bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal quantification of the gingival crevicular fluid proteome during progression from gingivitis to periodontitis in a canine model
Authors: Davis Ian J. , Jones Andrew W. , Creese Andrew J. , Staunton Ruth , Atwal Jujhar , Chapple Iain L. C. , Harris Stephen , Grant Melissa M.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Inflammatory periodontal disease is widespread in dogs. This study evaluated site‐specific changes in the canine gingival crevicular fluid (GCF) proteome during longitudinal progression from very mild gingivitis to mild periodontitis. Periodontitis diagnosis in dogs requires general anaesthesia with associated risks and costs; our ultimate aim was to develop a periodontitis diagnostic for application in conscious dogs. The objective of this work was to identify potential biomarkers of periodontal disease progression in dogs.

Material and Methods

Gingival crevicular fluid was sampled from a total of 10 teeth in eight dogs at three different stages of health/disease and samples prepared for quantitative mass spectrometry (data available via ProteomeXchange; identifier PXD003337). A univariate mixed model analysis determined significantly altered proteins between health states and six were evaluated by ELISA.

Results

Four hundred and six proteins were identified with 84 present in all samples. The prevalence of 40 proteins was found to be significantly changed in periodontitis relative to gingivitis. ELISA measurements confirmed that haptoglobin was significantly increased.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates for the first time that proteins detected by mass spectrometry have potential to identify novel biomarkers for canine periodontal disease. Further work is required to validate additional biomarkers for a periodontitis diagnostic.
Contribution of the distal small intestine to metabolic improvement after bariatric/metabolic surgery: Lessons from ileal transposition surgery
Authors: Oh Tae Jung , Ahn Chang Ho , Cho Young Min
Published: March 2016

Roux‐en Y gastric bypass is a highly effective bariatric/metabolic surgical procedure that can induce robust weight loss and even remission of type 2 diabetes. One of the characteristic consequences of Roux‐en Y gastric bypass is the expedited nutrient delivery to the distal small intestine, where L‐cells are abundant and bile acid reabsorption occurs. To examine the role of the distal small intestine in isolation from other components of Roux‐en Y gastric bypass, the ileal transposition (IT) surgery has been used in various rat models. IT relocates the distal ileal segment to the upper jejunum distal to the ligament of Treitz without any other alterations in the gastrointestinal anatomy. Therefore, IT exposes the distal ileal tissue to ingested nutrients after a meal faster than the normal condition. Although there is some inconsistency in the effect of IT according to different types of rat models and different types of surgical protocols, IT typically improved glucose tolerance, increased insulin sensitivity and induced weight loss, and the findings were more prominent in obese diabetic rats. Suggested mechanisms for the metabolic improvements after IT include increased L‐cell secretion (e.g., glucagon‐like peptides and peptide YY), altered bile acid metabolism, altered host–microbial interaction, attenuated metabolic endotoxemia and many others. Based on the effect of IT, we can conclude that the contribution of the distal small intestine to the metabolic benefits of bariatric/metabolic surgery is quite considerable. By unveiling the mechanism of action of IT, we might revolutionize the treatment for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Mechanisms underlying glucose‐dependent insulinotropic polypeptide and glucagon‐like peptide‐1 secretion
Authors: Reimann Frank , Gribble Fiona M
Published: March 2016

The incretin hormones, glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide and glucagon‐like peptide‐1, are secreted from intestinal K‐ and L cells, respectively, with the former being most abundant in the proximal small intestine, whereas the latter increase in number towards the distal gut. Although an overlap between K‐ and L cells can be observed immunohistochemically or in murine models expressing fluorescent markers under the control of the two hormone promoters, the majority (>80%) of labeled cells seems to produce only one of these hormones. Transcriptomic analysis showed a close relationship between small intestinal K‐ and L cells, and glucose sensing mechanisms appear similar in both cell types with a predominant role of electrogenic glucose uptake through sodium‐coupled glucose transporter 1. Similarly, both cell types produce the long‐chain fatty acid sensing G‐protein‐coupled receptors, FFAR1 (GPR40) and FFAR4 (GPR120), but differ in the expression/functionality of other lipid sensing receptors. GPR119 and FFAR2/3, for example, have clearly documented roles in glucagon‐like peptide‐1 secretion, whereas agonists for the endocannabinoid receptor type 1 have been found to show largely selective inhibition of glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide secretion. In conclusion, although K‐ and L cell populations overlap and share key molecular nutrient‐sensing mechanisms, subtle differences between the responsiveness of the different cell types might be exploited to differentially modulate glucose‐dependent insulinotropic peptide or glucagon‐like peptide‐1 secretion.
Newly acquired kiwi fruit allergy after bone marrow transplantation from a kiwi‐allergic donor
Authors: Garzorz N. , Thomas J. , Eberlein B. , Haferlach C. , Ring J. , Biedermann T. , Schmidt‐Weber C. , Eyerich K. , Seifert F. , Eyerich S.
Published: March 2016

Background

The phenomenon of allergy transfer from an allergic donor to a non‐allergic recipient via hematopoietic cell transplantation has been described by several reports. However, it could not yet been conclusively shown that allergic reaction of the recipient is elicited by the donor's cells.

Objectives

In the case of a 46‐year‐old male patient who – for the first time in his life – had two episodes of oral allergic syndrome upon kiwi consumption after having received myeloablative hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HCT) from his kiwi‐allergic sister, we aimed to clarify the origin of allergen reactive cells in the donor. We not only intended to demonstrate if allergy was transferred by HCT but also to present an experimental workup for the analysis of allergy transfer by HCT.

Methods

Allergic sensitization to kiwi in recipient and donor was proven by ImmunoCAP. Furthermore, origin of peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) was analyzed by chromosomal fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH). To confirm allergic reaction and activation of hematopoietic cells by customized kiwi extract, we performed basophil activation test from whole blood as well as T cell proliferation assays from purified PBMCs of both recipient and donor.

Results

Basophil activation upon kiwi extract was demonstrated in both recipient and donor. Besides, we showed proliferation of CD4+ T cells after incubation with kiwi extract. FISH analysis proved that hematopoietic cells of the male recipient completely originated from the female donor.

Conclusion

Exemplified in this patient, we show for the first time that allergy transfer is mediated by the donor's cells. Moreover, our experimental approach using customized kiwi extract to prove contribution of kiwi‐specific T and B cells in both kiwi‐allergic recipient and donor could serve as a model approach for future studies.
Sex and the PASI: patients affected by a mild form of psoriasis are more predisposed to have a more severe form of erectile dysfunction
Authors: Bardazzi F. , Odorici G. , Ferrara F. , Magnano M. , Balestri R. , Patrizi A.
Published: March 2016

Background

Psoriasis is a multi‐systemic disease involving the skin and joints, but it is also characterized by endothelial dysfunction, which may cause sexual impotence and erectile dysfunction (ED), an embarrassing disease frequently neglected by dermatologists.

Objective

The principal objective was assessing the relationship between the severity of psoriasis and the severity of ED. We also investigated whether severity of psoriasis was related to International Index of Erectile Function‐5 (IIEF‐5) score, whether genital lesions worsened the IIEF‐5 score, whether ED was related to factors such as diabetes, smoking and hypertension, and finally the overall the psychological factors felt by the patient.

Methods

We administered two questionnaires (one of which was the IIEF‐5, a validated score to assess erectile dysfunction) to three groups of patients: 60 with mild psoriasis, 60 with severe psoriasis (assessed by Psoriasis Area Severity Index, PASI) and a control group including 60 patients without the disease.

Results

In the group of mild psoriasis, the patients who suffered from ED were the 56.67%, while in the group of severe psoriasis, ED affected the 46.68% of subjects. In the control group, ED was reported by the 23.33% of patients. The average IIEF‐5 score was 18.81 for patients with mild psoriasis and 20.31 for patients with severe form. The difference in the average IIEF‐5 scores between psoriatic (mild and severe cases) and control group was not statistically significant. Most patients with sexual dysfunction had also genital lesions; diabetes, smoking and hypertension were not related to lower IIEF‐5 scores. The overall psychological profile of psoriatic patients was worse than that of the controls.

Conclusion

We concluded that ED was related to psoriasis, in particular to mild forms. Moreover, since ED is a marker of cardiovascular events, also related to negative impact on the quality of life, physicians should always investigate the presence of ED in clinical practice.
Aspects of Vietnamese Sutchi Catfish (Pangasius Hypophthalmus) Frozen Fillet Quality: Microbiological Profile and Chemical Residues.
Authors: Dambrosio Angela , Normanno Giovanni , Storelli Arianna , Barone Grazia , Ioanna Federica , Errico Luigi , Centoducati Gerardo , Storelli Maria M.
Published: March 2016

Pangasius hypophthalmus fillets, classified according to different frozen technologies, were subjected to microbiological (Psychrophilic Total Aerobic Count = PTAC, Enterobacteriacea, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella spp. and Listeria monocytogenes) and chemical analyses (Hg, Pb, Cd and six “indicator” congeners of polychlorinated biphenyls=PCB6). Mean count of psychrophilic aerobic total bacteria, Enterobacteriaceae and S. aureus in all samples examined was 4.44 log CFU/g, 2.16 log CFU/g and 1.07 log CFU/g, respectively. Any sample showed the presence of Salmonella, while L. monocytogenes was encountered in 2.1% of samples tested. The microbiological counts were different among fillet categories, but with values always lower than the limit of ICMSF. Also the chemical quality of processed products is satisfactory being the concentrations of all metals and six “indicator” PCBs below safety levels for human consumption. This study has contributed to addressing the current paucity in literature on the microbial and chemical status of frozen P. hypophthalmus fillets.

Practical Applications

The present research reveals a good chemical and microbiological quality of the frozen Pangasius fillets, although the samples examined show a low incidence of Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus aureus. Thus, it would be desirable a greater attention to the operator's personal hygiene practices during the processing procedures, appropriate preservation techniques and sanitation programs in the processing plants to avoid cross‐contamination. The data contained in this study may also be useful for national and international food safety regulatory authorities.
Subgingivally delivered 1.2% atorvastatin in the treatment of chronic periodontitis among smokers: a randomized, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Kumari Minal , Martande Santosh S. , Pradeep Avani R.
Published: March 2016

Aim

Statins are known to have a beneficial effect in the treatment of chronic periodontitis (CP). The current study was designed to investigate the effectiveness of a 1.2% atorvastatin (ATV) local drug delivery system as an adjunct to scaling and root planing (SRP) in the treatment of intrabony defects (IBD) in CP among smokers.

Methods

Seventy‐one smokers with CP were categorized into two treatment groups: SRP + 1.2% ATV gel and SRP + placebo gel. Clinical parameters, modified sulcus bleeding index, probing depth, and clinical attachment level were recorded at baseline before SRP and at 3, 6, and 9 months. At baseline, 6 months, and 9 months, the percentage of radiographic defect depth reduction was determined using computer‐aided software.

Results

The mean probing depth reduction and mean clinical attachment level gain were found to be greater in the ATV group than the placebo group at 3, 6, and 9 months. A significantly greater mean percentage of radiographic defect depth reduction was found in the ATV group compared to the placebo group after 9 months.

Conclusion

The ATV local drug delivery as an adjunct to SRP can be used in the treatment of IBD in CP among smokers.
The Carbon Footprint of Norwegian Household Consumption 1999–2012
Authors: Steen‐Olsen Kjartan , Wood Richard , Hertwich Edgar G.
Published: March 2016

Environmentally extended input‐output analysis is the prevailing method for national environmental footprint accounting; however, its practical usefulness for consumers and policy makers suffers from lack of detail. Several extensive global multiregional input‐output (MRIO) databases have recently been released. A standard framework for linking such databases with the highly detailed household expenditure surveys that are conducted regularly by national statistics offices has the potential of providing analysts in countries worldwide with a powerful tool for in‐depth analyses of their national environmental footprints. In this article, we combine the Norwegian consumer expenditure survey with a global MRIO database to assess the carbon footprint (CF) of Norwegian household consumption in 2012, as well as its annual development since 1999. We offer a didactic account of the practical challenges associated with the combination of these types of data sets and the approach taken here to address these, and we discuss what barriers still remain before such analyses can be practically conducted and provide reliable results. We find a CF of 22.3 tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalents per household in 2012, a 26% increase since 1999. Transport, housing, and food were the expenditures contributing the most toward the total footprint. CF per unit of expenditure increased with overall expenditure levels (elasticity: 1.14), notably owing to the correlation between overall household expenditure and transport activities (elasticity: 1.48). Household energy use, which is generally inelastic, is, in Norway, largely based on hydropower and hence contributes comparatively little to the overall expenditure elasticity of household CF.
The role of sphingolipids in neuronal plasticity of the brain
Authors: Sonnino Sandro , Prinetti Alessandro
Published: March 2016

image

This Editorial highlights a study by Müller et al. in which the authors suggest a new sphingolipid‐dependent mechanism for behavioral extinction. Their study should be considered in the broad perspective of sphingolipid metabolic pathways and traffic (depicted in the graphic).

Read the highlighted article ‘A sphingolipid mechanism for behavioral extinction’ on page 589.
Preconditioning with recombinant high‐mobility group box 1 induces ischemic tolerance in a rat model of focal cerebral ischemia–reperfusion
Authors: Wang Chen , Liu Xiao‐Xi , Huang Kai‐Bin , Yin Su‐Bing , Wei Jing‐Jing , Hu Ya‐Fang , Gu Yong , Zheng Guo‐Qing
Published: March 2016

Preconditioning with ligands of toll‐like receptors (TLRs) is a powerful neuroprotective approach whereby a low dose of stimulus confers significant protection against subsequent substantial brain damage by reprogramming the ischemia‐activated TLRs signaling. Herein, we aim to explore whether preconditioning with recombinant high‐mobility group box 1 (rHMGB1), one of the TLRs ligands, decreases cerebral ischemia–reperfusion injury (IRI). Rats were intracerebroventricularly pretreated with rHMGB1, 1 or 3 days before induction of middle cerebral artery occlusion. Results showed that preconditioning with rHMGB1 1 day, but not 3 days, prior to ischemia dramatically reduced neurological deficits, infarct size, brain swelling, cell apoptosis, and blood–brain barrier permeability. Interleukin‐1R‐associated kinase‐M (IRAK‐M), a critical negative regulator of TLRs signaling, was robustly increased in response to brain IRI and was further elevated by rHMGB1 pretreatment, indicating its role associated with the rHMGB1 preconditioning‐mediated ischemic tolerance. In vitro and in vivo assays indicated that the induced IRAK‐M expression was localized in microglia. In addition, TLR4 specific inhibitor TAK‐242 abolished the neuroprotective effects and the induction of IRAK‐M offered by rHMGB1 preconditioning. Collectively, our study demonstrates that rHMGB1 preconditioning is neuroprotective during cerebral IRI, which is associated with activated TLR4/IRAK‐M signaling in microglia.

image

We found that high‐mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) pretreatment conditioned the brain against subsequent ischemia–reperfusion injury. We propose the following mechanism for HMGB1 preconditioning‐mediated ischemic tolerance: through toll‐like receptor TLR4, HMGB1 preconditioning magnifies the up‐regulation of interleukin‐1R‐associated kinase‐M (IRAK‐M) induced by ischemia‐reperfusion in microglia, resulting in the decreased phosphorylation of IRAK‐1. These findings are helpful in understanding the endogenous mechanisms that counteract ischemic insults.
Consumerism in the Digital Age
Authors: Kucuk S. Umit
Published: March 2016

This paper discusses “digital consumerism,” which is the application of traditional concepts of consumerism to consumer vulnerabilities in digital markets. The relationship of digital consumerism to paradigms of consumer empowerment and consumer vulnerabilities is discussed using examples from the relevant literature. The findings of this literature survey identify new aspects of consumerism in digital markets that have the potential to enhance consumer well‐being. The literature survey also revealed that consumer vulnerabilities have grown in complexity faster than regulative efforts. Therefore, there is a need for a reconceptualization of consumerism in order to improve consumer protections and to develop better functioning and healthier digital markets.
Lived experience of Korean nurses caring for patients on maintenance haemodialysis
Authors: Kim Sisook , Lee Hyunsook Zin , Hwang Eunhye , Song Juhyun , Kwon Hye‐Jin , Choe Kwisoon
Published: March 2016

Aims and objectives

To understand the lived experience of nurses who care for people undergoing maintenance haemodialysis.

Background

There is a lack of research regarding the lived experience of nurses caring for people undergoing chronic haemodialysis, in spite of an increased number of nurses and patients.

Design

A qualitative descriptive phenomenological study was conducted.

Methods

Fourteen nurses working at two haemodialysis centres in Korea were selected via purposive sampling and participated in in‐depth interviews. Data were collected from October 2013–January 2014 and analysed using the phenomenological research method.

Results

Four themes were extracted for haemodialysis nurses' caring experience: feelings of pity for clients scheduled for haemodialysis treatment; continuous effort to establish good relationships with clients; feeling comfortable with clients, as though they were family or friends; and reflecting on their own lives through the lives of clients.

Conclusions

Haemodialysis nurses experienced therapeutic relationships while taking care of clients undergoing haemodialysis; they also experienced maturation through reflection on their lives as nurses and human beings. An understanding of nurses' experiences in caring for people undergoing haemodialysis should be the basis of practice, education and nursing research in haemodialysis.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study could be helpful in enabling nursing students and/or nurses to understand the experience of caring and its meaning with respect to clients undergoing haemodialysis.
Tough love or bullying? New nurse transitional experiences
Authors: Leong Yee Mun Jessica , Crossman Joanna
Published: March 2016

Aims and objectives

This qualitative paper reports on the transition experiences of new nurses and preceptors in Singapore, focussing on the construction of a supervisor strategy termed ‘tough love’. The authors discuss the concept of tough love, as a metaphorical euphemism for workplace bullying and interrogate rationales from the data that behaviours associated with tough love, prepare nurses for independence and competence in their new responsibilities.

Background

Successful transition of new nurses to professional practice is dependent on the transition challenges they face at work. When new nurses are well supported in the clinical environment, retention occurs. However, when workplace adversity intensifies, nurse turnover rates increase.

Design

This qualitative study was conducted using a constructivist grounded theory approach.

Methods

New nurses (n = 26) and preceptors (n = 5) from five different hospitals participated in the study. Data were collected from semi‐structured interviews and reflective journal entries and analysed using the constant comparative method.

Findings

Data analysis gave rise to the generation of a definition of tough love, not otherwise identified in the literature, as the negative behaviours of senior nurses towards new nurses, that is rationalised as a well‐intentioned but nevertheless abusive strategy, used to condition targets into conforming to expected professional or organisational behaviour.

Conclusions

The authors conclude that tough love behaviour damages the transition experience of new nurses and has the potential to influence decisions on whether to remain in a health organisation and indeed the profession.

Relevance to clinical practice

Given nursing shortages in Singapore and internationally and that the retention of new nurses appears to be part of the problem, tough love behaviours and cultures clearly need to be addressed if investment into training and recruitment are to be realised.
Changing state of gynecologic oncologist specialty in Japan
Authors: Fujii Takuma
Published: March 2016

Gynecologic oncologists must have extensive knowledge regarding the methods of treating a diverse range of gynecologic cancers as well as the ability to perform cutting‐edge multidisciplinary treatments that frequently involve surgery. Given that coordination with other medical departments is vital for treatment, a high level of interpersonal and technical skills needs to be demonstrated to form the axis for medical treatment. One objective of the specialist certification system is the grooming of leaders as gynecologic oncologists while instructing trainees. The most distinguishing feature of Japanese gynecologic oncologists is that they need experience in more than 150 invasive cancer treatments, including more than 100 operations within the last 3–5 years. As for performance of surgery, at least 30 operations, including 15 radical hysterectomies, are required. Since surgical methods, including laparoscopic surgery, are undergoing a radical change, and increasing numbers of patients are undergoing radiotherapy for invasive cervical cancer, a review of the necessary requirements is critical. It is important to foster new leaders who are research‐oriented. Now is the time for marked reform with the new specialist certification system being introduced by the Japanese Medical Specialty Board. Japan has the advantage of offering medical services at a much lower cost because of its national health insurance system. However, specialists are currently not receiving clear benefits befitting their efforts, and the question of how to maintain their motivation is an issue for the future. For these purposes, I believe securing incentives is a critical issue for specialists.
Avoidance of sun exposure as a risk factor for major causes of death: a competing risk analysis of the Melanoma in Southern Sweden cohort
Authors: Lindqvist P. G. , Epstein E. , Nielsen K. , Landin‐Olsson M. , Ingvar C. , Olsson H.
Published: March 2016

Objective

Women with active sunlight exposure habits experience a lower mortality rate than women who avoid sun exposure; however, they are at an increased risk of skin cancer. We aimed to explore the differences in main causes of death according to sun exposure.

Methods

We assessed the differences in sun exposure as a risk factor for all‐cause mortality in a competing risk scenario for 29 518 Swedish women in a prospective 20‐year follow‐up of the Melanoma in Southern Sweden (MISS) cohort. Women were recruited from 1990 to 1992 (aged 25–64 years at the start of the study). We obtained detailed information at baseline on sun exposure habits and potential confounders. The data were analysed using modern survival statistics.

Results

Women with active sun exposure habits were mainly at a lower risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and noncancer/non‐CVD death as compared to those who avoided sun exposure. As a result of their increased survival, the relative contribution of cancer death increased in these women. Nonsmokers who avoided sun exposure had a life expectancy similar to smokers in the highest sun exposure group, indicating that avoidance of sun exposure is a risk factor for death of a similar magnitude as smoking. Compared to the highest sun exposure group, life expectancy of avoiders of sun exposure was reduced by 0.6–2.1 years.

Conclusion

The longer life expectancy amongst women with active sun exposure habits was related to a decrease in CVD and noncancer/non‐CVD mortality, causing the relative contribution of death due to cancer to increase.
A preliminary microarray assay of the miRNA expression signatures in buccal mucosa of oral submucous fibrosis patients
Authors: Chickooree Daminee , Zhu Keke , Ram Vahsish , Wu Han Jiang , He Zhi Jing , Zhang Sheng
Published: March 2016

Objectives

The objectives of this study are threefold: First is to perform a preliminary microarray analysis of miRNA expression profile to filter out differentially expressed miRNA in oral submucous fibrosis, second is to perform a bioinformatics analysis to identify miRNA‐specific predicted genes, and third to retrieve those miRNAs from literature and account for the findings of our investigations.

Methods

Buccal mucosa samples from three clinically evident OSF patients and three normal volunteers were collected. Agilent Human miRNA microarray experiments were carried out to analyze the miRNA expression profile in both OSF and normal tissues. To identify molecular pathways potentially altered by expression of miRNAs, DAVID software was used. This application performs an enrichment analysis of multiple miRNA target genes comparing each set of miRNA targets to known KEGG pathway.

Results

A total of 11 unique miRNAs were differentially expressed. The overexpressed miRNAs were hsa‐miR‐455‐3p, hsa‐miR‐455‐5p, and hsa‐miR‐623, and underexpressed miRNAs were hsa‐miR‐1290, hsa‐miR‐3180‐3p, hsa‐miR‐4792, hsa‐miR‐509‐3‐5p, hsa‐miR‐5189, hsa‐miR‐610, hsa‐miR‐760, and hsa‐miR‐921. Six miRNAs namely miR‐455, miR‐760, miR‐623, miR‐610 and miR‐509‐3‐5p were selected.

Conclusion

This study shows that miRNA chip can be used for high‐throughput screening of miRNA. Target prediction and annotation of the miRNAs demonstrated that the binding, metabolic process, molecular, and cellular process are the most common functions of the predicted targets of these newly identified miRNAs.
Anti-melanogenic effects of Aster spathulifolius extract in UVB-exposed C57BL/6J mice and B16F10 melanoma cells through the regulation of MAPK/ERK and AKT/GSK3β signalling
Authors: Hwang Ga Yeon , Choung Se-Young
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Pharmacological studies of Aster spathulifolius Maxim(AS) have demonstrated its anti-allergy, anti-viral and anti-obesity effects, however, its anti-melanogenic effects is still unclear. In this study, the effects of AS extract (ASE) on the inhibition of melanin synthesis were investigated in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

To perform this study, the contents of melanin and tyrosinase activity were analysed in B16F10 melanoma cells. Western blotting was carried out to determine the underlyling mechanism. Additionally, we investigated the effect of this extract on hyperpigmentation in C57bL/6J mice induced by 3, 6 and 9 weeks of UVB irradiation.

Key findings

AS extract led to reduced melanin synthesis through the regulation of MITF and its downstream signals. Furthermore, ASE increased the phosphorylation of MAPK/ERK and Akt/GSK3β signalling pathway components. In vivo study, hypopigmentation effects were also observed. The melanocyte activity and the distribution of melanin granules were decreased in UVB-irradiated mice treated with ASE.

Conclusions

These results suggest that the ASE may be promising as an active anti-melanogenic component, and further investigations should be performed regarding its potential as a whitening agent in the field of cosmetics.
Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) permeates ovine ruminal and jejunal epithelia, mainly by passive diffusion
Authors: Rackwitz R. , Gäbel G.
Published: March 2016

Gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) represents the most abundant inhibitory neurotransmitter in the mammalian brain. GABA is also produced in plants and/or by the microbial conversion of amino acids. Thus, ruminants may be forced to take up significant amounts of GABA from their diet. However, it is not known whether exogenously acquired GABA might permeate the gastrointestinal barrier in such quantities as to induce systemic alterations. Thus, this study pursues the question of where within the ruminant's GI tract and by which pathways GABA may be taken up from the ingesta. The jejunal and ruminal epithelia of sheep were mounted in Ussing chambers under short‐circuit conditions. The flux rates of radiolabelled GABA from the mucosal to the serosal side (Jms) and vice versa (Jsm) were measured. GABA was applied in various concentrations with adjustment of the mucosal pH to 6.1 or 7.4. Furthermore, beta‐alanine or glycine was used as a competitive inhibitor for GABA transport. In both the jejunal and ruminal epithelium, the Jms of GABA was linearly correlated to the mucosal GABA concentration. However, Jms across the jejunal epithelium was approximately 10‐fold higher than Jms across the ruminal epithelium. When 0.5 mmol/l GABA was applied on both sides of the epithelium, no net flux could be observed in the jejunal epithelia. Additionally, there was no effect of decreased mucosal pH or the application of glycine or beta‐alanine under these conditions. The Jms and Jsm of GABA were linearly correlated to the transepithelial conductance. Our results suggest that GABA is taken up from the small intestine rather than from the rumen. Due to the lack of influence of pH and competitive inhibitors, this uptake seems to occur primarily via passive diffusion.
Low parental tolerance for infant crying: an underlying factor in infant sleep problems?
Authors: Sadeh Avi , Juda‐Hanael Michal , Livne‐Karp Efrat , Kahn Michal , Tikotzky Liat , Anders Thomas F. , Calkins Susan , Sivan Yakov
Published: March 2016

Parenting behaviours play a major role in the evolution of infant sleep. Sleep problems in infancy have been associated with excessive parental involvement at night‐time, and with shorter delays in response to infant night wakings and signalling. Infant crying and sleep problems are linked, yet little is known about the impact of parental responses to crying on infant sleep patterns. This study examined the hypothesis that lower parental tolerance for crying is associated with infant sleep problems. We studied 144 married couples divided into three groups: parents of infants suffering from night‐waking problems (i.e. the clinical group), parents of infants without sleep problems and childless couples. Crying tolerance was assessed using questionnaires, audio recordings of crying infants and using a novel paradigm, in which participants were shown a video of a crying infant and asked when they would intervene. Parents in the clinical group demonstrated shorter intervention delays in the crying infant clip (group effect: P < 0.0001), and tended to attribute more distress to the crying infants compared to parents in both control groups (P < 0.05). Additionally, women demonstrated lower tolerance for infant crying on most measures compared to men. Our results suggest that parents of sleep‐disturbed infants appear to have lower tolerance for infant crying, which may be a predisposition underlying their excessive involvement in soothing their infants to sleep which may lead to the development of sleep problems. These preliminary findings should be explored further to assess their clinical validity and utility.
Blue tales of a blue‐tailed lizard: ecological correlates of tail autotomy in Micrablepharus atticolus (Squamata, Gymnophthalmidae) in a Neotropical savannah
Authors: Sousa H. C. , Costa B. M. , Morais C. J. S. , Pantoja D. L. , de Queiroz T. A. , Vieira C. R. , Colli G. R.
Published: March 2016

Tail autotomy and regeneration are perhaps the most dramatic adaptations to enhance survival among lizards. In spite of much work on the subject, the ecological significance of tail autotomy rates in natural populations remains elusive, due to difficulties in controlling several confounding factors and the paucity of accurate demographic data. On the basis of a capture–recapture study, we investigate the ecological determinants of tail autotomy rates in Micrablepharus atticolus, a blue‐tailed lizard from the South American Cerrado. We tested whether habitat (as a proxy of predation intensity), seasonality (as a proxy of intensity of social interactions), ontogeny and sex affected autotomy rates, and also whether autotomy rates affected body condition. We found that tail autotomy rates in M. atticolus are lower than in many other species with brightly colored tails, likely resulting from a small body size and fossorial habits. Autotomy rates were lower than expected by chance in the plot with lower mortality rates, suggesting a more prominent role of predation intensity instead of predator efficiency, and increased with age, suggesting cumulative effects of predation attempts along the ontogeny or age‐specific differences in predation intensity. We also found no intersexual differences or any effect of breeding activity on autotomy rates. Our results indicate that energetic costs of tail autotomy are low, or that animals compensate tail loss with increased foraging rates. These characteristics of M. atticolus seem tightly associated with its small body size, fossorial lifestyle and very short life span, and suggest that the costs of tail regeneration should be low.
Cytokeratin 18‐based cell death markers indicate severity of liver disease and prognosis of cirrhotic patients
Authors: Waidmann Oliver , Brunner Friederike , Herrmann Eva , Zeuzem Stefan , Piiper Albrecht , Kronenberger Bernd
Published: March 2016

Background & Aims

Hepatocyte death is an important factor in development and progression of cirrhosis. Cytokeratin 18‐based serum markers reflecting apoptotic (M30) and overall epithelial cell death (M65 and M65EpiDeath) have been used as prognostic parameters for survival in patients with acute liver failure. However, there has been no trial investigating M30, M65 and M65EpiDeath as survival parameters in patients with cirrhosis and acute‐on‐chronic liver failure.

Methods

Patients with cirrhosis were enrolled and followed until death, liver transplantation or last contact. M30, M65 and M65EpiDeath serum levels were quantified in patient's sera.

Results

Three hundred and thirty‐one patients were screened and 211 patients could be included in this study. The median duration of follow‐up was 322 days with a range of 1–1382 days. All three cell death parameters correlated with the extent of the severity of the disease. However, M65EpiDeath was the only of the three parameters which was associated with the severe complications of cirrhosis including ascites, spontaneous bacterial peritonitis and hepatorenal syndrome. Additionally, M65EpiDeath was the only cell death parameter which was independently from liver function and its surrogate parameter such as Child‐Pugh score and the model of end‐stage liver disease associated with overall survival.

Conclusions

Epithelial cell death reflected by M65EpiDeath serum levels is an indicator for the severity of cirrhosis and a prognostic survival parameter in cirrhotic patients.
Tpd3‐Pph21 phosphatase plays a direct role in Sep7 dephosphorylation in Candida albicans
Authors: Liu Qizheng , Han Qi , Wang Na , Yao Guangyin , Zeng Guisheng , Wang Yanming , Huang Zhenxing , Sang Jianli , Wang Yue
Published: March 2016

Septins are a component of the cytoskeleton and play important roles in diverse cellular processes including cell cycle control, cytokinesis and polarized growth. In fungi, septin organization, dynamics and function are regulated by phosphorylation, and several kinases responsible for the phosphorylation of several septins have been identified. However, little is known about the phosphatases that dephosphorylate septins. Here, we report the characterization of Tpd3, a structural subunit of the PP2A family of phosphatases, in the pathogenic fungus Candida albicans. We found that tpd3Δ/Δ cells are defective in hyphal growth and grow as pseudohyphae under yeast growth conditions with aberrant septin organization. Western blotting detected hyperphosphorylation of the septin Sep7 in cells lacking Tpd3. Tpd3 and Sep7 colocalize at the bud neck and can coimmunoprecipitate. Furthermore, we discovered similar defects in cells lacking Pph21, a catalytic subunit of the PP2A family, and its physical association with Tpd3. Importantly, purified Tpd3‐Pph21 complexes can dephosphorylate Sep7 in vitro. Together, our findings strongly support the idea that the Tpd3‐Pph21 complex dephosphorylates Sep7 and regulates morphogenesis and cytokinesis. The tpd3Δ/Δ mutant is greatly reduced in virulence in mice, providing a potential antifungal target.
Simple renal cysts in the solitary kidney: Are they innocent in adult patients?
Authors: Tatar Erhan , Ozay Emine , Atakaya Mehmet , Yeniay Pinar Kezban , Aykas Ahmet , Okut Gokalp , Yonguc Tarik , Imamoglu Cetin , Uslu Adam
Published: March 2016

In patients with a solitary kidney; residual renal volume is an important prognostic factor for kidney survival. At present, the impact of renal cysts on solitary kidney survival is not clear. The aim of this study is to examine the association of cysts on progression of renal failure in patients with a solitary kidney.

Methods

This study included sixtyfive solitary kidney patients. The remaining kidneys after indication nephrectomy (IN) were evaluated with urinary system ultrasound. The primary outcome of the study is the progression of kidney failure during follow‐up which was defined as: 25% decrease in glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and / or the need for renal replacement therapy (RRT).

Results

The mean age of the patients was 55 ± 14 years and mean follow‐up was 53 ± 27 months. Renal cysts were present in 30.7% of patients. 33.8 percent of patients had kidney disease progression and 10.7 % required RRT. Those with progressive disease were older (61 ± 13, 52 ± 14; P = 0.011), had lower baseline GFR (30 ± 11, 39 ± 18; P = 0.035), higher proteiuria (2.84 ± 0.58, 2.47 ± 0.57; P = 0.031) and frequently harboring cysts in the solitary kidney (52.3%, 20.4%; P = 0.006). Progression to kidney failure and RRT requirement in cases with or without renal cysts was (60% vs. 22%; P = 0.004) and (20% vs. 6.6%; P = 0.123), respectively. Acquired cysts in solitary kidney was independently associated with progression to kidney failure and RRT respectively (Exp(B) 3.173; P = 0.01 and Exp(B) 12.35; P = 0.04).

Conclusion

Simple renal cysts in solitary kidney patients with impaired renal function is associated with poor renal outcome. Large‐scale studies are needed to clarify this issue.
Desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma with focal cortical dysplasia: A rare double pathology in an infant with history of seizures
Authors: Gupta Kirti , Singla Navneet
Published: March 2016

We describe an extremely rare case of double pathology arising in an infant girl presenting with a history of intractable seizures, delayed milestones and enlarging head. The pathology included desmoplastic infantile ganglioglioma (DIG) and extensive focal cortical dysplasia in the overlying cortex. While tumors such as ganglioglioma have been commonly described to occur as concomitant pathology with cortical dysplasia, DIG in such an association has not been described in the literature. As DIG are voluminous supratentorial tumors, awareness about such an association is pertinent for correct diagnosis.
Contextual influence of Taiwanese adolescents' sexual attitudes and behavioral intent
Authors: Chen Angela Chia‐Chen , Neilands Torsten B. , Chan Shu‐Min , Lightfoot Marguerita
Published: March 2016

This study examined parental, peer, and media influences on Taiwanese adolescents' attitudes toward premarital sex and intent to engage in sexual behavior. Participants included a convenience sample of 186 adolescents aged 13–15 recruited from two middle schools in Taiwan. Parental influence was indicated by perceived parental disapproval toward premarital sex and perceived peer sexual behavior was used to measure peer influence. Media influence was measured by the adolescents' perception of whether the media promotes premarital sex. We conducted structural equation modeling to test a hypothesized model. The findings suggested that the perceived sexual behavior of peers had the strongest effect on Taiwanese adolescents' sexual attitudes and behavioral intent, while parental disapproval and media influence also significantly contributed to adolescents' sexual attitudes and intent to engage in sex. School nurses are in an ideal position to coordinate essential resources and implement evidence‐based sexually transmitted infection and HIV/AIDS prevention interventions that address issues associated with the influence of parents, peers, and media.
Arabidopsis CLAVATA1 and CLAVATA2 receptors contribute to Ralstonia solanacearum pathogenicity through a miR169‐dependent pathway
Authors: Hanemian Mathieu , Barlet Xavier , Sorin Céline , Yadeta Koste A. , Keller Harald , Favery Bruno , Simon Rüdiger , Thomma Bart P. H. J. , Hartmann Caroline , Crespi Martin , Marco Yves , Tremousaygue Dominique , Deslandes Laurent
Published: March 2016

Bacterial wilt caused by Ralstonia solanacearum is one of the most destructive bacterial plant diseases. Although many molecular determinants involved in R. solanacearum adaptation to hosts and pathogenesis have been described, host components required for disease establishment remain poorly characterized.

Phenotypical analysis of Arabidopsis mutants for leucine‐rich repeat (LRR)‐receptor‐like proteins revealed that mutations in the CLAVATA1 (CLV1) and CLAVATA2 (CLV2) genes confer enhanced disease resistance to bacterial wilt. We further investigated the underlying mechanisms using genetic, transcriptomic and molecular approaches.

The enhanced resistance of both clv1 and clv2 mutants to the bacteria did not require the well characterized CLV signalling modules involved in shoot meristem homeostasis, and was conditioned by neither salicylic acid nor ethylene defence‐related hormones. Gene expression microarray analysis performed on clv1 and clv2 revealed deregulation of genes encoding nuclear transcription factor Y subunit alpha (NF‐YA) transcription factors whose post‐transcriptional regulation is known to involve microRNAs from the miR169 family. Both clv mutants showed a defect in miR169 accumulation. Conversely, overexpression of miR169 abrogated the resistance phenotype of clv mutants.

We propose that CLV1 and CLV2, two receptors involved in CLV3 perception during plant development, contribute to bacterial wilt through a signalling pathway involving the miR169/NF‐YA module.
The homeodomain transcription factor TaHDZipI‐2 from wheat regulates frost tolerance, flowering time and spike development in transgenic barley
Authors: Kovalchuk Nataliya , Chew William , Sornaraj Pradeep , Borisjuk Nikolai , Yang Nannan , Singh Rohan , Bazanova Natalia , Shavrukov Yuri , Guendel Andre , Munz Eberhard , Borisjuk Ljudmilla , Langridge Peter , Hrmova Maria , Lopato Sergiy
Published: March 2016

Homeodomain leucine zipper class I (HD‐Zip I) transcription factors (TFs) play key roles in the regulation of plant growth and development under stresses. Functions of theTaHDZipI‐2gene isolated from the endosperm of developing wheat grain were revealed.

Molecular characterization of TaHDZipI‐2 protein included studies of its dimerisation, protein–DNAinteractions and gene activation properties using pull‐down assays, in‐yeast methods and transient expression assays in wheat cells. The analysis ofTaHDZipI‐2gene functions was performed using transgenic barley plants. It included comparison of developmental phenotypes, yield components, grain quality, frost tolerance and the levels of expression of potential target genes in transgenic and control plants.

TransgenicTaHDZipI‐2lines showed characteristic phenotypic features that included reduced growth rates, reduced biomass, early flowering, light‐coloured leaves and narrowly elongated spikes. Transgenic lines produced 25–40% more seeds per spike than control plants, but with 50–60% smaller grain size.In vivolipid imaging exposed changes in the distribution of lipids between the embryo and endosperm in transgenic seeds. Transgenic lines were significantly more tolerant to frost than control plants.

Our data suggest the role ofTaHDZipI‐2in controlling several key processes underlying frost tolerance, transition to flowering and spike development.
BODYGUARD is required for the biosynthesis of cutin in Arabidopsis
Authors: Jakobson Liina , Lindgren Leif Ove , Verdier Gaëtan , Laanemets Kristiina , Brosché Mikael , Beisson Fred , Kollist Hannes
Published: March 2016

The cuticle plays a critical role in plant survival during extreme drought conditions. There are, however, surprisingly, many gaps in our understanding of cuticle biosynthesis.

An Arabidopsis thaliana T‐DNA mutant library was screened for mutants with enhanced transpiration using a simple condensation spot method. Five mutants, named cool breath (cb), were isolated.

The cb5 mutant was found to be allelic to bodyguard (bdg), which is affected in an α/β‐hydrolase fold protein important for cuticle structure. The analysis of cuticle components in cb5 (renamed as bdg‐6) and another T‐DNA mutant allele (bdg‐7) revealed no impairment in wax synthesis, but a strong decrease in total cutin monomer load in young leaves and flowers. Root suberin content was also reduced. Overexpression of BDG increased total leaf cutin monomer content nearly four times by affecting preferentially C18 polyunsaturated ω‐OH fatty acids and dicarboxylic acids. Whole‐plant gas exchange analysis showed that bdg‐6 had higher cuticular conductance and rate of transpiration; however, plant lines overexpressing BDG resembled the wild‐type with regard to these characteristics.

This study identifies BDG as an important component of the cutin biosynthesis machinery in Arabidopsis. We also show that, using BDG, cutin can be greatly modified without altering the cuticular water barrier properties and transpiration.
Aneurysmal bone cyst of the zygomatic bone
Authors: Surej Kumar L.K. , Varun Menon P.
Published: March 2016

Aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) is a rare haemorrhagic, non‐neoplastic lesion, most commonly seen involving the long bone and spine. It is characterised by its expansile nature, high vascularity and multi‐cystic appearance. It is a rare lesion in the maxillofacial region with its occurrence more in the mandible than in the maxilla. So far only four cases of ABC in the zygoma have ever been reported in the English literature. Here we report a rare case of ABC of zygomatic bone with a short review.