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Turn‐taking is a universal pattern of human conversations characterized by a fast exchange of turns between speakers and an avoidance of overlaps. Language is embedded in this conversational skill acquired well before it during infancy, through everyday interactions with caregivers. The earliness of this skill and its link with language allows us to test whether social environment shapes early language development. We therefore study turn‐taking perception of 6‐month‐old infants by measuring their gazes during video presentation of three different conversational situations where the turn is explicitly given, normally taken or taken with an overlap. We studied 51 infants to cover several family and infant characteristics: infants' sex, presence of siblings, and family socioeconomic status (SES). We found that infants looked more at the second speaker when she overlapped the first speaker than in the other situations, but not all infants were equally sensitive. Indeed, infants from high‐SES families reacted differently to the three situations, while infants from the two lower SES categories did not. Also, only singletons reacted differently by looking more at the second speaker after the overlapping and turn‐giving situations, and not after the turn‐taking situation. Our results emphasize the importance of early social experiences on language development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The mechanisms utilized by different flaviviruses to evade antiviral functions of interferons are varied and incompletely understood. Using virological approaches, biochemical assays, and mass spectrometry analyses, we report here that the NS5 protein of tick‐borne encephalitis virus (TBEV) and Louping Ill virus (LIV), two related tick‐borne flaviviruses, antagonize JAK–STAT signaling through interactions with the tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2). Co‐immunoprecipitation (co‐IP) experiments, yeast gap‐repair assays, computational protein–protein docking and functional studies identify a stretch of 10 residues of the RNA dependent RNA polymerase domain of tick‐borne flavivirus NS5, but not mosquito‐borne NS5, that is critical for interactions with the TYK2 kinase domain. Additional co‐IP assays performed with several TYK2 orthologs reveal that the interaction is conserved across mammalian species. In vitro kinase assays show that TBEV and LIV NS5 reduce the catalytic activity of TYK2. Our results thus illustrate a novel mechanism by which viruses suppress the interferon response. Synopsis: The NS5 protein of tick‐borne flaviviruses interacts with TYK2, a key kinase of the JAK/STAT pathway. Consequently, the ability of TYK2 to phosphorylate its substrates is impaired and the interferon response is inhibited.NS5 of tick‐borne flaviviruses interacts with tyrosine kinase 2 (TYK2) and reduces its ability to phosphorylate STAT1.10 residues in the RNA dependent RNA polymerase domain of NS5 are critical for interactions with the TYK2 kinase domain.The NS5/TYK2 interaction is conserved across mammalian species that are relevant for tick‐borne flavivirus ecology.Tick‐borne flaviviruses are employing a unique mechanism to antagonize interferon signaling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early deprivation of adult influence is known to have long‐lasting effects on social abilities, notably communication skills, as adults play a key role in guiding and regulating the behavior of youngsters, including acoustic repertoire use in species in which vocal production is not learned. Cheetahs grow up alongside their mother for 18 months, thus maternal influences on the development of social skills are likely to be crucial. Here, we investigated the impact of early maternal deprivation on vocal production and use in 12 wild‐born cheetahs, rescued and subsequently hand‐reared either at an early (less than 2 months) or a later stage of development. We could distinguish 16 sound types, produced mostly singly but sometimes in repeated or multitype sound sequences. The repertoire of these cheetahs did not differ fundamentally from that described in other studies on adult cheetahs, but statistical analyses revealed a concurrent effect of both early experience and sex on repertoire use. More specifically, early‐reared males were characterized by a high proportion of Purr, Meow, and Stutter; early‐reared females Mew, Growl, Hoot, Sneeze, and Hiss; late‐reared males Meow, Mew, Growl, and Howl; and late‐reared females mostly Meow. Our study demonstrates therefore the long‐term effects of maternal deprivation on communication skills in a limited‐vocal learner and its differential effect according to sex, in line with known social differences and potential differential maternal investment. More generally, it emphasizes the critical importance to consider the past history of the subjects (e.g., captive/wild‐born, mother/hand‐reared, early/late‐mother‐deprived, etc.) when studying social behavior, notably acoustic communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hairy root systems have proven to be a viable alternative for recombinant protein production. For recalcitrant proteins, maximizing the productivity of hairy root cultures is essential. The aim of this study was to optimize a Brassica rapa rapa hairy root process for secretion of alpha‐ l‐iduronidase (IDUA), a biologic of medical value. The process was first optimized with hairy roots expressing eGFP. For the biomass optimization, the highest biomass yields were achieved in modified Gamborg B5 culture medium. For the secretion induction, the optimized secretion media was obtained with additives (1.5 g/l PVP + 1 mg/l 2,4‐ d + 20.5 g/l KNO3) resulting in 3.4 fold eGFP secretion when compared to the non‐induced control. These optimized conditions were applied to the IDUA‐expressing hairy root clone, confirming that the highest yields of secreted IDUA occurred when using the defined additive combination. The functionality of the IDUA protein, secreted and intracellular, was confirmed with an enzymatic activity assay. A > 150‐fold increase of the IDUA activity was observed using an optimized secretion medium, compared with a non‐induced medium. We have proven that our B. rapa rapa hairy root system can be harnessed to secrete recalcitrant proteins, illustrating the high potential of hairy roots in plant molecular farming. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the last decade, two hypotheses, one on the evolution of animal vocal communication in general and the other on the origins of human language, have gained ground. The first hypothesis argues that the complexity of communication co‐evolved with the complexity of sociality. Species forming larger groups with complex social networks have more elaborate vocal repertoires. The second hypothesis posits that the core of communication is represented not only by what can be expressed by an isolated caller, but also by the way that vocal interactions are structured, language being above all a social act. Primitive forms of conversational rules based on a vocal turn‐taking principle are thought to exist in primates. To support and bring together these hypotheses, more comparative studies of socially diverse species at different levels of the primate phylogeny are needed. However, the majority of available studies focus on monkeys, primates that are distant from the human lineage. Great apes represent excellent candidates for such comparative studies because of their phylogenetic proximity to humans and their varied social lives. We propose that studying vocal turn‐taking in apes could address several major gaps regarding the social relevance of vocal turn‐taking and the evolutionary trajectory of this behaviour among anthropoids. Indeed, how the social structure of a species may influence the vocal interaction patterns observed among group members remains an open question. We gathered data from the literature as well as original unpublished data (where absent in the literature) on four great ape species: chimpanzees Pan troglodytes, bonobos Pan paniscus, western lowland gorillas Gorilla gorilla gorilla and Bornean orang‐utans Pongo pygmaeus. We found no clear‐cut relationship between classical social complexity metrics (e.g. number of group members, interaction rates) and vocal complexity parameters (e.g. repertoire size, call rates). Nevertheless, the nature of the society (i.e. group composition, diversity and valence of social bonds) and the type of vocal interaction patterns (isolated calling, call overlap, turn‐taking‐based vocal exchanges) do appear to be related. Isolated calling is the main vocal pattern found in the species with the smallest social networks (orang‐utan), while the other species show vocal interactions that are structured according to temporal rules. A high proportion of overlapping vocalisations is found in the most competitive species (chimpanzee), while vocal turn‐taking predominates in more tolerant bonobos and gorillas. Also, preferentially interacting individuals and call types used to interact are not randomly distributed. Vocal overlap ('chorusing') and vocal exchange ('conversing') appear as possible social strategies used to advertise/strengthen social bonds. Our analyses highlight that: (i) vocal turn‐taking is also observed in non‐human great apes, revealing universal rules for conversing that may be deeply rooted in the primate lineage; (ii) vocal interaction patterns match the species' social lifestyle; (iii) although limited to four species here, adopting a targeted comparative approach could help to identify the multiple and subtle factors underlying social and vocal complexity. We believe that vocal interaction patterns form the basis of a promising field of investigation that may ultimately improve our understanding of the socially driven evolution of communication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to apprehend evolution of ceramic manufacture strategy in the Johnston‐Vieillard manufactory (Bordeaux, France), which produced white earthenwares between 1835 and 1895. Glazes of fragments of 76 sherds, dated from different periods of the 19th century and found in excavations were characterised thanks to combined chemical and mechanical analysis. A comparative study was carried out for the determination of boron content in glazes by LA‐ICP‐MS and ion‐beam analyses (PIGE). In addition, an innovative study of the mechanical characteristics of the glazes by nanoindentation experiments was carried out in order to see whether or not the evolution of the glaze recipes was accompanied by an evolution of their mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

"Conversation rules" such as overlap avoidance and coordinated overlap have been reported in nonhuman animals, and seem to be adaptive responses to the requirements of social life. Some species display both patterns in an apparently flexible way, but the social factors mediating their respective usage remain poorly documented. We investigated the potential social factors guiding the usage of these temporal rules during collective howling in six free‐ranging groups of black howler monkeys (Alouatta pigra). First, we found that adult males' vocalizations rarely overlap those of other callers while most adult females' calls overlap other members' calls, especially that of other females. Second, whereas some call types (notably affiliative calls) are typically emitted without overlap, roars (agonistic loud calls) overlap more frequently. Third, coordinated overlap is more frequent during intergroup competition. Our findings support the hypothesis that overlap avoidance and coordinated overlap are two different (here sex‐related) vocal alliance social behaviors, at least for some nonhuman primates. More comparative investigations are now needed to explore further their evolutionary trajectories in this lineage. Research highlights: Howling bouts of howler monkey are temporally structured vocal interactionsAlthough adult females overlap most of their calls, males avoid overlapOverlap rate depends on the social context [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The physiological mechanism induced by the isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 (IDH1) mutation, associated with better treatment response in gliomas, remains unknown. The aim of this preclinical study was to characterize the IDH1 mutation through in vivo multiparametric MRI and MRS. Multiparametric MRI, including the measurement of blood flow, vascularity, oxygenation, permeability, and in vivo MRS, was performed on a 4.7 T animal MRI system in rat brains grafted with human‐derived glioblastoma U87 cell lines expressing or not the IDH1 mutation by the CRISPR/Cas9 method, and secondarily characterized with additional ex vivo HR‐MAS and histological analyses. In univariate analyses, compared with IDH1−, IDH1+ tumors exhibited higher vascular density (p < 0.01) and better perfusion (p = 0.02 for cerebral blood flow), but lower vessel permeability (p < 0.01 for time to peak (TTP), p = 0.04 for contrast enhancement) and decreased T1 map values (p = 0.02). Using linear discriminant analysis, vascular density and TTP values were found to be independent MRI parameters for characterizing the IDH1 mutation (p < 0.01). In vivo MRS and ex vivo HR‐MAS analysis showed lower metabolites of tumor aggressiveness for IDH1+ tumors (p < 0.01). Overall, the IDH1 mutation exhibited a higher vascularity on MRI, a lower permeability, and a less aggressive metabolic profile. These MRI features may prove helpful to better pinpoint the physiological mechanisms induced by this mutation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Journal of Applied Ecology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Journal of Applied Ecology is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Artificial reefs are used around the world for many purposes, including widespread deployment to increase fishery yields. These reefs are well‐studied from a direct fisheries‐based perspective, drawing largely on traditional theory and methodological approaches from population and community ecology.Here we provide an alternative perspective using basic tenets of ecosystem ecology. We focus largely on primary production, as this ecosystem process necessarily constrains the secondary production of fish and invertebrates.We use this ecosystem ecology viewpoint to examine the long‐standing attraction/production question—do artificial reefs support 'new' fish production or simply attract individuals from other habitats? Central to this discussion is identifying ecological thresholds and self‐reinforcing feedbacks. For example, biological or physical processes may facilitate reaching nutrient supply thresholds where fundamental ecological dynamics are shifted, such as enhanced seagrass allocation of resources to above‐ground plant structures following aggregation of fish around reefs.Synthesis and applications. We propose that the scope for enhanced primary productivity (or other accelerated ecosystem processes) is an under‐utilized guideline that can be used to prioritize artificial reef deployment as part of broader coastal management programmes. Such an ecosystem ecology perspective may provide new insights into the ecological role of artificial reefs and guide the optimization of their deployment and management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The term 'ecosystem disservices' is used to refer to ecological costs that humans experience from nature. Managing ecosystems to protect ecosystem function and minimize costs to human well‐being is a global imperative.Like ecosystem services, disservices are outcomes of ecological processes and interactions. They are supplied concurrently with ecosystem services, not as isolated outcomes of ecosystem function. Therefore, accurate measurement of disservices must identify the ecological interactions contributing to the disservice, as well as any associated services. Despite regular calls for increased rigour around measuring services and disservices, conceptual and methodological ambiguities dominate the ecosystem disservices literature.A systematic literature review revealed 85 studies that aimed to explicitly identify or measure ecosystem disservices. Only 13 studies met both essential criteria for an empirical assessment of disservices: identification of the ecological interactions supplying the disservice and identification of associations between services and disservices.Most empirical studies identify ecosystem disservices based on subjective opinions or proxy data, and rarely acknowledge how disservices are related to services within the system. Some identify the presence of unwanted organisms, management costs, minor nuisances and personal aversions as ecosystem disservices.Synthesis and applications. Disservices are supplied concurrently with ecosystem services and human perceptions do not always accurately represent ecological costs in social–ecological systems. Hence, knowledge of the ecological interactions underlying perceived and actual disservices is vital for evidence‐informed decision‐making that sustains biodiversity and human well‐being. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Investigating in depth the mechanisms underlying human and non‐human primate intentional communication systems (involving gestures, vocalisations, facial expressions and eye behaviours) can shed light on the evolutionary roots of language. Reports on non‐human primates, particularly great apes, suggest that gestural communication would have been a crucial prerequisite for the emergence of language, mainly based on the evidence of large communication repertoires and their associated multifaceted nature of intentionality that are key properties of language. Such research fuels important debates on the origins of gestures and language. We review here three non‐mutually exclusive processes that can explain mainly great apes' gestural acquisition and development: phylogenetic ritualisation, ontogenetic ritualisation, and learning via social negotiation. We hypothesise the following scenario for the evolutionary origins of gestures: gestures would have appeared gradually through evolution via signal ritualisation following the principle of derived activities, with the key involvement of emotional expression and processing. The increasing level of complexity of socioecological lifestyles and associated daily manipulative activities might then have enabled the acquisition and development of different interactional strategies throughout the life cycle. Many studies support a multimodal origin of language. However, we stress that the origins of language are not only multimodal, but more broadly multicausal. We propose a multicausal theory of language origins which better explains current findings. It postulates that primates' communicative signalling is a complex trait continually shaped by a cost–benefit trade‐off of signal production and processing of interactants in relation to four closely interlinked categories of evolutionary and life cycle factors: species, individual and context‐related characteristics as well as behaviour and its characteristics. We conclude by suggesting directions for future research to improve our understanding of the evolutionary roots of gestures and language. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite a relatively long history of scientific interest fuelled by exploratory research cruises, the UK deep sea has only recently emerged as the subject of targeted and proactive conservation. Enabling legislation over the past 10 years has resulted in the designation of marine protected areas and the implementation of fisheries management areas as spatial conservation tools. This paper reflects on progress and lessons learned, recommending actions for the future.Increased investment has been made to improve the evidence base for deep‐sea conservation, including collaborative research surveys and use of emerging technologies. New open data portals and developments in marine habitat classification systems have been two notable steps to furthering understanding of deep‐sea biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in support of conservation action.There are still extensive gaps in fundamental knowledge of deep‐sea ecosystems and of cause and effect. Costs of new technologies and a limited ability to share data in a timely and efficient manner across sectors are barriers to furthering understanding. In addition, whilst the concepts of natural capital and ecosystem services are considered a useful tool to support the achievement of conservation goals, practical application is challenging.Continued collaborative research efforts and engagement with industry to share knowledge and resources could offer cost‐effective solutions to some of these barriers. Further elaboration of the concepts of natural capital and ecosystem services will aid understanding of the costs and benefits associated with human–environment interactions and support informed decision‐making in conserving the deep sea.Whilst multiple challenges arise for deep‐sea conservation, it is critical to continue ongoing conservation efforts, including exploration and collaboration, and to adopt new conservation strategies that are implemented in a systematic and holistic way and to ensure that these are adaptive to growing economic interest in this marine area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Glass is found at archeological excavations in a variety of conditions ranging from pristine—where no deterioration is visible—to very heavily degraded. Although the chemical processes of glass deterioration have been extensively studied, they are not yet entirely understood, due in part to the numerous factors that must be considered, from the composition of the glass paste and its manufacture to the type of soil in which the glass is buried. In this study, we analyze an assemblage of Late Roman glass from the catacombs of Saint Lucy in eastern Sicily, in order to study the effects of this particular hypogeal environment on glass. The study regards the correlation between the weathered glass surfaces and the compositional changes occurred in the samples. Close attention is paid to optical observations of the outer layers of the glasses as manifestations of chemical deterioration of the bulk. The chemical analysis of the fragments of glass was carried out nondestructively using PIXE‐PIGE analyses without any sample preparation. Weathering was observed with an optical microscope. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This review highlights the scientific advances concerning the origins of human right‐handedness and language (speech and gestures). The comparative approach we adopted provides evidence that research on human and non‐human animals' behavioural asymmetries helps understand the processes that lead to the strong human left‐hemisphere specialisation. We review four major non‐mutually exclusive environmental factors that are likely to have shaped the evolution of human and non‐human primates' manual asymmetry: socioecological lifestyle, postural characteristics, task‐level complexity and tool use. We hypothesise the following scenario for the evolutionary origins of human right‐handedness: the right‐direction of modern humans' manual laterality would have emerged from our ecological (terrestrial) and social (multilevel system) lifestyle; then, it would have been strengthened by the gradual adoption of the bipedal stance associated with bipedal locomotion, and the increasing level of complexity of our daily tasks including bimanual coordinated actions and tool use. Although hemispheric functional lateralisation has been shaped through evolution, reports indicate that many factors and their mutual intertwinement can modulate human and non‐human primates' manual laterality throughout their life cycle: genetic and environmental factors, mainly individual sociodemographic characteristics (e.g., age, sex and rank), behavioural characteristics (e.g., gesture per se and gestural sensory modality) and context‐related characteristics (e.g., emotional context and position of target). These environmental (evolutionary and life cycle) factors could also have influenced primates' manual asymmetry indirectly through epigenetic modifications. All these findings led us to propose the hypothesis of a multicausal origin of human right‐handedness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: The Arabidopsis LEAFY (LFY) transcription factor is a key regulator of floral meristem emergence and identity. LFY interacts genetically and physically with UNUSUAL FLORAL ORGANS, a substrate adaptor of CULLIN1–RING ubiquitin ligase complexes (CRL1). The functionally redundant genes BLADE ON PETIOLE1 (BOP1) and ‐2 (BOP2) are potential candidates to regulate LFY activity and have recently been shown to be substrate adaptors of CULLIN3 (CUL3)–RING ubiquitin ligases (CRL3). We tested the hypothesis that LFY activity is controlled by BOPs and CUL3s in plants and that LFY is a substrate for ubiquitination by BOP‐containing CRL3 complexes. When constitutively expressed, LFY activity is fully dependent on BOP2 as well as on CUL3A and B to regulate target genes such as APETALA1 and to induce ectopic flower formation. We also show that LFY and BOP2 proteins interact physically and that LFY‐dependent ubiquitinated species are produced in vitro in a reconstituted cell‐free CRL3 system in the presence of LFY, BOP2 and CUL3. This new post‐translational regulation of LFY activity by CRL3 complexes makes it a unique transcription factor subjected to a positive dual regulation by both CRL1 and CRL3 complexes and suggests a novel mechanism for promoting flower development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For glioblastoma (GBM), current therapeutic approaches focus on the combination of several therapies, each of them individually approved for GBM or other tumor types. Many efforts are made to decipher the best sequence of treatments that would ultimately promote the most efficient tumor response. There is therefore a strong interest in developing new clinical in vivo imaging procedures that can rapidly detect treatment efficacy and allow individual modulation of the treatment. In this preclinical study, we propose to evaluate tumor tissue changes under combined therapies, tumor vascular normalization under antiangiogenic treatment followed by radiotherapy, using a voxel-based clustering approach. This approach was applied to a rat model of glioma (F98). Six MRI parameters were mapped: apparent diffusion coefficient, vessel wall permeability, cerebral blood volume fraction, cerebral blood flow, tissue oxygen saturation and vessel size index. We compared the classical region of interest (ROI)-based analysis with a cluster-based analysis. Five clusters, defined by their MRI features, were sufficient to characterize tumor progression and tumor changes during treatments. These results suggest that the cluster-based analysis was as efficient as the ROI-based analysis to assess tumor physiological changes during treatment, but also gave additional information regarding the voxels impacted by treatments and their localization within the tumor. Overall, cluster-based analysis appears to be a powerful tool for subtle monitoring of tumor changes during combined therapies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: In contrast to human adults, risk proneness in the gain domain is usually observed in both young children and non‐human primates. It is currently unclear what mechanism might be underlying such economic preferences. We investigated decision‐making under risk of gain in toddlers and monkeys. The choices of 2.5‐year‐old children and red‐capped mangabeys (Cercocebus torquatus torquatus) were examined in a gambling task for food reward in which participants have to choose between two options, a secure option and a risky option. In contrast to monkeys, toddlers showed a strong preference for the risky option over the safe option. In order to test the hypothesis that risky choices in participants reflect inhibitory control difficulties, toddlers and mangabeys were presented in Experiment 2 with a situation analogous to that used in Experiment 1 except for the fact that the opaque cover under which was placed the secure option was replaced by a transparent cover. In this second experiment, toddlers continued to show a preference for the risky option over the safe option. In contrast, mangabeys showed a preference for the safe option over the risky option in Trial 1 but they shifted their economic preferences in Trial 2. We argue that decision‐making strategies under risk of gain in both toddlers and mangabeys (a) do not reflect poor behavioral control and (b) are not reducible to perception‐action couplings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Under natural conditions bottlenose dolphins ( Tursiops truncatus) spend their time mostly feeding and then travelling, socializing, or resting. These activities are not randomly distributed, with feeding being higher in early morning and late afternoon. Social activities and vocal behavior seem to be very important in dolphin daily activity. This study aimed to describe the activity time-budget and its relation to vocal behavior for dolphins in a zoological park. We recorded behaviors and vocalizations of six dolphins over 2 months. All subjects performed more non-agonistic social interactions and play in the morning than in the afternoon. The different categories of vocalizations were distributed non-randomly throughout the day, with more chirps in the afternoon, when the animals were 'less social.' The most striking result was the strong correlation between activities and the categories of vocalizations produced. The results confirm the association between burst pulses and whistles with social activities, but also reveal that both are also associated with solitary play. More chirps were produced when dolphins were engaged in socio-sexual behaviors, emphasizing the need for further questioning about the function of this vocal category. This study reveals that: (i) in a group kept in zoological management, social activities are mostly present in the morning; and (ii) the acoustic signals produced by dolphins may give a reliable representation of their current activities. While more studies on the context of signal production are needed, our findings provide a useful tool for understanding free ranging dolphin behavior when they are not visible. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The polychromy of limestone and terracotta statues from Cyprus attributed to the sixth to fifth centuries bc is analysed using non- and micro-invasive techniques in order to shed light on the use of pigments during the studied period. The strengths and limitations of these methods for the present application are discussed. The identified pigments are iron-containing compounds (red, yellow, green earths and iron-manganese black). No copper-containing compounds were detected on the studied objects, despite the wide availability of copper minerals in Cyprus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

How nonhuman primates deal with birth, at the moment of delivery, and during the following days, remains poorly explored because of the unpredictability of this event, particularly for forest-dwelling arboreal species. Available studies highlight intra- and interspecific variation which suggest flexibility of the timing of delivery, of behavior associated with labor contractions and parturition, and the social context and ambient noise surrounding delivery. Here, we present the findings of a two-decade survey of reproduction in a population of captive Campbell's monkeys. Analysis of 34 births (with a female-biased sex ratio) showed that deliveries occurred systematically at night and more frequently during week-ends and in fall (September-November). This suggests the existence of both circadian and infradian biological rhythms. We present the first detailed description of a birth for this species and its short-term social consequences. In line with previous findings for other monkeys and apes, labor (estimated by unusual stretching postures) and parturition were rapid, and delivery occurred in a clear social and vocal context. During the following days, the new mother became the center of attention of for young (kin and non-kin) females and rose through the hierarchy. We discuss socio-ecological factors, notably captivity conditions and the high degree of tolerance in the species' social system, and confirm the existence of both 'rigidity' and 'flexibility' in the primates' adaptive reproductive strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Alouatta species utter the most powerful primate vocalizations in the Neotropics and are well-known for their loud and long-lasting male howling bouts. However, the diversity of acoustic structures used in these howling bouts, as well as in non-howling contexts, and the relative contribution of the different group members to the entire vocal repertoire, needed to be explored further. This report provides the first detailed description of the vocal repertoire of black howler monkeys ( Alouatta pigra), focusing on acoustic structures and contexts of emission of both loud and soft calls as well as on the contribution rate of males and females to the different call types. Three free-ranging social groups of black howler monkeys living in Palenque National Park, Mexico were monitored. We identified twelve acoustically discriminable call types, eight described previously and four described here for the first time. A few call types were systematically emitted either isolated or during howling bouts, but most of them could be heard in both calling contexts. Three call types were emitted only by females and two only by males. Adult males' call rates (for the seven shared call types) were higher than those of females but only when considering calls emitted within howling bouts. Our contextual analysis enabled us to divide call types into potential functional categories, according to their degree of contribution, to intra-group versus inter-group interactions and to neutral-positive versus negative situations. We then discussed how socio-ecological factors, notably sex differences in social behaviors, may explain the variability found in the vocal repertoire of this species and compared our findings with the literature on other primate species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies have shown that becoming a mother triggers important social changes within females, according to both social experience and infant characteristics, showing different maternal concerns. But how this impacts call usage has been far less studied. Based on 6 months of observations of five free-ranging groups of gray-cheeked mangabeys, we investigated variations in the production of three call types (contact, excitement, and alarm calls) in 29 females of different ages, dominance ranks, and infant rearing experiences: 15 females with infants of different ages and sexes, and 14 females without infants. We found that in females with infants-both maternal and infant characteristics influenced call production in a call type-dependent way. Females produced contact calls at a higher rate during the first month of infant age and after weaning when infants start to move away. Mothers of daughters produced more contact calls than mothers of sons. More excitement calls were recorded for first-time and young mothers and for females with young infants, while alarm call rates were not influenced by any of these factors. Increased mother-infant spatial separation enhanced only contact and excitement call rates. Finally, we found that females with infants vocalized much more than females without infants. Our results contribute to the current debate about the social factors responsible for the flexibility of call usage in nonhuman primates and open new lines for research on mothering behavior in forest-dwelling species. Am. J. Primatol. 78:983-991, 2016. © 2016 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and purpose Our objective was to evaluate the extent to which the 2005 recommendations of the European Federation of Neurological Sciences ( EFNS) on the multidisciplinary management of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ( ALS) are followed in clinical practice. Methods This was a multicentre observational study involving six French ALS referral centres receiving prevalent and incident cases. Recommendations were translated into ad hoc questions referring to key aspects of management, and their application was evaluated by a clinical research assistant who independently examined the medical charts ( MCs). When necessary, an independent board-certified neurologist answered the questions based on examination of the MC and interview of the caring neurologist. Questions regarding diagnosis and communication were put to patients in a self-administered questionnaire. Results In all, 376 patients [176 incident, 200 prevalent cases; median age at diagnosis 62.8 years (interquartile range 55.7-72.3); sex ratio 1.37; 27.3% bulbar onset] were included. All the topics covered in the recommendations were evaluated: diagnostic delay (e.g. mean 13.6 months, associated with age and onset); breaking the news (e.g. criteria for communication quality were satisfactory in more than 90%); multidisciplinary and sustained support (e.g. clinic visits were scheduled every 2-3 months in 90%). Also considered were whether riluzole had been offered, symptom management, genetic testing, ventilation, communication defects, enteral nutrition, palliative and end-of-life care. Characteristics associated with poor compliance with some guidelines (schedule of visits, delayed riluzole initiation) were also identified. Conclusion This is the first evaluation of the application of the EFNS recommendations for the management of ALS in a nationwide sample. The results allow us to highlight areas for improvement. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interest of pharmaceutical companies for complementary high-performance chromatographic tools to assess a product's purity or enhance this purity is on the rise. The high-throughput capability and economic benefits of supercritical fluid chromatography, but also the 'green' aspect of CO2 as the principal solvent, render supercritical fluid chromatography very attractive for a wide range of pharmaceutical applications. The recent reintroduction of new robust instruments dedicated to supercritical fluid chromatography and the progress in stationary phase technology have also greatly benefited supercritical fluid chromatography. Additionally, it was shown several times that supercritical fluid chromatography could be orthogonal to reversed-phase high-performance liquid chromatography and could efficiently compete with it. Supercritical fluid chromatography is an adequate tool for small molecules of pharmaceutical interest: synthetic intermediates, active pharmaceutical ingredients, impurities, or degradation products. In this review, we first discuss about general chromatographic conditions for supercritical fluid chromatography analysis to better suit compounds of pharmaceutical interest. We also discuss about the use of achiral and chiral supercritical fluid chromatography for analytical purposes and the recent applications in these areas. The use of preparative supercritical fluid chromatography by pharmaceutical companies is also covered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the ability of multiparametric MRI to identify the early effects of individual treatment, during combined chemo-radiotherapy on brain tumours. Eighty male rats bearing 9L gliosarcomas were randomized into four groups: untreated, anti-angiogenic therapy (SORA group), microbeam radiation therapy (MRT group) and both treatments (MRT+SORA group). Multiparametric MRI (tumour volume, diffusion-weighted MR imaging (ADC), blood volume fraction (BVf), microvessel index (VSI), vessel wall integrity (AUCP846) and tissue oxygen saturation (StO2)) was performed 1 day before and 2, 5 and 8 days after treatment initiation. Unpaired t-tests and one-way ANOVA were used for statistical analyses. Each MR parameter measured in our protocol was revealed to be sensitive to tumour changes induced by any of the therapies used (individually or combined). When compared with untreated tumours, SORA induced a decrease in BVf, VSI, StO2 and AUCP846, MRT generated an increase in ADC and AUCP846 and combined therapies yielded mixed effects: an increase in ADC and AUCP846 and a decrease in BVf, StO2 and AUCP846. MRT and MRT+SORA significantly slowed tumour growth. Despite these two groups presenting with similar tumour sizes, the information yielded from MR multiparameter assessment indicated that, when used concomitantly, each therapy induced distinguishable and appreciable physiological changes in the tumour. Our results suggest that multiparametric MRI can monitor the effects of individual treatments, used concomitantly, on brain tumours. Such monitoring would be useful for the detection of tumour resistance to drug/radiotherapy in patients undergoing concomitant therapies. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Twenty years ago, theoretical developments were initiated to model the behavior of the NMR transverse relaxation rates in presence of vessels. These developments enabled the MRI-based mapping of mean vessel diameter, microvascular density, and vessel size index with comparable results to those obtained by a pathologist. The transfer of these techniques to routine clinical use has been hindered by the unavailability of the required sequences, namely fast gradient-echo spin-echo sequences. Based on the increasing accessibility of such sequences on MRI scanners over recent years, we review the principles governing microvascular MRI, the validation studies, and the applications that have been tested worldwide by several teams. We also provide some recommendations on how to measure microvessel caliber and density with MRI. Magn Reson Med 73:325-341, 2015. © 2014 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to compare magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and histological estimates of the mean vessel diameter (mVD), the vessel density (Density), and the vessel size index (VSI) obtained in the same tumor-bearing animals. Twenty-seven rats bearing intracranial glioma (C6 or RG2) were imaged by MRI. Changes in transverse relaxations (Δ R [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vessel size index (VSI), a parameter related to the distribution of vessel diameters, may be estimated using two MRI approaches: (i) dynamic susceptibility contrast (DSC) MRI following the injection of a bolus of Gd-chelate. This technique is routinely applied in the clinic to assess intracranial tissue perfusion in patients; (ii) steady-state susceptibility contrast with USPIO contrast agents, which is considered here as the standard method. Such agents are not available for human yet and the steady-state approach is currently limited to animal studies. The aim is to compare VSI estimates obtained with these two approaches on rats bearing C6 glioma (n = 7). In a first session, VSI was estimated from two consecutive injections of Gd-Chelate (Gd1 and Gd2). In a second session (4 hours later), VSI was estimated using USPIO. Our findings indicate that both approaches yield comparable VSI estimates both in contralateral (VSI{USPIO} = 7.5 ± 2.0 µm, VSI{Gd1} = 6.5 ± 0.7 µm) and in brain tumour tissues (VSI{USPIO} = 19.4 ± 7.1 µm, VSI{Gd1} = 16.6 ± 4.5 µm). We also observed that, in the presence of BBB leakage (as it occurs typically in brain tumours), applying a preload of Gd-chelate improves the VSI estimate with the DSC approach both in contralateral (VSI{Gd2} = 7.1 ± 0.4 µm) and in brain tumour tissues (VSI{Gd2} = 18.5 ± 4.3 µm) but is not mandatory. VSI estimates do not appear to be sensitive to T1 changes related to Gd extravasation. These results suggest that robust VSI estimates may be obtained in patients at 3 T or higher magnetic fields with the DSC approach. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although vocal production is strongly genetically determined in nonhuman primates, vocal usage is more likely to be influenced by experience. Nonetheless, sex differences in both production and usage can be found in the vocal repertoire of adults, but little attention has been paid to their ontogeny. Here, we provide the first comprehensive analysis of the vocal repertoire of De Brazza's monkeys ( Cercopithecus neglectus), with particular attention to age- and sex-specific patterns. This species has special interest because it is the only monogamous species of guenons, but it nevertheless shares the strong sexual morphological and behavioral dimorphism seen in other guenons. A structurally based classification of calls recorded in 23 captive individuals has been cross-validated by an analysis of the associated contexts of emission. We identified sound units that could be uttered alone or concatenated to form 10 call types, including only three types shared by all age-sex-classes. Both age- and sex-discrepancy in terms of phonation could be explained by maturational changes and morphological dimorphism. In general, call production and usage parallel those seen in other guenons, suggesting that phylogeny and sexual dimorphism play important roles in vocal communication in this species. However, the boundary between adult male and female vocal repertoires appeared to be less strict than previously reported, suggesting that both sexes have the capacity to produce calls of the other sex but that social roles may constrain this expression. Similarly, age-specific vocal patterns would reflect respective social roles, and experience to some extent. Finally, calling rates would reflect age-/sex-specific degree of involvement in intragroup social networks. These findings highlight the relative importance of phylogeny, morphology, and social system on the shaping of individual repertoires in nonhuman primates. Am. J. Primatol. 74:12-28, 2012. © 2011 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Early imaging or blood biomarkers of tumor response is needed to customize anti-tumor therapy on an individual basis. This study evaluates the sensitivity and relevance of five potential MRI biomarkers. Sixty nude rats were implanted with human glioma cells (U-87 MG) and randomized into three groups: one group received an anti-angiogenic treatment (Sorafenib), a second a cytotoxic drug [1,3-bis(2-chloroethyl)-1-nitrosourea, BCNU (Carmustine)] and a third no treatment. The tumor volume, apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) of water, blood volume fraction (BVf), microvessel diameter (vessel size index, VSI) and vessel wall integrity (contrast enhancement, CE) were monitored before and during treatment. Sorafenib reduced tumor CE as early as 1 day after treatment onset. By 4 days after treatment onset, tumor BVf was reduced and tumor VSI was increased. By 14 days after treatment onset, ADC was increased and the tumor growth rate was reduced. With BCNU, ADC was increased and the tumor growth rate was reduced 14 days after treatment onset. Thus, the estimated MRI parameters were sensitive to treatment at different times after treatment onset and in a treatment-dependent manner. This study suggests that multiparametric MR monitoring could allow the assessment of new anti-tumor drugs and the optimization of combined therapies. Copyright © 2010 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. Multiparametric MRI reveals that both tumor microvasculature and cellularity are altered by anti-angiogenic and cytotoxic therapy. Multiparametric MRI thus has strong potential for the evaluation of the effect of new drugs on brain tumors. In addition, multiparametric MRI could contribute towards an understanding of the mechanisms of action of anti-angiogenic therapies and the optimization of therapeutic combinations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sex differences in the vocal behavior of nonhuman primates can take various forms: sex-specific call types, differential production of shared call types, or sex discrepancy in phonation. Also, a growing literature is evidencing that systematically analyzing the vocal repertoires of primates at the call level might lead to underestimating their communicative abilities. Here, we present an extensive multi-level analysis of the still unknown vocal repertoire of adult red-capped mangabeys (Cercocebus torquatus), with a special emphasis on sex differences. We collected recordings from seven adult males and seven adult females housed in captivity. We present a structurally-based classification of mangabey calls that we cross-validated by an analysis of the associated contexts of emission. We found 12 sound units (including six sex-specific) that were concatenated to form eight call types (including four sex-specific), which were produced either singularly or in sequences composed of one (“repetition”) or several (“combination”) call types. We extracted organizational principles that ruled call composition and calling patterns. This revealed a high degree of potentially meaningful variability in terms of semantics and syntax. Male–female discrepancy in terms of phonation could be related to morphological dimorphism and would enable listeners to behave appropriately according to the sex of the caller. Sex differences in repertoire size, structural gradation, and call usage could reflect specificities of male–female social roles. We discuss the pertinence of these sex differences according to social system and habitat quality. Am. J. Primatol. 72:360–375, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To monitor the prevalence of hepatitis B and hepatitis C a cross-sectional survey was conducted in 2004 among French metropolitan residents. A complex sampling design was used to enroll 14,416 adult participants aged 18-80 years. Data collected included demographic and social characteristics and risk factors. Sera were tested for anti-HCV, HCV-RNA, anti-HBc and HBsAg. Data were analyzed with SUDAAN® software to provide weighted estimates for the French metropolitan resident population. The overall anti-HCV prevalence was 0.84% (95% CI: 0.65-1.10). Among anti-HCV positive individuals, 57.4% (95% CI: 43.2-70.5) knew their status. Factors associated independently with positive anti-HCV were drug use (intravenous and nasal), blood transfusion before 1992, a history of tattoos, low socioeconomic status, being born in a country where anti-HCV prevalence >2.5%, and age >29 years. The overall anti-HBc prevalence was 7.3% (95%: 6.5-8.2). Independent risk factors for anti-HBc were intravenous drug use, being a man who has sex with men, low socioeconomic status, a stay in a psychiatric facility or facility for the mentally disabled, <12 years of education, being born in a country where HBsAg prevalence >2%, age >29 and male sex. The HCV RNA and HBsAg prevalence were 0.53% (95% CI: 0.40-0.70) and 0.65% (95% CI: 0.45-0.93), respectively. Among HBsAg positive individuals, 44.8% (95% CI: 22.8-69.1) knew their status. Anti-HCV prevalence was close to the 1990s estimates whereas HBsAg prevalence estimate was greater than expected. Screening of hepatitis B and C should be strengthened and should account for social vulnerability. J. Med. Virol. 82:546-555, 2010. © 2010 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Cosmetic Science is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Assessment of angiogenesis may help to determine tumor grade and therapy follow-up. In vivo imaging methods for non-invasively monitoring microvasculature evolution are therefore of major interest for tumor management. MRI evaluation of blood volume fraction (BVf) and vessel size index (VSI) was applied to assess the evolution of tumor microvasculature in two rat models of glioma (C6 and RG2). The results show that repeated MRI of BVf and VSI - which involves repeated injection of an iron-based MR contrast agent - does not affect either the physiological status of the animals or the accuracy of the MR estimates of the microvascular parameters. The MR measurements were found to correlate well with those obtained from histology. They indicate that microvascular evolution differs significantly between the two glioma models, in good agreement with expression of angiogenic factors (vascular endothelial growth factor, angiopoietin-2) and with activities of matrix metalloproteinases, also assessed in this study. These MRI methods thus provide considerable potential for assessing the response of gliomas to anti-angiogenic and anti-vascular agents, in preclinical studies as well as in the clinic. Furthermore, as differences between the fate of tumor microvasculature may underlie differences in therapeutic response, there is a need for preclinical study of several tumor models. Copyright © 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diagnosis: Lymphoblastic lymphoma The histologic examination of the frontal lesion revealed a massive blast cell infiltration over the entire height of the sample. The differential diagnosis of B-LBL includes other lymphoid malignant neoplasms (diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, blastoid mantle cell lymphoma, and Burkitt lymphoma), as well as small blue-cell tumors involving the skin such as Ewing sarcoma. Tumor cells are negative for Bcl-6 in LBL, whereas they are positive for Bcl-6 in Burkitt lymphoma; Bcl-2 and TdT are negative in Burkitt lymphoma. [Extracted from the article]

A study group of Campbell's monkeys (Cercopithecus c. campbelli) provided data on affiliative and agonistic relationships between females. Over a period of two years (involving 111 hr), we conducted observations of a captive group which had a composition similar to wild groups. We were able to identify a monitor-adjust social system with frequent affiliative interactions, directed gazing and avoidances rather than aggressive acts. We described long-term differentiated affiliative bonds: adult females interacting more often with some group mates than others, especially if they were relatives. Interactions between matrilines concerned essentially play and young adult females. We found a significant linear hierarchy of dominance with rare reversals and a stable intermatriline dominance. In contrast to other single-male groups, our adult male was socially integrated into the group although this may have been because of the housing conditions. Comparisons with the social organization of other captive and wild guenon groups are discussed. Am. J. Primatol. 68:1161–1170, 2006. © 2006 Wiley-Liss, Inc. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of International Journal of Cosmetic Science is the property of Wiley-Blackwell and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Gougerot–Sjögren syndrome (GSS) is a chronic heterogeneous non-organ-specific autoimmune disease, encompassing a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations. It is characterized by a lymphocytic infiltration of the exocrine glands, also called epitheliitis, resulting in xerostomia and keratoconjunctivitis sicca. The skin can also be involved; for example, xerosis is a consequence of epitheliitis. Dermatological consequences of polyclonal reactivity are vasculitis and manifestations of B-cell proliferation vary from plasma cell infiltrates to B-cell lymphoma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A questionnaire, specially designed to measure the mood change was filled in by 359 women at their arrival in different hair-salons and after having received various hair care services. The results show that hair treatments increase all the positive dimensions of mood and decrease all the negative ones. Only the improvement in sociability appears to be linked to age. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Variation at nine microsatellite loci was investigated to understand how Anopheles arabiensis populations survive the dry season in the sahelian region of Senegal. Low estimates of genetic differentiation (FST = 0.012, RST = 0.009) between two populations, 250 km apart, suggested extensive gene flow across this distance. Despite extreme seasonal fluctuation in abundance with dry season minima in which mosquitoes virtually disappeared, allele frequencies remained stable over time in the village of Barkedji from August 1994 to December 1997 (including four rainy seasons and three dry seasons). The effective population size (Ne) was estimated to be 601 with 95% CI (281, 1592), providing strong evidence against annual bottlenecks. Differences in measures of genetic diversity and linkage disequilibrium between the dry and the rainy seasons were not detected. These results suggest that despite extreme minima in local density, An. arabiensis maintains large permanent deme spread out over large area. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study on the use of photodynamic therapy for treating lentigo maligna which is an intra-epidermic melanoma. It is mentioned that using photodynamic therapy with 5-aminolevuliniv acid leads to lysis to human melanocytes which is confirmed with the use of transgenic mice. It is mentioned that single-centre and retrospective study was performed.

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses the present of putative stem cells in Merkel cell carcinomas.

A letter to the editor is presented which discusses a study that shows the characteristics of a new autosomal-dominant phenotype of familial carcinoma.