bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
clpC operon regulates cell architecture and sporulation in Bacillus anthracis
Authors: Singh Lalit K. , Dhasmana Neha , Sajid Andaleeb , Kumar Prasun , Bhaduri Asani , Bharadwaj Mitasha , Gandotra Sheetal , Kalia Vipin C. , Das Taposh K. , Goel Ajay K. , Pomerantsev Andrei P. , Misra Richa , Gerth Ulf , Leppla Stephen H. , Singh Yogendra
Published: June 2014

The clpC operon is known to regulate several processes such as genetic competence, protein degradation and stress survival in bacteria. Here, we describe the role of clpC operon in Bacillus anthracis. We generated knockout strains of the clpC operon genes to investigate the impact of CtsR, McsA, McsB and ClpC deletion on essential processes of B. anthracis. We observed that growth, cell division, sporulation and germination were severely affected in mcsB and clpC deleted strains, while none of deletions affected toxin secretion. Growth defect in these strains was pronounced at elevated temperature. The growth pattern gets restored on complementation of mcsB and clpC in respective mutants. Electron microscopic examination revealed that mcsB and clpC deletion also causes defect in septum formation leading to cell elongation. These vegetative cell deformities were accompanied by inability of mutant strains to generate morphologically intact spores. Higher levels of polyhydroxybutyrate granules accumulation were also observed in these deletion strains, indicating a defect in sporulation process. Our results demonstrate, for the first time, the vital role played by McsB and ClpC in physiology of B. anthracis and open up further interest on this operon, which might be of importance to success of B. anthracis as pathogen.
Bilirubin oxidase‐like proteins from Podospora anserina: promising thermostable enzymes for application in transformation of plant biomass
Authors: Xie Ning , Ruprich‐Robert Gwenaël , Silar Philippe , Chapeland‐Leclerc Florence
Published: June 2014

Plant biomass degradation by fungi is a critical step for production of biofuels, and laccases are common ligninolytic enzymes envisioned for ligninolysis. Bilirubin oxidases (BODs)‐like are related to laccases, but their roles during lignocellulose degradation have not yet been fully investigated. The two BODs of the ascomycete fungus Podospora anserina were characterized by targeted gene deletions. Enzymatic assay revealed that the bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants lost partly a thermostable laccase activity. A triple mutant inactivated for bod1, bod2 and mco, a previously investigated multicopper oxidase gene distantly related to laccases, had no thermostable laccase activity. The pattern of fruiting body production in the bod1Δbod2Δ double mutant was changed. The bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants were reduced in their ability to grow on ligneous and cellulosic materials. Furthermore, bod1Δ and bod2Δ mutants were defective towards resistance to phenolic substrates and H2O2, which may also impact lignocellulose breakdown. Double and triple mutants were more affected than single mutants, evidencing redundancy of function among BODs and mco. Overall, the data show that bod1, bod2 and mco code for non‐canonical thermostable laccases that participate in the degradation of lignocellulose. Thanks to their thermal stability, these enzymes may be more promising candidate for biotechnological application than canonical laccases.
Finding a Place for Possession, Divination, and Trance within the Historical Perspective
Authors: Hartney Christopher
Published: June 2014

In this review article four publications from 2008–2010 are examined to assess the interplay between studies of possession, divination, and trance and historical method. The article avoids discussing the research in these works done from a purely anthropological or ethnographic stance, but focuses on the thematics of historiography. It does so by analysing the framing devices used in the predominantly historical research in the edition edited by Amar Annus and the monograph of Sarah Iles Johnston. Drawing these issues forward to the second set of texts, this article continues by looking at ways in which the seemingly a‐historical phenomena of divination, trance, and possession, can be accounted for historically. The article agrees with many of the commentators in these editions that the prevailing anxiety over the integration of history and divination and other “irregular” phenomena is generated by a narrow and sometimes ineffective scholarly mentality. This article concludes that alternative ways of making history must be considered if religious history seeks to claim an unbiased and less anxious approach to the study of phenomena that have hitherto eluded its processes.
Space and Identity in Resistance against Neoliberal Urban Planning in Turkey
Authors: Lelandais Gülçin Erdi
Published: June 2014

This article highlights the role of collective identity and space in the emergence of social resistance within a neoliberal context. It argues that the attempted eviction of residents from their established neighbourhoods through public planning projects generates resistance against the reappropriation of these spaces and has encouraged new forms of resistance among inhabitants in several neighbourhoods. I particularly emphasize that planning projects often displace particular populations by force, principally minority communities, in order to confine them to new resettlement areas far from their customary living places, which has a socioeconomic impact on people's identity, everyday life and social solidarity. The article is based on empirical research in two neighbourhoods in Istanbul — 1 Mayıs and Sulukule — to analyse practices of resistance of inhabitants in everyday life and examine how this resistance shapes their identity and daily life.
Influence of storage, brine concentration and in‐container heat treatment on the stability of white brined Nabulsi cheese
Authors: Al‐Dabbas Maher M , Saleh Mohammed , Abu‐Ghoush Mahmoud H , Al‐Ismail Khalid , Osaili Tareq
Published: June 2014

Microbial levels were significantly (P < 0.05) affected by the temperature‐time treatments used during in‐container heat treatment of the curd, brine concentration and storage duration. A heat treatment of 115 °C × 2 min, in the absence of NaCl, was sufficient to eliminate Mesophilic micro‐organisms, Coliforms, Staphylococcus aureus and Yeast and Moulds for the duration of 1 year of storage. Sensory scores for colour, appearance and texture increased significantly (P < 0.05) with the increase in the NaCl in brine concentration regardless of the temperature‐time treatment.
Whistleblowing: a critical philosophical analysis of the component moral decisions of the act and some new perspectives on its moral significance
Authors: O'Sullivan Patrick , Ngau Ola
Published: June 2014

Discussions of whistleblowing whether in academic literature or in more popular media have tended to very one‐sided assessments of the moral worth of the act. Indeed, much of the current literature concentrates on psychological or managerial aspects of whistleblowing while taking for granted this or that moral position or eschewing any normative commitment on the question. The purpose of this article is firstly to reemphasise the importance and complexity of the normative foundations of whistleblowing acts; and secondly, through a moral philosophical analysis of the component decisions that make up any act of whistleblowing, to contribute to a more balanced and less polarised treatment of the topic. It is argued that the polarisation of views on the topic is in part due to a failure to decompose the act of whistleblowing into a number of inevitable component moral decisions leading up to the act. It is furthermore argued on the basis of the analysis that it is impossible to state a priori as a matter of general principle that whistleblowing is always morally right (a good act) or morally wrong (a bad act). The article will close with a reflection on the degree to which the weighing up of good and bad in the act of whistleblowing differs sharply among cultures; and with a conjecture as to a possible relation to a people's history which may serve as a pointer to interesting future empirical research on the topic.
Docetaxel rechallenge after an initial good response in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer
Authors: Oudard Stéphane , Kramer Gero , Caffo Orazio , Creppy Lorraine , Loriot Yohan , Hansen Steinbjoern , Holmberg Mats , Rolland Frederic , Machiels Jean‐Pascal , Krainer Michael
Published: June 2014

Objective

To evaluate the benefit of docetaxel rechallenge in patients with metastatic castration‐resistant prostate cancer (mCRPC) relapsing after an initial good response to first‐line docetaxel.

Patients and Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the records of consecutive patients with mCRPC with a good response to first‐line docetaxel [serum prostate specific antigen (PSA) decrease ≥50%; no clinical/radiological progression]. We analysed the impact of management at relapse (docetaxel rechallenge or non‐taxane‐based therapy) on PSA response, symptomatic response (performance status/pain/analgesic consumption), and overall survival (OS). We used multivariate stepwise logistic regression to analyse potential predictors of a favourable outcome.

Results

We identified 270 good responders to first‐line docetaxel. The median progression‐free interval (PFI) was 6 months from the last docetaxel dose. At relapse, 223 patients were rechallenged with docetaxel (82.5%) and 47 received non‐taxane‐based therapy. There was no significant difference in median OS {18.2 [95% confidence interval (CI) 16.1–22.00] and 16.8 [95%CI 13.4–21.5] months, respectively, P = 0.35}. However, good PSA response and symptom relief/stable disease were more frequent on docetaxel rechallenge (40.4% vs 10.6%, P < 0.001 for PSA). A PFI of >6 months and added estramustine predicted a good PSA response and symptomatic response on docetaxel rechallenge but only a PFI of >6 months predicted longer OS. Haemoglobin (<13 g/dL) and pain were associated with reduced OS. Docetaxel rechallenge increased the incidence of grade ≥3 sensory neuropathy, nail disorders and asthenia/fatigue.

Conclusions

Docetaxel rechallenge is a management option for responders to docetaxel with a PFI of >6 months, but did not prolong survival. Potential benefits should be weighed against the risk of cumulative toxicity.
Futures of Tropical Forests (sensu lato)
Authors: Putz Francis E. , Romero Claudia
Published: June 2014

When net deforestation declines in the tropics, attention will be drawn to the composition and structure of the retained, restored, invaded, and created forests. At that point, the seemingly inexorable trends toward increased intensities of exploitation and management will be recognized as having taken their tolls of biodiversity and other forest values. Celebrations when a country passes this ‘forest transition’ will then be tempered by realization that what has been accepted as ‘forest’ spans the gamut from short‐rotation mono‐clonal stands of genetically engineered trees to fully protected old growth natural forest. With management intensification, climate change, species introductions, landscape fragmentation, fire, and shifts in economics and governance, forests will vary along gradients of biodiversity, novelty of composition, stature, permanence, and the relative roles of natural and anthropogenic forces. Management intensity will increase with the increased availability of financial capital associated with economic globalization, scarcity of wood and other forest products, demand for biofuels, improved governance (e.g., security of property rights), improved accessibility, and technological innovations that lead to new markets for forest products. In a few places, the trend toward land‐use intensification will be counterbalanced by recognition of the many benefits of natural and semi‐natural forests, especially where forest‐fate determiners are compensated for revenues foregone from not intensifying management. Land‐use practices informed by research designed and conducted by embedded scientists will help minimize the tradeoffs between the financial profits from forest management and the benefits of retention of biodiversity and the full range of environmental services.
Variations and Trade‐offs in Functional Traits of Tree Seedlings during Secondary Succession in a Tropical Lowland Rain Forest
Authors: Lu Xinghui , Zang Runguo , Ding Yi , Letcher Susan G. , Long Wenxing , Huang Yunfeng
Published: June 2014

The seedling stage is generally the most important bottleneck for the successful regeneration of trees in forests. The traits of seedlings, particularly biomass allocation and root traits, are more easily quantified than the traits of adults. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that seedling traits vary and trade‐off tracking the changing environment during secondary succession. We measured the major morphological traits of 27 dominant species and the major environmental factors in a chronosequence (30‐yr‐old fallow, 60‐yr‐old fallow, and old growth forest) after shifting cultivation in a tropical lowland rain forest on Hainan Island, China. The 30‐yr‐old fallow had higher light and nutrient availability, and the older forests had higher soil water content. Redundancy analysis based on species abundance and environmental factors revealed groups of seedlings that dominate in different stages of succession. Seedlings in different stages of succession had different strategies of biomass allocation for harvesting resources that varied in availability. Species characteristic of younger forest had higher allocation to roots and higher specific leaf area, while species characteristic of older forest had higher allocation to leaves. Our study suggests that the variations and trade‐offs in the major functional traits of tree seedlings among successional classes may reflect changes in environmental conditions during succession.
Synthesis and Evaluation of Salicylanilide Derivatives as Potential Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor Inhibitors
Authors: Hu Minhua , Ye Wenfeng , Li Jiaming , Zhong Guochen , He Guangwei , Xu Qinlong , Zhang Yanchun
Published: June 2014

Two series of novel salicylanilide were synthesized as potential epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitors. The enzyme inhibitory activity against EGFR of all compounds was carried out, and their antiproliferative activities against the A549 and A431 cell lines were also evaluated. Of the compounds studied, majority of them exhibited high antiproliferative activities compared with gefitinib; especially, 12a and 12b exhibited stronger inhibitory activity against EGFR with IC50 values of 10.4 ± 2.25 and 15.4 ± 2.33 nm, respectively, which were comparable to the positive control of gefitinib (IC50 = 12.1 ± 2.21 nm). Compound 12b also showed outstanding inhibitory activity against A431 and A549 cell lines with the IC50 values of 0.42 ± 0.43 μm and 0.57 ± 0.43 μm, which was better than the positive controls. In the molecular modeling study, compound 12b was bound into the active pocket of EGFR with two hydrogen bond and with minimum binding free energy ▵Gb = −25.1125 kcal/mol. The result also suggested that compound 12b could bind the EGFR kinase well.
A comparison of low‐dose ACTH, glucagon stimulation and insulin tolerance test in patients with pituitary disorders
Authors: Simsek Y. , Karaca Z. , Tanriverdi F. , Unluhizarci K. , Selcuklu A. , Kelestimur F.
Published: June 2014

Context

Diagnosis of secondary adrenal insufficiency and GH deficiency requires evaluation by dynamic stimulation tests in most cases. Although insulin tolerance test (ITT) is accepted as the gold‐standard test for the evaluation of both hypothalamo‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) and (GH)‐IGF‐1 axes, the test is cumbersome. In clinical practice, low‐dose adrenocorticotrophic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test is a sensitive, safe and easily applicable alternative to ITT. Although it takes more time, glucagon stimulation test (GST) is also a good alternative to ITT and can evaluate both axes.

Objective

The primary aim of this study was to compare the ITT, low‐dose ACTH and GSTs in the evaluation of HPA and GH‐IGF‐1 axes in patients with pituitary disorders and to evaluate the repeatability of all three tests.

Design

ITT, low‐dose ACTH and GSTs were performed in all 129 patients, and the tests were repeated in 66 of these patients.

Setting

Erciyes University Medical School, Department of Endocrinology.

Patients or Other Participants

One hundred and twenty‐nine adult patients (76 women, 53 men) with pituitary disorder were included in the study.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

The cortisol and GH responses of patients to dynamic tests.

Results

Peak cortisol levels obtained during ITT were significantly lower than the values obtained during both low‐dose ACTH and GSTs. Peak cortisol levels obtained during the GST were lower than those found during the low dose ACTH stimulation test. Peak GH responses were found to be higher in GST than in ITT. All three tests had good reproducibility.

Conclusions

Any of 3 tests can be used in the evaluation of the HPA axis and either GST or the ITT can be used in the evaluation of the GH‐IGF‐1 axis but cut‐off levels for the insufficiency of HPA or GH‐IGF‐1 axis should be individualized for each test.
Discrepancy between strength and function in adults with obstetric brachial plexus lesions
Authors: Nelson Virginia Simson
Published: June 2014

This commentary is on the original article by Anguelova et al. on pages 984–989 of this issue.
Corpus callosum alterations in pyridoxine‐dependent epilepsy: a mirror image of an ongoing disease?
Authors: Schmitt Bernhard
Published: June 2014

This commentary is on the original article by Friedman et al. on pages 1106–1110 of this issue.
The Rate of Degradation of Chemical Cues Indicating Predation Risk: An Experiment and Review
Authors: Van Buskirk Josh , Krügel Andri , Kunz Julia , Miss Fabia , Stamm Alba
Published: June 2014

Many prey taxa use kairomones or alarm pheromones to assess the risk of predation in aquatic environments, and the rate at which these cues attenuate determines how precisely they indicate the local density of predators. We estimated the rate of degradation of chemical cues generated by Aeshna dragonfly larvae feeding on Rana temporaria tadpoles. The half‐life of the cue was 35 h and was not influenced by whether it was aged in pond water or tap water or whether other tadpoles were present in the container in which cue‐aging occurred. A review of other published estimates of predator cue half‐life revealed values of 0.2–126 h, and variation among studies was unrelated to the type of aging water, the venue in which water was aged or prey behavior observed (laboratory, field), or the type of behavior that was recorded. We conclude that factors affecting the persistence of predator cues remain uncertain in spite of their importance for understanding the evolution of induced defenses.
Assortative Pairings in Diamond Firetails (Stagonopleura guttata) are not the Result of Mutual Mate Choice for an Ornament
Authors: Zanollo Valeria , Griggio Matteo , Robertson Jeremy , Kleindorfer Sonia
Published: June 2014

Positive assortative mating occurs when individuals with similar phenotypes mate more frequently with each other than is expected by chance. In species in which both the males and females are ornamented, assortative pairings could arise from mutual mate choice on the same trait. We test this mechanism of mate choice and assortative pairing in the Diamond Firetail (Stagonopleura guttata), an Australian estrildid finch in which both sexes are ornamented with red bills, red rumps and white flank spots. We have previously shown sex differences in the degree of ornamentation as females have more flank spots than males. These white flank spots are used during sexual display, being fully displayed by courting males and by females when approaching a displaying male. Here, we experimentally test whether mutual mate preference is based on the number of flank spots. There was no evidence for a direct mutual preference for spot number. Given a choice of potential mates with a natural or experimentally manipulated number of flank spots, males preferred females with more spots, while female preference was not solely based on flank spots. Intriguingly, in both wild and captive Diamond Firetails, we found the number of flank spots in pairs was correlated suggesting a basis for positive assortative pairing. Nevertheless, we conclude that assortative pairing in Diamond Firetails is not due to mutual choice of mates based on the number of flank spots. We discuss different selection pathways for this trait in each sex.
DNA element downstream of the κB site in the Lcn2 promoter is required for transcriptional activation by IκBζ and NF‐κB p50
Authors: Kohda Akira , Yamazaki Soh , Sumimoto Hideki
Published: June 2014

The nuclear protein IκBζ activates transcription of a subset of NF‐κB‐dependent innate immune genes such as Lcn2 encoding the antibacterial protein lipocalin‐2. IκBζ functions as a coactivator via its interaction with NF‐κB p50, which contains a DNA‐binding Rel‐homology domain but lacks a transcriptional activation domain. However cis‐regulatory elements involved in IκBζ function have remained unknown. Here, we show that, although IκBζ by itself is unable to associate with the Lcn2 promoter, IκBζ interacts with the promoter via p50 binding to the NF‐κB‐binding site (κB site) and the interaction also requires the pyrimidine‐rich site (CCCCTC) that localizes seven bases downstream of the κB site. The pyrimidine‐rich site is also essential for IκBζ‐mediated activation of the Lcn2 gene. Introduction of both sites into an IκBζ‐independent gene culminates in IκBζ–p50–DNA complex formation and transcriptional activation. Furthermore, spacing between the two sites is crucial for both IκBζ–DNA interaction and IκBζ‐mediated gene activation. Thus, the pyrimidine‐rich IκBζ‐responsive site plays an essential role in productive interaction of IκBζ with the p50–DNA complex.
First analysis of 10‐year trends in national factor concentrates usage in haemophilia: data from CHARMS, the Canadian Hemophilia Assessment and Resource Management System
Authors: Traore A. N. , Chan A. K. C. , Webert K. E. , Heddle N. , Ritchie B. , St‐Louis J. , Teitel J. , Lillicrap D. , Iorio A. , Walker I.
Published: June 2014

The Canadian Hemophilia Assessment and Resource Management System (CHARMS) tracks factor concentrates (FC) from the sole suppliers, Canadian Blood Services (CBS) and Hema‐Quebec (HQ), to hospitals and to patients’ homes. Patients FC infusion data are entered into CHARMS at Canadian Hemophilia Treatment Centres (HTCs) then exported to the national database (CentrePoint). From 2000 to 2009, 2260 registered haemophilia A or B patients received FVIII (1 009 097 765 IU) and FIX (272 406 859 IU). Over 91% of FVIII and over 84% of FIX was infused at home. Utilization of FVIII progressively increased; this was accounted for by an increase in the number of patients treated (r = 0.97; P < 0.001), there being a linear relationship between the increase in utilization and the increase in number of patients treated (P < 0.001). There was also a correlation with the annual amount used per patient (r = 0.95; P < 0.001). Utilization of FIX did not increase over time. The highest proportional utilization of both FVIII and FIX was for prophylaxis, and this proportion progressively increased being, in year 10 (2009), 77% and 66% for FVIII and FIX respectively. The proportion used for bleeding remained steady; in year 10 that proportion was 14% for FVIII and 26% for FIX, the use per patient for bleeding decreasing. The HTC‐based CHARMS tracking system is essential, in Canada, for analysing indications for infusion, for predicting utilization and planning for future needs.
Characterization of the Aluminas Formed During the Thermal Decomposition of Boehmite by the Rietveld Refinement Method
Authors: Jiménez Jose A. , Padilla Isabel , López‐Delgado Aurora , Fillali Laila , López‐Andrés Sol
Published: June 2014

Boehmite synthesized through a sol‐gel route from a nonconventional raw material, as an aluminum waste, was calcined at temperatures between 500 and 1500°C. Quantification of crystalline phases was performed by the Rietveld refinement of the XRD patterns. γ‐Al2O3 is formed at 500°C, and up to 1000°C, is the dominant phase. At temperatures ranging from 1000 to 1400°C, it was observed the appearance of a four‐phase region. The complete transformation into α‐Al2O3 lasts until 12 h at 1400°C or at higher temperatures. The presence of an amorphous phase in calcined samples was confined by direct comparison with a standard of pure α‐Al2O3.
Recurrence and progression in patients with non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer: Prognostic models including multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization molecular grading
Authors: Lodde Michele , Mian Christine , Mayr Roman , Comploj Evi , Trenti Emanuela , Melotti Roberto , Campodonico Fabio , Maffezzini Massimo , Fritsche Hans‐Martin , Pycha Armin
Published: June 2014

Objective

To test the prognostic value of multicolor fluorescence in situ hybridization analyses of tumor cells in urine for prediction of the recurrence and progression of tumor in patients with intermediate risk non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer.

Methods

A total of 168 patients with non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer were included in the study. Fluorescence in situ hybridization was carried out on the bladder wash urine collected before resection. Tumors were classified as low molecular grading if they had a diploid chromosomal pattern or only a loss of p16 or ch3 aneuploidy, and as high molecular grading if they showed aneuploidy of ch7 or 17. Cox regression models assessed the added prognostic value of fluorescence in situ hybridization for primary tumor recurrence or progression, respectively.

Results

Median follow up was 67 months. A total of 57% of tumors were classified as low molecular grading. The 2‐ and 5‐year recurrence‐free survival was 68% and 49% for low molecular grading, and 47% and 30% for high molecular grading, respectively. The 2‐ and 5‐year progression‐free survival was 95% and 84% for low molecular grading, and 79% and 58% for high molecular grading tumor patients, respectively. Molecular grading (hazard ratio 1.60; P = 0.03) was associated with recurrence, when also accounting for histopathology and a patient's characteristics. Both cancer severity score (hazard ratio 1.51; P < 0.01) and molecular grading (hazard ratio 2.53; P < 0.01) independently and positively predicted progression in multivariable models. The C‐index for predicting recurrence increased from 0.58 to 0.61 when molecular grading fluorescence in situ hybridization was included in the model, and from 0.68 to 0.72 when predicting progression.

Conclusions

Fluorescence in situ hybridization‐based molecular grading increases the accuracy of a prognostic model, predicting both recurrence and progression in patients with intermediate risk non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer.
piRNA pathway gene expression in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi
Authors: Macias V. , Coleman J. , Bonizzoni M. , James A. A.
Published: June 2014

The ability of transposons to mobilize to new places in a genome enables them to introgress rapidly into populations. The piRNA pathway has been characterized recently in the germ line of the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, and is responsible for downregulating transposon mobility. Transposons have been used as tools in mosquitoes to genetically transform a number of species including Anopheles stephensi, a vector of human malaria. These mobile genetic elements also have been proposed as tools to drive antipathogen effector genes into wild mosquito populations to replace pathogen‐susceptible insects with those engineered genetically to be resistant to or unable to transmit a pathogen. The piRNA pathway may affect the performance of such proposed genetic engineering strategies. In the present study, we identify and describe the An. stephensi orthologues of the major genes in the piRNA pathway, Ago3, Aubergine (Aub) and Piwi. Consistent with a role in protection from transposon movement, these three genes are expressed constitutively in the germ‐line cells of ovaries and induced further after a blood meal.
Liver transplantation for the treatment of homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia in an era of emerging lipid‐lowering therapies
Authors: Page M. M. , Ekinci E. I. , Jones R. M. , Angus P. W. , Gow P. J. , O'Brien R. C.
Published: June 2014

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) causes severe premature coronary artery disease because of very high levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL)‐cholesterol. Standard lipid‐lowering drugs and LDL‐apheresis may not be sufficiently effective. Liver transplantation replaces defective LDL receptors and vastly improves the lipid profile, and we present the first report of an Australian adult to receive this treatment. Emerging drug treatments for FH may be alternatives to LDL‐apheresis and transplantation, but long‐term safety and efficacy data are lacking for all of these options.
Atrial Pacing Site and Atrioventricular Conduction in Patients Paced for Sinus Node Disease
Authors: WATABE TAICHI , ABE HARUHIKO , KOHNO RITSUKO , OGINOSAWA YASUSHI , HAYASHI KATSUHIDE , OHE HISAHARU , TAMURA MASAHITO , TAKEUCHI MASAAKI , OTSUJI YUTAKA
Published: June 2014

Atrial Pacing Site and AV Conduction

Background

Unnecessary ventricular pacing in sinus node disease (SND) must be avoided. To test the hypothesis that in SND, with or without 1st degree atrioventricular (AV) block, cumulative percent ventricular pacing (cum%VP) can be limited by low right atrial septal (LRAS) instead of right atrial appendage (RAA) pacing.

Methods

We studied 102 dual‐chamber pacemaker recipients with SND. The PQ interval on 12‐lead electrocardiogram and the atrial paced to ventricular sensed interval (Ap‐Vs) during LRAS and RAA pacing were measured and compared at implantation, 3 months and 1 year of follow‐up. Group 1 included 62 patients with baseline PQ interval <200 milliseconds during LRAS (n = 28) versus RAA (n = 34) pacing. Group 2 included 40 patients with baseline PQ ≥200 milliseconds during LRAS (n = 20) versus RAA (n = 20) pacing. cum%VP were measured at 3 months and 1 year.

Results

The characteristics and AV conduction properties were similar and the Ap‐Vs interval was significantly shorter in the LRAS than in the RAA pacing group up to 1 year (193 ± 32 milliseconds vs. 220 ± 27 milliseconds in Group 1; P = 0.003, 222 ± 41 milliseconds vs. 281 ± 30 milliseconds in Group 2; P < 0.001). While cumulative percent atrial pacing was consistently similar, cum%VP was significantly smaller during LRAS than RAA pacing (1 ± 1% vs. 8 ± 18% in Group 1; P = 0.03, 7 ± 10% vs. 48 ± 38% in Group 2; P < 0.001). Similar observations were made with or without left atrial (LA) enlargement.

Conclusion

Compared with RAA, LRAS pacing showed shorter AV interval in SND patients with or without 1st degree AV block and LA enlargement. This beneficial effect persisted through 1‐year follow‐up, and decreased cum%VP significantly.
Ventricular Fibrillation Triggered by PVCs from Papillary Muscles: Clinical Features and Ablation
Authors: SANTORO FRANCESCO , BIASE LUIGI DI , HRANITZKY PATRICK , SANCHEZ JAVIER E. , SANTANGELI PASQUALE , PERINI ALESSANDRO PAOLETTI , BURKHARDT JOHN DAVID , NATALE ANDREA
Published: June 2014

VF from Papillary Muscle

Background

Animal studies showed that papillary muscles can be sources of ventricular fibrillation (VF) in both the left and right ventricle, but this occurrence in humans has been described only in patients with ischemic heart disease.

Objective

To investigate the role of papillary muscle premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) as triggers for VF and the safety and feasibility of catheter ablation in these patients.

Methods

Six patients (2 male; age, 40 ± 11 years; 5 with a normal structural heart and 1 with nonischemic cardiomyopathy) with history of VF resulting in repetitive implantable cardioverter defibrillator shocks, despite antiarrhythmic drug therapy, and a papillary muscle focus of PVCs triggering VF were included and underwent mapping and ablation of PVCs.

Results

PVCs were observed to trigger VF and localized by mapping the earliest activation point that matched pace mapping of the same area. In 2 patients, PVCs originated from the left ventricle at the posteromedial papillary muscle; in 4 patients, PVCs originated from the right ventricle, at the posterolateral papillary muscle. Elimination of the triggering PVC was obtained in these areas after 19 ± 12 minutes by radiofrequency application. During a follow‐up of 58 ± 11 months using ambulatory monitoring and defibrillator memory interrogation, no patients had recurrence of symptomatic ventricular arrhythmias.

Conclusion

Papillary muscles from both ventricles represent an anatomic structure potentially involved in the onset of VF, also in normal structural heart. PVCs arising from this area can be successfully eliminated by radiofrequency ablation, resulting in freedom from recurrent VF at long‐term follow‐up.
Quantification of dynamic changes to blood volume and vascular flow in the primate corpus luteum during the menstrual cycle
Authors: Bishop Cecily V. , Molskness Theodore A. , Xu Fuhua , Belcik J. Todd , Lindner Jonathan R. , Slayden Ov D. , Stouffer Richard L.
Published: June 2014

Background

The objective of the current study was to determine changes to vascular parameters of nonhuman primate dominant ovarian structures by dynamic contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (DCE‐US).

Materials and Methods

Dynamic contrast‐enhanced ultrasound with intravenous microbubble infusion was performed on the rhesus macaque ovary bearing the pre‐ovulatory follicle and corpus luteum (CL) sequentially during the natural luteal phase (n = 8) and GnRH antagonist (antide)‐induced luteal regression (n = 6).

Results

Changes in luteal blood volume (BV) and vascular flow (VF) were observed between stages of the luteal phase Luteal BV was highest in early stage CL, before decreasing 2.5‐fold in late stage CL (P < 0.06); in contrast, luteal VF peaked at mid luteal stage (P < 0.01). Two females identified with luteal insufficiency trended toward lower peak BV, compared to typical CLs. Another female was identified with a luteal cyst on the contralateral ovary, and a CL that regressed before P levels declined. After 72 hours of antide exposure, BV was reduced 2.3‐fold (P = 0.03).

Conclusions

DCE‐US provides a sensitive, non‐invasive measurement of the dynamics of blood volume and flow in dominant ovarian structures.
New Uses for Rehabilitation Protocol for Oral Sinus Communications in ARONJ Patients
Authors: de Almeida Fernanda Campos Sousa , Moreira Maria Stella , Marcucci Marcelo , Marques Marcia Martins , de Araujo Maria Ercilia , da Silva Dorival Pedroso
Published: June 2014

This report presents a new use for rehabilitation protocol for oral sinus communications in patients with antiresorptive agent‐induced osteonecrosis of the jaw. The treatment plan consisted of constructing an atraumatic complete denture with rounded edges, made with nontoxic resin, to prevent any injury to the mucosa and recurrence of the disease. The patient was followed up for 4 years, without any complications, and was socially reintegrated by resuming the normal life he experienced before tooth loss.
Impact of dental anxiety and fear on dental care use inBrazilian women
Authors: Goettems Marília Leão , Schuch Helena Silveira , Demarco Flávio Fernando , Ardenghi Thiago Machado , Torriani Dione Dias
Published: June 2014

Objectives

This study investigated the relationship between dental anxiety and fear, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, and dental attendance patterns in a sample of women inBrazil.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study of women in healthcare centers was conducted during an immunization campaign in the city ofPelotas in southernBrazil. Interviews were conducted to assess dental anxiety and fear, education level, family income, marital status, and the use of dental services. Data were analyzed byPoisson regression models, with estimation of the prevalence ratio and the rate ratio (RR).

Results

A total of 608 women aged 16‐50 years (mean age 29.3 ± 7.2 years) were included in the study. Dental anxiety and fear scores (according toCorah'sDentalAnxietyScale) ranged from 4 to 20. Of the 608 participants, 59.5 percent displayed low dental fear, 18.1 percent had moderate dental fear, and 22.4 percent displayed high dental fear. A total of 60.2 percent of the women exhibited irregular dental attendance patterns, characterized by never visiting a dentist, or only visiting when experiencing pain. After adjustments, the presence of at least moderate dental anxiety and fear was associated with low education levels (RR1.43; 95 percentCI1.11‐1.84), low family income (RR1.33; 95 percentCI1.06‐1.68), and irregular dental attendance patterns (RR1.83; 95 percentCI1.41‐2.37).

Conclusions

In this sample ofBrazilian women, dental anxiety and fear were strongly associated with socioeconomic characteristics and dental attendance patterns.
Deaf Capital: An Exploration of the Relationship between Stigma and Value in Deaf Multilevel Marketing Participation in Urban India
Authors: Friedner Michele
Published: June 2014

This article ethnographically examines how some deaf people in urban India have begun to orient themselves toward the future by participating in multilevel marketing businesses. In the absence of other structural possibilities for deaf future‐making, deaf Indians have turned to such businesses in search of social, economic, and moral livelihood. This article analyzes participation in one particular business and asks how participating within the business both enables and disables the cultivation of specific ideas of development. Particular attention is devoted to exploring the multiple registers of the concept of “deaf development” and how such development may be cultivated through multilevel marketing businesses. This article aims to make a critical intervention in medical anthropology studies of disability by arguing that disability (or in this case deafness) can function as a source of value, therefore highlighting tensions between stigma and value.
The novel globin protein fungoglobin is involved in low oxygen adaptation of Aspergillus fumigatus
Authors: Hillmann Falk , Linde Jörg , Beckmann Nicola , Cyrulies Michael , Strassburger Maria , Heinekamp Thorsten , Haas Hubertus , Guthke Reinhard , Kniemeyer Olaf , Brakhage Axel A.
Published: June 2014

The human pathogenic fungus Aspergillus fumigatus normally lives as a soil saprophyte. Its environment includes poorly oxygenated substrates that also occur during tissue invasive growth of the fungus in the human host. Up to now, few cellular factors have been identified that allow the fungus to efficiently adapt its energy metabolism to hypoxia. Here, we cultivated A. fumigatus in an O2‐controlled fermenter and analysed its responses to O2 limitation on a minute timescale. Transcriptome sequencing revealed several genes displaying a rapid and highly dynamic regulation. One of these genes was analysed in detail and found to encode fungoglobin, a previously uncharacterized member of the sensor globin protein family widely conserved in filamentous fungi. Besides low O2, iron limitation also induced transcription, but regulation was not entirely dependent on the two major transcription factors involved in adaptation to iron starvation and hypoxia, HapX and SrbA respectively. The protein was identified as a functional haemoglobin, as binding of this cofactor was detected for the recombinant protein. Gene deletion in A. fumigatus confirmed that haem‐binding fungoglobins are important for growth in microaerobic environments with O2 levels far lower than in hypoxic human tissue.
Functional mapping of community‐acquired respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS) toxin of Mycoplasma pneumoniae defines regions with ADP‐ribosyltransferase, vacuolating and receptor‐binding activities
Authors: Kannan Thirumalai R. , Krishnan Manickam , Ramasamy Kumaraguruparan , Becker Argentina , Pakhomova Olga N. , Hart P. John , Baseman Joel B.
Published: June 2014

Community‐acquired respiratory distress syndrome (CARDS) toxin from Mycoplasma pneumoniae is a 591‐amino‐acid virulence factor with ADP‐ribosyltransferase (ADPRT) and vacuolating activities. It is expressed at low levels during in vitro growth and at high levels during colonization of the lung. Exposure of experimental animals to purified recombinant CARDS toxin alone is sufficient to recapitulate the cytopathology and inflammatory responses associated with M. pneumoniae infection in humans and animals. Here, by molecular modelling, serial truncations and site‐directed mutagenesis, we show that the N‐terminal region is essential for ADP‐ribosylating activity. Also, by systematic truncation and limited proteolysis experiments we identified a portion of the C‐terminal region that mediates toxin binding to mammalian cell surfaces and subsequent internalization. In addition, the C‐terminal region alone induces vacuolization in a manner similar to full‐length toxin. Together, these data suggest that CARDS toxin has a unique architecture with functionally separable N‐terminal and C‐terminal domains.
Maize Elongin C interacts with the viral genome‐linked protein, VPg, of Sugarcane mosaic virus and facilitates virus infection
Authors: Zhu Min , Chen Yuting , Ding Xin Shun , Webb Stephen L. , Zhou Tao , Nelson Richard S. , Fan Zaifeng
Published: June 2014

The viral genome‐linked protein, VPg, of potyviruses is involved in viral genome replication and translation. To determine host proteins that interact with Sugarcane mosaic virus (SCMV) VPg, a yeast two‐hybrid screen was used and a maize (Zea mays) Elongin C (ZmElc) protein was identified.

ZmELC transcript was observed in all maize organs, but most highly in leaves and pistil extracts, and ZmElc was present in the cytoplasm and nucleus of maize cells in the presence or absence of SCMV. ZmELC expression was increased in maize tissue at 4 and 6 d post SCMV inoculation. When ZmELC was transiently overexpressed in maize protoplasts the accumulation of SCMV RNA was approximately doubled compared with the amount of virus in control protoplasts.

Silencing ZmELC expression using a Brome mosaic virus‐based gene silencing vector (virus‐induced gene silencing) did not influence maize plant growth and development, but did decrease RNA accumulation of two isolates of SCMV and host transcript encoding ZmeIF4E during SCMV infection. Interestingly, Maize chlorotic mottle virus, from outside the Potyviridae, was increased in accumulation after silencing ZmELC expression.

Our results describe both the location of ZmElc expression in maize and a new activity associated with an Elc: support of potyvirus accumulation.
Predictors and Outcomes of Community Agency Use in Abused Mothers
Authors: Gilroy Heidi , Maddoux John , Symes Lene , Fredland Nina , McFarlane Judith
Published: June 2014

Objective

To identify characteristics of abused mothers that predict use and difficulty of use of community agencies for intimate partner violence (IPV) and to describe the outcomes of community agency use.

Design and Sample

A prospective study design was used. Three hundred mothers who had experienced physical or sexual IPV and were seeking services for the first time at either a safe shelter for abused women or applying for a protection order.

Measures

Data were collected and analyzed by the research team. Predictors were tested using binary logistic regression and outcomes were tested using a series of Mann‐Whitney U nonparametric test of difference on change scores between baseline and 24‐month scores.

Results

No individual predictors were statistically significant and/or meaningful for use or difficulty using community agencies. There were significant differences in change scores for severity of violence after women used counseling, the police, or legal services. There were also significant change scores for anxiety after women used legal services and social services.

Conclusions

Abused women need individualized attention to assure that they can access the services they need to recover from IPV. Evidence‐based practice is needed for community agencies to treat abused women to facilitate safety and health.
Pharmacological Treatment for Common Prostatic Conditions in Dogs – Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia and Prostatitis: an Update
Authors: Niżański W , Levy X , Ochota M , Pasikowska J
Published: June 2014

Contents

The two most frequent prostatic diseases in dogs are benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) and prostatitis. Prostatitis requires prolonged antibiotic treatment. In acute prostatitis, the blood–prostate barrier is broken, thus facilitating the penetration of antibiotics, whereas in chronic prostatitis, the barrier prevents the penetration of many drugs into the gland. The selection of antibiotic agents is based on the sensitivity test and the drug's ability to penetrate into the gland. Many protocols for the treatment ofBPHare available. In non‐breeding dogs, surgical and optionally pharmacological castration by means of GnRHagonists may be performed. In breeding dogs, drugs retaining fertility are used. Recently, androgen receptor antagonistic treatment with osaterone acetate has been applied. Other drugs used forBPHtreatment include progestagens, oestrogens, antioestrogens and 5α‐reductase inhibitors. Some of these compounds may provoke severe side effects. The efficiency of GnRHantagonists used for the treatment of prostatic diseases, such as neoplasia andBPH, in humans has been recently investigated in dogs. This androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) is devoid of an initial exacerbation of androgen‐dependent symptoms, which is typical for GnRHagonistic treatment. In many cases,BPHand prostatitis must be treated simultaneously as these conditions may develop in combination.
Cats and Dogs: Two Neglected Species in this Era of Embryo Production in Vitro?
Authors: Van Soom A , Rijsselaere T , Filliers M
Published: June 2014

Contents

During the last decades, in vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a routine technique in most domestic animals. However, in the dog the technique has lagged behind, with to date not a single pup born after IVF. In cats, healthy kittens have been born, but in fewer numbers than in cattle and horses. In pet animals, research in reproduction has mainly been focused on contraception, although recently, the introduction of new drugs especially marketed for cats and dogs will probably expand fertility research in carnivores towards the previously neglected area of assisted reproduction. In particular, the dog remains a real challenge for the reproductive biologist, due to the low meiotic capacity of canine follicular oocytes. In cats, oocyte maturation is less of a problem and embryo production rates comparable to those of cattle can be achieved. The domestic cat is a valuable model for endangered felids and it can even be used as a recipient for wild felid embryos. In this short review, we list some of the problems associated with the implementation of IVF in dogs and cats in relation to their reproductive characteristics, and we discuss the state‐of‐the‐art of IVF in several other domestic species such as cattle, horses and pigs.