bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk Factors of Breast Cancer
Authors: Anothaisintawee Thunyarat , Wiratkapun Cholatip , Lerdsitthichai Panuwat , Kasamesup Vijj , Wongwaisayawan Sansanee , Srinakarin Jiraporn , Hirunpat Siriporn , Woodtichartpreecha Piyanoot , Boonlikit Sarawan , Teerawattananon Yot , Thakkinstian Ammarin
Published: May 2013

The etiology of breast cancer might be explained by 2 mechanisms, namely, differentiation and proliferation of breast epithelial cells mediated by hormonal factors. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to update effects of risk factors for both mechanisms. MEDLINE and EMBASE were searched up to January 2011. Studies that assessed association between oral contraceptives (OC), hormonal replacement therapy (HRT), diabetes mellitus (DM), or breastfeeding and breast cancer were eligible. Relative risks with their confidence intervals (CIs) were extracted. A random-effects method was applied for pooling the effect size. The pooled odds ratios of OC, HRT, and DM were 1.10 (95% CI = 1.03-1.18), 1.23 (95% CI = 1.21-1.25), and 1.14 (95% CI = 1.09-1.19), respectively, whereas the pooled odds ratio of ever-breastfeeding was 0.72 (95% CI = 0.58-0.89). Our study suggests that OC, HRT, and DM might increase risks, whereas breastfeeding might lower risks of breast cancer.
Emotional Contagion at Work
Authors: Bull Schaefer Rebecca A. , Palanski Michael E.
Published: May 2013

This article describes an in-class exercise designed to demonstrate the concept of emotional contagion. Empirical research has found that leader emotional displays at work relate to various member work attitudes and performance. However, students may have a difficult time understanding how and why emotions can influence organizational outcomes. Thus, the objective of this in-class exercise is to demonstrate how quickly and easily leader emotional displays stimulate contagion among group members. In addition, this exercise allows students to reflect on the influence of emotional labor and displayed versus felt leader emotional displays in organizations. Specifically, the exercise uses exaggerated leader emotional displays, and students get the opportunity to experience and reflect on how both authentic and inauthentic emotional displays are contagious. After reviewing the literature concerning emotional contagion, emotional labor, and emotional regulation strategies, this exercise is described in detail and class discussion points are presented. Finally, the article ends with advice on how to incorporate this experiential exercise in other undergraduate and graduate management courses and how instructors might use our findings.
Concurrent computer-aided design system for supporting technological aspect of cutting die design
Authors: Potočnik David , Dolšak Bojan , Ulbin Miran
Published: May 2013

Designing of stamping dies is a complex procedure where comprehensive knowledge is needed, in order to understand the interactions of various interdependent parameters that are extensively engaged within all development phases of a sheet-metal stamping product. Many important die design decisions are made based on technological knowledge, which is especially closely related to understanding the activities of product design and process planning. Due to the lack of such valuable knowledge within conventional three-dimensional computer-aided design systems, a concurrent system for supporting technological aspect of die design process is proposed within this article. The system that was developed on top of computer-aided three-dimensional interactive application CATIA V5 product lifecycle management software enables die design automation on the basis of constraint solving. Product design and process planning activities are accomplished concurrently by system’s modules. Finally, it extracts relevant technological information and decisions directly to the die design phase. The system also represents unique basis for the development of some modules capable of automatic reasoning, regarding die design and performing actions on this basis. The experimental results showed that the use of this system significantly shortens sheet-metal product development cycle, improves its quality, and enables efficient training of inexperienced designers.
DNA superhelical structures with non-constant helical pitch
Authors: Argudo David , Purohit Prashant K
Published: May 2013

We develop an elastic–isotropic rod model for superhelical DNA structures where the helical angle is varying as a function of the arc-length. Our motivation for a variable helical angle comes from some experiments and simulations on DNA braids where complex superhelical structures have been observed. The helical solutions are minimizers of a free energy consisting of elastic, entropic and electrostatic terms. These minimizers are obtained within a variational framework where the end-points of the helices are allowed to be variable so that the length of the superhelix is computed as part of the solution. Considering variable curvature solutions brings up the possibility of finding more complex DNA structures because for two (or more) interwound helices there is a geometrical lock-up helical angle which puts a limit on the length of a superhelix. We perform calculations with different ionic concentrations and study the effects of lock up for braided structures. We also extend the variable curvature model to study the formation of plectonemes in the presence of multivalent salts where the supercoiling radius can be regarded as a constant prescribed by the balance of attractive and repulsive forces in DNA–DNA interactions, and provide analytical solutions in terms of elliptic functions for the supercoil parameters.
On the mechanics of thin films and growing surfaces
Authors: Holland Maria A , Kosmata Tim , Goriely Alain , Kuhl Ellen
Published: May 2013

Many living structures are coated by thin films, which have distinct mechanical properties from the bulk. In particular, these thin layers may grow faster or slower than the inner core. Differential growth creates a balanced interplay between tension and compression and plays a critical role in enhancing structural rigidity. Typical examples with a compressive outer surface and a tensile inner core are the petioles of celery, caladium, or rhubarb. While plant physiologists have studied the impact of tissue tension on plant rigidity for more than a century, the fundamental theory of growing surfaces remains poorly understood. Here, we establish a theoretical and computational framework for continua with growing surfaces and demonstrate its application to classical phenomena in plant growth. To allow the surface to grow independently of the bulk, we equip it with its own potential energy and its own surface stress. We derive the governing equations for growing surfaces of zero thickness and obtain their spatial discretization using the finite-element method. To illustrate the features of our new surface growth model we simulate the effects of growth-induced longitudinal tissue tension in a stalk of rhubarb. Our results demonstrate that different growth rates create a mechanical environment of axial tissue tension and residual stress, which can be released by peeling off the outer layer. Our novel framework for continua with growing surfaces has immediate biomedical applications beyond these classical model problems in botany: it can be easily extended to model and predict surface growth in asthma, gastritis, obstructive sleep apnoea, brain development, and tumor invasion. Beyond biology and medicine, surface growth models are valuable tools for material scientists when designing functionalized surfaces with distinct user-defined properties.
Motion of the particles due to viscoelastic surface waves of an assigned frequency
Authors: Ivanov Ts P , Savova R
Published: May 2013

The motion of the material particles due to viscoelastic properties of the half-space is considered when the propagating surface wave has an assigned frequency. The detailed examination shows that for Rayleigh waves in classical elasticity as well as for the viscoelastic Rayleigh-type surface waves the sense of the particle path along the ellipse is retrograde on the surface of the half-space and changes into direct only once at depth about one seventh to one quarter of the wavelength. When there is a viscoelastic surface wave that does not satisfy the adopted four criteria for behaviour at infinity (the case of viscoelastic Rayleigh-type surface wave) but only two of them, this additional wave is direct on the surface of the half-space and does not change or may change many times the sense of the particle path along the ellipse with the distance from the stress-free surface of the half-space. In contrast to the elastic case, the ellipse axes in the viscoelastic case are not parallel and orthogonal to the surface of the half-space, respectively. Their orientation depends on the magnitude of the viscous part of the Lamé moduli and tends to a constant at great depth. The numerical computations in the paper refer to some typical values of the complex Lamé moduli and to some real materials.
Social Ecology of Asthma
Authors: Gillen Emily M. , Hassmiller Lich Kristen , Yeatts Karin B. , Hernandez Michelle L. , Smith Timothy W. , Lewis Megan A.
Published: May 2013

This article describes a process for integrating health behavior and social science theories with practice-based insights using participatory systems thinking and diagramming methods largely inspired by system dynamics methods. This integration can help close the gap between research and practice in health education and health behavior by offering a systematic approach to bring together stakeholders across multiple domains. In this process we create a diagram using constructs from multiple health behavior theories at all levels of the social ecological framework as variables in causal loop diagrams. The goal of this process is to elucidate the reciprocal relationships between explanatory factors at various levels of the social ecological framework that render so many public health problems intractable. To illustrate, we detail a theory-based, replicable process for creating a qualitative diagram to enrich understanding of caregiver and provider behavior around adherence to pediatric asthma action plans. We describe how such diagramming can serve as the foundation for translating evidence into practice to address real-world challenges. Key insights gained include recognition of the complex, multilevel factors affecting whether, and how effectively, parents/caregivers and medical providers co-create an asthma action plan, and important “feedback” dynamics at play that can support or derail ongoing collaboration. Although this article applies this method to asthma action plan adherence in children, the method and resulting diagrams are applicable and adaptable to other health behaviors requiring continuous, daily action.
Detecting Aelurostrongylus abstrusus-specific IgG antibody using an immunofluorescence assay
Authors: Briggs Kaitlyn R , Yaros Joseph P , Liotta Janice L , Lucio-Forster Araceli , Lee Alice CY , Bowman Dwight D
Published: May 2013

Diagnosis of feline lungworm, Aelurostrongylus abstrusus, is typically achieved by identifying larvae in feces following concentration through flotation or using the Baermann technique. This work presents observations on the usefulness of an indirect immunofluorescence antibody assay for detection of antibodies to this parasite in the sera of infected cats. Using first-stage larvae of A abstrusus and sera from both experimentally and naturally infected cats, it was determined that the test was fairly sensitive and did not cross-react with serum from an Ancylostoma braziliense (hookworm)-infected cat.
The process of individual unlearning: A neglected topic in an under-researched field
Authors: Hislop Donald , Bosley Sara , Coombs Crispin R , Holland Julie
Published: May 2013

In a contemporary business environment where change is often regarded as continuous, the ability of people or organizations to be able to successfully adapt and respond to change is key. Change often involves not only the learning of new behaviours, ideas, or practices but also giving up or abandoning some established ones. Despite both these elements generally being important to change, academic focus on processes of abandoning or giving up established knowledge and practices, that is, unlearning, is lacking. This conceptual article draws on a range of literature to suggest that the process of individual unlearning may have particular features. The review defines the concept of unlearning, differentiates between two different types of individual unlearning, and suggests that each type of individual unlearning may have its own distinctive features and dynamics. This article builds from this insight through developing a typology, which distinguishes between four types of individual unlearning. It concludes with an agenda for future empirical research to examine and validate the concepts presented.
Learning from a fool: Searching for the ‘unmanaged’ context for radical learning
Authors: Izak Michal
Published: May 2013

Drawing on the existing theorizing of organizational learning from a radical perspective, this article attempts to problematize such notion of learning and position it within the existing organizational contexts informed by divergent types of rationality. The study scrutinizes these frameworks with a view to reflect on the potentiality for radical learning to occur within them. In this vein, the conceptual analysis of non-technical and non-marginal notions, namely, ‘spirituality’, ‘luck’ and ‘wisdom’, in different modes of rationality is conducted. This article demonstrates that since the conceptual inclusiveness is entailed by the specificity of sensemaking mechanisms, which these modes employ, the analysed notions can be approached as their litmus paper. The functionalist rationality types are found to be incommensurate with exigencies of the radical context for learning. In pursue of the conducive area for radical learning, the notions of unmanaged organization and the technology of foolishness provide the theoretical frame for the study, and their joint sensemaking context is discussed using examples. This unmanaged space driven by inclusive foolishness is recognized as one that enables the liminal sensemaking processes conducive for radical learning to occur.
Separate worlds: A discourse analysis of mainstream and Aboriginal populist media accounts of the Northern Territory Emergency Response in 2007
Authors: Proudfoot Fiona , Habibis Daphne
Published: May 2013

Critical commentary about the Northern Territory Emergency Response (NTER) has included the claim that the media presented a simplistic and stereotyped image of Aboriginal communities at the time of its introduction in 2007, but to date there has been no systematic analysis to support this. This study addresses this research gap through a critical discourse analysis of reportage of the NTER in mainstream and Aboriginal populist print media. The findings reveal major differences in these accounts, with radically different propositions and normative assumptions. Mainstream media were overwhelmingly negative in their portrayal of remote Aboriginal communities, were silent about Aboriginal resistance and portrayed urgent Commonwealth intervention as necessary and heroic. The Aboriginal media provided contextualised accounts of the issues and focused intensely on the human rights implications of the intervention. The findings reveal a concerning racialised divide in representations of the issues facing remote Aboriginal communities in 2007 that helps to explain why the Australian public accepted policies that discriminated against Australia’s First Nations peoples.
Skype interviewing: reflections of two PhD researchers
Authors: Deakin Hannah , Wakefield Kelly
Published: May 2013

When conducting qualitative research, the modern-day researcher has a variety of options available in order to collect data from participants. Although traditional face-to-face interviews remain prominent, innovative communication technologies, such as Skype, have facilitated new modes of communication. While potential research populations have become increasingly geographically dispersed, technological advancements and software have made communicating over large distances more feasible. Because of this, research is no longer limited to face-to-face accessible participants, as online methods have facilitated access to global research participants. This article presents the experiences of two PhD researchers using Skype to interview participants. While findings show that there are benefits and drawbacks to the utility of Skype, this article argues that synchronous online interviewing is a useful supplement or replacement to face-to-face interviews. Concluding comments acknowledge that more research is required to more comprehensively understand how technologies challenge the basic assumptions of the traditional face-to-face interview.
Narcissus and the muse: supervisory implications of autobiographical, practice-led PhD design theses
Authors: Ings Welby J
Published: May 2013

This article draws on case studies undertaken in doctoral research at AUT University. It seeks to address a number of issues impacting supervisors and graphic design research candidates who employ autobiographic approaches when developing practice-led theses. When employed as a framework, autobiographic inquiries offer a rewarding yet challenging system for connecting investigation with the researcher’s personal experience. This article provides a discussion of the nature, advantages and challenges of autobiographic research in relation to two recent Doctor of Philosophy theses in graphic design. Through this, it seeks to provide a useful reflection on cautions and opportunities inherent in the methodology.
Inferior Vena Cava Thrombosis Following Endovascular Repair of Acute Aortocaval Fistula
Authors: Bernstein Jeffrey , Jimenez Juan Carlos
Published: May 2013

Acute aortocaval fistula (ACF) is a rare, life-threatening condition with a complex clinical presentation, making prompt diagnosis challenging. Primary ACF is believed to be associated with abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) rupture in 80% of the cases. Thrombotic complications following endovascular repair for acute ACF are rare and less widely recognized. A high index of suspicion is required for diagnosis of this postoperative complication. We describe a novel, staged management approach using endovascular aortic stent grafts (Gore Excluder; Flagstaff, CA) in both the abdominal aorta and the inferior vena cava (IVC) in a patient with a ruptured AAA and acute ACF with subsequent acute IVC thrombosis.
Emotions about Emotions
Authors: Mendonça Dina
Published: May 2013

This article discusses the importance of metaemotions (emotions about emotions), showing their undeniable existence and how they are a critical and essential part of emotion life. The article begins by placing reflexivity of emotions within the general reflexivity of human beings. Then, the article presents the literature on metaemotion, showing some of the problems that surround them, which ultimately will lead to ask if the concept of metaemotion is really necessary. The second part of the article argues for the usefulness of the concept, pointing out its role in establishing distinctions among emotional states as well as further clarifying the nature of emotion, and concludes on pointing out some of the directions for future research on metaemotions.
Invisible Man
Authors: Böckler Anne , Hömke Paul , Sebanz Natalie
Published: May 2013

Social exclusion results in lowered satisfaction of basic needs and shapes behavior in subsequent social situations. We investigated participants’ immediate behavioral response during exclusion from an interaction that consisted of establishing eye contact. A newly developed eye-tracker-based “looking game” was employed; participants exchanged looks with two virtual partners in an exchange where the player who had just been looked at chose whom to look at next. While some participants received as many looks as the virtual players ( included), others were ignored after two initial looks ( excluded). Excluded participants reported lower basic need satisfaction, lower evaluation of the interaction, and devaluated their interaction partners more than included participants, demonstrating that people are sensitive to epistemic ostracism. In line with William’s need-threat model, eye-tracking results revealed that excluded participants did not withdraw from the unfavorable interaction, but increased the number of looks to the player who could potentially reintegrate them.
Assessing Long-Term Health and Cost Outcomes of Patient-Centered Medical Homes Serving Adults With Poor Diabetes Control
Authors: Pagán José A. , Carlson Erin K.
Published: May 2013

The patient-centered medical home (PCMH) is an integrated primary care delivery model particularly suited for patients with poor diabetes control. Although PCMH models targeting adults with diabetes have shown some early success, little is known about the long-term benefits of medical homes in terms of health and cost outcomes. The performance of a PCMH model in adults with poor diabetes control was assessed using simulated controlled trial data obtained from the Archimedes model of disease progression and health care utilization. Using the Cardio-Metabolic Risk data set, we compared health and cost outcomes over a 20-year period between adults with poor diabetes control (HbA1c >9%) receiving standard care and these same adults receiving care under a PCMH model with a 49% HbA1c intervention improvement rate at a per-beneficiary per-month care management cost of $20 per month. The results suggest that the PCMH model has the potential to not only reduce the proportion of the population with bilateral blindness, foot amputations, and myocardial infarctions—and the mortality rate—but it can also do so in a cost-effective manner ($7898 per quality-adjusted life year). The PCMH model is cost saving for the population 50 to 64 years old and it is particularly cost-effective for men ($883 per quality-adjusted life year). Moreover, these effects are relatively large for adults 30 to 49 years old (lower bilateral blindness and death rates), women (lower foot amputation and death rates), and men (lower bilateral blindness and myocardial infarction rates). The PCMH model has potential long-term benefits to both patients with poor diabetes control as well as health care systems and providers willing to invest in this health care delivery approach.
Role of Education in HIV Clinical Outcomes in a Tuberculosis Endemic Setting
Authors: Cohen Gabriel M. , Werner Lise , Gengiah Santhanalakshmi , Naidoo Kogieleum
Published: May 2013

This study evaluated how educational attainment impacts clinical outcomes of HIV-positive patients in Durban, South Africa. The authors conducted a prospective study of 466 adult HIV-positive patients initiating antiretroviral therapy (ART) at an urban TB-HIV clinic from October 2004 to June 2007. The level of educational attainment (highest grade completed) was assessed at ART initiation. The authors measured tuberculosis treatment outcomes as well as death, lost to follow-up, viral suppression (HIV RNA <400 copies/mL), and immunologic response (CD4 ≥200 cells/mm3) at 6, 12, and 24 months after ART initiation. After 24 months of ART initiation, there were 43 deaths; viral suppression and immunologic response were observed in 88% and 83% of the remaining patients, respectively. The authors found no association between level of educational attainment and mortality ( P = .12), loss to follow-up ( P = .85), virologic response ( P = .51), or immunologic response ( P = .63). Similar findings were observed at 6 and 12 months post-ART initiation.
Factors Related to Sexual Self-Efficacy among Thai Youth Living with HIV/AIDS
Authors: Viseskul Nongkran , Fongkaew Warunee , Settheekul Saowaluck , Grimes Richard M.
Published: May 2013

Studies of sexual behavior among HIV-infected Thai youth show conflicting results due to the different ages of the respondents. This study examined the relationships between sexual self-efficacy and risk behaviors among 92 HIV-positive Thai youth aged 14 to 21 years. A questionnaire previously validated in Thailand measured sexual self-efficacy. There were low levels of sexual activity with 13 respondents having sex in the last 6 months. The sexual self-efficacy scales were inversely related to the risk behaviors of having sex, having multiple partners, and drinking alcohol in the last 6 months. The scores of the sexual self-efficacy scale and its subscales were significantly lower in those aged 17 to 21 than in 14 to 16. Sexual risk behaviors were significantly higher in those aged 17 to 21 than in 14 to 16. These findings suggest that interventions to increase sexual self-efficacy should be emphasized as HIV-infected Thai youth reach late adolescence.
Effect of multi-walled carbon nanotube reinforcement on the physical properties of poly(thiourea-azo-ether)-based nanocomposites
Authors: Kausar Ayesha , Hussain Syed T
Published: May 2013

In the current effort, heteroaromatic azo-polymer, poly(thiourea-azo-ether) was prepared using 4,4′-oxydiphenyl bis(thiourea) and diazonium salt solution of 2,6-diaminopyridine. Poly(thiourea-azo-ether) was then exploited as a matrix to synthesize new hybrid materials. Varying carbon nanotube content was melt blended with the azo-matrix. The effect of filler loading on processing and other thermo-physical properties of poly(thiourea-azo-ether)/multi-walled carbon nanotube was investigated. Homogeneous dispersion of multi-walled carbon nanotube in a polymer matrix plays a crucial role in the preparation of polymer composites based on interfacial interaction between multi-walled carbon nanotube and the polymer matrix. Field emission scanning electron microscopy micrographs revealed fine dispersal of filler and adhesion of matrix on the surface of nanotube. Accordingly, filler content from 1 to 5 wt.% increased the electrical conductivity from 2.3 to 4.8 S cm−1. Ultimate tensile strength of functional hybrids 37.39–41.23 MPa was improved relative to non-functional multi-walled carbon nanotube in matrix. Furthermore, the tensile modulus considerably increased from 9.9 to 13.3 GPa. A connection between filler loading and thermal stability of the materials was also observed. Ten percent gravimetric loss was increased from 592 to 599℃, while glass transition was enhanced from 201 to 221℃. The addition of small amount of functional multi-walled carbon nanotube strongly improved the electrical, thermal and mechanical properties of nanocomposites. The melt processing technology was so found outstanding for the improvement of the properties of multi-walled carbon nanotube-reinforced polymer nanocomposites.
The minimal important difference of the pulmonary functional status and dyspnea questionnaire in patients with severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Regueiro Eloisa MG , Burtin Chris , Baten Paul , Langer Daniel , Van Remoortel Hans , Di Lorenzo Valéria A Pires , Costa Dirceu , Janssens Wim , Decramer Marc , Gosselink Rik , Troosters Thierry
Published: May 2013

Background

The modified version of the Pulmonary Functional Status and Dyspnea Questionnaire (PFSDQ-M) is used in patients with COPD to obtain information about their functional status. It consists of 3 components (change in activities, dyspnea and fatigue) ranging from 0 to 100 and has been shown to be responsive following pulmonary rehabilitation (PR). The interpretation of changes in PFSDQ-M score after an intervention is difficult in the absence of the minimal important difference (MID) of the PFSDQ-M. This study aims at investigating the MID of the PFSDQ-M.

Methods

We enrolled 301 patients with COPD (FEV1 42 ± 15%pred) that completed the PFSDQ-M before and after a 3-month PR program (∆Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRDQ) +16 ± 12 points, ∆Six-minute walking distance (6MWD) +47 ± 89 m, both p < 0.001). An anchor-based approach consisted of calculating the correlation between the ∆PFSDQ-M and anchors with an established MID (∆CRDQ and ∆6MWD). Linear regression analyses were performed to predict the MID from these anchors. Secondly several distribution-based approaches (Cohen’s effect size, empirical rule effect size and standard error of measurement method) were used.

Results

Anchor-based estimates for the different PFSDQ-M-components were between −3 and −5 points based on CRDQ score and −6 (only calculated for change in activities) based on 6MWD. Using the distribution-based methods, the estimates of MID ranged from −3 to −5 points for the different components.

Conclusions

We concluded that the estimate of MID of the PFSDQ-M after pulmonary rehabilitation corresponds to a change of 5 points (range - 3 to −6) in each component in patients with severe COPD.
Syndecan-2 is upregulated in colorectal cancer cells through interactions with extracellular matrix produced by stromal fibroblasts
Authors: Vicente Carolina Meloni , Ricci Ritchelli , Nader Helena Bonciani , Toma Leny
Published: May 2013

Background

The extracellular matrix (ECM) influences the structure, viability and functions of cells and tissues. Recent evidence indicates that tumor cells and stromal cells interact through direct cell-cell contact, the production of ECM components and the secretion of growth factors. Syndecans are a family of transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans that are involved in cell adhesion, motility, proliferation and differentiation. Syndecan-2 has been found to be highly expressed in colorectal cancer cell lines and appears to be critical for cancer cell behavior. We have examined the effect of stromal fibroblast-produced ECM on the production of proteoglycans by colorectal cancer cell lines.

Results

Our results showed that in a highly metastatic colorectal cancer cell line, HCT-116, syndecan-2 expression is enhanced by fibroblast ECM, while the expression of other syndecans decreased. Of the various components of the stromal ECM, fibronectin was the most important in stimulating the increase in syndecan-2 expression. The co-localization of syndecan-2 and fibronectin suggests that these two molecules are involved in the adhesion of HCT-116 cells to the ECM. Additionally, we demonstrated an increase in the expression of integrins alpha-2 and beta-1, in addition to an increase in the expression of phospho-FAK in the presence of fibroblast ECM. Furthermore, blocking syndecan-2 with a specific antibody resulted in a decrease in cell adhesion, migration, and organization of actin filaments.

Conclusions

Overall, these results show that interactions between cancer cells and stromal ECM proteins induce significant changes in the behavior of cancer cells. In particular, a shift from the expression of anti-tumorigenic syndecans to the tumorigenic syndecan-2 may have implications in the migratory behavior of highly metastatic tumor cells.
RNA-seq analysis of single bovine blastocysts
Authors: Chitwood James L , Rincon Gonzalo , Kaiser German G , Medrano Juan F , Ross Pablo J
Published: May 2013

Background

Use of RNA-Seq presents unique benefits in terms of gene expression analysis because of its wide dynamic range and ability to identify functional sequence variants. This technology provides the opportunity to assay the developing embryo, but the paucity of biological material available from individual embryos has made this a challenging prospect.

Results

We report here the first application of RNA-Seq for the analysis of individual blastocyst gene expression, SNP detection, and characterization of allele specific expression (ASE). RNA was extracted from single bovine blastocysts (n = 5), amplified, and analyzed using high-throughput sequencing. Approximately 38 million sequencing reads were generated per embryo and 9,489 known bovine genes were found to be expressed, with a high correlation of expression levels between samples (r > 0.97). Transcriptomic data was analyzed to identify SNP in expressed genes, and individual SNP were examined to characterize allele specific expression. Expressed biallelic SNP variants with allelic imbalances were observed in 473 SNP, where one allele represented between 65-95% of a variant’s transcripts.

Conclusions

This study represents the first application of RNA-seq technology in single bovine embryos allowing a representation of the embryonic transcriptome and the analysis of transcript sequence variation to describe specific allele expression.
Autotoxicity mechanism of Oryza sativa: transcriptome response in rice roots exposed to ferulic acid
Authors: Chi Wen-Chang , Chen Yun-An , Hsiung Yu-Chywan , Fu Shih-Feng , Chou Chang-Hung , Trinh Ngoc Nam , Chen Ying-Chih , Huang Hao-Jen
Published: May 2013

Background

Autotoxicity plays an important role in regulating crop yield and quality. To help characterize the autotoxicity mechanism of rice, we performed a large-scale, transcriptomic analysis of the rice root response to ferulic acid, an autotoxin from rice straw.

Results

Root growth rate was decreased and reactive oxygen species, calcium content and lipoxygenase activity were increased with increasing ferulic acid concentration in roots. Transcriptome analysis revealed more transcripts responsive to short ferulic-acid exposure (1- and 3-h treatments, 1,204 genes) than long exposure (24 h, 176 genes). Induced genes were involved in cell wall formation, chemical detoxification, secondary metabolism, signal transduction, and abiotic stress response. Genes associated with signaling and biosynthesis for ethylene and jasmonic acid were upregulated with ferulic acid. Ferulic acid upregulated ATP-binding cassette and amino acid/auxin permease transporters as well as genes encoding signaling components such as leucine-rich repeat VIII and receptor-like cytoplasmic kinases VII protein kinases, APETALA2/ethylene response factor, WRKY, MYB and Zinc-finger protein expressed in inflorescence meristem transcription factors.

Conclusions

The results of a transcriptome analysis suggest the molecular mechanisms of plants in response to FA, including toxicity, detoxicification and signaling machinery. FA may have a significant effect on inhibiting rice root elongation through modulating ET and JA hormone homeostasis. FA-induced gene expression of AAAP transporters may contribute to detoxicification of the autotoxin. Moreover, the WRKY and Myb TFs and LRR-VIII and SD-2b kinases might regulate downstream genes under FA stress but not general allelochemical stress. This comprehensive description of gene expression information could greatly facilitate our understanding of the mechanisms of autotoxicity in plants.
Extracellular DNA-induced antimicrobial peptide resistance in Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium
Authors: Johnson Lori , Horsman Shawn R , Charron-Mazenod Laetitia , Turnbull Amy L , Mulcahy Heidi , Surette Michael G , Lewenza Shawn
Published: May 2013

Background

The Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium PhoPQ two component system (TCS) is activated by low Mg2+ levels, low pH and by antimicrobial peptides (AP). Under Mg2+ limitation, the PhoPQ system induces pmrD expression, which post-translationally activates the PmrAB TCS. PhoPQ and PmrAB control many genes required for intracellular survival and pathogenesis. These include the polymyxin resistance (pmr) operon, which is required for aminoarabinose modification of LPS and protecting the outer membrane from antimicrobial peptide disruption and killing. Extracellular DNA is a ubiquitous polymer in the matrix of biofilms and accumulates in some infection sites. Extracellular DNA chelates cations and thus activates the Pseudomonas aeruginosa PhoPQ/PmrAB systems, leading to expression of the orthologous arn (pmr) operon.

Results

Here we show that extracellular DNA induces expression of the S. Typhimurium pmr antimicrobial peptide resistance operon in a PhoPQ and PmrAB-dependent manner. Induction of the pmr genes by DNA was blocked when present with excess Mg2+. Exogenous DNA led to increased resistance of planktonic cultures to aminoglycosides, antimicrobial peptides (AP) and ciprofloxacin, but only AP resistance was PhoPQ/PmrAB-dependent. Extracellular DNA was shown to be a matrix component of S. Typhimurium biofilms cultivated in flow chambers and on glass surfaces. A pmrH-gfp fusion was highly expressed in flow chamber biofilms cultivated in medium with repressing levels of 10 mM Mg2+ and co-localized with eDNA. Expression of pmrH-lux was monitored in plastic peg biofilms and shown to require PhoPQ and PmrAB. Biofilms had higher levels of pmrH expression compared to planktonic cultures. We propose that DNA accumulation in biofilms contributes to the increased pmrH-lux expression in biofilms.

Conclusions

The Salmonella PhoPQ/PmrAB systems and antimicrobial peptide resistance are activated by the cation chelating properties of extracellular DNA. DNA-induced AP resistance may allow immune evasion and increased survival of S. Typhimurium biofilms formed during extracellular growth stages of an infection or outside the host.
A cross-sectional study to compare care needs of individuals with and without dementia in residential homes in the Netherlands
Authors: van der Ploeg Eva S , Bax Dieuwertje , Boorsma Marijke , Nijpels Giel , van Hout Hein PJ
Published: May 2013

Background

Little is known about met and unmet needs of individuals in residential care, many of whom suffer from dementia. Unmet needs are associated with a decreased quality of life, worse mental health, dissatisfaction with services, and increased costs of care. The aim of this study was to compare the number and type of (unmet) needs of people with and without dementia in residential care in the Netherlands.

Methods

187 individuals in residents care or their relatives were interviewed to identify their care needs on 24 topics using the Camberwell Assessment of Needs for the Elderly (CANE) interview.

Results

Individuals diagnosed with probable dementia reported more needs in total and more unmet needs in comparison with individuals without this diagnosis. More specifically, differences were found for the topics “accommodation”, “money”, “benefits”, “medication management”, “incontinence”, “memory problems”, “inadvertent self-harm”, “company” and “daytime activities”.

Conclusions

It seems that the differences in care needs between individuals with and without dementia can be attributed to actual differences in physical and cognitive functioning. Residents with dementia reported more often unmet needs which might imply that care for people with dementia can still be better attuned to their needs.
Analysis of S. Epidermidis icaA and icaD genes by polymerase chain reaction and slime production: a case control study
Authors: Zhou Shusheng , Chao Xiaoguang , Fei Mingming , Dai Yuanyuan , Liu Bao
Published: May 2013

Background

Staphylococcus epidermidis is a common pathogen in medical device-associated infections and have an ability to form adherent slime. We aimed to study the effects of icaA and icaD genes on the slime formation of Staphylococcus epidermidis associated with catheter-associated infections.

Methods

S. epidermidis isolates from the central venous catheter blood of patients with catheter-associated infections, and from the nasal vestibules of healthy volunteers, intensive care unit hospital staff, and patients, were collected. Slime phenotype was determined by Congo red agar test. The icaA/D was detected by polymerase chain reaction. Slime was examined using scanning electron microscopy.

Results

A total of 82 S. epidermidis isolates were collected. We found a statistically significant difference with regards to slime production between the clinical isolates from the catheter blood specimens and those from the nasal vestibules (p<0.05). All S. epidermidis slime positive strains isolated were icaA positive. There was a greater correlation between the presence of both icaA and icaD and the slime production than the single expression of icaA or icaD and the presence of slime in all groups. The co-expression of mecA and icaD was associated with enhanced resistance to antibiotics.

Conclusion

S. epidermidis bacteria are significant nosocomial pathogens, and icaA/D can clarify the adhesion mechanism in the pathogenesis of infections associated with medical devices. This study result could be useful for the development of rapid diagnosis for slime producing and methicillin resistant S. epidermidis strains.
Polymorphism of A133S and promoter hypermethylation in Ras association domain family 1A gene (RASSF1A) is associated with risk of esophageal and gastric cardia cancers in Chinese population from high incidence area in northern China
Authors: Zhou Sheng Li , Cui Juan , Fan Zong Min , Li Xue Min , Li Ji Lin , Liu Bao Chi , Zhang Dong Yun , Liu Hong Yan , Zhao Xue Ke , Song Xin , Wang Ran , Yan Ze Chen , Yi Hui Xing , Wang Li Dong
Published: May 2013

Background

The role of tumor suppressor gene RASSF1A in the esophageal and gastric cardia carcinogenesis is still inconclusive. In this study, the polymorphism, promoter methylation and gene expression of RASSF1A were characterized in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) and gastric cardia adenocarcinoma (GCA).

Methods

We firstly analyzed the prevalence of RASSF1A A133S in a total of 228 cancer patients with ESCC (n=112) and GCA (n=116) and 235 normal controls by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction enzyme-digestion assay. Then, the promoter methylation status of the RASSF1A in ESCC (n=143), GCA (n=92) and corresponding adjacent normal tissues were further investigated using methylation-specific PCR (MSP) approach. Finally, the RASSF1A protein expression were determined in ESCC (n=27), GCA (n=24) and the matched adjacent normal tissues by immunohistochemical method.

Results

The frequency of 133Ala/Se and Ser/Ser genotype was significantly higher in GCA patients than in normal controls (19.0% vs. 10.2%, P=0.02). Compared with Ala/Ala genotype, Ala/Se and Ser/Ser genotype significantly increased susceptibility to GCA (OR=2.06, 95% CI=1.09–3.97). However, this polymorphism had no association with ESCC (P=0.69). The promoter methylation of RASSF1A gene was significantly increased the risk to both ESCC (OR=5.90, 95% CI=2.78–12.52) and GCA (OR=7.50, 95% CI= 2.78–20.23). Promoter methylation of RASSF1A gene in ESCC was also associated with age and cancer cell differentiation (for age: OR=3.11, 95% CI=1.10–8.73; for differentiation: OR=0.29, 95% CI=0.12–0.69). RASSF1A positive expression was significantly decreased the risk of GCA (OR=0.16, 95% CI=0.03–0.83). In contrast, there was no statistical significance between RASSF1A positive expression and ESCC. The expression of RASSF1A protein trend to be positively related with older GCA patients (OR=16.20, 95% CI=1.57–167.74).

Conclusions

The present findings suggest that alterations of RASSF1A may play an important role in gastric cardia carcinogenesis in terms of polymorphism, promoter hypermethylation and protein expression. Whereas, RASSF1A hypermethylation may probably also be involved in esophageal squamous cell carcinogenesis.
Effects of a Brief Qigong-based Stress Reduction Program (BQSRP) in a distressed Korean population: a randomized trial
Authors: Hwang Eun-Young , Chung Sun-Yong , Cho Jae-Heung , Song Mi-Yeon , Kim Sehyun , Kim Jong-Woo
Published: May 2013

Background

Distressed individuals in Korea may benefit from the practice of mind–body exercises such as Qigong. However, the effectiveness of such techniques needs to be investigated.

Methods

Fifty participants who were eligible to this study were randomized into a group receiving a 4-week intervention of a brief Qigong-based stress reduction program (BQSRP) or a wait-list control group. Before and after the intervention period, saliva samples were collected and questionnaires were completed on perceived stress, anxiety, “Hwa-Byung” (anger syndrome), and quality of life. Salivary cortisol has emerged in mind-body therapy research as an easy-to-collect, relatively inexpensive, biologic marker of stress. Salivary corisol were collected to evaluate physiological effect of BQSRP. Between-group comparisons of change from baseline to study completion were analyzed by analysis of covariance for the Perceived Stress Scale and independent two sample t- tests for other measures.

Results

Compared with the control group, the BQSRP intervention group displayed significantly larger decreases in Perceived Stress Scale scores (p = 0.0006), State Anxiety scores (p = 0.0028), Trait Anxiety scores (p < 0.0001), personality subscale scores of the Hwa-Byung Scale (p = 0.0321), symptoms scores of the Hwa-Byung Scale (p = 0.0196), and a significantly larger increase in World Health Organization Quality of Life Abbreviated version scores (p s < .05). Salivary cortisol levels were not changed.

Conclusions

The BQSRP appears to be effective in reducing stress perception, anxiety, anger, and improving quality of life (KCT0000056).
3,4-dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid and (+)-epoxydon isolated from marine algae-derived microorganisms induce down regulation of epidermal growth factor activated mitogenic signaling cascade in Hela cells
Authors: Jo Mi Jeong , Bae Seong Ja , Son Byeng Wha , Kim Chi Yeon , Kim Gun Do
Published: May 2013

Background

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) is a member of the receptor tyrosine kinase (RTK) family. Epidermal growth factor induces its dimerization and stimulates phosphorylation of intracellular tyrosine residues. Phosphorylation of EGFR is studied for cancer therapy because EGFR regulates many cellular processes including cell proliferation, differentiation, and survival. Hence, down-regulation of EGFR kinase activity results in inhibition of signaling cascades amenable for proliferation and progression of cell cycle.

Methods

In the study, we purified 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid and (+)-epoxydon from Aspergillus sp. isolated from marine brown alga Ishige okamurae and Phoma herbarum isolated from marine red alga Hypnea saidana respectively and determined its anti-tumor activities against HeLa human cervical cancer cells.

Results

Two compounds suppressed EGFR activity in vitro with IC50 values for 3,4-dihydroxyphenyl acetic acid and (+)-epoxydon were 2.8 and 0.6 μg/mL respectively and reduced the viable numbers of HeLa cells. Immunoblotting analysis exhibited that the compounds induced inhibition of cell growth by causing downregulation of the mitogenic signaling cascade, inactivation of p90RSK, and release of cytochrome c from mitochondria.

Conclusions

Results suggest that decreased expression of active EGFR and EGFR-related downstream molecules by treatment with the compounds may results in the inhibition of cell growth and inducement of apoptosis.