bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structure of 4-methylsulfanyl-2-phenylquinazoline
Authors: Alshammari Mohammed B. , Smith Keith , Hegazy Amany S. , Kariuki Benson M. , El-Hiti Gamal A.
Published: July 2014

In the title compound, C15H12N2S, the methylthioquinazoline group is planar with the methyl C displaced by only 0.116 (3) Å from the plane of the quinazoline moiety. The dihedral angle between the phenyl ring and the quinazoline ring system is 13.95 (5)°. In the crystal, each molecule is linked by π–π stacking between to two adjacent inversion-related molecules. On one side, the inverted quinazoline groups interact with a centroid–centroid distance of 3.7105 (9) Å. On the other side, the quinazoline group interacts with the pyrimidine and phenyl rings of the second neighbour with centroid–centroid distances of 3.5287 (8) and 3.8601 (9) Å, respectively.
6-Amino-3-methyl-4-(3,4,5-trimethoxyphenyl)-2,4-dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole-5-carbonitrile
Authors: Sharma Naresh , Brahmachari Goutam , Banerjee Bubun , Kant Rajni , Gupta Vivek K.
Published: July 2014

In the title compound, C17H18N4O4, the dihedral angle between the benzene ring and 2,4-dihydropyrano[2,3-c]pyrazole ring system is 89.41 (7)°. The pyran moiety adopts a strongly flattened boat conformation. In the crystal, molecules are linked by N—H...N, N—H...O, C—H...N and C—H...O hydrogen bonds into an infinite two-dimensional network parallel to (110). There are π–π interactions between the pyrazole rings in neighbouring layers [centroid–centroid distance = 3.621 (1) Å].
Pelanserin: 3-[3-(4-phenylpiperazin-1-yl)propyl]quinazoline-2,4(1H,3H)-dione
Authors: Aguirre Hernández Gerardo , Somanathan Ratnasamy , Bernès Sylvain
Published: July 2014

The title compound, C21H24N4O2, is a potent serotonin 5-HT2and α1-adrenoceptor antagonist. Then-propyl chain links the quinazolinedione heterocycle and the phenylpiperazine group in which the benzene ring is equatorially located and the piperazine ring has the expected chair conformation. The dihedral angle between the planes of the benzene ring and the quinazolinedione ring system is 74.1 (1)°. In the crystal, molecules form centrosymmetric dimers throughR22(8) hydrogen-bonded rings involving the amine and one carbonyl group of the quinazolinedione moiety. These dimers are extended into chains extending along thea-axis direction through expanded centrosymmetric cyclic C—H...O associations involving the second carbonyl group, givingR22(20) andR12(7) motifs.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of YidC, a membrane-protein chaperone and insertase fromBacillus halodurans
Authors: Kumazaki Kaoru , Tsukazaki Tomoya , Nishizawa Tomohiro , Tanaka Yoshiki , Kato Hideaki E. , Nakada-Nakura Yoshiko , Hirata Kunio , Mori Yoshihiro , Suga Hiroaki , Dohmae Naoshi , Ishitani Ryuichiro , Nureki Osamu
Published: July 2014

YidC, a member of the YidC/Oxa1/Alb3 family, inserts proteins into the membrane and facilitates membrane-protein folding in bacteria. YidC plays key roles in both Sec-mediated integration and Sec-independent insertion of membrane proteins. Here,Bacillus haloduransYidC2, which has five transmembrane helices conserved among the other family members, was identified as a target protein for structure determination by a fluorescent size-exclusion chromatography analysis. The protein was overexpressed, purified and crystallized in the lipidic cubic phase. The crystals diffracted X-rays to 2.4 Å resolution and belonged to space groupP21, with unit-cell parametersa= 43.9,b= 60.6,c= 58.9 Å, β = 100.3°. The experimental phases were determined by the multiwavelength anomalous diffraction method using a mercury-derivatized crystal.
Structures of a human blood group glycosyltransferase in complex with a photo-activatable UDP-Gal derivative reveal two different binding conformations
Authors: Jørgensen René , Batot Gaëlle , Mannerstedt Karin , Imberty Anne , Breton Christelle , Hindsgaul Ole , Royant Antoine , Palcic Monica M.
Published: July 2014

Glycosyltransferases (GTs) catalyse the sequential addition of monosaccharides to specific acceptor molecules and play major roles in key biological processes. GTs are classified into two main families depending on the inverted or retained stereochemistry of the glycosidic bond formed during the reaction. While the mechanism of inverting enzymes is well characterized, the precise nature of retaining GTs is still a matter of much debate. In an attempt to clarify this issue, studies were initiated to identify reaction-intermediate states by using a crystallographic approach based on caged substrates. In this paper, two distinct structures of AA(Gly)B, a dual-specificity blood group synthase, are described in complex with a UDP-galactose derivative in which the O6′′ atom is protected by a 2-nitrobenzyl group. The distinct conformations of the caged substrate in both structures of the enzyme illustrate the highly dynamic nature of its active site. An attempt was also made to photolyse the caged compound at low temperature, which unfortunately is not possible without damaging the uracil group as well. These results pave the way for kinetic crystallography experiments aiming at trapping and characterizing reaction-intermediate states in the mechanism of enzymatic glycosyl transfer.
Crystallization and preliminary X-ray diffraction analysis of a single variable domain of the immunoglobulin superfamily in amphioxus,Amphi-IgSF-V
Authors: Jiang Bo , Liu Yanjie , Chen Rong , Wang Zhenbao , Tariq Mansoor , Xia Chun
Published: July 2014

Amphioxus is regarded as an essential animal model for the study of immune evolution. Discovery of new molecules with the immunoglobulin superfamily (IgSF) variable (V) domain in amphioxus would help in studying the evolution of IgSF V molecules in the immune system. A protein was found which just contains only one IgSF V domain in amphioxus, termedAmphi-IgSF-V; it has over 30% sequence identity to the V domains of human immunoglobulins and mammalian T-cell receptors. In order to clarify the three-dimensional structure of this new molecule in amphioxus,Amphi-IgSF-V was expressed, purified and crystallized, and diffraction data were collected to a resolution of 1.95 Å. The crystal belonged to space groupP3221, with unit-cell parametersa=b= 53.9,c= 135.5 Å. The Matthews coefficient and solvent content were calculated to be 2.58 Å3 Da−1and 52.38%, respectively. The results will provide structural information to study the evolution of IgSF V molecules in the immune system.
Crystallographic characterization of the C-terminal coiled-coil region of mouse Bicaudal-D1 (BICD1)
Authors: Terawaki Shin-ichi , Ootsuka Hiroki , Higuchi Yoshiki , Wakamatsu Kaori
Published: July 2014

Bicaudal-D1 (BICD1) is an α-helical coiled-coil protein which is evolutionarily conserved fromDrosophilato mammals and facilitates the attachment of specific cargo factors to the dynein motor complex. The C-terminal coiled-coil region (CC3) of BICD1 plays an important role in sorting cargo, linking proteins such as the small GTPase Rab6 and the nuclear pore complex component Ran-binding protein 2 (RanBP2) to the dynein motor complex. This report describes the crystallization and X-ray data collection of the BICD1 CC3 region, as well as the preparation of the complex of BICD1 CC3 with a constitutively active mutant of Rab6. The crystals of the BICD1 CC3 region belonged to space groupC2, with unit-cell parametersa= 59.0,b= 36.8,c= 104.3 Å, α = γ = 90, β = 99.8°. The X-ray diffraction data set was collected to 1.50 Å resolution.
Overexpression, purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray characterization of the fourth scaffoldin A cohesin fromAcetivibrio cellulolyticusin complex with a dockerin from a family 5 glycoside hydrolase
Authors: Bule Pedro , Correia Ana , Cameron Kate , Alves Victor D. , Cardoso Vânia , Fontes Carlos M. G. A. , Najmudin Shabir
Published: July 2014

Cellulosomes are cell-bound multienzyme complexes secreted by anaerobic bacteria that play a crucial role in carbon turnover by degrading plant cell walls to simple sugars. Integration of cellulosomal components occursviahighly ordered protein–protein interactions between cohesin modules located in a molecular scaffold and dockerin modules found in cellulosomal enzymes.Acetivibrio cellulolyticuspossesses a complex cellulosome arrangement which is organized by a primary enzyme-binding scaffoldin (ScaA), two anchoring scaffoldins (ScaC and ScaD) and an unusual adaptor scaffoldin (ScaB). A dockerin from a family 5 glycoside hydrolase (GH5), which was engineered to inactivate one of the two putative cohesin-binding interfaces, complexed with one of the ScaA cohesins fromA. cellulolyticushas been purified and crystallized, and data were processed to a resolution of 1.57 Å in the orthorhombic space groupP212121.
Purification, crystallization and preliminary X-ray crystallographic studies of Rv3705c fromMycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Lu Feifei , Gao Feng , Li Honglin , Gong Weimin , Zhou Lin , Bi Lijun
Published: July 2014

The conserved protein Rv3705c fromMycobacterium tuberculosishas been cloned, expressed, purified and crystallized by the sitting-drop vapour-diffusion method using PEG 3350 as a precipitant. The Rv3705c crystals exhibited space groupP6122 orP6522, with unit-cell parametersa=b= 198.0,c= 364.1 Å, α = β = 90, γ = 120°, and diffracted to a resolution of 3.3 Å.
Chinese expert consensus workshop report: Guidelines for thermal ablation of primary and metastatic lung tumors
Authors: Ye Xin , Fan Weijun , Chen Jun‐hui , Feng Wei‐jian , Gu Shan‐zhi , Han Yue , Huang Guang‐hui , Lei Guang‐yan , Li Xiao‐guang , Li Yu‐liang , Li Zhen‐jia , Lin Zheng‐yu , Liu Bao‐dong , Liu Ying , Peng Zhong‐min , Wang Hui , Yang Wu‐wei , Yang Xia , Zhai Bo , Zhang Jun
Published: July 2014

Although surgical resection is the primary means of curing both primary and metastatic lung cancers, about 80% of lung cancers cannot be removed by surgery. As most patients with unresectable lung cancer receive only limited benefits from traditional radiotherapy and chemotherapy, many new local treatment methods have emerged, including local ablation therapy. The Minimally Invasive and Comprehensive Treatment of Lung Cancer Branch, Professional Committee of Minimally Invasive Treatment of Cancer of the Chinese Anti‐Cancer Association has organized multidisciplinary experts to develop guidelines for this treatment modality. These guidelines aim at standardizing thermal ablation procedures and criteria for selecting treatment candidates and assessing outcomes; and for preventing and managing post‐ablation complications.
Quality Indicators as a Tool in Improving the Introduction of New Medicines
Authors: Campbell Stephen M. , Godman Brian , Diogene Eduardo , Fürst Jurij , Gustafsson Lars L. , MacBride‐Stewart Sean , Malmström Rickard E. , Pedersen Hanne , Selke Gisbert , Vlahović‐Palčevski Vera , van Woerkom Menno , Wong‐Rieger Durhane , Wettermark Björn
Published: July 2014

Quality indicators are increasingly used as a tool to achieve safe and quality clinical care, cost‐effective therapy, for professional learning, remuneration, accreditation and financial incentives. A substantial number focus on drug therapy but few address the introduction of new medicines even though this is a burning issue. The objective was to describe the issues and challenges in designing and implementing a transparent indicator framework and evaluation protocol for the introduction of new medicines and to provide guidance on how to apply quality indicators in the managed entry of new medicines. Quality indicators need to be developed early to assess whether new medicines are introduced appropriately. A number of key factors need to be addressed when developing, applying and evaluating indicators including dimensions of quality, suggested testing protocols, potential data sources, key implementation factors such as intended and unintended consequences, budget impact and cost‐effectiveness, assuring the involvement of the medical professions, patients and the public, and reliable and easy‐to‐use computerized tools for data collection and management. Transparent approaches include the need for any quality indicators developed to handle conflict of interests to enhance their validity and acceptance. The suggested framework and indicator testing protocol may be useful in assessing the applicability of indicators for new medicines and may be adapted to healthcare settings worldwide. The suggestions build on existing literature to create a field testing methodology that can be used to produce country‐specific quality indicators for new medicines as well as a cross international approach to facilitate access to new medicines.
Neuropsychological performance of patients with soft bipolar spectrum disorders
Authors: Lin Kangguang , Xu Guiyun , Lu Weicong , Ouyang Huiyi , Dang Yamei , Guo Yangbo , So Kwok‐Fai , Lee Tatia MC
Published: July 2014

Objectives

There is much evidence that shows that a substantial number of individuals with DSM‐IV‐defined unipolar depression (UP) manifest hypomanic sub‐syndrome and bipolar diathesis. Other definitions have conceptualized the term soft bipolar spectrum (SBP) for these individuals. Little is known about the cognitive profiles of individuals with SBP. We hypothesized that they are representative of individuals with bipolar II disorder and are different from that of ‘strict’ UP.

Methods

Consecutive referrals suffering major depressive episodes were categorically assigned to groups of either bipolar I disorder (n = 98), bipolar II disorder (n = 138), or UP (n = 300). Based on the SBP criteria by Akiskal and Pinto (17), patients with UP were subdivided into 81 SBP and 219 strict UP. We administered self‐ and clinician‐administered scales to evaluate affective temperaments, and neuropsychological tests to assess seven cognitive domains.

Results

Patients with SBP performed significantly better than strict UP patients in the domains of processing speed (p = 0.002), visual‐spatial memory (p = 0.017), and verbal working memory (p = 0.017). Compared to patients with bipolar I disorder, patients with SBP were significantly better in set shifting (p < 0.001) and visual‐spatial memory (p = 0.042). Patients with SBP performed similarly to patients with bipolar II disorder in all of the cognitive domains tested (p > 0.05). There was a group × cognitive domain interaction effect between bipolar I disorder, bipolar II disorder, SBP, and strict UP groups [Pillai's F = 2.231, df = (18,1437), p = 0.002].

Conclusions

Our data suggest that patients with SBP differ from patients with UP not only in external validators (e.g., family history of bipolar disorder) and hypomanic symptoms, but also in neuropsychological performance and that the profiles of cognitive functioning were different across bipolar I disorder and ‘bipolar II spectrum’ that subsumes bipolar II disorder and SBP.
Mechanisms underlying the cytotoxicity of a novel quinazolinedione‐based redox modulator, QD232, in pancreatic cancer cells
Authors: Pathania Divya , Kuang Yuting , Sechi Mario , Neamati Nouri
Published: July 2014

Background and Purpose

Pancreatic cancer is characterized by alterations in several key signalling proteins, including increased expression and activity of the Src tyrosine kinase and focal adhesion kinase (FAK), which have been linked to its chemoresistance. Sustained Src inhibition reactivates survival pathways regulated by the transcription factor STAT3, also leading to resistance. Therefore, simultaneously targeting Src/FAK and STAT3 signalling could provide an important strategy for treating pancreatic cancer. Recently, we described novel quinazolinediones that increased generation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and were cytotoxic in pancreatic cancer cells. Here, we have investigated effects of our lead compound, QD232, on Src/FAK and STAT3 signalling.

Experimental Approach

The major signalling pathways affected by QD232 in pancreatic cancer cell lines were identified by Kinexus proteomic analysis. Changes in key signalling proteins were confirmed by Western blotting. Cell migration was assessed by Boyden chamber and wound healing assays. Direct inhibition of kinase activity in vitro was assayed with a panel of 92 oncogenic kinases. Safety and efficacy of QD232 were determined in a xenograft mouse model of pancreatic cancer.

Key Results

QD232 potently inhibited Src/FAK and STAT3 phosphorylation, decreasing pancreatic cancer cell viability and migration. Furthermore, QD232 arrested cell cycle progression and induced apoptosis in these cells at low micromolar concentrations. Effects of QD232 on Src/FAK and STAT3 phosphorylation were blocked by N‐acetylcysteine or glutathione.

Conclusions and Implications

QD232 is a novel compound with a unique, ROS‐dependent mechanism, effective in drug‐resistant cancer cell lines. This compound shows potential as therapy for pancreatic cancer.
Fluoride effectiveness in high caries risk and medically complex Veterans
Authors: Jurasic M. Marianne , Gibson Gretchen , Wehler Carolyn J. , Nunn Martha , Orner Michelle B. , Nunez Elizabeth , O'Toole Terry G. , Jones Judith A.
Published: July 2014

Background

The Global Burden of Disease Study showed there was a 34.5% increase in years lived with disability due to dental caries from 1990 to 2010. With the aging of 76 million baby boomers, dental caries will continue to pose a significant challenge for older adults.

Objective

Test the effectiveness of prescription or professionally applied fluoride in the prevention of new dental restorations in a clinical setting where patients are medically compromised and more dentally impaired than the general population.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study, using multiple electronic databases within the Department of Veterans Affairs. Propensity scores were used to adjust for confounding by indication and logistic regression modeled the outcome and included all expected covariates.

Results

The study sample included 140 114 high caries risk Veterans with a mean of 3.4 physical comorbidities, 1.2 mental comorbidities, and 11 medication groups per patient. Patients who received clinical fluoride treatments had 17–20% decreased odds of requiring a restoration during the follow‐up period.

Conclusions

Prescription self‐applied or professionally applied fluoride provided either before or during an episode of care significantly reduced the likelihood of new restorations in high caries risk and medically compromised Veterans.
Childhood exposure to ambient polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons is linked to epigenetic modifications and impaired systemic immunity in T cells
Authors: Hew K. M. , Walker A. I. , Kohli A. , Garcia M. , Syed A. , McDonald‐Hyman C. , Noth E. M. , Mann J. K. , Pratt B. , Balmes J. , Hammond S. Katharine , Eisen E. A. , Nadeau K. C.
Published: July 2014

Background

Evidence suggests that exposure to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) increases atopy; it is unclear how PAH exposure is linked to increased severity of atopic diseases.

Objective

We hypothesized that ambient PAH exposure is linked to impairment of immunity in atopic children (defined as children with asthma and/or allergic rhinitis) from Fresno, California, an area with elevated ambient PAHs.

Methods

We recruited 256 subjects from Fresno, CA. Ambient PAH concentrations (ng/m3) were measured using a spatial‐temporal regression model over multiple time periods. Asthma diagnosis was determined by current NHLBI criteria. Phenotyping and functional immune measurements were performed from isolated cells. For epigenetic measurements, DNA was isolated and pyrosequenced.

Results

We show that higher average PAH exposure was significantly associated with impaired Treg function and increased methylation in the forkhead box protein 3 (FOXP3) locus (P < 0.05), conditional on atopic status. These epigenetic modifications were significantly linked to differential protein expression of FOXP3 (P < 0.001). Methylation was associated with cellular functional changes, specifically Treg dysfunction, and an increase in total plasma IgE levels. Protein expression of IL‐10 decreased and IFN‐γ increased as the extent of PAH exposure increased. The strength of the associations generally increased as the time window for average PAH exposure increased from 24 hr to 1 year, suggesting more of a chronic response. Significant associations with chronic PAH exposure and immune outcomes were also observed in subjects with allergic rhinitis.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Collectively, these results demonstrate that increased ambient PAH exposure is associated with impaired systemic immunity and epigenetic modifications in a key locus involved in atopy: FOXP3, with a higher impact on atopic children. The results suggest that increased atopic clinical symptoms in children could be linked to increased PAH exposure in air pollution.
Carrier screening of RTEL1 mutations in the Ashkenazi Jewish population
Authors: Fedick A.M. , Shi L. , Jalas C. , Treff N.R. , Ekstein J. , Kornreich R. , Edelmann L. , Mehta L. , Savage S.A.
Published: July 2014

Hoyeraal–Hreidarsson syndrome (HH) is a clinically severe variant of dyskeratosis congenita (DC), characterized by cerebellar hypoplasia, microcephaly, intrauterine growth retardation, and severe immunodeficiency in addition to features of DC. Germline mutations in the RTEL1 gene have recently been identified as causative of HH. In this study, the carrier frequency for five RTEL1 mutations that occurred in individuals of Ashkenazi Jewish descent was investigated in order to advise on including them in existing clinical mutation panels for this population. Our screening showed that the carrier frequency for c.3791G>A (p.R1264H) was higher than expected, 1% in the Ashkenazi Orthodox and 0.45% in the general Ashkenazi Jewish population. Haplotype analyses suggested the presence of a common founder. We recommend that the c.3791G>A RTEL1 mutation be considered for inclusion in carrier screening panels in the Ashkenazi population.
Predictors of quality of life in patients evaluated for liver transplantation
Authors: Jara Maximilian , Bednarsch Jan , Malinowski Maciej , Lüttgert Katja , Orr James , Puhl Gero , Seehofer Daniel , Neuhaus Peter , Stockmann Martin
Published: July 2014

Introduction

Health‐related quality of life (HRQOL) is severely impaired in advanced liver disease. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of actual liver function and disease‐specific factors on HRQOL of patients evaluated for liver transplantation.

Patients and Methods

Disease‐specific QOL was analyzed in 142 patients evaluated for liver transplantation using the German version of the Chronic Liver Disease Questionnaire (CLDQ‐D). We performed quantitative liver function tests and collected clinical and demographical data of patients after their referral to our transplant department. Values were correlated with CLDQ‐D scores.

Results

Neither model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) nor dynamic liver function test results were related to quality of life. Serum albumin concentration was a strong but not independent factor correlated with global CLDQ‐D (r = 0.269, p < 0.001). Independent predictors of global CLDQ‐D were ascites and butyrylcholinesterase serum concentration (B = −0.486, p < 0.001 and B = 0.196, p = 0.002, respectively).

Conclusion

Actual liver function is not related to decreased quality of life, whereas ascites and hypoproteinemia represent the major factors influencing physical and social aspects of daily life in potential liver transplant candidates.
Evaluation of the Effect of Cardiac Rehabilitation on Left Atrial and Left Ventricular Function and Its Relationship with Changes in Arterial Stiffness in Patients with Acute Myocardial Infarction
Authors: Acar Rezzan Deniz , Bulut Mustafa , Ergün Sunay , Yesin Mahmut , Akçakoyun Mustafa
Published: July 2014

Background

The main aim of this study was to detect the possible early effect of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on left atrium (LA) and left ventricle (LV) function and relation to aortic stiffness in patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI).

Methods

Fifty‐four patients with AMI were enrolled in this study. Left atrial strain analysis was performed by two‐dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography. The deceleration time (DT) was measured by pulsed‐wave Doppler. The ratio of E/e' to LA peak strain was used to estimate the LA stiffness (Stiffnessstrain) Aortic elasticity parameters were calculated using the formulas including aortic systolic and diastolic diameter with M‐Mode echocardiography and blood pressure. Anterior wall aortic expansion velocity was measured by tissue Doppler imaging.

Results

Left ventricle ejection fraction (EF) and LA functional parameters were significantly better in trained subjects. Also in training group, the LV diastolic functional parameters were better in CR group than the control group. Aortic elasticity parameters were better with CR.

Conclusions

In patients with CR, an increase in LA strain was correlated with increase in aortic strain and improved aortic distensibility, likely indicating favorable LA and aortic interactions with exercise training.
Impact of Energy Loss Index and Valvuloarterial Impedance in Patients with Aortic Stenosis Using Three‐Dimensional Echocardiography
Authors: Saitoh Takeji , Tanaka Jun , Furugen Azusa , Harada Kenji , Izumo Masaki , Fukuoka Yoko , Shiota Takahiro
Published: July 2014

Background

Energy loss index (ELI) and valvuloarterial impedance (Zva) have been evaluated with a lack of three‐dimensional (3D) information regarding the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) and sino‐tubular junction (STJ). Our aim of this study is to compare the difference of ELI and Zva between two‐dimensional (2D) and 3D echocardiography.

Methods

In 74 patients with moderate‐to‐severe aortic stenosis, the effective orifice area index (EOAI: EOA/body surface area) was calculated by continuity equation based on both 2D transthoracic echocardiography (2DTTE) and 3D transesophageal echocardiography (3DTEE). The areas of the LVOT and the STJ were calculated with the assumption of π × (dimension/2)2 by 2DTTE and were measured directly by 3DTEE. Severe AS was defined as EOAI or ELI <0.6 cm2/m2 or Zva ≥ 4.5 mmHg/mL per m2.

Results

Both the LVOT and STJ were elliptical, and LVOT was more elliptical than STJ. The ELI by 3DTEE (0.58 cm2/m2 [median]) was larger than the other 3 values: EOAI on 2DTTE = 0.41, P < 0.01; EOAI on 3DTEE = 0.49, P < 0.01; and ELI on 2DTTE = 0.49, P < 0.01. Furthermore, Zva by 2DTTE, 4.7 mmHg/mL per m2, was larger than that by 3DTEE (3.8, P < 0.01).

Conclusions

2DTTE underestimated EOAI and ELI relative to 3DTEE and overestimated Zva relative to 3DTEE.
Increased numbers of bone marrow‐derived cells in parathyroid adenoma
Authors: Grabmaier Ulrich , Brandl Lydia , Kreiner Julia , Negele Thomas , Huber Bruno C. , Rimmbach Christian , David Robert , Brunner Stefan
Published: July 2014

Background

In primary hyperparathyroidism (PHPT), the increased levels of parathyroid hormone (PTH) result in mobilisation of bone‐marrow‐derived cells (BMCs) into peripheral blood. However, the fate of these cells is still unknown.

Materials and methods

In this study, we sought to investigate cells with typical surface markers of BMCs within parathyroid adenomas (PA) of patients with primary hyperparathyroidism. We therefore investigated PA and normal parathyroid glands (NPG) of 15 patients with PHPT by immunohistochemistry and PCR.

Results

mRNA levels for CD31, CD34 and CD45 were significantly increased in PA compared to NPG. Immunohistochemical staining for CD31 and CD34 revealed a significantly higher vessel density in PA. Furthermore, scattered single cells expressing CD31, CD34 or CD45 were significantly augmented compared to normal parathyroid glands and directly correlated with vessel density. mRNA levels of SDF‐1 was increased whereas its major inhibitor dipeptidylpeptidase IV (DPP IV) is decreased in PA, suggesting that the SDF‐1 axis plays a role in the migration of BMCs into PA.

Conclusion

These data indicate a possible role of BMCs in the pathophysiology of PA of patients with PHPT.
Population structure of Spodoptera frugiperda maize and rice host forms in South America: are they host strains?
Authors: Juárez M.L. , Schöfl G. , Vera M.T. , Vilardi J.C. , Murúa M.G. , Willink E. , Hänniger S. , Heckel D.G. , Groot A.T.
Published: July 2014

Determining which factors contribute to the formation and maintenance of genetic divergence to evaluate their relative importance as a cause of biological differentiation is among the major challenges in evolutionary biology. In Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) two host strains have been recognized in the 1980s: the corn‐strain prefers maize, sorghum, and cotton, whereas the rice‐strain prefers rice and wild grasses. However, it is not clear to what extent these so‐called ‘strains’, which have also been called ‘host races’ or even ‘sibling species’, are really associated with host plants. Due to the indeterminate evolutionary status, we will use the term ‘host forms’ (sensu Funk). Here, we characterized populations collected from maize, rice, and wild grasses from three countries in South America. Using two mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase I (mtCOI) markers and 10 polymorphisms in the triose phosphate isomerase (Tpi) gene, we found various patterns of host association. Two hundred twenty‐seven nuclear amplified fragment length polymorphisms (AFLPs) markers revealed significant genetic differentiation among populations, which was generally correlated to the host from which the larvae were collected. Using a multivariate discriminant analysis and a Bayesian clustering approach, we found that individuals could be grouped into 2–5 genetically distinct clusters, depending on the method. Together, our results indicate that although host‐associated differentiation is present in this species, it does not account for all observable genetic variation and other factors must be maintaining genetic differentiation between these forms. Therefore, the term ‘host strains’ should be abandoned and ‘host forms’ should be used instead for S. frugiperda.
Mutualist‐mediated effects on species' range limits across large geographic scales
Authors: Afkhami Michelle E. , McIntyre Patrick J. , Strauss Sharon Y.
Published: July 2014

Understanding the processes determining species range limits is central to predicting species distributions under climate change. Projected future ranges are extrapolated from distribution models based on climate layers, and few models incorporate the effects of biotic interactions on species' distributions. Here, we show that a positive species interaction ameliorates abiotic stress, and has a profound effect on a species' range limits. Combining field surveys of 92 populations, 10 common garden experiments throughout the range, species distribution models and greenhouse experiments, we show that mutualistic fungal endophytes ameliorate drought stress and broaden the geographic range of their native grass host Bromus laevipes by thousands of square kilometres (~ 20% larger) into drier habitats. Range differentiation between fungal‐associated and fungal‐free grasses was comparable to species‐level range divergence of congeners, indicating large impacts on range limits. Positive biotic interactions may be underappreciated in determining species' ranges and species' responses to future climates across large geographic scales.
Autotomy and its Effects on Wolf Spider Foraging Success
Authors: Steffenson Matthew M. , Formanowicz Daniel R. , Brown Christopher A.
Published: July 2014

Few studies have attempted to determine how physical injury affects predators. One of the ways that physical injury can be expressed is by autotomy or the voluntary loss of a body part. Here, we examined whether the loss of specific legs affects the foraging success of the wolf spider Rabidosa santrita (predator) on another species, Pardosa valens (prey). We also wanted to identify whether the loss of legs in both the predator and prey would impact the outcome of a predation event. Both predator and prey were collected from a creek bed at Portal, AZ, in 2012. Predators were randomly assigned groups where all prey items were intact or all prey had one randomly chosen leg IV removed. Within these groups, predators were organized into a control, leg I autotomy, or leg IV autotomy treatment. All predators had their pre‐ and post‐foraging running speed determined. Predators were introduced into chambers with five prey items and allowed to forage for 1 h. The leg position autotomized or the comparison of pre‐ and post‐foraging trials had no effect on predator running speed. Additionally, there was no significant effect of either predator or prey leg treatment on the total proportion of prey items captured by the end of the foraging trials. Survival analyses indicated that intact prey items tended to have a higher survival rate when predators were missing a leg IV than when predators were intact. When both the predator and prey were missing legs, no significant difference in prey survival rates was detected. We suggest that for predators that inhabit complex, heterogeneous habitats and are classified as ambush predators, the loss of a limb may affect prey capture success, especially when the prey is intact, but that increased sample size is necessary to determine whether this trend is significant.
Mitochondrial dynamics and the innate antiviral immune response
Authors: Pourcelot Marie , Arnoult Damien
Published: July 2014

The innate immune system has a key role in the mammalian immune response. In the cytosol, RNA viruses are sensed by the retinoic acid‐inducible gene‐I‐like receptors, which trigger a complex signaling cascade in which mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein plays a central role in mediating the innate host response through the induction of antiviral and inflammatory responses. Hence, the mitochondrion is now emerging as a fundamental hub for innate antiviral immunity beyond its known roles in metabolic processes and the control of programmed cell death. This review summarizes the findings related to mitochondrial antiviral signaling protein, and mitochondria and their dynamics, in the innate immune response to RNA viruses.
Current status of robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy
Authors: Komninos Christos , Tuliao Patrick , Rha Koon Ho
Published: July 2014

Robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy is increasingly carried out in an attempt to improve the cosmetic outcome of minimally‐invasive procedures. However, the actual role of this novel technique remains to be determined. The present article reviews evidence and examines updates of robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy outcomes reported in more contemporary studies. A comprehensive online systematic search of PubMed, Scopus and Web of Science databases according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐analyses criteria recommendations was carried out in January 2014, identifying data from 2008 to 2014 regarding robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy. The majority of medical evidence to date is based on case reports or retrospective studies. Current studies show that robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy is a feasible procedure carried out in an acceptable length of operative time, and resulting in a desirable cosmetic outcome and less postoperative pain. However, comparable studies show that robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy is inferior to the conventional approach, especially with regard to warm ischemia time. Furthermore, the numerous limitations that exist with the utilization of the current commercial single‐site devices make robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site PN more challenging and more complicated for surgeons compared with conventional procedures. Further significant improvements, along with more studies, are required in order to develop the ideal robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site robotic platform and overcome the current limitations. For the time being, robotic laparoendoscopic single‐site partial nephrectomy procedures could be applicable in patients with low tumor size and complexity, and should not be routinely applied in all cases.
Clinicohistopathologic Comparison of Adult Type and Juvenile Type Xanthogranulomas in Korea
Authors: Chang Sung‐Eun , Cho Soyun , Choi Jung‐Chul , Choi Jee‐Ho , Sung Kyung‐Jeh , Moon Kee‐Chan , Koh Jai‐Kyoung
Published: July 2014

Xanthogranuloma (XG) is an uncommon benign disorder characterized by solitary or multiple yellow‐red papulonodules on the skin, and occasionally, in other organs. It is predominantly a disease of infancy or early childhood, although adults may rarely be affected. To compare the clinicohistopathological featues of juvenile‐type xanthogranulomas (JXGs) and adult‐type xanthogranulomas (AXGs) (>14 years) in Korea, 30 cases of JXGs and 15 cases of AXGs were compared clinically and histopathologically. Except for the fact AXGs were more often solitary and larger and showed neither other associated systemic diseases nor spontaneous regression, the clinical features such as color, mean number, or site of the lesions in AXGs were not statistically different from JXGs. Histologically, AXCs were not significantly different in amounts of foamy cells, giant cells including Touton cells, and inflammatory cells, although subcutaneous involvement was seen only in the two infant cases. In conclusion, in contrast to AXGs, JXGs need special attention to accompanying systemic diseases and do not need excisional procedures, considering their frequent spontaneous regression.
Psychiatric Morbidity in Vitiligo and Psoriasis: A Comparative Study from India
Authors: Mattoo Surendra K. , Handa Sanjeev , Kaur Inderjeet , Gupta Nitin , Malhotra Rama
Published: July 2014

In a tertiary‐care teaching hospital in India, dermatology outpatients with vitiligo (N=113) and psoriasis (N=103) were studied for psychiatric morbidity. The two groups were similar with regard to education, locality, religion, and attitude to appearance (ATT). Psoriasis cases were older, more often male, and more often married. The General Health Questionnaire (GHQ) assessed psychiatric morbidity rates at 33.63% and 24.7% for vitiligo and psoriasis, respectively. The ICD‐10 psychiatric diagnoses in GHQ positive cases were: adjustment disorder (56% vs 62%), depressive episode (22% vs 29%) and dysthymia (9% vs 4%) in vitiligo and psoriasis, respectively. The Comprehensive Psychopathological Rating Scale (CPRS) assessed that depression, anxiety, and total psychopathology levels were similar in the two GHQ positive subgroups. Significant correlations were noted between psychopathology (GHQ, CRPS), dysfunction as per Dysfunction Analysis Questionnaire (DAQ), and behavior change as per Impact of Skin Disease Scale (IMPACT), and all were more prominent in vitiligo.
Surfactant Protein D (SP‐D) and Systemic Scleroderma (SSc)
Authors: Maeda Manabu , Ichiki Yoshiro , Aoyama Yumi , Kitajima Yasuo
Published: July 2014

We measured serum levels of SP‐D in collagen diseases (110 cases) such as systemic scleroderma (SSc), scleroderma spectrum disorders (SSD), systemic lupus erythematodes (SLE), Sjögren syndrome (Sjs), dermatomyositis (DM), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and dermatitis (DE) (109 cases) as a control. Additionally, we performad a correlation analysis to determine how these levels were related to pulmonary fibrosis and function test (vital capacity, %DLco). The serum levels of SP‐D increased in SSc patients with Barnett type III more than in SSc patients with Barnett type I or II, while they increased slightly in SSD (incomplete type of SSc) patients. The differences in these figures were statistically significant between the SSc (SSc & SSD) and non‐SSc (SLE, DM, Sjs & RA) groups (p<0.005). The serum levels of SP‐D in SSc patients with anti‐topoisomerase I antibodies were statistically higher than those in SSc patients with other types of anti‐nuclear antibodies. There was a statistically significant correlation between the severity of pulmonary fibrosis and the serum levels of SP‐D, and a statistically negative correlation between SP‐D levels and vital capacity or %DLco, but there was no proportional correlation with the forced expiatory volume (FEV1.0%). There was no statistical relationship between pre‐ and post‐therapy with photopheresis; however, there was a statistical correlation between the serum levels of SP‐D and KL‐6. In the group of collagen diseases, plasma levels of SP‐D were higher than serum levels of SP‐D. Patients with SSc possess higher levels of SP‐D than do those with other collagen diseases and dermatitis, which may correspond to the severity of pulmonary fibrosis.
Two Cases of Unilateral Pigmented Purpuric Dermatosis
Authors: Takeuchi Yoshio , Chinen Taeko , Ichikawa Yoshiyuki , Ito Masatoshi
Published: July 2014

Two cases of pigmented purpuric dermatosis showing unusual distribution are reported. Case 1: 35‐year‐old female. A group of three asymptomatic purpuric macules developed on the ulnar side of the elbow flexure of the left forearm 3–6 months before presentation. Histopathological analysis revealed a band‐like inflammatory infiltrate in the uppermost dermis and extravasation of red blood cells just beneath the epidermis, but there was no evidence of lichefaction degeneration in the basal layer of the epidermis. Case 2: 26‐year‐old female. Asymptomatic purpuric pigmentations developed on the flexure side of the right lower extremity in a linear arrangement 2–3 months before presentation. Histopathological analysis revealed focally perivascular inflammatory infiltrates consisting mainly of lymphocytes and conspicuous extravasation of red blood cells into the papillary dermis. There was no histological evidence of vasculitis in either case. Hemosiderin deposits were more limited than expected in both patients. Both cases are compatible with diagnoses of pigmented purpuric dermatosis. Case 1 on the left arm was compatible with lichen purpuricus. Case 2 occurred in a linear arrangement on the right leg and had a history of aspirin use for chronic headache. We therefore suspected that medication had been an etiological or contributing factor.
Sneddon Syndrome with Multiple Cerebral Infarctions 12 years after the Onset of Livedo Vasculitis: A Possible Involvement of Platelet Activation
Authors: Matsumura Yumi , Tomimoto Hidekazu , Yamamoto Masamitsu , Imamura Sadao , Miyachi Yoshiki
Published: July 2014

Sneddon syndrome is characterized by livedo reticularis and multiple cerebral infarctions. Skin and central nervous system symptoms usually have a synchronous onset and at times initial symptoms affect one of them, the other lagging several years behind. We here report a patient with Sneddon syndrome who developed multiple cerebral infarctions more than 10 years after the onset of livedo reticularis. While the neurological symptoms were apparent, the patient did not display active skin manifestations. Laboratory findings excluded collagen diseases, antiphospholipid antibody syndrome, and inherited quantitative deficiency of protein C, protein S and antithrombin III. Abnormal findings included extremely elevated levels of β‐thromboglobulin and platelet factor‐4 in the blood, although these acute phase markers of thrombosis were examined several years after the onset of cerebral infarctions. Platelet activation may have caused Sneddon syndrome in the present case.
Staphylococcal Scalded Skin Syndrome Developing during Burn Treatment
Authors: Oyake Shinichi , Oh‐i Tsunao , Koga Michiyuki
Published: July 2014

We report a case of staphylococcal scalded skin syndrome (SSSS) in a 5‐year‐old girl who had been hospitalized for burn treatment. When she developed an upper respiratory tract infection, she manifested extensive erythema and exfoliation. There was a purulent discharge from the ulcer caused by the burn, and exfoliation was observed in the surrounding area. Based on clinical symptoms and laboratory data, SSSS was diagnosed and treated with antibiotics, resulting in subsidence. Staphylococcus aureus was isolated from the posterior nasopharynx and the skin erosion and was proved to produce exfoliative toxin A (ETA). Infection from an asymptomatic carrier of an ET‐producing strain was suspected, but we failed to identify the origin, in spite of a thorough inspection of the mother, nurses, and physician. SSSS is occasionally reported as a hospital‐acquired infection. We should study the frequency of asymptomatic carriers of ET‐producing strains so that we can formulate strategies to prevent such infections.
Epidermolysis Bullosa: Scientific Advances and Therapeutic Challenges
Authors: Eady Robin A.J.
Published: July 2014

Epidermolysis bullosa (EB) is a heterogeneous group of inherited skin fragility and blistering disorders. Over the last 25 years research in EB has progressed from descriptive morphological studies through quantitative ultrastructural and biochemical analysis to molecular genetic approaches, including linkage analysis, gene cloning and sequencing, and mutation screening. Currently, 10 distinct causative genes are known to underlie different forms of EB, and this knowledge has been translated to improving the clinical management of patients with these disorders. For example, first trimester DNA‐based prenatal diagnosis is now available in a number of centres in different countries, including Japan, the USA and the UK, and preimplantation genetic diagnosis is also possible. The development of novel forms of treatment for enhancing wound healing and reducing blistering are the subject of an international research effort. Programmes aimed at developing gene therapy for the major forms of EB have already reached the preclinical testing stages. Despite these impressive scientific advances, EB continues to be a devastating disease, in which the high incidence of aggressive squamous cell carcinoma has a major influence on both morbidity and life expectancy, especially in patients with the severe mutilating form of dystrophic EB.
Frictional Dermal Melanosis (Lifa Disease) over Bony Prominences
Authors: Sharquie Khalifa E. , Al‐Dorky Muthanna K.
Published: July 2014

Seventy‐one patients (70 females and one male) were studied. Their ages at presentation ranged from 16‐43 years with a mean of 24.4 years. The duration of disease varied from three months to ten years with a median of 2.7 years. All patients were slim and had recorded using a washing agent (Lifa) during bathing with vigorous friction. Family history of the same disease was present in 11 (15.5%) patients. The pigmentation was brown‐black with a rippled pattern and showed no contrast under Wood's light. The areas commonly affected were clavicles (71.8%), shins (36.6%), upper back (32.4%), Adam's apple (31%), lateral aspects of the arms (31%) and other areas. The histopathology of biopsies from 24 patients showed marked dermal melanosis. Amyloid deposits in the papillary dermis were present in one patient. This clinical and histopathological picture suggests that this common condition is related to frictional melanosis.
Erythematous Swelling of the Lip Associated with Sjögren's Syndrome and Mimicking Cheilitis Granulomatosa
Authors: Fujimura Taku , Aiba Setsuya , Suetake Takaki , Tagami Hachiro
Published: July 2014

A 64‐year‐old Japanese woman developed therapy‐resistant erythematous swelling of her upper lip. Our tentative clinical diagnosis of cheilitis granulomatosa was ruled out later by the laboratory findings including increased levels of anti‐nuclear‐antibody (ANA), anti‐SS‐A/Ro antibody, and positive Schirmer test as well as by a histopathological picture showing a dense perivascular infiltration of plasma cells and mononuclear cells in the dermis instead of granulomatous changes. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first patient in whom annular erythema associated with Sjögren's syndrome involved only the upper lip and produced clinical features simulating cheilitis granulomatosa.