bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Altruism, Noise, and the Paradox of Voter Turnout: An Experimental Study
Authors: Tulman Sarah A.
Published: September 2015

This paper addresses the paradox of voter turnout, wherein observed voting participation rates are far greater than what rational choice theory would predict. Voters face multiple voting choices, stochastic voting costs, and candidates offering different economic platforms. A combination of two approaches attempts to resolve this paradox: quantal response equilibrium (QRE) analysis, which introduces noise into the decision-making process, and the possibility of ethical (altruism-motivated) voting. A series of laboratory experiments empirically tests the predictions of the resulting model. Participants in the experiments are also given opportunities for communicating online with their immediate neighbors, in order to enhance the chances that subjects would realize the possibility of ethical voting. The results show that ethical voting occurs but gains momentum only in the presence of a vocal advocate and even then it mostly dissipated by the second half of the session. The QRE-based model was able to explain some but not all of the overvoting that was observed, relative to the Nash equilibrium prediction. There is evidence to suggest that communication via the chat feature generated some of the voting and also some of the ethical voting.
Nailfold Capillaroscopy in Rheumatic Diseases: Which Parameters Should Be Evaluated?
Authors: Etehad Tavakol Mahnaz , Fatemi Alimohammad , Karbalaie Abdolamir , Emrani Zahra , Erlandsson Björn-Erik
Published: September 2015

Video nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC), considered as an extension of the widefield technique, allows a more accurate measuring and storing of capillary data and a better defining, analyzing, and quantifying of capillary abnormalities. Capillaroscopic study is often performed on the patients suspected of having microcirculation problems such as Raynaud’s phenomenon as the main indication for nailfold capillaroscopy. Capillaroscopic findings based on microcirculation studies can provide useful information in the fields of pathophysiology, differential diagnosis, and monitoring therapy. Nailfold capillaroscopy provides a vital assessment in clinical practices and research; for example, its reputation in the early diagnosis of systemic sclerosis is well established and it is also used as a classification criterion in this regard. This review focuses on the manner of performing video nailfold capillaroscopy and on a common approach for measuring capillary dimensions in fingers and toes.
The Steiner Formula and the Polar Moment of Inertia for the Closed Planar Homothetic Motions in Complex Plane
Authors: Tutar Ayhan , Sener Onder
Published: September 2015

The Steiner area formula and the polar moment of inertia were expressed during one-parameter closed planar homothetic motions in complex plane. The Steiner point or Steiner normal concepts were described according to whether rotation number was different from zero or equal to zero, respectively. The moving pole point was given with its components and its relation between Steiner point or Steiner normal was specified. The sagittal motion of a winch was considered as an example. This motion was described by a double hinge consisting of the fixed control panel of winch and the moving arm of winch. The results obtained in the second section of this study were applied for this motion.
CCR 20th Anniversary Commentary: Triple-Negative Breast Cancer in 2015—Still in the Ballpark
Authors: Narod Steven A. , Dent Rebecca A. , Foulkes William D.
Published: September 2015

The research article by Dent and colleagues, which was published in the August 1, 2007, issue of Clinical Cancer Research, provided a clinical description of metastatic progression of triple-negative breast cancers. Finding successful treatment strategies for women with triple-negative breast cancer remains a challenge. Clin Cancer Res; 21(17); 3813–4. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Dent et al., Clin Cancer Res 2007;13(15) August 1, 2007;4429–34
Clinical and Translational Results of a Phase II, Randomized Trial of an Anti–IGF-1R (Cixutumumab) in Women with Breast Cancer That Progressed on Endocrine Therapy
Authors: Gradishar William J. , Yardley Denise A. , Layman Rachel , Sparano Joseph A. , Chuang Ellen , Northfelt Donald W. , Schwartz Gary N. , Youssoufian Hagop , Tang Shande , Novosiadly Ruslan , Forest Amelie , Nguyen Tuan S. , Cosaert Jan , Grebennik Dmitri , Haluska Paul
Published: September 2015

Purpose: This phase II trial evaluated the efficacy and safety of cixutumumab, a human anti–insulin-like growth factor receptor 1 (IGF-1R) monoclonal IgG1 antibody, and explored potential biomarkers in postmenopausal women with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer.

Experimental Design: Patients with hormone receptor–positive breast cancer that progressed on antiestrogen therapy received (2:1 randomization) cixutumumab 10 mg/kg and the same antiestrogen (arm A) or cixutumumab alone (arm B) every 2 weeks (q2w). Primary endpoint was progression-free survival (PFS); secondary endpoints included overall survival (OS) and safety. Correlative analyses of IGF-1R, total insulin receptor (IR), and IR isoforms A (IR-A) and B (IR-B) expression in tumor tissue were explored.

Results: Ninety-three patients were randomized (arm A, n = 62; arm B, n = 31). Median PFS was 2.0 and 3.1 months for arm A and arm B, respectively. Secondary efficacy measures were similar between the arms. Overall, cixutumumab was well tolerated. IGF-1R expression was not associated with clinical outcomes. Regardless of the treatment, lower IR-A, IR-B, and total IR mRNA expression in tumor tissue was significantly associated with longer PFS [IR-A: HR, 2.62 (P = 0.0062); IR-B: HR, 2.21 (P = 0.0202); and total IR: HR, 2.18 (P = 0.0230)] and OS [IR-A: HR, 2.94 (P = 0.0156); IR-B: HR, 2.69 (P = 0.0245); and total IR: HR, 2.72 (P = 0.0231)].

Conclusions: Cixutumumab (10 mg/kg) with or without antiestrogen q2w had an acceptable safety profile, but no significant clinical efficacy. Patients with low total IR, IR-A, and IR-B mRNA expression levels had significantly longer PFS and OS, independent of the treatment. The prognostic or predictive value of IR as a biomarker for IGF-1R–targeted therapies requires further validation. Clin Cancer Res; 22(2); 301–9. ©2015 AACR.
FDA Approval: Palbociclib for the Treatment of Postmenopausal Patients with Estrogen Receptor–Positive, HER2-Negative Metastatic Breast Cancer
Authors: Beaver Julia A. , Amiri-Kordestani Laleh , Charlab Rosane , Chen Wei , Palmby Todd , Tilley Amy , Zirkelbach Jeanne Fourie , Yu Jingyu , Liu Qi , Zhao Liang , Crich Joyce , Chen Xiao Hong , Hughes Minerva , Bloomquist Erik , Tang Shenghui , Sridhara Rajeshwari , Kluetz Paul G. , Kim Geoffrey , Ibrahim Amna , Pazdur Richard , Cortazar Patricia
Published: September 2015

On February 3, 2015, the FDA granted accelerated approval to palbociclib (IBRANCE, Pfizer Inc.), an inhibitor of cyclin-dependent kinases 4 and 6 (CDK4 and CDK6), for use in combination with letrozole for the treatment of postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor (ER)–positive, HER2-negative advanced breast cancer as initial endocrine-based therapy for their metastatic disease. The approval is based on a randomized, multicenter, open-label phase I/II trial (PALOMA-1) in 165 patients randomized to palbociclib (125 mg orally daily for 21 consecutive days, followed by 7 days off treatment) plus letrozole (2.5 mg orally daily) or letrozole alone. The phase II portion of the trial was divided into two cohorts: cohort 1 enrolled 66 biomarker-unselected patients and cohort 2 enrolled 99 biomarker-positive patients. The major efficacy outcome measure was investigator-assessed progression-free survival (PFS). A large magnitude of improvement in PFS was observed in patients receiving palbociclib plus letrozole compared with patients receiving letrozole alone (HR, 0.488; 95% confidence interval, 0.319–0.748). Multiple sensitivity analyses were supportive of clinical benefit. The most common adverse reaction in patients receiving palbociclib plus letrozole was neutropenia. This article summarizes the FDA thought process and data supporting accelerated approval based on PALOMA-1 that may be contingent upon verification and description of clinical benefit in the ongoing and fully accrued confirmatory trial PALOMA-2. Clin Cancer Res; 21(21); 4760–6. ©2015 AACR.
FDA Approval Summary: Lenvatinib for Progressive, Radio-iodine–Refractory Differentiated Thyroid Cancer
Authors: Nair Abhilasha , Lemery Steven J. , Yang Jun , Marathe Anshu , Zhao Liang , Zhao Hong , Jiang Xiaoping , He Kun , Ladouceur Gaetan , Mitra Amit K. , Zhou Liang , Fox Emily , Aungst Stephanie , Helms Whitney , Keegan Patricia , Pazdur Richard
Published: September 2015

The FDA approved lenvatinib (Lenvima, Eisai Inc.) for the treatment of patients with locally recurrent or metastatic, progressive, radioactive iodine-refractory (RAI-refractory) differentiated thyroid cancer (DTC). In an international, multicenter, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial (E7080-G000-303), 392 patients with locally recurrent or metastatic RAI-refractory DTC and radiographic evidence of disease progression within 12 months prior to randomization were randomly allocated (2:1) to receive either lenvatinib 24 mg orally per day (n = 261) or matching placebo (n = 131) with the option for patients on the placebo arm to receive lenvatinib following independent radiologic confirmation of disease progression. A statistically significant prolongation of progression-free survival (PFS) as determined by independent radiology review was demonstrated [HR, 0.21; 95% confidence interval (CI), 0.16–0.28; P < 0.001, stratified log-rank test], with an estimated median PFS of 18.3 months (95% CI, 15.1, NR) in the lenvatinib arm and 3.6 months (95% CI, 2.2–3.7) in the placebo arm. The most common adverse reactions, in order of decreasing frequency, observed in the lenvatinib-treated patients were hypertension, fatigue, diarrhea, arthralgia/myalgia, decreased appetite, decreased weight, nausea, stomatitis, headache, vomiting, proteinuria, palmar-plantar erythrodysesthesia syndrome, abdominal pain, and dysphonia. Adverse reactions led to dose reductions in 68% of patients receiving lenvatinib at the 24 mg dose and 18% of patients discontinued lenvatinib for adverse reactions leading to residual uncertainty regarding the optimal dose of lenvatinib. Clin Cancer Res; 21(23); 5205–8. ©2015 AACR.
In Vivo Regulation of Colonic Cell Proliferation, Differentiation, Apoptosis, and P27Kip1 by Dietary Fish Oil and Butyrate in Rats
Authors: Hong Mee Young , Turner Nancy D. , Murphy Mary E. , Carroll Raymond J. , Chapkin Robert S. , Lupton Joanne R.
Published: September 2015

We have shown that dietary fish oil is protective against experimentally induced colon cancer, and the protective effect is enhanced by coadministration of pectin. However, the underlying mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. We hypothesized that fish oil with butyrate, a pectin fermentation product, protects against colon cancer initiation by decreasing cell proliferation and increasing differentiation and apoptosis through a p27Kip1-mediated mechanism. Rats were provided diets of corn or fish oil, with/without butyrate, and terminated 12, 24, or 48 hours after azoxymethane (AOM) injection. Proliferation (Ki-67), differentiation (Dolichos Biflorus Agglutinin), apoptosis (TUNEL), and p27Kip1 (cell-cycle mediator) were measured in the same cell within crypts in order to examine the coordination of cell cycle as a function of diet. DNA damage (N7-methylguanine) was determined by quantitative IHC analysis. Dietary fish oil decreased DNA damage by 19% (P = 0.001) and proliferation by 50% (P = 0.003) and increased differentiation by 56% (P = 0.039) compared with corn oil. When combined with butyrate, fish oil enhanced apoptosis 24 hours after AOM injection compared with a corn oil/butyrate diet (P = 0.039). There was an inverse relationship between crypt height and apoptosis in the fish oil/butyrate group (r = −0.53, P = 0.040). The corn oil/butyrate group showed a positive correlation between p27Kip1 expression and proliferation (r = 0.61, P = 0.035). These results indicate the in vivo effect of butyrate on apoptosis and proliferation is dependent on dietary lipid source. These results demonstrate the presence of an early coordinated colonocyte response by which fish oil and butyrate protects against colon tumorigenesis. Cancer Prev Res; 8(11); 1076–83. ©2015 AACR.
Cryptococcus Neoformans Infection and Immune Cell Regulation in Human Monocytes
Authors: Chen Sunxiao , Yan Hongli , Zhang Lei , Kong Wei , Sun Yi , Zhang Weiwei , Chen Yan , Deng Anmei
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: Cryptococcus neoformans infections are becoming increasingly prevalent and remain a life-threatening clinical issue in immune-compromised hosts. The microorganism evades a variety of endogenous anti-fungal mechanims of host immune cells. The signaling pathways in human immune cells that become activated in response to Cryptococcus neoformans infection have yet to be fully characterized. Methods: Human monocytes were incubated with Cryptococcus neoformans, and the whole transcriptome of monocytes was sequenced before and after exposure to Cryptococcus neoformans using mass parallel sequencing techniques. Based on the genes that demonstrated altered expression patterns, we performed GO and KEGG enrichment analysis to further characterize the pathways involved in monocyte activation by Cryptococcus neoformans. Results: We found that immune and inflammatory responses, as well as chemotaxis, were the most heavily activated cellular events. Specifically, the toll-like receptor, tumor necrosis factor, NF-kB and Jak-STAT pathways were the most active pathways in response to Cryptococcus neoformans infection. The sequencing data of selected genes from the transcriptome analysis were further validated by real-time polymerase chain reactions. Conclusion: Taken together, our study is the first characterization of the transcriptome alterations in human immune cells upon C. neoformans infection, providing additional information that may be helpful in discovering novel anti-fungal targets.
Activation of PKA/CREB Signaling is Involved in BMP9-Induced Osteogenic Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Zhang Hongyu , Li Li , Dong Qian , Wang Yufeng , Feng Qiaoling , Ou Xinying , Zhou Pengfei , He Tongchuan , Luo Jinyong
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: BMP9 is highly capable of promoting osteogenic differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) although the molecular mechanism involved is largely unknown. Here, we explored the detail role of PKA/CREB signaling in BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation. Methods: Activation status of PKA/CREB signaling is assessed by nonradioactive assay and Western blot. Using PKA inhibitors and a dominant negative protein of CREB (A-CREB), we investigated the effect of PKA/CREB signaling on BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation. Results: We found that BMP9 promotes PKA activity and enhances CREB phosphorylation in MSCs. BMP9 is shown to down-regulate protein kinase A inhibitor γ (PKIγ) expression. We demonstrated that PKA inhibitors suppress BMP9-induced early osteogenic marker alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity in MSCs as well as late osteogenic markers osteopontin (OPN), osteocalcin (OCN) and matrix mineralization. We found that PKA inhibitor reduces BMP9-induced Runx2 activation and p38 phosphorylation in MSCs. Lastly, interference of CREB function by A-CREB decreased BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation as well. Conclusion: Our results revealed that BMP9 may activate PKA/CREB signaling in MSCs through suppression of PKIγ expression. It is noteworthy that inhibition of PKA/CREB signaling may impair BMP9-induced osteogenic differentiation of MSCs, implying that activation of PKA/CREB signaling is required for BMP9 osteoinductive activity.
Ghrelin Attenuated Lipotoxicity via Autophagy Induction and Nuclear Factor-κB Inhibition
Authors: Mao Yuqing , Cheng Jian , Yu Fujun , Li Huanqing , Guo Chuanyong , Fan Xiaoming
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common chronic liver disease worldwide. Autophagy is associated with NAFLD. Ghrelin is a gut hormone with various functions including energy metabolism and inflammation inhibition. We investigated the therapeutic effect of ghrelin on NAFLD and its association with autophagy. Methods: C57bl/6 mice were fed a high-fat diet for 8 weeks to induce a model of chronic NAFLD, with ghrelin (10 µg/kg) administrated subcutaneously twice weekly from weeks 6 to 8. LO2 cells were pretreated with ghrelin (10-8 M) before stimulation with free fatty acid (palmitic and oleic acids; 1 mM). Lipid droplets were identified by hematoxylin and eosin and Red O staining and quantified by triglyceride test kits. LC3I/II, an important biomarker protein of autophagy was detected by western blotting, real-time polymerase chain reaction, immunohistochemistry and immunofluorescence. Tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-a and interleukin (IL)-6 were detected by ELISA and immunohistochemistry. Nuclear factor (NF)-κB p65 was detected by western blotting and immunofluorescence. AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) were detected by western blotting. Results: Ghrelin reduced the triglyceride content in high fat diet (HFD) group in vivo and free fatty acid (FFA) group in vitro. TNF-a and IL-6 were significantly reduced in the ghrelin-treated mice compared with the control group. Autophagy induction was accompanied with intracellular lipid reduction in ghrelin-treated mice. Ghrelin upregulated autophagy via AMPK/mTOR restoration and inhibited translocation of NF-κB into the nucleus. Conclusions: The results indicate that ghrelin attenuates lipotoxicity by autophagy stimulation and NF-κB inhibition.
The Role of MCPIP1 in Ischemia/Reperfusion Injury-Induced HUVEC Migration and Apoptosis
Authors: Zhu Tiebing , Yao Qi , Hu Xiaonan , Chen Chen , Yao Honghong , Chao Jie
Published: September 2015

Background/Aims: Monocyte chemotactic protein-induced protein 1 (MCPIP1) plays a crucial role in various cellular processes, including neurogenesis. However, the relationship between MCPIP1 and myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury remained illdefined. In this study, we explored whether the I/R-mediated up-regulation of MCPIP1 is critical in the modulation of both cell migration and apoptosis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). Methods: Using Western blot analysis and quantitative real-time PCR, the protein expression and mRNA transcription, respectively, of MCPIP1 was detected in HUVECs. To investigate cell migration, an in vitro scratch assay and a nested matrix model were applied. Results: I/R increased the expression of MCPIP1 via the activation of the mitogen-activated protein kinase (MAPK) and PI3K/Akt pathways. I/R increased migration and apoptosis of HUVECs, which were significantly inhibited by MCPIP1 siRNA. Conclusion: These findings suggest that I/R-mediated up-regulation of MCPIP1 regulates migration and apoptosis in HUVECs. Understanding the regulation of MCPIP1 expression and function may aid in the development of an adjunct therapeutic strategy in the treatment of individuals with I/R injury.
Approximation of Corrected Calcium Concentrations in Advanced Chronic Kidney Disease Patients with or without Dialysis Therapy
Authors: Kaku Yoshio , Ookawara Susumu , Miyazawa Haruhisa , Ito Kiyonori , Ueda Yuichiro , Hirai Keiji , Hoshino Taro , Mori Honami , Yoshida Izumi , Morishita Yoshiyuki , Tabei Kaoru
Published: September 2015

Background: The following calcium (Ca) correction formula (Payne) is conventionally used for serum Ca estimation: corrected total Ca (TCa) (mg/dl) = TCa (mg/dl) + [4 - albumin (g/dl)]; however, it is inapplicable to advanced chronic kidney disease (CKD) patients. Methods: 1,922 samples in CKD G4 + G5 patients and 341 samples in CKD G5D patients were collected. Levels of TCa (mg/day), ionized Ca2+ (iCa2+) (mmol/l) and other clinical parameters were measured. We assumed the corrected TCa to be equal to eight times the iCa2+ value (measured corrected TCa). We subsequently performed stepwise multiple linear regression analysis using the clinical parameters. Results: The following formula was devised from multiple linear regression analysis. For CKD G4 + G5 patients: approximated corrected TCa (mg/dl) = TCa + 0.25 × (4 - albumin) + 4 × (7.4 - pH) + 0.1 × (6 - P) + 0.22. For CKD G5D patients: approximated corrected TCa (mg/dl) = TCa + 0.25 × (4 - albumin) + 0.1 × (6 - P) + 0.05 × (24 - HCO3-) + 0.35. Receiver operating characteristic analysis showed the high values of the area under the curve of approximated corrected TCa for the detection of measured corrected TCa ≥8.4 mg/dl and ≤10.4 mg/dl for each CKD sample. Both intraclass correlation coefficients for each CKD sample demonstrated superior agreement using the new formula compared to the previously reported formulas. Conclusion: Compared to other formulas, the approximated corrected TCa values calculated from the new formula for patients with CKD G4 + G5 and CKD G5D demonstrates superior agreement with the measured corrected TCa.
Report of Three Novel Germline CYLD Mutations in Unrelated Patients with Brooke-Spiegler Syndrome, Including Classic Phenotype, Multiple Familial Trichoepitheliomas and Malignant Transformation
Authors: Tantcheva-Poór Iliana , Vanecek Tomas , Lurati Massimo C.R. , Rychly Boris , Kempf Werner , Michal Michal , Kazakov Dmitry V.
Published: September 2015

Brooke-Spiegler syndrome is a rare autosomal-dominant genetic disorder characterized by multiple adnexal tumors, including cylindromas, spiradenomas, spiradenocylindromas and trichoepitheliomas. It is caused by germline CYLD mutations commonly leading to a premature stop codon. We here report on 3 novel CYLD mutations in 3 unrelated BSS patients, including the classic phenotype, multiple familial trichoepitheliomas phenotype and malignant transformation. These included c.1821_1826+1delinsCT/L607Ffs*9, c.2666A>T/p.D889V and c.2712delT/p.905Kfs*8. By extending the spectrum of CYLD mutations, better understanding of the molecular mechanisms of BSS can be gained, which might later assist in finding new treatment options.
Molecular Mechanisms of Renal Ischemic Conditioning Strategies
Authors: Kierulf-Lassen Casper , Nieuwenhuijs-Moeke Gertrude J. , Krogstrup Nicoline V. , Oltean Mihai , Jespersen Bente , Dor Frank J.M.F.
Published: September 2015

Ischemia-reperfusion injury is the leading cause of acute kidney injury in a variety of clinical settings such as renal transplantation and hypovolemic and/or septic shock. Strategies to reduce ischemia-reperfusion injury are obviously clinically relevant. Ischemic conditioning is an inherent part of the renal defense mechanism against ischemia and can be triggered by short periods of intermittent ischemia and reperfusion. Understanding the signaling transduction pathways of renal ischemic conditioning can promote further clinical translation and pharmacological advancements in this era. This review summarizes research on the molecular mechanisms underlying both local and remote ischemic pre-, per- and postconditioning of the kidney. The different types of conditioning strategies in the kidney recruit similar powerful pro-survival mechanisms. Likewise, renal ischemic conditioning mobilizes many of the same protective signaling pathways as in other organs, but differences are recognized.
A Multicentric Prospective Incidence Study of Guillain-Barré Syndrome in Italy. The ITANG Study
Authors: Benedetti Maria Donata , Pugliatti Maura , D''Alessandro Roberto , Beghi Ettore , Chiò Adriano , Logroscino Giancarlo , Filippini Graziella , Galeotti Francesca , Massari Marco , Santuccio Carmela , Raschetti Roberto ,   The ITANG Study Group
Published: September 2015

Background: To assess Guillain-Barré syndrome (GBS) incidence we relied on the Italian Network for the study of GBS (ITANG) established in 2010 in 7 Italian regions to analyse the association between influenza vaccination and GBS. Methods: All individuals aged ≥18 years, presenting with clinical manifestations that suggested GBS according to the universally accepted Asbury's diagnostic criteria (1990) were prospectively notified to a centralised database by ITANG neurologists over the period October 1, 2010-September 30, 2011. Through a telephone survey, 9 trained interviewers followed up the cases to diagnosis and then for 1 year since hospital discharge. Validation of case reporting was performed with the support of administrative data in 5 regions. Results: We found 365 cases fulfilling the definition for GBS or one of its variants over 19,846,068 population ≥18 years of age, yielding an annual incidence rate of 1.84 per 100,000 (95% CI 1.65-2.03), 2.30 (95% CI 1.99-2.60) in men and 1.41 (95% CI 1.18-1.64) in women. A highly significant peak of incidence was observed in February 2011 as compared to reference month (September 2011, rate ratio 3.3:1, p < 0.01). Conclusions: In Italy, GBS incidence was among the highest reported in Europe and higher than previously observed in Italian studies.
Chromosomal Mapping of Repetitive DNA Sequences in Five Species of Astyanax (Characiformes, Characidae) Reveals Independent Location of U1 and U2 snRNA Sites and Association of U1 snRNA and 5S rDNA
Authors: Silva Duilio M.Z.A. , Utsunomia Ricardo , Pansonato-Alves José C. , Oliveira Cláudio , Foresti Fausto
Published: September 2015

Astyanax is a genus of Characidae fishes currently composed of 155 valid species. Previous cytogenetic studies revealed high chromosomal diversification among them, and several studies have been performed using traditional cytogenetic techniques to investigate karyotypes and chromosomal locations of 18S and 5S rDNA genes. However, only a few studies are currently available about other repetitive sequences. Here, the chromosomal location of small nuclear RNA genes, identified as U1 and U2 snRNA clusters, was established and compared to the distribution of 5S rDNA and histone clusters in 5 Astyanax species (A. paranae, A. fasciatus, A. bockmanni, A. altiparanae, and A. jordani) using FISH. The cytogenetic mapping of U1 and U2 snRNA demonstrated a conserved pattern in the number of sites per genome independent of the location in Astyanax species. The location of the U1 snRNA gene was frequently associated with 5S rDNA sequences, indicating a possible interaction between the distinct repetitive DNA families. Finally, comparisons involving the location of U1 and U2 snRNA clusters in the chromosomes of Astyanax species revealed a very diverse pattern, suggesting that many rearrangements have occurred during the diversification process of this group.
Improving Care after Acute Kidney Injury: A Prospective Time Series Study
Authors: Silver Samuel A. , Harel Ziv , Harvey Andrea , Adhikari Neill K. , Slack Andrew , Acedillo Rey , Jain Arsh K. , Richardson Robert M. , Chan Christopher T. , Chertow Glenn M. , Bell Chaim M. , Wald Ron
Published: September 2015

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) complicates 15-20% of hospitalizations, and AKI survivors are at increased risk of chronic kidney disease and death. However, less than 20% of patients see a nephrologist within 3 months of discharge, even though a nephrologist visit within 90 days of discharge is associated with enhanced survival. To address this, we established an AKI Follow-Up Clinic and characterized the patterns of care delivered. Methods: We conducted a prospective time series study. All hospitalized patients who developed Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcomes (KDIGO) stage 2 or 3 AKI were eligible. The pre-intervention period consisted of electronic reminders to the nephrology consults and cardiovascular surgery services to refer to the AKI Follow-Up Clinic. In the post-intervention period, eligible patients were automatically scheduled into the AKI Follow-Up Clinic at discharge. The primary outcome was the percentage of KDIGO stages 2-3 AKI survivors assessed by a nephrologist within 30 days of discharge. Results: In the pre-intervention period, 8 of 46 patients (17%) were seen by a nephrologist within 30 days after discharge, and no additional patients were seen for 90 days. In the post-intervention period, 17 of 69 patients (25%) were seen by a nephrologist within 30 days after discharge (p = 0.36), with an additional 30 patients seen in 90 days (47 of 69, 68%, p < 0.001). The mean serum creatinine was 99 (SD 35) µmol/l prior to hospitalization and 133 (58) µmol/l at 3 months. Fifty-five of 79 patients (70%) received at least 1 medical intervention at their first AKI Follow-Up Clinic visit. Conclusions: An AKI Follow-Up Clinic with an automatic referral process increased the proportion of patients seen at 90 days, but not 30 days post discharge. Being seen in the AKI Follow-Up Clinic was associated with interventions in most patients. Future research is needed to evaluate the effect of the AKI Follow-Up Clinic on patient-centered outcomes, but physicians should be aware that AKI survivors may benefit from close outpatient follow-up and a multipronged approach to care similarly for other high-risk populations.
Flame Hair
Authors: Miteva Mariya , Tosti Antonella
Published: September 2015

Background: ‘Flame hairs' is a trichoscopic feature described as hair residue from pulling anagen hairs in trichotillomania. Objective: To detect whether flame hairs are present in other hair loss disorders. Methods: We retrospectively, independently and blindly reviewed the trichoscopic images of 454 consecutive patients with alopecia areata (99 cases), trichotillomania (n = 20), acute chemotherapy-induced alopecia (n = 6), acute radiotherapy-induced alopecia (n = 2), tinea capitis (n = 13), lichen planopilaris (n = 33), frontal fibrosing alopecia (n = 60), discoid lupus erythematosus (n = 30), dissecting cellulitis (n = 11), central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (n = 94) and traction alopecia (n = 86) for the presence of flame hairs. We prospectively obtained trichoscopy-guided scalp biopsies from flame hairs in trichotillomania, alopecia areata, traction alopecia and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (1 case each). Results: Flame hairs were detected in 100% of the acute chemotherapy- and radiotherapy-induced alopecias, where they were the predominant hair abnormality. They were also found in trichotillomania (55%), alopecia areata (21%), traction alopecia (4%) and central centrifugal cicatricial alopecia (3%). On pathology, they corresponded to distorted hair shafts. Conclusion: The flame hair is a type of broken hair which can be seen in various hair loss disorders. It results from traumatic pulling of anagen hairs or from anagen arrest due to inflammation or drugs.
Atypical Bilateral Fuchs Uveitis: Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Couto Cristóbal , Hurtado Erika , Faingold Dana , Demetrio Carmen , Schlaen Ariel , Zas Marcelo , Zarate Jorge , Rosetti Silvia , Paes de Lima Andrea , Croxatto Juan Oscar , Chiaradía Pablo , Burnier Miguel N.
Published: September 2015

Bilateral Fuchs uveitis associated with vitreous infiltration and posterior segment involvement requires a thorough diagnostic evaluation. The lack of well-defined diagnostic criteria makes identification of this entity difficult. The aim of this case report was to present the characteristics of a patient with atypical Fuchs uveitis and the procedures needed to rule out the differential diagnosis with specific attention to the utility of in vivo confocal microscopy (IVCM). Case Report: One case of chronic bilateral uveitis with severe vitreous opacities is presented. After extensive systemic workup, including vitrectomy, the case had no identifiable systemic etiology. IVCM of the cornea revealed the presence of dendritiform keratic precipitates. Conclusion: The diagnosis of Fuchs uveitis is based on clinical findings as no confirmatory laboratory tests are available. A high index of suspicion is key to an early diagnosis, especially in the cases with vitreous opacities and posterior segment manifestations. Auxiliary tests such as IVCM may aid the clinician in the diagnosis of Fuchs uveitis.
Bilateral Glaucomatous Optic Neuropathy Caused by Eye Rubbing
Authors: Savastano Alfonso , Savastano Maria Cristina , Carlomusto Laura , Savastano Silvio
Published: September 2015

In this report, we describe a particular condition of a 52-year-old man who showed advanced bilateral glaucomatous-like optic disc damage, even though the intraocular pressure resulted normal during all examinations performed. Visual field test, steady-state pattern electroretinogram, retinal nerve fiber layer and retinal tomographic evaluations were performed to evaluate the optic disc damage. Over a 4-year observational period, his visual acuity decreased to 12/20 in the right eye and counting fingers in the left eye. Visual fields were severely compromised, and intraocular pressure values were not superior to 14 mm Hg during routine examinations. An accurate anamnesis and the suspicion of this disease represent a crucial aspect to establish the correct diagnosis. In fact, our patient strongly rubbed his eyes for more than 10 h per day. Recurrent and continuous eye rubbing can induce progressive optic neuropathy, causing severe visual field damage similar to the pathology of advanced glaucoma.
Heme Oxygenase-1 Is Not Decreased in Preeclamptic Placenta and Does Not Negatively Regulate Placental Soluble fms-Like Tyrosine Kinase-1 or Soluble Endoglin Secretion
Authors: Tong Stephen , Kaitu’u-Lino Tu’uhevaha J. , Onda Kenji , Beard Sally , Hastie Roxanne , Binder Natalie K. , Cluver Cathy , Tuohey Laura , Whitehead Clare , Brownfoot Fiona , De Silva Manarangi , Hannan Natalie J.
Published: September 2015

Elevated placental release of the antiangiogenic factors, soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and soluble endoglin (sENG), is central to the pathophysiology of preeclampsia. It is widely accepted that heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1) is decreased in preeclamptic placenta and negatively regulates sFlt-1 and sENG production. We set out to verify these contentions. There was no difference in HO-1 mRNA or protein levels in preterm preeclamptic placentas (n=17) compared with gestationally matched controls (n=27). In silico analysis of microarray studies did not identify decreased placental HO-1 expression in preeclamptic placenta. Silencing HO-1 in primary trophoblasts did not affect sFlt-1 protein secretion after 24 or 48 hours. Silencing nuclear factor (erythroid-derived 2)-like 2 (transcription factor that upregulates HO-1) in trophoblasts also did not affect sFlt-1 secretion. Administering tin protoporphyrin IX dichloride (HO-1 inhibitor) or cobalt protoporphyrin (HO-1 inducer) into placental explants did not affect sFlt-1 or sENG secretion. Silencing HO-1 in 2 types of primary endothelial cells (human umbilical vein endothelial and uterine microvascular endothelial cells) significantly increased sFlt-1 secretion but not sENG secretion. However, HO-1 silencing selectively increased mRNA expression of sFlt-1 i13 (generically expressed sFlt-1 variant) but not of sFlt-1 e15a (sFlt-1 variant mainly expressed in placenta). Furthermore, adding tin protoporphyrin IX dichloride decreased sFlt-1, whereas adding HO-1 inducers (cobalt protoporphyrin, dimethyl fumarate, and rosiglitazone) either had no effect or increased sFlt-1 or sENG secretion (these trends are opposite to what is expected). We conclude that HO-1 expression is not decreased in preeclamptic placenta and HO-1 does not negatively regulate placental sFlt-1 and sENG secretion in placental or endothelial cells.
A Helpful Fixer in a Hard Place: Canadian Mediation in the U.S. Confrontation with Cuba
Authors: McKercher Asa
Published: September 2015

With the breakdown of relations between Washington and Havana after the Cuban revolution in 1959, officials in Ottawa found themselves in an unenviable position. Increasingly, Canadian diplomats and politicians felt caught between, on one side, their most important ally and trading partner, and, on the other, a country that had not caused harm to Canada in any significant way. Alarmed by this state of affairs, Canadian officials on several occasions considered mediating the dispute between Cuba and the United States. Ultimately, however, policymakers in Ottawa stopped short of taking this step, largely because they recognized that their U.S. allies disapproved of mediation. Many historians, in playing up the differences between Canadian and U.S. foreign policies toward Cuba, have ignored Canada's caution in choosing an independent stance. This article shows that in dealings over Cuba, Canadian officials were mindful both of Canada's limited capabilities and of its position as a close ally of the United States.
Exposing “Red Colonialism”: U.S. Propaganda at the United Nations, 1953–1963
Authors: Heiss Mary Ann
Published: September 2015

In the 1950s and early 1960s, the United States sought to challenge the Soviet Union's credibility as a champion of decolonization by casting Soviet control of Central Asia, the Baltic republics, and Eastern Europe in imperial terms, or what U.S. officials came to call “Red Colonialism.” Waged in large measure at the United Nations (UN) and other international forums, the Red Colonialism campaign sought to contrast the evolutionary nature of Western colonialism with the seeming permanence of Soviet domination. The campaign underscored the U.S. government's preoccupation with the Soviet threat at a time when much of the developing world was focused on other matters, such as national self-determination, racial equality, and economic development. This article looks at the genesis and nature of the Red Colonialism campaign and explains why a variety of factors ultimately prevented it from gaining much traction at the UN.
From Wartime Friend to Cold War Fiend: The Abduction of Kaji Wataru and U.S.-Japan Relations at Occupation's End
Authors: Esselstrom Erik
Published: September 2015

This article examines archival evidence related to the abduction and interrogation of the leftwing Japanese writer Kaji Wataru by U.S. military intelligence operatives in Tokyo in the early 1950s. The detention of Kaji became a cause célèbre in December 1952 when he publicly claimed that he had been seized in November 1951 and held against his will until late 1952, some seven months beyond the formal end of the U.S. occupation. Kaji said that U.S. officials had accused him of being a Soviet spy, but he denied those charges vehemently. As both sides presented vastly different versions of what had transpired during Kaji's captivity, the truth of the case became enshrouded within the politics of the early Cold War in East Asia. By exploring the Kaji affair through available archival sources, including two important documents released in 2013 in response to a Freedom of Information Act petition, this article casts new light on the incident and connects it to broader interpretive themes in early postwar U.S-Japan relations.
State Actor-Social Movement Coalitions and Policy-making Under Authoritarianism: The Moroccan Party of Justice and Development in the Urban Municipality of Kenitra
Authors: Clark Janine A. , Dalmasso Emanuela
Published: September 2015

This article examines the conditions under which state actor-social movement (sasm) coalitions form in policy-making in authoritarian states. Based on a comparison of three cases of policy reform undertaken by the Party of Justice and Development (pjd) in the municipality of Kenitra, Morocco, it argues: 1) in authoritarian states, we must analyse sasm interactions and the interactions between elected state actors and nominated state actors representing the central authorities; 2) the pjd forms coalitions with social movement organizations (smos) depending whether its policy preference is in opposition to the authorities’ and whether it has mass appeal; 3) when its preference conflicts with that of the authorities yet has broad support, the pjd formally mobilizes smos; when it conflicts with the authorities’ preference but has limited appeal, informal party-social movement coalitions are formed; and when it is neither in conflict with the authorities’ preference nor has mass appeal, coalitions are unnecessary.
A contribution to the moss flora of Ecuador
Authors: Arts Theo , Sollman Philip
Published: September 2015

An annotated list of new records or otherwise interesting species from Ecuador is presented. The occurrence of rhizoidal tubers is reported for the first time in Anoectangium aestivum, Brachymenium chilense and Bryoerythrophyllum campylocarpum.
Revision of the genus Hydroides (Annelida: Serpulidae) from Australia
Authors: SUN YANAN , WONG EUNICE , HOVE HARRY A. TEN , HUTCHINGS PAT A. , WILLIAMSON JANE E. , KUPRIYANOVA ELENA K.
Published: September 2015

Hydroides Gunnerus, 1768 is the largest and one of the economically most important genera of calcareous tubeworms (Serpulidae, Annelida) that includes a number of notorious fouling and bioinvading species. Although the representatives of the genus are typically found in shallow waters of tropical and subtropical areas worldwide, the species composition of the genus in Australia has never been revised. We conducted the first detailed regional taxonomic revision of Hydroides species based both on the historical collections from Australian museums (Australian Museum, Museum Victoria, South Australian Museum, Western Australian Museum, Queensland Museum, and Museum and Art Gallery of Northern Territory) and newly collected material from New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, Northern Territory, and Western Australia. In total, 25 species are currently considered valid in Australia, including three new species: H. amri n. sp. from NSW, SA, and Vic (previously referred to as H. cf. brachyacantha), as well as H. glasbyi n. sp. and H. qiui n. sp., both from NT, and two new records of H. furcifera and H. multispinosa for Australia. We have synonymised H. spiratubus with H. albiceps, and H. spiculitubus with H. tambalagamensis in this study. The status of the taxon H. cf. recta remains undecided. An identification key and diagnoses accompanied by original high-quality photographs for all species recorded in Australia are provided. Application of molecular genetics is needed to resolve the status of some problematic species.
A review of the genus Dudaia Hedicke, 1923 (Diptera, Sphaeroceridae)
Authors: PAPP LÁSZLÓ , NORRBOM ALLEN L.
Published: September 2015

Species of the Afrotropical genus Dudaia Hedicke, 1923 of the subfamily Copromyzinae are revised. The status of Afroborborus Curran, 1931 as a junior synonym of Dudaia is corroborated. Twelve species have been described hitherto, two of them are proposed here to be junior synonyms: Copromyza (Dudaia) simulatilis Richards, 1980, and the name it replaced, Borborus (Dudaia) similis Vanschuytbroeck, 1948, are junior synonyms of Copromyza (Gymnometopina) jeanneli Richards, 1938; and Borborus (Dudaia) uelensis Vanschuytbroeck, 1959 is a junior synonym of Dudaia straeleni (Vanschuytbroeck, 1948). Ten species new to science are described: Dudaia abdita sp. nov. (Kenya), Dudaia aethiopica sp. nov. (Ethiopia), Dudaia albimana sp. nov. (Madagascar), Dudaia brevis sp. nov. (Madagascar), Dudaia communis sp. nov. (Democratic Republic of Congo, Republic of Congo, Ghana, Nigeria, and Tanzania), Dudaia malagasiensis sp. nov. (Madagascar), Dudaia microtuberculata sp. nov. (South Africa), Dudaia pseudohumeralis sp. nov. (Democratic Republic of Congo), Dudaia spangleri sp. nov. (Kenya), and Dudaia steineri sp. nov. (Madagascar).
Continuous Estimate of Atlantic Oceanic Freshwater Flux at 26.5°N
Authors: McDonagh Elaine L. , King Brian A. , Bryden Harry L. , Courtois Peggy , Szuts Zoltan , Baringer Molly , Cunningham Stuart A. , Atkinson Chris , McCarthy Gerard
Published: September 2015

The first continuous estimates of freshwater flux across 26.5°N are calculated using observations from the RAPID–MOCHA–Western Boundary Time Series (WBTS) and Argo floats every 10 days between April 2004 and October 2012. The mean plus or minus the standard deviation of the freshwater flux (FW) is −1.17 ± 0.20 Sv (1 Sv ≡ 106 m3 s−1; negative flux is southward), implying a freshwater divergence of −0.37 ± 0.20 Sv between the Bering Strait and 26.5°N. This is in the sense of an input of 0.37 Sv of freshwater into the ocean, consistent with a region where precipitation dominates over evaporation. The sign and the variability of the freshwater divergence are dominated by the overturning component (−0.78 ± 0.21 Sv). The horizontal component of the freshwater divergence is smaller, associated with little variability and positive (0.35 ± 0.04 Sv). A linear relationship, describing 91% of the variance, exists between the strength of the meridional overturning circulation (MOC) and the freshwater flux (−0.37 − 0.047 Sv of FW per Sverdrups of MOC). The time series of the residual to this relationship shows a small (0.02 Sv in 8.5 yr) but detectable decrease in the freshwater flux (i.e., an increase in the southward freshwater flux) for a given MOC strength. Historical analyses of observations at 24.5°N are consistent with a more negative freshwater divergence from −0.03 to −0.37 Sv since 1974. This change is associated with an increased southward freshwater flux at this latitude due to an increase in the Florida Straits salinity (and therefore the northward salinity flux).
Informing Deep Argo Array Design Using Argo and Full-Depth Hydrographic Section Data
Authors: Johnson Gregory C. , Lyman John M. , Purkey Sarah G.
Published: September 2015

Data from full-depth closely sampled hydrographic sections and Argo floats are analyzed to inform the design of a future Deep Argo array. Here standard errors of local decadal temperature trends and global decadal trends of ocean heat content and thermosteric sea level anomalies integrated from 2000 to 6000 dbar are estimated for a hypothetical 5° latitude × 5° longitude × 15-day cycle Deep Argo array. These estimates are made using temperature variances from closely spaced full-depth CTD profiles taken during hydrographic sections. The temperature data along each section are high passed laterally at a 500-km scale, and the resulting variances are averaged in 5° × 5° bins to assess temperature noise levels as a function of pressure and geographic location. A mean global decorrelation time scale of 62 days is estimated using temperature time series at 1800 dbar from Argo floats. The hypothetical Deep Argo array would be capable of resolving, at one standard error, local trends from <1 m °C decade−1 in the quiescent abyssal North Pacific to about 26 m °C decade−1 below 2000 dbar along 50°S in the energetic Southern Ocean. Larger decadal temperature trends have been reported previously in these regions using repeat hydrographic section data, but those very sparse data required substantial spatial averaging to obtain statistically significant results. Furthermore, the array would provide decadal global ocean heat content trend estimates from 2000 to 6000 dbar with a standard error of ±3 TW, compared to a trend standard error of ±17 TW from a previous analysis of repeat hydrographic data.