bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ceramide metabolism analysis in a model of binge drinking reveals both neuroprotective and toxic effects of ethanol
Authors: Bae Mihyun , Bandaru Veera Venkata Ratnam , Patel Neha , Haughey Norman J.
Published: July 2014

Binge drinking is a common form of alcohol abuse that involves repeated rounds of intoxication followed by withdrawal. The episodic effects of binge drinking and withdrawal on brain resident cells are thought to contribute to neural remodeling and neurological damage. However, the molecular mechanisms for these neurodegenerative effects are not understood. Ethanol (EtOH) regulates the metabolism of ceramide, a highly bioactive lipid that is enriched in brain. We used a mouse model of binge drinking to determine the effects of EtOH intoxication and withdrawal on brain ceramide metabolism. Intoxication and acute alcohol withdrawal were each associated with distinct changes in ceramide regulatory genes and metabolic products. EtOH intoxication was accompanied by decreased concentrations of multiple ceramides, coincident with reductions in the expression of enzymes involved in the production of ceramides, and increased expression of ceramide‐degrading enzymes. EtOH withdrawal was associated with specific increases in ceramide C16:0, C18:0, and C20:0 and increased expression of enzymes involved with ceramide production. These data suggest that EtOH intoxication may evoke a ceramide phenotype that is neuroprotective, whereas EtOH withdrawal results in a metabolic shift that increases the production of potentially toxic ceramide species.

image

We used a mouse model of binge drinking – a common form of alcohol abuse – to directly compare the effects of ethanol (EtOH) during intoxication and acute withdrawal on brain ceramide metabolism. Gene and metabolite analysis suggest that intoxication is associated with a protective phenotype, as evidenced by reductions in several ceramides. By contrast, acute withdrawal was associated with a degenerative phenotype that was manifested by the elevations in several ceramide species. These data suggest that neural damage may occur during the acute EtOH withdrawal phase and may involve increased production of neurotoxic ceramide species. The image depicts primary metabolic pathways regulated during EtOH intoxication (green) and those most active during withdrawal (red). SMase, Sphingomyelin phosphodiesterase; SGMS, sphingomyelin synthase; CerS, ceramid synthase; S1P, sphingosine‐1P; sphK, sphingosine kinase.
Pituitary Gonadotrophic Hormone Synthesis, Secretion, Subunit Gene Expression and Cell Structure in Normal and Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone β Knockout, Follicle‐Stimulating Hormone Receptor Knockout, Luteinising Hormone Receptor Knockout, Hypogonadal and Ovariectomised Female Mice
Authors: Abel M. H. , Widen A. , Wang X. , Huhtaniemi I. , Pakarinen P. , Kumar T. R. , Christian H. C.
Published: July 2014

To investigate the relationship between gonadotroph function and ultrastructure, we have compared, in parallel in female mice, the effects of several different mutations that perturb the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐gonadal axis. Specifically, serum and pituitary gonadotrophin concentrations, gonadotrophin gene expression, gonadotroph structure and number were measured. Follicle‐stimulating hormone β knockout (FSHβKO), follicle‐stimulating hormone receptor knockout (FSHRKO), luteinising hormone receptor knockout (LuRKO), hypogonadal (hpg) and ovariectomised mice were compared with control wild‐type or heterozygote female mice. Serum levels of LH were elevated in FSHβKO and FSHRKO compared to heterozygote females, reflecting the likely decreased oestrogen production in KO females, as demonstrated by the threadlike uteri and acyclicity. As expected, there was no detectable FSH in the serum or pituitary and an absence of expression of the FSHβ subunit gene in FSHβKO mice. However, there was a significant increase in expression of the FSHβ and LHβ subunit genes in FSHRKO female mice. The morphology of FSHβKO and FSHRKO gonadotrophs was not significantly different from the control, except that secretory granules in FSHRKO gonadotrophs were larger in diameter. In LuRKO and ovariectomised mice, stimulation of LHβ and FSHβ mRNA, as well as serum protein concentrations, were reflected in subcellular changes in gonadotroph morphology, including more dilated rough endoplasmic reticula and fewer, larger secretory granules. In the gonadotophin‐releasing hormone deficient hpg mouse, gonadotrophin mRNA and protein levels were significantly lower than in control mice and gonadotrophs were correspondingly smaller with less abundant endoplasmic reticula and reduced numbers of secretory granules. In summary, major differences in pituitary content and serum concentrations of the gonadotrophins LH and FSH were found between control and mutant female mice. These changes were associated with changes in expression of the gonadotrophin subunit genes and were reflected in the cellular structure and secretory granule appearance within the gonadotroph cells.
Effects of Adverse Early‐Life Events on Aggression and Anti‐Social Behaviours in Animals and Humans
Authors: Haller J. , Harold G. , Sandi C. , Neumann I. D.
Published: July 2014

We review the impact of early adversities on the development of violence and antisocial behaviour in humans, and present three aetiological animal models of escalated rodent aggression, each disentangling the consequences of one particular adverse early‐life factor. A review of the human data, as well as those obtained with the animal models of repeated maternal separation, post‐weaning social isolation and peripubertal stress, clearly shows that adverse developmental conditions strongly affect aggressive behaviour displayed in adulthood, the emotional responses to social challenges and the neuronal mechanisms activated by conflict. Although similarities between models are evident, important differences were also noted, demonstrating that the behavioural, emotional and neuronal consequences of early adversities are to a large extent dependent on aetiological factors. These findings support recent theories on human aggression, which suggest that particular developmental trajectories lead to specific forms of aggressive behaviour and brain dysfunctions. However, dissecting the roles of particular aetiological factors in humans is difficult because these occur in various combinations; in addition, the neuroscientific tools employed in humans still lack the depth of analysis of those used in animal research. We suggest that the analytical approach of the rodent models presented here may be successfully used to complement human findings and to develop integrative models of the complex relationship between early adversity, brain development and aggressive behaviour.
Is Oxytocin a Maternal–Foetal Signalling Molecule at Birth? Implications for Development
Authors: Kenkel W. M. , Yee J. R. , Carter C. S.
Published: July 2014

The neuropeptide oxytocin was first noted for its capacity to promote uterine contractions and facilitate delivery in mammals. The study of oxytocin has grown to include awareness that this peptide is a neuromodulator with broad effects throughout the body. Accumulating evidence suggests that oxytocin is a powerful signal to the foetus, helping to prepare the offspring for the extrauterine environment. Concurrently, the use of exogenous oxytocin or other drugs to manipulate labour has become common practice. The use of oxytocin to expedite labour and minimise blood loss improves both infant and maternal survival under some conditions. However, further investigations are needed to assess the developmental consequences of changes in oxytocin, such as those associated with pre‐eclampsia or obstetric manipulations associated with birth. This review focuses on the role of endogenous and exogenous oxytocin as a neurochemical signal to the foetal nervous system. We also examine the possible developmental consequences, including those associated with autism spectrum disorder, that arise from exogenous oxytocin supplementation during labour.
A private affair: children's experiences prior to colonoscopy
Authors: Vejzovic Vedrana , Wennick Anne , Idvall Ewa , Bramhagen Ann‐Cathrine
Published: July 2014

Aims and objectives

To illuminate children's experiences prior to colonoscopy.

Background

It is well known that children need to be well prepared before undergoing stressful medical procedures, and the goal of such preparations should focus on minimising their level of anxiety. The clinical investigation of children with suspected inflammatory bowel disease involves several steps, with colonoscopy being routinely used to investigate the colon and the lower part of the small intestine. To minimise children's anxiety during various medical procedures, it is important that information about their experiences is obtained directly from the children themselves.

Design

A qualitative study.

Method

The study was designed as a qualitative interview study involving 17 children aged 10–17 years undergoing colonoscopy at a children's university hospital in Sweden. Verbatim transcripts were analysed using content analysis.

Results

The children's experiences prior to colonoscopy were identified as belonging to an overall theme, aprivate affair,and to four categories:preparing yourself, mastering the situation, reluctantly participatingandfeeling emotional support.

Conclusion

This study shows that children's experiences prior to colonoscopy are a private affair and that the preparation needs to be individually adapted for the ‘preprocedural’ preparation to be comprehended.

Relevance to clinical practice

The children's experiences ascertained in this study can contribute to a greater understanding of children's needs prior to a colonoscopy and may provide professional care staff with the basis for future nursing assessments.
The Impact of Diabetes Mellitus on Long‐Term Clinical Outcomes After Percutaneous Coronary Saphenous Vein Graft Interventions in the Drug‐Eluting Stent Era
Authors: PENDYALA LAKSHMANA K. , LOH JOSHUA P. , KITABATA HIRONORI , MINHA SA'AR , TORGUSON REBECCA , CHEN FANG , SATLER LOWELL F. , SUDDATH WILLIAM O. , PICHARD AUGUSTO D. , WAKSMAN RON
Published: July 2014

Objectives

We aimed to compare early and late clinical outcomes in diabetic and nondiabetic patients who underwent saphenous vein graft (SVG) percutaneous coronary interventions (PCI) with the use of drug‐eluting stents (DES).

Background

Patients with diabetes mellitus are shown to have less favorable outcomes after SVG intervention with the use of bare metal stents. In the DES era, the impact of diabetes mellitus on restenosis and clinical outcomes post‐SVG intervention is not clearly defined.

Methods

From our institutional PCI registry database, we retrospectively analyzed 477 consecutive patients with prior coronary artery bypass graft surgery undergoing SVG PCI with the implantation of DES stratified by the presence or absence of diabetes mellitus. The primary end‐point was 1‐year major adverse cardiac event (MACE) rate, defined as death, Q wave myocardial infarction, and target lesion revascularization.

Results

Baseline clinical characteristics, including mean graft age (120 ± 77 vs. 131 ± 86 months, P = 0.14), were similar between groups, save for a higher prevalence of systemic hypertension and chronic renal insufficiency, and higher body mass index in the diabetic group. Among the 604 SVG lesions treated with DES, the angiographic and procedural characteristics were well matched between groups except for the higher rate of distal protection device use (32% vs. 29%, P = 0.007) in the diabetic group. The rates of 1‐year MACE (21% vs. 15%, P = 0.12) and all‐cause mortality (7.6% vs. 6.7%, P = 0.86) were similar between groups. After adjustment for the relevant clinical co‐variables, diabetic status was not associated with the composite end‐point.

Conclusion

In conclusion, DES, when used for the treatment of vein graft lesions, equate the short‐ and long‐term outcomes between diabetic and nondiabetic patients, suggesting that DES should be considered the default stent in diabetic populations undergoing PCI for the treatment of SVG lesions. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:391–398)
Leaving No Hole Unclosed: Left Atrial Appendage Occlusion in Patients Having Closure of Patent Foramen Ovale or Atrial Septal Defect
Authors: GAFOOR SAMEER , FRANKE JENNIFER , BOEHM PATRICK , LAM SIMON , BERTOG STEFAN , VASKELYTE LAURA , HOFMANN ILONA , SIEVERT HORST
Published: July 2014

Objectives

To report procedural outcome of sequential occlusion of the left atrial appendage (LAA) and an interatrial septal communication and discuss possible indications.

Background

There are some patients who may have indications for both closure of patent foramen ovale (PFO) or atrial septal defect (ASD), as well as closure of the LAA. The optimal procedural strategy is not known.

Methods

A retrospective review of LAA and PFO/ASD cases at our center was performed. Demographic, echocardiographic, and procedural data were recorded.

Results

Closure of LAA and then PFO/ASD (Group I: 11 patients), closure of both in the same setting (Group II: 3 patients), and closure of the PFO/ASD and then the LAA (Group III: 3 patients) was performed in a total of 17 patients. Average age was 63.5 ± 9.8 years. Most patients were hypertensive with prior cerebrovascular event in 52.9% of patients. Procedural success was 100%. Procedural adverse events were 2 episodes of tamponade (in Group I after first LAA procedure) treated with pericardiocentesis and 1 access‐site hematoma (Group II) treated conservatively.

Conclusions

Sequential (staged or during the same procedure) closure of the LAA and interatrial communications can be performed safely in a carefully selected patient population. This is also the first known report of LAA occlusion in patients with prior septal closure devices. (J Interven Cardiol 2014;27:414–422)
The interactive effect of team and manager absence on employee absence: A multilevel field study
Authors: Duff Angus J. , Podolsky Mark , Biron Michal , Chan Christopher C. A.
Published: July 2014

Although it is commonly assumed that manager and team absence levels have a significant impact on an individuals’ absence level, research has yet to simultaneously test the effect of these sources, as well their interactive effect on employee absence behaviour. Using archival attendance records for 955 employees, grouped in 79 teams, and the absence records of their respective managers from a large professional services organization, this study considers absence behaviour through the lens and social learning theory and social information processing theory to suggest that absence norms are socially constructed based on social influences of the absence pattern of one's team and manager. Through the use of hierarchical linear modelling to account for group‐level influences on absence behaviour, findings suggest that team‐level absence exerts a greater influence on employee absence than manager absence and that manager absence exerts a moderating influence on this relationship. Implications for attendance management as well as future research are considered.

Practitioner points

Team absence behaviour exerts a group‐level influence on employee absence behaviour.

Manager absence moderates the team absence effect.
Crossmodal Expectations of Tea Color Based on Flavor: A Preliminary Study with Naïve Assessors
Authors: Wan Xiaoang , Zhou Xi , Mu Bingbing , Du Dikang , Velasco Carlos , Michel Charles , Spence Charles
Published: July 2014

Tea is one of the world's most widely and frequently consumed beverages. What is more, tea is a drink that, unlike many others, is purported to have a number of health benefits as well. However, to date, there has been surprisingly little published research concerning the crossmodal associations that people have with tea beverages, specifically regarding tea's distinctive hue. In two experiments, we assessed the beverage colors that Chinese tea drinkers associate with different types of tea tasted while blindfolded. The results revealed that the color names that came to our naïve assessors' minds typically did not match the color names by which the tea is defined (e.g., red or green), or the actual color of the tea that they had just tasted. As such, the tea drinkers' expectations very often were different from the actual color of the beverage that they happened to taste.

Practical Applications

Tea is often defined by a color name, and the extent to which that name matches the tea drinker's experience is investigated in the present study. Our results provide evidence concerning the crossmodal flavor–color correspondences that may exist for tea. These findings will be of interest to those sensory scientists who are interested in the flavor–color associations of beverages. Considering the global popularity, the purported health benefits and the emergence of high‐end tea markets, the findings of the present study are intriguing enough to call for further research on the multisensory marketing of tea in order to align tea drinkers' expectations with their experiences. These findings also have implications for the international marketing of tea, especially for those who are interested in breaking into the Chinese tea market and potentially for those who are interested in promoting Chinese tea in new markets.
Let There be Light! An Initial Exploratory Study of Whether Lighting Influences Consumer Evaluations of Packaged Food Products
Authors: Otterbring Tobias , Löfgren Martin , Lestelius Magnus
Published: July 2014

This study investigates how lighting influences consumer evaluations of packaged food products. Fifty‐eight participants evaluated two identical packaged meals (alternated between subjects) in a laboratory setting. The products were stored in a freezer with cold light (blue light‐emitting diode [LED]) on one side and warm light (yellow LED) on the other side. A three‐way mixed multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) revealed that, independent of package color and gender, food products were evaluated more negatively in the cold light than in the warm light in terms of quality, attractiveness and inferred taste. Therefore, lighting may influence consumers' overall evaluations of packaged meals. This finding also highlights the managerial problem whereby the lighting standards that exist at print agencies in order to eliminate ambiguities when making decisions about package design are rare for in‐store lighting. Consequently, products that look attractive at the print agency may look unappealing in a store. The results are discussed in terms of processing fluency and cross‐modal correspondences.

Practical Applications

The results of this study are fruitful for sensory scientists interested in how cold versus warm lighting influences the perceived taste, attractiveness and quality of packaged food products. The findings also shed light on the managerial problem caused by packaged products potentially being evaluated in different lights at print agencies (when choosing package colors and design) and in the store. These findings should be relevant for retailers, print agencies and brand owners of packaged products. Given that the lighting in most retail stores is cold, and the present study indicates that cold light has negative effects on overall packaging evaluations, these findings warrant further consideration.
Macrofauna along the Sudanese Red Sea coast: potential effect of mangrove clearance on community and trophic structure
Authors: Sabeel Rasha A. O. , Ingels Jeroen , Pape Ellen , Vanreusel Ann
Published: July 2014

Mangroves along the Sudanese Red Sea coast are under constant anthropogenic pressure. To better understand the influence of mangrove clearance on the intertidal benthic community, we investigated the composition, biodiversity and standing stock of the macrofauna communities at high‐, mid‐ and low‐water levels in three contrasting habitats: a bare sand flat, a cleared mangrove and an intact mangrove. In addition, a community‐wide metric approach based on taxon‐specific carbon and nitrogen isotope values was used to compare the trophic structure between the three habitats. The habitats differed significantly in terms of macrofaunal standing stock, community composition and trophic structure. The high‐ and mid‐water levels of the intact mangroves showed a distinct macrofaunal community characterized by elevated densities and biomass, largely governed by higher decapod and gastropod abundances. Diversity was similar for cleared and intact mangroves, but much lower for the bare sand flat. Community‐wide metrics indicated highest trophic diversity and community niche breadth in the intact mangroves. Differences between the cleared and intact mangroves can be partly attributed to differences in sediment characteristics resulting from mangrove clearance. These results suggest a significant impact of mangrove clearance on the macrofaunal community and trophic structure. This study calls for further investigations and management actions to protect and restore these habitats, and ensure the survival of this ecologically valuable coastal ecosystem.
Antenatal micronutrient supplementation and third trimester cortisol and erythropoietin concentrations
Authors: Christian Parul , Nanayakkara‐Bind Ashika , Schulze Kerry , Wu Lee , LeClerq Steven C. , Khatry Subarna K.
Published: July 2014

Antenatal iron and multiple micronutrient supplementation has been shown in randomized trials to improve birthweight, although mechanisms are unknown. We examined late pregnancy serum erythropoietin (EPO) and cortisol concentrations in relation to maternal micronutrient supplementation and iron status indicators (haemoglobin, serum ferritin, soluble transferrin receptor) in 737 rural Nepalese women to explore evidence of stress or anaemia‐associated hypoxia. A double‐masked randomized control trial was conducted from December 1998 to April 2001 in Sarlahi, Nepal, in which women received vitamin A alone (as control), or with folic acid (FA), FA + iron, FA + iron + zinc and a multiple micronutrient supplement. In a substudy, we collected maternal blood in the first and third trimester for biochemical assessments. Generalized estimating equations linear regression analysis was used to examine treatment group differences. EPO was ∼14–17 mIU mL−1 lower (P < 0.0001) in late pregnancy in groups receiving iron vs. the control group, with no difference in the FA‐only group. Cortisol was 1.3 μg dL−1 lower (P = 0.04) only in the micronutrient supplement group compared with the control group. EPO was most strongly associated with iron status indicators in groups that did not receive iron, and in the non‐iron groups cortisol was positively correlated with EPO (r = 0.15, P < 0.01) and soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR, r = 0.19, P < 0.001). In adjusted analyses, third trimester EPO was associated with a reduction in low birthweight, whereas cortisol was negatively associated with length of gestation and higher risk of preterm birth. Iron and multiple micronutrient supplementation may enhance birth outcomes by reducing mediators of maternal stress and impaired erythropoiesis.
Oxidative Stress increases Pulmonary Vascular Permeability in Diabetic Rats through Activation of Transient Receptor Potential Melastatin 2 Channels
Authors: Lu Silu , Xiang Lusha , Clemmer John S. , Mittwede Peter N. , Hester Robert L.
Published: July 2014

Objective

In vitro superoxide activates pulmonary endothelial TRPM2 channels and increases Kf. We hypothesized that pulmonary capillary Kf is increased in a model of type I diabetes due to elevated vascular superoxide and resultant TRPM2 channel activation.

Methods

Type I diabetes was induced in Zucker rats using STZ. Half of the STZ animals were treated with apocynin, a NOX inhibitor. After four weeks, lung Kf was measured in the isolated lung in the presence or absence of TRPM2 inhibitors (2‐APB and FA). In an additional set of experiments, Kf was measured in nondiabetic Zucker rats after applying the superoxide donor (PMS).

Results

As compared to control rats, hyperglycemic rats exhibited increased vascular superoxide and Kf, along with decreased lung vascular TRPM2‐L expression. Apocynin treatment reduced superoxide and Kf in hyperglycemic rats with no effect in control rats. TRPM2 channel inhibition decreased Kf in hyperglycemic rats with no effect in control rats. PMS increased the lung Kf in control rats, with TRPM2 inhibition attenuating this response.

Conclusion

Diabetic rats exhibit a TRPM2‐mediated increase in lung Kf, which is associated with increased TRPM2 activation and increased vascular superoxide levels.
A transcription factor links growth rate and metabolism in the hypersaline adapted archaeon Halobacterium salinarum
Authors: Todor Horia , Dulmage Keely , Gillum Nicholas , Bain James R. , Muehlbauer Michael J. , Schmid Amy K.
Published: July 2014

Co‐ordinating metabolism and growth is a key challenge for all organisms. Despite fluctuating environments, cells must produce the same metabolic outputs to thrive. The mechanisms underlying this ‘growth homeostasis’ are known in bacteria and eukaryotes, but remain unexplored in archaea. In the model archaeon Halobacterium salinarum, the transcription factor TrmB regulates enzyme‐coding genes in diverse metabolic pathways in response to glucose. However, H. salinarum is thought not to catabolize glucose. To resolve this discrepancy, we demonstrate that TrmB regulates the gluconeogenic production of sugars incorporated into the cell surface S‐layer glycoprotein. Additionally, we show that TrmB–DNA binding correlates with instantaneous growth rate, likely because S‐layer glycosylation is proportional to growth. This suggests that TrmB transduces a growth rate signal to co‐regulated metabolic pathways including amino acid, purine, and cobalamin biosynthesis. Remarkably, the topology and function of this growth homeostatic network appear conserved across domains despite extensive alterations in protein components.
Signalling‐dependent interactions between the kinase‐coupling protein CheW and chemoreceptors in living cells
Authors: Pedetta Andrea , Parkinson John S. , Studdert Claudia A.
Published: July 2014

Chemical signals sensed on the periplasmic side of bacterial cells by transmembrane chemoreceptors are transmitted to the flagellar motors via the histidine kinase CheA, which controls the phosphorylation level of the effector protein CheY. Chemoreceptor arrays comprise remarkably stable supramolecular structures in which thousands of chemoreceptors are networked through interactions between their cytoplasmic tips, CheA, and the small coupling protein CheW. To explore the conformational changes that occur within this protein assembly during signalling, we used in vivo cross‐linking methods to detect close interactions between the coupling protein CheW and the serine receptor Tsr in intact Escherichia coli cells. We identified two signal‐sensitive contacts between CheW and the cytoplasmic tip of Tsr. Our results suggest that ligand binding triggers changes in the receptor that alter its signalling contacts with CheW (and/or CheA).
Taking the sting out of darting: Risks, restraint drugs and procedures for the chemical restraint of Southern Hemisphere otariids
Authors: Baylis Alastair M. M. , Page Brad , Staniland Iain , Arnould John P. Y. , McKenzie Jane
Published: July 2014

The need to manage otariid populations has necessitated the development of a wide range of capture methods. Chemical restraint by remote drug delivery (i.e., darting) is a highly selective method that can be used to facilitate otariid capture in a range of scenarios, when other methods may be impracticable. However, the risks associated with darting otariids are not widely known and guidelines necessary to promote and refine best practice do not exist. We review the risks associated with darting and in light of our findings, develop darting guidelines to help practitioners assess and minimize risks during capture, anesthesia and recovery. Published studies reveal that mortalities associated with darting predominantly result from complications during anesthetic maintenance (e.g., prolonged respiratory depression, apnea, or hyperthermia), rather than from complications during capture or recovery. In addition to monitoring vital signs and proper intervention, the risk of irreversible complications during anesthesia can be reduced by administering drug doses that are sufficient to enable the capture and masking of animals, after which anesthetic depth can be regulated using gas anesthesia.
Effects of wildfire on sea otter (Enhydra lutris) gene transcript profiles
Authors: Bowen Lizabeth , Miles A. Keith , Kolden Crystal A. , Saarinen Justin A. , Bodkin James L. , Murray Michael J. , Tinker M. Tim
Published: July 2014

Wildfires have been shown to impact terrestrial species over a range of temporal scales. Little is known, however, about the more subtle toxicological effects of wildfires, particularly in downstream marine or downwind locations from the wildfire perimeter. These down‐current effects may be just as substantial as those effects within the perimeter. We used gene transcription technology, a sensitive indicator of immunological perturbation, to study the effects of the 2008 Basin Complex Fire on the California coast on a sentinel marine species, the sea otter (Enhydra lutris). We captured sea otters in 2008 (3 mo after the Basin Complex Fire was controlled) and 2009 (15 mo after the Basin Complex Fire was controlled) in the adjacent nearshore environment near Big Sur, California. Gene responses were distinctly different between Big Sur temporal groups, signifying detoxification of PAHs, possible associated response to potential malignant transformation, and suppression of immune function as the primary responses of sea otters to fire in 2008 compared to those captured in 2009. In general, gene transcription patterns in the 2008 sea otters were indicative of molecular reactions to organic exposure, malignant transformation, and decreased ability to respond to pathogens that seemed to consistent with short‐term hydrocarbon exposure.
Between Springs: The Berber Dilemma
Authors: Fromherz Allen
Published: July 2014

Although many in North Africa and the Middle East are dissatisfied with it, the phrase “Arab” Spring, used label to describe extraordinary popular uprisings of the past few years, seems to have staying power. What the name implies is an ethnically “Arab” uprising. The Middle East and North Africa, however, are far from ethnic monoliths. A substantial ethnic and linguistic minority, the Berbers, who form large portions of the populations of Algeria, Libya and Morocco, are left to wrestle between current, authoritarian regimes that have only recently recognized their identity, and the prospect of Islamist governance that threatens to reintroduce Arabization, Islamic nationalism and the reversal of hard‐won gains. In this respect, the memory and continued relevance of the “Berber” Spring of 1980 seems to sit somewhat uneasily with the continuing consequences of the “Arab” Spring of 2011. In the end, however, it is relations with the nation‐state that continue to dominate even in a post‐Arab Spring world. Berbers in each of the nation states in North Africa have used very different strategies in their efforts to enhance recognition of their language and identity in light of recent events.
Muslims Renegotiating Marginality in Contemporary Ethiopia
Authors: Feyissa Dereje , Lawrence Bruce B.
Published: July 2014

Ethiopian Muslims have only had access to public space and opportunity for religious self‐definition and collective influence since 1991. During little more than two decades, how have they advanced subjective agency within the political constraints of the current government, the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front or EPRDF? This article addresses that question by backgrounding the history of Islamic expansion into Ethiopia, tracing Muslim engagement with Christian political elites over several hundred years, till the latter part of the 21st century. After the deposition of Haile Selasse in 1974, the DERG assumed power and in the name of a socialist agenda, suppressed all religions from 1975–1991. DERG socialism has been replaced by EPRDF pluralism, yet the structural constraints of the latter have weakened the efforts of Ethiopian Muslims to find their rightful place in the public square. Abetted and assisted by overseas immigrant communities, in both Western Europe and North America, Ethiopian Muslims continue to contest securitization and marginalization by the state, even as they struggle with regional, national and transnational issues that impact all Muslim identity politics in the second decade of the 21st century.
Reprogramming of plant cells by filamentous plant‐colonizing microbes
Authors: Doehlemann Gunther , Requena Natalia , Schaefer Patrick , Brunner Frederic , O'Connell Richard , Parker Jane E.
Published: July 2014

Although phylogenetically unrelated, filamentous oomycetes and fungi establish similar structures to colonize plants and they represent economically the most important microbial threat to crop production. In mutualistic interactions established by root‐colonizing fungi, clear differences to pathogens can be seen, but there is mounting evidence that their infection strategies and molecular interactions have certain common features. To infect the host, fungi and oomycetes employ similar strategies to circumvent plant innate immunity. This process involves the suppression of basal defence responses which are triggered by the perception of conserved molecular patterns. To establish biotrophy, effector proteins are secreted from mutualistic and pathogenic microbes to the host tissue, where they play central roles in the modulation of host immunity and metabolic reprogramming of colonized host tissues. This review article discusses key effector mechanisms of filamentous pathogens and mutualists, how they modulate their host targets and the fundamental differences or parallels between these different interactions. The orchestration of effector actions during plant infection and the importance of their localization within host tissues are also discussed.
Evidence for biological denitrification inhibition (BDI) by plant secondary metabolites
Authors: Bardon Clément , Piola Florence , Bellvert Floriant , Haichar Feth el Zahar , Comte Gilles , Meiffren Guillaume , Pommier Thomas , Puijalon Sara , Tsafack Noelline , Poly Franck
Published: July 2014

Previous studies on the effect of secondary metabolites on the functioning of rhizosphere microbial communities have often focused on aspects of the nitrogen (N) cycle but have overlooked biological denitrification inhibition (BDI), which can affect plant N‐nutrition. Here, we investigated the BDI by the compounds of Fallopia spp., an invasive weed shown to be associated with a low potential denitrification of the soil.

Fallopia spp. extracts were characterized by chromatographic analysis and were used to test the BDI effects on the metabolic and respiratory activities of denitrifying bacteria, under aerobic and anaerobic (denitrification) conditions. The BDI of Fallopia spp. extracts was tested on a complex soil community by measuring denitrification enzyme activity (DEA), substrate induced respiration (SIR), as well as abundances of denitrifiers and total bacteria.

In 15 strains of denitrifying bacteria, extracts led to a greater BDI (92%) than respiration inhibition (50%). Anaerobic metabolic activity reduction was correlated with catechin concentrations and the BDI was dose dependent. In soil, extracts reduced the DEA/SIR ratio without affecting the denitrifiers: total bacteria ratio.

We show that secondary metabolite(s) from Fallopia spp. inhibit denitrification. This provides new insight into plant–soil interactions and improves our understanding of a plant's ability to shape microbial soil functioning.
Hitchhiker's guide to multi‐dimensional plant pathology
Authors: Saunders Diane G. O.
Published: July 2014

Filamentous pathogens pose a substantial threat to global food security. One central question in plant pathology is how pathogens cause infection and manage to evade or suppress plant immunity to promote disease. With many technological advances over the past decade, including DNA sequencing technology, an array of new tools has become embedded within the toolbox of next‐generation plant pathologists. By employing a multidisciplinary approach plant pathologists can fully leverage these technical advances to answer key questions in plant pathology, aimed at achieving global food security. This review discusses the impact of: cell biology and genetics on progressing our understanding of infection structure formation on the leaf surface; biochemical and molecular analysis to study how pathogens subdue plant immunity and manipulate plant processes through effectors; genomics and DNA sequencing technologies on all areas of plant pathology; and new forms of collaboration on accelerating exploitation of big data. As we embark on the next phase in plant pathology, the integration of systems biology promises to provide a holistic perspective of plant–pathogen interactions from big data and only once we fully appreciate these complexities can we design truly sustainable solutions to preserve our resources.
Reversing death: the miracle of modern medicine
Authors: Paulson Steve , Becker Lance B. , Parnia Sam , Mayer Stephan A.
Published: July 2014

Breakthroughs in emergency medicine have enabled science to halt and even reverse death. However, these advances have inadvertently led science into a domain that has traditionally been the purview of theology and philosophy. Steve Paulson, executive producer and host of To the Best of Our Knowledge, moderated a discussion that included emergency medicine experts Lance B. Becker and Sam Parnia, and neurosurgeon Stephan A. Mayer; they discussed recent discoveries and emerging technologies in resuscitation science and the ethical dilemmas they sometimes confront during medical crises. The following is an edited transcript of the discussion from October 9, 2013, 7:00–8:30 PM, at the New York Academy of Sciences in New York City.
A Medicago truncatula rdr6 allele impairs transgene silencing and endogenous phased siRNA production but not development
Authors: Bustos‐Sanmamed Pilar , Hudik Elodie , Laffont Carole , Reynes Christelle , Sallet Erika , Wen Jiangqi , Mysore Kirankumar S. , Camproux Anne‐Claude , Hartmann Caroline , Gouzy Jérome , Frugier Florian , Crespi Martin , Lelandais‐Brière Christine
Published: July 2014

RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase 6 (RDR6) and suppressor of gene silencing 3 (SGS3) act together in post‐transcriptional transgene silencing mediated by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) and in biogenesis of various endogenous siRNAs including the tasiARFs, known regulators of auxin responses and plant development. Legumes, the third major crop family worldwide, has been widely improved through transgenic approaches. Here, we isolated rdr6 and sgs3 mutants in the model legume Medicago truncatula. Two sgs3 and one rdr6 alleles led to strong developmental defects and impaired biogenesis of tasiARFs. In contrast, the rdr6.1 homozygous plants produced sufficient amounts of tasiARFs to ensure proper development. High throughput sequencing of small RNAs from this specific mutant identified 354 potential MtRDR6 substrates, for which siRNA production was significantly reduced in the mutant. Among them, we found a large variety of novel phased loci corresponding to protein‐encoding genes or transposable elements. Interestingly, measurement of GFP expression revealed that post‐transcriptional transgene silencing was reduced in rdr6.1 roots. Hence, this novel mis‐sense mutation, affecting a highly conserved amino acid residue in plant RDR6s, may be an interesting tool both to analyse endogenous pha‐siRNA functions and to improve transgene expression, at least in legume species.
Pre‐flight assessment in patients with obesity hypoventilation syndrome
Authors: Ali Masood , Smith Ian E. , Gulati Atul , Shneerson John M.
Published: July 2014

Background and objective

Reduced atmospheric pressure during air travel can cause significant hypoxaemia in some patients with respiratory disease. Our aims were to investigate the degree of hypoxaemia in patients with obesity hypoventilation syndrome (OHS) during hypoxic challenge test (HCT), and to identify any predictors of a positive HCT.

Methods

Thirteen patients underwent assessment, including HCT, lung function and incremental shuttle walk test. All had OHS well controlled with long‐term nocturnal non‐invasive ventilation (NIV). Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease were excluded. A positive HCT was defined according to the British Thoracic Society (BTS) recommendation as arterial oxygen tension (PaO2) <6.6 kPa and/or oxygen saturation <85%.

Results

Mean age was 57 (± 11) years. Mean body mass index was 51.7 (± 12) kg/m2. Mean baseline PaO2 and arterial carbon dioxide tension (PaCO2) were 10.2 (9.5–11.3) kPa and 5.2 (3.7–6.8) kPa, respectively. Seven patients (54%) had a positive HCT. The correlation between baseline PaO2 and PaO2 at the end of the HCT was not statistically significant (r = 0.433, P = 0.184). A negative correlation was observed between baseline PaCO2 and PaO2 at the end of the HCT (r = −0.793, P = 0.004). A positive correlation was observed between the distance walked and the PaO2 at the end of the HCT (r = 0.608, P = 0.047).

Conclusions

OHS is a risk factor for severe hypoxaemia during air travel even if the ventilatory failure is well controlled. An HCT before air travel is advisable in all OHS patients. Those with positive HCT may use NIV or have oxygen on‐board as per BTS recommendation.
The MMPI‐2 in chronic psychiatric illness
Authors: Bosch Peggy , Van Luijtelaar Gilles , Van Den Noort Maurits , Schenkwald Julia , Kueppenbender Nicole , Lim Sabina , Egger Jos , Coenen Anton
Published: July 2014

While previous studies on the MMPI‐2 in patients with schizophrenia and depression have used mixed samples of both early stage and chronic psychiatric patients. Here, it is investigated whether chronicity itself might have a differential effect on the MMPI‐2 profiles of these patients and whether demoralization ‘associated with long‐term illness’ affects the scales of the MMPI‐2. Thirty long‐term patients with schizophrenia, 30 long‐term patients with depression, and 30 healthy participants completed the MMPI‐2. Groups were compared on Clinical Scales and on the Restructured Clinical (RC) Scales. Patients with schizophrenia differed from patients with depression on 14 MMPI‐2 scales and from healthy controls on 10 scales, generally showing mean UT‐scores < 65, indicating a subjective experience of (near) normal functioning. Patients with depression differed from healthy controls on 17 scales mostly with UT‐scores > 65, indicating impaired functioning. Demoralization was higher in patients with depression than in patients with schizophrenia and both psychiatric groups differed from the healthy control group. It is concluded that long‐term patients with depression show impaired functioning and high demoralization, while long‐term patients with schizophrenia surprisingly show near normal functioning and less demoralization.
The Requirements Entropy Framework in Systems Engineering
Authors: Grenn Michael W. , Sarkani Shahram , Mazzuchi Thomas
Published: July 2014

This paper introduces a requirements entropy framework (REF) for measuring requirements trends and estimating engineering effort during system development. The REF treats the requirements engineering process as an open system in which the total number of requirements R transition from initial states of high requirements entropy HR, disorder and uncertainty toward the desired end state of as R increase in quality. The cumulative requirements quality Q reflects the meaning of the requirements information in the context of the SE problem. The distribution of R among N discrete quality levels is determined by the number of quality attributes accumulated by R at any given time in the process. The number of possibilities P reflects the uncertainty of the requirements information relative to . The HR is measured or estimated using R, N and P by extending principles of information theory and statistical mechanics to the requirements engineering process. The requirements information I increases as HR and uncertainty decrease, and ΔI is the additional information necessary to achieve the desired state from the perspective of the receiver. The HR may increase, decrease or remain steady depending on the degree to which additions, deletions and revisions impact the distribution of R among the quality levels. Current requirements volatility metrics generally treat additions, deletions and revisions the same and simply measure the quantity of these changes over time. The REF measures the quantity of requirements changes over time, distinguishes between their positive and negative effects in terms of , and ΔI, and forecasts when a specified desired state of requirements quality will be reached, enabling more accurate assessment of the status and progress of the engineering effort. Results from random variable simulations suggest the REF is an improved leading indicator of requirements trends that can be readily combined with current methods. The additional engineering effort ΔE needed to transition R from their current state to the desired state can also be estimated. Simulation results are compared with measured engineering effort data for Department of Defense programs, and the results suggest the REF is a promising new method for estimating engineering effort for a wide range of system development programs.
The role of microRNA‐15b in the impaired angiogenesis in diabetic wounds
Authors: Xu Junwang , Zgheib Carlos , Hu Junyi , Wu Wenjie , Zhang Liping , Liechty Kenneth W.
Published: July 2014

The impairment in diabetic wound healing represents a significant clinical problem. Decreased angiogenesis is thought to play a central role in the pathogenesis of this impairment. We have previously shown that treatment of diabetic murine wounds with mesenchymal stem cells can improve healing, but the mechanisms are not completely defined. MicroRNA‐15b (miR‐15b) has been implicated in the regulation of the angiogenic response. We hypothesized that abnormal miR‐15b expression may contribute to the impaired angiogenesis observed in impaired diabetic wound healing. To test this hypothesis, we examined the expression of miR‐15b and its target genes in diabetic and nondiabetic mice before and after injury. MiR‐15b expression was significantly up‐regulated in diabetic mouse wounds during the wound healing response. Increased miR‐15b levels also closely correlated with decreased gene expression of its proangiogenic target genes. Furthermore, the correction of the diabetic wound healing impairment with mesenchymal stem cell treatment was associated with a significant decrease in miR‐15b expression level and increased gene expression of its proangiogenic target genes. These results provide the first evidence that increased expression of miR‐15b in diabetic wounds in response to injury may, in part, be responsible for the abnormal angiogenic response seen in diabetic wounds and may contribute to the observed wound healing impairment.