bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Culture and the quest for universal principles in moral reasoning
Authors: Sachdeva Sonya , Singh Purnima , Medin Douglas
Published: May 2011

The importance of including cultural perspectives in the study of human cognition has become apparent in recent decades, and the domain of moral reasoning is no exception. The present review focuses on moral cognition, beginning with Kohlberg's model of moral development which relies heavily on people's justifications for their judgments and then shifting to more recent theories that rely on rapid, intuitive judgments and see justifications as more or less irrelevant to moral cognition. Despite this dramatic shift, analyses of culture and moral decision‐making have largely been framed as a quest for and test of universal principles of moral judgment. In this review, we discuss challenges that remain in trying to understand crosscultural variability in moral values and the processes that underlie moral cognition. We suggest that the universalist framework may lead to an underestimation of the role of culture in moral reasoning. Although the field has made great strides in incorporating more and more cultural perspectives in order to understand moral cognition, theories of moral reasoning still do not allow for substantial variation in how people might conceptualize the domain of the moral. The processes that underlie moral cognition may not be a human universal in any simple sense, because moral systems may play different roles in different cultures. We end our review with a discussion of work that remains to be done to understand cultural variation in the moral domain.
Extremal Kleinian groups
Authors: Abikoff William , Harvey William
Published: May 2011

In 1967, Lipman Bers proved his area inequalities for Kleinian groups and gave examples to show that they are sharp; a group for which equality holds is termed extremal. Maskit’s work on function groups published during the next decade contained implicitly a characterization of all extremal groups for the second inequality.

Here we determine the class of extremal groups for the first area inequality: these maximal area groups are all torsion-free Schottky or almost Schottky groups. For completeness, we also show that any extremal group for the second area inequality is either quasi-Fuchsian or a regular b-group.
Bundle-forming pilus retraction enhances enteropathogenicEscherichia coliinfectivity
Authors: Zahavi Eitan E. , Lieberman Joshua A. , Donnenberg Michael S. , Nitzan Mor , Baruch Kobi , Rosenshine Ilan , Turner Jerrold R. , Melamed-Book Naomi , Feinstein Naomi , Zlotkin-Rivkin Efrat , Aroeti Benjamin
Published: May 2011

Enteropathogenic Escherichia coli (EPEC) is an important human pathogen that causes acute infantile diarrhea. The type IV bundle-forming pili (BFP) of typical EPEC strains are dynamic fibrillar organelles that can extend out and retract into the bacterium. The bfpF gene encodes for BfpF, a protein that promotes pili retraction. The BFP are involved in bacterial autoaggregation and in mediating the initial adherence of the bacterium with its host cell. Importantly, BFP retraction is implicated in virulence in experimental human infection. How pili retraction contributes to EPEC pathogenesis at the cellular level remains largely obscure, however. In this study, an effort has been made to address this question using engineered EPEC strains with induced BFP retraction capacity. We show that the retraction is important for tight-junction disruption and, to a lesser extent, actin-rich pedestal formation by promoting efficient translocation of bacterial protein effectors into the host cells. A model is proposed whereby BFP retraction permits closer apposition between the bacterial and the host cell surfaces, thus enabling timely and effective introduction of bacterial effectors into the host cell via the type III secretion apparatus. Our studies hence suggest novel insights into the involvement of pili retraction in EPEC pathogenesis.
Turnover of branched actin filament networks by stochastic fragmentation with ADF/cofilin
Authors: Reymann Anne-Cécile , Suarez Cristian , Guérin Christophe , Martiel Jean-Louis , Staiger Christopher J. , Blanchoin Laurent , Boujemaa-Paterski Rajaa
Published: May 2011

Cell motility depends on the rapid assembly, aging, severing, and disassembly of actin filaments in spatially distinct zones. How a set of actin regulatory proteins that sustains actin-based force generation during motility work together in space and time remains poorly understood. We present our study of the distribution and dynamics of Arp2/3 complex, capping protein (CP), and actin-depolymerizing factor (ADF)/cofilin in actin “comet tails,” using a minimal reconstituted system with nucleation-promoting factor (NPF)-coated beads. The Arp2/3 complex concentrates at nucleation sites near the beads as well as in the first actin shell. CP colocalizes with actin and is homogeneously distributed throughout the comet tail; it serves to constrain the spatial distribution of ATP/ADP-Pifilament zones to areas near the bead. The association of ADF/cofilin with the actin network is therefore governed by kinetics of actin assembly, actin nucleotide state, and CP binding. A kinetic simulation accurately validates these observations. Following its binding to the actin networks, ADF/cofilin is able to break up the dense actin filament array of a comet tail. Stochastic severing by ADF/cofilin loosens the tight entanglement of actin filaments inside the comet tail and facilitates turnover through the macroscopic release of large portions of the aged actin network.
HOPS drives vacuole fusion by binding the vacuolar SNARE complex and the Vam7 PX domain via two distinct sites
Authors: Krämer Lukas , Ungermann Christian
Published: May 2011

Membrane fusion within the endomembrane system follows a defined order of events: membrane tethering, mediated by Rabs and tethers, assembly of soluble N-ethylmaleimide-sensitive factor (NSF) attachment protein receptor (SNARE) complexes, and lipid bilayer mixing. Here we present evidence that the vacuolar HOPS tethering complex controls fusion through specific interactions with the vacuolar SNARE complex (consisting of Vam3, Vam7, Vti1, and Nyv1) and the N-terminal domains of Vam7 and Vam3. We show that homotypic fusion and protein sorting (HOPS) binds Vam7 via its subunits Vps16 and Vps18. In addition, we observed that Vps16, Vps18, and the Sec1/Munc18 protein Vps33, which is also part of the HOPS complex, bind to the Q-SNARE complex. In agreement with this observation, HOPS-stimulated fusion was inhibited if HOPS was preincubated with the minimal Q-SNARE complex. Importantly, artificial targeting of Vam7 without its PX domain to membranes rescued vacuole morphology in vivo, but resulted in a cytokinesis defect if the N-terminal domain of Vam3 was also removed. Our data thus support a model of HOPS-controlled membrane fusion by recognizing different elements of the SNARE complex.
The CSC is required for complete radial spoke assembly and wild-type ciliary motility
Authors: Dymek Erin E. , Heuser Thomas , Nicastro Daniela , Smith Elizabeth F.
Published: May 2011

The ubiquitous calcium binding protein, calmodulin (CaM), plays a major role in regulating the motility of all eukaryotic cilia and flagella. We previously identified a CaM and Spoke associated Complex (CSC) and provided evidence that this complex mediates regulatory signals between the radial spokes and dynein arms. We have now used an artificial microRNA (amiRNA) approach to reduce expression of two CSC subunits in Chlamydomonas. For all amiRNA mutants, the entire CSC is lacking or severely reduced in flagella. Structural studies of mutant axonemes revealed that assembly of radial spoke 2 is defective. Furthermore, analysis of both flagellar beating and microtubule sliding in vitro demonstrates that the CSC plays a critical role in modulating dynein activity. Our results not only indicate that the CSC is required for spoke assembly and wild-type motility, but also provide evidence for heterogeneity among the radial spokes.
A contractile actomyosin network linked to adherens junctions by Canoe/afadin helps drive convergent extension
Authors: Sawyer Jessica K. , Choi Wangsun , Jung Kuo-Chen , He Li , Harris Nathan J. , Peifer Mark
Published: May 2011

Integrating individual cell movements to create tissue-level shape change is essential to building an animal. We explored mechanisms of adherens junction (AJ):cytoskeleton linkage and roles of the linkage regulator Canoe/afadin during Drosophila germband extension (GBE), a convergent-extension process elongating the body axis. We found surprising parallels between GBE and a quite different morphogenetic movement, mesoderm apical constriction. Germband cells have an apical actomyosin network undergoing cyclical contractions. These coincide with a novel cell shape change—cell extension along the anterior–posterior (AP) axis. In Canoe's absence, GBE is disrupted. The apical actomyosin network detaches from AJs at AP cell borders, reducing coordination of actomyosin contractility and cell shape change. Normal GBE requires planar polarization of AJs and the cytoskeleton. Canoe loss subtly enhances AJ planar polarity and dramatically increases planar polarity of the apical polarity proteins Bazooka/Par3 and atypical protein kinase C. Changes in Bazooka localization parallel retraction of the actomyosin network. Globally reducing AJ function does not mimic Canoe loss, but many effects are replicated by global actin disruption. Strong dose-sensitive genetic interactions between canoe and bazooka are consistent with them affecting a common process. We propose a model in which an actomyosin network linked at AP AJs by Canoe and coupled to apical polarity proteins regulates convergent extension.
Elbow Pain
Authors: Dawe Edward J. C. , Poulter Robert
Published: May 2011

Elbow pain is a common complaint that affects a significant proportion of the population and accounts for a high number of consultations within general practice. The cause of elbow pain in some patients may be obvious and localized such as in the case of olecranon bursitis, but in others, this may be presentation of an occult multisystem disorder. We have tried to provide both a comprehensive review of the possible causes of elbow pain as well as useful methods of history taking and examination to help differentiate between causes. Most causes of elbow pain may be effectively treated in General Practice and we have included an update on the practical techniques for injections around the joint.
Variability Among Forecast Models for the Apple Sooty Blotch/Flyspeck Disease Complex
Authors: Cooley Daniel R. , Rosenberger David A. , Gleason Mark L. , Koehler Glen , Cox Kerik , Clements Jon M. , Sutton Turner B. , Madeiras Angela , Hartman John R.
Published: May 2011

Several disease forecast models have been developed to guide treatment of the sooty blotch and flyspeck (SBFS) disease complex of apple. Generally, these empirical models are based on the accumulation of hours of leaf wetness (leaf wetness duration [LWD]) from a biofix at or near the phenological growth stage petal fall, when apple flower petals senesce and drop. The models recommend timing of the initial fungicide application targeting SBFS. However, there are significant differences among SBFS forecast models in terms of biofix and the length of LWD thresholds. A comparison of models using a single input data set generated recommendations for the first SBFS fungicide application that differed by up to 5 weeks. In an attempt to improve consistency among models, potential sources for differences were examined. Leaf wetness (LW) is a particularly variable parameter among models, depending on whether on-site or remote weather data were used, the types of sensors and their placement for on-site monitors, and the models used to estimate LW remotely. When SBFS models are applied in the field, recommended treatment thresholds do not always match the method of data acquisition, leading to potential failures. Horticultural factors, such as tree size, canopy density, and cultivar, and orchard site factors such as the distance to potential inoculum sources can impact risk of SBFS and should also be considered in forecast models. The number of fungal species identified as contributors to the SBFS disease complex has expanded tremendously in recent years. A lack of understanding of key epidemiological factors for different fungi in the complex, and which fungi represent the most challenging management problems, are obvious issues in the development of improved SBFS models. If SBFS forecast models are to be adopted, researchers will need to address these issues.
Control of Sphaeropsis Rot in Stored Apple Fruit Caused by Sphaeropsis pyriputrescens with Postharvest Fungicides
Authors: Xiao C. L. , Kim Y. K. , Boal R. J.
Published: May 2011

Sphaeropsis rot caused by Sphaeropsis pyriputrescens is a recently reported postharvest fruit rot disease of apple grown in Washington State. The objective of this study was to develop chemical-based mitigation measures for Sphaeropsis rot in stored apple fruit. To determine in vitro sensitivity of S. pyriputrescens to the three registered postharvest fungicides thiabendazole, fludioxonil, and pyrimethanil, 30 isolates of S. pyriputrescens obtained from various sources were tested for mycelial growth and conidial germination on fungicide-amended media. Golden Delicious apple fruit were inoculated with the pathogen in the orchard at 2 or 5 weeks before harvest. After harvest, fruit were either nontreated or dipped in thiabendazole, fludioxonil, or pyrimethanil solutions, stored at 0°C, and monitored for decay development for up to 9 months after harvest. The mean effective concentration of a fungicide that inhibits mycelial growth or spore germination by 50% relative to the nonamended control (EC50) values of thiabendazole, fludioxonil, and pyrimethanil on mycelial growth were 0.791, 0.0005, and 2.829 μg/ml, respectively. Fludioxonil and pyrimethanil also were effective in inhibiting conidial germination of the fungus with EC50 values of 0.02 μg/ml for fludioxonil and 5.626 μg/ml for pyrimethanil. All three postharvest fungicides applied at label rates immediately after harvest were equally effective in controlling Sphaeropsis rot in stored apple fruit, reducing disease incidence by 92 to 100% compared with the nontreated control. The results indicated that Sphaeropsis rot may be effectively controlled by the currently registered postharvest fungicides thiabendazole, fludioxonil, and pyrimethanil.
A Stochastic Optimization Method to Estimate the Spatial Distribution of a Pathogen from a Sample
Authors: Parnell S. , Gottwald T. R. , Irey M. S. , Luo W. , van den Bosch F.
Published: May 2011

Information on the spatial distribution of plant disease can be utilized to implement efficient and spatially targeted disease management interventions. We present a pathogen-generic method to estimate the spatial distribution of a plant pathogen using a stochastic optimization process which is epidemiologically motivated. Based on an initial sample, the method simulates the individual spread processes of a pathogen between patches of host to generate optimized spatial distribution maps. The method was tested on data sets of Huanglongbing of citrus and was compared with a kriging method from the field of geostatistics using the well-established kappa statistic to quantify map accuracy. Our method produced accurate maps of disease distribution with kappa values as high as 0.46 and was able to outperform the kriging method across a range of sample sizes based on the kappa statistic. As expected, map accuracy improved with sample size but there was a high amount of variation between different random sample placements (i.e., the spatial distribution of samples). This highlights the importance of sample placement on the ability to estimate the spatial distribution of a plant pathogen and we thus conclude that further research into sampling design and its effect on the ability to estimate disease distribution is necessary.
Viroplasm matrix protein Pns9 from rice gall dwarf virus forms an octameric cylindrical structure
Authors: Akita Fusamichi , Miyazaki Naoyuki , Hibino Hiroyuki , Shimizu Takumi , Higashiura Akifumi , Uehara-Ichiki Tamaki , Sasaya Takahide , Tsukihara Tomitake , Nakagawa Atsushi , Iwasaki Kenji , Omura Toshihiro
Published: May 2011

The non-structural Pns9 protein of rice gall dwarf virus (RGDV) accumulates in viroplasm inclusions, which are structures that appear to play an important role in viral morphogenesis and are commonly found in host cells infected by viruses in the family Reoviridae. Immunofluorescence and immunoelectron microscopy of RGDV-infected vector cells in monolayers, using antibodies against Pns9 of RGDV and expression of Pns9 in Spodoptera frugiperda cells, demonstrated that Pns9 is the minimal viral factor necessary for formation of viroplasm inclusion during infection by RGDV. When Pns9 in solution was observed under a conventional electron microscope, it appeared as ring-like aggregates of approximately 100 Å in diameter. Cryo-electron microscopic analysis of these aggregates revealed cylinders of octameric Pns9, whose dimensions were similar to those observed under the conventional electron microscope. Octamerization of Pns9 in solution was confirmed by the results of size-exclusion chromatography. Among proteins of viruses that belong to the family Reoviridae whose three-dimensional structures are available, a matrix protein of the viroplasm of rotavirus, NSP2, forms similar octamers, an observation that suggests similar roles for Pns9 and NSP2 in morphogenesis in animal-infecting and in plant-infecting reoviruses.
Medical management of paraquat ingestion
Authors: Gawarammana Indika B. , Buckley Nicholas A.
Published: May 2011

Poisoning by paraquat herbicide is a major medical problem in parts of Asia while sporadic cases occur elsewhere. The very high case fatality of paraquat is due to inherent toxicity and lack of effective treatments. We conducted a systematic search for human studies that report toxicokinetics, mechanisms, clinical features, prognosis and treatment. Paraquat is rapidly but incompletely absorbed and then largely eliminated unchanged in urine within 12–24 h. Clinical features are largely due to intracellular effects. Paraquat generates reactive oxygen species which cause cellular damage via lipid peroxidation, activation of NF‐κB, mitochondrial damage and apoptosis in many organs. Kinetics of distribution into these target tissues can be described by a two‐compartment model. Paraquat is actively taken up against a concentration gradient into lung tissue leading to pneumonitis and lung fibrosis. Paraquat also causes renal and liver injury. Plasma paraquat concentrations, urine and plasma dithionite tests and clinical features provide a good guide to prognosis. Activated charcoal and Fuller's earth are routinely given to minimize further absorption. Gastric lavage should not be performed. Elimination methods such as haemodialysis and haemoperfusion are unlikely to change the clinical course. Immunosuppression with dexamethasone, cyclophosphamide and methylprednisolone is widely practised, but evidence for efficacy is very weak. Antioxidants such as acetylcysteine and salicylate might be beneficial through free radical scavenging, anti‐inflammatory and NF‐κB inhibitory actions. However, there are no published human trials. The case fatality is very high in all centres despite large variations in treatment.
Secondary cancers following allogeneic haematopoietic cell transplantation in adults
Authors: Majhail Navneet S.
Published: May 2011

Secondary cancers that arise in allogeneic haematopoietic‐cell transplant recipients, possibly as a result of treatment exposures, are a relatively rare complication of transplantation. However, they can be associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Secondary cancers include post‐transplant lymphoproliferative disorders, new solid cancers and donor‐derived haematological malignancies. This review describes the epidemiology, risk factors and screening recommendations for secondary cancers among adult allogeneic haematopoietic‐cell transplant recipients. Constructing a patient‐specific risk profile based on known exposures and risk‐factors is the key to developing appropriate screening and preventative strategies for secondary cancers after allogeneic transplantation.
Health‐related quality of life among thyroid cancer survivors: a systematic review
Authors: Husson Olga , Haak Harm R. , Oranje Wilma A. , Mols Floortje , Reemst Peter H. M. , van de Poll‐Franse Lonneke V.
Published: May 2011

Background  Treatment and follow‐up care procedures of thyroid cancer impose great challenges on survivors and could potentially affect their health‐related quality of life (HRQoL).

Methods  Two authors systematically reviewed the available literature on HRQoL of thyroid cancer survivors. A PubMed literature search for original articles published until February 2011 was performed. Twenty‐seven articles, published between 1997 and 2010, which met the predefined inclusion criteria, were subjected to a quality checklist.

Results  All selected studies, except one, were of adequate or good quality. Surgery had a negative impact on short‐term HRQoL scores, but these scores returned to preoperational levels when time since surgery increased. Long‐term thyroid hormone therapy (levothyroxine) can lead to abnormalities like hyperthyroidism. HRQoL was most affected during thyroid hormone withdrawal for radioiodine remnant ablation or follow‐up procedures. The use of recombinant human thyroid stimulating hormone instead of hormone withdrawal leads to considerable improvements in HRQoL during follow‐up testing. The results for (long‐term) survivors were contradicting. While most (long‐term) survivors report some specific long‐lasting health problems, some studies found a lower HRQoL for thyroid cancer survivors compared with a healthy population or other reference groups, whereas other studies found similar HRQoL levels.

Conclusion  This review indicates that thyroid cancer survivors generally have a similar or slightly worse HRQoL compared with the normative population; however, they report some specific medical problems after cancer treatment and follow‐up tests, which have a direct negative impact on their current HRQoL and could affect their long‐term HRQoL. Specific longitudinal survivorship studies are lacking.
Activated protein C protects vascular endothelial cells from apoptosis in malaria and in sepsis
Authors: Hemmer Christoph J. , Löbermann Micha , Unverricht Marcus , Vogt A. , Krause Robert , Reisinger Emil C.
Published: May 2011

Objective  In malaria and sepsis, apoptotic endothelial damage is preventable in vitro by antioxidants and protease inhibitors. Activated protein C, which has anti‐apoptotic effects, improves survival in sepsis. Therefore, we studied whether activated protein C prevents endothelial cell apoptosis, induced by serum from patients with malaria or sepsis.

Methods  Endothelial cells were incubated with patient sera (Plasmodium falciparum malaria, Escherichia coli sepsis, Staphylococcus aureus sepsis) or culture supernatants of the respective organisms, with or without neutrophils. Activated protein C was used to reduce endothelial cell apoptosis in vitro. The proportion of apoptotic endothelial cells was determined by TUNEL staining.

Results  The apoptosis‐inducing effect of patient sera or culture supernatants (P. falciparum, E. coli, S. aureus) on endothelial cells was augmented by neutrophils and reduced by activated protein C in the presence of neutrophils. Pre‐incubating either endothelial cells or neutrophils with activated protein C also reduced the endothelial cell apoptosis rate. The pro‐apoptotic effect of P. falciparum supernatant was reduced by pan‐caspase inhibitor and caspase 8 inhibitor, but not by caspase 9 inhibitor. The pro‐apoptotic effect of E. coli and S. aureus supernatants was also reduced by caspase 9 inhibitor.

Conclusions  Activated protein C protects vascular endothelial cells from apoptosis triggered by patient sera or culture supernatants in combination with neutrophils. It seems to act both on neutrophils and on endothelial cells. Activated protein C blocks caspase‐8‐dependent apoptosis, which accounts for endothelial damage in sepsis and malaria. Therefore, activated protein C might offer clinical benefit not only in sepsis but also in malaria.
Increase in de novo allergies after paediatric liver transplantation: The Brisbane experience
Authors: Noble C. , Peake J. , Lewindon P. J.
Published: May 2011

Noble C, Peake J, Lewindon PJ. Increase in de novo allergies after paediatric liver transplantation: The Brisbane experience.  Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 451–454. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Pediatric liver transplantation is a successful procedure with 10‐yr survival rate of 70%; following transplantation, the emphasis on promoting good quality of life is important. The increasing prevalence of allergic disorders in the general population and an increase in food allergy following solid organ transplantation are described in patients, especially in children, but the contribution to morbidity post‐OLT has not been addressed. Objectives: Identifying the incidence de novo allergies post‐OLT performed by QLTS over 11 yr. Methods: Comprehensive medical record review of OLT recipients during study period. Results: From 1st July 1998 to 1st August 2009, 78 children received 85 cadaveric OLT; 60 children survived. Allergic disease was documented in 24/60 (40%) survivors. De novo food allergies were diagnosed in 12/60 (20%) (Table 2), 9/12 occurred in children who were infants at time of transplant. Ten of 12 had severe allergies, six anaphylactic; 6/60 (10%) carry an EpiPen. Only 31/60 (51%) diagnosed are followed in Queensland, suggesting severe allergic disease in our cohort is an underestimate. Conclusion: Serious allergic disease post‐OLT is clinically important, especially in infants at time of transplant, and should be targeted for specialist allergist referral and risk management.

 Allergic diseases reported in pre‐ and post‐OLT

Atopy
Pre‐transplant number N = 78
Post‐transplant number N = 78

Asthma
 4
5

Eczema
3
6

Allergic rhinitis
1
1

Food allergy
2
14

Eosinophilic oesophagitis
1
4

Other (drug)
6
19

Total
17 reactions 10 patients
49 reactions 24 patients
Recurrent intrahepatic pigmented stones after liver transplantation in a patient with hemoglobin SC disease: Case report and review of the literature
Authors: Tomaino Juli , Keegan Tara , Kerkar Nanda , Facciuto Marcelo , Miloh Tamir , Taouli Bachir , Hurlet Anne , Weintraub Joshua , Sejpal Divyesh , Arnon Ronen
Published: May 2011

Tomaino J, Keegan T, Kerkar N, Facciuto M, Miloh T, Taouli B, Hurlet A, Weintraub J, Sejpal D, Arnon R. Recurrent intrahepatic pigmented stones after liver transplantation in a patient with hemoglobin SC disease: Case report and review of the literature.  Pediatr Transplantation 2011: 15: 519–524. © 2011 John Wiley & Sons A/S.

Abstract:  Patients with hemoglobinopathies may have hepatic involvement, which if severe, can lead to chronic liver disease and a need for liver transplant. Here, we present a case of a 16‐yr‐old female adolescent who presented to our center with hemoglobin SC disease, obstructive jaundice because of pigmented intrahepatic biliary stones, and progressive liver disease. She underwent a successful liver transplant but a few years later, she developed recurrent cholangitis and graft dysfunction because of recurrent intrahepatic biliary stones. Recurrent formation of intrahepatic stones after liver transplant is a rare and severe complication in patients with hemoglobinopathies. We recommend hypertransfusion therapy and surveillance imaging studies after liver transplant for early detection and prevention of this complication.
The hypoxia responsive transcription factor genes ERF71/HRE2 and ERF73/HRE1 of Arabidopsis are differentially regulated by ethylene
Authors: Hess Natalia , Klode Mathias , Anders Marco , Sauter Margret
Published: May 2011

The AR2/ERF transcription factor genes ERF71/HRE2 and ERF73/HRE1 were induced at hypoxic conditions in Arabidopsis thaliana roots. ERF73/HRE1 but not its related gene ERF71/HRE2 was furthermore regulated by ethylene. Treatment with 1 ppm ethylene promoted ERF73/HRE1 expression fivefold. This induction did not occur in the presence of the ethylene receptor inhibitor 1‐methylcyclopropene. ERF73/HRE1 expression positively regulated alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH) activity, which was analyzed as a marker enzyme for metabolic adaptation to hypoxic stress. The knock out lines erf73/hre1‐1 and erf73/hre1‐2 showed lowered ADH activity; the overexpressing lines ERF73/HRE1‐ox1 and ERF73/HRE1‐ox5 displayed elevated ADH activity. Treatment of wild‐type Arabidopsis with 5% O2 and 1 ppm ethylene resulted in higher induction of ADH activity than that observed with 5% O2 or 1 ppm ethylene alone. ERF73/HRE1‐ox1 and ERF73/HRE1‐ox5 plants that were exposed to 5% O2 did not show enhanced ADH activity after treatment with ethylene, indicating that the ethylene response with respect to ADH activity was saturated in the ERF73/HRE1ox lines. In contrast, erf73/hre1‐1 and erf73/hre1‐2 lines displayed ethylene‐dependent ADH activity pointing to redundant factor(s) that can mediate ethylene regulation of ADH activity in the Arabidopsis root. Our data show that ethylene regulates metabolic adaptation to low oxygen stress in the Arabidopsis root through ERF73/ HRE1.
A high‐resolution portrait of the annual dynamics of photochemical and non‐photochemical quenching in needles of Pinus sylvestris
Authors: Porcar‐Castell Albert
Published: May 2011

Partitioning of excitation energy between photochemical quenching (PQ) and non‐photochemical quenching (NPQ) processes is constantly adjusted in the leaf in order to preserve the photosynthetic energy balance. Adjustments in PQ and NPQ often result from a combination of different temporal components that can be simplified into reversible and sustained components. While reversible PQ and NPQ are relatively well understood, the controls behind the sustained components of PQ and NPQ, or the interaction between sustained and reversible NPQ, remain elusive. In this study, I used a full year of high‐resolution chlorophyll fluorescence (ChlF) data obtained with a Monitoring‐PAM fluorometer (Walz, Effeltrich, Germany) in needles of boreal Pinus sylvestris in situ to quantitatively analyse the dynamics and interaction between temporal components of NPQ and PQ and their control by the environment. To enable the estimation of sustained and reversible components of PQ and NPQ, a number of key ChlF parameters were reviewed and adapted to the analysis of long‐term monitoring data. Overall, NPQ was drastically enhanced during winter via the accumulation of sustained NPQ in a process regulated by air temperature. Reversible NPQ retained some functionality even at temperatures well below zero and was not inhibited by the presence of sustained NPQ per se but by low temperatures alone. This suggests that temporal NPQ components co‐operate in an additive rather than complementary fashion, conferring additional flexibility to the photoprotective role of NPQ. Finally, the potential of the sustained photochemical quenching parameter (qLs) to track photoinhibition in situ was discussed.
In vitro antifungal evaluation and structure–activity relationship of diphenyl diselenide and synthetic analogues
Authors: Loreto Érico Silva , Nunes Mario Débora Alves , Santurio Janio Morais , Alves Sydney Hartz , Nogueira Cristina Wayne , Zeni Gilzon
Published: May 2011

We report on in vitro antifungal activity and the structure–activity relationship of diphenyl diselenide [(PhSe)2] and its synthetic analogues, (p‐Cl‐C6H4Se)2, (m‐CF3‐C6H4Se)2 and (p‐CH3O‐C6H4Se)2, against 116 strains of pathogenic fungi. (PhSe)2 showed the highest inhibitory activity against Candida albicans (minimum inhibitory concentration of 4–32 μg ml−1), Candida dubliniensis (2–16 μg ml−1), Aspergillus spp. (0.5–64 μg ml−1) and Fusarium spp. (2–16 μg ml−1). Its minimum fungicidal concentration (MFC) varied among C. albicans (4–64 μg ml−1), C. dubliniensis (2–32 μg ml−1) and Fusarium spp. (4–64 μg ml−1). Antifungal activity was decreased by the introduction of functional groups to the (PhSe)2 molecule: (PhSe)2 > (p‐CH3O‐C6H4Se)2 > (m‐CF3‐C6H4Se)2 > (p‐Cl‐C6H4Se)2.
Effect of Preventive Intrauterine Ozone Application on Reproductive Efficiency in Holstein Cows
Authors: Djuricic D , Vince S , Ablondi M , Dobranic T , Samardzija M
Published: May 2011

Contents

The aim of the research was to determine the influence of preventive application of two different ozone preparations on reproductive efficiency in dairy cows with physiological puerperium. The research was conducted on 404 Holstein cows aged 2–8 years, divided into three groups. The first group consisted of cows treated using 6 intrauterine ozone pearls (RIPROMED OVULI O3®, Novagen, Italy) at once. The second group consisted of cows treated with ozone foam spray (RIGER SPRAY®, Novagen, Italy) application in the body of uterus for 5 s, and the third group was the control group. Cows from the first two groups were observed and treated during early puerperium, 24–48 h after parturition. To assess the reproductive performance of Holstein cows, interval from calving to first insemination (days open to first service, DOFS), interval from calving to pregnancy (days open to pregnancy, DOP), relative pregnancy rate (%), first service conception rate (FSCR, %) and all service conception rate (ASCR, %) were measured. The estimate of hazard ratio (HR) for group B relative to group C for DOFS was 0.62 (p = 0.0002), implying that the relative rate of first service decreased in the control group by 38%. The estimate of HR for group B relative to group C for DOP was 0.65 (p = 0.0006), implying that the relative rate of pregnancy decreased in group C by 35%. Cows treated with Riger spray (group B) became pregnant earlier and had better FSCR and ASCR. It is supposed that the form of ozone preparations and the amount of active substance were decisive. A conclusion may be made that preventive ozone intrauterine application during early puerperal period, especially the foaming form of ozone preparations (spray), improved the reproductive efficacy in dairy cows.
Basic FGF Promotes Proliferation of Ovarian Granulosa Cells in the Laying Chickens Via FGFR1 and PKC Pathway
Authors: Lin J , Jia Y , Zeng W , Mi Y , Zhang C
Published: May 2011

Contents

The proliferating effect of basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF) on granulosa cells from ovarian pre‐hierarchical follicles was evaluated in the laying chickens. Expression of bFGF receptor 1 (FGFR1) from small yellow follicles was determined by immunohistochemistry and RT‐PCR. The FGFR1 protein and mRNA were intensively expressed in the granulosa layer. After 8‐ to 24‐h treatment with bFGF (0.1–100 ng/ml), the proliferation of cultured granulosa cells was remarkably enhanced in a dose‐ and time‐dependent manner. The FGFR1 antagonist SU5402 inhibited bFGF‐induced cell proliferation. This stimulating effect was further confirmed by 5‐bromo‐2‐deoxyuridine incorporation and terminal transferase dUTP nick end‐labelling assay. Immunocytochemistry of protein kinases A (PKA) and C (PKC) showed that the pro‐proliferation action of bFGF predominantly activated PKC expression. Meanwhile, the bFGF‐induced cell proliferation was significantly promoted by PKC activator PMA and inhibited by PKC inhibitor H7 (p < 0.05). In addition, the bFGF‐elicited cell proliferation was accompanied with increased mRNA expression of the cell cycle‐regulating genes including cyclins D1 and E1, cyclin‐dependent kinases 2 and 6. In conclusion, bFGF promoted the proliferation of ovarian granulosa cells through binding with FGFR1 and involving PKC pathway in the pre‐hierarchical follicles of the laying chickens.
Effect of an acute mechanical stimulus on aortic structure in the transverse aortic constriction mouse model
Authors: Chen Jing , Wu Jian , Li Lei , Zou Yun‐Zeng , Zhu Ding‐Liang , Gao Ping‐Jin
Published: May 2011

1. Vascular remodelling is an adaptive response to various stimuli, including mechanical forces, inflammatory cytokines and hormones. In the present study, we investigated histological modification of the aorta and the expression of key proteins participating in vascular remodelling under an acute mechanical stimulus using a transverse aortic constriction (TAC) mouse model.

2. The TAC was performed in male C57BL/6 mice aged 10–12 weeks. A Millar conductance catheter was used to measure cardiac haemodynamic parameters 3 and 14 days after TAC. Aortic structural variations were observed by haematoxylin and eosin, Sirius red and Weigert’s elastin staining. Protein levels of Type I collagen, F4/80, α‐smooth muscle actin (SMA) and SM22α were analysed by immunohistochemistry.

3. Three days after TAC, the medial area proximal to the aortic band (PA‐B) was increased, whereas the area distal to the aortic band (DA‐B) was unchanged. There was no difference in luminal area between TAC and sham groups. The adventitia displayed the most significant difference 14 days after TAC: adventitial hyperplasia was abundant and collagen was upregulated in the adventitia of the PA‐B with a considerable increase in α‐SMA and SM22α. Macrophages accumulated in the adventitia of the PA‐B 3 days after TAC and infiltrated into the media and intima of the PA‐B 14 days after TAC.

4. In conclusion, the aortic structure undergoes considerable remodelling following an acute mechanical stimulus in the TAC model, mainly in the adventitia. Upregulation of α‐SMA and extracellular matrix components accompanied by macrophage infiltration may contribute to adventitial modification in the TAC mouse model.
Mismatch repair status in sporadic colorectal cancer: Immunohistochemistry and microsatellite instability analyses
Authors: Yoon Yong Sik , Yu Chang Sik , Kim Tae Won , Kim Jong Hoon , Jang Se Jin , Cho Dong Hyung , Roh Seon Ae , Kim Jin Cheon
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  The aim of the present study was to evaluate associations between mismatch repair (MMR) status and clinicopathological characteristics and prognosis using immunohistochemistry (IHC) and microsatellite instability (MSI) analyses in a prospective cohort of a large number of accumulated samples.

Methods:  Tumor tissue samples obtained during curative surgery (n = 2028) were analyzed using both MLH1/MSH2 IHC and MSI assays. Clinicopathological parameters and survival outcomes were compared according to IHC and MSI results. The median follow‐up period was 43 months (range: 1–85 months).

Results:  IHC identified 207 tumor samples (10.2%) with a loss of either MLH1 or MSH2 expression. The MSI analysis identified 203 tumor samples (10%) with high‐frequency MSI (MSI‐H). Patients with MMR defects were younger, and had tumors characterized by right‐colon predilection; large‐size, infrequent lymph node metastasis; poorly‐differentiated or mucinous histology, and synchronous adenomas (P < 0.001–0.008). Patients with MSI‐H status had higher 4‐year disease‐free survival rates than patients with microsatellite stable status (90.8% vs 80.6%, P = 0.001). A multivariate analysis showed that MSI‐H status was a good prognostic factor for recurrence (hazard ratio: 0.48, 95% confidence interval: 0.30–0.83, P = 0.007).

Conclusions:  Patients with MMR defects had distinct clinicopathological characteristics, including a lower risk of recurrence. IHC and MSI analyses provided complementary information regarding specific clinicopathological parameters and prognosis.
Which should go first during same‐day bidirectional endosocopy with propofol sedation?
Authors: Hsieh Yu‐Hsi , Lin Hwai‐Jeng , Tseng Kuo‐Chih
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  Same‐day bidirectional endoscopy, including esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) and colonoscopy, is frequently performed to screen for cancer and gastrointestinal bleeding. However, the optimal sequence for the procedures is unclear thus far. The aim of this study was to evaluate the optimal sequence for same‐day bidirectional endoscopy.

Methods:  Consecutive patients undergoing same‐day bidirectional endoscopy under propofol sedation were randomized to either the colonoscopy‐first group (colonoscopy followed by EGD, n = 87) or the EGD‐first group (EGD followed by colonoscopy, n = 89). We evaluated the propofol dose, procedure duration, patient tolerance and recovery, adverse events, and endoscopic findings. The patient tolerance was assessed with a 0–10 visual analog scale.

Results:  Total procedure times, patients' tolerance and recovery, adverse events, and endoscopic findings were similar between the two groups. The total propofol dose was significantly higher for the colonoscopy‐first group than for the EGD‐first group (mean 95% credibility limit: 135.7 [70–201.4] mg vs 124.7 [64.1–185.3] mg, respectively, P = 0.024). Patients in the colonoscopy‐first group moved significantly more during colonoscopy than those in the EGD‐first group: 1.1 (0–3.8) versus 0.6 (0–2.9) scores, respectively (P = 0.024).

Conclusion:  The optimal sequence for same‐day bidirectional endoscopy is EGD followed by colonoscopy. In this order, the procedure is better tolerated, and patients require a lower overall dose of propofol.
Impact of introduction of wire‐guided cannulation in therapeutic biliary endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography
Authors: Nakai Yousuke , Isayama Hiroyuki , Tsujino Takeshi , Sasahira Naoki , Hirano Kenji , Kogure Hirofumi , Sasaki Takashi , Kawakubo Kazumichi , Yagioka Hiroshi , Yashima Yoko , Mizuno Suguru , Yamamto Keisuke , Arizumi Toshihiko , Togawa Osamu , Matsubara Saburo , Yamamoto Natsuyo , Tada Minoru , Omata Masao , Koike Kazuhiko
Published: May 2011

Background and Aim:  Wire‐guided cannulation (WGC) might increase the biliary cannulation rate and decrease the risk of post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) pancreatitis (PEP). We assessed the learning curve for WGC in therapeutic biliary ERCP (study 1) and compared WGC and conventional contrast‐assisted cannulation (CC) by a matched case‐control study (study 2).

Methods:  Prospectively collected data of 500 therapeutic biliary ERCP cases (250 consecutive cases of WGC and 250 matched controls of CC) were retrospectively studied. Rate and time of biliary cannulation, total procedure time, PEP, and hyperamylasemia were analyzed.

Results:  In study 1, biliary cannulation by WGC was successful in 96% of the first 50 cases, with a median time to cannulation of 3 min. Rates of hyperamylasemia were within 10% after 100 WGC. In study 2, there were no significant differences in the overall cannulation rate and PEP between WGC and CC, but the total procedure time was shorter in WGC (30 vs 35 min, P = 0.059). Rates of hyperamylasemia and the change in serum amylase levels was lower (9% vs 14%, P = 0.069, and + 62.8 U/L vs+ 169.5 U/L, P = 0.043) in WGC, which was more prominent in experienced endoscopists (9% vs 17%, P = 0.025, and + 68.9 U/L vs+ 229.3 U/L, P = 0.014).

Conclusions:  The introduction of WGC was effective in the first 50 cases and did not increase the rate of PEP in biliary therapeutic ERCP.
Extensive distribution of glial cytoplasmic inclusions in an autopsied case of multiple system atrophy with a prolonged 18‐year clinical course
Authors: Masui Kenta , Nakata Yukako , Fujii Naoki , Iwaki Toru
Published: May 2011

We describe herein an autopsied case of multiple system atrophy (MSA) with prolonged clinical course of 18 years, and evaluate the extent of neurodegeneration and glial cytoplasmic inclusions (GCIs) in the entire brain of this rare case. A 64‐year‐old woman presented with typical neurological symptoms and imaging features of MSA. Thereafter, she became bedridden, and breathing was assisted through a tracheostomy for 12 years. She died at the age of 82 after 18 years from the initial symptom. Post mortem examination revealed severe neurodegeneration in the inferior olive, pontine nuclei, substantia nigra, locus ceruleus, putamen and cerebellum. Notably, phosphorylated α‐synuclein (p‐α‐syn)‐positive GCIs were found in these areas, but their number was very low. In contrast, the density of GCIs was much higher in such regions as the tectum/tegmentum of the brainstem, pyramidal tracts, neocortices and limbic system, which usually contain a small number of GCIs. Another constituent of GCIs, ubiquitin (Ub) and Ub‐associated autophagy substrate p62, were also positive in some GCIs, and distribution of Ub/p62 immunoreactivity was proportionate to that of p‐α‐syn+ GCIs despite the very long duration of the disease. Furthermore, this case had complicated hypoxic encephalopathy, but p‐α‐syn+ GCIs were also found in the damaged white matter, indicating the contribution of α‐syncleinopathy as well as hypoxic effect to the secondary myelin and axonal loss in the white matter. Together, this rare case suggests the contribution of the disease duration to the prevalence of GCIs, and the possible involvement of the limbic system in extensive‐stage disease.
Prostatic abscess caused by community‐acquired methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus
Authors: Park Seung Chol , Lee Jea Whan , Rim Joung Sik
Published: May 2011

Prostatic abscess is uncommon and difficult to diagnose, because its clinical presentation mimics lower urinary tract symptoms. Prostatic abscess is often caused by gram‐negative organisms and occasionally by Staphylococcus aureus. Community‐acquired methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) often causes skin and soft‐tissue infections, and rarely causes genitourinary infections. We report what we believe is the second case of a prostatic abscess as a result of MRSA in a healthy diabetic patient who was treated with transurethral resection of the prostate and intravenous administration of vancomycin.