bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Living with Autistic Spectrum Disorders: Families, Homes and the Disruption of Space
Authors: DUIGNAN MARGARET , CONNELL JOHN
Published: April 2015

Geographical perspectives on the relationships between people with Autistic Spectrum Disorders (ASD), their home carers and the nature of domestic space are rare. People with an ASD have high levels of anxiety and a range of behaviours that create challenges for family carers. Interviews with forty carers in Sydney reveal how disruptive behaviours, including being noisy, hyperactive, obsessive and controlling, are very demanding for all carers. Carers have adapted home spaces, restricted and reduced patterns of employment and socialisation, and sometimes avoided the home, altering relationships between parents and other siblings. Home care for people with ASD has reduced the sense of home as a place of relaxation peace and stability, and, while providing a more caring environment for people with ASD, has contributed to the partial institutionalisation of the home.
Effect of Single‐ and Two‐Cycle High Hydrostatic Pressure Treatments on Water Properties, Physicochemical and Microbial Qualities of Minimally Processed Squids (Todarodes pacificus)
Authors: Zhang Yifeng , Jiao Shunshan , Lian Zixuan , Deng Yun , Zhao Yanyun
Published: April 2015

This study investigated the effect of single‐ and two‐cycle high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) treatments on water properties, physicochemical, and microbial qualities of squids (Todarodes pacificus) during 4 °C storage for up to 10 d. Single‐cycle treatments were applied at 200, 400, or 600 MPa for 20 min (S‐200, S‐400, and S‐600), and two‐cycle treatments consisted of two 10 min cycles at 200, 400, or 600 MPa, respectively (T‐200, T‐400, and T‐600). HHP‐treated samples had higher (P < 0.05) content of P2b (immobilized water) and P21 (myofibril water), but lower P22 (free water) than those of control. The single‐ and two‐cycle HHP treatments at the same pressure level caused no significant difference in water state of squids. The two‐cycle HHP treatment was more effective in controlling total volatile basic nitrogen, pH, and total plate counts (TPC) of squids during storage, in which TPC of S‐600 and T‐600 was 2.9 and 1.8 log CFU/g at 10 d, respectively, compared with 7.5 log CFU/g in control. HHP treatments delayed browning discoloration of the squids during storage, and the higher pressure level and two‐cycle HHP were more effective. Water properties highly corresponded with color and texture indices of squids. This study demonstrated that the two‐cycle HHP treatment was more effective in controlling microbial growth and quality deterioration while having similar impact on the physicochemical and water properties of squids in comparison with the single‐cycle treatment, thus more desirable for extending shelf‐life of fresh squids.
Comprehensive DNA barcoding of the herpetofauna of Germany
Authors: Hawlitschek O. , Morinière J. , Dunz A. , Franzen M. , Rödder D. , Glaw F. , Haszprunar G.
Published: April 2015

We present the first comprehensive DNA barcoding study of German reptiles and amphibians representing likewise the first on the European herpetofauna. A total of 248 barcodes for all native species and subspecies in the country and a few additional taxa were obtained in the framework of the projects ‘Barcoding Fauna Bavarica’ (BFB) and ‘German Barcode of Life’ (GBOL). In contrast to many invertebrate groups, the success rate of the identification of mitochondrial lineages representing species via DNA barcode was almost 100% because no cases of Barcode Index Number (BIN) sharing were detected within German native reptiles and amphibians. However, as expected, a reliable identification of the hybridogenetic species complex in the frog genus Pelophylax was not possible. Deep conspecific lineages resulting in the identification of more than one BIN were found in Lissotriton vulgaris, Natrix natrix and the hybridogenetic Pelophylax complex. A high variety of lineages with different BINs was also found in the barcodes of wall lizards (Podarcis muralis), confirming the existence of many introduced lineages and the frequent occurrence of multiple introductions. Besides the reliable species identification of all life stages and even of tissue remains, our study highlights other potential applications of DNA barcoding concerning German amphibians and reptiles, such as the detection of allochthonous lineages, monitoring of gene flow and also noninvasive sampling via environmental DNA. DNA barcoding based on COI has now proven to be a reliable and efficient tool for studying most amphibians and reptiles as it is already for many other organism groups in zoology.
Asian lupus in a multi‐ethnic society: what can be learnt?
Authors: Hoi Alberta
Published: April 2015

Ethnic differences in systemic lupus erythematosus account for part of the variability in disease susceptibility and expression observed in patients. By studying these racial dissimilarities in a multi‐ethnic society, it allows us greater understanding of disease epidemiology, natural history and pathogenesis affected by ethnicity. Disease outcomes and the effects on disability and quality of life have not been well studied in Asian lupus. Ethnic difference in patient perceptions of disease and treatment could also play a large role in adherence and ultimately disease outcome. Future studies that explore these areas may shed insight into better ways either to use existing treatment regimes or to measure efficacy of new therapies in lupus patients. Given the increased susceptibility and more severe disease manifestations, the Asia‐Pacific region is well placed in studying disease outcomes and effects of novel therapies.
Optimizing the use of existing therapies in lupus
Authors: Croyle Lucy , Morand Eric F.
Published: April 2015

The management of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is complicated by heterogeneous clinical presentations, a lack of universally accepted tools for the measurement of disease activity and a lack of powerful, safe, specific targeted therapies. Current medical treatment of disease activity relies on glucocorticoids as well as agents including hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) azathioprine (AZA), and less frequently cyclophosphamide. These agents are generally used in fixed, weight‐based dosing regimens, and both incomplete response and adverse effects are common. An emerging literature in SLE and other inflammatory diseases in which these drugs are used suggests that improved patient outcomes could be achieved through a different approach to their use. Measurement of drug or metabolite concentrations has been shown in a number of studies to identify under‐ and over‐dosing, predict efficacy and detect non‐adherence to therapy, with positive associations between optimum drug or metabolite levels and improved outcomes. In this paper, we will review the literature regarding the measurement of HCQ, MMF, AZA and cyclophosphamide drug and metabolite levels in SLE and inflammatory disease, and make recommendations for future research that could facilitate improved outcomes for patients with SLE.
A qualitative systematic review of the prevalence of coronary artery disease in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Ali Hassan , Ng Kiat R. , Low Andrea H. L.
Published: April 2015

Aims

To review existing literature on the prevalence/incidence of coronary artery disease (CAD), and secondarily highlight risk factors for CAD in systemic sclerosis (SSc).

Methods

A PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials search of studies (till 30 November 2013) relating to SSc and CAD was performed, retrieving 180 titles. Inclusion criteria: studies reporting CAD prevalence/incidence in SSc based on autopsy findings, coronary artery calcium scores, coronary angiographic findings and physician/patient‐reported CAD. Exclusion criteria: (i) not written in English; (ii) not concerned with human subjects; (iii) single case reports or review articles; (iv) genetic studies; and 95) other surrogate outcome measures of atherosclerosis. Quality assessment was done using the Newcastle‐Ottawa score (range 0–9).

Results

Thirteen studies (Newcastle‐Ottawa score 5–8) were selected. Of eight studies with controls, seven reported increased CAD prevalence (10–56%) or incidence (2.3%) compared to controls (prevalence 2–44%; incidence 1.5%). Of five studies without controls, CAD prevalence was 8–32%. Five of six studies reported that traditional cardiovascular risk factors were similar/reduced in SSc compared to controls. SSc was an independent risk factor for CAD, in addition to age (n = 2), hypercholesterolaemia (n = 3), male gender (n = 1), hypertension and diabetes (n = 1). Disease duration, renal involvement and pulmonary arterial hypertension were associated with CAD.

Conclusions

Systemic sclerosis is associated with an increased prevalence/incidence of CAD. SSc is an independent risk factor for CAD. The association of CAD with SSc‐related factors requires further research. Meanwhile, patients with SSc should be screened and treated for identified traditional cardiovascular risk factors.
Incomplete clearance of apoptotic cells in systemic lupus erythematosus: pathogenic role and potential biomarker
Authors: Jung Ju‐Yang , Suh Chang‐Hee
Published: April 2015

Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) is a chronic autoimmune disease with repeated inflammation against multiple organs. Although its pathophysiology is not yet unveiled, uncleared apoptotic cells and their accumulation in tissue contribute to the autoimmune disturbance in SLE. Apoptosis is a programmed cell death process, which maintains tissue homeostasis and inhibits the development of any further immune response against apoptotic remnants. Earlier studies revealed that various ‘eat‐me’ signals on apoptotic cells, bridging molecules and their receptors on phagocytes play a role in such a complicated process. Tyro3‐Axl‐Mer receptors, their bridging molecules, milk fat globulin epidermal growth factor‐8, T‐cell immunoglobulin mucin domain protein family, scavenger receptors, C1q, and pentraxins were found to be abnormal in SLE. In this review, apoptosis and clearance of its remnants are summarized, and the molecules involved in the incomplete clearance of apoptotic cells in SLE are discussed.
Preoperative computed tomography‐guided percutaneous localization of ground glass pulmonary opacity with polylactic acid injection
Authors: Hu Mu , Zhi Xiuyi , Zhang Jian
Published: April 2015

Localization of a ground glass nodule is a difficult challenge for thoracic surgeons, especially for ground glass opacities (GGOs) less than 10 mm in diameter. In this study we implement a new method for preoperative localization of pulmonary (GGOs). From October 2013 to December 2014, computed tomography‐guided percutaneous polylactic acid injection localizations were performed for five pulmonary nodules in five patients (2 men and 3 women; mean age, 59.8 years; range, 54–65 years). The injection was feasible in all patients and the localization effect was excellent. The total procedure duration was 12.6 minutes (range; 10–15) and the volume of polylactic acid injected was 0.38 mL. The wedge resections were easily and successfully performed in all five cases. The cutting margin was no less than 2 cm from the lesion. This technique is promising for the determination of GGO location in thoracoscopic surgery for wedge resection.
Shifts in the gut microbiome observed in wildlife faecal samples exposed to natural weather conditions: lessons from time‐series analyses using next‐generation sequencing for application in field studies
Authors: Menke Sebastian , Meier Matthias , Sommer Simone
Published: April 2015

Gut microbiome studies in wildlife species are of increasing interest to understand the effects of intrinsic and extrinsic factors on the variation of bacterial communities, which are associated with host health. Current research is mainly restricted to faecal samples obtained during veterinary inspections or to collection of faeces instantly after defecation. For some elusive wildlife species, the collection of faeces in the field can only occur hours or days after defecation and might be the only option to investigate their gut microbiomes. However, to interpret bacterial sequencing results, it is essential to understand how abiotic and biotic factors affect bacteria in faecal material after defecation.

We analysed gut microbiomes of two ungulate species, the giraffe (Giraffa camelopardalis) and the springbok (Antidorcas marsupialis), based on field‐collected faecal material and further investigated how exposure to the environment influenced gut bacteria over time. We applied high‐throughput microbial 16S rRNA gene sequencing to daily faecal subsamples exposed to the environment and assigned taxonomy to sequence reads. We used diversity measures, GAMs and SourceTracker (Knights, Kuczynski & Charlson, Nature Methods, 2011; 8: 761) to assess how community compositions and specifically the ratios of anaerobic to facultatively aerobic and aerobic bacteria were effected during exposure.

Our results demonstrate shifts in microbial communities over time in both species with a decrease of anaerobic bacteria and an increase of facultatively aerobic and aerobic bacteria. SourceTracker analyses revealed that the native microbiome still contributed up to 90% to the giraffe microbiome after 1 week, but only up to 31% in springbok. Furthermore, changes in proportions of bacterial taxa appeared earlier and were stronger in springboks than in giraffes. Differences in sample degradation between the species were due to a combination of environmental factors and differences in faecal characteristics.

Bacterial data derived from faecal samples without a known history can lead to false description of gut microbiomes. Therefore, we highlight the need for preliminary tests to assess up to which point such samples can still deliver reliable results. Such a strategy will enable the investigation of gut microbiomes in wildlife species where immediate sample collection is not possible.
A new measure of ecological network structure based on node overlap and segregation
Authors: Strona Giovanni , Veech Joseph A.
Published: April 2015

Despite substantial recent progress, ecologists continue to search for methods of measuring the structure of ecological networks. Several studies have focused on nestedness, a pattern reflecting the tendency of network nodes to share interaction partners. Here, we introduce a new statistical procedure to measure both this kind of structure and the opposite one (i.e. species' tendency against sharing interacting partners) that we call ‘node segregation’. In addition, our procedure provides also a straightforward measure of modularity, that is, the tendency of a network to be compartmented into separated clusters of interacting nodes.

This new analytical measure of network structure assesses the average deviation between the observed number of neighbours shared by any pair of nodes (species), and the expected number, that is computed using a probabilistic approach based on simple combinatorics. The measure can be applied to both bipartite networks (such as plant–pollinators) and unimode networks (such as food webs). We tested our approach on several sets of hypothetical and real‐world networks.

We demonstrate that our approach makes it possible to identify different kinds of non‐random network configurations (nestedness, node segregation and modularity). In addition, we show that nestedness in ecological networks is less common than previously thought, and that most ecological networks (including the majority of mutualistic ones) tend towards patterns of segregated associations.

Our analyses show that the new measure of node overlap and segregation can efficiently identify different structural patterns. The results of our analyses conducted on real networks highlight the need to carefully reconsider the assumption that ecological networks are stable due to their inherent nestedness.
Protective effect of proteins derived from Calotropis procera latex against acute inflammation in rat
Authors: Kumar V. L. , Guruprasad B. , Chaudhary P. , Fatmi S. M. A. , Oliveira R. S. B. , Ramos M. V.
Published: April 2015

The non‐dialysable proteins present in the latex of plant Calotropis procera possess anti‐inflammatory and analgesic properties.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of latex proteins (LP) on the level of inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress markers and tissue histology in the rat model of carrageenan‐induced acute inflammation. This study also aimed at evaluating the anti‐inflammatory efficacy of LP against different mediators and comparing it with their respective antagonists.

Paw inflammation was induced by subplantar injection of carrageenan, and the effect of LP was evaluated on oedema volume, level of TNF‐α, PGE2, myeloperoxidase, nitric oxide, reduced glutathione, thiobarbituric acid‐reactive substances and tissue histology at the time of peak inflammation.

Paw inflammation was also induced by histamine, serotonin, bradykinin and PGE2, and the inhibitory effect of LP against these mediators was compared with their respective antagonists at the time of peak effect.

Treatment with LP produced a dose‐dependent inhibition of oedema formation, and its anti‐inflammatory effect against carrageenan‐induced paw inflammation was accompanied by reduction in the levels of inflammatory mediators, oxidative stress markers and normalization of tissue architecture.

LP also produced a dose‐dependent inhibition of oedema formation induced by different inflammatory mediators, and its efficacy was comparable to their respective antagonists and more pronounced than that of diclofenac.

Thus, our study shows that LP has a potential to be used for the treatment of various inflammatory conditions where the role of these mediators is well established.
An exploration of the views of Australian mothers on promoting child oral health
Authors: Virgo‐Milton M , Boak R , Hoare A , Gold L , Waters E , Gussy M , Calache H , O'Callaghan E , de Silva AM
Published: April 2015

Background

An important role for parents and caregivers in the prevention of dental caries in children is the early establishment of health promoting behaviours. This study aimed to examine mothers' views on barriers and facilitators to promoting child and family oral health.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with a purposive sample of mothers (n = 32) of young children. Inductive thematic analysis was conducted.

Results

Parental knowledge and beliefs, past experiences and child behaviour emerged as major influences on children's oral health. Child temperament and parental time pressures were identified as barriers to good oral health with various strategies reported for dealing with uncooperative children at toothbrushing time. Parental oral health knowledge and beliefs emerged as positive influences on child oral health; however, while most mothers were aware of the common causes of dental caries, very few knew of other risk factors such as bedtime feeding. Parents' own oral health experiences were also seen to positively influence child oral health, regardless of whether these were positive or negative experiences.

Conclusions

Understanding parental oral health beliefs is essential to overcoming barriers and promoting enablers for good child oral health. Improving child oral health also requires consideration of child behaviour, family influences, and increasing awareness of lesser‐known influencing factors.
Postoperative discomfort after Nd:YAG laser and conventional frenectomy: comparison of both genders
Authors: Akpınar A , Toker H , Lektemur Alpan A , Çalışır M
Published: April 2015

Background

Evidence has suggested that males and females experience and report feeling pain differently. The aim of this study was to determine the postoperative perception levels of both females and males after neodymium‐doped yttrium aluminum garnet (Nd:YAG) laser frenectomy and conventional frenectomy, and to compare the perceptions between genders.

Methods

Eighty‐nine patients requiring frenectomy were randomly assigned to have treatment with either the conventional frenectomy or with the Nd:YAG laser. Postoperative discomfort (pain, chewing, talking) was recorded using a visual analog scale (VAS) on the operation day and postoperative days 1, 3, 7 and 10.

Results

According to the female VAS scores of the pain, chewing and speaking discomfort were statistically higher in the conventional group than those of the laser group on the operation day, and on the first and third postoperative days. Pain discomfort in males was statistically higher in the conventional group than those of the laser group on the operation day. Speaking discomfort in males was statistically higher in the conventional group than those of the laser group on the operation day and the first postoperative day.

Conclusions

The present study indicated that Nd:YAG laser treatment used for frenectomies provides better postoperative comfort for each gender, especially in females in terms of pain, chewing and speaking than the conventional procedure up to the seventh postoperative day. According to our results, Nd:YAG laser may provide a safe, bloodless, painless surgery and an impressive alternative for frenectomy operations.
Developmental osteology of Sciaenops ocellatus and Cynoscion nebulosus (Teleostei: Sciaenidae), economically important sciaenids from the western Atlantic
Authors: Kubicek Kole M. , Conway Kevin W.
Published: April 2015

The adult skeleton in members of the economically important Sciaenidae is well documented, but information on earlier developmental stages is sparse and often focused on a particular character complex. To generate information on skeletal development in sciaenid fishes, we investigated the ontogeny of the entire skeleton in the western Atlantic Sciaenops ocellatus (Red drum) and Cynoscion nebulosus (Spotted seatrout), which are the focus of successful captive rearing programmes within the southern United States. Development of the skeleton (excluding the basisphenoid and sclerotic bones) is complete in S. ocellatus and C. nebulosus at 14.4 mm SL and 13.5 mm SL, respectively. The basisphenoid did not appear until later in development (21.9 mm SL in S. ocellatus and 19.5 mm SL in C. nebulosus), while the sclerotic bones are not present in the material examined. No major differences are identified between the ossification sequences compiled for each species. Cynoscion nebulosus exhibited variation in the presence/absence of two elements, supraneural 1 and the coronomeckelian. Lastly, we compile and compare available information on skeletal development across members of the Sciaenidae and compare the sequence of ossification compiled for S. ocellatus to that available for Danio rerio and Salminus brasiliensis (entire skeleton), and Chanos chanos (cranium only).
Model‐based prediction of the acute and long‐term safety profile of naproxen in rats
Authors: Sahota Tarjinder , Sanderson Ian , Danhof Meindert , Della Pasqua Oscar
Published: April 2015

Background and Purpose

Despite the increasing importance of biomarkers as predictors of drug effects, toxicology protocols continue to rely on the experimental evidence of adverse events (AEs) as a basis for establishing the link between indicators of safety and drug exposure. Furthermore, biomarkers may facilitate the translation of findings from animals to humans. Combined with a model‐based approach, biomarker data have the potential to predict long‐term effects arising from prolonged drug exposure. Here, we used naproxen as a paradigm to explore the feasibility of a biomarker‐guided approach for the prediction of long‐term AEs in humans.

Experimental Approach

An experimental toxicology protocol was set up for evaluating the effects of naproxen in rats, in which four active doses were tested (7.5, 15, 40 and 80 mg·kg−1). In addition to AE monitoring and histology, a few blood samples were also collected for the assessment of drug exposure, TXB2 and PGE2 levels. Non‐linear mixed effects modelling was used to analyse the data and identify covariate factors on the incidence and severity of AEs.

Key Results

Modelling results showed that besides drug exposure, maximum PGE2 inhibition and treatment duration were also predictors of gastrointestinal ulceration. Although PGE2 levels were clearly linked to the incidence rates, it appeared that ulceration severity is better predicted by measures of drug exposure.

Conclusions and Implications

These results show that the use of a model‐based approach provides the opportunity to integrate pharmacokinetics, pharmacodynamics and toxicity data, enabling optimization of the design, analysis and interpretation of toxicology experiments.
The atypical antipsychotics clozapine and olanzapine promote down‐regulation and display functional selectivity at human 5‐HT7 receptors
Authors: Andressen K W , Manfra O , Brevik C H , Ulsund A H , Vanhoenacker P , Levy F O , Krobert K A
Published: April 2015

Background and Purpose

Classically, ligands of GPCRs have been classified primarily upon their affinity and efficacy to activate a signal transduction pathway. Recent reports indicate that the efficacy of a particular ligand can vary depending on the receptor‐mediated response measured (e.g. activating G proteins, other downstream responses, internalization). Previously, we reported that inverse agonists induce both homo‐ and heterologous desensitization, similar to agonist stimulation, at the Gs‐coupled 5‐HT7 receptor. The primary objective of this study was to determine whether different inverse agonists at the 5‐HT7 receptor also induce internalization and/or degradation of 5‐HT7 receptors.

Experimental Approach

HEK293 cells expressing 5‐HT7(a, b or d) receptors were pre‐incubated with 5‐HT, clozapine, olanzapine, mesulergine or SB269970 and their effects upon receptor density, AC activity, internalization, recruitment of β‐arrestins and lysosomal trafficking were measured.

Key Results

The agonist 5‐HT and three out of four inverse agonists tested increased internalization independently of β‐arrestin recruitment. Among these, only the atypical antipsychotics clozapine and olanzapine promoted lysosomal sorting and reduced 5‐HT7 receptor density (∼60% reduction within 24 h). Inhibition of lysosomal degradation with chloroquine blocked the clozapine‐ and olanzapine‐induced down‐regulation of 5‐HT7 receptors. Incubation with SB269970 decreased both 5‐HT7(b) constitutive internalization and receptor density but increased 5‐HT7(d) receptor density, indicating differential ligand regulation among the 5‐HT7 splice variants.

Conclusions and Implications

Taken together, we found that various ligands differentially activate regulatory processes governing receptor internalization and degradation in addition to signal transduction. Thus, these data extend our understanding of functional selectivity at the 5‐HT7 receptor.
Information use in colonial living
Authors: Evans Julian C. , Votier Stephen C. , Dall Sasha R. X.
Published: April 2015

Despite the fact that many animals live in groups, there is still no clear consensus about the ecological or evolutionary mechanisms underlying colonial living. Recently, research has suggested that colonies may be important as sources of social information. The ready availability of information from conspecifics allows animals to make better decisions about avoiding predators, reducing brood parasitism, migratory phenology, mate choice, habitat choice and foraging. These choices can play a large part in the development and maintenance of colonies. Here we review the types of information provided by colonial animals and examine the different ways in which decision‐making in colonies can be enhanced by social information. We discuss what roles information might take in the evolution, formation and maintenance of colonies. In the process, we illustrate that information use permeates all aspects of colonial living.
Isoenzyme‐ and Allozyme‐Specific Inhibitors: 2,2′‐Dihydroxybenzophenones and Their Carbonyl N‐Analogues that Discriminate between Human Glutathione Transferase A1‐1 and P1‐1 Allozymes
Authors: Pouliou Foteini M. , Thireou Trias N. , Eliopoulos Elias E. , Tsoungas Petros G. , Labrou Nikolaos E. , Clonis Yannis D.
Published: April 2015

The selectivity of certain benzophenones and their carbonyl N‐analogues was investigated towards the human GSTP1‐1 allozymes A, B and C involved in MDR. The allozymes were purified from extracts derived from E. coli harbouring the plasmids pEXP5‐CT/TOPO‐TA‐hGSTP1*A, pOXO4‐hGSTP1*B or pOXO4‐hGSTP1*C. Compound screening with each allozyme activity indicated three compounds with appreciable inhibitory potencies, 12 and 13 with P1‐1A 62% and 67%, 11 and 12 with P1‐1C 51% and 70%, whereas that of 15 fell behind with P1‐1B (41%). These findings were confirmed by IC50 values (74–125 μm). Enzyme inhibition kinetics, aided by molecular modelling and docking, revealed that there is competition with the substrate CDNB for the same binding site on the allozyme (Ki(13/A) = 63.6 ± 3.0 μm, Ki(15/B) = 198.6 ± 14.3 μm, and Ki(11/C) = 16.5 ± 2.7 μm). These data were brought into context by an in silico structural comparative analysis of the targeted proteins. Although the screened compounds showed moderate inhibitory potency against hGSTP1‐1, remarkably, some of them demonstrated absolute isoenzyme and/or allozyme selectivity.
Should children with cerebral palsy exercise?
Authors: Narayanan Unni G
Published: April 2015

This commentary is on the original article by Balemans et al. on pages 660–667 of this issue.
A floral‐derived attractant for Aedes aegypti mosquitoes
Authors: von Oppen S. , Masuh H. , Licastro S. , Zerba E. , Gonzalez‐Audino P.
Published: April 2015

The reproductive success of Aedes aegypti (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae) is strongly dependent on the availability of carbohydrates in the environment and the ability of the mosquitoes to locate them. The most significant source of carbohydrates for mosquitoes is nectar from flowering plants, which mosquitoes locate by their volatile compounds. The aim of our work was to identify plant volatile compounds that elicit a behavioral response in Ae. aegypti, which may be included in a mosquito trap for surveillance and/or control purposes. Landing‐preference bioassays were performed with plants of three species—Plectranthus neochilus Schltr. (Lamiaceae), Tagetes patula L. (Asteraceae), and Lobularia maritima (L.) Desv. (Brassicaceae)—as lures and toxic sugar baits as landing markers. Mosquitoes landed only on L. maritima. Freshly cut inflorescences of L. maritima elicited a positive flight response in both sexes of mosquitoes. The analysis of the compounds in the static head space of L. maritima was performed by solid phase microextraction (SPME). Of the single volatile compounds tested, acetophenone was attractive and 1‐octanol caused a flight aversive response. These findings are relevant as there are no reported plant‐derived compounds attractive to A. aegypti. As both the male and female mosquitoes sugar feed, traps baited with plant odors are able to lure the whole adult population, making it an interesting option for including in future mosquito surveillance traps.
Detection of cockroach faeces: consumption of fluorescent bait and production of UV‐light‐detectable faeces from German cockroach, Blattella germanica
Authors: Varadínová Zuzana , Frynta Daniel , Aulický Radek , Stejskal Václav
Published: April 2015

Cockroaches have long been recognized as a major source of allergens in the human environment. As some allergens produced by cockroaches are accumulated within their tiny faeces and may persist unseen in the environment, development of a reliable method for monitoring cockroach faeces distribution and abundance is crucial. Our aim was to explore the rate of consumption of fluorescent bait and defecation of UV‐light‐detectable fluorescent faeces from Blattella germanica (L.) (Blattodea: Ectobiidae) as a prerequisite for the establishment of faeces monitoring in the field. Laboratory experiments revealed that (1) the fluorescent bait was accepted by cockroaches as a food source and faeces produced after its consumption were fluorescent as well; (2) there was a positive relationship between the fluorescent bait consumed and production of fluorescent faeces; (3) single and brief consumption of fluorescent bait led to continuous fluorescent faeces production, giving cockroaches enough time (ca. 27 h) to deposit fluorescent faeces in an entire area of cockroach activity as well as in shelters. The amount of fluorescent bait consumed and the amount of fluorescent faeces produced was nevertheless different among males, non‐gravid females, and gravid females. We subsequently validated the new fluorescent faeces‐based monitoring technique in a semi‐field experiment with human observers, which revealed that fluorescent faeces were reliably identified and distinguished from environmental dirt when illuminated with a UV flashlight. We further discuss the biological perspectives of our findings and recommendations for practical use.
Information asymmetry and the speed of adjustment: debasements in the mid‐sixteenth century
Authors: Li Ling‐Fan
Published: April 2015

This article examines the impact of information asymmetry on the movement of London–Antwerp exchange rates against the backdrop of the Great Debasement of 1544–51. The case of the revaluation of gold coins in the Habsburg Netherlands in 1539, about which the sovereign and the public possessed similar information, is used as the benchmark to judge how far the speed of adjustment was affected by information asymmetry. This article is also part of the recent literature that estimates the degree of financial market integration in late medieval and early modern Europe. In the framework of the threshold autoregressive model, the speed of adjustment and the transaction costs associated with arbitrage are estimated, and the results are judged using the speed of communication as a benchmark since the flow of information played a critical role in financial arbitrage. The results reveal that the sixteenth‐century London–Antwerp exchange markets were already as integrated as that during the late nineteenth century, but information asymmetry severely disturbed the effectiveness of exchange arbitrage.
Effects of attention and distractor contrast on the responses of middle temporal area neurons to transient motion direction changes
Authors: Khayat Paul S. , Martinez‐Trujillo Julio C.
Published: April 2015

The ability of primates to detect transient changes in a visual scene can be influenced by the allocation of attention, as well as by the presence of distractors. We investigated the neural substrates of these effects by recording the responses of neurons in the middle temporal area (MT) of two monkeys while they detected a transient motion direction change in a moving target. We found that positioning a distractor near the target impaired the change‐detection performance of the animals. This impairment monotonically decreased as the distractor's contrast decreased. A neural correlate of this effect was a decrease in the ability of MT neurons to signal the direction change (detection sensitivity or DS) when a distractor was near the target, both located inside the neuron's receptive field. Moreover, decreasing distractor contrast increased neuronal DS. On the other hand, directing attention away from the target decreased neuronal DS. At the level of individual neurons, we found a negative correlation between the degree of response normalization and the DS. Finally, the intensity of a neuron's response to the change was predictive of the animal's reaction time, suggesting that the activity of our recorded neurons was linked to the animal's detection performance. Our results suggest that the ability of an MT neuron to signal a transient direction change is regulated by the degree of inhibitory drive into the cell. The presence of distractors, their contrast and the allocation of attention influence such inhibitory drive, therefore modulating the ability of the neurons to signal transient changes in stimulus features and consequently behavioral performance.
Saccade execution suppresses discrimination at distractor locations rather than enhancing the saccade goal location
Authors: Khan Aarlenne Z. , Blohm Gunnar , Pisella Laure , Munoz Douglas P.
Published: April 2015

As we have limited processing abilities with respect to the plethora of visual information entering our brain, spatial selection mechanisms are crucial. These mechanisms result in both enhancing processing at a location of interest and in suppressing processing at other locations; together, they enable successful further processing of locations of interest. It has been suggested that saccade planning modulates these spatial selection mechanisms; however, the precise influence of saccades on the distribution of spatial resources underlying selection remains unclear. To this end, we compared discrimination performance at different locations (six) within a work space during different saccade tasks. We used visual discrimination performance as a behavioral measure of enhancement and suppression at the different locations. A total of 14 participants performed a dual discrimination/saccade countermanding task, which allowed us to specifically isolate the consequences of saccade execution. When a saccade was executed, discrimination performance at the cued location was never better than when fixation was maintained, suggesting that saccade execution did not enhance processing at a location more than knowing the likelihood of its appearance. However, discrimination was consistently lower at distractor (uncued) locations in all cases where a saccade was executed compared with when fixation was maintained. Based on these results, we suggest that saccade execution specifically suppresses distractor locations, whereas attention shifts (with or without an accompanying saccade) are involved in enhancing perceptual processing at the goal location.
Performance, Perseverance, and the Full Picture of College Readiness
Authors: Gaertner Matthew N. , McClarty Katie Larsen
Published: April 2015

Although college readiness is a centerpiece of major educational initiatives such as the Common Core State Standards, few systems have been implemented to track children's progress toward this goal. Instead, college‐readiness information is typically conveyed late in a student's high‐school career, and tends to focus solely on academic accomplishments—grades and admissions test scores. Late‐stage feedback can be problematic for students who need to correct course, so the purpose of this research is to develop a system for communicating more comprehensive college‐readiness diagnoses earlier in a child's K‐12 career. This article introduces college‐readiness indicators for middle‐school students, drawing on the National Education Longitudinal Study of 1988 (NELS), a nationally representative longitudinal survey of educational inputs, contexts, and outcomes. A diversity of middle‐school variables was synthesized into six factors: achievement, behavior, motivation, social engagement, family circumstances, and school characteristics. Middle‐school factors explain 69% of the variance in college readiness, and results suggest a variety of factors beyond academic achievement—most notably motivation and behavior—contribute substantially to preparedness for postsecondary study. The article concludes with limitations and future directions, including the development of college‐readiness categories to support straightforward communication of middle‐school indicators to parents, teachers, and students.
Linking genetic and environmental factors in amphibian disease risk
Authors: Savage Anna E. , Becker C. Guilherme , Zamudio Kelly R.
Published: April 2015

A central question in evolutionary biology is how interactions between organisms and the environment shape genetic differentiation. The pathogen Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis (Bd) has caused variable population declines in the lowland leopard frog (Lithobates yavapaiensis); thus, disease has potentially shaped, or been shaped by, host genetic diversity. Environmental factors can also influence both amphibian immunity and Bd virulence, confounding our ability to assess the genetic effects on disease dynamics. Here, we used genetics, pathogen dynamics, and environmental data to characterize L. yavapaiensis populations, estimate migration, and determine relative contributions of genetic and environmental factors in predicting Bd dynamics. We found that the two uninfected populations belonged to a single genetic deme, whereas each infected population was genetically unique. We detected an outlier locus that deviated from neutral expectations and was significantly correlated with mortality within populations. Across populations, only environmental variables predicted infection intensity, whereas environment and genetics predicted infection prevalence, and genetic diversity alone predicted mortality. At one locality with geothermally elevated water temperatures, migration estimates revealed source–sink dynamics that have likely prevented local adaptation. We conclude that integrating genetic and environmental variation among populations provides a better understanding of Bd spatial epidemiology, generating more effective conservation management strategies for mitigating amphibian declines.
Responsible Fatherhood Programs in the Parents and Children Together (PACT) Evaluation
Authors: Robin Dion M. , Zaveri Heather , Holcomb Pamela
Published: April 2015

Policy interest and support for increasing the positive involvement of fathers in their children's lives has increased substantially in recent years, with a dedicated federal funding stream for responsible fatherhood programs. These programs aim to improve fathers’ parenting, economic stability, and relationship skills, factors that are known to be associated with fathers’ socioemotional and financial support of their children. We focus on the efforts of four fatherhood programs participating in a large‐scale evaluation sponsored by the Administration for Children and Families at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. We conclude that fathers in these programs, the majority of whom have nonresidential children, are strongly motivated to be more involved with and support their children despite numerous barriers, including difficult co‐parenting relationships and problems with access to their children. Findings show that large numbers of fathers voluntarily enroll and participate in fatherhood program services in an effort to improve their situations. Future reports will describe the effects of these services on the well‐being of the fathers and their families.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

The federal government is devoting considerable resources to programs to help fathers become more involved with and supportive of their children.

Many participating fathers lack formal visitation or parenting‐time agreements because they were not married to the mothers of their children and no longer live with them.

Research to learn how these programs work is growing; this article describes preliminary findings from an evaluation of four federal responsible fatherhood programs.
Parenting Time in Texas Child Support Cases
Authors: Key Alicia G.
Published: April 2015

The Texas Title IV‐D child support agency has, on a universal basis, included parenting plans in its child support orders for the last thirty years. While most state child support agencies are just beginning to consider the idea of parenting time orders, Texas has successfully navigated federal regulations and federal funding limitations to ensure that parenting time is made available, as fairly and safely as possible. This article explains how this achievement has been possible, with the existence in Texas law of a standard possession order and a set of simple child support guidelines. It also discusses a variety of innovative and collaborative activities to inform and educate the public about the availability of these services.

Keypoints for the Family Court Community

It is possible for a state child support enforcement agency to obtain child support orders that routinely include parenting time provisions for the nonresident parent.

The inclusion of parenting time in all orders can be accomplished effectively and safely in Texas due to strong public policy, supportive legislation, and agency practices that are innovative and collaborative.
The Modern Family Court Judge: Knowledge, Qualities, and Skills for Success
Authors: Knowlton Natalie Anne
Published: April 2015

Family court judges deserve great respect. They make significant decisions affecting our nation's families, yet these judges are often undervalued, even by their peers on the bench. And there is insufficient acknowledgement of the broad expertise required to do the job well. This publication aims to change this by drawing attention to the special knowledge, qualities, and skills that these judges need to be successful—and hopefully reprioritizing and revaluing their role in the legal system.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Family court is not a “pots and pans” rotation, it is a rotation into people's lives, and an opportunity to positively shape outcomes that will affect children and families forever.

It is critically important to have a highly skilled and dedicated judicial officer making decisions that forever impact America's families.

Because of the complex, multidimensional nature of their cases, family court judges must possess additional knowledge, skills, and qualities not required by their colleagues who handle other case types.

Judicial education plays an indispensable role in fostering highly skilled and dedicated family court judges.
Legal Permanency Isn't Everything: Readdressing The Need For Well‐Being Indicators In Child Protection Courts
Authors: Walsh Amanda M.
Published: April 2015

In recent years, the child welfare system has begun to focus on the overall outcomes of children by looking at overall well‐being factors. However, despite this shift by social service practitioners, child protection courts have failed to similarly shift focus onto the long‐term outcomes of children and remain focused only on legal permanency. This failure to recognize the importance of overall outcomes and other forms of permanency, such as relational permanence, on the future of system‐involved youth can have devastating consequences. This article argues that child protection courts should integrate well‐being indicators similar to problem‐solving courts in order to have a greater influence on the overall outcome of these children.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Identifies the importance of well‐being indicators and discusses the need for the child welfare system to focus on overall outcomes of children

Addresses a gap between social service practitioners and the child protection court on working towards overall well‐being

Educates child protection court and other child welfare actors on the different forms of permanence affecting system‐involved youth

Discusses therapeutic jurisprudence and how this theory is integrated into problem‐solving courts

Offers suggestion for how to integrate well‐being indicators into child protection courts
Credibility and Multiple SEOs: What Happens When Firms Return to the Capital Market?
Authors: Walker Mark D. , Yost Keven , Zhao Jing
Published: April 2015

Using a sample of firms that conducted multiple seasoned equity offerings (SEOs) from 1995 to 2012, we examine whether firms can build credibility for subsequent SEOs by following through on their stated use of the proceeds from earlier SEOs. We find that firms that state their intention to invest these funds in projects and those that make no such statements, but do invest have relatively more positive announcement returns around subsequent SEO announcements. Our results suggest that the markets are aware of the potential agency costs of equity, have a long memory, and update their beliefs as to the likely use of funds raised by firms.