bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lechevalieria

nigeriaca sp. nov., isolated from arid soil
Authors: Camas Mustafa , Veyisoglu Aysel , Tatar Demet , Saygin Hayrettin , Cetin Demet , Sazak Anil , Guven Kiymet , Sahin Nevzat
Published: May 2013

A novel actinobacterium, designated strain NJ2035T, was isolated from soil collected from Abuja, Nigeria and was characterized to determine its taxonomic position. The isolate was found to have chemical and morphological properties associated with members of the genus

Lechevalieria

. Phylogenetic analyses based on almost-complete 16S rRNA gene sequences indicated that the isolate was closely related to members of the genus

Lechevalieria

, and was shown to form a distinct phyletic line in the

Lechevalieria

phylogenetic tree. Strain NJ2035T was most closely related to

Lechevalieria roselyniae

C81T,

Lechevalieria atacamensis

C61T and

Lechevalieria deserti

C68T (98.5 % 16S rRNA gene sequence similarity). Sequence similarities with other members of the genus

Lechevalieria

were less than 98.2 %. The cell wall of the novel strain contained meso-diaminopimelic acid, and galactose, mannose and rhamnose as the diagnostic sugars. The predominant menaquinone was MK-9(H4). The polar lipids detected were diphosphatidylglycerol, phosphatidylethanolamine, phosphatidylglycerol and phosphatidylinositol. DNA–DNA relatedness and phenotypic data showed that the novel isolate and

L. roselyniae

C81T,

L. atacamensis

C61T and

L. deserti

C68T belong to distinct genomic species. On the basis of data from this taxonomic study using a polyphasic approach, strain NJ2035T represents a novel species of the genus

Lechevalieria

, for which the name

Lechevalieria

nigeriaca sp. nov. is proposed. The type strain is NJ2035T ( = DSM 45680T = KCTC 29057T = NRRL B-24881T).
Enhancer transcripts mark active estrogen receptor binding sites
Authors: Hah Nasun , Murakami Shino , Nagari Anusha , Danko Charles G. , Kraus W. Lee
Published: May 2013

We have integrated and analyzed a large number of data sets from a variety of genomic assays using a novel computational pipeline to provide a global view of estrogen receptor 1 (ESR1; a.k.a. ERα) enhancers in MCF-7 human breast cancer cells. Using this approach, we have defined a class of primary transcripts (eRNAs) that are transcribed uni- or bidirectionally from estrogen receptor binding sites (ERBSs) with an average transcription unit length of ∼3–5 kb. The majority are up-regulated by short treatments with estradiol (i.e., 10, 25, or 40 min) with kinetics that precede or match the induction of the target genes. The production of eRNAs at ERBSs is strongly correlated with the enrichment of a number of genomic features that are associated with enhancers (e.g., H3K4me1, H3K27ac, EP300/CREBBP, RNA polymerase II, open chromatin architecture), as well as enhancer looping to target gene promoters. In the absence of eRNA production, strong enrichment of these features is not observed, even though ESR1 binding is evident. We find that flavopiridol, a CDK9 inhibitor that blocks transcription elongation, inhibits eRNA production but does not affect other molecular indicators of enhancer activity, suggesting that eRNA production occurs after the assembly of active enhancers. Finally, we show that an enhancer transcription “signature” based on GRO-seq data can be used for de novo enhancer prediction across cell types. Together, our studies shed new light on the activity of ESR1 at its enhancer sites and provide new insights about enhancer function.
Modelling and analysis of factors influencing surface roughness and delamination of milling of GFRP laminates using RSM
Authors: Jenarthanan M.P. , Jeyapaul R. , Naresh N.
Published: May 2013

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a mathematical model for surface roughness and delamination through response surface methodology (RSM) and analyse the influences of the entire individual input machining parameters (cutting speed, fibre orientation angle, depth of cut and feed rate) on the responses in milling of glass fibre reinforced plastics (GFRP) composites with solid carbide end mill cutter coated with PCD.

Design/methodology/approach

Four factors, five level central composites and a rotatable design matrix in response surface methodology were employed to carry out the experimental investigation. “Design Expert 8.0” software was used for regression and graphical analysis of the data were collected. The optimum values of the selected variables were obtained by solving the regression equation and by analyzing the response surface contour plots. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) was applied to check the validity of the model and for finding the significant parameters.

Findings

The developed second order response surface model was used to calculate the surface roughness and delamination of the machined surfaces at different cutting conditions with the chosen range with 95 per cent confidence intervals. Using such a model, remarkable savings in time and cost can be obtained.

Originality/value

The effect of fibre orientation during milling of GFRP laminates using RSM has not been previously attempted for analysis.
Non‐invasive cardiovascular profiling using combined electrocardiogram–Doppler ultrasonography and impedance cardiography: An experimental approach
Authors: Tomsin Kathleen , Vriens Annette , Mesens Tinne , Gyselaers Wilfried
Published: May 2013

In the present study, the feasibility of cardiovascular profiling using both combined electrocardiogram (ECG)–Doppler ultrasonography and impedance cardiography (ICG) was evaluated.

Fourteen non‐pregnant healthy women received 500 mL saline solution (NaCl 0.9% at 999 mL/h) intravenously by steady state infusion. Before and after this acute volume loading, we measured orthostatic‐challenged cardiac and arterial characteristics using ICG and assessed venous characteristics by combined ECG–Doppler before and during the Valsalva manoeuvre. Changes are expressed as the mean ± SEM and were evaluated by the one‐sample Wilcoxon signed‐rank test.

After volume loading, the observed fall in stroke volume after postural change from supine to standing decreased (–14 ± 3 vs –23 ± 2%; P = 0.011). Hepatic A wave velocity increased 63 ± 28% after volume loading (P = 0.007) and decreased during the Valsalva manoeuvre (–205 ± 21%; P = 0.001). Volume loading raised the thoracic fluid content index in both the supine and standing positions (7 ± 2% and 10 ± 1%, respectively; P ≤ 0.014).

Combined ECG–Doppler ultrasonography and ICG enables the non‐invasive identification of concomitant haemodynamic changes at the level of the heart, the arterial bed and the venous compartment. Our data support the view that non‐invasive cardiovascular profiling is feasible, which seems particularly useful for the evaluation of patients who are not critically ill, such as pregnant women.
The relationship between family‐of‐origin experiences and sexual satisfaction in married couples
Authors: Strait James G. , Sandberg Jonathan G. , Larson Jeffry H. , Harper James M.
Published: May 2013

This study examined the relationship between perceptions of family‐of‐origin experiences, sexual satisfaction and marital quality. The sample consisted of 3953 married couples who responded to the relationship evaluation. The results showed that more positive overall family‐of‐origin experiences and parent–child relationships were related to higher sexual satisfaction. Overall, family‐of‐origin experiences and parent–child relationships were predictive of higher sexual satisfaction; however, that relationship was significantly mediated by marital quality. There was a strong positive relationship between marital quality and sexual satisfaction. No major gender differences emerged from the findings. The results suggest that family‐of‐origin experiences play a key role in the sexual satisfaction of married couples, especially when mediated by marital quality, and should be considered in treatment, education and research.
Transverse uterine fundal incision for placenta praevia with accreta, involving the entire anterior uterine wall: a case series
Authors: Kotsuji F , Nishijima K , Kurokawa T , Yoshida Y , Sekiya T , Banzai M , Minakami H , Udagawa Y
Published: May 2013

Objective

To determine the feasibility and safety of transverse fundal incision with manual placental removal in women with placenta praevia and possible placenta accreta.

Design

Case series.

Setting

Four level‐three Japanese obstetric centres.

Population

Thirty‐four women with prior caesarean section and placenta praevia that widely covers the anterior uterine wall, in whom placenta accreta cannot be ruled out.

Methods

A transverse fundal incision was performed at the time of caesarean section and manual placental removal was attempted under direct observation.

Main outcome measure

Operative fluid loss.

Results

The total volume of fluid lost during our operative procedure compares favourably with the volume lost during our routine transverse lower‐segment caesarean sections performed in patients without placenta praevia or accreta. The average fluid loss was 1370 g. No patients required transfer to intensive care, and there were no cases of fetal anaemia.

Conclusions

This procedure has the potential to reduce the heavy bleeding that arises from caesarean deliveries in women with placenta praevia and placenta accreta.
Longitudinal analysis of cardiovascular risk parameters in women with a history of hypertensive pregnancy disorders: the Doetinchem Cohort Study
Authors: Drost JT , van der Schouw YT , Maas AHEM , Verschuren WMM
Published: May 2013

Objective

Women with hypertensive pregnancy disorders (HPD) are at increased risk of developing hypertension and cardiovascular disease later in life; however, it is not known how cardiovascular risk develops throughout life. We evaluated the longitudinal trends in cardiovascular risk factors in women after hypertensive pregnancy disorders compared with women with normotensive pregnancies.

Design and population

All women of the Doetinchem Cohort Study (1987–91), a population‐based cohort study, were included.

Methods

Women were examined (questionnaires and physical examination) four times at 5‐year intervals. History of HPD was assessed from questionnaires. We compared 5‐year changes in risk factors between women with and without HPD, by analysing longitudinal trends using generalised estimating equation analysis to estimate the effects of HPD and mean age, adjusting for treatment, body mass index (BMI), smoking and socio‐economic status.

Main outcome measures

Change over time in traditional cardiovascular risk factors, including systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP), BMI, total and high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol for women with and without a history of HPD.

Results

A total of 2703 women with normotensive pregnancies (mean age 40.5 years, SD 10.4) and 689 women with a history of HPD (mean age 38.4 years, SD 9.5) were included. Compared with normotensive women, in women with a history of HPD, SBP was 2.8 mmHg higher (95% CI 1.7–3.9), DBP was 2.3 mmHg higher (95% CI 1.6–3.0) and BMI was 0.7 kg/m2 higher (95% CI 0.4–1.1). Total cholesterol (−0.05; 95% CI −0.1 to 0.0) and HDL cholesterol (0.02; 95% CI −0.0 to 0.1) were similar in both groups. No difference in annual change in blood pressure or in the other risk factors was observed between women with and without a history of HPD.

Conclusion

Women with a history of HPD have higher levels of SBP, DBP and BMI compared with normotensive women, but the increase with ageing is similar in both groups.
Localized treatments using commercial dust and liquid formulations of fipronil against Coptotermes formosanus (Isoptera: Rhinotermitidae) in the laboratory
Authors: Gautam Bal K. , Henderson Gregg , Wang Cai
Published: May 2013

Use of proper application methods and formulations of termiticides are important to reduce their negative impact to the environment. In this study, we conducted laboratory experiments to determine the effect of localized treatments with commercial dust and liquid formulations of fipronil against Formosan subterranean termites, Coptotermes formosanus Shiraki. The test arena consisted of a specially designed 16‐chambered structure with a center chamber connected to 5 foraging chambers that themselves were connected to 10 additional foraging chambers. One peripheral chamber received a liquid or dust treatment and termites were released in the center chamber. Results showed that >91% of the termites were dead within the 9‐d test period despite the localized treatment of only 1 foraging chamber. Termites that were still alive after 9 d were transferred to an untreated dish and held for 10 more days. The majority of those termites were dead and the rest were moribund on day 19. Regardless of the specific dish treated, both formulations of fipronil were found to be highly efficacious. Termites did not exhibit repellency to either formulation. Our results suggest that localized (or spot) treatment with either commercially available dust or liquid formulations of fipronil can be a viable option for control of a termite infestation where complete soil drenching is not desirable.
Separating the Political and Technical: Accounting Standard‐Setting and Purification
Authors: Young Joni J.
Published: May 2013

The U.S.‐based Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) emphasizes that accounting standard‐setting is not and should not be regarded as a “political process.” Employing the case of accounting for stock compensation, I examine a recent debate in which FASB appears to have successfully established and maintained a boundary between a technical accounting process and politics. This case is interesting because an earlier, failed effort to expense stock compensation was described as highly politicized. However, the boundary between technical and political processes was maintained in the more recent episode. I find that a focus on due process, characterizations of existing accounting requirements as anomalous and available measurement methods as reliable, and warnings about the dangers of injecting “politics” into standard‐setting were important to this boundary work. I also find that the boundary work required considerable interpretive flexibility in selecting (or ignoring) the evidence to be used in justifying the standard‐setting project and its conclusions. I conclude by suggesting that a different understanding of what it means to be involved in a “political process” might help all parties understand more fully what is taking place during the accounting standard‐setting process. Attention could be turned to developing processes to facilitate debates over which values should guide decisions occurring throughout the standard‐setting process. To this end, an enhanced standard‐setting process might allow for increased participation in agenda setting, in framing and scoping standard‐setting projects, and in providing opportunities for nonexperts to participate.
Prolonged lifespan with enhanced exploratory behavior in mice overexpressing the oxidized nucleoside triphosphatase hMTH1
Authors: De Luca Gabriele , Ventura Ilenia , Sanghez Valentina , Russo Maria Teresa , Ajmone‐Cat Maria Antonietta , Cacci Emanuele , Martire Alberto , Popoli Patrizia , Falcone Germana , Michelini Flavia , Crescenzi Marco , Degan Paolo , Minghetti Luisa , Bignami Margherita , Calamandrei Gemma
Published: May 2013

The contribution that oxidative damage to DNA and/or RNA makes to the aging process remains undefined. In this study, we used the hMTH1‐Tg mouse model to investigate how oxidative damage to nucleic acids affects aging. hMTH1‐Tg mice express high levels of the hMTH1 hydrolase that degrades 8‐oxodGTP and 8‐oxoGTP and excludes 8‐oxoguanine from both DNA and RNA. Compared to wild‐type animals, hMTH1‐overexpressing mice have significantly lower steady‐state levels of 8‐oxoguanine in both nuclear and mitochondrial DNA of several organs, including the brain. hMTH1 overexpression prevents the age‐dependent accumulation of DNA 8‐oxoguanine that occurs in wild‐type mice. These lower levels of oxidized guanines are associated with increased longevity and hMTH1‐Tg animals live significantly longer than their wild‐type littermates. Neither lipid oxidation nor overall antioxidant status is significantly affected by hMTH1 overexpression. At the cellular level, neurospheres derived from adult hMTH1‐Tg neural progenitor cells display increased proliferative capacity and primary fibroblasts from hMTH1‐Tg embryos do not undergo overt senescence in vitro. The significantly lower levels of oxidized DNA/RNA in transgenic animals are associated with behavioral changes. These mice show reduced anxiety and enhanced investigation of environmental and social cues. Longevity conferred by overexpression of a single nucleotide hydrolase in hMTH1‐Tg animals is an example of lifespan extension associated with healthy aging. It provides a link between aging and oxidative damage to nucleic acids.
Marxist Critiques of the Developmental State and the Fetishism of National Development
Authors: Song Hae‐Yung
Published: May 2013

The developmental state has been heavily discussed in various disciplines and across diverse political spectrums. However, the statist notion formulated by institutionalists that the developmental state is autonomous from society and therefore effective in achieving “national development” has more often been taken for granted than problematised. The statist notion of the developmental state has also been accepted and reproduced or challenged merely inadequately by Marxist critics. By analysing how and why currently available Marxist assessments of the developmental state fail to challenge statism, this article offers an alternative theory of the developmental state by drawing on both social form critique and world system analysis. It then locates the origins of statism itself in the dynamics of global capitalism, in which the totality of capitalist social relations (understood as global from its inception) are hierarchically and unevenly constituted. From this it extends Marx's critique of commodity fetishism to the question of the international (the relationship between the nation state and world market) and criticises the statist notion of the developmental state from the perspective of a critique of the fetishism of national development.
The Spiral Groove Bearing as a Mechanism for Enhancing the Secondary Flow in a Centrifugal Rotary Blood Pump
Authors: Amaral Felipe , Groß‐Hardt Sascha , Timms Daniel , Egger Christina , Steinseifer Ulrich , Schmitz‐Rode Thomas
Published: May 2013

The rapid evolution of rotary blood pump (RBP) technology in the last few decades was shaped by devices with increased durability, frequently employing magnetic or hydrodynamic suspension techniques. However, the potential for low flow in small gaps between the rotor and pump casing is still a problem for hemocompatibility. In this study, a spiral groove hydrodynamic bearing (SGB) is applied with two distinct objectives: first, as a mechanism to enhance the washout in the secondary flow path of a centrifugal RBP, lowering the exposure to high shear stresses and avoiding thrombus formation; and second, as a way to allow smaller gaps without compromising the washout, enhancing the overall pump efficiency. Computational fluid dynamics was applied and verified via bench‐top experiments. An optimization of selected geometric parameters (groove angle, width and depth) focusing on the washout in the gap rather than generating suspension force was conducted. An optimized SGB geometry reduced the residence time of the cells in the gap from 31 to 27 ms, an improvement of 14% compared with the baseline geometry of 200 μm without grooves. When optimizing for pump performance, a 15% smaller gap yielded a slightly better rate of fluid exchange compared with the baseline, followed by a 22% reduction in the volumetric loss from the primary pathway. Finally, an improved washout can be achieved in a pulsatile environment due to the SGB ability to pump inwardly, even in the absence of a pressure head.
The physiological response of protease inhibition in dystrophic muscle
Authors: Hollinger K. , Selsby J. T.
Published: May 2013

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is caused by the production of a non‐functional dystrophin gene product and a failure to accumulate functional dystrophin protein in muscle cells. This leads to membrane instability, loss of Ca2+ homoeostasis and widespread cellular injury. Associated with these changes are increased protease activities in a variety of proteolytic systems. As such, there have been numerous investigations directed towards determining the therapeutic potential of protease inhibition. In this review, evidence from genetic and/or pharmacological inhibition of proteases as a treatment strategy for DMD is systematically evaluated. Specifically, we review the potential roles of calpain, proteasome, caspase, matrix metalloproteinase and serine protease inhibition as therapeutic approaches for DMD. We conclude that despite early results to the contrary, inhibition of calpain proteases is unlikely to be successful. Conversely, evidence suggests that inhibition of proteasome, matrix metalloproteinases and serine proteases does appear to decrease disease severity. An important caveat to these conclusions, however, is that the fundamental cause of DMD, dystrophin deficiency, is not corrected by this strategy. Hence, this should not be viewed as a cure, but rather, protease inhibitors should be considered for inclusion in a therapeutic cocktail. Physiological Relevance. Selective modulation of protease activity has the potential to profoundly change intracellular physiology resulting in a possible treatment for DMD. However, alteration of protease activities could also lead to worsening of disease progression by promoting the accumulation of substrates in the cell. The balance of benefit and potential damage caused by protease inhibition in human DMD patients is largely unexplored.
Partly Conditional Estimation of the Effect of a Time‐Dependent Factor in the Presence of Dependent Censoring
Authors: Gong Qi , Schaubel Douglas E.
Published: May 2013

We propose semiparametric methods for estimating the effect of a time‐dependent covariate on treatment‐free survival. The data structure of interest consists of a longitudinal sequence of measurements and a potentially censored survival time. The factor of interest is time‐dependent. Treatment‐free survival is of interest and is dependently censored by the receipt of treatment. Patients may be removed from consideration for treatment, temporarily or permanently. The proposed methods combine landmark analysis and partly conditional hazard regression. A set of calendar time cross‐sections is specified, and survival time (from cross‐section date) is modeled through weighted Cox regression. The assumed model for death is marginal in the sense that time‐varying covariates are taken as fixed at each landmark, with the mortality hazard function implicitly averaging across future covariate trajectories. Dependent censoring is overcome by a variant of inverse probability of censoring weighting (IPCW). The proposed estimators are shown to be consistent and asymptotically normal, with consistent covariance estimators provided. Simulation studies reveal that the proposed estimation procedures are appropriate for practical use. We apply the proposed methods to pre‐transplant mortality among end‐stage liver disease (ESLD) patients.
Hinterland basin development and infilling through tectonic and eustatic processes: latest Messinian‐Gelasian Valdelsa Basin, Northern Apennines, Italy
Authors: Benvenuti M. , Del Conte S. , Scarselli N. , Dominici S.
Published: May 2013

This article reports a stratigraphic and structural analysis of the Neogene‐Quaternary Valdelsa Basin (Central Italy), filled with up to 1000 m of uppermost Miocene to lower Pleistocene strata. The succession is subdivided into seven unconformity‐bounded stratigraphic units (synthems, or large‐scale depositional sequences) that include fluvio‐deltaic and shallow‐marine deposits. Structures related to basin shoulders and internal boundaries controlled the Neogene location and geometry of different depocentres. During the Tortonian‐Messinian, a buried NE‐trending high related to regional, basin‐transverse lineaments separated two adjacent sub‐basins. During the lower Pliocene, compressional displacement along NW‐trending, thrust‐related highs controlled the distribution of depocentres and dispersal of sediment. Extensional tectonics, although previously considered the dominant deformation style affecting the rear of the Northern Apennines since the late Miocene, is no longer considered a dominant control on tectono‐sedimentary development of the Valdelsa basin. Instead, the Valdelsa Basin shares features with continental hinterland basins of orogenic belts where compression, extension, and transcurrent stress fields determine a complex spatial and temporal record of accommodation and sediment supply. In the Valdelsa Basin tectonics and eustatic sea‐level fluctuations were dominant in forcing the deposition of sedimentary cycles at several scales. Zanclean and Gelasian large‐scale depositional sequences were mainly controlled by crustal shortening, whereas a eustatic signal was preferentially recorded during the Piacenzian. Smaller scale depositional sequences, common to most synthems, were controlled by orbitally forced glacio‐eustatic cycles.
Genome‐wide association study of chemotherapeutic agent‐induced severe neutropenia/leucopenia for patients in Biobank Japan
Authors: Low Siew‐Kee , Chung Suyoun , Takahashi Atsushi , Zembutsu Hitoshi , Mushiroda Taisei , Kubo Michiaki , Nakamura Yusuke
Published: May 2013

Chemotherapeutic agents are notoriously known to have a narrow therapeutic range that often results in life‐threatening toxicity. Hence, it is clinically important to identify the patients who are at high risk for severe toxicity to certain chemotherapy through a pharmacogenomics approach. In this study, we carried out multiple genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) of 13 122 cancer patients who received different chemotherapy regimens, including cyclophosphamide‐ and platinum‐based (cisplatin and carboplatin), anthracycline‐based (doxorubicin and epirubicin), and antimetabolite‐based (5‐fluorouracil and gemcitabine) treatment, antimicrotubule agents (paclitaxel and docetaxel), and topoisomerase inhibitors (camptothecin and etoposide), as well as combination therapy with paclitaxel and carboplatin, to identify genetic variants that are associated with the risk of severe neutropenia/leucopenia in the Japanese population. In addition, we used a weighted genetic risk scoring system to evaluate the cumulative effects of the suggestive genetic variants identified from GWAS in order to predict the risk levels of individuals who carry multiple risk alleles. Although we failed to identify genetic variants that surpassed the genome‐wide significance level (P < 5.0 × 10−8) through GWAS, probably due to insufficient statistical power and complex clinical features, we were able to shortlist some of the suggestive associated loci. The current study is at the relatively preliminary stage, but does highlight the complexity and problematic issues associated with retrospective pharmacogenomics studies. However, we hope that verification of these genetic variants through local and international collaborations could improve the clinical outcome for cancer patients.
Tumor associated macrophage expressing CD204 is associated with tumor aggressiveness of esophageal squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Shigeoka Manabu , Urakawa Naoki , Nakamura Tetsu , Nishio Mari , Watajima Taketo , Kuroda Daisuke , Komori Takahide , Kakeji Yoshihiro , Semba Shuho , Yokozaki Hiroshi
Published: May 2013

Tumor associated macrophages (TAMs) are the most abundant cancer stromal cells educated by tumor microenvironment to acquire trophic functions facilitating angiogenesis, matrix breakdown and cancer cell motility. Tumor associated macrophages have anti‐inflammatory properties or “alternatively” activated (M2) phenotype expressing CD204 and/or CD163. To know the role of TAMs in the growth and progression of esophageal squamous cell carcinomas (ESCCs), we calculated intratumoral CD204, CD163 or CD68 expressing macrophage count (MϕC) and CD34‐positive microvessel density (MVD) by immunohistochemistry in 70 cases of surgically resected ESCCs and compared them with the clinicopathological factors and prognosis of patients. MϕC had positive linear association with MVD. High CD204+ MϕC were significantly correlated with more malignant phenotypes including depth of tumor invasion, lymph and blood vessel invasion, lymph node metastasis as well as clinical stages. On the other hand, CD163+ MϕC did not associate with these clinicopathological factors with the exception of depth of tumor invasion and blood vessel invasion. Patients with high CD204+ MϕC ESCCs showed poor disease‐free survival (P = 0.021). Conditioned media of five ESCC cell lines (TE‐8, ‐9, ‐10, ‐11 and ‐15) induced mRNA as well as protein expression of CD204 but not of CD163 with upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor‐A mRNA in TPA treated human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP‐1. These results overall indicate that CD204 is a useful marker for TAMs contributing to the angiogenesis, progression and prognosis of ESCCs whose specific tumor microenvironment may educate macrophages to be CD204+ M2 TAMs.
Adolescents' Increasing Stress Response to Social Evaluation: Pubertal Effects on Cortisol and Alpha‐Amylase During Public Speaking
Authors: van den Bos Esther , de Rooij Mark , Miers Anne C. , Bokhorst Caroline L. , Westenberg P. Michiel
Published: May 2013

Stress responses to social evaluation are thought to increase during adolescence, which may be due to pubertal maturation. However, empirical evidence is scarce. This study is the first to investigate the relation between pubertal development and biological responses to a social‐evaluative stressor longitudinally. Participants performed the Leiden Public Speaking Task twice, with a 2‐year interval (N = 217; age at Time 1: 8–17 years). The results support an increase in sensitivity to social evaluation during adolescence. The overall cortisol and alpha‐amylase responses increased—both between and within participants—and were more strongly related to self‐reported pubertal development than to age. The cortisol response shifted from speech delivery toward anticipation. The alpha‐amylase response increased in both phases.
Patterns of recurrence of obstructing colon cancers after surgery for cure: a population‐based study
Authors: Cortet M. , Grimault A. , Cheynel N. , Lepage C. , Bouvier A. M. , Faivre J.
Published: May 2013

Aim

Little is known about patterns of recurrence in obstructing colon cancer (OCC) at a population level. The aim of this study was to determine the risk of recurrence following potentially curative surgery in OCC compared with that in uncomplicated colon cancer (CC).

Method

Data were obtained from the population‐based digestive cancer registry of Burgundy (France). Local and distant failure rates were calculated using actuarial methods. A multivariate analysis was performed using a Cox model.

Results

Obstructing colon cancer represented 8.5% of all colon cancers resected with curative intent (n = 3375). The 5‐year cumulative local recurrence rate was 14.2% for OCC and 7.6% for nonobstructing CC (P = 0.003). In the multivariate analysis, obstruction was an independent risk factor for local recurrence [hazard ratio 1.53 (1.01–2.34), P = 0.047]. The risk of local recurrence increased with advanced stage and age at diagnosis. The 5‐year cumulative rate for distant metastases was also higher in OCC than in nonobstructing CC (36.1 vs 23.1%; P < 0.001). The relative risk of distant metastasis was borderline significant in the multivariate analysis [hazard ratio 1.25 (0.99–1.59), P = 0.057]. Stage at diagnosis, macroscopic type of growth, period of diagnosis and sex were also significant prognostic factors. Age and subsite were not significant in the multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

It is possible to conduct special surveys in population‐based registries to determine the recurrence rate of CC. Recurrence remains a substantial problem and is more frequent in OCC than in nonobstructing CC. Efforts must be made to diagnose CC earlier. Mass screening is a promising approach.
Are 25 SNPs from the CARDIoGRAM study associated with ischaemic stroke?
Authors: Lövkvist H. , Sjögren M. , Höglund P. , Engström G. , Jern C. , Olsson S. , Smith J. G. , Hedblad B. , Andsberg G. , Delavaran H. , Jood K. , Kristoffersson U. , Norrving B. , Melander O. , Lindgren A.
Published: May 2013

Background and purpose

The Coronary Artery Disease Genome‐Wide Replication and Meta‐Analysis Study (CARDIoGRAM) reported 25 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) on 15 chromosomes to be associated with coronary artery disease (CAD) risk. Because common vascular risk factors are shared between CAD and ischaemic stroke (IS), these SNPs may also be related to IS overall or one or more of its pathogenetic subtypes.

Methods

We performed a candidate gene study comprising 3986 patients with IS and 2459 control subjects. The 25 CAD‐associated SNPs reported by CARDIoGRAM were examined by allelic association analysis including logistic regression. Weighted and unweighted genetic risk scores (GRSs) were also compiled and likewise analysed against IS. We furthermore considered the IS main subtypes large‐vessel disease (LVD), small‐vessel disease and cardioembolic stroke [according to Trial of Org 10172 in Acute Stroke Treatment (TOAST)] separately.

Results

SNP rs4977574 on chromosome 9p21.3 was associated with overall IS [odds ratio (OR) = 1.12; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.04–1.20; P = 0.002] as well as LVD (OR = 1.36; 95% CI: 1.13–1.64; P = 0.001). No other SNP was significantly associated with IS or any of its main subtypes. Analogously, the GRSs did not show any noticeable effect.

Conclusions

Besides the previously reported association with SNPs on chromosome 9p21, this study did not detect any significant association between IS and CAD‐susceptible genetic variants. Also, GRSs compiled from these variants did not predict IS or any pathogenetic IS subtype, despite a total sample size of 6445 participants.
Specific inhibition of PI3K p110δ inhibits CSF‐1‐induced macrophage spreading and invasive capacity
Authors: Mouchemore Kellie A. , Sampaio Natalia G. , Murrey Michael W. , Stanley E. Richard , Lannutti Brian J. , Pixley Fiona J.
Published: May 2013

Colony stimulating factor‐1 (CSF‐1) stimulates mononuclear phagocytic cell survival, growth and differentiation into macrophages through activation and autophosphorylation of the CSF‐1 receptor (CSF‐1R). We have previously demonstrated that CSF‐1‐induced phosphorylation of Y721 (pY721) in the receptor kinase insert triggers its association with the p85 regulatory subunit of phosphoinositide 3′‐kinase (PI3K). Binding of p85 PI3K to the CSF‐1R pY721 motif activates the associated p110 PI3K catalytic subunit and stimulates spreading and motility in macrophages and enhancement of tumor cell invasion. Here we show that pY721‐based signaling is necessary for CSF‐1‐stimulated PtdIns(3,4,5)P production. While primary bone marrow‐derived macrophages and the immortalized bone marrow‐derived macrophage cell line M−/−.WT express all three class IA PI3K isoforms, p110δ predominates in the cell line. Treatment with p110δ‐specific inhibitors demonstrates that the hematopoietically enriched isoform, p110δ, mediates CSF‐1‐regulated spreading and invasion in macrophages. Thus GS‐1101, a potent and selective p110δ inhibitor, may have therapeutic potential by targeting the infiltrative capacity of tumor‐associated macrophages that is critical for their enhancement of tumor invasion and metastasis.
The formation and sequestration of heterochromatin during development
Authors: Gonzalez‐Sandoval Adriana , Towbin Benjamin D. , Gasser Susan M.
Published: May 2013

Chromatin is not randomly positioned in the nucleus, but is distributed in subdomains based on its degree of compaction and transcriptional status. Recent studies have shed light on the logic of chromatin distribution, showing that tissue‐specific promoters drive distinct patterns of gene positioning during cell‐type differentiation. In addition, the sequestration of heterochromatin at the nuclear envelope has been found to depend on lamin and lamin‐associated proteins. On the chromatin side, H3K9 monomethylation, dimethylation and trimethylation were shown to be the critical signals for perinuclear anchoring in worm embryonic nuclei. Downregulation of an equivalent histone methyltransferase, G9a, in human cells has a similar effect. In worms, the sequestration of the terminal methyltransferase by repressed chromatin may facilitate the propagation of a heterochromatin compartment, much as the sequestration of the silent information regulatory complex does at telomeric foci in budding yeast. These results argue for conserved logic in eukaryotic nuclear organization.
Tankyrases as drug targets
Authors: Lehtiö Lari , Chi Nai‐Wen , Krauss Stefan
Published: May 2013

Tankyrase 1 and tankyrase 2 are poly(ADP‐ribosyl)ases that are distinguishable from other members of the enzyme family by the structural features of the catalytic domain, and the presence of a sterile α‐motif multimerization domain and an ankyrin repeat protein‐interaction domain. Tankyrases are implicated in a multitude of cellular functions, including telomere homeostasis, mitotic spindle formation, vesicle transport linked to glucose metabolism, Wnt–β‐catenin signaling, and viral replication. In these processes, tankyrases interact with target proteins, catalyze poly(ADP‐ribosyl)ation, and regulate protein interactions and stability. The proposed roles of tankyrases in disease‐relevant cellular processes have made them attractive drug targets. Recently, several inhibitors have been identified. The selectivity and potency of these small molecules can be rationalized by how they fit within the NAD+‐binding groove of the catalytic domain. Some molecules bind to the nicotinamide subsite, such as generic diphtheria toxin‐like ADP‐ribosyltransferase inhibitors, whereas others bind to a distinct adenosine subsite that diverges from other diphtheria toxin‐like ADP‐ribosyltransferases and confers specificity. A highly potent dual‐site inhibitor is also available. Within the last few years, tankyrase inhibitors have proved to be useful chemical probes and potential lead compounds, especially for specific cancers.
Differential scanning calorimetry evaluation of oxidation stability of docosahexaenoic acid in microalgae cells and their extracts
Authors: Santagapita Patricio , Rosa Silvina , Mazzobre María Florencia , Cueto Mario , de Pilar Buera María , Galvagno Miguel
Published: May 2013

The aim of this work was to evaluate the oxidative stability of docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) from Aurantiochytrium limacinum SR21 microalgae cells and in their lipidic extract by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Besides, freezing was evaluated as a strategy for microalgal DHA long‐term conservation by analysing changes in their thermal properties. As a first approach, mixtures of the most representative A. limacinum SR21‐fatty acids were evaluated in model systems. DHA and palmitic acid were the major polyunsaturated and saturated fatty acids produced by the microalgae cells, respectively. Changes in DHA/palmitic acid ratio in model systems, in cells and their lipidic extracts, were detected by DSC through shifts in the oxidation onset temperature (OOT) values. However, OOT values of cells and lipidic extracts could be also influenced by cellular compartmentalisation, carotenoids and other components presence. Freezing was not a good strategy for DHA long‐term conservation, as revealed by OOT values and thermal properties, which reflected the extensive changes that occurred during storage.
Physical properties of a barley protein/nano‐clay composite film containing grapefruit seed extract and antimicrobial benefits for packaging of Agaricus bisporus
Authors: Shin Yoon‐Ji , Song Hye‐Yeon , Jo Wan‐Shin , Lee Mi‐Ja , Song Kyung Bin
Published: May 2013

Barley protein (BP) was extracted from barley flour, and a BP film was prepared. To improve the physical properties of the BP film, nano‐clay was incorporated. Among the films prepared, the composite film containing 4% BP/1% Cloisite Na+ had the best physical property. The composite film containing grapefruit seed extract (GSE) was prepared and used as a packaging film for the button mushroom. Packing of the mushroom with this film inhibited microbial growth during storage. After 7 days of storage, packaging of mushrooms with the film containing 0.7% GSE reduced the populations of total aerobic bacteria and yeast and moulds by 0.95 and 0.58 log CFU/g, respectively, compared with the control. These results suggest that the BP/Cloisite Na+ film containing GSE can be used as an environment‐friendly packaging for maintaining mushroom quality during storage.
Fas‐associated factor 1 plays a negative regulatory role in the antibacterial immunity of Locusta migratoria
Authors: He Z. , Wang P. , Shi H. , Si F. , Hao Y. , Chen B.
Published: May 2013

Insect immune responses are precisely regulated to maintain immune balance. In this study, the Fas‐associated factor 1 (FAF1) gene of Locusta migratoria manilensis, a homologue of the caspar gene that functions as a specific negative regulator in the antibacterial immunity pathway, was cloned. Gene expression analysis showed that FAF1 was expressed throughout the developmental stages and in all tested tissues, but its transcription levels varied significantly. Thus, FAF1 appears to be tightly regulated and is probably involved in multiple physiological processes. In addition, the antimicrobial peptide gene prolixicin was cloned and characterized. After bacterial challenge, prolixicin was rapidly up‐regulated, whereas FAF1 was markedly down‐regulated. This result was consistent with the observation that prolixicin was hyperactivated when FAF1 was suppressed by RNA interference. Moreover, after bacterial infection, the survival rate of FAF1‐knockdown locusts was much higher than that of the wild‐type. Taken together, these findings strongly suggest that FAF1 shares a similar function as caspar in Drosophila and may be involved in the negative regulation of antibacterial immunity in locusts.
Patent Races with Secrecy
Authors: Kwon Illoong
Published: May 2013

Firms do not always patent their innovations. Instead, they often rely on secrecy to appropriate the returns of innovations. This paper endogenizes firms’ patent propensity, and shows that when the equilibrium patent propensity is small, strengthening patent protection can decrease firms’ incentive to innovate. Paradoxically, this result holds precisely when a stronger patent policy induces more patent applications. Also, these results can arise even in the simplest patent race model with independent innovations as well as with complementary innovations.
Niobium‐Doped Titania Photocatalyst Film Prepared via a Nonaqueous Sol‐Gel Method
Authors: Joshi Bhavana N. , Yoon Hyun , van Hest Maikel F. A. M. , Yoon Sam S.
Published: May 2013

Niobium‐doped Titanium dioxide (Nb:TiO2) transparent films were successfully deposited on glass substrates using a non‐aqueous sol‐gel spin coating technique. The effect of Nb concentration on the structural and photocatalytic properties of Nb:TiO2 films was studied using X‐ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), atomic force microscopy (AFM), and UV visible spectroscopy. The films with 12 at.% (atomic percent) Nb doped TiO2 showed excellent photocatalytic activity through 97.3% degradation of methylene blue (MB) after 2 h of UV irradiation.
An Inordinate Fondness? The Number, Distributions, and Origins of Diatom Species
Authors: Mann David G. , Vanormelingen Pieter
Published: May 2013

The number of extant species of diatoms is estimated here to be at least 30,000 and probably ca. 100,000, by extrapolation from an eclectic sample of genera and species complexes. Available data, although few, indicate that the pseudocryptic species being discovered in many genera are not functionally equivalent. Molecular sequence data show that some diatom species are ubiquitously dispersed. A good case can be made that at least some diatom species and even a few genera are endemics, but many such claims are still weak. The combination of very large species numbers and relatively rapid dispersal in diatoms is inconsistent with some versions of the “ubiquity hypothesis” of protist biogeography, and appears paradoxical. However, population genetic data indicate geographical structure in all the (few) marine and freshwater species that have been examined in detail, sometimes over distances of a few tens of kilometres. The mode of speciation may often be parapatric, in the context of a constantly shifting mosaic of temporarily isolated (meta) populations, but if our “intermediate dispersal hypothesis” is true (that long‐distance dispersal is rare, but not extremely rare), allopatric speciation could also be maximized.
Termite Hindguts and the Ecology of Microbial Communities in the Sequencing Age
Authors: Tai Vera , Keeling Patrick J.
Published: May 2013

Advances in high‐throughput nucleic acid sequencing have improved our understanding of microbial communities in a number of ways. Deeper sequence coverage provides the means to assess diversity at the resolution necessary to recover ecological and biogeographic patterns, and at the same time single‐cell genomics provides detailed information about the interactions between members of a microbial community. Given the vastness and complexity of microbial ecosystems, such analyses remain challenging for most environments, so greater insight can also be drawn from analysing less dynamic ecosystems. Here, we outline the advantages of one such environment, the wood‐digesting hindgut communities of termites and cockroaches, and how it is a model to examine and compare both protist and bacterial communities. Beyond the analysis of diversity, our understanding of protist community ecology will depend on using statistically sound sampling regimes at biologically relevant scales, transitioning from discovery‐based to experimental ecology, incorporating single‐cell microbiology and other data sources, and continued development of analytical tools.
Clinical signs of barotrauma in golden perch, Macquaria ambigua (Richardson), and associated effects on post‐release mortality and health
Authors: Hall K C , Broadhurst M K , Butcher P A
Published: May 2013

This study assessed the effects of different retrieval depths (2, 10 or 20 m), surface intervals (none or 15 min) and release methods (untreated, vented or recompressed) on the incidence of external and internal clinical signs of barotrauma (ECSB and ICSB) and post‐release mortality in golden perch, Macquaria ambigua (Richardson). Fish were assessed for ECSB before and after surface intervals and either monitored for mortality over 3 days in two deep cages or killed for internal examination. When all fish were left untreated, short‐term mortality increased with retrieval depth from 0% and 4.2% among 2 and 10‐m fish, respectively, to 19.2% among 20‐m fish; while surface interval only affected the incidence of two ECSB (excess buoyancy and a prolapsed cloaca). Mortality was also greater among 20‐m fish that were subjected to a 15‐min surface interval and left untreated (22.2%) or vented (22.2%) than those that were recompressed (5.6%). Of the ECSB, only exophthalmia was associated with increased mortality, with half of the affected fish dying. However, many fish retrieved from 10 and 20 m also sustained numerous ICSB, including compressed gonads or vital organs and ruptured or collapsed, haemorrhaging swimbladders that remained deflated for up to 3 days after release.