bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of adaptive phenotypic variation patterns by direct selection for evolvability
Authors: Pavlicev Mihaela , Cheverud James M. , Wagner Günter P.
Published: November 2010

A basic assumption of the Darwinian theory of evolution is that heritable variation arises randomly. In this context, randomness means that mutations arise irrespective of the current adaptive needs imposed by the environment. It is broadly accepted, however, that phenotypic variation is not uniformly distributed among phenotypic traits, some traits tend to covary, while others vary independently, and again others barely vary at all. Furthermore, it is well established that patterns of trait variation differ among species. Specifically, traits that serve different functions tend to be less correlated, as for instance forelimbs and hind limbs in bats and humans, compared with the limbs of quadrupedal mammals. Recently, a novel class of genetic elements has been identified in mouse gene-mapping studies that modify correlations among quantitative traits. These loci are called relationship loci, or relationship Quantitative Trait Loci (rQTL), and affect trait correlations by changing the expression of the existing genetic variation through gene interaction. Here, we present a population genetic model of how natural selection acts on rQTL. Contrary to the usual neo-Darwinian theory, in this model, new heritable phenotypic variation is produced along the selected dimension in response to directional selection. The results predict that selection on rQTL leads to higher correlations among traits that are simultaneously under directional selection. On the other hand, traits that are not simultaneously under directional selection are predicted to evolve lower correlations. These results and the previously demonstrated existence of rQTL variation, show a mechanism by which natural selection can directly enhance the evolvability of complex organisms along lines of adaptive change.
Biological activity of oestradiol sulphate in an oviparous amniote: implications for maternal steroid effects
Authors: Paitz Ryan T. , Bowden Rachel M.
Published: November 2010

Understanding the many factors that underlie phenotypic variation is of profound importance to evolutionary biologists. The embryonic endocrine environment is one such factor that has received much attention. In placental amniotes, the dynamic interaction of maternal and embryonic steroid production and metabolism is critical to regulating the endocrine environment. Less is known about how embryos of oviparous amniotes regulate their endocrine environment because most studies have focused on relating initial steroid levels in the yolk at oviposition to offspring phenotype. We tested the hypothesis that embryos of oviparous amniotes regulate their endocrine environment by conjugating maternal steroids and subsequently using the metabolites as precursors for steroid production later in development. Using the red-eared slider turtle (
Trachemys scripta
), we first characterized the conjugation of exogenous oestradiol to either oestradiol glucuronide or oestradiol sulphate (E
2
-S)
in ovo
during the first 15 days of development. Results show that oestradiol is primarily conjugated to E
2
-S. We then examined whether E
2
-S influenced sex determination and report that E
2
-S increases the production of female offspring. These data demonstrate that oviparous amniotes can both sulphonate steroids and respond to sulphonated steroids during embryonic development in a manner similar to placental amniotes.
Rapid diversification and not clade age explains high diversity in neotropical
Adelpha
butterflies
Authors: Mullen Sean P. , Savage Wesley K. , Wahlberg Niklas , Willmott Keith R.
Published: November 2010

Latitudinal gradients in species richness are among the most well-known biogeographic patterns in nature, and yet there remains much debate and little consensus over the ecological and evolutionary causes of these gradients. Here, we evaluated whether two prominent alternative hypotheses (namely differences in diversification rate or clade age) could account for the latitudinal diversity gradient in one of the most speciose neotropical butterfly genera (
Adelpha
) and its close relatives. We generated a multilocus phylogeny of a diverse group of butterflies in the containing tribe Limenitidini, which has both temperate and tropical representatives. Our results suggest there is no relationship between clade age and species richness that could account for the diversity gradient, but that instead it could be explained by a significantly higher diversification rate within the predominantly tropical genus
Adelpha
. An apparent early larval host-plant shift to Rubiaceae and other plant families suggests that the availability of new potential host plants probably contributed to an increase in diversification of
Adelpha
in the lowland Neotropics. Collectively, our results support the hypothesis that the equatorial peak in species richness observed within
Adelpha
is the result of increased diversification rate in the last 10–15 Myr rather than a function of clade age, perhaps reflecting adaptive divergence in response to the dramatic host-plant diversity found within neotropical ecosystems.
Bcl-6 and NF-κB cistromes mediate opposing regulation of the innate immune response
Authors: Barish Grant D. , Yu Ruth T. , Karunasiri Malith , Ocampo Corinne B. , Dixon Jesse , Benner Chris , Dent Alexander L. , Tangirala Rajendra K. , Evans Ronald M.
Published: November 2010

In the macrophage, toll-like receptors (TLRs) are key sensors that trigger signaling cascades to activate inflammatory programs via the NF-κB gene network. However, the genomic network targeted by TLR/NF-κB activation and the molecular basis by which it is restrained to terminate activation and re-establish quiescence is poorly understood. Here, using chromatin immunoprecipitation sequencing (ChIP-seq), we define the NF-κB cistrome, which is comprised of 31,070 cis-acting binding sites responsive to lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced signaling. In addition, we demonstrate that the transcriptional repressor B-cell lymphoma 6 (Bcl-6) regulates nearly a third of the Tlr4-regulated transcriptome, and that 90% of the Bcl-6 cistrome is collapsed following Tlr4 activation. Bcl-6-deficient macrophages are acutely hypersensitive to LPS and, using comparative ChIP-seq analyses, we found that the Bcl-6 and NF-κB cistromes intersect, within nucleosomal distance, at nearly half of Bcl-6-binding sites in stimulated macrophages to promote opposing epigenetic modifications of the local chromatin. These results reveal a genomic strategy for controlling the innate immune response in which repressive and inductive cistromes establish a dynamic balance between macrophage quiescence and activation via epigenetically marked cis-regulatory elements.
Asthma related to Alternaria sensitization: an analysis of skin‐test and serum‐specific IgE efficiency based on the bronchial provocation test
Authors: Fernández C. , Bevilacqua E. , Fernández N. , Gajate P. , de la Cámara A. G. , Garcimartín M. , Vives R. , Rodríguez J.
Published: November 2010

Background
It is difficult to find a causal relationship between exposure to Alternaria spores and the development of asthma symptoms in sensitized individuals due to the complexity of clinical situations in which positive diagnostic tests are often found.

Objective
To analyse the diagnostic efficiency of skin testing (ST) and serum‐specific IgE to Alternaria, based on the results of a bronchial specific challenge with Alternaria extracts.

Methods
Seventy‐four asthmatic patients sensitized to Alternaria underwent a specific bronchial challenge with this mould. Skin‐testing weal sizes, serum‐specific IgE values (CAP‐system) and bronchial challenge results were analysed by receiver operating characteristics curves (ROC curves) and logistic regression. The sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values were calculated for different cut‐off points.

Results
Bronchial challenges to Alternaria elicited a positive result in 45 patients (61%). Skin prick testing almost perfectly predicted the outcome of bronchoprovocation tests (area under the ROC curve of 0.957), whereas intradermal skin testing had moderate efficacy. A negative result for skin prick test (SPT) showed a 4% probability of a positive bronchial challenge in the logistic regression analysis. However, weals around 5.5 mm in diameter had 90% probability of a positive challenge. Quantification of serum‐specific IgE correctly classified 86% of the cases. In the logistic regression analysis, a CAP value 16 kUA/L predicted a positive bronchial challenge result with 99% accuracy, whereas for a CAP value <0.35 kUA/L, this probability was 33%.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance
Most asthmatic patients with positive SPT results to Alternaria would have a positive bronchial challenge. As atmospheric mould levels may vary significantly with the weather conditions, sensitized patients should be instructed on the risk situations, environmental control measures and the importance of correct medication compliance. Immunotherapy with Alternaria could also be taken into account as a valid therapeutic option.

Cite this as: C. Fernández, E. Bevilacqua, N. Fernández, P. Gajate, A. G. de la Cámara, M. Garcimartín, R. Vives and J. Rodríguez, Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2011 (41) 649–656.
Carbon transfer from 14C‐labelled needles to mineral soil, and 14C‐CO2 production, in a young Pinus radiata Don stand
Authors: Tate K. R. , Lambie S. M. , Ross D. J. , Dando J.
Published: November 2010

In forest ecosystems, few data are available on transfer rates of litterfall carbon (C) to mineral soil. Such data are, nevertheless, needed for predicting the effects of forest land‐use change and management on soil C stocks. We here report the transfer of C from Pinus radiata litter to mineral soil over 117 weeks, using 14C‐labelled needles mixed with unlabelled needles in lysimeters placed on the forest floor of a 5‐year‐old P. radiata stand. Mean annual temperature was about 12.9°C and mean annual rainfall about 995 mm; the soil was a well‐drained silt loam. Measurements were made at 39, 78 and 117 weeks of 14C in residual litter and in 10‐mm increments of mineral soil to 50 mm depth and 25‐mm increments from 50 to 100 mm depth. Measurements were also made of 14C‐CO2 production, at frequent intervals over the first 5 weeks and then less frequently. Recovery of 14C in litter and mineral soil ranged from 51 to 66% at the different exposure times. Cumulative respired 14C‐CO2, expressed as a percentage of the initially added 14C, increased from 16 to 19% after exposure times of 39 and 117 weeks, respectively. Total recovery of the added 14C did not differ significantly (P > 0.12) with time over the three measurement periods, with means ranging from 68 to 84%. Apparent losses of 14C were associated with large replicate variability, with coefficients of variation ranging from 20 to 31%, and with some disturbance of litter in the lysimeters by birds. We estimate that 1.0–2.2% of the litter 14C was transferred annually to 10–100‐mm depth of mineral soil. On the basis of microbial biomass‐14C measurements, this transferred C contained proportionately more microbial (labile) C than did the older total C in mineral soil. Results therefore are consistent with other studies on forests with well‐developed organic horizons indicating that C in humified organic matter, rather than in newly fallen litter, is the main above‐ground source for transfer of C to the mineral soil.
Effects of recent and accumulated livestock manure carbon additions on soil fertility and quality
Authors: Bhogal A. , Nicholson F.A. , Young I. , Sturrock C. , Whitmore A. P. , Chambers B. J.
Published: November 2010

Significant improvements in soil quality have been measured after repeated livestock manure additions at four experimental sites in England. The aim of this study was to determine whether these improvements were caused by the recent addition of fresh organic carbon (OC), or the long‐term build‐up of soil OC resulting from repeated additions. Livestock manures were withheld (‘historic’ treatment) from one half of each treatment plot and continued on the other half (‘recent’ treatment), and a range of soil properties measured 2 years later. Topsoil OC stocks and total nitrogen both increased by approximately 7%, with every 10 t ha−1manure OC applied, with no difference between the recent or historic additions. Similarly, topsoil available water capacity and porosity increased by approximately 2 and 1% with every 10 t ha−1OC applied, respectively. Bulk density and penetration resistance decreased, by approximately 1 and 3% with every 10 t ha−1OC applied, respectively, with again no difference between the recent and historic treatments. Even microbial biomass N and potentially mineralizable N showed no differences between the recent and historic additions, increasing by 8 and 30% with every 10 t ha−1OC applied, respectively. Only three of the wide range of soil properties measured showed a different response for the recent and historic additions. These were fungal biomass, which increased only with recent additions, extractable potassium, which was proportionally greater in the recent additions, and light‐fraction OC, which increased at a greater rate with the recent additions. The results clearly demonstrate that improvements in soil quality and functioning after repeated additions of livestock manures can persist for more than 2 years after the cessation of applications. Overall, it was the total accumulated manure C inputs that had the greatest influence on soil properties, regardless of whether the source of C was from recent or historic (over 2 years old) applications.
Reports of life skills training for students with intellectual disabilities in and out of school
Authors: Bouck E. C.
Published: November 2010

Background Life skills can be critical to the success of individuals with intellectual disabilities (ID) in terms of postschool outcomes. Yet, research suggests a decreasing emphasis on the acquisition of life skills in school for students with ID, raising the question if students then receive training in these areas after graduation.

Method This study represented a secondary analysis of the National Longitudinal Transition Study‐2 data to understand the reported receipt of life skills instruction in school and out of school for individuals with mild and moderate/severe ID. Frequency distributions, significant tests and at‐test were used to understand receipt of life skills in and out of school for both individuals with mild and moderate/severe ID.

Results The results suggest low‐reported receipt of life skills instruction/training in school and postschool for individuals with mild ID, few students with moderate/severe ID report receiving life skills training out of school, and receipt of life skills instruction in school is not related to receipt of life skills training/therapy after school by either individuals with mild ID or moderate/severe ID.

Conclusions Given the current educational policy situation (i.e. a predisposition towards inclusive general education placements for students with disabilities and participation in the accountability system for all students), educators who believe in the value of a life skills curriculum will need to be creative in its implementation and look towards transition plan and activities to provide students with the needed training. Regardless, teachers will need to rectify providing students with the academic skills they need to be successful on a general large‐scale assessment with providing them with the life skills (e.g. independent living, daily living, financial) to be successful after school in employment and independent living.
The sedimentary expression of oceanic anoxic event 1b in the North Atlantic
Authors: ALEXANDRE JOÃO TRABUCHO , VAN GILST ROELAND IZAÄK , RODRÍGUEZ‐LÓPEZ JUAN PEDRO , DE BOER POPPE L.
Published: November 2010

The Aptian/Albian oceanic anoxic event 1b contains the record of several perturbations in the global carbon cycle and multiple black shale levels, particularly in the Western Tethys. The local lithological expression of an oceanic anoxic event depends on palaeogeographical and depositional setting as well as on regional palaeoclimate. Marine sediments at a particular location may therefore be more or less organic‐rich (or not at all) and they may consist of different lithologies. In most studies, however, much of the lithological variability associated with oceanic anoxic events is left unaccounted for and, thus, the exact processes leading to the enrichment of organic matter in these marine sediments and their subsequent preservation in the geological record are unknown. This study focuses on the local sedimentary processes behind the deposition of organic‐rich sediments at Deep Sea Drilling Project Site 545 and Ocean Drilling Program Sites 1049 and 1276 in the North Atlantic during oceanic anoxic event 1b. Although specifically dealing with the sediments deposited during this particular event at these localities, it is expected that the same processes were responsible for determining the exact sedimentary products at localities in similar settings, as well as during other similar events in the Mesozoic. Here, it is shown that the deposition of organic‐rich sediments during oceanic anoxic event 1b was a consequence of the enhanced productivity favoured by upwelling and by riverine nutrient input, or aeolian fertilization of the euphotic zone depending on geographical location. Slope instability processes resulted in the transfer of part of these organic‐rich sediments from the shelf to deep sea depocentres as mud‐laden organic‐rich turbidites, especially in the northern North Atlantic. The so‐called ‘black shales’ are much more varied than their name implies. The end product of sedimentation during an oceanic anoxic event at a particular location is commonly the result of several equifinal processes acting on a local scale rather than the direct result of basinal or even global mechanisms.
Oocyte Ultrastructural Characteristics in Camel (Camelus dromedarius) Primordial to Large Antral Follicles
Authors: Davoodian N. , Mesbah F. , Kafi M.
Published: November 2010

With 14 figures and 1 table

This study was conducted to describe in detail the ultrastructural features and morphological characteristics of camel oocytes from preantral follicles in relation to the sequential stages of follicular development and also for oocytes from antral follicles in relation to their diameter. Camel oocytes from primordial, primary, secondary and also early to late antral follicles were processed and examined by light and transmission electron microscopy. Primordial follicular oocytes were characterized by a layer of flattened granulosa cells around and also eccentric nucleus and few cytoplasmic organelles in the peripheral region. Up to the secondary follicle stage, flat cells were replaced by cuboidal granulosa cells and their number increased and also an increase in the number of organelles such as vesicles, mitochondria and endoplasmic reticulum was observed. In the early antral stage, the formation of zona pellucida, appearance of microvilli and pleomorphic mitochondria was seen and the nucleus was dislocated to the peripheral region. During final growth phase, the extent of endoplasmic reticulum, vesicles and mitochondria increased, the number of lipid droplets decreased and cumulus cell process endings (CCPE) were observed. In conclusion, the growth of camel oocyte is associated with progressive increase in the number of mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi complexes and cytoplasmic vesicles as well as decrease in the number of lipid droplets and the nucleus migration from an eccentric in preantral to a peripheral location in antral follicles.
How Do Firms Implement Impairment Tests of Goodwill?
Authors: PETERSEN CHRISTIAN , PLENBORG THOMAS
Published: November 2010

This study seeks first to examine how firms implement impairment tests as required by IAS 36, and second, to explore factors which may explain why some firms are not entirely in compliance with IAS 36. It is based on a survey which includes 58 completed questionnaires representing 73% of the firms on the Copenhagen Stock Exchange that recognize goodwill on the balance sheet. The findings imply a variety in the application of IAS 36. Based on our analysis, it is difficult to determine whether this simply indicates that firms adopt an approach suited to their organizational and economic structures, or if it reveals that firms are uncertain as how to apply the standard. Our analysis further indicates inconsistencies in the implementation of IAS 36. This includes both how firms define a CGU and how they estimate the recoverable amount. Further, multivariate analysis reveals that the inconsistencies detected here are less likely in firms that systematize the procedures for impairment testing and use persons with considerable valuation experience. The findings should be of interest to a number of parties including firms, financial advisers, auditors, standard setters and users of financial statements.
The Impact of Immigration on the Size of Government: Empirical Evidence from Danish Municipalities
Authors: Gerdes Christer
Published: November 2010

Several studies have reported a negative relationship between ethnic heterogeneity and the size of the public sector. One problem with this literature is that ethnic composition is hardly exogenous, which obstructs attempts to reveal causal mechanisms. This paper explores the impact of changes in ethnic heterogeneity in Danish municipalities from 1995 through 2001, a period marked by an unprecedented influx of refugees. A state‐sponsored placement policy restricted their choice of residence and required local governments to accept them as citizens. The analysis of the impact of this influx has not revealed any support for the claim of a decline in public sector size.
Effects of Structural Constraints and Costs on Choices
Authors: Simmons Peter
Published: November 2010

The paper argues that many choice situations involve a more complicated constraint structure than the standard linear budget constraint and consumption set. Some abstract examples are outlined and in each case some theoretical properties are derived, for example, of the comparative statics. One result of interest is to derive the direct utility choice problem, which generates quasihomothetic preferences. Some empirical examples for the generic cases are sketched for rural household choices, choices of costs of travel to work, a UK welfare benefit system.
Tax–Benefit‐revealed Redistributive Preferences Over Time: Ireland 1987–2005
Authors: Bargain Olivier , Keane Claire
Published: November 2010

By inverting Saez's model of optimal income taxation, we characterize the redistributive preferences of the Irish government between 1987 and 2005. The (marginal) social welfare function revealed by this approach is consistently comparable over time and shows great stability despite profound changes in market incomes and important fiscal reforms over the period. Results are robust to numerous checks regarding data, income concepts, and elasticities. A comparison with the UK shows marked differences reflecting the narrow political spectrum in Ireland compared with radical changes in British politics over the past 30 years. Some ‘anomalies’ in the revealed social welfare function suggest introducing transfers to the working poor.
Controlling Anger and Happiness at Work: An Examination of Gender Differences
Authors: Sloan Melissa M.
Published: November 2010

This article examines gender differences in the emotion management of men and women in the workplace. The belief in American culture that women are more emotional than men has limited women's opportunities in many types of work. Because emotional expression is often tightly controlled in the workplace, examining emotion management performed at work presents an opportunity to evaluate gender differences in response to similar working conditions. Previous research suggests that men and women do not differ in their experiences of emotion and the expression of emotion is linked to status positions. An analysis of survey data collected from workers in a diverse group of occupations illustrates that women express anger less and happiness more than men in the workplace. Job and status characteristics explain the association between gender and anger management at work but were unrelated to the management of happiness expressions in the workplace.
Fragmentation, dispersal and metapopulation function in remnant populations of endangered mountain caribou
Authors: van Oort H. , McLellan B. N. , Serrouya R.
Published: November 2010

Populations that are fragmented in space may persist because of metapopulation function that relies on dispersal among subpopulations. Assuming that a fragmented distribution means that the species operates as a metapopulation can lead to erroneous conclusions about population structure, unless the dispersal traits of the organism are understood. A wide‐ranging large mammal with an increasingly fragmented distribution is the mountain caribou, found in the interior rain forests of British Columbia, Canada. These caribou are an endangered ecotype of woodland caribou Rangifer tarandus caribou, and, based on movements of adult caribou, their population has been divided into 18 subpopulations. Their numbers have declined over at least the last 25 years, and it is unknown if their fragmented distribution operates as a metapopulation linked by juvenile dispersal or is simply a step towards extinction. From a database of radio‐locations collected over a 23‐year period (1984–2007) from 358 caribou, we used a spatial index to define summer/fall composite ranges (breeding ranges) across their distribution. The 18 previously recognized subpopulations were fragmented further into 41 summer/fall composite ranges. Young animals (<1 year of age) were not observed to disperse among subpopulations (0/26 opportunities) or even among summer/fall composite ranges (0/7). Similar results were found for animals 2 and 3 years of age. Breeding dispersal by adult caribou occurred in 1.4% of the observed opportunities (8/587). These dispersal rates are insufficient to rescue the smaller and declining subpopulations. We conclude that the distribution of these mountain caribou is more fragmented than thought previously and is not functioning as a classic metapopulation due to a lack of dispersal; rather, it is better described as an extreme non‐equilibrium metapopulation. Mountain caribou and other wide‐ranging species fragmented into subpopulations by human actions may appear to be in a metapopulation but unless they have the innate ability to disperse among subpopulations, the distribution is more likely the geographic pattern of the extinction process.
GPA‐9 is a novel regulator of innate immunity against Escherichia coli foods in adult Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Hahm Jeong‐Hoon , Kim Sunhee , Paik Young‐Ki
Published: November 2010

Innate immune responses to pathogens are governed by the nervous system. Here, we investigated the molecular mechanism underlying innate immunity in Caenorhabditis elegans against Escherichia coli OP50, a standard laboratory C. elegans food. Longevity was compared in worms fed live or UV‐killed OP50 at low or high density food condition (HDF). Expression of the antimicrobial gene lys‐8 was approximately 5‐fold higher in worms fed live OP50, suggesting activation of innate immunity upon recognition of OP50 metabolites. Lifespan was extended and SOD‐3 mRNA levels were increased in gpa‐9‐overexpressing gpa‐9XS worms under HDF in association with robust induction of insulin/IGF‐1 signaling (IIS). Expression of ins‐7 and daf‐28 that control lys‐8 expression was reduced in gpa‐9XS, indicating that GPA‐9‐mediated immunity is due in part to ins‐7 and daf‐28 downregulation. Our results suggest that OP50 metabolites in amphid neurons elicit innate immunity through the IIS pathway, and identify GPA‐9 as a novel regulator of both the immune system and aging in C. elegans.
Age‐related alterations in the dynamic behavior of microglia
Authors: Damani Mausam R. , Zhao Lian , Fontainhas Aurora M. , Amaral Juan , Fariss Robert N. , Wong Wai T.
Published: November 2010

Microglia, the primary resident immune cells of the central nervous system (CNS), exhibit dynamic behavior involving rapid process motility and cellular migration that is thought to underlie key functions of immune surveillance and tissue repair. Although age‐related changes in microglial activation have been implicated in the pathogenesis of neurodegenerative diseases of aging, how dynamic behavior in microglia is influenced by aging is not fully understood. In this study, we employed live imaging of retinal microgliain situto compare microglial morphology and behavioral dynamics in young and aged animals. We found that aged microglia in the resting state have significantly smaller and less branched dendritic arbors, and also slower process motilities, which probably compromise their ability to survey and interact with their environment continuously. We also found that dynamic microglial responses to injury were age‐dependent. While young microglia responded to extracellular ATP, an injury‐associated signal, by increasing their motility and becoming more ramified, aged microglia exhibited a contrary response, becoming less dynamic and ramified. In response to laser‐induced focal tissue injury, aged microglia demonstrated slower acute responses with lower rates of process motility and cellular migration compared with young microglia. Interestingly, the longer term response of disaggregation from the injury site was retarded in aged microglia, indicating that senescent microglial responses, while slower to initiate, are more sustained. Together, these altered features of microglial behavior at rest and following injury reveal an age‐dependent dysregulation of immune response in the CNS that may illuminate microglial contributions to age‐related neuroinflammatory degeneration.
Kukoamine B, a novel dual inhibitor of LPS and CpG DNA, is a potential candidate for sepsis treatment
Authors: Liu Xin , Zheng Xinchuan , Wang Ning , Cao Hongwei , Lu Yongling , Long Yupeng , Zhao Kecen , Zhou Hong , Zheng Jiang
Published: November 2010

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) and oligodeoxynucleotides containing CpG motifs (CpG DNA) are important pathogenic molecules for the induction of sepsis, and thus are drug targets for sepsis treatment. The present drugs for treating sepsis act only against either LPS or CpG DNA. Hence, they are not particularly efficient at combating sepsis as the latter two molecules usually cooperate during sepsis. In this study, a natural alkaloid compound kukoamine B (KB) is presented as a potent dual inhibitor for both LPS and CpG DNA.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH The affinities of KB for LPS and CpG DNA were assessed using biosensor technology. Direct interaction of KB with LPS and CpG DNA were evaluated using neutralization assays. Selective inhibitory activities of KB on pro‐inflammatory signal transduction and cytokine expression induced by LPS and CpG DNA were analysed by cellular assays. Protective effects of KB in a sepsis model in mice were elucidated by determining survival and circulatory LPS and tumour necrosis factor‐alpha (TNF‐α) concentrations.

KEY RESULTS KB had high affinities for LPS and CpG DNA. It neutralized LPS and CpG DNA and prevented them from interacting with mouse macrophages. KB selectively inhibited LPS‐ and CpG DNA‐induced signal transduction and expression of pro‐inflammatory mediators without interfering with signal pathways or cell viability in macrophages. KB protected mice challenged with heat‐killed Escherichia coli, and reduced the circulatory levels of LPS and TNF‐α.

CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS This is the first report of a novel dual inhibitor of LPS and CpG DNA. KB is worthy of further investigation as a potential candidate to treat sepsis.
Review of transportation choice research in Australia: Implications for sustainable urban transport design
Authors: Iftekhar Sayed , Tapsuwan Sorada
Published: November 2010

In Australia, the transportation sector is the third largest contributor of CO2‐e emissions. In order for Australia to meet the ratified target of 5% below 2000 emissions levels by 2020, a number of changes must be put in place. Sustainable transport design allows for more carbon‐friendly travelling alternatives in urban and suburban areas where transportation activities mostly occur. In order for the design to be successfully accepted by the community, a good understanding of people's travel behaviour and preferences of transportation mode is required. This paper offers a review of current transportation research in the context of Australia that spans a number of disciplines including economics, engineering and psychology. The objectives are to assess the key factors that have been empirically shown to affect individual transportation mode choice, identify the shortcoming and gaps in the literature, and recommend how this research can be used to aid in future carbon reduction through better understanding of people's travelling behaviour.
Climate protection and motor vehicle regulations: Evaluation of motor vehicle regulations in China in the context of greenhouse gas management
Authors: Cao Mingde , Xu Yixiang
Published: November 2010

Climate change requires a re‐evaluation of the regulations pertaining to motor vehicles from the perspective of greenhouse gas (GHG) management. This article evaluates the regulations of motor vehicles in China from that perspective. Technology‐based regulations on motor vehicles play an important role in reducing GHG emissions. However, technology‐based regulations are not likely to be sufficient to achieve effective GHG management. Non‐technology‐based regulations can influence the behaviour of citizens and promote climate‐friendly transport modes. They can contribute significantly to the mitigation of GHG. In China, both the regulations on automobile ownership and those on automobile utilization should be adopted in order for the country to avoid being locked into an unsustainable transportation system. Regulations to promote public transport and non‐motorized transport modes should be introduced as early as possible.
Sustainable transport indicators for Cape Town, South Africa: Advocacy, negotiation and partnership in transport planning practice
Authors: Kane Lisa
Published: November 2010

This paper charts the emergence of and the movement towards new thinking on sustainable transport in the City of Cape Town, South Africa, and the adoption of a set of indicators for sustainable transport. The paper centres on two themes. It reviews the sustainable transport concepts debated and later adopted by the City of Cape Town. It then examines the day‐to‐day practice of developing sustainable transport indicators in Cape Town over a 14‐year period, from the advent of democracy in 1994 to the present day, with a particular focus on the 2007 to 2009 period. The paper tries to shed light on the process by which ideas of sustainability get translated into indicators in the midst of many constraints including limited staff resources, uncertain politics, and changing policy priorities.
The hair collar sign – a possible indication of cranial dysraphism
Authors: Held Inka , Rose Christian , Hamm Henning , Fölster‐Holst Regina
Published: November 2010

The presence of a circumscribed area of alopecia on the scalp raises several differential diagnostic considerations. A ring of hypertrichosis around such a lesion is called “hair collar sign” and raises suspicion of ectopic neural tissue and an underlying defect of the skull. We report two cases of male newborns with a hair collar surrounding a small localized area of scalp alopecia. In one child a cephalocele was diagnosed radiologically. In the other child an osseous defect was ruled out, and the histological examination confirmed the diagnosis of rudimentary meningocele after complete excision. The importance of this clinical sign has not been addressed in the German dermatological literature.
Financial Crisis, “New” Industrial Policy, and the Bite of Multilateral Trade Rules
Authors: AGGARWAL Vinod K. , EVENETT Simon J.
Published: November 2010

The recent Great Recession has triggered substantial government intervention – not all of it macroeconomic. This article presents evidence that the sectoral incidence and forms of government intervention appear to have changed from pre‐crisis regularities. Once the commercial significance of a sector is taken into account, pre‐crisis measures of trade policy intervention poorly predict the crisis‐era sectoral incidence of discriminatory state measures imposed by Asian governments. Qualitative evidence focusing on three key countries in Asia – China, Japan, and South Korea – is also marshaled to sustain the contention that Asian governments have used the recent economic crisis to reinvigorate industrial policies, targeting apparent growth poles and apparently environmentally friendly technologies and sectors. Implications for the expansion of World Trade Organization rules and their effectiveness are discussed.
Séries de données sur les pensions et la santé: collecte de données et partage pour l'élaboration des politiques
Authors: Lee Jinkook
Published: November 2010

De plus en plus de pays élaborent des politiques de pension et de santé ou réforment celles‐ci pour répondre au vieillissement de la population et augmenter le bien‐être de leurs citoyens. Il était normal que l'adoption de politiques différentes selon les pays débouchât sur diverses expériences. D'où une occasion inhabituelle d'examiner les effets de politiques variées sur la santé et la retraite, sur le comportement individuel et familial, et sur le bien‐être. Saisir une telle occasion exige que des efforts concertés soient déployés dans la collecte des données. Un nombre croissant de pays ont accepté de fournir des données en harmonie avec l'étude sur la santé et la retraite aux Etats‐Unis (Health and Retirement Study) (HRS). Le présent article engage une discussion sur ces séries de données, et notamment sur leurs paramètres clés concernant la situation de la pension et de la santé, les plans de recherches, les échantillons et les taux de réponse. Il traite aussi des possibilités que ces données offrent pour les études transnationales et de leur intérêt pour l'évaluation et l'élaboration des politiques.
Measuring ‘normalcy’ in plant gene expression after herbivore attack
Authors: REHRIG ERIN MacNEAL , APPEL HEIDI M. , SCHULTZ JACK C.
Published: November 2010

Plants make drastic changes to their transcriptome to appropriately respond to environmental change, and the regulation of genes that are specific to abiotic and biotic stresses is a key to plant survival. The coordination of defence gene transcription is often coupled with significant adjustments in the levels of expression of primary metabolic and structural genes to relocate resources, repair damage and/or induce senescence. This complicates the process of finding suitable ‘housekeeping’ or reference genes to use in measurements of gene expression by real‐time reverse transcription (RT–PCR) in response to herbivore attack. Several software programs have been developed to identify candidate reference genes, but measurement of their expression may still not yield an appropriate gene or suite of genes for normalization. This is especially true in plant–herbivore interactions where tissue damage is immediate and continuous. Here, we show that 12 traditional reference genes customarily used in RT–PCR analysis are not stably expressed after insect attack. We describe the pitfalls of using traditional reference genes and why insect attack may be affecting whole cell metabolism. We propose a method using RNA quantification in combination with an external spike of commercially available mRNA as normalization factors in studies involving herbivory, multiple stress treatments or species where stable reference genes are unknown.
The prevalence and clinical characteristics of Charles Bonnet Syndrome in Danish patients with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Singh Amardeep , Sørensen Torben L.
Published: November 2010

Purpose:  To investigate the prevalence and clinical characteristics of the Charles Bonnet Syndrome (CBS) in a group of Danish patients with neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) and to study whether CBS is associated with a specific retinal morphology.

Methods:  Three‐hundred consecutive patients with neovascular AMD attending assessment consultations following variable series of ranibizumab therapy were actively asked whether they had symptoms of CBS. If they responded positively, a detailed questionnaire was orally administered to inquire into the details of the symptoms. Detailed optical coherence tomography and autofluorescence was performed. A comparison was made between retinal morphology of a randomly selected equal number of patients without CBS to patients with CBS.

Results:  Twenty‐five (8.3%) patients of 300 had hallucinations attributable to CBS. The median lesion size – measured as total area with increased autofluorescence – in the CBS group (median 14.2 mm2) was not significantly different from the non‐CBS group (median 16.2 mm2); however, the patients with CBS had significantly larger areas of geographic atrophy (median 2 mm2) compared to patients without CBS (median 0.3 mm2) (p = 0.002).

Conclusion:  CBS is not uncommon in an unselected population with neovascular AMD, and symptoms of CBS may be associated with larger areas of geographic atrophy.
Protecting Victims of Domestic Violence Under the UCCJEA
Authors: Goelman Deborah , Mitchell Darren
Published: November 2010

Domestic violence survivors often flee across state lines with their children to escape abuse and to seek the support of their friends and family. Judges hearing the subsequent interstate custody cases will need to consider several federal and state laws governing jurisdictional and related issues, including the Uniform Child Custody Jurisdiction and Enforcement Act (the “UCCJEA”). This article provides an overview of the UCCJEA and related laws and addresses such questions as when a court has jurisdiction to enter or modify a custody order, and how judges can use the laws to protect survivors and their children from further abuse.
Diversity and abundance of macrofungi in rubber agroforests in southwestern Nigeria
Authors: Osemwegie O. O. , Okhuoya J. A.
Published: November 2010

The mushroom diversity was studied for 14 months in Edo State, southwestern Nigeria. A total of 76 macrofungi tantamount to 333 fruit bodies were encountered, 74% of which were identified and named. The basidiomycetes and members of the family Tricholomataceae were the best represented taxa while species on wood‐based substrates made up 66% of the total mushroom taxa. The monthly mushroom abundance profile, diversity and species richness for each sampled plot correlated with local meteorological factors, age of the sampled sites and distribution of wood‐based substrates. Jaccard, Sorensen and Bray–Curtis similarity index values showed that plots A and D, representing young actively managed and old abandoned rubber tree plantations, respectively, were the most dissimilar in mushroom composition. The hypersensitive response of macrofungal fruit bodies to climate variables qualify mushrooms as veritable biomonitors or bioindicators of climate change. This study supported earlier reports that rubber agroforests are a depauperate pool of utilitarian mushrooms.
Curiosity was Framed*
Authors: WHITCOMB DENNIS
Published: November 2010

This paper explores the nature of curiosity from an epistemological point of view. First it motivates this exploration by explaining why epistemologists do and should care about what curiosity is. Then it surveys the relevant literature and develops a particular approach.
Yoga might be useful in eating disorders
Authors: Ernst E , Carei TR
Published: November 2010

Carei TR, Fyfe‐Johnson AL, Breuner CC, Brown MA.

Randomized controlled clinical trial of yoga in the treatment of eating disorders.

J Adolesc Health 2010; 46: 346–51.
Tai chi may improve physical function in individuals with peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Stevinson C , Li L
Published: November 2010

Li L, Manor B.

Long‐term tai chi exercise improves physical performance among people with peripheral neuropathy.

Am J Chin Med 2010; 38: 449–59.
The efficacy of single‐dose ADAPT‐232 on mental performance
Authors: Hung SK , Aslanyan G
Published: November 2010

Aslanyan G, Amroyan E, Garbrielyan E, Nylander M, Wikman G, Panossian A.

Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, randomised study of single dose effects of ADAPT‐232 on cognitive functions.

Phytomedicine 2010; 17: 494–9.
Using oriental medicine symptom patterns to identify prostatic hyperplasia patients who may benefit from oriental therapies
Authors: Park HM , Sagar SM , Lu A
Published: November 2010

Li S, Lu A, Wang Y.

Symptomatic comparison in efficacy on patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia treated with two therapeutic approaches.

Comp Ther Med 2010; 18: 21–7.
Therapeutic massage, thermotherapy and relaxation therapy may be used in the management of generalised anxiety disorder
Authors: Terry R
Published: November 2010

Sherman KJ, Ludman EJ, Cook AJ, Hawkes RJ, Roy‐Byrene PP, Bentley S, Brooks MZ, Cherkin DC.

Effectiveness of therapeutic massage for generalised anxiety disorder: a randomized controlled trial.

Depress Anxiety 2010; 27: 441–50.
Larger studies of melatonin for depression/sleep needed
Authors: Holt S , Serfaty MA
Published: November 2010

Serfaty MA, Osborne D, Buszewicz MJ, Blizard R, Raven PW.

A randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled trial of treatment as usual plus exogenous slow‐release melatonin (6 mg) or placebo for sleep disturbance and depressed mood.

Int Clin Psychopharmacol 2010; 25: 132–42.
Long‐term benefits of chrondroitin/glucosamine for knee osteoarthritis
Authors: Ernst E
Published: November 2010

Sawitzke AD, Shi H, Finco MF, Dunlop DD, Harris CL, Singer NG, Bradley JD, Silver D, Jackson CG, Lane NE, Oddis CV, Wolfe F, Lisse J, Furst DE, Bingham CO, Reda DJ, Moskowitz RW, Williams HJ, Clegg DO.

Clinical efficacy and safety of glucosamine, chondroitin sulphate, their combination, celecoxib or placebo taken to treat osteoarthritis of the knee: 2‐year results from GAIT.

Ann Rheum Dis 2010; 69: 1459–64.
Acupuncture for hot flushes
Authors: Stener‐Victorin E
Published: November 2010

Kim KY, Kang KW, Kim DI, Kim HJ, Yoon HM, Lee JM, Jeong JC, Lee MS, Jung HJ, Choi SM.

Effects of acupuncture on hot flushes in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women: a multicenter randomized clinical trial.

Menopause 2010; 17: 269–80.
Vitamin A in utero and early life is essential for healthy lung function
Authors: Marc I
Published: November 2010

Checkley W, West KP, Wise RA, Baldwin MR, Wu L, LeClerq SC, Christian P, Katz J, Tielsch JM, Khatry S, Sommer A.

Maternal vitamin A supplementation and lung function in offspring.

N Engl J Med 2010; 362: 1784–94.
Effect of maternal multiple micronutrient supplements on cord blood hormones
Authors: Holt S
Published: November 2010

Roberfroid D, Huybregts L, Lanou H, Henry MC, Meda N, Kolsteren P, for the Micronutriments et Sante de la Mere et de l'Enfant Study (MISAME) Group.

Effect of maternal multiple micronutrient supplements on cord blood hormones: a randomized controlled trial.

Am J Clin Nutr 2010; 91: 1649–58.
An inconclusive trial of glucosamine plus exercise
Authors: Ernst E
Published: November 2010

Ng NT, Heesch KC, Brown WJ.

Efficacy of a progressive walking program and glucosamine sulphate supplementation on osteoarthritic symptoms of the hip and knee: a feasibility trial.

Arthritis Res Ther 2010; 12: R25.
Acupuncture for insomnia
Authors: Sherman KJ , Sun JL , Lin CC
Published: November 2010

Sun JL, Sung MS, Huang MY, Cheng GC, Lin CC.

Effectiveness of acupressure for residents of long‐term care facilities with insomnia: a randomized controlled trial.

Int J Nurs Stud 2010; 47: 798–805.
Tai chi for psychosocial well‐being in older people
Authors: Hunt K , Lee LK
Published: November 2010

Lee LYK, Lee DTF, Woo J.

The psychosocial effect of tai chi on nursing home residents.

J Clin Nurs 2010; 19: 927–38.