bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Feedback regulation mediated by Bcl-2 and DARPP-32 regulates inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor phosphorylation and promotes cell survival
Authors: Chang Ming-Jin , Zhong Fei , Lavik Andrew R. , Parys Jan B. , Berridge Michael J. , Distelhorst Clark W.
Published: January 2014

Significance

The B-cell lymphoma-2 (Bcl-2) protein binds to the inositol 1,4,5-trisphosphate receptor (InsP
3
R), a ubiquitous intracellular Ca
2+
channel, thereby promoting cell survival by preventing excessive Ca
2+
elevation. We report here that this mechanism involves Bcl-2 interaction with the Ca
2+
-activated protein phosphatase calcineurin (CaN) and dopamine- and cAMP-regulated phosphoprotein of 32 kDa (DARPP-32), a CaN-regulated inhibitor of protein phosphatase 1. Our findings indicate that this complex constitutes a rapid negative feedback mechanism that is activated by Ca
2+
elevation and decreases InsP
3
R phosphorylation, thus inhibiting InsP
3
R-mediated Ca
2+
release. We posit that Bcl-2-overexpressing cancer cells may exploit this mechanism to inhibit apoptosis.
István Széchenyi, the casino movement, and Hungarian nationalism, 1827–1848
Authors: Maxwell Alexander , Campbell Alexander
Published: January 2014

The establishment of theNemzeti Casino(National Casino) in Pest helped establish civil society in nineteenth-century Hungary. Count István Széchenyi, hoping to modernize Hungary on the English model, established the casino in 1827 as a public forum for the Hungarian nobility. By transcending caste divisions between nobles and bourgeois elites, Széchenyi's casino served as an unofficial parliament and stock exchange, and generally helped cultivate Hungarian patriotism. The Pest Casino inspired a nation-wide trend for casinos, which in turn formed a civil society in opposition to Habsburg absolutism. Yet when the casino movement spread to Hungary's minority nationalities, Jews, Slovaks, Romanians, and particularly Croats, the casino also contributed to national divisions in Hungary's ethnically diverse population that affected the course of the 1848 Revolution.
“Altruism: a saga”
Authors: Harman Oren
Published: January 2014

Recently, a number of prominent evolutionary biologists have contested the theory of kin selection and have in turn been strongly challenged by the majority of their colleagues. The heated nature of the argument over the role of kin and group selection in the evolution of altruism is a testament to the ways in which vested interests and intellectual territory disputes play out in scientific proceedings. However, a closer look at the history of attempts to understand the evolution of altruism, going back to Darwin, suggests that something more than mere academic sword-fighting is going on. There is a long history of social and biological thought intermingling and influencing each other when it comes to the study of social behavior. A consideration of this history, alongside a consideration of possible significant parallels in the evolution of sociality in nature and in man, may help to make better sense of why an entire community is up in arms about ants.
Counter-hegemonic networks and the transformation of global climate politics: rethinking movement-state relations
Authors: Smith Jackie
Published: January 2014

Global financial and ecological crises have fueled the diffusion of ideas and discourses that challenge US hegemony and global capitalism and support the expansion of counterhegemonic alliances between states and social movements. Social movements are calling for rights for Mother Earth and for the development of new measures of well-being, putting forward increasingly credible alternatives to the state-led, market-based approaches to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This paper traces the social movement processes that have advanced ecological and social justice critiques of capitalist development. It explores how regional and global networks of states and movements have contributed to the growing political salience of new claims and discourses that respond to the ecological threats posed by global warming. These observations reveal how social movement challenges contribute to an expanding realm of global politics that transgresses the traditional boundaries of the inter-state arena, calling for adaptations to our theoretical frameworks for understanding global social change.
Inflammation in rat pregnancy inhibits spiral artery remodeling leading to fetal growth restriction and features of preeclampsia
Authors: Cotechini Tiziana , Komisarenko Maria , Sperou Arissa , Macdonald-Goodfellow Shannyn , Adams Michael A. , Graham Charles H.
Published: January 2014

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) and preeclampsia (PE) are often associated with abnormal maternal inflammation, deficient spiral artery (SA) remodeling, and altered uteroplacental perfusion. Here, we provide evidence of a novel mechanistic link between abnormal maternal inflammation and the development of FGR with features of PE. Using a model in which pregnant rats are administered low-dose lipopolysaccharide (LPS) on gestational days 13.5–16.5, we show that abnormal inflammation resulted in FGR mediated by tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF). Inflammation was also associated with deficient trophoblast invasion and SA remodeling, as well as with altered uteroplacental hemodynamics and placental nitrosative stress. Moreover, inflammation increased maternal mean arterial pressure (MAP) and was associated with renal structural alterations and proteinuria characteristic of PE. Finally, transdermal administration of the nitric oxide (NO) mimetic glyceryl trinitrate prevented altered uteroplacental perfusion, LPS-induced inflammation, placental nitrosative stress, renal structural and functional alterations, increase in MAP, and FGR. These findings demonstrate that maternal inflammation can lead to severe pregnancy complications via a mechanism that involves increased maternal levels of TNF. Our study provides a rationale for the use of antiinflammatory agents or NO-mimetics in the treatment and/or prevention of inflammation-associated pregnancy complications.
Musashi-2 controls cell fate, lineage bias, and TGF-β signaling in HSCs
Authors: Park Sun-Mi , Deering Raquel P. , Lu Yuheng , Tivnan Patrick , Lianoglou Steve , Al-Shahrour Fatima , Ebert Benjamin L. , Hacohen Nir , Leslie Christina , Daley George Q. , Lengner Christopher J. , Kharas Michael G.
Published: January 2014

Hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) are maintained through the regulation of symmetric and asymmetric cell division. We report that conditional ablation of the RNA-binding protein Msi2 results in a failure of HSC maintenance and engraftment caused by a loss of quiescence and increased commitment divisions. Contrary to previous studies, we found that these phenotypes were independent of Numb. Global transcriptome profiling and RNA target analysis uncovered Msi2 interactions at multiple nodes within pathways that govern RNA translation, stem cell function, and TGF-β signaling. Msi2-null HSCs are insensitive to TGF-β–mediated expansion and have decreased signaling output, resulting in a loss of myeloid-restricted HSCs and myeloid reconstitution. Thus, Msi2 is an important regulator of the HSC translatome and balances HSC homeostasis and lineage bias.
Estradiol and mTORC2 cooperate to enhance prostaglandin biosynthesis and tumorigenesis in TSC2-deficient LAM cells
Authors: Li Chenggang , Lee Po-Shun , Sun Yang , Gu Xiaoxiao , Zhang Erik , Guo Yanan , Wu Chin-Lee , Auricchio Neil , Priolo Carmen , Li Jing , Csibi Alfredo , Parkhitko Andrey , Morrison Tasha , Planaguma Anna , Kazani Shamsah , Israel Elliot , Xu Kai-Feng , Henske Elizabeth Petri , Blenis John , Levy Bruce D. , Kwiatkowski David , Yu Jane J.
Published: January 2014

Lymphangioleiomyomatosis (LAM) is a progressive neoplastic disorder that leads to lung destruction and respiratory failure primarily in women. LAM is typically caused by tuberous sclerosis complex 2 (TSC2) mutations resulting in mTORC1 activation in proliferative smooth muscle–like cells in the lung. The female predominance of LAM suggests that estradiol contributes to disease development. Metabolomic profiling identified an estradiol-enhanced prostaglandin biosynthesis signature in Tsc2-deficient (TSC−) cells, both in vitro and in vivo. Estradiol increased the expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), a rate-limiting enzyme in prostaglandin biosynthesis, which was also increased at baseline in TSC-deficient cells and was not affected by rapamycin treatment. However, both Torin 1 treatment and Rictor knockdown led to reduced COX-2 expression and phospho-Akt-S473. Prostaglandin production was also increased in TSC-deficient cells. In preclinical models, both Celecoxib and aspirin reduced tumor development. LAM patients had significantly higher serum prostaglandin levels than healthy women. 15-epi-lipoxin-A4 was identified in exhaled breath condensate from LAM subjects and was increased by aspirin treatment, indicative of functional COX-2 expression in the LAM airway. In vitro, 15-epi-lipoxin-A4 reduced the proliferation of LAM patient–derived cells in a dose-dependent manner. Targeting COX-2 and prostaglandin pathways may have therapeutic value in LAM and TSC-related diseases, and possibly in other conditions associated with mTOR hyperactivation.
Interpretation of Rotation Curves of Spiral Galaxies in Modified Teleparallel Gravity
Authors: Nozari K. , Shojaee R. , Karimzadeh S.
Published: January 2014

There is a significant difference between the calculation based on the theory of general relativity and observation of rotation curves of spiral galaxies. To describe this discrepancy, two distinct theories have been proposed so far: existence of dark matter and modification of underlying gravitational theory. In the absence of dark matter, it is assumed that the theory of general relativity on galactic scales needs to be modified. This letter is devoted to explaining this difference in a modified teleparallel gravity. We show that modified teleparallel gravity favors flatness of rotation curves of spiral galaxies much in the same way as observation shows.
FamAnn: an automated variant annotation pipeline to facilitate target discovery for family-based sequencing studies
Authors: Yao Jianchao , Zhang Kelvin Xi , Kramer Melissa , Pellegrini Matteo , McCombie W. Richard
Published: January 2014

Summary: FamAnn is an automated variant annotation pipeline designed for facilitating target discovery for family-based sequencing studies. It can apply a different inheritance pattern or a de novo mutations discovery model to each family and select single nucleotide variants and small insertions and deletions segregating in each family or shared by multiple families. It also provides a variety of variant annotations and retains and annotates all transcripts hit by a single variant. Excel-compatible outputs including all annotated variants segregating in each family or shared by multiple families will be provided for users to prioritize variants based on their customized thresholds. A list of genes that harbor the segregating variants will be provided as well for possible pathway/network analyses. FamAnn uses the de facto community standard Variant Call Format as the input format and can be applied to whole exome, genome or targeted resequencing data.

Availability:  https://sites.google.com/site/famannotation/home

Contact:  jianchaoyao@gmail.com, kelvinzhang@mednet.ucla.edu, mccombie@cshl.edu

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Length-dependent processing of telomeres in the absence of telomerase
Authors: Fallet Emilie , Jolivet Pascale , Soudet Julien , Lisby Michael , Gilson Eric , Teixeira Maria Teresa
Published: January 2014

In the absence of telomerase, telomeres progressively shorten with every round of DNA replication, leading to replicative senescence. In telomerase-deficient Saccharomyces cerevisiae, the shortest telomere triggers the onset of senescence by activating the DNA damage checkpoint and recruiting homologous recombination (HR) factors. Yet, the molecular structures that trigger this checkpoint and the mechanisms of repair have remained elusive. By tracking individual telomeres, we show that telomeres are subjected to different pathways depending on their length. We first demonstrate a progressive accumulation of subtelomeric single-stranded DNA (ssDNA) through 5′-3′ resection as telomeres shorten. Thus, exposure of subtelomeric ssDNA could be the signal for cell cycle arrest in senescence. Strikingly, early after loss of telomerase, HR counteracts subtelomeric ssDNA accumulation rather than elongates telomeres. We then asked whether replication repair pathways contribute to this mechanism. We uncovered that Rad5, a DNA helicase/Ubiquitin ligase of the error-free branch of the DNA damage tolerance (DDT) pathway, associates with native telomeres and cooperates with HR in senescent cells. We propose that DDT acts in a length-independent manner, whereas an HR-based repair using the sister chromatid as a template buffers precocious 5′-3′ resection at the shortest telomeres.
Electrical Stimulation of the Ventral Tegmental Area Induces Reanimation from General Anesthesia
Authors: Solt Ken , Van Dort Christa J. , Chemali Jessica J. , Taylor Norman E. , Kenny Jonathan D. , Brown Emery N.
Published: January 2014

Background:

Methylphenidate or a D1 dopamine receptor agonist induces reanimation (active emergence) from general anesthesia. The authors tested whether electrical stimulation of dopaminergic nuclei also induces reanimation from general anesthesia.

Methods:

In adult rats, a bipolar insulated stainless steel electrode was placed in the ventral tegmental area (VTA, n = 5) or substantia nigra (n = 5). After a minimum 7-day recovery period, the isoflurane dose sufficient to maintain loss of righting was established. Electrical stimulation was initiated and increased in intensity every 3 min to a maximum of 120 µA. If stimulation restored the righting reflex, an additional experiment was performed at least 3 days later during continuous propofol anesthesia. Histological analysis was conducted to identify the location of the electrode tip. In separate experiments, stimulation was performed in the prone position during general anesthesia with isoflurane or propofol, and the electroencephalogram was recorded.

Results:

To maintain loss of righting, the dose of isoflurane was 0.9% ± 0.1 vol%, and the target plasma dose of propofol was 4.4 ± 1.1 µg/ml (mean ± SD). In all rats with VTA electrodes, electrical stimulation induced a graded arousal response including righting that increased with current intensity. VTA stimulation induced a shift in electroencephalogram peak power from δ (<4 Hz) to θ (4–8 Hz). In all rats with substantia nigra electrodes, stimulation did not elicit an arousal response or significant electroencephalogram changes.

Conclusions:

Electrical stimulation of the VTA, but not the substantia nigra, induces reanimation during general anesthesia with isoflurane or propofol. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that dopamine release by VTA neurons, but not substantia nigra neurons, induces reanimation from general anesthesia.
Acute Effects of the Glucagon‐Like Peptide 2 Analogue, Teduglutide, on Intestinal Adaptation in Short Bowel Syndrome
Authors: Thymann Thomas , Stoll Barbara , Mecklenburg Lars , Burrin Douglas G. , Vegge Andreas , Qvist Niels , Eriksen Thomas , Jeppesen Palle B. , Sangild Per T.
Published: January 2014

Neonatal short bowel syndrome following massive gut resection is associated with malabsorption of nutrients. The intestinotrophic factor glucagon‐like peptide 2 (GLP‐2) improves gut function in adult patients with short bowel syndrome, but its effect in pediatric patients remains unknown. Our objective was to test the efficacy of the long‐acting synthetic human GLP‐2 analogue, teduglutide (ALX‐0600), in a neonatal piglet jejunostomy model. Two‐day‐old pigs were subjected to resection of 50% of the small intestine (distal part), and the remnant intestine was exteriorized on the abdominal wall as a jejunostomy. All pigs were given total parenteral nutrition for 7 days and a single daily injection of the following doses of teduglutide: 0.01 (n = 6), 0.02 (n = 6), 0.1 (n = 5), or 0.2 mg · kg−1 · day−1 (n = 6), and compared with placebo (n = 9). Body weight increment was similar for all 4 teduglutide groups but higher than placebo (P < 0.05). There was a dose‐dependent increase in weight per length of the remnant intestine (P < 0.01) and fractional protein synthesis rate in the intestine was increased in the 0.2 mg · kg−1 · day−1 group versus placebo (P < 0.001); however, functional and structural endpoints including activity of digestive enzymes, absorption of enteral nutrients, and immunohistochemistry (Ki67, villin, FABP2, ChgA, and GLP‐2R) were not affected by the treatment. Teduglutide induces trophicity on the remnant intestine but has limited acute effects on functional endpoints. Significant effects of teduglutide on gut function may require a longer adaptation period and/or a more frequent administration of the peptide. In perspective, GLP‐2 or its analogues may be relevant to improve intestinal adaptation in pediatric patients with short bowel syndrome.
High Bone Density in Adolescents With Obesity Is Related to Fat Mass and Serum Leptin Concentrations
Authors: Maggio Albane B.R. , Belli Dominique C. , Puigdefabregas Julie Wacker Bou , Rizzoli René , Farpour‐Lambert Nathalie J. , Beghetti Maurice , McLin Valérie A.
Published: January 2014

Objectives:

Obesity has been associated with increased bone mass, but the mechanisms involved are still poorly understood. We aimed to explore the relation between bone mineral density and factors known to influence bone formation in obese and lean adolescents.

Methods:

We recruited 24 obese and 25 lean adolescents in a case‐control study. Total body bone mineral density (TB‐BMD) z scores and body composition were determined using dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry. We measured 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25‐OH‐D), glucose, insulin, and leptin concentrations. Physical activity (PA) level was quantified using accelerometer.

Results:

TB‐BMD z score was higher, whereas 25‐OH‐D and PA levels were lower in obese compared with lean subjects (TB‐BMD z score 1.06 ± 0.96 vs 0.26 ± 0.91, P = 0.004; 25‐OH‐D 9.9 ± 6.4 vs 18.5 ± 7.4 ng mL−1, P < 0.001; PA level 308.3 ± 22.1 vs 406.8 ± 29.2 count min−1, P = 0.01). TB‐BMD z score was not related to 25‐OH‐D or PA levels, but was positively correlated with leptin concentration and fat mass (P < 0.05). Vitamin D concentration was negatively correlated with fat mass (P < 0.001).

Conclusions:

Despite lower serum vitamin D and PA levels, BMD was higher in adolescents with obesity and associated with higher serum leptin concentrations. Furthermore, adolescents with obesity have lower vitamin D serum concentrations than lean controls, probably owing to its distribution in adipose tissue.
Filtering and polychromatic vision in mantis shrimps: themes in visible and ultraviolet vision
Authors: Cronin Thomas W. , Bok Michael J. , Marshall N. Justin , Caldwell Roy L.
Published: January 2014

Stomatopod crustaceans have the most complex and diverse assortment of retinal photoreceptors of any animals, with 16 functional classes. The receptor classes are subdivided into sets responsible for ultraviolet vision, spatial vision, colour vision and polarization vision. Many of these receptor classes are spectrally tuned by filtering pigments located in photoreceptors or overlying optical elements. At visible wavelengths, carotenoproteins or similar substances are packed into vesicles used either as serial, intrarhabdomal filters or lateral filters. A single retina may contain a diversity of these filtering pigments paired with specific photoreceptors, and the pigments used vary between and within species both taxonomically and ecologically. Ultraviolet-filtering pigments in the crystalline cones serve to tune ultraviolet vision in these animals as well, and some ultraviolet receptors themselves act as birefringent filters to enable circular polarization vision. Stomatopods have reached an evolutionary extreme in their use of filter mechanisms to tune photoreception to habitat and behaviour, allowing them to extend the spectral range of their vision both deeper into the ultraviolet and further into the red.
The role of the sun in the celestial compass of dung beetles
Authors: Dacke M. , el Jundi Basil , Smolka Jochen , Byrne Marcus , Baird Emily
Published: January 2014

Recent research has focused on the different types of compass cues available to ball-rolling beetles for orientation, but little is known about the relative precision of each of these cues and how they interact. In this study, we find that the absolute orientation error of the celestial compass of the day-active dung beetleScarabaeus lamarckidoubles from 16° at solar elevations below 60° to an error of 29° at solar elevations above 75°. As ball-rolling dung beetles rely solely on celestial compass cues for their orientation, these insects experience a large decrease in orientation precision towards the middle of the day. We also find that in the compass system of dung beetles, the solar cues and the skylight cues are used together and share the control of orientation behaviour. Finally, we demonstrate that the relative influence of the azimuthal position of the sun for straight-line orientation decreases as the sun draws closer to the horizon. In conclusion, ball-rolling dung beetles possess a dynamic celestial compass system in which the orientation precision and the relative influence of the solar compass cues change over the course of the day.
The visual ecology of a deep-sea fish, the escolar
Lepidocybium flavobrunneum
(Smith, 1843)
Authors: Landgren Eva , Fritsches Kerstin , Brill Richard , Warrant Eric
Published: January 2014

Escolar (
Lepidocybium flavobrunneum
, family Gempylidae) are large and darkly coloured deep-sea predatory fish found in the cold depths (more than 200 m) during the day and in warm surface waters at night. They have large eyes and an overall low density of retinal ganglion cells that endow them with a very high optical sensitivity. Escolar have banked retinae comprising six to eight layers of rods to increase the optical path length for maximal absorption of the incoming light. Their retinae possess two main
areae
of higher ganglion cell density, one in the ventral retina viewing the dorsal world above (with a moderate acuity of 4.6 cycles deg
−1
), and the second in the temporal retina viewing the frontal world ahead. Electrophysiological recordings of the flicker fusion frequency (FFF) in isolated retinas indicate that escolar have slow vision, with maximal FFF at the highest light levels and temperatures (around 9 Hz at 23°C) which fall to 1–2 Hz in dim light or cooler temperatures. Our results suggest that escolar are slowly moving sit-and-wait predators. In dim, warm surface waters at night, their slow vision, moderate dorsal resolution and highly sensitive eyes may allow them to surprise prey from below that are silhouetted in the downwelling light.
Shrimps that pay attention: saccadic eye movements in stomatopod crustaceans
Authors: Marshall N. J. , Land M. F. , Cronin T. W.
Published: January 2014

Discovering that a shrimp can flick its eyes over to a fish and follow up by tracking it or flicking back to observe something else implies a ‘primate-like’ awareness of the immediate environment that we do not normally associate with crustaceans. For several reasons, stomatopods (mantis shrimp) do not fit the general mould of their subphylum, and here we add saccadic, acquisitional eye movements to their repertoire of unusual visual capabilities. Optically, their apposition compound eyes contain an area of heightened acuity, in some ways similar to the fovea of vertebrate eyes. Using rapid eye movements of up to several hundred degrees per second, objects of interest are placed under the scrutiny of this area. While other arthropod species, including insects and spiders, are known to possess and use acute zones in similar saccadic gaze relocations, stomatopods are the only crustacean known with such abilities. Differences among species exist, generally reflecting both the eye size and lifestyle of the animal, with the larger-eyed more sedentary species producing slower saccades than the smaller-eyed, more active species. Possessing the ability to rapidly look at and assess objects is ecologically important for mantis shrimps, as their lifestyle is, by any standards, fast, furious and deadly.
Contrast sensitivity and the detection of moving patterns and features
Authors: O'Carroll David C. , Wiederman Steven D.
Published: January 2014

Theories based on optimal sampling by the retina have been widely applied to visual ecology at the level of the optics of the eye, supported by visual behaviour. This leads to speculation about the additional processing that must lie in between—in the brain itself. But fewer studies have adopted a quantitative approach to evaluating the detectability of specific features in these neural pathways. We briefly review this approach with a focus on contrast sensitivity of two parallel pathways for motion processing in insects, one used for analysis of wide-field optic flow, the other for detection of small features. We further use a combination of optical modelling of image blur and physiological recording from both photoreceptors and higher-order small target motion detector neurons sensitive to small targets to show that such neurons operate right at the limits imposed by the optics of the eye and the noise level of single photoreceptors. Despite this, and the limitation of only being able to use information from adjacent receptors to detect target motion, they achieve a contrast sensitivity that rivals that of wide-field motion sensitive pathways in either insects or vertebrates—among the highest in absolute terms seen in any animal.
Predicting human visuomotor behaviour in a driving task
Authors: Johnson Leif , Sullivan Brian , Hayhoe Mary , Ballard Dana
Published: January 2014

The sequential deployment of gaze to regions of interest is an integral part of human visual function. Owing to its central importance, decades of research have focused on predicting gaze locations, but there has been relatively little formal attempt to predict the temporal aspects of gaze deployment in natural multi-tasking situations. We approach this problem by decomposing complex visual behaviour into individual task modules that require independent sources of visual information for control, in order to model human gaze deployment on different task-relevant objects. We introduce a softmax barrier model for gaze selection that uses two key elements: a priority parameter that represents task importance per module, and noise estimates that allow modules to represent uncertainty about the state of task-relevant visual information. Comparisons with human gaze data gathered in a virtual driving environment show that the model closely approximates human performance.
Prevalence of Vibrio cholerae O1 El Tor variant in a cholera-endemic zone of Kenya
Authors: Saidi Suleiman M. , Chowdhury Nityananda , Awasthi Sharda P. , Asakura Masahiro , Hinenoya Atsushi , Iijima Yoshio , Yamasaki Shinji
Published: January 2014

Since 2007, Kenya has experienced an increase in cholera outbreaks characterized by a high fatality rate. In this study, we characterized 81 Vibrio cholerae isolates from diarrhoeal stool samples in Nyanza, a cholera-endemic lake region of Kenya, for virulence properties, clonality and antibiotic susceptibility. Eighty of these isolates were V. cholerae O1 El Tor variants carrying the classical ctxB gene sequence, while one isolate was V. cholerae non-O1/O139. All of the El Tor variants were of clonal origin, as revealed by PFGE, and were susceptible to ampicillin, tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, fosfomycin, kanamycin and norfloxacin. However, the isolates showed resistance to sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim and streptomycin, and intermediate resistance to nalidixic acid, chloramphenicol and imipenem. The non-O1/O139 isolate carried the cholix toxin II gene (chxA II) and was susceptible to all antimicrobials tested except ampicillin. We propose that an El Tor variant clone caused the Nyanza cholera outbreak of 2007–2008.
The PB2 E627K mutation contributes to the high polymerase activity and enhanced replication of H7N9 influenza virus
Authors: Zhang Hong , Li Xuyong , Guo Jing , Li Li , Chang Chong , Li Yuanyuan , Bian Chao , Xu Ke , Chen Hualan , Sun Bing
Published: January 2014

Human infection by H7N9 influenza virus was first identified in China in March 2013. As of 12 August 2013, a total of 135 documented cases with 44 fatalities had been reported. Genetic and laboratory analyses of the novel H7N9 viruses isolated from patients indicate that these viruses possess several polymerase gene mutations previously associated with human adaptation and potential pandemic capabilities. However, the function of these mutations in the emergence and pathogenicity of the viruses is not well known. In this study, we demonstrate that the PB2 E627K mutation, which occurs in over 70 % of the H7N9 patient isolates, promotes the replication of H7N9 virus by enhancing PB2 polymerase activity and enhances virulence in mice. Our results show the PB2 E627K mutation has played an important role in this H7N9 influenza outbreak and in the pathogenicity of the H7N9 virus.
Stem cells in Nanomia bijuga (Siphonophora), a colonial animal with localized growth zones
Authors: Siebert Stefan , Goetz Freya E. , Church Samuel H. , Bhattacharyya Pathikrit , Zapata Felipe , Haddock Steven H.D. , Dunn Casey W.
Published: January 2014

Background: Siphonophores (Hydrozoa) have unparalleled colony-level complexity, precision of colony organization, and functional specialization between zooids (i.e., the units that make up colonies). Previous work has shown that, unlike other colonial animals, most growth in siphonophores is restricted to one or two well-defined growth zones that are the sites of both elongation and zooid budding. It remained unknown, however, how this unique colony growth and development is realized at the cellular level. Results: To understand the colony-level growth and development of siphonophores at the cellular level, we characterize the distribution of proliferating cells and interstitial stem cells (i-cells) in the siphonophore Nanomia bijuga. Within the colony we find that i-cells are present at the tip of the horn, the structure within the growth zone that gives rise to new zooids. They persist in the youngest zooid buds, but as each zooid matures i-cells become progressively restricted to specific regions within the zooids until they are mostly absent from the oldest zooids. I-cell marker-gene expression remained in gametogenic regions. I-cells are not found in the stem between maturing zooids. Domains of high cell proliferation include regions where i-cells can be found, but also include some areas without i-cells such as the stem within the growth zones. Cell proliferation in regions devoid of marker gene expression indicates the presence of mitotically active epithelial cell lineages and, potentially, progenitor cell populations. Conclusions: Restriction of stem cells to particular regions in the colony may play a major role in facilitating the precision of siphonophore growth, and also lead to a reduced developmental plasticity in other, typically older, parts of the colony. This helps explain why siphonophore colonies have such precise colony-level organization.
ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR070 Regulates Root Development and Phosphate Starvation-Mediated Responses
Authors: Ramaiah Madhuvanthi , Jain Ajay , Raghothama Kashchandra G.
Published: January 2014

Inorganic phosphate (Pi) availability is a major factor determining growth and consequently the productivity of crops. However, it is one of the least available macronutrients due to its high fixation in the rhizospheres. To overcome this constraint, plants have developed adaptive responses to better acquire, utilize, and recycle Pi. Molecular determinants of these adaptive mechanisms include transcription factors (TFs) that play a major role in transcriptional control, thereby regulating genome-scale networks. In this study, we have characterized the biological role of Arabidopsis thaliana Ethylene Response Factor070 (AtERF070), a Pi starvation-induced TF belonging to the APETALA2/ETHYLENE RESPONSE FACTOR family of TFs in Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana). It is localized to the nucleus and induced specifically in Pi-deprived roots and shoots. RNA interference-mediated suppression of AtERF070 led to augmented lateral root development resulting in higher Pi accumulation, whereas there were reductions in both primary root length and lateral root number in 12-d-old transgenic seedlings overexpressing AtERF070. When the overexpressing lines were grown to maturity under greenhouse conditions, they revealed a stunted bushy appearance that could be rescued by gibberellic acid application. Furthermore, a number of Pi starvation-responsive genes were modulated in AtERF070-overexpressing and RNA interference lines, thereby suggesting a potential role for this TF in maintaining Pi homeostasis.
Ethyl 2-{5-[(3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzothiazin-4-yl)methyl]-1H-1,2,3-triazol-1-yl}acetate
Authors: Sebbar Nada Kheira , Zerzouf Abdelfettah , Essassi El Mokhtar , Saadi Mohamed , El Ammari Lahcen
Published: January 2014

In the title compound, C15H16N4O3S, the six-membered heterocycle of the benzothiazine fragment exhibits a screw boat conformation. The dihedral angle between the planes through the triazole ring and the benzene ring fused to the 1,4-thiazine ring is 62.98 (11)°. The mean plane formed by the atoms belonging to the acetate group is nearly perpendicular to the triazole ring [dihedral angle = 74.65 (12)°]. In the crystal, molecules are linked by pairs of C—H...O interactions, forming dimeric aggregates.
(E)-2-(4-Benzyloxy-2-hydroxybenzylidene)-N-methylhydrazinecarbothioamide
Authors: Sajitha N. R. , Sithambaresan M. , Kurup M. R. Prathapachandra
Published: January 2014

The molecule of the title compound, C16H17N3O2S, adopts anEconformation with respect to the azomethine C=N bond. The hydrazinecarbothioamide fragment is close to planar, with a largest deviation from the least-squares plane of 0.079 (2) Å for the hydrazide N atom. This fragment forms a dihedral angle of 9.43 (9)° with the central benzene ring. The benzene rings are inclined to one another by 67.55 (12)°. The molecular conformation is stabilized by an intramolecular O—H...N hydrogen bond involving the azomethine N atom. In the crystal, molecules are linked through weak N—H...S and N—H...O hydrogen bonds into double ribbons along [010]. The crystal packing also features C—H...π interactions.
(R)-N-[(R)-2,2-Dichloro-1-phenyl-2-(phenylsulfonyl)ethyl]-2-methylpropane-2-sulfinamide
Authors: Huang Haiji , Li Ya , Chu Jingming
Published: January 2014

The title molecule, C18H21Cl2NO3S2, contains one chiral carbon center and the absolute sterochemistry has been confirmed as asR. An intramolecular N—H...O hydrogen bond occurs and the dihedral angle between the benzene rings is 64.5 (1)°. In the crystal, the molecules are linked by weak C—H...O hydrogen bonds, forming a zigzag chain structure extending along thec-axis direction.
N′-[(1E)-1-(2-Fluorophenyl)ethylidene]pyridine-3-carbohydrazide
Authors: Sreeja P. B. , Sithambaresan M. , Aiswarya N. , Kurup M. R. Prathapachandra
Published: January 2014

The title compound, C14H12FN3O, adopts anEconformation with respect to the azomethine double bond whereas the N and methyl C atoms are in aZconformation with respect to the same bond. The ketonic O and azomethine N atoms arecisto each other. The non-planar molecule [the dihedral angle between the benzene rings is 7.44 (11)°] exists in an amido form with a C=O bond length of 1.221 (2) Å. In the crystal, a bifurcated N—H...(O,N) hydrogen bond is formed between the amide H atom and the keto O and imine N atoms of an adjacent molecule, leading to the formation of chains propagating along theb-axis direction. Through a 180° rotation of the fluorophenyl ring, the F atom is disordered over two sites with an occupancy ratio of 0.632 (4):0.368 (4).
Small-angle scattering from multiphase fractals
Authors: Cherny A. Yu. , Anitas E. M. , Osipov V. A. , Kuklin A. I.
Published: January 2014

Small-angle scattering (SAS) intensities observed experimentally are often characterized by the presence of successive power-law regimes with various scattering exponents whose values vary from −4 to −1. This usually indicates multiple fractal structures of the sample characterized by different size scales. The existing models explaining the crossover positions (that is, the points where the power-law scattering exponent changes) involve only one contrast parameter, which depends solely on the ratio of the fractal sizes. Here, a model that describes SAS from a multiphase system with a few contrast parameters is described, and it is shown that the crossover position depends on the scattering length density of each phase. The Stuhrmann contrast variation method is generalized and applied to experimental curves in the vicinity of the crossover point beyond the Guinier region. The contrast variation is applied not to the intensity itself but to the model parameters, which can be found by fitting the experimental data with the suggested interpolation formula. The model supplements the existing two-phase models and gives the simple condition of their inapplicability: if the crossover point depends on the contrast then a two-phase model is not relevant. The developed analysis allows one to answer the qualitative question of whether one fractal `absorbs' another one or they are both immersed in a surrounding homogeneous medium like a solvent or solid matrix. The models can be applied to experimental SAS data where the absolute value of the scattering exponent of the first power-law regime is higher than that of the subsequent second power-law regime, that is, the scattering curve is `convex' near the crossover point. As is shown, the crossover position can be very sensitive to contrast variation, which influences significantly the length of the fractal range.
Cluster method for analysing surface X-ray diffraction data sets using area detectors
Authors: Leake Steven J. , Reinle-Schmitt Mathilde L. , Kalichava Irakli , Pauli Stephan A. , Willmott Philip R.
Published: January 2014

An automated cluster algorithm is described, applicable to any image where a signal is to be analysed. The algorithm is employed in the context of surface X-ray diffraction data and extended to automate the data reduction process, which at present limits both the lead time to and the reliability of the retrieved structural information. A detailed evaluation of the constraints used to automate surface X-ray diffraction data analysis is provided. To overcome limitations of the algorithm and the experiment itself in certain geometries, the full field of view of area detectors is exploited to obtain orders of magnitude improvements in data collection. The method extends the surface X-ray diffraction technique to new systems and highlights the often archaic approach to the analysis of data collected with a two-dimensional detector.
Time-resolved small-angle neutron scattering study on guest-exchange processes in co-crystals of syndiotactic polystyrene
Authors: Kaneko Fumitoshi , Radulescu Aurel , Ute Koichi
Published: January 2014

Syndiotactic polystyrene (sPS) occupies a peculiar position among crystalline polymers: it forms co-crystals with many different kinds of chemical compounds, where the molecules are confined as guests in the regularly arranged cavities surrounded by the side phenyl groups. The guest molecules can be replaced smoothly by exposure to a vapour or a liquid of another compound, keeping the framework of the host polymer crystallites. It has been confirmed that the guest-exchange procedure is an effective way to incorporate a variety of chemical species into the crystalline region of syndiotactic polystyrene. In order to elucidate its characteristics, the guest-exchange process in co-crystals of syndiotactic polystyrene has been studied byin situtime-resolved small-angle neutron scattering measurements, exploiting the scattering length difference between fully protonated and deuterated isotopologues of guest compounds and employing fully deuterated syndiotactic polystyrene as the host matrix to avoid strong incoherent scattering. In this study, the guest-exchange process induced by exposure to the gas of small guest molecules was followed by monitoring of the reflections from crystalline lamellae. The lamellar reflections showed significant variations in intensity during the guest exchange, from which the diffusion coefficients of the guest molecules in the crystalline region could be evaluated.
Embracing sustainability practices in UK construction organizations
Authors: Opoku Alex , Ahmed Vian
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– Adopting sustainable construction practices minimizes the overall environmental impact of the built asset throughout its whole life. Currently, there is demand from key stakeholders in the construction industry for organization to deliver sustainable built environment, however, leaders/champions within construction organizations charged with the adoption of sustainable construction practices face many challenges. The purpose of this paper is to present the results of an investigation into the challenges facing intra-organizational leaders charged with the promotion of sustainable construction practices.

Design/methodology/approach

– Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interview with 15 leaders, followed by an industry-wide survey of 200 intra-organizational leaders in contractor and consultant organizations in the UK construction industry.

Findings

– The results revealed that increased capital cost is the most significant challenge facing construction organizations in attempt to adopt sustainability practices in the delivery of construction projects.

Originality/value

– This study provides the empirical evidence linking leadership within construction organizations and sustainability; filling the gap in literature and serving as a source of reference material for higher education programmes in the built environment.
A game-theoretic model for roadway performance management
Authors: Osman Hesham , Nikbakht Mazdak
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to present a socio-technical approach to modeling the behavior of roadway users, asset managers, and politicians toward roadway performance and asset management. This approach models the complex interactions that occur between these agents in a complex system. Most modeling approaches in the domain of infrastructure asset management take a purely asset-centric approach and fail to address these socio-technical interactions.

Design/methodology/approach

– Interactions among political decision makers, asset management strategy developers, and road users are modeled using a game-theoretic approach. The interactions are modeled as a non-cooperative game in which politicians, asset managers, and road users are the main players. Each player is autonomous and aims to come up with the set of moves to maximize their respective level of satisfaction in response to other players’ moves. Multi-attribute utility theory is used to deal with multitude of players’ goals, and the Nash equilibria of the game are south out to develop appropriate strategies for different players.

Findings

– An illustrative example for a road network of a Canadian city is used to demonstrate the developed methodology. The developed methodology demonstrates how behaviors of various agents involved in the sphere of asset management impacts their collective decision-making behavior.

Originality/value

– The developed framework provides asset managers and political decision makers with a valuable tool to evaluate the impact of public policy decisions related to asset managers on road performance and the overall satisfaction of road users.
Stakeholders’ expectations in utilising financial models for public-private partnership projects
Authors: Kurniawan Fredy , Ogunlana Stephen , Motawa Ibrahim
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to explore stakeholders’ expectations in utilising PPP financial models in order to ensure that each stakeholder understands the expectations of others before negotiating and reaching contract agreement by all the stakeholders.

Design/methodology/approach

– Five common sets of 40 expectations have been identified through a systematic research approach, and their relative significances were verified based on pilot studies in India and the UK and expert opinion solicited worldwide through a structured questionnaire survey. The survey responses were evaluated by using statistical analyses.

Findings

– The most important stakeholders’ expectations in utilising PPP financial models were identified at five different stages in a project. They are bankable (at the pre-proposal stage), assessment of project's ability to carry senior debt (at the contract negotiation stage), sensitivity analysis for key commercial issues (at the finance-raising stage), debt service evaluation towards cost overrun and other adverse events (at the construction stage), and assurance of secure operational cash flow (at the operation stage). Although some of the most important expectations are agreed on by all stakeholders, the disagreement of most important expectations should also be considered by the other stakeholder(s) in order to achieve effective and efficient negotiations.

Originality/value

– The paper draws attention to stakeholders’ expectations in utilising a financial model that is arguably overlooked in evaluating PPP projects. It does so in order to speed up the negotiation process as a means of minimising cost and time expenditures on PPP contract negotiation.
Potential and implications of sustainability action plans
Authors: Thomson Craig , El-Haram Mohamed
Published: January 2014

Purpose

– Sustainability action plans are emerging as a management tool to facilitate the delivery of sustainability objectives which are planned, measured and achievable in practice. The purpose of this paper is to explore the potential to support an integrated approach to delivering sustainability across the phases of a construction project. A holistic approach to sustainability is promoted which aims to be understandable, managed and aligned with available sustainability assessment methods.

Design/methodology/approach

– The application of a sustainability action plan is explored in the Greater Middlehaven Regeneration Project (UK). Six key stakeholders were interviewed to consider the rational of its application, structure, role of sustainability assessment and contribution to project development and delivery. Two workshops involving practitioners and experts in sustainable construction explored the implications for the wider context.

Findings

– A framework around which sustainability can be managed through a series of integrated tailored action plans applied across each project phase was highlighted. Clear benefits were presented in facilitating the sharing of knowledge, communicating aspirations and in providing leadership to project members.

Research limitations/implications

– The case study enjoys a supportive environment to embed best practice and thus full appreciation of potential barriers to implementation in other contexts was not possible.

Practical implications

– The research illustrates the need to promote a common sustainability legacy across the project phases and highlights the role of a sustainability action plan in facilitating this consistency.

Originality/value

– A holistic approach founded on an understandable philosophy remains innovative in practice and explored are its value and implications.