bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potential of Fava Bean as Future Protein Supply to Partially Replace Meat Intake in the Human Diet
Authors: Multari Salvatore , Stewart Derek , Russell Wendy R.
Published: June 2015

Legumes have the potential to support global protein production by partially replacing meat and dairy products in the human diet. This will not only help meeting the increasing worldwide demand for proteins, but could contribute towards mitigating the threat imposed to the environment by current agricultural practices in higher‐economy countries (dependence on fossil fuel energy and harmful emissions). Among the legumes, fava bean (Vicia faba L.) is a valuable crop. It is a rich source of proteins, fiber, and other non‐nutrient compounds considered beneficial for health. Although a popular source of proteins in many parts of the world, especially in the Middle East, Mediterranean area, and South America, it has yet to be fully exploited in markets where meat is the predominant source of proteins in the diet. Here, fava bean cultivation could not only make a valuable contribution towards protein self‐sufficiency, but could potentially play a role in alleviating the rise in chronic diseases. In addition, fava bean enables symbiotic fixation of atmospheric nitrogen and can provide a more environmentally friendly substitution for industrial N‐fertilizers with associated improvements in resource efficiency and production costs. From both a food security and environmental sustainability perspective, encouraging both production and consumption of fava bean is a timely and important target. This review focuses on the potential of fava bean as a functional food ingredient to partially replace meat in the human diet.
Comparing Green and Grey Infrastructure Using Life Cycle Cost and Environmental Impact: A Rain Garden Case Study in Cincinnati, OH
Authors: Vineyard Donald , Ingwersen Wesley W. , Hawkins Troy R. , Xue Xiaobo , Demeke Bayou , Shuster William
Published: June 2015

Green infrastructure (GI) is quickly gaining ground as a less costly, greener alternative to traditional methods of stormwater management. One popular form of GI is the use of rain gardens to capture and treat stormwater. We used life cycle assessment (LCA) to compare environmental impacts of residential rain gardens constructed in the Shepherd's Creek watershed of Cincinnati, Ohio to those from a typical detain and treat system. LCA is an internationally standardized framework for analyzing the potential environmental performance of a product or service by including all stages in its life cycle, including material extraction, manufacturing, use, and disposal. Complementary to the life cycle environmental impact assessment, the life cycle costing approach was adopted to compare the equivalent annual costs of each of these systems. These analyses were supplemented by modeling alternative scenarios to capture the variability in implementing a GI strategy. Our LCA models suggest rain garden costs and impacts are determined by labor requirement; the traditional alternative's impacts are determined largely by the efficiency of wastewater treatment, while costs are determined by the expense of tunnel construction. Gardens were found to be the favorable option, both financially (~42% cost reduction) and environmentally (62‐98% impact reduction). Wastewater utilities may find significant life cycle cost and environmental impact reductions in implementing a rain garden plan.
Accelerated food source location in aging Drosophila
Authors: Egenriether Sada M. , Chow Eileen S. , Krauth Nathalie , Giebultowicz Jadwiga M.
Published: June 2015

Adequate energy stores are essential for survival, and sophisticated neuroendocrine mechanisms evolved to stimulate foraging in response to nutrient deprivation. Food search behavior is usually investigated in young animals, and it is not known how aging alters this behavior. To address this question in Drosophila melanogaster, we compared the ability to locate food by olfaction in young and old flies using a food‐filled trap. As aging is associated with a decline in motor functions, learning, and memory, we expected that aged flies would take longer to enter the food trap than their young counterparts. Surprisingly, old flies located food with significantly shorter latency than young ones. Robust food search behavior was associated with significantly lower fat reserves and lower starvation resistance in old flies. Food‐finding latency (FFL) was shortened in young wild‐type flies that were starved until their fat was depleted but also in heterozygous chico mutants with reduced insulin receptor activity and higher fat deposits. Conversely, food trap entry was delayed in old flies with increased insulin signaling. Our results suggest that the difference in FFL between young and old flies is linked to age‐dependent differences in metabolic status and may be mediated by reduced insulin signaling.
Identification of Two Homozygous Sequence Variants in the COL7A1 Gene Underlying Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa by Whole‐Exome Analysis in a Consanguineous Family
Authors: Serafi Rehab , Jelani Musharraf , Almramhi Mona M. , Mohamoud Hussein S.A. , Ahmed Saleem , Alkhiary Yaser M. , Zhang Jianguo , Yang Huanming , Al‐Aama Jumana Y.
Published: June 2015

Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (DEB) is an inherited skin disorder with variable severity and heterogeneous genetic involvement. Diagnostic approaches for this condition include clinical evaluations and electron microscopy of patients’ skin biopsies, followed by Sanger sequencing (SS) of a large gene (118 exons) that encodes the alpha chain of type VII collagen (COL7A1) located on Chromosome 3p21.1. However, the use of SS may hinder diagnostic efficiency and lead to delays because it is costly and time‐consuming. We evaluated a 5‐generation consanguineous family with 3 affected individuals presenting the severe generalised DEB phenotype. Human whole‐exome sequencing (WES) revealed 2 homozygous sequence variants: the previously reported variant p.Arg578* in exon 13 and a novel variant p.Arg2063Gln in exon 74 of the COL7A1 gene. Validation by SS, performed on all family members, confirmed the cosegregation of the 2 variants with the disease phenotype. To the best of our knowledge, 2 homozygous COL7A1 variants have never been simultaneously reported in DEB patients; however, the upstream protein truncation variant is more likely to be disease‐causing than the novel missense variant. WES can be used as an efficient molecular diagnostic tool for evaluating autosomal recessive forms of DEB.
Governmentalities of Urban Crises in Inner‐city Athens, Greece
Authors: Koutrolikou Penny (Panagiota)
Published: June 2015

Through the notion of “conjuncture” this paper explores the interplay of urban crises that have been unfolding in the city of Athens during the past 7 years (2008–2014). By focusing on specific “critical moments” that have significantly influenced the narratives, discourses and subsequent policies concerning “Athens in crisis”, it examines a number of intertwined approaches and tactics that shaped the governmentality of such crisis. These approaches and tactics, that work in tandem, include emergency‐driven policies and politics; politics of fear that occasionally transform into geographies of fear; processes of defining the “public” and “public enemies”; and redefinitions of (il)legalities. Yet, they have repercussions on people, places and politics. In this context, certain issues are deemed critical or urgent while others do not or are even obscured.
The evolutionary and morphological history of the parasphenoid bone in vertebrates
Authors: Atkins Jade B. , Franz‐Odendaal Tamara A.
Published: June 2015

The parasphenoid is located in the cranium of many vertebrates. When present, it is always an unpaired, dermal bone. While most basal vertebrates have a parasphenoid, most placental mammals lack this element and have an unpaired, dermal vomer in a similar position (i.e. associated with the same bones) and with a similar function. As such, the parasphenoid and the vomer were considered homologous by some early twentieth century researchers. However, others questioned this homology based on comparisons between mammals and reptiles. Here we investigate the parasphenoid bone across the major vertebrate lineages (amphibians, reptiles, mammals and teleosts) including both developmental and evolutionary aspects, which until now have not been considered together. We find that within all the major vertebrate lineages there are organisms that possess a parasphenoid and a vomer, while the parasphenoid is absent within caecilians and most placental mammals. Based on our assessment and Patterson's conjunction tests, we conclude that the non‐mammalian parasphenoid and the vomer in mammals cannot be considered homologous. Additionally, the parasphenoid is likely homologous between sarcopterygian and actinopterygian lineages. This research attempts to resolve the issue of the parasphenoid homology and highlights where gaps in our knowledge are still present.
Not looking yourself: The cost of self‐selecting photographs for identity verification
Authors: White David , Burton Amy L. , Kemp Richard I.
Published: June 2015

Photo‐identification is based on the premise that photographs are representative of facial appearance. However, previous studies show that ratings of likeness vary across different photographs of the same face, suggesting that some images capture identity better than others. Two experiments were designed to examine the relationship between likeness judgments and face matching accuracy. In Experiment 1, we compared unfamiliar face matching accuracy for self‐selected and other‐selected high‐likeness images. Surprisingly, images selected by previously unfamiliar viewers – after very limited exposure to a target face – were more accurately matched than self‐selected images chosen by the target identity themselves. Results also revealed extremely low inter‐rater agreement in ratings of likeness across participants, suggesting that perceptions of image resemblance are inherently unstable. In Experiment 2, we test whether the cost of self‐selection can be explained by this general disagreement in likeness judgments between individual raters. We find that averaging across rankings by multiple raters produces image selections that provide superior identification accuracy. However, benefit of other‐selection persisted for single raters, suggesting that inaccurate representations of self interfere with our ability to judge which images faithfully represent our current appearance.
Activation of EP4 receptors prevents endotoxin‐induced neutrophil infiltration into the airways and enhances microvascular barrier function
Authors: Konya V , Maric J , Jandl K , Luschnig P , Aringer I , Lanz I , Platzer W , Theiler A , Bärnthaler T , Frei R , Marsche G , Marsh L M , Olschewski A , Lippe I T , Heinemann A , Schuligoi R
Published: June 2015

Background and Purpose

Pulmonary vascular dysfunction is a key event in acute lung injury. We recently demonstrated that PGE2, via activation of E‐prostanoid (EP)4 receptors, strongly enhances microvascular barrier function in vitro. The aim of this study was to investigate the beneficial effects of concomitant EP4 receptor activation in murine models of acute pulmonary inflammation.

Experimental Approach

Pulmonary inflammation in male BALB/c mice was induced by LPS (20 μg per mouse intranasally) or oleic acid (0.15 μL·g‐1, i.v.). In‐vitro, endothelial barrier function was determined by measuring electrical impedance.

Key Results

PGE2 activation of EP4 receptors reduced neutrophil infiltration, pulmonary vascular leakage and TNF‐α concentration in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid from LPS‐induced pulmonary inflammation. Similarly, pulmonary vascular hyperpermeability induced by oleic acid was counteracted by EP4 receptor activation. In lung function assays, the EP4 agonist ONO AE1‐329 restored the increased resistance and reduced compliance upon methacholine challenge in mice treated with LPS or oleic acid. In agreement with these findings, EP4 receptor activation increased the in vitro vascular barrier function of human and mouse pulmonary microvascular endothelial cells and diminished the barrier disruption induced by LPS. The EP2 agonist ONO AE1‐259 likewise reversed LPS‐induced lung dysfunction without enhancing vascular barrier function.

Conclusion and Implications

Our results show that activation of the EP4 receptor strengthens the microvascular barrier function and thereby ameliorates the pathology of acute lung inflammation, including neutrophil infiltration, vascular oedema formation and airway dysfunction. This suggests a potential benefit for EP4 agonists in acute pulmonary inflammation.
Beyond Advocacy: Making Space for Conservation Scientists in Public Debate
Authors: Garrard Georgia E. , Fidler Fiona , Wintle Bonnie C. , Chee Yung En , Bekessy Sarah A.
Published: June 2015

The topic of advocacy by scientists has been debated for decades, yet there is little agreement about whether scientists can or should be advocates. The fear of crossing a line into advocacy continues to hold many scientists back from contributing to public discourse, impoverishing public debate about important issues. We believe that progress in this debate is limited by a misconception about the relationship between scientific integrity and objectivity. We begin by unpacking this relationship and debunking three common misconceptions about advocacy by scientists: namely, that advocacy is harmful to scientific credibility, beyond the scope of science, and incompatible with science, which is value‐free. We propose new ways of thinking about responsible advocacy by conservation scientists, drawing on practices from the health sciences, where researchers and professional bodies are empowered to act as health advocates. In so doing, we hope to open further space for conservation scientists to actively and legitimately engage in public debate about conservation issues.
Giant Left Atrium with Large Thrombus—Comprehensive Evaluation and Management
Authors: Malkiwodeyar Prashanth Kumar , Moorthy Nagaraj , Bhat Prabhavati , Cholenahalli Manjunath Nanjappa
Published: June 2015

Mini‐Abstract

Forty‐seven‐year‐old woman presented with NYHA class III symptoms of dyspnea on exertion with acute right lower limb ischemia, prompt surgical embolectomy was performed. Cardiac evaluation with echocardiography and 3D echocardiography revealed rheumatic heart disease—severe mitral stenosis with a giant left atrium with large mass occupying almost whole of left atrium. Detailed evaluation of the mass was performed to rule out malignancy with transesophageal echocardiography, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging which were indicative of thrombus. Left atrial thrombectomy with mitral valve replacement was carried out, and histopathology confirmed the diagnosis of thrombus.
Spectral Doppler of the Hepatic Veins in Noncardiac Diseases: What the Echocardiographer Should Know
Authors: Fadel Bahaa M. , Alassas Khadija , Husain Aysha , Dahdouh Ziad , Di Salvo Giovanni
Published: June 2015

In most instances, the flow profile in the hepatic veins (HVs) reflects the fluctuation of pressure within the right atrium. Thus, interrogation of blood flow in the HVs is highly useful for the evaluation of right heart hemodynamics and has become an integral part of any routine echocardiographic examination. However, flow in the HVs is also affected by the state of the liver parenchyma and by the fluctuation of pressure within the thoracic cavity. Therefore, liver and pulmonary pathologies influence the flow pattern in the HVs and may lead to its dissociation from right heart hemodynamics. Echocardiographers should familiarize themselves with the findings on HV Doppler in noncardiac diseases to avoid misinterpretation and incorrect diagnosis.
Equilibrium and non‐equilibrium dynamics simultaneously operate in the Galápagos islands
Authors: Valente Luis M. , Phillimore Albert B. , Etienne Rampal S.
Published: June 2015

Island biotas emerge from the interplay between colonisation, speciation and extinction and are often the scene of spectacular adaptive radiations. A common assumption is that insular diversity is at a dynamic equilibrium, but for remote islands, such as Hawaii or Galápagos, this idea remains untested. Here, we reconstruct the temporal accumulation of terrestrial bird species of the Galápagos using a novel phylogenetic method that estimates rates of biota assembly for an entire community. We show that species richness on the archipelago is in an ascending phase and does not tend towards equilibrium. The majority of the avifauna diversifies at a slow rate, without detectable ecological limits. However, Darwin's finches form an exception: they rapidly reach a carrying capacity and subsequently follow a coalescent‐like diversification process. Together, these results suggest that avian diversity of remote islands is rising, and challenge the mutual exclusivity of the non‐equilibrium and equilibrium ecological paradigms.
Role of T‐regulatory cells in the response to hepatitis B vaccine in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Mathew Roy O. , Mason Darius L. , Song Renjie , Tryniszewski Tiffany , Kennedy Jeffrey S.
Published: June 2015

Human disease elicits a complex array of biological processes that results in long‐term protective immunological memory to infectious agents. Chronic kidney disease is known to impair induction of sustained immunological memory to hepatitis B vaccine (HBVax) antigens. We asked the question: Does end‐stage renal disease promote changes in subtypes of regulatory T (Treg) cells that correlate with diminished amnestic response to HBVax antigen compared to healthy controls? The study design and setting was a prospective observational cohort at a veterans affairs medical center. End‐stage renal disease patients on hemodialysis (HD) were compared with individuals with self‐reported normal kidney function. All subjects received HBVax. Peripheral blood was sampled for assessment for Treg cells pre and post vaccination. CD4+ FOXP3 Treg numbers were similar between HD and healthy subjects during a 14‐day time period post vaccination. HD subjcts had lower anti‐HBSag antibody than CON (control) subjects (330 ± 108.7 vs. 663.1 ± 129.7 IU/mL; P = 0.063). Hemodialysis subjects with resting Tregs higher than the median value in our cohort demonstrated a significantly lower change in HBsAB at 30 days post booster vaccination (P = 0.030). No such relationship was found for the activated Treg subset among HD subjects, or either subset among CON subsets. In our limited comparison study of 11 HD and 8 CON subjects, Treg subsets did not differ between the two groups; but differences in the suppressive Treg numbers in the HD group could explain the altered antibody response to HBVax and is worthy of further study.
Cytocompatibility of Biodentine using a three‐dimensional cell culture model
Authors: Silva E. J. N. L. , Senna P. M. , De‐Deus G. , Zaia A. A.
Published: June 2015

Aim

To evaluate the cytotoxic effects of Biodentine, using a three‐dimensional (3D) cell culture associated with an in situ root‐end filling experimental model. White mineral trioxide aggregate (MTA) and zinc oxide cement were used as reference for comparison. IL‐1α and TNF‐α cytokine production were also evaluated.

Methodology

The root canals of 24 human maxillary incisor teeth were prepared using a single‐file reciprocating technique. After root filling, a 3‐mm root‐end resection was performed and 3 mm of gutta‐percha was removed from the canal. The teeth were randomly distributed to receive one of the following root‐end filling materials: Biodentine, white MTA or zinc oxide cement (positive control group). In the negative control group, the root canal was not retro‐filled. The cytocompatibility of the materials was evaluated using the methyl‐thiazol‐diphenyl‐tetrazolium (MTT) assay in an in situ root‐end filling experimental model. Balb/c 3T3 fibroblasts, cultured in rat tail collagen type I 3D scaffold, were exposed to the root apex for 24 h, and cell viability was measured by means of reduction MTT salt. IL‐1α and TNF‐α production were analysed using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. One‐way analysis of variance was performed and, when the F‐ratios were significant, data were compared by Duncan's multiple‐range test. The alpha‐type error was set at 0.05.

Results

Biodentine and MTA groups had similar cell activity to the negative control group (P > 0.05), indicating low cytotoxicity for both materials. The stronger cytotoxicity effect was identified on the zinc oxide cement (P < 0.05). Zinc oxide cement caused a significant up‐regulation in IL‐1α and TNF‐α (P < 0.05). No significant differences amongst MTA, Biodentine and the negative control group were observed for TNF‐α (P > 0.05); however, both MTA and Biodentine were associated with overproduction of IL‐1α when compared to the control group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Biodentine and MTA had similar cytocompatibility in a 3D cell culture model associated with an in situ root‐end filling model. The methodology could be used as an alternative to assess the cytocompatibility of endodontic cements because it is more closely related to the in vivo situation.
Evaluation of blood group antibodies in ABO‐incompatible living‐donor kidney transplantation
Authors: Sugiyama Ken , Hyodo Yoji , Aikawa Atsushi
Published: June 2015

Objective

To assess changes in anti‐blood type antibody titers and postoperative outcomes (graft survival and rejection rates) at our center with the use of the immunosuppressant, rituximab, in ABO‐incompatible kidney transplants from living donors. Confirming anti‐donor blood group antibodies is important for avoiding humoral rejection in ABO‐incompatible kidney transplants. Splenectomy has been carried out in our hospital according to Alexandre's policy in order to suppress the production of anti‐donor blood group antibodies. However, splenectomy has recently been avoided due to the administration of the immunosuppressant rituximab, which gives satisfactory outcomes. Thus, pre‐ and postoperative anti‐donor blood group antibodies were measured, and the outcomes achieved with rituximab were examined.

Methods

A total of 134 cases of ABO‐incompatible kidney transplants were carried out at Toho University Omori Medical Center between March 1989 and February 2013. These cases were classified as follows: azathioprine group (n = 62 patients); mycophenolate mofetil group (n = 33 patients); rituximab group (n = 39 patients). The anti‐donor blood group antibodies levels (immunoglobulin G and immunoglobulin M) were measured in all groups before antibody removal, immediately before surgery, and 1, 2, 4 weeks and 3 months after surgery, and then compared.

Results

Rates of antibody‐mediated rejection, including hyperacute rejection, in the azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and rituximab groups were 32.2%, 18.1% and 7.6%, respectively. Graft survival rates were higher in the mycophenolate mofetil and rituximab groups than in the azathioprine group, but were lower in patients with higher preoperative antibody titers (≥128‐fold higher immunoglobulin G) than in those with lower titers (<128‐fold higher immunoglobulin G). In addition, postoperative anti‐blood type antibody titers were significantly suppressed in the rituximab group.

Conclusions

Administration of rituximab results in better antibody control than previous protocols including splenectomy, even in the postoperative period during which humoral rejection often occurs. This protocol eliminates the physical invasiveness of pre‐transplant splenectomy, and is expected to provide better outcomes in chronic renal failure patients who undergo kidney transplants.
The right‐to‐manage default rule
Authors: Harcourt Mark , Lam Helen , Croucher Richard
Published: June 2015

We critically examine the right‐to‐manage as a legal default rule. Identifying its deficiencies, we then assess the merits of process and content defaults and identify potentially non‐waivable terms and conditions. Finally, we suggest how different options may be combined within systems.
Thermal Shock Resistance of Laminated ZrB2–SiC Ceramic Evaluated by Indentation Technique
Authors: Zhou Peng , Wang Zhi , Fan Youhua , Hu Ping , Zhang Xinghong , Han Wenbo
Published: June 2015

In this work, the thermal shock behavior of laminated ZrB2–SiC ceramic has been evaluated using indentation‐quench method based on propagation of Vickers cracks and compared with the monolithic ZrB2–SiC ceramic. The results showed that the laminated ZrB2–SiC ceramic exhibited better resistance to crack propagation and thermal shock under water quenching condition, and the critical temperature difference (ΔTc) of laminated ZrB2–SiC ceramic (ΔTc ≈ 590°C) was much higher than that of monolithic ceramic (ΔTc ≈ 290°C). The significant improvement in thermal shock resistance was attributed to residual stresses enhancing the resistance to crack growth during thermal shock loading.
Using the Care Dependency Scale for identifying patients at risk for pressure ulcer
Authors: Dijkstra Ate , Kazimier Hetty , Halfens Ruud J.G.
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to evaluate risk screening for pressure ulcer by using the Care Dependency Scale (CDS) for patients receiving home care or admitted to a residential or nursing home in the Netherlands.

Background

Pressure ulcer is a serious and persistent problem for patients throughout the Western world. Pressure ulcer is among the most common adverse events in nursing practice and when a pressure ulcer occurs it has many consequences for patients and healthcare professionals.

Design

Cross‐sectional design.

Methods

The convenience sample consisted of 13,633 study participants, of whom 2639 received home care from 15 organisations, 4077 were patients from 67 residential homes and 6917 were admitted in 105 nursing homes. Data were taken from the Dutch National Prevalence Survey of Care Problems that was carried out in April 2012 in Dutch healthcare settings.

Results

For the three settings, cut‐off points above 80% sensitivity were established, while in the residential home sample an almost 60% combined specificity score was identified.

The CDS items ‘Body posture’ (home care), ‘Getting dressed and undressed’ (residential homes) and ‘Mobility’ (nursing homes) were the most significant variables which affect PU.

Conclusions

The CDS is able to distinguish between patients at risk for pressure ulcer development and those not at risk in both home care and residential care settings. In nursing homes, the usefulness of the CDS for pressure ulcer detection is limited.
A randomized controlled trial of the feasibility and preliminary efficacy of a texting intervention on medication adherence in adults prescribed oral anti‐cancer agents: study protocol
Authors: Spoelstra Sandra L. , Given Charles W. , Sikorskii Alla , Coursaris Constantinos K. , Majumder Atreyee , DeKoekkoek Tracy , Schueller Monica , Given Barbara A.
Published: June 2015

Aim

The aim of this study was to report a study protocol that examines feasibility, preliminary efficacy and satisfaction of a text message intervention on the outcome of medication adherence in adult patients prescribed oral anti‐cancer agents.

Background

Administration of oral anti‐cancer agents occurs in the home setting, requiring patients to self‐manage the regimen as prescribed. However, many barriers to medication adherence exist: regimens are often complex, with cycling of two or more medications; side effects of treatment; most cancer patients are older with comorbid conditions and competing demands; and cognitive decline and forgetfulness may occur. Research indicates patients miss nearly one‐third of the prescribed oral anti‐cancer agent dosages. Text message interventions have been shown to improve medication adherence in chronic conditions other than cancer. However, a majority of those patients were less than 50 years of age and most cancer patients are diagnosed later in life.

Design

A two‐group randomized controlled trial with repeated measures.

Methods

Seventy‐five adult patients newly prescribed an oral anti‐cancer agent will be recruited (project funded in April 2013) from community cancer centres and a specialty pharmacy. Participants will be randomized to either a control group (n = 25; usual care) or an intervention group (n = 50; usual care plus text messages timed to medication regimen). Outcome measures include: medication adherence, feasibility and satisfaction with the intervention. Data will be collected over 8 weeks: baseline, weekly and exit.

Discussion

Standardized text message intervention protocol and detailed study procedures have been developed in this study to improve medication adherence.
Redox status of high‐mobility group box 1 performs a dual role in angiogenesis of colorectal carcinoma
Authors: Zhu Lingyin , Ren Lin , Chen Yingxuan , Fang Jingyuan , Ge Zhizheng , Li Xiaobo
Published: June 2015

During inflammation, high‐mobility group box 1 in reduced all‐thiol form (at‐HMGB1) takes charge of chemoattractant activity, whereas only disulfide‐HMGB1 (ds‐HMGB1) has cytokine activity. Also as pro‐angiogenic inducer, the role of HMGB1 in different redox states has never been defined in tumour angiogenesis. To verify which redox states of HMGB1 induces angiogenesis in colorectal carcinoma. To measure the expression of VEGF‐A and angiogenic properties of the endothelial cells (ECs), at‐HMGB1 or ds‐HMGB1 was added to cell medium, further with their special inhibitors (DPH1.1 mAb and 2G7 mAb) and antibodies of corresponding receptors (RAGE Ab and TLR4 Ab). Also, a co‐culture system and conditioned medium from tumour cells were applied to mimic tumour microenvironment. HMGB1 triggered VEGF‐A secretion mainly through its disulfide form interacting with TLR4, while co‐operation of at‐HMGB1 and RAGE mediated migratory capacity of ECs. Functional inhibition of HMGB1 and its receptors abrogated HMGB1‐induced angiogenic properties of ECs co‐cultured with tumour cells. HMGB1 orchestrates the key events of tumour angiogenesis, migration of ECs and their induction to secrete VEGF‐A, by adopting distinct redox states.
Telomere dynamics in parasitic great spotted cuckoos and their magpie hosts
Authors: Soler J. J. , Ruiz Castellano C. , Martínez‐de la Puente J. , Tomás G. , Ruiz‐Rodríguez M. , Figuerola J.
Published: June 2015

Although little is known on the impact of environment on telomere length dynamics, it has been suggested to be affected by stress, lifestyle and/or life‐history strategies of animals. We here compared telomere dynamics in erythrocytes of hatchlings and fledglings of the brood parasite great spotted cuckoos (Clamator glandarius) and of magpies (Pica pica), their main host in Europe. In magpie chicks, telomere length decreased from hatching to fledging, whereas no significant change in telomere length of great spotted cuckoo chicks was found. Moreover, we found interspecific differences in the association between laying date and telomere shortening. Interspecific differences in telomere shortening were interpreted as a consequence of differences in lifestyle and life‐history characteristics of magpies and great spotted cuckoos. In comparison with magpies, cuckoos experience reduced sibling competition and higher access to resources and, consequently, lower stressful environmental conditions during the nestling phase. These characteristics also explain the associations between telomere attrition and environmental conditions (i.e. laying date) for magpies and the absence of association for great spotted cuckoos. These results therefore fit expectations on telomere dynamics derived from interspecific differences in lifestyle and life history of brood parasites and their bird hosts.
Attraction of wild‐like and colony‐reared Bactrocera cucurbitae (Diptera:Tephritidae) to cuelure in the field
Authors: Manoukis N. C. , Gayle S. M.
Published: June 2015

The attraction of wild tephritids to semiochemical‐based lures is the ideal basis for trap network design in detection programmes, but in practice, mass‐reared colony insects are usually used to determine trap efficiency. For Bactrocera cucurbitae Coquillett, a lower response by wild males compared with colony‐derived individuals, usually used to estimate attraction parameters, could mean that the sensitivity of detection networks targeting this pest is reduced. We describe the results of mark–release–recapture experiments with wild‐ and colony‐derived B. cucurbitae males in a grid of cuelure‐baited traps within a macadamia nut orchard in Hawaii Island designed to quantify the attraction of cuelure to each fly type. For colony males, we estimate a 65% probability of capture at 27 m, intermediate with previous estimates on the attraction of methyl eugenol to Bactrocera dorsalis Hendel (36 m) and trimedlure to Ceratitis capitata Wiedemann (14 m) at the same site. Results suggest similar response over distance by wild‐derived B. cucurbitae compared with colony in the field, but there may be qualitative differences in response between wild and colony based on very low response of wild males in a standard bioassay of attraction. For both fly types, the estimates of attraction in the smaller of two grid sizes tested were lower than for the larger spacing, suggesting trap competition was a factor at an intertrap distance of 75 m. Dispersal patterns within the grid were generally to the south for the colony‐derived males and more variable for the wild‐derived males. In neither case was the direction of recapture correlated with the prevailing direction of the wind.
Efficacy and long‐term durability of intradermal recombinant hepatitis B virus vaccine among intramuscular vaccine nonresponders: A prospective study in healthcare personnel
Authors: Kalchiem‐Dekel Or , Grupel Daniel , Bouchnik Lea , Sikuler Emanuel , Ben‐Yakov Gil
Published: June 2015

Background:

Data on efficacy, safety, and durability of intradermal vaccine administration in persons who have not responded appropriately to intramuscular administration of hepatitis B virus (HBV) vaccine are relatively scarce.

Methods:

We designed a prospective case series in an urban tertiary care hospital in Israel. The medical records of 4007 healthcare personnel who had worked in the hospital between 1996 and 2006 were examined and those with an unsatisfactory level (<10 mIU/ml) of hepatitis B surface antibody (HBsAb) following two courses of a three‐dose intramuscular HBV vaccine (“nonresponders”) were identified. Nonresponders were vaccinated with three doses of 5 µg of intradermal recombinant hepatitis B surface antigen‐based vaccine at weeks 0, 2, and 4. Level of HBsAb was determined 4 weeks after the last dose, and an additional dose was administered as needed. HBsAb level was again determined 24 weeks after the final vaccine dose to assess late immune reactivity and long‐term durability of the vaccine. Vaccine safety was assessed at each vaccination and testing session.

Results:

Twenty‐seven subjects were included in the study, and 21 completed the study. The proportion of subjects with satisfactory HBsAb level at 4 weeks after the last administered dose was 70.3% (19/27). The proportion of subjects with sustained immune response at 24 weeks was 62.9% (17/27) according to intention‐to‐treat analysis and 80.9% (17/21) according to per protocol analysis. There were no reports of adverse events in response to the administration of the vaccine.

Conclusions:

Intradermal administration of HBV vaccine offers an efficient, safe, and durable option for intramuscular vaccine nonresponders and represents a means to optimize utilization of the widespread HBs antigen‐based vaccine formulation.
New Clasp Assembly for Distal Extension Removable Partial Dentures: The Reverse RPA Clasp
Authors: Hakkoum Mohammad Ayham
Published: June 2015

Several clasp types are used in distal extension removable partial dentures. In some cases the terminal abutments have only distal retentive undercuts that can be occupied by bar clasps; however, bar clasps may be contraindicated with no suitable alternative. This article presents a reasonable solution by introducing a new clasp design as a modification to the well‐known RPA clasp. The design includes a mesial rest, proximal plate, and buccal retentive arm arising from the rest and extending to reach the distal retentive undercut.
Positive HBcAb is associated with higher risk of early recurrence and poorer survival after curative resection of HBV‐related HCC
Authors: Li Tao , Wang Shu‐Kang , Zhou Jian , Sun Hui‐Chuan , Qiu Shuang‐Jian , Ye Qing‐Hai , Wang Lu , Fan Jia
Published: June 2015

Background & Aims

Previous studies predicted the prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) mainly based on tumour‐related factors, whereas the impacts of hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related factors are usually ignored. The objective of this exploratory study was to investigate the prognostic role of hepatitis B core antibody (HBcAb) on post‐operative survival and recurrence of HCC.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 3388 HBsAg positive (HBV‐related) HCC patients treated by curative resection was performed. Multivariate analysis of independent prognostic factors was performed by Cox proportional hazards regression model.

Results

HBcAb positivity was an independent prognostic factor for recurrence‐free survival (RFS) of HBV‐related patients (P < 0.001, HR: 1.723, 95% CI: 1.278–2.324), and the 1‐, 3‐, 5‐year RFS rates for HBcAb‐negative patients were significantly better than those of HBcAb‐positive patients (92.5%, 72.1% and 65.9% vs 77.9%, 58.6% and 46.9%, P < 0.001). HBcAb‐positive HCC was much bigger (P = 0.006), more often involved with vascular invasion (P = 0.001), elevated AFP (P = 0.001) and ALT (P = 0.046) levels, but less often involved with capsule formation (P = 0.034). Besides vascular invasion, tumour size, interferon‐α treatment, AFP and GGT level, HBcAb positivity was an independent prognostic factor for early intrahepatic recurrence of HBV‐related patients (P = 0.025, HR: 1.766, 95% CI: 1.073–2.907) and the majority of HBcAb‐positive recurrence were early recurrence while most of HBcAb‐negative recurrence were late recurrence (P = 0.004).

Conclusion

Positive HBcAb may represent a more invasive phenotype of HBV‐related HCC, and is associated with a higher risk of early intrahepatic recurrence and poorer RFS of HBV‐related patients after curative resection.
Acyl acceptor recognition by Enterococcus faeciuml,d‐transpeptidase Ldtfm
Authors: Triboulet Sébastien , Bougault Catherine M. , Laguri Cédric , Hugonnet Jean‐Emmanuel , Arthur Michel , Simorre Jean‐Pierre
Published: June 2015

In Mycobacterium tuberculosis and ampicillin‐resistant mutants of Enterococcus faecium, the classical target of β‐lactam antibiotics is bypassed by l,d‐transpeptidases that form unusual 3 → 3 peptidoglycan cross‐links. β‐lactams of the carbapenem class, such as ertapenem, are mimics of the acyl donor substrate and inactivate l,d‐transpeptidases by acylation of their catalytic cysteine. We have blocked the acyl donor site of E. faecium l,d‐transpeptidase Ldtfm by ertapenem and identified the acyl acceptor site based on analyses of chemical shift perturbations induced by binding of peptidoglycan fragments to the resulting acylenzyme. An nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)‐driven docking structure of the complex revealed key hydrogen interactions between the acyl acceptor and Ldtfm that were evaluated by site‐directed mutagenesis and development of a cross‐linking assay. Three residues are reported as critical for stabilisation of the acceptor in the Ldtfm active site and proper orientation of the nucleophilic nitrogen for the attack of the acylenzyme carbonyl. Identification of the catalytic pocket dedicated to the acceptor substrate opens new perspectives for the design of inhibitors with an original mode of action that could act alone or in synergy with β‐lactams.
Reaching across: institutional barriers to cross‐ethnic parties in post‐conflict societies and the case of Northern Ireland
Authors: Murtagh Cera
Published: June 2015

This paper investigates the paradox in post‐conflict societies of continued marginality of cross‐ethnic parties despite significant convergence in public attitudes and identities. In so doing, it examines the argument that parties that attempt to reach across the divide are constrained by consocational institutions designed to accommodate rival identities in such environments. The paper explores this puzzle in the context of Northern Ireland, drawing upon qualitative evidence from elite interviews and focus groups collected in 2012 and 2013. It concludes that cross‐community parties operating in the region do encounter formal institutional barriers, but that such barriers only partially explain the phenomenon and an interplay between formal and informal constraints underlies their position of relatively limited electoral success.
Biblical beliefs in the shaping of modern nations
Authors: Smith Anthony D.
Published: June 2015

The ideology and culture of modern nations and nationalism have been profoundly influenced by two traditions that reach back into the ancient world, the biblical and the classical. Here, the focus is on the particular contribution of theHebrewBible to the political ideals of modern nationhood. ModernWestern nations, unlike non‐Western and ancient nations, are distinguished by their quest for territorial integrity and sovereignty, citizenship, legal standardisation, cultural homogeneity and secular education, while modern nationalismis a pro‐active, ideological movement that seeks to ‘build’ autonomous, unified, distinctive and ‘authentic’ nations out of ethnic populations deemed by some members to constitute actual or potential ‘nations’. While modernEuropean nations emerged out of the matrix ofChristianity, asAdrianHastings argued, it was the political model and ideals of community found in theHebrewBible, whichChristianity adopted (while rejecting theJews) and which theNewTestament lacked, that so often provided the dynamic of modern nationalism and the values of modernWestern nations. Chief among these were thePentateuchal and prophetic narratives ofExodus,Covenant,Community ofLaw (Torah), the holiness of a ‘chosen people’, the messianic role of sacred kingship and the dream of fulfilment in thePromisedLand. These ideals did not fully come into their own until theReformation. In this period, state elites expressed growing national sentiments and biblical texts were being rendered into the vernacular, while a more rigorous biblical form of ‘covenantal nationalism’ emerged in early modernNetherlands,Scotland andEngland, taking the narrative of the deliverance of theIsraelites as its starting point. In the eighteenth‐centuryEnlightenment, the novel cults of ‘Nature’, ‘Authenticity’ and ‘HumanPerfectibility’ secured an opening for neo‐classical political ideas in the formation of nations. But it was the biblical ideals of liberation, Covenant, election and promised land that provided the basic model of the modern nation and nationalism inEurope, from theFrenchRevolution, andGerman andEastEuropean nationalisms to theHebraicProtestant nationalism ofVictorianBritain. To a large extent, the modern age owes to theJewishBible its fundamental vision of a world divided into distinctive and sovereign territorial nations.
The Experience Sampling Method ‐ a new digital tool for momentary symptom assessment in IBS: an exploratory study
Authors: Mujagic Z. , Leue C. , Vork L. , Lousberg R. , Jonkers D. M. A. E. , Keszthelyi D. , Hesselink M. A. , van Schagen T. J. C. , van Os J. , Masclee A. A. M. , Kruimel J. W.
Published: June 2015

Background

Retrospective questionnaires are frequently used for symptom assessment in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients, but are influenced by recall bias and circumstantial and psychological factors. These limitations may be overcome by random, repeated, momentary assessment during the day, using electronic Experience Sampling Methodology (ESM). Therefore, we compared symptom assessment by ESM to retrospective paper questionnaires in IBS patients.

Methods

Twenty‐six IBS patients (Rome III) were included, of which 16 were diagnosed with panic disorder (DSM‐IV‐TR). Patients scored symptoms using end‐of‐day diaries during 14 days and the gastrointestinal symptom rating scale (GSRS) once. ESM was used on seven consecutive days during the same time period.

Key Results

End‐of‐day diary abdominal pain scores were 0.4 (SE 0.1, p < 0.001) point higher (on a 1‐to‐5‐point scale) compared to corresponding ESM mean‐scores in IBS patients. The difference was even more pronounced for upper abdominal pain scores assessed by the GSRS (4.77 ± 1.50) compared to ESM mean‐scores (2.44 ± 1.30, p < 0.001), both on 1‐to‐7‐point scale. For flatulence, comparable results were found. Nausea and belching scores showed small, but significant differences between end‐of‐day diary and ESM. All tested symptoms were scored higher on GSRS compared to ESM mean‐scores (p < 0.01). Affective comorbidity did not influence differences in pain reporting between methods.

Conclusions & Inferences

IBS patients report higher scores for abdominal pain in retrospective questionnaires compared to ESM, with a tendency to report peak rather than average pain scores. ESM can provide more insight in symptom course and potential triggers, and may lead to a better understanding of IBS symptomatology.
Two serine residues in Pseudomonas syringae effector HopZ1a are required for acetyltransferase activity and association with the host co‐factor
Authors: Ma Ka‐Wai , Jiang Shushu , Hawara Eva , Lee DongHyuk , Pan Songqin , Coaker Gitta , Song Jikui , Ma Wenbo
Published: June 2015

Gram‐negative bacteria inject type III secreted effectors (T3SEs) into host cells to manipulate the immune response. The YopJ family effector HopZ1a produced by the plant pathogen Pseudomonas syringae possesses acetyltransferase activity and acetylates plant proteins to facilitate infection.

Using mass spectrometry, we identified a threonine residue, T346, as the main autoacetylation site of HopZ1a. Two neighboring serine residues, S349 and S351, are required for the acetyltransferase activity of HopZ1a in vitro and are indispensable for the virulence function of HopZ1a in Arabidopsis thaliana.

Using proton nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR), we observed a conformational change of HopZ1a in the presence of inositol hexakisphosphate (IP6), which acts as a eukaryotic co‐factor and significantly enhances the acetyltransferase activity of several YopJ family effectors. S349 and S351 are required for IP6‐binding‐mediated conformational change of HopZ1a.

S349 and S351 are located in a conserved region in the C‐terminal domain of YopJ family effectors. Mutations of the corresponding serine(s) in two other effectors, HopZ3 of P. syringae and PopP2 of Ralstonia solanacerum, also abolished their acetyltransferase activity. These results suggest that, in addition to the highly conserved catalytic residues, YopJ family effectors also require conserved serine(s) in the C‐terminal domain for their enzymatic activity.
ECONOMICALLY OPTIMAL MARINE RESERVES WITHOUT SPATIAL HETEROGENEITY IN A SIMPLE TWO‐PATCH MODEL
Authors: MOELLER HOLLY V. , NEUBERT MICHAEL G.
Published: June 2015

Bioeconomic analyses of spatial fishery models have established that marine reserves can be economically optimal (i.e., maximize sustainable profit) when there is some type of spatial heterogeneity in the system. Analyses of spatially continuous models and models with more than two discrete patches have also demonstrated that marine reserves can be economically optimal even when the system is spatially homogeneous. In this note we analyze a spatially homogeneous two‐patch model and show that marine reserves can be economically optimal in this case as well. The model we study includes the possibility that fishing can damage habitat. In this model, marine reserves are necessary to maximize sustainable profit when dispersal between the patches is sufficiently high and habitat is especially vulnerable to damage.