bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Remodeling of the Actin Cytoskeleton Is Coordinately Regulated by Protein Kinase C and the ADP-Ribosylation Factor Nucleotide Exchange Factor ARNO
Authors: Frank Scott R. , Hatfield Jessica C. , Casanova James E.
Published: July 2013

ARNO is a member of a family of guanine-nucleotide exchange factors with specificity for the ADP-ribosylation factor (ARF) GTPases. ARNO possesses a central catalytic domain with homology to yeast Sec7p and an adjacent C-terminal pleckstrin homology (PH) domain. We have previously shown that ARNO localizes to the plasma membrane in vivo and efficiently catalyzes ARF6 nucleotide exchange in vitro. In addition to a role in endocytosis, ARF6 has also been shown to regulate assembly of the actin cytoskeleton. To determine whether ARNO is an upstream regulator of ARF6 in vivo, we examined the distribution of actin in HeLa cells overexpressing ARNO. We found that, while expression of ARNO leads to disassembly of actin stress fibers, it does not result in obvious changes in cell morphology. However, treatment of ARNO transfectants with the PKC agonist phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate results in the dramatic redistribution of ARNO, ARF6, and actin into membrane protrusions resembling lamellipodia. This process requires ARF activation, as actin rearrangement does not occur in cells expressing a catalytically inactive ARNO mutant. PKC phosphorylates ARNO at a site immediately C-terminal to its PH domain. However, mutation of this site had no effect on the ability of ARNO to regulate actin rearrangement, suggesting that phosphorylation of ARNO by PKC does not positively regulate its activity. Finally, we demonstrate that an ARNO mutant lacking the C-terminal PH domain no longer mediates cytoskeletal reorganization, indicating a role for this domain in appropriate membrane localization. Taken together, these data suggest that ARNO represents an important link between cell surface receptors, ARF6, and the actin cytoskeleton.
Control of Cyclin D1, p27Kip1, and Cell Cycle Progression in Human Capillary Endothelial Cells by Cell Shape and Cytoskeletal Tension
Authors: Huang Sui , Chen Christopher S. , Ingber Donald E.
Published: July 2013

The extracellular matrix (ECM) plays an essential role in the regulation of cell proliferation during angiogenesis. Cell adhesion to ECM is mediated by binding of cell surface integrin receptors, which both activate intracellular signaling cascades and mediate tension-dependent changes in cell shape and cytoskeletal structure. Although the growth control field has focused on early integrin and growth factor signaling events, recent studies suggest that cell shape may play an equally critical role in control of cell cycle progression. Studies were carried out to determine when cell shape exerts its regulatory effects during the cell cycle and to analyze the molecular basis for shape-dependent growth control. The shape of human capillary endothelial cells was controlled by culturing cells on microfabricated substrates containing ECM-coated adhesive islands with defined shape and size on the micrometer scale or on plastic dishes coated with defined ECM molecular coating densities. Cells that were prevented from spreading in medium containing soluble growth factors exhibited normal activation of the mitogen-activated kinase (erk1/erk2) growth signaling pathway. However, in contrast to spread cells, these cells failed to progress through G1 and enter S phase. This shape-dependent block in cell cycle progression correlated with a failure to increase cyclin D1 protein levels, down-regulate the cell cycle inhibitor p27Kip1, and phosphorylate the retinoblastoma protein in late G1. A similar block in cell cycle progression was induced before this same shape-sensitive restriction point by disrupting the actin network using cytochalasin or by inhibiting cytoskeletal tension generation using an inhibitor of actomyosin interactions. In contrast, neither modifications of cell shape, cytoskeletal structure, nor mechanical tension had any effect on S phase entry when added at later times. These findings demonstrate that although early growth factor and integrin signaling events are required for growth, they alone are not sufficient. Subsequent cell cycle progression and, hence, cell proliferation are controlled by tension-dependent changes in cell shape and cytoskeletal structure that act by subjugating the molecular machinery that regulates the G1/S transition.
Rab11 Is Required for Trans-Golgi Network–to–Plasma Membrane Transport and a Preferential Target for GDP Dissociation Inhibitor
Authors: Chen Wei , Feng Yan , Chen Dayue , Wandinger-Ness Angela
Published: July 2013

The rab11 GTPase has been localized to both the Golgi and recycling endosomes; however, its Golgi-associated function has remained obscure. In this study, rab11 function in exocytic transport was analyzed by using two independent means to perturb its activity. First, expression of the dominant interfering rab11S25N mutant protein led to a significant inhibition of the cell surface transport of vesicular stomatitis virus (VSV) G protein and caused VSV G protein to accumulate in the Golgi. On the other hand, the expression of wild-type rab11 or the activating rab11Q70L mutant had no adverse effect on VSV G transport. Next, the membrane association of rab11, which is crucial for its function, was perturbed by modest increases in GDP dissociation inhibitor (GDI) levels. This led to selective inhibition of the trans-Golgi network to cell surface delivery, whereas endoplasmic reticulum–to–Golgi and intra-Golgi transport were largely unaffected. The transport inhibition was reversed specifically by coexpression of wild-type rab11 with GDI. Under the same conditions two other exocytic rab proteins, rab2 and rab8, remained membrane bound, and the transport steps regulated by these rab proteins were unaffected. Neither mutant rab11S25N nor GDI overexpression had any impact on the cell surface delivery of influenza hemagglutinin. These data show that functional rab11 is critical for the export of a basolateral marker but not an apical marker from the trans-Golgi network and pinpoint rab11 as a sensitive target for inhibition by excess GDI.
New Sources of Temperature-Sensitive Resistance to Wheat streak mosaic virus in Wheat
Authors: Seifers Dallas L. , Haber Steve , Martin T. J. , Zhang Guorong
Published: July 2013

Expressing temperature-sensitive resistance (TSR) protects wheat against yield losses from infection with Wheat streak mosaic virus (WSMV). In examining how 2,429 wheat accessions from the National Small Grains Collection responded to inoculation with the Sid81 isolate of WSMV, 20 candidate TSR sources were discovered. To differentiate their relative effectiveness, accession responses over 21 days to inoculation with GH95, Sid81, and PV57 virus isolates in regimes of 18 and 20°C were observed. At 18°C, all 20 candidate TSR sources were uniformly or nearly uniformly asymptomatic 21 days after inoculation with the PV57 isolate, resistance indistinguishable from resistant checks KS96HW10-3 and RonL. By contrast, the Sid81 isolate induced symptoms in low but significant proportions of plants of two candidates, and the GH95 isolate in high proportions for four candidates and low but significant proportions for two others. In the more stringent 20°C regime, the uniform or near-uniform induction of symptoms in response to inoculation with GH95 failed to differentiate among the 20 candidate TSR sources and two resistant checks, while PV57 and Sid81 identified several candidates that performed similarly to KS96HW10-3 and significantly better than RonL. By identifying new sources of resistance, this study contributes to the control of WSMV.
Bis{tris[(1H-benzimidazol-3-ium-2-yl)methyl]amine} tetraaquaocta-μ2-chlorido-octachloridopentacadmate(II) monohydrate
Authors: Yu Chun-Hua , Zhu Run-Qiang , Jin Yu , Liu Ming-Liang , Jin Lei
Published: July 2013

The title compound, (C24H24N7)2[Cd5Cl16(H2O)4]·H2O, contains a [Cd5Cl16(H2O)4]6−anion, two triply protonated tris[(1H-benzimidazol-3-ium-2-yl)methyl]amine cations and one solvent water molecule. The structure of the anion is a novel chloride-bridged pentanuclear cluster. The five unique CdIIcentres have quite different coordination environments. Two of the central hexacoordinated CdIIcations have a CdOCl5chromophore, in which each CdIIcation is ligated by four bridging chloride ligands, one terminal chloride ligand and one water molecule, adopting a distorted octahedral environment. The third central CdIIcation is octahedrally coordinated by four bridging chloride ligands and two water molecules. Finally, the two terminal CdIIcations are pentacoordinated by two bridging and three terminal chloride ligands and adopt a trigonal–bipyramidal geometry. A three-dimensional supramolecular network is formed through intra- and intermolecular O—H...O, O—H...Cl, N—H...Cl and N—H...O hydrogen bonds and π–π interactions between the cations and anions.
The ecological benefits of interceptive eavesdropping
Authors: Ridley Amanda R. , Wiley Elizabeth M. , Thompson Alex M.
Published: July 2013

Eavesdropping behaviour can increase the total amount of information available to an individual and therefore has the potential to provide substantial benefits. Recent research has suggested that some species are ‘information givers’, particularly social species with cooperative vigilance systems, and that these species may consequently affect community structure by influencing the behaviour and niche utilization of other species.

Here, using behavioural observations and playback experiments, we compared the behavioural change in a solitary species (the scimitarbill) and a social species (the pied babbler), to the presence and alarm calls of one another.

Our results revealed that scimitarbills underwent significant behavioural changes in the presence of social pied babblers: they reduced their vigilance rate by over 60%, increased their foraging efficiency and expanded their niche by moving into open habitat and excavating subterranean food items. In contrast, pied babblers – who have an effective intraspecific sentinel system – did not show significant behavioural changes to the presence or alarm calls of scimitarbills.

These results suggest that interspecific interceptive eavesdropping can provide significant benefits, influencing the behaviour and habitat utilization of eavesdropping species.
Identification of a putative cognate sensor kinase for the two‐component response regulator HrpG, a key regulator controlling the expression of the hrp genes in Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris
Authors: Li Rui‐Fang , Lu Guang‐Tao , Li Lei , Su Hui‐Zhao , Feng Guo‐fang , Chen Ya , He Yong‐Qiang , Jiang Bo‐Le , Tang Dong‐Jie , Tang Ji‐Liang
Published: July 2013

The bacterial phytopathogen Xanthomonas campestris pv. campestris (Xcc) relies on the hrp (hypersensitive response and pathogenicity) genes to cause disease and induce hypersensitive response (HR). The hrp genes of bacterial phytopathogens are divided into two groups. Xcc hrp genes belong to group II. It has long been known that the group II hrp genes are activated by an AraC‐type transcriptional regulator whose expression is controlled by a two‐component system (TCS) response regulator (named HrpG in Xcc). However, no cognate sensor kinase has yet been identified. Here, we present evidence showing that the Xcc open‐reading frame XC_3670 encodes a TCS sensor kinase (named HpaS). Mutation of hpaS almost completely abolished the HR induction and virulence. Bacterial two‐hybrid and protein pull‐down assays revealed that HpaS physically interacted with HrpG. Phos‐tag™ SDS‐PAGE analysis showed that mutation in hpaS reduced markedly the phosphorylation of HrpG in vivo. These data suggest that HpaS and HrpG are most likely to form a TCS. We also showed that XC_3669 (named hpaR2), which is adjacent to hpaS and encodes a putative TCS response regulator, is required for full virulence but not HR induction. HpaR2 also physically interacted with HpaS, suggesting that HpaS may also form another TCS with HpaR2.
Case Method in the Teaching of Food Safety
Authors: Gallego Alfredo , Fortunato María S. , Rossi Susana L. , Korol Sonia E. , Moretton Juan A.
Published: July 2013

One of the fundamental aims of education is the integration of theory and practice. The case method is a teaching strategy in which students must apply their knowledge to solve real‐life situations. They have to analyze the case described and propose the best possible solution. Although the case may be written, the use of new information and communication technologies can develop the case plan in ways that would achieve greater realism and widen the possibilities for discussion. This paper describes our experience in implementing the case method to teach food safety in the Chair of Hygiene. At first this methodology was used to improve the teaching of good practices in food preparation, later practical work was implemented where small groups of students designed and carried out the microbiological analysis of suspected food. This practical work was presented online as a multimedia activity; students were given face‐to‐face and on‐line tutoring. Evaluation was based both on students’ performance and on a survey they had to answer. More than 92% of students regarded the methodology used for the understanding of the unit as sound. Professors collaboration on providing guidance and multimedia presentation were also positively assessed. The bringing together of face‐to‐face and virtual tasks and small‐group discussion of cases under professors guidance contributed to making good use of the positive aspects of this methodology in order to improve the understanding of problems which do not always have a single answer.
A Summative Evaluation of a Food Safety Social Marketing Campaign “4‐Day Throw‐Away” Using Traditional and Social Media
Authors: James Katie J. , Albrecht Julie A. , Litchfield Ruth E. , Weishaar Christopher A.
Published: July 2013

Foodborne illnesses remain a common problem in the United States. Focus group results indicated that lack of knowledge and improper handling of leftovers were common among food preparers in families with young children. The USDA‐recommended storage time for leftovers was used to develop and conduct a food safety social marketing campaign, 4 Day Throw Away using both traditional and social media. A procedural model for developing a theory‐based nutrition education intervention and the Health Belief Model were used to design, implement, and evaluate this campaign. The #4 mascot made numerous public appearances (in person and TV) to convey the 4 Day Throw Away message; 10000 magnets were distributed; and 500 posters with tear‐off note card were posted in the traditional campaign. Magnets and note card directed recipients to a website (4984 visits) with food safety information about leftovers. The social media campaign included 4 YouTube videos (11759 views); a Facebook page (166 users with over 21240 post views); and 51 followers on Twitter. The use of multiple media channels increased awareness and intention to change health behaviors especially among parents of children 10 and younger. Both traditional and social media methods in the 4 Day Throw Away campaign reached the intended audience suggesting that interventions using a mix of media channels broaden the reach and potential for intended behavior change.
GROUP COHESIVENESS, GANG MEMBER PRESTIGE, AND DELINQUENCY AND VIOLENCE IN CHICAGO, 1959–1962
Authors: HUGHES LORINE A.
Published: July 2013

Data from Short and Strodtbeck's () study of gangs in Chicago, 1959–1962, are used to examine the association between intragang friendship networks and violent and delinquent behaviors among 248 boys from 11 different gangs (9 Black and 2 White). Contrary to expectations of tightly connected gangs being the most dangerous, estimates from multilevel overdispersed Poisson regression models showed significantly increased mean levels of violence among gangs with relatively low group cohesion. No relationship was observed between delinquency and gang cohesiveness, regardless of the specific network measure employed. At the individual level, popular boys were at a significantly increased risk for both delinquency and violence, suggesting a link between prestigious positions within the structure of gang friendship networks and conformity with group processes. The implications of these findings for detached worker intervention are discussed.
Cryopreservation in artichoke: towards a phytosanitary qualified germplasm collection
Authors: Tavazza R. , Lucioli A. , Benelli C. , Giorgi D. , D'Aloisio E. , Papacchioli V.
Published: July 2013

Artichoke is of great economic significance in the Mediterranean basin. Although Italy has the richest primary cultivated gene pool, only a limited number of varietal types are vegetatively propagated to fit market demand. This could lead to the erosion of genetic resources. The development of cryopreservation procedures for the ex situ conservation of the genetic resources of artichoke is advisable not only to counter genetic erosion, but also to develop a certified phytosanitary germplasm collection. In this study, several parameters were tested in order to set up a simple and efficient procedure for the cryopreservation of artichoke shoot tips, based on vitrification/one‐step cooling, which was successfully applied to two spring cultivars ‘Grato 1’ and ‘Campagnano’. Cold acclimation prior to cooling was essential for tissue recovery and regrowth. The size of the shoot tips was also critical, and medium size tips (3–4 mm in length) proved to be the best responding starting material. The best survival percentage of cryopreserved shoot tips was 61% for ‘Grato1’ and 55% for ‘Campagnano’. Cryopreserved shoot tips developed directly into plantlets, which proved to be stable in terms of chromosome numbers. The cryopreservation procedure was notably effective in eliminating the endemic Artichoke Latent virus (ArLV) from both cultivars, irrespective of the shoot tip size used, which were up to 10 times the size used in meristem cultures for virus elimination. All plantlets analyzed for ArLV by RT‐PCR were virus‐free eight months after regeneration. An analysis of ArLV elimination and chromosome numbers of cryopreserved artichoke plants is presented here for the first time.
The global bio‐economy
Authors: Swinnen Johan , Riera Olivia
Published: July 2013

Throughout history, agriculture and natural resources have been used for the production of food, feed, fibre, fuel, and environmental goods. Recent developments in demand both in terms of quantity and quality, technology, and traditional energy and chemistry markets have reinforced the demand for nonfood applications. These developments, in combination with increased consumer demands for various food characteristics, have led to a rapidly growing and globally integrated “bio‐economy.” This article introduces and summarizes the plenary papers on the opportunities and challenges for the bio‐economy that were presented at the 28th triennial conference of the International Association of Agricultural Economists (IAAE) in Brazil. The following aspects of the bio‐economy are covered: finance, volatility, poverty, conflict, productivity, investment, resource constraints, and governance.
Water and food in the bioeconomy: challenges and opportunities for development
Authors: Rosegrant Mark W. , Ringler Claudia , Zhu Tingju , Tokgoz Simla , Bhandary Prapti
Published: July 2013

The world economy is under pressure for greater, more efficient and more sustainable use of natural resources to meet complementary and competing objectives in the food, water and energy sectors. Interactions between these three sectors have become increasingly affected by the bioeconomy—a concept that encompasses economic growth driven by the development of renewable biological resources and biotechnologies to produce sustainable products, employment and income. This article explores how water and the bioeconomy are interlinked, including how the constraints from growing water scarcity—in part caused by development of the bioeconomy—may influence bioeconomic growth. The article describes the impact of biofuel production on water quantity and quality and examines the potential for improved water use through the development of crop biotechnology and improved crop management. Then alternative scenarios for water in the bioeconomy are assessed, and policy conclusions are presented.
Agriculture and development: revisiting the policy narratives
Authors: Dercon Stefan
Published: July 2013

This essay questions the way the findings from research on agriculture in poor countries tend to be summarized in policy narratives, and more specifically the role agricultural economics tends to play in this process. I conclude that there is a tendency to overstate the role agriculture plays in development and, as a result, some of the wrong battles are being fought in the policy advocacy arena, and inappropriate advice is being offered to policy makers. A more open and self‐critical approach to the place of agriculture in development would be more helpful for policy design.
Population‐based analysis of prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) screening in younger men (<55 years) in Australia
Authors: Ranasinghe Weranja K.B. , Kim Simon P. , Lawrentschuk Nathan , Sengupta Shomik , Hounsome Luke , Barber Jim , Jones Richard , Davis Paul , Bolton Damien , Persad Raj
Published: July 2013

Objective

To analyse the trends in opportunistic PSA screening in Australia, focusing on younger men (<55 years of age), to examine the effects of this screening on transrectal ultrasonography (TRUS)‐guided biopsy rates and to determine the nature of prostate cancers (PCas) being detected.

Subjects and Methods

All men who received an opportunistic screening PSA test and TRUS‐guided biopsy between 2001 and 2008 in Australia were analysed using data from the Australian Cancer registry (Australian Institute of Health and Welfare) and Medicare databases. The Victorian cancer registry was used to obtain Gleason scores.

Age‐standardized and age‐specific rates were calculated, along with the incidence of PCa, and correlated with Gleason scores.

Results

A total 5 174 031 PSA tests detected 128 167 PCas in the period 2001–2008.

During this period, PSA testing increased by 146% (a mean of 4629 tests per 100 000 men annually), with 80 and 59% increases in the rates of TRUS‐guided biopsy and incidence of PCa, respectively.

The highest increases in PSA screening occurred in men <55 years old and up to 1101 men had to be screened to detect one incident case of PCa (0.01%).

Screening resulted in two thirds of men aged <55 years receiving a negative TRUS biopsy.

There was no correlation with Gleason >7 tumours in patients aged <55 years.

Conclusion

Despite the ongoing controversy about the merits of PCa screening, there was an increase in PSA testing, especially in men <55 years old, leading to a modestly higher incidence of PCa in Australia.

Overall, PSA screening was associated with high rates of negative TRUS‐biopsy and the detection of low/intermediate grade PCa among younger patients.
Laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) robot‐assisted nephroureterectomy: comparison with conventional multiport technique in the management of upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Lim Sey Kiat , Shin Tae‐Young , Kim Kwang Hyun , Han Woong Kyu , Chung Byung Ha , Hong Sung Joon , Choi Young Deuk , Rha Koon Ho
Published: July 2013

Objective

To compare the peri‐operative, pathological and oncological outcomes of laparoendoscopic single‐site (LESS) robot‐assisted nephroureterectomy (LESS‐RALNU) with those of multiport robot‐asssisted nephroureterectomy (M‐RALNU).

Patients and Methods

A total of 38 patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma underwent LESS‐RALNU (n = 17) or M‐RALNU (n = 21) by a single surgeon at a tertiary institution.

Data were obtained from a prospectively maintained database.

Results

Patients' demographics and tumour characteristics were similar between the M‐RALNU and LESS‐RALNU groups.

The mean follow‐up was 48.4 months for M‐RALNU and 30.9 months for LESS‐RALNU (P = 0). The mean operating time, estimated blood loss and length of hospitalization for M‐RALNU and LESS‐RALNU were 251 min, 192 mL, 6.5 days and 247 min, 376 mL and 5.4 days, respectively (P > 0.05).

Overall, there were no significant differences in complication rates, although three patients in the LESS‐RALNU group required blood transfusion, whereas no patient in the M‐RALNU group did (P = 0.081).

The proportion of patients with bladder recurrence, local recurrence and distant metastases was similar between the two groups.

There were no significant differences in the recurrence‐free survival, cancer‐specific survival and overall survival rates between the two groups.

Conclusions

Although the oncological and peri‐operative outcomes of patients who underwent LESS‐RALNU compared well with those who underwent M‐RALNU and with series of other surgical approaches, LESS‐RALNU might result in greater intra‐operative blood loss.

We suggest careful selection of patient for this technique.
Antiproliferative Diarylpyrazole Derivatives as Dual Inhibitors of the ERK Pathway and COX‐2
Authors: El‐Gamal Mohammed I. , Choi Hong Seok , Yoo Kyung Ho , Baek Daejin , Oh Chang‐Hyun
Published: July 2013

A series of 3,4‐diarylpyrazole‐1‐carboxamide derivatives was designed and synthesized. A selected group of the target compounds was tested for in vitro antiproliferative activities over a panel of 60 cancer cell lines at the National Cancer Institute (NCI, Bethesda, MD, USA) at a single‐dose concentration of 10 μm, and the four most active compounds 9a, 9l, 9n, and 10o were further tested in a five‐dose testing mode to determine their IC50 values over the 60 cell lines. In addition, a selected group of target compounds were tested for inhibitory effect over cyclooxygenase isozymes. Compounds 9a, 9l, 9n, and 10o were also tested for MEK and ERK kinase inhibitory activity using Western blot assay. Compound 10o was selective toward melanoma cell line subpanel, and its antiproliferative activity may be attributed to selective cyclooxygenase‐2 inhibition and ERK pathway inhibition.
Connecting tube colonic erosion and gastrocolic fistula formation following late gastric band erosion
Authors: Blouhos K. , Boulas K. A. , Katsaouni S. P. , Salpigktidis I. I. , Mauroeidi B. , Ioannidis K. , Hatzigeorgiadis A.
Published: July 2013

Band erosion is a rare complication of laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) with a reported prevalence varying from 0.3% to 14%. Intraluminal colonic erosion of the connecting tube is very rare, as only isolated cases have been described. Consequently, simultaneous gastric band erosion and connecting tube colonic erosion is an extremely rare event. Herein, we present a case of a woman with morbid obesity, who submitted to LABG 4 years ago. The patient presented with symptoms and signs of right lower quadrant peritonitis. Computed tomography (CT) demonstrated migration of the band into the gastric lumen, inflammation around the intra‐abdominal course of the connecting tube and an inflammatory mass surrounding the tube at the right lower quadrant. Laparotomy revealed the eroded band, the eroded transverse colon from the connecting tube, a gastrocolic fistula along the course of the tube and a right lower quadrant phlegmon. The connecting tube was mobilized from the surrounding adherent tissues, the gastric band removed, the stomach and colon walls closed, and the gastrocolic fistula excised. To our knowledge this is the second case of concurrent band erosion and connecting tube colonic erosion along with gastrocolic fistula formation in a patient with morbid obesity treated with LAGB.
Induction of ankylosis in the incisor for orthodontic tooth movement in rats
Authors: Cuoghi Osmar Aparecido , Tondelli Pedro Marcelo , Sonoda Celso Koogi , Aiello Carlos Alberto , de Mendonça Marcos Rogério , Costa Silvano Cesar da
Published: July 2013

Background/Aim

The present research evaluated the induction of ankylosis and the eruption rate in rat incisors, with the aim of achieving stable anchorage for orthodontic tooth movement (OTM) of the molars.

Material and methods

Fifteen male Wistar rats were used. In the Experimental group, the right superior incisor of each animal was extracted, denuded of the PDL and the dental papilla, and reimplanted. The Control group was the left superior incisors. The eruption rate was measured at 7, 10, 12, 14, and 16 days after replantation. NiTi closed springs with a 50cN release force were installed for additional 9 days, and the eruption rate was determined. Then, the rats were sacrificed, and ankylosis was examined by microscopic analysis. Differences withP < 0.01 were defined as statistically significant.

Results

The eruption rates were 0 and 0.39 mm day−1in the Experimental group and Control group, respectively. All incisors of the Experimental group showed ankylosis according to histological analysis.

Conclusions

The methodology used to induce ankylosis in this study was effective for anchoring the incisors during the OTM of rat molars, eliminating the undesirable effects consequent to continuous eruption.
With a Little Help from My Competitors: Peer Networking among Artisan Entrepreneurs
Authors: Kuhn Kristine M. , Galloway Tera L.
Published: July 2013

Although many studies have assessed the effects of networking and government assistance programs on small business success, little attention has been paid to the opportunities afforded by technology for owner–managers in the same industry to offer “soft” support, such as advice, to one another. Here we examine arts and crafts e–commerce, a context conducive to comparing distinct types of advice and support, and where a great deal of peer assistance is exchanged via formal and informal networks. Survey results from 343 artisan entrepreneurs show that motivational differences influence which types of advice and support they value and which they are most likely to provide to others.
Does Index Speculation Impact Commodity Prices? An Intraday Analysis
Authors: Tse Yiuman , Williams Michael R.
Published: July 2013

Using intraday data, we find unidirectional causality from commodity index‐linked futures to nonindex‐linked commodity futures for up to one hour which disappears when using daily data. Also, the economic significance of index‐linked to nonindex commodity transmission declines to zero within about an hour. Finally, we find that the magnitude of index‐linked to nonindex return transmission is positively related to the amount of speculation, both long and short, in S&P GSCI commodity index futures.  We conclude that speculative pressures exerted by commodity index futures can impact nonindex commodities, mainly through the activity of uninformed, positive feedback traders.
Species richness, species turnover and functional diversity in nematodes of the deep Mediterranean Sea: searching for drivers at different spatial scales
Authors: Gambi Cristina , Pusceddu Antonio , Benedetti‐Cecchi Lisandro , Danovaro Roberto
Published: July 2013

Aim

Understanding how biodiversity varies at different spatial scales and the drivers behind these patterns is a crucial issue in ecology. This is evident for the deep sea, the largest biome of the biosphere, where there is little information available on the spatial and temporal variability of biodiversity. Here, we investigated the variability and potential drivers of species richness, turnover and functional biodiversity of deep‐sea nematodes at a depth of 3000 m across different spatial scales and in two periods of contrasting pelagic productivity.

Location

The Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

We used for the first time a hierarchical sampling strategy that includes different spatial scales, from tens of metres (small scale) to hundreds of kilometres (macroscale).

Results

We show that the variability in biodiversity is greatest at the macroscale, although the rate of variability is about two‐ to three‐fold lower than observed for nematode abundance. Also, turnover diversity is highest at the macroscale (and uncoupled from species richness), and significantly decreases to the meso‐ and local scales. Functional diversity is positively related to species richness and its variability is associated with the change in richness of predators. The drivers of spatial variability of biodiversity are different at different spatial scales. Our data identify the pivotal role of food quantity in the control of variability in biodiversity attributes at the macroscale, while the quality and bioavailability of food sources have a key role in driving beta diversity and biodiversity attributes at small spatial scales. Also, the largest variations in biodiversity attributes at both macroscales and mesoscales are related to periods of high food input from the euphotic zone.

Main conclusions

We conclude that changes in food availability, which can also be expected as a consequence of climate change, have a significant impact in setting biodiversity attributes at different spatial scales in the deep sea.
Salivary cytokine profile in elders with Candida‐related denture stomatitis
Authors: Pesee Siripen , Arpornsuwan Teerakul
Published: July 2013

Objectives

This study investigated risk factors of denture stomatitis, and the levels of cytokines in the saliva of elderly Candida‐related denture stomatitis participants compared with adult individuals.

Material and methods

The occurrence of denture stomatitis in 128 patients with upper removable dentures was clinically examined. Participants were divided into two age groups as adult and elder. Risk factors associated with denture stomatitis were evaluated by questionnaire and oral and dental prosthesis examination. The quality of dentures was evaluated by direct examination. Palatal mucosa was swabbed for Candida carriage investigation, and whole unstimulated saliva was collected for cytokine detection. Salivary cytokines (interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐17, intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM)‐1 and tumour necrosis factor (TNF)‐α) were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

The associations between the occurrence of denture stomatitis and either the quality of dentures or Candida isolation on palatal mucosa were significant. However, differences in the levels of salivary IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐17, ICAM‐1 and TNF‐α between the denture wearers with and without denture stomatitis were undetectable. Adult and elderly Candida‐related denture stomatitis patients also showed a similar level of salivary IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐17, ICAM‐1 and TNF‐α. No correlation between the presence of denture stomatitis in the elder and the quantity of Candida infection was found.

Conclusion

No association was found between the occurrence of Candida‐related denture stomatitis and the concentrations of salivary IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, IL‐17, ICAM‐1 and TNF‐α, regardless of age.
EQ‐5D rated by proxy in institutionalized older adults with dementia: Psychometric pros and cons
Authors: Diaz‐Redondo Alicia , Rodriguez‐Blazquez Carmen , Ayala Alba , Martinez‐Martin Pablo , Forjaz Maria João ,   Spanish Research Group on Quality of Life and Aging
Published: July 2013

Aim

Measurement of health‐related quality of life in people with dementia is a challenge, because of their special characteristics and the difficulties that this term entails itself. The present study aimed at assessing the psychometric properties of the EQ‐5D rated by a familiar or a professional caregiver of institutionalized older adults with dementia.

Methods

We analyzed the EQ‐5D psychometric properties from 525 questionnaires rated by proxy, in a sample of institutionalized older adults with dementia.

Results

The mean EQ‐5D index score was 0.11 ± 0.38, and 51.54 ± 21.47 for the visual analog scale. The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.72. Regarding internal consistency, Cronbach's alpha was 0.64, and the item‐total correlation ranged from 0.33 to 0.53. Exploratory factor analysis identified a functional and a subjective factor, accounting for 67.35% of the variance. Convergent validity of EQ‐5D with Quality of Life Alzheimer's Disease by proxy and Quality of Life in Late‐stage Dementia scales was satisfactory (r = 0.36–0.58). The EQ‐5D showed appropriate discriminative validity among patients grouped into several categories. Multiple linear regression models, using EQ‐index and visual analog scale as dependent variables, identified dependence level, proxy characteristics, leisure and comorbidity as determinants of quality of life.

Conclusions

Despite some limitations in the more subjective dimensions, the proxy‐rated EQ‐5D showed satisfactory psychometric properties in the present study, suggesting that it is a valid and alternative instrument to assess quality of life in institutionalized older people with dementia. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2014; 14: 346–353.
Traumatic Brain Injury, Neuroinflammation, and Post‐Traumatic Headaches
Authors: Mayer Cynthia L. , Huber Bertrand R. , Peskind Elaine
Published: July 2013

Concussions following head and/or neck injury are common, and although most people with mild injuries recover uneventfully, a subset of individuals develop persistent post‐concussive symptoms that often include headaches. Post‐traumatic headaches vary in presentation and may progress to become chronic and in some cases debilitating. Little is known about the pathogenesis of post‐traumatic headaches, although shared pathophysiology with that of the brain injury is suspected. Following primary injury to brain tissues, inflammation rapidly ensues; while this inflammatory response initially provides a defensive/reparative function, it can persist beyond its beneficial effect, potentially leading to secondary injuries because of alterations in neuronal excitability, axonal integrity, central processing, and other changes. These changes may account for the neurological symptoms often observed after traumatic brain injury, including headaches. This review considers selected aspects of the inflammatory response following traumatic brain injury, with an emphasis on the role of glial cells as mediators of maladaptive post‐traumatic inflammation.
Postmortem examination in the morbidly obese
Authors: Fryer Eve , Roberts Ian S D , Sheppard Mary N , Verrill Clare
Published: July 2013

Aims

The incidence of obesity is rising, and morbid obesity is associated with increased mortality rates. Pathologists will therefore encounter increasing numbers of postmortems in the morbidly obese. It is essential that pathologists recognize morbid obesity and can identify its consequences at postmortem. The aims of this study were to assess how often obesity is included in the cause of death of morbidly obese individuals, and whether obesity‐related causes of death are being missed.

Methods and results

The postmortem database of the John Radcliffe Hospital was searched to identify all medicolegal postmortems performed on morbidly obese individuals between January 2007 and September 2012. Of 4742 coronial postmortems performed, 3911 (82%) reports contained a record of height and weight, allowing body mass index calculation. Two hundred and two (5.2%) were performed on morbidly obese individuals. Death resulted from natural causes in 189 (93.6%), of which obesity was included in the medical certificate of cause of death in 41 (22%).

Conclusions

Postmortems in the morbidly obese represent a significant percentage of the total performed, but recognition of the contribution of obesity to death and of obesity‐associated conditions is poor. Postmortems performed on the morbidly obese represent a distinct group with specific causes of death, and should be approached as such.
Evidence‐based management of primary and localized Merkel cell carcinoma: a review
Authors: Ellis Dana L. , Davis Ronald S.
Published: July 2013

Background

Merkel cell carcinoma is a rare and often lethal cutaneous neuroendocrine malignancy with a tendency for early and frequent locoregional and distant metastasis and relapses. It is a tumor of the elderly and immunosuppressed, which most often appears on sun‐exposed areas of the body. There is growing interest in characterization of the disease and the best approach to its management. Despite the lack of prospective randomized clinical trials, treatment is evolving.

Objective

To provide an updated review of the most current and relevant data concerning the surgical (± radiological) management of Merkel cell carcinoma, including the role of Mohs micrographic surgery.

Methods

Using relevant MeSH terms, we performed a review of the literature on the above subjects from 1981 to 2011.

Results and conclusion

For primary tumors without evidence of organ metastases, surgical excision should be the primary therapy. Owing to the high rate of local metastases, a safety margin of at least 2 cm should be considered. In situations where small, localized tumors and/or special locations necessitate a smaller safety margin, compensation by complete histological examination of the excision margins and perhaps adjuvant radiation therapy should be undertaken. The literature states that benefits of Mohs micrographic surgery (over wide local excision) include tissue conservation and identification of tumors that may require extremely wide excision margins. The majority of data to date supports the use of Mohs surgery in the treatment of Merkel cell carcinoma.
Clinical and laboratory features of chronic idiopathic urticaria in the elderly
Authors: Magen Eli , Mishal Joseph , Schlesinger Menachem
Published: July 2013

Background

There are few data regarding epidemiology and clinical features of urticarial diseases in the elderly population.

Objective

The aim of the study was to determine the clinical and laboratory characteristics of chronic idiopathic urticaria (CIU) in the geriatric population.

Methods

Electronic medical records of outpatient allergy consultations due to a diagnosis of CIU were retrospectively reviewed to collect demographic data, urticaria activity score, results of autologous serum skin test (ASST), and laboratory workup.

Results

From 1598 patients with chronic urticaria, there were 1319 (82.5%) adult (adult CIU group) and 124 (9.4%) elderly subjects (elderly CIU group). The elderly CIU group was characterized by lower prevalence (46.7%) of women compared to the adult CIU group (69.2%; P = 0.022); fewer wheals (1.4 ± 0.5) vs. (2.3 ± 0.7; P < 0.001); lower rates of concomitant symptomatic dermographism 2 (2.2%) vs. 121 (12.6%; P = 0.003); and lower rates of angioedema, 3 (14.1%) vs. 362 (37.8%; P < 0.001). Fewer elderly patients with CIU (18.1%) than adult patients with CIU (44.7%; P = 0.019) demonstrated a positive ASST. There were no differences in laboratory data between the study groups.

Conclusion

CIU in the elderly population is nearly equally distributed in both sexes and is characterized by fewer wheals, lower rates of concomitant symptomatic dermographism, lower rates of angioedema, and lower ASST positivity.
Repigmentation of vitiligo‐associated leukotrichia after autologous, non‐cultured melanocyte‐keratinocyte transplantation
Authors: Al Jasser Mohammed I. , Ghwish Bassel , Al Issa Ahmed , Mulekar Sanjeev V.
Published: July 2013

Background

Many cases of leukotrichia are associated with vitiligo. Hair follicles are believed to be the source of melanocytes for skin repigmentation using standard medical therapy for vitiligo. Vitiliginous areas with overlying leukotrichia usually fail to achieve repigmentation by conventional medical treatments as a result of a deficient melanocyte reservoir. Even after the successful repigmentation of vitiliginous skin by medical therapies, leukotrichia hairs may remain depigmented, causing a major psychological impact to the patient. In such cases, surgical treatments may help to achieve the repigmentation of leukotrichia hairs. Reports of successful repigmentation in leukotrichia using different surgical treatments for vitiligo are few.

Objective

This study reports the benefit of autologous non‐cultured melanocyte‐keratinocyte transplantation (MKT) in patients with vitiligo‐associated leukotrichia.

Methods

We report four cases of vitiligo‐associated leukotrichia treated with MKT.

Results

All four patients showed significant repigmentation in vitiligo‐associated leukotrichia after MKT.

Conclusions

Melanocyte‐keratinocyte transplantation may represent a good therapeutic option for the repigmentation of vitiligo‐associated leukotrichia. This series includes only four responsive cases. Larger prospective studies are needed to determine the true response rate and mechanism of repigmentation.
Subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis of the face presenting as rhinoentomophthoramycosis
Authors: Mahajan Vikram K. , Chauhan Pushpinder S. , Mehta Karaninder S. , Abhinav C. , Sharma Vikas , Thakur Kamlesh
Published: July 2013

Objectives

Subcutaneous phaeohyphomycosis is the most common variety of phaeohyphomycosis and presents as asymptomatic or mildly painful, localized cysts, abscesses, or sometimes chromoblastomycosis‐like lesions over the feet, legs, or hands in about 60–85% of cases. It usually afflicts adults with some degree of immunosuppression.

Methods

We report a 30‐year‐old man, who presented with features of recurrent sinusitis (episodes of fever, nasal stuffiness, paranasal sinus pain, and tenderness), mucosal hypertrophy of the maxillary sinuses, and mid‐face swelling that was freely mobile and suggestive of rhinoentomophthoramycosis. He had no other associated illness.

Results

Histology suggested tumid lupus erythematosus. The diagnosis was based onFonsecaea pedrosoicultured from a biopsy specimen.

Conclusions

Combination therapy with itraconazole and saturated solution of potassium iodide (SSKI) was more effective than itraconazole used alone.
Polymorphisms in HLA‐related genes and psoriasis heredity in patients with psoriasis
Authors: Vasku Anna , Bienertova‐Vasku Julie , Izakovicova‐Holla Lydie , Pavkova Goldbergova Monika , Kozacikova Zuzana , Splichal Zbynek , Vasku Vladimir
Published: July 2013

Background

The aim of this study was to investigate possible associations of the five DNA polymorphic genotypes in the HLA region (transporter associated with antigen processing [TAP1; TAP1 333 a/b, TAP1 637 c/d], the HLA‐DRB1*1501‐rs3135388, tumor necrosis factor [TNF]α [−238 G/A] and NcoI TNFβ) with characteristics of family history in patients with psoriasis vulgaris.

Materials and methods

A total of 201 Czech patients with psoriasis were enrolled in the study. The patients were genotyped for the five common polymorphisms in TAP1, TNFα, and TNFβ genes (6p21.3) using the polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism‐based methodology.

Results

We observed significantly higher prevalence of Ile333Ile TAP1 allele in patients whose first‐degree relatives had a positive family history of psoriasis (Pa = 0.04). No differences related to family history of psoriasis were observed in HLA‐DRB1*1501 polymorphism. As for the TNFα (−238 G/A) polymorphism, a significant increase of the GG genotype was observed in patients, especially men with second‐ and third‐degree relatives with psoriasis (Pg = 0.008). Similarly, the B2B2 genotype of NcoI TNFβ polymorphism was more frequent in psoriatic patients, especially women, whose second‐ and third‐degree relatives had psoriasis (Pg = 0.004). Finally, the haplotype analysis of all five polymorphisms revealed that the frequency of haplotype bcCB1A was different between not only men and women with psoriasis (P = 0.007) but also between men and women without a family history of psoriasis (P = 0.007).

Conclusions

Haplotype association of HLA gene polymorphisms with genealogy aspects of psoriasis facilitates a better understanding of etiopathogenetic aspects of the diseases.