bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combining geometric morphometrics with molecular genetics to investigate a putative hybrid complex: a case study with barbels Barbus spp. (Teleostei: Cyprinidae)
Authors: Geiger M. F. , Schreiner C. , Delmastro G. B. , Herder F.
Published: January 2016

This integrative study examined the morphological and genetic affinities of three endemic barbel species from Italy (brook barbel Barbus caninus, Italian barbel Barbus plebejus and horse barbel Barbus tyberinus) and of putative hybrid specimens to their species of origin. Two of the species frequently occur together with the non‐native barbel Barbus barbus. DNA barcoding indicates that mitochondrial (mt) haplotypes often do not match the species expected from morphology. Linear distance measurements and meristics are not informative for discrimination of the species and putative hybrids, but a discriminant analysis of principal components (DAPC) of geometric landmark data produces reassignments largely in congruence with mt and nuclear genetic data. Cyto‐nuclear conflicts confirm the presence of hybridization in B. plebejus and B. tyberinus and identify additional introgressed specimens. A comparison between mixed genotypes and their morphology‐based assignment reveals no predictable pattern. The finding that most individuals of the morphologically similar B. plebejus and B. tyberinus have very high assignment probabilities to their respective species suggests that the presented approach may serve as a valuable tool to distinguish morphologically very similar taxa.
Life histories of two deep‐water Australian endemic elasmobranchs: Argus skate Dipturus polyommata and eastern spotted gummy shark Mustelus walkeri
Authors: Rigby C. L. , White W. T. , Smart J. J. , Simpfendorfer C. A.
Published: January 2016

Two Australian endemic elasmobranchs, the Argus skate Dipturus polyommata and the eastern spotted gummy shark Mustelus walkeri, were collected from the by‐catch of a prawn Melicertus plebejus trawl fishery off Queensland. Age and growth parameters were estimated from growth band counts in vertebral sections of 220 D. polyommata and 44 M. walkeri. Dipturus polyommata males and females had an observed maximum age of 10 years and reached maximum sizes of 369 and 371 mm total length (LT), respectively. Mustelus walkeri lived longer, with the oldest female aged 16 years and measuring 1050 mm stretched total length (LST), and oldest male aged 9 years and 805 mm LST. Dipturus polyommata grew relatively fast with a von Bertalanffy growth completion parameter of k = 0·208 year−1 with males reaching maturity at 4·0 years (c. 278 mm LT) and females at 5·1 years (c. 305 mm LT). Mustelus walkeri grew more slowly with k = 0·033 year−1 with males estimated to mature at 7–9 years (670–805 mm LST) and females at 10–14 years (833–1012 mm LST). Length at birth inferred from neonate D. polyommata was 89–111 mm LT while for M. walkeri it was estimated to be 273 LST based on the value of L0 from the von Bertalanffy growth model. Both species appeared to have continuous reproductive cycles and low fecundity with an average ovarian fecundity of eight follicles for D. polyommata and a litter size of five to seven pups for M. walkeri. Based on these life‐history traits, D. polyommata is more resilient to fishing pressure than M. walkeri.
Harnessing Protocolized Adaptation in Dissemination: Successful Implementation and Sustainment of the Veterans Affairs Coordinated‐Transitional Care Program in a Non‐Veterans Affairs Hospital
Authors: Kind Amy J. H. , Brenny‐Fitzpatrick Maria , Leahy‐Gross Kris , Mirr Jacquelyn , Chapman Elizabeth , Frey Brooke , Houlahan Beth
Published: January 2016

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Coordinated‐Transitional Care (C‐TraC) program is a low‐cost transitional care program that uses hospital‐based nurse case managers, inpatient team integration, and in‐depth posthospital telephone contacts to support high‐risk patients and their caregivers as they transition from hospital to community. The low‐cost, primarily telephone‐based C‐TraC program reduced 30‐day rehospitalizations by one‐third, leading to significant cost savings at one VA hospital. Non‐VA hospitals have expressed interest in launching C‐TraC, but non‐VA hospitals differ in important ways from VA hospitals, particularly in terms of context, culture, and resources. The objective of this project was to adapt C‐TraC to the specific context of one non‐VA setting using a modified Replicating Effective Programs (REP) implementation theory model and to test the feasibility of this protocolized implementation approach. The modified REP model uses a mentored phased‐based implementation with intensive preimplementation activities and harnesses key local stakeholders to adapt processes and goals to local context. Using this protocolized implementation approach, an adapted C‐TraC protocol was created and launched at the non‐VA hospital in July 2013. In its first 16 months, C‐TraC successfully enrolled 1,247 individuals with 3.2 full‐time nurse case managers, achieving good fidelity for core protocol steps. C‐TraC participants experienced a 30‐day rehospitalization rate of 10.8%, compared with 16.6% for a contemporary comparison group of similar individuals for whom C‐TraC was not available (n = 1,307) (P < .001). The new C‐TraC program continues in operation. Use of a modified REP model to guide protocolized adaptation to local context resulted in a C‐TraC program that was feasible and sustained in a real‐world non‐VA setting. A modified REP implementation framework may be an appropriate foundational step for other clinical programs seeking to harness protocolized adaptation in mentored dissemination activities.
Behind Closed Doors: Involuntary Treatment in Care of Persons with Cognitive Impairment at Home in the Netherlands
Authors: Hamers Jan P. H. , Bleijlevens Michel H. C. , Gulpers Math J. M. , Verbeek Hilde
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To explore the prevalence and associated factors of involuntary treatment (physical restraints, psychotropic medication, nonconsensual care) in persons with cognitive impairment receiving home care.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey using association analyses.

Setting

Professional home care in the southern part of the Netherlands.

Participants

Data were collected on 837 persons with cognitive impairment (mean age 81.6; 60% female).

Measurements

Involuntary treatment was measured using a tool to identify physical restraints, psychotropic medication, and nonconsensual care. Activities of daily living (ADLs) were measured using the ADL Hierarchy subscale of the Resident Assistant Instrument—Minimum Data Set and cognitive status using the Cognitive Performance Scale. Informal caregiver burden was assessed using the Self‐Perceived Pressure from Informal Care Scale.

Results

Involuntary treatment was used in 39% of the total sample. Most common were nonconsensual care (79%; e.g., concealing medication in food, forcing hygiene) and psychotropic medication (41%). In 7% of the sample, physical restraints (e.g., deep or overturned chair, bilateral full‐enclosure bedrails) were used. Caregiver burden, ADL dependency, cognitive status, living alone, and a diagnosis of dementia were strongly associated with involuntary treatment. The family of the person with cognitive impairment most often requested the use of involuntary treatment.

Conclusion

Involuntary treatment is often used in persons with cognitive impairment receiving home care in the Netherlands. Future research should focus on understanding and preventing inappropriate involuntary treatment in home care.
Comprehensive Regional Eco‐Efficiency Analysis Based on Data Envelopment Analysis: The Case of Polish Regions
Authors: Masternak‐Janus Aneta , Rybaczewska‐Błażejowska Magdalena
Published: January 2016

This article examines the concept of eco‐efficiency at a regional level as an approach to promote the sustainable transformation of regions, using the regions of Poland as an example. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) method—the input‐oriented Charnes, Cooper, and Rhodes (CCR) model—was chosen as the eco‐efficiency analysis tool because of its high capability to measure the regional eco‐efficiency. The research process was divided into two stages. First, the chosen instruments of mathematical statistics (e.g., Hellwig's method and coefficient of determination) were applied to ensure an appropriate combination of environmental and economic indicators of the eco‐efficiency equation. Next, the CCR model was used to calculate the eco‐efficiency scores. The results of the study have revealed that the regions of Lubuskie, Mazowieckie, Śląskie, Warmińsko‐Maurskie, and Wielkopolskie are relatively eco‐efficient, whereas the remaining regions use too many environmental resources in relation to the produced value of goods and services. Six of the eleven eco‐inefficient regions in Poland have increasing returns to scale, that is, the usage of natural resources connected with the negative impact upon the environment rises slower than the values of goods and services. Notwithstanding, it is beneficiary from the perspective of sustainability. The obtained research results are a valuable source of management information for the creation of regional environmental protection strategies and a basis for searching for the causes of eco‐inefficiency.
Backscattered electron image of osmium‐impregnated/macerated tissues as a novel technique for identifying the cis‐face of the Golgi apparatus by high‐resolution scanning electron microscopy
Authors: KOGA D. , BOCHIMOTO H. , WATANABE T. , USHIKI T.
Published: January 2016

The osmium maceration method with scanning electron microscopy (SEM) enabled to demonstrate directly the three‐dimensional (3D) structure of membranous cell organelles. However, the polarity of the Golgi apparatus (that is, the cis–trans axis) can hardly be determined by SEM alone, because there is no appropriate immunocytochemical method for specific labelling of its cis‐ or trans‐faces. In the present study, we used the osmium impregnation method, which forms deposits of reduced osmium exclusively in the cis‐Golgi elements, for preparation of specimens for SEM. The newly developed procedure combining osmium impregnation with subsequent osmium maceration specifically visualised the cis‐elements of the Golgi apparatus, with osmium deposits that were clearly detected by backscattered electron‐mode SEM. Prolonged osmication by osmium impregnation (2% OsO4 solution at 40°C for 40 h) and osmium maceration (0.1% OsO4 solution at 20°C for 24 h) did not significantly impair the 3D ultrastructure of the membranous cell organelles, including the Golgi apparatus. This novel preparation method enabled us to determine the polarity of the Golgi apparatus with enough information about the surrounding 3D ultrastructure by SEM, and will contribute to our understanding of the global organisation of the entire Golgi apparatus in various differentiated cells.
Dissecting striatal adenosine‐cannabinoid receptor interactions. New clues from rats over‐expressing adenosine A2A receptors
Authors: Ferré Sergi , Sebastião Ana Maria
Published: January 2016

image

This Editorial highlights a study by Chiodi et al. () showing that the effects mediated by cannabinoid CB1 receptor (CB1R) activation in the striatum are significantly reduced in rats with neuronal over‐expression of adenosine A2A receptors (A2AR). Two hypotheses are derived from that study. Hypothesis A: two subpopulations of pre‐synaptic CB1R in corticostriatal glutamatergic terminals exist, one forming and another not forming heteromers with A2AR. Hypothesis B: CB1R are predominantly forming heteromers with A2AR. In the case of hypothesis A, the A2AR might be required for CB1R‐A2AR heteromeric signaling, whereas non‐heteromeric CB1R activity is inhibited by A2ARs. In the case of hypothesis B, up‐regulation of A2ARs may perturb heteromeric stoichiometry, thus reducing CB1R functioning. In any case, pre‐synaptic striatal A2AR‐CB1R heteromers emerge as important targets of the effects of cannabinoids demonstrated at the neuronal and behavioral level.

Read the highlighted article ‘Striatal adenosine‐cannabinoid receptor interactions in rats over‐expressing adenosine A2A receptors’ on page 907.
Business Statesman or Shareholder Advocate? CEO Responsible Leadership Styles and the Micro‐Foundations of Political CSR
Authors: Maak Thomas , Pless Nicola M. , Voegtlin Christian
Published: January 2016

In this article we pursue two objectives. First, we refine the concept of responsible leadership from an upper echelon perspective by exploring two distinct styles (instrumental and integrative) and thereby further developing the understanding of the newly emerging integrative style. Second, we propose a framework that examines the micro‐foundations of political corporate social responsibility (CSR). We explicate how the political CSR engagement of organizations (in social innovation and multi‐stakeholder initiatives) is influenced by responsible leadership styles and posit that most CEOs tend to espouse either instrumental or integrative responsible leadership approaches, based on perceived moral obligations toward shareholders or stakeholders. We examine the moderating effects of societal‐ and organizational‐level factors (such as power distance and corporate governance), and individual‐level influences (such as cognitive and social complexity). We discuss both approaches with respect to their effectiveness in dealing with political CSR challenges in a complex environment and conclude that an instrumental responsible leadership style may be effective in relatively stable settings with strong institutional arrangements, while the complex and unstable context of a post‐national constellation with weak institutions calls for an integrative responsible leadership style. The latter can be expected to be more effective in dealing with political CSR challenges in a global world, contributing to closing governance gaps and producing sustainable outcomes for societies.
Interim Prosthesis Options for Dental Implants
Authors: Siadat Hakimeh , Alikhasi Marzieh , Beyabanaki Elaheh
Published: January 2016

Dental implants have become a popular treatment modality for replacing missing teeth. In this regard, the importance of restoring patients with function during the implant healing period has grown in recent decades. Esthetic concerns, especially in the anterior region of the maxilla, should also be considered until the definitive restoration is delivered. Another indication for such restorations is maintenance of the space required for esthetic and functional definitive restorations in cases where the implant site is surrounded by natural teeth. Numerous articles have described different types of interim prostheses and their fabrication techniques. This article aims to briefly discuss all types of implant‐related interim prostheses by different classification including provisional timing (before implant placement, after implant placement in unloading and loading periods), materials, and techniques used for making the restorations, the type of interim prosthesis retention, and definitive restoration. Furthermore, the abutment torque for such restorations and methods for transferring the soft tissue from interim to definitive prostheses are addressed.
Personality Traits Predict the Developmental Course of Externalizing: A Four‐Wave Longitudinal Study Spanning Age 17 to Age 29
Authors: Walton Kate E. , Krueger Robert F. , Elkins Irene , D'Accordo Cassandra , McGue Matt , Iacono William G.
Published: January 2016

The objective of the present study was to determine whether and how personality predicts the developmental course of externalizing problems, including antisocial behavior and substance dependence. In a large, population‐based longitudinal study (N = 1,252), the 11 personality traits assessed by the Multidimensional Personality Questionnaire were measured at age 17, and DSM diagnoses of adult antisocial behavior, alcohol dependence, and drug dependence were obtained at ages 17, 20, 24, and 29. We fit a quadratic multiple indicator latent growth model where the three diagnoses loaded onto an externalizing factor. This model fit the data well, and externalizing increased until it started to decline at age 24. High aggression and low control were the most significant predictors of the development of externalizing, with aggression playing a significant role in the development of externalizing across the 12‐year time span, and control predicting the development from age 17 to 24. The findings highlight the importance of considering the developmental course of externalizing in the context of personality and suggest that the specific personality traits of aggression and control might be targeted in externalizing prevention and intervention programs.
Influence of type and proportion of lyoprotectants on lyophilized ginsenoside Rg3 liposomes
Authors: Li Jianying , Hu Meina , Xu Huan , Yu Xiu , Ye Feifei , Wang Kaiqian , Luan Xiaojiao , Li Ling , Zhang Di
Published: January 2016

Objectives

To improve stability and shelf life, lyophilized formulations of 20(R)-Ginsenoside Rg3 liposomes (G-Rg3-Ls) were prepared.

Methods

Glucose, trehalose, sucrose, maltose, lactose, mannitol, inositol, hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin and polyethylene glycol were used as single lyoprotectant and then compared in terms of their ability to protect lyophilized G-Rg3-Ls. Further, a glucose–mannitol complex was used to determine the optimal lyophilized preparation. The analysis of lyophilized liposomes or lyoprotectant was further investigated by scanning electron microscopy, thermogravimetry-differential thermal analysis, X-ray diffractometry and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Cytotoxicity assay was used to assess the cyto-inhibition of freshly prepared and lyophilized liposomes.

Key findings

When the ratio of glucose–mannitol to phospholipids was 4 : 2 : 1 (w/w) the lyophilized G-Rg3-Ls exhibited good appearance, high DRR (86.52% ± 5.02%), small change in particle size (45.83 ± 0.50%) and short rehydration reconstruction time (8.3 ± 1.5 s). All indices were considerably better than those of each single protective agent. Results indicated that when the two lyoprotectants were combined, the stabilizing effect of glucose and shaping effect of mannitol were well maintained. The cyto-inhibition of freshly prepared and lyophilized G-Rg3 liposomes showed that lyophilization did not affect the bioactivity of G-Rg3.

Conclusions

The application of glucose–mannitol composite lyoprotectants can obtain a good G-Rg3 lyophilized preparation.
Biodistribution, hypouricemic efficacy and therapeutic mechanism of morin phospholipid complex loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems in an experimental hyperuricemic model in rats
Authors: Zhang Jinjie , Shuai Xiao , Li Jianbo , Xiang Nanxi , Gong Tao , Zhang Zhirong
Published: January 2016

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the biodistribution and hypouricemic efficacy of morin and morin-phospholipid complex loaded self-nanoemulsifying drug delivery systems (MPC-SNEDDS), as well as to explore their therapeutic mechanisms.

Methods

We studied the biodistribution of morin and MPC-SNEDDS after they were orally administered to rats. The hypouricemic efficacy and the therapeutic mechanisms of morin and MPC-SNEDDS were evaluated using potassium oxonate-induced hyperuricemic model in rats.

Key findings

With enhanced morin concentration in liver and kidney, oral delivery of MPC-SNEDDS exhibited significantly stronger urate-lowering effect in hyperuricemic rats than morin. The hypouricemic efficacy of morin was due to reduced production of uric acid via inhibiting the mRNA expression of hepatic xanthine dehydrogenase/xanthine oxidase (XDH/XO), as well as decreased urate reabsorption via modulating the alteration of mRNA levels of glucose transporter (mGLUT9), renal organic anion transporter 1 (mOAT1) and uric acid transporter (mURAT1). MPC-SNEDDS dually inhibited mRNA expression and activity of hepatic XDH/XO and restored the dysregulation of renal mGLUT9, mOAT1 and mURAT1, contributing to its superior urate-lowering efficacy.

Conclusion

The results demonstrated the great potential of MPC-SNEDDS as an alternative oral strategy for active agents in treating hyperuricemia.
The C-terminal tails of 4,4'-diphenylmethane-bis(methyl) carbamate are essential for binding to receptor for advanced glycation end products to attenuate advanced glycation end products-induced inflammation and apoptosis responses in human umbilical vein endothelial cells
Authors: Feng Liang , Zhu Mao-mao , Bu Wei-quan , Wang Chun-fei , Zheng Zhao-guang , Wang Ru-shang , Jia Xiao-bin , Zhu Quan
Published: January 2016

Objectives

A novel compound 4,4'-diphenylmethane-bis(methyl) carbamate (CM1) was shown to possess preventive activity on AGEs-induced human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) damage via binding to RAGE. However, the underlying structural basis of CM1 on binding to RAGE was not fully understood.

Methods

In the present study, CM1 analogues were designed and synthesized to compare the activity differences on inhibiting AGEs-induced inflammatory response including TGF-β1, RAGE protein expression in HUVECs, and macrophages migration and adhesion to HUVECs. In addition, the cell viability and anti-apoptosis activities of CM1 analogues were also examined.

Key findings

These results indicated that CM1 had higher activities on preventing AGEs-induced HUVECs damage (inflammation, cell viability and apoptosis) than other analogues. The bioaffinity assay was conducted by CMC and demonstrated that the IC50 and dissociation equilibrium constants (Kd) of CM1 were lower whereas the Bmax was higher than other analogues. The incubation of RAGE protein with CM1 analogues by equilibrium dialysis method showed CM1 had a stronger binding rate than other CM1 analogues.

Conclusion

Our findings suggested that the C-terminal tails (methoxycarbonyl groups) of CM1 were the active groups for binding to RAGE and then led to the attenuation on RAGE-mediated endothelial dysfunction.
Towards a Psychology of Global Consciousness Through an Ethical Conception of Self in Society
Authors: Liu James H. , Macdonald Matthew
Published: January 2016

Globalization has brought people around the world closer together in ways that have created greater uncertainty in their identity politics. This has sometimes strengthened local identities, despite attempts to create ‘universal’ forms of identity that impose one standard of appropriate conduct in the face of difference. Drawing from Dialogical Self Theory and from cosmopolitanism, we propose that adequately responding to the ethical and identity challenges presented by globalization requires having Global Consciousness: “a knowledge of both the interconnectedness and difference of humankind, and a will to take moral actions in a reflexive manner on its behalf”. We argue that this approach can ground a distinctively normative psychology of globalization. We consider negative and positive aspects of the golden rule in equal and close relationships, and benevolence in unequal power relationships as behaviour guides for global consciousness, and theorize about institutional leadership that supports the provision of public goods. We offer empirical tests of this approach.
The Behavior of Amaranth, Chickpea, Millet, Corn, Quinoa, Buckwheat and Rice Doughs Under Shear Oscillatory and Uniaxial Elongational Tests Simulating Proving and Baking
Authors: Burešová Iva , Kubínek Roman
Published: January 2016

Shear oscillatory and uniaxial elongational tests performed at 30C were used to simulate gluten‐free dough proving; shear oscillatory temperature ramp (30–90C) was used to simulate baking. In test simulating initial stages of proving the differences in wheat and gluten‐free dough (amaranth, buckwheat, chickpea, corn, quinoa, millet and rice) behavior were most evident from the higher values of elastic (105 Pa) and viscous moduli (104 Pa) of gluten‐free doughs compared with the values of elastic (104 Pa) and viscous moduli (103 Pa) of wheat dough. During later stages of proving, the region of elastic, time‐dependent viscoelastic and viscous deformations of gluten‐free doughs were very narrow, and moreover varied among the investigated gluten‐free doughs. The stress required for dough rupture also differed among the tested gluten‐free doughs. While rice, quinoa and millet dough ruptured under the stress of 10.6 kPa, 9.5 kPa and 9.2 kPa, respectively, significantly the lower stresses were required to rupture chickpea (4.9 kPa), amaranth (4.7 kPa), buckwheat (4.0 kPa) and corn (3.2 kPa) dough. Hencky strains at the moment of gluten‐free doughs rupture were, however, quite similar (0.6–0.7). During oscillatory test simulating baking, complex viscosity of gluten‐free doughs was up to 2–3 log cycles higher than the viscosity of wheat dough.

Practical Applications

The results confirmed known significant differences between the behavior of gluten‐free and wheat doughs, which occurred during proving as well as baking. Compared with wheat gluten proteins, network in gluten‐free doughs exhibited high values of elastic and viscous moduli, narrow region of elastic, time‐dependent viscoelastic and viscous deformations, as well as high peak complex viscosity during heating. This behavior indicated lower gluten‐free dough ability to increase the gas‐dough interface area and to accumulate leavening gas in pores, which may decrease the bread‐making quality of gluten‐free doughs. Moreover, the differences in the behavior among gluten‐free doughs were described. It can be assumed the differences are in close relationship with the characteristics of arabinoxylan networks. The results are practically applicable in gluten‐free dough quality testing as well as in the development of new formulas aimed at the improvement of the quality of yeast‐leavened gluten‐free bread.
Update on Canine and Feline Blood Donor Screening for Blood‐Borne Pathogens
Authors: Wardrop K.J. , Birkenheuer A. , Blais M.C. , Callan M.B. , Kohn B. , Lappin M.R. , Sykes J.
Published: January 2016

An update on the 2005 American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine (ACVIM) Consensus Statement on blood donor infectious disease screening was presented at the 2015ACVIMForum in Indianapolis, Indiana, followed by panel and audience discussion. The updated consensus statement is presented below. The consensus statement aims to provide guidance on appropriate blood‐borne pathogen testing for canine and feline blood donors in North America.
Inflammatory Airway Disease of Horses—Revised Consensus Statement
Authors: Couëtil L.L. , Cardwell J.M. , Gerber V. , Lavoie J.‐P. , Léguillette R. , Richard E.A.
Published: January 2016

The purpose of this manuscript is to revise and update the previous consensus statement on inflammatory airway disease (IAD) in horses. Since 2007, a large number of scientific articles have been published on the topic and these new findings have led to a significant evolution of our understanding of IAD.
Chemistry and oxygen isotopic composition of cluster chondrite clasts and their components in LL3 chondrites
Authors: Metzler Knut , Pack Andreas
Published: January 2016

Cluster chondrites are characterized by close‐fit textures of deformed and indented chondrules, taken as evidence for hot chondrule accretion (Metzler ). We investigated seven cluster chondrite clasts from six brecciated LL3 chondrites and measured their bulk oxygen isotopic and chemical composition, including REE, Zr, and Hf. The same parameters were measured in situ on 93 chondrules and 4 interchondrule matrix areas. The CI‐normalized REE patterns of the clasts are flat, showing LL‐chondritic concentrations. The mean chemical compositions of chondrules in clasts and other LL chondrites are indistinguishable and we conclude that cluster chondrite chondrules are representative of the normal LL chondrule population. Type II chondrules are depleted in MgO, Al2O3 and refractory lithophiles (REE, Zr, Hf) by factors between 0.65 and 0.79 compared to type I chondrules. The chondrule REE patterns are basically flat with slight LREE < HREE fractionations. Many chondrules exhibit negative Eu anomalies while matrix shows a complementary pattern. Chondrules scatter along a correlation line with a slope of 0.63 in the oxygen 3‐isotope diagram, interpreted as the result of O‐isotope exchange between chondrule melts and 18O‐rich nebular components. In one clast, a distinct anticorrelation between chondrule size and δ18O is found, which may indicate a more intense oxygen isotope exchange by smaller chondrules. In some clasts the δ18O values of type I chondrules are correlated with concentrations of SiO2 and MnO and anticorrelated with MgO, possibly due to the admixture of a SiO2‐ and MnO‐rich component to chondrule melts during oxygen isotope exchange. Two chondrules with negative anomalies in Sm, Eu, and Yb were found and may relate their precursors to refractory material known from group III CAIs. Furthermore, three chondrules with strong LREE > HREE and Zr/Hf fractionations were detected, whose formation history remains to be explained.
Determination of volatile concentrations in fluorapatite of Martian shergottite NWA 2975 by combining synchrotron FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, EMPA, and TEM, and inferences on the volatile budget of the apatite host‐magma
Authors: Słaby Ewa , Koch‐Müller Monika , Förster Hans‐Jürgen , Wirth Richard , Rhede Dieter , Schreiber Anja , Schade Ulrich
Published: January 2016

We combined the focused ion beam sample preparation technique with polarized synchrotron‐based FTIR (Fourier transform infrared) spectroscopy, laser‐Raman spectroscopy, electron microprobe analysis (EMPA), and transmission electron microscope (TEM) analysis to identify and quantify structurally bound OH, F, Cl, and CO3 groups in fluorapatite from the Northwest Africa 2975 (NWA 2975) shergottite. In this study, the first FTIR spectra of the OH‐stretching region from a Martian apatite are presented that show characteristic OH‐bands of a F‐rich, hydroxyl‐bearing apatite. Depending on the method of apatite‐formula calculation and whether charge balance is assumed or not, the FTIR‐based quantification of the incorporated OH, expressed as wt% H2O, is in variably good agreement with the H2O concentration calculated from electron microprobe data. EMP analyses yielded between 0.35 and 0.54 wt% H2O, and IR data yielded an average H2O content of 0.31 ± 0.03 wt%, consistent with the lower range determined from EMP analyses. The TEM observations implied that the volatiles budget of fluorapatite is magmatic. The water content and the relative volatile ratios calculated for the NWA 2975 magma are similar to those established for other enriched or intermediate shergottites. It is difficult to define the source of enrichment: either Martian wet mantle or crustal assimilation. Comparing the environment of parental magma generation for NWA 2975 with the terrestrial mantle in terms of water content, it displays a composition intermediate between enriched and depleted MORB.
Noble gases in 18 Martian meteorites and angrite Northwest Africa 7812—Exposure ages, trapped gases, and a re‐evaluation of the evidence for solar cosmic ray‐produced neon in shergottites and other achondrites
Authors: Wieler R. , Huber L. , Busemann H. , Seiler S. , Leya I. , Maden C. , Masarik J. , Meier M. M. M. , Nagao K. , Trappitsch R. , Irving A. J.
Published: January 2016

We present noble gas data for 16 shergottites, 2 nakhlites (NWA 5790, NWA 10153), and 1 angrite (NWA 7812). Noble gas exposure ages of the shergottites fall in the 1–6 Ma range found in previous studies. Three depleted olivine‐phyric shergottites (Tissint, NWA 6162, NWA 7635) have exposure ages of ~1 Ma, in agreement with published data for similar specimens. The exposure age of NWA 10153 (~12.2 Ma) falls in the range of 9–13 Ma reported for other nakhlites. Our preferred age of ~7.3 Ma for NWA 5790 is lower than this range, and it is possible that NWA 5790 represents a distinct ejection event. A Tissint glass sample contains Xe from the Martian atmosphere. Several samples show a remarkably low (21Ne/22Ne)cos ratio < 0.80, as previously observed in a many shergottites and in various other rare achondrites. This was explained by solar cosmic ray‐produced Ne (SCR Ne) in addition to the commonly found galactic cosmic ray‐produced Ne, implying very low preatmospheric shielding and ablation loss. We revisit this by comparing measured (21Ne/22Ne)cos ratios with predictions by cosmogenic nuclide production models. Indeed, several shergottites, acalpulcoites/lodranites, angrites (including NWA 7812), and the Brachina‐like meteorite LEW 88763 likely contain SCR Ne, as previously postulated for many of them. The SCR contribution may influence the calculation of exposure ages. One likely reason that SCR nuclides are predominantly detected in meteorites from rare classes is because they usually are analyzed for cosmogenic nuclides even if they had a very small (preatmospheric) mass and hence low ablation loss.
Early Cerebral Constraints on Reading Skills in School‐Age Children: An MRI Study
Authors: Borst G. , Cachia A. , Tissier C. , Ahr E. , Simon G. , Houdé O.
Published: January 2016

Reading relies on a left‐lateralized network of brain areas that include the pre‐lexical processing regions of the ventral stream. Specifically, a region in the left lateral occipitotemporal sulcus (OTS) is consistently more activated for visual presentations of words than for other categories of stimuli. This region undergoes dramatic changes at the functional and structural levels when children learn to read, but little is known about the effects of early cerebral constraints on reading skills. Using anatomical magnetic resonance imaging, we investigated whether the sulcal pattern of the lateral OTS—a stable brain feature—was associated with oral reading skills. The sulcal pattern of the left but not the right lateral OTS was associated with the number of words correctly read in 3 min. This study is the first to evidence that reading is affected by early cerebral constraints, such as the sulcal morphology of the left lateral OTS.
Physiological Levels of Pentraxin 3 and Albumin Attenuate Vascular Endothelial Cell Damage Induced by Histone H3 In Vitro
Authors: Iba Toshiaki , Hamakubo Takao , Nagaoka Isao , Sato Koichi , Thachil Jecko
Published: January 2016

Objective

Extracellular histones have strong toxicity against the vascular ECs, however, the damage is significantly attenuated in the serum. Although several plasma proteins such as albumin, APC, and PTX3 are known to inhibit the actions of histones, it is still unclear as to which plasma proteins play predominant role. The purpose of this study was to search for the major inhibitors in the serum.

Methods

ECs were cultured in serum‐free medium and histone H3 was added. The effects of albumin, low‐, medium‐, and high‐concentration of APC and PTX3 were examined by time‐lapse morphological observation and by immunofluorescent staining. The treatment effects were also assessed by the cell viability assay.

Results

Both 5% and 2.5% albumin, medium‐ and high‐concentration APC, and medium‐ and high‐concentration PTX3 exerted significant protective effect. In case of damage induced by high‐concentration histone H3, all of albumin, APC and PTX3 exerted effects in a concentration‐dependent manner. Above results were also confirmed by the cell viability assay.

Conclusion

Because albumin and PTX3 inhibited histone‐induced damage at physiological levels found in serum, these proteins are expected to be major histone inhibitors in vivo.
Epidemiology, risk factor, species distribution, antifungal resistance and outcome of Candidemia at a single French hospital: a 7‐year study
Authors: Tadec Laurent , Talarmin Jean‐Philippe , Gastinne Thomas , Bretonnière Cédric , Miegeville Michel , Le Pape Patrice , Morio Florent
Published: January 2016

Candidemia remains a major cause of disease worldwide and is associated with a high mortality rate. We conducted a retrospective study of candidemia at Nantes Hospital, France, between 2004 and 2010. A total of 191 episodes (n = 188 patients) were reviewed. Incidence, demographics, risk factors, antifungal management, species identification, in vitro susceptibility and 12 weeks survival were analysed. Global incidence of candidemia was 0.37‰ admissions. Higher incidences were observed in haematology (6.65‰) and intensive care units (2‰). Central venous catheter and antibiotic exposure were the most frequent risk factors (77% and 76% respectively). Candida albicans was the predominant species (51.8%) followed by C. parapsilosis (14.5%), C. glabrata (9.8%), C. tropicalis (9.8%) and C. krusei (4.1%). However, species distribution differed significantly between medical units with frequency of C. tropicalis being higher in haematology compared to other medical units. Fluconazole and caspofungin were the main antifungals given as first‐line therapy. Although not significant, 12 weeks mortality rate was 30.9%, being higher for C. tropicalis (44.4%) than for C. parapsilosis (16%). Acquired azole or echinocandin resistance was noted in some isolates, underlining the need for systematic antifungal susceptibility testing in patients with candidemia. These epidemiological findings will be of interest for antifungal stewardship at our hospital.
Effect of birth weight on adulthood renal function: A bias‐adjusted meta‐analytic approach
Authors: Das Sumon Kumar , Mannan Munim , Faruque Abu Syed Golam , Ahmed Tahmeed , McIntyre Harold David , Al Mamun Abdullah
Published: January 2016

While the association between low birth weight (LBW; <2500 g) and development of adult chronic renal disease (CKD) is inconsistently reported, less information is available regarding association of high birth weight (HBW; ≥4000 g) with CKD. We undertook a systematic review and meta‐analysis on studies published before 30 September 2015 and report associations between birth weight and renal function. Blood (glomerular filtration rate (GFR)) and urine (microalbuminuria/albumin excreation rate (AER)/urinary albumin creatinine ratio (ACR)) parameters were used to define CKD. Three different effect size estimates were used (odds ratio, regression coefficient and mean difference). The odds of developing CKD in the life course among those born LBW was 1.77 (95% CI: 1.42, 2.20) times and 1.68 (1.27, 2.33) times, assessed by blood and urine parameters respectively. Higher risk was also observed among Asian and Australian populations (blood: OR 2.68; urine: OR 2.28), individuals aged ≤30 years (blood: OR 2.30; urine: OR 1.26), and ≥50 years (blood: OR 3.66; urine: OR 3.10), people with diabetes (blood: OR 2.51), and aborigines (urine: OR 2.32). There was no significant association between HBW and CKD. For every 1 kg increase in BW, the estimated GFR increased by 2.09 mL/min per 1.73 m2 (1.33–2.85), and it was negatively associated with LogACR (ß −0.07, 95% CI: −0.14, 0.00). LBW inborn had lower mean GFR −4.62 (−7.10, −2.14) compared with normal BW. Findings of this study suggest that LBW increased the risk of developing CKD, and HBW did not show any significant impact.
Towards a new understanding of migration timing: slower spring than autumn migration in geese reflects different decision rules for stopover use and departure
Authors: Kölzsch Andrea , Müskens Gerhard J. D. M. , Kruckenberg Helmut , Glazov Peter , Weinzierl Rolf , Nolet Bart A. , Wikelski Martin
Published: January 2016

According to migration theory and several empirical studies, long‐distance migrants are more time‐limited during spring migration and should therefore migrate faster in spring than in autumn. Competition for the best breeding sites is supposed to be the main driver, but timing of migration is often also influenced by environmental factors such as food availability and wind conditions.

Using GPS tags, we tracked 65 greater white‐fronted geese Anser albifrons migrating between western Europe and the Russian Arctic during spring and autumn migration over six different years. Contrary to theory, our birds took considerably longer for spring migration (83 days) than autumn migration (42 days). This difference in duration was mainly determined by time spent at stopovers.

Timing and space use during migration suggest that the birds were using different strategies in the two seasons: In spring they spread out in a wide front to acquire extra energy stores in many successive stopover sites (to fuel capital breeding), which is in accordance with previous results that white‐fronted geese follow the green wave of spring growth. In autumn they filled up their stores close to the breeding grounds and waited for supportive wind conditions to quickly move to their wintering grounds. Selection for supportive winds was stronger in autumn, when general wind conditions were less favourable than in spring, leading to similar flight speeds in the two seasons. In combination with less stopover time in autumn this led to faster autumn than spring migration.

White‐fronted geese thus differ from theory that spring migration is faster than autumn migration. We expect our findings of different decision rules between the two migratory seasons to apply more generally, in particular in large birds in which capital breeding is common, and in birds that meet other environmental conditions along their migration route in autumn than in spring.
Metabolic engineering of proanthocyanidin production by repressing the isoflavone pathways and redirecting anthocyanidin precursor flux in legume
Authors: Li Penghui , Dong Qiang , Ge Shujun , He Xianzhi , Verdier Jerome , Li Dongqin , Zhao Jian
Published: January 2016

MtPAR is a proanthocyanidin (PA) biosynthesis regulator; the mechanism underlying its promotion of PA biosynthesis is not fully understood. Here, we showed that MtPAR promotes PA production by a direct repression of biosynthesis of isoflavones, the major flavonoids in legume, and by redirecting immediate precursors, such as anthocyanidins, flux into PA pathway. Ectopic expression of MtPAR repressed isoflavonoid production by directly binding and suppressing isoflavone biosynthetic genes such as isoflavone synthase (IFS). Meanwhile, MtPAR up‐regulated PA‐specific genes and decreased the anthocyanin levels without altering the expression of anthocyanin biosynthetic genes. MtPAR may shift the anthocyanidin precursor flux from anthocyanin pathway to PA biosynthesis. MtPAR complemented PA‐deficient phenotype of Arabidopsis tt2 mutant seeds, demonstrating their similar action on PA production. We showed the direct interactions between MtPAR, MtTT8 and MtWD40‐1 proteins from Medicago truncatula and Glycine max, to form a ternary complex to trans‐activate PA‐specific ANR gene. Finally, MtPAR expression in alfalfa (Medicago sativa) hairy roots and whole plants only promoted the production of small amount of PAs, which was significantly enhanced by co‐expression of MtPAR and MtLAP1. Transcriptomic and metabolite profiling showed an additive effect between MtPAR and MtLAP1 on the production of PAs, supporting that efficient PA production requires more anthocyanidin precursors. This study provides new insights into the role and mechanism of MtPAR in partitioning precursors from isoflavone and anthocyanin pathways into PA pathways for a specific promotion of PA production. Based on this, a strategy by combining MtPAR and MtLAP1 co‐expression to effectively improve metabolic engineering performance of PA production in legume forage was developed.
Down‐regulation of OsSPX1 caused semi‐male sterility, resulting in reduction of grain yield in rice
Authors: Zhang Kang , Song Qian , Wei Qiang , Wang Chunchao , Zhang Liwei , Xu Wenying , Su Zhen
Published: January 2016

OsSPX1, a rice SPX domain gene, involved in the phosphate (Pi)‐sensing mechanism plays an essential role in the Pi‐signalling network through interaction with OsPHR2. In this study, we focused on the potential function of OsSPX1 during rice reproductive phase. Based on investigation of OsSPX1 antisense and sense transgenic rice lines in the paddy fields, we discovered that the down‐regulation of OsSPX1 caused reduction of seed‐setting rate and filled grain number. Through examination of anthers and pollens of the transgenic and wild‐type plants by microscopy, we found that the antisense of OsSPX1 gene led to semi‐male sterility, with lacking of mature pollen grains and phenotypes with a disordered surface of anthers and pollens. We further conducted rice whole‐genome GeneChip analysis to elucidate the possible molecular mechanism underlying why the down‐regulation of OsSPX1 caused deficiencies in anthers and pollens and lower seed‐setting rate in rice. The down‐regulation of OsSPX1 significantly affected expression of genes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and sugar transport, anther development, cell cycle, etc. These genes may be related to pollen fertility and male gametophyte development. Our study demonstrated that down‐regulation of OsSPX1 disrupted rice normal anther and pollen development by affecting carbohydrate metabolism and sugar transport, leading to semi‐male sterility, and ultimately resulted in low seed‐setting rate and grain yield.
AST‐to‐platelet ratio index in non‐invasive assessment of long‐term graft fibrosis following pediatric liver transplantation
Authors: D'Souza Rashmi S. , Neves Souza Lara , Isted Alexander , Fitzpatrick Emer , Vimalesvaran Sunitha , Cotoi Corina , Amin Saista , Heaton Nigel , Quaglia Alberto , Dhawan Anil
Published: January 2016

Long‐term graft fibrosis occurs in the majority of pediatric liver transplant recipients. Serial biopsies to monitor graft health are impractical and invasive. The APRI has been evaluated in pediatric liver disease, but not in the context of post‐transplantation fibrosis. We aimed to investigate the validity of APRI as a predictor of long‐term graft fibrosis in pediatric liver transplant recipients. This was a retrospective, observational study of a cohort of children who underwent liver transplantation at King's College Hospital between 1989 and 2003, with a relevant dataset available. Protocol liver biopsies were performed at 10‐yr follow‐up and fibrosis was graded using the Ishak scoring system, with S3‐6 denoting “significant fibrosis.” APRI was calculated concurrently with biopsy. A total of 39 asymptomatic patients (20 males; median age at transplant, 1.43 yr) underwent protocol liver biopsies at a median of 10.39 yr post‐transplantation. APRI was associated with significant fibrosis (p = 0.012). AUROC for APRI as a predictor of significant fibrosis was 0.74 (p = 0.013). The optimal cutoff APRI value for significant fibrosis was 0.45 (sensitivity = 0.67; specificity = 0.79; PPV = 0.67; NPV = 0.79). APRI appears to be a useful non‐invasive adjunct in the assessment of significant graft fibrosis in the long‐term follow‐up of pediatric liver transplant survivors.