bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anterior vertical mini‐incision vs. retroperitoneoscopic nephrectomy in living kidney donation: a prospective study on donors' quality of life and clinical outcome
Authors: Kroencke Sylvia , Schulz Karl‐Heinz , Nashan Björn , Koch Martina
Published: September 2015

Background

A fundamental goal in living kidney donation (LKD) is to maximize donor safety while minimizing post‐operative impairments. We evaluated clinical outcome and health‐related quality of life (QOL) comparing anterior vertical mini‐incision donor nephrectomy (MIDN) and retroperitoneoscopic donor nephrectomy (RPDN).

Methods

Thirty‐eight MIDN and 45 RPDN donors were analyzed. In a subsample (n = 18 MIDN; n = 32 RPDN), QOL was prospectively assessed with the WHOQOL‐Bref questionnaire before and three months after LKD.

Results

Skin‐to‐skin time (169 vs. 116 min, p < 0.001) and hospital stay (6.6 vs. 4.9 d, p < 0.001) were significantly shorter in RPDN. In total, 26% of MIDN patients and 13% of RPDN patients developed post‐operative complications (p = 0.14). While in MIDN the QOL domains physical health (p = 0.03) and psychological (p = 0.03) and the overall QOL facet (p = 0.003) were significantly lower three months post‐LKD compared to baseline, there were no significant QOL decreases in RPDN. However, no significant post‐operative QOL differences were found between groups. RPDN donors retrospectively reported significantly less post‐operative pain (p = 0.007) and physical strain (p = 0.05) caused by LKD than MIDN donors.

Conclusions

It may be possible to further reduce the surgical burden of LKD by introducing RPDN. Post‐operative QOL was not significantly different between groups, but the QOL decrease appeared to be less pronounced in RPDN.
Variation in mouthguard thickness according to heating conditions during fabrication Part 2: sheet shape and effect of thermal shrinkage
Authors: Takahashi Mutsumi , Koide Kaoru
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of the thermal shrinkage to thickness of the mouthguard with the heating method by the setting position of a sheet and the working model using an ethylene vinyl acetate sheet prepared by extrusion. Mouthguards were fabricated with EVA sheets (4.0 mm thick) using a vacuum‐forming machine. Two forming conditions were compared: the square sheet was pinched by the clamping frame attached to the forming machine (S); and the round sheet was pinched at the top and bottom and stabilized by the circle tray (R). The sheet was aligned to make the sheet's extrusion direction vertical (V) or parallel (P) to the midline of the working model. The following two heating conditions were compared: (i) the sheet was molded when it sagged 15 mm below the level of the sheet frame measured at the top of the post in condition S (S‐0), or that sagged 10 mm in condition R (R‐0) in the usual position; (ii) the sheet frame was lowered by 50 mm from the ordinary height (S‐50, R‐50). Postmolding thickness was determined using a measuring device. Measurement points were the incisal and molar portion. Differences in the change of thickness of mouthguards molded under different heating conditions and extrusion directions for each sheet shape were analyzed by two‐way analysis of variance (anova). The results of this study showed that by lowering the height of the sheet frame, the difference of the sheet temperature of each part was reduced. Among all sheets, condition V produced under S‐50 and R‐50 had the largest thickness independently of shape sheet. Furthermore, thickness reduction is effectively suppressed by aligning the direction of the extruded sheet to be vertical to the midline of the model.
Brain regions with abnormal network properties in severe epilepsy of Lennox‐Gastaut phenotype: Multivariate analysis of task‐free fMRI
Authors: Pedersen Mangor , Curwood Evan K. , Archer John S. , Abbott David F. , Jackson Graeme D.
Published: September 2015

Objective

Lennox‐Gastaut syndrome, and the similar but less tightly defined Lennox‐Gastaut phenotype, describe patients with severe epilepsy, generalized epileptic discharges, and variable intellectual disability. Our previous functional neuroimaging studies suggest that abnormal diffuse association network activity underlies the epileptic discharges of this clinical phenotype. Herein we use a data‐driven multivariate approach to determine the spatial changes in local and global networks of patients with severe epilepsy of the Lennox‐Gastaut phenotype.

Methods

We studied 9 adult patients and 14 controls. In 20 min of task‐free blood oxygen level–dependent functional magnetic resonance imaging data, two metrics of functional connectivity were studied: Regional homogeneity or local connectivity, a measure of concordance between each voxel to a focal cluster of adjacent voxels; and eigenvector centrality, a global connectivity estimate designed to detect important neural hubs. Multivariate pattern analysis of these data in a machine‐learning framework was used to identify spatial features that classified disease subjects.

Results

Multivariate pattern analysis was 95.7% accurate in classifying subjects for both local and global connectivity measures (22/23 subjects correctly classified). Maximal discriminating features were the following: increased local connectivity in frontoinsular and intraparietal areas; increased global connectivity in posterior association areas; decreased local connectivity in sensory (visual and auditory) and medial frontal cortices; and decreased global connectivity in the cingulate cortex, striatum, hippocampus, and pons.

Significance

Using a data‐driven analysis method in task‐free functional magnetic resonance imaging, we show increased connectivity in critical areas of association cortex and decreased connectivity in primary cortex. This supports previous findings of a critical role for these association cortical regions as a final common pathway in generating the Lennox‐Gastaut phenotype. Abnormal function of these areas is likely to be important in explaining the intellectual problems characteristic of this disorder.
Regulation of gene expression via retrotransposon insertions and the noncoding RNA 4.5S RNAH
Authors: Ishida Kentaro , Miyauchi Kenjyo , Kimura Yuko , Mito Mari , Okada Shunpei , Suzuki Tsutomu , Nakagawa Shinichi
Published: September 2015

Short interspersed elements (SINEs) comprise a significant portion of mammalian genomes and regulate gene expression through a variety of mechanisms. Here, we show that Myodonta clade‐specific 4.5S RNAH (4.5SH), an abundant nuclear noncoding RNA that is highly homologous to the retrotransposon SINE B1, controls the expression of reporter gene that contains the antisense insertion of SINE B1 via nuclear retention. The depletion of endogenous 4.5SH with antisense oligonucleotides neutralizes the nuclear retention and changes the subcellular distribution of the reporter transcripts containing the antisense SINE B1 insertion. Importantly, endogenous transcripts with antisense SINE B1 were increased in the cytoplasm after knockdown of 4.5SH, leading to a decrease in cellular growth. We propose a tentative hypothesis that the amplification of the 4.5SH cluster in specific rodent species might delineate their evolutionary direction via the regulation of genes containing the antisense insertion of SINE B1.
In mixed biofilms Enterococcus faecalis benefits from a calcium hydroxide challenge and culturing
Authors: van der Waal S. V. , Connert T. , Crielaard W. , de Soet J. J.
Published: September 2015

Aim

To evaluate the fate of Enterococcus faecalis in dual‐species and multispecies biofilms after treatment with calcium hydroxide (Ca(OH)2).

Methodology

Biofilms were cultured from laboratory strains of E. faecalis and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, or from microbiota retrieved from primary root canal infections. The biofilms were then treated with Ca(OH)2. The proportion of E. faecalis and P. aeruginosa and their susceptibility to disinfection were evaluated in a viability assay. In the mixed‐species assay, the presence and proportions of E. faecalis before and after Ca(OH)2 treatment were evaluated with a quantitative polymerase chain reaction assay. Groups were compared using Mann–Whitney U‐test and Student's t‐tests. An α <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

After Ca(OH)2 treatment in dual‐species biofilms, the proportion of E. faecalis had increased (P < 0.001), whereas the total number of CFUs per biofilm was equal. Enterococcus faecalis was equally susceptible to disinfection by sodium hypochlorite (NaOCl) or by chlorhexidine. Pseudomonas aeruginosa had become more susceptible to NaOCl disinfection. The root canal isolates contained no detectable amounts of E. faecalis. After biofilm culturing or Ca(OH)2 treatment, it appeared that E. faecalis must have been present in 5 of 6 (83%) root canal samples.

Conclusions

Calcium hydroxide favours the population of E. faecalis in a dual‐species biofilm. Culturing multispecies root canal isolates makes E. faecalis detectable. E. faecalis was often present in primary endodontic infections, albeit in low numbers.
Management and treatment of men affected by metastatic prostate cancer: evidence‐based recommendations for practice
Authors: Paterson Catherine , Alashkham Abduelmenem , Windsor Phyllis , Nabi Ghulam
Published: September 2015

Currently, 250 000 men are affected by prostate cancer in the UK. Clinical guidance is crucial for nurses involved in the care delivery for men with advanced prostate cancer and for their families to maximize their quality and quantity of life. It is essential that nurses understand how prostate cancer is diagnosed, can recognize signs of disease progression, are familiar with disease management, and can educate patients and manage any symptoms appropriately and effectively. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to review current evidence‐based guidelines in relation to care delivery for men with metastatic prostate cancer in order to optimize best supportive care. A literature review was conducted in a range of electronic databases (DARE, Cochrane, MEDLINE, BNI, PsychINFO, EMBASE and CIHAHL) to identify studies employing qualitative and/or quantitative methods. National (UK) and European clinical guidelines were also reviewed. Methodological evaluation was conducted and the evidence‐based recommendations were integrated in a narrative synthesis. Supportive care is a person‐centred approach to the provision of the necessary services for those living with or affected by cancer to meet their informational, spiritual, emotional, social or physical needs during diagnosis, treatment or follow‐up phases including issues of health promotion, survivorship, palliation and bereavement. A multidisciplinary and proactive approach to the management of men with metastatic prostate cancer ensures safe and effective supportive care delivery. Nurses involved in the care delivery for this patient group need to be aware of the complex physical and psychological supportive care needs, and evidence‐based management care plans to ensure a personalized and tailored support to optimize quality of life.
Ecdysone receptor isoform‐B mediates soluble trehalase expression to regulate growth and development in the mirid bug, Apolygus lucorum (Meyer‐Dür)
Authors: Tan Y.‐A. , Xiao L.‐B. , Zhao J. , Xiao Y.‐F. , Sun Y. , Bai L.‐X.
Published: September 2015

Ecdysone receptor (EcR) is the hormonal receptor of ecdysteroids and strictly regulates growth and development in insects. However, the action mechanism of EcR is not very clear. In this study, the cDNA of EcR isoform‐B was cloned from Apolygus lucorum (AlEcR‐B) and its expression profile was investigated. We reduced AlEcR‐B mRNA expression using systemic RNA interference in vivo, and obtained knockdown specimens. Examination of these specimens indicated that AlEcR‐B is required for nymphal survival, and that reduced expression is associated with longer development time and lower nymphal weight. To investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of the observed suppression effects, we selected trehalase for a detailed study. Transcript encoding soluble trehalase (AlTre‐1) was up‐regulated by 20‐hydroxyecdysone and in agreement with the mRNA expression of AlEcR‐B. The expression profile of AlTre‐1, soluble trehalase activity and translated protein level in the midgut of surviving nymphs were down‐regulated, compared with controls, after the knockdown expression of AlEcR‐B. By contrast, membrane‐bound trehalase activity, the related gene expression and translated protein level remained at their initial levels. However, trehalose content significantly increased and the glucose content significantly decreased under the same conditions. We propose that AlEcR‐B controls normal carbohydrate metabolism by mediating the expression of AlTre‐1 to regulate the growth and development in A. lucorum, which provide an extended information into the functions of AlEcR‐B.
Effects of lifestyle intervention on weight and metabolic parameters in patients with impaired glucose tolerance related to beta‐3 adrenergic receptor gene polymorphism Trp64Arg(C/T): Results from the Japan Diabetes Prevention Program
Authors: Sakane Naoki , Sato Juichi , Tsushita Kazuyo , Tsujii Satoru , Kotani Kazuhiko , Tominaga Makoto , Kawazu Shoji , Sato Yuzo , Usui Takeshi , Kamae Isao , Yoshida Toshihide , Kiyohara Yutaka , Sato Shigeaki , Tsuzaki Kokoro , Takahashi Kaoru , Kuzuya Hideshi ,   the Japan Diabetes Prevention Program (JDPP) Research Group
Published: September 2015

The beta‐3 adrenergic receptor (ADRB3), primarily expressed in adipose tissue, is involved in the regulation of energy metabolism. The present study hypothesized that ADRB3 (Trp64Arg, rs4994) polymorphisms modulate the effects of lifestyle intervention on weight and metabolic parameters in patients with impaired glucose tolerance. Data were analyzed from 112 patients with impaired glucose tolerance in the Japan Diabetes Prevention Program, a lifestyle intervention trial, randomized to either an intensive lifestyle intervention group or usual care group. Changes in weight and metabolic parameters were measured after the 6‐month intervention. The ADRB3 polymorphisms were determined using the polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism method. Non‐carriers showed a greater weight reduction compared with the carriers in both the lifestyle intervention group and usual care group, and a greater increase of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol levels than the carriers only in the lifestyle intervention group. ADRB3 polymorphisms could influence the effects of lifestyle interventions on weight and lipid parameters in impaired glucose tolerance patients.
Optimization of Foaming Properties and Foam Mat Drying of Muskmelon Using Soy Protein
Authors: Asokapandian Sangamithra , Venkatachalam Sivakumar , Swamy Gabriela John , Kuppusamy Kannan
Published: September 2015

The effect of concentration of soy protein isolate (SPI), carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) and whipping time on foaming properties of muskmelon pulp was investigated. Box–Behnken design of experiments was used to optimize the foaming process. The optimum conditions for foaming process were found to be 8.71% of SPI concentration, 0.54% of CMC concentration and a whipping time of 5.7 min. The muskmelon foamed at optimum conditions was dried using hot air dryer at 50, 60 and 70C. The drying rate was found to be high at 70C. The effective moisture diffusivity of foamed muskmelon pulp was determined and compared with the unfoamed muskmelon pulp. The powder properties such as density, color, water absorption index, solubility index, Hausner ratio and Carr index were also determined for muskmelon.

Practical Applications

Fruit juice powders have been considered as economically viable over their liquid counterparts because it has improved shelf life, low volume/weight, less space volume required for storage, simpler handling and transportation. Among various drying processes, the foam mat drying process has be successfully used for the production of fruit powders because of rapid drying at lower temperature, retention of high nutrition, easy reconstitution characteristics and its cost‐effectiveness. This foam mat drying process is much cheaper than freeze and spray drying for the production of fruit powders. The muskmelon powders find application in snacks, beverages, ice creams and bakery industries for production of many food products, and it is also used as a starter for the preparation of instant foods and pastes.
Tunnel Dryer and Pneumatic Dryer Performance Evaluation to Improve Small‐Scale Cassava Processing in Tanzania
Authors: Precoppe Marcelo , Chapuis Arnaud , Müller Joachim , Abass Adebayo
Published: September 2015

In sub‐Saharan Africa, cassava is grown by smallholder farmers and is the principal source of calories for the local population. However, the short shelf life of cassava associated with poor infrastructure in the region results in significant postharvest losses. The expansion of small‐scale cassava processing could reduce these losses, but the availability of drying equipment suitable for use in such operations is limited. The objective of this research was to contribute to the development of cassava dryers suitable for use by smallholder farmers. A tunnel dryer and a pneumatic dryer being operated in Tanzania were evaluated using mass and energy balance analysis. It was found that the energy efficiency of the tunnel dryer was 29% and of the pneumatic dryer 46%. For the tunnel dryer, most of the heat losses were through unsaturated exhaust air, while for the pneumatic dryer, most losses were through radiation and convection.

Practical Applications

In this study, a tunnel dryer and a pneumatic dryer suitable for use by smallholder farmers were evaluated during processing centers' usual cassava drying operations. The sources and extent of heat losses were identified, and then guidelines developed on how to reduce such losses. For both dryer types, improvements to the thermal insulation used could reduce heat losses to the ambient. For the tunnel dryer, decreasing the air mass flow rate by 57% would help to minimize exhaust heat losses without producing condensation inside the unit. For the pneumatic dryer, air mass flow rate could be reduced by 9%, improving energy performance without having a negative impact on the pneumatic conveying of the product. Those two modifications would be easy to implement and represent a significant contribution to the development of small‐scale cassava drying technology.
The Social Network Position of Lead Users
Authors: Kratzer Jan , Lettl Christopher , Franke Nikolaus , Gloor Peter A.
Published: September 2015

The field of lead user research has seen a great deal of attention from academics and practitioners alike. However, we still lack a full understanding of the nature of users with high potential for innovation. In this paper, we employ a social network perspective on lead users. Increasing the realism of our research in three empirical studies with different empirical settings and methods, we provide robust evidence that lead users have a distinctive social network position: They exhibit an unusually high level of “betweenness centrality,” meaning that they are positioned as bridges between different social groups. This finding has two major implications for lead user theory. First, it consolidates seminal conceptual work on lead users and their embeddedness in social networks. And second, the findings extend and validate prior work on the social network perspective of lead users by combining theoretical insights from cognitive psychology, research on creativity, and network theory. As the social network positions of individuals can be mapped quickly and at low cost with modern Web mining tools, our findings may point to a new and readily applicable approach for the efficient and effective identification of lead users in real‐life projects, an aspect that is usually emphasized as the most crucial activity in lead user projects.
Effect of treating alfalfa silage with pistachio by‐products extract on Saanen dairy goats performance and microbial nitrogen synthesis
Authors: Mokhtarpour A. , Naserian A. A. , Pourmollae F. , Ghaffari M. H.
Published: September 2015

A lactation experiment was conducted to determine the influence of addition of pistachio by‐products extract (PBE) to alfalfa silage (AS) on performance, rumen fermentation, milk yield and composition, and microbial nitrogen synthesis. Eight multiparous dairy goats (1.8 ± 0.25 kg of milk yield) were used in a replicated 4 × 4 Latin square design with a 2 × 2 factorial arrangement of treatments to compare two types of AS (supplemented with or without PBE) with two levels of dietary crude protein (14% vs. 16% CP). Dietary treatments were (i) AS with 14% CP of DM diet without PBE (14%CP−PBE), (ii) AS with 14% CP of DM diet with PBE (14%CP + PBE), (iii) AS with 16% CP of DM diet without PBE (16%CP−PBE) and (iv) AS with 16% CP of DM diet with PBE (16%CP + PBE). PBE was sprayed on fresh alfalfa at a ratio of 500 ml/kg alfalfa DM to get the final concentration of 1% tannin as tannic acid equivalent on DM basis. Intake of CP was greater (p < 0.01) in goats fed 16% CP diets than those fed 14% CP diets, regardless of PBE supplementation. Supplementation of PBE tended to decrease (p = 0.09) rumen NH3‐N concentration regardless of the level of CP in the diet. Supplementation of PBE tended (p = 0.09) to decrease total purine derivatives regardless of the level of CP in the diet with no significant change in microbial nitrogen supply. Efficiency of microbial nitrogen synthesis (EMNS) had a tendency (p = 0.07) to decrease in PBE supplemented diets. There was also a tendency (p = 0.10) for more EMNS in 14% CP fed goats than those fed 16% CP diets. Therefore, AS supplemented with PBE may lead to less concentration of ruminal NH3‐N because of decreased degradation of CP by rumen micro‐organisms in response to pistachio by‐products tannins.
The effect of prophylactic topical carbonic anhydrase inhibitors in canine primary closed‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Stavinohova R. , Newton J. R. , Busse C.
Published: September 2015

OBJECTIVES

To determine the effect of 1% brinzolamide, 2% dorzolamide hydrochloride or combination 2% dorzolamide hydrochloride/0 · 5% timolol to delay the elevation of the intraocular pressure in second eyes of dogs with primary closed‐angle glaucoma.

METHODS

Analysis of retrospectively collated data from 40 dogs with primary closed‐angle glaucoma, where the non‐affected eye was treated prophylactically with brinzolamide (n = 10), dorzolamide (n = 18) or combination dorzolamide/timolol therapy (n = 12).

RESULTS

The 40 treated dogs (median age of 76 · 2 months) comprised 25 females/15 males, 19 entire/21 neutered. Twenty dogs developed glaucoma in the contralateral eye (median time of 9 · 2 months). No statistically significant difference was identified during treatment failure between the treatment groups (P = 0 · 66). The second eye remained normotensive in 20 dogs; four dogs until the conclusion of the study (median: 27 · 0 months), three dogs until death (median: 15 · 4 months), seven dogs until lost to follow‐up (median: 11 · 6 months). Out of these 20 dogs, treatment was discontinued because of lack of owner compliance in two dogs and following a local drug reaction in four dogs (median: 8 · 9 months).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

There was no evidence that the tested drugs delayed elevation of intraocular pressure in contralateral eyes of dogs with primary closed‐angle glaucoma.
Shakespeare and Ecocriticism Reconsidered
Authors: Munroe Jennifer
Published: September 2015

Organized around a set of principles rather than a unified theoretical approach, ecocriticism considers the relationship between humans and nonhumans, especially as expressed in texts. Despite calls from some for ecocritics to rally around a unified theory, ecocritics have embraced the inclusivity that such broad definition has allowed. Thus, practitioners have come to ecocriticism with a range of interests. Such interests vary from an earlier focus on how the human/nonhuman relationship was fractured (and its recuperation in nature writing in particular) to a later emphasis on how it is always‐already interconnected. Along the way, and especially in light of concerns about our current environmental crises, many ecocritics have cited a political dimension to the field, bringing concerns of the past and present together and examining intersections between such things as environmental degradation, misogyny, racism, homophobia, and speciesism. Early modern ecocriticism, especially in Shakespeare studies, has become a steadily growing field over the past decade. But early modern ecocritics' focus on the “nonhuman” tends to be more focused than that category might suggest, ranging from (nonhuman) animals, to plants, to minerals – challenging the distinction between animate and inanimate as well as asking us to rethink the integrity (let alone the exceptionalism) of the category of the human. This essay reviews the state of the field of Shakespeare and ecocriticism and offers a pathway for its future development, especially to suggest that it retains its political roots and focus on the implications of the material interactions between humans and nonhumans related to gender, race, and class.
Genetic subdivision and candidate genes under selection in North American grey wolves
Authors: Schweizer Rena M. , vonHoldt Bridgett M. , Harrigan Ryan , Knowles James C. , Musiani Marco , Coltman David , Novembre John , Wayne Robert K.
Published: September 2015

Previous genetic studies of the highly mobile grey wolf (Canis lupus) found population structure that coincides with habitat and phenotype differences. We hypothesized that these ecologically distinct populations (ecotypes) should exhibit signatures of selection in genes related to morphology, coat colour and metabolism. To test these predictions, we quantified population structure related to habitat using a genotyping array to assess variation in 42 036 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in 111 North American grey wolves. Using these SNP data and individual‐level measurements of 12 environmental variables, we identified six ecotypes: West Forest, Boreal Forest, Arctic, High Arctic, British Columbia and Atlantic Forest. Next, we explored signals of selection across these wolf ecotypes through the use of three complementary methods to detect selection: FST/haplotype homozygosity bivariate percentilae, bayescan, and environmentally correlated directional selection with bayenv. Across all methods, we found consistent signals of selection on genes related to morphology, coat coloration, metabolism, as predicted, as well as vision and hearing. In several high‐ranking candidate genes, including LEPR, TYR and SLC14A2, we found variation in allele frequencies that follow environmental changes in temperature and precipitation, a result that is consistent with local adaptation rather than genetic drift. Our findings show that local adaptation can occur despite gene flow in a highly mobile species and can be detected through a moderately dense genomic scan. These patterns of local adaptation revealed by SNP genotyping likely reflect high fidelity to natal habitats of dispersing wolves, strong ecological divergence among habitats, and moderate levels of linkage in the wolf genome.
Phylogeographic structure and deep lineage diversification of the red alga Chondrus ocellatus Holmes in the Northwest Pacific
Authors: Hu Zi‐Min , Li Jing‐Jing , Sun Zhong‐Min , Oak Jung‐Hyun , Zhang Jie , Fresia Pablo , Grant W. Stewart , Duan De‐Lin
Published: September 2015

A major goal of phylogeographic analysis using molecular markers is to understand the ecological and historical variables that influence genetic diversity within a species. Here, we used sequences of the mitochondrial Cox1 gene and nuclear internal transcribed spacer to reconstruct its phylogeography and demographic history of the intertidal red seaweed Chondrus ocellatus over most of its geographical range in the Northwest Pacific. We found three deeply separated lineages A, B and C, which diverged from one another in the early Pliocene–late Miocene (c. 4.5–7.7 Ma). The remarkably deep divergences, both within and between lineages, appear to have resulted from ancient isolations, accelerated by random drift and limited genetic exchange between regions. The disjunct distributions of lineages A and C along the coasts of Japan may reflect divergence during isolation in scattered refugia. The distribution of lineage B, from the South China Sea to the Korean Peninsula, appears to reflect postglacial recolonizations of coastal habitats. These three lineages do not coincide with the three documented morphological formae in C. ocellatus, suggesting that additional cryptic species may exist in this taxon. Our study illustrates the interaction of environmental variability and demographic processes in producing lineage diversification in an intertidal seaweed and highlights the importance of phylogeographic approaches for discovering cryptic marine biodiversity.
Physics, philosophy, and the nature of reality
Authors: Maudlin Tim
Published: September 2015

Both science and philosophy have been characterized as seeking to understand the nature of reality. They are sometimes even pitted against each other, suggesting that the success of science undermines the relevance of philosophy. But attending to the sort of understanding or explanation being sought offers a different picture: contemporary physics as practiced sometimes fails to provide a clear physical account of the world. This lies at the root of the dissatisfaction with standard quantum theory expressed by Einstein, Schrödinger, and John Bell. As an example, close consideration of Schrödinger's famous cat example suggests that physicists often have missed his point. What a philosophical disposition can contribute is not alternative physics, but rather the sort of careful attention to argument needed to extract a physical picture from a mathematical formalism.
Sprouty2 inhibition promotes proliferation and migration of periodontal ligament cells
Authors: Tanaka U , Sanui T , Fukuda T , Toyoda K , Taketomi T , Atomura R , Yamamichi K , Maeda H , Nishimura F
Published: September 2015

Objectives

We previously demonstrated that a dominant‐negative Sprouty2 (Spry2) mutation promotes osteoblast proliferation and differentiation after basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) and epidermal growth factor (EGF) stimulation, whereas it diminishes proliferation of gingival epithelial cells, thereby inducing favourable conditions for periodontal tissue regeneration. In this study, we investigated how Spry2 inhibition affects the cellular physiology of periodontal ligament (PDL) cells.

Methods

A total of 1‐17 PDL cells (multipotent clonal human PDL cell line) were stimulated with bFGF and EGF after transfection of Spry2 siRNA. Cell proliferation, migration, ALP staining, real‐time PCR, Western blot and immunofluorescence assays were performed.

Results

ERK1/2 activation and proliferation of 1‐17 PDL cells were significantly upregulated by the addition of Spry2 siRNA in the presence of bFGF and EGF. In addition, Spry2 siRNA reduced transcription of osteogenesis‐related genes and ALP staining relative to control cells. Furthermore, it increased AKT/phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase (PI3K) phosphorylation; consequently, Rac1 but not Cdc42 was activated, thereby promoting lamellipodia formation, cell proliferation and migration after stimulation by bFGF and EGF.

Conclusion

Spry2 combined with bFGF and EGF stimulation reduced PDL cell migration and proliferation with inducing osteoblastic differentiation. These in vitro findings may provide a molecular basis for novel therapeutic approaches for establishing periodontal tissue regeneration.
The textural discontinuity hypothesis: an exploration at a regional level. Shortened version: exploring Holling's TDH
Authors: Raffaelli Dave , Hardiman Alice , Smart Jim , Yamanaka Tsuyuko , White Piran C. L.
Published: September 2015

Dominant physical and biological processes in ecosystems occur at specific scales of space and time. The life‐spans and the life‐spaces (areas used by species over their lifetime) become entrained to operate at similar scales. Because life‐spans and life‐spaces are related to body size, ecosystems display polymodality in body size distributions: Holling's textural discontinuity hypothesis, TDH. Falsification of the TDH requires either changing the frequencies of the dominant processes or changing the species. Both are difficult to achieve for regional‐scale faunas, but the transformation of the terrestrial fauna of New Zealand by humans over the past 800 years provides an opportunity to explore the effect of changing the species. Our analyses of the pre and post first‐contact with humans assemblages show that species body size spectra are polymodal and similar (the spectrum is conservative in shape), both pre‐ and post‐spectra exhibiting three distinct modes, despite significant changes in the taxonomic make‐up of the fauna. Our findings are consistent with the TDH, but not consistent with other known competing explanations. There is also a compelling case that invasions and introductions have been more successful in the body size range that falls between modes. This is also consistent with the TDH, but not necessarily at odds with explanations based on propagule pressure.
The highs and lows of dispersal: how connectivity and initial population size jointly shape establishment dynamics in discrete landscapes
Authors: Morel‐Journel Thibaut , Girod Pierre , Mailleret Ludovic , Auguste Alexandra , Blin Aurélie , Vercken Elodie
Published: September 2015

Identifying the main factors driving introduced populations to establishment is a major challenge of invasion biology. Due to their small initial size, introduced populations are most vulnerable to extinction because of demographic stochasticity or Allee effects. While an increase in initial population size is known to increase establishment success, much remains to be understood regarding its interplay with connectivity in spatially structured environments. In order to better understand how demographic mechanisms interact at such spatial scale, we developed a stochastic model of population dynamics in discrete space to investigate the effect of connectivity and initial population size on establishment. The predictions derived from the model were then tested using experimental introductions of an insect parasitoid (Trichogramma chilonis) in spatially structured laboratory microcosms. Both theoretical and experimental results demonstrated that the connectivity of the introduction site had 1) a deleterious effect in the first generation when the introduced population was small and 2) a beneficial impact brought about by metapopulation effects in the subsequent generations. Interestingly, populations displayed a weakly pushed invasion pattern promoting early establishment, which was mainly underpinned by dispersal stochasticity and the discrete nature of the landscape. These results shed light on the critical influence of landscape connectivity on establishment dynamics.
The biodiversity–ecosystem service relationship in urban areas: a quantitative review
Authors: Ziter Carly
Published: September 2015

By 2050, up to 75% of people globally will live in cities. Despite the potential ramifications of this urbanization for ecosystem services (ES), and the importance of locally produced ES for the health and wellbeing of urban residents, syntheses addressing the underlying ecology of ES provision rarely include urban areas. Here, I conduct a quantitative review of urban ES studies in the ecological literature, synthesizing trends across the discipline. I also quantify the extent to which this work considers the organisms and ecosystem components responsible for ES provision using two approaches: assessment of biodiversity–ES relationships, and an adaptation of the service provider concept. The majority of urban ES studies were conducted in western, developed countries, and typically assessed a single service in a single city – largely ignoring ES synergies and tradeoffs, and cross‐city comparisons. While several different ES are studied in urban ecosystems, the field is dominated by weather and climate‐related regulating services, with assessments of cultural services particularly lacking. Most studies described a habitat type as the service provider; however, studies that considered the biodiversity–ES relationship were more likely to identify a specific functional group, community, or population as the key provider of an ES. The biodiversity–ES relationship itself was most frequently characterized as dependent on the composition of species, functional traits, or structures, rather than correlated with the magnitude of any specific biodiversity metric. While the study of ES in urban ecosystems is increasing, there exists considerable room for further research. Future studies would benefit by expanding the number and categories of ES assessed within and across cities, as well as broadening the geographical scope of urban ES research. Biodiversity–ES assessments in urban ecosystems would also benefit from an expansion of the biodiversity types considered, particularly regarding non‐species based approaches, and consideration of non‐native and invasive species.

Synthesis

Urban ecosystem services (ES) affect the health and wellbeing of over 3.5 billion people who live in cities. However, syntheses addressing ES provision rarely include urban areas. I conducted the first quantitative review focused explicitly on the ecology of urban ES, including the role of biodiversity in service provision. I found that studies typically measure only a single service in one city, precluding assessment of ES synergies, tradeoffs, and cross‐city comparisons. I also found that while most studies attribute ES provision to a habitat or land‐use type, studies that consider biodiversity‐ES relationships are more likely to recognize a specific functional group, community, or population as the key provider of an ES.
Amino Acid–Porphyrin Conjugates: Synthesis and Study of their Photophysical and Metal Ion Recognition Properties
Authors: Paul Albish K. , Karunakaran Suneesh C. , Joseph Joshy , Ramaiah Danaboyina
Published: September 2015

Synthesis, photophysical and metal ion recognition properties of a series of amino acid‐linked free‐base and Zn‐porphyrin derivatives (5–9) are reported. These porphyrin derivatives showed favorable photophysical properties including high molar extinction coefficients (>1 × 105 m−1 cm−1 for the Soret band), quantum yields of triplet excited states (63–94%) and singlet oxygen generation efficiencies (59–91%). Particularly, the Zn‐porphyrin derivatives, 6 and 9 showed higher molar extinction coefficients, decreased fluorescence quantum yields, and higher triplet and singlet oxygen quantum yields compared to the corresponding free‐base porphyrin derivatives. Further, the study of their interactions with various metal ions indicated that the proline‐conjugated Zn‐porphyrins (6 and 9) showed high selectivity toward Cu2+ ions and signaled the recognition through changes in fluorescence intensity. Our results provide insights on the role of nature of amino acid and metallation in the design of the porphyrin systems for application as probes and sensitizers.
Protective Effect of Dermal Brimonidine Applications Against UV Radiation‐induced Skin Tumors, Epidermal Hyperplasia and Cell Proliferation in the Skin of Hairless Mice
Authors: Bouvier Guy , Learn Douglas B. , Nonne Christelle , Feraille Gérard , Vial Emmanuel , Ruty Bernard
Published: September 2015

Brimonidine at 0.18%, 1% and 2% concentrations applied topically in hairless mice significantly decreased tumor burden and incidences of erythema, flaking, wrinkling and skin thickening induced by UVR. The unbiased median week to tumor ≥1 mm was increased by the 1% and 2% concentrations. The tumor yield was reduced by all concentrations at week 40 for all tumor sizes but the ≥4 mm tumors with the 0.18% concentration. At week 52, the tumor yield was reduced for all tumor sizes and all brimonidine concentrations. The tumor incidence was reduced by all concentrations at week 40 for all tumor sizes, but the ≥4 mm tumor with the 0.18% concentration and at week 52 for all tumor sizes with the 1% and 2% concentrations and with the 0.18% concentration only for the ≥4 mm tumors. Reductions in ≥4 mm tumor incidences compared to the vehicle control group were 54%, 91% and 86% by week 52 for the 0.18%, 1% and 2% concentrations, respectively. Brimonidine at 2% applied 1 h before or just after UVB irradiation on hairless mice decreased epidermal hyperplasia by 23% and 32% and epithelial cell proliferation by 59% and 64%, respectively, similar to an epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor.
When death is not a problem: Regulating implicit negative affect under mortality salience
Authors: Lüdecke Christina , Baumann Nicola
Published: September 2015

Terror management theory assumes that death arouses existential anxiety in humans which is suppressed in focal attention. Whereas most studies provide indirect evidence for negative affect under mortality salience by showing cultural worldview defenses and self‐esteem strivings, there is only little direct evidence for implicit negative affect under mortality salience. In the present study, we assume that this implicit affective reaction towards death depends on people's ability to self‐regulate negative affect as assessed by the personality dimension of action versus state orientation. Consistent with our expectations, action‐oriented participants judged artificial words to express less negative affect under mortality salience compared to control conditions whereas state‐oriented participants showed the reversed pattern.
Potential use of OCT‐based microangiography in clinical dermatology
Authors: Baran U. , Choi W. J. , Wang R. K.
Published: September 2015

Background

Optical coherence tomography (OCT) is a revolutionary imaging technique used commonly in ophthalmology, and on the way to become clinically viable alternative in dermatology due to its capability of acquiring histopathology level details of in vivo tissue, non‐invasively. In this study, we demonstrate the capabilities of OCT‐based microangiography in detecting high resolution, three‐dimensional structural, and microvascular features of in vivo human skin with various conditions.

Methods

A swept‐source OCT system that operates on a central wavelength of 1310 nm with an A‐line rate of 100 kHz is used in this study. We apply optical microangiography (OMAG) technique to visualize the structural and microvascular changes in tissue.

Results

OMAG images provide detailed visualization of functional microvasculature of healthy human skin from cheek and forehead areas, abnormal skin conditions from face, chest and belly. Moreover, OMAG is capable of monitoring the progress of wound healing on human skin from arm, delivering unprecedented detail of microstructural and microvascular information during longitudinal wound healing process.

Conclusion

The presented results promise the clinical use of OCT angiography, aiming to treat prevalent cutaneous diseases, by detecting blood perfusion, and structural changes within human skin, in vivo.
RECA plays a dual role in the maintenance of chloroplast genome stability in Physcomitrella patens
Authors: Odahara Masaki , Inouye Takayuki , Nishimura Yoshiki , Sekine Yasuhiko
Published: September 2015

Chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) encodes essential genes for chloroplast functions, including photosynthesis. Homologous recombination occurs frequently in cpDNA; however, its significance and underlying mechanism remain poorly understood. In this study, we analyzed the role of a nuclear‐encoded chloroplast‐localized homolog of RecA recombinase, which is a key factor in homologous recombination in bacteria, in the moss Physcomitrella patens. Complete knockout (KO) of the P. patens chloroplast RecA homolog RECA2 caused a modest growth defect and conferred sensitivity to methyl methanesulfonate and UV. The KO mutant exhibited low recovery of cpDNA from methyl methanesulfonate damage, suggesting that RECA2 knockout impairs repair of damaged cpDNA. The RECA2 KO mutant also exhibited reduced cpDNA copy number and an elevated level of cpDNA molecule resulting from aberrant recombination between short dispersed repeats (13–63 bp), indicating that the RECA2 KO chloroplast genome was destabilized. Taken together, these data suggest a dual role for RECA2 in the maintenance of chloroplast genome stability: RECA2 suppresses aberrant recombination between short dispersed repeats and promotes repair of damaged DNA.
Transthecal Arthroscopy of the Palmar Distal Interphalangeal Joint in the Horse: A Cadaver Study
Authors: Rubio‐Martínez Luis M. , Bracamonte Jose L. , Tompkins Samantha , Villarino Nicolás F.
Published: September 2015

Objective

To describe a transthecal approach to the palmar pouch of the distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) in horses and compare it with the conventional blind arthroscopic technique.

Study Design

Ex vivo study.

Sample Population

Cadaver forelimbs (n = 26 pairs) from mature horses.

Methods

One limb from each pair was randomly assigned to each arthroscopic approach (conventional or transthecal). The conventional arthroscopic approach was performed as previously described and the transthecal approach was performed through sharp dissection of the distal reflection of the digital flexor tendon sheath (DFTS). The proportion (0–100%) of the navicular bone, palmar aspect of the condyles of the 2nd phalanx, collateral sesamoidean ligaments, and palmar synovial pouches of the DIPJ visualized by each approach was estimated. Limbs were dissected and iatrogenic damage of relevant structures was assessed. Nondirectional Mann–Whitney U‐test was used to compare groups. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

The transthecal approach provided greater visualization of the navicular bone (P < .001), palmar aspect of the 2nd phalanx (P < .001), and palmar synovial pouches of the DIPJ (P < .001) than the conventional approach. There were no significant differences in iatrogenic damage between approaches.

Conclusion

The transthecal approach provides improved visualization of the palmar aspect of the DIPJ compared to the conventional blind approach and may be useful in nonseptic conditions of the DIPJ. However, because of the creation of communication with the DFTS, use of the transthecal approach for suspected synovial sepsis of the DIPJ may be contraindicated.