bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ectopic Expression of miR160 Results in Auxin Hypersensitivity, Cytokinin Hyposensitivity, and Inhibition of Symbiotic Nodule Development in Soybean
Authors: Turner Marie , Nizampatnam Narasimha Rao , Baron Mathieu , Coppin Stéphanie , Damodaran Suresh , Adhikari Sajag , Arunachalam Shivaram Poigai , Yu Oliver , Subramanian Senthil
Published: June 2013

Symbiotic root nodules in leguminous plants result from interaction between the plant and nitrogen-fixing rhizobia bacteria. There are two major types of legume nodules, determinate and indeterminate. Determinate nodules do not have a persistent meristem, while indeterminate nodules have a persistent meristem. Auxin is thought to play a role in the development of both these types of nodules. However, inhibition of rootward auxin transport at the site of nodule initiation is crucial for the development of indeterminate nodules but not determinate nodules. Using the synthetic auxin-responsive DR5 promoter in soybean (Glycine max), we show that there is relatively low auxin activity during determinate nodule initiation and that it is restricted to the nodule periphery subsequently during development. To examine if and what role auxin plays in determinate nodule development, we generated soybean composite plants with altered sensitivity to auxin. We overexpressed microRNA393 to silence the auxin receptor gene family, and these roots were hyposensitive to auxin. These roots nodulated normally, suggesting that only minimal/reduced auxin signaling is required for determinate nodule development. We overexpressed microRNA160 to silence a set of repressor auxin response factor transcription factors, and these roots were hypersensitive to auxin. These roots were not impaired in epidermal responses to rhizobia but had significantly reduced nodule primordium formation, suggesting that auxin hypersensitivity inhibits nodule development. These roots were also hyposensitive to cytokinin and had attenuated expression of key nodulation-associated transcription factors known to be regulated by cytokinin. We propose a regulatory feedback loop involving auxin and cytokinin during nodulation.
Ontogenetic changes in the body temperature of an insect herbivore
Authors: Woods H. Arthur
Published: June 2013

Over ontogeny, many insect larvae grow substantially, through at least several orders of magnitude in body size. Increasing size can profoundly change how individuals interact with their environments, by altering the opportunities for, and constraints on, feeding, changing the relative risk and sources of predation and shifting the relative importance of physical factors in the environment.

Here I use eggs and larvae of Manduca sexta, which are herbivores on solanaceous plants in the south‐western US, to examine how body size affects body temperature. Larvae grow in excess of 10 000‐fold by mass in a few weeks, from 0·001‐g hatchlings to 12–15‐g fifth‐instar larvae.

Using infrared thermography, I show that increasing body size leads to large changes in body temperature: over ontogeny, average larval temperature increased by 3–7 °C. The temperatures of eggs, hatchlings and early larval instars were coupled to leaf temperatures (Datura wrightii), which were much cooler than ambient air temperatures. The temperatures of larger larvae, by contrast, were similar to air temperatures, or somewhat higher.

Changing body temperatures reflect that small and large larvae were immersed differentially in leaf boundary layers, received different amounts of incoming solar radiation, and used thermal heterogeneity on leaf surfaces in different ways.

I develop a simple species distribution model that links maximum observed air temperatures in the south‐western US with known thermal tolerances of eggs and larvae. This model predicts that eggs of M. sexta can occupy significantly larger fractions of the landscape than can large larvae.

Large differences among stage‐specific microclimates, such as those observed for M. sexta, are likely to be general features for insects and other organisms whose body sizes span large ranges, and stage‐specific microclimates pose general and largely unrecognized problems for species distribution models.
Phylogeny determines the role of helminth parasites in intertidal food webs
Authors: Poulin Robert , Krasnov Boris R. , Pilosof Shai , Thieltges David W.
Published: June 2013

Parasites affect interactions among species in food webs and should be considered in any analysis of the structure, dynamics or resilience of trophic networks.

However, the roles of individual parasite species, such as their importance as connectors within the network, and what factors determine these roles, are yet to be investigated. Here, we test the hypotheses that the species roles of trematode, cestode and nematode parasites in aquatic food webs are influenced by the type of definitive host they use, and also determined by their phylogenetic affiliations.

We quantified the network role of 189 helminth species from six highly resolved intertidal food webs. We focused on four measures of centrality (node degree, closeness centrality, betweenness centrality and eigenvalue centrality), which characterize each parasite's position within the web, and on relative connectedness of a parasite species to taxa in its own module vs. other modules of the web (within‐module degree and participation coefficient).

All six food webs displayed a significant modular structure, that is, they consisted of subsets of species interacting mostly with each other and less with species from other subsets. We demonstrated that the parasites themselves are not generating this modularity, though they contribute to intermodule connectivity.

Mixed‐effects models revealed only a modest influence of the type of definitive host used (bird or fish) and of the web of origin on the different measures of parasite species roles. In contrast, the taxonomic affiliations of the parasites, included in the models as nested random factors, accounted for 37–93% of the total variance, depending on the measure of species role.

Our findings indicate that parasites are important intermodule connectors and thus contribute to web cohesion. We also uncover a very strong phylogenetic signal in parasite species roles, suggesting that the role of any parasite species in a food web, including new invasive species, is to some extent predictable based solely on its taxonomic affiliations.
Genetic basis of pathogen community structure for foundation tree species in a common garden and in the wild
Authors: Busby Posy E. , Newcombe George , Dirzo Rodolfo , Whitham Thomas G.
Published: June 2013

Genetic variation within and among foundation plant species is known to affect arthropod, plant and soil microbial communities. We hypothesized that the same would be expected for pathogen communities, which have typically been studied only as individual pathogen species.

In a common garden in Utah, USA, we first tested how genetic differences within and among Populus angustifolia, P. fremontii and their interspecific hybrid P. × hinckleyana affect a fungal leaf pathogen community. Next, we tested how Populus genetic differences at the level of species and hybrids affect fungal leaf pathogen communities in the wild, specifically in a natural Populus hybridization zone (13 river km) and throughout the larger Weber River watershed (150 river km).

In the common garden, genetic variation both within and among Populus species and hybrids significantly affected the structure (i.e. species abundances and composition) of pathogen communities. In the wild, genetic variation among Populus species and hybrids also significantly affected pathogen communities, though not as strongly as was found in the common garden environment. Stand‐level density of the susceptible Populus species most strongly affected the structure of pathogen communities in the hybrid zone.

Synthesis. Plant species and genotypic variation can affect the local and geographic distribution of pathogen communities in a similar fashion as other diverse organisms (e.g. arthropods, plants, soil microbes), both within a relatively controlled common garden environment and in the wild.
Light, temperature, dry after‐ripening and salt stress effects on seed germination of Phleum sardoum (Hackel) Hackel
Authors: Santo Andrea , Mattana Efisio , Frigau Luca , Bacchetta Gianluigi
Published: June 2013

Phleum sardoum is an endemic psammophilous species of Sardinia, growing exclusively on coastal sandy dunes. The effect of glumes on seed germination, germination requirements at constant (5–25°C) and alternating (25/10°C) temperatures, both in the light (12/12 h) and in the dark were evaluated, as well as the effect of a dry after‐ripening period (90 days at 25°C), the salt stress effect (0–600 mmol NaCl) and its recovery on seed germination. The presence of glumes reduced final germination percentages. For fresh naked seeds, high germination percentages were observed at 10°C. Dry after‐ripening increased germination rate at low temperatures, but did not affect final germination percentages. NaCl determined a secondary salt‐induced dormancy which recovery interrupted only partially. Our results highlighted that this species has its optimum of germination during autumn–winter when, under a Mediterranean climate, water availability is highest and soil salinity levels are minimal.
Urban forest corridors in Australia: Policy, management and technology
Authors: Wang M‐Z , Merrick J.R.
Published: June 2013

This paper demonstrates the importance of the remaining urban forests, and the related policy and management issues, by reviewing the current situation in Sydney, Australia. Transport corridor vegetation surveys are used to show challenges and implications for the future.

The process of medium to long‐term policy formulation, with initial management strategy development at the local level, is outlined. This study also addresses the increasing need for integration with other urban issues, including the existing general urban forest strategies. The benefits of using active remote sensing technologies are illustrated by using light detection and ranging (LiDAR) data to generate a high resolution, 3‐dimensional surface model.

Among the major transport corridors in the Sydney metropolitan area, segments of two long‐established main roads were selected for detailed studies of the roadside forest resource. Data analysis indicated that roadside trees are very diverse and distributed in a patchy way. Some areas are treeless and some have dense stands. The results also showed high variability in species composition between local areas, with canopy cover and shading varying widely. We identify a number of issues and lessons from conservation, pollution and socio‐economic perspectives, which have broader applications, and relate these findings back to policies and planning.
Transposable elements and microevolutionary changes in natural populations
Authors: Bonchev Georgi , Parisod Christian
Published: June 2013

Transposable elements (TEs) usually represent the most abundant and dynamic fraction of genomes in almost all living organisms. The overall capacity of such ‘junk DNA’ to induce mutations and foster the reorganization of functional genomes suggests that TE may be of central evolutionary significance. However, to what extent TE dynamics drive and is driven by the evolutionary trajectory of host taxa remains poorly known. Further work addressing the fate of TE insertions in natural populations is necessary to shed light on their impact on microevolutionary processes. Here, we highlight methodological approaches (i.e. transposon displays and high‐throughput sequencing), tracking TE insertions across large numbers of individuals and discuss their pitfalls and benefits for molecular ecology surveys.
Early experience of reinforcing the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract procedure with a bioprosthetic graft (BioLIFT) for anal fistula
Authors: Tan Ker‐Kan , Lee Peter J.
Published: June 2013

Background

The BioLIFT procedure involves placing a bioprosthetic graft in the intersphincteric space during the ligation of the intersphincteric fistula tract (LIFT) procedure. Our study was aimed to describe our experience in the BioLIFT procedure.

Methods

A review of all patients who underwent the BioLIFT procedure for anal fistula from September 2011 to August 2012 was performed. Endoanal ultrasonography and manometry tests were performed in all patients.

Results

Thirteen patients with 16 fistulas underwent the BioLIFT procedure. All of them had at least a seton inserted previously and the median interval to the BioLIFT procedure was 20 (range, 10–41) weeks. Four patients failed a prior LIFT procedure. More than half of the fistulas (56.3%) had anterior internal openings and there was a female preponderance (n = 7, 53.8%). Over a median follow up of 26 (12–51) weeks, 11 (68.8%) fistulas had healed. The median interval between the BioLIFT procedure to the diagnosis of failure was 3 (2–7) weeks. All five failures had only isolated discharges at the intersphincteric wounds. Two had already undergone successful lay‐open fistulotomy, giving a secondary success rate of 81.3%. The remaining three patients are on review. No patient developed incontinent symptoms following the BioLIFT procedure and there were no significant differences between the pre‐procedural or post‐procedural maximal resting and squeeze anal manometric pressures.

Conclusion

The BioLIFT procedure can achieve a primary success rate of 68.8%. When coupled with a simple lay‐open fistulotomy for the subsequent intersphincteric fistula, the success rate in eradicating the fistula rose to 81.3%.
Perceiving a Presidency in Black (and White): Four Years Later
Authors: Gaither Sarah E. , Wilton Leigh S. , Young Danielle M.
Published: June 2013

When Barack Obama became the “first Black President” of the United States in 2008, researchers examined how his election impacted Americans’ views of racial progress. When he was reelected in 2012, the minority status of the president had become less novel. In the present study, we investigated whether perceptions concerning racial progress varied: (1) before and after President Obama's reelection; (2) by whether President Obama was labeled as biracial or Black; and (3) among White and Black individuals. We replicated past findings to demonstrate that after Obama's reelection, White participants reported that our country had made racial progress and decreased their support for equality programs (e.g., affirmative action). Our results also revealed that labeling President Obama as either biracial or Black did not affect views of racial progress. Additionally, Black participants categorized President Obama as Black more than White participants, while White participants categorized President Obama as White more than Black participants. We discuss these results in terms of the impacts of racial beliefs that stem from exposure to a minority leader.
Laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for totally intrarenal tumours
Authors: Nadu Andrei , Goldberg Hanan , Lubin Marc , Baniel Jack
Published: June 2013

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility and outcomes of laparoscopic partial nephrectomy (LPN) for totally intrarenal tumours (TIT).

Patients and Methods

TIT were defined as completely intraparenchymatic masses, without any exophytic element. Identification of such a tumour necessitates guidance of intraoperative laparoscopic ultrasonography.

Data of patients with TIT who underwent LPN was collected from our Ethical Committee‐approved database. Their data was compared with that of patients who underwent LPN for tumours with any degree of exophytic element.

The two groups were compared for preoperative data (age, gender, tumour size and location), intraoperative variables (warm ischemia time [WIT], open conversions rate, radical nephrectomy [RN] rate, blood loss and other complications), and postoperative data (renal function, reoperation rates, pathological results, and incidence of positive surgical margins).

Results

Among 458 patients who underwent LPN, 41 had TIT. The mean (sd) tumour size was 2.6 (0.8) cm, mean WIT was 22.6 (13.8) min and blood loss was 279 (210) mL. The RN rate was significantly higher in the TIT group compared with the remaining cohort of LPNs (9.7% vs 5.3%). The intra‐ and postoperative complications, open conversion and positive margin rates were similar between the two groups. Malignant tumours were found in 84.2% and 78.2%, respectively.

Conclusions

LPN for a TIT is technically feasible. TIT carry a significantly higher RN rate due to tumour involvement of vital kidney structures. This aspect should be discussed with the patient preoperatively but TIT should not be considered a definitive indication for RN.
A longitudinal study of anxiety, depression and distress as predictors of sexual and urinary quality of life in men with prostate cancer
Authors: Punnen Sanoj , Cowan Janet E. , Dunn Laura B. , Shumay Dianne M. , Carroll Peter R. , Cooperberg Matthew R.
Published: June 2013

Objective

To evaluate the prevalence of depression, anxiety and distress among active surveillance (AS) and radical prostatectomy (RP) patients.

To evaluate the impact of these symptoms at baseline on urinary and sexual quality of life at follow‐up.

Patients and Methods

Patients managed with AS or RP who completed validated questionnaires assessing levels of depression, anxiety, distress and urinary (UF) and sexual function (SF) and bother comprised the final analytic cohort.

These measures were completed at baseline, within 1 year, and between 1 and 3 years from baseline.

Mixed model repeated measures analysis was used to examine associations between mental health at baseline and sexual and urinary outcomes in a subset of RP patients with complete follow‐up.

Results

Among 679 men who comprised the study cohort, baseline prevalence of moderate or higher levels of depression or anxiety were low (<5%), while levels of mild depression or anxiety ranged from 3–16% over time.

Baseline levels of elevated distress ranged from 8–20%.

Among men who provided data at baseline and follow‐up, there were no significant differences between AS and RP patients in the proportion of men with elevated levels of depression, anxiety, or distress.

Among 177 men who underwent RP and had complete follow‐up moderate or higher levels of depression or anxiety appeared to be associated with post‐treatment SF and bother, while elevated levels of distress were associated with post‐treatment UF.

Conclusion

Moderate or higher levels of depression or anxiety were low in men with localised prostate cancer but were associated with sexual outcomes, while elevated distress was associated with urinary outcomes.

Greater attention should be paid to mental health symptoms among men with prostate cancer, as these symptoms may be associated with quality of life outcomes.
B6.g7 mice reconstituted with BDC2·5 non-obese diabetic (BDC2·5NOD) stem cells do not develop autoimmune diabetes
Authors: Rajasekaran N , Wang N , Hang Y , Macaubas C , Rinderknecht C , Beilhack G F , Shizuru J A , Mellins E D
Published: June 2013

In BDC2·5 non-obese diabetic (BDC2·5NOD) mice, a spontaneous model of type 1 diabetes, CD4+ T cells express a transgene-encoded T cell receptor (TCR) with reactivity against a pancreatic antigen, chromogranin. This leads to massive infiltration and destruction of the pancreatic islets and subsequent diabetes. When we reconstituted lethally irradiated, lymphocyte-deficient B6.g7 (I-Ag7+) Rag–/– mice with BDC2·5NOD haematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPC; ckit+Lin–Sca-1hi), the recipients exhibited hyperglycaemia and succumbed to diabetes. Surprisingly, lymphocyte-sufficient B6.g7 mice reconstituted with BDC2·5NOD HSPCs were protected from diabetes. In this study, we investigated the factors responsible for attenuation of diabetes in the B6.g7 recipients. Analysis of chimerism in the B6.g7 recipients showed that, although B cells and myeloid cells were 98% donor-derived, the CD4+ T cell compartment contained ∼50% host-derived cells. These host-derived CD4+ T cells were enriched for conventional regulatory T cells (Tregs) (CD25+forkhead box protein 3 (FoxP3)+] and also for host- derived CD4+CD25–FoxP3– T cells that express markers of suppressive function, CD73, FR4 and CD39. Although negative selection did not eliminate donor-derived CD4+ T cells in the B6.g7 recipients, these cells were functionally suppressed. Thus, host-derived CD4+ T cells that emerge in mice following myeloablation exhibit a regulatory phenoytpe and probably attenuate autoimmune diabetes. These cells may provide new therapeutic strategies to suppress autoimmunity.
Validation of a stoma‐specific quality of life questionnaire in a sample of patients with colostomy or ileostomy
Authors: Canova C. , Giorato E. , Roveron G. , Turrini P. , Zanotti R.
Published: June 2013

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine how socio‐demographic and clinical variables affect quality of life (QoL) and to assess the validity of a 20‐item scale in a sample of Italian subjects with colostomy, ileostomy and multiple stomata.

Method

A cross‐sectional multicentre survey was carried out in Italy between 2009 and 2010 in 73 stoma centres coordinated by the University of Padova. Patients aged 18 years old and above with a history of nontemporary stoma were included in the study. The Stoma Care QoL scale was measured and validated using a Rasch model. Socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics were considered in the analyses.

Results

Two hundred and fifty‐one patients were recruited for the study; the mean age was 62 years, 58% were men, 72% had colostomy and 25% ileostomy; approximately 70% of patients had intestinal cancer requiring a stoma, 13% a complication and 10% an inflammatory disease. No significant differences were observed throughout strata in the Stoma Care QoL scale index, except for geographical area, where subjects from south Italy showed a significantly lower index than subjects living in other parts of Italy (P < 0.01). Colostomy and ileostomy patients reported very similar QoL. Cronbach's alpha for the Stoma Care QoL scale was 0.90 (95% CI 0.88–0.92). Rasch analysis supported the viability of the Stoma Care QoL scale questionnaire and showed acceptable goodness‐of‐fit. Three under‐fitted items were observed.

Conclusion

The study confirms the validity of the 20‐item Stoma Care QoL scale questionnaire as a research tool for stoma patients but the number of items could be reduced.
ALL ECONOMIC FREEDOM IS NOT CREATED EQUAL: EVIDENCE FROM A GRAVITY MODEL
Authors: SONORA ROBERT J.
Published: June 2013

This article analyzes the differential impacts of different types of economic freedom on bilateral trade flows between the United States and 122 countries over 10 years. A gravity model of trade is employed to investigate how various freedom indices assembled by the Fraser Institute impact the volume of trade, exports, and imports. The main findings of the article are that each of the freedom indices impact heterogeneously across the measure of trade flows, with the changes in Regulation having the biggest impact on trade. All combinations of freedom are used to find the mixture of freedom which yields the largest trade gains. The largest gains from trade generally combine Business Regulation in a variety of different configurations. The smallest gains, or losses, to trade arise with augmented monetary independence. (JEL D02, F14, F55)
Cyclosporine versus everolimus: effects on the glomerulus
Authors: Baas Marije C. , Kers Jesper , Florquin Sandrine , de Fijter Johan W. , Homan van der Heide Jaap J. , van den Bergh Weerman Marius A. , ten Berge Ineke J. M. , Bemelman Frederike J.
Published: June 2013

Inhibitors of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) have been associated with proteinuria. We studied the development of proteinuria in renal transplant recipients (RTR) treated with the mTOR inhibitor everolimus in comparison with a calcineurin inhibitor. We related the presence of proteinuria to histopathological glomerular findings in two‐yr protocol biopsies. In a single‐center study, nested in a multicenter randomized controlled trial, we determined eGFR, proteinuria, and renal biopsy data (light‐ and electron microscopy) of RTR receiving prednisolone/everolimus (P/EVL) (n = 16) in comparison with patients treated with prednisolone/cyclosporine A (P/CsA) (n = 7). All patients had been on the above‐described maintenance immunosuppression for 18 months. Renal function at two yr after transplantation did not differ between patients receiving P/EVL or P/CsA (eGFR 45.5 vs. 45.7 mL/min/1.73 m2). Proteinuria was slightly increased in P/EVL vs. P/CsA group (0.29 vs. 0.14 g/24 h, p = 0.06). There were no differences in light‐ or electron microscopic findings. We could not demonstrate increased podocyte effacement or changes in glomerular basement membrane (GBM) thickness in P/EVL‐treated patients. In conclusion, long‐term treatment with everolimus leaves the GBM and podocytes unaffected.
Cortical speech sound differentiation in the neonatal intensive care unit predicts cognitive and language development in the first 2 years of life
Authors: Maitre Nathalie L , Lambert Warren E , Aschner Judy L , Key Alexandra P
Published: June 2013

Aim

Neurodevelopmental delay in childhood is common in infants born preterm, but is difficult to predict before infants leave the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). We hypothesized that event‐related potential (ERP) methodology characterizing the cortical differentiation of speech sounds in hospitalized infants would predict cognitive and language outcomes during early childhood.

Methods

We conducted a prospective study of 57 infants in NICU (34 male, gestational age at birth 24–40wks), quantifying the amplitude of ERP responses to speech sounds before discharge (median gestational age 37.1wks), followed by standardized neurodevelopmental assessments at 12 months and 24 months. Analyses were performed using ordinary least squares linear regression.

Results

Overall validity of constructs using all ERP variables, as well as sex, maternal education, gestational age, and age at ERP, was good and allowed significant prediction of cognitive and communication outcomes at 12 months and 24 months (R2=22–42%; p<0.05). Quantitative models incorporating specific ERPs, gestational age, and age at ERP explained a large proportion of the variance in cognition and receptive language on the Bayley Scales of Infant Development at 24 months (R2>50%; p<0.05).

Interpretation

This study establishes ERP methodology as a valuable research tool to quantitatively assess cortical function in the NICU and to predict meaningful outcomes in early childhood.
Measurement of physical activity in children and adolescents with cerebral palsy: the way forward
Authors: Mitchell Louise , Ziviani Jenny , Boyd Roslyn
Published: June 2013

This commentary is on the original article by Maher et al. on pages 827–833 of this issue.
Urban Economic Governance, Business and Globalisation: Australasia's ‘Committee‐for‐[City]’ Phenomenon
Authors: Wetzstein Steffen
Published: June 2013

This article explores the nexus between urban economic governance, business and globalisation in light of new empirical research about the emergence of ‘Committee‐for‐[City]’ entities in Australasia. It critically reviews key claims of the international literature on business‐mediated urban economic governance from both structural and post‐structural urban political economy, business mobilisation and globalisation perspectives in order to test these largely northern hemisphere‐centric theories against new research findings on business as emergent political and policy actor in Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Auckland. On the basis of a conceptualisation that contemporary ‘at‐a‐distance’ urban economic interventions are essentially discursive public–private partnerships, the paper highlights the important role of business interests in the context of a co‐opting and partnering state. Although it is found that established notions such as ‘urban growth machines’ and ‘entrepreneurial governance’ are (still) relevant to explain the nature and work of these new business governance actors in Australasia, the influence of globalising processes and the constitutive nature of the institutional and socio‐economic context must be more thoroughly acknowledged. The hybrid nature of the governing objectives pursued and the multiplicity of political projects at work mean that governance and investment outcomes resulting from business‐mediated urban economic interventions cannot be assumed but must be traced and evaluated in careful empirical investigations.
Racing Economic Geography: The Place of Race in Economic Geography
Authors: Bonds Anne
Published: June 2013

In this paper, I provide a critical overview of research in economic geography on race and racialization. I begin with a discussion about the connections between geography and processes of racialization. I then move into an examination of the kinds of engagements economic geographers are undertaking in research examining racial difference and the racialized implications of economic policy and practice. Drawing from the insights of feminist economic geographers as well as critical race scholars, I argue that while economic geographers have long engaged in research that illustrates racially uneven economic outcomes, race remains under‐examined in economic geography. I conclude with a call for increased scholarship on race in economic geography, suggesting that economic geographers draw from research that interrogates the foundational nature of race and relational racialization to interrogate the mutually constitutive nature of ‘race’ and ‘economy’.
Targeted delivery of siRNA against hepatitis B virus by preS1 peptide molecular ligand
Authors: Huang Wenjuan , Li Xia , Yi Min , Zhu Sufen , Chen Weixian
Published: June 2013

Aim

For chronic hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, the effects of current therapies are limited. RNA interference of virus‐specific genes has emerged as a potential antiviral mechanism. However, a suitable delivery vector is still to be developed. We studied a novel vector transferring siRNA targeting hepatic cells in vivo and in vitro in order to find a new way to cure HBV‐related live diseases.

Methods

The preS1‐9Arg ligand was used to deliver siRNA to HepG2 and to HepG2 2.2.15 cells. To validate the antiviral efficacy in vivo, a HBV viremic animal model was established by s.c. inoculation of HepG2 2.2.15 tumor cells in nude mice. The minimal retardation effect on the migration of siRNA was detected by gel electrophoresis to confirm the combination and the optimal ratio. Hepatitis B surface antigen (HBsAg) levels were detected by semiquantitatively enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay RNA levels were quantified with quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and protein levels were determined with immunoblots and immunohistochemistry.

Results

PreS1‐9Arg peptide strongly combined and transferred siRNA into HepG2 cells. PreS1‐9Arg‐siRNA molecular conjugate effectively reduced the production of HBsAg and HBV DNA without liver toxicity in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

The results indicated that preS1‐9Arg may be a potential novel vector to deliver siRNA targeting liver cells.
Curative and Aesthetic Results of Surgical Treatment of 138 Basal‐Cell Carcinomas
Authors: MARCHAC DANIEL , PAPADOPOULOS OTHON , DUPORT GÉRARD
Published: June 2013

We herewith present a review of 138 basal‐cell carcinomas, mostly on the face, that were treated by surgical excision and immediate repair. In a few cases, frozen sections were taken to ensure complete excision of the neoplasm. Local flaps were favored; distant flaps and full‐thickness skin grafts were required in selected cases. The recurrence rate with a minimum of 3 years of follow‐up is 2.1%. Cosmetic results, evaluated by the patients themselves and by one of the authors (CD.) who did not participate in the surgery, were judged “excellent,” that is, without visible scars or deformities, in 61.4% of the cases, and “good” in 31.4%. The results are discussed.
A Second Look at Chemabrasion
Authors: STAGNONE JAMES J. , STAGNONE GREGORY J.
Published: June 2013

Chemabrasion is reviewed as a single procedure in which a deep, full‐face chemical peel is followed immediately by dermabrasion. In the past few years new information has encouraged some individualization of the chemical aspects of this procedure. A discussion of some factors to consider in selecting chemical agents and our recommendations based on over 5 years of experience are included. In addition, we present some useful refinements of the chemabrasion procedure.
Hyperpigmentation of Transplanted Terminal Hairs after Punch Hair Grafting
Authors: NORDSTRÖM ROLF E. A.
Published: June 2013

Permanent hyperpigmentation of terminal hairs after punch hair grafting is reported. To the author's knowledge, this occurrence has not been reported previously in the literature. The reason for this hyperpigmentation is unknown.
Malignant Melanoma Prognostic Factors 3: Surgical Margins
Authors: DAY CALVIN L. , LEW ROBERT A.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Narrow margins of excision for melanomas less than 0.85 mm thick neither shorten the length of survival nor increase the local recurrence rate. Similarly, narrow margins of excision for melanomas greater than 0.85 mm thick do not adversely affect the survival rate. However, for thicker melanomas, the local recurrence rate increases when the surgical margin is reduced to less than 3 cm.
Metastatic Renal‐Cell Carcinoma Presenting as a Cutaneous Horn
Authors: PETERSON JOHN L. , McMARLIN STACY L.
Published: June 2013

Abstract. Renal‐cell carcinoma develops as an insidious neoplasm, frequently metastasizing to the skin. Cutaneous manifestations vary regarding morphology and sites of predilection. A patient was recently seen demonstrating a metastasis from a renal neoplasm. The lesion was unusual in that it grossly resembled a cutaneous horn. Dermatologists should continue to be alert to the possibility of renal tumor metastasis when evaluating cutaneous tumors.
Inhibition of Wound Healing by Topical Steroids
Authors: MARKS JAMES G. , CANO CHERYL , LEITZEL KIM , LIPTON ALLAN
Published: June 2013

Abstract. A new animal model was used to study the effect of topical agents on wound healing. A weak‐ (hydrocortisone cream 1%) and medium‐strength (fluocino‐lone acetonide ointment 0.025%) steroid and their vehicles were applied to full‐thickness skin wounds placed on the backs of female Syrian hamsters. Wound healing was significantly retarded by both steroids when compared to their vehicles. Fluocinolone had a greater inhibitory effect than hydrocortisone.
The Lack of Effect of Nifedipine on Failing Skin Flaps
Authors: MILLER ANNE P. , FALCONE ROBERT E. , NAPPI JAMES , REDMON HENRY A.
Published: June 2013

The calcium channel blocker, nifedipine, was administered to 16 pigs in randomized blinded fashion in an unsuccessful attempt to salvage failing random pattern flaps. Despite the moderate dose of drug used, nifedipine caused significant hypotension that may have countered any beneficial effect on small vessel flow. Further studies are needed before nifedipine is abandoned as a potential agent for the pharmacologic manipulation of failing skin flaps.
Effects of exercise and lifestyle modification on fitness, insulin resistance, skeletal muscle oxidative phosphorylation and intramyocellular lipid content in obese children and adolescents
Authors: McCormack S. E. , McCarthy M. A. , Harrington S. G. , Farilla L. , Hrovat M. I. , Systrom D. M. , Thomas B. J. , Torriani M. , McInnis K. , Grinspoon S. K. , Fleischman A.
Published: June 2013

What is already known about this subject

Obesity‐related insulin resistance is highly prevalent in children and adolescents, and contributes to an increased lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease.

Intensive exercise training may improve insulin sensitivity.

What this study adds

Three monitored exercise training sessions per week for 8 weeks can improve fitness‐related insulin sensitivity in obese, insulin resistant children.

Insulin sensitivity and skeletal muscle oxidative phosphorylation may be dissociable in this population.

Improvements in fitness may be accompanied by a rise in intramyocellular lipid content and an associated increase in resting energy expenditure.

Background

Obesity is associated with poor fitness and adverse metabolic consequences in children.

Objective

To investigate how exercise and lifestyle modification may improve fitness and insulin sensitivity in this population.

Design and subjects

Randomized controlled trial, 21 obese (body mass index ≥ 95% percentile) subjects, ages 10 to 17 years.

Methods

Subjects were given standardized healthful lifestyle advice for 8 weeks. In addition, they were randomized to an in‐home supervised exercise intervention (n = 10) or control group (n = 11).

Measurements

Fasting laboratory studies (insulin, glucose, lipid profile) and assessments of fitness, body composition, skeletal muscle oxidative phosphorylation and intramyocellular lipid content (IMCL), were performed at baseline and study completion.

Results

Subjects were 13.0 ± 1.9 (standard deviation) years old, 72% female and 44% non‐white. Exercise improved fitness (P = 0.03) and power (P = 0.01), and increased IMCL (P = 0.02). HOMA‐IR decreased among all subjects in response to lifestyle modification advice (P = 0.01), regardless of exercise training assignment. In univariate analysis in all subjects, change in cardiovascular fitness was associated with change in HOMA‐IR. In exploratory analyses, increased IMCL was associated with greater resting energy expenditure (r = 0.78, P = 0.005) and a decrease in fasting respiratory quotient (r = −0.70, P = 0.02) (n = 11).

Conclusions

Change in fitness was found to be related to change in insulin resistance in response to lifestyle modification and exercise in obese children. IMCL increased with exercise in these obese children, which may reflect greater muscle lipid oxidative capacity.
Masked Hypertension Defined by Home Blood Pressure Monitoring Is Associated With Impaired Flow‐Mediated Vasodilatation in Patients With Cardiovascular Risk Factors
Authors: Kabutoya Tomoyuki , Hoshide Satoshi , Ogata Yukiyo , Eguchi Kazuo , Kario Kazuomi
Published: June 2013

The relationships between home blood pressure (BP), masked hypertension defined by home BP, and integrated flow‐mediated vasodilation (FMD) response remain unclear. The authors enrolled 257 patients (mean age, 63.5 years; 51% men) who had at least one cardiovascular risk factor. FMD of the brachial artery was measured with a semiautomatic edge‐detection algorithm. The integrated FMD response was calculated as the area under the dilation curve during 120 seconds after deflation (FMD‐AUC120) and the FMD magnitude as the percentage change in peak diameter (ΔFMD). Masked hypertension was defined by office BP <140/90 mm Hg and home BP ≥135 mm Hg and/or 85 mm Hg. Home systolic BP was inversely correlated with FMD‐AUC120 and ΔFMD (FMD‐AUC120: r=−.23, P<.001; ΔFMD: r=−.13, P=.041), and office systolic BP was inversely associated with FMD‐AUC120 (r=−.16, P=.011), but not with ΔFMD. After adjusting for covariates, home systolic BP (β=−.27, P=.003), but not office BP, was inversely associated with FMD‐AUC120, whereas ΔFMD was not associated with office or home systolic BP. FMD‐AUC120 was significantly lower in patients with masked hypertension compared with those with normotension (7.7±6.7 vs 11.5±8.8 mm × s, P=.048). Home systolic BP and masked hypertension defined by home BP were associated with a decrease in FMD‐AUC120.
ATF2 knockdown reinforces oxidative stress‐induced apoptosis in TE7 cancer cells
Authors: Walluscheck Diana , Poehlmann Angela , Hartig Roland , Lendeckel Uwe , Schönfeld Peter , Hotz‐Wagenblatt Agnes , Reissig Kathrin , Bajbouj Khuloud , Roessner Albert , Schneider‐Stock Regine
Published: June 2013

Cancer cells showing low apoptotic effects following oxidative stress‐induced DNA damage are mainly affected by growth arrest. Thus, recent studies focus on improving anti‐cancer therapies by increasing apoptosis sensitivity. We aimed at identifying a universal molecule as potential target to enhance oxidative stress‐based anti‐cancer therapy through a switch from cell cycle arrest to apoptosis. A cDNA microarray was performed with hydrogen peroxide‐treated oesophageal squamous epithelial cancer cells TE7. This cell line showed checkpoint activation via p21WAF1, but low apoptotic response following DNA damage. The potential target molecule was chosen depended on the following demands: it should regulate DNA damage response, cell cycle and apoptosis. As the transcription factor ATF2 is implicated in all these processes, we focused on this protein. We investigated checkpoint activation via ATF2. Indeed, ATF2 knockdown revealed ATF2‐triggered p21WAF1 protein expression, suggesting p21WAF1 transactivation through ATF2. Using chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP), we identified a hitherto unknown ATF2‐binding sequence in the p21WAF1 promoter. p‐ATF2 was found to interact with p‐c‐Jun, creating the AP‐1 complex. Moreover, ATF2 knockdown led to c‐Jun downregulation. This suggests ATF2‐driven induction of c‐Jun expression, thereby enhancing ATF2 transcriptional activity via c‐Jun‐ATF2 heterodimerization. Notably, downregulation of ATF2 caused a switch from cell cycle arrest to reinforced apoptosis, presumably via p21WAF1 downregulation, confirming the importance of ATF2 in the establishment of cell cycle arrest. 1‐Chloro‐2,4‐dinitrobenzene also led to ATF2‐dependent G2/M arrest, suggesting that this is a general feature induced by oxidative stress. As ATF2 knockdown also increased apoptosis, we propose ATF2 as a target for combined oxidative stress‐based anti‐cancer therapies.
Post‐op Sensitivity with Direct Composite Restorations
Authors: Perdigão Jorge , Swift Edward J.
Published: June 2013

Sales of self‐etch adhesive systems have grown considerably over the last 10 to 12 years. One of the most important factors contributing to this growth is the perception that self‐etch adhesives cause less postoperative sensitivity than etch‐and‐rinse adhesives. Certainly, there is much anecdotal evidence supporting this perception. But what does the science say? This Critical Appraisal presents evidence from several clinical trials of postoperative sensitivity in posterior composite restorations.
Nuclear Receptor Coactivators: Regulators of Steroid Action in Brain and Behaviour
Authors: Tetel M. J. , Acharya K. D.
Published: June 2013

Steroid hormones act in specific regions of the brain to alter behaviour and physiology. Although it has been well established that the bioavailability of the steroid and the expression of its receptor is critical for understanding steroid action in the brain, the importance of nuclear receptor coactivators in the brain is becoming more apparent. The present review focuses on the function of the p160 family of coactivators, which includes steroid receptor coactivator‐1 (SRC‐1), SRC‐2 and SRC‐3, in steroid receptor action in the brain. The expression, regulation and function of these coactivators in steroid‐dependent gene expression in both brain and behaviour are discussed.
Optimal Revascularization Strategies for Percutaneous Coronary Intervention of Distal Anastomotic Lesions after Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery
Authors: BADR SALEM , KITABATA HIRONORI , DVIR DANNY , TORGUSON REBECCA , BARBASH ISRAEL M. , LOH JOSHUA P. , PICHARD AUGUSTO D. , WAKSMAN RON
Published: June 2013

Objective

To determine the best revascularization strategy when treating distal anastomotic lesions.

Background

Distal anastomotic lesions are the most common reason for venous graft failure especially early after bypass surgery. However, the best percutaneous method for treating these lesions is still controversial.

Methods

All patients from 2/2000 to 1/2011 who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention of bypass graft distal anastomotic lesions were retrospectively enrolled. Among the 139 patients included, 26 (18.7%) were treated with plain old balloon angioplasty (POBA), 68 (48.9%) with bare metal stents (BMS), and 45 (32.4%) with drug‐eluting stents (DES).

Results

Baseline characteristics were generally comparable among the 3 groups. At 6 months' follow‐up, the highest rate of target lesion revascularization–major adverse cardiac events (TLR‐MACE) was seen in the BMS group compared to the DES and POBA groups (16.2 vs. 2.2 vs. 3.8%, respectively, P = 0.03), which was driven mainly by the highest rates of death and TLR in the BMS group (11.8 and 4.7%, respectively). At 1‐year follow‐up, a higher rate of TLR‐MACE was seen in the BMS group compared to the DES and POBA groups (20.6 vs. 11.1 vs. 7.7%, respectively, P = 0.19). After adjustment, on Cox regression analysis for hazard ratios, no significant differences were found among the 3 groups at 1‐year follow‐up of TLR‐MACE.

Conclusions

When selecting the treatment modality for saphenous vein graft distal anastomotic lesions, BMS implantation should be discouraged while POBA and DES implantation can be performed with favorable long‐term outcomes. The optimal treatment approach should be evaluated in large, randomized clinical trials.
Narcissism and Discrepancy Between Self and Friends' Perceptions of Personality
Authors: Park Sun W. , Colvin C. Randall
Published: June 2013

Most research on narcissism and person perception has used strangers as perceivers. However, research has demonstrated that strangers' ratings are influenced by narcissists' stylish appearance (Back, Schmukle, & Egloff, 2010). In the present study, we recruited participants and their close friends, individuals whose close relationship should immunize them to participants' superficial appearance cues. We investigated the relation between narcissism and personality ratings by self and friends. Participants (N = 66; 38 women; Mage = 20.83 years) completed the Narcissistic Personality Inventory (Raskin & Terry, 1988) and described their personality on the 100‐item California Adult Q‐Sort (CAQ; Block, 2008). Participants' personality was also described on the CAQ by close friends. The “optimally adjusted individual” prototype was used to summarize participant and friend personality ratings (Block, 2008). Participants with high narcissism scores were ascribed higher optimal adjustment by self than by friends. Narcissistic individuals' self‐ratings were extremely positive and more favorable than friends' ratings of them.
Molecular phylogenetic analysis suggests paraphyly and early diversification of Philadelphus (Hydrangeaceae) in western North America: New insights into affinity with Carpenteria
Authors: Guo Yue‐Long , Pais Andrew , Weakley Alan S. , Xiang Qiu‐Yun (Jenny)
Published: June 2013

Philadelphus (Hydrangeaceae) comprises 60 or fewer species distributed disjunctly in eastern Asia, eastern and western North America to Central America, and southeastern Europe and western Asia. The genus is highly valued in horticulture, but poorly understood regarding taxonomy, species relationships, and biogeographic history. The present study was the first phylogenetic and biogeographic analysis of Philadelphus using both nuclear and chloroplast DNA markers to evaluate classification schemes and to elucidate the biogeographic origin. Our results suggest that Philadelphus is a paraphyletic group with the monotypic genus Carpenteria nested within. Three major lineages were identified in the Philadelphus–Carpenteria clade, each strongly supported by the molecular data. Biogeographic analysis using the Bayes‐DIVA method (implemented in the newly developed RASP) and divergence time dating with BEAST resolved the origin and early diversification of Philadelphus s.l. (including Carpenteria) in western North America (including Mexico) in the Eocene. The lineage diversified and subsequently spread into Asia and other areas in the late Tertiary or Neogene to obtain a worldwide distribution. The study adds an additional example of an “out of western North America” migration in the phylogeographic history of the northern hemisphere.