bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Do normal Egyptians possess anti‐desmoglein 3 antibodies?
Authors: Saleh Marwah A. , El‐Bahy Mohamed M.
Published: September 2014

Background

Pemphigus is a group of autoimmune blistering diseases targeting the cell–cell adhesion molecules, desmogleins (Dsgs). Anti‐Dsg antibodies, the hallmark of the disease, were not detected in normal individuals in many populations. In spite of the rarity of pemphigus vulgaris (PV) disease in many parts of the world, PV is not rare in Egypt. The purpose of the present study is to investigate the presence of anti‐Dsg3 antibodies in normal Egyptians aiming to determine the reason for the increase in number of patients in Egypt with pemphigus.

Methods

Anti‐Dsg3 antibodies were evaluated in 200 normal human sera, 20 first‐degree relatives with PV in comparison with 10 patients with PV as controls using the enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique.

Results

Fourteen of 200 (7%) normal individuals and two of 20 (10%) first‐degree relatives with PV had anti‐Dsg3 antibodies using enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay technique, and 11 of 16 were still positive after confirmation by indirect immunofluorescence. The sera were positive for IgG1, IgG3, and IgG4 subclasses. The presence of IgG4 subclass in normal individuals is suggestive that they may be in the preclinical stage and therefore are at higher risk to develop the PV disease.

Conclusion

The study proved the presence of anti‐Dsg3 antibodies in normal Egyptians with significant relation to some environmental factors. Follow‐up of those individuals is necessary to determine who will develop the disease and the triggering factors.
Tracheal Resection and Anastomosis After Traumatic Tracheal Stenosis in a Horse
Authors: Barnett Timothy P. , Hawkes Claire S. , Dixon Padraic M.
Published: September 2014

Objectives

To report a resection and anastomosis technique to treat trauma‐induced tracheal stenosis.

Study Design

Case report.

Animals

A 9‐year‐old Warmblood gelding.

Methods

Endoscopy, radiography, and ultrasonography were used to diagnose a single ring tracheal stenosis; the stenotic region was resected and adjacent tracheal rings anastomosed with an end‐to‐end technique.

Results

The anastomosis healed completely despite formation of a unilateral partial mucosal stenosis “web,” which was subsequently removed by transendoscopic laser surgery. During tracheal anastomosis, the left recurrent laryngeal nerve was damaged, causing laryngeal hemiplegia, later treated successfully by laryngoplasty. The horse returned to its previous level of work.

Conclusions

This tracheal resection and anastomosis technique successfully provided the horse with a large tracheal lumen, and despite major complications, allowed a return to full athletic work.
Photoluminescence and Temperature Dependent Electrical Properties of Er‐Doped 0.94Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3 Ceramics
Authors: Hu Bin , Pan Zhao , Dai Ming , Guo Fei‐Fei , Ning Huanpo , Gu Zheng‐Bin , Chen Jun , Lu Ming‐Hui , Zhang Shan‐Tao , Yang Bin , Cao Wenwu
Published: September 2014

Er‐doped 0.94Bi0.5Na0.5TiO3‐0.06BaTiO3 (BNT‐6BT: xEr, x is the molar ratio of Er3+ doping) lead‐free piezoceramics with x = 0–0.02 were prepared and their multifunctional properties have been comprehensively investigated. Our results show that Er‐doping has significant effects on morphology of grain, photoluminescence, dielectric, and ferroelectric properties of the ceramics. At room temperature, the green (550 nm) and red (670 nm) emissions are enhanced by Er‐doping, reaching the strongest emission intensity when x = 0.0075. The complex and composition‐dependent effects of electric poling on photoluminescence also have been measured. As for electrical properties, on the one hand, Er‐doping tends to flatten the dielectric constant‐temperature (εr‐T) curves, leading to temperature‐insensitive dielectric constant in a wide temperature range (50°C–300°C). On the other hand, Er‐doping significantly decreases the ferroelectric‐relaxor transition temperature (TF–R) and depolarization temperature (Td), with the TF–R decreasing from 76°C to 42°C for x = 0–0.02. As a result, significant composition‐dependent electrical features were found in ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties at room temperature. In general, piezoelectric and ferroelectric properties tend to become weaker, as confirmed by the composition‐dependent piezoelectric coefficient (d33), planar coupling factor (kp), and the shape of polarization‐electric field (P–E), current‐electric field (J–E), bipolar/unipolar strain‐electric field (S–E) curves. Furthermore, to understand the relationship between the TF–R/Td and the electrical properties, the composition of x = 0.0075 has been intensively studied. Our results indicate that the BNT‐6BT: xEr with appropriate Er‐doping may be a promising multifunctional material with integrated photoluminescence and electrical properties for practical applications.
A reaction norm model approach to estimate the genetic effect of temperature on sportive performance of trotter horses
Authors: Dolores Gómez M. , Menéndez‐Buxadera A. , Valera M. , Molina A.
Published: September 2014

The performance results of Spanish Trotter Horses were merged with the information from the nearest official weather stations, to estimate the effects of temperature (T) on speed during the day of the race. The resulting data set included: 104 125 individual results from 7653 races with 3772 participant horses and driven by 1402 jockeys. After a classical repeatability animal model in which the effects ofTwere assumed null, a total of five different random regression models (RRM) with the same fixed part were applied in a parsimonious nested process in which the (co)variance components for each random effect were estimated considering homo/heterogeneous responses across the trajectory ofTduring the race. The results demonstrate that performance is better whenTincreases from 4°C to 12°C, followed by a comfort zone (12–19°C) and a light but more stressful zone (>20°C). A significant change in theTduring 20 years (+4°C) was observed whilst the speed of the race improved by +2.1 m/s during the same period. The information criterion (LogL,AICandBIC) confirmed the existence of heterogeneity of (co)variance components along the trajectory of T scale. The model in whichTeffect was assumed non‐constant across the T scale for animal genetic effects; the individual environmental permanent effects and the jockey effects fit the data better. Heritability had higher values (0.19–0.20) whenTwas <12°C and slightly decreases within the comfort and stressful zones. Genetic correlations were high and, as was expected, it decreases when difference betweenTincreases. The best 150 animals for speed during the comfort zone were selected according to the Expected Breeding Value (EBV) estimated with the bestRRM, and important variations were detected in the evolution ofEBVacross the trajectory ofT. The presence of a genetic base related toTeffect during the race in this type of performance is demonstrated.
Testing diversification models of endemic Philippine forest mice (Apomys) with nuclear phylogenies across elevational gradients reveals repeated colonization of isolated mountain ranges
Authors: Justiniano Rebecca , Schenk John J. , Balete Danilo S. , Rickart Eric A. , Esselstyn Jacob A. , Heaney Lawrence R. , Steppan Scott J.
Published: September 2014

Aim

Our aims were to document the extent of diversification in an endemic clade of small mammals (Apomys, subgenus Megapomys) on a large oceanic island and to test whether speciation occurred primarily (1) along isolated elevational gradients or (2) among montane areas, as would be expected if diversification were driven by glacial cycles.

Location

The Philippine archipelago, particularly Luzon Island and two smaller adjacent islands (Mindoro and Lubang).

Methods

We analysed newly generated nuclear DNA sequences from five unlinked genes and mitochondrial cytochrome b using concatenation (likelihood and Bayesian) and coalescent‐based methods to estimate the species tree for all 13 species. We tested a priori models of speciation using both topological constraints and reconstructed elevational ranges of ancestors.

Results

All individual gene trees recovered at least four of the morphologically defined Megapomys species as monophyletic, while the concatenated approaches recovered all 13 species as monophyletic. Each species was confined to a single mountain range or off‐shore island. Most mountain ranges had two species, but these species pairs usually were not sisters. Megapomys originated at medium to high elevation followed by three transitions into lower elevations and possibly one to high elevation. Both a priori models of speciation (elevational gradient and glacial cycle) were rejected by topology tests. The speciation rate was approximately constant through time.

Main conclusions

Nuclear sequence data strongly corroborated the species status of recently described taxa. A well‐supported phylogeny showed that Megapomys diversified by splitting into a predominantly high‐elevation clade and an entirely low‐elevation clade. Neither adaptation along elevational gradients on single mountain ranges nor vicariance of high‐elevation species following glacial cycle‐induced dispersals fitted the data. Rather, the most likely process explaining species distributions is repeated colonization of isolated mountain ranges by distantly related species.
Infectious eczematoid dermatitis: a comprehensive review
Authors: Yamany T. , Schwartz R.A.
Published: September 2014

Infectious eczematoid dermatitis (IED) is characterized by an acute eczematous eruption triggered by purulent discharge from a primary infected site. Alcohol consumption, cigarette smoking and occupations with higher incidences of contact dermatitis portend increased risk for IED. Staphylococcus aureus is the most commonly cultured microbe from affected skin, with Streptococcus species the second most. Patients are first evident with peripherally spreading vesicles and pustules radiating from an infected site. Older areas of involvement become crusty, scaly and erythematous. Diagnosis is clinical. Other eczematous rashes, including autoeczemitization and contact dermatitis, should be on the differential diagnosis list. The treatment centres on topical antibiotics and soaks. Prognosis has improved since the advent of antibiotics. However, cases with multiple relapses and poor response to therapy are still observed.
The PKA RIα/A‐kinase anchoring proteins 10 signaling pathway and the prognosis of colorectal cancer
Authors: Wang Mojin , Li Yuan , Wang Rui , Wang Ziqiang , Chen Keling , Zhou Bin , Zhou Zongguang , Sun Xiaofeng
Published: September 2014

Background and Aim

Previously study showed that the loss of the control of cAMP‐dependent protein kinase A RIα (PKA RIα)/ A‐kinase anchoring proteins 10 (AKAP10) signaling pathway initiate dysregulation of cellular healthy physiology leading to tumorigenesis. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of PKA RIα/AKAP10 signaling pathway in colorectal cancer (CRC).

Methods

The AKAP10 expression at the mRNA and protein level have been analyzed in colon cancer cell lines, primary CRCs and matched normal mucosa samples, and compared in accordance with specific clinicopathological features of CRC. The correlation between expression of AKAP10 and PKA RIα were also analyzed.

Results

Compared with HCT116 and SW480 cells, the AKAP10 was significantly upregulated in the colon cell line KM12C and its metastatic counterparts, KM12SM and KM12L4A. Moreover, the KM12SM and KM12L4A having high metastatic potentials displayed the elevated levels of AKAP10 compared with KM12C having poor metastatic potential. A notably higher level of AKAP10 expression was found in CRC tissues at both mRNA and protein levels. Increased expression of AKAP10 in CRC patients was positively associated with the depth of invasion and the grade of differentiation. Univariate survival analysis showed that the increased expression of AKAP10 was related to poorer survival. Cox multivariate regression analysis confirmed that AKAP10 was an independent predictor of the overall survival of CRC patients. PKA RIα mRNA was also expressed at high levels in CRC. The correlation coefficient between mRNA expression of AKAP10 and PKA RIα in CRC was 0.417. AKAP10 mRNA overexpression was correlated significantly with PKA RIα.

Conclusions

Our data indicated that PKA RIα/AKAP10 signaling pathway is associated with the progression and prognosis of CRC.
Validation of fatty acid intakes estimated by a food frequency questionnaire using erythrocyte fatty acid profiling in the Montreal Heart Institute Biobank
Authors: Turcot V. , Brunet J. , Daneault C. , Tardif J. C. , Des Rosiers C. , Lettre G.
Published: September 2014

Background

To improve the prevention, treatment and risk prediction of cardiovascular diseases, genetic markers and gene–diet interactions are currently being investigated. The Montreal Heart Institute (MHI) Biobank is suitable for such studies because of its large sample size (currently, n = 17 000), the availability of biospecimens, and the collection of data on dietary intakes of saturated (SFAs) and n‐3 and n‐6 polyunsaturated (PUFAs) fatty acids estimated from a 14‐item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). We tested the validity of the FFQ by correlating dietary intakes of these fatty acids with their red blood cell (RBC) content in MHI Biobank participants.

Methods

Seventy‐five men and 75 women were selected from the Biobank. We successfully obtained RBC fatty acids for 142 subjects using gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Spearman correlation coefficients were used to test whether SFA scores and daily intakes (g day−1) of n‐3 and n‐6 PUFAs correlate with their RBC content.

Results

Based on covariate‐adjusted analyses, intakes of n‐3 PUFAs from vegetable sources were significantly correlated with RBC α‐linolenic acid levels (ρ = 0.23, P = 0.007), whereas n‐3 PUFA intakes from marine sources correlated significantly with RBC eicosapentaenoic acid (ρ = 0.29, P = 0.0008) and docosahexaenoic acid (ρ = 0.41, P = 9.2 × 10–7) levels. Intakes of n‐6 PUFAs from vegetable sources correlated with RBC linoleic acid (ρ = 0.18, P = 0.04). SFA scores were not correlated with RBC total SFAs.

Conclusions

The MHI Biobank 14‐item FFQ can appropriately estimate daily intakes of n‐3 PUFAs from vegetable and marine sources, as well as vegetable n‐6 PUFAs, which enables the possibility of using these data in future studies.
Mothers with intellectual impairment and their 9‐month‐old infants
Authors: Hindmarsh G. , Llewellyn G. , Emerson E.
Published: September 2014

Background

Few studies have utilised population‐based data to examine the lives of families headed by parents with intellectual impairment. This study examined the health and social context of mothers with intellectual impairment compared with their peers without intellectual impairment, and the 9‐month developmental outcomes of their infants.

Method

Secondary analysis of the first wave of the United Kingdom's Millennium Cohort Study (MCS). Wave 1 data were collected when the child was 9 months of age and recorded in‐depth information of maternal health, the social context in which the families live, and developmental outcomes of the infants.

Results

Of the 18 189 mothers, 74 (0.4%) were classified as mothers with intellectual impairment. The findings show evidence of widespread disadvantage in terms of social context and poorer self‐reported physical health for mothers with intellectual impairment compared with their peers without intellectual impairment. Maternal mental health and the developmental outcomes of their 9‐month infants were not markedly different between the two groups.

Conclusions

The cross‐sectional analyses used in this study shows the differences in the lives of mothers with intellectual impairment and their young infants compared with their peers. Longitudinal analyses across subsequent waves of the MCS will allow protective and risk factors in the early years that influence later developmental outcomes to be identified.
Complexities of medicines safety: communicating about managing medicines at transition points of care across emergency departments and medical wards
Authors: Manias Elizabeth , Gerdtz Marie , Williams Allison , Dooley Michael
Published: September 2014

Aims and objectives

To explore how health professionals, patients and family members communicate about managing medicines across transition points of care in two Australian public hospitals.

Background

Medicines errors are common at transition points of care. Little qualitative work has targeted communicating about medicines management across patients' journeys from admission through to discharge.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study was undertaken.

Methods

In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews were conducted with patients and family members, and focus groups and interviews were undertaken with doctors, nurses and pharmacists (n = 103). These individuals were situated in emergency departments and general medical wards. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Four themes were identified: contextual environment of care, competing responsibilities of care, awareness of responsibility for safety, and interprofessional communication. Contextual environment of care was affected by time pressure and efficiency, and an overriding priority to move patients out of emergency departments. In competing responsibilities of care, a reactive focus was displayed in emergency departments while a proactive stance was demonstrated in medical wards. There was an awareness of responsibility for safety, whereby key stakeholders appreciated the chain of events involved, interpersonal communication affected patients and carers, and consequences existed for patient education related to lack of information. Interdisciplinary communication was associated with communication modalities used in encounters, compartmentalised thinking, and medicines changes relayed to external providers.

Conclusions

Medicines management at transition points involved a complex interplay of dynamic features. This interplay infiltrated across diverse environments, affecting patient care within and outside hospitals.

Relevance to clinical practice

Health professionals require greater appreciation of each other's roles at transition points of care. Prioritisation of high‐risk patients is needed, such as those with cognitive impairment and multiple co‐morbidities. Establishing workable protocols of communication etiquette and a structured approach to medicines activities may assist in pre‐empting problems before they occur.
The Real Product Market Impact of Mergers
Authors: SHEEN ALBERT
Published: September 2014

I document sources of value creation in mergers by analyzing novel data on the quality and price of goods sold by merging firms. When two competitors in a product market merge, their products converge in quality, and prices fall relative to the competition. These effects take two to three years to be fully realized and are stronger in mature industries. Prices do not fall, however, when the acquirer is diversifying into a new product market. This direct evidence of real changes induced by merger activity is consistent with consolidation by related merging firms to achieve operational efficiencies and lower costs.
The effects of diallyl sulfide upon Porphyromonas gingivalis lipopolysaccharide stimulated proinflammatory cytokine expressions and nuclear factor‐kappa B activation in human gingival fibroblasts
Authors: Fu E. , Tsai M.‐C. , Chin Y.‐T. , Tu H.‐P. , Fu M. M. , Chiang C.‐Y. , Chiu H.‐C.
Published: September 2014

Background and Objective

Diallyl sulfide (DAS), a flavor compound from garlic, has varied potential therapeutic activities. Periodontitis is a disease that develops because of host‐mediated inflammation to periodontal pathogens. In this study, the effects of DAS on the common proinflammatory cytokines and nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) in human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs) being stimulated with lipopolysaccharide from Porphyromonas gingivalis, a potent periodontal pathogen, were evaluated.

Material and Methods

Cytotoxicities of DAS and lipopolysaccharide on HGFs were measured with MTS assay. The mRNA and protein expressions of proinflammatory cytokines, including interleukin (IL)‐1β, IL‐6 and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α, from the HGFs treated with lipopolysaccharide with and without DAS were examined with reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction and immunocytochemistry, respectively. In addition, the activation and nuclear translocation of NF‐κB with and without DAS were compared.

Results

DAS and lipopolysaccharide treatments within 3 mm and 10 μg/mL, respectively, did not affect the survival rate of HGFs. Lipopolysaccharide (1 μg/mL) significantly increased the mRNA expressions of IL‐1β, IL‐6 and TNF‐α; however, DAS (1 mm) inhibited these expressions. The protein expressions of TNF‐α, IL‐1β, as well as the NF‐κB nuclear translocation were increased after lipopolysaccharide treatment, but decreased when there was a DAS pretreatment.

Conclusion

DAS diminished P. gingivalis lipopolysaccharide‐stimulated cytokine expression and NF‐κB activation in HGFs; we therefore suggest DAS may be beneficial on periodontal inflammation.
Rural/Urban Residence, Access, and Perceived Need for Treatment Among African American Cocaine Users
Authors: Borders Tyrone F. , Booth Brenda M. , Stewart Katharine E. , Cheney Ann M. , Curran Geoffrey M.
Published: September 2014

Objective

To examine how rural/urban residence, perceived access, and other factors impede or facilitate perceived need for drug use treatment, a concept closely linked to treatment utilization.

Study Design

Two hundred rural and 200 urban African American cocaine users who were not receiving treatment were recruited via Respondent‐Driven Sampling and completed a structured in‐person interview. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were conducted to test the associations between perceived need and rural/urban residence, perceived access, and other predisposing (eg, demographics), enabling (eg, insurance), and health factors (eg, psychiatric distress).

Principal Findings

In bivariate analyses, rural relative to urban cocaine users reported lower perceived treatment need (37% vs 48%), availability, affordability, overall ease of access, and effectiveness, as well as lower perceived acceptability of residential, outpatient, self‐help, and hospital‐based services. In multivariate analyses, there was a significant interaction between rural/urban residence and the acceptability of religious counseling. At the highest level of acceptability, rural users had lower odds of perceived need (OR = 0.21); at the lowest level, rural users had higher odds of perceived need (OR = 3.97) than urban users. Among rural users, the acceptability of religious counseling was negatively associated with perceived need (OR = 0.65). Ease of access was negatively associated (OR = 0.71) whereas local treatment effectiveness (OR = 1.47) and the acceptability of hospital‐based treatment (OR = 1.29) were positively associated with perceived need among all users.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest rural/urban disparities in perceived need and access to drug use treatment. Among rural and urban cocaine users, improving perceptions of treatment effectiveness and expanding hospital‐based services could promote treatment seeking.
Block Bootstrap Theory for Multivariate Integrated and Cointegrated Processes
Authors: Jentsch Carsten , Politis Dimitris N. , Paparoditis Efstathios
Published: September 2014

We develop some asymptotic theory for applications of block bootstrap resampling schemes to multivariate integrated and cointegrated time series. It is proved that a multivariate, continuous‐path block bootstrap scheme applied to a full rank integrated process succeeds in estimating consistently the distribution of the least squares estimators in both the regression and the spurious regression case. Furthermore, it is shown that the same block resampling scheme does not succeed in estimating the distribution of the parameter estimators in the case of cointegrated time series. For this situation, a modified block resampling scheme, the so‐called residual‐based block bootstrap, is investigated, and its validity for approximating the distribution of the regression parameters is established. The performance of the proposed block bootstrap procedures is illustrated in a short simulation study. Copyright © 2014 Wiley Publishing Ltd
K+‐channel inhibition reduces portal perfusion pressure in fibrotic rats and fibrosis associated characteristics of hepatic stellate cells
Authors: Freise Christian , Heldwein Silke , Erben Ulrike , Hoyer Joachim , Köhler Ralf , Jöhrens Korinna , Patsenker Eleonora , Ruehl Martin , Seehofer Daniel , Stickel Felix , Somasundaram Rajan
Published: September 2014

Background & Aims

In liver fibrosis, activated hepatic stellate cells (HSC) secrete excess extracellular matrix, thus, represent key targets for antifibrotic treatment strategies. Intermediate‐conductance Ca2 + ‐activated K+‐channels (KCa3.1) are expressed in non‐excitable tissues affecting proliferation, migration and vascular resistance rendering KCa3.1 potential targets in liver fibrosis. So far, no information about KCa3.1 expression and their role in HSC exists. Aim was to quantify the KCa3.1 expression in HSC depending on HSC activation and investigation of antifibrotic properties of the specific KCa3.1 inhibitor TRAM‐34 in vitro and in vivo.

Methods

KCa3.1 expression and functionality were studied in TGF‐β1–activated HSC by quantitative real time PCR, western‐blot and patch‐clamp analysis respectively. Effects of TRAM‐34 on HSC proliferation, cell cycle and fibrosis‐related gene expression were assessed by [3H]‐thymidine incorporation, FACS‐analysis and RT‐PCR respectively. In vivo, vascular resistance and KCa3.1 gene and protein expression were determined in bile duct ligated rats by in situ liver perfusion, Taqman PCR and immunohistochemistry respectively.

Results

Fibrotic tissues and TGF‐β1‐activated HSC exhibited higher KCa3.1‐expressions than normal tissue and untreated cells. KCa3.1 inhibition with TRAM‐34 reduced HSC proliferation by induction of cell cycle arrest and reduced TGF‐β1‐induced gene expression of collagen I, alpha‐smooth muscle actin and TGF‐β1 itself. Furthermore, TRAM‐34 blocked TGF‐β1‐induced activation of TGF‐β signalling in HSC. In vivo, TRAM‐34 reduced the thromboxane agonist‐induced portal perfusion pressure.

Conclusion

Inhibition of KCa3.1 with TRAM‐34 downregulates fibrosis‐associated gene expression in vitro, and reduces portal perfusion pressure in vivo. Thus, KCa3.1 may represent novel targets for the treatment of liver fibrosis.
Butterfly genomics sheds light on the process of hybrid speciation
Authors: Nadeau Nicola
Published: September 2014

How common is hybridization between species and what effect does it have on the evolutionary process? Can hybridization generate new species and what indeed is a species? In this issue, Gompert et al. (2014) show how massive, genome‐scale data sets can be used to shed light on these questions. They focus on the Lycaeides butterflies, and in particular, several populations from the western USA, which have characteristics suggesting that they may contain hybrids of two or more different species (Gompert et al. 2006). They demonstrate that these populations do contain mosaic genomes made up of components from different parental species. However, this appears to have been largely driven by historical admixture, with more recent processes appearing to be isolating the populations from each other. Therefore, these populations are on their way to becoming distinct species (if they are not already) but have arisen following extensive hybridization between other distinct populations or species (Fig. ).

There has been extensive historical admixture between Lycaeides species with some new species arising from hybrid populations. (Photo credits: Lauren Lucas, Chris Nice, and James Fordyce).

image
Temporal relationship between genetic and warning signal variation in the aposematic wood tiger moth (Parasemia plantaginis)
Authors: Galarza Juan A. , Nokelainen Ossi , Ashrafi Roghaeih , Hegna Robert H. , Mappes Johanna
Published: September 2014

Many plants and animals advertise unpalatability through warning signals in the form of colour and shape. Variation in warning signals within local populations is not expected because they are subject to directional selection. However, mounting evidence of warning signal variation within local populations suggests that other selective forces may be acting. Moreover, different selective pressures may act on the individual components of a warning signal. At present, we have a limited understanding about how multiple selection processes operate simultaneously on warning signal components, and even less about their temporal and spatial dynamics. Here, we examined temporal variation of several wing warning signal components (colour,UV‐reflectance, signal size and pattern) of two co‐occurring colour morphs of the aposematic wood tiger moth (Parasemia plantaginis). Sampling was carried out in four geographical regions over three consecutive years. We also evaluated each morph's temporal genetic structure by analysing mitochondrial sequence data and nuclear microsatellite markers. Our results revealed temporal differences between the morphs for most signal components measured. Moreover, variation occurred differently in the fore‐ and hindwings. We found no differences in the genetic structure between the morphs within years and regions, suggesting single local populations. However, local genetic structure fluctuated temporally. Negative correlations were found between variation produced by neutrally evolving genetic markers and those of the different signal components, indicating a non‐neutral evolution for most warning signal components. Taken together, our results suggest that differential selection on warning signal components and fluctuating population structure can be one explanation for the maintenance of warning signal variation in this aposematic species.
Consequences of information use in breeding habitat selection on the evolution of settlement time
Authors: Schmidt Kenneth A. , Johansson Jacob , Kristensen N. , Massol François , Jonzén N.
Published: September 2014

The role of temporal changes and spatial variability in predation risk and prey's means of mitigating such risks is poorly understood in the context of potential threats of global climate change for migratory birds. Yet nest predation, for example, represents a primary source of reproductive mortality in birds. To assess risk birds must spend time prospecting potential breeding sites for cues or signals of predator presence. However, competition for breeding sites with advantage to prior residency poses an evolutionary dilemma as individuals also benefit from early settling. We develop a model to examine adaptive prospecting time for predator cues on breeding grounds characterized by spatial heterogeneity in nest predation risk. We study how populations respond to environmental change represented by variation in habitat specific levels of nest predation, habitat composition, population vital rates, and availability of information (via prospecting) in the form of acoustic predator cues. We identify two mechanisms that regulate and buffer impacts of environmental change on populations. First, the adaptive response to lower population abundance under deteriorating environmental conditions is to increase prospecting time, which in turn increases individuals nest success to counteract population declines. This occurs because reduced competition for sites decreases the benefit of early settlement. Second, per capita success in site choice increases during population declines owing to reduced competition that increases the availability of good sites. We also show that the increased benefit to settling early when competition increases can lead to the paradoxical result that with greater spatial heterogeneity, less effort is placed on discerning good and bad sites. Our analysis thus contributes several novel results by which nest predation, settlement phenology, prospecting time and information gathering can influence species capacity to adapt to changing environments.
The effects of species properties and community context on establishment success
Authors: Gray Sarah M. , Dykhuizen Daniel E. , Padilla Dianna K.
Published: September 2014

Understanding whether factors important for species establishment in a local community are predictable or context‐ dependent is key for determining the features that affect community stability and species coexistence. A major challenge for scientists addressing this question is that natural systems are complex. This makes it difficult to test multiple properties of species and features of the resident community simultaneously to determine what factors are most important for establishment success of a species into a novel community. We used the model aquatic system inside the leaves of the pitcher plantSarracenia purpureato test whether properties predicted to be important for establishment success of a species (initial density, competitive ability, body size) are generalizable across communities varying in resource availability and the presence of a top predator. For intermediate trophic‐level species, we found that both competitive dominance and initial density were important for establishment success. Although a less competitive species was also able to successfully establish in the communities, high resource availability and high initial density were important for its establishment success. Body size of the introduced species, although correlated with competitive ability, was not an important characteristic for establishment success. The presence of a top predator significantly decreased the densities of the introduced species when resources were low, but did not completely inhibit establishment success. The relative importance of each of these factors, and interactions among them, could not have been discerned through single hypothesis testing. The results from this work show the need for detailed experiments that focus on combinations of factors to understand if mechanisms determining community assembly and species establishment can be generalized across systems.
A late embryogenesis abundant protein HVA1 regulated by an inducible promoter enhances root growth and abiotic stress tolerance in rice without yield penalty
Authors: Chen Yi‐Shih , Lo Shuen‐Fang , Sun Peng‐Kai , Lu Chung‐An , Ho Tuan‐Hua D. , Yu Su‐May
Published: September 2014

Regulation of root architecture is essential for maintaining plant growth under adverse environment. A synthetic abscisic acid (ABA)/stress‐inducible promoter was designed to control the expression of a late embryogenesis abundant protein (HVA1) in transgenic rice. The background of HVA1 is low but highly inducible by ABA, salt, dehydration and cold. HVA1 was highly accumulated in root apical meristem (RAM) and lateral root primordia (LRP) after ABA/stress treatments, leading to enhanced root system expansion. Water‐use efficiency (WUE) and biomass also increased in transgenic rice, likely due to the maintenance of normal cell functions and metabolic activities conferred by HVA1 which is capable of stabilizing proteins, under osmotic stress. HVA1 promotes lateral root (LR) initiation, elongation and emergence and primary root (PR) elongation via an auxin‐dependent process, particularly by intensifying asymmetrical accumulation of auxin in LRP founder cells and RAM, even under ABA/stress‐suppressive conditions. We demonstrate a successful application of an inducible promoter in regulating the spatial and temporal expression of HVA1 for improving root architecture and multiple stress tolerance without yield penalty.
Physiological responses related to increased grain yield under drought in the first biotechnology‐derived drought‐tolerant maize
Authors: NEMALI KRISHNA S. , BONIN CHRISTOPHER , DOHLEMAN FRANK G. , STEPHENS MIKE , REEVES WILLIAM R. , NELSON DONALD E. , CASTIGLIONI PAOLO , WHITSEL JOY E. , SAMMONS BERNARD , SILADY REBECCA A. , ANSTROM DONALD , SHARP ROBERT E. , PATHARKAR OSRIC R. , CLAY DAVID , COFFIN MARIE , NEMETH MARGARET A. , LEIBMAN MARK E. , LUETHY MICHAEL , LAWSON MARK
Published: September 2014

Maize (Zea mays ssp. mays L.) is highly susceptible to drought stress. This work focused on whole‐plant physiological mechanisms by which a biotechnology‐derived maize event expressing bacterial cold shock protein B (CspB), MON 87460, increased grain yield under drought. Plants of MON 87460 and a conventional control (hereafter ‘control’) were tested in the field under well‐watered (WW) and water‐limited (WL) treatments imposed during mid‐vegetative to mid‐reproductive stages during 2009–2011. Across years, average grain yield increased by 6% in MON 87460 compared with control under WL conditions. This was associated with higher soil water content at 0.5 m depth during the treatment phase, increased ear growth, decreased leaf area, leaf dry weight and sap flow rate during silking, increased kernel number and harvest index in MON 87460 than the control. No consistent differences were observed under WW conditions. This indicates that MON 87460 acclimated better under WL conditions than the control by lowering leaf growth which decreased water use during silking, thereby eliciting lower stress under WL conditions. These physiological responses in MON 87460 under WL conditions resulted in increased ear growth during silking, which subsequently increased the kernel number, harvest index and grain yield compared to the control.
Challenges and opportunities for quantifying roots and rhizosphere interactions through imaging and image analysis
Authors: DOWNIE H. F. , ADU M. O. , SCHMIDT S. , OTTEN W. , DUPUY L. X. , WHITE P. J. , VALENTINE T. A.
Published: September 2014

The morphology of roots and root systems influences the efficiency by which plants acquire nutrients and water, anchor themselves and provide stability to the surrounding soil. Plant genotype and the biotic and abiotic environment significantly influence root morphology, growth and ultimately crop yield. The challenge for researchers interested in phenotyping root systems is, therefore, not just to measure roots and link their phenotype to the plant genotype, but also to understand how the growth of roots is influenced by their environment. This review discusses progress in quantifying root system parameters (e.g. in terms of size, shape and dynamics) using imaging and image analysis technologies and also discusses their potential for providing a better understanding of root:soil interactions. Significant progress has been made in image acquisition techniques, however trade‐offs exist between sample throughput, sample size, image resolution and information gained. All of these factors impact on downstream image analysis processes. While there have been significant advances in computation power, limitations still exist in statistical processes involved in image analysis. Utilizing and combining different imaging systems, integrating measurements and image analysis where possible, and amalgamating data will allow researchers to gain a better understanding of root:soil interactions.
Hydroa Vacciniforme with Eye Involvement: Report of Two Cases
Authors: Mortazavi Hossein , Hejazi Pardis , Aghazadeh Nessa , Esfandiari Hamed , Ghanadan Alireza , Jahanzad Issa
Published: September 2014

We herein report two patients with hydroa vacciniforme and concomitant ophthalmic involvement, primarily in the form of keratoconjunctivitis leading to corneal opacity. Awareness of this occasional manifestation may help to prevent severe complications.
Ectodermal Defects and Anal Atresia in a Child with a TP63 Mutation‐Expanding the Phenotypic Spectrum
Authors: Ruml Jelena , Cuturilo Goran , Lukac Marija , Peters Hartmut
Published: September 2014

Ectodermal dysplasias caused by mutations in the TP63 gene comprise a group of disorders characterized by a spectrum of ectodermal changes, orofacial clefting, and split hand or foot malformation. We report on a boy with a mutation located in the DNA‐binding domain of the TP63 gene with atypical phenotype. These data provide additional evidence of the great variability seen in TP63‐related disorders and further delineation of genotype‐phenotype correlations.
Efficacy of the Airway Scope (Pentax‐AWS) for training in pediatric intubation
Authors: Sakurai Yoshio , Tamura Masanori
Published: September 2014

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of the Airway Scope (AWS) in the training of residents in pediatric intubation using high‐performance simulators.

Methods

A total of 51 residents were recruited. Baby SIM is a high‐performance simulator with a built‐in physiological program that reduces SpO2 if it stops breathing and increases SpO2 if assisted ventilation is provided using a bag mask. Therefore, real‐life situations can be simulated with this program. Trial 1: after respiration of Baby SIM was stopped, intubation was initiated. If the intubation time was too long, a built‐in physiological program led to desaturation. The intubation time and frequency of SpO2 <90% were compared between the Miller laryngoscope and the AWS. Trial 2: an ALS Baby, which is more difficult to intubate than Baby SIM, was used in comparison of intubation time and frequency of failure to intubate within 60 s between the two laryngoscopes. Mann–Whitney and chi‐squared tests were used for statistical analysis.

Results

Intubation time was significantly shorter using the AWS than the Miller laryngoscope in both trials. Furthermore, desaturation occurred significantly less frequently with the AWS than the Miller laryngoscope in trial 1. The frequency of intubation failure within 60 s was also significantly lower for the AWS than the Miller laryngoscope in trial 2.

Conclusion

The inclusion of both direct laryngoscopy and the AWS in pediatric resident programs might give pediatricians the option of using a safer and more reliable intubation method for children.
Prognosis in tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve
Authors: Kawazu Yukiko , Inamura Noboru , Ishii Ryo , Terashima Yoshino , Hamamichi Yuji , Kayatani Futoshi , Iwai Shigemitsu , Kawata Hiroaki , Kishimoto Hidefumi
Published: September 2014

Background

Tetralogy of Fallot with absent pulmonary valve (TF/APV) is a rare and severe congenital heart disease with high mortality. The aim of this study was to assess whether TF/APV prognosis is related to fetal and postnatal clinical course and pulmonary artery (PA) configuration.

Methods

The fetal and postnatal echocardiograms and clinical outcomes of 13 patients with TF/APV (diagnosed antenatally in 9 patients and postnatally in 4) were reviewed, and divided into two groups: group A (n = 6), alive; and group D (n = 7), dead.

Results

Fetal period: group A, polyhydramnios n = 0, hydrops fetalis (HF) n = 0, patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) n = 2; group D, polyhydramnios n = 3, HF n = 2, PDA n = 0. Postnatal period: group A, five patients underwent intracardiac repair, including one requiring artificial ventilation (AV). A further AV patient required three operations before extubation. Postoperative courses were all good. Group D, excluding the two intrauterine fetal deaths, four patients required AV (three of whom died neonatally or in early childhood) and one underwent intracardiac repair. PA configuration: all group A patients had bulbous expansion of left and right PA (clover type). Three patients in group D had bulbous expansion of main PA (balloon type).

Conclusions

PDA was a factor associated with good prognosis. Hydramnion and HF were factors associated with poor prognosis. Given that there was a higher rate of postnatal AV and poorer prognosis in balloon type than in clover type PA (P < 0.05), PA configuration is also considered an important factor to predict postnatal outcome in TF/APV.
Technical refinement in living‐donor liver transplantation for hepatoblastoma with main portal vein tumor thrombosis – a pullout technique
Authors: Kanazawa Hiroyuki , Sakamoto Seisuke , Matsunami Masatoshi , Sasaki Kengo , Uchida Hajime , Shigeta Takanobu , Fukuda Akinari , Matsumoto Kimikazu , Nakazawa Atsuko , Tanaka Ryuhei , Kasahara Mureo
Published: September 2014

We present a case of a two‐yr‐old boy diagnosed with HBT with complete main PVTT. HBT was located in the bilateral lobe with PVTT involving the confluence of the SMV and the SpV. Cisplatin‐based neoadjuvant chemotherapy was delivered; main tumor shrank and AFP levels decreased to below one hundredth. However, PVTT remained in the bilateral portal branches to the main trunk of PV. We describe the technical details of the portal venous tumor thrombectomy that was succeeded by a LDLT. The patient remained healthy 2.5 yr after LDLT, showing good patency of the PV with no evidence of recurrence of tumor.
Development of Refractoriness of HO‐1 Induction to a Second Treatment with UVA Radiation and the Involvement of Nrf2 in Human Skin Fibroblasts
Authors: Zhong Julia Li , Raval Chintan M. , Nisar Muhammad Farrukh , Bian ChunXiang , Zhang Jin , Yang Li , Tyrrell Rex M.
Published: September 2014

UVA treatment of cultured human skin fibroblasts (FEK4) has been shown previously to reduce transcriptional activation of heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) following a second dose of UVA radiation, a phenomenon known as refractoriness. This study demonstrates that the levels of HO‐1 protein are also reduced after a second dose of UVA radiation as are Nrf2 levels, and there is less accumulation of Nrf2 in the nucleus where as Bach1 does accumulate in the nucleus. Cell viability is further reduced and cell membrane damage increased as compared with a single UVA treatment when an initial UVA treatment was followed by a second dose. Knockdown of Nrf2 by siRNA (siNrf2) targeting caused additional refractoriness of HO‐1 protein induction to a second UVA or heme treatment and this treatment also further enhanced cell damage by a second dose of UVA radiation. However, transfection with Nrf2 caused less refractoriness of HO‐1 to a second dose of UVA and reduced cell damage by a second dose of UVA radiation. These findings are consistent with the proposal that Nrf2 is involved in HO‐1 refractoriness and could serve as a cytoprotective factor against cell damage caused by repeated exposure to moderate doses of UVA radiation. We propose that protection by the Nrf2‐HO‐1 pathway protection may have clinical relevance since human skin is exposed repeatedly to UVA radiation.
The Effects of Supply on Mazzaella laminarioides (Rhodophyta, Gigartinales) from Southern Chile
Authors: Navarro Nelso P. , Figueroa Félix L. , Korbee Nathalie , Mansilla Andrés , Matsuhiro Betty , Barahona Tamara , Plastino Estela M.
Published: September 2014

The effects of nitrate supply on growth, pigments, mycosporine‐like amino acids (MAAs), C:N ratios and carrageenan yield were investigated in Mazzaella laminarioides cultivated under solar radiation. This species is economically important in southern Chile where an increase of nitrogen in coastal waters is expected as a consequence of salmon aquaculture activity. Apical segments were cultivated in enriched seawater with five different concentrations (0, 0.09, 0.18, 0.38 and 0.75 mm) during 18 days. Although phycoerythrin and phycocyanin content, as well as C:N ratios, were reduced in the control treatment (without supply), when compared to treatments, total MAA concentration, carrageenan yield and growth rates were similar in all tested conditions. Nevertheless, during the experiment, an important synthesis of mycosporine‐glycine took place in a nitrate concentration‐dependent manner, with accumulation being saturated around 0.18 mm of nitrate. These results indicate that exposure to high concentration of more than 100 times the values observed in the nature did not impair the photoprotection system, as determined by MAAs, nor did it have a deleterious effect on growth or carrageenan yield of M. laminarioides, a late successional species from Chile.