bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The reactions of shoaling adult cod to a pelagic trawl: implications for commercial trawling
Authors: Rosen Shale , Engås Arill , Fernö Anders , Jörgensen Terje
Published: January 2012

Rosen, S., Engås, A., Fernö, A., and Jörgensen, T. 2012. The reactions of shoaling adult cod to a pelagic trawl: implications for commercial trawling. – ICES Journal of Marine Science, 69: 303–312. The reactions of shoaling adult Atlantic cod to a pelagic trawl were measured during fishing off the north coast of Norway. Cod remaining in the trawl track dived at rates as fast as 0.35 m s−1 following vessel passage and swam away from the vessel, in the direction of the approaching trawl, at an average rate of 0.6 m s−1. They did not attempt to swim ahead of the trawl as documented previously, but passed into the lower half of the trawl entrance and swam slowly in the direction of trawling at a rate of 0.2–0.5 m s−1 as the trawl's greater speed through water carried them deeper into the trawl. Shoals compressed vertically once inside the trawl, suggesting that packing density increased at least fourfold. Fish remained in the lower part of the trawl as they moved through its tapered section towards the codend, with little to no clearance above the bottom panel, but significant clearance beneath the top panel. Catches were sufficient to support commercial harvest, and the behaviour observed suggests that changes in trawl design and fishing strategy might improve fuel economy and species selectivity.
PRC2 directly methylates GATA4 and represses its transcriptional activity
Authors: He Aibin , Shen Xiaohua , Ma Qing , Cao Jingjing , von Gise Alexander , Zhou Pingzhu , Wang Gang , Marquez Victor E. , Orkin Stuart H. , Pu William T.
Published: January 2012

Polycomb-repressive complex 2 (PRC2) promotes tissue-specific differentiation by depositing trimethylated histone H3 Lys 27 (H3K27me3) epigenetic marks to silence ectopic gene expression programs. Here, we show that EZH2, the catalytic subunit of PRC2, is required for cardiac morphogenesis. Both in vitro and in fetal hearts, EZH2 interacted with cardiac transcription factor GATA4 and directly methylated it at Lys 299. PRC2 methylation of GATA4 attenuated its transcriptional activity by reducing its interaction with and acetylation by p300. Our results reveal a new mechanism of PRC2-mediated transcriptional repression in which PRC2 methylates a transcription factor to inhibit its transcriptional activity.
Phactr4 regulates directional migration of enteric neural crest through PP1, integrin signaling, and cofilin activity
Authors: Zhang Ying , Kim Tae-Hee , Niswander Lee
Published: January 2012

Hirschsprung disease (HSCR) is caused by a reduction of enteric neural crest cells (ENCCs) in the gut and gastrointestinal blockage. Knowledge of the genetics underlying HSCR is incomplete, particularly genes that control cellular behaviors of ENCC migration. Here we report a novel regulator of ENCC migration in mice. Disruption of thePhactr4gene causes an embryonic gastrointestinal defect due to colon hypoganglionosis, which resembles human HSCR. Time-lapse imaging of ENCCs within the embryonic gut demonstrates a collective cell migration defect. Mutant ENCCs show undirected cellular protrusions and disrupted directional and chain migration. Phactr4 acts cell-autonomously in ENCCs and colocalizes with integrin and cofilin at cell protrusions. Mechanistically, we show that Phactr4 negatively regulates integrin signaling through the RHO/ROCK pathway and coordinates protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) with cofilin activity to regulate cytoskeletal dynamics. Strikingly, lamellipodia formation and in vivo ENCC chain migration defects are rescued by inhibition of ROCK or integrin function. Our results demonstrate a previously unknown pathway in ENCC collective migration in vivo and provide new candidate genes for human genetic studies of HSCR.
A decade of 3C technologies: insights into nuclear organization
Authors: de Wit Elzo , de Laat Wouter
Published: January 2012

Over the past 10 years, the development of chromosome conformation capture (3C) technology and the subsequent genomic variants thereof have enabled the analysis of nuclear organization at an unprecedented resolution and throughput. The technology relies on the original and, in hindsight, remarkably simple idea that digestion and religation of fixed chromatin in cells, followed by the quantification of ligation junctions, allows for the determination of DNA contact frequencies and insight into chromosome topology. Here we evaluate and compare the current 3C-based methods (including 4C [chromosome conformation capture-on-chip], 5C [chromosome conformation capture carbon copy], HiC, and ChIA-PET), summarize their contribution to our current understanding of genome structure, and discuss how shape influences genome function.
A firm grip does not always pay off: a new Phact(r) 4 integrin signaling
Authors: Sun Zhiqi , Fässler Reinhard
Published: January 2012

β1 integrin signaling plays crucial roles in enteric nervous system development. Zhang and colleagues (pp. 69–81) discovered that phosphatase and actin regulator 4 (Phactr4) antagonizes β1 integrin signaling through protein phosphatase 1 (PP1) in focal adhesions of enteric neural crest cells (ENCCs). Loss of Phactr4–PP1 interaction leads to increased β1 integrin signaling, loss of collective and directional migration, and hindgut hypogangaliosis, indicating that the right adjustment of β1 integrin signaling is required for the normal migration and organization of ENCCs.
The enemy within: intronic miR-26b represses its host gene,ctdsp2, to regulate neurogenesis
Authors: Han Jinju , Denli Ahmet M. , Gage Fred H.
Published: January 2012

Differentiation of multipotent stem cells occurs through the highly coordinated control of gene expression. Repressor element 1 (RE1) silencing transcription factor (REST), a master transcriptional regulator in neuronal stem cells, restricts neuronal gene expression. REST activity is context-dependent and is modified by its cofactors, such as Ctdsp2. In this issue ofGenes & Development, Dill and colleagues (pp. 25–30) report on the microRNA-mediated regulation of neural differentiation. Interestingly, this microRNA is post-transcriptionally regulated and modulates expression of its host gene,ctdsp2.
Experimental studies of dispersive double reflections excited in cylindrically bent perfect-crystal slabs at a constant neutron wavelength
Authors: Mikula Pavol , Vrána Miroslav , Šaroun Jan , Davydov Vadim , Em Vyacheslav , Seong Baek-Seok
Published: January 2012

Multiple Bragg reflections (MBRs), which can be realized in a bent perfect crystal (BPC) slab and are mutually in dispersive diffraction geometry, provide a monochromatic beam of excellent resolution. After identifying many MBR effects in a BPC Si crystal by using the method of θ–2θDscanning, we have turned our attention to the study of selected effects using the method of azimuthal rotation of the crystal lattice around the scattering vector of the primary reflection for a fixed chosen wavelength. In this paper, several azimuthal scans with the intention of possible practical exploitation for very high resolution diffractometry are presented.
A simplified invariant line analysis for face-centred cubic/body-centred cubic precipitation systems. Erratum
Authors: Liu Hognwei , Waclawik Eric R. , Luo Chengping
Published: January 2012

Errors in the paper by Liu, Waclawik & Luo [J. Appl. Cryst.(2010),43, 448–454] are corrected.
Phoma medicaginis stimulates the induction of the octadecanoid and phenylpropanoid pathways in Medicago truncatula
Authors: KAMPHUIS LARS G. , WILLIAMS ANGELA H. , KÜSTER HELGE , TRENGOVE ROBERT D. , SINGH KARAM B. , OLIVER RICHARD P. , ELLWOOD SIMON R.
Published: January 2012

Gene expression changes and metabolite abundances were measured during the interaction of Medicago truncatula with the fungal necrotrophic pathogen Phoma medicaginis in leaf tissue of susceptible and resistant accessions. Over 330 genes were differentially expressed in plants infected with P. medicaginis relative to mock‐inoculated plants at 12 h post‐inoculation. Of these, 191 were induced in either the resistant or the susceptible accession, with 143 genes repressed. Expression changes were observed in genes involved in the oxidative burst, cell wall strengthening and lipid metabolism, as well as several transcription factors. Genes related to salicylic acid, jasmonate and ethylene responses were up‐regulated, as well as genes leading to the production of jasmonic acid. Significant induction of genes in the phenylpropanoid pathway leading to lignin and isoflavonoid biosynthesis occurred. High‐pressure liquid chromatography with UV detection (HPLC‐UV) identified several phenolic compounds induced by P. medicaginis, as well as constitutively higher levels of phenolic compounds, in the resistant M. truncatula accession. Differentially regulated genes induced in both the resistant and susceptible accessions, but with different kinetics, and constitutively more highly expressed and induced phenolic compounds provide candidates for functional analysis. Taken together, these results highlight the importance of the octadecanoid and phenylpropanoid pathways in defence against this necrotrophic pathogen.
Neurokinin‐1‐receptor antagonism decreases anxiety and emotional arousal circuit response to noxious visceral distension in women with irritable bowel syndrome: a pilot study
Authors: Tillisch K. , Labus J. , Nam B. , Bueller J. , Smith S. , Suyenobu B. , Siffert J. , McKelvy J. , Naliboff B. , Mayer E.
Published: January 2012

Background  Irritable bowel syndrome is characterised by chronic abdominal pain and frequent comorbid anxiety. The substance P/neurokinin‐1 receptor system is implicated in the regulation of both pain and anxiety, suggesting a potential therapeutic target in IBS.

Aim  To determine whether inhibition of the neurokinin‐1 receptor (NK1R) will change pain ratings and brain responses to experimental visceral pain and anxiety symptoms in women with IBS or not.

Methods  Rome II positive IBS women were recruited for a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, cross‐over study of NK1R antagonist AV608. Treatment periods were 3 weeks with a 2‐week washout period. Functional MRI during a visceral distension paradigm was performed before first treatment and after treatment blocks. SPM8 was used to compare brain activity during painful and nonpainful visceral stimuli in regions associated with emotional arousal and interoception. Negative affect, anxiety symptoms and pain ratings were assessed.

Results  Eleven subjects completed the study and eight subjects provided fMRI data. AV608, compared with placebo, was associated with reduced anxiety, negative affect, and pain ratings. During AV608 treatment, the amygdala, hippocampus and anterior cingulate gyrus showed decreased activity during visceral distension. AV608 was also associated with decreases in activity in brain regions associated with interoception (posterior insula, anterior mid‐cingulate gyrus).

Conclusions  Chronic treatment with AV608 in IBS is associated with improved mood and pain ratings and activity of emotional arousal related brain regions. This suggests that further exploration of NK1R antagonists is warranted in visceral pain disorders, particularly in patients with comorbid anxiety symptoms.
The value of apolipoprotein B/A1 ratio in the diagnosis of metabolic syndrome in a Korean population
Authors: Jung Chang Hee , Hwang Jenie Yoonoo , Yu Ji Hee , Shin Mi Seon , Bae Sung Jin , Park Joong‐Yeol , Kim Hong‐Kyu , Lee Woo Je
Published: January 2012

Objective  The ratio of apolipoprotein B (apoB) to apolipoprotein A1 (apoA1) has been reported to be associated with the metabolic syndrome (MetS). However, the optimal cut‐off value of apoB/A1 ratio for detecting subjects with MetS has remained undetermined. In the present study, we aimed to investigate whether apoB/A1 ratio can be an indicator of MetS and to determine the optimal cut‐off value of apoB/A1 ratio in detecting subjects with MetS in a Korean population.

Design  This cross‐sectional study was conducted at the Asan Medical Center, Seoul, Republic of Korea.

Subjects and measurements  We collected the data of 10 940 subjects who participated in a routine health screening examination regarding conventional risk factors and serum levels of apoB and apoA1.

Results  The odds for MetS were significantly higher in the highest compared with the lowest apoB/A1 ratio quartiles, after adjustment for confounding variables, in both men [odds ratio (OR) = 4·07, 95% CI = 3·42–4·84] and women (OR = 8·41, 95% CI = 5·85–12·08). The optimal apoB/A1 ratio cut‐off value for the detection of MetS was 0·65, which had a sensitivity of 63·5% and a specificity of 61·3% (area under the curve = 0·67, 95% CI = 0·66–0·68, P < 0·001) in men and 0·62, which had a sensitivity of 67·9% and a specificity of 61·9% (area under the curve = 0·70, 95% CI = 0·69–0·71, P < 0·001) in women.

Conclusions  These results suggest that apoB/A1 ratio is independently associated with MetS and that an apoB/A1 ratio >0·65 in men and 0·62 in women is a marker of MetS independent from conventional risk factors.
Evolution of biomarkers of liver fibrosis and liver insufficiency in hepatitis C virus‐infected patients treated with pegylated interferon plus ribavirin and rituximab
Authors: Geri G. , Terrier B. , Imbert‐Bismut F. , Saadoun D. , Sène D. , Poynard T. , Cacoub P.
Published: January 2012

Summary.  Therapeutic options in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐related vasculitis may target the viral trigger using antiviral therapy [pegylated interferon plus ribavirin (PEG‐IFN/RBV)], and/or the downstream B‐cell arm of autoimmunity with rituximab (RTX). To date, no study has compared the efficacy of RTX combined with PEG‐IFN/RBV on biomarkers of liver insufficiency in patients with severe liver fibrosis. Twenty‐eight untreated HCV‐related vasculitis patients with severe liver fibrosis (Metavir F3–F4) were included: 14 patients received RTX plus PEG‐IFN/RBV and 14 patients PEG‐IFN/RBV. The main clinical and biological data were recorded and compared at baseline, month 3 (M3), M12 and M24 of follow‐up. Baseline epidemiological, clinical, virological and immunological features were similar between the groups. The virological response did not differ between cases and controls. The alanine aminotransferase (ALT) level and HCV viral load did not increase in patients treated with RTX. Serum albumin levels increased in patients treated with RTX at M3 and M6 (108% and 111% of baseline value; P = 0.06 and P = 0.13), whereas it was stable in patients treated without RTX. FibroTest values decreased from 0.70 at baseline to 0.59 at M3 (P = 0.5) and returned to 0.69 at M24 in the RTX‐PEG‐IFN/RBV group, whereas they were stable in the PEG‐IFN/RBV group. RTX is safe in patients with severe HCV liver fibrosis and vasculitis. No beneficial effects of RTX were evidenced on liver fibrosis progression, but we found interesting correlations with the serum albumin level, FibroTest values and B‐cell count.
Autogeny induced by a nonsteroidal ecdysone agonist tebufenozide in the mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus
Authors: GELBIČ IVAN , ROZSYPALOVÁ PETRA
Published: January 2012

The effects of tebufenozide, a nonsteroidal agonist of ecdysone, on egg development and reproduction in the anautogenic mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus Say (Culicidae, Diptera) are examined. The study population originates from Hyderabad, India. A dose‐dependent toxicity is observed when varying concentrations (10 µg L−1 to 10 pg L−1 ) of a flowable formulation of tebufenozide, known as Mimic 2F, are applied to first‐instar larvae in water. The median lethal dose (LC50) against larvae is very low at 1.29 ng L−1 H2O. Doses below the LC50 induce vitellogenesis in the females that subsequently emerge, and these females lay eggs autogenically (without blood feeding). Autogenous egg clutches are laid through three ovarian cycles. The number of eggs laid in each clutch is lower compared with an anautogenous clutch. An autogenic population has been maintained for over 15 generations after the primary induction, during which time the females have not been allowed to feed on blood. By comparison, doses higher than the LC50 inhibit ovarian development. There is a gradual degeneration of the ovaries, and the females die approximately 20 days after imaginal ecdysis without commencing vitellogenesis. The results are discussed in relation to the endocrine and nutritional regulation of vitellogenesis in C. quinquefasciatus, and the possibility of using tebufenozide to regulate populations of some species of mosquito .
Germination patterns and implications for invasiveness in three Taraxacum (Asteraceae) species
Authors: LUO J , CARDINA J
Published: January 2012

Luo J & Cardina J (2012). Germination patterns and implications for invasiveness in three Taraxacum (Asteraceae) species. Weed Research 52, 112–121.

The ability to germinate across different environments has been considered an important trait of invasive plant species that allows for establishment success in new habitats. Using two alien congener species of Asteraceae –Taraxacum officinale (invasive) and Taraxacum laevigatum laevigatum (non‐invasive) – we tested the hypothesis that invasive species germinate better than non‐invasives under various conditions. The germination patterns of Taraxacum brevicorniculatum, a contaminant found in seeds of the crop Taraxacum kok‐saghyz, were also investigated to evaluate its invasive potential. In four experiments, we germinated seeds along gradients of alternating temperature, constant temperature (with or without light), water potential and following accelerated ageing. Neither higher nor lower germination per se explained invasion success for the Taraxacum species tested here. At alternating temperature, the invasive T. officinale had higher germination than or similar to the non‐invasive T. laevigatum. Contrary to predictions, T. laevigatum exhibited higher germination than T. officinale in environments of darkness, low water potential or after the seeds were exposed to an ageing process. These results suggested a complicated role of germination in the success of T. officinale. Taraxacum brevicorniculatum showed the highest germination among the three species in all environments. The invasive potential of this species is thus unclear and will probably depend on its performance at other life stages along environmental gradients.
Empowerment, patient centred care and self‐management
Authors: Pulvirenti Mariastella , McMillan John , Lawn Sharon
Published: January 2012

Background  Patient or person centred care is widely accepted as the philosophy and practice that underpins quality care. An examination of the Australian National Chronic Disease Strategy and literature in the field highlights assumptions about the self‐manager as patient and a focus on clinical settings.

Objective and Conclusion  This paper considers patient or person centred care in the light of empowerment as it is understood in the health promotion charters first established in Alma Ata in 1977. We argue that patient or person centred care can be reconfigured within a social justice and rights framework and that doing so supports the creation of conditions for well‐being in the broader context, one that impacts strongly on individuals. These arguments have broader implications for the practice of patient centred care as it occurs between patient and health professional and for creating shared responsibility for management of the self. It also has implications for those who manage their health outside of the health sector.
Barriers and facilitators to routine distribution of patient decision support interventions: a preliminary study in community‐based primary care settings
Authors: Uy Visith , May Suepattra G. , Tietbohl Caroline , Frosch Dominick L.
Published: January 2012

Background  A growing body of literature documents the value of decision support interventions (DESIs) in facilitating patient participation in preference sensitive decision making, but little is known about their implementation in routine care.

Objective  This study explored barriers and facilitators to prescribing DESIs in primary care.

Setting and participants  Four community‐based primary care practices across Los Angeles County serving diverse low and middle income populations participated.

Design  The first phase focused on implementing DESI prescribing into routine care. Weekly academic detailing visits served to identify barriers to DESI prescribing, generate ethnographic field notes and record DESI prescriptions. The second phase explored the impact of a financial incentive on DESI prescribing. At the project’s conclusion, each physician completed an in‐depth interview.

Results  The four practices prescribed an average of 6.5 DESIs a month (range 3.6–9.2) during Phase I. The financial incentive increased DESI prescribing by 71% to 11.1 per month (range 3.5–21.4). The estimated percentages of patients who viewed the DESI were 37.9 and 43.9% during Phases I and II, respectively. Qualitative data suggest that physician buy‐in with the project goal was crucial to DESI distribution success. Competing demands and time pressures were persistent barriers. The effects of the financial incentive were mixed.

Conclusions  This study confirmed the importance of physician engagement when implementing DESIs and found mixed effects for providing financial incentives. The relatively low rate of DESI viewing suggests further research on increasing patient uptake of these interventions in routine practice is necessary.
Ultrastructure of the Spermatozoa of the Domestic Duck (Anas platyrhynchos sp.)
Authors: Simões K. , Orsi A. M. , Artoni S. M. B.
Published: January 2012

The ultrastructure of the spermatozoa of the domestic duck (Anas platyrhynchos sp.) was analysed by transmission and scanning electron microscopies and compared with the results obtained in preliminary studies involving other non‐passerine birds. The spermatozoa were characterised by the presence of a short head, short midpiece and long principal piece. The head consisted of a reduced acrosome that contained moderately electron‐dense homogenous material. The implantation fossa was observed between the base of the nucleus and the proximal centriole. The midpiece contained electron‐dense material associated with the proximal centriole and nuclear membrane, and a long distal centriole surrounded throughout its length by 11–12 elliptical mitochondria. A dense annulus separating the midpiece from the principal piece was visible. Posterior to the annulus, the axoneme was formed surrounded by a dense fibrous sheath, representing the principal piece or flagellum, which was a long segment with a smooth surface and a smaller diameter than the midpiece. The spermatozoon of the domestic duck resembles that of other non‐passerine birds, corresponding to a basic type of spermatozoon similar to that of reptiles, called sauropsid type.
Growth and Shape Modelling of the Rabbit Tibia
Authors: Pazzaglia U. E. , Zarattini G. , Spagnuolo F. , Superti G. , Marchese M.
Published: January 2012

The proliferative impulse of the growth plate cartilage and related structures and its effect on the dimensions of long bones are well documented. The modulation of shape, however, is less known, and in general, it is referred to the coupled resorption/apposition process of bone modelling. A morphometric study was carried out on rabbit tibiae comparing size increments and shape changes in relation to age. Utilizing measurements made using dried bones, radiography and computerized tomography, it was possible to perform a three‐dimensional analysis of shape modulation occurring during a period of growth extending from 3 months to 1 year of age. The dynamics of the shape changes related to growth were studied with a fluorescent tetracycline labelling. This enabled correlation of shape modulation with the 3‐D distribution of apposition and resorption. The current thinking behind the influences and mechanical forces affecting bone architecture was discussed in the light of these findings. Several factors play a role in the structural organization of the human and upper vertebrates’ skeleton, whose shape is genetically determined in the complex process usually referred as ‘modelling’. This does not conflict with the existing evidence of remodelling being influenced by mechanical stimuli, but the unsolved question remains how physical forces (strains) act on the biological substrate of cartilage and bone cells.
Morphofunctional Evaluation of the Testicle and the Spermatogenic Process of Adult White‐Eyed Parakeets (Aratinga leucophthalma MULLER, 1776) During the Different Seasons of the Year
Authors: Peixoto J. V. , Paula T. A. R. , Balarini M. K. , Matta S. L. P. , Santos J. A. D. , Lima C. B. , Peixoto G. V.
Published: January 2012

In this experiment, testicle fragments of 14 adult White‐eyed Parakeets (Aratinga leucophthalma) were evaluated as for their seasonal reproductive activities using the following quantitative parameters: average thickness of the testicular tunica albuginea, volumetric proportion of tubular and extratubular compartments, average diameter of the seminiferous tubules and corporal weight. Parameters were created for qualitative evaluations of the degree of spermatogenic development. In this experiment, all the animals were distributed into four groups, and their testicular fragments were collected during the middle of summer, fall, winter and spring. The animals were submitted to volatile general anaesthesia, and a biopsy was made by celioscopy. The fragments collected were processed histologically. The slides were prepared and later evaluated by using an optical microscope. The average seasonal values of the corporal weight increased, starting in the winter and reaching the peak during the spring. A seasonal testicle cycle was observed, because, in the spring, the testicles showed values for the quantitative and qualitative parameters of spermatic production compatible with the period of greater activity, while the opposite thing happened during the fall. Our data indicate that the parameters of sperm production may be correlated with daily light rather than with air humidity.
Genetic variation of adaptation to heat stress in two Spanish dairy goat breeds
Authors: Menéndez‐Buxadera A. , Molina A. , Arrebola F. , Clemente I. , Serradilla J.M.
Published: January 2012

Monthly test‐day records of milk yield and composition in Murciano‐Granadina (MG) and Payoya (PYA) dairy goats were combined with weather data from meteorological stations, to analyse the effects of heat stress on dairy traits, measured with an index of temperature and relative humidity (THI). A ‘repeatability animal model’ and a ‘reaction norm animal model’ were used to estimate genetic (co)variance components. Estimates obtained with both models were very similar. The h2 of daily yields in MG did not vary throughout the THI scale, but the pattern of variation of content traits showed negative trends for increasing THI values. In PYA, a slight positive tendency throughout the THI scale was observed for the same traits. The genetic correlations between subsequent points in the THI scale were lower than 0.80 when they were computed between low and high THI points. The same reaction norm was observed for all traits. Using the ‘reaction norm animal model’, it was possible to identify those animals that show the same performance throughout the THI trajectory (robust) and those with varying performances (tolerant and non‐tolerant to heat stress). Results in this study also show that heat tolerance decreases, while the genetic level for milk traits increases. Losses because of heat stress were equivalent to 1.9 and 3.1% in the yearly yield of fat and protein for MG and PYA, respectively.
Towards an Automated Detection of Oestrus in Dairy Cattle
Authors: Saint‐Dizier M , Chastant‐Maillard S
Published: January 2012

Contents

Heat detection is a key factor in the profitability of dairy herds. However, this detection demands a significant part of the breeder’s working time and is made difficult by the short duration and the discrete behavioural changes associated with oestrus in modern dairy cows. Progress has been made in monitoring cow with electronics, biosensors and computer. As a result, automated heat detection systems have been developed. Currently available tools are automated detectors of standing heat, activity‐metres and automated in‐line systems measuring milk progesterone. Camera‐software systems and monitoring of body temperature are being developed and may also be used as heat detection tools. The heat detection rate of most systems is above 80% with a specificity of detection generally higher than 90%. The accuracy, however, may vary considerably depending on the tool and model developed. The initial investment of several thousands of euros required for these automated systems becomes a source of profit in large herds, provided the recorded data are properly managed.
Berberine ameliorates inflammation in patients with acute coronary syndrome following percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Meng Shu , Wang Lian‐Sheng , Huang Zhou‐Qing , Zhou Qing , Sun Ying‐Gang , Cao Jia‐Tian , Li Yi‐Gang , Wang Chang‐Qian
Published: January 2012

1. Inflammation is central to the pathogenesis of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and is associated with adverse clinical outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI). Recent in vitro work has demonstrated the anti‐inflammatory effect of berberine, a primary component of the traditional Chinese medicine ‘umbellatine’. In the present study, we further tested whether berberine had any beneficial effects on ACS patients following PCI.

2.In all, 130 ACS patients undergoing PCI were recruited to the present study. Sixty‐one patients were treated with berberine (300 mg, t.i.d., for 30 days) in addition to standard therapy, whereas the remaining patients received standard therapy alone. Circulating inflammatory markers were measured by ELISA, whereas serum lipid profiles were measured by routine chemical assays.

3.In the berberine‐treated group, matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐9, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1, vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM)‐1, C‐reactive protein, interleukin‐6 and monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 were significantly reduced relative to baseline values. Furthermore, the changes in MMP‐9, ICAM‐1 and VCAM‐1 from baseline to after 1 month of treatment differed significantly between the two patient groups. There was a tendency for berberine to induce a slightly greater reduction in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol and triglycerides than standard therapy alone, without affecting high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, but the differences failed to reach statistical significance. No severe adverse effects of berberine were observed.

4.The results of the present study provide the first clinical evidence of the anti‐inflammatory action of berberine in ACS patients following PCI. Berberine may become adjunct therapy to further improve clinical outcomes via its anti‐inflammatory effect in ACS patients.
Fluoxetine rescues impaired hippocampal neurogenesis in a transgenic A53T synuclein mouse model
Authors: Kohl Zacharias , Winner Beate , Ubhi Kiren , Rockenstein Edward , Mante Michael , Münch Martina , Barlow Carolee , Carter Todd , Masliah Eliezer , Winkler Jürgen
Published: January 2012

The accumulation of alpha‐synuclein in Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites of different neuronal populations is one of the neuropathological hallmarks in Parkinson disease (PD). Overexpression of human wildtype or mutant alpha‐synuclein affects the generation of new neurons in the adult dentate gyrus (DG) of the hippocampus in models of PD. Hippocampal dysfunction with reduced neurogenesis plays an important role in the pathogenesis of depression, an important non‐motor symptom in PD. Moreover, effective antidepressant treatment is still an unmet need in PD. The present study explored if impaired hippocampal neurogenesis in the A53T transgenic animal model of PD may be restored by chronic oral application of the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) fluoxetine. First, we determined the expression pattern of transgenic mutant A53T synuclein in developing DG neurons and showed early expression of the transgene linked to a severely impaired neurogenesis. After chronic fluoxetine treatment we observed an increased adult neurogenesis in the hippocampus of more than threefold in treated A53T mice compared with controls. The pro‐neurogenic effect of chronic fluoxetine application is predominantly related to an increased proliferation of neural precursor cells in the DG, and to a lesser extent by induction of differentiation into mature neurons. Analysis of the underlying mechanisms revealed an induction of brain‐derived and glial cell‐derived neurotrophic factor levels as a result of fluoxetine treatment. This study underlines the large potential of SSRI‐dependent mechanisms to stimulate adult hippocampal neurogenesis in alpha‐synuclein models and may lead to novel means to improve neuropsychiatric symptoms in PD.
Transcranial direct current stimulation preconditioning modulates the effect of high‐frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation in the human motor cortex
Authors: Cosentino Giuseppe , Fierro Brigida , Paladino Piera , Talamanca Simona , Vigneri Simone , Palermo Antonio , Giglia Giuseppe , Brighina Filippo
Published: January 2012

Experimental studies emphasize the importance of homeostatic plasticity as a mean of stabilizing the properties of neural circuits. In the present work we combined two techniques able to produce short‐term (5‐Hz repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, rTMS) and long‐term (transcranial direct current stimulation, tDCS) effects on corticospinal excitability to evaluate whether and how the effects of 5‐Hz rTMS can be tuned by tDCS preconditioning. Twelve healthy subjects participated in the study. Brief trains of 5‐Hz rTMS were applied to the primary motor cortex at an intensity of 120% of the resting motor threshold, with recording of the electromyograph traces evoked by each stimulus of the train from the contralateral abductor pollicis brevis muscle. This interventional protocol was preconditioned by 15 min of anodal or cathodal tDCS delivered at 1.5 mA intensity. Our results showed that motor‐evoked potentials (MEPs) increased significantly in size during trains of 5‐Hz rTMS in the absence of tDCS preconditioning. After facilitatory preconditioning with anodal tDCS, 5‐Hz rTMS failed to produce progressive MEP facilitation. Conversely, when 5‐Hz rTMS was preceded by inhibitory cathodal tDCS, MEP facilitation was not abolished. These findings may give insight into the mechanisms of homeostatic plasticity in the human cerebral cortex, suggesting also more suitable applications of tDCS in a clinical setting.
Profound defects in pupillary responses to light in TRPM‐channel null mice: a role for TRPM channels in non‐image‐forming photoreception
Authors: Hughes Steven , Pothecary Carina A. , Jagannath Aarti , Foster Russell G. , Hankins Mark W. , Peirson Stuart N.
Published: January 2012

TRPM1 is a spontaneously active non‐selective cation channel that has recently been shown to play an important role in the depolarizing light responses of ON bipolar cells. Consistent with this role, mutations in the TRPM1 gene have been identified as a principal cause of congenital stationary night blindness. However, previous microarray studies have shown that Trpm1 and Trpm3 are acutely regulated by light in the eyes of mice lacking rods and cones (rd/rd cl), a finding consistent with a role in non‐image‐forming photoreception. In this study we show that pupillary light responses are significantly attenuated in both Trpm1−/− and Trpm3−/− animals. Trpm1−/− mice exhibit a profound deficit in the pupillary response that is far in excess of that observed in mice lacking rods and cones (rd/rd cl) or melanopsin, and cannot be explained by defects in bipolar cell function alone. Immunolocalization studies suggest that TRPM1 is expressed in ON bipolar cells and also a subset of cells in the ganglion cell layer, including melanopsin‐expressing photosensitive retinal ganglion cells (pRGCs). We conclude that, in addition to its role in bipolar cell signalling, TRPM1 is involved in non‐image‐forming responses to light and may perform a functional role within pRGCs. By contrast, TRPM3−/− mice display a more subtle pupillary phenotype with attenuated responses under bright light and dim light conditions. Expression of TRPM3 is detected in Muller cells and the ciliary body but is absent from pRGCs, and thus our data support an indirect role for TRPM3 in pupillary light responses.
Parallel development of orientation maps and spatial frequency selectivity in cat visual cortex
Authors: Tani Toshiki , Ribot Jérôme , O’Hashi Kazunori , Tanaka Shigeru
Published: January 2012

In an early stage of the postnatal development of cats, orientation maps mature and spatial frequency selectivity is consolidated. To investigate the time course of orientation map maturation associated with the consolidation of spatial frequency selectivity, we performed optical imaging of intrinsic signals in areas 17 and 18 of cats under the stimulation of drifting square‐wave gratings with different orientations and spatial frequencies. First, orientation maps for lower spatial frequencies emerged in the entire part of the lateral gyrus, which includes areas 17 and 18, and then these orientation maps in the posterior part of the lateral gyrus disappeared as orientation maps for higher spatial frequencies matured. Independent of age, an anteroposterior gradient of response strengths from lower to higher spatial frequencies was observed. This indicates that the regional distribution of spatial frequencies is innately determined. The size of iso‐orientation domains tended to decrease as the stimulus spatial frequency increased at every age examined. In contrast, orientation representation bias changed with age. In cats younger than 3 months, the cardinal (vertical and horizontal) orientations were represented predominantly over the oblique orientations. However, in young adult cats from 3 to 9 months old, the representation bias switched to predominantly oblique orientations. These age‐dependent changes in the orientation representation bias imply that orientation maps continue to elaborate within postnatal 1 year with the consolidation of spatial frequency selectivity. We conclude that both intrinsic and mutual factors lead to the development of orientation maps and spatial frequency selectivity.
NON‐MONETARY INCENTIVES AND OPPORTUNISTIC BEHAVIOR: EVIDENCE FROM A LABORATORY PUBLIC GOOD GAME
Authors: DUGAR SUBHASISH
Published: January 2012

This study reports data from a laboratory experiment that investigates the incentive effect of three distinct social communication schemes on free‐riding behavior. We use performance‐based approval and disapproval ratings and a linear public good game to address the above issues. The treatments vary in terms of subjects' opportunities to anonymously assign (1) only the approval ratings to other group members, (2) only the disapproval ratings to other group members, and (3) either the approval or the disapproval ratings to other group members (but not both to the same group member), after they play a standard linear public good game. Despite the Nash prediction of zero individual contribution in all three treatments, the data show that the disapproval points generate significantly higher contribution than the approval points. The treatment in which subjects could communicate either the approval or the disapproval points produces the highest level of contribution. We discuss the implications that these findings may have for efficient design of organizations. (JEL D03, H41, C72, C92)
The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse: Understanding Human Security
Authors: Inglehart Ronald F. , Norris Pippa
Published: January 2012

Since the end of the Cold War, security studies have broadened to take into account a wide range of non‐military threats ranging from poverty to environmental concerns rather than just national defence. Security scholars, backed by international organizations and a growing number of national governments, have developed the concept of ‘human security’, focusing on the welfare of ordinary people against a broad range of threats. This has aroused vigorous debate. The first part of this article proposes an analytical model of human security. The second part argues that it is important to measure how ordinary people perceive risks, moving beyond state‐centric notions of human security. New evidence is examined that draws upon survey items specially designed to monitor perceptions of human security, included for the first time in the sixth wave of the World Values Survey (WVS), with fieldwork conducted in 2010–12. The third part demonstrates that people distinguish three dimensions – national, community and personal security – and then explores some structural determinants driving these perceptions. The fourth part discusses why perceptions of human security matter, particularly for explaining cultural values and value change around the world. The conclusion argues that the shift from a narrow focus on military security toward the broader concept of human security is a natural response to the changing challenges facing developed societies, in which the cost‐benefit ratio concerning war has become negative and cultural changes have made war less acceptable. In this setting, valid measures of perceptions of human security have become essential, both to understand the determinants of the concept among ordinary people and to analyze their consequences.
Does Productivity Decline After Promotion? The Case of French Academia*
Authors: Sabatier Mareva
Published: January 2012

The present research examined the effect of promotion decisions on ex‐post productivity in French academia. As, once promotion decisions are known, most external incentives vanish for promoted candidates, their productivity was expected to decrease. This hypothesis was tested by using an original dataset and matching methods to evaluate the impact of promotion on publication scores. The robustness of the matching estimates was tested using sensitivity analysis. The results clearly show that the removal of extrinsic incentives following promotion does not lead to a fall in productivity in French academia.
Differences in Opportunities? Wage, Employment and House‐Price Effects on Migration*
Authors: Rabe Birgitta , Taylor Mark P.
Published: January 2012

Most empirical studies of individual migration choice analyse factors associated with out‐migration from an origin location. In contrast, we model the migration decision within the context of potential destinations, combining British panel data over the period 1992–2008 with other data sources. Contrary to earlier micro studies, we show that differences in house prices levels (but not growth) are important determinants of household migration for homeowners. Unemployed individuals respond to regional differences in expected individual wages, whereas the employed are more sensitive to employment opportunities. Our evidence is consistent with partners of heads of households being tied migrants.
The Distributional Effects of Tax‐benefit Policies under New Labour: A Decomposition Approach*
Authors: Bargain Olivier
Published: January 2012

I revisit the distributional effects of tax‐benefit policy reforms under New Labour using counterfactual microsimulations embedded in a Shapley decomposition of time change in inequality and poverty indices. This makes it possible to quantify the relative effect of policy changes compared to all other changes, and to check the sensitivity of this policy effect to the use of (i) income vs. price indexation, and (ii) base vs. end period data. Inequality and poverty depth would have increased, and the sharp fall in child poverty would not have occurred, had the reforms of income support and tax credits not been implemented.
The World Technology Frontier: What Can We Learn from the US States?*
Authors: Growiec Jakub
Published: January 2012

We re‐estimate the world technology frontier non‐parametrically using a dataset covering OECD country‐level data and US state‐level data on GDP per worker and the stocks of physical capital, unskilled labour and skilled labour. The auxiliary use of US state‐level data significantly reduces the upward bias in cross‐country estimates of technical efficiency, and so does allowing for imperfect substitutability between skilled and unskilled labour. We then use our adjusted estimate of the world technology frontier in a series of decompositions of productivity differences and sources of economic growth in the OECD in 1970–2000, including also ‘appropriate technology vs. efficiency’ decompositions.
The performance of social security contributory and tax‐financed pensions in Central America, and the effects of the global crisis
Authors: Mesa‐Lago Carmelo
Published: January 2012

Over the last 30 years, Latin America has pioneered structural pension reforms. This article focuses on a representative regional sample of seven Central American countries with diverse levels of development (Belize, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama) studying contributory and tax‐financed pensions as well as recent pension reforms. It comparatively assesses system performance regarding five social security principles: unity; universal coverage; adequacy of benefits; equal treatment, solidarity and gender equality; and financial sustainability. It also evaluates the impact of the world crisis on these pension systems, highlighting the differences between public and private pensions, and extracts lessons and suggests policies for the future.
Health insurance system financing reforms in the Netherlands, Germany and France: Repercussions for coverage and redistribution?
Authors: Turquet Pascale
Published: January 2012

For a number of years, the Dutch, German and French health insurance systems have been attempting to contain costs and diversify their sources of finance, which traditionally have come mainly from social contributions. Diversification may involve broader‐based public finance, as well as greater recourse to private resources and operators. In the case of the Netherlands and Germany, the reforms go hand in hand with efforts to introduce competition between health insurance bodies. In France, private complementary insurance has become indispensable for adequate access to health care. However, these measures have repercussions for redistribution, which social assistance programmes have difficulty in addressing.
Semi‐conditional cash transfers in the form of family allowances for children and adolescents in the informal economy in Argentina
Authors: Bertranou Fabio , Maurizio Roxana
Published: January 2012

In 2009, Argentina introduced a new transfer programme for children and adolescents younger than age 18 (Universal Child Allowance) that extended coverage under the contributory programme for family allowances to include families in the informal economy and families of unemployed persons. This article describes this innovative programme, compares it with similar programmes in Latin America and analyses its impact on coverage and its possible effects on the welfare of the population. The results indicate that the extension of access to this type of benefit has reduced considerably the coverage gap for the poor and indigent and supports efforts to consolidate the operations of different and poorly coordinated transfer programmes.