bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joint structural and physiological control on the interannual variation in productivity in a temperate grassland: A data‐model comparison
Authors: Hu Zhongmin , Shi Hao , Cheng Kaili , Wang Ying‐Ping , Piao Shilong , Li Yue , Zhang Li , Xia Jianyang , Zhou Lei , Yuan Wenping , Running Steve , Li Longhui , Hao Yanbin , He Nianpeng , Yu Qiang , Yu Guirui
Published: April 2018

Given the important contributions of semiarid region to global land carbon cycle, accurate modeling of the interannual variability (IAV) of terrestrial gross primary productivity (GPP) is important but remains challenging. By decomposing GPP into leaf area index (LAI) and photosynthesis per leaf area (i.e., GPP_leaf), we investigated the IAV of GPP and the mechanisms responsible in a temperate grassland of northwestern China. We further assessed six ecosystem models for their capabilities in reproducing the observed IAV of GPP in a temperate grassland from 2004 to 2011 in China. We observed that the responses to LAI and GPP_leaf to soil water significantly contributed to IAV of GPP at the grassland ecosystem. Two of six models with prescribed LAI simulated of the observed IAV of GPP quite well, but still underestimated the variance of GPP_leaf, therefore the variance of GPP. In comparison, simulated pattern by the other four models with prognostic LAI differed significantly from the observed IAV of GPP. Only some models with prognostic LAI can capture the observed sharp decline of GPP in drought years. Further analysis indicated that accurately representing the responses of GPP_leaf and leaf stomatal conductance to soil moisture are critical for the models to reproduce the observed IAV of GPP_leaf. Our framework also identified that the contributions of LAI and GPP_leaf to the observed IAV of GPP were relatively independent. We conclude that our framework of decomposing GPP into LAI and GPP_leaf has a significant potential for facilitating future model intercomparison, benchmarking and optimization should be adopted for future data‐model comparisons.
The Ensemble Kalman Filter for Groundwater Plume Characterization: A Case Study
Authors: Ross James L. , Andersen Peter F.
Published: April 2018

The Kalman filter is an efficient data assimilation tool to refine an estimate of a state variable using measured data and the variable's correlations in space and/or time. The ensemble Kalman filter (EnKF) (Evensen 2004, 2009) is a Kalman filter variant that employs Monte Carlo analysis to define the correlations that help to refine the updated state. While use of EnKF in hydrology is somewhat limited, it has been successfully applied in other fields of engineering (e.g., oil reservoir modeling, weather forecasting). Here, EnKF is used to refine a simulated groundwater tetrachloroethylene (TCE) plume that underlies the Tooele Army Depot‐North (TEAD‐N) in Utah, based on observations of TCE in the aquifer. The resulting EnKF‐based assimilated plume is simulated forward in time to predict future plume migration. The correlations that underpin EnKF updating implicitly contain information about how the plume developed over time under the influence of complex site hydrology and variable source history, as they are predicated on multiple realizations of a well‐calibrated numerical groundwater flow and transport model. The EnKF methodology is compared to an ordinary kriging‐based assimilation method with respect to the accurate representation of plume concentrations in order to determine the relative efficacy of EnKF for water quality data assimilation.
Systematic review, meta‐analysis, and meta‐regression: Successful second‐line treatment forHelicobacter pylori
Authors: Muñoz Neus , Sánchez‐Delgado Jordi , Baylina Mireia , Puig Ignasi , López‐Góngora Sheila , Suarez David , Calvet Xavier
Published: April 2018

Background

MultipleHelicobacter pylorisecond‐line schedules have been described as potentially useful. It remains unclear, however, which are the best combinations, and which features of second‐line treatments are related to better cure rates. The aim of this study was to determine that second‐line treatments achieved excellent (>90%) cure rates by performing a systematic review and when possible a meta‐analysis. A meta‐regression was planned to determine the characteristics of treatments achieving excellent cure rates.

Methods

A systematic review for studies evaluating second‐lineHelicobacter pyloritreatment was carried out in multiple databases. A formal meta‐analysis was performed when an adequate number of comparative studies was found, using RevMan5.3. A meta‐regression for evaluating factors predicting cure rates >90% was performed using Stata Statistical Software.

Results

The systematic review identified 115 eligible studies, including 203 evaluable treatment arms. The results were extremely heterogeneous, with 61 treatment arms (30%) achieving optimal (>90%) cure rates. The meta‐analysis favored quadruple therapies over triple (83.2% vs 76.1%,OR: 0.59:0.38‐0.93;P = .02) and 14‐day quadruple treatments over 7‐day treatments (91.2% vs 81.5%,OR; 95%CI: 0.42:0.24‐0.73;P = .002), although the differences were significant only in the per‐protocol analysis. The meta‐regression did not find any particular characteristics of the studies to be associated with excellent cure rates.

Conclusion

Second‐lineHelicobacter pyloritreatments achieving>90% cure rates are extremely heterogeneous. Quadruple therapy and 14‐day treatments seem better than triple therapies and 7‐day ones. No single characteristic of the treatments was related to excellent cure rates. Future approaches suitable for infectious diseases—thus considering antibiotic resistances—are needed to design rescue treatments that consistently achieve excellent cure rates.
Foreigners in Philosophy and Openness to Dislocation
Authors: Yavnık Elİf
Published: April 2018

Because of political, economic, technological, and other developments, foreigners who come as students or academics to practice philosophy in a country, geography, and culture other than their own are increasingly prevalent in academic philosophy today. Yet this reality is insufficiently discussed and is under‐thematized, so that it remains opaque even to foreigners themselves. This article seeks first to dissipate that opacity by developing an account of what it is like to be a foreigner in philosophy. I offer an understanding of foreignness through a cluster of interrelated experiences, and I describe “existential dislocation” as the core experience that characterizes the foreigner. Next, the article follows some consequences of these descriptions and analyses. I address considerations of equality in the academy, and then I examine the significance of “existential dislocation” for the philosophical enterprise and propose that it occasions revitalizing possibilities for the discipline.
Human skin‐depigmenting effects of resveratryl triglycolate, a hybrid compound of resveratrol and glycolic acid
Authors: Jo D. J. , Seok J. K. , Kim S. Y. , Park W. , Baek J. H. , Kim Y. M. , Boo Y. C.
Published: April 2018

Objectives

Resveratryl triglycolate (RTG) is a hybrid compound derived by the esterification of resveratrol with glycolic acid. This compound has been previously shown to inhibit cellular melanin synthesis in vitro. This study aimed to examine the in vivo skin‐depigmenting efficacy of RTG in human participants.

Methods

In total, 22 women aged between 25 and 49 years with Fitzpatrick skin type III or IV were enrolled. Their forearms were exposed to UV to induce artificial pigmentation. The test product containing 0.4% RTG or the control product was applied twice daily for up to 8 weeks after the artificial pigmentation. The participants visited the research centre every 2 weeks and were subjected to skin assessments.

Results

Visual assessment of pigmentation degree and instrumental analysis of melanin index, skin lightness (L* value) and skin colour (individual typology angle, ITAo) indicated enhanced depigmentation of the skin in the test group, compared with the control group, in Weeks 6 and 8 (P < 0.05). No adverse skin reactions were observed in any of the participants during the entire test.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the skin‐depigmenting effects of RTG in human participants.
Tackling scabies: novel agents for a neglected disease
Authors: Gopinath Hima , Aishwarya Manju , Karthikeyan Kaliaperumal
Published: April 2018

The scabies mite, Sarcoptes scabiei var hominis, is an obligate ectoparasite of humans. It has been a source of distress for humanity since antiquity. The troublesome mite is emerging triumphant over current acaricidal agents with reports of emerging resistance and treatment failures. Scabies in endemic areas and crusted scabies offer additional management challenges. Exploration of indigenous plants and better understanding of mite biology and pathogenesis provide opportunities for the development of novel agents for this common pest. We review the recent diverse approaches to scabies, including the use of novel plant products with a better safety profile, translating the use of moxidectin from veterinary practice to human scabies, vaccination, immunotherapy, and development of drugs that directly target mite molecules.
Clinical practice guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Turkey
Authors: Uzun Soner , Gürel Mehmet S. , Durdu Murat , Akyol Melih , Fettahlıoğlu Karaman Bilge , Aksoy Mustafa , Aytekin Sema , Borlu Murat , İnan Doğan Esra , Doğramacı Çiğdem Asena , Kapıcıoğlu Yelda , Akman‐Karakaş Ayşe , Kaya Tamer İ. , Mülayim Mehmet K. , Özbel Yusuf , Özensoy Töz Seray , Özgöztaşı Orhan , Yeşilova Yavuz , Harman Mehmet
Published: April 2018

Background

Cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) is a vector‐born parasitic disease characterized by various skin lesions that cause disfiguration if healed spontaneously. Although CL has been endemic for many years in the southern regions of Turkey, an increasing incidence in nonendemic regions is being observed due to returning travelers and, more recently, due to Syrian refugees. Thus far, a limited number of national guidelines have been proposed, but no common Turkish consensus has emerged.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to develop diagnostic and therapeutic guidelines for the management of CL in Turkey.

Methods

This guideline is a consensus text prepared by 18 experienced CL specialists who have been working for many years in areas where the disease is endemic. The Delphi method was used to determine expert group consensus. Initially, a comprehensive list of items about CL was identified, and consensus was built from feedback provided by expert participants from the preceding rounds.

Results

Evidence‐based and expert‐based recommendations through diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms according to local availability and conditions are outlined.

Conclusion

Because CL can mimic many other skin diseases, early diagnosis and early treatment are very important to prevent complications and spread of the disease. The fastest and easiest diagnostic method is the leishmanial smear. The most common treatment is the use of local or systemic pentavalent antimony compounds.
Physicochemical, antioxidant properties and in vitro digestibility of wheat–purple rice flour mixtures
Authors: Klunklin Warinporn , Savage Geoffrey
Published: April 2018

The physicochemical characteristics, antioxidant properties and in vitro digestibility of high‐antioxidant content flours made from different combinations of Thai purple rice flour and refined wheat flour from 25%, 50% to 75% (w/w) were investigated and these were compared with whole flour from purple rice and refined wheat flour. The increase in substitution levels of purple rice flour affected all the functional properties of flours, at the same time the levels of dietary fibre, protein digestibility and antioxidant compositions were also changed. The purple rice flour exerted a particularly strong effect on starch digestibility as the purple rice increased to 50% in the mixture. Moreover, purple rice flour showed lower amounts of rapidly digested starch (RDS), whereas slowly digested starch (SDS) of whole flour from purple rice and 75% substitution purple rice flour was found to be the highest for all samples. The in vitro starch digestibility of all samples also showed a positive correlation between dietary fibre and antioxidant compounds. Overall, the addition of purple rice flour improved the final nutritional properties, notably a lower predicted glycaemic index, and a higher antioxidant potential, which are two important nutritional properties for human health.
Effects of different deodorising processes on the off‐odour compounds and gel properties of common carp surimi
Authors: Jin Ritian , Meng Ran , Zhang Huimin , Yang Xiaofei , Wu Zhaoxia
Published: April 2018

In order to improve the utilisation of the common carp (Cyprinus carpio), the effects of deodorising agents [NaCl, β‐CD, malic acid (MA) and hawthorn extract (HE)] on the volatile compounds of common carp mince and its surimi gel properties were investigated. In total, thirty‐two volatile compounds were identified, seven of which were considered the main compounds of off‐odour, using HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS and OVA analyses. HS‐SPME‐GC‐MS analysis showed that MA and HE removed 84.51% and 77.18% off‐odour compounds, respectively. Three relaxation components (T21, T22, T23) were found in surimi, and their amounts were not affected by deodorising; however, the relaxation time of major component T22 was significantly increased. Surimi deodorised by HE had the highest gel strength because of its increased breaking displacement; however, a slight decrease in whiteness was observed. Thus, appropriate levels of HE could improve the palatability of surimi.
Expression of HLA‐DQA1 and HLA‐DQB1 genes in B lymphocytes, monocytes and whole blood
Authors: Zajacova M. , Kotrbova‐Kozak A. , Cerna M.
Published: April 2018

Differential expression of HLA‐DQA1 and HLA‐DQB1 gene alleles was analysed in three different cell populations isolated from peripheral blood—B lymphocytes, monocytes and whole‐blood cells. Interallelic differences in mRNA levels were observed: DQA1*03 alleles were among the most expressed in all cell types, whereas DQA1*05 alleles were least expressed in whole blood and monocytes and among the most expressed in B cells. For DQB1 gene, DQB1*06 group of alleles were the most expressed, and DQB1*02 group the least expressed within all cell populations examined. In comparison with the rest alleles, DQB1*06 and DQB1*05:02 alleles have higher expression in monocytes than in B cells, professional antigen‐presenting cells. Cell type‐specific regulation of expression was observed as well, with higher and more balanced expression of alleles in B lymphocytes compared to monocytes.
Transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy acts as a therapeutic investigation for intractable hemospermia: Step‐by‐step illustrations and single‐surgeon experience
Authors: Hu Ju‐Chuan , Chen Chuan‐Shu
Published: April 2018

Objective

To describe the methodology of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy and the anatomy of the seminal tract, and to report a single‐surgeon experience with this procedure.

Methods

A total of 38 consecutive patients with intractable macroscopic hemospermia were enrolled from January 2010 to July 2016. A 6/7.5‐Fr semirigid ureteroscope was used to enter the seminal tract by one of these two approaches: through either a trans‐ejaculatory duct opening or a trans‐utricle fenestration. Patient characteristics and their preoperative and postoperative measurements were analyzed retrospectively.

Results

The success rate of transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy was 92.1%, whereas the approaching method in most patients was the trans‐utricle fenestration (88.89%). A total of 34 (94.4%) transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy inspections ended with complete remission, even though nearly half of them (47.2%) only disclosed negative perioperative findings. The median period to complete remission was 4 weeks (interquartile range 4–6 weeks) after the procedure. Four patients had recurrent hemospermia, and the median time to recurrence was 21.5 (range 13–48.5) months.

Conclusions

Transurethral seminal vesiculoscopy is a valuable diagnostic tool for intractable hemospermia, and also plays a therapeutic role by blocking the vicious cycle of stasis, calculi and seminal vesiculitis. More familiarity of the anatomy and enough practice would make the learning curve less steep.
Bacterial community structure and diversity in the gut of the muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae), from India
Authors: Gandotra S. , Kumar A. , Naga K. , Bhuyan P. M. , Gogoi D. K. , Sharma K. , Subramanian S.
Published: April 2018

The muga silkworm, Antheraea assamensis, is exclusively present in the northeastern regions of India and rearing of this silkworm is a vocation unique to this region in the world. Through culture‐dependent techniques, generic identification using 16S ribosomal RNA probes, diversity analysis and qualitative screening for enzyme activities, our studies have identified a number of bacterial isolates, viz. Bacillus spp., Serratia marcescens, Stenotrophomonas maltophilia, Pseudomonas stutzeri, Acinetobacter sp. and Alcaligens sp., inhabiting the gut of the muga silkworm. Analysis of the culturable bacterial community from the gut of An. assamensis revealed that Bacillus (54%) was the predominant bacterial genus followed by Serratia (24%), Pseudomonas (10%) and Alcaligens (6%). Significant differences in the Shannon–Wiener (H') and Simpson (D) diversity indices of gut bacteria were recorded for An. assamensis collected from different regions. H' and D values were found to be highest for An. assamensis from the Titabar region (H' = 4.73 ± 0.43; D = 10.00 ± 0.11) and lowest for individuals from the Mendipathar region (H' = 2.1 ± 0.05; D = 0.04 ± 0.00) of northeastern India. Qualitative screening for enzyme activities identified about 26 gut bacterial isolates having significantly higher cellulose, amylase and lipase activities. These isolates probably contribute to the digestion and nutrition of their host insect, An. assamensis.
Effects of nonprotein amino acids on survival and locomotion ofOsmia bicornis
Authors: Felicioli A. , Sagona S. , Galloni M. , Bortolotti L. , Bogo G. , Guarnieri M. , Nepi M.
Published: April 2018

To investigate the effects of two nectar nonprotein amino acids, β‐alanine and γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), onOsmia bicornissurvival and locomotion, two groups of caged bees were fed with sugar syrup enriched with β‐alanine and GABA, respectively. A further control group was fed with sugar syrup. Five behavioural categories were chosen according to the principle of parsimony and intrinsic unitary consistency from start to end, and recorded by scan sampling: two states (remaining under paper or in tubes) and three events (walking on net, feeding from flower and flying). We also analysed the amino acid content of haemolymph sampled from an additional 45 bees fed the same diets (15 per diet type). Bees fed with β‐alanine had a significantly shorter survival time than those fed with the control and GABA diets. The GABA diet induced higher levels of locomotion than β‐alanine. The former nonprotein amino acid was only detected in the haemolymph of bees fed GABA. The results suggest that insects consuming nonprotein amino‐acid‐rich diets absorb and transfer these substances to the haemolymph and that nonprotein amino acids affect survival and locomotion. Ecological consequences are discussed in the framework of plant reproductive biology.
Transcriptional activities of two newly identified Haemaphysalis longicornis tick‐derived promoter regions in the Ixodes scapularis tick cell line (ISE6)
Authors: Kusakisako K. , Ido A. , Masatani T. , Morokuma H. , Hernandez E. P. , Talactac M. R. , Yoshii K. , Tanaka T.
Published: April 2018

Ticks are obligate haematophagous ectoparasites considered to be second to mosquitoes as vectors of human diseases and the most important vector for animals. Despite efforts to control tick infestations, they remain a serious health problem. Gene manipulation has been established in mosquitoes and led to the control of mosquito populations and of mosquito‐borne pathogens. Therefore, gene manipulation could be useful for controlling ticks and tick‐borne pathogens. To investigate effective gene expression vectors for ticks, the promoter activities of commercial plasmids were evaluated in a tick cell line (ISE6). Dual luciferase assays revealed that pmirGLO, the human phosphoglycerate kinase promoter contained plasmid vector, showed the highest activity in ISE6 cells amongst the tested plasmids. Moreover, we identified the promoter regions of the Haemaphysalis longicornis actin (HlAct) and the intracellular ferritin (HlFer1) genes. To construct a more effective expression vector for ticks, these promoter regions were inserted into pmirGLO (pmirGLO‐HlAct pro and pmirGLO‐HlFer1 pro). The pmirGLO‐HlAct pro vector showed significantly higher promoter activity than pmirGLO, whereas the pmirGLO‐HlFer1 pro vector demonstrated significantly lower promoter activity than pmirGLO in ISE6 cells. The HlAct promoter region may have high promoter activity in ISE6 cells. The results of the present study provide useful information for the development of a genetic modification system in ticks.
Termite soldiers contribute to social immunity by synthesizing potent oral secretions
Authors: He S. , Johnston P. R. , Kuropka B. , Lokatis S. , Weise C. , Plarre R. , Kunte H.‐J. , McMahon D. P.
Published: April 2018

The importance of soldiers to termite society defence has long been recognized, but the contribution of soldiers to other societal functions, such as colony immunity, is less well understood. We explore this issue by examining the role of soldiers in protecting nestmates against pathogen infection. Even though they are unable to engage in grooming behaviour, we find that the presence of soldiers of the Darwin termite, Mastotermes darwiniensis, significantly improves the survival of nestmates following entomopathogenic infection. We also show that the copious exocrine oral secretions produced by Darwin termite soldiers contain a high concentration of proteins involved in digestion, chemical biosynthesis, and immunity. The oral secretions produced by soldiers are sufficient to protect nestmates against infection, and they have potent inhibitory activity against a broad spectrum of microbes. Our findings support the view that soldiers may play an important role in colony immunity, and broaden our understanding of the possible function of soldiers during the origin of soldier‐first societies.
Media reporting of health interventions in New Zealand: a retrospective analysis
Authors: Robinson Christian , Cutfield Nick , Mottershead John , Sharples Katrina , Richards Rosalina , Kingan Jason , Ledgard Celina , Liyanage Anuja , McLean Jennifer , Nahab Fouad , Stewart Fergus , Strachan Samuel , Tucker Kathryn , Zhang Zhiyuan
Published: April 2018

Aim

To evaluate New Zealand media articles on their coverage of key issues regarding health interventions and whether it is consistent with available evidence.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was carried out of all articles published in five New Zealand media sources over a 6‐week period between 15 October and 26 November 2014. Articles were included if their primary focus was on health interventions involving medications, devices or in‐hospital procedures. Articles were assessed for coverage of key issues using previously validated 10‐point criteria. A literature review was performed to compare content with scientific evidence.

Results

We identified 30 articles for review. Only 4 of 30 articles covered indications, benefits and risks, and of these, two were consistent with available evidence (7%, 95% CI 1%–22%). For articles that discussed at least one of indications, benefits or risks, and there was corresponding evidence available, there was a high level of consistency with the evidence (89%, 95% CI 77%–95%). The overall mean value of coverage from the 10‐point criteria was 51% (95% CI 45%–58%). Single questions regarding the potential harm, costs associated with the intervention and the availability of alternative options were particularly poorly covered. They were rated as ‘satisfactory’ in 13%, 23% and 33% of the 30 articles respectively.

Conclusion

New Zealand news articles covering medical treatments and interventions are largely consistent with available evidence but are incomplete. Vital information is being consistently missed, especially around the potential harms and costs of medical interventions.
Generation of memory B cells and their reactivation
Authors: Inoue Takeshi , Moran Imogen , Shinnakasu Ryo , Phan Tri Giang , Kurosaki Tomohiro
Published: April 2018

The successful establishment of humoral memory response depends on at least two layers of defense. Pre‐existing protective antibodies secreted by long‐lived plasma cells act as a first line of defense against reinfection (“constitutive humoral memory”). Previously, a second line of defense in which pathogen‐experienced memory B cells are rapidly reactivated to produce antibodies (“reactive humoral memory”), was considered as simply a back‐up system for the first line (particularly for re‐infection with homologous viruses). However, in the case of re‐infection with similar but different strains of viruses, or in response to viral escape mutants, the reactive humoral memory plays a crucial role. Here, we review recent progress in our understanding of how memory B cells are generated in the pre‐GC stage and during the GC reaction, and how these memory B cells are robustly reactivated with the help of memory Tfh cells to generate the secondary antibody response. In addition, we discuss how these advances may be relevant to the quest for a vaccine that can induce broadly reactive antibodies against influenza and HIV.
ILC2 memory: Recollection of previous activation
Authors: Martinez‐Gonzalez Itziar , Ghaedi Maryam , Steer Catherine A. , Mathä Laura , Vivier Eric , Takei Fumio
Published: April 2018

Immunological memory, traditionally thought to belong to T and B cells, has now been extended to innate lymphocytes, including NK cells and ILC2s, myeloid cells such as macrophages, also termed “trained immunity” and more recently to epithelial stem cells. In this review, we discuss the mechanisms underlying memory generation on ILC2s and speculate about their potential role in human allergic diseases, such as asthma. Moreover, we examine the relevance of the spontaneous ILC2 activation in the lung during the neonatal period in order to efficiently respond to stimuli later in life. These “training” of neonatal ILC2s may have an impact on the generation of memory ILC2s in the adulthood.
The role of cytokines in T‐cell memory in health and disease
Authors: Raeber Miro E. , Zurbuchen Yves , Impellizzieri Daniela , Boyman Onur
Published: April 2018

Upon stimulation with their cognate antigen, naive T cells undergo proliferation and differentiation into effector cells, followed by apoptosis or survival as precursors of long‐lived memory cells. These phases of a T‐cell response and the ensuing maintenance of memory T cells are shaped by cytokines, most notably interleukin‐2 (IL‐2), IL‐7, and IL‐15 that share the common γ chain (γc) cytokine receptor. Steady‐state production of IL‐7 and IL‐15 is necessary for background proliferation and homeostatic survival of CD4+ and CD8+ memory T cells. During immune responses, augmented levels of IL‐2, IL‐15, IL‐21, IL‐12, IL‐18, and type‐I interferons determine the memory potential of antigen‐specific effector CD8+ cells, while increased IL‐2 and IL‐15 cause bystander proliferation of heterologous CD4+ and CD8+ memory T cells. Limiting availability of γc cytokines, reduction in regulatory T cells or IL‐10, and persistence of inflammation or cognate antigen can result in memory T cells, which fail to become cytokine‐dependent long‐lived cells. Conversely, increased IL‐7 and IL‐15 can expand memory T cells, including pathogenic tissue‐resident memory T cells, as seen in lymphopenia and certain chronic‐inflammatory disorders and malignancies. These abovementioned factors impact immunotherapy and vaccines directed at memory T cells in cancer and chronic infection.
TCR tuning of T cell subsets
Authors: Cho Jae‐Ho , Sprent Jonathan
Published: April 2018

After selection in the thymus, the post‐thymic T cell compartments comprise heterogenous subsets of naive and memory T cells that make continuous T cell receptor (TCR) contact with self‐ligands bound to major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules. T cell recognition of self‐MHC ligands elicits covert TCR signaling and is particularly important for controlling survival of naive T cells. Such tonic TCR signaling is tightly controlled and maintains the cells in a quiescent state to avoid autoimmunity. Here, we review how naive and memory T cells are differentially tuned and wired for TCR sensitivity to self and foreign ligands.
Innate immune memory: An evolutionary perspective
Authors: Gourbal Benjamin , Pinaud Silvain , Beckers Gerold J. M. , Van Der Meer Jos W. M. , Conrath Uwe , Netea Mihai G.
Published: April 2018

Over the last decades, there was increasing evidence for the presence of innate immune memory in living organisms. In this review, we compare the innate immune memory of various organisms with a focus on phylogenetics. We discuss the acquisition and molecular basis of immune memory and we describe the innate immune memory paradigm and its role in host defense during evolution. The molecular characterization of innate immunological memory in diverse organisms and host‐parasite systems reconciles mechanisms with phenomena and paves the way to molecular comprehension of innate immune memory. We also revise the traditional classification of innate and adaptive immunity in jawed vertebrates. We emphasize that innate immune responses have the capacity to be “primed” or “trained”, thereby exerting a yet unknown type of immunological memory upon re‐infection.
Memory CD8 T cell inflation vs tissue‐resident memory T cells: Same patrollers, same controllers?
Authors: Welten Suzanne P. M. , Sandu Ioana , Baumann Nicolas S. , Oxenius Annette
Published: April 2018

The induction of long‐lived populations of memory T cells residing in peripheral tissues is of considerable interest for T cell‐based vaccines, as they can execute immediate effector functions and thus provide protection in case of pathogen encounter at mucosal and barrier sites. Cytomegalovirus (CMV)‐based vaccines support the induction and accumulation of a large population of effector memory CD8 T cells in peripheral tissues, in a process called memory inflation. Tissue‐resident memory (TRM) T cells, induced by various infections and vaccination regimens, constitute another subset of memory cells that take long‐term residence in peripheral tissues. Both memory T cell subsets have evoked substantial interest in exploitation for vaccine purposes. However, a direct comparison between these two peripheral tissue‐localizing memory T cell subsets with respect to their short‐ and long‐term ability to provide protection against heterologous challenge is pending. Here, we discuss communalities and differences between TRM and inflationary CD8 T cells with respect to their development, maintenance, function, and protective capacity. In addition, we discuss differences and similarities between the transcriptional profiles of TRM and inflationary T cells, supporting the notion that they are distinct memory T cell populations.
Immunological memory: What's in a name?
Authors: Pradeu Thomas , Du Pasquier Louis
Published: April 2018

Immunological memory is one of the core topics of contemporary immunology. Yet there are many discussions about what this concept precisely means, which components of the immune system display it, and in which phyla it exists. Recent years have seen the multiplication of claims that immunological memory can be found in “innate” immune cells and in many phyla beyond vertebrates (including invertebrates, plants, but also bacteria and archaea), as well as the multiplication of concepts to account for these phenomena, such as “innate immune memory” or “trained immunity”. The aim of this critical review is to analyze these recent claims and concepts, and to distinguish ideas that have often been misleadingly associated, such as memory, adaptive immunity, and specificity. We argue that immunological memory is a gradual and multidimensional phenomenon, irreducible to any simple dichotomy, and we show why adopting this new view matters from an experimental and therapeutic point of view.
TCR repertoire evolution during maintenance of CMV‐specific T‐cell populations
Authors: Schober Kilian , Buchholz Veit R. , Busch Dirk H.
Published: April 2018

During infections and cancer, the composition of the T‐cell receptor (TCR) repertoire of antigen‐specific CD8+ T cells changes over time. TCR avidity is thought to be a major driver of this process, thereby interacting with several additional regulators of T‐cell responses to form a composite immune response architecture. Infections with latent viruses, such as cytomegalovirus (CMV), can lead to large T‐cell responses characterized by an oligoclonal TCR repertoire. Here, we review the current status of experimental studies and theoretical models of TCR repertoire evolution during CMV infection. We will particularly discuss the degree to which this process may be determined through structural TCR avidity. As engineered TCR‐redirected T cells have moved into the spotlight for providing more effective immunotherapies, it is essential to understand how the key features of a given TCR influence T‐cell expansion and maintenance in settings of infection or malignancy. Deeper insights into these mechanisms will improve our basic understanding of T‐cell immunology and help to identify optimal TCRs for immunotherapy.
Thresholds, sensitive stages and genetic variability of finger millet to high temperature stress
Authors: Opole R. A. , Prasad P. V. V. , Djanaguiraman M. , Vimala K. , Kirkham M. B. , Upadhyaya H. D.
Published: April 2018

Finger millet [Eleusine coracana (L.) Gaertn.] is an important coarse cereal crop grown in the arid and semi‐arid regions and often experiences high temperature (HT) stress. The objectives of this research were (i) to quantify effects of season‐long HT stress on physiological and yield traits, (ii) to identify the developmental stages most sensitive to HT stress and (iii) to quantify the genetic variability for HT stress tolerance in finger millet. Research was conducted in controlled environment conditions. HT stress decreased the chlorophyll index, photosystem II activity, grain yield and harvest index. Maximum decrease in number of seeds per panicle and grain yield per plant was observed when stress was imposed during booting, panicle emergence or flowering stages. Maximum genotypic variation was explained by panicle width and number of seeds per panicle at optimum temperature (OT) and grain yield per plant at HT and number of seeds at HT. Based on the stress response and grain yield, tolerant or susceptible genotypes were identified. Finger millet is sensitive to HT stress during reproductive stages, and there was genotypic variability among the finger millet genotypes for number of seeds per panicle and grain yield under HT, which can be exploited to enhance stress tolerance.
Understanding the function of nocturnal song in ovenbirds: males do not countersing at night
Authors: Foote Jennifer R. , Marini Kristen L. D. , AL‐Ani Homam
Published: April 2018

Many diurnal bird species vocalize at night, however the function of nocturnal song is, generally, still poorly understood. Previous research has suggested that nocturnal song may serve a social function and is influenced by environmental factors. To test whether males attend to the nocturnal song of conspecifics, we experimentally exposed ovenbirds Seiurus aurocapilla to nocturnal flight songs, and recorded their response both during the night and during the following dawn chorus. We compared latency to song and vocal output before and after playback exposure to determine if males altered their vocalizations in response to exposure to flight songs from an unknown male. We found no evidence of counter singing or change in nocturnal song output, nor a change in vocal output during the dawn chorus following playback exposure. Our results suggest that, in ovenbirds, nocturnal song does not serve as an intraspecific social function. Nocturnal song, through rare, may be significant in the mating systems of some diurnal bird species, and requires additional study.
Range‐constrained co‐occurrence simulation reveals little niche partitioning among rock‐dwelling Montenegrina land snails (Gastropoda: Clausiliidae)
Authors: Fehér Zoltán , Mason Katharina , Szekeres Miklós , Haring Elisabeth , Bamberger Sonja , Páll‐Gergely Barna , Sólymos Péter
Published: April 2018

Aim

Taxon co‐occurrence analysis is commonly used in ecology, but it has not been applied to range‐wide distribution data of partly allopatric taxa because existing methods cannot differentiate between distribution‐related effects and taxon interactions. Our first aim was to develop a taxon co‐occurrence analysis method that is also capable of taking into account the effect of species ranges and can handle faunistic records from museum databases or biodiversity inventories. Our second aim was to test the independence of taxon co‐occurrences of rock‐dwelling gastropods at different taxonomic levels, with a special focus on the Clausiliidae subfamily Alopiinae, and in particular the genus Montenegrina.

Location

Balkan Peninsula in south‐eastern Europe (46N–36N, 13.5E–28E).

Methods

We introduced a taxon‐specific metric that characterizes the occurrence probability at a given location. This probability was calculated as a distance‐weighted mean of the taxon's presence and absence records at all sites. We applied corrections to account for the biases introduced by varying sampling intensity in our dataset. Then we used probabilistic null‐models to simulate taxon distributions under the null hypothesis of no taxon interactions and calculated pairwise and cumulated co‐occurrences. Independence of taxon occurrences was tested by comparing observed co‐occurrences to simulated values.

Results

We observed significantly fewer co‐occurrences among species and intra‐generic lineages of Montenegrina than expected under the assumption of no taxon interaction.

Main conclusions

Fewer than expected co‐occurrences among species and intra‐generic clades indicate that species divergence preceded niche partitioning. This suggests a primary role of non‐adaptive processes in the speciation of rock‐dwelling gastropods. The method can account for the effects of distributional constraints in range‐wide datasets, making it suitable for testing ecological, biogeographical, or evolutionary hypotheses where interactions of partly allopatric taxa are in question.
Shifts in plant distributions in response to climate warming in a biodiversity hotspot, the Hengduan Mountains
Authors: Liang Qianlong , Xu Xiaoting , Mao Kangshan , Wang Mingcheng , Wang Kun , Xi Zhenxiang , Liu Jianquan
Published: April 2018

Aims

It has been assumed that montane species will undergo upslope shifts in response to climate warming and their range sizes are therefore predicted to decrease. However, this view has been challenged because a recent study (Elsen & Tingley, ) indicated that land surface area increases with increasing altitude in some mountains. To test this prediction, we used one of the world's biodiversity hotspots as a study system to examine overall patterns of plant distribution shift in response to climate warming.

Location

The Hengduan Mountains and adjacent regions.

Methods

Based on distribution data for 151 species at a resolution of 2.5 arc minutes, we employed ecological niche modelling to model their distributions under the climatic conditions of the Last Glacial Maximum, Current (2017), and 2050 separately. We examined the distributional shifts of these species, especially with respect to altitude and range size, in response to two periods of stepwise climate warming.

Results

All the montane plants sampled shifted upward during the two warming stages, but not only northward, some shifted westward or in other directions. In contrast with the expected consistent loss of range when shifting upward, 63.6% of the plants expanded their range size continuously since the LGM. Only 11.9% of the plants contracted their range size continuously from the LGM to 2050. Estimates of species richness in the regions studied changed greatly, but in an unbalanced manner, from the LGM to the Current and from the Current to 2050.

Main conclusions

Numerous montane plants in the Hengduan Mountains are predicted to expand their range sizes as they shift upslope in response to climate warming. Our results highlight the possibility that more available land surface area due to the heterogeneous topography along altitudinal gradients and the adjacent large Qinghai‐Tibet Plateau sensu stricto can mediate the range loss of the montane plants under climate warming. These findings are crucial for estimating the future range sizes of plants and planning biodiversity protection for mountain ecosystems under the anticipated warming of the world's climate.
Post‐glacial East Asian origin of the alpine shrub Phyllodoce aleutica (Ericaceae) in Beringia
Authors: Ikeda Hajime , Yakubov Valentin , Barkalov Vyacheslav , Setoguchi Hiroaki
Published: April 2018

Aim

The ice‐free area around the Bering Land Bridge, Beringia, has been noted as an important refugium of organisms preferring cold environments such as arctic‐alpine plants throughout the Pleistocene climate oscillations. Although numerous phylogeographical studies have supported this refugium, recent studies have challenged the idea of a homogeneous refugium in Beringia. We aim to examine a novel scenario of the post‐glacial colonization history of an alpine plant Phyllodoce aleutica in Beringia.

Location

The Japanese Archipelago, the Kamchatka Peninsula, the Aleutian Islands, Alaska.

Method

The range‐wide genetic structure of P. aleutica was elucidated by sequencing 13 nuclear loci. The phylogeographical history was inferred using model‐based approaches based on coalescent simulations together with the potential distributions predicted by ecological niche modelling.

Results

Bayesian clustering and phylogenetic networks revealed that P. aleutica was divided into three geographically structured groups: the main island of the Japanese Archipelago, the northern island of the archipelago (Hokkaido) and Beringia, including eastern Hokkaido. The demographic history underlying the genetic structure and the potential distributions at present and during Last Glacial Maximum suggest that their divergence likely predated the last glacial period. Except for genetic admixture with the sister species Phyllodoce glanduliflora, populations in Alaska exhibited lower genetic diversity than those in East Asia and exclusively shared two widespread genotypes. Approximate Bayesian computation showed that a demographic model postulating post‐glacial expansion into Alaska fit better than alternative models.

Main conclusions

Our study suggests that P. aleutica in eastern Beringia originated through post‐glacial colonization from East Asia, providing novel insight into the biogeographical history of alpine flora in Beringia.
Oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of systemic scleroderma: An overview
Authors: Vona Rosa , Giovannetti Antonello , Gambardella Lucrezia , Malorni Walter , Pietraforte Donatella , Straface Elisabetta
Published: April 2018

Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a rare disorder of the connective tissue characterized by fibrosis of the skin, skeletal muscles and visceral organs. Additional manifestations include activation of the immune system and vascular injury. SSc causes disability and death as the result of end‐stage organ failure. Two clinical subsets of the SSc are accepted: limited cutaneous SSc (lc‐SSc) and diffuse cutaneous SSc (dc‐SSc). At present, the aetiology and pathogenesis of SSc remain obscure, and consequently, disease outcome is unpredictable. Numerous studies suggest that reactive oxidizing species (ROS) play an important role in the pathogenesis of scleroderma. Over the years, several reports have supported this hypothesis for both lc‐SSc and dc‐SSc, although the specific role of oxidative stress in the pathogenesis of vascular injury and fibrosis remains to be clarified. The aim of the present review was to report and comment the recent findings regarding the involvement and role of oxidative stress in SSc pathogenesis. Biomarkers proving the link between ROS and the main pathological features of SSc have been summarized.
Microenvironment‐induced PIM kinases promote CXCR4‐triggered mTOR pathway required for chronic lymphocytic leukaemia cell migration
Authors: Białopiotrowicz Emilia , Górniak Patryk , Noyszewska‐Kania Monika , Puła Bartosz , Makuch‐Łasica Hanna , Nowak Grażyna , Bluszcz Aleksandra , Szydłowski Maciej , Jabłonska Ewa , Piechna Karolina , Sewastianik Tomasz , Polak Anna , Lech‐Marańda Ewa , Budziszewska Bożena K. , Wasylecka‐Juszczyńska Maja , Borg Katarzyna , Warzocha Krzysztof , Czardybon Wojciech , Gałęzowski Michał , Windak Renata , Brzózka Krzysztof , Juszczyński Przemysław
Published: April 2018

Lymph node microenvironment provides chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (CLL) cells with signals promoting their survival and granting resistance to chemotherapeutics. CLL cells overexpress PIM kinases, which regulate apoptosis, cell cycle and migration. We demonstrate that BCR crosslinking, CD40 stimulation, and coculture with stromal cells increases PIMs expression in CLL cells, indicating microenvironment‐dependent PIMs regulation. PIM1 and PIM2 expression at diagnosis was higher in patients with advanced disease (Binet C vs. Binet A/B) and in those, who progressed after first‐line treatment. In primary CLL cells, inhibition of PIM kinases with a pan‐PIM inhibitor, SEL24‐B489, decreased PIM‐specific substrate phosphorylation and induced dose‐dependent apoptosis in leukaemic, but not in normal B cells. Cytotoxicity of SEL24‐B489 was similar in TP53‐mutant and TP53 wild‐type cells. Finally, inhibition of PIM kinases decreased CXCR4‐mediated cell chemotaxis in two related mechanisms‐by decreasing CXCR4 phosphorylation and surface expression, and by limiting CXCR4‐triggered mTOR pathway activity. Importantly, PIM and mTOR inhibitors similarly impaired migration, indicating that CXCL12‐triggered mTOR is required for CLL cell chemotaxis. Given the microenvironment‐modulated PIM expression, their pro‐survival function and a role of PIMs in CXCR4‐induced migration, inhibition of these kinases might override microenvironmental protection and be an attractive therapeutic strategy in this disease.