bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Body Art Education
Authors: Armstrong Myrna L. , Tustin Jane , Owen Donna C. , Koch Jerome R. , Roberts Alden E.
Published: March 2013

Using the major format identified for successful prevention and intervention work, five “W” questions: what, why, whom, where, and who, plus one: how, this article first summarizes the current body art literature. Then, educational strategies specifically regarding the topic of tattoos and body piercing are presented for school nurses. These strategies can be used to create applicable, realistic information for young students before they are faced with decisions related to body art. The school nurse might be the first and only credible source of information the students receive related to body art in an education/health environment. Curriculum emphasis is on the decision making leading up to the action, and the major purposes, rather than on the markings or jewelry associated with procurement. Reducing decisional conflict while promoting positive development in the areas of empowerment, self-esteem, and maturing can help achieve stronger informed decision making.
Impact of a Healthy Nails Program on Nail-Biting in Turkish Schoolchildren
Authors: Ergun Ayse , Toprak Rumeysa , Sisman Fatma Nevin
Published: March 2013

This study was conducted to examine the effect of a healthy nails program on nail-biting in Turkish schoolchildren. This quasi-experimental study was of pretest–posttest control group design. A total of 50 students of a primary school formed the intervention group, while 53 students from the same school formed the control group. Data were collected with a demographic form, a nail-biting follow-up form, and photographs of the fingernails. It was found that 68.9% of students were biting seven or more of their nails; 46.6% had damaged nail beds. In the intervention group, the rate of the children who were not biting their nails (baseline = 0%, 4th week = 56.0%, 8th week = 64.0%) increased significantly compared to the control group (baseline = 0%, 4th week = 15.1%, 8th week = 18.9%). Outcomes indicate the efficacy of the healthy nails program in reducing the nail-biting problem in schoolchildren.
Temporary Kirschner Wire Transfixation Versus Strapping Dressing After Second MTP Joint Realignment Surgery
Authors: Holinka Johannes , Schuh Reinhard , Hofstaetter Jochen G. , Wanivenhaus Axel Hugo
Published: March 2013

Background:

Instability of the second metatarsophalageal (MTP) joint is a common disorder of the forefoot and can be addressed operatively. The objective of this study was to compare a temporary K-wire fixation (tKW) to a postoperative strapping dressing (SD) after realignment surgery of second MTP instability in combination with correction of claw toe deformity.

Methods:

Fifty-four consecutive patients with metatarsal index plus or neutral and a collective total of 62 operative interventions were examined at 10 years postoperatively. The operative intervention included dorsal capsulotomy, incision of the extensor hood, and lengthening of the extensor tendon. All operations were carried out at a single institution by orthopedic surgeons experienced in foot surgery. One team preferred fixation with tKW, whereas the other team used only noninvasive SD for postoperative management. The assessment included the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal score as well as the visual analogue scale (VAS) for pain. Kaplan Meier analysis with recurrence of subluxation as the end point was performed, and plain radiographs of the forefoot were investigated.

Results:

Survival without recurrence of second MTP subluxation was significantly higher in the tKW group (93%) compared with the SD group (88%) ( P < .001). There was no statistical significant difference in pre- to postoperative AOFAS and VAS pain between the 2 groups.

Conclusion:

Temporary K-wire fixation had a significantly lower recurrence rate of second MTP subluxation compared with postoperative SD for postoperative alignment management in second MTP instability.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, therapeutic study.
Cost Comparison
Authors: Gil Joseph , Schiff Adam P. , Pinzur Michael S.
Published: March 2013

Background:

The negative impact on health-related quality of life in patients with Charcot foot has prompted operative correction of the acquired deformity. Comparative effectiveness financial models are being introduced to provide valuable information to assist clinical decision making.

Methods:

Seventy-six patients with Charcot foot underwent operative correction with the use of circular external fixation. Thirty-eight (50%) had osteomyelitis. A control group was created from 17 diabetic patients who successfully underwent transtibial amputation and prosthetic fitting during the same period. Cost of care during the 12 months following surgery was derived from inpatient hospitalization, placement in a rehabilitation unit or skilled nursing facility, home health care including parenteral antibiotic therapy, physical therapy, and purchase of prosthetic devices or footwear.

Results:

Fifty-three of the patients with limb salvage (69.7%) did not require inpatient rehabilitation. Their average cost of care was $56,712. Fourteen of the patients with amputation (82.4%) required inpatient rehabilitation, with an average cost of $49,251.

Conclusions:

Many surgeons now favor operative correction of Charcot foot deformity. This investigation provides preliminary data on the relative cost of transtibial amputation and prosthetic limb fitting compared with limb salvage. The use of comparative effectiveness models such as this simple attempt may provide valuable information in planning resource allocation for similar complex groups of patients.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, economic and decision analysis.
Microstructure and characteristics of high-amylose corn starch−chitosan film as affected by composition
Authors: Feng Qianqian , Hu Fei , Qiu Liping
Published: March 2013

Edible films composed of high-amylose corn starch and chitosan were developed by casting method. The effects of the ratio of high-amylose corn starch to chitosan, concentration of glycerol and methyl cellulose on the oxygen and carbon dioxide permeation, water vapor transmission, tensile strength and percent elongation at break values of edible composite films were investigated. Film microstructure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The results showed that the increase of the ratio of chitosan and content of glycerol in the film forming suspensions both made the structure of films flexible, causing the decrease of tensile strength and increase of percent elongation of composite films, while showing poor water vapor barrier properties as the water vapor transmission values increased. The addition of methyl cellulose as to reinforce the structure of matrix improved the water vapor barrier properties of the edible films with the decrease of water vapor transmission from 1946 to 1668 g/(m2·24 h), as well as the mechanical properties were improved as expected, which could be attributed to the differentia of the interaction between methyl cellulose and other components in the film preparation as the concentration ranged from 2% (w/w) to 8% (w/w). Films with different compositions, resulting different microstructures, showed variance in barrier and mechanical properties.
Toxicity Assessment of 4-Amino-2-Nitrotoluene
Authors: Houpt John T. , Leach Glenn J. , Williams Larry R. , Johnson Mark S. , Reddy Gunda
Published: March 2013

4-Amino-2-nitrotoluene (4A2NT; CAS 119-32-4) is a degradation product of 2,4-dinitrotoluene. The toxicity data on 4A2NT are limited. Therefore, we collected toxicity data from rats to assess environmental and human health effects from exposures. The approximate lethal dose for both sexes was 5000 mg/kg. A 14-day toxicity study in rats was conducted with 4A2NT in the feed at concentrations of 0, 125, 250, 500, 1000, and 2000 ppm. Based on a 14-day oral dose range toxicity study with 4A2NT in the feed, 2000 ppm was selected as highest concentration for a subsequent 90-day study. An oral 90-day subchronic toxicity study in rats was conducted with concentrations of 0, 500, 1000, or 2000 ppm of 4A2NT in the feed. The calculated consumed doses of 4A2NT in the feed were 0, 27, 52, or 115 mg/kg/d for males and 0, 32, 65, or 138 mg/kg/d for females. A no-observed adverse effect level could not be determined. The lowest observed adverse effect level was 27 mg/kg/d for males and 32 mg/kg/d for female rats based upon decreased body weight gain. The decreased body weight gain in male rats was the most sensitive adverse event observed in this study and was used to derive a benchmark dose (BMD). A BMD of 23.1 mg/kg/d and BMD with 10% effect level of 15.5 mg/kg/d were calculated for male rats, which were used to derive an oral reference dose (RfD). The human RfD of 1.26 μg/kg/d was derived using current United States Environmental Protection Agency guidelines.
Modeling Positive Behavior Interventions and Supports for Preservice Teachers
Authors: Hill Doris Adams , Flores Margaret M.
Published: March 2013

The authors modeled programwide positive behavior interventions and supports (PBIS) principles to 26 preservice teachers during consolidated yearly extended school year (ESY) services delivered to elementary students from four school districts. While PBIS were in place for preservice teachers to implement with students, a similar system was modeled at the organizational level to enhance learning and promote collaboration between teachers and staff. Data collection included use of single-subject reversal design as well as the use of preference assessments, surveys, and frequency recording.
Perfectionism, Type D personality, and illness-related coping styles in cardiac rehabilitation patients
Authors: Shanmugasegaram Shamila , Flett Gordon L , Madan Mina , Oh Paul , Marzolini Susan , Reitav Jaan , Hewitt Paul L , Sturman Edward D
Published: March 2013

This study investigated the associations among trait perfectionism, perfectionistic self-presentation, Type D personality, and illness-specific coping styles in 100 cardiac rehabilitation patients. Participants completed the Multidimensional Perfectionism Scale, the Perfectionistic Self-Presentation Scale, the Type D Scale-14, and the Coping with Health Injuries and Problems Scale. Correlational analyses established that emotional preoccupation coping was associated with trait perfectionism, perfectionistic self-presentation, and Type D personality. Perfectionism was linked with both facets of the Type D construct (negative emotionality and social inhibition). Our results suggest that perfectionistic Type D patients have maladaptive coping with potential negative implications for their cardiac rehabilitation outcomes.
Masculinity in young men’s health: Exploring health, help-seeking and health service use in an online environment
Authors: Tyler Richard E , Williams Sarah
Published: March 2013

Twenty-eight young men took part in two online focus groups exploring understandings of health, help-seeking and health service use. Techniques from Foucauldian discourse analysis were used to elucidate how the young men framed health-related practices within gendered identities in online environments. The discourses are discussed within three discursive themes: ‘conceptualising health: everyday health versus “cover man” health’, ‘help-seeking: the restrictions of masculinity’ and ‘using health care: legitimising help-seeking through masculine identity’. Young men are interested in their health and construct their health practices as justified while simultaneously maintaining masculine identities surrounding independence, autonomy and control over their bodies.
Acute versus repeated chocolate exposure: Effects on intake and cravings in restrained and unrestrained eaters
Authors: Coelho Jennifer S , Nederkoorn Chantal , Jansen Anita
Published: March 2013

The cue-reactivity model, which is based on conditioning processes, posits that repeated food exposure (in the absence of consumption) should decrease cue reactivity. To examine whether repeated chocolate exposure attenuates cravings and intake, relative to those exposed to an acute cue, a 2 (repeated vs acute cue) × 2 (restrained vs unrestrained eaters) design was employed. Fifty female participants were recruited. Repeated exposure reduced cravings in unrestrained eaters (relative to acute exposure), but increased cravings in restrained eaters. An interaction between restraint and exposure emerged on intake, such that restrained eaters ate less after acute exposure than did unrestrained eaters.
Good stories: Chinese women's international love stories as cosmopolitan sexual politics
Authors: Farrer James
Published: March 2013

For some Chinese women dating foreign men, narratives of international love and sexual adventure break with conventional marital sexual scripts and serve to portray them as cosmopolitan Chinese women living eventful lives in multicultural Shanghai. Such sexual stories are simultaneously personal but collective products with both aesthetic and political dimensions. This study investigates this process of story making through a type of reflexive methodology, examining the process of story making as a dialogic interaction between the non-Chinese male sociologist, two Chinese female research assistants and the female interviewees who shared stories of international romance. Through this reflexive approach to writing about interviews, we can understand how sexual story making works as a collective production of meanings with diverse political and ethical implications that emerge throughout the processes of interviewing, analysis and writing.
‘Erotic capital’ and the power of desirability: Why ‘honey money’ is a bad collective strategy for remedying gender inequality
Authors: Green Adam Isaiah
Published: March 2013

In this article I conduct a close reading of Catherine Hakim’s theory concerning the relationship of sexual desirability to power and gender inequality. I suggest that Hakim’s thesis requires renewed attention not only because of the international reach of her work, but because it reflects a general cultural sentiment concerning women’s sexuality and power. I argue that her primary concept— erotic capital—is overstretched, internally inconsistent, and asociological, glossing over the structures of race, class and age that mediate women’s access to the resource. Moreover, I show the two ways that Hakim might remedy her theory, but conclude that both are indefensible. In turn, the policy implications Hakim derives from her theory of erotic capital, along with the more general cultural notion that equates sexual desirability with power, are put in high relief. I conclude by noting the existence of a productive stream of sociological theory—the sexual fields framework (Green, 2008)—that develops a concept of erotic/sexual capital which predates Hakim’s work and offers a more sociologically grounded analysis of power and desirability.
‘We need to know what’s going on’: Views of family members toward the sexual expression of people with dementia in residential aged care
Authors: Bauer Michael , Nay Rhonda , Tarzia Laura , Fetherstonhaugh Deirdre , Wellman David , Beattie Elizabeth
Published: March 2013

This paper reports on a study which explored the views and attitudes of family members towards the sexual expression of residents with dementia in residential aged care facilities in two states in Australia. Recruitment was challenging and only seven family members agreed to an interview on this topic. Data were analysed using a constant comparative method. Family were generally supportive of residents’ rights to sexual expression, but only some types of behaviours were approved of. There was an acknowledgement that responding to residents’ sexuality was difficult for staff and many families believed that they should be kept informed of their relative’s sexual behaviours and moreover be involved in decision making about it. Findings suggest the need for family education and a larger study to better understand the views and motivations of family carers and how these might impact on the sexual expression of the older person with dementia living in residential aged care.
‘Brightness in dark places’: Theatre as an arena for communicating life with dementia
Authors: Gjengedal Eva , Lykkeslet Else , Sørbø Jan I. , Sæther Wigdis Helene
Published: March 2013

The aim of this study was to use artistic expressions on a theatrical stage for communicating life with dementia, as portrayed in literary texts and to explore whether such communication would help relatives of people suffering from dementia gain knowledge of their situation. Life with dementia was portrayed through four theatre performances with actors reading excerpts from literary texts combined with music. Relatives were invited to the performances and to participate in focus groups following the events. Analysis revealed that the participants recognized episodes in the texts and were touched. This resulted in new knowledge. The aesthetic expression was of great significance. The use of the theatre stage as an arena for communicating knowledge became a meaningful experience. The performances enabled identification with roles on the stage, created a feeling of community with the audience and contributed to an experience of dignity.
Deconstructing Dominance
Authors: Mizzi Robert C. , Rocco Tonette S.
Published: March 2013

Through this article, we assert that given the individual-oriented literature on identity, and the fact that workplaces are increasingly becoming globalized, collective identities might struggle and run up against dominant, individualistic forms of identity-formation. This struggle may have serious implications for workplace practices, including workplace learning. Through our reflective analysis on various identity-formation theories, we argue for a reconfiguration of workplaces and workplace learning to consider collective perspectives on identity-formation so that work can be more relevant and responsive to the plural needs of workers. Such a move may create a workspace that validates and values workers’ identity-differences.
Contested Convergence and the Politics of Play on GameTrailers.com
Authors: Milner Ryan M.
Published: March 2013

As a hobby and as an industry, gaming is growing. The impetus for this growth is convergence, specifically technological, content, and market convergence. But gamers might contest this convergence, insofar as it blends “genres of participation.” Gaming has long been dominated by the “hardcore” who “geek out” over their favorite titles. However, a recent influx of “casual” games, which encourage “hanging out” means a split in resources. In order to investigate the contestation this might inspire, I analyzed discussions on the site GameTrailers.com. The site features both producer and fan discourse on the state of the videogame industry. On GameTrailers, the debate over convergence comes down to its driving focus: audience convergence. The industry’s goal is to create products that bring together a wider range of consumers. Differing perspectives on the worth and outcome of this audience convergence lead to political contestation.
Hacking Public Memory
Authors: Murphy David
Published: March 2013

This article uses a case study of the multiple arcade machine emulator (MAME) to insist that emulation is an important aspect of digital game culture that should not be dismissed due to copyright concerns. The author argues that emulators should be understood as ludic technologies produced by hacking practices that helped spawn and continue to permeate video game culture. Furthermore, while it may be tempting to describe the MAME as a “counter archive” that challenges institutional models of preservation, by drawing on the work of Coleman the author insists the project is better understood as a hacking practice committed to reordering “technologies and infrastructures” (p. 515). From this perspective, instead of rejecting institutional archival perspectives that view documents as truth-telling entities, the project hacks the traditional notion of the archive by treating platforms as contingent entities and game code as authentic artifacts.
Collaborators and national memory: The creation of the encyclopedia of pro-Japanese collaborators in Korea
Authors: Kim Jeong-Chul , Fine Gary A
Published: March 2013

The transition of historical actors from forgotten figures to subjects of reproach for their deeds is central to understanding the power of memory movements. In this article, we examine the public recollection of national “traitors” in Korea, focusing on the recent attempt of a South Korean research institute to create a biographical encyclopedia of pro-Japanese collaborators during the Japanese occupation of Korea from 1910 to 1945; the purpose of this enterprise is to establish a “patriotic” history of this period in Korean collective memory. Why and how did such a revisiting of history take place in the first decade of the twenty-first century? To answer this question, we examine not only the historical context that affects national memory but also the efforts of various groups to revive or suppress memory in light of nationalistic ideologies.
Do Parental Bonds Break Anti-fat Stereotyping?
Authors: Kenrick Andreana C. , Shapiro Jenessa R. , Neuberg Steven L.
Published: March 2013

This study examined whether and under what conditions parents might stereotype their own heavyweight children. Parents completed a survey assessing their beliefs about their 9- to 11-year-old children. Parents were also assessed on factors previously demonstrated to moderate people’s reactions to heavyweight strangers, including Protestant work ethic (PWE) and personal vulnerability to disease. Consistent with findings on how people view heavyweight strangers, parents who endorsed the PWE or had enhanced disease concerns attributed negative fat stereotypes (e.g., laziness, lacking self-control) to their heavyweight children. Although parental identification did not moderate stereotyping of one’s overweight children, those individuals who highly identified with their role as parents spent more time with their heavier-weight children, potentially reflecting a compensatory pattern of behaviors. That even parents negatively stereotype their young heavyweight children reveals the long reach of the anti-fat psychology and suggests that efforts to mitigate the application of fat stereotypes may be particularly difficult.
Platelets activated during myocardial infarction release functional miRNA, which can be taken up by endothelial cells and regulate ICAM1 expression
Authors: Gidlöf Olof , van der Brug Marcel , Öhman Jenny , Gilje Patrik , Olde Björn , Wahlestedt Claes , Erlinge David
Published: March 2013

Key Points

Patients with myocardial infarction have altered platelet miRNA profiles. Activated platelets release miRNAs that can be taken up by endothelial cells and regulate ICAM-1 gene expression.
Estimate hidden dynamic profiles of siRNA effect on apoptosis
Authors: Ueda Takanori , Tominaga Daisuke , Araki Noriko , Yoshikawa Tomohiro
Published: March 2013

Background

For the representation of RNA interference (RNAi) dynamics, several mathematical models based on systems of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) have been proposed. These models consist of equations for each molecule that are involved in RNAi phenomena. Therefore, many real-value parameters must be optimized to identify the models. They also have many ‘hidden variables’, which cannot be observed directly through experimentation. Calculation of the values of the hidden variables is generally very difficult, if not impossible in some special cases. Identification of the ODE models is also quite difficult.

Results

We show that the simplified logistic Lotka-Volterra model, a well-established ODE model for biological and biochemical phenomena, can represent RNAi dynamics as a predator-prey system. Although a hidden variable exists in the model, its values can be determined and made visible as dynamic profiles of RNA-decomposing effects of siRNAs. Correlation analysis shows that the model parameters correlate highly with the total effect of the siRNA.

Conclusions

The results suggest that analyses using our model are useful to estimate dynamic profiles of siRNA effects on apoptosis and to score siRNA by its effects on apoptosis, namely ‘phenotypic scoring’.
New insights on the biology of swine respiratory tract mycoplasmas from a comparative genome analysis
Authors: Siqueira Franciele Maboni , Thompson Claudia Elizabeth , Virginio Veridiana Gomes , Gonchoroski Taylor , Reolon Luciano , Almeida Luiz Gonzaga , da Fonsêca Marbella Maria , de Souza Rangel , Prosdocimi Francisco , Schrank Irene Silveira , Ferreira Henrique Bunselmeyer , de Vasconcelos Ana Tereza Ribeiro , Zaha Arnaldo
Published: March 2013

Background

Mycoplasma hyopneumoniae,Mycoplasma flocculareandMycoplasma hyorhinislive in swine respiratory tracts.M. flocculare, a commensal bacterium, is genetically closely related toM. hyopneumoniae, the causative agent of enzootic porcine pneumonia.M. hyorhinisis also pathogenic, causing polyserositis and arthritis. In this work, we present the genome sequences ofM. flocculareandM. hyopneumoniaestrain 7422, and we compare these genomes with the genomes of otherM. hyoponeumoniaestrain and to the aM. hyorhinisgenome. These analyses were performed to identify possible characteristics that may help to explain the different behaviors of these species in swine respiratory tracts.

Results

The overall genome organization of three species was analyzed, revealing that the ORF clusters (OCs) differ considerably and that inversions and rearrangements are common. AlthoughM. flocculareandM. hyopneumoniaedisplay a high degree of similarity with respect to the gene content, only some genomic regions display considerable synteny. Genes encoding proteins that may be involved in host-cell adhesion inM. hyopneumoniaeandM. floccularedisplay differences in genomic structure and organization. Some genes encoding adhesins of the P97 family are absent inM. flocculareand some contain sequence differences or lack of domains that are considered to be important for adhesion to host cells. The phylogenetic relationship of the three species was confirmed by a phylogenomic approach. The set of genes involved in metabolism, especially in the uptake of precursors for nucleic acids synthesis and nucleotide metabolism, display some differences in copy number and the presence/absence in the three species.

Conclusions

The comparative analyses of three mycoplasma species that inhabit the swine respiratory tract facilitated the identification of some characteristics that may be related to their different behaviors.M. hyopneumoniaeandM. floccularedisplay many differences that may help to explain why one species is pathogenic and the other is considered to be commensal. However, it was not possible to identify specific virulence determinant factors that could explain the differences in the pathogenicity of the analyzed species. TheM. hyorhinisgenome contains differences in some components involved in metabolism and evasion of the host’s immune system that may contribute to its growth aggressiveness. Several horizontal gene transfer events were identified. The phylogenomic analysis placesM. hyopneumoniae, M. flocculareandM. hyorhinisin the hyopneumoniae clade.
Deep sequencing for de novo construction of a marine fish (Sparus aurata)transcriptome database with a large coverage of protein-coding transcripts
Authors: Calduch-Giner Josep A , Bermejo-Nogales Azucena , Benedito-Palos Laura , Estensoro Itziar , Ballester-Lozano Gabriel , Sitjà-Bobadilla Ariadna , Pérez-Sánchez Jaume
Published: March 2013

Background

The gilthead sea bream (Sparus aurata) is the main fish species cultured in the Mediterranean area and constitutes an interesting model of research. Nevertheless, transcriptomic and genomic data are still scarce for this highly valuable species. A transcriptome database was constructed by de novo assembly of gilthead sea bream sequences derived from public repositories of mRNA and collections of expressed sequence tags together with new high-quality reads from five cDNA 454 normalized libraries of skeletal muscle (1), intestine (1), head kidney (2) and blood (1).

Results

Sequencing of the new 454 normalized libraries produced 2,945,914 high-quality reads and the de novo global assembly yielded 125,263 unique sequences with an average length of 727 nt. Blast analysis directed to protein and nucleotide databases annotated 63,880 sequences encoding for 21,384 gene descriptions, that were curated for redundancies and frameshifting at the homopolymer regions of open reading frames, and hosted at http://www.nutrigroup-iats.org/seabreamdb. Among the annotated gene descriptions, 16,177 were mapped in the Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) database, and 10,899 were eligible for functional analysis with a representation in 341 out of 372 IPA canonical pathways. The high representation of randomly selected stickleback transcripts by Blast search in the nucleotide gilthead sea bream database evidenced its high coverage of protein-coding transcripts.

Conclusions

The newly assembled gilthead sea bream transcriptome represents a progress in genomic resources for this species, as it probably contains more than 75% of actively transcribed genes, constituting a valuable tool to assist studies on functional genomics and future genome projects.
Characterization of Halomonassp. ZM3 isolated from the Zelazny Most post-flotation waste reservoir, with a special focus on its mobile DNA
Authors: Dziewit Lukasz , Pyzik Adam , Matlakowska Renata , Baj Jadwiga , Szuplewska Magdalena , Bartosik Dariusz
Published: March 2013

Background

Halomonas sp. ZM3 was isolated from Zelazny Most post-flotation mineral waste repository (Poland), which is highly contaminated with heavy metals and various organic compounds. Mobile DNA of the strain (i.e. plasmids and transposons) were analyzed in order to identify genetic information enabling adaptation of the bacterium to the harsh environmental conditions.

Results

The analysis revealed that ZM3 carries plasmid pZM3H1 (31,370 bp), whose replication system may be considered as an archetype of a novel subgroup of IncU-like replicons. pZM3H1 is a narrow host range, mobilizable plasmid (encodes a relaxase of the MOBV family) containing mercury resistance operon (mer) and czcD genes (mediate resistance to zinc and cobalt), which are part of a large truncated Tn3 family transposon. Further analysis demonstrated that the phenotypes determined by the pZM3H1 resistance cassette are highly dependent on the host strain. In another strand of the study, the trap plasmid pMAT1 was employed to identify functional transposable elements of Halomonas sp. ZM3. Using the sacB positive selection strategy two insertion sequences were identified: ISHsp1 - representing IS5 group of IS5 family and ISHsp2 - a distinct member of the IS630 family.

Conclusions

This study provides the first detailed description of mobile DNA in a member of the family Halomonadaceae. The identified IncU plasmid pZM3H1 confers resistance phenotypes enabling adaptation of the host strain to the Zelazny Most environment. The extended comparative analysis has shed light on the distribution of related IncU plasmids among bacteria, which, in many cases, reflects the frequency and direction of horizontal gene transfer events. Our results also identify plasmid-encoded modules, which may form the basis of novel shuttle vectors, specific for this group of halophilic bacteria.
Homo-dimerization and ligand binding by the leucine-rich repeat domain at RHG1/RFS2 underlying resistance to two soybean pathogens
Authors: Afzal Ahmed J , Srour Ali , Goil Abhishek , Vasudaven Sheeja , Liu Tianyun , Samudrala Ram , Dogra Navneet , Kohli Punit , Malakar Ayan , Lightfoot David A
Published: March 2013

Background

The protein encoded by GmRLK18-1 (Glyma_18_02680 on chromosome 18) was a receptor like kinase (RLK) encoded within the soybean (Glycine max L. Merr.) Rhg1/Rfs2 locus. The locus underlies resistance to the soybean cyst nematode (SCN) Heterodera glycines (I.) and causal agent of sudden death syndrome (SDS) Fusarium virguliforme (Aoki). Previously the leucine rich repeat (LRR) domain was expressed in Escherichia coli.

Results

The aims here were to evaluate the LRRs ability to; homo-dimerize; bind larger proteins; and bind to small peptides. Western analysis suggested homo-dimers could form after protein extraction from roots. The purified LRR domain, from residue 131–485, was seen to form a mixture of monomers and homo-dimers in vitro. Cross-linking experiments in vitro showed the H274N region was close (<11.1 A) to the highly conserved cysteine residue C196 on the second homo-dimer subunit. Binding constants of 20–142 nM for peptides found in plant and nematode secretions were found. Effects on plant phenotypes including wilting, stem bending and resistance to infection by SCN were observed when roots were treated with 50 pM of the peptides. Far-Western analyses followed by MS showed methionine synthase and cyclophilin bound strongly to the LRR domain. A second LRR from GmRLK08-1 (Glyma_08_g11350) did not show these strong interactions.

Conclusions

The LRR domain of the GmRLK18-1 protein formed both a monomer and a homo-dimer. The LRR domain bound avidly to 4 different CLE peptides, a cyclophilin and a methionine synthase. The CLE peptides GmTGIF, GmCLE34, GmCLE3 and HgCLE were previously reported to be involved in root growth inhibition but here GmTGIF and HgCLE were shown to alter stem morphology and resistance to SCN. One of several models from homology and ab-initio modeling was partially validated by cross-linking. The effect of the 3 amino acid replacements present among RLK allotypes, A87V, Q115K and H274N were predicted to alter domain stability and function. Therefore, the LRR domain of GmRLK18-1 might underlie both root development and disease resistance in soybean and provide an avenue to develop new variants and ligands that might promote reduced losses to SCN.
Augmentation index and aortic stiffness in bicuspid aortic valve patients with non-dilated proximal aortas
Authors: Warner Patrick J , Al-Quthami Adeeb , Brooks Erica L , Kelley-Hedgepeth Alyson , Patvardhan Eshan , Kuvin Jeffrey T , Heffernan Kevin S , Huggins Gordon S
Published: March 2013

Background

We compared aortic stiffness, aortic impedance and pressure from wave reflections in the setting of bicuspid aortic valve (BAV) to the tricuspid aortic valve (TAV) in the absence of proximal aortic dilation. We hypothesized BAV is associated with abnormal arterial stiffness.

Methods

Ten BAV subjects (47 ± 4 years, 6 male) and 13 TAV subjects (46 ± 4 years, 10 male) without significant aortic valve disease were prospectively recruited. Characteristic impedance (Zc) was derived from echocardiographic images and pulse wave Doppler of the left ventricular outflow tract. Applanation tonometry was performed to obtain pulse wave velocity (PWV) at several sites as measures of arterial stiffness and augmentation index (AIx) as a measure of wave reflection.

Results

There were no significant differences between BAV and TAV subjects with regard to heart rate or blood pressure. Zc was similar between BAV and TAV subjects (p=0.25) as was carotid-femoral pulse wave velocity (cf-PWV) and carotid-radial PWV (cr-PWV) between BAV and TAV subjects (p=0.99). Carotid AIx was significantly higher in BAV patients compared with TAV patients (14.3 ± 4.18% versus -3.02 ± 3.96%, p=0.007).

Conclusions

Aortic stiffness and impedance is similar between subjects with BAV and TAV with normal aortic dimensions. The significantly higher carotid AIx in BAV, a proxy of increased pressure from wave reflections, may reflect abnormal vascular function distal to the aorta.
A case–control study on the association between bladder cancer and prior bladder calculus
Authors: Chung Shiu-Dong , Tsai Ming-Chieh , Lin Ching-Chun , Lin Herng-Ching
Published: March 2013

Background

Bladder calculus is associated with chronic irritation and inflammation. As there is substantial documentation that inflammation can play a direct role in carcinogenesis, to date the relationship between stone formation and bladder cancer (BC) remains unclear. This study aimed to examine the association between BC and prior bladder calculus using a population-based dataset.

Methods

This case–control study included 2,086 cases who had received their first-time diagnosis of BC between 2001 and 2009 and 10,430 randomly selected controls without BC. Conditional logistic regressions were employed to explore the association between BC and having been previously diagnosed with bladder calculus.

Results

Of the sampled subjects, bladder calculus was found in 71 (3.4%) cases and 105 (1.1%) controls. Conditional logistic regression analysis revealed that the odds ratio (OR) of having been diagnosed with bladder calculus before the index date for cases was 3.42 (95% CI = 2.48-4.72) when compared with controls after adjusting for monthly income, geographic region, hypertension, diabetes, coronary heart disease, and renal disease, tobacco use disorder, obesity, alcohol abuse, and schistosomiasis, bladder outlet obstruction, and urinary tract infection. We further analyzed according to sex and found that among males, the OR of having been previously diagnosed with bladder calculus for cases was 3.45 (95% CI = 2.39-4.99) that of controls. Among females, the OR was 3.05 (95% CI = 1.53-6.08) that of controls.

Conclusions

These results add to the evidence surrounding the conflicting reports regarding the association between BC and prior bladder calculus and highlight a potential target population for bladder cancer screening.
Transcriptional effects of 1,25 dihydroxyvitamin D3physiological and supra-physiological concentrations in breast cancer organotypic culture
Authors: Milani Cintia , Katayama Maria Lucia Hirata , de Lyra Eduardo Carneiro , Welsh JoEllen , Campos Laura Tojeiro , Brentani M Mitzi , Maciel Maria do Socorro , Roela Rosimeire Aparecida , del Valle Paulo Roberto , Góes João Carlos Guedes Sampaio , Nonogaki Suely , Tamura Rodrigo Esaki , Folgueira Maria Aparecida Azevedo Koike
Published: March 2013

Background

Vitamin D transcriptional effects were linked to tumor growth control, however, the hormone targets were determined in cell cultures exposed to supra physiological concentrations of 1,25(OH)2D3 (50-100nM). Our aim was to evaluate the transcriptional effects of 1,25(OH)2D3 in a more physiological model of breast cancer, consisting of fresh tumor slices exposed to 1,25(OH)2D3 at concentrations that can be attained in vivo.

Methods

Tumor samples from post-menopausal breast cancer patients were sliced and cultured for 24 hours with or without 1,25(OH)2D3 0.5nM or 100nM. Gene expression was analyzed by microarray (SAM paired analysis, FDR≤0.1) or RT-qPCR (p≤0.05, Friedman/Wilcoxon test). Expression of candidate genes was then evaluated in mammary epithelial/breast cancer lineages and cancer associated fibroblasts (CAFs), exposed or not to 1,25(OH)2D3 0.5nM, using RT-qPCR, western blot or immunocytochemistry.

Results

1,25(OH)2D3 0.5nM or 100nM effects were evaluated in five tumor samples by microarray and seven and 136 genes, respectively, were up-regulated. There was an enrichment of genes containing transcription factor binding sites for the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in samples exposed to 1,25(OH)2D3 near physiological concentration. Genes up-modulated by both 1,25(OH)2D3 concentrations were CYP24A1, DPP4, CA2, EFTUD1, TKTL1, KCNK3. Expression of candidate genes was subsequently evaluated in another 16 samples by RT-qPCR and up-regulation of CYP24A1, DPP4 and CA2 by 1,25(OH)2D3 was confirmed. To evaluate whether the transcripitonal targets of 1,25(OH)2D3 0.5nM were restricted to the epithelial or stromal compartments, gene expression was examined in HB4A, C5.4, SKBR3, MDA-MB231, MCF-7 lineages and CAFs, using RT-qPCR. In epithelial cells, there was a clear induction of CYP24A1, CA2, CD14 and IL1RL1. In fibroblasts, in addition to CYP24A1 induction, there was a trend towards up-regulation of CA2, IL1RL1, and DPP4. A higher protein expression of CD14 in epithelial cells and CA2 and DPP4 in CAFs exposed to 1,25(OH)2D3 0.5nM was detected.

Conclusions

In breast cancer specimens a short period of 1,25(OH)2D3 exposure at near physiological concentration modestly activates the hormone transcriptional pathway. Induction of CYP24A1, CA2, DPP4, IL1RL1 expression appears to reflect 1,25(OH)2D3 effects in epithelial as well as stromal cells, however, induction of CD14 expression is likely restricted to the epithelial compartment.
Health and development of ART conceived young adults: a study protocol for the follow-up of a cohort
Authors: Wilson Cate , Hammarberg Karin , Bruinsma Fiona , Berg Turi , Amor David , Sanson Ann , Fisher Jane R , Halliday Jane
Published: March 2013

Background

Use of assisted reproductive technologies (ART) continues to increase, yet little is known of the longer term health of ART conceived offspring. There are some adverse birth outcomes associated with ART conception but the subsequent developmental trajectory is unclear. Undertaking research in this area is challenging due the sensitive nature of the topic and the time elapsed since birth of the ART conceived young adults. The aim of this report is to describe a research protocol, including design and ethical considerations, used to compare the physical and psychosocial health outcomes of ART conceived young adults aged 18-28 years, with their spontaneously conceived peers.

Design

This is a retrospective cohort study of mothers who conceived with ART in Victoria, Australia and gave birth to a singleton child between 1982 and 1992. A current address for each mother was located and a letter of invitation to participate in the study was sent by registered mail. Participation involved completing a telephone interview about her young adult offspring’s health and development from birth to the present. Mothers were also asked for consent for the researcher to contact their son/daughter to invite them to complete a structured telephone interview about their physical and psychosocial health. A comparison group of women living in Victoria, Australia, who had given birth to a spontaneously conceived singleton child between 1982 and 1992 was recruited from the general population using random digit dialling. Data were collected from them and their young adult offspring in the same way. Regression analyses were used to evaluate relationships between ART exposure and health status, including birth defects, chronic health conditions, hospital admissions, growth and sexual development. Psychosocial wellbeing, parental relationships and educational achievement were also assessed. Factors associated with the age of disclosure of ART conception were explored with the ART group only.

Discussion

The conceptualization and development of this large project posed a number of methodological, logistical and ethical challenges which we were able to overcome. The lessons we learnt can assist others who are investigating the long-term health implications for ART conceived offspring.
Comparative analysis of the transduction efficiency of five adeno associated virus serotypes and VSV-G pseudotype lentiviral vector in lung cancer cells
Authors: Chen Chiachen , Akerstrom Victoria , Baus James , Lan Michael S , Breslin Mary B
Published: March 2013

Background

Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the US. Recombinant vectors based on adeno-associated virus (AAV) and lentivirus are promising delivery tools for gene therapy due to low toxicity and long term expression. The efficiency of the gene delivery system is one of the most important factors directly related to the success of gene therapy.

Methods

We infected SCLC cell lines, SHP-77, DMS 53, NCI-H82, NCI-H69, NCI-H727, NCI-H1155, and NSCLC cell lines, NCI-H23, NCI-H661, and NCI-H460 with VSV-G pseudo-typed lentivirus or 5 AAV serotypes, AAV2/1, AAV2/2, AAV2/4, AAV2/5, and AAV2/8 expressing the CMV promoter mCherry or green fluorescent protein transgene (EGFP). The transduction efficiency was analyzed by fluorescent microscopy and flow cytometry.

Results

Of all the serotypes of AAV examined, AAV2/1 was the optimal serotype in most of the lung cancer cell lines except for NCI-H69 and NCI-H82. The highest transduction rate achieved with AAV2/1 was between 30–50% at MOI 100. Compared to all AAV serotypes, lentivirus had the highest transduction efficiency of over 50% at MOI 1. Even in NCI-H69 cells resistant to all AAV serotypes, lentivirus had a 10-40% transduction rate. To date, AAV2 is the most widely-used serotype to deliver a transgene. Our results showed the transduction efficiency of AAVs tested was AAV2/1 > AA2/5 = AAV2/2> > AAV2/4 and AAV2/8.

Conclusions

This study demonstrated that VSV-G pseudotyped lentivirus and AAV2/1 can mediate expression of a transgene for lung cancer gene therapy. Overall, our results showed that lentivirus is the best candidate to deliver a transgene into lung cancer cells for treatment.
Screening for colorectal cancer with FOBT, virtual colonoscopy and optical colonoscopy: study protocol for a randomized controlled trial in the Florence district (SAVE study)
Authors: Sali Lapo , Grazzini Grazia , Carozzi Francesca , Castiglione Guido , Falchini Massimo , Mallardi Beatrice , Mantellini Paola , Ventura Leonardo , Regge Daniele , Zappa Marco , Mascalchi Mario , Milani Stefano
Published: March 2013

Background

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the most frequent cancer in Europe. Randomized clinical trials demonstrated that screening with fecal occult blood test (FOBT) reduces mortality from CRC. Accordingly, the European Community currently recommends population-based screening with FOBT. Other screening tests, such as computed tomography colonography (CTC) and optical colonoscopy (OC), are highly accurate for examining the entire colon for adenomas and CRC. Acceptability represents a critical determinant of the impact of a screening program. We designed a randomized controlled trial to compare participation rate and diagnostic yield of FOBT, CTC with computer-aided diagnosis, and OC as primary tests for population-based screening.

Methods/Design

A total of 14,000 subjects aged 55 to 64 years, living in the Florence district and never screened for CRC, will be randomized in three arms: group 1 (5,000 persons) invited to undergo CTC (divided into: subgroup 1A with reduced cathartic preparation and subgroup 1B with standard bowel preparation); group 2 (8,000 persons) invited to undergo a biannual FOBT for three rounds; and group 3 (1,000 persons) invited to undergo OC. Subjects of each group will be invited by mail to undergo the selected test. All subjects with a positive FOBT or CTC test (that is, mass or at least one polyp ≥6 mm) will be invited to undergo a second-level OC. Primary objectives of the study are to compare the participation rate to FOBT, CTC and OC; to compare the detection rate for cancer or advanced adenomas of CTC versus three rounds of biannual FOBT; to evaluate referral rate for OC induced by primary CTC versus three rounds of FOBT; and to estimate costs of the three screening strategies. A secondary objective of the study is to create a biological bank of blood and stool specimens from subjects undergoing CTC and OC.

Discussion

This study will provide information about participation/acceptability, diagnostic yield and costs of screening with CTC in comparison with the recommended test (FOBT) and OC.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT01651624.