bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Confocal microscopy: a new era in understanding the pathophysiologic background of inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Moscarella Elvira , Argenziano Giuseppe , Lallas Aimilios , Pellacani Giovanni , Longo Caterina
Published: March 2014

One of the emerging and intriguing applications of reflectance confocal microscopy is the evaluation of ‘dynamic’ processes of the skin that cannot be otherwise analysed using histopathology that offers a picture of the tissue at one time point. This is nicely illustrated by recent article by Wolberink et al. in the current issue of Exp Dermatol, in which the Authors evaluated patterns and time interval of polymorphonuclear neutrophil (PMN) migration in psoriatic plaques by means of reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM). This example underscores that a new era of confocal microscopy is starting, which promises to reveal a dynamic in vivo understanding of the pathophysiology of human skin diseases.
Role of the histone H3 lysine 9 methyltransferase Suv39 h1 in maintaining Epsteinn–Barr virus latency in B95–8 cells
Authors: Imai Kenichi , Kamio Noriaki , Cueno Marni E. , Saito Yuko , Inoue Hiroko , Saito Ichiro , Ochiai Kuniyasu
Published: March 2014

The ability of Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) to establish latent infection is associated with infectious mononucleosis and a number of malignancies. In EBV, the product of the BZLF1 gene (ZEBRA) acts as a master regulator of the transition from latency to the lytic replication cycle in latently infected cells. EBV latency is primarily maintained by hypoacetylation of histone proteins in the BZLF1 promoter by histone deacetylases. Although histone methylation is involved in the organization of chromatin domains and has a central epigenetic role in gene expression, its role in maintaining EBV latency is not well understood. Here we present evidence that the histone H3 lysine 9 (H3K9) methyltransferase suppressor of variegation 3–9 homolog 1 (Suv39 h1) transcriptionally represses BZLF1 in B95–8 cells by promoting repressive trimethylation at H3K9 (H3K9me3). Suv39 h1 significantly inhibited basal expression and ZEBRA‐induced BZLF1 gene expression in B95–8 B cells. However, mutant Suv39 h1 lacks the SET domain responsible for catalytic activity of histone methyl transferase and thus had no such effect. BZLF1 transcription was augmented when Suv39 h1 expression was knocked down by siRNA in B95–8 cells, but not in Akata or Raji cells. In addition, treatment with a specific Suv39 h1 inhibitor, chaetocin, significantly enhanced BZLF1 transcription. Furthermore, chromatin immunoprecipitation assays revealed the presence of Suv39 h1 and H3K9me3 on nucleosome histones near the BZLF1 promoter. Taken together, these results suggest that Suv39 h1–H3K9me3 epigenetic repression is involved in BZLF1 transcriptional silencing, providing a molecular basis for understanding the mechanism by which EBV latency is maintained.
Weak protein–ligand interactions studied by small‐angle X‐ray scattering
Authors: Tuukkanen Anne T. , Svergun Dmitri I.
Published: March 2014

Small‐angle X‐ray scattering (SAXS) is a powerful technique for studying weak interactions between proteins and their ligands (other proteins, DNA/RNA or small molecules) in solution. SAXS provides knowledge about the equilibrium state, the stoichiometry of binding and association–dissociation processes. The measurements are conducted in a solution environment that allows easy monitoring of modifications in protein–ligand association state upon environmental changes. Model‐free parameters such as the molecular mass of a system and the radius of gyration can be obtained directly from the SAXS data and give indications about the association state. SAXS is also widely employed to build models of biological assemblies at a resolution of approximately 10–20 Å. Low‐resolution shapes can be generated ab initio, although more detailed and biologically interpretable information can be obtained by hybrid modelling. In the latter approach, composite structures of protein–ligand complexes are constructed using atomic models of individual molecules. These may be predicted homology models or experimental structures from X‐ray crystallography or NMR. This review focuses on using SAXS data to model structures of protein–ligand complexes and to study their dynamics. The combination of SAXS with other methods such as size exclusion chromatography and dynamic light scattering is discussed.
Effects of Seasonal Operation on the Quality of Water Produced by Public‐Supply Wells
Authors: Bexfield Laura M. , Jurgens Bryant C.
Published: March 2014

Seasonal variability in groundwater pumping is common in many places, but resulting effects of seasonal pumping stress on the quality of water produced by public‐supply wells are not thoroughly understood. Analysis of historical water‐quality samples from public‐supply wells completed in deep basin‐fill aquifers in Modesto, California (134 wells) and Albuquerque, New Mexico (95 wells) indicates that several wells have seasonal variability in concentrations of contaminants of concern. In Modesto, supply wells are more likely to produce younger groundwater with higher nitrate and uranium concentrations during the summer (high) pumping season than during the winter (low) pumping season. In Albuquerque, supply wells are more likely to produce older groundwater with higher arsenic concentrations during the winter pumping season than during the summer pumping season. Seasonal variability in contaminant concentrations in Modesto is influenced primarily by effects of summer pumping on vertical hydraulic gradients that drive migration of shallow groundwater through the aquifer to supply wells. Variability in Albuquerque is influenced primarily by the period of time that a supply well is idle, allowing its wellbore to act as a conduit for vertical groundwater flow and contaminant migration. However, both processes are observed in each study area. Similar findings would appear to be likely in other alluvial basins with stratified water quality and substantial vertical head gradients. Results suggest that even in aquifers dominated by old groundwater, changes to seasonal pumping patterns and/or to depth of well completion can help reduce vulnerability to selected contaminants of either natural or anthropogenic origin.
Aquinas' Quinque Viae: Fools, Evil, and the Hiddenness of God
Authors: Marcar G.P.
Published: March 2014

At present a broad consensus may be discerned on Aquinas' ‘five ways' for proving the existence of God: either he is responding to atheism per se by means of five rational arguments, or he is not responding to any formal denial of God's existence. Both of these approaches ignore the two specific objections Aquinas raises prior to the five ways: evil is incompatible with the existence of an infinite goodness (the first objection), and the world does not require an external explanation (the second objection). While some have speculated on the structural significance of the second objection, the first has been universally regarded as irrelevant. This, I argue, is an oversight; Aquinas' first objection (from evil) is central to the quinque viae. Seen in this light, while Aquinas' five ways are not responses to atheism per se, they do address, and ultimately subvert, a specific form of disbelief.
Evaluation of fluorescence in‐situ hybridization in monomorphic endometrial stromal neoplasms and their histological mimics: a review of 49 cases
Authors: Stewart Colin J R , Leung Yee C , Murch Ashleigh , Peverall Joanne
Published: March 2014

Aims

To perform a population‐based review of monomorphic endometrial stromal tumours and their histological mimics presenting over a 20‐year period, including an evaluation of fluorescence in‐situ hybridization (FISH) for the JAZF1 and YWHAE breakaparts.

Methods and results

Forty‐nine tumours were examined, comprising 13 histological mimics and 36 endometrial stromal tumours [six stromal nodules (ESNs), 25 low‐grade stromal sarcomas (ESSs), and five monomorphic undifferentiated sarcomas (mUESs)]. Nine ESSs showed variant histological patterns, including smooth muscle, sex cord‐like/glandular, fibrous or rhabdoid differentiation. Three ESSs were initially misclassified as benign uterine lesions, and, conversely, three benign mimics were originally reported as ESSs. One mUES showed a prominent pseudopapillary pattern. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization demonstrated JAZF1 breakaparts in five of six ESNs and 16 of 25 ESSs; however, only three of nine ESS variants were positive. YWHAE breakaparts were present in four of five mUESs. Analysis of a subsequent metastasis in the YWHAE breakapart‐negative mUES demonstrated a YWHAE deletion. None of the histological mimics was positive in FISH analysis. Diffuse cyclin D1 expression was restricted to mUESs in this series.

Conclusions

Endometrial stromal neoplasms continue to present diagnostic difficulty. Fluorescence in‐situ hybridization analysis is helpful in distinguishing stromal tumours from their histological mimics and in distinguishing ESS from mUES.
High intratumoral macrophage content is an adverse prognostic feature in anaplastic large cell lymphoma
Authors: Pedersen Martin B , Danielsen Allan V , Hamilton‐Dutoit Stephen J , Bendix Knud , Nørgaard Peter , Møller Michael B , Steiniche Torben , d'Amore Francesco
Published: March 2014

Aims

Macrophage infiltration has been associated with prognosis in several cancers, including lymphoma, but has not been assessed systematically in anaplastic large cell lymphoma (ALCL). The aim of the study was to correlate expression of the macrophage‐associated antigens CD68 and CD163 with pre‐therapeutic parameters and outcome in a cohort of treatment‐naive ALCL patients.

Methods and results

Pre‐therapeutic tumour specimens from 52 patients with ALCL were included in a tissue microarray. The intratumoral macrophage content was assessed by immunohistochemical staining for CD68 and CD163, and quantified using digital image analysis. Anaplastic lymphoma kinase (ALK)‐positive patients were significantly younger and had a favourable outcome compared with ALK‐negative ALCL patients (median age: 42 versus 59 years; P = 0.008). However, ALK expression was not a significant predictor when adjusting for age. Although classical risk factors were distributed evenly between the compared groups, high intratumoral content of CD68 and/or CD163 correlated with poor outcome, in both univariate and multivariate analyses. High intratumoral CD163 content showed the strongest adverse association with both overall and progression‐free survival in ALK‐negative patients (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

A high content of intratumoral CD68‐ and/or CD163‐positive macrophages correlates with an adverse outcome in ALK‐negative ALCL.
Etravirine in treatment‐experienced, HIV‐1‐infected children and adolescents: 48‐week safety, efficacy and resistance analysis of the phase II PIANO study
Authors: Tudor‐Williams G , Cahn P , Chokephaibulkit K , Fourie J , Karatzios C , Dincq S , Opsomer M , Kakuda TN , Nijs S , Tambuyzer L , Tomaka FL ,   PIANO study group
Published: March 2014

Objectives

PIANO (Paediatric study of Intelence As an NNRTI Option; TMC125‐C213; NCT00665847) assessed the safety/tolerability, antiviral activity and pharmacokinetics of etravirine plus an optimized background regimen (OBR) in treatment‐experienced, HIV‐1‐infected children (≥ 6 to < 12 years) and adolescents (≥ 12 to < 18 years) over 48 weeks.

Methods

In a phase II, open‐label, single‐arm study, 101 treatment‐experienced patients (41 children; 60 adolescents) with screening viral load (VL) ≥ 500 HIV‐1 RNA copies/mL received etravirine 5.2 mg/kg (maximum dose 200 mg) twice a day (bid) plus OBR.

Results

Sixty‐seven per cent of patients had previously used efavirenz or nevirapine. At week 48, the most common treatment‐related grade ≥ 2 adverse event (AE) was rash (13%); 12% experienced grade 3 AEs. Only two grade 4 AEs occurred (both thrombocytopaenia, not etravirine related). At week 48, 56% of patients (68% children; 48% adolescents) achieved a virological response (VL<50 copies/mL; intent‐to‐treat, noncompleter=failure). Factors predictive of response were adherence > 95%, male sex, low baseline etravirine weighted genotypic score and high etravirine trough concentration (C0h). Seventy‐six patients (75%) completed the trial; most discontinuations occurred because of protocol noncompliance or AEs (8% each). Sixty‐five per cent of patients were > 95% adherent by questionnaire and 39% by pill count. Forty‐one patients experienced virological failure (VF; time‐to‐loss‐of‐virological‐response non‐VF‐censored algorithm) (29 nonresponders; 12 rebounders). Of 30 patients with VF with paired baseline/endpoint genotypes, 18 (60%) developed nonnucleoside reverse transcriptase inhibitor (NNRTI) mutations, most commonly Y181C. Mean etravirine area under the plasma concentration–time curve over 12 h (AUC0–12h; 5216 ng h/mL) and C0h (346 ng/mL) were comparable to adult target values.

Conclusions

Results with etravirine 5.2 mg/kg bid (with OBR) in this treatment‐experienced paediatric population and etravirine 200 mg bid in treatment‐experienced adults were comparable. Etravirine is an NNRTI option for treatment‐experienced paediatric patients.
Life Environmentalism: A Model Developed under Environmental Degradation
Authors: Torigoe Hiroyuki
Published: March 2014

The life environmentalism model, which emphasizes the lives and livelihoods of local communities, was developed in Japan on the basis of intensive field research in the Lake Biwa district. There were two opposing schools of thought when the model was created in 1984. One school recognized the benefits of untouched nature, relied on ecology as a science and was supported by ecological movements. We label this model natural environmentalism (the eco‐system model). The other school of thought maintained that the development of modern technology could resolve environmental problems and was strongly supported by the administrators of the Lake Biwa district. We have called this modern technocentrism. After critiquing both ideas we propose a life environmentalism model, which focuses on matters of ownership, community organization and residents' consciousness using the concepts of common possession, iibun (group views) and life consciousness. The model is effective in densely populated countries such as Japan and China but it may not be useful in areas with a low population density. The differences between the basic ideas of this model and the other two models, especially the eco‐system model, may provide hints on suitable ways to preserve the environment.
Union modernisation, coalitions and vulnerable work in the construction sector in Britain
Authors: Mustchin Stephen
Published: March 2014

This article analyses vulnerable work in the construction sector, the impact of the recession and union responses to these problems including the development of coalitions with civil society and state organisations, and provision of new services to members and other workers faced with heightened vulnerability at work. The case study is based on qualitative interviews and internal documentation, and focuses on the construction union, Union of Construction, Allied Technicians and Trades, and its work supported by the government‐backed Union Modernisation Fund. The findings demonstrate some innovative approaches to supporting workers facing vulnerability in terms of job insecurity, health and safety and other problems, including drawing on support from other organisations with specific expertise and resources. Problems in terms of the political contingency of these links, vulnerability in terms of changing funding regimes and priorities within state agencies, and the vast scale of the problem of vulnerability at work are also highly prominent.
Efficacy and cost‐effectiveness of octenidine wound gel in the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers in comparison to modern wound dressings
Authors: Hämmerle Gilbert , Strohal Robert
Published: March 2014

The aim of this study was to determine the efficacy, safety and cost‐effectiveness of an octenidine‐based wound gel in the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers. For this purpose, 49 wounds were treated with either modern wound‐phase‐adapted dressings alone (treatment arm 1; n = 17), octenidine wound gel plus modern wound‐phase‐adapted dressings (treatment arm 2; n = 17) or octenidine wound gel alone (treatment arm 3; n = 15). During the study period of 42 days with dressing changes every 3–5 days, wound healing characteristics and treatment costs of different dressings were analysed. Wound size reduction was significantly better (P = 0·028) in both octenidine wound gel treatment arms compared to modern dressings alone with total reductions of 14·6%, 64·1% and 96·2% in treatment arms 1–3. Early wound healing was merely observed under octenidine wound gel treatment (n = 9), whereby lowest treatment costs were generated by octenidine wound gel alone (€20·34/dressing change). As a result, the octenidine wound gel is cost‐effective and well suitable for the treatment of chronic venous leg ulcers, considering both safety and promotion of wound healing.
Effects on DNA Damage and/or Repair Processes as Biological Mechanisms Linking Psychological Stress to Cancer Risk
Authors: Jenkins Frank J. , Van Houten Bennett , Bovbjerg Dana H.
Published: March 2014

Considerable research effort in the past several decades has focused on the impact of psychological stress, and stress hormones, on cancer progression. Numerous studies have reported that stress hormone treatment or in vivo stress exposure can enhance the growth of tumor cell lines in vitro, as well as tumors in animal models, and have begun to explore molecular mechanisms. Comparatively little research has focused on the impact of psychological stress and stress hormones on cancer initiation, in part due to inherent methodological challenges, but also because potential underlying biological mechanisms have remained obscure. In this review, we present a testable theoretical model of pathways by which stress may result in cellular transformation and tumorigenesis. This model supports our overarching hypothesis that psychological stress, acting through increased levels of catecholamines and/or cortisol, can increase DNA damage and/or reduce repair mechanisms, resulting in increased risk of DNA mutations leading to carcinogenesis. A better understanding of molecular pathways by which psychological stress can increase the risk of cancer initiation would open new avenues of translational research, bringing together psychologists, neuroscientists, and molecular biologists, potentially resulting in the development of novel approaches for cancer risk reduction at the population level.
Effects of periodontal treatment on lung function and exacerbation frequency in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic periodontitis: A 2‐year pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zhou Xuan , Han Jing , Liu Zhiqiang , Song Yiqing , Wang Zuomin , Sun Zheng
Published: March 2014

Aim

To evaluate the direct effects of periodontal therapy in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) patients with chronic periodontitis (CP).

Materials and Methods

In a pilot randomized controlled trial, 60 COPD patients with CP were randomly assigned to receive scaling and root planing (SRP) treatment, supragingival scaling treatment, or oral hygiene instructions only with no periodontal treatment. We evaluated their periodontal indexes, respiratory function, and COPD exacerbations at baseline, 6 months, 1, and 2 years.

Results

Compared with the control group, measurements of periodontal indexes were significantly improved in patients in two treatment groups at 6‐month, 1‐year, and 2‐year follow‐up (all p < 0.05). Overall, the means of forced expiratory volume in the first second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) and FEV1 were significantly higher in the two therapy groups compared with the control group during the follow‐up (p < 0.05). In addition, the frequencies of COPD exacerbation were significantly lower in the two therapy groups than in the control group at 2‐year follow‐up (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our preliminary results from this pilot trial suggest that periodontal therapy in COPD patients with CP may improve lung function and decrease the frequency of COPD exacerbation.
Publication date and author spelling for the hidden angelshark Squatina occulta
Authors: Faria V. V. , Chiaramonte G. E. , van Oijen M. J. P.
Published: March 2014

Two dates of publication have been associated with the hidden angelshark Squatina occulta. Additionally, the name of the second author of this species has been cited with different spellings in different publications. Both inconsistencies are addressed in this study. It is suggested that the hidden angelshark be consistently cited as Squatina occulta Vooren & da Silva 1991.
Seasonal colour and antipredator behaviour in Etheostoma (Percidae)
Authors: Moran R. L. , von Ende C. N. , King B. H.
Published: March 2014

This study examined how colour varies across season and sex in the fantail darter Etheostoma flabellare and the banded darter Etheostoma zonale. Etheostoma flabellare has male‐only parental care and exhibited slight sexual dimorphism in overall colour, with no discernible effect of season on colour; whereas E. zonale does not have parental care and exhibited substantial sexual dimorphism in colour, but only in the breeding season. Additionally, antipredator behaviour of E. zonale was compared between males that were fully coloured during the breeding season and males that were partially coloured at that time, but the effects of colour and season were not consistent across males.
Thermal stratification influences maturation and timing of spawning in a local Clupea harengus population
Authors: Langård L. , Slotte A. , Skaret G. , Johannessen A.
Published: March 2014

Maturation and timing of spawning in relation to temperature were studied in a local Atlantic herring Clupea harengus population inhabiting a small semi‐enclosed ecosystem (7 km2) separated from the larger outer fjord system by narrow sills on the west coast of Norway. Ambient temperatures varied annually up to 4° C during both the pre‐spawning and spawning periods from February to April, but without affecting the spawning time. Instead, the timing of spawning was found to be related to thermal stratification in response to spring warming, which occurred about the same time every year regardless of initial temperatures.
Development of Bread with NaCl Reduction and Calcium Fortification: Study of Its Quality Characteristics
Authors: Bassett Maria N. , Pérez‐Palacios Trinidad , Cipriano Inês , Cardoso Paulo , Ferreira Isabel M.P.L.V.O. , Samman Norma , Pinho Olívia
Published: March 2014

The impact of NaCl reduction and replacement by CaCl2 : CaCO3 (50:50) on dough and bread characteristics is addressed in this study. Three recipes of white bread were formulated with different percentage of NaCl substitution; all doughs had 1.8 g of total salts added per 100 g flour weight basis. Comparison was performed against control bread containing 1.8 g of NaCl per 100 g flour weight basis. Alveograph and farinograph results indicated that addition of calcium decreased dough extensibility, stretchability and stability time, keeping strong flour characteristics. Calcium salts increased hardness of upper crust and decreased hardness of lower crust. An increase of calcium salts promoted lighter crumb and crust color. Descriptive sensory analysis indicated that 16 out of 25 traits showed significant differences between control and recipes. Principal component analysis using variables such as texture, color and sensory traits indicated that breads produced with 50% NaCl substitution were comparable with the control.

Practical Applications

The current interest in promoting a healthy diet encourages the design of foods that prevent diseases and cover specific nutritional requirements. Thus, reduction of salt intake and the fortification with beneficial minerals such as calcium is pertinent, as bread constitutes an important source of salt intake and its calcium contribution is low. The results show that it is possible to maintain the organoleptic characteristics and acceptability of the bread with reduced sodium content and 50% replacement by calcium salts. Estimating bread serving of 50 g, the calcium‐fortified bread with 50% sodium reduction could cover 13.5 and 17.6% of the calcium recommended daily intake for schoolchildren and adults with added beneficial effect on health, due to salt reduction. The purposed change in the sodium–calcium content has a dual beneficial effect on the health of the population, prevents problems related to high salt intake and helps to resolve calcium deficiency.
Fractured Fatherhood: An Analytic Philosophy Perspective on Moral and Legal Paternity
Authors: Hubin Donald C.
Published: March 2014

Fathers are typically thought to have an array of rights and responsibilities with respect to their children. However, the traditional concept of father is fractured. It comprises various descriptive and normative elements, and increasingly, the descriptive elements are not exemplified in one man, which raises legal and social problems about the assignment of paternal rights and responsibilities. From the perspective of analytic philosophy, I illustrate these problems with a variety of decisions by U.S. courts and propose an “allocative” approach that allows paternal rights and responsibilities to be held by distinct men. I argue that we must revise our concept of father to respond appropriately to its fragmentation and suggest implications for family theorists and researchers.
Behavioral Genetic Approaches and Family Theory
Authors: Moore Ginger A. , Neiderhiser Jenae M.
Published: March 2014

Family theories have been founded on research that cannot discriminate genetic and environmental influences and, consequently, most theories do not have highly developed models of gene–environment interplay in families. Behavioral genetic approaches, which can identify gene–environment interplay, have typically not been driven by family theories and have lacked adequate measurement of family processes. In this article, the authors describe behavioral genetic mechanisms and methods using representative examples of research on family processes, highlighting the advantages of an integrated approach. New directions in research and theory driven by an integrated approach are discussed.
Theory and Research From the Communication Field: Discourses That Constitute and Reflect Families
Authors: Galvin Kathleen M. , Braithwaite Dawn O.
Published: March 2014

From the disciplinary perspective of communication studies, we review theory and research in family communication, including a brief history of the family communication field; the contributions of a family communication perspective; and 5 theories of family communication: communication accommodation theory, communication privacy management theory, family communication patterns theory, narrative theor(ies), and relational dialectics theory. We then illustrate the concept of discourse dependence in family communication processes and discuss current trends in family communication research. We also suggest emerging directions for family communication scholarship.
Benefits Organizations Pursue when Seeking Competitive Advantage by Improving Environmental Performance
Authors: Finster Mark P. , Hernke Michael T.
Published: March 2014

Organizations cognitive of the strategic risk and opportunities associated with environmental challenges may employ industrial ecology (IE) concepts, methods, and tools to develop capabilities that both enhance environmental performance and provide competitive benefits. We introduce a typology of strategic benefits related to competitive advantage that are enabled by improved environmental performance. Industry examples illustrate how organizations embed IE concepts and methods into systems to generate capabilities that deliver these benefits and configure them for competitive advantage. The examples demonstrate the idiosyncratic, path‐dependent nature of capability development that helps sustain advantage, especially when competitors lack cognition of the global scope of the challenge, and the risks and benefits involved.
Cyr61 activates retinal cells and prolongs photoreceptor survival in rd1 mouse model of retinitis pigmentosa
Authors: Kucharska Joanna , del Río Patricia , Arango‐Gonzalez Blanca , Gorza Matteo , Feuchtinger Annette , Hauck Stefanie M. , Ueffing Marius
Published: March 2014

Subretinal injections with glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor (GDNF) rescue morphology as well as function of rod cells in mouse and rat animal models of retinitis pigmentosa. At the same time, it is postulated that this effect is indirect, mediated by activation of retinal Müller glial (RMG) cells. Here, we show that Cyr61/CCN1, one of the secreted proteins up‐regulated in primary RMG after glial cell line‐derived neurotrophic factor stimulation, provides neuroprotective and pro‐survival capacities: Recombinant Cyr61 significantly reduced photoreceptor (PR) cells death in organotypic cultures of Pde6brd1 retinas. To identify stimulated pathways in the retina, we treated Pde6brd1 retinal explants with Cyr61 and observed an overall increase in activated Erk1/2 and Stat3 signalling molecules characterized by activation‐site‐specific phosphorylation. To identify Cyr61 retinal target cells, we isolated primary porcine PR, RMG and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and exposed them separately to Cyr61. Here, RMG as well as RPE cells responded with induced phosphorylation of Erk1/2, Stat3 and Akt. In PR, no increase in phosphorylation in any of the studied proteins was detected, suggesting an indirect neuroprotective effect of Cyr61. Cyr61 may thus act as an endogenous pro‐survival factor for PR, contributing to the complex repertoire of neuroprotective activities generated by RMG and RPE cells.

image

We propose the following model of Cyr61 neuroprotection within the retina: Cyr61 stimulates retinal Müller glial (RMG) and retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) cells and activates PI3K/Akt, mitogen‐activated protein kinase(MAPK)/Erk and Janus kinase(JAK)/Stat‐signalling pathways in these cells. Phosphorylated Stat3 and Erk1/2 presumably translocate to the nucleus, induce transcriptional changes, which increase secretion of neuroprotective agents that protect photoreceptors (PR) from mutation‐induced death.
Detection and Molecular Identification of Aster Yellows Phytoplasma in Date Palm in Egypt
Authors: AlKhazindar Maha
Published: March 2014

Phytoplasma‐like symptoms were detected in date palm trees (Phoenix dactylifera L.) in Al‐Giza Governorate in Egypt. Symptoms varied from leaf chlorotic streaks, stunting and marked reduction in fruit and stalk sizes. Direct and nested PCR of symptomatic samples using P1/P7 and R16F2n/R16R2n primers, respectively, of the 16S rRNA gene, resulted in a DNA amplification product of c. 1.3 kbp. Symptomless samples collected from the same location and the healthy control produced no product upon amplification. Products were cloned into TOPO TA vector for sequencing. Data generated were deposited in the GenBank (Accession KF826615). A BLAST search showed that the sequence of the 16SrRNA gene shared ‘Candidatus Phytoplasma asteris’ (16SrI group) with other isolates. Phylogenetic analysis revealed that the isolate clustered with the date palm phytoplasma causing Al‐Wijam disease in Saudi Arabia.
Weaker Masturbatory Erection May Be a Sign of Early Cardiovascular Risk Associated with Erectile Dysfunction in Young Men Without Sexual Intercourse
Authors: Huang Yan-Ping , Chen Bin , Yao Feng-Juan , Chen Sheng-Fu , Ouyang Bin , Deng Chun-Hua , Huang Yi-Ran
Published: March 2014

Introduction

Although increasing evidences emphasize the importance of early cardiovascular evaluation in men with erectile dysfunction (ED) of unexplained aetiology, impaired masturbation-induced erections in young men are usually overlooked and habitually presumed to be psychological origin.

Aims

To evaluate the young men presenting weaker masturbatory erection with no sexual intercourse (WME-NS) and verify if this cohort have early cardiovascular risks associated with ED.

Methods

Male subjects aged 18–40 years with WME-NS were screened by analyzing detailed sexual intercourse and masturbatory history. The age-matched ED and non-ED population were identified by using International Index of Erectile Function-5 (IIEF-5). All subjects with acute and/or chronic diseases (including diagnosed hypertension and diabetes) and long-term pharmacotherapy were excluded. Nocturnal penile tumescence and rigidity (NPTR), systemic vascular parameters and biochemical indicators related to metabolism were assessed.

Main Outcome Measures

Comparison analysis and logistic regression analysis were conducted among WME-NS, ED and non-ED population.

Results

In total, 78 WME-NS cases (mean 28.99 ± 5.92 years), 179 ED cases (mean 30.69 ± 5.21 years) and 43 non-ED cases (mean 28.65 ± 4.30 years) were screened for analysis. Compared with non-ED group, WME-NS group had higher prevalence of early ED risk factors including endothelial dysfunction, insulin resistance, high level of glycosylated serum protein and abnormal NPTR. Multivariable-adjusted logistic regression analysis showed endothelia dysfunction (odds ratio: 8.83 vs. 17.11, both P < 0.001) was the independent risk factor for both WME-NS and ED.

Conclusions

Weaker masturbatory erection may be a sign of early cardiovascular risk associated with ED in young men without sexual intercourse. More studies are warranted to elucidate the clinical benefits by targeting these formulated strategies.
Religio‐Spiritual Participation in Two American Indian Populations
Authors: Garroutte Eva Marie , Beals Janette , Orton Anderson Heather , Henderson Jeffrey A. , Nez‐Henderson Patricia , Thomas Jacob , Croy Calvin , Manson Spero M. ,   The AI‐SUPERPFP Team
Published: March 2014

Following a previous investigation of religio‐spiritual beliefs in American Indians, this article examined prevalence and correlates of religio‐spiritual participation in two tribes in the Southwest and Northern Plains (N = 3,084). Analysis suggested a “religious profile” characterized by strong participation across three traditions: aboriginal, Christian, and Native American Church. However, sociodemographic variables that have reliably predicted participation in the general American population, notably gender and age, frequently failed to achieve significance in multivariate analyses for each tradition. Religio‐spiritual participation was strongly and significantly related to belief salience for all traditions. Findings suggest that correlates of religious participation may be unique among American Indians, consistent with their distinctive religious profile. Results promise to inform researchers’ efforts to understand and theorize about religio‐spiritual behavior. They also provide tribal communities with practical information that might assist them in harnessing social networks to confront collective challenges through community‐based participatory research collaborations.
The Complexity of Quest in Emerging Adults’ Religiosity, Well‐Being, and Identity
Authors: Cook Kaye V. , Kimball Cynthia N. , Leonard Kathleen C. , Boyatzis Chris J.
Published: March 2014

The construct of quest as measured by the Quest Scale raises complexities that this study addressed with online surveys measuring religiosity, ego identity, and well‐being of graduates from two Christian colleges. Intrinsic questers (those above the scale midpoint in intrinsic and quest scores but below the extrinsic midpoint) made up over half of those high in intrinsic religiosity and did not differ in Christian orthodoxy, religious identity, religious coping, or well‐being from the pure intrinsics (those high in intrinsic religiosity). Indiscriminately pro‐religious questing individuals (those high in intrinsic and extrinsic religiosity and quest) were less religious and showed poorer coping than intrinsic questers. Quest appears to be a reasonable measure of religious orientation, improving prediction of Christian orthodoxy, religious identity, and religious coping, and was more highly correlated with ego identity exploration than with stress. In association with intrinsic religiosity quest does not appear to indicate weak religiosity or poor well‐being. Instead, intrinsic questers may pursue a distinctive developmental trajectory, a path of existential searching by which emerging adults manage the demands of contemporary culture while maintaining a mature faith.
Do Religious Affirmations, Religious Commitments, or General Commitments Mitigate the Negative Effects of Exposure to Thin Ideals?
Authors: Inman Mary , Iceberg Erica , McKeel Laura
Published: March 2014

Western pressures for thinness tell women that having a thin body makes a person worthy. Two factors that may provide alternative means of self‐worth are religion and general commitment to a meaningful goal. This study experimentally tested whether religious‐affirming statements buffered against exposure to thin models for everyone, or only for women with strong religious commitment. It also examined the relationships among religious commitment, general commitment, and body satisfaction. One hundred eleven women at a religious‐affiliated college completed the commitment scales and baseline body measures. They were later randomly assigned to read one set of affirming statements, after which they then completed body measures again. Results showed that religious commitment buffered against exposure to ultrathin models. Women who were strongly religiously committed and who read religious statements that affirmed the body showed higher body esteem. Correlation results showed that general commitment was positively related to body esteem, body satisfaction, and healthy dieting. Religious commitment was positively related to body esteem and body satisfaction. Results are discussed in relation to schemas and depth of processing. Practical implications are discussed.
Photodissociation of CO isotopologues: Models of laboratory experiments and implications for the solar nebula
Authors: Lyons J. R.
Published: March 2014

CO photodissociation in the solar nebula and/or parent cloud has been proposed to be the mechanism responsible for forming the16O‐poor reservoir of the calcium‐aluminum‐rich inclusion (CAI) mixing line. However, laboratory experiments on CO photolysis found a wavelength dependence in the oxygen isotope ratios of the product O atoms, which was interpreted as proof that CO photolysis was not a viable mechanism. Here, I report photochemical simulations of these experiments using line‐by‐line CO spectra to identify the origin of the wavelength dependence. At long wavelengths (>105 nm), the line‐by‐line spectra for isotopic CO can explain the experimental data with a combination of C16O self‐shielding and reduced dissociation probabilities for C18O. At short wavelengths, the greater number of diffuse bands increases the importance of mass‐dependent fractionation, lowering the slope to below unity. The line‐by‐line isotopic spectra are then applied to CO photodissociation in a model solar nebula. Three FUV sources are considered (1) HD 303308, an O4 star in Carina; (2) HD 36981, a B5 star in Orion; and (3) TW Hydrae, a T Tauri star of 10 Myr age. Using reduced dissociation probabilities for C18O based on the photolysis experiments yields nebular water slopes approximately 0.95–1.0 for HD 303308 and TW Hya, and approximately 0.8–1.5 for HD 36981. For the central protostar case (TW Hya) with a simplified treatment of the 2‐D radiative transfer, slopes approximately 0.95–1.0 are obtained, independent of the C18O dissociation probability. Greatly improved measurements of the C17O and C18O cross sections and dissociation probabilities are in progress.
Detection and rapid recovery of the Sutter's Mill meteorite fall as a model for future recoveries worldwide
Authors: Fries Marc , Le Corre Lucille , Hankey Mike , Fries Jeff , Matson Robert , Schaefer Jake , Reddy Vishnu
Published: March 2014

The Sutter's Mill C‐type meteorite fall occurred on 22 April 2012 in and around the town of Coloma, California. The exact location of the meteorite fall was determined within hours of the event using a combination of eyewitness reports, weather radar imagery, and seismometry data. Recovery of the first meteorites occurred within 2 days and continued for months afterward. The recovery effort included local citizens, scientists, and meteorite hunters, and featured coordination efforts by local scientific institutions. Scientific analysis of the collected meteorites revealed characteristics that were available for study only because the rapid collection of samples had minimized terrestrial contamination/alteration. This combination of factors—rapid and accurate location of the event, participation in the meteorite search by the public, and coordinated scientific investigation of recovered samples—is a model that was widely beneficial and should be emulated in future meteorite falls. The tools necessary to recreate the Sutter's Mill recovery are available, but are currently underutilized in much of the world. Weather radar networks, scientific institutions with interest in meteoritics, and the interested public are available globally. Therefore, it is possible to repeat the Sutter's Mill recovery model for future meteorite falls around the world, each for relatively little cost with a dedicated researcher. Doing so will significantly increase the number of fresh meteorite falls available for study, provide meteorite material that can serve as the nuclei of new meteorite collections, and will improve the public visibility of meteoritics research.
Insights into the Martian mantle: The age and isotopics of the meteorite fall Tissint
Authors: Brennecka G. A. , Borg L. E. , Wadhwa M.
Published: March 2014

The recent witnessed fall of the meteorite Tissint represents the delivery of a pristine new sample from the surface of Mars. This meteorite provides an unprecedented opportunity to study a variety of aspects about the planet's evolution. Using the Rb–Sr and Sm–Nd isotopic systems, we determined that Tissint, a depleted shergottite, has a crystallization age of 574 ± 20 Ma, an initial ε143Nd = +42.2 ± 0.5, and an initial 87Sr/86Sr = 0.700760 ± 11. These initial Nd and Sr isotopic compositions suggest that Tissint originated from a mantle source on Mars that is distinct from the source reservoirs of the other Martian meteorites. The known crystallization ages, geochemical characteristics, ejection ages, and ejection dynamics of Tissint and other similarly grouped Martian meteorites suggest that they are likely derived from a source crater up to approximately 90 km in diameter with an age of approximately 1 Ma that is located on terrain that is approximately 600 million years old.
Daring to be different: colicin N finds another way
Authors: Jakes Karen S.
Published: March 2014

The mechanisms by which colicins, protein toxins produced by Escherichia coli, kill other E. coli, have become much better understood in recent years. Most colicins initially bind to an outer membrane protein receptor, and then search for a separate nearby outer membrane protein translocator that serves as a pathway into target cells. Many colicins use the outer membrane porin, OmpF, as that translocator, while using a different primary receptor. Colicin N is unique among known colicins in that only OmpF had been identified as being required for uptake of the colicin and it was presumed to somehow serve as both receptor and translocator. Genetic screens also identified a number of genes required for lipopolysaccharide (LPS) synthesis as uniquely required for killing by colicin N, but not by other colicins. Johnson et al. show that the receptor‐binding domain of colicin N binds to LPS, and does not require OmpF for that binding. LPS of a minimal length is required for binding, explaining the requirement for specific elements of the LPS biosynthetic pathway. For colicin N, the receptor‐binding domain does not recognize a protein, but rather the most abundant component of the outer membrane itself, LPS.
A role for the proteasome in the turnover of Sup35p and in [PSI+] prion propagation
Authors: Kabani Mehdi , Redeker Virginie , Melki Ronald
Published: March 2014

Yeast prions are superb models for understanding the mechanisms of self‐perpetuating protein aggregates formation. [PSI+] stands among the most documented yeast prions and results from self‐assembly of the translation termination factor Sup35p into protein fibrils. A plethora of cellular factors were shown to affect [PSI+] formation and propagation. Clearance of Sup35p prion particles is however poorly understood and documented. Here, we investigated the role of the proteasome in the degradation of Sup35p and in [PSI+] prion propagation. We found that cells lacking the RPN4 gene, which have reduced intracellular proteasome pools, accumulated Sup35p and have defects in [PSI+] formation and propagation. Sup35p is degraded in vitro by the 26S and 20S proteasomes in a ubiquitin‐independent manner, generating an array of amyloidogenic peptides derived from its prion‐domain. We also demonstrate the formation of a proteasome‐resistant fragment spanning residues 83–685 which is devoid of the prion‐domain that is essential for [PSI+] propagation. Most important was the finding that the 26S and 20S proteasomes degrade Sup35p fibrils in vitro and abolish their infectivity. Our results point to an overlooked role of the proteasome in clearing toxic protein aggregates, and have important implications for a better understanding of the life cycle of infectious protein assemblies.
Vitamin D: a new anti‐infective agent?
Authors: Borella Elisabetta , Nesher Gideon , Israeli Eitan , Shoenfeld Yehuda
Published: March 2014

Before the antibiotic era, treatment of tuberculosis patients was restricted to sun exposure in sanatoria. Years later, it was found that 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 stimulates production of cathelicidins, a family of polypeptides found in lysosomes of macrophages and polymorphonuclear leukocytes. Cathelicidins serve a critical role in innate immune defense, which plays an important role in the suppression of Mycobacterium infections and other pathogens. It is believed that the increased incidence of the common cold and pneumonia during winter is related, in part, to decreased exposure to sunlight, resulting in a decreased synthesis of 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3. An association has been established between low levels of vitamin D and upper respiratory and enteric infections, pneumonia, otitis media, Clostridium infections, vaginosis, urinary tract infections, sepsis, influenza, dengue, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV infections. Accumulating evidence suggests that 1,25‐dihydroxyvitamin D3 exerts protective effects during infections by upregulating the expression of cathelicidin and β‐defensin 2 in phagocytes and epithelial cells. Vitamin D may be acting as a panaceal antibiotic agent and thus may be useful as an adjuvant therapy in diverse infections.
Pam heterozygous mice reveal essential role for Cu in amygdalar behavioral and synaptic function
Authors: Gaier Eric D. , Eipper Betty A. , Mains Richard E.
Published: March 2014

Copper (Cu) is an essential element with many biological roles, but its roles in the mammalian nervous system are poorly understood. Mice deficient in the cuproenzyme peptidylglycine α‐amidating monooxygenase (Pam+/− mice) were initially generated to study neuropeptide amidation. Pam+/− mice exhibit profound deficits in a few behavioral tasks, including enhancements in innate fear along with deficits in acquired fear. Interestingly, several Pam+/− phenotypes were recapitulated in Cu‐restricted wild‐type mice and rescued in Cu‐supplemented Pam+/– mice. These behaviors correspond to enhanced excitability and deficient synaptic plasticity in the amygdala of Pam+/– mice, which are also rescued by Cu supplementation. Cu and ATP7A are present at synapses, in key positions to respond to and influence synaptic activity. Further study demonstrated that extracellular Cu is necessary for wild‐type synaptic plasticity and sufficient to induce long‐term potentiation. These experiments support roles for PAM in Cu homeostasis and for synaptic Cu in amygdalar function.