bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg activation, fertilization, buoyancy and early embryology of European eel, Anguilla anguilla
Authors: Sørensen Sune Riis , Butts Ian Anthony Ernest , Munk Peter , Tomkiewicz Jonna 
Published: February 2015

SummaryImproper activation and swelling of in vitro produced eggs of European eel, Anguilla anguilla, has been shown to negatively affect embryonic development and hatching. We investigated this phenomenon by examining the effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg dimensions, cell cleavage patterns and egg buoyancy. Egg diameter after activation, using natural seawater adjusted to different salinities, varied among female eels, but no consistent pattern emerged. Activation salinities between 30–40 practical salinity unit (psu) produced higher quality eggs and generally larger egg diameters. Chorion diameters reached maximal values of 1642 ± 8 μm at 35 psu. A positive relationship was found between egg neutral buoyancy and activation salinity. Nine salt types were investigated as activation and incubation media. Five of these types induced a substantial perivitelline space (PVS), leading to large egg sizes, while the remaining four salt types resulted in smaller eggs. All salt types except NaCl treatments led to high fertilization rates and had no effect on fertilization success as well as egg neutral buoyancies at 7 h post-fertilization. The study points to the importance of considering ionic composition of the media when rearing fish eggs and further studies are encouraged.
In vitro embryos production after oocytes treatment with forskolin
Authors: Paschoal Daniela Martins , Maziero Rosiára Rosária Dias , Sudano Mateus José , Guastali Midyan Daroz , Vergara Luis Eduardo , Crocomo Letícia Ferrari , Lima-Neto João Ferreira de , Magalhães Luis Carlos Oña , Monteiro Bianca Andriolo , Rascado Tatiana da Silva , Martins Alício , Leal Claudia Lima Verde , Landim-Alvarenga Fernanda da Cruz 
Published: February 2015

SummaryThe inhibition of nuclear maturation allows time for the oocyte to accumulate molecules that are important for embryonic development. Thus, the objective of this work was to evaluate the effect of blocking oocyte meiosis with the addition of forskolin, an efficient inhibitor of nuclear maturation, in in vitro maturation (IVM) medium. Forskolin was added to the IVM medium for 6 h at concentrations of 0.1 mM, 0.05 mM or 0.025 mM, then the oocytes were allowed to mature in drug-free medium for 18 h. The oocytes were assessed for the stage of nuclear maturation, the activity and distribution of mitochondria, oocyte ultrastructure, the number of viable cells and the apoptosis rate. After forskolin treatment, the oocytes were fertilized in vitro and cultured for 7 days. On day 7, the blastocyst rate, the ultrastructure, the number of intact cells and the apoptosis rate of the blastocysts were measured. No differences were observed for the stage of nuclear maturation of the oocyte, the mitochondrial activity and distribution, the blastocyst rate or total number of intact cells. However, a higher rate of apoptosis was observed in the blastocysts produced from oocytes blocked for 6 h with the higher concentration of forskolin (P < 0.05). We conclude that all the experimental groups reached the MII stage after the addition of forskolin and that the highest concentration of forskolin caused cellular degeneration without harming embryo production on the 7th day.
Regulation of recombinant human insulin-induced maturational events inClarias batrachus(L.) oocytesin vitro
Authors: Hajra Sudip , Das Debabrata , Ghosh Pritha , Pal Soumojit , Nath Poulomi , Maitra Sudipta 
Published: February 2015

SummaryRegulation of insulin-mediated resumption of meiotic maturation in catfish oocytes was investigated. Insulin stimulation of post-vitellogenic oocytes promotes the synthesis of cyclin B, histone H1 kinase activation and a germinal vesicle breakdown (GVBD) response in a dose-dependent and duration-dependent manner. The PI3K inhibitor wortmannin abrogates recombinant human (rh)-insulin action on histone H1 kinase activation and meiotic G2–M1 transition in denuded and follicle-enclosed oocytesin vitro.While the translational inhibitor cycloheximide attenuates rh-insulin action, priming with transcriptional blocker actinomycin D prevents insulin-stimulated maturational response appreciably, albeit in low amounts. Compared with rh-insulin, human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) stimulation of follicle-enclosed oocytesin vitrotriggers a sharp increase in 17α,20β-dihydroxy-4-pregnen-3-one (17α,20β-DHP) secreted in the incubation medium at 12 h. Interestingly, the insulin, but not the hCG-induced, maturational response shows less susceptibility to steroidogenesis inhibitors, trilostane ordl-aminoglutethimide. In addition, priming with phosphodiesterase inhibitor, 3-isobutyl-1-methylxanthine (IBMX) or cell-permeable dbcAMP or adenylyl cyclase activator forskolin reverses the action of insulin on meiotic G2–M1 transition. Conversely, the adenylyl cyclase inhibitor, SQ 22536, or PKA inhibitor H89 promotes the resumption of meiosis alone and further potentiates the GVBD response in the presence of rh-insulin. Furthermore, insulin-mediated meiotic maturation involves the down-regulation of endogenous protein kinase A (PKA) activity in a manner sensitive to PI3K activation, suggesting potential involvement of a cross-talk between cAMP/PKA and insulin-mediated signalling cascade in catfish oocytesin vitro.Taken together, these results suggest that rh-insulin regulation of the maturational response inC. batrachusoocytes involves down-regulation of PKA, synthesis of cyclin B, and histone H1 kinase activation and demonstrates reduced sensitivity to steroidogenesis and transcriptional inhibition.
Academic achievement and satisfaction in adolescents with CHD
Authors: Schaefer Christina J. , Hoop Ricarda , Schürch-Reith Stefanie , Stambach Dominik , Kretschmar Oliver , Bauersfeld Urs , Latal Beatrice , Landolt Markus A. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractObjectivesTo evaluate academic achievement and satisfaction in adolescents with CHD.Study designQuestionnaires were sent to all adolescents, aged between 17 and 20 years with CHD, currently treated at our hospital (n=326) in order to assess the patients’ education and satisfaction with their academic career. Results were compared with the official community statistics.ResultsA total of 207 patients completed the questionnaires (participation rate 63.5%), 113 boys and 94 girls; 50% had completed mandatory school at the highest, 37.3% at the middle, and 12.7% at the lowest educational level. The distribution in the general population was comparable: 57.6, 32.5, and 9.9%, respectively (p=0.8). Adolescents with severe CHD were less likely to attain a higher educational level than those with moderate or mild CHD (p=0.03 for school grades 7–9). None of the other examined medical or socio-demographic factors, such as socio-economic status, foreign language, severity of CHD, cyanosis, and open heart surgery, were found to be associated with lower educational attainment. After the mandatory 9 years of schooling, 21.4% (n=44) of the patients with CHD compared with 16.7% in the general population attended higher school levels heading towards university education (p=0.7). From the 165 patients who provided information on career satisfaction, 79% regarded their job or school situation as being their desired one without a difference for those with severe CHD.ConclusionSchool education in Swiss adolescents with CHD is very similar to the normal population. In addition, the majority of adolescents are satisfied with their educational career. This fact may be due to the good educational support provided during schooling.
No evidence of inhibition of horizontal gene transfer by CRISPR–Cas on evolutionary timescales
Authors: Gophna Uri , Kristensen David M , Wolf Yuri I , Popa Ovidiu , Drevet Christine , Koonin Eugene V 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
The CRISPR (clustered, regularly, interspaced, short, palindromic repeats)–Cas (CRISPR-associated genes) systems of archaea and bacteria provide adaptive immunity against viruses and other selfish elements and are believed to curtail horizontal gene transfer (HGT). Limiting acquisition of new genetic material could be one of the sources of the fitness cost of CRISPR–Cas maintenance and one of the causes of the patchy distribution of CRISPR–Cas among bacteria, and across environments. We sought to test the hypothesis that the activity of CRISPR–Cas in microbes is negatively correlated with the extent of recent HGT. Using three independent measures of HGT, we found no significant dependence between the length of CRISPR arrays, which reflects the activity of the immune system, and the estimated number of recent HGT events. In contrast, we observed a significant negative dependence between the estimated extent of HGT and growth temperature of microbes, which could be explained by the lower genetic diversity in hotter environments. We hypothesize that the relevant events in the evolution of resistance to mobile elements and proclivity for HGT, to which CRISPR–Cas systems seem to substantially contribute, occur on the population scale rather than on the timescale of species evolution.
Weak linkage between the heaviest rainfall and tallest storms
Authors: Hamada Atsushi , Takayabu Yukari N. , Liu Chuntao , Zipser Edward J. 
Published: February 2015

AbstractConventionally, the heaviest rainfall has been linked to the tallest, most intense convective storms. However, the global picture of the linkage between extreme rainfall and convection remains unclear. Here we analyse an 11-year record of spaceborne precipitation radar observations and establish that a relatively small fraction of extreme convective events produces extreme rainfall rates in any region of the tropics and subtropics. Robust differences between extreme rainfall and convective events are found in the rainfall characteristics and environmental conditions, irrespective of region; most extreme rainfall events are characterized by less intense convection with intense radar echoes not extending to extremely high altitudes. Rainfall characteristics and environmental conditions both indicate the importance of warm-rain processes in producing extreme rainfall rates. Our results demonstrate that, even in regions where severe convective storms are representative extreme weather events, the heaviest rainfall events are mostly associated with less intense convection.
Real-time tracking of cell cycle progression during CD8+ effector and memory T-cell differentiation
Authors: Kinjyo Ichiko , Qin Jim , Tan Sioh-Yang , Wellard Cameron J. , Mrass Paulus , Ritchie William , Doi Atsushi , Cavanagh Lois L. , Tomura Michio , Sakaue-Sawano Asako , Kanagawa Osami , Miyawaki Atsushi , Hodgkin Philip D. , Weninger Wolfgang 
Published: February 2015

AbstractThe precise pathways of memory T-cell differentiation are incompletely understood. Here we exploit transgenic mice expressing fluorescent cell cycle indicators to longitudinally track the division dynamics of individual CD8+ T cells. During influenza virus infection in vivo, naive T cells enter a CD62Lintermediate state of fast proliferation, which continues for at least nine generations. At the peak of the anti-viral immune response, a subpopulation of these cells markedly reduces their cycling speed and acquires a CD62Lhi central memory cell phenotype. Construction of T-cell family division trees in vitro reveals two patterns of proliferation dynamics. While cells initially divide rapidly with moderate stochastic variations of cycling times after each generation, a slow-cycling subpopulation displaying a CD62Lhi memory phenotype appears after eight divisions. Phenotype and cell cycle duration are inherited by the progeny of slow cyclers. We propose that memory precursors cell-intrinsically modulate their proliferative activity to diversify differentiation pathways.
Supersymmetry-Inspired Non-Hermitian Optical Couplers
Authors: Principe Maria , Castaldi Giuseppe , Consales Marco , Cusano Andrea , Galdi Vincenzo 
Published: February 2015

AbstractSupersymmetry has been shown to provide a systematic and effective framework for generating classes of isospectral optical structures featuring perfectly-phase-matched modes, with the exception of one (fundamental) mode which can be removed. More recently, this approach has been extended to non-Hermitian scenarios characterized by spatially-modulated distributions of optical loss and gain, in order to allow the removal of higher-order modes as well. In this paper, we apply this approach to the design of non-Hermitian optical couplers with higher-order mode-selection functionalities, with potential applications to mode-division multiplexing in optical links. In particular, we highlight the critical role of the coupling between non-Hermitian optical waveguides, which generally induces a phase transition to a complex eigenspectrum, thereby hindering the targeted mode-selection functionality. With the specific example of an optical coupler that selects the second-order mode of a given waveguide, we illustrate the aforementioned limitations and propose possible strategies to overcome them, bearing in mind the practical feasibility of the gain levels required.
Approaching the Journal des Sçavans, 1665–1695: a manual analysis of thematic structure
Authors: Banks David 
Published: February 2015

Abstract
The Journal des Sçavans was the first academic journal to appear. The first issue was published in Paris in January 1665. It was edited by Denis de Sallo at the instigation of Louis XIV’s first minister, Colbert, whose objective was the state control of new knowledge. This study is based on a sample of texts from the Journal des Sçavans for the period 1665–1696 totalling approximately 66,000 words. These texts are available on Internet, but only in image form, so they are distinctly non-digital and not amenable to computer analysis; this paper gives a manual analysis of thematic structure as a way of showing that manual analysis can provide interesting and significant results. This analysis shows that 73% of themes function as grammatical subject (rather less than might be expected), and 22% as circumstantial adjunct (rather more than might be expected); 52% of the latter are clausal in form. Ranking clauses frequently have a textual theme (29%), but only rarely an interpersonal theme (3%). Reference to humans other than the author account for 37% of topical themes and constitute the largest semantic group. These are usually the author of a book under review or a person mentioned in a book under review. Reviewers, however, rarely refer to themselves, and when they do it is usually in general terms. These results have intrinsic interest as an example of the use of thematic structure in early academic periodical writing in French, but also show that manual analysis remains a useful tool in approaching texts which are not amenable to computer analysis.
Assessing the Effect of Vernalization on the Detection of Phytophthora ramorum from Native Soil, Potting Media, and Cull Piles in Oregon Nurseries
Authors: Osterbauer Nancy K. , Navarro Sarah , Lane Shannon , Trippe Aaron 
Published: February 2015

Nurseries in which Phytophthora ramorum is detected must undergo the USDA Confirmed Nursery Protocol (CNP) to eliminate the pathogen. The CNP requires a survey to determine the extent of the nursery's infestation, with samples tested immediately and after a required vernalization period. Previous research suggested this improves detection. Our objective was to determine if vernalization influenced pathogen recovery from native soil, potting media, and cull piles naturally exposed to P. ramorum in infested Oregon nurseries. Accepted 10 December 2014. Published 21 January 2015.
Survey and Detection of ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ in a Citrus Nursery Facility in South Texas
Authors: Alabi Olufemi J. , Kunta Madhurababu , Dale Jon , Sétamou Mamoudou 
Published: February 2015

Huanglongbing (HLB) disease, associated with ‘Candidatus Liberibacter asiaticus’ (CLas), is primarily spread via infected citrus nursery trees and by infective Asian citrus psyllid, the insect vector. Recently, the Texas Department of Agriculture initiated regulations requiring commercial and retail citrus nurseries in Texas to transition from traditional open-field to enclosed facilities with insect-resistant screens to mitigate the risk of nurseries serving as sources of CLas. Although several nursery production facilities have adopted this regulation, non-enclosed nurseries persist and pose a significant threat to the citrus industry as potential sources of CLas. A systematic survey for HLB was embarked on in a semi-open nursery facility in South Texas in April 2014. Leaf tissue samples taken from 94 trees representing 5% of the total number of potted trees in the nursery were tested for CLas by quantitative and conventional PCR assays. Of 94 trees tested, 3.2% (3 trees) were positive for CLas by both assays. The presence of CLas in the PCR-positive samples was confirmed by multi-locus sequence analyses. The results represent the first report of HLB in a nursery facility in Texas, and underscore the need for more intensive surveillance for HLB in citrus nursery stock as an integral component of HLB mitigation efforts in Texas. Accepted for publication 27 August 2014. Published 15 December 2014.
Adenosine Monophosphate–activated Protein Kinase Regulates Interleukin-1β Expression and Glial Glutamate Transporter Function in Rodents with Neuropathic Pain
Authors: Maixner Dylan W. , Yan Xisheng , Gao Mei , Yadav Ruchi , Weng Han-Rong 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAbstract
Nerve injury reduced adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) activity, increased inflammation, reduced glutamate transporter expression in the spinal cord, and induced thermal hyperalgesia. Activation of AMPK increased glutamate transporter activity and reduced neuropathic pain; by contrast, knockdown of AMPK induced allodynia. These data indicate that AMPK plays an important role in nociceptive processing in the spinal cord and extend the novel possibility of manipulation of AMPK activity as a therapeutic target in experimental models of pain.

Background:
Neuroinflammation and dysfunctional glial glutamate transporters (GTs) in the spinal dorsal horn are implicated in the genesis of neuropathic pain. The authors determined whether adenosine monophosphate–activated protein kinase (AMPK) in the spinal dorsal horn regulates these processes in rodents with neuropathic pain.

Methods:
Hind paw withdrawal responses to radiant heat and mechanical stimuli were used to assess nociceptive behaviors. Spinal markers related to neuroinflammation and glial GTs were determined by Western blotting. AMPK activities were manipulated pharmacologically and genetically. Regulation of glial GTs was determined by measuring protein expression and activities of glial GTs.

Results:
AMPK activities were reduced in the spinal dorsal horn of rats (n = 5) with thermal hyperalgesia induced by nerve injury, which were accompanied with the activation of astrocytes, increased production of interleukin-1β and activities of glycogen synthase kinase 3β, and suppressed protein expression of glial glutamate transporter-1. Thermal hyperalgesia was reversed by spinal activation of AMPK in neuropathic rats (n = 10) and induced by inhibiting spinal AMPK in naive rats (n = 7 to 8). Spinal AMPKα knockdown (n = 6) and AMPKα1 conditional knockout (n = 6) induced thermal hyperalgesia and mechanical allodynia. These genetic alterations mimicked the changes of molecular markers induced by nerve injury. Pharmacological activation of AMPK enhanced glial GT activity in mice with neuropathic pain (n = 8) and attenuated glial glutamate transporter-1 internalization induced by interleukin-1β (n = 4).

Conclusions:
These findings suggest that enhancing spinal AMPK activities could be an effective approach for the treatment of neuropathic pain.
Smørrebrød or Smörgåsbord: the Danish and Swedish drug users unions: contexts, aims, activities, achievements
Authors: Johansson Mikael , Kjær Jørgen , Stothard Blaine 
Published: February 2015

Purpose
– The purpose of this paper is to first, inform readers of the roles, activities and contexts of drug users unions in Denmark and Sweden. Second, to show the achievements and impacts of the two. Third, to illustrate the differing social and political situations in the two countries and how they determine the priorities and activity of the unions.

Design/methodology/approach
– The paper is written by a UK commentator who bases the text on meetings, interviews and conversations with members and representatives of the two unions. Spokespersons for both unions have contributed to, commented on and clarified draft texts and provided contextual papers and information.

Findings
– The two unions have differing roles and levels of acceptance and influence according to the political and legal situations in the two countries. There are differing situations and needs in Denmark and Sweden, reflected in the levels of drug-related deaths. There is no “Scandinavian” model. In Denmark the users union is involved in high-level discussions on policy making and practice. In Sweden the new unions are starting to be involved in local discussions about provision and practice.

Research limitations/implications
– Danish experience shows how political acceptance of the existence of a drug using population is leading to improved health and well-being amongst that population, and to social policy responses which are inclusive of this and other marginalised groups, and to a reduction of stigma and demonisation. Swedish experience differs and can be seen as essentially prohibitionist and punitive. Many Swedish drug users are moving to Denmark because of the levels of service and social attitudes. It may be of interest to UK policy to adopt a similar approach to drug users organisations – as distinct from service users’ voices.

Practical implications
– Strengthening the role of drug users unions in all countries and including them in national policy making discussion and debate.

Social implications
– Accepting the existence and needs of drug using groups in society and developing responses informed by their views and experience. Adopting inclusive social policies and recognising the variety of need and choices in treatment. Combatting stigma and demonisation.

Originality/value
– The paper is based on extensive interviews and conversations whose results and content are recorded, not interpreted. The Danish work was conducted in Danish, adding to the number of voices and conversations it was possible to include. A distinction between policy and practice in Denmark and Sweden is established which may run counter to UK impressions of “Scandinavian” rather than national realities.