bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Floodplain ecosystem dynamics under extreme dry and wet phases in semi‐arid Australia
Authors: Bino Gilad , Wassens Skye , Kingsford Richard T. , Thomas Rachael F. , Spencer Jennifer
Published: December 2017

Ecological networks are a cornerstone of ecological theory, offering an integrated approach to understanding food webs and ecosystem dynamics required for restoration and conservation ecology.

We investigated ecological network dynamics in a large floodplain undergoing extreme variation in water availability, with drought and subsequent flooding representing a resource pulse. We used structural equation models to quantify ecological network dynamics for the Lowbidgee floodplain (Australia), based on surveys over 5 years while the floodplain transitioned from extremely dry (2009, 2010) to wet (2011) and post‐wet (2013, 2014) conditions.

We identified significant associations of species and trophic guilds with inundation at the site and floodplain scale, which allowed us to quantify the strength of biotic interactions within the network and the stability of interactions under differing patterns of resource availability. At the floodplain scale, most taxa responded strongly in distribution and abundance to the 2011 resource pulse, a widespread flood, but this response did not persist during subsequent years of moderate floods. In contrast, fish species, both native and exotic, responded strongly only in the post‐wet period. At the fine spatial scale (i.e., sites), complex responses were observed, with only waterbirds, frogs and tadpoles positively associated with inundation, while fish species showed a range of associations with fine‐scale inundation. Biotic interactions within sites, across all trophic guilds, were predominately overridden by inundation and water temperature, mediated by strong associations with aquatic vegetation.

Stratifying the ecological network to dry, wet and post‐wet periods highlighted varying associations of taxa with fine‐scale inundation, generally responding synchronously to resource pulses, with relatively weak biotic interactions. Associations with site‐scale inundation were strongest during the post‐wet period for fishes and frogs. Only Litoria spp. (Hylidae) tadpoles, waterbirds and aquatic vegetation had positive associations with site‐scale inundation during the dry period.

We conclude that responses of trophic guilds are largely dependent on the way they interact with their environment at particular spatial and temporal scales. Our investigation of this ecological network reinforced the importance of hydrological drivers over biotic interactions, with clear implications for the management of environmental flows, particularly in systems recovering from long‐term flow alteration. Management efforts should focus environmental flows to promote specialist species (e.g., southern bell frog, Litoria raniformis) and Murray hardyhead (Craterocephalus fluviatilis: Atherinidae), waterbirds and aquatic vegetation over the more generalist fish species that have established because of the loss of the natural flow regime.
The promise and perils of using big data in the study of corporate networks: problems, diagnostics and fixes
Authors: HEEMSKERK EELKE , YOUNG KEVIN , TAKES FRANK W. , CRONIN BRUCE , GARCIA‐BERNARDO JAVIER , HENRIKSEN LASSE F. , WINECOFF WILLIAM KINDRED , POPOV VLADIMIR , LAURIN‐LAMOTHE AUDREY
Published: December 2017

Network data on connections between corporate actors and entities – for instance through co‐ownership ties or elite social networks – are increasingly available to researchers interested in probing the many important questions related to the study of modern capitalism. Given the analytical challenges associated with the nature of the subject matter, variable data quality and other problems associated with currently available data on this scale, we discuss the promise and perils of using big corporate network data (BCND). We propose a standard procedure for helping researchers deal with BCND problems. While acknowledging that different research questions require different approaches to data quality, we offer a schematic platform that researchers can follow to make informed and intelligent decisions about BCND issues and address these through a specific work‐flow procedure. For each step in this procedure, we provide a set of best practices for how to identify, resolve and minimize the BCND problems that arise.
National conceptions, transnational solidarities: Turkey, Islam and Europe
Authors: ÇITAK ZANA
Published: December 2017

In this article, I examine the interplay between the institutionalization of Islam in Europe and the transnationalism of Turkey's Directorate for Religious Affairs (Diyanet). Based on extensive fieldwork in Turkey, Austria, Belgium, France and Germany, I demonstrate not only the salience of the nation‐state prerogative on the part of both European states and the Turkish state but also the tension between national conceptions of Muslim identity on both sides amid transnational solidarities. I also argue that, to a certain extent, European policies of detransnationalizing the Muslim field in Europe also intersect with theDiyanet's transnational politics vis‐à‐vis Turkish/Muslim immigrants in their common resistance to the deculturalization of Muslims in Europe. While European countries try to nationalize their respective Muslim communities into their cultural and juridical framework through reterritorialization, theDiyanethas increasingly deterritorialized its activities to preserve a Muslim identity engrained in Turkishness – hence, the coexistence of both a tension and mutual accommodation between Europe and Turkey.
Effect of precoated carbon layer on microstructure and anti‐erosion properties of SiC coating for 2D‐C/C composites
Authors: Shi Wei , Tan Yi , Hao Jianjie , Li Jiayan
Published: December 2017

To improve the erosion resistant of carbon‐carbon composites, an SiC coating was synthesized on carbon‐carbon composites by the in situ reaction method. They are firstly coated with carbon layer by slurry, and then SiC coatings are obtained by chemical vapor reaction. The effects of precoated carbon layer on the microstructure and anti‐erosion properties of SiC‐coated C‐C composites were studied and characterized. The thickness of the SiC coating increased with the increase in the precoated carbon layer thickness. The different thickness of carbon layer affects hardness of the SiC coatings, resulting in diverse erosion resistance of the coatings. The SiC coating prepared with moderate thickness of precoated carbon layer exhibits the best erosion resistance, and show better resistance at an impact angle of 30° than 90°. The eroded surface revealed that coating cracking and brittle fracture, fiber‐matrix debonding, fiber breakage, and material removal, and the additional microcutting and microploughing at oblique impact angle are the major erosion mechanism of SiC coating for C/C composites.
Systematic review and meta‐analysis on the efficacy and tolerability of mirabegron for the treatment of storage lower urinary tract symptoms/overactive bladder: Comparison with placebo and tolterodine
Authors: Sebastianelli Arcangelo , Russo Giorgio I , Kaplan Steven A , McVary Kevin T , Moncada Ignacio , Gravas Stavros , Chapple Christopher , Morgia Giuseppe , Serni Sergio , Gacci Mauro
Published: December 2017

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was carried out to evaluate the efficacy and safety of mirabegron 50 mg and 100 mg in the treatment of storage lower urinary tract symptoms/overactive bladder in comparison with a placebo and tolterodine 4 mg. A total of 491 articles were collected and eight randomized studies were identified as eligible for this meta‐analysis. Overall, eight trials were included in the meta‐analysis evaluating 10 248 patients. Mirabegron at both doses of 50 mg and 100 mg, and and tolterodine 4 mg were significantly associated with the reduction of incontinence episodes per 24 h, reduction of mean number of micturitions per 24 h, increase of voided volume and reduction of urgency episodes per 24 h, compared to a placebo. Both mirabegron 50 mg and mirabegron 100 mg were associated with a significant reduction of nocturia episodes when compared with a placebo. Conversely, tolterodine 4 mg did not prove to be more effective than a placebo in the reduction of nocturia episodes. Furthermore, mirabegron 50 mg showed a slightly, but significantly, better efficacy than tolterodine 4 mg in the improvement of nocturia episodes. Mirabegron 50 mg and mirabegron 100 mg shared the same risk of overall treatment‐emergent adverse events rate with the placebo. Otherwise, tolterodine 4 mg was associated with a significantly greater risk than the placebo. However, mirabegron 100 mg showed a slight trend toward an increased risk of hypertension (odds ratio 1.41; P = 0.08) and cardiac arrhythmia (odds ratio 2.18; P = 0.06). Mirabegron is an effective treatment for patients with storage lower urinary tract symptoms/overactive bladder, providing a reduction of incontinence, urgency and frequency; an improvement of voided volume with a slight, but statistically, significant improvement of nocturia; with a good safety profile. These findings should be considered for the treatment planning of patients with storage lower urinary tract symptoms/overactive bladder.
Current status of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate
Authors: Shigemura Katsumi , Fujisawa Masato
Published: December 2017

There are several options for the surgical management of benign prostatic hyperplasia representatively from transurethral resection of the prostate. Holmium laser enucleation of the prostate is one of those options, and many institutions and urologists have initiated this technique, and most of them have accomplished better outcomes compared with transurethral resection of the prostate. In contrast to transurethral resection of the prostate, which requires a similar procedure to transurethral resection of bladder tumors, holmium laser enucleation of the prostate requires a special surgical technique: enucleation and morcellation with around 10 years’ history of experience, even in Japan. The present review introduces the current status of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate, so that it surely contributes to the knowledge of International Journal of Urology readers who could be experienced surgeons or beginners as well.
Homeodomain‐interacting protein kinase phosphorylates the Drosophila Paired box protein 6 (Pax6) homologues Twin of eyeless and Eyeless
Authors: Steinmetz E. L. , Dewald D. N. , Walldorf U.
Published: December 2017

Homeodomain‐interacting protein kinase (Hipk), the Drosophila homologue of mammalian HIPK2, plays several important roles in regulating differentiation, proliferation, apoptosis, and stress responses and acts as a mediator for signals of diverse pathways, such as Notch or Wingless signalling. The Paired box protein 6 (Pax6) has two Drosophila homologues, Twin of eyeless (Toy) and Eyeless (Ey). Both stand atop the retinal determination gene network (RDGN), which is essential for proper eye development in Drosophila. Here, we set Hipk and the master regulators Toy and Ey in an enzyme–substrate relationship. Furthermore, we prove a physical interaction between Toy and Hipk in vivo using bimolecular fluorescence complementation. Using in vitro kinase assays with different truncated Toy constructs and mutational analyses, we mapped four Hipk phosphorylation sites of Toy, one in the paired domain (Ser121) and three in the C‐terminal transactivation domain of Toy (Thr395, Ser410 and Thr452). The interaction and phosphorylation of the master regulator Toy by Hipk may be important for precise tuning of signalling within the RDGN and therefore for Drosophila eye development.
Mediating Role of Psychological Capital in the Relationship between Social Support and Wellbeing of Refugees
Authors: Newman Alexander , Nielsen Ingrid , Smyth Russell , Hirst Giles
Published: December 2017

This study examines the relationship between social support from work and non‐work domains and the wellbeing of refugee employees. In addition, it examines the mediating influence of psychological capital on these relationships. Using data from 190 refugee employees living in Australia, we find that while perceived organizational support and perceived family support are positively related to the wellbeing of refugee employees, the relationship between perceived supervisor support and wellbeing is not significant. Additionally, while we find that PsyCap fully mediates the relationship between perceived organizational support and wellbeing, it only partially mediates the relationship between perceived family support and wellbeing.
Non‐diabetic renal disease in patients with type 2 diabetes: a single centre study
Authors: Fan Jian‐Zhen , Wang Rong
Published: December 2017

Background

Non‐diabetic renal disease (NDRD) has been widely known in diabetic patients. The clinical differentiation between diabetic nephropathy (DN) and NDRD is still not so clear and effective.

Aim

To analyse the pathological characteristics and distribution of renal injury in selected type 2 diabetic patients. Comparison between DN and NDRD in clinical characteristics, to find important predictors for NDRD.

Methods

To conduct retrospective analysis of clinical, laboratory and pathohistological data of type 2 diabetic patients in whom renal biopsies were performed from March 2010 to September 2014 in Shandong Provincial Hospital affiliated to Shandong University (n = 88).

Results

According to the findings of renal biopsy, the incidences of DN, NDRD and DN complicated with NDRD were 20.46, 72.73 and 6.82% respectively. The most common NDRD found were: membranous nephropathy, followed by IgA nephropathy and focal segmental glomerulosclerosis. In multivariate logistic‐analysis, fasting blood glucose (odds ratio (OR) 0.714; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.543–0.939; P = 0.016) and absence of diabetic retinopathy (OR 18.602; 95% CI = 2.176–159.018; P = 0.003) were independent predictors of NDRD.

Conclusions

This study confirmed a considerably high prevalence of NDRD in type 2 diabetic patients with renal injury. As some cases of NDRD are readily treatable or remittable, we should consider renal biopsy in selected diabetic patients with renal involvement, especially in those with effective blood glucose control and the absence of diabetic retinopathy.
The use of psychiatry‐focused simulation in undergraduate nursing education: A systematic search and review
Authors: Vandyk Amanda D. , Lalonde Michelle , Merali Sabrina , Wright Erica , Bajnok Irmajean , Davies Barbara
Published: December 2017

Evidence on the use of simulation to teach psychiatry and mental health (including addiction) content is emerging, yet no summary of the implementation processes or associated outcomes exists. The aim of this study was to systematically search and review empirical literature on the use of psychiatry‐focused simulation in undergraduate nursing education. Objectives were to (i) assess the methodological quality of existing evidence on the use of simulation to teach mental health content to undergraduate nursing students, (ii) describe the operationalization of the simulations, and (iii) summarize the associated quantitative and qualitative outcomes. We conducted online database (MEDLINE, Embase, ERIC, CINAHL, PsycINFO from January 2004 to October 2015) and grey literature searches. Thirty‐two simulation studies were identified describing and evaluating six types of simulations (standardized patients, audio simulations, high‐fidelity simulators, virtual world, multimodal, and tabletop). Overall, 2724 participants were included in the studies. Studies reflected a limited number of intervention designs, and outcomes were evaluated with qualitative and quantitative methods incorporating a variety of tools. Results indicated that simulation was effective in reducing student anxiety and improving their knowledge, empathy, communication, and confidence. The summarized qualitative findings all supported the benefit of simulation; however, more research is needed to assess the comparative effectiveness of the types of simulations. Recommendations from the findings include the development of guidelines for educators to deliver each simulation component (briefing, active simulation, debriefing). Finally, consensus around appropriate training of facilitators is needed, as is consistent and agreed upon simulation terminology.
Survival of extensive restorations in primary molars: 15‐year practice‐based study
Authors: Tseveenjav Battsetseg , Furuholm Jussi , Mulic Aida , Valen Håkon , Maisala Tuomo , Turunen Seppo , Varsio Sinikka , Auero Merja , Tjäderhane Leo
Published: December 2017

Background

Caries decline in the western world is accompanied by strong polarization among children; 8% of Finnish 5‐year‐olds having 76% of untreated caries. This high caries risk group needs preventive and restorative strategies.

Aim

To explore survival of extensive restorations in primary molars.

Design

This study was based on health records from 2002 to 2016 of children under 18 years.

Results

Of severely affected primary molars (n = 1061), 41% were restored with preformed metal crowns (PMCs), 38% with glass‐ionomer cement (GIC)/polyacid‐modified resin composite (PAMRC)/resin‐modified GIC (RMGIC), and 21% with resin composites (RC). Younger children (3–8) received 97% of the PMCs and 86% of GIC/PAMRC/RMGIC; older ones (≥9) 91% of the RC restorations. Neither amalgam nor indirect restorations were registered. General dentists (GDs) engaged in primary care restored with GIC/PAMRC/RMGIC (52%) or RC (48%). GDs in general anesthesia care service placed 66% and specializing/specialized dentists 31% of PMCs. PMCs had lower failure rate (1.4% vs 3.0%) than GIC/PAMRC/RMGIC (P = 0.001). Choosing PMCs reduced patient visits compared to other restorations (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Severely affected primary molars of children at high caries risk are better managed, using PMCs to optimize the resources in public oral health services.
Comparative morphology of surface ultrastructure of diphyllobothriidean tapeworms (Cestoda: Diphyllobothriidea)
Authors: Yoneva Aneta , Scholz Tomáš , Kuchta Roman
Published: December 2017

Microtriches on the scolices and adjacent strobila of seven species of diphyllobothriidean cestodes (Bothridium pithonis, Cephalochlamys namaquensis, Dibothriocephalus latus, Duthiersia expansa, D. fimbriata, Ligula intestinalis, and Schistocephalus solidus) from different hosts (frogs, snakes, lizards, birds, and mammals) and biogeographic areas were examined using scanning and transmission electron microscopy. The basic structure of the tegument of the seven species studied does not differ markedly from that found in other cestodes. The main characteristic is the presence of electron‐dense bodies and vesicles in the distal cytoplasm. However, this study has shown differences in the morphology of microtriches even among species of the same family. Two different types of microtriches were found, filitriches and spinitriches, with the latter represented by two forms. Our study reveals that capilliform filitriches are most commonly found in Diphyllobothriidea. They were observed mainly on the strobila and the scolices of all but one studied species; individuals of L. intestinalis bore only coniform spinitriches on their surface. The same type of microtriches was found on the cirrus in D. latus. Gladiate spinitriches covered the scolex in both species of Duthiersia, and gladiate spinitriches interspersed with capilliform filitriches were observed on the anterior part of the strobila in D. fimbriata and the posterior part of the scolex in B. pithonis. Individuals of C. namaquensis were covered only by small acicular filitriches. No obvious pattern in the type and distribution of microtriches was observed among species that belong to different families and parasitize distantly related definitive hosts.
The latest thinking about the taxonomy of great apes
Authors: Groves C. P.
Published: December 2017

The orangutan (genus Pongo), gorilla (genus Gorilla) and chimpanzee (genus Pan), constituting the great apes, were once thought of as a homogeneous family Pongidae, related to but distinct from our own family Hominidae. It is now known, however, that chimpanzees are more closely related to humans (genus Homo) than they are to other great apes, while gorillas are more closely related to the chimpanzee–human duo than they are to orangutans. The family Pongidae has been abolished and all great apes appear in the family Hominidae, with two subfamilies: Ponginae for the orangutan and Homininae for the gorillas, chimpanzees and humans. This paper provides an up‐to‐date description of our understanding of the taxonomy of great apes at the time of writing. Furthermore, because non‐human great apes are very like humans, not only genetically and anatomically but also cognitively, there is a responsibility to afford these species dignity and a degree of freedom of choice in their surroundings and husbandry processes if they are kept in zoos.
Pollen‐derived biomes in the Eastern Mediterranean–Black Sea–Caspian‐Corridor
Authors: Marinova Elena , Harrison Sandy P. , Bragg Fran , Connor Simon , de Laet Veronique , Leroy Suzanne A.G. , Mudie Petra , Atanassova Juliana , Bozilova Elissaveta , Caner Hülya , Cordova Carlos , Djamali Morteza , Filipova‐Marinova Mariana , Gerasimenko Natalia , Jahns Susanne , Kouli Katerina , Kotthoff Ulrich , Kvavadze Eliso , Lazarova Maria , Novenko Elena , Ramezani Elias , Röpke Astrid , Shumilovskikh Lyudmila , Tanţǎu Ioan , Tonkov Spassimir
Published: December 2017

Aim

To evaluate the biomization technique for reconstructing past vegetation in the Eastern Mediterranean–Black Sea–Caspian‐Corridor using an extensive modern pollen data set and comparing reconstructions to potential vegetation and observed land cover data.

Location

The region between 28–48°N and 22–62°E.

Methods

We apply the biomization technique to 1,387 modern pollen samples, representing 1,107 entities, to reconstruct the distribution of 13 broad vegetation categories (biomes). We assess the results using estimates of potential natural vegetation from the European Vegetation Map and the Physico‐Geographic Atlas of the World. We test whether anthropogenic disturbance affects reconstruction quality using land use information from the Global Land Cover data set.

Results

The biomization scheme successfully predicts the broadscale patterns of vegetation across the region, including changes with elevation. The technique discriminates deserts from shrublands, the prevalence of woodlands in moister lowland sites, and the presence of temperate and mixed forests at higher elevations. Quantitative assessment of the reconstructions is less satisfactory: the biome is predicted correctly at 44% of the sites in Europe and 33% of the sites overall. The low success rate is not a reflection of anthropogenic impacts: only 33% of the samples are correctly assigned after the removal of sites in anthropogenically altered environments. Open vegetation is less successfully predicted (33%) than forest types (73%), reflecting the under‐representation of herbaceous taxa in pollen assemblages and the impact of long‐distance pollen transport into open environments. Samples from small basins (<1 km2) are more likely to be reconstructed accurately, with 58% of the sites in Europe and 66% of all sites correctly predicted, probably because they sample an appropriate pollen source area to reflect regional vegetation patterns in relatively heterogeneous landscapes. While methodological biases exist, the low confidence of the quantitative comparisons should not be over‐emphasized because the target maps themselves are not accurate representations of vegetation patterns in this region.

Main Conclusions

The biomization scheme yields reasonable reconstructions of the broadscale vegetation patterns in the Eastern Mediterranean–Black Sea–Caspian‐Corridor, particularly if appropriate‐sized sampling sites are used. Our results indicate biomization could be used to reconstruct changing patterns of vegetation in response to past climate changes in this region.
OTS1‐dependent deSUMOylation increases tolerance to high copper levels in Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhan Erbao , Zhou Huapeng , Li Sha , Liu Lei , Tan Tinghong , Lin Honghui
Published: December 2017

The conjugation of SUMO (small ubiquitin‐like modifier) to protein substrates is a reversible process (SUMOylation/deSUMOylation) that regulates plant development and stress responses. The essential metal copper (Cu) is required for normal plant growth, but excess amounts are toxic. The SUMO E3 ligase, SIZ1, and SIZ1‐mediated SUMOylation function in plant tolerance to excess Cu. It is unknown whether deSUMOylation also contributes to Cu tolerance in plants. Here, we report that OTS1, a protease that cleaves SUMO from its substrate proteins, participates in Cu tolerance in Arabidopsis thaliana (Arabidopsis). OTS1 loss‐of‐function mutants (ots1‐2 and ots1‐3) displayed increased sensitivity to excess Cu. Redox homeostasis and the balance between SUMOylation and deSUMOylation were disrupted in the ots1‐3 mutant under excess Cu conditions. The ots1‐3 mutant accumulated higher levels of Cu in both shoots and roots compared to wild type. Specific Cu‐related metal transporter genes were upregulated due to the loss‐of‐function of OTS1, which might explain the high Cu levels in ots1‐3. These results suggest that the SUMOylation/deSUMOylation machinery is activated in response to excess Cu, and modulates Cu homeostasis and tolerance by regulating both Cu uptake and detoxification. Together, our findings provide insight into the biological function and regulatory role of SUMOylation/deSUMOylation in plant tolerance to Cu.
The dioxygenase GIM2 functions in seed germination by altering gibberellin production in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xiong Wei , Ye Tiantian , Yao Xuan , Liu Xiong , Ma Sheng , Chen Xi , Chen Ming‐Luan , Feng Yu‐Qi , Wu Yan
Published: December 2017

The phytohormones gibberellic acid (GA) and abscisic acid (ABA) antagonistically control seed germination. High levels of GA favor seed germination, whereas high levels of ABA hinder this process. The direct relationship between GA biosynthesis and seed germination ability need further investigation. Here, we identified the ABA‐insensitive gain‐of‐function mutant germination insensitive to ABA mutant 2 (gim2) by screening a population of XVE T‐DNA‐tagged mutant lines. Based on two loss‐of‐function gim2‐ko mutant lines, the disruption of GIM2 function caused a delay in seed germination. By contrast, upregulation of GIM2 accelerated seed germination, as observed in transgenic lines overexpressing GIM2 (OE). We detected a reduction in endogenous bioactive GA levels and an increase in endogenous ABA levels in the gim2‐ko mutants compared to wild type. Conversely, the OE lines had increased endogenous bioactive GA levels and decreased endogenous ABA levels. The expression levels of a set of GA‐ and/or ABA‐related genes were altered in both the gim2‐ko mutants and the OE lines. We confirmed that GIM2 has dioxygenase activity using an in vitro enzyme assay, observing that GIM2 can oxidize GA12. Hence, our characterization of GIM2 demonstrates that it plays a role in seed germination by affecting the GA metabolic pathway in Arabidopsis.
Hexokinase 2‐dependent hyperglycolysis driving microglial activation contributes to ischemic brain injury
Authors: Li Yuan , Lu Bingzheng , Sheng Longxiang , Zhu Zhu , Sun Hongjiaqi , Zhou Yuwei , Yang Yang , Xue Dongdong , Chen Wenli , Tian Xuyan , Du Yun , Yan Min , Zhu Wenbo , Xing Fan , Li Kai , Lin Suizhen , Qiu Pengxin , Su Xingwen , Huang Yijun , Yan Guangmei , Yin Wei
Published: December 2017

Hyperglycolysis, observed within the penumbra zone during brain ischemia, was shown to be detrimental for tissue survival because of lactate accumulation and reactive oxygen species overproduction in clinical and experimental settings. Recently, mounting evidence suggests that glycolytic reprogramming and induced metabolic enzymes can fuel the activation of peripheral immune cells. However, the possible roles and details regarding hyperglycolysis in neuroinflammation during ischemia are relatively poorly understood. Here, we investigated whether overactivated glycolysis could activate microglia and identified the crucial regulators of neuroinflammatory responses in vitro and in vivo. Using BV 2 and primary microglial cultures, we found hyperglycolysis and induction of the key glycolytic enzyme hexokinase 2 (HK2) were essential for microglia‐mediated neuroinflammation under hypoxia. Mechanistically, HK2 up‐regulation led to accumulated acetyl‐coenzyme A, which accounted for the subsequent histone acetylation and transcriptional activation of interleukin (IL)‐1β. The inhibition and selective knockdown of HK2 in vivo significantly protected against ischemic brain injury by suppressing microglial activation and IL‐1β production in male Sprague–Dawley rats subjected to transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAo) surgery. We provide novel insights for HK2 specifically serving as a neuroinflammatory determinant, thus explaining the neurotoxic effect of hyperglycolysis and indicating the possibility of selectively targeting HK2 as a therapeutic strategy in acute ischemic stroke.

image
Neck Vessel Cross‐Sectional Area Measured with MRI: Scan‐Rescan Reproducibility for Longitudinal Evaluations
Authors: Pelizzari Laura , Laganà Maria Marcella , Jakimovski Dejan , Bergsland Niels , Hagemeier Jesper , Baselli Giuseppe , Zivadinov Robert
Published: December 2017

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The cross‐sectional area (CSA) of common carotid arteries‐internal carotid arteries (CCA‐ICAs), vertebral arteries (VAs), and internal jugular veins (IJVs) is influenced by aging. However, the neck vessel CSA can be affected by other factors as well, including subject positioning, hydration, and respiration, especially in longitudinal studies. This study aimed to assess scan‐rescan reproducibility of CCA‐ICAs, VAs, and IJVs CSA measurements in order to evaluate their feasibility for longitudinal CSA assessments, and to apply the segmentation method on a longitudinal pilot dataset.

METHODS

Two set of 2‐dimensional neck magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) images were acquired on a 3‐T scanner from two separate datasets: 9 healthy individuals (HIs) were scanned 5 days apart (scan‐rescan dataset) and 12 HIs were acquired 5 years apart (baseline‐follow‐up dataset). CCA‐ICAs, VAs, and IJVs were segmented along the whole vessel length between C3 and C7 intervertebral spaces. Repeated measure analysis of covariance, adjusted for cervical level and sample, and Wilcoxon signed‐rank sum test were used to assess the scan‐rescan and baseline‐follow‐up CSA differences. Intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) was also computed to evaluate scan‐rescan reliability.

RESULTS

No significant CSA differences were found for the scan‐rescan and baseline‐follow‐up CSA comparisons, using the whole vessel length or single cervical level measurements. ICC analysis showed good degree of scan‐rescan reproducibility (considering whole vessel measures: ICC > .9, P‐value < .001 for CCA‐ICAs, ICC > .6, P‐value < .001 for VAs, and ICC > .7, P‐value < .001 for IJVs).

CONCLUSIONS

Scan‐rescan reproducibility of CCA‐ICAs, VAs, and IJVs CSA measurements is high, making longitudinal studies feasible.
The effects of icariin on wound healing of extraction sites with administration of zoledronic and dexamethasone: A rat model study
Authors: Liu Jie , Mattheos Nikos , Su Cheng , Deng Chuanxi , Luo Nanyu , Wang Zekun , Tang Hua
Published: December 2017

Objective

This study was intended to investigate the effects of icariin on the healing of tooth extraction sites under the systemic administration of zoledronic and dexamethasone.

Method

Thirty female rats underwent bilateral ovariectomy and were randomly assigned to 5 groups: SS group received a weekly injection of saline, while ZD, ZD + LICA, ZD + MICA, and ZD + HICA groups received zoledronic with dexamethasone for 8 weeks. One week later, mandibular first molars were extracted in all groups. Then, 30, 60, and 120 mg/kg icariin were intragastrically given to ZD + LICA, ZD + MICA, and ZD + HICA groups daily for 10 weeks, while saline was given to SS group and ZD group. Blood samples and mandibles were harvested for examinations after 10 weeks.

Results

Significantly smaller wound area was noted in SS and ZD + HICA groups, but the incidence of bisphosphonate‐related osteonecrosis of the jaws (BRONJ) was not significantly different. Groups injected with zoledronic and dexamethasone had higher C‐terminal cross‐linked telopeptide of type 1 collagen (CTX‐1), tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b), and the number of osteoclast cells, with less vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and osteocalcin (OCN). In contrast, CTX‐1, TRACP 5b, and the number of osteoclast cells declined after using icariin and promoted VEGF and OCN were noted and the effects were in a dosage‐dependent manner.

Conclusion

Concurrent use of zoledronic and dexamethasone inhibits the expression of VEGF, OCN, and wound healing and increases the number of osteoclast cells, serum CTX‐1, and TRACP‐5b after discontinuation for 10 weeks. Icariin weakens those effects in a dose‐dependent manner but does not influence the onset of BRONJ.
Endogenous economic growth with disembodied knowledge
Authors: Marchese Carla , Privileggi Fabio
Published: December 2017

Mainstream endogenous growth models assume that new knowledge is embodied into either new intermediate or final goods, monopolistically supplied by the patent holder. Recent technological progress, however, often gives rise to pure intellectual contents, such as software codes or business models, directly usable in the production of final goods. Once a content of this type has been produced, it is in fixed supply, that is, the inventor can only rent it out (or sell it) or not; hence, the quantity restriction typical of monopoly cannot arise, while competition is viable. We show that, however, as long as the inventor owning a patent can control through license activation devices the access to the intellectual content of the workers using her invention in the final goods production, monopolistic exploitation becomes viable and will occur. It turns out that in this framework, the income share of labor is smaller than in the Lab‐Equipment economy, which represents the setting closest to our model. Moreover, with elastic labor supply labor employment is also negatively impacted. This implies that some standard public policies devised for correcting inefficiencies in development may perform poorly in this framework.
Inference on Multivariate Heteroscedastic Time Varying Random Coefficient Models
Authors: Giraitis Liudas , Kapetanios George , Yates Tony
Published: December 2017

In this article, we introduce the general setting of a multivariate time series autoregressive model with stochastic time‐varying coefficients and time‐varying conditional variance of the error process. This allows modelling VAR dynamics for non‐stationary time series and estimation of time‐varying parameter processes by the well‐known rolling regression estimation techniques. We establish consistency, convergence rates, and asymptotic normality for kernel estimators of the paths of coefficient processes and provide pointwise valid standard errors. The method is applied to a popular seven‐variable dataset to analyse evidence of time variation in empirical objects of interest for the DSGE (dynamic stochastic general equilibrium) literature.
Brontë Violations: Liminality, Transgression, and Lesbian Erotics in Charlotte Brontë'sJane Eyre
Authors: Morse Deborah Denenholz
Published: December 2017

Among the many 2016 works celebrating Charlotte Brontë's life and work in her bicentenary year, several essays were published that urge reinterpretation of her sexuality. Influenced by decades of work in gender studies, these essays intervene not only in Brontë scholarship but also more widely in long‐running debates on lesbian historiography of the 19th century that considers whether erotic attraction between women was manifested in passionate “romantic” friendship or in sexual practice.Jane Eyreincludes deep currents of lesbian desire, a reading that violently upends the marriage plot. The intense friendships that Jane finds with other women throughout her narrative pilgrimage have traditionally been viewed in Brontë scholarship from a biographical perspective or through the feminist lens of female community. This essay argues instead that Jane's Lowood relationships with Miss Temple and even more with Helen Burns are erotic, with desire and consummation frustrated. Further, memoirist and visual artist Jane painstakingly delineates other women in sketches or paintings as well as in her narrative, displaying a transgressive expression of lesbian desire under the cover of conventional feminine auspices that is most evident in the miniatures she creates of Blanche Ingram and Rosamond Oliver. If the most canonical Brontë novel – and one of the most canonical of all Victorian novels – can be newly interpreted in relation to lesbian desire, there is undoubtedly even more exciting scholarship to come not only on the Brontës' life and work but also on other Victorian novelists, particularly noncanonical writers.
Short‐term outcomes of paediatric liver transplant recipients after transition to Adult Healthcare Service
Authors: Ferrarese Alberto , Germani Giacomo , Lazzaro Silvia , Cananzi Mara , Russo Francesco Paolo , Senzolo Marco , Gambato Martina , Zanetto Alberto , Cillo Umberto , Gringeri Enrico , Perilongo Giorgio , Burra Patrizia
Published: December 2017

Background & Aims

Survival rates after liver transplantation (LT) in paediatric recipients have significantly improved over time. However, data regarding outcomes after transition from Paediatric to Adult Healthcare Service (AHS) are still lacking. Therefore, we aimed to prospectively evaluate the outcome of LT recipients after transition, to access patients' non‐adherence and identify potential risk factors for non‐adherence.

Methods

All consecutive adolescent LT recipients moving to the AHS at Padua University Hospital were evaluated between 2010 and 2015. Demographic data, liver function tests, incidence of acute or chronic rejection episodes and adherence to medical prescription, were prospectively evaluated. An educational pilot study was implemented since 2015 to foster adherence during transition.

Results

In all, 32 patients (M/F 16/16, median age: 23 years) were evaluated. Median interval time between LT and transition was 15 years (range: 1‐26 years). The main indication for LT was biliary atresia (31%), whereas immunosuppression regimen was tacrolimus‐based in 75%. After a median follow‐up of 29 months (range: 12‐83), no significant modifications of liver function tests were observed. Biopsy‐proven chronic rejection was diagnosed in 6/32 (18%) of patients, who had higher standard deviation of tacrolimus trough level than patients without (1.5 vs 1, P = .03). Non‐adherence was reported in 8/32 (25%) of patients and was significantly associated with alcohol consumption (P = .003). Patient and graft survival were 96% and 93%, respectively.

Conclusions

Adolescent LT patients who undergo transition to the AHS have good long‐term outcomes. However, a multidisciplinary approach aiming at fostering adherence should be used.
Macromtrium longipapillosum sp. nov. (Bryophyta, Orthotrichaceae) from Japan, with comments on M. comatum
Authors: Li Dan Dan , Yu Jing , Cao Tong , Guo Shui Liang
Published: December 2017

The new species Macromtrium longipapillosum D. D. Li, J. Yu, T. Cao & S. L. Guo from Japan is described and illustrated by line drawings and photographs. The new species can be distinguished from all congeners by the combination of the following features: 1) lanceolate to oblong‐lanceolate leaves with obtuse, acute to broadly acuminate apices; 2) upper and median laminal cells with thin and inflated walls, with a single, large, occasionally forked papilla, 7–14 μm, occasionally up to 18 μm, 3) basal cells near costae forming a ‘cancellina region’, 4) inner perichaetial leaves ovate lanceolate, abruptly narrowed to a long acuminate upper part; 5) short and left‐twisted seta; and 6) obloid capsules with well‐developed exostome teeth. We also revise the circumscription of Macromitrium comatum Mitt. and discuss the relationships of M. comatum with M. longipapillosum and other relevant species.
Galium ovitdaghense sp. nov. (Rubiaceae: Rubioideae) from northeastern Turkey
Authors: Daşkın Ruziye
Published: December 2017

A new species of Galium section Orientigalium, G. ovitdaghense Daşkın, is described and illustrated from Rize province, northeast Anatolia. The new species is similar to three Turkish Galium species, namely G. basalticum, G. membranaceum and G. shepardii. However, it is distinguished from these species by its oblanceolate‐oblong leaves with minutely antrorsely papillate‐denticulate margins, pinkish, infundibular corollas, ovate‐oblong, long‐acuminate corolla lobes and broadly reniform, subpapillate mericarps.
Species selection under long‐term experimental warming and drought explained by climatic distributions
Authors: Liu Daijun , Peñuelas Josep , Ogaya Romà , Estiarte Marc , Tielbörger Katja , Slowik Fabian , Yang Xiaohong , Bilton Mark C.
Published: December 2017

Global warming and reduced precipitation may trigger large‐scale species losses and vegetation shifts in ecosystems around the world. However, currently lacking are practical ways to quantify the sensitivity of species and community composition to these often‐confounded climatic forces.

Here we conducted long‐term (16 yr) nocturnal‐warming (+0.6°C) and reduced precipitation (−20% soil moisture) experiments in a Mediterranean shrubland. Climatic niche groups (CNGs) – species ranked or classified by similar temperature or precipitation distributions – informatively described community responses under experimental manipulations.

Under warming, CNGs revealed that only those species distributed in cooler regions decreased. Correspondingly, under reduced precipitation, a U‐shaped treatment effect observed in the total community was the result of an abrupt decrease in wet‐distributed species, followed by a delayed increase in dry‐distributed species. Notably, while partially correlated, CNG explanations of community response were stronger for their respective climate parameter, suggesting some species possess specific adaptations to either warming or drought that may lead to independent selection to the two climatic variables.

Our findings indicate that when climatic distributions are combined with experiments, the resulting incorporation of local plant evolutionary strategies and their changing dynamics over time leads to predictable and informative shifts in community structure under independent climate change scenarios.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi reduce nitrous oxide emissions from N2O hotspots
Authors: Storer Kate , Coggan Aisha , Ineson Phil , Hodge Angela
Published: December 2017

Nitrous oxide (N2O) is a potent, globally important, greenhouse gas, predominantly released from agricultural soils during nitrogen (N) cycling. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) form a mutualistic symbiosis with two‐thirds of land plants, providing phosphorus and/or N in exchange for carbon. As AMF acquire N, it was hypothesized that AMF hyphae may reduce N2O production.

AMF hyphae were either allowed (AMF) or prevented (nonAMF) access to a compartment containing an organic matter and soil patch in two independent microcosm experiments. Compartment and patch N2O production was measured both before and after addition of ammonium and nitrate.

In both experiments, N2O production decreased when AMF hyphae were present before inorganic N addition. In the presence of AMF hyphae, N2O production remained low following ammonium application, but increased in the nonAMF controls. By contrast, negligible N2O was produced following nitrate application to either AMF treatment.

Thus, the main N2O source in this system appeared to be via nitrification, and the production of N2O was reduced in the presence of AMF hyphae. It is hypothesized that AMF hyphae may be outcompeting slow‐growing nitrifiers for ammonium. This has significant global implications for our understanding of soil N cycling pathways and N2O production.
Evolution of microRNA827 targeting in the plant kingdom
Authors: Lin Wei‐Yi , Lin Yen‐Yu , Chiang Su‐Fen , Syu Cueihuan , Hsieh Li‐Ching , Chiou Tzyy‐Jen
Published: December 2017

Unlike most ancient microRNAs, which conservatively target homologous genes across species, microRNA827 (miR827) targets two different types of SPX (SYG1/PHO81/XPR1)‐domain‐containing genes, NITROGEN LIMITATION ADAPTATION (NLA) and PHOSPHATE TRANSPORTER 5 (PHT5), in Arabidopsis thaliana and Oryza sativa to regulate phosphate (Pi) transport and storage, respectively. However, how miR827 shifted its target preference and its evolutionary history are unknown.

Based on target prediction analysis, we found that in most angiosperms, miR827 conservatively targets PHT5 homologs, but in Brassicaceae and Cleomaceae it preferentially targets NLA homologs, and we provide evidence for the transition of target preference during Brassicales evolution. Intriguingly, we found a lineage‐specific loss of the miR827‐regulatory module in legumes.

Analysis of miR827‐mediated cleavage efficiency and the expression of PHT5 in A. thaliana indicated that accumulation of mutations in the target site and the exclusion of the target site by alternative transcriptional initiation eliminated PHT5 targeting by miR827.

Here, we identified a transition of miR827 target preference during plant evolution and revealed the uniqueness of miR827‐mediated regulation among conserved plant miRNAs. Despite the change in its target preference, upregulation of miR827 by Pi starvation and its role in regulating cellular Pi homeostasis were retained.
Fear of feces? Tradeoffs between disease risk and foraging drive animal activity around raccoon latrines
Authors: Weinstein Sara B. , Moura Chad W. , Mendez Jon Francis , Lafferty Kevin D.
Published: December 2017

Fear of predation alters prey behavior, which can indirectly alter entire landscapes. A parasite‐induced ecology of fear might also exist if animals avoid parasite‐contaminated resources when infection costs outweigh foraging benefits. To investigate whether animals avoid parasite contaminated sites, and if such avoidance balances disease costs and foraging gains, we monitored animal behavior at raccoon latrines – sites that concentrate both seeds and pathogenic parasite eggs. Using wildlife cameras, we documented over 40 potentially susceptible vertebrate species in latrines and adjacent habitat. Latrine contact rates reflected background activity, diet preferences and disease risk. Disease‐tolerant raccoons and rats displayed significant site attraction, while susceptible birds and small mammals avoided these high‐risk sites. This suggests that parasites, like predators, might create a landscape of fear for vulnerable hosts. Such non‐consumptive parasite effects could alter disease transmission, population dynamics, and even ecosystem structure.