bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mucosal vaccines: a paradigm shift in the development of mucosal adjuvants and delivery vehicles
Authors: Srivastava Atul , Gowda Devegowda Vishakante , Madhunapantula SubbaRao V. , Shinde Chetan G. , Iyer Meenakshi
Published: January 2015

Mucosal immune responses are the first‐line defensive mechanisms against a variety of infections. Therefore, immunizations of mucosal surfaces from which majority of infectious agents make their entry, helps to protect the body against infections. Hence, vaccinization of mucosal surfaces by using mucosal vaccines provides the basis for generating protective immunity both in the mucosal and systemic immune compartments. Mucosal vaccines offer several advantages over parenteral immunization. For example, (i) ease of administration; (ii) non‐invasiveness; (iii) high‐patient compliance; and (iv) suitability for mass vaccination. Despite these benefits, to date, only very few mucosal vaccines have been developed using whole microorganisms and approved for use in humans. This is due to various challenges associated with the development of an effective mucosal vaccine that can work against a variety of infections, and various problems concerned with the safe delivery of developed vaccine. For instance, protein antigen alone is not just sufficient enough for the optimal delivery of antigen(s) mucosally. Hence, efforts have been made to develop better prophylactic and therapeutic vaccines for improved mucosal Th1 and Th2 immune responses using an efficient and safe immunostimulatory molecule and novel delivery carriers. Therefore, in this review, we have made an attempt to cover the recent advancements in the development of adjuvants and delivery carriers for safe and effective mucosal vaccine production.
Combined treatment with bexarotene and rosuvastatin reduces angiotensin‐II‐induced abdominal aortic aneurysm in apoE−/− mice and angiogenesis
Authors: Escudero P , Navarro A , Ferrando C , Furio E , Gonzalez‐Navarro H , Juez M , Sanz M J , Piqueras L
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) is a degenerative vascular disease associated with angiogenesis. Bexarotene is a retinoid X receptor (RXR) ligand with anti‐angiogenic activity. Statins also exert anti‐angiogenic activity and activate PPARs. Because RXR ligands form permissive heterodimers with PPARs and a single anti‐angiogenic drug may not be sufficient to combat the wide array of angiogenic factors produced during AAA, we evaluated the effect of combined low doses of bexarotene and rosuvastatin in a mouse model of AAA.

Experimental Approach

The effect of the combined treatment was investigated in a murine model of angiotensin II‐induced AAA in apoE−/− mice. This combination therapy was also evaluated in in vivo (Matrigel plug assay) and in vitro (endothelial cell differentiation assay) models of angiogenesis as well as the underlying mechanisms involved.

Key Results

Co‐treatment with bexarotene plus rosuvastatin reduced aneurysm formation, inflammation and neovascularization compared with each single treatment. In HUVEC, the combination of suboptimal concentrations of bexarotene and rosuvastatin inhibited angiotensin II‐induced morphogenesis, proliferation and migration. These effects were accompanied by diminished production of pro‐angiogenic chemokines (CXCL1, CCL2 or CCL5) and VEGF, and seemed to be mediated by RXRα/PPARα and RXRα/PPARγ activation. This combined therapy reduced the activation of members of the downstream PI3K pathway (Akt/mTOR and p70S6K1) in vivo and in vitro.

Conclusions and Implications

The combination of RXR agonists with statins at low doses synergistically interferes with the signalling pathways that modulate inflammation and angiogenesis and may constitute a new and safer therapeutic treatment for the control of AAA.
Characterization of zofenoprilat as an inducer of functional angiogenesis through increased H2S availability
Authors: Terzuoli E , Monti M , Vellecco V , Bucci M , Cirino G , Ziche M , Morbidelli L
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose

Hydrogen sulfide (H2S), an endogenous volatile mediator with pleiotropic functions, promotes vasorelaxation, exerts anti‐inflammatory actions and regulates angiogenesis. Previously, the SH‐containing angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), zofenopril, was identified as being effective in preserving endothelial function and inducing angiogenesis among ACEIs. Based on the H2S donor property of its active metabolite zofenoprilat, the objective of this study was to evaluate whether zofenoprilat‐induced angiogenesis was due to increased H2S availability.

Experimental Approach

HUVECs were used for in vitro studies of angiogenesis, whereas the Matrigel plug assay was used for in vivo assessments.

Key Results

Zofenoprilat‐treated HUVECs showed an increase in all functional features of the angiogenic process in vitro. As zofenoprilat induced the expression of CSE (cystathionine‐γ‐lyase) and the continuous production of H2S, CSE inhibition or silencing blocked the ability of zofenoprilat to induce angiogenesis, both in vitro and in vivo. The molecular mechanisms underlying H2S/zofenoprilat‐induced angiogenesis were dependent on Akt, eNOS and ERK1/2 cascades. ATP‐sensitive potassium (KATP) channels, the molecular target that mediates part of the vascular functions of H2S, were shown to be involved in the upstream activation of Akt and ERK1/2. Moreover, the up‐regulation of fibroblast growth factor‐2 was dependent on CSE‐derived H2S response to H2S and KATP activation.

Conclusions and Implications

Zofenoprilat induced a constant production of H2S that stimulated the angiogenic process through a KATP channel/Akt/eNOS/ERK1/2 pathway. Thus, zofenopril can be considered as a pro‐angiogenic drug acting through H2S release and production, useful in cardiovascular pathologies where vascular functions need to be re‐established and functional angiogenesis induced.
Pharmacological methyl group donors block skeletal metastasis in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Shukeir Nicholas , Stefanska Barbara , Parashar Surabhi , Chik Flora , Arakelian Ani , Szyf Moshe , Rabbani Shafaat A
Published: January 2015

Background and Purpose

DNA hypomethylation was previously implicated in metastasis. In the present study, we examined whether methyl supplementation with the universal methyl donor S‐adenosylmethionine (SAM) inhibits prostate cancer associated skeletal metastasis.

Experimental Approach

Highly invasive human prostate cancer cells PC‐3 and DU‐145 were treated with vehicle alone, S‐adenosylhomocysteine (SAH) or SAM and their effects on tumour cell proliferation, invasion, migration and colony formation were monitored. For in vivo studies, control (SAH) and SAM‐treated PC‐3 cells were injected into the tibia of Fox chase SCID mice and skeletal lesions were determined by X‐ray and μCT. To understand possible mechanisms involved, we delineated the effect of SAM on the genome‐wide methylation profile of PC‐3 cells.

Key Results

Treatment with SAM resulted in a dose‐dependent inhibition of tumour cell proliferation, invasion, cell migration, colony formation and cell cycle characteristics. Animals injected with 250 μM SAM‐treated cells developed significantly smaller skeletal lesions, which were associated with increases in bone volume to tumour volume ratio and connectivity density as well as decreased trabecular spacing. Genome‐wide methylation analysis showed differential methylation in several key signalling pathways implicated in prostate cancer including the signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) pathway. A selective STAT3 inhibitor decreased tumour cell invasion, effects which were less pronounced as compared with SAM.

Conclusions and Implications

These studies provide a possible mechanism for the role of DNA demethylation in the development of skeletal metastasis and a rationale for the use of hypermethylation pharmacological agents to impede the development and progression of skeletal metastasis.

Linked Articles

This article is part of a themed section on Epigenetics and Therapy. To view the other articles in this section visit http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/bph.2015.172.issue‐11
microRNAs in breast cancer: regulatory roles governing the hallmarks of cancer
Authors: Goh Jen N. , Loo Ser Y. , Datta Arpita , Siveen Kodappully S. , Yap Wei N. , Cai Wanpei , Shin Eun M. , Wang Chao , Kim Ji E. , Chan Maurice , Dharmarajan Arun M. , Lee Ann S.‐G. , Lobie Peter E. , Yap Celestial T. , Kumar Alan P.
Published: January 2015

A large number of etiological factors and the complexity of breast cancers present challenges for prevention and treatment. Recently, the emergence of microRNAs (miRNAs) as cancer biomarkers has added an extra dimension to the ‘molecular signatures’ of breast cancer. Bioinformatic analyses indicate that each miRNA can regulate hundreds of target genes and could serve functionally as ‘oncogenes’ or ‘tumour suppressor’ genes, and co‐ordinate multiple cellular processes relevant to cancer progression. A number of studies have shown that miRNAs play important roles in breast tumorigenesis, metastasis, proliferation and differentiation of breast cancer cells. This review provides a comprehensive overview of miRNAs with established functional relevance in breast cancer, their established target genes and resulting cellular phenotype. The role and application of circulating miRNAs in breast cancer is also discussed. Furthermore, we summarize the role of miRNAs in the hallmarks of breast cancer, as well as the possibility of using miRNAs as potential biomarkers for detection of breast cancer.
Why and Under What Contextual Conditions Do Early‐Maturing Girls Develop Problem Behaviors?
Authors: Skoog Therése , Stattin Håkan
Published: January 2015

Researchers have proposed several theoretical models to account for the well‐established link between pubertal timing and social adjustment. The early models are general and pay little attention to mechanisms or contextual conditions, while newer models concentrate on interpersonal and contextual conditions. A recent theoretical approach—combining peer‐socialization and contextual‐amplification models—seeks to specify the theoretical mechanisms involved in the peer‐socialization explanation of the link between girls' early maturation and problem behavior, on one hand, and the contextual conditions during which peer socialization are likely to occur, on the other. Findings from our empirical studies on micro‐ and macrocontextual levels support this integrative approach. Models of how puberty affects behavior should recognize the social embeddedness of adolescents' behaviors, and should therefore be contextual.
Sources and Measurement of Agricultural Productivity and Efficiency in Canadian Provinces: Crops and Livestock
Authors: Darku Alexander Bilson , Malla Stavroula , Tran Kien C.
Published: January 2015

This paper measures and assesses the variation in total factor productivity (TFP) growth among Canadian provinces in crops and livestock production over the period 1940–2009. It also determines if agricultural productivity growth in Canada has recently slowed down as indicated by earlier studies. The paper uses the stochastic frontier approach that incorporates inefficiency to decompose TFP growth into technical change (TC), scale effect (SE), and technical efficiency change. The results indicate that productivity changes were mainly driven by TCs for crops, while the productivity changes in livestock was mainly driven by SEs and technical progress. Though change in technical efficiency is mainly positive (except for New Brunswick and Nova Scotia), its contribution to productivity growth was very little for the provinces. We also found that over the entire period, the productivity growth rates for the crop subsector are on average higher for the Prairie provinces than for the Eastern and Atlantic provinces. On the other hand, the productivity growth rates in the livestock subsector are on average higher in the Eastern and Atlantic provinces than in the Prairie region with the exception of Manitoba. Finally, we found that though there is some evidence of a recent decline in productivity growth for the crops subsector, there is no such evidence in the livestock subsector.
Healing of Bio‐Oss® grafted marginal gaps at implants placed into fresh extraction sockets of incisor teeth in dogs: a study on the effect of submerged vs. non‐submerged healing
Authors: Mellati Ehsan , Chen Stephen , Davies Helen , Fitzgerald Wayne , Darby Ivan
Published: January 2015

Objectives

To evaluate the effect of submerged vs. non‐submerged (NS) protocols in healing outcomes of grafted marginal defects of immediate implants.

Materials and methods

The second maxillary incisors were extracted bilaterally in six greyhound dogs. Bone level reduced diameter implants were installed into the extraction sockets leaving orofacial gaps of 2 mm wide. Defects were filled with Bio‐Oss® and covered with Bio‐Gide®. On the one side, the flap was advanced to fully submerge the implant, and on the other, the flap was sutured to allow NS healing. After 3 months of healing, the dogs were sacrificed and block biopsies were obtained to perform histological and morphometric analysis.

Results

All implants were clinically healthy and well integrated into bone. In the majority of the specimens, the original bone in the coronal 2–3 mm of the buccal crest had completely resorbed and was replaced by a regenerated bone wall consisting of Bio‐Oss® particles surrounded by newly formed bone. Horizontal and vertical resorption of the buccal bone resulted in ≥1 mm exposure of the implant surface in one‐third of implants. Minor differences existed in some aspects of hard tissue healing between submerged and NS.

Conclusion

There was very little difference in healing outcomes as well as modelling of the facial bone wall between the submerged and NS protocols in relation to immediate implant placement in this dog model.
Transplantation of Bone Marrow Mononuclear Cells Modulates Hippocampal Expression of Growth Factors in Chronically Epileptic Animals
Authors: Zanirati Gabriele , Azevedo Pamella Nunes , Marinowic Daniel Rodrigo , Rodrigues Felipe , de Oliveira Dias Ana Christina , Venturin Gianina Teribele , Greggio Samuel , Simão Fabrício , DaCosta Jaderson Costa
Published: January 2015

Aims

In previous studies, transplantation of bone marrow mononuclear cells (BMMCs) in epileptic animals has been found to be neuroprotective. However, the mechanism by which the BMMCs act remains unclear. We hypothesize that BMMCs may provide neuroprotection to the epileptic brain through trophic support. To test our hypothesis, we studied the temporal expression of neurotrophins after BMMC transplantation in the epileptic rat hippocampus.

Methods

Chronically epileptic rats were intravenously transplanted with 1 × 107 BMMCs isolated from GFP transgenic mice. Expression levels of BDNF, GDNF, NGF, VEGF, and TGF‐β1, and their receptors, were evaluated by ELISA and/or qRT‐PCR analysis.

Results

Our data revealed increased protein expression of BDNF, GDNF, NGF, and VEGF and reduced levels of TGF‐β1 in the hippocampus of transplanted epileptic animals. Additionally, an increase in the mRNA expression of BDNF, GDNF, and VEGF, a reduction in TGF‐β1, and a decrease in mRNA levels of the TrkA and TGFR‐β1 receptors were also observed.

Conclusion

The gain provided by transplanted BMMCs in the epileptic brain may be related to the ability of these cells in modulating the network of neurotrophins and angiogenic signals.
Chromium released from leather – II: the importance of environmental parameters
Authors: Mathiason Frederik , Lidén Carola , Hedberg Yolanda S.
Published: January 2015

Background

Approximately 1–3% of the adult population in Europe are allergic to chromium (Cr). A new restriction in Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) based on the ISO 17075 standard has recently been adopted in the EU to limit Cr(VI) in consumer and occupational leather products to < 3 mg/kg.

Objectives

To investigate the influence of storage conditions [relative humidity, temperature, ultraviolet (UV) irradiation, and duration] on Cr release, and to assess several parameters relevant for occupational exposure (repeated exposure, wear, alkaline solutions, and sequential wet and dry exposures).

Material and methods

A leather of relevance for work gloves was investigated for its release of Cr(III) and Cr(VI) under these different experimental conditions.

Results

Relative humidity (water content in leather) during storage prior to Cr extraction was the single most important parameter. Cr(VI) levels could vary from non‐detectable to levels significantly exceeding the restriction limit, depending on the relative humidity. Leather contact with alkaline solution and UV irradiation during storage could increase the Cr(VI) levels in subsequent extractions.

Conclusions

The amount of Cr(VI) in leather is not an intrinsic property, but is influenced by environmental conditions of relevance for occupations and skin exposure.
Processing of Numerical and Proportional Quantifiers
Authors: Shikhare Sailee , Heim Stefan , Klein Elise , Huber Stefan , Willmes Klaus
Published: January 2015

Quantifier expressions like “many” and “at least” are part of a rich repository of words in language representing magnitude information. The role of numerical processing in comprehending quantifiers was studied in a semantic truth value judgment task, asking adults to quickly verify sentences about visual displays using numerical (at least seven, at least thirteen, at most seven, at most thirteen) or proportional (many, few) quantifiers. The visual displays were composed of systematically varied proportions of yellow and blue circles. The results demonstrated that numerical estimation and numerical reference information are fundamental in encoding the meaning of quantifiers in terms of response times and acceptability judgments. However, a difference emerges in the comparison strategies when a fixed external reference numerosity (seven or thirteen) is used for numerical quantifiers, whereas an internal numerical criterion is invoked for proportional quantifiers. Moreover, for both quantifier types, quantifier semantics and its polarity (positive vs. negative) biased the response direction (accept/reject). Overall, our results indicate that quantifier comprehension involves core numerical and lexical semantic properties, demonstrating integrated processing of language and numbers.
Inducing pluripotency in vitro: recent advances and highlights in induced pluripotent stem cells generation and pluripotency reprogramming
Authors: Rony I. K. , Baten A. , Bloomfield J. A , Islam M. E. , Billah M. M. , Islam K. D.
Published: January 2015

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) are considered patient‐specific counterparts of embryonic stem cells as they originate from somatic cells after forced expression of pluripotency reprogramming factors Oct4, Sox2, Klf4 and c‐Myc. iPSCs offer unprecedented opportunity for personalized cell therapies in regenerative medicine. In recent years, iPSC technology has undergone substantial improvement to overcome slow and inefficient reprogramming protocols, and to ensure clinical‐grade iPSCs and their functional derivatives. Recent developments in iPSC technology include better reprogramming methods employing novel delivery systems such as non‐integrating viral and non‐viral vectors, and characterization of alternative reprogramming factors. Concurrently, small chemical molecules (inhibitors of specific signalling or epigenetic regulators) have become crucial to iPSC reprogramming; they have the ability to replace putative reprogramming factors and boost reprogramming processes. Moreover, common dietary supplements, such as vitamin C and antioxidants, when introduced into reprogramming media, have been found to improve genomic and epigenomic profiles of iPSCs. In this article, we review the most recent advances in the iPSC field and potent application of iPSCs, in terms of cell therapy and tissue engineering.
Clinical management of pruritus
Authors: Ständer Sonja , Zeidler Claudia , Magnolo Nina , Raap Ulrike , Mettang Thomas , Kremer Andreas E. , Weisshaar Elke , Augustin Matthias
Published: January 2015

The care of patients with chronic pruritus as a symptom of a wide variety of underlying diseases continues to confront dermatologists with diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. However, a structured history and a physical examination may already substantially help in narrowing down the number of potential differential diagnoses. Apart form reducing the intensity of pruritus, identification and appropriate treatment of the underlying disease are important needs of patients. If these goals doesn't lead to improvement of itch, current guidelines provide a number of topical and systemic therapies for symptomatic treatment. Various skin lesions (for example, xerosis caused by irritant substances, secondary scratch lesions) prompt patients to consult a dermatologist, but most cases require an interdisciplinary therapeutic approach to identify potential internal medicine, neurologic, or psychosomatic aspects. Although great strides have been made in basic research, specific therapies are still rare, and a precise knowledge of the legal framework for the implementation of guidelines (for example, off‐label use) is essential.

This CME article gives an overview of the causes of and treatment options for chronic pruritus and discusses both advances in basic research as well as progress in clinical knowledge.
Angiogenesis in malignant melanoma
Authors: Felcht Moritz , Thomas Markus
Published: January 2015

Despite the development of novel therapies, the therapy of malignant melanoma remains challenging. Various studies have shown the vascular system to be pivotal for metastasis in melanoma. Consequently, the effect of various antiangiogenic therapies has been and is being investigated in preclinical and clinical trials. While most studies focus on inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling, others are aimed at determining the effect of multikinase inhibitors or the inhibition of angiogenic integrin activity. However, overall survival rates have not significantly improved in clinical trials with antiangiogenic agents. Resistance to anti‐VEGF monotherapy has been observed in several studies, especially in malignant melanoma. Angiopoietin‐2 (Ang‐2) represents a promising candidate molecule for antiangiogenic therapy and the effect of Ang‐2 inhibitors is currently being explored in first trials. In melanoma, Ang‐2 has been shown to be a marker for metastasis formation and represents an interesting therapeutic target molecule. Future studies are required to analyze the effect of a combined approach, using anti‐VEGF and anti‐Ang‐2, as therapy for malignant melanoma.
Melanoma stem cells
Authors: Roesch Alexander
Published: January 2015

The cancer stem cell concept significantly broadens our understanding of melanoma biology. However, this concept should be regarded as an integral part of a holistic cancer model that also includes the genetic evolution of tumor cells and the variability of cell phenotypes within a dynamic tumor microenvironment. The biologic complexity and methodological difficulties in identifying cancer stem cells and their biomarkers are currently impeding the direct translation of experimental findings into clinical practice. Nevertheless, it is these methodological shortcomings that provide a new perspective on the phenotypic heterogeneity and plasticity of melanoma with important consequences for future therapies. The development of new combination treatment strategies, particularly with regard to overcoming treatment resistance, could significantly benefit from targeted elimination of cell subpopulations with cancer stem cell properties.
Current status of tissue harmonic imaging in endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) and EUS‐elastography in pancreatobiliary diseases
Authors: Ohno Eizaburo , Kawashima Hiroki , Hashimoto Senju , Goto Hidemi , Hirooka Yoshiki
Published: January 2015

Endoscopic ultrasonography (EUS) has high spatial and contrast resolution, and is thought to be one of the most reliable and efficient diagnostic modalities for pancreatobiliary diseases. Recent progress in EUS, especially in the development of the electronic scanning method, has enabled the application of several utilities and software of a high‐end transabdominal ultrasound apparatus as an image‐enhanced EUS. Tissue harmonic imaging (THI) is a novel US acquisition method that provides better US images by using second harmonic signals. The potential advantages of THI are improved lateral resolution, reduced side lobe artifact and an increased signal‐to‐noise ratio. EUS‐elastography is another novel technique that provides information about the distributed pattern of tissue hardness. Clinical benefits of EUS‐elastography for the differential diagnosis of pancreatic tumors and the evaluation of pancreatic fibrosis have been reported. It is necessary to develop a unified and objective method of imaging and analysis to increase the use of EUS‐elastography in the future.
Factors affecting pancreatic hyperamylasemia in patients undergoing peroral single‐balloon enteroscopy
Authors: Tsujikawa Tomoyuki , Bamba Shigeki , Inatomi Osamu , Hasegawa Hiroshi , Ban Hiromitsu , Nishida Atsushi , Imaeda Hirotsugu , Itoh Akihiko , Saotome Takao , Sasaki Masaya , Andoh Akira
Published: January 2015

Background and Aim

Acute pancreatitis following balloon‐assisted enteroscopy is a rare but serious complication. The causative mechanism is uncertain and prevention strategies are not established. We conducted a retrospective study to clarify the risk factors for pancreatic hyperamylasemia.

Methods

Eighty‐four patients undergoing peroral single‐balloon enteroscopy (SBE) were enrolled in this study. Serum pancreatic and salivary amylase levels were measured 2 h after endoscopic examination.

Results

We experienced three patients with post‐SBE pancreatitis. Factors predicting pancreatic hyperamylasemia were: (i) elderly patients; (ii) deeper insertion; and (iii) clockwise insertion. In contrast, younger age at examination was a significant factor observed in salivary hyperamylasemia.

Conclusions

It is important to measure pancreatic amylase and not total amylase after SBE. When carrying out peroral SBE, the distance of insertion should be reduced especially if the scope traces a clockwise loop or the subject is elderly.
From dispersal constraints to landscape connectivity: lessons from species distribution modeling
Authors: Vasudev Divya , Fletcher Robert J. , Goswami Varun R. , Krishnadas Meghna
Published: January 2015

Connectivity plays a crucial role in determining the spread, viability, and persistence of populations across space. Dispersal across landscapes, or the movement of individuals or genes among resource patches, is critical for functional connectivity. Yet current connectivity modelling typically uses information on species location or habitat preference rather than movement, which unfortunately may not capture key dispersal limitations. We argue that recent developments in species distribution modelling provide insightful lessons for addressing this gap and advancing our understanding of connectivity. We suggest shifting the focus of connectivity modelling from locating where animals potentially disperse to a process‐based approach directed towards understanding and mapping factors that limit successful dispersal. To do so, we propose defining species dispersal requirements through identifying spatial, environmental and intrinsic constraints to successful dispersal, analogous to identifying environmental dimensions that define niches. We discuss the benefits of this constraint‐based framework for understanding the distribution of species, predicting species responses to climate change, and connectivity conservation practice. We illustrate how the framework can aid in identifying potential detrimental effects of human activities on connectivity and species persistence, and can spur the implementation of innovative conservation strategies. The proposed framework clarifies the validity and contextual utility of objectives and measures in existing connectivity models, and identifies gaps that may impede our understanding of connectivity and its integration into successful conservation strategies. We expect that this framework will facilitate a mechanistic approach to understanding and conserving connectivity, which will aid in effectively predicting and mitigating effects of ongoing environmental change.
Interactions between Beauveria bassiana and Trichogramma pretiosum under laboratory conditions
Authors: Potrich Michele , Alves Luis F.A. , Lozano Everton , Roman Jéssica C. , Pietrowski Vanda , Neves Pedro M.O.J.
Published: January 2015

Knowledge about interactions among biological control agents, used in sequence or simultaneously, may help to increase their efficiency, or in the case of conservation biological control, to avoid the impairment of efficiency. The aim of this study was to evaluate the interaction between two isolates of Beauveria bassiana (Bals.) Vuill. (Hypocreales) (Unioeste 47 and Unioeste 57) and Trichogramma pretiosum Riley (Hymenoptera: Trichogrammatidae), varying the timing of sprays of the fungus. Isolates were sprayed at 109 conidia ml−1 upon cards (1 × 5 cm; i.e., 2 × 105 conidia mm−2) with eggs of Anagasta kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) and the control group was sprayed with sterile distilled water with Tween® 80 (0.01%). First, the percentage of parasitized eggs was assessed in a choice test: females of T. pretiosum were confined with two cards, one of them treated with either of the fungus isolates, the other a water‐treated control. Second, parasitism was compared on cards sprayed at various time intervals pre‐ vs. post‐parasitism: the number of parasitized eggs was assessed, as well as the parasitoid's emergence percentage, egg‐adult period, offspring sex ratio, and the longevity of parasitizing females. Trichogramma pretiosum preferred to parasitize control eggs (65 and 72%) and parasitization of the treated eggs did not differ between fungus isolates: 35% (Unioeste 47) vs. 28% (Unioeste 57). Spraying before or after parasitizing did not affect the number of parasitized eggs, nor offspring sex ratio; however, both treatments affected the percentage of emerged adults, egg‐adult period, and longevity. These findings suggested that isolates did not interfere in the longevity of parasitizing females. When the fungus was sprayed on the various development stages of the parasitoid within the host egg, or when it was offered to the parasitoid at different times after spraying, differences in adults' longevity, parasitism, emergency period from egg to adult, and sex ratio were observed. Beauveria bassiana may be used in conjunction with this parasitoid in a program of pest control.
The costs of colour: plasticity of melanin pigmentation in an outbreaking polymorphic forest moth
Authors: Ethier J. , Gasse M. , Lake K. , Jones B.C. , Evenden M.L. , Despland E.
Published: January 2015

Outside the context of industrial melanism, little is known about the physiological and ecological importance of genetic melanic polymorphisms in moths. Melanin pigments are synthesized from amino acid precursors and should therefore be costly to produce in nitrogen‐limited insects. A genetic melanic polymorphism is present in adultMalacosoma disstriaHübner (Lepidoptera:Lasiocampidae), a widespread forest moth with outbreaking population dynamics. We test the hypotheses that melanin‐based colouration is physiologically costly inM. disstria, that expression of melanin‐based colouration is a plastic trait which varies with population density and nutrition, and that the genetically based melanic phenotype is disadvantaged under nutritionally poor conditions. Two experiments were used to test these hypotheses. A field study compared pigmentation and phenotypic frequencies in moths collected from high‐ and low‐density populations. A laboratory experiment investigated the effects of larval nitrogen availability on adult pigmentation and phenotypic frequencies. High population density and nitrogen limitation reduced pigmentation and size of all moths, but phenotypic frequencies were not affected in either experiment. The effects of diet on both pigmentation and size were stronger for melanic moths than for typical moths. Our results show that adult melanism inM. disstriais physiologically costly, that colour expression is plastic despite its genetic component, and that the melanic phenotype may be disadvantaged under poor conditions but favoured under good conditions. We suggest that temporal variation in selection and trait plasticity help maintain polymorphism stability.
Effect of harvester ants of the genus Pogonomyrmex on the soil seed bank around their nests in the central Monte desert, Argentina
Authors: PIRK GABRIELA I. , LOPEZ DE CASENAVE JAVIER
Published: January 2015

1. The abundance and composition of soil seed banks is a key determinant of plant community structure. Harvester ants can remove huge quantities of preferred seeds close to the nest affecting composition and spatial distribution of plants.

2. In the central Monte desert (Argentina) ants of the genus Pogonomyrmex have high seed removal rates, especially of the five main grasses. The aim of this study was to establish if their foraging activity affects spatial patterns of the soil seed bank around their nests. Our hypotheses were: (1) removal by ants decreases seed abundance of preferred species in the soil; and (2) the effect varies in time.

3. Soil seed abundance was assessed at different distances from Pogonomyrmex nests in the litter and in bare soil at the beginning, the middle, and the end of the season (late spring‐early autumn).

4. A lower seed abundance of preferred species was observed close to the nest in the litter at the end of the season. Non‐preferred species showed no distance gradient.

5. The lower foraging activity and seed consumption at the beginning of the season could explain the temporal variation of the spatial effect. This was only observed in the litter, probably because of the higher removal frequency in this substrate.

6. Colonies of Pogonomyrmex spp. could enhance the heterogeneity of soil seed banks in the central Monte desert from the summer to the beginning of the autumn. Implications for vegetation dynamics depend on the degree to which seed density limits perennial grasses recruitment after ant activity season.
Sex‐dependent responses of perch to changes in water clarity and temperature
Authors: Estlander Satu , Nurminen Leena , Mrkvička Tomáš , Olin Mikko , Rask Martti , Lehtonen Hannu
Published: January 2015

Rising temperatures and decreasing water transparency of lakes have strong wide ranging effects on fish. Fish responses to various changes in the environment are usually species‐dependent, but responses may also vary within species. In general, large individuals are considered to be more sensitive to environmental variation due to higher energy demand, than smaller individuals. Similarly, large individuals require more food to maintain bodily functions and are thus more sensitive to resource and food scarcity. These size‐specific responses to environmental gradients are also sex‐dependent in species that exhibit sexual size dimorphism (SSD). We studied in enclosures with short‐term experiments how rising temperatures and decreasing water transparency regulate the feeding rates of female and male European perch (Perca fluviatilis L.). To explore experimental results, we calculated perch SSD in nine lakes with varying environmental conditions using previously collected field data. The results of the experiments revealed that the combined effect of water transparency and temperature on the feeding rate of fish is gender‐dependent: feeding rate of females decreased more than that of males. The experimental results were also supported by field data that revealed a negative relation between water transparency and the magnitude of SSD in perch. Our results suggest that rising temperatures and decreasing water transparency may potentially decrease fish size in a sex‐dependent manner. As female size is one of the main demographic traits determining the reproductive success of a fish population, changing environments may have unexpected and far‐reaching consequences on fish population dynamics.
In vivo two‐photon imaging of structural dynamics in the spinal dorsal horn in an inflammatory pain model
Authors: Matsumura Shinji , Taniguchi Wataru , Nishida Kazuhiko , Nakatsuka Terumasa , Ito Seiji
Published: January 2015

Two‐photon microscopy imaging has recently been applied to the brain to clarify functional and structural synaptic plasticity in adult neural circuits. Whereas the pain system in the spinal cord is phylogenetically primitive and easily exhibits behavioral changes such as hyperalgesia in response to inflammation, the structural dynamics of dendrites has not been analysed in the spinal cord mainly due to tissue movements associated with breathing and heart beats. Here we present experimental procedures to prepare the spinal cord sufficiently to follow morphological changes of neuronal processes in vivo by using two‐photon microscopy and transgenic mice expressing fluorescent protein specific to the nervous system. Structural changes such as the formation of spine‐like structures and swelling of dendrites were observed in the spinal dorsal horn within 30 min after the multiple‐site injections of complete Freund's adjuvant (a chemical irritant) to a leg, and these changes continued for 5 h. Both AMPA and N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonists, and gabapentin, a presynaptic Ca2+ channel blocker, completely suppressed the inflammation‐induced structural changes in the dendrites in the spinal dorsal horn. The present study first demonstrated by in vivo two‐photon microscopy imaging that structural synaptic plasticity occurred in the spinal dorsal horn immediately after the injection of complete Freund's adjuvant and may be involved in inflammatory pain. Furthermore, acute inflammation‐associated structural changes in the spinal dorsal horn were shown to be mediated by glutamate receptor activation.
Density of insect‐pollinated grassland plants decreases with increasing surrounding land‐use intensity
Authors: Clough Yann , Ekroos Johan , Báldi András , Batáry Péter , Bommarco Riccardo , Gross Nicolas , Holzschuh Andrea , Hopfenmüller Sebastian , Knop Eva , Kuussaari Mikko , Lindborg Regina , Marini Lorenzo , Öckinger Erik , Potts Simon G , Pöyry Juha , Roberts Stuart PM , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf , Smith Henrik G
Published: January 2015

Pollinator declines have raised concerns about the persistence of plant species that depend on insect pollination, in particular by bees, for their reproduction. The impact of pollinator declines remains unknown for species‐rich plant communities found in temperate seminatural grasslands. We investigated effects of land‐use intensity in the surrounding landscape on the distribution of plant traits related to insect pollination in 239 European seminatural grasslands. Increasing arable land use in the surrounding landscape consistently reduced the density of plants depending on bee and insect pollination. Similarly, the relative abundance of bee‐pollination‐dependent plants increased with higher proportions of non‐arable agricultural land (e.g. permanent grassland). This was paralleled by an overall increase in bee abundance and diversity. By isolating the impact of the surrounding landscape from effects of local habitat quality, we show for the first time that grassland plants dependent on insect pollination are particularly susceptible to increasing land‐use intensity in the landscape.
Correspondence between large‐scale ictal and interictal epileptic networks revealed by single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) and electroencephalography (EEG)–functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)
Authors: Tousseyn Simon , Dupont Patrick , Goffin Karolien , Sunaert Stefan , Van Paesschen Wim
Published: January 2015

Objective

Epilepsy is increasingly recognized as a network disorder, but the spatial relationship between ictal and interictal networks is still largely unexplored. In this work, we compared hemodynamic changes related to seizures and interictal spikes on a whole brain scale.

Methods

Twenty‐eight patients with refractory focal epilepsy (14 temporal and 14 extratemporal lobe) underwent both subtraction ictal single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT) coregistered to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) (SISCOM) and spike‐related electroencephalography (EEG–functional MRI (fMRI). SISCOM visualized relative perfusion changes during seizures, whereas EEG‐fMRI mapped blood oxygen level–dependent (BOLD) changes related to spikes. Similarity between statistical maps of both modalities was analyzed per patient using the following two measures: (1) correlation between unthresholded statistical maps (Pearson's correlation coefficient) and (2) overlap between thresholded images (Dice coefficient). Overlap was evaluated at a regional level, for hyperperfusions and activations and for hypoperfusions and deactivations separately, using different thresholds. Nonparametric permutation tests were applied to assess statistical significance (p ≤ 0.05).

Results

We found significant and positive correlations between hemodynamic changes related to seizures and spikes in 27 (96%) of 28 cases (median correlation coefficient 0.29 [range −0.12 to 0.62]). In 20 (71%) of 28 cases, spatial overlap between hyperperfusion on SISCOM and activation on EEG‐fMRI was significantly larger than expected by chance. Congruent changes were not restricted to the territory of the presumed epileptogenic zone, but could be seen at distant sites (e.g., cerebellum and basal ganglia). Overlap between ictal hypoperfusion and interictal deactivation was statistically significant in 22 (79%) of 28 patients. Despite the high rate of congruence, discrepancies were observed for both modalities.

Significance

We conclude that hemodynamic changes related to seizures and spikes varied spatially with the same sign and within a common network. Overlap was present in regions nearby and distant from discharge origin.
Terminology of psychogenic nonepileptic seizures
Authors: Brigo Francesco , Igwe Stanley C. , Ausserer Harald , Nardone Raffaele , Tezzon Frediano , Bongiovanni Luigi Giuseppe , Tinazzi Michele , Trinka Eugen
Published: January 2015

Several different terms have been used to describe “psychogenic nonepileptic seizures” (PNES) in the literature. In this study, we evaluated the most common English terms used to describe PNES on Google and in PubMed using multiple search terms (https://www.google.com and http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed). The information prevalence of the five terms most frequently used to refer to PNES in PubMed were: psychogenic non(‐)epileptic seizure(s), followed by pseudo(‐)seizure(s), non(‐)epileptic seizure(s), psychogenic seizure(s), and non(‐)epileptic event(s). The five most frequently adopted terms to describe PNES in Google were: psychogenic non(‐)epileptic seizure(s), followed by non(‐)epileptic event(s), psychogenic attack(s), non(‐)epileptic attack(s), and psychogenic non(‐)epileptic attack(s). The broad spectrum of synonyms used to refer to PNES in the medical literature reflects a lack of internationally accepted, uniform terminology for PNES. In addition to “seizure(s),” lay people use the word “attack(s)” to describe PNES. Although considered obsolete, some terms, e.g., pseudoseizure(s), are still used in the recent medical literature. Adopting a uniform terminology to describe PNES could facilitate communication between epileptologists, physicians without specific expertise in epilepsy, and patients.
Quality‐of‐life outcomes of initiating treatment with standard and newer antiepileptic drugs in adults with new‐onset epilepsy: Findings from the SANAD trial
Authors: Jacoby Ann , Sudell Maria , Tudur Smith Catrin , Crossley Joanne , Marson Anthony G. , Baker Gus A. ,   the SANAD Study Group
Published: January 2015

Objective

To compare quality‐of‐life (QoL) outcomes over 2 years following initiation of treatment with a standard or newer antiepileptic drug (AED) in adults with new‐onset epilepsy. To examine the impact of seizure remission and failure of initial treatment on QoL outcomes measured over 2 years.

Methods

We conducted a pragmatic, randomized, unblinded, multicenter, parallel‐group clinical trial (the Standard and New Antiepileptic Drugs [SANAD] trial) comparing clinical and cost effectiveness of initiating treatment with carbamazepine versus lamotrigine, gabapentin, oxcarbazepine and topiramate, and valproate versus lamotrigine and topiramate. QoL data were collected by mail at baseline, 3 months, and at 1 and 2 years using validated measures. These data were analyzed using longitudinal data models. Continuous QoL measures, time to 12‐month remission and time to treatment withdrawal were explored using joint models.

Results

Baseline questionnaires were returned by 1,575 adults; 1,439 returned the 3‐month questionnaire, 1,274 returned the 1‐year questionnaire, and 1,121 returned the 2‐year questionnaire. There were few statistically significant differences between drugs over 2 years in QoL outcomes. Significant association was identified between QoL scores over the 2‐year time frame and the risk of experiencing a 12‐month remission or treatment withdrawal over that period.

Significance

The choice of initial treatment had no significant effect on QoL by 2‐year follow‐up. However, overall QoL was reduced with continued seizures, adverse events, and failure of the initial treatment.
Suppressing limbic seizures by stimulating medial dorsal thalamic nucleus: Factors for efficacy
Authors: Zhang De Xing , Bertram Edward H.
Published: January 2015

Objective

The optimal sites and stimulation protocols for brain stimulation in epilepsy have not been found. Clinical trials, which have shown modest benefit in seizure reduction, have involved patients with poorly localized intractable focal epilepsy and stimulation sites without clear relations to specific underlying seizure circuits. The medial dorsal thalamic nucleus is a key node in limbic seizure circuits, and we wished to know what stimulation parameters might control seizures in a kindling model of limbic epilepsy.

Methods

In urethane‐anesthetized rats, we induced limbic seizures by stimulation of the piriform cortex or CA3 of the hippocampus while recording in the entorhinal cortex or CA1 of the contralateral hippocampus to determine the effect of specific stimulation parameters on seizure duration.

Results

Stimulation consistently suppressed seizure duration from baseline by over 80% (p < 0.001), frequently completely preventing the seizures. Position of the thalamic electrode, stimulus intensity and frequency had a significant influence, with higher stimulus intensities (40 V vs. 20 V) and frequencies (20 Hz vs. 7 Hz) significantly suppressing seizures. The most effective position was the lateral dorsal area of the medial dorsal nucleus (MD), which corresponded to the region of axon entry. Stimulation in the MD center was not effective. An anterior‐posterior relationship of the stimulating electrode pair was effective, whereas a medial lateral orientation was not. Successful stimulation suppressed the evoked responses in the entorhinal cortex or CA1.

Significance

Position and orientation of the stimulating electrode has to be precise, which suggests that the placement of the electrodes must be tailored to the individual's own seizure circuit. The data also indicate that successful deep brain stimulation induces a fundamental change in system physiology, which could be a marker to guide the development of stimulation parameters for each patient.