bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cytokine gene expression profiles during initiation, progression and resolution of periodontitis
Authors: Ebersole Jeffrey L. , Kirakodu Sreenatha , Novak Michael John , Stromberg Arny J. , Shen Shu , Orraca Luis , Gonzalez‐Martinez Janis , Burgos Armando , Gonzalez Octavio A.
Published: July 2014

Aim

Variations in the expression of cytokines during the progression of periodontitis remain ill‐defined. We evaluated the expression of 19 cytokine genes related to T‐cell phenotype/function during initiation, progression and resolution of periodontitis, and related these to the expression of soft and bone tissue destruction genes (TDGs).

Materials and Methods

A ligature‐induced periodontitis model was used in rhesus monkeys (M. mulatta) (n = 18). Gingival tissues were taken at baseline pre‐ligation, 2 weeks and 1 month (Initiation) and 3 months (progression) post ligation. Ligatures were removed and samples taken 2 months later (resolution). Total RNA was isolated and the Rhesus Gene 1.0 ST (Affymetrix) used for gene expression analysis. Significant expression changes were validated by qRT‐PCR.

Results

Disease initiation/progression was characterized by overexpression of Th17/Treg cytokine genes (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TGFβ and IL‐21) and down‐regulation of Th1/Th2 cytokine genes (IL‐18 and IL‐25). Increased IL‐2 and decreased IL‐10 levels were seen during disease resolution. Several Th17/Treg cytokine genes positively correlated with TDGs, whereas most Th1/Th2 genes exhibited a negative correlation.

Conclusion

Initiation, progression and resolution of periodontitis involve over‐ and underexpression of cytokine genes related to various T‐helper subsets. In addition, variations in individual T‐helper response subset/genes during disease progression correlated with protective/destructive outcomes.
Epidemic trend of diabetes in China
Authors: Chen Xiaoping , Yang Wenying
Published: July 2014

Epidemiology is now well recognized as the foundation of public health. The Da Qing study in 1986 was the first milestone study to show that lifestyle intervention can prevent or delay the onset of diabetes. The lead investigator of that study, Professor Xiaoren Pan, is regarded as the forerunner epidemiologist for diabetes in China and even in Asia. In 2006, study participants were followed up to assess the long‐term effects of the interventions after 20 years. As compared with the control group, those in the combined lifestyle intervention group had a 51% lower incidence of diabetes during the active intervention period and a 43% lower incidence over the 20‐year period, adjusted by age. Recently, the National Diabetes Prevalence Survey in China was carried out from 2007 to 2008. The data from that study showed that the prevalence of diabetes in Chinese adults was 9.7%, and the increased rate of diabetes prevalence in China exceeded the International Diabetes Federation estimation. Very recently, we have reported that acarbose is a viable choice for initial therapy in Chinese patients newly diagnosed with type 2 diabetes who have a lower body mass index and exaggerated postprandial glucose excursion compared with Caucasian patients. We are expecting more contributions from epidemiology to the study of diabetes.
How traits shape trees: new approaches for detecting character state‐dependent lineage diversification
Authors: Ng J. , Smith S. D.
Published: July 2014

Biologists have long sought to understand the processes underlying disparities in clade size across the tree of life and the extent to which such clade size differences can be attributed to the evolution of particular traits. The association of certain character states with species‐rich clades suggests that trait evolution can lead to increased diversification, but such a pattern could also arise due other processes, such as directional trait evolution. Recent advances in phylogenetic comparative methods have provided new statistical approaches for distinguishing between these intertwined and potentially confounded macroevolutionary processes. Here, we review the historical development of methods for detecting state‐dependent diversification and explore what new methods have revealed about classic examples of traits that affect diversification, including evolutionary dead ends, key innovations and geographic traits. Applications of these methods thus far collectively suggest that trait diversity commonly arises through the complex interplay between transition, speciation and extinction rates and that long hypothesized evolutionary dead ends and key innovations are instead often cases of directional trends in trait evolution.
Gas chromatography mass spectrometry based metabolic profiling reveals biomarkers involved in rice‐gall midge interactions
Authors: Agarrwal Ruchi , Bentur Jagadish Sanmallappa , Nair Suresh
Published: July 2014

The Asian rice gall midge (Orseolia oryzae Wood‐Mason) is a serious pest of rice that causes huge loss in yield. While feeding inside the susceptible host, maggots secrete substances that facilitate the formation of a hollow tube‐like structure called gall and prevent panicle formation. The present investigation was carried out to get an account of biochemical changes occurring in the rice plant upon gall midge feeding. Metabolic profiling of host tissues from three rice varieties, namely, TN1, Kavya, and RP2068, exposed to gall midge biotype 1 (GMB1), was carried out using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‐MS). TN1 and GMB1 represented compatible interaction, while Kavya and GMB1 as well as RP2068 and GMB1 represented incompatible interactions. The current study identified several metabolites that could be grouped as resistance, susceptibility, infestation, and host features based on their relative abundance. These may be regarded as biomarkers for insect‐plant interaction in general and rice‐gall midge interaction in particular.
The impact of individual and organisational factors on engagement of individuals with intellectual disability living in community group homes: a multilevel model
Authors: Qian X. , Tichá R. , Larson S. A. , Stancliffe R. J. , Wuorio A.
Published: July 2014

Background

Being engaged in daily activities is a strong indicator of quality of life for individuals with intellectual disability (ID) who live in small community group homes. This study aimed to identify individual and organisational factors that predict high levels of engagement.

Method

Individuals withID(n = 78), direct support professionals (DSPs;n = 174) and supervisors (n = 21) from 21USgroup homes participated in the study. For each individual withID, we conducted 80 min of observation at the person's residence. Information was also gathered regarding demographic characteristics,DSPcompetence, supervisor years of experience and management practices. Data were analysed using multilevel modelling.

Results

On average, individuals were engaged in social activities 12% of observed time and non‐social activities 35% of the time. Individuals with greater adaptive skills who were supported by more competent staff showed significantly higher levels of social engagement. Individuals with less severe deficits in adaptive behaviours and less challenging behaviour showed higher levels of non‐social engagement. Although none of the factors related to group homes were significant, 24% of the variance in non‐social engagement existed among group homes.

Conclusion

These results suggested that engagement is a dynamic construct. The extent to which an individual withIDis engaged in daily life is a result of interplay between the individual's characteristics and the group home environment. Future research is needed to investigate the influence of variables specific to the group home on the engagement level of individuals with disabilities.
Associations Between Family of Origin Climate, Relationship Self‐Regulation, and Marital Outcomes
Authors: Hardy Nathan R. , Soloski Kristy L. , Ratcliffe G. Cole , Anderson Jared R. , Willoughby Brian J.
Published: July 2014

Using dyadic data from 961 married couples from the Relationship Evaluation Questionnaire project, the current study explored the direct association between family of origin climate and marital outcomes and the indirect association via relationship self‐regulation (RSR). Results from the actor–partner interdependence model analysis indicated that family of origin climate was positively associated with marital stability directly and indirectly via the effects of RSR and marital satisfaction for both men and women. Results suggest that the experience one has in their family of origin is associated with their marital outcomes through their RSR. Actor–partner direct and indirect effects indicate that spouses' RSR may have important consequences for both partner's evaluation of the marriage. Implications for intervention and future research are discussed.
Threshold Selection Criteria for Quantification of Lumbosacral Cerebrospinal Fluid and Root Volumes from MRI
Authors: Puigdellívol‐Sánchez Anna , Reina Miguel Angel , San‐Molina Juan , Escobar José Manuel , Castedo Julio , Prats‐Galino Alberto
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The high variability of CSF volumes partly explains the inconsistency of anesthetic effects, but may also be due to image analysis itself. In this study, criteria for threshold selection are anatomically defined.

METHODS

T2 MR images (n = 7 cases) were analyzed using 3‐dimentional software. Maximal–minimal thresholds were selected in standardized blocks of 50 slices of the dural sac ending caudally at the L5‐S1 intervertebral space (caudal blocks) and middle L3 (rostral blocks). Maximal CSF thresholds: threshold value was increased until at least one voxel in a CSF area appeared unlabeled and decreased until that voxel was labeled again: this final threshold was selected. Minimal root thresholds: thresholds values that selected cauda equina root area but not adjacent gray voxels in the CSF–root interface were chosen.

RESULTS

Significant differences were found between caudal and rostral thresholds. No significant differences were found between expert and nonexpert observers. Average max/min thresholds were around 1.30 but max/min CSF volumes were around 1.15. Great interindividual CSF volume variability was detected (max/min volumes 1.6–2.7).

CONCLUSIONS

The estimation of a close range of CSF volumes which probably contains the real CSF volume value can be standardized and calculated prior to certain intrathecal procedures.
Health Information Technology Workforce Needs of Rural Primary Care Practices
Authors: Skillman Susan M. , Andrilla C. Holly A. , Patterson Davis G. , Fenton Susan H. , Ostergard Stefanie J.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

This study assessed electronic health record (EHR) and health information technology (HIT) workforce resources needed by rural primary care practices, and their workforce‐related barriers to implementing and using EHRs and HIT.

Methods

Rural primary care practices (1,772) in 13 states (34.2% response) were surveyed in 2012 using mailed and Web‐based questionnaires.

Findings

EHRs or HIT were used by 70% of respondents. Among practices using or intending to use the technology, most did not plan to hire new employees to obtain EHR/HIT skills and even fewer planned to hire consultants or vendors to fill gaps. Many practices had staff with some basic/entry, intermediate and/or advanced‐level skills, but nearly two‐thirds (61.4%) needed more staff training. Affordable access to vendors/consultants who understand their needs and availability of community college and baccalaureate‐level training were the workforce‐related barriers cited by the highest percentages of respondents. Accessing the Web/Internet challenged nearly a quarter of practices in isolated rural areas, and nearly a fifth in small rural areas. Finding relevant vendors/consultants and qualified staff were greater barriers in small and isolated rural areas than in large rural areas.

Discussion/Conclusions

Rural primary care practices mainly will rely on existing staff for continued implementation and use of EHR/HIT systems. Infrastructure and workforce‐related barriers remain and must be overcome before practices can fully manage patient populations and exchange patient information among care system partners. Efforts to monitor adoption of these skills and ongoing support for continuing education will likely benefit rural populations.
Nest building in a Mediterranean wrasse (Symphodus ocellatus): are the algae used randomly chosen or actively selected?
Authors: Sinopoli Mauro , Cattano Carlo , Chemello Renato , Timpanaro Angela , Timpanaro Valeria , Gristina Michele
Published: July 2014

To increase their reproductive success, fish species have evolved various strategies, including both simple processes and more complex mechanisms that involve parental care by nest‐building. In Symphodus ocellatus, a species that lives in rocky infralittoral zones of the Mediterranean Sea, during the reproductive period, the male builds a nest within a hole or crevice using fragments of algae and/or sand particles. Data on the nesting activity of wrasses are rare, and previous descriptions regarding the algal composition of nests have provided conflicting results. In this regard, it is unclear whether territorial males actively select algal species for nest construction or algal choice is random and depends exclusively on the algal species available in the surrounding habitat. To clarify this, several S. ocellatus nests and the algal community near the nests were sampled. The specific algal composition of the nest, the Strauss selectivity index of the used algae, the mechanical strength and the ability of the algae to accommodate eggs were investigated to examine overall nest performance. Our findings show that the dominant male ocellated wrasse deliberately selects algae when building the nest. The mechanical strength and ability of the algae to accommodate eggs is of particular importance. Among the species commonly used for nest‐building, Jania rubens performed the best. Our results show that J. rubens provides resistance to biochemical decomposition and wave action.
Conspicuous Consumption, Inequality and Debt: The Nature of Consumption‐driven Profit‐led Regimes
Authors: Kapeller Jakob , Schütz Bernhard
Published: July 2014

This paper extends the theoretical concept of wage‐led and profit‐led demand regimes by incorporating relative consumption concerns. Specifically, it integrates the Veblenian concept of conspicuous consumption into the Bhaduri–Marglin model by assuming that relative consumption concerns matter primarily within the working class. If in such a framework the profit share increases and the corresponding decrease in workers' income is distributed unevenly, efforts to ‘keep up with the Joneses’ may increase consumption and, hence, lead to a consumption‐driven profit‐led regime.
Excitatory amino acid transporter 2 downregulation correlates with thalamic neuronal death following kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus in rat
Authors: Sakurai Masashi , Kurokawa Haruna , Shimada Akinori , Nakamura Kazuhiro , Miyata Hajime , Morita Takehito
Published: July 2014

Recurrent seizures without interictal resumption (status epilepticus) have been reported to induce neuronal death in the midline thalamic region that has functional roles in memory and decision‐making; however, the pathogenesis underlying status epilepticus‐induced thalamic neuronal death is yet to be determined. We performed histological and immunohistochemical studies as well as cerebral blood flow measurement using 4.7 tesla magnetic resonance imaging spectrometer on midline thalamic region in Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 75, male, 7 weeks after birth, body weight 250–300 g) treated with intraperitoneal injection of kainic acid (10 mg/kg) to induce status epilepticus (n = 55) or normal saline solution (n = 20). Histological study using paraffin‐embedded specimens revealed neuronal death showing ischemic‐like changes and Fluoro‐Jade C positivity with calcium deposition in the midline thalamic region of epileptic rats. The distribution of neuronal death was associated with focal loss of immunoreactivity for excitatory amino acid transporter 2 (EAAT2), stronger immunoreaction for glutamate and increase in number of Iba‐1‐positive microglial cells showing swollen cytoplasm and long processes. Double immunofluorescence study demonstrated co‐expression of interleukin‐1 beta (IL‐1β) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) within microglial cells, and loss of EAAT2 immunoreactivity in reactive astrocytes. These microglial alterations and astrocytic EAAT2 downregulation were also observed in tissue without obvious neuronal death in kainic acid‐treated rats. These results suggest the possible role of glutamate excitotoxicity in neuronal death in the midline thalamic region following kainic acid‐induced status epilepticus due to astrocytic EAAT2 downregulation following microglial activation showing upregulation of IL‐1β and iNOS.
A comparative evaluation of analgo‐sedative effects of oral dexmedetomidine and ketamine: a triple‐blind, randomized study
Authors: Singh Charanjeet , Pandey Ramesh K. , Saksena Anil K. , Chandra Girish
Published: July 2014

Background

Use of sedative agents for difficult to manage children during dental procedures has been indicated for years, but neither the agent nor the route has been found to be ideal.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate and compare the efficacy and safety of oral dexmedetomidine (D) and ketamine (K) in producing moderate sedation among uncooperative pediatric dental patients.

Methods

This prospective, triple‐blind, randomized comparative study included 112 ASA grade I children of both sexes aged 3–10 years, who satisfied all the inclusion criteria. They were randomly divided into four groups and ketamine 8 mg·kg−1 (K) or dexmedetomidine 3 μg·kg−1 (D1), 4 μg·kg−1 (D2) and 5 μg·kg−1 (D3) were given orally. Similar dental procedures were performed in these patients, and effects of these drugs were assessed in terms of changes in vital signs, onset and duration of sedation, analgesia, and amnesia. Secondary outcomes such as level of sedation, behavior, adverse effects, and overall success were also measured.

Results

The onset of sedation was significantly rapid with K and D3 as compared to D1 and D2. Recovery from sedation was fastest in group D1. Intra‐ and postoperative analgesia and anterograde amnesia were highest with K and least with D1, while D3 produced analgesia comparable to K. In K treated group, vomiting was observed in five patients and two patients exhibited emergence phenomenon. Overall, highest success rate was observed in D3 group.

Conclusions

Given by oral route, the novel sedative dexmedetomidine provides dose‐dependent effective analgo‐sedation, comparable to ketamine, with less adverse effects.
Self‐evaluative consequences of social support receipt: The role of context self‐relevance
Authors: BURKE CHRISTOPHER T. , GOREN JESSICA
Published: July 2014

Past research suggests that receiving social support can increase distress if it threatens self‐esteem, self‐efficacy, or competence. These costs may be more apparent in self‐relevant contexts, as such concerns should be more salient in these situations. This research tests whether context self‐relevance moderates affective responses to support receipt and whether this pattern is mediated by self‐evaluation. We report support for these hypotheses in both a daily diary study (N = 304 couples) of real‐world stress and a laboratory experiment (N = 77 students) in which support receipt and task self‐relevance are manipulated. We discuss connections between this work and the broader literature on social support receipt, including how other social processes (e.g., social comparison) may contribute to the costs associated with support receipt.
The role of family in adolescents' peer acceptance
Authors: TAMM ANNI , KASEARU KAIRI , TULVISTE TIIA
Published: July 2014

The study examined the relative importance of the quality of relationships with parents and grandparents, maternal acceptance and control, the structure of the family, the number of siblings, and adolescents' own attachment style to their perceived peer acceptance. The sample consisted of 300 adolescents (mean age = 15.5) and 300 mothers (mean age = 41.5). Regarding the role of family relationships, the results indicated that only the quality of the mother–child relationship was related to adolescents' peer acceptance. Maternal acceptance and control, however, were unrelated to youth's perceptions of acceptance by peers. Adolescents who had more siblings, lived in a single‐mother family, and were high in anxious attachment reported lower peer acceptance.
RNA interference for the identification of ectoparasite vaccine candidates
Authors: Marr E. J. , Sargison N. D. , Nisbet A. J. , Burgess S. T. G.
Published: July 2014

Ectoparasites present a major challenge for disease management globally. With drug resistance increasingly observed in many disease‐causing species, the need for novel control measures is pressing. Ever‐expanding genomic resources from ‘next generation’ sequencing are now available for a number of arthropod ectoparasites, necessitating an effective means of screening these data for novel candidates for vaccine antigens or targets for chemotherapeutics. Such in vitro screening methods must be developed if we are to make discoveries in a timely and cost–effective manner. This review will discuss the potential that RNA interference (RNAi) has demonstrated thus far in the context of arthropod ectoparasites and the potential roles for this technology in the development of novel methods for parasite control.
Modulation of the blink reflex and P3 component of the startle response during an interoceptive challenge
Authors: Alius Manuela G. , Pané‐Farré Christiane A. , Löw Andreas , Hamm Alfons O.
Published: July 2014

The blink reflex component of the startle response is potentiated during processing of exteroceptive unpleasant stimuli. In contrast, blink magnitudes are often inhibited during interoceptive challenges. We measured respiration, blink magnitudes, and the P3 component to the acoustic startle probes in 34 participants while breathing against a mild resistance (mask‐with‐tubing) compared to breathing with no mask. Breathing through a mask with tubing resulted in increased inspiratory resistance as indicated by increased flow rate and tidal volume, a compensatory breathing pattern. Blink magnitudes to probes presented during the mask‐with‐tubing condition were inhibited compared to no‐mask. Likewise, the probe P3 component was smaller during breathing through a mild resistance. These data suggest that startle inhibition during interoceptive challenges might be due to a shift in attention towards the mildly unpleasant interoceptive stimuli.
Relative Income and Indebtedness: Evidence from Panel Data
Authors: Carr Michael D. , Jayadev Arjun
Published: July 2014

We examine patterns of indebtedness in the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, focusing on the period surrounding the housing bubble and its aftermath (i.e., 1999–2009). Leverage increased across households, but most quickly among lower income households during this period. We find additionally that leverage grew faster for households with lower relative income compared to other households in similar demographic groups or within a state controlling for own income. Together, these findings provide evidence for the thesis that the rising indebtedness of households in the U.S. is related to high levels of inequality, and that “Veblen effects,” whereby relative income matters for individual well‐being and decisions, may contribute to rising household indebtedness.
The Determinants of Time‐Varying Exchange Rate Pass‐Through in South Africa
Authors: Jooste Charl , Jhaveri Yaseen
Published: July 2014

The pass‐through of shifts in the rand exchange rate to consumer price inflation has been well documented for South Africa. Although estimates of the absolute level of pass‐through vary, some studies document a decline in pass‐through over time. In order to better illuminate the policy implications of pass‐through, this paper seeks to add to the literature by decomposing pass‐through into a number of time‐varying impulses. This has the advantage of providing deeper insights of pass‐through over time and across various monetary policy regimes. We then analyse the determinants of time‐varying pass‐through. Our results confirm that pass‐through has declined over time but is subject to a stable and low inflation environment. We also show that a volatile exchange rate leads to higher pass‐through.
Alterations in atrial perfusion during atrial fibrillation
Authors: Pacchia Christina F. , Dosdall Derek J. , Ranjan Ravi , DiBella Edward
Published: July 2014

New Findings

What is the topic of this review?

The topic of this review is the effects of atrial fibrillation (AF) on left atrial perfusion.

What advances does it highlight?

This review highlights the interplay between AF, ischaemia and fibrosis. Advances in fibrosis detection can better predict AF recurrence and effectiveness of ablative techniques; perfusion abnormalities may hold more clinical relevance than once thought.

Left atrial (LA) perfusion during disease states has been a topic of much interest, because the clinical implications and detrimental effects of lack of blood flow to the atria are numerous. In the chronic setting, changes in perfusion may lead to LA ischaemia and structural remodelling, a factor implicated in the self‐perpetuation of chronic atrial fibrillation (AF). The association between AF and altered LA perfusion has been studied, but a direct causal association between perfusion changes and AF has not been established. A comprehensive literature search of Medline, Embase and Google Scholar databases was conducted from 1960 to February 2014. We systematically analysed reference lists of physiological articles and reviews for other possibly relevant studies. The aim of this review is to provide a comprehensive discussion of the AF‐mediated changes in LA perfusion and the potential mechanisms underlying the alterations in coronary flow to the LA in this setting. In addition, we discuss the clinical contexts in which changes in LA perfusion may be relevant. Finally, this article highlights the need for longitudinal studies of AF that would elucidate the changes in LA perfusion resulting from chronic AF and lead to advancements in effective treatments to prevent progression of this disease.
Action of the isolated canine diaphragm on the lower ribs at high lung volumes
Authors: De Troyer André , Wilson Theodore A.
Published: July 2014

Key points

Subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and hyperinflation commonly have an inward displacement of the lateral walls of the lower rib cage during inspiration. This paradoxical displacement, conventionally called ‘Hoover's sign’, is traditionally attributed to the pull by radially oriented diaphragmatic muscle fibres.

In this study in anaesthetized dogs, we measured the displacement of the lower ribs during isolated spontaneous diaphragm contraction at different lung volumes, and determined the separate effects on rib displacement of pleural pressure and of the force exerted by the diaphragm.

The results show that diaphragm contraction at low lung volumes causes an inspiratory displacement of the lower ribs, but this is progressively reversed into an expiratory displacement as lung volume increases. However, the effect of the force exerted by the diaphragm on the ribs remains inspiratory at all lung volumes.

These observations suggest that Hoover's sign is usually caused by the dominant expiratory effect of pleural pressure on the lower ribs, rather than an inward pull from the diaphragm.

The normal diaphragm has an inspiratory action on the lower ribs, but subjects with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease commonly have an inward displacement of the lateral portions of the lower rib cage during inspiration. This paradoxical displacement, conventionally called ‘Hoover's sign’, has traditionally been attributed to the direct action of radially oriented diaphragmatic muscle fibres. In the present study, the inspiratory intercostal muscles in all interspaces in anaesthetized dogs were severed so that the diaphragm was the only muscle active during inspiration. The displacements of the lower ribs along the craniocaudal and laterolateral axes and the changes in pleural pressure (∆Ppl) and transdiaphragmatic pressure were measured during occluded breaths and mechanical ventilation at different lung volumes between functional residual capacity (FRC) and total lung capacity. From these data, the separate effects on rib displacement of ∆Ppl and of the force exerted by the diaphragm on the ribs were determined. Isolated spontaneous diaphragm contraction at FRC displaced the lower ribs cranially and outward, but this motion was progressively reversed into a caudal and inward motion as lung volume increased. However, although the force exerted by the diaphragm on the ribs decreased with increasing volume, it continued to displace the ribs cranially and outward. These observations suggest that Hoover's sign is usually caused by the decrease in the zone of apposition and, thus, by the dominant effect of ∆Ppl on the lower ribs, rather than an inward pull from the diaphragm.
Ano1, a Ca2+‐activated Cl− channel, coordinates contractility in mouse intestine by Ca2+ transient coordination between interstitial cells of Cajal
Authors: Singh Raman Deep , Gibbons Simon J. , Saravanaperumal Siva Arumugam , Du Peng , Hennig Grant W. , Eisenman Seth T. , Mazzone Amelia , Hayashi Yujiro , Cao Chike , Stoltz Gary J. , Ordog Tamas , Rock Jason R. , Harfe Brian D. , Szurszewski Joseph H. , Farrugia Gianrico
Published: July 2014

Key points

Ano1, a Ca2+‐activated Cl− channel, is expressed in interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) throughout the gut. We report here that it is required to maintain coordinated Ca2+ transients within myenteric ICC of mouse small intestine. Ca2+ transients in Ano1 WT mice were rhythmic and coordinated whereas uncoordinated Ca2+ transients were seen in knockout mice.

Ca2+ transients were un‐coordinated following pharmacological block of Ano1 in WT mice using niflumic acid, 5‐nitro‐2‐(3‐phenylpropylamino) benzoic acid and 4,4′‐diisothiocyanato‐2,2′‐stilbenedisulfonic acid disodium salt. Transient knockdown of Ano1 in organotypic cultures with short hairpin RNA to Ano1 in WT tissues also caused loss of coordinated Ca2+ transients.

Contractility of Ano1 knockout mouse intestinal segments in organ bath experiments was significantly decreased, less coordinated and non‐rhythmic. Spatiotemporal maps from knockout mouse small intestine also showed loss of phasic contractile activity.

This study provides important information on the basic mechanisms driving coordinated contractile activity in the gastrointestinal tract.

Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) are pacemaker cells that generate electrical activity to drive contractility in the gastrointestinal tract via ion channels. Ano1 (Tmem16a), a Ca2+‐activated Cl− channel, is an ion channel expressed in ICC. Genetic deletion of Ano1 in mice resulted in loss of slow waves in smooth muscle of small intestine. In this study, we show that Ano1 is required to maintain coordinated Ca2+ transients between myenteric ICC (ICC‐MY) of small intestine. First, we found spontaneous Ca2+ transients in ICC‐MY in both Ano1 WT and knockout (KO) mice. However, Ca2+ transients within the ICC‐MY network in Ano1 KO mice were uncoordinated, while ICC‐MY Ca2+ transients in Ano1 WT mice were rhythmic and coordinated. To confirm the role of Ano1 in the loss of Ca2+ transient coordination, we used pharmacological inhibitors of Ano1 activity and shRNA‐mediated knock down of Ano1 expression in organotypic cultures of Ano1 WT small intestine. Coordinated Ca2+ transients became uncoordinated using both these approaches, supporting the conclusion that Ano1 is required to maintain coordination/rhythmicity of Ca2+ transients. We next determined the effect on smooth muscle contractility using spatiotemporal maps of contractile activity in Ano1 KO and WT tissues. Significantly decreased contractility that appeared to be non‐rhythmic and uncoordinated was observed in Ano1 KO jejunum. In conclusion, Ano1 has a previously unidentified role in the regulation of coordinated gastrointestinal smooth muscle function through coordination of Ca2+ transients in ICC‐MY.
Access devices for 3D crosspoint memory
Authors: Burr Geoffrey W. , Shenoy Rohit S. , Virwani Kumar , Narayanan Pritish , Padilla Alvaro , Kurdi Bülent , Hwang Hyunsang
Published: July 2014

The emergence of new nonvolatile memory (NVM) technologies—such as phase change memory, resistive, and spin-torque-transfer magnetic RAM—has been motivated by exciting applications such as storage class memory, embedded nonvolatile memory, enhanced solid-state disks, and neuromorphic computing. Many of these applications call for such NVM devices to be packed densely in vast “crosspoint” arrays offering many gigabytes if not terabytes of solid-state storage. In such arrays, access to any small subset of the array for accurate reading or low-power writing requires a strong nonlinearity in the IV characteristics, so that the currents passing through the selected devices greatly exceed the residual leakage through the nonselected devices. This nonlinearity can either be included explicitly, by adding a discrete access device at each crosspoint, or implicitly with an NVM device which also exhibits a highly nonlinear IV characteristic. This article reviews progress made toward implementing such access device functionality, focusing on the need to stack such crosspoint arrays vertically above the surface of a silicon wafer for increased effective areal density. The authors start with a brief overview of circuit-level considerations for crosspoint memory arrays, and discuss the role of the access device in minimizing leakage through the many nonselected cells, while delivering the right voltages and currents to the selected cell. The authors then summarize the criteria that an access device must fulfill in order to enable crosspoint memory. The authors review current research on various discrete access device options, ranging from conventional silicon-based semiconductor devices, to oxide semiconductors, threshold switch devices, oxide tunnel barriers, and devices based on mixed-ionic-electronic-conduction. Finally, the authors discuss various approaches for self-selected nonvolatile memories based on Resistive RAM.
Self-assembly of magnetite nanocubes into helical superstructures
Authors: Singh Gurvinder , Chan Henry , Baskin Artem , Gelman Elijah , Repnin Nikita , Král Petr , Klajn Rafal
Published: July 2014

Tuning the twisting in helical nanowires

Assembly of inorganic nanoparticles into complex structures often requires a template. Researchers can now assemble helical nanowires out of cubic magnetite nanocrystals by tuning interactions that bind or separate them. Singh
et al.
floated the nanocrystals on a liquid and aligned them with a magnetic field. After the liquid evaporated, different twisted nanowires remained. The helices varied according to the concentration of nanocrystals, their shape, and the strength of the magnetic field. Competition between weak forces drives this self-assembly and can lead to arrays with the same twist direction.

Science
, this issue p.
1149
Intense foreshocks and a slow slip event preceded the 2014 Iquique
M
w
8.1 earthquake
Authors: Ruiz S. , Metois M. , Fuenzalida A. , Ruiz J. , Leyton F. , Grandin R. , Vigny C. , Madariaga R. , Campos J.
Published: July 2014

The earthquake that rocked northern Chile

Subduction zones often produce the largest earthquakes on Earth. A magnitude 8.2 earthquake (Iquique) occurred in one such zone off the coast of northern Chile on 1 April 2014, in a seismic gap that had not experienced a large earthquake since the 9.0 one in 1877. Ruiz
et al.
analyzed continuous GPS data to monitor the movement of plates over time in this region, including before and after major earthquakes. The most recent large quake was preceded by an extended series of smaller earthquakes and creeping westward movement of the coastline.

Science
, this issue p.
1165
Draft Genome Sequence of Rickettsia aeschlimannii, Associated with
Hyalomma marginatum
Ticks
Authors: Sentausa Erwin , El Karkouri Khalid , Michelle Caroline , Raoult Didier , Fournier Pierre-Edouard
Published: July 2014

Rickettsia aeschlimannii
is a tick-associated human pathogen. We report here the draft genome of
R. aeschlimannii
strain MC16, isolated from
Hyalomma marginatum marginatum
ticks collected in Morocco.
Draft Genome Sequences of Two Marine Phototrophic Bacteria, Erythrobacter longus Strain DSM 6997 and Erythrobacter litoralis Strain DSM 8509
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Rui , Zheng Qiang , Jiao Nianzhi
Published: July 2014

Aerobic anoxygenic phototrophic bacteria (AAPB) are important functional groups and are widely distributed in the global upper ocean. Here we report the draft genomic sequences of two marine AAPB isolates belonging to the genus
Erythrobacter
,
Erythrobacter longus
strain DSM 6997 and
Erythrobacter litoralis
strain DSM 8509.
Whole-Genome Sequence of CMY-2 β-Lactamase-Producing Salmonella enterica Serovar Typhimurium Strain L-3553
Authors: Sekizuka Tsuyoshi , Lee Ken-ichi , Kuroda Makoto , Kusumoto Masahiro , Iwata Taketoshi , Uchida Ikuo , Tanaka Kiyoshi , Tamamura Yukino , Akiba Masato
Published: July 2014

Salmonella enterica
serovar Typhimurium pulsed-field gel electrophoresis cluster VII has been isolated from cattle populations in Japan since the mid-2000s. Some cluster VII isolates exhibited extended-spectrum cephalosporin resistance defined by the
bla
CMY-2
gene located in a chromosomal genomic island, GI-VII-6. We determined the whole-genome sequence of strain L-3553 as the reference strain.
Draft Whole Genome Sequence of Bacillus pumilus Strain 3-19, a Chemical Mutant Overproducing Extracellular Ribonuclease
Authors: Ulyanova Vera , Shah Mahmud Raihan , Dudkina Elena , Vershinina Valentina , Ilinskaya Olga
Published: July 2014

Here, we present a draft genome sequence of
Bacillus pumilus
strain 3-19. It was derived from soil-isolated
B. pumilus
7P using chemical mutagenesis and is characterized by elevated production of extracellular ribonuclease which is known to possess different biological activities with potential of applications in experimental research, medicine, and biotechnology.
Improved Draft Genome Sequence of Probiotic Strain Lactobacillus gasseri K7
Authors: Treven Primož , Trmčić Aljoša , Bogovič Matijašić Bojana , Rogelj Irena
Published: July 2014

Lactobacillus gasseri
K7 is an isolate from infant feces and has
in vitro
and
in vivo
established probiotic properties. Here, we report the improved version of the draft genome sequence, which comprises 8 scaffolds (13 contigs), a total length of 1.99 Mb, and 1,841 predicted protein-coding sequences.
Draft Genome Sequence of Listeria monocytogenes Strain LI0521 (syn. HPB7171), Isolated in 1983 during an Outbreak in Massachusetts Caused by Contaminated Cheese
Authors: Pightling Arthur W. , Lin Min , Pagotto Franco
Published: July 2014

Listeria monocytogenes
, a pathogenic food-borne bacterium, is the causative agent of both sporadic and outbreak cases of human listeriosis. Here, we present the genome sequence of
L. monocytogenes
reference strain LI0521, isolated during an outbreak involving contaminated cheese, which has been used as the model during several proteomic studies.
Draft Genome Sequence of Komagataeibacter rhaeticus Strain AF1, a High Producer of Cellulose, Isolated from Kombucha Tea
Authors: dos Santos Renato Augusto Corrêa , Berretta Andresa A. , Barud Hernane da Silva , Ribeiro Sidney José Lima , González-García Laura Natalia , Zucchi Tiago Domingues , Goldman Gustavo H. , Riaño-Pachón Diego M.
Published: July 2014

Here, we present the draft genome sequence of
Komagatabaeicter rhaeticus
strain AF1, which was isolated from Kombucha tea and is capable of producing high levels of cellulose.
Frontotemporal dementia: neuroanatomical correlates of an atypical presentation
Authors: Felix-Morais Ricardo , Letra Liliana , Duro Diana , Santana Isabel
Published: July 2014

Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by frontal and temporal lobes atrophy. Three different clinical subtypes are recognised: behavioural variant, progressive non-fluent aphasia and semantic dementia. Neuroanatomical associations in a diffuse neurodegenerative disease such as FTD should be interpreted carefully; however, each FTD subtype has provided a clinical model that has contributed immensely to our understanding of clinical/neuroanatomical relationships. This case report and recent studies suggest that neuroanatomical findings concerning face-processing mechanisms in FTD can identify the brain regions that are critical for face processing. As seen in this case, right fusiform gyrus atrophy seems to be implied in the aetiology of prosopagnosia.
Risk factors for bone metastasis in patients with primary lung cancer: study protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Niu Yu-Jie , Wen Yin-Tian , Shen Wei-Wei , Deng Lin , Liu Li-Li , Zhang He-Long
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Bone metastasis (BM) in patients with primary lung cancer poses a serious health problem. Numerous risk factors have been hypothesised to predict BM in these patients, but research studies are of mutable quality, and may not be of value in clinical evaluation.

Methods and analysis

We will search a number of electronic databases including PubMed, MEDLINE, Web of Science, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library (Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). We will carry out a secondary search for articles from references of included articles (from January 1990 to June 2014). Primary and secondary outcomes will be BM and skeletal-related events information. We will summarise the effect estimates of risk factors and use random-effect models to pool the estimates, if the outcomes and characteristics in studies are comparable. The quality of the study will be assessed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and the Cochrane Collaboration tool.

Trial registration number

CRD42013003744.
Does child–parent resemblance in body weight status vary by sociodemographic factors in the USA?
Authors: Zhang Qi , Lamichhane Rajan , Chen Hsin-Jen , Xue Hong , Wang Youfa
Published: July 2014

Background

Clustered obese parents and children are prevalent, but there is little knowledge about whether and how child–parent resemblance varies by sociodemographic groups.

Methods

This paper used nationally representative data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey III (NHANES: 1988–1994). We matched 4958 parents with 6765 children aged 2–16 years old for whom we had complete data on body mass index (BMI), overweight and obesity status. Correlation coefficients and κ statistics between parents’ and children's BMI and body weight status were calculated for different sociodemographic groups. Multivariate linear and logistic regression models were fit to study the child–parent resemblance and socioeconomic and demographic differences in the resemblance.

Results

The child–parent correlation coefficients for BMI were greater in Caucasians than in minorities and greater in groups with higher socioeconomic status. The mother–child resemblance in BMI was negatively associated with child age (p<0.001). The mother–daughter resemblance in overweight was significantly lower in non-Hispanic blacks (OR=0.53, 95% CI (0.36 to 0.78)) and Mexican Americans (OR=0.58, 95% CI (0.36 to 0.93)) than in Caucasians. The father–child resemblance in overweight was significantly lower in high school graduates compared with those with less-than-high-school-graduate fathers (OR=0.53, 95% CI (0.37 to 0.77) for father–son dyads and OR=0.69, 95% CI (0.50 to 0.96) for father–daughter dyads). Similar results were found for parent–child resemblance in obesity.

Conclusions

Child–parent resemblance in body weight status exists across sociodemographic groups in the USA, but it varies by demographics and socioeconomic status.
Amenable mortality by household income and living arrangements: a linked register-based study of Finnish men and women in 2000–2007
Authors: Manderbacka Kristiina , Peltonen Riina , Martikainen Pekka
Published: July 2014

Background

Mortality amenable to healthcare interventions has increasingly been used as an indirect indicator of the effect of healthcare on health inequalities. Studies have consistently shown socioeconomic differences in amenable mortality, but evidence on the joint effects of multiple socioeconomic and demographic factors is limited. We examined whether income and living arrangements have an independent effect on amenable mortality taking into account other dimensions of social position.

Methods

The longitudinal and yearly updated individual level data were derived from different administrative registers and obtained from Statistics Finland. The data set includes an 11% random sample of all individuals aged 25–74 years at the end of 1999 and an 80% oversample of deaths in the follow-up period between 2000 and 2007. We used Cox proportional hazard regression with appropriate weights.

Results

We found twofold to threefold differences in amenable mortality between the top and bottom income quintiles. These differences were found to be largely attenuated by economic activity and living arrangements. We also found differences in amenable mortality by living arrangements suggesting that those living alone, as well as lone parents and those cohabiting have higher amenable mortality. These differences were largely independent of our indicators of socioeconomic position and economic activity.

Conclusions

While our results give indirect support to the hypothesis that income differences in amenable mortality may be at least partially due to barriers in access to care, the large independent effects of living arrangements on amenable mortality suggest that seeking care may also have an impact.
ZOOM STRUCTURES AND REACTION SYSTEMS YIELD EXPLORATION SYSTEMS
Authors: EHRENFEUCHT ANDRZEJ , ROZENBERG GRZEGORZ
Published: July 2014

In this paper we extend the framework of reaction systems by introducing (extended) zoom structures which formalize a depository of knowledge of a discipline of science. The integrating structure of such a depository (which is a well-founded partial order) allows one to deal with the hierarchical nature of biology. This leads to the notion of an exploration system [Formula: see text] which consists of (1) a static part which is a depository of knowledge given by an extended zoom structure [Formula: see text], and (2) a dynamic part given by a family of reaction systems [Formula: see text]. In this setup the depository of knowledge [Formula: see text] is explored by computations/processes provided by reaction systems from [Formula: see text], where this exploration can use/integrate knowledge present on different levels (e.g., atomic, cellular, organism, species, … levels).
TRACTABLE AND INTRACTABLE VARIATIONS OF UNORDERED TREE EDIT DISTANCE
Authors: YAMAMOTO YOSHIYUKI , HIRATA KOUICHI , KUBOYAMA TETSUJI
Published: July 2014

In this paper, we investigate the problem of computing structural sensitive variations of an unordered tree edit distance. First, we focus on the variations tractable by the algorithms including the submodule of a network algorithm, either the minimum cost maximum flow algorithm or the maximum weighted bipartite matching algorithm. Then, we show that both network algorithms are replaceable, and hence the time complexity of computing these variations can be reduced to O(nmd) time, where n is the number of nodes in a tree, m is the number of nodes in another tree and d is the minimum degree of given two trees. Next, we show that the problem of computing the bottom-up distance is MAX SNP-hard. Note that the well-known linear-time algorithm for the bottom-up distance designed by Valiente (2001) computes just a bottom-up indel (insertion-deletion) distance allowing no substitutions.