bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Benefits to poorly studied taxa of conservation of bird and mammal diversity on islands
Authors: Aslan Clare , Holmes Nick , Tershy Bernie , Spatz Dena , Croll Donald A.
Published: July 2014

Protected area delineation and conservation action are urgently needed on marine islands, but the potential biodiversity benefits of these activities can be difficult to assess due to lack of species diversity information for lesser known taxa. We used linear mixed effects modeling and simple spatial analyses to investigate whether conservation activities based on the diversity of well‐known insular taxa (birds and mammals) are likely to also capture the diversity of lesser known taxa (reptiles, amphibians, vascular land plants, ants, land snails, butterflies, and tenebrionid beetles). We assembled total, threatened, and endemic diversity data for both well‐known and lesser known taxa and combined these with physical island biogeography characteristics for 1190 islands from 109 archipelagos. Among physical island biogeography factors, island area was the best indicator of diversity of both well‐known and little‐known taxa. Among taxonomic factors, total mammal species richness was the best indicator of total diversity of lesser known taxa, and the combination of threatened mammal and threatened bird diversity was the best indicator of lesser known endemic richness. The results of other intertaxon diversity comparisons were highly variable, however. Based on our results, we suggest that protecting islands above a certain minimum threshold area may be the most efficient use of conservation resources. For example, using our island database, if the threshold were set at 10 km2 and the smallest 10% of islands greater than this threshold were protected, 119 islands would be protected. The islands would range in size from 10 to 29 km2 and would include 268 lesser known species endemic to a single island, along with 11 bird and mammal species endemic to a single island. Our results suggest that for islands of equivalent size, prioritization based on total or threatened bird and mammal diversity may also capture opportunities to protect lesser known species endemic to islands.

Beneficios de los Taxa Poco Estudiados para la Conservación de la Diversidad de Aves y Mamíferos en Islas
Parallels in Preschoolers' and Adults' Judgments About Ownership Rights and Bodily Rights
Authors: Van de Vondervoort Julia W. , Friedman Ori
Published: July 2014

Understanding ownership rights is necessary for socially appropriate behavior. We provide evidence that preschoolers' and adults' judgments of ownership rights are related to their judgments of bodily rights. Four‐year‐olds (n = 70) and adults (n = 89) evaluated the acceptability of harmless actions targeting owned property and body parts. At both ages, evaluations did not vary for owned property or body parts. Instead, evaluations were influenced by two other manipulations—whether the target belonged to the agent or another person, and whether that other person approved of the action. Moreover, these manipulations influenced judgments for owned objects and body parts in the same way: When the other person approved of the action, participants' judgments were positive regardless of who the target belonged to. In contrast, when that person disapproved, judgments depended on who the target belonged to. These findings show that young children grasp the importance of approval or consent for ownership rights and bodily rights, and likewise suggest that people's notions of ownership rights are related to their appreciation of bodily rights.
Ionic liquids as performance additives for water‐based printing inks
Authors: Żołek‐Tryznowska Zuzanna , Izdebska Joanna , Gołąbek Małgorzata
Published: July 2014

For the first time, the use of ionic liquids as additives for printing inks in order to improve the wettability of the printing base by the ink is presented. The aim of this work was to study the influence of ionic liquids on the selected properties of water‐based printing ink and the prints. The contact angles of the printing inks on the printing base were measured. Modified flexographic inks were laboratory printed on polypropylene plastic film. The impact of small amounts of various ionic liquids on printing ink colour was examined in terms of the optical density of the full‐tone area, the colour parameters (L*, a*, b*, CIE), the total colour difference, and the gloss of the dried ink film. The influence of ionic liquids on the ink contact angle, the optical density, and the L*a*b* coordinates is discussed. In general, the investigated ionic liquids improve the wettability of water‐based flexographic printing ink, with an acceptable total colour difference. The optical density is increased for printing inks containing ionic liquids in comparison with the original flexographic printing ink, Process.
Task Routineness and Trade Policy Preferences
Authors: Blonigen Bruce A. , McGrew Jacob
Published: July 2014

Understanding the formation of individual trade policy preferences is a fundamental input into the modeling of trade policy outcomes. Surprisingly, past studies have found mixed evidence that various labor market and industry attributes of workers affect their trade policy preferences, even though recent studies have found that trade policy can have substantial impacts on workers' incomes. This paper provides the first analysis of the extent to which task routineness affects trade policy preferences using survey data from the American National Election Studies. We find significant evidence that greater task routineness leads workers to be much more supportive of import restrictions, consistent with recent evidence on how trade openness puts downward pressure on employment and wages for workers whose occupations involve routine tasks. In fact, other than education levels, task routineness is the only labor market attribute that displays a robust correlation with individuals' stated trade policy preferences. We also provide evidence that there are some interactions between the economic and non‐economic factors in our study. For example, women's trade policy views are much more invariant to their labor market attributes than men, suggesting that women's views on this issue are driven more by personal and ideological beliefs than men.
Drastic changes in host preference in a gall‐parasitic flea weevil, Orchestes hustachei, during the last decade
Authors: MURAMATSU KOICHI , AKIMOTO SHIN‐ICHI
Published: July 2014

1. Factors affecting host preference in herbivorous insects are actively discussed. Larval performance, competition and predation on each host, and host abundance are reportedly factors affecting the host preference of ovipositing females. In the present study, chronological changes in female host preference were examined by employing a flea weevil species that uses the original host and a newly introduced host simultaneously.

2. Orchestes hustachei Klima (Coleoptera: Curclionidae) is an aphidophagous flea weevil that oviposits on aphid galls, and the larvae feed on aphids inside. The weevil's native hosts are galls of the Tetraneura species on Ulmus davidiana, while the novel hosts are galls of an introduced species, Paracolopha morrisoni on Zelkova serrata, an introduced hardwood. Choice experiments were conducted using Tetraneura galls and Paracolopha galls and the results were compared with experiments conducted 10 years ago.

3. More than 90% of ovipositing females selected Paracolopha galls. This result is in marked contrast with the result of the 2002 experiment, in which 66.3% of females selected Paracolopha galls. To explore driving forces of the preference change, mortality factors, pupal mass on the two hosts, and temporal changes in the abundance of the host galls were examined.

4. Abundance of Tetraneura galls decreased gradually throughout the last 26 years. By contrast, weevil survival and performance did not vary significantly between the two hosts. Therefore, it is concluded that temporal changes in the relative abundance of two hosts are main factors of the change in host preference.
Competitive dominance in the organisation of Mediterranean ant communities
Authors: BLIGHT OLIVIER , ORGEAS JEROME , TORRE FRANCK , PROVOST ERICK
Published: July 2014

1. Competition by dominant species is thought to be key to structuring ant communities. However, recent findings suggest that the effect of dominant species on communities is less pronounced than previously assumed.

2. The aim of the present study was to identify the role of dominant ants in the organisation of Mediterranean communities, particularly the role of competition in invaded and uninvaded communities. The effects on ant assemblages of two dominant ants, the invasive Argentine ant and the native ant, Tapinoma nigerrimum Nylander, were assessed.

3. The abundances of both dominant ants were significantly correlated with a decrease in native ant richness at traps. However, only the invasive ant was associated with a reduction in diversity and abundance of other ant species at site scale. In the presence of T. nigerrimum, species co‐occurrence patterns were segregated or random. Community structure in both the dominant‐free and the Argentine ant sites showed random patterns of species co‐occurrence.

4. The present findings indicate that dominant ants regulate small‐scale diversity by competition. However, at the broader scale of the assemblage, T. nigerrimum may only affect species distribution, having no apparent effect on community composition. Moreover, we find no evidence that inter‐specific competition shapes species distribution in coastal Mediterranean communities free of dominant ants.

5. These results show that dominant species may affect ant assemblages but that the nature and the intensity of such effects are species and scale dependent. This confirms the hypothesis that competitive dominance may be only one of a range of factors that structure ant communities.
Differential response of Trichogramma wasps to extreme sex pheromone types of the noctuid moth Heliothis virescens
Authors: XU JINZHU , HUIGENS MARTINUS E. , ORR DAVID , GROOT ASTRID T.
Published: July 2014

1. Chemical espionage in nature may occur when predators or parasitoids home in on animal or plant communication signals. Parasitoid wasps are known to use pheromones emitted by adults hosts to locate host eggs, larvae or pupae. The response of Trichogramma egg parasitoids to a synthetic sex pheromone blend of moths has been shown in a number of studies over the past 40 years.

2. Trichogramma pretiosum (Hymenoptera, Trichogrammatidae) is a tiny parasitic wasp, attacking the eggs of the noctuid moth Heliothis virescens (Lepidoptera, Noctuidae). This study investigated whether T. pretiosum homes in on the sex pheromone of H. virescens at close range. The arrestment response of the wasps to sex pheromone gland extracts of two types of female moths, so‐called high and low females, was also tested, referring to two selected extreme pheromone types of H. virescens. The study also investigated whether the wasps would mount females, possibly to hitchhike with them.

3. The wasps were arrested by the common, ‘low’ pheromone, but not by the rare, ‘high’ pheromone or by extracts from male hairpencils. The wasps did not show a preference for separate sex pheromone compounds, but when pre‐exposed to the major sex pheromone component of H. virescens before the tests together with H. virescens eggs, they did show a preference, indicating learning behaviour. In the mounting experiments, mated females were mounted significantly more than virgin females or males, suggesting that hitchhiking is a strategy used by these wasps to locate moth eggs.

4. This represents the first study to show a differential response of parasitoid wasps to two different sex pheromone types in a single host species. The results warrant further investigations into the potential role of parasitic wasps in the evolution of sexual communication in moths.
Development of microsatellites for the cacao frosty pod rot pathogen, Moniliophthora roreri
Authors: Melo B. L. B. , de Souza J. T. , Santos R. M. F. , Rehner S. A. , Solis K. H. , Suarez C. , Hebbar P. K. , Lemos L. S. L. , Gramacho K. P.
Published: July 2014

Moniliophithora roreri, causal agent of cacao frosty pod rot, is considered one of the most devastating pathogens of this crop. In this study, we report the development of and validation of 28 microsatellite loci from an enriched library. From these, ten loci were demonstrated to be polymorphic in an Ecuadorian population composed of 27 isolates. The mean number of alleles per locus was 3.2, and the observed mean and expected heterozygosity were 0.03 and 0.43, respectively. The polymorphic microsatellites described herein may be used to study the genetic diversity as well as to comprehend other aspects of M. roreri population biology.
Downregulation of Centaurin gamma1A increases synaptic transmission at Drosophila larval neuromuscular junctions
Authors: Homma Mizuho , Nagashima Shun , Fukuda Toshifumi , Yanagi Shigeru , Miyakawa Hiroyoshi , Suzuki Emiko , Morimoto Takako
Published: July 2014

Adequate regulation of synaptic transmission is critical for appropriate neural circuit functioning. Although a number of molecules involved in synaptic neurotransmission have been identified, the molecular mechanisms regulating neurotransmission are not fully understood. Here, we focused on Centaurin gamma1A (CenG1A) and examined its role in synaptic transmission regulation using Drosophila larval neuromuscular junctions. CenG1A is a member of the Centaurin family, which contains Pleckstrin homology, ADP ribosylation factor GTPase‐activating protein, and ankyrin repeat domains. Due to the existence of these functional domains, CenG1A is proposed to be involved in the process of synaptic release; however, no evidence for this has been found to date. In this study, we investigated the potential role for CenG1A in the process of synaptic release by performing intracellular recordings in larval muscle cells. We found that neurotransmitter release from presynaptic cells was enhanced in cenG1A mutants. This effect was also observed in larvae with reduced CenG1A function in either presynaptic or postsynaptic cells. In addition, we revealed that suppressing CenG1A function in postsynaptic muscle cells led to an increase in the probability of neurotransmitter release, whereas its suppression in presynaptic neurons led to an increase in neurotransmitter release probability and an increase in the number of synaptic vesicles. These results suggested that CenG1A functions at both presynaptic and postsynaptic sites as a negative regulator of neurotransmitter release. Our study provided evidence for a key role of CenG1A in proper synaptic transmission at neuromuscular junctions.
AMP‐activated protein kinase mediates the antioxidant effects of resveratrol through regulation of the transcription factor FoxO1
Authors: Yun Hee , Park Seolhui , Kim Min‐Jung , Yang Woo Kyeom , Im Dong Uk , Yang Ki Ryeol , Hong Jongki , Choe Wonchae , Kang Insug , Kim Sung Soo , Ha Joohun
Published: July 2014

Numerous physiological functions are controlled by redox‐responsive signaling pathways. Disruption of redox balance by oxidative stress is recognized as a major cause of many pathological conditions, including aging, highlighting the importance of investigating how antioxidants maintain redox homeostasis. AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) is activated in response to cellular conditions that accompany energy depletion and plays a central role in the regulation of energy homeostasis, tumorigenesis and longevity. Recently, several antioxidants have been reported to activate AMPK, although the mechanisms by which AMPK acts to adjust the levels of cellular reactive oxygen species are not fully characterized. In the present study, we investigated the role of AMPK in mediating resveratrol‐induced antioxidant effects and the molecular mechanisms underlying its actions. We demonstrate that AMPK activity plays an indispensable role in the operation of the ROS defense system by inducing the expression of the antioxidant enzymes, manganese superoxide dismutase and catalase, in response to resveratrol or the AMPK agonist 5‐aminoimidazole‐4‐carboxamide‐1‐β‐d‐ribonucleotide. In addition, we identified the mechanism involved in the antioxidant function of AMPK, demonstrating that AMPK directly phosphorylates human FoxO1 (forkhead box O1) at Thr649 in vitro and increases FoxO1‐dependent transcription of manganese superoxide dismutase and catalase. Mutagenesis studies showed that this AMPK‐mediated phosphorylation of FoxO1 is critical for FoxO1 stability and nuclear localization, establishing the molecular basis for the induction of FoxO1 transcriptional activity. Our results reveal a novel FoxO1‐dependent mechanism by which AMPK controls the expression of antioxidant enzymes and suggest that AMPK has an important role in maintaining redox homeostasis.
The IMF's Rethink of Global Banks: Critical in Theory, Orthodox in Practice
Authors: Gabor Daniela
Published: July 2014

The International Monetary Fund's (IMF) new financial interconnectedness agenda, developed in response to postcrisis calls from G20 to better understand systemic financial institutions, deploys a critical approach that stresses the spatial, political, and institutional dimensions of cross‐border financial networks. It portrays global banks as key nodes in those networks, “super‐spreaders” of systemic risk through complex business models that involve yield search, regulatory and tax arbitrage. Yet this critical view does not translate into its policy advice at country level. In regular surveillance of developing countries, the IMF remains committed to a benign view of transnational banking, even when confronted with growing cross‐border fragilities. During crises of cross‐border banking, the IMF tailors its conditionality to minimize domestic regulatory challenges to cross‐border banking models and to propose crisis measures that create new profit opportunities for transnational banks.
Novel use for an EGFR mutation‐specific antibody in discriminating lung adenocarcinoma from reactive pneumocyte hyperplasia
Authors: Mimori Tomoyasu , Kobayashi Saori , Tanaka Ayako , Sasada Shinji , Yoshida Akihiko , Izumo Takehiro , Sasaki Naoshi , Tsuchida Takaaki , Tsuta Koji
Published: July 2014

Aims

Pulmonary ground‐glass nodules (GGNs) are frequently observed. Histopathologically, their presentation can indicate a wide range of disorders from an inflammatory process to malignancy. An accurate diagnosis based on GGNs can sometimes be challenging on small‐sized biopsies. Mutations in the EGFR gene are detected in pulmonary adenocarcinomas (ADCs). Immunohistochemical analysis using antibodies that detect specific EGFR mutations has been shown to correlate with mutational status as determined by molecular methods. We hypothesized that these antibodies could be used to discriminate between ADCs and benign pneumocyte hyperplasias.

Methods and results

Surgically resected, pre‐invasive to invasive lung ADC (n = 32) and reactive pneumocyte hyperplasia (n = 40) tissue samples were probed with antibodies against EGFR mutations, p53, Mouse double minute 2 and 14‐3‐3 sigma. Of the 32 lung ADC specimens analysed, 12 (38%) were positive using the EGFR mutation‐specific antibodies, while no immunoreactivity was observed in reactive pneumocyte hyperplasia specimens. Analyses of receiver operating characteristic curves showed that the highest area under the curve values were associated with the use of EGFR mutation‐specific antibodies. In addition, a high concordance rate was observed between surgically resected and corresponding biopsy materials using these antibodies.

Conclusions

EGFR mutation‐specific antibodies can be used to discriminate between lung ADC and benign pneumocyte hyperplasia, even in small‐sized biopsies.
Changes in Chinese hair growth along a full year
Authors: Liu C. , Yang J. , Qu L. , Gu M. , Liu Y. , Gao J. , Collaudin C. , Loussouarn G.
Published: July 2014

Synopsis

Objective

To confirm the existence of seasonal hair growth cycle among Chinese subjects and objectivize the seasonal effect of hair loss; the hair growth parameters of Chinese volunteers were followed monthly for an entire year on the same area of vertex.

Methods

The hair growth parameters of 41 Chinese volunteers (women and men), free from alopecia, were recorded monthly along an entire year using the phototrichogram technique.

Results

Results show an increased rate of telogen hairs (growing arrest) around August–September in the study group, as previously reported in European subjects albeit of a lower extent and remaining within the normal range of healthy head hair parameters. The possible effects of latitude and daylight duration are discussed.

Conclusion

Data confirm that Chinese hairs present characteristics of the most developed and fast growing terminal fibres, as compared to other non‐Asian ethnics.
Screening for Chlamydia infection in a sexually transmitted infection clinic: a missed opportunity?
Authors: Pedrosa Ana Filipa , Azevedo Filomena , Lisboa Carmen
Published: July 2014

Objectives

Chlamydia trachomatis (CT) infection is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) reported in Europe. We aim to evaluate the overall prevalence of CT infection and the rate of asymptomatic infection in an STI clinic over a 5‐year period. We will also discuss screening strategies with reference to attendees diagnosed with an STI and their sexual partners, and attendees with a non‐infectious genital dermatosis.

Methods

Clinical and laboratory data for all attendees at a university hospital STI clinic over a 5‐year period were reviewed. Diagnosis of CT infection was made upon polymerase chain reaction (PCR) performed in first‐void urine.

Results

The overall prevalence of CT infection was 4.0% (53/1310); the rate of asymptomatic infection was 84.9% (45/53). The prevalence of CT infection among attendees with an STI diagnosis and their sexual partners was 5.2% (50/963), whereas that among attendees with a non‐infectious genital dermatosis was 0.9% (3/347; P < 0.001). Infected attendees were younger than attendees without CT infection (median age: 31 years vs. 40 years; P < 0.001). In 39.5% (17/43) of CT‐infected attendees, it was possible to notify a sexual partner; CT infection was subsequently diagnosed in 58.8% (10/17) of partners.

Conclusions

Asymptomatic CT infection had a representative frequency, which was more pronounced among young attendees with an STI diagnosis and their sexual partners, to whom screening should be offered. Issues of age limits for screening and whether screening should be directed to males in non‐STI clinic settings should be carefully assessed.
Skin cancer prevention campaign aimed at beachgoers on the Costa del Sol (southern Spain)
Authors: de Troya‐Martín Magdalena , Delgado‐Sánchez Nuria , Blázquez‐Sánchez Nuria , Ortega‐Tudela Gregorio , Toribio‐Montero Juan Carlos , Jabalera‐Mesa Maria Lourdes , Ríos‐Almellones Inmaculada , Rivas‐Ruiz Francisco
Published: July 2014

Background

Sunbathing on the beach is one of the main risks for skin cancer.

Objective

In the summer of 2010, a skin cancer prevention campaign aimed at beachgoers was undertaken on the western Costa del Sol (southern Spain).

Methods

The campaign took place on beaches during July and August. A multicomponent intervention was conducted by a dermatologist and other healthcare professionals, including: (1) interviews about risk factors and sun protection habits; (2) full skin examination using dermoscopy; (3) health advice plus educational brochure; (4) sunscreen workshop plus free samples; and (5) survey about satisfaction and behavioral intentions. A journalism and health prize was offered to encourage mass media coverage.

Results

Four hundred and seven beachgoers (56% tourists) were recruited during the campaign, mean age 45 years. Most of the participants reported high‐risk sun exposure and revealed high rates of clinically suspicious lesions of skin cancer (8.1%), melanoma (2.9%), actinic keratosis (10.2%), and atypical nevus (7.6%). The campaign was highly appreciated by the participants and followed not only by local but also regional and national media.

Conclusion

Beachgoers are a strategic target to prevent skin cancer. Beaches are also suitable places to develop a skin cancer prevention campaign, allowing direct access to the high‐risk population for surveying, health behavior education, and screening. Several keys may be useful to optimize results as the design of a personalized intervention of proven efficacy, provision of a trained healthcare team, and development of an attractive strategy for the mass media.
Diagnostic imaging in paraneoplastic autoimmune multiorgan syndrome: retrospective single site study and literature review of 225 patients
Authors: Lehman Vance T. , Barrick Benjamin J. , Pittelkow Mark R. , Peller Patrick J. , Camilleri Michael J. , Lehman Julia S.
Published: July 2014

Background

The utility of diagnostic imaging in paraneoplastic autoimmune multiorgan syndrome (PAMS) is unknown.

Methods

We examined the role of diagnostic imaging in patients with PAMS evaluated at our tertiary referral center (at Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA) and in the English literature between January 1, 1996, and August 31, 2012.

Results

We included 17 patients from our institution and 208 patients from the literature review. Of these 225 patients, 113 (50.2%) were not known to have a malignancy diagnosis at the time of PAMS diagnosis. Of the 123 patients from our institution and from the literature reported to undergo imaging studies, conventional computed tomography (CT) was the predominant imaging modality (n = 110; 89.4%); 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose (18F‐FDG) positron emission tomography (PET)/CT was also used, albeit infrequently (n = 12; 9.8%). When CT was included in imaging to identify or confirm the presence of a malignancy, imaging was successful in all patients who ultimately were diagnosed with an associated malignancy. At our institution, a relatively high percentage (n = 7; 41%) of patients had 18F‐FDG PET/CT, which not only identified all tumors found on CT but also facilitated staging of lymphoma and guided biopsy procedures.

Conclusion

Diagnostic imaging is frequently utilized in PAMS with unknown malignancy. Both conventional CT and 18F‐FDG PET/CT are likely to detect the typical underlying neoplasms. Relative to conventional CT, 18F‐FDG PET/CT may provide additional useful information regarding prognosis for the likely underlying malignancies, although there is a paucity of reports describing the use of this modality for this purpose.
Mortality attributable to rheumatic heart disease in the Kimberley: a data linkage approach
Authors: Davies S. B. , Hofer A. , Reeve C.
Published: July 2014

Background

Acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and its sequelae, rheumatic heart disease (RHD) are now uncommon in the general Australian population. However, these preventable and treatable diseases continue to affect Aboriginal Australians disproportionately, especially in remote communities. In the Kimberley region of Western Australia (WA), the prevalence of RHD is approximately 1% among Aboriginal residents. Yet an accurate and comprehensive picture of RHD‐related mortality is lacking.

Aim

This study aims to determine the mortality burden attributable to ARF and RHD in the Kimberley using linked hospitalisation and death registry data.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was undertaken comprising all Kimberley residents with a WA hospital admission for ARF or RHD between 1970 and 2010, linked with the WA Death Register. We manually classified RHD‐attributable deaths (‘definite’ or ‘probable’) to determine mortality burden. Hospitalisation prior to death, including valvular surgery was also ascertained.

Results

There were 35 RHD‐attributable deaths in the Kimberley between 1990 and 2010, with 94% occurring in Aboriginal people. Their median age of death was 40 years. The age‐standardised RHD annual death rate was 15.6 per 100 000 with a total of 1100 premature years of life lost before age of 75 within this group. Conventional International Classification of Diseases‐generated mortality data underestimated mortality burden.

Conclusion

RHD remains a significant cause of premature mortality for Aboriginal people in the Kimberley, with mortality rates unmatched in the general Australian population since the first half of the 20th century. Efforts to reduce progression of this disease through RHD Register and Control Programs are crucial alongside action to address underlying socioeconomic and environmental inequities.
Synthesis and Luminescence Properties of Blue‐Emitting Phosphor Eu2+‐Doped Zinc Fluoro‐Phosphate Zn2[PO4]F
Authors: Qiao Xuebin , Wang Jing , Huang Yanlin , Cai Peiqing , Kim Sun I. L. , Seo Hyo‐Jin
Published: July 2014

Eu2+‐doped zinc fluoro‐phosphate Zn2[PO4]F was synthesized by the conventional high‐temperature solid‐state reaction. The phase formation was confirmed by X‐ray powder diffraction measurements and the structure refinement. The photoluminescence excitation and emission spectra, and the decay curves were measured. The natures of the Eu2+ emission in inorganic hosts, e.g., the emission and excitation properties, the chromaticity coordinates, the Stokes shifts, the absolute quantum efficiency, and the luminescence thermal stability were reported. Under the excitation of near‐UV light, Eu2+‐doped Zn2[PO4]F presents a narrow blue‐emitting band centered at 423 nm. The thermal stability of the blue luminescence was evaluated by the luminescence intensities as a function of temperature. The phosphor shows an excellent thermal stability on temperature quenching effects.
Toxoplasma gondii Isolates from Mouflon Sheep (Ovis ammon) from Hawaii, USA
Authors: Verma Shiv K. , Su Chunlei , Dubey Jitender P.
Published: July 2014

Little is known of Toxoplasma gondii isolates circulating in wildlife. The mouflon (Ovis ammon) is very popular game animal, hunted for its trophy horns. Here, we report the isolation and genetic characterization of T. gondii from two mouflons from Hawaii, USA. Both sheep had antibodies titers of 1:800 or higher. Viable T. gondii were isolated and nested PCR‐RFLP genotyping revealed two genotypes, a clonal Type III (designated TgMouflonUS1), and a new genotype (designated TgMouflonUS2, and ToxoDB PCR‐RFLP genotypes #249). This is the first report of T. gondii infection, isolation and genetic characterization in mouflons from the USA.
Identification of Peptidases in Highly Pathogenic vs. Weakly Pathogenic Naegleria fowleri Amebae
Authors: Vyas Ishan K. , Jamerson Melissa , Cabral Guy A. , Marciano‐Cabral Francine
Published: July 2014

Naegleria fowleri, a free‐living ameba, is the causative agent of Primary Amebic Meningoencephalitis. Highly pathogenic mouse‐passaged amebae (Mp) and weakly pathogenic axenically grown (Ax) N. fowleri were examined for peptidase activity. Zymography and azocasein peptidase activity assays demonstrated that Mp and Ax N. fowleri exhibited a similar peptidase pattern. Prominent for whole cell lysates, membranes and conditioned medium (CM) from Mp and Ax amebae was the presence of an activity band of approximately 58 kDa that was sensitive to E64, a cysteine peptidase inhibitor. However, axenically grown N. fowleri demonstrated a high level of this peptidase activity in membrane preparations. The inhibitor E64 also reduced peptidase activity in ameba‐CM consistent with the presence of secreted cysteine peptidases. Exposure of Mp amebae to E64 reduced their migration through matrigel that was used as an extracellular matrix, suggesting a role for cysteine peptidases in invasion of the central nervous system (CNS). The collective results suggest that the profile of peptidases is not a discriminative marker for distinguishing Mp from Ax N. fowleri. However, the presence of a prominent level of activity for cysteine peptidases in N. fowleri membranes and CM, suggests that these enzymes may serve to facilitate passage of the amebae into the CNS.
Cigarette smoke condensate inhibits collagen gel contraction and prostaglandin E2 production in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Romero A. , Cáceres M. , Arancibia R. , Silva D. , Couve E. , Martínez C. , Martínez J. , Smith P. C.
Published: July 2014

Background

Granulation tissue remodeling and myofibroblastic differentiation are critically important events during wound healing. Tobacco smoking has a detrimental effect in gingival tissue repair. However, studies evaluating the effects of cigarette smoke on these events are lacking.

Material and Methods

We used gingival fibroblasts cultured within free‐floating and restrained collagen gels to simulate the initial and final steps of the granulation tissue phase during tissue repair. Collagen gel contraction was stimulated with serum or transforming growth factor‐β1. Cigarette smoke condensate (CSC) was used to evaluate the effects of tobacco smoke on gel contraction. Protein levels of alpha‐smooth muscle actin, β1 integrin, matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and connective tissue growth factor were evaluated through Western blot. Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) levels were determined through ELISA. Actin organization was evaluated through confocal microscopy.

Results

CSC reduced collagen gel contraction induced by serum and transforming growth factor‐β1 in restrained collagen gels. CSC also altered the development of actin stress fibers in fibroblasts cultured within restrained collagen gels. PGE2 levels were strongly diminished by CSC in three‐dimensional cell cultures. However, other proteins involved in granulation tissue remodeling and myofibroblastic differentiation such as alpha‐smooth muscle actin, β1 integrin, matrix metalloproteinase‐3 and connective tissue growth factor, were unmodified by CSC.

Conclusions

CSC may alter the capacity of gingival fibroblasts to remodel and contract a collagen matrix. Inhibition of PGE2 production and alterations of actin stress fibers in these cells may impair proper tissue maturation during wound healing in smokers.
Periodontal cytokines profile under orthodontic force and extracorporeal shock wave stimuli in a rat model
Authors: Hazan‐Molina H. , Reznick A. Z. , Kaufman H. , Aizenbud D.
Published: July 2014

Background and Objective

Extracorporeal shock wave therapy has been used in various clinical conditions as a result of its ability to stimulate healing processes in acute and chronic inflammatory states. Orthodontic force application triggers an inflammatory reaction in the periodontal tissue surrounding the involved teeth, resulting in tooth movement. Preliminary work revealed that extracorporeal shock wave therapy increased the expression of the inflammatory cytokines involved. Our aim was to investigate the expression of inflammatory cytokines in the periodontal tissues following orthodontic force induction, with and without shock wave therapy, in experimental rats.

Material and Methods

An orthodontic appliance was fabricated and applied between the molars and the incisors of adult Wistar rats. In conjunction with orthodontic force commencement, the rats were treated with a single episode of 1000 shock waves. Every day, during the 3 d of the study, rats were killed and the immunolocalization of RANKL, interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha was evaluated.

Results

The percentage of the area staining positively for all inflammatory cytokines during the first 2 d decreased statistically significantly more in the shock wave‐treated group compared with the nontreated control group. On the first day, the percentage of the area staining positively for IL‐1β and RANKL on the compression side peaked in both groups, with a sequential rise in the number of TRAP‐positive cells.

Conclusion

The induction of shock wave therapy during orthodontic tooth movement influences the expression of different inflammatory cytokines in the tissue and might alter the expected periodontal remodeling rate.
The genetics of inflorescence architecture in Hordeum
Authors: KOMATSUDA Takao
Published: July 2014

The barley (Hordeum vulgare) spike exists in two alternative forms: six‐rowed or two rowed. The genetic basis of this difference lies in the single gene Vrs1, the recessive allele of which is responsible for the six‐rowed phenotype. The gene encodes a homeodomain‐leucine zipper I class transcription factor. Its paralog HvHox2 is well conserved among the cereals, whereas Vrs1 acquired its function after the speciation of barley. To determine whether it is the mode of expression or neofunctionalization which accounts for the action of Vrs1, a comparative analysis was carried out between HvHox2 and Vrs1. This revealed that HvHOX2 and VRS1 share the same transcriptional activation activity. In situ hybridization analysis showed that HvHox2 mRNA is concentrated in the vascular bundles of the immature spike, whereas Vrs1 message is deposited exclusively in the pistil, lemma, palea, and lodicule of the lateral spikelets. The transcript abundance of Vrs1 was over 10‐fold higher than that of HvHox2 during the pistil developmental stage, suggesting that the key function of Vrs1 is to inhibit gynoecial development. An analysis of six‐rowed spike mutants which are non‐allelic to vrs1 showed that Vrs1 was up‐regulated by Vrs4, whereas HvHox2 expression was not. These data demonstrate that it is most likely a divergence in gene expression which has determined the function of Vrs1.
Mannose‐mediated inhibitory effects of PA‐MSHA on invasion and metastasis of hepatocellular carcinoma via EGFR/Akt/IκBβ/NF‐κB pathway
Authors: Li Tao , Dong Zhao‐Ru , Guo Zong‐Yi , Wang Cheng‐Hao , Zhi Xu‐Ting , Zhou Jian‐Wei , Li Deng‐Ke , Chen Ze‐Ting , Chen Zhi‐Qiang , Hu San‐Yuan
Published: July 2014

Background & Aims

Elevation of high‐mannose glycans is a common feature of malignant cells and has been suggested to be the basis for alternative cancer therapy for several years. Here we want to investigate the antitumour effect of pseudomonas aeruginosa‐mannosesensitive haemagglutinin (PA‐MSHA), a genetically engineered heat‐inactivated PA strain with mannose‐sensitive binding activity, on hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC).

Methods

Tumourigenicity and metastatic potentials of HCC were studied after PA‐MSHA treatment by utilizing the in vitro/in vivo model of HCC. Expression of apoptosis‐associated proteins and epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT) related genes were evaluated, and possible signalling pathways involved were investigated.

Results

PA‐MSHA induced significant cell proliferation inhibition and cell cycle arrest of HCC through decreasing the levels of cyclins D1, cyclins E, CDK2, CDK4, proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), and increasing the level of p21 and p27. Moreover, PA‐MSHA suppressed the invasion, migration and adhesion of HCC through inhibiting epithelial‐mesenchymal transition (EMT). PA‐MSHA also inhibited EGFR/Akt/IκBβ/NF‐κB pathway and overexpression of NF‐κB significantly abrogated PA‐MSHA induced EMT inhibition. In addition, competitive inhibition of the mannose binding activity of PA‐MSHA by D‐mannose significantly blocked its effect on cell cycle arrest and EMT. PA‐MSHA also abrogated lung metastasis of HCC and significantly inhibited tumour growth in the in vivo study.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrated the essential role of EGFR/Akt/IκBβ/NF‐κB pathway in the inhibitory effect of PA‐MSHA on invasion and metastasis of HCC through suppressing EMT, and revealed an attractive prospect of PA‐MSHA as a novel candidate agent in the treatment of HCC.
Bridging all oral DAA therapy from wait time to post‐liver transplant to improve HCV eradication?
Authors: Donato Maria Francesca , Monico Sara , Malinverno Federica , Aghemo Alessio , Maggioni Marco , Reggiani Paolo , Colombo Massimo
Published: July 2014

Background & Aims: Recurrence of hepatitis C is a major cause of graft loss and shortened survival in patients receiving a liver transplant (LT) for end‐stage hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection. The only way to improve graft and patient outcomes is a successful eradication of HCV infection by antiviral therapy either before or after transplant. This was achievable in a small proportion of recipients by IFN‐based regimens, but could be obtained in the majority of them by using DAA IFN‐free regimens before/after transplant. Methods: We describe a patient with decompensated cirrhosis because of severe recurrent hepatitis C, who had a retransplant following treatment with a combination of sofosbuvir and riba virin that started during the waiting time and was carried over during both the transplant and post‐transplant phases for an overall period of 24 weeks. The patient gave a written consent to receive Sofosbuvir plus Rbv therapy pre and post‐transplant. Results: Post‐transplant serum HCV‐RNA remains undetectable 24 weeks after discontinuing sofosbuvir and ribavirin (SVR24). Conclusions: Waiting for direct antiviral agents combinations, our findings not only support the use of sofosbuvir plus ribavirin as the first‐line treatment in all patients on the LT waiting list, but also suggest to bridge treatment to the post‐transplant period in case HCV RNA undetectability for at least 30 days has not been achieved at the time of LT.
Language Learning and Socialization Opportunities in Game Worlds: Trends in First and Second Language Research
Authors: Pasfield‐Neofitou Sarah
Published: July 2014

Since the growth of online gaming in the mid‐2000s, an increasing number of studies have theorised that virtual game worlds provide an optimal environment for language learning – both first language literacy development and second language acquisition. Although online games are often thought of as little more than distractions, a number of studies have demonstrated that there exist myriad opportunities for communication and learning, including language learning, in many games. One of the most popular games, the massively multiplayer online game World of Warcraft, for example, relies for much of its success on the opportunities it presents for engaging collaboration in navigating the world and taking part in team combat, often mediated via language. While a number of studies have already examined first language socialization processes in games, particularly following the release of World of Warcraft a decade ago, research on opportunities for second language learning opportunities in online games is still emerging, and this area of research will be the focus of this review. Via a meta‐analysis of both first and second language studies in areas within and outside of linguistics and language education, this review will explore why virtual game worlds are said to constitute such ideal environments for language learning.
The impact of psychiatric and extraintestinal comorbidity on quality of life and bowel symptom burden in functional GI disorders
Authors: Vu J. , Kushnir V. , Cassell B. , Gyawali C. P. , Sayuk G. S.
Published: July 2014

Background

Functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGID) patients report poor health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) and experience high rates of psychiatric and extraintestinal functional disorder (EIFD) comorbidity. The independent influence of these comorbidities on HRQOL and symptom burden remains unknown. We sought to determine whether FGID with mood or EIFD comorbidity have poorer HRQOL and greater GI symptom burdens; to determine the influence of comorbidities on HRQOL in FGID independent of bowel symptoms.

Methods

Subjects reported on comorbidities (anxiety, depression, somatization, EIFD), FGID criteria (irritable bowel syndrome, IBS; functional dyspepsia, FD) using ROME III Research questionnaire, GI symptom burden, and HRQOL. Differences in measures were assessed between subjects with and without ROME III criteria. Multiple regression determined the relative contribution of comorbidities to HRQOL, and mediation analysis explored whether comorbidity influences HRQOL.

Key Results

In a cohort of 912 GI outpatients (47.2 ± 1.5 years, 75.8% female), 606 (66.4%) met Rome III IBS and/or FD criteria. Comorbidities were common in FGID (≥1 in 77.4%), leading to lower HRQOL and greater GI symptom burden (each p < 0.05). Poorer HRQOL was predicted by both psychiatric and EIFD comorbidity (each p < 0.05) independent of GI symptoms (p < 0.001). Comorbidities together exerted a greater effect on predicted variation in HRQOL (70.9%) relative to GI symptoms (26.5%).

Conclusions & Inferences

Psychiatric and EIFD comorbidities are common in FGID, decrease HRQOL and are associated with greater GI symptom burdens; these factors were stronger predictors of HRQOL than GI symptoms in FGID patients.
Anesthetic agents in patients with very long‐chain acyl‐coenzyme A dehydrogenase deficiency: a literature review
Authors: Redshaw Charlotte , Stewart Catherine
Published: July 2014

Very long‐chain acyl‐coenzyme A dehydrongenase deficiency (VLCADD) is a rare disorder of fatty acid metabolism that renders sufferers susceptible to hypoglycemia, liver failure, cardiomyopathy, and rhabdomyolysis. The literature about the management of these patients is hugely conflicting, suggesting that both propofol and volatile anesthesia should be avoided. We have reviewed the literature and have concluded that the source papers do not support the statements that volatile anesthetic agents are unsafe. The reports on rhabdomyolysis secondary to anesthesia appear to be due to inadequate supply of carbohydrate not volatile agents. Catabolism must be avoided with minimal fasting, glucose infusions based on age and weight, and attenuation of emotional and physical stress. General anesthesia appears to be protective of stress‐induced catabolism and may offer benefits in children and anxious patients over regional anesthesia. Propofol has not been demonstrated to be harmful in VLCADD but is presented in an emulsion containing very long‐chain fatty acids which can cause organ lipidosis and itself can inhibit mitochondrial fatty acid metabolism. It is therefore not recommended. Suxamethonium‐induced myalgia may mimic symptoms of rhabdomyolysis and cause raised CK therefore should be avoided. Opioids, NSAIDS, regional anesthesia, and local anesthetic techniques have all been used without complication.
Oral immunization of haemaggulutinin H5 expressed in plant endoplasmic reticulum with adjuvant saponin protects mice against highly pathogenic avian influenza A virus infection
Authors: Lee Goeun , Na Yun Jeong , Yang Bo‐Gie , Choi Jun‐Pyo , Seo Yong Bok , Hong Chun‐Pyo , Yun Chang Ho , Kim Dae Heon , Sohn Eun Ju , Kim Jeong Hee , Sung Young Chul , Kim Yoon‐Keun , Jang Myoung Ho , Hwang Inhwan
Published: July 2014

Pandemics in poultry caused by the highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A virus occur too frequently globally, and there is growing concern about theHPAIA virus due to the possibility of a pandemic among humans. Thus, it is important to develop a vaccine againstHPAIsuitable for both humans and animals. Various approaches are underway to develop such vaccines. In particular, an edible vaccine would be a convenient way to vaccinate poultry because of the behaviour of the animals. However, an edible vaccine is still not available. In this study, we developed a strategy of effective vaccination of mice by the oral administration of transgenicArabidopsisplants (HA‐TG) expressing haemagglutinin (HA) in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER). Expression ofHAin theERresulted in its high‐level accumulation,N‐glycosylation, protection from proteolytic degradation and long‐term stability. Oral administration ofHA‐TGwith saponin elicited high levels ofHA‐specific systemic IgG and mucosal IgA responses in mice, which resulted in protection against a lethal influenza virus infection with attenuated inflammatory symptoms. Based on these results, we propose that oral administration of freeze‐dried leaf powders from transgenic plants expressingHAin theERtogether with saponin is an attractive strategy for vaccination against influenza A virus.