bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Repair and Restoration of the Optical Properties of Sandblasted Glasses By Silica‐Based Sol‐Gel Coatings
Authors: Marouani Abdelhak , Bouaouadja Nourredine , Castro Yolanda , Durán Alicia
Published: August 2014

The damage provoked by sand storms in Sahara desert to windscreen of vehicles and solar mirrors is a problem. Different solutions have been proposed, one of them is the application of polymeric coatings, but they rapidly degrade. In this work, we have deposited silica‐based sol‐gel coatings including silica nanoparticles onto sandblasted glasses. The glasses were eroded by sandblasting varying the projected sand mass and the incidence angle to obtain different surface states. The eroded samples were coated by dipping with a silica layer to correct the defects induced by sandblasting and restore the optical transmission. The damage increases with increasing projected mass and the impact angle. The optical transmission decreases with increasing damage. In extreme conditions, optical transmission falls from 91.5% to 68.6%. The deposition of silica‐based layers containing SiO2 colloidal nanoparticles promotes the repairing of sandblasting defects. A strong decrease of roughness to values similar to those of as‐received glass is related with the increasing of the optical transmission up to levels permitting of windscreens and solar mirrors. Transmittance measurements showed a remarkable improvement in all cases, whatever the projected sand mass or the impact angle. For highly degraded samples, the transmission increases from 68.6% to 91.4%, an improvement of near 23%.
The interrelationship between temporal and environmental orientation and pro‐environmental consumer behaviour
Authors: Polonsky Michael Jay , Vocino Andrea , Grimmer Martin , Miles Morgan P.
Published: August 2014

It is proposed that consumers fail to make environmentally conscious choices because they do not consider the long‐term impact of their actions. This research examines the role of consumers' temporal orientation (past and future) in regard to their environmental orientation and pro‐environmental consumer behaviour (PECB), using a representative sample of 2566 Australian respondents. The results identify that both future and past orientations are related to environmental orientation, with future orientation leading to increased levels of PECB and past orientation leading to reduced levels of PECB. Further, environmental orientation mediates the relationship between temporal orientation and PECB, suppressing the negative impact of high levels of past orientation.
Application of common wheat bran for the industrial production of high‐fibre pasta
Authors: Sobota Aldona , Rzedzicki Zbigniew , Zarzycki Piotr , Kuzawińska Ewelina
Published: August 2014

The study was conducted on the effect of the addition of common wheat bran on the chemical composition, physical properties, cooking quality and sensory traits of durum wheat pasta. The pasta was produced on an industrial scale, applying an addition of common wheat bran at doses ranging from 20 to 40%. The products obtained were compared to the pasta from whole‐grain durum wheat flour, produced under identical conditions and with commercially available whole‐grain durum wheat pasta. The increase in the content of wheat bran in the pasta caused a significant increase (Duncan test, P ≤ 0.05) of the content of protein, lipids, ash and total dietary fibre (TDF). The application of 25–30% addition of common wheat bran allowed obtaining the products which are as rich in dietary fibre as the pasta prepared at the same technological parameters from whole‐grain durum flour. The pasta containing up to 30% of bran was characterised with lower losses of dry mass and higher resistance to overcooking, in comparison with the pasta made of whole‐grain durum. Simultaneously, the products had very good sensory quality.
Lactate dehydrogenase and caspase activity in nasopharyngeal secretions are predictors of bronchiolitis severity
Authors: Mehta Reena , Scheffler Margaret , Tapia Lorena , Aideyan Letisha , Patel Kirtida D. , Jewell Alan M. , Avadhanula Vasanthi , Mei Minghua , Garofalo Roberto P. , Piedra Pedro A.
Published: August 2014

Background

Bronchiolitis is the leading cause of hospitalization in infants. Biomarkers of disease severity might help in clinical management.

Objective

To determine the clinical predictiveness of NW‐LDH, NW‐caspase 3/7, and NW‐LDH/NW‐caspase 3/7 ratio in bronchiolitis.

Methods

Previously healthy children less than 24 months of age with bronchiolitis were recruited from the Texas Children's emergency room and intensive care unit from October 2010 to April 2011. Demographic, clinical information, and NW samples were obtained at enrollment. NW samples were analyzed for respiratory viruses, caspase 3/7, and LDH.

Results

A viral pathogen was detected in 91·6% of 131 children, with the most common being respiratory syncytial virus and human rhinovirus. A single infection was found in 61·8% of subjects and co‐infection in 29·8%. Children admitted to ICU had significantly higher NW‐LDH than children sent home from the ER or admitted to the general floor (P = 0·02). Children infected with RSV had the highest NW‐LDH concentration (P = 0·03) compared with other viral infections. NW‐LDH and NW‐caspase were significantly correlated (r = 0·77, P < 0·0001). The univariate models showed NW‐LDH and NW‐LDH/NW‐ caspase 3/7 ratio were directly associated with hospitalization. Mutivariate regression analyses suggested a complex interaction between the biomarkers, demographics, and disposition.

Conclusions

NW‐LDH, NW‐caspase 3/7 and NW‐LDH/NW‐caspase 3/7 ratio and their interactions with demographic factors are predictive of bronchiolitis severity and can help distinguish children requiring ICU‐level care from those admitted to the general floor, or discharged home from the emergency center.
Modeling Long‐Term Trends of Chlorinated Ethene Contamination at a Public Supply Well
Authors: Chapelle Francis H. , Kauffman Leon J. , Widdowson Mark A.
Published: August 2014

A mass‐balance solute‐transport modeling approach was used to investigate the effects of dense nonaqueous phase liquid (DNAPL) volume, composition, and generation of daughter products on simulated and measured long‐term trends of chlorinated ethene (CE) concentrations at a public supply well. The model was built by telescoping a calibrated regional three‐dimensional MODFLOW model to the capture zone of a public supply well that has a history of CE contamination. The local model was then used to simulate the interactions between naturally occurring organic carbon that acts as an electron donor, and dissolved oxygen (DO), CEs, ferric iron, and sulfate that act as electron acceptors using the Sequential Electron Acceptor Model in three dimensions (SEAM3D) code. The modeling results indicate that asymmetry between rapidly rising and more gradual falling concentration trends over time suggests a DNAPL rather than a dissolved source of CEs. Peak concentrations of CEs are proportional to the volume and composition of the DNAPL source. The persistence of contamination, which can vary from a few years to centuries, is proportional to DNAPL volume, but is unaffected by DNAPL composition. These results show that monitoring CE concentrations in raw water produced by impacted public supply wells over time can provide useful information concerning the nature of contaminant sources and the likely future persistence of contamination.
Evaluating the Impacts of Environmental Flow Alternatives on Reservoir and Recreational Operations Using System Dynamics Modeling
Authors: Morrison Ryan R. , Stone Mark C.
Published: August 2014

Providing environmental flows is increasingly a management obligation in many water resource systems. Evaluating the impacts of environmental flow alternatives on other water uses in a basin can be a challenge, especially when collaborating with stakeholders. We demonstrate the use of system dynamics (SD) modeling to assess the impacts of four environmental flow alternatives in the Rio Chama, New Mexico. The model was developed to examine impacts of each alternative on reservoir storage and releases, hydropower production and revenue, and whitewater boating access. We simulated each alternative within a stochastic framework in order to explicitly incorporate hydrologic uncertainty into the analyses. The environmental flow alternatives were developed at a collaborative workshop of geomorphology, hydrology, and ecology experts. Results from the model indicate that the proposed flow recommendations on the Rio Chama will generally decrease annual reservoir storage, increase median flows, and have minimal impacts on hydropower production and whitewater rafting on the system. The Rio Chama case study is a promising example of how SD modeling can be used in the early stages of environmental flow studies and why it is compatible with collaborative modeling.
Hydrological Responses to Climate and Land‐Use Changes along the North American East Coast: A 110‐Year Historical Reconstruction
Authors: Yang Qichun , Tian Hanqin , Friedrichs Marjorie A.M. , Liu Mingliang , Li Xia , Yang Jia
Published: August 2014

The North American east coast (NAEC) region experienced significant climate and land‐use changes in the past century. To explore how these changes have affected land water cycling, the Dynamic Land Ecosystem Model (DLEM 2.0) was used to investigate the spatial and temporal variability of runoff and river discharge during 1901‐2010 in the study area. Annual runoff over the NAEC was 420 ± 61 mm/yr (average ± standard deviation). Runoff increased in parts of the northern NAEC but decreased in some areas of the southern NAEC. Annual freshwater discharge from the study area was 378 ± 61 km3/yr (average ± standard deviation). Factorial simulation experiments suggested that climate change and variability explained 97.5% of the interannual variability of runoff and also resulted in the opposite changes in runoff in northern and southern regions of the NAEC. Land‐use change reduced runoff by 5‐22 mm/yr from 1931 to 2010, but the impacts were divergent over the Piedmont region and Coastal Plain areas of the southern NAEC. Land‐use change impacts were more significant at local and watershed spatial scales rather than at regional scales. Different responses of runoff to changing climate and land‐use should be noted in future water resource management. Hydrological impacts of afforestation and deforestation as well as urbanization should also be noted by land‐use policy makers.
Evaluating the Eco‐Geomorphological Condition of Restored Streams Using Visual Assessment and Macroinvertebrate Metrics
Authors: Doll Barbara A. , Jennings Gregory D. , Spooner Jean , Penrose David L. , Usset Joseph L.
Published: August 2014

The Stream Performance Assessment (SPA), a new rapid assessment method, was applied to 93 restored, 21 impaired, 29 reference, and 13 reference streams with some incision throughout North Carolina. Principal component analysis (PCA) indicated restored streams align more closely with reference streams rather than impaired streams. Further, PCA‐based factor analysis revealed restored streams were similar to reference streams in terms of morphologic condition, but exhibited a greater range of scores relative to aquatic habitat and bedform. Macroinvertebrate sampling and GIS watershed analyses were conducted on 84 restored streams. SPA and watershed data were compared to Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera (EPT) taxa to determine which factors indicate stream health. SPA and watershed factors were used in least squares, ridge, and principal component regression (PCR) to develop a prediction model for EPT taxa. All three methods produced reasonable predictions for EPT taxa. Cross‐validation indicated ridge regression resulted in the lowest prediction error. The ridge model was then used to predict EPT taxa numbers for 21 impaired and 25 reference streams in addition to the 84 restored streams. Statistical comparisons of the predicted scores indicated urban streams (>10% impervious watershed cover) have lower expected numbers of EPT taxa. Rural restored streams have macroinvertebrate metric scores similar to those predicted for rural reference streams.
Controls on Temperature in Salmonid‐Bearing Headwater Streams in Two Common Hydrogeologic Settings, Kenai Peninsula, Alaska
Authors: Callahan Michael K. , Rains Mark C. , Bellino Jason C. , Walker Coowe M. , Baird Steven J. , Whigham Dennis F. , King Ryan S.
Published: August 2014

Headwater streams are the most numerous in terms of both number and length in the conterminous United States and play important roles as spawning and rearing grounds for numerous species of anadromous fish. Stream temperature is a controlling variable for many physical, chemical, and biological processes and plays a critical role in the overall health and integrity of a stream. We investigated the controls on stream temperature in salmon‐bearing headwater streams in two common hydrogeologic settings on the Kenai Peninsula, Alaska: (1) drainage‐ways, which are low‐gradient streams that flow through broad valleys; and (2) discharge‐slopes, which are high gradient streams that flow through narrow valleys. We hypothesize local geomorphology strongly influences surface‐water and groundwater interactions, which control streamflow at the network scale and stream temperatures at the reach scale. The results of this study showed significant differences in stream temperatures between the two hydrogeologic settings. Observed stream temperatures were higher in drainage‐way sites than in discharge‐slope sites, and showed strong correlations as a continuous function with the calculated topographic metric flow‐weighted slope. Additionally, modeling results indicated the potential for groundwater discharge to moderate stream temperature is not equal between the two hydrogeologic settings, with groundwater having a greater moderating effect on stream temperature at the drainage‐way sites.
Estimating Current and Future Groundwater Resources of the Maldives
Authors: Bailey Ryan T. , Khalil Abedalrazq , Chatikavanij Vansa
Published: August 2014

The water resources of the atolls of the Republic of Maldives are under continual threat from climatic and anthropogenic stresses, including land surface pollution, increasing population, drought, and sea‐level rise (SLR). These threats are particularly acute for groundwater resources due to the small land surface area and low elevation of each island. In this study, the groundwater resources, in terms of freshwater lens thickness, total volume of fresh groundwater, and safe yield are estimated for the 52 most populous islands of the Maldives for current conditions and for the year 2030, with the latter accounting for projected SLR and associated shoreline recession. An algebraic model, designed in previous studies to estimate the lens thickness of atoll islands, is expanded in this study to also estimate volume of groundwater. Results indicate that average current lens thickness, groundwater volume, and per capita safe yield are approximately 4.6 m, 1,300 million liters, and 300 l/day, and that these values will decrease by approximately 10, 11, and 34%, respectively, by the year 2030. Based on results, it is demonstrated that groundwater, in terms of quantity, is a viable source of water for the islands of the Maldives both now and in coming decades, particularly for islands with large surface area and low population. Study results can provide water resource managers and government officials with valuable data for consideration in water security measures.
Evidence for multiple paternity in the school shark Galeorhinus galeus found in New Zealand waters
Authors: Hernández S. , Duffy C. , Francis M. P. , Ritchie P. A.
Published: August 2014

This study assessed the levels of relatedness of Galeorhinus galeus of progeny arrays using six microsatellite DNA markers. A parentage analysis from five families (mother and litter) from the North Island of New Zealand suggested the occurrence of genetic polyandry in G. galeus with two of the five litters showing multiple sires involved in the progeny arrays. This finding may be consistent with the reproductive characteristics of G. galeus, in which females can potentially store sperm for long periods of time after the mating season.
Differential growth in estuarine and freshwater habitats indicated by plasma IGF1 concentrations and otolith chemistry in Dolly Varden Salvelinus malma
Authors: Bond M. H. , Beckman B. R. , Rohrbach L. , Quinn T. P.
Published: August 2014

This study employed a combination of otolith microchemistry to indicate the recent habitat use, and plasma concentrations of the hormone insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) as an index of recent growth rate, to demonstrate differences in growth and habitat use by Dolly Varden Salvelinus malma occupying both freshwater and estuarine habitats in south‐west Alaska. Extensive sampling in all habitats revealed that fish had higher IGF1 levels in estuarine compared to lake habitats throughout the summer, and that the growth rates in different habitats within the estuary varied seasonally. In addition, otolith microchemistry indicated differentiation in estuarine habitat use among individual S. malma throughout summer months. Although growth in the estuary was higher than in fresh water in nearly all sites and months, the benefits and use of the estuarine habitats varied on finer spatial scales. Therefore, this study further illustrates the diverse life histories of S. malma and indicates an evaluation of the benefits of marine waters needs to include sub‐estuary scale habitat use.
Tryptophan Supplementation and Postoperative Delirium—A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Robinson Thomas N. , Dunn Christina L. , Adams Jill C. , Hawkins Carrie L. , Tran Zung V. , Raeburn Christopher D. , Moss Marc
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To determine whether the postoperative administration of tryptophan would be beneficial for elderly adults undergoing surgery who are at risk of developing postoperative delirium.

Design

Randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial.

Setting

Denver Veterans Affairs Medical Center.

Participants

Individuals aged 60 and older undergoing major elective operations requiring a postoperative intensive care unit (ICU) admission (n = 325).

Intervention

L‐tryptophan, 1 g orally three times a day or placebo was started after surgery and continued for up to 3 days postoperatively.

Measurements

Delirium and its motor subtypes were measured using the Confusion Assessment Method–Intensive Care Unit (CAM‐ICU) and the Richmond Agitation and Sedation Scale. The primary outcome for between‐group comparison was the incidence of excitatory (mixed and hyperactive) postoperative delirium. The secondary outcomes for comparison were the incidence and duration of overall postoperative delirium.

Results

The overall incidence of postoperative delirium was 39% (95% confidence interval = 34–44%) (n = 116). Seventeen percent of participants in the tryptophan group and 9% in the placebo group had excitatory delirium (P = .18), and the duration of excitatory delirium was 3.3 ± 1.7 days for tryptophan and 3.1 ± 1.9 days for placebo (P = .74). Forty percent of participants in the tryptophan group and 37% in the placebo group had overall delirium (P = .60), and the duration of overall delirium was 2.9 ± 1.8 days for tryptophan and 2.4 ± 1.6 days for placebo (P = .17).

Conclusion

Postoperative tryptophan supplementation in older adults undergoing major elective operations requiring postoperative ICU admission did not reduce the incidence or duration of postoperative excitatory delirium or overall delirium.
Low Levels of 25‐Hydroxy Vitamin D and Active 1,25‐Dihydroxyvitamin D Independently Associated with Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Older Australian Men: The Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project
Authors: Hirani Vasant , Cumming Robert G. , Le Couteur David G. , Naganathan Vasikaran , Blyth Fiona , Handelsman David J. , Waite Louise M. , Seibel Markus J.
Published: August 2014

Objectives

To examine the associations between serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25OHD) levels and the active vitamin D metabolite, 1,25‐hydroxyvitamin D (1,25OHD), with type 2 diabetes mellitus (DM) in community‐living men aged 70 and older.

Design

Cross‐sectional.

Setting

A population‐based, cross‐sectional analysis of the baseline phase of the Concord Health and Ageing in Men Project (CHAMP), a large epidemiological study conducted in Sydney between January 2005 and May 2007.

Participants

Community dwelling men aged 70 and older taking part in CHAMP (N = 1,659).

Measurements

Serum 25OHD and 1,25OHD levels, presence of DM, age, country of birth, season of blood collection, sun exposure, body mass index, vitamin D supplement use, statin use, income, measures of health, depression, activity of daily living disabilities, parathyroid hormone, estimated glomerular filtration rate, phosphate, and calcium.

Results

The prevalence of DM was 20.0%. There was a significant association between low 25OHD and 1,25OHD levels and DM that remained after adjustment for a wide range of confounders and covariates of clinical significance such as comorbidity, renal function, calciotropic hormones, and medications.

Conclusion

25OHD and 1,25OHD levels were associated with DM. The independent association between serum 25OHD and 1,25OHD concentrations and DM raises the question of whether each of the two vitamin D metabolites may influence DM through different biological mechanisms and pathways.
Role of Physical Activity in Reducing Cognitive Decline in Older Mexican‐American Adults
Authors: Ottenbacher Allison J. , Snih Soham Al , Bindawas Saad M. , Markides Kyriakos S. , Graham James E. , Samper‐Ternent Rafael , Raji Mukaila , Ottenbacher Kenneth J.
Published: August 2014

The effect of physical activity on cognitive function in older adults from minority and disadvantaged populations is not well understood. This study examined the longitudinal association between physical activity and cognition in older Mexican Americans. The study methodology included a prospective cohort with longitudinal analysis of data from the Hispanic Established Populations for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly. General linear mixed models were used to assess the associations and interactions between physical activity and cognitive function over 14 years. Community‐based assessments were performed in participants' homes. Physical activity was recorded for 1,669 older Mexican Americans using the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly. Cognition was measured using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and separated into memory and nonmemory components. A statistically significant positive association was observed between levels of physical activity and cognitive function after adjusting for age, sex, marital status, education, and comorbid health conditions. There was a statistically significant difference in MMSE scores over time between participants in the third (β = 0.11, standard error (SE) = 0.05) and fourth (β = 0.10, SE = 0.2) quartiles of physical activity and those in the first. The protective effect of physical activity on cognitive decline was evident for the memory component of the MMSE but not the nonmemory component after adjusting for covariates. Greater physical activity at baseline was associated with less cognitive decline over 14 years in older Mexican Americans. The reduction in cognitive decline appeared to be related to the memory components of cognitive function.
Carbon and Water Footprints and Energy Use of Greenhouse Tomato Production in Northern Italy
Authors: Almeida Joana , Achten Wouter M.J. , Verbist Bruno , Heuts Reindert F. , Schrevens Eddie , Muys Bart
Published: August 2014

This study reports on the carbon, water, and energy footprints of tomatoes grown in a greenhouse in Northern Italy and two possible future variations of heating and carbon dioxide (CO2) fertilization on the current setup. The heat supply in place, consisting of natural gas (NG) and canola oil combustion, is compared to cogeneration and incineration of municipal solid waste for heating and CO2 from industrial exhaust for fertilization. As a benchmark, the current system is also compared to a conventional system, in which heat is delivered solely based on NG. Each kilogram (kg) of fresh tomatoes (“Cuore di Bue” variety) produced in the current greenhouse emits 2.28 kg CO2 equivalents (eq) and uses 95.5 megajoules (MJ) eq energy and 122 liters (L) of water. Relative to the system in place, the carbon footprint (CF) is 57.5% and 18% higher with conventional NG heating and cogeneration and is 40% lower with waste valorization. Further, 33%, 55%, and 63% less energy and 9%, 96%, and 14% less water are used in the conventional, cogeneration, and waste valorization scenarios, respectively. This confirms that there are multiple strategies to reduce the impact of the tomato production under consideration.
Effect of genetic and pharmacological blockade of GABA receptors on the 5‐HT2C receptor function during stress
Authors: Martin Cédric B. P. , Gassmann Martin , Chevarin Caroline , Hamon Michel , Rudolph Uwe , Bettler Bernhard , Lanfumey Laurence , Mongeau Raymond
Published: August 2014

Serotonin (5‐HT)2C receptors play a role in psychoaffective disorders and often contribute to the antidepressant and anxiolytic effects of psychotropic drugs. During stress, activation of these receptors exerts a negative feedback on 5‐HT release, probably by increasing the activity of GABAergic interneurons. However, to date, the GABA receptor types that mediate the 5‐HT2C receptor‐induced feedback inhibition are still unknown. To address this question, we assessed the inhibition of 5‐HT turnover by a 5‐HT2C receptor agonist (RO 60‐0175) at the hippocampal level and under conditions of stress, after pharmacological or genetic inactivation of either GABA‐A or GABA‐B receptors in mice. Neither the GABA‐B receptor antagonist phaclofen nor the specific genetic ablation of either GABA‐B1a or GABA‐B1b subunits altered the inhibitory effect of RO 60‐0175, although 5‐HT turnover was markedly decreased in GABA‐B1a knock‐out mice in both basal and stress conditions. In contrast, the 5‐HT2C receptor‐mediated inhibition of 5‐HT turnover was reduced by the GABA‐A receptor antagonist bicuculline. However, a significant effect of 5‐HT2C receptor activation persisted in mutant mice deficient in the α3 subunit of GABA‐A receptors. It can be inferred that non‐α3 subunit‐containing GABA‐A receptors, but not GABA‐B receptors, mediate the 5‐HT2C‐induced inhibition of stress‐induced increase in hippocampal 5‐HT turnover in mice.

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Serotonin (5‐HT2C) receptors expressed by GABA interneurons (2) are known to drive an indirect, GABA‐mediated, inhibitory feedback control of 5‐HT neurons, especially under stressful conditions. Using mutant mice and selective ligands, we demonstrated that this feedback control involves not only GABA‐A receptors (1) but also GABA‐B1a receptors (4), that would inhibit the stimulatory influence of cortical glutamatergic afferences (3) on GABA interneurons. Adaptations of these 5‐HT‐GABA‐glu interactions may contribute to the anxiolytic effects of chronic antidepressant treatments.
Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 recycles to the cell surface in protein phosphatase 2A‐dependent manner in non‐neuronal and neuronal cell lines
Authors: Pandey Saurabh , Mahato Prabhat Kumar , Bhattacharyya Samarjit
Published: August 2014

Trafficking of G protein‐coupled receptors plays a crucial role in controlling the precise signalling of the receptor as well as its proper regulation. Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 (mGluR1), a G protein‐coupled receptor, is a member of the group I mGluR family. mGluR1 plays a critical role in neuronal circuit formation and also in multiple types of synaptic plasticity. This receptor has also been reported to be involved in various neuropsychiatric diseases. Other than the central nervous system, mGluR1 plays crucial roles in various non‐neuronal cells like hepatocytes, skin cells, etc. Although it has been reported that mGluR1 gets endocytosed on ligand application, the events after the internalization of the receptor has not been studied. We show here that mGluR1 internalizes on ligand application. Subsequent to endocytosis, majority of the receptors localize at the recycling compartment and no significant presence of the receptor was noticed in the lysosome. Furthermore, mGluR1 returned to the cell membrane subsequent to ligand‐mediated internalization. We also show here that the recycling of mGluR1 is dependent on the activity of protein phosphatase 2A. Thus, our data suggest that the ligand‐mediated internalized receptors recycle back to the cell surface in protein phosphatase 2A‐dependent manner.

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Metabotropic glutamate receptor 1 mGluR1 is involved in various forms of synaptic plasticity and in many neuropsychiatric disorders. We show here that mGluR1 internalizes on ligand application and subsequently recycles to the cell surface. Our data also suggest that inhibition of protein phosphatase PP2A activity completely inhibits the recycling of mGluR1. Thus, our data provide important information regarding the trafficking of mGluR1 to help us understand the regulation of the receptor in both the normal and diseased brain.
Protected Sites: Reconceptualising Secret Societies in Colonial and Postcolonial Singapore
Authors: Mohamed Nasir Kamaludeen
Published: August 2014

Street gangs in Singapore are commonly known as secret societies. The irony behind this term is that these secret societies have not only been contributing to the making of modern Singapore for more than a century, they have often carried out their dealings in the public sphere. These overt operations of the underworld are possible, in part, due to the symbiotic relationship forged between the Chinese triads and the police which have continued till today. Through examining the notion of protected sites, this article explores how the postcolonial state has taken on a similar pragmatic approach as that practised by its colonial predecessor in the management of the criminal underworld.
Melatonin promotes seed germination under high salinity by regulating antioxidant systems, ABA and GA4 interaction in cucumber (Cucumis sativus L.)
Authors: Zhang Hai‐Jun , Zhang Na , Yang Rong‐Chao , Wang Li , Sun Qian‐Qian , Li Dian‐Bo , Cao Yun‐Yun , Weeda Sarah , Zhao Bing , Ren Shuxin , Guo Yang‐Dong
Published: August 2014

Although previous studies have found that melatonin can promote seed germination, the mechanisms involved in perceiving and signaling melatonin remain poorly understood. In this study, it was found that melatonin was synthesized during cucumber seed germination with a peak in melatonin levels occurring 14 hr into germination. This is indicative of a correlation between melatonin synthesis and seed germination. Meanwhile, seeds pretreated with exogenous melatonin (1 μm) showed enhanced germination rates under 150 mm NaCl stress compared to water‐pretreated seeds under salinity stress. There are two apparent mechanisms by which melatonin alleviated salinity‐induced inhibition of seed germination. Exogenous melatonin decreased oxidative damage induced by NaCl stress by enhancing gene expression of antioxidants. Under NaCl stress, compared to untreated control, the activities of antioxidant enzymes including superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT), and peroxidase (POD) were significantly increased by approximately 1.3–5.0‐fold, with a concomitant 1.4–2.0‐fold increase of CsCu‐ZnSOD, CsFe‐ZnSOD, CsCAT, and CsPOD in melatonin‐pretreated seeds. Melatonin also alleviated salinity stress by affecting abscisic acid (ABA) and gibberellin acid (GA) biosynthesis and catabolism during seed germination. Compared to NaCl treatment, melatonin significantly up‐regulated ABA catabolism genes (e.g., CsCYP707A1 and CsCYP707A2, 3.5 and 105‐fold higher than NaCl treatment at 16 hr, respectively) and down‐regulated ABA biosynthesis genes (e.g., CsNECD2, 0.29‐fold of CK2 at 16 hr), resulting in a rapid decrease of ABA content during the early stage of germination. At the same time, melatonin positively up‐regulated GA biosynthesis genes (e.g., GA20ox and GA3ox, 2.3 and 3.9‐fold higher than NaCl treatment at 0 and 12 hr, respectively), contributing to a significant increase of GA (especially GA4) content. In this study, we provide new evidence suggesting that melatonin alleviates the inhibitory effects of NaCl stress on germination mainly by regulating the biosynthesis and catabolism of ABA and GA4.
Molecular Phylogeny and Cryptic Diversity of the Genus Phacus (Phacaceae, Euglenophyceae) and the Descriptions of Seven New Species
Authors: Kim Jong Im , Shin Woongghi
Published: August 2014

The photosynthetic euglenoid genus Phacus is commonly found in freshwater; it is characterized by a rigid to semi‐rigid cell, usually flat with numerous small discoid chloroplasts without pyrenoids. To understand the phylogenetic relationships among Phacus species, we used combined cytoplasmic SSU and LSU rDNA and plastid‐encoded SSU and LSU rDNA sequence data from 82 strains, including seven Lepocinclis, three Discoplastis, one Eutreptia, and two Eutreptiella strains, as well as morphological data. The combined molecular dataset was analyzed using Bayesian and maximum likelihood methods. The resulting tree revealed that the genus Phacus was not monophyletic and fully resolved the phylogenetic relationships among eight lineages that were congruent with unique morphological characters in each clade. Molecular phylogeny and detailed morphological data led to the descriptions of seven new species: P. brevisulca, P. claviformis, P. hordei‐formis, P. longisulca, P. minimus, P. paraorbicularis, and P. viridioryza. The new species were well supported as independent species and formed close relationships with small Phacus species and P. orbicularis in the tree. In addition, the new species had unique molecular signatures and showed high genetic diversity. Although the strains of P. orbicularis sensu Hübner were morphologically very similar, the phylogenetic analyses and genetic diversity suggested that P. orbicularis sensu Hübner should be divided into two subclades.
Efavirenz modulation of sleep spindles and sleep spectral profile
Authors: Simen Arthur A. , Ma Junshui , Svetnik Vladimir , Mayleben David , Maynard James , Roth Adam , Mixson Lori , Mogg Robin , Shera David , George Laura , Mast T. Chris , Beals Chan , Stoch Aubrey , Struyk Arie , Shire Norah , Fraser Iain
Published: August 2014

Non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors are important antiretroviral agents for the treatment of human immunodeficiency virus. Some non‐nucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitors, in particular efavirenz, have prominent effects on sleep, cognition and psychiatric variables that limit their tolerability. To avoid confounds due to drug–drug and drug–disease interactions, we assessed the effects of efavirenz in healthy volunteers on sleep, cognition and psychological endpoints during the first week of treatment. Forty healthy male subjects were randomized to receive placebo or efavirenz 600 mg nightly for 7 days after completion of a 3‐day placebo run‐in period. Treatment with efavirenz was associated with reduced time to sleep onset in the Maintenance of Wakefulness Test, an increase in non‐rapid eye movement sleep, a large exposure‐related decrease in sigma band spectral density and sleep spindle density during non‐rapid eye movement sleep, and reduced performance on an attention switching task. Because efavirenz has been shown to have serotonin 2A receptor partial‐agonist properties, we reasoned that antagonism of serotonin 2A receptor signalling in the thalamic reticular nucleus, which generates sleep spindles and promotes attention, may be responsible. Consistent with predictions, treatment of healthy volunteers with a single dose of a serotonin 2A receptor antagonist was found to significantly suppress sigma band spectral density in an exposure‐related manner and modulated the overall spectral profile in a manner highly similar to that observed with efavirenz, consistent with the notion that efavirenz exhibits serotonin 2A receptor partial‐agonist pharmacology in humans.
Do the same genes underlie parallel phenotypic divergence in different Littorina saxatilis populations?
Authors: Westram A. M. , Galindo J. , Alm Rosenblad M. , Grahame J. W. , Panova M. , Butlin R. K.
Published: August 2014

Parallel patterns of adaptive divergence and speciation are cited as powerful evidence for the role of selection driving these processes. However, it is often not clear whether parallel phenotypic divergence is underlain by parallel genetic changes. Here, we asked about the genetic basis of parallel divergence in the marine snail Littorina saxatilis, which has repeatedly evolved coexisting ecotypes adapted to either crab predation or wave action. We sequenced the transcriptome of snails of both ecotypes from three distant geographical locations (Spain, Sweden and United Kingdom) and mapped the reads to the L. saxatilis reference genome. We identified genomic regions potentially under divergent selection between ecotypes within each country, using an outlier approach based on FST values calculated per locus. In line with previous studies indicating that gene reuse is generally common, we expected to find extensive sharing of outlier loci due to recent shared ancestry and gene flow between at least two of the locations in our study system. Contrary to our expectations, we found that most outliers were country specific, suggesting that much of the genetic basis of divergence is not shared among locations. However, we did find that more outliers were shared than expected by chance and that differentiation of shared outliers is often generated by the same SNPs. We discuss two mechanisms potentially explaining the limited amount of sharing we observed. First, a polygenic basis of divergent traits might allow for multiple distinct molecular mechanisms generating the same phenotypic patterns. Second, additional, location‐specific axes of selection that we did not focus on in this study may produce distinct patterns of genetic divergence within each site.
Silencing the mob: disrupting quorum sensing as a means to fight plant disease
Authors: Helman Yael , Chernin Leonid
Published: August 2014

Bacteria are able to sense their population's density through a cell–cell communication system, termed ‘quorum sensing’ (QS). This system regulates gene expression in response to cell density through the constant production and detection of signalling molecules. These molecules commonly act as auto‐inducers through the up‐regulation of their own synthesis. Many pathogenic bacteria, including those of plants, rely on this communication system for infection of their hosts. The finding that the countering of QS‐disrupting mechanisms exists in many prokaryotic and eukaryotic organisms offers a promising novel method to fight disease. During the last decade, several approaches have been proposed to disrupt QS pathways of phytopathogens, and hence to reduce their virulence. Such studies have had varied success in vivo, but most lend promising support to the idea that QS manipulation could be a potentially effective method to reduce bacterial‐mediated plant disease. This review discusses the various QS‐disrupting mechanisms found in both bacteria and plants, as well as the different approaches applied artificially to interfere with QS pathways and thus protect plant health.
Malignant transformation of craniopharyngioma with detailed follow‐up
Authors: Wang Wei , Chen Xiao‐Dong , Bai Hong‐Min , Liao Qiu‐Lin , Dai Xue‐jun , Peng Da‐Yun , Cao Hui‐Xia
Published: August 2014

A 29‐year‐old male patient was admitted into hospital with the main complaint of progressive visual disturbance. Both CT SCAN and MRI demonstrated a cystic‐solid contrast‐enhancing sellar‐suprasellar mass with obvious calcification. Histopathological examination of the first resected specimen showed a typical appearance of adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma. The patient received gamma knife therapy after his first operation because of partial tumor removal. He experienced two relapses in the subsequent 2 years, for which only surgical resection was performed. The later histopathology presented malignant appearance with tumor cells moderate to severe pleomorphism, hyperchromasia, increased nuclear cytoplastic ratio, high mitotic activity (30/10 high power fields) and focal coagulative necrosis. The patient died 9 months after identification of histologic malignancy. Clinical and histopathological features, biological behavior of one case of malignant craniopharyngioma were discussed, with a brief review of the relevant literature.
Whole‐of‐society approach for public health policymaking: a case study of polycentric governance from Quebec, Canada
Authors: Addy Nii A. , Poirier Alain , Blouin Chantal , Drager Nick , Dubé Laurette
Published: August 2014

In adopting a whole‐of‐society (WoS) approach that engages multiple stakeholders in public health policies across contexts, the authors propose that effective governance presents a challenge. The purpose of this paper is to highlight a case for how polycentric governance underlying the WoS approach is already functioning, while outlining an agenda to enable adaptive learning for improving such governance processes. Drawing upon a case study from Quebec, Canada, we employ empirically developed concepts from extensive, decades‐long work of the 2009 Nobel laureate Elinor Ostrom in the governance of policy in nonhealth domains to analyze early efforts at polycentric governance in policies around overnutrition, highlighting interactions between international, domestic, state and nonstate actors and processes. Using information from primary and secondary sources, we analyze the emergence of the broader policy context of Quebec's public health system in the 20th century. We present a microsituational analysis of the WoS approach for Quebec's 21st century policies on healthy lifestyles, emphasizing the role of governance at the community level. We argue for rethinking prescriptive policy analysis of the 20th century, proposing an agenda for diagnostic policy analysis, which explicates the multiple sets of actors and interacting variables shaping polycentric governance for operationalizing the WoS approach to policymaking in specific contexts.
The importance of dietary protein for muscle health in inactive, hospitalized older adults
Authors: Thalacker‐Mercer Anna E. , Drummond Micah J.
Published: August 2014

Dietary protein and amino acids are necessary for overall human health. Insufficient protein intake induces a negative protein balance with adverse outcomes such as muscle atrophy and functional decline—outcomes that are worsened in older adults. Furthermore, during inactivity, such as bed rest/hospitalization, skeletal muscle protein synthesis is reduced, protein balance is negative, and older adults lose significant amounts of muscle. Dietary protein and amino acid supplementation (∼30 g protein and ∼3 g leucine) stimulate skeletal muscle protein anabolism in healthy, community‐dwelling older adults and may be considered as possible nutritional interventions to improve the muscle protein balance and potentially support skeletal muscle maintenance in hospitalized older adults. The following is a timely review of metabolic and dietary challenges faced by hospitalized older adults and potential dietary protein and amino acids solutions for maintaining skeletal muscle health during hospitalization‐induced inactivity in this population.
A comparison of the effectiveness of physical activity and sedentary behaviour interventions in reducing sedentary time in adults: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of controlled trials
Authors: Prince S. A. , Saunders T. J. , Gresty K. , Reid R. D.
Published: August 2014

The objective of this study was to systematically review the literature and compare the effectiveness of controlled interventions with a focus on physical activity (PA) and/or sedentary behaviours (SBs) for reducing sedentary time in adults. Six electronic databases were searched to identify all studies that examined the effects of interventions that targeted PA and/or SBs and that reported on changes in SBs (sedentary, sitting or television time). A qualitative synthesis was performed for all studies, and meta‐analyses conducted among studies with mean differences (min/d) of sedentary time. PROSPERO: CRD42014006535. Sixty‐five controlled studies met inclusion criteria; 33 were used in the meta‐analyses. Interventions with a focus on PA or that included a PA and SB component produced less consistent findings and generally resulted in modest reductions in sedentary time (PA: standardized mean differences [SMD] = −0.22 [95% confidence interval {CI}: −0.35, −0.10], PA + SB: SMD = −0.37 [95% CI: −0.69, −0.05]). Moderate quality evidence from the randomized controlled trial meta‐analysis coupled with the qualitative synthesis provides consistent evidence that large and clinically meaningful reductions in sedentary time can be expected from interventions with a focus on reducing SBs (SMD = −1.28 [95% CI: −1.68, −0.87] ). There is evidence to support the need for interventions to include a component focused on reducing SBs in order to generate clinically meaningful reductions in sedentary time.
Relationship between Brain Natriuretic Peptides and Recurrence of Atrial Fibrillation after Successful Direct Current Cardioversion: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: ZOGRAFOS THEODOROS , MANIOTIS CHRISTOS , KATSIVAS APOSTOLOS , KATRITSIS DEMOSTHENES
Published: August 2014

Background

Atrial fibrillation (AF) recurrence is common after successful direct current cardioversion (DCCV), with a 40% rate of recurrence within the first month. Several studies have investigated the potential association between brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) or N‐terminal (NT)‐proBNP levels before DCCV and the risk of AF recurrence, but results have been inconsistent. We, therefore, conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis of all available data to determine whether sinus rhythm (SR) maintenance after successful DCCV may be determined by preprocedural BNP and NT‐proBNP levels.

Methods

We systematically searched Scopus, the Cochrane library, EMBASE, and MEDLINE databases to identify publications evaluating BNP or NT‐proBNP levels in relation to post‐DCCV AF recurrence, indexed from inception to September 2013. Among the initial 1,067 citations, 18 studies fulfilled the specified criteria. The difference in BNP and NT‐proBNP concentrations in the AF recurrence and the SR‐maintaining group was estimated by the standardized mean difference and the estimates of the pooled outcomes were evaluated using random‐effects models.

Results

Baseline BNP levels in the AF recurrence group were significantly higher compared to BNP levels in the SR‐maintaining group (standardized mean difference [SMD] –1.51, confidence interval [CI] [–2.53, –0.48], P = 0.004). Similar results were observed for NT‐proBNP levels, which were significantly higher in the AF recurrence group compared with the SR‐maintaining group (SMD –0.63, CI [–1.13, –0.14], P = 0.01).

Conclusions

Our analysis suggests that low preprocedural BNP/NT‐proBNP levels are associated with SR maintenance. The use of BNP or NT‐proBNP for prediction of long‐term response to DCCV appears to be useful and should be further evaluated.