bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recurrences of hepatocellular carcinoma following complete remission by transarterial chemoembolization or radiofrequency therapy: Focused on the recurrence patterns
Authors: Park Wonhyeong , Chung Young‐Hwa , Kim Jeong A. , Jin Young‐Joo , Lee Don , Shim Ju Hyun , Lee Danbi , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young‐Suk , Lee Han Chu , Lee Yung Sang , Kim Pyo Nyun , Sung Kyu Bo
Published: January 2013

Aim

In this study, we analyzed the rates and patterns of recurrences in hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients who had achieved complete remission (CR) by transarterial chemoembolization (TACE) or radiofrequency ablation (RFA), and also examined the differences of recurrence patterns between TACE‐treated and RFA‐treated groups.

Methods

We followed 309 consecutive HCC patients who achieved CR following TACE (n = 220) or RFA (n = 89) for a median of 68 months. Recurrence patterns were classified as local recurrence and secondary tumor according to location of recurrence (≤2 cm and >2 cm from primary tumor).

Results

Recurred HCC had been found in 231 out of 309 patients (75%) with CR by TACE or RFA; 112 local recurrences (48%), 100 secondary tumor (43%) and 19 both (9%). The cumulative recurrence rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were 22%, 64% and 79%, respectively. The overall recurrences at 1, 3 and 5 years following CR in the TACE‐treated group was not different from those in the RFA‐treated group (21%, 68% and 81% vs 26%, 56% and 84%, respectively; P = NS) However, the cumulative occurrence rates of local recurrence rates at 1, 3 and 5 years were significantly higher in the TACE‐treated group compared to the RFA‐treated group (15%, 53% and 65% vs 15%, 27% and 34%, respectively; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Recurrence of HCC is very common, even following CR by TACE or RFA. Especially, local recurrences are very frequent in cases who achieved CR by TACE, which suggests that additional ablation therapy may be beneficial to prevent recurrences following CR by TACE.
Physicochemical and functional properties of chitosans affected by storage periods of crab leg shell
Authors: No Hong Kyoon , Youn Dal Kyoung , Byun Sung Mi , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: January 2013

Effects of storage period (0, 1, 2, 3 and 4 months) of crab leg shell at room temperature on selected physicochemical and functional properties of E‐ and G‐chitosans, respectively, prepared from entire (E) and ground (G) shells were evaluated. Increased storage period of crab shell generally increased degree of deacetylation (DD) and viscosity, but decreased DPPH radical scavenging activity of both chitosans. Water‐binding (WBC) and fat‐binding (FBC) capacities of E‐chitosan were not affected by storage period of crab shell; however, those of G‐chitosan significantly increased when crab shell was stored for more than 1 month. Dye‐binding capacity (DBC) of both chitosans decreased when crab shell was stored for 1 month, but further decrease was not observed with increased storage period to 4 months. Prepared with 4‐month stored crab shell, E‐chitosan exhibited comparable viscosity, colour whiteness index, DPPH radical scavenging activity and DBC, but lower DD, WBC and FBC than G‐chitosan.
The effect of hydrogen peroxide bleaching of canola meal on product colour, dry matter and protein extractability and molecular weight profile
Authors: El‐Kadiri Ihsane , Khelifi Mohamed , Aider Mohammed
Published: January 2013

The aim of this study was to bleach canola meal by hydrogen peroxide to understand the treatment effect on product colour, dry matter and nitrogen extractability. Meal suspensions at 2.5%, 5% and 10% (w/v) were treated in 3, 6 and 10% H2O2 at pH 3, 7 and 10. The bleached meal was extracted under acidic and alkaline conditions. The results showed a high bleaching effectiveness of canola meal by H2O2. The L* parameter was increased from 47.18 ± 0.56 up to 86.80 ± 1.05. Effect of pH was significant and the highly bleached meal was obtained at pH 10. Extractability of dry matter was increased when the meal was treated with H2O2, from 26.87 ± 0.10% for the control meal up to 83.20 ± 0.59% for the meal treated in 10% H2O2 in a 2.5% (w/v) suspension. Sodium dodecyl sulphate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis showed a depolymerisation effect of H2O2 on the high molecular weight proteins.
Association of PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 Gene polymorphisms and rheumatoid arthritis in Zahedan, Southeast Iran
Authors: Hashemi M. , Atabaki M. , Daneshvar H. , Zakeri Z. , Eskandari‐Nasab E.
Published: January 2013

In this study we aimed to evaluate the possible association of PTPN22 rs2476601 as well as epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) rs17337023 gene polymorphism and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) in a sample of Iranian population. This case‐control study was performed on 120 patients with RA and 120 healthy subjects. Genomic DNA was extracted from whole blood and PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 polymorphisms were determined using tetra amplification refractory mutation system–polymerase chain reaction (T‐ARMS‐PCR). The results showed that PTPN22 rs2476601 CT genotype as well as rs2476601 T allele was a risk factor for susceptibility to RA (OR=5.89 95%CI = 1.78–19.48, P = 0.004 and OR = 4.78, 95%CI = 1.59–14.35, P = 0.003, respectively). We also found that EGFR rs17337023 AT and rs17337023 TT genotypes were risk factor for susceptibility to RA (OR = 9.94 95%CI = 3.65–26.73, P < 0.001 and OR = 3.66, 95%CI = 1.46–9.15, P = 0.005, respectively). In addition the EGFR rs17337023 T allele was a risk for predisposition to RA (OR = 1.56, 95%CI=1.06‐2.30, P = 0.030). In conclusion, we found an association between PTPN22 rs2476601 and EGFR rs17337023 polymorphisms and the risk of RA in a sample of Iranian population.
Non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs for lower urinary tract symptoms in benign prostatic hyperplasia: systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kahokehr Arman , Vather Ryash , Nixon Anthony , Hill Andrew G.
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the most frequent benign neoplasm in ageing men. Histological studies have shown that intraprostatic inflammatory infiltration is seen in 43–98% of BPH tissues. Preclinical investigations have shown inhibition of growth in the BPH cell line in vitro after treatment with NSAIDs.

This review provides evidence that NSAIDs result in improved symptoms and urinary flow associated with BPH. Further research and larger clinical trials are needed to assess the safety and long‐term impact of NSAID use in men with BPH. From the clinical viewpoint, the development of substances that can inhibit inflammatory changes in the hyperplastic prostate may provide new treatment strategies.

Objective

To assess the effects of non‐steroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) in men with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) using systematic review and meta‐analysis of clinical trials.

Subjects

Men treated with NSAIDs in comparison with placebo or other BPH medications.

Methods

All aspects of the Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement were followed. Trials were eligible for inclusion provided they (i) randomized men with BPH to receive NSAIDs in comparison with placebo or other BPH medications, and (ii) included clinical outcomes such as urological symptom scales, symptoms or urodynamic measurements. Data analysis was performed using Review Manager Version 5.0 software. Study weight was calculated by the inverse variances of the study effect estimates.

Results

In all, 183 men from three randomized, placebo‐controlled trials (lasting 4–24 weeks) were assessed. NSAIDs improved urinary symptom scores and flow measures. The weighted mean difference for the International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS) was −2.89 IPSS points (95% CI −3.84 to −1.95, P < 0.001, n = 3 studies). The weighted mean difference for peak urine flow was 0.89 mL/s (95% CI 0.21–1.58, P = 0.01, n = 3 studies) and for reported adverse effects was 1.51 (95% CI 0.66–3.43, P = 0.32, n = 3 studies,). All patients assigned to NSAIDs continued the treatment. There were no serious adverse effects and there were no withdrawals or losses to follow‐up.

Conclusion

The evidence suggests that NSAIDs improve urinary symptoms and flow measures. Their long‐term effectiveness, safety and ability to prevent BPH complications are not known.
Effects of 12 weeks of tadalafil treatment on ejaculatory and orgasmic dysfunction and sexual satisfaction in patients with mild to severe erectile dysfunction: integrated analysis of 17 placebo‐controlled studies
Authors: Paduch Darius A. , Bolyakov Alexander , Polzer Paula K. , Watts Steven D.
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Disorders of ejaculation and orgasm are common, even in men with only mild erectile dysfunction (ED).

Treatment with the phosphodiesterase type‐5 inhibitor tadalafil was associated with improvements in ejaculatory and orgasmic function. Patients with residual ejaculatory or orgasmic dysfunction experience reduced sexual satisfaction. These findings need to be corroborated in further clinical trials involving men without ED.

Objectives

To compare effects of tadalafil on ejaculatory and orgasmic function in patients presenting with erectile dysfunction (ED).

To determine the effects of post‐treatment ejaculatory dysfunction (EjD) and orgasmic dysfunction (OD) on measures of sexual satisfaction.

Patients and Methods

Data from 17 placebo‐controlled 12‐week trials of tadalafil (5, 10, 20 mg) as needed in patients with ED were integrated.

EjD and OD severities were defined by patient responses to the International Index of Erectile Function, question 9 (IIEF‐Q9; ejaculation) and IIEF‐Q10 (orgasm), respectively.

Satisfaction was evaluated using the intercourse and overall satisfaction domains of the IIEF and Sexual Encounter Profile question 5.

Analyses of covariance were performed to compare mean ejaculatory function and orgasmic function, and chi‐squared tests evaluated differences in endpoint responses to IIEF‐Q9 and IIEF‐Q10.

Results

A total of 3581 randomized subjects were studied.

Treatment with tadalafil 10 or 20 mg was associated with significant increases in ejaculatory and orgasmic function (vs placebo) across all baseline ED, EjD, and OD severity strata.

In the tadalafil group, 66% of subjects with severe EjD reported improved ejaculatory function compared with 36% in the placebo group (P < 0.001).

Similarly, 66% of the tadalafil‐treated subjects (vs 35% for placebo; P < 0.001) with severe OD reported improvement.

Residual severe EjD and OD after treatment had negative impacts on sexual satisfaction.

Limitations of the analysis include its retrospective nature and the use of an instrument (IIEF) with as yet unknown performance in measuring treatment responses for EjD and OD.

Conclusions

Tadalafil treatment was associated with significant improvements in ejaculatory function, orgasmic function and sexual satisfaction.

Proportions of subjects reporting improved ejaculatory or orgasmic function were ≈ twofold higher with tadalafil than with placebo.

These findings warrant corroboration in prospective trials of patients with EjD or OD (without ED).
Extended vs standard lymph node dissection in robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy for intermediate‐ or high‐risk prostate cancer: a propensity‐score‐matching analysis
Authors: Kim Kwang Hyun , Lim Sey Kiat , Kim Ha Yan , Shin Tae‐Young , Lee Joo Yong , Choi Young Deuk , Chung Byung Ha , Hong Sung Joon , Rha Koon Ho
Published: January 2013

What's known on the subject? and What does the study add?

Although lymph node dissection (LND) is known as the most accurate method of nodal staging, the therapeutic role of LND remains undetermined. This is mainly because of the lack of randomized prospective studies and the fact that retrospective analyses often result in bias and misinterpretation.

To overcome the limitation of retrospective analysis, we matched preoperative variables using propensity scores and compared the outcomes between patients treated with robot‐assisted eLND and sLND. In the matched cohort, robot‐asssited eLND achieved an increased detection rate of lymph node metastases; however, the therapeutic benefit was not statistically significant between the two groups on short‐term follow‐up.

Objective

To compare the pathological and biochemical outcomes between extended lymph node dissection (eLND) and standard lymph node dissection (sLND) in patients undergoing robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy for intermediate‐ or high‐risk prostate cancer.

Patients and Methods

A total of 905 patients underwent robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy and lymph node dissection (LND) by a single surgeon between June 2006 and January 2011. Of these, 170 patients who underwent robot‐assisted eLND and 294 patients who underwent robot‐assisted sLND for intermediate‐ or high‐risk prostate cancer were included in the study.

Propensity‐score matching was performed using the preoperative variables which included age, body mass index, prostate‐specific antigen, clinical stage, biopsy Gleason score 1 and 2, total number of biopsied cores, number of positive cores and prostate volumes.

Pathological and biochemical outcomes were assessed according to the extent of LND.

Results

The median (range) follow‐up period was 36 (12–77) months and the median number of lymph nodes removed was 21 and 12 in the eLND and sLND groups, respectively.

Propensity‐score matching resulted in 141 patients in each group. Although patients who underwent eLND had a higher clinical stage, biopsy Gleason score and number of positive cores than those treated with sLND in the entire cohort, there were no preoperative between‐group differences in the matched cohort.

In the matched cohort, lymph node metastases were detected at a significantly higher rate in the eLND than in the sLND group (12.1 vs. 5.0%, P = 0.033).

In the matched cohort, the 3‐year biochemical recurrence‐free survival rates were 77.8 and 73.5% in the eLND and sLND groups, respectively, which was not significant (hazard ratio 0.85, P = 0.497).

Conclusion

Robot‐assisted eLND achieved an increased lymph node yield and higher detection rate of lymph node metastases; however, robotic eLND did not alter biochemical outcomes in a short‐term follow‐up.
Multi‐scale patterns of forest structure and species composition in relation to climate in northeast China
Authors: Fang Jingyun , Wang Xiangping , Liu Yining , Tang Zhiyao , White Peter S. , Sanders Nathan J.
Published: January 2013

Though a number of studies have focused on the factors that shape the structure and dynamics of temperate forests, little is known about whether these factors vary with spatial scale. In this study we investigated compositional and structural patterns of forests across three spatial scales (plot, local assemblages and regions) in northeast China and asked whether climatic variables shape these patterns. Using a systematic sampling design, we measured diameter at breast height (DBH) and height of trees, and recorded the abundances, percent of cover and heights of shrubs and herbs in 141 plots from 10 nature reserves. We found that summer temperature accounted for most of the variation in species composition, both within and among forest types. DBH, tree height and total basal area all increased significantly with summer temperature while stem density decreased. The DBH frequency distribution depended strongly on temperature (especially winter temperature) and varied among spatial scales, and it tended to be more left‐skewed as temperature increased. Taking together, our results suggest that a warming climate could lead to an increase in tree growth and the changes in size structure of temperate forests in northeast China. In particular, the proportion of large trees will in all likelihood increase while that of smaller trees will decrease. Shifts in forest structure in a warmed world will undoubtedly influence forest management practices, ecosystem dynamics, and species conservation.
Mechanochemical and Low‐Temperature Synthesis of Nanocrystalline Fluorohydroxyapatite/Fluorapatite
Authors: Jokanović Vukoman , Čolović Božana , Jović Nataša , Babić‐Stojić Branka , Jokanović Bojan
Published: January 2013

Low‐temperature synthesis of fluorapatite/fluorohydroxyapatite with precursor mixture previously mechanochemically treated is described in this article. Ethylene vinylacetate/versatate copolymer as a surface active substance was mechanically treated to obtain a core‐shell system with strongly controlled grain size. Despite usual behavior of mechanically activated systems, only an amorphous phase formed from precursor ions present in the mixture composed of β‐Ca2P2O7, CaCO3, CaF2, and unreacted Ca(OH)2 was obtained during milling for 5 min to 8 h. The mixture contained depots of labile F− ions conserved in micelles cages, which are useful for teeth protection from carries. For transformation of these amorphous phases into fluorapatite, an additional low thermal treatment was necessary. The mechanism of the precursor mixture transformation into fluorapatite during milling and thermal treatment was investigated using FTIR spectroscopy and X‐ray diffraction. The morphology and size distribution of the obtained powders was studied using SEM and TEM.
Optic disc progression and rates of visual field change in treated glaucoma
Authors: De Moraes Carlos G. , Liebmann Jeffrey M. , Park Sung C. , Teng Christopher C. , Nemiroff Julia , Tello Celso , Ritch Robert
Published: January 2013

Purpose:  To investigate the relationship between optic disc progression and rates of visual field (VF) change in patients with treated glaucoma.

Methods:  Glaucoma patients with repeatable VF loss, ≥8 SITA‐Standard 24‐2 VF tests and good quality optic disc stereophotographs evaluated over a 10‐year period were included. Optic disc photographs were reviewed for signs of glaucoma progression (neuroretinal rim change, widening of retinal nerve fibre layer defect, disc haemorrhage and enlargement of beta‐zone parapapillary atrophy) by two glaucoma specialists masked to their temporal sequence. Disagreements were adjudicated by a third grader. VF progression was evaluated using automated pointwise linear regression (PLR) and defined as at least two adjacent test points progressing >1.0 dB/year at p < 0.01. VF progression outcomes were compared with photograph review results.

Results:  Three‐hundred and eighty nine eyes (389 patients; mean age 64.9 ± 13.0 years; mean baseline MD, −7.1 ± 5.1 dB) were included. Most patients had primary open angle glaucoma (54%). Eighty‐two eyes (21%) had confirmed optic disc progression and 115 eyes (29%) met the VF PLR criteria. Eyes with documented optic disc progression had more rapid rates of VF change (−0.66 ± 0.7 versus −0.36 ± 0.7 dB/year, p < 0.01) and met the VF PLR endpoint more often (univariate OR = 1.85, p = 0.02; multivariate OR = 1.78, p = 0.03) than eyes without optic disc progression. There was moderate spatial consistency between the location of the optic disc progression and the hemifield with more rapid progression (81%, kappa = 0.40).

Conclusions:  Treated glaucomatous eyes with documented optic disc progression are at increased risk of diminished visual function over time and may require more aggressive therapy to prevent future vision loss. Among the indicators of structural progression, disc haemorrhage was the single most significant predictor for VF deterioration.
Low Temperature Synthesis of Needle‐like α‐FeOOH and Their Conversion into α‐Fe2O3 Nanorods for Humidity Sensing Application
Authors: Adhyapak Parag V. , Mulik Uttam P. , Amalnerkar Dinesh P. , Mulla Imtiaz S.
Published: January 2013

In this study, we report template and surfactant‐free, low temperature (70°C) synthesis of needle‐like α‐FeOOH and its conversion at 400°C into α‐Fe2O3 nanorods using Fe(+2) and Fe(+3) chlorides and urea as a hydrolysis‐controlling agent. The isolated needle‐like α‐FeOOH indicates asparagus‐type growth pattern having length ca. 600 nm with 80 nm diameter at base and apex diameter of around 10 nm. The sample on heating (α‐Fe2O3) shows nanorod‐like morphology. The samples were characterized using various physicochemical characterization techniques such as XRD, Raman spectroscopy, UV‐Vis spectroscopy, particle size distribution analysis, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FE‐SEM), and humidity sensing performance. The humidity sensing behavior of both α‐FeOOH and α‐Fe2O3 was studied. The α‐FeOOH shows quicker (10 s) and higher response toward change in humidity from 20%RH to 90%RH as compared with α‐Fe2O3 (60 s). Their typical morphology and crystalline structure plays an important role in humidity sensing behavior.
The complex effects of the slow‐releasing hydrogen sulfide donor GYY4137 in a model of acute joint inflammation and in human cartilage cells
Authors: Li Ling , Fox Bridget , Keeble Julie , Salto‐Tellez Manuel , Winyard Paul G. , Wood Mark E. , Moore Philip K. , Whiteman Matthew
Published: January 2013

The role of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in inflammation remains unclear with both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory actions of this gas described. We have now assessed the effect of GYY4137 (a slow‐releasing H2S donor) on lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐evoked release of inflammatory mediators from human synoviocytes (HFLS) and articular chondrocytes (HAC) in vitro. We have also examined the effect of GYY4137 in a complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA) model of acute joint inflammation in the mouse. GYY4137 (0.1–0.5 mM) decreased LPS‐induced production of nitrite (NO2−), PGE2, TNF‐α and IL‐6 from HFLS and HAC, reduced the levels and catalytic activity of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase‐2 (COX‐2) and reduced LPS‐induced NF‐κB activation in vitro. Using recombinant human enzymes, GYY4137 inhibited the activity of COX‐2, iNOS and TNF‐α converting enzyme (TACE). In the CFA‐treated mouse, GYY4137 (50 mg/kg, i.p.) injected 1 hr prior to CFA increased knee joint swelling while an anti‐inflammatory effect, as demonstrated by reduced synovial fluid myeloperoxidase (MPO) and N‐acetyl‐β‐D‐glucosaminidase (NAG) activity and decreased TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐8 concentration, was apparent when GYY4137 was injected 6 hrs after CFA. GYY4137 was also anti‐inflammatory when given 18 hrs after CFA. Thus, although GYY4137 consistently reduced the generation of pro‐inflammatory mediators from human joint cells in vitro, its effect on acute joint inflammation in vivo depended on the timing of administration.
The Mitochondrial Genome and a 60‐kb Nuclear DNA Segment from Naegleria fowleri, the Causative Agent of Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis
Authors: Herman Emily K. , Greninger Alexander L. , Visvesvara Govinda S. , Marciano‐Cabral Francine , Dacks Joel B. , Chiu Charles Y.
Published: January 2013

Naegleria fowleri is a unicellular eukaryote causing primary amoebic meningoencephalitis, a neuropathic disease killing 99% of those infected, usually within 7–14 days. Naegleria fowleri is found globally in regions including the US and Australia. The genome of the related nonpathogenic species Naegleria gruberi has been sequenced, but the genetic basis for N. fowleri pathogenicity is unclear. To generate such insight, we sequenced and assembled the mitochondrial genome and a 60‐kb segment of nuclear genome from N. fowleri. The mitochondrial genome is highly similar to its counterpart in N. gruberi in gene complement and organization, while distinct lack of synteny is observed for the nuclear segments. Even in this short (60‐kb) segment, we identified examples of potential factors for pathogenesis, including ten novel N. fowleri‐specific genes. We also identified a homolog of cathepsin B; proteases proposed to be involved in the pathogenesis of diverse eukaryotic pathogens, including N. fowleri. Finally, we demonstrate a likely case of horizontal gene transfer between N. fowleri and two unrelated amoebae, one of which causes granulomatous amoebic encephalitis. This initial look into the N. fowleri nuclear genome has revealed several examples of potential pathogenesis factors, improving our understanding of a neglected pathogen of increasing global importance.
Effect of parental mate choice and semi‐natural early rearing environment on the growth performance and seawater tolerance of Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha
Authors: Madison B. N. , Heath J. W. , Heath D. D. , Bernier N. J.
Published: January 2013

To assess whether parental mate choice and early rearing in a semi‐natural spawning channel may benefit the culture of Chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha, 90 day growth trials were conducted using hatchery O. tshawytscha (hatchery), mate choice O. tshawytscha (i.e. the offspring of parents allowed to choose their own mate) that spent 6 months in a spawning channel prior to hatchery rearing (channel) and mate choice O. tshawytscha transferred to the hatchery as fertilized eggs (transfer). During the growth trials, all O. tshawytscha stocks were reared separately or in either mixed channel and hatchery or transfer and hatchery groups for comparison of performance to traditional practices. After 60 days in fresh water, all O. tshawytscha were transferred to seawater for an additional 30 days. Reared separately, all stocks grew c. 4·5 fold over 90 days but specific growth rate (G) and food conversion efficiency were higher in fresh water than after seawater transfer on day 60. In contrast, hatchery O. tshawytscha from mixed hatchery and channel and hatchery and transfer growth trials had a larger mass and length gain than their counterparts on day 60, but reduced G in seawater. In general, plasma levels of growth hormone, insulin‐like growth factor I and cortisol did not differ among any O. tshawytscha groups in either the separate or mixed growth trials. Despite some differences in gill Na+,K+‐ATPase activity, all O. tshawytscha had a high degree of seawater tolerance and experienced virtually no perturbation in plasma chloride following seawater transfer. Overall, all O. tshawytscha exhibited similar growth and seawater performance under traditional hatchery conditions and any benefit derived from either parental mate choice or semi‐natural early rearing environment was only observed in the presence of mutual competition with hatchery O. tshawytscha.
A comparison of the signalling properties of two tyramine receptors from Drosophila
Authors: Bayliss Asha , Roselli Giuliana , Evans Peter D.
Published: January 2013

In invertebrates, the phenolamines, tyramine and octopamine, mediate many functional roles usually associated with the catecholamines, noradrenaline and adrenaline, in vertebrates. The α‐ and β‐adrenergic classes of insect octopamine receptor are better activated by octopamine than tyramine. Similarly, the Tyramine 1 subgroup of receptors (or Octopamine/Tyramine receptors) are better activated by tyramine than octopamine. However, recently, a new Tyramine 2 subgroup of receptors was identified, which appears to be activated highly preferentially by tyramine. We examined immunocytochemically the ability of CG7431, the founding member of this subgroup from Drosophila melanogaster, to be internalized in transfected Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells by different agonists. It was only internalized after activation by tyramine. Conversely, the structurally related receptor, CG16766, was internalized by a number of biogenic amines, including octopamine, dopamine, noradrenaline, adrenaline, which also were able to elevate cyclic AMP levels. Studies with synthetic agonists and antagonists confirm that CG16766 has a different pharmacological profile to that of CG7431. Species orthologues of CG16766 were only found in Drosophila species, whereas orthologues of CG7431 could be identified in the genomes of a number of insect species. We propose that CG16766 represents a new group of tyramine receptors, which we have designated the Tyramine 3 receptors.
The difficult relationship between occlusal interferences and temporomandibular disorder – insights from animal and human experimental studies
Authors: Xie Q. , Li X. , Xu X.
Published: January 2013

The aetiology of temporomandibular disorder (TMD) is multifactorial, and numerous studies have addressed that occlusion may be of great importance. However, whether occlusion plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of TMD remains controversial. Study designs utilising animal models have been used to study the effects of artificial occlusal alterations. Experimental traumatic occlusion affects blood flow in the temporomandibular joint and results in changes in the condylar cartilage, and artificial occlusal interference induces masticatory muscle nociceptive responses that are associated with peripheral sensitisation and lead to central sensitisation, which maintains masticatory muscle hyperalgesia. The possibility that occlusal interference results in TMD has been investigated in humans using a double‐blind randomised design. Subjects without a history of TMD show fairly good adaptation to interferences. In contrast, subjects with a history of TMD develop a significant increase in clinical signs and self‐report stronger symptoms (occlusal discomfort and chewing difficulties) in response to interferences. Meanwhile, psychological factors appear meaningful for symptomatic responses to artificial interferences in subjects with a history of TMD. Thus, individual differences in vulnerability to occlusal interferences do exist. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to using human and animal occlusal interference models, these approaches are indispensable for discovering the role of occlusion in TMD pathogenesis.
The Long and Tortuous History of the Discovery of Testosterone and Its Clinical Application
Authors: Morales Alvaro
Published: January 2013

Introduction

The testis importance in homeostasis was recognized for millennia, but a consistent interest in exploring their endocrine function only goes back to about a century.

Aim

The aim of this study is to provide a succinct perspective of the events leading to the discovery of testosterone, the mind-boggling early attempts at therapy and today's situation.

Method

The literature was reviewed with searches in OvidSP Medline, PubMed, and Google Scholar under the headings of testosterone/androgens history. Due to the explosion of reports between the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a manual review of the collection of the period's journals at the university's library was performed. Pertinent books were consulted for specific biographical details.

Results

There is a robust body of literature dealing with testicular function for the period starting in the late 1800s. It is illustrative to learn the painful efforts of many well-intentioned and honest scientists with more conviction and determination than knowledge. Among them, unfortunately, a number of charlatans and profiteers tainted the concept of hypogonadism and its treatment with repercussions lasting until this day. The discovery and synthesis of testosterone represent the effort of brilliant minds (two Nobel Prizes) in various countries and frequently working for the pharmaceutical industry. Shortly after testosterone became available, controversy arose about its application, use, abuse, and potential detrimental effects. Over the decades, the hullabaloo about hypogonadism and its treatment has focused on a variety of issues ranging from absurd efficacy claims to solid studies and from doubts of its existence to convincing proof of a detrimental age-associated deficit in testosterone production.

Conclusions

The history of testosterone discovery, synthesis, and introduction into the therapeutic armamentarium is an outstanding example of human curiosity, ingenuity, greed, and skepticism. Despite the vast progress in the field, many issues remain unresolved, but thoughtful science augurs well for its future.
Micro‐situational Foundations of Social Structure: An Interactionist Exploration of Affective Sanctioning
Authors: Rafanell Irene
Published: January 2013

Micro‐interaction dynamics of affective sanctioning have been widely acknowledged but rarely related to the emergence of social phenomena. This paper aims to highlight the constitutive force of interaction activity by critically analysing two sociological models, Bourdieu's theory of practice and Barnes's Performative Theory of Social Institutions (PTSI). Such a comparison allows me to reveal two differing models of social phenomena currently operating in sociological debates: an extrinsic structuralist model which tacitly conveys macro‐structural phenomena as prior and determinant of individuals and their micro‐interactions, and an intrinsic structuralism model which prioritizes individuals’ interactions and conceives them as constituting both the individual and the structural. I argue that the latter's emphasis on the dynamics of mutual susceptibility to affective sanctioning as underpinning consensus among inherently heterogeneous individuals provides a platform to further support the tenets of Interactionism and helps to expose Bourdieu's over‐deterministic methodological individualism prevalent in most sociological theory. I conclude that by conceiving emotions as causal, rather than the effect of social forces, sociological theory can provide an explanation of both individual practices and systemic phenomena which resolves macro‐structural tensions. In doing so, I suggest an ontological understanding of the “social” which supports the Interactionist central tenet that the local takes priority over wider structural phenomena.
Evidence for silicate dissolution on Mars from the Nakhla meteorite
Authors: Lee M. R. , Tomkinson T. , Mark D. F. , Stuart F. M. , Smith C. L.
Published: January 2013

Veins containing carbonates, hydrous silicates, and sulfates that occur within and between grains of augite and olivine in the Nakhla meteorite are good evidence for the former presence of liquid water in the Martian crust. Aqueous solutions gained access to grain interiors via narrow fractures, and those fractures within olivine whose walls were oriented close to (001) were preferentially widened by etching along [001]. This orientation selective dissolution may have been due to the presence within olivine of shock‐formed [001](100) and [001]{110} screw dislocations. The duration of etching is likely to have been brief, possibly less than a year, and the solutions responsible were sufficiently cool and reducing that laihunite did not form and Fe liberated from the olivine was not immediately oxidized. The pores within olivine were mineralized in sequence by siderite, nanocrystalline smectite, a Fe‐Mg phyllosilicate, and then gypsum, whereas only the smectite occurs within augite. The nanocrystalline smectite was deposited as submicrometer thick layers on etched vein walls, and solution compositions varied substantially between and sometimes during precipitation of each layer. Together with microcrystalline gypsum the Fe‐Mg phyllosilicate crystallized as water briefly returned to some of the veins following desiccation fracturing of the smectite. These results show that etching of olivine enhanced the porosity and permeability of the nakhlite parent rock and that dissolution and secondary mineralization took place within the same near‐static aqueous system.
UDP‐glucosyltransferase UGT84A2/BRT1 is required for Arabidopsis nonhost resistance to the Asian soybean rust pathogen Phakopsora pachyrhizi
Authors: Langenbach Caspar , Campe Ruth , Schaffrath Ulrich , Goellner Katharina , Conrath Uwe
Published: January 2013

Nonhost resistance (NHR) of plants to fungal pathogens comprises different defense layers. Epidermal penetration resistance of Arabidopsis to Phakopsora pachyrhizi requires functional PEN1, PEN2 and PEN3 genes, whereas post‐invasion resistance in the mesophyll depends on the combined functionality of PEN2, PAD4 and SAG101. Other genetic components of Arabidopsis post‐invasion mesophyll resistance remain elusive.

We performed comparative transcriptional profiling of wild‐type, pen2 and pen2 pad4 sag101 mutants after inoculation with P. pachyrhizi to identify a novel trait for mesophyll NHR. Quantitative reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) analysis and microscopic analysis confirmed the essential role of the candidate gene in mesophyll NHR.

UDP‐glucosyltransferase UGT84A2/bright trichomes 1 (BRT1) is a novel component of Arabidopsis mesophyll NHR to P. pachyrhizi. BRT1 is a putative cytoplasmic enzyme in phenylpropanoid metabolism. BRT1 is specifically induced in pen2 with post‐invasion resistance to P. pachyrhizi. Silencing or mutation of BRT1 increased haustoria formation in pen2 mesophyll. Yet, the brt1 mutation did not affect NHR to P. pachyrhizi in wild‐type plants.

We assign a novel function to BRT1, which is important for post‐invasion NHR of Arabidopsis to P. pachyrhizi. BRT1 might serve to confer durable resistance against P. pachyrhizi to soybean.
The genetics of human obesity
Authors: Xia Qianghua , Grant Struan F.A.
Published: January 2013

It has long been known that there is a genetic component to obesity, and that characterizing this underlying factor would likely offer the possibility of better intervention in the future. Monogenic obesity has proved to be relatively straightforward, with a combination of linkage analysis and mouse models facilitating the identification of multiple genes. In contrast, genome‐wide association studies have successfully revealed a variety of genetic loci associated with the more common form of obesity, allowing for very strong consensus on the underlying genetic architecture of the phenotype for the first time. Although a number of significant findings have been made, it appears that very little of the apparent heritability of body mass index has actually been explained to date. New approaches for data analyses and advances in technology will be required to uncover the elusive missing heritability, and to aid in the identification of the key causative genetic underpinnings of obesity.
Abnormal Heart Rate Recovery in Stable Heart Failure Patients
Authors: YILMAZ AHMET , ERDEM ALIM , KUCUKDURMAZ ZEKERIYA , KARAPINAR HEKIM , GUL IBRAHIM , SARIKAYA SAVAS , DIZMAN RAFET
Published: January 2013

Background

Heart rate decrease after exercise, that is associated with reactivation of parasympathetic system, is important, as it is also associated with mortality. Previous studies have shown that this is an independent mortality predictor in patients having no coronary artery disease and having normal left ventricular function. In our study, we aimed to study heart rate recovery (HRR) after exercise in patients having impaired left ventricular function.

Methods

One hundred and two consecutive patients (68 males, 34 females) requested to perform an exercise stress test were included in our study. Patients were divided into two groups as those having a normal heart rate reserve (Group1, n = 72) and those having an abnormal heart rate reserve (Group2, n = 30).

Results

In Group1 and Group2, resting heart rate averages were found to be 83.61 ± 18.01/min and 85.10 ± 13.40/min, respectively (P > 0.05), and maximum heart rates during exercise were 141.42 ± 19.70/min and 121.17 ± 19.01/min while those in Group1 had statistically significantly higher heart rates (P < 0.001). A statistically significant positive association was found in the correlation test carried out between the maximum heart rate during the treadmill exercise test and ejection fraction (EF) value (r = 0.201; P < 0.05). Metabolic equivalents of task values obtained during the treadmill exercise test in Group1 and Group2 were 9.48 ± 2.28 and 8.36 ± 2.50, respectively, and the difference between the said values was statistically significant (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

We believe that the association between low EF and abnormal HRR is worth studying and randomized large‐scale studies are needed to determine mortality risk.
Evolutionary patterns–tested with cladistics–and processes in relation to palaeoenvironments of the Upper Barremian genus Gassendiceras (Ammonitina, Lower Cretaceous)
Authors: BERT DIDIER , BERSAC STÉPHANE
Published: January 2013

Abstract:  Phylogenetic reconstruction of the Upper Barremian ammonite genus Gassendiceras (Gassendiceratinae) was performed using a cladistic analysis incorporating continuous data. Some morphological features were found to vary identically among all the analysed species and therefore carry no phylogenetic information (= symplesiomorphic). The single obtained cladogram allows interpreting the evolution of the Gassendiceras as an anagenetic succession of eight species, in stratigraphic order of appearance, Gassendiceras multicostatum, G. alpinum, G. hoheneggeri, G. rebouleti, G. bosellii, G. quelquejeui, G. coulletae and G. enayi. The clade Pseudoshasticrioceras/Imerites is derived from G. enayi, so the genus Gassendiceras appears to be paraphyletic. But here, we accept this fact as the best evolutive classification. The evolution over time of Gassendiceras is modulated by some processes, which could have constrained the inferred phylogenetic pattern with the drift of the global variability towards the most gracile forms over time. It is tempting to interpret this evolution as a constant selection over time of the Gassendiceras modulated by environmental control due to eustatic variation across a transgressive sequence. Thus, the most peramorphic (gracile) individuals seemed favoured at the expense of those most robust (paedomorphic).
Association between putative functional variants in the PSMB9 gene and risk of melanoma – re‐analysis of published melanoma genome‐wide association studies
Authors: Qian Ji , Liu Hongliang , Wei Sheng , Liu Zhensheng , Li Yangkai , Wang Li‐E , Chen Wei V. , Amos Christopher I. , Lee Jeffrey E. ,   GenoMEL investigators, Iles Mark M. , Law Matthew H. ,   Q‐MEGA AMFS investigators, Cust Anne E. , Barrett Jennifer H. , Montgomery Grant W. , Taylor John , Bishop Julia A. Newton , MacGregor Stuart , Bishop D. Timothy , Mann Graham J. , Hayward Nicholas K. , Wei Qingyi
Published: January 2013

To mine possibly hidden causal single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of melanoma, we investigated the association of SNPs in 76 M/G1 transition genes with melanoma risk using our published genome‐wide association study (GWAS) data set with 1804 melanoma cases and 1026 cancer‐free controls. We found multiple SNPs with P < 0.01 and performed validation studies for 18 putative functional SNPs in PSMB9 in two other GWAS data sets. Two SNPs (rs1351383 and rs2127675) were associated with melanoma risk in the GenoMEL data set (P = 0.013 and 0.004, respectively), but failed in validation using the Australian data set. Genotype–phenotype analysis revealed these two SNPs were significantly correlated with mRNA expression level of PSMB9. Further experiments revealed that SNP rs2071480, which is in high LD with rs1351383 and rs2127675, may have a weak effect on the promoter activity of PSMB9. Taken together, our data suggested that functional variants in PSMB9 may contribute to melanoma susceptibility.
Theoretical Study of Firefly Luciferin pKa Values—Relative Absorption Intensity in Aqueous Solutions
Authors: Hiyama Miyabi , Akiyama Hidefumi , Yamada Kenta , Koga Nobuaki
Published: January 2013

Ground‐state vibrational analyses of firefly luciferin and its conjugate acids and bases are performed. The Gibbs free energies obtained from these analyses are used to estimate pKa values for phenolic hydroxy and carboxy groups and the N–H+ bond in the N‐protonated thiazoline or benzothiazole ring of firefly luciferin. The theoretical pKa values are corrected using the experimental values. The concentrations of these chemical species in solutions with different pH values are estimated from their corrected pKa values, and the pH dependence of their relative absorption intensities is elucidated. With the results obtained we assign the experimental spectra unequivocally. Especially, the small peak near 400 nm at pH 1–2 in experimental absorption spectra is clarified to be due to the excitation of carboxylate anion with N‐protonated thiazoline ring of firefly luciferin. Our results show that the pKa values of chemical species, which are contained in the aqueous solutions, are effective to assign experimental absorption spectra.
Fluorescence Spectroscopy of the Retina from Scrapie‐Infected Mice
Authors: Bose Sayantan , Schönenbrücher Holger , Richt Jürgen A. , Casey Thomas A. , Rasmussen Mark A. , Kehrli Marcus E. , Petrich Jacob W.
Published: January 2013

Recently, we have proposed that the fluorescence spectra of sheep retina can be well correlated with the presence or absence of scrapie. Scrapie is the most widespread TSE (transmissible spongiform encephalopathy) affecting sheep and goats worldwide. Mice eyes have been previously reported as a model system to study age‐related accumulation of lipofuscin, which has been investigated by monitoring the increasing fluorescence with age covering its entire life span. The current work aims at developing mice retina as a convenient model system to diagnose scrapie and other fatal TSE diseases in animals such as sheep and cows. The objective of the research reported here was to determine whether the spectral features are conserved between two different species namely mice and sheep, and whether an appropriate small animal model system could be identified for diagnosis of scrapie based on the fluorescence intensity in retina. The results were consistent with the previous reports on fluorescence studies of healthy and scrapie‐infected retina of sheep. The fluorescence from the retinas of scrapie‐infected sheep was significantly more intense and showed more heterogeneity than that from the retinas of uninfected mice. Although the structural characteristics of fluorescence spectra of scrapie‐infected sheep and mice eyes are slightly different, more importantly, murine retinas reflect the enhancement of fluorescence intensity upon infecting the mice with scrapie, which is consistent with the observations in sheep eyes.
Variability of Memory B cell Markers in a Cohort of Common Variable Immune Deficiency Patients over 6 months
Authors: Koopmans W. , Woon S.‐T. , Zeng I. S. L. , Jordan A. , Brothers S. , Browett P. , Ameratunga R.
Published: January 2013

Common Variable Immunodeficiency Disorder (CVID) is a complex disorder that predisposes patients to recurrent and severe infections. Immunophenotypic classification schemes were developed to categorize patients with CVID into phenotypic and prognostic groups based on different memory B cell subsets. Whether the B cell subset analysis is stable over time has not been investigated. B cell phenotyping in patients with CVID (n = 15) and sex‐ and age‐matched controls (n = 26) were carried out according to the three B cell classifications. Patients with CVID were evaluated monthly over 6 months. Controls were assessed once during the study. We scored how often each patient was assigned to the same group within each classification. The Freiburg classification assigned patients to the same group at a rate of 73% and the Paris classification at 88%. The EUROclass classification of smB− versus smB+ was at 90%. The two subclassifications [(smB‐21low or smB‐21norm) and transitional B] were at 87% and 97%, respectively. The level of naïve B cells measured in all patients with CVID during the 6‐month evaluation was the most stable B cell subset. We conclude that all classifications systems show considerable variability, but the EUROclass classification was the most reliable scheme for our 15 CVID and 26 healthy cohorts. Our results indicate that phenotypic classifications within CVID will be difficult while there is variability of commonly used assays.