bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential and realities of enhancing rapeseed- and grain legume-based protein production in a northern climate
Authors: PELTONEN-SAINIO P. , HANNUKKALA A. , HUUSELA-VEISTOLA E. , VOUTILA L. , NIEMI J. , VALAJA J. , JAUHIAINEN L. , HAKALA K.
Published: April 2012

Crop-based protein self-sufficiency in Finland is low. Cereals dominate the field cropping systems in areas that are also favourable for legumes and rapeseed. The present paper estimated the realistic potential for expanding protein crop production taking account of climatic conditions and constraints, crop rotation requirements, field sizes, soil types and likelihood for compacted soils in different regions. The potential for current expansion was estimated by considering climate change scenarios for 2025 and 2055. By using actual regional mean yields for the 2000s, without expecting any yield increase during the expansion period (due to higher risks of pests and diseases), potential production volumes were estimated. Since rapeseed, unlike grain legumes, is a not a true minor crop, its expansion potential is currently limited. Thus, most potential is from the introduction of legumes into cropping systems. The current 100000 ha of protein crops could be doubled, and areas under cultivation could reach 350000 and 390000 ha as a result of climate warming by 2025 and 2055, respectively. Such increases result mainly from the longer growing seasons projected for the northern cropping regions of Finland. Self-sufficiency in rapeseed could soon increase from 0·25 to 0·32, and then to 0·50 and 0·60 by 2025 and 2055, respectively. If legume production expands according to its potential, it could replace 0·50–0·60 of currently imported soybean meal, and by 2025 it could replace it completely. Replacement of soybean meal is suitable for ruminants, but it presents some problems for pig production, and is particularly challenging for poultry.
PRE- AND POSTNATAL DRIVERS OF CHILDHOOD INTELLIGENCE: EVIDENCE FROM SINGAPORE
Authors: PACHECO GAIL , HEDGES MARY , SCHILLING CHRIS , MORTON SUSAN
Published: April 2012

This study seeks to investigate what influences intelligence in early childhood. The Singapore Cohort Study of the Risk Factors of Myopia (SCORM) is used to assess determinants of childhood IQ and changes in IQ. This longitudinal data set, collected in 1999, includes a wealth of demographic, socioeconomic and prenatal characteristics. The richness of the data allows various econometric approaches to be employed, including the use of ordered and multinomial logit analysis. Mother's education is found to be a consistent and key determinant of childhood IQ. Father's education and school quality are found to be key drivers for increasing IQ levels above the average sample movement.
Aberrant internal carotid artery in the middle ear with dehiscent high jugular bulb
Authors: Lin Y-Y , Wang C-H , Liu S-C , Chen H-C
Published: April 2012

Objective:

We report an extremely rare case of an aberrant internal carotid artery in the middle ear, together with a dehiscent high jugular bulb, a combination never previously reported.

Methods:

Case report with a review of the literature.

Results:

A 24-year-old man presented with a five-year history of aural fullness, pulsatile tinnitus and mild hearing impairment in his right ear. Otoscopy revealed a retro-tympanic mass. Computed tomography of the temporal bone revealed protrusion of the right internal carotid artery into the middle-ear cavity, with a dehiscent high jugular bulb. Magnetic resonance angiography showed a reduced diameter and lateralisation of the right internal carotid artery. A diagnosis of an aberrant internal carotid artery with a dehiscent high jugular bulb was made, and the patient was managed with conservative treatment.

Conclusion:

The otologist should be aware of the possibility of an aberrant internal carotid artery when the patient presents with a retro-tympanic mass, hearing loss and pulsatile tinnitus. Radiological investigation is required to make the differential diagnosis. When an aberrant internal carotid artery presents with a dehiscent high jugular bulb, the risk of serious bleeding is elevated. We recommend a conservative approach for cases presenting without bleeding complications.
The European Court of Human Rights’ Al-Jedda judgment: the oversight of international humanitarian law
Authors: Pejic Jelena
Published: April 2012

The European Court of Human Rights' judgment in the Al-Jedda case dealt with the lawfulness of UK detention practice in Iraq under the European Convention on Human Rights. The Court's opinion could, however, be read as having broader implications for the ability of states parties to that treaty to conduct detention operations in situations of armed conflict. This article analyzes what the Court did – and did not say – about the application of international humanitarian law.
Marine microalgae attack and feed on metazoans
Authors: Berge Terje , Poulsen Louise K , Moldrup Morten , Daugbjerg Niels , Juel Hansen Per
Published: April 2012

Free-living microalgae from the dinoflagellate genus Karlodinium are known to form massive blooms in eutrophic coastal waters worldwide and are often associated with fish kills. Natural bloom populations, recently shown to consist of the two mixotrophic and toxic species Karlodinium armiger and Karlodinium veneficum have caused fast paralysis and mortality of finfish and copepods in the laboratory, and have been associated with reduced metazooplankton biomass in-situ. Here we show that a strain of K. armiger (K-0688) immobilises the common marine copepod Acartia tonsa in a density-dependent manner and collectively ingests the grazer to promote its own growth rate. In contrast, four strains of K. veneficum did not attack or affect the motility and survival of the copepods. Copepod immobilisation by the K. armiger strain was fast (within 15 min) and caused by attacks of swarming cells, likely through the transfer and action of a highly potent but uncharacterised neurotoxin. The copepods grazed and reproduced on a diet of K. armiger at densities below 1000, cells ml−1, but above 3500 cells ml−1 the mixotrophic dinoflagellates immobilised, fed on and killed the copepods. Switching the trophic role of the microalgae from prey to predator of copepods couples population growth to reduced grazing pressure, promoting the persistence of blooms at high densities. K. armiger also fed on three other metazoan organisms offered, suggesting that active predation by mixotrophic dinoflagellates may be directly involved in causing mortalities at several trophic levels in the marine food web.
Ski Overexpression in Skeletal Muscle Modulates Genetic Programs That Control Susceptibility to Diet‐Induced Obesity and Insulin Signaling
Authors: Diaz Marianne , Martel Nick , Fitzsimmons Rebecca L. , Eriksson Natalie A. , Cowin Gary J. , Thomas Gethin P. , Lê Cao Kim‐Anh , Muscat George E.O. , Leong Gary M.
Published: April 2012

Transgenic mice overexpressing chicken Ski (c‐Ski) have marked decrease in adipose mass with skeletal muscle hypertrophy. Recent evidence indicates a role for c‐Ski in lipogenesis and energy expenditure. In the present study, wild type (WT) and c‐Ski mice were challenged on a high‐fat (HF) diet to determine whether c‐Ski mice were resistant to diet‐induced obesity. During the HF feeding WT mice gained significantly more weight than chow‐fed animals, while c‐Ski mice were partially resistant to the effects of the HF diet on weight. Body composition analysis confirmed the decreased adipose mass in c‐Ski mice compared to WT mice. c‐Ski mice possess a similar metabolic rate and level of food consumption to WT littermates, despite lower activity levels and on chow diet show mild glucose intolerance relative to WT littermates. On HF diet, glucose tolerance surprisingly remained unchanged in c‐Ski mice, while it became worse in WT mice. Skeletal muscle of c‐Ski mice exhibit impaired insulin‐stimulated Akt phosphorylation and glucose uptake. In concordance, gene expression profiling of skeletal muscle of chow and HF‐fed mice indicated that Ski suppresses gene expression associated with insulin signaling and glucose uptake and alters gene pathways involved in myogenesis and adipogenesis. In conclusion, c‐Ski mice are partially resistant to diet‐induced obesity and display aberrant insulin signaling and glucose homeostasis which is associated with alterations in gene expression that inhibit lipogenesis and insulin signaling. These results suggest Ski plays a major role in skeletal muscle metabolism and adipogenesis and hence influences risk of obesity and diabetes.
Understanding how small helical proteins fold: conformational dynamics of Im proteins relevant to their folding landscapes
Authors: Figueiredo Angelo Miguel , Moore Geoffrey R. , Whittaker Sara B.-M.
Published: April 2012

Understanding the mechanism of folding of small proteins requires characterization of their starting unfolded states and any partially unfolded states populated during folding. Here, we review what is known from NMR about these states of Im7, a 4-helix bundle protein that folds via an on-pathway intermediate, and show that there is an alignment of non-native structure in urea-unfolded Im7 with the helices of native Im7 that is a consequence of hydrophobic helix-promoting residues also promoting cluster-formation in the unfolded protein. We suggest that this kind of alignment is present in other proteins and is relevant to how native state topology determines folding rates.
Histone marks: repairing DNA breaks within the context of chromatin
Authors: Miller Kyle M. , Jackson Stephen P.
Published: April 2012

Inherited or acquired defects in detecting, signalling or repairing DNA damage are associated with various human pathologies, including immunodeficiencies, neurodegenerative diseases and various forms of cancer. Nuclear DNA is packaged into chromatin and therefore the true in vivo substrate of damaged DNA occurs within the context of chromatin. Our work aims to decipher the mechanisms by which cells detect DNA damage and signal its presence to the DNA-repair and cell-cycle machineries. In particular, much of our work has focused on DNA DSBs (double-strand breaks) that are generated by ionizing radiation and radiomimetic chemicals, and which can also arise when the DNA replication apparatus encounters other DNA lesions. In the present review, we describe some of our recent work, as well as the work of other laboratories, that has identified new chromatin proteins that mediate DSB responses, control SDB processing or modulate chromatin structure at DNA-damage sites. We also aim to survey several recent advances in the field that have contributed to our understanding of how particular histone modifications and involved in DNA repair. It is our hope that by understanding the role of chromatin and its modifications in promoting DNA repair and genome stability, this knowledge will provide opportunities for developing novel classes of drugs to treat human diseases, including cancer.
Kinesin backsteps
Authors: Carter Nicholas J. , Cross Robert A.
Published: April 2012

Kinesin-1 is a walking machine that takes ~8 nm steps along microtubules. Some aspects of the molecular mechanism of walking are now clear, but many are not. In the present paper, we discuss currently controversial points, focusing on the pathways by which kinesin takes occasional backsteps. Backsteps represent failures of the forwards-biasing mechanism. By studying the mechanochemistry of backstepping, one can learn much about the underlying molecular mechanisms responsible for forwards directional bias in the walking action.
NanoStringNorm: an extensible R package for the pre-processing of NanoString mRNA and miRNA data
Authors: Waggott Daryl , Chu Kenneth , Yin Shaoming , Wouters Bradly G. , Liu Fei-Fei , Boutros Paul C.
Published: April 2012

Motivation: The NanoString nCounter Platform is a new and promising technology for measuring nucleic acid abundances. It has several advantages over PCR-based techniques, including avoidance of amplification, direct sequence interrogation and digital detection for absolute quantification. These features minimize aspects of experimental error and hold promise for dealing with challenging experimental conditions such as archival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded samples. However, systematic inter-sample technical artifacts caused by variability in sample preservation, bio-molecular extraction and platform fluctuations must be removed to ensure robust data.

Results: To facilitate this process and to address these issues for NanoString datasets, we have written a pre-processing package called NanoStringNorm in the R statistical language. Key features include an extensible environment for method comparison and new algorithm development, integrated gene and sample diagnostics, and facilitated downstream statistical analysis. The package is open-source, is available through the CRAN package repository, includes unit-tests to ensure numerical accuracy, and provides visual and numeric diagnostics.

Availability:  http://cran.r-project.org/web/packages/NanoStringNorm

Contact:  paul.boutros@oicr.on.ca

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Working with emotions in community organizations
Authors: Hoggart Paul , Miller Chris
Published: April 2012

This article argues that the emotional life of community organizations and their members has been a neglected feature of the community development process and one that has been detrimental to their strength and vitality. After a brief review of the dominant rational-instrumental models of change within community development the articles sets out to illustrate the significance of the emotions in organizational life. It provides illustrations of the entanglements that organizations can experience through a lack of awareness of individual and collective emotions and suggests how greater reflexivity here can be of benefit to organizational and individual development.
Postestimation Uncertainty in Limited Dependent Variable Models
Authors: Herron Michael C.
Published: April 2012

Many political science research articles that use limited dependent variable models report estimated quantities, in particular, fitted probabilities, predicted probabilities, and functions of such probabilities, without indicating that such estimates are subject to uncertainty. This practice, along with the reporting of “percentage correctly predicted,” can overstate the precision of reported results. In light of this, the present article describes a variety of measures of uncertainty that authors can include alongside estimates generated by limited dependent variable models. It also proposes an alternative to “percentage correctly predicted” and illustrates its calculations with congressional cosponsorship data from Krehbiel (1995).
Estimating Vote Persistence Sources without Panel Data
Authors: Shachar Ron , Shamir Michal
Published: April 2012

Vote has been found to be among the most persistent political attitudes and behavior patterns. We specify three sources of vote persistence: persistence in (observable) factors structuring the vote, habituation through repeated vote for the same party, and stable (unobservable) personal preferences. The paper proposes an estimation procedure for distinguishing among these different factors based on one-shot election surveys, that is, without need for panel data, which are not often available. Applying the procedure to Israeli 1992 election data, the results suggest that a priori fixed preferences are relevant but have little impact on vote persistence. One's past voting record has much more impact, and continuity in political attitudes and evaluations has the most effect. We tested the suggested procedure on the American national presidential elections 1972–76 panel data, which provided further validation for our suggested method.
Measurement Models for Time Series Analysis: Estimating Dynamic Linear Errors-in-Variables Models
Authors: McAvoy Gregory E.
Published: April 2012

This article uses state space modeling and Kalman filtering to estimate a dynamic linear errors-in-variables model with random measurement error in both the dependent and independent variables. I begin with a general description of the dynamic errors-in-variables model, translate it into state space form, and show how it can be estimated via the Kalman filter. I report the results of a simulation in which the amount of random measurement error is varied, to demonstrate the importance of estimating measurement error models and the superiority that Kalman filtering has over regression. I use the model in a substantive example to examine the effects of public opinion regarding nuclear power on the enforcement decisions of the Nuclear Regulatory Commission. I then estimate a dynamic linear errors-in-variables model using multiple indicators for the latent variables and compare simulations of this model to the single indicator model. Finally, I provide substantive examples which examine the effect of people's economic expectations on their approval of the president and their approval of government more generally.
Recent Developments in Dynamic Econometric Modelling: A Personal Viewpoint
Authors: Maddala G. S.
Published: April 2012

The Gods love the obscure and hate the obvious.

Brihadaranyaka Upanishad (Pre-1000 B.C.)

The quotation above (from more than three thousand years ago) essentially summarizes my perception of what is going on in econometrics.
Unified Models of Turnout and Vote Choice for Two-Candidate and Three-Candidate Elections
Authors: Sanders Mitchell S.
Published: April 2012

In this article I use a theory of individual utility maximization to derive a unified model of electoral behavior that includes both candidate choices and turnout decisions. Compared to this new unified model, existing specifications for jointly considering turnout and vote choice are found to be theoretically or empirically lacking. I provide methods for testing my model in elections with two or three candidates, and I show that the parameters of these models can be estimated without difficulty using maximum likelihood techniques. Application of these unified models to the 1988 and 1992 American presidential elections illustrates the potential contrasts between unified models and models that consider only candidate choices.
Comparison of Three Methods for the Estimation of Pineal Gland Volume Using Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Authors: Acer Niyazi , Ilıca Ahmet Turan , Turgut Ahmet Tuncay , Özçelik Özlem , Yıldırım Birdal , Turgut Mehmet
Published: April 2012

Pineal gland is a very important neuroendocrine organ with many physiological functions such as regulating circadian rhythm. Radiologically, the pineal gland volume is clinically important because it is usually difficult to distinguish small pineal tumors via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Although many studies have estimated the pineal gland volume using different techniques, to the best of our knowledge, there has so far been no stereological work done on this subject. The objective of the current paper was to determine the pineal gland volume using stereological methods and by the region of interest (ROI) on MRI. In this paper, the pineal gland volumes were calculated in a total of 62 subjects (36 females, 26 males) who were free of any pineal lesions or tumors. The mean ± SD pineal gland volumes of the point-counting, planimetry, and ROI groups were99.55±51.34,102.69±40.39, and104.33±40.45 mm3, respectively. No significant difference was found among the methods of calculating pineal gland volume (P>0.05). From these results, it can be concluded that each technique is an unbiased, efficient, and reliable method, ideally suitable for in vivo examination of MRI data for pineal gland volume estimation.
Combined Contribution of Endothelial Relaxing Autacoides in the Rat Femoral Artery Response to CPCA: An Adenosine A2Receptor Agonist
Authors: Radenković Miroslav , Stojanović Marko , Janković Radmila , Topalović Mirko , Stojiljković Milica
Published: April 2012

We examined the contribution of endothelial relaxing factors and potassium channels in actions of CPCA, potent adenosine A2receptor agonist, on isolated intact male rat femoral artery (FA). CPCA produced concentration-dependent relaxation of FA, which was notably, but not completely, reduced after endothelial denudation. DPCPX, A1receptor antagonist, had no significant effect, while SCH 58261 (A2Areceptor antagonist) notably reduced CPCA-evoked effect. Pharmacological inhibition of nitric oxide synthase or cyclooxygenase comparably reduced CPCA-evoked action, still in a lesser degree than after denudation. In the presence of buffer with high K+(100  mM), CPCA-produced relaxations were almost abolished. TEA (nonselective KCablocker), glibenclamide (KATPblocker), Ba++(KIRblocker), or ouabain (Na+/K+-ATPase inhibitor) did not change CPCA-induced relaxation. Concentration-response curve for CPCA was significantly shifted to the right after the incubation of apamin (SK channel blocker). CPCA produced concentration-dependent relaxation of FA that was partly dependent on endothelial cells. Endothelium-related portion of CPCA-elicited effect was mediated by combined action of endothelial NO, prostacyclin, and EDHF after activation of endothelial A2Areceptors. Small conductance KCachannels were involved in this action.
Critical Comparison between Modified Monier-Williams and Electrochemical Methods to Determine Sulfite in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Montes C. , Vélez J. H. , Ramírez G. , Isaacs M. , Arce R. , Aguirre M. J.
Published: April 2012

In the present work, known concentration of sulfite aqueous solutions in the presence and absence of gallic acid was measured to corroborate the validity of modified Monier-Williams method. Free and bound-sulfite was estimated by differential pulse voltammetry. To our surprise, the modified Monier-Williams method (also known as aspiration method) showed to be very inaccurate for free-sulfite, although suitable for bound-sulfite determination. The differential pulse approach, using the standard addition method and a correction coefficient, proved to be swift, cheap, and very precise and accurate.
Glucose and Fat Oxidation: Bomb Calorimeter Be Damned
Authors: Scott Christopher B.
Published: April 2012

For both respiration and combustion, the energy loss difference between glucose and fat oxidation often is referenced to the efficiency of the fuel. Yet, the addition of anaerobic metabolism with ATP resynthesis to complete respiratory glucose oxidation further contributes to energy loss in the form of entropy changes that are not measured or quantified by calorimetry; combustion and respiratory fat/lactate oxidation lack this anaerobic component. Indeed, the presence or absence of an anaerobic energy expenditure component needs to be applied to the estimation of energy costs in regard to glucose, lactate, and fuel oxidation, especially when the measurement of oxygen uptake alone may incorrectly define energy expenditure.
Evaluation of the Utility of the Random Amplified Polymorphic DNA Method and of the Semi-Specific PCR to Assess the Genetic Diversification of theGerbera jamesoniiBolus Line
Authors: Rusinowski Zbigniew , Domeradzka Olga
Published: April 2012

An attempt was made to evaluate the utility of a method which employs semi-specific PCR using partially specific primers for the coding sequence (ET) at the exon-intron contact and of the RAPD method to identify eight Polish cultivars of gerbera. It was demonstrated that the PCR method which employs semi-specific primers is as simple and economical as the RAPD method, simultaneously the images of the multiplied by means of the semi-specific PCR method DNA fragments are more complex and polymorphic than those obtained through the RAPD method. The studies of the genetic diversification ofGerberacultivars employing the aforementioned methods made it possible to conduct a concentration analysis and evaluation of the genetic distance between the lines, manifesting at the same time the superiority of the semi-random PCR method. Moreover, it transpired that the use of mixtures of RAPD primers not always leads to an increase of the number of generated polymorphic bands.
Doβ-Defensins and Other Antimicrobial Peptides Play a Role in Neuroimmune Function and Neurodegeneration?
Authors: Williams Wesley M. , Castellani Rudy J. , Weinberg Aaron , Perry George , Smith Mark A.
Published: April 2012

It is widely accepted that the brain responds to mechanical trauma and development of most neurodegenerative diseases with an inflammatory sequelae that was once thought exclusive to systemic immunity. Mostly cationic peptides, such as theβ-defensins, originally assigned an antimicrobial function are now recognized as mediators of both innate and adaptive immunity. Herein supporting evidence is presented for the hypothesis that neuropathological changes associated with chronic disease conditions of the CNS involve abnormal expression and regulatory function of specific antimicrobial peptides. It is also proposed that these alterations exacerbate proinflammatory conditions within the brain that ultimately potentiate the neurodegenerative process.
Involvement of melanocortin‐1 receptor in the hyperpigmentation of human skin autografts
Authors: XUE Chun‐Yu , DAI Hai‐Ying , LI Li , XING Xin
Published: April 2012

Hyperpigmentation frequently occurs in human skin autografts resulting in an unsatisfactory appearance. This study aimed to elucidate the role of melanocortin‐1 receptor in the hyperpigmentation process of skin autografts by analyzing the expression of melanocortin‐1 receptor. The data were correlated with the amount of melanin in autografted human skin and normal skin determined in a previous study. Immunohistochemistry, western blotting and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction were carried out to detect the expression and distribution of melanocortin‐1 receptor in skin autografts including full‐thickness skin autografts, split‐thickness skin autografts and normal full‐thickness skin. Fontana–Masson stain was used to detect melanin in all types of skin specimens. The expression level of melanocortin‐1 receptor in autografted skin was much higher than that in control normal skin, and thinner split‐thickness skin autografts had higher levels of expression of melanocortin‐1 receptor than thicker grafts. The amount of melanin in skin autografts was significantly increased compared with normal skin. The expression of melanocortin‐1 receptor correlated well with the amount of melanin in the epidermis of skin autografts. These results indicate that melanogenesis is dramatically enhanced in skin autografts by the melanocortin‐1 receptor, and suggest that overexpression of melanocortin‐1 receptor may play an important role in the hyperpigmented process of skin autografts. This study provides a novel mechanism for hyperpigmentation in skin autografts.
First record of Bregmatothrips dimorphus (Priesner, 1919) (Thysanoptera: Thripidae) in Tunisia
Authors: Elimem M. , Navarro Campos C. , Chermiti B.
Published: April 2012

During an inventory study of thrips species carried out in the central‐eastern coastal region of Tunisia in 2010 and 2011, Bregmatothrips dimorphus (Priesner, 1919) (Thysanoptera; Thripidae) was found on two host plants; barley (Hordeum vulgare Linnaeus) and sorghum (Sorghum bicolor Moench). This is the first record of B. dimorphus in Tunisia. Its distribution in other parts of the world and taxonomic characteristics are briefly presented.
CAPRA: the EPPO Computer Assisted PRA scheme*
Authors: Griessinger D. , Suffert M. , Brunel S. , Petter F.
Published: April 2012

The EPPO Secretariat has developed computer software for Pest Risk Analysis (PRA) within the EC 7th Framework Programme PRATIQUE (Enhancements of Pest Risk Analysis Techniques) and with the support of the EPPO Panels. The software, Computer Assisted PRA (CAPRA), aims to assist pest risk analysts to run the EPPO Decision‐support scheme for pest risk analysis [EPPO Standard PM 5/3(5) Decision‐support scheme for quarantine pests], and other decision‐support schemes. It is freely avaliable on the EPPO website or on http://capra.eppo.org/.
Improvements to the economic impact assessment section of the EPPO PRA scheme*
Authors: Bremmer J. , Petter F. , Baker R.
Published: April 2012

In this paper the adjustments to the economic impact assessment section of the EPPO Decision‐support scheme for pest risk analysis undertaken by the PRATIQUE EU project are described. The improvements aim to improve accuracy, consistency and transparency and include the following aspects. The wording of the questions and notes has been adjusted to enhance clarity and provide additional assistance, especially for assessing indirect impacts. Furthermore a new question has been added about the impact of the pest when all current crop protection measures are applied, and some questions have been merged. Indicators, used to measure impacts, have been added to the notes. Guidance has also been given to assist the risk assessor when selecting one of five risk ratings in order to help ensure consistency between risk assessors. Finally, a matrix model has been developed, primarily to assist with summarizing results. Wherever possible, examples have been provided.
The role of metals in soils and accumulation in the laurel forest of La Gomera (Canary Islands, Spain): preliminary results
Authors: Mora J. L. , Arbelo C. D. , Rodríguez‐Rodríguez A. , Notario J. S. , Guerra J. A. , Armas C. M.
Published: April 2012

The present study investigated the content of Al and various heavy metals (Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Ni and Zn) in soils and plant tissues of a sub‐tropical laurel forest in the Canary Islands and their relationship to the composition and structure of the forest. The content of different Al‐fractions and bioavailable (NH4Ac‐EDTA extractable) metals was analysed in a large number of soil samples and related to lithological and topographic factors. Seasonal variation of the metal content in the soil, phytomass and litter was studied at sites with different degrees of maturity or sites affected by forest dieback. Extremely large contents of bioavailable Al, Fe and Mn were observed in soils. The Al and Mn contents exert a considerable influence on ecosystem composition. The results of this study reveal the bioaccumulation of Al in Ilex canariensis Poir. and Viburnum rigidum Vent. and suggest the accumulation of Mn in Laurus novocanariensis Rivas Mart. The bioaccumulation patterns of Al were closely related to the NH4Ac‐EDTA‐extractable soil content but not as closely tied to KCl‐extractable Al, suggesting the greater importance of humic complexes in the regulation of aluminium toxicity in comparison with hydroxy‐Al interlayered 2:1 silicates. Bioaccumulation gives rise to Al‐rich litterfall inputs, allowing the exclusion of Al‐intolerant species from the understory or neighbouring vegetation.
Nectins localize Willin to cell–cell junctions
Authors: Ishiuchi Takashi , Takeichi Masatoshi
Published: April 2012

Willin is a FERM‐domain protein, which is related to the Drosophila Expanded, a protein known to be a component of the Hippo signaling pathway. We recently showed that Willin localizes at the apical junctional complex (AJC) in epithelial cells together with Par3 and regulates the contractility of the circumferential actomyosin cables by recruiting aPKC to the AJC. However, it remains unresolved how Willin becomes associated with the AJC. Here, we report that Willin binds to nectins, Ig‐family proteins, which also localize at the AJC via their homophilic or heterophilic interactions, and this binding participates in the junctional recruitment of Willin. In addition, we report that the positioning of nectins at the AJC is dependent on their binding to afadin. Thus, our results suggest that the nectin–afadin interaction plays a role in the correct localization of Willin.
Pharmacogenetics: a reality or misplaced optimism?
Authors: MUTSATSA S. , CURRID T. J.
Published: April 2012

Accessible summary

Evidence from research relating to the way genes affect medication effectiveness and side effects is reviewed.

Currently, there is strong evidence suggesting that drug response varies across individuals and this is particularly so across racial and ethnic lines. These differences are genetically determined.

There is hope that in future, an individual's genetic information can be used to help to decide which drug is effective for which person and at what dose before treatment.

The paper aims to review current evidence that supports the application of genetic information in the management and use of psychotropic medication. Although the importance of an individual's genetic makeup in the metabolism of drugs has been known for at least 50 years, it is only recently that such information is finding clinical application. A literature review of recent studies suggest that there are clear variations in the way people respond to psychotropic medication. These variations can be seen across racial and ethnic lines, and are genetically determined. The hope is that, in future we will be able to use genetic information to predict which patient will benefit from which drug and at what dose. In other fields of health care such as anticoagulant therapy, the application of pharmacogenetics is now established in routine clinical care. Several psychiatric pharmacogenetic tests are currently available, including tests for the determination of metabolic status, risk of agranulocytosis and metabolic syndrome, and selection of beneficial medications. Since nurses are the centrepiece of mental health care, these advances are likely to alter significantly future mental health nurse education and practice.
T‐cell responses to hepatitis B splice‐generated protein of hepatitis B virus and inflammatory cytokines/chemokines in chronic hepatitis B patients. ANRS study: HB EP 02 HBSP‐FIBRO
Authors: Bayard F. , Godon O. , Nalpas B. , Costentin C. , Zhu R. , Soussan P. , Vallet‐Pichard A. , Fontaine H. , Mallet V. , Pol S. , Michel M.‐L.
Published: April 2012

Summary.  A new hepatitis B virus (HBV) protein, hepatitis B splice‐generated protein (HBSP), has been detected in liver biopsy specimens from patients with chronic active hepatitis. The aim of this study was to characterize the phenotype and functions of peripheral HBSP‐specific T cells and to determine whether these T‐cell responses may be implicated in liver damage or viral control. Two groups of patients were studied: HBV‐infected patients with chronic active hepatitis and HBV‐infected patients who were inactive carriers of hepatitis B surface antigen. HBSP‐specific T‐cell responses were analysed ex vivo and after in vitro stimulation of peripheral blood mononuclear cells. Soluble cytokines and chemokines were analysed in sera and in cell culture supernatants. Few HBSP‐ or capsid‐specific T‐cell responses were detected in patients with chronic active hepatitis whereas frequency of HBV‐specific T cells was significantly higher in inactive carrier patients. HBSP activated CD8+ and CD4+ T cells that recognized multiple epitopes and secreted inflammatory cytokines. The IL‐12 level was significantly lower in sera from asymptomatic carrier patients compared to patients with chronic active hepatitis. IL‐12 and IP‐10 levels in the sera were significantly and independently correlated with both alanine amino transferase and HBV DNA levels. Our results show that the HBSP protein activates cellular immune responses in HBV‐infected patients but has probably no prominent role in liver damage. The pattern of cytokines and chemokines in sera was linked to HBV viral load and was consistent with the level of inflammation during chronic hepatitis.
Reducing maternal mortality: better monitoring, indicators and benchmarks needed to improve emergency obstetric care. Research summary for policymakers
Authors: Collender Guy , Gabrysch Sabine , Campbell Oona M. R.
Published: April 2012

Several limitations of emergency obstetric care (EmOC) indicators and benchmarks are analysed in this short paper, which synthesises recent research on this topic. A comparison between Sri Lanka and Zambia is used to highlight the inconsistencies and shortcomings in current methods of monitoring EmOC. Recommendations are made to improve the usefulness and accuracy of EmOC indicators and benchmarks in the future.
A new chronotype of Schistosoma mansoni: adaptive significance
Authors: Mouahid Gabriel , Idris Mohamed A. , Verneau Olivier , Théron André , Shaban Mahmoud M. A. , Moné Hélène
Published: April 2012

Objectives  To optimise host‐to‐host transmission, digenean trematodes (parasites) synchronize their cercarial emission patterns with the aquatic activities of their vertebrate hosts. Schistosoma mansoni has a strictly diurnal shedding pattern involving two circadian chronotypes: an early shedding pattern with a mean peak occurring at 11:00 h and a late pattern with a mean peak occurring at 16:00 h. We analysed the cercarial emergence pattern of three schistosome populations from Oman where S. mansoni is resurgent.

Methods  For each schistosome population, the cercarial emergence pattern was assessed hourly over several days. Because we identified a new chronotype hitherto unknown in S. mansoni, we undertook taxonomic characterisation based on egg morphology and mitochondrial DNA sequence (COX1).

Results  Taxonomic characterisation revealed that the three schistosome populations belong to the species S. mansoni. Hence, this is the first report of this species exhibiting a nocturnal chronotype, with the mean peak occurring at 20:00 h. We interpreted the new chronotype as being the result of a lateral transfer of S. mansoni from humans to Rattus rattus.

Conclusion  The cercarial emergence pattern of S. mansoni from Oman is circadian, exhibiting either a diurnal or a nocturnal phenotype.
The many faces of nickel allergy
Authors: Darlenski Razvigor , Kazandjieva Jana , Pramatarov Kyrill
Published: April 2012

Hypersensitivity reactions to nickel are one of the most common in the modern world. Nickel allergy prevalence is constantly growing in many countries and represents a major health and socioeconomic issue. Herein the current understanding on nickel allergy is summarized with a practical approach to the dermatologist, allergist, and general practitioner. The personal experience with some practical clinical cases of nickel dermatitis is shared. A special emphasis is put on the possible strategies for treatment and prevention of the disease.
Low incidence of benign lesions in resected suspicious renal masses greater than 2 cm: Single‐center experience from Japan
Authors: Soga Norihito , Nishikawa Kouhei , Takaki Haruyuki , Yamada Yasushi , Arima Kiminobu , Hayashi Norio , Sugimura Yoshiki
Published: April 2012

Objective:  To assess the incidence of benign renal lesions in our Japanese clinical experience with surgical resection.

Methods:  A total of 411 renal masses harvested by radical or partial nephrectomy between January 1991 and April 2011 at our institution were retrospectively assessed. The incidence of benign lesions in 1‐cm increments in diameter was determined, and a logistic regression model was used to assess relationships between the incidence of benign lesions and other factors.

Results:  Histological examination confirmed a total of 18 (4.4%) benign lesions. The incidence of benign lesions was 42.8% for nodules <1 cm and 10.0% for nodules 1 to <2 cm. In contrast, the incidence of benign lesions in each 1‐cm increment between 2 and 6 cm was 4.1–4.9%. The incidence of benign lesions 2 to <4 cm was 4.8% and of benign nodules ≥6 cm was just 0–1.0%. The incidence of benign lesions ≥2 cm (3.5%) was significantly lower than that of masses <2 cm (16.2%; P < 0.001). Multivariate analysis showed that female gender (odds ratio 3.68) and smaller mass size (<2 cm; odds ratio 4.84) were significant predictors for benign lesions.

Conclusions:  The incidence of benign lesions among renal masses ≥2 cm in diameter was found to be much lower than previously reported. This should be taken into account when designing strategies for the management of suspicious small renal masses.
Characterization of the first alginolytic operons in a marine bacterium: from their emergence in marine Flavobacteriia to their independent transfers to marine Proteobacteria and human gut Bacteroides
Authors: Thomas François , Barbeyron Tristan , Tonon Thierry , Génicot Sabine , Czjzek Mirjam , Michel Gurvan
Published: April 2012

Alginate constitutes a significant part of seaweed biomass and thus a crucial nutrient for numerous marine heterotrophic bacteria. However, the mechanisms for alginate assimilation remain largely unknown in marine microorganisms. We show here that the genome of the marine flavobacterium Zobellia galactanivorans contains seven putative alginate lyase genes, five of them localized within two clusters comprising additional carbohydrate‐related genes. The transcription of these genes and the alginolytic activity were strongly induced when Z. galactanivorans used alginate as sole carbon source. These clusters were shown to be transcribed as polycistronic mRNAs and thus to constitute operons. Several candidate enzymes were successfully overexpressed in Escherichia coli, purified and their activity tested. Particularly, AlyA1, AlyA4, AlyA5 and AlyA7 are confirmed as active alginate lyases. Zg2622 and Zg2614 are a dehydrogenase and a kinase, respectively, further converting the terminal unsaturated monosaccharides released by alginate lyases into 2‐keto‐3‐deoxy‐6‐phosphogluconate. In‐depth phylogenomic analyses reveal that such alginolytic operons originated from an ancestral marine flavobacterium and were independently transferred to marine proteobacteria and Japanese gut Bacteroides. These bacteria thus gained the capacity to assimilate the main polysaccharide of brown algae, an adaptive advantage in coastal environments but also in the gut microbiota of specific human population.
Resistance and resilience of microbial communities – temporal and spatial insurance against perturbations
Authors: Baho Didier L. , Peter Hannes , Tranvik Lars J.
Published: April 2012

Bacteria play fundamental roles for many ecosystem processes; however, little empirical evidence is available on how environmental perturbations affect their composition and function. We investigated how spatial and temporal refuges affect the resistance and resilience of a freshwater bacterioplankton community upon a salinity pulse perturbation in continuous cultures. Attachment to a surface avoided the flushing out of cells and enabled re‐colonization of the liquid phase after the perturbation, hence serving as a temporal refuge. A spatial refuge was established by introduction of bacteria from an undisturbed reservoir upstream of the continuous culture vessel, acting analogous to a regional species pool in a metacommunity. The salinity pulse affected bacterial community composition and the rates of respiration and the pattern of potential substrate utilization as well as the correlation between composition and function. Compared with the no‐refuge treatment, the temporal refuge shortened return to pre‐perturbation conditions, indicating enhanced community resilience. Composition and function were less disturbed in the treatment providing a spatial refuge, suggesting higher resistance. Our results highlight that spatial and temporal dynamics in general and refuges in particular need to be considered for conceptual progress in how microbial metacommunities are shaped by perturbations.
Global Green Governance: Embedding the Green Economy in a Global Green and Equitable Rule of Law Polity
Authors: Gupta Joyeeta , Sanchez Nadia
Published: April 2012

The global community is crossing planetary boundaries while it has not yet met the basic needs of at least one‐third of the global population. Although governance systems are developing, they are still unable to adequately deal with current global environmental problems. This article assesses global green governance, inferring that it is reactive, incoherent and fragmented, lacks the tools to implement a systemic approach, is ad hoc rather than principled, is becoming politically charged, and may be unable to support the implementation of a green economy and cope with the societal changes expected by 2050. The article concludes that fragmentation of international environmental law and policy is inevitable, but that some degree of constitutionalization is necessary to provide a rule of law framework in an increasingly globalized, networked, multilevel world.
Salary Distribution and Collective Bargaining Agreements: A Case Study of the NBA
Authors: HILL JAMES R. , JOLLY NICHOLAS A.
Published: April 2012

Traditional non‐sports unions attempt to institutionalize pay between workers by reducing productivity‐related differences in wages and increasing pay differences based on seniority and other non‐productivity‐related characteristics. Recent changes made to the collective bargaining agreements of the NBA have mirrored those of unions that are more traditional. The purpose of this article is to analyze how the changes made in the bargaining agreements of the NBA affect the salary distributions of players over time.
A study of menopausal symptoms in relation to habits of smoking and make‐up using in Japanese women aged 35–59
Authors: Oi N. , Ohi K.
Published: April 2012

Synopsis

We conducted a survey to elucidate the influence with menopause symptoms and the impact of not only smoking but also using make‐up among for Japanese women, included ages above and below the menopausal generation. The subjects of this study were 335 Japanese women from 35 to 59 years of age who were examined for the first time in the specialized women’s outpatient clinic of our institution from July 2010 to June 2011 for 1 year period. We used the items of the Menopause‐Specific Quality of Life Questionnaire. Similarly, we analysed the scores in relation to menopausal symptoms and whether the subject smoked, whether the subject used make‐up depend on women (including foundation, lip rouge, brush one’s eyebrows), how frequently she used make‐up. The JMP version 9.0 software program was used to statistically analyse the score data. Significant associations were observed in psychosocial (P = 0.0196), tended to be more severe in women before menopause and after climacteric. Furthermore, the frequency of using make‐up were negative relations with menopause symptoms (P = 0.0251) after climacteric. Smoking had made worse for physical symptoms (P < 0.001). Menopause symptoms are already experienced by younger women, especially, psychological symptoms. Also, physical conditions were influenced by smoking. Using make‐up frequently was often seen after climacteric because of appearance changes by oestrogen dynamic decline.
The clinical utility of chromosomal microarray in childhood neurological disorders
Authors: KURIAN MANJU A
Published: April 2012

This commentary is on the original article by Dale et al. on pages 618‐623 of this issue