bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mechanistic insights into activation and SOCS3-mediated inhibition of myeloproliferative neoplasm-associated JAK2 mutants from biochemical and structural analyses
Authors: Varghese Leila N. , Ungureanu Daniela , Liau Nicholas P. D. , Young Samuel N. , Laktyushin Artem , Hammaren Henrik , Lucet Isabelle S. , Nicola Nicos A. , Silvennoinen Olli , Babon Jeffrey J. , Murphy James M.
Published: December 2013

JAK2 (Janus kinase 2) initiates the intracellular signalling cascade downstream of cell surface receptor activation by cognate haemopoietic cytokines, including erythropoietin and thrombopoietin. The pseudokinase domain (JH2) of JAK2 negatively regulates the catalytic activity of the adjacent tyrosine kinase domain (JH1) and mutations within the pseudokinase domain underlie human myeloproliferative neoplasms, including polycythaemia vera and essential thrombocytosis. To date, the mechanism of JH2-mediated inhibition of JH1 kinase activation as well as the susceptibility of pathological mutant JAK2 to inhibition by the physiological negative regulator SOCS3 (suppressor of cytokine signalling 3) have remained unclear. In the present study, using recombinant purified JAK2JH1-JH2 proteins, we demonstrate that, when activated, wild-type and myeloproliferative neoplasm-associated mutants of JAK2 exhibit comparable enzymatic activity and inhibition by SOCS3 in in vitro kinase assays. SAXS (small-angle X-ray scattering) showed that JAK2JH1-JH2 exists in an elongated configuration in solution with no evidence for interaction between JH1 and JH2 domains in cis. Collectively, these data are consistent with a model in which JAK2's pseudokinase domain does not influence the activity of JAK2 once it has been activated. Our data indicate that, in the absence of the N-terminal FERM domain and thus cytokine receptor association, the wild-type and pathological mutants of JAK2 are enzymatically equivalent and equally susceptible to inhibition by SOCS3.
Is it tea time for portal hypertension?
Authors: Gracia-Sancho Jordi , Bosch Jaime
Published: December 2013

Portal hypertension is the main complication of cirrhosis and represents a leading cause of death in patients with chronic liver disease. Therapeutic agents to improve portal hypertension should ameliorate the underlying mechanisms of portal hypertension: the elevated hepatic resistance and the hyperdynamic circulation. In the present issue of Clinical Science, Hsu and co-workers show the beneficial effects of GTPs (green tea polyphenols) in improving portal hypertension. Long-term administration of GTPs inhibited the development of cirrhosis and portal hypertension by decreasing both hepatic resistance and splanchnic hyperdynamic circulation. The main underlying mechanism of the benefits of GTPs appears related to the down-regulation of splanchnic angiogenesis. The present study adds further evidence supporting the potential of natural compounds for an effective nutriceutical approach to the treatment of patients with cirrhosis of the liver.
Electromagnetic and thermal study of low loss and compact air dielectric stripline in X‐band
Authors: Bonnet S. , Campovecchio M. , Verdeyme S. , Lienhart M.Y. , Le Diouron J. , Dravet A. , Estebe E.
Published: December 2013

The concept of a microwave transmission line suspended in air, and a methodology for electromagnetic and thermal optimisation of these structures in X‐band (8–12 GHz) are reported. A reliable printed circuit process allows us to obtain compact, low loss and reproducible stripline structures. The measured stripline circuits demonstrate losses from only 4.2 to 5.2 dB/m at 9 GHz. The use of periodic ceramic contacts increases the power capability up to 50 W. The final structure is low loss and compact with high power handling in order to be used in power combination in the X‐band.
Signal‐to‐noise‐ratio maximisation for linear multi‐antenna relay communications
Authors: Shariat Mohammad Hassan , Biguesh Mehrzad , Gazor Saeed
Published: December 2013

The authors consider a linear relaying communication system using multiple antennas at a source, relay and destination. They maximise the end‐to‐end signal‐to‐noise‐ratio (SNR) to find the relay transformation (RT) and the source transmit covariance (STC) matrices. For any given STC matrix, to maximise the SNR, they prove that the relay has to assign all its power in the direction of the dominant eigenmodes of the source–relay and the relay–destination channels. They also find the joint optimal rank‐one matrices for the STC and RT. They prove that this solution also maximises the source–destination mutual information among all rank‐one matrices. Furthermore, they find the optimal power budgets allocated to the source and relay that maximise the SNR under a constraint on the total transmit power of the system. This is a practical solution as only three positive quantities need to be communicated among the nodes to calculate these optimal power budgets. Interestingly, the authors computer simulations for multiple users reveal that the sum‐rate significantly increases if users selfishly maximise their own SNRs using the proposed method, instead of maximising their own capacity. Thus, they conclude that the SNR‐maximisation is spectrally more efficient as it consumes only the best subspaces and leaves the other subspaces free.
Driving behaviour‐based event data recorder
Authors: Wu Bing‐Fei , Chen Ying‐Han , Yeh Chung‐Hsuan
Published: December 2013

A general event data recorder is a device installed in automobiles to record information related to vehicle crashes or accidents. The data provide a better understanding of how certain crashes come about. This study made a prototype of a driving behaviour‐based event data recorder (DBEDR), which provides the information of driving behaviours and a danger level. The authors approach is to recognise the seven behaviours: normal driving, acceleration, deceleration, changing to the left lane or right lane, zigzag driving and approaching the car in front by the hidden Markov models. All data were collected from a real vehicle and evaluated in a real road environment. The experimental results show that the proposed method achieved an average detection ratio of 95% for behaviour recognition. The danger level is inferred by fuzzy rules involved with the above behaviours. DBEDR recorded the recognised driving behaviours and the danger level, and the places were stored with the assistance of a global positioning system receiver. By integrating Google Maps, the locations, the driving behaviour occurrences, the danger level on the travel routes and the recorded images, the proposed DBEDR could be more useful compared with the traditional EDRs.
Viability of wall‐embedded tag antenna for ultra‐wideband real‐time suitcase localisation
Authors: Zaric Andela , Matos Valter S. , Costa Jorge R. , Fernandes Carlos A.
Published: December 2013

Viability of a conformal single‐layer monopole antenna is studied for a wall‐embedded tag in an ultra‐wideband (UWB) suitcase localisation application based on impulse radio UWB. The performance of the embedded antenna is simulated and confirmed experimentally in real‐time localisation (RTL) experiments carried out in a cluttered laboratory environment. Evaluation in the main planes shows average suitcase positioning error around 8 cm for worst‐case conditions. RTL tests are made when the suitcase is empty, when it is filled with common travelling items and also when it is shadowed by a second suitcase. A vector network analyser‐based measurement set‐up is used for target localisation error evaluation. Additionally, the same tests are repeated using portable commercial time‐domain transceivers with similar results.
Emission mitigation with short‐term wind statistics
Authors: Liu Xian
Published: December 2013

In electricity generation, one of the direct benefits of exploiting wind energy is reducing the atmospheric emissions due to using conventional fuels. An emission mitigation model for oxides of nitrogen has been developed with short‐term wind statistics, based on the Beta distribution. The probability infeasibility of random wind behaviour is taken into account. An optimisation model, based on economic dispatch models, is developed to minimise the impact caused by the oxides of nitrogen emissions.
Food-web structure in a subtropical coastal lake: how phylogenetic constraints may affect species linkages
Authors: Rodrigues Lúcia Ribeiro , Fontoura Nelson Ferreira , Marques David da Motta
Published: December 2013

To describe a food-web structure is a main goal in any attempt to understand ecosystem functioning. In the present study, we analysed the isotopic composition (δ13C and δ15N) of primary producers and consumers in the large subtropical Mangueira Lake in southern Brazil. On the basis of the δ13C and δ15N values and analysis of stomach contents of several fish species, we provide a description of the food-web structure and trophic positions of the dominant fish species. Analysis of nitrogen isotope ratios indicated the existence of two consumer trophic levels. Isotopic signatures of primary consumers were compatible with those of producers, indicating a food web sustained by autochthonous carbon. Nevertheless, when food items were classified in larger groups by relative size and source, the combined analysis of isotopic signature and feeding preferences revealed a phylogenetically structured arrangement for the fish species of Mangueira Lake. This indicates that the main feeding niches are shared by taxonomically related species.
Customary and recreational fishing pressure: large-bodied fish assemblages in a tropical, intermittent Australian river
Authors: Close Paul G. , Dobbs Rebecca J. , Tunbridge David J. , Speldewinde Peter C. , Warfe Danielle M. , Toussaint Sandy , Davies Peter M.
Published: December 2013

Permanent waterholes in intermittent rivers of northern Australia support a diverse piscifauna and are popular areas for customary and recreational fishing. The present preliminary study explored the perception that fishing reduces the abundance of targeted, large-bodied species that become restricted to disconnected waterholes during the distinct dry season. River sites in the Fitzroy River catchment, Western Australia, could be clearly classified as experiencing either high or low fishing pressure by using metrics of human ‘accessibility’. The abundance of Hephaestus jenkinsi and Lates calcarifer, targeted by both recreational and customary fishers was highly correlated with accessibility and showed a negative relationship with fishing pressure. Non-target species showed no discernible trend. We estimated that 38% of river length remains subject to relatively low fishing pressure. These preliminary relationships suggest that fish harvest can potentially alter the structure of fish assemblages in disconnected habitats. The potential impact of fishing on the sustainability of fish populations is, most likely, greatest for non-diadromous species and will become more apparent with increasing distance from recolonisation sources. Combining management techniques that maintain recolonisation and recruitment potential with traditional fisheries management strategies (e.g. bag and size limits) presents a suitable approach to mitigate the effects of fish harvesting from tropical intermittent rivers.
Evidence supporting Davallia canariensis as a Late Miocene relict endemic to Macaronesia and Atlantic Europe
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Schneider Harald
Published: December 2013

The present study investigated the hypothesis that several fern species occurring in Macaronesia and Atlantic Europe are relicts of the Miocene Paratethyan–Tethyan flora that survived in Macaronesia refugia. The hypothesis was tested by reconstructing the phylogenetic relationships of the derived fern Davallia canariensis, which is the only species of a mainly South-east Asian family, Davalliaceae, occurring naturally in Europe, Macaronesia and northern Africa. The dataset comprised a comprehensive taxonomic sampling of the family, with representatives of the five major lineages and ~50–60% of the extant species diversity. For each species, we included two coding regions of the chloroplast genome, namely, atpB and rbcL. Diversification times were estimated considering previous estimates of the crown and stem group age as well as the fossil record of Davalliaceae. The results were consistent with the hypothesis, by recovering D. canariensis as the only extant member of an isolated lineage that has been separated from other crown group Davalliaceae since the Late Miocene. The obtained results are discussed in the context of the Messinian salinity crisis, evolution of epiphytic habit in ferns, and the generic classification of Davalliaceae.
Combining management based indices with environmental parameters to explain regional variation in soil carbon under dryland cropping in South Australia
Authors: Macdonald Lynne M. , Herrmann Tim , Baldock Jeffrey A.
Published: December 2013

Identifying drivers of variation in soil organic carbon (OC) at a regional scale is often hampered by a lack of historical management information. Focusing on red-brown-earth soils (Chromosol) under dryland agriculture in the Mid-North and Eyre Peninsula of South Australia, our aims were 2-fold: (i) to provide a baseline of soil OC stocks (0.3 m) and OC fractions (mid-infrared predictions of particulate, humus, and resistant OC in 0.1 m samples) in cropping and crop-pasture systems; and (ii) to evaluate whether the inclusion of management-based indices could assist in explaining regional-level variation in OC stocks and fractions. Soil OC stocks in both regions varied ~20 Mg ha–1, with higher OC stocks in the Mid-North (38 Mg ha–1) than the Eyre Peninsula (29.1 Mg ha–1). The humus OC fraction was the dominant fraction, while the particulate OC was the most variable. Environmental variables only partially explained soil OC variability, with vapour pressure deficit (VPD) offering the greatest potential and likely acting as an integrator of temperature and moisture on plant growth and decomposition processes. Differences between broad-scale cropping and crop–pasture systems were limited. In the Mid-North, variability in soil OC stocks and fractions was high, and could not be explained by environmental or management variables. Higher soil OC concentrations (0.1 m) in the Eyre Peninsula cropping than crop–pasture soils were largely accounted for in the particulate OC fraction and are therefore unlikely to represent a long-term stable OC pool. Use of the management data in index format added some explanatory power to the variability in OC stocks over the main environmental variables (VPD, slope) within the Eyre Peninsula cropping soils only. In the wider context, the management data were useful in interpreting differences between regional findings and highlighted difficulties in using uninformed, broad-scale management categories.
Fundamentals of plant biotechnology.
Authors: Loose M. de , Depicker A.
Published: December 2013

This chapter presents the importance of biotechnology in plant breeding, discussing breeding and mutagenesis, polyploidization, somatic hybridization, transgenesis or genetic modification, and molecular marker technology. The importance of genetically modified organism technology to plant breeding is also described, presenting the different steps of developing a transgenic crop, from isolation and functional analysis of genes encoding a particular trait; the assembly of a functional gene construct; transfer and integration of the gene construct into the genome; identification of elite events and breeding with the elite events; to preparation of the authorization dossier, needed for commercialization. Future prospects are given.
Guidance documents for nutritional and safety assessment of feeds from GM plants.
Authors: Liu Yi Liu Yi , Christodoulidou A. , Dumont A. F. , Germini A. , Paoletti C.
Published: December 2013

This chapter discusses the safety and nutritional assessment of transgenic plants and their derived products in the European Union. The nutritional and safety assessment of transgenic plants in other parts of the world is also summarized briefly.
Compositional analysis for nutritional and safety assessment of feeds from GM plants.
Authors: Kleter G. , Kok E.
Published: December 2013

The use of compositional analysis of transgenic plants in order to assess the nutritional and safety aspects for animal feeding as part of the regulatory assessment is described.
Feeding studies with firstgeneration GM plants (input traits) with food-producing animals.
Authors: Flachowsky G.
Published: December 2013

The results of feeding trials using first generation transgenic plants (with simple input traits such as increased resistance to pests, tolerance against herbicides, efficient use of water and/or nutrients and/or increased resistance against heat and drought) in livestock are presented. It was shown that feeding studies with feeds from first-generation transgenic plants in food-producing animals do not add substantial knowledge to feed science and animal nutrition because of the substantial equivalence of such plants/feeds to their isogenic counterparts.
Feeding studies with secondgeneration GM plants (output traits) with food-producing animals.
Authors: Flachowsky G.
Published: December 2013

The results of feeding trials using second generation transgenic plants (with output traits and substantial changes in composition) in livestock are presented.
Influence of feeds from GM plants on composition/quality of food of animal origin.
Authors: Flachowsky G.
Published: December 2013

This chapter presents the results of studies on the effect of feeding transgenic plants to livestock on the chemical composition, nutritive value and quality of milk, meat and eggs. It was shown that feeds from first-generation transgenic plants did not significantly influence the composition and quality of food of animal origin, while feeds from second-generation crops (with output traits) may influence the composition and quality of foods of animal origin, especially in the case of fatty acids. Minerals and vitamins from biofortified plants can be stored in some organs or may be excreted via milk and/or eggs.
Feed additives produced by GM microorganisms (GMMs).
Authors: Wright A. von
Published: December 2013

The potential and actual applications of genetically modified microorganisms (GMMs) in animal probiotics, digestibility enhancers, silage additives, preservatives and amino acids for technological and nutritional purposes and biomasses obtained as side streams (coproduct of feed additives) of biotechnological industries are described, with emphasis on safety, efficacy and regulatory aspects of GMMs in feed uses in the European Union (EU).
The pipeline of GM crops for improved animal feed: challenges for commercial use.
Authors: Tillie P. , Dillen K. , Rodríguez-Cerezo E.
Published: December 2013

This chapter discusses the quality traits of transgenic plants for animal nutrition, including low phytate content, amino acid content, improved digestibility and enhanced oil content, and the prospects they offer and the challenges that remain to be addressed.
Socio-economic aspects of growing GM crops.
Authors: Qaim M.
Published: December 2013

While emotional public controversies continue, there is a growing body of literature providing empirical evidence on the impacts of GM crops in different countries. This chapter reviews recent socioeconomic studies, focusing on peer-reviewed academic papers. Studies on the farm-level impacts of herbicide-tolerant and insect-resistant crops are reviewed. Moreover, some macro-level research looking at global impacts are summarized. Finally, the potential effects of future GM crop applications, including crops with other improved agronomic traits and nutritional traits, are discussed.
Public acceptance of GM plants.
Authors: Scholderer J. , Verbeke W.
Published: December 2013

This chapter sheds light on the mechanics of public acceptance of GM plants. It covers: the buying behaviour of consumers; the political attitudes held by citizens; the adoption decisions made by farmers; the role of food manufacturers and retailers; and the world of pressure groups and lobbying.
Fundamental movement skills and weight status in British primary school children
Authors: Bryant Elizabeth S. , Duncan Michael J. , Birch Samantha L.
Published: December 2013

Weight status has been shown to have a negative impact on children's competence in performing fundamental movement skills (FMSs). Following ethics approval and informed consent, 281 children in years 2–6 from a school in central England volunteered to participate. Each child performed eight FMSs (run, hop, gallop, jump, balance, kick, throw and catch) three times, all attempts were video‐recorded. Video analysis was performed (Quintic Biomechanics software) using the Process Orient Checklist (subjective measurement). Height and weight were measured to calculate body mass index (BMI) and weight status was determined. Results highlighted that year group (age) had a significant effect on seven out of the eight skills (not kick). Year 4 (aged 8–9 years) significantly scored lower in all three locomotor skills (run, hop and gallop) at this age, whereas Year 5 (aged 9–10 years) all significantly peaked at the object control skills (catch and throw) at this age. Weight status (BMI) significantly affected the run, identifying that a child with a larger BMI will have a lower mastery level of the run. Gender significantly affected the kick, throw and balance, with girls outperforming in the balance and the boys in the kick and throw. By highlighting that children at different ages will have a lower score in different skills, the effect of BMI and gender on certain FMS is important knowledge for the target of intervention in primary school children.
μ-Patterning of Carbon Nanotube (CNT) forest for MEMS applications
Authors: Saleh T
Published: December 2013

This paper proposes three new approaches for micro patterning of CNT forest in order to make it useful for MEMS based applications. The first two techniques are based on micro electro discharge machining (μ-EDM). However, the biggest problem associated with μ–EDM is the spark gap which limits the structural resolution of the fabricated pattern. In order to overcome this challenge the first technique proposed in this paper is reverse μ–EDMing of CNT forest where the CNTs are used as cathode instead of tungsten tool. This dramatically reduces discharge voltage hence the spark gap. In the second method Sulphur Hexafluoride (SF6) SF6was used as dielectric instead of air which has three time higher dielectric strength than air. This helps to reduce spark gap further. This research work also discusses the experimental results when SF6was used as dielectric medium for reverse EDMing CNT forest. It was observed that at too low voltage (~10V) air gives lower spark gap than SF6, however at moderately high voltage (~25V) SF6performs better. Finally, the third approach for patterning CNT forest described in this paper is mechanical bending of CNTs. In this method patterning of CNT forest is carried out by moving a rotating cylindrical μ–tool (3000RPM) in X,Y and Z direction. The Z movement of the tool is controlled in step mode to provide the overall depth of the μ–structures with 1 (μm/step. In XY plane the tool moves continuously at 1mm/min speed. The movement of the tool on the CNT forest causes the CNTs to be bent and flattened in the direction of the tool motion hence the patterns are formed on bare CNT forest. The most significant observation made from the processed CNT forest is the visible optical reflection from bent and flattened area. Typically, CNT forest is known to be the darkest material on earth. However, this new processing technique causes the CNT surface to reflect light like mirror. A detail comparison between all proposed techniques (mechanical and reverse (μ–EDM) for patterning CNT forest is also included in this paper.
SIRT1 gene expression upon genotoxic damage is regulated by APE1 through nCaRE-promoter elements
Authors: Antoniali Giulia , Lirussi Lisa , D'Ambrosio Chiara , Dal Piaz Fabrizio , Vascotto Carlo , Casarano Elena , Marasco Daniela , Scaloni Andrea , Fogolari Federico , Tell Gianluca
Published: December 2013

Apurinic/apyrimidinic endonuclease 1 (APE1) is a multifunctional protein contributing to genome stability via repair of DNA lesions via the base excision repair pathway. It also plays a role in gene expression regulation and RNA metabolism. Another, poorly characterized function is its ability to bind to negative calcium responsive elements (nCaRE) of some gene promoters. The presence of many functional nCaRE sequences regulating gene transcription can be envisioned, given their conservation within ALU repeats. To look for functional nCaRE sequences within the human genome, we performed bioinformatic analyses and identified 57 genes potentially regulated by APE1. We focused on sirtuin-1 (SIRT1) deacetylase due to its involvement in cell stress, including senescence, apoptosis, and tumorigenesis, and its role in the deacetylation of APE1 after genotoxic stress. The human SIRT1 promoter presents two nCaRE elements stably bound by APE1 through its N-terminus. We demonstrate that APE1 is part of a multiprotein complex including hOGG1, Ku70, and RNA Pol II, which is recruited on SIRT1 promoter to regulate SIRT1 gene functions during early response to oxidative stress. These findings provide new insights into the role of nCaRE sequences in the transcriptional regulation of mammalian genes.
The novel centriolar satellite protein SSX2IP targets Cep290 to the ciliary transition zone
Authors: Klinger Maren , Wang Wenbo , Kuhns Stefanie , Bärenz Felix , Dräger-Meurer Stefanie , Pereira Gislene , Gruss Oliver J.
Published: December 2013

In differentiated human cells, primary cilia fulfill essential functions in converting mechanical or chemical stimuli into intracellular signals. Formation and maintenance of cilia require multiple functions associated with the centriole-derived basal body, from which axonemal microtubules grow and which assembles a gate to maintain the specific ciliary proteome. Here we characterize the function of a novel centriolar satellite protein, synovial sarcoma X breakpoint–interacting protein 2 (SSX2IP), in the assembly of primary cilia. We show that SSX2IP localizes to the basal body of primary cilia in human and murine ciliated cells. Using small interfering RNA knockdown in human cells, we demonstrate the importance of SSX2IP for efficient recruitment of the ciliopathy-associated satellite protein Cep290 to both satellites and the basal body. Cep290 takes a central role in gating proteins to the ciliary compartment. Consistent with that, loss of SSX2IP drastically reduces entry of the BBSome, which functions to target membrane proteins to primary cilia, and interferes with efficient accumulation of the key regulator of ciliary membrane protein targeting, Rab8. Finally, we show that SSX2IP knockdown limits targeting of the ciliary membrane protein and BBSome cargo, somatostatin receptor 3, and significantly reduces axoneme length. Our data establish SSX2IP as a novel targeting factor for ciliary membrane proteins cooperating with Cep290, the BBSome, and Rab8.
Seasonal Vitamin D Status of Healthy Schoolchildren and Predictors of Low Vitamin D Status
Authors: Karagüzel Gülay , Dilber Beril , Çan Gamze , Ökten Ayşenur , Değer Orhan , Holick Michael F.
Published: December 2013

Objectives:

The aim of the study was to assess seasonal prevalence of vitamin D deficiency according to sex and to determine the relations between serum levels of 25‐hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] and parathyroid hormone (PTH) and sociodemographic characteristics in otherwise healthy schoolchildren during spring and autumn.

Methods:

In a cross‐sectional study, 746 healthy students aged between 11 and 18 years were recruited during spring (n = 375) and autumn (n = 371). Sociodemographic data were collected by a questionnaire. Serum 25(OH)D, PTH, calcium, phosphate, and alkaline phosphatase were measured. Serum 25(OH)D levels were categorized as <50 nmol/L (vitamin D deficiency) and <25 nmol/L (severe deficiency).

Results:

Mean ± standard deviation 25(OH)D levels were 22.3 ± 10.5 nmol/L in girls and 28.5 ± 17.0 nmol/L in boys during spring (P < 0.001) and 36.5 ± 20.3 nmol/L in girls and 45.0 ± 18.5 nmol/L in boys during autumn (P < 0.001). The prevalence of vitamin D deficiency was 93% during spring and 71% during autumn. There was a negative correlation between 25(OH)D and PTH levels (P < 0.01). We determined a cutoff point of serum 25(OH)D in which the mean serum PTH concentration began to increase as 35.8 nmol/L (P < 0.0001). The age, sex, and calcium level were found to be independent predictors for vitamin D deficiency.

Conclusions:

Vitamin D deficiency is prevalent among healthy schoolchildren. It is noteworthy that 25(OH)D levels were significantly lower in girls and during autumn. We recommend vitamin D supplementation for children in addition to more time spent for outdoor activities for sensible sunlight exposure.
Use of Upper Gastrointestinal Series Before Gastrostomy Tube Placement
Authors: Larson‐Nath Catherine M. , Wagner Amy J. , Goday Praveen S.
Published: December 2013

We studied the use of a preoperative upper gastrointestinal series in children with and without major congenital anomalies undergoing gastrostomy tube (G‐tube) placement. Of 1163 children evaluated, 743 had major anomalies and a total of 39 episodes of malrotation were found. All of the children with malrotation had either major congenital anomalies or cystic fibrosis. Our study suggests that an upper gastrointestinal series may be unnecessary before G‐tube placement in children without other congenital anomalies or cystic fibrosis.
Neural cell alignment by patterning gradients of the extracellular matrix protein laminin
Authors: Chelli Beatrice , Barbalinardo Marianna , Valle Francesco , Greco Pierpaolo , Bystrenova Eva , Bianchi Michele , Biscarini Fabio
Published: December 2013

Anisotropic orientation and accurate positioning of neural cells is achieved by patterning stripes of the extracellular matrix protein laminin on the surface of polystyrene tissue culture dishes by micromoulding in capillaries (MIMICs). Laminin concentration decreases from the entrance of the channels in contact with the reservoir towards the end. Immunofluorescence analysis of laminin shows a decreasing gradient of concentration along the longitudinal direction of the stripes. The explanation is the superposition of diffusion and convection of the solute, the former dominating at length scales near the entrance (characteristic length around 50 μm), the latter further away (length scale in excess of 900 μm). These length scales are independent of the channel width explored from about 15 to 45 μm. Neural cells are randomly seeded and selectively adhere to the pattern, leaving the unpatterned areas depleted even upon 6 days of incubation. Cell alignment was assessed by the orientation of the long axis of the 4′,6-diamidino-2-phenylindole-stained nuclei. Samples on patterned the laminin area exhibit a large orientational order parameter. As control, cells on the unpatterned laminin film exhibit no preferential orientation. This implies that the anisotropy of laminin stripes is an effective chemical stimulus for cell recruiting and alignment.
Interaction of Photoperiod and Vernalization Determines Flowering Time of Brachypodium distachyon
Authors: Ream Thomas S. , Woods Daniel P. , Schwartz Christopher J. , Sanabria Claudia P. , Mahoy Jill A. , Walters Eric M. , Kaeppler Heidi F. , Amasino Richard M.
Published: December 2013

Timing of flowering is key to the reproductive success of many plants. In temperate climates, flowering is often coordinated with seasonal environmental cues such as temperature and photoperiod. Vernalization is an example of temperature influencing the timing of flowering and is defined as the process by which a prolonged exposure to the cold of winter results in competence to flower during the following spring. In cereals, three genes (VERNALIZATION1 [VRN1], VRN2, and FLOWERING LOCUS T [FT]) have been identified that influence the vernalization requirement and are thought to form a regulatory loop to control the timing of flowering. Here, we characterize natural variation in the vernalization and photoperiod responses in Brachypodium distachyon, a small temperate grass related to wheat (Triticum aestivum) and barley (Hordeum vulgare). Brachypodium spp. accessions display a wide range of flowering responses to different photoperiods and lengths of vernalization. In addition, we characterize the expression patterns of the closest homologs of VRN1, VRN2 (VRN2-like [BdVRN2L]), and FT before, during, and after cold exposure as well as in different photoperiods. FT messenger RNA levels generally correlate with flowering time among accessions grown in different photoperiods, and FT is more highly expressed in vernalized plants after cold. VRN1 is induced by cold in leaves and remains high following vernalization. Plants overexpressing VRN1 or FT flower rapidly in the absence of vernalization, and plants overexpressing VRN1 exhibit lower BdVRN2L levels. Interestingly, BdVRN2L is induced during cold, which is a difference in the behavior of BdVRN2L compared with wheat VRN2 during cold.
5-Chloro-2-methylsulfanyl-6-(naphthalen-1-yloxy)-1H-benzimidazole methanol monosolvate
Authors: Flores-Ramos Miguel , Castillo Rafael , Hernández-Campos Alicia , Flores-Alamo Marcos
Published: December 2013

In the title compound, C18H13ClN2OS·CH3OH, the dihedral angle between the benzimidazole group and the naphthyloxy moiety [82.89 (5)°] very near to orthogonality. The H atom in the five-membered ring is disordered with equal occupancies at the two N atoms and the H atom of the methanolic hydroxy group is disordered with equal occupancies over two sites at the O atom. The methanol molecule acts as a hydrogen-bond acceptor for the amino H atom and donates a hydrogen bond to the nonprotonated ring N atom. As a result, chains are formed running along the a axis.
(E)-3-Amino-4-(2-phenylhydrazinylidene)-1H-pyrazol-5(4H)-one. Corrigendum
Authors: Elgemeie Galal H. , Sayed Shahinaz H. , Jones Peter G.
Published: December 2013

The title in the paper by Elgemeie et al. [Acta Cryst. (2013), E69, o187] is corrected.
Identification of Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway in dermal papilla cells of human scalp hair follicles: TCF4 regulates the proliferation and secretory activity of dermal papilla cell
Authors: Xiong Ya , Liu Yi , Song ZhiQiang , Hao Fei , Yang XiChuan
Published: December 2013

It is clear that the dermal papilla cell (DPC), which is located at the bottom of the hair follicle, is a special mesenchymal component, and it plays a leading role in regulating hair follicle development and periodic regeneration. Recent studies showed that the Wnt signaling pathway through β‐catenin (canonical Wnt signaling pathway) is an essential component in maintaining the hair‐inducing activity of the dermal papilla and growth of hair papilla cells. However, the intrinsic pathways and regulating mechanism are largely unknown. In the previous work, we constructed a cDNA subtractive library of DPC and first found that the TCF4 gene, as a key factor of Wnt signaling pathway, was expressed as the upregulated gene of the hair follicle in low‐passage DPC. This study was to explore the role of TCF4 in regulating the proliferation and secretory activity of DPC. We constructed a pcDNA3.0–TCF4 expression vector and transfected it into DPC to achieve stable expression by bangosome 2000. Furthermore, we used the method of chemosynthesis to synthesize three pairs of TCF4 siRNA and transfected them into DPC. Meanwhile, we compared the transfection group and non‐transfection group. We first proposed that there was expression difference in TCF4 in DPC under different biological condition. This study may have a high impact on the molecular mechanism of follicular lesions and provide a new vision for the treatment of clinic diseases.
Pruritus: Do Aδ fibers play a role?
Authors: Tekatas Aslan , Arican Ozer , Guler Sibel , Aynacı Ozer , Dincer Nejla
Published: December 2013

Neuropathological and molecular basis of pruritus has not been clarified and the presence of certain specific neural circuits have been proposed. Our aim in this study was to evaluate the role of Aδ fibers in the neural circuits of pruritus by cutaneous silent period (CSP). Thirty‐six patients with chronic idiopathic generalized pruritus and 32 healthy controls were enrolled in the study. CSP and nerve conduction studies of upper and lower extremities were performed in both groups. Latencies of CSP in the upper and lower extremities were observed to be prolonged in the patient group compared with the controls while durations were shortened (all P < 0.001). However, these values were not correlated with sex, age, duration or severity of the disease (all P > 0.05). Our data suggest that pruritus may be developed by a nerve conduction abnormality in the afferent fibers of Aδ, or cortical hypersensitivity, abnormality of the cortical inhibitory mechanisms or lack of inhibition in the intermediate spinal inhibitory neurons generating CSP. This topic needs to be evaluated thoroughly in larger series with more detailed studies.
Phase II study of i.v. interferon‐gamma in Japanese patients with mycosis fungoides
Authors: Sugaya Makoto , Tokura Yoshiki , Hamada Toshihisa , Tsuboi Ryoji , Moroi Yoichi , Nakahara Takeshi , Amano Masahiro , Ishida Syuichi , Watanabe Daisuke , Tani Mamori , Ihn Hironobu , Aoi Jun , Iwatsuki Keiji
Published: December 2013

A multisite, open‐label, non‐randomized, single‐arm phase II study was conducted to evaluate the efficacy and safety profiles of interferon‐γ in Japanese patients diagnosed with stage IA–IIIA mycosis fungoides (MF). Interferon‐γ was administrated i.v. to 15 patients at a dose of 2 million Japan reference units once daily over 5 days a week for the first 4 weeks, followed by subsequent intermittent injection. The primary efficacy end‐point was the overall skin response during the study as assessed according to the evaluation criteria for chemotherapeutics for malignant skin carcinomas. Of the 15 patients, 11 (73.3%) achieved the objective response. Of the other four patients, three remained on treatment during study with stable disease and one showed disease progression. The median duration of stable disease was not reached but was 170 days or more (range, 29 to ≥253 days). As assessed according to the modified severity weighted assessment tool, nine patients (60.0%) achieved the objective response. The most common drug‐related adverse event (AE) was influenza‐like illness occurring in all patients enrolled, which did not lead to discontinuation of the study. Two serious AE were reported in two patients: aggravation of MF and aggravation of cataract, neither of which was considered directly related to the study drug. The patient with aggravation of MF died 50 days after the initiation of the study treatment. Another patient was withdrawn from the study due to drug‐related cough, which disappeared after discontinuation of the drug. Overall, interferon‐γ was effective and well‐tolerated in Japanese patients with MF.
Democracy in crisis? The declining support for national democracy in European countries, 2007–2011
Authors: Armingeon Klaus , Guthmann Kai
Published: December 2013

The Great Recession that started in 2007/2008 has been the worst economic downturn since the crisis of the 1930s in Europe. It led to a major sovereign debt crisis, which is arguably the biggest challenge for the European Union (EU) and its common currency. Not since the 1950s have advanced democracies experienced such a dramatic external imposition of austerity and structural reform policies through inter‐ or supranational organisations such as the EU and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) or as implicitly requested by international financial markets. Did this massive interference with the room for maneuver of parliaments and governments in many countries erode support for national democracy in the crisis since 2007? Did citizens realise that their national democratic institutions were no longer able to effectively decide on major economic and social policies, on economic and welfare state institutions? And did they react by concluding that this constrained democracy no longer merited further support? These are the questions guiding this article, which compares 26 EU countries in 2007–2011 and re‐analyses 78 national surveys. Aggregate data from these surveys is analysed in a time‐series cross‐section design to examine changes in democratic support at the country level. The hypotheses also are tested at the individual level by estimating a series of cross‐classified multilevel logistic regression models. Support for national democracy – operationalised as satisfaction with the way democracy works and as trust in parliament – declined dramatically during the crisis. This was caused both by international organisations and markets interfering with national democratic procedures and by the deteriorating situation of the national economy as perceived by individual citizens.
Gender, political participation and electoral systems: A cross‐national analysis
Authors: Beauregard Katrine
Published: December 2013

This article investigates whether the smaller gender gaps in political engagement, found in more proportional electoral systems, translate into smaller gender differences in political participation. Using data from the Comparative Study of Electoral Systems, it presents the argument that more proportional systems may send signals that multiple interests are included in the policy‐making process, which may increase women's levels of political participation and thereby reduce gender gaps. Additionally, the article tests for the possibility that a greater number of political parties and the elected representatives they provide act as barriers to political participation that have a greater impact on women's levels of participation than men's. It is argued that women's lower levels of political resources and engagement might create more difficult barriers for them than for men. Results lend little support for the first hypothesis, but a greater confirmation for the second.
Support for radical left ideologies in Europe
Authors: Visser Mark , Lubbers Marcel , Kraaykamp Gerbert , Jaspers Eva
Published: December 2013

This article examines support for radical left ideologies in 32 European countries. It thus extends the relatively scant empirical research available in this field. The hypotheses tested are derived mainly from group‐interest theory. Data are deployed from the 2002–2010 European Social Surveys (N = 174,868), supplemented by characteristics at the country level. The results show that, also in the new millennium, unemployed people and those with a lower income are more likely to support a radical left ideology. This is only partly explained by their stronger opinion that governments should take measures to reduce income differences. In contrast to expectations, the findings show that greater income inequality within a country is associated with reduced likelihood of an individual supporting a radical left ideology. Furthermore, cross‐national differences in the likelihood of supporting the radical left are strongly associated with whether a country has a legacy of an authoritarian regime.
Diagnostic gene expression biomarkers of coral thermal stress
Authors: Kenkel C. D. , Sheridan C. , Leal M. C. , Bhagooli R. , Castillo K. D. , Kurata N. , McGinty E. , Goulet T. L. , Matz M. V.
Published: December 2013

Gene expression biomarkers can enable rapid assessment of physiological conditions in situ, providing a valuable tool for reef managers interested in linking organism physiology with large‐scale climatic conditions. Here, we assessed the ability of quantitative PCR (qPCR)‐based gene expression biomarkers to evaluate (i) the immediate cellular stress response (CSR) of Porites astreoides to incremental thermal stress and (ii) the magnitude of CSR and cellular homeostasis response (CHR) during a natural bleaching event. Expression levels largely scaled with treatment temperature, with the strongest responses occurring in heat‐shock proteins. This is the first demonstration of a ‘tiered’ CSR in a coral, where the magnitude of expression change is proportional to stress intensity. Analysis of a natural bleaching event revealed no signature of an acute CSR in normal or bleached corals, indicating that the bleaching stressor(s) had abated by the day of sampling. Another long‐term stress CHR‐based indicator assay was significantly elevated in bleached corals, although assay values overall were low, suggesting good prospects for recovery. This study represents the first step in linking variation in gene expression biomarkers to stress tolerance and bleaching thresholds in situ by quantifying the severity of ongoing thermal stress and its accumulated long‐term impacts.
Effectiveness and safety of rapid clozapine titration in schizophrenia
Authors: Ifteni P. , Nielsen J. , Burtea V. , Correll C. U. , Kane J. M. , Manu P.
Published: December 2013

Objective

Clinical guidelines recommend slow clozapine dose titration in order to decrease the risk of seizures and hypotension. The recommendation may delay adequate control of severe psychotic symptoms. We evaluated the safety and effectiveness of rapid clozapine titration in patients who had been previously exposed to the drug and in patients who received clozapine for the first time after failing to respond to other antipsychotics.

Method

Analysis of hospital course of a consecutive cohort of schizophrenia patients (N = 111) who received 25–100 mg of clozapine as needed every 6 h the first treatment day, followed by upward adjustments of 25–100 mg/day.

Results

Symptom control was obtained with an average dose of 353 ± 174 mg/day after 4.1 ± 3.1 days in the 73 patients previously treated with clozapine. For the 38 patients initially started on other antipsychotics, the average clozapine dose required for symptom control (409 ± 188 mg/day) was reached after 7.1 ± 4.8 days. None of the patients had seizures, severe hypotension or other major adverse reactions.

Conclusion

In this naturalistic cohort study rapid clozapine titration appeared safe and effective for the treatment of schizophrenia. The results justify controlled clinical trials of this treatment method.
Explaining Japan's Unproductive Two Decades
Authors: Fukao Kyoji
Published: December 2013

Using industry‐ and micro‐level data, this paper examines why Japan's productivity growth has been slow for such a long time and how it can be accelerated in the future. Japan's capital–gross domestic product ratio continued to increase after 1991, and this increase in the capital–gross domestic product ratio must have contributed to the decline in the rate of return on capital in Japan by decreasing the marginal productivity of capital. On the other hand, Japan's accumulation of information and communication technology capital and intangible investment was very slow. Compared with large firms, which enjoyed an acceleration in the total factor productivity growth in recent years, Japanese small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises were left behind in information and communication technology capital and intangible investment, and their productivity growth has been very low. Furthermore, as large firms expanded their supply chains globally and relocated their factories abroad, research and development spillovers from large firms to small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises seem to have declined.