bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perennial grasslands enhance biodiversity and multiple ecosystem services in bioenergy landscapes
Authors: Werling Ben P. , Dickson Timothy L. , Isaacs Rufus , Gaines Hannah , Gratton Claudio , Gross Katherine L. , Liere Heidi , Malmstrom Carolyn M. , Meehan Timothy D. , Ruan Leilei , Robertson Bruce A. , Robertson G. Philip , Schmidt Thomas M. , Schrotenboer Abbie C. , Teal Tracy K. , Wilson Julianna K. , Landis Douglas A.
Published: January 2014

Significance

Science-based polices are needed to inform sustainable bioenergy landscape design. Our key finding is that the linkage between biodiversity and ecosystem services is dependent not only on the choice of bioenergy crop but also on its location relative to other habitats. The implication is that careful design of bioenergy landscapes has the potential to enhance multiple services in food and energy crops, leading to important synergies that have not yet informed the ongoing bioenergy debate. This study is especially timely as high commodity prices are driving conversion of marginal lands to annual crop production, reducing future flexibility.
Site-specific targeting of enterovirus capsid by functionalized monodisperse gold nanoclusters
Authors: Marjomäki Varpu , Lahtinen Tanja , Martikainen Mari , Koivisto Jaakko , Malola Sami , Salorinne Kirsi , Pettersson Mika , Häkkinen Hannu
Published: January 2014

Significance

Development of precise protocols for accurate site-specific conjugation of monodisperse inorganic nanoparticles to large biomolecules and bionanoparticles is one of the challenges in contemporary bionanoscience and nanomedicine, providing new tools for bioimaging and tracking in biological systems. Here we report a success in labeling enteroviruses by atomically precise thiol-stabilized gold clusters with 1.5-nm metal cores that bind, via a covalent link, to cysteines that are close to the viral surface. It is shown that the infectivity of the viruses is not compromised by this labeling procedure. These advances allow for future investigations of the structure−function relations of enteroviruses and enterovirus-related virus-like particles, including their entry mechanisms into cells and uncoating in cellular endosomes.
Peptides genetically selected for NF-κB activation cooperate with oncogene Ras and model carcinogenic role of inflammation
Authors: Natarajan Venkatesh , Komarov Andrei P. , Ippolito Thomas , Bonneau Kyle , Chenchik Alex A. , Gudkov Andrei V.
Published: January 2014

Significance

Despite general acceptance of the link between chronic inflammation and cancer, the precise molecular mechanisms underlying the cancer-promoting effects of inflammation remain undefined. Inducible transcription factor NF-κB is the key regulator of inflammation, which is commonly deregulated in cancer cells to become constitutively active. Whether this deregulation contributes to malignant transformation was the main question addressed in this study. We isolated a series of genetic elements encoding artificial intracellular proteins capable of constitutive activation of NF-κB, named NF-κB–activating selectable peptides (NASPs), and demonstrated that all of them had carcinogenic activity in conventional cellular models. Specifically, NASPs made normal rodent cells susceptible to malignant transformation by oncogene Ras, which cannot do it on its own. This result defines chronically active NF-κB as an oncogene.
TLR8 on dendritic cells and TLR9 on B cells restrain TLR7-mediated spontaneous autoimmunity in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Desnues Benoit , Macedo Amanda Beatriz , Roussel-Queval Annie , Bonnardel Johnny , Henri Sandrine , Demaria Olivier , Alexopoulou Lena
Published: January 2014

Significance

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) that sense microbial or endogenous DNA and RNA have been well implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), a multisystem disease characterized by an autoimmune response to nuclear antigens. In mice, both TLR8 and TLR9 control TLR7-mediated lupus, but it is unknown if they have an additive effect in controlling TLR7. We demonstrate that double TLR8/9-deficient mice have increased abnormalities characteristic of SLE and that both TLR8 and TLR9 keep under control TLR7-mediated lupus, but they act on different cell types. TLR8 controls TLR7 function on dendritic cells, and TLR9 restrains TLR7 response on B cells. These TLR interactions have to be taken into account when novel therapeutic approaches are developed that target the blocking of TLRs.
ATF3 expression improves motor function in the ALS mouse model by promoting motor neuron survival and retaining muscle innervation
Authors: Seijffers Rhona , Zhang Jiangwen , Matthews Jonathan C. , Chen Adam , Tamrazian Eric , Babaniyi Olusegun , Selig Martin , Hynynen Meri , Woolf Clifford J. , Brown Robert H.
Published: January 2014

Significance

This study reports on the beneficial effects of forcing high expression of the transcription factor activating transcription factor 3 (ATF3) in ALS. ALS is a noncurable adult-onset disease that attacks motor neurons, resulting in paralysis and death. ATF3 overexpression in motor neurons in an ALS mouse model modifies gene expression and drives the neurons into a prosurvival and proregenerative state, increasing motor neuron survival and maintaining axonal connection with muscle by promoting axonal sprouting. ATF3 overexpression results in markedly improved muscle strength and function and delayed disease onset but only slightly increased lifespan. Molecular mechanisms that promote axonal sprouting could substantially improve quality of life in ALS, although additional approaches will be required to overcome progressive motor neuron deterioration.
Multiple pathways for
Plasmodium
ookinete invasion of the mosquito midgut
Authors: Vega-Rodríguez Joel , Ghosh Anil K. , Kanzok Stefan M. , Dinglasan Rhoel R. , Wang Sibao , Bongio Nicholas J. , Kalume Dario E. , Miura Kazutoyo , Long Carole A. , Pandey Akhilesh , Jacobs-Lorena Marcelo
Published: January 2014

Significance

Malaria is among the most devastating parasitic diseases. Invasion of the mosquito midgut by motile malaria ookinetes requires specific interactions between proteins of both organisms. This study reports on a novel mosquito midgut receptor [enolase-binding protein (EBP)] that is recognized by an ookinete surface ligand (enolase). We also show that
Plasmodium
ookinetes invade the mosquito midgut by at least two different pathways: one dependent on and the other independent of the EBP–enolase interaction. Furthermore, we provide evidence for a second universal midgut receptor essential for midgut invasion by both human and rodent malaria parasites. These findings may lead to the development of novel targets for transmission-blocking interventions.
The miR-17/106–p38 axis is a key regulator of the neurogenic-to-gliogenic transition in developing neural stem/progenitor cells
Authors: Naka-Kaneda Hayato , Nakamura Shiho , Igarashi Mana , Aoi Hisashi , Kanki Hiroaki , Tsuyama Jun , Tsutsumi Shuichi , Aburatani Hiroyuki , Shimazaki Takuya , Okano Hideyuki
Published: January 2014

Significance

Neural stem/progenitor cells (NSPCs) restrict their differentiation potential by developmental stage-dependent temporal specification. Thereby, specific and efficient induction of homogeneous target cell populations remains a challenge in stem cell biology. Here, we provided a potential solution by identifying the molecular machinery responsible for neurogenic-to-gliogenic transition of NSPCs, a process we termed “competence change.” We identified the microRNA-17/106–p38 axis as a critical regulator of the competence change, although epigenetic regulation seemed to be the regulatory program behind it, by our previous Coup-tf study. NSPCs sustained and restored neurogenic potential by competence regulation. Moreover, at least a part of neuron-subtype specification was regulated independent of it. Control of these multilayered regulatory programs seems promising for rigorous manipulation of cytogenesis from NSPCs.
Proteolytic cleavage of Ser52Pro variant transthyretin triggers its amyloid fibrillogenesis
Authors: Mangione P. Patrizia , Porcari Riccardo , Gillmore Julian D. , Pucci Piero , Monti Maria , Porcari Mattia , Giorgetti Sofia , Marchese Loredana , Raimondi Sara , Serpell Louise C. , Chen Wenjie , Relini Annalisa , Marcoux Julien , Clatworthy Innes R. , Taylor Graham W. , Tennent Glenys A. , Robinson Carol V. , Hawkins Philip N. , Stoppini Monica , Wood Stephen P. , Pepys Mark B. , Bellotti Vittorio
Published: January 2014

Significance

Transthyretin, a normal circulating plasma protein, is inherently amyloidogenic. It forms abnormal, insoluble, extracellular amyloid fibrils in the elderly, sometimes causing structural and functional damage leading to disease, senile amyloidosis. More than 100 different point mutations in the transthyretin gene cause earlier adult-onset, autosomal-dominant, fatal, hereditary amyloidosis. The transthyretin variant Ser52Pro is responsible for the most aggressive known clinical phenotype. Here we identify the crucial pathogenic role of specific proteolytic cleavage at residue 48 in triggering fibril formation by this variant. Genuine amyloid fibril formation in vitro is much more extensive than previously reported for wild-type transthyretin or any other transthyretin variant. Characterization of the fibrillogenic effect of this cleavage powerfully informs drug design and targeting for transthyretin amyloidosis.
TRIM38 inhibits TNFα- and IL-1β–triggered NF-κB activation by mediating lysosome-dependent degradation of TAB2/3
Authors: Hu Ming-Ming , Yang Qing , Zhang Jing , Liu Shi-Meng , Zhang Yu , Lin Heng , Huang Zhe-Fu , Wang Yan-Yi , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Zhong Bo , Shu Hong-Bing
Published: January 2014

Significance

Infection of pathogenic microbes induces the body to produce cytokines, which are mediators of inflammation. TNFα and IL-1β are two important proinflammatory cytokines that trigger a series of cellular reactions, leading to induction of downstream genes and inflammation. Understanding how the cellular reactions are triggered by the proinflammatory cytokines is important for deciphering the molecular mechanisms of inflammation. In this study, we identified a protein called TRIM38, which negatively regulates TNFα- and IL-1β–triggered cellular reactions by causing degradation of TAB2/3, two cellular components essential for TNFα- and IL-1β–triggered cellular response. This study reveals a mechanism by which cells keep the inflammatory response in check to avoid excessive harmful immune response and may provide clues on treatments of inflammation.
Weighing nanoparticles in solution at the attogram scale
Authors: Olcum Selim , Cermak Nathan , Wasserman Steven C. , Christine Kathleen S. , Atsumi Hiroshi , Payer Kris R. , Shen Wenjiang , Lee Jungchul , Belcher Angela M. , Bhatia Sangeeta N. , Manalis Scott R.
Published: January 2014

Significance

Naturally occurring and engineered nanoparticles (e.g., exosomes, viruses, protein aggregates, and self-assembled nanostructures) have size- and concentration-dependent functionality, yet existing characterization methods in solution are limited for diameters below ∼50 nm. In this study, we developed a nanomechanical resonator that can directly measure the mass of individual nanoparticles down to 10 nm with single-attogram (10
−18
g) precision, enabling access to previously difficult-to-characterize natural and synthetic nanoparticles.
TRPV4-mediated mechanotransduction regulates the metabolic response of chondrocytes to dynamic loading
Authors: O’Conor Christopher J. , Leddy Holly A. , Benefield Halei C. , Liedtke Wolfgang B. , Guilak Farshid
Published: January 2014

Significance

Physiologic joint loading plays a critical role in the maintenance of articular cartilage structure and function, whereas abnormal loading can lead to pathologic changes in joint tissues. However, the mechanisms by which mechanical loading is transduced into intracellular signals that regulate chondrocyte homeostasis are not fully understood. In this study, we show that the mechanosensitive cation channel transient receptor potential vanilloid 4 (TRPV4) plays a critical role in the physiological link between mechanical loading and chondrocyte function. Specifically, TRPV4 acts a transducer of mechanical loading to regulate cartilage extracellular matrix biosynthesis. A better understanding of the mechanisms involved in chondrocyte mechanotransduction could enable the development of novel therapies for joint diseases such as osteoarthritis.
Voltage tuning of vibrational mode energies in single-molecule junctions
Authors: Li Yajing , Doak Peter , Kronik Leeor , Neaton Jeffrey B. , Natelson Douglas
Published: January 2014

Significance

Like guitar strings, molecules have characteristic vibrational frequencies, set by the strength of chemical bonding between the atoms. In an experiment using a special antenna for light, we have found that applying an electrical voltage to a single buckyball molecule systematically lowers its vibrational frequencies, indicating that the bonds are weakened. We can explain this observation in terms of a very simple, general model in which the applied voltage slightly increases the amount of negative charge on the molecule, thus tuning the chemical bond strength. This may be generally useful in understanding and controlling the mechanical properties of molecules.
Distinct roles of the methylcytosine oxidases Tet1 and Tet2 in mouse embryonic stem cells
Authors: Huang Yun , Chavez Lukas , Chang Xing , Wang Xue , Pastor William A. , Kang Jinsuk , Zepeda-Martínez Jorge A. , Pape Utz J. , Jacobsen Steven E. , Peters Bjoern , Rao Anjana
Published: January 2014

Significance

Methylation of cytosine bases in DNA is an epigenetic modification that influences gene expression. TET (Ten-Eleven Translocation) enzymes regulate DNA methylation status and facilitate DNA demethylation by converting 5-methylcytosine (5mC) to 5-hydroxymethylcytosine (5hmC) and further oxidation products in mammalian genomes. Of the three mammalian TET proteins, Tet1 and Tet2 are the major regulators of 5hmC levels in mouse embryonic stem (ES) cells. We show that Tet1 and Tet2 have distinct roles in mouse ES cells: Tet1 primarily regulates 5hmC levels at gene promoters and transcription start sites, whereas Tet2 mainly regulates 5hmC levels in gene bodies and exon boundaries of highly-expressed genes and exons respectively. Our results suggest a complex interplay between the functions of Tet1 and Tet2 proteins in mESC.
RIG-I–like receptor LGP2 protects tumor cells from ionizing radiation
Authors: Widau Ryan C. , Parekh Akash D. , Ranck Mark C. , Golden Daniel W. , Kumar Kiran A. , Sood Ravi F. , Pitroda Sean P. , Liao Zhengkai , Huang Xiaona , Darga Thomas E. , Xu David , Huang Lei , Andrade Jorge , Roizman Bernard , Weichselbaum Ralph R. , Khodarev Nikolai N.
Published: January 2014

Significance

An undesirable outcome of radiotherapy (ionizing radiation, IR) of cancer is the emergence of radioresistant cells. We report that Laboratory of Genetics and Physiology 2 (LGP2), a resident RIG-I (retinoic acid inducible gene I)–like receptor protein, can induce radioresistance. IR induces interferon and stimulates accumulation of LGP2. In turn, LGP2 shuts off the synthesis of interferon and blocks its cytotoxic effects. Ectopic expression of LGP2 enhances resistance to IR, whereas depletion enhances cytotoxic effects of IR. Here we show that LGP2 is associated with radioresistance in numerous diverse cancer cell lines. Examination of available databases links expression of LGP2 with poor prognosis in cancer patients.
Sodium channel selectivity and conduction: Prokaryotes have devised their own molecular strategy
Authors: Finol-Urdaneta Rocio K. , Wang Yibo , Al-Sabi Ahmed , Zhao Chunfeng , Noskov Sergei Y. , French Robert J.
Published: January 2014

Striking structural differences between voltage-gated sodium (Nav) channels from prokaryotes (homotetramers) and eukaryotes (asymmetric, four-domain proteins) suggest the likelihood of different molecular mechanisms for common functions. For these two channel families, our data show similar selectivity sequences among alkali cations (relative permeability, Pion/PNa) and asymmetric, bi-ionic reversal potentials when the Na/K gradient is reversed. We performed coordinated experimental and computational studies, respectively, on the prokaryotic Nav channels NaChBac and NavAb. NaChBac shows an “anomalous,” nonmonotonic mole-fraction dependence in the presence of certain sodium–potassium mixtures; to our knowledge, no comparable observation has been reported for eukaryotic Nav channels. NaChBac’s preferential selectivity for sodium is reduced either by partial titration of its highly charged selectivity filter, when extracellular pH is lowered from 7.4 to 5.8, or by perturbation—likely steric—associated with a nominally electro-neutral substitution in the selectivity filter (E191D). Although no single molecular feature or energetic parameter appears to dominate, our atomistic simulations, based on the published NavAb crystal structure, revealed factors that may contribute to the normally observed selectivity for Na over K. These include: (a) a thermodynamic penalty to exchange one K+ for one Na+ in the wild-type (WT) channel, increasing the relative likelihood of Na+ occupying the binding site; (b) a small tendency toward weaker ion binding to the selectivity filter in Na–K mixtures, consistent with the higher conductance observed with both sodium and potassium present; and (c) integrated 1-D potentials of mean force for sodium or potassium movement that show less separation for the less selective E/D mutant than for WT. Overall, tight binding of a single favored ion to the selectivity filter, together with crucial inter-ion interactions within the pore, suggests that prokaryotic Nav channels use a selective strategy more akin to those of eukaryotic calcium and potassium channels than that of eukaryotic Nav channels.
Social Networks and New Product Choice
Authors: Richards Timothy J. , Hamilton Stephen F. , Allender William J.
Published: January 2014

To successfully market new products in a social network it is essential to identify influential individuals whose product recommendations influence the consumption choices of their peers. In this study, we use spatial econometric methods to determine how individuals revise their preferences for product attributes when exposed to product recommendations from peers, and how different individuals who vary in their degree of network connectedness exert influence on the product choices of others. We find evidence that consumers look to others for guidance from peers in their preference for subjective, taste‐specific parameters, but tend not to respond to peer price choices. Our spatial methods allow us to empirically determine the influence exerted by individual members on the consumption choices of other members of the social network. We find that connected members of the social network are not always the most influential in revising the consumption choices of others. Our estimates reveal that network proximity explains only 8.8% of influence.
PanGP: A tool for quickly analyzing bacterial pan-genome profile
Authors: Zhao Yongbing , Jia Xinmiao , Yang Junhui , Ling Yunchao , Zhang Zhang , Yu Jun , Wu Jiayan , Xiao Jingfa
Published: January 2014

Summary: Pan-genome analyses have shed light on the dynamics and evolution of bacterial genome from the point of population. The explosive growth of bacterial genome sequence also brought an extremely big challenge to pan-genome profile analysis. We developed a tool, named PanGP, to complete pan-genome profile analysis for large-scale strains efficiently. PanGP has integrated two sampling algorithms, totally random (TR) and distance guide (DG). The DG algorithm drew sample strain combinations on the basis of genome diversity of bacterial population. The performance of these two algorithms have been evaluated on four bacteria populations with strain numbers varying from 30 to 200, and the DG algorithm exhibited overwhelming advantage on accuracy and stability than the TR algorithm.

Availability: PanGP was developed with a user-friendly graphic interface and it was available at http://PanGP.big.ac.cn.

Contact:  xiaojingfa@big.ac.cn or wujy@big.ac.cn

Supplementary information:  Supplementary data are available at Bioinformatics online.
Evaluation of Modified Amaranth Starch as Shell Material for Encapsulation of Probiotics
Authors: Cortés Reyna Nallely Falfán , Martínez Marcela Gaytán , Guzmán Iñigo Verdalet , Llano Silvia Lorena Amaya , Grosso Carlos Raimundo Ferreira , Bustos Fernando Martínez
Published: January 2014

The objective of this study was to develop with thermoplastic extrusion amaranth starch derivatives and to characterize and evaluate their functionality as encapsulating agents of Bifidobacterium breve ATCC 15700 and Lactobacillus casei ATCC 334 during spray drying. The survival of both probiotics during storage at different water activities and at two storage temperatures, their viability in a food model system, and their tolerance to a simulated gastrointestinal tract were determined. Native amaranth starch was chemically modified to obtain phosphorylated, acetylated, and succinylated starch. Starch derivatives were reduced in viscosity, and the solubility in water was increased. In general, the modified amaranth starches and control corn starch did not provide good protection to both probiotics during storage at 25°C. However, there was excellent viability during storage at 4°C for both probiotics. Microcapsules showed a uniform coverage of the cells. Storage for 35 days at 25°C of blends of oat with succinylated amaranth microcapsules with probiotics had a lower reduction. Also, this succinylated amaranth starch containing probiotics showed a higher resistance to simulated gastrointestinal conditions. The results with food model systems supported the applicability of the modified starches.
Zinc Blotting Assay for Detection of Zinc‐Binding Prolamin in Barley (Hordeum vulgare) Grain
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Nasir , Nielsen Ane Langkilde‐Lauesen , Vincze Eva
Published: January 2014

In plants, zinc is commonly found bound to proteins. In barley (Hordeum vulgare), major storage proteins are alcohol‐soluble prolamins known as hordeins, and some of them have the potential to bind or store zinc. 65Zn overlay and blotting techniques have been widely used for detecting zinc‐binding protein. However, to our knowledge so far this zinc blotting assay has never been applied to detect a prolamin fraction in barley grains. A radioactive zinc (65ZnCl2) blotting technique was optimized to detect zinc‐binding prolamins, followed by development of an easy‐to‐follow nonradioactive colorimetric zinc blotting method with a zinc‐sensing dye, dithizone. Hordeins were extracted from mature barley grain, separated by SDS‐PAGE, blotted on a membrane, renatured, overlaid, and probed with zinc; subsequently, zinc‐binding specificity of certain proteins was detected either by autoradiography or color formation. The dithizone staining method gave similar reproducibility to the radioactive blotting. The detected zinc‐binding protein was identified as B‐hordein by Western blotting.
Resistance to Fludioxonil in Botrytis cinerea Isolates from Blackberry and Strawberry
Authors: Li Xingpeng , Fernández-Ortuño Dolores , Grabke Anja , Schnabel Guido
Published: January 2014

Site-specific fungicides, including the phenylpyrrole fludioxonil, are frequently used for gray mold control but are at risk for the development of resistance. In this study, field isolates that were low-resistant (LR) and moderately resistant (MR) to fludioxonil from blackberry and strawberry fields of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia were characterized. Genes involved in osmoregulation, including bcsak1, BcOS4, bos5, and BRRG-1, were cloned and sequenced to detect potential target gene alterations; however, none were found. A previously described mutation (R632I) in transcription factor Mrr1, which is known to increase the expression of ATP-binding cassette transporter AtrB, was found in MR but not in sensitive (S) or LR isolates. Expression of atrB in MR isolates was ≈200-fold increased compared with an S isolate; however, 30- to 100-fold overexpression was also detected in LR isolates. Both MR isolates exhibited increased sensitivity to salt stress in the form of mycelial growth inhibition at 4% NaCl, indicating a disruption of osmoregulatory processes in those strains. However, the glycerol content was indistinguishable between S, LR, and MR isolates with and without exposure to fludioxonil, suggesting that the glycerol synthesis pathway may not be a part of the resistance mechanism in LR or MR strains. An investigation into the origin of LR and MR isolates from blackberry revealed two insertions in the mrr1 gene consistent with those found in the Botrytis clade group S. The emergence of strains overexpressing atrB in European and now in North American strawberry fields underscores the importance of this resistance mechanism for development of resistance to fludioxonil in Botrytis cinerea.
Patient Blood Management in Elective Total Hip- and Knee-replacement Surgery (Part 1)
Authors: So-Osman Cynthia , Nelissen Rob G. H. H. , Koopman-van Gemert Ankie W. M. M. , Kluyver Ewoud , Pöll Ruud G. , Onstenk Ron , Van Hilten Joost A. , Jansen-Werkhoven Thekla M. , van den Hout Wilbert B. , Brand Ronald , Brand Anneke
Published: January 2014

Background:

Patient blood management combines the use of several transfusion alternatives. Integrated use of erythropoietin, cell saver, and/or postoperative drain reinfusion devices on allogeneic erythrocyte use was evaluated using a restrictive transfusion threshold.

Methods:

In a factorial design, adult elective hip- and knee-surgery patients with hemoglobin levels 10 to 13 g/dl (n = 683) were randomized for erythropoietin or not, and subsequently for autologous reinfusion by cell saver or postoperative drain reinfusion devices or for no blood salvage device. Primary outcomes were mean allogeneic intra- and postoperative erythrocyte use and proportion of transfused patients (transfusion rate). Secondary outcome was cost-effectiveness.

Results:

With erythropoietin (n = 339), mean erythrocyte use was 0.50 units (U)/patient and transfusion rate 16% while without (n = 344), these were 0.71 U/patient and 26%, respectively. Consequently, erythropoietin resulted in a nonsignificant 29% mean erythrocyte reduction (ratio, 0.71; 95% CI, 0.42 to 1.13) and 50% reduction of transfused patients (odds ratio, 0.5; 95% CI, 0.35 to 0.75). Erythropoietin increased costs by €785 per patient (95% CI, 262 to 1,309), that is, €7,300 per avoided transfusion (95% CI, 1,900 to 24,000). With autologous reinfusion, mean erythrocyte use was 0.65 U/patient and transfusion rate was 19% with erythropoietin (n = 214) and 0.76 U/patient and 29% without (n = 206). Compared with controls, autologous blood reinfusion did not result in erythrocyte reduction and increased costs by €537 per patient (95% CI, 45 to 1,030).

Conclusions:

In hip- and knee-replacement patients (hemoglobin level, 10 to 13 g/dl), even with a restrictive transfusion trigger, erythropoietin significantly avoids transfusion, however, at unacceptably high costs. Autologous blood salvage devices were not effective.
A review on equivalent magnetic noise of magnetoelectric laminate sensors
Authors: Wang Y. J. , Gao J. Q. , Li M. H. , Shen Y. , Hasanyan D. , Li J. F. , Viehland D.
Published: January 2014

Since the turn of the millennium, multi-phase magnetoelectric (ME) composites have been subject to attention and development, and giant ME effects have been found in laminate composites of piezoelectric and magnetostrictive layers. From an application perspective, the practical usefulness of a magnetic sensor is determined not only by the output signal of the sensor in response to an incident magnetic field, but also by the equivalent magnetic noise generated in the absence of such an incident field. Here, a short review of developments in equivalent magnetic noise reduction for ME sensors is presented. This review focuses on internal noise, the analysis of the noise contributions and a summary of noise reduction strategies. Furthermore, external vibration noise is also discussed. The review concludes with an outlook on future possibilities and scientific challenges in the field of ME magnetic sensors.
Extracellular gluco-oligosaccharide degradation by Caulobacter crescentus
Authors: Presley Gerald N. , Payea Matthew J. , Hurst Logan R. , Egan Annie E. , Martin Brandon S. , Periyannan Gopal R.
Published: January 2014

The oligotrophic bacteriumCaulobacter crescentushas the ability to metabolize various organic molecules, including plant structural carbohydrates, as a carbon source. The nature of β-glucosidase (BGL)-mediated gluco-oligosaccharide degradation and nutrient transport across the outer membrane inC. crescentuswas investigated. All gluco-oligosaccharides tested (up to celloheptose) supported growth in M2 minimal media but not cellulose or CM-cellulose. The periplasmic and outer membrane fractions showed highest BGL activity, but no significant BGL activity was observed in the cytosol or extracellular medium. Cells grown in cellobiose showed expression of specific BGLs and TonB-dependent receptors (TBDRs). Carbonyl cyanide 3-chlorophenylhydrazone lowered the rate of cell growth in cellobiose but not in glucose, indicating potential cellobiose transport into the cell by a proton motive force-dependent process, such as TBDR-dependent transport, and facilitated diffusion of glucose across the outer membrane via specific porins. These results suggest thatC. crescentusacquires carbon from cellulose-derived gluco-oligosaccharides found in the environment by extracellular and periplasmic BGL activity and TBDR-mediated transport. This report on extracellular degradation of gluco-oligosaccharides and methods of nutrient acquisition byC. crescentussupports a broader suite of carbohydrate metabolic capabilities suggested by theC. crescentusgenome sequence that until now have not been reported.
Cyclovirus in nasopharyngeal aspirates of Chilean children with respiratory infections
Authors: Phan Tung Gia , Luchsinger Vivian , Avendaño Luis F. , Deng Xutao , Delwart Eric
Published: January 2014

Some respiratory tract infections remain unexplained despite extensive testing for common pathogens. Nasopharyngeal aspirates (NPAs) from 120 Chilean infants from Santiago with acute lower respiratory tract infections were analysed by viral metagenomics, revealing the presence of nucleic acids from anelloviruses, adenovirus-associated virus and 12 known respiratory viral pathogens. A single sequence read showed translated protein similarity to cycloviruses. We used inverse PCR to amplify the complete circular ssDNA genome of a novel cyclovirus we named CyCV-ChileNPA1. Closely related variants were detected using PCR in the NPAs of three other affected children that also contained anelloviruses. This report increases the current knowledge of the genetic diversity of cycloviruses whose detection in multiple NPAs may reflect a tropism for human respiratory tissues.
Raf/MEK/ERK pathway activation is required for Junín virus replication
Authors: Rodríguez María Eugenia , Brunetti Jesús Emanuel , Wachsman Mónica Beatriz , Scolaro Luis Alberto , Castilla Viviana
Published: January 2014

In the present work we investigated the importance of the Raf/MEK/ERK signalling pathway in the multiplication of the arenavirus Junín (JUNV) in monkey and human cell cultures. We established that JUNV induces a biphasic activation of ERK and we proved that a specific inhibitor of the ERK pathway, U0126, impairs viral replication. Furthermore, U0126 exerted inhibitory action against the arenaviruses Tacaribe and Pichinde. Moreover, treatment with known ERK activators such as phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and serum increased viral yields whereas ERK silencing by small interfering RNAs caused the inhibition of viral multiplication. Therefore, activation of the Raf/MEK/ERK signalling pathway is required to ensure efficient JUNV replication and may constitute a host target for the development of novel effective therapeutic strategies to deal with arenavirus infections.
Global Epistasis Makes Adaptation Predictable Despite Sequence-Level Stochasticity
Authors: Kryazhimskiy Sergey , Rice Daniel Paul , Jerison Elizabeth , Desai Michael M
Published: January 2014

Epistasis can make adaptation highly unpredictable, rendering evolutionary trajectories contingent on the chance effects of initial mutations. We used experimental evolution inSaccharomyces cerevisiaeto quantify this effect, finding dramatic differences in adaptability between 64 closely related genotypes. Despite these differences, sequencing of 105 evolved clones showed no significant effect of initial genotype on future sequence-level evolution. Instead, reconstruction experiments revealed a consistent pattern of diminishing returns epistasis. Our results suggest that many beneficial mutations affecting a variety of biological processes are globally coupled: they interact strongly, but only through their combined effect on fitness. Sequence-level adaptation is thus highly stochastic. Nevertheless, fitness evolution is strikingly predictable because differences in adaptability are determined only by global fitness-mediated epistasis, not by the identity of individual mutations.
1,3,4-Tri-O-acetyl-2-N-(trifluoroacetyl)-β-L-fucose
Authors: McCutcheon David C. , Norris Peter , Zeller Matthias
Published: January 2014

The title compound, C14H18F3NO8, was produced through conjugation of 1,3,4-tri-O-acetyl-2-azidodeoxy-α,β-L-fucose with trifluoroacetyl chloride in the presence of bis(diphenylphosphino)ethane in tetrahydrofuran at room temperature. The X-ray crystal structure reveals that the β-anomer of the product mixture crystallizes from ethyl acetate/hexanes. The compound exists in a typical chair conformation with the maximum possible number of substituents, four out of five, located in the sterically preferred equatorial positions. The major directional force facilitating packing of the molecules are N—H...O hydrogen bonds involving the amide moieties of neighboring molecules, which connect molecules stacked along thea-axis direction into infinite strands with aC11(4) graph-set motif. Formation of the strands is assisted by a number of weaker C—H...O interactions involving the methine and methyl H atoms. These strands are connected through further C—H...O and C—H...F interactions into a three dimensional network
Evaluation of Aortic Calcification With Lanthanum Carbonate vs. Calcium‐Based Phosphate Binders in Maintenance Hemodialysis Patients With Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus: An Open‐Label Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Wada Kentaro , Wada Yuko
Published: January 2014

Vascular calcification (VC) contributes to cardiovascular disease in hemodialysis (HD) patients, especially with diabetes mellitus (DM) complications. No randomized studies have been published regarding the effect of lanthanum carbonate (LC) on VC progression in DM patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of lanthanum carbonate on the progression of VC in HD patients with type 2 DM. We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing LC with calcium carbonate (CC) in 43 HD patients at a single dialysis center. Estimations of aortic calcification index (ACI) by abdominal computed tomography were performed twice for each patient (at baseline and 12 months). Forty‐one patients completed the study (19 LC, 22 CC). When ACI at baseline was ≦0.48 (median of baseline ACI), median change in ACI (Δ%ACI) was 20.44 (11.50–36.80%) in the LC group, and 40.00 (33.30–92.60%) in the CC group (P = 0.026). On the other hand, when ACI at baseline was >0.48, the median change in ACI (Δ%ACI) was 6.42 (3.13–24.40%) in the LC group, and 8.08 (5.68–12.20%) in the CC group (P = 1.000). Serum markers of chronic kidney disease‐mineral and bone disorder (CKD‐MBD), HbA1c, dose of vitamin D analogues, and side‐effects of medications did not change in either group throughout the study except int‐PTH increased in the LC group. This study indicated that administration of LC inhibited the progression of VC in patients receiving HD for type 2 DM, only in cases of slight VC compared with CC.
Layers of the Landscape: Representations and Perceptions of an Ordinary (Shared) Sports Landscape in a Haitian and Dominican Community
Authors: WISE NICHOLAS
Published: January 2014

Over the last decade, much research has assessed sport in relation to geographical perspectives of place, landscape, and identity. Using multiple qualitative methods, including mental maps, interviews and conversations, and participant observation, this inductive study attempts to better understand local perceptions of an everyday landscape. This work was conducted in Villa Ascension, a rural community in the Dominican Republic consisting of Haitian and Dominican residents. Football is a strong component of Haitian identity, and baseball is likewise important to Dominicans. Currently, the community has one site where two sports are actively played. Given the community's heterogeneous ethnic composition, Villa Ascension's sports landscape is recognised as having multiple layers of meaning. Knowledge produced in this case study revealed the emergent themes of perceived interpretations of ordinary landscapes, the forging of boundaries, communal relationships and support, and hazards and modification of limited spaces for play. The landscape being a layered one with multiple representations of place and identity, the Haitians' broader perceptions suggest that they view the site as a place of primary importance. Alternatively, the Dominicans are attempting to forge and maintain their sense of sporting identity in the landscape.
Siderophore‐promoted dissolution of smectite by fluorescent Pseudomonas
Authors: Ferret Claire , Sterckeman Thibault , Cornu Jean‐Yves , Gangloff Sophie , Schalk Isabelle J. , Geoffroy Valérie A.
Published: January 2014

Siderophores are organic chelators produced by microorganisms to fulfil their iron requirements. Siderophore‐promoted dissolution of iron‐bearing minerals has been clearly documented for some siderophores, but few studies have addressed metabolizing siderophore‐producing bacteria. We investigated iron acquisition from clays by fluorescent Pseudomonads, bacteria that are ubiquitous in the environment. We focused on the interactions between smectite and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, a bacterium producing two structurally different siderophores: pyoverdine and pyochelin. The presence of smectite in iron‐limited growth media promoted planktonic growth of P. aeruginosa and biofilm surrounding the smectite aggregates. Chemical analysis of the culture media indicated increases in the dissolved silicon, iron and aluminium concentrations following smectite supplementation. The use of P. aeruginosa mutants unable to produce either one or both of the two siderophores indicated that pyoverdine, the siderophore with the higher affinity for iron, was involved in iron and aluminium solubilization by the wild‐type strain. However, in the absence of pyoverdine, pyochelin was also able to solubilize iron but with a twofold lower efficiency. In conclusion, pyoverdine and pyochelin, two structurally different siderophores, can solubilize structural iron from smectite and thereby make it available for bacterial growth.
Acute localised exanthematous pustulosis (ALEP) induced by clindamycin in pregnancy
Authors: De Cruz Ryan , Ferguson John , Wee Jamie S , Akhras Victoria
Published: January 2014

Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) or toxic pustuloderma (TP) is an uncommon though well‐recognised cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction that is usually drug‐induced. It presents with a triad of scattered sterile pustules, fever and malaise. Acute localised exanthematous pustulosis (ALEP) is a rare and unusual variant of AGEP. We describe a case of ALEP triggered by oral clindamycin that occurred during pregnancy.
Therapeutic potential of pterostilbene against pancreatic beta‐cell apoptosis mediated through Nrf2
Authors: Bhakkiyalakshmi Elango , Shalini Devibalan , Sekar Thillai Veerapazham , Rajaguru Palanisamy , Paulmurugan Ramasamy , Ramkumar Kunka Mohanram
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose

Nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) is considered to be a ‘master regulator’ of the antioxidant response as it regulates the expression of several genes including phase II metabolic and antioxidant enzymes and thus plays an important role in preventing oxidative stress‐mediated disorders, including diabetes. In this study, for the first time, we investigated the protective properties of a naturally available antioxidant, pterostilbene (PTS), against pancreatic beta‐cell apoptosis and the involvement of Nrf2 in its mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

Immunoblotting and quantitative reverse transcriptase (qRT)‐PCR analysis were performed to identify PTS‐mediated nuclear translocation of Nrf2 protein and the following activation of target gene expression, respectively, in INS‐1E cells. In addition, an annexin‐V binding assay was carried out to identify the apoptotic status of PTS‐treated INS‐1E cells, while confirming the anti‐apoptotic potential of Nrf2 by qRT‐PCR analysis of the expressions of both pro‐ and anti‐apoptotic genes.

Key Results

PTS induced significant activation of Nrf2, in dose‐ and time‐dependent manner, in streptozotocin‐treated INS‐1E rat pancreatic beta‐cells. Furthermore, PTS increased the expression of target genes downstream of Nrf2, such as heme oxygenase 1 (HO1), superoxide dismutase (SOD), catalase (CAT) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx), that confer cellular protection. PTS also up‐regulated the expression of anti‐apoptotic gene, Bcl‐2, with a concomitant reduction in pro‐apoptotic Bax and caspase‐3 expression.

Conclusion and Implications

Collectively, our findings indicate the therapeutic potential of Nrf2 activation by PTS as a promising approach to safeguard pancreatic beta‐cells against oxidative damage in diabetes.
Chronic nicotine improves short‐term memory selectively in a G72 mouse model of schizophrenia
Authors: Hambsch B , Keyworth H , Lind J , Otte D M , Racz I , Kitchen I , Bailey A , Zimmer A
Published: January 2014

Background and Purpose

The prevalence of smoking in schizophrenia patients is exceptionally high; it is not known why but many researchers suggest that smoking constitutes a form of self‐medication. Among the symptoms of schizophrenia that may be improved by nicotine are cognitive deficits. Hence, we studied the effects of long‐term nicotine administration on cognition in a genetic animal model of schizophrenia susceptibility, G72‐transgenic (G72Tg) mice.

Experimental Approach

The effect of long‐term nicotine or saline, administered by osmotic minipumps, on different cognitive domains was assessed in G72Tg mice and controls using a battery of behavioural tests. To investigate the mechanism underlying phenotypic differences, quantitative autoradiographic mapping of nACh receptor subtypes was performed in forebrain structures to explore effects of chronic nicotine exposure on nACh receptor density in wild‐type (WT) and G72Tg mice.

Key Results

Genotype significantly affected the cognitive effects of chronic nicotine administration. Whereas chronic nicotine disrupted cognitive performance in WT mice, it was effective at restoring impaired prepulse inhibition, working memory and social recognition in G72Tg mice. However, long‐term spatial learning was further impaired by nicotine in transgenic animals. In contrast, associative learning was protected by G72‐expression against the adverse nicotine effects seen in WT animals. G72‐expression did not decisively influence nicotine‐induced up‐regulation of the α4β2*subtype, whereas α7nACh receptor density was differentially altered by genotype or by a genotype·treatment interaction in specific brain areas, most notably hippocampal subregions.

Conclusions and Implications

Our data support the hypothesis that nicotine self‐medication of schizophrenics improves cognitive symptoms, possibly by facilitating nicotine‐induced α7nACh receptor activation in the hippocampus.
Decentring the Creative Self: How Others Make Creativity Possible in Creative Professional Fields
Authors: Glăveanu Vlad Petre , Lubart Todd
Published: January 2014

Since its inception, the psychology of creativity has been concerned primarily with the study of individual creators. In contrast, this research is dedicated to an exploration of (a) who has a significant impact on a creative professional's activity and (b) what the contribution is that others make to creative outcomes. The research included interviews with 60 professionals working in science and creative industries in France. The following categories of others emerged: family and friends, peers and students, clients and funders, critics and gatekeepers, and the general public – and they were related to themes depicting the interaction between these different others and the creator. Findings reveal both similarities and differences across the five domains in terms of the specific contribution of others to the creative process. Social interactions play a key formative, regulatory, motivational and informational role in relation to creative work. From ‘internalized’ to ‘distant’, other people are an integral part of the equation of creativity calling for a de‐centring of the creative self and its re‐centring in a social space of actions and interactions.
Creativity and Innovation inHauteCuisine: Towards a Systemic Model
Authors: Stierand Marc , Dörfler Viktor , MacBryde Jillian
Published: January 2014

The contribution of this study is an increased understanding of personal creativity and the innovation process in haute cuisine, a validation of the socio‐cultural systems view of creativity and a model that accounts for the socio‐cultural dimensions of haute cuisine. In this paper we discuss existing views that conceptualize creativity and innovation in this sector as a sequential developmental process following the principles of operations management. However, based on in‐depth interviews with world‐renowned chefs, we argue for a systemic rather than sequential developmental process view. The reason for this is that the chefs interviewed understand the ‘creativity part’ of the innovation process as an embodied experience often guided by intuition and the ‘innovation part’ as a process of social evaluation greatly dependent on the perception, knowledge and value judgement of the testers from the leading restaurant guides. The main implications of the findings go beyond the haute cuisine sector and open areas for future research on creativity and intuition more generally.
Walking, places and wellbeing
Authors: Ettema Dick , Smajic Ifeta
Published: January 2014

While there is a substantial body of research on the health implications of walking, the physical, emotional and social outcomes of walking have received limited attention. This paper explores the wellbeing effects of walking and how the walking environment fosters or hinders such wellbeing effects. This is done using a novel mobile data collection technique, allowing for in situ recording of walking experiences, combined with focus groups. The results of the study suggest that the affect level of pedestrians is highest in places with many activities going on and many people being around. However, in support of restoration theory, we find that places with lower activation levels may also foster positive feelings, especially if they contain natural elements (such as trees and water) or buildings with a more contemplative character. While perceived safety of walking locations does not directly increase the affect level, it makes people feel more active, probably because it increases people's autonomy and self‐esteem.