bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Second harmonic generation correlation spectroscopy for characterizing translationally diffusing protein nanocrystals
Authors: Dow Ximeng Y. , Dettmar Christopher M. , DeWalt Emma L. , Newman Justin A. , Dow Alexander R. , Roy-Chowdhury Shatabdi , Coe Jesse D. , Kupitz Christopher , Fromme Petra , Simpson Garth J.
Published: June 2016

Second harmonic generation correlation spectroscopy (SHG-CS) is demonstrated as a new approach to protein nanocrystal characterization. A novel line-scanning approach was performed to enable autocorrelation analysis without sample damage from the intense incident beam. An analytical model for autocorrelation was developed, which includes a correction for the optical scattering forces arising when focusing intense, infrared beams. SHG-CS was applied to the analysis of BaTiO3nanoparticles ranging from 200 to ∼500 nm and of photosystem I nanocrystals. A size distribution was recovered for each sample and compared with the size histogram measured by scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Good agreement was observed between the two independent measurements. The intrinsic selectivity of the second-order nonlinear optical process provides SHG-CS with the ability to distinguish well ordered nanocrystals from conglomerates and amorphous aggregates. Combining the recovered distribution of particle diameters with the histogram of measured SHG intensities provides the inherent hyperpolarizability per unit volume of the SHG-active nanoparticles. Simulations suggest that the SHG activity per unit volume is likely to exhibit relatively low sensitivity to the subtle distortions within the lattice that contribute to resolution loss in X-ray diffraction, but high sensitivity to the presence of multi-domain crystals.
Structural and functional studies of the glycoside hydrolase family 3 β-glucosidase Cel3A from the moderately thermophilic fungusRasamsonia emersonii
Authors: Gudmundsson Mikael , Hansson Henrik , Karkehabadi Saeid , Larsson Anna , Stals Ingeborg , Kim Steve , Sunux Sergio , Fujdala Meredith , Larenas Edmund , Kaper Thijs , Sandgren Mats
Published: June 2016

The filamentous fungusHypocrea jecorinaproduces a number of cellulases and hemicellulases that act in a concerted fashion on biomass and degrade it into monomeric or oligomeric sugars. β-Glucosidases are involved in the last step of the degradation of cellulosic biomass and hydrolyse the β-glycosidic linkage between two adjacent molecules in dimers and oligomers of glucose. In this study, it is shown that substituting the β-glucosidase fromH. jecorina(HjCel3A) with the β-glucosidase Cel3A from the thermophilic fungusRasamsonia emersonii(ReCel3A) in enzyme mixtures results in increased efficiency in the saccharification of lignocellulosic materials. Biochemical characterization ofReCel3A, heterologously produced inH. jecorina, reveals a preference for disaccharide substrates over longer gluco-oligosaccharides. Crystallographic studies ofReCel3A revealed a highly N-glycosylated three-domain dimeric protein, as has been observed previously for glycoside hydrolase family 3 β-glucosidases. The increased thermal stability and saccharification yield and the superior biochemical characteristics ofReCel3A compared withHjCel3A and mixtures containingHjCel3A makeReCel3A an excellent candidate for addition to enzyme mixtures designed to operate at higher temperatures.
Basel II and the associated uncertainties for banking practices
Authors: Rad Alexander
Published: June 2016

Purpose

This paper aims to explore uncertainties in the interaction between Basel II and banking practices.

Design/methodology/approach

The research setting is a centralized bank’s risk control organization and its commercial lending operations. The bank, despite its early adoption of the Basel II Accord, experienced severe credit losses during the global financial crisis. The data consist of interviews with twelve decision-makers and risk specialists at the bank and interviews with four professionals outside the bank after the global financial crisis.

Findings

This paper finds that there are three types of uncertainties in the interaction between Basel II and banking practices. The paper also describes corroborative examples of efforts to reduce such uncertainties. Among such efforts, the decision-makers excluded the risk specialists from decision-making and decentralized decision-making to branch offices.

Research limitations/implications

Although the literature generally portrays bank decision-makers and risk specialists as opposing groups, this research finds that the bank interviewees present complementary and confirmatory accounts on three types of uncertainties.

Practical implications

The findings suggest that increased regulatory pressure have operational implications for banking practices.

Originality/value

The paper has contemporary relevance with its sole focus on credit risk after the transition period provided for Basel II Accord.
The ecology of herbivore‐induced silicon defences in grasses
Authors: Hartley Susan E. , DeGabriel Jane L.
Published: June 2016

Silicon as a defence against herbivory in grasses has gained increasing recognition and has now been studied in a wide range of species, at scales from individual plants in pots to plant communities in the field. The impacts of these defences have been assessed on herbivores ranging from insects to rodents to ungulates. Here, we review current knowledge of silicon mediation of plant–herbivore interactions in an ecological context.

The production of silicon defences by grasses is affected by both abiotic and biotic factors and by their interactions. Climate, soil type and water availability all influence levels of silicon uptake, as does plant phenology and previous herbivory. The type of defoliation matters and artificial clipping does not appear to have the same impact on silicon defence induction as herbivory which includes the presence of saliva. Induction of silicon defences has been demonstrated to require a threshold level of damage, both in the laboratory and in the field. In recent studies of vole–plant interactions, the patterns of induction were found to be quantitatively similar in glasshouse compared with field experiments, in terms of both the threshold required for induction and timing of the induction response.

The impacts of silicon defences differ between different classes of herbivore, possibly reflecting differences in body size, feeding behaviour and digestive physiology. General patterns are hard to discern however, and a greater number of studies on wild mammalian herbivores are required to elucidate these, particularly with an inclusion of major groups for which there are currently no data, one such example being marsupials.

We highlight new research areas to address what still remains unclear about the role of silicon as a plant defence, particularly in relation to plant–herbivore interactions in the field, where the effects of grazing on defence induction are harder to measure. We discuss the obstacles inherent in scaling up laboratory work to landscape‐scale studies, the most ecologically relevant but most difficult to carry out, which is the next challenge in silicon ecology.
Systemic enrichment of antifungal traits in the rhizosphere microbiome after pathogen attack
Authors: Dudenhöffer Jan‐Hendrik , Scheu Stefan , Jousset Alexandre
Published: June 2016

Plant‐associated microbial communities are crucial for plant growth and play an important role in disease suppression. Community composition and function change upon pathogen attack, yet to date, we do not know whether these changes are a side effect of the infection or actively driven by the plant.

Here, we used a split‐root approach to test whether barley plants recruit bacteria carrying antifungal traits upon infestation with Fusarium graminearum. Split‐root systems allow disentangling local infection effects, such as root damage, from systemic, plant‐driven effects on microbiome functionality. We assessed the recruitment of fluorescent pseudomonads, a taxon correlated with disease suppression, and of two well‐described antifungal genes (phlD coding for 2,4‐DAPG and hcnAB coding for HCN).

We show an enrichment of fluorescent pseudomonads, phlD and hcnAB, upon pathogen infection. This effect was only measurable in the uninfected root compartment. We link these effects to an increased chemotaxis of pseudomonads towards exudates of infected plants.

Synthesis. We conclude that barley plants selectively recruited bacteria carrying antifungal traits upon pathogen attack and that the pathogen application locally interfered with this process. By disentangling these two effects, we set the base for enhancing strategies unravelling how pathogens and plant hosts jointly shape microbiome functionality.
Species‐sorting and mass‐transfer paradigms control managed natural metacommunities
Authors: Günther Susanne , Faust Karoline , Schumann Joachim , Harms Hauke , Raes Jeroen , Müller Susann
Published: June 2016

A complex microbial system consisting of six different interconnected localities was thoroughly investigated at full scale for over a year. The metacommunity concept originating from macro‐ecology was used to uncover mechanisms of community assembly by observing microbial interrelationships in and between the different localities via correlation and network analysis. The individual‐based observation approach was applied using high‐throughput microbial community cytometry in addition to next generation sequencing. We found robust α‐diversity values for each of the six localities and high β‐diversity values despite directed connectivity between localities, classifying for endpoint assembly of organisms in each locality. Endpoint characteristics were based on subcommunities with high cell numbers whereas those with lower cell numbers were involved in dispersal. Perturbation caused abiotic parameters to alter local community assembly with especially the rare cells announcing community restructuration processes. The mass‐effect paradigm as part of the metacommunity concept was identified by an increase in interlocality biotic correlations under perturbation which, however, did not unbalance the predominant species‐sorting paradigm in the studied full scale metacommunity. Data as generated in this study might contribute to the development of individual‐based models for controlling managed multispecies natural systems in future.
Development of Natural Insect‐Repellent Loaded Halloysite Nanotubes and their Application to Food Packaging to Prevent Plodia interpunctella Infestation
Authors: Kim Jungheon , Park No‐hyung , Na Ja Hyun , Han Jaejoon
Published: June 2016

The aims of this study were to develop insect‐proof halloysite nanotubes (HNTs) and apply the HNTs to a low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) film that will prevent Plodia interpunctella (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae), commonly known as Indian mealmoth, from infesting the food. Clove bud oil (CO), an insect repellent, was encapsulated into HNTs with polyethylenimine (PEI) to bring about controlled release of CO. Chemical composition and insecticidal effect of CO were examined. The Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectrum of encapsulated CO was confirmed. The surface charges of uncoated HNTs (HNTs/CO) and coated HNTs with PEI by the layer‐by‐layer (LBL) method (HNTs/CO/LBL) were determined to be –37.23 and 36.33 mV, respectively. HNTs/CO/LBL showed slow, controlled release of CO compared to HNTs/CO. After 30 d, the residual amounts of CO in HNTs/CO and HNTs/CO/LBL were estimated to be 13.43 and 28.66 mg/g, respectively. HNTs/CO/LBL showed the most sustainable repellent effect. HNTs applied to gravure printing ink solution did not affect mechanical, optical, or thermal properties of the developed film. Gravure‐printed LDPE film containing HNTs/CO/LBL displayed the greatest preventive effect on insect penetration, indicating its potential for use as insect‐resistant food packaging materials.
Australian‐Asian Sociability, Student Activism, and the University Challenge to White Australia in the 1950s
Authors: Darian‐Smith Kate , Waghorne James
Published: June 2016

During the 1950s, staff, students and graduates of Australian universities were increasingly critical of the racial restrictions on immigration, and their activism contributed to a broader government and community reassessment of the White Australia Policy. Personal experiences of cross‐cultural interactions between Australian students and an increasing number of international students from Asia, including those sponsored by the Australian government's Colombo Plan, underpinned the university challenge to immigration policy. Tertiary curriculum offering new academic interpretations of Asian history and decolonisation also contributed to a growing awareness among university‐educated Australians of Asia, and fostered empathy for its peoples. The publications of the Immigration Reform Group extended this critique of White Australia, and were driven by a moral indignation towards a policy that affected individuals personally known to the critics.
The Renewal of Social Democracy? The Rann Labor Government (2002–11)
Authors: Manwaring Rob
Published: June 2016

Labour governments around the world are struggling to renew labour and social democratic values in the modern era. The South Australian Labor government, led by Mike Rann (2002–11), presents a striking case of a labour government that pursued a renewal of social democracy. By offering a critical examination of the ideological contours of the Rann Government, this paper contributes to wider debates about the flux of social democracy. In Australia, debates about Labor's identity tend to focus on the federal rather than state level, which this article seeks, in part, to redress. The Rann government's economic and social inclusion policies are examined and compared with its South Australian historical forebears, and the Rann government is located within the various labour “traditions”.
Tau‐positive nuclear indentations in P301S tauopathy mice
Authors: Fernández‐Nogales Marta , Santos‐Galindo María , Merchán‐Rubira Jesús , Hoozemans Jeroen J. M. , Rábano Alberto , Ferrer Isidro , Avila Jesús , Hernández Félix , Lucas José J.
Published: June 2016

Increased incidence of neuronal nuclear indentations is a well‐known feature of the striatum of Huntington's disease (HD) brains and, in Alzheimer's disease (AD), neuronal nuclear indentations have recently been reported to correlate with neurotoxicity caused by improper cytoskeletal/nucleoskeletal coupling. Initial detection of rod‐shaped tau immunostaining in nuclei of cortical and striatal neurons of HD brains and in hippocampal neurons of early Braak stage AD led us to coin the term “tau nuclear rods (TNRs).” Although TNRs traverse nuclear space, they in fact occupy narrow cytoplasmic extensions that fill indentations of the nuclear envelope and we will here refer to this histological hallmark as Tau‐immunopositive nuclear indentations (TNIs). We reasoned that TNI formation is likely secondary to tau alterations as TNI detection in HD correlates with an increase in total tau, particularly of the isoforms with four tubulin binding repeats (4R‐tau). Here we analyze transgenic mice that overexpress human 4R‐tau with a frontotemporal lobar degeneration‐tau point mutation (P301S mice) to explore whether tau alteration is sufficient for TNI formation. Immunohistochemistry with various tau antibodies, immunoelectron microscopy and double tau‐immunofluorescence/DAPI‐nuclear counterstaining confirmed that excess 4R‐tau in P301S mice is sufficient for the detection of abundant TNIs that fill nuclear indentations. Interestingly, this does not correlate with an increase in the number of nuclear indentations, thus suggesting that excess total tau or an isoform imbalance in favor of 4R‐tau facilitates tau detection inside preexisting nuclear indentations but does not induce formation of the latter. In summary, here we demonstrate that tau alteration is sufficient for TNI detection and our results suggest that the neuropathological finding of TNIs becomes a possible indicator of increased total tau and/or increased 4R/3R‐tau ratio in the affected neurons apart from being an efficient way to monitor pathology‐associated nuclear indentations.
Fatal familial insomnia: mitochondrial and protein synthesis machinery decline in the mediodorsal thalamus
Authors: Frau‐Méndez Margalida A. , Fernández‐Vega Iván , Ansoleaga Belén , Blanco Tech Rosa , Carmona Tech Margarita , Antonio del Rio Jose , Zerr Inga , Llorens Franc , José Zarranz Juan , Ferrer Isidro
Published: June 2016

The expression of subunits of mitochondrial respiratory complexes and components of the protein synthesis machinery from the nucleolus to the ribosome was analyzed in the mediodorsal thalamus in seven cases of fatal familial insomnia (FFI) compared with age‐matched controls. NDUFB8 (complex I subunit), SDHB (complex II subunit), UQCRC2 (complex III subunit), COX2 (complex IV subunit), and ATP50 (complex V subunit) expression levels, as revealed by western blotting, were reduced in FFI. Voltage‐dependent anion channel (VDAC) and ATP5H were also reduced due to the marked depopulation of neurons. In contrast, a marked increase in superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) was found in reactive astrocytes thus suggesting that astrocytes are key factors in oxidative stress responses. The histone‐binding chaperones nucleolin and nucleoplasmin 3, and histone H3 di‐methylated K9 were markedly reduced together with a decrease in the expression of protein transcription elongation factor eEF1A. These findings show severe impairment in the expression of crucial components of mitochondrial function and protein synthesis in parallel with neuron loss in mediodorsal thalamus at terminal stages of FFI. Therapeutic measures must be taken long before the appearance of clinical symptoms to prevent the devastating effects of FFI.
Patient‐related outcome measures with implant therapy after 5 years
Authors: Tey Valerie H. S. , Phillips Rachel , Tan Ken
Published: June 2016

Objective

To analyze patients’ perception of implant therapy in partial edentulism, after 5 years with implant‐supported reconstructions.

Material and methods

Patients who received dental implants at the National Dental Centre, Singapore 3–9 years earlier (mean: 5.2 years) were invited to participate in the study. Responders were examined clinically, and asked to answer a questionnaire with 13 statements.

Results

Of the 880 patients, 206 patients, with 329 implants, agreed to participate. Of the implants, 82% supported single crowns, while 18% were reconstructed with splinted crowns or fixed dental prostheses. Function and chewing comfort yielded high patient satisfaction. Comparing chewing comfort for teeth and implants, respectively, 51% perceived no difference between the two. Patients were largely satisfied with the phonetic function and esthetic outcome. Only two in three patients were able to cleanse the implant reconstruction well, and majority of the patients reported no difference comparing the time taken to clean implants and teeth. Patients were generally unsure if the tissues around their implants or teeth bled more. Pertaining to expectations, most patients were satisfied with the treatment, and majority were willing to undergo the same treatment again. Most patients would recommend such treatment to friends, if indicated. Only slightly over one‐third of the patients felt certain that the cost of the treatment was justified.

Conclusion

The large majority was satisfied with the functional outcomes of implant treatment. However, the patients had a less than ideal understanding of gingival health around teeth and implants. Patients were less discerning than clinicians in the assessment of esthetic outcomes.
Supportive peri‐implant therapy following anti‐infective surgical peri‐implantitis treatment: 5‐year survival and success
Authors: Heitz‐Mayfield Lisa J. A. , Salvi Giovanni E. , Mombelli Andrea , Loup Pierre‐Jean , Heitz Fritz , Kruger Estie , Lang Niklaus P.
Published: June 2016

Objectives

To evaluate clinical outcomes of supportive peri‐implant therapy (SPIT) following surgical treatment of peri‐implantitis.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐four partially dentate patients with 36 dental implants diagnosed with peri‐implantitis were treated by an anti‐infective surgical protocol followed by regular supportive therapy. SPIT included removal of supra‐ and submucosal biofilm at the treated implants using titanium or carbon fibre curettes, or ultrasonic devices. In addition, professional prophylaxis (calculus/biofilm removal) at other implants/teeth and oral hygiene reinforcement was provided. Clinical measurements and radiographs were obtained at 1, 3 and 5 years. A successful treatment outcome was defined as implant survival with the absence of peri‐implant probing depths (PD) ≥ 5 mm with concomitant bleeding/suppuration and absence of progression of peri‐implant bone loss.

Results

Twelve months after treatment, there was 100% survival of the treated implants and 79% of patients (19 of 24) had a successful treatment outcome according to the defined success criteria. At 3 years, 75% of the patients (18 of 24) had a successful treatment outcome, two patients (8%) were lost to follow‐up (LTF), while 8% lost an implant, and two patients had recurrence of peri‐implantitis. Between 3 and 5 years, an additional two patients were LTF, and an additional two patients each lost one implant. Thus, at 5 years 63% of patients (15 of 24) had a successful treatment outcome. Complete resolution of peri‐implantitis, defined as absence of bleeding at all sites, was achieved in 42% of implants (N = 15) at 5 years.

Conclusion

Five years following regular supportive therapy, the peri‐implant conditions established following peri‐implantitis surgery were maintained in the majority of patients and implants. Some patients had recurrence of peri‐implantitis and some lost implants over the 5‐year period.
Neuroprotective Efficacy of an Aminopropyl Carbazole Derivative P7C3‐A20 in Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Wang Shu‐Na , Xu Tian‐Ying , Wang Xia , Guan Yun‐Feng , Zhang Sai‐Long , Wang Pei , Miao Chao‐Yu
Published: June 2016

Aim

NAMPT is a novel therapeutic target of ischemic stroke. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a potential NAMPT activator, P7C3‐A20, an aminopropyl carbazole derivative, on ischemic stroke.

Methods

In vitro study, neuron protection effect of P7C3‐A20 was investigated by co‐incubation with primary neurons subjected to oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) or oxygen–glucose deprivation/reperfusion (OGD/R) injury. In vivo experiment, P7C3‐A20 was administrated in middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) rats and infarct volume was examined. Lastly, the brain tissue nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD) levels were detected in P7C3‐A20 treated normal or MCAO mice.

Results

Cell viability, morphology, and Tuj‐1 staining confirmed the neuroprotective effect of P7C3‐A20 in OGD or OGD/R model. P7C3‐A20 administration significantly reduced cerebral infarction in MCAO rats. Moreover, brain NAD levels were elevated both in normal and MCAO mice after P7C3‐A20 treatment.

Conclusions

P7C3‐A20 has neuroprotective effect in cerebral ischemia. The study contributes to the development of NAMPT activators against ischemic stroke and expands the horizon of the neuroprotective effect of aminopropyl carbazole chemicals.
Rapid spread of Harmonia axyridis in Chile and its effects on local coccinellid biodiversity
Authors: Grez Audrey A. , Zaviezo Tania , Roy Helen E. , Brown Peter M. J. , Bizama Gustavo
Published: June 2016

Aim

Biological invasions are one of the major threats to biodiversity. Usually highly disturbed anthropogenic habitats favour invasion by alien species such as the coccinellid Harmonia axyridis. The spread and impact of this species has been documented in Europe and North America, but no information exists for South America. The aims of this study were to: (1) document the process of invasion of H. axyridis in Chile, (2) compare the abundance of H. axyridis in different habitats with varying degrees of disturbance and (3) assess change in the coccinellid assemblages in alfalfa fields over the 6 years following invasion.

Location

Chile.

Methods

The spread of H. axyridis was estimated using information from citizen scientists alongside records from the National Pest Surveillance System. The abundance of H. axyridis in different habitat types and of all coccinellids in alfalfa fields was assessed using yellow sticky traps. In alfalfa, the variations in species richness, Shannon and Simpson diversity and equitability indices through time were compared.

Results

Harmonia axyridis has rapidly increased in distribution: there have been 1875 records along 2863 km up to 2015 following the first observation in 2008 from Central Chile. The records span from sea level to 3200 m a.s.l. in the Andes. It has spread at an average rate of 184.8 km per year, preferentially colonizing disturbed habitats, but also invading native habitats. In alfalfa, it is particularly abundant and has become the dominant species, with a concomitant decrease in species richness and diversity of co‐occurring species.

Main conclusion

Citizen science, alongside professional surveillance, has provided an effective method for studying invasion by H. axyridis, which is now well established and distributed across Chile. The rate of spread has been dramatic and the associated changes to the coccinellid community could disrupt the functioning, and ultimately resilience, of invaded ecosystems.
The effect of intraspecific variation and heritability on community pattern and robustness
Authors: Barabás György , D'Andrea Rafael
Published: June 2016

Intraspecific trait variation is widespread in nature, yet its effects on community dynamics are not well understood. Here we explore the consequences of intraspecific trait variation for coexistence in two‐ and multispecies competitive communities. For two species, the likelihood of coexistence is in general reduced by intraspecific variation, except when the species have almost equal trait means but different trait variances, such that one is a generalist and the other a specialist consumer. In multispecies communities, the only strong effect of non‐heritable intraspecific variation is to reduce expected species richness. However, when intraspecific variation is heritable, allowing for the possibility of trait evolution, communities are much more resilient against environmental disturbance and exhibit far more predictable trait patterns. Our results are robust to varying model parameters and relaxing model assumptions.
Sensitive detection of Porphyromonas gingivalis based on magnetic capture and upconversion fluorescent identification with multifunctional nanospheres
Authors: Qin Wei , Zheng Bin , Yuan Yuan , Li Meng , Bai Yang , Chang Jin , Wang Hanjie , Wang Yonglan
Published: June 2016

A specific and sensitive detection system was designed to detect Porphyromonas gingivalis, a major periodontal pathogen, in mixed bacterial fluids. This new detection system was based on the use of fluorescent and magnetic encoding nanospheres that were conjugated with monoclonal antibodies specific to P. gingivalis, thus enabling rapid detection of the target bacterium. This strategy simplifies the detection process and improves the sensitivity compared with conventional methods, with a detection limit of approximately 10 colony‐forming units (CFU) ml−1. This new method shows strong anti‐interference ability and excellent selectivity and specificity to detect P. gingivalis in mixed solutions.
Clinical pathology in equine dermatology
Authors: Sloet van Oldruitenborgh‐Oosterbaan M. M. , Grinwis G. C. M.
Published: June 2016

Clinical pathology is an essential part of the investigation of skin disease in the horse. It is useful to confirm a diagnosis. After a short introduction, skin grooming and scrape, trichogram, adhesive tape technique, cytology, fungal and bacterial cultures, PCR tests, allergy testing and different ways of taking skin biopsies will be discussed.
Inner nuclear membrane protein Lem2 augments heterochromatin formation in response to nutritional conditions
Authors: Tange Yoshie , Chikashige Yuji , Takahata Shinya , Kawakami Kei , Higashi Masato , Mori Chie , Kojidani Tomoko , Hirano Yasuhiro , Asakawa Haruhiko , Murakami Yota , Haraguchi Tokuko , Hiraoka Yasushi
Published: June 2016

Inner nuclear membrane proteins interact with chromosomes in the nucleus and are important for chromosome activity. Lem2 and Man1 are conserved members of the LEM‐domain nuclear membrane protein family. Mutations of LEM‐domain proteins are associated with laminopathy, but their cellular functions remain unclear. Here, we report that Lem2 maintains genome stability in the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe. S. pombe cells disrupted for the lem2+ gene (lem2∆) showed slow growth and increased rate of the minichromosome loss. These phenotypes were prominent in the rich culture medium, but not in the minimum medium. Centromeric heterochromatin formation was augmented upon transfer to the rich medium in wild‐type cells. This augmentation of heterochromatin formation was impaired in lem2∆ cells. Notably, lem2∆ cells occasionally exhibited spontaneous duplication of genome sequences flanked by the long‐terminal repeats of retrotransposons. The resulting duplication of the lnp1+ gene, which encodes an endoplasmic reticulum membrane protein, suppressed lem2∆ phenotypes, whereas the lem2∆ lnp1∆ double mutant showed a severe growth defect. A combination of mutations in Lem2 and Bqt4, which encodes a nuclear membrane protein that anchors telomeres to the nuclear membrane, caused synthetic lethality. These genetic interactions imply that Lem2 cooperates with the nuclear membrane protein network to regulate genome stability.
A comparative evaluation of Eosin‐5′‐maleimide flow cytometry reveals a high diagnostic efficacy for hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Joshi P. , Aggarwal A. , Jamwal M. , Sachdeva M. U. S. , Bansal D. , Malhotra P. , Sharma P. , Das R.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Laboratory diagnosis of hereditary spherocytosis (HS) relies on increased incubated red cell osmotic fragility test for screening. We evaluated the diagnostic role of eosin‐5′‐maleimide (EMA) binding test by flow cytometry in spherocytic and microcytic hypochromic hematological disorders in North Indians.

Methods

EMA binding test using flow cytometry was performed on 55 HS (40 families), 26 iron deficiency anemia (IDA), 32 β‐thalassemia trait (βTT), and 10 autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) cases and 121 normals. Mean channel fluorescence (MCF) and coefficient of variation (CV) were studied. Different MCF parameters (MCF, MCF ratio, percent decrease MCF) and percent increase in CV were analyzed. Receiver operating characteristics analysis was performed to determine best cutoff values, sensitivity, and specificity for discriminating HS from other red cell disorders.

Results

MCF ratio of HS group was significantly lower than normals (0.67 ± 0.07 vs. 1.01 ± 0.05, P < 0.001) and other cases. All patients with HS showed MCF ratio to be ≤0.79. Four postsplenectomy cases with near‐normal hemograms also revealed low MCF ratio, showing the specificity of the test.

Conclusions

EMA assay was efficient to diagnose cases of HS including postsplenectomy cases and shows no overlap with IDA, βTT, and AIHA.
The significance of peripheral blood minimal residual disease to predict early disease response in patients with B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia
Authors: Setiadi A. , Owen D. , Tsang A. , Milner R. , Vercauteren S.
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Minimal residual disease (MRD) assessment in the bone marrow (BM) postinduction therapy is now standard of care in patients with B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia (B‐ALL). We examined the use of peripheral blood as a less invasive means of MRD assessment at days 8 and 15 of induction therapy and established the cutoff level that would allow the most accurate prediction of BM MRD postinduction therapy.

Methods

MRD analysis was performed using 5‐color flow cytometry on BM and PB samples from 77 B‐ALL patients. BM MRD at diagnosis and day 29 of induction therapy was analyzed using the following antibody combinations: CD45‐PC5/CD19‐PC7/CD20‐PE/CD10‐ECD/CD38‐FITC/CD13 + CD33‐PE/CD10‐ECD/CD34‐FITC. PB MRD at days 8 and 15 was determined using CD45‐PC5/CD19‐PC7/CD20‐ECD/CD10‐PE/CD34‐FITC.

Results

Day 8 and day 15 PB MRD levels were significantly higher in patients who had persistent BM MRD at day 29. PB MRD <0.01% at day 8 and/or day 15 predicted negative day 29 BM MRD status with 100% sensitivity but poor specificity. ROC curve analysis showed that day 15 PB MRD level of 0.1% yielded the highest sensitivity (78%) and specificity (82%).

Conclusions

PB MRD cutoff level of 0.1% at day 15 has the best predictive value in determining positive day 29 BM MRD.
Research philosophy in pharmacy practice: necessity and relevance
Authors: Winit-Watjana Win
Published: June 2016

Objective

Pharmacy practice has gradually evolved with the paradigm shifted towards patient-focused practice or medicines optimisation. The advancement of pharmacy-related research has contributed to this progression, but the philosophy of research remained unexplored. This review was thus aimed to outline the succinct concept of research philosophy and its application in pharmacy practice research.

Key findings

Research philosophy has been introduced to offer an alternative way to think about problem-driven research that is normally conducted. To clarify the research philosophy, four research paradigms, i.e. positivism (or empiricism), postpositivism (or realism), interpretivism (or constructivism) and pragmatism, are investigated according to philosophical realms, i.e. ontology, epistemology, axiology and logic of inquiry. With the application of research philosophy, some examples of quantitative and qualitative research were elaborated along with the conventional research approach. Understanding research philosophy is crucial for pharmacy researchers and pharmacists, as it underpins the choice of methodology and data collection.

Conclusions

The review provides the overview of research philosophy and its application in pharmacy practice research. Further discussion on this vital issue is warranted to help generate quality evidence for pharmacy practice.
Predictors of prostate cancer screening intention among older men in Jordan
Authors: Abuadas Mohammad H. , Petro‐Nustas Wasileh , Albikawi Zainab F. , Mari Mohammad
Published: June 2016

Intention to prostate cancer screening (PCS) is one of the major factors affecting the long‐term success of population‐basedPCSprogrammes. The aim of this study is to explore strong factors linked to intention toPCSamong older Jordanian adults using the Health Belief Model (HBM). Data were obtained from Jordanian older adults, aged 40 years and over, who visited a comprehensive health care centre within a ministry of health. A pilot test was conducted to investigate the internal consistency of the Champion Health Belief Model Scale forPCSand the clarity of survey questions. Sample characteristics and rates of participation inPCSwere examined using means and frequencies. Important factors associated with intention toPCSwere examined using bivariate correlation and standard multiple linear regression analysis. About 13% of the respondents were adherent toPCSover the prior decade. Four out of the sevenHBM‐driven factors (perceived susceptibility, benefits and barriers to prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) test, and health motivation) were statistically significant. Those with greater levels of susceptibility, benefits ofPSAtest and health motivation and lower levels of barriers toPSAtesting were having more intention to participate inPCS. Family history, presence of urinary symptoms, age and knowledge about prostate cancer significantly predicted the intention toPCS. Intervention programmes, which lower perceived barriers toPSAtesting and increase susceptibility, benefits ofPSAtesting and health motivation, should be developed and implemented.
The Value of Vocalizing: 10‐Month‐Olds' Vocal Usage Relates to Language Outcomes at 15 Months
Authors: Wu Zhen , Gros‐Louis Julie
Published: June 2016

The interaction between infant's communicative competence and responsiveness of caregivers facilitates the transition from prelinguistic to linguistic communication. It is thus important to know how infants' communicative behavior changes in relation to different caregiver responses; furthermore, how infants' modification of communicative behavior relates to language outcomes. We investigated 39 10‐month‐old infants' communication as a function of mothers' attention and responses and the relationship to language outcomes at 15 months. We elicited infants' communicative behavior in three conditions: (1) joint attention: Mothers were visually attending and responding to infants' attention and interest; (2) available: Mothers were visually attending to infants, but not responding contingently to infants' attention and interest; (3) unavailable: Mothers were not attending to infants nor responding to them. Infants vocalized more when mothers attended and responded to them (conditions 1 and 2) than when mothers did not (condition 3), but infants' gesture and gesture‐vocal production did not differ across conditions. Furthermore, infants' production of a higher proportion of vocalizations in the unavailable condition relative to the joint attention condition correlated with, and predicted, infants' language scores at 15 months. Thus, infants who appear to be aware of the social effects of vocalizations may learn words better.
CREATING THE ENEMY: AMMIANUS MARCELLINUS' DOUBLE DIGRESSION ON HUNS AND ALANS (RES GESTAE 31.2)
Authors: BURGERSDIJK DIEDERIK
Published: June 2016

Ammianus Marcellinus' excursus on the Huns and Alans in the thirty-first and last book of his Res Gestae, in which he creates an image of an enemy that threatens the Roman empire, mainly serves to enhance the suspense in the final part of his narrative. It contains a message to the reigning emperor to defend the borders between barbarism and civilization. The narratological motifs and ideological purposes in the portraiture of foreign peoples, which draw on older Greek as well as Latin ethnographical templates, prevail over historical accuracy. The article addresses the topic from the theoretical framework of alterity, and explores the ethnographical and geographical models on which Ammianus based his largely fictitious account.
Common infections with polyomaviruses and herpesviruses and neuropsychological development at 4 years of age, the Rhea birth cohort in Crete, Greece
Authors: Karachaliou Marianna , Chatzi Leda , Roumeliotaki Theano , Kampouri Mariza , Kyriklaki Andriani , Koutra Katerina , Chalkiadaki Georgia , Michel Angelika , Stiakaki Eftichia , Kogevinas Manolis , Pawlita Michael , Waterboer Tim , de Sanjose Silvia
Published: June 2016

Background

Viral infections of the central nervous system may have detrimental effects for the developing brain, but the effects of less virulent common infections are unclear. We aim to investigate the impact of common viral infections of early childhood on neuropsychological performance of children at age four.

Methods

We used cross‐sectional data on 674 children participating at the 4 years of age follow‐up of the Rhea birth cohort in Crete, Greece. Blood levels of IgG antibodies to 10 polyomaviruses (BKPyV, JCPyV, KIPyV, WUPyV, HPyV6, HPyV7, TSPyV, MCPyV, HPyV9, and HPyV10) and four herpesviruses [Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), cytomegalovirus (CMV), herpes simplex virus‐1 (HSV‐1), and herpes simplex virus‐2 (HSV‐2)] were measured using multiplex serology. Child's neuropsychological development at age four was assessed using the McCarthy Scales of Children's Abilities, the Attention‐Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Test (ADHDT), and the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ). Multiple linear regression models were used to explore the associations.

Results

Seroprevalence to polyomaviruses ranged from 21% for HPyV9 to 82% for HPyV10. Seroprevalence for EBV was 53%, for CMV 26%, for HSV‐1 3.6%, and for HSV‐2 1.5%. Children seropositive to ≥8 polyomaviruses had lower score in ADHDT inattention subscale [β = −1.28 (95% CI: −2.56, −0.001)] and lower score in SDQ hyperactivity–inattention subscale [β = −.99 (95% CI: −1.60, −0.37)] versus children seropositive to ≤3 polyomaviruses. Seropositivity to BKPyV, a potential neurotropic virus, was associated with higher score in ADHDT inattention subscale [β = .87 (95% CI: 0.03, 1.71)].

Conclusions

These findings suggest that acquisition of polyomaviruses during development may influence behavioral outcomes in early childhood.
Resource limitation and responses to rivals in males of the fruit fly Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Mason J. S. , Rostant W. G. , Chapman T.
Published: June 2016

Diet has a profound direct and indirect effect on reproductive success in both sexes. Variation in diet quality and quantity can significantly alter the capacity of females to lay eggs and of males to deliver courtship. Here, we tested the effect of dietary resource limitation on the ability of male Drosophila melanogaster to respond adaptively to rivals by extending their mating duration. Previous work carried out under ad libitum diet conditions showed that males exposed to rivals prior to mating significantly extend mating duration, transfer more ejaculate proteins and achieve higher reproductive success. Such adaptive responses are predicted to occur because male ejaculate production may be limited. Hence, ejaculate resources require allocation across different reproductive bouts, to balance current vs. future reproductive success. However, when males suffer dietary limitation, and potentially have fewer reproductive resources to apportion, we expect adaptive allocation of responses to rivals to be minimized. We tested this prediction and found that males held on agar‐only diets for 5–7 days lost the ability to extend mating following exposure to rivals. Interestingly, extended mating was retained in males held on low yeast/sugar: no sugar/yeast diet treatments, but was mostly lost when males were maintained on ‘imbalanced’ diets in which there was high yeast: no sugar and vice versa. Overall, the results show that males exhibit adaptive responses to rivals according to the degree of dietary resource limitation and to the ratio of individual diet components.
Major histocompatibility complex diversity is positively associated with stream water temperatures in proximate populations of sockeye salmon
Authors: Larson W. A. , Lisi P. J. , Seeb J. E. , Seeb L. W. , Schindler D. E.
Published: June 2016

Local adaptation to heterogeneous environments generates population diversity within species, significantly increasing ecosystem stability and flows of ecosystem services. However, few studies have isolated the specific mechanisms that create and maintain this diversity. Here, we examined the relationship between water temperature in streams used for spawning and genetic diversity at a gene involved in immune function [the major histocompatibility complex (MHC)] in 14 populations of sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) sampled across the Wood River basin in south‐western Alaska. The largest influence on MHC diversity was lake basin, but we also found a significant positive correlation between average water temperature and MHC diversity. This positive relationship between temperature and MHC diversity appears to have been produced by natural selection at very local scales rather than neutral processes, as no correlation was observed between temperature and genetic diversity at 90 neutral markers. Additionally, no significant relationship was observed between temperature variability and MHC diversity. Although lake basin was the largest driver of differences in MHC diversity, our results also demonstrate that fine‐scale differences in water temperature may generate variable selection regimes in populations that spawn in habitats separated by as little as 1 km. Additionally, our results indicated that some populations may be reaching a maximum level of MHC diversity. We postulate that salmon from populations in warm streams may delay spawning until late summer to avoid thermal stress as well as the elevated levels of pathogen prevalence and virulence associated with warm temperatures earlier in the summer.
How common standards can diminish collective intelligence: a computational study
Authors: Morreau Michael , Lyon Aidan
Published: June 2016

Making good decisions depends on having accurate information – quickly, and in a form in which it can be readily communicated and acted upon. Two features of medical practice can help: deliberation in groups and the use of scores and grades in evaluation. We study the contributions of these features using a multi‐agent computer simulation of groups of physicians. One might expect individual differences in members' grading standards to reduce the capacity of the group to discover the facts on which well‐informed decisions depend. Observations of the simulated groups suggest on the contrary that this kind of diversity can in fact be conducive to epistemic performance. Sometimes, it is adopting common standards that may be expected to result in poor decisions.
Isolation of Trueperella pyogenes in a case of thoracic and abdominal abscess in a galago (Otolemur garnettii)
Authors: Salleng Kenneth J. , Burton Bryce J. , Apple Troy M. , Sanchez Susan
Published: June 2016

Background

An adult male galago (Otolemur garnettii) presented for fight wounds following pairing for breeding. Treatment was symptomatic with recovery. Following resolution, the animal re‐presented and died, despite additional treatment.

Methods

Necropsy, histopathology, bacterial cultures, and 16S RNA sequencing.

Results

A large intrathoracic/intra‐abdominal abscess due to Trueperella pyogenes was found at necropsy.

Conclusions

T. pyogenes should be considered in abscesses/wounds of galagos.
Ethics Education in Midwifery Education Programs in the United States
Authors: Megregian Michele
Published: June 2016

Introduction

Familiarity with ethical concepts is a required competency for new graduates and a component of accreditation for midwifery education programs in the United States. While midwifery educators have acknowledged the importance of ethics education in midwifery programs, little is known about current methods, format, or evaluation of ethics education.

Methods

A Web‐based survey was developed for program directors of accredited midwifery education programs in the United States. Clock hours, formats, venues, content topics, barriers, and evaluation methods were evaluated by descriptive analysis.

Results

Fifty‐one percent of programs completed the online survey (25/49). Of these, only 7 (28%) offer ethics as a stand‐alone class, although all responding programs integrate some ethics education into other core classes. Programs show variation in format, venue, resources, and clock hours dedicated to ethics education. The most frequent barrier to ethics education is an already crowded curriculum (60%), although 32% of programs denied any barriers at all. The majority of programs include the ethical concepts of informed consent, shared decision making, and effective communication in curriculum content.

Discussion

This survey found that there is considerable variation in ethics education in terms of content, format, and evaluation among accredited midwifery education programs in the United States. Midwifery educators have an opportunity to explore the ethical dilemmas unique to maternity care from a midwifery perspective. There is also the opportunity to create a comprehensive and dynamic midwifery ethics curriculum, which incorporates both stand‐alone ethics courses and ethics concepts that are woven throughout the core midwifery curriculum.