bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐scale interactions affect tree growth and intrinsic water use efficiency and highlight the importance of spatial context in managing forests under global change
Authors: Ruzicka Kenneth J. , Puettmann Klaus J. , Brooks J. Renée
Published: February 2017

We investigated the potential of cross‐scale interactions to affect the outcome of density reduction in a large‐scale silvicultural experiment to better understand options for managing forests under climate change.

We measured tree growth and intrinsic water‐use efficiency (iWUE) based on stable carbon isotopes (δ13C) to investigate impacts of density reduction across a range of progressively finer spatial scales: site, stand, hillslope position and neighbourhood. In particular, we focused on the influence of treatments beyond the boundaries of treated stands to include impacts on downslope and neighbouring stands across sites varying in soil moisture.

Trees at the wet site responded with increased growth when compared with trees at the dry site. Additionally, trees in treated stands at the dry site responded with increasediWUEwhile trees at the wet site showed no difference iniWUEcompared to untreated stands.

We hypothesized that water is not the primary limiting factor for growth at our sites, but that density reduction released other resources, such as growing space or nutrients to drive the growth response. At progressively finer spatial scales we found that tree responses were not driven by hillslope location (i.e. downslope of treatment) but to changes in local neighbourhood tree density.

Synthesis. This study demonstrated that water can be viewed as an agent to investigate cross‐scale interactions as it links processes operating at coarse to finer spatial scales and vice versa. Consequently, management prescriptions such as density reductions to increase resistance and resilience of trees to climate change, specifically to drought, need to consider cross‐scale interactions as specific magnitude and mechanisms of growth responses can only be predicted when multiple scales are taken into account.
Major shifts in species’ relative abundance in grassland mixtures alongside positive effects of species diversity in yield: a continental‐scale experiment
Authors: Brophy Caroline , Finn John A. , Lüscher Andreas , Suter Matthias , Kirwan Laura , Sebastià Maria‐Teresa , Helgadóttir Áslaug , Baadshaug Ole H. , Bélanger Gilles , Black Alistair , Collins Rosemary P. , Čop Jure , Dalmannsdottir Sigridur , Delgado Ignacio , Elgersma Anjo , Fothergill Michael , Frankow‐Lindberg Bodil E. , Ghesquiere An , Golinska Barbara , Golinski Piotr , Grieu Philippe , Gustavsson Anne‐Maj , Höglind Mats , Huguenin‐Elie Olivier , Jørgensen Marit , Kadziuliene Zydre , Kurki Päivi , Llurba Rosa , Lunnan Tor , Porqueddu Claudio , Thumm Ulrich , Connolly John
Published: February 2017

Increased species diversity promotes ecosystem function; however, the dynamics of multi‐species grassland systems over time and their role in sustaining higher yields generated by increased diversity are still poorly understood. We investigated the development of species’ relative abundances in grassland mixtures over 3 years to identify drivers of diversity change and their links to yield diversity effects.

A continental‐scale field experiment was conducted at 31 sites using 11 different four‐species mixtures each sown at two seed abundances. The four species consisted of two grasses and two legumes, of which one was fast establishing and the other temporally persistent. We modelled the dynamics of the four‐species mixtures, and tested associations with diversity effects on yield.

We found that species’ dynamics were primarily driven by differences in the relative growth rates (RGRs) of competing species, and secondarily by density dependence and climate. The temporally persistent grass species typically had the highestRGRs and hence became dominant over time. Density dependence sometimes induced stabilising processes on the dominant species and inhibited shifts to monoculture. Legumes persisted at most sites at low or medium abundances and persistence was improved at sites with higher annual minimum temperature.

Significant diversity effects were present at the majority of sites in all years and the strength of diversity effects was improved with higher legume abundance in the previous year. Observed diversity effects, when legumes had declined, may be due to (i) important effects of legumes even at low abundance, (ii) interaction between the two grass species or (iii) a store of N because of previous presence of legumes.

Synthesis. Alongside major compositional changes driven byRGRdifferences, diversity effects were observed at most sites, albeit at reduced strength as legumes declined. This evidence strongly supports the sowing of multi‐species mixtures that include legumes over the long‐standing practice of sowing grass monocultures. Careful and strategic selection of the identity of the species used in mixtures is suggested to facilitate the maintenance of species diversity and especially persistence of legumes over time, and to preserve the strength of yield increases associated with diversity.
Interspecific integration of trait dimensions at local scales: the plant phenotype as an integrated network
Authors: Messier Julie , Lechowicz Martin J. , McGill Brian J. , Violle Cyrille , Enquist Brian J.
Published: February 2017

Plant phenotypic diversity is shaped by the interplay of trade‐offs and constraints in evolution. Closely integrated groups of traits (i.e. trait dimensions) are used to classify plant phenotypic diversity into plant strategies, but we do not know the degree of interdependence among trait dimensions. To assess how selection has shaped the phenotypic space, we examine whether trait dimensions are independent.

We gathered data on saplings of 24 locally coexisting tree species in a temperate forest, and examined the correlation structure of 20 leaf, branch, stem and root traits. These traits fall into three well‐established trait dimensions (the leaf economic spectrum, the wood spectrum and Corner's Rules) that characterize vital plant functions: resource acquisition, sap transport, mechanical support and canopy architecture. Using ordinations, network analyses and Mantel tests, we tested whether the sapling phenotype of these tree species is organized along independent trait dimensions.

Across species, the sapling phenotype is not structured into clear trait dimensions. The trait relationships defining trait dimensions are either weak or absent and do not dominate the correlation structure of the sapling phenotype as a whole. Instead traits from the three commonly recognized trait dimensions are organized into an integrated trait network. The effect of phylogeny on trait correlations is minimal.

Our results indicate that trait dimensions apparent in broad‐based interspecific surveys do not hold up among locally coexisting species. Furthermore, architectural traits appear central to the phenotypic network, suggesting a pivotal role for branching architecture in linking resource acquisition, mechanical support and hydraulic functions.

Synthesis. Our study indicates that local and global patterns of phenotypic integration differ and calls into question the use of trait dimensions at local scales. We propose that a network approach to assessing plant function more effectively reflects the multiple trade‐offs and constraints shaping the phenotype in locally co‐occurring species.
The role of glycerol in the pathogenic lifestyle of the rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae
Authors: Foster Andrew J. , Ryder Lauren S. , Kershaw Michael J. , Talbot Nicholas J.
Published: February 2017

The rice blast fungus Magnaporthe oryzae elaborates a specialized cell called an appressorium, which is used to breach the tough outer cuticle of a rice leaf, enabling the fungus entry to host plant cells. The appressorium generates enormous turgor by accumulating glycerol to very high concentrations within the cell. Glycerol accumulation and melanization of the appressorium cell wall collectively drive turgor‐mediated penetration of the rice leaf. In this review, we discuss the potential metabolic sources of glycerol in the rice blast fungus and how appressorium turgor is focused as physical force at the base of the infection cell, leading to the formation of a rigid penetration peg. We review recent studies of M. oryzae and other relevant appressorium‐forming fungi which shed light on how glycerol is synthesized and how appressorium turgor is regulated. Finally, we provide some questions to guide avenues of future research that will be important in fully understanding the role of glycerol in rice blast disease.
Precarity in late life: rethinking dementia as a ‘frailed’ old age
Authors: Grenier Amanda , Lloyd Liz , Phillipson Chris
Published: February 2017

Approaches to ageing that are organised around productivity, success, and active late life have contributed to views of dementia as an unsuccessful, failed or ‘frailed’ old age. Operating through dominant frameworks, socio‐cultural constructs and organisational practices, the ‘frailties’ of the body and mind are often used to mark the boundaries of health and illness in late life, and shape responses accordingly. Our concern is that both the taken for granted and the ‘imagined’ can further marginalise persons who occupy the locations of dementia and disablement. This article analyses the extent to which frailty and dementia are better understood in the context of new forms of insecurity affecting the life course. Drawing on the concept of ‘precarity’, this article shifts debates on the ‘fourth age’ away from age or stage‐based thinking, into a recognition of the shared vulnerability and responsibilities for care. The argument of this article is that ‘precarity’ represents a ‘new form of ageing’, notably as regards its impact on the upper extremes of the life course. The article concludes with a call for a response that is grounded in an acknowledgement of the fragility and limitations which affect human lives, this requiring grounding in inclusive forms of citizenship.
Social class, dementia and the fourth age
Authors: Jones Ian Rees
Published: February 2017

Research addressing social class and dementia has largely focused on measures of socioeconomic status as causal risk factors for dementia and in observed differences in diagnosis, treatment and care. This large body of work has produced important insights but also contains numerous problems and weaknesses. Research needs to take account of the ways in which ageing and social class have been transformed in tandem with the economic, social and cultural coordinates of late modernity. These changes have particular consequences for individual identities and social relations. With this in mind this article adopts a critical gaze on research that considers interactions between dementia and social class in three key areas: (i) epidemiological approaches to inequalities in risk (ii) the role of social class in diagnosis and treatment and (iii) class in the framing of care and access to care. Following this, the article considers studies of dementia and social class that focus on lay understandings and biographical accounts. Sociological insights in this field come from the view that dementia and social class are embedded in social relations. Thus, forms of distinction based on class relations may still play an important role in the lived experience of dementia.
Organizational resilience in national security bureaucracies: Realistic and practicable?
Authors: Dalgaard‐Nielsen Anja
Published: February 2017

Resilience is increasingly highlighted as a necessary organizational property in national security bureaucracies. This article explores the resulting management dilemmas via interviews with Danish executives, who attempt to balance resilience, fiscal austerity and democratic accountability. It concludes that the resilience agenda inspires relevant organizational adjustments, including more external networking and internal resource variety. But austerity limits resilience to budget‐neutral forms, and fear of blame games limits the space for innovation to stay abreast with evolving risks. The article calls for a critical reappraisal of how much resilience to expect from public sector organizations and for more research into the boundary conditions of organizational resilience in the public sector.
Disaster risk reduction and emergency management in prison: A scoping study from New Zealand
Authors: Le Dé Loic , Gaillard JC
Published: February 2017

This research note provides insights on disaster risk reduction (DRR) and emergency management in New Zealand prisons. It draws upon a scoping study that explores the exposure of prisons and identifies vulnerabilities and capacities of prisoners. This study also documents policies and practices for DRR and emergency management. It reveals that increasing awareness at the national level and improved DRR policies and emergency management initiatives may still prove insufficient to deal with increasing exposure and the particular vulnerability of a quickly growing number of inmates. The intrinsic capacities of these inmates also remain untapped. This research note further highlights the critical lack of collaboration between stakeholders of prison management, DRR and emergency management in New Zealand.
A Bird's Eye View of Civilians Killed by Police in 2015
Authors: Nix Justin , Campbell Bradley A. , Byers Edward H. , Alpert Geoffrey P.
Published: February 2017

Research Summary

We analyzed 990 police fatal shootings using data compiled by The Washington Post in 2015. After first providing a basic descriptive analysis of these shootings, we then examined the data for evidence of implicit bias by using multivariate regression models that predict two indicators of threat perception failure: (1) whether the civilian was not attacking the officer(s) or other civilians just before being fatally shot and (2) whether the civilian was unarmed when fatally shot. The results indicated civilians from “other” minority groups were significantly more likely than Whites to have not been attacking the officer(s) or other civilians and that Black civilians were more than twice as likely as White civilians to have been unarmed.

Policy Implications

We implore the U.S. government to move forward with its publication of a national police use‐of‐force database, including as much information about the officers involved as possible. We further suggest police departments use training programs and community activities to minimize implicit bias among their officers.
Indeterminate CT pulmonary angiogram: Why and does it matter?
Authors: Yeo Ju Hee , Zhou Lifeng , Lim Remy
Published: February 2017

Introduction

This study assessed the rate of indeterminate CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA) in a general hospital and evaluated potential contributing factors to an indeterminate CTPA and patients’ eventual clinical outcome.

Methods

Four hundred and three consecutive CTPA and their finalised report from 01/08/2012 to 05/12/2012 at Waitemata DHB were reviewed retrospectively. Patient demographics, scan parameters and average Hounsfield unit (HU) of the main pulmonary trunk (PT) and likely cause of indeterminate study were documented. Studies were categorised into diagnostic, suboptimal or non‐diagnostic studies. Univariate and multiple regression analyses were employed.

Results

Six per cent (n = 24) of the studies were deemed indeterminate which included suboptimal and non‐diagnostic studies. Seven pregnant patients were scanned during the study period and four of the seven studies were deemed indeterminate. In univariate analysis, predictors of indeterminate studies included ‘weight’ (P = 0.022), ‘average HU of PT’ (P < 0.0001) and ‘effective dose’ (P = 0.0003). In the multivariate logistic regression model, only ‘average HU of PT’ was associated with indeterminate studies (OR = 0.99, 95%CI: 0.99, 1.00). Twelve of 24 indeterminate studies had suboptimal pulmonary enhancement with causes including suboptimal timing of contrast bolus, hyperdynamic state due to pregnancy and transient interruption of contrast. Three patients had excessive noise due to body habitus. Eight studies had motion artefacts and one patient had left lower lobe pneumonia which decreased the accuracy. A third of the indeterminate studies were clinically considered as negative by referring clinicians.

Conclusions

Pulmonary trunk average Hounsfield unit is a predictor of indeterminate CT pulmonary angiogram.
Avoiding Fragmentation of Global Financial Governance
Authors: Henning C. Randall
Published: February 2017

Regions of the world have developed an increasing number of financial arrangements to underpin the stability of capital markets and combat crises. But these arrangements vie for influence over international finance with the International Monetary Fund (IMF), as has been dramatically illustrated during the euro crisis, and threatens to fragment global financial governance. This article reviews the regional financial arrangements (RFAs) and their relationships to the IMF, examines the sources of conflict between these institutions, draws lessons from the euro crisis for institutional cooperation, and proposes a set of guidelines and principles to avoid fragmentation of financial governance in the future.
Tracing the origin of a cryptic invader: phylogeography of theEuwallacea fornicatus(Coleoptera:Curculionidae:Scolytinae) species complex
Authors: Stouthamer Richard , Rugman‐Jones Paul , Thu Pham Q. , Eskalen Akif , Thibault Tim , Hulcr Jiri , Wang Liang‐Jong , Jordal Bjarte H. , Chen Chi‐Yu , Cooperband Miriam , Lin Ching‐Shan , Kamata Naoto , Lu Sheng‐Shan , Masuya Hayato , Mendel Zvi , Rabaglia Robert , Sanguansub Sunisa , Shih Hsin‐Hui , Sittichaya Wisut , Zong Shixiang
Published: February 2017

The ambrosia beetle morphologically identified asEuwallacea fornicatusconsists of several cryptic species that exhibit large differences in theDNAsequences of several nuclear and mitochondrial gene regions.

Based on these differences, we suggest that there are at least three different species each with distinct phylogeography.

Members of this cryptic species complex have invaded many areas outside their native range and cause substantial damage to both agriculture (avocado in particular) and other tree species.

Three of these cryptic species have invaded theUSA: two species inCalifornia and a third species in bothFlorida andHawaii.

Identification of their native range allows directed search for their natural enemies that may be used in biological control of these tree pests.
Do Business Relationships Affect the Accuracy of Analyst Earnings Forecasts? Evidence from China
Authors: Wang Shengnian , Wei Chunyan , Han Liang
Published: February 2017

Supporting the “conflicts of interest hypothesis,” we show that, in China, better‐informed analysts issue more optimistically biased forecasts and the reputation of financial analysts mitigates the bias. We contribute to the literature by showing that such an adverse information effect varies over types of investment banking relationships and a better developed local legal environment reduces forecast bias. Our results call for a better developed market mechanism to discipline analysts so as to issue independent and accurate earnings forecasts in China.
Effects of acute controlled changes in end‐tidal carbon dioxide on the diameter of the optic nerve sheath: a transorbital ultrasonographic study in healthy volunteers
Authors: Dinsmore M. , Han J. S. , Fisher J. A. , Chan V. W. S. , Venkatraghavan L.
Published: February 2017

Transorbital ultrasonographic measurement of the diameter of the optic nerve sheath is a non‐invasive, bed‐side examination for detecting raised intracranial pressure. However, the ability of the optic nerve sheath diameter to predict acute changes in intracranial pressures remains unknown. The aim of this study was to examine the dynamic changes of the optic nerve sheath diameter in response to mild fluctuations in cerebral blood volume induced by changes in end‐tidal carbon dioxide. We studied 11 healthy volunteers. End‐tidal carbon dioxide was controlled by a model‐based prospective end‐tidal targeting system (RespirAct™). The volunteers' end‐tidal carbon dioxide was targeted and maintained for 10 min each at normocapnia (baseline); hypercapnia (6.5 kPa); normocapnia (baseline 1); hypocapnia (3.9 kPa) and on return to normocapnia (baseline 2). A single investigator repeatedly measured the optic nerve sheath diameter for 10 min at each level of carbon dioxide. With hypercapnia, there was a significant increase in optic nerve sheath diameter, with a mean (SD) increase from baseline 4.2 (0.7) mm to 4.8 (0.8) mm; p < 0.001. On return to normocapnia, the optic nerve sheath diameter rapidly reverted back to baseline values. This study confirms dynamic changes in the optic nerve sheath diameter with corresponding changes in carbon dioxide, and their reversibly with normocapnia.
The Structured Observation of Motor Performance in Infants has convergent and discriminant validity in preterm and term infants
Authors: Montgomery Cecilia , Hellström Westas Lena , Strand Brodd Katarina , Sonnander Karin , Persson Kristina
Published: February 2017

Aim

Methods are needed to evaluate the level of early motor development and quality of motor performance in infants. We examined the convergent and discriminant validity of the Structured Observation of Motor Performance in Infants (SOMP‐I) for evaluating the level of motor development and quality of motor performance in preterm and term infants.

Methods

A regional cohort of 111 preterm infants with a gestational age of <32 weeks and 72 healthy term born infants were assessed with the SOMP‐I, at two, four, six and 10 months of corrected age. Convergent validity was analysed with a mixed model analysis of the motor performance over time. Discriminant validity was analysed with the Mann–Whitney U‐test in groups with different neonatal characteristics.

Results

Convergent validity was supported, as the level of motor development increased with age and the quality of motor performance improved over time. The method discriminated for both level and quality between the preterm and the term infants. The preterm infants demonstrated different quality deficits regardless of the level of motor development.

Conclusion

Convergent validity and discriminant validity of the SOMP‐I were supported in preterm and term infants and facilitates early identification of infants with atypical motor development.
Randomised clinical trial: the analgesic properties of dietary supplementation with palmitoylethanolamide and polydatin in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Cremon C. , Stanghellini V. , Barbaro M. R. , Cogliandro R. F. , Bellacosa L. , Santos J. , Vicario M. , Pigrau M. , Alonso Cotoner C. , Lobo B. , Azpiroz F. , Bruley des Varannes S. , Neunlist M. , DeFilippis D. , Iuvone T. , Petrosino S. , Di Marzo V. , Barbara G.
Published: February 2017

Background

Intestinal immune activation is involved in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) pathophysiology. While most dietary approaches in IBS involve food avoidance, there are fewer indications on food supplementation. Palmithoylethanolamide, structurally related to the endocannabinoid anandamide, and polydatin are dietary compounds which act synergistically to reduce mast cell activation.

Aim

To assess the effect on mast cell count and the efficacy of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in patients with IBS.

Methods

We conducted a pilot, 12‐week, randomised, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, multicentre study assessing the effect of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin 200 mg/20 mg or placebo b.d. on low‐grade immune activation, endocannabinoid system and symptoms in IBS patients. Biopsy samples, obtained at screening visit and at the end of the study, were analysed by immunohistochemistry, enzyme‐linked immunoassay, liquid chromatography and Western blot.

Results

A total of 54 patients with IBS and 12 healthy controls were enrolled from five European centres. Compared with controls, IBS patients showed higher mucosal mast cell counts (3.2 ± 1.3 vs. 5.3 ± 2.7%, P = 0.013), reduced fatty acid amide oleoylethanolamide (12.7 ± 9.8 vs. 45.8 ± 55.6 pmol/mg, P = 0.002) and increased expression of cannabinoid receptor 2 (0.7 ± 0.1 vs. 1.0 ± 0.8, P = 0.012). The treatment did not significantly modify IBS biological profile, including mast cell count. Compared with placebo, palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin markedly improved abdominal pain severity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The marked effect of the dietary supplement palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin on abdominal pain in patients with IBS suggests that this is a promising natural approach for pain management in this condition. Further studies are now required to elucidate the mechanism of action of palmithoylethanolamide/polydatin in IBS. ClinicalTrials.gov number, NCT01370720.
A population pharmacokinetic model of AT9283 in adults and children to predict the maximum tolerated dose in children with leukaemia
Authors: Duong Janna K. , Griffin Melanie J. , Hargrave Darren , Vormoor Josef , Edwards David , Boddy Alan V.
Published: February 2017

Aims

AT9283 is used to treat patients with solid tumours and patients with leukaemia. However, the maximum tolerated dose (MTD) for children with leukaemia remains unknown due to early termination of the Phase I trial. The aim of this study was to develop a population model of AT9283 to describe the pharmacokinetics in adults and children and to estimate the MTD in children with leukaemia.

Methods

Data from Phase I dose‐escalation studies in adults and children were used to build a population pharmacokinetic model (NONMEM v7.3). Potential covariates investigated included body weight, body surface area (BSA), glomerular filtration rate (GFR), age and sex. Model‐derived area under the concentration–time curve was used to investigate the relationship between dose and exposure in adults and children.

Results

The plasma concentrations of AT9283 (n = 1770) from 92 patients (53 adults, 39 children) were used to build a two‐compartment model with all pharmacokinetic parameters scaled using body weight. Renal function (GFR), but not BSA, was a significant covariate for the clearance of AT9283. In children with leukaemia (median weight 16 kg), a flat dose of 500 mg 72 h–1 provided similar drug exposures at the MTD as the adult population. The estimated MTD for children with leukaemia, therefore, is 30 mg kg−1 72 h–1.

Conclusion

For adults, GFR was a significant predictor of clearance, whilst body‐weight based dosing was more useful than BSA in determining the drug exposure in children. The MTD was estimated to be 30 mg kg−1 72 h–1 children with leukaemia.
Use of Moderate‐Intensity Statins for Low‐Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol Level above 190 mg/dL at Baseline in Koreans
Authors: Kim Hun‐Sung , Lee Hyeseon , Lee Sue Hyun , Jeong Yoo Jin , Kim Tong Min , Yang So Jung , Baik Sun Jung , Kim Hyunah , Lee Seung‐Hwan , Cho Jae Hyoung , Choi In‐Young , Yoon Kun‐Ho , Kim Ju Han
Published: February 2017

The ACC/AHA 2013 guideline recommends high‐intensity statin therapy for a decrease in low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) level by >50% among patients with baseline values of ≥190 mg/dL (approximately 4.872 mmol/L); however, this value should be modified before applying it to Korean populations. We investigated the statin‐specific LDL‐C‐lowering effects in Korean patients with baseline LDL‐C value ≥4.872 mmol/L. Data of patients prescribed a statin for the first time from January 2009 to December 2013 were assessed. In patients with baseline LDL‐C value ≥4.872 mmol/L, laboratory data for a maximum of 6 months from the date of first statin prescription were collected. Among 33,721 patients who were prescribed a statin for the first time, 655 patients had a baseline LDL‐C value ≥4.872 mmol/L (1.9%). Of these, 179 patients were analysed. Patients receiving moderate‐intensity statins were divided into two groups based on LDL‐C reduction rate (p = 0.0002), defined as moderate–high‐intensity (atorvastatin 20 mg, rosuvastatin 10 mg, simvastatin 20 mg) and moderate–low‐intensity (atorvastatin 10 mg, pitavastatin 2 mg, pravastatin 40 mg) statin groups. LDL‐C reduction rates did not significantly differ between the moderate–high‐ and high‐intensity statin groups (p = 0.4895). We found that some moderate‐intensity statins demonstrated a LDL‐C‐lowering effect of more than 50% in Korean patients with a baseline LDL‐C value ≥4.872 mmol/L. Our results reflect the need of a large‐scale, randomized, controlled trial on partial reclassification of statins for patients with baseline LDL‐C value ≥4.872 mmol/L before adopting ACC/AHC guidelines in Korea.
Analysis of categorical moderators in mixed‐effects meta‐analysis: Consequences of using pooled versus separate estimates of the residual between‐studies variances
Authors: Rubio‐Aparicio María , Sánchez‐Meca Julio , López‐López José Antonio , Botella Juan , Marín‐Martínez Fulgencio
Published: February 2017

Subgroup analyses allow us to examine the influence of a categorical moderator on the effect size in meta‐analysis. We conducted a simulation study using a dichotomous moderator, and compared the impact of pooled versus separate estimates of the residual between‐studies variance on the statistical performance of the
Q
B

(P) and
Q
B

(S) tests for subgroup analyses assuming a mixed‐effects model. Our results suggested that similar performance can be expected as long as there are at least 20 studies and these are approximately balanced across categories. Conversely, when subgroups were unbalanced, the practical consequences of having heterogeneous residual between‐studies variances were more evident, with both tests leading to the wrong statistical conclusion more often than in the conditions with balanced subgroups. A pooled estimate should be preferred for most scenarios, unless the residual between‐studies variances are clearly different and there are enough studies in each category to obtain precise separate estimates.
Biology and insights into the role of cohesin protease separase in human malignancies
Authors: Zhang Nenggang , Pati Debananda
Published: February 2017

Separase, an enzyme that resolves sister chromatid cohesion during the metaphase‐to‐anaphase transition, plays a pivotal role in chromosomal segregation and cell division. Separase protein, encoded by the extra spindle pole bodies like 1 (ESPL1) gene, is overexpressed in numerous human cancers including breast, bone, brain, and prostate. Separase is oncogenic, and its overexpression is sufficient to induce mammary tumours in mice. Either acute or chronic overexpression of separase in mouse mammary glands leads to aneuploidy and tumorigenesis, and inhibition of separase enzymatic activity decreases the growth of human breast tumour xenografts in mice. This review focuses on the biology of and insights into the molecular mechanisms of separase as an oncogene, and its significance and implications for human cancers.
Hypoxia‐inducible microRNA‐210 regulates the DIMT1‐IRF4 oncogenic axis in multiple myeloma
Authors: Ikeda Sho , Kitadate Akihiro , Abe Fumito , Saitoh Hirobumi , Michishita Yoshihiro , Hatano Yoshiaki , Kawabata Yoshinari , Kitabayashi Atsushi , Teshima Kazuaki , Kume Masaaki , Takahashi Naoto , Tagawa Hiroyuki
Published: February 2017

Multiple myeloma (MM) is characterized by the accumulation of a population of malignant plasma cells within the bone marrow and its microenvironment. A hypoxic niche is located within the microenvironment, which causes myeloma cells to become quiescent, anti‐apoptotic, glycolytic, and immature. Cell heterogeneity may be related to distinct gene expression profiles under hypoxic and normoxic conditions. During hypoxia, myeloma cells acquire these phenotypes by downregulating interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4), an essential transcription factor in myeloma oncogenesis. To identify essential microRNAs and their targets regulated under hypoxic conditions, we undertook microRNA and cDNA microarray analyses using hypoxia‐exposed primary MM samples and myeloma cell lines. Under hypoxia, only miR‐210 was highly upregulated and was accompanied by direct downregulation of an 18S rRNA base methyltransferase, DIMT1. This inverse expression correlation was validated by quantitative RT‐PCR for primary MM samples. We further determined that DIMT1 has an oncogenic potential as its knockdown reduced tumorigenicity of myeloma cells through regulation of IRF4 expression. Notably, by analyzing gene expression omnibus datasets in the National Center for Biotechnology Information database, we found that DIMT1 expression increased gradually with MM progression. In summary, by screening for targets of hypoxia‐inducible microRNA‐210, we identified DIMT1 as a novel diagnostic marker and therapeutic target for all molecular subtypes of MM.
Using individual‐condition measures to predict the long‐term importance of habitat extent for population persistence
Authors: Cosgrove Anita J. , McWhorter Todd J. , Maron Martine
Published: February 2017

Habitat loss and fragmentation are causing widespread population declines, but identifying how and when to intervene remains challenging. Predicting where extirpations are likely to occur and implementing management actions before losses result may be more cost‐effective than trying to reestablish lost populations. Early indicators of pressure on populations could be used to make such predictions. Previous work conducted in 2009 and 2010 identified that the presence of Eastern Yellow Robins (Eopsaltria australis) in 42 sites in a fragmented region of eastern Australia was unrelated to woodland extent within 500 m of a site, but the robins’ heterophil:lymphocyte (H:L) ratios (an indicator of chronic stress) were elevated at sites with low levels of surrounding woodland. We resurveyed these 42 sites in 2013 and 2014 for robin presence to determine whether the H:L ratios obtained in 2009 and 2010 predicted the locations of extirpations and whether the previous pattern in H:L ratios was an early sign that woodland extent would become an important predictor of occupancy. We also surveyed for robins at 43 additional sites to determine whether current occupancy could be better predicted by landscape context at a larger scale, relevant to dispersal movements. At the original 42 sites, H:L ratios and extirpations were not related, although only 4 extirpations were observed. Woodland extent within 500 m had become a strong predictor of occupancy. Taken together, these results provide mixed evidence as to whether patterns of individual condition can reveal habitat relationships that become evident as local shifts in occupancy occur but that are not revealed by a single snapshot of species distribution. Across all 85 sites, woodland extent at scales relevant to dispersal (5 km) was not related to occurrence. We recommend that conservation actions focus on regenerating areas of habitat large enough to support robin territories rather than increasing connectivity within the landscape.
Association between response rates and survival outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma. A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Mainou Maria , Madenidou Anastasia‐Vasiliki , Liakos Aris , Paschos Paschalis , Karagiannis Thomas , Bekiari Eleni , Vlachaki Efthymia , Wang Zhen , Murad Mohammad Hassan , Kumar Shaji , Tsapas Apostolos
Published: February 2017

Objectives

We performed a systematic review and meta‐regression analysis of randomized control trials to investigate the association between response to initial treatment and survival outcomes in patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma (MM).

Methods

Response outcomes included complete response (CR) and the combined outcome of CR or very good partial response (VGPR), while survival outcomes were overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS). We used random‐effect meta‐regression models and conducted sensitivity analyses based on definition of CR and study quality.

Results

Seventy‐two trials were included in the systematic review, 63 of which contributed data in meta‐regression analyses. There was no association between OS and CR in patients without autologous stem cell transplant (ASCT) (regression coefficient: .02, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.06, 0.10), in patients undergoing ASCT (−.11, 95% CI −0.44, 0.22) and in trials comparing ASCT with non‐ASCT patients (.04, 95% CI −0.29, 0.38). Similarly, OS did not correlate with the combined metric of CR or VGPR, and no association was evident between response outcomes and PFS. Sensitivity analyses yielded similar results.

Conclusions

This meta‐regression analysis suggests that there is no association between conventional response outcomes and survival in patients with newly diagnosed MM.
Midbrain dopaminergic neuron activity across alternating brain states of urethane anaesthetized rat
Authors: Walczak Magdalena , Błasiak Tomasz
Published: February 2017

Midbrain dopaminergic neurons are implicated in the control of motor functions and reward‐driven behaviours. The function of this neuronal population is strongly connected with distinct patterns of firing – irregular or bursting, which either maintains basal levels of dopamine (DA) or leads to phasic release, respectively. Heterogeneity of dopaminergic neurons, observed on both structural and functional levels, is also reflected in different responses of DA neurons to changes in global brain states. Preparation of urethane anaesthetized animal is a broadly used model to study brain state dependent activity of neurons. Unfortunately activity of midbrain DA neurons across urethane induced cyclic, spontaneous brain state alternations is poorly described. To fulfil this gap in our knowledge we have performed simultaneous, extracellular recordings of the firing of single putative DA neurons combined with continuous brain state monitoring. We found that during slow wave activity, the firing rate of recorded putative DA neurons was significantly higher compared to firing rates during activated state, both in ventral tegmental area (VTA) and substantia nigra pars compacta (SNc). In the presence of cortical slow waves, putative dopaminergic neurons also intensified bursting activity, but the magnitude of this phenomena differed in respect to the examined region (VTA or SNc). Our results show that activity of DA neurons under urethane anaesthesia is brain‐state dependent and emphasize the importance of brain state monitoring during electrophysiological experiments.
Research on Crowdfunding: Reviewing the (Very Recent) past and Celebrating the Present
Authors: Short Jeremy C. , Ketchen David J. , McKenny Aaron F. , Allison Thomas H. , Ireland R. Duane
Published: February 2017

Crowdfunding is a rapidly growing phenomenon wherein entrepreneurs seek funding for their entrepreneurial activities from a potentially large audience of interested individuals. Crowdfunding has exploded in popularity over the last decade and now accounts for tens of billions of dollars annually. But despite the importance and growth of crowdfunding, little scholarly knowledge exists about the topic. To address this gap, this special issue includes five articles that each advance knowledge about crowdfunding in important ways. We briefly review past work on crowdfunding in leading entrepreneurship and management journals. We then highlight the diverse contributions offered in the special issue articles.
Hydrophobic domains of mouse polyomavirus minor capsid proteins promote membrane association and virus exit from the ER
Authors: Huérfano Sandra , Ryabchenko Boris , Španielová Hana , Forstová Jitka
Published: February 2017

The minor structural protein VP2 and its shorter variant, VP3, of mouse polyomavirus (MPyV) are essential for virus exit from the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) during viral trafficking to the nucleus. Here, we followed the role of putative hydrophobic domains (HD) of the minor proteins in membrane affinity and viral infectivity. We prepared variants of VP2, each mutated to decrease hydrophobicity of one of three predicted hydrophobic domains: VP2‐mHD1, VP2‐mHD2 or VP2‐mHD3 mutated in HD1 (amino acids (aa) 60–101), HD2 (aa 125–165) or HD3 (aa 287–307), respectively. Transient production of the mutated proteins revealed that only VP2‐mHD2 lost the affinity for intracellular membranes. Cytotoxicity connected with the ability of VP2/VP3 to perforate membranes decreased markedly for VP2‐mHD2, but only slightly for VP2‐mHD1. The mutant VP2‐mHD3 exhibited properties similar to the wild‐type protein. MPyV genomes, each carrying one of the mutations, were prepared for virus production. MPyV‐mHD1 and MPyV‐mHD2 viruses could be isolated, while the HD3 mutation in VP2/VP3 prevented virus assembly. We found that both MPyV‐mHD1 and MPyV‐mHD2 viruses arrived at the ER without delay and were processed by ER residential enzymes. However, the ability to associate with ER membranes was decreased in the case of MPyV‐mHD1 and practically abolished in the case of MPyV‐mHD2. Interestingly, while MPyV‐mHD2 was not infectious, infection of MPyV‐mHD1 virus was delayed. These findings reveal that HD2, common to both VP2 and VP3, is responsible for the membrane binding properties of the minor proteins, while HD1 of VP2 is likely required to stabilize VP2–membrane association and to enhance viral exit from the ER.
Plant life needs cell death, but does plant cell death need Cys proteases?
Authors: Sueldo Daniela J. , van der Hoorn Renier A. L.
Published: February 2017

Caspases are key regulators of apoptosis in animals. This correlation has driven plant researchers for decades to look for caspases regulating programmed cell death (PCD) in plants. These studies revealed caspase‐like activities, caspase‐related proteases, and cysteine (Cys) proteases regulating PCD in plants, but identified no caspases and no conserved, apoptosis‐like death pathway. Here, we critically review the evidence for Cys proteases implicated in PCD in plants. We discuss the role of papain‐like Cys proteases, vacuolar processing enzymes, and metacaspases in PCD during the development of tracheary elements, seed coat, suspensor, and tapetum, and during the hypersensitive response. There are several convincing cases where these Cys proteases are required for PCD, but this requirement is often not conserved across different plant species. There are also cases where Cys proteases contribute to the speed, but not the timing of PCD, while other Cys proteases are nonessential for PCD, but have other roles, e.g., in the clearance of cell remains after PCD. These data illustrate the need for caution when generalizing the role of Cys proteases in regulating PCD in plants, and call for studies that further investigate plant Cys proteases and other PCD regulators.
Aged biochar affects gross nitrogen mineralization and recovery: a 15N study in two contrasting soils
Authors: Mia Shamim , Singh Balwant , Dijkstra Feike A.
Published: February 2017

Biochar is a pyrolysed biomass and largely consists of pyrogenic carbon (C), which takes much longer to decompose compared to the biomass it is made from. When applied to soil, it could increase agricultural productivity through nutrient retention and changing soil properties. The biochar‐mediated nutrient retention capacity depends on the biochar properties, which change with time, and on soil properties. Here, we examined the effects of a wood biochar (20 t ha−1), that has aged (21 months) in a grassland field, on gross nitrogen (N) mineralization (GNM) and 15N recovery using a 15N tracer. A field experiment was conducted in two soil types, that is a Tenosol and a Dermosol, and also included a phosphorus (P) addition treatment (1 kg ha−1). Compared to the control, biochar with P addition significantly increased GNM in the Tenosol. Possibly, biochar and P addition enhanced nutrient availability in this nutrient‐limited soil, thereby stimulating microbial activity. In contrast, biochar addition reduced GNM in the Dermosol, possibly by protecting soil organic matter (SOM) from decomposition through sorption onto biochar surfaces and enhanced formation of organo‐mineral complexes in this soil that had a higher clay content (29% vs. 8% in the Tenosol). Compared to the control, biochar significantly increased total 15N recovery in the Tenosol (on average by 12%) and reduced leaching to subsurface soil layers (on average by 52%). Overall, 15N recovery was greater in the Dermosol (83%) than the Tenosol (63%), but was not affected by biochar or P. The increased N recovery with biochar addition in the sandy Tenosol may be due to retention at exchange sites on aged biochar, while such beneficial effects may not be visible in soils with higher clay content. Our results suggest that aged biochar may increase N use efficiency through reduced leaching or gaseous losses in sandy soils.
Sovereign Reputation and Yield Spreads: A Case Study on Retroactive Legislation
Authors: Randl Otto , Zechner Josef
Published: February 2017

This paper uses recent legislation in Austria to establish a link between sovereign reputation and yield spreads. In 2009, Hypo Alpe Adria International, a bank previously co-owned by the regional government of Carinthia, had been nationalized by Austria’s central government in order to avoid a default triggering multi-billion Euro local government guarantees. In 2015, special legislation retroactively introduced collective action clauses allowing a haircut on both the bonds and the guarantees while avoiding formal default. We document that legislative and administrative action designed to partly abrogate the guarantees resulted in a loss of reputation, leading to higher yield spreads for sovereign debt. Our analysis of covered bonds uncovers an increase in yield spreads on the secondary market and a deterioration of primary market conditions.
Banks’ Interest Rate Risk and Search for Yield: A Theoretical Rationale and Some Empirical Evidence
Authors: Memmel Christoph , Seymen Atılım , Teichert Max
Published: February 2017

We investigate German banks’ exposure to interest rate risk. In finance, higher demand for a risky asset is typically associated with higher expected return. However, employing a utility function which implies both risk-averse and risk-seeking behavior depending on the level of profits, we show that this relationship may get weaker and even change its sign at low profit levels. For the period 2005-14, we find not only the common positive relationship of higher expected returns and rising interest rate exposure but also that this relationship does become weaker with falling operative income, its sign eventually changing.
U‐Pb Geochronological and Thermochronological Time–Temperature Constraints of 40Ar/39Ar Hornblende Reference Material HB3gr
Authors: Blackburn Terrence , McLean Noah , Bowring Samuel A.
Published: February 2017

Hornblende from the Lone Grove Pluton, Llano Uplift, Texas, has served as an irradiation reference material in 40Ar/39Ar studies for decades. In order to evaluate the apparent age bias that currently exists between the U‐Pb and 40Ar/39Ar systems, zircon and titanite were dated by isotope dilution‐thermal ionisation mass spectrometry (ID‐TIMS) from the same rock from which the hornblende 40Ar/39Ar reference material HB3gr is derived. Zircon U‐Pb data indicate initial crystallisation at 1090.10 ± 0.16 Ma (2s), a date that is 1.7% older than the accepted K‐Ar date (1072 ± 14 Ma, 2s) for HB3gr; an offset that exceeds the typical 0.5–1% bias between the two systems, though remaining within uncertainty due to the large uncertainties in the 40K decay constant. Zircon data are presented using both EARTHTIME tracers ET535 and ET2535 and are statistically indistinguishable. Single grain titanite analyses range between 1082 ± 0.75 and 1086 ± 0.81 Ma (2s) and are interpreted to record the subsequent cooling following crystallisation at rates between 30 and 50 °C Ma−1. This is supported by the observation that hornblende 40Ar/39Ar dates corrected for decay constant bias are resolvably younger than the zircon U‐Pb date and in good agreement with titanite U‐Pb dates, permitting the conclusion that both titanite U‐Pb and hornblende 40Ar/39Ar systems provide a record of cooling.