturity, vegetation cover and season on enzymatic and microbial activity in thermophilic Spanish Juniper woodlands (Juniperus thurifera L.) of southern Spain
Authors: García‐Morote F. A. , López‐Serrano F. R. , Andrés M. , Martínez‐García E. , Lucas‐Borja M. , Dadi T. , Candel D. , Wic C.
Published: July 2012

There are still considerable uncertainties about soil functioning in semi‐arid Mediterranean ecosystems. Hence, studies that have focused on Juniperus species in thermophilic Mediterranean woodlands are practically non‐existent. This study provides a survey of the effects of (i) woodland maturity (mature and young woodlands), (ii) vegetation cover (Juniperus thurifera L. trees, Rosmarinus officinalis L. shrubs and semi‐wooded grasslands) and (iii) growing season (spring, summer and autumn) on soil enzymatic activity (urease, alkaline phosphatase and β‐glucosidase) and microbiological characteristics (microbial biomass C (MBC), basal respiration (Br), and microbial and metabolic quotients) in thermophilic Spanish Juniper woodlands. The results showed that mature woodland maintained a greater enzymatic and microbiological activity than the more productive young woodland. The advanced communities of Juniperus trees and Rosmarinus shrubs exhibited greater enzymatic and microbial activity than grassland areas. Soil biological characteristics were strongly affected by the season. Significant β‐glucosidase activity and Br were observed in the summer, as a consequence of the greater organic matter availability for microbes, despite the reduced soil moisture availability. Thus, foliar abscission in trees and shrubs and withering in grasslands seem to control soil biological activity. Hence, we hypothesize that microbial communities that are adapted to drought exist. In contrast, the presence of greater N and P content in summer seems to reduce the urease and phosphatase activities. In addition, the more advanced communities (Juniperus and Rosmarinus covers, especially in mature woodland) showed an inherent trend towards efficiency in C utilization throughout the growing seasons, thus increasing the MBC at the end of the growing season.
Carbon isotopes of water‐extractable organic carbon in a depth profile of forest soil imply a dynamic relationship with soil carbon
Authors: Nakanishi T. , Atarashi‐Andoh M. , Koarashi J. , Saito‐Kokubu Y. , Hirai K.
Published: July 2012

Although considerable research has been conducted on the importance of recent litter compared with older soil organic matter as sources of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) in forest soils, a more thorough evaluation of this mechanism is necessary. We studied water‐extractable organic carbon (WEOC) in a soil profile under a cool‐temperate beech forest by analysing the isotopic composition (13C and 14C) of WEOC and its fractions after separation on a DAX‐8 resin. With depth, WEOC became more enriched in 13C, which reflects the increasing proportion of the hydrophilic, isotopically heavier fraction. The 14C content in WEOC and its fractions decreased with depth, paralleling the 14C trend in soil organic matter (SOM). These results indicate a dynamic equilibrium of WEOC and soil organic carbon. The dominant process maintaining the WEOC pool in the mineral soil appears to be the microbial release of water‐soluble compounds from the SOM, which alters in time‐scales of decades to centuries.
Sorption of the herbicide aminocyclopyrachlor by cation‐modified clay minerals
Authors: Cabrera A. , Trigo C. , Cox L. , Celis R. , Hermosin M. C. , Cornejo J. , Koskinen W. C.
Published: July 2012

Aminocyclopyrachlor (6‐amino‐5‐chloro‐2‐cyclopropyl‐4‐pyrimidinecarboxylic acid), a new herbicide, was approved by US‐EPA (United States Environmental Protection Agency) in September 2010 for the control of broadleaf weeds, grasses, vines and woody species in non‐crops, turf, sod farms and residential areas. At typical soil pH levels, aminocyclopyrachlor is anionic. Anionic pesticides are generally weakly retained by most soil and sediment components and are subject to potential transport offsite. One strategy to minimize the risk of offsite transport associated with weakly sorbed, highly mobile pesticides is the application of these chemicals supported on a sorbent, such as modified clay minerals which contain exchangeable inorganic and organic cations. The aim was to determine the ability of unmodified and modified clay minerals to sorb aminocyclopyrachlor. Two montmorillonites (Ca‐Arizona montorillonite (SAz‐1) and Na‐Wyoming montmorillonite (SWy‐2)) were used as unmodified clay minerals and were also modified with an inorganic cation (Fe3+), soil constituents (ferrihydrite, humic acid) and organic cations (hexadecyltrimethylammonium (HDTMA), hexadimethrine, spermine). Greater sorption of aminocyclopyrachlor was observed in the sorbent–solution systems with lower pH values, presumably because of protonation of the herbicide anion at low pH and subsequent sorption of molecular species and cationic species. FeSWy‐2 (SWy‐2 montmorillonite saturated with Fe3+; system pH = 4.6) was the best sorbent for aminocyclopyrachlor (86% of applied). The best organo‐clay (SA‐HDTMA) (system pH = 6.1) sorbed 53% of the applied herbicide. Binary and ternary model sorbents (system pH > 6.7) did not sorb aminocyclopyrachlor. At the lowest pH value studied (2.8), the organo‐clay SW‐Sper was the best sorbent system for aminocyclopyrachlor. Our recommendation for the best adsorbent is the clay mineral modified with Fe3+, although at pH values <3, the use of the organo‐clay SW‐Sperm could be also convenient.
Poro‐acoustoelasticity of fluid‐saturated rocks
Authors: Ba Jing , Carcione José M. , Cao Hong , Yao Fengchang , Du Qizhen
Published: July 2012

We generalize the classical theory of acoustoelasticity to the porous case (one fluid and a solid frame) and finite deformations. A unified treatment of non‐linear acoustoelasticity of finite strains in fluid‐saturated porous rocks is developed on the basis of Biot’s theory. A strain‐energy function, formed with eleven terms, combined with Biot’s kinetic and dissipation energies, yields Lagrange’s equations and consequently the wave equation of the medium. The velocities and dissipation factors of the P‐ and S‐waves are obtained as a function of the 2nd‐ and 3rd‐order elastic constants for hydrostatic and uniaxial loading. The theory yields the limit to the classical theory if the fluid is replaced with a solid with the same properties of the frame. We consider sandstone and obtain results for open‐pore jacketed and closed‐pore jacketed ‘gedanken’ experiments. Finally, we compare the theoretical results with experimental data.
Eating habits and physical activity of adolescents in Katowice – the teenagers’ declarations vs. their parents’ beliefs
Authors: Bąk‐Sosnowska Monika , Skrzypulec‐Plinta Violetta
Published: July 2012

Aims and objectives.  To analyse eating and physical activity preferences among adolescent school children and to compare the teenagers’ lifestyle declarations with their parents’ beliefs.

Background.  Unfavorable behavior in eating habits and physical activity may result in serious dysfunctions and diseases, such as eating disorders and incorrect body mass.

Design.  A retrospective cross‐sectional study conducted in 2010–2011.

Methods.  The data was collated from 711 pupils and 266 parents. The survey included questions on: breakfast consumption, types of food eaten for breakfast, time of supper, the daily number of meals, the quantity of fruit and vegetables, food products purchased in the school shop, as well as the type and level of physical activity.

Results.  In the population of children aged 14–15 years, 10% do not eat 1st breakfast and 15% do not eat 2nd breakfast, 50% eat dairy products for 1st breakfast, 70% have sandwiches for 2nd breakfast, 45% most frequently buy snacks in the school shop, 65% prefer physical activity in the form of team games, and 90% willingly participate in PE classes. The parents’ beliefs differ from their children’s declarations with regard to: breakfast consumption, the number of meals a day, the quantity of fruit, and participation in PE classes.

Conclusions.  The lifestyle of the studied adolescents is within the norms recommended for their age group, although there is a tendency to skip breakfast. A positive aspect is the adolescents’ engagement in physical activity. Parents underestimate their children’s level of physical activity and overestimate their daily number of meals.

Relevance to clinical practice.  The study confirms the validity of conducting health education, addressed to both children and their parents, with regard to correct eating habits and physical activity, as well as prevention of eating disorders.
Co‐evolution of departmental research collaboration and scholarly outcomes
Authors: Katerndahl David
Published: July 2012

Rationale

Understanding scientific collaboration networks can assist research centres to develop strategies to maximize productivity, and help diagnose the causes of low system productivity. The purpose of this study was to use social network analysis to better understand how research collaboration within a productive department impacts scholarly productivity individually and departmentally.

Methods

Over a 13‐year period, departmental faculty completed an annual survey describing their research collaborations and scholarly productivity. Data were analyzed using social network analysis.Quadratic assignment procedureregression assessed the predictive value that an individual's measures of centrality within the network and effective size of their own network (egonet) had each year in predicting each scholarly outcome.SimulationInvestigation forEmpiricalNetworkAnalysis software assessed the co‐evolution of the collaborative network and scholarship.

Results

While no consistent patterns for individual's presentations were seen, individual's publications were associated with betweenness and eigenvector centrality, and effective egonet size. Grant submissions were associated with degree and eigenvector centrality, as well as effective egonet size. Departmentally, network dynamics depended upon the scholarship of those around you, but none of the forms of scholarship depended upon network characteristics. Of the three forms of scholarship, network dynamics depended primarily on publications in others.

Conclusion

Although individual scholarship was dependent upon individual centrality and effective egonet size, research collaboration within the department depended upon reciprocity, transitivity and scholarly productivity of its constituent investigators. Scholarly dynamics, at a departmental level, did not depend upon network characteristics.
Hepatitis B virus wild‐type and rtN236T populations show similar early HBV DNA decline in adefovir refractory patients on a tenofovir‐based regimen
Authors: Svarovskaia E. S. , Curtis M. , Zhu Y. , Borroto‐Esoda K. , Miller M. D. , Berg T. , Lavocat F. , Zoulim F. , Kitrinos K. M.
Published: July 2012

Summary.  Hepatitis B virus (HBV) pol/RT mutations that confer clinical resistance to tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) have not been detected to date. In vitro, the rtN236T adefovir dipivoxil (ADV)‐associated resistance mutation confers low‐level cross‐resistance to tenofovir: 3‐ to 13‐fold changes in EC50 from wild type. This study evaluated the clinical response of rtN236T mutant viruses by comparing their early viral load decay kinetics to wild‐type viruses in chronic HBV monoinfected patients harbouring rtN236T prior to initiating TDF or emtricitabine (FTC)/TDF therapy. Baseline samples (n = 105) from adefovir refractory patients were tested for the presence of rtN236T using a highly sensitive allele‐specific PCR assay with an rtN236T detection cut‐off of 0.5%. The rtN236T mutation was detected at baseline in 14.3% (14/98) of analysable patient samples (0.5–93.2%, rtN236T percentage range). The median change in total HBV DNA at week 24 was comparable for patients with rtN236T detected at baseline (−3.7 log10 copies/mL, n = 14) as compared to patients with wild‐type HBV (−3.2 log10 copies/mL, n = 90). In patients with rtN236T, wild‐type and rtN236T mutant virus showed similar rates of HBV DNA decline with no statistically significant difference observed at week 4. Moreover, the proportion of rtN236T remained unchanged in patients in either arm of the study during treatment. In conclusion, the rtN236T mutant virus showed similar HBV DNA decline kinetics to wild‐type virus in adefovir refractory patients who switched to TDF or FTC/TDF. Despite low levels of cross‐resistance in vitro, TDF similarly suppresses wild‐type and rtN236T mutant viruses in vivo.
Visceral analgesia induced by acute and repeated water avoidance stress in rats: sex difference in opioid involvement
Authors: Larauche M. , Mulak A. , Kim Y. S. , Labus J. , Million M. , Taché Y.
Published: July 2012

Background  Chronic psychological stress‐induced alterations in visceral sensitivity have been predominantly assessed in male rodents. We investigated the effect of acute and repeated water avoidance stress (WAS) on the visceromotor response (VMR) to colorectal distension (CRD) and the role of opioids in male and cycling female Wistar rats using a novel non‐invasive manometric technique.

Methods  After a baseline VMR (1st CRD, day 0), rats were exposed to WAS (1 h day−1) either once or for four consecutive days, without injection or with naloxone (1 mg kg−1) or saline injected subcutaneously before each WAS session.

Key Results  The VMR to CRD recorded on day 1 or 4 immediately after the last WAS was reduced in both females and males. The visceral analgesia was mainly naloxone‐dependent in females, but naloxone‐independent in males. In non‐injected animals, on days 2 and 5, VMR was not significantly different from baseline in males whereas females exhibited a significant VMR increase at 60 mmHg on day 5. Basal CRD and CRD on days 1, 2, and 5 in both sexes without WAS induced similar VMR.

Conclusions & Inferences  When monitored non‐invasively, psychological stress induces an immediate poststress visceral analgesia mediated by an opiate signaling system in females while naloxone‐independent in males, and hyperalgesia at 24 h after repeated stress only in females. These data highlight the importance of sex‐specific interventions to modulate visceral pain response to stress.
An accurate and reliable real time SNP genotyping assay for the HLA‐G +3142 bp C>G polymorphism
Authors: Bortolotti D. , Gentili V. , Melchiorri L. , Rotola A. , Rizzo R.
Published: July 2012

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)‐G is a non classical HLA class I antigen with immuno‐modulatory functions. The HLA‐G gene is characterized by a +3142C>G variant in the 3′ untranslated region which is suggested to control protein production and to be associated with pathological conditions. DNAs form 221 randomly selected healthy subjects were genotyped for HLA‐G +3142C>G polymorphism by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP) (BaeGI), real‐time PCR and sequencing. The 19% of the PCR‐RFLP heterozygous samples were genotyped as 3142GG by real‐time PCR and sequencing. This disagreement is caused by digestion efficiency in PCR‐RFLP. This real‐time PCR method will guarantee an accurate genotyping for future research and clinical purposes, where large cohorts should be tested.
Developing a typology for local cattle breed farmers in Europe
Authors: Soini K. , Diaz C. , Gandini G. , de Haas Y. , Lilja T. , Martin‐Collado D. , Pizzi F. ,   EURECA – consortium, Hiemstra S. J.
Published: July 2012

Recognizing cultural diversity among local breed farmers is crucial for the successful development and implementation of farm animal genetic resources FAnGr conservation policies and programmes. In this study based on survey data collected in the EUropean REgional CAttle breeds project from six European countries, a typology of local breed farmers was designed and profiles for each of the farmer types were developed to assist these policy needs. Three main farmer types were constructed: production‐oriented, product and service‐oriented and hobby‐oriented farmers. In addition, seven subtypes were characterized under the main types: sustainable producers, opportunists, multi‐users, brand makers, traditionalists, pragmatists and newcomers. These types have many similarities to the ‘productivist’, ‘multifunctional’ and ‘post‐productivist’ farmer types. The typology not only reveals the high level of diversity among local cattle breed farmers in Europe, which presents an opportunity for thein situconservation of animal genetic resources, but also a challenge for policy to meet the differing requirements of the farmer types.
Cross‐cultural research: Challenge and competence
Authors: Clark Mary Jo
Published: July 2012

Increasing globalization, population diversity and health disparities among non‐dominant cultures necessitate cross‐cultural research. Research with other cultures is fraught with challenges that must be addressed by the competent cross‐cultural researcher. Areas for consideration include choice of research foci, ethical concerns, cultural adaptation of research measurements and interventions, participant recruitment and retention, strategies for data collection and analysis, dissemination of findings and perspectives of time. Approaches to dealing with these challenges are addressed, with an emphasis on community‐based participatory research.
Octopaminergic modulation of contrast gain adaptation in fly visual motion‐sensitive neurons
Authors: Rien Diana , Kern Roland , Kurtz Rafael
Published: July 2012

Locomotor activity like walking or flying has recently been shown to alter visual processing in several species. In insects, the neuromodulator octopamine is thought to play an important role in mediating state changes during locomotion of the animal [K.D. Longden & H.G. Krapp (2009) J. Neurophysiol., 102, 3606–3618; (2010) Front. Syst. Neurosci., 4, 153; S.N. Jung et al. (2011)J. Neurosci., 31, 9231–9237]. Here, we used the octopamine agonist chlordimeform (CDM) to mimic effects of behavioural state changes on visual motion processing. We recorded from identified motion‐sensitive visual interneurons in the lobula plate of the blowfly Calliphora vicina. In these neurons, which are thought to be involved in visual guidance of locomotion, motion adaptation leads to a prominent attenuation of contrast sensitivity. Following CDM application, the neurons maintained high contrast sensitivity in the adapted state. This modulation of contrast gain adaptation was independent of the activity of the recorded neurons, because it was also present after stimulation with visual motion that did not result in deviations from the neurons’ resting activity. We conclude that CDM affects presynaptic inputs of the recorded neurons. Accordingly, the effect of CDM was weak when adapting and test stimuli were presented in different parts of the receptive field, stimulating separate populations of local presynaptic neurons. In the peripheral visual system adaptation depends on the temporal frequency of the stimulus pattern and is therefore related to pattern velocity. Contrast gain adaptation could therefore be the basis for a shift in the velocity tuning that was previously suggested to contribute to state‐dependent processing of visual motion information in the lobula plate interneurons.
Client crying in the context of family therapy: an exploratory study
Authors: Cuevas‐Escorza Loreto , Garrido‐Fernández Miguel
Published: July 2012

This study explores the crying episodes of twenty‐eight clients treated at a family therapy service in a community centre. The crying episodes were associated with some significant elements: the time of appearance, the content and triggering factor, the interpersonal context of sessions and the emotions clients had for the therapist, as well as the therapy's outcome (end of treatment and the satisfaction of clients). Crying was much more frequent during the first session. It occurred more frequently when there was another family member present. The proportion of clients who cried during the treatment was significantly higher for clients who completed it successfully. Clients who cried perceived the therapist, in all cases, as a kind person who never got annoyed with them. Crying could be considered a type of behaviour that helps the therapist to create a safe context and foster the therapeutic alliance.
Citizen Centric Service in the Australian Department of Human Services: The Department's Experience in Engaging the Community in Co‐design of Government Service Delivery and Developments in E‐Government Services (澳大利亚人类服务部以公民为中心的服务：该部门在促进群体参与协同设计政府服务提供和发展在电子政府的经验)
Authors: Bridge Colin
Published: July 2012

The Department of Human Services (DHS) is responsible for delivering the majority of the Australian Governments social, health and welfare programs. Government services have traditionally been delivered in policy program silos. However, there has been growing acknowledgement of the overlapping needs of those accessing services, such as employment, mental health and housing. Co‐design moves towards gaining an understanding of the experiences of the users and their communities, and giving these communities a legitimate role in development and design. Co‐design is about finding the balance between what customers want, what is possible and what is viable. DHS has undertaken a series of community fora to better understand these needs and wants, to further inform the development of new service offers under the Australian Government's Service Delivery Reform (SDR) agenda. DHS has also introduced eServices to further improve customer access, and to inform DHS to better develop products that meet customer needs. Co‐design is an important feature of contemporary service delivery by DHS.

人类服务部（DHS）负责提供澳大利亚政府大部分的社会，卫生和福利计划。政府服务传统上是有由政策项目来执行的。然而，越来越多的使用诸如就业，心理健康和住房等服务的人认识到了他们相互重叠的需求。协同设计旨在了解用户及其群体的体验，并且在发展和设计过程中给予这些团体权利。协同设计是要在客户想要什么，什么是可能的，什么是可行的之间找到平衡。人类服务部已开始了解一系列群体，从而更好地理解他们的需求和希望，进一步帮助发展基于澳大利亚政府公共服务改革（SDR）议程的新服务。人类服务部还推出了电子服务，以进一步提高客户的访问，并使人类服务部能够开发出产更好的产品来满足客户的需求。协同设计是当下由人类资源部提供的服务的一个重要特征。
Standing Up for the Victim, Siding with the Bully or Standing by? Bystander Responses in Bullying Situations
Authors: Pöyhönen Virpi , Juvonen Jaana , Salmivalli Christina
Published: July 2012

In this study we examined children's self‐efficacy, outcome expectations, and outcome values in relation to bystander responses in bullying situations. We proposed that beyond the effect of self‐efficacy, the decision to defend the victim of bullying vs. remain passive vs. reinforce the bully depends on outcomes children expect from defending, and on the value they place on these outcomes. Our sample consisted of 6397 Finnish children (3232 girls and 3165 boys) from third, fourth, and fifth grades (mean ages 9–11 years). Results showed that the motivational underpinnings of defending the victim, remaining passive, and reinforcing the bully varied. Defending was associated with the expectation that the victim feels better as a result of defending as well as valuing such an outcome. Reinforcement of bullying was associated with negative expectations and not caring about the positive outcomes. Conflicting expectations and values were linked to remaining passive. Results are discussed in terms of their implications for anti‐bullying interventions.