bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protective action of erythropoietin on neuronal damage induced by activated microglia
Authors: Wenker Shirley D. , Chamorro María E. , Vittori Daniela C. , Nesse Alcira B.
Published: February 2013

Inflammation is a physiological defense response, but may also represent a potential pathological process in neurological diseases. In this regard, microglia have a crucial role in either progression or amelioration of degenerative neuronal damage. Because of the role of hypoxia in pro‐inflammatory mechanisms in the nervous system, and the potential anti‐inflammatory protective effect of erythropoietin (Epo), we focused our investigation on the role of this factor on activation of microglia and neuroprotection. Activation of microglial cells (EOC‐2) was achieved by chemical hypoxia induced by cobalt chloride (CoCl2) and characterized by increased levels of nitrite, tumor necrosis factor‐α and reactive oxygen species production, as well as up‐regulation of inducible nitric oxide synthase expression. Under these conditions, cell proliferation data and proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) staining demonstrated a mitogenic effect of chemical hypoxia. Even though pre‐treatment with Epo did not prevent nitrite production, inducible nitric oxide synthase protein expression or tumor necrosis factor‐α secretion, it prevented the oxidative stress induced by CoCl2 as well as cell proliferation. Neuronal cells (SH‐SY5Y) cultured in the presence of conditioned medium from activated EOC‐2 cells or macrophages (RAW 264.7) developed significant apoptosis, an effect that was abolished by Epo via Epo/Epo receptor activation. The results show that even though Epo did not exert a direct anti‐inflammatory effect on microglia activation, it did increase the resistance of neurons to subsequent damage from pro‐inflammatory agents. In addition to its anti‐apoptotic ability, the Epo antioxidant effect may have an indirect influence on neuronal survival by modulation of the pro‐inflammatory environment.
Mapping of matrix metalloproteinase cleavage sites on syndecan‐1 and syndecan‐4 ectodomains
Authors: Manon‐Jensen Tina , Multhaupt Hinke A. B. , Couchman John R.
Published: February 2013

Syndecans are transmembrane heparan sulfate proteoglycans with roles in cell proliferation, differentiation, adhesion, and migration. They have been associated with multiple functions in tumour progression, through their ability to interact with a wide range of ligands as well as other receptors, which makes them key effectors in the pericellular microenvironment. Extracellular shedding of syndecans by tumour‐associated matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may have an important role in tumour progression. Such ectodomain shedding generates soluble ectodomains that may function as paracrine or autocrine effectors, or as competitive inhibitors of the intact proteoglycan. Tumour‐associatedMMPs are shown here to cleave the ectodomains of human syndecan‐1 and syndecan‐4. Two membrane proximal regions of both syndecan‐1 and syndecan‐4 are favouredMMPcleavage sites, six and 15 residues from the transmembrane domain. Other sites are 35–40 residues C‐terminal from the heparan sulfate chain substitution sites in both syndecans. TheMT1‐MMPcleavage sites in syndecan‐1 and syndecan‐4 were confirmed by site‐directed mutagenesis. These findings provide insights into the characteristics of syndecan shedding.
The transferrin receptor‐1 membrane stub undergoes intramembrane proteolysis by signal peptide peptidase‐like 2b
Authors: Zahn Claudia , Kaup Matthias , Fluhrer Regina , Fuchs Hendrik
Published: February 2013

The successive events of shedding and regulated intramembrane proteolysis are known to comprise a fundamental biological process of type I and II membrane proteins (e.g. amyloid precursor protein, Notch receptor and pro‐tumor necrosis factor‐α). Some of the resulting fragments were shown to be involved in important intra‐ and extracellular signalling events. Although shedding of the human transferrin receptor‐1 (TfR1) has been known for > 30 years and soluble TfR1 is an accepted diagnostic marker, the fate of the remaining N‐terminal fragment (NTF) remains unknown. In the present study, we demonstrate for the first time that TfR1‐NTF is subject to regulated intramembrane proteolysis and, using MALDI‐TOF‐TOF‐MS, we have identified the cleavage site as being located C‐terminal from Gly‐84. We showed that the resulting C‐terminal peptide is extracellularly released after regulated intramembrane proteolysis and it was detected as a monomer with an internal disulfide bridge. We further identified signal peptide peptidase‐like 2a and mainly signal peptide peptidase‐like 2b as being responsible for the intramembrane proteolysis of TfR1‐NTF.
How much land‐based greenhouse gas mitigation can be achieved without compromising food security and environmental goals?
Authors: Smith Pete , Haberl Helmut , Popp Alexander , Erb Karl‐heinz , Lauk Christian , Harper Richard , Tubiello Francesco N. , de Siqueira Pinto Alexandre , Jafari Mostafa , Sohi Saran , Masera Omar , Böttcher Hannes , Berndes Göran , Bustamante Mercedes , Ahammad Helal , Clark Harry , Dong Hongmin , Elsiddig Elnour A. , Mbow Cheikh , Ravindranath Nijavalli H. , Rice Charles W. , Robledo Abad Carmenza , Romanovskaya Anna , Sperling Frank , Herrero Mario , House Joanna I. , Rose Steven
Published: February 2013

Feeding 9–10 billion people by 2050 and preventing dangerous climate change are two of the greatest challenges facing humanity. Both challenges must be met while reducing the impact of land management on ecosystem services that deliver vital goods and services, and support human health and well‐being. Few studies to date have considered the interactions between these challenges. In this study we briefly outline the challenges, review the supply‐ and demand‐side climate mitigation potential available in the Agriculture, Forestry and Other Land Use AFOLU sector and options for delivering food security. We briefly outline some of the synergies and trade‐offs afforded by mitigation practices, before presenting an assessment of the mitigation potential possible in theAFOLUsector under possible future scenarios in which demand‐side measures codeliver to aid food security. We conclude that while supply‐side mitigation measures, such as changes in land management, might either enhance or negatively impact food security, demand‐side mitigation measures, such as reduced waste or demand for livestock products, should benefit both food security and greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation. Demand‐side measures offer a greater potential (1.5–15.6 GtCO2‐eq. yr−1) in meeting both challenges than do supply‐side measures (1.5–4.3 GtCO2‐eq. yr−1at carbon prices between 20 and 100 US$ tCO2‐eq. yr−1), but given the enormity of challenges, all options need to be considered. Supply‐side measures should be implemented immediately, focussing on those that allow the production of more agricultural product per unit of input. For demand‐side measures, given the difficulties in their implementation and lag in their effectiveness, policy should be introduced quickly, and should aim to codeliver to other policy agenda, such as improving environmental quality or improving dietary health. These problems facing humanity in the 21st Century are extremely challenging, and policy that addresses multiple objectives is required now more than ever.
Enhanced root exudation stimulates soil nitrogen transformations in a subalpine coniferous forest under experimental warming
Authors: Yin Huajun , Li Yufei , Xiao Juan , Xu Zhenfeng , Cheng Xinyin , Liu Qing
Published: February 2013

Despite the perceived importance of exudation to forest ecosystem function, few studies have attempted to examine the effects of elevated temperature and nutrition availability on the rates of root exudation and associated microbial processes. In this study, we performed an experiment in whichin situexudates were collected fromPicea asperataseedlings that were transplanted in disturbed soils exposed to two levels of temperature (ambient temperature and infrared heater warming) and two nitrogen levels (unfertilized and 25 g N m−2 a−1). Here, we show that the trees exposed to an elevated temperature increased their exudation rates I (μg C g−1root biomass h−1), II (μg C cm−1 root length h−1) and III (μg C cm−2 root area h−1) in the unfertilized plots. The altered morphological and physiological traits of the roots exposed to experimental warming could be responsible for this variation in root exudation. Moreover, these increases in root‐derived C were positively correlated with the microbial release of extracellular enzymes involved in the breakdown of organic N (R2 = 0.790;P = 0.038), which was coupled with stimulated microbial activity and accelerated N transformations in the unfertilized soils. In contrast, the trees exposed to both experimental warming and N fertilization did not show increased exudation rates or soil enzyme activity, indicating that the stimulatory effects of experimental warming on root exudation depend on soil fertility. Collectively, our results provide preliminary evidence that an increase in the release of root exudates into the soil may be an important physiological adjustment by which the sustained growth responses of plants to experimental warming may be maintained via enhanced soil microbial activity and soil N transformation. Accordingly, the underlying mechanisms by which plant root‐microbe interactions influence soil organic matter decomposition and N cycling should be incorporated into climate‐carbon cycle models to determine reliable estimates of long‐term C storage in forests.
Poroelastic Effects on Fracture Characterization
Authors: Burbey Thomas J.
Published: February 2013

Reverse water‐level fluctuations have been widely observed in aquitards or aquifers separated from a pumped confined aquifer (Noordbergum effect) immediately after the initiation of pumping. This same reverse fluctuation has been observed in a fractured crystalline‐rock aquifer at the Coles Hill uranium site in Virginia in which the reverse water‐level response occurs within a pumped fracture and results from an instantaneous strain response to pumping that precedes the pore‐pressure response in observation wells of sufficient distance from the pumped well. This response is referred to as the Mandel‐Cryer effect. The unique aspect of this water level rise during a controlled 24 h pumping test was that the reverse water levels lasted for approximately 100 min and reached a magnitude of nearly 1 cm prior to a typical drawdown response. The duration and magnitude of the response reflects the poromechanical properties of the fractured host rock and hydraulic properties of the pumped fracture. An axisymmetric flow and deformation model were developed using Biot2 in an effort to simulate the observed water‐level response along an assumed 0.5 to 1.0 cm aperture horizontal fracture 176 m from the pumping well and to identify the importance of the poroelastic effect. Results indicate that traditional aquifer‐testing methods that ignore the poromechanical response are not significantly different than results that include the response. However, the poroelastic effect allows for more accurate and efficient parameter calibration.
A Meta‐Analysis of the Impact of EPC Capture Stent on the Clinical Outcomes in Patients with Coronary Artery Disease
Authors: LIU WEI , PENG YONG , WU BO , LI QIAO , CHAI HUA , REN XIN , WANG XUEQIN , ZHAO ZHENGANG , CHEN MAO , HUANG DE‐JIA
Published: February 2013

Background

Damage to the vascular endothelium may be one of the pathophysiological causes of in‐stent thrombosis and restenosis. Endothelial progenitor cell (EPC) capture stents (ECS) have the ability to accelerate the damage repair process. However, the clinical outcomes of ECS remain unknown thus far.

Objectives

To evaluate the impact of ECS use on the clinical outcomes of patients with coronary artery disease by comparing ECS to drug‐eluting stent (DES) and/or bare metal stent (BMS).

Methods

Studies and abstracts were retrieved from the PubMed, Cochrane Library, and EMBASE online databases and from the conference compilations of the American Heart Association (AHA), the American College of Cardiology (ACC), and Transcatheter Cardiovascular Therapeutics (TCT). These studies were analyzed to investigate whether there was a difference in the clinical therapeutic effects between the ECS group and the DES/BMS group. The primary clinical end‐point events were in‐stent thrombosis and target lesion revascularization (TLR). The secondary clinical end‐point events were target lesion failure (TLF), total mortality, cardiac death, and myocardial infarction (MI).

Results

A total of 2,024 patients were enrolled in the analysis of in‐stent thrombosis. There was no significant difference in the incidence of in‐stent thrombosis between the ECS group and the DES/BMS group. A total of 1,745 patients were enrolled in the analysis of TLR, and there was no significant difference in the TLR incidence between the ECS group and the DES/BMS group. However, compared with DES, the TLR incidence for ECS increased 1.73‐fold (relative risk [RR]: 1.73, 95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 1.01–2.94, P = 0.04). Moreover, the incidence of cardiac death and TLF also increased 3.54‐fold (RR: 3.54, 95% CI: 1.13–11.08, P = 0.03) and 1.90‐fold (RR: 1.90, 95% CI: 1.05–3.45, P = 0.03), respectively. But compared with BMS, there is no significance of the clinical events.

Conclusion

Compared with DES/BMS use, ECS use may not reduce the incidence of in‐stent thrombosis and TLR. In addition, the incidence of TLR and cardiac death with ECS is possibly relatively higher compared with DES and no difference compared with BMS, but this also needs more large RCTs to guarantee. (J Interven Cardiol 2013;26:228–238)
Sexual Rehabilitation and Cancer Survivorship: A State of Art Review of Current Literature and Management Strategies in Male Sexual Dysfunction Among Prostate Cancer Survivors
Authors: Chung Eric , Brock Gerald
Published: February 2013

Introduction

The challenges for prostate cancer survivors include the surveillance of prostate cancer recurrence and management of physical, cognitive, sexual, and socioeconomic quality of life issues. Sexual function remains an important issue in men, who often continue to be interested in sex after prostate cancer treatment. The various post-prostate cancer treatment-related sexual dysfunctions are penile deformities and erectile dysfunction (ED); sexual desire and mental health; ejaculatory and orgasmic dysfunctions; and changes in partner relationship and dynamics.

Aims

The aim of this study is to provide state of art review of the various male sexual dysfunctions in prostate cancer survivors and the management strategies in sexual rehabilitation.

Methods and Materials

A literature search for English language original and review articles either published or e-published was performed using PubMed database. Keywords included prostate cancer, prostate cancer treatment, prostate prostatectomy (RP), sexual dysfunction, erectile dysfunction (ED), sexual desire, mental health, ejaculation, orgasmic, climacturia, and relationship.

Results

There has been considerable volume of publication in recent years on prostate cancer-related male sexual dysfunction. Penile deformities and ED shared similar pathophysiology and that penile smooth muscle fibrosis ultimately results in structural alterations and end-organ failure. Penile rehabilitation using oral phosphodiesterase type 5 (PDE5) inhibitors is considered the standard of care especially in patients who received nerve-sparing RP and should be instituted as soon as possible to protect and prevent corporal endothelial and smooth muscle damage. However, there is no consensus on the exact timing, dose, and duration of PDE5 inhibitors and its impact in non-nerve-sparing RP and other forms of prostate cancer treatment modalities. Current literature on hypoactive sexual desire, ejaculatory, and orgasmic dysfunctions in patients who received prostate cancer treatment is limited. Psychological and sexual counseling play an important role in rehabilitation and treatment of various forms of male sexual dysfunctions.

Conclusion

While several preventive and treatment strategies for the preservation and recovery of sexual function are available, no specific recommendation or consensus guidelines exist regarding the optimal rehabilitation or treatment protocol. While medical and surgical therapies are effective in erectile function recovery and/or preservation, psychological and sexual counseling are equally important in sexual rehabilitation.
Change in food ingestion induces rapid shifts in the diversity of microbiota associated with cutaneous mucus of Atlantic salmon Salmo salar
Authors: Landeira‐Dabarca A. , Sieiro C. , Álvarez M.
Published: February 2013

To test the hypothesis that a switch in diet might cause changes in the abundance and composition of mucous‐dwelling microorganisms, a short‐term experiment was conducted with Atlantic salmon Salmo salar. Fish were fed on three different diets: pelleted S. salar feed, macroinvertebrates or pellets supplemented with an antibiotic. A fourth group of fish was deprived of food throughout the trial. Seven days after manipulating diets, significant differences were found in microbial density and community composition (quantified by different morphologically distinct colonies), particularly between fed and unfed animals. Moreover, food deprivation caused a rapid decrease in the number of epidermal mucous cells of the lateral skin, which may indicate a decrease in mucous secretion and explain differences in the diversity of mucous‐dwelling microbiota observed in the fish. This is the first report of an effect of feeding regime on the abundance of microbial communities associated with cutaneous mucus of fishes.
Essentials of Standard Chinese Phonetics for Prosthetic Dentistry
Authors: Hu Xiulian , Lin Ye , Hunold Cordula , Nelson Katja
Published: February 2013

Speech adaptation after oral rehabilitation is based on a complex interaction of articulatory and myofunctional factors. The knowledge of basic phonetic principles may help clinicians identify phonetic problems associated with prosthodontic treatment. The purpose of this article is to illustrate basic phonetic terminology, standard Chinese (Putonghua) phonetics, and the anatomic structures relevant for dentistry. In cooperation with a Chinese linguistic specialist, Chinese articulators were selected and are described and compared with English phonetics. Established test words and sentences aid the identification of mispronounced articulators and their related dental structures. The pronunciation of most consonants and vowels in standard Chinese is similar to English, but some of them, such as the retropalatals (/zh/ [tʂ], /ch/ [thʂ], /sh/ [ʂ]), have notable differences. Palatal consonants (/j/ [tɕ], /q/ [tɕh], /x/ [ɕ]) are unique to the Chinese phonetic system and are not found in English phonetics. The comprehension of the basic anatomic regions involved in Chinese phonetics may help prosthodontists treat patients whose native language is standard Chinese.
Updated Clinical Considerations for Dental Implant Therapy in Irradiated Head and Neck Cancer Patients
Authors: Tanaka Takako Imai , Chan Hsun‐Liang , Tindle David Ira , MacEachern Mark , Oh Tae‐Ju
Published: February 2013

An increasing number of reports indicate successful use of dental implants (DI) during oral rehabilitation for head and neck cancer patients undergoing tumor surgery and radiation therapy. Implant‐supported dentures are a viable option when patients cannot use conventional dentures due to adverse effects of radiation therapy, including oral dryness or fragile mucosa, in addition to compromised anatomy; however, negative effects of radiation, including osteoradionecrosis, are well documented in the literature, and early loss of implants in irradiated bone has been reported. There is currently no consensus concerning DI safety or clinical guidelines for their use in irradiated head and neck cancer patients. It is important for health care professionals to be aware of the multidimensional risk factors for these patients when planning oral rehabilitation with DIs, and to provide optimal treatment options and maximize the overall treatment outcome. This paper reviews and updates the impact of radiotherapy on DI survival and discusses clinical considerations for DI therapy in irradiated head and neck cancer patients.
Androgen Deprivation Therapy Impact on Quality of Life and Cardiovascular Health, Monitoring Therapeutic Replacement
Authors: Trost Landon W. , Serefoglu Ege , Gokce Ahmet , Linder Brian J. , Sartor Alton O. , Hellstrom Wayne J.G.
Published: February 2013

Introduction

Androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is commonly utilized in the management of both localized and advanced adenocarcinoma of the prostate. The use of ADT is associated with several adverse events, physical changes, and development of medical comorbidities/mortality.

Aim

The current article reviews known adverse events associated with ADT as well as treatment options, where available. Current recommendations and guidelines are cited for ongoing monitoring of patients receiving ADT.

Methods

A PubMed search of topics relating to ADT and adverse outcomes was performed, with select articles highlighted and reviewed based on level of evidence and overall contribution.

Main Outcome Measures

Reported outcomes of studies detailing adverse effects of ADT were reviewed and discussed. Where available, randomized trials and meta-analyses were reported.

Results

ADT may result in several adverse events including decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, vasomotor symptoms, cognitive, psychological and quality of life impairments, weight gain, sarcopenia, increased adiposity, gynecomastia, reduced penile/testicular size, hair changes, periodontal disease, osteoporosis, increased fracture risk, diabetes and insulin resistance, hyperlipidemia, and anemia. The definitive impact of ADT on lipid profiles, cardiovascular morbidity/mortality, and all-cause mortality is currently unknown with available data. Treatment options to reduce ADT-related adverse events include changing to an intermittent treatment schedule, biophysical therapy, counseling, and pharmacotherapy.

Conclusions

Patients treated with ADT are at increased risk of several adverse events and should be routinely monitored for the development of potentially significant morbidity/mortality. Where appropriate, physicians should reduce known risk factors and counsel patients as to known risks and benefits of therapy.
Communication and Intimacy-Enhancing Interventions for Men Diagnosed with Prostate Cancer and Their Partners
Authors: Nelson Christian J. , Kenowitz Joslyn
Published: February 2013

Introduction

The sexual dysfunction following prostate cancer treatments often leads to a reduction in intimate contact for couples. A number of psychosocial interventions have been developed to enhance intimacy in these couples. This paper reviews three of these interventions and is a summary of a presentation given as part of a symposium at the 2011 Cancer Survivorship and Sexual Health Meeting.

Aim

The goal of this presentation was to: (i) review three types of psychosocial interventions; and (ii) describe the methodological issues highlighted by these interventions.

Main Outcome Measures

Validated measures of relationship intimacy and communication.

Methods

To be selected, the interventions had to be: a randomized control trial, focus on a couples approach to therapy, and report at least one relationship outcome.

Results

The results were not consistent within or across studies, and suggest that some specific aspects of the interventions may be helpful for the patient, while other aspects of the studies may be helpful for the partner. The Northouse et al. study suggests that partners may benefit from a focus on couple work, as compared to the patient. The Canada et al. study indicates that when focusing on sexual functioning, working with a couple did not show significant benefit compared to working with a man alone. The study did show, however, that a sexual-based intervention can improve the use of erectile dysfunction treatments and suggests patients may benefit from specific focus on side effects of treatment. The Manne et al. study highlights the importance of targeting these interventions to couples who report distress, and for distressed couples, an intervention can show positive results.

Conclusions

Intimacy enhancing interventions can be effective for couples, while the partners may benefit more from couples work; the patients may benefit more from focus on specific side effects.
An evaluation of the FDA Responder Endpoint for IBS‐C clinical trials: analysis of data from linaclotide Phase 3 clinical trials
Authors: MacDougall J. E. , Johnston J. M. , Lavins B. J. , Nelson L. M. , Williams V. S. L. , Carson R. T. , Shiff S. J. , Shi K. , Kurtz C. B. , Baird M. J. , Currie M. G. , Lembo A. J.
Published: February 2013

Background

Our objective was to evaluate the performance of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Responder Endpoint for clinical trials in IBS‐C, using data from two large Phase 3 clinical trials of linaclotide. The FDA interim endpoint requires that, for 50% of trial weeks, patients report ≥30% decrease in Abdominal Pain at its worst and (in the same week) an increase in Complete Spontaneous Bowel Movements (CSBMs) of ≥1 from baseline.

Methods

Anchor‐based methodology was used to estimate thresholds of clinically meaningful change using symptom‐specific patient rating of change questions (PRCQs) and symptom severity questions. The diagnostic accuracy of the FDA Responder Endpoint was assessed using sensitivity/specificity‐based methods.

Key Results

Using anchor‐based methods, the estimates of the clinically meaningful improvement thresholds for Abdominal Pain ranged from 25.9% to 32.4% and thresholds for increase in weekly CSBM rate ranged from 1.4 to 1.6 CSBMs per week. Compared with the symptom‐specific PRCQs for patient rating of relief, the FDA Responder Endpoint has a sensitivity of 60.7%, a specificity of 93.5%, and an accuracy of 82.0%. Changing the number of weeks required to be a responder or the percentage improvement in the Abdominal Pain criteria did not result in notable improvement in the accuracy of the FDA Responder Endpoint.

Conclusions & Inferences

The FDA Responder Endpoint for IBS‐C clinical trials represents clinically meaningful improvements in IBS‐C symptoms for patients with excellent specificity and reasonable sensitivity.
Responses of belowground carbon allocation dynamics to extended shading in mountain grassland
Authors: Bahn Michael , Lattanzi Fernando A. , Hasibeder Roland , Wild Birgit , Koranda Marianne , Danese Valentina , Brüggemann Nicolas , Schmitt Michael , Siegwolf Rolf , Richter Andreas
Published: February 2013

Carbon (C) allocation strongly influences plant and soil processes. Short‐term C allocation dynamics in ecosystems and their responses to environmental changes are still poorly understood.

Using in situ 13CO2 pulse labeling, we studied the effects of 1 wk of shading on the transfer of recent photoassimilates between sugars and starch of above‐ and belowground plant organs and to soil microbial communities of a mountain meadow.

C allocation to roots and microbial communities was rapid. Shading strongly reduced sucrose and starch concentrations in shoots, but not roots, and affected tracer dynamics in sucrose and starch of shoots, but not roots: recent C was slowly incorporated into root starch irrespective of the shading treatment. Shading reduced leaf respiration more strongly than root respiration. It caused no reduction in the amount of 13C incorporated into fungi and Gram‐negative bacteria, but increased its residence time.

These findings suggest that, under interrupted C supply, belowground C allocation (as reflected by the amount of tracer allocated to root starch, soil microbial communities and belowground respiration) was maintained at the expense of aboveground C status, and that C source strength may affect the turnover of recent plant‐derived C in soil microbial communities.
Biosynthesis, function and metabolic engineering of plant volatile organic compounds
Authors: Dudareva Natalia , Klempien Antje , Muhlemann Joëlle K. , Kaplan Ian
Published: February 2013

Plants synthesize an amazing diversity of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that facilitate interactions with their environment, from attracting pollinators and seed dispersers to protecting themselves from pathogens, parasites and herbivores. Recent progress in ‐omics technologies resulted in the isolation of genes encoding enzymes responsible for the biosynthesis of many volatiles and contributed to our understanding of regulatory mechanisms involved in VOC formation. In this review, we largely focus on the biosynthesis and regulation of plant volatiles, the involvement of floral volatiles in plant reproduction as well as their contribution to plant biodiversity and applications in agriculture via crop–pollinator interactions. In addition, metabolic engineering approaches for both the improvement of plant defense and pollinator attraction are discussed in light of methodological constraints and ecological complications that limit the transition of crops with modified volatile profiles from research laboratories to real‐world implementation.

Contents

Summary
16

I.
Biosynthesis of volatile plant secondary metabolites and its interconnection with primary metabolism
16

II.
Regulation of volatile emission in plants
22

III.
Functions of plant volatile organic compounds
23

IV.
Metabolic engineering of plant volatiles
25

V.
Conclusions
27

Acknowledgements
28

References
28
Allopolyploidy has a moderate impact on restructuring at three contrasting transposable element insertion sites in resynthesized Brassica napus allotetraploids
Authors: Sarilar Véronique , Palacios Paulina Martinez , Rousselet Agnès , Ridel Céline , Falque Matthieu , Eber Frédérique , Chèvre Anne‐Marie , Joets Johann , Brabant Philippe , Alix Karine
Published: February 2013

The role played by whole‐genome duplication (WGD) in evolution and adaptation is particularly well illustrated in allopolyploids, where WGD is concomitant with interspecific hybridization. This ‘Genome Shock’, usually accompanied by structural and functional modifications, has been associated with the activation of transposable elements (TEs). However, the impact of allopolyploidy on TEs has been studied in only a few polyploid species, and not in Brassica, which has been marked by recurrent polyploidy events.

Here, we developed sequence‐specific amplification polymorphism (SSAP) markers for three contrasting TEs, and compared profiles between resynthesized Brassica napus allotetraploids and their diploid Brassica progenitors. To evaluate restructuring at TE insertion sites, we scored changes in SSAP profiles and analysed a large set of differentially amplified SSAP bands.

No massive structural changes associated with the three TEs surveyed were detected. However, several transposition events, specific to the youngest TE originating from the B. oleracea genome, were identified.

Our study supports the hypothesis that TE responses to allopolyploidy are highly specific. The changes observed in SSAP profiles lead us to hypothesize that they may partly result from changes in DNA methylation, questioning the role of epigenetics during the formation of a new allopolyploid genome.
Gossypiboma following mandible surgery: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Jamjoom F.Z. , Kallukaran F.
Published: February 2013

Background

Gossypiboma, a foreign‐body granuloma induced by a retained surgical sponge, has rarely been reported in relation to the facial bones. The aim of this article is to draw attention to this potentially serious complication.

Case presentation

A 37‐year‐old Middle Eastern female reported to the clinic because of pain, mild swelling and paraesthesia in the anterior mandible area. Her symptoms started 2 years earlier shortly after chin implant surgery that was complicated by a local infection requiring removal of the implant. On clinical examination, there was mild swelling and tenderness in the anterior mandible region. A panoramic radiograph, a computed tomography (CT) scan and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) showed bilateral well‐defined cystic lesions in the parasymphyseal area of the mandible. The patient underwent trephine bone biopsy followed by complete excision of the lesion. Histopathological examination revealed foreign‐body granuloma with foreign bodies consistent with gauze, typical findings of gossypiboma. The patient made unremarkable post‐operative recovery and her preoperative symptoms subsided completely.

Conclusion

Gossypiboma is a rare complication of mandibular surgery. It should be considered in patients with persistent post‐operative complaints. CT scan and MRI are the imaging methods of choice in suspected cases. Complete surgical excision is adequate to alleviate the patient's symptoms.
NbPHAN, a MYB transcriptional factor, regulates leaf development and affects drought tolerance in Nicotiana benthamiana
Authors: Huang Changjun , Hu Gaojie , Li Fangfang , Li Yunqin , Wu Jianxiang , Zhou Xueping
Published: February 2013

MYB transcriptional factors, characterized by the presence of conserved DNA‐binding domains (BDs) (MYB domain), are involved in diverse processes including plant growth, development, metabolic and stress responses. In this study, a new R2R3‐type MYB gene, NbPHAN (Nicotiana benthamiana PHANTASTICA), was identified in N. benthamiana. The NbPHAN encodes a protein of 362 amino acids and shares high sequence identities with the AS1‐RS2‐PHANs (ARPs) from other plant species. The NbPHAN protein targets to and forms homodimers in the nucleus. The MYB domain and C‐terminal region of NbPHAN determine its subcellular localization and homodimerization, respectively. Using virus‐induced gene silencing, we showed that the NbPHAN‐silenced leaves exhibited severe downward curling and abnormal growth of blades along the main veins through suppressing the expression of the NTH20 gene. In addition, we found NbPHAN plays an important role in drought tolerance. The NbPHAN‐silenced plants exhibited severe wilting and increased rate of water loss than that found in the non‐silenced plants when growing under the water deficit condition. Although abscisic acid accumulation was not altered in the NbPHAN‐silenced plants as compared with that in the non‐silenced plants, several other stress‐inducible genes were clearly repressed under the water deficit condition. Our results provide strong evidence that other than controlling leaf development, the ARP genes can also regulate plant tolerance to drought stress.
Bad Sports: Explaining Sport Related Deviance
Authors: Sefiha Ophir
Published: February 2013

While sometimes dismissed as an unimportant subject for analysis, the study of sport has offered important insights into our social world. Yet the academic study of sport‐related deviance has not kept pace with the explosion of popular media products regarding deviance in sport over the past four decades. This can be explained in part by the sheer diversity of sport related deviance which defies applying a singular theoretical explanation. A number of approaches from the sociology of sport and other social sciences offer useful ways of making sense of sport related rule‐breaking while also providing valuable insights into larger questions regarding crime and deviance. This paper reviews three contemporary perspectives used in the study of sport deviance: deviant overconformity, moral panics and consumptive deviance. Drawing from exemplary studies of performance‐enhancing drug use, hooligan violence, and sport celebrity scandals, I highlight the ways in which these perspectives offer a “sociological corrective” to media misrepresentations as well as insights that extend beyond sport and into contemporary social issues including race and gender relations, economic inequalities, crime, youth violence, and celebrity culture. I conclude by addressing new developments and avenues for future research.
Framing in Mass Communication Research – An Overview and Assessment
Authors: Vliegenthart Rens
Published: February 2013

This article provides an overview of the use of the framing concept in mass communication research. It focuses on the questions what a frame is and how it is measured, how variation in framing can be explained and what the effects of media framing are. Specific attention will be paid to the sociological origins of framing. The article concludes with recommendations for future research. It argues that a more systematic and conceptually precise measurement of framing is warranted and suggests how the scope of frame‐building and framing‐effects studies can be extended.
The effectiveness of birth plans in increasing use of skilled care at delivery and postnatal care in rural Tanzania: a cluster randomised trial
Authors: Magoma Moke , Requejo Jennifer , Campbell Oona , Cousens Simon , Merialdi Mario , Filippi Veronique
Published: February 2013

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness of birth plans in increasing use of skilled care at delivery and in the postnatal period among antenatal care (ANC) attendees in a rural district with low occupancy of health units for delivery but high antenatal care uptake in northern Tanzania.

Methods

Cluster randomised trial in Ngorongoro district, Arusha region, involving 16 health units (8 per arm). Nine hundred and five pregnant women at 24 weeks of gestation and above (404 in the intervention arm) were recruited and followed up to at least 1 month postpartum.

Results

Skilled delivery care uptake was 16.8% higher in the intervention units than in the control [95% CI 2.6–31.0; P = 0.02]. Postnatal care utilisation in the first month of delivery was higher (difference in proportions: 30.0% [95% CI 1.3–47.7; P < 0.01]) and also initiated earlier (mean duration 6.6 ± 1.7 days vs. 20.9 ± 4.4 days, P < 0.01) in the intervention than in the control arm. Women's and providers' reports of care satisfaction (received or provided) did not differ greatly between the two arms of the study (difference in proportion: 12.1% [95% CI –6.3–30.5] P = 0.17 and 6.9% [95% CI –3.2–17.1] P = 0.15, respectively).

Conclusion

Implementation of birth plans during ANC can increase the uptake of skilled delivery and post delivery care in the study district without negatively affecting women's and providers' satisfaction with available ANC services. Birth plans should be considered along with the range of other recommended interventions as a strategy to improve the uptake of maternal health services.
Rab24 is Required for Normal Cell Division
Authors: Militello Rodrigo D. , Munafó Daniela B. , Berón Walter , López Luis A. , Monier Solange , Goud Bruno , Colombo María I.
Published: February 2013

Rab24 is an atypical member of the Rab GTPase family whose distribution in interphase cells has been characterized; however, its function remains largely unknown. In this study, we have analyzed the distribution of Rab24 throughout cell division. We have observed that Rab24 was located at the mitotic spindle in metaphase, at the midbody during telophase and in the furrow during cytokinesis. We have also observed partial co‐localization of Rab24 and tubulin and demonstrated its association to microtubules. Interestingly, more than 90% of transiently transfected HeLa cells with Rab24 presented abnormal nuclear connections (i. e. chromatin bridges). Furthermore, in CHO cells stably transfected with GFP‐Rab24wt, we observed a large percentage of binucleated and multinucleated cells. In addition, these cells presented an extremely large size and multiple failures in mitosis, as aberrant spindle formation (metaphase), delayed chromosomes (telophase) and multiple cytokinesis. A marked increase in binucleated, multinucleated and multilobulated nucleus formation was observed in HeLa cells depleted of Rab24. We also present evidence that a fraction of Rab24 associates with microtubules. In addition, Rab24 knock down resulted in misalignment of chromosomes and abnormal spindle formation in metaphase leading to the appearance of delayed chromosomes during late telophase and failures in cytokinesis. Our findings suggest that an adequate level of Rab24 is necessary for normal cell division. In summary, Rab24 modulates several mitotic events, including chromosome segregation and cytokinesis, perhaps through the interaction with microtubules.
Protamine‐induced immune thrombocytopenia
Authors: Singla Atul , Sullivan Mia J. , Lee Grace , Bartholomew John , Kapadia Samir , Aster Richard H. , Curtis Brian R.
Published: February 2013

Background

Protamine is widely used to reverse the anticoagulant effects of heparin. Although mild thrombocytopenia is common in patients given protamine after cardiac procedures, acute severe thrombocytopenia has not been described. We encountered a patient who experienced profound thrombocytopenia and bleeding shortly after administration of protamine and performed studies to characterize the responsible mechanism.

Study Design and Methods

Patient serum was studied for antibodies that recognize protamine, heparin‐protamine complexes, and platelets (PLTs) treated with protamine using flow cytometry, enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay, and serotonin release from labeled PLTs.

Results

A high‐titer immunoglobulin G antibody was detected in patient serum that recognizes protamine in a complex with heparin or PLT surface glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) and activates PLTs treated with protamine at concentrations achieved in vivo after protamine infusion. The antibody is distinctly different from those found in patients with heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia on the basis of its failure to recognize heparin in a complex with PLT factor 4 (PF4) and to release serotonin from labeled PLTs in the absence of protamine.

Conclusions

Findings made suggest that the patient's antibody is specific for conformational changes induced in protamine when it reacts with heparin or a PLT surface GAG. Development of severe thrombocytopenia after treatment of this patient with protamine defines a previously undescribed mechanism of drug‐induced immune thrombocytopenia. Patients given protamine who produce this type of antibody may be at risk of experiencing thrombocytopenia if given the drug a second time while antibody is still present.
Immunoproteasom: drug development for xenotransplantation
Authors: Groll Michael
Published: February 2013

The majority of cellular proteins are degraded by proteasomes within the ubiquitin‐proteasome ATP‐dependent degradation pathway. Products of proteasomal activity are short peptides which are further hydrolysed by proteases to single amino acid. Some peptides though can escape the degradation, being selected and uptaken by MHC class I molecules for presentation to the immune system on the cell surface. MHC class I molecules are highly selective and specific in terms of ligand binding. Variability of peptides produced in living cells is created by a variety of ways which allow ensuring fast and efficient immune response. Substitution of constitutive proteasomal subunits with immuno‐subunits leads to conformational changes in the substrate binding channels and result in modified protein cleavage patterns and consequently, in the generation of new antigenic peptides. The proteasome (core particle, CP) represents an attractive drug target due to its central functional role in biological processes. It has been extensively investigated during the last decade and validated with the approval of the drug bortezomib by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Currently, several optimized second‐generation CP inhibitors are being explored as anti‐cancer drugs in clinical trials and most of them equally target constitutive proteasomes (cCPs) and immunoproteasomes (iCPs). However, selective inhibition of the iCP, a distinct class of proteasomes predominantly expressed in immune cells, appears to be a promising therapeutic rationale for the treatment of autoimmune disorders and organ rejection. Although few selective agents have already been identified, the recently determined crystal structure of the iCP [1] will further promote the development and optimization of iCP‐selective compounds [2,3].

References:  1. Huber EM, Basler M, Schwab R, Heinemeyer W, Kirk C, Groettrup M, Groll M. Constitutive and immunoproteasome crystal structures reveal differences in substrate and inhibitor specificity. Cell 2012; 148: 727–738.

2. Huber E, Groll M. Inhibitors for the immuno‐ and constitutive proteasome: current and future trends in drug development. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012; 51 (1): DOI: 10.1002/anie.201201616.

3. Gallastegui N, Beck P, Arciniega M, Huber R, Hillebrand S, Groll M. Hydroxyureas as noncovalent proteasome inhibitors. Angew. Chem. Int. Ed. 2012; 51 (1): 247–249.
IgM‐dependent activation of the lectin pathway of complement in xenotransplantation
Authors: Bongoni Anjan K. , Rieben Robert
Published: February 2013

Background:  The classical pathway is the dominant initiator of complement activation in xenotransplantation. By amplification of C3b generation, the alternative pathway is also critical. However, little attention has been paid up to date to the involvement of the lectin pathway in xenograft rejection. Natural IgM, containing anti‐Gal, is a major initiator of classical pathway complement activation, but recently it has been shown that during ischemia/reperfusion injury, IgM also induces lectin pathway activation. Thus, the present study was focused on lectin pathway as well as interaction of IgM and MBL in a pig‐to‐human in vitro xenotransplantation model.

Methods:  Cell ELISA using porcine aortic endothelial cells (PAEC) and normal human serum (NHS) was used to assess activation of the different complement pathways. To confirm activation of the lectin pathway and to analyze the role of natural IgM in it's activation, co‐localized deposition of MBL/MASP2 with C3b/c, C4b/c & C6 and IgM with MBL & MASP2 was investigated by immunofluorescence (IF)/confocal microscopy on PAEC. Influence of IgM presence on MBL binding to PAEC was tested using IgM depleted/repleted and anti‐Gal immunoabsorbed NHS. Finally, tissue samples from ex vivo xenoperfusion of pig limbs with whole human blood were tested for IgM mediated lectin pathway activation by IF staining.

Results:  Activation of all the three pathways of complement system was observed in vitro as indicated by IgM, C1q, MBL and Factor Bb binding on PAEC. MBL deposition was co‐localized with MASP2, C3b/c, C4b/c and C6, suggesting a predominant role of the lectin pathway in xenograft rejection. IgM co‐localization with MBL and MASP2 as well as dose‐dependently increased deposition of MBL on PAEC in the presence of human polyclonal IgM, further supports the idea that upon deposition of IgM a binding site for MBL is exposed. In addition, co‐localized deposition of MBL with IgM, C4b/c and C6 was also observed on ex vivo xenoperfusion samples.

Conclusion:  The lectin pathway of complement activation was shown to be involved in xenotransplantation. Co‐localization of MBL / MASP2 with IgM and complement proteins indicate that lectin pathway activation in xenotransplantation is dependent on antigen recognition by naturalIgM. These findings suggest that, similar to ischemia/reperfusion injury, the lectin pathway has a functional role in endothelial damage in xenotransplantation.