bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of land‐use change to Jatropha bioenergy plantations on biomass and soil carbon stocks: a field study in Mali
Authors: Degerickx Jeroen , Almeida Joana , Moonen Pieter C.J. , Vervoort Leen , Muys Bart , Achten Wouter M.J.
Published: June 2015

Small‐scale Jatropha cultivation and biodiesel production have the potential of contributing to local development, energy security, and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation. In recent years however, the GHG mitigation potential of biofuel crops is heavily disputed due to the occurrence of a carbon debt, caused by CO2 emissions from biomass and soil after land‐use change (LUC). Most published carbon footprint studies of Jatropha report modeled results based on a very limited database. In particular, little empirical data exist on the effects of Jatropha on biomass and soil C stocks. In this study, we used field data to quantify these C pools in three land uses in Mali, that is, Jatropha plantations, annual cropland, and fallow land, to estimate both the Jatropha C debt and its C sequestration potential. Four‐year‐old Jatropha plantations hold on average 2.3 Mg C ha−1 in their above‐ and belowground woody biomass, which is considerably lower compared to results from other regions. This can be explained by the adverse growing conditions and poor local management. No significant soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration could be demonstrated after 4 years of cultivation. While the conversion of cropland to Jatropha does not entail significant C losses, the replacement of fallow land results in an average C debt of 34.7 Mg C ha−1, mainly caused by biomass removal (73%). Retaining native savannah woodland trees on the field during LUC and improved crop management focusing on SOC conservation can play an important role in reducing Jatropha's C debt. Although planting Jatropha on degraded, carbon‐poor cropland results in a limited C debt, the low biomass production, and seed yield attained on these lands reduce Jatropha's potential to sequester C and replace fossil fuels. Therefore, future research should mainly focus on increasing Jatropha's crop productivity in these degraded lands.
Protein monoubiquitylation: targets and diverse functions
Authors: Nakagawa Tadashi , Nakayama Keiko
Published: June 2015

Ubiquitin is a 76‐amino acid protein whose conjugation to protein targets is a form of post‐translational modification. Protein ubiquitylation is characterized by the covalent attachment of the COOH‐terminal carboxyl group of ubiquitin to an amino group of the substrate protein. Given that the NH2‐terminal amino group is usually masked, internal lysine residues are most often targeted for ubiquitylation. Polyubiquitylation refers to the formation of a polyubiquitin chain on the substrate as a result of the ubiquitylation of conjugated ubiquitin. The structures of such polyubiquitin chains depend on the specific lysine residues of ubiquitin targeted for ubiquitylation. Most of the polyubiquitin chains other than those linked via lysine‐63 and methionine‐1 of ubiquitin are recognized by the proteasome and serve as a trigger for substrate degradation. In contrast, polyubiquitin chains linked via lysine‐63 and methionine‐1 serve as a binding platform for proteins that function in immune signal transduction or DNA repair. With the exception of a few targets such as histones, the functions of protein monoubiquitylation have remained less clear. However, recent proteomics analysis has shown that monoubiquitylation occurs more frequently than polyubiquitylation, and studies are beginning to provide insight into its biologically important functions. Here, we summarize recent findings on protein monoubiquitylation to provide an overview of the targets and molecular functions of this modification.
Loss of ADAR1 in human iPS cells promotes caspase3‐mediated apoptotic cell death
Authors: Katayama Shota , Shimoda Kaori , Takenaga Yuji
Published: June 2015

Adenosine deaminases acting on RNA (ADARs) convert adenosine residues to inosine specifically in double‐stranded RNAs. In this study, we investigated the function of primary RNA editing enzyme ADAR1 in pluripotent stem cells and found that loss of ADAR1 in human iPS cells promotes caspase3‐mediated cell death. However, ADAR1 knockdown (KD) did not alter cell morphology, alkaline phosphatase (AP) staining activities and the expression levels of pluripotent marker genes, indicating that ADAR1 is dispensable for maintenance of pluripotency. Furthermore, ADAR1‐KD iPS cells did not change proliferation rate. These findings extended the role of ADAR1 and might open the road for understanding pluripotent state more deeply.
Osmophobia and Headaches in Primary Care: Prevalence, Associated Factors, and Importance in Diagnosing Migraine
Authors: Rocha‐Filho Pedro Augusto Sampaio , Marques Karine Sobral , Torres Rinailda Cascia Santos , Leal Kamila Nazare Ribas
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence of osmophobia among primary headaches, evaluate the association between osmophobia and the characteristics of patients and their headaches, and assess the usefulness of this symptom for diagnosing migraine.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study in a primary care unit. Patients who consecutively sought medical attendance in a primary care unit were asked about headaches (convenience sample). Those who reported having had at least 1 episode of headache during the last 12 months were interviewed. Semi‐structured interview, the Headache Impact Test, and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were used.

Results

Two hundred thirty‐five patients had headaches, 147 patients had migraine (53% of them had osmophobia), and 87 had tension‐type headache (11.5% of them had osmophobia), and 1 patient had an unclassifiable headache. Among the headache patients, those with migraine and more years of headache history presented significantly more osmophobia (multivariate logistic regression).The sensitivity and specificity of osmophobia for establishing a diagnosis of migraine were 53.1% and 87.5%. The positive predictive value and negative predictive value were 87.6% and 52.7%.

Conclusion

We found high prevalence of osmophobia among migraine patients, and this complaint is useful in making the diagnosis of migraine in primary care. Osmophobia is associated with migraine and more years of headache history.
Reduced Baroreflex Sensitivity in Cluster Headache Patients
Authors: Barloese Mads C. J. , Mehlsen Jesper , Brinth Louise , Lundberg Helena I. S. , Jennum Poul J. , Jensen Rigmor H.
Published: June 2015

Objective and Background

Important elements of cluster headache (CH) pathophysiology may be seated in the posterior hypothalamus. Cranial autonomic features are inherent, but involvement of systemic autonomic control is still debated. We aimed to characterize autonomic function as investigated by baroreflex sensitivity (BRS) in CH patients.

Methods

Twenty‐six active CH patients and an equal number of age‐, sex‐, and BMI‐matched controls underwent head‐up tilt table test and BRS was determined by the sequence method.

Results

Compared with controls, patients exhibited a blunted reactivity of RR intervals in response to falls and increases in systolic blood pressure (SBP) (15.3 vs 20.0 ms/mmHg, P = .0041) in the supine position. Also, compared with controls, BRS was lower in patients having suffered an attack within the past 12 hours (n = 13, 12.5 vs 22.3 ms/mmHg, P = .0091), opposed to those patients who had not (n = 13, 16.0 ms/mmHg, P = .1523). In the tilted position, the drop in SBP at the carotid sinuses was higher in patients who had recently suffered an attack. Despite this, they exhibited a less marked shortening of RR intervals when compared with patients who had been attack free for longer.

Conclusions

CH patients exhibit a subclinical blunting of BRS that may be affected by the attacks themselves. The fast RR interval fluctuations used in this method reflects cardiovagal responses, thus the blunted responses are suggestive of dysfunction in the parasympathetic division of the autonomic nervous system or in the central relay of impulses from the baroreceptors.
Is the Problem of Divine Hiddenness a Problem for the Reformed Epistemologist?
Authors: Taber Tyler , McNabb Tyler Dalton
Published: June 2015

The problem of divine hiddenness, currently a much‐discussed topic in analytic philosophy of religion, can be (roughly) summarized in the question, ‘Why is God not more obvious or apparent?’ Sometimes the problem is used to undermine theistic belief. Here we seek to add a unique contribution to the growing debate on this theme from the perspective of Reformed epistemology, particularly Alvin Plantinga's construal; moreover, we do so in a way that is theologically relevant. We conclude, with assistance from Scripture and from Plantinga, that the problem of divine hiddenness is not a problem for the Reformed epistemologist.
A qualitative study examining the preparedness of dental hygiene students for a service‐learning placement in residential aged care
Authors: Wallace JP , Blinkhorn AS , Blinkhorn FA
Published: June 2015

Introduction

The aim of this qualitative study was to measure the effect of a specifically designed orientation re‐enactment DVD used to facilitate dental hygiene students transition from the classroom to a Residential Aged Care Facility (RACF) service‐learning placement with less personal anxiety and more confidence in their role during the placement.

Methodology

Final year students (n = 47) were randomly allocated to one of 17 RACFs on the NSW, Central Coast, Australia. All students were then randomly allocated to a two‐group study with the active group assigned to view the DVD prior to their placement. Students who viewed the DVD were asked not to discuss the content with students who were assigned to the control group. Post‐placement focus groups were organized, recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were collated, analysed and unitized into emergent themes. Representative quotes are presented in the results. The study was informed by 4 years of previous quantitative and qualitative process evaluation of the RACF programme.

Results

Focus group discussions identified that those students who had seen the DVD reported a shorter timeframe to successfully transition from the classroom to the RACF and stated that the DVD provided them with a realistic expectation of the RACF environment and their role in the placement experience.

Conclusion

The orientation DVD reduced student anxiety and improved student confidence in their role during the placement by providing a realistic orientation of the RACF environment.
The efficacy of 0.12% chlorhexidine versus 0.12% chlorhexidine plus hyaluronic acid mouthwash on healing of submerged single implant insertion areas: a short‐term randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Genovesi A , Barone A , Toti P , Covani U
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The study was performed to evaluate the incidence of post‐surgical adverse events at submerged implant sites as well as the antiplaque, antigingivitis and antistaining effects in the entire dentition of patients treated with two mouthwashes.

Methods

The present randomized controlled clinical study considered 40 patients subjected to dental implant treatment. Two 0.12% chlorhexidine mouthwashes were compared for 15 days: one with 0.1% hyaluronic acid (CHX⊗HYL group) and one without it (CHX group). Surgical outcome variables, and plaque, gingival, and staining indexes were recorded.

Results

Significant differences were found between the two rinses regarding the presence of oedema within 2 days after surgery (20% for the CHX⊗HYL group and 78% for the CHX group). No other significant differences were recorded between the two mouthwashes. No intergroup differences in plaque, staining and gingivitis indexes were registered. The intragroup analysis revealed that for the plaque and gingival indexes, the differences between the baseline values (before surgery) and those at 15 days were all found to be significant just for CHX⊗HYL rinse, with final values ranging from 0.18 to 0.23 for the plaque index and from 0.06 to 0.07 for the gingival index. The staining index increased for both mouthwash types with significant results (with final value of 0.19 and 0.31 for CHX⊗HYL and CHX groups, respectively).

Conclusions

In the sites of patients subjected to dental implant placement, an additional anti‐oedematigenous effect in early healing seemed to be disclosed for 0.12% CHX⊗HYL mouthwash. Regarding antiplaque and antigingivitis activities, HYL seemed to be ineffective.
E3 ubiquitin ligases Pellinos as regulators of pattern recognition receptor signaling and immune responses
Authors: Medvedev Andrei E. , Murphy Michael , Zhou Hao , Li Xiaoxia
Published: June 2015

Pellinos are a family of E3 ubiquitin ligases discovered for their role in catalyzing K63‐linked polyubiquitination of Pelle, an interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) receptor‐associated kinase homolog in the Drosophila Toll pathway. Subsequent studies have revealed the central and non‐redundant roles of mammalian Pellino‐1, Pellino‐2, and Pelino‐3 in signaling pathways emanating from IL‐1 receptors, Toll‐like receptors, NOD‐like receptors, T‐ and B‐cell receptors. While Pellinos ability to interact with many signaling intermediates suggested their scaffolding roles, recent findings in mice expressing ligase‐inactive Pellinos demonstrated the importance of Pellino ubiquitin ligase activity. Cell‐specific functions of Pellinos have emerged, e.g. Pellino‐1 being a negative regulator in T lymphocytes and a positive regulator in myeloid cells, and details of molecular regulation of receptor signaling by various members of the Pellino family have been revealed. In this review, we summarize current information about Pellino‐mediated regulation of signaling by pattern recognition receptors, T‐cell and B‐cell receptors and tumor necrosis factor receptors, and discuss Pellinos roles in sepsis and infectious diseases, as well as in autoimmune, inflammatory, and allergic disorders. We also provide our perspective on the potential of targeting Pellinos with peptide‐ or small molecule‐based drug compounds as a new therapeutic approach for septic shock and autoimmune pathologies.
Tumor necrosis factor receptor‐ associated factor 6 (TRAF6) regulation of development, function, and homeostasis of the immune system
Authors: Walsh Matthew C. , Lee JangEun , Choi Yongwon
Published: June 2015

Tumor necrosis factor receptor (TNFR)‐associated factor 6 (TRAF6) is an adapter protein that mediates a wide array of protein–protein interactions via its TRAF domain and a RING finger domain that possesses non‐conventional E3 ubiquitin ligase activity. First identified nearly two decades ago as a mediator of interleukin‐1 receptor (IL‐1R)‐mediated activation of NFκB, TRAF6 has since been identified as an actor downstream of multiple receptor families with immunoregulatory functions, including members of the TNFR superfamily, the Toll‐like receptor (TLR) family, tumor growth factor‐β receptors (TGFβR), and T‐cell receptor (TCR). In addition to NFκB, TRAF6 may also direct activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK), phosphoinositide 3‐kinase (PI3K), and interferon regulatory factor pathways. In the context of the immune system, TRAF6‐mediated signals have proven critical for the development, homeostasis, and/or activation of B cells, T cells, and myeloid cells, including macrophages, dendritic cells, and osteoclasts, as well as for organogenesis of thymic and secondary lymphoid tissues. In multiple cellular contexts, TRAF6 function is essential not only for proper activation of the immune system but also for maintaining immune tolerance, and more recent work has begun to identify mechanisms of contextual specificity for TRAF6, involving both regulatory protein interactions, and messenger RNA regulation by microRNAs.
The multifaceted role of the E3 ubiquitin ligase HOIL‐1: beyond linear ubiquitination
Authors: Elton Lynn , Carpentier Isabelle , Verhelst Kelly , Staal Jens , Beyaert Rudi
Published: June 2015

Ubiquitination controls and fine‐tunes many signaling processes driving immunity, inflammation, and cancer. The E3 ubiquitin ligase HOIL‐1 (heme‐oxidized IRP2 ubiquitin ligase‐1) is increasingly implicated in different signaling pathways and plays a vital role in immune regulation. HOIL‐1 co operates with the E3 ubiquitin ligase HOIP (HOIL‐1 interacting protein) to modify specific nuclear factor‐κB (NF‐κB) signaling proteins with linear M1‐linked polyubiquitin chains. In addition, through its ability to also add K48‐linked polyubiquitin chains to specific substrates, HOIL‐1 has been linked with antiviral signaling, iron and xenobiotic metabolism, cell death, and cancer. HOIL‐1 deficiency in humans leads to myopathy, amylopectinosis, auto‐inflammation, and immunodeficiency associated with an increased frequency of bacterial infections. HOIL‐1‐deficient mice exhibit amylopectin‐like deposits in the myocardium, pathogen‐specific immunodeficiency, but minimal signs of hyper‐inflammation. This review summarizes current knowledge on the mechanism of action of HOIL‐1 and highlights recent advances regarding its role in health and disease.
Adaptive Estimation of a Conditional Density
Authors: Bott Ann‐Kathrin , Kohler Michael
Published: June 2015

The authors consider the problem of estimating a conditional density by a conditional kernel density estimate when the error associated with the estimate is measured by theL1‐norm. On the basis of the combinatorial method of Devroye and Lugosi (), they propose a method for selecting the bandwidths adaptively and for providing a theoretical justification of the approach. They use simulated data to illustrate the finite‐sample performance of their estimator.
Motivation is a crucial factor for adherence to a healthy lifestyle among people with coronary heart disease after percutaneous coronary intervention
Authors: Kähkönen Outi , Kankkunen Päivi , Saaranen Terhi , Miettinen Heikki , Kyngäs Helvi , Lamidi Marja‐Leena
Published: June 2015

Aim

To test the Theory of Adherence of People with Chronic Disease with regard to adherence to treatment among patients with coronary heart disease after a percutaneous coronary intervention.

Background

Increased knowledge of the concept of adherence is needed for the development of nursing interventions and nursing guidelines for patients with coronary heart disease.

Design

A cross‐sectional, multi‐centre study.

Methods

This study was conducted from February–December 2013 with 416 patients with coronary heart disease 4 months after undergoing a percutaneous coronary intervention. A self‐reported questionnaire was used to assess their adherence to treatment. Data were analysed using structural equation modelling.

Results

The theory explained 45% of the adherence to a healthy lifestyle and 7% of the adherence to medication. Structural equation modelling confirmed that motivation and results of care had the highest association with adherence to a healthy lifestyle. Responsibility was associated with adherence to medication. Support from next of kin, support from nurses and physicians, and motivation, co‐operation, fear of complications and a sense of normality were associated with adherence.

Conclusion

Patients who are motivated to perform self‐care and consider the results of care to be important were more likely to adhere to a healthy lifestyle. Responsible patients were more likely to adhere to their medication. It is important to account for these elements as a part of secondary prevention strategies among patients with coronary heart disease after a percutaneous coronary intervention.
Experimental manipulation of food availability leads to short‐term intra‐clutch adjustment in egg mass but not in yolk androgen or thyroid hormones
Authors: Ruuskanen Suvi , Darras Veerle M. , de Vries Bonnie , Visser Marcel E. , Groothuis Ton G. G.
Published: June 2015

In birds, mothers can affect their offspring's phenotype and thereby survival via egg composition. It is not well known to what extent and time‐scales environmental variation in resource availability, either via resource constrains or adaptive adjustment to predicted rearing conditions, influences maternal effects. We experimentally studied whether egg and yolk mass and yolk hormone levels respond to short‐term changes in food availability during laying in wild great titsParus major. Our treatment groups were: 1) food supplementation (mealworms) from the 1st until the last egg; 2) food supplementation from the 1st until the 5th egg, where the effect of cessation of the supplementary food treatment could also be studied; 3) no food supplementation (controls). We analysed both nutritional resources (egg, yolk and albumen mass), and the important developmental signals, yolk androgens (testosterone and androstenedione), and for the first time in a wild population, yolk thyroid hormones (thyroxine and 3,5,3′‐triiodothyronine). Egg mass is a costly resource for females, androgens most likely non‐costly signals, whereas thyroid hormones may be costly signals, requiring environmental iodine. In the food supplemented group egg, yolk and albumen mass increased rapidly relative to controls and when food supplementation was halted, egg and albumen mass decreased, indicating rapid responses to resource availability. Yolk androgen and thyroid hormone levels were not affected by food supplementation during laying. Thyroxine showed an increase over the laying sequence and its biological meaning needs further study. The rapid changes in egg mass to variation in within‐clutch food availability suggest energetic/protein/nutrient constrains on egg formation. The lack of a response in yolk hormones suggest that perhaps in this species the short‐term changes in resource availability during egg laying do not predict offspring rearing conditions, or (for thyroid hormones) do not cause systemic changes in circulating hormones, and hence do not affect maternal signaling.
Long‐Term Outcome of Patients With Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: OZAYDIN MEHMET , MOAZZAMI KASRA , KALANTARIAN SHADI , LEE HANG , MANSOUR MOUSSA , RUSKIN JEREMY N.
Published: June 2015

Outcome of Idiopathic Ventricular Fibrillation

Background

The long‐term outcome of the patients with idiopathic ventricular fibrillation (IVF) is not well known.

Methods and Results

Relevant studies published through May 21, 2014 were searched and identified in the MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and EMBASE databases and a hand search of article references was also performed. Random‐effect models were used for pooling proportions of mortality and recurrent events.

Twenty‐three studies were included with a total of 639 patients (449 males) with a mean age ranging from 33 to 51 years. Eighty percent of patients had received ICD implantation. Over an average of 5.3 years follow‐up, 167 patients (31%) experienced a recurrence of ventricular arrhythmic events (proportion, 0.29 [95% CI 0.21–0.38]). Moreover, 17 patients (3.1%) died among all studies (proportion, 0.01 [95% CI 0.00–0.04]). No association was found between the induction of sustained ventricular tachycardia or ventricular fibrillation at baseline electrophysiological study and risk of recurrent ventricular arrhythmias (risk difference: 0.12 [95% CI, 0.08–0.32]).

Conclusions

In patients with IVF, this meta‐analysis revealed an estimated recurrent event rate of 31% and a pooled mortality rate of 3.1% during an average of 5 years follow‐up. The results of baseline electrophysiological studies are not predictive of future ventricular arrhythmias.
A Randomized Trial of Creatine‐kinase Leak After Rosuvastatin in Elective Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (CLEAR‐PCI)
Authors: Martins Kleber B.A. , Mattos Luiz A.P. , Sousa Amanda G.M.R. , Sousa J.Eduardo M.R. , Abzaid Alexandre , Feres Fausto , de Ribamar José C. , Staico Rodolfo , Costa Ricardo A. , Chaves Aurea J.
Published: June 2015

Objectives

To determine the impact of percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) performed at the same time of the peak concentration of rosuvastatin to reduce periprocedural myocardial infarction (PMI).

Background

Prior studies suggest that a high dose of statin before PCI reduce periprocedural myocardial infarction. However, there is no information regarding the elective PCI performed at the time of the peak of statin concentration to reduce PMI.

Methods

From 2001 to 2013, at a single center in Brazil we enrolled 544 patients who underwent elective PCI and after exclusions for baseline biases in clinical and angiographic characteristics, yielding 528 patients, we prospectively randomly assigned them to either a high loading dose of Rosuvastatin before PCI (n = 264) or standard treatment (n = 264). After exclusions for biases in procedural characteristics a total of 487 patients underwent to end points analysis. The primary outcome was the incidence of MB fraction of creatine kinase (CK‐MB) greater than three times the upper limit of normal.

Results

The primary end point occurred in 7.6% in the rosuvastatin and 4.8% in the control group (P = 0.200). There was a higher incidence in elevation of CK‐MB than normal baseline in the rosuvastatin (67.1% vs 59.2%, P = 0.701). There was no difference in major adverse event (0% in the rosuvastatin group vs 0.8% in control).
Mental health consumers' perceptions of quality of life and mental health care
Authors: Williams Emily , Sands Natisha , Elsom Stephen , Prematunga Roshani Kanchana
Published: June 2015

Research spanning the past decade consistently reports that people with severe mental illnesses experience lower quality of life than the general population, however, little is known about what “quality of life” means to consumers, or how quality of life can be promoted in mental health care. This study measured the Quality of Life of mental health consumers receiving care from a Mental Health Nurse Incentive Program, and examined consumer perceptions of quality of life. The study used an exploratory design incorporating the WHOQOL‐brèf survey and four additional qualitative questions for data collection. Data were analysed using descriptive and correlational statistics. Participants (n = 49) reported lower quality of life scores on all four domains of the WHOQOL‐brèf and lower overall ratings for “quality of life” than the general population. Having basic needs met, good relationships with family and friends, regular support, and improved social connectedness were identified by consumers as important to their quality of life.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi affect plant community structure under various nutrient conditions and stabilize the community productivity
Authors: Yang Gaowen , Yang Xin , Zhang Wenjun , Wei Yuqi , Ge Ge , Lu Wenjie , Sun Juanjuan , Liu Nan , Kan Haiming , Shen Yue , Zhang Yingjun
Published: June 2015

Soil biota could have a significant impact on plant productivity and diversity through benefiting plants and mediating plant–plant interaction. However, it is poorly understood how soil biotic factors interaction with abiotic environments affect plant community diversity and composition. Here, we investigate the community‐level consequences of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) interactions with multiple nutrients and their ecological stoichiometry. We conducted a greenhouse experiment manipulating nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) to create soil nutrient availability and N:P gradients for microcosm communities with and without AMF. We found that AMF suppressed plant diversity at low P levels, whereas it did not alter the diversity at high P levels because of trade‐offs in the abundance of the dominant and subordinate species. AMF reduced plant diversity at the intermediate N:P ratios, while AMF did not affect the diversity at low and high N:P ratios. P addition decreased the mycorrhizal contribution to community productivity, whereas N addition reduced the negative effects of AMF on productivity at high P levels. AMF decreased community productivity at low N:P ratios but increased it at high N:P ratios. AMF increased the stoichiometric homoeostasis of plant communities, which was positively correlated with the stability of productivity under variations in soil N:P ratios. Our study demonstrates that both resource availability and stoichiometry influence the effect of AMF on plant community productivity and diversity and suggests that AMF may increase the stability of plant communities under variations in the soil nutrients by increasing the stoichiometric homoeostasis of the plant community.
Aberration compensation between anterior and posterior corneal surfaces after Small incision lenticule extraction and Femtosecond laser‐assisted laser in‐situ keratomileusis
Authors: Li Xiaojing , Wang Yan , Dou Rui
Published: June 2015

Purpose

To investigate the aberration compensation between anterior and posterior corneal surfaces after SMILE and FS‐LASIK.

Methods

Fifty‐five subjects (55 eyes) undergoing SMILE and 51 subjects (51 eyes) undergoing FS‐LASIK were enrolled in this study. Wavefront aberrations of anterior and posterior corneal surfaces and the whole cornea at 6 mm in diameter were measured using a Scheimpflug Camera preoperatively and one, three and 6 months postoperatively. The compensation factor (CF), where CF = 1 − (aberration of the whole cornea/aberration of anterior corneal surface), was calculated.

Results

Spherical aberration of the posterior surface and the whole cornea remained stable after SMILE. However, spherical aberration of posterior surface increased significantly at 6 months in the FS‐LASIK group. The total higher‐order aberration (tHOA) of the anterior surface and the whole cornea was lower at 6 months than at one and 3 months (p = 0.001 and 0.001, respectively) in the FS‐LASIK group. Meanwhile, in the SMILE group, no significant difference in tHOA was found between various postoperative time points. There were significant decreases in the CF of tHOA compared with preoperative values in both groups. The CF of spherical aberration reduced significantly in both groups at 3 and 6 mm in diameter one, three and 6 months postoperatively. Significant decreases in the CF of vertical coma were found at three and 6 months postoperatively in the FS‐LASIK group compared with preoperative values at 6 mm in diameter (p = 0.021 and 0.008, respectively). The change in CF (ΔCF) of spherical aberration was smaller in the SMILE group than in the FS‐LASIK group at one and 3 months postoperatively (p = 0.003 and p < 0.0001, respectively). The ΔCF of spherical aberration was significantly lower in moderately myopic subjects than in subjects with high myopia at 1 month in the SMILE group (p = 0.041) and at one, three and 6 months in the FS‐LASIK group (p = 0.014, 0.020, and 0.004, respectively).

Conclusions

The posterior corneal surface plays an important role in compensating for spherical aberration of the anterior corneal surface. The compensation mechanisms of spherical aberration and higher‐order aberration between anterior and posterior corneal surfaces were disrupted by the SMILE and the FS‐LASIK procedures. The change in the CF of spherical aberration was smaller in the SMILE group compared with the FS‐LASIK group, especially in subjects with high myopia.
Challenging diagnosis and treatment of HIT in child with ventricular assistance device
Authors: Weintraub Lauren , Driscoll Catherine , Aydin Scott , Lamour Jaqueline M. , Weinstein Sam , Manwani Deepa
Published: June 2015

HIT presents the clinician with unique diagnostic challenges, especially in the pediatric population. The HIT clinical sequelae of thrombocytopenia and thrombosis are secondary to the activation of platelets by heparin–antibody complexes. Diagnosis involves clinical observations and confirmatory laboratory testing using antibody detection and the functional SRA. As we describe in the following case of a six‐yr‐old female, the SRA may be difficult to interpret in the case of high‐titer antibodies and illustrates the need for repeat testing in cases of high clinical suspicion.
I Only Have Eyes for You: Does Implicit Social Pressure Increase Voter Turnout?
Authors: Matland Richard E. , Murray Gregg R.
Published: June 2015

Get‐out‐the‐vote mailers using explicit social pressure consistently increase electoral turnout; however, they often generate a negative reaction or backlash. One approach to increase turnout, yet alleviate backlash, may be to use implicit social pressure. An implicit social pressure technique that has shown promise is to display a set of eyes. Researchers contend eyes generate a feeling of being watched, which cues subjects to act in more prosocial ways to demonstrate compliance with social norms. Several studies support this argument, including two voter mobilization studies. The technique has not been widely tested, however, in the political context. In five randomized field experiments, we test the impact on turnout of mobilization mailers using eye displays. We extend previous research by testing for differences in effects between male and female eyes and across political cultures. The effects are substantively and statistically weak at best and inconsistent with previous findings.
ERP evidence for spatial attention being directed away from disgusting locations
Authors: Zimmer Ulrike , Keppel Marie‐Theres , Poglitsch Christian , Ischebeck Anja
Published: June 2015

When we change sidewalks because we see vomit or dog feces, we are avoiding disgusting stimuli. However, it is unclear how we shift spatial attention itself away from disgusting stimuli. In the present study, we used a multisensory spatial‐cuing paradigm as a tool to test if a disgusting sound is avoided by redirecting visual attention to the opposite side. Our results show that behavioral responses as well as the P3 component indicated an inverse validity effect when cued by disgust. Validity differences on the P3 were increased ipsilaterally instead of contralaterally over visual electrode sites. In contrast, the N1 component, time‐locked to sound cues, indicated the typical contralateral attentional arousal effect. Thus, disgusting sound cues first attract attention toward their location and later, after the processing of their emotional content, direct spatial attention away from the location of their origin to the opposite location.
Contested Elections in Increasingly Commercialized Media. A Diachronic Analysis of Executive and Parliamentary Election News Coverage in Switzerland
Authors: Udris Linards , Lucht Jens , Schneider Jörg
Published: June 2015

In view of the sinking level of consensus and the allegedly growing ‘presidentialization’ of politics in Switzerland, this paper asks whether this process can be explained by the ‘mediatization of politics’, enforced by the commercialization of the media. Taking a comparative approach in analyzing news coverage about executive and parliamentary elections from 1960 to 2011 in three different media types, it shows an increasing focus on executive elections, triggered not only by increasing political conflict but also by commercialized ‘media logic’. Attention to the executive is highest in the commercialized tabloid paper and lowest in the less commercialized quality paper, which only much later starts to focus on these elections. Contested executive elections have become attractive for commercialized media to focus on prominent figures and dramatize conflicts. This news reporting about politics arguably gives incentives for political actors to contest executive elections, thus intensifying the transformation of the political system.
Assessment of Workforce Demands to Shape GIS&T Education
Authors: Wallentin Gudrun , Hofer Barbara , Traun Christoph
Published: June 2015

The Body of Knowledge for Geographic Information Science and Technology (GIS&T BoK) has been the main reference document for curriculum design in the geospatial domain. Today, the BoK is supposed to have fallen short in adequately covering the domain due to significant conceptual and technological advances in the field. Thus, several initiatives around the globe work towards an update of the GIS&T BoK. This research assesses the demands of today's GIS&T workforce across Europe to contribute to the effort of a demand‐oriented update. We assessed the workforce demand by means of a Europe‐wide distributed online questionnaire and complementary expert interviews. The results show that the BoK still is a comprehensive reference base for the geospatial domain that is generally deemed relevant by the European workforce. However, workforce demands point to three main topics that need to be addressed by an update of the BoK: (1) the shift from primary data acquisition to the handling of highly abundant spatial data; (2) a lack of competences in programming and application development; and (3) a poor coverage of web‐related aspects. Future research should complement workforce demands with a review of the scientific literature to identify additional shortcomings related to conceptual advances.
Neuromodulation of the luteal regression: presence of progesterone receptors in coeliac ganglion
Authors: Ghersa Federica , Burdisso Juan , Vallcaneras Sandra S. , Fuentes Federico , de la Vega Magalí , Delgado Silvia M. , Telleria Carlos M. , Casais Marilina
Published: June 2015

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

The processes involved in luteal involution have not yet been clarified and, in general, have been studied only from a hormonal point of view. We investigated whether progesterone, from the coeliac ganglion through the superior ovarian nerve, is able to modify the luteal regression of late pregnancy in the rat.

What is the main finding and its importance?

We showed that the luteal regression might be reversed by the neural effect of progesterone and demonstrated the presence of its receptors in the coeliac ganglion. This suggests that the peripheral neural pathway, through neuron–hormone interaction, represents an additional mechanism to control luteal function in addition to the classical endocrine regulation.

The corpus luteum (CL) is a transitory endocrine gland that produces progesterone (P). At the end of its useful life, it suffers a process of functional and structural regression until its complete disappearance from the ovary. To investigate whether P is able to regulate the process of luteal regression through the peripheral neural pathway, we used the coeliac ganglion (CG)–superior ovarian nerve–ovary system from rats on day 21 of pregnancy. We stimulated the CG with P and analysed the functional regression through ovarian P release measured by radioimmunoassay, expression by RT‐PCR and activity of luteal 3β‐ and 20α‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (anabolic and catabolic P enzymes, respectively). The luteal structural regression was evaluated through a study of apoptosis measured by TUNEL assay and the expression of apoptotic factors, such as Bcl‐2, Bax, Fas and Fas ligand (FasL) by RT‐PCR. To explore whether the effects mediated by P on the CL may be associated with P receptors, their presence in the CG was investigated by immunohistochemistry. In the group stimulated with P in the CG, the ovarian P release and the 3β‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase activity increased, whereas the expression and activity of 20α‐hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase decreased. In addition, a decrease in the number of apoptotic nuclei and a decrease of the expression of FasL were observed. We demonstrated the presence of P receptors in the CG. Overall, our results suggest that the regression of the CL of late pregnancy may be reprogrammed through the peripheral neural pathway, and this effect might be mediated by P bound to its receptor in the CG.
The Contribution of Trunk Axial Kinematics to Poststrike Ball Velocity During Maximal Instep Soccer Kicking
Authors: Fullenkamp Adam M. , Campbell Brian M. , Laurent C. Matthew , Lane Amanda Paige
Published: June 2015

To date, biomechanical analyses of soccer kicking have focused predominantly on lower-extremity motions, with little emphasis on the trunk and upper body. The purpose of this study was to evaluate differences in trunk axial kinematics between novice (n = 10) and skilled (n = 10) participants, as well as to establish the relationship of trunk axial motion and sagittal plane thigh rotation to poststrike ball velocity. Three-dimensional body segmental motion data were captured using high-resolution motion analysis (120 Hz) while each participant completed 5 maximal instep soccer-style kicks. The results demonstrate that skilled participants use 53% greater axial trunk range of motion compared with novice participants (P < .01), as well as 62% greater peak trunk rotation velocity (P < .01). The results also show a moderate, positive correlation of peak trunk rotation velocity with poststrike ball velocity (r = .57; P < .01), and peak hip flexion velocity with poststrike ball velocity (r = .63; P < .01). The current study highlights the potential for trunk rotation-specific training to improve maximum instep kick velocity in developing soccer athletes.
Three-Dimensional Rotations of the Scapula During Arm Abduction: Evaluation of the Acromion Marker Cluster Method in Comparison With a Model-Based Approach Using Biplanar Radiograph Images
Authors: Duprey Sonia , Billuart Fabien , Sah Sungjin , Ohl Xavier , Robert Thomas , Skalli Wafa , Wang Xuguang
Published: June 2015

Noninvasive methods enabling measurement of shoulder bone positions are paramount in clinical and ergonomics applications. In this study, the acromion marker cluster (AMC) method is assessed in comparison with a model-based approach allowing scapula tracking from low-dose biplanar radiograph images. Six healthy male subjects participated in this study. Data acquisition was performed for 6 arm abduction positions (0°, 45°, 90°, 120°, 150°, 180°). Scapula rotations were calculated using the coordinate systems and angle sequence was defined by the ISB. The comparison analysis was based on root mean square error (RMSE) calculation and nonparametric statistical tests. RMSE remained under 8° for 0° to 90° arm abduction and under 13.5° for 0° to 180° abduction; no significant differences were found between the 2 methods. Compared with previous works, an improved accuracy of the AMC approach at high arm abduction positions was obtained. This could be explained by the different sources of data used as the “gold standard.”
Observing the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation yields a decade of inevitable surprises
Authors: Srokosz M. A. , Bryden H. L.
Published: June 2015

On the success (or not) of climate models

Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) transports huge amounts of heat from low to high latitudes and has a major influence on climate. Climate models have predicted that global warming will cause the AMOC to slow, but concrete evidence of such a slowdown has been scarce. Srokosz and Bryden review a decade of observations of the AMOC that reveal an unexpected amount of variability over time scales from seasonal to decadal, as well as a general weakening over this time.

Science
, this issue
10.1126/science.1255575
Response to Comment on “Missing gas-phase source of HONO inferred from Zeppelin measurements in the troposphere”
Authors: Li Xin , Rohrer Franz , Hofzumahaus Andreas , Brauers Theo , Häseler Rolf , Bohn Birger , Broch Sebastian , Fuchs Hendrik , Gomm Sebastian , Holland Frank , Jäger Julia , Kaiser Jennifer , Keutsch Frank N. , Lohse Insa , Lu Keding , Tillmann Ralf , Wegener Robert , Wolfe Glenn M. , Mentel Thomas F. , Kiendler-Scharr Astrid , Wahner Andreas
Published: June 2015

Ye
et al
. have determined a maximum nitrous acid (HONO) yield of 3% for the reaction HO
2
·H
2
O + NO
2
, which is much lower than the yield used in our work. This finding, however, does not affect our main result that HONO in the investigated Po Valley region is mainly from a gas-phase source that consumes nitrogen oxides.
Structural basis for nucleotide exchange in heterotrimeric G proteins
Authors: Dror Ron O. , Mildorf Thomas J. , Hilger Daniel , Manglik Aashish , Borhani David W. , Arlow Daniel H. , Philippsen Ansgar , Villanueva Nicolas , Yang Zhongyu , Lerch Michael T. , Hubbell Wayne L. , Kobilka Brian K. , Sunahara Roger K. , Shaw David E.
Published: June 2015

How a receptor transmits a signal

G protein–coupled receptors (GPCRs) transmit diverse external signals into the cell. When activated by an outside stimulus, they bind to a G protein inside the cell and accelerate exchange of a bound guanosine diphosphate (GDP) nucleotide for guanosine triphosphate, which initiates intercellular signaling. Dror
et al.
used atomic-level molecular dynamics simulations to show how GPCRs enhance GDP release. The G protein is dynamic and frequently adopts a conformation that exposes GDP even without the receptor bound. GPCR binding to this conformation favors an additional structural rearrangement that favors GDP release. The authors confirmed these predictions experimentally using double electron-electron resonance spectroscopy.

Science
, this issue p.
1361
Are you watering your lawn?
Authors: Hogue Terri S. , Pincetl Stephanie
Published: June 2015

High-resolution data may help to devise effective water conservation strategies in urban areas around the world
When the hunter becomes the hunted
Authors: Woodroffe Rosie , Redpath Stephen M.
Published: June 2015

Effective predator management relies on social acceptability as well as scientific evidence
Cortical information flow during flexible sensorimotor decisions
Authors: Siegel Markus , Buschman Timothy J. , Miller Earl K.
Published: June 2015

Signal flow during sensorimotor choices

Little is known about the flow of task signals across the brain. Siegel
et al.
simultaneously recorded from multiple units in the sensory, parietal, prefrontal, and motor cortex while monkeys were cued to perform one among two possible simple tasks. The proportion of neurons coding for stimuli, cues, tasks, and choices, and their response latency, varied across regions. Parietal and prefrontal brain regions encoded task information and choices with the same latency. Interestingly, all brain areas encoded all types of information. However, they differed functionally according to the proportions of neurons and their response latency.

Science
, this issue p.
1352
High-rate injection is associated with the increase in U.S. mid-continent seismicity
Authors: Weingarten M. , Ge S. , Godt J. W. , Bekins B. A. , Rubinstein J. L.
Published: June 2015

Making quakes depends on injection rates

Wastewater injection wells induce earthquakes that garner much attention, especially in tectonically inactive regions. Weingarten
et al.
combined information from public injection-well databases from the eastern and central United States with the best earthquake catalog available over the past 30 years. The rate of fluid injection into a well appeared to be the most likely decisive triggering factor in regions prone to induced earthquakes. Along these lines, Walsh III and Zoback found a clear correlation between areas in Oklahoma where waste saltwater is being injected on a large scale and areas experiencing increased earthquake activity.

Science
, this issue p.
1336
;
Sci. Adv.
10.1126/sciadv.1500195 (2015).
An ESCRT to seal the envelope
Authors: Sundquist Wesley I. , Ullman Katharine S.
Published: June 2015

Cellular machinery that remodels different lipid bilayers also closes the nuclear membrane