bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sleep disturbances, anxiety and depression in patients with oral lichen planus: a case–control study
Authors: Adamo D. , Ruoppo E. , Leuci S. , Aria M. , Amato M. , Mignogna M.D.
Published: April 2014

Background

The psychological factors and their association with chronic inflammatory disease, aren't well recognized, yet their importance in oral lichen planus is still debated.

Aims

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of sleep disturbances, anxiety, depression and their association in patient with oral lichen planus.

Materials and methods

50 patients with oral lichen planus vs. equal number of age and sex‐matched healthy controls were enrolled. Questionnaires examining insomnia symptoms, excessive daytime sleepiness (Pittsburgh sleep quality index and Epworth aleepiness scale) depression and anxiety (The Hamilton rating scale for Depression and Anxiety) were used.

Results

The patients with oral lichen planus had statistically higher scores in all items of the Pittsburgh sleep quality index, the Hamilton rating scale for depression and anxiety and Epworth sleepiness scale than the healthy controls. The median and inter‐quartile range of the Pittsburgh sleep quality index was 5‐2 and for the oral lichen planus patients and 4‐2 for the healthy controls (P < 0.011). In the study group, a depressed mood and anxiety correlated positively with sleep disturbances. The Pearson correlations were 0.76 for Pittsburgh sleep quality Index vs. Hamilton rating scale for depression (P < 0.001) and 0.77 for Pittsburgh sleep quality Index vs. Hamilton rating scale for anxiety (P < 0.001).

Discussion

Oral lichen planus patients report a greater degree of sleep problems, depressed mood and anxiety as compared with controls.

Conclusion

We suggest to screen sleep disturbances in patients with oral lichen planus because they could be considered a prodromal symptoms of mood disorders.
Dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy of pigmented actinic keratoses: a morphological study
Authors: Moscarella E. , Rabinovitz H. , Zalaudek I. , Piana S. , Stanganelli I. , Oliviero M. C. , Lallas A. , Ardigo M. , Cota C. , Catricalà C. , Mazzoni L. , Pellacani G. , Argenziano G. , Longo C.
Published: April 2014

Background

Actinic keratoses (AKs) are very common lesions on sun damaged skin and, when pigmented, represent a challenge in the differential diagnosis with early melanoma. Non‐invasive diagnostic methods, such as dermoscopy and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) have been shown to improve the diagnostic accuracy of melanoma and non‐melanoma skin cancer, however, only one case report described confocal findings of pigmented AKs up to now.

Objectives

The aim of our retrospective morphological study was to analyse dermoscopic and confocal images of a series of histopathologically proven pigmented AKs, located on the face and other body sites, to define peculiar features of these “difficult to diagnose” lesions.

Methods

Clinical, dermoscopic and RCM images of 17 histopathologically confirmed pigmented AKs were retrospectively collected from the databases of four skin lesion clinics in Italy and USA. Dermoscopic and RCM images were analysed for prevalent morphological features.

Results

The majority of the lesions were located on the face (n = 8); followed by scalp (n = 4) and trunk (n = 4); and one lesion was located on the lower limbs. On dermoscopy the majority of lesions were characterized by grey dots/globules/granularity and structureless brown pigmentation. The main RCM feature of pigmented AKs was as follows: (i) the presence of epidermal changes (atypical keratinocytes, parakeratosis, scaling); (ii) increased epidermal thickness; (iii) bright, small, dermal papillae with enlarged interpapillary space; and (iv) intraepidermal dendritic cells referrable to Langherans cells. Features suggestive of melanocytic lesions, such as nesting, meshwork pattern or atypical cells infiltrating the junction, were never detected in our case series at the dermal epidermal junction (DEJ) level.

Conclusion

Larger case series with adequate control population are warranted to validate these findings and to test their value in clinical setting.
Merging Limited Perspectives
Authors: Guenther Edeltraud M. , Hoppe Holger
Published: April 2014

For almost 40 years, the relationship between corporate environmental performance (CEP) and corporate financial performance (CFP) has been analyzed in hundreds of empirical studies without yielding conclusive results. A major reason for this unsatisfying situation is the use of different measurement and theoretical approaches. Our article provides a literature review of existing measurement approaches for CEP and CFP as well as an examination of available theories and factors regarding the causal relation, direction, and potential moderators and mediators of the CEP‐CFP relationship. In essence, we provide a synopsis by mapping not only the varying measurement approaches, but also the limited perspectives of the theories and factors about the relationship. With this synopsis, we aim to enhance the design of future studies through a metamodel that merges the limited perspectives of the theories and the factors on the CEP‐CFP link.
Exploration of presence/absence variation and corresponding polymorphic markers in soybean genome
Authors: Wang Yufeng , Lu Jiangjie , Chen Shouyi , Shu Liping , Palmer Reid G. , Xing Guangnan , Li Yan , Yang Shouping , Yu Deyue , Zhao Tuanjie , Gai Junyi
Published: April 2014

This study was designed to reveal the genome‐wide distribution of presence/absence variation (PAV) and to establish a database of polymorphic PAV markers in soybean. The 33 soybean whole‐genome sequences were compared to each other with that of Williams 82 as a reference genome. A total of 33,127 PAVs were detected and 28,912 PAV markers with their primer sequences were designed as the database NJAUSoyPAV_1.0. The PAVs scattered on whole genome while only 518 (1.8%) overlapped with simple sequence repeats (SSRs) in BARCSOYSSR_1.0 database. In a random sample of 800 PAVs, 713 (89.13%) showed polymorphism among the 12 differential genotypes. Using 126 PAVs and 108 SSRs to test a Chinese soybean germplasm collection composed of 828 Glycine soja Sieb. et Zucc. and Glycine max (L.) Merr. accessions, the per locus allele number and its variation appeared less in PAVs than in SSRs. The distinctness among alleles/bands of PCR (polymerase chain reaction) products showed better in PAVs than in SSRs, potential in accurate marker‐assisted allele selection. The association mapping results showed SSR + PAV was more powerful than any single marker systems. The NJAUSoyPAV_1.0 database has enriched the source of PCR markers, and may fit the materials with a range of per locus allele numbers, if jointly used with SSR markers.
The desire to survive: The adaptation process of adult cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy
Authors: Chao Yu Huan , Wang Shou‐Yu , Hsu Tsui Hua , Wang Kai Wei K.
Published: April 2014

Aim

Radiotherapy is one of the primary treatment strategies for cancer. However, patients not only deal with the side‐effects of radiotherapy, but they must also endure the psychological distress caused by cancer. This study explores how cancer patients adapt to the treatment process when receiving radiotherapy.

Methods

This study used a grounded theory approach, and eight in‐depth interviews were conducted with newly diagnosed cancer patients who received radiotherapy as a primary treatment.

Results

The core category that emerged from this study was “the desire to survive”. The categories and subcategories that emerged from the data include facing unknown situations (e.g. searching for relevant information and decision‐making considerations, and listening to healthcare professionals' suggestions), experiencing the pain of treatment (e.g. tolerating side‐effects, tolerating inconvenience during the treatment, accepting support during the treatment, and adjusting lifestyles), and chances to extend life (e.g. accepting fate, determination to undergo the treatment, and adjusting negative emotions).

Conclusion

The study results provide a better understanding of the experiences of cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy. Healthcare professionals should provide effective medical management for side‐effects and psychological support to cancer patients during the journey of radiotherapy.
Health Education Needs of Incarcerated Women
Authors: Dinkel Shirley , Schmidt Katie
Published: April 2014

Purpose

This study identifies the healthcare education needs of incarcerated women in a state corrections facility.

Methods

This was a naturalistic qualitative study. Focus groups included two groups of adult women incarcerated in a state corrections facility. One group consisted of women housed in maximum security, and one group consisted of women housed in medium security. Data were analyzed using a constant comparison approach.

Findings

Three guiding questions provided the foundation for the identified themes. Themes included six healthcare education topics important to incarcerated women and three related to health education strategies best suited for incarcerated women.

Conclusions

Trust, respect and empowerment are key concepts in educating incarcerated women about their personal health and health of their families.

Clinical Relevance

With over 200,000 women incarcerated in the United States today, creating policies and practices that focus on the healthcare education needs of women that are woman focused may enhance knowledge and skills and may ultimately lead to reduced recidivism.
Early Recovery Experience of Patients With Injury in Taiwan
Authors: Chou Pi‐Ling , Chien Chi‐Sheng , Lee Bih‐O , Bai Yu‐Ling , Hung Chang‐Chiao
Published: April 2014

Purpose

To fill out the gaps in the existing research on the early recovery experiences of patients who have suffered moderate to severe injuries.

Design

Exploratory phenomenology was applied in this study.

Methods

Data were collected at a hospital in Taiwan from a purposive sample of 14 participants who were interviewed before hospital discharge. Semi‐structured and audio‐taped interviews were conducted. Colaizzi's methods were applied to analyze data. Four criteria were applied to establish the rigors of this study.

Findings

The patients expressed that during the early stages following their injury, several aspects of the traumatic event caused them concern. Six themes were delineated: “experience of acute pain after the injury,” “inability to fulfill daily needs,” “concerns with impacts caused by the injury,” “perceiving that time is needed to recover,” “applying multiple methods to restore one's health,” and “perceiving fate as the cause of the accident.”

Conclusions

The findings identify that injuries bring several problems for patients. Some culture‐related issues such as Chinese diets, Chinese medicine, and karmic causation have emerged. Clinicians should better understand patient care needs in the early stages of recovery after an injury.

Clinical Relevance

Findings from this study could lead to new interventions, and finally improve care outcomes for patients with injuries.
Wildcat population density on theEtna volcano,Italy: a comparison of density estimation methods
Authors: Anile S. , Ragni B. , Randi E. , Mattucci F. , Rovero F.
Published: April 2014

TheEuropean wildcat is an elusive felid that is declining across its range.Sicily hosts a distinctive insular wildcat population, the conservation of which requires much better ecological knowledge than is currently available, particularly population density. We simultaneously used two noninvasive methods (camera‐trapping and scat‐collection) to estimate the population density of wildcats on theEtna volcano. We conducted genetic analyses to identify individuals and to detect potential hybridization with the domestic cat. We analyzed individual capture‐histories from camera‐trapping and scat‐collection using the spatially explicit capture‐recapture (SECR) model. Furthermore, we applied the random encounter model (REM), which does not require individual identification, to the camera‐trapping data. We identified 14 wildcats from 70 photographic detections (6.48 detections/100 trap‐days) obtained from 1080 camera‐trapping days over 4 months, and we estimated to have identified all the individuals living in the study area (10.9 km−2). On the contrary, we identified 10 wildcats from 14 out of 39 scats collected from 391 km of transects walked. The estimated densities (individuals km−2 ± se) were 0.32 ± 0.1 (SECRcamera‐trapping), 1.36 ± 0.73 (SECRscat‐collection) and 0.39 ± 0.03 (REM). The population density estimates obtained fromSECRcamera‐trapping andREMoverlapped, although we recommend care when applying the latter. TheSECRscat‐collection gave the highest population density (and less precise) estimates because of the low number of capture and recaptures; however, the population size estimated with this method matched the number of individuals photographed. The population density of the wildcat inEtna falls in the medium‐high range of those reported in literature, highlighting the role of this ecosystem for the long‐term conservation of the wildcat inSicily. Camera‐trapping is confirmed as a useful tool to assess the wildcat population density and, in this case, was complemented by the genetic analysis that confirmed individual identity.
Barriers to care and treatment for patients with chronic viral hepatitis in Europe: a systematic review
Authors: Papatheodoridis George V. , Tsochatzis Emmanuel , Hardtke Svenja , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: April 2014

Background & Aims

Despite the availability of effective therapies for hepatitis B (HBV) and C virus (HCV), only a minority of these patients receive treatment. We systematically reviewed published data on barriers to management for chronic HBV/HCV patients in Europe.

Methods

Literature search to identify studies including adult patients with chronic HBV/HCV infection from European countries and data on barriers to treatment.

Results

Twenty‐five studies including 6253 chronic HBV and 19 014 HCV patients were identified, of which only two were from Eastern Europe. The mean rate of no treatment in HBV patients was 42% being higher in North‐Western European countries than Italy (56% vs. 39%, P < 0.001). Immigrants represented the most common barrier to HBV treatment. The mean rate of no treatment in HCV RNA‐positive patients was 57%, being highest in Romania (89%), intermediate in France (79%) and lower though still high in other European countries (52%, P < 0.001). The predominant barriers to HCV treatment were lack of financial resources in Romania and direct/indirect limitations of interferon‐alfa and/or parenteral drug and alcohol abuse in other countries. The mean rate of no treatment was highest in HCV RNA‐positive parenteral drug users (72%) and intermediate in those with HCV–HIV co‐infection (64%).

Conclusions

A substantial proportion of diagnosed chronic HBV and the majority of diagnosed HCV patients remain untreated. The rates and most importantly the reasons of barriers to treatment in chronic HBV/HCV patients vary widely among European countries supporting the need for country‐specific national strategies, resource allocation and implementation of global management policies.
VSL#3 probiotic treatment decreases bacterial translocation in rats with carbon tetrachloride‐induced cirrhosis
Authors: Sánchez Elisabet , Nieto Juan C. , Boullosa Ana , Vidal Silvia , Sancho Francesc J. , Rossi Giacomo , Sancho‐Bru Pau , Oms Rosa , Mirelis Beatriz , Juárez Cándido , Guarner Carlos , Soriano Germán
Published: April 2014

Background & Aims

Probiotics can prevent pathological bacterial translocation in cirrhosis by modulating intestinal microbiota and improving gut barrier and immune disturbances. To evaluate the effect of probiotic VSL#3 on bacterial translocation, intestinal microbiota, gut barrier and inflammatory response in rats with experimental cirrhosis.

Methods

Forty‐six Sprague‐Dawley rats with CCl4‐induced cirrhosis were randomized into two groups: VSL#3 group (n = 22) that received VSL#3 in drinking water, and water group (n = 24) that received water only. Treatment began at week 6 of cirrhosis induction and continued until laparotomy, performed 1 week after development of ascites or at week 20. A control group included 11 healthy rats. At this study end, we evaluated bacterial translocation, intestinal flora, intestinal barrier (ileal claudin‐2 and 4, β‐defensin‐1, occludin and malondialdehyde as index of oxidative damage) and serum cytokines.

Results

Mortality during this study was similar in the VSL#3 group (10/22, 45%) and the water group (10/24, 42%) (P = 1). The incidence of bacterial translocation was 1/12 (8%) in the VSL#3 group, 7/14 (50%) in the water group (P = 0.03 vs. VSL#3 group) and 0/11 in the control group (P = 0.008 vs. water group). The concentration of ileal and caecal enterobacteria and enterococci was similar in the two groups of cirrhotic rats. The ileal occludin concentration was higher and ileal malondialdehyde and serum levels of TNF‐α were lower in the VSL#3 group than in the water group (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

VSL#3 decreases bacterial translocation, the pro‐inflammatory state and ileal oxidative damage and increases ileal occludin expression in rats with experimental cirrhosis.
The pan‐caspase inhibitor Emricasan (IDN‐6556) decreases liver injury and fibrosis in a murine model of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis
Authors: Barreyro Fernando J. , Holod Silvia , Finocchietto Paola V. , Camino Alejandra M. , Aquino Jorge B. , Avagnina Alejandra , Carreras María C. , Poderoso Juan J. , Gores Gregory J.
Published: April 2014

Background & Aims

Hepatocyte apoptosis, the hallmark of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) contributes to liver injury and fibrosis. Although, both the intrinsic and extrinsic apoptotic pathways are involved in the pathogenesis ofNASH, the final common step of apoptosis is executed by a family of cysteine‐proteases termed caspases. Thus, our aim was to ascertain if administration of Emricasan, a pan‐caspase inhibitor, ameliorates liver injury and fibrosis in a murine model ofNASH.

Methods

C57/BL6J‐mice were fed regular chow or high fat diet (HFD) for 20 weeks. All mice were treated with vehicle or Emricasan.

Results

Mice fed a HFD diet demonstrate a five‐fold increase in hepatocyte apoptosis by the TUNEL assay and a 1.5‐fold and 1.3‐fold increase in caspase‐3 and‐8 activities respectively; this increase in apoptosis was substantially attenuated in mice fed a HFD treated with Emricasan (HFD‐Em). Likewise, liver injury and inflammation were reduced in mice fed HFD‐Em as compare to HFD by measuring serum aspartate aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase levels, NAS histological score and IL 1‐β, TNF‐α, monocyte chemoattractant protein (MCP‐1) and C‐X‐C chemokine ligand‐2 (CXCL2) quantitative reverse‐transcription polymerase chain reaction (qPCR). These differences could not be attributed to differences in hepatic steatosis as liver triglycerides content were similar in both HFD groups. Hepatic fibrosis was reduced by Emricasan in HFD animals by decreasing αSMA (a marker for hepatic stellate cell activation), fibrosis score, Sirius red staining, hydroxyproline liver content and profibrogenic cytokines by qPCR.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these data demonstrate that in a murine model ofNASH, liver injury and fibrosis are suppressed by inhibiting hepatocytes apoptosis and suggests that Emricasan may be an attractive antifibrotic therapy inNASH.
Transient depletion of specific immune cell populations to improve adenovirus‐mediated transgene expression in the liver
Authors: Alzuguren Pilar , Hervas‐Stubbs Sandra , Gonzalez‐Aseguinolaza Gloria , Poutou Joanna , Fortes Puri , Mancheno Uxua , Bunuales Maria , Olagüe Cristina , Razquin Nerea , Van Rooijen Nico , Enguita Monica , Hernandez‐Alcoceba Ruben
Published: April 2014

Background & Aims

Adenoviral (Ad) vectors are currently one of the most efficient tools for in vivo gene transfer to the liver. However, anti‐Ad immune responses limit the safety and efficacy of these vectors. The initial inflammatory reaction is a concern in terms of toxicity, and it favours the development of cellular and humoral responses leading to short transgene persistence and inefficient vector re‐administrations. Therefore, safe and simple ways to interfere with these processes are needed. Study ways to deplete specific immune cell populations and their impact on liver‐directed gene transfer.

Methods

First‐generation Ad vectors encoding reporter genes (luciferase or β‐galactosidase) were injected intravenously into Balb/c mice. Kupffer cells and splenic macrophages were depleted by intravenous administration of clodronate liposomes. B lymphocytes, CD4+, CD8+ T lymphocytes or NK cells were depleted by intraperitoneal injection of anti‐M plus anti‐D, anti‐CD4, anti‐CD8 or anti‐asialo‐GM1 antibodies respectively. Long‐term evolution of luciferase expression in the liver was monitored by bioluminescence imaging.

Results

The anti‐CD4 monoclonal antibody impaired cellular and humoral immune responses, leading to efficient vector re‐administration. Clodronate liposomes had no impact on humoral responses but caused a 100–1000 fold increase in liver transduction, stabilized transgene expression, reduced the concentration of inflammatory cytokines, and inhibited lymphocyte activation.

Conclusions

Transient CD4+ T‐cell depletion using antibodies is a clinically feasible procedure that allows efficient Ad redosing. Systemic administration of clodronate liposomes may further increase the safety and efficacy of vectors.
Yttrium‐90 radioembolization vs sorafenib for intermediate‐locally advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: a cohort study with propensity score analysis
Authors: Gramenzi Annagiulia , Golfieri Rita , Mosconi Cristina , Cappelli Alberta , Granito Alessandro , Cucchetti Alessandro , Marinelli Sara , Pettinato Cinzia , Erroi Virginia , Fiumana Silvia , Bolondi Luigi , Bernardi Mauro , Trevisani Franco ,   BLOG (Bologna Liver Oncology Group)
Published: April 2014

Background & Aims

Sorafenib and transarterial 90Y‐radioembolization (TARE) are possible treatments for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) intermediate‐advanced stage hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). No study directly comparing sorafenib and TARE is currently available. This single‐centre retrospective study compares the outcomes achieved with sorafenib and TARE in HCC patients potentially amenable to either therapy.

Methods

Seventy‐four sorafenib (71 ± 10 years, male 87%, BCLC B/C 53%/47%) and 63 TARE HCC patients (66 ± 9 years, male 79%, BCLC B/C 41%/59%) were included based on the following criteria: Child–Pugh class A/B, performance status ≤1, HCC unfit for other effective therapies, no metastases and no previous systemic chemotherapy.

Results

Median overall survivals of the two groups were comparable, being 14.4 months (95% CI: 4.3–24.5) in sorafenib and 13.2 months (95% CI: 6.1–20.2) in TARE patients, with 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐year survival rates of 52.1%, 29.3% and 14.7% vs 51.8%, 27.8% and 21.6% respectively. Two TARE patients underwent liver transplantation after successful down‐staging. To minimize the impact of confounding factors on survival analysis, propensity model matched 32 patients of each group for median age, tumour gross pathology and the independent prognostic factors (portal vein thrombosis, performance status, Model for End Liver Disease). Even after matching, the median survival did not differ between sorafenib (13.1 months; 95% CI: 1.2–25.9) and TARE patients (11.2 months; 95% CI: 6.7–15.7), with comparable 1‐, 2‐ and 3‐year survival rates.

Conclusions

In cirrhotic patients with intermediate‐advanced or not‐otherwise‐treatable HCC, sorafenib and TARE provide similar survivals. Down‐staging allowing liver transplantation only occurred after TARE.
Complicit in Their Own Demise?
Authors: Parks Gregory S. , Ray Rashawn , Jones Shayne E. , Hughey Matthew W.
Published: April 2014

Violent hazing has been a longstanding issue within African American, collegiate fraternities and sororities, otherwise known as black Greek‐letter organizations (BGLOs). This article investigates how and what hazing victims know about their hazing experiences. Additionally, the article examines how victims' knowledge of hazing may hold serious implications for tort defense doctrines like assumption of risk and comparative fault. Specifically, the authors conduct two studies—one quantitative and the other qualitative—to find that not only are BGLO pledges aware that their pledge experiences are likely to involve mental and physical hazing, but that they believe such experiences will likely continue throughout the entirety of their induction process. Moreover, appreciation for hazing experiences is often captured in the fraternal chants, greetings, and songs they learn or create, which together reflects some understanding of danger and risk. The authors contend that these elements of black “Greek” hazing culture may serve as evidence of assumption of risk or comparative fault.
Natural selection and the genetic basis of osmoregulation in heteromyid rodents as revealed byRNA‐seq
Authors: Marra Nicholas J. , Romero Andrea , DeWoody J. Andrew
Published: April 2014

One adaptation of ecological and evolutionary interest is the extraordinary ability of desert rodents to retain water during waste production. Much is known regarding the unique kidney physiology of kangaroo rats (Dipodomysspp.) and their ability to retain water during waste production, yet the genetic basis of these physiological adaptations is relatively unknown. Herein, we utilizedRNA‐seq data to conduct a comparative study to identify osmoregulatory genes expressed in heteromyid rodents. We sequenced kidney tissue from two temperate desert species (Dipodomys spectabilisandChaetodipus baileyi) from two separate subfamilies of theHeteromyidae and compared these transcriptomes to a tropical mesic species (Heteromys desmarestianus) from a third subfamily. The evolutionary history of these subfamilies provided a robust phylogenetic control that allowed us to separate shared evolutionary history from convergence. Using two methods to detect differential expression (DE), we identified 1890 genes that showed consistent patterns ofDEbetween the arid and mesic species. A three‐species reciprocalBLASTanalysis revealed 3511 sets of putative orthologues that, upon comparison to knownMus musculussequences, revealed 323 annotated and full‐length genic regions. Selection tests displayed evidence of positive selection (dn/ds > 1) on six genes in the two desert species and remained significant for one of these genes after correction for multiple testing. Thus, our data suggest that both the coding sequence and expression of genes have been shaped by natural selection to provide the genetic architecture for efficient osmoregulation in desert‐adapted heteromyid rodents.
A conserved and essential basic region mediates tRNA binding to the Elp1 subunit of the Saccharomyces cerevisiae Elongator complex
Authors: Di Santo Rachael , Bandau Susanne , Stark Michael J. R.
Published: April 2014

Elongator is a conserved, multi‐protein complex discovered in Saccharomyces cerevisiae, loss of which confers a range of pleiotropic phenotypes. Elongator in higher eukaryotes is required for normal growth and development and a mutation in the largest subunit of human Elongator (Elp1) causes familial dysautonomia, a severe recessive neuropathy. Elongator promotes addition of mcm5 and ncm5 modifications to uridine in the tRNA anticodon ‘wobble’ position in both yeast and higher eukaryotes. Since these modifications are required for the tRNAs to function efficiently, a translation defect caused by hypomodified tRNAs may therefore underlie the variety of phenotypes associated with Elongator dysfunction. The Elp1 carboxy‐terminal domain contains a highly conserved arginine/lysine‐rich region that resembles a nuclear localization sequence (NLS). Using alanine substitution mutagenesis, we show that this region is essential for Elongator's function in tRNA wobble uridine modification. However, rather than acting to determine the nucleo‐cytoplasmic distribution of Elongator, we find that the basic region plays a critical role in a novel interaction between tRNA and the Elp1 carboxy‐terminal domain. Thus the conserved basic region in Elp1 may be essential for tRNA wobble uridine modification by acting as tRNA binding motif.
The relationship of the lipoprotein SsaB, manganese and superoxide dismutase in Streptococcus sanguinis virulence for endocarditis
Authors: Crump Katie E. , Bainbridge Brian , Brusko Sarah , Turner Lauren S. , Ge Xiuchun , Stone Victoria , Xu Ping , Kitten Todd
Published: April 2014

Streptococcus sanguinis colonizes teeth and is an important cause of infective endocarditis. Our prior work showed that the lipoprotein SsaB is critical for S. sanguinis virulence for endocarditis and belongs to the LraI family of conserved metal transporters. In this study, we demonstrated that an ssaB mutant accumulates less manganese and iron than its parent. A mutant lacking the manganese‐dependent superoxide dismutase, SodA, was significantly less virulent than wild‐type in a rabbit model of endocarditis, but significantly more virulent than the ssaB mutant. Neither the ssaB nor the sodA mutation affected sensitivity to phagocytic killing or efficiency of heart valve colonization. Animal virulence results for all strains could be reproduced by growing bacteria in serum under physiological levels of O2. SodA activity was reduced, but not eliminated in the ssaB mutant in serum and in rabbits. Growth of the ssaB mutant in serum was restored upon addition of Mn2+ or removal of O2. Antioxidant supplementation experiments suggested that superoxide and hydroxyl radicals were together responsible for the ssaB mutant's growth defect. We conclude that manganese accumulation mediated by the SsaB transport system imparts virulence by enabling cell growth in oxygen through SodA‐dependent and independent mechanisms.
The role of pain modulators in esophageal disorders – no pain no gain
Authors: Dickman R. , Maradey‐Romero C. , Fass R.
Published: April 2014

Pain modulators have been primarily used for the management of functional esophageal disorders. Recently, these drugs have also been used for the management of other esophageal disorders, such as non‐erosive reflux disease, the hypersensitive esophagus, and heartburn that is not responsive to proton pump inhibitor treatment. Several etiologies have been identified in patients with functional esophageal disorders, and these include esophageal hypersensitivity due to peripheral and/or central sensitisation, altered central processing of peripheral stimuli, altered autonomic activity, and psychological comorbidity such as depression and anxiety. Different antidepressants have been used as pain modulators and have demonstrated a beneficial effect on patients with the aforementioned esophageal disorders. Tricyclic antidepressants are the most commonly used class of drugs in clinical practice. Other antidepressants that have been used, some with more clinical success than others, include selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors, serotonin‐norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors, and trazodone. Other medications that have been used as pain modulators in esophageal disorders include adenosine antagonists, serotonin agonists, antiepileptics, and medications that ameliorate peripheral neuropathy. The mechanism by which many of the pain modulators confer their visceral analgesic effect remains to be fully elucidated. Regardless, their role and value in treating esophageal disorders have markedly increased in the last decade.
Genome‐wide association implicates numerous genes underlying ecological trait variation in natural populations of Populus trichocarpa
Authors: McKown Athena D. , Klápště Jaroslav , Guy Robert D. , Geraldes Armando , Porth Ilga , Hannemann Jan , Friedmann Michael , Muchero Wellington , Tuskan Gerald A. , Ehlting Jürgen , Cronk Quentin C. B. , El‐Kassaby Yousry A. , Mansfield Shawn D. , Douglas Carl J.
Published: April 2014

In order to uncover the genetic basis of phenotypic trait variation, we used 448 unrelated wild accessions of black cottonwood (Populus trichocarpa) from much of its range in western North America. Extensive data from large‐scale trait phenotyping (with spatial and temporal replications within a common garden) and genotyping (with a 34 K Populus single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) array) of all accessions were used for gene discovery in a genome‐wide association study (GWAS).

We performed GWAS with 40 biomass, ecophysiology and phenology traits and 29 355 filtered SNPs representing 3518 genes. The association analyses were carried out using a Unified Mixed Model accounting for population structure effects among accessions.

We uncovered 410 significant SNPs using a Bonferroni‐corrected threshold (P < 1.7 × 10−6). Markers were found across 19 chromosomes, explained 1–13% of trait variation, and implicated 275 unique genes in trait associations. Phenology had the largest number of associated genes (240 genes), followed by biomass (53 genes) and ecophysiology traits (25 genes).

The GWAS results propose numerous loci for further investigation. Many traits had significant associations with multiple genes, underscoring their genetic complexity. Genes were also identified with multiple trait associations within and/or across trait categories. In some cases, traits were genetically correlated while in others they were not.
AP1S1 defect causing MEDNIK syndrome: a new adaptinopathy associated with defective copper metabolism
Authors: Martinelli Diego , Dionisi‐Vici Carlo
Published: April 2014

MEDNIK (mental retardation, enteropathy, deafness, neuropathy, ichthyosis, and keratodermia) syndrome has been recently described as a new disorder of copper metabolism. This multisystem disease combines clinical and biochemical signs of both Menkes and Wilson's diseases, in which liver copper overload is treatable using zinc acetate therapy. MEDNIK syndrome is caused by mutation of the AP1S1 gene, which codes for the σ1A subunit of adaptor protein complex 1, and directs intracellular trafficking of copper pumps ATP7A and ATP7B. Adaptor protein complexes regulate clathrin‐coated vesicle assembly, protein cargo sorting, and vesicular trafficking between organelles in eukaryotic cells. A growing number of diseases have been associated with mutations in genes coding for adaptor protein complexes subunits and we propose for them the term adaptinopathies, as a new organic category of disorders of intracellular trafficking, which offers the opportunity to dissect the mechanisms involved in the crosstalk between the Golgi apparatus and the other organelles.
ATP7A trafficking and mechanisms underlying the distal motor neuropathy induced by mutations in ATP7A
Authors: Yi Ling , Kaler Stephen
Published: April 2014

Diverse mutations in the gene encoding the copper transporter ATP7A lead to X‐linked recessive Menkes disease or occipital horn syndrome. Recently, two unique ATP7A missense mutations, T994I and P1386S, were shown to cause isolated adult‐onset distal motor neuropathy. These mutations induce subtle defects in ATP7A intracellular trafficking resulting in preferential accumulation at the plasma membrane compared to wild‐type ATP7A. Immunoprecipitation assays revealed abnormal interaction between ATP7AT994I and p97/VCP, a protein mutated in two autosomal dominant forms of motor neuron disease. Small‐interfering RNA knockdown of valosin‐containing protein corrected ATP7AT994I mislocalization. For ATP7AP1386S, flow cytometry documented that nonpermeabilized fibroblasts bound a C‐terminal ATP7A antibody, suggesting unstable insertion of the eighth transmembrane segment due to a helix‐breaker effect of the amino acid substitution. This could sabotage interaction of ATP7AP1386S with adaptor protein complexes. These molecular events appear to selectively disturb normal motor neuron function and lead to neurologic illness that takes years and sometimes decades to develop.
Saliva as a potential tool for diagnosis of dry mouth including Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Ohyama K , Moriyama M , Hayashida J‐N , Tanaka A , Maehara T , Ieda S , Furukawa S , Ohta M , Imabayashi Y , Nakamura S
Published: April 2014

Objectives

Recently, the use of saliva as a diagnostic tool has gained considerable attention because it is non‐invasive and easy to perform repeatedly. In this study, we focused on soluble molecules in saliva to establish a new diagnostic method for xerostomia.

Materials and Methods

Saliva was obtained from 90 patients with Sjögren's syndrome (SS), 22 patients with xerostomia associated with neurogenic/neuropsychiatric disorders and drugs (XND), 30 patients with radiation‐induced xerostomia (RX), and 36 healthy controls. Concentrations of helper T (Th) cytokines in saliva were measured by flow cytometric analysis. Concentrations of secretory IgA (SIgA) and chromogranin A (CgA) were measured by ELISA.

Results

Unstimulated and stimulated whole saliva from patients with SS, XND, and RX was significantly reduced compared with controls. Th1 and Th2 cytokines from SS patients were significantly higher than controls. Furthermore, Th2 cytokines were closely associated with strong lymphocytic accumulation in salivary glands from SS patients, while Th1 and Th17 cytokines were negatively associated. SIgA levels were not significantly different between all patient groups and controls. CgA levels from XND patients were significantly higher than controls.

Conclusions

The measurement of cytokines, CgA, and SIgA in saliva is suggested to be useful for the diagnosis of xerostomia and also to reveal disease status.
Lowe's Argument Against the Psychoneural Token Identity Thesis
Authors: Paprzycka Katarzyna
Published: April 2014

E. J. Lowe argues that the mental event token cannot be identical to the complex neural event token for they have different counterfactual properties. If the mental event had not occurred, the behavior would not have ensued, while if the neural event had not occurred, the behavior would have ensued albeit slightly differently. Lowe's argument for the neural counterfactual relies on standard possible world semantics, whose evaluation of such counterfactuals is problematic. His argument for the mental counterfactual relies on a premise that is plausibly false. My arguments support other counterfactuals, which are consistent with identity theories.
Cinematic magnetic resonance enterography for non‐organic abdominal pain in infants and children
Authors: Watanabe Yoshio , Takasu Hidemi , Sumida Wataru , Ohshima Kazuo
Published: April 2014

Background

Recurrent non‐organic abdominal pain is the most commonly diagnosed medical problem in children. However, excluding small bowel disease remains a challenge. We evaluated our exclusion criteria for organic small intestinal diseases in pediatric patients with recurrent non‐organic abdominal pain using cinematic magnetic resonance (cine‐MR) enterography.

Methods

The non‐intestinal organic (non‐IO) group as classified by the Rome III criteria system and the intestinal organic (IO) group consisted of 81 and 19 patients, with 35 and 12 male and 46 and 7 female patients with an age range of 5–18 and 4–15 years (average 10.5 and 10.5 years), respectively. Cine‐MR enterography was performed by dynamically balanced first‐field‐echo imaging with thick‐slice water‐selective excitation without breath holding. In our original small intestinal motility test, cine‐MR enterography was taken at three different times (fasting state [P1], immediately after [P2] and 30 min after [P3] drinking liquid material), with images taken sequentially for 5 min at each time‐point to evaluate the motion of water in the gastrointestinal tract. Positive findings for organic intestinal problems were concluded when persistent visible intestinal loops appeared in both the P1 and P2 phases.

Results

Cine‐MR enterography showed 6/81 (7.4%) and 18/19 (94.7%) (P < 0.01) positive cases of organic intestinal problems in the non‐IO and IO groups, respectively. Positive and negative predictive values of this examination were 78.3% and 97.4%, respectively.

Conclusions

The unique capabilities of cine‐MR enterography technology in this clinical setting render it an important additional diagnostic tool when specific disease management issues must be addressed.
A multivalent chimeric vaccine composed of Schistosoma mansoni SmTSP‐2 and Sm29 was able to induce protection against infection in mice
Authors: Pinheiro C. S. , Ribeiro A. P. D. , Cardoso F. C. , Martins V. P. , Figueiredo B. C. P. , Assis N. R. G. , Morais S. B. , Caliari M. V. , Loukas A. , Oliveira S. C.
Published: April 2014

Schistosoma mansoni is a blood fluke parasite responsible for schistosomiasis. The best long‐term strategy to control schistosomiasis is through immunization combined with drug treatment. In this study, we cloned, expressed and purified SmTSP‐2 fused to the N‐ and C‐terminal halves of Sm29 and tested these chimeras as vaccine candidates using an adjuvant approved to be used in humans. The results demonstrated that vaccination with SmTSP‐2 fused to N‐ or C‐terminus of Sm29‐induced reduction in worm burden and liver pathology when compared to control animals. Additionally, we detected high levels of mouse‐specific IgG, IgG1 and IgG2a against both chimeras and significant amounts of IFN‐γ and TNF‐α and no IL‐4. Finally, studies with sera from patients resistant to infection and living in schistosomiasis endemic areas revealed high levels of specific IgG to both chimeras when compared to healthy individuals. In conclusion, SmTSP‐2/Sm29 chimeras tested here induced partial protection against infection and might be a potential vaccine candidate.
Effect of salt‐tolerant plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria on wheat plants and soil health in a saline environment
Authors: Upadhyay S. K. , Singh D. P.
Published: April 2014

Salt‐tolerant plant growth‐promoting rhizobacteria (ST‐PGPR) significantly influence the growth and yield of wheat crops in saline soil. Wheat growth improved in pots with inoculation of all nine ST‐PGPR (ECe = 4.3 dS·m−1; greenhouse experiment), while maximum growth and dry biomass was observed in isolate SU18 Arthrobacter sp.; simultaneously, all ST‐PGPR improved soil health in treated pot soil over controls. In the field experiment, maximum wheat root dry weight and shoot biomass was observed after inoculation with SU44 B. aquimaris, and SU8 B. aquimaris, respectively, after 60 and 90 days. Isolate SU8 B. aquimaris, induced significantly higher proline and total soluble sugar accumulation in wheat, while isolate SU44 B. aquimaris, resulted in higher accumulation of reducing sugars after 60 days. Percentage nitrogen (N), potassium (K) and phosphorus (P) in leaves of wheat increased significantly after inoculation with ST‐PGPR, as compared to un‐inoculated plants. Isolate SU47 B. subtilis showed maximum reduction of sodium (Na) content in wheat leaves of about 23% at both 60 and 90 days after sowing, and produced the best yield of around 17.8% more than the control.
Dissecting the mechanism of Solanum lycopersicum and Solanum chilense flower colour formation
Authors: Gao M. , Qu H. , Gao L. , Chen L. , Sebastian R. S. J. , Zhao L.
Published: April 2014

Flowers are the defining feature of angiosperms, and function as indispensable organs for sexual reproduction. Flower colour typically plays an important role in attracting pollinators, and can show considerable variation, even between closely related species. For example, domesticated tomato (S. lycopersicum) has orange/yellow flowers, while the wild relative S. chilense (accession LA2405) has bright yellow flowers. In this study, the mechanism of flower colour formation in these two species was compared by evaluating the accumulation of carotenoids, assessing the expression genes related to carotenoid biosynthetic pathways and observing chromoplast ultrastructure. In S. chilense petals, genes associated with the lutein branch of the carotenoid biosynthetic pathway, phytoene desaturase (PDS), ζ‐carotene desaturase (ZDS), lycopene β‐cyclase (LCY‐B), β‐ring hydroxylase (CRTR‐B) and ε‐ring hydroxylase (CRTR‐E), were highly expressed, and this was correlated with high levels of lutein accumulation. In contrast, PDS, ZDS and CYC‐B from the neoxanthin biosynthetic branch were highly expressed in S. lycopersicum anthers, leading to increased β‐carotene accumulation and hence an orange/yellow colour. Changes in the size, amount and electron density of plastoglobules in chromoplasts provided further evidence of carotenoid accumulation and flower colour formation. Taken together, these results reveal the biochemical basis of differences in carotenoid pigment accumulation and colour between petals and anthers in tomato.
Metapeyssonnelia tangerina (Peyssonneliaceae, Rhodophyta), a new species associated with coral reef habitats in Puerto Rico, Caribbean Sea
Authors: Ballantine David L. , Lozada‐Troche Chad , Ruiz Hector
Published: April 2014

A new Metapeyssonnelia species that comprises up to 7% bottom cover at shallow‐water reef habitats in southwest Puerto Rico is described herein. It forms conspicuous orange encrustations on hard substrata and does not grow on living coral as does its two Caribbean congeners. The new species possesses conspicuous, to 30 cm in extent, tightly adherent crusts up to 950 μm thick, only hypobasal calcification, hypothallial cells arranged in broad flabellules and superficial (raised) tetrasporangial and carposporangial nemathecia. Tetrasporangia are pedicellate, borne laterally from cup‐like cells that are derived from basal paraphysal cells. Tetrasporangia measure up to 120 μm long and individual carposporangia to 80 μm long. The new species differs from other Metapeyssonnelia species developmentally in that perithallial cells at mid thallus height will divide laterally to form a new hypothallium. Small subunit gene sequences relate the new species to the two Metapeyssonnelia species that are previously known from Puerto Rico.
Art Controversy in theObamaWhiteHouse: Performing Tensions of Race in the Visual Politics of the Presidency
Authors: Finnegan Cara A. , Mixon Anita J.
Published: April 2014

In 2009, two works byAfricanAmerican artists selected for display in theWhiteHouse produced controversy among critics of the president. Our analysis explores how media discussion involving aCharlesAlston bust of Dr.MartinLutherKing, Jr., and an abstract painting byAlmaThomas unearthed cultural tensions involving the practice of imitation, the value of presence, and the role of Black art and artists. Such tensions shaped the debate about the art works chosen by theObamas and raised the question of how to define and place a Black president in the first year of his first term.
Speaking at Selma: Presidential Commemoration and Bill Clinton's Problem of Invention
Authors: Beasley Vanessa B.
Published: April 2014

This article explores the multiple challenges President Bill Clinton faced when he spoke in Selma, Alabama, at the thirty‐fifth anniversary commemoration of Bloody Sunday. Given the symbolic weight of Selma within public memory, its centrality within U.S. nationalistic narratives about equality and Clinton's own personal and political persona, the president had to operate within narrow rhetorical parameters on this occasion. His response was to both observe and depart from norms of presidents' commemorative discourse. An analysis of the speech suggests Clinton commemorated Bloody Sunday less than he memorialized the U.S. presidency, invigorating memories of its past and future power.