bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Event‐related potential evidence for a dynamic (re‐)weighting of somatotopic and external coordinates of touch during visual–tactile interactions
Authors: Ley Pia , Steinberg Ulf , Hanganu‐Opatz Ileana L. , Röder Brigitte
Published: April 2015

The localization of touch in external space requires the remapping of somatotopically represented tactile information into an external frame of reference. Several recent studies have highlighted the role of posterior parietal areas for this remapping process, yet its temporal dynamics are poorly understood. The present study combined cross‐modal stimulation with electrophysiological recordings in humans to trace the time course of tactile spatial remapping during visual–tactile interactions. Adopting an uncrossed or crossed hand posture, participants made speeded elevation judgments about rare vibrotactile stimuli within a stream of frequent, task‐irrelevant vibrotactile events presented to the left or right hand. Simultaneous but spatially independent visual stimuli had to be ignored. An analysis of the recorded event‐related potentials to the task‐irrelevant vibrotactile stimuli revealed a somatotopic coding of tactile stimuli within the first 100 ms. Between 180 and 250 ms, neither an external nor a somatotopic representation dominated, suggesting that both coordinates were active in parallel. After 250 ms, tactile stimuli were coded in a somatotopic frame of reference. Our results indicate that cross‐modal interactions start before the termination of tactile spatial remapping, that is within the first 100 ms. Thereafter, tactile stimuli are represented simultaneously in both somatotopic and external spatial coordinates, which are dynamically (re‐)weighted as a function of processing stage.
Codominant water control on global interannual variability and trends in land surface phenology and greenness
Authors: Forkel Matthias , Migliavacca Mirco , Thonicke Kirsten , Reichstein Markus , Schaphoff Sibyll , Weber Ulrich , Carvalhais Nuno
Published: April 2015

Identifying the relative importance of climatic and other environmental controls on the interannual variability and trends in global land surface phenology and greenness is challenging. Firstly, quantifications of land surface phenology and greenness dynamics are impaired by differences between satellite data sets and phenology detection methods. Secondly, dynamic global vegetation models (DGVMs) that can be used to diagnose controls still reveal structural limitations and contrasting sensitivities to environmental drivers. Thus, we assessed the performance of a new developed phenology module within the LPJmL (Lund–Potsdam–Jena managed Lands) DGVM with a comprehensive ensemble of three satellite data sets of vegetation greenness and ten phenology detection methods, thereby thoroughly accounting for observational uncertainties. The improved and tested model allows us quantifying the relative importance of environmental controls on interannual variability and trends of land surface phenology and greenness at regional and global scales. We found that start of growing season interannual variability and trends are in addition to cold temperature mainly controlled by incoming radiation and water availability in temperate and boreal forests. Warming‐induced prolongations of the growing season in high latitudes are dampened by a limited availability of light. For peak greenness, interannual variability and trends are dominantly controlled by water availability and land‐use and land‐cover change (LULCC) in all regions. Stronger greening trends in boreal forests of Siberia than in North America are associated with a stronger increase in water availability from melting permafrost soils. Our findings emphasize that in addition to cold temperatures, water availability is a codominant control for start of growing season and peak greenness trends at the global scale.
Chlorhexidine mouthwash and sodium lauryl sulphate dentifrice: do they mix effectively or interfere?
Authors: Elkerbout TA , Slot DE , Bakker EWP , Van der Weijden GA
Published: April 2015

Focused question

What is the effectiveness of a chlorhexidine (CHX) mouthwash used in combination with a sodium lauryl sulphate (SLS) dentifrice on the parameters of plaque and gingivitis?

Material and methods

MEDLINE‐PubMed, Cochrane‐CENTRAL, EMBASE and other electronic databases were searched up to July 2014. The inclusion criteria were (randomized) controlled clinical trials, subjects ≥18 years of age with good general health. Papers evaluating the effect of CHX mouthwash used in combination with SLS dentifrice or a dentifrice slurry compared with CHX mouthwash as a single oral hygiene intervention or in combination with an SLS‐free dentifrice were included. From the eligible studies, data were extracted, and a meta‐analysis was performed when feasible.

Results

Independent screening of 83 unique papers resulted in four eligible publications, with nine comparisons. The meta‐analysis showed that when an SLS dentifrice was used as a slurry rinse, the interference on the plaque‐inhibiting effect of a CHX mouthwash was significantly decreased (MD 0.33; P ≤ 0.00001; 95% CI: <0.24; 0.42>). No significant difference was observed when SLS dentifrice was applied as a paste in combination with CHX mouthwash (MD 0.08; P = 0.42; 95% CI: <−0.26; 0.11>). Descriptive and subgroup analyses support these findings. Moreover, the observed effect for the dentifrice paste occurred regardless of the order of use.

Conclusion

This review demonstrates that when CHX mouthwash is recommended, it can be used in combination with an SLS dentifrice without any interference regarding its inhibiting effect on dental plaque, regardless of the order of use. Consequently, the collective evidence indicates that the combined use of dentifrice and CHX mouthwash is not contraindicated. However, this recommendation has been graded as moderate taking into account a potential publication bias because three of the four included studies emerged from the same research group.
Comparison of the anti‐obesity and hypocholesterolaemic effects of single Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota and probiotic cocktail
Authors: Aazmi Shafiq , Teh Lay Kek , Ramasamy Kalavathy , Rahman Thuhairah , Salleh Mohd Zaki
Published: April 2015

This study compared the efficacy of Lactobacillus casei strain Shirota (LAB13) and a probiotic cocktail for their anti‐obesity and other lipid profile modulating effects. Diet‐induced obese rats were supplemented with two different probiotics which are LAB13 (1 × 109 CFU day−1 per rat) and cocktail of five bacterial strains (1 × 109 CFU day−1 per rat) for 12 weeks. Comparative data on weight gain, energy intake, liver weight, subcutaneous fat, total fat weights, total cholesterol and leptin levels in both treatment groups showed significant reduction in probiotic‐treated groups compared to the obese control group. Both probiotics have the anti‐obesity and hypocholesterolaemic effects and are able to reduce body weight and fats via reduction in energy intake. Only LAB13 was able to reduce the level of triglyceride significantly. Therefore, the LAB13 is equally effective compared to the probiotic cocktail in weight reduction. LAB13 is more effective in improving lipid profile which is a common medical complication of obesity.
Situated Entrepreneurial Cognition
Authors: Dew Nicholas , Grichnik Dietmar , Mayer‐Haug Katrin , Read Stuart , Brinckmann Jan
Published: April 2015

This paper reviews and integrates research from both within and outside the entrepreneurship field under the label of ‘situated cognition’. Situated cognition is the notion that cognitive activity inherently involves perception and action in the context of a human body situated in a real‐world environment. The review concentrates on three areas of the situated cognition literature that have significant implications for research in entrepreneurial cognition: embedded, grounded and distributed cognition. While these three aspects of cognition differ in terms of foci and core theses, they share the common emphasis of viewing and investigating cognitive processes by going beyond the individual mind and paying attention to the human body, (material) objects and other people. Using the theoretical lens of situated cognition provides new insights into current entrepreneurship phenomena such as co‐creation and interaction in a shared economy based on new technologies.
Fear and Entrepreneurship: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Cacciotti Gabriella , Hayton James C.
Published: April 2015

A systematic review of the entrepreneurship literature on fear published up to 2014 highlights several key characteristics. First, the predominant focus in research examining the emotion of fear in entrepreneurship is on the specific concept of fear of failure. However, this literature shows a lack of precision in the conceptualization and operationalization of this construct. The impact of the experience of fear on individual cognition and behaviour can be beneficial as well as detrimental. Despite this dualistic nature, to date, fear is examined as only a barrier to entrepreneurial behaviour. This review reveals a clear dichotomy in the literature, with significantly more focus on fear as a trait that distinguishes between people than as a temporary state that is commonly experienced by many people. Defining fear of failure as a context‐specific phenomenon, this paper explains the importance of focusing on the temporary cognitive and emotional experience of fear and use conceptual observations as a platform to develop an agenda for future research.
Opportunity Evaluation as Future Focused Cognition: Identifying Conceptual Themes and Empirical Trends
Authors: Wood Matthew S. , McKelvie Alexander
Published: April 2015

The evaluation of opportunities to introduce new goods or services to one or more markets is an essential part of entrepreneurship, and the last decade ushered in a steady stream of studies on the topic. However, to date, this knowledge has not been systematically reviewed. The current article addresses this gap by synthesizing studies that speak to the evaluation of entrepreneurial opportunities. The review of 53 articles involves the development of a thematic framework used to organize the literature in terms of conceptual and empirical themes as well as patterns in publication trends. The insights derived culminate in an integrative framework that conceptually describes what goes on in the ‘mind in the middle’ as opportunity evaluation unfolds. The model illuminates a path for future research that guides improved understanding of the cognitive dynamics that lead some individuals to believe that a set of circumstances represents an attractive opportunity while others have little confidence that the same circumstances represent an opportunity at all.
Caspase‐11: arming the guards against bacterial infection
Authors: Stowe Irma , Lee Bettina , Kayagaki Nobuhiko
Published: April 2015

As a front line of defense against pathogenic microbes, our body employs a primitive, yet highly sophisticated and potent innate immune response pathway collectively referred to as the inflammasome. Innate immune cells, epithelial cells, and many other cell types are capable of detecting infection or tissue injury and mounting a coordinated molecular defense. For example, Gram‐negative bacteria are specifically detected via a surveillance mechanism that involves activation of extracellular receptors such as Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) followed by intracellular recognition and activation of pathways such as caspase‐11 (caspase‐4/5 in humans). Importantly, lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the major component of the outer membrane of Gram‐negative bacteria, is a strong trigger of these pathways. Extracellular LPS primarily stimulates TLR4, which can serve as a priming signal for expression of inflammasome components. Intracellular LPS can then trigger caspase‐11‐dependent inflammasome activation in the cytoplasm. Here, we briefly review the burgeoning caspase‐11‐dependent non‐canonical inflammasome field, focusing mainly on the innate sensing of LPS.
A twofold role for global energy gradients in marine biodiversity trends
Authors: Valentine James W. , Jablonski David
Published: April 2015

Explanations for major biodiversity patterns have not achieved a consensus, even for the latitudinal diversity gradient (LDG), but most relate to patterns of solar energy influx into Earth systems, and its effects on temperature (as biochemical activity rates are temperature sensitive) and photosynthesis (which drives nearly all of the productivity that fuels ecosystems). Marine systems break some of the confounding correlations among temperature, latitude and biodiversity that typify the terrestrial systems that have dominated theoretical discussions and large‐scale analyses. High marine diversities occur not only in warm shallow seas where productivity may be either low or high, depending on regional features, but also in very cold deep‐sea regions, indicating that diversity is promoted by stability in temperature and in trophic resources (nutrients and food items), and more specifically by their interaction, rather than by high mean values of either variable. The common association of high diversity with stable but low to moderate annual productivity suggests that ecological specialization underlies the similarly high diversities in the shallow tropics and deep sea. Recent work on shallow‐marine bivalves is consistent with this view of decreasing specialization in less stable habitats. Lower diversities in shallow seas are associated with either high thermal seasonality (chiefly in temperate latitudes) or highly seasonal trophic supplies (at any latitude), which exclude species that are adapted to narrow ranges of those variables.
Mole modifications following controlled ovarian stimulation for assisted reproduction technologies
Authors: Auriemma M. , Di Nicola M. , Varrati S. , Carbone A. , Pamio A. , Capo A. , Tracanna M. , Castigliego A.P. , Tiboni G.M. , Amerio P.
Published: April 2015

Background

The role of estrogens on moles biology remains undefined although estrogenic receptors have been found on melanocytes. It has been postulated that supraphysiological estrogen levels could promote the progression of moles to melanoma. Women undergoing controlled ovarian stimulation (COS) for assisted reproductive technologies (ART) are exposed to high levels of estrogens, produced by the ovary in response to exogenous gonadotropin administration. The aim of this study is to assess whether COS for ART may have an impact on mole structure and/or characteristics.

Methods

Women undergoing to ART for various infertility conditions were included in the study. Personal and clinical data were collected. Dermatoscopic features and scores (total dermoscopy score – TDS) were statistically compared before COS and after a 6‐month follow‐up period. Statistical correlation was performed between estradiol, FSH blood levels and relative variation in moles dimensions.

Results

A total of 46 patients were included in the study. One hundred and seventy‐five melanocytic lesions from 31 patients were evaluated at both time points. Although statistically significant differences were found in mole dimension and TDS between the two time points, these differences had no relevance in the clinical setting not suggesting the need for mole excision. Moreover, the only statistically significant correlation with estradiol blood concentration on hCG administration day was found with one‐axis dimensional variation.

Conclusions

To our knowledge this is the first work to evaluate the effect of COS on moles. The obtained results do not support a causal relation between the supraphysiological hormone levels stimulation and worsening of clinical and dermoscopical features of moles. Further study is needed to clarify whether estrogens plays a role in melanoma.
Foraging mode affects the evolution of egg size in generalist predators embedded in complex food webs
Authors: Verdeny‐Vilalta O. , Fox C. W. , Wise D. H. , Moya‐Laraño J.
Published: April 2015

Ecological networks incorporate myriad biotic interactions that determine the selection pressures experienced by the embedded populations. We argue that within food webs, the negative scaling of abundance with body mass and foraging theory predict that the selective advantages of larger egg size should be smaller for sit‐and‐wait than active‐hunting generalist predators, leading to the evolution of a difference in egg size between them. Because body mass usually scales negatively with predator abundance and constrains predation rate, slightly increasing egg mass should simultaneously allow offspring to feed on more prey and escape from more predators. However, the benefits of larger offspring would be relatively smaller for sit‐and‐wait predators because (i) due to their lower mobility, encounters with other predators are less common, and (ii) they usually employ a set of alternative hunting strategies that help to subdue relatively larger prey. On the other hand, for active predators, which need to confront prey as they find them, body‐size differences may be more important in subduing prey. This difference in benefits should lead to the evolution of larger egg sizes in active‐hunting relative to sit‐and‐wait predators. This prediction was confirmed by a phylogenetically controlled analysis of 268 spider species, supporting the view that the structure of ecological networks may serve to predict relevant selective pressures acting on key life history traits.
‘Well, who do I phone?’ Preparing for urgent care: a challenge for patients and service providers alike'
Authors: Coates Vivien E , McCann Adrian , Posner Natasha , Gunn Kathleen , Seers Kate
Published: April 2015

Aims and objectives

To investigate factors influencing patients' self‐management of urgent diabetes problems that precipitated unscheduled hospital care.

Background

Diabetes is placing increasing resource demands on health services and current policy advocates management in primary care and community settings whenever possible. Such policy has implications for patient education and empowerment and on mechanisms within primary and community care to support the management of diabetes when urgent healthcare problems arise.

Design

Qualitative, descriptive investigation, across two contrasting sites.

Methods

Forty‐five people admitted to hospital for urgent/emergency care due to diabetes‐related problems were recruited from urban and rural localities in the UK. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted and data analysed using nvivo version 8 and framework techniques.

Results

Self‐management of diabetes was typically habitual, and urgent problems that proved difficult to resolve necessitated recourse to unscheduled hospital care. Though skills relating to problem‐solving, decision‐making, resource use and formation of patient–provider partnerships were evident among some participants, these required further development. Evidence of action planning or self‐tailoring skills was sparse.

Conclusions

Education plays an important role in assisting individuals to self‐manage their diabetes on a daily basis, but urgent, unexpected health problems proved challenging for both patients and health service providers. A greater focus on empowering patients with core self‐management skills is required to enhance ability to successfully manage unexpected diabetes complications, coupled with enhanced primary care resources, particularly out‐of‐hours.

Relevance to clinical practice

The importance of informal and structured diabetes education should not be underestimated; however, the challenge of improving skills such as problem‐solving to manage urgent healthcare needs must be tackled. This study provokes debate regarding how best to deliver appropriate education and health services to cover urgent unscheduled care needs without automatically referring to emergency department hospital care.
Reduced expression of TRIM21/Ro52 predicts poor prognosis in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma patients with and without rheumatic disease
Authors: Brauner S. , Zhou W. , Backlin C. , Green T. M. , Folkersen L. , Ivanchenko M. , Löfström B. , Xu‐Monette Z. Y. , Young K. H. , Møller Pedersen L. , Boe Møller M. , Sundström C. , Enblad G. , Baecklund E. , Wahren‐Herlenius M.
Published: April 2015

Objective

TRIM21 (also known as Ro52) is an autoantigen in rheumatic disease and is predominantly expressed in leucocytes. Overexpression is associated with decreased proliferation, and the TRIM21 gene maps to a tumour suppressor locus. We therefore investigated the expression of TRIM21 in patients with diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) and its potential usefulness as a prognostic biomarker.

Materials and methods

TRIM21 expression levels were assessed by immunohistochemistry in lymphoma biopsies from three cohorts of patients with DLBCL: 42 patients with rheumatic disease treated with a cyclophosphamide, vincristine, doxorubicin and prednisone (CHOP)‐like regimen, 76 CHOP‐treated and 196 rituximab‐CHOP‐treated nonrheumatic patients. Expression was correlated with clinical and biomedical parameters. TRIM21 expression was assessed in relation to lymphocyte proliferation by quantitative PCR and correlated with 3H‐thymidine incorporation and propidium iodine staining.

Results

TRIM21 expression levels differed in the lymphomas compared to normal lymphoid tissue, with reduced expression correlating with shorter overall survival in all three cohorts. In the two larger cohorts, progression‐free survival was assessed and was also found to correlate with TRIM21 expression. The association was independent of commonly used clinical prognostic scores, lymphoma subtype and several previously reported prognostic biomarkers. In agreement with this clinical observation, we noted an inverse correlation between TRIM21 expression and proliferation of leucocytes in vitro.

Conclusions

We show that loss of TRIM21 expression is associated with more aggressive lymphoma and increased proliferation, whereas maintenance of TRIM21 expression is associated with better prognosis in patients with DLBCL. Based on our findings, we suggest that TRIM21 should be considered as a novel biomarker for lymphoma characterization and for predicting patient survival.
Growth differentiation factor 15 as a radiation‐induced marker in oral carcinoma increasing radiation resistance
Authors: Schiegnitz Eik , Kämmerer Peer W. , Rode Katharina , Schorn Thomas , Brieger Jürgen , Al‐Nawas Bilal
Published: April 2015

Background

Growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF15) is involved in tumor pathogenesis of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). The aim of this study was an investigation of the potential influence of GDF15 on radioresistance of OSCC cells in vitro.

Methods

Oral squamous cell carcinoma cell lines were irradiated with 0, 2, or 6 Gy, and GDF15 expression in the supernatant per survived cell colony was examined with ELISA. Non‐irradiated and OSCC cell lines irradiated with 6 Gy were evaluated for GDF15 expression using immunofluorescent staining. For further investigation of GDF15 effects on radioresistance, a GDF15 knockdown model in a human OSCC cell line was established, and apoptotic activity after radiation was measured using the Caspase‐Glo 3/7 system.

Results

ELISA and immunofluorescent staining indicated an increased GDF15 expression in 5 OSCC cell lines compared with human gingival epithelial cells. Irradiation with two and six gray resulted in a significant elevation of GDF15 expression per survived cell colony in the irradiated OSCC cell lines (P < 0.001). Furthermore, a dose‐dependent expression of GDF15 was seen. Immunofluorescent staining confirmed an elevated GDF15 expression in irradiated OSCC cell lines (n = 10; P ≤ 0.001). Apoptotic activity was significantly increased after irradiation in the GDF15 knockdown group compared with control cells (n = 24; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study describes for the first time the vital role of GDF15 both in tumorigenesis and in radioresistance of OSCC cells. With its anti‐apoptotic effects, GDF15 possibly promotes tumor progression and might protect carcinoma cells against irradiation effects. Consequently, GDF15 may be a promising therapeutic target in oral cancer.
School Staff Perspectives on the Challenges and Solutions to Working With Court‐Involved Students
Authors: Crosby Shantel D. , Day Angelique G. , Baroni Beverly A. , Somers Cheryl L.
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND

Court‐involved students, such as those in foster care and the juvenile justice system, generally experience high incidences of both acute and chronic trauma, adversely impacting their educational well‐being and overall academic trajectory. Utilizing perceptions of teachers and other school staff, this study explores the challenges and needs of school personnel working with this student population.

METHODS

Participants were school personnel employed at a Midwest, urban, public charter school during the 2012‐2013 academic year. Focus groups explored the perceptions of school staff members working with court‐involved students to develop a staff training curriculum. Focus groups also were conducted after the training intervention to get feedback from participants and identify remaining challenges. Focus group data were analyzed and results were member‐checked with study participants.

RESULTS

Findings included 7 major themes (14 subthemes) regarding student behaviors that were challenging for school staff to manage. Themes included trauma‐related behaviors, attachment‐related behaviors, staff preintervention needs, intervention feedback, and staff postintervention needs.

CONCLUSIONS

Teachers and school staff can play a role in the educational well‐being of court‐involved youth. However, they need trauma‐specific knowledge and resources to be effective.
Temperature Effects on the Onset of Sporulation by Phytophthora ramorum on Rhododendron ‘Cunningham's White’
Authors: Tooley Paul W. , Browning Marsha
Published: April 2015

The effect of temperature and moist period on the onset of sporangia production by Phytophthora ramorum on Rhododendron ‘Cunningham's White’ was examined with misted detached leaves held in humid chambers. Following wound inoculation with sporangia, leaves were pre‐incubated at 20°C for either 24 or 72 h prior to placement at six different temperatures (4, 10, 15, 20, 25 and 30°C). The overall mean moist period required for first occurrence of sporulation over all six temperatures was 3.24 days with the 24‐h pre‐incubation time, compared with 1.49 days for the 72‐h pre‐incubation time. Following 24 h pre‐incubation at 20°C and at an incubation temperature of 15°C, sporangia were first collected from leaves following a 24 h incubation. At 10 and 20°C, sporangia were first collected after 48 h, whereas at 4, 25 and 30°C, sporangia were first collected after 3 days. Following 72 h pre‐incubation at 20°C, sporulation generally occurred within 1 day, even at temperatures such at 4 and 30°C that are suboptimal for sporulation. The highest levels of P. ramorum sporulation were observed at 20°C. P. ramorum formed sporangia on host tissue under moist conditions within the same time frame reported for P. phaseoli, P. palmivora and P. nicotianae, but substantially more slowly than certain other species such as P. infestans. Quantifying moisture and temperature conditions for initiation of sporangia production provides knowledge which leads to a greater understanding of the epidemic potential of P. ramorum.
Shikonin inhibits the cell viability, adhesion, invasion and migration of the human gastric cancer cell line MGC-803 via the Toll-like receptor 2/nuclear factor-kappa B pathway
Authors: Liu Ji Ping , Liu Dan , Gu Jun Fei , Zhu Mao Mao , Cui Li
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Shikonin is an active naphthoquinone pigment isolated from the root of Lithospermum erythrorhizon. This study was designed to explore the inhibition of Shikonin on cell viability, adhesion, migration and invasion ability of gastric cancer (GC) and its possible mechanism.

Methods

3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide assay was performed for cell viability and adhesion ability of MGC-803 cells. Cell scratch repair experiments were conducted for the determination of migration ability while transwell assay for cell invasion ability. Western blot analysis and real-time polymerase chain reaction assay were used for the detection of protein and mRNA expressions.

Key findings

Fifty per cent inhibitory concentration of Shikonin on MGC-803 cells was 1.854 μm. Shikonin (1 μm) inhibited significantly the adhesion, invasion and migratory ability of MGC-803 cells. Interestingly, Shikonin in the presence or absence of anti-Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) antibody (2 μg) and nuclear factor-kappa B (NF-κB) inhibitor MG-132 (10 μm) could decrease these ability of MGC-803 cells markedly, as well as the expression levels of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2, MMP-7, TLR2 and p65 NF-κB. In addition, the co-incubation of Shikonin and anti-TLR2/MG-132 has a significant stronger activity than anti-TLR2 or MG-132 alone.

Conclusions

The results indicated that Shikonin could suppress the cell viability, adhesion, invasion and migratory ability of MGC-803 cells through TLR2- or NF-κB-mediated pathway. Our findings provide novel information for the treatment of Shikonin on GC.
Role of density and resource competition in determining aggressive behaviour in salamanders
Authors: Manenti R. , Pennati R. , Ficetola G. F.
Published: April 2015

Intraspecific aggression is an important aspect of social behaviour that can significantly affect individual survivorship and population dynamics. Aggressiveness may be particularly important in food‐deprived habitats, like caves, but few studies have investigated behavioural and ecological determinants of aggressiveness and cannibalism in cave vertebrates. In this study, we evaluated the role of density, competition for food, starvation and rearing history under cave‐like conditions in promoting aggression. We performed a behavioural experiment on larvae collected from multiple underground springs and neighbouring streams, and we reared them under two different settings: total darkness and outdoor conditions. Intraspecific attacks were very scarce in hatchlings, and increased after 1 month. Starvation periods and high density clearly increased aggressiveness. Furthermore, aggressiveness strongly increased under competition conditions (presence of other larvae feeding). Aggressiveness increased with age more quickly in larvae from caves than in those from streams. Environmental features typically experienced by cave populations, such as starvation and high density, increase intraspecific attacks and might promote cannibalism. Strong plasticity for aggression may enhance the possibility to successfully colonize and exploit food‐deprived environments where no other predators can survive, such as underground environments.
Positive and purifying selection in mitochondrial genomes of a bird with mitonuclear discordance
Authors: Morales Hernán E. , Pavlova Alexandra , Joseph Leo , Sunnucks Paul
Published: April 2015

Diversifying selection on metabolic pathways can reduce intraspecific gene flow and promote population divergence. An opportunity to explore this arises from mitonuclear discordance observed in an Australian bird Eopsaltria australis. Across >1500 km, nuclear differentiation is low and latitudinally structured by isolation by distance, whereas two highly divergent, parapatric mitochondrial lineages (>6.6% in ND2) show a discordant longitudinal geographic pattern and experience different climates. Vicariance, incomplete lineage sorting and sex‐biased dispersal were shown earlier to be unlikely drivers of the mitonuclear discordance; instead, natural selection on a female‐linked trait was the preferred hypothesis. Accordingly, here we tested for signals of positive, divergent selection on mitochondrial genes in E. australis. We used codon models and physicochemical profiles of amino acid replacements to analyse complete mitochondrial genomes of the two mitochondrial lineages in E. australis, its sister species Eopsaltria griseogularis, and outgroups. We found evidence of positive selection on at least five amino acids, encoded by genes of two oxidative phosphorylation pathway complexes NADH dehydrogenase (ND4 and ND4L) and cytochrome bc1 (cyt‐b) against a background of widespread purifying selection on all mitochondrial genes. Three of these amino acid replacements were fixed in ND4 of the geographically most widespread E. australis lineage. The other two replacements were fixed in ND4L and cyt‐b of the geographically more restricted E. australis lineage. We discuss whether this selection may reflect local environmental adaptation, a by‐product of other selective processes, or genetic incompatibilities, and propose how these hypotheses can be tested in future.
Do stressed mothers have heavier children? A meta‐analysis on the relationship between maternal stress and child body mass index
Authors: Tate E. B. , Wood W. , Liao Y. , Dunton G. F.
Published: April 2015

Child obesity continues to be a prevalent public health issue. This meta‐analysis synthesized 17 studies investigating the association between levels of psychological stress experienced by mothers and the body mass index of their children. The overall standardized mean difference effect size was positive and significantly different from zero in cross‐sectional d = 0.20 (k = 14, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.06, 0.34) and longitudinal studies d = 0.18 (k = 5, 95% CI: 0.00, 0.351) and had significant heterogeneity in both (cross‐sectional, Q[13] = 193.00, P < 0.001; longitudinal, Q[4] = 29.46, P < 0.001). In longitudinal studies, effect sizes were larger when children also would have experienced the stressor, Q(6) = 4.68, P < 0.05, for toddlers than infants, Q(4) = 5.04, P < 0.05, and in higher quality studies, Q(4) = 14.58, P < 0.05. Results highlight the potential benefits of including a parent stress management component in childhood obesity prevention programmes.
Leaf litter species identity alters the structure of pond communities
Authors: Stoler Aaron B. , Relyea Rick A.
Published: April 2015

The input of leaf litter resources is a major driver of ecosystem processes in terrestrial and freshwater habitats. Although variation exists in the quantity and composition of litter inputs due to natural and anthropogenic causes, few studies have examined how such variation influences the structure and composition of aquatic food webs. Using outdoor mesocosms, we examined the bottom–up effects of 10 chemically distinct tree litter species on microbial, algal, invertebrate and vertebrate fauna found in temperate ponds. We hypothesized that individual litter species, which differ in their traits, would differentially and predictably affect abiotic and biotic elements of pond communities. We further hypothesized that the presence of leaf litter, regardless of species, would elevate resource supply and increase the biomass of community members. Finally, we hypothesized that a mixture of litter species would have non‐additive effects on community responses. We followed the system for > 4 months and measured > 30 abiotic and biotic responses related to primary and secondary production. The different species of leaf litter had major effects on abiotic and biotic responses, including phytoplankton, periphyton, zooplankton, snails, amphipods and tadpoles. Most biological responses were negatively associated with soluble carbon content of litter, or litter decay rate. Other litter traits, including phenolic concentrations and litter C:N were of secondary importance but did exhibit both positive and negative associations with several responses. The absence of litter had pervasive effects on abiotic attributes, but did not promote substantial changes in organism biomass. Most responses to the litter mixture were additive. Our results suggest that changes in temperate forest composition can strongly affect pond communities.
Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (LANSS) and Self‐Complete Leeds Assessment of Neuropathic Symptoms and Signs (S‐LANSS) Questionnaires into the Greek Language
Authors: Batistaki Chrysanthi , Lyrakos George , Drachtidi Kalliopi , Stamatiou Georgia , Kitsou Maria‐Chrysanthi , Kostopanagiotou Georgia
Published: April 2015

Background

The LANSS and S‐LANSS questionnaires represent two widely accepted and validated instruments used to assist the identification of neuropathic pain worldwide.

Objective

The aim of this study was to translate, culturally adapt, and validate the LANSS and S‐LANSS questionnaires into the Greek language.

Methods

Forward and backward translations of both questionnaires were performed from the English to Greek language. The final versions were assessed by a committee of clinical experts, and they were then pilot‐tested in 20 patients with chronic pain. Both questionnaires were validated in 200 patients with chronic pain (100 patients for each questionnaire), using as the “gold standard” the diagnosis of a clinical expert in pain management. Sensitivity and specificity of questionnaires were assessed, as well as the internal consistency (using Cronbach's alpha coefficient) and correlation with the “gold standard” diagnosis (using Pearson correlation coefficient).

Results

Sensitivity and specificity of the LANSS questionnaire were calculated to be 82.76% and 95.24%, while for the S‐LANSS 86.21% and 95.24%, respectively. Positive predictive value for neuropathic pain was 96% for the LANSS and 96.15% for the S‐LANSS. Cronbach's alpha was revealed to be acceptable for both questionnaires (0.65 for LANSS and 0.67 for the S‐LANSS), while a significant correlation was observed compared to the “gold standard” diagnosis (rLANSS = 0.79 και tSLANSS = 0.77, respectively, P = 0.01).

Conclusions

The LANSS and the S‐LANSS diagnostic tools have been translated and validated into the Greek language and can be adequately used to assist the identification of neuropathic pain in everyday clinical practice.
Epidemiology of Frequently Occurring Skin Diseases in Italian Children from 2006 to 2012: A Retrospective, Population‐Based Study
Authors: Cantarutti Anna , Donà Daniele , Visentin Federica , Borgia Eleonora , Scamarcia Antonio , Cantarutti Luigi , Peruzzi Elena , Egan Colin Gerard , Villa Marco , Giaquinto Carlo ,   Pedianet
Published: April 2015

Background

Recent estimates indicate an increase in the prevalence of skin diseases in children. Few large epidemiologic studies have examined prevalence trends in Europe. This study evaluated the incidence and prevalence of frequently occurring pediatric skin diseases (PSDs) in Italy as seen by family pediatricians (FPs).

Methods

Data were retrospectively extracted from the Pedianet database (2006–2012) in children ages 0 to 14 years presenting with a skin disease at their FP. The incidence and prevalence estimates were calculated per year and stratified according to sex, age, and geographic area.

Results

A mean of 145,233 children (52.1% male) across five Italian regions were registered with their participating FP for a total of 913,253 person‐years of follow‐up. The majority of patients were from the northeast (44.6%) and 37.7% were ages 5–9 years. Incidence estimates (new cases/1,000 person‐years) for most PSDs increased from 2006 to 2012, the highest being for atopic dermatitis (AD) (14.1 vs 16.5), acute urticaria (10.1 vs 11.6), and contact dermatitis (9.3 vs 10.8), whereas psoriasis remained unchanged over the 7 years (0.61 vs 0.57). In contrast, prevalence estimates (cases/100 patients) increased two to three times for several PSDs, including AD (2.7% vs 8.5%), seborrheic dermatitis (0.5% vs 1.6%), chronic urticaria (0.4% vs 0.8%), and psoriasis (0.09% vs 0.22%). Differences in prevalence according to age range and geographic area were observed for psoriasis, AD, and urticaria.

Conclusion

This study provides comprehensive evidence of the increasing prevalence and incidence of PSDs across Italy. Additional causality studies to address this important clinical and psychosocial problem are recommended.
Respiration, worker body size, tempo and activity in whole colonies of ants
Authors: Mason Keith S. , Kwapich Christina L. , Tschinkel Walter R.
Published: April 2015

Ants are social, and their metabolism should be measured on at least two levels: (i) the individual workers and brood of which the colony is composed and (ii) the colony in its entirety. Whole colony respiration, tempo (size‐free running speed in body lengths per second) and whole colony activity were simultaneously measured for 15 species of ants in four subfamilies, and these data are related to average worker and whole‐colony weight, activity, percentage brood and percentage fat. Across all 15 species, whole colony respiration rate (μL CO2 h−1) is linearly related to whole colony live weight (log–log slope = 1.0). Colonies composed of large workers respire less than colonies composed of an equal live weight of small workers, and colonies with high tempos respire more than lower tempo colonies of equal weight. The tempos and respiration rates of smaller ants tend to be higher, and a higher tempo exacts a cost in higher respiration independent of the effect of small body size. Individual worker respiration (μL CO2 h−1) scales to worker live weight with an exponent of 0.76. Whole colony specific respiration rate (μL CO2 g−1 h−1) is unrelated to colony live weight. The regressions of respiration rates against colony and worker dry weight, lean weight and metabolic weight have similar slopes to those of live weight but different intercepts. Respiration is not related to worker percentage fat, percentage brood or activity. Ant ecology, tempo, body size, polymorphism and colony size are discussed in relation to respiration.
Phenomenal Contrast Arguments for Cognitive Phenomenology
Authors: Chudnoff Elijah
Published: April 2015

According to proponents of irreducible cognitive phenomenology some cognitive states put one in phenomenal states for which no wholly sensory states suffice. One of the main approaches to defending the view that there is irreducible cognitive phenomenology is to give a phenomenal contrast argument. In this paper I distinguish three kinds of phenomenal contrast argument: what I call pure—represented by Strawson's Jack/Jacques argument—hypothetical—represented by Kriegel's Zoe argument—and glossed—first developed here. I argue that pure and hypothetical phenomenal contrast arguments face significant difficulties, but that there is a sound glossed phenomenal contrast argument for irreducible cognitive phenomenology.
Phylogeny, distribution and pathogenicity of Lasiodiplodia species associated with dieback of table grape in the main Brazilian exporting region
Authors: Correia K. C. , Silva M. A. , de Morais M. A. , Armengol J. , Phillips A. J. L. , Câmara M. P. S. , Michereff S. J.
Published: April 2015

Botryosphaeria dieback is an important disease of table grape in the São Francisco Valley, the main Brazilian exporting region. The objectives of this study were to identify species of Lasiodiplodia associated with botryosphaeria dieback of table grapes in the São Francisco Valley, investigate the prevalence and distribution of the species in the region, and evaluate their pathogenicity and virulence in green shoots of table grape. A total of 112 Lasiodiplodia isolates were obtained from 14 vineyards, located in Casa Nova, Juazeiro and Petrolina. Fungal identifications were made using phylogenetic analysis based on partial sequences of translation elongation factor 1‐α (EF1‐α) and internal transcribed spacer (ITS) sequences, in combination with morphometric characteristics of conidia. Eight species of Lasiodiplodia were identified: L. brasiliense, L. crassispora, L. egyptiacae, L. euphorbicola, L. hormozganensis, L. jatrophicola, L. pseudotheobromae and L. theobromae. Except for L. crassispora, L. pseudotheobromae and L. theobromae, all the other species are reported for the first time on grapevine worldwide. The distribution of Lasiodiplodia species differed between the three table grape populations of São Francisco Valley. All Lasiodiplodia species isolated in this study were present in the population of Casa Nova and Lasiodiplodia theobromae was the most prevalent. All species of Lasiodiplodia were pathogenic on detached green shoots of grapevine, with L. brasiliense being the most virulent.
Quality of life of Nepali patients with ear disease before and after corrective surgery
Authors: Maile Edward John , Tharu Puran Bahadur , Blanchford Hannah L. K. , Edmiston Rachel , Youngs Robin
Published: April 2015

Objectives

Hearing impairment is a significant burden in the developing world. However, no suitable quality of life (QoL) measures exist for use in Nepal. We aimed to amend and translate the Glasgow Health Status Inventory (GHSI), assessing QoL at any given time, and the Glasgow Benefit Inventory (GBI), assessing change in QoL following intervention, into Nepali and to assess the impact of ear disease and effect of surgery on QoL.

Methods

The GHSI and GBI were translated into Nepali and independently verified. The GHSI was administered by interview to patients before surgery, and the GBI was administered 6 months after surgery. The Mann–Whitney U‐test was used for hypothesis testing.

Results

The GHSI was administered to 242 patients. In total, 205 had chronic suppurative otitis media (CSOM) without cholesteatoma and 37 had cholesteatoma. The mean GHSI score was 47.9. There was no significant difference in GHSI scores between patients with CSOM without cholesteatoma and those with cholesteatoma. The GBI was administered to 161 patients, 73 of whom had also been in the GHSI group. In total, 130 had CSOM without cholesteatoma, 31 had cholesteatoma. The mean GBI score was +38.4 with no significant difference between disease groups.

Conclusions

Ear disease in Nepal is associated with reduced QoL, and surgical intervention is associated with improved QoL. There is no difference in QoL or benefit following surgery for CSOM between patients with or without cholesteatoma. There are few QoL measures suitable for the developing world. It is essential to invest in these measures to guide health interventions.
Expression of the tetrahydrofolate‐dependent nitric oxide synthase from the green alga Ostreococcus tauri increases tolerance to abiotic stresses and influences stomatal development in Arabidopsis
Authors: Foresi Noelia , Mayta Martín L. , Lodeyro Anabella F. , Scuffi Denise , Correa‐Aragunde Natalia , García‐Mata Carlos , Casalongué Claudia , Carrillo Néstor , Lamattina Lorenzo
Published: April 2015

Nitric oxide (NO) is a signaling molecule with diverse biological functions in plants. NO plays a crucial role in growth and development, from germination to senescence, and is also involved in plant responses to biotic and abiotic stresses. In animals, NO is synthesized by well‐described nitric oxide synthase (NOS) enzymes. NOS activity has also been detected in higher plants, but no gene encoding an NOS protein, or the enzymes required for synthesis of tetrahydrobiopterin, an essential cofactor of mammalian NOS activity, have been identified so far. Recently, an NOS gene from the unicellular marine alga Ostreococcus tauri (OtNOS) has been discovered and characterized. Arabidopsis thaliana plants were transformed with OtNOS under the control of the inducible short promoter fragment (SPF) of the sunflower (Helianthus annuus) Hahb‐4 gene, which responds to abiotic stresses and abscisic acid. Transgenic plants expressing OtNOS accumulated higher NO concentrations compared with siblings transformed with the empty vector, and displayed enhanced salt, drought and oxidative stress tolerance. Moreover, transgenic OtNOS lines exhibited increased stomatal development compared with plants transformed with the empty vector. Both in vitro and in vivo experiments indicate that OtNOS, unlike mammalian NOS, efficiently uses tetrahydrofolate as a cofactor in Arabidopsis plants. The modulation of NO production to alleviate abiotic stress disturbances in higher plants highlights the potential of genetic manipulation to influence NO metabolism as a tool to improve plant fitness under adverse growth conditions.