bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Planning for conservation and restoration under climate and land use change in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest
Authors: Zwiener Victor P. , Padial André A. , Marques Márcia C. M. , Faleiro Frederico V. , Loyola Rafael , Peterson A. Townsend
Published: June 2017

Aim

To propose and compare priority sites for conservation and restoration of woody plants under diverse climate and land use scenarios, considering socio‐economic costs, presence of protected areas and distribution of forest remnants.

Location

The Atlantic Forest Biodiversity Hotspot, Brazil.

Methods

We used ecological niche modelling to estimate geographical distributions for 2,255 species under current and future climate scenarios, which we analysed in relation to spatially explicit land use projections, maps of forest remnants derived from remote sensing and socio‐economic variables for each municipality within the Atlantic Forest region. We identified spatial priorities that complement the current network of protected areas under three different prioritization scenarios: (1) conservation of existing forest remnants only; (2) conservation of remnants followed by restoration of degraded habitat; and (3) unconstrained actions, in which management location is not defined a priori. We compared our results under different levels of land protection, with targets of 10%, 17% and 20% of the Atlantic Forest extent.

Results

Current forest remnants cover only 12% of the Atlantic Forest, so targets of 17% and 20% were achieved only through active restoration. Targets of 17% and 20% captured most species and represented on average 26%–34% of species’ distributions. The spatial pattern of degraded habitats negatively affected representation of biodiversity and implied higher costs and reduced efficiency of planning. We did not observe major differences between conservation prioritizations based on contrasting climate change scenarios.

Main conclusions

Protection of forest remnants alone will not suffice to safeguard woody plant species under climate and land use changes; therefore, restoration actions are urgently needed in the Atlantic Forest. With integrated management actions and multicriterion nationwide planning, reaching the 17% of land protection of Aichi biodiversity targets will constitute an important step towards protecting Atlantic Forest biodiversity.
Changes in soil phosphorus pools during prolonged arable cropping in semiarid grasslands
Authors: von Sperber C. , Stallforth R. , Du Preez C. , Amelung W.
Published: June 2017

It is assumed that land‐use change has less effect on soil phosphorus (P) than on soil carbon (C) and nitrogen (N). Little is known, however, about the changes in soil P pools during prolonged arable cropping in semiarid grasslands. In this research, we measured changes in phosphorus pools of soil that had been cropped for 0–98 years in the South African Highveld. Hedley sequential extraction was carried out on bulk soil samples and size fractions to quantify inorganic and organic P pools along this temporal gradient. Total P content did not change with prolonged arable cropping, indicating that P removed by crops was compensated for by fertilizer application. The contributions of inorganic P (Pi) to the total P of bulk soil increased from 37 to 63%, with a corresponding decrease in organic P (Po). After approximately 60 years of cultivation, a steady‐state equilibrium was approached in all P fractions, which was characterized overall by smaller Po and larger Pi contents. These temporal dynamics were controlled mainly by P pools in the sand fraction and by the 0.1 m NaOH pool from the Hedley fractionation. Increases in Pi may reflect inorganic fertilizer applications, whereas losses in Po were attributed to crop harvest, erosion and mineralization of organic matter. Arable cropping affected both labile and stable P pools after land conversion, indicating that stable P pools were not mere sinks, but also slowly available sources of plant‐available P.

Highlights

Phosphorus pools in semiarid grassland soil respond to changes in management over decades.

Contributions of inorganic P to total P of bulk soil increased, with corresponding decreases in total organic P.

Modelling of temporal changes in total Pi and Po indicated a steady‐state equilibrium after ∼60 years.

The long‐term response of P pools was controlled mainly by dynamics of the sand fraction and the 0.1 m NaOH pool from Hedley fractionation
In‐situATR‐FTIR spectroscopic investigation of desorption of phosphate from haematite by bacteria
Authors: Hong Z. N. , Li J. Y. , Jiang J. , Liu Z. D. , Wang R. H. , Xu C. Y. , Xu R. K.
Published: June 2017

Phosphate (P) fixed on Fe‐ and Al‐(hydr)oxides can be released into solution by coexisting anions or molecules that have strong reactivity with the mineral surfaces. Bacteria have been shown to adhere strongly on to the (hydr)oxides through physical or chemical forces, or both. It is still unknown, however, whether bacteria can desorb P from oxides. We examined the desorption of P from haematite (α‐Fe2O3) by Bacillus subtilis and Pseudomonas fluorescens through the combined use of in‐situ attenuated total reflectance Fourier‐transform infrared (ATR‐FTIR) spectroscopy and macroscopic batch experiments. The ATR‐FTIR data of ternary bacteria–P–haematite systems indicated a release of P that was concurrent with the attachment of bacteria on to the haematite surface, giving direct and in‐situ evidence for the displacement of P by bacteria. The P‐desorbing ability of bacteria was quantified by batch desorption experiments, and was further supported by the inhibitory role of bacteria in P adsorption on to haematite under varying concentrations of P and amounts of bacteria. In‐situ ATR‐FTIR investigations and Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek (DLVO) prediction suggested that bacteria might compete for sorption sites with P through their electrostatic and chemical interactions (coordination of bacterial phosphate and carboxyl groups on the haematite surface) with the haematite surface. In addition, the bacteria reduced greatly the positive charge of haematite, and the reduction correlated non‐linearly with the decline in P adsorption. Therefore, the P‐mobilizing ability of bacteria is probably attributed to the competition between P and bacterial surface groups and reduction in the positive charge on haematite by bacteria. These findings elucidate a potential role for bacteria in mobilizing P that is chemically adsorbed on Fe‐oxides, which enhances the availability of P to plants and its mobility in natural environments.

Highlights

Whether bacteria can desorb phosphate from oxides remained unknown.

Bacteria enhanced desorption of phosphate from haematite and inhibited its adsorption by haematite.

Electrostatic and chemical interactions might help bacteria compete with phosphate.

Reduction in positive charges might also contribute to phosphate‐mobilizing ability of bacteria.
From competition to facilitation: how tree species respond to neighbourhood diversity
Authors: Fichtner Andreas , Härdtle Werner , Li Ying , Bruelheide Helge , Kunz Matthias , von Oheimb Goddert
Published: June 2017

Studies on tree communities have demonstrated that species diversity can enhance forest productivity, but the driving mechanisms at the local neighbourhood level remain poorly understood. Here, we use data from a large‐scale biodiversity experiment with 24 subtropical tree species to show that neighbourhood tree species richness generally promotes individual tree productivity. We found that the underlying mechanisms depend on a focal tree's functional traits: For species with a conservative resource‐use strategy diversity effects were brought about by facilitation, and for species with acquisitive traits by competitive reduction. Moreover, positive diversity effects were strongest under low competition intensity (quantified as the total basal area of neighbours) for acquisitive species, and under high competition intensity for conservative species. Our findings demonstrate that net biodiversity effects in tree communities can vary over small spatial scales, emphasising the need to consider variation in local neighbourhood interactions to better understand effects at the community level.
Validation of 2D‐animated pictures as an investigative tool in the behavioural sciences: A case study with a West African cichlid fish,Pelvicachromis pulcher
Authors: Scherer Ulrike , Godin Jean‐Guy J. , Schuett Wiebke
Published: June 2017

Virtual stimuli represent an increasingly popular tool in the study of animal behaviour. Modern techniques have the potential to simplify and improve traditional experiments using live stimuli. However, the increasing availability of diverse techniques is associated with problems and limitations. Although many new methods have been developed, their validation remains largely untested. In the present study, we therefore performed two experiments to test whether 2‐D animations of predators and conspecifics elicit biologically appropriate behavioural responses in male rainbow kribs,Pelvicachromis pulcher. Individual responses towards a sympatric natural fish predator,Parachanna obscura, were tested using live predators and still colour photographs, animated using PowerPoint©. Compared to control trials (empty aquarium and white computer screen, respectively), individuals decreased their activity in response to both live and animated predators. We found no difference in activity between live and animation trials. Further, we tested individual aggression (frequency of aggressive behaviours) exhibited towards live and animated conspecifics. Individual aggressive behaviours shown towards live and animated conspecifics were positively correlated. Moreover, an individual's mean distance towards the opponent was a suitable proxy for individual aggression permitting the facilitation and standardisation of an individual's aggression through the use of a tracking software compared with the more laborious, traditional manual assessment. Our results show that simple, inexpensive animation techniques have the potential to provide an easy‐to‐apply and useful technological advance in animal behaviour research.
Streptococcus pyogenes quinolinate‐salvage pathway—structural and functional studies of quinolinate phosphoribosyl transferase and NH3‐dependent NAD+ synthetase
Authors: Booth William T. , Morris Trevor L. , Mysona David P. , Shah Milan J. , Taylor Linda K. , Karlin Taylor W. , Clary Kathryn , Majorek Karolina A. , Offermann Lesa R. , Chruszcz Maksymilian
Published: June 2017

Streptococcus pyogenes, also known as Group A Strep (GAS), is an obligate human pathogen that is responsible for millions of infections and numerous deaths per year. Infection manifestations can range from simple, acute pharyngitis to more complex, necrotizing fasciitis. To date, most treatments for GAS infections involve the use of common antibiotics including tetracycline and clindamycin. Unfortunately, new strains have been identified that are resistant to these drugs, therefore, new targets must be identified to treat drug‐resistant strains. This work is focused on the structural and functional characterization of three proteins: spNadC, spNadD, and spNadE. These enzymes are involved in the biosynthesis of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+). The structures of spNadC and spNadE were determined. SpNadC is suggested to play a role in GAS virulence, while spNadE, functions as an NAD synthetase and is considered to be a new drug target. Determination of the spNadE structure uncovered a putative, NH3 channel, which may provide insight into the mechanistic details of NH3‐dependent NAD+ synthetases in prokaryotes.

Enzymes

Quinolinate phosphoribosyltransferase: EC2.4.2.19 and NAD synthetase: EC6.3.1.5.

Database

Protein structures for spNadC, spNadCΔ69A, and spNadE are deposited into Protein Data Bank under the accession codes 5HUL, 5HUO & 5HUP, and 5HUH & 5HUJ, respectively.
Methodology for assessing embryonic cracks development in structures under high‐cycle multiaxial random vibrations
Authors: Vantadori S. , Haynes R. , Fortese G. , Habtour E. , Ronchei C. , Scorza D. , Zanichelli A.
Published: June 2017

The myriad applicability of the frequency‐domain critical plane criterion is outlined in order to evaluate and track the progression of fatigue damage in metallic structures subjected to high‐cycle multiaxial random vibrations. The fatigue assessment using the given criterion is performed according to the following stages: (i) critical plane definition, (ii) power spectral density evaluation of an equivalent normal stress and (iii) computation of the damage precursor and fatigue life.

The frequency‐domain critical plane criterion is validated using experimental results related to (a) AISI 1095 steel cantilever beams under nonlinear base vibration, (b) 18G2A steel and (c) 10HNAP steel round specimens under random non‐proportional combined flexural and torsional loads.
Modelling the dynamic physical protection of soil organic carbon: Insights into carbon predictions and explanation of the priming effect
Authors: Luo Zhongkui , Baldock Jeff , Wang Enli
Published: June 2017

The role and significance of physically protected soil organic carbon (SOC) in regulating SOC dynamics remains unclear. Here, we developed a simple theoretical model (DP model) considering dynamic physical protection to simulate the dynamics of protected (Cp) and unprotected SOC (Cu), and compared the modelling results with a conventional two‐pool (fast vs. slow) model considering chemical recalcitrance. The two models were first constrained using extensive SOC data collected from soils with and without fresh carbon (C) inputs under incubation conditions, and then applied to project SOC dynamics and explore mechanisms underpinning the priming effect (PE). Overall, both models explained more than 99% of the variances in observed SOC dynamics. The DP model predicted that Cp accounted for the majority of total SOC. As decomposition proceeds, the proportion of Cp reached >90% and kept relatively constant. Although the similar performance of the two models in simulating observed total SOC dynamics, their predictions of future SOC dynamics were divergent, challenging the predictions of widely used pool‐based models. The DP model also suggested alternative mechanisms underpinning the priming of SOC decomposition by fresh C inputs. The two‐pool model suggested that the PE was caused by the stimulated decomposition rates, especially for the slow recalcitrant pool, while the DP model suggested that the PE might be the combined consequence of stimulated Cu decomposition, the liberation of Cp to decomposition and the inhibition of the protection of unprotected SOC. The model‐data integration provided a new explanation for the PE, highlighting the importance of liberation of initially physically protected SOC to decomposition by new C inputs. Our model‐data integration demonstrated the importance of simulating physical protection processes for reliable SOC predictions, and provided new insights into mechanistic understanding of the priming effect.
Surgical treatment for advanced hepatocellular carcinoma with portal vein tumor thrombus
Authors: Sakamoto Kazuhiko , Nagano Hiroaki
Published: June 2017

The Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer staging system recommends a tyrosine kinase inhibitor (sorafenib) as standard therapy in advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients with portal vein tumor thrombus (PVTT). Sorafenib has been shown to prolong median overall survival (OS) by approximately 3 months in advanced HCC patients with PVTT (8.1 vs. 4.9 months). However, its clinical effectiveness is still controversial and standard treatment with sorafenib is not established in Japan. Surgical resection is considered a potentially curative treatment and provides an acceptable outcome for carefully selected patients. The surgical mortality rate in patients with PVTT who receive surgical resection ranges from 0% to 10%. The median survival time and 1‐year OS rate in HCC patients with PVTT who undergo surgical resection have been found to range from 8 to 22 months and 21.7% to 69.6%, respectively. But improvement in therapeutic outcome is difficult with surgical treatment alone. Combination treatment in conjunction with such methods as transarterial chemoembolization, hepatic artery infusion chemotherapy, and radiotherapy has been found to improve the prognosis (median survival time, 11.5–37 months; 1‐year OS rate, 46.8–100%). Yet, many problems remain, such as surgical indications and surgical techniques. After resolving these points, a multidisciplinary strategy based on surgical treatment should be established for advanced HCC with PVTT.
Priorities for methodological research on patient and public involvement in clinical trials: A modified Delphi process
Authors: Kearney Anna , Williamson Paula , Young Bridget , Bagley Heather , Gamble Carrol , Denegri Simon , Muir Delia , Simon Natalie A. , Thomas Stephen , Elliot Jim T. , Bulbeck Helen , Crocker Joanna C. , Planner Claire , Vale Claire , Clarke Mike , Sprosen Tim , Woolfall Kerry
Published: June 2017

Background

Despite increasing international interest, there is a lack of evidence about the most efficient, effective and acceptable ways to implement patient and public involvement (PPI) in clinical trials.

Objective

To identify the priorities of UK PPI stakeholders for methodological research to help resolve uncertainties about PPI in clinical trials.

Design

A modified Delphi process including a two round online survey and a stakeholder consensus meeting.

Participants

In total, 237 people registered of whom 219 (92%) completed the first round. One hundred and eighty‐seven of 219 (85%) completed the second; 25 stakeholders attended the consensus meeting.

Results

Round 1 of the survey comprised 36 topics; 42 topics were considered in round 2 and at the consensus meeting. Approximately 96% of meeting participants rated the top three topics as equally important. These were as follows: developing strong and productive working relationships between researchers and PPI contributors; exploring PPI practices in selecting trial outcomes of importance to patients; and a systematic review of PPI activity to improve the accessibility and usefulness of trial information (eg participant information sheets) for participants.

Conclusions

The prioritized methodological research topics indicate important areas of uncertainty about PPI in trials. Addressing these uncertainties will be critical to enhancing PPI. Our findings should be used in the planning and funding of PPI in clinical trials to help focus research efforts and minimize waste.
Focal β‐catenin mutation identified on formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded inflammatory hepatocellular adenomas
Authors: Saldarriaga Joan , Bisig Bettina , Couchy Gabrielle , Castain Claire , Zucman‐Rossi Jessica , Balabaud Charles , Sempoux Christine , Bioulac‐Sage Paulette
Published: June 2017

The identification of hepatocellular adenoma (HCA) with mutation in exon 3 of the CTNNB1 gene encoding for β‐catenin is clinically relevant due to a higher risk of malignant transformation. Inflammatory HCA (IHCA) can exhibit β‐catenin activation (β‐IHCA). We report two cases with multiple IHCA in which focal β‐catenin activation has been found in one of the IHCA. In both cases, the diagnosis of IHCA was confirmed on the resected nodules by routine stains, immunohistochemical detection of C‐reactive protein (CRP) and molecular biology on frozen material. An additional molecular analysis was performed on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded (FFPE) material that showed focal glutamine synthetase (GS) staining, the surrogate marker of β‐catenin activation. In case 1, it was a 1.8‐cm area within the 7.5 cm IHCA, and in case 2 a small 0.3‐cm area within a 1.8 cm resected IHCA located close to a larger IHCA, negative for GS. In both cases, nuclear β‐catenin expression and decreased reticulin network were observed in the GS expressing foci, together with cholestasis and diffuse CD34 expression in case 1. Molecular analysis by pyrosequencing on FFPE material using the GS‐stained slides as reference to select areas with/without positive staining revealed a CTNNB1 exon 3 mutation restricted to the areas exhibiting both positive GS and CRP expression, whereas wild‐type CTNNB1 was found in areas showing only CRP staining. These two cases illustrate focal β‐catenin activation that can occur within IHCAs. Additional data are needed to determine if β‐catenin mutation is a secondary event in IHCA.
Supportive periodontal treatment: Pocket depth changes and tooth loss
Authors: De Wet LM , Slot DE , Van der Weijden GA
Published: June 2017

Aim

The purpose of this retrospective study was to determine the results of 10 years of supportive periodontal treatment(SPT) following active periodontal therapy(APT). Probing pocket depth(PPD), bleeding on probing(BOP), tooth loss(TL)and the effects of two patient‐related factors, smoking and gender were evaluated.

Methods

This retrospective study examined patients who underwent APT and SPT for adult periodontitis. Analyses were conducted using site‐, tooth‐ and patient‐level information. Mean values were calculated, and parametric and nonparametric analyses were conducted as appropriate to assess the results of APT and SPT.

Results

There was a significant improvement in BOP and PPD after APT. After 10 years, 9.3% of the patients adhered to the SPT protocol. The improvement in BOP and PPD was maintained, with no additional improvement in the clinical parameters at the 10‐year follow‐up. Furthermore, differences between non‐smokers and smokers were found. After the 10‐year follow‐up, smokers had a significantly higher percentage of sites with a PPD of 4 mm or higher; the mean PPD was also significantly higher in smokers. A significant difference was also found between males and females during SPT for the percentage of sites with BOP and the percentage of sites with a PPD≥6 mm. A minority of patients(18.5%) did not lose teeth, and it was found that molars are the teeth most likely to be lost. The mean number of teeth lost was 2.6 during 10‐year follow‐up.

Conclusion

This study indicates that with regard to bleeding on probing and probing pocket depth, patients receiving supportive periodontal treatment maintain their periodontal condition. However, in this group of adherent maintenance patients, tooth loss was most prevalent for molar teeth.
Effects of different thawing methods on the quality of chicken breast
Authors: Zhang Xin , Gao Tian , Song Lei , Zhang Lin , Jiang Yun , Li Jiao‐long , Gao Feng , Zhou Guang‐hong
Published: June 2017

Freezing and thawing technologies are widely used in meat industry. This study aimed to investigate the effects of freezing and different thawing methods (Control group, CG; water immersing thawing, WT; low temperature combined with high‐humidity thawing, LT; combined thawing 1 (WT 15 min, then LT), CT1; combined thawing 2 (LT 2 h, then WT), CT2) on the quality of chicken breast. The results showed that all thawing methods significantly increased shear force value, the gap between muscle fibres, the contents of malondialdehyde (MDA) and carbonyl compounds, meanwhile, decreased the pH, CIE a* value, total protein solubility and sarcoplasmic protein solubility, compared with CG (P < 0.05). Among different thawing methods, LT was most effective in decreasing thawing loss but it had the highest contents of MDA and carbonyl compounds (P < 0.05). CT1 significantly decreased shear force value and MDA content (P < 0.05). Overall, freezing and thawing process had a detrimental effect on the quality of chicken breast, and the extent was pronounced with different thawing methods. On the basis of shortening thawing time and keeping meat quality, the results of this study suggested that CT1 could be chosen as the better thawing method.
A comparative assess of high hydrostatic pressure and superfine grinding on physicochemical and antioxidant properties of grape pomace
Authors: Sheng Kangliang , Qu Hao , Liu Changhong , Yan Ling , You Ju , Shui Shanshan , Zheng Lei
Published: June 2017

In this study, we evaluate the effects of high hydrostatic pressure (HHP) and superfine grinding (SFG) treatment on grape pomace. The results showed that the HHP treatment improved physicochemical and antioxidant properties of grape pomace than the SFG treatment did. Moreover, the results of SEM indicated that the HHP‐treated grape pomace turned to have more lamellar structure, resulting in more hydrophilic groups exposed to improve WRC, WSC and SDF content. The results of FT‐IR spectra indicated that the main components and chemical structure of grape pomace after processing did not significantly change. Therefore, the HHP treatment had better effect in improving the functionality of grape pomace than that of the SFG treatment. The grape pomace treated by the appropriate processing methods could be used as functional foods.
microRNA cluster 106a~363 is involved in T helper 17 cell differentiation
Authors: Kästle Marc , Bartel Sabine , Geillinger‐Kästle Kerstin , Irmler Martin , Beckers Johannes , Ryffel Bernhard , Eickelberg Oliver , Krauss‐Etschmann Susanne
Published: June 2017

T‐helper cell type 17 (Th17) mediated inflammation is associated with various diseases including autoimmune encephalitis, inflammatory bowel disease and lung diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and asthma. Differentiation into distinct T helper subtypes needs to be tightly regulated to ensure an immunological balance. As microRNAs (miRNAs) are critical regulators of signalling pathways, we aimed to identify specific miRNAs implicated in controlling Th17 differentiation. We were able to create a regulatory network model of murine T helper cell differentiation by combining Affymetrix mRNA and miRNA arrays and in silico analysis. In this model, the miR‐212~132 and miR‐182~183 clusters were significantly up‐regulated upon Th17 differentiation, whereas the entire miR‐106~363 cluster was down‐regulated and predicted to target well‐known Th17 cell differentiation pathways. In vitro transfection of miR‐18b, miR‐106a and miR‐363‐3p into primary murine Cd4+ lymphocytes decreased expression of retinoid‐related orphan receptor c (Rorc), Rora, Il17a and Il17f, and abolished secretion of Th17‐mediated interleukin‐17a (Il17a). Moreover, we demonstrated target site‐specific regulation of the Th17 transcription factors Rora and nuclear factor of activated T cells (Nfat) 5 by miR‐18b, miR‐106a and miR‐363‐3p through luciferase reporter assays. Here, we provide evidence that miRNAs are involved in controlling the differentiation and function of T helper cells, offering useful tools to study and modify Th17‐mediated inflammation.
Risk factors that influence sexual and reproductive health in Portuguese university students
Authors: Santos M.J. , Ferreira E. , Duarte J. , Ferreira M.
Published: June 2017

Background

University students have unprotected sex and associate alcohol and/or drugs with sexual practices. These behaviours are risk factors for influencing sexual and reproductive health that can be targeted by nursing interventions.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine the risk and protective factors influencing sexual and reproductive risk‐taking behaviours in university students.

Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional and correlational study in a sample of 1946 students. Data were collected using a self‐report questionnaire on the individual, environmental, cognitive and psychosocial factors related to knowledge of sexually transmitted infections, attitude for sexual and reproductive health, subjective norms, Condom Use Self‐Efficacy and Sexual Sensation Seeking scales.

Results

Older male students were at higher risk for all risk behaviours studied. Students involved in committed relationships were at risk because of decreased condom use. Individuals who placed high importance on sexual sensation seeking were at increased risk. The higher the importance students placed on peers’ opinion, the more protective their behaviours were.

Conclusion

The results of this study showed that university students are exposed to sexual risks. Individual, cognitive and psychosocial factors influence the risk‐taking behaviours.

Implications for nursing and health policy

The findings of this study should be further incorporated into health care with nurses’ leadership, adapting healthcare services to the specific needs of this population and promoting educational programmes.
Mouthpart morphology and feeding behavior of the invasive kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria (Hemiptera: Plataspidae)
Authors: Stubbins Francesca L. , Mitchell Paula Levin , Turnbull Matthew W. , Reay‐Jones Francis P. F. , Greene Jeremy K.
Published: June 2017

The invasive kudzu bug, Megacopta cribraria, was first reported in North America in 2009 and has subsequently spread through most of the southeastern United States, causing yield loss in soybean. Since detection in the USA, research has focused mainly on managing this newly established pest, but many important characteristics of the pest's mouthpart morphology and feeding behavior are unknown. Qualitative and quantitative comparisons of nymph and adult mouthparts and sensilla were made through scanning electron microscopy and light microscopy, and feeding behavior was examined using electropenetrography (EPG) and paraffin histology. Morphologies observed were similar to what has previously been reported for other piercing–sucking hemipterans. The relationship between rostrum length and body size (pronotum width and dorsal length) exhibited negative allometry. Rostrum length exhibited an isometric relationship with interocular width. Adult females (n=9) probed soybean stems 1.3±0.8 times in 9 h, with an average probe time of 2.3±1.3 h. EPG waveforms were characterized and correlated with behavior. Salivary sheaths were shown to terminate in the vascular tissue; four of five sheaths terminated in the phloem. This is the first time that the feeding behavior of a member of the Plataspidae has been recorded using EPG. Results add to our current limited knowledge of plataspid mouthpart morphology and provide a baseline for further research on the feeding behaviors of M. cribraria and other soybean‐feeding hemipterans.
Intracellular actions of gonadotropic and peptide hormones and the therapeutic value of GnRH‐agonists in ovarian cancer
Authors: Emons Günter , Ortmann Olaf , Pahwa Gurcharan S. , Hackenberg Reinhard , Oberheuser F. , Schulz K.‐D.
Published: June 2017

During the last two decades, considerable experimental evidence has been collected indicating that epithelial ovarian cancer might be gonadotropin dependent. LH and FSH receptors have been described in some of these tumors. The proliferation of ovarian cancer cells could be stimulated in vitro by gonadotropins. Suppression of endogenous LH and FSH secretion by GnRH‐agonist treatment inhibited the growth of experimental or heterotransplanted ovarian cancers in various animal models. A number of recent phase II clinical trials have shown that the application of GnRH‐agonists can lead to remission or stable disease in patients with relapsed advanced ovarian cancer. At present, prospective controlled clinical studies are being performed to assess the efficacy of GnRH‐agonist treatment in addition to conventional surgical and cytostatic therapy in ovarian cancer in FIGO stages III and IV. Also, direct effects of GnRH analogues on ovarian cancer seem possible: a GnRH‐like protein has been found in the human ovary. Our group discovered and partially characterized a specific GnRH‐binding site (mol. wt 63.2 kDa) in ovarian cancer which is very similar to other human extrapituitary GnRH‐binding sites of the low affinity, high capacity type, e.g. in breast cancer or the placenta. Recently, other groups have described also high affinity GnRH‐agonist binding sites in ovarian cancer as well as in other extrapituitary tissues. First results from our laboratory indicate that the proliferation of certain ovarian cancer cell lines in vitro is reduced by both agonistic and antagonistic analogues of GnRH. Other authors were able to inhibit gonadotropin‐induced in vitro proliferation of ovarian cancer cell lines by co‐incubation with a GnRH‐agonist. Thus GnRH ‐ or a related compound ‐ might act as an autocrine regulator of ovarian cancer proliferation, a finding which might be useful for the development of new therapeutic approaches.
Role of chemotherapy in the future treatment of ovarian cancer
Authors: Ozols Robert F.
Published: June 2017

Platinum‐based chemotherapy has led to an improvement in complete response rates and duration of median remission, but has only given a modest improvement in overall survival in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. Chemotherapy will in the future focus upon: (1) improving the complete remission rate with new induction regimens; (2) identifying strategies capable of converting partial remission into complete remission; (3) preventing or delaying recurrences in patients who do achieve a complete remission; (4) identifying mechanisms of antineoplastic drug resistance and pharmacologic techniques capable of reversing drug resistance. Among the treatment approaches being utilized are high‐dose chemotherapy with autologous bone marrow transplantation, development of new chemotherapeutic regimens which include Taxol and hexamethylmelamine, and intraperitoneal chemotherapy. In addition, our understanding of the mechanisms of antineoplastic drug resistance has led to the development of novel therapeutic approaches. It has been demonstrated that resistance to platinum and alkylating agents is associated with both increased concentrations of cellular glutathione (GSH) as well as an increased capacity of tumor cells to repair damage to DNA. Inhibition of GSH biosynthesis with buthionine sulfoximine (BSO), a synthetic inhibitor of the enzyme gamma glutamyl cysteine synthetase, has led to the potentiation of alkylating agent activity in vitro and in vivo. A phase I trial of BSO plus melphalan is currently in progress and a trial of BSO plus carboplatin is planned. Inhibition of the DNA repair process with aphid‐icolin potentiates the cytotoxicity of cisplatin in drug‐resistant tumor cells. Clinical trials of aphidicolin plus cisplatin await the completion of ongoing phase I trials of aphidicolin.
Inhibin as a marker for granulosa cell tumor
Authors: Lappöhn Richard E. , Burger Henry G. , Bouma Joke , Bangah Mohan , Krans Mindert
Published: June 2017

In order to determine whether serum‐immunoreactive inhibin could constitute a biochemical marker for the presence and progression of ovarian granulosa cell tumors and their metastases, we measured immunoreactive inhibin concentrations in series of serum samples obtained from 8 patients with granulosa cell tumor. Six series were tested in retrospect. From these, three came from patients who had been treated with an abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo‐oophorectomy. In the 2 patients with residual or recurrent disease, inhibin was elevated, 4 and 20 months respectively before clinical manifestations of recurrence became evident; it reflected the effects of secondary therapy. Inhibin remained undetectable in one patient who was free of disease during 11 years of follow‐up. Inhibin concentrations were also inappropriately increased in 2 of 3 women with amenorrhea and infertility resulting from small granulosa cell tumors. After removal, inhibin concentrations became normal and fertility resumed. Fertility also returned in the third patient. There was a significant negative correlation between the serum inhibin and FSH concentrations, consistent with autonomous production of inhibin by granulosa cell tumors. It is concluded that granulosa cell tumors have the capacity to produce inhibin. In retrospect, inhibin proved to be a marker for both primary and also recurrent and residual disease.
Prognostic indices in ovarian cancer
Authors: Swenerton Kenneth D.
Published: June 2017

Ovarian cancer exhibits a wide spectrum of behavior, the effectiveness of therapies varies and the circumstances of patients differ. Better outcomes will require more selective treatment strategies considerate of these variables.

The need for treatment As long as outcome is affected more by disease than by treatment, survival will be determined by the bulk and growth‐rate of residual tumor ‐ prognostic factors reflect these. They indicate the need for treatment, but not whether benefit is likely. FIGO stage is the international standard, but this alone is inadequately predictive. Grade reflects virulence, but subjectivity has limited its usefulness. Newer quantitative pathology techniques (such as DNA ploidy) more reproducibly reflect behavior. Prognostic factors can be used to define subsets of patients at differing degrees of disease risk.

Efficacy of treatment No response predictors are yet of practical use in selecting primary chemotherapy on an individual basis. Generally, response is more likely if the tumor is less extensive and if dose and treatment frequency are higher. Monitoring biomarkers can more quickly identify those with a suboptimal response who may require a change or discontinuation of treatment. Re‐laparotomy has limited usefulness. Response predictors for second‐line treatment (e.g. the failure‐free interval) are available and also have implications for new drug testing.

Suitability of treatment Advanced age or serious additional illness may render intensive treatment inappropriate. The informed patient's wishes are of prime importance.

An evolving strategy of selective management is described.
What do CA 125 and other antigens tell us about ovarian cancer biology?
Authors: Welander Charles E.
Published: June 2017

CA 125 is an antigenic determinant on a high molecular weight glycoprotein. A monoclonal antibody has been produced which recognizes this, and allows us to measure the expression of CA 125 in serum. Tissue distribution of the CA 125 determinant is most commonly seen in serous tumors of the ovary, with highest levels in borderline and frankly malignant serous cystadenocarcinomas. Occasionally cancers of the breast, gastrointestinal tract, and kidney will show elevated levels of CA 125. Normal tissues which show varying levels of CA 125 include decidual tissue and structures derived from celomic epithelium. CA 125 is clearly tumor associated, but not tumor specific. Quantitative correlation of CA 125 levels with tumor volume has not been demonstrated. This observation limits the clinical usefulness of CA 125 as a screening tool, particularly in premenopausal patients who do not have a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. An undetectable level of CA 125 antigen does not rule out the presence of an early ovarian cancer. When CA 125 is used to monitor disease state in patients with known ovarian cancers (whose tumors do express CA 125), changes in levels of CA 125 do correlate with gross changes in tumor volume. Good prognostic significance is attributed to a rapid decline in CA 125 levels following induction chemotherapy in patients with advanced ovarian cancer. However, an undetectable serum level of CA 125 does not predict clinical cure for a patient with ovarian cancer. Further clinical studies continue in the use of CA 125 as a screening tool and as a means to monitor treatment responses of known ovarian cancer.
Ensuring Impact: Thought Leadership in Logistics and Supply Chain Research
Authors: Zinn Walter , Goldsby Thomas J.
Published: June 2017

Achieving impact in research is the goal of any singular article and for the journal, in total. This editorial helps to define how impact in scholarship and practice is achieved in the Journal of Business Logistics. We encourage scholars to “get out ahead” of practice by identifying problems that truly matter to industry and to conduct those inquiries using state‐of‐the‐art methods, such that relevance, rigor, and impact are fully realized.
Understanding web activity patterns among teachers, students and teacher candidates
Authors: Kimmons R. , Clark B. , Lim M.
Published: June 2017

This study sought to understand generational and role differences in web usage of teachers, teacher candidates and K–12 students in a state in the USA (n = 2261). The researchers employed unique methods, which included using a custom‐built persistent web browser to track user behaviours free of self‐report, self‐selection and perception bias. Results revealed that all three groups utilized a variety of resources daily, but with some noticeable differences. For instance, (1) teachers and teacher candidates used the Internet on school devices much more than students; (2) they accessed general, multimedia, search, entertainment, shopping and social resources at a higher rate than students; (3) students visited a higher proportion of educational websites than their teachers; and (4) teachers visited a higher proportion of search pages than teacher candidates. Results may be useful for researchers (1) to better understand generational differences between groups; (2) to expand educational technology research to better include non‐pedagogical support tools for educators; and (3) to serve as a counterpoint for self‐report data on web resource frequency of use, which may provide different results.
The Non‐Canonical Substrates of Trypanosoma cruzi Tyrosine and Aspartate Aminotransferases: Branched‐Chain Amino Acids
Authors: Manchola Nubia Carolina , Silber Ariel Mariano , Nowicki Cristina
Published: June 2017

Trypanosoma cruzi, the etiological agent of Chagas disease, lacks genes that encode canonical branched‐chain aminotransferases. However, early studies showed that when epimastigotes were grown in the presence of 14C1‐DL‐leucine, the label was incorporated into various intermediates. More recently, our studies provided evidence that T. cruzi epimastigotes display a single ATP‐dependent and saturable transport system that enables epimastigotes to uptake branched‐chain amino acids (BCAAs) from the culture media. To extend our knowledge of the first step of BCAA catabolism, the ability of this parasite's noncanonical broad specificity aminotransferases, such as tyrosine aminotransferase (TAT) and aspartate aminotransferase (ASAT), to transaminate these amino acids was investigated. Indeed, our results show that TAT and ASAT utilize BCAAs as substrates; however, both enzymes differ in their catalytic competence in utilizing these amino donors. For instance, ASAT transaminates isoleucine nearly 10‐fold more efficiently than does TAT. This unique characteristic of TAT and ASAT allows to explain how BCAAs can be oxidized in the absence of a BCAA transaminase in T. cruzi.
Correlation between serum galectin‐9 levels and liver fibrosis
Authors: Fujita Koji , Niki Toshiro , Nomura Takako , Oura Kyoko , Tadokoro Tomoko , Sakamoto Teppei , Tani Joji , Yoneyama Hirohito , Morishita Asahiro , Kuroda Noriyuki , Arai Takeshi , Nishimoto Naoki , Himoto Takashi , Hirashima Mitsuomi , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: June 2017

Background and Aim

Chronic liver diseases progress from chronic inflammation to fibrosis to tumorigenesis. Galectin‐9, a β‐galactoside‐specific animal lectin, is indicated to contribute to all three steps of progression. The aim of this study was to determine which of the three steps was most dominant in elevating the serum galectin‐9 concentration and to test the possibility of galectin‐9 as a serum biomarker.

Methods

Japanese patients with chronic hepatitis, liver cirrhosis, hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease, or alcoholic liver disease who provided informed consent were enrolled in this study. Serum galectin‐9 levels were measured using a sandwich ELISA. Multiple regression analyses were performed using ezr to identify factors that determined serum galectin‐9 concentration.

Results

One hundred one patients with 50 of chronic hepatitis and 51 of liver cirrhosis were enrolled; the cohort included 45 cases of hepatitis C virus infection, 13 cases of hepatitis B virus infection, and 46 cases with HCC‐related complications. The median serum galectin‐9 concentration was 77.54 pg/mL (interquartile range: 18.89–241.9 pg/mL). Multiple linear regression analyses proved Fibrosis‐4 index and aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index, indexes of liver fibrosis, were able to predict the serum galectin‐9 levels with statistical significance. A multiple logistic regression analysis determined 10 pg/mL increase in the serum galectin‐9 concentration presented an odds ratio of 3.90 for liver fibrosis progression.

Conclusions

The serum galectin‐9 concentration represents a potential biomarker of liver fibrosis in patients with chronic liver diseases, regardless of chronic inflammation or the presence of HCC complications. Furthermore, higher serum galectin‐9 levels are a predictor for liver fibrosis progression.
Factors contributing to serious adverse events in nursing homes
Authors: Andersson Åsa , Frank Catharina , Willman Ania ML , Sandman Per‐Olof , Hansebo Görel
Published: June 2017

Aims and objectives

To identify the most common serious adverse events that occurred in nursing homes and their most frequent contributing factors to the improvement of safe nursing care.

Background

There is a need to improve safe nursing care in nursing homes. Residents are often frail and vulnerable with extensive needs for nursing care. A relatively minor adverse event in nursing care can cause serious injury that could have been preventable.

Design

This was a retrospective study, with a total sample of data regarding adverse events (n = 173) in nursing homes, concerning nursing care reported by healthcare providers in Sweden to the Health and Social Care Inspectorate. The reports were analysed with content analysis, and the frequencies of the adverse events, and their contributing factors, were described with descriptive statistics.

Results

Medication errors, falls, delayed or inappropriate intervention and missed nursing care contributed to the vast majority (89%) of the serious adverse events. A total of 693 possible contributing factors were identified. The most common contributing factors were (i) lack of competence, (ii) incomplete or lack of documentation, (iii) teamwork failure and (iv) inadequate communication.

Conclusions

The contributing factors frequently interacted yet they varied between different groups of serious adverse events. The resident's safety depends on the availability of staff's competence as well as adequate documentation about the resident's condition. Lack of competence was underestimated by healthcare providers.

Relevance to clinical practice

Registered nurses and assistant nurses need to have awareness of contributing factors to adverse events in nursing care. A holistic approach to improve patient safety in nursing homes requires competence of the staff, safe environments as well as resident's and relative's participation.
Open visitation and nurse job satisfaction: An integrative review
Authors: Monroe Marissa , Wofford Linda
Published: June 2017

Aims and objectives

To explore the effect of open visitation on critical care nurse job satisfaction.

Background

Open visitation has many benefits for ICU patients and families. However, ICU open visitation also affects nurses’ work environment. Because nurse satisfaction is crucial to overall patient satisfaction, nurses’ perceptions, experiences and opinions about open visitation should be considered.

Design

A literature search was performed through CINAHL Complete, MEDLINE Complete, PubMed, ScienceDirect, Academic Search Premier and PsychINFO.

Methods

Key terms, inclusion criteria and exclusion criteria were applied. Duplicates and articles focusing on family presence during end of life care were excluded. Articles were evaluated for data quality, resulting in 14 articles.

Results

Family presence can negatively affect nurses’ workflow and environment. Nurses report a loss of control, interruptions in care and increased workloads with open visitation. Therefore, nurses prefer restricted visitation.

Conclusions

The literature evidence encourages visitation policies that support nurses in managing the additional work and stress of meeting patient and family needs. Implementation of evidence‐based strategies to support nursing staff in stressful ICU environments can improve job satisfaction.

Relevance to clinical practice

The conclusions of this integrative review can be utilized by hospitals considering or implementing ICU open visitation