bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Exon‐disrupting deletions of NRXN1 in idiopathic generalized epilepsy
Authors: Møller Rikke S. , Weber Yvonne G. , Klitten Laura L. , Trucks Holger , Muhle Hiltrud , Kunz Wolfram S. , Mefford Heather C. , Franke Andre , Kautza Monika , Wolf Peter , Dennig Dieter , Schreiber Stefan , Rückert Ina‐Maria , Wichmann H.‐Erich , Ernst Jan P. , Schurmann Claudia , Grabe Hans J. , Tommerup Niels , Stephani Ulrich , Lerche Holger , Hjalgrim Helle , Helbig Ingo , Sander Thomas ,   EPICURE Consortium
Published: January 2013

Purpose

Neurexins are neuronal adhesion molecules located in the presynaptic terminal, where they interact with postsynaptic neuroligins to form a transsynaptic complex required for efficient neurotransmission in the brain. Recently, deletions and point mutations of the neurexin 1 (NRXN1) gene have been associated with a broad spectrum of neuropsychiatric disorders. This study aimed to investigate if NRXN1 deletions also increase the risk of idiopathic generalized epilepsies (IGEs).

Methods

We screened for deletions involving the NRXN1 gene in 1,569 patients with IGE and 6,201 controls using high‐density oligonucleotide microarrays.

Key Findings

We identified exon‐disrupting deletions of NRXN1 in 5 of 1,569 patients with IGE and 2 of 6,201 control individuals (p = 0.0049; odds ratio (OR) 9.91, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.92–51.12). A complex familial segregation pattern in the IGE families was observed, suggesting that heterozygous NRXN1 deletions are susceptibility variants. Intriguingly, we identified a second large copy number variant in three of five index patients, supporting an involvement of heterogeneous susceptibility alleles in the etiology of IGE.

Significance

We conclude that exon‐disrupting deletions of NRXN1 represent a genetic risk factor in the genetically complex predisposition of common IGE syndromes.
Hyperinsulinaemia increases vascular resistance and endothelin‐1 expression in the equine digit
Authors: Gauff F. , Patan‐Zugaj B. , Licka T. F.
Published: January 2013

Reasons for performing study

Insulin leads to overexpression of endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) in the endothelium of insulin‐resistant rodents. If this is also the case in equine laminar tissue, this could explain the predisposition of insulin‐resistant horses to laminitis.

Objectives

To investigate the effect of hyperinsulinaemia on metabolism and vascular resistance of the isolated equine digit in a model of extracorporeal perfusion.

Study design

Randomised, controlled study with interventional group, with blinded evaluation of histology results.

Method

After exsanguination, equine digits (n = 11) and autologous blood were collected at an abattoir. One digit served as a hyperinsulinaemic pilot limb, 5 digits were assigned to the hyperinsulinaemic perfusion (IP) group and 5 to the control perfusion (CP) group. Digits were perfused for 10 h at a defined perfusion rate of 12 ml/min/kg. After the first hour of perfusion (equilibration period), insulin was added to the reservoir of theIPdigits. Perfusion pressure, glucose consumption, lactate and lactate dehydrogenase were monitored. Vascular resistance was calculated as perfusion pressure (in millimetres of mercury) in relation to the flow rate (in millilitres per minute). After perfusion, histology samples of the dorsal hoof wall (haematoxylin & eosin or periodic acid–Schiff) were evaluated. Immunohistology with a polyclonal rabbit‐derived anti‐endothelin antibody was used for detection ofET‐1.

Results

In theIPgroup, the mean insulin concentration in the plasma of the perfusate was 142 ± 81 μiu/ml, while insulin concentration was <3 μiu/ml in theCPgroup. Mean vascular resistance was significantly higher (P<0.01) in theIPgroup (2.04 ± 1.13 mmHg/ml/min) than in theCPgroup (1.31 ± 0.55 mmHg/ml/min). Histology of theIPgroup samples showed significantly more vessels with an open lumen, increased width of the secondary epidermal lamellae and formation of oedema. In the lamellar vessels (veins and arteries) and nerve fibres,ET‐1 expression was much more prominent in theIPgroup than in theCPgroup samples.

Conclusions

Short‐term hyperinsulinaemia leads to increased vascular resistance in the equine digit and increased expression ofET‐1 in the laminar tissue.
Staphylococcus aureus skin colonization is promoted by barrier disruption and leads to local inflammation
Authors: Wanke Ines , Skabytska Yuliya , Kraft Beatrice , Peschel Andreas , Biedermann Tilo , Schittek Birgit
Published: January 2013

Experimental mouse models of bacterial skin infections that have been described show that pathogenic microorganisms can readily invade the epidermis and dermis to produce localized infections. We used an epicutaneous mouse skin infection model to determine how the level of barrier disruption by tape‐stripping correlates with persistence of Staphylococcus aureus skin colonization, concomitant induction of cutaneous inflammation and infection. Furthermore, we investigated how murine skin responds to S. aureus colonization in a physiologic setting by analysing proinflammatory cytokines and antimicrobial peptides in mouse skin. We show that previous cutaneous damage allows skin inflammation to develop and favours S. aureus persistence leading to cutaneous colonization, suggesting an interdependence of cutaneous bacteria and skin. Our study suggests that skin barrier defects favour S. aureus skin colonization, which is associated with profound cutaneous inflammation.
Photoprotective effect of libanoridin isolated from Corydalis heterocarpa on UVB stressed human keratinocyte cells
Authors: Ahn Byul‐Nim , Kim Jung‐Ae , Kong Chang‐Suk , Seo Youngwan , Kim Se‐Kwon
Published: January 2013

Ultraviolet‐B (UVB) irradiation acts primarily on the epidermal basal cell layer of the skin, inducing harmful biological effects. In this study, we have investigated the effect of libanoridin isolated from Corydalis heterocarpa against UVB‐induced damage in human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cells and the molecular mechanism underlying those effects. Treatment with libanoridin inhibited the cell cytotoxicity and LDH induced by UVB exposure at 40 mJ/cm2. Additionally, expression levels of type IV collagenases (MMP‐2, MMP‐9) were decreased by libanoridin. Furthermore, MMP tissue inhibitors were enhanced followed by treatment with libanoridin. Moreover, UVB‐induced activation of phosphorylation of three MAPKs such as JNK, ERK, p38 and AP‐1 transcription factor were decreased by treatment with libanoridin.

Our present study demonstrates that libanoridin has the abilities to inhibit UVB‐induced cellular damage via ASK1‐MAPK and AP‐1 signalling pathways. Therefore, libanoridin may be used as an effective natural compound to prevent skin damage due to UVB exposure.
Anterior gradient 2 and 3 – two prototype androgen‐responsive genes transcriptionally upregulated by androgens and by oestrogens in prostate cancer cells
Authors: Bu Huajie , Schweiger Michal R. , Manke Thomas , Wunderlich Andrea , Timmermann Bernd , Kerick Martin , Pasqualini Lorenza , Shehu Erald , Fuchsberger Christian , Cato Andrew C. B. , Klocker Helmut
Published: January 2013

Androgens and oestrogens have been implicated in prostatic carcinogenesis and tumour progression. Although the actions of androgens have been studied extensively, the mechanisms underlying oestrogen signalling in prostate cancer are not fully understood. In the present study, we analyzed the effect of androgens and oestrogens on the expression of anterior gradient 2 (AGR2) and anterior gradient 3 (AGR3), comprising two highly‐related genes encoding secretory proteins that are expressed in prostate cancer and one of which (AGR2) has been associated with tumour metastasis. Quantitative reverse‐transcriptase PCR and western blot analysis showed androgen induction of AGR2 and AGR3 in three androgen receptor positive cell lines, starting at concentrations of 0.1 nm. Both AGR genes were also transcriptionally activated by ≥ 5 nm oestradiol but not by isotype selective or nonselective oestrogen receptor agonists in DUCaP cells that harbour a high‐level of wild‐type androgen receptor. A functional androgen receptor but not oestrogen receptor turned out to be required for both androgen and oestrogen regulation. This pattern of androgen and oestrogen regulation was confirmed in VCaP cells and was also observed for FKBP5, a well‐characterized androgen‐regulated gene. Genome‐wide chromatin‐immunoprecipitation studies coupled with deep sequencing identified androgen receptor binding sites localized in the distal promoter and intron regions of the AGR2 and AGR3 genes, respectively. The androgen responsiveness of these enhancers was verified by luciferase reporter gene assays and site‐directed mutagenesis analysis. Androgen treatment also induced p300 and RNA Pol II recruitment to androgen receptor enhancers of AGR2 and initiated local chromatin remodelling and the formation of RNA Pol II‐containing androgen receptor transcription complexes.
The Impact of Stock Transfer Restrictions on the Private Placement Discount
Authors: Finnerty John D.
Published: January 2013

The literature contains four explanations for the private placement discount. I find that all four contribute to the discount: loss of option value due to transfer restrictions, equity ownership concentration, information gathering, and overvaluation and expected underperformance post‐issue. An average‐strike put option model calculates marketability discounts that are consistent with empirical private placement discounts when observed discounts are adjusted for equity ownership concentration, information, and overvaluation effects. In contrast to the positive signaling effect of traditional private placement announcements, there is a negative signaling effect for private investments in public equity when the firm commits to register the shares promptly.
How Does Uncertainty Resolution Affect VC Syndication?
Authors: Altintig Z. Ayca , Chiu Hsin‐Hui , Goktan M. Sinan
Published: January 2013

We use the external certification due to the FDA 510(k) clearance process in the medical device industry as a natural experiment and analyze the dynamics of the syndicate formation of venture capital (VC) firms under various levels of uncertainty. We test several nonmutually exclusive hypotheses on project selection, second opinion, collusion, and diversification. Our results suggest that FDA 510(k) clearance serves as an outside certification and reduces uncertainty leading to greater amounts of capital flowing into the company from a larger group of investors. Our results also suggest that experienced VC firms are able to identify promising projects early on without the need for external 510(k) certification or second opinion.
Pension Policy and the Value of Corporate‐Level Investment
Authors: Alderson Michael J. , Seitz Neil L.
Published: January 2013

We examine how pension policy affects the value of corporate‐level investment to the firm and its various claimants using Monte Carlo simulation. Shareholders lose the greatest amount of project value to the pension plan when it is undiversified across asset classes. Improved funding levels mandated by the provisions of the Pension Protection Act of 2006 generally reduce those wealth transfers. Thus, mitigation of the overhang effect joins the reduction of financial distress costs as a motivation for holding both stocks and bonds in the pension fund.
Validity and reproducibility of the revised oral assessment guide applied by community health workers
Authors: Ribeiro Marco Tulio F. , Ferreira Raquel C. , Vargas Andrea M.D. , e Ferreira Efigênia Ferreira
Published: January 2013

Objective

To determine the validity and reproducibility of the Revised Oral Assessment Guide (ROAG) as pre‐diagnostic tool used in elderly citizens by community health workers (CHWs) of the Family Health Strategy (FHS).

Material and methods

Initially, we adjusted the English version to Portuguese and then developed a training program for use of ROAG, with the participation of CHWs, in selected districts that had the highest enrolled number of elderly people in the city. The elderly persons were distributed among 10 previously trained CHWs. To assess the validity of the ROAG, a CHW and a dentist (considered as the gold standard) independently evaluated the same individual. The reproducibility of the ROAG was evaluated by each of the CHWs examining 5–6 elderly individuals twice with a 7‐day interval.

Results

The sensitivity ranged from 0.17 for evaluation of saliva to 0.80 for voice. The specific ranged from 0.69 for teeth/dentures to 0.98 for saliva using mirror and the accuracy ranged from 0.92 for swallow to 0.64 for mucosa. The intra‐rater reproducibility of the ROAG was perfect for evaluation of voice, lips and swallow (κ = 1.000).

Conclusion

When used by trained CHWs, the ROAG is a tool with high sensitivity and specificity to assess voice, swallowing, tongue and teeth/dentures. Moreover, it can efficiently detect patients showing no alteration in lips, saliva, mucosa and gums. High reproducibility was observed in almost all the categories. Trained CHWs can use this tool to improve the access of elderly patients to dental services.
Evaluation of the efficacy of a topical sialogogue spray containing malic acid 1% in elderly people with xerostomia: a double‐blind, randomized clinical trial
Authors: Gómez‐Moreno Gerardo , Cabrera‐Ayala Maribel , Aguilar‐Salvatierra Antonio , Guardia Javier , Ramírez‐Fernández María Piedad , González‐Jaranay Maximino , Calvo‐Guirado José Luis
Published: January 2013

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the clinical efficacy of a topical sialogogue spray containing 1% malic acid for elderly people affected by xerostomia.

Material and methods

This research took the form of a double‐blind, randomized clinical trial. Forty‐one individuals (mean age: 78.7 years) with xerostomia were divided into two groups: for the first ‘intervention group’ (21 subjects) a topical sialogogue spray (1% malic acid) was applied, while for the second ‘control group’ (20 subjects), a placebo spray was applied; for both groups, the sprays were applied on demand during 2 weeks. The Xerostomia Inventory (XI) was used to evaluate xerostomia levels before and after product/placebo application. Unstimulated and stimulated salivary flows rates, before and after spray application, were measured.

Results

XI scores decreased significantly (clinically meaningful) from 36.4 ± 7.3 points to 29.1 ± 7.1 (p < 0.05) with an XI difference of 7.2 ± 6.1, after the combination among 1% malic acid with xylitol and fluoride application. After 2 weeks of 1% malic acid application, unstimulated and stimulated salivary flows rates increased significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

A topical sialogogue spray containing 1% malic acid improved xerostomia in an elderly population and increased unstimulated and stimulated salivary flows rates.
Retrospective cohort study of the incidence and risk of fever in elderly people living at home: A pragmatic aspect of home medical management in Japan
Authors: Yokobayashi Kenichi , Matsushima Masato , Fujinuma Yasuki , Tazuma Susumu
Published: January 2013

Aim

In Japan, many elderly patients are managed at home, and fever is a common problem. This study examined the incidence of fever events in elderly patients on home medical management, and underlying disorders from the pragmatic standpoint. This study also investigated whether the care‐need level determined at the start of home care predicts fever onset.

Methods

The participants were patients aged ≥65 years who received home medical management from one clinic from 1 July 2008 to 30 June 2009. End‐points were onset of fever, diagnosis at time of fever onset and outcome. The incidence of fever was determined using the Kaplan–Meier method and compared using the log–rank test. To evaluate the effect of care‐need level on fever, Cox's proportional hazards model was used to adjust for confounding variables.

Results

A total 105 patients were included, with 100% follow up. The median observation period was 364 days. There were 64 fever events, for a fever incidence of 2.3/1000 patient‐days (95% CI 1.8–2.9); fever occurred at least once in 42.6% of participants. Fever was significantly more likely to occur in care‐need level 5 than in ≤4, with a risk ratio of 2.4. The most common diagnosis for all fever events was pneumonia/bronchitis, followed by urinary tract infection, and skin and soft tissue infection. Nearly 80% of cases were cured at home.

Conclusions

Fever occurred in approximately half of the participants over 1 year, and was more likely in patients requiring the highest care level; nearly 80% of cases were cured at home. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2013; 13: 887–893.
C. elegans Rassf homolog, rasf‐1, is functionally associated with rab‐39 Rab GTPase in oxidative stress response
Authors: Takenaka Motohiko , Inoue Hideki , Takeshima Atsushi , Kakura Tomonori , Hori Toshiyuki
Published: January 2013

The Ras association domain family (Rassf) is one of the Ras effectors, which can bind to several GTP‐charged Ras‐like GTPases. The Rassf proteins are widely conserved beyond species from nematode to human. To explore the novel functions of Rassf proteins, we took advantage of nematode C. elegans as a model animal with only one Rassf homolog, T24F1.3 (rasf‐1). The rasf‐1‐mutant as well as rasf‐1‐knockdown animals were found to be more sensitive to oxidative stress of arsenite than in wild type, indicating that rasf‐1 is involved in oxidative stress response. We next screened for proteins that interact with RASF‐1 by the yeast two‐hybrid system and identified RAB‐39 Rab GTPase as an interacting partner of RASF‐1. We not only confirmed specific binding between these molecules but also demonstrated that RASF‐1 binds to GTP‐bound form but not GDP‐bound form of RAB‐39. Importantly, rab‐39 mutant animals were also sensitive to oxidative stress, which was dependent on rasf‐1 according to the epistasis analysis. Moreover, Rassf1 and Rab39, mammalian homologs of rasf‐1 and rab‐39, respectively, were shown to interact with each other in vitro. These results indicate that the RASF‐1 functionally interacts with RAB‐39 and that the interaction between their homologs is conserved in mammals.
Extra‐cell cycle regulatory functions of cyclin‐dependent kinases (CDK) and CDK inhibitor proteins contribute to brain development and neurological disorders
Authors: Kawauchi Takeshi , Shikanai Mima , Kosodo Yoichi
Published: January 2013

In developing brains, neural progenitors exhibit cell cycle‐dependent nuclear movement within the ventricular zone [interkinetic nuclear migration (INM)] and actively proliferate to produce daughter progenitors and/or neurons, whereas newly generated neurons exit from the cell cycle and begin pial surface‐directed migration and maturation. Dysregulation of the balance between the proliferation and the cell cycle exit in neural progenitors is one of the major causes of microcephaly (small brain). Recent studies indicate that cell cycle machinery influences not only the proliferation but also INM in neural progenitors. Furthermore, several cell cycle‐related proteins, including p27kip1, p57kip2, Cdk5, and Rb, regulate the migration of neurons in the postmitotic state, suggesting that the growth arrest confers dual functions on cell cycle regulators. Consistently, several types of microcephaly occur in conjunction with neuronal migration disorders, such as periventricular heterotopia and lissencephaly. However, cell cycle re‐entry by disturbance of growth arrest in mature neurons is thought to trigger neuronal cell death in Alzheimer's disease. In this review, we introduce the cell cycle protein‐mediated regulation of two types of nuclear movement, INM and neuronal migration, during cerebral cortical development, and discuss the roles of growth arrest in cortical development and neurological disorders.
Late immune tolerance induction in haemophilia A patients
Authors: Meeks S. L. , Chapman R. L. , Kempton C. , Dunn A. L.
Published: January 2013

The incidence of inhibitor development in patients with severe haemophilia A is approximately 30%. Immune tolerance induction (ITI) is commonly utilized to eradicate these antibodies and is successful in 63–100% of cases. Potential predictors of a poor outcome in ITI include a high preinduction titre, high historical peak titre, older age at start of ITI and prolonged interval from diagnosis to start of ITI. The goal of this study was to characterize the outcomes of patients from our centre who have undergone late ITI, many of whom had poor prognostic features. Medical records of patients in our centre with severe/moderately severe haemophilia A (<2% FVIII activity) and history of inhibitor were reviewed. Data were abstracted from all patients who attempted late ITI. Nine patients underwent late ITI between January 1999 and December 2011. Within this cohort, 7 (78%) patients were black, 6 (67%) were <21 years old and 4 (44%) had a family history of inhibitor. Three patients had previously received ITI unsuccessfully. To date, 4 (44%) patients are tolerized (persistently negative inhibitor titre, FVIII recovery >66% and successfully treated with FVIII products ±FVIII t½ of >6 h). Three patients are partially tolerized (have low responding inhibitor, variable FVIII recovery and successfully treated with FVIII products). Two patients are not tolerized. Some patients with haemophilia A and long‐standing inhibitors may benefit from ITI.
Stilling the tremors: Resurrecting HIV services in Haiti's post‐earthquake tent cities
Authors: Ghose Toorjo , Boucicaut Edner , King Charles , Shubert Virginia , Doyle Andrea
Published: January 2013

The January 12, 2010 earthquake in Haiti severely undermined HIV service provision in the country. Almost 10 percent of Haitians were displaced and now live in temporary tent communities. Little is known about how HIV services are being provided to Haitians with HIV in these encampments. This study addresses this lacuna by conducting a process evaluation of the manner in which a collaboration among Haitian community‐based HIV service providers, a US‐based HIV service provider, and a US‐based academic research team resurrected HIV services in the encampments. Efforts to set up HIV services in the encampments proceeded through three stages: (i) an initial crisis response that activated established networks and identified feasible goals; (ii) the development of services by building research capacity, conducting needs assessments, addressing logistical challenges, and establishing community‐based services; and (iii) the sustaining of the initiative by targeting resources and negotiating in the political arena. Implications of the protocol for future efforts are discussed.

Key Practitioner Message: ● Resurrecting HIV services in post‐disaster zones; ● Utilizing cross‐country, provider–academic partnerships to develop service capacity; ● Targeting structural barriers to establish HIV services in resource‐poor settings.
Comparative metatranscriptomic signatures of wood and paper feeding in the gut of the termite Reticulitermes flavipes (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae)
Authors: Raychoudhury R. , Sen R. , Cai Y. , Sun Y. , Lietze V.‐U. , Boucias D. G. , Scharf M. E.
Published: January 2013

Termites are highly eusocial insects that thrive on recalcitrant materials like wood and soil and thus play important roles in global carbon recycling and also in damaging wooden structures. Termites, such as Reticulitermes flavipes (Rhinotermitidae), owe their success to their ability to extract nutrients from lignocellulose (a major component of wood) with the help of gut‐dwelling symbionts. With the aim to gain new insights into this enzymatic process we provided R. flavipes with a complex lignocellulose (wood) or pure cellulose (paper) diet and followed the resulting differential gene expression on a custom oligonucleotide‐microarray platform. We identified a set of expressed sequence tags (ESTs) with differential abundance between the two diet treatments and demonstrated the source (host/symbiont) of these genes, providing novel information on termite nutritional symbiosis. Our results reveal: (1) the majority of responsive wood‐ and paper‐abundant ESTs are from host and symbionts, respectively; (2) distinct pathways are associated with lignocellulose and cellulose feeding in both host and symbionts; and (3) sets of diet‐responsive ESTs encode putative digestive and wood‐related detoxification enzymes. Thus, this study illuminates the dynamics of termite nutritional symbiosis and reveals a pool of genes as potential targets for termite control and functional studies of termite‐symbiont interactions.
Robust error on magnetotelluric impedance estimates
Authors: Wawrzyniak Pierre , Sailhac Pascal , Marquis Guy
Published: January 2013

We propose here a new, robust, methodology to estimate the errors on a magnetotelluric (MT) impedance tensor. This method is developed with the bounded influence remote‐reference processing (BIRRP) code in a single site configuration. The error is estimated by reinjecting an electric field residual obtained after the calculation of an impedance tensor into a tensor function calculation procedure. We show using synthetic examples that the error tensor calculated with our method yields a more reliable error estimate than the one calculated from Jackknife statistics. The modulus of realistic error estimates can be used as a quality control and an accurate inversion constraint of MT surveys. Moreover, reliable error estimates are necessary for new applications of MT to dynamic subsurface processes such as reservoir monitoring.
Laboratory determination of the full electrical resistivity tensor of heterogeneous carbonate rocks at elevated pressures
Authors: North Laurence , Best Angus I. , Sothcott Jeremy , MacGregor Lucy
Published: January 2013

We describe a measurement system capable of determining the full resistivity tensor of core samples at elevated, geologically representative, pressures using a galvanic method. It is suitable for heterogeneous rocks where it is difficult to measure tensorial resistivity without bias from sample selection and heterogeneity. We demonstrate the efficacy of the system using both synthetic data and measurements on carbonate rock core samples. The apparatus employs a computer controlled array of 16 electrodes to inject current into, and measure boundary voltages on, a 5 cm diameter cylindrical sample. A computationally efficient FE algorithm is used to retrieve the full resistivity tensor from the measured voltages. The algorithm uses isotropic Finite Element code to calculate anisotropic solutions for samples of arbitrary geometry. Initial results from Jurassic limestone and Triassic dolomite samples, reveal cm‐scale heterogeneity and significant bulk anisotropy consistent with rock fabric observed in X‐ray Computed Tomography scan images.
Mating system in Mexican populations of the annual herb Solanum rostratum Dunal (Solanaceae)
Authors: Vallejo‐Marín M. , Solís‐Montero L. , Souto Vilaros D. , Lee M. Y. Q.
Published: January 2013

Traditionally, annual colonising species are expected to have high rates of self‐fertilisation, although recent theoretical and empirical studies have shown that cross‐fertilisation can be selected for under heterogeneous pollination environments. Solanum rostratum is a self‐compatible annual herb that colonises disturbed habitats. Despite the lack of physiological mechanisms to prevent self‐fertilisation, pollen transfer between individuals is expected to be favoured because of its complex floral morphology. In previous studies of S. rostratum it has been shown that anther dimorphism within flowers results in precise pollen placement on the pollinator's body, and the presence of mirror‐image floral morphs within plants promotes outcrossing in experimental arrays. However, the mating system of natural populations of S. rostratum has never been assessed, and thus whether it is predominantly selfing or outcrossing remains unknown. We hypothesise that floral and inflorescence morphology of S. rostratum should facilitate cross‐fertilisation, making it a predominantly outcrossing despite its lack of a self‐incompatibility system. To test this hypothesis, we estimated outcrossing rates by genotyping 700 individuals at 13 microsatellite loci, sampled from four populations across a 690‐km transect in the species' native range. We found that populations had mean outcrossing rates of 0.70 ± 0.03, with multiple sires contributing to paternity of each progeny array (average effective number of sires = 8.97 ± 0.57). This indicates that natural populations S. rostratum have relatively high levels of outcrossing, probably facilitated by its floral and inflorescence morphology. We speculate that partial selfing in this species may be an unavoidable consequence of displaying multiple flowers at the same time (geitonogamy), as well as the result of self‐pollen transfer by illegitimate visitors.
The neotropical shrub Lupinus elegans, from temperate forests, may not adapt to climate change
Authors: Soto‐Correa J. C. , Sáenz‐Romero C. , Lindig‐Cisneros R. , de la Barrera E.
Published: January 2013

Considering that their distribution is limited to altitudinal gradients along mountains that are likely to become warmer and drier, climate change poses an increased threat to temperate forest species from tropical regions. We studied whether the understorey shrub Lupinus elegans, endemic to temperate forests of west‐central Mexico, will be able to withstand the projected temperature increase under seven climate change scenarios. Seeds were collected along an altitudinal gradient and grown in a shade‐house over 7 months before determining their temperature tolerance as electrolyte leakage. The plants from colder sites tolerated lower temperatures, i.e. the temperature at which half of the maximum electrolyte leakage occurred (LT50), ranged from −6.4 ± 0.7 to −2.4 ± 0.3 °C. In contrast, no pattern was found for tolerance to high temperature (LT50 average 42.8 ± 0.3 °C). The climate change scenarios considered here consistently estimated an increase in air temperature during the present century that was higher for the maximum air temperature than for the mean or minimum. In particular, the anomaly from the normal maximum air temperature at the study region ranged from 2.8 °C by 2030 to 5.8 °C by 2090. In this respect, the inability of L. elegans to adapt to increasingly higher temperatures found here, in addition to a possible inhibition of reproduction caused by warmer winters, may limit its future distribution.
An Immunohistochemical Study of the Oviduct in the Domestic Fowl (Gallus domesticus)
Authors: Madekurozwa M.‐C.
Published: January 2013

This study describes the distribution of vimentin, desmin, smooth muscle actin (SMA) and laminin in the oviduct of the laying domestic fowl. Vimentin immunostaining was localised in the luminal epithelium of the infundibulum, magnum, magnum–isthmus junction and isthmus. The luminal epithelium of the shell gland regions displayed weak vimentin immunostaining. Vimentin immunostaining was demonstrated in the glandular grooves of the tubular infundibular region. In contrast, gland cells in the magnum, isthmus and shell gland regions were vimentin immunonegative. Fibroblasts and vascular endothelial cells in the lamina propria of the oviductal regions studied exhibited vimentin immunostaining. Strong desmin and SMA immunostaining were present in the smooth muscle cells of the tunica muscularis and vascular tunica media. In this study, basement membranes underlying the luminal and glandular epithelia were immunopositive for laminin. In addition, basement membranes associated with smooth muscle cells exhibited laminin immunostaining. The results of the study indicate that the immunolocalisation of desmin, SMA and laminin in the oviduct of the domestic fowl is similar to that in the mammalian uterus. The immunolocalisation of vimentin in the domestic fowl varies depending on the oviductal region.
Mixed mucin‐producing and squamous differentiated tumor of the uterine cervix: A report of a case as adenosquamous carcinoma in situ
Authors: Ohta Yoshiki , Kunimura Toshiaki , Omatsu Mutsuko , Shiokawa Akira , Kushima Miki , Ota Hidekazu
Published: January 2013

We report a non‐invasive mixed mucin‐producing and squamous differentiated tumor of the uterine cervix. This tumor was composed of two cell types: mucin‐producing cells and non‐mucin‐producing cells. These cells were intimately mixed with each other, and showed intraepithelial spreading. The mucin‐producing cells showed signet‐ring or columnar shapes, and were localized to the lower‐to‐upper epithelial layer. The non‐mucin‐producing cells had eosinophilic cytoplasms with a monotonous appearance through the epithelium. Mitosis was sometimes observed in both cell types. Immunohistochemically, both cell types were positive for p16INK4A. The non‐mucin‐producing cells were positive for p63 and 34βE12, suggesting squamous differentiation. Although most mucin‐producing cells were p63‐, a few of them were p63+ and many 34βE12 immunoreactive cells were found in the mucin‐producing cells. This tumor was adenosquamous carcinoma in situ.
Valuing recreational fishing in Tasmania and assessment of response bias in contingent valuation*
Authors: Yamazaki Satoshi , Rust Steven , Jennings Sarah , Lyle Jeremy , Frijlink Sven
Published: January 2013

We report results from contingent valuation studies in each of two Tasmanian fisheries that estimate the value of a day’s recreational fishing. Published studies estimating the economic value of recreational fishing in Australia and New Zealand are limited, although the economic and social benefits associated with this activity are sizable and the importance of understanding the behaviour of recreational fishers for the sustainable management of aquatic resources is well recognised. In our contingent valuation surveys, we use a double‐bounded version of the dichotomous choice question, which improves the statistical efficiency of the estimates relative to those based on a single dichotomous choice question. We test and control for response bias, in the form of anchoring and a shift effect, that may occur in data collected using a double‐bounded dichotomous choice (DBDC) elicitation format. We highlight the importance of identifying and correcting for response bias in DBDC models on a case‐by‐case basis. Our estimation results show that there is no significant difference in the willingness to pay for a day of recreational fishing across individuals who caught different number of fish in either fishery. This suggests that high and low catch fishers placed the same value on a day’s fishing.
Fatigue Crack Initiation and Propagation in Piles of Integral Abutment Bridges
Authors: Razmi Jafar , Ladani Leila , Aggour M. Sherif
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  A new continuum damage modeling approach of “successive initiation” is used to determine the location of a thermomechanical fatigue crack initiation and the propagation path and rate in piles of integral abutment bridges. A global‐local modeling approach is introduced to determine the critical location in the pile where a crack is initiated using a 3‐dimensional nonlinear finite element model and to implement “successive initiation.” A simulated case study is used to showcase the multistep procedure. The results indicate that for a pile subjected to the maximum stress, the first fatigue‐induced crack initiates in the tip of the flange at the element immediately below the abutment. Several other cracks at different locations form in the flange of the pile while the initial crack continues to propagate in the flange to the web. The crack propagation rate increases as more cracks initiate in the flange. The propagation rate decreases when the crack reaches the web. Based on the case study presented, a crack could initiate in the pile in as little as 6 years, but it may take about 20 years for it to reach the web; however, final failure of the pile may not take place for several decades. The method can also be used as a guide in bridge foundation inspection and in the determination of the remaining life of an existing bridge.
Integration of Genomics in Cancer Care
Authors: Santos Erika Maria Monteiro , Edwards Quannetta T. , Floria‐Santos Milena , Rogatto Silvia Regina , Achatz Maria Isabel Waddington , MacDonald Deborah J.
Published: January 2013

Purpose: The article aims to introduce nurses to how genetics‐genomics is currently integrated into cancer care from prevention to treatment and influencing oncology nursing practice.

Organizing Construct: An overview of genetics‐genomics is described as it relates to cancer etiology, hereditary cancer syndromes, epigenetics factors, and management of care considerations.

Methods: Peer‐reviewed literature and expert professional guidelines were reviewed to address concepts of genetics‐genomics in cancer care.

Findings: Cancer is now known to be heterogeneous at the molecular level, with genetic and genomic factors underlying the etiology of all cancers. Understanding how these factors contribute to the development and treatment of both sporadic and hereditary cancers is important in cancer risk assessment, prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and long‐term management and surveillance.

Conclusions: Rapidly developing advances in genetics‐genomics are changing all aspects of cancer care, with implications for nursing practice.

Clinical Relevance: Nurses can educate cancer patients and their families about genetic‐genomic advances and advocate for use of evidence‐based genetic‐genomic practice guidelines to reduce cancer risk and improve outcomes in cancer management.
An improved method for the identification of galaxy systems: measuring the gravitational redshift by dark matter haloes
Authors: Domínguez Romero Mariano Javier de León , García Lambas Diego , Muriel Hernán
Published: January 2013

We introduce a new method for the identification of galaxy systems in redshift surveys based on the halo model. This method is a modified version of the K-means identification algorithm developed by Yang et al. We have calibrated and tested our algorithms using mock catalogues generated using the Millennium Simulations and applied them to the NYU-DR7 galaxy catalogue (based on the SDSS data sets). Using this local sample of groups and clusters of galaxies, we have measured the effect of gravitational redshift produced by their host dark matter haloes. Our results show radial velocity decrements consistent with general relativity predictions and previous measurements by Wojtak et al. in clusters of galaxies.
Intra-Arterial Thrombolysis vs. Standard Treatment or Intravenous Thrombolysis in Adults with Acute Ischemic Stroke: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Nam Julian , Jing He , O'Reilly Daria
Published: January 2013

Background

Recent evidence has suggested that intra-arterial thrombolysis may provide benefit beyond intravenous thrombolysis in ischemic stroke patients. Previous meta-analyses have only compared intra-arterial thrombolysis with standard treatment without thrombolysis. The objective was to review the benefits and harms of intra-arterial thrombolysis in ischemic stroke patients.

Methods

We undertook a meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials comparing the efficacy and safety of intra-arterial thrombolysis with either standard treatment or intravenous thrombolysis following acute ischemic stroke. Primary outcomes included poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 3–6), mortality, and symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage. Study quality was assessed, and outcomes were stratified by comparison treatment received.

Results

Four trials (n = 351) comparing intra-arterial thrombolysis with standard treatment were identified. Intra-arterial thrombolysis reduced the risk of poor functional outcomes (modified Rankin Scale 3–6) [relative risk (RR) = 0·80; 95% confidence interval = 0·67–0·95; P = 0·01]. Mortality was not increased (RR = 0·82; 95% confidence interval = 0·56–1·21; P = 0·32); however, risk of symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage was nearly four times more likely (RR = 3·90; 95% confidence interval = 1·41–10·76; P = 0·006). Two trials (n = 81) comparing intra-arterial thrombolysis with intravenous thrombolysis were identified. Intra-arterial thrombolysis was not found to reduce poor functional outcomes(modified Rankin Scale 3–6) (RR = 0·68; 95% confidence interval = 0·46–1·00; P = 0·05). Mortality was not increased (RR = 1·12; 95% confidence interval = 0·47–2·68; P = 0·79); neither was symptomatic intracranial hemorrhage (RR = 1·13; 95% confidence interval = 0·32–3·99; P = 0·85). Differences in time from symptom onset-to-treatment and type of thrombolytic administered were found across the trials.

Conclusions

This analysis finds a modest benefit of intra-arterial thrombolysis over standard treatment, although it does not find a clear benefit of intra-arterial thrombolysis over intravenous thrombolysis in acute ischemic stroke patients. However, few trials, small sample sizes, and indirectness limit the strength of evidence.
Rethinking Homelessness Prevention among Persons with Serious Mental Illness
Authors: Montgomery Ann Elizabeth , Metraux Stephen , Culhane Dennis
Published: January 2013

During recent years, the need to consider effective and innovative ways to prevent and end homelessness among individuals with serious mental illness has been abetted by an increased and more sophisticated understanding of the composition of the homeless population, the emergence of evidence‐based practices to address homelessness, and the passage of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. This article summarizes the evolving understanding of the role that serious mental illness plays in homelessness as well as the interventions that are effective at preventing and ending homelessness among persons with serious mental illness. This summary contextualizes a discussion of the practice and policy agenda to address homelessness among people with serious mental illness using a new prevention framework and considering the opportunities inherent in increased affordable health care coverage for very low‐income individuals with serious mental illness.
The Cross‐Race Effect and Eyewitness Identification: How to Improve Recognition and Reduce Decision Errors in Eyewitness Situations
Authors: Wilson John Paul , Hugenberg Kurt , Bernstein Michael J.
Published: January 2013

The Cross‐Race Effect (CRE), whereby same‐race faces are recognized more accurately than cross‐race faces, is a well‐replicated psychological phenomenon with clear social consequences. The area in which its influence is most visible is that of eyewitness misidentification. Since the advent of DNA testing, it has been revealed that scores of people have been wrongly imprisoned for crimes that they did not commit, and cross‐race eyewitness misidentifications are a determining factor in a large percentage of these convictions. This article reviews existing perspectives on the causes of the CRE, including new work on the social cognitive underpinnings of the bias. Next, we make recommendations aimed at reducing the cross‐race effect in eyewitness identification, both at the point of witnessing the crime and during the witness lineup. The goal of this work is to encourage policymakers to implement suggestions based on the current understanding of the causes and moderators of the CRE.
The relationship of oxidative stress, adiposity and metabolic risk factors in healthy Black and White American youth
Authors: Warolin J. , Coenen K. R. , Kantor J. L. , Whitaker L. E. , Wang L. , Acra S. A. , Roberts L. J. , Buchowski M. S.
Published: January 2013

What is already known about this subject

African Americans are disproportionately affected by obesity and other metabolic risk factors in comparison to White Americans.

Increasing prevalence of obesity has been associated with concomitant increases in childhood hypertension, dyslipidaemia and type 2 diabetes.

Oxidative stress is associated with obesity in both adults and children.

What this study adds

Oxidative stress is positively associated with total body fat and truncal fat, but not with body mass index (BMI) or BMI z‐score in healthy youth.

Oxidative stress is associated with diastolic blood pressure in African American but not in White American healthy youth.

Background

Oxidative stress is elevated in obese youth, but less is known regarding racial disparities in the relationship of oxidative stress with metabolic risk factors.

Objectives

To determine the relationship between oxidative stress and metabolic risk factors, adiposity, leptin, adiponectin and cardiovascular fitness (VO2PEAK) in healthy African American and White American youth.

Methods

A marker of oxidative stress (F2‐isoprostane), validated markers of metabolic risk factors, fitness and body composition were measured in African American (n = 82) and White American (n = 76) youth (8–17 years old) recruited over a range of BMI percentiles (4th to 99th).

Results

F2‐isoprostane concentration was positively correlated with percentage body fat (r = 0.198) and percentage truncal fat (r = 0.173), but was not different between African American and White American males and females (P = 0.208). African American youth had significantly higher mean systolic and diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.023 and P = 0.011, respectively), body weight, BMI percentile and Tanner stage. After adjusting for gender, age, BMI and Tanner stage, African American youth varied from White Americans in the association of F2‐isoprostane with diastolic blood pressure (P = 0.047), but not with systolic blood pressure, triglycerides, VO2PEAK or homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (all P > 0.05).

Conclusions

Oxidative stress, as measured by urinary F2‐isoprostane concentrations, was positively associated with percent body fat and truncal fat in youth. Oxidative stress levels were similar among African American and White American youth. Among markers of the metabolic syndrome, a significant difference between African American and White American youth was demonstrated only in the association of oxidative stress with diastolic blood pressure.
Use of Volume Element Methods to Understand Experimental Differences in Active/Passive Transitions and Active Oxidation Rates for SiC
Authors: Kubota Y. , Hatta H. , Yoshinaka T. , Kogo Y. , Goto T. , Rong T.
Published: January 2013

Quantitative evaluation of oxidation behavior of high‐temperature materials is imperative for applications in a Silicon carbide (SiC)‐based thermal protection system (TPS) of reentry space vehicles. However, the reported oxidation rates obtained using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) have been widely varied among researchers. In this study, this variation is assumed to be attributable to differences in the oxygen partial pressure at the sample surface due to different configuration of the experimental devices. Existing data are usually given as a function of the surface temperature of a specimen TS with the partial pressure of oxygen in the input gas as a main parameter. However, even if and TS are set to the same, the oxygen partial pressure on specimen surface and gas temperature TG are expected to vary widely, respectively, from , TS, and according to the difference in the oxidative environments. To evaluate these effects in various apparatuses, numerical calculations were conducted for the case of SiC. From these results, was found to be main source of the variation in oxidation rates.