bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Single-molecule tracking of small GTPase Rac1 uncovers spatial regulation of membrane translocation and mechanism for polarized signaling
Authors: Das Sulagna , Yin Taofei , Yang Qingfen , Zhang Jingqiao , Wu Yi I. , Yu Ji
Published: January 2015

Significance

Rac1 activation involves two steps: translocation to plasma membrane and nucleotide exchange. Most previous studies focused on the nucleotide exchange cycle. Here we sought to understand membrane translocation dynamics by developing a single-particle tracking-based method. The labeled Rac1 molecules were further adapted for simultaneous FRET sensing of Rac1 nucleotide state, enabling a simultaneous comparison between Rac1 translocation dynamics and its nucleotide exchange dynamics. Elevated membrane recruitment can contribute significantly to polarized Rac1-signaling. This finding draws attention to the importance of spatial regulation of the Rac1 translocation process in the regulation of RhoGTPase signaling. Rac1 recruitment to membrane precedes its interaction with protein factors (e.g., GEFs) and is governed by phospholipid distributions. This finding resolves a long-standing question of the mechanism of Rac1 activation.
Context-dependent categorical perception in a songbird
Authors: Lachlan Robert F. , Nowicki Stephen
Published: January 2015

Significance

Song-learning birds share several of the cognitive traits that underlie human speech. Continuous variation in swamp sparrow song notes, for example, is perceived in a categorical manner, similar to human perception of phonemes, the smallest units of human speech. Although speakers and listeners are generally unaware of the fact, many phonemic categories in speech vary in their structure and in how they are perceived, depending on linguistic context. Herein, we test how categorical perception in swamp sparrows is influenced by context and demonstrate that one note type is categorized differently, depending on its position within a song syllable. To our knowledge, our results suggest for the first time that this central characteristic of human phonology is also found in a nonhuman communication system.
K-Ras4A splice variant is widely expressed in cancer and uses a hybrid membrane-targeting motif
Authors: Tsai Frederick D. , Lopes Mathew S. , Zhou Mo , Court Helen , Ponce Odis , Fiordalisi James J. , Gierut Jessica J. , Cox Adrienne D. , Haigis Kevin M. , Philips Mark R.
Published: January 2015

Significance

The
KRAS
oncogene is mutated more frequently in human cancer than any other. The
KRAS
transcript is alternatively spliced to give rise to two products, K-Ras4A and K-Ras4B, both of which are oncogenic when
KRAS
is mutated. We detected significant amounts of each transcript in human tumor cells and colorectal carcinomas. We found that K-Ras4A is targeted to the plasma membrane by dual targeting motifs distinct from those of K-Ras4B. Because interfering with membrane association of Ras proteins remains one of the most attractive approaches to anti-Ras therapy, efforts in this direction will have to disrupt both the K-Ras4A and the K-Ras4B membrane-targeting pathways.
A
KIR B
centromeric region present in Africans but not Europeans protects pregnant women from pre-eclampsia
Authors: Nakimuli Annettee , Chazara Olympe , Hiby Susan E. , Farrell Lydia , Tukwasibwe Stephen , Jayaraman Jyothi , Traherne James A. , Trowsdale John , Colucci Francesco , Lougee Emma , Vaughan Robert W. , Elliott Alison M. , Byamugisha Josaphat , Kaleebu Pontiano , Mirembe Florence , Nemat-Gorgani Neda , Parham Peter , Norman Paul J. , Moffett Ashley
Published: January 2015

Significance

Pre-eclampsia is especially common in women of African ancestry and a major cause of maternal death. The killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor (
KIR
) genes that we analyzed are expressed by natural killer cells—immune cells that populate the uterus and are essential for successful pregnancy. KIR proteins bind HLA ligands on the implanting placental trophoblast cells. African and European women share similar risk associations for pre-eclampsia, but protection is associated with different
KIR
genes. African women are protected by a combination of
KIR B
haplotype genes that is present almost exclusively in Africans. This study emphasizes the importance of studying diseases in Africans, where the
KIR
/
HLA
genetic system is at its most diverse and maternal mortality rates are the highest in the world.
Social status modulates prosocial behavior and egalitarianism in preschool children and adults
Authors: Guinote Ana , Cotzia Ioanna , Sandhu Sanpreet , Siwa Pramila
Published: January 2015

Significance

Even though humans are the most altruistic species, disparities in prosocial orientation are common and occur across social groups that vary in education, sex roles, biology, and financial resources. In the present research, using different manipulations of social status—defined as the level of social prestige and reputation enjoyed by individuals in the eyes of others—we show that mere incidental low status triggers a prosocial orientation manifested in helping behavior, signaling communal intent, and the endorsement of egalitarian goals and values. These effects start to appear early in human ontogeny. The findings suggest that humans have basic cognitive and motivational programs that they use flexibly as they navigate unstable hierarchies typical in human societies.
Attenuation of sinking particulate organic carbon flux through the mesopelagic ocean
Authors: Marsay Chris M. , Sanders Richard J. , Henson Stephanie A. , Pabortsava Katsiaryna , Achterberg Eric P. , Lampitt Richard S.
Published: January 2015

Significance

A key factor regulating the air−sea balance of carbon dioxide (CO
2
) is the sinking of particles containing organic carbon from the surface to the deep ocean. The depth at which this carbon is released back into the water (remineralization) has a strong influence on atmospheric CO
2
concentration. Here we show a significant relationship between the remineralization depth of sinking organic carbon flux in the upper ocean and water temperature, with shallower remineralization in warmer waters. Our results contrast with data from deep-sea sediment traps, highlighting the importance of upper ocean remineralization to our understanding of the ocean’s biological carbon pump. Our results suggest that predicted future increases in ocean temperature will result in reduced CO
2
storage by the oceans.
Single-cell, real-time detection of oxidative stress induced in
Escherichia coli
by the antimicrobial peptide CM15
Authors: Choi Heejun , Yang Zhilin , Weisshaar James C.
Published: January 2015

Significance

Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) help to kill invading bacteria on skin and lung surfaces. We are developing fluorescence microscopy assays that reveal the mechanisms of action of AMPs in real time. It is increasingly clear AMP damage to bacterial cells goes far beyond permeabilization of membranes. Here we demonstrate that for
Escherichia coli
in aerobic conditions, the peptide CM15 [combining residues 1–7 of cecropin A (from moth) with residues 2–9 of melittin (bee venom)], induces a burst of biochemically harmful reactive oxygen species within 30 s of membrane permeabilization. In anaerobic conditions, CM15 is 20-fold less potent. AMP efficacy in vivo may be tuned to the local level of oxygenation.
Translatome analyses capture of opposing tissue-specific brassinosteroid signals orchestrating root meristem differentiation
Authors: Vragović Kristina , Sela Ayala , Friedlander-Shani Lilach , Fridman Yulia , Hacham Yael , Holland Neta , Bartom Elizabeth , Mockler Todd C. , Savaldi-Goldstein Sigal
Published: January 2015

Significance

Brassinosteroid (BR) differentially regulates the number of stem cell daughters in the root meristem. How its activity coordinates and maintains the meristem size remains unknown. We show that BR signal coordinates root growth by evoking distinct and often opposing responses in specific tissues. Whereas epidermal BR signal promotes stem cell daughter proliferation, the stele-derived BR signal induces their differentiation. Using a comprehensive tissue-specific translatome survey, we uncovered a context-specific effect of BR signaling on gene expression. Auxin genes, activated by epidermal BR perception, are necessary for induction of cell division. Conversely, the stele BR perception, accompanied by gene repression, restrains the epidermal effect. Therefore, a site-specific BR signal is essential for balanced organ growth.
Signature of consciousness in the dynamics of resting-state brain activity
Authors: Barttfeld Pablo , Uhrig Lynn , Sitt Jacobo D. , Sigman Mariano , Jarraya Béchir , Dehaene Stanislas
Published: January 2015

Significance

What are the origins of resting-state functional connectivity patterns? One dominating view is that they index ongoing cognitive processes. However, this conclusion is in conflict with studies showing that long-range functional connectivity persists after loss of consciousness, possibly reflecting structural connectivity maps. In this work we respond to this question showing that in fact both sources have a clear and separable contribution to resting-state patterns. We show that under anesthesia, the dominating functional configurations have low information capacity and lack negative correlations. Importantly, they are rigid, tied to the anatomical map. Conversely, wakefulness is characterized by the dynamical exploration of a rich, flexible repertoire of functional configurations. These dynamical properties constitute a signature of consciousness.
Groundwater sapping as the cause of irreversible desertification of Hunshandake Sandy Lands, Inner Mongolia, northern China
Authors: Yang Xiaoping , Scuderi Louis A. , Wang Xulong , Scuderi Louis J. , Zhang Deguo , Li Hongwei , Forman Steven , Xu Qinghai , Wang Ruichang , Huang Weiwen , Yang Shixia
Published: January 2015

Significance

In contrast to earlier assertions that deserts in northern China are 10
6
years old, our multidisciplinary investigation in the Hunshandake Sandy Lands, located in the eastern portion of China’s desert belt, shows that this desert is ca. 4,000 years old. This study documents dramatic environmental and landscape changes in this desert during the last 10,000 years. For the first time to our knowledge we present a case of desertification mainly triggered by changes in the hydrological and geomorphological system, associated with climate change at ca. 4.2 ka. Our research on the human–environment interactions in the Hunshandake suggests Chinese civilization may be rooted in the marginal areas in the north, rather than in the middle reaches of the Yellow River.
Acceleration of conduction velocity linked to clustering of nodal components precedes myelination
Authors: Freeman Sean A. , Desmazières Anne , Simonnet Jean , Gatta Marie , Pfeiffer Friederike , Aigrot Marie Stéphane , Rappeneau Quentin , Guerreiro Serge , Michel Patrick Pierre , Yanagawa Yuchio , Barbin Gilles , Brophy Peter J. , Fricker Desdemona , Lubetzki Catherine , Sol-Foulon Nathalie
Published: January 2015

Significance

Cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying the assembly of nodes of Ranvier of myelinated axons in the CNS are still only partly understood. Our study shows the influence of intrinsic cues and glial extrinsic factors for nodal protein clustering before myelination on specific hippocampal neuronal subpopulations and extends to electrophysiological understandings and in vivo relevance. Although conduction velocity along axons has long been thought to mostly rely on the insulating properties of myelin, we here show that nodal protein aggregation can increase this speed in the absence of such insulation. These results highlight the role of nodal clusters per se on conduction velocity by uncoupling it from myelination.
Targeted ablation of cholinergic interneurons in the dorsolateral striatum produces behavioral manifestations of Tourette syndrome
Authors: Xu Meiyu , Kobets Andrew , Du Jung-Chieh , Lennington Jessica , Li Lina , Banasr Mounira , Duman Ronald S. , Vaccarino Flora M. , DiLeone Ralph J. , Pittenger Christopher
Published: January 2015

Significance

Tic disorders, such as Tourette syndrome, are common but poorly understood. Postmortem studies have revealed the loss of a particular subset of neurons, the large cholinergic interneurons, in the caudate and putamen in severe disease. To test whether this neuronal loss leads to disease we turned to studies in mice, where questions of causality are more readily addressed. We developed a strategy for targeted ablation of these interneurons. Their disrupting in the dorsolateral striatum—roughly analogous to the putamen—produced abnormal tic-like movements after either acute stress or amphetamine treatment. This demonstrates, for the first time to our knowledge, that the loss of specific interneurons can cause behavioral changes in an animal model that resemble aspects of a movement disorder.
Experimental replacement of an obligate insect symbiont
Authors: Moran Nancy A. , Yun Yueli
Published: January 2015

Significance

In many invertebrates, development depends on obligate bacterial symbionts that are confined to specialized host cells and are transmitted directly from mother to progeny. A primary model for this kind of symbiosis is the
Buchnera
/pea aphid association, which has been maintained for more than 100 million years through strict maternal transmission. The intimacy of this symbiosis has thwarted experiments aimed at dissecting how symbiont and host genotypes contribute to overall phenotype and ecological tolerances. Using a selectable
Buchnera
phenotype combined with microinjection, we successfully replaced
Buchnera
within a matriline, thus generating matrilines with identical aphid genotypes but distinct
Buchnera
genotypes.
Buchnera
replacement dramatically increased heat tolerance of the aphid matriline, demonstrating directly that symbiont genotype can affect host ecology.
Finding long chains in kidney exchange using the traveling salesman problem
Authors: Anderson Ross , Ashlagi Itai , Gamarnik David , Roth Alvin E.
Published: January 2015

Significance

There are currently more than 100,000 patients on the waiting list in the United States for a kidney transplant from a deceased donor. To address this shortage, kidney exchange programs allow patients with living incompatible donors to exchange donors through cycles and chains initiated by altruistic nondirected donors. To determine which exchanges will take place, kidney exchange programs use algorithms for maximizing the number of transplants under constraints about the size of feasible exchanges. This problem is NP-hard, and algorithms previously used were unable to optimize when chains could be long. We developed two algorithms that use integer programming to solve this problem, one of which is inspired by the traveling salesman, that together can find optimal solutions in practice.
Novel neural circuit mechanism for visual edge detection
Authors: Stevens Charles F.
Published: January 2015

Significance

This paper is significant for three reasons. First, it proposes a new way that the visual cortex carries out a computation by simply having differing abundances of neurons that vary in a particular property (how large a piece of the visual world they report on). Second, it proposes a new use for population codes. Finally, it establishes the role for a quantitative anatomical feature of primary visual cortex: Abundances that differ in the way observed in experiment serve to apply an edge detection filter to the image.
Independent role for presynaptic FMRP revealed by an
FMR1
missense mutation associated with intellectual disability and seizures
Authors: Myrick Leila K. , Deng Pan-Yue , Hashimoto Hideharu , Oh Young Mi , Cho Yongcheol , Poidevin Mickael J. , Suhl Joshua A. , Visootsak Jeannie , Cavalli Valeria , Jin Peng , Cheng Xiaodong , Warren Stephen T. , Klyachko Vitaly A.
Published: January 2015

Significance

Although loss of fragile X mental retardation protein 1 (FMRP) causes a wide range of abnormalities in both pre- and postsynaptic compartments, the link between various FMRP functions and specific phenotypes in patients has been difficult to establish. Through the study of a novel fragile X mental retardation 1 (
FMR1
) missense mutation, c.413G > A (R138Q), recently identified in a patient with a partial fragile X syndrome (FXS) phenotype (intellectual disability and seizures), we found that pre- and postsynaptic functions of FMRP are independent. Our findings suggest that loss of a presynaptic, translation-independent function of FMRP is linked with a specific subset of FXS clinical features. Our study thus provides a major step in teasing out the domain-specific functions of FMRP in pre- and postsynaptic compartments, and their contribution to various elements of FXS pathophysiology.
VEGFR3 does not sustain retinal angiogenesis without VEGFR2
Authors: Zarkada Georgia , Heinolainen Krista , Makinen Taija , Kubota Yoshiaki , Alitalo Kari
Published: January 2015

Significance

VEGF/VEGFR and Notch signaling pathways are major molecular regulators of sprouting angiogenesis. Here we investigated the cross-talk between VEGFR and Notch signaling by using state-of-the-art inducible genetic mouse models. We found that VEGFR2 is absolutely required for the sprouting of endothelial cells that display low Notch activity. VEGFR3 cannot rescue the angiogenic sprouting associated with loss of Notch signaling. On the other hand, postnatal lymphangiogenesis required VEGFR3, but not VEGFR2. Because several new VEGF/VEGFR and Notch modulators are in clinical trials for the treatment of angiogenesis-related diseases, it is of the utmost importance to understand the signaling relationships of VEGFRs. This should also facilitate the design of more effective multitargeted treatments.
Tricin derivatives as anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic constituents from the aerial part of Zizania latifolia
Authors: Lee Seung-Su , Baek Yoon-Su , Eun Cheong-Su , Yu Mi-Hee , Baek Nam-In , Chung Dae-kyun , Bang Myun-Ho , Yang Seun-Ah
Published: January 2015

Methanol extract of Zizania latifolia was partitioned with EtOAc, n-BuOH, and H2O. From the EtOAc layers, a new flavonolignan along with a known flavone and three known flavonolignans, tricin (1), salcolin A (2), salcolin B (3), and salcolin C (4), were isolated through repeated silica gel and ODS column chromatography. The chemical structure of the new flavonolignan was determined to be tricin-4′-O-[erythro-β-guaiacyl-(7″-O-methyl)-glyceryl] ether and was named salcolin D (5) based on physicochemical and spectroscopic data, including FT-NMR and ESI-MS. All compounds were isolated for the first time from this plant. Compounds 2–5, tricin derivatives, all exhibited higher anti-inflammatory and anti-allergy activities than tricin. In particular, salcolin D (5) was shown to have the strongest inhibitory activity against LPS-induced NO production in RAW 264.7 cells as well as β-hexosaminidase release in IgE-sensitized RBL-2H3 cells. These results suggest that the presence of tricin derivatives conveys allergy and inflammation treatment ability to Z. latifolia.
Three‐dimensional analysis of a lofted instep kick by male and female footballers
Authors: Smith Tina , Gilleard Wendy
Published: January 2015

There is a paucity of data describing the lofted instep kick and little information on the kinematic differences between male and female footballers. This study provides a preliminary investigation into the differences in motion patterns between the sexes. A four‐camera motion analysis system videoed 13 amateur footballers (7 female and 6 male) attempting a standardised task that represented a lofted instep kick of approximately 35 m. Footballers performed 20 kicks, with the three trials categorised closest to the standardised distance retained for statistical analysis. Three‐dimensional motion patterns for kicks of 35 m illustrated that female footballers produced greater fluctuation in movement patterns for pelvic, hip joint and thoracolumbar spine motion in the frontal plane; thorax and hip joint transverse rotation; and ankle dorsiflexion/plantarflexion motion. Peak hip extension (P = 0.018), impact hip abduction (P = 0.032), impact ankle plantar flexion (P = 0.030) and resultant ball velocity (P = 0.004) differed significantly between sexes. Principle component analysis highlighted associations between kinematic variables related to ball velocity and sex including a reduced hip abduction and increased internal rotation approaching impact, and greater peak knee flexion, respectively. In summary, increased variation in direction of segment motion, increased backswing and formation of a tension arc by females compared to males, may be related to anthropometric, strength and muscle activation differences. Specifically, this exploratory study indicates future research would benefit from exploring trunk, pelvis and hip kinematics and kinetics, and whether training the trunk, pelvis and hip musculature assists female footballers.
Sleep Duration, Kidney Function, and Their Effects on Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in Elderly Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Nagai Michiaki , Hoshide Satoshi , Takahashi Mami , Shimpo Masahisa , Kario Kazuomi
Published: January 2015

BACKGROUND

Short sleep duration has been shown to be associated with cardio/cerebrovascular disease. White matter hyperintensities (WMH) have been associated with an increased risk of stroke. In addition to high ambulatory blood pressure (BP), chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a risk for WMH. In this study, we investigated the relationships among sleep duration, CKD, and WMH in elderly hypertensives.

METHODS

Ambulatory BP monitoring and brain magnetic resonance imaging were performed in 514 Japanese elderly hypertensives (mean age 72.3 years, males 37%). WMH cases were further divided into deep subcortical white matter lesion or periventricular hyperintensity (PVH). CKD (n = 193) was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate less than 60 ml/min/1.73 m2.

RESULTS

According to sleep duration (<7.5, ≥7.5 to <9.5, and ≥9.5 hour per night), significant associations of sleep duration were observed with WMH and PVH. In the regression analysis including age, gender, smoking, antiplatelet agents use, 24-hour systolic BP, nondipper, white coat hypertension and CKD, short sleep duration was significantly positively associated with WMH and PVH when subjects with mid-range sleep duration were used as a reference group. A significant interaction was found between short sleep duration and CKD for PVH. In the non-CKD group, short sleep duration had strong significant positive associations with WMH and PVH.

CONCLUSIONS

In the present study, short sleep duration was a positive significant determinant for WMH and PVH in elderly hypertensives. Sleep duration might serve as a strong determinant for white matter lesions especially in those without CKD.
Factors Determining δ‐Bilirubin Levels in Infants With Biliary Atresia
Authors: Ye Wen , Rosenthal Philip , Magee John C. , Whitington Peter F. ,   Childhood Liver Disease Research and Education Network
Published: January 2015

Objectives:

δ‐Bilirubin (Bδ) forms when bilirubin conjugates covalently bind to albumin by way of nonenzymatic transesterification in patients with cholestasis. Infants with cholestasis with biliary atresia form Bδ. The aim of the present study was to investigate the factors determining serum Bδ concentrations in infants with biliary atresia.

Methods:

Study patients were infants enrolled in a prospective study (PROBE: Clinicaltrials.gov NCT00061828) of biliary atresia. We acquired data of concurrently measured serum bilirubin analytes (total bilirubin [TB], conjugated bilirubin [Bc], and unconjugated bilirubin) and applied graphical methods and linear mixed effects model to study factors contributing to Bδ variability.

Results:

Bδ level increased with increasing levels of Bc and TB. In addition, the length of time cholestasis persisted partially determined the level of Bδ. An increase of 1 mg/dL in Bc is related to approximately 0.36 mg/dL increase in Bδ (P < 0.0001); every 100 days of cholestasis is associated with an approximately 1.0 mg/dL increase in Bδ (P < 0.0001) given the same level of Bc. Serum albumin levels are not significantly related to Bδ (P = 0.89).

Conclusions:

Bδ levels in infants with biliary atresia increase with increasing levels of Bc and longer duration of cholestasis. Understanding the relation among Bδ, Bc, TB, and direct‐reacting bilirubin levels can help in interpretation of the clinical extent of cholestasis in infants and children with biliary atresia, assisting in the diagnosis and management of these infants.
Phylogeny, extinction and conservation: embracing uncertainties in a time of urgency
Authors: Forest Félix , Crandall Keith A. , Chase Mark W. , Faith Daniel P.
Published: January 2015

Evolutionary studies have played a fundamental role in our understanding of life, but until recently, they had only a relatively modest involvement in addressing conservation issues. The main goal of the present discussion meeting issue is to offer a platform to present the available methods allowing the integration of phylogenetic and extinction risk data in conservation planning. Here, we identify the main knowledge gaps in biodiversity science, which include incomplete sampling, reconstruction biases in phylogenetic analyses, partly known species distribution ranges, and the difficulty in producing conservation assessments for all known species, not to mention that much of the effective biological diversity remains to be discovered. Given the impact that human activities have on biodiversity and the urgency with which we need to address these issues, imperfect assumptions need to be sanctioned and surrogates used in the race to salvage as much as possible of our natural and evolutionary heritage. We discuss some aspects of the uncertainties found in biodiversity science, such as the ideal surrogates for biodiversity, the gaps in our knowledge and the numerous available phylogenetic diversity-based methods. We also introduce a series of cases studies that demonstrate how evolutionary biology can effectively contribute to biodiversity conservation science.
A practical guide to the application of the IUCN Red List of Ecosystems criteria
Authors: Rodríguez Jon Paul , Keith David A. , Rodríguez-Clark Kathryn M. , Murray Nicholas J. , Nicholson Emily , Regan Tracey J. , Miller Rebecca M. , Barrow Edmund G. , Bland Lucie M. , Boe Kaia , Brooks Thomas M. , Oliveira-Miranda María A. , Spalding Mark , Wit Piet
Published: January 2015

The newly developed IUCN Red List of Ecosystems is part of a growing toolbox for assessing risks to biodiversity, which addresses ecosystems and their functioning. The Red List of Ecosystems standard allows systematic assessment of all freshwater, marine, terrestrial and subterranean ecosystem types in terms of their global risk of collapse. In addition, the Red List of Ecosystems categories and criteria provide a technical base for assessments of ecosystem status at the regional, national, or subnational level. While the Red List of Ecosystems criteria were designed to be widely applicable by scientists and practitioners, guidelines are needed to ensure they are implemented in a standardized manner to reduce epistemic uncertainties and allow robust comparisons among ecosystems and over time. We review the intended application of the Red List of Ecosystems assessment process, summarize ‘best-practice’ methods for ecosystem assessments and outline approaches to ensure operational rigour of assessments. The Red List of Ecosystems will inform priority setting for ecosystem types worldwide, and strengthen capacity to report on progress towards the Aichi Targets of the Convention on Biological Diversity. When integrated with other IUCN knowledge products, such as the World Database of Protected Areas/Protected Planet, Key Biodiversity Areas and the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species, the Red List of Ecosystems will contribute to providing the most complete global measure of the status of biodiversity yet achieved.
A synthetic phylogeny of freshwater crayfish: insights for conservation
Authors: Owen Christopher L. , Bracken-Grissom Heather , Stern David , Crandall Keith A.
Published: January 2015

Phylogenetic systematics is heading for a renaissance where we shift from considering our phylogenetic estimates as a static image in a published paper and taxonomies as a hardcopy checklist to treating both the phylogenetic estimate and dynamic taxonomies as metadata for further analyses. The Open Tree of Life project (opentreeoflife.org) is developing synthesis tools for harnessing the power of phylogenetic inference and robust taxonomy to develop a synthetic tree of life. We capitalize on this approach to estimate a synthesis tree for the freshwater crayfish. The crayfish make an exceptional group to demonstrate the utility of the synthesis approach, as there recently have been a number of phylogenetic studies on the crayfishes along with a robust underlying taxonomic framework. Importantly, the crayfish have also been extensively assessed by an IUCN Red List team and therefore have accurate and up-to-date area and conservation status data available for analysis within a phylogenetic context. Here, we develop a synthesis phylogeny for the world's freshwater crayfish and examine the phylogenetic distribution of threat. We also estimate a molecular phylogeny based on all available GenBank crayfish sequences and use this tree to estimate divergence times and test for divergence rate variation. Finally, we conduct EDGE and HEDGE analyses and identify a number of species of freshwater crayfish of highest priority in conservation efforts.
Ensuring the success of IPBES: between interface, market place and parliament
Authors: Vohland Katrin , Nadim Tahani
Published: January 2015

After years of protracted negotiations, the Intergovernmental science–policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) was finally established in 2012. One year on and we have already witnessed two plenary sessions which have, so far, defined procedures for nominating members for observatory and decision-making panels as well as experts and knowledge holders for the compilation of reports. The sessions also determined the work programme for the next 4 years (2014–2018). According to its internally formulated criteria, the success of IPBES will be determined by how credible, relevant and legitimate its institution and operations are. More specifically, these criteria suggest that success is contingent on the transparency of the processes within IPBES, the autonomy and quality of scientific knowledge, and the early integration of different stakeholders and diverse knowledge and value systems. Currently, we see IPBES encompassing open and integrative approaches as well as providing a convenient trading floor for particulate and opaque agendas formulated elsewhere. In any case, without the backing of large and effective publics the policy–support function of IPBES will be limited. Local capacity building and supporting communities to actively participate in research projects dealing with biodiversity are essential for furthering a practical and emancipatory understanding of the relationship between political and economic decisions, the state and functioning of biodiversity and ecosystems, and current and future human well-being.
The Sampled Red List Index for Plants, phase II: ground-truthing specimen-based conservation assessments
Authors: Brummitt Neil , Bachman Steven P. , Aletrari Elina , Chadburn Helen , Griffiths-Lee Janine , Lutz Maiko , Moat Justin , Rivers Malin C. , Syfert Mindy M. , Nic Lughadha Eimear M.
Published: January 2015

The IUCN Sampled Red List Index (SRLI) is a policy response by biodiversity scientists to the need to estimate trends in extinction risk of the world's diminishing biological diversity. Assessments of plant species for the SRLI project rely predominantly on herbarium specimen data from natural history collections, in the overwhelming absence of accurate population data or detailed distribution maps for the vast majority of plant species. This creates difficulties in re-assessing these species so as to measure genuine changes in conservation status, which must be observed under the same Red List criteria in order to be distinguished from an increase in the knowledge available for that species, and thus re-calculate the SRLI. However, the same specimen data identify precise localities where threatened species have previously been collected and can be used to model species ranges and to target fieldwork in order to test specimen-based range estimates and collect population data for SRLI plant species. Here, we outline a strategy for prioritizing fieldwork efforts in order to apply a wider range of IUCN Red List criteria to assessments of plant species, or any taxa with detailed locality or natural history specimen data, to produce a more robust estimation of the SRLI.
Towards a general framework for predicting threat status of data-deficient species from phylogenetic, spatial and environmental information
Authors: Jetz Walter , Freckleton Robert P.
Published: January 2015

In taxon-wide assessments of threat status many species remain not included owing to lack of data. Here, we present a novel spatial-phylogenetic statistical framework that uses a small set of readily available or derivable characteristics, including phylogenetically imputed body mass and remotely sensed human encroachment, to provide initial baseline predictions of threat status for data-deficient species. Applied to assessed mammal species worldwide, the approach effectively identifies threatened species and predicts the geographical variation in threat. For the 483 data-deficient species, the models predict highly elevated threat, with 69% ‘at-risk’ species in this set, compared with 22% among assessed species. This results in 331 additional potentially threatened mammals, with elevated conservation importance in rodents, bats and shrews, and countries like Colombia, Sulawesi and the Philippines. These findings demonstrate the future potential for combining phylogenies and remotely sensed data with species distributions to identify species and regions of conservation concern.
Geographic range size is predicted by plant mating system
Authors: Grossenbacher Dena , Runquist Ryan Briscoe , Goldberg Emma E. , Brandvain Yaniv
Published: January 2015

Species’ geographic ranges vary enormously, and even closest relatives may differ in range size by several orders of magnitude. With data from hundreds of species spanning 20 genera in 15 families, we show that plant species that autonomously reproduce via self-pollination consistently have larger geographic ranges than their close relatives that generally require two parents for reproduction. Further analyses strongly implicate autonomous self-fertilization in causing this relationship, as it is not driven by traits such as polyploidy or annual life history whose evolution is sometimes correlated with autonomous self-fertilization. Furthermore, we find that selfers occur at higher maximum latitudes and that disparity in range size between selfers and outcrossers increases with time since their separation. Together, these results show that autonomous reproduction — a critical biological trait that eliminates mate limitation and thus potentially increases the probability of establishment — increases range size.
Insights into the Origin and Evolution of the Plant Hormone Signaling Machinery
Authors: Wang Chunyang , Liu Yang , Li Si-Shen , Han Guan-Zhu
Published: January 2015

Plant hormones modulate plant growth, development, and defense. However, many aspects of the origin and evolution of plant hormone signaling pathways remain obscure. Here, we use a comparative genomic and phylogenetic approach to investigate the origin and evolution of nine major plant hormone (abscisic acid, auxin, brassinosteroid, cytokinin, ethylene, gibberellin, jasmonate, salicylic acid, and strigolactone) signaling pathways. Our multispecies genome-wide analysis reveals that: (1) auxin, cytokinin, and strigolactone signaling pathways originated in charophyte lineages; (2) abscisic acid, jasmonate, and salicylic acid signaling pathways arose in the last common ancestor of land plants; (3) gibberellin signaling evolved after the divergence of bryophytes from land plants; (4) the canonical brassinosteroid signaling originated before the emergence of angiosperms but likely after the split of gymnosperms and angiosperms; and (5) the origin of the canonical ethylene signaling pathway postdates shortly the emergence of angiosperms. Our findings might have important implications in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying the emergence of land plants.
An insight on soft TQM practices and their impact on cement manufacturing firm’s performance
Authors: Dubey Rameshwar
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to study soft total quality management (TQM) practices and their impact on firm performance (FP).

Design/methodology/approach

– In the present paper, the author has used systematic literature review proposed by Tranfield et al. (2003). After identifying the research gaps, the author has formulated research hypotheses and developed a structured questionnaire to collect data from cement manufacturing firms to test the research hypotheses. In this study the author has used exploratory factor analysis (EFA) to explore latent constructs of soft TQM. The EFA output was further used as an input to multiple linear regression analysis to study their relationship with FP.

Findings

– The regression analysis indicates that relationship with internal and external partners, quality culture, human resource focus, visionary leadership, are positive and statistically significant determinants of FP.

Originality/value

– In this study the author has selected Indian cement industry which is world’s second largest cement producer and an important sector in terms of its contribution to Indian GDP, and provides direct and indirect employment opportunities to millions of people. However, most of the studies in India were done related to automotive sector and soft TQM was never considered important. The findings of the study contribute to resource-based theory.
Internationalization flows of high-tech start-ups: a gravity model
Authors: Cannone Giusy , Ughetto Elisa
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The paper aims to examine the locational determinants of the internationalization flows of high-tech start-ups. It also provides a picture of the current patterns of internationalization of high-tech start-ups, through a map of the most attractive countries in terms of inbound and outbound internationalization flows.

Design/methodology/approach

– The empirical data have been obtained from a cross-country survey on internationalized high-tech start-ups operating in the ICT and electronics sectors. To explore the determinants of the intensity of internationalization flows of high-tech start-ups between a pair of countries, this study adopts a modified gravity model.

Findings

– Results highlight that USA, UK and China are the most competitive countries in terms of inbound flows. This paper obtains evidence that internationalization flows of high-tech start-ups are motivated by the sourcing of host country locational advantages, identified by the strength of the legal and regulatory framework, the availability of VC financing, the innovation potential and the strength of IPR protection.

Originality/value

– This paper adds to the international business literature in two ways. First, it provides a picture of the current patterns of internationalization for high-tech start-ups through a map of the most attractive countries in terms of inbound and outbound internationalization flows. Second, this research is an empirical attempt to understand the relationship between internationalization patterns of high-tech start-ups and attractiveness of host countries. To date, the authors are unaware of any other study that has examined the extent to which the internationalization flows of high-tech start-ups are affected by host country conditions in a cross-country context.
Counterfeit purchase typologies during an economic crisis
Authors: Priporas Constantinos-Vasilios , Kamenidou Irene , Kapoulas Alexandros , Papadopoulou Filomila Maria
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– This paper aims to explore, and attempts to explain, consumer perspectives on the purchasing of counterfeit brands. The economic crisis has become a global phenomenon, although in Europe it mostly affected the Mediterranean countries of Southern Europe. In times of economic stress, counterfeit products increase their market share.

Design/methodology/approach

– The study utilized an email-based open-ended questionnaire as its data collection method. The research used a sample of 83 participants belonging to Generation Y (younger and older) and upper-medium- and high-income class brackets.

Findings

– Purchasing behaviour of counterfeit products during the economic crisis enabled this study to identify four types of consumers. Furthermore, the results indicated that some consumers have significant interest in counterfeits, whereas some consumers show apathy or indifference towards counterfeiting. Furthermore, some consumers believe that the government’s economic austerity policies cause high-level consumption of counterfeits, whereas others consider the authorities to be responsible for counterfeiting, as they do not adequately tackle it.

Research limitations/implications

– This research is exploratory in nature and restricted to Greek Generation Y consumers. Suggestions are presented regarding future studies and generalization of the findings.

Practical implications

– Implementation of law, joint communication campaigns and social media usage are the major implications for the stakeholders in the marketplace.

Originality/value

– This study extends the body of knowledge of purchasing behaviour on non-deceptive counterfeit products by offering empirical findings from Greece, a country facing a severe economic crisis. This is the first study that explores counterfeit buying behaviour during an economic crisis period.
Determining effective teaching behaviors through the hiring process
Authors: Schumacher Gary , Grigsby Bettye , Vesey Winona
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– One bad hiring decision can lead to low student achievement. Research supports that teachers are the most influential factor in student success. As a result, principals’ current practice of hiring teachers based on intuition and likeability must change. Given the current high stakes era, principals need reassurance that the teachers they hire can indeed meet the needs of the students and the goals of the school. The purpose of this paper is to determine which interview protocol questions would predict high levels of effective teaching behaviors exhibited by teachers in the classroom.

Design/methodology/approach

– A convenience sample of 600 working teachers responded to a 93-item Likert-scale online questionnaire related to the four domains of effective teaching behaviors: classroom management, organizing instruction, implementing instruction, and monitoring progress and potential. The researchers first analyzed the teacher responses to assess their reliability and validity. A regression analysis was then run to indicate which effective teacher domains (the predictor variables); best predicted average student achievement scores (the outcome variable). Regression analysis was used to predict high-quality teachers (i.e. teachers with high average gain scores) given responses to interview questions (predictor variables).

Findings

– Successful teachers in this study utilized multiple strategies when handling the area of classroom management and organization. In the area of organizing instruction, key elements such as the objective, individual or group activities, and assessments were included in the daily lesson plan. The structure of the lesson delivery and the different learning styles of students were considered when planning a lesson. In this research, teachers utilized various instructional strategies when implementing instruction to challenge all learners, accommodate different learning styles, and to ensure student success. Successful teachers in this study monitored student progress and potential using a variety of methods.

Research limitations/implications

– The research was conducted in two districts. Future studies could expand on the research using multiple districts in several locations. Data were self-reported by current teachers and cannot be independently verified. Researchers relied on the information provided by teachers and trusted their responses to be accurate. Future studies could include a qualitative piece to determine why monitoring student progress and potential produced a negative result on student performance, classroom management was not significantly related to performance in language arts, and organization for instruction was not significantly related to performance in mathematics.

Originality/value

– This longitudinal study will provide hiring authorities with research-based protocols that have proven to predict high levels of teaching quality, which research has shown to be single most important determinant of student achievement.
Reforming schools: the collective doubting perspective
Authors: Schechter Chen , Ganon-Shilon Sherry
Published: January 2015

Purpose

– The ongoing challenge to sustain educational reforms requires a learning process through which doubt is induced as a means of fostering productive school change. The purpose of this paper is to explore the concept of doubt as well as the doubting process and its importance to the school community, particularly with regard to educational reforms.

Design/methodology/approach

– After discussing the notions of doubt and the doubting process in the context of school reform, collective doubting in school administration is presented, accompanied by empirical illustrations.

Findings

– Whereas existing change management literature acknowledges resistance to change as a negative phenomenon, doubt and doubting – questioning the taken-for-granted need for reform and the way the reform should be carried out – is conceptualized as a positive and constructive phenomenon, a source for collective learning. The paper presents limitations, implications, and avenues for future research regarding the doubting process in the context of school reform.

Originality/value

– The collective doubting perspective has been sorely under investigated in the educational context. The constructive reform framework of collective doubting may help schools and policy makers develop and sustain educational reforms to foster continuous growth within students and practitioners alike.