bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Getting a virtual forester fit for the challenge of climatic change
Authors: Rasche Livia , Fahse Lorenz , Zingg Andreas , Bugmann Harald
Published: June 2011

1. The empirical study of forest ecosystem dynamics is difficult because of the longevity of trees. Many types of models were developed to assist with this problem, all of them with advantages and disadvantages. The strengths of gap models are that they are able to simulate forest dynamics under changing climatic conditions and are therefore suitable for exploring future forest dynamics.

2. Most temperate and boreal forests are managed, making it important to incorporate harvesting functions depicting a wide range of silvicultural practices into the models and to test them under different climatic conditions. This is a necessary prerequisite to the application of these models under climatic change scenarios. Most gap models, however, do not feature such submodels, which disqualifies them as decision support tools.

3. We implemented a management submodel in the gap model ForClim that is able to simulate a wide range of cutting and thinning techniques, including continuous cover forestry (‘plentering’). We tested the new submodel against long‐term data (72–111 years) from eight growth and yield research plots across climatic conditions ranging from warm‐dry to cold‐wet.

4. Stem numbers were simulated accurately in nearly all cases, basal area showed a good fit on Quercus‐dominated plots, but an over/underestimation on Fagus sylvatica‐dominated and Picea abies‐dominated plots. The diameter distributions simulated for the time of the most recent inventory did not differ significantly from empirical data except for two cases. Harvested basal area and stem numbers mostly agreed well with empirical data, but showed the same deviation from reality as simulated basal area.

5. Simulations run with an accurate management plan taken from foresters’ reports for the plots yielded nearly the same results as those run with a generic management setting.

6. Synthesis and applications. We have demonstrated that (i) the management submodel adequately depicts silvicultural treatments, including continuous cover forestry; (ii) a generic harvesting setting can be substituted for a very detailed one, thus eliminating a major source of uncertainty in assessments of future forest dynamics; and (iii) as the new version of ForClim is able to deal with widely differing current climates, it can be employed with reasonable confidence to simulate future management strategies under climatic change. Overall, this modelling work is a major step towards the use of succession models as decision support tools in forest management.
Bayesian clustering techniques and progressive partitioning to identify population structuring within a recovering otter population in the UK
Authors: Hobbs Geoffrey I. , Chadwick Elizabeth A. , Bruford Michael W. , Slater Fred M.
Published: June 2011

1. After a major decline, the UK otter Lutra lutra population is now recovering in its known strongholds (northern England, Wales and Borders and southwest England) and also in central England where the population had become small, fragmented and was reinforced with captive bred individuals. Bayesian clustering and GIS are used here to identify the genetic structure of the UK otter population and to assess expansion from strongholds and the contribution of introduced otters. Large carnivores have recently started to recolonize landscapes where they were formerly absent, especially in developed countries and understanding the expansion of these populations is essential for informing conservation management, linking fragmented populations and re‐establishing gene flow.

2. Three Bayesian clustering techniques were used (structure, geneland spatial and baps4 spatial) to estimate the number of otter populations (K). A novel progressive partitioning approach was tested to identify genetic substructuring at various hierarchical levels using successive partitions at K = 2.

3. Four regional populations were identified that reflect known population history. Isolated populations in southwest England and in Wales and its borders showed the lowest levels of genetic diversity. Higher diversity and private alleles in northern and central England reflect the proximity to genetically diverse Scottish populations and the positive effect of reintroductions.

4. Progressive partitioning was used to produce a more detailed analysis, by allowing comparison and combination of clusters identified by different techniques and by avoiding the subjective estimation and choice of K.

5. Synthesis and applications.. Although the otter population is increasing, our data show little sign of population expansion from the stronghold regions into central England, instead reflecting the success of population reinforcement in this area. Our progressive partitioning approach allows the identification of fine‐scale substructure (11 groups) that enables the prioritization of management effort including identifying barriers to dispersal within and between populations and monitoring of introduced individuals.
‘I am going to be a dad’: experiences and expectations of adolescent and young adult expectant fathers
Authors: Wilkes Lesley , Mannix Judy , Jackson Debra
Published: June 2011

Aim.  To explore the experiences of prospective adolescent fathers regarding their impending fatherhood.

Background.  Several studies indicate adolescent fatherhood is associated with multiple risk factors. Despite this, it is well documented that these young males have a potentially vital role in the lives of their child/ren and partners. Adolescent pregnancy has often been viewed with a particular emphasis on the mother and relatively little is known about the experiences and expectations of young males facing imminent fatherhood.

Design.  Narrative methods were used to collect qualitative data.

Method.  Narratives were elicited through in‐depth interviews with seven adolescent expectant fathers aged 16–22 years.

Results.  Impending fatherhood presented these young men with mixed emotions and many challenges. The pregnancies were all unplanned and though participants were all willing to face the responsibilities associated with fatherhood, they also reported feeling ill‐prepared for the challenges that lay ahead. Impending fatherhood had caused the young men to reflect on the quality of fathering they had received themselves. The young men were hoping to provide their own infant with a better quality of fathering than they had experienced.

Conclusions.  Nurses and midwives are ideally placed to provide support to young men facing impending fatherhood to better prepare them to meet the demands of their forthcoming role.

Relevance to clinical practice.  Prenatal classes should include specific sessions for prospective fathers and provide opportunities to assist young men to discuss their thoughts and concerns about impending fatherhood. It could also be useful to encourage young expectant fathers to engage in discussions with their own fathers and grandfathers. For those young men who do not have effective relationships with their own fathers, it could be useful to organise mentoring with experienced mature men who have successfully engaged in the fatherhood role.
Irish psychiatric nurses' self‐reported barriers, facilitators and skills for developing evidence‐based practice
Authors: YADAV B. L. , FEALY G. M.
Published: June 2011

Accessible summary

Although health professionals are expected to use the findings of research to guide them in their practice, it seems that many nurses do not do this. In a survey, we asked psychiatric nurses in Ireland about the things that prevented them from using the findings of research to guide them in their practice.

The psychiatric nurses in our survey told us that they do not have sufficient time to look up the research that is published in journals, that they cannot find research in journals when they look for it and that they find the research reports difficult to understand.

The majority of psychiatric nurses in our survey told us that they are more confident in finding information on the Internet and less confident in using research findings, and that when they wish to improve their practice based on research findings, they get most support from the senior nurse with responsibility for practice development.

The findings of this paper are important because they tell us that psychiatric nurses face obstacles in trying to achieve more scientifically informed practice.

Evidence‐based practice places an emphasis on integration of clinical expertise with available best evidence, patient's clinical information and preferences, and with local health resources. This paper reports the findings of a study that investigated the barriers, facilitators and skills in developing evidence‐based practice among psychiatric nurses in Ireland. A postal survey was conducted among a random sample of Irish psychiatric nurses and survey data were collected using the Development of Evidence‐Based Practice Questionnaire. Respondents reported that insufficient time to find and read research reports and insufficient resources to change practice were the greatest barriers to the development of evidence‐based practice. Practice development coordinators were perceived as the most supportive resource for changing practice. Using the Internet to search for information was the highest‐rated skill and using research evidence to change practice was the lowest‐rated skill for developing evidence‐based practice. Nurses' precursor skills for developing evidence‐based practice, such as database searching and information retrieval, may be insufficient in themselves for promoting evidence‐based practice if they cannot find evidence relating to their particular field of practice or if they do not have the time, resources and supports to develop their practice in response to evidence.
Niche‐specific contribution to streptococcal virulence of a MalR‐regulated carbohydrate binding protein
Authors: Shelburne III Samuel A. , Sahasrobhajane Pranoti , Suber Bryce , Keith David B. , Davenport Michael T. , Horstmann Nicola , Kumaraswami Muthiah , Olsen Randall J. , Brennan Richard G. , Musser James M.
Published: June 2011

Low G+C Gram‐positive bacteria typically contain multiple LacI/GalR regulator family members, which often have highly similar amino‐terminal DNA binding domains, suggesting significant overlap in target DNA sequences. The LacI/GalR family regulator catabolite control protein A (CcpA) is a global regulator of the Group A Streptococcus (GAS) transcriptome and contributes to GAS virulence in diverse infection sites. Herein, we studied the role of the maltose repressor (MalR), another LacI/GalR family member, in GAS global gene expression and virulence. MalR inactivation reduced GAS colonization of the mouse oropharynx but did not detrimentally affect invasive infection. The MalR transcriptome was limited to only 25 genes, and a highly conserved MalR DNA‐binding sequence was identified. Variation of the MalR binding sequence significantly reduced MalR binding in vitro. In contrast, CcpA bound to the same DNA sequences as MalR but tolerated variation in the promoter sequences with minimal change in binding affinity. Inactivation of pulA, a MalR regulated gene which encodes a cell surface carbohydrate binding protein, significantly reduced GAS human epithelial cell adhesion and mouse oropharyngeal colonization but did not affect GAS invasive disease. These data delineate a molecular mechanism by which hierarchical regulation of carbon source utilization influences bacterial pathogenesis in a site‐specific fashion.
Increased plant tolerance against chrysanthemum yellows phytoplasma (‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’) following double inoculation with Glomus mosseae BEG12 and Pseudomonas putida S1Pf1Rif
Authors: D’Amelio R. , Berta G. , Gamalero E. , Massa N. , Avidano L. , Cantamessa S. , D’Agostino G. , Bosco D. , Marzachì C.
Published: June 2011

The aim of this work was to assess the effects of a combined inoculum of a rhizobacterium and an arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungus on plant responses to phytoplasma infection, and on phytoplasma multiplication and viability in Chrysanthemum carinatum plants infected by chrysanthemum yellows phytoplasma (CY). Combined inoculation with Glomus mosseae BEG12 and Pseudomonas putida S1Pf1Rif resulted in some resistance to phytoplasma infection (about 30%), delayed symptom expression in nonresistant plants, improved growth of the aerial part of the infected plants (+68·1%), and altered root morphology (root tip number: +49·9%; branching degree: +82·8%). Combined inoculation with the two beneficial microorganisms did not alter CY multiplication and viability. In inoculated and infected plants, phytoplasma morphology was typical of senescent cells. A more active and efficient root system in double‐inoculated plants probably mediated the effects of the two rhizospheric microorganisms in the infected plants. The practical application of rhizospheric microorganisms for mitigating phytoplasma damage, following evaluation under field conditions, represents an additional tool for the integrated management of phytoplasmosis.
Periodontopathogen‐ and Host‐Derived Immune Response in Acute Coronary Syndrome
Authors: Alfakry H. , Paju S. , Sinisalo J. , Nieminen M. S. , Valtonen V. , Saikku P. , Leinonen M. , Pussinen P. J.
Published: June 2011

Owing to molecular mimicry, periodontal pathogen carriage may result in a systemic cross‐reactive immune response with the host. The analyses were performed to investigate if serum antibody levels to human heat shock protein 60 (HSP60) are associated with the antibody levels and salivary carriage of two periodontal pathogens, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans and Porphyromonas gingivalis, as well as with the dental status in patients with acute coronary syndrome (ACS). ACS patients (n = 141) were monitored at baseline when entering to hospital, and after 1 week, 3 months and 1 year. Periodontal status was recorded by dental radiographs, and A. actinomycetemcomitans and P. gingivalis were detected by PCR from saliva at baseline. Serum IgG and IgA antibody levels were determined at all time points. All antibody levels remained quite stable during the follow‐up. Serum IgG‐class antibody levels to A. actinomycetemcomitans and HSP60 had a strong positive correlation with each other at all time points (r∼0.4, P < 0.05). Mean serum IgG antibody levels to HSP60 were significantly higher in the A. actinomycetemcomitans IgG‐ and IgA‐seropositive than in the seronegative patients, but did not differ between the pathogen carriers compared to the non‐carriers. HSP60 antibody levels did not differ significantly between the edentulous, non‐periodontitis and periodontitis patients. Despite the observed cross‐reactivity in the systemic IgG‐class antibody response to HSP60 and A. actinomycetemcomitans, the pathogen carriage in saliva or the periodontal status did not affect the HSP60 antibody levels in ACS patients.
Autoimmune response and repression of mitotic cell division occur in inter‐specific crosses between tetraploid wheat and Aegilops tauschii Coss. that show low temperature‐induced hybrid necrosis
Authors: Mizuno Nobuyuki , Shitsukawa Naoki , Hosogi Naoki , Park Pyoyun , Takumi Shigeo
Published: June 2011

Common wheat is an allohexaploid species originating from a naturally occurring inter‐specific cross between tetraploid wheat and the diploid wild wheat Aegilops tauschii Coss. Artificial allopolyploidization can produce synthetic hexaploid wheat. However, synthetic triploid hybrids show four types of hybrid growth abnormalities: type II and III hybrid necrosis, hybrid chlorosis, and severe growth abortion. Of these hybrid abnormalities, type II necrosis is induced by low temperature. Under low temperature, elongation of stems and expansion of new leaves is repressed in type II necrosis lines, which later exhibit necrotic symptoms. Here, we characterize type II necrosis in detail. Comparative transcriptome analysis showed that a number of defense‐related genes were highly up‐regulated in seedling leaves that showed type II necrosis. Transmission electron microscopy revealed extensive cell death in the leaves under low‐temperature conditions, accompanied by abundant generation of reactive oxygen species. In addition, down‐regulation of cell cycle‐related genes was observed in shoot apices of type II necrosis lines under low‐temperature conditions. Quantitative RT‐PCR and in situ hybridization showed repression of accumulation of histone H4 transcripts in the shoot apical meristem of type II necrosis lines. These results strongly suggest that an autoimmune response‐like reaction and repression of cell division in the shoot apical meristem are associated with the abnormal growth phenotype in type II necrosis lines.
The ethylene response factor AtERF11 that is transcriptionally modulated by the bZIP transcription factor HY5 is a crucial repressor for ethylene biosynthesis in Arabidopsis
Authors: Li Zhuofu , Zhang Lixia , Yu Yanwen , Quan Ruidang , Zhang Zhijin , Zhang Haiwen , Huang Rongfeng
Published: June 2011

The phytohormones abscisic acid (ABA) and ethylene are known to play multiple roles in plant development and stress responses. Ethylene biosynthesis is affected by several factors including drought, cold and the phytohormone auxin, although the role of ABA is unclear. In this work ABA‐responsive mutants were screened and a bZIP transcription factor HY5 was identified as a negative regulator of ethylene biosynthesis via modulation of the expression of the ethylene biosynthesis genes ACS2 and ACS5. Members of the ethylene response factor (ERF) family of transcriptional repressors in Arabidopsis have been shown to modulate ABA responses and three ERF members were found to carry putative HY5‐binding cis‐acting elements. Analyses with biochemical and molecular approaches revealed that HY5 specifically binds to the G‐box region of the AtERF11 promoter to activate its transcription. We further demonstrate that AtERF11, which contains a repressor motif at its C‐terminal, interacts with the dehydration‐responsive element in the ACS2/5 promoters, to repress its expression, resulting in decreased ethylene biosynthesis. Moreover, an AtERF11 knockout mutant showed increased levels of ACS2/5 expression and ethylene emission, while treatment with ABA greatly suppressed ACS5 transcripts but not ACS2 expression and the ethylene content, indicating that AtERF11 is a key negative regulator for ABA‐mediated control of ethylene synthesis. In addition, in ethylene over‐producer mutants, ABA treatment was shown to suppress ACS5 transcripts and ethylene content, thereby affecting growth and development. Based on these data, in this research we present a model suggesting that the HY5–AtERF11 regulon is a key factor modulating ABA‐regulated ethylene biosynthesis.
Persistent, widespread papilloma formation on the penis of a horse: a novel presentation of equine papillomavirus type 2 infection
Authors: Knight Cameron G. , Munday John S. , Rosa Brielle V. , Kiupel Matti
Published: June 2011

A 9‐year‐old gelding presented with approximately 100 papillomas that covered about 75% of the distal penis. Biopsy was performed, and histology showed evidence of viral cytopathic change and koilocytosis. Polymerase chain reaction using DNA extracted from biopsied tissue amplified equine papillomavirus type 2 (EcPV‐2) DNA sequences. Sixteen months later, the horse was re‐examined and the appearance of the papillomas was unchanged. Equine papillomavirus type 2 DNA sequences were again amplified from both biopsied tissue and swabs of the penis. Papillomavirus was localized to the lesions by immunohistochemistry and in situ hybridization. An examination 2 years after the initial presentation revealed no detectable change in the appearance of the penis. The large number of papillomas and their failure to regress over an extended period support a clinical classification of papillomatosis. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first report of papillomatosis of the equine penis. This novel clinical manifestation suggests that persistent EcPV‐2 infection is possible in horses. As there is evidence that EcPV‐2 may promote development of equine penile squamous cell carcinoma, understanding the natural history of EcPV‐2 infections may be important in preventing equine penile neoplasia.
Eighteen novel MHC class I A alleles identified in Vietnamese‐origin cynomolgus macaques
Authors: Zhuo M. , Wang H.‐B. , Ling F. , Wang J.‐F. , Wang X.‐N.
Published: June 2011

We report herein the identification of 18 novel Mafa‐A alleles in cynomolgus macaques of Vietnamese origin.
Osteoporosis: An ignored complication of CVID
Authors: Baris Safa , Ozen Ahmet , Ercan Hulya , Karakoc‐Aydiner Elif , Cagan Hasret , Ozdemir Cevdet , Barlan Metin , Bahceciler Nerin N. , Barlan Isil B.
Published: June 2011

To cite this article: Baris S, Ozen A, Ercan H, Karakoc‐Aydiner E, Cagan H, Ozdemir C, Barlan M, Bahceciler NN, Barlan IB. Osteoporosis: An ignored complication of CVID. Pediatric Allergy Immunology 2011; 22: 676–683.

Background:  Multiple factors in common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) might interfere with optimal growth and maturation and potentially compromise bone health.

Methods:  We aimed to evaluate bone mineral density (BMD) of patients with CVID using dual energy X‐ray absorptiometry (DEXA) and investigate risk factors associated with decreased bone density.

Results:  Twenty‐two patients were included (M: 16, F: 6) with a mean age of 15.6 ± 9.0 yr. DEXA revealed osteopenia in 6/22 (27.3%) and osteoporosis in 9/22 (40.9%) at lumbar spine and osteopenia in 7/19 (37%) and osteoporosis in 3/19 (16%) at femoral neck sites. The age of subjects with osteoporosis was significantly higher than those without (21.6 ± 8.0 vs. 9.0 ± 5.7 yr; p < 0.0001). BMD z‐scores were significantly lower in patients with bronchiectasis compared with those without (p = 0.03). Patients with osteoporosis at femoral neck site had lower forced expiratory volume in 1 s (FEV1) (p = 0.024), FEV1/forced vital capacity (FVC) (p < 0.0001), PEF (p = 0.008), and FEF 25–75 (p = 0.013) values compared with the patients with normal BMD z‐scores. Low serum 25(OH) vitamin D levels were detected in 13/22 patients and low dietary calcium intake in 17/22 patients. BMD z‐scores at femoral neck were lower in patients with low B‐cell percentage (p = 0.03). BMD z‐score at lumbar spine was correlated with folate (r = +0.63, p = 0.004) and serum immunoglobulin G levels (r = +0.430, p = 0.04).

Conclusion:  Osteoporosis appeared as an emerging health problem of patients with CVID, the risk increasing with older age and poorer lung function. Nutritional, biochemical, and immunologic factors appeared to take part in decreased BMD. Insight into the mechanisms of osteoporosis in CVID is crucial to develop preventive strategies.
Canine Mammary Tumours, an Overview
Authors: Sleeckx N , de Rooster H , Veldhuis Kroeze EJB , Van Ginneken C , Van Brantegem L
Published: June 2011

Contents

Canine mammary tumours (CMTs) are the most common neoplasms in intact female dogs. Although the prevalence of these tumours decreases in regions where preventive ovari(ohyster)ectomy is performed, it remains an important disease entity in veterinary medicine. Moreover, treatment options are limited in comparison with human breast cancer. Nevertheless, recent human treatment protocols might have potential in bitches suffering from CMTs.
Assessing opportunity and relocation costs of marine protected areas using a behavioural model of longline fleet dynamics
Authors: Dowling Natalie A , Wilcox Chris , Mangel Marc , Pascoe Sean
Published: June 2011

Increasing use of spatial management tools in fisheries requires an understanding of fleet response, and in particular to where displaced fishing effort is likely to move. We develop a state‐dependent decision‐making model to address the spatial allocation of effort in an Australian tuna longline fishery. We assume that fishers have an economic objective in deciding where to fish, but that decisions in any period are also influenced by the remaining quota held at the time of the decision. Key features of the model include endogenous price dynamics, a moving stock and a competitive pool of different vessel types operating from different port locations. We utilize this model to illustrate fleet responses to marine reserves and limits on fishing effort. The results illustrate that the model framework provides advantages over statistically based models in that decisions made in response to the imposition of a reserve are not consistent with a proportional reallocation of effort. Rather, the stochastic dynamic model yielded an overall profit level of ∼4% higher relative to scenarios with no reserve. Incorporating the opportunity cost of a quota into the model resulted in an optimal utilization of effort, in which effort was concentrated in time periods and locations yielding maximized profit. Under a low level of effort relative to the season length, the model indicated an overall profit level 43% greater than the highest obtained when the same level of effort was applied solely within any given quarter of the season.
Freedom of information and transparency in Scotland: Disclosing persons as things and vice versa (Respond to this article at http://www.therai.org.uk/at/debate)
Authors: John Gemma
Published: June 2011

Contemporary ideals of democratic governance hold that public trust in the workings of public authorities is achieved through measures such as allowing free access to information. Yet 18 months participating in and observing the activities of users of Freedom of Information legislation – introduced in Scotland in 2005 – and civil servants disclosing information under it reveals that public trust and transparency do not always flow from increased access. Treating ‘transparency’, not as a known phenomenon, but as something that emerges in ethnographic observation and analysis, this article moves beyond an idea of transparency as being the simple revelation of an object by a subject, and in doing so challenges the fixed distinction between persons and things on which transparency as it is understood by Freedom of Information legislation appears to rely.
GENERALIZED SUPERMARTINGALE DEFLATORS UNDER LIMITED INFORMATION
Authors: Kardaras Constantinos
Published: June 2011

We undertake a study of markets from the perspective of a financial agent with limited access to information. The set of wealth processes available to the agent is structured with reasonable economic properties, instead of the usual practice of taking it to consist of stochastic integrals against a semimartingale integrator. We obtain the equivalence of the boundedness in probability of the set of terminal wealth outcomes (which in turn is equivalent to the weak market viability condition of absence of arbitrage of the first kind) with the existence of at least one strictly positive deflator that makes the deflated wealth processes have a generalized supermartingale property.
THE KALECKIAN ANALYSIS OF DEMAND‐LED GROWTH
Authors: Sawyer Malcolm
Published: June 2011

A Kaleckian model is outlined to explore how far such a model can be said to provide a demand‐led view of growth. The first issue examined is whether demand‐determined economic activity can be extended into some form of long‐term analysis. The second issue arises from a comparison between the growth rate of the employment and that of the labour force where difference between them leads to rising or falling employment rate. Hence the question arises as to the adaptation of the growth rates, and this is examined in terms of the relationship between the demand side and supply side of the economy.
More than Just Contrarians: Insider Trading in Glamour and Value Firms
Authors: Gregory Alan , Tharyan Rajesh , Tonks Ian
Published: June 2011

This study examines the patterns of, and long‐run returns to, directors’ (insiders’) trades along the value‐glamour continuum in all stocks listed on the main London Stock Exchange and analyses what these directors’ trades add to a naïve value‐glamour strategy. We consider alternative definitions of value in defining trades and in the construction of our benchmark portfolios so that directors’ trades are evaluated net of any value‐glamour effect, variously defined. We find that directors consistently trade in a contrarian fashion, buying more value stocks and selling more glamour stocks, with purchases following price falls and sales following price rises. Directors’ buy signals in value stocks generate significant positive abnormal returns while the sell signals in glamour stocks generate smaller and generally insignificant negative returns. In contrast to the results from US studies, we find that the positive abnormal returns in value stocks persist for up to two‐years after the initial directors’ trading signal. Abnormal returns are particularly concentrated in smaller value stocks, and are robust to alternative definitions of value.
Passive immunization targeting pathological phospho‐tau protein in a mouse model reduces functional decline and clears tau aggregates from the brain
Authors: Boutajangout Allal , Ingadottir Johanna , Davies Peter , Sigurdsson Einar M.
Published: June 2011

J. Neurochem. (2011) 118, 658–667.

Targeting hyperphosphorylated tau by immunotherapy is emerging as a promising approach to treat tauopathies such as Alzheimer’s disease and frontotemporal dementia. We have previously reported that active tau immunization clears tau aggregates from the brain and attenuates or prevents functional impairments in two different tangle mouse models. Here, we assessed the efficacy of passive immunization with the PHF1 antibody, which targets a phospho‐epitope within one of our active immunogens. Homozygous female tangle mice (JNPL3, 2–3 months) were injected intraperitoneally once per week with PHF1 or pooled mouse IgG (250 μg/125 μL; n = 10 per group) for a total of 13 injections. Their behavior was assessed at 5–6 months of age and brain tissue was subsequently harvested for analyses of treatment efficacy. The treated mice performed better than controls on the traverse beam task (p < 0.03), and had 58% less tau pathology in the dentate gyrus of the hippocampus (p = 0.02). As assessed by western blots, the antibody therapy reduced the levels of insoluble pathological tau by 14–27% (PHF1, p < 0.05; PHF1/total tau, p < 0.0001) and 34–45% (CP13 or CP13/total tau, p < 0.05). Levels of soluble tau and sarkosyl soluble tau were unchanged, compared with controls, as well as total tau levels in all the fractions. Plasma levels of PHF1 correlated inversely with tau pathology in the brainstem (p < 0.01), with a strong trend in the motor cortex (p < 0.06) as well as with insoluble total tau levels (p < 0.02), indicating that higher dose of antibodies may have a greater therapeutic effect. Significant correlation was also observed between performance on the traverse beam task and PHF1 immunoreactivity in the dentate gyrus (p < 0.05) as well as with insoluble PHF1/total tau ratio on western blots (p < 0.04). These results show that passive immunization with tau antibodies can decrease tau pathology and functional impairments in the JNPL3 model. Future studies will determine the feasibility of this approach with other monoclonals and in different tangle models in which thorough cognitive assessment can be performed.
Effect of Sintering Atmosphere on the Microstructure and Electrical Properties of Donor‐Doped Barium Strontium Calcium Titanate Pyroelectric Ceramics
Authors: Mao Chaoliang , Cao Sheng , Yao Chunhua , Cao Fei , Li Kui , Liu Wei , Wang Genshui , Dong Xianlin , Hu Xu , Yang Chunli
Published: June 2011

Effect of sintering atmosphere on the microstructure and electrical properties of the doped BSCT ceramics was investigated. More oxidizing sintering atmosphere weakened the donor‐incorporation effect in the sample and improved the density, grain size, resistivity, and dielectric properties. Especially, when the sintering atmosphere changed from air to O2, the resistivity and maximum of ∂ε/∂T increased about four orders of magnitude and two times, respectively, while the tan δ at TC decreased about 60%. This was very suitable and important for pyroelectric materials working at the DB mode.
Effect of (Bi,Gd)FeO3 Layer Thickness on the Microstructure and Electrical Properties of BiFeO3 Thin Films
Authors: Wu Jiagang , Wang John , Xiao Dingquan , Zhu Jianguo
Published: June 2011

BiFeO3/(Bi,Gd)FeO3 (BFO/BGFO) bilayered thin films with different BGFO layer thicknesses were grown on SrRuO3/Pt/TiO2/SiO2/Si(100) substrates using radio frequency sputtering. The grain size of BFO layer changes with the thickness of BGFO layer, and the BGFO layer decreases the leakage current density of BFO. The electrical properties of BFO/BGFO are tailored by changing the BGFO layer thickness. The dielectric constant (εr) of BFO/BGFO decreases with increasing BGFO layer thickness, owing to a smaller εr value of BGFO. The BFO206/BGFO150 layer has better ferroelectric properties (2Pr ~ 137.7 μC/cm2 and 2Ec ~ 722.0 kV/cm) due to the enhancement in (111) orientation and a denser microstructure. All bilayers have a much better fatigue behavior than that of BFO single layer. Moreover, the fatigue behavior of BFO/BGFO is dependent on the film orientation induced by different BGFO layer thicknesses, and the BFO206/BGFO220 bilayer exhibits a best fatigue endurance due to the (100) orientation. The fatigue mechanisms are illuminated by the frequency‐dependent dielectric behavior and the resistivity as well as the leakage behavior before and after fatigue. As a result, the bilayer structure is an effective way to improve the electrical behavior of bismuth ferrite.
Long‐term salivary function after conditioning with busulfan, fractionated or single‐dose TBI
Authors: Garming‐Legert K , Remberger M , Ringdén O , Hassan M , Dahllöf G
Published: June 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 670–676

Objectives:  Does conditioning with fractionated total body irradiation (fTBI) or busulfan (Bu) causes less salivary dysfunction compared with single dose (sTBI) after hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT).

Patients and methods:  A total of 74 adolescents below 13 years of age received allogeneic HSCT and conditioning with either: sTBI, fTBI or Bu. The unstimulated (USSR) and stimulated (SSSR) whole salivary secretion rates were measured at 15 years of age.

Results:  Irrespective of conditioning type, there were no significant differences in USSR or SSSR between groups. Girls had a significantly lower SSSR, 0.7 ± 0.3 ml per min compared with 1.1 ± 0.4 ml per min in boys (P < 0.001). A significant correlation between age at HSCT and SSSR at 15 years of age (P = 0.02) in children conditioned with sTBI was found as well as an inverse correlation between the plasma area under curve (AUC) of Bu and SSSR. In the multivariate model, only female sex was significantly correlated with low SSSR at 15 years of age (OR 3.93, 95% CI 1.21–12.79; P = 0.021).

Conclusion:  No differences in long‐term whole salivary function after HSCT in adolescents receiving conditioning with sTBI, fTBI or Bu were found. Total systemic exposure to Bu was negatively correlated with stimulated salivary secretion.
Genistein attenuates genioglossus muscle fatigue under chronic intermittent hypoxia by down‐regulation of oxidative stress level and up‐regulation of antioxidant enzyme activity through ERK1/2 signaling pathway
Authors: Ding WH , Liu YH
Published: June 2011

Oral Diseases (2011) 17, 677–684

Objective:  This study aims to investigate the effects of genistein on contractile properties of genioglossus under chronic intermittent hypoxia (CIH) conditions and its relationship with oxidative stress, antioxidant enzyme, and ERK1/2 signaling pathway.

Materials and Methods:  Fifty female Sprague–Dawley rats were randomly divided into five groups 1 week after ovariectomy: the normal control group, the CIH group, the CIH with low‐dose, medium‐dose, and high‐dose genistein groups. Rats in the latter four groups were exposed to CIH for 5 weeks. Twitch tension, tetanic tension, and fatigue resistance of genioglossus were investigated. Malondialdehyde (MDA) and mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS), enzymatic activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD), glutathione peroxidase (GPx), catalase (CAT), and ERK1/2 were detected.

Results:  Muscle fatigue resistance and enzymatic activity of GPx, CAT, and SOD were reduced after CIH exposure and improved by different doses of genistein at different degrees. CIH increased the level of ROS and MDA, and they were returned to normal by genistein. The expression of phospho‐ERK1/2 is opposite to the changes in muscle fatigue resistance.

Conclusion:  Chronic intermittent hypoxia decreases fatigue resistance of genioglossus, and genistein treatment reverses the fatigability of genioglossus by down‐regulation of oxidative stress level and up‐regulation of antioxidant enzymatic activity probably through ERK1/2 signaling pathway.
Sustainable Value Analysis: Sustainability in a New Light  Results of the EU SVAPPAS Project Analyse de la valeur durable : Le projet SVAPPAS de l’Union européenne éclaire la durabilité sous un jour nouveau  Sustainable‐Value‐Analyse: Nachhaltigkeit in einem neuen Licht als Ergebnis des SVAPPAS‐Projekts der EU
Authors: Mondelaers Koen , Van Huylenbroeck Guido , Lauwers Ludwig
Published: June 2011

summary

Sustainable Value Analysis: Sustainability in a New Light Results of the EU SVAPPAS Project

Most sustainability measurement instruments apply a burden‐based perspective, with a focus on reducing negative environmental impacts. The Sustainable Value method offers two interesting new viewpoints. First, a value‐oriented approach to impact assessment is applied. Second, Sustainable Value assesses resource use from the perspective of the resource provider (the investor), rather than from the perspective of the resource user (the farm manager), or from the perspective of the casualty of resource use (the natural environment). The method compares the value created by a firm with a set of resources with the opportunity cost of the resources used, this being the value created by an appropriately chosen benchmark. The FP6 STREP EU‐project SVAPPAS (Sustainable Value Analysis of Policy and Performance in the Agricultural Sector) tested, elaborated and applied this new method in the agricultural sector. The project also checked the suitability of the EU FADN (Farm Accountancy Data Network) data for Sustainable Value analysis. Various modifications to the original method were suggested, such as the incorporation of production functions to calculate the benchmark opportunity costs. Further, extensions of the method for policy assessment and policy design were investigated. By doing so the project provided another lens to sustainability that may complement existing paradigms.
Behavioral epigenetics
Authors: Lester Barry M. , Tronick Edward , Nestler Eric , Abel Ted , Kosofsky Barry , Kuzawa Christopher W. , Marsit Carmen J. , Maze Ian , Meaney Michael J. , Monteggia Lisa M. , Reul Johannes M. H. M. , Skuse David H. , Sweatt J. David , Wood Marcelo A.
Published: June 2011

Sponsored by the New York Academy of Sciences, the Warren Alpert Medical School of Brown University and the University of Massachusetts Boston, “Behavioral Epigenetics” was held on October 29–30, 2010 at the University of Massachusetts Boston Campus Center, Boston, Massachusetts. This meeting featured speakers and panel discussions exploring the emerging field of behavioral epigenetics, from basic biochemical and cellular mechanisms to the epigenetic modulation of normative development, developmental disorders, and psychopathology. This report provides an overview of the research presented by leading scientists and lively discussion about the future of investigation at the behavioral epigenetic level.
Collective Narcissism and Intergroup Hostility: The Dark Side of ‘In‐Group Love’
Authors: de Zavala Agnieszka Golec
Published: June 2011

This paper reviews current research on intergroup consequences of collective narcissism – an emotional investment in an unrealistic belief in exaggerated greatness of an in‐group. Integrating findings of the psychology of intergroup relations with findings regarding psychological outcomes of individual narcissism, the collective narcissism construct addresses the relationship between ‘in‐group love’ and ‘out‐group hate’. Differentiating between narcissistic and genuine positive group regard uncovers the potential of genuine ‘in‐group’ love to motivate positive out‐group attitudes and intergroup tolerance. Collective narcissism is also shown to be the aspects of positive group attachment that inspires defensive and retaliatory intergroup hostility under perceived threat. Narcissistic idealization of an in‐group is contingent on external validation and underlain by internal doubts. Collective narcissists are never fully satisfied with external acknowledgement of the in‐group and they are sensitive to anything that may undermine the in‐group’s exaggerated image.
Changes on the color parameters of air‐abraded resin composite exposed to different colored beverages
Authors: Gaglianone Livia Aguilera , Martins Joana Dourado , Rossi Thaís Régis Aranha , Saraiva Letícia Oliveira , Cavalcanti Andrea Nóbrega , Mathias Paula
Published: June 2011

Aim:  To evaluate the effect of prophylaxis using sodium bicarbonate and colored beverages on the color parameters of a resin composite.

Methods:  Eighty specimens (Z350–3M ESPE) were randomly allocated into eight groups (n = 10), according to the combination of staining solution (artificial saliva, cola, red wine, or coffee) and air‐powder abrasion with sodium bicarbonate (either performed or not performed). Specimens were immersed in the staining solution for 48 h (two 24‐h cycles). Color evaluation was based on the CIELab system. Two measurements were carried out using a spectrophotometer (Commission Internationale de L’Eclairage L* a* b* system) before and after the immersion period. Final measurement data were analyzed by two‐way anova/Tukey’s test, and comparisons were made between initial and final measurements by anova/Dunnett’s test, with a 5% significance level.

Results:  Most comparisons between initial and final measurements were statistically significant. Red wine and coffee significantly affected the color parameters (L*, b*, and ΔE). However, only coffee significantly increased a* values. When compared with untreated surfaces, air‐powder abrasion resulted in alterations of b* and a* parameters, but did not affect L* and ΔE.

Conclusions:  Both colored beverage solutions and air‐powder abrasion can affect the color of composite resin restorations.
Visuospatial over verbal demands in predicting Tower of London planning tasks
Authors: Cheetham J. Marcus , Rahm Benjamin , Kaller Christoph Philipp , Unterrainer Josef M.
Published: June 2011

The role of verbal and visuospatial information processing in Tower of London (TOL) tasks was investigated. The first part of the investigation examined the verbal and visuospatial abilities and preferred cognitive style (visualizer vs. verbalizer) of 79 participants, in an inter‐individual differences approach. Visuospatial abilities significantly predicted TOL performance, but the impact of cognitive style was negligible. The second part applied a dual‐task manipulation of concurrent interference of TOL planning tasks on verbal and visuospatial memory, using the same participants. Concurrent processing of the TOL tasks diminished visuospatial memory performance considerably but had no effect on verbal memory, and there was no interaction between cognitive style and memory. These findings clearly underscore the role of visuospatial information processing in TOL tasks and indicate little bearing of verbal or visual cognitive style on TOL problem solving. These results have important implications for TOL and cognitive style in clinical application and cognitive neuroimaging research.
Stress-Strain Behavior of an Aluminum Alloy Under Transient Strain-Rates
Authors: Kwon Y. W. , Esmaeili Y. , Park C. M.
Published: June 2011

Because most structures are subjected to transient strain-rate loading, an experimental study was conducted to investigate the stress-strain behaviors of an aluminum alloy undergoing varying strain-rate loading. To this end, uniaxial tensile loading was applied to coupons of dog-bone shape such that each coupon underwent two or three different strain-rates, i.e., one rate after another. As a basis, a series of single-strain-rate tests was also conducted with strain-rates of 0.1–10.0 s−1. When the material experienced multistrain-rate loading, the stress-strain curves were significantly different from any single-strain-rate stress-strain curve. The strain-rate history affected the stress-strain curves under multistrain-rate loading. As a result, some simple averaging of single-strain-rate curves did not predict the actual multistrain-rate stress-strain curve properly. Furthermore, the fracture strain under multistrain-rate loading was significantly different from that under any single-strain-rate case. Depending on the applied strain-rates and their sequences, the former was much greater or less than the latter. A technique was proposed based on the residual plastic strain and plastic energy density in order to predict the fracture strain under multistrain-rate loading. The predicted fracture strains generally agreed well with the experimental data. Another observation that was made was that the unloading stress-strain curve was not affected by the previous strain-rate history.
Parameter space mapping of InAs nanowire crystal structure
Authors: Dick Kimberly A. , Bolinsson Jessica , Messing Maria E. , Lehmann Sebastian , Johansson Jonas , Caroff Philippe
Published: June 2011

Crystal structure and defects have been shown to have a strong impact on III-V nanowire properties. Recently, it was demonstrated that the issue of random stacking and polytypism in semiconductor nanowires can often be controlled using accessible growth parameters (such as temperature, diameter, and V/III ratio). In addition, it has been shown that crystal phase can be tuned selectively between cubic zinc blende and hexagonal wurtzite within individual nanowires of III-V materials such as InAs. In order for such results to be generally applied to different growth setups, it is necessary to fully explore and understand the trends governing crystal phase dependencies on all accessible growth parameters, including how they relate to each other. In this study, the authors have systematically investigated the influence of temperature, diameter, V/III ratio, and total mass flow on the crystal structure of InAs nanowires grown by metal-organic vapor phase epitaxy over a broad parameter range. The authors observed that each of these accessible parameters can affect the resulting crystal structure, and that the trends for each parameter are affected by the magnitude of the others. The authors also noted that most of the parameter dependencies are nonlinear and, in fact, exhibit threshold values at which structure changes discontinuously. By optimizing each of the growth parameters, it is shown that pure ZB or pure WZ phase can be achieved for several different sets of growth conditions. The roles of nucleation kinetics, thermodynamics, and precursor chemistry are also discussed to compare the results to current nanowire growth models. The results in this work should facilitate comparison of data and transfer of knowledge between different growth systems and techniques, which, in turn, should lead to greater understanding of polytypism in nanowires and greater control and freedom in nanowire crystal phase engineering.