bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enabling a motivated workforce: exploring the sources of motivation
Authors: Ankli Robert E. , Palliam Ralph
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper recognizes self determination theory (SDT) as a model to successfully motivate an organization's workforce and recommends SDT as a more encompassing theory of motivation. Consequently, motivation assumes a different dimension and it therefore becomes necessary to consider issues associated with autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and motivation as a predictor of performance. This paper aims to address this issue.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper initially identifies the underlying assumptions of motivation that include: people having the capacity for responsible actions, a natural aspiration to learning and understanding things, and the desire to do good at work and play. The paper then proceeds to addresses several basic issues associated with SDT, namely, cognitive, affective and psycho‐motor development. Finally, it considers perception of the self, one's psychological and emotional needs, life goals and aspirations, individual dynamism, culture and the impact of social environments as key issues that determine one's ability to self‐actualize.

Findings

The study shows SDT's relevance to discussions in organizational behavior. The findings suggest that extrinsic motivation can be deleterious to intrinsic motivation. Work‐related happiness is acquired when individuals use their personality as a motivation determinant to fulfill a mission that is meaningful to themselves too. Individuals are most resourceful and innovative when they feel motivated largely as a result of their interest, their inner satisfaction, and challenges of the work itself and not by external pressures or incentives.

Practical implications

In this regard it is recommended that human resources professionals and/or managers need to consider issues associated with autonomous motivation, controlled motivation, and motivation as a predictor of performance. Different attitudinal relationships towards work‐play necessitate distinct types of motivation. Should work and play become homogeneous, the defining role of human resources management in relation to motivation needs revisiting in particular SDT

Originality/value

This paper adds to the academic literature on motivation in a somewhat different vein by presenting autonomy, competence, and relatedness in SDT as vitally essential for psychological growth, optimal functioning, and well‐being in any fields of endeavor. The study identifies extrinsic rewards as undermining intrinsic motivation in most circumstances.
Logoleadership: breathing life into loyalty and putting meaning back into work
Authors: Mayfield Milton , Mayfield Jacqueline
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to review the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

There is an obvious, costly, and disheartening trend towards employee unhappiness at work. Popular culture abounds with symptoms.The Office,Bad Bosses, andReggie Perrintelevision series make humor of this organizational malaise, which sadly spills into other life facets such as family, friends, and health. In response, there are plenty of quick fix solutions offered – such as superficial self‐help management books, motivational seminars, and organizational initiatives such as slogans, posters, and tee‐shirts. These efforts are for naught when one considers the 2000 Hudson Institute Study finding that a mere 42 percent of employees perceive their organizations as deserving their loyalty. Corroborating research has revealed continued low commitment and employee trust in recent years, with a 2011 MetLife survey showing that only 44 percent of small business employees felt company loyalty.

Practical implications

This paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.
Getting the most out of social learning: utilizing social media in the workplace
Authors: Sparta Paul
Published: February 2012

Purpose

This paper aims to reviews the latest management developments across the globe and pinpoint practical implications from cutting‐edge research and case studies.

Design/methodology/approach

This briefing is prepared by an independent writer who adds their own impartial comments and places the articles in context.

Findings

The concept of social learning is not new. We have been applying it since the playground. What is new, however, is how pervasive it is about to become, thanks to the convergence of social media with advances in learning technologies, and their adoption by individuals and large enterprises alike.

Practical implications

The paper provides strategic insights and practical thinking that have influenced some of the world's leading organizations.

Originality/value

The briefing saves busy executives and researchers hours of reading time by selecting only the very best, most pertinent information and presenting it in a condensed and easy‐to digest format.
Blended learning in higher education (HE): conceptualising key strategic issues within a business school
Authors: Fearon Colm , Starr Simon , McLaughlin Heather
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to create a conceptual analysis of key strategic issues for developing blended learning within a university or higher education (HE) setting.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper identifies key issues based on focus group analysis with students and reflections from staff. A conceptual grid framework was used to develop insight into blended learning and to enable a pragmatic approach for strategy making.

Findings

A discussion of key issues for strategic analysis is presented. Traditional lectures are not as popular as more interactive seminars. “Pure” e‐learning in terms of computer‐based training is not as desirable as a blended learning approach because face‐to‐face interaction between students and staff is not present. Blended learning is useful as a supplementary resource for students and a way of improving collaboration and group work. It takes time to develop a blended learning strategy and care must be taken to balance stakeholder needs as well as preserve the wider HE student experience.

Practical implications

Findings are not generalizable because the approach adopted is qualitative and conceptual in nature, yet useful insights are provided into key issues regarding blended learning within a HE setting. The conceptual analysis approach used in this paper is useful for practitioners in the organizational development of blended learning.

Originality/value

There is a paucity of useful qualitative research regarding the analysis of blended learning for strategy makers and this paper examines some key issues for analysis and organizational development.
Epidemiological profile of an urban immigrant population
Authors: Halberstein Robert
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The health status and medical care of migrant populations is an increasingly important topic in light of the recent emergence of a number of global epidemics. This paper aims to investigate the prevalence of diseases, injuries, and other health problems in the Caribbean‐American population of Miami, Florida.

Design/methodology/approach

A sample of 290 Caribbean‐born permanent adult residents of Miami, representing 17 different Caribbean countries of origin, was interviewed at three health clinics regarding current health problems and treatments. Demographic data were also collected.

Findings

In total, 38 percent of the respondents indicated past or current health problems requiring professional medical care, while an additional 7 percent engaged in self‐care. The 62 different reported conditions ranged from lung cancer to ulcers, kidney stones, clinical depression, scoliosis, and diverticulitis. The most frequently stated disorders were hypertension, asthma, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and arthritis. Anti‐hypertensives, cardiac modifiers, and analgesics accounted for the majority of the 26 reported prescription medications. A smaller number indicated the usage of chemotherapy, insulin, allergy medicines, and other individualized prescriptions. A total of 62.5 percent of the respondents employed traditional medicinal plants for preventive and therapeutic care or to supplement biomedicines in the treatment of culture‐bound syndromes.

Research limitations/implications

The epidemiological profile of this sample suggests a positive correlation between genetically‐influenced degenerative disorders and urbanization.

Originality/value

This research reveals the health profile of a previously unstudied population and hopefully will guide future treatment plans for this and similar communities.
Exploring migrants' health seeking strategies: the case of Latin American migrants in London
Authors: Gideon Jasmine
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The objective of this paper is to examine the health seeking strategies of Latin American migrants in London.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a small case study analysis conducted with Latin American migrants in London and relevant stakeholders.

Findings

The paper highlights that even where Latin American migrants do have entitlements to use the NHS, a series of informal barriers limits their access. As a consequence many employ a range of transnational health‐seeking strategies in order to seek resolution to their health problems. These findings repeat those identified in other studies and point to the need to gain a better understanding of migrant's exclusion and marginalisation in relation to formal health care providers. At the same time, the findings point to the lack of long‐term resolution many migrants experience in relation to their health care needs, raising important questions about health inequalities.

Research limitations/implications

Latin Americans represent a hugely diverse and heterogeneous group of migrants who have differing values and belief systems in relation to health care. A more detailed study is necessary in order to fully understand their health seeking behaviour in a UK context.

Originality/value

Latin Americans represent a “new migrant” population in the UK and are considerably under‐researched compared to more established migrant communities. At the same time they are an unrecognised group and are therefore excluded from many policy debates. This paper seeks to address this lack of knowledge.
Macro‐social marketing and social engineering: a systems approach
Authors: Kennedy Ann‐Marie , Parsons Andrew
Published: February 2012

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to show how macro‐social marketing and social engineering can be integrated and to illustrate their use by governments as part of a positive social engineering intervention with examples from the Canadian anti‐smoking campaign.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a conceptual paper that uses the case of the Canadian anti‐smoking campaign to show that macro‐social marketing, as part of a wider systems approach, is a positive social engineering intervention.

Findings

The use of macro‐social marketing by governments is most effective when it is coupled with other interventions such as regulations, legislation, taxation, community mobilization, research, funding and education. When a government takes a systems approach to societal change, such as with the Canadian anti‐smoking campaign, this is positive use of social engineering.

Research limitations/implications

The social marketer can understand their role within the system and appreciate that they are potentially part of precipitating circumstances that make society susceptible to change. Social marketers further have a role in creating societal motivation to change, as well as promoting social flexibility, creating desirable images of change, attitudinal change and developing individual's skills, which contribute to macro‐level change.

Practical implications

Social marketers need to understand the structural and environmental factors contributing to the problem behavior and focus on the implementers and controllers of society‐wide strategic interventions.

Social implications

Eliminating all factors which enable problem behaviors creates an environmental context where it is easy for consumers to change behavior and maintain that change.

Originality/value

The value of this paper is in extending the literature on macro‐social marketing by governments and identifying the broader strategy they may be undertaking using positive social engineering. It is also in showing how marketers may use this information.
Influencing positive financial behaviors: the social marketing solution
Authors: Lee Nancy R. , Miller Margaret
Published: February 2012

Purpose

Influencing positive financial behaviors is the natural next frontier for social marketers to “get serious about”, as there are clear behaviors that, once adopted by target populations, will improve the quality of life for individuals as well as society. The purpose of this paper is to describe a study conducted on behalf of the Consultive Group to Assist the Poor (CGAP), an independent policy and research center dedicated to advancing financial access for the world's poor.

Design/methodology/approach

The seven best practices presented in this paper are based on original research undertaken in 2009‐2010 which examined more than 100 cases around the world where a social marketing approach was used to influence a financial behavior.

Findings

Relevant behaviors identified, including those related to establishing a bank account, increasing savings, using credit wisely, avoiding over indebtedness, applying for micro finance loans, adopting new technologies, reducing chances of fraud, choosing the right insurance, reporting abuse, and shopping around and comparing offers. Potential target audiences were broad, ranging from sex workers in India, to farmers in “self‐help” groups in Kenya, to girls aged 10‐18 in Mongolia, to the homeless in San Francisco, to households on tea estates in India.

Originality/value

The paper describes seven best practices essential for success when applying social marketing principles and techniques to influence desired financial behaviors. For each practice, case examples are then presented, ones that demonstrate the successful application of the highlighted best practice to influence a specific financial behavior. In total, ten cases have been chosen to provide a range of countries, behaviors, target audiences, and strategies.
Diversity assessment of benthic macroinvertebrate communities in Banco National Park (Banco Stream, Côte d'Ivoire)
Authors: Camara Idrissa Adama , Diomande Dramane , Bony Yves Kotchi , Ouattara Allassane , Franquet Evelyne , Gourene Germain
Published: February 2012

In the present study, a first inventory of benthic macroinvertebrates in the Banco Stream, Côte d'Ivoire, and the correlations between environmental variables and taxonomic richness were analysed. Seven stations were sampled monthly over a 1‐year period, using a hand net (10 × 10 cm, 250 μm mesh, 50 cm length). One hundred and thirty‐two macroinvertebrate taxa were recorded. These taxa were distributed among 74 families and 15 orders belonging to Insecta (118 taxa; 89% of total richness), Oligochaeta (seven taxa), Crustacea (five taxa) and Mollusca (two taxa). Kruskal–Wallis test revealed significant difference (at least P < 0.05) in macroinvertebrate richness between upstream stations (S1 and S2) and stations S4, S5 and S6. Chironominae and Tanypodinae (Insecta) were the two very frequent taxa in all the stations. Lumbriculidae (Oligochaeta), Desmocaris trispinosa (Crustacea) and Eurymetra sp. (Insecta) were frequently found in the samples. Hierarchical cluster analysis revealed three groups of sampling stations according to taxonomic similarity. Taxonomic richness was significantly and negatively correlated with conductivity, while it was significantly and positively correlated with substrate types (woody debris and gravel). Due to the fact that Banco stream is the locality type of an endemic shrimp species (Macrobrachium thysi), this basin is of high conservation priority.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal soil infectivity and spores distribution across plantations of tropical, subtropical and exotic tree species: a case study from the forest reserve of Bandia, Senegal
Authors: Sene Godar , Thiao Mansour , Manga Anicet , Kane Aboubacry , Samba‐Mbaye Ramatoulaye , Mbaye Mame Samba , Khasa Damase , Sylla Samba Ndao
Published: February 2012

Several fast‐growing and multipurpose trees such as exotic and valuable native species have been widely used in West Africa to reverse the tendency of massive degradation of plant cover and restore soil productivity. Although benefic effects have been reported on soil stabilization, a lack of information about their impact on soil symbiotic microorganisms still remains. This investigation has been carried out in field trees of 28 years old in a forest reserve at Bandia. To determine the mycorrhizal inoculum potential (MIP) of soils, a mycorrhizal bioassay was conducted using seedlings of Zea mays L. Spores concentration, arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi morphotypes and mycorrhizal colonization of field plants were examined. Results showed that fungal communities were dominated in all samples by the genus Glomus. Nevertheless, the others genera Gigaspora and Scutellospora occurred preferentially out of the plantations. The number and richness of spores as well as the MIP of soils were decreased in the tree plantations. Accordingly, the amount of annual herbaceous plants kept out of the tree plantations was much greater than those under the tree plantations. The colonization was higher in field root systems of herb plants in comparison with that of the tree plants. Comparisons allowed us to conclude that vegetation type modifies the AM fungal communities, and the results suggest further adoption of management practices that could improve or sustain the development of herbaceous layers and thus promote the AM fungal communities.
Ecological and human impacts on stand density and distribution of tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) in Senegal
Authors: Bourou Sali , Bowe Colm , Diouf Macoumba , Van Damme Patrick
Published: February 2012

Indigenous fruit tree species such as tamarind (Tamarindus indica L.) in African sub‐Saharan traditionally act to build resilience into the farming system in terms of food security, income generation and ecosystem stability. Therefore, increasing our knowledge on their ecology and distribution is a priority. Tamarind is mainly grown for the fruits but is also a valuable timber species. The fruit pulp has a high content of vitamin B and is eaten fresh or made into jam, chutney, juice or sweets. Flowers, leaves and seeds are also edible and used in a variety of dishes. The main objective of this study is to evaluate actual density of tamarind in Senegal and the climate change effects on its distribution for better conservation strategies. Tamarind's distribution and density around villages were recorded and modelled in different agro‐ecological zones in Senegal using transect method and under current and future climates. Distribution under two future climate scenarios were modelled using four climate models and three time slices (2020, 2050 and 2080). Results show a decreasing gradient in tree density (from 7 to 1 trees km−2) from the Sudano agro‐ecological zone (in the south) to the Sahel (in the north). Future climate predictions show that although tamarind distribution will increase in the north‐west and south of the country in 2020; by 2050, the area identified as suitable for its growth will be greatly reduced. Areas in the north‐west basin appear to be an important refugia for the species under future climate conditions. However, density around villages in this area was found to be relatively low indicating that this could lead to problems of poor connectivity and inbreeding depression. This region should therefore be highlighted as important conservative management and protection strategies of tamarind in this region.
Early Cleaved Bovine Embryos Show Reduced Incidence of Chromosomal Aberrations and Higher Developmental Potential on Day 4.5 Post‐Insemination
Authors: Pers‐Kamczyc E , Pawlak P , Rubes J , Lechniak D
Published: February 2012

Contents

The present study aimed to investigate whether the timing of the first zygotic cleavage (FZC) influences the speed of embryo development expressed by the total cell count and the rate of chromosomally aberrant embryos. Bovine embryos were produced in vitro and divided into two categories according to the timing of FZC: early cleavers (at 30 hpi; EC) and non‐early cleavers (at 48 hpi; NEC). On day 4.5 pi, embryos were grouped into three classes depending on the number of blastomeres: delayed (<8 BL), normal (8–16 BL) and advanced (>16 BL). We applied fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) with probes for bovine chromosomes 6 and X. The only form of chromosomal imbalance observed was mixoploidy [(2n/3n; 2n/4n); 19.9%, 54/271]. Early cleavers were less often chromosomally unbalanced (13.9%, 20/144) than their NEC counterparts (26.7%, 34/127). Among embryos developing at a normal speed, the NEC embryos were more often abnormal (NEC 20/80; EC 10/79; p < 0.05). The advanced embryos were not observed among the NEC category, whereas such embryos from EC category displayed no chromosomal aberrations. The majority of embryos arrested at the 8 BL stage were of NEC category and were carriers of chromosomally abnormal blastomeres. With regard to embryonic sex, we demonstrated that although males dominate among bovine embryos developing in vitro, the incidence of mixoploidy was equal for both sexes. It can be suggested that a good‐quality bovine embryo is usually an early cleaver that develops at higher speed and contains less aberrant cells. The present study also confirmed the usefulness of the FZC as a marker of embryo quality by demonstrating a significantly lower incidence of aberrations in early embryos.
The skin‐blanching assay
Authors: Smit P. , Neumann H.A.M. , Thio H.B.
Published: February 2012

The skin‐blanching assay is used for the determination and bioequivalence of dermatologic glucocorticoids (GCs). The exact mechanism of the production of blanching is not fully understood, but it is considered that local vasoconstriction of the skin microvasculature and the consequent blood‐flow reduction cause this phenomenon. Several factors influence skin blanching, including drug concentration, duration of application, nature of vehicle, occlusion, posture and location. The intensity of vasoconstriction can be measured in several ways: visual or quantitative methods, such as reflectance spectroscopy, thermography, laser Doppler velocimetry and chromametry. In literature, contradicting results in the correlation of the skin‐blanching assay with different tests to determine GC sensitivity have been reported, limiting its clinical usefulness.
Plasma desmoplakin I biomarker of vascular recurrence after ischemic stroke
Authors: López‐Farré Antonio J. , Zamorano‐León José J. , Segura Antonio , Mateos‐Cáceres Petra J. , Modrego Javier , Rodríguez‐Sierra Pablo , Calatrava Laura , Tamargo Juan , Macaya Carlos
Published: February 2012

J. Neurochem.(2012)121, 314–325.

Stroke patients have a high risk of vascular recurrence. Biomarkers related to vascular recurrence, however, remain to be identified. The aim of the study was to identify, through proteomic analysis, plasma biomarkers associated with vascular recurrence within one year after the first ischemic stroke. This is a substudy (n = 134) of a large prospective multicenter study of post‐stroke patients with an ischemic stroke. Plasma samples were obtained at inclusion. Among the identified proteins, only plasma levels of desmoplakin I were associated with protection against a new vascular event (Odds ratio: 0.64; 95% CI: 0.46–0.89;p = 0.009) after adjustment for hypercholesterolemia, statins and previous atherothrombotic stroke subtype. A greater number of patients without vascular recurrence had been treated with statins within three months of the recent ischemic stroke. Only patients who had been taking statins for 3 months after the ischemic stroke and did not suffer vascular recurrence over a follow‐up year, have higher levels of desmoplakin I at the time of inclusion (Odds ratio 0.49; 95% CI: 0.28–0.86;p = 0.013). Increased desmoplakin I levels, determined within 1–3 months of the first ischemic stroke, could be a biomarker for statin responsiveness against a new vascular event in post‐ischemic stroke patients taking statins early (1–3 months) after the ischemic stroke.
Drosophila as a model to study the genetic mechanisms of obesity‐associated heart dysfunction
Authors: Diop Soda Balla , Bodmer Rolf
Published: February 2012

Introduction

High fat diet feeding of Drosophila causes excess fat accumulation

Excess fat accumulation is associated with heart dysfunction in Drosophila

New players in the fat–heart relationship

Concluding remarks

Obesity and cardiovascular disease are among the world's leading causes of death, especially in Western countries where consumption of high caloric food is commonly accompanied by low physical activity. This lifestyle often leads to energy imbalance, obesity, diabetes and their associated metabolic disorders, including cardiovascular diseases. It has become increasingly recognized that obesity and cardiovascular disease are metabolically linked, and a better understanding of this relationship requires that we uncover the fundamental genetic mechanisms controlling obesity‐related heart dysfunction, a goal that has been difficult to achieve in higher organisms with intricate metabolic complexity. However, the high degree of evolutionary conservation of genes and signalling pathways allows researchers to use lower animal models such as Drosophila, which is the simplest genetic model with a heart, to uncover the mechanistic basis of obesity‐related heart disease and its likely relevance to humans. Here, we discuss recent advances made by using the power of the Drosophila as a powerful model to investigate the genetic pathways by which a high fat diet may lead to heart dysfunction.
Associations between oral health‐related quality of life and emotional statuses in children and preadolescents
Authors: Barbosa TS , Castelo PM , Leme MS , Gavião MBD
Published: February 2012

Oral Diseases (2012) 18, 639–647

Objectives:  To evaluate the associations between oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) and emotional statuses in children and preadolescents.

Methods:  One hundred and forty‐five Brazilian students (8–14 years) were clinically examined for caries, gingivitis, fluorosis, malocclusions, and temporomandibular disorders (TMD). OHRQoL was measured using two global ratings of oral health (OH) and overall well‐being (OWB). The Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale (R‐CMAS) and Children’s Depression Inventory (CDI) were used to assess anxiety and depression, respectively. Saliva was collected 30 min after waking and at night to determine the diurnal decline in salivary cortisol (DDSC). The results were analyzed using non‐paired t test/one‐way ANOVA, Pearson’s correlation test, and multiple linear regression analyses.

Results:  11–14‐year‐old participants had higher CDI scores (P < 0.01) and DDSC concentrations (P < 0.001). Participants with fewer caries and without gingivitis had higher DDSC concentrations (P < 0.05). TMD patients had higher DDSC concentrations and OWB ratings (P < 0.001). Girls had higher Revised Children’s Manifest Anxiety Scale (RCMAS) scores (P < 0.01). There was positive correlation between RCMAS and CDI scores and OWB ratings (P < 0.05). The OH model retained age (β =0.312; P < 0.001) and the OWB model retained TMD (β = 0.271; P < 0.001) and CDI scores (β=0.175; P < 0.05).

Conclusions:  Children and preadolescents with poor emotional well‐being are more sensitive to the impacts of OH and its effects on OWB.
Short‐term training for explosive strength causes neural and mechanical adaptations
Authors: Tillin Neale A. , Pain Matthew T. G. , Folland Jonathan P.
Published: February 2012

This study investigated the neural and peripheral adaptations to short‐term training for explosive force production. Ten men trained the knee extensors with unilateral explosive isometric contractions (1 s ‘fast and hard’) for 4 weeks. Before and after training, force was recorded at 50‐ms intervals from force onset (F50, F100 and F150) during both voluntary and involuntary (supramaximal evoked octet; eight pulses at 300 Hz) explosive isometric contractions. Neural drive during the explosive voluntary contractions was measured with the ratio of voluntary/octet force, and average EMG normalized to the peak‐to‐peak M‐wave of the three superficial quadriceps. Maximal voluntary force (MVF) was also measured, and ultrasonic images of the vastus lateralis were recorded during ramped contractions to assess muscle–tendon unit stiffness between 50 and 90% MVF. There was an increase in voluntary F50 (+54%), F100 (+15%) and F150 (+14%) and in octet F50 (+7%) and F100 (+10%). Voluntary F100 and F150, and octet F50 and F100 increased proportionally with MVF (+11%). However, the increase in voluntary F50 was +37% even after normalization to MVF, and coincided with a 42% increase in both voluntary/octet force and agonist‐normalized EMG over the first 50 ms. Muscle–tendon unit stiffness between 50 and 90% MVF also increased. In conclusion, enhanced agonist neural drive and MVF accounted for improved explosive voluntary force production in the early and late phases of the contraction, respectively. The increases in explosive octet force and muscle–tendon unit stiffness provide novel evidence of peripheral adaptations within merely 4 weeks of training for explosive force production.
Explosive neuromuscular performance of males versus females
Authors: Hannah Ricci , Minshull Claire , Buckthorpe Matthew W. , Folland Jonathan P.
Published: February 2012

The purpose of the study was to investigate sex‐related differences in explosive muscular force production, as measured by electromechanical delay (EMD) and rate of force development (RFD), and to examine the physiological mechanisms responsible for any differences. The neuromuscular performance of untrained males (n= 20) and females (n= 20) was assessed during a series of isometric knee extension contractions; explosive and maximal voluntary efforts, as well as supramaximal evoked twitches and octets (eight pulses at 300 Hz). Evoked and voluntary EMD were determined from twitch and explosive contractions. The RFD was recorded over consecutive 50 ms time windows from force onset during evoked and explosive contractions, and normalized to maximal strength. Neuromuscular activity during explosive voluntary contractions was measured with EMG of the superficial knee extensors normalized to maximal M‐wave. Muscle size (thickness) and muscle–tendon unit (MTU) stiffness were assessed using ultrasonic images of the vastus lateralis at rest and during ramped contractions. Males and females had similar evoked and voluntary EMD. Males were 33% stronger (P < 0.001) and their absolute RFD was 26–56% greater (all time points P < 0.05) compared with females. Muscle size (P < 0.001) and absolute MTU stiffness were also greater for males (P < 0.05). However, normalized RFD was similar for both sexes during the first 150 ms of the explosive voluntary contractions (P > 0.05). This was consistent with the similar normalized twitch and octet RFD, MTU stiffness and agonist EMG (all P > 0.05). When differences in maximal strength were accounted for, the evoked capacity of the knee extensors for explosive force production and the ability to utilize that capacity during explosive voluntary contractions was similar for males and females.
AMP‐activated protein kinase α2 is an essential signal in the regulation of insulin‐stimulated fatty acid uptake in control‐fed and high‐fat‐fed mice
Authors: Abbott Marcia J. , Constantinescu Silvana , Turcotte Lorraine P.
Published: February 2012

Owing to its critical role in the regulation of skeletal muscle metabolism, AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) remains a central focus of research for the treatment of insulin resistance. The purpose of the present study was to determine the role of AMPKα2 activity in the regulation of glucose uptake and fatty acid (FA) metabolism in insulin‐resistant skeletal muscle. Male C57BL/6 mice were divided into groups fed a control diet (CD) or high‐fat (60%) diet (HFD) for 6 weeks and were either wild‐type (WT) or possessed an AMPKα2 dominant negative transgene (DN). After 6 weeks, hindlimbs of CD (n= 10) and HFD mice (n= 10) were perfused with or without 450 μU ml−1 insulin. Muscles of CD (n= 8) and HFD mice (n= 8) were used for measurement of basal protein expression. In CD mice, low AMPKα2 activity did not affect basal FA uptake (FAU), but it increased basal FA oxidation (FAO) by 28% and prevented the typical insulin‐mediated increase in FAU and decrease in FAO. In HFD‐fed mice, low AMPKα2 activity increased basal FAU by 147% (P < 0.05). In both WT and DN mice, HFD abolished the typical insulin‐mediated increase in FAU and decrease in FAO. In HFD‐fed mice, low AMPKα2 activity increased SIRT1 activity and decreased Protein Tyrosine Phosphatase 1B (PTP1B) expression and AktThr308 phosphorylation (P < 0.05). Adipose tissue protein expression of interleukin‐6 and tumour necrosis factor α was increased by HFD in WT mice but not in DN mice (P < 0.05). Skeletal muscle interleukin‐15 expression was decreased in both feeding conditions in the DN mice (P < 0.05). The data from this study suggest that in insulin‐resistant conditions low AMPKα2 activity impacts the regulation of skeletal muscle FA metabolism via changes in SIRT1 activity, PTP1B expression and Akt phosphorylation and the expression of adipose tissue pro‐inflammatory markers.
Complete Genome Sequence of Virulence-Enhancing Siphophage VHS1 from Vibrio harveyi
Authors: Khemayan Krit , Prachumwat Anuphap , Sonthayanon Burachai , Intaraprasong Aungkul , Sriurairatana Siriporn , Flegel Timothy W.
Published: February 2012

Vibrio harveyi
siphophage 1 (VHS1) is a tailed phage with an icosahedral head of approximately 66 nm in diameter and an unornamented, flexible tail of approximately 153 nm in length. When
Vibrio harveyi
1114GL is lysogenized with VHS1, its virulence for the black tiger shrimp (
Penaeus monodon
) increases by more than 100 times, and this coincides with production of a toxin(s) associated with shrimp hemocyte agglutination. Curiously, the lysogen does not show increased virulence for the whiteleg shrimp (
Penaeus
[
Litopenaeus
]
vannamei
). Here we present and annotate the complete, circular genome of VHS1 (81,509 kbp; GenBank accession number
JF713456
). By software analysis, the genome contains 125 putative open reading frames (ORFs), all of which appear to be located on the same DNA strand, similar to the case for many other bacteriophages. Most of the putative ORFs show no significant homology to known sequences in GenBank. Notable exceptions are ORFs for a putative DNA polymerase and putative phage structural proteins, including a portal protein, a phage tail tape measure protein, and a phage head protein. The last protein was identified as a component of the species-specific toxin mixture described above as being associated with agglutination of hemocytes from
P. monodon
.
Abundance and Genetic Diversity of Aerobic Anoxygenic Phototrophic Bacteria of Coastal Regions of the Pacific Ocean
Authors: Ritchie Anna E. , Johnson Zackary I.
Published: February 2012

Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic (AAP) bacteria are photoheterotrophic microbes that are found in a broad range of aquatic environments. Although potentially significant to the microbial ecology and biogeochemistry of marine ecosystems, their abundance and genetic diversity and the environmental variables that regulate these properties are poorly understood. Using samples along nearshore/offshore transects from five disparate islands in the Pacific Ocean (Oahu, Molokai, Futuna, Aniwa, and Lord Howe) and off California, we show that AAP bacteria, as quantified by thepufMgene biomarker, are most abundant near shore and in areas with high chlorophyll orSynechococcusabundance. These AAP bacterial populations are genetically diverse, with most members belonging to the alpha- or gammaproteobacterial groups and with subclades that are associated with specific environmental variables. The genetic diversity of AAP bacteria is structured along the nearshore/offshore transects in relation to environmental variables, and unculturedpufMgene libraries suggest that nearshore communities are distinct from those offshore. AAP bacterial communities are also genetically distinct between islands, such that the stations that are most distantly separated are the most genetically distinct. Together, these results demonstrate that environmental variables regulate both the abundance and diversity of AAP bacteria but that endemism may also be a contributing factor in structuring these communities.
Distinct Ectomycorrhizospheres Share Similar Bacterial Communities as Revealed by Pyrosequencing-Based Analysis of 16S rRNA Genes
Authors: Uroz S. , Oger P. , Morin E. , Frey-Klett P.
Published: February 2012

Analysis of the 16S rRNA gene sequences generated from
Xerocomus pruinatus
and
Scleroderma citrinum
ectomycorrhizospheres revealed that similar bacterial communities inhabited the two ectomycorrhizospheres in terms of phyla and genera, with an enrichment of the
Burkholderia
genus. Compared to the bulk soil habitat, ectomycorrhizospheres hosted significantly more
Alpha
-,
Beta
-, and
Gammaproteobacteria
.
Elevated Carbon Dioxide Alters the Structure of Soil Microbial Communities
Authors: Deng Ye , He Zhili , Xu Meiying , Qin Yujia , Van Nostrand Joy D. , Wu Liyou , Roe Bruce A. , Wiley Graham , Hobbie Sarah E. , Reich Peter B. , Zhou Jizhong
Published: February 2012

Pyrosequencing analysis of 16S rRNA genes was used to examine impacts of elevated CO
2
(eCO
2
) on soil microbial communities from 12 replicates each from ambient CO
2
(aCO
2
) and eCO
2
settings. The results suggest that the soil microbial community composition and structure significantly altered under conditions of eCO
2
, which was closely associated with soil and plant properties.
Dynamics of the Linuron HydrolaselibAGene Pool Size in Response to Linuron Application and Environmental Perturbations in Agricultural Soil and On-Farm Biopurification Systems
Authors: Bers Karolien , Sniegowski Kristel , De Mot René , Springael Dirk
Published: February 2012

libA, a gene encoding a novel type of linuron hydrolase, was recently identified in the linuron-mineralizingVariovoraxsp. strain SRS16. In order to assess the contribution oflibAto linuron degradation in environmental settings,libAabundance was monitored in response to the application of linuron and to environmental perturbations in agricultural soil microcosms and microcosms simulating the matrix of on-farm biopurification systems.libAnumbers were measured by real-time PCR and linked to reported data ofVariovoraxcommunity composition and linuron mineralization capacity. In the soil microcosms and one biopurification system setup,libAnumbers responded to the application of linuron and environmental changes in congruency with the modulation of linuron mineralization capacity and the occurrence of a particularVariovoraxphylotype (phylotype A). However, in another biopurification system setup, no such correlations were found. Our data suggest that in the simulated environmental settings, the occurrence oflibAcan be linked to the linuron mineralization capacity and thatlibAis primarily hosted byVariovoraxphylotype A strains. However, the results also suggest that, apart fromlibA, other, as-yet-unknown isofunctional genes play an important role in linuron mineralization in the environment.
Acquired Tolerance to Oxidative Stress in Bifidobacterium longum 105-A via Expression of a Catalase Gene
Authors: He Jianlong , Sakaguchi Kouta , Suzuki Tohru
Published: February 2012

For improvement of tolerance to oxidative stress in
Bifidobacterium longum
105-A, we introduced the
Bacillus subtilis
catalase gene (
katE
) into it. The transformant showed catalase activity (39 U/mg crude protein) in the intracellular fraction, which increased survival by ∼100-fold after a 1-h exposure to 4.4 mM H
2
O
2
, decreased
de novo
H
2
O
2
accumulation, and increased survival in aerated cultures by 10
5
-fold at 24 h. The protection level was better than that conferred by exogenously added catalase.
Differential Biofilm Formation and Chemical Disinfection Resistance of Sessile Cells of Listeria monocytogenes Strains under Monospecies and Dual-Species (with Salmonella enterica) Conditions
Authors: Kostaki Maria , Chorianopoulos Nikos , Braxou Elli , Nychas George-John , Giaouris Efstathios
Published: February 2012

This study aimed to investigate the possible influence of bacterial intra- and interspecies interactions on the ability of
Listeria monocytogenes
and
Salmonella enterica
to develop mixed-culture biofilms on an abiotic substratum, as well as on the subsequent resistance of sessile cells to chemical disinfection. Initially, three strains from each species were selected and left to attach and form biofilms on stainless steel (SS) coupons incubated at 15°C for 144 h, in periodically renewable tryptone soy broth (TSB), under either monoculture or mixed-culture (mono-/dual-species) conditions. Following biofilm formation, mixed-culture sessile communities were subjected to 6-min disinfection treatments with (i) benzalkonium chloride (50 ppm), (ii) sodium hypochlorite (10 ppm), (iii) peracetic acid (10 ppm), and (iv) a mixture of hydrogen peroxide (5 ppm) and peracetic acid (5 ppm). Results revealed that both species reached similar biofilm counts (ca. 10
5
CFU cm
−2
) and that, in general, interspecies interactions did not have any significant effect either on the biofilm-forming ability (as this was assessed by agar plating enumeration of the mechanically detached biofilm bacteria) or on the antimicrobial resistance of each individual species. Interestingly, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE) analysis clearly showed that the three
L. monocytogenes
strains did not contribute at the same level either to the formation of mixed-culture sessile communities (mono-/dual species) or to their antimicrobial recalcitrance. Additionally, the simultaneous existence inside the biofilm structure of
S. enterica
cells seemed to influence the occurrence and resistance pattern of
L. monocytogenes
strains. In sum, this study highlights the impact of microbial interactions taking place inside a mixed-culture sessile community on both its population dynamics and disinfection resistance.
Diversity of Symbiotic Organs and Bacterial Endosymbionts of Lygaeoid Bugs of the Families Blissidae and Lygaeidae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Lygaeoidea)
Authors: Kuechler Stefan Martin , Renz Patricia , Dettner Konrad , Kehl Siegfried
Published: February 2012

Here we present comparative data on the localization and identity of intracellular symbionts among the superfamily Lygaeoidea (Insecta: Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Pentatomomorpha). Five different lygaeoid species from the families Blissidae and Lygaeidae (sensu stricto; including the subfamilies Lygaeinae and Orsillinae) were analyzed. Fluorescence
in situ
hybridization (FISH) revealed that all the bugs studied possess paired bacteriomes that are differently shaped in the abdomen and harbor specific endosymbionts therein. The endosymbionts were also detected in female gonads and at the anterior poles of developing eggs, indicating vertical transmission of the endosymbionts via ovarial passage, in contrast to the posthatch symbiont transmission commonly found among pentatomoid bugs (Pentatomomorpha: Pentatomoidea). Phylogenetic analysis based on 16S rRNA and
groEL
genes showed that the endosymbionts of
Ischnodemus sabuleti
,
Arocatus longiceps
,
Belonochilus numenius
,
Orsillus depressus
, and
Ortholomus punctipennis
constitute at least four distinct clades in the
Gammaproteobacteria
. The endosymbiont phylogeny did not agree with the host phylogeny based on the mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (
COI
) gene, but there was a local cospeciating pattern within the subfamily Orsillinae. Meanwhile, the endosymbiont of
Belonochilus numenius
(Lygaeidae: Orsillinae), although harbored in paired bacteriomes as in other lygaeoid bugs of the related genera
Nysius
,
Ortholomus
, and
Orsillus
, was phylogenetically close to “
Candidatus
Rohrkolberia cinguli,” the endosymbiont of
Chilacis typhae
(Lygaeoidea: Artheneidae), suggesting an endosymbiont replacement in this lineage. The diverse endosymbionts and the differently shaped bacteriomes may reflect independent evolutionary origins of the endosymbiotic systems among lygaeoid bugs.
Pathogenicity and Infection Cycle of Vibrio owensii in Larviculture of the Ornate Spiny Lobster (Panulirus ornatus)
Authors: Goulden Evan F. , Hall Michael R. , Bourne David G. , Pereg Lily L. , Høj Lone
Published: February 2012

The type strain of
Vibrio owensii
(DY05) was isolated during an epizootic of aquaculture-reared larvae (phyllosomas) of the ornate spiny lobster (
Panulirus ornatus
).
V. owensii
DY05 was formally demonstrated to be the etiological agent of a disease causing rapid and reproducible larval mortality with pathologies similar to those seen during disease epizootics. Vectored challenge via the aquaculture live feed organism
Artemia
(brine shrimp) caused consistent cumulative mortality rates of 84 to 89% after 72 h, in contrast to variable mortality rates seen after immersion challenge. Histopathological examination of vector-challenged phyllosomas revealed bacterial proliferation in the midgut gland (hepatopancreas) concomitant with epithelial cell necrosis. A fluorescent-protein-labeled
V. owensii
DY05 transconjugant showed dispersal of single cells in the foregut and hepatopancreas 6 h postexposure, leading to colonization of the entire hepatopancreas within 18 h and eventually systemic infection.
V. owensii
DY05 is a marine enteropathogen highly virulent to
P. ornatus
phyllosoma that uses vector-mediated transmission and release from host association to a planktonic existence to perpetuate transfer. This understanding of the infection process will improve targeted biocontrol strategies and enhance the prospects of commercially viable larviculture for this valuable spiny lobster species.