bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Morphology of Richards' gland in the swarm‐founding wasp Protonectarina sylveirae (Hymenoptera, Vespidae)
Authors: da Silva Marjorie , Noll Fernando Barbosa , Billen Johan
Published: June 2014

Richards' gland is known for the majority of Epiponini wasps, and despite few experimental evidences, the taxonomic distribution in swarm‐founder species and the function of this gland remain rather unclear. This work presents a morphological description of Richards' gland in Protonectarina sylveirae. The gland is formed by a cluster of class 3 cells underneath the anterior margin of the fifth metasomal sternite, and a reservoir formed by the intersegmental membrane between the fourth and fifth metasomal sternites where the secretion can be stored. The secretory cells contain a branched end apparatus that carries the secretory products towards the duct cell. Externally, the cuticle of the sternite, where the duct cells penetrate, is characterized by modifications as scales with very numerous pores. The presence of Richards' gland according to the model proposed by Samacá et al. 2013 in Protonectarina corroborates the single origin of this gland in Epiponini. The occurrence of a Golgi apparatus and smooth endoplasmic reticulum suggests pheromone production.
The impact of interventions by pharmacists in community pharmacies on control of hypertension: a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Cheema Ejaz , Sutcliffe Paul , Singer Donald R. J.
Published: June 2014

Aims

To undertake a systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials concerned with the impact of community pharmacist‐led interventions on blood pressure control in patients with hypertension.

Methods

Eight electronic databases were searched up to 30 November 2013, with no start date (Web of Science, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Medline Ovid, Biomed Central, Biosis Citation Index, CINAHL, PsycINFO). All studies included were randomized controlled trials involving patients with hypertension, with or without cardiovascular‐related co‐morbidities, with difference in blood pressure as an outcome. Data collected included the study design, baseline characteristics of study populations, types of interventions and outcomes. The Cochrane tool was used to assess risk of bias.

Results

From 340 articles identified on initial searching, 16 randomized controlled trials (3032 patients) were included. Pharmacist‐led interventions were patient education on hypertension, management of prescribing and safety problems associated with medication, and advice on lifestyle. These interventions were associated with significant reductions in systolic [11 studies (2240 patients); −6.1 mmHg (95% confidence interval, −3.8 to −8.4 mmHg); P < 0.00001] and diastolic blood pressure [11 studies (2246 patients); −2.5 mmHg (95% confidence interval, −1.5 to −3.4 mmHg); P < 0.00001].

Conclusions

Community pharmacist‐led interventions can significantly reduce systolic and diastolic blood pressure. These interventions could be useful for improving clinical management of hypertension.
The market valuation of ethical assets in Spain: an application of the hedonic pricing method
Authors: Bilbao‐Terol Celia , Cañal‐Fernández Verónica
Published: June 2014

The aim of this paper is to calculate the market valuation of non‐financial characteristics, namely, the social responsibility criteria (social, ethical and environmental) included in the Spanish Socially Responsible Investment Funds. The hedonic price method is applied for this purpose. This method relates the price of Socially Responsible Investment Funds with both financial and social responsibility characteristics. Because of the large number of social responsibility characteristics included in these funds, prior to application of the hedonic price method, the principal components factor analysis technique is used. The data are taken from the prospectus for each fund and from the data provided by the National Securities Market Commission. Results indicate that the Spanish market is sensitive to the social responsibility practices of companies. In particular, the market value practices related to environmental sustainability, the enforcement of labour rights, sustainable production and consumption and non‐abusive market practices.
Happiness and the market: the ontology of the human being in Thomas Aquinas and modern functionalism
Authors: Visentin Marco
Published: June 2014

In this paper, we aim at identifying a concept of man that can represent a reference point for those who work or supervise social processes characterized by commercial or economic purposes. Economic, management, and organizational theories and ideas have a large impact on the way we think of ourselves, and we act accordingly. By making a radical departure from the ontological assumptions, this paper proposes a shifting of the current paradigm in terms of how we theorize about man. In order to do this, we analyze the ontological level of the relationship between the idea of happiness and the concept of man from medieval scholastics, and the relationship between the idea of happiness and functionalism in social science. We first prove the formal equivalence between the structures of human choice as described in the qq. 6–21 Prima Secundae of the Summa Theologiae of St. Thomas Aquinas, and the model of problem‐solving behavior as conceptualized in popular management models. Then we show that the Aquinas theory of action could provide a more adequate view of economy and business in the sociocultural and environmental context in which they operate. Finally, we present the implications of this study for management theory, practice, and education.
More powerful genetic association testing via a new statistical framework for integrative genomics
Authors: Zhao Sihai D. , Cai T. Tony , Li Hongzhe
Published: June 2014

Integrative genomics offers a promising approach to more powerful genetic association studies. The hope is that combining outcome and genotype data with other types of genomic information can lead to more powerful SNP detection. We present a new association test based on a statistical model that explicitly assumes that genetic variations affect the outcome through perturbing gene expression levels. It is shown analytically that the proposed approach can have more power to detect SNPs that are associated with the outcome through transcriptional regulation, compared to tests using the outcome and genotype data alone, and simulations show that our method is relatively robust to misspecification. We also provide a strategy for applying our approach to high‐dimensional genomic data. We use this strategy to identify a potentially new association between a SNP and a yeast cell's response to the natural product tomatidine, which standard association analysis did not detect.
Linear mixed function‐on‐function regression models
Authors: Wang Wei
Published: June 2014

We develop a linear mixed regression model where both the response and the predictor are functions. Model parameters are estimated by maximizing the log likelihood via the ECME algorithm. The estimated variance parameters or covariance matrices are shown to be positive or positive definite at each iteration. In simulation studies, the approach outperforms in terms of the fitting error and the MSE of estimating the “regression coefficients.”
Mutations in cardiovascular connexin genes
Authors: Molica Filippo , Meens Merlijn J.P. , Morel Sandrine , Kwak Brenda R.
Published: June 2014

Connexins (Cxs) form a family of transmembrane proteins comprising 21 members in humans. Cxs differ in their expression patterns, biophysical properties and ability to combine into homomeric or heteromeric gap junction channels between neighbouring cells. The permeation of ions and small metabolites through gap junction channels or hemichannels confers a crucial role to these proteins in intercellular communication and in maintaining tissue homeostasis. Among others, Cx37, Cx40, Cx43, Cx45 and Cx47 are found in heart, blood and lymphatic vessels. Mutations or polymorphisms in the genes coding for these Cxs have not only been implicated in cardiovascular pathologies but also in a variety of other disorders. While mutations in Cx43 are mostly linked to oculodentodigital dysplasia, Cx47 mutations are associated with Pelizaeus–Merzbacher‐like disease and lymphoedema. Cx40 mutations are principally linked to atrial fibrillation. Mutations in Cx37 have not yet been described, but polymorphisms in the Cx37 gene have been implicated in the development of arterial disease. This review addresses current knowledge on gene mutations in cardiovascular Cxs systematically and links them to alterations in channel properties and disease.
Impaired T cell activation and cytokine production by calcitriol-primed human B cells
Authors: Drozdenko G , Scheel T , Heine G , Baumgrass R , Worm M
Published: June 2014

The biologically active form of vitamin D3, 1, 25-dihydroxyvitamin D3 (calcitriol), is a potent modulator of the immune response. We have shown previously that calcitriol modulates the immunoglobulin response in vitro and in vivo in mice and humans. To analyse the underlying molecular mechanisms we studied whether calcitriol-primed B cells modulate T cell activation and function. Human B cells were stimulated with anti-CD40 and interleukin (IL)-4 in the presence of increasing concentrations of calcitriol. After removal of calcitriol, primed B cells were co-cultured with autologous CD4+T cells; the B cell phenotype T cell activation and their consecutive cytokine production were also assessed. Naive T cells co-cultured with calcitriol-primed naive B cells showed a reduced expansion, nuclear factor of activated T cells, cytoplasmic 2 (NFATc2) expression and cytokine production upon restimulation. CD86 expression on B cells after calcitriol priming was identified as an underlying mechanism, as T cell activation and expansion was rescued by activating anti-CD28 antibodies. Our data indicate that calcitriol-primed B cells display an impaired capacity to activate T cells. Taken together, we identified a novel B cell-dependent vitamin D immune regulatory mechanism, namely by decreased co-stimulation of calcitriol-primed B cells.
Polyphyly of Caddoidea, reinstatement of the family Acropsopilionidae in Dyspnoi, and a revised classification system of Palpatores (Arachnida, Opiliones)
Authors: Groh Sebastian S. , Giribet Gonzalo
Published: June 2014

Among the least studied harvestmen are the members of the family Caddidae sensu Shear, 1975, a group of Opiliones with massive eyes and the putative sister group of the remaining Eupnoi. Caddids were originally described as two families, Caddidae and Acropsopilionidae, but these are currently treated as subfamilies of Caddidae. These minute arachnids are rarely collected and present some interesting biogeographical patterns, including a disjunct distribution between East Asia and eastern North America, and some of the few cases of trans‐Pacific genera in southern hemisphere Opiliones. We therefore obtained samples from most of the landmasses inhabited by Caddidae and undertook a phylogenetic study using nuclear and mitochondrial genes for as many samples as possible. Our results, based on a broad taxonomic sampling, surprisingly showed polyphyly of Caddidae, with the genus Caddo forming the sister group of the remaining Eupnoi, whereas the southern hemisphere genera, many of which were originally placed in Acropsopilionidae, within Dyspnoi, formed the sister clade of the remaining Dyspnoi. In addition, the more recently described genus Hesperopilio, from Western Australia and Chile, was unrelated to either Caddidae or Acropsopilionidae, despite having the supposedly diagnostic large ocularium, and instead appeared deeply nested within the Eupnoi superfamily Phalangioidea. Our results are robust to analytical treatment and to homology scheme (dynamic vs. static notions of homology), resulting in a new phylogenetic proposal for Eupnoi and Dyspnoi. Ancestral state reconstruction suggests that the ancestral Palpatores was probably a tiny harvestman with an enlarged ocularium and glandular palpal setae in its enlarged and armed palps. We take the following taxonomic actions: Acropsopilionidae is removed from synonymy under Caddidae and its family status and membership in Dyspnoi are restored. Hesperopilio Shear, 1996 is removed from Caddoidea/Caddidae and transferred to Phalangioidea, but it is not assigned to any family.
Bone loss after ridge expansion with or without reflection of the periosteum
Authors: Stricker Andres , Fleiner Jonathan , Stübinger Stefan , Schmelzeisen Rainer , Dard Michel , Bosshardt Dieter D.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To evaluate the role of the periosteum in preserving the buccal bone after ridge splitting and expansion with simultaneous implant placement.

Material and methods

In 12 miniature pigs, the mandibular premolars and first molars were removed together with the interdental bone septa and the buccal bone. Three months later, ridge splitting and expansion of the buccal plate was performed with simultaneous placement of two titanium implants per quadrant. Access by a mucosal flap (MF) was prepared on test sides, while a mucoperiosteal flap (MPF) with complete denudation of the buccal bone was increased on control sides. After healing periods of six and 12 weeks, the animals were sacrificed for histologic and histometric evaluation.

Results

In the MF group, all 16 implants were osseointegrated, while in the MPF group, four of 16 implants were lost. Noticeable differences of bone levels on the implant surface and of the bone crest (BC) were found between the MF and the MPF group. Buccally after 6 weeks, the median distance between the implant shoulder (IS) and the coronal‐most bone on the implant (cBIC) was for the MF group −1.42 ± 0.42 mm and for the MPF group −4.80 ± 2.72 mm (P = 0.15). The median distance between the IS and the buccal BC was −1.24 ± 0.51 mm and −2.78 ± 1.98 mm (P = 0.12) for the MF and MPF group, respectively. After 12 weeks, median IS‐cBICwas −2.12 ± 0.84 mm for MF and −7.19 mm for MPF, while IS‐BC was −2.08 ± 0.79 mm for MF and −5.96 mm for MPF. After 6 weeks, the median buccal bone thickness for MF and MPF was 0.01 and 0 mm (P < 0.001) at IS, 1.48 ± 0.97 mm and 0 ± 0.77 mm (P = 0.07) at 2 mm apical to IS, and 2.12 ± 1.19 mm and 1.72 ± 01.50 mm (P = 0.86) at 4 mm apical to IS, respectively. After 12 weeks, buccal bone thickness in the MF group was 0 mm at IS, 0.21 mm at 2 mm apical to IS, and 2.56 mm at 4 mm apical to IS, whereas complete loss of buccal bone was measured from IS to 4 mm apical to IS for the MPF group.

Conclusions

In this ridge expansion model in miniature pigs, buccal bone volume was significantly better preserved when the periosteum remained attached to the bone.
The efficacy of 12 weeks supervised exercise in obesity management
Authors: Herring L. Y. , Wagstaff C. , Scott A.
Published: June 2014

The objective of this randomized controlled trial was to investigate the effect of adding either aerobic training (AT) or resistance training (RT) to a multidisciplinary teamed (MDT) educational weight management programme on the health‐related fitness of morbidly obese individuals. Males (n = 9) and females (n = 24) aged between 24 and 68 years with a body mass index (BMI) of ≥40 kg m2 (≥35 kg m2 with comorbidities) undertaking a weight management programme were recruited (Completion: M = 8, F = 19). Participants were randomly allocated to either AT (n = 12), RT (n = 11) or CON (n = 10). AT and RT undertook three structured ∼60 min moderate intensity sessions weekly, two supervised gym‐based and one structured home‐based session for 12 weeks; CON undertook usual care alone. Anthropometric, psychological and functional capacity measures were obtained pre‐ and post‐intervention. Both exercise interventions elicited improvements compared with CON in the: shuttle walk test (AT [Δ 207.0 ± 123.0 metres, 68.0%, P = 0.04], RT [Δ 165.0 ± 183.3 m, 48.8%, P = 0.06], CON [Δ −14.3 ± 38.7 m, −6.2%]), triceps skin‐fold (P ≤ 0.001), self‐efficacy (P = 0.005) and interest/enjoyment (P = 0.006). RT displayed additional improvements compared with CON in BMI (RT [Δ −1.02 ± 0.91 kg·m2, −2.5%, P = 0.033], AT [Δ −1.84 ± 2.70 kg·m2, −4.3%, P = 0.142], CON [Δ −0.31 ± 1.47 kg·m2, −0.6%]), waist circumference (P = 0.022), competence (P = 0.019), biceps skin‐fold (P = 0.012) and medial calf skin‐fold (P = 0.013). No significant differences were observed between exercise modalities. Regardless of exercise mode, the addition of supervised and structured exercise to a MDT weight management programme significantly improved anthropometric, functional and psychological measures in obese participants with a BMI of ≥35 kg·m2.
New‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation
Authors: Tufton N. , Ahmad S. , Rolfe C. , Rajkariar R. , Byrne C. , Chowdhury T. A.
Published: June 2014

Renal transplantation has important benefits in people with end‐stage renal disease, with improvements in mortality, morbidity and quality of life. Whilst significant advances in transplantation techniques and immunosuppressive regimens have led to improvements in short‐term outcomes, longer‐term outcomes have not improved dramatically. New‐onset diabetes after transplantation appears to be a major factor in morbidity and cardiovascular mortality in renal transplant recipients. The diagnosis of new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation has been hampered by a lack of clarity over diagnostic tests in early studies, although the use of the WHO criteria is now generally accepted. HbA1c may be useful diagnostically, but should probably be avoided in the first 3 months after transplantation. The pathogenesis of new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation is likely to be related to standard pathogenic factors in Type 2 diabetes (e.g. insulin resistance, β‐cell failure, inflammation and genetic factors) as well as other factors, such as hepatitis C infection, and could be exacerbated by the use of immunosuppression (glucocorticoids and calcineurin inhibitors). Pre‐transplant risk scores may help identify those people at risk of new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation. There are no randomized trials of treatment of new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation to determine whether intensive glucose control has an impact on cardiovascular or renal morbidity, therefore, treatment is guided by guidelines used in non‐transplant diabetes. Many areas of uncertainty in the pathogenesis, diagnosis and management of new‐onset diabetes after renal transplantation require further research.
Dietary magnesium intake and risk of metabolic syndrome: a meta‐analysis
Authors: Dibaba D. T. , Xun P. , Fly A. D. , Yokota K. , He K.
Published: June 2014

Aims

To estimate quantitatively the association between dietary magnesium intake and risk of metabolic syndrome by combining the relevant published articles using meta‐analysis.

Methods

We reviewed the relevant literature in PubMed and EMBASE published up until August 2013 and obtained additional information through Google or a hand search of the references in relevant articles. A random‐effects or fixed‐effects model, as appropriate, was used to pool the effect sizes on metabolic syndrome comparing individuals with the highest dietary magnesium intake with those having the lowest intake. The dose–response relationship was assessed for every 100‐mg/day increment in magnesium intake and risk of metabolic syndrome.

Result

Six cross‐sectional studies, including a total of 24 473 individuals and 6311 cases of metabolic syndrome, were identified as eligible for the meta‐analysis. A weighted inverse association was found between dietary magnesium intake and the risk of metabolic syndrome (odds ratio 0.69, 95% CI 0.59, 0.81) comparing the highest with the lowest group. For every 100‐mg/day increment in magnesium intake, the overall risk of having metabolic syndrome was lowered by 17% (odds ratio 0.83, 95% CI 0. 77, 0.89).

Conclusion

Findings from the present meta‐analysis suggest that dietary magnesium intake is inversely associated with the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. Further studies, in particular well‐designed longitudinal cohort studies and randomized placebo‐controlled clinical trials, are warranted to provide solid evidence and to establish causal inference.
Opportunities for improved distribution modelling practice via a strict maximum likelihood interpretation of MaxEnt
Authors: Halvorsen Rune , Mazzoni Sabrina , Bryn Anders , Bakkestuen Vegar
Published: June 2014

Maximum entropy (MaxEnt) modelling, as implemented in the Maxent software, has rapidly become one of the most popular methods for distribution modelling. Originally, MaxEnt was described as a machine‐learning method. More recently, it has been explained from principles of Bayesian estimation. MaxEnt offers numerous options (variants of the method) and settings (tuning of parameters) to the users. A widespread practice of accepting the Maxent software's default options and settings has been established, most likely because of ecologists’ lack of familiarity with machine‐learning and Bayesian statistical concepts and the ease by which the default models are obtained in Maxent. However, these defaults have been shown, in many cases, to be suboptimal and exploration of alternatives has repeatedly been called for. In this paper, we derive MaxEnt from strict maximum likelihood principles, and point out parallels between MaxEnt and standard modelling tools like generalised linear models (GLM). Furthermore, we describe several new options opened by this new derivation of MaxEnt, which may improve MaxEnt practice. The most important of these is the option for selecting variables by subset selection methods instead of the ℓ1‐regularisation method, which currently is the Maxent software default. Other new options include: incorporation of new transformations of explanatory variables and user control of the transformation process; improved variable contribution measures and options for variation partitioning; and improved output prediction formats. The new options are exemplified for a data set for the plant speciesScorzonera humilisin SE Norway, which was analysed by the standard MaxEnt procedure in a previously published paper. We recommend that thorough comparisons between the proposed alternative options and default procedures and variants thereof be carried out.
Influence of maternal habitat choice, environment and spatial distribution of juveniles on their propensity for anadromy in a partially anadromous population of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Liberoff Ana Laura , Quiroga Analia Pamela , Riva‐Rossi Carla Marcela , Miller Jessica Adele , Pascual Miguel Alberto
Published: June 2014

This study evaluated the importance of the environment and spatial distribution of juvenile fish for the adoption of alternative migratory tactics in a partially anadromous population of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) from the Santa Cruz River. We captured young‐of‐the‐year fish along the river during autumn 2009, 2010 and spring 2010 and determined their maternal origin (anadromous vs. resident) using strontium to calcium ratios in the otolith core. Relative proportion of anadromous offspring, modelled with logistic regression, increased towards headwaters and in areas with deeper channels and larger substrate composition. Body length, modelled with linear multiple regression, varied positively with site depth, water velocity, substrate size and anadromous maternal origin. Based on evidence for limited juvenile movements (<25 km), the spatial extent of this study (240 Rkm) and the identification of large, contrasting reaches along the river, it is likely that the observed spatial distribution of juveniles and their association to sites with coarse substrate composition reflects maternal spawning activity. Results further indicate that anadromous females breed predominantly in middle and upper river sections in areas with coarse substrate. Given that body size in this system has been positively related to propensity for anadromy, we propose that female spawning choice affects their offspring's spatial distribution, providing the adequate physical template for anadromous offspring to reach or maintain larger body sizes and display anadromy themselves. Relevance of this study is also discussed in the context of alterations in response to future dam construction in one of the latest free‐flowing rivers sustaining anadromous O. mykiss.
D2‐like dopamine receptors mediate regulation of pupal diapause in Chinese oak silkmoth Antheraea pernyi
Authors: Wang Qiushi , Hanatani Ikumi , Takeda Makio , Oishi Katsutaka , Sakamoto Katsuhiko
Published: June 2014

The present study investigated the pharmacological properties of dopamine receptors that functioned in the termination of pupal diapause in the Chinese oak silkmoth, Antheraea pernyi (Lepidoptera: Saturniidae). Dopamine receptors are classified according to their structure and function into two subfamilies as D1‐ and D2‐like receptors. D1‐like receptors activate, whereas D2‐like receptors inhibit, adenylate cyclase. We examined the effects of agonists and antagonists selective for D1‐ and D2‐like receptors on the diapause state. As A. pernyi is a long‐day species, pupal diapause is maintained during short days and can be terminated by exposure to a long‐day photoperiod. The D2‐like receptor‐selective agonist quinpirole delayed the timing of adult emergence under long days, and the D2‐receptor‐selective antagonist sulpiride terminated pupal diapause even under a short‐day photoperiod. The D1‐like receptor‐selective agonist and antagonist, SKF‐38393 and SCH‐23390, respectively, caused no significant effects on diapause pupae. These results suggest that not D1‐ but D2‐like receptors mediated diapause regulation in A. pernyi. This dopamine pathway appeared to block the termination of pupal diapause. Furthermore, the actions of the cAMP analog 8‐CPT‐cAMP and dopamine receptor antagonists upon diapause pupae were similar, which supports the notion that D2‐like receptors involved in diapause of this insect prevent adenylate cyclase from producing cAMP like vertebrate D2‐like receptors. Taken together, our findings suggest that dopamine blocked diapause termination through D2‐like receptors that inhibited adenylate cyclase in A. pernyi. During short days under which diapause was maintained in pupae, the dopaminergic mechanism might be stimulated to suppress cAMP levels in cells regulating diapause.
Public awareness: a useful tool for the early detection and a successful eradication of the longhorned beetles Anoplophora chinensis and A. glabripennis
Authors: Ciampitti M. , Cavagna B.
Published: June 2014

Anoplophora chinensis and A. glabripennis, two longhorned beetles, are natives of Asia and are considered some of the most dangerous woodborers worldwide. Their infestations often go undetected for several years, allowing both species to colonize new areas undisturbed and reach population levels which are difficult to eradicate. In Italy, A. chinensis was first detected in 2001 near Milan, and in over a decade the Lombardy Plant Protection Service (PPS) has developed enough experience to contain this xylophagous pest. Thanks to these efforts, the Lombardy PPS staff realized that public awareness is pivotal for a successful and effective eradication program. Since the beginning of the infestation, the Lombardy Region has mounted a notable campaign of information through communication media designed to inform residents of the problem. The tools used have yielded interesting results.
Insights into the structure and function of fungal β‐mannosidases from glycoside hydrolase family 2 based on multiple crystal structures of the Trichoderma harzianum enzyme
Authors: Nascimento Alessandro S. , Muniz Joao Renato C. , Aparício Ricardo , Golubev Alexander M. , Polikarpov Igor
Published: June 2014

Hemicellulose is an important part of the plant cell wall biomass, and is relevant to cellulosic ethanol technologies. β‐Mannosidases are enzymes capable of cleaving nonreducing residues of β‐d‐mannose from β‐d‐mannosides and hemicellulose mannose‐containing polysaccharides, such as mannans and galactomannans. β‐Mannosidases are distributed between glycoside hydrolase (GH) families 1, 2, and 5, and only a handful of the enzymes have been structurally characterized to date. The only published X‐ray structure of a GH family 2 mannosidase is that of the bacterial Bacteroides thetaiotaomicron enzyme. No structures of eukaryotic mannosidases of this family are currently available. To fill this gap, we set out to solve the structure of Trichoderma harzianum GH family 2 β‐mannosidase and to refine it to 1.9‐Å resolution. Structural comparisons of the T. harzianum GH2 β‐mannosidase highlight similarities in its structural architecture with other members of GH family 2, reveal the molecular mechanism of β‐mannoside binding and recognition, and shed light on its putative galactomannan‐binding site.

Database

Coordinates and observed structure factor amplitudes have been deposited with the Protein Data Bank (4CVU and 4UOJ). The T. harzianum β‐mannosidase 2A nucleotide sequence has GenBank accession number BankIt1712036 GeneMark.hmm KJ624918.
Nitrogen cycling in canopy soils of tropical montane forests responds rapidly to indirect N and P fertilization
Authors: Matson Amanda L. , Corre Marife D. , Veldkamp Edzo
Published: June 2014

Although the canopy can play an important role in forest nutrient cycles, canopy‐based processes are often overlooked in studies on nutrient deposition. In areas of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) deposition, canopy soils may retain a significant proportion of atmospheric inputs, and also receive indirect enrichment through root uptake followed by throughfall or recycling of plant litter in the canopy. We measured net and gross rates of N cycling in canopy soils of tropical montane forests along an elevation gradient and assessed indirect effects of elevated nutrient inputs to the forest floor. Net N cycling rates were measured using the buried bag method. Gross N cycling rates were measured using 15N pool dilution techniques. Measurements took place in the field, in the wet and dry season, using intact cores of canopy soil from three elevations (1000, 2000 and 3000 m). The forest floor had been fertilized biannually with moderate amounts of N and P for 4 years; treatments included control, N, P, and N + P. In control plots, gross rates of NH4+ transformations decreased with increasing elevation; gross rates of NO3− transformations did not exhibit a clear elevation trend, but were significantly affected by season. Nutrient‐addition effects were different at each elevation, but combined N + P generally increased N cycling rates at all elevations. Results showed that canopy soils could be a significant N source for epiphytes as well as contributing up to 23% of total (canopy + forest floor) mineral N production in our forests. In contrast to theories that canopy soils are decoupled from nutrient cycling in forest floor soil, N cycling in our canopy soils was sensitive to slight changes in forest floor nutrient availability. Long‐term atmospheric N and P deposition may lead to increased N cycling, but also increased mineral N losses from the canopy soil system.
Comparing annual and perennial crops for bioenergy production – influence on nitrate leaching and energy balance
Authors: Pugesgaard Siri , Schelde Kirsten , Larsen Søren Ugilt , Lærke Poul Erik , Jørgensen Uffe
Published: June 2014

Production of energy crops is promoted as a means to mitigate global warming by decreasing dependency on fossil energy. However, agricultural production of bioenergy can have various environmental effects depending on the crop and production system. In a field trial initiated in 2008, nitrate concentration in soil water was measured below winter wheat, grass‐clover and willow during three growing seasons. Crop water balances were modelled to estimate the amount of nitrate leached per hectare. In addition, dry matter yields and nitrogen (N) yields were measured, and N balances and energy balances were calculated. In willow, nitrate concentrations were up to approximately 20 mg l−1 nitrate‐N during the establishment year, but declined subsequently to <5 mg l−1 nitrate‐N, resulting in an annual N leaching loss of 18, 3 and 0.3 kg ha−1 yr−1 N in the first 3 years after planting. A similar trend was observed in grass‐clover where concentrations stabilized at 2–4 mg l−1 nitrate‐N from the beginning of the second growing season, corresponding to leaching of approximately 5 kg ha−1 yr−1 N. In winter wheat, an annual N leaching loss of 36–68 kg ha−1 yr−1 was observed. For comparison, nitrate leaching was also measured in an old willow crop established in 1996 from which N leaching ranged from 6 to 27 kg ha−1 yr−1. Dry matter yields ranged between 5.9 and 14.8 Mg yr−1 with lowest yield in the newly established willow and the highest yield harvested in grass‐clover. Grass‐clover gave the highest net energy yield of 244 GJ ha−1 yr−1, whereas old willow, winter wheat and first rotation willow gave net energy yields of 235, 180 and 105 GJ ha−1 yr−1. The study showed that perennial crops can provide high energy yields and significantly reduce N losses compared to annual crops.
Novel investigations on the protective role of the FVIII/VWF complex in inhibitor development
Authors: Mannucci P. M. , Shi Q. , Bonanad S. , Klamroth R.
Published: June 2014

Development of inhibitory antibodies to infused factor VIII (FVIII) concentrates is the most serious unresolved complication of haemophilia A treatment. Systematic reviews suggest a twofold higher incidence of inhibitors with recombinant (rFVIII) vs. plasma‐derived (pdFVIII) FVIII products, but study methodologies vary widely. The lower immunogenicity of pdFVIII concentrates is believed to derive from the presence of von Willebrand factor (VWF) which acts as protector and chaperone for FVIII. Several novel investigations reinforce the protective role of the VWF/FVIII complex in inhibitor development. At the basic science level, numerous in vitro and in vivo experiments have demonstrated that VWF‐containing pdFVIII concentrates (pdFVIII/VWF) provide better protection against inhibitor neutralization than rFVIII products. Conformational aspects of the binding between VWF and FVIII are thought to prevent the ‘attack’ on FVIII by inhibitory antibodies. VWF/FVIII binding is 100% in pdFVIII products but only 80% in recombinant products and this ‘free’ FVIII may be a target for inhibitory antibodies. At the clinical level, newer strategies to prevent inhibitor development in previously untreated patients with severe haemophilia are under investigation. The concept of early prophylaxis (before the onset of a bleed) is convincing from a theoretical point of view but requires further evaluation. The Study on Inhibitors in Plasma‐Product Exposed Toddlers is specifically addressing the issue of relative immunogenicity between classes of FVIII product (recombinant vs. plasma‐derived). Currently nearing its target enrolment of 300 patients, this international randomized controlled trial is expected to provide some definitive answers about this ever‐present clinical dilemma.
Treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma in Japan over the last three decades: Our experience and published work review
Authors: Osaki Yukio , Nishikawa Hiroki
Published: June 2014

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common causes of cancer‐related mortality worldwide. In the last few decades, there has been a marked increase in therapeutic options for HCC and epidemiological characteristics at HCC diagnosis have also significantly changed. With these changes and advances in medical technology and surveillance program for detecting earlier stage HCC, survival in patients with HCC has significantly improved. Especially, patients with liver cirrhosis are at high risk of HCC development, and regular surveillance could enable early detection of HCC and curative therapy, with potentially improved clinical outcome. However, unfortunately, only 20% of HCC patients are amenable to curative therapy (liver transplantation, surgical resection or ablative therapies). Locoregional therapies such as radiofrequency ablation, percutaneous ethanol injection, microwave coagulation therapy and transcatheter arterial chemoembolization play a key role in the management of unresectable HCC. Currently, molecular‐targeted agents such as sorafenib have emerged as a promising therapy for advanced HCC. The choice of the treatment modality depends on the size of the tumor, tumor location, anatomical considerations, number of tumors present and liver function. Furthermore, new promising therapies such as gene therapy and immunotherapy for HCC have emerged. Approaches to the HCC diagnosis and adequate management for patients with HCC are improving survival. Herein, we review changes of epidemiological characteristics, prognosis and therapies for HCC and refer to current knowledge for this malignancy based on our experience of approximately 4000 HCC cases over the last three decades.
European Mobilities or Poverty Migration? Discourses on Roma in Germany
Authors: Castañeda Heide
Published: June 2014

This article discusses the discursive framing of displacement and legitimacy for Roma migrants living in Germany to explore distinctions between “economic” and “forced” migration. Despite efforts towards their inclusion at the EU level, there has been an escalation in anti‐Roma sentiment across Europe simultaneous with increased transnational mobility. Based on media analysis and ethnographic research spanning 2011 to 2013, the inconsistencies and ironies associated with distinctions between voluntary and forced migration – and the consequences of this distinction for experiences in a host country – are illustrated using three cases. These highlight the range of reactions to Roma as “poverty migrants” (with its a priori assumption about welfare needs) to “bogus” or illegitimate refugees, even when fleeing desperate circumstances. These framings, and the inconsistencies they inherently entail, highlight investment in European identity and citizenship as migrants are defined, categorized, and managed by states seeking to curtail population movements deemed problematic.
Split‐root systems applied to the study of the legume‐rhizobial symbiosis: What have we learned?
Authors: Larrainzar Estíbaliz , Gil‐Quintana Erena , Arrese‐Igor Cesar , González Esther M. , Marino Daniel
Published: June 2014

Split‐root system (SRS) approaches allow the differential treatment of separate and independent root systems, while sharing a common aerial part. As such, SRS is a useful tool for the discrimination of systemic (shoot origin) versus local (root/nodule origin) regulation mechanisms. This type of approach is particularly useful when studying the complex regulatory mechanisms governing the symbiosis established between legumes and Rhizobium bacteria. The current work provides an overview of the main insights gained from the application of SRS approaches to understand how nodule number (nodulation autoregulation) and nitrogen fixation are controlled both under non‐stressful conditions and in response to a variety of stresses. Nodule number appears to be mainly controlled at the systemic level through a signal which is produced by nodule/root tissue, translocated to the shoot, and transmitted back to the root system, involving shoot Leu‐rich repeat receptor‐like kinases. In contrast, both local and systemic mechanisms have been shown to operate for the regulation of nitrogenase activity in nodules. Under drought and heavy metal stress, the regulation is mostly local, whereas the application of exogenous nitrogen seems to exert a regulation of nitrogen fixation both at the local and systemic levels.
HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibition prior to transient focal cerebral ischaemia is neuroprotective in mice
Authors: Chen Ruoli L. , Ogunshola O. O. , Yeoh Karkheng K. , Jani Anant , Papadakis Michalis , Nagel Simon , Schofield Christopher J. , Buchan Alastair M.
Published: June 2014

This study investigated the effects of 2‐(1‐chloro‐4‐hydroxyisoquinoline‐3‐carboxamido) acetic acid (IOX3), a selective small molecule inhibitor of hypoxia‐inducible factor (HIF) prolyl hydroxylases, on mouse brains subject to transient focal cerebral ischaemia. Male, 8‐ to 12‐week‐old C57/B6 mice were subjected to 45 min of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) either immediately or 24 h after receiving IOX3. Mice receiving IOX3 at 20 mg/kg 24 h prior to the MCAO had better neuroscores and smaller blood–brain barrier (BBB) disruption and infarct volumes than mice receiving the vehicle, whereas those having IOX3 at 60 mg/kg showed no significant changes. IOX3 treatment immediately before MCAO was not neuroprotective. IOX3 up‐regulated HIF‐1α, and increased EPO expression in mouse brains. In an in vitro BBB model (RBE4 cell line), IOX3 up‐regulated HIF‐1α and delocalized ZO‐1. Pre‐treating IOX3 on RBE4 cells 24 h before oxygen–glucose deprivation had a protective effect on endothelial barrier preservation with ZO‐1 being better localized, while immediate IOX3 treatment did not. Our study suggests that HIF stabilization with IOX3 before cerebral ischaemia is neuroprotective partially because of BBB protection, while immediate application could be detrimental. These results provide information for studies aimed at the therapeutic activation of HIF pathway for neurovascular protection from cerebral ischaemia.

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We show that IOX3, a selective small molecule (280.66 Da) HIF prolyl hydroxylase inhibitor, could up‐regulate HIF‐1α and increase erythropoietin expression in mice. We further demonstrate that HIF stabilization with IOX3 before cerebral ischaemia is neuroprotective partially because of blood–brain barrier (BBB) protection, while immediate application is detrimental both in vivo and in vitro. These findings provide new insights into the role of HIF stabilization in ischaemic stroke.
Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN): what we need and what we know
Authors: Cavaletti Guido
Published: June 2014

Chemotherapy‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (CIPN) is one of the most frequent and severe long‐term side effects of cancer chemotherapy. Preclinical and clinical studies have extensively investigated CIPN searching for effective strategies to limit its severity or to treat CIPN‐related impairment, but the results have been disappointing. Among the reasons for this failure are methodological flaws in both preclinical and clinical investigations. Their successful resolution might provide a brighter perspective for future studies. Among the several neurotoxic chemotherapy drugs, oxaliplatin may offer a clear example of a methodological approach eventually leading to successful clinical trials. However, the same considerations apply to the other neurotoxic agents and, although frequently neglected, also to the new “targeted” agents.
Bone augmentation using a highly porous PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold containing fibroblast growth factor‐2
Authors: Yoshida T. , Miyaji H. , Otani K. , Inoue K. , Nakane K. , Nishimura H. , Ibara A. , Shimada A. , Ogawa K. , Nishida E. , Sugaya T. , Sun L. , Fugetsu B. , Kawanami M.
Published: June 2014

Background and Objective

Beta‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP), a bio‐absorbable ceramic, facilitates bone conductivity. We constructed a highly porous three‐dimensional scaffold, using β‐TCP, for bone tissue engineering and coated it with co‐poly lactic acid/glycolic acid (PLGA) to improve the mechanical strength and biological performance. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of implantation of the PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold loaded with fibroblast growth factor‐2 (FGF‐2) on bone augmentation.

Material and Methods

The β‐TCP scaffold was fabricated by the replica method using polyurethane foam, then coated with PLGA. The PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold was characterized by scanning electron miscroscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray diffraction, compressive testing, cell culture and a subcutaneous implant test. Subsequently, a bone‐forming test was performed using 52 rats. The β‐TCP scaffold, PLGA‐coated scaffold, and β‐TCP and PLGA‐coated scaffolds loaded with FGF‐2, were implanted into rat cranial bone. Histological observations were made at 10 and 35 d postsurgery.

Results

SEM and TEM observations showed a thin PLGA layer on the β‐TCP particles after coating. High porosity (> 90%) of the scaffold was exhibited after PLGA coating, and the compressive strength of the PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold was six‐fold greater than that of the noncoated scaffold. Good biocompatibility of the PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold was found in the culture and implant tests. Histological samples obtained following implantation of PLGA/β‐TCP scaffold loaded with FGF‐2 showed significant bone augmentation.

Conclusion

The PLGA coating improved the mechanical strength of β‐TCP scaffolds while maintaining high porosity and tissue compatibility. PLGA/β‐TCP scaffolds, in combination with FGF‐2, are bioeffective for bone augmentation.
What became of Hystrix?
Authors: ZHANG Hai‐Qin , YANG Rui‐Wu , YANG Cai‐Rong , HUANG Yan , FAN Xing , SHA Li‐Na , KANG Hou‐Yang , WANG Yi , ZHOU Yong‐Hong
Published: June 2014

Hystrix Moench was a perennial genus of the Triticeae. Its members differed from those of other genera in the tribe in lacking glumes. The type species is H. patula Moench, a North American taxon. When it became accepted that H. patula should be included in Elymus, Hystrix could not be used as a generic name. The problem became how to treat the other species that had been included in Hystrix. Hystrix patula, like many other species of Elymus, has the StH genomic composition but H. coreana (Honda) Ohwi, H. californica (Bol.) Kuntze, H. duthiei (Stapf) Bor ssp. duthiei, and H. duthiei ssp. longearistata have the NsXm genomic composition that is associated with Leymus. Using genomic in situ hybridization analysis, we showed that H. komarovii (Roshev.) Ohwi has an NsEe genomic composition, a combination not known from any other species. Hystrix sibirica (Trautv.) Kuntze and H. duthiei ssp. japonica are included in Leymus on morphological grounds. The status of H. kunlunensis K. S. Hao is not clear. In this paper, we summarize our results and those of others concerning what is now known and the problems that remain concerning the species that used to be included in Hystrix.
A vacuolar‐H+‐pyrophosphatase (TgVP1) is required for microneme secretion, host cell invasion, and extracellular survival of Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Liu Jing , Pace Douglas , Dou Zhicheng , King Thayer P. , Guidot Daniel , Li Zhu‐Hong , Carruthers Vern B. , Moreno Silvia N. J.
Published: June 2014

The vacuolar proton pyrophosphatase (H+‐PPase) of Toxoplasma gondii (TgVP1), a membrane proton pump, localizes to acidocalcisomes and a novel lysosome‐like compartment termed plant‐like vacuole (PLV) or vacuolar compartment (VAC). We report the characterization of a T. gondii null mutant for the TgVP1 gene. Propagation of these mutants decreased significantly because of deficient attachment and invasion of host cells, which correlated with deficient microneme secretion. Processing of cathepsin L (CPL) in these mutants was deficient only when the parasites were incubated in the presence of low concentrations of the vacuolar H+‐ATPase (V‐H+‐ATPase) inhibitor bafilomycin A1, suggesting that either TgVP1 or the T. gondii V‐H+‐ATPase (TgVATPase) are sufficient to support CPL processing. The lack of TgVP1 did not affect processing of micronemal proteins, indicating that it does not contribute to proMIC maturations. The TgVP1 null mutants were more sensitive to extracellular conditions and were less virulent in mice. We demonstrate that T. gondii tachyzoites possess regulatory volume decrease capability during hypo‐osmotic stress and this ability is impaired in TgVP1 null mutants implicating TgVP1 in osmoregulation. We hypothesize that osmoregulation is needed for host cell invasion and that TgVP1 plays a role during the normal lytic cycle of T. gondii.