bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ectopic Lignification in the Flax lignified bast fiber1 Mutant Stem Is Associated with Tissue-Specific Modifications in Gene Expression and Cell Wall Composition
Authors: Chantreau Maxime , Portelette Antoine , Dauwe Rebecca , Kiyoto Shingo , Crônier David , Morreel Kris , Arribat Sandrine , Neutelings Godfrey , Chabi Malika , Boerjan Wout , Yoshinaga Arata , Mesnard François , Grec Sebastien , Chabbert Brigitte , Hawkins Simon
Published: November 2014

Histochemical screening of a flax ethyl methanesulfonate population led to the identification of 93 independent M2 mutant families showing ectopic lignification in the secondary cell wall of stem bast fibers. We named this core collection the Linum usitatissimum (flax) lbf mutants for lignified bast fibers and believe that this population represents a novel biological resource for investigating how bast fiber plants regulate lignin biosynthesis. As a proof of concept, we characterized the lbf1 mutant and showed that the lignin content increased by 350% in outer stem tissues containing bast fibers but was unchanged in inner stem tissues containing xylem. Chemical and NMR analyses indicated that bast fiber ectopic lignin was highly condensed and rich in G-units. Liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry profiling showed large modifications in the oligolignol pool of lbf1 inner- and outer-stem tissues that could be related to ectopic lignification. Immunological and chemical analyses revealed that lbf1 mutants also showed changes to other cell wall polymers. Whole-genome transcriptomics suggested that ectopic lignification of flax bast fibers could be caused by increased transcript accumulation of (1) the cinnamoyl-CoA reductase, cinnamyl alcohol dehydrogenase, and caffeic acid O-methyltransferase monolignol biosynthesis genes, (2) several lignin-associated peroxidase genes, and (3) genes coding for respiratory burst oxidase homolog NADPH-oxidases necessary to increase H2O2 supply.
ULTRAPETALAtrxG Genes Interact withKANADITranscription Factor Genes to RegulateArabidopsisGynoecium Patterning
Authors: Pires Helena R. , Monfared Mona M. , Shemyakina Elena A. , Fletcher Jennifer C.
Published: November 2014

Organ formation relies upon precise patterns of gene expression that are under tight spatial and temporal regulation. Transcription patterns are specified by several cellular processes during development, including chromatin remodeling, but little is known about how chromatin-remodeling factors contribute to plant organogenesis. We demonstrate that the trithorax group (trxG) gene ULTRAPETALA1 (ULT1) and the GARP transcription factor gene KANADI1 (KAN1) organize the Arabidopsis thaliana gynoecium along two distinct polarity axes. We show that ULT1 activity is required for the kan1 adaxialized polarity defect, indicating that ULT1 and KAN1 act oppositely to regulate the adaxial-abaxial axis. Conversely, ULT1 and KAN1 together establish apical-basal polarity by promoting basal cell fate in the gynoecium, restricting the expression domain of the basic helix-loop-helix transcription factor gene SPATULA. Finally, we show that ult alleles display dose-dependent genetic interactions with kan alleles and that ULT and KAN proteins can associate physically. Our findings identify a dual role for plant trxG factors in organ patterning, with ULT1 and KAN1 acting antagonistically to pattern the adaxial-abaxial polarity axis but jointly to pattern the apical-basal axis. Our data indicate that the ULT proteins function to link chromatin-remodeling factors with DNA binding transcription factors to regulate target gene expression.
Market quality and structural changes in the trading system
Authors: Agudelo Diego A. , Gutiérrez Daza Ángelo , Múnera Montoya Nazly J.
Published: November 2014

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to study the effect of X‐Stream, the new trading platform of the Colombian Stock Exchange since February 2009, on the market quality.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test the effect of X‐Stream on market quality variables, such as liquidity (bid‐ask spread and price impact), daily and intraday volatility and trading activity, using mean tests, panel data and conditional variance models. The authors use a proprietary database of transactions and orders from the exchange.

Findings

The evidence suggests that X‐Stream improved the liquidity and trading activity and reduced the volatility of the overall market, especially of the most liquid stocks.

Practical implications

These results support the investment on more sophisticated trading systems in emerging markets.

Originality/value

Contributing to the literature on market quality, this paper provides novel evidence of the effect of reforms on market design, trading rules and operational capabilities on a small and low‐liquidity emerging stock market.
Gentrification Interrupted in Salford, UK: From New Deal to “Limbo‐Land” in a Contemporary Urban Periphery
Authors: Wallace Andrew
Published: November 2014

This paper examines two potential lacunae in understanding low‐income residents’ experiences of contemporary state‐led gentrification via a study of neighbourhood restructuring in Salford, UK, 2004–2014. The first is the localised politics preparing the ground for neighbourhood “redevelopment” and housing demolition. The second is the blighted social landscape which emerges with the subsequent stalling of this project. A focus on “before” and “after” is adopted in order to disrupt the linear policy and “effects” temporalities that much qualitative gentrification research tends to inhabit. We see how state‐led neighbourhood restructuring does not simply displace, but carries residents from “empowerment” to abandonment and transfers them from active struggle into devitalised limbo. As such, the paper demarcates challenges and opportunities for resident mobilisation inherent in a vacillating urban renewal programme, powerful in its inception but which has since “hit the buffers” (Lees 2014, Antipode 46(4):921–947) in light of global and municipal fiscal crises.
From false belief to friendship: Commentary on Fink, Begeer, Peterson, Slaughter, and de Rosnay
Authors: Lerner Matthew D. , Lillard Angeline S.
Published: November 2014

Fink, Begeer, Peterson, Slaughter, and de Rosnay (Brit. J. Dev. Psychol, 2015; 33, 1–17) represent a welcome contribution in providing empirical evidence of the link from false belief understanding at Time 1 to mutual friendship 2 years later, controlling for several other possible contributors. This opens a new and important line of inquiry into the practical significance of a Theory of Mind. As is typical of pioneering research, further study is needed to address some issues; here, we point out some of these issues and then briefly discuss the broader implications of Fink et al.'s findings.
Factors predicting survival in peripheral T‐cell lymphoma in the USA: a population‐based analysis of 8802 patients in the modern era
Authors: Petrich Adam M. , Helenowski Irene B. , Bryan Locke J. , Rozell Shaina A. , Galamaga Robert , Nabhan Chadi
Published: November 2014

Current prognostic models for peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) have multiple limitations, and questions exist regarding applicability to current patients. We utilized the Surveillance Epidemiology and End Results (SEER)‐18 database to evaluate factors affecting overall survival (OS) of PTCL in the modern era and identified 8802 patients between 2000–2010. Most subtypes of PTCL increased in incidence during the study period. In univariate analyses, age >55 years, black race, advanced stage, absence of extra‐nodal disease, omission of radiation therapy (RT) and high‐risk histology each predicted inferior OS (P < 0·0001). Multivariate analysis (MVA) demonstrated that hepatosplenic, enteropathy‐associated and extra‐nodal Natural Killer/T cell histologies, each had hazard ratios >1·5 (P ≤ 0·0001) for death. Further, age ≥55 years, black race and advanced stage maintained their significance in the MVA (P < 0·0001 each). Based on the significant factors, a prognostic model was constructed and subsequently validated in an independent cohort. The new model incorporated age, stage, histology and race, with an OS ranging from 9 months (highest risk group) to 120 months (lowest risk group). In summary, this is the largest study of PTCL patients in the modern era that provides risk stratification utilizing a new prognostic model that can be incorporated into future prospective clinical trials.
To what extent is allergen exposure a risk factor for the development of allergic disease?
Authors: Custovic A.
Published: November 2014

The role of allergen exposure in the development of allergic disease has been a matter of considerable debate, and our understanding of the importance of allergens has evolved over the last 25 years. Several observational and primary prevention studies have investigated these relationships, and different studies reported inconsistent, and sometimes opposite findings. It has to be emphasized that a clear understanding of how aeroallergen exposure occurs, and accurate and reproducible measurement of exposure are essential prerequisites for understanding the role of exposure. However, our current understanding of how we get exposed to allergens is not based on solid evidence, but on a number of assumptions, and we urgently need to develop better proxy measures (or indices) of exposure. In addition, the relative importance of the timing of exposure (e.g. early compared to exposure in later life) is unknown. It is also unclear which route of exposure is the most relevant (e.g. inhaled vs. oral vs. transcutaneous). Available data suggest that the dose–response relationship between allergen exposure and allergic disease may differ between different allergens, dose ranges and exposure patterns, and these relationships may further differ between different populations and geographical areas. It is increasingly clear that childhood asthma and atopy are not single phenotypes, and it is likely that allergen exposure has different effect on distinct subgroups under the umbrella terms of ‘sensitization’ and ‘asthma’. Susceptibility to allergen exposure, other environmental exposures and their interactions may also differ between individuals with different genetic predispositions. However, the precise nature of these complex relationships is unclear. We need a holistic approach offered by systems biology, with integration of information on the standardized and reliable measures of exposures (including allergens and other relevant exposures) with genetic and biological data to fully understand the role of allergens in the development of allergic disease.
Autoimmune thyroid disease in Colombian patients with systemic lupus erythematosus
Authors: Franco Juan‐Sebastian , Amaya‐Amaya Jenny , Molano‐González Nicolás , Caro‐Moreno Julian , Rodríguez‐Jiménez Mónica , Acosta‐Ampudia Yeny , Mantilla Rubén D. , Rojas‐Villarraga Adriana , Anaya Juan‐Manuel
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To determine the prevalence and the predictive factors of autoimmune hypothyroidism (AH) within a systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) cohort and to analyse the current information concerning the prevalence and impact of autoimmune thyroid disease (AITD) and thyroid autoimmunity in patients with SLE.

Methods

A total of 376 patients with SLE were assessed for the presence of the following: (i) confirmed AH, (ii) positive thy‐roperoxidase/thyroglobulin antibodies [TPOAb/TgAb] without hypothyroidism, (iii) nonautoimmune hypothyroidism and (iv) SLE patients with neither. Multivariate analysis and a classification and regression tree model were used to analyse data. The current information was discussed through a systematic literature review (SLR).

Results

In our cohort, the prevalence of confirmed AH was 12%. However, in euthyroid patients with SLE, TPOAb and TgAb were observed in 21% and 10%, respectively. Patients with confirmed AH were significantly older and had later age at onset of the disease. Smoking (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) 6·93, 95% CI 1·98–28·54, P = 0·004), Sjögren's Syndrome (SS) (AOR 23·2, 95% CI 1·89–359·53, P = 0·015) and positivity for anticyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) (AOR 10·35, 95% CI 1·04–121·26, P = 0·047) were associated with AH‐SLE, regardless of gender and duration of the disease. Smoking and SS were confirmed as predictors of AH‐SLE. In the SLR, the prevalence of AITD ranged from 1% to 60%. The factors associated with this polyautoimmunity were female gender, older age, smoking, certain autoantibodies, SS, and cutaneous and articular involvement.

Conclusions

AITD is frequent in SLE and does not affect the severity of SLE. Identified risk factors will assist clinicians in the search for AITD. Our results encourage smoke‐free policies in patients with SLE.
Low serum adiponectin levels are associated with reduced insulin sensitivity and lipid disturbances in short children born small for gestational age
Authors: Huang Yuefang , Li Yanhong , Chen Qiuli , Chen Hongshan , Ma Huamei , Su Zhe , Du Minlian
Published: November 2014

Background

Being born as small for gestational age (SGA) has an increased risk of developing metabolic/cardiovascular disturbances in later life. The role of adiponectin in the metabolic disturbance in SGA children remained undefined.

Objective

The aim of this study was to investigate the association between serum levels of adiponectin and insulin sensitivity as well as lipid profile in short children born SGA at prepubertal ages.

Patients and methods

Serum levels of adiponectin, fasting glucose, insulin, IGF‐I, IGFBP‐1, total cholesterol (TC), high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C), triglycerides (TG), apolipoprotein A‐I (ApoA‐I) and Apo B were measured in 30 prepubertal short children born SGA. Insulin resistance (IR) and β‐cell function were assessed using the method of homeostatic model (HOMA). Data were compared to those of 30 short appropriate for gestational age (AGA) children matched for age, gender, height and body mass index, and correlation analysis was performed.

Results

Short SGA children had significantly higher levels of fasting insulin, HOMA‐IR and HOMA‐β but lower levels of adiponectin than short AGA controls. No significant differences in the level of IGFBP‐1 and IGF‐I were found between the two groups. Serum levels of TC, TG, Apo B and Apo B/ApoA‐I ratio were significantly higher in SGA, with 33% of hypercholesteraemia and 23% of hyperglyceridaemia. Stepwise multiple regression analysis revealed that serum adiponectin level was negatively correlated with HOMA‐IR and TG and was positively correlated with birthweight SDS in SGA children.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that low serum adiponectin levels are associated with reduced insulin sensitivity and unfavourable lipid profiles in short children born SGA at prepubertal ages.
Evaluation of novel resorbable membranes for bone augmentation in a rat model
Authors: Zeng Ni , van Leeuwen Anne , Yuan Huipin , Bos Ruud R. M. , Grijpma Dirk W. , Kuijer Roel
Published: November 2014

Objectives

Our study compared two novel, biodegradable poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) barrier membranes to clinically applied barrier membranes in maintaining volume of block autologous bone grafts in a rat mandible model.

Material and methods

Two hundred and forty rats were included in this study. Block autologous bone grafts of 5 mm in diameter were harvested from the mandibular angles and transplanted onto the contralateral side. The bone grafts were either covered with a membrane or left uncovered. The applied membranes included pure PTMC membranes, biphasic calcium phosphate (BCP) incorporated PTMC composite membranes, expanded poly(tetrafluoroethylene) (e‐PTFE) membranes (Tex) and collagen membranes (Geistlich Bio‐Gide). After 2, 4 and 12 weeks, the rat mandibles were retrieved and analysed by histological evaluation and μCT quantification.

Results

The histological evaluation revealed that in time the block autologous bone graft was well integrated to the recipient bone via gradually maturing newly formed bone and did not show signs of resorption, independent of membrane coverage or types of membrane. μCT quantification showed the volume of the bone graft and recipient bone together was maintained by new bone formation and recipient bone resorption.

Conclusions

Our study showed that the use of PTMC membranes and PTMC‐BCP composite membranes resulted in similar bone remodelling to the collagen membranes and e‐PTFE membranes and that the use of barrier membranes did not interfere with bone remodelling of the bone grafts and recipient bones. However, the used barrier membranes seemed not to contribute in maintaining the volume of block autologous bone grafts.
A minimally invasive technique for lateral maxillary sinus floor elevation: a Bayesian network study
Authors: Merli Mauro , Moscatelli Marco , Mariotti Giorgia , Pagliaro Umberto , Bernardelli Francesco , Nieri Michele
Published: November 2014

Objectives

To describe a minimally invasive technique for lateral maxillary sinus elevation and to identify the relationship between the involved factors.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective study on patients treated with an original minimally invasive technique for lateral maxillary sinus elevation in a private dental clinic from 2008 to 2013. Failures, complications, and radiographic measurements were registered 9 months after surgery at the provisional prosthesis delivery. The relationship between demographic and clinical factors was investigated using Bayesian network analyses.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐four patients (147 maxillary sinuses) were treated, and 242 implants were placed. Seven patients dropped out. A total of two implants in two patients failed. Perforation of the sinus membrane occurred in seven patients (6%). Five different complications in five patients were observed. Mean peri‐implant marginal bone level 9 months after surgery was 1.10 ± 0.74 mm. Mean vertical bone gain was 7.44 ± 1.95 mm. Perforation was more frequently observed in patients that did not undergo the sedation procedure. Complications (excluding perforation and including implant failure) were more frequent in cases where only bone substitutes were used.

Conclusions

This technique can be considered noninvasive, with a low early failure and early complication rate.
Gender effect on the scapular 3D posture and kinematic in healthy subjects
Authors: Schwartz C. , Croisier J. L. , Rigaux E. , Brüls O. , Denoël V. , Forthomme B.
Published: November 2014

Populations considered for shoulder analysis are often composed of various ratios of men and women. It is consequently hypothesized that gender has no significant effect on the joint kinematic. However, the literature reports, for the shoulder, differences in the range of motion between genders. The specific influence of gender on the scapulo‐thoracic kinematics has not been studied yet. The dominant shoulder of two populations of men and women composed of 11 subjects each were evaluated in three dimensions for three distinct motions: flexion in the sagittal plane, abduction in the frontal plane and gleno‐humeral internal/external rotation with the arm abducted at 90°. Posture, kinematics and range of motion were studied separately. For flexion and abduction and with regard to the scapular kinematic, external rotation was significantly larger for women than men. The differences were of at least 5° at 120° of humeral elevation. Upward rotations were identical. Women also showed larger average active humero‐thoracic range of motion. The mean differences were of 13°, 7°, 12° and 5° for abduction, flexion, internal rotation and external rotation, respectively. No difference was observed between the scapular resting positions of both populations. The observed differences concerning both the scapular and humeral patterns would indicate that the shoulder behaviour of men and women should not be expected to be similar.
Outcomes after combined liver–kidney transplant vs. kidney transplant followed by liver transplant
Authors: Chan Edie Y. , Bhattacharya Renuka , Eswaran Sheila , Hertl Martin , Shah Nikunj , Fayek Sameh , Cohen Eric B. , Hollinger Edward F. , Olaitan Oyedolamu , Jensik Stephen C. , Perkins James D.
Published: November 2014

Introduction

The decision for isolated kidney transplant (KT) vs. combined liver–kidney transplant (CLKT) in patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) with compensated cirrhosis remains controversial. We sought to determine outcomes of patients requiring listing for a liver transplant (LT) following either a cadaveric or living donor KT and compare these outcomes to similar patients receiving a CLKT.

Methods

Our dataset included the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS)/Standard Transplant and Analysis and Research (STAR) kidney files from 1987 to 2012 after being joined with the liver files from 2002 to 2012. Outcomes of patients who received a CLKT with an international normalized ratio (INR) ≤1 and total bilirubin ≤1 were compared to patients who received a primary KT and subsequently required listing for LT between zero and five yr or after five yr.

Results

For the three groups, 244 patients had a CLKT, 216 were wait‐listed for LT between zero and five yr after KT (0–5 WL), and 320 were wait‐listed five yr after KT (+5 WL). From the time of KT, the 0–5 WL group had significantly worse survival than the CLKT group and the +5 WL group. The +5 WL had the best survival of all groups. For the 0–5 WL group, 45% underwent LT and 40% died while waiting compared to the +5 WL group with 53% having LT and 26% died while waiting. At the time of LT, the 0–5 WL group had a higher model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) score, higher incidence of being in the ICU at the time of transplant, and higher incidence of requiring life support. From the time of LT, the CLKT trended toward better survival (p = 0.0549) than both the 0–5 WL and +5 WL groups, which had equivalent survival.

Conclusion

The 0–5 WL group is a higher risk group with poorer survival due to a higher incidence of dying on the waitlist. Better identification of patients with a high risk for hepatic decompensation following KT and agreement for regional exception for LT in the event of decompensation may improve utilization of organs and better survival for those patients.
Impact of human albumin infusion on organ function in orthotopic liver transplantation – a retrospective matched‐pair analysis
Authors: Ertmer Christian , Kampmeier Tim‐Gerald , Volkert Thomas , Wolters Heiner , Rehberg Sebastian , Morelli Andrea , Schmidt Hartmut , Lange Matthias , Boschin Matthias , Van Aken Hugo , Hahnenkamp Klaus
Published: November 2014

Background

The purpose of this study was to retrospectively analyze the impact of human albumin (HA) substitution on organ function in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT).

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed chart data of 15 hypoalbuminemic patients who received continuous infusion of HA (100 g/d) for seven d following OLT and matched them with 15 control patients for severity scores at admission. Primary endpoint was a difference in mean “sequential organ failure assessment” (SOFA) score during 14 d following OLT. Secondary endpoints included SOFA subscores, length of intensive care unit (ICU) stay, ICU mortality, one‐yr mortality, fluid balance, colloid osmotic pressure (COP), serum albumin, and total protein concentrations.

Results

Substitution of HA was associated with a lower mean SOFA score as compared to control (11.0 ± 3.6 vs. 13.4 ± 3.7; p < 0.001). Patients treated with HA also exhibited lower cardiovascular SOFA subscore and higher COP, serum albumin, and total protein concentrations. There were no significant differences in fluid balance, length of ICU stay, ICU mortality, or one‐yr mortality.

Conclusions

The present data suggest that continuous infusion of HA may preserve cumulative organ function (as measured by SOFA score) with emphasis on cardiovascular function in patients following OLT.
Long‐term impact of human leukocyte antigen mismatches combined with expanded criteria donor on allograft outcomes in deceased donor kidney transplantation
Authors: Shin Sung , Kim Young Hoon , Choi Byung Hyun , Choi Ji Yoon , Jung Joo Hee , Cho Han Kyung , Han Duck Jong
Published: November 2014

The long‐term impact of human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatches combined with expanded criteria donors (ECD) on clinical outcomes has not been fully evaluated in recipients of deceased donor (DD) kidney transplantations. Of 595 DD renal transplant recipients in our center between 1991 and 2011, 210 recipients (36%) had 0–3 HLA mismatches/standard criteria donor (SCD), 353 (59%) had 4–6 HLA mismatches/SCD or 0–3 HLA mismatches/ECD, and 32 (5%) had 4–6 HLA mismatches/ECD. The mortality rate was significantly highest in the patients with 4–6 HLA mismatches/ECD (p = 0.040). The most common cause of death in this group was infection (50%). There were no significant differences in overall graft survival and death‐censored graft survival. The biopsy‐proven acute rejection rate was significantly higher in the 4–6 HLA mismatches/ECD group (p = 0.011). Cox‐regression multivariate analyses showed that 4–6 HLA mismatches plus ECD (adjusted hazard ratio [AHR], 3.2; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.17–10.56) and diabetes (AHR, 4.3; 95% CI, 1.50–12.28) were significant predictors of recipient mortality. In conclusion, ≥4 HLA mismatches plus ECD were associated with significantly higher rates of biopsy‐proven acute rejection and mortality compared with other groups undergoing DD kidney transplantation.
Low gravity rotational culture and the integration of immunomodulatory stem cells reduce human islet allo‐reactivity
Authors: Qureshi Khalid M. , Lee Jou , Paget Michelle B. , Bailey Clifford J. , Curnow S. John , Murray Hilary E. , Downing Richard
Published: November 2014

Modification of human islets prior to transplantation may improve long‐term clinical outcome in terms of diabetes management, by supporting graft function and reducing the potential for allo‐rejection. Intragraft incorporation of stem cells secreting beta (β)‐cell trophic and immunomodulatory factors represents a credible approach, but requires suitable culture methods to facilitate islet alteration without compromising integrity. This study employed a three‐dimensional rotational cell culture system (RCCS) to achieve modification, preserve function, and ultimately influence immune cell responsiveness to human islets. Islets underwent intentional dispersal and rotational culture‐assisted aggregation with amniotic epithelial cells (AEC) exhibiting intrinsic immunomodulatory potential. Reassembled islet constructs were assessed for functional integrity, and their ability to induce an allo‐response in discrete T‐cell subsets determined using mixed islet:lymphocyte reaction assays. RCCS supported the formation of islet:AEC aggregates with improved insulin secretory capacity compared to unmodified islets. Further, the allo‐response of peripheral blood mononuclear cell (PBMC) and purified CD4+ and CD8+ T‐cell subsets to AEC‐bearing grafts was significantly (p < 0.05) attenuated. Rotational culture enables pre‐transplant islet modification involving their integration with immunomodulatory stem cells capable of subduing the allo‐reactivity of T cells relevant to islet rejection. The approach may play a role in achieving acute and long‐term graft survival in islet transplantation.
Ectopic folliculosebaceous units at the coronal sulcus
Authors: Fernandez‐Flores Angel
Published: November 2014

Tyson glands were described in the 17th century as modified sebaceous glands of the coronal sulcus of the penis. However, this description and other early texts supporting the existence of Tyson glands were not accompanied by illustrations. The existence of such glands has been passing through the literature without adequate graphical demonstration, which has contributed to controversial debates. Herein we present a case of a partial penectomy performed on a 65‐year‐old man with a squamous cell carcinoma of the penis. In this case we identified sebaceous glands as well as folliculosebaceous units in the coronal sulcus. We also comparatively examined 12 cases of partial penectomy to search for sebaceous glands or folliculosebaceous units in the coronal sulcus or the preputium. We found neither sebaceous glands nor folliculosebaceous units at the coronal sulcus or the mucosal aspect of the prepuce. We conclude that: (1) folliculosebaceous units are possible in the coronal sulcus, as the current case illustrates for the first time in literature and (2) the current case is an oddity, probably induced by the accompanying squamous cell carcinoma, and therefore it may represent an ectopic folliculosebaceous unit rather than an anatomic variation.
Cerebral oxygenation is associated with neurodevelopmental outcome of preterm children at age 2 to 3 years
Authors: Verhagen Elise A , Van Braeckel Koenraad N J A , van der Veere Christa N , Groen Henk , Dijk Peter H , Hulzebos Christian V , Bos Arend F
Published: November 2014

Aim

The aim of the study was to determine whether regional cerebral tissue oxygen saturation (rcSO2) and fractional tissue oxygen extraction (FTOE), using near‐infrared spectroscopy, are associated with neurodevelopmental outcome of preterm infants.

Method

We measured rcSO2 on days 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, and 15 after birth in 83 preterm infants (<32wks gestational age), and calculated FTOE=(SpO2–rcSO2)/SpO2. Cognitive, motor, neurological, and behavioural outcomes were determined at 2 to 3 years using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development, Third Edition (BSID‐III), an age‐specific neurological examination, and the Child Behavior Checklist (CBCL) respectively. Multiple linear regression analyses were used to determine whether rcSO2 and FTOE contributed to outcome.

Results

We followed up 67 infants. The lower quartile (P25–50) and highest quartile (P75–100) of rcSO2 on day 1 were associated with poorer cognitive outcome (p=0.044 and p=0.008 respectively). A lower area under the curve (AUC; over 15d) of rcSO2 was associated with poorer cognitive outcome (p=0.014). The lower quartile (P25–50) AUC of rcSO2 was associated with poorer fine motor outcome (p=0.004). The amount of time rcSO2 <50% on day 1 was negatively associated with gross motor outcome (p=0.002). The highest quartile of FTOE on day 1 was associated with poorer total motor outcome (p=0.041).

Interpretation

Cerebral oxygen saturation during the first 2 weeks after birth is associated with neurodevelopmental outcome of preterm infants at 2 to 3 years. High and low rcSO2 on day 1 were associated with poorer neurodevelopmental outcome.
Prevalence and complications of trauma to the primary dentition in a subpopulation of Spanish children in southern Europe
Authors: Mendoza‐Mendoza Asuncion , Iglesias‐Linares Alejandro , Yañez‐Vico Rosa Mª , Abalos‐Labruzzi Camilo
Published: November 2014

Background

During the first years of life, when children begin to walk and socialize, they are particularly vulnerable to traumatic injuries to the primary teeth; indeed, after dental caries, such injuries are the second most frequent cause of pediatric dental consultation. Nonetheless, the reported prevalence of trauma to the primary teeth varies depending on the literature source, type of injury, the patient's age, and the most common associated complications.

Aim

To analyze new epidemiological data and complications associated with traumatic injuries to the primary teeth of Spanish children.

Material and methods

A retrospective study was carried out in a subpopulation of 879 Spanish children in southern Europe aged between one and 7 years old, with primary and early mixed dentition. Clinical and radiological records were obtained from all pediatric patients who presented trauma to the primary teeth, with a follow‐up period of 3–5 years.

Results

A total of 21.72% of children examined had some kind of dental trauma and the most common age range for injuries to the primary teeth was 1–3 years old. The most common injuries in deciduous teeth were subluxation (47.29% of injuries affected the periodontal ligament), intrusion (23.15%), and avulsion (13.63%). On the other hand, comparatively more complications were recorded as a result of intrusion (32 of 47 intruded teeth).

Conclusions

In this Spanish subpopulation, a pediatric dental consultation as a result of traumatic dental injuries in primary dentition is most frequent in 1‐ and 2‐year‐olds, and subluxation is the commonest injury in the primary dentition. In turn, intrusion is associated with an increased frequency of complications in both the deciduous and the permanent teeth.
Resistance to leakage of various thicknesses of apical plugs of Bioaggregate using liquid filtration model
Authors: Memiş Özgül Betül , Bezgin Tuğba , Şahin Cem , Sarı Şaziye
Published: November 2014

Aim

The aim of this study was to compare the resistance to leakage of different thicknesses of Bioaggregate (BA) and 4‐mm‐thick white mineral trioxide aggregate (WMTA) in an apexification model using liquid filtration.

Methods

32 extracted mandibular premolar teeth were sectioned at the cemento‐enamel junction and 3–4 mm from the tooth apex to obtain 12‐mm‐long root segments. The apical and coronal thirds were prepared with size two through six Gates Glidden burs. The teeth were divided into four groups according to material and thickness, as follows: Group 1: 2‐mm BA; Group 2: 4‐mm BA; Group 3: 12‐mm (total length) BA; Group 4: 4‐mm WMTA (control). The empty parts of the roots in Groups 1, 2, and 4 were filled with gutta‐percha and root canal sealer, and leakage was measured using fluid filtration. The data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis H‐test.

Results

No statistical differences in microleakage were observed between Groups 1, 2, and 4 (P > 0.05). Group 3 (roots filled completely with BA) showed significantly less leakage than the other groups tested (P < 0.01).

Conclusions

The findings of this study showed that 12 mm of BA exhibited the best resistance to leakage. At the same time, 2–4 mm of BA showed similar results when compared to 4‐mm MTA. In light of these results, this study suggests that BA may be a good candidate for further clinical studies when used as an apical barrier for apexification.
Combined antithrombotic therapy of potential value in acute atrial fibrillation related stroke
Authors: Kelley R. E.
Published: November 2014

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Constitutive STAT3 activation in epidermal keratinocytes enhances cell clonogenicity and favours spontaneous immortalization by opposing differentiation and senescence checkpoints
Authors: Orecchia Valeria , Regis Gabriella , Tassone Beatrice , Valenti Chiara , Avalle Lidia , Saoncella Stefania , Calautti Enzo , Poli Valeria
Published: November 2014

STAT3, a pleiotropic transcription factor acting downstream of cytokines and growth factors, is known to enhance proliferation, migration, invasion and aerobic glycolysis in tumors upon aberrant activation. In the murine epidermis, STAT3 is necessary for experimentally induced carcinogenesis. Skin tumorigenesis is conversely enhanced by overexpression in keratinocytes of the constitutively active STAT3C mutant, which also induces robust, psoriasis‐like epidermal hyperplasia. We show here that STAT3C expression at physiological levels in knock‐in mice leads to mild epidermal hyperplasia and attenuated expression of terminal differentiation markers. Altered differentiation is confirmed in isolated primary epidermal keratinocytes in vitro, correlating with enhanced proliferative and clonogenic potential, attenuated senescence and, strikingly, high‐frequency spontaneous immortalization. These results suggest that moderate levels of continuous STAT3 activation, which closely resemble those triggered by chronic inflammation or persistent growth factor stimulation, may establish a preneoplastic state in part by promoting the escape of epidermal progenitor cells from differentiation and senescence checkpoints.
Ginsenoside F1 attenuates hyperpigmentation in B16F10 melanoma cells by inducing dendrite retraction and activating Rho signalling
Authors: Kim Ji Hye , Baek Eun Ji , Lee Eun Ju , Yeom Myung Hun , Park Jun Seong , Lee Ki Won , Kang Nam Joo
Published: November 2014

Ginsenoside F1 (GF1) is a metabolite produced by hydrolysis of the ginsenoside Re and Rg1 in Panax ginseng. According to various studies, high amounts of ginseng components are absorbed in the metabolized form, which are key constituents responsible for the biological effects of P. ginseng. Recently, GF1 was reported to have beneficial effects on skin. However, there has not been a sound understanding of its antimelanogenic effect and underlying molecular mechanisms. In this study, GF1 reduced α‐melanocyte‐stimulating hormone‐induced melanin secretion in B16F10 cell culture media by 60%. However, it did not suppress intracellular melanin levels, tyrosinase activity and expression. Immunofluorescence assay showed that GF1 had no effect on melanosome transport, but significantly induced dendrite retraction. Pull‐down assay demonstrated that GF1 primarily modulates the Rho family GTPases resulting in dendrite retraction. Collectively, these data suggest that GF1 could act as a potent skin‐whitening agent.
Repeated administration of IL‐31 upregulates IL‐31 receptor A (IL‐31RA) in dorsal root ganglia and causes severe itch‐associated scratching behaviour in mice
Authors: Arai Iwao , Tsuji Minoru , Miyagawa Kazuya , Takeda Hiroshi , Akiyama Nobutake , Saito Saburo
Published: November 2014

We investigated the effects of repeated administration of interleukin‐31 (IL‐31) on itch‐associated scratching counts (long‐lasting scratching, LLS) and IL‐31‐related receptor mRNA expression in mice. Intra‐dermal (i.d.) injection of IL‐31 (100 and 300 ng/site) every 12 h for 3 days significantly increased LLS. Repeated administration of IL‐31 also increased the expression of IL‐31 receptor A (IL‐31RA) and oncostatin M receptor beta (OSMRβ) in dorsal root ganglia (DRG). After the repeated administration of IL‐31 was discontinued, IL‐31RA expression decreased and reached the baseline level 2 days after the last dose of IL‐31. LLS changed along with DRG IL‐31RA expression. Moreover, IL‐31‐induced IL‐31RA protein expression was confirmed by Western blotting analysis. These data suggest that IL‐31 upregulates IL‐31RA expression in DRG neuron cell bodies, and cutaneous‐injected IL‐31‐induced itching is enhanced by DRG IL‐31RA expression in mice.
Licochalcone A activates Nrf2 in vitro and contributes to licorice extract‐induced lowered cutaneous oxidative stress in vivo
Authors: Kühnl Jochen , Roggenkamp Dennis , Gehrke Sandra A. , Stäb Franz , Wenck Horst , Kolbe Ludger , Neufang Gitta
Published: November 2014

The retrochalcone licochalcone A (LicA) has previously been shown to possess antimicrobial and anti‐inflammatory properties. In this study, we focused on pathways responsible for the antioxidative properties of LicA. In vitro, LicA protected from oxidative stress mediated by reactive oxygen species (ROS) by activating the expression of cytoprotective phase II enzymes. LicA induced nuclear translocation of NF‐E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2) in primary human fibroblasts and elevated the expression of the cytoprotective and anti‐inflammatory enzymes heme oxygenase 1 and glutamate–cysteine ligase modifier subunit. LicA‐treated cells displayed a higher ratio of reduced to oxidized glutathione and decreased concentrations of ROS in UVA‐irradiated human dermal fibroblasts, as well as in activated neutrophils. In vivo, ultraweak photon emission analysis of skin treated with LicA‐rich licorice extract revealed a significantly lowered UVA‐induced luminescence, indicative for a decrease in oxidative processes. We conclude from these data that topical application of licorice extract is a promising approach to induce Nrf2‐dependent cytoprotection in human skin.
Hair follicle targeting, penetration enhancement and Langerhans cell activation make cyanoacrylate skin surface stripping a promising delivery technique for transcutaneous immunization with large molecules and particle‐based vaccines
Authors: Vogt Annika , Hadam Sabrina , Deckert Iliane , Schmidt Julia , Stroux Andrea , Afraz Zahra , Rancan Fiorenza , Lademann Jürgen , Combadiere Behazine , Blume‐Peytavi Ulrike
Published: November 2014

Transcutaneous immunization (TCI) requires targeting of a maximum number of skin antigen‐presenting cells as non‐invasive as possible on small skin areas. In two clinical trials, we introduced cyanoacrylate skin surface stripping (CSSS) as a safe method for TCI. Here, using ex vivo human skin, we demonstrate that one CSSS procedure removed only 30% of stratum corneum, but significantly increased the penetration of 200 nm polystyrene particles deep into vellus and intermediate hair follicles from where they could not been retrieved by conventional tape stripping. Two subsequent CSSS had no striking additional effect. CSSS increased particle penetration in superficial stratum corneum and induced Langerhans cell activation. Formulation in amphiphilic ointment or massage did not substantially influences the interfollicular penetration profiles. Hair follicle (HF) targeting by CSSS could become a highly effective tool for TCI when combined with carrier‐based delivery and is gaining new attention as our understanding on the HF immune system increases.
Unraveling the interactive effects of climate change and oil contamination on laboratory‐simulated estuarine benthic communities
Authors: Coelho Francisco J. R. C. , Cleary Daniel F. R. , Rocha Rui J. M. , Calado Ricardo , Castanheira José M. , Rocha Sílvia M. , Silva Artur M. S. , Simões Mário M. Q. , Oliveira Vanessa , Lillebø Ana I. , Almeida Adelaide , Cunha Ângela , Lopes Isabel , Ribeiro Rui , Moreira‐Santos Matilde , Marques Catarina R. , Costa Rodrigo , Pereira Ruth , Gomes Newton C. M.
Published: November 2014

There is growing concern that modifications to the global environment such as ocean acidification and increased ultraviolet radiation may interact with anthropogenic pollutants to adversely affect the future marine environment. Despite this, little is known about the nature of the potential risks posed by such interactions. Here, we performed a multifactorial microcosm experiment to assess the impact of ocean acidification, ultraviolet B (UV‐B) radiation and oil hydrocarbon contamination on sediment chemistry, the microbial community (composition and function) and biochemical marker response of selected indicator species. We found that increased ocean acidification and oil contamination in the absence of UV‐B will significantly alter bacterial composition by, among other things, greatly reducing the relative abundance of Desulfobacterales, known to be important oil hydrocarbon degraders. Along with changes in bacterial composition, we identified concomitant shifts in the composition of oil hydrocarbons in the sediment and an increase in oxidative stress effects on our indicator species. Interestingly, our study identifies UV‐B as a critical component in the interaction between these factors, as its presence alleviates harmful effects caused by the combination of reduced pH and oil pollution. The model system used here shows that the interactive effect of reduced pH and oil contamination can adversely affect the structure and functioning of sediment benthic communities, with the potential to exacerbate the toxicity of oil hydrocarbons in marine ecosystems.
Changes in isotopic signatures of soil carbon and CO2 respiration immediately and one year after Miscanthus removal
Authors: Drewer Julia , Dufossé Karine , Skiba Ute M. , Gabrielle Benoît
Published: November 2014

The removal of perennial bioenergy crops, such as Miscanthus, has rarely been studied although it is an important form of land use change. Miscanthus is a C4 plant, and the carbon (C) it deposits during its growth has a different isotopic signature (12/13C) compared to a C3 plant. Identifying the proportion of C stored and released to the atmosphere is important information for ecosystem models and life cycle analyses. During a removal experiment in June 2011 of a 20‐year old Miscanthus field (Grignon, France), vegetation was removed mechanically and chemically. Two replicate plots were converted into a rotation of annual crops, two plots had Miscanthus removed with no soil disturbance, followed by bare soil (set‐aside), one control plot was left with continued Miscanthus cultivation, and an adjacent field was used as annual arable crops control. There was a significant difference in the isotopic composition of the total soil C under Miscanthus compared with adjacent annual arable crops in all three measured soil layers (0–5, 5–10 and 10–20 cm). Before Miscanthus removal, total C in the soil under Miscanthus ranged from 4.9% in the top layer to 3.9% in the lower layers with δ13C values of −16.3 to −17.8 while soil C under the adjacent arable crop was significantly lower and ranged from 1.6 to 2% with δ13C values of −23.2. This did not change much in 2012, suggesting the accumulation of soil C under Miscanthus persists for at least the first year. In contrast, the isotopic signals of soil respiration 1 year after Miscanthus removal from recultivated and set‐aside plots were similar to that of the annual arable control, while just after removal the signals were similar to that of the Miscanthus control. This suggests a rapid change in the form of soil C pools that are respired.
Fluid environment for preservation of pore spaces in a deep dolomite reservoir
Authors: Zhu D. , Meng Q. , Jin Z. , Hu W.
Published: November 2014

Well TS1 reveals many uncemented pores and vugs at depths of more than 8000 m in a deep Cambrian dolomite reservoir in the Tarim Basin, northwestern China. The fluid environment and mechanism required for the preservation of reservoir spaces have yet not been well constrained. Carbon, oxygen, and strontium isotope compositions and fluid inclusion data suggest two types of fluids, meteoric water and hydrothermal fluid, affecting the Lower Paleozoic carbonate reservoirs in the Tarim Basin. Based on simulation using a thermodynamic model for H2O‐CO2‐NaCl‐CaCO3 system, meteoric water has the ability to continuously dissolve carbonate minerals during downward migration from the surface to deep strata until it reaches a transition depth, below which it will begin to precipitate carbonate minerals to fill preexisting pore spaces. In contrast, hydrothermal fluid has the ability to dissolve carbonate in deep strata and precipitate carbonate in shallow strata during upward migration. Based on the dissolution–precipitation characteristics of the two types of fluids, the ideal fluid environment for the preservation of preexisting reservoir spaces occurs when carbonate reservoir is neither in the CaCO3 precipitation domain of meteoric water nor in the CaCO3 precipitation domain of hydrothermal fluid. Taking the Lower Paleozoic carbonate reservoirs in the north uplift area as an example, the spaces in the deep Cambrian dolomite reservoir near well TS1 were seldom filled because thick Ordovician deposits blocked meteoric water from migrating downward into the Cambrian dolomite reservoir and because the Cambrian dolomite reservoir has been in the domain of hydrothermal dissolution since the Permian. The deep carbonate layers in basins elsewhere with a similar fluid environment may have high uncemented porosity and consequently have good hydrocarbon exploration potential.