bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Variations in the population structure and ecology ofMatteuccia struthiopteris
Authors: Grzybowski Mirosław , Kruk Marek 
Published: December 2014

AbstractThe aim of the study was to investigate variation in the structure of a population ofMatteuccia struthiopteris(L.) Tod. in N–E Poland depending on its location in a river valley and light availability under tree canopies. Ordination statistical methods and structural equation modeling were used to identify ecological relationships in the population. The analysis showed that optimum growth conditions ofM. struthiopterisdepend on the canopy cover. As the shading increased, the size of trophophyllous leaves and the production of sporophylls decreased. The relationship between the canopy cover and the optimum growth conditions was best expressed by rootstock diameter and, to a lesser extent, by the number and height of trophophylls. An indirect relationship between the number and height of sporophylls and the canopy cover, by rootstock size and trophophyll quantity, was also identified. This relationship may be caused by the predominance of vegetative forms of reproduction. Based on the correlations between the landscape position vs. rootstock diameter and trophophyll height, a difference in the habitat colonization potential ofM. struthiopteriscould be detected. Three spatial clusters ofM. struthiopterisin the river valley were identified: river bank, river terrace, river valley slopes. These relationships and the distribution of other herbaceous plant species occurring at the plots indicate that the distribution pattern ofM. struthiopterisin the study area is determined by diverse environmental conditions, however mainly by light conditions.
Adaptive defense of pests and switching predation can improve biological control by multiple natural enemies
Authors: Ikegawa Yusuke , Ezoe Hideo , Namba Toshiyuki 
Published: December 2014

AbstractOne of the most important questions in biological control is whether multiple natural enemies can provide greater suppression of agricultural pests than a single best enemy. Intraguild predation (IGP) among natural enemies has often been invoked to explain failure of biological control by multiple enemies, and classical theoretical studies on IGP have supported this view. However, empirical studies are inconclusive and have yielded both positive and negative results. We extend classical models by considering anti‐predator behavior of pests and diet switching of omnivorous natural enemies, and examine their effects on pest control. We assume that the pest can adaptively allocate effort toward the specific defense against each predator, and that the omnivorous natural enemy can consume disproportionately more of the relatively abundant prey (switching predation) by type III functional responses to prey items. The model predicts that adaptive defense augments pests but favors introduction of multiple natural enemies for controlling pests if IGP is weak. In contrast, switching predation does not make pest control by multiple natural enemies advantageous as in classical studies, in the absence of adaptive defense. However, switching predation reduces the necessity of defense by the pest against the omnivore and offsets the effect of adaptive defense. Thus, it makes the introduction of multiple natural enemies advantageous for pest control when the pest employs adaptive defense even if IGP is strong. These results suggest that types and combinations of behavior of prey and predators may greatly affect qualitative outcomes of biological control by multiple natural enemies.
Deletion of genes involved in glutamate metabolism to improve poly-gamma-glutamic acid production in B. amyloliquefaciens LL3
Authors: Zhang Wei , He Yulian , Gao Weixia , Feng Jun , Cao Mingfeng , Yang Chao , Song Cunjiang , Wang Shufang 
Published: December 2014

Abstract
Here, we attempted to elevate poly-gamma-glutamic acid (γ-PGA) production by modifying genes involved in glutamate metabolism in Bacillus amyloliquefaciens LL3. Products of rocR, rocG and gudB facilitate the conversion from glutamate to 2-oxoglutarate in Bacillus subtillis. The gene odhA is responsible for the synthesis of a component of the 2-oxoglutarate dehydrogenase complex that catalyzes the oxidative decarboxylation of 2-oxoglutarate to succinyl coenzyme A. In-frame deletions of these four genes were performed. In shake flask experiments the gudB/rocG double mutant presented enhanced production of γ-PGA, a 38 % increase compared with wild type. When fermented in a 5-L fermenter with pH control, the γ-PGA yield of the rocR mutant was increased to 5.83 g/L from 4.55 g/L for shake flask experiments. The gudB/rocG double mutant produced 5.68 g/L γ-PGA compared with that of 4.03 g/L for the wild type, a 40 % increase. Those results indicated the possibility of improving γ-PGA production by modifying glutamate metabolism, and identified potential genetic targets to improve γ-PGA production.
Isolation of a Series of Fatty Acid Components of Ongokea gore Seed (Isano) Oil and their Detailed Structural Analysis
Authors: Ntumba Joséphine K. , Collard Laurent , Taba Kalulu M. , Robiette Raphaël 
Published: December 2014

AbstractThe total oil production capacity of isano oil is estimated at about 10,000 tons annually. Previous studies of this oil revealed that it is rich in fatty acids including a conjugated diyne moiety. This makes isano oil an excellent candidate for sustainable applications development. However, only a few of its fatty acids have been isolated and identified so far. In this study, we have reinvestigated this oil by characterizing its physicochemical properties and isolating several of its fatty acids as ethyl esters for their detailed structural analysis and identification. Six ethyl esters of fatty acids constituting isanic oil were isolated by flash column chromatography and semipreparative HPLC. The detailed structural analysis of these fatty acid esters by infrared, high resolution, mass spectroscopy, and nuclear magnetic resonance (1‐D and 2‐D) allowed determining unequivocally their chemical structure. The main fatty acid component of the oil (35.7 %) was identified as isanic acid. Four minor acids were found to possess also two conjugated triple bonds, while the sixth fatty acid does not contain carbon–carbon triple bonds nor double bonds but possessed a cis epoxide function. Results obtained in this study are currently being used to explore potential applications of isano oil.
International Note: Awareness and context of cyber‐harassment among secondary school students in Oyo state, Nigeria
Authors: Olumide Adesola O. , Adams Patricia , Amodu Olukemi K. 
Published: December 2014

ABSTRACTWe determined the awareness and context of cyber‐harassment among secondary school students (653 survey respondents and 18 in‐depth interviewees) in Oyo state, Nigeria. Respondents' mean age was 14.2 ± 2.2 years and 53.9% were aware of cyber‐harassment occurring in their school or among their friends. Cyber‐harassment was often perpetrated via phone calls (62.5%), text messaging (36.9%), chat rooms (28.7%), through pictures or video clips sent via mobile phones (11.9%), emails (6.8%) or websites (5.9%). Cyber‐harassment behaviours mentioned were the use of abusive words (25.4%), saying mean things or making fun of the victim (13.9%), solicitations for relationships (7.9%) or sex (6.8%) and spreading rumours about the victim (6.8%). In‐depth interviewees recounted experiences of cyber‐harassment suffered by their friends. Many were relationship‐related, sexual solicitations and threats and corroborated quantitative findings. Respondents are aware of cyber‐harassment occurring among students in the study area. Comprehensive interventions to address the problem need to be instituted.
Diverse Glial Cell Line-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (GDNF) Support Between Mania and Schizophrenia: A Comparative Study in Four Major Psychiatric Disorders
Authors: Tunca Z. , Kıvırcık Akdede B. , Özerdem A. , Alkın T. , Polat S. , Ceylan D. , Bayın M. , Cengizçetin Kocuk N. , Şimşek S. , Resmi H. , Akan P. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractBackground:Brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and glial cell line-derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) have essential roles in synaptic plasticity which is involved in pathogenesis and treatment of psychiatric disorders. However, it is not clear whether they act simultaneously during illness states in major psychiatric disorders.Methods:BDNF and GDNF serum levels were measured concomitantly by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method in 171 patients diagnosed with schizophrenia (n= 33), bipolar disorder-manic episode (n= 39), bipolar/unipolar depression (n= 64, 24/40) and obsessive-compulsive disorder (n= 35) according to DSM-IV, and 78 healthy volunteers. SCID-I and SCID non-patient version were used for clinical evaluation of the patients and healthy volunteers, respectively. Correlations between the two trophic factor levels, and illness severity scores, duration of illness and medication dosages were studied across different illnesses.Results:While patients had equally lower BDNF levels in all diagnoses, GDNF levels were significantly higher in mania and lower in schizophrenia compared to healthy controls. BDNF levels were negatively correlated to illness severity scores in affective episodes (mania and depression). Longer duration of illness (> 5 years) had an impact on lower GDNF levels in schizophrenia. BDNF levels and antipsychotic drug dosages in schizophrenia, and GDNF levels and antidepressant drug dosages in obsessive-compulsive disorder were positively correlated.Conclusion:Our data confirmed the evidence of equally deficient neuronal support by BDNF in all major psychiatric illnesses, but suggested a diverse glial functioning between schizophrenia and mania.
Mode of delivery and outcomes by birth weight among spontaneous and induced singleton cephalic nulliparous labors
Authors: Walsh Jennifer M. , Hehir Mark P. , Robson Michael S. , Mahony Rhona M. 
Published: December 2014

AbstractObjectiveTo assess the effect of birth weight on mode of delivery among nulliparous women in a setting with no policy of elective induction for suspected macrosomia.MethodsIn an observational study, data were assessed from nulliparous women with a single cephalic pregnancy of at least 37 weeks in spontaneous (Robson group 1) and induced (Robson group 2a) labor attending a hospital in Dublin, Ireland, between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2009. The primary outcome measure was mode of delivery.ResultsA total of 7528 nulliparous labors were included (4989 in group 1 and 2539 in group 2a). The cesarean section rate was 15.1% overall (n = 1139), with 411 (8.2%) in group 1, and 728 (28.7%) in group 2a. Cesarean delivery rates rose with increasing birth weight in group 1, from 119 (6.3%) of 1886 infants weighing 3000–3499 g and 160 (8.5%) of 1892 weighing 3500–3999 g, to 19 (26.8%) of 71 weighing 4500–4999 g. Rates of cesarean delivery were significantly higher in induced labor (group 2a) for each birth‐weight category, ranging from 202 (25.9%) of 781 weighing 3000–3499 g and 243 (27.0%) of 899 weighing 3500–3999 g, to 38 (48.1%) of 79 weighing 4500–4999 g (P < 0.01 for all).ConclusionIn a setting with standardized management of labor, birth weight remains a significant determinant of mode of delivery.
Gene expression profiling of lobular carcinoma in situ reveals candidate precursor genes for invasion
Authors: Andrade Victor P. , Morrogh Mary , Qin Li-Xuan , Olvera Narciso , Giri Dilip , Muhsen Shirin , Sakr Rita A. , Schizas Michail , Ng Charlotte K.Y. , Arroyo Crispinita D. , Brogi Edi , Viale Agnes , Morrow Monica , Reis-Filho Jorge S. , King Tari A. 
Published: December 2014

PurposeLobular carcinoma in situ (LCIS) is both a risk indicator and non‐obligate precursor of invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC). We sought to characterize the transcriptomic features of LCIS and ILC, with a focus on the identification of intrinsic molecular subtypes of LCIS and the changes involved in the progression from normal breast epithelium to LCIS and ILC.MethodsFresh‐frozen classic LCIS, classic ILC, and normal breast epithelium (N) from women undergoing prophylactic or therapeutic mastectomy were prospectively collected, laser‐capture microdissected, and subjected to gene expression profiling using Affymetrix HG‐U133A 2.0 microarrays.ResultsUnsupervised hierarchical clustering of 40 LCIS samples identified 2 clusters of LCIS distinguished by 6431 probe sets (p < 0.001). Genes identifying the clusters included proliferation genes and other genes related to cancer canonical pathways such as TGF beta signaling, p53 signaling, actin cytoskeleton, apoptosis and Wnt‐Signaling pathway. A supervised analysis to identify differentially expressed genes (p < 0.001) between normal epithelium, LCIS, and ILC, using 23 patient‐matched triplets of N, LCIS, and ILC, identified 169 candidate precursor genes, which likely play a role in LCIS progression, including PIK3R1, GOLM1, and GPR137B. These potential precursor genes map significantly more frequently to 1q and 16q, regions frequently targeted by gene copy number alterations in LCIS and ILC.ConclusionHere we demonstrate that classic LCIS is a heterogeneous disease at the transcriptomic level and identify potential precursor genes in lobular carcinogenesis. Understanding the molecular heterogeneity of LCIS and the potential role of these potential precursor genes may help personalize the therapy of patients with LCIS.
Feasibility of a Cost‐Effective, Video Analysis Software–Based Mobility Protocol for Objective Spine Kinematics and Gait Metrics: A Proof of Concept Study
Authors: Paul Justin C. , Petrizzo Anthony , Rizzo John‐Ross , Bianco Kristina , Maier Stephen , Errico Thomas J. , Lafage Virginie 
Published: December 2014

AbstractThe purpose of this study was to investigate the potential of a high‐throughput, easily implemented, cost‐effective, video analysis software–based mobility protocol to quantify spine kinematics. This prospective cohort study of clinical biomechanics implemented 2‐dimensional (2D) image processing at a tertiary‐care academic institution. Ten healthy, able‐bodied volunteers were recruited for 2D videography of gait and functional motion. The reliability of a 2D video analysis software program for gait and range of motion metrics was evaluated over 2 independent experimental sessions, assessing for inter‐trial, inter‐session, and inter‐rater reliability. Healthy volunteers were evaluated for simple forward and side bending, rotation, treadmill stride length, and more complex seated‐to‐standing tasks. Based on established intraclass correlation coefficients, results indicated that reliability was considered good to excellent for simple forward and side bending, rotation, stride length, and more complex sit‐to‐standing tasks. In conclusion, a cost‐effective, 2D, video analysis software–based mobility protocol represents a feasible and clinically useful approach for objective spine kinematics and gait metrics. As the complication rate of operative management in the setting of spinal deformity is weighed against functional performance and quality of life measures, an objective analysis tool in combination with an appropriate protocol will aid in clinical assessments and lead to an increased evidence base for management options and decision algorithms.
Exacerbation of acute kidney injury by bone marrow stromal cells from rats with persistent renin–angiotensin system activation
Authors: Kankuri Esko , Mervaala Elina E. , Storvik Markus , Ahola Aija M.J. , Levijoki Jouko , Müller Dominik N. , Finckenberg Piet , Mervaala Eero M. 
Published: December 2014

Hypertension and persistent activation of the renin–angiotensin system (RAS) are predisposing factors for the development of acute kidney injury (AKI). Although bone-marrow-derived stromal cells (BMSCs) have shown therapeutic promise in treatment of AKI, the impact of pathological RAS on BMSC functionality has remained unresolved. RAS and its local components in the bone marrow are involved in several key steps of cell maturation processes. This may also render the BMSC population vulnerable to alterations even in the early phases of RAS pathology. We isolated transgenic BMSCs (TG-BMSCs) from young end-organ-disease-free rats with increased RAS activation [human angiotensinogen/renin double transgenic rats (dTGRs)] that eventually develop hypertension and die of end-organ damage and kidney failure at 8 weeks of age. Control cells (SD-BMSCs) were isolated from wild-type Sprague–Dawley rats. Cell phenotype, mitochondrial reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and respiration were assessed, and gene expression profiling was carried out using microarrays. Cells’ therapeutic efficacy was evaluated in a rat model of acute ischaemia/reperfusion-induced AKI. Serum urea and creatinine were measured at 24 h and 48 h. Acute tubular damage was scored and immunohistochemistry was used for evaluation for markers of inflammation [monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP-1), ED-1], and kidney injury [kidney injury molecule-1 (KIM-1), neutrophil gelatinase-associated lipocalin (NGAL)]. TG-BMSCs showed distinct mitochondrial morphology, decreased cell respiration and increased production of ROS. Gene expression profiling revealed a pronounced pro-inflammatory phenotype. In contrast with the therapeutic effect of SD-BMSCs, administration of TG-BMSCs in the AKI model resulted in exacerbation of kidney injury and high mortality. Our results demonstrate that early persistent RAS activation can dramatically compromise therapeutic potential of BMSCs by causing a shift into a pro-inflammatory phenotype with mitochondrial dysfunction.
Differential effects of chlorinated and oxidized phospholipids in vascular tissue: implications for neointima formation
Authors: Greig Fiona H. , Hutchison Lisa , Spickett Corinne M. , Kennedy Simon 
Published: December 2014

The presence of inflammatory cells and MPO (myeloperoxidase) in the arterial wall after vascular injury could increase neointima formation by modification of phospholipids. The present study investigates how these phospholipids, in particular oxidized and chlorinated species, are altered within injured vessels and how they affect VSMC (vascular smooth muscle cell) remodelling processes. Vascular injury was induced in C57BL/6 mice and high fat-fed ApoE−/− (apolipoprotein E) mice by wire denudation and ligation of the left carotid artery (LCA). Neointimal and medial composition was assessed using immunohistochemistry and ESI–MS. Primary rabbit aortic SMCs (smooth muscle cells) were utilized to examine the effects of modified lipids on VSMC proliferation, viability and migration at a cellular level. Neointimal area, measured as intima-to-media ratio, was significantly larger in wire-injured ApoE−/− mice (3.62±0.49 compared with 0.83±0.25 in C57BL/6 mice, n=3) and there was increased oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) infiltration and elevated plasma MPO levels. Relative increases in lysophosphatidylcholines and unsaturated phosphatidylcholines (PCs) were also observed in wire-injured ApoE−/− carotid arteries. Chlorinated lipids had no effect on VSMC proliferation, viability or migration whereas chronic incubation with oxidized phospholipids stimulated proliferation in the presence of fetal calf serum [154.8±14.2% of viable cells at 1 μM PGPC (1-palmitoyl-2-glutaroyl-sn-glycero-3-phosphocholine) compared with control, n=6]. In conclusion, ApoE−/− mice with an inflammatory phenotype develop more neointima in wire-injured arteries and accumulation of oxidized lipids in the vessel wall may propagate this effect.
Adaptor-mediated Lon proteolysis restrictsBacillus subtilishyperflagellation
Authors: Mukherjee Sampriti , Bree Anna C. , Liu Jing , Patrick Joyce E. , Chien Peter , Kearns Daniel B. 
Published: December 2014

SignificanceBacteria are thought to change physiology when in contact with a solid surface, but the mechanism of surface-contact signal transduction and the output physiological changes are often poorly understood. Here, we show thatBacillus subtiliscontrols flagellar density by regulatory proteolysis of the master flagellar activator protein SwrA. We further show that the broadly conserved AAA+ protease LonA degrades SwrA only in the presence of swarming motility inhibitor A, the first substrate-specific adaptor protein reported for the Lon family. We propose that surface contact inhibits proteolytic turnover such that SwrA accumulates and the cells synthesize flagella in excess of a critical threshold required for swarming migration.
Taxonomy.
Authors: Berg R. G. van den , Groendijk-Wilders N. 
Published: December 2014

Abstract

The taxonomy of "the potato", Solanum section Petota, encompassing both the wild relatives of the cultivated potato and the cultigen itself, has a long, convoluted history. This chapter briefly summarizes this history, describes the current state of affairs that is influenced heavily by the use of molecular data, and looks at future developments, especially the impact of genomic data. It first deals with what is known about the wild potatoes, and then looks at the various ways the potato crop has been classified. Finally, as more and more genomic data become available, it discusses possible ways the taxonomy of the potato can benefit from these.
Potato utilization and markets.
Authors: Bond J. K. 
Published: December 2014

Abstract

This chapter discusses the production in emerging and developing countries, regional cultivation, world consumption, global trade, fresh and processed products, characteristics, popular domestic and international varieties, trends in consumption and marketing of potato. The past 20 years have brought dramatic changes to the global potato marketplace. Enhanced cultivation techniques and improved access to disease-free seed stock have assisted in increasing production in emerging and developing countries. In particular, China has become the worldwide leader in potato production and is making strides towards becoming a front-runner in the export market. As production has surged in lower income countries, developed countries have experienced some stagnation in fresh market demand. Fried products have maintained their popularity in advanced economies and are finding a receptive audience among consumers in transitional countries. New products, preparations, and varieties continue to demonstrate the diversity and usefulness of the humble potato.
Plant growth and development.
Authors: Wohleb C. H. , Knowles N. R. , Pavek M. J. 
Published: December 2014

Abstract

This chapter focuses on the growth and development of S. tuberosum under commercial production and describes how potato plant morphology changes as plants grow and develop. To simplify the discussion on potato development, the chapter is separated into a logical series of growth and developmental stages including propagation, seed tuber dormancy and physiological age, tuber anatomy and sprout development, tuber initiation, canopy development, tuber bulking, and plant and tuber maturation.
Plant-water relations and irrigation management of potato.
Authors: Levy D. , Coleman W. K. 
Published: December 2014

Abstract

This chapter examines how the potato plant responds to different moisture levels, and outlines advances in dealing with drought and water management. Irrigation management systems are constantly improving and provide the farmer with tools for increased efficiency of water use. Implementation of efficient irrigation systems such as micro-irrigation and drip irrigation have been shown to conserve water. Soil moisture sensors are useful monitors of soil water status and are used to control irrigation schedules and quantities. Current VRI (variable rates of irrigation) irrigation regimes are based on GPS data of uneven field conditions, topography, microclimate, soil gradients, etc. Precision irrigation is expected to develop further and to provide a reliable representation of the spatial water status of crops, including the potato crop.