bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Foliar habit, tolerance to defoliation and their link to carbon and nitrogen storage
Authors: Piper Frida I. , Fajardo Alex 
Published: June 2014

Summary

An innovative hypothesis to explain the higher carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) storage in woody tissues of winter deciduous species as compared to evergreen species is that these storages reflect an adaptation to tolerate herbivory. Support for this hypothesis has been little when manipulative defoliations were partial and/or applied in a single season. Given that repeated defoliations throughout a single season are common in temperate forests and tend to be more severe in deciduous than in evergreen species, we tested this hypothesis considering complete and recurrent defoliation in two sympatric Nothofagus species with contrasting foliar habit.

In the field, we applied three defoliation intensities for 3 years in naturally coexisting juvenile trees of Nothofagus betuloides (evergreen) and Nothofagus pumilio (deciduous). Defoliation intensities included complete defoliation (100%) twice during the growing season, partial defoliation (50%) twice during the whole experiment and no defoliation. We evaluated survival, regrowth and C‐ and N‐storage in the leaves, stems and roots of each tree.

Complete defoliation caused 100% mortality in N. betuloides after the first year and no mortality in N. pumilio after 3 years; it induced higher C reductions in N. pumilio roots, supported by greater C‐storage. Partial defoliation caused no interspecific differences in survival, though it produced a stronger decrease in C‐storage in N. betuloides than in N. pumilio. N concentrations in woody tissues were significantly higher in N. pumilio than in N. betuloides, and only in the former did they decrease with the defoliation intensity.

Synthesis. We found a potential functional link between leaf habit, defoliation tolerance and C‐ and N‐storage. The deciduous species tolerated complete and recurrent defoliations better than the evergreen species, which was associated with higher C‐ and N‐storage in stems and roots of the former. This link was not detected under partial defoliation. We suggest that the higher C‐ and N‐storage in the woody tissues of deciduous species as compared to evergreen species is an adaptation to tolerate complete and recurrent defoliations under which temperate winter deciduous species may have evolved.
Genomic comparison of chitinolytic enzyme systems from terrestrial and aquatic bacteria
Authors: Bai Yani , Eijsink Vincent G. H. , Kielak Anna M. , van Veen Johannes A. , de Boer Wietse 
Published: June 2014

SummaryChitin degradation ability is known for many aquatic and terrestrial bacterial species. However, differences in the composition of chitin resources between aquatic (mainly exoskeletons of crustaceans) and terrestrial (mainly fungal cell walls) habitats may have resulted in adaptation of chitinolytic enzyme systems to the prevalent resources. We screened publicly available terrestrial and aquatic chitinase‐containing bacterial genomes for possible differences in the composition of their chitinolytic enzyme systems. The results show significant differences between terrestrial and aquatic bacterial genomes in the modular composition of chitinases (i.e. presence of different types of carbohydrate binding modules). Terrestrial Actinobacteria appear to be best adapted to use a wide variety of chitin resources as they have the highest number of chitinase genes, the highest diversity of associated carbohydrate‐binding modules and the highest number of CBM33‐type lytic polysaccharide monooxygenases. Actinobacteria do also have the highest fraction of genomes containing β‐1, 3‐glucanases, enzymes that may reinforce the potential for degrading fungal cell walls. The fraction of bacterial chitinase‐containing genomes encoding polyketide synthases was much higher for terrestrial bacteria than for aquatic ones supporting the idea that the combined production of antibiotics and cell‐wall degrading chitinases can be an important strategy in antagonistic interactions with fungi.
Impact of metal pollution on fungal diversity and community structures
Authors: Op De Beeck Michiel , Lievens Bart , Busschaert Pieter , Rineau Francois , Smits Mark , Vangronsveld Jaco , Colpaert Jan V. 
Published: June 2014

SummaryThe impact of metal pollution on plant communities has been studied extensively in the past, but little is known about the effects of metal pollution on fungal communities that occur in metal‐polluted soils. Metal‐tolerant ecotypes of the ectomycorrhizal fungusSuillus luteusare frequently found in pioneer pine forests in the Campine region inBelgium on metal‐polluted soils. We hypothesized that metal pollution would play an important role in shaping below‐ground fungal communities that occur in these soils and thatSuillus luteuswould be a dominant player. To test these hypotheses, the fungal communities in a young pine plantation in soil polluted with zinc, and cadmium were studied using 454 amplicon pyrosequencing. Results show that zinc, cadmium and soil organic matter content were strongly correlated with the fungal community composition, but no effects on fungal diversity were observed. As hypothesized,S. luteuswas found to be a dominant member of the studied fungal communities. However, other dominant fungal species, such asSistotremasp.,Wilcoxina mikolaeandCadophora finlandicawere found as well. Their presence in metal‐polluted sites is discussed.
clpC operon regulates cell architecture and sporulation in Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Singh Lalit K. , Dhasmana Neha , Sajid Andaleeb , Kumar Prasun , Bhaduri Asani , Bharadwaj Mitasha , Gandotra Sheetal , Kalia Vipin C. , Das Taposh K. , Goel Ajay K. , Pomerantsev Andrei P. , Misra Richa , Gerth Ulf , Leppla Stephen H. , Singh Yogendra 
Published: June 2014

SummaryThe clpC operon is known to regulate several processes such as genetic competence, protein degradation and stress survival in bacteria. Here, we describe the role of clpC operon in Bacillus anthracis. We generated knockout strains of the clpC operon genes to investigate the impact of CtsR, McsA, McsB and ClpC deletion on essential processes of B. anthracis. We observed that growth, cell division, sporulation and germination were severely affected in mcsB and clpC deleted strains, while none of deletions affected toxin secretion. Growth defect in these strains was pronounced at elevated temperature. The growth pattern gets restored on complementation of mcsB and clpC in respective mutants. Electron microscopic examination revealed that mcsB and clpC deletion also causes defect in septum formation leading to cell elongation. These vegetative cell deformities were accompanied by inability of mutant strains to generate morphologically intact spores. Higher levels of polyhydroxybutyrate granules accumulation were also observed in these deletion strains, indicating a defect in sporulation process. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, the vital role played by McsB and ClpC in physiology of B. anthracis and open up further interest on this operon, which might be of importance to success of B. anthracis as pathogen.
Bilirubin oxidase‐like proteins from Podospora anserina: promising thermostable enzymes for application in transformation of plant biomass
Authors: Xie Ning , Ruprich‐Robert Gwenaël , Silar Philippe , Chapeland‐Leclerc Florence 
Published: June 2014

SummaryPlant biomass degradation by fungi is a critical step for production of biofuels, and laccases are common ligninolytic enzymes envisioned for ligninolysis. Bilirubin oxidases (BODs)‐like are related to laccases, but their roles during lignocellulose degradation have not yet been fully investigated. The two BODs of the ascomycete fungus Podospora anserina were characterized by targeted gene deletions. Enzymatic assay revealed that the bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants lost partly a thermostable laccase activity. A triple mutant inactivated for bod1, bod2 and mco, a previously investigated multicopper oxidase gene distantly related to laccases, had no thermostable laccase activity. The pattern of fruiting body production in the bod1Δbod2Δ double mutant was changed. The bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants were reduced in their ability to grow on ligneous and cellulosic materials. Furthermore, bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants were defective towards resistance to phenolic substrates and H2O2, which may also impact lignocellulose breakdown. Double and triple mutants were more affected than single mutants, evidencing redundancy of function among BODs and mco. Overall, the data show that bod1, bod2 and mco code for non‐canonical thermostable laccases that participate in the degradation of lignocellulose. Thanks to their thermal stability, these enzymes may be more promising candidate for biotechnological application than canonical laccases.
Space and Identity in Resistance against Neoliberal Urban Planning in Turkey
Authors: Lelandais Gülçin Erdi 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThis article highlights the role of collective identity and space in the emergence of social resistance within a neoliberal context. It argues that the attempted eviction of residents from their established neighbourhoods through public planning projects generates resistance against the reappropriation of these spaces and has encouraged new forms of resistance among inhabitants in several neighbourhoods. I particularly emphasize that planning projects often displace particular populations by force, principally minority communities, in order to confine them to new resettlement areas far from their customary living places, which has a socioeconomic impact on people's identity, everyday life and social solidarity. The article is based on empirical research in two neighbourhoods in Istanbul — 1 Mayıs and Sulukule — to analyse practices of resistance of inhabitants in everyday life and examine how this resistance shapes their identity and daily life.
Influence of storage, brine concentration and in‐container heat treatment on the stability of white brined Nabulsi cheese
Authors: Al‐Dabbas Maher M , Saleh Mohammed , Abu‐Ghoush Mahmoud H , Al‐Ismail Khalid , Osaili Tareq 
Published: June 2014

Microbial levels were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by the temperature‐time treatments used during in‐container heat treatment of the curd, brine concentration and storage duration. A heat treatment of 115 °C × 2 min, in the absence of NaCl, was sufficient to eliminate Mesophilic micro‐organisms, Coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and Yeast and Moulds for the duration of 1 year of storage. Sensory scores for colour, appearance and texture increased significantly (P < 0.05) with the increase in the NaCl in brine concentration regardless of the temperature‐time treatment.
Docetaxel rechallenge after an initial good response in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Oudard Stéphane , Kramer Gero , Caffo Orazio , Creppy Lorraine , Loriot Yohan , Hansen Steinbjoern , Holmberg Mats , Rolland Frederic , Machiels Jean‐Pascal , Krainer Michael 
Published: June 2014

ObjectiveTo evaluate the benefit of docetaxel rechallenge in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) relapsing after an initial good response to first‐line docetaxel.Patients and MethodsWe retrospectively reviewed the records of consecutive patients with mCRPC with a good response to first‐line docetaxel [serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) decrease ≥50%; no clinical/radiological progression]. We analysed the impact of management at relapse (docetaxel rechallenge or non‐taxane‐based therapy) on PSA response, symptomatic response (performance status/pain/analgesic consumption), and overall survival (OS). We used multivariate stepwise logistic regression to analyse potential predictors of a favourable outcome.ResultsWe identified 270 good responders to first‐line docetaxel. The median progression‐free interval (PFI) was 6 months from the last docetaxel dose. At relapse, 223 patients were rechallenged with docetaxel (82.5%) and 47 received non‐taxane‐based therapy. There was no significant difference in median OS {18.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 16.1–22.00] and 16.8 [95%CI 13.4–21.5] months, respectively, P = 0.35}. However, good PSA response and symptom relief/stable disease were more frequent on docetaxel rechallenge (40.4% vs 10.6%, P < 0.001 for PSA). A PFI of >6 months and added estramustine predicted a good PSA response and symptomatic response on docetaxel rechallenge but only a PFI of >6 months predicted longer OS. Haemoglobin (<13 g/dL) and pain were associated with reduced OS. Docetaxel rechallenge increased the incidence of grade ≥3 sensory neuropathy, nail disorders and asthenia/fatigue.ConclusionsDocetaxel rechallenge is a management option for responders to docetaxel with a PFI of >6 months, but did not prolong survival. Potential benefits should be weighed against the risk of cumulative toxicity.
Futures of Tropical Forests (sensu lato)
Authors: Putz Francis E. , Romero Claudia 
Published: June 2014

AbstractWhen net deforestation declines in the tropics, attention will be drawn to the composition and structure of the retained, restored, invaded, and created forests. At that point, the seemingly inexorable trends toward increased intensities of exploitation and management will be recognized as having taken their tolls of biodiversity and other forest values. Celebrations when a country passes this ‘forest transition’ will then be tempered by realization that what has been accepted as ‘forest’ spans the gamut from short‐rotation mono‐clonal stands of genetically engineered trees to fully protected old growth natural forest. With management intensification, climate change, species introductions, landscape fragmentation, fire, and shifts in economics and governance, forests will vary along gradients of biodiversity, novelty of composition, stature, permanence, and the relative roles of natural and anthropogenic forces. Management intensity will increase with the increased availability of financial capital associated with economic globalization, scarcity of wood and other forest products, demand for biofuels, improved governance (e.g., security of property rights), improved accessibility, and technological innovations that lead to new markets for forest products. In a few places, the trend toward land‐use intensification will be counterbalanced by recognition of the many benefits of natural and semi‐natural forests, especially where forest‐fate determiners are compensated for revenues foregone from not intensifying management. Land‐use practices informed by research designed and conducted by embedded scientists will help minimize the tradeoffs between the financial profits from forest management and the benefits of retention of biodiversity and the full range of environmental services.
Variations and Trade‐offs in Functional Traits of Tree Seedlings during Secondary Succession in a Tropical Lowland Rain Forest
Authors: Lu Xinghui , Zang Runguo , Ding Yi , Letcher Susan G. , Long Wenxing , Huang Yunfeng 
Published: June 2014

AbstractThe seedling stage is generally the most important bottleneck for the successful regeneration of trees in forests. The traits of seedlings, particularly biomass allocation and root traits, are more easily quantified than the traits of adults. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that seedling traits vary and trade‐off tracking the changing environment during secondary succession. We measured the major morphological traits of 27 dominant species and the major environmental factors in a chronosequence (30‐yr‐old fallow, 60‐yr‐old fallow, and old growth forest) after shifting cultivation in a tropical lowland rain forest on Hainan Island, China. The 30‐yr‐old fallow had higher light and nutrient availability, and the older forests had higher soil water content. Redundancy analysis based on species abundance and environmental factors revealed groups of seedlings that dominate in different stages of succession. Seedlings in different stages of succession had different strategies of biomass allocation for harvesting resources that varied in availability. Species characteristic of younger forest had higher allocation to roots and higher specific leaf area, while species characteristic of older forest had higher allocation to leaves. Our study suggests that the variations and trade‐offs in the major functional traits of tree seedlings among successional classes may reflect changes in environmental conditions during succession.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Salicylanilide Derivatives as Potential Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors
Authors: Hu Minhua , Ye Wenfeng , Li Jiaming , Zhong Guochen , He Guangwei , Xu Qinlong , Zhang Yanchun 
Published: June 2014

Two series of novel salicylanilide were synthesized as potential epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. The enzyme inhibitory activity against EGFR of all compounds was carried out, and their antiproliferative activities against the A549 and A431 cell lines were also evaluated. Of the compounds studied, majority of them exhibited high antiproliferative activities compared with gefitinib; especially, 12a and 12b exhibited stronger inhibitory activity against EGFR with IC50 values of 10.4 ± 2.25 and 15.4 ± 2.33 nm, respectively, which were comparable to the positive control of gefitinib (IC50 = 12.1 ± 2.21 nm). Compound 12b also showed outstanding inhibitory activity against A431 and A549 cell lines with the IC50 values of 0.42 ± 0.43 μm and 0.57 ± 0.43 μm, which was better than the positive controls. In the molecular modeling study, compound 12b was bound into the active pocket of EGFR with two hydrogen bond and with minimum binding free energy ▵Gb = −25.1125 kcal/mol. The result also suggested that compound 12b could bind the EGFR kinase well.
A comparison of low‐dose ACTH, glucagon stimulation and insulin tolerance test in patients with pituitary disorders
Authors: Simsek Y. , Karaca Z. , Tanriverdi F. , Unluhizarci K. , Selcuklu A. , Kelestimur F. 
Published: June 2014

SummaryContextDiagnosis of secondary adrenal insufficiency and GH deficiency requires evaluation by dynamic stimulation tests in most cases. Although insulin tolerance test (ITT) is accepted as the gold‐standard test for the evaluation of both hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) and (GH)‐IGF‐1 axes, the test is cumbersome. In clinical practice, low‐dose adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test is a sensitive, safe and easily applicable alternative to ITT. Although it takes more time, glucagon stimulation test (GST) is also a good alternative to ITT and can evaluate both axes.ObjectiveThe primary aim of this study was to compare the ITT, low‐dose ACTH and GSTs in the evaluation of HPA and GH‐IGF‐1 axes in patients with pituitary disorders and to evaluate the repeatability of all three tests.DesignITT, low‐dose ACTH and GSTs were performed in all 129 patients, and the tests were repeated in 66 of these patients.SettingErciyes University Medical School, Department of Endocrinology.Patients or Other ParticipantsOne hundred and twenty‐nine adult patients (76 women, 53 men) with pituitary disorder were included in the study.Main Outcome Measure(s)The cortisol and GH responses of patients to dynamic tests.ResultsPeak cortisol levels obtained during ITT were significantly lower than the values obtained during both low‐dose ACTH and GSTs. Peak cortisol levels obtained during the GST were lower than those found during the low dose ACTH stimulation test. Peak GH responses were found to be higher in GST than in ITT. All three tests had good reproducibility.ConclusionsAny of 3 tests can be used in the evaluation of the HPA axis and either GST or the ITT can be used in the evaluation of the GH‐IGF‐1 axis but cut‐off levels for the insufficiency of HPA or GH‐IGF‐1 axis should be individualized for each test.
The Rate of Degradation of Chemical Cues Indicating Predation Risk: An Experiment and Review
Authors: Van Buskirk Josh , Krügel Andri , Kunz Julia , Miss Fabia , Stamm Alba 
Published: June 2014

AbstractMany prey taxa use kairomones or alarm pheromones to assess the risk of predation in aquatic environments, and the rate at which these cues attenuate determines how precisely they indicate the local density of predators. We estimated the rate of degradation of chemical cues generated by Aeshna dragonfly larvae feeding on Rana temporaria tadpoles. The half‐life of the cue was 35 h and was not influenced by whether it was aged in pond water or tap water or whether other tadpoles were present in the container in which cue‐aging occurred. A review of other published estimates of predator cue half‐life revealed values of 0.2–126 h, and variation among studies was unrelated to the type of aging water, the venue in which water was aged or prey behavior observed (laboratory, field), or the type of behavior that was recorded. We conclude that factors affecting the persistence of predator cues remain uncertain in spite of their importance for understanding the evolution of induced defenses.
Assortative Pairings in Diamond Firetails (Stagonopleura guttata) are not the Result of Mutual Mate Choice for an Ornament
Authors: Zanollo Valeria , Griggio Matteo , Robertson Jeremy , Kleindorfer Sonia 
Published: June 2014

AbstractPositive assortative mating occurs when individuals with similar phenotypes mate more frequently with each other than is expected by chance. In species in which both the males and females are ornamented, assortative pairings could arise from mutual mate choice on the same trait. We test this mechanism of mate choice and assortative pairing in the Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata), an Australian estrildid finch in which both sexes are ornamented with red bills, red rumps and white flank spots. We have previously shown sex differences in the degree of ornamentation as females have more flank spots than males. These white flank spots are used during sexual display, being fully displayed by courting males and by females when approaching a displaying male. Here, we experimentally test whether mutual mate preference is based on the number of flank spots. There was no evidence for a direct mutual preference for spot number. Given a choice of potential mates with a natural or experimentally manipulated number of flank spots, males preferred females with more spots, while female preference was not solely based on flank spots. Intriguingly, in both wild and captive Diamond Firetails, we found the number of flank spots in pairs was correlated suggesting a basis for positive assortative pairing. Nevertheless, we conclude that assortative pairing in Diamond Firetails is not due to mutual choice of mates based on the number of flank spots. We discuss different selection pathways for this trait in each sex.