bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New explanation for elements of Hainan Island's biological assemblage may stretch things a little too far
Authors: Ali Jason R.
Published: April 2017

Recent interpretations of various floral and faunal components on Hainan Island and the nearby parts of mainland east Asia invoke a mid‐Cenozoic plate‐tectonic rifting episode that displaced the landmass ca 220 km south‐eastwards from a postulated former site directly adjacent to the China– Vietnam border. However, having sifted through the relevant geological evidence I contend that this idea is weakly founded. In explaining challenging biogeographical patterns, it is suggested that all of the geo‐physical processes that could have forged the distributions need to be considered.
Tomato‐mediated interactions between root herbivores and aphids: insights into plant defence signalling
Authors: Coppola Valentina , Soler Roxina , Rao Rosa , Corrado Giandomenico
Published: April 2017

Reactions of plants to insect pests include the activation of a local and systemic defence response. This response is based on transcriptional changes that are mainly controlled and coordinated by phytohormones. The above‐ and belowground part of plants can be challenged by different insects and therefore, the defence response to one attacker can influence other insects. The study of plant‐mediated interaction between pests that are physically or temporally separated yielded a variety of outcomes, with positive, negative, and neutral effects described in the literature. In this study, we examined possible plant‐mediated interactions between above‐ and belowground insect pests with different feeding guilds in tomato, Solanum lycopersicum L. (Solanaceae). Root feeding by Agriotes lineatus (L.) (Coleoptera: Elateridae) larvae caused a decrease in the development rate, fertility, and weight in Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae). To gain insights into the plant systemic signalling mechanisms, we also performed a time‐course expression analysis of defence‐related phytohormone marker genes. The result indicated a dynamic systemic response in leaves following root herbivory, which comprises the activation of genes dependent on different molecular pathways involved in plant stress response. Our work demonstrated that root herbivory increased aphid resistance in tomato and that a combination of signals enables the communication between below‐ and aboveground pests with different feeding guilds.
Plant‐based compounds with potential as push‐pull stimuli to manage behavior of leaf‐cutting ants
Authors: Perri Daiana , Gorosito Norma , Fernandez Patricia , Buteler Micaela
Published: April 2017

Leaf‐cutting ants are a serious pest of young forestry plantations. Currently, the main control method is the use of broad‐spectrum insecticides, which have a negative effect on non‐target organisms and the environment. In this work, plant‐based compounds were evaluated in laboratory assays with Acromyrmex ambiguus Emery (Hymenoptera: Formicidae) for their potential use as repellent and attractant stimuli to be used in a push‐pull strategy. Farnesol, a sesquiterpene present in many essential oils, was tested as a repellent at doses of 10, 50, and 100 mg. Its distance of action was studied by comparing the repellent effect of farnesol in a situation in which ants had to touch the farnesol in order to reach the food source in comparison to when ants could reach the food source without getting into direct contact with it. Different parts of the orange fruit (pulp and peel) were evaluated and compared as attractants, given that citrus‐based baits are among the most popular attractants used. Results from laboratory bioassays indicated that farnesol is repellent at doses of 50 mg and acts upon contact or at a very short distance. Furthermore, orange pulp was more attractive than the peel, and volatile compounds were highly responsible for the attraction. When both stimuli were tested simultaneously in a laboratory experiment, repellency of farnesol was enhanced in the presence of orange pulp odor. When tested in a field push‐pull experiment, the results also showed a good repellent effect of farnesol as well as an attractant effect of the orange pulp. These results encourage long‐term studies with these substances in a field setting and suggest that repellents can be enhanced by the use of attractants to manage leaf‐cutting ants behavior.
Comparison between universal adhesives and two‐step self‐etch adhesives in terms of dentin bond fatigue durability in self‐etch mode
Authors: Tsujimoto Akimasa , Barkmeier Wayne W. , Takamizawa Toshiki , Watanabe Hidehiko , Johnson William W. , Latta Mark A. , Miyazaki Masashi
Published: April 2017

This aim of this study was to compare universal adhesives and two‐step self‐etch adhesives in terms of dentin bond fatigue durability in self‐etch mode. Three universal adhesives – Clearfil Universal, G‐Premio Bond, and Scotchbond Universal Adhesive – and three‐two‐step self‐etch adhesives – Clearfil SE Bond, Clearfil SE Bond 2, and OptiBond XTR – were used. The initial shear bond strength and shear fatigue strength of resin composite bonded to adhesive on dentin in self‐etch mode were determined. Scanning electron microscopy observations of fracture surfaces after bond strength tests were also made. The initial shear bond strength of universal adhesives was material dependent, unlike that of two‐step self‐etch adhesives. The shear fatigue strength of Scotchbond Universal Adhesive was not significantly different from that of two‐step self‐etch adhesives, unlike the other universal adhesives. The shear fatigue strength of universal adhesives differed depending on the type of adhesive, unlike those of two‐step self‐etch adhesives. The results of this study encourage the continued use of two‐step self‐etch adhesive over some universal adhesives but suggest that changes to the composition of universal adhesives may lead to a dentin bond fatigue durability similar to that of two‐step self‐etch adhesives.
Genetics and other factors in the aetiology of female pattern hair loss
Authors: Redler Silke , Messenger Andrew G. , Betz Regina C.
Published: April 2017

Pattern hair loss is the most common form of hair loss in both women and men. Male pattern hair loss, also termed male androgenetic alopecia (M‐AGA), is an androgen‐dependent trait that is predominantly genetically determined. Androgen‐mediated mechanisms are probably involved in female pattern hair loss (FPHL) in some women but the evidence is less strong than in M‐AGA; other non‐androgenic pathways, including environmental influences, may contribute to the aetiology. Genome‐wide association studies have identified several genetic loci for M‐AGA and have provided better insight into the underlying biology. However, the role of heritable factors in Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is largely unknown. Recently published studies have been restricted to candidate gene approaches and could not clearly identify any susceptibility locus/gene for FPHL but suggest that the aetiology differs substantially from that of M‐AGA. Hypotheses about possible pathomechanisms of FPHL as well as the results of the genetic studies performed to date are summarized.
Syndecan‐1 regulates dendritic cell migration in cutaneous hypersensitivity to haptens
Authors: Averbeck Marco , Kuhn Stephanie , Bühligen Johannes , Götte Martin , Simon Jan C. , Polte Tobias
Published: April 2017

In human dendritic cells (DCs), we previously demonstrated in vitro that syndecan‐1 (SDC1) is downregulated during maturation correlating with enhanced motility.

We investigated the effects ofSDC1 onDCmigration in vivo duringTNCB(2,4,6‐trinitro‐1‐chlorobenzene)‐induced cutaneous hypersensitivity reaction (CHS) in mice.

We show thatDCinSDC1‐deficient mice migrated faster and at a higher rate to lymph nodes draining the hapten‐painted skin. Adoptive transfer ofSDC1‐deficient hapten‐ and fluorochrome‐labelledDCinto wild‐type (WT) mice led to increased and faster migration ofDCto paracortical lymph nodes, and to a strongerCHScompared toWT DC. InSDC1−/− mice,CCR7 remains longer on theDCsurface within the first 15‐minutes maturation (afterLPS‐induced maturation). In addition, a time‐dependent upregulation ofCCL2,CCL3,VCAM1 and talin was found during maturation inSDC1−/−DC. However, no difference in T‐cell‐stimulating capacity ofSDC1‐deficientDCwas found compared toWT DC. Mechanistically,SDC1‐deficientDCshowed enhanced migration towardsCCL21 andCCL19. This may result from functional overexpression ofCCR7 inSDC1−/−DC. Increased and accelerated migration of otherwise functionally intactSDC1‐deficientDCleads to an exacerbatedCHS. Based on our results, we conclude thatSDC1 onDCnegatively regulatesDCmigration.
PKCι is a target of 7,8,4′‐trihydroxyisoflavone for the suppression of UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression
Authors: Lim Tae‐Gyu , Kim Yoon‐A , Kim Jong‐Eun , Baek Sohee , Lee Sung‐Young , Lee Charles C. , Chen Hanyong , Kim Jong Rhan , Kwon Jung Yeon , Bode Ann M. , Lee Chang Yong , Dong Zigang , Oh Deok‐Kun , Park Jun Seong , Lee Ki Won
Published: April 2017

The soy isoflavone daidzein is bioconverted to 7,8,4′‐trihydroxyisoflavone (7,8,4′‐THIF) by microorganisms. Here, we investigated the matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)‐1 inhibitory properties of 7,8,4′‐THIF that arise through the suppression of UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression. 7,8,4′‐THIF reduced UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression at the transcriptional level in primary human dermal fibroblasts and inhibited UVB‐induced transcriptional activity of AP‐1, a major activator of MMP‐1 expression. Additionally, it was observed that the mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathway, a crucial signalling cascade for MMP‐1 expression, was suppressed by 7,8,4′‐THIF. Protein kinase C iota (PKCι) was suspected to be a direct target of 7,8,4′‐THIF. The direct interaction between 7,8,4′‐THIF and PKCι was confirmed using pull‐down assays and immobilized metal ion affinity‐based fluorescence polarization assays. Finally, we observed that 7,8,4′‐THIF inhibited UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression in a human skin equivalent model. Taken together, these results suggest that 7,8,4′‐THIF, a bioconversion product of daidzein, suppresses UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression.
Bioprinting of biomimetic skin containing melanocytes
Authors: Min Daejin , Lee Wonhye , Bae Il‐Hong , Lee Tae Ryong , Croce Phillip , Yoo Seung‐Schik
Published: April 2017

This study reports a three‐dimensional (3D) bioprinting technique that is capable of producing a full‐thickness skin model containing pigmentation. Multiple layers of fibroblast (FB)‐containing collagen hydrogel precursor were printed and crosslinked through neutralization using sodium bicarbonate, constituting the dermal layer. Melanocytes (MCs) and keratinocytes (KCs) were sequentially printed on top of the dermal layer to induce skin pigmentation upon subsequent air‐liquid interface culture. Histological analysis was performed not only to confirm the formation of distinct skin layers, but also to identify the presence of pigmentation. The bioprinted skin structure showed the dermal and epidermal layers as well as the terminal differentiation of the KC that formed the stratum corneum. Moreover, the MC‐containing epidermal layer showed freckle‐like pigmentations at the dermal‐epidermal junction, without the use of external ultraviolet light or chemical stimuli. The presented method offers the capability of producing engineered ephelides in biomimetic skin, thus rendering 3D bioprinting techniques as productive on‐demand options for the creation of skin models available for therapeutic or research use.
Investigation of Sm2O3 additive on mechanical and electrical properties of Li2O‐ stabilized β″‐alumina electrolyte
Authors: Ahmadi Moghadam Hajar , Paydar Mohammad Hossein
Published: April 2017

Li2O‐ stabilized β″‐alumina was synthesized by the double zeta process. The effect of Sm2O3 additive as the sintering aid, on microstructure, mechanical and electrical properties of Li2O‐ stabilized β″‐alumina ceramics was studied by means of X‐ray diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscope, biaxial flexure test and ionic conductivity measurement. The results indicated that both the fracture strength and the ionic conductivity of the sample containing 0.2 wt% Sm2O3 improved approximately 52% and 54%, respectively, that can be attributed to its higher density, higher amount of β″‐Al2O3 phase and more uniform microstructure.
Application of high‐power ultrasounds during red wine vinification
Authors: Bautista‐Ortín Ana Belén , Jiménez‐Martínez María Dolores , Jurado Ricardo , Iniesta Juan Alberto , Terrades Salvador , Andrés Ana , Gómez‐Plaza Encarna
Published: April 2017

Wine colour is one of the main organoleptic characteristics influencing its quality. It is of special interest in red vinifications due to the economic resources that wineries have to invest for the extraction of the phenolic compounds responsible for wine colour, compounds that are mainly located inside the skin cell vacuoles, where the volatile compounds are also found. The transfer of phenolic compounds from grapes to must during vinification is closely related to the type of grapes and the winemaking technique. During traditional winemaking, grapes are crushed and skin macerated for several days, with pumps overs to facilitate the colour extraction. To increase this extraction, some chemical (maceration enzymes) or physical technologies (thermovinification, cryomaceration, flash‐expansion) can be applied. In this work, a new methodology has been tested. This methodology consists in the application of high‐power ultrasounds to crushed grapes to increase the extraction of phenolic compounds. Crushed grapes were treated with this non‐thermal technology and vinified, with 3, 6 and 8 days of skin maceration time, and the results were compared with a control vinification, where crushed grapes were not subjected to any treatment and were skin macerated during 8 days. The wine chromatic characteristics (determined spectrophotometrically) and the individual phenolic compounds (anthocyanins and tannins, determined by HPLC) were followed during the maceration period, at the end of alcoholic fermentation and after two months in bottle. Also, the wine volatile compounds were determined by GC‐MS. The wines made with ultrasound‐treated grapes showed differences with the control wine, especially regarding total phenol content and tannin content. The wines elaborated with sonicated grapes and with only three days of skin maceration time presented similar concentration of anthocyanins and twice the concentration of tannins than control wines elaborated with 8 days of skin maceration.
Optimization of anode structure for intermediate temperature solid oxide fuel cell via phase‐inversion cotape casting
Authors: Lin Jie , Miao Guoshuan , Xia Changrong , Chen Chusheng , Wang Shaorong , Zhan Zhongliang
Published: April 2017

A functional layer and a porous support that together constitute an anode for a solid oxide fuel cell were simultaneously formed by the phase‐inversion tape casting method. Two slurries, one composed of NiO and yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ) powders and the other of NiO, YSZ, and graphite were cocasted and solidified by immersion in a water bath via the phase‐inversion mechanism. The as‐formed green tape consisted of a sponge‐like thin layer and a fingerlike thick porous layer, derived from the first slurry and the second slurry, respectively. The former acted as the anode functional layer (AFL), while the latter was used as the anode substrate. The AFL thickness was varied between 20 and 60 μm by adjusting the blade gap for the tape casting. Single cells based on such NiO‐YSZ anodes were prepared with thin YSZ electrolytes and YSZ‐(La0.8Sr0.2)0.95MnO3−δ (LSM) cathodes, and their electrochemical performance was measured using air as oxidant and hydrogen as fuel. The maximum power densities obtained at 750°C were 720, 821, and 988 mW cm−2 with the AFL thickness at 60, 40, and 20 μm, respectively. The satisfactory electrochemical performance was attributed to the dual‐layer structure of the anode, where the sponge‐like AFL layer provided plenty of triple‐phase boundaries for hydrogen oxidation, and the fingerlike thick porous substrate allowed for facile fuel transport. The phase‐inversion tape casting developed in this study is applicable to the preparation of other planar ceramic electrodes with dual‐layer asymmetric structure.
Eu2+‐doped strontium aluminum silicon nitrides having α‐SiAlON and polytypoid structures
Authors: Yoshimura Fumitaka , Yamane Hisanori
Published: April 2017

Yellow single crystals of aluminum silicon nitrides containing strontium and europium were prepared by heating starting mixtures of Sr3N2, Si3N4, AlN, and EuN at 2050°C and 0.85 MPa of N2 for 8 hours. Single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction revealed that prismatic crystals 20‐100 μm in size were Sr0.31Al0.62Si11.38N16:Eu (trigonal, a=7.7937(2) Å, c=5.6519(2) Å, space group P31c), which are isotypic with Sr‐α‐SiAlON, Srm/2Alm+nSi12−m−nN16−nOn, with m=0.62 and n=0. The Eu2+ content was approximately 1 at.% of Sr contained in the framework of corner‐sharing (Al/Si)N4 tetrahedra with an occupancy of 0.154(2). Block‐shaped crystals with a side length of 50‐300 μm were a new polytypoid of Sr‐α‐SiAlON, Sr2.97Eu0.03Al6Si24N40. Streak lines were observed in the direction of the c* axis in the X‐ray oscillation photographs, indicating stacking faults of the structure. The fundamental X‐ray reflections were indexed with a hexagonal cell (a=7.9489(3) Å, c=14.3941(6) Å). The structure was analyzed with a model of space group P in which one of the six Al/Si sites was statistically split into two sites with occupancies of 0.673(5) and 0.227(5). The atomic arrangements in the layers of the structure were similar to those of Sr‐α‐SiAlON, but the stacking sequences of the layers were different. The peak wavelengths and full widths at half maximum of emission spectra measured for the single crystals of Sr0.31Al0.62Si11.38N16:Eu and Sr2.97Eu0.03Al6Si24N40 were 583 nm and 87 nm, and 584 nm and 91 nm, respectively, under 400 nm wavelength light excitation at room temperature.
Effects of placebos without deception compared with no treatment: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Charlesworth James E.G. , Petkovic Grace , Kelley John M. , Hunter Monika , Onakpoya Igho , Roberts Nia , Miller Franklin G. , Howick Jeremy
Published: April 2017

Objective

To investigate the clinical efficacy of open‐label placebos compared with no treatment in a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methods

We searched the Cochrane Injuries Group's Specialised Register, The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), Ovid MEDLINE(R) In‐Process & Other Non‐Indexed Citations (OvidSP), EMBASE (OvidSP), and clinical trials registers and screened reference lists. The search was run on 27th April 2015. We included all randomized controlled trials of any medical condition with open‐label placebo and no‐treatment groups. Authors independently assessed records and extracted data. We excluded nonrandomized trials and nonclinical studies. Risk of bias was assessed using Cochrane criteria. We used random‐effects model for meta‐analysis.

Results

We screened 348 publications, assessed 24 articles for eligibility and identified five trials (260 participants) that met inclusion criteria. The clinical conditions were: irritable bowel syndrome, depression, allergic rhinitis, back pain, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder. The risk of bias was moderate. We found a positive effect for nondeceptive placebos (standardized mean difference 0.88, 95% CI 0.62 to 1.14, P < 0.00001, I2 = 1%).

Conclusions

Open‐label placebos appear to have positive clinical effects compared to no treatment. Caution is warranted when interpreting these results due to the limited number of trials identified, lack of blinding, and the fact that positive messages were included alongside open‐label placebos. Larger definitive trials are now warranted to explore the potential patient benefit of open‐label placebos, to investigate the relative contributions of positive suggestions, and ethical implications.
Zinc monotherapy for young children with presymptomatic Wilson disease: A multicenter study in Japan
Authors: Eda Keisuke , Mizuochi Tatsuki , Iwama Itaru , Inui Ayano , Etani Yuri , Araki Mariko , Hara Shinya , Kumagai Hideki , Hagiwara Shin‐Ichiro , Murayama Kei , Murakami Jun , Shimizu Norikazu , Kodama Hiroko , Yasuda Ryosuke , Takaki Yugo , Yamashita Yushiro
Published: April 2017

Background and Aim

Few studies of zinc monotherapy for presymptomatic Wilson disease have focused on young children. We therefore evaluated long‐term efficacy and safety of zinc monotherapy for such children and established benchmarks for maintenance therapy.

Methods

We retrospectively and prospectively examined children under 10 years old with presymptomatic Wilson disease who received zinc monotherapy from time of diagnosis at 12 participating pediatric centers in Japan.

Results

Twenty‐four patients met entry criteria. Aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase decreased significantly beginning 1 month after initiation of treatment and usually remained under 50 U/L from 1 to 8 years of treatment. Twenty four‐hour urinary copper decreased significantly at 6 months and usually remained under 75 μg/day and between 1 and 3 μg/kg/day for the remainder of the study. All patients continued to take zinc, and none became symptomatic. In patients under 6 years old who received 50 mg/day of zinc as an initial dose, aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase significantly decreased at 1 month after initiation of treatment, as did γ‐glutamyltransferase and 24‐h urinary copper at 6 months.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first multicenter study of zinc monotherapy for young children with presymptomatic Wilson disease. Such monotherapy proved highly effective and safe. Maintaining normal transaminase values (or values under 50 U/L when normalization is difficult) and 24‐h urinary copper excretion between 1 and 3 μg/kg/day and under 75 μg/day is a reasonable goal. An initial dose of 50 mg/day is appropriate for patients under 6 years old.
Identifying Drivers of China's Provincial Wastewater Reuse Outcomes Using Qualitative Comparative Analysis
Authors: Jiang Daqian , Fischer Manuel , Huang Zhe , Kunz Nadja
Published: April 2017

In water‐scarce regions of China, wastewater reuse is increasingly considered as a potential component of China's future water resource management strategy. Currently, the percentage of wastewater reuse varies substantially across Chinese provinces, but conditions leading to a high rate of wastewater reuse have not been elucidated clearly. In this work, we use fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) to identify the drivers of high and low percentages of wastewater reuse in water‐stressed Chinese provinces in 2013. We find that among the five conditions studied (per capita water availability, urban population, access to sea, access to urban space, and access to agricultural land), a high percentage of wastewater reuse is primarily driven by water stress and access to urban green space. Consequently, policies should consider targeting provinces with these attributes where wastewater reuse is more likely to be successful. Further, our results show that there is asymmetry in the conditions that lead to high and low percentages of wastewater reuse, and that the drivers for and against reuse identified in this study are not completely analogous to those identified in previous studies. As such, the drivers for and against wastewater reuse should not be generalized without due consideration of the local context.
Disentangling Perceived Norms: Predictors of Unintended Pregnancy During the Transition to Adulthood
Authors: Compernolle Ellen L.
Published: April 2017

Using data from the Relationship Dynamics and Social Life Study, this study examines the role of perceived norms in predicting unintended pregnancy among young women aged 18 to 22 years. First, it compares the relative influence of the content (injunctive [approval] versus descriptive [prevalence]) and referent (parents versus friends) of fertility‐related norms. Second, in identifying entrance into motherhood as an important life course event, particularly during the transition to adulthood, it explores how these influences vary by parity. Third, it tests two potential mechanisms: conformity via internalization and superficial conformity. Findings support injunctive norms: Nonmothers' risk of unintended pregnancy is largely influenced by friends' approval, whereas parents' approval best predicts that of young mothers'. The effects are independent of respondents' own attitudes, suggesting superficial conformity. The study sheds light on how young women's perceptions of what is “normal” among important others influence a consequential early‐life event: becoming a parent.
Who Helps Single Mothers in Nairobi? The Role of Kin Support
Authors: Clark Shelley , Madhavan Sangeetha , Cotton Cassandra , Beguy Donatien , Kabiru Caroline
Published: April 2017

Single mothers often turn to their extended kin for financial assistance and to help with child care. Such support may be especially important in areas of high poverty and poor environmental conditions. Using novel kinship data, this article assesses the extent of support given by more than 3,000 relatives to 462 single mothers living in a slum area of Nairobi, Kenya. Contrary to stereotypes about families in sub‐Saharan Africa, the active kin network of single mothers is relatively small, and nearly a fifth of mothers do not receive any financial or child‐care assistance. Different types of kin offer different kinds of support according to culturally proscribed roles. However, support also depends heavily on kin's employment status, geographic proximity, and age. These findings offer a nuanced picture of how single women living in slum areas draw on their kin network to cope with their daily demands as mothers.
Relational‐Interdependent Self‐Construal and Gender Predicting Blood Pressure Reactivity and Recovery From Stress in Early Adolescence
Authors: Kawabata Yoshito , Tseng Wan‐Ling , Murray‐Close Dianna
Published: April 2017

This study investigated the association between relational‐interdependent self‐construals (relational interdependence) and blood pressure reactivity and recovery from two types of peer stressors (i.e., relational and instrumental) and gender as a moderator of this association. One hundred and ninety‐six early adolescents (M = 10.11 years) reported their relational interdependence and participated in a laboratory stress protocol in which their systolic and diastolic blood pressures before, during, and after experiencing peer stressors were assessed. Results indicated that for males only, those with high relational interdependence showed greater systolic blood pressure reactivity and, at a trend level, impaired recovery from instrumental stressors; females with high relational interdependence showed greater diastolic blood pressure reactivity to relational stressors.
Dryopteris crassirhizomaDryocrassinABBAfor Postharvest Control of the Potato Dry Rot PathogenFusarium solanivar. coeruleum
Authors: Wang Wenzhong , Gao Rui , Bo Zhigang , Chen Lingling , Min Fanxiang , Gao Yunfei , Yang Shuai , Wei Qi , Dong Xuezhi , Lv Dianqiu , Chang Ying
Published: April 2017

Dryopteris crassirhizomadryocrassinABBAtreatment was tested for its effectiveness in controllingFusarium solanivar. coeruleumgrowthin vitroand for prevention of postharvest dry rot of potato tubers and slices. DryocrassinABBAstrongly inhibited mycelial growth, resulting in reductions in both mycelium dry weight and per cent spore germination ofF. solanivar.coeruleumat concentrations of 2.0, 0.5 and 0.1 mg/ml. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) observations showed that treatment induced abnormal, tightly twisted morphological changes in hyphae. Moreover,in vivoexperiments demonstrated that dryocrassinABBAtreatment at 2 mg/mleffectively controlled dry rot of potato tubers inoculated with mycelial discs ofF. solanivar.coeruleum. After dryocrassinABBAtreatment, the content of soluble proteins, peroxidase (POD) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity increased, and malondialdehyde (MDA) content remained the stable situation. In addition, the expression level of plant lipid‐transfer proteins (LTPs) genes –StLTPa1,StLTPa7,StLTPb1andStLTPb3 –was upregulated. These results collectively demonstrate that dryocrassinABBAcan inhibit growth ofFusariumpathogens to induce disease resistance. On the other side, dryocrassinABBAmaybe induce potato defence responses.
Effects of nanocalcium carbonate on egg production performance and plasma calcium of laying hens
Authors: Ganjigohari S. , Ziaei N. , Ramzani Ghara A. , Tasharrofi S.
Published: April 2017

This experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of nanocalcium carbonate (NCC) instead of calcium carbonate (CC) on egg production, egg weight, egg mass, FCR, blood calcium and egg quality characteristics in laying hens. A total of 120 laying hens were used in a 10‐weeks trial, from week 23 to 33 of age. Laying hens were randomly assigned to six treatments with four replications, five hens each. The experimental treatments involved replacing 50% of the CC in the diet by decreasing amounts of NCC and were T1 Basal diet (BD) with 8.06% CC; T2 (6.045% of CC as a negative control); T3 (4.03% of CC replaced by 2.015% NCC); T4 (4.03% of CC replaced by 1.01% NCC); T5 (4.03% of CC replaced by 0.252% NCC) and T6 (4.03 of CC replaced with 0.126%NCC).Egg weight was unaffected by dietary treatments (p > .05). However, the egg production percentage and egg mass in T6 were less than that of other treatments (p < .05). The laying hens in the control group had the best average feed conversion ratio (p < .05). Also, the lowest concentration of calcium in hens’ blood was recorded for birds fed T6 (p < .05). The best egg shell quality (relative egg shell weight and egg shell weight/surface) was observed in T1 (p < .05).Collectively, our results demonstrated that NCC could replace CC at a lower inclusion level but extreme reduction of calcium concentration in diets (to 1.43% Ca in the T6 group) reduced production performance, egg quality characteristics, Tibia thickness and blood calcium of laying hens.
A Supply Chain Perspective on Strategic Foothold Moves in Emerging Markets
Authors: Craighead Christopher W. , Ketchen David J. , Jenkins Matthew T. , Holcomb Mary C.
Published: April 2017

Emerging markets present intriguing growth opportunities, but they are often extremely risky for foreign entrants. Given this riskiness, companies entering emerging markets may establish strategic footholds—small positions that they can later choose to expand (referred to as an attack) or abandon (referred to as a withdrawal)—rather than making costly large‐scale entries. While scholars have begun to examine the competitive dynamics surrounding footholds, the influence of the supply chain has not been considered. This is surprising given that supply chains are key to the daunting task of meeting emerging market demands. To build on extant research, we theorize about how environmental uncertainty (e.g., stemming from factors such as poor infrastructure and political unrest), foothold portability (i.e., how easily the foothold resources can be redeployed in the firm's supply chain), and supply chain knowledge influence (or should influence) firms’ decisions about footholds. This represents a needed step forward in understanding the central role of supply chains in foothold maneuvers in emerging markets. In taking this step, we posit that firms must consider both competitive dynamics and their supply chains or they risk over/under estimating the viability and value of their footholds.
Use of chimeric type IV secretion systems to define contributions of outer membrane subassemblies for contact‐dependent translocation
Authors: Gordon Jay E. , Costa Tiago R. D. , Patel Roosheel S. , Gonzalez‐Rivera Christian , Sarkar Mayukh K. , Orlova Elena V. , Waksman Gabriel , Christie Peter J.
Published: April 2017

Recent studies have shown that conjugation systems of Gram‐negative bacteria are composed of distinct inner and outer membrane core complexes (IMCs and OMCCs, respectively). Here, we characterized the OMCC by focusing first on a cap domain that forms a channel across the outer membrane. Strikingly, the OMCC caps of the Escherichia coli pKM101 Tra and Agrobacterium tumefaciens VirB/VirD4 systems are completely dispensable for substrate transfer, but required for formation of conjugative pili. The pKM101 OMCC cap and extended pilus also are dispensable for activation of a Pseudomonas aeruginosa type VI secretion system (T6SS). Chimeric conjugation systems composed of the IMCpKM101 joined to OMCCs from the A. tumefaciens VirB/VirD4, E. coli R388 Trw, and Bordetella pertussis Ptl systems support conjugative DNA transfer in E. coli and trigger P. aeruginosa T6SS killing, but not pilus production. The A. tumefaciens VirB/VirD4 OMCC, solved by transmission electron microscopy, adopts a cage structure similar to the pKM101 OMCC. The findings establish that OMCCs are highly structurally and functionally conserved – but also intrinsically conformationally flexible – scaffolds for translocation channels. Furthermore, the OMCC cap and a pilus tip protein coregulate pilus extension but are not required for channel assembly or function.
The physiological phosphorylation of tau is critically changed in fetal brains of individuals with Down syndrome
Authors: Milenkovic I. , Jarc J. , Dassler E. , Aronica E. , Iyer A. , Adle‐Biassette H. , Scharrer A. , Reischer T. , Hainfellner J. A. , Kovacs G. G.
Published: April 2017

Aims

Down syndrome (DS) is a common cause of mental retardation accompanied by cognitive impairment. Comprehensive studies suggested a link between development and ageing, as nearly all individuals with DS develop Alzheimer disease (AD)‐like pathology. However, there is still a paucity of data on tau in early DS to support this notion.

Methods

Using morphometric immunohistochemistry we compared tau phosphorylation in normal brains and in brains of individuals with DS from early development until early postnatal life.

Results

We observed in DS a critical loss of physiological phosphorylation of tau. Rhombencephalic structures showed prominent differences between controls and DS using antibodies AT8 (Ser‐202/Thr‐205) and AT180 (Thr‐231). In contrast, in the subiculum only a small portion of controls deviated from DS using antibodies AT100 (Thr‐212/Ser‐214) and AT270 (Thr‐181). With exception of the subiculum, phosphorylation‐independent tau did not differ between groups, as confirmed by immunostaining for the HT‐7 antibody (epitope between 159 and 163 of the human tau) as well.

Discussion

Our observations suggest functional tau disturbance in DS brains during development, rather than axonal loss. This supports the role of tau as a further important player in the pathophysiology of cognitive impairment in DS and related AD.
Age‐associated changes in the blood‐brain barrier: comparative studies in human and mouse
Authors: Goodall E. F. , Wang C. , Simpson J. E. , Baker D. J. , Drew D. R. , Heath P. R. , Saffrey M. J. , Romero I. A. , Wharton S. B.
Published: April 2017

Aims

While vascular pathology is a common feature of a range of neurodegenerative diseases, we hypothesized that vascular changes occur in association with normal ageing. Therefore, we aimed to characterize age‐associated changes in the blood–brain barrier (BBB) in human and mouse cohorts.

Methods

Immunohistochemistry and Evans blue assays were used to characterize BBB dysfunction (tight junction protein expression and serum plasma protein accumulation), vascular pathology (pericyte loss and vascular density) and glial pathology (astrocyte and microglial density) in ageing neurological control human prefrontal cortex (a total of 23 cases from 5 age groups representing the spectrum of young adult to old age: 20–30 years, 31–45 years, 46–60 years, 61–75 years and 75+) and C57BL/6 mice (3 months, 12 months, 18 months and 24 months, n = 5/6 per group).

Results

Quantification of the tight junction protein ZO‐1 within the cortex and cerebellum of the mouse cohort showed a significant trend to both increased number (cortex P < 0.001, cerebellum P < 0.001) and length (cortex P < 0.001, cerebellum P < 0.001) of junctional breaks associated with increasing age. GFAP expression significantly correlated with ageing in the mice (P = 0.037). In the human cohort, assessment of human protein accumulation (albumin, fibrinogen and human IgG) demonstrated cells morphologically resembling clasmatodendritic astrocytes, indicative of BBB dysfunction. Semiquantitative assessment of astrogliosis in the cortex expression revealed an association with age (P = 0.003), while no age‐associated changes in microglial pathology, microvascular density or pericyte coverage were detected.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates BBB dysfunction in normal brain ageing, both in human and mouse cohorts.
CiMYB17, a stress‐induced chicory R2R3‐MYB transcription factor, activates promoters of genes involved in fructan synthesis and degradation
Authors: Wei Hongbin , Bausewein Anja , Greiner Steffen , Dauchot Nicolas , Harms Karsten , Rausch Thomas
Published: April 2017

In Cichorium intybus, inulin metabolism is mediated by fructan‐active enzymes (FAZYs): sucrose:sucrose 1‐fructosyltransferase (1‐SST), fructan:fructan 1‐fructosyltransferase (1‐FFT), and fructan 1‐exohydrolases 1, 2a and 2b (1‐FEH1, ‐2a and ‐2b), respectively. While these enzymes have been rigorously characterized, the transcriptional network orchestrating their development‐ and stress‐related expression has remained largely unknown.

Here, the possible role of R2R3‐MYB transcription factors in FAZY regulation was explored via bioinformatic identification of R2R3‐MYBs (using an RNA sequencing (RNAseq) database), studies of co‐expression of these factors with target genes, in vivo transient transactivation assays of FAZY target promoters (dual luciferase assay), and a yeast one‐hybrid assay investigating the specificity of the binding of these factors to cis‐elements.

The chicory MYB transcription factor CiMYB17 specifically activated promoters of 1‐SST and 1‐FFT by binding to the consensus DNA‐motif DTTHGGT. Unexpectedly, CiMYB17 also activated promoters of fructan exohydrolase genes. The stimulatory effect on promoter activities of sucrose transporter and cell wall invertase genes points to a general role in regulating the source–sink relationship.

Co‐induction of CiMYB17 with 1‐SST and 1‐FFT (and, less consistently, with 1‐FEH1/2) in nitrogen‐starved or abscisic acid (ABA)‐treated chicory seedlings and in salt‐stressed chicory hairy roots supports a role in stress‐induced fructan metabolism, including de novo fructan synthesis and trimming of pre‐existing fructans, whereas the reduced expression of CiMYB17 in developing taproots excludes a role in fructan accumulation under normal growth conditions.
An evaluation of vitamin D levels in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis during pollen season
Authors: Kutluğ Seyhan , Kılıç Mehtap , Bilgici Birşen , Paksu Şule , Yıldıran Alişan , Sancak Recep
Published: April 2017

Background

Serum vitamin D levels have not been studied in children with seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). The aim of this study was to evaluate the vitamin D levels of children with SAR and to compare them to levels in healthy children during pollen season.

Methods

This study was conducted in 100 children with SAR and 100 healthy controls. Clinical and laboratory evaluations and vitamin D analyses of all the participants were performed between the months of April and July. Pollen sensitization was detected in the patient group using a skin prick test. 25(OH)D3 levels were compared between the patient and control groups. Associations among the patient 25(OH)D3 levels and their demographic, clinical, and laboratory characteristics were analyzed.

Results

Overall, 72% of the patients were male, the median age was 12.35 years (range: 6‐17.8 years), and the median body mass index value was 19.15 (range: 13.6‐27.8). There were no differences between the patients and healthy controls in terms of gender, age, or body mass index. The mean levels of 25(OH)D3 (20.78±6) in patients were higher than those of the controls (17.92±4). In the patient group, no associations were found among 25(OH)D3 levels, demographic characteristics, atopy test results, atopy history, severity of rhinitis, and the total four symptoms score (all P>.05).

Conclusions

During pollen season, children with SAR may have higher vitamin D levels than healthy controls. The presence of asthma and/or atopic dermatitis in addition to SAR did not change this result.
Oxidative stress in asthmatic and non‐asthmatic adolescent swimmers—A breathomics approach
Authors: Couto Mariana , Barbosa Corália , Silva Diana , Rudnitskaya Alisa , Delgado Luís , Moreira André , Rocha Sílvia M.
Published: April 2017

We hypothesize that oxidative stress induced by trichloramine exposure during swimming could be related to etiopathogenesis of asthma among elite swimmers.

Aim

To investigate the effect of a swimming training session on oxidative stress markers of asthmatic compared to non‐asthmatic elite swimmers using exhaled breath (EB) metabolomics.

Methods

Elite swimmers annually screened in our department (n=27) were invited and those who agreed to participate (n=20, of which 9 with asthma) had EB collected (Tedlar® bags) before and after a swimming training session. SPME fiber (DVB/CAR/PDMS) was used to extract EB metabolites followed by a multidimensional gas chromatography analysis (GC×GC‐ToFMS). Dataset comprises eight metabolites end products of lipid peroxidation: five aliphatic alkanes (nonane, 2,2,4,6,6‐pentamethylheptane, decane, dodecane, and tetradecane) and three aldehydes (nonanal, decanal, and dodecanal). To assess exercise impact on lipid peroxidation markers, data were analyzed using principle component analysis (PCA), which was run on the original data set and on the data set constructed using differences in the metabolite total areas before and after exercise session.

Results

Heatmap representation revealed that metabolites content decreased after exercise, both for control and asthma groups; however, the greater decrease was observed for controls. Asthmatics and controls did not form separated clusters; however, control swimmers demonstrated a more varied response to the exercise being dispersed along all score plot.

Conclusion

In well‐trained athletes, swimming is associated with a decrease in oxidative stress markers independently of the presence of asthma, although a more pronounced decrease was seen in controls.
Pediatric psoriasis: Should we be concerned with comorbidity? Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kelati Awatef , Baybay Hanane , Najdi Adil , Zinoune Safae , Mernissi Fatima Z
Published: April 2017

Background

Similarly to psoriasis in adults, recent research has linked psoriasis to several comorbidities in children. The aim of this study was therefore to describe comorbidities associated with pediatric psoriasis, to investigate their relationship with psoriasis characteristics and severity, and to perform a review of the literature.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed on a sample of Moroccan children with psoriasis, in 2014–2016.

Results

A total of 64 pediatric psoriasis patients had metabolic comorbidities in association with psoriasis; 20 children had non‐metabolic comorbidities; and 76 children had no comorbidity. The metabolic comorbidities were as follows: abdominal obesity, 40% (n = 64); overweight, 12.5% (n = 20); metabolic syndrome, 3.7% (n = 6); and dyslipidemia, 3.1% (n = 5); the non‐metabolic comorbidities were atopy, 4.3% (n = 7); epilepsy, 3.1% (n = 5); celiac disease, 1.8% (n = 3); vitiligo, 1.8% (n = 3); alopecia ariata, 0.6% (n = 1); and valvular cardiopathy, 0.6% (n = 1). No cases of diabetes mellitus, obesity, or high blood pressure were recorded. Significant factors associated with metabolic comorbidity were extended psoriasis vulgaris >10% (P = 0.01; OR, 2.19), severe psoriasis especially pustular and erythroderma (P = 0.018; OR, 2), nail involvement (P = 0.016; OR, 1.5), face involvement (P = 0.01; OR, 1,59), resistance to topical treatment (P = 0.003; OR, 2.5) and alteration of quality of life (P = 0.02; OR, 1,7). There was no significant risk factor associated with non‐metabolic comorbidity.

Conclusions

Given the frequent association of pediatric psoriasis with many disorders, these comorbidities should be investigated and identified so that they can be taken into account in the management of psoriasis in order to avoid treatment failure. Regular follow up should be carried out in patients at risk of metabolic comorbidity.
Perfusion monitoring and intraventricular hemorrhage in preterm infants
Authors: Ishiguro Akio
Published: April 2017

Cardiovascular instability in preterm infants during the early postnatal period correlates with the development of intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH). Due to the correlation between hypotension and fluctuation of blood pressure, treatment was targeted specifically at hypotension to prevent IVH, but this was not successful. Recently, several novel perfusion markers have been found to be correlated with the development of IVH, and they are of current interest in cardiovascular management. In this review, the correlation between IVH and conventional, as well as novel, perfusion markers is examined.
Support provided by nurses to parents of hospitalized children – cultural adaptation and validation of Nurse Parent Support Tool and initial research results
Authors: Aftyka Anna , Rozalska‐Walaszek Ilona , Wróbel Aleksandra , Bednarek Anna , Dąbek Katarzyna , Zarzycka Danuta
Published: April 2017

Introduction

Child's illness and hospitalisation are difficult and stressful situations both for the patients themselves and for their parents. Supporting the ill child and their guardians is an indispensable element of caring for ill children. The Nurse‐Parent Support Model developed by Margaret Miles is based on four elements, namely emotional support, appraisal support, informational support and instrumental support.

Aim

The aim of the research was (i) cultural adaptation and validation of The Nurse‐Parent Support Tool into Polish and (ii) initial assessment of parents’ perception of nursing support given to the parents of children hospitalised in five paediatric wards in Poland.

Material and method

Quantitative cross‐sectional study was conducted in a group of 195 parents of children hospitalised in five different hospital wards in eastern Poland.

Results and conclusions

Theoretical validity of the four‐factor version ofNPSTis proved by the correlation matrix analysis and inter‐correlation between the dimensions of the described tool as well as the analysis of the internal structure of the test verified on the basis of its internal validity which also confirms its reliability. However, theoretical validity of the test is not confirmed by the factor analysis whose results indicate that the tool encompasses two factors that explain 58.5% of variances. Respondents rated instrumental support provided by the nurses the highest, appraisal and informational support were rated slightly lower, and emotional support was rated the lowest. Negative correlation between the level of stress and emotional support (r = −0.35), informational support (r = −0.29) and support in general (r = −0.30) was demonstrated. Polish four‐factor version ofNPSTis recommended only for international comparative analyses, whereas the use of two‐factor version ofNPSTis recommended for national research programmes. The level of support given to the parents of children hospitalised in Poland seems to be unsatisfactory.