bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Carbon and nitrogen dynamics in bioenergy ecosystems: 1. Model development, validation and sensitivity analysis
Authors: Qin Zhangcai , Zhuang Qianlai , Zhu Xudong
Published: August 2013

Biofuel made from conventional (e.g., maize (Zea maysL.)) and cellulosic crops (e.g., switchgrass (Panicum virgatumL.) andMiscanthus(Miscanthus × giganteus)) provides alternative energy to fossil fuels and has been considered to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions. To estimate the large‐scale carbon and nitrogen dynamics of these biofuel ecosystems, process‐based models are needed. Here, we developed an agroecosystem model (AgTEM) based on the Terrestrial Ecosystem Model for these ecosystems. The model was incorporated with biogeochemical and ecophysiological processes including crop phenology, biomass allocation, nitrification, and denitrification, as well as agronomic management of irrigation and fertilization. It was used to estimate crop yield, biomass, net carbon exchange, and nitrous oxide emissions at an ecosystem level. The model was first parameterized for maize, switchgrass, andMiscanthusecosystems and then validated with field observation data. We found thatAgTEMwell reproduces the annual net primary production and nitrous oxide fluxes of most sites, with over 85% of total variation explained by the model. Local sensitivity analysis indicated that the model sensitivity varies among different ecosystems. Net primary production of maize is sensitive to temperature, precipitation, cloudiness, fertilizer, and irrigation and less sensitive to atmosphericCO2concentrations. In contrast, the net primary production of switchgrass andMiscanthusis most sensitive to temperature among all factors. Nitrous oxide fluxes are sensitive to management in maize ecosystems, and sensitive to climate factors in cellulosic ecosystems. The developed model should help advance our understanding of carbon and nitrogen dynamics of these biofuel ecosystems at both site and regional levels.
Indices of Anseriform body shape based on the relative size of major skeletal elements and their relationship to reproductive effort
Authors: Hughes Austin L.
Published: August 2013

To assess whether relative clutch mass (RCM) in Anseriformes (wildfowl or waterfowl) is constrained by body shape, principal components (PCs) of size‐adjusted measurements of five major skeletal elements of adult males and females of 60 species of Anseriformes provided indices of body shape. PC1 accounted for 69.8% of the variance and contrasted anterior elements (cranium and sternum) to posterior elements (synsacrum, femur and tibiotarsus). PC1 scores were high in species with a ‘duck‐like’ body shape and low in those with a ‘goose‐like’ body shape. Over the phylogeny of Anseriformes, decreased PC1 scores were associated with feeding on land. PC2 accounted for 18.6% of the variance and contrasted core elements (sternum and synsacrum) with peripheral elements (cranium, femur and tibiotarsus). High PC2 scores were associated with dependence on animal food, particularly in diving species. PC3 accounted for 7.7% of the variance and reflected mainly the relative size of the femur, which was low in diving species. Controlling statistically for phylogenetically independent contrasts in female body shape, there was a significant positive partial correlation between RCM and PC1, suggesting that independent of body size, body shape imposes constraints on reproductive effort in Anseriformes. The results suggest that models of the evolution of reproductive effort in this order, and perhaps in other orders, of birds should control for the effects of body shape.
The vocal begging display ofGreatSpottedCuckooClamator glandariusnestlings in nests of its two main host species: genetic differences or developmental plasticity?
Authors: Roldán María , Soler Manuel , Márquez Rafael , Soler Juan J.
Published: August 2013

The begging behaviour of nestlings is part of a communication system by which nestlings solicit food from their parents. In the case of brood parasitic species, nestlings in the nests of host species could achieve appropriate begging calls through three different mechanisms: (1) mimicking the host species' begging calls, (2) emitting a begging call that stimulates a wide range of hosts or (3) tuning the begging call in a way that optimizes food provisioning by foster parents. All three mechanisms could occur as a result of post‐hatching environmental factors, or they may be innate when parasitic females specialize on particular host species. In this study we analysed the begging calls ofGreatSpottedCuckoo nestlings in nests of its two main hosts,EurasianMagpiePica picaandCarrionCrowCorvus corone corone. We did not find support for the previously suggested mimetic call of cuckoo nestlings, as the structure of begging calls did not differ with respect to host species. In addition, the number of notes per call was the only trait of Cuckoo begging calls that differed when parasitizing different host species, but it was in the opposite direction from that of the begging calls of the nestlings of the two host species. Furthermore, cross‐fostering experiments with nestlings that hatched in nests of the two host species yielded calls that did not support the possibility of genetic determination of begging calls of Cuckoos parasitizing different host species (e.g. host species of origin). Moreover, we found a significant effect of the identity of the host species in explaining variation in the number of notes per call. Therefore, our results suggest that Cuckoo nestlings are able to adjust their begging calls after hatching in nests of different host species by learning efficient begging displays.
Determination of genital hygiene behaviours in women with cystitis
Authors: Gezginci Elif , Iyigun Emine , Acikel Cengizhan , Özgök Yasar İ.
Published: August 2013

Acute cystitis is the most common form of urinary tract infection, and is mostly observed in women. This study was planned to examine genital hygiene behaviours of women with and without cystitis and to determine nursing interventions in this issue. This was a case–control study. The study population consisted of 270 women who attended Urology and Ear–Nose–Throat (ENT)—polyclinics of a University Hospital between February and May 2012. The case group consisted of 135 women with cystitis between the ages of 15 and 49 who attended the Urology polyclinic. The control group consisted of 135 women who attended the ENT polyclinic and had no reported problem related to the urinary system in the same age group. In our study, we observed a statistically significant difference between mean scores on the genital hygiene behaviour inventory of women in case and control groups (p = 0·007). The women without cystitis displayed better genital hygiene behaviours. The women in case and control groups displayed statistically significant difference when considering economic status and genital hygiene behaviours (p = 0·017). The women in both groups were found to have a negative correlation between body mass index and genital hygiene behaviours. Looking at the genital hygiene behaviours in both groups, the women without cystitis were found to display better genital hygiene behaviours. In women, genital hygiene behaviours are significant in the development of cystitis.
Pundits: The Confidence Trick: Better Confident than Right?
Authors: Smith Ben , Wooten Jadrian
Published: August 2013

Media pundits are the supreme example of self-belief and confidence in their own opinions. Through TV, newspapers and blogs they tell us with sublime certainty what will happen. But are they right? And does it matter if they are wrong? Ben Smith and Jadrian Wooten ask what we demand from pundits – accuracy or confidence?
Misgivings about Smart Giving: Some Complications of the Robin Hood Model of Philanthropy
Authors: Lewis Michael A.
Published: August 2013

How do you decide which good causes should receive your money? Two economists suggest relentless logic; but Michael A. Lewis raises some statistical questions about their argument.
Immaterials: Light Painting WiFi
Authors: Arnall Timo , Knutsen Jørn , Martinussen Einar Sneve
Published: August 2013

Blue bars of light are marching across Oslo. It is a whole new way of making data visible.
Improvement of Thermoelectric Properties of In4Se3 Bulk Materials with Cu Nanoinclusions
Authors: Li Gen , Yang Junyou , Luo Yubo , Xiao Ye , Fu Liangwei , Liu Ming , Peng Jiangying
Published: August 2013

In4Se3 bulk materials with Cu nanoinclusions, which were introduced by thermal decomposition of Cu(OAc)2, were prepared by mechanical alloying and subsequent hot‐press process. Effect of Cu nanoparticles content on the microstructure and thermoelectric properties of the composites were investigated in detail. It shows that Cu particles are about 30 nm in size and distribute homogeneously in the In4Se3 matrix when the content of Cu(OAc)2 is not more than 0.3 wt%. The thermal conductivities of the composites were greatly reduced due to the enhanced phonon scattering by nanoinclusions, and their power factors were also enhanced with addition of Cu nanoinclusions. A maximum ZT of 0.97 at 723 K was obtained when the addition content of Cu(OAc)2 was 0.3 wt%
Optimized Growth of Heteroepitaxial (111) NiFe2O4 Thin Films on (0001) Sapphire with Two In‐Plane Variants via Chemical Solution Deposition
Authors: Seifikar Safoura , Calandro Bridget , Rasic Goran , Deeb Elisabeth , Yang Jijin , Bassiri‐Gharb Nazanin , Schwartz Justin
Published: August 2013

(111)‐oriented epitaxial thin films of nickel ferrite (NFO) are grown on c‐plane sapphire [α‐Al2O3(0001)] substrates using a chemical solution deposition technique. The processing conditions, including pyrolysis and annealing temperatures, are varied to achieve a film that shows maximum texture and epitaxy. It is shown that increasing the pyrolysis temperature to 400°C and decreasing the annealing temperature to 750°C for 10 min result in the highest degree of texture in the films. Lower film thickness also leads to a higher degree of texture. Microstructural studies confirm an in‐plane epitaxial relationship between the (111) NFO film and the (0001) Al2O3 substrate in two variants, [110]NFO || or .
Nanocrystallization in Fluorochlorozirconate Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Alvarez Carlos J. , Liu Yuzi , Leonard Russell L. , Johnson Jacqueline A. , Petford‐Long Amanda K.
Published: August 2013

Heat treating fluorochlorozirconate (FCZ) glasses nucleates nanocrystals in the glass matrix, resulting in a nanocomposite glass‐ceramic that has optical properties suitable for use as a medical imaging plate. Understanding the way in which the nanocrystal nucleation proceeds is critical to controlling the optical behavior. The nucleation and growth of nanocrystals in FCZ glass‐ceramics was investigated with in situ transmission electron microscopy heating experiments. The experiments showed the nucleation and growth of previously unreported BaF2 nanocrystals in addition to the expected BaCl2 nanocrystals. Chemical analysis of the BaF2 nanocrystals shows an association with the optically active dopant previously thought only to interact with BaCl2 nanocrystals. The association of the dopant with BaF2 crystals suggests that it plays a role in the photoluminescent (PL) properties of FCZ glass‐ceramics.
Editorial: Do clinical services need to take conduct disorder more seriously?
Authors: Coghill David
Published: August 2013

Oppositional defiant disorder (ODD) and conduct disorder are common disorders and frequent reasons for referral to child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS). Figures from epidemiological studies in the US suggest that around 10% of children suffer from ODD and similar numbers from CD. Data from the UK estimates that around 6% of children and young people aged 5 to 16 years have a clinically diagnosed conduct disorder in England, with much higher rates in males than females.
Intragenomic heterogeneity in the 16S rRNA genes of Flavobacterium columnare and standard protocol for genomovar assignment
Authors: LaFrentz B R , Waldbieser G C , Welch T J , Shoemaker C A
Published: August 2013

Genetic variability in 16S rRNA gene sequences has been demonstrated among isolates of Flavobacterium columnare, and a restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) assay is available for genetic typing of this important fish pathogen. Interpretation of restriction patterns can be difficult due to the lack of a formal description of the expected number and sizes of DNA fragments generated for each of the described genomovars. In this study, partial 16S rRNA gene sequences (ca. 1250‐bp fragment) from isolates representing each described genomovar and isolates generating unique restriction patterns were cloned and sequenced. The results demonstrated that some isolates contained up to three different 16S rRNA genes whose sequences generate different RFLP patterns due to intragenomic heterogeneity within HaeIII restriction sites. The occurrence of HaeIII restriction sites within the portion of the 16S rRNA gene used for typing the F. columnare isolates and intragenomic heterogeneity within these sites explained the restriction patterns observed following RFLP analyses. This research provides a standard protocol for typing isolates of F. columnare by RFLP and a formal description of the expected restriction patterns for the previously described genomovars I, II, II‐B and III. Additionally, we describe a new genomovar, I/II.
Cross‐neutralization studies with salmonid alphavirus subtype 1–6 strains: results with sera from experimental studies and natural infections
Authors: Graham D A , Rowley H R , Frost P
Published: August 2013

The serological reactivity between strains of each of the six currently genetically defined subtypes of salmonid alphavirus (SAV) was examined by comparison of homologous and heterologous virus neutralization titres on sera from experimentally infected fish. With the exception of the level of SAV subtype 6 neutralization by heterologous sera, good cross‐neutralization was detected between all subtypes, albeit with variation in geometric mean titres when each subtype‐specific serum set was tested against the panel of virus subtypes. A similar pattern was evident with field sera, except that heterologous neutralization of the SAV6 strain was more evident. In only 23% of available pairwise comparisons was the homologous titre recorded with an experimentally derived serum fourfold or greater than the heterologous titre, and in only two instances was this difference demonstrated in both directions. No virus strains consistently met the old serology‐based criteria (Sub‐committee on Inter‐relationships Among Catalogued Alphaviruses) to be considered separate subtypes within an alphavirus species. Only when testing with an SAV subtype‐2‐specific monoclonal antibody was a major difference between homologous and heterologous neutralization capacity evident. These results provide new direct or indirect information in terms of SAV classification, vaccine efficacy and the selection and validation of reagents for serological and immunological diagnostic purposes.
In vivo NMR studies of regional cerebral energetics in MPTP model of Parkinson's disease: recovery of cerebral metabolism with acute levodopa treatment
Authors: Bagga Puneet , Chugani Anup N. , Varadarajan Komanduri S. , Patel Anant B.
Published: August 2013

In this study, we have evaluated cerebral atrophy, neurometabolite homeostasis, and neural energetics in 1‐methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridin (MPTP) model of Parkinson's disease. In addition, the efficacy of acute l‐DOPA treatment for the reversal of altered metabolic functions was also evaluated. Cerebral atrophy and neurochemical profile were monitored in vivo using MRI and 1H MR Spectroscopy. Cerebral energetics was studied by 1H‐[13C]‐NMR spectroscopy in conjunction with infusion of 13C labeled [1,6‐13C2]glucose or [2‐13C]acetate. MPTP treatment led to reduction in paw grip strength and increased level of GABA and myo‐inositol in striatum and olfactory bulb. 13C Labeling of glutamate‐C4 (1.93 ± 0.24 vs. 1.48 ± 0.06 μmol/g), GABA‐C2 (0.24 ± 0.04 vs. 0.18 ± 0.02 μmol/g) and glutamaine‐C4 (0.26 ± 0.04 vs. 0.20 ± 0.04 μmol/g) from [1,6‐13C2]glucose was found to be decreased with MPTP exposure in striatum as well as in other brain regions. However, glutamine‐C4 labeling from [2‐13C]acetate was found to be increased in the striatum of the MPTP‐treated mice. Acute l‐DOPA treatment failed to normalize the increased ventricular size and level of metabolites but recovered the paw grip strength and 13C labeling of amino acids from [1,6‐13C2]glucose and [2‐13C]acetate in MPTP‐treated mice. These data indicate that brain energy metabolism is impaired in Parkinson's disease and acute l‐DOPA therapy could temporarily recover the cerebral metabolism.

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Cerebral atrophy, neurometabolite homeostasis, and neural energetics have been evaluated in an MPTP model of Parkinson's disease using MRI, in vivo 1H MRS and 1H‐[13C]‐NMR spectroscopy, respectively. MPTP treatment led to reduced paw grip strength and neuronal function. Acute Levodopa treatment was able to recover the diminished motor function and cerebral function. CMRGlc, Cerebral metabolic rate of glucose oxidation; MPTP, 1‐Methyl‐4‐phenyl‐1,2,3,6‐tetrahydropyridin.
Nonyloxytryptamine mimics polysialic acid and modulates neuronal and glial functions in cell culture
Authors: Loers Gabriele , Saini Vedangana , Mishra Bibhudatta , Papastefanaki Florentia , Lutz David , Chaudhury Sidhartha , Ripoll Daniel R. , Wallqvist Anders , Gul Sheraz , Schachner Melitta , Kaur Gurcharan
Published: August 2013

Polysialic acid (PSA) is a major regulator of cell–cell interactions in the developing nervous system and in neural plasticity in the adult. As a polyanionic molecule with high water‐binding capacity, PSA increases the intercellular space generating permissive conditions for cell motility. PSA enhances stem cell migration and axon path finding and promotes repair in the lesioned peripheral and central nervous systems, thus contributing to regeneration. As a next step in developing an improved PSA‐based approach to treat nervous system injuries, we searched for small organic compounds that mimic PSA and identified as a PSA mimetic 5‐nonyloxytryptamine oxalate, described as a selective 5‐hydroxytryptamine receptor 1B (5‐HT1B) agonist. Similar to PSA, 5‐nonyloxytryptamine binds to the PSA‐specific monoclonal antibody 735, enhances neurite outgrowth of cultured primary neurons and process formation of Schwann cells, protects neurons from oxidative stress, reduces migration of astrocytes and enhances myelination in vitro. Furthermore, nonyloxytryptamine treatment enhances expression of the neural cell adhesion molecule (NCAM) and its polysialylated form PSA‐NCAM and reduces expression of the microtubule‐associated protein MAP2 in cultured neuroblastoma cells. These results demonstrate that 5‐nonyloxytryptamine mimics PSA and triggers PSA‐mediated functions, thus contributing to the repertoire of molecules with the potential to improve recovery in acute and chronic injuries of the mammalian peripheral and central nervous systems.

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Polysialic acid (PSA) plays important roles in nervous system development, as well as synaptic plasticity and regeneration in the adult. 5‐Nonyloxytryptamine oxalate (5‐NOT) mimics PSA and triggers PSA‐mediated functions in neurons and glial cells. 5‐NOT stimulates neuritogenesis, myelination and Schwann cell migration. This study sets the basis to develop a PSA‐mediated therapy of acute and chronic nervous system diseases.
Effects of high non‐phytate phosphorus starter diet on subsequent growth performance and carcass characteristics of broiler chickens
Authors: Baradaran N. , Shahir M. H. , Asadi Kermani Z. , Waldroup P. W. , Sirjani M. A.
Published: August 2013

The trial was performed to investigate the effects of different concentrations of non‐phytate phosphorus (nPP) in the starter and grower (with phytase inclusion) periods on carcass characteristics, organ weight and weekly variations of growth performance in the grower period. Seven hundred and twenty‐day‐old male broiler chickens were randomly assigned to 12 treatments in a completely randomized design. Chickens received two dietary treatments (4.5 g/kg and 6 g/kg nPP) in the starter (0–21 days) and six experimental diets (4 g/kg, 3.1 g/kg, 2.3 g/kg and 2.3 g/kg + 1000 FTU/Kg of feed phytase, 1.5 g/kg, 1.5 g/kg nPP + 1000 FTU/Kg of feed phytase) in the grower period (22–42 days). Results showed that phytase inclusion in the second and third weeks of grower period could increase feed intake significantly. Also, decrease in the concentrations of nPP to 1.5 g/kg caused to decline body weight gain markedly. Moreover, there is a significant difference between 4.5 g/kg and 6 + 4 g/kg nPP (starter+grower) and 1.5 g/kg nPP. Phytase inclusion increased carcass yield and declined liver weight significantly. Dietary treatment of 4.5 + 1.5 g/kg nPP enhanced heart and liver weight markedly. It is concluded that starter diets with increased concentration of nPP (6 g/kg nPP) had no beneficial effects on growth performance in the starter and grower period in the total (0–42 days). Also, it is possible to decrease nPP concentration of grower diets to 1.5 and 2.3 g/kg with and without phytase inclusion respectively.
Public Sector Capital and the Transition from Dictatorship to Democracy
Authors: Ellis Christopher J. , Fender John
Published: August 2013

A model where a dictator decides on both the level of public‐sector capital and whether to democratize is constructed. Under dictatorship the labour market is monopsonistic; democratization involves instituting a competitive labour market. Workers sometimes have a credible threat of revolution and this may affect the dictator's investment decision; it may also induce democratization. The possibility of a ‘political development trap’, where the dictator stifles development to stay in power, emerges. The model is used, inter alia, to explain the effects of the 1832 Reform Act in the UK and the worldwide positive correlation between income and democracy.
A Generalized Goodness‐of‐functional Form Test for Binary and Fractional Regression Models
Authors: Ramalho Esmeralda A. , Ramalho Joaquim J. S. , Murteira José M. R.
Published: August 2013

This paper proposes a new conditional mean test to assess the validity of binary and fractional parametric regression models. The new test checks the joint significance of two simple functions of the fitted index and is based on a very flexible parametric generalization of the postulated model. A Monte Carlo study reveals a promising behaviour for the new test, which compares favourably with that of the well‐known RESET test as well as with tests where the alternative model is non‐parametric.
Molecular assessment of heterotrophy and prey digestion in zooxanthellate cnidarians
Authors: Leal M. C. , Nejstgaard J. C. , Calado R. , Thompson M. E. , Frischer M. E.
Published: August 2013

Zooxanthellate cnidarians are trophically complex, relying on both autotrophy and heterotrophy. Although several aspects of heterotrophy have been studied in these organisms, information linking prey capture with digestion is still missing. We used prey‐specific PCR‐based tools to assess feeding and prey digestion of two zooxanthellate cnidarians – the tropical sea anemone Aiptasia sp. and the scleractinian coral Oculina arbuscula. Prey DNA disappeared rapidly for the initial 1–3 days, whereas complete digestion of prey DNA required up to 10 days in O. arbuscula and 5 or 6 days in Aiptasia sp. depending on prey species. These digestion times are considerably longer than previously reported from microscopy‐based examination of zooxanthellate cnidarians and prey DNA breakdown in other marine invertebrates, but similar to prey DNA breakdown reported from terrestrial invertebrates such as heteroptera and spiders. Deprivation of external prey induced increased digestion rates during the first days after feeding in O. arbuscula, but after 6 days of digestion, there were no differences in the remaining prey levels in fed and unfed corals. This study indicates that prey digestion by symbiotic corals may be slower than previously reported and varies with the type of prey, the cnidarian species and its feeding history. These observations have important implications for bioenergetic and trophodynamic studies on zooxanthellate cnidarians.
Both extracellular chitinase and a new cyclic lipopeptide, chromobactomycin, contribute to the biocontrol activity of Chromobacterium sp. C61
Authors: Kim Hyun Jung , Choi Ho Seong , Yang Si Young , Kim In Seon , Yamaguchi Tokutaro , Sohng Jae Kyung , Park Seuk Kee , Kim Jin‐Cheol , Lee Choong Hwan , Gardener Brian Mcspadden , Kim Young Cheol
Published: August 2013

Chromobacterium sp. strain C61 displays antifungal activities in vitro and has been used successfully for the biocontrol of plant diseases under field conditions. In this study, the roles of extracellular chitinase and an antifungal compound produced by strain C61 were investigated to elucidate their contributions to biological control activity. The bacterium possessed a locus chi54 encoding an extracellular chitinase, and mutation of chi54 eliminated chitinase production. Production of the extracellular enzyme and expression of the chi54 transcript were increased in the wild‐type strain when chitin was added to the culture medium. In vitro assays showed that purified chitinase inhibited spore germination of multiple pathogens. However, the in planta biocontrol activity of filtrates of cultures grown in the presence of chitin was lower than that of filtrates grown without chitin, indicating that correlation between chitinase and biocontrol activity was lacking. The analysis of C61 culture filtrates revealed an antifungal cyclic lipopeptide, chromobactomycin, whose structure contained a unique nonameric peptide ring. The purified chromobactomycin inhibited the growth of several phytopathogenic fungi in vitro, and plant application significantly reduced disease severity for several pathogens. Furthermore, the production of chromobactomycin was reduced in cultures amended with chitin. These data suggest that the production of both the extracellular chitinase Chi54 and the newly identified antibiotic chromobactomycin can contribute, in an interconnected way, to the suppression of plant disease by Chromobacterium sp. strain C61.
Chaperones of the endoplasmic reticulum are required for Ve1‐mediated resistance to Verticillium
Authors: Liebrand Thomas W. H. , Kombrink Anja , Zhang Zhao , Sklenar Jan , Jones Alexandra M. E. , Robatzek Silke , Thomma Bart P. H. J. , Joosten Matthieu H. A. J.
Published: August 2013

The tomato receptor‐like protein (RLP) Ve1 mediates resistance to the vascular fungal pathogen Verticillium dahliae. To identify the proteins required for Ve1 function, we transiently expressed and immunopurified functional Ve1‐enhanced green fluorescent protein (eGFP) from Nicotiana benthamiana leaves, followed by mass spectrometry. This resulted in the identification of peptides originating from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER)‐resident chaperones HSP70 binding proteins (BiPs) and a lectin‐type calreticulin (CRT). Knock‐down of the different BiPs and CRTs in tomato resulted in compromised Ve1‐mediated resistance to V. dahliae in most cases, showing that these chaperones play an important role in Ve1 functionality. Recently, it has been shown that one particular CRT is required for the biogenesis of the RLP‐type Cladosporium fulvum resistance protein Cf‐4 of tomato, as silencing of CRT3a resulted in a reduced pool of complex glycosylated Cf‐4 protein. In contrast, knock‐down of the various CRTs in N. benthamiana or N. tabacum did not result in reduced accumulation of mature complex glycosylated Ve1 protein. Together, this study shows that the BiP and CRT ER chaperones differentially contribute to Cf‐4‐ and Ve1‐mediated immunity.
The effect of Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide on pregnancy in the rat
Authors: Kunnen A , van Pampus MG , Aarnoudse JG , van der Schans CP , Abbas F , Faas MM
Published: August 2013

Objective

Periodontitis, mostly associated with Porphyromonas gingivalis, has frequently been related to adverse pregnancy outcomes. We therefore investigated whether lipopolysaccharides of P. gingivalis (Pg‐LPS) induced pregnancy complications in the rat.

Methods

Experiment 1: pregnant rats (day 14) received increasing Pg‐LPS doses (0.0–50.0 μg kg−1 bw; n = 2/3 p per dose). Maternal intra‐aortic blood pressure, urinary albumin excretion, placental and foetal weight and foetal resorptions were documented. Experiment 2: 10.0 μg kg−1 bw (which induced the highest blood pressure together with decreased foetal weight in experiment 1) or saline was infused in pregnant and non‐pregnant rats (n = 7/9 p per group). Parameters of experiment 1 and numbers of peripheral leucocytes as well as signs of inflammation in the kidney and placenta were evaluated.

Results

Pg‐LPS infusion in pregnant rats increased maternal systolic blood pressure, reduced placental weight (dose dependently) and decreased foetal weight and induced foetal resorptions. It, however, did not induce proteinuria or a generalised inflammatory response. No effects of Pg‐LPS were seen in non‐pregnant rats.

Conclusion

Pg‐LPS increased maternal blood pressure, induced placental and foetal growth restriction, and increased foetal resorptions, without inducing proteinuria and inflammation. Pg‐LPS may therefore play a role in pregnancy complications induced by periodontitis.
Medical profile of patients accessing hospital‐based emergency dental care
Authors: Patel N , Broadfield L.J. , Mellor A.C.
Published: August 2013

Aim

The aim of this study is to investigate the prevalence of medical conditions and medications used by patients accessing emergency dental care at Manchester Dental Hospital.

Materials and methods

The records of 400 randomly selected adult patients seeking emergency dental treatment at Manchester Dental Hospital from October 2011 to July 2012 were reviewed.

Results

From the 400 patients reviewed, 137 (34%) patients had a medically compromising condition. The most commonly presenting conditions were cardiovascular disorders, respiratory disorders, diabetes/endocrine disorders and psychiatric disorders. Twenty‐nine per cent were taking prescribed medication.

Conclusions

Over a third of patients presenting to our emergency dental service had one or more medically compromising conditions. It is vital that dentists have an adequate knowledge about these conditions and how treatment may need to be modified in these patients. A detailed medical history is essential for all patients.
Diversity and palaeoecology of the enigmatic genus Knebelia (Eucrustacea, Decapoda, Eryonidae) from Upper Jurassic plattenkalks in southern Germany
Authors: Audo Denis , Schweigert Günter , Haug Joachim T. , Haug Carolin , Saint Martin Jean‐Paul , Charbonnier Sylvain
Published: August 2013

For a long time, the genus Knebelia Van Straelen, 1922 has comprised two species of eryonid lobster, K. bilobata (Münster, 1839) and K. schuberti (Meyer, 1836), both recorded exclusively from Late Jurassic Lagerstätten in southern Germany. Recently, the latter has been suggested to represent a juvenile individual of Cycleryon propinquus (Schlotheim, 1822). A re‐examination of the type and new material has led to our rejection of that interpretation and confirmation of assignment of this species to Knebelia. Two specimens, both possessing short frontal lobes, from plattenkalks at Nusplingen (late Kimmeridgian) and at Solnhofen (early Tithonian), respectively, are here assigned to a new species, K. totoroi sp. nov. This new species and a review of K. bilobata have furnished new insights into the origin and function of the frontal lobes, which are expansions articulated to the front of the carapace. They probably functioned as rudders facilitating ‘tail‐flip swimming’ as observed in the paddle‐like antennae of extant scyllarids (Eucrustacea, Decapoda, Scyllaridae). The rudder‐like lobes identified in Knebelia may therefore represent a case of convergent evolution.
Recent advances of immunohistochemistry for diagnosis of renal tumors
Authors: Kuroda Naoto , Tanaka Azusa , Ohe Chisato , Nagashima Yoji
Published: August 2013

The recent classification of renal tumors has been proposed according to genetic characteristics as well as morphological difference. In this review, we summarize the immunohistochemical characteristics of each entity of renal tumors. Regarding translocation renal cell carcinoma (RCC), TFE3, TFEB and ALK protein expression is crucial in establishing the diagnosis of Xp11.2 RCC, renal carcinoma with t(6;11)(p21;q12), and renal carcinoma with ALK rearrangement, respectively. In dialysis‐related RCC, neoplastic cells of acquired cystic disease‐associated RCC are positive for alpha‐methylacyl‐CoA racemase (AMACR), but negative for cytokeratin (CK) 7, whereas clear cell papillary RCC shows the inverse pattern. The diffuse positivity for carbonic anhydrase 9 (CA9) is diagnostic for clear cell RCC. Co‐expression of CK7 and CA9 is characteristic of multilocular cystic RCC. CK7 and AMACR are excellent markers for papillary RCC and mucinous tubular and spindle cell carcinoma. CD82 and epithelial‐related antigen (MOC31) may be helpful in the distinction between chromophobe RCC and renal oncocytoma. WT1 and CD57 highlights the diagnosis of metanephric adenoma. The combined panel of PAX2 and PAX8 may be useful in the diagnosis of metastatic RCC.
Parp‐1 deficiency in ES cells promotes invasive and metastatic lesions accompanying induction of trophoblast giant cells during tumorigenesis in uterine environment
Authors: Nozaki Tadashige , Fujimori Hiroaki , Wang Junhui , Suzuki Hiroshi , Imai Hiroshi , Watanabe Masatoshi , Ohura Kiyoshi , Masutani Mitsuko
Published: August 2013

Embryonic stem (ES) cells deficient in poly(ADP‐ribose) polymerase‐1 (Parp‐1) develop into teratocarcinomas with the appearance of trophoblast giant cells (TGCs) when injected subcutaneously into nude mice. Because the uterus is one of the original organs in which germ cell tumors develop with induction of trophoblast lineage, here we investigated whether Parp‐1 deficiency in ES cells affects teratocarcinoma formation processes by grafting ES cells into the horns of uteri. Teratocarcinomas developed from both wild‐type (Parp‐1+/+) and Parp‐1−/− ES cells. The weights of the tumors derived from Parp‐1−/− ES cells were lower than those of the tumors derived from Parp‐1+/+ ES cells (P < 0.05). The Parp‐1−/− tumors showed the appearance of TGCs. Notably, organ metastasis to the lung and liver was observed for the Parp‐1−/− tumors, but not for the Parp‐1+/+ tumors (P < 0.05). Invasions were more frequently observed with the Parp‐1−/− tumors compared with the Parp‐1+/+ tumors (P < 0.05). Since TGCs are known to have invasive properties, the appearance of TGCs may have supported the metastatic process. The present findings suggest that loss of Parp‐1 during teratocarcinoma formation might augment invasive and metastatic properties of the tumors in the uterine environment.
Decoding tufa and travertine (fresh water carbonates) in the sedimentary record: The state of the art
Authors: Capezzuoli Enrico , Gandin Anna , Pedley Martyn
Published: August 2013

Traditionally, fresh water carbonate research has focused on the sedimentology and palaeontology of ancient lacustrine deposits. Lithofacies in such low‐energy deposits are typically fine‐grained, developed uniformly in a generally concentric distribution (‘bulls‐eye’ pattern) and are predictable even when preserved imperfectly. In contrast, because of their local lithofacies and palaeontological complexities, fluvial carbonates were either delegated to a status of ‘minor geomorphological features’ or barely considered prior to the 1970s. This viewpoint was based on the depositional record of fluvial and spring‐fed fresh water carbonates, which were considered to be restricted generally to localized karstic areas. Such deposits are often preserved as scattered patches of ambient temperature tufa. Occasionally, however, in active tectonic areas, localized travertine deposits are also developed from deeply circulating hydrothermal waters. With a few exceptions (for example, basins with high subsidence rates or in arid climate zones), these fresh water carbonates are prone to erosion from continuing river incision and thus may not be preserved in the geological record. A partial record of fluvial and spring‐deposited carbonates is often preserved in Quaternary deposits, but the record in older deposits is typically fragmentary and often diagenetically modified. Yet once their unique facies architecture (and specialized nomenclature) is understood, these carbonates provide an important record of past sedimentological cycles of great value in palaeoenvironmental landscape modelling. The emphasis of modern research is to acquire information that explains how active systems function. In this respect, tufas reveal much of how carbonate precipitation is a shared product of physico‐chemical and microbiological biomediation processes. Likewise, travertines not only show an intimate interrelation with active tectonism but also hold great potential as monitors of past volcanic carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, both tufas and travertines contain palynological records that can be used as proxy indicators of climate change. Perhaps no other field of sedimentology has witnessed more developments and applications over such a brief period of study.
The ICMJE authorship criteria: a response from the editors
Authors: Cairncross Sandy , van Asten Henri , Jaffar Shabbar , Junghanss Thomas , Meyer Christian G. , Van der Stuyft Patrick
Published: August 2013

Tout d'abord, nous sommes en désaccord avec le traitement de la recherche opérationnelle différemment de la recherche “académique” et comme nécessitant des normes et une apologie distinctes. Nous pensons que le débat serait plus clair si, au lieu des termes recherche «académique» et «opérationnelle», on parle plutôt de recherche dans des «tours d'ivoires» et dans le «monde réel» respectivement. Deuxièmement, même si nous partageons la préoccupation de Zachariah et al. de faire participer les gestionnaires de programmes, les décideurs et autres intervenants dans le processus de recherche, nous voyons la paternité d'auteur scientifique comme une incitation, mais pas seulement pour encourager les «l'octroi de permission». Nous voyons cela comme motivant un esprit de recherche, la promotion de la recherche et la participation active à la recherche, afin d'informer les prises de décisions dans le domaine de la médecine tropicale et de la santé internationale.
Toxoplasma gondii Syntaxin 6 Is Required for Vesicular Transport Between Endosomal‐Like Compartments and the Golgi Complex
Authors: Jackson Allison J. , Clucas Caroline , Mamczur Nicola J. , Ferguson David J. , Meissner Markus
Published: August 2013

Apicomplexans are obligate intracellular parasites that invade the host cell in an active process that relies on unique secretory organelles (micronemes, rhoptries and dense granules) localized at the apical tip of these highly polarized eukaryotes. In order for the contents of these specialized organelles to reach their final destination, these proteins are sorted post‐Golgi and it has been speculated that they pass through endosomal‐like compartments (ELCs), where they undergo maturation. Here, we characterize a Toxoplasma gondii homologue of Syntaxin 6 (TgStx6), a well‐established marker for the early endosomes and trans Golgi network (TGN) in diverse eukaryotes. Indeed, TgStx6 appears to have a role in the retrograde transport between ELCs, the TGN and the Golgi, because overexpression of TgStx6 results in the development of abnormally shaped parasites with expanded ELCs, a fragmented Golgi and a defect in inner membrane complex maturation. Interestingly, other organelles such as the micronemes, rhoptries and the apicoplast are not affected, establishing the TGN as a major sorting compartment where several transport pathways intersect. It therefore appears that Toxoplasma has retained a plant‐like secretory pathway.
Effects of optional structural elements, including two alternative amino termini and a new splicing cassette IV, on the function of the sodium–bicarbonate cotransporter NBCn1 (SLC4A7)
Authors: Liu Ying , Qin Xue , Wang Deng‐Ke , Guo Yi‐Min , Gill Harindarpal S. , Morris Nathan , Parker Mark D. , Chen Li‐Ming , Boron Walter F.
Published: August 2013

Key points

The human SLC4A7 gene and the mouse Slc4a7 gene each have alternative promoters that can yield two groups of NBCn1 variants, one in which the extreme N terminus begins with MEAD (representing the first four residues of the N‐terminal domain (Nt)) and the other in which it begins with MERF.

The mouse Slc4a7 gene contains, and the human SLC4A7 gene is predicted to contain, a novel exon that encodes an alternatively spliced cassette IV of 20 aa in the cytoplasmic Nt domain of NBCn1. This new cassette IV is in a position homologous to that of a previously described cassette in the Nt of NBCn2.

From combinations of known optional structural elements (OSEs), SLC4A7 is theoretically able to produce 32 major variants, of which 16 have now been identified, 10 for the first time in the present study.

With heterologous expression in Xenopus oocytes, the OSEs have strong effects on surface abundance and intrinsic HCO3− transport activity. Cassettes II, III and the novel cassette IV have stimulatory effects on the intrinsic HCO3− transport activity of NBCn1.

Abstract  The SLC4A7 gene encodes the electroneutral sodium/HCO3 cotransporter NBCn1, which plays important physiological and pathophysiological roles in many cell types. Previous work identified six NBCn1 variants differing in the sequence of the extreme N terminus – MEAD in rat only, MERF in human only – as well as in the optional inclusion of cassettes I, II, and III. Earlier work also left open the question of whether optional structural elements (OSEs) affect surface abundance or intrinsic (per‐molecule) transport activity. Here, we demonstrate for the first time that SLC4A7 from one species can express both MEAD‐ and MERF‐NBCn1. We also identify a novel cassette IV of 20 aa, and extend by 10 the number of full‐length NBCn1 variants. The alternative N termini and four cassettes could theoretically produce 32 major variants. Moreover, we identify a group of cDNAs predicted to encode just the cytosolic N‐terminal domain (Nt) of NBCn1. A combination of electrophysiology and biotinylation shows that the OSEs can affect surface abundance and intrinsic HCO3− transport activity of NBCn1, as expressed in Xenopus oocytes. Specifically, MEAD tends to increase whereas novel cassette IV reduces surface abundance. Cassettes II, III and novel cassette IV all appear to increase the intrinsic activity of NBCn1.
The role of myogenic mechanisms in human cerebrovascular regulation
Authors: Tan Can Ozan , Hamner J. W. , Taylor J. Andrew
Published: August 2013

Key points

The autoregulatory capacity of the cerebral vasculature allows for maintenance of relatively stable blood flow in the face of fluctuating arterial pressure to protect neural tissue from wide swings in oxygen and nutrient delivery.

We recently found that neurogenic control plays an active role in autoregulation. Although myogenic pathways have also been hypothesized to play a role, previous data have not provided an unequivocal answer.

We examined cerebral blood flow responses to augmented arterial pressure oscillations with and without calcium channel blockade, and characterized autoregulation via a robust non‐linear method.

Blockade significantly altered the non‐linearity between pressure and flow, particularly at the slowest fluctuations, and the same rate of change in pressure elicited a larger change in flow than at baseline.

These results show that myogenic mechanisms also play a significant role in cerebrovascular regulation, and help us better understand physiological mechanisms that underlie cerebral autoregulation in humans.

Abstract  Although myogenic mechanisms have been hypothesized to play a role in cerebrovascular regulation, previous data from both animals and humans have not provided an unequivocal answer. However, cerebral autoregulation is explicitly non‐linear and most prior work relied on simple linear approaches for assessment, potentially missing important changes in autoregulatory characteristics. Therefore, we examined cerebral blood flow responses to augmented arterial pressure oscillations with and without calcium channel blockade (nicardipine) during blood pressure fluctuations (oscillatory lower body negative pressure, OLBNP) across a range of frequencies in 16 healthy subjects. Autoregulation was characterized via a robust non‐linear method (projection pursuit regression, PPR). Blockade resulted in significant tachycardia, a modest but significant elevation in mean arterial pressure, and reductions in mean cerebral blood flow and end‐tidal CO2 during OLBNP. The reductions in flow were directly related to the reductions in CO2 (r= 0.57). While linear cross‐spectral analysis showed that the relationship between pressure–flow fluctuations was preserved after blockade, PPR showed that blockade significantly altered the non‐linearity between pressure and flow, particularly at the slowest fluctuations. At 0.03 Hz, blockade reduced the range of pressure fluctuations that can be buffered (7.5 ± 1.0 vs. 3.7 ± 0.8 mmHg) while increasing the autoregulatory slope (0.10 ± 0.05 vs. 0.24 ± 0.08 cm s−1 mmHg−1). Furthermore, the same rate of change in pressure elicited a change in flow more than twice as large as at baseline. Thus, our results show that myogenic mechanisms play a significant role in cerebrovascular regulation but this may not be appreciated without adequately characterizing the non‐linearities inherent in cerebrovascular regulation.