bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy, Daylighting, and a Role for Interiors
Authors: Theodorson Judy
Published: June 2014

Twenty–first century energy concerns related to climate change and fossil fuel depletion have triggered a transformation in how buildings are conceived and executed. New paradigms emphasize integrated perspectives and collaborative processes as a means to achieve high performance/low–energy buildings. The human side of the energy equation is identified as an emergent area of practice; this is supported by literature indicating value in considering issues such as behaviors and comfort. This paper argues that interior design's interdisciplinary foundations—design of the near environment, environment–behavioral sciences, and interior building systems—uniquely position the discipline to develop a role around human factors in energy consumption in buildings. The argument is developed by examining integrated design practice frameworks that encourage collaborative teamwork, inclusive of the end user, and that emphasize predesign efforts that are decisive in determining the energy profile of a building. Daylighting design serves as a narrative to establish a conceptual orientation and method of practice; specific examples and research demonstrate instances throughout the design process where an occupant–centered focus makes important contributions to overall design intent. Implications to the profession and practice include a human–centered approach to sustainable design, and expanded areas of research and practice.
Furniture in Swedish Nursing Homes: A Design Perspective on Perceived Meanings within the Physical Environment
Authors: Jonsson Oskar , Östlund Britt , Warell Anders , Dalholm Hornyánszky Elisabeth
Published: June 2014

There are good reasons to believe that furniture designers can play an important role in the design of appropriate caring environments and thus contribute to the care that is provided. Designers are usually engaged by manufacturers that develop furniture for public procurement and a market for elderly consumers but often do not learn from those who spend their everyday lives in these environments. This paper is based on industrial design and presents a study that explores the relationships between people and furniture in nursing homes. Thematic interviews were carried out with residents and personnel, in total 21 participants. The study was carried out in three nursing homes in Stockholm. The results suggest that elderly people strive for a sense of home in their private rooms in contrast to shared rooms and that the perspectives on furniture differ between the elderly people and the personnel. The conclusion is that understanding the role of furniture at nursing homes can help to reinforce the identity of elderly residents and their needs of continuity, socialization and existential safety. The recommendations are to involve the experiences of elderly people in the design processes and to make more informed furniture investment decisions for nursing homes.
Contributions of dental colour to the physical attractiveness stereotype
Authors: Montero J. , Gómez‐Polo C. , Santos J. A. , Portillo M. , Lorenzo M. C. , Albaladejo A.
Published: June 2014

Dental appearance may play a key role on the way we develop a first impression of another person. To test whether relatively minor changes in the lightness of tooth colour would influence the perceived social appeal (social, intellectual, psychological and relational abilities) of an unknown male and unknown female, this cross‐sectional study was performed on 555 Spanish adults. The two major independent variables related to the photograph were tooth lightness (computer‐derived), divided into three levels that included lightened teeth, natural teeth and darkened teeth, and the gender of the observed face. Moreover, six independent variables related to the observer were assessed (age, gender, educational level, place of residence, frequency of brushing and self‐reported health status). The dependent variables were scored on five‐point Likert scales designed to quantify four domains (social, intellectual, psychological and relationship competences) of the Social Appeal Scale (SAS). Tooth lightness influences the perception of social appeal in all dimensions, as darkened smiles received significantly poorer scores than natural‐colour smiles, but these were also worse than lightened smiles. A logistic regression analysis revealed that the major predictor of social appeal was tooth lightness, and for each increment in lightness (from darkened to lightened smiles), the odds ratio (OR) of positive values being perceived increased significantly in all items (from 2·3 in Popularity to 6·9 in Happiness). A perceptible change in dental lightness is the strongest factor associated with the dental attractiveness stereotype, affecting significantly the 12 traits assessed, but mainly the Happiness, Social Relations and Academic Performance.
Testosterone Deficiency in Patients with Erectile Dysfunction: When Should a Higher Cardiovascular Risk Be Considered?
Authors: Martínez-Jabaloyas José M.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Low testosterone levels (low T) increase the cardiovascular (CV) risk of men with erectile dysfunction (ED). T levels associated with a higher CV risk are unknown.

Aim

To determine the prevalence of CV risk factors associated with low T as defined by European Guidelines and their contribution to low T, overall and at different ages.

Methods

Multicenter, cross-sectional, observational study conducted in Spain among men with ED aged ≥18 years visiting Urology/Andrology offices for sexual dysfunction. Anthropometric, clinical, and laboratory data, including total T (TT) values, were collected for 1,278 men.

Main Outcome Measures

Risk factors were assessed in men with TT ≤8, 8–12, and ≥12 nmol/L, and two-group comparisons were made. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed to calculate odds ratios for low T after adjusting for possible confounding factors.

Results

Mean age (standard deviation) was 58.0 (9.2) years. Age and prevalence of CV risk factors was similar in men with TT ≤8 nmol/L or 8–12 nmol/L and significantly higher than in men with TT >12 nmol/L. Low T was therefore considered as TT ≤12 nmol/L, with a prevalence of 33.3%. Obesity, hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and severe ED were the variables most strongly associated with low T: obesity in middle-aged men; hyperlipidemia, and hypertension in older men. Severe ED was a risk factor in both groups. Hypolipidemic therapy had the greater effect in young men. Multivariate analysis showed that severe ED and obesity were the strongest predictors of low T.

Conclusion

T levels associated with increased CV risk could go as high as 12 nmol/L in men with ED, with distribution of risk factors showing differences according to age. Obesity and severe ED are the best predictors of low T-related CV risk.
Canine hepacivirus and idiopathic hepatitis in dogs from a Dutch cohort
Authors: van der Laan L. J. W. , de Ruiter P. E. , van Gils I. M. , Fieten H. , Spee B. , Pan Q. , Rothuizen J. , Penning L. C.
Published: June 2014

Liver diseases are highly prevalent in the general dog population, though the etiology is often unknown. Recently a homolog of human hepatitis C virus was discovered in dogs with respiratory infections. Although this canine hepacivirus (CHV) was detectable in some liver samples, a clear link with liver disease has not been established. A recent study by Bexfield et al. showed that in a large cohort of dogs from the UK with idiopathic hepatitis, no evidence can be found for exposure to, or carrier state of CHV both in liver and in serum. The authors however state that ‘the absence of CHV infection on dogs from the UK might not represent the global ecology of the virus’. We investigated CHV‐infection in 267 liver biopsies from 120 dogs idiopathic hepatitis and 135 control animals, in a population from the Netherlands. Using a highly sensitive PCR assay for CHV‐NS3, no CHV was detected in all 267 liver samples. Our data show that the lack of association between canine hepacivirus and chronic liver disease in dogs is not limited to the UK, but is also found in an independent cohort from the European continent.
Integrin‐linked kinase regulates endothelial cell nitric oxide synthase expression in hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells
Authors: Shafiei Mahnoush S. , Lui Songling , Rockey Don C.
Published: June 2014

Background & Aims

Portal hypertension results from endothelial dysfunction after liver injury caused in part by abnormal production of endothelial cell derived nitric oxide synthase (eNOS). Here, we have postulated that endothelial mechanosensing pathways involving integrin‐linked kinase (ILK) may play a critical role in portal hypertension, eNOS expression and function. In this study, we investigated the role of ILK and the small GTP‐binding protein, Rho, in sinusoidal endothelial cell (SEC) eNOS regulation and function.

Methods

Primary liver SECs were isolated using standard techniques. Liver injury was induced by performing bile duct ligation (BDL). To examine the expression of Rho and ILK in vivo during wound healing, SECs were infected with constitutively active Rho (V14), a dominant negative Rho (N19) and constructs encoding ILK and a short hairpin‐inhibiting ILK.

Results

Integrin‐linked kinase expression was increased in SECs after liver injury; endothelin‐1, vascular endothelial growth factor, and transforming growth factor beta‐1 stimulated ILK expression in SECs. ILK expression in turn led to eNOS upregulation and to enhance eNOS phosphorylation and NO production. ILK knockdown or ILK (kinase) inhibition reduced eNOS mRNA expression, promoter activity, eNOS expression and ultimately NO production. In contrast, ILK overexpression had the opposite effect. Inhibition of ILK activity also disrupted the actin cytoskeleton in isolated SECs. Rho overexpression suppressed phosphorylation of the serine‐threonine kinase, Akt and inhibited eNOS phosphorylation. Finally, inhibition of Rho function with the RGS domain of the p115‐Rho‐specific GEF (p115‐RGS) significantly increased eNOS phosphorylation.

Conclusions

Our data suggest a potential role for ILK, the cytoskeleton and ILK signalling partners including Rho in regulating intrahepatic SEC eNOS expression and function.
Hepatitis E infection in patients with severe acute alcoholic hepatitis
Authors: Haim‐Boukobza Stéphanie , Coilly Audrey , Sebagh Mylène , Bouamoud Mouna , Antonini Teresa , Roche Bruno , Yordanova Olga , Savary Janine , Saliba Faouzi , Duclos‐Vallee Jean‐Charles , Samuel Didier , Ichai Philippe , Roque‐Afonso Anne‐Marie
Published: June 2014

Background & Aims

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) infection is a known cause of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure in developing countries, but its implication in Western countries remains unknown. HEV burden in the setting of severe acute alcoholic hepatitis (AAH) was assessed.

Methods

Patients admitted for severe AAH from 2007 to 2013, with available sera and histologically proven AAH, were included and managed according to current European guidelines. At admission, clinical and biological characteristics were collected; HEV serology and RNA detection were retrospectively performed.

Results

Eighty‐four patients were included. Mean age was 50.8 ± 9.6 years, 65.5% were male, 91.7% were cirrhotic and 33.3% presented with encephalopathy. Mean MELD and Maddrey scores were respectively 32.4 ± 11.4 and 73.3 ± 37. Liver biopsy showed mild, moderate and severe hepatitis in 25 (29.8%), 23 (27.4%) and 32 (38.1%) patients respectively. Steroids were given to 61 patients (72.6%) of whom 35 (57.4%) presented corticoresistance (mean Lille score: 0.78 ± 0.21). During hospitalization, 24 patients (28.6%) died and 11 (13.1%) were transplanted. Three patients (3.6%) presented markers of acute HEV infection and 21 (25%) markers of past HEV infection. Patient with acute infection were men, cirrhotic, and 2/3 presented with encephalopathy. Steroids were given to two patients without any response. The third patient died. None were transplanted.

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of patients with severe AAH had markers of acute HEV infection, with similar clinical presentation and outcomes. Larger studies are needed to evaluate HEV impact on AAH management, resistance to steroids, and outcome.
Major depression and suicide attempts in patients with liver disease in the United States
Authors: Le Strat Yann , Le Foll Bernard , Dubertret Caroline
Published: June 2014

Background & Aims

Depression is common in patients with liver disease. Moreover, alcohol use is intricately linked with both major depression and liver disease, and has also been linked with suicidal behaviours, suggesting that the alcohol use may have an intermediate role in the relationship between liver disease and major depression or suicidal behaviours. This study presents nationally representative data on the prevalence of major depression in patients with liver disease in the United States and its association with suicide attempts.

Methods

Data were drawn from the 2001–2002 National Epidemiologic Survey on Alcohol and Related Conditions (NESARC). The NESARC is a survey of 43 093 adults aged 18 years and older in the United States. Medically recognized liver diseases were self‐reported, and diagnoses of major depression were based on the Alcohol Use Disorder and Associated Disabilities Interview Schedule–DSM‐IV version.

Result

The prevalence of liver disease was estimated at 0.7%. Respondents with a liver disease reported 12‐month rates of major depression (17.2%) that were significantly higher than among respondents without liver disease (7.0%; Adjusted OR:2.2; CI: 1.2–4.1). Lifetime rates of suicide attempts among participants with a major depression were also higher in participants with a liver disease (33.2%) than among respondents without liver disease (13.7%; OR: 3.1; CI: 1.3–7.6).

Conclusions

Liver diseases are associated with major depression and suicide attempts among adults in the community. Adjustment for the amount of alcohol used or sociodemographical factors did not explain the observed association of liver disease with both major depression and suicide attempts.
Dual effects of α2‐adrenoceptors in modulating myogenic tone in sheep isolated internal anal sphincter
Authors: Rayment S. J. , Simpson J. A. D. , Eames T. , Acheson A. G. , Dashwood M. R. , Henry Y. , Gruss H. , Scholefield J. H. , Wilson V. G.
Published: June 2014

Background

The role of α‐adrenoceptors in promoting continence through modulation of sphincter tone has focused primarily on the effects of α1‐adrenoceptors. We have used three clinically available agents, which are selective for α2‐adrenoceptors, to investigate their role in contractile and neurogenic responses on the internal anal sphincter (IAS).

Methods

IAS strips, which had spontaneously generated tone, were used to investigate the contractile effect of lofexidine, brimonidine, and dexmedetomidine on muscle tone in the presence or absence of subtype selective antagonists. The effect of brimonidine on the magnitude and time course of neurogenic responses generated by electrical field stimulation (EFS) was also examined. The affinity of test compounds at α1‐ and α2‐adrenoceptors was established by competition binding with [3H]‐prazosin and [3H]‐RX821002.

Key Results

All agonists caused concentration‐dependent contraction of the IAS and lofexidine demonstrated an enantiomeric difference in potency with a 10‐fold difference between the (−) and (+) isomers. Responses to lofexidine and dexmedetomidine were inhibited in the presence of the α1‐adrenoceptor selective antagonist prazosin, but not in the presence of RX811059 (α2‐adrenoceptor selective antagonist); brimonidine responses were inhibited by RX811059 and, to a lesser extent, by prazosin. Brimonidine affected both magnitude and duration of neurogenic responses, which was reversed in the presence of RX811059.

Conclusions & Inferences

We conclude that α2‐adrenoceptors can mediate contraction of IAS, although this effect is most evident with efficacious imidazoline agonists rather than the most selective ligand. In addition, this receptor subtype can directly inhibit noradrenergic contractile responses to EFS and, indirectly, enhance nitrergic relaxatory responses.
Late‐acting self‐incompatibility–the pariah breeding system in flowering plants
Authors: Gibbs Peter E.
Published: June 2014

It is estimated that around half of all species of flowering plants show self‐incompatibility (SI). However, the great majority of species alleged to haveSIsimply comply with ‘the inability of a fully fertile hermaphrodite plant to produce zygotes when self‐pollinated’ – a definition that is neutral as to cause. Surprisingly few species have been investigated experimentally to determine whether theirSIhas the type of genetic control found in one of the three established mechanisms, that is, homomorphic gametophytic, homomorphic sporophytic or heteromorphicSI. Furthermore, our knowledge of the molecular basis of homomorphicSIderives from a few species in just five families – a small sample that has nevertheless revealed the existence of three different molecular mechanisms. Importantly, a sizeable cohort of species are self‐sterile despite the fact that self‐pollen tubes reach the ovary and in most cases penetrate ovules, a phenomenon called late‐acting self‐incompatibility (LSI). This review draws attention to the confusion between species that show ‘self‐incompatibility’ and those that possess one of the ‘conventionalSImechanisms’ and to argue the case for recognition ofLSIas having a widespread occurrence and as a mechanism that inhibits selfing and promotes outbreeding in many plant species.

ContentsSummary717I.Introduction717II.Conventional self‐incompatibility mechanisms718III.The occurrence of ‘conventional self‐incompatibility’ in angiosperm taxa718IV.A molecular perspective720V.Species lacking established conventional self‐incompatibility in the angiosperms722VI.Late‐acting self‐incompatibility722VII.General conclusions728Acknowledgements730References730
Sweets for the foe – effects of nonstructural carbohydrates on the susceptibility of Quercus robur against Phytophthora quercina
Authors: Angay Oguzhan , Fleischmann Frank , Recht Sabine , Herrmann Sylvie , Matyssek Rainer , Oßwald Wolfgang , Buscot François , Grams Thorsten E. E.
Published: June 2014

The root‐rot pathogen Phytophthora quercina is a key determinant of oak decline in Europe. The susceptibility of pedunculate oak (Quercus robur) to this pathogen has been hypothesized to depend on the carbon availability in roots as an essential resource for defense.

Microcuttings of Q. robur undergo an alternating rhythm of root and shoot growth. Inoculation of mycorrhizal (Piloderma croceum) and nonmycorrhizal oak roots with P. quercina was performed during both growth phases, that is, root flush (RF) and shoot flush (SF). Photosynthetic and morphological responses as well as concentrations of nonstructural carbohydrates (NSC) were analyzed. Infection success was quantified by the presence of pathogen DNA in roots.

Concentrations of NSC in roots depended on the alternating root/shoot growth rhythm, being high and low during RF and SF, respectively. Infection success was high during RF and low during SF, resulting in a significantly positive correlation between pathogen DNA and NSC concentration in roots, contrary to the hypothesis.

The alternating growth of roots and shoots plays a crucial role for the susceptibility of lateral roots to the pathogen. NSC availability in oak roots has to be considered as a benchmark for susceptibility rather than resistance against P. quercina.
Gastrointestinal sensitivity and gastroesophageal reflux disease
Authors: Altomare Annamaria , Luca Guarino (Sara Emerenziani) Michele Pier , Cicala Michele , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Krarup Anne Lund , Brock Christina , Lottrup Christian , Frøkjær Jens Brøndum , Souza Rhonda F. , Nardone Gerardo , Compare Debora
Published: June 2014

This paper reports on gastrointestinal sensitivity, including on the role of refluxate volume on the perception of reflux symptoms; experimental pain models that mimic mechanisms and symptoms of pain associated with esophageal diseases; the potential role of the acid receptor TRPV1 in the genesis of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) symptoms; and roles for ATP and the purine and pyrimidine receptor subfamilies P1, P2X, and P2Y in the pathogenesis of GERD symptoms.
The esophageal mucosa and submucosa: immunohistology in GERD and Barrett's esophagus
Authors: Appelman Henry D. , Streutker Catherine , Vieth Michael , Neumann Helmut , Neurath Markus F. , Upton Melissa P. , Sagaert Xavier , Wang Helen H. , El‐Zimaity Hala , Abraham Susan C. , Bellizzi Andrew M.
Published: June 2014

This paper presents commentaries on the microscopic morphology of esophageal squamous epithelium; the frequency of duplication of the muscularis mucosae (MM) in Barrett's esophagus (BE); the significance of multilayered epithelium; whether cells in the lamina propria reflect those in the epithelium; how stem cells are identified in the squamous esophagus; dilated intercellular spaces; the metastasizing potential of early carcinoma‐dependent, molecular or immunohistochemical tests that improve diagnosis; the role of immunohistochemistry IHC in grading of neoplasia in Barrett's esophagus and defining the risk of progression to adenocarcinoma; the roles of CDX1 and CDX2 in squamous and cardiac mucosa; and the role of desmosomal cadherins and lectins in squamous and cardiac mucosa.
Tissue resistance in the normal and diseased esophagus
Authors: Bellizzi Andrew M. , Nardone Gerardo , Compare Debora , Bor Serhat , Capanoglu Doga , Farré Ricard , Neumann Helmut , Neurath Markus F. , Vieth Michael , Chen Hao , Chen Xiaoxin
Published: June 2014

This paper presents commentaries on reflux‐induced injury of human esophageal epithelium; inflammation in human reflux esophagitis; motor consequences of reflux‐induced inflammation in esophageal epithelium; the microscopic morphology of esophageal squamous epithelium; intraluminal impedance in the evaluation of the esophageal mucosa; endoscopic tissue morphology of esophageal squamous epithelium; and the developmental biology of esophageal squamous epithelium.
Cellular origins and molecular mechanisms of Barrett's esophagus and esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Fang Yu , Chen Xiaoxin , Bajpai Manisha , Verma Amit , Das Kiron M. , Souza Rhonda F. , Garman Katherine S. , Donohoe Claire L. , O'Farrell Naoimh J. , Reynolds John V. , Dvorak Katerina
Published: June 2014

This paper presents commentaries on animal models used for Barrett's esophagus (BE) and esophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) research; acid‐ and bile‐induced chromosomal instability and clonal selection during the progression of BE to EAC; how the components of gastric refluxate, especially acid and bile salts, promote carcinogenesis in metaplastic BE; genome‐wide changes in DNA methylation and transcription involved in BE carcinogenesis; the potential role of miRNA in the development of BE and EAC; the effect of inflammatory cytokines linked to obesity on the activation of cell‐death pathways and cell survival in BE and esophageal cancer; and the role of autophagy in esophageal cancer development.
Physiology of the upper segment, body, and lower segment of the esophagus
Authors: Miller Larry , Clavé Pere , Farré Ricard , Lecea Begoña , Ruggieri Michael R. , Ouyang Ann , Regan Julie , McMahon Barry P.
Published: June 2014

The following discussion on the physiology of the esophagus includes commentaries on the function of the muscularis mucosa and submucosa as a mechanical antireflux barrier in the esophagus; the different mechanisms of neurological control in the esophageal striated and smooth muscle; new insights from animal models into the neurotransmitters mediating lower esophageal sphincter (LES) relaxation, peristalsis in the esophageal body (EB), and motility of esophageal smooth muscle; differentiation between in vitro properties of the lower esophageal circular muscle, clasp muscle, and sling fibers; alterations in the relationship between pharyngeal contraction and relaxation of the upper esophageal sphincter (UES) in patients with dysphagia; the mechanical relationships between anterior hyoid movement, the extent of upper esophageal opening, and aspiration; the application of fluoroscopy and manometry with biomechanics to define the stages of UES opening; and nonpharmacological approaches to alter the gastroesophageal junction (GEJ).
Functional testing: pharyngeal pH monitoring and high‐resolution manometry
Authors: Savarino Edoardo , Zentilin Patrizia , Savarino Vincenzo , Tenca Andrea , Penagini Roberto , Clarke John O. , Bravi Ivana , Zerbib Frank , Yüksel Elif Saritaş
Published: June 2014

The following paper on functional testing of the pharynx includes commentaries on the use of 24‐h pH–impedance testing to identify patients with nonacid reflux and the caveats associated with automatic and visual analysis; the potential diagnostic yield of ambulatory high‐resolution manomentry (HRM), particularly in identifying non‐cardiac chest pain and transient lower esophageal sphincter relaxations; the differential manometric identification of conditions facilitated by using solid swallows, and the advantages of the newly developed ResTech oropharyngeal pH probe in the detection of proximal reflux events.
Why Do African Banks Lend So Little?
Authors: Andrianova Svetlana , Baltagi Badi , Demetriades Panicos , Fielding David
Published: June 2014

We put forward a plausible explanation of African banking sector under‐development in the form of a bad credit market equilibrium. Using an appropriately modified Industrial Organization model of banking, we show that the root of the problem could be unchecked moral hazard (strategic loan defaults) or adverse selection (a lack of good projects). Applying a dynamic panel estimator to a large sample of African banks, we show that loan defaults are a major factor inhibiting bank lending when institutional quality is low. We also find that once a threshold level of institutional quality has been reached, improvements in the default rate or institutional quality do not matter. This provides support for our theoretical predictions.
A review of the evidence for dietary interventions in preventing or slowing the progression of age‐related macular degeneration
Authors: Evans Jennifer R. , Lawrenson John G.
Published: June 2014

Purpose

To summarise the results of recent Cochrane systematic reviews that have investigated whether nutritional supplements prevent or slow the progression of age‐related macular degeneration (AMD).

Recent findings

There is no good evidence from randomised controlled trials that the general population should be taking antioxidant vitamin supplements to reduce their risk of developing AMD later on in life. By contrast, there is moderate quality evidence that people with AMD may experience a delay in progression by taking specific antioxidant vitamin and mineral supplements. This finding is drawn from one large randomised controlled trial conducted in the USA in a relatively well‐nourished population. Although observational studies have shown that the consumption of dietary omega 3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids may reduce the risk of progression to advanced AMD, two recently published randomised controlled trials failed to show any benefit of omega 3 supplements on AMD progression.

There is no high quality experimental evidence that nutritional supplementation is beneficial for the primary prevention of AMD. However, people with AMD may benefit from supplementation with antioxidant vitamins. There is currently no evidence to support increasing levels of omega 3 long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids in the diet for the explicit purpose of preventing or slowing the progression of AMD.
A fluctuant palatal swelling
Authors: Warren E. , Brady P. , Sleeman D.
Published: June 2014

A 78‐year‐old man presented with a fluctuant swelling on the hard palate, which had changed little in the 3–4 years it had been present. Given the nature of the clinical history and presentation, a benign salivary gland neoplasm was thought to be the most plausible diagnosis. Following detailed histological examination of the resected specimen, a definitive diagnosis of myoepithelioma was reached. Although a rarely encountered clinical entity, myoepithelioma should be considered when a salivary gland neoplasm is suspected. Diagnosis can only be made on evaluation of histological features necessitating biopsy in such cases.
Local gene silencing in plants via synthetic dsRNA and carrier peptide
Authors: Numata Keiji , Ohtani Misato , Yoshizumi Takeshi , Demura Taku , Kodama Yutaka
Published: June 2014

Quick and facile transient RNA interference (RNAi) is one of the most valuable plant biotechnologies for analysing plant gene functions. To establish a novel double‐strand RNA (dsRNA) delivery system for plants, we developed an ionic complex of synthetic dsRNA with a carrier peptide in which a cell‐penetrating peptide is fused with a polycation sequence as a gene carrier. The dsRNA–peptide complex is 100–300 nm in diameter and positively charged. Infiltration of the complex into intact leaf cells of Arabidopsis thaliana successfully induced rapid and efficient down‐regulation of exogenous and endogenous genes such as yellow fluorescent protein and chalcone synthase. The present method realizes quick and local gene silencing in specific tissues and/or organs in plants.
Heme‐heme oxygenase 1 system is involved in ammonium tolerance by regulating antioxidant defence in Oryza sativa
Authors: XIE YANJIE , MAO YU , XU SHENG , ZHOU HENG , DUAN XINGLIANG , CUI WEITI , ZHANG JING , XU GUOHUA
Published: June 2014

Despite substantial evidence showing the ammonium‐altered redox homeostasis in plants, the involvement and molecular mechanism of heme‐heme oxygenase 1 (heme‐HO1), a novel antioxidant system, in the regulation of ammonium tolerance remain elusive. To fill in these gaps, the biological function of rice HO1 (OsSE5) was investigated. Results showed that NH4Cl up‐regulated rice OsSE5 expression. Oxidative stress and subsequent growth inhibition induced by excess NH4Cl was partly mitigated by pretreatment with carbon monoxide (CO, a by‐product of HO1 activity) or intensified by zinc protoporphyrin (ZnPP, a potent inhibitor of HO1 activity). Pretreatment with HO1 inducer hemin, not only up‐regulated OsSE5 expression and HO activity, but also rescued the down‐regulation of antioxidant transcripts, total and related isozymatic activities, thus significantly counteracting the excess NH4Cl‐triggered reactive oxygen species overproduction, lipid peroxidation and growth inhibition. OsSE5 RNAi transgenic rice plants revealed NH4Cl‐hypersensitive phenotype with impaired antioxidant defence, both of which could be rescued by CO but not hemin. Transgenic Arabidopsis plants over‐expressing OsSE5 also exhibited enhanced tolerance to NH4Cl, which might be attributed to the up‐regulation of several antioxidant transcripts. Altogether, these results illustrated the involvement of heme‐HO1 system in ammonium tolerance by enhancing antioxidant defence, which may improve plant tolerance to excess ammonium fertilizer.
PtrBAM1, a β‐amylase‐coding gene of Poncirus trifoliata, is a CBF regulon member with function in cold tolerance by modulating soluble sugar levels
Authors: PENG TING , ZHU XIAOFANG , DUAN NIAN , LIU JI‐HONG
Published: June 2014

β‐Amylase (BAM) catalyses starch breakdown to generate maltose, which can be incorporated into sugar metabolism. However, the role of BAM genes in cold tolerance is less characterized. In this study, we report the isolation and functional characterization of a chloroplast‐localizing BAM‐encoding gene PtrBAM1 from Poncirus trifoliata. PtrBAM1 was induced by cold, dehydration and salt, but repressed by maltose. Overexpression of PtrBAM1 in tobacco (Nicotiana nudicaulis) increased BAM activity, promoted starch degradation and enhanced the contents of maltose and soluble sugars, whereas opposite changes were observed when PtrBAM1 homolog in lemon (Citrus lemon) was knocked down. The tobacco overexpressing lines exhibited enhanced tolerance to cold at chilling or freezing temperatures. Under cold stress, higher BAM activity and greater accumulation of maltose and soluble sugars were observed in the overexpressing lines when compared with the wild‐type or empty vector transformants. Bioinformatics analysis demonstrated that PtrBAM1 promoter contained a CBF‐recognizing element. Yeast one‐hybrid assay demonstrated that PtrCBF could interact with the promoter fragment containing the element. Taken together, these results demonstrate that PtrBAM1 is a member of CBF regulon and plays an important role in cold tolerance by modulating the levels of soluble sugars acting as osmolytes or antioxidants.
Family burden and family environment: Comparison between patients with panic disorder and with clinical diseases
Authors: Detzel Tatiana , Wesner Ana Cristina , Fritz Aline , da Silva Cristiano Tschiedel Belem , Guimarães Luciano , Heldt Elizeth
Published: June 2014

Aims

The objective of this study was to compare the family burden and environment of patients with panic disorder (PD) with those of a control group composed of relatives of patients with clinical diseases.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was performed with 67 relatives of patients with PD, and 66 family members of patients with clinical diseases. All patients were administered a set of instruments to assess family burden and environment.

Results

Multivariate analyses revealed significant between‐group differences on measurements of objective and subjective burden, both of which can be influenced by kinship, since higher levels of family burden tend to be reported by the children of the affected individual. Levels of family burden also tend to be associated with the severity of PD symptoms.

Conclusions

The assessment of family burden may be useful in developing family‐focused therapeutic strategies and may contribute to the improvement of patient outcomes.
Sources of Health Information among Rural Women in Western Kentucky
Authors: Simmons Leigh Ann , Wu Qishan , Yang Nancy , Bush Heather M. , Crofford Leslie J.
Published: June 2014

Objective

To identify sources of general and mental health information for rural women to inform the development of public health nursing interventions that consider preferences for obtaining information.

Design and Sample

One thousand women (mean age = 57 years; 96.9% White) living in primarily nonmetropolitan areas of Western Kentucky participated via a random‐digit‐dial survey.

Measures

Data were collected on demographics, sources of health information, depression, and stigma.

Results

Most participants preferred anonymous versus interpersonal sources for both general (68.1%) and mental health (69.4%) information. All participants reported at least one source of general health information, but 20.8% indicated not seeking or not knowing where to seek mental health information. The Internet was the most preferred anonymous source. Few women cited health professionals as the primary information source for general (11.4%) or mental (9.9%) health. Public stigma was associated with preferring anonymous sources and not seeking information.

Conclusions

Public health nurses should understand the high utilization of anonymous sources, particularly for mental health information, and focus efforts on helping individuals to navigate resources to ensure they obtain accurate information about symptoms, effective treatments, and obtaining care. Reducing stigma should remain a central focus of prevention and education in rural areas.
The Conditional Effect of Term Limits on Electoral Activities
Authors: VanDusky‐Allen Julie
Published: June 2014

In this article, I examine how term limits affect the amount of time that legislators focus on constituency service and fundraising. I use data from the 2002 U.S. State Legislative Survey conducted by Carey, Niemi, Powell, and Moncrief to provide support for my hypotheses. The results from the data analysis suggest that in the presence of term limits, legislators with long‐term career goals in politics spend less time on constituency service activities and more time on fundraising with their caucus. For legislators with short‐term career goals in politics, there is very little evidence to suggest that term limits have an effect on how much time they spend on constituency service activities and fundraising activities.
Expanding the Universe of Multi‐Organizational Arrangements: Contingent Coordination and the Deepwater Horizon Transportation Challenges
Authors: McNamara Madeleine W. , Morris John C. , Mayer Martin
Published: June 2014

Highly flexible in nature, “contingent coordination” may be an ideal response mechanism for many of today's increasingly complex problems. However, the existing literature lacks a conceptual discussion regarding factors that contribute to its success or failure, as well as an empirical application of the theory. When the Deepwater Horizon offshore drilling unit exploded in April 2010, it resulted in the largest response effort in American history, involving personnel representing numerous organizations stretching from the southern coast of Louisiana through the panhandle of Florida. This article explores five underlying themes of contingent coordination, and applies those themes to the Deepwater Horizon incident response. We find that contingent coordination holds promise as a means to address transient, complex problems.
Foundations for Change: Rule of Law, Development, and Democratization
Authors: Beal Amanda L. , Graham Leah
Published: June 2014

This article advances the discussion of democratization as a complex process. Much of the democratization story focuses on wealth and how it advances or maintains liberalization. However, in this work, we demonstrate that the route to democracy and the route to wealth lie in the limitations on the state, specifically the rule of law which holds the state accountable as it creates a realm of sovereign space for man. We focus on the rule of law and evaluate how the lack of corruption in government and the enforcement of property rights impact wealth, the formation of civil society, and the corresponding shift of power structures that lead to democratization efforts. We analyze the hypothesized relationships through a nested analysis design, focusing on the developing world, where previous modernization theories have been less applicable, and explain how rule of law has an increasing impact on both development and democratization.
Leader Turnover, Volatility, and Political Risk
Authors: Fails Matthew D.
Published: June 2014

On average, democracy reduces political risk for foreign investors, yet this emphasis on regime type obscures the tremendous variation within autocracies. Moreover, conventional explanations emphasizing the role of checks and balances are ill‐suited to explain why some autocracies, which typically lack these features, are associated with such low‐risk environments. This article explains variations in political risk by emphasizing the role of autocratic leader replacement. Autocrats select from a heterogeneous mixture of private goods to appease narrow‐winning coalitions. Leader replacement in such regimes is, therefore, associated with new winning coalitions and new private goods. When turnover is frequent, the policy environment becomes more volatile and political risk increases relative to autocracies with more stable leadership. Importantly, the risk‐increasing effect of turnover holds for both irregular and rule‐bound leader transitions in autocracies. These predictions are strongly supported through cross‐national quantitative analysis employing a new measure of leaders’ risk of political replacement.
Increased lung cancer risk in patients with interstitial lung disease and elevated CEA and CA125 serum tumour markers
Authors: Dai Huaping , Liu Jianqun , Liang Lirong , Ban Chengjun , Jiang Jing , Liu Yan , Ye Qiao , Wang Chen
Published: June 2014

Background and objective

The aetiology and pathogenesis of interstitial lung disease (ILD) and ILD combined with lung cancer (ILD‐CA) are unclear. We aim to investigate serum tumour marker (STM) levels and to explore their predictive and diagnostic value of cancer in ILD.

Methods

Fifty‐eight patients with ILD‐CA, 632 with ILD only and 628 with acute respiratory illness were studied. Serum levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA), carbohydrate antigen 19‐9 (CA19‐9), CA125 and neuron‐specific enolase (NSE) were measured.

Results

All STM levels were elevated in ILD‐CA compared with ILD group (P < 0.01). CEA and CA125 levels were significantly higher in ILD than in controls (P < 0.01). After adjustment for gender, age and smoking, ILD‐CA risk in the CEA and CA125 fourth quartiles was increased compared with the first quartiles (CEA: odds ratio (OR) = 8.7, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 2.0–37.6; CA125: OR = 9.8, 95% CI = 2.3–42.7). Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis in patients with ILD‐CA showed a cut‐off points of 3.99 ng/mL for CEA and 35.00 U/mL for CA125 with sensitivities of 74.6% and 71.9%, specificities 70.4% and 66.1%, and the areas under the curve 0.76 (95% CI = 0.69–0.82) and 0.75 (95% CI = 0.69–0.81), respectively.

Conclusions

Serum CEA and CA125 levels are often elevated in ILD patients. The risk of cancer in ILD is increased with an elevation of serum CEA and CA125 levels. Serum CEA and CA125 levels may be a marker of cancer in ILD patients.
A new human leukocyte antigen‐A allele, HLA‐A*02:482
Authors: Zhu X. , Yang T. , Yao F. , Che Z. , Su P. , Luo Z. , Tan R.
Published: June 2014

A novel allele HLA‐A*02:482 differs from the closest allele HLA‐A*02:01:01:01 by a nucleotide change at codon 57.
Genomic full‐length sequence of two HLA‐A alleles, A*02:01:01:01 and A*02:03:01, identified by cloning and sequencing
Authors: Tao H. , Xu Y. P. , Chen L. X.
Published: June 2014

Genomic full‐length sequences of HLA‐A*02:01:01:01 and HLA‐A*02:03:01 were identified by cloning and sequencing from two Chinese donors.
The willingness to intervene in problematic neighbourhood situations: A comparison of local entrepreneurs and (un‐)employed residents
Authors: Steenbeek Wouter , Schutjens Veronique
Published: June 2014

By emphasising that businesses attract offenders or generate ‘eyes on the street’ discouraging potential offenders, previous studies have largely neglected the active role of local business owners. As neighbourhood business owners have both individual and professional local stakes, they may take responsibility for a place and its immediate surroundings. Using a dataset of 895 residents and 385 entrepreneurs nested within 161 residential neighbourhoods, we show that local business owners are more willing to intervene in disorderly situations than unemployed residents. The findings suggest that this is caused by them having both higher expectations about intervention by others and greater belief in their own problem‐solving capabilities. We speculate that although entrepreneurs only report higher willingness than unemployed residents but not employed residents, their presence may nevertheless influence neighbourhood order because they spend much time locally and thus have many opportunities to turn their willingness into action on behalf of the neighbourhood.
Cytokine‐Induced Slowing of STAT3 Nuclear Import; Faster Basal Trafficking of the STAT3β Isoform
Authors: Ng Ivan H. W. , Bogoyevitch Marie A. , Jans David A.
Published: June 2014

The STAT3 signal transducer and activator of transcription is a key mediator of gene transcription in response to cytokines such as oncostatin M (OSM). We performed direct live cell imaging of GFP‐tagged STAT3 proteins for the first time, showing transient relocalization of STAT3α to the nucleus following OSM exposure, in contrast to sustained nuclear relocalization of the shorter STAT3β spliceform. To explore this further, we applied fluorescence recovery after photobleaching (FRAP) to determine the nuclear import kinetics of STAT3α and β, as well as of a C‐terminal truncation derivative STAT3ΔC comprising only the sequence shared by the spliceforms, in the absence or presence of OSM. The rates of basal nuclear import for STAT3β and STAT3ΔC were significantly faster than those for STAT3α. Strikingly, OSM slowed the import rates of all the three STAT3 proteins, whereas the import rates of GFP alone or a classical importin‐mediated cargo were unaffected, with analysis of Y705F mutant derivatives for all the three STAT3 constructs, or of a S727A mutant within the unique C‐terminus of STAT3α, reinforcing the contribution of specific phosphorylation to the cytokine‐stimulated changes. The results introduce a new paradigm where cytokine treatment prolongs nuclear retention simultaneous with decreasing rather than increasing the rate of nuclear import.
Distinct Actions of Rab3 and Rab27 GTPases on Late Stages of Exocytosis of Insulin
Authors: Cazares Victor A. , Subramani Arasakumar , Saldate Johnny J. , Hoerauf Widmann , Stuenkel Edward L.
Published: June 2014

Rab GTPases associated with insulin‐containing secretory granules (SGs) are key in targeting, docking and assembly of molecular complexes governing pancreatic β‐cell exocytosis. Four Rab3 isoforms along with Rab27A are associated with insulin granules, yet elucidation of the distinct roles of these Rab families on exocytosis remains unclear. To define specific actions of these Rab families we employ Rab3GAP and/or EPI64A GTPase‐activating protein overexpression in β‐cells from wild‐type or Ashen mice to selectively transit the entire Rab3 family or Rab27A to a GDP‐bound state. Ashen mice carry a spontaneous mutation that eliminates Rab27A expression. Using membrane capacitance measurements we find that GTP/GDP nucleotide cycling of Rab27A is essential for generation of the functionally defined immediately releasable pool (IRP) and central to regulating the size of the readily releasable pool (RRP). By comparison, nucleotide cycling of Rab3 GTPases, but not of Rab27A, is essential for a kinetically rapid filling of the RRP with SGs. Aside from these distinct functions, Rab3 and Rab27A GTPases demonstrate considerable functional overlap in building the readily releasable granule pool. Hence, while Rab3 and Rab27A cooperate to generate release‐ready SGs in β‐cells, they also direct unique kinetic and functional properties of the exocytotic pathway.
Randomized Controlled Trials and Challenge Trials: Design and Criterion for Validity
Authors: Sargeant J. M. , Kelton D. F. , O'Connor A. M.
Published: June 2014

This article is the third of six articles addressing systematic reviews in animal agriculture and veterinary medicine. This article provides an overview of clinical trials, both randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and challenge trials, where the disease outcome is deliberately induced by the investigator. RCTs are not the only study design used in systematic reviews, but are preferred when available as the gold standard for evaluating interventions under real‐world conditions. RCTs are planned experiments, which involve diseased or at‐risk study subjects and are designed to evaluate interventions (therapeutic treatments or preventive strategies, including antibiotics, vaccines, management practices, dietary changes, management changes or lifestyle changes). Key components of the RCT are the use of one or more comparison (control) groups and investigator control over intervention allocation. Important design features in RCTs include as follows: how the population is selected, approach to allocation of intervention and control group subjects, how allocation is concealed prior to enrolment of study subjects, how outcomes are defined, how allocation to group is concealed (blinding) and how withdrawals from the study are managed. Guidelines for reporting important features of RCTs have been published and are useful tools for writing, reviewing and reading reports of RCTs.