bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Revisiting Darwin's naturalization conundrum: explaining invasion success of non‐native trees and shrubs in southern Africa
Authors: Bezeng Simeon Bezeng , Davies Jonathan T. , Yessoufou Kowiyou , Maurin Olivier , Van der Bank Michelle
Published: April 2015

Invasive species are detrimental ecologically and economically. Their negative impacts in Africa are extensive and call for a renewed commitment to better understand the correlates of invasion success.

Here, we explored several putative drivers of species invasion among woody non‐native trees and shrubs in southern Africa, a region of high floristic diversity. We tested for differences in functional traits between plant categories using a combination of phylogenetic independent contrasts and a simulation‐based phylogenetic anova.

We found that non‐native species generally have longer flowering duration compared with native species and are generally hermaphroditic, and their dispersal is mostly abiotically mediated. We also revealed that non‐native trees and shrubs that have become invasive are less closely related to native trees and shrubs than their non‐invasive non‐native counterparts. Non‐natives that are more closely related to the native species pool may be more likely to possess traits suited to the new environment in which they find themselves and thus have greater chance of establishment. However, successful invaders are less closely related to the native pool, indicating evidence for competitive release or support for the vacant niche theory.

Synthesis. Non‐native trees and shrubs in southern Africa are characterized by a suite of traits, including long flowering times, a hermaphroditic sexual system and abiotic dispersal, which may represent important adaptations promoting establishment. We suggest that differences in the evolutionary distances separating the native species pool from invasive and non‐invasive species might help resolve Darwin's naturalization conundrum.
Increased cardiovascular risk without generalized arterial dilating diathesis in persons who do not have abdominal aortic aneurysm but who are first‐degree relatives of abdominal aortic aneurysm patients
Authors: De Basso Rachel , Sandgren Thomas , Ahlgren Åsa Rydén , Länne Toste
Published: April 2015

There is a strong genetic predisposition towards abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA), but it is unknown whether persons without AAA but with first‐degree relatives who are AAA patients have a generalized dilating diathesis, defect arterial wall mechanics, or increased cardiovascular risk. The aim of the study was to investigate arterial diameters and wall mechanics at multiple arterial sites in these subjects and compare them with controls without a family history of AAA. This study included 118 first‐degree relatives of patients with AAA and 66 controls (age: 40–80 years). The abdominal aorta, common carotid artery, common femoral artery, and popliteal artery were investigated by echo‐tracking ultrasound. The relatives had no arterial dilatation, but they did tend to have smaller diameters than controls. Relatives had a higher heart rate, diastolic blood pressure, and mean arterial pressure than controls. The distensibility coefficient and the compliance coefficient were decreased in all arteries in male relatives, adjusted for age and smoking; these coefficients were normalized after adjustment for mean arterial pressure and heart rate. Female relatives had a lower compliance coefficient in the abdominal aorta, adjusted for age and smoking. After adjustment for mean arterial pressure and heart rate, the difference disappeared. No general arterial dilatation in relatives without AAA was found, supporting the hypothesis that the dilating diathesis is linked to the aneurysmal manifestation in the abdominal aorta. Although the threat of aneurysmal dilatation and rupture seems to be lacking in these subjects, heart rate, blood pressure, and arterial wall stiffness were all increased, which may indicate a higher risk of developing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.
Strategic Monetary–Fiscal Interactions in a Downturn
Authors: Libich Jan , Nguyen Dat Thanh
Published: April 2015

Highly diverse responses of monetary and fiscal policies have been observed around the world in the post global financial crisis period of 2010–2014. While some countries implemented various mixes of monetary and/or fiscal stimuli, others have seen austerity. Our paper explores whether the strategic interaction between the central bank and government can shed some light on this diversity, and what lessons about the institutional design of the two policies can be learnt from it. This is done by mapping a reduced‐form New Keynesian model into a generalised game‐theoretic framework with deterministic and stochastic revisions of policy actions. Our focus is on the short‐term policy interaction regarding stabilisation of an adverse shock (rather than long‐term issues related to fiscal sustainability and unpleasant monetarist arithmetic). Particular attention is paid to the effect of institutional and structural features such as inflation targeting, monetary and fiscal implementation lags, and the policies’ leadership.
Climate Change and Agriculture: Multiple Responses and Responsibilities
Authors: Straujuma Laimdota
Published: April 2015

Climate change is one of the key challenges for the future of agriculture and food. Agriculture both contributes to and suffers from climate change. The interaction between both is of substantial complexity; the need for action is urgent and sometimes stakeholders lack scientific evidence or political will to agree on solutions. There are different lenses through which to address the interface between agriculture and climate change: mitigation, adaptation, resilience, sustainable intensification and civic response. However none of these directions of desirable action would provide the only right answer on their own. There is a need for multiple solutions and aligned action at every governance level involving all actors in the food system: farmers, food industry, consumers and regulatory institutions. Every actor needs to take certain responsibilities. We have to be innovative, responsive and practice solidarity, looking for transition pathways. Recent EU Framework projects and foresight exercises on agriculture provide policymakers with relevant insights and recommendations. This article considers four directions in which responses and shared responsibilities could be enabled to address the climate challenge in agriculture: recognise multiple modernisation pathways; support learning and innovation networks; harness local resources and solutions; and acknowledge ‘quiet’ sustainability. There is reflection on the policy implications at EU, Member State and more local levels.
Interim analysis: An interdisciplinary team approach in facilitating weight reduction and improving function for people with knee or hip osteoarthritis. The Osteoarthritis Chronic Care Program at Royal North Shore Hospital
Authors: Claes Bri‐Ellen Ann , Leung Hei Wan Chloris , Matters Kirilee , Williams Matthew John , Hunter David J
Published: April 2015

Aim

Interim analysis of the Osteoarthritis Chronic Care Program at the Royal North Shore Hospital was conducted in order to determine (i) effectiveness of programme to facilitate reductions in weight and waist circumference and improvements in pain, function and osteoarthritis‐related outcomes and (ii) whether reductions in weight or waist circumference predict pain, functional and osteoarthritis‐related outcomes.

Methods

Participants with knee or hip osteoarthritis at baseline (n = 265), weeks 12 (n = 164) and 26 (n = 88) were followed. Primary outcomes were weight and waist circumference. Secondary outcomes included visual analogue scale for pain, timed up and go, 6‐minute walk test, knee injury/hip dysfunction and osteoarthritis outcome score.

Results

Mean absolute and percent weight loss, waist circumference and body mass index significantly reduced from baseline at both 12 and 26 weeks. Improvements in pain (P < 0.001), timed up and go (P < 0.001) and 6‐minute walk test (P < 0.001) were statistically significant in participants with knee osteoarthritis; however, only improvements in timed up and go and 6‐minute walk test were clinically relevant. Weight was not associated with any secondary outcomes except knee injury and osteoarthritis outcome score pain subscale at 12 weeks. Participants with knee osteoarthritis on average experienced 0.96 cm less pain on the visual analogue scale and walked 25.7 m more in the 6‐minute walk test than participants with hip osteoarthritis at 12 weeks which was statistically significant.

Conclusions

The programme assisted participants in promoting weight loss and those with knee osteoarthritis improved clinically in mobility and walking capacity by 26 weeks. Complete data set is required to validate these findings.
Between rocks and a hard place: prehistoric funerary practices at Wādī Ḍebayʿān, northern Qatar
Authors: Zamora Áurea Izquierdo , Cuttler Richard Thorburn H. , Al‐Naimi Faisal Abdulla , Owens Lawrence S.
Published: April 2015

Archaeological survey by the Qatar National Historic Environment Record Project (QNHER) in 2009, led to the discovery of a Neolithic flint scatter, a settlement and an ancient, raised shoreline associated with higher, mid‐Holocene sea levels at Wādī Ḍebayʿān, north‐western Qatar (Al‐Naimi et al. 2010, 2011; Cuttler, Tetlow & Al‐Naimi 2011). The QNHER project is a collaboration between Qatar Museums and the University of Birmingham, which over the past five years has developed a national geospatial database for the recording of archaeological sites and historic monuments in Qatar. A significant aspect of the project involved archaeological survey and excavation in advance of major construction projects. Between 2012 and 2014 excavations at Wādī Ḍebayʿān revealed a burial of a typology previously unknown in Qatar, the unmarked graves (Cuttler, Al‐Naimi & Tetlow 2013).
Why do analysts issue forecast revisions inconsistent with prior stock returns? Determinants and consequences
Authors: Dong Xiaobo , Lin Kuan‐Chen , Graham Roger
Published: April 2015

We examine the informativeness of analyst forecast revisions that are directionally inconsistent with prior stock price movements (sign‐inconsistent revisions). Sign‐inconsistent revisions represent approximately one‐half of the forecast revisions from 1995 through 2010. Our tests indicate that sign‐inconsistent revisions are less informative than are sign‐consistent revisions. Sign‐inconsistent revisions are less likely to be closer to actual earnings realizations and they generate smaller stock price reactions. We also find evidence that sign‐inconsistent revisions are associated with analysts' economic incentives to generate trading volume and their behavioural limitations related to information uncertainty. These results suggest that sign‐inconsistent revisions do not necessarily benefit investors.
Predictors of re‐excision in wire‐guided wide local excision for early breast cancer: a Western Australian multi‐centre experience
Authors: Ballal Helen , Taylor Donna B. , Bourke Anita G. , Latham Bruce , Saunders Christobel M.
Published: April 2015

Background

A significant proportion of breast cancers present as impalpable lesions requiring radiological guidance prior to surgical excision, commonly by hook‐wire placement. Complete lesion excision is an essential part of treatment, and re‐excision may be needed to ensure this and minimize local recurrence. We explore a 1‐year audit of re‐excision of hook‐wire‐guided excisions in two large public breast units in Western Australia and define factors associated with the requirement for re‐excision.

Methods

A retrospective review of wire‐localized wide local excisions for early breast cancer in 2009 at two tertiary breast centres in Western Australia.

Results

Of 148 localized lesions, 44 (30%) underwent re‐excision. The only significant preoperative finding was the location of tumour in the breast. The intra‐operative specimen radiograph provided useful information that influenced re‐excision. Smaller (≤5 mm) and larger (>20 mm) tumours on final pathological size were more likely to undergo re‐excision as well as a larger difference in actual size to predicted size. The presence of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) increased re‐operation, as did multifocality.

Conclusion

This study highlights factors that should make the surgeon more cautious for re‐excision. Suspicion of DCIS, especially at the periphery of tumours, and a central tumour location increase risk. Lesion localization techniques play an important role in minimizing risk while maintaining cosmesis.
Risk factors, treatment and impact on outcomes of bile leakage after hemihepatectomy
Authors: Zheng Si‐Ming , Li Hong , Li Gen‐Cong , Yu Dan‐Song , Ying Dong‐Jian , Zhang Bin , Lu Cai‐De , Zhou Xin‐Hua
Published: April 2015

Background

Risk factors for bile leakage after hemihepatectomy are unknown.

Methods

A prospectively maintained database review identified patients undergoing hemihepatectomy between 1 January 2009 and 30 September 2014. Patients were divided into B/C and non‐B/C bile leakage groups. Risk factors for bile leakage were predicted and assessments of their impact on patients were made.

Results

Bile leakage occurred in 91 of the 297 patients (30.6%); 64 cases were classified as grade B bile leakage (21.5%) and three cases as grade C bile leakage (1.0%). Multivariate analysis confirmed that elevated preoperative alanine transaminase (ALT), positive bile culture during surgery, hilar bile duct plasty, bilioenteric anastomosis and laparoscopic surgery were risk factors for B/C grade bile leakage (P < 0.05). Percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) and endoscopic nasobiliary drainage (ENBD) were protective factors for B/C grade bile leakage (P < 0.05). PTBD, ENBD and Kehr's T‐tube drainage could reduce the drainage volume and duration of drainage after bile leakage (P < 0.05). The incidence of wound infection, abdominal infection, major complications and the Clavien classification system score in the B/C bile leakage group were higher than those in the non‐B/C bile leakage group (P < 0.05). Patients in the B/C bile leakage group also required prolonged hospitalization (P < 0.05). The mortality of two groups was similar (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Patient with elevated preoperative ALT, positive bile cultures during surgery, hilar bile duct plasty, bilioenteric anastomosis and laparoscopic surgery are more likely to complicate bile leakage. We should use biliary drainage such as preoperative PTBD, ENBD or intraoperative Kehr's T‐tube drainage to reduce and treat bile leakage in patients with high risk of bile leakage.
Dependence of diameters and oxygen saturation of retinal vessels on visual field damage and age in primary open‐angle glaucoma
Authors: Ramm Lisa , Jentsch Susanne , Peters Sven , Sauer Lydia , Augsten Regine , Hammer Martin
Published: April 2015

Purpose

To investigate the interrelationship between the oxygen supply of the retina and its regulation with the severity of primary open‐angle glaucoma (POAG).

Methods

Central retinal artery (CRAE) and vein (CRVE) diameters and oxygen saturation of peripapillary retinal vessels in 41 patients suffering from POAG (64.1 ± 12.9 years) and 40 healthy volunteers (63.6 ± 14.1 years) were measured using the retinal vessel analyzer. All measures were taken before and during flicker light stimulation. The mean retinal nerve fiber layer thickness (RNFLT) was determined by OCT and the visual field mean defect (MD) was identified using perimetry.

Results

In glaucoma patients, CRAE (r = −0.48 p = 0.002) and CRVE (r = −0.394 p = 0.014) at baseline were inversely related to MD, while arterial and venous oxygen saturation showed no significant dependence on the severity of the damage. However, the flicker light‐induced change in arterio‐venous difference in oxygen saturation was correlated with the MD (r = 0.358 p = 0.027). The diameters of arteries and veins at baseline decreased with reduction of the mean RNFLT (arteries: r = 0.718 p < 0.001; veins: r = 0.685 p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Vessel diameters showed a strong correlation with RNFLT and MD. This, as well as the reduction of stimulation‐induced change in arterio‐venous oxygen saturation difference with visual field loss, may be explained by a reduction of the retinal metabolic demand with progressive loss of neuronal tissue in glaucoma.
The results of cytoreductive surgery and hyperthermic intraperitoneal chemotherapy in 1200 patients with peritoneal malignancy
Authors: Moran B. , Cecil T. , Chandrakumaran K. , Arnold S. , Mohamed F. , Venkatasubramaniam A.
Published: April 2015

Aim

The study determined the outcome of 1200 consecutive patients treated for peritoneal malignancy in one surgical unit over a 20‐year period.

Method

A retrospective analysis was conducted of a custom designed prospective database of patients undergoing surgery for peritoneal malignancy since 1994. Patient demographics, tumour type, extent of surgery and outcome were recorded.

Results

Between 1994 and January 2014 (when the 1200th case had undergone surgery) 2956 patients were referred with a diagnosis of peritoneal malignancy. Pseudomyxoma peritonei of appendiceal origin was the pathology in 956/1200 (79.7%) patients. Other aetiologies included colorectal peritoneal metastases [89/1200 (7.4%)], abdominal mesothelioma [65/1200 (5.4%)] and miscellaneous [90/1200 (7.5%)]. Overall 863/1200 (71.9%) had complete cytoreduction, 294 (24.5%) had maximal tumour debulking and 43 (3.6%) had laparotomy only. The proportion undergoing complete cytoreduction per quartile of 300 patients was 60.7%, 65.0%, 77.0% and 80.3%. Laparotomy and biopsy fell from 6.4% in the first quartile to 2.7%, 1.7% and 1.3% in subsequent quartiles. The 30‐day mortality in the four quartiles was 3.0%, 1.0%, 0.7% and 0.7%. The 5‐year survival was 84% in the 636 patients with appendix tumours who had complete cytoreduction, 76% in the 38 with abdominal mesothelioma and 44% in the 60 with colorectal peritoneal metastases.

Conclusion

A centralized approach facilitated high volume experience in a single centre with an increase in the completeness of surgical excision rates and a reduction in mortality and morbidity over time.
Cultural Gravity Effects among Migrants: A Comparative Analysis of theEU15
Authors: Tubadji Annie , Nijkamp Peter
Published: April 2015

This article introducescultural gravityas a concept that serves to better disentangle the direction and magnitude of the effects from migration, which is controversial in recent literature. The aim is to test for cultural gravity effects on both the geographic concentration and human capital productivity of immigrants in the EU15 countries. Operationally, we proceed to construct an empirical cultural gravity measure and test it with the use of a composite cross‐sectional database, comprising, inter alia, the World Value Survey and Eurostat Census data. After an initial exploration of relevant cultural data by means of multivariate statistical analysis, we present an extended formulation of a gravity model approached through logistic regression methods and a three‐stage least‐squares estimation. Our results clearly demonstrate the existence of a cultural gravity effect among immigrants. Finally, an interesting finding is that cultural gravity also plays a significant role in the context of the Culture‐Based Development (CBD) growth model.
ESG Rating in Investment Risk Analysis of Companies Listed on the Public Market in Poland
Authors: Czerwińska Teresa , Kaźmierkiewicz Piotr
Published: April 2015

This study verifies the hypothesis that greater transparency of public companies in disclosing non‐financial (ESG) data results in lower volatility of return rates on securities issued by them, thereby reducing investment portfolio risk understood as return rate volatility. Non‐financial data reporting contributes to increased transparency, predictability of companies' operations and hence to significant reduction in information asymmetry on the capital market, and ultimately considerably reduces forecasting errors in risk–return profile of investment portfolios. The research conducted has shown that there is a large information gap on the Polish market, especially as regards ESG reporting. The overall level of reporting on non‐financial data is low. In the analysed period, the shares issued by companies with higher ESG rating were distinguished by an over‐average return rate and lower return rate volatility as well as lower forecasting error in return rates, which is indicated by the standard error parameter (alpha and beta coefficients).
Crystal structure of β‐galactosidase from Bacillus circulans ATCC 31382 (BgaD) and the construction of the thermophilic mutants
Authors: Ishikawa Kazuhiko , Kataoka Misumi , Yanamoto Toshiaki , Nakabayashi Makoto , Watanabe Masahiro , Ishihara Satoru , Yamaguchi Shotaro
Published: April 2015

β‐Galactosidase (EC 3.2.1.23) from Bacillus circulans ATCC 31382, designated BgaD, exhibits high transglycosylation activity to produce galacto‐oligosaccharides. BgaD has been speculated to have a multiple domain architecture including a F5/8‐type C domain or a discoidin domain in the C‐terminal peptide region from amino acid sequence analysis. Here, we solved the first crystal structure of the C‐terminal deletion mutant BgaD‐D, consisting of sugar binding, Glyco_hydro, catalytic and bacterial Ig‐like domains, at 2.5 Å. In the asymmetric unit, two molecules of BgaD‐D were identified and the value of VM was estimated to be 5.0 Å3·Da−1. It has been speculated that BgaD‐D consists of four domains. From the structural analysis, however, we clarified that BgaD‐D consists of five domains. We identified a new domain structure comprised of β‐sheets in BgaD. The catalytic domain exhibits a TIM barrel structure with a small pocket suited for accommodating the disaccharides. Detailed structural information for the amino acid residues related to activity and substrate specificity was clarified in the catalytic domain. Furthermore, using the structural information, we successfully constructed some thermostable mutants via protein engineering method.

Database

Coordinates for the BgaD‐D structure have been deposited in the Protein Data Bank under accession code 4YPJ
Temporal and spatial availability of Atlantic Thread Herring, Opisthonema oglinum, in relation to oceanographic drivers and fishery landings on the Florida Panhandle
Authors: Chagaris David , Mahmoudi Behzad , Muller‐Karger Frank , Cooper Wade , Fischer Keith
Published: April 2015

Since 1995, landings of Atlantic Thread Herring (Opisthonema oglinum) on the Florida Panhandle averaged 124 mt each spring (April–June) but declined to nearly zero in 1996–97 and 2006. To elucidate causes of recurring periods of low landings, we used generalized additive mixed models (GAMMs) to examine the relationship between Atlantic Thread Herring catch in a trawl survey on the west‐central coast of Florida and four environmental variables. Chlorophyll‐a was significant in the models, indicating a direct relationship between local abundance of baitfish and their planktonic food. Temperature and depth were also significant whereas salinity was not. During 2003 and 2012, synoptic satellite‐derived temperature and chlorophyll‐a maps were used with the GAMMs to predict monthly spatial availability on the Florida Panhandle fishing grounds (long. 85–88o W and depth 12–25 m). The predicted monthly availability was significantly correlated with commercial catch rates (Pearson's r = 0.26, P = 0.004, d.f. = 118). We used multiple linear regression (MLR) with lags to describe the effect of river discharge and wind (as a transport mechanism) on surface chlorophyll‐a over the Panhandle fishing grounds. Discharge from local rivers was significant in all MLRs, and the Mississippi was only significant as an interaction with wind. We conclude that Atlantic Thread Herring are distributed over the Panhandle fishing grounds based on food availability that is driven by river discharge and eastward transport of Mississippi River plumes. This analysis improves our understating of baitfish dynamics, an important ecosystem component in the Gulf of Mexico.
How organic carbon derived from multiple sources contributes to carbon sequestration processes in a shallow coastal system?
Authors: Watanabe Kenta , Kuwae Tomohiro
Published: April 2015

Carbon captured by marine organisms helps sequester atmospheric CO2, especially in shallow coastal ecosystems, where rates of primary production and burial of organic carbon (OC) from multiple sources are high. However, linkages between the dynamics of OC derived from multiple sources and carbon sequestration are poorly understood. We investigated the origin (terrestrial, phytobenthos derived, and phytoplankton derived) of particulate OC (POC) and dissolved OC (DOC) in the water column and sedimentary OC using elemental, isotopic, and optical signatures in Furen Lagoon, Japan. Based on these data analysis, we explored how OC from multiple sources contributes to sequestration via storage in sediments, water column sequestration, and air–sea CO2 exchanges, and analyzed how the contributions vary with salinity in a shallow seagrass meadow as well. The relative contribution of terrestrial POC in the water column decreased with increasing salinity, whereas autochthonous POC increased in the salinity range 10–30. Phytoplankton‐derived POC dominated the water column POC (65–95%) within this salinity range; however, it was minor in the sediments (3–29%). In contrast, terrestrial and phytobenthos‐derived POC were relatively minor contributors in the water column but were major contributors in the sediments (49–78% and 19–36%, respectively), indicating that terrestrial and phytobenthos‐derived POC were selectively stored in the sediments. Autochthonous DOC, part of which can contribute to long‐term carbon sequestration in the water column, accounted for >25% of the total water column DOC pool in the salinity range 15–30. Autochthonous OC production decreased the concentration of dissolved inorganic carbon in the water column and thereby contributed to atmospheric CO2 uptake, except in the low‐salinity zone. Our results indicate that shallow coastal ecosystems function not only as transition zones between land and ocean but also as carbon sequestration filters. They function at different timescales, depending on the salinity, and OC sources.
Lactulose production from lactose by recombinant cellobiose 2‐epimerase in permeabilised Escherichia coli cells
Authors: Wang Mingming , Yang Ruijin , Hua Xiao , Shen Qiuyun , Zhang Wenbin , Zhao Wei
Published: April 2015

Caldicellulosiruptor saccharolyticus cellobiose 2‐epimerase (CsCE) catalyses the single substrate lactose into lactulose and is the most efficient enzyme ever found for the enzymatic synthesis of lactulose. Ethanol‐permeabilised Escherichia coli cells containing CsCE were used as biocatalysts for lactulose production. The reaction conditions for maximum lactulose production were optimised to be 600 g L−1 lactose, pH 7.5, 80 °C and 12.5 U mL−1 of whole‐cell biocatalyst. After incubated at Na2HPO4–NaH2PO4 buffer for 2 h, approximately 390.59 g L−1 lactulose was obtained with a conversion yield of 65.1%. The lowest production and conversion yield of epilactose were also found in Na2HPO4–NaH2PO4 buffer with a final concentration of 11.7 g L−1 and a conversion yield <2%. The results represent a promising technology to attain high production and conversion yield of lactulose with a high purity on industrial scale.
Effects of extrusion cooking on the dietary fibre content and Water Solubility Index of wheat bran extrudates
Authors: Rashid Summer , Rakha Allah , Anjum Faqir M. , Ahmed Waqas , Sohail Muhammad
Published: April 2015

Instant study was an attempt to elucidate the suitability of wheat bran for extrusion cooking and to check the effect of different extrusion parameters on the dietary fibre profile as well as on water solubility index. Response surface methodology was used to optimise the extrusion parameters. From results, it was concluded that extrusion cooking had a positive effect on total and soluble dietary fibre. Whilst the insoluble dietary fibre decreased appreciably with the varying processing parameters, the decrease in insoluble fibre and increase in soluble fibre were probably due to disruption of covalent and noncovalent bonds in the carbohydrate and protein moieties leading to smaller and more soluble molecular fragments. Additionally, water solubility index was greatly enhanced by varying extrusion temperature and screw speed. Conclusively, the findings suggest the usefulness of extrusion cooking to beneficially modify the wheat bran for value addition.
Effects of differences between cell‐free and cell‐associated glucosyltransferases from Leuconostoc mesenteroides on gluco‐oligosaccharides structure
Authors: Wang Song , Sun Xiaoqi , Gao Lili , Zhang Bolin
Published: April 2015

The gluco‐oligosaccharide structures depended largely upon the glucosyltransferase (GTF) differences. The oligosaccharides with four polymerisation degrees only was produced by Leuconostoc mesenteroides 6055L that contain more cell‐free GTFs, while the gluco‐oligosaccharides with two polymerisation degrees could be yielded by strains PC13 and L4 that have high cell‐related GTFs. Also, more gluco‐oligosaccharides with α‐1, 6 glycosidic link as the backbone, accompanied by the α‐1, 4 glycosidic link as a branch structure was formed in the presence of cell‐free enzymes. The oligosaccharide with α‐1, 3 glycosidic link that connects to all of other branch structures was observed in the presence of cell‐related enzymes. To produce gluco‐oligosaccharides with α‐1, 3 glycosidic link, the L. mesenteroides strains with high proportion of cell‐related GTFs should be recommended. This is the first time to discuss the effects of the differences between the cell‐free and the cell‐associated GTFs produced by L. mesenteroides on oligosaccharide structure.
Control of CD8 T cell proliferation and terminal differentiation by active STAT5 and CDKN2A/CDKN2B
Authors: Grange Magali , Giordano Marilyn , Mas Amandine , Roncagalli Romain , Firaguay Guylène , Nunes Jacques A. , Ghysdael Jacques , Schmitt‐Verhulst Anne‐Marie , Auphan‐Anezin Nathalie
Published: April 2015

CD8 T cells used in adoptive immunotherapy may be manipulated to optimize their effector functions, tissue‐migratory properties and long‐term replicative potential. We reported that antigen‐stimulated CD8 T cells transduced to express an active form of the transcription factor signal transducer and activator of transcription 5 (STAT5CA) maintained these properties upon adoptive transfer. We now report on the requirements of STAT5CA‐expressing CD8 T cells for cell survival and proliferation in vivo. We show that STAT5CA expression allows for greater expansion of T cells in vivo, while preserving dependency on T‐cell‐receptor‐mediated tonic stimulation for their in vivo maintenance and return to a quiescent stage. STAT5CA expression promotes the formation of a large pool of effector memory T cells that respond upon re‐exposure to antigen and present an increased sensitivity to γc receptor cytokine engagement for STAT5 phosphorylation. In addition, STAT5CA expression prolongs the survival of what would otherwise be short‐lived terminally differentiated KLRG1‐positive effector cells with up‐regulated expression of the senescence‐associated p16INK4A transcripts. However, development of a KLRG1‐positive CD8 T cell population was independent of either p16INK4A or p19ARF expression (as shown using T cells from CDKN2A−/− mice) but was associated with expression of transcripts encoding p15INK4B, another protein involved in senescence induction. We conclude that T‐cell‐receptor‐ and cytokine‐dependent regulation of effector T cell homeostasis, as well as mechanisms leading to senescent features of a population of CD8 T cells are maintained in STAT5CA‐expressing CD8 T cells, even for cells that are genetically deficient in expression of the tumour suppressors p16INK4A and p19ARF.
Analysis of the functional WT1‐specific T‐cell repertoire in healthy donors reveals a discrepancy between CD4+ and CD8+ memory formation
Authors: Schmied Sabine , Gostick Emma , Price David A. , Abken Hinrich , Assenmacher Mario , Richter Anne
Published: April 2015

The Wilms’ tumour‐1 (WT1) protein is considered a prime target for cancer immunotherapy based on its presumptive immunogenicity and widespread expression across a variety of malignancies. However, little is known about the naturally occurring WT1‐specific T‐cell repertoire because self‐derived antigens typically elicit low frequency responses that challenge the sensitivity limits of current detection techniques. In this study, we used highly efficient cell enrichment procedures based on CD137, CD154, and pHLA class I tetramer staining to conduct a detailed analysis of WT1‐specific T cells from the peripheral blood. Remarkably, we detected WT1‐specific CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell populations in the vast majority of healthy individuals. Memory responses specific for WT1 were commonly present in the CD4+ T‐cell compartment, whereas WT1‐specific CD8+ T cells almost universally displayed a naive phenotype. Moreover, memory CD4+ and naive CD8+ T cells with specificity for WT1 were found to coexist in some individuals. Collectively, these findings suggest a natural discrepancy between the CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell lineages with respect to memory formation in response to a self‐derived antigen. Nonetheless, WT1‐specific T cells from both lineages were readily activated ex vivo and expanded in vitro, supporting the use of strategies designed to exploit this expansive reservoir of self‐reactive T cells for immunotherapeutic purposes.
The nucleic acid‐sensing inflammasomes
Authors: Xiao Tsan Sam
Published: April 2015

Inflammasomes are oligomeric signaling complexes that promote caspase activation and maturation of proinflammatory cytokines. Structural and biophysical studies have shed light on the mechanisms of nucleic acid recognition and signaling complex assembly involving the AIM2 (absent in myeloma 2) and IFI16 (γ‐interferon‐inducible protein 16) inflammasomes. However, our understanding of the mechanisms of the NLRP3 (nucleotide‐binding oligomerization‐like receptor family, pyrin domain‐containing protein 3) activation, either by nucleic acids or by other reported stimuli, has remained elusive. Exciting recent progress on the filament formation by the ASC (apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain) pyrin domain and the IFI16–double stranded DNA complex has established that the formation of higher order polymers is one of the general mechanisms for signaling platform assembly in innate immune system. The paradigm‐changing discovery of the extracellular function of the NLRP3–ASC inflammasome has opened the door for therapeutic targeting the inflammasome filament formation for various clinical conditions. Future characterization of the canonical and non‐canonical inflammasome complexes will undoubtedly reveal more surprises on their structure and function and enrich our understanding of the molecular mechanisms of ligand recognition, activation, and regulation.
NLRP3 at the interface of metabolism and inflammation
Authors: Haneklaus Moritz , O'Neill Luke A. J.
Published: April 2015

The discovery of the NLRP3 (NLR family, pyrin domain containing 3) inflammasome provided an important molecular mechanism in the induction of the central pro‐inflammatory cytokine interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β), via activation of caspase‐1, which processes pro‐IL‐1β into its mature active form. IL‐1 has long been known to exert metabolic effects, most notably being implicated in insulin resistance and obesity. A key phenotype of the NLRP3‐deficient mouse is insulin hypersensitivity. Over the past 5 years, a number of discoveries have been made suggesting a close interplay between NLRP3 and metabolism. Metabolic products have been shown to activate NLPR3, and disturbed mitochondria have been shown to be involved in NLRP3 function. It is possible that under normal physiology NLRP3 is homeostatic and maintains the metabolic balance. However, upon chronic activation (e.g. in obesity or hypercholesterolemia), NLRP3 becomes pathologic and promotes disease. Here, we review these findings and place them in the context of exciting new insights that are improving our understanding of the link between inflammation and metabolism. These insights are giving rise to better understanding of disease pathogenesis and might point to new therapeutic approaches.
The NAIP–NLRC4 inflammasome in innate immune detection of bacterial flagellin and type III secretion apparatus
Authors: Zhao Yue , Shao Feng
Published: April 2015

Bacterial flagella and type III secretion system (T3SS) are evolutionarily related molecular transport machineries. Flagella mediate bacterial motility; the T3SS delivers virulence effectors to block host defenses. The inflammasome is a cytosolic multi‐protein complex that activates caspase‐1. Active caspase‐1 triggers interleukin‐1β (IL‐1β)/IL‐18 maturation and macrophage pyroptotic death to mount an inflammatory response. Central to the inflammasome is a pattern recognition receptor that activates caspase‐1 either directly or through an adapter protein. Studies in the past 10 years have established a NAIP–NLRC4 inflammasome, in which NAIPs are cytosolic receptors for bacterial flagellin and T3SS rod/needle proteins, while NLRC4 acts as an adapter for caspase‐1 activation. Given the wide presence of flagella and the T3SS in bacteria, the NAIP–NLRC4 inflammasome plays a critical role in anti‐bacteria defenses. Here, we review the discovery of the NAIP–NLRC4 inflammasome and further discuss recent advances related to its biochemical mechanism and biological function as well as its connection to human autoinflammatory disease.
Drivers of age‐related inflammation and strategies for healthspan extension
Authors: Goldberg Emily L. , Dixit Vishwa Deep
Published: April 2015

Aging is the greatest risk factor for the development of chronic diseases such as arthritis, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, kidney disease, Alzheimer's disease, macular degeneration, frailty, and certain forms of cancers. It is widely regarded that chronic inflammation may be a common link in all these age‐related diseases. This raises the question, can one alter the course of aging and potentially slow the development of all chronic diseases by manipulating the mechanisms that cause age‐related inflammation? Emerging evidence suggests that pro‐inflammatory cytokines interleukin‐1 (IL‐1) and IL‐18 show an age‐dependent regulation implicating inflammasome‐mediated caspase‐1 activation in the aging process. The Nod‐like receptor (NLR) family of innate immune cell sensors, such as the nucleotide‐binding domain, leucine‐rich‐containing family, pyrin domain‐containing‐3 (NLRP3) inflammasome controls the caspase‐1 activation in myeloid‐lineage cells in several organs during aging. The NLRP3 inflammasome is especially relevant to aging as it can get activated in response to structurally diverse damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs) such as extracellular ATP, excess glucose, ceramides, amyloids, urate, and cholesterol crystals, all of which increase with age. Interestingly, reduction in NLRP3‐mediated inflammation prevents age‐related insulin resistance, bone loss, cognitive decline, and frailty. NLRP3 is a major driver of age‐related inflammation and therefore dietary or pharmacological approaches to lower aberrant inflammasome activation holds promise in reducing multiple chronic diseases of age and may enhance healthspan.
Regulation of inflammasome activation
Authors: Man Si Ming , Kanneganti Thirumala‐Devi
Published: April 2015

Inflammasome biology is one of the most exciting and rapidly growing areas in immunology. Over the past 10 years, inflammasomes have been recognized for their roles in the host defense against invading pathogens and in the development of cancer, auto‐inflammatory, metabolic, and neurodegenerative diseases. Assembly of an inflammasome complex requires cytosolic sensing of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns or danger‐associated molecular patterns by a nucleotide‐binding domain and leucine‐rich repeat receptor (NLR) or absent in melanoma 2 (AIM2)‐like receptors (ALR). NLRs and ALRs engage caspase‐1, in most cases requiring the adapter protein apoptosis‐associated speck‐like protein containing a CARD (ASC), to catalyze proteolytic cleavage of pro‐interleukin‐1β (pro‐IL‐1β) and pro‐IL‐18 and drive pyroptosis. Recent studies indicate that caspase‐8, caspase‐11, IL‐1R–associated kinases (IRAK), and receptor‐interacting protein (RIP) kinases contribute to inflammasome functions. In addition, post‐translational modifications, including ubiquitination, deubiquitination, phosphorylation, and degradation control almost every aspect of inflammasome activities. Genetic studies indicate that mutations in NLRP1, NLRP3, NLRC4, and AIM2 are linked with the development of auto‐inflammatory diseases, enterocolitis, and cancer. Overall, these findings transform our understanding of the basic biology and clinical relevance of inflammasomes. In this review, we provide an overview of the latest development of inflammasome research and discuss how inflammasome activities govern health and disease.
Infants of Depressed Mothers Show Reduced Gaze Activity During Mother–Infant Interaction at 4 Months
Authors: Væver Mette S. , Krogh Marianne T. , Smith‐Nielsen Johanne , Christensen Torben T. , Tharner Anne
Published: April 2015

Gaze is one of the main means of communication in young infants, and it has been shown to be important for subsequent socio‐emotional and cognitive development. Maternal depression is a well‐known risk factor for disrupting mother–infant interactions, but findings regarding gaze behavior in infants of depressed versus nondepressed mothers have been ambiguous. In this study, we examined gaze duration and activity in a sample of 27 infants of mothers with postpartum depression (PPD) and 49 infants of nondepressed mothers. Maternal depressive symptoms were assessed with the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale, and diagnoses were confirmed in clinical interview. Infant gaze was assessed during 4‐month face‐to‐face interactions using continuous timed‐event coding with high temporal resolution. Although we found no differences in gaze duration, infants of PPD mothers had both significantly less Gaze On and also less Gaze Off events. Findings suggest that PPD is related to reduced gaze activity during mother–infant interaction in 4‐month‐olds. This reduced activity may have long‐term negative consequences for child development.
A Case of Subcutaneous Malignant Fibrous Histiocytoma Circumscribed by Fibrous Tissue
Authors: Fukunaka Hidenori , Etoh Takafumi , Nakagawa Hidemi , Tamaki Kunihiko
Published: April 2015

We report a case of malignant fibrous histiocytoma (MFH) located in the subcutaneous tissue on the right axilla. We excised the tumor sufficiently beyond the clinical margin. It was pathologically diagnosed as a storiform‐pleomorphic type of malignant fibrous histiocytoma almost completely circumscribed by fibrous tissue, including fascicles of fibroblasts; this is a rare histological picture. The tumor has not recurred for three years. Although MFH frequently undergoes metastasis, the circumscribed‐type subcutaneous MFH characteristic of superficiality and of histologically well‐defined structure seems to have a relatively more favorable prognosis after adequate radical excision.
Vitiligo Coexistent with Nevus Depigmentosus
Authors: Kang In Kyung , Hann Seung Kyung
Published: April 2015

A 45‐year‐old Korean man had two distinct types of hypopigmented lesions on the forehead and back: vitiligo and nevus depigmentosus (ND). The hypopigmented macules on the forehead were incidentally discovered 15 days previously and responsed well to steroid therapy. The hypopigmented macule on the back had been present since birth, was stable in size, and showed no response to steroid therapy. There were no remarkable differences between the two lesions in routine histopathology or Fontana‐Masson staining. However, the lesion on the back was shown to contain melanocytes in electron microscopy (EM).
An Immunohistochemical Study of E‐Cadherin Expression in Human Squamous Cell Carcinoma of the Skin
Authors: Koseki Shin , Aoki Takehiko , Ansai Shinichi , Hozumi Yutaka , Mitsuhashi Yoshihiko , Kondo Shigeo
Published: April 2015

E‐cadherin is a Ca2+‐dependent, intercellular adhesion molecule that is specifically expressed in epithelial tissues and is essential for maintaining intercellular connections. It has been reported that E‐cadherin expression of tumor cells is often decreased in some types of metastasizing carcinomas as compared with those without metastasis.

We immunohistochemically examined the expression of E‐cadherin with anti‐E‐cadherin monoclonal antibody and compared primary lesions of human squamous cell carcinoma of the skin (SCC) with regional lymph node metastasis to those without regional lymph node metastasis. Tumor samples from fifty‐five cases of SCC (32 cases of SCC without metastasis and 23 cases with metastasis) were formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded, and examined. E‐cadherin was reduced or absent in 39 (70.9%) out of 55 cases of SCC, and in 21 (91.3%) of 23 cases with regional lymph node metastasis.

Our results suggest that the decreased expression of E‐cadherin in the primary lesion is correlated with regional lymph node metastasis in SCC and that it is more frequently correlated with well‐differentiated than with poorly differentiated SCC. E‐cadherin may be useful as a marker for metastatic potential in well‐differentiated SCC.
Myelodysplastic Syndrome Following Treatment of Malignant Melanoma with Vincristine, ACNU, and Dacarbazine
Authors: Kageshita Toshiro , Kuribayashi Noriomi , Ono Tomomichi
Published: April 2015

Therapy‐related myelodysplastic syndrome is a rare adverse effect in melanoma patients elicited by chemotherapy. We report a case of myelodysplastic syndrome following treatment of malignant melanoma with alkylating agents. Peripheral blood showed a remarkable suppression of three cell lineages, and the bone marrow was slightly hypercellular. However, no morphological abnormalities were detected in the peripheral blood or the bone marrow, and chromosomal analysis was normal.
Trois scénarios pour l'avenir des relations professionnelles en Europe
Authors: HYMAN Richard
Published: April 2015

L'auteur envisage trois scénarios pour l'avenir des relations professionnelles en Europe. Selon le premier, le plus réaliste sans doute, les tendances actuelles se poursuivent et les systèmes nationaux de relations professionnelles, comme les conditions d'emploi, se détériorent. Dans le deuxième, une réforme venant des élites réussit à remodeler les relations professionnelles et la protection des travailleurs, suivant un projet idéal de politique sociale: peu probable vu la prééminence des considérations financières et de la concurrence mondialisée. Le troisième repose sur un contre‐mouvement venant du terrain, les syndicats ayant pour défi de mobiliser les mécontentements bien au‐delà de leur base traditionnelle.
L'avenir des relations professionnelles aux Etats‐Unis: retour à la base et créativité
Authors: FINE Janice
Published: April 2015

Les Etats‐Unis sont l'un des pays développés où le déclin du syndicalisme et de la négociation collective est le plus marqué. Leurs relations professionnelles, fondées sur la relation d'emploi «typique», ont vu leurs institutions affaiblies par une législation restrictive et par l'hostilité des employeurs. Désormais, l'emploi précaire, les conditions de travail médiocres et la marginalisation caractérisent le marché du travail, avec pour effet l'apparition de nouveaux mouvements sociaux, spontanés et locaux, visant à protéger les travailleurs vulnérables avec des stratégies très novatrices. A cet égard, les «centres d'aide aux travailleurs» sont particulièrement actifs, souvent en association avec les syndicats classiques.