bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population status and distribution modelling of the critically endangered riverine rabbit (Bunolagus monticularis)
Authors: Collins Kai , du Toit Johan T.
Published: March 2016

The riverine rabbit (Bunolagus monticularis) is one of the most endangered mammals in the world due to fragmentation of its habitat in the semi‐arid Karoo region of South Africa, to which it is endemic. It is an umbrella conservation species for the riparian shrubland associated with the seasonal drainage system of the Karoo, where its presence is an indicator of ecosystem health. In this study, we analysed historical survey data to derive an improved assessment of the current B. monticularis population status and distribution. Geospatial analysis was conducted using geographical information systems, and distribution modelling was performed using Maxent. Extent of occurrence for the species is 54,227 km2, and area of occupancy is 2943 km2. Estimates of 157–207 mature individuals confirm an alarmingly small species population size, and it appears that no subpopulation has >50 mature individuals. Our findings thus support the continued classification of this species as ‘critically endangered’ under IUCN Red List criteria. However, with most remaining habitat occurring outside of protected areas, and with habitat loss being exacerbated by climate change, a viable conservation plan remains elusive.
Interspecific association in ungulates of the Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia
Authors: Asefa Addisu
Published: March 2016

The aim of the study was to determine the frequencies of interspecific association formation and species preferences among five ungulates [bohor reedbuck (Redunca redunca), common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus), grey duiker (Sylvicapra grimmia), Menelik's bushbuck (Tragelaphus scriptus meneliki) and mountain nyala (Tragelaphus buxtoni)] in the northern Bale Mountains National Park, Ethiopia. Data were collected in three forest patches and in open grassland using total count technique in 2009 and 2011. The total number of ungulate groups found in interspecific associations was 444, comprising 26.8% of the total 1657 groups recorded. For the five study species, the relative frequency with which a given species occurred in interspecific association deviated significantly from the expected mean relative frequency (i.e. 26.8%). Each study species showed preferences to form interspecific associations with one or two other species. Interspecific association formation increased mean group sizes for bohor reedbuck and mountain nyala. And most of the species had greater overall mean group sizes in the open habitat compared to forest habitat. In general, the association pattern reported here could be attributed to antipredator response and/or mutual grazing facilitation, which might be beneficial to one or all of the species involved.
Rethinking Common Versus Private Property
Authors: Ellerman David
Published: March 2016

The Commons/Green Movement seems to have accepted that the current system is based on the principles of private property, and then has juxtaposed the notion of common property to private property. In fact, the current system is based on violations of the principle on which private ownership is supposed to rest, namely, the principle of people getting the fruits of their labor. The Commons Movement should critique the current system as an abuse of private property both in how it treats the products of labor as well as how it treats that which is not the fruits of anyone's labor (natural resources). When private property is refounded on its just foundation, then economic enterprises would be democratic firms such as worker cooperatives, and the ground would be cleared to apply special arrangements to natural resources, which are not the products of labor.
Saving the Commons in an Age of Plunder
Authors: Batt H. William
Published: March 2016

Land ownership, as commonly understood today, originated with the enclosure movement during the English Tudor era almost four centuries ago. Karl Polanyi referred to this “propertization” of nature as the “great transformation.” That land, water, and air was a social commons is now archaic and forgotten, and with it the classical economic concept of rent, which was, in theory, once paid to royalty as the earth's guardian. Garrett Hardin's article, “The Tragedy of the Commons,” raised alarm about the abuse and loss of this realm, and he recommended constraints and privatization to prevent this. Most people view titles to landed property much as they do their household goods, but Henry George saw that the earth should be seen as a common resource and its value taxed to benefit everyone. This would restore economic equilibrium to market exchanges and pay for government services. The capture of natural resource rents can supplant taxes on wages and capital goods, and it comports with all textbook principles of sound tax theory. This policy can be the modern replacement for the commons, and implementing resource rent capture is both economically and technically feasible.
Enclosing the Commons in Honduras
Authors: Shipley Tyler
Published: March 2016

We are witnessing in the 21st century a dramatic new wave of enclosures of common resources and traditional or indigenous landholdings, as small agrarian producers across the global South are losing their land to large corporations and landowners, especially in the agribusiness and extractive industries. In the context of competing theories about land grabbing and the global commons, this article will offer a detailed empirical account of the strategies by which capital has seized land from smallholders and communities in Honduras, with emphasis on the wide variety of tactics that are used to both grab the land itself and also to maintain an aura of legality around a process that often includes at least the threat of violence.
Two Models of Ownership: How Commons Has Co‐Existed with Private Property
Authors: Tabachnick David
Published: March 2016

This article challenges the claim by many historians that the rise of capitalism requires the destruction of common property systems. In contrast to the English case in which commons were enclosed, French peasants used their common property system to regulate the market, provide a rural safety net and a democratic check on elites, while urban industry developed. European battles over common property replayed in surprising ways in colonial African countries such as Sierra Leone, and echoes reemerge today. The West African country of Guinea tests two possible paths to development of a market society: the English path and the French path. Interviews with key government officials collected in 1993 help explain why Guinea, despite adopting a land law in 1992 inspired by the English path, has so far failed to widely apply the law and, in fact, is following the French path. The United States pursued a policy of replacing American Indian common property systems with exclusive individual property rights. Nonetheless, Indian common property survives in the form of recent recognition of Indian off‐reservation hunting and fishing rights. The Menominee reservation successfully resisted the destruction of its common property system and today participates in the market in a manner that preserves reservation ecology, democratic government, and Menominee cultural identity. Rethinking the meaning of French, African, and U.S. accommodation to common property systems offers important lessons for contemporary development policies in Africa and around the world.
Survey on testing for gestational diabetes mellitus in Australia
Authors: Flack Jeff R. , Ross Glynis P.
Published: March 2016

We surveyed members of National Association of Diabetes Centres (NADC) assessing use of new Australasian Diabetes In Pregnancy Society (ADIPS) and Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RANZCOG) Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) diagnostic guidelines in Australia. We found piecemeal adoption of recommended changes, with cessation of the 50 g glucose challenge test (GCT) universal, early screening implementation common, but by varied methodologies, and new diagnostic criteria acceptance far from complete with significant workload increases almost universal.
Longitudinal study of maternal body mass index, gestational weight gain, and offspring asthma
Authors: Dumas O. , Varraso R. , Gillman M. W. , Field A. E. , Camargo C. A.
Published: March 2016

Background

Sparse data are available on the relationship between prenatal exposures and asthma during later childhood. In a longitudinal study of adolescents and their mothers, we examined the association of (i) maternal prepregnancy body mass index (BMI) and (ii) gestational weight gain (GWG), with incidence of allergic and nonallergic asthma in offspring.

Methods

Analyses were conducted using data from 12 963 children aged 9–14 years at enrolment in the Growing Up Today Study, and their mothers, who are participants in the Nurses’ Health Study II. Physician‐diagnosed asthma and allergies were assessed by questionnaires sent regularly to participants and their mothers. Logistic regression was used to evaluate associations of maternal BMI and GWG with offspring asthma, overall and by subtype.

Results

Physician‐diagnosed asthma during childhood or adolescence was reported by 2694 children (21%). Maternal prepregnancy overweight (OR: 1.19, 95% CI: 1.03–1.38) and obesity (1.34, 1.08–1.68) were associated with offspring asthma. In asthma subtype analyses, the association was seen only for asthma onset before age 12 years. Moreover, the association of maternal obesity with nonallergic asthma was observed in boys (2.39, 1.40–4.09) and not in girls (0.96, 0.50–1.85; Pinteraction = 0.03); the opposite pattern was suggested for allergic asthma. With regard to GWG, an association was suggested between gains of <15 lb and higher risk of offspring asthma (1.28, 0.98–1.66), without clear allergy‐ or sex‐related patterns.

Conclusion

The relation of several prenatal factors to risk of childhood asthma supports the early origins hypothesis for asthma. The observed allergy‐ and sex‐specific patterns suggest multiple etiologic pathways.
T follicular helper (Tfh) cells in normal immune responses and in allergic disorders
Authors: Varricchi G. , Harker J. , Borriello F. , Marone G. , Durham S. R. , Shamji M. H.
Published: March 2016

Follicular helper T cells (Tfh) are located within germinal centers of lymph nodes. Cognate interaction between Tfh, B cells, and IL‐21 drives B cells to proliferate and differentiate into plasma cells thereby leading to antibody production. Tfh cells and IL‐21 are involved in infectious and autoimmune diseases, immunodeficiencies, vaccination, and cancer. Human peripheral blood CXCR5+ CD4+ T cells comprise different subsets of Tfh‐like cells. Despite the importance of the IgE response in the pathogenesis of allergic disorders, little is known about the role of follicular and blood Tfh cells and IL‐21 in human and experimental allergic disease. Here, we review recent advances regarding the phenotypic and functional characteristics of both follicular and blood Tfh cells and of the IL‐21/IL‐21R system in the context of allergic disorders.
Incidence of Atrial Fibrillation following Alcohol Septal Ablation for Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy
Authors: Moss Travis J. , Zipse Matthew M. , Krantz Mori J. , Sauer William H. , Salcedo Ernesto E. , Schuller Joseph L.
Published: March 2016

Background

Patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) are at a fourfold to sixfold higher risk of developing atrial fibrillation (AF) compared to the general population, though incidence rates among patients undergoing alcohol septal ablation (ASA) are not well characterized. The purpose of this study was to evaluate atrial fibrillation incidence following ASA.

Methods

We studied 132 consecutive HCM patients without comorbid AF that underwent 154 ASA procedures. The incidence of AF in follow‐up was assessed through chart abstraction including electrocardiography. Survival free of AF was estimated using Kaplan‐Meier methodology.

Results

Over a mean follow‐up of 3.6 ± 2.7 years (maximum 11.3 years), 10 (7.6%) patients developed new‐onset AF. Of those who developed AF, both resting and provoked left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) gradients had improved significantly (difference –79.78 mm Hg, P ≤ 0.005). Severity of mitral regurgitation improved in 7 (70%) patients. Survival free of AF was estimated to be 99.1%, 93.7%, and 91.7% at 1, 3, and 5 years.

Conclusions

Despite relieving LVOT obstruction and improving mitral regurgitation severity via ASA, new‐onset AF remained a common complication of hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.
Adenosine and Preexcitation Variants: Reappraisal of Electrocardiographic Changes
Authors: Ali Hussam , Lupo Pierpaolo , Foresti Sara , De Ambroggi Guido , Epicoco Gianluca , Fundaliotis Angelica , Cappato Riccardo
Published: March 2016

Intravenous adenosine is a short‐acting blocker of the atrioventricular node that has been used to unmask subtle or latent preexcitation, and also to enable catheter ablation in selected patients with absent or intermittent preexcitation. Depending on the accessory pathway characteristics, intravenous adenosine may produce specific electrocardiographic changes highly suggestive of the preexcitation variant. Herein, we view different ECG responses to this pharmacological test in various preexcitation patterns that were confirmed by electrophysiological studies. Careful analysis of electrocardiographic changes during adenosine test, with emphasis on P‐delta interval, preexcitation degree, and atrioventricular block, can be helpful to diagnose the preexcitation variant/pattern.
The severity of acute bronchiolitis in infants was associated with quality of life nine months later
Authors: Rolfsjord Leif Bjarte , Skjerven Håvard Ove , Carlsen Kai‐Håkon , Mowinckel Petter , Bains Karen Eline Stensby , Bakkeheim Egil , Lødrup Carlsen Karin C.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Acute bronchiolitis in infancy increases the risk of later asthma and reduced health‐related quality of life (QoL). We aimed to see whether the severity of acute bronchiolitis in the first year of life was associated with QoL nine months later.

Methods

The parents of 209 of 404 of children hospitalised for acute bronchiolitis in eight paediatric departments in south‐east Norway at a mean four months of age (range 0–12 months) completed the Infant/Toddler Quality of Life Questionnaire sent by mail nine months after the acute illness. Disease severity was measured by length of stay and the need for supportive treatment. Interactions with gender, inclusion age, prematurity, maternal ethnicity and maternal education were examined.

Results

Reduced QoL in four domains was associated with increased length of stay and need for ventilatory support. Physical abilities and general health were associated with both severity markers, whereas bodily pain and discomfort and change in health were associated with length of stay. Ventilatory support was more negatively associated with QoL than atopic eczema and also associated with reduced parental emotions and parental time.

Conclusion

The severity of acute bronchiolitis in infants was associated with reduced QoL nine months later.
The accuracy of delivery of target pressures using self‐inflating bag manometers in a benchtop study
Authors: Rafferty Anthony R. , Johnson Lucy , Maxfield Dominic , Dawson Jennifer A. , Davis Peter G. , Thio Marta
Published: March 2016

Aim

We tested whether operators using manometers attached to self‐inflating bags could accurately deliver set targeted peak inspiratory pressures (PIPs) compared to the Neopuff™ T‐piece resuscitator (TPR).

Methods

Participants provided positive pressure ventilation to a leak‐free neonatal test lung at a rate of 60 inflations/min and a flow of 8 L/min. Participants used three manometers attached to self‐inflating bags and a Neopuff™ TPR to target PIPs of 20, 30 and 40 cmH2O on each device. Mean PIPs delivered with each manometer were compared to the ‘gold standard’ Neopuff™ TPR.

Results

In total, 13 991 inflations delivered by 20 participants were analysed. At all target PIPs, the mean PIP delivered using the Mercury Medical manometer attached to a Laerdal self‐inflating bag was significantly higher by 5 cmH2O (p < 0.01) than the Neopuff™ TPR. The PIP delivered using both the Ambu™ and Parker Healthcare manometers attached to their respective devices was similar to that delivered by the Neopuff™ TPR at all targeted PIPs.

Conclusion

Accurately targeted PIPs can be achieved when a manometer specifically designed for use on a self‐inflating bag is used during manual ventilation. This may be useful in settings where access to a Neopuff™ TPR or a gas flow source is limited.
Effects of a Mindfulness Intervention on Sports‐Anxiety, Pessimism, and Flow in Competitive Cyclists
Authors: Scott‐Hamilton John , Schutte Nicola S. , Brown Rhonda F.
Published: March 2016

Background

This study investigated whether mindfulness training increases athletes’ mindfulness and flow experience and decreases sport‐specific anxiety and sport‐specific pessimism.

Methods

Cyclists were assigned to an eight‐week mindfulness intervention, which incorporated a mindful spin‐bike training component, or a wait‐list control condition. Participants completed baseline and post‐test measures of mindfulness, flow, sport‐anxiety, and sport‐related pessimistic attributions.

Results

Analyses of covariance showed significant positive effects on mindfulness, flow, and pessimism for the 27 cyclists in the mindfulness intervention condition compared with the 20 cyclists in the control condition. Changes in mindfulness experienced by the intervention participants were positively associated with changes in flow.

Conclusions

Results suggest that mindfulness‐based interventions tailored to specific athletic pursuits can be effective in facilitating flow experiences.
Oops I Did it Again: Examining Self‐Licensing Effects in a Subsequent Self‐Regulation Dilemma
Authors: Prinsen Sosja , Evers Catharine , de Ridder Denise
Published: March 2016

Background

Previous studies have mainly examined the immediate effects of self‐licensing on self‐regulation failure. The present vignette studies examined what happens when a second self‐regulation dilemma is encountered.

Methods

In Studies 1 (N = 52) and 2 (N = 166), participants read a vignette in which the protagonist chooses to buy a treat while being on a diet, which was preceded by a license (License condition) or not (Control condition). The self‐reported likelihood of indulging again when a second dilemma was presented in the same situation served as the dependent variable. Study 2 included measures of self‐regulatory ability (motivation and self‐efficacy) and also presented the dilemma in a new situation.

Results

Study 1 showed that participants were more likely to indulge again after an initial indulgent choice with a license. This was replicated in Study 2, which also showed that self‐licensing had no effect on goal re‐engagement in a new situation. A marginally significant positive effect of self‐licensing was found for self‐efficacy.

Conclusions

The results obtained suggest that self‐licensing negatively affects goal re‐engagement in the same situation, but not in a new situation. Whether self‐licensing maintains or increases feelings of self‐efficacy needs to be validated in future studies.
Predicting Physical Activity‐Related Outcomes in Overweight and Obese Adults: A Health Action Process Approach
Authors: Hattar Anne , Pal Sebely , Hagger Martin S.
Published: March 2016

Background

We tested the adequacy of a model based on the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) in predicting changes in psychological, body composition, and cardiovascular risk outcomes with respect to physical activity participation in overweight and obese adults.

Methods

Measures of HAPA constructs (action and maintenance self‐efficacy, outcome expectancies, action planning, risk perceptions, intentions, behaviour), psychological outcomes (quality of life, depression, anxiety, stress symptoms), body composition variables (body weight, body fat mass), cardiovascular risk measures (total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein), and self‐reported physical activity behaviour were administered to participants (N = 74) at baseline, and 6 and 12 weeks later.

Results

Data were analysed using variance‐based structural equation modelling with residualised change scores for HAPA variables. The model revealed effects of action self‐efficacy and outcome expectancies on physical activity intentions, action self‐efficacy on maintenance self‐efficacy, and maintenance self‐efficacy and intentions on action planning. Intention predicted psychological and body composition outcomes indirectly through physical activity behaviour. Action planning was a direct predictor of psychological, cardiovascular, and body composition outcomes.

Conclusions

Data supported HAPA hypotheses in relation to intentions and behaviour, but not the role of action planning as a mediator of the intention–behaviour relationship. Action planning predicted outcomes independent of intentions and behaviour.
Scholarly publishing landscapes: a geographical perspective
Authors: Sidaway James D
Published: March 2016

How do changes in journal publishing relate to the locations of knowledge production, disciplinary power and value? This commentary reconsiders these questions in the light of debates about open access and the proliferation of predatory publishers.
Socialism or Psychology: Society at the Crossroads
Authors: Arfken Michael
Published: March 2016

In a recent article, Bernice Lott suggests that modern psychology has failed to investigate in any systematic fashion existing beliefs and attitudes surrounding socialism. While there is much to commend in Lott's analysis, her support for a social democratic version of socialism tends to obscure the more revolutionary potentials of socialist practice. To adequately address social and environmental justice, I argue that the trajectory of psychological research and practice must be brought into alignment with a socialism that is committed to interrogating and ultimately destabilizing the capitalist mode of production.
Violent Media Effects on Aggression: A Commentary from a Cross‐Cultural Perspective
Authors: Krahé Barbara
Published: March 2016

It is argued that, despite differences in cultural norms and practices, the evidence for a link between violent media use and aggression is remarkably consistent across different countries. Along with evidence that different operationalizations of violent media use also converge across countries, these findings strengthen the conclusion that violent media are a risk factor for aggression and validate the psychological explanations for these effects. However, we need comparative studies based on a consistent methodology and a theory‐based selection of cultural difference variables to properly examine the potential impact of culture on the association between violent media use and aggression.
Retardation of quality changes in camel meat sausages by phenolic compounds and phenolic extracts
Authors: Maqsood Sajid , Manheem Kusaimah , Abushelaibi Aisha , Kadim Isam Tawfik
Published: March 2016

Impact of tannic acid (TA), date seed extract (DSE), catechin (CT) and green tea extract (GTE) on lipid oxidation, microbial load and textural properties of camel meat sausages during 12 days of refrigerated storage was investigated. TA and CT showed higher activities in all antioxidative assays compared to DSE and GTE. Lipid oxidation and microbial growth was higher for control sausages when compared to other samples. TA and CT at a level of 200 mg/kg were more effective in retarding lipid oxidation and lowering microbial count (P < 0.05). Sausages treated with TA and DSE were found to have higher hardness, gumminess and chewiness values compared to other treatments (P < 0.05). Addition of different phenolic compounds or extract did not influence the sensory color of sausages. Furthermore, sensory quality was also found to be superior in TA and CT treated sausages. Therefore, pure phenolic compounds (TA and CT) proved to be more effective in retaining microbial and sensorial qualities of camel meat sausages compared to phenolic extracts (GTE and DSE) over 12 days of storage at 4°C.
Post‐ovulatory aging of mouse oocytes in vivo and in vitro: Effects of caffeine on exocytosis and translocation of cortical granules
Authors: Zheng Jie , Yin Xun‐Qiang , Ge Wei , He Gui‐Fang , Qian Wei‐Ping , Ma Jun‐Yu , Shen Wei , Yin Shen , Sun Qing‐Yuan
Published: March 2016

The developmental potential of post‐ovulatory oocytes decreases with aging in vivo and in vitro. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effects of a potent antioxidant caffeine on cortical granules (CGs) distribution in mouse oocytes aging in vivo and in vitro. We found that in vivo administration of 150 mg/kg caffeine caused ovulation of some morphologically abnormal oocytes showing premature exocytosis or congregation of CGs, but significantly decreased abnormal distribution of CGs in oocytes aging for 6 h, 12 h and 18 h in vivo compared to those without caffeine treatment. Unexpectedly, supplementation of oocyte culture medium with 10 mmol/L caffeine accelerated CGs release of oocytes and the normal CG distribution rate dramatically decreased from 6 h in oocytes aging in vitro. It appeared that oocytes showed a high degree of abnormal CG distribution by aging for 18 h, and caffeine might delay oocyte CG exocytosis in vivo, but accelerates CG exocytosis in vitro. Our findings may have implications for improving assisted reproduction technologies.
Empowering Children Left Behind in China
Authors: Hu Yang , Burton Judith , Lonne Bob
Published: March 2016

In the last two decades in rural China, increasing numbers of children of economic migrants have been left behind with kin, which is of growing concern for social work and welfare policy. The genesis of this rural to urban migration has been China's rapid economic development and greater opportunities for work in better paying jobs in cities. However, there is growing evidence of the negative impact upon these children. This paper reports the views of caregivers (n = 23) and school personnel (n = 5) from a small town in Northeast China. Interviews sought adults opinions on these children's needs, with the major outcome being children's need to be empowered – to be respected, to express themselves, to have influence, and to be supported to be able to more fully participate in education and their communities. We argue that caregiver strategies to empower children left behind provide insight into culturally appropriate processes and practices that underpin social inclusion. However, some discrepancies between the views of caregivers and school personnel alert us to the potential for tension between family and broader community and institutional views. Implications for social work practice include responding to the cultural values embedded in child rearing practices and local ideas about children's entitlements.
Cell proliferation in the amputated limb of lizard leading to scarring is reduced compared to the regenerating tail
Authors: Alibardi Lorenzo
Published: March 2016

After amputation, the tail of lizards regenerates while the limb forms a short scarring outgrowth. Using phospho‐histone‐H3 immunohistochemistry the mitotic activity of limb tissues at 12–25 days after amputation has been studied, when a limb outgrowth of 0.5–2 mm in length is covered by wound epidermis and the underlying connective is turning into a dense scar. In comparison with a regenerating tail of 3–5 mm in length, the number of dividing cells is reduced of 40–70% in different tissues of the scarring limb 1–2 mm in length at 18 days postamputation. Dividing cells are still present at 12–25 days postamputation in the cartilaginous epiphyses of the transected tibia and fibula and of the untransected femur. Also, the injured muscles present at the base of the scarring outgrowth still contain sparse dividing cells after 25 days postamputation of the limb. Together previous studies, the present observations suggest that after the initial proliferation of fibroblasts deriving from the injured tissues, especially from the dermis and intermuscle connectives during the initial 7–15 days postinjury, these cells cover the injured tissues underneath the wound epidermis, but rapidly produce high levels of collagen turning the initial blastema into a scar.
Microvascularization of the thyroid glands in larval and adult Xenopus laevis‐ histomorphology and scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts
Authors: Hopfinger Mathias , Huber Bettina , Lametschwandtner Alois
Published: March 2016

This study demonstrates gross arterial supply, venous drainage and microvascular patterns of larval and adult thyroid glands in the African Clawed Frog, Xenopus laevis by scanning electron microscopy of vascular corrosion casts and light microscopy of stained serial tissue sections. Results confirm published findings gained by microscopical dissections with respect to gross arterial supply. However, in adult frogs one rather than two thyroid veins are found. This study reveals for the first time that bilaterally located thyroid glands in premetamorphosis have immature capillary networks, lack a clear hierarchy of blood vessels, and show many signs of sprouting angiogenesis. During metamorphic climax, blood vessels gain a clear hierarchy and capillaries form closed networks around thyroid follicles. From climax onwards, non‐sprouting angiogenesis (intussusceptive microvascular growth) becomes the prevailing mode of angiogenesis intensifying follicle capillarization. Due to narrow interfollicular spaces, thyroidal arterioles remain superficial while draining venules are located interfollicularly. In contrast with the mammalian thyroid gland where most thyroid follicles have their own capillary beds, most thyroid follicles in Xenopus share their capillary beds with neighbouring follicles. Consequently, the concept of individual morphological and functional angiofollicular units applicable to adult mammalian and human thyroid glands is not applicable to larval and adult amphibian thyroid glands.
Advances in understanding the pathogenesis of congenital erythropoietic porphyria
Authors: Di Pierro Elena , Brancaleoni Valentina , Granata Francesca
Published: March 2016

Congenital erythropoietic porphyria (CEP) is a rare genetic disease resulting from the remarkable deficient activity of uroporphyrinogen III synthase, the fourth enzyme of the haem biosynthetic pathway. This enzyme defect results in overproduction of the non‐physiological and pathogenic porphyrin isomers, uroporphyrin I and coproporphyrin I. The predominant clinical characteristics of CEP include bullous cutaneous photosensitivity to visible light from early infancy, progressive photomutilation and chronic haemolytic anaemia. The severity of clinical manifestations is markedly heterogeneous among patients; and interdependence between disease severity and porphyrin amount in the tissues has been pointed out. A more pronounced endogenous production of porphyrins concomitant to activation of ALAS2, the first and rate‐limiting of the haem synthesis enzymes in erythroid cells, has also been reported. CEP is inherited as autosomal recessive or X‐linked trait due to mutations in UROS or GATA1 genes; however an involvement of other causative or modifier genes cannot be ruled out.
A high rate of telomeric sister chromatid exchange occurs in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia B‐cells
Authors: Medves Sandrine , Auchter Morgan , Chambeau Laetitia , Gazzo Sophie , Poncet Delphine , Grangier Blandine , Verney Aurélie , Moussay Etienne , Ammerlaan Wim , Brisou Gabriel , Morjani Hamid , Géli Vincent , Palissot Valérie , Berchem Guy , Salles Gilles , Wenner Thomas
Published: March 2016

Cancer cells protect their telomere ends from erosion through reactivation of telomerase or by using the Alternative Lengthening of Telomere (ALT) mechanism that depends on homologous recombination. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) B cells are characterized by almost no telomerase activity, shelterin deregulation and telomere fusions. To characterize telomeric maintenance mechanisms in B‐CLL patients, we measured their telomere length, telomerase expression and the main hallmarks of the ALT activity i.e. C‐circle concentration, an extra‐chromosomal telomere repeat (ECTR), and the level of telomeric sister chromatid exchange (T‐SCE) rate. Patients showed relative homogenous telomere length although almost no TERT transcript and nearly no C‐circle were evidenced. Nevertheless, compared with normal B cells, B‐CLL cells showed an increase in T‐SCE rate that was correlated with a strong down‐regulation of the topoisomerase III alpha (TOP3A) expression, involved in the dissolution of Holliday Junctions (HJ), together with an increased expression of SLX1A, SLX4, MUS81 and GEN1, involved in the resolution of HJ. Altogether, our results suggest that the telomere maintenance mechanism of B‐CLL cells do not preferentially use telomerase or ALT. Rather, the rupture of the dissolvasome/resolvasome balance may increase telomere shuffling that could homogenize telomere length, slowing telomere erosion in this disease.
Rituximab extended schedule or retreatment trial for low tumour burden non‐follicular indolent B‐cell non‐Hodgkin lymphomas: Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group Protocol E4402
Authors: Williams Michael E. , Hong Fangxin , Gascoyne Randy D. , Wagner Lynne I. , Krauss John C. , Habermann Thomas M. , Swinnen Lode J. , Schuster Stephen J. , Peterson Christopher G. , Sborov Mark D. , Martin S. Eric , Weiss Matthias , Ehmann W. Christopher , Horning Sandra J. , Kahl Brad S.
Published: March 2016

The rituximab extended schedule or retreatment trial (RESORT; E4402) was a phase 3 randomized prospective trial comparing maintenance rituximab (MR) versus a retreatment (RR) dosing strategy in asymptomatic, low tumour burden indolent lymphoma. A planned exploratory sub‐study compared the two strategies for small lymphocytic (SLL) and marginal zone lymphomas (MZL). Patients responding to rituximab weekly × 4 were randomized to MR (single dose rituximab every 3 months until treatment failure) or RR (rituximab weekly × 4) at the time of each progression until treatment failure. The primary endpoint was time to treatment failure (TTTF). Patients with SLL (n = 57), MZL (n = 71) and unclassifiable small B‐cell lymphoma (n = 3) received induction rituximab. The overall response rate (ORR) was 40% [95% confidence interval (CI) 31–49%; SLL ORR 22·8%; MZL ORR 52·1%]; all 52 responders were randomized. At a median of 4·3 years from randomization, treatment failure occurred in 18/23 RR and 15/29 MR. The median TTTF was 1·4 years for RR and 4·8 years for MR (P = 0·012); median time to first cytotoxic therapy was 6·3 years for RR and not reached for MR (P = 0·0002). Survival did not differ (P = 0·72). In low tumour burden SLL and MZL patients responding to rituximab induction, MR significantly improved TTTF as compared with RR.
Molecular genetics of childhood, adolescent and young adult non‐Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Miles Rodney R. , Shah Rikin K. , Frazer J. Kimble
Published: March 2016

Molecular genetic abnormalities are ubiquitous in non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL), but genetic changes are not yet used to define specific lymphoma subtypes. Certain recurrent molecular genetic abnormalities in NHL underlie molecular pathogenesis and/or are associated with prognosis or represent potential therapeutic targets. Most molecular genetic studies of B‐ and T‐NHL have been performed on adult patient samples, and the relevance of many of these findings for childhood, adolescent and young adult NHL remains to be demonstrated. In this review, we focus on NHL subtypes that are most common in young patients and emphasize features actually studied in younger NHL patients. This approach highlights what is known about NHL genetics in young patients but also points to gaps that remain, which will require cooperative efforts to collect and share biological specimens for genomic and genetic analyses in order to help predict outcomes and guide therapy in the future.
The role of visual and spatial working memory in forming mental models derived from survey and route descriptions
Authors: Meneghetti Chiara , Labate Enia , Pazzaglia Francesca , Hamilton Colin , Gyselinck Valérie
Published: March 2016

This study examines the involvement of spatial and visual working memory (WM) in the construction of flexible spatial models derived from survey and route descriptions. Sixty young adults listened to environment descriptions, 30 from a survey perspective and the other 30 from a route perspective, while they performed spatial (spatial tapping [ST]) and visual (dynamic visual noise [DVN]) secondary tasks – believed to overload the spatial and visual working memory (WM) components, respectively – or no secondary task (control, C). Their mental representations of the environment were tested by free recall and a verification test with both route and survey statements. Results showed that, for both recall tasks, accuracy was worse in the ST than in the C or DVN conditions. In the verification test, the effect of both ST and DVN was a decreasing accuracy for sentences testing spatial relations from the opposite perspective to the one learnt than if the perspective was the same; only ST had a stronger interference effect than the C condition for sentences from the opposite perspective from the one learnt. Overall, these findings indicate that both visual and spatial WM, and especially the latter, are involved in the construction of perspective‐flexible spatial models.
Effects of transplanted circulating endothelial progenitor cells and platelet microparticles in atherosclerosis development
Authors: Georgescu Adriana , Alexandru Nicoleta , Andrei Eugen , Dragan Emanuel , Cochior Daniel , Dias Sérgio
Published: March 2016

Background Information

Atherosclerosis is an inflammatory disease, in which risk factors such as hyperlipidemia and hypertension affect the arterial endothelium, resulting in dysfunction, cell damage or both. The number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells and microparticles provides invaluable outcome prediction for atherosclerosis disease. However, evidence for the therapeutic potential of endothelial progenitor cells and microparticles in atherosclerosis development is limited. Our study was designed to investigate the possible protective role of a cell therapy‐based approach, using endothelial progenitor cells and the dual behaviour of circulating platelet microparticles, on atherosclerosis development in hypertensive‐hypercholesterolemic hamster model. Consequently, control hamsters received four intravenous inoculations of: (1) 1×105 endothelial progenitor cells of healthy origins in one dose per month, during four months of diet‐induced atherosclerosis, and after hypertensive‐hypercholesterolemic diet for further four months; (2) in a second set of experiments, 1×105 endothelial progenitor cells of healthy origins or/and 1×105 platelet microparticles of atherosclerotic origins were inoculated every other month during hypertensive‐hypercholesterolemic diet.

Results

Endothelial progenitor cell treatment had the following effects: (1) re‐established plasmatic parameters: cholesterol and triglyceride concentrations, blood pressure, heart rate, cytokine and chemokine profiles, platelet microparticle pro‐thrombotic activity and endothelial progenitor cell paracrine activity reflected by cytokine/chemokine detection; (2) reduced lipid, macrophage and microparticle accumulation in liver; (3) reduced atherosclerosis development, revealed by decreased lipid, macrophage and microparticle content of arterial wall; (4) induced the recruitment and incorporation of endothelial progenitor cells into liver and arterial wall; (5) improved arterial dysfunction by increasing contraction and relaxation; (6) reduced the protein expression of specific pro‐inflammatory molecules in liver and arterial wall. Platelet microparticle transplantation aggravated the above‐mentioned biomarkers and atherosclerosis process, which were partially reverted with co‐inoculation of platelet microparticles and endothelial progenitor cells.

Conclusions

With this study, we demonstrate in a hypertensive‐hypercholesterolemic hamster model, that the endothelial progenitor cell‐based therapy suppresses the development of atherosclerosis and reduces hepatic lipid and macrophage accumulation with the consequent alleviation of dyslipidaemia and hypertension.

Significance

Our results support the notion that increasing the number of circulating endothelial progenitor cells by different ways could be a promising therapeutic tool for atherosclerosis.
The evolution of fishes and corals on reefs: form, function and interdependence
Authors: Bellwood David R. , Goatley Christopher H. R. , Bellwood Orpha
Published: March 2016

Coral reefs are renowned for their spectacular biodiversity and the close links between fishes and corals. Despite extensive fossil records and common biogeographic histories, the evolution of these two key groups has rarely been considered together. We therefore examine recent advances in molecular phylogenetics and palaeoecology, and place the evolution of fishes and corals in a functional context. In critically reviewing the available fossil and phylogenetic evidence, we reveal a marked congruence in the evolution of the two groups. Despite one group consisting of swimming vertebrates and the other colonial symbiotic invertebrates, fishes and corals have remarkably similar evolutionary histories. In thePaleocene andEocene [66–34 million years ago (Ma)] most modern fish and coral families were present, and both were represented by a wide range of functional morphotypes. However, there is little evidence of diversification at this time. By contrast, in theOligocene andMiocene (34–5.3 Ma), both groups exhibited rapid lineage diversification. There is also evidence of increasing reef area, occupation of new habitats, increasing coral cover, and potentially, increasing fish abundance. Functionally, theOligocene–Miocene is marked by the appearance of new fish and coral taxa associated with high‐turnover fast‐growth ecosystems and the colonization of reef flats. It is in this period that the functional characteristics of modern coral reefs were established. Most species, however, only arose in the last 5.3 million years (Myr;Plio–Pleistocene), with the average age of fish species being 5.3 Myr, and corals just 1.9 Myr. While these species are genetically distinct, phenotypic differences are often limited to variation in colour or minor morphological features. This suggests that the rapid increase in biodiversity during the last 5.3 Myr was not matched by changes in ecosystem function. For reef fishes, colour appears to be central to recent diversification. However, the presence of pigment patterns in theEocene suggests that colour may not have driven recent diversification. Furthermore, the lack of functional changes in fishes or corals over the last 5 Myr raises questions over the role and importance of biodiversity in shaping the future of coral reefs.
Facultative nitrogen fixation by legumes in the central Congo basin is downregulated during late successional stages
Authors: Bauters Marijn , Mapenzi Neville , Kearsley Elizabeth , Vanlauwe Bernard , Boeckx Pascal
Published: March 2016

The contribution of the legume community to the nitrogen cycle during natural forest regeneration remains poorly understood. We systematically assessed the changes in abundance and nodulation status of all legumes, across taxa and plant types, in a forest succession gradient in the Equateur Province of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Our results clearly show that symbiotic N2 fixation is downregulated during late successional stages.
No evidence of intrinsic spatial processes driving Neotropical savanna vegetation on different substrates
Authors: Mews Henrique A. , Pinto José Roberto R. , Eisenlohr Pedro V. , Lenza Eddie
Published: March 2016

The relationships between floristic patterns and environmental variation in tropical savannas have been the focus of many studies worldwide. However, important aspects of these relationships, such as the role of geographic distance in structuring plant communities, have received little attention. We investigated the individual and combined influences of substrate, climatic, and spatial factors on the floristic‐structural dissimilarity between two savanna physiognomies in the core region of Brazilian savannas: one on plain relief with deep soils and another on steep relief with shallow rocky soils. Ten 1‐ha plots were sampled in each physiognomy. We modeled species abundance using multiple linear models and variance partitioning. Our results indicated that spatial processes that are intrinsically related to species variation have negligible effects on floristic variation. The most important predictors in our models were related to soil characteristics (mainly nutrient availability) and topography (relief and elevation). Consequently, the substrate component exhibited the greatest power (14%) in explaining the floristic‐structural variation in the overall variance partitioning. Our results provide the first demonstration of the individual and combined contributions of substrate, climatic, and spatial factors to the occurrence and abundance of woody species in the most diverse and threatened savanna in the world. We also provide evidence that neutral processes might not be strong predictors of vegetation structure where savanna substrates differ greatly; instead, community structure may be primarily regulated by environmental filters.
Predicting the terminal velocity of dipterocarp fruit
Authors: Smith James R. , Bagchi Robert , Kettle Chris J. , Maycock Colin , Khoo Eyen , Ghazoul Jaboury
Published: March 2016

We measured the terminal velocity of helicopter‐like fruit from the Dipterocarpaceae family and present a model predicting the terminal velocities for all dipterocarp species in the Malesiana region. A ballistic model of seed dispersal using the observed terminal velocities predicted dispersal distances of 17–77 m under normal atmospheric conditions. These data are of applied use in parametizing models of species coexistence, forest regeneration and habitat connectivity in Southeast Asian tropical forests.
Conservation strategies for Araucaria Forests in Southern Brazil: assessing current and alternative approaches
Authors: Lacerda André E. B.
Published: March 2016

Efforts to protect the remaining Araucaria Forest fragments in Southern Brazil have focused on large forests dominated by the threatened species Araucaria angustifolia. However, such an approach can miss significant biodiversity by ignoring smaller forest fragments scattered throughout the landscape, many of which exist on small farms. Here, I evaluate the method used to define a set of natural reserves in Southern Brazil to assess if it captures and preserves the significant biodiversity that exists in this unique biome. I used a relatively simple field sampling methodology and statistical analyses to evaluate floristic and structural parameters, comparing tree species diversity within a large forest fragment (with and without A. angustifolia dominance) to smaller fragments in the surrounding landscape. While stands dominated by A. angustifolia showed primary forest‐like physiognomy, they did not have the levels of diversity expected for old‐growth forests. Traditional forestry parameters, especially basal area and number of individuals, are useful for differentiating forest types in terms of structure. While no single diversity index provides a complete picture of the composition and variation of diversity in forest fragments, when taken together and assessed using extrapolation and comparative statistics, they provide a meaningful method for comparing and identifying high priority areas for conservation. Future conservation strategies should look to alternative approaches for assessing biodiversity across the landscape, while including small‐scale landowners in conservation efforts.