bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The utilisation of grapeseed oil in improving the quality of dry fermented sausages
Authors: Stajić Slaviša , Živković Dušan , Tomović Vladimir , Nedović Viktor , Perunović Marija , Kovjanić Nataša , Lević Steva , Stanišić Nikola
Published: May 2014

This study aims to examine the scope of changes in colour, texture and sensory characteristics of fermented sausages by substituting 20% of backfat with grapeseed oil prepared as liquid (GS), encapsulated (EGS) and pre‐emulsified [with soy protein isolate (GSI) and alginate (GSA)], and their stability during 30 days of refrigerated storage. Protein and fat contents, pH and TBA values were not significantly different between products after production and storage. Treatments with added oil had higher weight loss (1.5–2.5%), while moisture content was significantly lowest in GS. Internal product colour evaluation showed the highest values of L*, b* and hue angle in GSI. GSI had the highest hardness and chewiness. Storage affected more surface than internal product colour, hardness was significantly changed only in GSI (lower) and EGS (higher), and increasing of TBA did not lead to significant differences between treatments. The study showed that GSA was the most promising of all treatments investigated.
The influence of social and organizational support on transfer of training: evidence from Thailand
Authors: Homklin Tassanee , Takahashi Yoshi , Techakanont Kriengkrai
Published: May 2014

This study focused on integrating social and organizational support as moderators into the main analysis model of the relationship between learning – specifically perceived knowledge retained – and its transfer as perceived by participants. We used hierarchical regression analysis in order to test our hypotheses. Results were generally supportive across knowledge retained and transfer. Findings further supported a hypothesized effect of knowledge retained and coworker support on transfer: higher levels of knowledge retained and coworker support increased the positive effects on higher transfer. Contrary to expectation, organizational and supervisory support did not show moderating effects. These results suggest that, in order to enhance transfer of training, organizations should focus more on creating environments that enhance coworker support, at least in the short term. However, for the longer term, organizations must improve the quality of other types of support as well in order to more effectively exploit the opportunities for training transfer.
Ligation of human Fc receptor like‐2 by monoclonal antibodies down‐regulates B‐cell receptor‐mediated signalling
Authors: Shabani Mahdi , Bayat Ali Ahmad , Jeddi‐Tehrani Mahmood , Rabbani Hodjatallah , Hojjat‐Farsangi Mohammad , Ulivieri Cristina , Amirghofran Zahra , Baldari Cosima Tatiana , Shokri Fazel
Published: May 2014

B‐cell antigen receptor (BCR) signalling and its regulation through negative and positive regulators are critical for balancing B‐cell response and function. Human Fc receptor like‐2 (FCRL2), a member of the newly identified FCRL family, could influence B‐cell signalling due to possession of both immunoreceptor tyrosine‐based activation and inhibitory motifs (ITAM and ITIM). Since the natural ligand of FCRL2 has not been identified, we generated FCRL2‐specific monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) and employed them to investigate the influence of FCRL2 stimulation on BCR signalling in an FCRL2‐expressing B‐cell line. Two anti‐FCRL2 mAb‐producing hybridoma clones (5A7‐E7 and 3D8‐G8) were selected. None of the mAbs displayed any cross‐reactivity with the other members of the FCRL family including recombinant FCRL1, ‐3, ‐4 and ‐5, as tested by FACS and ELISA techniques. Engagement of the FCRL2 by these mAbs resulted in significant inhibition of BCR signalling mediators such as calcium mobilization and phosphorylation of the mitogen‐activated protein kinases Erk, p38 and Jnk. These findings indicate that the FCRL2 ITIM motifs are functional and the anti‐FCRL2 mAbs may mimic the natural ligand of FCRL2 by induction of inhibitory signals in B cells.
Age and Sex Disparities in Discussions About Kidney Transplantation in Adults Undergoing Dialysis
Authors: Salter Megan L. , McAdams‐Demarco Mara A. , Law Andrew , Kamil Rebecca J. , Meoni Lucy A. , Jaar Bernard G. , Sozio Stephen M. , Linda Kao Wen Hong , Parekh Rulan S. , Segev Dorry L.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To explore whether disparities in age and sex in access to kidney transplantation (KT) originate at the time of prereferral discussions about KT.

Design

Cross‐sectional survey.

Setting

Outpatient dialysis centers in Maryland (n = 26).

Participants

Individuals who had recently initiated hemodialysis treatment (N = 416).

Measurements

Participants reported whether medical professionals (nephrologist, primary medical doctor, dialysis staff) and social group members (significant other, family member, friend) discussed KT with them and, when applicable, rated the tone of discussions. Relative risks were estimated using modified Poisson regression.

Results

Participants aged 65 and older were much less likely than those who were younger to have had discussions with medical professionals (44.5% vs 74.8%, P < .001) or social group members (47.3% vs 63.1%, P = .005). Irrespective of sex and independent of race, health‐related factors, and dialysis‐related characteristics, older adults were more likely not to have had discussions with medical professionals (relative risk (RR) = 1.13, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.03–1.24, for each 5‐year increase in age through 65; RR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.14–1.42, for each 5‐year increase in age beyond 65). Irrespective of age, women were more likely (RR = 1.45, 95% CI = 1.12–1.89) not to have had discussions with medical professionals. For each 5‐year increase in age, men (RR = 1.04, 95% CI = 0.99–1.10) and women (RR = 1.17, 95% CI = 1.10–1.24) were more likely not to have discussions with social group members. Of those who had discussions with medical professionals or social group members, older participants described these discussions as less encouraging (all P < .01).

Conclusion

Older adults and women undergoing hemodialysis are less likely than younger adults and men to have discussions about KT as a treatment option, supporting a need for better clinical guidelines and education for these individuals, their social network, and their providers.
Geriatric Syndromes in Individuals Admitted to Vascular and Urology Surgical Units
Authors: McRae Prudence J. , Peel Nancye M. , Walker Philip J. , de Looze Julian W. M. , Mudge Alison M.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To document the incidence of geriatric syndromes (delirium, functional decline, falls, and pressure ulcers) in two surgical units and to determine the association between the occurrence of geriatric syndromes and admission type (elective vs nonelective), severity of surgery, and surgical subspecialty unit.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

One vascular surgical unit and one urology surgical unit in an Australian tertiary teaching hospital.

Participants

Individuals aged 65 and older admitted to a study unit for 3 days or more (N = 112).

Measurements

Delirium was identified using a validated chart extraction tool. Functional decline from admission to discharge was identified from nursing documentation. Falls were identified according to documentation in the medical record cross‐checked with the hospital incident reporting system. Pressure ulcers were identified according to documentation in the medical record.

Results

Geriatric syndromes were present in 32% of participants. Delirium was identified in 21%, functional decline in 14%, falls in 8%, and pressure ulcers in 5%. Individuals admitted directly from the emergency or outpatient department and interhospital transfers (nonelective) were significantly more likely to develop any geriatric syndrome than those on an elective surgery list before admission to the hospital (41% vs 18%, P = .01). In multivariable analysis, nonelective admission (odds ratio (OR) = 3.3, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.6–4.7, P = .005), major surgery (OR = 3.1, 95% CI = 1.7–3.7, P = .004) and preexisting impairment in activities of daily living (OR 2.9, 95% CI 1.5–3.6, P = .007) increased the likelihood of geriatric syndromes.

Conclusion

Geriatric syndromes are common in older adults undergoing surgery, and nonelective admission and major surgery increase the likelihood of geriatric syndromes occurring during hospitalization. Baseline dependency in ADLs is an important risk factor for the occurrence of these conditions.
Reviews of Individual Patient Data (IPD) Are Useful for Geriatrics: An Overview of Available IPD Reviews
Authors: van de Glind Esther M. M. , Rhodius‐Meester Hanneke F. M. , Reitsma Johannes B. , Hooft Lotty , van Munster Barbara C.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To determine how many individual patient data (IPD) reviews that included older people were available in MEDLINE and whether the effectiveness of treatments differed between older and younger individuals.

Design

Overview of IPD reviews.

Setting

A MEDLINE search was conducted for IPD reviews of randomized controlled trials published before July 2012.

Participants

IPD reviews that presented a regression model that included age as a factor or a subgroup analysis of individuals aged 70 and older or in which all participants were aged 70 and older.

Measurements

Whether the IPD reviews reported similar conclusions for the younger and older populations was evaluated.

Results

Twenty‐six IPD reviews with a subgroup of older individuals and eight reviews with only older individuals were included (median N = 3,351). The most important reason for choosing an IPD review was the ability to perform a subgroup analysis in the older population. Fourteen IPD reviews suggested that older people should receive different treatments from younger people because of differences in effectiveness, six of which indicated that the investigated treatment(s) should be avoided in older adults.

Conclusion

IPD review is a valuable approach for generating evidence in older adults. Treatment effects frequently differed between older and younger individuals. Still, IPD results should be applied to older adults cautiously, because they are often excluded from primary trials. The collaborative sharing of raw data should be promoted to improve evidence‐based decisions for this group.
The Courage to Be a Geriatrician
Authors: Wright James L.
Published: May 2014

Nursing homes can be grim, frightening places to many who encounter them for the first time. Part of this reaction may come from the way nursing homes remind us of our own frailty, the limits of our hopes of never‐ending independence and self‐determination. This essay details one physician's struggle to find value in the lives of his nursing home residents, working against a cultural insistence that life's meaning and value depend upon one's actions and achievements. Searching for and finding meaning that transcends the accomplishments and failures of life, that out‐survives a failing mind and body is what allowed this physician to find the courage to resist his prejudices against the elderly and infirm. This courage to insist that life is of sufficient value as is, regardless of human ability, is what theologian Paul Tillich calls “the courage to be.”
Muscle Strength and Physical Performance as Predictors of Mortality, Hospitalization, and Disability in the Oldest Old
Authors: Legrand Delphine , Vaes Bert , Matheï Catharina , Adriaensen Wim , Van Pottelbergh Gijs , Degryse Jean‐Marie
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To evaluate the predictive value of muscle strength and physical performance in the oldest old for all‐cause mortality; hospitalization; and the onset of disability, defined as a decline in activities of daily living (ADLs), independent of muscle mass, inflammatory markers, and comorbidities.

Design

A prospective, observational, population‐based follow‐up study.

Setting

Three well‐circumscribed areas of Belgium.

Participants

Five hundred sixty participants aged 80 and older were followed for 33.5 months (interquartile range 31.1–35.6 months).

Measurements

Grip strength, Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score, and muscle mass were measured at baseline; ADLs at baseline and after 20 months; and all‐cause mortality and time to first hospitalization from inclusion onward. Kaplan‐Meier curves and Cox proportional hazards models were calculated for all‐cause mortality and hospitalization. Logistic regression analysis was used to determine predictors of decline in ADLs.

Results

Kaplan–Meier curves showed significantly higher all‐cause mortality and hospitalization in subjects in the lowest tertile of grip strength and SPPB score. The adjusted Cox proportional hazards model showed that participants with high grip strength or a high SPPB score had a lower risk of mortality and hospitalization, independent of muscle mass, inflammatory markers, and comorbidity. A relationship was found between SPPB score and decline in ADLs, independent of muscle mass, inflammation, and comorbidity.

Conclusion

In people aged 80 and older, physical performance is a strong predictor of mortality, hospitalization, and disability, and muscle strength is a strong predictor of mortality and hospitalization. All of these relationships were independent of muscle mass, inflammatory markers, and comorbidity.
Caregiver Experience During Advanced Chronic Illness and Last Year of Life
Authors: Sautter Jessica M. , Tulsky James A. , Johnson Kimberly S. , Olsen Maren K. , Burton‐Chase Allison M. , Hoff Lindquist Jennifer , Zimmerman Sheryl , Steinhauser Karen E.
Published: May 2014

Objectives

To compare the prevalence and predictors of caregiver esteem and burden during two different stages of care recipients' illnesses—advanced chronic illness and the last year of life.

Design

Longitudinal, observational cohort study.

Setting

Community sample recruited from outpatient clinics at Duke University and Durham Veterans Affairs Medical Centers.

Participants

Individuals with advanced cancer, congestive heart failure, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and their primary caregiver, retrospectively coded as chronic‐illness (n = 62) or end‐of‐life (EOL; n = 62) care recipient–caregiver dyads.

Measurements

Caregiver experience was measured monthly using the Caregiver Reaction Assessment, which includes caregiver esteem and four domains of burden: schedule, health, family, and finances.

Results

During chronic illness and at the end of life, high caregiver esteem was almost universal (95%); more than 25% of the sample reported health, family, and financial burden. Schedule burden was the most prevalent form of burden; EOL caregivers (58%) experienced it more frequently than chronic‐illness caregivers (32%). Caregiver esteem and all dimensions of burden were relatively stable over 1 year. Few factors were associated with burden.

Conclusion

Caregiver experience is relatively stable over 1 year and similar in caregivers of individuals in the last year of life and those earlier in the course of chronic illness. Schedule burden stands out as most prevalent and variable among dimensions of experience. Because prevalence of burden is not specific to stage of illness and is relatively stable over time, multidisciplinary healthcare teams should assess caregiver burden and refer burdened caregivers to supportive resources early in the course of chronic illness.
L‐Cysteine inhibits root elongation through auxin/PLETHORA and SCR/SHR pathway in Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Wang Zhen , Mao Jie‐Li , Zhao Ying‐Jun , Li Chuan‐You , Xiang Cheng‐Bin
Published: May 2014

L‐Cysteine plays a prominent role in sulfur metabolism of plants. However, its role in root development is largely unknown. Here, we report that L‐cysteine reduces primary root growth in a dosage‐dependent manner. Elevating cellular L‐cysteine level by exposing Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings to high L‐cysteine, buthionine sulphoximine, or O‐acetylserine leads to altered auxin maximum in root tips, the expression of quiescent center cell marker as well as the decrease of the auxin carriers PIN1, PIN2, PIN3, and PIN7 of primary roots. We also show that high L‐cysteine significantly reduces the protein level of two sets of stem cell specific transcription factors PLETHORA1/2 and SCR/SHR. However, L‐cysteine does not downregulate the transcript level of PINs, PLTs, or SCR/SHR, suggesting that an uncharacterized post‐transcriptional mechanism may regulate the accumulation of PIN, PLT, and SCR/SHR proteins and auxin transport in the root tips. These results suggest that endogenous L‐cysteine level acts to maintain root stem cell niche by regulating basal‐ and auxin‐induced expression of PLT1/2 and SCR/SHR. L‐Cysteine may serve as a link between sulfate assimilation and auxin in regulating root growth.
Relationship Education for Stepcouples Reporting Relationship Instability—Evaluation of the Smart Steps: Embrace the Journey Curriculum
Authors: Lucier‐Greer Mallory , Adler‐Baeder Francesca , Harcourt Kate Taylor , Gregson Kimberly D.
Published: May 2014

Smart Steps: Embrace the Journey is a research‐based educational curriculum for stepfamily couples (“stepcouples”). The curriculum is designed to build couple strengths while addressing the unique challenges of repartnering with a child or children from a previous relationship. This study evaluated the effectiveness of this curriculum with 151 individuals in relationally less stable stepcouple relationships who either engaged in the Smart Steps curriculum (n = 97) or were part of the comparison group (n = 54). This study represents methodological and conceptual advances in the study of stepfamily programs with the use of a comparison group, a racially and economically diverse sample, and a relationally at‐risk population. Results indicated that those who participated in Smart Steps reported significant increases in individual empowerment, couple quality, family harmony, and parenting efficacy while these measures were unchanged for those who did not receive the program. Implications for future research and for practitioners are provided.
Nonlinear optical microscopy with vibrational contrast
Authors: WINTERHALDER M. J. , ZUMBUSCH A.
Published: May 2014

Nonlinear optical techniques which provide vibrational contrast have gained increasing attention in microscopy during the last two decades. After outlining the potential of these techniques, we give a brief introduction to coherent anti‐Stokes Raman scattering, stimulated Raman scattering and sum frequency generation and discuss their suitability for contrast generation in optical microscopy. The rapid developments in these fields during the last decade have resulted in many different applications. Three exemplary application areas will therefore be presented in the last part of this manuscript.
Phylogenetic position of Sonneratia griffithii based on sequences of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer and 13 nuclear genes
Authors: YANG Yu‐Chen , YANG Shu‐Huan , FANG Lu , LI Jian‐Fang , ZHONG Cai‐Rong , ZHOU Ren‐Chao , SHI Su‐Hua
Published: May 2014

Compared with single gene analysis, multi‐locus sequence data usually perform better in resolving phylogenetic relationships of closely related species. Sonneratia (Lythraceae s.l.), a genus of mangroves, is widely distributed in the Indo‐West Pacific region. Sonneratia griffithii Kurz is one of the rarest species of this genus and morphological analyses have produced conflicting results regarding its affinity to other species of Sonneratia. In this study, we aimed to resolve the phylogenetic position of S. griffithii by using sequence data of the nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) and 13 nuclear genes. We first reconstructed the phylogeny of five Sonneratia species using nrITS and the nuclear gene rpl9, which showed that S. caseolaris (L.) Engl. diverged first from the other species and that S. griffithii was closer to S. apetala Buch.‐Ham. and S. ovata Backer; however, the relationships among S. griffithii, S. apetala, and S. ovata could not be resolved. Further phylogenetic analysis based on sequences of nrITS and 13 nuclear genes and using S. caseolaris as an outgroup showed that S. griffithii and S. apetala were sister species with high bootstrap support. We conclude that S. griffithii and S. apetala have the closest relationships. Furthermore, our phylogenetic analyses do not support previous intrageneric classifications of Sonneratia.
Population biology and secondary production of the harvested clam Tivela mactroides (Born, 1778) (Bivalvia, Veneridae) in Southeastern Brazil
Authors: Turra Alexander , Petracco Marcelo , Amaral Antonia Cecília Z. , Denadai Márcia R.
Published: May 2014

The population structure, growth and production of the trigonal clam Tivela mactroides were investigated by monthly sampling between January 2003 and October 2004 in two areas (southern and northern) of the intertidal and subtidal zones of Caraguatatuba Bay, Southeastern Brazil. Intertidal sampling was carried out in each area along eight transects perpendicular to the shoreline. In the subtidal zone of both areas, one 50‐m dredging was performed along five sampling stations arranged on three transects perpendicular to the coast. The intertidal abundance of T. mactroides was higher in the southern (more dissipative conditions) than in the northern area. High abundances occurred in February–March 2004 in the south and in September 2004 in the north. The size structure showed that younger individuals dominated in the sublittoral, indicating that recruitment occurs in this zone, followed by the migration of these individuals to the intertidal, where they complete their life cycle. Tivela mactroides showed continuous reproduction, with 26 cohorts detected in the study period. The lower estimates for the growth index (ϕ′ = 3.22), mortality rate (Z = 2.10 year−1) and turnover rate (P/B = 1.21 year−1), and conversely the longer life span (2.5 years) of T. mactroides in Caraguatatuba Bay (24°S) compared with Venezuelan populations (10°N) suggests a latitudinal pattern of these life‐history traits. The high production of T. mactroides in Caraguatatuba Bay was due to continuous recruitment and rapid and continuous growth, and demonstrates the importance of T. mactroides as a biological resource for many marine species and for the local residents.
Ectopically expressed sweet pepper ferredoxin PFLP enhances disease resistance to Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum affected by harpin and protease‐mediated hypersensitive response in Arabidopsis
Authors: Ger Mang‐Jye , Louh Guan‐Yu , Lin Yi‐Hsien , Feng Teng‐Yung , Huang Hsiang‐En
Published: May 2014

Plant ferredoxin‐like protein (PFLP) is a photosynthesis‐type ferredoxin (Fd) found in sweet pepper. It contains an iron–sulphur cluster that receives and delivers electrons between enzymes involved in many fundamental metabolic processes. It has been demonstrated that transgenic plants overexpressing PFLP show a high resistance to many bacterial pathogens, although the mechanism remains unclear. In this investigation, the PFLP gene was transferred into Arabidopsis and its defective derivatives, such as npr1 (nonexpresser of pathogenesis‐related gene 1) and eds1 (enhanced disease susceptibility 1) mutants and NAHG‐transgenic plants. These transgenic plants were then infected with the soft‐rot bacterial pathogen Pectobacterium carotovorum subsp. carotovorum (Erwinia carotovora ssp. carotovora, ECC) to investigate the mechanism behind PFLP‐mediated resistance. The results revealed that, instead of showing soft‐rot symptoms, ECC activated hypersensitive response (HR)‐associated events, such as the accumulation of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), electrical conductivity leakage and expression of the HR marker genes (ATHSR2 and ATHSR3) in PFLP‐transgenic Arabidopsis. This PFLP‐mediated resistance could be abolished by inhibitors, such as diphenylene iodonium (DPI), 1‐l‐trans‐epoxysuccinyl‐leucylamido‐(4‐guanidino)‐butane (E64) and benzyloxycarbonyl‐Val‐Ala‐Asp‐fluoromethylketone (z‐VAD‐fmk), but not by myriocin and fumonisin. The PFLP‐transgenic plants were resistant to ECC, but not to its harpin mutant strain ECCAC5082. In the npr1 mutant and NAHG‐transgenic Arabidopsis, but not in the eds1 mutant, overexpression of the PFLP gene increased resistance to ECC. Based on these results, we suggest that transgenic Arabidopsis contains high levels of ectopic PFLP; this may lead to the recognition of the harpin and to the activation of the HR and other resistance mechanisms, and is dependent on the protease‐mediated pathway.
Renal unit characteristics and patient education practices that predict a high prevalence of home‐based dialysis in Australia
Authors: Fortnum Debbie , Ludlow Marie , Morton Rachael L
Published: May 2014

Aim

The proportion of patients using home dialysis in Australia varies from 6% to 62% between renal units. The aim of this study was to determine if the variance is attributed to any underlying renal unit factors including pre‐end stage education practices.

Methods

An online survey was distributed to all Australian units that offered home dialysis. Logistic regression was performed to estimate the effects of renal unit characteristics on the binary outcome of <30% versus ≥30% of patients using home dialysis, and for ≥10% of patients using home haemodialysis (HHD) dialysis specifically. Prevalent home dialysis rates were sourced from the Australia and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant Association registry.

Results

33 of 43 units (77%) completed the survey. Factors shown to predict ≥30% of patients using home dialysis were; a metropolitan based renal unit compared with a rural or remote unit (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.01–1.15), a New South Wales unit compared with other states (OR 1.13, 95% CI 1.04–1.22), and a unit that offered multiple group education sessions per year (OR 1.01, 95% CI 1.01–1.02). A unit that offered >1 h of pre‐end stage education per patient, compared with ≤1 h predicted more than 10% of patients on HHD (OR 2.84, 95% CI 1.17–6.90).

Conclusion

Our data suggest certain pre‐end stage education practices are significantly associated with home dialysis rates above the national average. The consistent above average home dialysis rates witnessed in New South Wales appear to be the result of renal unit culture, education strategies and policies that support ‘home dialysis first’.
Chapelieria septentrionalis and C. multiflora spp. nov. (Rubiaceae, Octotropideae) and an emended description for C. madagascariensis
Authors: Davies Nina M. J. , Davis Aaron P.
Published: May 2014

Chapelieria is a genus endemic to Madagascar, currently comprising a single species: C. madagascariensis. In this contribution two new species of Chapelieria are described as new to science: C. septentrionalis and C. multiflora. An emended circumscription, description and line drawing are provided for C. madagascariensis. A full description, notes (distribution, habitat and ecology, phenology), a distribution map and conservation assessment are provided for each of the three species. An updated generic description and a species identification key are also given.
Closing gaps: linking elements that control stomatal movement
Authors: Kollist Hannes , Nuhkat Maris , Roelfsema M. Rob G.
Published: May 2014

Stomata are an attractive experimental system in plant biology, because the responses of guard cells to environmental signals can be directly linked to changes in the aperture of stomatal pores. In this review, the mechanics of stomatal movement are discussed in relation to ion transport in guard cells. Emphasis is placed on the ion pumps, transporters, and channels in the plasma membrane, as well as in the vacuolar membrane. The biophysical properties of transport proteins for H+, K+, Ca2+, and anions are discussed and related to their function in guard cells during stomatal movements. Guard cell signaling pathways forABA,CO2, ozone, microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) and blue light are presented. Special attention is given to the regulation of the slow anion channel (SLAC) and SLAC homolog (SLAH)‐type anion channels by theABAsignalosome. Over the last decade, several knowledge gaps in the regulation of ion transport in guard cells have been closed. The current state of knowledge is an excellent starting point for tackling important open questions concerning stress tolerance in plants.

ContentsSummary44I.Introduction44II.Mechanics of stomatal movement45III.Guard cells – specialists in ion transport46IV.Regulation of stomatal movement53V.Outlook56Acknowledgements57References57
Climatic effects and phenological mismatch in cuckoo–host interactions: a role for host phenotypic plasticity in laying date?
Authors: Avilés Jesús M. , Molina‐Morales Mercedes , Martínez Juan Gabriel
Published: May 2014

Climatic effects on breeding phenology vary across organisms and therefore might promote a phenological mismatch in ecologically interacting species, including those engaged in coevolutionary interactions such as brood parasites and their hosts. Recent studies suggest that climatic induced changes in migration phenology may have mismatched cuckoos and their hosts in Europe. However, it is currently unknown whether cuckoo–host phenological mismatch results from different degrees of phenotypic plasticity or to different speeds of microevolutionary processes affecting hosts and parasites. Here we performed 1) cross‐sectional correlations between climate conditions and population level of phenological mismatch between the migratory brood parasite great spotted cuckooClamator glandariusand its main resident host in Europe, the magpiePica pica; and 2) a longitudinal analysis to study within‐individual variation in breeding phenology for individual hosts experiencing different climate conditions over a period of nine years (2005–2013). Cross‐sectional analyses revealed independent and contrary effects of winter and spring temperature on magpie phenology: magpie hosts tend to breed earlier those years with lower February temperatures, however, high temperature in the first half of April spur individuals to lay eggs. Breeding phenology of cuckoos was tuned to that of their magpie host in time and duration. However, annual phenological mismatch between cuckoos and magpie hosts increased with NAO index and January temperature. Longitudinal analyses revealed high individual consistency in magpie host phenology, but a low influence of climate, suggesting that the climatic‐driven phenological mismatch between cuckoos and magpies at the population‐level cannot be explained by a host plastic response to climatic conditions.
The Semantic Significance of Faultless Disagreement
Authors: Palmira Michele
Published: May 2014

The article investigates the significance of the so‐called phenomenon of apparent faultless disagreement for debates about the semantics of taste discourse. Two kinds of description of the phenomenon are proposed. The first ensures that faultless disagreement raises a distinctive philosophical challenge; yet, it is argued that Contextualist, Realist and Relativist semantic theories do not account for this description. The second, by contrast, makes the phenomenon irrelevant for the problem of what the right semantics of taste discourse should be. Lastly, the following dilemma is assessed: either faultless disagreement provides strong evidence against semantic theories; or its significance should be considerably downplayed.
Cyclic adenosine 5′‐diphosphoribose (cADPR) cyclic guanosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate positively function in Ca2+ elevation in methyl jasmonate‐induced stomatal closure, cADPR is required for methyl jasmonate‐induced ROS accumulation NO production in guard cells
Authors: Hossain M. A. , Ye W. , Munemasa S. , Nakamura Y. , Mori I. C. , Murata Y.
Published: May 2014

Methyl jasmonate (MeJA) signalling shares several signal components with abscisic acid (ABA) signalling in guard cells. Cyclic adenosine 5′‐diphosphoribose (cADPR) and cyclic guanosine 3′,5′‐monophosphate (cGMP) are second messengers in ABA‐induced stomatal closure. In order to clarify involvement of cADPR and cGMP in MeJA‐induced stomatal closure in Arabidopsis thaliana (Col‐0), we investigated effects of an inhibitor of cADPR synthesis, nicotinamide (NA), and an inhibitor of cGMP synthesis, LY83583 (LY, 6‐anilino‐5,8‐quinolinedione), on MeJA‐induced stomatal closure. Treatment with NA and LY inhibited MeJA‐induced stomatal closure. NA inhibited MeJA‐induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) accumulation and nitric oxide (NO) production in guard cells. NA and LY suppressed transient elevations elicited by MeJA in cytosolic free Ca2+ concentration ([Ca2+]cyt) in guard cells. These results suggest that cADPR and cGMP positively function in [Ca2+]cyt elevation in MeJA‐induced stomatal closure, are signalling components shared with ABA‐induced stomatal closure in Arabidopsis, and that cADPR is required for MeJA‐induced ROS accumulation and NO production in Arabidopsis guard cells.
Abdominal Collateral Vein as an Unconventional Vascular Access for Hemodialysis in Patient with Central Vein Occlusion
Authors: Stróżecki Paweł , Flisiński Mariusz , Serafin Zbigniew , Wiechecka‐Korenkiewicz Joanna , Manitius Jacek
Published: May 2014

A 65‐year‐old female patient with chronic kidney disease stage 5 and a history of spleen neoplasm with dissemination within peritoneum is presented. During 5 years of hemodialysis therapy, bilateral occlusion of brachiocephalic and iliac vein developed as a consequence of vein catheterization. An attempt to cannulate inferior vena cava was unsuccessful. A cannulation of dilated collateral abdominal veins with dialysis needles allowed to perform several hemodialysis sessions in the patient.
Exceptional silica speleothems in a volcanic cave: A unique example of silicification and sub‐aquatic opaline stromatolite formation (Terceira, Azores)
Authors: Daza Brunet Raquel , Bustillo Revuelta María Ángeles
Published: May 2014

Silica stromatolites occur in a number of modern hydrothermal environments, but their formation in caves is very rare. The silica stromatolitic speleothems of the Branca Opala cave (Terceira Island, Azores), however, provide an excellent opportunity for their study. These formations may be analogous to ancient silica stromatolites seen around the world. Petrographic, mineralogical and geochemical analyses were undertaken on the silica speleothems of the above cave, and on the silica‐tufa deposits outside it, with the aim of understanding their genesis. The possible hydrothermal origin of their silica is discussed. X‐ray diffraction analyses showed opal‐A to be the sole silica phase. Negligible ordering of this opal‐A showed ageing to be insignificant, as expected for recent silica deposits. Most of the silica speleothems examined were definable as sub‐aquatic opaline stromatolites that are not currently growing. Optical microscopy clearly revealed a lower microlaminated, an intermediate and an upper microlaminated zone within the stromatolites. Stromatolite types (I, II and III) were classified with respect to their internal structure and distribution throughout the cave. Scanning electron microscopy showed silicified bacterial filaments within the stromatolites, the silicified plant remains and the silica‐tufa deposits. Bacteria therefore played a major role in the precipitation of the opal‐A. Plasma emission/mass spectrometry showed major, minor and rare earth elements to be present in only small quantities. The rare earth elements were mainly hosted within volcanic grains. Rapid silica precipitation from highly super‐saturated water would explain the intense silicification of the plant remains found inside and outside the cave. The opaline stromatolites, the silica‐tufa deposits and the above‐mentioned intense general silicification suggest a local hydrothermal source for the silica. Indeed, these deposits strongly resemble plant‐rich silica sinter associated with low‐temperature hot spring deposits that include bacterial filaments. However, no geochemical signals that might indicate a hydrothermal origin could be found.
Active Control of a Backward Facing Step Flow With Plasma Actuators
Authors: D'Adamo Juan , Sosa Roberto , Artana Guillermo
Published: May 2014

Active control over a backward facing step flow is studied experimentally by means of plasma based devices. The Reynolds number based on the step height h is 1520. An electrohydrodynamic actuator (EHD), dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) type, is flush mounted to the step wall. The DBD configuration adds momentum locally, normal to the separated shear layer, thus producing strong modifications downstream. The actuation is periodic and its frequency and amplitude are scrutinized to characterize the flow behavior under forcing. Measures of velocity fields for these flows are obtained from particle image velocimetry (PIV). As reported by previous works, the reattachment length shows an important reduction for an optimum forcing frequency. This value closely matches the shear layer flow natural frequency. On the other hand, the flow is less sensitive to the forcing amplitude though the analysis allows us to optimize the actuation in order to save power consumption.
Elastodynamic Interaction of Two Offset Interfacial Cracks in Bonded Dissimilar Media With a Functionally Graded Interlayer Under Antiplane Shear Impact
Authors: Jip Choi Hyung
Published: May 2014

The impact response of bonded media with a functionally graded interlayer weakened by a pair of two offset interfacial cracks is investigated under the condition of antiplane deformation. The material nonhomogeneity in the graded interlayer is represented in terms of power-law variations of shear modulus and mass density between the dissimilar, homogeneous half-planes. Laplace and Fourier integral transforms are employed to reduce the crack problem to solving a system of Cauchy-type singular integral equations in the Laplace domain. The crack-tip behavior in the physical domain is recovered through the inverse Laplace transform to evaluate the dynamic mode III stress intensity factors as a function of time. As a result, the transient interaction of the offset interfacial cracks spaced apart by the graded interlayer is illustrated. The peak values of the dynamic stress intensity factors are also presented versus offset crack distance, elaborating the effects of various material and geometric parameters of the bonded system on the overshoot characteristics of the transient behavior in the near-tip regions, owing to the impact-induced interaction of singular stress fields between the two cracks.
Relationship Between Time of Day Physical Exercise and the Reduced Risk of Coronary Artery Disease in a Chinese Population
Authors: Zhao Huan , Chu Xiao-Qiu , Lian Xiao-Qing , Wang Ze-Mu , Gao Wei , Wang Lian-Sheng
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

Exercise leads to a lower risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). However, whether time of day physical exercise has effects on CAD is still unclear. The present study is to investigate the relationship between time of day physical exercise and angiography determined CAD in a Chinese population.

Subjects:

A total of 1,129 consecutive participants who underwent coronary angiography for the first time were enrolled in our study. Participants were divided into non-CAD group and CAD group according to the result of coronary angiography. We used a predesigned questionnaire—the work-related activity, leisure-time activity, and physical exercise information were recorded in the form of self-reporting.

Results:

Doing physical exercise was associated with a reduced risk of CAD, after adjusting the established and potential confounders, with an adjusted odds ratio (OR) of 0.48 (95% CI, 0.35–0.67) compared with those who did not any physical exercise. Moreover, the risk of CAD could linearly decrease with increase of intensity, duration and frequency of exercise. Further stratification analysis revealed that the protective effects of exercise were more significant in the afternoon and evening group than in the morning and forenoon group. The adjusted ORs of doing physical exercise in morning, forenoon, afternoon, and evening groups were 0.53 (0.36–0.78), 0.51(0.27–0.96), 0.46(0.25–0.85), 0.43(0.28–0.66), respectively, compared with nonexerciser (p < .05).

Conclusions:

Doing physical exercise can decrease the risk of CAD, and exercising in the afternoon or evening may have more significant effects on the prevention of CAD than in other time of day.
A Systematic Review of Dietary Protein During Caloric Restriction in Resistance Trained Lean Athletes: A Case for Higher Intakes
Authors: Helms Eric R. , Zinn Caryn , Rowlands David S. , Brown Scott R.
Published: May 2014

Caloric restriction occurs when athletes attempt to reduce body fat or make weight. There is evidence that protein needs increase when athletes restrict calories or have low body fat.

Purpose:

The aims of this review were to evaluate the effects of dietary protein on body composition in energy-restricted resistance-trained athletes and to provide protein recommendations for these athletes.

Methods:

Database searches were performed from earliest record to July 2013 using the terms protein, and intake, or diet, and weight, or train, or restrict, or energy, or strength, and athlete. Studies (N = 6) needed to use adult (≥ 18 yrs), energy-restricted, resistance-trained (> 6 months) humans of lower body fat (males ≤ 23% and females ≤ 35%) performing resistance training. Protein intake, fat free mass (FFM) and body fat had to be reported.

Results:

Body fat percentage decreased (0.5–6.6%) in all study groups (N = 13) and FFM decreased (0.3–2.7kg) in nine of 13. Six groups gained, did not lose, or lost nonsignificant amounts of FFM. Five out of these six groups were among the highest in body fat, lowest in caloric restriction, or underwent novel resistance training stimuli. However, the one group that was not high in body fat that underwent substantial caloric restriction, without novel training stimuli, consumed the highest protein intake out of all the groups in this review (2.5–2.6g/kg).

Conclusions:

Protein needs for energy-restricted resistance-trained athletes are likely 2.3–3.1g/kg of FFM scaled upwards with severity of caloric restriction and leanness.
Effect of Sodium Bicarbonate and Beta-Alanine on Repeated Sprints During Intermittent Exercise Performed in Hypoxia
Authors: Saunders Bryan , Sale Craig , Harris Roger C. , Sunderland Caroline
Published: May 2014

Purpose:

To investigate the separate and combined effects of sodium bicarbonate and beta-alanine supplementation on repeated sprints during simulated match play performed in hypoxia.

Methods:

Study A: 20 recreationally active participants performed two trials following acute supplementation with either sodium bicarbonate (0.3 g·kg−1BM) or placebo (maltodextrin). Study B: 16 recreationally active participants were supplemented with either a placebo or beta-alanine for 5 weeks (6.4 g·day−1 for 4 weeks, 3.2 g·day−1 for 1 week), and performed one trial before supplementation (with maltodextrin) and two following supplementation (with sodium bicarbonate and maltodextrin). Trials consisted of 3 sets of 5 × 6 s repeated sprints performed during a football specific intermittent treadmill protocol performed in hypoxia (15.5% O2). Mean (MPO) and peak (PPO) power output were recorded as the performance measures.

Results:

Study A: Overall MPO was lower with sodium bicarbonate than placebo (p = .02, 539.4 ± 84.5 vs. 554.0 ± 84.6 W), although there was no effect across sets (all p > .05). Study B: There was no effect of beta-alanine, or cosupplementation with sodium bicarbonate, on either parameter, although there was a trend toward higher MPO with sodium bicarbonate (p = .07).

Conclusions:

The effect of sodium bicarbonate on repeated sprints was equivocal, although there was no effect of beta-alanine or cosupplementation with sodium bicarbonate. Individual variation may have contributed to differences in results with sodium bicarbonate, although the lack of an effect with beta-alanine suggests this type of exercise may not be influenced by increased buffering capacity.
The Effects of Carbohydrate Loading 48 Hours Before a Simulated Squash Match
Authors: Raman Aaron , Macdermid Paul W. , Mündel Toby , Mann Michael , Stannard Stephen R.
Published: May 2014

The aim of this study was to ascertain whether a high carbohydrate diet in the days before movement patterns simulating a squash match would increase carbohydrate oxidation during the match, and alter physical performance. Nine New Zealand level squash players were recruited to complete a simulated squash match on two occasions: 1) following a 48-hr high carbohydrate (11.1g·kg−1); and 2) following a calorie-matched low carbohydrate (2.1 g·kg−1) diet. The interventions were assigned in a randomized, single-blind, cross-over design. The match simulation was designed to mimic a five-game match lasting approximately 1 hr. Performance was measured as time to complete each game. Expired respiratory gases and heart rate were continuously collected throughout the trial using a portable gas analysis system. Capillary blood glucose and lactate samples were obtained during a 90 s rest period between each game. Rating of perceived exertion was also recorded after each set. Respiratory exchange ratio was significantly higher during exercise following the high CHO diet (0.80 vs. 0.76) p < .001) and this was associated with significantly faster time to complete the games (2340 ± 189 s vs. 2416 ± 128 s, p = .036). Blood glucose and lactate concentrations were also significantly higher in the high carbohydrate condition (p = .038 and p = .021 respectively). These results suggest that ingestion of a diet high in carbohydrate (>10 g/kg body weight) preceding simulated competitive squash produces increased rates of carbohydrate oxidation and maintains higher blood glucose concentrations. These metabolic effects were associated with improved physical performance.
Dimerization Opens New Avenues into Ras Signaling Research
Authors: Santos Eugenio
Published: May 2014

The identification of Ras dimers may help elucidate mechanisms of normal and pathologic Ras signaling.
Science Signaling
Podcast: 6 May 2014
Authors: Yi Chunling , VanHook Annalisa M.
Published: May 2014

The transcription factor Yap is required for the progression of a type of KRAS-driven pancreatic cancer.
PTEN Pairs Off
Authors: Berndt Jason D.
Published: May 2014

PTEN with cancer-associated mutations dimerizes with and inhibits wild-type PTEN.
Giving Mitochondria a Boost
Authors: Gough Nancy R.
Published: May 2014

Cyclin B1 and its associated kinase Cdk1 localize at mitochondria and enhance mitochondrial function as cells divide.