bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of a D-xylose fermenting and inhibitor tolerant industrial Saccharomyces cerevisiae strain with high performance in lignocellulose hydrolysates using metabolic and evolutionary engineering
Authors: Demeke Mekonnen M , Dietz Heiko , Li Yingying , Foulquié-Moreno María R , Mutturi Sarma , Deprez Sylvie , Den Abt Tom , Bonini Beatriz M , Liden Gunnar , Dumortier Françoise , Verplaetse Alex , Boles Eckhard , Thevelein Johan M
Published: June 2013

Background

The production of bioethanol from lignocellulose hydrolysates requires a robust, D-xylose-fermenting and inhibitor-tolerant microorganism as catalyst. The purpose of the present work was to develop such a strain from a prime industrial yeast strain, Ethanol Red, used for bioethanol production.

Results

An expression cassette containing 13 genes including Clostridium phytofermentans XylA, encoding D-xylose isomerase (XI), and enzymes of the pentose phosphate pathway was inserted in two copies in the genome of Ethanol Red. Subsequent EMS mutagenesis, genome shuffling and selection in D-xylose-enriched lignocellulose hydrolysate, followed by multiple rounds of evolutionary engineering in complex medium with D-xylose, gradually established efficient D-xylose fermentation. The best-performing strain, GS1.11-26, showed a maximum specific D-xylose consumption rate of 1.1 g/g DW/h in synthetic medium, with complete attenuation of 35 g/L D-xylose in about 17 h. In separate hydrolysis and fermentation of lignocellulose hydrolysates of Arundo donax (giant reed), spruce and a wheat straw/hay mixture, the maximum specific D-xylose consumption rate was 0.36, 0.23 and 1.1 g/g DW inoculum/h, and the final ethanol titer was 4.2, 3.9 and 5.8% (v/v), respectively. In simultaneous saccharification and fermentation of Arundo hydrolysate, GS1.11-26 produced 32% more ethanol than the parent strain Ethanol Red, due to efficient D-xylose utilization. The high D-xylose fermentation capacity was stable after extended growth in glucose. Cell extracts of strain GS1.11-26 displayed 17-fold higher XI activity compared to the parent strain, but overexpression of XI alone was not enough to establish D-xylose fermentation. The high D-xylose consumption rate was due to synergistic interaction between the high XI activity and one or more mutations in the genome. The GS1.11-26 had a partial respiratory defect causing a reduced aerobic growth rate.

Conclusions

An industrial yeast strain for bioethanol production with lignocellulose hydrolysates has been developed in the genetic background of a strain widely used for commercial bioethanol production. The strain uses glucose and D-xylose with high consumption rates and partial cofermentation in various lignocellulose hydrolysates with very high ethanol yield. The GS1.11-26 strain shows highly promising potential for further development of an all-round robust yeast strain for efficient fermentation of various lignocellulose hydrolysates.
Altered molecular repertoire of immune system by renal dysfunction in the elderly: is prediction and targeted prevention in the horizon?
Authors: Lang Cheng-Lin , Wang Min-Hui , Hung Kuan-Yu , Chiang Chih-Kang , Lu Kuo-Cheng
Published: June 2013

Background

Patients on chronic hemodialysis (HD) have impaired cellular and humoral immunity. The percentage of elderly people among the total population in Taiwan is increasing dramatically, and HD is the primary alternative for renal replacement therapy when renal function declines. Activated vitamin D is widely used in HD patients with secondary hyperparathyroidism (SHPT) and is a well-known immunomodulatory agent. Personalized medicine and integrative medical approach has been a trend in current clinical practice. Can we improve their immune function using vitamin D in spite of the mineral aspect? Here, we investigated the relationship between serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) level and T cell differentiation in chronic HD patients.

Methods

Forty patients with chronic HD were enrolled. HD patients with SHPT had been treated with activated vitamin D for 3 months. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells obtained from the patients were cultured and stimulated by mitogens, and T cells were analyzed by flow cytometry. Serum 25(OH)D levels were detected by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results

The incidence of T cell differentiation to the T helper cell (Th)2 subtype was more prevalent in the elderly group than in the controls (p = 0.001). Th2 differentiation was also correlated with age (p = 0.004) and serum 25(OH)D levels (p < 0.05). After treated with activated vitamin D, the level of Th1 cytokines decreased while the Th2 cytokine level increased in the sera (p < 0.05). The T cell differentiation tended toward the Th2 subtype (p = 0.027) after treatment of activated vitamin D in SHPT patients.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that Th2 differentiation is correlated with age and the serum 25(OH)D level of patients. Treatment with activated vitamin D influenced T cell differentiation and cytokine expression in SHPT patients. Taking vitamin D is the possible prediction and targeted treatment in the immune dysfunction in chronic HD patients.
Use of mixed-treatment-comparison methods in estimating efficacy of treatments for heavy menstrual bleeding
Authors: Hoaglin David C , Filonenko Anna , Glickman Mark E , Wasiak Radek , Gidwani Risha
Published: June 2013

Background

A variety of pharmacological and surgical treatments have been developed for heavy menstrual bleeding (HMB), which can have negative physical, social, psychological, and economic consequences. We conducted a systematic literature review and mixed-treatment-comparison (MTC) meta-analysis of available data from randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to derive estimates of efficacy for 8 classes of treatments for HMB, to inform health-economic analysis and future studies.

Methods

A systematic review identified RCTs that reported data on menstrual blood loss (MBL) at baseline and one or more follow-up times. Eight treatment classes were considered: COCs, danazol, endometrial ablation, LNG-IUS, placebo, progestogens given for less than 2 weeks out of 4 during the menstrual cycle, progestogens given for close to 3 weeks out of 4, and TXA. The primary measure of efficacy was the proportion of women who achieved MBL < 80 mL per cycle (month), as measured by the alkaline hematin method. A score less than 100 on an established pictorial blood-loss assessment chart (PBAC) was considered an acceptable substitute for MBL < 80 mL. Estimates of efficacy by treatment class and time were obtained from a Bayesian MTC model. The model also included effects for treatment class, study, and the combination of treatment class and study and an adjustment for baseline mean MBL. Several methodological challenges complicated the analysis. Some trials reported various summary statistics for MBL or PBAC, requiring estimation (with less precision) of % MBL < 80 mL or % PBAC < 100. Also, reported follow-up times varied substantially.

Results

The evidence network involved 34 RCTs, with follow-up times from 1 to 36 months. Efficacy at 3 months of follow-up (estimated as the posterior median) ranged from 87.5% for the levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) to 14.2% for progestogens administered for less than 2 weeks out of 4 in the menstrual cycle. The 95% credible intervals for most estimates were quite wide, mainly because of the limited evidence for many combinations of treatment class and follow-up time and the uncertainty from estimating % MBL < 80 mL or % PBAC < 100 from summary statistics.

Conclusions

LNG-IUS and endometrial ablation are very efficacious in treating HMB. The study yielded useful insights on using MTC in sparse evidence networks. Diversity of outcome measures and follow-up times in the HMB literature presented considerable challenges. The Bayesian credible intervals reflected the various sources of uncertainty.
Impact of closed-system drug transfer device on exposure of environment and healthcare provider to cyclophosphamide in Japanese hospital
Authors: Miyake Tomohiro , Iwamoto Takuya , Tanimura Manabu , Okuda Masahiro
Published: June 2013

In spite of current recommended safe handling procedures, the potential for the exposure of healthcare providers to hazardous drugs exists in the workplace. A reliance on biological safety cabinets to provide total protection against the exposure to hazardous drugs is insufficient. Preventing workplace contamination is the best strategy to minimize cytotoxic drug exposure in healthcare providers. This study was conducted to compare surface contamination and personnel exposure to cyclophosphamide before and after the implementation of a closed-system drug transfer device, PhaSeal, under the influence of cleaning according to the Japanese guidelines. Personnel exposure was evaluated by collecting 24 h urine samples from 4 pharmacists. Surface contamination was assessed by the wiping test. Four of 6 wipe samples collected before PhaSeal indicated a detectable level of cyclophosphamide. About 7 months after the initiation of PhaSeal, only one of 6 wipe samples indicated a detectable level of cyclophosphamide. Although all 4 employees who provided urine samples had positive results for the urinary excretion of cyclophosphamide before PhaSeal, these levels returned to minimal levels in 2 pharmacists after PhaSeal. In combination with the biological safety cabinet and cleaning according to the Japanese guidelines, PhaSeal further reduces surface contamination and healthcare providers exposure to cyclophosphamide to almost undetectable levels.
Comparisons between intragastric and small intestinal delivery of enteral nutrition in the critically ill: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deane Adam M , Rupinder Dhaliwal , Day Andrew G , Ridley Emma J , Davies Andrew R , Heyland Daren K
Published: June 2013

Introduction

The largest cohort of critically ill patients evaluating intragastric and small intestinal delivery of nutrients was recently reported. This systematic review included recent data to compare the effects of small bowel and intragastric delivery of enteral nutrients in adult critically ill patients.

Methods

This is a systematic review of all randomised controlled studies published between 1990 and March 2013 that reported the effects of the route of enteral feeding in the critically ill on clinically important outcomes.

Results

Data from 15 level-2 studies were included. Small bowel feeding was associated with a reduced risk of pneumonia (Relative Risk, RR, small intestinal vs. intragastric: 0.75 (95% confidence interval 0.60 to 0.93); P = 0.01; I2 = 11%). The point estimate was similar when only studies using microbiological data were included. Duration of ventilation (weighted mean difference: -0.36 days (-2.02 to 1.30); P = 0.65; I2 = 42%), length of ICU stay (WMD: 0.49 days, (-1.36 to 2.33); P = 0.60; I2 = 81%) and mortality (RR 1.01 (0.83 to 1.24); P = 0.92; I2 = 0%) were unaffected by the route of feeding. While data were limited, and there was substantial statistical heterogeneity, there was significantly improved nutrient intake via the small intestinal route (% goal rate received: 11% (5 to 16%); P = 0.0004; I2 = 88%).

Conclusions

Use of small intestinal feeding may improve nutritional intake and reduce the incidence of ICU-acquired pneumonia. In unselected critically ill patients other clinically important outcomes were unaffected by the site of the feeding tube.
A fast butterfly algorithm for generalized Radon transforms
Authors: Hu Jingwei , Fomel Sergey , Demanet Laurent , Ying Lexing
Published: June 2013

Generalized Radon transforms, such as the hyperbolic Radon transform, cannot be implemented as efficiently in the frequency domain as convolutions, thus limiting their use in seismic data processing. We have devised a fast butterfly algorithm for the hyperbolic Radon transform. The basic idea is to reformulate the transform as an oscillatory integral operator and to construct a blockwise low-rank approximation of the kernel function. The overall structure follows the Fourier integral operator butterfly algorithm. For 2D data, the algorithm runs in complexity [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] depends on the maximum frequency and offset in the data set and the range of parameters (intercept time and slowness) in the model space. From a series of studies, we found that this algorithm can be significantly more efficient than the conventional time-domain integration.
Estimation of bubble time period for air-gun clusters using potential isosurfaces
Authors: Barker Daniel , Landrø Martin
Published: June 2013

We evaluated a method of estimating the relative bubble time period of air-gun clusters with an arbitrary number of guns. This was done by assuming incompressible flow and representing the bubbles as isosurfaces of the potential field to account for coalescence. The kinetic energy at the equilibrium radius was then compared to the equivalent energy of the single gun to estimate the relative change. The results agreed well with two-gun cluster measurements, but the lack of data does not allow us to compare with clusters containing more guns than that. We found that more compact configurations, such as a triangle instead of three guns in a line, gave a more rapid increase in the bubble time period as the gun separation decreased. This indicated that compact configurations were attractive for enhancing the low-frequency output from an air-gun cluster.
Theoretical and experimental examinations of the capacitively coupled resistivity (line antenna) method
Authors: Niu Qifei , Wang Yu-Hsing
Published: June 2013

The capacitively coupled (CC) resistivity method is an emerging geophysical technique for near-surface investigations. However, there are two major problems associated with using the CC resistivity (line antenna) system in ground investigations. These two problems are (1) the geometrical factor and (2) measurement biases. We first derive the geometric factor for the line-antenna array in a dipole-dipole configuration. The new expression of the geometric factor considers the separation between the two current (and the two potential) line antennas, thereby improving the accuracy of the measured apparent resistivity. Second, from the electroquasistatic point of view, a quadruline model that can describe the characteristics of the CC resistivity (line antenna) system is derived based on the previously published quadrupole model. The validity of the quadruline model is verified experimentally. Based on the quadruline model, it is found that the dielectric properties of the line-to-ground capacitor and the ground permittivity produce measurement bias at low and high current frequencies, respectively. If the operating current frequency is around the kHz range and the ground resistivity is relatively high, such as in permafrost areas, the ground permittivity can also create measurement bias to cause the actual value to be underestimated. The experimental results and the predictions by the quadruline model suggest that the measurement bias induced by the gap between the line antenna and the ground surface becomes significant and cannot be ignored as the gap height is large and the associated ground resistivity is low. In general, the CC resistivity (line antenna) measurements are not biased by the gap effect when the gap height is less than 0.01 m, which can easily be achieved for tests on flat ground.
Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Signaling-Dependent Calcium Elevation in Cumulus Cells Is Required for NPR2 Inhibition and Meiotic Resumption in Mouse Oocytes
Authors: Wang Yakun , Kong Nana , Li Na , Hao Xiaoqiong , Wei Kaiwen , Xiang Xi , Xia Guoliang , Zhang Meijia
Published: June 2013

In preovulatory ovarian follicles, the oocyte is maintained in meiotic prophase arrest by natriuretic peptide precursor C (NPPC) and its receptor natriuretic peptide receptor 2 (NPR2). LH treatment results in the decrease of NPR2 guanylyl cyclase activity that promotes resumption of meiosis. We investigated the regulatory mechanism of LH-activated epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor signaling on NPR2 function. Cumulus cell-oocyte complex is cultured in the medium with 30 nM NPPC to prevent oocyte spontaneous maturation. In this system, EGF could stimulate oocyte meiotic resumption after 4 hours of incubation. Further study showed that EGF elevated intracellular calcium concentrations of cumulus cells and decreased cGMP levels in cumulus cells and oocytes, and calcium-elevating reagents ionomycin and sphingosine-1-phosphate mimicked the effects of EGF on oocyte maturation and cGMP levels. EGF-mediated cGMP levels and meiotic resumption could be reversed by EGF receptor inhibitor AG1478 and the calcium chelator bis-(o-aminophenoxy)-ethane-N,N,N′,N′-tetraacetic acid, tetra(acetoxymethyl)-ester. EGF also decreased the expression of Npr2 mRNA in cumulus cells, which may not be involved in meiotic resumption, because the block of NPR2 protein de novo synthesis by cycloheximide had no effect on NPPC and EGF-mediated oocyte maturation. However, EGF had no effect on oocyte maturation when meiotic arrest was maintained in the present of cGMP analog 8-bromoadenosine-cGMP. These results suggest that EGF receptor signaling induces meiotic resumption by elevating calcium concentrations of cumulus cells to decrease NPR2 guanylyl cyclase activity.
The maintenance of the subsurface chlorophyll maximum in the stratified western Irish Sea
Authors: Williams Charlotte , Sharples Jonathan , Green Mattias , Mahaffey Claire , Rippeth Tom
Published: June 2013

Lay Abstract

One fundamental aim of marine science is to be able to accurately quantify and predict how mixing in the ocean can affect primary production and the global carbon budget. Shelf seas are the boundary between the coastal regions and the deep ocean. They are important areas for fisheries, as well as for the absorption of carbon from the atmosphere by microscopic organisms called phytoplankton. Phytoplankton living in the well lit surface layer of temperate shelf seas (between latitudes 23.5° and 66.5°) during summer rely on the turbulent supply of nutrients to sustain their growth. By using an instrument that is able to measure fine‐scale ocean currents, we are able to quantify mixing rates in the ocean. The chemical analysis of nutrients in seawater combined with these physical measurements allowed us to quantify the turbulent supply of nutrients from the deep ocean to surface water where phytoplankton live and thus estimate the importance of various mixing mechanisms to biological processes. In the western Irish Sea, we found that, for primary production to be maintained during summer, relatively large‐scale mixing events must take place to supply the nutrients required by phytoplankton. The background mixing rate does not supply sufficient nutrients to phytoplankton, and thus storms, enhanced tidal mixing, or both are likely to be vital in sustaining primary production in this marine ecosystem.
Dmdmdx/Largemyd: a new mouse model of neuromuscular diseases useful for studying physiopathological mechanisms and testing therapies
Authors: Martins Poliana C. M. , Ayub-Guerrieri Danielle , Martins-Bach Aurea B. , Onofre-Oliveira Paula , Malheiros Jackeline M. , Tannus Alberto , de Sousa Paulo L. , Carlier Pierre G. , Vainzof Mariz
Published: June 2013

Although muscular dystrophies are among the most common human genetic disorders, there are few treatment options available. Animal models have become increasingly important for testing new therapies prior to entering human clinical trials. The DMDmdx mouse is the most widely used animal model for Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD), presenting the same molecular and protein defect as seen in humans with the disease. However, this mouse is not useful for clinical trials, because of its very mild phenotype. The mouse model for congenital myodystrophy type 1D, Largemyd, harbors a mutation in the glycosyltransferase Large gene and displays a severe phenotype. To help elucidate the role of the proteins dystrophin and LARGE in the organization of the dystrophin-glycoprotein complex in muscle sarcolemma, we generated double-mutant mice for the dystrophin and LARGE proteins. The new DMDmdx/Largemyd mouse model is viable and shows a severe phenotype that is associated with the lack of dystrophin in muscle. We tested the usefulness of our new mouse model for cell therapy by systemically injecting them with normal murine mesenchymal adipose stem cells (mASCs). We verified that the mASCs were hosted in the dystrophic muscle. The new mouse model has proven to be very useful for the study of several other therapies, because injected cells can be screened both through DNA and protein analysis. Study of its substantial muscle weakness will also be very informative in the evaluation of functional benefits of these therapies.
Mutant Enpp1asj mice as a model for generalized arterial calcification of infancy
Authors: Li Qiaoli , Guo Haitao , Chou David W. , Berndt Annerose , Sundberg John P. , Uitto Jouni
Published: June 2013

Generalized arterial calcification of infancy (GACI), an autosomal recessive disorder, is characterized by early mineralization of blood vessels, often diagnosed by prenatal ultrasound and usually resulting in demise during the first year of life. It is caused in most cases by mutations in the ENPP1 gene, encoding an enzyme that hydrolyzes ATP to AMP and inorganic pyrophosphate, the latter being a powerful anti-mineralization factor. Recently, a novel mouse phenotype was recognized as a result of ENU mutagenesis - those mice developed stiffening of the joints, hence the mutant mouse was named 'ages with stiffened joints' (asj). These mice harbor a missense mutation, p.V246D, in the Enpp1 gene. Here we demonstrate that the mutant ENPP1 protein is largely absent in the liver of asj mice, and the lack of enzymatic activity results in reduced inorganic pyrophosphate (PPi) levels in the plasma, accompanied by extensive mineralization of a number of tissues, including arterial blood vessels. The progress of mineralization is highly dependent on the mineral composition of the diet, with significant shortening of the lifespan on a diet enriched in phosphorus and low in magnesium. These results suggest that the asj mouse can serve as an animal model for GACI.
Drosophila rae1 is required for male meiosis and spermatogenesis
Authors: Volpi S. , Bongiorni S. , Fabbretti F. , Wakimoto B.T. , Prantera G.
Published: June 2013

Previous studies of RAE1, a conserved WD-40 protein, in S. pombe and the mouse revealed a role in mRNA export and cell cycle progression in mitotic cells. Studies of RAE1 in Drosophila showed that the protein localizes to the nuclear envelope and is required for progression through the G1 phase of the cell cycle but not RNA export in tissue culture cells. Drosophila RAE1 also plays an essential developmental role, as it is required for viability and synaptic growth regulation as a component of an E3 ubiquitin ligase complex. Here we describe characterization of a new Drosophila rae1 mutant that permits viability but results in male sterility. The mutant showed striking defects in primary spermatocyte nuclear integrity, meiotic chromosome condensation, segregation, and spindle morphology. These defects led to a failure to complete meiosis but allowed several aspects of spermatid differentiation to proceed, including axoneme formation and elongation. A GFP-RAE1 fusion protein that rescued most of the cytological defects showed a dynamic localization to the nuclear envelope, chromatin, and other structures depending on the stage of spermatogenesis. A role for RAE1 in male meiosis, as well as mitotic cells, was also indicated by the defects induced by expression of rae1-RNAi. These studies with Drosophila RAE1 provide the first evidence for an essential meiotic role, and thus define RAE1 as a protein required for both meiotic and mitotic cell cycles.
TNFα-induced lysosomal membrane permeability (LMP) is downstream of MOMP and triggered by caspase-mediated p75 cleavage and ROS formation
Authors: Huai Jisen , Vögtle F.-Nora , Jöckel Lars , Li Yunbo , Kiefer Thomas , Ricci Jean-Ehrland , Borner Christoph
Published: June 2013

When NF-κB activation or protein synthesis is inhibited, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNFα) can induce apoptosis via Bax/Bak-mediated mitochondrial outer membrane permeabilization (MOMP) leading to caspase-3 activation. Additionally, previous studies have implicated lysosomal membrane permeability (LMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as early steps of TNFα-induced apoptosis. However, how these two events connect to MOMP and caspase-3 activation has been largely debated. Here we present the novel finding that TNFα/cycloheximide (CHX)-induced LMP, the release of lysosomal cathepsins and ROS formation do not occur upstream but downstream of MOMP and require the caspase-3-mediated cleavage of the p75 NDUFS1 subunit of respiratory complex I. Both a caspase non-cleavable p75 mutant and the mitochondrially localized antioxidant MitoQ prevent TNFα/CHX-induced LMP and partially interfere with apoptosis induction. Moreover, LMP is completely blocked in Bax/Bak-/-, Apaf-1-/-, caspase-9-/- and caspase-3/7-/- cells. Thus, after MOMP, active caspase-3 exerts a feedback action on complex I to produce ROS. ROS then provoke LMP, cathepsin release and further caspase activation to amplify TNFα apoptosis signaling.
Muscle growth in teleost fish is regulated by factors utilizing the activin II B receptor
Authors: Phelps Michael P. , Jaffe Ian M. , Bradley Terence M.
Published: June 2013

The activin type IIB receptor (Acvr2b) is the cell surface receptor for multiple transforming growth factor β (TGF-β) superfamily ligands, several of which regulate muscle growth in mammals. To investigate the role of the Acvr2b signaling pathway in the growth and development of skeletal muscle in teleost fish, transgenic rainbow trout (RBT; Oncorhynchus mykiss, Walbaum) expressing a truncated form of the acvr2b-2a (acvr2bΔ) in muscle tissue were produced. High levels of acvr2bΔ expression were detected in the majority of P1 transgenic fish. Transgenic P1 trout developed enhanced, localized musculature in both the epaxial and hypaxial regions (dubbed "six pack"). The F1 transgenic offspring did not exhibit localized muscle growth, but rather developed a uniform body morphology with greater girth, condition factor, and increased muscle fiber hypertrophy. There was a high degree of variation in the weight of both P1 and F1 transgenic fish with several fish of each generation exhibiting enhanced growth compared to other transgenic and control siblings. The "six pack" phenotype observed in P1 transgenic RBT overexpressing a acvr2bΔ and the presence of F1 individuals with altered muscle morphology provides compelling evidence for the importance of TGF-β signaling molecules in regulating muscle growth in teleost fish.
Social descent with territory loss causes rapid behavioral, endocrine, and transcriptional changes in the brain
Authors: Maruska Karen P. , Becker Lisa , Neboori Anoop , Fernald Russell D.
Published: June 2013

In social species that form hierarchies where only dominant males reproduce, lower-ranking individuals may challenge higher-ranking ones, often resulting in changes in relative social status. How does a losing animal respond to loss of status? Here, using an African cichlid fish Astatotilapia burtoni, we manipulated the social environment causing males to descend in rank and then examined changes in behavior, circulating steroids, and immediate early gene (IEG) expression (cfos, egr-1) in micro-dissected brain regions as a proxy for neuronal activation. In particular, we examined changes in the conserved 'social behavior network' (SBN), a collection of brain nuclei known to regulate social behaviors across vertebrates. A. burtoni has rapidly reversible dominant-subordinate male phenotypes, so that within minutes, descending males lost their bright body-coloration, switched to submissive behaviors, and expressed higher plasma cortisol levels compared to non-descending and control males. Descending males had higher IEG expression throughout the SBN, but each brain region showed a distinct IEG-specific response in either cfos or egr-1 levels, but not both. Overall SBN IEG patterns in descending males were distinctly different from the pattern observed in males ascending (subordinate to dominant) in social status. These results reveal that the SBN rapidly coordinates the perception of social cues about status that are of opposite valence, and translates them into appropriate phenotypic changes. This shows for the first time in a non-mammalian vertebrate that dropping in social rank rapidly activates specific socially-relevant brain nuclei in a pattern that differs from when males rise to a higher status position.
The gene vitellogenin affects microRNA regulation in honey bee (Apis mellifera) fat body and brain
Authors: Nunes Francis M. F. , Ihle Kate E. , Mutti Navdeep S. , Simões Zilá L. P. , Amdam Gro V.
Published: June 2013

In honey bees, Vitellogenin (Vg) is hypothesized to be a major factor affecting hormone signaling, food-related behavior, immunity, stress resistance and lifespan. Likewise microRNAs play important roles in posttranscriptional gene regulation and affect many biological processes. The action of microRNAs and Vg are known to intersect in the context of reproduction; however, the role of these associations on social behavior is unknown. The phenotypic effects of Vg knockdown are best established and studied in the forager stage of workers. Thus, we exploited the well-established RNA interference (RNAi) protocol for Vg knockdown to investigate its downstream effects on microRNA population in honey bee foragers' brain and fat body tissue. To identify microRNAs that are differentially expressed between tissues in control and knockdown foragers, we used µParaflo® microfluidic oligonucleotide microRNA microarrays. Our results show 76 and 74 microRNAs were expressed in the brain of control and knockdown foragers whereas 66 and 69 microRNAs were expressed in the fat body of control and knockdown foragers respectively. Target prediction identified potential seed matches for a differentially expressed subset of microRNAs affected by Vg knockdown. These candidate genes are involved in a broad range of biological processes including insulin signaling, juvenile hormone (JH) and ecdysteroid signaling previously shown to affect foraging behavior. Thus, here we demonstrate a causal link between the Vg knockdown forager phenotype and variation in the abundance of microRNAs in different tissues with possible consequences for regulation of foraging behavior.
Homing abilities of the Australian intertidal ant, Polyrhachis sokolova
Authors: Narendra Ajay , Raderschall Chloe , Robson Simon
Published: June 2013

The pressure of returning and locating the nest after a successful foraging trip is immense in ants. To find their way back home, ants use a number of different strategies (e.g., path integration, trail-following) and rely on a range of cues (e.g., pattern of polarised skylight, landmark panorama) available in their environment. How ants weigh different cues has been a question of great interest and has primarily been addressed in the desert ants from Africa and Australia. We here identify the navigational abilities of an intertidal ant, Polyrhachis sokolova that lives on mudflats where nests and foraging areas are frequently inundated with tidal water. We find that these solitary foraging ants rely heavily on visual landmark information for navigation but they are also capable of path integration. By displacing ants with and without vector information at different locations within the local familiar territory we created conflicts between information from the landmarks and the path integrator. The homing success of full-vector ants, compared to the zero-vector ants, when displaced 5 m behind the feeder indicate that vector information had to be coupled with landmark information for successful homing. To explain the differences in the homing abilities of ants from different locations we determined the navigational information content at each release station and compared it to that available at the feeder location. We report here the interaction of multiple navigation strategies in the context of the information content in the environment.
Physiological and behavioural effects of fruit toxins on seed-predating versus seed-dispersing congeneric rodents
Authors: Samuni-Blank Michal , Izhaki Ido , Dearing Denise , Karasov William , Gerchman Yoram , Kohl Kevin , Lymberakis Petros , Kurnath Patrice , Arad Zeev
Published: June 2013

Fleshy, ripe fruits attract seed dispersers but also seed predators. Although many fruit consumers (legitimate seed dispersers as well as seed predators) are clearly exposed to plant secondary compounds (PSCs), their impact on the consumers’ physiology and foraging behaviour has been largely overlooked. Here, we document the divergent behavioural and physiological responses of three congeneric rodent species in the Middle East, seed dispersers versus seed predators, to fruit consumption. The fruit pulp of the desert plant Ochradenus baccatus contains high concentrations of glucosinolates (GLSs). These GLSs are hydrolyzed into active toxic compounds upon contact with the myrosinase enzyme released from seeds crushed during fruit consumption. Acomys russatus and A. cahirinus share a desert habitat. Acomys russatus acts as an O. baccatus seed predator, and A. cahirinus circumvents the activation of the GLSs by orally expelling vital seeds. We found that between the three species examined, A. russatus was physiologically most tolerant to whole fruit consumption and even A. minous, which is evolutionarily naïve to O. baccatus, exhibits greater tolerance to whole fruit consumption than A. cahirinus. However, like A. cahirinus, A. minous may also behaviourally avoid the activation of the GLSs by making a hole in the pulp and consuming only the seeds. Our findings demonstrate that seed predators have a higher physiological tolerance than seed dispersers when consuming fruits containing toxic PSCs. The findings also demonstrate the extreme ecological/evolutionary ability of this plant-animal symbiosis to shift from predation to mutualism and vice versa.
Electroporation of adherent cells with low sample volumes on a microscope stage
Authors: Tsugiyama Harunobu , Okimura Chika , Mizuno Takafumi , Iwadate Yoshiaki
Published: June 2013

The labeling of specific molecules and their artificial control in living cells are powerful techniques for investigating intracellular molecular dynamics. To use these techniques, molecular compounds (hereinafter described simply as "samples") need to be loaded into cells. Electroporation techniques are exploited to load membrane-impermeant samples into cells. Here, we developed a new electroporator with four special characteristics: (1) Electric pulses are applied to the adherent cells directly, without removing them from the substratum. (2) Samples can be loaded into the adherent cells while observing them on the stage of an inverted microscope. (3) Only 2 μl of sample solution is sufficient. (4) The device is very easy to use, since the cuvette, which is connected to the tip of a commercially available auto-pipette, is manipulated by hand. Using our device, we loaded a fluorescent probe of actin filaments, Alexa Fluor 546 phalloidin, into migrating keratocytes. The level of this probe in the cells could be easily adjusted by changing its concentration in the electroporation medium. Samples could be loaded into keratocytes, neutrophil-like HL-60 cells and Dictyostelium cells on a coverslip, and keratocytes on an elastic silicone substratum. The new device should be useful for a wide range of adherent cells and allow electroporation for cells on various types of the substrata.
Hard Magnetic Ferrite: ε-Fe2O3
Authors: Ohkoshi Shin-ichi , Tokoro Hiroko
Published: June 2013

Iron oxide Fe2O3 has four polymorphs: α-, β-, γ-, and ε-phases. α-Fe2O3 (hematite) and γ-Fe2O3 (maghemite) are abundant in nature, whereas β- and ε-Fe2O3 phases are very rare and must be artificially synthesized in the laboratory. Pure ε-Fe2O3 phase was first synthesized in 2004 using a combination of reverse-micelle and sol–gel techniques, and it shows the largest coercive field value (Hc) among metal oxide-based magnets of 20 kOe at room temperature. Successively, several kinds of metal-substituted ε-iron oxides, ε-MxFe2−xO3 (M = In, Ga, and Al), have been synthesized, and their magnetic properties are controlled by the degree of the metal substitution. Such iron oxides with a high Hc are attractive from industrial application viewpoints, e.g., magnetic recordings and electromagnetic wave absorbers. A series of ε-MxFe2−xO3 shows high-frequency electromagnetic wave absorption due to zero-field ferromagnetic resonance at 35–182 GHz in the millimeter range, which is useful for next-generation high-speed wireless communications. In this article, we describe (i) the synthesis, crystal structure, and magnetic properties of ε-Fe2O3, (ii) generation mechanism of ε-Fe2O3, the origin of the gigantic coercive field, and theoretical analysis of magnetic ordering, (iii) metal-substituted ε-iron oxides, ε-MxFe2−xO3, and (iv) electromagnetic wave absorption in the millimeter wave range.
Catalytic Alkane Oxidation by Homogeneous and Silica-supported Cobalt(II) Complex Catalysts with a Triazolyl Group-containing Tetradentate Ligand
Authors: Nakazawa Jun , Yata Akinori , Hori Tomoaki , Stack T Daniel P , Naruta Yoshinori , Hikichi Shiro
Published: June 2013

Homogeneous and heterogeneous cobalt complex catalysts with bis(pyridylmethyl)(triazolylmethyl)amine ligand were prepared. Although simple cobalt salts catalyze cyclohexane oxidation with mCPBA, the cyclohexane selectivity increases upon coordination of tetradentate ligands. In the heterogeneous catalysis, the yield and selectivity of cyclohexanol are improved with an increase in the ligand density on the silica support due to the suppression of metal leaching.
How Deep Are the Roots of Economic Development?
Authors: Spolaore Enrico , Wacziarg Romain
Published: June 2013

The empirical literature on economic growth and development has moved from the study of proximate determinants to the analysis of ever deeper, more fundamental factors, rooted in long-term history. A growing body of new empirical work focuses on the measurement and estimation of the effects of historical variables on contemporary income by explicitly taking into account the ancestral composition of current populations. The evidence suggests that economic development is affected by traits that have been transmitted across generations over the very long run. This article surveys this new literature and provides a framework to discuss different channels through which intergenerationally transmitted characteristics may impact economic development, biologically (via genetic or epigenetic transmission) and culturally (via behavioral or symbolic transmission). An important issue is whether historically transmitted traits have affected development through their direct impact on productivity, or have operated indirectly as barriers to the diffusion of productivity-enhancing innovations across populations. (JEL J11, O33, O47, Z13)
What's the Good of the Market? An Essay on Michael Sandel's What Money Can't Buy
Authors: Besley Timothy
Published: June 2013

This essay will discuss the criticisms of the economic approach to markets offered by Michael Sandel's What Money Can't Buy. After reviewing the main arguments, the essay looks at these from three main angles. First, it relates them to different traditions of thinking about markets and their achievements that have been developed by economists. Second, it discusses the idea that markets can change values as argued by Sandel in light of recent related literature in economics. Third, it discusses some of the literature on alternatives to using the market to allocate resources and the pros and cons of these. (JEL A11, A13, D40, D63, P10)
Bounded-Rationality Models: Tasks to Become Intellectually Competitive
Authors: Harstad Ronald M , Selten Reinhard
Published: June 2013

Research in experimental economics has cogently challenged the fundamental precept of neoclassical economics that economic agents optimize. The last two decades have seen elaboration of boundedly rational models that try to move away from the optimization approach, in ways consistent with experimental findings. Nonetheless, the collection of alternative models has made little headway supplanting the dominant paradigm. We delineate key ways in which neoclassical microeconomics holds continuing and compelling advantages over bounded-rationality models, and suggest, via a few examples, the sorts of further, difficult pushes that would be needed to redress this state of affairs. Closer collaboration between theoretic modeling and experiments is clearly seen to be necessary. (JEL B40, C72, C90, D01, D21)
Sea-cliff Erosion with Rising Sea-Level along Shores Exposing Glacial Material in Atlantic Canada: The Effect of Bedrock Slope and an Example from Isle Madame, Nova Scotia
Authors: Force Eric R.
Published: June 2013

Rapid retreat rates of sea cliffs exposing glacial material are a widespread problem, especially in Atlantic Canada, and one that will continue. Prediction of retreat rates at specific sites involves many variables, but a factor that has commonly been overlooked in such prediction is the slope of the bedrock surface under the glacial material. A glaciated bedrock platform is generally necessary to establish a stable situation of temporary equilibrium, and as sea-level rises, the bedrock slope determines the location of the new equilibrium position. An example from Nova Scotia shows that bedrock slope is so low on some coasts that the only long-range limiting factor is kinetic, i.e. how fast hydrodynamic energy can remove glacial material. Prediction of coastal retreat scenarios requires better information on the bedrock surface than is commonly available.SOMMAIRELes taux de retrait rapide des falaises qui exposent des matériaux glaciaires est un problème très répandu et qui va perdurer, surtout dans le Canada atlantique. La prévision des taux de retrait sur des sites spécifiques comporte de nombreuses variables et, la pente du substratum rocheux sur lequel reposent ces matériaux glaciaires et une variable qui a souvent été négligée. L’existence d’un substratum rocheux glacié est généralement une condition nécessaire pour l’établissement d’une situation d'équilibre stable temporaire, et lorsque le niveau de la mer monte, la pente du substratum rocheux a une influence déterminante sur le lieu de la nouvelle position d'équilibre. Un exemple en Nouvelle-Écosse montre que la pente du substratum rocheux est si faible sur certaines côtes que le seul facteur déterminant à long terme est la cinétique, c'est-à-dire la vitesse d’abrasion du matériau glaciaire correspondant à l’énergie hydrodynamique. La prévision des scénarios de retrait de la ligne côtière requière une meilleure connaissance du substratum rocheux.
Health-related behaviors among the Lublin Province population
Authors: Sitarz Robert , Kolasińska-Bzoma Małgorzata , Kolasińska-Gliwa Ewa J. , Kurylcio Andrzej , Mielko Jerzy , Polkowski Wojciech P. , Maciejewski Ryszard
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Awareness of risk factors that induce the formation and development of cancer is an important element in the fight against cancer. Appropriate health-related behavior may limit the formation and development of cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight, physical activity, abstinence from alcohol and healthy diet are the main preventive measures, not only in the prevention of cancer.
Aim. The aim of the research was to explore the state of knowedge about health behaviors of the Lublin Province population.
Material and methods. The study included 1352 respondents presenting with different reasons to their family doctor. The research tool was a questionnaire, while the research method was a diagnostic survey. The questions concerned different aspects of a healthy lifestyle.
Results. Our study showed that the population of the Lublin Province has insufficient and incomplete knowledge about health behaviors. Log-linear analysis showed that the statistically significant factors in maintaining a healthy weight, physical activity, abstinence from alcohol and diet are the interactions of age, education, place of residence and gender.
Conclusions. The conclusions of the survey confirmed that there is an urgent need to raise awareness about healthy behaviors. Activities aimed at promoting a healthy lifestyle must include gender, social, economic and cultural habits.
The level of satisfaction with nursing care among patients hospitalized in the Neurosurgery ward
Authors: Frankiewicz Anna , Lelonek Barbara
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Patient satisfaction survey of hospital stay is a common method to assess quality of care. It is a valuable way to prevent iatrogenic errors, mistakes and verify the quality of medical services. Thanks to the surveys the therapeutic team obtains information on the level of care exercised by them, identifies the needs and expectations of the patients, and helps in solving their problems.

Aim. The aim of this study was to assess patients’ satisfaction with nursing care in the neurosurgery ward in Provincial Hospital in Kielce.
Material and methods. The work is an attempt to assess the level of satisfaction with medical care. The study was conducted in the Provincial Hospital in Kielce, in the Ward of Neurosurgery in the first half of 2010. The study involved 52 patients. They joined the study on a voluntary basis. The tool used in this study is a survey questionnaire by Helena Lenartowicz for evaluating patient’s satisfaction with nursing care.
Conclusions. It was found that the level of satisfaction with nursing care in the Provincial Hospital in the Department of Neurosurgery is high. Patients are satisfied with the stay and the provided nursing care. Almost all of the respondents would recommend the hospital to their relatives and friends due to the high level of care. Nurses working in the Neurosurgery ward are very nice and friendly. Patients are informed of their rights while in hospital. During all nursing and therapeutic treatments privacy is guaranteed. The meals aren’t varied enough; they are tasteless and served in too different intervals. Religious and spiritual needs of patients hospitalized in the ward are provided almost to everyone (98%).
The influence of elective cesarean section on Apgar score
Authors: Słotwińska Anna , Zalewski Maciej , Heimrath Jerzy , Zalewski Jerzy ,   Department of Gynaecology, Medical University of Wrocław, Poland
Published: June 2013

Introduction. Over the past years an upward tendency to perform caesarean operations has been noticed all over the world. In our country, the number of these surgical interventions has also exceeded the recommended 15% a long time ago. Complex and multifactorial causes of this situation range from ethical aspects through a more liberal approach towards the implications for caesarean section to an increased number of caesarean sections done at the mother’s request
Aim. This paper is aimed at analyzing the afterbirth condition of newborn babies born by caesarean section and at comparing their condition with that of babies born by vaginal birth. The assumption was to obtain better Apgar scores by babies born by vaginal birth in comparison with babies born by caesarian section.
Material and methods. This paper contains a statistical comparison of Apgar scores measured in the first and the tenth minute of a newborn’s life. The research compares 150 cases of babies born by vaginal birth and selected 150 babies born by caesarean section.
Results. The babies born naturally had better Apgar scores in the first minute of their life in comparison to babies born by caesarean. In the tenth minute of their life a statistical difference between the two groups was not maintained.
Conclusions. The findings show that in cases of unthreatened pregnancies the better solution is to terminate pregnancy by natural birth.