bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Population Exchange and its Impact on Literacy, Occupation and Gender – Evidence from the Partition of India
Authors: Bharadwaj Prashant , Khwaja Asim I. , Mian Atif
Published: May 2014

How do large scale, involuntary migrations and population exchanges affect sending and receiving communities? We examine the case of the partition of India in which approximately 17 million people moved within four years, resulting in one of the largest and most rapid population exchanges in human history. We find large effects due to the migration on a district's educational, occupational, and gender composition. Due to higher education levels amongst migrants, districts with 10 per cent greater inflows saw their literacy rates increase by 3 percentage points, while a 10 per cent increase in outflows reduced literacy by 1.2 percentage points. Due to disparities in the amount of land vacated by migrants, Indian districts with 10 per cent greater inflows saw a decline of 11 per centin agricultural occupations. Districts that experienced high inflows and outflows also experienced changes in gender composition. While the partition, driven along religious lines, increased religious homogenization within communities, our results suggest that this was accompanied by increased educational and occupational differences within religious groups. We conclude that these compositional effects, in addition to an aggregate population impact, are probably features of involuntary migrations and population exchanges and, as in the case of India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, can have important long‐term consequences.
Induction of protective effector immunity to prevent pathogenesis caused by the respiratory syncytial virus. Implications on therapy and vaccine design
Authors: Espinoza Janyra A. , Bueno Susan M. , Riedel Claudia A. , Kalergis Alexis M.
Published: May 2014

Human respiratory syncytial virus (hRSV) is the leading cause of respiratory illness in infants and young children around the globe. This pathogen, which was discovered in 1956, continues to cause a huge number of hospitalizations due to respiratory disease and it is considered a health and economic burden worldwide, especially in developing countries. The immune response elicited by hRSV infection leads to lung and systemic inflammation, which results in lung damage but is not efficient at preventing viral replication. Indeed, natural hRSV infection induces a poor immune memory that allows recurrent infections. Here, we review the most recent knowledge about the lifecycle of hRSV, the immune response elicited by this virus and the subsequent pathology induced in response to infection in the airways. Novel findings about the alterations that this virus causes in the central nervous system and potential therapies and vaccines designed to treat or prevent hRSV infection are discussed.
Transcriptional profiling reveals that C5a alters microRNA in brain endothelial cells
Authors: Eadon Michael T. , Jacob Alexander , Cunningham Patrick N. , Quigg Richard J. , Garcia Joe G. N. , Alexander Jessy J.
Published: May 2014

Blood–brain barrier (BBB) disturbance is a crucial occurrence in many neurological diseases, including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). Our previous studies showed that experimental lupus serum altered the integrity of the mouse brain endothelial layer, an important constituent of the BBB. Complement activation occurs in lupus with increased circulating complement components. Using a genomics approach, we identified the microRNA (miRNA) altered in mouse brain endothelial cells (bEnd3) by lupus serum and the complement protein, C5a. Of the 318 miRNA evaluated, 23 miRNAs were altered by lupus serum and 32 were altered by C5a alone compared with controls. Seven miRNAs (P < 0·05) were differentially expressed by both treatments: mmu‐miR‐133a*, mmu‐miR‐193*, mmu‐miR‐26b, mmu‐miR‐28*, mmu‐miR‐320a, mmu‐miR‐423‐3p and mmu‐miR‐509‐5p. The microarray results were validated by quantitative RT‐PCR. In line with the in vitro results, expression of miR‐26b and miR‐28* were also significantly up‐regulated in lupus mouse brain which was reduced by C5a receptor inhibition. Target prediction analysis revealed miR gene targets encoding components involved in inflammation, matrix arrangement, and apoptosis, pathways known to play important roles in central nervous system lupus. Our findings suggest that the miRNAs reported in this study may represent novel therapeutic targets in central nervous system lupus and other similar neuroinflammatory settings.
Poecilogony in the caenogastropod Calyptraea lichen (Mollusca: Gastropoda)
Authors: McDonald Kathryn A. , Collin Rachel , Lesoway Maryna P.
Published: May 2014

In marine invertebrates, polymorphism and polyphenism in mode of development are known as “poecilogony.” Understanding the environmental correlates of poecilogony and the developmental mechanisms that produce it could contribute to a better understanding of evolutionary transitions in mode of development. However, poecilogony is rare in marine invertebrates, with only ten recognized, well‐documented cases. Five examples occur in sacoglossan gastropods, and five occur in spionid polychaetes. Here, we document the eleventh case, and the first in a caenogastropod mollusc. Females of Calyptraea lichen collected in the field or reared in the laboratory often produce broods of planktotrophic larvae. They can also be collected with mixed broods, in which each capsule contains planktotrophic larvae, nurse embryos, and adelphophagic embryos. Adelphophages eat the nurse embryos and hatch as short‐lived lecithotrophic larvae, or even as juveniles. Mitochondrial COI and 16S DNA sequences for females with different types of broods differ by less than 0.5%, supporting conspecific status. Some females collected in the field with mixed broods subsequently produced planktotrophic broods, demonstrating that females can produce two different kinds of broods. Calyptraea lichen is therefore polyphenic in two ways: mode of development can vary among embryos within a capsule, and females can change the types of broods they produce.
Spring phenology and timing of breeding in short‐distance migrant birds: phenotypic responses and offspring recruitment patterns in common goldeneyes
Authors: Clark Robert G. , Pöysä Hannu , Runko Pentti , Paasivaara Antti
Published: May 2014

Understanding how organisms adjust breeding dates to exploit resources that affect fitness can provide insights into impacts of climate change on avian demography. For instance, mismatches have been reported in long‐distance migrant bird species when environmental cues experienced during spring migration are decoupled from conditions on breeding grounds. Short‐distance migrant bird species that store reproductive nutrients prior to breeding may avoid or buffer adverse phenological effects. Furthermore, reduced short‐term reproductive success could be offset by higher future recruitment of surviving offspring. We evaluated whether recruitment of locally‐hatched female offspring was related to hatching date alone or strength of mismatched breeding date for 405 individually‐marked adult female common goldeneyes Bucephala clangula (a short‐distance migrant) and their ducklings from a site in central Finland where ice‐out date has advanced by ∼ 2 weeks over 24 yr. Path analyses revealed that older, early‐nesting females with good body condition and larger broods recruited the most female offspring. Offspring recruitment decreased strongly among females that bred late relative to other females in the population each year; the extent of mismatched breeding date, i.e. hatching date scaled to annual ice‐out date, was less influential. Overall, most females advanced breeding dates when ice‐out occurred earlier in spring, but some females exhibited greater flexibility in response to ice‐out conditions than did others. In general, directional selection favoured early breeding over a wide range of ice‐out dates. Our results seem most consistent with a hypothesis that some short‐distance migrant species like goldeneyes have the capacity to track and respond appropriately to changing environmental conditions prior to onset of breeding.
ICH E14‐Compatible Holter Bin Method and its Equivalence to Individual Heart Rate Correction in the Assessment of Drug‐Induced QT Changes
Authors: MALIK MAREK , HNATKOVA KATERINA , KOWALSKI DONNA , KEIRNS JAMES J. , GELDEREN E. MARCEL VAN
Published: May 2014

E14‐Compatible Holter Bin and QTcI

Introduction

The Holter bin method evaluates QT interval changes in the presence of heart rate changes without correcting the QT interval. However, the method does not allow time‐matched comparisons, thus contradicting available guidance and good practice. We report a modification of the methods that allows time‐matched comparisons without any heart rate correction.

Methods and Results

The modified Holter bin method (a) finds matching baseline heart rates for each QT reading on treatment and (b) calculates ΔQT values from the QT intervals on baseline and on treatment that match in heart rates. The difference between ΔQT values on active treatment and placebo provides the ΔΔQT value. The method was compared with the individual correction method in the data of the mirabegron thorough QT study in which supratherapeutic doses of this β3‐adrenoceptor agonist led to substantial heart rate changes. The modified Holter bin method reproduced closely the results obtained with the individual heart rate correction. At all time points of the mirabegron study, the differences between the mean ΔΔQT values by the Holter bin method and the individual correction method were below 1 millisecond. Compared to the individual correction, the Holter bin method led to slight increases in the standard deviations of ΔΔQT values, but these were on average below 0.25 millisecond.

Conclusions

The Holter bin methodology can be modified to make it compatible with the available guidance and with good practice of clinical investigations. The results obtained with the modified Holter bin method are practically the same as with individualized heart rate corrected QT intervals. The close correspondence between the 2 methods demonstrates that the present possibilities of comparing QT interval duration in the presence of experiment‐induced heart rate differences are not influenced by methodological artifacts.
C/EBP transcription factors regulate NADPH oxidase in human aortic smooth muscle cells
Authors: Manea Simona‐Adriana , Todirita Andra , Raicu Monica , Manea Adrian
Published: May 2014

In atherosclerosis, oxidative stress‐induced vascular smooth muscle cells (SMCs) dysfunction is partially mediated by up‐regulated NADPH oxidase (Nox); the mechanisms of enzyme regulation are not entirely defined. CCAAT/enhancer‐binding proteins (C/EBP) regulate cellular proliferation and differentiation, and the expression of many inflammatory and immune genes. We aimed at elucidating the role of C/EBP in the regulation of Nox in SMCs exposed to pro‐inflammatory conditions. Human aortic SMCs were treated with interferon‐γ (IFN‐γ) for up to 24 hrs. Lucigenin‐enhanced chemiluminescence, real‐time PCR, Western blot, promoter‐luciferase reporter analysis and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were employed to investigate Nox regulation. IFN‐γ dose‐dependently induced Nox activity and expression, nuclear translocation and up‐regulation of C/EBPα, C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ protein expression levels. Silencing of C/EBPα, C/EBPβ or C/EBPδ reduced significantly but differentially the IFN‐γ‐induced up‐regulation of Nox activity, gene and protein expression. In silico analysis indicated the existence of typical C/EBP sites within Nox1, Nox4 and Nox5 promoters. Transient overexpression of C/EBPα, C/EBPβ or C/EBPδ enhanced the luciferase level directed by the promoters of the Nox subtypes. Chromatin immunoprecipitation demonstrated the physical interaction of C/EBPα, C/EBPβ and C/EBPδ proteins with the Nox1/4/5 promoters. C/EBP transcription factors are important regulators of Nox enzymes in IFN‐γ‐exposed SMCs. Activation of C/EBP may induce excessive Nox‐derived reactive oxygen species formation, further contributing to SMCs dysfunction and atherosclerotic plaque development. Pharmacological targeting of C/EBP‐related signalling pathways may be used to counteract the adverse effects of oxidative stress.
Treatment with Actovegin improves spatial learning and memory in rats following transient forebrain ischaemia
Authors: Meilin Sigal , Machicao Fausto , Elmlinger Martin
Published: May 2014

This study aimed to investigate whether Actovegin, which is a deproteinized ultrafiltrate derived from calf blood, demonstrates neuroprotective effects in a rat model of transient global cerebral ischaemia. Forty Sprague Dawley rats were subjected to four‐vessel occlusion to induce transient global cerebral ischaemia followed by either saline or Actovegin treatment. Sham operations were performed on 15 rats. Actovegin (200 mg/kg) or saline was administered 6 hrs after carotid artery occlusion and then daily until Day 40. Learning and memory were evaluated using the Morris water maze test over two different 5‐day periods, and grip strength testing was also performed to control for potential motor impairments. Rat brains were harvested for histological analysis on Day 68. In comparison to controls, Actovegin‐treated rats exhibited a decreased latency to reach the hidden platform on the second learning trial of water maze testing (46.82 ± 6.18 versus 27.64 ± 4.53 sec., P < 0.05; 38.3 ± 8.23 versus 13.37 ± 2.73 sec., P < 0.01 for the first and second 5‐day testing periods, respectively). In addition, Actovegin‐treated rats spent more time in the platform quadrant than saline‐treated rats during memory trials (P < 0.05). No differences in grip strength were detected. Histological analyses demonstrated increased cell survival in the CA1 region of the hippocampus following Actovegin treatment (left hemisphere, 166 ± 50 versus 332 ± 27 cells, P < 0.05; right hemisphere, 170 ± 45 versus 307 ± 28 cells, P < 0.05, in saline‐ versus Actovegin‐treated rats, respectively). In rats, Actovegin treatment improves spatial learning and memory following cerebral ischaemia, which may be related to hippocampal CA1 neuroprotection.
Evidence for adaptive divergence of thermal responses among Bemisia tabaci populations from tropical Colombia following a recent invasion
Authors: Díaz F. , Muñoz‐Valencia V. , Juvinao‐Quintero D. L. , Manzano‐Martínez M. R. , Toro‐Perea N. , Cárdenas‐Henao H. , Hoffmann A. A.
Published: May 2014

There is an increasing evidence that populations of ectotherms can diverge genetically in response to different climatic conditions, both within their native range and (in the case of invasive species) in their new range. Here, we test for such divergence in invasive whitefly Bemisia tabaci populations in tropical Colombia, by considering heritable variation within and between populations in survival and fecundity under temperature stress, and by comparing population differences with patterns established from putatively neutral microsatellite markers. We detected significant differences among populations linked to mean temperature (for survival) and temperature variation (for fecundity) in local environments. A QST − FST analysis indicated that phenotypic divergence was often larger than neutral expectations (QST > FST). Particularly, for survival after a sublethal heat shock, this divergence remained linked to the local mean temperature after controlling for neutral divergence. These findings point to rapid adaptation in invasive whitefly likely to contribute to its success as a pest species. Ongoing evolutionary divergence also provides challenges in predicting the likely impact of Bemisia in invaded regions.
Male interference with pollination efficiency in a hermaphroditic orchid
Authors: Duffy K. J. , Johnson S. D.
Published: May 2014

Hermaphroditism can lead to both intra‐ and intersexual conflict between male and female gender functions. However, the effect that such gender conflicts have on pollination efficiency has seldom been investigated. By artificially reducing the number of available male gametes on an individual, we quantified whether male interference with pollination efficiency occurs in the self‐compatible, moth‐pollinated orchid Satyrium longicauda. We partially emasculated S. longicauda inflorescences and compared pollination success and fecundity in these plants to intact controls. Pollen in both groups of plants was colour‐labelled so that its dispersal by pollinators could be tracked directly in the field. Intact flowers on partially emasculated inflorescences exported more pollen and received more cross‐pollen and less self‐pollen than those on intact inflorescences. Proportion of fruit set per plant was similar between the two treatments; however, fruits on partially emasculated plants had proportionally more viable seeds than those on intact controls. These results provide empirical evidence that male interference with pollination efficiency can occur in a hermaphroditic plant and that such interference can compromise fecundity. The most likely mechanism for such male interference is competition for placement on the proboscis of hawkmoth pollinators. Consequently, male competition for siring success may influence the evolution of sexual systems in hermaphroditic pollinator‐dependent plants.
Profile and Determinants of Successful Aging in the Ibadan Study of Ageing
Authors: Gureje Oye , Oladeji Bibilola D. , Abiona Taiwo , Chatterji Somnath
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To determine the profile and determinants of successful aging in a developing country characterized by low life expectancy and where successful agers may represent a unique group.

Design

Community‐based cohort study.

Setting

Eight contiguous states in the Yoruba‐speaking region of Nigeria.

Participants

A multistage clustered sampling of households was used to select a representative sample of individuals (N = 2,149) aged 65 and older at baseline. Nine hundred thirty were successfully followed for an average of 64 months between August 2003 and December 2009.

Measurements

Lifestyle and behavioral factors were assessed at baseline. Successful aging, defined using each of three models (absence of chronic health conditions, functional independence, and satisfaction with life), was assessed at follow‐up.

Results

Between 16% and 75% of respondents could be classified as successful agers using one of the three models while 7.5% could be so classified using a combination of all the models. Correlations between the three models were small, ranging from 0.08 to 0.15. Different features predicted their outcomes, suggesting that they represent relatively independent trajectories of aging. Whichever model was used, more men than women tended to be classified as aging successfully. Men who aged successfully, using a combination of all the three models, were more likely never to have smoked (adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 4.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.55–14.46) and to report, at baseline, having contacts with friends (aOR = 4.2, 95% CI = 1.0–18.76) or participating in community activities (aOR = 16.0, 95% CI = 1.23–204.40). In women, there was a nonlinear trend for younger age at baseline to predict this outcome.

Conclusion

Modifiable social and lifestyle factors predicted successful aging in this population, suggesting that health promotion targeting behavior change may lead to tangible benefits for health and well‐being in old age.
Time Providing Care Outside Visits in a Home‐Based Primary Care Program
Authors: Pedowitz Elizabeth J. , Ornstein Katherine A. , Farber Jeffrey , DeCherrie Linda V.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To assess how much time physicians in a large home‐based primary care (HBPC) program spend providing care outside of home visits. Unreimbursed time and patient and provider‐related factors that may contribute to that time were considered.

Design

Mount Sinai Visiting Doctors (MSVD) providers filled out research forms for every interaction involving care provision outside of home visits. Data collected included length of interaction, mode, nature, and with whom the interaction was for 3 weeks.

Setting

MSVD, an academic home‐visit program in Manhattan, New York.

Participants

All primary care physicians (PCPs) in MSVD (n = 14) agreed to participate.

Measurements

Time data were analyzed using a comprehensive estimate and conservative estimates to quantify unbillable time.

Results

Data on 1,151 interactions for 537 patients were collected. An average 8.2 h/wk was spent providing nonhome visit care for a full‐time provider. Using the most conservative estimates, 3.6 h/wk was estimated to be unreimbursed per full‐time provider. No significant differences in interaction times were found between patients with and without dementia, new and established patients, and primary‐panel and covered patients.

Conclusion

Home‐based primary care providers spend substantial time providing care outside home visits, much of which goes unrecognized in the current reimbursement system. These findings may help guide practice development and creation of new payment systems for HBPC and similar models of care.
Four Subtypes of Self‐Neglect in Older Adults: Results of a Latent Class Analysis
Authors: Burnett Jason , Dyer Carmel B. , Halphen John M. , Achenbaum W. A. , Green Charles E. , Booker James G. , Diamond Pamela M.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To determine whether there are subtypes of elder self‐neglect (SN) with different risk factors that can be targeted using medical and social interventions.

Design

Cohort study using archived data of Adult Protective Services (APS) substantiated cases of elder SN between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2008.

Setting

Houston, Harris County, Texas.

Participants

Adults aged 65 and older with APS region VI substantiated SN between January 1, 2004, and December 31, 2008 (N = 5,686).

Measurements

Adult Protective Services caseworkers used the Client Assessment and Risk Evaluation (CARE) tool during home investigations, assessing risk of harm in the domains of living conditions, financial status, physical and medical status, mental health, and social connectedness. Latent class analysis was used to identify unique subtypes of elder SN.

Results

Four unique subtypes of elder SN were identified, with approximately 50% of individuals manifesting physical and medical neglect problems. Other subtypes included environmental neglect (22%), global neglect (21%), and financial neglect (9%). Older age, Caucasian descent, and mental status problems were more strongly associated with global neglect behaviors. African Americans were more likely to experience financial and environmental neglect than Caucasians and non‐white Hispanics.

Conclusion

Elder SN consists of unique subtypes that may be amenable to customized multidisciplinary interventions. Future studies are needed to determine whether these subtypes impose differential mortality risks and whether multidisciplinary tailored interventions can reduce SN and prevent early mortality.
Knockdown of LjALD1, AGD2‐like defense response protein 1, influences plant growth and nodulation in Lotus japonicus
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Xueliu , Tian Lu , Wu Pingzhi , Li Meiru , Jiang Huawu , Chen Yaping , Wu Guojiang
Published: May 2014

The discovery of the enzyme L,L‐diaminopimelate aminotransferase (LL‐DAP‐AT, EC 2.6.1.83) uncovered a unique step in the L‐lysine biosynthesis pathway in plants. In Arabidopsis thaliana, LL‐DAP‐AT has been shown to play a key role in plant‐pathogen interactions by regulation of the salicylic acid (SA) signaling pathway. Here, a full‐length cDNA of LL‐DAP‐AT named as LjALD1 from Lotus japonicus (Regel) Larsen was isolated. The deduced amino acid sequence shares 67% identity with the Arabidopsis aminotransferase AGD2‐LIKE DEFENSE RESPONSE PROTEIN1 (AtALD1) and is predicted to contain the same key elements: a conserved aminotransferase domain and a pyridoxal‐5'‐phosphate cofactor binding site. Quantitative real‐time PCR analysis showed that LjALD1 was expressed in all L. japonicus tissues tested, being strongest in nodules. Expression was induced in roots that had been infected with the symbiotic rhizobium Mesorhizobium loti or treated with SA agonist benzo‐(1, 2, 3)‐thiadiazole‐7‐carbothioic acid. LjALD1 Knockdown exhibited a lower SA content, an increased number of infection threads and nodules, and a slight reduction in nodule size. In addition, compared with wild‐type, root growth was increased and shoot growth was suppressed in LjALD1 RNAi plant lines. These results indicate that LjALD1 may play important roles in plant development and nodulation via SA signaling in L. japonicus.
Changing a Dangerous Rural Cultural Tradition: A Randomized Control Study of Youth as Extra Riders on Tractors
Authors: Stoneman Zolinda , Jinnah Hamida Amirali , Rains Glen C.
Published: May 2014

Purpose

This study used a randomized control design to evaluate the effectiveness of AgTeen, an in‐home, family‐based farm safety intervention, in decreasing extra riding on tractors by youth. Having children as extra riders on tractors has deep roots in farm culture, but it can result in serious injury or death.

Methods

The study randomized 151 families into 3 groups: parent‐led intervention (fathers taught their families about farm safety), staff‐led intervention (staff members who were peer farmers taught families), and a no‐treatment control. Mothers, fathers, and all children aged 10‐19 participated in the lessons.

Findings

At study entry, 93% of youth reported that they had been an extra rider on a tractor in the past year. Although they were aware of the injury risk, fathers frequently gave tractor rides to their children. After the intervention, fathers in both AgTeen groups were less likely than control fathers to give youth tractor rides. Intervention youth were less likely than control youth to be extra riders. The intervention positively affected the extra‐riding attitudes and injury risk perceptions of mothers and fathers. The parent‐led and staff‐led groups did not significantly differ across study outcomes.

Conclusions

Findings confirm the effectiveness of a family‐based intervention in decreasing extra riding on tractors by youth.
A Subpubic Cartilaginous Cyst Causing Neurological and Sexual Symptoms in a 69-Year-Old Man
Authors: Wylie Kevan Richard , Griffiths Joshua , Pye Joanne , Salim Ferekh , Inman Richard
Published: May 2014

Introduction

Subpubic cartilaginous cysts (SCCs) are rare.

Aim

This is the first reported case of a male patient presenting with neurological and sexual symptoms due to an SCC.

Method

We describe the clinical history of a patient who reported neuralgic pain, numbness in the groin and base of his penis, and loss of sexual function.

Results

A magnetic resonance imaging revealed the presence of an SCC with associated mass effect. A conservative approach was adopted and within 12 months, the cyst had decreased in size and his symptoms had improved.

Conclusions

Men who present with erectile dysfunction and neurological symptoms merit a thorough assessment including appropriate investigation to exclude organic pathology.
Do red deer hinds prefer stags that produce harsh roars in mate choice contexts?
Authors: Charlton B. D. , Wyman M. T. , Locatelli Y. , Fitch W. T. , Reby D.
Published: May 2014

Red deer stags give two types of roars during the breeding season, termed ‘common’ and ‘harsh’ roars. This study tested the hypothesis that the characteristic spectro‐temporal structure of male harsh roars functions to directly attract females towards male callers during the breeding season. The results show that oestrous hinds look for longer towards speakers broadcasting sequences containing harsh roars, but do not preferentially approach or spend more time in close proximity to speakers broadcasting harsh roars over those broadcasting only common roars. While these observations confirm that the specific acoustic structure of male harsh roars functions to draw the attention of hinds, they are not consistent with the notion that these calls have an immediate impact on mate choice decisions by stimulating oestrous hinds to move towards male callers. Consequently, we suggest that intersexual selection through female mate choice is unlikely to be a major factor driving the evolution of male red deer harsh roars.
Interglacial microrefugia and diversification of a cactus species complex: phylogeography and palaeodistributional reconstructions for Pilosocereus aurisetus and allies
Authors: Bonatelli Isabel A. S. , Perez Manolo F. , Peterson A. Townsend , Taylor Nigel P. , Zappi Daniela C. , Machado Marlon C. , Koch Ingrid , Pires Adriana H. C. , Moraes Evandro M.
Published: May 2014

The role of Pleistocene climate changes in promoting evolutionary diversification in global biota is well documented, but the great majority of data regarding this subject come from North America and Europe, which were greatly affected by glaciation. The effects of Pleistocene changes on cold‐ and/or dry‐adapted species in tropical areas where glaciers were not present remain sparsely investigated. Many such species are restricted to small areas surrounded by unfavourable habitats, which may represent potential interglacial microrefugia. Here, we analysed the phylogeographic structure and diversification history of seven cactus species in the Pilosocereus aurisetus complex that are restricted to rocky areas with high diversity and endemism within the Neotropical savannas of eastern South America. We combined palaeodistributional estimates with standard phylogeographic approaches based on two chloroplast DNA regions (trnT‐trnL and trnS‐trnG), exon 1 of the nuclear gene PhyC and 10 nuclear microsatellite loci. Our analyses revealed a phylogeographic history marked by multiple levels of distributional fragmentation, isolation leading to allopatric differentiation and secondary contact among divergent lineages within the complex. Diversification and demographic events appear to have been affected by the Quaternary climatic cycles as a result of isolation in multiple patches of xerophytic vegetation. These small patches presently harbouring P. aurisetus populations seem to operate as microrefugia, both at present and during Pleistocene interglacial periods; the role of such microrefugia should be explored and analysed in greater detail.
Carotenoid metabolic profiling and transcriptome‐genome mining reveal functional equivalence among blue‐pigmented copepods and appendicularia
Authors: Mojib Nazia , Amad Maan , Thimma Manjula , Aldanondo Naroa , Kumaran Mande , Irigoien Xabier
Published: May 2014

The tropical oligotrophic oceanic areas are characterized by high water transparency and annual solar radiation. Under these conditions, a large number of phylogenetically diverse mesozooplankton species living in the surface waters (neuston) are found to be blue pigmented. In the present study, we focused on understanding the metabolic and genetic basis of the observed blue phenotype functional equivalence between the blue‐pigmented organisms from the phylum Arthropoda, subclass Copepoda (Acartia fossae) and the phylum Chordata, class Appendicularia (Oikopleura dioica) in the Red Sea. Previous studies have shown that carotenoid–protein complexes are responsible for blue coloration in crustaceans. Therefore, we performed carotenoid metabolic profiling using both targeted and nontargeted (high‐resolution mass spectrometry) approaches in four different blue‐pigmented genera of copepods and one blue‐pigmented species of appendicularia. Astaxanthin was found to be the principal carotenoid in all the species. The pathway analysis showed that all the species can synthesize astaxanthin from β‐carotene, ingested from dietary sources, via 3‐hydroxyechinenone, canthaxanthin, zeaxanthin, adonirubin or adonixanthin. Further, using de novo assembled transcriptome of blue A. fossae (subclass Copepoda), we identified highly expressed homologous β‐carotene hydroxylase enzymes and putative carotenoid‐binding proteins responsible for astaxanthin formation and the blue phenotype. In blue O. dioica (class Appendicularia), corresponding putative genes were identified from the reference genome. Collectively, our data provide molecular evidences for the bioconversion and accumulation of blue astaxanthin–protein complexes underpinning the observed ecological functional equivalence and adaptive convergence among neustonic mesozooplankton.
Disequilibrium, Reproduction and Money: a Classical Approach
Authors: Benetti Carlo , Bidard Christian , Klimovsky Edith , Rebeyrol Antoine
Published: May 2014

We consider a bisector reproduction model in which money is introduced as a pure means of exchange issued by a bank at the producers' requests. Each capitalist aims at maximizing accumulation in his own sector. Their plans are based on available quantities and expected prices. Effective prices are determined by a market mechanism. Temporary disequilibria occur in both physical and monetary terms. The settlement of the monetary balances is operated by means of a transfer of capital goods. Final allocations and effective productions are thus determined. The dynamics of the economy are those of a sequence of temporary disequilibria and let appear several possibilities (local or global stability, cycles) depending on the values of the parameters.
Whales sustain fisheries: Blue whales stimulate primary production in the Southern Ocean
Authors: Lavery Trish J. , Roudnew Ben , Seymour Justin , Mitchell James G. , Smetacek Victor , Nicol Steve
Published: May 2014

It has previously been asserted that baleen whales compete with fisheries by consuming potentially harvestable marine resources. The regularly applied “surplus‐yield model” suggests that whale prey becomes available to fisheries if whales are removed, and has been presented as a justification for whaling. However, recent findings indicate that whales enhance ecosystem productivity by defecating iron that stimulates primary productivity in iron‐limited waters. While juvenile whales and whales that are pregnant or lactating retain iron for growth and milk production, nonbreeding adult whales defecate most of the iron they consume. Here, we modify the surplus‐yield model to incorporate iron defecation. After modeling a simplistic trajectory of blue whale recovery to historical abundances, the traditional surplus‐yield model predicts that 1011 kg of carbon yr−1 would become unavailable to fisheries. However, this ignores the nutrient recycling role of whales. Our model suggests the population of blue whales would defecate 3 × 106 kg of iron yr−1, which would stimulate primary production equivalent to that required to support prey consumption by the blue whale population. Thus, modifying the surplus‐yield model to include iron defecation indicates that blue whales do not render marine resources unavailable to fisheries. By defecating iron‐rich feces, blue whales promote Southern Ocean productivity, rather than reducing fishery yields.
Multi‐scale analysis of the associations among egg, larval and pupal surveys and the presence and abundance of adult female Aedes aegypti (Stegomyia aegypti) in the city of Merida, Mexico
Authors: MANRIQUE‐SAIDE P. , COLEMAN P. , MCCALL P. J. , LENHART A. , VÁZQUEZ‐PROKOPEC G. , DAVIES C. R.
Published: May 2014

Despite decades of research, there is still no agreement on which indices of Aedes aegypti (Stegomyia aegypti) (Diptera: Culicidae) presence and abundance better quantify entomological risk for dengue. This study reports the results of a multi‐scale, cross‐sectional entomological survey carried out in 1160 households in the city of Merida, Mexico to establish: (a) the correlation between levels of Ae. aegypti presence and abundance detected with aspirators and ovitraps; (b) which immature and egg indices correlate with the presence and abundance of Ae. aegypti females, and (c) the correlations amongst traditional Aedes indices and their modifications for pupae at the household level and within medium‐sized geographic areas used for vector surveillance. Our analyses show that ovitrap positivity was significantly associated with indoor adult Ae. aegypti presence [odds ratio (OR) = 1.50; P = 0.03], that the presence of pupae is associated with adult presence at the household level (OR = 2.27; P = 0.001), that classic Aedes indices are informative only when they account for pupae, and that window screens provide a significant level of protection against peridomestic Ae. aegypti (OR = 0.59; P = 0.02). Results reinforce the potential of using both positive collections in outdoor ovitraps and the presence of pupae as sensitive indicators of indoor adult female presence.
“Doing the month”: Postpartum practices in Chinese women
Authors: Liu Yan Qun , Petrini Marcia , Maloni Judith A.
Published: May 2014

This review describes the traditional ancient Chinese postpartum practice of “doing the month” or “zuoyuezi”, the evidence for specific practices, maternal adherence to practices, and their effect upon the maternal postpartum physical and psychological health. A comprehensive search yielded 38 English or Chinese publications about common practices, adherence to practices, and their effects upon Chinese women's physical and psychological health. Doing the month involves a series of practices related to the maternal role, physical activity, maintenance of body warmth, and food consumption that are believed to restore maternal postpartum health and prevent future disease. Strengths of these practices include acknowledgment of the woman's societal and familial contribution to childbearing and the provision of consistent family support. There is concern for the effect of some practices upon both maternal physical and psychological health, particularly for postpartum depression. Current evidence about the effects of doing‐the‐month practices upon maternal health needs to be integrated into the traditional practices of doing the month to improve maternal health.
Glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase is regulated by ferredoxin‐NADP reductase in the diatom Asterionella formosa
Authors: Mekhalfi Malika , Puppo Carine , Avilan Luisana , Lebrun Régine , Mansuelle Pascal , Maberly Stephen C. , Gontero Brigitte
Published: May 2014

Diatoms are a widespread and ecologically important group of heterokont algae that contribute c. 20% to global productivity. Previous work has shown that regulation of their key Calvin cycle enzymes differs from that of the Plantae, and that in crude extracts, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) can be inhibited by nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate reduced (NADPH) under oxidizing conditions.

The freshwater diatom, Asterionella formosa, was studied using enzyme kinetics, chromatography, surface plasmon resonance, mass spectrometry and sequence analysis to determine the mechanism behind this GAPDH inhibition.

GAPDH interacted with ferredoxin–nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADP) reductase (FNR) from the primary phase of photosynthesis, and the small chloroplast protein, CP12. Sequences of copurified GAPDH and FNR were highly homologous with published sequences. However, the widespread ternary complex among GAPDH, phosphoribulokinase and CP12 was absent. Activity measurements under oxidizing conditions showed that NADPH can inhibit GAPDH‐CP12 in the presence of FNR, explaining the earlier observed inhibition within crude extracts.

Diatom plastids have a distinctive metabolism, including the lack of the oxidative pentose phosphate pathway, and so cannot produce NADPH in the dark. The observed down‐regulation of GAPDH in the dark may allow NADPH to be rerouted towards other reductive processes contributing to their ecological success.
Biogeochemical impacts of wildfires over four millennia in aRockyMountain subalpine watershed
Authors: Dunnette Paul V. , Higuera Philip E. , McLauchlan Kendra K. , Derr Kelly M. , Briles Christy E. , Keefe Margaret H.
Published: May 2014

Wildfires can significantly alter forest carbon (C) storage and nitrogen (N) availability, but the long‐term biogeochemical legacy of wildfires is poorly understood.

We obtained a lake‐sediment record of fire and biogeochemistry from a subalpine forest inColorado,USA, to examine the nature, magnitude, and duration of decadal‐scale, fire‐induced ecosystem change over the pastc. 4250 yr. The high‐resolution record contained 34 fires, including 13 high‐severity events within the watershed.

High‐severity fires were followed by increased sedimentaryNstable isotope ratios (δ15N) and bulk density, and decreasedCandNconcentrations – reflecting forest floor destruction, terrestrialCandNlosses, and erosion. Sustained low sedimentC : Nc. 20–50 yr post‐fire indicates reduced terrestrial organic matter subsidies to the lake. Low sedimentary δ15Nc. 50–70 yr post‐fire, coincident withCandNrecovery, suggests diminishing terrestrialNavailability during stand development. The magnitude of post‐fire changes generally scaled directly with inferred fire severity.

Our results support modern studies of forest successionalCandNaccumulation and indicate pronounced, long‐lasting biogeochemical impacts of wildfires in subalpine forests. However, even repeated high‐severity fires over millennia probably did not depleteCorNstocks, because centuries between high‐severity fires allowed for sufficient biomass recovery.
Grey leaves in an alpine plant: a cryptic colouration to avoid attack?
Authors: Niu Yang , Chen Gao , Peng De‐Li , Song Bo , Yang Yang , Li Zhi‐Min , Sun Hang
Published: May 2014

Cryptic colouration is a common predation‐avoidance strategy in animals that is postulated to occur in plants, but few experimental studies have rigorously tested this hypothesis.

We investigated the colouration of Corydalis benecincta, an alpine plant with remarkably dimorphic leaf colours (grey and green), based on a cost–benefit analysis. First we tested the premise that herbivores (Parnassius butterflies) cannot distinguish grey leaves from a scree background by spectrographic measurements and by estimating discriminability between leaves and scree using a butterfly colour vision model. Then we estimated the potential costs of inconspicuousness by comparing the photosynthetic performance and visual attractiveness to flower visitors of the two colour morphs. Finally, we examined the potential benefits of inconspicuousness by comparing damage, survivorship and female reproductive success.

It is difficult for herbivores to distinguish grey‐coloured morphs against the background. This grey colour originates in a combination of anthocyanins and chlorophylls. The two colour morphs had similar photosynthetic performance, visual attractiveness and female reproductive success. However, grey morphs had significantly lower herbivore damage and higher survivorship.

Grey leaves benefit C. benecincta by reducing herbivory with low investment in anthocyanin synthesis, and little cost on photosynthesis and mating opportunity. This cryptic colouration may have evolved through selection pressure imposed by visually foraging herbivores.
Conflicts of interest in psychiatry: Strategies to cultivate literacy in daily practice
Authors: Shimazawa Rumiko , Ikeda Masayuki
Published: May 2014

The relationship between psychiatry and pharmaceutical companies has come under scrutiny during the past decade. Concerns are growing that financial ties of psychiatrists to the pharmaceutical industry may unduly influence professional judgments involving the primary interests of patients. Such conflicts of interest threaten the public trust in psychiatry. The goal of conflict of interest policies is to protect the integrity of professional judgment and to preserve public trust. The disclosure of individual and institutional financial relationships is a critical but limited first step in the process of identifying and responding to conflicts of interest. Conflict of interest policies and procedures can be strengthened by engaged psychiatrists, researchers, institutions, and professional associations in developing policies and consensus standards. Research on conflicts of interest can provide a stronger evidence base for policy design and implementation. Society has traditionally granted the medical profession considerable autonomy and may be willing to continue do so in the case of conflicts of interest. Nevertheless, concern is growing that stronger measures are needed. To avoid undue regulatory burdens, psychiatrists can play a vital role in designing responsible and reasonable conflict of interest policies that reduce the risks of bias and the loss of trust. Psychiatrists and the institutions that carry out research, education, clinical care, and practice guideline development must recognize public concerns about conflicts of interest and take effective measures soon to maintain public trust with a cultural change in the practice of psychiatry, from reactive treatment‐seeking for mental illness to proactive advocacy for patients.
The blue light receptor Phototropin 1 suppresses lateral root growth by controlling cell elongation
Authors: Moni A. , Lee A.‐Y. , Briggs W. R. , Han I.‐S.
Published: May 2014

We investigated the relationship between the blue light receptor phototropin 1 (phot1) and lateral root growth in Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings. Fluorescence and confocal microscopy images, as well as PHOT1 mRNA expression studies provide evidence that it is highly expressed in the elongation zone of lateral roots where auxin is accumulating. However, treatment with the auxin transport inhibitor N‐1‐naphthylphthalamic acid significantly reduced PHOT1 expression in this zone. In addition, PHOT1 expression was higher in darkness than in light. The total number of lateral roots was higher in the phot1 mutant than in wild‐type Arabidopsis. Cells in the elongation zone of lateral roots of the phot1 mutant were longer than those of wild‐type lateral roots. These findings suggest that PHOT1 plays a role(s) in elongation of lateral roots through the control of an auxin‐related signalling pathway.
Impact of pulmonary hypertension on exercise performance in patients with interstitial lung disease undergoing evaluation for lung transplantation
Authors: Armstrong Hilary F. , Schulze P. Christian , Bacchetta Matthew , Thirapatarapong Wilawan , Bartels Matthew N.
Published: May 2014

Background and objective

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a known complication in patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). Cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) is an essential tool for the assessment of patients with cardiac and pulmonary diseases due to its prognostic and therapeutic implications. Few studies have evaluated the relationship between CPET response and mean pulmonary artery pressures (mPAP) in ILD. The purpose of the present study was to determine and compare the potential correlations between CPET, 6‐min walk test (6MWT), pulmonary function testing (PFT) and PH in patients with ILD being evaluated for lung transplantation.

Methods

The present study reviewed patients with ILD who received lung transplantations and had CPETs within 2 years before transplantation, right heart catheterizations, PFTs and 6MWTs within 4 months of CPET.

Results

A total of 72 patients with ILD were analysed; 36% had PH. There were significant correlations between mPAP and CPET parameters in patients with PH; but mPAP had no impact on percent of predicted diffusion capacity of the lung for carbon monoxide or 6‐min walk distance (6MWD). CPET parameters were able to detect differences between levels of severity of PH through the use of the ratio of minute ventilation to rate of carbon dioxide production () and the partial pressure of end‐tidal carbon dioxide.

Conclusions

This is the first study that analyses 6MWD, PFT and CPET in patients with ILD awaiting lung transplantation with and without PH. The present study demonstrates the significant impact of PH on exercise capacity and performance in patients with ILD awaiting lung transplantation.