We show that the processes of ovarian development in queens have

We show that the processes of ovarian development in queens have been highly conserved relative to the fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster. We also identify specific steps

during oogenesis and embryogenesis in which ovarian and germ cell development have been evolutionarily modified in the workers. These modifications, which we call ‘reproductive constraints’, are often assumed to represent neutral degenerations that are a consequence of social evolutionary forces. Based on our developmental and functional analysis of these constraints, however, we propose and discuss the alternative hypothesis that reproductive constraints represent adaptive mTOR inhibitor proximate mechanisms or traits for maintaining social harmony in ants. We apply a multi-level selection framework to help understand the role of these constraints in ant social evolution. A complete understanding of how cooperation, conflict and developmental systems evolve in social groups requires a ‘socio-evo-devo’ approach that integrates social evolutionary and developmental biology.”
“Mycophenolate mofetil (MMF) is used to treat acute and chronic graft versus host disease (GvHD).

There is scant evidence in the literature about mycophenolic acid (MPA) trough level monitoring in GvHD. We therefore reviewed 32 patients treated GDC-0941 in vivo with MMF for acute (n = 19) or chronic GvHD (n = 13). Twelve (63%) of 19 patients with acute GvHD and nine (69%) of 13 with chronic GvHD showed a good response. In all 21 patients who responded to MMF, their mean total MPA levels were therapeutic (1-3.5 mg/L), whereas five of 11 patients who did not respond had sub-therapeutic mean MPA levels (p = 0.002). Sixteen (66%) of 24 steroid refractory or dependent patients responded to MMF. Associations between the mean total MPA level for each patient and the corresponding mean serum albumin concentration showed therapeutic mean total MPA levels for all 23 patients with mean albumin >= 31 g/L but sub-therapeutic mean total MPA levels in five of nine patients with mean albumin < 31 g/L (p = 0.0006). In conclusion, MMF is efficacious Birinapant order in steroid refractory

and dependent acute or chronic GvHD with statistically significant correlation between therapeutic plasma total MPA trough levels and clinical response. Serum albumin levels should be taken into account when considering MMF dose adjustments.”
“While the enhancement of light extraction efficiency from microstructured InGaN light-emitting diodes (mu LED) has been firmly established, there is concern over the effect of microstructuring on the device lifetimes. A study on the electrical characteristics and reliability of mu LED arrays has been carried out. Despite improved optical performance, expanded device sidewalls served to accelerate the rate of optical degradation, adversely affect the lifetimes of devices.

Comments are closed.