bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Justice Sensitivity and Forgiveness in Close Interpersonal Relationships: The Mediating Role of Mistrustful, Legitimizing, and Pro‐Relationship Cognitions
Authors: Gerlach Tanja M. , Allemand Mathias , Agroskin Dmitrij , Denissen Jaap J. A.
Published: January 2012

The purpose of the present investigation was to explore and better understand the relationship between justice sensitivity from a victim's perspective (JS‐victim) and interpersonal forgiveness. In particular, we aimed to identify the cognitive mechanisms mediating this relationship and test the moderating influence of post‐transgression perpetrator behavior. We used data from a questionnaire study employing a Swiss community sample (N = 450) and 2 scenario‐based studies employing German online samples, in the context of romantic (N = 242) and friendship relationships (N = 974). We consistently found JS‐victim to be negatively related to dispositional (Study 1) and situational forgiveness (Studies 2 and 3). Study 2 demonstrated the relationship between JS‐victim and reduced forgiveness to be partly mediated by mistrustful interpretations of the partner's post‐transgression behavior. In Study 3, cognitions legitimizing one's own antisocial reactions and a lack of pro‐relationship cognitions were identified as further mediators. These variables mediated the negative effect of JS‐victim on forgiveness largely independent of whether the friend perpetrator displayed reconciliatory behavior or not. Findings suggest that the cognitive mechanisms mediating victim‐sensitive individuals' unforgiveness could barely be neutralized. Future research should investigate their malleability in light of qualitatively different perpetrator behaviors as well as their broader relational implications.
How Are Personality Judgments Made? A Cognitive Model of Reference Group Effects, Personality Scale Responses, and Behavioral Reactions
Authors: Wood Alex M. , Brown Gordon D. A. , Maltby John , Watkinson Pat
Published: January 2012

This article suggests that personality judgments are wholly relative, being the outcome of a comparison of a given individual to a reference group of others. The underlying comparison processes are the same as those used to judge psychophysical stimuli (as outlined by range frequency theory and decision by sampling accounts). Five experimental studies show that the same person's personality is rated differently depending on how his or her behavior (a) ranks within a reference group and (b) falls within the overall range of behavior shown by other reference group members. Results were invariant across stimulus type and response options (7‐point Likert scale, 990‐point allocation task, or dichotomous choice). Simulated occupational scenarios led participants to give different‐sized bonuses and employ different people as a function of context. Future research should note that personality judgments (as in self‐report personality scales) only represent perceived standing relative to others or alternatively should measure personality through behavior or biological reactivity. Personality judgments cannot be used to compare different populations when the population participants have different reference groups (as in cross‐cultural research).
Semiparametric Tests for Sufficient Cause Interaction
Authors: Vansteelandt Stijn , VanderWeele Tyler J. , Robins James M.
Published: January 2012

A sufficient cause interaction between two exposures signals the presence of individuals for whom the outcome would occur only under certain values of the two exposures. When the outcome is dichotomous and all exposures are categorical, then, under certain no confounding assumptions, empirical conditions for sufficient cause interactions can be constructed on the basis of the sign of linear contrasts of conditional outcome probabilities between differently exposed subgroups, given confounders. It is argued that logistic regression models are unsatisfactory for evaluating such contrasts, and that Bernoulli regression models with linear link are prone to misspecification. We therefore develop semiparametric tests for sufficient cause interactions under models which postulate probability contrasts in terms of a finite dimensional parameter, but which are otherwise unspecified. Estimation is often not feasible in these models because it would require non-parametric estimation of auxiliary conditional expectations given high dimensional variables. We therefore develop ‘multiply robust tests’ under a union model which assumes that at least one of several working submodels holds. In the special case of a randomized experiment or a family-based genetic study in which the joint exposure distribution is known by design or Mendelian inheritance, the procedure leads to asymptotically distribution-free tests of the null hypothesis of no sufficient cause interaction.
Combining Outputs from the North American Regional Climate Change Assessment Program by Using A Bayesian Hierarchical Model
Authors: Kang Emily L. , Cressie Noel , Sain Stephan R.
Published: January 2012

We investigate the 20-year-average boreal winter temperatures generated by an ensemble of six regional climate models (RCMs) in phase I of the North American Regional Climate Change Assessment Program. We use the long-run average (20-year integration) to smooth out variability and to capture the climate properties from the RCM outputs. We find that, although the RCMs capture the large-scale climate variation from coast to coast and from south to north similarly, their outputs can differ substantially in some regions. We propose a Bayesian hierarchical model to synthesize information from the ensemble of RCMs, and we construct a consensus climate signal with each RCM contributing to the consensus according to its own variability parameter. The Bayesian methodology enables us to make posterior inference on all the unknowns, including the large-scale fixed effects and the small-scale random effects in the consensus climate signal and in each RCM. The joint distributions of the consensus climate and the outputs from the RCMs are also investigated through posterior means, posterior variances and posterior spatial quantiles. We use a spatial random-effects model in the Bayesian hierarchical model and, consequently, we can deal with the large data sets of fine resolution outputs from all the RCMs. Additionally, our model allows a flexible spatial covariance structure without assuming stationarity or isotropy.
‘It’s Intense, to an Extent’: A Qualitative Study of the Emotional Challenges Faced by Staff Working on a Treatment Programme for Intellectually Disabled Sex Offenders
Authors: Sandhu Daljit K. , Rose John , Rostill‐Brookes Helen J. , Thrift Su
Published: January 2012

Background  This study explores the emotional challenges faced by staff working on a sex offender treatment programme for people with an intellectual disability.

Methods  Semi‐structured interviews were carried out with eight participants working on a treatment programme for sex offenders with an intellectual disability. Interviews were analysed using interpretative phenomenological analysis.

Results  Staff experienced a range of negative emotions that they dealt with in a variety of ways including through the use of humour and various emotional defences. Empathy was a challenging and complex issue with individuals taking a variety of positions.

Conclusion  Staff awareness and understanding of the role of emotions in relation to their own well‐being and in relation to therapeutic processes varied. Emotional intelligence was associated with greater therapeutic understanding. Recommendations are made in relation to personal and professional characteristics and need for clinical supervision to support staff well‐being and the development of therapeutic competence and effectiveness.
Multi‐sensory Storytelling for Persons with Profound Intellectual and Multiple Disabilities: An Analysis of the Development, Content and Application in Practice
Authors: ten Brug Annet , van der Putten Annette , Penne Anneleen , Maes Bea , Vlaskamp Carla
Published: January 2012

Background  Multi‐sensory storytelling (MSST) books are individualized stories, which involve sensory stimulation in addition to verbal text. Despite the frequent use of MSST in practice, little research is conducted into its structure, content and effectiveness. This study aims at the analysis of the development, content and application in practice of the MSST books in persons with profound intellectual and multiple disabilities (PIMD).

Materials and Methods  Forty‐nine persons with PIMD and their direct support person participated. We analysed if the books are constructed and read according to guidelines. Content and used stimuli were related to age.

Results  Of the books 84% were constructed according to guidelines. In just 1.3% of the sessions, the story was read as intended. Regarding content, 67.4% of the stories focused on daily life excursions. Tactile stimuli were used most. Age related to stimuli choice, but not to content.

Conclusions  Although most books were properly constructed, guidelines were barely followed during reading which may negatively influence the effectiveness.
Normative, authentic, and altruistic fruit and vegetable consumption as weblog discourses
Authors: Simunaniemi Anna‐Mari , Sandberg Helena , Andersson Agneta , Nydahl Margaretha
Published: January 2012

The Internet is a growing information and communication channel for health‐ and diet‐related issues. Keeping updated on the fruit‐ and vegetable‐related (F&V) discourses among laypeople is important for health communicators in order to promote F&V consumption through tailored health messages. The aim of the present study was to identify F&V‐related discourses in weblogs that were maintained, obviously, to influence diet. A theoretically chosen sample of weblogs were analysed applying critical discourse analysis. The analysis showed three partly overlapping F&V‐related discourses: (1) normative consumption with a focus on single nutrients and physiological mechanisms; (2) authentic consumption with a desire for naturalness; and (3) altruistic consumption where ethical responsibilities are enhanced. Bloggers have clear perceptions on ideal F&V consumption, but it is a challenge for the reader to make a synthesis of the discourses presented. Filtering contradictory instructions requires health literacy, which may need more support from dietetic professionals.
Serine hydroxymethyltransferase 1 and 2: gene sequence variation and functional genomic characterization
Authors: Hebbring Scott J. , Chai Yubo , Ji Yuan , Abo Ryan P. , Jenkins Gregory D. , Fridley Brooke , Zhang Jianping , Eckloff Bruce W. , Wieben Eric D. , Weinshilboum Richard M.
Published: January 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 120, 881–890.

Serine hydroxymethyltransferase (SHMT) catalyzes the transfer of a β‐carbon from serine to tetrahydrofolate to form glycine and 5,10‐methylene‐tetrahydrofolate. This reaction plays an important role in neurotransmitter synthesis and metabolism. We set out to resequence SHMT1 and SHMT2, followed by functional genomic studies. We identified 87 and 60 polymorphisms in SHMT1 and SHMT2, respectively. We observed no significant functional effect of the 13 non‐synonymous single‐nucleotide polymorphism (SNPs) in these genes, either on catalytic activity or protein quantity. We imputed additional variants across the two genes using ‘1000 Genomes’ data, and identified 14 variants that were significantly associated (p < 1.0E−10) with SHMT1 messenger RNA expression in lymphoblastoid cell lines. Many of these SNPs were also significantly correlated with basal SHMT1 protein expression in 268 human liver biopsy samples. Reporter gene assays suggested that the SHMT1 promoter SNP, rs669340, contributed to this variation. Finally, SHMT1 and SHMT2 expression were significantly correlated with those of other Folate and Methionine Cycle genes at both the messenger RNA and protein levels. These experiments represent a comprehensive study of SHMT1 and SHMT2 gene sequence variation and its functional implications. In addition, we obtained preliminary indications that these genes may be co‐regulated with other Folate and Methionine Cycle genes.
Retinal cone and rod photoreceptor cells exhibit differential susceptibility to light‐induced damage
Authors: Okano Kiichiro , Maeda Akiko , Chen Yu , Chauhan Vishal , Tang Johnny , Palczewska Grazyna , Sakai Tsutomu , Tsuneoka Hiroshi , Palczewski Krzysztof , Maeda Tadao
Published: January 2012

J. Neurochem. (2012) 121, 146–156.

All‐trans‐retinal and its condensation‐products can cause retinal degeneration in a light‐dependent manner and contribute to the pathogenesis of human macular diseases such as Stargardt’s disease and age‐related macular degeneration. Although these toxic retinoid by‐products originate from rod and cone photoreceptor cells, the contribution of each cell type to light‐induced retinal degeneration is unknown. In this study, the primary objective was to learn whether rods or cones are more susceptible to light‐induced, all‐trans‐retinal‐mediated damage. Previously, we reported that mice lacking enzymes that clear all‐trans‐retinal from the retina, ATP‐binding cassette transporter 4 and retinol dehydrogenase 8, manifested light‐induced retinal dystrophy. We first examined early‐stage age‐related macular degeneration patients and found retinal degenerative changes in rod‐rich rather than cone‐rich regions of the macula. We then evaluated transgenic mice with rod‐only and cone‐like‐only retinas in addition to progenies of such mice inbred with Rdh8−/−Abca4−/− mice. Of all these strains, Rdh8−/−Abca4−/−mice with a mixed rod–cone population showed the most severe retinal degeneration under regular cyclic light conditions. Intense light exposure induced acute retinal damage in Rdh8−/−Abca4−/− and rod‐only mice but not cone‐like‐only mice. These findings suggest that progression of retinal degeneration in Rdh8−/−Abca4−/− mice is affected by differential vulnerability of rods and cones to light.
Nest positioning by male Daito White‐eyes Zosterops japonicus daitoensis improves with age to reduce nest predation risk
Authors: HORIE SAYAKA , TAKAGI MASAOKI
Published: January 2012

Age‐related improvement in reproductive success is widely observed in birds, and the mechanisms by which productivity is enhanced have received considerable attention. However, little is known about how parental age affects the loss of eggs or nestlings despite the fact that age effects on nesting success are often reported. We examined parental age effects on reproductive success in relation to the avoidance of nest predation in an island subspecies of the Japanese White‐eye, the Daito White‐eye Zosterops japonicus daitoensis. Clutch size and annual number of breeding attempts did not differ between parental age classes. Reproductive success was affected only by male age through an increase in nesting success. Nest failure was attributed only to predation in this species and nest concealment and nest height were important nest characteristics promoting successful fledging. Older males built their nests in more concealed and higher positions than first‐year birds, regardless of vegetation status around the nest. Analysis of individual birds suggested that by shifting the nest to a safer position, male White‐eyes achieved higher nesting success than in the previous year. Of three hypotheses of age‐related improvement in reproductive success considered, our data favoured the hypothesis that as individuals grow older, their breeding competence improves.
Thiazolidinedione‐dependent activation of sphingosine kinase 1 causes an anti‐fibrotic effect in renal mesangial cells
Authors: Koch A , Völzke A , Wünsche C , Meyer zu Heringdorf D , Huwiler A , Pfeilschifter J
Published: January 2012

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

PPARγ agonists [thiazolidinediones (TZDs)] are known to exert anti‐fibrotic effects in the kidney. In addition, we previously demonstrated that sphingosine kinase 1 (SK‐1) and intracellular sphingosine‐1‐phosphate (S1P), by reducing the expression of connective tissue growth factor (CTGF), have a protective role in the fibrotic process.

EXPERIMENTAL APPROACH

Here, we investigated the effect of TZDs on intracellular sphingolipid levels and the transcriptional regulation of SK‐1 in mesangial cells to evaluate potential novel aspects of the anti‐fibrotic capacity of TZDs.

KEY RESULTS

Stimulation with the TZDs, troglitazone and rosiglitazone, led to increased S1P levels in rat mesangial cells. This was paralleled by increased SK‐1 activity as a consequence of direct effects of the TZDs on SK‐1 expression. GW‐9662, a PPARγ antagonist, inhibited the stimulating effect of TZDs on SK‐1 mRNA and activity levels and intracellular S1P concentrations. Furthermore, SK‐1 up‐regulation by TZDs was functionally coupled with lower amounts of pro‐fibrotic CTGF. SK‐1 inhibition with SKI II almost completely abolished this effect in a dose‐dependent manner. Moreover, the CTGF lowering effect of TZDs was fully blocked in MC isolated from SK‐1 deficient mice (SK‐1−/−) as well as in glomeruli of SK‐1−/− mice compared with wild‐type mice treated with TRO and RSG.

CONCLUSION AND IMPLICATIONS

These data show that TZD‐induced SK‐1 up‐regulation results in lower amounts of CTGF, demonstrating novel facets for the anti‐fibrotic effects of this class of drugs.
Survival after Surgery for Tracheal Collapse and the Effect of Intrathoracic Collapse on Survival
Authors: Becker Willem M. , Beal Matthew , Stanley Bryden J. , Hauptman Joe G.
Published: January 2012

Objectives

To determine (1) long‐term survival of dogs with tracheal collapse (TC) receiving cervical extraluminal prosthetic rings (ELR) and (2) whether intrathoracic collapse effects long‐term survival of dogs receiving ELR.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs (n = 33) with TC that had ELR.

Methods

Medical records (July 2002–July 2008) were searched for TC dogs treated with ELR. Age, breed, gender, location of TC, and age at follow‐up (death or censor) were recorded. Kaplan–Meier survival curves were generated.

Results

Of 114 TC dogs, 33 had ELR. Breeds and gender were consistent with previous reports; mean (±SD) age at presentation was 6.3±2.6 years. TC was categorized as cervical or cervical and intrathoracic. All dogs had cervical TC and 15 had concurrent intrathoracic collapse; 8 of these had collapse of mainstem bronchi. Median survival time was >2500 days (median not reached) for cervical TC alone and 1500 days for cervical and intrathoracic TC with no difference in median survival time between groups (P= .26).

Conclusion

Dogs with TC have a median survival time of 1680 days (4.6 years) after ELR and no differences were seen when dogs had intrathoracic collapse. Intrathoracic collapse does not exclude a dog from receiving ELR.
MicroRNA control of myelopoiesis and the differentiation block in acute myeloid leukaemia
Authors: Palma Catalina A. , Tonna Elise J. , Ma David F. , Lutherborrow Mark A.
Published: January 2012

•Introduction

•MicroRNA control of normal haematopoiesis

 ‐Haematopoietic stem cell (HSC)

 ‐Common myeloid progenitor (CMP) and initiation of myelopoiesis

 ‐Monocyte/macrophage differentiation

 ‐Granulocytic differentiation

 ‐Erythroid/megakaryocytic differentiation

 ‐MicroRNA control of malignant differentiation

 ‐MicroRNAs associated with abnormal monocytic differentiation

 ‐MicroRNAs associated with abnormal granulocytic differentiation

 ‐MicroRNAs associated with abnormal erythroid and megakaryocytic differentiation

•Conclusion

In the relatively short period of time since their discovery, microRNAs have been shown to control many important cellular functions such as cell differentiation, growth, proliferation and apoptosis. In addition, microRNAs have been demonstrated as key drivers of many malignancies and can function as either tumour suppressors or oncogenes. The haematopoietic system is not outside the realm of microRNA control with microRNAs controlling aspects of stem cell and progenitor self‐renewal and differentiation, with many, if not all, haematological disorders associated with aberrant microRNA expression and function. In this review, we focus on the current understanding of microRNA control of haematopoiesis and detail the evidence for the contribution and clinical relevance of aberrant microRNA function to the characteristic block of differentiation in acute myeloid leukaemia.
Rhabdomyosarcomas: an overview on the experimental animal models
Authors: Zanola Alessandra , Rossi Stefania , Faggi Fiorella , Monti Eugenio , Fanzani Alessandro
Published: January 2012

● Introduction

● Histological, genetic and molecular characteristics of RMS

● Experimental animal models of RMS

– Carcinogen agents and ionizing radiations‐exposed animal models

– Virus infection and transgenic expression of viral proteins

– Gene‐targeted animal models

● Conclusions

Rhabdomyosarcomas (RMS) are aggressive childhood soft‐tissue malignancies deriving from mesenchymal progenitors that are committed to muscle‐specific lineages. Despite the histopathological signatures associated with three main histological variants, termed embryonal, alveolar and pleomorphic, a plethora of genetic and molecular changes are recognized in RMS. Over the years, exposure to carcinogens or ionizing radiations and gene‐targeting approaches in vivo have greatly contributed to disclose some of the mechanisms underlying RMS onset. In this review, we describe the principal distinct features associated with RMS variants and focus on the current available experimental animal models to point out the molecular determinants cooperating with RMS development and progression.
Histomorphometric and immunohistochemical analysis of human maxillary sinus‐floor augmentation using porous β‐tricalcium phosphate for dental implant treatment
Authors: Miyamoto Shinji , Shinmyouzu Kouhei , Miyamoto Ikuya , Takeshita Kenji , Terada Toshihisa , Takahashi Tetsu
Published: January 2012

Objectives

This study utilized the constitution and expression of Runx2/Cbfa1 to conduct 6‐month‐post‐operation histomorphometrical and histochemical analysis of osteocalcin in bone regeneration following sinus‐floor augmentation procedures using β‐tricalcium phosphate (β‐TCP) and autogenous cortical bone.

Material and methods

Thirteen sinuses of nine patients were treated with sinus‐floor augmentation using 50% β‐TCP and 50% autogenous cancellous bone harvested from the ramus of the mandible. Biopsies of augmented sinuses were taken at 6 months for histomorphometric and immunohistochemical measurements.

Results

Runx2/Cbfa1‐ and osteocalcin‐positive cells were found around TCP particles and on the bone surface. Approximately 60% of cells found around TCP particles stained positive for Runx2/Cbfa1. Fewer cells stained positive for osteocalcin. These positive cells decreased apically with increasing vertical distance from the maxillary bone surface. Histomorphometric analysis showed that the augmented site close to residual bone and periosteum contained approximately 42% bony tissue and 42% soft connective tissue, and the remaining 16% consisted of TCP particles. On the other hand, the augmented bone far from residual bone and periosteum contained 35% bony tissue and 50% soft connective tissue.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that TCP particles attract osteoprogenitor cells that migrate into the interconnecting micropores of the bone‐substitute material by 6 months. The augmented site close to residual bone contained a higher proportion of bony tissue and a lower proportion of soft connective tissue than did the augmented site far from residual bone.
Distinct Recycling of Active and Inactive β1 Integrins
Authors: Arjonen Antti , Alanko Jonna , Veltel Stefan , Ivaska Johanna
Published: January 2012

Integrin trafficking plays an important role in cellular motility and cytokinesis. Integrins undergo constant endo/exocytic shuttling to facilitate the dynamic regulation of cell adhesion. Integrin activity toward the components of the extracellular matrix is regulated by the ability of these receptors to switch between active and inactive conformations. Several cellular signalling pathways have been described in the regulation of integrin traffic under different conditions. However, the interrelationship between integrin activity conformations and their endocytic fate have remained incompletely understood. Here, we have investigated the endocytic trafficking of active and inactive β1 integrins in cancer cells. Both conformers are endocytosed in a clathrin‐ and dynamin‐dependent manner. The net endocytosis rate of the active β1 integrins is higher, whereas endocytosis of the inactive β1 integrin is counteracted by rapid recycling back to the plasma membrane via an ARF6‐ and early endosome antigen 1‐positive compartment in an Rab4a‐ and actin‐dependent manner. Owing to these distinct trafficking routes, the two receptor pools display divergent subcellular localization. At steady state, the inactive β1 integrin is mainly on the plasma membrane, whereas the active receptor is predominantly intracellular. These data provide new insights into the endocytic traffic of integrins and imply the possibility of a previously unappreciated crosstalk between pathways regulating integrin activity and traffic.
Predicting vascular plant richness patterns in Catalonia (NE Spain) using species distribution models
Authors: Pérez Nora , Font Xavier
Published: January 2012

Question

Given the current state of knowledge on plant species richness in Catalonia, how can we improve definition of sampled species richness patterns? We propose a concrete methodology that will highlight the most speciose areas and those areas that are insufficiently sampled.

Location

Catalonia, covering 31 980 km2 in northeast Spain.

Methods

This study provides a quantitative assessment of plant richness using sampling units of 10 km × 10 km (n = 319). Generalized linear models (GLM), multivariate adaptive regression splines (MARS) and a maximum entropy model (Maxent) were used for all plant species contained in the Catalonia Database of Biodiversity (Banc de Dades de Biodiversitat de Catalunya, BDBC). The projected presence/absence maps were combined to create species richness maps based on distribution models for 2738 species.

Results

The modelling techniques were highly correlated, and we did not distinguish any differences in projections of geographic patterns of species richness among the modelling algorithms. However, MARS and Maxent achieved the best prediction success, whereas GLM tended to over‐predict species number per quadrat. The MARS map gave the highest predictive performance based on both Kappa and the true skill statistic, and for the two components of disagreement (quantity and allocation disagreement). We were able to identify one previously known region of high diversity, the Pyrenees, and two additional areas, the coastal range and the pre‐coastal mountain range.

Conclusions

We obtain improved distribution patterns for plant species in Catalonia over the previously sampled patterns, and, most importantly, we provide an estimate of the number of species present in those areas where sampling data are incomplete, with an expected 300 species. The model‐predicted richness maps presented here can be used to detect zones with low and high species richness and to develop strategies for either restoring or protecting landscape biodiversity as part of national conservation plans.
A right to be heard: learning from learners with additional needs in literacy
Authors: McPhillips Thérèse , Shevlin Michael , Long Louise
Published: January 2012

This study aimed to explore the consultation experiences of pupils who have additional needs in literacy. An opportunistic sample of eight schools – four in Northern Ireland and four in the Republic of Ireland – were chosen by the researchers; selected pupils were receiving additional literacy support. Focus group discussions and arts‐based creative methodologies were used through which visual and verbal stimuli supported and extended the narratives of the children. The findings showed that pupils have a capacity for self‐reflection and metacognitive talk around literacy. They had a keen awareness of their specific difficulties and the reading strategies they use. However, they wished for greater choice in how literacy support is organised and for more information about individual reading targets and scores. There was a great desire among pupils for consultation at meetings concerning their progress. Involving pupils in planning and evaluating their literacy learning needs as a fundamental right raises questions about teachers’ current protectiveness of pupils with additional needs.
Identification of two novel HLA‐A*02 variants, A*02:319 and A*02:01:64, in two Taiwanese marrow stem cell donors by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Yang K. L. , Lee S. K. , Yang S. Y. , Kao R. H. , Lin C. L. , Lin P. Y.
Published: January 2012

We report here two novel variants of HLA‐A*02 allele, A*02:319 and A*02:01:64, discovered in two Taiwanese unrelated volunteer bone marrow donors by sequence‐based typing (SBT) method. The DNA sequence of A*02:319 is identical to A*02:07 in exons 2 and 3 but varies with one nucleotide at codon 9 (TTC‐>TCC). The variation caused one amino acid substitution at residue 9 (F‐>S). On the other hand, the DNA sequence of A*02:01:64 is identical to the sequence of A*02:01:01:01 in exons 2 and 3 except a silent mutation at codon 114 (CAC‐>CAT). The probable HLA‐A, HLA‐B and HLA‐DRB1 haplotypes in association with A*02:319 and A*02:01:64 were deduced as A*02:319‐B*46:01‐DRB1*04 and A*02:01:64‐B*38:02‐DRB1*16:02, respectively.
The Changing Role of Place‐Image in the Profit Making Strategies of the Designer Fashion Industry
Authors: Tokatli Nebahat
Published: January 2012

In today’s designer fashion industry, a number of interesting new trends are emerging. For example, some firms are freely appropriating each other’s place‐images suggesting that any place‐image is now up for grabs; some brands are becoming too cool for place‐image; and some designers are growing too powerful to be place‐bound. In this article, I argue that these developments are of interest to economic geographers.
Phloroglucinol Attenuates Ultraviolet B Radiation‐Induced Matrix Metalloproteinase‐1 Production in Human Keratinocytes via Inhibitory Actions against Mitogen‐Activated Protein Kinases and Activator Protein‐1
Authors: Piao Mei Jing , Zhang Rui , Lee Nam Ho , Hyun Jin Won
Published: January 2012

Excessive amounts of reactive oxygen species (ROS) induced by ultraviolet (UV) radiation cause skin aging via basement membrane/extracellular matrix degradation resulting from the action of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs). Recently, phloroglucinol (1,3,5‐trihydroxybenzene) was demonstrated to attenuate the cell damage induced by oxidative stress by quenching ROS and stimulating antioxidant systems. In the current study, the effect of phloroglucinol on UVB‐induced photoaging was investigated in human HaCaT keratinocytes. Phloroglucinol significantly inhibited the UVB‐induced (1) upregulation of MMP‐1 mRNA, protein and activity; (2) augmentation of intracellular Ca2+ levels; (3) phosphorylation of mitogen‐activated protein kinases (MAPKs); (4) expression of c‐Fos and phospho c‐Jun; and (5) enhancement of activator protein‐1 (AP‐1) binding to the MMP‐1 promoter. In addition, the knockdown of MAPKs significantly inhibited UVB‐induced MMP‐1 expression. The results of this study suggest that phloroglucinol may be useful as a photoprotective compound for the skin.
Mechanistic Aspects of Photoinactivation of Candida albicans by Exogenous Porphyrins†
Authors: Oriel Sarit , Nitzan Yeshayahu
Published: January 2012

The mechanism of photoinactivation of Candida albicans by 3.5 μm uncharged, cationic or anionic porphyrins under blue light (407–420 nm) was found to be dependent on the uptake of porphyrins into yeast cells, and was also dependent on the presence or absence of proteins in the photosensitization medium. In a very protein‐rich medium, a decrease in viability was observed only with the uncharged porphyrin. Photoinactivation by uncharged or cationic porphyrins in a protein‐poorer medium resulted in total eradication, whereas no significant decrease was observed with the anionic porphyrin. Phototreatment in PBS resulted in eradication with all three porphyrins. X‐ray microanalysis after phototreatment by the uncharged or cationic porphyrins in the protein‐poor medium exhibited ion loss, indicating cell‐membrane damage. Transmission electron microscopy indicated cellular and chromosomal damage. No ion loss or cell damage was observed in this medium with the anionic porphyrin. The efficiency of photoeradication of C. albicans is dependent on porphyrin uptake, which might lead (upon illumination) to processes that facilitate the formation of reactive oxygen species that damage the cells. Uptake of charged porphyrins is dependent on protein quantity and quality in the photosensitization microenvironment. This fact must be taken into account when using charged photosensitizers.
My Networking Is Not Working! Conceptualizing the Latent and Dysfunctional Dimensions of the Network Paradigm
Authors: Vorley Tim , Mould Oli , Courtney Richard
Published: January 2012

abstract

Networks have become a major analytical concept in economic geography and have served to extend both empirical and theoretical research agendas. However, much of the literature on networks is characterized asassociative, considering them only as cumulative constructs through the constant enrollment of additional actors. Through the lens of social capital and a discussion of the limitations of the networking paradigm in economic geography, this article aims to move beyond this associative nature and introduce variance in network practices in the form of nonworking and not working. By presenting a hypothetical example of a project‐based network, we introduce the concepts of nonworking and not working as latency and disassociation as dimensions of network practices. In doing so, we present a more nuanced approach to the networking paradigm in relational economic geography, one that moves beyond a purely associative understanding to incorporate nonworking and not working.
Case report of atypical infiltrative lipomatosis of the equine mesojejunum
Authors: Linnenkohl W. , Mair T. , Fews D.
Published: January 2012

A 25‐year‐old mare was examined for persistent colic. Over the previous month, the mare had experienced several episodes of mild recurrent colic. The episode of colic persisted for 18 h and the pain became unresponsive to analgesic therapy. Euthanasia was undertaken.Post mortemexamination revealed an atypical infiltrative lipoma of the mesojejunum, confirmed histopathologically. To the authors' knowledge, this is the first case report of a diffuse infiltrative lipoma of the equine mesojejunum.
Differential modulation of crossed and uncrossed reflex pathways by clonidine in adult cats following complete spinal cord injury
Authors: Frigon Alain , Johnson Michael D. , Heckman C. J.
Published: January 2012

Non‐technical summary  Clonidine, a noradrenaline‐like drug, facilitates the recovery of hindlimb walking in adult cats following a complete spinal cord injury.We show that clonidine improves operation of reflex pathways that coordinate bilateral hindlimb activity in cats after spinal cord injury. In addition, sensory signals from the periphery more easily activate the spinal network involved in producing locomotion following clonidine injection.These results show that spinal neurons that produce locomotion and coordinate bilateral activity become more excitable with clonidine.These data could help identify neurons of the spinal locomotor network and lead to a better pharmacotherapy in spinal cord‐injured humans.
Rod, M‐cone and M/S‐cone inputs to hyperpolarizing bipolar cells in the mouse retina
Authors: Pang Ji‐Jie , Gao Fan , Paul David L. , Wu Samuel M.
Published: January 2012

Non‐technical summary  ON and OFF pathways are major information processing channels of the visual system, and they begin at the retinal bipolar cell level. Here we show a systematic study correlating light response characteristics and cell morphology of OFF (hyperpolarizing) bipolar cells (HBCs) in the mouse retina. Results from this study provide a description of how rods, M‐cones and M/S‐cones mediate responses in three major types of HBCs, and how synapses in the OFF pathway are interconnected to serve various visual tasks.
Deep anisotropic LiNbO3 etching with SF6/Ar inductively coupled plasmas
Authors: Jun Deng , Wei Jia , Eng Png Ching , Guangyuan Si , Son Jaesung , Yang Hyunsoo , Danner Aaron J.
Published: January 2012

A SF6/Ar inductively coupled plasma (ICP) technique was investigated to improve etching of proton exchanged LiNbO3. The influences of He backside cooling, power, and gas flows on characteristics such as etching rate, sidewall slope angle, and surface roughness were investigated. Total gas flow is a key parameter that affects etching results, and an optimized gas flow (50 sccm) was used for lengthy etching processes (30 min). Deep (>3 μm) and highly anisotropic etching, as well as ultra smooth LiNbO3 surfaces were achieved in a single-step run. The authors’ proposed method has achieved the deepest, most vertical, minimal residue structure yet reported for single-step ICP etching.
Ancestral Developmental Potential Facilitates Parallel Evolution in Ants
Authors: Rajakumar Rajendhran , San Mauro Diego , Dijkstra Michiel B. , Huang Ming H. , Wheeler Diana E. , Hiou-Tim Francois , Khila Abderrahman , Cournoyea Michael , Abouheif Ehab
Published: January 2012

Supersoldier Throwbacks

Anomalous traits reflecting those of an ancestor sporadically appear in individuals that normally should not have them. Through their work with the hyperdiverse ant genus
Pheidole
,

Rajakumar
et al.

(p.
79
) suggest that these anomalies represent raw materials for selection to act upon. The ants possess an ancestral developmental potential, to produce “supersoldiers,” that has been retained for over 30 million years for which recurrent induction has facilitated the adaptive and parallel evolution of supersoldiers.
PrP Antibodies Do Not Trigger Mouse Hippocampal Neuron Apoptosis
Authors: Klöhn Peter-Christian , Farmer Michael , Linehan Jacqueline M. , O'Malley Catherine , Fernandez de Marco Mar , Taylor William , Farrow Mark , Khalili-Shirazi Azy , Brandner Sebastian , Collinge John
Published: January 2012

Potentially therapeutic monoclonal antibodies do not kill neurons.
Plasmonic Modes Revealed
Authors: Batson Philip E.
Published: January 2012

Time-resolved electron microscopy can map the electric field created in and around a nanoparticle by photonic excitation of its plasmonic modes.
The Crystal Structure of TAL Effector PthXo1 Bound to Its DNA Target
Authors: Mak Amanda Nga-Sze , Bradley Philip , Cernadas Raul A. , Bogdanove Adam J. , Stoddard Barry L.
Published: January 2012

Wrapped DNA

TAL effectors are proteins that bacterial pathogens inject into plant cells that bind to host DNA to activate expression of plant genes. The DNA-binding domain of TAL proteins is composed of tandem repeats within which a repeat-variable diresidue sequence confers nucleotide specificity.

Deng
et al.

(p.
720
, published online 5 January) report the structure of the TAL effector dHax3, containing 11.5 repeats, in DNA-free and DNA-bound states, and

Mak
et al.

(p.
716
, published online 5 January) report the structure of the PthXo1 TAL effector, containing 22 repeats, bound to its DNA target. Together, the structures reveal the conformational changes involved in DNA binding and provide the structural basis of DNA recognition.
Dominance of Serotype Ia among Group B Streptococci Causing Invasive Infections in Nonpregnant Adults in Portugal
Authors: Martins E. R. , Melo-Cristino J. , Ramirez M. ,   the Portuguese Group for the Study of Streptococcal Infections
Published: January 2012

The population of group B streptococci (GBS) associated with invasive infections in nonpregnant adults from 2001 to 2008 was analyzed in isolates submitted from 24 hospital laboratories in Portugal (
n
= 225). The isolates were characterized by antimicrobial susceptibility, pulsed-field gel electrophoresis (PFGE), multilocus sequence typing (MLST), and surface protein gene profiling. GBS invasive cases were found more frequently among men in all age groups. In addition, serotype Ia was the most frequent in our collection, whereas serotype V is dominant elsewhere. Serotype Ia was represented mainly by a single PFGE cluster defined by sequence type 23 (ST23) and surface protein gene
eps
and by ST24 and
bca
, similarly to neonatal invasive infections in Portugal, indicating that the same genetic lineages can be responsible for both vaginal colonization and invasive disease in all age groups. In contrast, the hypervirulent serotype III/ST17 neonatal lineage was responsible for a minority of infections. Serotype V isolates were distributed into two genetic lineages, one defined by ST1 and surface protein gene
alp3
and macrolide resistant, and another presenting with ST2 and
eps
and fully susceptible to all antimicrobials tested. The
erm
(TR) gene was the most frequently found among erythromycin-resistant isolates, while the bovine-associated
tet
(O) gene was found in a minority of tetracycline-resistant isolates. Our data emphasize the importance of local identification of the genetic lineages responsible for GBS invasive infections in nonpregnant adults. The dominance of serotype Ia in invasive disease in Portugal highlights the importance of this serotype in GBS pathogenesis.
Real-Time Nucleic Acid Sequence-Based Amplification Assay for Rapid Detection and Quantification of
agr
Functionality in Clinical Staphylococcus aureus Isolates
Authors: Chen Liang , Shopsin Bo , Zhao Yanan , Smyth Davida , Wasserman Gregory A. , Fang Christina , Liu Lisa , Kreiswirth Barry N.
Published: January 2012

Staphylococcus aureus
infections are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in health care settings.
S. aureus
clinical isolates vary in the function of the accessory gene regulator (
agr
), which governs the expression of virulence determinants, including surface and exoproteins, while
agr
activity has been correlated with patient outcome and treatment efficiency. Here we describe a duplex real-time nucleic acid sequence-based amplification (NASBA) detection and quantification platform for rapid determination of
agr
functionality in clinical isolates. Using the effector of
agr
response, RNAIII, as the assay target, and expression of the gyrase gene (
gyrB
) as a normalizer, we were able to accurately discriminate
agr
functionality in a single reaction. Time to positivity (TTP) ratios between
gyrB
and RNAIII showed very good correlation with the ratios of RNAIII versus
gyrB
RNA standard inputs and were therefore used as a simple readout to evaluate
agr
functionality. We validated the assay by characterizing 106 clinical
S. aureus
isolates, including strains with genetically characterized
agr
mutations. All isolates with dysfunctional
agr
activity exhibited a TTP ratio (TTP

gyrB

/TTP
RNAIII
) lower than 1.10, whereas
agr
-positive isolates had a TTP ratio higher than this value. The results showed that the assay was capable of determining target RNA ratios over 8 logs (10
−3
to 10
4
) with high sensitivity and specificity, suggesting the duplex NASBA assay may be useful for rapid determination of
agr
phenotypes and virulence potential in
S. aureus
clinical isolates.
Reactions of Norwegian children with severe egg allergy to an egg-containing influenza A (H1N1) vaccine: a retrospective audit: Table 1
Authors: Forsdahl Bård Anders
Published: January 2012

Design

Retrospective audit.

Setting

Secondary paediatric outpatient clinic, Tromsø, Norway.

Participants

The participants were 80 (62.5% boys and 37.5% girls) children and adolescents with a diagnosed egg allergy who had to be on an egg-free diet and be unable to eat any food containing any amount of egg, including egg-containing baked goods, without an allergic reaction to egg protein. We also included patients who were sensitised to egg but had never been exposed to egg or egg-containing baked goods and were on an egg-free diet. Other atopic diseases among the study participants were also registered.

Intervention

The vaccination took place from November to December 2009. The patients were vaccinated with a monovalent influenza A (H1N1) vaccine that had an ovalbumin content <0.33 μg/ml. They were divided into two groups, receiving the vaccine either as a single dose or as a fractionated dose. Patients were selected for the fractionated dose because of their prior reaction to egg or because they never had been exposed to egg.

Primary outcome

There were no serious adverse reactions to the vaccine; only one mild adverse reaction and two possible adverse reactions.

Results

Patients ranged in age from 10 months to 16.5 years. Thirty-eight (48%) patients received a fractionated dose. Sixty-three (79%) had one or more atopic disease apart from egg allergy. With regard to atopy, serum specific IgE levels or skin prick test, there were no significant differences between the groups receiving the vaccine as a fractionated or as a single dose.

Conclusions

The study confirmed that patients allergic to egg can be safely vaccinated with a regular influenza vaccine containing <0.333 μg/ml ovalbumin, even if these patients had displayed previous anaphylactic reactions to egg and had been diagnosed with concurrent atopic diseases.
Excess posthypoxic oxygen consumption in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss): recovery in normoxia and hypoxia
Authors: Svendsen Jon Christian , Steffensen John Fleng , Aarestrup Kim , Frisk Michael , Etzerodt Anne , Jyde Mads
Published: January 2012

Under certain conditions, a number of fish species may perform brief excursions into severe hypoxia and return to water with a higher oxygen content. The term severe hypoxia describes oxygen conditions that are below the critical oxygen saturation (Scrit), defined here as the oxygen threshold at which the standard metabolic rate becomes dependent upon the ambient oxygen content. Using rainbow trout ( Oncorhynchus mykiss (Walbaum, 1792), this study quantified the excess posthypoxic oxygen consumption (EPHOC) occurring after exposure to oxygen availability below Scrit. Tests showed that Scritwas 13.5% air saturation (O2sat). Fish were exposed to 10% O2satfor 0.97 h, and the EPHOC was quantified in normoxia (≥95% O2sat) and hypoxia (30% O2sat) to test the hypothesis that reduced oxygen availability would decrease the peak metabolic rate (MO2peak) and prolong the duration of the metabolic recovery. Results showed that MO2peakduring the recovery was reduced from 253 to 127 mg O2·kg–1·h–1in hypoxia compared with normoxia. Metabolic recovery lasted 5.2 h in normoxia and 9.8 h in hypoxia. The EPHOC, however, did not differ between the two treatments. Impeded metabolic recovery in hypoxia may have implications for fish recovering from exposure to oxygen availability below Scrit.