bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sportfisheries, conservation and sustainable livelihoods: a multidisciplinary guide to developing best practice
Authors: Barnett Adam , Abrantes Kátya G , Baker Ronald , Diedrich Amy S , Farr Marina , Kuilboer Alf , Mahony Tracey , McLeod Ian , Moscardo Gianna , Prideaux Murray , Stoeckl Natalie , van Luyn Ariella , Sheaves Marcus
Published: December 2015

Ecotourism ventures in developing countries are often among the few alternatives for enhancing sustainable livelihoods without altering traditional ways of life. The best way forward is to continually develop and implement best practice guidelines and, in particular, to flexibly develop them to suit individual cases. We conduct a multidisciplinary assessment of best practice guidelines required to develop and sustain sportfishing tourism in developing countries, while enhancing local livelihoods and promoting environmental stewardship. In general, best practice guidelines should be developed around a sustainable livelihood framework that includes short‐term coping mechanisms and longer‐term capacity building. Sportfishing development that conforms to ecological and socially orientated criteria, founded on site‐specific research that captures local environmental and social complexities, has the potential to provide mutual benefits to tourists and local people, fuelling community development and enhancing the cultural experience of tourists. Best practice guidelines for sportfishing that do not address these dimensions are unlikely to result in a viable industry. Given the current interest and growth of sportfishing in developing countries, the proposed guidelines can help a range of end users manage, conserve and maximize livelihood benefits from their fishery.
Is risk consistent across tier‐based harvest control rule management systems? A comparison of four case‐studies
Authors: Dichmont Catherine M , Punt André E , Dowling Natalie , De Oliveira José A A , Little Lorne R , Sporcic Miriana , Fulton Elizabeth , Gorton Rebecca , Klaer Neil , Haddon Malcolm , Smith David C
Published: December 2015

There can be substantial differences in data quality and quantity among fished species. Consequently, the quality and type of assessments can also vary substantially. However, all species, especially those that are targeted, need to be managed. Several jurisdictions have developed hierarchical tier systems that categorize stocks based on, for example, the data available for assessment purposes and/or the extent to which quantities on which management advice is based can be estimated. Four case‐studies (Australia's Southern and Eastern Scalefish and Shark Fishery, the USA west coast groundfishery, the USA Alaskan crab fishery and EU fisheries) are used to contrast the types of hierarchical tier systems available, and to assess the extent to which each system constrains risk to be equivalent among the tiers (termed risk equivalency). Only the Australian system explicitly aims to achieve risk equivalency. However, this intent has not been fully operationalized. Our review reveals that best practice is not to define tiers simply on data availability, but also on what the assessments based on those data are capable of estimating. In addition, clearly differentiating the quantification of uncertainty from how decision‐makers wish to address that uncertainty would simplify justification of buffers (the gap between the assessment‐produced target catch or effort and the final management decision that accounts for uncertainty and risk). Risk equivalency can be achieved using management strategy evaluation to select the values for control variables, which determine the buffer given the uncertainty associated with the assessment.
Temperature‐based targeting in a multispecies fishery under climate change
Authors: Dunn Daniel C. , Moxley Jerry H. , Halpin Patrick N.
Published: December 2015

Temperature controls important physiological processes in fish and determines aspects of their niches. In an effort to inform selective fishing and spatiotemporal management in the U.S. Northeast Multispecies fishery, we used 16 years of data from the Northeast Fisheries Science Center Spring and Fall Scientific Trawl Surveys to determine if bottom temperature can be used to differentiate the distribution of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) from other species within the fishery management plan (FMP). We identified two separate regimes in spring temperatures and used empirical cumulative distribution functions to calculate biomass availability by temperature for each species. We applied a bagged approach to find optimum thermal threshold values that maximize the difference in cod biomass from each of the other species. For our study area, 38% to 54% of the species considered were well separated from cod by temperature in spring, whereas only 17% were separable in the fall. This study suggests that temperature targeting can be used seasonally to separate cod from many other species in the FMP including top catches and no‐retention species. The use of temperature targeting may allow fishermen to better meet multiple quotas while avoiding choke species. Our results also suggested increasing thermal overlap between cod and species inhabiting higher median temperatures (e.g., spiny dogfish, Squalus acanthias) under the current warming temperature regime. These results indicate that the ability to selectively fish in the US Northeast Multispecies fishery will become more difficult under a warming ocean.
Spatio‐temporal variation of biotic factors underpins contemporary range dynamics of congeners
Authors: Naujokaitis‐Lewis Ilona , Fortin Marie‐Josée
Published: December 2015

Species’ ranges are complex often exhibiting multidirectional shifts over space and time. Despite the strong fingerprint of recent historical climate change on species’ distributions, biotic factors such as loss of vegetative habitat and the presence of potential competitors constitute important yet often overlooked drivers of range dynamics. Furthermore, short‐term changes in environmental conditions can influence the underlying processes of local extinction and local colonization that drive range shifts, yet are rarely considered at broad scales. We used dynamic state‐space occupancy models to test multiple hypotheses of the relative importance of major drivers of range shifts of Golden‐winged Warblers (Vermivora chrysoptera) and Blue‐winged Warblers (V. cyanoptera) between 1983 and 2012 across North America: warming temperatures; habitat changes; and occurrence of congeneric species, used here as proxy for biotic interactions. Dynamic occupancies for both species were most influenced by spatial relative to temporal variation in temperature and habitat. However, temporal variation in temperature anomalies and biotic interactions remained important. The two biotic factors considered, habitat change and biotic interactions, had the largest relative effect on estimated extinction rates followed by abiotic temperature anomalies. For the Golden‐winged Warbler, the predicted presence of the Blue‐winged Warbler, a hypothesized competitor, most influenced extinction probabilities, contributing to evidence supporting its role in site‐level species replacement. Given the overall importance of biotic factors on range‐wide dynamic occupancies, their consideration alongside abiotic factors should not be overlooked. Our results suggest that warming compounds the negative effect of habitat loss emphasizing species’ need for habitat to adapt to a changing climate. Notably, even closely related species exhibited individual responses to abiotic and biotic factors considered.
Comparison of ingrowth core and sequential soil core methods for estimating belowground net primary production in grass–clover swards
Authors: Chen S. , Lin S. , Reinsch T. , Loges R. , Hasler M. , Taube F.
Published: December 2015

Estimation of belowground net primary production (BNPP) is crucial for prediction of grassland soil organic carbon sequestration, but there are high coefficients of variation (CV) among methods of estimation. We compared accuracy and precision of two variations of the traditional soil core method and three of the ingrowth core method, over 2 years on grass–white clover swards in Germany. The ingrowth core method (5‐ to 9‐week ingrowth period) provided the most accurate BNPP estimate (471 g m−2) with the highest precision (CV: 31%), whereas the two soil core approaches resulted in underestimation and high error. Comparing results with other grassland studies, we found that reliability of the ingrowth core method was influenced by ingrowth period and sward rooting pattern related to grass phenological stages, while the precision was determined by ingrowth period and grassland productivity. We therefore recommend using the ingrowth core method for managed grasslands where belowground productivity is relatively high and installation disturbance is likely to be negligible. Using a 6‐ to 8‐week ingrowth period, the method delivers reliable and feasible BNPP estimates for temperate managed grasslands which can be applied to long‐term soil carbon budget simulation. Results from our work and other studies also indicated that standing root biomass masks seasonal pattern of rooting due to synchrony between root birth and death. The soil core method is likely to lead to underestimates and higher errors than the ingrowth core methods and thus should be avoided.
Evaluation of bond strength in single‐cone fillings of canals with different cross‐sections
Authors: Pereira R. D. , Brito‐Júnior M. , Leoni G. B. , Estrela C. , de Sousa‐Neto M. D.
Published: December 2015

Aim

To evaluate the effect of root canal cross‐sectional shape on single‐cone root filling bond strength, as well as to determine the percentage of gutta‐percha‐filled areas (PGFA) and sealer‐filled areas (PSFA), establishing a relationship between these variables.

Methodology

Distal roots of mandibular molars were selected using microcomputed tomography imaging and allocated into three groups (n = 10) according to canal shape: round, oval and long oval. The canals were prepared with an R40 reciprocating instrument and filled with matching single‐cone gutta‐percha and AH Plus sealer. Two 1‐mm‐thick dentine slices were obtained from each third of each root. PGFA and PSFA were calculated in digital images (x25 magnification) of each slice. Next, the slices were subjected to a push‐out test and the failure modes (adhesive, cohesive or mixed) were assessed. Data were analysed using parametric tests (P < 0.05).

Results

In the coronal (2.17 ± 0.56MPa) and middle thirds (1.78 ± 0.45MPa), the round canals were associated with higher bond strength values (P < 0.01), with no difference between the groups for the apical third (P > 0.05). Adhesive and mixed failures predominated in round canals, whilst cohesive failures were more frequent in oval and long oval canals. Round canals had significantly higher PGFA and lower PSFA than all other groups (P = 0.000). The PGFA and PSFA had a positive (r = 0.521, P = 0.000) and a negative (r = −0.523, P = 0.000) correlation with bond strength, respectively.

Conclusion

Bond strength values of gutta‐percha and sealer were affected by canal shape. Higher percentage of gutta‐percha‐filled area resulted in higher bond strength to dentine.
Patency of Litomosoides sigmodontis infection depends on Toll‐like receptor 4 whereas Toll‐like receptor 2 signalling influences filarial‐specific CD4+ T‐cell responses
Authors: Rodrigo Maria B. , Schulz Sandy , Krupp Vanessa , Ritter Manuel , Wiszniewsky Katharina , Arndts Kathrin , Tamadaho Ruth S. E. , Endl Elmar , Hoerauf Achim , Layland Laura E.
Published: December 2015

BALB/c mice develop a patent state [release of microfilariae (Mf), the transmission life‐stage, into the periphery] when exposed to the rodent filariae Litomosoides sigmodontis. Interestingly, only a portion of the infected mice become patent, which reflects the situation in human individuals infected with Wuchereria bancrofti. Since those individuals had differing filarial‐specific profiles, this study compared differences in immune responses between Mf+ and Mf– infected BALB/c mice. We demonstrate that cultures of total spleen or mediastinal lymph node cells from Mf+ mice produce significantly more interleukin‐5 (IL‐5) to filarial antigens but equal levels of IL‐10 when compared with Mf– mice. However, isolated CD4+ T cells from Mf+ mice produced significantly higher amounts of all measured cytokines, including IL‐10, when compared with CD4+ T‐cell responses from Mf– mice. Since adaptive immune responses are influenced by triggering the innate immune system we further studied the immune profiles and parasitology in infected Toll‐like receptor‐2‐deficient (TLR2−/−) and TLR4−/− BALB/c mice. Ninety‐three per cent of L. sigmodontis‐exposed TLR4−/− BALB/c mice became patent (Mf+) although worm numbers remained comparable to those in Mf+ wild‐type controls. Lack of TLR2 had no influence on patency outcome or worm burden but infected Mf+ mice had significantly lower numbers of Foxp3+ regulatory T cells and dampened peripheral immune responses. Interestingly, in vitro culturing of CD4+ T cells from infected wild‐type mice with granulocyte–macrophage colony‐stimulating factor‐derived TLR2−/− dendritic cells resulted in an overall diminished cytokine profile to filarial antigens. Hence, triggering TLR4 or TLR2 during chronic filarial infection has a significant impact on patency and efficient CD4+ T‐cell responses, respectively.
Employment regulation, game theory and weak employee voice in liberal economies
Authors: DOBBINS Tony , DUNDON Tony , CULLINANE Niall , HICKLAND Eugene , DONAGHEY Jimmy
Published: December 2015

This article analyses the impact of information and consultation regulations – specifically the European Information and Consultation Directive – on worker participation or “employee voice” in liberal market economies (LMEs), providing both empirical and theoretical insights to complement existing research on the Directive. Using game theory and the prisoner's dilemma framework, and empirical data from 16 case studies, the authors explain why national legislation implementing the Directive is largely ineffective in diffusing mutual‐gains cooperation in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Three theoretical explanatory propositions advance understanding of the policy impact of information and consultation regulations in LMEs.
Symptoms of autism spectrum disorder and anxiety: shared familial transmission and cross‐assortative mating
Authors: Duvekot Jorieke , van der Ende Jan , Constantino John N. , Verhulst Frank C. , Greaves‐Lord Kirstin
Published: December 2015

Background

In order to shed more light on the frequent co‐occurrence of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and anxiety in children, the aims of the study were (a) to examine whether ASD and anxiety share familial transmission indicated by cross‐symptom associations between parental and children's symptoms (e.g., parental anxiety predicting children's ASD) in addition to associations for similar symptoms; (b) to investigate the possibility that cross‐assortative mating (i.e., whether ASD symptoms in one parent are positively associated with anxiety symptoms in the other parent) increases the risk for both ASD and anxiety in children.

Method

In 231 families of clinically referred children, parents rated both their own and the other parent's ASD and anxiety symptoms and one parent those of the index child and siblings (n = 447, aged 2.5–18 years). ASD symptoms were assessed using the Social Responsiveness Scale (SRS‐2) and anxiety symptoms using the Achenbach System of Empirically Based Assessment (ASEBA) instruments.

Results

Parental ASD and anxiety symptoms predicted similar symptoms in children, dependent on the informant type. Additionally, parental anxiety symptoms across both self‐report and informant‐report predicted children's ASD symptoms and maternal self‐reported ASD symptoms predicted children's anxiety symptoms. ASD and anxiety symptoms were correlated within parents, but we found only one cross‐symptom association between parents.

Conclusions

Cross‐symptom associations between parental and children's ASD and anxiety symptoms suggest shared familial transmission of ASD and anxiety, but further research is needed to clarify the underlying mechanisms. Cross‐assortative mating does not seem a likely explanation for the co‐occurrence of ASD and anxiety in children.
Efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes stratified by body mass index: A subgroup analysis of five randomized clinical trials
Authors: Kashiwagi Atsunori , Yoshida Satoshi , Nakamura Ichiro , Kazuta Kenichi , Ueyama Eiji , Takahashi Hideyuki , Satomi Hayato , Kosakai Yoshinori , Kawamuki Kosei
Published: December 2015

Aims/Introduction

The influence of overweight/obesity on the clinical efficacy and safety of sodium‐glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors is unclear. We carried out a pooled analysis to examine the impact of body mass index on the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin.

Materials and Methods

Patient‐level data were pooled for five Japanese double‐blind trials (NCT00621868, NCT01057628, NCT01135433, NCT01225081 and NCT01242215) in which patients were randomized to ipragliflozin or a placebo as monotherapy, or in combination with metformin, pioglitazone or a sulfonylurea. Outcomes included the changes in hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose, bodyweight and treatment‐emergent adverse events. Patients were divided into four body mass index categories.

Results

Hemoglobin A1c, fasting plasma glucose and bodyweight decreased significantly in the ipragliflozin group compared with the placebo group in all body mass index categories, and in the total cohort (all P < 0.001). Hemoglobin A1c did not improve in 11.2 and 69.2% of patients in the ipragliflozin and placebo groups, respectively. The change in hemoglobin A1c was weakly correlated with the change in bodyweight in all patients (r = 0.136, P = 0.002). Regarding laboratory variables, the placebo‐subtracted difference tended to be greater in patients with higher body mass index for aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, γ‐glutamyl transpeptidase and uric acid. The incidences of treatment‐emergent adverse events were similar between the ipragliflozin and placebo groups in all patients combined and in the four body mass index categories.

Conclusions

These results show that the efficacy and safety of ipragliflozin are not influenced by obesity/overweight in Japanese patients.
Androgen deprivation therapy is associated with diabetes: Evidence from meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Huimin , Sun Xiangyu , Zhao Lin , Chen Xiuju , Zhao Jinsheng
Published: December 2015

Aims/Introduction

There is still no obvious evidence proving that androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) would increase the risk of diabetes. To determine if ADT is associated with diabetes in men with prostate cancer, we carried out the present study.

Materials and Methods

We systematically searched Medline, Embase and the Cochrane Library Central Register through 2014. Studies comparing ADT vs control aimed at treating prostate cancer reporting diabetes as outcome were included. Data were extracted independently by two reviewers. This meta‐analysis was reported based on the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analyses checklist. Observational studies were evaluated through the Meta‐analysis Of Observational Studies in Epidemiology checklist.

Results

Eight studies were identified with 65,695 ADT users and 91,893 non‐ADT users. The pooled incidence of diabetes was 39% higher in ADT groups. A significant association was observed in the overall analysis (risk ratio [RR] 1.39, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.27–1.53; P < 0.001). In subgroup analyses, diabetes was found to be significantly associated with gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) alone (RR 1.45, 95% CI 1.36–1.54; P < 0.001), GnRH plus oral antiandrogen (RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.01–1.93; P = 0.04) and orchiectomy (RR 1.34, 95% CI 1.20–1.50; P < 0.001), but not with antiandrogen alone (RR 1.33, 95% CI 0.75–2.36; P = 0.33). Diabetes was strongly related to long duration of ADT (RR 1.43, 95% CI 1.22–1.68; P < 0.001), and was slightly associated with short duration of ADT (RR 1.29, 95% CI 1.12–1.49; P = 0.0004).

Conclusions

ADT, especially long duration (>6 months) of this treatment, GnRH alone, GnRH plus antiandrogen and orchiectomy can increase the incidence of diabetes.
Hybrid female mate choice as a species isolating mechanism: environment matters
Authors: Schmidt E. M. , Pfennig K. S.
Published: December 2015

A fundamental goal of biology is to understand how new species arise and are maintained. Female mate choice is potentially critical to the speciation process: mate choice can prevent hybridization and thereby generate reproductive isolation between potentially interbreeding groups. Yet, in systems where hybridization occurs, mate choice by hybrid females might also play a key role in reproductive isolation by affecting hybrid fitness and contributing to patterns of gene flow between species. We evaluated whether hybrid mate choice behaviour could serve as such an isolating mechanism using spadefoot toad hybrids ofSpea multiplicataandSpea bombifrons. We assessed the mate preferences of female hybrid spadefoot toads for sterile hybrid males vs. pure‐species males in two alternative habitat types in which spadefoots breed: deep or shallow water. We found that, in deep water, hybrid females preferred the calls of sterile hybrid males to those ofS. multiplicatamales. Thus, maladaptive hybrid mate preferences could serve as an isolating mechanism. However, in shallow water, the preference for hybrid male calls was not expressed. Moreover, hybrid females did not prefer hybrid calls to those ofS. bombifronsin either environment. Because hybrid female mate choice was context‐dependent, its efficacy as a reproductive isolating mechanism will depend on both the environment in which females choose their mates as well as the relative frequencies of males in a given population. Thus, reproductive isolation between species, as well as habitat specific patterns of gene flow between species, might depend critically on the nature of hybrid mate preferences and the way in which they vary across environments.
Local human pressures influence gene flow in a hybridizingDaphniaspecies complex
Authors: Alric B. , Möst M. , Domaizon I. , Pignol C. , Spaak P. , Perga M.‐E.
Published: December 2015

Anthropogenic environmental changes are considered critical drivers of the genetic structure of populations and communities through, for example, the facilitation of introgressive hybridization between syntopic species. However, the mechanisms by which environmental perturbations trigger changes in the genetic structure of populations and communities, such as the processes that determine the directionality of hybridization and patterns of mitochondrial introgression over many generations, remain largely unexplored. In this study, the changes in genetic structure of hybridizing members of theDaphnia longispinaspecies complex were reconstructed over the last 100 years for three large temperate lakes under strong anthropogenic pressures via palaeogenetic analyses of resting egg banks. Drastic changes in the genetic structure of theDaphniacommunity, associated with hybridization events betweenD. longispinaandD. galeataand subsequent introgression, were detected in Lakes Geneva and Bourget. In Lake Bourget, these changes were induced by the successful establishment ofD. galeatawith rising phosphorus levels and reinforced by the sensitivity ofD. longispinato fish predation pressure. In Lake Geneva, the pattern of hybridization during eutrophication is more likely a function of the original taxonomic composition of the species complex in this lake. Lakes seem to require at least a meso‐oligotrophic status to allowD. galeatapopulations to establish and accordingly noD. galeatagenotypes were found in the egg bank of oligotrophic Lake Annecy. In contrast to the generally assumed pattern of unidirectional hybridization in this species complex, bidirectional hybridization was recorded in Lakes Geneva and Bourget. Our results also demonstrate complex genetic trajectories within this species complex and highlight the irreversibility of changes in the genotypic architecture of populations driven by local human pressures. Finally, we show that extensive hybridization and introgression do not necessarily result in a large and homogenous hybrid swarm.
The wheat MYB‐related transcription factor TaMYB72 promotes flowering in rice
Authors: Zhang Lichao , Liu Guoxiang , Jia Jizeng , Zhao Guangyao , Xia Chuan , Zhang Lina , Li Fu , Zhang Qiang , Dong Chunhao , Gao Shuangcheng , Han Longzhi , Guo Xiuping , Zhang Xin , Wu Jinxia , Liu Xu , Kong Xiuying
Published: December 2015

Through large‐scale transformation analyses, TaMYB72 was identified as a flowering time regulator in wheat. TaMYB72 is a MYB family transcription factor localized to the nucleus. Three TaMYB72 homologs, TaMYB72‐A, TaMYB72‐B and TaMYB72‐D, cloned from hexaploid wheat were mapped to the short arm of the group 6 chromosomes. Under the long‐day conditions, over‐expression of the TaMYB72 in rice shortened the flowering time by approximately 12 d. Expression analyses suggest that TaMYB72 may function through up‐regulation of florigen genes Hd3a and RFT1.
To Refer or Not to Refer: Exploring Family Therapists' Beliefs and Practices Related to the Referral of Lesbian, Gay, and Bisexual Clients
Authors: McGeorge Christi R. , Stone Carlson Thomas , Farrell Molly
Published: December 2015

This study explored how negative beliefs toward lesbian, gay, and bisexual (LGB) individuals and LGB clinical competence influenced family therapists' beliefs and practices regarding referring based on the sexual orientation of the client. The sample consisted of 741 experienced clinicians. The results of this study indicated that the majority of the participants believe it is ethical to refer LGB clients; however, most had never made such a referral. Furthermore, participants who had referred based solely on the client's sexual orientation reported higher levels of negative beliefs toward LGB individuals and lower levels of LGB clinical competence. Finally, negative beliefs toward LGB persons not only predicted the practice of referring, but also the belief that it is ethical to refer an LGB client.
Prices, Profits, and Preference Dependence
Authors: Chen Yongmin , Riordan Michael H.
Published: December 2015

We develop a new approach to discrete choice demand for differentiated products, using copulas to separate the marginal distribution of consumer values for product varieties from their dependence relationship, and apply it to the issue of how preference dependence affects market outcomes in symmetric multiproduct industries. We show that greater dependence lowers prices and profits under certain conditions, suggesting that preference dependence is a distinct indicator of product differentiation. We also find new sufficient conditions for the symmetric multiproduct monopoly and the symmetric single‐product oligopoly prices to be above or below the single‐product monopoly price.
Welfare Analysis of Regulating Mobile Termination Rates in the U.K.
Authors: Harbord David , Hoernig Steffen
Published: December 2015

We develop a calibrated simulation model of the U.K. mobile telephony market and use it to analyze the effects of reducing mobile termination rates (MTR's) as recommended by the European Commission. We find that reducing MTR's is likely to increase both consumer surplus and networks' profits. Depending on the strength of call externalities (i.e., benefits to the recipient of a call), social welfare may increase by as much as £1 billion to £4.6 billion per year. We also use the model to estimate the welfare effects of the 2010 merger between Orange and T‐Mobile and find that the merger led to a substantial reduction in consumer surplus.
The Informational Role of Product Trade‐Ins for Pricing Durable Goods
Authors: Kwon Ohjin , Dukes Anthony J. , Siddarth S. , Silva‐Risso Jorge M.
Published: December 2015

This research theorizes that sellers of durable goods can utilize inferences about the buyer's willingness to pay based not only on her decision to trade in the old good but also on its characteristics. We find empirical support for this theory using transaction data for new car purchases. The results support the notion that dealers infer a higher willingness to pay and charge higher prices to consumers who trade in a used vehicle than to those who do not. We also find that dealers charge even higher prices to those consumers who trade in used cars that are similar to the new one.
Formulation and evaluation of sublingual delivery of piroxicam using thermosensitive polymer with an inverted Franz diffusion cell
Authors: Sivaraman Arunprasad , Banga Ajay K
Published: December 2015

Objectives

The aim of the study was to prepare a sublingual formulation for piroxicam using a thermosensitive polymer and to evaluate its permeation through porcine sublingual mucosa.

Methods

Formulation technique utilized the transition property of poloxamer from solution state at room temperature to gel state at oromucosal temperature (37 °C). The permeation of the drug was evaluated using an inverted Franz diffusion cell technique that allowed the dosage form to be directly applied onto the substrate with required volume of saliva. The formulation was characterized for microscopy of the piroxicam crystals, sol–gel transition property and in-vitro diffusion study.

Key findings

Poloxamer-based formulation enhanced solubility and increased permeability of the piroxicam.

Conclusion

Poloxamer formulation with 0.1% w/w piroxicam delivered a cumulative amount of 11.99 ± 7.82 and 11.23 ± 1.79 μg/cm2, while non-poloxamer formulation delivered 3.57 ± 2.20 and 4.60 ± 6.90 μg/cm2 with 0.1 and 0.5 ml artificial saliva, respectively, through porcine sublingual tissue in 6 h. A similar delivery profile was observed for 0.05% w/w piroxicam formulation as well.
When it gets cold, plant size matters – a comment on treeline
Authors: Körner Christian
Published: December 2015

Many questions in vegetation science related to species ranges and species performance could be resolved by appropriate bioclimatological data. In the case of small‐stature plants, such as herbs and grasses, but also seedlings of trees, weather station data are inappropriate to describe their life conditions – an important point not only in empirical research, but also for modellers.
A significant effect of the killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor ligand human leucocyte antigen‐C on fibrosis progression in chronic C hepatitis with or without liver transplantation
Authors: Buhler Stéphane , Giostra Emiliano , Gbame Corinne , de Rham Casimir , Mullhaupt Beat , Dufour Jean‐François , Majno Pietro , Negro Francesco , Bochud Pierre‐Yves , Villard Jean ,   the Swiss Hepatitis C Cohort Study (SCCS) and Swiss Transplant Cohort Study (STCS)
Published: December 2015

Background & Aims

The interaction of killer cell immunoglobulin–like receptors with their human leucocyte antigen ligands drives the activation and inhibition of natural killer cells. Natural killer cells could be implicated in the development of liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C.

Methods

We analysed 206 non‐transplanted and 53 liver transplanted patients, selected according to their Metavir fibrosis stage. Several variables such as the number of activator killer cell immunoglobulin–like receptors or the human leucocyte antigen ligands were considered in multinomial and logistic regression models. Possible confounding variables were also investigated.

Results

The killer cell immunoglobulin–like receptors were not significant predictors of the fibrosis stage. Conversely, a significant reduction of the human leucocyte antigen‐C1C2 genotype was observed in the most advanced fibrosis stage group (F4) in both cohorts. Furthermore, the progression rate of fibrosis was almost 10 times faster in the subgroup of patients after liver transplantation, and human leucocyte antigen‐C1C2 was significantly reduced in this cohort compared with non‐transplanted patients.

Conclusion

This study suggests a possible role of killer cell immunoglobulin–like receptors and their ligands in the development of liver damage. The absence of C1 and C2 ligands heterozygosity could lead to less inhibition of natural killer cells and a quicker progression to a high level of fibrosis in patients infected with hepatitis C virus, especially following liver transplantation.
Effects of stromal interaction molecule 1 or Orai1 overexpression on the associated proteins and permeability of podocytes
Authors: Miao Li , Wei Dongyue , Zhang Yuanyuan , Liu Jiansheng , Lu Siguang , Zhang Aihua , Huang Songming
Published: December 2015

Aim

The present study was conducted to determine whether two important signalling molecules of store‐operated channel (SOC), stromal interaction molecule 1 (STIM1) and Orai1, were involved in glomerular podocyte injury. We explored the effects of STIM1/Orai1 overexpression on podocyte associated proteins and cell permeability.

Methods

The expression of STIM1 and Orai1 were examined in the renal cortex of adriamycin‐induced nephropathy mice by real‐time RT‐PCR. The recombinant plasmid of STIM1/Orai1, identified by restriction enzyme digestion and PCR, was transfected into MPC5 cells via lipofectamine 2000. The transfecting efficiency was observed by a fluorescence microscope. RT‐PCR and Western blotting were used to evaluate the expression levels of STIM1, Orai 1 and some podocyte‐associated molecules in the transfected MPC5 cells. In addition, we examined the diffusion of FITC‐dextran across the podocyte monolayer to investigate whether STIM1/Orai1 overexpression could affect cell permeability.

Results

We found that the mRNA levels of STIM1 and Orai1 were increased in adriamycin‐induced nephropathy mice. STIM1/Orai1 overexpression significantly decreased the expression of podocin and CD2‐associated protein (CD2AP), whereas it increased the expression of α‐actinin‐4. The permeability was significantly increased in the STIM1/Orai1 overexpression group.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that STIM1/Orai1 overexpression could affect the cell permeability and the expression of partial podocyte‐associated proteins, which may ultimately result in podocyte injury.
Subjective global assessment for nutritional assessment of hospitalized patients requiring haemodialysis: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Tan Sheau Kang , Loh Yet Hua , Choong Hui Lin , Suhail Sufi M
Published: December 2015

Aim

Evidence has validated that the nutritional status of hospitalized patients on haemodialysis could be compromised because of admission‐related and hospital‐associated morbidities on the background of their kidney disease. However, nutritional status is not assessed and monitored routinely during the hospitalization period. The aim of the present study was to assess the nutritional status of hospitalized patients requiring haemodialysis with the subjective global assessment (SGA) tool during the hospitalization period.

Methods

This is a prospective cohort study conducted in an acute tertiary general hospital. Patients aged 21–75 years old, admitted for various illnesses and requiring haemodialysis between November 2011 and May 2012 were enrolled into this study. A trained dietician assessed patients' nutritional status with the SGA tool, which included historical data on weight change, dietary intake, gastrointestinal symptoms, functional capacity, comorbidities and physical examination on subcutaneous fat loss, muscle wasting and presence of oedema and/or ascites. Patients were categorized under three groups: SGA‐A (well‐nourished), SGA‐B (moderately malnourished) and SGA‐C (severely malnourished).

Results

Eighty patients (mean ± SD age = 59 ± 10 years; 76% Chinese ethnicity) were assessed. Mean ± SD body mass index (BMI) was 25.1 ± 6.1 kg/m2. SGA categories were 48% SGA‐A, 46% SGA‐B, and 6% SGA‐C. Mean energy and protein intake (P < 0.001), length of hospitalization stay (P = 0.03) and BMI (P = 0.001) were significantly different across the three categories of nutritional status.

Conclusions

More than half of the hospitalized patients requiring haemodialysis were malnourished. It is important to incorporate SGA in the care of hospitalized haemodialysis patients for early detection of malnutrition and for medical nutrition therapy to optimise patients' nutritional status for better outcomes.
Comparison of rescue techniques for failed chloral hydrate sedation for magnetic resonance imaging scans—additional chloral hydrate vs intranasal dexmedetomidine
Authors: Zhang Wenhua , Wang Zixin , Song Xingrong , Fan Yanting , Tian Hang , Li Bilian
Published: December 2015

Background

Chloral hydrate, a commonly used sedative in children during noninvasive diagnostic procedures, is associated with side effects like prolonged sedation, paradoxical excitement, delirium, and unpleasant taste. Dexmedetomidine, a highly selective α‐2 agonist, has better pharmacokinetic properties than chloral hydrate. We conducted this prospective, double‐blind, randomized controlled trial to evaluate efficacy of intranasal dexmedetomidine with that of a second oral dose of chloral hydrate for rescue sedation during magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) studies in infants.

Methods

One hundred and fifty infants (age group: 1–6 months), who were not adequately sedated after initial oral dose of 50 mg·kg−1 chloral hydrate, were randomly divided into three groups with the following protocol for each group. Group C: second oral dose chloral hydrate 25 mg·kg−1; Group L and Group H: intranasal dexmedetomidine in a dosage of 1 and 2 mcg·kg−1, respectively. Status of sedation, induction time, time to wake up, vital signs, oxygen saturation, and recovery characteristics were recorded.

Results

Successful rescue sedation in Groups C, L, and H were achieved in 40 (80%), 47 (94%), and 49 (98%) of infants, respectively, on an intention to treat analysis, and the proportion of infants successfully sedated in Group H was more than that of Group L (P ˂ 0.01). There were no significant differences in sedation induction time; however, the time to wake up was significantly shorter in Group L as compared to that in Group C or H (P < 0.01). No significant adverse hemodynamic or hypoxemic effects were observed in the study.

Conclusion

Intranasal dexmedetomidine induced satisfactory rescue sedation in 1‐ to 6‐month‐old infants during MRI study, and appears to cause sedation in a dose‐dependent manner.
Impact of high doses of 6% hydroxyethyl starch 130/0.42 and 4% gelatin on renal function in a pediatric animal model
Authors: Witt Lars , Glage Silke , Lichtinghagen Ralf , Pape Lars , Boethig Dietmar , Dennhardt Nils , Heiderich Sebastian , Leffler Andreas , Sümpelmann Robert
Published: December 2015

Objectives

Despite serious renal side effects in critically ill adult patients, artificial colloids are still fundamental components of perioperative fluid therapy in infants and children, although the impact of 6% hydroxyethyl starch (HES) and 4% gelatin (GEL) on renal function during pediatric surgery has not been identified yet.

Aim

To determine the impact of high doses of artificial colloids on renal function, we conducted an experimental animal study and hypothesized that neither the infusion of HES nor of GEL would have a serious impact on renal function.

Methods

Fifteen sedated piglets were randomly assigned to receive an infusion of either 50 ml·kg−1 HES or GEL, or a balanced electrolyte solution (crystalloid group). Before and 1 week after infusion, serum and urine renal function tests were recorded and renal biopsies were taken.

Results

Serum and urine renal function tests revealed no increase after administration of HES and GEL, and only a discrete increase in serum creatinine (median 9.8 μmol·l−1, 95% CI 4.0–19.1) in the crystalloid group. Histopathological examination indicated a sparsely, multifocal infiltration of mononuclear cells in all groups and an unspecific pyelectasia of one animal in the GEL group.

Conclusions

After high doses of HES or GEL in piglets, no relevant impact on renal function could be found. These results confirm that AKI after HES or GEL is very unlikely in hemodynamically stable perioperative patients with normal renal function.
Ascorbate accumulation during sulphur deprivation and its effects on photosystem II activity and H2 production of the green alga Chlamydomonas reinhardtii
Authors: Nagy Valéria , Vidal‐Meireles André , Tengölics Roland , Rákhely Gábor , Garab Győző , Kovács László , Tóth Szilvia Z.
Published: December 2015

In nature, H2 production in Chlamydomonas reinhardtii serves as a safety valve during the induction of photosynthesis in anoxia, and it prevents the over‐reduction of the photosynthetic electron transport chain. Sulphur deprivation of C. reinhardtii also triggers a complex metabolic response resulting in the induction of various stress‐related genes, down‐regulation of photosynthesis, the establishment of anaerobiosis and expression of active hydrogenase. Photosystem II (PSII) plays dual role in H2 production because it supplies electrons but the evolved O2 inhibits the hydrogenase. Here, we show that upon sulphur deprivation, the ascorbate content in C. reinhardtii increases about 50‐fold, reaching the mM range; at this concentration, ascorbate inactivates the Mn‐cluster of PSII, and afterwards, it can donate electrons to tyrozin Z+ at a slow rate. This stage is followed by donor‐side‐induced photoinhibition, leading to the loss of charge separation activity in PSII and reaction centre degradation. The time point at which maximum ascorbate concentration is reached in the cell is critical for the establishment of anaerobiosis and initiation of H2 production. We also show that ascorbate influenced H2 evolution via altering the photosynthetic electron transport rather than hydrogenase activity and starch degradation.
Expression of Escherichia coli glycogen branching enzyme in an Arabidopsis mutant devoid of endogenous starch branching enzymes induces the synthesis of starch‐like polyglucans
Authors: Boyer Laura , Roussel Xavier , Courseaux Adeline , Ndjindji Ofilia M. , Lancelon‐Pin Christine , Putaux Jean‐Luc , Tetlow Ian J. , Emes Michael J. , Pontoire Bruno , D' Hulst Christophe , Wattebled Fabrice
Published: December 2015

Starch synthesis requires several enzymatic activities including branching enzymes (BEs) responsible for the formation of α(1 → 6) linkages. Distribution and number of these linkages are further controlled by debranching enzymes that cleave some of them, rendering the polyglucan water‐insoluble and semi‐crystalline. Although the activity of BEs and debranching enzymes is mandatory to sustain normal starch synthesis, the relative importance of each in the establishment of the plant storage polyglucan (i.e. water insolubility, crystallinity and presence of amylose) is still debated. Here, we have substituted the activity of BEs in Arabidopsis with that of the Escherichia coli glycogen BE (GlgB). The latter is the BE counterpart in the metabolism of glycogen, a highly branched water‐soluble and amorphous storage polyglucan. GlgB was expressed in the be2 be3 double mutant of Arabidopsis, which is devoid of BE activity and consequently free of starch. The synthesis of a water‐insoluble, partly crystalline, amylose‐containing starch‐like polyglucan was restored in GlgB‐expressing plants, suggesting that BEs' origin only has a limited impact on establishing essential characteristics of starch. Moreover, the balance between branching and debranching is crucial for the synthesis of starch, as an excess of branching activity results in the formation of highly branched, water‐soluble, poorly crystalline polyglucan.
Stable isotopes in leaf water of terrestrial plants
Authors: Cernusak Lucas A. , Barbour Margaret M. , Arndt Stefan K. , Cheesman Alexander W. , English Nathan B. , Feild Taylor S. , Helliker Brent R. , Holloway‐Phillips Meisha M. , Holtum Joseph A.M. , Kahmen Ansgar , McInerney Francesca A. , Munksgaard Niels C. , Simonin Kevin A. , Song Xin , Stuart‐Williams Hilary , West Jason B. , Farquhar Graham D.
Published: December 2015

Leaf water contains naturally occurring stable isotopes of oxygen and hydrogen in abundances that vary spatially and temporally. When sufficiently understood, these can be harnessed for a wide range of applications. Here, we review the current state of knowledge of stable isotope enrichment of leaf water, and its relevance for isotopic signals incorporated into plant organic matter and atmospheric gases. Models describing evaporative enrichment of leaf water have become increasingly complex over time, reflecting enhanced spatial and temporal resolution. We recommend that practitioners choose a model with a level of complexity suited to their application, and provide guidance. At the same time, there exists some lingering uncertainty about the biophysical processes relevant to patterns of isotopic enrichment in leaf water. An important goal for future research is to link observed variations in isotopic composition to specific anatomical and physiological features of leaves that reflect differences in hydraulic design. New measurement techniques are developing rapidly, enabling determinations of both transpired and leaf water δ18O and δ2H to be made more easily and at higher temporal resolution than previously possible. We expect these technological advances to spur new developments in our understanding of patterns of stable isotope fractionation in leaf water.
Extrauterine growth and adipocytokines in appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age preterm infants
Authors: Nagasaki Hiraku , Ohta Takao
Published: December 2015

Background

Extrauterine growth retardation in preterm infants is associated with an increased risk for cardiometabolic diseases later in life. Adipocytokines are also associated with the development of cardiometabolic diseases. We examined the relationship between extrauterine growth and serum concentrations of adipocytokines and metabolic hormones in preterm infants.

Methods

Serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, insulin, interleukin (IL)‐6, tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, C‐peptide, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP), glucagon‐like peptide (GLP)‐1 and glucagon were measured in 38 appropriate‐for‐gestational‐age preterm infants at birth, and at 33 and 38 weeks of postmenstrual age using a Bio‐Plex 200™ suspension array system.

Results

Serum leptin concentration was not correlated with bodyweight at any time point, but serum adiponectin concentration was correlated with bodyweight at all time points. Serum IL‐6 concentration decreased from birth to 33 and 38 weeks. Serum TNF‐α concentration was not changed. Serum C‐peptide, GIP and glucagon concentration increased from birth to 33 weeks, and decreased from 33 to 38 weeks. Serum insulin and GLP‐1 concentration was not changed.

Conclusion

Changes in serum leptin and adiponectin concentration had unique profiles, thereby suggesting maldevelopment of white adipose tissue. This may affect the future development of adipose tissue and lead to increased risk for cardiometabolic disorders.