bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Progesterone Induced Blocking Factor Isoforms in Normal and Failed Murine Pregnancies
Authors: Bogdan Agnes , Polgar Beata , Szekeres‐Bartho Julia
Published: December 2013

Problem

Progesterone induced blocking factor (PIBF) is required for successful pregnancy. Alternative splicing produces PIBF isoforms with different functions. The full‐length (90 kDa) PIBF is involved in cell cycle regulation, whereas smaller secreted forms act as cytokines. We aim to examine the PIBF exon pattern and protein isoform profile in normal and failed murine pregnancies.

Method of study

Pregnant Balb/c mice were killed on gestation days 12–14 or 17–19. Normal and resorbed fetuses, placentae, and uterine tissue were used for RNA and protein analysis with RT‐PCR and Western blot, respectively.

Results

Late pregnancy and resorption were associated with lower expression of the N‐terminal exons, together with significantly reduced production of the full‐length protein.

Conclusion

Reduced production of the full‐length PIBF protein might result in disturbed cell cycle regulation and dysregulated trophoblast invasion, while the absence of PIBF isoforms containing exon 2–4 coded sequences might lead to the loss of local immunosuppression.
Effect of Hydroxychloroquine on Antiphospholipid Antibody‐Induced Changes in First Trimester Trophoblast Function
Authors: Albert Caroline R. , Schlesinger William J. , Viall Chez A. , Mulla Melissa J. , Brosens Jan J. , Chamley Lawrence W. , Abrahams Vikki M.
Published: December 2013

Problem

Women with antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) are at risk for pregnancy complications. Antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) alter trophoblast function by triggering an inflammatory cytokine response; modulating angiogenic factor secretion; and inhibiting migration. While patients with APS are often treated with hydroxychloroquine (HCQ), its effect on trophoblast function is poorly understood.

Method of study

A human first trimester trophoblast cell line was treated with or without antihuman β2GPI mAbs in the presence or absence of HCQ. Supernatants were analyzed by ELISA. Cell migration was measured using a colormetric assay.

Results

Antiphospholipid antibodies‐induced trophoblast IL‐8, IL‐1 β, PlGF, and sEndoglin secretion were not altered by HCQ. aPL‐induced inhibition of trophoblast migration was partially reversed by HCQ, even though HCQ significantly increased secretion of pro‐migratory IL‐6 to greater than baseline. aPL‐induced upregulation of TIMP2 appears to inhibit trophoblast migration; the inability of HCQ to prevent aPL‐induced TIMP2 may explain why migration was only partially restored.

Conclusion

Hydroxychloroquine reversed the aPL‐inhibition of trophoblast IL‐6 secretion and partially limited aPL‐inhibition of cell migration. Thus, some form of combination therapy that includes HCQ may be beneficial to pregnant APS patients.
Clinical trials in children
Authors: Joseph Pathma D. , Craig Jonathan C. , Caldwell Patrina H.Y.
Published: December 2013

Safety and efficacy data on many medicines used in children are surprisingly scarce. As a result children are sometimes given ineffective medicines or medicines with unknown harmful side effects. Better and more relevant clinical trials in children are needed to increase our knowledge of the effects of medicines and to prevent the delayed or non‐use of beneficial therapies. Clinical trials provide reliable evidence of treatment effects by rigorous controlled testing of interventions on human subjects. Paediatric trials are more challenging to conduct than trials in adults because of the paucity of funding, uniqueness of children and particular ethical concerns. Although current regulations and initiatives are improving the scope, quantity and quality of trials in children, there are still deficiencies that need to be addressed to accelerate radically equitable access to evidence‐based therapies in children.
Low gut microbiota diversity in early infancy precedes asthma at school age
Authors: Abrahamsson T. R. , Jakobsson H. E. , Andersson A. F. , Björkstén B. , Engstrand L. , Jenmalm M. C.
Published: December 2013

Background

Low total diversity of the gut microbiota during the first year of life is associated with allergic diseases in infancy, but little is known how early microbial diversity is related to allergic disease later in school age.

Objective

To assess microbial diversity and characterize the dominant bacteria in stool during the first year of life in relation to the prevalence of different allergic diseases in school age, such as asthma, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (ARC) and eczema.

Methods

The microbial diversity and composition was analysed with barcoded 16S rDNA 454 pyrosequencing in stool samples at 1 week, 1 month and 12 months of age in 47 infants which were subsequently assessed for allergic disease and skin prick test reactivity at 7 years of age (ClinicalTrials.gov ID NCT01285830).

Results

Children developing asthma (n = 8) had a lower diversity of the total microbiota than non‐asthmatic children at 1 week (P = 0.04) and 1 month (P = 0.003) of age, whereas allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (n = 13), eczema (n = 12) and positive skin prick reactivity (n = 14) at 7 years of age did not associate with the gut microbiota diversity. Neither was asthma associated with the microbiota composition later in infancy (at 12 months). Children having IgE‐associated eczema in infancy and subsequently developing asthma had lower microbial diversity than those that did not. There were no significant differences, however, in relative abundance of bacterial phyla and genera between children with or without allergic disease.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

Low total diversity of the gut microbiota during the first month of life was associated with asthma but not ARC in children at 7 years of age. Measures affecting microbial colonization of the infant during the first month of life may impact asthma development in childhood.
High-titre circulating tissue transglutaminase-2 antibodies predict small bowel villous atrophy, but decision cut-off limits must be locally validated
Authors: Beltran L , Koenig M , Egner W , Howard M , Butt A , Austin M R , Patel D , Sanderson R R , Goubet S , Saleh F , Lavender J , Stainer E , Tarzi M D
Published: December 2013

Numerous studies suggest that high levels of circulating immunoglobulin (Ig)A tissue transglutaminase (TTG2) antibodies predict coeliac disease with high specificity. Accordingly, it has been suggested that duodenal biopsy may not be required routinely for diagnostic confirmation where quantitative serology identifies the presence of high antibody titres. However, defining a cut-off TTG2 threshold is problematic, as the multiple available assay methods are not harmonized and most studies have been focused on the paediatric population. Recent paediatric guidelines proposed a TTG2 antibody diagnostic cut-off at 10 × the upper limit of normal (ULN) for the method; however, concerns remain about errors of generalization, between both methods and laboratories. In this study, we used retrospective laboratory data to investigate the relationship between TTG2 antibody levels and Marsh 3 histology in the seropositive population of adults and children at a single centre. Among 202 seropositive patients with corresponding biopsies, it was possible to define a TTG2 antibody cut-off with 100% specificity for Marsh 3 histology, at just over 10 × ULN for the method. However, UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme returns during the study period showed a wide dispersion of results and poor consensus, both between methods and between laboratories using the same method. Our results support the view that high-titre TTG2 antibody levels have strong predictive value for villous atrophy in adults and children, but suggest that decision cut-offs to guide biopsy requirement will require local validation. TTG2 antibody assay harmonization is a priority, in order to meet the evolving requirements of laboratory users in this field.
Different levels of thyroid hormones between impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance: free T3 affects the prevalence of impaired fasting glucose and impaired glucose tolerance in opposite ways
Authors: Jing Su , Xiaoying Ding , Ying Xu , Rui Liu , Mingyu Gu , Yuting Chen , Yanhua Yin , Yufan Wang , Haiyan Sun , Yongde Peng
Published: December 2013

Context

There is an association between thyroid disorders and diabetes mellitus.

Objective

To investigate thyroid hormone levels in different glucose metabolic statuses, analyse relationships between thyroid hormone levels and different categories of prediabetes and metabolic parameters within a large euthyroid nondiabetic population.

Methods

A total of 3328 subjects without diabetes or thyroid dysfunction were included in this cross‐sectional study. Subjects were divided in to four groups [normal glucose tolerance (NGR), impaired fasting glucose (IFG), impaired glucose tolerance (IGT) and combined glucose intolerance (CGI)] according to the results of oral glucose tolerance test. Participants were then divided into four groups according to the quartile of free T3 (FT3) in their blood.

Results

Subjects with IFG had higher levels of FT3 and ratio of FT3 to FT4 (FT3/FT4), but lower level of free T4 (FT4) than subjects with IGT. FT3/FT4 was negatively associated with postprandial plasma glucose (PPG) [standardized β (β) = −0·087; P < 0·001]. The prevalence of IFG and CGI was increased with the level of FT3, while the prevalence of IGT was decreased with the level of FT3 (P for trend: <0·001, 0·003 and <0·001, respectively). FT3 was negatively associated with the risk of IGT (OR = 0·409, 95% CI 0·179–0·935), whereas FT4 was positively associated with the risk of IGT (OR = 1·296, 95% CI 1·004–1·673).

Conclusions

Free thyroid hormone levels were different between subjects with IFG and IGT. FT3 affects the prevalence of IFG and IGT in opposite ways. The difference in thyroid hormone levels may play an important role in the different pathological mechanisms of IFG and IGT.
Bone quality evaluation at dental implant site using multislice CT, micro‐CT, and cone beam CT
Authors: Parsa Azin , Ibrahim Norliza , Hassan Bassam , van der Stelt Paul , Wismeijer Daniel
Published: December 2013

Objectives

The first purpose of this study was to analyze the correlation between bone volume fraction (BV/TV) and calibrated radiographic bone density Hounsfield units (HU) in human jaws, derived from micro‐CT and multislice computed tomography (MSCT), respectively. The second aim was to assess the accuracy of cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) in evaluating trabecular bone density and microstructure using MSCT and micro‐CT, respectively, as reference gold standards.

Material and methods

Twenty partially edentulous human mandibular cadavers were scanned by three types of CT modalities: MSCT (Philips, Best, the Netherlands), CBCT (3D Accuitomo 170, J Morita, Kyoto, Japan), and micro‐CT (SkyScan 1173, Kontich, Belgium). Image analysis was performed using Amira (v4.1, Visage Imaging Inc., Carlsbad, CA, USA), 3Diagnosis (v5.3.1, 3diemme, Cantu, Italy), Geomagic (studio® 2012, Morrisville, NC, USA), and CTAn (v1.11, SkyScan). MSCT, CBCT, and micro‐CT scans of each mandible were matched to select the exact region of interest (ROI). MSCT HU, micro‐CT BV/TV, and CBCT gray value and bone volume fraction of each ROI were derived. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the correlations between corresponding measurement parameters.

Results

Strong correlations were observed between CBCT and MSCT density (r = 0.89) and between CBCT and micro‐CT BV/TV measurements (r = 0.82). Excellent correlation was observed between MSCT HU and micro‐CT BV/TV (r = 0.91). However, significant differences were found between all comparisons pairs (P < 0.001) except for mean measurement between CBCT BV/TV and micro‐CT BV/TV (P = 0.147).

Conclusions

An excellent correlation exists between bone volume fraction and bone density as assessed on micro‐CT and MSCT, respectively. This suggests that bone density measurements could be used to estimate bone microstructural parameters. A strong correlation also was found between CBCT gray values and BV/TV and their gold standards, suggesting the potential of this modality in bone quality assessment at implant site.
Fragrance allergy and quality of life – development and validation of a disease‐specific quality of life instrument
Authors: Heisterberg Maria V. , Menné Torkil , Johansen Jeanne D.
Published: December 2013

Background

Fragrance allergy is a lifelong condition that may give rise to permanent or recurrent contact dermatitis and may affect quality of life (QoL). The effect on QoL has not yet been investigated, and no disease‐specific QoL instrument for fragrance allergy exists.

Objective

To develop and validate a disease‐specific instrument to investigate QoL among fragrance‐allergic subjects.

Method

A fragrance QoL instrument (FQL index) was developed on the basis of narratives from 68 fragrance‐allergic subjects, and consisted of 13 items. It was tested in a postal survey among 1650 participants patch tested at Gentofte University Hospital (2000–2010). The survey included other QoL instruments [Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI) and Short Form 36 (SF36) version 2] and questions on eczema severity (response rate of 66%). A retest was conducted after 3–6 months (response rate of 72.5%).

Results

The FQL index showed a significant and strong correlation with the DLQI (rS = 0.70), and disease severity, but a weak correlation with SF36 [mental component summary score, rS = − 0.22; physical component summary score, rS = − 0.31]. Good reliability and responsiveness to changes in disease severity were seen.

Conclusion

The FQL index is a good instrument with which to investigate QoL in subjects with fragrance allergy. Good correlations with the DLQI and self‐estimated disease severity were seen, and it showed good reliability, reproducibility and ability to distinguish changes in disease severity.
Antithrombotic drug does not affect the positive predictive value of an immunochemical fecal occult blood test
Authors: Tsuji Yosuke , Gunji Toshiaki , Sato Hajime , Ono Akiko , Ito Takafumi , Ohata Ken , Yamamichi Nobutake , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Matsuhashi Nobuyuki , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: December 2013

Background and Aim

Antithrombotic drugs may affect the diagnostic performance of immunochemical fecal occult blood test (iFOBT) for colorectal cancer (CRC) screening. The aim of the present study was to assess the effect of antithrombotic drugs on the diagnostic performance of iFOBT.

Methods

We analyzed 1016 patients who underwent colonoscopy for positive iFOBT. Patients were classified as follows: patients who had advanced neoplasms detected and those who did not; patients who had cancers detected and those who did not; patients who had any neoplasms detected and those who did not. We compared the following factors between two paired groups: sex, age, endoscopists' experience, and antithrombotic drug usage.

Results

A total of 139 patients were taking antithrombotic drugs (13.7%). Advanced neoplasms, cancers, and any neoplasms were detected in 196 (19.3%), 59 (5.8%), and 490 (48.2%)patients, respectively. There were no higher detection rates in the antithrombotic drug (–) group than in the (+) group (advanced neoplasms: 19.3% vs 19.4%, P = 1.000; cancers: 5.8% vs 5.8%, P = 1.000; any neoplasms: 48.4% vs 47.5%, P = 0.856). Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that none of aspirin, warfarin, or other antithrombotic drugs was a significant factor for advanced neoplasms (95% CI 0.350–1.216, P = 0.179; 95% CI 0.421–1.899, P = 0.772; 95% CI 0.323–1.810, P = 0.764, respectively). As to cancers and any neoplasms, no antithrombotic drug also proved to be a significant factor.

Conclusion

The present study demonstrated that the positive predictive value of iFOBT was not affected by ongoing antithrombotic therapy.
Advanced Producer Service Firms as Strategic Networks, Global Cities as Strategic Places
Authors: Taylor Peter J. , Derudder Ben , Faulconbridge James , Hoyler Michael , Ni Pengfei
Published: December 2013

Sassen's identification of global cities as “strategic places” is explored through world city network analysis. This involves searching out advanced producer service (APS) firms that constitute “strategic networks,” from whose activities strategic places can be defined. Twenty‐five out of 175 APS firms are found to be strategic, and from their office networks, 45 cities out of 526 are designated as strategic places. A measure of “strategicness” of cities is devised, and individual findings from this are discussed by drawing on existing literature about how APS firms use specific cities. A key finding shows that New York and London have different levels of strategicness, and this is related to the former's innovation prowess and the latter's role in global consumption of services. Other cases of strategicness discussed in terms of the balance between production and consumption of APSs are Beijing, Hong Kong, and Shanghai; Palo Alto; Mexico City; Johannesburg; and Dubai and Frankfurt.
Effects of chronic cochlear electrical stimulation after an extended period of profound deafness on primary auditory cortex organization in cats
Authors: Fallon James B. , Shepherd Robert K. , Irvine Dexter R. F.
Published: December 2013

Extended periods of deafness have profound effects on central auditory system function and organization. Neonatal deafening results in loss of the normal cochleotopic organization of the primary auditory cortex (AI), but environmentally‐derived intracochlear electrical stimulation, via a cochlear implant, initiated shortly after deafening, can prevent this loss. We investigated whether such stimulation initiated after an extended period of deafness can restore cochleotopy. In two groups of neonatally‐deafened cats, a multi‐channel intracochlear electrode array was implanted at 8 weeks of age. One group received only minimal stimulation, associated with brief recordings at 4–6‐week intervals, over the following 6 months to check the efficacy of the implant. In the other group, this 6‐month period was followed by 6 months of near‐continuous intracochlear electrical stimulation from a modified clinical cochlear implant system. We recorded multi‐unit clusters in the auditory cortex and used two different methods to define the region of interest in the putative AI. There was no evidence of cochleotopy in any of the minimally stimulated animals, confirming our earlier finding. In three of six chronically stimulated cats there was clear evidence of AI cochleotopy, and in a fourth cat in which the majority of penetrations were in the anterior auditory field there was clear evidence of cochleotopy in that field. The finding that chronic intracochlear electrical stimulation after an extended period of deafness is able to restore cochleotopy in some (but not all) cases has implications for the performance of patients implanted after an extended period of deafness.
A protocol for concurrent high‐quality immunohistochemical and biochemical analyses in adult mouse central nervous system
Authors: Notter Tina , Panzanelli Patrizia , Pfister Sandra , Mircsof Dennis , Fritschy Jean‐Marc
Published: December 2013

Biochemical analysis of central nervous system proteins and nucleic acids requires fresh‐tissue homogenates, whereas immunohistochemistry usually is performed in sections prepared from perfusion‐fixed tissue. Post‐mortem immersion‐fixation is possible, but largely impairs morphological preservation and protein antigenicity. Here, we present a simple, fast and versatile protocol allowing concurrent biochemical and immunohistochemical analysis, including pre‐embedding immunoelectron microscopy, using tissue from the same animal. The protocol includes a brief transcardiac perfusion with ice‐cold, oxygenated and glucose‐supplemented artificial cerebrospinal fluid to maintain brain tissue alive, prior to isolation of regions of interest, followed by homogenisation for biochemistry or immersion‐fixation for immunohistochemistry. We provide several examples demonstrating that this protocol allows optimal biochemical and morphological analysis, characterised with optimal sensitivity and preservation of tissue structure, along with a reduction of artefacts typically seen in perfusion‐fixed tissue. This protocol should find widespread applications for combining analytical methods in tissue from the same animal, thereby reducing the number of mice required for a given experiment.
Sex‐Biased Senescence in a Polygynous Bat Species
Authors: Greiner Sabine , Nagy Martina , Mayer Frieder , Knörnschild Mirjam , Hofer Heribert , Voigt Christian C.
Published: December 2013

Bats live substantially longer than any other similar‐sized mammal despite high metabolic rates during flight. The underlying causes for the longevity of bats and the question whether bats exhibit signs of senescence – a progressive deterioration in performance – are still unclear. Here, we describe rates of senescence in individual annual fitness, survival and reproduction using survival and recruitment data collected over an 18‐yr period from 77 males and 81 females in a wild population ofSaccopteryx bilineata(greater sac‐winged bat), a polygynous species inhabiting colonies where female groups are defended each by a territorial male. In individuals older than 4 yr of age, individual fitness contribution, survival and recruitment declined with increasing age in males but not in females. Rates of senescence in annual individual fitness and in reproduction of males were at least an order of magnitude higher than those of females. This finding might be explained by the ‘disposable soma theory’ that attributes senescence to an optimal allocation of resources to somatic maintenance and competing traits such as reproduction. The rate of senescence in the survival of males was also significant but of the same order of magnitude as the (non‐significant) rate of females. Unlike many other polygynous mammals, greater sac‐winged bats show little overt male–male competition. As senescence in survival was only weak in males, our results are consistent with the theories for polygynous mammals, which view the trade‐off between male investment in physical traits for intense male–male competition against survival as a major source of the decline of male survival with age. This is the first study to demonstrate sex‐specific senescence rates in a wild population of a small, long‐lived mammalian species.
Pigmentation and melanocyte supply to the epidermis depend on type XVII collagen
Authors: Gostyński Antoni , Pasmooij Anna M.G. , Del Rio Marcela , Diercks Gilles F. , Pas Hendri H. , Jonkman Marcel F.
Published: December 2013

Genetic deficiency of type XVII collagen (C17), laminin‐332 or type VII collagen causes epidermolysis bullosa (EB). Spontaneous correction of the deficiency, also known as revertant mosaicism, is caused by a second somatic mutation that restores protein expression resulting in clinically healthy (revertant) patches surrounded by fragile (mutant) skin. Interestingly, in some patients, patches of revertant skin show hyperpigmentation. To study the possible role of affected proteins in pigmentation and melanocyte distribution, we investigated clinical documentation and skin biopsy specimens of 13 revertant EB patients having correcting mutations in the COL17A1, LAMB3 or COL7A1 genes. Analysis revealed that lack of C17 led to decreased melanin intensity and melanocyte density in the epidermis when compared with the revertant patches. Reversions of LAMB3 and COL7A1 in keratinocytes did not influence clinical pigmentation or density of melanocytes. We conclude that in human skin, melanocyte supply to the epidermis depends on C17 expression in keratinocytes.
A Report of Family and Consumer Sciences Graduate Research Productivity in 2012
Authors: Kabaci M. J.
Published: December 2013

Requests were sent in May 2013 to representatives of 147 universities and colleges with family and consumer science programs to collect the titles and authors of theses and dissertations completed in 2012. Twenty‐seven universities participated, and they reported a total of 425 theses and dissertations. Of those, 279 were theses and 146 were dissertations. The largest number of titles reported for both theses and dissertations was in nutrition and dietetics. An additional 266 master's students completed nonthesis options in 2012 as reported by 19 of the 27 reporting universities.
Examination of Apparel Maintenance Skills and Practices: Implications for Sustainable Clothing Consumption
Authors: Norum Pamela S.
Published: December 2013

One way to achieve greater sustainability in clothing consumption is through clothing repair and changes in laundry practices. The purpose of this research is to examine the effect of consumer characteristics, including sewing skills, on clothing maintenance activities among a sample of U.S. households. Household production theory provided the underlying theoretical framework. Ordinary least squares regressions for five different maintenance skills were estimated. Logistic regressions for three types of maintenance changes were estimated. The most interesting results indicated that baby boomers and Gen X consumers had statistically significant higher maintenance skills scores than Gen Y consumers. Also, skills had an important influence on changes in behavior toward more sustainable clothing practices. These results suggest the need for greater clothing maintenance related education, particularly among younger consumers, in the efforts toward more sustainable clothing consumption.
The Influence of Technological and Symbolic Innovation on New Product Adoption in a Social Context
Authors: Lee Sae Eun , Yang Heesoon , Lee Yuri
Published: December 2013

The purpose of this study was to investigate technological and symbolic innovation as antecedent factors that could influence the adoption of a new product, a smart phone. After conducting preliminary in‐depth interviews, the authors developed a survey. Data were collected using an online panel. The sample included young Koreans who were university students and workers in their 20s and 30s with experience in smart phone use. Structural equation modeling showed that perceived technological innovation (PTI) and perceived symbolic innovation (PSI) both affected perceived social pressures (PSP). Also, PSPs and social conspicuousness (SC) both affected new product adoption. However, the effect of PSP on adoption was greater than the effect of SC on adoption. Also, the effect of PSI on PSPs was greater than the effect of PTI. This shows that the visible attributes of symbolic innovation are a stronger motivator than the effect of less visible technology (e.g., PTI).
Impact of invasive Asian clams, Corbicula spp., on a large river ecosystem
Authors: Pigneur Lise‐Marie , Falisse Elodie , Roland Kathleen , Everbecq Etienne , Deliège Jean‐François , Smitz Joseph S. , Van Doninck Karine , Descy Jean‐Pierre
Published: December 2013

Over the past few decades, Asiatic clams (Corbicula spp.) have spread spectacularly in several large European rivers. In the River Meuse, a transnational lowland river, a substantial chlorophyll a decline has been recorded since the mid‐2000s, which seems to be related to the invasion by these exotic bivalves. This study aimed at verifying this hypothesis, using data on clam density from field surveys, water quality monitoring data and a simulation model.

Corbicula density was estimated at between 50 and 900 m−2, depending on the site. Assuming a maximum filtration rate per clam body mass of 0.086 m3 g C−1 day−1 at 20 °C, derived from the literature, we ran simulations with a non‐stationary model to estimate the impact of the bivalve on the river plankton and water quality.

In the stretches where the invasive clams were most abundant, we estimated a 70% loss of phytoplankton biomass, due to their filtration, and a 61% decline in annual primary production compared with a situation without clams. Model simulations also showed that zooplankton may have suffered as much as a 75% loss of biomass.

The simulations also point to substantial effects of Corbicula on the river oxygen budget and on nutrient cycling. We suggest that, in the heavily regulated sectors of the river, the loss of planktonic production due to these invasive filter‐feeders negatively affects other suspension feeders and alters ecosystem processes and productivity.
Molecular and lipid biomarker analysis of a gypsum‐hosted endoevaporitic microbial community
Authors: Jahnke L. L. , Turk‐Kubo K. A. , N. Parenteau M. , Green S. J. , Kubo M. D.Y. , Vogel M. , Summons R. E. , Des Marais D. J.
Published: December 2013

Modern evaporitic microbial ecosystems are important analogs for understanding the record of earliest life on Earth. Although mineral‐depositing shallow‐marine environments were prevalent during the Precambrian, few such environments are now available today for study. We investigated the molecular and lipid biomarker composition of an endoevaporitic gypsarenite microbial mat community in Guerrero Negro, Mexico. The 16S ribosomal RNA gene‐based phylogenetic analyses of this mat corroborate prior observations indicating that characteristic layered microbial communities colonize gypsum deposits world‐wide despite considerable textural and morphological variability. Membrane fatty acid analysis of the surface tan/orange and lower green mat crust layers indicated cell densities of 1.6 × 109 and 4.2 × 109 cells cm−3, respectively. Several biomarker fatty acids, ∆7,10‐hexadecadienoic, iso‐heptadecenoic, 10‐methylhexadecanoic, and a ∆12‐methyloctadecenoic, correlated well with distributions of Euhalothece, Stenotrophomonas, Desulfohalobium, and Rhodobacterales, respectively, revealed by the phylogenetic analyses. Chlorophyll (Chl) a and cyanobacterial phylotypes were present at all depths in the mat. Bacteriochlorophyl (Bchl) a and Bchl c were first detected in the oxic‐anoxic transition zone and increased with depth. A series of monomethylalkanes (MMA), 8‐methylhexadecane, 8‐methylheptadecane, and 9‐methyloctadecane were present in the surface crust but increased in abundance in the lower anoxic layers. The MMA structures are similar to those identified previously in cultures of the marine Chloroflexus‐like organism ‘Candidatus Chlorothrix halophila’ gen. nov., sp. nov., and may represent the Bchl c community. Novel 3‐methylhopanoids were identified in cultures of marine purple non‐sulfur bacteria and serve as a probable biomarker for this group in the lower anoxic purple and olive‐black layers. Together microbial culture and environmental analyses support novel sources for lipid biomarkers in gypsum crust mats.
Values associated with public involvement in health and social care research: a narrative review
Authors: Gradinger Felix , Britten Nicky , Wyatt Katrina , Froggatt Katherine , Gibson Andy , Jacoby Ann , Lobban Fiona , Mayes Debbie , Snape Dee , Rawcliffe Tim , Popay Jennie
Published: December 2013

Background

Much has been written about public involvement (PI) in health and social care research, but underpinning values are rarely made explicit despite the potential for these to have significant influence on the practice and assessment of PI.

Objective

The narrative review reported here is part of a larger MRC‐funded study which is producing a framework and related guidance on assessing the impact of PI in health and social care research. The review aimed to identify and characterize the range of values associated with PI that are central elements of the framework.

Methods

We undertook a review and narrative synthesis of diverse literatures of PI in health and social care research, including twenty existing reviews and twenty‐four chapters in sixteen textbooks.

Results

Three overarching value systems were identified, each containing five value clusters. (i) A system concerned with ethical and/or political issues including value clusters associated with empowerment; change/action; accountability/transparency; rights; and ethics (normative values). (ii). A system concerned with the consequences of public involvement in research including value clusters associated with effectiveness; quality/relevance; validity/reliability; representativeness/objectivity/generalizability; and evidence (substantive values). (iii) A system concerned with the conduct of public involvement in including value clusters associated with Partnership/equality; respect/trust; openness and honesty; independence; and clarity (process values).

Conclusion

Our review identified three systems associated with PI in health and social care research focused on normative, substantive and process values. The findings suggest that research teams should consider and make explicit the values they attach to PI in research and discuss ways in which potential tensions may be managed in order to maximize the benefits of PI for researchers, lay experts and the research.
Pro‐inflammatory cytokine release and cell growth inhibition in primary human oral cells after exposure to endodontic sealer
Authors: Diomede F. , Caputi S. , Merciaro I. , Frisone S. , D'Arcangelo C. , Piattelli A. , Trubiani O.
Published: December 2013

Aim

To assay the toxicity of the single‐methacrylate‐based sealer urethane dimethacrylate (UDMA) (EndoRez) in terms of cell growth and pro‐inflammatory cytokines release, in expanded ex vivo human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs), human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs), human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and human osteoblasts (hOSTs).

Methodology

Dental pulp and periodontal ligament stem cells, osteoblasts and fibroblasts were derived from five young donors. After in vitro isolation, hDPSCs, hPDLSCs, hGFs and hOSTs were seeded to resin‐based sealers for 24, 48, 72 h up to 1 week. The morphological features and the cell growth and the release of pro‐inflammatory interleukin (IL)6, IL8, IL12 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) α were analysed. Differences in cell growth and in interleukin secretion were analysed for statistical significance with two‐way anova tests for multiple comparisons.

Results

Exposure to endodontic sealer based on UDMA resulted in a 50% decrease in survival oral cells at 24 h of incubation. No evident morphological changes were present in cell cultures examined. After 48 h, 72 h and 1‐week culture time, a progressive cell growth was evident. A significant up‐regulation of IL6, IL8, IL12 and TNFα cytokines in cells in contact with the dental sealer compared to the control was observed.

Conclusion

In vitro, EndoRez interacted with primary human hDPSCs, hPDLSCs, hGFs and hOSTs causing damage to biological system evidenced through cell growth inhibition and up‐regulation of IL6, IL8, IL12 and TNFα proinflammatory mediators.
Effect of previous frozen storage on quality changes of grass carp (Ctenopharyngodon idellus) fillets during short‐term chilled storage
Authors: Yin Xiaofei , Luo Yongkang , Fan Hongbing , Wu Hua , Feng Ligeng
Published: December 2013

The effect of chilled, frozen and freeze‐chilled storage on quality of grass carp fillets and soups was evaluated by sensory score, total aerobic counts and biochemical quality. Fish fillets were stored at 4 °C for 6 days (T1), −40 °C for 12 h and then at −20 °C for 5 days (T2), −40 °C for 12 h and then at −20 °C for 5 days, followed by at 4 °C for 4 days (T3). T1 showed higher sensory score, salt‐soluble protein content, better colour and texture qualities than T2 and T3 within 3 days. All fillets kept good quality based on the acceptable limit of sensory score, total volatile basic nitrogen and total aerobic count during storage time. According to the transportation and retail time, chilled storage is appropriate when it is within 3 days. If it extends for 5 days, freeze‐chilling treatment keeps better quality, but later chilled fillets should be retailed within 4 days.
Blood group discrepancies at a tertiary care centre – analysis and resolution
Authors: Kaur G. , Kaur P. , Basu S. , Kaur R.
Published: December 2013

Introduction

The ABO system is the most important of all blood group systems in transfusion practice. ABO grouping is a simple, accurate, and precise procedure and to be considered valid, the results of cell grouping and serum grouping should agree. The aim of this study was to assess the cause of discrepancies and its implication in transfusion practice.

Methods

This study was performed between January 2010 and May 2013. We analyzed ABO discrepancies which were detected serologically in blood donors, where a result of cell grouping and serum grouping was discordant. Confirmation of subgroups was carried out by adsorption and elution technique. Saliva of these donors was also tested for A, B, and H antigens by inhibition tests.

Results

Twenty‐eight blood group discrepancies were observed in 44 425 blood groups tested during the study period, thus giving an overall frequency of 0.06%. Technical errors leading to blood group ABO discrepancy were noticed in five cases. Sample‐related problems that affect red‐cell testing were observed in twenty cases, and the most common cause of ABO discrepancies in this category was subgroups of A and B. ABO discrepancies that affect the serum testing included the presence of additional antibodies other than anti‐A and anti‐B.

Conclusion

It is imperative to recognize discrepant results and resolve them. Correct blood typing and labeling of an individual are essential to prevent ABO incompatibility.
Transinfection: a method to investigate Wolbachia–host interactions and control arthropod‐borne disease
Authors: Hughes G. L. , Rasgon J. L.
Published: December 2013

The bacterial endosymbiont Wolbachia manipulates arthropod host biology in numerous ways, including sex ratio distortion and differential offspring survival. These bacteria infect a vast array of arthropods, some of which pose serious agricultural and human health threats. Wolbachia‐mediated phenotypes such as cytoplasmic incompatibility and/or pathogen interference can be used for vector and disease control; however, many medically important vectors and important agricultural species are uninfected or are infected with strains of Wolbachia that do not elicit phenotypes desirable for disease or pest control. The ability to transfer strains of Wolbachia into new hosts (transinfection) can create novel Wolbachia–host associations. Transinfection has two primary benefits. First, Wolbachia–host interactions can be examined to tease apart the influence of the host and bacteria on phenotypes. Second, desirable phenotypes induced by Wolbachia in a particular insect can be transferred to another recipient host. This can allow the manipulation of insect populations that transmit pathogens or detrimentally affect agriculture. As such, transinfection is a valuable tool to explore Wolbachia biology and control arthropod‐borne disease. The present review summarizes what is currently known about Wolbachia transinfection methods and applications. We also provide a comprehensive list of published successful and unsuccessful Wolbachia transinfection attempts.
Semenovia pulvinata, S. dissectifolia, S. imbricata and S. vachanica spp. nov. from Tajikistan and other nomenclatural combinations in Semenovia (Apiaceae)
Authors: Ukrainskaja Uliana A. , Pimenov Michael G. , Kljuykov Eugene V.
Published: December 2013

The new species Semenovia pulvinata Pimenov & Kljuykov, S. dissectifolia Ukrainskaja & Kljuykov, S. imbricata Ukrainskaja & Kljuykov, and S. vachanica Ukrainskaja & Kljuykov from the mountains of Pamiro‐Alai, Tajikistan and adjacent Afghanistan, are described and illustrated. For the Chinese species S. millefolia (Diels) V. M.Vinogr. & Kamelin, also known as Heracleum millefolium Diels, the correct name is S. torilifolia (H. Boissieu) Pimenov comb. nov. based on Peucedanum torilifolium H. Boissieu. For another closely related Chinese species, Peucedanum malcolmii Hemsl. & H. Pearson, also belonging to Semenovia, the new combination S. malcolmii (Hemsl. & H. Pearson) Pimenov is proposed. Heracleum thomsonii C. B. Clarke var. glabrior C. B. Clarke from Kashmir (Ladakh) is regarded as an independent species of Semenovia, S. glabrior (C. B. Clarke) Pimenov & Kljuykov.
Sperm nuclear proteome and its epigenetic potential
Authors: Castillo J. , Amaral A. , Oliva R.
Published: December 2013

The main function of the sperm cell is to transmit the paternal genetic message and epigenetic information to the embryo. Importantly, the majority of the genes in the sperm chromatin are highly condensed by protamines, whereas genes potentially needed in the initial stages of development are associated with histones, representing a form of epigenetic marking. However, so far little attention has been devoted to other sperm chromatin‐associated proteins that, in addition to histones and protamines, may also have an epigenetic role. Therefore, with the goal of contributing to cover this subject we have compiled, reviewed and report a list of 581 chromatin or nuclear proteins described in the human sperm cell. Furthermore, we have analysed their Gene Ontology Biological Process enriched terms and have grouped them into different functional categories. Remarkably, we show that 56% of the sperm nuclear proteins have a potential epigenetic activity, being involved in at least one of the following functions: chromosome organization, chromatin organization, protein‐DNA complex assembly, DNA packaging, gene expression, transcription, chromatin modification and histone modification. In addition, we have also included and compared the sperm cell proteomes of different model species, demonstrating the existence of common trends in the chromatin composition in the mammalian mature male gamete. Taken together, our analyses suggest that the mammalian sperm cell delivers to the offspring a rich combination of histone variants, transcription factors, chromatin‐associated and chromatin‐modifying proteins which have the potential to encode and transmit an extremely complex epigenetic information.
Visit‐to‐Visit Blood Pressure Variability and Cardiovascular Death in the Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program
Authors: Kostis John B. , Sedjro Jeanine E. , Cabrera Javier , Cosgrove Nora M. , Pantazopoulos John S. , Kostis William J. , Pressel Sara L. , Davis Barry R.
Published: December 2013

Most studies of an association of visit‐to‐visit variability of blood pressure with increased risk of future adverse cardiovascular events are of short duration and rarely include a placebo group. Using data from the double‐blind, placebo‐controlled Systolic Hypertension in the Elderly Program, the authors examined mortality from cardiovascular causes up to 17 years of follow‐up using the National Death Index. Visit‐to‐visit blood pressure variability was associated with cardiovascular death after adjustment for sex, age, serum creatinine, diabetes, body mass index, smoking status, left ventricular failure, and high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The relationship was significantly stronger in the active treatment group compared with the placebo group. Although this could be the result of an effect of the medications used unrelated to visit‐to‐visit variability, the data are compatible with the hypothesis that inconsistent adherence leading to missing active medication doses may be an additional explanation for the relationship of visit‐to‐visit variability with cardiovascular death.
The Genus Cyclidiopsis: An Obituary
Authors: Bennett Matthew S. , Triemer Richard E.
Published: December 2013

Since its creation in 1917 the genus Cyclidiopsis, and its validity, has been a source of debate among euglenid taxonomists. While many authors have supported its legitimacy, various other authors have considered it to be a subgenus of Astasia or even promoted its complete dissolution. In this study, we have sequenced the small subunit and large subunit ribosomal DNA of Cyclidiopsis acus, the type species for the genus. Subsequent phylogenetic analyses showed that C. acus grouped with taxa from the genus Lepocinclis, which necessitated the removal of this taxon from Cyclidiopsis and into Lepocinclis as Lepocinclis cyclidiopsis nom. nov. After an extensive literature search it was determined that only two other previously described Cyclidiopsis taxa were morphologically distinct, and the rest were reassigned as synonyms of L. cyclidiopsis. These findings prompted a re‐examination of the initial description of Cyclidiopsis, and it was determined that the morphological characters establishing the genus as a distinct group were no longer valid in light of current phylogenetic analyses and the emended generic description for Lepocinclis. Therefore, the remaining two taxa were formally moved to the genus Lepocinclis as L. crescentia comb. nov. and L. pseudomermis comb. nov.
DEBT IPO WAVES, INVESTOR SENTIMENT, MARKET CONDITIONS, AND ISSUE QUALITY
Authors: Cai Kelly Nianyun , Jiang Xiaoquan , Lee Hei Wai
Published: December 2013

We examine the aggregate volume of straight debt initial public offerings (DIPOs) from 1970 to 2010. We find that aggregate DIPO activities display wave patterns. Both the number and total proceeds of DIPOs vary substantially over time. DIPO volume is significantly associated with yield spread, aggregate book‐to‐market ratio, stock return volatility, lagged equity IPO volume, and term spread, suggesting that investor sentiment and capital market conditions play significant roles in explaining time variations in DIPO volume. We also find that speculative‐grade DIPO issues synchronize with the business cycles, while investment‐grade issues display a steady or countercyclical pattern.
PERFORMANCE AND NEW MONEY CASH FLOWS IN REAL ESTATE MUTUAL FUNDS
Authors: Kaushik Abhay , Pennathur Anita K.
Published: December 2013

Empirical evidence on the performance of real estate mutual funds is mixed. Moreover, despite the growth of new money cash flows into the funds, research on investor rationales for the same is limited. Recent research in diversified mutual funds suggests that conventional statistics give misleading results and wrongly attribute fund performance to “skill” rather than to “luck.” Using cross‐sectional bootstrap methodology for 1990–2009, our estimates show evidence of underperformance. Moreover, it appears that ordinary least squares regressions understate the number of underperforming funds. Our analysis of new money cash flows shows evidence of momentum in fund flows and returns‐chasing behavior.
RECONSIDERING PRICE LIMIT EFFECTIVENESS
Authors: Kim Kenneth A. , Liu Haixiao , Yang J. Jimmy
Published: December 2013

We study China's experience with price limits by comparing a period with price limits to a period without price limits. Although many prior studies document costs of price limits, we show benefits of price limits. We find that price limits can facilitate price discovery, moderate transitory volatility, and mitigate abnormal trading activity. A tighter price limit for poorly performing stocks can also moderate volatility. We do not find evidence of a magnet effect, which suggests that prices gravitate to limit prices. Finally, we find evidence that price limits can facilitate market recovery following crashes.