bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Autocrine VEGF–VEGFR2–Neuropilin-1 signaling promotes glioma stem-like cell viability and tumor growth
Authors: Hamerlik Petra , Lathia Justin D. , Rasmussen Rikke , Wu Qiulian , Bartkova Jirina , Lee MyungHee , Moudry Pavel , Bartek Jiri , Fischer Walter , Lukas Jiri , Rich Jeremy N. , Bartek Jiri
Published: March 2012

Although vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor 2 (VEGFR2) is traditionally regarded as an endothelial cell protein, evidence suggests that VEGFRs may be expressed by cancer cells. Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is a lethal cancer characterized by florid vascularization and aberrantly elevated VEGF. Antiangiogenic therapy with the humanized VEGF antibody bevacizumab reduces GBM tumor growth; however, the clinical benefits are transient and invariably followed by tumor recurrence. In this study, we show that VEGFR2 is preferentially expressed on the cell surface of the CD133+ human glioma stem-like cells (GSCs), whose viability, self-renewal, and tumorigenicity rely, at least in part, on signaling through the VEGF-VEGFR2–Neuropilin-1 (NRP1) axis. We find that the limited impact of bevacizumab-mediated VEGF blockage may reflect ongoing autocrine signaling through VEGF–VEGFR2–NRP1, which is associated with VEGFR2–NRP1 recycling and a pool of active VEGFR2 within a cytosolic compartment of a subset of human GBM cells. Whereas bevacizumab failed to inhibit prosurvival effects of VEGFR2-mediated signaling, GSC viability under unperturbed or radiation-evoked stress conditions was attenuated by direct inhibition of VEGFR2 tyrosine kinase activity and/or shRNA-mediated knockdown of VEGFR2 or NRP1. We propose that direct inhibition of VEGFR2 kinase may block the highly dynamic VEGF–VEGFR2–NRP1 pathway and inspire a GBM treatment strategy to complement the currently prevalent ligand neutralization approach.
Vertically aligned ZnO nanorods via self-assembled spray pyrolyzed nanoparticles for dye-sensitized solar cells
Authors: Dwivedi Charu , Dutta V
Published: March 2012

Well-aligned zinc oxide (ZnO) nanorods are fabricated on indium-tin-oxide (ITO) coated glass substrates via self-assembly of ZnO nanoparticles created using continuous spray pyrolysis (CoSP) technique. The method involves pre-treatment by dip-coating the substrate with a solution comprising of zinc salt for creating a seed layer, and then spray-pyrolyzed ZnO nanoparticles self-assemble on the pre-treated substrate. The effect of the substrate pre-treatment and the deposition time (tdep) of nanoparticles is investigated. The results show that the substrate pre-treatment influences the growth of ZnO nanorods which are absent without the pre-treatment. Nanoparticle collection and nanorod growth on different substrates are done simultaneously. The thin films of as-grown nanorods are used as photoelectrode materials to fabricate dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSCs) and the effect of nanorods grown for different times has been studied. The best performance with this cell structure is found for the layer withtdep=15 min, which showed a conversion efficiency of 1.77% for the cell area of 0.25 cm2.
Counter-examples of high Clifford index to Prym-Torelli
Authors: Izadi E. , Lange H.
Published: March 2012

We give examples of curves of arbitrarily high Clifford index such that the Prym map is not injective at any of their étale double covers.
CentiLib: comprehensive analysis and exploration of network centralities
Authors: Gräßler Johannes , Koschützki Dirk , Schreiber Falk
Published: March 2012

Summary: CentiLib is a library and plug-in for the comprehensive analysis and exploration of network centralities. It provides 17 different node centrality and four graph centrality measures in a user-friendly interface and supports the exploration of analysis results within the networks. Its architecture allows for easy adaption to Java-based network analysis, simulation and visualization tools, which is demonstrated by providing the plug-in for two popular network analysis tools—Cytoscape and Vanted. With the ability to quantitatively analyze biological networks in an interactive and visual manner, CentiLib supports a better understanding of complex biological networks and processes.

Availability and implementation: Software with manual and tutorials is freely available at http://centilib.ipk-gatersleben.de/

Contact:  schreibe@ipk-gatersleben.de
ATRX-mediated chromatin association of histone variant macroH2A1 regulates α-globin expression
Authors: Ratnakumar Kajan , Duarte Luis F. , LeRoy Gary , Hasson Dan , Smeets Daniel , Vardabasso Chiara , Bönisch Clemens , Zeng Tianying , Xiang Bin , Zhang David Y. , Li Haitao , Wang Xiaowo , Hake Sandra B. , Schermelleh Lothar , Garcia Benjamin A. , Bernstein Emily
Published: March 2012

The histone variant macroH2A generally associates with transcriptionally inert chromatin; however, the factors that regulate its chromatin incorporation remain elusive. Here, we identify the SWI/SNF helicase ATRX (α-thalassemia/MR, X-linked) as a novel macroH2A-interacting protein. Unlike its role in assisting H3.3 chromatin deposition, ATRX acts as a negative regulator of macroH2A's chromatin association. In human erythroleukemic cells deficient for ATRX, macroH2A accumulates at the HBA gene cluster on the subtelomere of chromosome 16, coinciding with the loss of α-globin expression. Collectively, our results implicate deregulation of macroH2A's distribution as a contributing factor to the α-thalassemia phenotype of ATRX syndrome.
O-GlcNAcylation of a circadian clock protein: dPER taking its sweet time: Figure 1.
Authors: Diernfellner Axel C.R. , Brunner Michael
Published: March 2012

In this issue of Genes & Development, Kim and colleagues (pp. 490–502) report that the Drosophila circadian repressor dPER undergoes O-linked GlcNAcylation (O-GlcNAc). Their data show that manipulation of the relevant O-GlcNAc transferase (OGT) regulates behavioral rhythmicity by affecting the stability and nuclear translocation of dPER.
A DNA hypermethylation module for the stem/progenitor cell signature of cancer
Authors: Easwaran Hariharan , Johnstone Sarah E. , Van Neste Leander , Ohm Joyce , Mosbruger Tim , Wang Qiuju , Aryee Martin J. , Joyce Patrick , Ahuja Nita , Weisenberger Dan , Collisson Eric , Zhu Jingchun , Yegnasubramanian Srinivasan , Matsui William , Baylin Stephen B.
Published: March 2012

Many DNA-hypermethylated cancer genes are occupied by the Polycomb (PcG) repressor complex in embryonic stem cells (ESCs). Their prevalence in the full spectrum of cancers, the exact context of chromatin involved, and their status in adult cell renewal systems are unknown. Using a genome-wide analysis, we demonstrate that ∼75% of hypermethylated genes are marked by PcG in the context of bivalent chromatin in both ESCs and adult stem/progenitor cells. A large number of these genes are key developmental regulators, and a subset, which we call the “DNA hypermethylation module,” comprises a portion of the PcG target genes that are down-regulated in cancer. Genes with bivalent chromatin have a low, poised gene transcription state that has been shown to maintain stemness and self-renewal in normal stem cells. However, when DNA-hypermethylated in tumors, we find that these genes are further repressed. We also show that the methylation status of these genes can cluster important subtypes of colon and breast cancers. By evaluating the subsets of genes that are methylated in different cancers with consideration of their chromatin status in ESCs, we provide evidence that DNA hypermethylation preferentially targets the subset of PcG genes that are developmental regulators, and this may contribute to the stem-like state of cancer. Additionally, the capacity for global methylation profiling to cluster tumors by phenotype may have important implications for further refining tumor behavior patterns that may ultimately aid therapeutic interventions.
Cooperative Function of PLDδ and PLDα1 in Abscisic Acid-Induced Stomatal Closure in Arabidopsis
Authors: Uraji Misugi , Katagiri Takeshi , Okuma Eiji , Ye Wenxiu , Hossain Mohammad Anowar , Masuda Choji , Miura Aya , Nakamura Yoshimasa , Mori Izumi C. , Shinozaki Kazuo , Murata Yoshiyuki
Published: March 2012

Phospholipase D (PLD) is involved in responses to abiotic stress and abscisic acid (ABA) signaling. To investigate the roles of two Arabidopsis (Arabidopsis thaliana) PLDs, PLDα1 and PLDδ, in ABA signaling in guard cells, we analyzed ABA responses in guard cells using Arabidopsis wild type, pldα1 and pldδ single mutants, and a pldα1 pldδ double mutant. ABA-induced stomatal closure was suppressed in the pldα1 pldδ double mutant but not in the pld single mutants. The pldα1 and pldδ mutations reduced ABA-induced phosphatidic acid production in epidermal tissues. Expression of either PLDα1 or PLDδ complemented the double mutant stomatal phenotype. ABA-induced stomatal closure in both pldα1 and pldδ single mutants was inhibited by a PLD inhibitor (1-butanol ), suggesting that both PLDα1 and PLDδ function in ABA-induced stomatal closure. During ABA-induced stomatal closure, wild-type guard cells accumulate reactive oxygen species and nitric oxide and undergo cytosolic alkalization, but these changes are reduced in guard cells of the pldα1 pldδ double mutant. Inward-rectifying K+ channel currents of guard cells were inhibited by ABA in the wild type but not in the pldα1 pldδ double mutant. ABA inhibited stomatal opening in the wild type and the pldδ mutant but not in the pldα1 mutant. In wild-type rosette leaves, ABA significantly increased PLDδ transcript levels but did not change PLDα1 transcript levels. Furthermore, the pldα1 and pldδ mutations mitigated ABA inhibition of seed germination. These results suggest that PLDα1 and PLDδ cooperate in ABA signaling in guard cells but that their functions do not completely overlap.
rac-{[2-(Diphenylthiophosphoryl)ferrocenyl]methyl}dimethylammonium diphenyldithiophosphinate
Authors: Mouas Nardjes , Merazig Hocine , Daran Jean-Claude , Manoury Eric
Published: March 2012

2-(Diphenylthiophosphino)dimethylaminomethylferrocene is a key intermediate in the synthesis of various ferrocenyl ligands. During one such synthesis, the title compound, [Fe(C5H5)(C20H22NPS)](C12H10PS2), was isolated as a by-product. It is built up by association of (2-(diphenylphosphino)ferrocenyl)methyl)dimethylammonium cations and diphenylphosphino dithioate anions. N—H...S, C—H...S and C—H...π interactions link the anions and cations. Each anion–cation pair is linked two by two through C—H...π interactions, forming pseudo dimers.
Increased incidence of chronic lymphocytic leukaemia and lymphomas in patients with Merkel cell carcinoma – a population based study of 335 cases with neuroendocrine skin tumour
Authors: Tadmor Tamar , Liphshitz Irena , Aviv Ariel , Landgren Ola , Barchana Micha , Polliack Aaron
Published: March 2012

Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC) is a rare aggressive skin tumour that appears to be associated with a large number of other tumours. We collected all reported cases in Israel and estimated its association with other tumours, including haematological malignancies. The population based Israel Cancer Registry identified 335 patients with MCC diagnosed between1989 and 2010. Ninety‐seven percent were in the Jewish population; median age at diagnosis for Jewish patients was 73·4 and 55·6 years for the Arab population. Other associated malignancies were encountered in 92 patients (27·4%) with MCC (90 Jews, two Arabs). Of the Jewish cases, 66 presented with an associated malignancy before, and 24 after, the diagnosis of MCC. Solid tumours were not significantly increased among patients with MCC. Thirty‐one of these associated cancers (34·4%) were haemato‐oncological malignancies, 24 were detected before and seven after the diagnosis of MCC. The standardized incidence ratio (SIR) for haematological malignancy was 3·67 for males and 3·62 for females, and the most frequent haemato‐oncological neoplasias recorded were chronic lymphocytic leukaemia (45%) and lymphomas (29%). Although MCC is rare, clinicians should be aware of the possible association with B‐cell lymphoproliferative disorders when evaluating patients with neuroendocrine skin tumours.
How to manage invasive procedures in children with haemophilia
Authors: Ljung Rolf C. R. , Knobe Karin
Published: March 2012

Invasive procedures can be performed safely in children with haemophilia due to the availability of factor VIII/IX for patients without inhibitors. Most guidelines are based on the experiences in adults, but still there is no established consensus on the optimal factor levels or duration of replacement therapy for adults undergoing surgery. Few publications have focused on surgery in children with haemophilia. Children who have developed inhibitors to factor VIII/IX have to be treated with bypassing agents and constitute a group at higher risk for bleeding complications during surgery. The aim of this review is to summarize the experiences and opinions in the literature on replacement treatment of children with haemophilia, with and without inhibitors, during and after surgery, with a focus on the most prevalent clinical situations.
GATA transcription factors are involved in IgE‐dependent mast cell degranulation by enhancing the expression of phospholipase C‐γ1
Authors: Ishijima Yasushi , Ohmori Shin’ya , Uenishi Ayano , Ohneda Kinuko
Published: March 2012

Mast cell degranulation is a dynamic, highly organized process involving numerous signaling molecules and enzymes. Although the molecular mechanisms underlying antigen‐mediated mast cell degranulation have been studied intensively, little is known about the transcriptional control of this process. Here, we show that the hematopoietic transcription factors GATA1 and GATA2 are involved in mast cell degranulation through the control of phospholipase C‐γ1 (PLC‐γ1) expression. Knockdown of GATA1 and/or GATA2 by specific siRNA significantly reduced antigen‐induced degranulation and Ca2+ mobilization in the rat basophilic leukemia cell line RBL‐2H3. RT‐PCR analyses showed that PLC‐γ1 expression was significantly decreased by this GATA factor repression. Other GATA factor targets, such as the previously reported α and β subunits of the high‐affinity IgE receptor (FcεRI), were unaffected. Chromatin immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assays demonstrated that GATA factors directly activate PLC‐γ1 gene transcription through a conserved GATA‐binding motif that resides in the 5′‐upstream sequence. Furthermore, we show evidence that the PLC‐γ1 expression is regulated by GATA2 in mast cells derived from mouse bone marrow. These data indicate that PLC‐γ1 is a target gene of GATA factors in mast cells and provide evidence that GATA1 and GATA2 control antigen‐mediated mast cell degranulation by regulating the expression of PLC‐γ1.
Using model‐data fusion to interpret past trends, and quantify uncertainties in future projections, of terrestrial ecosystem carbon cycling
Authors: Keenan Trevor F. , Davidson Eric , Moffat Antje M. , Munger William , Richardson Andrew D.
Published: March 2012

Uncertainties in model projections of carbon cycling in terrestrial ecosystems stem from inaccurate parameterization of incorporated processes (endogenous uncertainties) and processes or drivers that are not accounted for by the model (exogenous uncertainties). Here, we assess endogenous and exogenous uncertainties using a model‐data fusion framework benchmarked with an artificial neural network (ANN). We used 18 years of eddy‐covariance carbon flux data from theHarvard forest, where ecosystem carbon uptake has doubled over the measurement period, along with 15 ancillary ecological data sets relative to the carbon cycle. We test the ability of combinations of diverse data to constrain projections of a process‐based carbon cycle model, both against the measured decadal trend and under future long‐term climate change. The use of high‐frequency eddy‐covariance data alone is shown to be insufficient to constrain model projections at the annual or longer time step. Future projections of carbon cycling under climate change in particular are shown to be highly dependent on the data used to constrain the model. Endogenous uncertainties in long‐term model projections of future carbon stocks and fluxes were greatly reduced by the use of aggregated flux budgets in conjunction with ancillary data sets. The data‐informed model, however, poorly reproduced interannual variability in net ecosystem carbon exchange and biomass increments and did not reproduce the long‐term trend. Furthermore, we use the model‐data fusion framework, and theANN, to show that the long‐term doubling of the rate of carbon uptake atHarvard forest cannot be explained by meteorological drivers, and is driven by changes during the growing season. By integrating all available data with the model‐data fusion framework, we show that the observed trend can only be reproduced with temporal changes in model parameters. Together, the results show that exogenous uncertainty dominates uncertainty in future projections from a data‐informed process‐based model.
Antibody validation by combining immunohistochemistry and protein extraction from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues
Authors: Schuster Claudia , Malinowsky Katharina , Liebmann Sibylle , Berg Daniela , Wolff Claudia , Tran Kai , Schott Christina , Reu Simone , Neumann Jens , Faber Claudius , Höfler Heinz , Kirchner Thomas , Becker Karl‐Friedrich , Hlubek Falk
Published: March 2012

Schuster C, Malinowsky K, Liebmann S, Berg D, Wolff C, Tran K, Schott C, Reu S, Neumann J, Faber C, Höfler H, Kirchner T, Becker K‐F & Hlubek F

(2012) Histopathology 60, E37–E50

Antibody validation by combining immunohistochemistry and protein extraction from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues

Aims:  Personalized cancer treatment strategies depend on comprehensive and detailed characterization of individual human malignancies. Clinical pathology, particularly immunohistochemical evaluation of biomarkers in tissues, is considered to be the approved standard for diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, having a direct influence on patient management and therapy. Although antibody‐based approaches are established and integrated successfully into both clinical and research applications, for personalized treatment regimens new demands have been placed on the quality, reproducibility and accuracy of antibody‐based assays. To ensure the accuracy of specific antigen detection in immunohistochemistry, we introduce a novel approach for antibody validation.

Methods and results:  In a tandem approach we used the same archival tissue of interest for antibody validation by combining extraction of immunoreactive proteins from formalin‐fixed, paraffin‐embedded tissue with Western blot analysis and immunohistochemistry. This procedure allows for specification of the antigen detected and for localization of the protein in the tissue. Of the 32 antibodies tested used in research and routine diagnostics, 19 showed reliable specificity in both assays.

Conclusion:  This study emphasizes the advantage of combining suitable methods to ensure reproducibility and specific antigen detection. Based on our results, we propose a novel step‐by‐step strategy to validate antibody specificity and reduce variability of immunohistochemical results.
CD133 expression is associated with poor outcome in neuroblastoma via chemoresistance mediated by the AKT pathway
Authors: Sartelet Hervé , Imbriglio Tina , Nyalendo Carine , Haddad Elie , Annabi Borhane , Duval Michel , Fetni Raouf , Victor Kokta , Alexendrov Lubo , Sinnett Daniel , Fabre Monique , Vassal Gilles
Published: March 2012

Sartelet H, Imbriglio T, Nyalendo C, Haddad E, Annabi B, Duval M, Fetni R, Victor K, Alexendrov L, Sinnett D, Fabre M & Vassal G  (2012) Histopathology 60, 1144–1155

CD133 expression is associated with poor outcome in neuroblastoma via chemoresistance mediated by the AKT pathway

Aims:  Neuroblastoma is a frequent childhood cancer with a heterogeneous prognosis. CD133 expression is an independent prognostic marker for a low survival rate in several cancers. The aim of this study was to determine the prognostic value of CD133 expression in a large cohort of neuroblastoma cases, to define the chemoresistance of neuroblastoma cells expressing CD133, and to determine whether this chemoresistance is regulated by activation of the AKT pathway.

Methods and results:  Two hundred and eighty samples of neuroblastoma were screened for CD133 expression. The sensitivity of purified CD133+ neuroblastoma cells isolated from two human cell lines to doxorubicin, vincristine and cisplatin, as single agents or in combination with LY294002, an AKT inhibitor, was evaluated in vitro. CD133 expression was found in 100 of 280 tumours. There was a significant association between CD133 expression and the following poor prognosis covariates: age, International Neuroblastoma Staging System stage, MYCN amplification, and phospho‐AKT (pAKT) expression. Patients with CD133− tumours had significantly better 3‐year event‐free and overall survival than patients with CD133+ tumours. In a multivariate model, CD133 expression was independently associated with decreased overall survival. CD133high neuroblastoma cells were significantly resistant to chemotherapy as compared with CD133low cells. Treatment of unsorted neuroblastoma cells with the three anticancer drugs significantly enriched the CD133+ subpopulation. CD133high cells expressed significantly higher levels of pAKT than CD133low cells. LY294002 treatment abolished the preferential survival of CD133high cells.

Conclusions:  CD133 is associated with in‐vitro resistance to chemotherapy involving activation of the AKT pathway.
Immunohistochemical analysis of the endoribonucleases Drosha, Dicer and Ago2 in smooth muscle tumours of soft tissues
Authors: Papachristou Dionysios J , Sklirou Emilia , Corradi Domenico , Grassani Chiara , Kontogeorgakos Vasileios , Rao Uma N M
Published: March 2012

Papachristou D J, Sklirou E, Corradi D, Grassani C, Kontogeorgakos V & Rao U N M

(2012) Histopathology 60, E28–E36

Immunohistochemical analysis of the endoribonucleases Drosha, Dicer and Ago2 in smooth muscle tumours of soft tissues

Aims:  The aims of the present study were to determine the protein levels and cellular distribution of the endoribonucleases Drosha, Dicer and Ago2, major components of the microRNA‐processing machinery, in benign and malignant soft tissue smooth muscle tumours, and to correlate the cellular levels of these enzymes with clinicopathological parameters including tumour histopathological grade.

Methods and results:  Cellular levels of Drosha, Dicer and Ago2 were evaluated in 110 soft tissue leiomyosarcomas (LMS), 31 leiomyomas (LM) and normal smooth muscle (NSM) using immunohistochemistry. Drosha and Dicer were barely detectable in NSM, while augmented levels of these enzymes were observed in LM and LMS. This finding suggests that Drosha and Dicer are implicated in the development of smooth muscle neoplasms. Notably, cellular levels of Dicer were significantly greater in high‐grade compared to low‐grade LMS, implying its participation in the progression of these neoplasms. Ago2 was detected in NSM, as well as LM and LMS; its cellular levels were not associated with tumour grade.

Conclusions:  Our results provide novel evidence that Drosha, Dicer and Ago2 are probably involved in the pathobiology of human smooth muscle neoplasms and that Dicer could serve as potentially significant biomarker for LMS progression.
Endodontic management of mandibular central incisor fused to a supernumerary tooth associated with a talon cusp: a case report
Authors: Sachdeva G. S. , Malhotra D. , Sachdeva L. T. , Sharma N. , Negi A.
Published: March 2012

Sachdeva GS, Malhotra D, Sachdeva LT, Sharma N, Negi A. Endodontic management of mandibular central incisor fused to a supernumerary tooth associated with a talon cusp: a case report. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 590–596, 2012.

Aim  To report the successful non‐surgical endodontic management of a mandibular central incisor fused to a supernumerary tooth associated with a talon cusp.

Summary  Fusion and gemination are developmental anomalies of teeth that may require endodontic treatment. In this article, a case of successful endodontic management of a permanent mandibular right central incisor fused to its supernumerary counterpart associated with a talon cusp is reported. The incidence of fusion in mandibular anteriors is rare. A search of the literature failed to reveal any reports on the fusion of a permanent mandibular central incisor with its supernumerary counterpart associated with a talon cusp. Successful non‐surgical endodontic management of a case is reported.

Key learning points 

 Fused and geminated teeth requiring endodontic treatment present diagnostic and technical challenges.

 An exact differentiation between fusion and gemination may not be critically important for treatment.

 The use of an operating microscope for detection of additional root canal orifices in complicated cases is recommended.
Ten‐year follow‐up observations of periapical and endodontic status in a Danish population
Authors: Kirkevang L.‐L. , Væth M. , Wenzel A.
Published: March 2012

Kirkevang L‐L, Væth M, Wenzel A. 10‐year follow‐up observations of periapical and endodontic status in a Danish population. International Endodontic Journal, 45, 829–839, 2012.

Aim  To describe changes in periapical and endodontic status in a general adult Danish population examined in 1997, 2003 and 2008.

Methodology  The study provides longitudinal, observational information on endodontic status for 327 individuals who participated in three consecutive full‐mouth radiographic examinations performed with an approximately 5‐year interval. The collected data allow changes to be investigated within and between age‐cohorts.

Results  The median number of teeth declined slightly, but the number of individuals with apical periodontitis (AP) and with root filled teeth increased. The number of teeth with AP and of teeth with root fillings increased, whereas the number of root filled teeth with AP was almost stable.

The proportion of individuals who had no AP and the proportion of individuals who had no root fillings decreased during the 10‐year observation period.

The proportion of teeth with AP/individual increased steadily with age, unaffected by the different time periods. Differences were found between the age groups for the proportion of root filled teeth/individual where the younger age‐cohorts had root fillings performed later in life and at a slower rate. In the old age‐cohort, the proportion of lost teeth/individual was much larger and showed a stronger increase with age, than in the younger age‐cohorts.

Conclusion  The younger age‐cohorts will probably never reach the proportion of root fillings or lost teeth seen in the oldest age‐cohort. However, it is disturbing that the proportion of teeth with AP/individual increased steadily with age, completely unaffected by the different time periods.
Serum from patients with erectile dysfunction inhibits circulating angiogenic cells from healthy men: relationship with cardiovascular risk, endothelial damage and circulating angiogenic modulators
Authors: Pelliccione F. , D’Angeli A. , Filipponi S. , Falone S. , Necozione S. , Barbonetti A. , Francavilla F. , Francavilla S.
Published: March 2012

Erectile dysfunction (ED) is an early manifestation of arteriosclerosis associated with endothelial damage/dysfunction and to a blunted ability of cultured mononuclear circulating cells (MNCs) to differentiate circulating angiogenic cells (CACs), putatively involved in endothelial damage repair. Here we explored effects of human serum (HS) from patients with ED and cardiovascular risk factors (VRFs) but no clinical atherosclerosis, on cultured MNCs of healthy men to differentiate CACs and to form colonies. Effect of HS on number of CACS and of colony forming units (CFUs) was correlated with circulating markers of endothelial damage and with angiogenic modulators. MNCs from healthy men were cultured in standard conditions or with 20% HS from 35 patients with ED and from 10 healthy men. CACs were identified after 7 days of culture by uptake of acetylated low‐density lipoprotein with concomitant binding of Ulex europaeus agglutinin I. CFUs were counted after 5 days of culture. Enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assays assessed plasmatic soluble (s) form of E‐selectin, Endothelin (ET)‐1, tissue type plasminogen activator (tPA), vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)165 and sVEGF receptor (R)‐1. The number of CACs and of CFUs from healthy men was reduced after culturing MNCs with HS compared to standard medium. The inhibitory effect was significantly higher with HS from ED patients with higher or lower VRF exposure compared to healthy men. Inhibition was positively correlated with VRFs exposure, with ED severity, with common carotid artery intima media thickness measured using B‐mode ultrasound, and to a lesser extent with plasmatic sE‐Selectin, sET‐1 and sVEGFR‐1. Dysfunction of cells involved in vascular homoeostasis is induced by soluble factors still unknown and already present in a very initial systemic vascular disease in men with ED and VRFs.
No effects of n−3 fatty acid supplementation on serum total testosterone levels in older men: the Alpha Omega Trial
Authors: Giltay E. J. , Geleijnse J. M. , Heijboer A. C. , de Goede J. , Oude Griep L. M. , Blankenstein M. A. , Kromhout D.
Published: March 2012

The intake of the n−3 fatty acids alpha‐linolenic acid (ALA), acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) has been related to testosterone levels in epidemiological analyses. The aim of this study was to assess whether the n−3 fatty acids affects testosterone levels in post‐myocardial infarction (MI) patients, who are at risk of testosterone deficiency. In a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial of low‐dose supplementation of n−3 fatty acids, we included 1850 male post‐MI patients aged 60–80 years who participated in the Alpha Omega Trial. Patients were randomly allocated to margarines that provided 400 mg/day of EPA–DHA (n = 453), 2 mg/day of ALA (n = 467), EPA–DHA plus ALA (n = 458), or placebo (n = 472). Serum testosterone levels were assessed at baseline and after 41 months using whole day blood samples obtained at the subjects’ home or at the hospital. Subjects were on average age of 68.4 (SD 5.3) years old and had baseline mean serum total testosterone of 14.8 (SD 5.6) nmol/L. The four randomized groups did not differ for baseline characteristics. ALA, EPA–DHA, and EPA–DHA plus ALA supplementation did not affect serum total testosterone compared to placebo. Moreover, n−3 fatty acid supplementation did not affect the risk of incident testosterone deficiency (n = 76 with total testosterone <8.0 nmol/L). We conclude that n−3 fatty acids supplementation did not affect serum total testosterone in men who had had a MI.
Development, reproducibility and validity of the food frequency questionnaire in the Poland arm of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study
Authors: Dehghan M. , Ilow R. , Zatonska K. , Szuba A. , Zhang X. , Mente A. , Regulska‐Ilow B.
Published: March 2012

How to cite this article: Dehghan M., Ilow R., Zatonska K., Szuba A., Zhang X., Mente A. & Regulska‐Ilow B. (2012) Development, reproducibility and validity of the food frequency questionnaire in the Poland arm of the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study. J Hum Nutr Diet. 25, 225–232

Background:  A food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) is the most commonly used method in large epidemiological studies. The validation of an FFQ is essential for specific populations because foods are culture‐dependent. The present study aimed to develop an FFQ and evaluate its validity and reproducibility in estimating the intake of nutrients in urban and rural areas of Poland.

Methods:  Adult participants (n = 146) in the Polish arm of the ongoing Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological (PURE) study completed FFQs on two occasions, as well as four 24‐h dietary recalls (DRs) during a 12‐month period. Correlation coefficients (r) and de‐attenuated correlation coefficients between dietary recalls and both FFQs were calculated for selected macro‐ and micronutrients. Agreement between the two methods was evaluated by classification into quartiles and the Bland–Altman method. Reproducibility was assessed by the intra‐class correlation coefficient (ICC).

Results:  The final food list contained 134 food items. For urban participants, FFQ2 generally underestimated energy, protein and fat compared to the FFQ1 and mean of DRs. In rural areas, compared to DRs, both FFQs overestimated energy and macronutrients. For both urban and rural settings, de‐attenuated correlation exceeded 0.4 for almost all nutrients and the exact agreement in quartile categorisation was >66%. When assessing repeatability, ICC varied from 0.39–0.63 in an urban setting and 0.19–0.45 in a rural setting.

Conclusions:  This 134‐item FFQ has good validity and reproducibility in relation to the reference method and can be used to rank individuals based on their macro‐ and micronutrient intake.
Blood‐feeding ecology of mosquitoes in zoos
Authors: TUTEN H. C. , BRIDGES W. C. , PAUL K. S. , ADLER P. H.
Published: March 2012

To determine if the unique host assemblages in zoos influence blood‐feeding by mosquitoes (Diptera: Culicidae), a sampling programme was conducted in Greenville and Riverbanks Zoos, South Carolina, U.S.A., from April 2009 to October 2010. A total of 4355 female mosquitoes of 14 species were collected, of which 106 individuals of nine species were blood‐fed. The most common taxa were Aedes albopictus (Skuse), Aedes triseriatus (Say), Anopheles punctipennis (Say), Culex erraticus (Dyar & Knab), Culex pipiens complex (L.) and Culex restuans (Theobald). Molecular analyses (cytochrome b) of bloodmeals revealed that mosquitoes fed on captive animals, humans and wildlife, and took mixed bloodmeals. Host species included one amphibian, 16 birds, 10 mammals (including humans) and two reptiles. Minimum dispersal distances after feeding on captive hosts ranged from 15.5 m to 327.0 m. Mosquito–host associations generally conformed to previous accounts, indicating that mosquito behaviour inside zoos reflects that outside zoos. However, novel variation in host use, including new, exotic host records, warrants further investigation. Zoos, thus, can be used as experiment environments in which to study mosquito behaviour, and the findings extrapolated to non‐zoo areas, while providing medical and veterinary benefits to zoo animals, employees and patrons.
Towards deciphering dynamic changes and evolutionary mechanisms involved in the adaptation to low salinities in Ectocarpus (brown algae)
Authors: Dittami Simon M. , Gravot Antoine , Goulitquer Sophie , Rousvoal Sylvie , Peters Akira F. , Bouchereau Alain , Boyen Catherine , Tonon Thierry
Published: March 2012

Colonizations of freshwater by marine species are rare events, and little information is known about the underlying mechanisms. Brown algae are an independent lineage of photosynthetic and multicellular organisms from which few species inhabit freshwater. As a marine alga that is also found in freshwater, Ectocarpus is of particular interest for studying the transition between these habitats. To gain insights into mechanisms of the transition, we examined salinity tolerance and adaptations to low salinities in a freshwater strain of Ectocarpus on physiological and molecular levels. We show that this isolate belongs to a widely distributed and highly stress‐resistant clade, and differed from the genome‐sequenced marine strain in its tolerance of low salinities. It also exhibited profound, but reversible, morphological, physiological, and transcriptomic changes when transferred to seawater. Although gene expression profiles were similar in both strains under identical conditions, metabolite and ion profiles differed strongly, the freshwater strain exhibiting e.g. higher cellular contents of amino acids and nitrate, higher contents of n‐3 fatty acids, and lower intracellular mannitol and sodium concentrations. Moreover, several stress markers were noted in the freshwater isolate in seawater. This finding suggests that, while high stress tolerance and plasticity may be prerequisites for the colonization of freshwater, genomic alterations have occurred that produced permanent changes in the metabolite profiles to stabilize the transition.
Detection of resistant chickpea (Cicer arietinum) genotypes to Cuscuta campestris (field dodder)
Authors: GOLDWASSER Y , MIRYAMCHIK H , SIBONY M , RUBIN B
Published: March 2012

Goldwasser Y, Miryamchik H, Sibony M & Rubin B (2012). Detection of resistant chickpea (Cicer arietinum) genotypes to Cuscuta campestris (field dodder). Weed Research 52, 122–130.

The parasitic plant Cuscuta campestris (field dodder) is the most damaging dodder species, parasitising shoots of broad‐leaved crops. Cuscuta campestris control is extremely difficult because of its hard‐coated seeds, its nature of attachment and intimate host–parasite association. Chickpea is highly susceptible to C. campestris. However, there are few efficient means of selectively managing this parasitic plant in this crop. The aim of this study was to examine and detect the response of chickpea genotypes that are resistant to C. campestris, to identify, understand and utilise them to combat C. campestris. A large‐scale glasshouse screening was conducted to test the response of chickpea genotypes to C. campestris. Next, we tested outstanding resistant genotypes and Israeli varieties. Finally, we confirmed the response of the outstanding resistant genotypes and tested the resistance to secondary dodder parasitism. Most chickpea genotypes tested were susceptible to C. campestris. However, the chickpea genotypes ‘ICCV 95333’ and ‘Hazera 4’ exhibited high resistance; on more than 80% of the chickpea plants, there was no C. campestris development. The resistance phenomenon was characterised by the repelling of the parasite haustoria by the resistant host plant, thus leading to starvation and death of the obligate parasite. Further studies are in progress to elucidate the resistance phenomena and to confirm the resistance under field conditions.
Individual budgets for people with incontinence: results from a ‘shopping’ experiment within the British National Health Service
Authors: Fader Mandy J. , Cottenden Alan M. , Gage Heather M. , Williams Peter , Getliffe Katharine , Clarke‐O’Neill Sinead , Jamieson Katharine M. , Green Nicholas J.
Published: March 2012

Background and context  Most people with urinary incontinence are given limited choice when provided with absorbent products through the British National Health Service (NHS), even though the available range is large.

Objective  To investigate users’ preferences for four disposable designs (inserts, all‐in‐ones, belted/T‐shaped and pull‐ups) and towelling washable/reusable products, day and night.

Design  Shopping experiment.

Setting and participants  Community‐dwelling women and men in England with moderate‐to‐heavy urinary incontinence recruited to a larger trial.

Intervention  Participants tested each design and selected products they would prefer with a range of different budgets.

Main outcome measures  Design preferences (rankings); ‘purchasing’ decisions from designated budgets.

Results  Eighty‐five participants (49 men) tested products, 75 completed the shopping experiment. Inserts, most frequently supplied by the NHS, were ranked second to pull‐ups by women and lowest by men. When faced with budget constraints, up to 40% of participants opted to ‘mix‐and‐match’ designs. Over 15 different combinations of products were selected by participants in the shopping experiment. Most (91%) stated a willingness to ‘top‐up’ assigned budgets from income to secure preferred designs.

Discussion  Participants displayed diverse preferences. Enabling user choice of absorbent product design through individual budgets could improve satisfaction of consumers and efficiency of allocation of limited NHS resources.

Conclusion  Recent policy for the NHS seeks to provide consumers with more control in their care. Extension of the concept of individual budgets to continence supplies could be feasible and beneficial for patients and provide better value‐for‐money within the NHS. Further research is warranted.
Beyond needs and expectations: identifying the barriers and facilitators to written medicine information provision and use in Australia
Authors: Hamrosi Kim K. , Aslani Parisa , Raynor David K.
Published: March 2012

Purpose This study aimed to explore peoples’ needs and expectations of written medicines information (WMI), and to determine the barriers and facilitators experienced or perceived in the context of WMI provision and use.

Methods We conducted eight focus groups with 62 participants over 6 weeks in late 2008 in New South Wales, Australia. Using a semi‐structured topic schedule and examples of WMI from Australia and other English‐speaking countries as a guide, we explored themes relevant to WMI, including participant experiences, attitudes, beliefs and expectations.

Findings Our findings suggest less than half had previously received WMI, with many unaware of its availability. Many, but not all, wanted WMI to supplement the spoken information they received but not to replace it, and it was predominantly used to facilitate informed choice, ascertain medicine suitability and review instructions. The current leaflets were considered technical and long, and a summary leaflet in addition to comprehensive information was favoured. Accurate side‐effect information was the most important element that participants desired. The most common barriers to effective WMI use were time constraints and patient confidence, with participants citing empowerment, time and health‐care professional (HCP)–patient relationships as important facilitators.

Conclusion The findings provide insight and understanding of peoples needs and expectations, and clarify issues associated with use and non‐use of WMI. Challenges include addressing the barriers, especially of time and HCP attitudes to drive changes to workplace practices, and learning from the facilitating factors to encourage awareness and accessibility to WMI as a tool to empower patients.
What matters to users of services? An explorative study to promote shared decision making in health care
Authors: Padgett Kath , Rhodes Christine , Lumb Maureen , Morris Penny , Sherwin Sue , Symons Jools , Tate Joannie , Townend Ken
Published: March 2012

Background  Involving service users and carers in decisions about their health care is a key feature of health‐care practice. Professional health and social care students need to develop skills and attributes to best enable this to happen.

Aims  The aims were to explore service user and carer perceptions of behaviours, attributes and context required to enable shared decision making; to compare these perceptions to those of students and academic staff with a view to utilizing the findings to inform the development of student assessment tools.

Methods  A mixed methods approach was used including action learning groups (ALG) and an iterative process alongside a modified Delphi survey.

Participants  The ALGs were from an existing service user and carer network. The survey was sent to sixty students, sixty academics and 30 service users from 16 different professional disciplines, spanning four Universities in England.

Results  The collaborative enquiry process and survey identified general agreement that being open and honest, listening, showing respect, giving time and being up to date were important. The qualitative findings identified that individual interpretation was a key factor. An unexpected result was an insight into possible insecurities of students.

Conclusions  The findings indicate that distilling rich qualitative information into a format for student assessment tools could be problematic as the individual context could be lost, it is therefore proposed that the information could be better used as a learning rather than assessment tool. Several of those involved identified how they valued the process and found it beneficial.
Preservation of integrity and activity of Haberlea rhodopensis photosynthetic apparatus during prolonged light deprivation
Authors: Denev Iliya , Stefanov Detelin , Terashima Ichiro
Published: March 2012

The effect of prolonged light deprivation on ultrastructure, pigment composition and functions of photosynthetic apparatus of the resurrection plant Haberlea rhodopensis Friv. (Gesneriaceae) was studied. For this purpose, intact plants were kept in darkness for up to 6 months. Haberlea rhodopensis demonstrated extraordinary ability to preserve its photosynthetic machinery intact despite complete absence of light. During the first 4 weeks of light deprivation, we observed preservation of pigment content, chloroplast ultrastructure and a decrease in the rate of CO2 assimilation. The signs of dark‐induced senescence were observed only after the fourth week. This phase was characterized by decrease of pigment content, partial disintegration of chloroplast ultrastructure and by the development of photosystem II down regulation that includes the increases in non‐photochemical fluorescence quenching, qN. In comparison with other plants like common bean and Arabidopsis, the processes of dark‐induced senescence were very slow and the plants still can recover even after 6 months of light deprivation. We think these findings can open new opportunities for studying not only dark‐induced senescence but also to investigate mechanisms determining tolerance to multiple stresses affecting integrity of photosynthetic apparatus.
Changes in LH Pulsatility Profiles in Dairy Heifers During Exposure to Oestrous Urine and Vaginal Mucus
Authors: Nordéus K , Båge R , Gustafsson H , Söderquist L
Published: March 2012

Contents

Difficulty in observing oestrus is a problem for many dairy farmers performing AI. Finding ways to synchronize oestrous cycles or strengthen display of oestrus without hormonal treatments would be of great interest because many consumers object to the use of exogenous hormones on healthy animals. Modification of reproductive cycles through chemical communication has been reported in several species including cattle. LH is an important regulator of the follicular phase and could possibly be subject to pheromonal influence. This study focuses on the effect of volatile compounds from oestrous substances on LH pulsatility preceding the preovulatory LH surge in cattle. Four heifers of the Swedish Red breed were kept individually in isolation. Exposure to water during the control cycle (CC), and bovine oestrous urine and vaginal mucus during the treated cycle (TC), started simultaneously with induction of oestrus. Blood sampling at 15‐min intervals started 37 h after administration of PGF2α and continued for 8 h. Monitoring of reproductive hormones, visual oestrus detection and ultrasonographic examination of the ovaries continued until ovulation had occurred. The mean concentration of LH at pulse nadir was significantly higher during TC (2.04 ± 0.18 ng/ml) than during CC (1.79 ± 0.16 ng/ml), and peak amplitude was significantly higher during CC (Δ1.03 ± 0.09) than during TC (Δ0.87 ± 0.09). No other parameters differed significantly between the two cycles. We conclude that the difference in LH pulsatility pattern may be an effect of exposing heifers to oestrous vaginal mucus and/or urine and that the mechanism behind this needs further investigation.