bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterization of the Mycelial Compatibility Groups and Mating Type Alleles in Populations of Sclerotinia minor in Central China
Authors: Yang Dan , Zhang Jing , Wu Mingde , Chen Weidong , Li Guoqing , Yang Long
Published: May 2016

Ninety-five single-sclerotium isolates were obtained from lettuce and weeds in three counties in central China. They were identified belonging to Sclerotinia minor based on colony morphology and the S. minor-specific DNA marker. Mycelial compatibility groups (MCGs) and the mating type (MAT) alleles in these isolates were determined using the methods of paired cultures and specific PCR, respectively, and the MCG data were used to calculate Shannon’s H index (H) and Simpson index (S), thereby evaluating diversity of S. minor. Eight MCGs (MCG1 to MCG8) and two MAT alleles (Inv+, Inv–) were identified in these isolates. Low diversity was detected for the total 95 isolates (H = 1.748, S = 0.786). Isolates of different MCGs or with different MAT alleles did not significantly differ (P > 0.05) in mycelial growth rate on potato dextrose agar (PDA, 20°C) or lesion diameter on lettuce leaves (20°C), but slightly differed in the number of sclerotia produced on PDA (20°C). Furthermore, this study reported five new host plants of S. minor in China, including Capsella bursa-pastoris, Oenanthe javanica, Fragaria gracilis, Ranunculus ternatus, and Salvia plebeia, and identified three hypovirulent isolates. These results broaden our understanding about the population biology of S. minor.
QTL mapping reveals complex genetic architecture of quantitative virulence in the wheat pathogenZymoseptoria tritici
Authors: Stewart E. L. , Croll D. , Lendenmann M. H. , Vallet A. Sanchez , Hartmann F. E. , Guerrero J Palma , Ma Z. , McDonald B. A.
Published: May 2016

We conducted a comprehensive analysis of virulence in the fungal wheat pathogenZymoseptoria triticiusing QTL mapping. High throughput phenotyping based on automated image analysis allowed measurement of pathogen virulence on a scale and with a precision that was not previously possible. Across two mapping populations encompassing more than 520 progeny, 540,710 pycnidia were counted and their sizes and grey values were measured, yielding over 1.6 million phenotypes associated with pathogen reproduction. Large pycnidia were shown to produce more numerous and larger spores than small pycnidia. Precise measures of percent leaf area covered by lesions provided a quantitative measure of host damage. Combining these large and accurate phenotype datasets with a dense panel of RADseq genetic markers enabled us to genetically dissect pathogen virulence into components related to host damage and components related to pathogen reproduction. We show that different components of virulence can be under separate genetic control. Large-and small-effect QTLs were identified for all traits, with some QTLs specific to mapping populations, cultivars and traits and other QTLs shared among traits within the same mapping population. We associated the presence or absence of accessory chromosomes with several virulence traits, providing the first evidence for an important function associated with accessory chromosomes in this organism. A large-effect QTL involved in host specialization was identified on chromosome 7, leading to identification of candidate genes having a large effect on virulence.
Measuring Cysteine Cathepsin Activity to Detect Lysosomal Membrane Permeabilization
Authors: Repnik Urška , Česen Maruša Hafner , Turk Boris
Published: May 2016

During lysosomal membrane permeabilization (LMP), lysosomal lumenal contents can be released into the cytosol. Small molecules are more likely to be released, and cysteine cathepsins, with mature forms possessing a mass of 25–30 kDa, are among the smallest lumenal lysosomal enzymes. In addition, specific substrates for cysteine cathepsins are available to investigators, and therefore the measurement of the cathepsin activity as a hallmark of LMP works well. Here, we present a protocol for measuring the activity of these enzymes after selective plasma membrane permeabilization with a low concentration of digitonin and after total cell membrane lysis with a high concentration of digitonin. A fluorogenic substrate can be added either directly to the well with lysed cells to show LMP or to the cell-free extract to show that the lysosomal membrane has been sufficiently destabilized to allow the translocation of lysosomal enzymes. Although the content of lysosomal cysteine cathepsins differs between cell lines, this method has general applicability, is sensitive, and has high throughput. The presented protocol shows how to measure cysteine cathepsin activity in the presence of lysed cells and also in cell-free extracts. Depending on the aim of the study, one or both types of measurements can be performed.
Identifying Products of Recombinase-Mediated Cassette Exchange (RMCE) in Schizosaccharomyces pombe
Authors: Murray Johanne M. , Watson Adam T. , Carr Antony M.
Published: May 2016

Homologous recombination is highly efficient when mediated between two identical target sequences by recombination enzymes such as Cre. Exploiting this, recombinase-mediated cassette exchange (RMCE) was developed for the genetic manipulation of eukaryotic cells, including those of Schizosaccharomyces pombe. RMCE can be summarized in three stages: (1) A loxP-ura4+-loxM3 cassette is introduced into the genome using standard homologous recombination techniques to create a “base strain.” (2) A Cre-expression plasmid carrying a protein tag or replacement gene flanked by loxP and loxM3 is introduced into the cell. (3) Cassette exchange between the chromosomal cassette and the plasmid cassette results in either gene tagging or gene replacement. This is selected for by loss of the marker. This protocol explains how to identify the products of the exchange events in the last stage.
Contrasting patterns of short‐term indirect seed–seed interactions mediated by scatter‐hoarding rodents
Authors: Xiao Zhishu , Zhang Zhibin
Published: May 2016

It is well known that direct effects of seed predators or dispersers can have strong effects on seedling establishment. However, we have limited knowledge about the indirect species interactions between seeds of different species that are mediated by shared seed predators and/or dispersers and their consequences for plant demography and diversity. Because scatter‐hoarding rodents as seed dispersers may leave some hoarded seeds uneaten, scatter hoarding may serve to increase seed survival and dispersal. Consequently, the presence of heterospecific seeds could alter whether the indirect interactions mediated by scatter‐hoarding rodents have a net positive effect, creating apparent mutualism between seed species, or a net negative effect, creating apparent competition between seed species.

We present a testable framework to measure short‐term indirect effects between co‐occurring plant species mediated by seed scatter‐hoarding rodents. We tested this framework in a subtropical forest in south‐west China using a replacement design and tracked the fate of individually tagged seeds in experimental patches. We manipulated the benefits to rodents by using low‐tannin dormant chestnuts as palatable food and high‐tannin non‐dormant acorns as unpalatable food.

We found that seed palatability changed the amount of scatter hoarding that occurred when seeds co‐occurred either among or within patches. Consistent with our predictions, scatter‐hoarding rodents created apparent mutualism through increasing seed removal and seed caching, and enhancing survival, of both plant species in mixed patches compared with monospecific patches. However, if we ignore scatter hoarding and treat all seed harvest as seed predation (and not dispersal), then apparent competition between palatable chestnuts and unpalatable acorns was also observed.

This study is the first to demonstrate that foraging decisions by scatter‐hoarding animals to scatter hoard seeds for later consumption (or loss) or consume them can influence indirect effects among co‐occurring seeds, and rodent‐mediated indirect effects vary depending on whether the harvested seeds are hoarded or eaten.
On the link between functional traits and growth rate: meta‐analysis shows effects change with plant size, as predicted
Authors: Gibert Anaïs , Gray Emma F. , Westoby Mark , Wright Ian J. , Falster Daniel S.
Published: May 2016

A plant's growth rate is seen as a central element of its ecological strategy, and as determined by its traits. Yet the literature is inconsistent about the empirical correlation between functional traits and growth, casting doubt on the capacity of some prominent traits to influence growth rate.

We propose that traits should influence growth in a way that depends on the size of individual plants. We outline mechanisms and hypotheses based on new theoretical work and test these predictions in tree species using a meta‐analysis of 103 studies (> 500 correlations) for five traits (specific leaf area, wood density, maximum height, seed mass and maximum assimilation rate). We also recorded data for 14 other traits commonly used in the trait literature. To capture the effects of plant size, we tested for a shift in the direction of correlation between growth rates and each trait across three ontogenetic stages: seedling, sapling and adult.

Results were consistent with predictions, although there were some limitations arising from unequal numbers of observation across ontogenetic stages. Specific leaf area was correlated with relative growth rate in seedlings but not in adult plants. Correlations of growth with wood density were not affected by ontogenetic stage. Seed mass, assimilation rate and maximum height were correlated with relative growth rate only in one ontogenetic stage category: seedlings, seedlings and adults, respectively.

Although we were able to confirm several of our theoretical predictions, major knowledge gaps still exist in the trait literature. For example, for one‐third of the traits considered, the majority (> 75%) of reported correlations with growth came from the same ontogenetic stage.

Synthesis. We show for some traits, how trait–growth correlations change in a predictable way with plant size. Our understanding of plant strategies should shift away from describing species as having a fixed growth strategy throughout their life (on a continuous axis from slow to fast growth), in favour of a size‐dependent growth trajectories.
The Role of Interface Shape on the Impact Characteristics and Cranial Fracture Patterns Using the Immature Porcine Head Model, ,
Authors: Vaughan Patrick E. , Vogelsberg Caitlin C. M. , Vollner Jennifer M. , Fenton Todd W. , Haut Roger C.
Published: May 2016

The forensic literature suggests that when adolescents fall onto edged and pointed surfaces, depressed fractures can occur at low energy levels. This study documents impact biomechanics and fracture characteristics of infant porcine skulls dropped onto flat, curved, edged, and focal surfaces. Results showed that the energy needed for fracture initiation was nearly four times higher against a flat surface than against the other surfaces. While characteristic measures of fracture such as number and length of fractures did not vary with impact surface shape, the fracture patterns did depend on impact surface shape. While experimental impacts against the flat surface produced linear fractures initiating at sutural boundaries peripheral to the point of impact (POI), more focal impacts produced depressed fractures initiating at the POI. The study supported case‐based forensic literature suggesting cranial fracture patterns depend on impact surface shape and that fracture initiation energy is lower for more focal impacts.
Campylobacter jejuni in Musca domestica: An examination of survival and transmission potential in light of the innate immune responses of the house flies
Authors: Gill Carson , Bahrndorff Simon , Lowenberger Carl
Published: May 2016

The house fly, Musca domestica, has been implicated as a vector of Campylobacter spp., a major cause of human disease. Little is known whether house flies serve as biological amplifying hosts or mechanical vectors for Campylobacter jejuni. We investigated the period after C. jejuni had been ingested by house flies in which viable C. jejuni colonies could be isolated from whole bodies, the vomitus and the excreta of adult M. domestica and evaluated the activation of innate immune responses of house flies to ingested C. jejuni over time. C. jejuni could be cultured from infected houseflies soon after ingestion but no countable C. jejuni colonies were observed > 24 h postingestion. We detected viable C. jejuni in house fly vomitus and excreta up to 4 h after ingestion, but no viable bacteria were detected ≥ 8 h. Suppression subtractive hybridization identified pathogen‐induced gene expression in the intestinal tracts of adult house flies 4–24 h after ingesting C. jejuni. We measured the expression of immune regulatory (thor, JNK, and spheroide) and effector (cecropin, diptericin, attacin, defensing, and lysozyme) genes in C. jejuni‐infected and ‐uninfected house flies using quantitative real time PCR. Some house fly factor, or combination of factors, eliminates C. jejuni within 24 h postingestion. Because C. jejuni is not amplified within the body of the housefly, this insect likely serves as a mechanical vector rather than as a true biological, amplifying vector for C. jejuni, and adds to our understanding of insect–pathogen interactions.
A spotlight on snow leopard conservation in China
Authors: ALEXANDER Justine S , ZHANG Chengcheng , SHI Kun , RIORDAN Philip
Published: May 2016

China holds the greatest proportion of the snow leopard's (Panthera uncia) global range and is central to their conservation. The country is also undergoing unprecedented economic growth, which increases both the threats to the snow leopard and the opportunities for its conservation. In this paper we aim to review published literature (from 1950 to 2014) in English and Mandarin on snow leopard ecology and conservation in China in order to identify thematic and geographic research gaps and propose research priorities. We first retrieved all published items that considered snow leopards in China (n = 106). We extracted from these papers 274 reports of snow leopard presence in China. We then reviewed a subset of papers (n = 33) of this literature, which specifically focused on snow leopard ecology and conservation within China. We introduced a thematic framework that allows a structured and comprehensive assessment of findings. This framework recognizes 4 critical and interrelated topics underpinning snow leopard ecology and conservation: habitat (distribution and protected area coverage); prey (distribution and abundance, predator–prey relationships); human interactions (hunting and trade, livestock interactions and conflicts); and the underlying policy context. Significant gains in knowledge as well as research gaps and priorities are discussed with reference to our framework. The modest quantity and limited scope of published research on the snow leopard in China calls for a continued and intensified effort to inform and support national conservation policies.
Isaacs' syndrome in a patient with dermatomyositis: case report and review of the literature
Authors: Lertnawapan Ratchaya , Kulkantrakorn Kongkiat
Published: May 2016

This is a case report of Isaacs' syndrome in dermatomyositis. The patient presented with proximal muscle weakness, rash, elevated muscle enzyme, myopathic electromyograph and typical muscle biopsy. Ultimately he developed typical symptoms of Isaacs' syndrome which is an autoimmune channelopathy from voltage gated potassium channel antibody (anti‐VGKC) leading to dysfunction of axonal discharge at neuromuscular junctions. It shares some similar characteristics with dermatomyositis such as autoimmunity, its association with malignancy and the response to treatment.
The role of staging surgery in the treatment of apparent early‐stage malignant ovarian germ cell tumours
Authors: Zhao Ting , Zhang Hao , Liu Yan , Jiang Hongyuan , Wang Xiao , Lu Yuan
Published: May 2016

Background

Malignant ovarian germ cell tumours (MOGCTs) are usually detected at an early stage, with patients achieving a satisfactory prognosis. However, the role of staging surgery in the treatment of apparent early‐stage MOGCTs remains controversial.

Aims

To investigate the role of staging procedures in apparent early‐stage patients.

Materials and Methods

We performed a retrospective review of 102 patients who were diagnosed with MOGCTs and had malignant lesions confined to their ovaries, between January 1997 and October 2014 at the Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China. Statistical analysis was carried out using SPSS software which included survival analysis by Kaplan–Meier method and Fisher's exact test.

Results

Three patients relapsed and one died. The five‐year overall survival rate and disease‐free survival rate were 98.7% and 96.4%, respectively. Eighty‐nine patients (87.3%) received adjuvant chemotherapy and only 23 patients (22.5%) were completely staged. In total, 3/49 (6.1%), 1/44 (2.3%) and 0/49 (0.0%) patients were diagnosed with malignant cells in peritoneal fluid, pelvic lymph nodes and omentum, respectively. Positive tumour cells were not correlated with recurrence. Univariate analysis revealed that neither complete staging surgery nor individual factors were useful prognostic factors for disease‐free survival.

Conclusions

The staging surgery could be omitted for apparent early‐stage patients affected by MOGCTs without adverse impact upon survival.
Stereotype Content Model, Causal Models, and Allegations of Age Discrimination: Should the Law Change?
Authors: Farnum Katlyn S. , Wiener Richard L.
Published: May 2016

In 2009, the Supreme Court decided, in Gross v. FBL, that the law governing age discrimination should be interpreted in a stricter manner than before. After Gross, age discrimination claims are tried under but for causality in which the plaintiff's age must be the direct cause of the adverse action, as opposed to mixed motive causality allowable under Title VII, in which age would only have to be a motivating factor. Previous research has shown that but for instructions lead to more pro‐defendant verdicts, regardless of case strength, as compared to mixed motive instructions. This study reports on a simulated jury experiment that sought to uncover the influence of stereotypes concerning older workers on juror verdicts in an age discrimination case. Older worker stereotypes were assessed using the Stereotype Content Model's warmth and competence dimensions. In line with previous research, participants were more likely to find for the defendant under but for instructions, as compared to mixed motive. Further, mock jurors’ stereotypes predicted their verdicts, but only under the but for instructions, suggesting that jurors rely on stereotypes when they are limited in the case facts they can consider. Implications for policy changes and future research directions are discussed.
Microparticles in sickle cell anaemia: promise and pitfalls
Authors: Hebbel Robert P. , Key Nigel S.
Published: May 2016

Blood from patients with sickle cell disease contains microparticles (MP) derived from multiple cell sources, including red cells, platelets, monocytes and endothelial cells. MPs are of great interest because of their disease associations, their status as promising biomarkers, and the intercellular communications they mediate. To illustrate the likelihood of their relevance in sickle cell disease, we discuss the nature of MP, their profiling in sickle disease, some caveats relevant to their detection, their roles in supporting coagulation and the disparate influences they may exert upon the pathobiology of sickle cell disease.
Water‐soluble derivatives of 4‐oxo‐N‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) retinamide: synthesis and biological activity
Authors: Musso Loana , Tiberio Paola , Appierto Valentina , Cincinelli Raffaella , Cavadini Elena , Cleris Loredana , Daidone Maria Grazia , Dallavalle Sabrina
Published: May 2016

A novel series of 4‐oxo‐N‐(4‐hydroxyphenyl) retinamide (4‐oxo‐4‐HPR) derivatives were synthesized with the aim of increasing the poor solubility of the parent compound in biological fluids, while maintaining the cytotoxic activity and the dual mechanism of action. The most promising compound 13a showed antiproliferative/apoptotic activity. The analysis of its mechanism of action revealed that it retained the particular characteristic of 4‐oxo‐4‐HPR which is able to induce cell cycle arrest during the mitotic phase, coupled with the formation of aberrant mitotic spindles.
Assent for children's participation in research: why it matters and making it meaningful
Authors: Oulton K. , Gibson F. , Sell D. , Williams A. , Pratt L. , Wray J.
Published: May 2016

Background

There are gaps in the existing evidence base about assent, with conflicting and unhelpful views prevalent. We contend that appropriate assent is a valuable process that has important consequences for children's/young people's participation in research. Furthermore, there is a need for a model to support researchers in making decisions about who to assent and how to do this is a meaningful way.

Methods

We undertook a scoping review of the literature to assess the body of opinion on assent in research with children/young people. An anonymous online survey was conducted to gather views from the wider community undertaking research with children/young people. We also sought to gather examples of current and effective practice that could be shared beyond the level of a single institution and our own experience. Survey participants included 48 health professionals with varied levels of experience, all actively involved in research with children.

Results

Published work, the findings from the online survey and our knowledge as experienced researchers in the field have confirmed four domains that should be considered in order for assent to be meaningful and individualized: child‐related factors, family dynamics, study design and complexity and researcher and organizational factors. Mapping these domains onto the three paradigm cases for decision‐making around children and young people's assent/consent as recommended by the Nuffield Council on Bioethics has resulted in a model that will aid researchers in understanding the relationship between assent and consent and help them make decisions about when assent is appropriate.

Conclusions

The debate about assent needs to move away from terminology, definition and legal issues. It should focus instead on practical ways of supporting researchers to work in partnership with children, thus ensuring a more informed, voluntary and more robust and longer lasting commitment to research.
Rounding up the usual suspects: a standard target‐gene approach for resolving the interfamilial phylogenetic relationships of ecribellate orb‐weaving spiders with a new family‐rank classification (Araneae, Araneoidea)
Authors: Dimitrov Dimitar , Benavides Ligia R. , Arnedo Miquel A. , Giribet Gonzalo , Griswold Charles E. , Scharff Nikolaj , Hormiga Gustavo
Published: May 2016

We test the limits of the spider superfamily Araneoidea and reconstruct its interfamilial relationships using standard molecular markers. The taxon sample (363 terminals) comprises for the first time representatives of all araneoid families, including the first molecular data of the family Synaphridae. We use the resulting phylogenetic framework to study web evolution in araneoids. Araneoidea is monophyletic and sister to Nicodamoidea rank. n. Orbiculariae are not monophyletic and also include the RTA clade, Oecobiidae and Hersiliidae. Deinopoidea is paraphyletic with respect to a lineage that includes the RTA clade, Hersiliidae and Oecobiidae. The cribellate orb‐weaving family Uloboridae is monophyletic and is sister group to a lineage that includes the RTA Clade, Hersiliidae and Oecobiidae. The monophyly of most Araneoidea families is well supported, with a few exceptions. Anapidae includes holarchaeids but the family remains diphyletic even if Holarchaea is considered an anapid. The orb‐web is ancient, having evolved by the early Jurassic; a single origin of the orb with multiple “losses” is implied by our analyses. By the late Jurassic, the orb‐web had already been transformed into different architectures, but the ancestors of the RTA clade probably built orb‐webs. We also find further support for a single origin of the cribellum and multiple independent losses. The following taxonomic and nomenclatural changes are proposed: the cribellate and ecribellate nicodamids are grouped in the superfamily Nicodamoidea rank n. (Megadictynidae rank res. and Nicodamidae stat. n.). Araneoidea includes 17 families with the following changes: Araneidae is re‐circumscribed to include nephilines, Nephilinae rank res., Arkyidae rank n., Physoglenidae rank n., Synotaxidae is limited to the genus Synotaxus, Pararchaeidae is a junior synonym of Malkaridae (syn. n.), Holarchaeidae of Anapidae (syn. n.) and Sinopimoidae of Linyphiidae (syn. n.).
FIT for the future: a case for risk‐based colorectal cancer screening using the faecal immunochemical test
Authors: Cooper J. A. , Moss S. M. , Smith S. , Seaman H. E. , Taylor‐Phillips S. , Parsons N. , Halloran S. P.
Published: May 2016

Worldwide, the guaiac faecal occult blood test (gFOBT) is being replaced with the more accurate faecal immunochemical test (FIT) for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. From January 2016, the National Screening Committee in the UK has recommended a change from the gFOBT to the FIT following a successful Bowel Cancer Screening Programme pilot study with over 40 000 participants. Although the test has shown improved uptake and the ability to detect significantly more colorectal cancers and advanced adenomas, the higher uptake and test positivity will challenge the capacity of colonoscopy services. One of the main advantages of the FIT is that it provides a quantitative haemoglobin concentration which has been shown to relate to the risk of CRC. Risk scoring systems which combine the FIT concentration with risk factor assessment have been shown to improve the sensitivity of the test. This individualized approach to screening could enable those at greatest risk to be referred for colonoscopy, optimizing resource use and ultimately patient outcomes.
Regulation of the neural niche by the soluble molecule Akhirin
Authors: Acharjee Uzzal Kumar , Felemban Athary Abdulhaleem , Riyadh Asrafuzzaman M. , Ohta Kunimasa
Published: May 2016

Though the adult central nervous system has been considered a comparatively static tissue with little turnover, it is well established today that new neural cells are generated throughout life. Neural stem/progenitor cells (NS/PCs) can self‐renew and generate all types of neural cells. The proliferation of NS/PCs, and differentiation and fate determination of PCs are regulated by extrinsic factors such as growth factors, neurotrophins, and morphogens. Although several extrinsic factors that influence neurogenesis have already been reported, little is known about the role of soluble molecules in neural niche regulation. In this review, we will introduce the soluble molecule Akhirin and discuss its role in the eye and spinal cord during development.
A difficult case of recurrent hypoglycaemia: role of insulin assays in establishing the diagnosis
Authors: Joshi T. , Caswell A. , Acharya S.
Published: May 2016

Background

Insulin assays are designed to detect endogenous insulin, however, insulin assays produced by different manufacturers may detect exogenous recombinant insulin, with varying degrees of cross‐reactivity between different assays. We report a fascinating and difficult case of recurrent hypoglycaemia, where the final diagnosis was established with the help of insulin assays using different platforms.

Case Report

A 24‐year‐old female presented with recurrent hypoglycaemic episodes on a background of Type 1 diabetes mellitus and a completely resected synovial sarcoma of the right hip several years previously. She reported significant physical, sexual and emotional abuse leading to reduced appetite and weight loss. Despite withdrawing insulin therapy, she experienced profound hypoglycaemic episodes with detectable C‐peptide and inappropriately elevated insulin levels, suggesting endogenous hyperinsulinaemic hypoglycaemia; however, localization studies were negative and finally she was found to have exogenous hyperinsulinaemia after discordant insulin levels were detected using two different insulin assays. The C‐peptide level was elevated as a result of stimulation by parenteral dextrose and was suppressed after dextrose was ceased. Her Type 1 diabetes mellitus was fabricated and she had factitious hypoglycaemia.

Conclusions

Factitious hypoglycemia is difficult to diagnose and treat. A low blood glucose level, suppressed C‐peptide level and an inappropriately elevated insulin level is the classic finding. We were able to make a diagnosis in the present case after discordant insulin levels were detected on the two different insulin assays, signifying cross‐reactivities of the recombinant insulin with the assays. A multidisciplinary team approach with psychiatric input is needed to treat such cases.
Effect of bright wing color of males on other males in Favonius taxila (Lepidoptera: Lycaenidae) with sexual dimorphism in wing color
Authors: Imafuku Michio , Hirose Yukihiro
Published: May 2016

To examine the effect of wing colors of Favonius taxila males on other males, an intact bright butterfly model or a dull butterfly model whose wing scales had been dislodged was placed in a potential territory, and the behavior of invading males was recorded. The invader showed decreased probability of landing there with a bright model in place compared with a dull model, and exhibited complex flights with frequent turning for a bright model, in contrast to simple flights with relatively linear paths for a dull model. These results support the idea of intrasexual selection in which bright colors of males' wings have evolved through male–male interactions.
Evolutionary and social consequences of introgression of nontransgenic herbicide resistance from rice to weedy rice in Brazil
Authors: Merotto Aldo , Goulart Ives C. G. R. , Nunes Anderson L. , Kalsing Augusto , Markus Catarine , Menezes Valmir G. , Wander Alcido E.
Published: May 2016

Several studies have expressed concerns about the effects of gene flow from transgenic herbicide‐resistant crops to their wild relatives, but no major problems have been observed. This review describes a case study in which what has been feared in transgenics regarding gene flow has actually changed biodiversity and people's lives. Nontransgenic imidazolinone‐resistant rice (IMI‐rice) cultivars increased the rice grain yield by 50% in southern Brazil. This increase was beneficial for life quality of the farmers and also improved the regional economy. However, weedy rice resistant to imidazolinone herbicides started to evolve three years after the first use of IMI‐rice cultivars. Population genetic studies indicate that the herbicide‐resistant weedy rice was mainly originated from gene flow from resistant cultivars and distributed by seed migration. The problems related with herbicide‐resistant weedy rice increased the production costs of rice that forced farmers to sell or rent their land. Gene flow from cultivated rice to weedy rice has proven to be a large agricultural, economic, and social constraint in the use of herbicide‐resistant technologies in rice. This problem must be taken into account for the development of new transgenic or nontransgenic rice technologies.
City of sojourners versus city of settlers: transnationalism, location and identity among Taiwanese professionals in London and Toronto
Authors: MOORE FIONA
Published: May 2016

In this article I explore the impact of location on transnational identities through an ethnographic case study of Taiwanese professionals in London and Toronto. I argue, first, that both groups use their transnational identities not just to bridge two cultures, but also as a strategic resource for building connections with many different groups. Second, I argue that the expression of transnational identity is different in each local context, as it is framed through London's identity as a ‘global city of sojourners’, and Toronto's as a ‘global city of settlers’. Finally, I argue that this, combined with the strategic use of identity in each location, influences each group's transnational connections and affects their ability to construct networks.
Social embeddedness in a harmonized Europe: the social networks of European migrants with a native partner in Belgium and the Netherlands
Authors: KOELET SUZANA , VAN MOL CHRISTOF , DE VALK HELGA A. G.
Published: May 2016

Although intra‐European migration is often considered relatively easy to realize given European citizens' right to freedom of movement, settlement in another European country can still be experienced as socially disruptive. Insights in the insertion processes of European migrants, nevertheless, remain rather scarce. In this study, we analyse the social networks of European nationals with a native partner in Belgium and the Netherlands. The analysis is based on survey data from the EUMARR project (n = 576). First, we study the size and composition of European migrants' local family and friendship networks, and the frequency of contact with these networks. Second, we connect intra‐EU movers' insertion routes to investments in transnational networks in their home country. The results reveal how size, composition and contact with the local and transnational network change over time. Children help to maintain contact with both the local and transnational family network and form a bridge for parents to meet own friends in the host country. Moreover, having own friends and own family around matters for contact frequency with the local networks.
Inverting the boomerang: examining the legitimacy of North–South–North campaigns in transnational advocacy
Authors: PALLAS CHRISTOPHER L.
Published: May 2016

The boomerang model is typically used to describe campaigns in which international NGOs respond to requests from local activists, often from marginalized populations, for assistance in addressing local needs. Such campaigns are perceived to represent local interests and have some accountability to local actors. However, while the local–international–local pattern is often accurate, it does not capture the full spectrum of campaign development. This article theorizes an international–local–international or ‘inverse’ boomerang, in which international NGOs facing an international policy blockage initiate a transnational campaign, recruiting local activists to assist in the international advocacy effort. The article demonstrates the theory's plausibility using several cases of Northern‐initiated advocacy. It then examines the implications of the model for campaign legitimacy. It finds that inverse boomerang campaigns benefit from the same presumptions of legitimacy as traditional boomerang campaigns, but that representivity and accountability are substantially weaker, potentially disempowering the campaigns' claimed stakeholders.
Nothing is in the Air
Authors: Fitjar Rune Dahl , Rodríguez‐Pose Andrés
Published: May 2016

It has often been argued that “there is something in the air” which makes firms in high‐density environments—such as cities or clusters—more innovative. The co‐location of firms facilitates the emergence of serendipity and casual encounters which promote innovation in firms. We assess this hypothesis using data from a survey of Norwegian firms engaged in innovation partnerships. The results indicate that there may be “much less in the air” than is generally assumed in the literature. The relationships conducive to innovation by Norwegian firms emerged as a consequence of purpose‐built searches and had little to do with chance, serendipity, or “being there.”
The environmental heterogeneity of sediment determines Chironomidae (Insecta: Diptera) distribution in lotic and lentic habitats in a tropical floodplain
Authors: Júnior Sidnei Pressinatte , Perbiche‐Neves Gilmar , Takeda Alice Michiyo
Published: May 2016

Several limnological variables including sediments affect community structure in lotic and lentic environments. In general, Chironomidae larvae are dominant in macroinvertebrate communities both in abundance and in species richness in floodplains. Using granulometric texture as a surrogate for heterogeneity, we hypothesised that the diversity and distribution of Chironomidae larvae is higher in more heterogeneous environments. For this study, samples were collected quarterly from February to December 2008 at 12 stations in a tropical floodplain including both lotic and lentic stations in the Paraná River.

We recorded 66 morphospecies belonging to three subfamilies. Density, species richness and alpha diversity were greater in lotic versus lentic environments. Granulometric data were more diverse in lotic environments according to the Shannon–Wiener index. Different species dominated each environment, and these taxonomic differences were demonstrated by detrended correspondence analysis (DCA). The link between granulometric characteristics and chironomid assemblages were further established by a significant correlation between granulometric variables and one or both of the DCA axes.

Thus, the results support our hypothesis and suggest that the diversity and distribution pattern of Chironomidae larvae can be related to sediment heterogeneity due to the higher values of the assemblage attributes found in the lotic environments.
Translating Management Concepts: Towards a Typology of Alternative Approaches
Authors: van Grinsven Marlieke , Heusinkveld Stefan , Cornelissen Joep
Published: May 2016

Translation has been established as an important theoretical perspective for studying the flow of management concepts. Yet, despite its potential, we find limited reflection on the various ways in which the perspective is understood and used. As the under‐theorized and fragmented discourse may hamper the progress of translation research as an academic field, it is in need of closer examination. The purpose of this paper is to explore the different conceptualizations of translation, in terms of their key foci and base assumptions, and to review the work that has accumulated into different sub‐streams. Based on a systematic literature review of 150 publications, we identify two theoretically relevant dimensions that mark important differences between these different streams of research: (1) the source of variation; and (2) the object of variation. With these dimensions, we develop a typology of four alternative approaches to translation and show how these are associated with institutional, rational, dramaturgical and political perspectives. We draw on these broader theoretical lenses to contextualize and deepen our understanding of the specific possibilities and limitations of alternative translation approaches, and we highlight the potential for further connections and integration between them.
Pitfalls of the self‐regulation of advertisements directed at children on Mexican television
Authors: Théodore F. L. , Tolentino‐Mayo L. , Hernández‐Zenil E. , Bahena L. , Velasco A. , Popkin B. , Rivera J. A. , Barquera S.
Published: May 2016

Background

There are no academic studies that characterize advertisements directed at children from the companies that signed the self‐regulation.

Objective

The aim of this paper was to assess the extent and nature of food advertisements and the persuasive techniques used to market unhealthy food and beverages (UFB) to children, by signatory companies of self‐regulation.

Methods

From December 2012 to April 2013, 600 h of programming were recorded on the four broadcast public television channels in Mexico with the highest rating nationwide. Marketing aimed at children directly (broadcast on children's programmes or advertisements with a specific appeal to children) or indirectly (aimed at other target audiences with messages or scenes that link children to the product) were considered.

Results

About 74.9% (2148) of the total food and beverage advertisements tried to influence children directly and indirectly. Companies, which had signed the self‐regulation, focused 92.7% of their advertisements on UFB. Of the total number, 23.9% were aimed at children, 7.1% at adolescents, 12.5% at parents and 56.2% at the general public. Most of these advertisements were broadcast on movies (29.8%), cartoons (18%), soap operas (17.6%), entertainment shows (17.2%) and sports programs (6.4%).

Conclusion

Despite the self‐regulation of television marketing, children were surrounded by UFB advertisements. Signatory companies influence children indirectly by targeting other audiences and by marketing during family television programs, which are also watched by children.
Maternal weight prior and during pregnancy and offspring's BMI and adiposity at 5–6 years in the EDEN mother–child cohort
Authors: Jacota M. , Forhan A. , Saldanha‐Gomes C. , Charles M. A. , Heude B. ,   for the EDEN Mother–Child Cohort Study Group
Published: May 2016

Background

Beyond pre‐pregnancy BMI, maternal weight change before and during pregnancy may also affect offspring adiposity.

Objective

To investigate the relationship between maternal weight history before and during pregnancy with children's adiposity at 5–6 years.

Methods

In 1069 mother–child dyads from the EDEN Cohort, we examined by linear regression the associations of children's BMI, fat mass and abdominal adiposity at 5–6 years with maternal pre‐pregnancy BMI, pre‐pregnancy average yearly weight change from age 20 and gestational weight gain. The shapes of relationships were investigated using splines and polynomial functions were tested.

Results

Children's BMI and adiposity parameters were positively associated with maternal pre‐pregnancy BMI, but these relationships were mainly seen in thin mothers, with no substantial variation for maternal BMI ranging from 22 to 35 kg/m2. Gestational weight gain was positively associated with children's BMI Z‐score, but again more so in thin mothers. We found no association with pre‐pregnancy weight change.

Conclusions

Before the adiposity rebound, maternal pre‐pregnancy thinness explains most of the relationship with children's BMI. The relationship may emerge at older ages in children of overweight and obese mothers, and this latency may be an obstacle to early prevention.
Retrospective study of primary reconstruction of facial traumatic events
Authors: Chen Baoguo , Song Huifeng , Gao Quanwen , Xu Minghuo , Chai Jiake
Published: May 2016

Facial traumatic events are commonly encountered in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Primary reconstruction is a reliable procedure with function and aesthetic considerations. We conduct a retrospective study of the experience of reconstructing facial traumatic defects in the first stage. One hundred and thirty‐two cases (aged 18–65) with facial traumatic events were recruited in the study from 2008 to 2014. Facial traumatic events included injured soft tissue, maxillofacial fractures and facial nerve rupture, which were repaired primarily. After primary reconstruction, encouraging functional and aesthetic outcomes were attained. Ten cases were re‐operated to reconstruct partial nasal defect. Four patients who had trouble with disabled occluding relations sought help from dentists. Inconspicuous scar and function restoration were presented. Facial wounds should be reconstructed in the first stage as far as possible. Then, satisfactory functional and aesthetic results can be achieved. However, combined injury should be carefully considered in those traumatic cases before we carry out the reconstructive surgery on the face.
Failure Mechanism Associated with the Thermally Grown Silica Scale in Environmental Barrier Coated C/SiC Composites
Authors: Lu Yonghong , Luo Lei , Liu Jia , Zhu Chao , Wang Yiguang
Published: May 2016

The barium strontium aluminosilicate and Y2Si2O7‐BSAS‐coated C/SiC composites were corroded in 50%H2O–50%O2 environments at 1250°C, respectively. It was found that the coated composites suddenly lost their strength as the corrosion time was up to 250 and 750 h, respectively. During the water vapor corrosion, a continuous silica scale was formed between the SiC bond coat and environmental barrier coatings, leading to the growth stress. The thickness of silica scale grew with the prolonged corrosion time, accompanied with the accumulation of growth stress in the silica scale. When the growth stress was greater than the bond strength between silica scale and SiC bond coat, the cracks would form and propagate along their interface, resulting in the spallation of EBCs, followed by the failure of the composites.
Investigating the effect of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) on postoperative pain intensity in adolescents undergoing surgery: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Maroufi Mohsen , Zamani Shahla , Izadikhah Zahra , Marofi Maryam , O'Connor Peter
Published: May 2016

Aim

To investigate the efficacy of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing for postoperative pain management in adolescents.

Background

Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing is an inexpensive, non‐pharmacological intervention that has successfully been used to treat chronic pain. It holds promise in the treatment of acute, postsurgical pain based on its purported effects on the brain and nervous system.

Design

A randomized controlled trial was used.

Methods

Fifty‐six adolescent surgical patients aged between 12‐18 years were allocated to gender‐balanced Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (treatment) or non‐Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (control) groups. Pain was measured using the Wong‐Baker FACES® Pain Rating Scale (WBFS) before and after the intervention (or non‐intervention for the control group).

Findings

A Wilcoxon signed‐rank test demonstrated that the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing group experienced a significant reduction in pain intensity after treatment intervention, whereas the control group did not. Additionally, a Mann–Whitney U‐test showed that, while there was no significant difference between the two groups at time 1, there was a significant difference in pain intensity between the two groups at time 2, with the Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing group experiencing lower levels of pain.

Conclusion

These results suggest that Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing may be an effective treatment modality for postoperative pain.