bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antifibrotic effect of lysophosphatidic acid receptors LPA1 and LPA3 antagonist on experimental murine scleroderma induced by bleomycin
Authors: Ohashi Takenobu , Yamamoto Toshiyuki
Published: May 2015

The study of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA) receptor has recently focused on its involvement in the pathogenesis of systemic sclerosis (SSc). We examined the inhibitory effects of the antagonist for the LPA receptor, a selective LPA1 and LPA3 antagonist (Ki16425), on dermal and lung fibrosis in a mouse model of SSc. Ki16425 was administered intra‐dermally after 6 h on the same sites as bleomycin injection. Histopathological examination showed that skin lesions were markedly attenuated by treatment with Ki16425 at doses of 1 and 10 mg/kg, along with reduced dermal thickness. Hydroxyproline contents in the Ki16425‐treated skin showed a decrease of 35% (1 mg/kg) and 45% (10 mg/kg) compared with those in the oil‐injected skin of the controls. The number of mast cells and phospho‐Smad2/3‐positive spindle cells of the Ki16425‐treated skin was significantly decreased compared with that in the controls. Additionally, RT‐PCR analysis showed that the mRNA levels of TGF‐β1, CTGF, MIP‐1α, IFN‐γ and collagen α1(I) were significantly decreased in both the 1‐mg/kg and 10‐mg/kg groups of the Ki16425‐treated mice compared with those in the controls. Furthermore, treatment with bleomycin and Ki16425 showed reduction in lung fibrosis, and the hydroxyproline contents in the lungs of the Ki16425‐treated mice showed a decrease of 25% (1 mg/kg) and 32% (10 mg/kg) compared with those in the lungs of the controls. Taken together, Ki16425 was found to improve dermal and lung fibrosis in a mouse model of bleomycin‐induced murine scleroderma. These results suggest that Ki16425 has the potential to be an effective new treatment for scleroderma.
Quantification of oxytocin residues in dairy milk from Sindh, Pakistan
Authors: Jawaid Sana , Talpur Farah N. , Nizamani Shafique M. , Memon Nusrat Naeem , Khaskheli Abid A.
Published: May 2015

In this study, a total of 84 milk samples (60 nonbranded and 24 branded) were analysed for occurrence of oxytocin (OT) residues by ELISA. OT level was detected in the range of 39.29–456.55 pg mL−1 with mean value of 138.53 ng L−1. In branded milk samples, OT residues were minimal as compared to nonbranded milk samples. Nonbranded milk samples had higher prevalence of OT residues; 16.67% had OT level in the range of ≤500 ng L−1. The average daily intake of OT was found 0.087 μg day−1 per person. It was concluded that the OT concentration was relatively higher in samples obtained from dairy farm, dairy shop and milk man than that in ultra‐high temperature (UHT) and powder milk samples. In addition, there are no reports subjected to standardising a permissible OT level in dairy milk category, although OT is considered detrimental to both human and animal life.
Comparison of phenolic profiles and antioxidant potentials of the leaves and seeds of Thai holy and sweet basils
Authors: Shen Yixiao , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon , Lotrakul Pongtharin , Xu Zhimin
Published: May 2015

Eight phenolics rosmarinic, caftaric, caffeic, chicoric, p‐hydroxybenzoic, p‐coumaric, protocatechuic acid and rutin were identified in Thai holy/sweet basil leaves or seeds. The overall phenolics in THBL were two, three and twenty times higher than that in TSBL, THBS and TSBS, respectively. Oppositely, the TP content of TSBL was one and a half times higher than THBL which was followed by THBS and TSBS. The order of scavenging DPPH free radical activity from high to low was THBL, TSBL, THBS and TSBS and consistent with their overall phenolics. In a cholesterol oxidation model, THBL exhibited higher antioxidant activity with lower level of 7‐ketocholesterol (2.67 ± 0.31 μg/mL) than TSBL (4.49 ± 0.32), THBS (7.78 ± 1.25) or TSBS (13.10 ± 0.61). The results demonstrated that Thai holy basil has higher antioxidant capability than sweet basil and could be used as an effective bioactive ingredient to provide health‐promoting function in food.
Assessment of chemically characterised Rosmarinus officinalis L. essential oil and its major compounds as plant‐based preservative in food system based on their efficacy against food‐borne moulds and aflatoxin secretion and as antioxidant
Authors: Prakash Bhanu , Kedia Akash , Mishra Prashant K. , Dwivedy Abhishek K. , Dubey Nawal K.
Published: May 2015

The study explores antifungal, anti‐aflatoxigenic and antioxidant efficacy of Rosmarinus officinalis essential oil (ROEO) and its major compounds. In addition, the mode of action of ROEO and its practical efficacy as preservative have been assessed. GC‐MS analysis of ROEO identified 16 compounds; α‐pinene, 1,8‐cineole and camphor being the major compounds. The minimum concentration for inhibition of growth and aflatoxin B1 secretion against A. flavus (LHP‐6) was found to be 1.5, >5.0, 4.0 and 3.0 μL mL−1 and 1.25, >5.0, 3.5 and 3.0 μL mL−1 for ROEO, α‐pinene, 1,8‐cineole and camphor, respectively. The IC50 value through DPPH analysis and percentage inhibition of linoleic acid peroxidation of ROEO were 0.042 μL mL−1 and 71.05%, respectively. The targeted site of antifungal action of ROEO was confirmed as plasma membrane through ergosterol measurement and TEM analysis. Moreover, ROEO significantly protected Piper nigrum fruits against mould infestation upto 6 months in in vivo trial.
Number and size of lupulin glands, glandular trichomes of hop (Humulus lupulus L.), play a key role in contents of bitter acids and polyphenols in hop cone
Authors: Patzak Josef , Krofta Karel , Henychová Alena , Nesvadba Vladimír
Published: May 2015

Hop (Humulus lupulus L.) inflorescence, commonly known as ‘hop cone’, is valuable for contents of bitter acids, essential oils and polyphenols, used in brewing industry and biomedical application. These compounds are predominantly formed in glandular trichomes, known as ‘lupulin glands’. In this study, we investigated chemical and morphological characteristics of lupulin glands by microscopy and HPLC analyses. Even though no significant correlations were found between lupulin glands and hop cones for contents of alpha and beta bitter acids, polyphenols, all ratios between individual metabolites (alpha/beta acids, X/alpha acids, X/DMX) were highly and significantly correlated. The average number of lupulin glands on bract/bracteole ranged from 115 to 713 with 28.5% of variability. Linear regression analyses confirmed that total volume of lupulin glands and total lupulin glands area on bract/bracteole surface highly correlated with contents of bitter acids and polyphenols in hop cone. Therefore, lupulin glands are unique and exclusive organs responsible for contents of bitter acids and polyphenols in hop cone.
Formulation of monodisperse oil‐in‐water emulsions loaded with ergocalciferol and cholecalciferol by microchannel emulsification: insights of production characteristics and stability
Authors: Khalid Nauman , Kobayashi Isao , Wang Zheng , Neves Marcos A. , Uemura Kunihiko , Nakajima Mitsutoshi , Nabetani Hiroshi
Published: May 2015

Nutritional deficiencies of ergocalciferol (VD2) and cholecalciferol (VD3) cause skeletal deformations. The primary aim of this study was to encapsulate VD2 and VD3 in food‐grade oil‐in‐water (O/W) emulsions by using microchannel emulsification (MCE). Silicon asymmetric straight‐through microchannel (MC) array consisting of 10 313 channels, each having an 11 × 104 μm microslot connected to a 10 μm circular microholes. 1% (w/w) sodium cholate or Tween 20 in water was used as the continuous phase, while 0.5% (w/w) of each VD2 and VD3 in different oils served as the dispersed phase. Monodisperse O/W emulsions with Sauter mean diameters of 28 to 32 μm and relative span factor widths below 0.3 were formulated via an asymmetric straight‐through MC array under appropriate operating conditions. The monodisperse O/W emulsions stabilised with Tween 20 remained stable for >30 days with encapsulation efficiencies (EEs) of VD2 and VD3 of above 70% at 4 and 25 °C. In contrast, those stabilised with sodium cholate had stability of >30 days with their EEs of over 70% only at 25 °C.
Biogenic amines in wine: a review
Authors: Guo Yan‐Yun , Yang Yan‐Ping , Peng Qian , Han Ye
Published: May 2015

Biogenic amines are formed from precursor amino acids, mainly by the microbial decarboxylation. The presence of these compounds plays a vital role in oenology because high amounts of them can lead to health problems. Thus, the origin, detection, and quantity of biogenic amines in wine are extremely important for winemaking. This study, focusing on the articles of latest 5 years, not only reviews the analytical methods used for the determination of biogenic amines but also describes the source of biogenic amines from the perspective of microbiological and oenological factors and summarises the strategies for the degradation of amines. The information presented in this review is important to alert about the inadequate quality of wine products, and efforts from the entire productive chain and the government are required to attain consumer safety.
Effect of the shape of rice starch granules on flour characteristics and gluten‐free bread quality
Authors: Kang Tae‐Young , Sohn Kee Hyuk , Yoon Mi‐Ra , Lee Jeom‐Sig , Ko Sanghoon
Published: May 2015

The effect of three different rice varieties with different starch shapes (Seolgaeng (SG), round starch structure; Samkwang (SK), polygonal starch structure and Boramchan (BRC), polygonal starch structure) on rice flour characteristics and gluten‐free bread baking quality was investigated. Rice flours were produced by dry milling and passed through a 200 mesh sieve. Electron microscopy revealed that the structure of SG grains, with round starch granules, possessed larger void spaces than SK and BRC, composed of polygonal starch granules. For this reason, SG grain had low grain hardness and consequently, it was milled to a fine flour with low damaged starch content. The thermo‐mechanical properties were determined by Mixolab, which revealed that SG was gelatinised rapidly and maintained high viscosity after gelatinisation. These characteristics gave SG flour the ability to build up bread structure without gluten. Specific volume and crumb hardness of gluten‐free rice breads made of SG, SK and BRC flours were 3.37, 3.11 and 2.12 mL g−1 and 2.61, 2.76 and 6.46 N, respectively. The SG flour with round starch structure is appropriate for making gluten‐free rice breads.
Autologous cellular vaccine overcomes cancer immunoediting in a mouse model of myeloma
Authors: Mazzocco Marta , Martini Matteo , Rosato Antonio , Stefani Elisabetta , Matucci Andrea , Dalla Santa Silvia , De Sanctis Francesco , Ugel Stefano , Sandri Sara , Ferrarini Giovanna , Cestari Tiziana , Ferrari Sergio , Zanovello Paola , Bronte Vincenzo , Sartoris Silvia
Published: May 2015

In the Sp6 mouse plasmacytoma model, a whole‐cell vaccination with Sp6 cells expressing de novo B7‐1 (Sp6/B7) induced anatomically localized and cytotoxic T cell (CTL) ‐mediated protection against wild‐type (WT) Sp6. Both WT Sp6 and Sp6/B7 showed down‐regulated expression of MHC H‐2 Ld. Increase of H‐2 Ld expression by cDNA transfection (Sp6/B7/Ld) raised tumour immune protection and shifted most CTL responses towards H‐2 Ld‐restricted antigenic epitopes. The tumour‐protective responses were not specific for the H‐2 Ld‐restricted immunodominant AH1 epitope of the gp70 common mouse tumour antigen, although WT Sp6 and transfectants were able to present it to specific T cells in vitro. Gp70 transcripts, absent in secondary lymphoid organs of naive mice, were detected in immunized mice as well as in splenocytes from naive mice incubated in vitro with supernatants of CTL‐lysed Sp6 cell cultures, containing damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs). It has been shown that Toll‐like receptor triggering induces gp70 expression. Damage‐associated molecular patterns are released by CTL‐mediated killing of Sp6/B7‐Sp6/B7/Ld cells migrated to draining lymph nodes during immunization and may activate gp70 expression and presentation in most resident antigen‐presenting cells. The same could also apply for Mus musculus endogenous ecotropic murine leukaemia virus 1 particles present in Sp6‐cytosol, discharged by dying cells and superinfecting antigen‐presenting cells. The outcome of such a massive gp70 cross‐presentation would probably be tolerogenic for the high‐affinity AH1‐gp70‐specific CTL clones. In this scenario, autologous whole‐tumour‐cell vaccines rescue tumour‐specific immunoprotection by amplification of subdominant tumour antigen responses when those against the immune dominant antigens are lost.
BaCl2:Er3+—A High Efficient Upconversion Phosphor for Broadband Near‐Infrared Photoresponsive Devices
Authors: Chen Zhi , Jia Hong , Zhang Xiaowen , Liu Jianmin , Zeng Shengfeng , Li Yang , Ma Zhijun , Dong Guoping , Qiu Jianrong
Published: May 2015

Utilization of photons with subband‐gap energy, mostly near‐infrared (NIR) photons, is highly desirable for photovoltaic cells; which can be achieved by adding an upconversion layer at the rear face of photovoltaic cells. Here, we study the upconversion luminescence properties of BaCl2:Er3+ phosphors and hexagonal NaYF4:Er3+ phosphors upon excitation of incoherent NIR sunlight with wavelength λ > 800 nm. Higher efficacious upconversion emissions of BaCl2:Er3+ phosphors have been observed in comparison with the well‐known hexagonal NaYF4:Er3+ phosphors. We demonstrate that the photocurrent response from the thin‐film‐hydrogenated amorphous silicon solar cell attached with the BaCl2:Er3+ phosphor is notably enhanced under irradiation of incoherent NIR sunlight with wavelength λ > 800 nm. This judicious design may be envisioned to shorten the distance for the remarkable improvement of the power conversion efficiency of the next‐generation photovoltaic cells and suggests a promising application for other NIR photoresponsive devices.
Creating a Protective Shell for Reactive MoSi2 Particles in High‐Temperature Ceramics
Authors: Carabat Alexandra L. , van der Zwaag Sybrand , Sloof Willem G.
Published: May 2015

Alumina encapsulated molybdenum silicide (MoSi2) intermetallic particles were synthesized using a simple precipitation method followed by calcining at temperatures of 800°C–1000°C, to prevent the premature oxidation of MoSi2 at high temperatures. The shell composition and the influence of the calcining temperature on microcapsule integrity were investigated by means of X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy, and thermogravimetric analysis. The results demonstrate that the composition and the mechanical stability of the alumina shell can be tuned by the annealing temperature. After calcining at 800°C and 850°C the alumina shell remains intact. Calcining at higher temperature promotes the formation of mullite, which leads to cracking of the shell. However, when annealed at 1000°C for 24 h these cracks were filled with mullite and preserved the molybdenum silicide particles. Furthermore, the mechanical stability of the shell was improved by applying an intermediate calcining treatment at 450°C prior to the annealing process at 1000°C.
Influence of Calcium Sulfoaluminate (CSA) Cement Content on Expansion and Hydration Behavior of Various Ordinary Portland Cement‐CSA Blends
Authors: Chaunsali Piyush , Mondal Paramita
Published: May 2015

Calcium sulfoaluminate (CSA) cements have lower carbon footprint than that of portland cement, which makes them a suitable alternative as a sustainable cementitious binder. Early‐age expansion of CSA cements can be exploited to induce compressive stress in restrained concrete which can later counteract tensile stress developed during drying shrinkage, thus enhancing the resistance against shrinkage cracking. However, a proper understanding of the expansion behavior is critical to eliminate any risk related to expansion‐induced cracking. This study examines the expansion and hydration characteristics of various ordinary portland cement (OPC)‐CSA blends. Early‐age expansion of paste samples was monitored. The increase in CSA cement content increased the extent of expansion. Samples having the highest CSA content (30% by mass) exhibited excessive expansion which led to their cracking. Quantitative X‐ray diffraction, pore solution extraction, porosity, tensile strength, and dynamic modulus tests were performed to monitor the physico‐chemical changes in OPC‐CSA blends. It was shown that the ettringite supersaturation in the investigated systems gave rise to the crystallization stress, responsible for the expansion. Thermodynamic models enabled a reasonable prediction of tensile failure, particularly in the blends with the higher CSA content.
Common loon parents defend chicks according to both value and vulnerability
Authors: Jukkala Gabriella , Piper Walter
Published: May 2015

In many territorial breeders, conspecifics that intrude during the chick‐rearing period pose a threat to survival of young. Defense of young from intruders is costly to parents, so it is likely that intense selective pressure has shaped chick defense so as to maximize parental fitness. We simulated territorial intrusion by exposing adult common loons Gavia immer and their chicks to a decoy and used mixed models to investigate responses. We tested two hypotheses: 1) the value hypothesis, which holds that parents should defend large broods of offspring more strongly because of the greater potential fitness benefits they offer, and 2) the vulnerability hypothesis, which predicts vigorous defense of young offspring, whose small size and limited mobility render them vulnerable to sudden attacks from intruders that approach under water. Under natural conditions, parents spent over 80% of their time within 20 m of chicks younger than two weeks (‘young chicks’) but 66% or less of their time close to chicks four weeks or older (‘old chicks’). Parents of young chicks associated less with the decoy but yodelled and penguin danced more during decoy trials than did parents of old chicks, supporting the conclusion that the parents protected young chicks not by engaging intruders directly but by remaining close to chicks and using vocalization and display to keep intruders at a distance. While these findings lent clear support to the vulnerability hypothesis, the value hypothesis too was supported, as males with two‐chick broods were almost three times more likely to yodel than males with singleton chicks. Age of parents was not associated with any aspect of chick defense, but the paucity of known‐aged parents in the oldest age classes makes future investigation of age effects warranted.
The role of human disturbance in island biogeography of arthropods and plants: an information theoretic approach
Authors: Nakamura Akihiro , Burwell Chris J. , Lambkin Christine L. , Katabuchi Masatoshi , McDougall Andrew , Raven Robert J. , Neldner V. John
Published: May 2015

Aim

Recent progress in island biogeography indicates that classical island biogeography alone cannot encapsulate the complex and dynamic nature of island biogeographical processes. Factors such as habitat complexity and connectivity, and in the face of the Anthropocene, human disturbance and invasive species, may influence insular communities. The relative importance of these factors, however, may differ among groups of biota. Here we employed an information theoretic approach to investigate factors likely to explain patterns in species richness and assemblage composition of five different groups of arthropods (ants, beetles, flies, spiders and cockroaches) and native and exotic plants within an insular community.

Location

Capricornia Cays located at the southern end of Great Barrier Reef, eastern Australia.

Methods

Arthropods were sampled from 14 cays using pitfall and Malaise traps and hand collecting. Plants were comprehensively surveyed on each island. We used univariate and multivariate generalized linear models with a model averaging technique, to calculate summed Akaike weights which quantified the relative importance of predictor variables in explaining variation in species richness and assemblage composition.

Results

We found that infestation of the invasive ant Pheidole megacephala was negatively correlated with the species richness of ants, beetles and flies. Unlike species richness, only the assemblage composition of ants was related to P. megacephala infestation. Assemblage composition of other arthropod groups and plants was related to various factors, including island size (native plants), native plant species richness (beetles, flies and spiders) and presence of human disturbances (exotic plants and cockroaches).

Main conclusions

The information theoretic approach proved useful in determining the relative likelihood of factors influencing both univariate and multivariate data of insular fauna and flora. The results demonstrated that human disturbance and proliferation of invasive species can override other biogeographical processes. The relative importance of these factors, however, varied depending on the taxonomic groups studied.
Extrapolating cetacean densities beyond surveyed regions: habitat‐based predictions in the circumtropical belt
Authors: Mannocci Laura , Monestiez Pascal , Spitz Jérôme , Ridoux Vincent
Published: May 2015

Aim

Our knowledge of cetacean distributions is impeded by large data‐gaps worldwide, particularly at tropical latitudes. This study aims to (1) find generic relationships between cetaceans and their habitats in a range of tropical waters, and (2) extrapolate cetacean densities in a circumtropical belt extending far beyond surveyed regions.

Location

Pelagic, circumtropical.

Methods

Aerial surveys were conducted over three regions in the tropical Atlantic (132,000 km2), Indian (1.4 million km2) and Pacific (1.4 million km2) oceans. Three cetacean guilds were studied (Delphininae, Globicephalinae and sperm and beaked whales). For each guild, a generalized additive model was fitted using sightings recorded in all three regions and 14 candidate environmental predictors. Cetacean densities were tentatively extrapolated over a circumtropical belt, excluding waters where environmental characteristics departed from those encountered in the surveyed regions.

Results

Each cetacean guild exhibited a relationship with the primary production and depth of the minimum dissolved oxygen concentration. Delphininae also showed a relationship with the dominant phytoplankton group. The prediction envelopes were primarily constrained by water temperature. Circumtropical extrapolations of Delphininae and Globicephalinae were contrasted between ocean basins, with high densities predicted in the equatorial waters of the three ocean basins. The predicted densities of sperm and beaked whales were lower and more uniform across the circumtropical belt than for the other two guilds.

Main conclusions

Our modelling approach represents a good analytical solution to predicting cetacean population densities in poorly documented tropical waters. Future data collection should concentrate on areas where environmental characteristics were not encountered in our survey regions and where the predicted densities were the most uncertain. By highlighting cetacean hotspots far beyond waters under national jurisdiction, this study can provide guidance for the delimitation of Ecologically and Biologically Significant Marine Areas.
Optimal Drug Policy in Low‐Income Neighborhoods
Authors: CHANG SHENG‐WEN , COULSON N. EDWARD , WANG PING
Published: May 2015

The control of drug activity currently favors supply‐side policies: drug suppliers in the United States face a higher arrest rate and longer sentences than demanders. We construct a simple model of drug activity with search and entry frictions in labor and drug markets. Our calibration analysis suggests a strong “dealer replacement effect.”  As a result, given a variety of community objectives, it is beneficial to lower supplier arrests and raise the demand arrest rate from current values. A 10% shift from supply‐side to demand‐side arrests can reduce the population of potential drug dealers by 22–25,000 and raise aggregate local income by $380–$400 million, at 2002 prices.
Long‐Term Contracts, Irreversibility, and Uncertainty
Authors: ARVE MALIN
Published: May 2015

Long‐term contracting implies contracting based on expected future demand. In this paper, I develop a multiperiod procurement model where, once the actual level of demand is realized, the irreversible initial provision level may be supplemented by additional provisions. This paper shows that, with the possibility of additional upward adjustments, the first‐period provision level will be lower than when no additional adjustments are possible. This reduction in first‐period provision level is higher under complete contracting than under incomplete contracting, and because of the reduction in information rents it yields a higher expected utility to the principal but lower total welfare.
Legalization of Bribe Giving when Bribe Type Is Endogenous
Authors: OAK MANDAR
Published: May 2015

A recent paper, Basu argues that for a class of bribes, called harassment bribes, legalization of bribe giving, but not bribe taking, will reduce bribery. We examine the applicability of Basu's insight in an environment in which the type of the bribe—harassment or nonharassment—is endogenously determined, and it is not feasible to legalize the giving of nonharassment bribes. We find that in such an environment Basu's proposal, in and of itself, yields mixed results: in one case it reduces even the prevalence of nonharassment bribes, and improves social welfare. However, in another case it is shown to be counter‐productive, i.e., it reduces social welfare while failing to eliminate bribery. Our analysis finds parameter values that determine which of the two cases will prevail, and points to additional policies aimed at strengthening the legal institutions which, in conjunction with Basu's proposal, will help reduce bribery.
Program Quality Competition in Broadcasting Markets
Authors: LI CHANGYING , ZHANG JIANHU
Published: May 2015

This paper develops a duopoly model where broadcasters first choose their program quality and then their pricing strategy. Two alternative financing schemes are considered: pay‐TV and free‐to‐air. We find that, from a welfare perspective, a pay‐TV regime always generates inadequate quality and advertising, whereas free‐to‐air might produce excessive quality and advertising. In the case of asymmetric competition, a pay‐TV broadcaster always has a stronger incentive to conduct research and development than a free‐to‐air broadcaster does. Both platforms could either over‐ or underinvest. The pay‐TV broadcaster always shows too few advertisements, but the free‐to‐air media might act in the opposite manner.
Quantifying Optimal Growth Policy
Authors: GROSSMANN VOLKER , STEGER THOMAS M. , TRIMBORN TIMO
Published: May 2015

We determine the optimal growth policy within a comprehensive endogenous growth model. The model accounts for important elements of the tax transfer system and for transitional dynamics. It captures the three main growth engines based on standard ingredients in order to understand the quantitative policy and welfare implications of the existing theory. Our calibrated model indicates that the current policy leads to severe underinvestment in both R&D and physical capital, implying that both R&D and capital investment subsidies should be increased substantially. We argue that previous research has overlooked a strong evidence for the welfare significance of the quest for the optimal growth policy by failing to calibrate the distortionary tax system.
Internal Transcribed Spacer Sequence Analysis of Puccinia helianthi Schw. and Its Application in Detection of Sunflower Rust
Authors: Guo Dandan , Jing Jiali , Hu Wenjie , Navi Shrishail S. , Jing Lan
Published: May 2015

Two basidiomycete‐specific primers ITS1‐F and ITS4‐B were used in identification of the genus Puccinia. The primers showed good specificity for the genus with an 816‐bp product that was amplified exclusively. Twenty sequences of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) regions of Puccinia helianthi isolates from China remain unchanged. The whole ITS length (including ITS1 sequence 194 bp, 5.8S rRNA gene 156 bp, ITS2 sequence 206 bp) was 556 bp. By comparing the aligned ITS sequences of several Puccinia isolates from China, Spain and the United States, ITS homogeneity among these sunflower rust isolates was >99%. Genetic homology and phylogeny of P. helianthi with other Puccinia spp. was investigated. Nineteen sequences of rDNA ITS1 and ITS2 were determined and used as phylogenetic markers. Phylogenetic analysis of ITS regions showed that Puccinia spp. of sunflower was clustered in one clade with P. komarovii and P. violae, divergent from Puccinia spp. of Chrysanthemum, P. tenaceti of tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) and Puccina spp. of big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentate) indicating sunflower rust had distant phylogenetic relationships with other Compositae rusts. With the specified primers SR‐1 and SR‐2, either from purified urediniospores or symptomless (but infected) sunflower leaves could be examined specifically. Therefore, results of this study help in detection and polygenetic study of rust fungi occurring on sunflower.
Behaviour of Apricot Cultivars Against Hop Stunt Viroid
Authors: Rubio Manuel , Gómez Eva M. , Martínez‐Gómez Pedro , Dicenta Federico
Published: May 2015

The apricot species is susceptible to infection by different viruses and viroids including the Hop stunt viroid (HSVd), widely distributed around the world and described as the causal agent associated with fruit degeneration disease in apricot. However, to date, there are no ‘ad hoc’ studies about the resistance or susceptibility of apricot cultivars to this viroid. In this study, we tested the resistance/susceptibility to HSVd of 26 Mediterranean and North American apricot cultivars in controlled greenhouse conditions. All apricot cultivars assayed were infected by HSVd, showing a different range of susceptibility. As no sources of resistance among the apricot cultivars evaluated have been detected yet, it is necessary to continue the search for such sources to be included in apricot breeding programmes. In addition, the high level of susceptibility found highlights the importance of identifying this viroid in routine tests performed by nurseries and plant protection services.
Melatonin induces nitric oxide and the potential mechanisms relate to innate immunity against bacterial pathogen infection in Arabidopsis
Authors: Shi Haitao , Chen Yinhua , Tan Dun‐Xian , Reiter Russel J. , Chan Zhulong , He Chaozu
Published: May 2015

Melatonin (N‐acetyl‐5‐methoxytryptamine) is a naturally occurring small molecule, serving as important secondary messenger in the response of plants to various biotic and abiotic stresses. However, the interactions between melatonin and other important molecules in the plant stress response, especially in plant immunity, are largely unknown. In this study, we found that both melatonin and nitric oxide (NO) levels in Arabidopsis leaves were significantly induced by bacterial pathogen (Pst DC3000) infection. The elevated NO production was caused by melatonin as melatonin application enhanced endogenous NO level with great efficacy. Moreover, both melatonin and NO conferred improved disease resistance against Pseudomonas syringe pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000 infection in Arabidopsis. NO scavenger significantly suppressed the rise of NO which was induced by exogenous application of melatonin. As a result, the beneficial effects of melatonin on the expression of salicylic acid (SA)‐related genes and disease resistance against bacterial pathogen infection were jeopardized by use of a NO scavenger. Consistently, melatonin application significantly lost its effect on the innate immunity against P. syringe pv. tomato (Pst) DC3000 infection in NO‐deficient mutants of Arabidopsis. The results indicate that melatonin‐induced NO production is responsible for innate immunity response of Arabidopsis against Pst DC3000 infection.
Melatonin regulates carbohydrate metabolism and defenses against Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 infection in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Zhao Hongbo , Xu Lingfei , Su Tao , Jiang Yang , Hu Lingyu , Ma Fengwang
Published: May 2015

Melatonin has been reported to promote plant growth and development. Our experiments with Arabidopsis thaliana showed that exogenous applications of this molecule mediated invertase inhibitor (C/VIF)‐regulated invertase activity and enhanced sucrose metabolism. Hexoses were accumulated in response to elevated activities by cell wall invertase (CWI) and vacuolar invertase (VI). Analyses of sugar metabolism‐related genes revealed differential expression during plant development that was modulated by melatonin. In particular, C/VIF1 and C/VIF2 were strongly down‐regulated by exogenous feeding. We also found the elevated CWI activity in melatonin‐treated Arabidopsis improved the factors (cellulose, xylose, and galactose) for cell wall reinforcement and callose deposition during Pseudomonas syringae pv. tomato DC3000 infection, therefore, partially induced the pathogen resistance. However, CWI did not involve in salicylic acid (SA)‐regulated defense pathway. Taken together, this study reveals that melatonin plays an important role in invertase‐related carbohydrate metabolism, plant growth, and pathogen defense.
Comparative physiological and proteomic analyses reveal the actions of melatonin in the reduction of oxidative stress in Bermuda grass (Cynodon dactylon (L). Pers.)
Authors: Shi Haitao , Wang Xin , Tan Dun‐Xian , Reiter Russel J. , Chan Zhulong
Published: May 2015

The fact of melatonin as an important antioxidant in animals led plant researchers to speculate that melatonin also acts in the similar manner in plants. Although melatonin has significant effects on alleviating stress‐triggered reactive oxygen species (ROS), the involvement of melatonin in direct oxidative stress and the underlying physiological and molecular mechanisms remain unclear in plants. In this study, we found that exogenous melatonin significantly alleviated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐modulated plant growth, cell damage, and ROS accumulation in Bermuda grass. Additionally, 76 proteins significantly influenced by melatonin during mock or H2O2 treatment were identified by gel‐free proteomics using iTRAQ (isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation). Metabolic pathway analysis showed that several pathways were markedly enhanced by melatonin and H2O2 treatments, including polyamine metabolism, ribosome pathway, major carbohydrate metabolism, photosynthesis, redox, and amino acid metabolism. Taken together, this study provides more comprehensive insights into the physiological and molecular mechanisms of melatonin in Bermuda grass responses to direct oxidative stress. This may relate to the activation of antioxidants, modulation of metabolic pathways, and extensive proteome reprograming.
RETRACTED: Melatonin inhibits autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum stress in mice with carbon tetrachloride‐induced fibrosis
Authors: San‐Miguel Beatriz , Crespo Irene , Sánchez Diana I. , González‐Fernández Bárbara , Ortiz de Urbina Juan J. , Tuñón María J. , González‐Gallego Javier
Published: May 2015

This study aimed to investigate whether inhibition of autophagy and endoplasmic reticulum (ER stress) associates with the antifibrogenic effect of melatonin in mice treated with carbon tetrachloride (CCl4). Mice received CCl4 5 μL/g body wt i.p. twice a week for 4 wk or 6 wk. Melatonin was given at 5 or 10 mg/kg/day i.p, beginning 2 wk after the start of CCl4 administration. Treatment with CCl4 resulted in fibrosis evidenced by the staining of α‐smooth muscle actin (α‐SMA)‐positive cells. CCl4 induced an autophagic response measured as the presence of autophagic vesicles, protein 1 light chain 3 (LC3) staining, conversion of LC3‐I to autophagosome‐associated LC3‐II, changes in expression of beclin‐1, UV radiation resistance‐associated gene (UVRAG), ubiquitin‐like autophagy‐related (Atg5), Atg12, Atg16L1, sequestosome 1 (p62/SQSTM1), and lysosome‐associated membrane protein (LAMP)‐2, and increased phosphorylation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR). There was an increase in the expression of the ER stress chaperones CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein homologous protein (CHOP), immunoglobulin‐heavy‐chain‐binding protein (BiP/GRP78), and 94‐kDa glucose‐regulated protein (GRP94), and in the mRNA levels of pancreatic ER kinase (PERK), activating transcription factor 6 (ATF6), ATF4, inositol‐requiring enzyme 1 (IRE1), and spliced X‐box‐binding protein‐1 (XBP1). Phospho‐IRE1, ATF6, and phospho‐PERK protein concentration also increased significantly. Immunohistochemical staining of α‐SMA indicated an abrogation of hepatic stellate cells activation by melatonin. Furthermore, treatment with the indole resulted in significant inhibition of the autophagic flux and the unfolded protein response. Findings from this study give new insight into molecular pathways accounting for the protective effect of melatonin in fibrogenesis.
Impact of variation in structure of condensed tannins from sainfoin (Onobrychis viciifolia) on in vitro ruminal methane production and fermentation characteristics
Authors: Hatew B. , Stringano E. , Mueller‐Harvey I. , Hendriks W. H. , Carbonero C. Hayot , Smith L. M. J. , Pellikaan W. F.
Published: May 2015

Our study investigated the effects of condensed tannins (CT) on rumen in vitro methane (CH4) production and fermentation characteristics by incubating lucerne in buffered rumen fluid in combination with different CT extracts at 0 (control), 40, 80 and 120 g CT/kg of substrate DM. Condensed tannins were extracted from four sainfoin accessions: Rees ‘A’, CPI63763, Cotswold Common and CPI63767. Gas production (GP) was measured using a fully automated GP apparatus with CH4 measured at distinct time points. Condensed tannins differed substantially in terms of polymer size and varied from 13 (Rees ‘A’) to 73 (CPI63767) mean degree of polymerization, but had relatively similar characteristics in terms of CT content, procyanidin: prodelphinidin (PC: PD) and cis:trans ratios. Compared to control, addition of CT from CPI63767 and CPI63763 at 80 and 120 g CT/kg of substrate DM reduced CH4 by 43% and 65%, and by 23% and 57%, respectively, after 24‐h incubation. Similarly, CT from Rees ‘A’ and Cotswold Common reduced CH4 by 26% and 46%, and by 28% and 46% respectively. Addition of increasing level of CT linearly reduced the maximum rates of GP and CH4 production, and the estimated in vitro organic matter digestibility. There was a negative linear and quadratic (p < 0.01) relation between CT concentration and total volatile fatty acid (VFA) production. Inclusion of 80 and 120 g CT/kg of substrate DM reduced (p < 0.001) branched‐chain VFA production and acetate: propionate ratio and was lowest for CPI63767. A decrease in proteolytic activity as indirectly shown by a change in VFA composition favouring a shift towards propionate and reduction in branched‐chain VFA production varied with type of CT and was highest for CPI63767. In conclusion, these results suggest that tannin polymer size is an important factor affecting in vitro CH4 production which may be linked to the CT interaction with dietary substrate or microbial cells.
Modelling and determination of metabolic pools by stable carbon isotopes in the avian duodenal mucosa and albumen
Authors: Ducatti C. , Sartori M. M. P. , Denadai J. C. , Costa V. E. , Pelícia V. C. , Macari M.
Published: May 2015

Stable isotope analyses have helped in assessing dietary switches if the diet undergoes metabolic alteration (isotopic exchange). However, when considering the effects over time of switching from one diet to another, one can assess how quickly the new diet is incorporated into tissues via the isotopic renewal or incorporation rate, or turnover. Turnover is obtained using exponential curves that fit the original data, allowing the determination of practical order parameters such as the half‐life (T) and the turnover constant (k). Researchers have found that metabolic incorporation can be fractionated. The resulting fractions, called metabolic pools, are identified using the linearization of the isotopic exchange model and its linear fit. This fractionation methodology is still not well defined. The objective of this study was to assess the behaviour of the metabolic renewal rate (turnover) in fractionated form, explain the theory, and apply it to data from the avian duodenal mucosa and albumen. We concluded that the duodenal mucosa has one metabolic pool, with a half‐life of 1.23 days, and that the albumen has two metabolic pools, with half‐lives of 1.89 and 6.32 days.
Impact of dietary plane of energy during the dry period on lipoprotein parameters in the transition period in dairy cattle
Authors: Newman A. , Mann S. , Nydam D. V. , Overton T. R. , Behling‐Kelly E.
Published: May 2015

The high energy demands of dairy cows during the transition period from late gestation into early lactation can place them at an increased risk for the development of metabolic and infectious diseases. Modification of the dry period diet has been investigated as a preventive means to minimize the detrimental aspects of metabolic shifts during the transition period. Studies investigating the impact of dry period diet on lipid parameters during the transition period have largely focused on markers of lipolysis and ketogenesis. Total cholesterol declines during the periparturient period and increases in early lactation. The impact total energy in the dry period diet has on the ability of the cow to maintain total serum cholesterol, as well as its natural high‐density lipoprotein‐rich status, during this metabolically challenging window is not clear. The impact of lipoproteins on inflammation and immune function may have a clinical impact on the cow's ability to ward off production‐related diseases. In this study, we hypothesized that the provision of adequate, but not excessive, total metabolizable energy, would better allow the cow to maintain total cholesterol and a higher relative proportion of HDL throughout the transition period. Cows were allocated to one of three dry period dietary treatment groups following a randomized block design. Total serum triglycerides, cholesterol and lipoprotein fractions were measured on a weekly basis from approximately 7 weeks pre‐calving to 6 weeks post‐calving. The cows on the high energy diet maintained total serum cholesterol as compared to the cows provided a lower energy diet, but there was no significant increase in the LDL fraction of lipoproteins between diet treatment groups.
Slow‐flow habitats as refugia for coastal calcifiers from ocean acidification
Authors: Hurd Catriona L.
Published: May 2015

The pH of the oceans’ surface water is dropping, termed ocean acidification (OA), and the 0.4 unit reduction in pH by 2100 is projected to negatively impact benthic coastal organisms that produce calcium carbonate “skeletons.” Research has focussed on identifying species that are susceptible to OA, but there is an urgent need to discover refuge habitats that will afford protection to vulnerable species. The susceptibility of calcium carbonate skeletons to dissolution by OA depends on the pH at their surface, and this is controlled by the interaction between seawater velocity and organismal metabolism. This perspective considers how seawater velocity modifies the responses of calcifying organisms (seaweed, shellfish, and tropical corals) to OA through its action on controlling diffusion boundary layer thickness and thereby the pH and calcium carbonate saturation state (Ω) at the organisms’ surface. Evidence is presented to support the idea that slow‐flow habitats, such as wave‐sheltered bays or the within canopies of seaweed/seagrass beds, might provide inexpensive refugia from OA for vulnerable coastal calcifiers.
Persistent inter‐ and intraspecific gene exchange within a parallel radiation of caterpillar hunter beetles (Calosomasp.) from theGalápagos
Authors: Hendrickx Frederik , Backeljau Thierry , Dekoninck Wouter , Van Belleghem Steven M. , Vandomme Viki , Vangestel Carl
Published: May 2015

When environmental gradients are repeated on different islands within an archipelago, similar selection pressures may act within each island, resulting in the repeated occurrence of ecologically similar species on each island. The evolution of ecotypes within such radiations may either result from dispersal, that is each ecotype evolved once and dispersed to different islands where it colonized its habitat, or through repeated and parallel speciation within each island. However, it remains poorly understood how gene flow during the divergence process may shape such patterns. In the Galápagos islands, three phenotypically similar species of the beetle genusCalosomaoccur at higher elevations of different islands, while lowlands are occupied by a fourth species. By genotyping all major populations within this radiation for two nuclear and three mitochondrial gene fragments and seven microsatellite markers, we found strong support that the oldest divergence separates the highland species of the oldest island from the remaining species. Despite their morphological distinctness, highland species of the remaining islands were genetically closely related to the lowland population on each island and within the same magnitude as lowland populations sampled at different islands. Repeated evolution of highland ecotypes out of the lowland species appears the most likely scenario and estimates of geneflow rates revealed extensive admixture among ecotypes within islands, as well as between islands. These findings indicate that gene exchange among the different populations and species may have shaped the phylogenetic relationships and the repeated evolution of these ecotypes.
Population genetic structure of Bombus terrestris in Europe: Isolation and genetic differentiation of Irish and British populations
Authors: Moreira António S. , Horgan Finbarr G. , Murray Tomás E. , Kakouli‐Duarte Thomais
Published: May 2015

The genetic structure of the earth bumblebee (Bombus terrestris L.) was examined across 22 wild populations and two commercially reared populations using eight microsatellite loci and two mitochondrial genes. Our study included wild bumblebee samples from six populations in Ireland, one from the Isle of Man, four from Britain and 11 from mainland Europe. A further sample was acquired from New Zealand. Observed levels of genetic variability and heterozygosity were low in Ireland and the Isle of Man, but relatively high in continental Europe and among commercial populations. Estimates of Fst revealed significant genetic differentiation among populations. Bayesian cluster analysis indicated that Irish populations were highly differentiated from British and continental populations, the latter two showing higher levels of admixture. The data suggest that the Irish Sea and prevailing south westerly winds act as a considerable geographical barrier to gene flow between populations in Ireland and Britain; however, some immigration from the Isle of Man to Ireland was detected. The results are discussed in the context of the recent commercialization of bumblebees for the European horticultural industry.