bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Psychological Disturbances in Indian Children with Atopic Eczema
Authors: Sarkar Rashmi , Raj Lok , Kaur Harprit , Basu Srikanta , Kanwar Amrinder Jit , Jain Rakesh Kumar
Published: July 2014

Although the link between atopic dermatitis (AD) and emotional disturbance is well known, there have been only a few studies assessing the extent of these disturbances in affected children and the problems experienced by their parents. Furthermore, these studies are mostly from western countries, where atopic dermatitis is seen in a more severe form than in India. The purpose of this study was to determine whether there is an excess of psychological disorders in Indian children with AD as compared to healthy controls and whether their mothers showed higher levels of emotional or mental distress than a comparison group. Twenty‐two children, aged 3–9 years, with atopic dermatitis, twenty age and sex matched controls, and their mothers were selected for the study. The personalities of the mothers were assessed from a standard and valid questionnaire, the Hindi adaptation of Personality Trait Inventory, which explored nine areas of the maternal personality and mental distress as well as negative traits of some of these. The two groups were compared using the Chi‐square test. To assess the psychopathology of the children, the mothers were made to answer parts of a valid, well‐developed questionnaire, the Childhood Psychopathology Measurement Schedule, which enabled the assessment of the following factors: low intelligence with behaviour disorders, conduct disorders, anxiety, and depression. The means of each factor in both the groups were compared using the Students' t‐test. Out of all the maternal personality traits, an increased number of mothers of affected children, 13 (59%) were found to be submissive as compared to the mothers of the controls i.e. 2 (10%), which was statistically significant (p<0.01). The children with AD had a higher frequency of low intelligence with behaviour disorders (5.9 ± 2.9) as compared to controls and also of conduct disorders (2.1 ± 1.4), which were both statistically significant (p<0.01). The results of this pilot study, although small in number, suggest that increased psychological disorders are observed in Indian children with AD as compared to controls, despite the fact that the disease is of a milder variety in this country as compared to its western counterparts. More mothers of children with AD were submissive, which could contribute to the psychological disorders and maintenance of eczema in the children. We suggest that children with AD may benefit if such psychological dimensions are considered as a part of their treatment.
Neutrophilic Dermatosis of the Dorsal Hand
Authors: Bilu Donna , Kouba David J. , Mamelak Adam J. , Kazin Rebecca A. , Nousari Carlos H.
Published: July 2014

Neutrophilic dermatosis of the dorsal hands (NDDH) was originally described as pustular vasculitis (PV) of the hands. Recent debate focuses on categorizing this disorder in the family of neutrophilic dermatoses (ND), as opposed to a primary vasculitis. We present a case of NDDH with clinical and histologic features consistent with ND, and discuss the major concerns for this disease's reclassification.
Punctate Palmoplantar Keratoderma with Pigmentary Lesions on the Dorsa of Feet and Ankles: Successful Treatment with a Combination of Low‐Dose Oral Etretinate and Topical Calcipotriol
Authors: Horikoshi Mariko , Kuroda Kei , Tajima Shingo
Published: July 2014

We describe a patient with typical keratotic lesions of punctate palmoplantar keratoderma on the hands and feet and unique pigmentary lesions on the dorsa of the feet and ankles. A combination of low‐dose oral etretinate (10 mg/day) and calcipotriol ointment 0.005% resulted in a complete regression, whereas pigmentary lesions on the dorsa of the feet and ankles did not change during the treatment.
Topical Imiquimod 5% Cream in External Anogenital Warts: A Randomized, Double‐Blind, Placebo‐Controlled Study
Authors: Arican Ozer , Guneri Funda , Bilgic Kaan , Karaoglu Aynur
Published: July 2014

The complete treatment of anogenital warts has not been obtained with any combination of methods; therefore, new methods are still under investigation. In this study the activity and side effects of imiquimod 5% cream were investigated. The study group consisted of 23 male and 11 female volunteers and the control group of 9 male and 2 female volunteers. Patients applied the cream three times a week, every other day in the evenings for a period of 12 weeks. After the treatment, patients were regularly monitored for six months for recurrences. At the end of the study, 23 (69.7%) patients (all of females and 54.5% of males) in the study group displayed a complete clearance, 9 patients displayed 50–90% clearance and 1 patient displayed less than 50% clearance. In the control group, only 1 patient displayed a complete clearance, 1 patient displayed 50–90% clearance, and the other 8 patients showed no alteration in the lesions. These results were statistically significantly different (p<0.01). In 15 patients in the study group, no side effects were reported; the most frequently seen side effects were erythema and erosion. In six patients that were observed for a period of six months, recurrences occurred. Imiquimod 5% cream is a topically applied medicament that should be considered as an effective and reliable medical option in the treatment of anogenital warts.
Lack of Response to Isotretinoin in Annular Elastolytic Giant Cell Granuloma
Authors: Basak Pinar Y. , Icke Ilkay , Akkaya Vahide B. , Basak Kayhan
Published: July 2014

Annular elastolytic giant cell granuloma is a rare disease characterized by annular configurated lesions with typical histopathologic findings. We report a case of annular elastolytic giant cell granuloma in a 50‐year‐old male patient. Treatment modalities for this disease are limited and mostly unsatisfactory, although isotretinoin was found to be effective in a single case. However, systemic isotretinoin treatment of 12 weeks' duration was of no benefit in the presented case.
Eosinophilic Pustular Folliculitis (Ofuji's Disease) in a Patient with Silicone Tissue Augmentation
Authors: Wong Tak‐Wah , Tsai Ya‐Ming , Lee J. Yu‐Yun , Hsu Shih‐Tsung , Sheu Hamm‐Ming
Published: July 2014

Eosinophilic pustular folliculitis (EPF) (Ofuji's disease) is a rare dermatosis of unknown etiology. We describe a 45‐year‐old Chinese woman who developed EPF on her face seven years after having nose and chin augmentation with subcutaneous silicone injections.
Acquired Reactive Perforating Collagenosis in a Patient with Lung Fibrosis
Authors: Tsuboi Hiromi , Mukuno Akira , Sato Naoya , Katsuoka Kensei , Yanase Nobuo
Published: July 2014

Reactive perforating collagenosis (RPC) is a rare disorder characterized by the transepidermal elimination of altered collagen. The inherited form of RPC begins in early childhood, but acquired reactive perforating collagenosis (ARPC) begins in adult life. ARPC is associated with diabetes mellitus, renal disease, and malignancy. ARPC with lung fibrosis has not previously been reported in the literature, and the relationship between ARPC and lung fibrosis has not been studied. The etiological relationship between the two disorders appears to be uncertain. Although their association in this case could be due to chance, it may be due to the transforming growth factor β abnormalities seen in both diseases. In this report, we describe a case of ARPC with lung fibrosis and propose an etiological association between the two diseases.
Asymmetrical Nonscalp Aplasia Cutis Congenita: A Case Report
Authors: Atik Bekir , Tan Onder , Bayram Irfan , Tuncer Oguz , Kirimi Ercan
Published: July 2014

Aplasia cutis congenita or congenital absence of the skin is a rare and serious congenital disease; its etiopathogenesis remains unclear. In this condition, localized or widespread areas of skin are absent at birth. A newborn suffering from an unusual aplasia cutis congenita located asymmetrically on the nonscalp, without blistering, was presented. This patient was completely healed with conservative treatment.
Malassezia Folliculitis on the Scalp of a 12‐Year‐Old Healthy Child
Authors: Aytimur Derya , Sengöz Vildan
Published: July 2014

Malassezia folliculitis is a condition chracterized by itchy follicular papules and pustules with erythema. Malassezia yeasts are the pathogens in this condition. It is mainly located on the back, shoulders, and chest. Presented here is a 12‐year‐old boy with malassezia folliculitis on the scalp. The case was found to be worthy of presentation because it rarely occurs in childhood and is rarely located on the scalp.
Subcutaneous Solitary Fibrous Tumor
Authors: Yoshida Yuichi , Kubota Yumiko , Yamaguchi Takahiro , Iwasaki Hiroshi , Nakayama Juichiro
Published: July 2014

We describe a unique case of subcutaneous solitary fibrous tumor (SFT) in a 56‐year‐old female patient. The patient had been aware of a painless soft mass in her back for ten years. The lesion was surgically excised. Histological examination revealed that the well‐defined mass was composed of a proliferation of spindle‐shaped fibroblastic cells and polygonal cells embedded in a fibrous matrix corresponding to the so‐called “patternless pattern”. A prominent pericytomatous pattern (hemangiopericytoma‐like structures), focal myxoid changes, and thick hyalinized collagen fibers were also observed. Immunohistochemical stainings for CD34 and bcl‐2 were positive in the tumor cells. These features are compatible with SFT. We suggest that SFT should be included in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous spindle cell tumors.
Langerhans Cell Histiocytosis Involving the Skin of an Elderly Woman: A Satisfactory Remission with Oral Prednisolone Alone
Authors: Imanaka Aiko , Tarutani Masahito , Itoh Haruyasu , Kira Masahiro , Itami Satoshi
Published: July 2014

Langerhans cell histiocytosis (LCH) is a disorder characterized by neoplastic proliferation of Langerhans cells that rarely involves the skin in adults. A 74‐year‐old woman presented with a fourteen year history of eosinophilic granuloma and bone involvement caused by LCH. She had received three combination therapy courses of curettage and radiation since 1987 and had remained free of LCH signs for seven years, after which she started to notice brown nodules on her left leg. Biopsy specimens taken from the lesions showed massive proliferations of large histiocytic cells. Immunoperoxidase stainings for CD1a and S‐100 protein were positive. Electron microscopy identified Birbeck granules in the cytoplasm of the atypical Langerhans cells. Treatment with oral prednisolone alone has resulted in the patient remaining in complete remission for 12 months.
Histologic Progression of B16 F10 Metastatic Melanoma in C57BL/6 Mice Over a Six Week Time Period: Distant Metastases before Local Growth
Authors: Eberting Cheryl Lee D. , Shrayer David P. , Butmarc Janet , Falanga Vincent
Published: July 2014

B16F10 murine metastatic melanoma in the tails of C57BL/6 mice after subcutaneous injection is a well‐established model. However, the histologic progression from injected cells to established local growth of melanoma has not been studied systematically. We therefore have investigated the histologic changes and growth of B16F10 melanoma at the injection site over a six‐week time period. One million B16F10 melanoma cells were injected subcutaneously into the dorsal aspect of tails of C57/BL6 mice. Mice were sacrificed at zero, 12, 24, 48, 72 and 96 hours, and at one, two, three, four, five and six weeks. Sections were stained with Hematoxylin and Eosin and immunostained with antibodies to S100. Beginning at time zero, melanoma cells were detected between the dermis and the myofascial bundle of the tail. At week four, distant metastases were clinically evident in the inguinal region, though injection site tumors did not become evident until week six. Histological analysis showed melanoma cells at the injecion site at all time periods and no injection site tumor until week six. Indeed, the injection site tumors arose two weeks after distant metastases were clinically apparent. A progression of S100 positivity was also observed. S100 immunostaining was negative in all injection site of B16F10 cells until the cells underwent a morphologic change from small and monomorphic at the injection site, to large, pleomorphic cells at week six in the clinically evident injection site tumors. Inguinal metastases were also S100 positive at week four, though injection site cells were still S100 negative. We conclude that in this particular established model for melanoma, local growth at the injection site may occur after the development of regional metastases. This may prove to be a good model for investigation of local growth of tumor cells and their interaction with metastatic lesions.
Successful Treatment of Pulmonary Metastasis and Local Recurrence of Angiosarcoma with Docetaxel
Authors: Isogai Rieko , Kawada Akira , Aragane Yoshinori , Tezuka Tadashi
Published: July 2014

Angiosarcoma of the face and scalp of the elderly frequently recurs locally, metastasizes early despite various treatments, and has a poor prognosis. We describe a patient who had angiosarcoma of the scalp with pulmonary metastasis. Local recurrence occurred after excision and local and arterial administration of IL‐2. A weekly administration method of docetaxel was therefore selected, resulting in complete remission of the pulmonary metastasis and a partial response of the local recurrence. This favorable clinical outcome in our case suggests that docetaxel therapy may be an option for the treatment of angiosarcoma of the scalp with pulmonary metastasis.
Unilateral Nevoid Telangiectasia and Hyperthyroidism: A New Association or Coincidence?
Authors: Kavak Ayse , Kutluay Lale
Published: July 2014

Telangiectasia and spider angioma were distributed in a unilateral, dermatomal pattern in a female patient. Physical examination and laboratory studies revealed hyperthyroidism. The possible effects of thyroid hormones on formation of vascular nevi were considered to be noteworthy.
Pruritic Papular Eruption Associated with HIV‐Etiopathogenesis Evaluated by Clinical, Immunohistochemical, and Ultrastructural Analysis
Authors: Ramos Heloisa , Pagliari Carla , Takakura Cleusa Fumica Hirata , Sotto Mirian Nacagami , Duarte Maria Irma Seixas
Published: July 2014

Pruritic Papular Eruption with Human Immunodeficiency Virus infection (PPE‐HIV) is characterized by symmetrically distributed papules with pruritus in the skin of patients suffering advanced HIV infection. Although known since 1985, the etiology of this symptomatic dermatitis is unclear. We set out to characterize the phenotype of the infiltrating cells and the cytokine profile in the lesions, as an attempt to contribute to determining its etiopathogenesis. Clinical data and histological, immunohistochemical, and ultrastructural features of skin biopsies from 20 HIV patients with PPE were studied. The histopathological aspects, cell immunophenotypes, and cytokine expressions in the lesions where quantified and compared to perilesional skin, and to those in the clinically normal skin of HIV patients without PPE‐HIV (n=11) and those in normal skin samples from HIV negative individuals (n=10). PPE‐HIV occurred mainly in HIV patients with mean CD4+ counts of 124.6 ± 104 lymphocytes/mm3. Furthermore, their eosinophil counts were significantly increased. The skin lesions were characterized by a predominantly perivascular dermal lymphohistiocytic inflammatory infiltrate. Langerhans cells were normally distributed in the epidermis and seen among the cellular components of dermal infiltrates. The density of CD8+ lymphocytes was elevated and the density of CD4+ cells was reduced in dermal infiltrates. Interleukin 5 was the predominant cytokine in the lesions. Electron microscopic analysis didn't disclose HIV or other infectious agents in the lesions. These results refute the hypothesis of an infectious etiology of PPE‐HIV. CD8+ lymphocytes and Langerhans cells seem to have roles in the pathogenesis of PPE‐HIV. The increased frequency of IL5 was associated with abundant eosinophils in the lesions, suggesting a type Th2 response in this dermatitis.
Sporotrichosis in a Husband and Wife
Authors: Umemoto Naoka , Demitsu Toshio , Osawa Masumi , Toda Sunao , Kawasaki Masako , Mochizuki Takashi
Published: July 2014

Familial occurrence of sporotrichosis is rare. We report two patients, a husband and wife, with sporotrichosis. A 67‐year‐old man and a 63‐year‐old woman, who were farmers, had erythematous plaques and nodules on their faces and his forearm. They had noticed their cutaneous lesions during nearly the same period without any traumatic history. Fragments of biopsy specimens from both of them were submitted for mycological cultures and yielded pure cultures of Sporothrix schenckii (S. schenckii). Restriction fragment length polymorphisms in the mitochondrial DNA of the S. schenckii isolated from the biopsy specimens of their lesions were investigated. The isolates were identified as type 5, which is comparatively abundant in the Kanto area in Japan. The husband was treated with potassium iodide and itraconazole. His wife was treated with itraconazole alone. We failed to isolate a causative fungus from the soil. Our case is the second case in the literature of sporotrichosis in a husband and wife during the same period.
Wall mechanics of the rat bladder. I. Hydrodynamic studies in the time domain
Authors: ANDERSSON S. , KRONSTRÖM A. , TEIEN D.
Published: July 2014

The hydrodynamic properties of the rat bladder in the collection phase were examined by slow continuous and very fast stepwise cystometry in nine rats. In vivo, the fast volume steps induced a reproducible detrusor contraction (type A) which remained after spinal anaesthesia and anticholinergic treatment, but ceased post‐mortally within 1 h. No significant effect of anticholinergic treatment was found on bladder stiffness. The stiffness and relaxation time of the bladder wall increased markedly at large distension. At small and moderate distension, however, the compliances evaluated from continuous and stepwise cystometry were nearly the same, and a linear elastic model of the bladder was applicable. We consider that the rat bladder will be a useful experimental model in further research on viscoelasticity and instability of the bladder wall.
Localization of 125I‐labelled α‐r‐atrial natriuretic peptide in rat tissues by whole‐body and microautoradiography
Authors: TJÄLVE H. , WILANDER E.
Published: July 2014

125I‐labelled α rat atrial natriuretic peptide (28 amino acids: Ser 99–Tyr 126) ([125I]α‐rANP) was given i.v. to Sprague—Dawley rats and the distribution of radioactivity in the tissues was examined by whole‐body and microautoradiography at intervals from 2 min to 4 h after the administration. Inhibition of uptake of the [125I]α‐rANP by simultaneous injection of an excess of non‐labelled α‐rANP was taken as an indication that highly labelled structures in rats injected with [125I]α‐rANP alone are due to an abundance of specific receptors for the peptide. In the rats given only the [125I]α‐rANP a rapid and high radioactivity occurred in the renal glomeruli, the endocardium of the heart ventricles, the endothelium of the processus ciliares of the eyes, the portal vessels and a few larger vessels of the liver, the subcapsular vessels of the adrenal glands and the parenchyma of the lungs. Other tissues showing a distinct, but less prominent, radioactivity were the endocardium of the heart atria, the walls of the great afferent and efferent vessels in the thoracic cavity, the choroid plexuses of the brain ventricles, the pia mater, brown fat, the muscularis layer of the stomach and the intestines, the lamina propria of the villi in the small intestine and the walls of a few small blood vessels in the kidney medulla. The specific labelling was highest at 2 min after injection and then diminished at later intervals.

Several of the labelled structures are localized in tissues involved in the regulation of blood pressure, and fluid and electrolyte homeostasis, processes in which the atrial peptides are considered to play a role. It is suggested that high concentrations of receptors are present at the sites at which the [125I]α‐rANP was strongly localized and that biological effects of the atrial peptides are exerted via these structures.
Renal sympathetic nerve activity during morphine abstinence in sino‐aortic baroreceptor‐denervated rats
Authors: DELLE M. , RICKSTEN S.‐E. , THORÉN P.
Published: July 2014

This study was undertaken to investigate the influence of the arterial baroreceptors on the response of renal sympathetic nerve activity (rSNA) during naloxone‐precipitated morphine abstinence in rats. In chronically baroreceptor‐denervated, morphine‐dependent rats, rSNA, mean arterial pressure (MAP) and heart rate (HR) were studied before and after repeated i.v. bolus doses of naloxone (0.005–5 mg kg−1), during chloralose anaesthesia or in the conscious state.

In the anaesthetized animals, naloxone doses of 0.05–5 mg kg−1 caused a pronounced inhibition of rSNA, reaching a level 61 % below pre‐naloxone activity. This was accompanied by increases in MAP and HR. In the conscious rats, the lower doses of naloxone elicited an initial state of increased somatomotor activity. This was paralleled by slight increases in rSNA and MAP. After 4–5 min, the behavioural excitation faded and was replaced by lethargy. The rats exhibited still signs of withdrawal in the form of piloerection, chromodacryorrhoea and defaecations. Concomitantly, rSNA returned towards the pre‐naloxone level, while MAP showed a sustained increase. The higher naloxone doses exacerbated the hypertension without any further changes in rSNA or in behaviour.

We conclude that the influence of the baroreceptors is of minor significance for the inhibition of rSNA during naloxone‐precipitated abstinence in anaesthetized rats. In conscious, intact rats, however, the baroreceptors seem to contribute to rSNA inhibition since no significance decrease of rSNA occurred in baroreceptor‐denervated rats in the present study. This is in contrast to our previous finding of a marked inhibition of rSNA in rats with intact baroreceptors.
Challenges and Opportunities for Collecting and Sharing Data on Water Governance Institutions
Authors: Gallaher Samuel , Heikkila Tanya
Published: July 2014

This article explores the usability and availability of data needed for investigating the interplay between institutional arrangements (i.e. rules, regulations, policy, compacts, laws) and water resource outcomes. It examines a sample of 33 water governance and water research organizations’ websites for publicly available datasets containing linked information on institutions and water resource conditions or outcomes. While scholars and decision‐makers alike have identified institutional arrangements as an important aspect of improving water governance, their calls for enhancing publicly available institutional data remain unanswered. Within our sample of websites, few datasets link institutions and water resource conditions or outcomes and those that do limit the institutional data to jurisdictional boundaries. More in‐depth and diverse institutional data are required to understand which governance tools and structures do and do not work in varying contexts. This will require funding of strategically located, place‐based data collection efforts, more transparent and replicable data collection instruments, and coding and storage of institutional data for enhanced data integration.
Evaluating Pre‐ and Post‐Fire Peak Discharge Predictions across Western U.S. Watersheds
Authors: Kinoshita Alicia M. , Hogue Terri S. , Napper Carolyn
Published: July 2014

This study reviews five models commonly used in post‐fire hydrologic assessments: the Rowe Countryman and Storey (RCS), United States Geological Survey (USGS) Linear Regression Equations,USDAWindows Technical Release 55 (USDA TR‐55), Wildcat5, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) Hydrologic Modeling System (HEC‐HMS). The models are applied to eight diverse basins in the western United States (U.S.) (Arizona, California, Colorado, Montana, and Washington) affected by wildfires and assessed by input parameters, calibration methods, model constraints, and performance. No one model is versatile enough for application to all study sites. Results show inconsistency between model predictions for events across the sites and less confidence with larger return periods (25‐ and 50‐year events) and post‐fire predictions. TheRCSmethod performs well, but application is limited to southern California. TheUSGSlinear regression model has wider regional application, but performance is less reliable at the large recurrence intervals and post‐fire predictions are reliant on a subjective modifier. Of the three curve number‐based models, Wildcat5 performs best overall without calibration, whereas the calibratedTR‐55 andHEC‐HMSmodels show significant improvement in pre‐fire predictions. Results from our study provide information and guidance to ultimately improve model selection for post‐fire prediction and encourage uniform parameter acquisition and calibration across the western U.S.
Increased Perception of Malpractice Liability and the Practice of Defensive Medicine
Authors: Chen Brian K. , Yang Chun‐Yuh
Published: July 2014

The extent and existence of defensive medicine in the face of malpractice pressure are subjects of perennial policy and academic debate. In this article, we investigate the impact of a series of arguably exogenous court rulings in Taiwan that increased physicians' perceived liability exposure, and a subsequent amendment to the law that reversed the courts' rulings, on physicians' test‐ordering behavior and choice of delivery method. We find that obstetricians most at risk for liability increased laboratory tests in response to the ruling, but did not change the likelihood of delivery by Cesarean sections. We further show no consistent patterns of preventable complications, postdelivery emergency department visits, or hospital readmissions associated with physician behavioral change. The overall pattern of results is highly suggestive of the practice of defensive medicine among physicians in Taiwan, and that payment incentives and provider organizational forms may have mediated the impact of changing liability risks.
Sugars as complementary alternative food for the establishment of Nesidiocoris tenuis in greenhouse tomato
Authors: Urbaneja‐Bernat P. , Mollá O. , Alonso M. , Bolkcmans K. , Urbaneja A. , Tena A.
Published: July 2014

Nesidiocoris tenuis (Reuter) (Hemiptera: Miridae) is an omnivorous generalist predator which is augmentatively released and conserved for control of whiteflies (Hemiptera: Aleyrodidae) and Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) in tomato crops. Eggs of Ephestia kuehniella Zeller (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) are often provided as factitious prey to improve the establishment of N. tenuis after its release. We first tested different amounts of E. kuehniella eggs per plant to optimize N. tenuis establishment and then investigated whether the amount of eggs that optimized N. tenuis establishment might be reduced by adding sugars (hydrocapsules filled with 0.5 m sucrose) under walk‐in cage and commercial greenhouse conditions. These experiments demonstrated that the addition of sugar to the diet of N. tenuis could half the amount of E. kuehniella eggs required to establish N. tenuis. Under greenhouse conditions, the progeny of N. tenuis per plant did not differ significantly between E. kuehniella alone or the half amount of E. kuehniella plus hydrocapsules. These results demonstrated that the sugar could partially substitute for E. kuehniella eggs improve establishment of N. tenuis and suggest that natural sugars such as nectar and honeydew might also beneficial.
Imprint of monsoonal patterns on the fish assemblage in coastal waters of south‐east India: a case study
Authors: Biswas S. , Hussain K. Jahir , Das N. P. I. , Russell B. C. , Satpathy K. K. , Mishra S. S.
Published: July 2014

The composition, species richness and diversity of a coastal fish assemblage from the Kalpakkam coast of south‐east India are described along with temporal distribution patterns related to seasonal fluctuations in dissolved oxygen, salinity, pH, chlorophyll‐a, phytoplankton and zooplankton species richness and density. A total of 244 fish species belonging to 21 orders, 87 families and 163 genera were recorded. The fish assemblage was dominated by reef‐associated species, followed by demersal species. The majority of the species (63%) are widely distributed in the western Indo‐Pacific as well as in the central Indo‐Pacific. Jaccard's coefficient analysis showed three distinct seasonal patterns of fish occurrence: pre‐monsoon (PrM), monsoon (M) and post‐monsoon (PoM). The maximum number of species was during the PrM period, followed by the PoM and M periods. Species occurrence analysis showed Sardinella longiceps to be dominant during PrM and M periods, Leiognathus dussumieri during the M period and Secutor insidiator and Secutor ruconius during the M and PoM periods. Canonical correspondence analysis indicated that salinity and rainfall were the two most influential environmental factors strongly correlated with temporal variation in the fish assemblage. The physico‐chemical conditions, in combination with factors such as greater food availability and shelter, might control the seasonal local distribution of the ichthyofauna in these Indian coastal waters.
Association between indices of clinically‐defined periodontitis and self‐reported history of systemic medical conditions
Authors: Chrysanthakopoulos Nikolaos A. , Chrysanthakopoulos Panagiotis A.
Published: July 2014

Aim

The aim of the current research was to investigate whether possible associations exist between indices of clinically‐defined periodontitis and several systemic medical conditions in outpatients referred to a special hospital clinic.

Methods

The study sample consisted of 3360 outpatients aged 45–65 years. Data were collected by means of an oral clinical examination and a self‐administered questionnaire. Statistical analysis of the questionnaire items was done with Fisher's exact test and the logistic regression model to assess possible associations between systemic medical conditions as independent variables, and the relative frequency of periodontal pockets ≥5 mm and clinical attachment loss (CAL) of ≥6 mm as dependent variables.

Results

The depth of periodontal pockets was significantly associated with male sex, the presence of vascular disease, hypertension, stroke, heart attack, diabetes mellitus, other endocrine diseases, thyroid disease, respiratory allergies, and rheumatoid arthritis. CAL was significantly associated with the mentioned conditions, and also infective endocarditis and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, but not other endocrine and thyroid disease.

Conclusions

The findings confirm the results from previous investigations in which a number of systemic medical conditions were significantly associated with probing pocket depth and/or CAL.
Peltate glandular trichomes of Colquhounia seguinii harbor new defensive clerodane diterpenoids
Authors: Li Chun‐Huan , Liu Yan , Hua Juan , Luo Shi‐Hong , Li Sheng‐Hong
Published: July 2014

Glandular trichomes produce a wide variety of secondary metabolites that are considered as major defensive chemicals against herbivore attack. The morphology and secondary metabolites of the peltate glandular trichomes of a lianoid Labiatae, Colquhounia seguinii Vaniot, were investigated. Three new clerodane diterpenoids, seguiniilactones A‐C (1–3), were identified through precise trichome collection with laser microdissection, metabolic analysis with ultra performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometer, target compound isolation with classical phytochemical techniques, structure elucidation with spectroscopic methods. All compounds showed significant antifeedant activity against a generalist plant‐feeding insect Spodoptera exigua. Seguiniilactone A (1) was approximately 17‐fold more potent than the commercial neem oil. α‐Substituted α,β‐unsaturated γ‐lactone functionality was found to be crucial for strong antifeedant activity of this class of compounds. Quantitative results indicated that the levels of these compounds in the peltate glandular trichomes and leaves were sufficiently high to deter the feeding by generalist insects. Moderate antifungal activity was observed for seguiniilactone C (3) against six predominant fungal species isolated from the diseased leaves of C. seguinii, while seguiniilactones A and B were generally inactive. These findings suggested that seguiniilactones A–C might be specialized secondary metabolites in peltate glandular trichomes for the plant defense against insect herbivores and pathogens.
Failure of heterogeneous amyloid‐enhancing factor in geriatric squirrel monkeys (Saimiri boliviensis)
Authors: Murakami Tomoaki , Ibi Kanata , Kuraishi Takeshi , Hattori Shosaku , Kai Chieko , Ishiguro Naotaka , Yanai Tokuma
Published: July 2014

Background

Cross‐species transmission of AA amyloidosis between primates and other animals has not been previously reported.

Methods

Eight geriatric squirrel monkeys were intravenously administered chimpanzee, bovine, or chicken amyloid fibrils and simultaneously received inflammatory stimulation.

Results

AA amyloid deposition was not detected in any of the monkeys histopathologically or immunohistochemically.

Conclusions

These results suggest that heterogeneous AA amyloidosis may not be easily transmitted into primates.
Everyday Morality
Authors: Eberhardt Nancy
Published: July 2014

This essay explores the nexus betweenBuddhist discourse, moral reasoning, and aspects of indigenous ethnopsychology in aShan community in northernThailand. I suggest that these three strands of thought are routinely braided together in intricate ways and, furthermore, that some version of this conceptual arrangement is necessary in order for any moral thinking to take place. That is, all moral thought entails some conception of the way the world is structured (a conception that may or may not be based on religion) and some ethnotheory of human nature, both of which are culturally mediated. Finally, I discuss the implications of this view for our understanding of human agency and autonomy.
Reason and Emotion in the Ethics of Self‐Restraint
Authors: Morris Daniel A.
Published: July 2014

In this essay I argue that Reinhold Niebuhr's ethics of self‐restraint, though promising, is based on an incomplete and imprecise moral psychology. Although Niebuhr claims that reason cannot provide a sufficient grounding to motivate self‐restraint, he does not disclose which human capacity might serve this purpose. I suggest that we can address this oversight by strengthening Niebuhr's tentative embrace of David Hume, and by developing a concept of the emotions in order to explain how human beings can cultivate a stable inclination to self‐restraint. This project is informed by and in the service of feminist critiques of Niebuhr and social concerns.
Stout, Rawls, and the Idea of Public Reason
Authors: Ryan Phil
Published: July 2014

Jeffrey Stout claims that John Rawls's idea of public reason (IPR) has contributed to a Christian backlash against liberalism. This essay argues that those whom Stout calls “antiliberal traditionalists” have misunderstood Rawls in important ways, and goes on to consider Stout's own critiques of the IPR. While Rawls's idea is often interpreted as a blanket prohibition on religious reasoning outside church and home, the essay will show that the very viability of the IPR depends upon a rich culture of deliberation in which all forms of reasoning can be put forth for consideration. This clarification addresses the perception that the IPR imposes an “asymmetrical burden” upon believers. In fact, the essay suggests that there are good reasons why believers, qua believers, might endorse the IPR.
Melatonin receptor‐mediated protection against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion injury: role of SIRT1
Authors: Yu Liming , Sun Yang , Cheng Liang , Jin Zhenxiao , Yang Yang , Zhai Mengen , Pei Haifeng , Wang Xiaowu , Zhang Haifeng , Meng Qiang , Zhang Yu , Yu Shiqiang , Duan Weixun
Published: July 2014

Melatonin confers cardioprotective effect against myocardial ischemia/reperfusion (MI/R) injury by reducing oxidative stress. Activation of silent information regulator 1 (SIRT1) signaling also reduces MI/R injury. We hypothesize that melatonin may protect against MI/R injury by activating SIRT1 signaling. This study investigated the protective effect of melatonin treatment on MI/R heart and elucidated its potential mechanisms. Rats were exposed to melatonin treatment in the presence or the absence of the melatonin receptor antagonist luzindole or SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 and then subjected to MI/R operation. Melatonin conferred a cardioprotective effect by improving postischemic cardiac function, decreasing infarct size, reducing apoptotic index, diminishing serum creatine kinase and lactate dehydrogenase release, upregulating SIRT1, Bcl‐2 expression and downregulating Bax, caspase‐3 and cleaved caspase‐3 expression. Melatonin treatment also resulted in reduced myocardium superoxide generation, gp91phox expression, malondialdehyde level, and increased myocardium superoxide dismutase (SOD) level, which indicate that the MI/R‐induced oxidative stress was significantly attenuated. However, these protective effects were blocked by EX527 or luzindole, indicating that SIRT1 signaling and melatonin receptor may be specifically involved in these effects. In summary, our results demonstrate that melatonin treatment attenuates MI/R injury by reducing oxidative stress damage via activation of SIRT1 signaling in a receptor‐dependent manner.
Compromised Endothelium‐Dependent Hyperpolarization‐Mediated Dilations can be Rescued by NS309 in Obese Zucker Rats
Authors: Tajbakhsh Negara , Sokoya Elke M.
Published: July 2014

Objective

NO and a non‐NO/prostacyclin EDH mechanism are major contributors of vascular tone and cerebral blood flow. However, the effect of metabolic syndrome on EDH‐mediated responses in cerebral vessels remains unknown and may offer another avenue for therapeutic targeting. The purpose of this study was to investigate EDH‐dependent responses in cerebral arteries during metabolic syndrome.

Methods

EDH‐dependent dilations were assessed in MCAs isolated from nondiabetic obese and lean Zucker rats in the presence and absence of NS309, an activator of SKCa and IKCa channels. IKCa channel expression and activity were assessed by western blotting and pressure myography, respectively.

Results

EDH‐mediated dilations were significantly attenuated in the obese compared to the lean Zucker rat MCA. Luminal delivery of 1 μM NS309 enhanced EDH‐mediated responses in lean and obese Zucker cerebral vessels. Both dose‐dependent dilations to luminal NS309 and IKCa protein expression in pooled cerebral arteries were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that pharmacological targeting of IKCa channels can rescue EDH‐mediated dilations in obese Zucker rat MCAs. Compromised EDH‐mediated dilations in obesity are not due to impaired IKCa channel expression or activity.
Resting complexes of the persistent yeast 20S RNA Narnavirus consist solely of the 20S RNA viral genome and its RNA polymerase p91
Authors: Vega Lorena , Sevillano Laura , Esteban Rosa , Fujimura Tsutomu
Published: July 2014

The positive strand 20S RNA narnavirus persistently infects Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The 20S RNA genome has a single gene that encodes the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (p91). 20S RNA forms ribonucleoprotein resting complexes (RNPs) with p91 and resides in the cytoplasm. Here we found no host proteins stoichiometrically associated with the RNP by pull‐down experiments. Furthermore, 20S RNA, when expressed from a vector in Escherichia coli, formed RNPs with p91 in the absence of yeast proteins. This interaction required the 3′ cis signal for complex formation. Moreover, when 23S RNA, the genome of another narnavirus, was expressed in E. coli, it also formed RNPs with its RNA polymerase p104. Finally, when both RNAs were expressed in the same E. coli cell, they formed RNPs only with their cognate RNA polymerases. These results altogether indicate that narnaviruses RNPs consist of only the viral genomes and their cognate RNA polymerases. Because the copy number of the RNPs can be induced almost equivalent to those of rRNAs in some yeast strains, the absence of host proteins may alleviate the burden on the host by not sequestering proteins into the RNPs. It may also contribute to the persistent infection of narnaviruses by decreasing their visibility.
Elicitin‐like proteins Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 from Pythium oligandrum trigger hypersensitive response in Nicotiana benthamiana and induce resistance against Botrytis cinerea in tomato
Authors: Ouyang Zhigang , Li Xiaohui , Huang Lei , Hong Yongbo , Zhang Yafen , Zhang Huijuan , Li Dayong , Song Fengming
Published: July 2014

The biocontrol agent Pythium oligandrum and its elicitin‐like proteins oligandrins have been shown to induce disease resistance in a range of plants. In the present study, the ability of two oligandrins, Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2, to induce an immune response and the possible molecular mechanism regulating the defence responses in Nicotiana benthamiana and tomato were investigated. Infiltration of recombinant Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 proteins induced a typical immune response in N. benthamiana including the induction of a hypersensitive response (HR), accumulation of reactive oxygen species and production of autofluorescence. Agrobacterium‐mediated transient expression assays revealed that full‐length Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 were required for full HR‐inducing activity in N. benthamiana, and virus‐induced gene silencing‐mediated knockdown of some of the signalling regulatory genes demonstrated that NbSGT1 and NbNPR1 were required for Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 to induce HR in N. benthamiana. Subcellular localization analyses indicated that both Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 were targeted to the plasma membrane of N. benthamiana. When infiltrated or transiently expressed in leaves, Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 induced resistance against Botrytis cinerea in tomato and activated the expression of a set of genes involved in the jasmonic acid/ethylene (JA/ET)‐mediated signalling pathway. Our results demonstrate that Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 are effective elicitors capable of inducing immune responses in plants, probably through the JA/ET‐mediated signalling pathway, and that both Oli‐D1 and Oli‐D2 have potential for the development of bioactive formulae for crop disease control in practice.
The role of adipokines in periodontal infection and healing
Authors: Deschner J. , Eick S. , Damanaki A. , Nokhbehsaim M.
Published: July 2014

Periodontitis is a chronic inflammatory disease of the periodontium, which is caused by pathogenic bacteria in combination with other risk factors. The bacteria induce an immunoinflammatory host response, which can lead to irreversible matrix degradation and bone resorption. Periodontitis can be successfully treated. To achieve regenerative periodontal healing, bioactive molecules, such as enamel matrix derivative (EMD), are applied during periodontal surgery. Recently, it has been shown that obesity is associated with periodontitis and compromised healing after periodontal therapy. The mechanisms underlying these associations are not well understood so far, but adipokines may be a pathomechanistic link. Adipokines are bioactive molecules that are secreted by the adipose tissue, and that regulate insulin sensitivity and energy expenditure, but also inflammatory and healing processes. It has also been demonstrated that visfatin and leptin increase the synthesis of proinflammatory and proteolytic molecules, whereas adiponectin downregulates the production of such mediators in periodontal cells. In addition, visfatin and leptin counteract the beneficial effects of EMD, whereas adiponectin enhances the actions of EMD on periodontal cells. Since visfatin and leptin levels are increased and adiponectin levels are reduced in obesity, these adipokines could be a pathomechanistic link whereby obesity and obesity‐related diseases enhance the risk for periodontitis and compromised periodontal healing. Recent studies have also revealed that adipokines, such as visfatin, leptin and adiponectin, are produced in periodontal cells and regulated by periodontopathogenic bacteria. Therefore, adipokines may also represent a mechanism whereby periodontal infections can impact on systemic diseases.
Altered lignin biosynthesis using biotechnology to improve lignocellulosic biofuel feedstocks
Authors: Poovaiah Charleson R. , Nageswara‐Rao Madhugiri , Soneji Jaya R. , Baxter Holly L. , Stewart Charles N.
Published: July 2014

Lignocellulosic feedstocks can be converted to biofuels, which can conceivably replace a large fraction of fossil fuels currently used for transformation. However, lignin, a prominent constituent of secondary cell walls, is an impediment to the conversion of cell walls to fuel: the recalcitrance problem. Biomass pretreatment for removing lignin is the most expensive step in the production of lignocellulosic biofuels. Even though we have learned a great deal about the biosynthesis of lignin, we do not fully understand its role in plant biology, which is needed for the rational design of engineered cell walls for lignocellulosic feedstocks. This review will recapitulate our knowledge of lignin biosynthesis and discuss how lignin has been modified and the consequences for the host plant.
Photooxidation of Tryptophan Leading to 2‐Aminoacetophenone – A Possible Reason for the Untypical Aging Off‐flavor in Wine
Authors: Horlacher Nora , Schwack Wolfgang
Published: July 2014

2‐Aminoacetophenone (AAP) was recognized as the key compound for the so‐called untypical aging off‐flavor (UTA) in Vitis vinifera wines. In this study, it was shown that AAP can be formed by photooxidation of free and protein‐bound tryptophan (TRP) in combination with a subsequent storage in model wine. Solutions of TRP and lysozyme were exposed to artificial sunlight both in the presence and in the absence of the photosensitizer riboflavin. Aliquots of the irradiation batches were stored in model wine solutions containing tartaric acid, sulfite and ethanol in different combinations. AAP formation could be identified from both free and bound (lysozyme) TRP, while free TRP resulted in higher yields. The presence of riboflavin during irradiation generally favored the AAP formation. AAP formation increased with increasing irradiation times, but AAP was not detectable, if TRP was directly incubated in model wine. Not only the irradiation time but also the storage time of model wines favored the formation of AAP. Concerning the model wine composition, it became evident that the presence of tartaric acid resulted in the highest AAP formation during storage.