bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy, safety and usability of secukinumab administration by autoinjector/pen in psoriasis: a randomized, controlled trial (JUNCTURE)
Authors: Paul C. , Lacour J.‐P. , Tedremets L. , Kreutzer K. , Jazayeri S. , Adams S. , Guindon C. , You R. , Papavassilis C. ,   the JUNCTURE study group
Published: September 2014

Background

Secukinumab is a fully human anti–interleukin‐17A monoclonal antibody.

Objective

Determine the efficacy, safety and usability of secukinumab administered via autoinjector/pen.

Methods

This phase III trial randomized subjects with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis to secukinumab 300 mg, 150 mg or placebo self‐injection once weekly to Week 4, then every 4 weeks. Co‐primary end points at Week 12 were ≥75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 75) and clear/almost clear skin by investigator's global assessment 2011 modified version (IGA mod 2011 0/1). Secondary end points included autoinjector usability, assessed by successful, hazard‐free self‐injection and subject‐reported acceptability on Self‐Injection Assessment Questionnaire.

Results

Week 12 PASI 75 and IGA mod 2011 0/1 responses were superior with secukinumab 300 mg (86.7% and 73.3%, respectively) and 150 mg (71.7% and 53.3%, respectively) vs. placebo (3.3% and 0%, respectively) (P < 0.0001 for all). All subjects successfully self‐administered treatment at Week 1, without critical use‐related hazards. Subject acceptability of autoinjector was high throughout 12 weeks. Adverse events were higher with secukinumab (300 mg, 70.0%; 150 mg, 63.9%) vs. placebo (54.1%), with differences largely driven by mild/moderate nasopharyngitis.

Conclusion

Secukinumab delivered by autoinjector/pen is efficacious, well‐tolerated and associated with high usability in moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
Closing The Gap between Two Countries: Feasibility of Dissemination Of An Evidence‐Based Parenting Intervention in México
Authors: Parra‐Cardona José Rubén , Aguilar Parra Elizabeth , Wieling Elizabeth , Domenech Rodríguez Melanie M. , Fitzgerald Hiram E.
Published: September 2014

In this manuscript, we describe the initial steps of an international program of prevention research in Monterrey, México. Specifically, we present a feasibility study focused on exploring the level of acceptability reported by a group of Mexican mothers who were exposed to a culturally adapted parenting intervention originally developed in the United States. The efficacious intervention adapted in this investigation is known as Parent Management Training, the Oregon Model (PMTO®). Following a description of our international partnership, we describe the implementation of the pilot study aimed at determining initial feasibility. Qualitative data provided by 40 Mexican mothers exposed to the culturally adapted parenting intervention illustrate the participants’ high level of receptivity toward the intervention, as well as the beneficial impact on their parenting practices.
Quantitative morphological analysis of curvilinear network for microscopic image based on individual fibre segmentation (IFS)
Authors: QIU J. , LI F.‐F.
Published: September 2014

Microscopic images of curvilinear fibre network structure like cytoskeleton are traditionally analysed by qualitative observation, which can hardly provide quantitative information of their morphological properties. However, such information is crucially contributive to the understanding of important biological events, even helps to learn about the inner relations hard to perceive. Individual fibre segmentation–based curvilinear structure detector proposed in this study can identify each individual fibre in the network, as well as connections between different fibres. Quantitative information of each individual fibre, including length, orientation and position, can be extracted; so are the connecting modes in the fibre network, such as bifurcation, intersection and overlap. Distribution of fibres with different morphological properties is also presented. No manual intervening or subjective judging is required in the analysing process. Both synthesized and experimental microscopic images have verified that the detector is capable to segment curvilinear network at the subcellular level with strong noise immunity. The proposed detector is finally applied to the morphological study on cytoskeleton. It is believed that the individual fibre segmentation–based curvilinear structure detector can greatly enhance our understanding of those biological images generated from tons of biological experiments.
The autoimmune spectrum of myasthenia gravis: a Swedish population‐based study
Authors: Fang F. , Sveinsson O. , Thormar G. , Granqvist M. , Askling J. , Lundberg I. E. , Ye W. , Hammarström L. , Pirskanen R. , Piehl F.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of myasthenia gravis (MG) and the rate of concurrent autoimmune diseases in patients with MG.

Design and setting

Using the Swedish health and population registers, during the period 2005–2010, we conducted a nested case–control study of patients with MG (n = 2045) with five age‐ and sex‐matched population‐based controls per case. Register‐based MG diagnosis was validated against the Stockholm MG Cohort. Similar nested case–control studies were conducted in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS), as a neuroinflammatory disease control, and siblings of patients with MG.

Main outcome measure

Odds ratios (ORs) and their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated as a measure of the association between MG and other autoimmune diseases.

Results

The prevalence of MG was 24.8/100 000, and patients with MG had an increased risk of another autoimmune disease compared to controls (22.0% vs. 8.9%; OR: 2.82, 95% CI: 2.49–3.20); this risk was stronger amongst younger persons and women. Polymyositis/dermatomyositis, systemic lupus erythematosus and Addison's disease, three conditions regulated by the HLA‐B8‐DR3 haplotype, were most strongly associated with MG, especially early‐onset disease. HLA typing in the Stockholm MG Cohort showed that early‐onset MG was indeed dominated by HLA‐B8‐DR3. The risk of another autoimmune disease was increased in both patients with MS and siblings of patients with MG, compared to their respective controls, but to a lesser extent than in patients with MG.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that MG shares risk factors with other autoimmune diseases, to a greater degree than MS, with a particular role of the HLA‐B8‐DR3 haplotype, especially amongst younger and female patients.
Prevalence and distribution of oral mucosal lesions: a cross‐sectional study in Shanghai, China
Authors: Feng Jinqiu , Zhou Zengtong , Shen Xuemin , Wang Yufeng , Shi Linjun , Wang Yijun , Hu Ye , Sun Hongying , Liu Wei
Published: September 2014

Background

An epidemiological study on the oral mucosal lesions (OMLs) in general population from China was scarce. The objective of this study was to investigate the prevalence and distribution of OMLs in Shanghai, China and to evaluate their association with demographic factors and smoking/drinking habits based on a large scaled population on a wide spectrum.

Methods

In this population‐based cross‐sectional study, 11054 community‐dwelling individuals (M/F: 5140/5914; age range, 1–96 years) were randomly selected and examined according to WHO criteria.

Results

The prevalence of OMLs was 10.8% in this study. A total of 1192 (M/F: 543/649; mean age, 56.9 years) individuals were presented with different types of OMLs. The most common type of OMLs was fissured tongue (prevalence of 3.15%), followed by recurrent aphthae (1.48%), traumatic ulcer (1.13%), and angular cheilitis (0.86%). The two most common potentially malignant disorders were oral lichen planus (0.81%) and leukoplakia (0.22%). Regression analysis revealed that the elderly age, smoking, and alcohol intake were statistically significant risk factors of OMLs with emphasis on leukokeratosis, leukoplakia, and lichen planus.

Conclusion

The prevalence and distribution of OMLs were elucidated in an eastern area of China, and the importance of tobacco and alcohol in the pathogenesis of OMLs was evidenced. Our data have provided baseline information about epidemiologic aspects of OMLs that can be valuable in organized program targeting on oral health and hygiene.
Effect of methotrexate upon antigen‐induced arthritis of the rabbit temporomandibular joint
Authors: Rafayelyan Smbat , Meyer Philipp , Radlanski Ralf J. , Minden Kirsten , Jost‐Brinkmann Paul‐Georg , Präger Thomas M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Juvenile idiopathic arthritis (JIA) of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) can cause severe growth disturbances of the craniomandibular system. Antigen‐induced arthritis (AIA) of the rabbit TMJ is simulating the inflammatory process of the TMJ in JIA. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of a systemic administration of methotrexate (MTX) on AIA in rabbits by means of three different histological staining methods.

Methods

After sensitization, a bilateral arthritis of the TMJ was induced by an intra‐articular administration of ovalbumin in 12 New Zealand white rabbits aged 10 weeks. From the 13th week of age, six of the 12 rabbits received weekly intramuscular injections of MTX, and the other six animals remained without therapy. Another six animals served as controls, receiving no treatment or intra‐articular injections at all. After euthanasia at the age of 22 weeks, all TMJs were retrieved en bloc. Sagittal sections were cut and stained with haematoxylin–eosin (H‐E), Safranin‐O for the evaluation of the Mankin score and tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase (TRAP).

Results

In the arthritis group, a chronic inflammation with degeneration of the articular cartilage was visible. In the MTX group, the signs of cartilage degeneration were significantly reduced compared with the arthritis group. In contrast, the joints in the control group were inconspicuous. A correlation between the Mankin score and TRAP‐positive cells could be found.

Conclusions

Systemic administration of MTX seems to have a positive effect upon the inflammatory process in the rabbit TMJ but fails to eliminate the sign of arthritis completely.
The effects of the supplementation of Bacillus subtilis RX7 and B2A strains on the performance, blood profiles, intestinal Salmonella concentration, noxious gas emission, organ weight and breast meat quality of broiler challenged with Salmonella typhimurium
Authors: Park J. H. , Kim I. H.
Published: September 2014

An experiment was conducted to evaluate the effects of B. subtilis RX7 and B. subtilis B2A on growth performance, blood profiles, intestinal Salmonella population, noxious gas emission, organ weight and breast meat quality of broilers under S. typhimurium challenge. A total of 120, one‐day‐old Ross 308 male broiler chicks were assigned to four dietary treatments, composed of six replications, with five birds per replication, for 10 day. The dietary treatment groups were negative control (NC; no antibiotic, no B. subtilis), positive control (PC; NC + 0.1% virginiamycin), B. subtilis RX7 (NC + 0.1% B. subtilis RX7 1.0 × 109 cfu/g) and B. subtilis B2A (NC + 0.1% B. subtilis 1.0 × 109 cfu/g). All birds were orally challenged with 2 ml suspension, containing 104 cfu/ml of S. typhimurium KCCM 40253. Results indicated that the body weight gain, feed intake and feed conversion did not differ, among all comparative treatments. Serum haptoglobin concentration was lower in Bacillus treatments (RX7 + B2A) than the NC treatment (p < 0.05). Intestinal and excreta Salmonella number, and excreta ammonia gas emission in the PC treatment or Bacillus treatments, was lower than the NC treatment (p < 0.05). Breast pH, colour and water‐holding capacity were not affected by supplementation of B. subtilis RX7 and B2A. However, drip loss at 1 day post‐slaughter from birds fed with B. subtilis RX7 and B2A decreased, compared with the positive control birds (p < 0.05). Relative gizzard weights of birds fed B. subtilis RX7 and B2A were significantly higher than the NC birds under S. typhimurium challenge. It is concluded from the results that B. subtilis RX7 and B2A increased the gizzard weight and decreased the intestinal and excreta Salmonella population and excreta ammonia gas, and drip loss of breast meat after being stored for 1 day, under stress caused by the S. typhimurium challenge.
Bladder Base Tenderness in the Etiology of Deep Dyspareunia
Authors: Nourmoussavi Melica , Bodmer-Roy Sonja , Mui Justin , Mawji Narissa , Williams Christina , Allaire Catherine , Yong Paul J.
Published: September 2014

Introduction

Bladder base tenderness can be present on pelvic exam in women with pelvic pain. However, its exact prevalence and clinical implications are not well understood.

Aim

The aim of this study was to determine whether bladder base tenderness is associated with specific symptoms or signs in women, particularly dyspareunia.

Methods

Retrospective review of 189 consecutive women seen by a gynecologist in 2012 at a tertiary referral center for pelvic pain was conducted. Associations were tested between bladder base tenderness and variables on history/examination using bivariate analyses and multiple logistic regression.

Main Outcome Measure

Deep dyspareunia and superficial dyspareunia (present/absent) were the main outcome measures.

Results

Bladder base tenderness was present in 34% of pelvic pain patients (65/189), which was significantly greater than the prevalence of bladder base tenderness of 3% (1/32) in a control sample of women without pelvic pain (odds ratio [OR] = 16.3, 95% confidence interval [CI] 2.17–121.7, Fisher exact test, P < 0.001). For the pelvic pain patients, on bivariate analyses, bladder base tenderness was significantly associated with deep dyspareunia (P < 0.001), superficial dyspareunia (P < 0.001), bladder symptoms (P = 0.026), abdominal wall trigger point (P < 0.001), and pelvic floor tenderness (P < 0.001). In contrast, bladder base tenderness was similarly present in women with or without endometriosis. On logistic regression, bladder base tenderness was independently associated with only deep dyspareunia (OR = 6.40, 95% CI: 1.25–32.7, P = 0.011), abdominal wall trigger point (OR = 3.44, 95% CI: 1.01–11.7, P = 0.037), and pelvic floor tenderness (OR = 8.22, 95% CI: 3.27–20.7, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

Bladder base tenderness is present in one-third of women with pelvic pain, and contributes specifically to the symptom of deep dyspareunia. Bladder base tenderness was also associated with the presence of an abdominal wall trigger point and with pelvic floor tenderness, suggesting a myofascial etiology and/or nervous system sensitization.
Understanding nesting ecology and behaviour of green marine turtles at Setiu, Terengganu, Malaysia
Authors: Abd Mutalib Aini Hasanah , Fadzly Nik , Ahmad Amirrudin , Nasir Nurolhuda
Published: September 2014

In this paper, we emphasize the importance of understanding the nesting ecology and nesting behaviour of green marine turtles (Chelonia mydas). Data were collected from 2007 until 2012 from nesting beaches at Setiu Terengganu, Malaysia. We focused on one of the beaches, Telaga Papan, based on data collected in 2012. We recorded the distribution of nesting areas, the emergence hour and the correlation between successful nesting attempts and false crawls. Telaga Papan had a significantly higher distribution of green marine turtle nesting compared with the other five beaches (ANOVA, F5,42 = 8.874, P < 0.01, mean = 36.750 ± 3.727). The highest number of successful nesting attempts was recorded in 2012 (mean = 28.714). A majority of the species landed between 22:00 and 23:59 h (25%). There was a strong correlation between successful nesting attempts and false crawls (rs = 0.883, P = 0.02). Based on these findings on the nesting ecology and nesting behaviour of green marine turtles, we suggest that scientific research, strict monitoring, awareness programs and policy implementation should be carried out proactively. Such activities are necessary to reduce the anthropogenic pressures at the nesting beaches as well as to ensure more successful nesting attempts of green marine turtles in Setiu.
Settlement and colonization of epi‐endobenthic communities on calcareous substrata in an underwater archaeological site
Authors: Casoli Edoardo , Ricci Sandra , Belluscio Andrea , Gravina Maria Flavia , Ardizzone Giandomenico
Published: September 2014

Underwater archaeological sites represent assets of great value that are subjected to physical and biological stresses. The study of biological settlement on calcareous substrata is the first step to understanding the biodeterioration processes that take place on man‐made structures (marble, statues, columns and other architectonic elements) in marine environments. To accomplish this objective, calcareous panels (30 × 30 × 2 cm) were immersed for 3, 6, 9 and 12 months along a north−south transect in marine protected areas of Baia (Naples). Both epilithic and endolithic assemblages were analysed: the latter was observed by scanning electron microscope after the cast‐embedding technique had been used. After 1 year the epilithic community was still changing, with algae and pioneer species overgrown by encrusting organisms, and the endolithic assemblage dominated by cyanobacteria/chlorophyte traces. Changes of epilithics lead changes on endolithics. The initial phototrophic borers were replaced by more sciophilous and competitive species; moreover, the first macroboring organisms arrived after the settlement of grazers. After 12 months of immersion, the rate of bioerosion was high, the material was deeply bored and all of the limestone surface was heavily covered.
A quantitative review of MHC‐based mating preference: the role of diversity and dissimilarity
Authors: Kamiya T. , O'Dwyer K. , Westerdahl H. , Senior A. , Nakagawa S.
Published: September 2014

Sexual selection hypotheses stipulate that the major histocompatibility complex genes (MHC) constitute a key molecular underpinning for mate choice in vertebrates. The last four decades saw growing empirical literature on the role of MHC diversity and dissimilarity in mate choice for a wide range of vertebrate animals, but with mixed support for its significance in natural populations. Using formal phylogenetic meta‐analysis and meta‐regression techniques, we quantitatively review the existing literature on MHC‐dependent mating preferences in nonhuman vertebrates with a focus on the role of MHC diversity and dissimilarity. Overall, we found small, statistically nonsignificant, average effect sizes for both diversity‐ and dissimilarity‐based mate choice (r = 0.113 and 0.064, respectively). Importantly, however, meta‐regression models revealed statistically significant support regarding female choice for diversity, and choice for dissimilarity (regardless of choosy sex) only when dissimilarity is characterized across multiple loci. Little difference was found among vertebrate taxa; however, the lack of statistical power meant statistically significant effects were limited to some taxa. We found little sign of publication bias; thus, our results are likely to be robust. In light of our quantitative assessment, methodological improvements and fruitful future avenues of research are highlighted.
Blacktip reef sharks, Carcharhinus melanopterus, have high genetic structure and varying demographic histories in their Indo‐Pacific range
Authors: Vignaud Thomas M. , Mourier Johann , Maynard Jeffrey A. , Leblois Raphael , Spaet Julia L.Y. , Clua Eric , Neglia Valentina , Planes Serge
Published: September 2014

For free‐swimming marine species like sharks, only population genetics and demographic history analyses can be used to assess population health/status as baseline population numbers are usually unknown. We investigated the population genetics of blacktip reef sharks, Carcharhinus melanopterus; one of the most abundant reef‐associated sharks and the apex predator of many shallow water reefs of the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Our sampling includes 4 widely separated locations in the Indo‐Pacific and 11 islands in French Polynesia with different levels of coastal development. Four‐teen microsatellite loci were analysed for samples from all locations and two mitochondrial DNA fragments, the control region and cytochrome b, were examined for 10 locations. For microsatellites, genetic diversity is higher for the locations in the large open systems of the Red Sea and Australia than for the fragmented habitat of the smaller islands of French Polynesia. Strong significant structure was found for distant locations with FST values as high as ~0.3, and a smaller but still significant structure is found within French Polynesia. Both mitochondrial genes show only a few mutations across the sequences with a dominant shared haplotype in French Polynesia and New Caledonia suggesting a common lineage different to that of East Australia. Demographic history analyses indicate population expansions in the Red Sea and Australia that may coincide with sea level changes after climatic events. Expansions and flat signals are indicated for French Polynesia as well as a significant recent bottleneck for Moorea, the most human‐impacted lagoon of the locations in French Polynesia.
Impact of osmotic stress on protein diffusion in Lactococcus lactis
Authors: Mika Jacek T. , Schavemaker Paul E. , Krasnikov Victor , Poolman Bert
Published: September 2014

We measured translational diffusion of proteins in the cytoplasm and plasma membrane of the Gram‐positive bacterium Lactococcus lactis and probed the effect of osmotic upshift. For cells in standard growth medium the diffusion coefficients for cytosolic proteins (27 and 582 kDa) and 12‐transmembrane helix membrane proteins are similar to those in Escherichia coli. The translational diffusion of GFP in L. lactis drops by two orders of magnitude when the medium osmolality is increased by ∼ 1.9 Osm, and the decrease in mobility is partly reversed in the presence of osmoprotectants. We find a large spread in diffusion coefficients over the full population of cells but a smaller spread if only sister cells are compared. While in general the diffusion coefficients we measure under normal osmotic conditions in L. lactis are similar to those reported in E. coli, the decrease in translational diffusion upon osmotic challenge in L. lactis is smaller than in E. coli. An even more striking difference is that in L. lactis the GFP diffusion coefficient drops much more rapidly with volume than in E. coli. We discuss these findings in the light of differences in turgor, cell volume, crowding and cytoplasmic structure of Gram‐positive and Gram‐negative bacteria.
The redundant aminotransferases in lysine and arginine synthesis and the extent of aminotransferase redundancy in Escherichia coli
Authors: Lal Piyush Behari , Schneider Barbara L. , Vu Khoan , Reitzer Larry
Published: September 2014

Aminotransferases can be redundant or promiscuous, but the extent and significance of these properties is not known in any organism, even in Escherichia coli. To determine the extent of redundancy, it was first necessary to identify the redundant aminotransferases in arginine and lysine synthesis, and then complement all aminotransferase‐deficient mutants with genes for all aminotransferases. The enzymes with N‐acetylornithine aminotransferase (ACOAT) activity in arginine synthesis were ArgD, AstC, GabT and PuuE; the major anaerobic ACOAT was ArgD. The major enzymes with N‐succinyl‐l,l‐diaminopimelate aminotransferase (SDAP‐AT) activity in lysine synthesis were ArgD, AstC, and SerC. Seven other aminotransferases, when overproduced, complemented the defect in a triple mutant. Lysine availability did not regulate synthesis of the major SDAP‐ATs. Complementation analysis of mutants lacking aminotransferases showed that the SDAP‐ATs and alanine aminotransferases were exceptionally redundant, and it is proposed that this redundancy may ensure peptidoglycan synthesis. An overview of all aminotransferase reactions indicates that redundancy and broad specificity are common properties of aminotransferases.
Diguanylate cyclase NicD‐based signalling mechanism of nutrient‐induced dispersion by Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Basu Roy Ankita , Sauer Karin
Published: September 2014

Dispersion enables the transition from the biofilm to the planktonic growth state in response to various cues. While several Pseudomonas aeruginosa proteins, including BdlA and the c‐di‐GMP phosphodiesterases DipA, RbdA, and NbdA, have been shown to be required for dispersion to occur, little is known about dispersion cue sensing and the signalling translating these cues into the modulation c‐di‐GMP levels to enable dispersion. Using glutamate‐induced dispersion as a model, we report that dispersion‐inducing nutrient cues are sensed via an outside‐in signalling mechanism by the diguanylate cyclase NicD belonging to a family of seven transmembrane (7TM) receptors. NicD directly interacts with BdlA and the phosphodiesterase DipA, with NicD, BdlA, and DipA being part of the same pathway required for dispersion. Glutamate sensing by NicD results in NicD dephosphorylation and increased cyclase activity. Active NicD contributes to the non‐processive proteolysis and activation of BdlA via phosphorylation and temporarily elevated c‐di‐GMP levels. BdlA, in turn, activates DipA, resulting in the overall reduction of c‐di‐GMP levels. Our results provide a basis for understanding the signalling mechanism based on NicD to induce biofilm dispersion that may be applicable to various biofilm‐forming species and may have implications for the control of biofilm‐related infections.
The decomposition of the Danish imperial monarchy
Authors: Jensen Jason O. , Hall John A.
Published: September 2014

One of the classical questions in the study of nationalism concerns the end of empires. Is nationalism, to use the phrase of Hiers and Wimmer, the cause or consequence of the end of empire? This paper considers a neglected case, that of the decomposition of the Danish imperial monarchy in the years between 1848 and 1864. We find that nationalist conflicts indisputably caused the end of this political entity. Crucially, Danish nationalists in the imperial core preferred to downsize the territories controlled by the Oldenburgs rather than to share power with German speakers in the periphery. Decomposition was not, however, inevitable: an early introduction of power‐sharing schemes might have saved the imperial monarchy.
Between religion and nationalism in thePalestinian diaspora
Authors: Vicente Pèrez Michael
Published: September 2014

This article examinesPalestinian refugee articulations of thePalestinian homeland and struggle in relation to religion and nationalism. My contention is that the impact ofHamas's electoral victory inPalestine is visible within the discourse ofPalestinians inJordan. This discourse suggests a transformation of the meaning ofPalestinian nationalism in which religion is taking an important albeit complex role in nationalism. Using the concept of intertwining, this article considers howIslam has been intertwined withPalestinian nationalism in ways that have privileged particular ideas about the national homeland and fight for liberation. While many suggest thatIslamist politics is incompatible with nationalism, this article takes the local discourse of refugees and argues thatHamas and its supporters have yet to abandon the framework of nationalism, although certain tensions exist.
The role of classical music in the construction of nationalism: a cross‐national perspective
Authors: Brincker Benedikte
Published: September 2014

This paper explores the role of classical music in the construction of nationalism in the twentieth century. It takes its point of departure in the Danish composer Carl Nielsen and analyses competing interpretations and receptions of his works. The paper seeks to move beyond the single case study. Hence, it includes three additional cases: the Soviet composer Dimitry Shostacovich (particularly the reception of his 5th Symphony); the position of Paul Hindemith in the Third Reich; and finally the development in Aron Copland's oeuvre. In so doing, it aims to clarify the relationship between classical music and nationalism.
Apoptosis in the kidneys of rats that experienced intrauterine growth restriction
Authors: He Xiaori , Xie Zongde , Dong Qingyi , Chen Pingyang , Hu Jingtao , Wang Tao
Published: September 2014

Aim

Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR) can affect kidney development, leading to reduction in glomerular number. However, the associated cellular and molecular mechanisms have not been fully elucidated. This study investigated cell apoptosis and Bcl‐2 and Bax expression in the kidney of IUGR pups.

Methods

The IUGR model was established in pregnant rats with 10% low‐protein diet. Renal cell apoptosis was detected using TUNEL staining. Ki67 protein expression was measured by immunohistochemistry. Bcl‐2 and Bax mRNA expression was measured by real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Results

Significant decreases in the number of glomeruli was observed in the kidney of IUGR pups 2 and 3 months after birth (P < 0.01). Obvious apoptosis was observed in the kidney in both groups 1 d, 7 d, and 21 d after birth with a peak at 7 d. Significantly higher apoptosis index was observed in the kidney of IUGR pups compared to control pups (P < 0.01). No significant difference in proliferation was observed between the two groups. Significantly lower Bcl‐2 mRNA expression, Bcl‐2/Bax ratio, and higher Bax mRNA expression were observed in IUGR pups compared to control pups after birth (P < 0.01).

Conclusion

The reduction in glomerular number in IUGR pups is associated with increase in renal cell apoptosis. The reduction in Bcl‐2/Bax ratio may play a crucial role in renal cell apoptosis in IUGR pups.
Citalopram for pediatric functional abdominal pain: a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Roohafza H. , Pourmoghaddas Z. , Saneian H. , Gholamrezaei A.
Published: September 2014

Background

Antidepressants are effective in adults with pain‐related functional gastrointestinal disorders. We investigated the effectiveness of citalopram in the treatment of childhood functional abdominal pain (FAP).

Methods

Children with FAP, based on the Rome III criteria (n = 115, aged 6–18 years), were randomized to receive either citalopram 20 mg/day or placebo for 4 weeks. Treatment response was defined as ≥2 point reduction in the 6‐point Faces pain rating scale or ‘no pain’. Depression, anxiety, somatization, and physician‐rated global severity and improvement were also evaluated. Patients were followed up for 8 weeks after medication period.

Key Results

Eighty‐six patients completed the medication (43 in each group). Response rate in the citalopram and placebo groups based on per‐protocol (intention‐to‐treat) analysis was 55.8% (40.6%) and 39.5% (30.3%) at week 4 (p = 0.097 [0.169]) and 72.0% (52.5%) and 53.4% (41.0%) at week 12 (p = 0.059 [0.148]), respectively. In per‐protocol analysis, more reduction was observed in pain (F = 3.84, p = 0.024) and global severity scores (F = 4.12, p = 0.021) in the citalopram group compared with the placebo group over the study period. Such differences were not present in the intention‐to‐treat analysis. No difference was found between the two groups regarding change in depression, anxiety, or somatization score over the study.

Conclusions & Inferences

Overall, we found a trend toward the effectiveness of citalopram in the treatment of children with FAP. Trials with longer treatment duration in larger samples of patients are required in this regard.
Shading decreases plant carbon preferential allocation towards the most beneficial mycorrhizal mutualist
Authors: Zheng Chaoyuan , Ji Baoming , Zhang Junling , Zhang Fusuo , Bever James D.
Published: September 2014

Preferential allocation towards the most beneficial mutualist could maintain mycorrhizal mutualism. Context dependence of preferential allocation could then determine environmental patterns in abundance of mycorrhizal mutualists.

We assessed the preferential allocation of carbon (C) and differential phosphorus (P) uptake across four light treatments between the host plant Allium vineale and two arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi within a split‐root system. The ratios of C allocation and P uptake between the beneficial and nonbeneficial AM fungi were measured using isotopic labelling.

Allium vineale preferentially allocated more C towards roots infected with the most beneficial AM fungus in high light and, in return, received more P from the beneficial fungus. Preferential allocation declined with shading, as A. vineale allocated 25% of labelled C to roots infected with beneficial AM fungi in high light, but only 15% with shading, a similar percentage to that allocated to roots infected with nonbeneficial fungi regardless of shading.

Our findings demonstrate that plant preferential allocation towards the most beneficial mycorrhizal mutualist depends upon above‐ground resources, suggesting that the abundance of beneficial mycorrhizal fungi will increase with amount of above‐ground resources, with implications for mycorrhizal mediation of plant productivity with anthropogenic change.
Cytosolic calcium signals elicited by the pathogen‐associated molecular pattern flg22 in stomatal guard cells are of an oscillatory nature
Authors: Thor Kathrin , Peiter Edgar
Published: September 2014

Changes in cytosolic free calcium ([Ca2+]cyt) are an early and essential element of signalling networks activated by the perception of pathogen‐associated molecular patterns (PAMPs), such as flg22. The flg22‐induced calcium signal has been described on whole‐plant, but not on single‐cell scale so far. Also, the Ca2+ sources and channels contributing to its generation are still obscure.

Ratiometric fluorescence imaging employing the calcium reporter Yellow Cameleon 3.6 was performed to analyse the flg22‐induced calcium signature in single guard cells of Arabidopsis thaliana. Calcium stores and channel types involved in its generation were determined by a pharmacological approach.

In contrast to the calcium signal determined on whole‐plant level, the signature on single‐cell level is not characterized by one sustained response, but by oscillations in [Ca2+]cyt. These oscillations were abolished by EGTA and lanthanum, as well as by U73122, neomycin and TMB‐8, but only partially or not at all affected by inhibitors of glutamate receptor‐like channels and cyclic nucleotide‐gated channels.

Our analyses suggest that the response observed on whole‐plant level is the summary of oscillations occurring in single cells. Parallel to external calcium, influx via channels located at internal stores contributes to the signal.
Nodular Lichen Myxedematosus During Childhood: A Case Report
Authors: Zeng Rong , Li Min , Jiang Yiqun , Liu Weida
Published: September 2014

Nodular lichen myxedematosus (LM) is a rare disease and is one of the five subtypes of localized LM. It is distinctly characterized by multiple nodules on the trunk and limbs with or without papular lesions. A healthy 6‐year‐old boy presented with complaints of “knots” on his right chest, upper limb, and thigh for 4 months. To our knowledge this is the first case of nodular LM reported in a child.
Novel R634W c‐kit Mutation Identified in Familial Mastocytosis
Authors: Pollard Whitney L. , Beachkofsky Thomas M. , Kobayashi Todd T.
Published: September 2014

Familial mastocytosis is a well‐documented but rare entity, with fewer than 100 cases reported in the literature. The etiology has most commonly been linked to activating c‐kit mutations, with several mutations reported to date. We present a novel familial mastocytosis‐associated c‐kit mutation (R634W) in three siblings with urticaria pigmentosa. This mutation has been previously described in mucosal melanoma, chronic myelomonocytic leukemia, and acute myeloid leukemia. Because this is a rare mutation, it is unclear whether screening for other disease states associated with the mutation would be of benefit.
Antibiotic prophylaxis in the management of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy in infants and children
Authors: Engelmann Guido , Wenning Daniel , Fertig Eduard , Lenhartz Henning , Hoffmann Georg Friedrich , Teufel Ulrike
Published: September 2014

Background

In randomized controlled trials in adult patients the use of prophylactic broad‐spectrum antibiotic reduces the number of insertion site and systemic infections, associated with placement of percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) tubes. For pediatric patients no such trials exist. The aim of this study was to assess the value of antibiotic prophylaxis in PEG placement in pediatric patients.

Methods

In a retrospective chart review PEG placement in infants and children performed in a tertiary care center was analyzed. All PEG procedures were performed by an experienced pediatric gastroenterologist using the pull‐through technique under general anesthesia.

Results

A total of 103 procedures were analyzed; 33 patients received antibiotic prophylaxis and 70 did not. Two (6%) of the patients receiving prophylaxis developed local or systemic infections after PEG placement, whereas seven (10%) without prophylaxis suffered from a PEG‐related infection. This difference was not significant on chi‐squared test (P = 0.5). Sixty patients had a body temperature >38°C within the first 3 days after the PEG procedure. A total of 77% of these patients had no antibiotic prophylaxis. Mean body temperature differed significantly between patients with and without prophylaxis (37.9°C vs. 38.3°C, respectively; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

The incidence of PEG‐related local or systemic infection after PEG‐placement was not significantly different between patients with and without antibiotic prophylaxis, but the latter had a significantly higher mean body temperature after the PEG procedure. Taking elevated mean body temperature as a marker for putative bacteremia it is suggested that antibiotic prophylaxis is indicated in all pediatric patients after PEG placement.
Children with short‐limbed short stature in pediatric endocrinological services in Japan
Authors: Hasegawa Kosei , Tanaka Hiroyuki
Published: September 2014

Short‐limbed short stature is a heterogeneous condition that can result from many diseases such as bone disorder, metabolic disease, and multiple malformation syndrome. We conducted a questionnaire survey of council members of the Japanese Society of Pediatric Endocrinology and doctors of affiliated hospitals in 2010 to investigate short‐limbed short stature. Among 91 hospitals, responses were obtained from 61 hospitals (67% response rate). This study also examined data of 193 short‐limbed short stature patients, among whom FGFR3‐related chondrodysplasia such as achondroplasia (n = 109; 56.5%) was found the most frequently. Second to achondroplasia, hypochondroplasia (n = 47; 24.4%) was the most frequently observed. Along with achondroplasia and hypochondroplasia, 31 patients with disorders of 13 other kinds and six undiagnosed patients were identified. Genetic testing for hypochondroplasia was conducted for only 27.7% of all hypochondroplasia patients, although hypochondroplasia is a heterogeneous condition with many causes, only one of which is FGFR3 mutation. We conducted a genetic analysis of 25 patients who had been clinically diagnosed as having “hypochondroplasia”. In these patients, other diseases such as acromicric dysplasia, geleophysic dysplasia, and Aarskog–Scott syndrome were included in addition to FGFR3‐related hypochondroplasia (n = 10). Clinical diagnosis of each disorder causing short‐limbed short stature is difficult. Therefore, not only clinical diagnosis but also genetic diagnosis play an important role in the diagnosis of short‐limb short stature. Diagnostic strategies must be created for each disorder.
Positional embeddedness in a community source software development project network: the importance of relationship intensity
Authors: Provan Keith G. , Lemaire Robin H.
Published: September 2014

This study examines those job and relationship characteristics that explain the positional embeddedness of individuals working in a multi‐organization project network. The analysis focuses differentially on three levels of relationship intensiveness: communication, coordination, and collaboration. Data were collected on the work relationships of 46 technical and administrative personnel involved in the Kuali Financial System, a community source software development project involving 12 organizations, 10 of which were colleges and universities, spread across the United States. Results were generally supportive of the hypotheses. Specifically, positional embeddedness was explained by characteristics of the project worker including the task performed, time spent on the task, and influence, as well as the ease of access to others. There was, however, little consistency in the explanatory power of these factors when comparing across levels of relationship intensity. Findings have implications for design of complex research and development projects that involve interactions across multiple organizations.
Cycle‐Characteristic Odour of Cow Urine Can Be Detected by the Female Face Fly (Musca autumnalis)
Authors: Nordéus K , Webster B , Söderquist L , Båge R , Glinwood R
Published: September 2014

Contents

Due to declining dairy cow fertility rates, there is great interest in developing tools for oestrus detection. Compounds in the volatile profile of oestrous cows are suggested as oestrus‐specific, but consistent results have not been presented. Certain haematophagous arthropods can discriminate stages of the mammalian reproductive cycle based on host volatiles. This study investigated whether the face fly, Musca autumnalis de Geer (Diptera: Muscidae), can discriminate between urine from cows in oestrus and urine collected during the luteal phase. Individual flies were tested in a two‐choice behavioural assay with choice between odour of oestrous or luteal urine and water (control). Flies chose the control arm significantly more when exposed to oestrous urine than when exposed to luteal urine. Analysis of volatiles showed that 1‐hexadecanol (cetyl alcohol) was released in greater amounts from oestrous urine than from urine collected during the luteal phase. In a dose response assay, flies were significantly attracted by 0.01 ng of 1‐hexadecanol but significantly repelled by 0.1 ng, a pattern consistent with fly responses to urine. In conclusion, M. autumnalis can discriminate between oestrous and luteal urine, and this may be mediated by differences in 1‐hexadecanol concentration.
Characterization of miR‐126‐3p and its Target Talin2 in the Bovine Corpus Luteum during the Oestrus Cycle
Authors: Dai L , Xu J , Liu S , Ma T , Zhu Y , Xu F , Gao Y , Yuan B , Wang S , Zhang Y , Sun G , Zhang J
Published: September 2014

Contents

Although clear advances have been made in understanding of gene transcriptional regulation in the corpous luteum (CL) during the oestrous cycle, little is known about the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) in this physiological process. In the present study, expression of miR‐126‐3p was preliminarily detected in bovine CL throughout the oestrous cycle, while the expression during the middle or late stages was significantly more abundant (p < 0.01) than that during the early or regressed stages. Localization of miR‐126‐3p was subsequently observed in large and small luteal cells during the oestrous cycle in cattle. Meanwhile, to further investigate the function of miR‐126‐3p, its potential targets and responsive elements were determined and evaluated. It was revealed that miR‐126‐3p could target talin2 (TLN2) directly by binding the responsive element within the 3′‐UTR. Quantitative analysis of TLN2 at mRNA and protein level also suggested that there was an inverse correlation between miR‐126‐3p and TLN2 at the developmental luteal stages in cattle. Collectively, these results demonstrated that difference in the expression pattern and location of miR‐126‐3p occurred at different stages of the bovine CL and that miR‐126‐3p acted as an important regulator of TLN2, suggesting their putative involvement in the development of bovine CL during the oestrous cycle.
Tectonically driven deposition and landscape evolution within upland incised valleys: Ambra Valley fill, Pliocene–Pleistocene, Tuscany, Italy
Authors: Bianchi Valeria , Ghinassi Massimiliano , Aldinucci Mauro , Boaga Jacopo , Brogi Andrea , Deiana Rita
Published: September 2014

Sedimentation in the upstream reaches of incised valleys is predominantly of alluvial origin and, in most cases, independent from relative sea‐level or lake‐level oscillations. Preserved facies distributions record the depositional response to a combination of allogenic factors, including tectonics, climate and landscape evolution. Tectonics drive fluvial aggradation and degradation through local changes in gradient, both longitudinal and transverse to the valley slope. This article deals with a Pliocene–Pleistocene fluvial valley fill developed in the north‐eastern shoulder of the Siena Basin (Northern Apennines, Italy). Evolution of the valley was not influenced by sea‐level or lake‐level changes and morphological and depositional evolution of valley resulted from extensional tectonics that gave rise to normal and oblique‐slip faults orthogonal and parallel to the valley axis. Data from both field observations and geophysical study are interpreted to develop a comprehensive tectono‐sedimentary model of coeval longitudinal and lateral tilting of the developing alluvial plain. Longitudinal tilting was generated by a transverse, upstream‐dipping normal fault that controlled the aggradation of fining‐upward strata sets. Upstream of the fault zone, valley back‐filling generated an architecture similar to that of classic, sea‐level‐controlled, coastal incised valleys. Downstream of the fault zone, valley down‐filling was related to an overwhelming sediment supply sourced and routed from the active fault zone itself. Lateral tilting was promoted by the activity of a fault oriented parallel to the valley axis, as well as by different offsets along near orthogonal faults. As a result, the valley trunk system experienced complex lateral shifts, which were governed by interacting fault‐generated subsidence and by the topographic confinement of progradational, flank‐sourced alluvial fans.
What Type of Resources? Household Effects and Female Electoral Participation
Authors: Stadelmann‐Steffen Isabelle , Koller Daniela
Published: September 2014

This paper investigates the relationship between socioeconomic resources and women's political participation, more precisely whether the distinction between individual and household resources helps to identify different mechanisms behind a possible “resource effect”. Based on a Bayesian multilevel analysis using the Swiss Election Study 2011, we show that both individual and household resources matter for explaining female electoral participation. However, resource effects must not necessarily be positive: While higher education of women and their partners tend to increase female participation, a demanding job of either the woman and/or her partner rather decreases her propensity to vote. Moreover, the mechanisms behind partner effects are contingent on women's individual resource endowment. While low and medium educated women most strongly profit from higher educational partner resources, i.e. from a compensatory mechanism, the resource “time” seems to particularly confine political involvement of women with both high professional status or no employment.