bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Transcriptome profiling of the testis reveals genes involved in spermatogenesis and marker discovery in the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Wei D. , Li H‐M. , Yang W‐J. , Wei D‐D. , Dou W. , Huang Y. , Wang J‐J.
Published: September 2014

The testis is a highly specialized tissue that plays a vital role in ensuring fertility by producing spermatozoa, which are transferred to the female during mating. Spermatogenesis is a complex process, resulting in the production of mature sperm, and involves significant structural and biochemical changes in the seminiferous epithelium of the adult testis. The identification of genes involved in spermatogenesis of Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) is critical for a better understanding of its reproductive development. In this study, we constructed a cDNA library of testes from male B. dorsalis adults at different ages, and performed de novo transcriptome sequencing to produce a comprehensive transcript data set, using Illumina sequencing technology. The analysis yielded 52 016 732 clean reads, including a total of 4.65 Gb of nucleotides. These reads were assembled into 47 677 contigs (average 443 bp) and then clustered into 30 516 unigenes (average 756 bp). Based on BLAST hits with known proteins in different databases, 20 921 unigenes were annotated with a cut‐off E‐value of 10−5. The transcriptome sequences were further annotated using the Clusters of Orthologous Groups, Gene Orthology and the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases. Functional genes involved in spermatogenesis were analysed, including cell cycle proteins, metalloproteins, actin, and ubiquitin and antihyperthermia proteins. Several testis‐specific genes were also identified. The transcripts database will help us to understand the molecular mechanisms underlying spermatogenesis in B. dorsalis. Furthermore, 2913 simple sequence repeats and 151 431 single nucleotide polymorphisms were identified, which will be useful for investigating the genetic diversity of B. dorsalis in the future.
Analysis of developmentally regulated chorion gene promoter architecture via electroporation of silk moth follicles
Authors: Tsatsarounos S. P. , Rodakis G. C. , Lecanidou R.
Published: September 2014

In the silk moth Bombyx mori, chorion genes of the same developmental specificity are organized in divergently transcribed α/β gene pairs, sharing a common 5′ flanking promoter region. This bidirectional promoter contains a complete set of cis‐elements responsible for developmentally accurate gene expression. In the present paper, based on the observation that Bombyx chorion gene promoters contain cis‐elements for the same transcription factors without concrete evidence on which of them are essential, we address the question as to how promoter architecture (number, orientation and position of common factor binding sites) facilitates developmentally accurate chorion gene regulation. To this end, we constructed several mutated promoter regions of an early‐middle gene pair and cloned them upstream of a reporter gene to introduce these plasmid constructs into silk moth follicle epithelial cells via electroporation as an efficient and quick method for transient expression. This is the first time that an ex vivo method had been applied to test the impact of systematic cis‐element mutations on a chorion gene promoter. Our results confirmed the importance of the HMGA factor and the role of the GATA factor as an early repressor, and led to a more detailed understanding of which C/EBP sites participate in the regulation of early‐middle chorion gene expression.
Political Economy of Climate Compatible Development: Artisanal Fisheries and Climate Change in Ghana
Authors: Tanner Thomas , Mensah Adelina , Lawson Elaine T. , Gordon Chris , Godfrey‐Wood Rachel , Cannon Terry
Published: September 2014

Interest in prospects for policy processes that contribute to development, climate change adaptation and mitigation, known as ‘climate compatible development’, has been growing in response to increasing awareness of the impacts of climate change. This paper provides insight into the complex political economy of climate compatible development in Ghana's artisanal fisheries, a sector that has received comparatively little attention in climate change literature and policy processes. It focuses on two contentious policy areas where there is potential for climate compatible development, namely the subsidized premix fuel provided to artisanal fishermen, and mangrove protection. Regarding the premix subsidy, while there is theoretical scope for a ‘triple win’ outcome by removing the subsidy to reduce incentives to unsustainable fishing and supporting alternative policies, in practice this is highly problematic. Artisanal fishermen strongly oppose removing the subsidy on the grounds that it would damage their livelihoods, and do not have the confidence that they would be appropriately compensated for any hypothetical reform. Moreover, it is argued that removing it could have negative unintended consequences if fishermen are forced into alternative livelihoods that are themselves unsustainable. There is, however, a need to make considerable improvements to the distribution of the premix fuel so that it reaches the intended beneficiaries and is not siphoned off for contraband. Meanwhile, although improved mangrove protection could have significant ‘triple‐win’ benefits, this area suffers from a lack of funding and administrative coordination across ministries and agencies, leading it to be neglected. The case studies reveal, therefore, that the major constraint to climate compatible development is institutional failing, rather than a lack of policies per se. The paper emphasizes the need to conceptualize climate compatible development as a process which is dynamic across space and time, such that potential for triple win outcomes is fluctuate to vary according to changing circumstances. It is necessary to recognize, furthermore, that pressures from a number of actors, including those at the grass roots, may demand short term improvements to current problems rather than aspiring to triple win outcomes in the long term, creating a major challenge for climate compatible development.
Cameron: The first cut
Authors: Seldon Anthony
Published: September 2014

Exclusive to Juncture, political historian and biographer Anthony Seldon offers his first take on the Cameron premiership, and contends that the Conservative leader will be judged well when viewed against an unprecedented set of challenges and constraints.
Freedom of inclination: On the republican theory of liberty
Authors: Skinner Quentin
Published: September 2014

Historian Quentin Skinner revisits the history of republican conceptions of liberty, and draws challenging conclusions about how we should apply them to our present constitutional arrangements, including reforming the House of Lords and stripping the prime minister of their prerogative powers.
Those good old boys: The end of trust in our political elites, and its consequences
Authors: Barnett Anthony
Published: September 2014

Far from embracing ‘popular sovereignty’, Anthony Barnett argues that Britain's political elites have long fostered an institutional culture that perpetuates and legitimises their arbitrary powers. Now that popular trust in that culture has eroded away, what next for liberty and democracy?
Europe's other democracy problem: The challenge of protecting democracy and the rule of law within EU member states
Authors: Müller Jan‐Werner
Published: September 2014

Recent events in Hungary have exposed another ‘democratic deficit’ in the EU, writes Jan‐Werner Müller. To defend liberal democracy throughout the Union, European institutions need more effective means of checking undemocratic behaviour among its member states than just the idle threat of suspension.
Enhanced Piezoelectric Properties of Tetragonal (Bi1/2K1/2)TiO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics by Substitution of Pure Bi‐Based Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3
Authors: Pan Zhao , Wang Qi , Chen Jun , Liu Chuang , Fan Longlong , Liu Laijun , Fang Liang , Xing Xianran
Published: September 2014

Crystal structure, piezoelectric, and dielectric properties were investigated in the new lead‐free BKT‐based piezoelectric ceramics of (1−x)(Bi1/2K1/2)TiO3‐xBi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3. The morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) of the system between tetragonal and rhombohedral phases lies near the composition of x = 0.02. The optimal piezoelectric property of small‐signal d33 is much enhanced to be 96 pC/N (x = 0.01), which is higher than any other BKT‐based compositions. By the introduction of Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3, the ceramics exhibit a lower coercive field EC. In addition, a relaxor‐like behavior with a frequency‐dependent Curie temperature Tm is observed, and high Curie temperature Tm around 380°C is obtained in the investigated system. This study suggests that the piezoelectric properties of BKT can be significantly improved by the means of Bi(Mg2/3Nb1/3)O3 substitution.
The isothiocyanate erucin abrogates telomerase in hepatocellular carcinoma cells in vitro and in an orthotopic xenograft tumour model of HCC
Authors: Herz Corinna , Hertrampf Anke , Zimmermann Stefan , Stetter Nadine , Wagner Meike , Kleinhans Claudia , Erlacher Miriam , Schüler Julia , Platz Stefanie , Rohn Sascha , Mersch‐Sundermann Volker , Lamy Evelyn
Published: September 2014

In contrast to cancer cells, most normal human cells have no or low telomerase levels which makes it an attractive target for anti‐cancer drugs. The small molecule sulforaphane from broccoli is known for its cancer therapeutic potential in vitro and in vivo. In animals and humans it was found to be quickly metabolized into 4‐methylthiobutyl isothiocyanate (MTBITC, erucin) which we recently identified as strong selective apoptosis inducer in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells. Here, we investigated the relevance of telomerase abrogation for cytotoxic efficacy of MTBITC against HCC. The drug was effective against telomerase, independent from TP53 and MTBITC also blocked telomerase in chemoresistant subpopulations. By using an orthotopic human liver cancer xenograft model, we give first evidence that MTBITC at 50 mg/KG b.w./d significantly decreased telomerase activity in vivo without affecting enzyme activity of adjacent normal tissue. Upon drug exposure, telomerase decrease was consistent with a dose‐dependent switch to anti‐survival, cell arrest and apoptosis in our in vitro HCC models. Blocking telomerase by the specific inhibitor TMPyP4 further sensitized cancer cells to MTBITC‐mediated cytotoxicity. Overexpression of hTERT, but not enzyme activity deficient DNhTERT, protected against apoptosis; neither DNA damage nor cytostasis induction by MTBITC was prevented by hTERT overexpression. These findings imply that telomerase enzyme activity does not protect against MTBITC‐induced DNA damage but impacts signalling processes upstream of apoptosis execution level.
Efficacy and safety of the dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor sitagliptin compared with alpha‐glucosidase inhibitor in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled on metformin or pioglitazone alone (Study for an Ultimate Combination Therapy to Control Diabetes with Sitagliptin‐1): A multicenter, randomized, open‐label, non‐inferiority trial
Authors: Yokoh Hidetaka , Kobayashi Kazuki , Sato Yasunori , Takemoto Minoru , Uchida Daigaku , Kanatsuka Azuma , Kuribayashi Nobuichi , Terano Takashi , Hashimoto Naotake , Sakurai Kenichi , Hanaoka Hideki , Ishikawa Ko , Onishi Shunichiro , Yokote Koutaro ,   the SUCCESS Study Group
Published: September 2014

Aims/Introduction

To assess the efficacy and safety of sitagliptin compared with α‐glucosidase inhibitors in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled by metformin or pioglitazone alone.

Materials and Methods

In the present multicenter, randomized, open‐label, parallel‐group, active‐controlled, non‐inferiority trial, 119 patients aged 20–79 years with type 2 diabetes who had glycated hemoglobin 6.9–8.8% on stable metformin (500–1,500 mg/day) or pioglitazone (15–30 mg/day) alone were randomly assigned (1:1) to receive the addition of sitagliptin (50 mg/day) or an α‐glucosidase inhibitor (0.6 mg/day voglibose or 150 mg/day miglitol) for 24 weeks. The primary end‐point was change in glycated hemoglobin from baseline to week 12. All data were analyzed according to the intention‐to‐treat principle.

Results

After 12 weeks, reductions in adjusted mean glycated hemoglobin from baseline were −0.70% in sitagliptin and −0.21% in the α‐glucosidase inhibitor groups respectively; between‐group difference was −0.49% (95% confidence interval −0.66 to −0.32, P < 0.0001), meeting the predefined non‐inferiority criterion (0.25%) and showing statistical significance. This statistical significance also continued after 24 weeks. Although sitagliptin did not affect bodyweight, α‐glucosidase inhibitors decreased bodyweight significantly from baseline (−0.39 kg; P = 0.0079). Gastrointestinal disorders were significantly lower with sitagliptin than with an α‐glucosidase inhibitor (6 [10.3%] patients vs 23 [39.7%]; P = 0.0003). Minor hypoglycemia occurred in two patients (3.5%) in each group.

Conclusions

Sitagliptin showed greater efficacy and better tolerability than an α‐glucosidase inhibitor when added to stable doses of metformin or pioglitazone. These findings support the use of sitagliptin in Japanese patients with type 2 diabetes inadequately controlled by insulin‐sensitizing agents. This trial was registered with UMIN (no. 000004675).
The Information Value of the Stress Test
Authors: MORGAN DONALD P. , PERISTIANI STAVROS , SAVINO VANESSA
Published: September 2014

We investigate whether the “stress test,” the extraordinary examination of the 19 largest U.S. bank holding companies conducted by federal bank supervisors in 2009, produced useful information for the market. Using standard event study techniques, we find that the market had largely deciphered on its own which banks would have capital gaps before the stress test results were revealed, but that the market was informed by the size of the gap; given our proxy for the expected gap, banks with larger capital gaps experienced more negative abnormal returns. Our findings are consistent with the view that the stress tests produced valuable information about banks.
Fiscal Stimulus in Times of High Debt: Reconsidering Multipliers and Twin Deficits
Authors: NICKEL CHRISTIANE , TUDYKA ANDREAS
Published: September 2014

We investigate the impact of fiscal stimuli at different levels of the government debt‐to‐GDP ratio for a sample of 17 European countries from 1970 to 2010. This is implemented in an interacted panel VAR framework in which all coefficient parameters are allowed to change continuously with the debt‐to‐GDP ratio. We find that responses to government spending shocks exhibit strong nonlinear behavior. While the overall cumulative effect of a spending shock on real GDP is positive and significant at moderate debt‐to‐GDP ratios, this effect turns negative as the ratio increases. The total cumulative effect on the trade balance as a share of GDP is negative at first but switches sign at higher levels of debt. Consequently, depending on the degree of public indebtedness, our results accommodate long‐run fiscal multipliers that are greater and smaller than one or even negative as well as twin deficit and twin divergence behavior within one sample and time period. From a policy perspective, these results lend additional support to increased prudence at high public debt ratios because the effectiveness of fiscal stimuli to boost economic activity or resolve external imbalances may not be guaranteed.
Systematic implementation of evidence‐based practice in a clinical nursing setting: a participatory action research project
Authors: Friesen‐Storms Jolanda HHM , Moser Albine , van der Loo Sandra , Beurskens Anna JHM , Bours Gerrie JJW
Published: September 2014

Aims and objectives

To describe the process of implementing evidence‐based practice in a clinical nursing setting.

Background

Evidence‐based practice has become a major issue in nursing, it is insufficiently integrated into daily practice and its implementation is complex.

Design

Participatory action research.

Methods

The main participants were nurses working in a lung unit of a rural hospital. A multi‐method process of data collection was used during the observing, reflecting, planning and acting phases. Data were continuously gathered during a 24‐month period from 2010 to 2012, and analysed using an interpretive constant comparative approach. Patients were consulted to incorporate their perspective.

Results

A best‐practice mode of working was prevalent on the ward. The main barriers to the implementation of evidence‐based practice were that nurses had little knowledge of evidence‐based practice and a rather negative attitude towards it, and that their English reading proficiency was poor. The main facilitators were that nurses wanted to deliver high‐quality care and were enthusiastic and open to innovation. Implementation strategies included a tailored interactive outreach training and the development and implementation of an evidence‐based discharge protocol. The academic model of evidence‐based practice was adapted. Nurses worked according to the evidence‐based practice discharge protocol but barely recorded their activities. Nurses favourably evaluated the participatory action research process.

Conclusions

Action research provides an opportunity to empower nurses and to tailor evidence‐based practice to the practice context. Applying and implementing evidence‐based practice is difficult for front‐line nurses with limited evidence‐based practice competencies.

Relevance to clinical practice

Adaptation of the academic model of evidence‐based practice to a more pragmatic approach seems necessary to introduce evidence‐based practice into clinical practice. The use of scientific evidence can be facilitated by using pre‐appraised evidence. For clinical practice, it seems relevant to integrate scientific evidence with clinical expertise and patient values in nurses' clinical decision‐making at the individual patient level.
Lower Buffet Prices Lead to Less Taste Satisfaction
Authors: Just David R. , Sığırcı Özge , Wansink Brian
Published: September 2014

A field experiment was conducted to assess how diners' taste evaluations change based on how much they paid for an all‐you‐can‐eat (AYCE) buffet. Diners at an AYCE restaurant were either charged $4 or $8 for an Italian lunch buffet. Their taste evaluation of each piece of pizza consumed was taken along with other measures of behavior and self‐perceptions. Their ratings were analyzed using 2 × 3 mixed design analysis of variance (ANOVA). Diners who paid $4 for their buffet rated their initial piece of pizza as less tasty, less satisfactory and less enjoyable. A downward trend was exhibited for each of these measures with each additional piece (P = 0.02). Those who paid $8 did not experience the same decrement in taste, satisfaction and enjoyment. Paying less for an AYCE experience may face the unintended consequence of food that is both less enjoyable and rapidly declining in taste and enjoyability. In a sense, AYCE customers get what they pay for.

Practical Applications

This study demonstrates that when eating in a less expensive all‐you‐can‐eat (AYCE) buffet, people find the food less tasty. Such a consequence means a less enjoyable experience for the consumers, which may have implications for repeat purchase. By employing a low‐price strategy, AYCE restaurants can attract the initial business of customers. However, these customers may end up evaluating the food unfavorably. As a result, the low‐price strategy may not be as profitable in the long term. This study has implications for both consumers and restaurants.
VERTICAL VARIATIONS IN RESERVOIR GEOCHEMISTRY IN A PALAEOZOIC TRAP, EMBLA FIELD, OFFSHORE NORWAY
Authors: Abay T.B. , Karlsen D.A. , Ohm S.E.
Published: September 2014

The Embla field, located in the Greater Ekofisk area (Norwegian North Sea), produces oil from Palaeozoic reservoir rocks comprising moderately to well sorted micaceous sandstones and silty mudstones. The reservoir is divided into “upper” and “lower” sandstones by a mudstone/siltstone succession, and is overlain by the Jurassic Tyne Group. Below are Palaeozoic mudstones and fractured rhyolites. Bitumen coatings on sand grains and in the fractured rhyolites have been recorded at Embla, and the bitumen may modify the dynamic response of the reservoir during production.

In this paper, the organic geochemistry of core extracts and DST oil from well 2–7/26S were analysed by Iatroscan TLC‐FID, GC‐FID and GC‐MS in order to investigate heterogeneities in petroleum composition, thermal maturity and biodegradation between the lower and upper sandstones and the fractured rhyolites, and to investigate the trap filling history.

The geochemical data suggest that the reservoir at Embla has received two pulses of oil. The first oil pulse represents a palaeo‐filling event which is interpreted to have charged the reservoir around the end of the Triassic. This oil was biodegraded in the reservoir which must therefore have been uplifted to depths of less than ca. 2km (equivalent to ca. 70°C). Because of later burial, the reservoir is at a depth of more than 4km at the present day. This palaeo‐oil is compositionally different to most North Sea oils, and may be derived from a source rock containing Type II kerogen. The second more recent oil pulse, comprising “Ekofisk” type oil, started to refill the Embla structure when the Kimmeridge‐equivalent Mandal Formation became thermally mature around the end of the Cretaceous. This second oil migrated along the Skrubbe Fault.

Extracts from the upper and lower sandstones are medium to highly mature and show different biomarker and aromatic maturity signatures. The bitumen from the lower sandstone is more mature as indicated by ratios of diasteranes/(diasteranes + regular steranes), 20S/(20S + 20R) steranes, and calculated vitrinite reflectances. Bitumen from rhyolite samples shows the lowest maturity. This suggests that the oil trapped in the fractured rhyolites represents the early oil pulse which did not undergo in‐reservoir cracking or biodegradation after its emplacement.
Melatonin‐mediated β‐catenin activation protects neuron cells against prion protein‐induced neurotoxicity
Authors: Jeong Jae‐Kyo , Lee Ju‐Hee , Moon Ji‐Hong , Lee You‐Jin , Park Sang‐Youel
Published: September 2014

Activation of β‐catenin in neurons regulates mitochondrial function and protects against protein misfolding disorders, including Alzheimer's disease and Huntington's disease. Melatonin, a natural secretory product of the pineal gland, exerts neuroprotective effects through the activation of β‐catenin. In this study, melatonin increased β‐catenin protein expression and activation in human neuroblastoma cell lines SH‐SY5Y cells. Melatonin also inhibited PrP (106–126)‐induced neurotoxicity and the inhibition attenuated by treatment of β‐catenin inhibitor ICG‐001. Activation of β‐catenin blocked PrP (106–126)‐mediated downregulation of anti‐apoptotic protein survivin and Bcl‐2. Reduction of mitochondrial membrane potential, translocation of Bax, and cytochrome c release which induced by PrP (106–126) treatment were inhibited by β‐catenin activation, which contributed to prevented PrP (106–126)‐induced neuronal cell death. In conclusion, β‐catenin activation by melatonin prevented PrP (106–126)‐induced neuronal cell death through regulating anti‐apoptotic proteins and mitochondrial pathways. These results also suggest the therapeutic value of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling in prion‐related disorders as influenced by melatonin.
The fate of glycerol entering the rumen of dairy cows and sheep
Authors: Werner Omazic A. , Kronqvist C. , Zhongyan L. , Martens H. , Holtenius K.
Published: September 2014

This study investigated the fate of glycerol entering the rumen, in particular whether glycerol could be absorbed across the rumen epithelium. Three non‐lactating rumen‐fistulated cows were used to calculate the overall disappearance rate of glycerolin vivoand evaluate the rate of ruminal glycerol absorption. Rumen epithelial tissues isolated from sheep were used to characterise glycerol transport properties. The rate of rumen microbial degradation of glycerol was then studied in anin vitrosystem under anaerobic and thermo‐regulated conditions. The results showed that glycerol can be absorbed from the rumen in significant amounts. The fractional rate of absorption of glycerol was not affected by variations in glycerol concentration in the buffer solution in thein vivostudy. The glycerol absorption apparently occurred largely by passive diffusion and was probably not facilitated by carriers. Glycerol also disappeared via microbial digestion and outflow from the rumen through the omasal orifice.
Ca2+ signalling in plant immune response: from pattern recognition receptors to Ca2+ decoding mechanisms
Authors: Seybold Heike , Trempel Fabian , Ranf Stefanie , Scheel Dierk , Romeis Tina , Lee Justin
Published: September 2014

Ca2+ is a ubiquitous second messenger for cellular signalling in various stresses and developmental processes. Here, we summarize current developments in the roles of Ca2+ during plant immunity responses. We discuss the early perception events preceding and necessary for triggering cellular Ca2+ fluxes, the potential Ca2+‐permeable channels, the decoding of Ca2+ signals predominantly via Ca2+‐dependent phosphorylation events and transcriptional reprogramming. To highlight the complexity of the cellular signal network, we briefly touch on the interplay between Ca2+‐dependent signalling and selected major signalling mechanisms – with special emphasis on reactive oxygen species at local and systemic levels.
In planta anthocyanin degradation by a vacuolar class III peroxidase in Brunfelsia calycina flowers
Authors: Zipor Gadi , Duarte Patrícia , Carqueijeiro Inês , Shahar Liat , Ovadia Rinat , Teper‐Bamnolker Paula , Eshel Dani , Levin Yishai , Doron‐Faigenboim Adi , Sottomayor Mariana , Oren‐Shamir Michal
Published: September 2014

In contrast to detailed knowledge regarding the biosynthesis of anthocyanins, the largest group of plant pigments, little is known about their in planta degradation. It has been suggested that anthocyanin degradation is enzymatically controlled and induced when beneficial to the plant. Here we investigated the enzymatic process in Brunfelsia calycina flowers, as they changed color from purple to white.

We characterized the enzymatic process by which B. calycina protein extracts degrade anthocyanins. A candidate peroxidase was partially purified and characterized and its intracellular localization was determined. The transcript sequence of this peroxidase was fully identified.

A basic peroxidase, BcPrx01, is responsible for the in planta degradation of anthocyanins in B. calycina flowers. BcPrx01 has the ability to degrade complex anthocyanins, it co‐localizes with these pigments in the vacuoles of petals, and both the mRNA and protein levels of BcPrx01 are greatly induced parallel to the degradation of anthocyanins. Both isoelectric focusing (IEF) gel analysis and 3D structure prediction indicated that BcPrx01 is cationic.

Identification of BcPrx01 is a significant breakthrough both in the understanding of anthocyanin catabolism in plants and in the field of peroxidases, where such a consistent relationship between expression levels, in planta subcellular localization and activity has seldom been demonstrated.
Intraspecific genetic diversity and composition modify species‐level diversity–productivity relationships
Authors: Schöb Christian , Kerle Sarah , Karley Alison J. , Morcillo Luna , Pakeman Robin J. , Newton Adrian C. , Brooker Rob W.
Published: September 2014

Biodiversity regulates ecosystem functions such as productivity, and experimental studies of species mixtures have revealed selection and complementarity effects driving these responses. However, the impacts of intraspecific genotypic diversity in these studies are unknown, despite it forming a substantial part of the biodiversity.

In a glasshouse experiment we constructed plant communities with different levels of barley (Hordeum vulgare) genotype and weed species diversity and assessed their relative biodiversity effects through additive partitioning into selection and complementarity effects.

Barley genotype diversity had weak positive effects on aboveground biomass through complementarity effects, whereas weed species diversity increased biomass predominantly through selection effects. When combined, increasing genotype diversity of barley tended to dilute the selection effect of weeds.

We interpret these different effects of barley genotype and weed species diversity as the consequence of small vs large trait variation associated with intraspecific barley diversity and interspecific weed diversity, respectively. The different effects of intra‐ vs interspecific diversity highlight the underestimated and overlooked role of genetic diversity for ecosystem functioning.
Adjustments of embryonic photosynthetic activity modulate seed fitness in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Allorent Guillaume , Osorio Sonia , Ly Vu Joseph , Falconet Denis , Jouhet Juliette , Kuntz Marcel , Fernie Alisdair R. , Lerbs‐Mache Silva , Macherel David , Courtois Florence , Finazzi Giovanni
Published: September 2014

In this work, we dissect the physiological role of the transient photosynthetic stage observed in developing seeds of Arabidopsis thaliana.

By combining biochemical and biophysical approaches, we demonstrate that despite similar features of the photosynthetic apparatus, light absorption, chloroplast morphology and electron transport are modified in green developing seeds, as a possible response to the peculiar light environment experienced by them as a result of sunlight filtration by the pericarp. In particular, enhanced exposure to far‐red light, which mainly excites photosystem I, largely enhances cyclic electron flow around this complex at the expenses of oxygen evolution.

Using pharmacological, genetic and metabolic analyses, we show that both linear and cyclic electron flows are important during seed formation for proper germination timing. Linear flow provides specific metabolites related to oxygen and water stress responses. Cyclic electron flow possibly adjusts the ATP to NADPH ratio to cope with the specific energy demand of developing seeds.

By providing a comprehensive scenario of the characteristics, function and consequences of embryonic photosynthesis on seed vigour, our data provide a rationale for the transient building up of a photosynthetic machinery in seeds.
Most soil trophic guilds increase plant growth: a meta‐analytical review
Authors: Kulmatiski Andrew , Anderson‐Smith Andrew , Beard Karen H. , Doucette‐Riise Stephen , Mazzacavallo Michael , Nolan Nicole E. , Ramirez Ricardo A. , Stevens John R.
Published: September 2014

Trophic cascades are important drivers of plant and animal abundances in aquatic and aboveground systems, but in soils trophic cascades have been thought to be of limited importance due to omnivory and other factors. Here we use a meta‐analysis of 215 studies with 1526 experiments that measured plant growth responses to additions or removals of soil organisms to test how different soil trophic levels affect plant growth. Consistent with the trophic cascade hypothesis, we found that herbivores and plant pathogens (henceforth pests) decreased plant growth and that predators of pests increased plant growth. The magnitude of this trophic cascade was similar to that reported for aboveground systems. In contrast, we did not find evidence for trophic cascades in decomposer‐ and symbiont‐based (henceforth mutualist) food chains. In these food chains, mutualists increased plant growth and predators of mutualists also increased plant growth, presumably by increasing nutrient cycling rates. Therefore, mutualists, predators of mutualists and predators of pests all increased plant growth. Further, experiments that added multiple organisms from different trophic levels also increased plant growth. As a result, across the dataset, soil organisms increased plant growth 29% and non‐pest soil organisms increased plant growth 46%. Omnivory has traditionally been thought to confound soil trophic dynamics, but here we suggest that omnivory allows for a simplified perspective of soil food webs – one in which most soil organisms increase plant growth by preying on pests or increasing nutrient cycling rates. An implication of this perspective is that processes that decrease soil organism abundance (e.g. soil tillage) are likely to decrease aboveground productivity.

Synthesis

Soil foodwebs have resisted generalizations due to their diversity and interconnectedness. Here we use results from a meta‐analysis to inform a simplified perspective of soil foodwebs: one in which most soil trophic guilds increase plant growth. Our review also includes the first widespread support for the presence of trophic cascades in soils.
Effect of heat treatment on milk and egg proteins allergenicity
Authors: Bloom Katherine A. , Huang Faith R. , Bencharitiwong Ramon , Bardina Luda , Ross Andrew , Sampson Hugh A. , Nowak‐Węgrzyn Anna
Published: September 2014

Background

Heating destroys many conformational epitopes and reduces allergenicity of some foods. IgE‐epitope binding has been shown to be different among patients who outgrew their cow's milk or hen's egg allergy and those who did not. A significant proportion of milk‐ or egg‐allergic children are tolerant to these foods in their baked forms. We sought to explore the effects of heating on milk and egg proteins and to evaluate for differences in immunolabeling among children with regard to reactivity to heated milk or egg.

Methods

Sera from participants in clinical dietary intervention trials were utilized. Milk and egg samples were variably heated and prepared (at times within a wheat matrix). Sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (PAGE), protein transfer, and Western blot were completed.

Results

Sera from 20 milk‐allergic and 24 egg‐allergic children were utilized. Gel electrophoresis showed strongly staining casein bands that persisted for up to 60 min of heating. In contrast, β‐lactoglobulin and α‐lactalbumin bands became progressiv‐ely weaker with increasing heating times, with no detectable β‐lactoglobulin after 15–20 min of heating. The ovalbumin band became progressively weaker, whereas ovomucoid remained stable after 25 min of heating. Immunolabeling revealed that all heated milk‐reactive children possessed IgE antibodies that bound the casein fraction regardless of heating time. Presence of wheat during heating resulted in decreased IgE antibody binding to milk and egg white proteins.

Conclusion

Heating has a different effect on whey and caseins in cow's milk and ovalbumin and ovomucoid in hen's egg white. The effect of heat on protein allergenicity is affected by the temperature and duration, along with the presence of wheat.
The oxygen supply to thermogenic flowers
Authors: SEYMOUR ROGER S. , ITO KIKUKATSU , UMEKAWA YUI , MATTHEWS PHILIP D. G. , PIRINTSOS STERGIOS ARG
Published: September 2014

Thermogenic flowers produce heat by intense respiration, and the rates of O2 consumption (Ṁo2) in some species can exceed those of all other tissues of plants and most animals. By exposing intact flowers to a range of O2 pressures (Po2) and measuring Ṁo2, we demonstrate that the highest respiration rates exceed the capacity of the O2 diffusive pathway and become diffusion limited in atmospheric air. The male florets on the inflorescence of Arum concinnatum have the highest known mass‐specific Ṁo2 and can be severely diffusion limited. Intact spadices of Japanese skunk cabbage Symplocarpus renifolius are diffusion limited in air only when Ṁo2 is maximal, but not at lower levels. True flowers of the sacred lotus Nelumbo nucifera and the appendix of Arum concinnatum are never diffusion limited in air. Ṁo2 – Po2 curves are evaluated quantitatively with the ‘Regulation Index’, a new tool to measure dependence of Ṁo2 on ambient Po2, as well as the conventional ‘Critical Po2’. The study also includes measurements of Po2 within thermogenic tissues with O2‐sensitive fibre optics, and reveals that the diffusion pathway is complicated and that O2 can be provided not only from the surface of the tissues but also from the pith of the flower's peduncle.
Management of a Trichophyton tonsurans Outbreak in a Day‐Care Center
Authors: Gray Robert M. , Champagne Caroline , Waghorn David , Ong Eugene , Grabczynska Sophie A. , Morris Jill
Published: September 2014

Trichophyton tonsurans is the leading cause of tinea capitis in the United Kingdom (UK) as well as causing tinea corporis. This organism has been linked to several outbreaks in the UK and abroad, and such outbreaks may be prolonged since T. tonsurans can be difficult to control. There remains an incomplete consensus in the literature on the optimal management of such outbreaks of this infection. Following notification that a child with T. tonsurans was identified at a day‐care center in the UK, initial investigations identified nine cases of fungal infection involving children and staff over the previous 7 months. We report on the management of an outbreak of T. tonsurans tinea capitis and tinea corporis among children and staff in a day‐care center. An outbreak control team with representatives from dermatology, microbiology, day‐care center management, and the Health Protection Agency initiated case ascertainment by scalp inspection and brushing of all children and staff at the nursery. Two complete rounds of screening were required before the outbreak was declared over. Infection control measures included antifungal shampoo use, exclusion of identified cases for a short period, removal of shared items from the center, and enhanced decontamination of fomites. The outbreak, which lasted longer than 12 months, involved 12 children and 7 staff members. Of these, 12 cases were confirmed by positive fungal culture. T. tonsurans is difficult to manage, especially in childcare settings, but case ascertainment, appropriate treatment with oral agents, and sustained infection control measures can be effective in controlling such outbreaks.
Ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection with Listeria innocua
Authors: Karli Arzu , Sensoy Gulnar , Unal Nevzat , Yanik Keramettin , Cigdem Halit , Belet Nursen , Sofuoglu Ayse
Published: September 2014

Listeria species may cause life‐threatening events including meningitis and invasive infection in newborns, pregnant women, older and immunodeficient people. The most common Listeria species that causes infection is L. monocytogenes. It is known that Listeria innocua has no pathogenicity. A 9‐month‐old baby had ventriculoperitoneal shunt and was treated with adrenocorticotropic hormone because of infantile spasms. He was brought to hospital with fever and vomiting. Upon physical examination, the patient seemed uncomfortable and had a temperature of 38.6°C. Laboratory results were as follows: hemoglobin, 6.7 g/dL; leukocyte count, 5420/mm3; platelet count, 169 000/mm3; and C‐reactive protein, 100 mg/L (normal <5 mg/L). On analysis of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), leukocyte count was 480/mm3, protein was 46 mg/dL and CSF glucose was 35 mg/dL. L. innocua was isolated in CSF culture. We describe this unusual case of ventriculoperitoneal shunt infection with L. innocua.
Computed tomography findings of ongoing subgaleal hemorrhage
Authors: Hangai Mayumi , Kimura Yuki , Mori Harushi , Yasui Kojiro , Tsuchida Shinya , Takahashi Naoto
Published: September 2014

Neonatal subgaleal hemorrhage (SGH) is a serious adverse event that is often underestimated and sometimes goes unrecognized. It can cause bleeding complications and jeopardize the patient's life. Early diagnosis and prompt treatment are important in optimizing the outcome in neonates with SGH. Herein we describe the case of a newborn who developed severe SGH and died. We report unenhanced computed tomography (CT) of ongoing SGH, which showed a low‐density region in the surrounding area of the head. The density could be explained by unclotted active bleeding and low hematocrit. Even if a patient with clinically suspected SGH has a low‐density region on CT, the presence of SGH should not be excluded.
Hypocalcemic cardiomyopathy as initial presentation of primary hypoparathyroidism
Authors: Velayuthan Sujithra , Gungor Neslihan , McVie Robert
Published: September 2014

Cardiomyopathy is a rare but life‐threatening condition in children. Myocarditis is the leading cause of dilated cardiomyopathy (DCM) and prognosis is generally poor without heart transplantation. We report a rare case of hypocalcemic DCM due to primary hypoparathyroidism in a male infant. In our patient, aggressive management of hypoparathyroidism significantly improved the manifestations of DCM. He is currently 10 years old and has no symptoms of exercise intolerance. Latest echocardiogram revealed near‐normal cardiac function. Our case emphasizes that early diagnosis of this treatable cause of cardiomyopathy prevents serious sequelae.
Evaluation of growth rate and semi‐refined carrageenan properties of tissue‐cultured Kappaphycus alvarezii (Rhodophyta, Gigartinales)
Authors: Yong Wilson Thau Lym , Chin Jamie Yan Yung , Thien Vun Yee , Yasir Suhaimi
Published: September 2014

This study aimed to evaluate and compare the quality of κ‐carrageenan obtained from tissue‐cultured and field‐cultured Kappaphycus alvarezii. Carrageenan properties including yield, viscosity, gel strength and sulfate content were studied. After 60 days of cultivation, tissue‐cultured K. alvarezii showed a higher growth rate (6.3 ± 0.01% day−1) than field‐cultured seedlings (3.4 ± 0.3% day−1). The obtained carrageenan yield from tissue‐cultured (67.3 ± 16.4%) was higher than field‐cultured K. alvarezii (51.5 ± 21.0%). Gel viscosity of carrageenans from tissue‐cultured K. alvarezii (1280.0 ± 25.0 cP) was found significantly higher than field‐cultured samples (87.8 ± 20.9 cP). The 1.5% gel solution of tissue‐cultured and field‐cultured K. alvarezii exhibited gel strengths of 703.5 ± 14.1 and 288.3 ± 19.3 g cm−2, respectively. The average sulfate content of carrageenans was found to be significantly different between tissue‐cultured and field‐cultured K. alvarezii with 34.2 ± 10.9 and 7.5 ± 6.7%, respectively. Tissue culture is recommended to produce high quality seedlings by providing optimized culture conditions to the seaweed. This approach can serve as an alternative way to solve the seedling shortage problems currently faced by the seaweed industry.
Autonomic responses to lateralized cold pressor and facial cooling tasks
Authors: McGinley Jared J. , Friedman Bruce H.
Published: September 2014

Asymmetry in central nervous system (CNS) control of autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity, a widely debated topic, was investigated via lateralized presentation of two ANS challenges: cold pressor, which elicits primarily sympathetic activation, and facial cooling, a predominantly vagal task. Seventy‐three university students (37 female) engaged in these tasks while cardiovascular and electrodermal measures were acquired. Compared to right‐side cold pressor, left cold pressor elicited generally larger cardiac, blood pressure, and skin conductance responses, but did not evoke asymmetric changes in heart rate variability. Facial cooling elicited significant increases in vagally mediated heart rate variability, but they were also not lateralized. These findings are consistent with reports of right hemisphere dominance in sympathetic regulation, but indicate that CNS vagal control is relatively symmetric. These results are framed in terms of polyvagal theory and neurovisceral integration two influential models of CNS‐ANS integration in the service of adaptive environmental engagement.
Accounting for Time: Comparing Temporal and Atemporal Analyses of the Business Case for Diversity Management
Authors: Oberfield Zachary W.
Published: September 2014

Public management strategies have an inherent temporal component: managers take action at one time, and employees or organizations respond at a later time. However, it is common to study such strategies using atemporal research. Concerns about the inadequacy of this approach have led scholars to advocate for public management research that incorporates time. Because following this advice is difficult, it is important to evaluate how the omission of time affects the understanding of public management strategies. This article compares temporal and atemporal analyses of the business case for diversity management—the expectation that organizations that manage diversity well will also improve their performance. Using survey and personnel data drawn from U.S. federal government subagencies, the article shows that both analyses support this general expectation. However, the cross‐sectional analysis, by failing to account for organizational inertia, portrays diversity management as more potent than the analyses taking time into account.
Changes in Bull Sperm Kinematics after Single Layer Centrifugation
Authors: Yulnawati Y , Abraham MC , Laskowski D , Johannisson A , Morrell JM
Published: September 2014

Contents

The objective of this study was to evaluate bull sperm kinematics after centrifugation through a single layer of a colloid [Single Layer Centrifugation (SLC)]. Ejaculates from 20 bulls were extended and stored at 4–6°C for 24 h during transport to the laboratory forSLCthrough Androcoll‐B, followed by measurement of sperm kinematics in all samples. Total motility (86% and 88% for uncentrifuged andSLCsamples, respectively) and progressive motility (84% for both the groups) were similar (p > 0.05). In contrast, straightness (STR) (0.65 vs 0.69), linearity (LIN) (0.32 vs 0.35) and beat cross frequency (BCF) (22.3 vs 23.6 Hz) were significantly higher in theSLC‐selected samples than in the uncentrifuged samples, whereas velocity of the average path (VAP) (95 vs 90 μm/s), curvilinear velocity (VCL) (192 vs 180 μm/s), amplitude of lateral head deviation (ALH) (7 μm vs 6.5 μm) and hypermotility (49% vs 38%) were significantly decreased. The kinematics of the samples with the poorest motility was improved most bySLC. In conclusion, even thoughSLChad no direct effect on total and progressive motility, it appeared to have a positive influence on several other kinematic parameters that may be important for fertilization after artificial insemination.
Reduced repetition suppression in the occipital visual cortex during repeated negative Chinese personality‐trait word processing
Authors: Qiao Fuqiang , Zheng Li , Li Lin , Zhu Lei , Wang Qianfeng
Published: September 2014

Reduced neural activation have been consistently observed during repeated items processing, a phenomenon termed repetition suppression. The present study used functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to investigate whether and how stimuli of emotional valence affects repetition suppression by adopting Chinese personality‐trait words as materials. Seventeen participants were required to read the negative and neutral Chinese personality‐trait words silently. And then they were presented with repeated and novel items during scanning. Results showed significant repetition suppression in the inferior occipital gyrus only for neutral personality‐trait words, whereas similar repetition suppression in the left inferior temporal gyrus and left middle temporal gyrus was revealed for both the word types. These results indicated common and distinct neural substrates during processing Chinese repeated negative and neutral personality‐trait words.