Attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs underlying people’s curbside household waste recycling decisions

This study examined the beliefs underlying people’s decision-making, from a theory of planned behaviour (TPB) framework, in the prediction of curbside household waste recycling. Community members in Brisbane, Australia (N = 148) completed a questionnaire assessing the belief based TPB measures of attitudinal beliefs (costs and benefits), normative beliefs (important referents), and control beliefs (barriers) in relation to engaging in curbside household waste recycling for a 2-week period. Two weeks later, participants completed self report measures of recycling behaviour for the previous fortnight. The results revealed that the attitudinal, normative, and control beliefs for people who performed higher and lower levels of recycling differed significantly. A regression analysis identified both normative and control beliefs as the main determinants of recycling behaviour. For normative beliefs, high level recyclers perceived more approval from referents such as partners, friends, and neighbours to recycle all eligible materials. In addition, the strong results for control beliefs indicated that barriers such as forgetfulness, lack of time, and laziness were rated as more likely to hamper optimal recycling performance for low level recyclers. These findings provide important applied information about beliefs to target in the development of future community recycling campaigns.

Effect of pretreatment on saccharification of sugarcane bagasse by complex and simple enzyme mixtures

Saccharification of sugarcane bagasse pretreated at the pilot-scale with different processes (in combination with steam-explosion) was evaluated. Maximum glucan conversion with Celluclast 1.5 L (15–25 FPU/g glucan) was in the following order: glycerol/HCl > HCl > H2SO4 > NaOH, with the glycerol system achieving ∼100% conversion. Surprisingly, the NaOH substrate achieved optimum saccharification with only 8 FPU/g glucan. Glucan conversions (3.6–6%) obtained with mixtures of endo-1,4-β-glucanase (EG) and β-glucosidase (βG) for the NaOH substrate were 2–6 times that of acid substrates. However, glucan conversions (15–60%) obtained with mixtures of cellobiohydrolase (CBH I) and βG on acidified glycerol substrate were 10–30% higher than those obtained for NaOH and acid substrates. The susceptibility of the substrates to enzymatic saccharification was explained by their physical and chemical attributes. Acidified glycerol pretreatment offers the opportunity to simplify the complexity of enzyme mixtures required for saccharification of lignocellulosics.

An investigation of the C77G and C772T variations within the human protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C gene for association with multiple sclerosis in an Australian population

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a common cause of neurological disability in young adults. The disease generally manifests in early to middle adulthood and causes various neurological deficits. Autoreactive T lymphocytes and their associated antigens have long been presumed important features of MS pathogenesis. The Protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor type C gene (PTPRC) encodes the T-cell receptor CD45. Variations within PTPRC have been previously associated with diseases of autoimmune origin such as type 1 diabetes mellitus and Graves' disease. We set out to investigate two variants within the PTPRC gene, C77G and C772T in subjects with MS and matched healthy controls to determine whether significant differences exist in these markers in an Australian population. We employed high resolution melt analysis (HRM) and restriction length polymorphism (RFLP) techniques to determine genotypic and allelic frequencies. Our study found no significant difference between frequencies for PTPRC C77G by either genotype (Χ2 = 0.65, P = 0.72) or allele (Χ2 = 0.48, P = 0.49). Similarly, we did not find evidence to suggest an association between PTPRC C772T by genotype (Χ2 = 1.06, P = 0.59) or allele (Χ2 = 0.20, P = 0.66). Linkage disequilibrium (LD) analysis showed strong linkage disequilibrium between the two tested markers (D' = 0.9970, SD = 0.0385). This study reveals no evidence to suggest that these markers are associated with MS in the tested Australian Caucasian population. Although the PTPRC gene has a significant role in regulating CD4+ and CD8+ autoreactive T-cells, interferon-beta responsiveness, and potentially other important processes, our study does not support a role for the two tested variants of this gene in MS susceptibility in the Australian population.

Remote measurement of diesel locomotive emission factors and particle size distributions

A technique for analysing exhaust emission plumes from unmodified locomotives under real world conditions is described and applied to the task of characterizing plumes from railway trains servicing an Australian shipping port. The method utilizes the simultaneous measurement, downwind of the railway line, of the following pollutants; particle number, PM2.5 mass fraction, SO2, NOx and CO2, with the last of these being used as an indicator of fuel combustion. Emission factors are then derived, in terms of number of particles and mass of pollutant emitted per unit mass of fuel consumed. Particle number size distributions are also presented. The practical advantages of the method are discussed including the capacity to routinely collect emission factor data for passing trains and to thereby build up a comprehensive real world database for a wide range of pollutants. Samples from 56 train movements were collected, analyzed and presented. The quantitative results for emission factors are: EF(N)=(1.7±1)×1016 kg-1, EF(PM2.5)= (1.1±0.5) g·kg-1, EF(NOx)= (28±14) g·kg-1, and EF(SO2 )= (1.4±0.4) g·kg-1. The findings are compared with comparable previously published work. Statistically significant (p<α, α=0.05) correlations within the group of locomotives sampled were found between the emission factors for particle number and both SO2 and NOx.

Cardiac parasympathetic reactivation following exercise : implications for training prescription

The objective of exercise training is to initiate desirable physiological adaptations that ultimately enhance physical work capacity. Optimal training prescription requires an individualized approach, with an appropriate balance of training stimulus and recovery and optimal periodization. Recovery from exercise involves integrated physiological responses. The cardiovascular system plays a fundamental role in facilitating many of these responses, including thermoregulation and delivery/removal of nutrients and waste products. As a marker of cardiovascular recovery, cardiac parasympathetic reactivation following a training session is highly individualized. It appears to parallel the acute/intermediate recovery of the thermoregulatory and vascular systems, as described by the supercompensation theory. The physiological mechanisms underlying cardiac parasympathetic reactivation are not completely understood. However, changes in cardiac autonomic activity may provide a proxy measure of the changes in autonomic input into organs and (by default) the blood flow requirements to restore homeostasis. Metaboreflex stimulation (e.g. muscle and blood acidosis) is likely a key determinant of parasympathetic reactivation in the short term (0–90 min post-exercise), whereas baroreflex stimulation (e.g. exercise-induced changes in plasma volume) probably mediates parasympathetic reactivation in the intermediate term (1–48 h post-exercise). Cardiac parasympathetic reactivation does not appear to coincide with the recovery of all physiological systems (e.g. energy stores or the neuromuscular system). However, this may reflect the limited data currently available on parasympathetic reactivation following strength/resistance-based exercise of variable intensity. In this review, we quantitatively analyse post-exercise cardiac parasympathetic reactivation in athletes and healthy individuals following aerobic exercise, with respect to exercise intensity and duration, and fitness/training status. Our results demonstrate that the time required for complete cardiac autonomic recovery after a single aerobic-based training session is up to 24 h following low-intensity exercise, 24–48 h following threshold-intensity exercise and at least 48 h following high-intensity exercise. Based on limited data, exercise duration is unlikely to be the greatest determinant of cardiac parasympathetic reactivation. Cardiac autonomic recovery occurs more rapidly in individuals with greater aerobic fitness. Our data lend support to the concept that in conjunction with daily training logs, data on cardiac parasympathetic activity are useful for individualizing training programmes. In the final sections of this review, we provide recommendations for structuring training microcycles with reference to cardiac parasympathetic recovery kinetics. Ultimately, coaches should structure training programmes tailored to the unique recovery kinetics of each individual.

Blog research : the 'computational turn' [Blogforschung: Der 'Computational Turn']

ForscherInnen aus Sozial- und Geisteswissenschaften interessieren sich seit nunmehr einem Jahrzehnt für Blogs, Online-Tagebücher und Online-Journale. Auch wenn die Zuwachsrate der Blogosphäre seit der Blütezeit des Bloggens in den 2000ern stagniert, bleiben Blogs doch eines der bedeutendsten Genres der internetgestützten Kommunikation. Tatsächlich ist nach der Massenabwanderung zu Facebook, Twitter und anderen erst in jüngerer Zeit entstandenen Kommunikationsmitteln eine etwas kleinere, aber umso stärker etablierte Blogosphäre von engagierten und eingeschworenen Teilnehmenden übriggeblieben. Blogs werden mittlerweile als Teil einer institutionellen, persönlichen und Gruppen-Kommunikationstrategie akzeptiert. In Stil und Inhalt liegen sie zwischen den statischeren Informationen auf konventionellen Websites und den ständig aktualisierten Facebook- und Twitter-Newsfeeds. Blogs ermöglichen es ihren AutorInnen (und deren KommentatorInnen), bestimmte Themen im Umfang von einigen hundert bis zu einigen tausend Wörtern zu durchdenken, in kürzeren Posts ins Detail zu gehen und ggf. intensiver durchdachte Texte anderswo zu publizieren. Zudem sind sie auch ein sehr flexibles Medium: Bilder, Audio-, Video- sowie andere Materialien können mühelos eingefügt werden - und natürlich auch das grundlegende Instrument des Bloggens: Hyperlinks.

MS-based metabolomics facilitates the discovery of in vivo functional small molecules with a diversity of biological contexts

In vivo small molecules as necessary intermediates are involved in numerous critical metabolic pathways and biological processes associated with many essential biological functions and events. There is growing evidence that MS-based metabolomics is emerging as a powerful tool to facilitate the discovery of functional small molecules that can better our understanding of development, infection, nutrition, disease, toxicity, drug therapeutics, gene modifications and host-pathogen interaction from metabolic perspectives. However, further progress must still be made in MS-based metabolomics because of the shortcomings in the current technologies and knowledge. This technique-driven review aims to explore the discovery of in vivo functional small molecules facilitated by MS-based metabolomics and to highlight the analytic capabilities and promising applications of this discovery strategy. Moreover, the biological significance of the discovery of in vivo functional small molecules with different biological contexts is also interrogated at a metabolic perspective.

Timing and distribution of protein ingestion during prolonged recovery from resistance exercise alters myofibrillar protein synthesis

Quantity and timing of protein ingestion are major factors regulating myofibrillar protein synthesis (MPS). However, the effect of specific ingestion patterns on MPS throughout a 12 h period is unknown. We determined how different distributions of protein feeding during 12 h recovery after resistance exercise affects anabolic responses in skeletal muscle. Twenty-four healthy trained males were assigned to three groups (n = 8/group) and undertook a bout of resistance exercise followed by ingestion of 80 g of whey protein throughout 12 h recovery in one of the following protocols: 8 × 10 g every 1.5 h (PULSE); 4 × 20 g every 3 h (intermediate: INT); or 2 × 40 g every 6 h (BOLUS). Muscle biopsies were obtained at rest and after 1, 4, 6, 7 and 12 h post exercise. Resting and post-exercise MPS (l-[ring-(13)C6] phenylalanine), and muscle mRNA abundance and cell signalling were assessed. All ingestion protocols increased MPS above rest throughout 1-12 h recovery (88-148%, P < 0.02), but INT elicited greater MPS than PULSE and BOLUS (31-48%, P < 0.02). In general signalling showed a BOLUS>INT>PULSE hierarchy in magnitude of phosphorylation. MuRF-1 and SLC38A2 mRNA were differentially expressed with BOLUS. In conclusion, 20 g of whey protein consumed every 3 h was superior to either PULSE or BOLUS feeding patterns for stimulating MPS throughout the day. This study provides novel information on the effect of modulating the distribution of protein intake on anabolic responses in skeletal muscle and has the potential to maximize outcomes of resistance training for attaining peak muscle mass.

Learning to Teach Primary Science

Many primary teachers and preservice teachers experience a fear of science that translates into a fear of teaching science. Consequently, primary students may not receive a full science education curriculum, particularly as the teaching of science is avoided by many primary teachers, as shown in an Australian report by Goodrum, Hackling and Rennie ( 2001 ). Preservice teachers need to develop confi dence to teach primary science, by understanding what science is, knowing how to plan and assess science learning, and teaching science skills and knowledge in ways that engage students in science education.

A vibrational spectroscopic study of the silicate mineral ardennite-(As)

We have used a combination of scanning electron microscopy with EDX and vibrational spectroscopy to study the mineral ardennite-(As). The mineral ardennite-(As) of accepted formula Mn2þ 4 (Al,Mg)6(Si3O10)(SiO4)2(AsO4,VO4)(OH)6 is a silicate mineral which may contain arsenate and/or vanadates anions. Because of the oxyanions present, the mineral lends itself to analysis by Raman and infrared spectroscopy. Qualitative chemical analysis shows a homogeneous phase, composed by Si, Mn, Al and As. Ca and V were also observed in partial substitution for Mn and As. Raman bands at 1197, 1225, 1287 and 1394 cm-1 are assigned to SiO stretching vibrations. The strong Raman bands at 779 and 877 cm-1 are assigned to the AsO3- 4 antisymmetric and symmetric stretching vibrations. The Raman band at 352 cm-1 is assigned to the m2 symmetric bending vibration. The series of Raman bands between 414 and 471 cm-1 are assigned to the m4 out of plane bending modes of the AsO3-4 units. Intense Raman bands observed at 301 and 314 cm-1 are attributed to the MnO stretching and bending vibrations. Raman bands at 3041, 3149, 3211 and 3298 cm-1 are attributed to the stretching vibrations of OH units. There is vibrational spectroscopic evidence for the presence of water adsorbed on the ardennite-(As) surfaces.

Non-invasive clinical measurement of the viscoelastic properties of tendon using acoustic wave transmission

Background. In isotropic materials, the speed of acoustic wave propagation is governed by the bulk modulus and density. For tendon, which is a structural composite of fluid and collagen, however, there is some anisotropy requiring an adjustment for Poisson's ratio. This paper explores these relationships using data collected, in vivo, on human Achilles tendon and then compares estimates of elastic modulus and hysteresis against published values from in vitro mechanical tests. Methods. Measurements using conventional B-model ultrasound imaging, inverse dynamics and acoustic transmission techniques were used to determine dimensions, loading conditions and longitudinal speed of sound in the Achilles tendon during a series of isometric plantar flexion exercises against body weight. Upper and lower bounds for speed of sound versus tensile stress in the tendon were then modelled and estimates of the elastic modulus and hysteresis of the Achilles tendon derived. Results. Axial speed of sound varied between 1850 and 2090 ms-1 with a non-linear, asymptotic dependency on the level of tensile stress (5-35 MPa) in the tendon. Estimates derived for the elastic modulus of the Achilles tendon ranged between 1-2 GPa. Hysteresis derived from models of the stress-strain relationship, ranged from 3-11%. Discussion. Estimates of elastic modulus agree closely with those previously reported from direct measurements obtained via mechanical tensile tests on major weight bearing tendons in vitro [1,2]. Hysteresis derived from models of the stress-strain relationship is consistent with direct measures from various mamalian tendon (7-10%) but is lower than previous estimates in human tendon (17-26%) [3]. This non-invasive method would appear suitable for monitoring changes in tendon properties during dynamic sporting activities.

The increasing cost of healthy food

OBJECTIVE: To assess changes in the cost and availability of a standard basket of healthy food items (the Healthy Food Access Basket [HFAB]) in Queensland. METHODS: Analysis of five cross-sectional surveys (1998, 2000, 2001, 2004 and 2006) describes changes over time. Eighty-nine stores in five remoteness categories were surveyed during May 2006. For the first time a sampling framework based on randomisation of towns throughout the state was applied and the survey was conducted by Queensland Treasury. RESULTS: Compared with the costs in major cities, in 2006 the mean cost of the HFAB was $107.81 (24.2%) higher in very remote stores in Queensland, but $145.57 (32.6%) higher in stores more than 2,000 kilometres from Brisbane. Over six years the cost of the HFAB has increased by around 50% ($148.87) across Queensland and, where data was available, by more than the cost of less healthy alternatives. The Consumer Price Index for food in Brisbane increased by 32.5% over the same period. CONCLUSIONS AND IMPLICATIONS: Australians, no matter where they live, need access to affordable, healthy food. Issues of food security in the face of rising food costs are of concern particularly in the current global economic downturn. There is an urgent need to nationally monitor, but also sustainably address the factors affecting the price of healthy foods, particularly for vulnerable groups who suffer a disproportionate burden of poor health.

Developing cultural responsiveness in environmental design students through digital storytelling and photovoice

As the Latino population in the United States grows, it will become increasingly important for undergraduate students in environmental design and related disciplines to become more culturally responsive and learn how to understand and address challenges faced by population groups, such as Latino youth. To this end, we involved environmental design undergraduate students at the University of Colorado in a service-learning class to mentor Latino youth in the creation of multimedia narratives using photovoice and digital storytelling techniques. The introduction of technology was used as a bridge between the two groups and to provide a platform for the Latino youth to reveal their community experiences. Based on focus group results, we describe the impact on the undergraduate students and provide recommendations for similar programs that can promote cultural responsiveness through the use of digital technology and prepare environmental design students to work successfully in increasingly diverse communities.

The complete nucleotide sequence of subterranean clover mottle virus

The complete nucleotide sequence of Subterranean clover mottle virus (SCMoV) genomic RNA has been determined. The SCMoV genome is 4,258 nucleotides in length. It shares most nucleotide and amino acid sequence identity with the genome of Lucerne transient streak virus (LTSV). SCMoV RNA encodes four overlapping open reading frames and has a genome organisation similar to that of Cocksfoot mottle virus (CfMV). ORF1 and ORF4 are predicted to encode single proteins. ORF2 is predicted to encode two proteins that are derived from a -1 translational frameshift between two overlapping reading frames (ORF2a and ORF2b). A search of amino acid databases did not find a significant match for ORF1 and the function of this protein remains unclear. ORF2a contains a motif typical of chymotrypsin-like serine proteases and ORF2b has motifs characteristically present in positive-stranded RNA-dependent RNA polymerases. ORF4 is likely to be expressed from a subgenomic RNA and encodes the viral coat protein. The ORF2a/ORF2b overlapping gene expression strategy used by SCMoV and CfMV is similar to that of the poleroviruses and differ from that of other published sobemoviruses. These results suggest that the sobemoviruses could now be divided into two distinct subgroups based on those that express the RNA-dependent RNA polymerase from a single, in-frame polyprotein, and those that express it via a -1 translational frameshifting mechanism.

Prevalence of risk factors for undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnoea is high in truck drivers on UK roads

Objectives To determine the prevalence of symptoms and risk factors of obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) in truck drivers at a UK large truck stop. Methods Over a 5 day period, truck drivers completed a short questionnaire at a major UK ‘truck stop’. The questionnaire asked about OSA rist factors and symptoms, and included the Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS). Additionally, measurements of height, weight and collar size were taken. 148 truck drivers participated and within this random group the risk factors of OSA that were looked for were:men age over 40 y, obesity, parge neck circumference, smoking, high ESS and bed partner reporting snoring with witnessed apnoeas. Results Our sample were all men, with 82% aged over 40 y. 47% were obese (compared with 23% for UK men in general) and average neck circumference was 42 cm (compared with 38 cm for UK men in general – Martin et al 1997). 31% smoked (vs 21% for general population), and ESS averaged 2.1 points higher than expected for a healthy population (Johns et al 1997). Snoring was quite evident at 57% (compared wth 40% for men in general) and witnessed apnoeas were almost double (7%) compared with 3.8% given by Ohayon et al (1997) generally for men. Conclusion 8 key symptoms and risk factors of OSA have been found to be prevalent in a sample of truck drivers on UK roads, and to greater extent that for estimates in the general male population. Bed partners of truck drivers reporting witnessed apnoeas strongly suggests this group has a high potential for undiagnosed OSA. OSA sufferers are known to be at high risk of causing road traffi c accidents. This, together with the large size of trucks, then the potential for serious road crashes is great. Truck drivers, especially those who are obese, ought to be a high priority population for OSA screening.