bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Medicago truncatulaMOT1.3 is a plasma membrane molybdenum transporter required for nitrogenase activity in root nodules
Authors: Tejada-Jiménez Manuel , Gil-Díez Patricia , León-Mediavilla Javier , Wen Jiangqi , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Imperial Juan , González-Guerrero Manuel
Published: January 2017

Molybdenum, as a component of the iron-molybdenum cofactor of nitrogenase, is essential for symbiotic nitrogen fixation. This nutrient has to be provided by the host plant through molybdate transporters.

Members of the molybdate transporters family MOT1 were identified in the model legumeMedicago truncatulaand their expression in nodules determined. Yeast toxicity assays, confocal microscopy, and phenotypical characterization of aTnt1insertional mutant line were carried out in the oneM. truncatulaMOT1 family member expressed specifically in nodules.

Among the five MOT1 members present inM. truncatulagenome,MtMOT1.3is the only one uniquely expressed in nodules. MtMOT1.3 shows molybdate transport capabilities when expressed in yeast. Immunolocalization studies revealed that MtMOT1.3 is located in the plasma membrane of nodule cells. Amot1.3-1knockout mutant showed an impaired growth concomitant with a reduction in nitrogenase activity. This phenotype was rescued by increasing molybdate concentrations in the nutritive solution, or upon addition of an assimilable nitrogen source. Furthermore,mot1.3-1plants transformed with a functional copy ofMtMOT1.3showed a wild type-like phenotype.

These data are consistent with a model in which MtMOT1.3 would be responsible for introducing molybdate into nodule cells, which will be later used to synthesize functional nitrogenase.
Basal forebrain gating by somatostatin neurons drives cortical activity
Authors: Espinosa Nelson , Alonso Alejandra , Morales Cristian , Fuentealba Pablo
Published: January 2017

The basal forebrain provides modulatory input to the cortex regulating brain states and cognitive processing. Somatostatin-expressing cells constitute a local GABAergic source known to functionally inhibit the major cortically-projecting cell types. However, it remains unclear if somatostatin cells can regulate the basal forebrain’s synaptic output and thus control cortical dynamics. Here, we demonstrate in mice that somatostatin neurons regulate the corticopetal synaptic output of the basal forebrain impinging on cortical activity and behavior. Optogenetic inactivation of somatostatin neurons in vivo increased spiking of some basal forebrain cells, rapidly enhancing and desynchronizing neural activity in the prefrontal cortex, inhibiting slow rhythms and increasing gamma oscillations. Locomotor activity was specifically increased in quiescent animals, but not in active mice. Altogether, we provide physiological and behavioral evidence indicating that somatostatin cells are pivotal in gating the synaptic output of the basal forebrain, thus indirectly controlling cortical operations via both cholinergic and non-cholinergic mechanisms.
The butterfly effect: amplification of local changes along the temporal processing hierarchy
Authors: Yeshurun Y , Nguyen M , Hasson U.
Published: January 2017

Changing just a few words in a story can induce a substantial change in the overall narrative. How does the brain accumulate and process local and sparse changes, creating a unique situation model of the story, over the course of a real-life narrative? Recently, we mapped a hierarchy of processing timescales in the brain: from early sensory areas that integrate information over 10s-100s ms, to high-order areas that integrate information over many seconds to minutes. Based on this hierarchy, we hypothesize that early sensory areas would be sensitive to local changes in word use, but that there will be increasingly divergent neural responses along the processing hierarchy as higher-order areas accumulate and amplify these local changes. To test this hypothesis, we created two structurally related but interpretively distinct narratives by changing some individual words. We found that the neural response distance between the stories was amplified as story information is transferred from low-level regions (e.g. early auditory cortex) to high-level regions (e.g precuneus and prefrontal cortex) and that the neural difference between stories is highly correlated with an area’s ability to integrate information over time. Our results suggest a neural mechanism by which two similar situations become easy to distinguish.
Genome-wide association mapping of correlated traits in cassava: dry matter and total carotenoid content
Authors: Rabbi Ismail Y. , Udoh Lovina I. , Wolfe Marnin , Parkes Elizabeth Y. , Gedil Melaku A. , Dixon Alfred , Ramu Punna , Jannink Jean-Luc , Kulakow Peter
Published: January 2017

Cassava (Manihot esculenta(L.) Crantz) is a starchy root crop cultivated in the tropics for fresh consumption and commercial processing. Dry matter content and micronutrient density, particularly of provitamin A – traits that are negatively correlated – are among the primary selection objectives in cassava breeding. This study aimed at identifying genetic markers associated with these traits and uncovering the potential underlying cause of their negative correlation – whether linkage and/or pleiotropy. A genome-wide association mapping using 672 clones genotyped at 72,279 SNP loci was carried out. Root yellowness was used indirectly to assess variation in carotenoid content. Two major loci for root yellowness was identified on chromosome 1 at positions 24.1 and 30.5 Mbp. A single locus for dry matter content that co-located with the 24.1 Mbp peak for carotenoid content was identified. Haplotypes at these loci explained a large proportion of the phenotypic variability. Evidence of mega-base-scale linkage disequilibrium around the major loci of the two traits and detection of the major dry matter locus in independent analysis for the white- and yellow-root subpopulations suggests that physical linkage rather that pleiotropy is more likely to be the cause of the negative correlation between the target traits. Moreover, candidate genes for carotenoid (phytoene synthase) and starch biosynthesis (UDP-glucose pyrophosphorylaseandsucrose synthase) occurred in the vicinity of the identified locus at 24.1 Mbp. These findings elucidate on the genetic architecture of carotenoids and dry matter in cassava and provides an opportunity to accelerate genetic improvement of these traits.

CORE IDEAS

Cassava, a starchy root crop, is a major source of dietary calories in the tropics.

Most varieties consumed are poor in micronutrients, including pro-vitamin A.

These two traits are governed by few major loci on chromosome one.

Genetic linkage, rather than pleiotropy, is the most likely cause of their negative correlation.
Re-evaluating functional landscape of the cardiovascular system during development
Authors: Takada Norio , Omae Madoka , Sagawa Fumihiko , Chi Neil C. , Endo Satsuki , Kozawa Satoshi , Sato Thomas N.
Published: January 2017

The cardiovascular system facilitates body-wide distribution of oxygen, a vital process for development and survival of virtually all vertebrates. However, zebrafish, a vertebrate model organism, appears to form organs and survive mid-larval periods without the functional cardiovascular system. Despite such dispensability, it is the first organ to develop. Such enigma prompted us to hypothesize yet other cardiovascular functions that are important for developmental and/or physiological processes. Hence, systematic cellular ablations and functional perturbations are performed on zebrafish cardiovascular system to gain comprehensive and body-wide understanding of such functions and to elucidate underlying mechanisms. This approach identifies a set of organ-specific genes, each implicated for important functions. The study also unveils distinct cardiovascular mechanisms, each differentially regulating their expressions in organ-specific and oxygen-independent manners. Such mechanisms are mediated by organ-vessel interactions, circulation-dependent signals, and circulation-independent beating-heart-derived signals. Hence, a comprehensive and body-wide functional landscape of the cardiovascular system reported herein may provide a clue as to why it is the first organ to develop. Furthermore, the dataset herein could serve as a resource for the study of organ development and function.

SUMMARY STATEMENT

The body-wide landscape of the cardiovascular functions during development is reported. Such landscape may provide a clue as to why the cardiovascular system is the first organ to develop.
Metagenomic Sequencing Detects Respiratory Pathogens in Hematopoietic Cellular Transplant Patients
Authors: Langelier C , Zinter MS , Kalantar K , Yanik GA , Christenson S , Odonovan B , White C , Wilson M , Sapru A , Dvorak CC , Miller S , Chiu CY , DeRisi JL
Published: January 2017

RATIONALE

Current microbiologic diagnostics often fail to identify the etiology of lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in hematopoietic cellular transplant recipients (HCT), which precludes the implementation of targeted therapies.

OBJECTIVES

To address the need for improved LRTI diagnostics, we evaluated the utility of metagenomic next generation sequencing (mNGS) of bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) to detect microbial pathogens in HCT patients with acute respiratory illnesses.

METHODS

We enrolled 22 post-HCT adults ages 19-69 years with acute respiratory illnesses who underwent BAL at the University of Michigan between January 2012 and May 2013. mNGS was performed on BAL fluid to detect microbes and simultaneously assess the host transcriptional response. Results were compared against conventional microbiologic assays.

MEASUREMENTS & MAIN RESULTS

mNGS demonstrated 100% sensitivity for detecting respiratory microbes (human metapneumovirus, respiratory syncytial virus,Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, human herpesvirus 6 and cytomegalovirus) when compared to standard testing. Previously unrecognized LRTI pathogens were identified in six patients for whom standard testing was negative (human coronavirus 229E, human rhinovirus A,Corynebacterium propinquumandStreptococcus mitis); findings were confirmed by independent PCR and 16S rRNA sequencing. Relative to patients without infection, patients with infection had increased expression of immunity related genes (p=0.022) and significantly lower diversity of their respiratory microbiome (p=0.017).

CONCLUSIONS

Compared to conventional diagnostics, mNGS enhanced detection of pathogens in BAL fluid from HCT patients. Furthermore, our results suggest that combining unbiased microbial pathogen detection with assessment of host gene biomarkers of immune response may hold promise for enhancing the diagnosis of post-HCT respiratory infections.
Structure of the full-length VEGFR-1 extracellular domain in complex with VEGF-A
Authors: Markovic-Mueller Sandra , Stuttfeld Edward , Asthana Mayanka , Weinert Tobias , Bliven Spencer , Goldie Kenneth N. , Kisko Kaisa , Capitani Guido , Ballmer-Hofer Kurt
Published: January 2017

Vascular Endothelial Growth Factors (VEGFs) regulate blood and lymph vessel development upon activation of three receptor tyrosine kinases (RTKs), VEGFR-1, −2, and −3. Partial structures of VEGFR/VEGF complexes based on single particle electron microscopy, small angle X-ray scattering, and X-ray crystallography revealed the location of VEGF binding and domain arrangement of individual receptor subdomains. Here we describe the structure of the full-length VEGFR-1 extracellular domain (ECD) in complex with VEGF-A at 4 Å resolution. We combined X-ray crystallography, single particle electron microscopy, and molecular modeling for structure determination and validation. The structure reveals the molecular details of ligand-induced receptor dimerization, in particular of homotypic receptor interactions in Ig-domains 4, 5, and 7. Functional analyses of ligand binding and receptor activation confirm the relevance of these homotypic contacts and identify them as potential therapeutic sites to allosterically inhibit VEGFR-1 activity.
Environmental scan
Authors: Rathi Dinesh , Shiri Ali , Cockney Catherine
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to propose an evidence-based environmental scanning model that will provide a methodological framework for conducting community-engaged and community-focused research, with a particular emphasis on northern communities in Canada.

Design/methodology/approach

The study has adopted a multifaceted environmental scanning approach to understand the Inuvialuit Settlement Region communities. The research design is informed by various environmental models as discussed in literature from a broad range of domains such as business, library and information science (LIS), and a sophisticated multimethod data gathering approach that included field trips, observations, surveys, as well as informal methods of community engagement.

Findings

The paper proposes an environmental scan model as a novel approach to community-focused digital library (DL) development. The paper identifies both macro- and micro-environmental landscapes as applicable to the development of a DL for communities in Canada’s North. The macro-environmental landscapes include: geographical, historical and sociocultural, political and regulatory, economic, technological, competition, and human resource. The micro-environmental landscapes include: stakeholder and community, linguistic, information resource, and ownership.

Originality/value

The environmental scanning model and its key components presented in this paper provide a novel and concrete example of a project that aims to organize information for increased access and to create value through the design and implementation of an infrastructure for a cultural heritage DL. The environmental scan model will also contribute to both research and practice in the field of Library and Information Science (LIS), particularly in the area of DL development for rural, remote, and indigenous communities.
Novel design topology for low leakage field and vibration motor
Authors: Salon Sheppard , Ergene Lale T.
Published: January 2017

Purpose:

The purpose of the paper is to introduce a novel design topology for an electric motor, which has essentially none of the normal sources of magnetic alternating force.

Design/methodology/approach:

Two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) finite element methods are used to analyze the electromagnetic performance of the proposed machine. 3D integral equations are used to calculate the scalar potentials. Detailed manufacturing process and the results of the testing are presented.

Findings

The new design will eliminate core vibrations, slot passing frequency vibrations and torque pulsations. The motor also has the property that the external magnetic field is controllable and tunable after the construction.

Social implications

This approach increases the motor efficiency.

Originality/value:

The proposed machine has low field and vibration, so it can be used where low exterior fields are required.
Influence of the shape of squirrel-cage bars on the dimensions of permanent magnets in an optimized line-start permanent magnet synchronous motor
Authors: Knypiński Łukasz , Jedryczka Cezary , Demenko Andrzej
Published: January 2017

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to compare parameters and properties of optimal structures of a line-start permanent magnet synchronous motor (LSPMSM) for the cage winding of a different rotor bar shape.

Design/methodology/approach

The mathematical model of the considered motor includes the equation of the electromagnetic field, the electric circuit equations and equation of mechanical equilibrium. The numerical implementation is based on finite element method (FEM) and step-by-step algorithm. To improve the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm convergence, the velocity equation in the classical PSO method is supplemented by an additional term. This term represents the location of the center of mass of the swarm. The modified particle swarm algorithm (PSO-MC) has been used in the optimization calculations.

Findings

The LSPMSM with drop type bars has better performance and synchronization parameters than motors with circular bars. It is also proved that the used modification of the classical PSO procedure ensures faster convergence for solving the problem of optimization LSPMSM. This modification is particularly useful when the field model of phenomena is used.

Originality/value

The authors noticed that to obtain the maximum power factor and efficiency of the LSPMSM, the designer should take into account dimensions and the placement of the magnets in the designing process. In the authors’ opinion, the equivalent circuit models can be used only at the preliminary stage of the designing of line-start permanent magnet motors.
A synthesis of tree functional traits related to drought‐induced mortality in forests across climatic zones
Authors: O'Brien Michael J. , Engelbrecht Bettina M. J. , Joswig Julia , Pereyra Gabriela , Schuldt Bernhard , Jansen Steven , Kattge Jens , Landhäusser Simon M. , Levick Shaun R. , Preisler Yakir , Väänänen Päivi , Macinnis‐Ng Cate
Published: January 2017

Forest dieback caused by drought‐induced tree mortality has been observed world‐wide. Forecasting which trees in which locations are vulnerable to drought‐induced mortality is important to predict the consequences of drought on forest structure, biodiversity and ecosystem function.

In this paper, our central aim was to compile a synthesis of tree traits and associated abiotic variables that can be used to predict drought‐induced mortality.

We reviewed the literature that specifically links drought mortality to functional traits and site conditions (i.e. edaphic variables and biotic conditions), targeting studies that show clear use of tree traits in drought analysis. We separated the review into five climatic zones to determine global vs. regionally restricted relationships between traits and mortality.

Our synthesis identifies a number of traits that have clear relationships with drought‐induced mortality (e.g. wood density at the species level and tree size and growth at the individual level). However, the lack of direct relationships between most traits and drought‐induced mortality highlights areas where future research should focus to broaden our understanding.

Synthesis and applications. Our synthesis highlights established relationships between traits and drought‐induced mortality, presents knowledge gaps for future research focus and suggests monitoring and research avenues for improving our understanding of drought‐induced mortality. It is intended to assist ecologists and natural resource managers choose appropriate and measurable parameters for predicting local and regional scale tree mortality risk in different climatic zones within constraints of time and funding availability.
Preliminary Data on the Role of Emotional Intelligence in Mediating the Relationship Between Psychopathic Characteristics and Detention Terms of Property Offenders
Authors: Curci Antonietta , Soleti Emanuela , Manuti Amelia
Published: January 2017

We present preliminary data on the role of emotional intelligence (EI) in mediating the relationship between psychopathy and detention term of authors of property crimes. We assumed that the detention term is an approximation of the severity of criminal behavior. A sample of 24 property offenders were individually administered a brief anamnestic interview, the Psychopathic Personality Inventory—Revised (PPI‐R), and the Mayer–Salovey–Caruso Emotional Intelligence Test (MSCEIT). Information concerning the detention term was obtained from prison records. A mediation model was applied to the data showing that offenders high in psychopathic traits (i.e., total PPI‐R score and Self‐centered dimension of PPI‐R) have a low level of ability EI and this is in turn negatively associated with the duration of their prison sentence. Results encourage the investigation of ability EI as a protective factor against the antisocial outcomes of psychopathic disorder.
Profile of Hospital Admissions due to Self‐Inflicted Harm in Los Angeles County from 2001 to 2010
Authors: Bazargan‐Hejazi Shahrzad , Ahmadi Alireza , Bazargan Mohsen , Rahmani Elham , Pan Deyu , Zahmatkesh Golara , Teruya Stacey
Published: January 2017

We aimed to describe the demographic profile of self‐inflicted harm (SIH) in Los Angeles County between 2001 and 2010 and to investigate trends over this 10‐year period. We used the California Hospital Discharge Data to investigate all cases of hospital admission due to SIH, including suicide attempts and if they had a concurrent psychiatric diagnosis based on ICD‐9 codes. African‐Americans (AA) had the highest 10‐year SIH admission rates. SIH admission rates remained steady throughout the 10‐year study period. Median age of SIH was significantly lower in Latinos. Episodic mood disorders were the most common psychiatric comorbidity. The use of solid/liquid poisoning was the most common SIH method among all racial/ethnic groups. We found major disparities in SIH admissions across racial/ethnic subgroups. The importance of programs to identify, prevent, and treat SIH in these groups is discussed.
Frozen: Thawing and Its Effect on the Postmortem Microbiome in Two Pediatric Cases,
Authors: Pechal Jennifer L. , Schmidt Carl J. , Jordan Heather R. , Benbow M. Eric
Published: January 2017

Previous postmortem microbiome studies have focused on characterizing taxa turnover during an undisturbed decomposition process. How coexisting conditions (e.g., frozen, buried, burned) affect the human microbiome at the time of discovery is less well understood. Microbiome data were collected from two pediatric cases at the Wayne County Medical Examiner in Michigan. The bodies were found frozen, hidden in a freezer for an extended time. Microbial communities were sampled from six external anatomic locations at three time points during the thawing process, prior to autopsy. The 16S rRNA V4 gene amplicon region was sequenced using high‐throughput sequencing (Illumina MiSeq). Microbial diversity increased, and there was a distinct shift in microbial community structure and abundance throughout the thawing process. Overall, these data demonstrate that the postmortem human microbiome changes during the thawing process, and have important forensic implications when bodies have been substantially altered, modified, and concealed after death.
Recognizing the Best: The Productive and Counterproductive Effects of Relative Performance Recognition
Authors: Wang Laura W.
Published: January 2017

I use a laboratory experiment to examine the productive and counterproductive effects of providing employees nonpecuniary recognition based on measures of relative performance. I find that, on average, recognition programs increase both productive efforts (those intended to increase one's own performance) and counterproductive efforts (those intended to decrease peer performance) in a setting where it is salient to employees that they can exert both productive and counterproductive efforts. Interestingly, I also find that these effects are moderated by the Dark Triad of personalities, a group of three personality traits. My study reveals that recognition programs mainly lead individuals who score lower on the Dark Triad to increase counterproductive efforts and those who score higher on the Dark Triad to increase productive efforts. These results contribute to the literature on relative performance information by demonstrating that recognition programs can have both productive and counterproductive effects. However, whether these programs produce mainly a productive or counterproductive effect depends on important personality characteristics of the employees.
Credit Rating Agency and Equity Analysts’ Adjustments to GAAP Earnings
Authors: Batta George , Muslu Volkan
Published: January 2017

Moody's analysts and sell‐side equity analysts adjust GAAP earnings as part of their research. We show that adjusted earnings definitions of Moody's analysts are significantly lower than those of equity analysts when companies exhibit higher downside risk, as measured by volatility in idiosyncratic stock returns, volatility in negative market returns, poor earnings, and loss status. Relative to the adjusted earnings definitions of equity analysts, adjusted earnings definitions of Moody's analysts better predict future bankruptcies, yet they fare significantly worse in predicting future earnings and operating cash flows. These findings persist after controlling for optimism incentives of analysts, reporting incentives of companies, credit rating levels, and industry and year effects. Our findings suggest that credit rating agencies cater to their clients’ demand for a more conservative interpretation of company‐reported performance than what is offered by equity analysts.
Evaluation of the Psychometric Properties of NOC Outcomes “Anxiety Level” and “Anxiety Self‐Control” in a Portuguese Outpatient Sample
Authors: Sampaio Francisco Miguel Correia , Araújo Odete Sofia Silva Lomba , Sequeira Carlos Alberto da Cruz , Lluch Canut María Teresa , Martins Teresa
Published: January 2017

PURPOSE

To adopt the language and to evaluate the psychometric properties of “Anxiety level” and “Anxiety self‐control” NOC outcomes in Portuguese adult patients.

METHODS

Methodological design.

FINDINGS

The final European Portuguese version of the NOC outcome “Anxiety level,” composed by 16 indicators, proved excellent internal consistency. Exploratory factor analysis (EFA) was forced to three factors. The NOC outcome “Anxiety self‐control,” composed of nine indicators, demonstrated a questionable internal consistency. EFA was forced to two factors.

CONCLUSIONS

European Portuguese versions of the studied NOC outcomes proved to be tools with acceptable psychometric properties for evaluating anxiety in Portuguese patients.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

This study contributed to the development of NOC language and to the enrichment of nursing's body of knowledge.

OBJETIVO

Adaptar a linguagem e avaliar as propriedades psicométricas dos resultados NOC “Nível de ansiedade” e “Autocontrolo da ansiedade” em utentes portugueses adultos.

MÉTODOS

Estudo metodológico.

RESULTADOS

A versão portuguesa do resultado NOC “Nível de ansiedade”, composta por 16 indicadores, apresentou uma excelente consistência interna. A análise fatorial exploratória (AFE) foi forçada a três dimensões. O resultado NOC “Autocontrolo da ansiedade”, composto por nove indicadores, apresentou uma consistência interna questionável. A AFE foi forçada a duas dimensões.

CONCLUSÕES

As versões portuguesas dos resultados NOC estudados são instrumentos com propriedades psicométricas aceitáveis para avaliar a ansiedade em utentes portugueses.

IMPLICAÇÕES PARA A PRÁTICA DE ENFERMAGEM

Este estudo contribuiu para o desenvolvimento da linguagem NOC e para enriquecer o corpo de conhecimento de Enfermagem.
Peripheral cytokine and chemokine alterations in depression: a meta‐analysis of 82 studies
Authors: Köhler C. A. , Freitas T. H. , Maes M. , de Andrade N. Q. , Liu C. S. , Fernandes B. S. , Stubbs B. , Solmi M. , Veronese N. , Herrmann N. , Raison C. L. , Miller B. J. , Lanctôt K. L. , Carvalho A. F.
Published: January 2017

Objective

To conduct a systematic review and meta‐analysis of studies that measured cytokine and chemokine levels in individuals with major depressive disorder (MDD) compared to healthy controls (HCs).

Method

The PubMed/MEDLINE, EMBASE, and PsycINFO databases were searched up until May 30, 2016. Effect sizes were estimated with random‐effects models.

Result

Eighty‐two studies comprising 3212 participants with MDD and 2798 HCs met inclusion criteria. Peripheral levels of interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha, IL‐10, the soluble IL‐2 receptor, C‐C chemokine ligand 2, IL‐13, IL‐18, IL‐12, the IL‐1 receptor antagonist, and the soluble TNF receptor 2 were elevated in patients with MDD compared to HCs, whereas interferon‐gamma levels were lower in MDD (Hedge's g = −0.477, P = 0.043). Levels of IL‐1β, IL‐2, IL‐4, IL‐8, the soluble IL‐6 receptor (sIL‐6R), IL‐5, CCL‐3, IL‐17, and transforming growth factor‐beta 1 were not significantly altered in individuals with MDD compared to HCs. Heterogeneity was large (I2: 51.6–97.7%), and sources of heterogeneity were explored (e.g., age, smoking status, and body mass index).

Conclusion

Our results further characterize a cytokine/chemokine profile associated with MDD. Future studies are warranted to further elucidate sources of heterogeneity, as well as biosignature cytokines secreted by other immune cells.
Edge effects on carabid beetles (Coleoptera: Carabidae) between forest fragments and agricultural fields in south‐east Brazil
Authors: Cividanes Francisco J , dos Santos‐Cividanes Terezinha M , Ferraudo Antonio S , da Matta Danilo H
Published: January 2017

There is very little information available on the abundance, diversity and distribution of Neotropical species of carabid beetles in agroecosystems. We studied the diversity and similarity of carabids in forest fragments, soybean/corn crops and edges, and we also determined the number of individuals of carabid species in fragment and crop during the growing season of crop and the off‐season period. The study was carried out on three separate areas located in the Jaboticabal and Guaíra municipalities, São Paulo State, Brazil, from November 2004 to May 2008. Each location consisted of forest fragment, adjacent soybean/corn crop and edge. Carabids were sampled with 48 pitfall traps arranged along two parallel transects 200 m long. In total, 3544 individuals of 62 species were collected, with the following five species dominating: Abaris basistriata Chaudoir, Odontocheila nodicornis (Dejean), Tetracha brasiliensis (Kirby), Scarites sp. 3 and Scarites sp. 4. Highest species diversity occurred in the edge with weedy plants. Carabid communities showed high similarity between edge – crop and edge – fragments. Abaris basistriata, Calosoma granulatum Perty, Galerita brasiliensis Dejean, Selenophorus alternans Dejean, Selenophorus discopunctatus Dejean, T. brasiliensis and species of Scarites showed the most potential as biocontrol agents of soybean/corn pests.
Are Australian field‐collected strains of Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus (Hemiptera: Cimicidae) resistant to deltamethrin and imidacloprid as revealed by topical assay?
Authors: Lilly David G , Dang Kai , Webb Cameron E , Doggett Stephen L
Published: January 2017

Resistance profiling on Cimex lectularius and Cimex hemipterus in Australia has previously revealed the existence of resistance to pyrethroid insecticides and that multiple resistant mechanisms exist in field populations. To further investigate insecticide resistance in modern field populations of bed bugs, a program to collect and screen field specimens was initiated. Over 50 bed bug strains (a mixture that included both C. lectularius and C. hemipterus) have been collected from across Australian, with 35 subsequently colonised (31 C. lectularius and 4 C. hemipterus) for laboratory‐based insecticide resistance testing. Bed bugs were exposed topically to pyrethroids at a discriminating dose of 2.5 g/L deltamethrin in acetone applied at a rate of 1 μL/bug and, for neonicotinoids, a dose of 0.1 g/L of imidacloprid applied at a rate of 1 μL/bug. Mortality was recorded 24 h post application. Twenty adult bed bugs of mixed sex and age in two replicates of 10 were used for the bioassays, plus controls. Results indicated a broad spread in the frequency of resistance against deltamethrin in C. lectularius, represented by a range of mortality values between 15 and 100%. Mortality was predominantly uniform with C. lectularius against imidacloprid at ≥95%, except for several recently collected strains that returned between 70 and 85%, indicating that a degree of tolerance may be developing in select strains. Three of four C. hemipterus strains returned mortality values at or below 10%, with the remainder recording 75% mortality, thereby indicating pyrethroid resistance is similarly advanced in this species. Normal susceptibility (≥95% mortality) was otherwise evident in all four C. hemipterus strains to imidacloprid. These findings complement concurrent research, which indicates that variable patterns of resistance are present across the country and around the world. The results have profound implications for product manufacturers and registration authorities in ensuring that a product is as effective at controlling bed bugs in the field as the laboratory.
Hepatitis B virus infection status and infertility causes in couples seeking fertility treatment—Indicator of impaired immune response?
Authors: Lao Terence T. , Mak Jennifer S. M. , Li Tin‐Chiu
Published: January 2017

Problem

The relationship between hepatitis B (HBV) infection in infertile couples seeking in vitro fertilization (IVF) treatment and infertility causes is unknown.

Methods of study

A total of 831 infertile couples attending our unit seeking IVF during January to December 2015 were recruited.

Results

HBV infection was found in 6.3% and 7.3% of female and male partners, respectively, and infection in one or both partners was associated with less primary infertility (44.2% vs 55.1%, P=.038). Infected female partners had increased tubal (69.2% vs 43.2%, P<.001) and uterine (13.7% vs 3.1%, P<.001) causes and reduced idiopathic infertility, while infected male partners were associated with increased tubal (62.3% vs 43.4%, P=.004) causes and reduced endometriosis (62.3% vs 73.9%, P=.050).

Conclusion

Our results suggest HBV infection in either partner was associated with tubal infertility. HBV infection in either partner probably increases the risk of pelvic infection in female partner through impaired immune response to sexually transmitted infections, with consequent tubal damage and infertility.
Allergen exposure chambers: harmonizing current concepts and projecting the needs for the future – an EAACI Position Paper
Authors: Pfaar O. , Calderon M. A. , Andrews C. P. , Angjeli E. , Bergmann K. C. , Bønløkke J. H. , de Blay F. , Devillier P. , Ellis A. K. , Gerth van Wijk R. , Hohlfeld J. M. , Horak F. , Jacobs R. L. , Jacobsen L. , Jutel M. , Kaul S. , Larché M. , Larenas‐Linnemann D. , Mösges R. , Nolte H. , Patel P. , Peoples L. , Rabin R. L. , Rather C. , Salapatek A. M. , Sigsgaard T. , Thaarup S. , Yang J. , Zieglmayer P. , Zuberbier T. , Demoly P.
Published: January 2017

Background

Allergen exposure chambers (AECs) are clinical facilities allowing for controlled exposure of subjects to allergens in an enclosed environment. AECs have contributed towards characterizing the pathophysiology of respiratory allergic diseases and the pharmacological properties of new therapies. In addition, they are complementary to and offer some advantages over traditional multicentre field trials for evaluation of novel therapeutics. To date, AEC studies conducted have been monocentric and have followed protocols unique to each centre. Because there are technical differences among AECs, it may be necessary to define parameters to standardize the AECs so that studies may be extrapolated for driving basic immunological research and for marketing authorization purposes by regulatory authorities.

Methods

For this task force initiative of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), experts from academia and regulatory agencies met with chamber operators to list technical, clinical and regulatory unmet needs as well as the prerequisites for clinical validation.

Results

The latter covered the validation process, standardization of challenges and outcomes, intra‐ and interchamber variability and reproducibility, in addition to comparability with field trials and specifics of paediatric trials and regulatory issues.

Conclusion

This EAACI Position Paper aims to harmonize current concepts in AECs and to project unmet needs with the intent to enhance progress towards use of these facilities in determining safety and efficacy of new therapeutics in the future.
Novel approaches and perspectives in allergen immunotherapy
Authors: Hoffmann H. J. , Valovirta E. , Pfaar O. , Moingeon P. , Schmid J. M. , Skaarup S. H. , Cardell L.‐O. , Simonsen K. , Larché M. , Durham S. R. , Sørensen P.
Published: January 2017

In this review, we report on relevant current topics in allergen immunotherapy (AIT) which were broadly discussed during the first Aarhus Immunotherapy Symposium (Aarhus, Denmark) in December 2015 by leading clinicians, scientists and industry representatives in the field. The aim of this symposium was to highlight AIT‐related aspects of public health, clinical efficacy evaluation, mechanisms, development of new biomarkers and an overview of novel therapeutic approaches. Allergy is a public health issue of high socioeconomic relevance, and development of evidence‐based action plans to address allergy as a public health issue ought to be on national and regional agendas. The underlying mechanisms are in the focus of current research that lays the ground for innovative therapies. Standardization and harmonization of clinical endpoints in AIT trials as well as current knowledge about potential biomarkers have substantiated proof of effectiveness of this disease‐modifying therapeutic option. Novel treatments such as peptide immunotherapy, intralymphatic immunotherapy and use of recombinant allergens herald a new age in which AIT may address treatment of allergy as a public health issue by reaching a large fraction of patients.
Programmed cell death‐1 expression correlates with disease severity and IL‐5 in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps
Authors: Kortekaas Krohn I. , Bobic S. , Dooley J. , Lan F. , Zhang N. , Bachert C. , Steelant B. , Bullens D. M. , Liston A. , Ceuppens J. L. , Seys S. F. , Hellings P. W.
Published: January 2017

Background

Programmed cell death‐1 (PD‐1) is a negative regulator of T‐cell responses. Expression of PD‐1 and its ligands PD‐L1 and PD‐L2 in chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP) is poorly studied.

Methods

Expression of PD‐1, PD‐L1, PD‐L2, TGF‐β, IL‐5, and IL‐10 mRNA was measured by real‐time quantitative PCR on tissue homogenates of patients with CRSwNP (n = 21) and healthy controls (n = 21) and on primary epithelial cells. Disease severity was scored using the Lund–Mackay scores of maxillofacial computed tomography (CT) scans. Expression of PD‐1 and PD‐L1/L2 was evaluated at the cellular and tissue levels (n = 6) by flow cytometry and immunohistochemistry.

Results

Programmed cell death‐1 mRNA expression was increased in tissue homogenates from patients with CRSwNP compared with controls, irrespective of the atopy status. Importantly, expression of PD‐1 correlated with the total CT scan scores (r = 0.5, P = 0.02). Additionally, a significant association was found between PD‐1 mRNA and expression of IL‐5 mRNA in control nasal tissue (r = 0.95, P < 0.0001) and in CRSwNP (r = 0.63, P = 0.002). PD‐1 was expressed on different subsets of T cells and CD11b− dendritic cells. Both PD‐1 and its ligands were expressed on primary epithelial cells from control nasal tissue and nasal polyp tissue.

Conclusions

Higher PD‐1 expression was found in CRSwNP than in nasal tissue from controls. This was associated with disease severity and tissue IL‐5 expression but unrelated to the patients' atopy status.
Retracted: Curcumin inhibits the survival and metastasis of prostate cancer cells via the Notch‐1 signaling pathway
Authors: Yang Jingzhe , Wang Chengli , Zhang Zhijie , Chen Xiaojun , Jia Yusen , Wang Bin , Kong Tao
Published: January 2017

Prostate cancer is one of the most common malignancies in men, and it urgently demands precise interventions that target the signaling pathways implicated in its initiation, progression, and metastasis. The Notch‐1 signaling pathway is closely associated with the pathophysiology of prostate cancer. This study investigated the antitumor effects and mechanisms of curcumin, which is a well‐known natural compound from curcuminoids, in prostate cancer cells. Viability, proliferation, and migration were analyzed in two prostate cancer cell lines, DU145 and PC3, after curcumin treatment. Whether the Notch‐1 signaling pathway is involved in the antitumor effects of curcumin was examined. Curcumin inhibited the survival and proliferation of PC3 and DU145 cells in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner and inhibited DU145 migration. Curcumin did not affect the expression of Notch‐1 or its active product NICD, but it did inhibit the expression of MT1‐MMP and MMP2 proteins in DU145 cells. We found that curcumin inhibited the DNA‐binding ability of NICD in DU145 cells. In conclusion, curcumin inhibited the survival and metastasis of prostate cancer cells via the Notch‐1 signaling pathway.
The influence of media, positive perception, and identification on survey‐based measures of corruption
Authors: Park Heungsik , Lee Jimoon
Published: January 2017

This study examines the influence of some suspected sources of bias on perceptions of public sector corruption. These sources include dependence on two types of media as information sources about corruption: traditional and social media, positive perception of public employees, and social identification with public employees. Data were collected through a face‐to‐face survey of the general public in South Korea. The sample comprised 472 respondents evenly dispersed across the country. Through regression analysis, we found that dependence on traditional media—but not social media—significantly increased the perceived level of corruption. However, positive perceptions of and social identification with public employees were negatively associated with it, showing that these factors may skew respondents' perceptions of corruption. The results have implications for practitioners and researchers who design, implement, or evaluate anti‐corruption policies, suggesting the need for caution when making use of survey results.
Synthesis, QSAR studies, and metabolic stability of novel 2‐alkylthio‐4‐chloro‐N‐(5‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐triazin‐3‐yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives as potential anticancer and apoptosis‐inducing agents
Authors: Żołnowska Beata , Sławiński Jarosław , Pogorzelska Aneta , Szafrański Krzysztof , Kawiak Anna , Stasiłojć Grzegorz , Belka Mariusz , Zielińska Joanna , Bączek Tomasz
Published: January 2017

A series of novel 2‐alkylthio‐4‐chloro‐N‐(5‐oxo‐4,5‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐triazin‐3‐yl)benzenesulfonamide derivatives 12–46 have been synthesized by the reaction of aminoguanidines with an appropriate alpha‐oxo‐acids hydrates in glacial acetic acid. All the synthesized compounds were evaluated for their anticancer activity against HeLa, HCT‐116, and MCF‐7 human tumor cell lines. Two compounds 33 and 34 displayed outstanding cytotoxic effect selectively toward HeLa cancer cells (IC50 = 19 μm) and did not exhibit toxicity to the non‐cancerous HaCaT cells. QSAR analysis determined the most important parameters controlling cytotoxic activity of 5‐oxo‐1,2,4‐triazines against HeLa cells. QSAR model showed five significant descriptors: HATS6s (GETAWAY descriptor), RDF125 m (radial distribution function), SpMax7_Bh(p) (Burden descriptor), SM3_G (3D matrix descriptor), and Hy (hydrophilic factor). The apoptotic potential of the most active compounds was thoroughly analyzed through various assays: cells’ morphology, DNA fragmentation, mitochondrial potential disruption, and phosphatidylserine translocation. Selected compounds were tested for metabolic stability in the presence of pooled human liver microsomes and NADPH. Compound 34 was the most resistant for human metabolism (t1/2 = 38.5 min) and can be pointed as a hit compound for further investigations.
Memory and multitasking performance during acute allergic inflammation in seasonal allergic rhinitis
Authors: Trikojat K. , Buske‐Kirschbaum A. , Plessow F. , Schmitt J. , Fischer R.
Published: January 2017

Background

In previous research, patients with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) showed poorer school and work performance during periods of acute allergic inflammation, supporting the idea of an impact of SAR on cognitive functions. However, the specific cognitive domains particularly vulnerable to inflammatory processes are unclear.

Objective

In this study, the influence of SAR on memory and multitasking performance, as two potentially vulnerable cognitive domains essential in everyday life functioning, was investigated in patients with SAR.

Methods

Non‐medicated patients with SAR (n = 41) and healthy non‐allergic controls (n = 42) performed a dual‐task paradigm and a verbal learning and memory test during and out of symptomatic allergy periods (pollen vs. non‐pollen season). Disease‐related factors (e.g. symptom severity, duration of symptoms, duration of disease) and allergy‐related quality of life were evaluated as potential influences of cognitive performance.

Results

During the symptomatic allergy period, patients showed (1) poorer performance in word list‐based learning (P = 0.028) and (2) a general slowing in processing speed (P < 0.001) and a shift in processing strategy (P < 0.001) in multitasking. Yet, typical parameters indicating specific multitasking costs were not affected. A significant negative association was found between learning performance and duration of disease (r = −0.451, P = 0.004), whereas symptom severity (r = 0.326; P = 0.037) and quality of life (r = 0.379; P = 0.015) were positively associated with multitasking strategy.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that SAR has a differentiated and complex impact on cognitive functions, which should be considered in the management of SAR symptoms. They also call attention to the importance of selecting sensitive measures and carefully interpreting cognitive outcomes.
Urinary haptoglobin, alpha-1 anti-chymotrypsin and retinol binding protein identified by proteomics as potential biomarkers for lupus nephritis
Authors: Aggarwal A , Gupta R , Negi V S , Rajasekhar L , Misra R , Singh P , Chaturvedi V , Sinha S
Published: January 2017

The study was aimed at identification by proteomics and validation by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) of potential urinary biomarkers for lupus nephritis. Study subjects comprised 88 systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients and 60 controls (rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes mellitus and healthy individuals). Based on the SLE disease activity index (SLEDAI), patients were classified as active renal (AR), active non-renal (ANR) or inactive disease (ID). Urinary proteins from a group of patients with AR or ID were resolved by two-dimensional gel electrophoresis and identified by matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization–time of flight–mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF-MS/MS). The selected biomarkers were validated by ELISA using samples from all patients and controls. AR patients were followed-up for 12 months after start of therapy. Three urinary proteins, alpha-1 anti-chymotrypsin (ACT), haptoglobin (HAP) and retinol binding protein (RBP), were detected in patients with AR and not ID. Upon validation, ACT levels were higher in AR patients than the other groups (P < 0·001) and showed good correlation with renal SLEDAI (r = 0·577, P < 0·001) as well as SLEDAI (r = 0·461, P < 0·001). Similarly, HAP levels were > 10-fold higher in AR than other groups (P < 0·001) and correlated well with renal SLEDAI (r = 0·594, P < 0·001) and SLEDAI (r = 0·371, P < 0·01). RBP levels were also higher in AR patients than in other groups (P < 0·05), except diabetes, and showed moderate correlation with renal SLEDAI (r = 0·284, P < 0·008) and SLEDAI (r = 0·316, P < 0·003). Upon follow-up with treatment, levels of all three proteins declined at 6 and 12 months (P < 0·01). Multiple logistic regression identified ACT as the best marker to differentiate AR from ANR. Urinary HAP, ACT and RBP are potential biomarkers for lupus nephritis activity.