bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Geochemical Characteristics and Tectonic Significance of Triassic Granite from Taer Region, the Northern Margin of West Kunlun
Authors: Jianguo HUANG , Ruidong YANG , Jian YANG , Chunlong CUI
Published: April 2013

Late Hercynian‐early Indosinian (Triassic) granite is widely distributed around the Taer region of the northern margin of West Kunlun. The rock mass is mainly composed of calcalkaline porphyroid biotite adamellite and characterized by SiO2‐rich, high‐Ca, moderate‐alkaline, and strongly peraluminous attributes, and relatively low ΣREE with LREE enrichment and a moderate Eu anomaly. As shown in the trace element spider web diagram, distinct peaks appear for Th, La, Nd, and Zr and clearly low values appear for Ba, Nb, Sr, P, and Ti. Further, compared with the primitive mantle, Rb/Sr and Rb/Ba are considerably higher and Nd/Th and Nb/Ta are relative low, all falling into the scope of the crust‐origin rocks, indicating the characteristics of the crust‐origin S‐type granite. The rock mass's zircon U‐Pb isotopic age is determined to be 235.7 ± 3.9 Ma. On the basis of the age data, spatio‐temporal location, lithology, and geochemistry of the rock mass, we conclude that the formation of the rock mass is closely related to the strong compressional orogenic movement (240 Ma) of the Tianshuihai terrane and the South Kunlun terrane. The rock mass is the product of the collision orogenic movement. However, distinct differences are observed between the studied rock mass and the synorogenic Bulunkou rock mass, which may be caused by the different collision strength and different positions with respect to the collision zone.
Cenomanian‐Coniacian Sea‐level Change and Dissolved Oxygen Fluctuations in Tethys‐Himalaya: Evidences from Benthic Foraminifera of Gamba, Tibet
Authors: Jianzhong JIA , Xiaoqiao WAN , Puli CHEN , Guobiao LI , Tian JIANG , Haiying QU
Published: April 2013

Benthic foraminifera, preserved in the Late Cretaceous organic carbon‐rich sediments of Gamba, southern Tibet, provide high‐resolution proxies for sea‐level changes and dissolved oxygen fluctuations of southeastern Tethys. The fossils were statistically analyzed and divided into three faunas of “Cenomanian fauna”, “Turonian fauna”, and “Coniacian fauna”. A middle neritic‐upper bathal environment (50–250m) was estimated considering the ratios of planktonic and epifaunal benthic foraminifera (P/(P+E)), the morphological analysis according to the studies of recent foraminifera and the abundant distributions of depth‐related species such as Alabamina creta, Laevidentalina sp., Praebulimina spp., Pleurostomella cf. naranjoensis, Pyrulina sp., Quinqueloculina spp., Haplophragmoides spp., etc. The result shows an almost parallel trend with the global transgressive and regressive cycles, but the former fluctuates more frequently at upper Cenomanian, which probably indicates tectonic instability of the continental margin. According to the benthic foraminiferal richness (BFN), Shannon‐Weiner diversity (H(s)), as well as benthic foraminiferal oxygen index (BFOI), five periods of oxygen depleted conditions (dysoxic‐anoxic) have been recognized. They correspond to the OAE2, the lower Turonian, the upper Turonian, the Turonian‐Caniacian boundary event and the probably OAE3. In addition, the oxygen fluctuations in Gamba might be controlled directly by sea‐level changes, while the paleoproductivity and oxygen conditions interacted with each other under oxygen deficiency environments.
Weeds and native plant species are negatively associated along grassland and kiwifruit land management intensity gradients
Authors: Peltzer Duane A. , MacLeod Catriona J.
Published: April 2013

Agroecosystems are increasingly recognized as both sources and sinks of non‐native weedy plant species as well as of native plant species, thus management of these systems has important implications for the composition of plant communities and landscape diversity. We quantified the distribution and abundance of both native and non‐native plant species along a habitat gradient representing four management zones: managed agroecosystem, the agroecosystem boundary, ecotone, and neighbouring native forest for two land uses: kiwifruit orchards and neighbouring grassland agroecosystems. Native plant species diversity was highest in forest zones, and declined significantly with increasing non‐native plant diversity across all management zones. The negative relationship between native and non‐native plant species richness and diversity across all management zones was surprising, and contrasts with most ecological literature. Further, non‐native plant species that have the largest ecological or ecosystem impacts were most abundant in ecotones, but were largely absent from managed zones and their margins. Our results suggest that agroecosystems and neighbouring vegetation can harbour native species, but can also be a source of non‐native invasive weeds. These results highlight that agricultural margins contain both native plant diversity and environmental weeds, and that management of these margins affects diversity both on and off the farm.
Epistatic Interaction between Genetic Variants in Susceptibility Gene ETS1 Correlates with IL‐17 Levels in SLE Patients
Authors: Zhang Jing , Zhang Yan , Zhang Lu , Yang Jing , Ying Dingge , Zeng Shuai , Lee Tsz Leung , Lau Chak Sing , Chan Tak Mao , Leung Alexander Moon Ho , Mok Chi Chiu , Wong Sik Nin , Lee Ka Wing , Ho Marco Hok Kung , Lee Pamela Pui Wah , Hon‐Yin Chung Brian , Chong Chun Yin , Wong Raymond Woon Sing , Mok Mo Yin , Wong Wilfred Hing Sang , Lau Yu Lung , Yang Wanling
Published: April 2013

T‐helper cells that produce IL‐17 (Th17 cells) are a subset of CD4+ T‐cells with pathological roles in autoimmune diseases including systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and ETS1 is a negative regulator of Th17 cell differentiation. Our previous work on genome‐wide association study (GWAS) identified two variants in the ETS1 gene (rs10893872 and rs1128334) as being associated with SLE. However, like many other risk alleles for complex diseases, little is known on how these genetic variants might affect disease pathogenesis. In this study, we examined serum IL‐17 levels from 283 SLE cases and observed a significant correlation between risk variants in ETS1 and serum IL‐17 concentration in patients, which suggests a potential mechanistic link between these variants and the disease. Furthermore, we found that the two variants act synergistically in influencing IL‐17 production, with evidence of significant genetic interaction between them as well as higher correlation between the haplotype formed by the risk alleles and IL‐17 level in patient serum. In addition, the correlation between ETS1 variants and IL‐17 level seems to be more significant in SLE patients manifesting renal involvement, dsDNA autoantibody production or early‐onset.
Cytokine Patterns Differ Seasonally between Women with and without Uterine Leiomyomata
Authors: Wegienka Ganesa , Day Baird Donna , Cooper Tracy , Woodcroft Kimberley J. , Havstad Suzanne
Published: April 2013

Problem

Uterine leiomyomata are the most common reproductive tumor in women, and their cause is not known.

Methods of Study

Plasma samples from 155 women (74 with and 81 without ultrasound‐confirmed leiomyoma) from a new study of leiomyoma risk factors in the Detroit, Michigan area, were examined for any cross‐sectional associations between commonly examined cytokines and leiomyoma presence.

Results

Associations varied by season of sample collection defined a priori as winter (December–February) and non‐winter seasons. In the winter months, interleukin (IL)13 and IL17 were positively and IP10 was inversely associated with having a leiomyoma. In the non‐winter samples, VEGF, G‐CSF, and IP10 were positively associated and Monocyte chemotactic protein‐1, IL13, and IL17 were inversely associated with having a leiomyoma. Associations were not changed by adjustment for age or BMI.

Conclusions

These data suggest that new insight into leiomyoma formation may be acquired through investigation of the immune system.
Skin test concentrations for systemically administered drugs – anENDA/EAACIDrug Allergy Interest Group position paper
Authors: Brockow K. , Garvey L. H. , Aberer W. , Atanaskovic‐Markovic M. , Barbaud A. , Bilo M. B. , Bircher A. , Blanca M. , Bonadonna B. , Campi P. , Castro E. , Cernadas J. R. , Chiriac A. M. , Demoly P. , Grosber M. , Gooi J. , Lombardo C. , Mertes P. M. , Mosbech H. , Nasser S. , Pagani M. , Ring J. , Romano A. , Scherer K. , Schnyder B. , Testi S. , Torres M. , Trautmann A. , Terreehorst I. ,   The ENDA/EAACI Drug Allergy Interest Group
Published: April 2013

Skin tests are of paramount importance for the evaluation of drug hypersensitivity reactions. Drug skin tests are often not carried out because of lack of concise information on specific test concentrations. The diagnosis of drug allergy is often based on history alone, which is an unreliable indicator of true hypersensitivity.To promote and standardize reproducible skin testing with safe and nonirritant drug concentrations in the clinical practice, theEuropeanNetwork andEuropeanAcademy ofAllergy andClinicalImmunology (EAACI) Interest Group on Drug Allergy has performed a literature search on skin test drug concentration inMEDLINEandEMBASE, reviewed and evaluated the literature in five languages using theGRADEsystem for quality of evidence and strength of recommendation. Where the literature is poor, we have taken into consideration the collective experience of the group.We recommend drug concentration for skin testing aiming to achieve a specificity of at least 95%. It has been possible to recommend specific drug concentration for betalactam antibiotics, perioperative drugs, heparins, platinum salts and radiocontrast media. For many other drugs, there is insufficient evidence to recommend appropriate drug concentration. There is urgent need for multicentre studies designed to establish and validate drug skin test concentration using standard protocols. For most drugs, sensitivity of skin testing is higher in immediate hypersensitivity compared to nonimmediate hypersensitivity.
The pathophysiology of retinopathy of prematurity: an update of previous and recent knowledge
Authors: Cavallaro Giacomo , Filippi Luca , Bagnoli Paola , La Marca Giancarlo , Cristofori Gloria , Raffaeli Genny , Padrini Letizia , Araimo Gabriella , Fumagalli Monica , Groppo Michela , Dal Monte Massimo , Osnaghi Silvia , Fiorini Patrizio , Mosca Fabio
Published: April 2013

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a disease that can cause blindness in very low birthweight infants. The incidence of ROP is closely correlated with the weight and the gestational age at birth. Despite current therapies, ROP continues to be a highly debilitating disease. Our advancing knowledge of the pathogenesis of ROP has encouraged investigations into new antivasculogenic therapies. The purpose of this article is to review the findings on the pathophysiological mechanisms that contribute to the transition between the first and second phases of ROP and to investigate new potential therapies. Oxygen has been well characterized for the key role that it plays in retinal neoangiogenesis. Low or high levels of pO2 regulate the normal or abnormal production of hypoxia‐inducible factor 1 and vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGF), which are the predominant regulators of retinal angiogenesis. Although low oxygen saturation appears to reduce the risk of severe ROP when carefully controlled within the first few weeks of life, the optimal level of saturation still remains uncertain. IGF‐1 and Epo are fundamentally required during both phases of ROP, as alterations in their protein levels can modulate disease progression. Therefore, rhIGF‐1 and rhEpo were tested for their abilities to prevent the loss of vasculature during the first phase of ROP, whereas anti‐VEGF drugs were tested during the second phase. At present, previous hypotheses concerning ROP should be amended with new pathogenetic theories. Studies on the role of genetic components, nitric oxide, adenosine, apelin and β‐adrenergic receptor have revealed new possibilities for the treatment of ROP. The genetic hypothesis that single‐nucleotide polymorphisms within the β‐ARs play an active role in the pathogenesis of ROP suggests the concept of disease prevention using β‐blockers. In conclusion, all factors that can mediate the progression from the avascular to the proliferative phase might have significant implications for the further understanding and treatment of ROP.
Dual Energy Computed Tomography for the Non‐destructive Analysis of Ancient Ceramics
Authors: McKenzie‐Clark J. , Magnussen J.
Published: April 2013

Ceramics are usually the most common artefact found on any ancient archaeological site. Compositional analysis of this pottery, and characterization of the clay fabrics from which they are made, has the potential to pinpoint sources of manufacture as well as identify trade routes and consumption patterns in the ancient world. Currently, most analytical techniques require the partial or total destruction of the ceramic sample. This research investigates the use of dual energy computed tomography (DECT) to analyse Black Gloss and Vesuvian Sigillata from Pompeii. The results indicate that DECT may be a viable adjunct or alternative to conventional analytical techniques. Importantly, unlike traditional methods, DECT is totally non‐destructive, a highly significant factor when analysing irreplaceable artefacts.
Relationship between body condition score and ultrasound measurement of backfat thickness in multiparous Holstein dairy cows at different production phases
Authors: Hussein HA , Westphal A , Staufenbiel R
Published: April 2013

Background

The validity of the body condition score (BCS) for evaluating subcutaneous fat has been questioned because of its subjectivity. With the advent of ultrasonography, backfat thickness (BFT) can be objectively measured and used to assess the energy status of dairy cows in conjunction with BCS.

Objective

Determine the relationship between BCS and ultrasound measurements of BFT throughout the lactation cycle.

Methods

Cows (n = 1123) were selected randomly and classified according to their lactation stage into four different groups. BCS was determined using a 5‐point scale and BFT measurements were obtained using a 5‐MHz linear transducer.

Results

The correlation coefficient (r) for the relationship between BCS and BFT varied according to the stage of lactation. There was a high correlation (r = 0.96–0.98) and relationship (r2 = 0.92–0.96) between BCS and BFT. The highest correlation was found at BFT values of 10–35 mm and BCS of 2–4.5 units.

Conclusion

BCS is a practical tool for evaluating body condition; furthermore, it may be as valid as BFT for the estimation of subcutaneous fat in Holstein dairy cows over time.
Fifty years of tree line change in the Khibiny Mountains, Russia: advantages of combined remote sensing and dendroecological approaches
Authors: Mathisen Ingrid E. , Mikheeva Anna , Tutubalina Olga V. , Aune Sigrun , Hofgaard Annika
Published: April 2013

Questions

Tree line ecotone regions are expected to respond swiftly to climate changes. In this paper, remote sensing‐ and ground‐based tree population data are used to examine past and on‐going changes of the tree line ecotone in a sub‐arctic region characterized by precipitation increase. Questions addressed are: (1) at what rate has the tree line ecotone changed since the mid‐20th century; (2) can specific temporal dynamics be identified; and (3) do combined remote sensing and tree population analyses add essential knowledge for the interpretation of tree line changes?

Location

Khibiny Mountains, Kola Peninsula, northwest Russia.

Methods

Aerial photos from 1958, high‐resolution satellite imagery from 2006/2008 and age structure data for dominant tree line species (birch and pine) were used to analyse rate of change and temporal and species‐specific tree line recruitment patterns. This was accomplished using digital elevation models, resolution‐merging procedures, visual interpretation and dendroecological methods.

Results

Mean tree line advance for birch and pine was recorded as 29 and 27 altitudinal metres (0.6 and 0.5 m·yr−1), respectively. The advance was accompanied by an apparent infilling of pre‐established tree populations and by recruitment beyond the tree line. Evident increased recruitment occurred in the late 1980s for birch and in the 1970s and 1990s for pine. Establishment showed no strong correlations with climate variables, but the importance of non‐growing season variables was indicated.

Conclusions

The recorded tree line advance is modest compared to global model predictions for advance at high latitudes, but in accordance with results from a number of high‐latitude areas. Concomitantly, the apparent increased recruitment is indicative of a more rapidly advancing tree line zone. Studies combining remote sensing and ground‐based data minimize the risk of under‐ or overestimating potential tree line advance. Low detectability of small seedlings and saplings by remote sensing can cause underestimation of the current potential, while ground‐based data used alone can overestimate potential advance. A balance between the two approaches is beneficial and enhances quality in production of change scenarios related to high latitudinal tree line areas at local to large regional scales.
Towards a universal influenza vaccine: volunteer virus challenge studies in quarantine to speed the development and subsequent licensing
Authors: Oxford John S.
Published: April 2013

There are now more than 5 experimental vaccine formulations which induce T and B cell immunity towards the internally situated virus proteins matrix (M1 and M2e) and nucleoprotein (NP), and towards stem and stalk regions of the HA which have a shared antigenic structure amongst many of the 17 influenza A virus sub types. Such ‘universal vaccines’ could be used, at least in theory, as a prophylactic stockpile vaccine for newly emerged epidemic and novel pandemic influenza A viruses or as a supplement to conventional HA/NA vaccines. My own laboratory has approached the problem from the clinical viewpoint by identifying CD4+ cells which are present in influenza infected volunteers who resist influenza infection. We have established precisely which peptides in M and NP proteins react with these immune CD4 cells. These experimental vaccines induce immunity in animal models but with a single exception no data have been published on protection against influenza virus infection in humans. The efficacy of the latter vaccine is based on vaccinia virus (MVA) as a carrier and was analyzed in a quarantine unit. Given the absence of induced HI antibody in the new universal vaccines a possible licensing strategy is a virus challenge model in quarantine whereby healthy volunteers can be immunized with the new vaccine and thereafter deliberately infected and clinical signs recorded alongside quantities of virus excreted and compared with unvaccinated controls.
Overview of methods for comparing the efficacies of drugs in the absence of head‐to‐head clinical trial data
Authors: Kim Hansoo , Gurrin Lyle , Ademi Zanfina , Liew Danny
Published: April 2013

In most therapeutic areas, multiple drug options are increasingly becoming available, but there is often a lack of evidence from head‐to‐head clinical trials that allows for direct comparison of the efficacy and/or safety of one drug vs. another. This review provides an introduction to, and overview of, common methods used for comparing drugs in the absence of head‐to‐head clinical trial evidence. Naïve direct comparisons are in most instances inappropriate and should only be used for exploratory purposes and when no other options are possible. Adjusted indirect comparisons are currently the most commonly accepted method and use links through one or more common comparators. Mixed treatment comparisons (MTCs) use Bayesian statistical models to incorporate all available data for a drug, even data that are not relevant to the comparator drug. MTCs reduce uncertainty but have not yet been widely accepted by researchers, nor drug regulatory and reimbursement authorities. All indirect analyses are based on the same underlying assumption as meta‐analyses, namely that the study populations in the trials being compared are similar.
Carbohydrate as Fuel for Foraging, Resource Defense and Colony Growth – a Long‐term Experiment with the Plant‐ant Crematogaster nigriceps
Authors: Rudolph Kathleen P. , Palmer Todd M.
Published: April 2013

Mismatches in nutrient composition (e.g., protein, carbohydrates, lipids, etc.) between consumers and the resources they depend on can have ecological consequences, affecting traits from individual behavior to community structure. In many terrestrial ecosystems, ants depend on plant and insect mutualist partners for carbohydrate‐rich rewards that are nutritionally unbalanced (especially in protein) relative to colony needs. Despite imbalances, many carbohydrate‐feeding ant mutualists dominate communities—both competitively and numerically—raising the question of whether excess carbohydrates ‘fuel’ colony acquisition of limiting resources and growth. In a 10‐month field study, we manipulated carbohydrate access for the obligate plant‐ant Crematogaster nigriceps to test whether carbohydrate availability could be mechanistically linked to ecological dominance via heightened territory defense, increased protein foraging, and colony growth. Supplementation increased aggressive defense of hosts after only two weeks, but was also strongly linked to variation in rainfall. Contrary to predictions, we did not find that supplemented colonies increased protein foraging. Instead, colonies with reduced carbohydrate access discovered a greater proportion of protein baits, suggesting that carbohydrate deprivation increases foraging intensity. We found no significant effect of carbohydrate manipulation on brood or alate production. These results contrast with findings from several recent short‐term and lab‐based nutrient supplementation studies and highlight the role of seasonality and biotic context in colony‐foraging and reproductive decisions. These factors may be essential to understanding the consequences of carbohydrate access in natural plant‐ant systems.
Screening for BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations among French‐Canadian breast cancer cases attending an outpatient clinic in Montreal
Authors: Ghadirian P , Robidoux A , Nassif E , Martin G , Potvin C , Patocskai E , Younan R , Larouche N , Venne A , Zhang S , Royer R , Narod SA
Published: April 2013

Study subjects were French‐Canadian women with ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) or invasive breast cancer (incident or prevalent) who were treated and followed at a single breast cancer clinic affiliated with the Research Center of University of Montreal (CRCHUM), who were either aged less than 50 years at diagnosis or who were 50 years or older and with at least two affected first‐ or second‐degree relatives. Subjects were tested for six founder mutations (three in BRCA1 and three in BRCA2); 1093 eligible cases were tested. Of these, 56 women (5.1%) were mutation carriers, including 43 BRCA2 carriers and 13 BRCA1 carriers. The prevalence of mutations was 5.3% for unselected women aged 50 and less and was 4.6% for familial cases over age 50. The prevalence of mutations was 3.3% for women with DCIS and was 5.3% for women with invasive cancer. It is rational to offer genetic testing to all French‐Canadian women diagnosed recently or in the past with either DCIS or invasive breast cancer before age 50 or with familial breast cancer above age 50.
Managing renal transplant ischemia reperfusion injury: novel therapies in the pipeline
Authors: Powell Jaclyn T. , Tsapepas Demetra S. , Martin Spencer T. , Hardy Mark A. , Ratner Lloyd E.
Published: April 2013

Ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) is an early, non‐specific inflammatory response that follows perfusion of warm blood into a cold asanguinous organ following transplantation. The occurrence of IRI may have a pivotal impact on acute and long‐term renal allograft function. Initially, IRI contributes to delayed graft function (DGF), a term typically defined as the need for dialysis within one wk after renal transplantation. DGF frequently leads to prolonged hospital stay, increased healthcare costs, and potentially worse prognosis. Strategies to prevent IRI have so far been fairly limited, poorly defined, inadequately studied, and mostly anecdotal. The purpose of this review is to summarize the existing and novel therapies, which may mitigate IRI in renal transplantation. Agents currently in the pipeline include: Diannexin, which reduces endothelial cell injury by shielding phosphatidylserine; YSPSL, which mimics the binding portion of P‐selectin glycoprotein ligand‐1 to competitively inhibit translocation of P‐selectin and recruitment of polymorphonuclear leukocytes to the surface of endothelial cells; and I5NP, a synthetic small interfering ribonucleic acid that results in the inhibition of p53 expression. These agents represent an exciting frontier in transplant pharmacotherapy; they are in various phases of investigation and may have broader benefits in reducing complications of DGF.
Lethal post‐endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography pancreatitis following fully covered metal stent placement in distal biliary obstruction due to unresectable cholangiocarcinoma
Authors: Itoi Takao , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Tanaka Reina , Ikeuchi Nobuhito , Sofuni Atsushi
Published: April 2013

Biliary self‐expandable metallic stent (SEMS) is the preferred and first‐line therapy for unresectable malignant biliary obstruction. To date, several reports have revealed the relatively high incidence of acute complications such as pancreatitis and cholecystitis due to mechanical stent compression. In the present case, we encountered fatal pancreatitis following fully covered metal stent placement. An 85‐year‐old man had middle bile duct strictures due to cholangiocarcinoma. A 10‐mm diameter fully covered SEMS was placed across the papilla for biliary decompression. Laboratory data and physical evidence the following day revealed acute pancreatitis. Therefore, antibiotics and protein degeneration enzyme inhibitors were given. However, hiscondition did not improve. Two days after the procedure, we removed the stent and returned him to his original hospital. Serum amylase level decreased below 400 mg/dL 6 h after the procedure. However, the acute pancreatitis worsened. Although we treated the patient in the intensive care unit, he died 32 days after the second admission.
Technique of reintervention for stent dysfunction in patients with malignant hilar biliary stricture
Authors: Okabe Yoshinobu , Ishida Yusuke , Ushijima Tomoyuki , Sugiyama Gen , Sata Michio
Published: April 2013

At present, the endoscopic approach is the most commonly adopted method for stenting in patients with unresectable malignant hilar biliary stricture. This procedure is important, as it determines the quality of life and prognosis of the patient. Regarding the quality of the stent material, self‐expandable metallic stents (SEMS) are expected to show longer‐term stent patency than plastic stents (PS), and their use as devices of first choice has been increasing. However, complications such as stent occlusion due to tumor ingrowth or biliary sludge formation occur at a considerably high frequency, necessitating reintervention in a considerable number of patients. In the case of dysfunction of an implanted PS, the stent is removed, and the lumen ofthe bile duct is cleaned, followed by placement of a new stent. In the event of dysfunction of a SEMS, cleaning of the lumen of the SEMS and placement of a second stent (PS is preferable) are carried out. Nevertheless, the results have not been entirely gratifying. Development of SEMS or PS suited to multidisciplinary treatment that would enable uncomplicated reintervention is anticipated.
Barrett's esophageal cancer in which magnifying narrow‐band imaging was useful for diagnosing extension under the squamous epithelium
Authors: Koike Tomoyuki , Endo Hiroyuki , Nakagawa Kenichiro , Iijima Katsunori , Shimosegawa Tooru
Published: April 2013

A 36‐year‐old man complained of heartburn. Gastrointestinal endoscopies showed a reddish and slightly depressed lesion in the right‐anterior wall of the esophagogastric junction. With white light imaging, the area of the adenocarcinoma under the squamous epithelium was difficult to detect, but a slightly flat, elevated lesion appeared in the area of adenocarcinoma under the squamous epithelium. With narrow‐band imaging (NBI) in the area of the Barrett's esophageal cancer under the squamous epithelium, a slight, brownish change could be observed. In addition, with the magnifying technique, irregular mesh‐like vessels were observed, suggesting the presence of differentiatedadenocarcinoma under the squamous epithelium. The lesion was resected en bloc by endoscopic submucosal dissection, and Barrett's esophageal cancer under the squamous epithelium was histologically confirmed. In this case, NBI with magnifying endoscopy was very useful to diagnose the extension of Barrett's esophageal cancer under the squamous epithelium.
Recurrence after curative surgical resection of T1 rectal cancer: A report of two cases
Authors: Yamaguchi Yuichiro , Hotta Kinichi , Imai Kenichiro , Kakushma Naomi , Ono Hiroyuki
Published: April 2013

Recent advances in endoscopic diagnosis and treatment techniques have led to a marked increase in the detection and endoscopic treatment of early colorectal cancers (CRC). According to the Japanese Society for Cancer of the Colon and Rectum (JSCCR) guidelines, T1‐CRC with a negative vertical margin, well‐ or moderately differentiated adenocarcinoma, no evidence of vascular or lymphatic invasion, and depth of invasion <1000 μm are considered to have a low risk of lymph node metastasis. However, T1‐CRC with any of these risk factors are considered to have ahigh risk of lymph node metastasis. T1‐CRC is considered to have a good prognosis if additional surgery is carried out. We experienced two cases of recurrence despite curative surgical resection of T1 rectal cancer.
Infrared laser‐induced gene expression in targeted single cells of Caenorhabditis elegans
Authors: Suzuki Motoshi , Toyoda Naoya , Shimojou Masaki , Takagi Shin
Published: April 2013

Since the dawn of transgenic technology some 40 years ago, biologists have sought ways to manipulate, at their discretion, the expression of particular genes of interest in living organisms. The infrared laser‐evoked gene operator (IR‐LEGO) is a recently developed system for inducing gene expression in living organisms in a targeted fashion. It exploits the highly efficient capacity of an infrared laser for heating cells, to provide a high level of gene expression driven by heat‐inducible promoters. By irradiating living specimens with a laser under a microscope, heat shock responses can be induced in individual cells, thereby inducing a particular gene, under the control of a heat shock promoter, in specifically targeted cells. In this review we first summarize previous attempts to drive transgene expression in organisms by using heat shock promoters, and then introduce the basic principle of the IR‐LEGO system, and its applications.
Hyperglycaemia promotes cerebral barrier dysfunction through activation of protein kinase C‐β
Authors: Shao B. , Bayraktutan U.
Published: April 2013

Aim

To examine whether protein kinase C (PKC) and associated downstream mechanisms are involved in hyperglycaemia (HG)‐evoked blood–brain barrier (BBB) damage.

Methods

The activities of total PKC (Peptag assay), NADPH oxidase (lucigenin assay) and matrix metalloproteinase‐2 (MMP‐2; gelatin zymography) were measured in human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC) exposed to normoglycaemia (5.5 mM) or HG (25 mM) using the specific assays indicated in parentheses. The integrity and function of the in vitro models of human BBB were assessed by measurements of transendothelial electrical resistance and paracellular flux of permeability markers, respectively. Occludin protein expression was studied by immunoblotting.

Results

HG significantly compromised the BBB integrity and enhanced total PKC activity to which increases in PKC‐β and PKC‐βII isoforms contributed the most. Elevations in NADPH oxidase and MMP‐2 activities and decreases in occludin levels contributed to barrier dysfunction. Selective inhibition of PKC‐β isoform prevented the changes observed in occludin expression and the aforementioned enzyme activities and thus effectively preserved barrier integrity. Similarly, apocynin, a specific NADPH oxidase inhibitor, also effectively neutralized the effects of HG on barrier integrity, MMP‐2 activity, occludin expression and PKC‐β activity.

Conclusion

HG promotes cerebral‐barrier dysfunction through activation of PKC‐β and consequent stimulations of oxidative stress and tight junction dissolution.
Impact of treated/untreated traumatic dental injuries on quality of life among Brazilian schoolchildren
Authors: Ramos‐Jorge Joana , Paiva Saul M. , Tataounoff Juliana , Pordeus Isabela A. , Marques Leandro S. , Ramos‐Jorge Maria L.
Published: April 2013

Background/Aim

The joint evaluation of oral health‐related quality of life and traumatic dental injury (TDI) is an important tool for setting priorities in public oral health programs. The purpose of the present study was to compare the impact of treated TDI, untreated TDI, and absence of TDI on the quality of life of schoolchildren aged 11–14 years.

Material and methods

A cross‐sectional study was carried out with 668 schoolchildren from the city of Diamantina, Brazil. The clinical examination involved the determination of the presence and type of TDI based on the criteria proposed by O'Brien. Malocclusion was evaluated using the criteria of the Dental Aesthetic Index, and dental caries was diagnosed using the DMFT/dmft index. The impact of TDI on quality of life was assessed using the Child Oral Impact on Daily Performances (Child‐OIDP). The outcome was the absence (Child‐OIDP = 0) or presence (Child‐OIDP ≥ 1) of impact on quality of life.

Results

The prevalence of TDI was 34.3%. Schoolchildren with untreated TDI experienced a greater impact on eating (P = 0.016) and smiling (P < 0.001) in comparison with those without TDI. No significant differences were found in the Child‐OIDP score between schoolchildren with treated TDI and those without trauma. The unadjusted and adjusted results of the Poisson regression analysis of the Child‐OIDP demonstrated that schoolchildren with untreated TDI were more likely to experience an impact on ‘eating and enjoying food’, ‘smiling and showing teeth’, and ‘overall score’.

Conclusions

Untreated TDI was associated with a negative impact on the quality of life of schoolchildren, whereas treated TDI and absence of TDI were not associated with impact on quality of life.
Dental coping strategies, general anxiety, and depression among adult patients with dental anxiety but with different dental‐attendance patterns
Authors: Bernson Jenny M. , Elfström Magnus L. , Hakeberg Magnus
Published: April 2013

The aim of the present study was to investigate dental coping strategies, general anxiety, and depression in relation to regularity of dental treatment among persons with either regular dental care or phobic avoidance, whilst controlling for sociodemographic factors. Psychometric questionnaires on dental anxiety, dental coping strategies, general anxiety, and depression were delivered to 263 adult patients with dental phobic avoidance behavior who were seeking help from a specialized dental fear clinic and to 141 adult patients with dental anxiety who were receiving regular dental care from various public dental clinics. The results showed that the levels of dental and general anxiety and of depression were significantly higher among irregular attendees compared with regular attendees. Irregular attendees admitted fewer adaptive coping strategies. Predictive of irregular dental care were gender, dental anxiety, general anxiety, and the nonuse of the coping strategy ‘optimism’. This study further confirms earlier preliminary results that the use of optimistic thinking is predictive for regular dental attendance habits and that male gender is a risk factor for irregular attendance. Moreover, this study adds that a high level of general anxiety indicates a higher risk for irregular dental care.
Remodeling of dendrites and spines in the C1q knockout model of genetic epilepsy
Authors: Ma Yunyong , Ramachandran Anu , Ford Naomi , Parada Isabel , Prince David A.
Published: April 2013

Purpose

To determine whether developmental synaptic pruning defects in epileptic C1q‐knockout (KO) mice are accompanied by postsynaptic abnormalities in dendrites and/or spines.

Methods

Immunofluorescence staining was performed on biocytin‐filled layer Vb pyramidal neurons in sensorimotor cortex. Basal dendritic arbors and their spines were reconstructed with NEUROLUCIDA software, and their morphologic characteristics were quantitated in Neuroexplorer.

Key Findings

Seven to nine completely filled pyramidal neurons were analyzed from the wild‐type (WT) and C1q KO groups. Compared to WT controls, KO mice showed significant structural modifications in their basal dendrites including (1) higher density of dendritic spines (0.60 ± 0.03/μm vs. 0.49 ± 0.03/μm dendritic length in WT, p < 0.05); (2) remarkably increased occurrence of thin spines (0.26 ± 0.02/μm vs. 0.14 ± 0.02/μm dendritic length in control, p < 0.01); (3) longer dendritic length (2,680 ± 159 μm vs. 2,119 ± 108 μm in control); and (4) increased branching (22.6 ± 1.9 vs. 16.2 ± 1.3 in WT at 80 μm from soma center, p < 0.05; 12.4 ± 1.4 vs. 8.2 ± 0.6 in WT at 120 μm from soma center, respectively, p < 0.05). Dual immunolabeling demonstrated the expression of putative glutamate receptor 2 (GluR2) on some thin spines. These dendritic alterations are likely postsynaptic structural consequences of failure of synaptic pruning in the C1q KO mice.

Significance

Failure to prune excessive excitatory synapses in C1q KO mice is a likely mechanism underlying abnormalities in postsynaptic dendrites, including increased branching and alterations in spine type and density. It is also possible that seizure activity contributes to these abnormalities. These structural abnormalities, together with increased numbers of excitatory synapses, likely contribute to epileptogenesis in C1q KO mice.
The Last Bite of the BITs—Supremacy of EU Law versus Investment Treaty Arbitration
Authors: Miron Smaranda
Published: April 2013

According to Article 267 TFEU, national courts of the EU Member States can (and sometimes must) ask for a preliminary ruling from the Court of Justice on the interpretation and application of Community law, including international treaties and recommendations, and on the validity of Community secondary legislation. In this way, it is ensured that EU citizens are treated equally throughout the Union. However, this is not applicable when it comes to arbitral proceedings, be they commercial or investment arbitrations. The Court does not accept references for preliminary rulings from arbitral tribunals. For this reason, respondent states in international arbitral proceedings have argued that arbitration and EU law are utterly incompatible. In their submissions as respondents in arbitral proceedings, EU Member States have argued that, as a result of EU accession, bilateral investment treaties (BITs) have been automatically terminated. In subsidiary, they sometimes claim that, due to their incompatibility with EU law, BITs cannot apply. But if BITs are not applicable anymore, there are few remedies left for investors within the EU.
Evaluating the work of Australia's Family Relationship Centres: Evidence from the first 5 years
Authors: Moloney Lawrie , Qu Lixia , Weston Ruth , Hand Kelly
Published: April 2013

Family Relationship Centres (FRCs) have been described as a centerpiece of Australia's 2006 family law reforms. This paper places these centres in the larger context of the reforms and their commitment to providing community‐based family services in the family law area. The paper also examines the empirical evidence regarding FRCs' use and effectiveness. It notes that while the objectives and intentions of FRCs place considerable emphasis on strengthening family relationships and assisting families to stay together, the centres themselves have only a modest level of direct involvement with intact families. FRCs tend to have strong links with other community‐based family services, many of whom are more engaged with intact families; but it is difficult to gauge their effectiveness in this area. Most FRCs' direct services are aimed at separating families and most of that work involves family dispute resolution (family mediation) and associated services such as screening and assessment and the provision of relevant information. A substantial majority of clients who attend FDR at an FRC reach agreement about their parenting arrangements either at FDR or subsequent to attending FDR. These agreements also tend to hold up in the medium term. A majority of parents believe that at FDR, the child(ren)'s needs were taken into account; the parenting agreement worked for the child(ren); and the parenting agreement worked for them. A substantial proportion of FRC clients come from families that have experienced family violence or other dysfunctional behaviours, and such behaviours reduce the chances of resolving parenting disputes. The paper concludes by suggesting that having been created mainly as a default alternative to legal interventions and court processes, it is likely that a major future strength of FRCs will lie in their emerging capacity to work constructively not only with other relationship services and networks, but with family lawyers and the courts.
Baltimore City's Model Court: Professional Stakeholders' Experience with Baltimore City's One Family, One Judge Docketing*
Authors: Shdaimah Corey , Summers Alicia
Published: April 2013

The one family, one judge model is a recommended “best practice” adopted in jurisdictions across the country. This article reports findings from a survey of professional stakeholders (N = 165) in Baltimore regarding their perception of a recently implemented one family, one judge model in their jurisdiction. Perceptions of the one family, one judge practice are mostly positive; stakeholders believe that it improves the fairness and consistency of decision‐making. Stakeholder concerns focused on implementation, scheduling, and familiarity among parties. Based on our findings, we highlight the importance of ongoing efforts to reduce potential bias, to improve scheduling practices, and to increase inter‐ and intra‐agency coordination and communication to ensure that the one family, one judge model lives up to its promise while mitigating potential concerns.

Key Points for the Family Court Community

Most stakeholders are satisfied with the one family, one judge docketing as implemented in Baltimore City and believe that it has improved efficiency and decision‐making.

In planning and implementing one family, one judge docketing, jurisdictions must take into account logistical considerations that can impact the program feasibility, acceptance, and success. These include fiscal resources, local regulations, staffing, and workplace structures.

Communication and good relationships among stakeholders and agencies can help facilitate implementation of model court practices such as one family, one judge docketing.

Stakeholders voiced mixed concerns regarding the fairness of one family, one judge. Some stakeholders believed that the one family, one judge model potentially or actually exacerbated judicial bias; whereas others believed that the model reduced judicial bias. Understanding these concerns is important in directing future research and practice.
NAD and ADP‐ribose metabolism in mitochondria
Authors: Dölle Christian , Rack Johannes G.M. , Ziegler Mathias
Published: April 2013

Mitochondrial metabolism is intimately connected to the universal coenzyme NAD. In addition to its role in redox reactions of energy transduction, NAD serves as substrate in regulatory reactions that lead to its degradation. Importantly, all types of the known NAD‐consuming signalling reactions have been reported to take place in mitochondria. These reactions include the generation of second messengers, as well as post‐translational protein modifications such as ADP‐ribosylation and protein deacetylation. Therefore, the availability and redox state of NAD emerged as important factors in the regulation of mitochondrial metabolism. Molecular mechanisms and targets of mitochondrial NAD‐dependent protein deacetylation and mono‐ADP‐ribosylation have been established, whereas poly‐ADP‐ribosylation and NAD‐derived messenger generation in the organelles await in‐depth characterization. In this review, we highlight the major NAD‐dependent reactions occurring within mitochondria and describe their metabolic and regulatory functions. We also discuss the metabolic fates of the NAD‐degradation products, nicotinamide and ADP‐ribose, and how the mitochondrial NAD pool is restored.
Insulin receptor substrate‐2 is expressed in kidney epithelium and up‐regulated in diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Hookham Michelle B. , O'Donovan Helen C. , Church Rachel H. , Mercier‐Zuber Annie , Luzi Lucilla , Curran Simon P. , Carew Rosemarie M. , Droguett Alejandra , Mezzano Sergio , Schubert Markus , White Morris F. , Crean John K. , Brazil Derek P.
Published: April 2013

Diabetic nephropathy (DN) is a progressive fibrotic condition that may lead to end‐stage renal disease and kidney failure. Transforming growth factor‐β1 and bone morphogenetic protein‐7 (BMP7) have been shown to induce DN‐like changes in the kidney and protect the kidney from such changes, respectively. Recent data identified insulin action at the level of the nephron as a crucial factor in the development and progression of DN. Insulin requires a family of insulin receptor substrate (IRS) proteins for its physiological effects, and many reports have highlighted the role of insulin and IRS proteins in kidney physiology and disease. Here, we observed IRS2 expression predominantly in the developing and adult kidney epithelium in mouse and human. BMP7 treatment of human kidney proximal tubule epithelial cells (HK‐2 cells) increases IRS2 transcription. In addition, BMP7 treatment of HK‐2 cells induces an electrophoretic shift in IRS2 migration on SDS/PAGE, and increased association with phosphatidylinositol‐3‐kinase, probably due to increased tyrosine/serine phosphorylation. In a cohort of DN patients with a range of chronic kidney disease severity, IRS2 mRNA levels were elevated approximately ninefold, with the majority of IRS2 staining evident in the kidney tubules in DN patients. These data show that IRS2 is expressed in the kidney epithelium and may play a role in the downstream protective events triggered by BMP7 in the kidney. The specific up‐regulation of IRS2 in the kidney tubules of DN patients also indicates a novel role for IRS2 as a marker and/or mediator of human DN progression.

Structured digital abstract

IRS2 physically interacts with p85α by anti bait coimmunoprecipitation (View interaction)
Empirical Validation of Reading Proficiency Guidelines
Authors: Clifford Ray , Cox Troy L.
Published: April 2013

The validation of ability scales describing multidimensional skills is always challenging, but not impossible. This study applies a multistage, criterion‐referenced approach that uses a framework of aligned texts and reading tasks to explore the validity of the ACTFL and related reading proficiency guidelines. Rasch measurement and statistical analyses of data generated in three separate language studies confirm a significant difference in reading difficulty between the proficiency levels tested.