bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Wind matters: Asymmetric distribution of aphids on host plants can be explained by stems functioning as windbreaks
Authors: Devegili Andrés M. , Alma Andrea Marina , Lescano Maria Natalia , Farji‐Brener Alejandro G. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractUnderstanding how abiotic factors influence organisms at present is the necessary first step to predict how species assemblages could be affected by climate change in the future. We examined how wind, a poorly studied abiotic factor, affects the distribution and abundance of two aphid species, Uroleucon aeneum and Brachycaudus cardui (hereafter black and green aphids, respectively), that live on the thistle Carduus thoermeri (Asteraceae) in a windy region of Patagonia, Argentina. First, considering the prevailing wind direction, we described the distribution of both aphid species around plant stems. Then, we performed a bi‐factorial experiment in which we cut stems with aphids to manipulate their position respect to wind (exposed/unexposed) and to control wind incidence (protected/unprotected). Finally, using the species most affected by wind, we examined possible mechanisms through which wind could affect aphids. Both aphid species were less abundant on the side of the stem exposed to wind respect to the unexposed side; and this pattern was stronger for the black aphid. When black aphids were positioned exposed to wind and without protection, their proportion changed towards the unexposed side of the stem; while green aphids showed a weaker response to wind. Laboratory experiments demonstrated that wind triggered both the detachment of black aphids and their movement towards the unexposed side of the stem. Our results showed that wind can explain the asymmetric distribution of aphids around plants and that stems can act as windbreaks. In a less windy future scenario, aphids could expand their foraging area, reaching higher infestation rates, which could affect their role in structuring ant assemblages and their status as crop pests. This work highlights the importance of testing the effects of less studied abiotic factors to fully understand how climate change could impact on the abundance and distribution of animals in the future.
Histomorphometrical and stereological study of the oesophagus in the adult male Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus)
Authors: Goodarzi Nader , Akbari Bazm Mohsen , Naseri Leila , Hosseinipour Morteza 
Published: July 2019

AbstractThe Persian squirrel (Sciurus anomalus) is habitat in the Middle East countries and feed on pine acorns and other seeds. The present study was carried out to investigate the histological and volumetric features of the oesophagus in Persian squirrels. Five adult male Persian squirrels were included in the study. The cervical, thoracic and abdominal oesophagus of all subjects were processed routinely and sectioned in a serial manner. Then, the total volume of the oesophagus and its different layers were estimated using Cavalieri's principle. Histological assessment revealed a non‐keratinized stratified squamous epithelium lining the mucosa. No glands were seen in the lamina propria and submucosa. Lamina muscularis was present as a distinct layer of smooth muscle cells separating the lamina propria from the tunica submucosa. The tunica muscularis consisted of two distinct layers of striated muscle fibres: inner circular and outer longitudinal that was intermingled with few scattered smooth muscle fibres especially in the abdominal region. The thoracic region contained more amount of the lamina muscularis and tunica muscularis in comparison to the cervical or abdominal regions. The obtained results revealed that the histological structure of the Persian squirrel oesophagus has differences and similarities with other rodents and even with other species of squirrel. These findings would be useful to improve the knowledge in the areas of histological structure of the rodent digestive system.
Discovery of novel Mnk inhibitors using mutation‐based induced‐fit virtual high‐throughput screening
Authors: Mishra Rama K. , Clutter Matthew R. , Blyth Gavin T. , Kosciuczuk Ewa M. , Blackburn Amy Z. , Beauchamp Elspeth M. , Schiltz Gary E. , Platanias Leonidas C. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMnk kinases (Mnk1 and 2) are downstream effectors of Map kinase pathways and regulate phosphorylation of eukaryotic initiation factor 4E. Engagement of the Mnk pathway is critical in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) leukemogenesis and Mnk inhibitors have potent antileukemic properties in vitro and in vivo, suggesting that targeting Mnk kinases may provide a novel approach for treating AML. Here, we report the development and application of a mutation‐based induced‐fit in silico screen to identify novel Mnk inhibitors. The Mnk1 structure was modeled by temporarily mutating an amino acid that obstructs the ATP‐binding site in the Mnk1 crystal structure while carrying out docking simulations of known inhibitors. The hit compounds display activity in Mnk biochemical and cellular assays, including acute myeloid leukemia progenitors. This approach will enable further rational structure‐based drug design of new Mnk inhibitors and potentially novel ways of therapeutically targeting this kinase.
Development of bisubstrate analog inhibitors of aspartate N‐acetyltransferase, a critical brain enzyme
Authors: Mutthamsetty Vinay , Dahal Gopal P. , Wang Qinzhe , Viola Ronald E. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractCanavan disease (CD) is a fatal leukodystrophy caused by mutations in the aspA gene coding for the enzyme aspartoacylase. Insufficient catalytic activity by this enzyme leads to the accumulation of its substrate, N‐acetyl‐l‐aspartate (NAA), and diminished production of acetate in brain oligodendrocytes of patients with CD. There is growing evidence that this accumulation of NAA is the cause of many of the developmental defects observed in these patients. NAA is produced in the brain by a transacetylation reaction catalyzed by aspartate N‐acetyltransferase (ANAT), and this membrane‐associated enzyme has recently been purified as a soluble maltose binding protein fusion. Designing selective inhibitors against ANAT has the potential to slow the accumulation of NAA and moderate these developmental defects, and this is the goal of this project. Several bisubstrate analog inhibitors of ANAT have been synthesized that have achieved nanomolar level binding affinities against this enzyme. Truncated versions and fragments of these bisubstrate analog inhibitors have identified the essential structural elements needed for high binding affinity. More drug‐like versions of these inhibitors can now be built, based on these essential core structures.
Efficacy and safety of high‐dose vs low‐dose leucovorin in patients with colorectal cancer: systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Hsu C.‐Y. , Chen C.‐Y. , Lin Y.‐M. , Tam K.‐W. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractAimThe clinical benefits of a combination of leucovorin and fluorouracil have been established in the treatment of colorectal cancer. Due to a leucovorin shortage in 2008, many institutions revised their protocols to reduce the dose of leucovorin. After the shortage was resolved, some hospitals still maintained their modified protocols. Thus, we conducted a systematic review to evaluate the efficacy and safety of low‐ vs high‐dose leucovorin in the treatment of colorectal cancer.MethodThe PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases were searched for studies published before May 2019. The meta‐analysis was performed to estimate the pooled effect sizes by using a random effect model. The primary outcomes were median survival time and tumour response rate. Secondary outcomes were haematological and nonhaematological toxicities.ResultsEight randomized controlled trials and four retrospective studies were reviewed. The pooled median survival time was similar between the two dose levels (standard mean difference −0.06, 95% CI −0.19 to 0.08). The pooled tumour response rate was comparatively higher in the high‐dose leucovorin regimen (OR 0.81; 95% CI 0.55–1.18). No statistically significant difference was found between the haematological and nonhaematological toxicities of the two groups. However, there were fewer diarrhoea events in the low‐dose leucovorin regimen.ConclusionLow‐dose leucovorin regimens seemed feasible approaches for colorectal cancer treatment when the shortage happened, because both regimens manifested comparable outcomes in survival time and tumour response rate.
Use of remote monitoring with continuous glucose monitoring in young children with Type 1 diabetes: the parents’ perspective
Authors: Burckhardt M.‐A. , Fried L. , Bebbington K. , Hancock M. , Nicholas J. A. , Roberts A. , Abraham M. B. , Davis E. A. , Jones T. W. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractAimRemote monitoring with continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) in children with Type 1 diabetes mellitus has recently become available, but little is known about caregivers’ experiences of its use, particularly in younger children. The aim of this study was to explore parents’ everyday experiences of using this technology.MethodsThe parents of children with Type 1 diabetes diagnosed for > 1 year, aged 2–12 years were invited to participate in a semi‐structured interview. Interviews were the second phase of a randomized cross‐over study using standard insulin therapy with or without CGM and remote monitoring for two 3‐month periods. Open‐ended questions were used to explore parents’ real‐life experiences of the remote monitoring and CGM system. Interviews were analysed using thematic analysis.ResultsFive themes related to remote monitoring emerged: (i) impact on sleep quality for the parents, (ii) peace of mind, (iii) impact on anxiety, (iv) freedom and confidence for the parents and children, and (v) impact on relationships. Furthermore, parents reported on themes related to CGM in general, such as better understanding of how to manage and control their child's diabetes and experiences related to physical or technical aspects.ConclusionOverall, parents of primary school children reported that using remote monitoring and CGM was a mostly beneficial experience. However, negative aspects within the themes were also reported. These findings will help to provide a structure to discuss parent and child expectations and provide targeted education at the start of using remote monitoring and CGM.
The economics of China's engagement with Africa: What is the empirical evidence?
Authors: Martuscelli Antonio 
Published: July 2019

AbstractMotivationIn the last decade, economic and political ties between China and African countries grew fast, fuelling a heated debate about the implications for the latter and for the global system of China's engagement in Africa.PurposeThe article reviews the existing evidence on the nature, causes and impact of China's economic engagement in Africa.Approach and methodsThe review focuses mainly on the economic literature with a quantitative focus.FindingsChina's reasons to engage with Africa are not so different from those of western countries: securing natural resources and seeking new export markets. However, there is evidence that China is less interested in the quality of governance and institutions of its African partners. The literature tends to agree on the positive growth effects for African countries of Chinese interest, but also suggests that their already thin manufacturing sector could be adversely affected by Chinese competition and that the increasing natural resource specialization of African countries might hamper diversification, structural transformation and future growth prospects. At the same time Chinese investments are building valuable infrastructure and linkages with local firms, which are growing although still very limited. The emergent trend of increasing presence of small and medium Chinese firms in Africa is promising in this respect.Policy implicationsIncreased Chinese interactions with African countries present opportunities as well as threats for African countries. A key aspect will be the capacity of Chinese presence in Africa to spread to the local economy through spillover effects and linkages to the domestic economy. Both sides should introduce policies aimed at strengthening these linkages and spillovers.
Mannan‐binding lectin promotes keratinocyte to produce CXCL1 and enhances neutrophil infiltration at the early stages of psoriasis
Authors: Zeng Jiaqi , Chen Xi , Lei Ke , Wang Di , Lin Lin , Wang Yajie , Li Yao , Liu Yunzhi , Zhang Liyun , Zuo Daming , Sun Ledong 
Published: July 2019

AbstractPsoriasis is a chronic, relapsing inflammatory skin disorder. Numerous experimental evidence and therapeutic evidence have shown that the innate immune response is critical for the pathogenesis and development of psoriasis. Mannan‐binding lectin (MBL), a prototypic pattern recognition molecule of the innate immune system, plays an essential role in the host defense against certain infections and also appears to be a major regulator of inflammation. In this study, we investigated the function of MBL on the course of experimental murine imiquimod (IMQ)‐induced psoriasis. Our data showed that MBL‐deficient (MBL−/−) mice exhibited attenuated skin damage characterized by greatly decreased erythema compared with wild‐type control mice during the early stages of IMQ‐induced psoriasis‐like skin inflammation. The reduced skin inflammation in MBL−/− mice was associated with the decreased infiltration of neutrophils. Furthermore, we have determined that MBL deficiency limited the chemokine CXCL1 production from skin keratinocytes upon IMQ stimulation, which might be responsible for the impaired skin recruitment of neutrophils. Additionally, we have provided the data that MBL protein promotes the IMQ‐induced expression of CXCL1 and activation of MAPK/NF‐κB signalling pathway in human keratinocyte HaCaT cells in vitro. In summary, our study revealed an unexpected role of MBL on keratinocyte function in skin, thus offering a new insight into the pathogenic mechanisms of psoriasis.
Covariations between plant functional traits emerge from constraining parameterization of a terrestrial biosphere model
Authors: Peaucelle Marc , Bacour Cédric , Ciais Philippe , Vuichard Nicolas , Kuppel Sylvain , Peñuelas Josep , Belelli Marchesini Luca , Blanken Peter D. , Buchmann Nina , Chen Jiquan , Delpierre Nicolas , Desai Ankur R. , Dufrene Eric , Gianelle Damiano , Gimeno‐Colera Cristina , Gruening Carsten , Helfter Carole , Hörtnagl Lukas , Ibrom Andreas , Joffre Richard , Kato Tomomichi , Kolb Thomas E. , Law Beverly , Lindroth Anders , Mammarella Ivan , Merbold Lutz , Minerbi Stefano , Montagnani Leonardo , Šigut Ladislav , Sutton Mark , Varlagin Andrej , Vesala Timo , Wohlfahrt Georg , Wolf Sebastian , Yakir Dan , Viovy Nicolas 
Published: July 2019

AbstractAimThe mechanisms of plant trait adaptation and acclimation are still poorly understood and, consequently, lack a consistent representation in terrestrial biosphere models (TBMs). Despite the increasing availability of geo‐referenced trait observations, current databases are still insufficient to cover all vegetation types and environmental conditions. In parallel, the growing number of continuous eddy‐covariance observations of energy and CO2 fluxes has enabled modellers to optimize TBMs with these data. Past attempts to optimize TBM parameters mostly focused on model performance, overlooking the ecological properties of ecosystems. The aim of this study was to assess the ecological consistency of optimized trait‐related parameters while improving the model performances for gross primary productivity (GPP) at sites.LocationWorldwide.Time period1992–2012.Major taxa studiedTrees and C3 grasses.MethodsWe optimized parameters of the ORCHIDEE model against 371 site‐years of GPP estimates from the FLUXNET network, and we looked at global covariation among parameters and with climate.ResultsThe optimized parameter values were shown to be consistent with leaf‐scale traits, in particular, with well‐known trade‐offs observed at the leaf level, echoing the leaf economic spectrum theory. Results showed a marked sensitivity of trait‐related parameters to local bioclimatic variables and reproduced the observed relationships between traits and climate.Main conclusionsOur approach validates some biological processes implemented in the model and enables us to study ecological properties of vegetation at the canopy level, in addition to some traits that are difficult to observe experimentally. This study stresses the need for: (a) implementing explicit trade‐offs and acclimation processes in TBMs; (b) improving the representation of processes to avoid model‐specific parameterization; and (c) performing systematic measurements of traits at FLUXNET sites in order to gather information on plant ecophysiology and plant diversity, together with micro‐meteorological conditions.
Taiwanese bed and breakfast business performance: A geographic region perspective
Authors: Chiu Chia‐Ning 
Published: July 2019

AbstractTaiwan has prioritized bed and breakfast (B&B) business performance improvement in its tourism policies because B&Bs are a sustainable business model that can boost local economy through rural tourism. In order to identify the factors that can improve business performance, this research uses directional distance function and metafrontier approach to evaluate the technical efficiency of 18 cities and counties with B&Bs in Taiwan from 2011 to 2016. Results are divided into four geographic regions: Northern, Central, Southern, and Eastern Taiwan; technology gap ratios are computed to determine the degree of technical gaps for each region in order to provide information to potential B&B owners when selecting their accommodation location or region, to aid B&B managers in tailoring their business models and marketing strategies to maximize total revenues or minimize inputs, and to facilitate tourism, small businesses, and local economy with the support of the Taiwanese government.
Faces Anxiety Scale as a screening measure of preoperative anxiety: Validation and diagnostic accuracy study
Authors: Turzáková Jana , Sollár Tomáš , Solgajová Andrea 
Published: July 2019

AbstractAimThe aim of the study was to examine validity and diagnostic accuracy of the single‐item Faces Anxiety Scale for the purposes of preoperative anxiety screening.BackgroundAnxiety is common in most patients expecting surgery interfering with patients' recovery. Valid and reliable measures for situations with limited time for assessment are needed.DesignA descriptive cross‐sectional design was used to collect the data from both self‐report and rating instruments.MethodsWe enrolled 90 consecutive patients admitted for surgery in a university‐affiliated hospital from January 2013 to June 2013. Patients were administered the anxiety state subscale of the Spielberger State‐Trait Anxiety Inventory and the anxiety subscale of the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, and they were presented the Faces Anxiety Scale. At the same time, patients' anxiety was rated by a nurse.ResultsThe correlations among scores of self‐report instruments, rating scale, and the Faces Anxiety Scale were high and statistically significant. Of the Faces Anxiety Scale cut‐off scores tested, the cut‐off score > 2 has an optimal combination of sensitivity and specificity.ConclusionThe Faces Anxiety Scale is valid and easy to administer. The scale is useful in settings where fast and precise screening is necessary.
Cucurbitacin B induces neurogenesis in PC12 cells and protects memory in APP/PS1 mice
Authors: Li Jing , Sun Kaiyue , Muroi Makoto , Gao Lijuan , Chang Young‐Tae , Osada Hiroyuki , Xiang Lan , Qi Jianhua 
Published: July 2019

AbstractCucurbitacin B (CuB) isolated from Cucumis melo by using a PC12 cell bioassay system exhibited significant nerve growth factor (NGF)‐mimic or NGF‐enhancing activity in PC12 and primary neuron cells. It was also demonstrated pro‐neurogenesis effects in ICR and APP/PS1 mice and improved memory deficit of APP/PS1 mice. Its possible mechanism includes significant induction of the phosphorylation of glucocorticoid receptor (GR), protein kinase C (PKC), phospholipase C (PLC) and inhibition of cofilin. ChemProteoBase profiling, binding assay and cellular thermal shift assay (CETSA) were used to determine the target protein. Results revealed that CuB could affect actin dynamics as an actin inhibitor but did not bind with GR. The protein level of cofilin in PC12 cells after treating 0.3 μM and different temperatures was significantly higher than that of control group. Other neurotrophic signalling pathways, such as TrkA/TrkB, were analysed with specific inhibitors and Western blot. The inhibitors of TrkA, PLC, PKC, Ras, Raf and ERK1/2 significantly decreased the percentage of PC12 cells with neurite outgrowth and shortened the length of neurite outgrowth induced by CuB. CuB significantly induced the phosphorylation of TrkA, ERK and CREB. The phosphorylation of these proteins was obviously decreased by their specific inhibitors. These results suggest that cofilin is a candidate target protein of CuB in PC12 cells and that the GR/PLC/PKC and TrkA/Ras/Raf/ERK signalling pathways play important roles in the neuroprotective effect of CuB.
Validation of the BIOCHIP test for the diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid, pemphigus vulgaris and pemphigus foliaceus
Authors: Yang A. , Xuan R. , Melbourne W. , Tran K. , Murrell D.F. 
Published: July 2019

AbstractBackgroundThe BIOCHIP is a novel multiplex indirect immunofluorescence technique used in the serological diagnosis of bullous pemphigoid and pemphigus. The BIOCHIP method combines the screening of autoantibodies and target antigen‐specific substrates in a single miniature incubation field.ObjectiveTo evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of the new immunofluorescence BIOCHIP multiplex tool in pemphigus and bullous pemphigoid.MethodsFor the validation of the BIOCHIP, sera from patients with BP (n = 38), PF (n = 8) and pemphigus vulgaris (PV) (n = 23) were used. In addition, sera from disease control patients (n = 63) and healthy volunteers (n = 39) were used. The multiplex BIOCHIP and direct immunofluorescence (DIF) were performed for all BP, PF and PV patients. Additional indirect immunofluorescence (IIF) was performed on patients with BP, and ELISA was performed on patients with pemphigus.ResultsThe BIOCHIP mosaic showed a sensitivity of 86.8% and specificity of 85% for BP180 or BP230 being positive in BP. It demonstrated a sensitivity of 75% and specificity of 97.7% for Dsg1 in PF. The BIOCHIP was found to have a sensitivity of 60.9% and specificity of 73.6% for Dsg3 in PV.ConclusionThe BIOCHIP mosaic‐based immunofluorescence test is potentially a simple, time and effort saving test that can aid in the diagnosis and screening of BP, PV and PF. However, there is potential for interpretation bias and a learning curve that needs to be taken into consideration.