bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Purification of Polysomes
Authors: Rivera Maria C. , Maguire Bruce , Lake James A.
Published: March 2015

Isolated polysomes (also known as translating ribosomes or polyribosomes) are mRNA–ribosome complexes that are frequently used for the in vitro study of the regulation of protein synthesis. Here we describe a protocol for the isolation of prokaryotic and plant polysomes by sucrose gradient sedimentation. The protocol allows for the separation of multiple ribosomes attached to mRNA from run-off ribosome monomers. In addition to collecting the polysome pellet, if the sucrose gradients used in this protocol are fractionated, it is possible to isolate and quantify the polysomes, the ribosome monomers, and the ribosomal subunits.
Evaluating the Activity of the Filamentous Growth Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase Pathway in Yeast
Authors: Cullen Paul J.
Published: March 2015

Mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways are evolutionarily conserved signaling pathways that regulate diverse processes in eukaryotes. One such pathway regulates filamentous growth, a nutrient limitation response in budding yeast and other fungal species. This protocol describes three assays used to measure the activity of the filamentous growth pathway. First, western blotting for phosphorylated (activated) MAPKs (P∼MAPKs; Slt2p, Kss1p, Fus3p, and Hog1p) provides a measure of MAPK activity in yeast and other fungal species. Second, the PGU1 gene is a transcriptional target of the filamentous growth pathway. Cells that undergo filamentous growth secrete Pgu1p, an endopolygalacturonase that degrades the plant-specific polysaccharide pectin. We describe an assay that measures secreted pectinase activity, which reflects an active filamentous growth pathway. Finally, in yeast, two mucin-like glycoproteins, Msb2 and Flo11, regulate filamentous growth. Secretion of the processed and shed glycodomain of Msb2 is an indicator of MAPK activity. Flo11, the major adhesion molecule that controls filamentous growth and biofilm/mat formation, is also shed from cells. Detecting shed mucins with epitope-tagged versions of the proteins (secretion profiling) provides information about the regulation of filamentous growth across fungal species.
The Estrogen Receptor Fusion System in Mouse Models: A Reversible Switch
Authors: Whitfield Jonathan , Littlewood Trevor , Evan Gerard I. , Soucek Laura
Published: March 2015

Reversible regulatory mouse models have significantly contributed to our understanding of normal tissue and cancer biology, providing the opportunity to temporally control initiation, progression, and evolution of physiological and pathological events. The tamoxifen inducible system, one of the best-characterized “reversible switch” models, has a number of beneficial features. In this system, the hormone-binding domain of the mammalian estrogen receptor is used as a heterologous regulatory domain. Upon ligand binding, the receptor is released from its inhibitory complex and the fusion protein becomes functional. We summarize the advantages and drawbacks of the system, describe several mouse models that rely on it, and discuss potential improvements that could render it even more useful and versatile.
Coordinated Rates of Evolution between Interacting Plastid and Nuclear Genes in Geraniaceae
Authors: Zhang Jin , Ruhlman Tracey A. , Sabir Jamal , Blazier J. Chris , Jansen Robert K.
Published: February 2015

Although gene coevolution has been widely observed within individuals and between different organisms, rarely has this phenomenon been investigated within a phylogenetic framework. The Geraniaceae is an attractive system in which to study plastid-nuclear genome coevolution due to the highly elevated evolutionary rates in plastid genomes. In plants, the plastid-encoded RNA polymerase (PEP) is a protein complex composed of subunits encoded by both plastid (rpoA, rpoB, rpoC1, and rpoC2) and nuclear genes (sig1-6). We used transcriptome and genomic data for 27 species of Geraniales in a systematic evaluation of coevolution between genes encoding subunits of the PEP holoenzyme. We detected strong correlations of dN (nonsynonymous substitutions) but not dS (synonymous substitutions) within rpoB/sig1 and rpoC2/sig2, but not for other plastid/nuclear gene pairs, and identified the correlation of dN/dS ratio between rpoB/C1/C2 and sig1/5/6, rpoC1/C2 and sig2, and rpoB/C2 and sig3 genes. Correlated rates between interacting plastid and nuclear sequences across the Geraniales could result from plastid-nuclear genome coevolution. Analyses of coevolved amino acid positions suggest that structurally mediated coevolution is not the major driver of plastid-nuclear coevolution. The detection of strong correlation of evolutionary rates between SIG and RNAP genes suggests a plausible explanation for plastome-genome incompatibility in Geraniaceae.
Regulation of plasmid‐encoded isoprene metabolism in Rhodococcus, a representative of an important link in the global isoprene cycle
Authors: Crombie Andrew T. , Khawand Myriam El , Rhodius Virgil A. , Fengler Kevin A. , Miller Michael C. , Whited Gregg M. , McGenity Terry J. , Murrell J. Colin
Published: February 2015

Emissions of biogenic volatile organic compounds (VOCs) form an important part of the global carbon cycle, comprising a significant proportion of net ecosystem productivity. They impact atmospheric chemistry and contribute directly and indirectly to greenhouse gases. Isoprene, emitted largely from plants, comprises one third of total VOCs, yet in contrast to methane, which is released in similar quantities, we know little of its biodegradation. Here, we report the genome of an isoprene degrading isolate, Rhodococcus sp. AD45, and, using mutagenesis shows that a plasmid‐encoded soluble di‐iron centre isoprene monooxygenase (IsoMO) is essential for isoprene metabolism. Using RNA sequencing (RNAseq) to analyse cells exposed to isoprene or epoxyisoprene in a substrate‐switch time‐course experiment, we show that transcripts from 22 contiguous genes, including those encoding IsoMO, were highly upregulated, becoming among the most abundant in the cell and comprising over 25% of the entire transcriptome. Analysis of gene transcription in the wild type and an IsoMO‐disrupted mutant strain showed that epoxyisoprene, or a subsequent product of isoprene metabolism, rather than isoprene itself, was the inducing molecule. We provide a foundation of molecular data for future research on the environmental biological consumption of this important, climate‐active compound.
Metagenomic analysis of a high carbon dioxide subsurface microbial community populated by chemolithoautotrophs and bacteria and archaea from candidate phyla
Authors: Emerson Joanne B. , Thomas Brian C. , Alvarez Walter , Banfield Jillian F.
Published: February 2015

Research on geologic carbon sequestration raises questions about potential impacts of subsurface microbiota on carbon cycling and biogeochemistry. Subsurface, high‐CO2 systems are poorly biologically characterized, partly because of difficulty accessing high‐volume, uncontaminated samples. CO2‐driven Crystal Geyser (CG, Utah, USA), an established geologic carbon sequestration analogue, provides high volumes of deep (∼ 200–500 m) subsurface fluids. We explored microbial diversity and metabolic potential in this high‐CO2 environment by assembly and analysis of metagenomes recovered from geyser water filtrate. The system is dominated by neutrophilic, iron‐oxidizing bacteria, including ‘marine’ Mariprofundus (Zetaproteobacteria) and ‘freshwater’ Gallionellales, sulfur‐oxidizing Thiomicrospira crunogena and Thiobacillus‐like Hydrogenophilales. Near‐complete genomes were reconstructed for these bacteria. CG is notably populated by a wide diversity of bacteria and archaea from phyla lacking isolated representatives (candidate phyla) and from as‐yet undefined lineages. Many bacteria affiliate with OD1, OP3, OP9, PER, ACD58, WWE3, BD1‐5, OP11, TM7 and ZB2. The recovery of nearly 100 genes encoding ribulose‐1,5 bisphosphate carboxylase‐oxygenase subunit proteins of the Calvin cycle and AMP salvage pathways suggests a strong biological role in high‐CO2 subsurface carbon cycling. Overall, we predict microbial impacts on subsurface biogeochemistry via iron, sulfur, and complex carbon oxidation, carbon and nitrogen fixation, fermentation, hydrogen metabolism, and aerobic and anaerobic respiration.
Decoupled distance–decay patterns between dsrA and 16S rRNA genes among salt marsh sulfate‐reducing bacteria
Authors: Angermeyer Angus , Crosby Sarah C. , Huber Julie A.
Published: March 2015

In many habitats, microorganisms exhibit significant distance–decay patterns as determined by analysis of the 16S rRNA gene and various other genetic elements. However, there have been few studies that examine how the similarities of both taxonomic and functional genes co‐vary over geographic distance within a group of ecologically related microbes. Here, we determined the biogeographic patterns of the functional dissimilatory sulfite reductase gene (dsrA) and the 16S rRNA gene in sulfate‐reducing bacterial communities of US East Coast salt marsh sediments. Distance–decay, ordination and statistical analyses revealed that the distribution of 16S rRNA genes is strongly influenced by geographic distance and environmental factors, whereas the dsrA gene is not. Together, our results indicate that 16S rRNA genes are likely dispersal limited and under environmental selection, whereas dsrA genes appear randomly distributed and not selected for by any expected environmental variables. Selection, drift, dispersal and mutation are all factors that may help explain the decoupled biogeographic patterns for the two genes. These data suggest that both the taxonomic and functional elements of microbial communities should be considered in future studies of microbial biogeography to aid in our understanding of the diversity, distribution and function of microorganisms in the environment.
Physiological and genetic analyses reveal a mechanistic insight into the multifaceted lifestyles of Pseudoalteromonas sp. SM9913 adapted to the deep‐sea sediment
Authors: Mi Zi‐Hao , Yu Zi‐Chao , Su Hai‐Nan , Wang Lei , Chen Xiu‐Lan , Pang Xiuhua , Qin Qi‐Long , Xie Bin‐Bin , Zhang Xi‐Ying , Zhou Bai‐Cheng , Zhang Yu‐Zhong
Published: March 2015

Although bacteriobenthos play a major role in the degradation of particulate organic matter in marine sediment, knowledge of the sediment‐adapted lifestyles of bacteriobenthos is still scarce. Here, the particle‐associated, swimming and swarming lifestyles of the benthonic bacterium Pseudoalteromonas sp. SM9913 (SM9913) were illustrated. SM9913 had a clay particle‐associated lifestyle, and its exopolysaccharide played an important role in this lifestyle. SM9913 also had swimming and swarming motilities, indicating that it may have swimming and swarming lifestyles in the sediment. The lateral flagella were responsible for the swarming motility, and the polar flagella were responsible for the swimming motility. Iron limitation was an indispensable inductive signal of the swarming motility. An analysis of the motilities of SM9913 and its mutants in clay demonstrated that SM9913 moved in clay by both swimming and swarming motilities. Genomic analysis suggests that having two flagella systems is most likely a common adaptation of some bacteriobenthos to the sediment environment. Our results reveal the lifestyles of benthonic SM9913, providing a better understanding of the environmental adaptation of benthonic bacteria.
Disruption of photoautotrophic intertidal mats by filamentous fungi
Authors: Carreira Cátia , Staal Marc , Falkoski Daniel , de Vries Ronald P. , Middelboe Mathias , Brussaard Corina P. D.
Published: February 2015

Ring‐like structures, 2.0–4.8 cm in diameter, observed in photosynthetic microbial mats on the Wadden Sea island Schiermonnikoog (the Netherlands) showed to be the result of the fungus Emericellopsis sp. degrading the photoautotrophic top layer of the mat. The mats were predominantly composed of cyanobacteria and diatoms, with large densities of bacteria and viruses both in the top photosynthetic layer and in the underlying sediment. The fungal attack cleared the photosynthetic layer; however, no significant effect of the fungal lysis on the bacterial and viral abundances could be detected. Fungal‐mediated degradation of the major photoautotrophs could be reproduced by inoculation of non‐infected mat with isolated Emericellopsis sp., and with an infected ring sector. Diatoms were the first re‐colonizers followed closely by cyanobacteria that after about 5 days dominated the space. The study demonstrated that the fungus Emericellopsis sp. efficiently degraded a photoautotrophic microbial mat, with potential implications for mat community composition, spatial structure and productivity.
Identification of 2‐(ethylamino)‐1‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐1‐pentanone (4‐MEAP), a New “Legal High” Sold by an Internet Vendor as 4‐Methyl Pentedrone
Authors: Hamby Danielle , Burnett Annessa , Jablonsky Michael , Twamley Brendan , Kavanagh Pierce V. , Gardner Elizabeth A.
Published: February 2015

Online vendors are offering a new legal high, 4‐methylpentedrone (4‐MPD). Information for potential users provided by internet vendors of 4‐MPD includes incorrect structures and nonexistent CAS numbers. A sample of 4‐MPD was obtained and analyzed using GC‐MS, NMR, and LC‐EIS. The fragmentation data from the GC‐MS and LC‐EIS produced an M‐1 ion that suggested the molecular mass was 219 amu, rather than 205 amu as calculated for 4‐methylpentedrone. The difference in molecular mass corresponded to the addition of a methyl group. Based on the mass and fragmentation pattern, two standards were synthesized, 2‐(ethylamino)‐1‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐1‐pentanone and 1‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐2‐(propylamino)‐1‐butanone. The synthesis involved bromination of the appropriate ketone followed by the reaction with ethylamine or propylamine. Based on the NMR data and unique fragmentation patterns produced by these molecules, the sample was identified as 2‐(ethylamino)‐1‐(4‐methylphenyl)‐1‐pentanone, not 4‐methylpentedrone.
Isolated ventriculomegaly on prenatal ultrasound: What does fetal MRI add?
Authors: Kandula Tejaswi , Fahey Michael , Chalmers Rebecca , Edwards Andrew , Shekleton Paul , Teoh Mark , Clark Jenni , Goergen Stacy K.
Published: March 2015

Introduction

Cerebral ventriculomegaly is one of the most commonly detected fetal anomalies at the midtrimester ultrasound. Current evidence suggests that magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is indicated when the isolated ventriculomegaly (IVM) on ultrasound is severe (>15 mm), but there is less agreement when IVM is mild or moderate (10–15 mm). The current study aimed to determine the frequency and nature of additional findings on MRI in IVM and their relationship to the severity of VM and gestational age.

Methods

Data were gathered prospectively from all pregnant women with ultrasound‐diagnosed IVM referred for MRI between November 2006 and February 2013. Cases with IVM and no other suspected cranial abnormality on a tertiary ultrasound performed at our institution, at or after 20 weeks gestation, were included.

Results

Of the 59 fetuses with unilateral or bilateral IVM, additional findings were seen on MRI in 10 cases (17%) and half of these findings were identified in fetuses with mild IVM. Five of 40 (12.5%) fetuses with mild IVM had additional findings and 3/5 (60%) were potentially clinically significant. No additional abnormalities were identified in fetuses less than or equal to 24 weeks gestation with mild or moderate IVM. There was no statistically significant relationship between gestational age and additional findings on MRI in mild IVM. Callosal and septum pellucidum lesions, periventricular abnormalities and malformations of cortical development accounted for all of the significant additional findings.

Conclusion

This study helps to inform referral of pregnant women with a fetus who has IVM for prenatal MRI.
Early‐life establishment of the swine gut microbiome and impact on host phenotypes
Authors: Mach Núria , Berri Mustapha , Estellé Jordi , Levenez Florence , Lemonnier Gaëtan , Denis Catherine , Leplat Jean‐Jacques , Chevaleyre Claire , Billon Yvon , Doré Joël , Rogel‐Gaillard Claire , Lepage Patricia
Published: March 2015

Early bacterial colonization and succession within the gastrointestinal tract has been suggested to be crucial in the establishment of specific microbiota composition and the shaping of host phenotype. Here, the composition and dynamics of faecal microbiomes were studied for 31 healthy piglets across five age strata (days 14, 36, 48, 60 and 70 after birth) together with their mothers. Faecal microbiome composition was assessed by 16S rRNA gene 454‐pyrosequencing. Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes were the predominant phyla present at each age. For all piglets, luminal secretory IgA concentration was measured at day 70, and body weight was recorded until day 70. The microbiota of suckling piglets was mainly represented by Bacteroides, Oscillibacter, Escherichia/Shigella, Lactobacillus and unclassified Ruminococcaceae genera. This pattern contrasted with that of Acetivibrio, Dialister, Oribacterium, Succinivibrio and Prevotella genera, which appeared increased after weaning. Lactobacillus fermentum might be vertically transferred via breast milk or faeces. The microbiota composition coevolved with their hosts towards two different clusters after weaning, primarily distinguished by unclassified Ruminococcaceae and Prevotella abundances. Prevotella was positively correlated with luminal secretory IgA concentrations, and body weight. Our study opens up new possibilities for health and feed efficiency manipulation via genetic selection and nutrition in the agricultural domain.
Understanding diversity patterns in bacterioplankton communities from a sub‐Antarctic peatland
Authors: Quiroga María Victoria , Valverde Angel , Mataloni Gabriela , Cowan Don
Published: March 2015

Bacterioplankton communities inhabiting peatlands have the potential to influence local ecosystem functions. However, most microbial ecology research in such wetlands has been done in ecosystems (mostly peat soils) of the Northern Hemisphere, and very little is known of the factors that drive bacterial community assembly in other regions of the world. In this study, we used high‐throughput sequencing to analyse the structure of the bacterial communities in five pools located in a sub‐Antarctic peat bog (Tierra del Fuego, Argentina), and tested for relationships between bacterial communities and environmental conditions. Bacterioplankton communities in peat bog pools were diverse and dominated by members of the Proteobacteria, Actinobacteria, Bacteroidetes and Verrucomicrobia. Community structure was largely explained by differences in hydrological connectivity, pH and nutrient status (ombrotrophic versus minerotrophic pools). Bacterioplankton communities in ombrotrophic pools showed phylogenetic clustering, suggesting a dominant role of deterministic processes in shaping these assemblages. These correlations between habitat characteristics and bacterial diversity patterns provide new insights into the factors regulating microbial populations in peatland ecosystems.
Cognitive testing with the Post‐Operative Quality of Recovery Scale in pre‐surgery cancer patients – a controlled study
Authors: LINDQVIST M. , GRANSTROM A. , SCHENING A. , BJORNE H. , JAKOBSSON J. G.
Published: February 2015

Background

Post‐Operative Quality of Recovery Scale (PQRS) has been revised to allow for the normal variation in cognitive performance seen in healthy volunteers. This modification could result in exclusion of test subjects because of poor baseline performance. Our aim was to investigate the impact of severe disease and waiting for cancer surgery on PQRS baseline cognitive performance and exclusion rate, and also on variation in cognitive performance at test re‐test.

Methods

Sixty‐one subjects, 31 women diagnosed with breast cancer and waiting for surgery and 30 healthy women, performed the PQRS cognitive, nociceptive and emotional domains three times in 48 h. Exclusion rate, change in score and the proportion fulfilling ‘recovery’ criteria at re‐tests were assessed.

Results

Nine out of 31 patients (29%) and two out of 30 controls (7%) had too low baseline score to be further assessed (P = 0.043). The change in score at re‐tests was similar between the groups. Sixty‐four per cent and 83% at 20 h and 79% and 86% at 48 h in the patient and control groups respectively fulfilled the ‘recovery’ criteria (P = 0.45). The ‘recovery’ for nociceptive and emotional distress was similar between the groups, but anxiety and sadness absolute scores were significantly higher in the patient group.

Conclusion

Women with breast cancer waiting for surgery expressed a higher level of emotional distress, performed lower at baseline but showed no difference in test re‐test variability in cognitive performance according to the PQRS when compared with controls. The considerable exclusion rate among patients waiting for cancer surgery should be acknowledged.
Milrinone and esmolol decrease cardiac damage after resuscitation from prolonged cardiac arrest
Authors: ZOERNER F. , LENNMYR F. , WIKLUND L. , MARTIJN C. , SEMENAS E.
Published: February 2015

Background

Long‐term survival after cardiac arrest (CA) due to shock‐refractory ventricular fibrillation (VF) is low. Clearly, there is a need for new pharmacological interventions in the setting of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) to improve outcome. Here, hemodynamic parameters and cardiac damage are compared between the treatment group (milrinone, esmolol and vasopressin) and controls (vasopressin only) during resuscitation from prolonged CA in piglets.

Methods

A total of 26 immature male piglets were subjected to 12‐min VF followed by 8‐min CPR. The treatment group (n = 13) received i.v. (intravenous) boluses vasopressin 0.4 U/kg, esmolol 250 μg/kg and milrinone 25 μg/kg after 13 min, followed by i.v. boluses esmolol 375 μg/kg and milrinone 25 μg/kg after 18 min and continuous esmolol 15 μg/kg/h infusion during 180 min reperfusion, whereas controls (n = 13) received equal amounts of vasopressin and saline. A 200 J monophasic counter‐shock was delivered to achieve resumption of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) after 8 min CPR. If ROSC was not achieved, another 200 J defibrillation and bolus vasopressin 0.4 U/kg would be administered in both groups. Direct current shocks at 360 J were applied as one shot per minute over maximally 5 min. Hemodynamic variables and troponin I as a marker of cardiac injury were recorded.

Results

Troponin I levels after 180 min reperfusion were lower in the treatment group than in controls (P < 0.05). The treatment group received less norepinephrine (P < 0.01) and had greater diuresis (P < 0.01). There was no difference in survival between groups.

Conclusion

The combination of milrinone, esmolol and vasopressin decreased cardiac injury compared with vasopressin alone.
Paul of Aegina's surgical instruments: a complete surgical instrumentarium in the seventh century AD
Authors: Papadakis Marios , de Bree Eelco , Trompoukis Constantinos , Manios Andreas
Published: March 2015

Background

Although current progress in surgical instruments is oriented towards stapler devices, minimally invasive instrumentation and advanced cautery tools, it definitely seems intriguing to determine what instruments were used in antiquity and to appraise their use. Most adequate information can be retrieved from manuscripts of early medical authors, of whom Paul of Aegina (AD 625–690), also being a most important surgeon, is the most recent. The aim of this study is to present surgical instruments used in his practice.

Methods

Surgical instruments mentioned in the original Greek text of his monumental work named Epitome of Medicine were sought using computer software. Further, similar research was performed on other significant manuscripts of earlier Greek medical writers to determine whether some of the instruments were exclusively mentioned by Paul of Aegina.

Results

In total, 121 different surgical instruments were identified and described in detail in the Epitome of Medicine. Thirty‐three instruments (27%) were exclusively reported by Paul of Aegina.

Conclusions

In antiquity a large number of surgical instruments were already being used. Paul of Aegina described in detail a large variety of fine, as well as a substantial number of, original surgical instruments, which he himself used in a wide spectrum of surgical operations.
Omission bias and perceived intention in children and adults
Authors: Hayashi Hajimu
Published: February 2015

Omission bias refers to the tendency to judge acts of commission as morally worse than equivalent acts of omission. Children aged 7–8 and 11–12 years, as well as adults, made moral judgements about acts of commission and omission in two conditions in which the protagonist obtained a self‐directed benefit. In the antisocial condition, the other person was harmed; in the selfish condition, the other person was not harmed. The results showed that adults and both age groups of children judged that the agent who did something (act of commission) was morally worse than the agent who did nothing (omission) for both antisocial and selfish conditions, although this judgement tendency was clearer in the selfish condition than in the antisocial condition. Agent intention was held constant across commission and omission, but most participants rated the intention of the agent who did something as stronger than that of the agent who did nothing. These results suggest that omission bias occurs regardless of differences in age and situation. In addition, perceived intention appears to change in conjunction with omission bias.
Community economic development and the rise of ethno‐cultural entrepreneurialism in francophone Manitoba
Authors: Picton Roger M. , Skinner Mark W.
Published: March 2015

This article examines the evolving concept and practice of “cultural entrepreneurialism.” Drawing on interviews with community‐based organizations in francophone Manitoba, it extends research on “social entrepreneurialism” by investigating the increasing role played by ethno‐cultural organizations in community economic development. A thematic analysis reveals how community economic development has been adapted to historically—and geographically—grounded cultural and institutional legacies. The findings show how Franco‐Manitoban community organizations formulated a particular mix of social entrepreneurialism infused with cultural practice and upheld an expansive view of community economic development. Scholars need to consider how everyday cultural practices and ethno‐cultural territory influence how community‐based organizations engage in local economic development.

Le développement économique communautaire et l'essor de l'entrepreneuriat ethnoculturel au Manitoba français

Cet article s'intéresse au concept et à la pratique en évolution de « l'entrepreneuriat culturel ». Se fondant sur des entrevues menées auprès d'organismes communautaires du Manitoba français, l'article s'inscrit dans le prolongement des travaux de recherche en cours sur « l'entrepreneuriat social » en explorant le rôle grandissant joué par les organisations ethnoculturelles dans le développement économique communautaire. Une analyse par thème laisse entrevoir comment le développement économique communautaire a fait l'objet d'aménagements établis sur les bases historiques et géographiques du patrimoine culturel et institutionnel. Il en ressort que les organisations communautaires francophones du Manitoba ont pu mettre au point leur propre vision qui conjugue l'entrepreneuriat social à la pratique culturelle et ainsi défendre une perspective plus étendue du développement économique communautaire. Une des questions que les chercheurs doivent se poser est celle de l'influence que peuvent exercer les pratiques culturelles quotidiennes et le territoire ethnoculturel sur la manière dont les organisations communautaires se lancent dans le développement économique local.
Expression and regulatory effects on cancer cell behavior of NELL1 and NELL2 in human renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Nakamura Ritsuko , Oyama Takeru , Tajiri Ryosuke , Mizokami Atsushi , Namiki Mikio , Nakamoto Masaru , Ooi Akishi
Published: March 2015

Neural epidermal growth factor‐like like (NELL) 1 and 2 constitute a family of multimeric and multimodular extracellular glycoproteins. Although the osteogenic effects of NELL1 and functions of NELL2 in neural development have been reported, their expression and functions in cancer are largely unknown. In this study, we examined expression of NELL1 and NELL2 in renal cell carcinoma (RCC) using clinical specimens and cell lines. We show that, whereas NELL1 and NELL2 proteins are strongly expressed in renal tubules in non‐cancerous areas of RCC specimens, their expression is significantly downregulated in cancerous areas. Silencing of NELL1 and NELL2 mRNA expression was also detected in RCC cell lines. Analysis of NELL1/2 promoter methylation status indicated that the CpG islands in the NELL1 and NELL2 genes are hypermethylated in RCC cell lines. NELL1 and NELL2 bind to RCC cells, suggesting that these cells express a receptor for NELL1 and NELL2 that can transduce signals. Furthermore, we found that both NELL1 and NELL2 inhibit RCC cell migration, and NELL1 further inhibits RCC cell adhesion. These results suggest that silencing of NELL gene expression by promoter hypermethylation plays roles in RCC progression by affecting cancer cell behavior.
Long-term kinetics of AA amyloidosis and effects of inflammatory restimulation after disappearance of amyloid depositions in mice
Authors: Muhammad N , Murakami T , Inoshima Y , Ishiguro N
Published: March 2015

Amyloid A (AA) amyloidosis is characterized by extracellular pathogenic deposition of insoluble fibril protein in various body organs. Deposited amyloid generally remains in a variety of organs for long periods, but its disappearance has been reported after the precursor protein is diminished. The kinetics of AA deposition are not completely understood and, in particular, the roles of cells and cytokines in the deposition and clearance of amyloid remain unclear. In this study, we investigated the disappearance of amyloid depositions in mice over a 1-year period. AA amyloidosis was induced experimentally in mice by injecting amyloid-enhancing factor (AEF) and silver nitrate. Mice were killed at different time-points to examine the occurrence and disappearance of amyloid depositions. Maximum levels of amyloid depositions were observed at 20 days after inoculation. Clearance of amyloid depositions was observed from the 40th day onwards, with only minute traces of amyloid present by 240 days. A second inflammatory stimulus consisting of AEF and silver nitrate was given at 330 or 430 days, after amyloid depositions had disappeared almost completely. After that, serum amyloid A was overproduced and redeposition of amyloid was observed, indicating that all mice were primed for aggressive amyloid depositions. After administration of the inflammatory stimuli, the proinflammatory environment was found to have increased levels of interleukin (IL)-6, while anti-inflammatory conditions were established by IL-10 as regression of amyloid deposition occurred. These results suggest that the proinflammatory and anti-inflammatory status have key roles in both amyloid deposition and clearance.
Are bile acid malabsorption and bile acid diarrhoea important causes of loose stool complicating cancer therapy?
Authors: Phillips F. , Muls A. C. G. , Lalji A. , Andreyev H. J. N.
Published: February 2015

Aim

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms during and after cancer therapy can significantly affect quality of life and interfere with treatment. This study assessed whether bile acid malabsorption (BAM) or bile acid diarrhoea (BAD) are important causes of diarrhoea associated with cancer treatment.

Method

A retrospective analysis was carried out of consecutive patients assessed for BAM using (75Se) Selenium homocholic acid taurocholate (SeHCAT) scanning, after reporting any episodes of loose stool, attending a gastroenterology clinic in a cancer centre.

Results

Between 2009 and 2013, 506 consecutive patients (54.5% male; age range: 20–91 years), were scanned. BAM/BAD was diagnosed in 215 (42.5%). It was mild in 25.6%, moderate in 29.3% and severe in 45.1%. Pelvic chemoradiation had induced BAM in > 50% of patients. BAM was also frequent after treatment for conditions not previously associated with BAM, such as anal and colorectal cancer, and was present in > 75% of patients referred after pancreatic surgery. It was also unexpectedly frequent in patients who were treated for malignancy outside the GI tract, such as breast cancer and haematological malignancy.

Conclusion

BAM/BAD are very common and under‐appreciated causes of GI symptoms after cancer treatment. Health professionals should have a low threshold in suspecting this condition, as diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve quality of life.
Corporate Ownership Structure and Top Executives’ Prosocial Preferences: The Role Of Relational and External Blockholders
Authors: Zeitoun Hossam , Pamini Paolo
Published: March 2015

Manuscript Type

Empirical

Research Question/Issue

The relationships between corporations and their stakeholders are often based on incomplete contracts, which are difficult to enforce in courts. Corporate managers play a key role in safeguarding incomplete contracts with stakeholders. This role requires a strong prosocial motivational orientation. Although the managers’ motivational orientation is invisible, stakeholders can make inferences about it from managers’ choices and behavior. Based on these ideas, this paper asks whether managers’ motivational orientations vary according to firms’ ownership structures, i.e., ownership by relational and external blockholders.

Research Findings/Insight

Results show that ownership by relational blockholders is associated with more prosocially oriented managers, whereas ownership by external blockholders is related to more self‐interested managers. This study adopts an unobtrusive measure to infer the managers’ motivational orientation. This measure reflects the managers’ willingness to pay taxes and can be assessed systematically in the Swiss empirical context. The results are corroborated using multivariate regression analysis and profile deviation analysis.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

This paper joins incomplete contract theory and behavioral economics to analyze how the shareholder primacy model and the stakeholder model fit with different types of managers. Based on the idea of profile deviation, we suggest that corporate ownership structure is an important factor influencing the degree to which firms approximate these two corporate governance models, and thereby their fit with the respective manager type.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

The theoretical arguments and the empirical evidence suggest that the fit between corporate ownership structure and managerial motivation merits consideration. When selecting managers, boards need to pay attention not only to their skills and competencies, but also to their motivational orientation in order to capitalize on the strengths of alternative corporate governance models.
Clinical validation of a gene expression signature that differentiates benign nevi from malignant melanoma
Authors: Clarke Loren E. , Warf M.B. , Flake Darl D. , Hartman Anne‐Renee , Tahan Steven , Shea Christopher R. , Gerami Pedram , Messina Jane , Florell Scott R. , Wenstrup Richard J. , Rushton Kristen , Roundy Kirstin M. , Rock Colleen , Roa Benjamin , Kolquist Kathryn A. , Gutin Alexander , Billings Steven , Leachman Sancy
Published: March 2015

Background

Histopathologic examination is sometimes inadequate for accurate and reproducible diagnosis of certain melanocytic neoplasms. As a result, more sophisticated and objective methods have been sought. The goal of this study was to identify a gene expression signature that reliably differentiated benign and malignant melanocytic lesions and evaluate its potential clinical applicability. Herein, we describe the development of a gene expression signature and its clinical validation using multiple independent cohorts of melanocytic lesions representing a broad spectrum of histopathologic subtypes.

Methods

Using quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (PCR) on a selected set of 23 differentially expressed genes, and by applying a threshold value and weighting algorithm, we developed a gene expression signature that produced a score that differentiated benign nevi from malignant melanomas.

Results

The gene expression signature classified melanocytic lesions as benign or malignant with a sensitivity of 89% and a specificity of 93% in a training cohort of 464 samples. The signature was validated in an independent clinical cohort of 437 samples, with a sensitivity of 90% and specificity of 91%.

Conclusions

The performance, objectivity, reliability and minimal tissue requirements of this test suggest that it could have clinical application as an adjunct to histopathology in the diagnosis of melanocytic neoplasms.
Randomized controlled trial of web‐based multimodal therapy for unilateral cerebral palsy to improve occupational performance
Authors: James Sarah , Ziviani Jenny , Ware Robert S , Boyd Roslyn N
Published: February 2015

Aim

The study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of a web‐based therapy programme, ‘Move it to improve it’ (Mitii™), in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP) on occupational performance, upper limb function, and visual perception.

Method

Participants (n=102) were matched in pairs and randomized to intervention (Mitii for 20wks; 26 males, mean age 11y 8mo [2y 4mo], Manual Ability Classification System level I=11, II=39, III=1) or control (standard care; 25 males, mean age 11y 10mo [2y 5mo], Manual Ability Classification System level I=13, II=37). Outcomes were the Assessment of Motor and Process Skills (AMPS), Assisting Hand Assessment, Jebsen–Taylor Test of Hand Function (JTTHF), Melbourne Assessment of Unilateral Upper Limb Function (MUUL), Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), and Test of Visual Perceptual Skills (TVPS‐3).

Results

Participants completed on average 32.4 hours of Mitii (range 3.7–74.7h). The Mitii group demonstrated significantly greater post‐intervention scores than the comparison group on the AMPS, JTTHF dominant upper limb, COPM, and TVPS‐3. The differences between groups were not clinically significant. There were no differences between groups on measures of impaired upper limb function.

Interpretation

Mitii delivers individualized, web‐based therapy at home and has potential to increase therapy dose. Mitii can be considered as an option to enhance occupational performance and visual perception for children with UCP.
Value of Resting Echocardiographic Findings and Dobutamine Stress Echocardiography for Diagnosing Myocardial Ischemia in Patients with Suspected Angina Pectoris
Authors: Utsunomiya Hiroto , Hidaka Takayuki , Masada Kenji , Shimonaga Takashi , Higaki Tadanao , Iwasaki Toshitaka , Mitsuba Naoya , Ishibashi Ken , Kurisu Satoshi , Kihara Yasuki
Published: February 2015

Background

We evaluated the diagnostic value of resting echocardiographic findings including total heart calcification (THC) score in combination with dobutamine stress echocardiography (DSE) for detection of myocardial ischemia.

Methods

Altogether, 110 patients with suspected angina pectoris underwent resting echocardiography and DSE. On the basis of resting echocardiography, we determined the THC score, left anterior descending artery diastole‐to‐systole velocity ratio (LAD‐DSVR), and positive myocardial velocity during isovolumic relaxation phase (VIVR) detected by color‐coded tissue Doppler imaging. Myocardial ischemia was diagnosed by a 25% or greater reduction in the internal diameter of major coronary vessels with impaired fractional flow reserve (FFR ≤0.80).

Results

DSE had excellent specificity (89%) but modest sensitivity (52%) for wall‐motion abnormality (WMA) analysis. Multivariate analysis showed that THC score ≥2 (odds ratio and 95% confidence interval: 4.49 [2.29–10.6]; P = 0.018), LAD‐DSVR ≤1.5 (6.43 [1.39–20.3], P = 0.019), and duration of positive VIVR ≥71 msec (7.93 [3.72–12.1]; P < 0.001) were independent predictors of ischemia. The combination of inducible WMA and THC score yielded significantly higher sensitivity for ischemia detection than the inducible WMA alone (80% vs. 52%, P = 0.0008). Using receiver operating characteristics analyses, adding all three resting echocardiographic findings to clinical variables plus inducible WMA further improved prediction of ischemia (P = 0.028).

Conclusions

Integration of DSE and resting echocardiographic findings describing degree of heart calcification, impaired LAD flow, and extent of delayed ejection motion of the myocardium improves detection of coronary angiogram‐based FFR‐guided ischemia.
Geographic distribution and migration pathways of Pistacia – present, past and future
Authors: Kozhoridze G. , Orlovsky N. , Orlovsky L. , Blumberg Dan G. , Golan‐Goldhirsh A.
Published: February 2015

The global distribution of Pistacia is correlated to its adaptability to environmental conditions and mechanisms that had driven the genus to the current unique narrow latitudinal belt in between 10° North and 45° North. The current geostatisitcal distribution maps of the genus are shown and the derived probability maps over a period between 121 Kyr before present and the year 2100 were calculated. The tolerance of Pistacia trees to harsh climate conditions was related to leaf phenology, evergreeness vs deciduousness, which has led to geographic classification of the genus in two corresponding sections that corroborate recent molecular genetic studies. The deciduous trees are more tolerant to extreme climate conditions (−26°C to 46°C) than the evergreen species (−8°C to 41°C), except Pistacia lentiscus, which occurs at a max. temperature of 45°C. The close spatial distribution of the later species and the deciduous ones may have been conducive in further evolution of the genus. Based on the long evolution of Pistacia (approx. 84 Ma), we suggested that the genus may have originated in the boreal forest and its migration pathways might have been evoked in relation to climate change, shifting the species distribution to evolving suitable environmental conditions. The fact that most of the genera in the family of Anacardiaceae and the whole genus Pistacia are dioecious raised questions about plausible relationships between the geographic distribution, environmental conditions and evolution of dioecy. The genus Pistacia was shown to be a good candidate for research about the relationships between environmental conditions, adaptation traits and geographic distribution.
Towards an understanding of how phloem amino acid composition shapes elevated CO2‐induced changes in aphid population dynamics
Authors: RYAN GERALDINE D. , SYLVESTER EMMA V. A. , SHELP BARRY J. , NEWMAN JONATHAN A.
Published: March 2015

1. The performance of foliage feeders tends to decrease under elevated CO2, but the responses of phloem‐feeding insects have been much more equivocal. As phloem tissues are less accessible than whole‐plant tissues, much less is known about how phloem composition is altered under elevated CO2 and the mechanisms driving changes in aphid performance.

2. In this study, the plant mechanisms underlying the performance of Rhopalosiphum padi aphids on Hordeum vulgare (barley) grown under ambient (390 ppm) and elevated (700 ppm) CO2 were examined. We used aphid stylectomy to sample pure phloem from plants in CO2‐controlled conditions and high‐performance liquid chromatography to analyse phloem samples for amino acid concentrations.

3. Aphid abundance significantly increased by 127% under elevated CO2. Consequently, plant biomass decreased under elevated CO2 in trials with herbivores present, possibly due to the increased herbivore load, but increased when aphids were absent. The intrinsic rate of population increase (rm) was significantly higher under elevated CO2; however, there were no statistically significant effects on aphid fecundity or development time. The concentration of individual amino acids tended to increase, although these increases were statistically significant in only a few cases. A principal components analysis revealed that the relative abundance (mol %) of those amino acids considered essential for aphids tended to increase under elevated CO2.

4. These results indicate that CO2 may affect nutrient translocation in plants in ways that are contrary to predictions about nitrogen metabolite responses to CO2. Such plant biochemical responses may underlie observations of improved phloem feeder performance under elevated CO2.
Bat auditory cortex – model for general mammalian auditory computation or special design solution for active time perception?
Authors: Kössl Manfred , Hechavarria Julio , Voss Cornelia , Schaefer Markus , Vater Marianne
Published: March 2015

Audition in bats serves passive orientation, alerting functions and communication as it does in other vertebrates. In addition, bats have evolved echolocation for orientation and prey detection and capture. This put a selective pressure on the auditory system in regard to echolocation‐relevant temporal computation and frequency analysis. The present review attempts to evaluate in which respect the processing modules of bat auditory cortex (AC) are a model for typical mammalian AC function or are designed for echolocation‐unique purposes. We conclude that, while cortical area arrangement and cortical frequency processing does not deviate greatly from that of other mammals, the echo delay time‐sensitive dorsal cortex regions contain special designs for very powerful time perception. Different bat species have either a unique chronotopic cortex topography or a distributed salt‐and‐pepper representation of echo delay. The two designs seem to enable similar behavioural performance.
Sensorimotor neural dynamics during isochronous tapping in the medial premotor cortex of the macaque
Authors: Merchant Hugo , Pérez Oswaldo , Bartolo Ramón , Méndez Juan Carlos , Mendoza Germán , Gámez Jorge , Yc Karyna , Prado Luis
Published: March 2015

We determined the response properties of neurons in the primate medial premotor cortex that were classified as sensory or motor during isochronous tapping to a visual or auditory metronome, using different target intervals and three sequential elements in the task. The cell classification was based on a warping transformation, which determined whether the cell activity was statistically aligned to sensory or motor events, finding a large proportion of cells classified as sensory or motor. Two distinctive clusters of sensory cells were observed, i.e. one cell population with short response‐onset latencies to the previous stimulus, and another that was probably predicting the occurrence of the next stimuli. These cells were called sensory‐driven and stimulus‐predicting neurons, respectively. Sensory‐driven neurons showed a clear bias towards the visual modality and were more responsive to the first stimulus, with a decrease in activity for the following sequential elements of the metronome. In contrast, stimulus‐predicting neurons were bimodal and showed similar response profiles across serial‐order elements. Motor cells showed a consecutive activity onset across discrete neural ensembles, generating a rapid succession of activation patterns between the two taps defining a produced interval. The cyclical configuration in activation profiles engaged more motor cells as the serial‐order elements progressed across the task, and the rate of cell recruitment over time decreased as a function of the target interval. Our findings support the idea that motor cells were responsible for the rhythmic progression of taps in the task, gaining more importance as the trial advanced, while, simultaneously, the sensory‐driven cells lost their functional impact.