bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chaperone Hsp47 Drives Malignant Growth and Invasion by Modulating an ECM Gene Network
Authors: Zhu Jieqing , Xiong Gaofeng , Fu Hanjiang , Evers B. Mark , Zhou Binhua P. , Xu Ren
Published: March 2015

The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a determining factor in the tumor microenvironment that restrains or promotes malignant growth. In this report, we show how the molecular chaperone protein Hsp47 functions as a nodal hub in regulating an ECM gene transcription network. A transcription network analysis showed that Hsp47 expression was activated during breast cancer development and progression. Hsp47 silencing reprogrammed human breast cancer cells to form growth-arrested and/or noninvasive structures in 3D cultures, and to limit tumor growth in xenograft assays by reducing deposition of collagen and fibronectin. Coexpression network analysis also showed that levels of microRNA(miR)-29b and -29c were inversely correlated with expression of Hsp47 and ECM network genes in human breast cancer tissues. We found that miR-29 repressed expression of Hsp47 along with multiple ECM network genes. Ectopic expression of miR-29b suppressed malignant phenotypes of breast cancer cells in 3D culture. Clinically, increased expression of Hsp47 and reduced levels of miR-29b and -29c were associated with poor survival outcomes in breast cancer patients. Our results show that Hsp47 is regulated by miR-29 during breast cancer development and progression, and that increased Hsp47 expression promotes cancer progression in part by enhancing deposition of ECM proteins. Cancer Res; 75(8); 1580–91. ©2015 AACR.
Notch Suppresses Angiogenesis and Progression of Hepatic Metastases
Authors: Banerjee Debarshi , Hernandez Sonia L. , Garcia Alejandro , Kangsamaksin Thaned , Sbiroli Emily , Andrews John , Forrester Lynn Ann , Wei Na , Kadenhe-Chiweshe Angela , Shawber Carrie J. , Kitajewski Jan K. , Kandel Jessica J. , Yamashiro Darrell J.
Published: March 2015

The Notch pathway plays multiple key roles in tumorigenesis, and its signaling components have therefore aroused great interest as targets for emerging therapies. Here, we show that inhibition of Notch, using a soluble receptor Notch1 decoy, unexpectedly caused a remarkable increase in liver metastases from neuroblastoma and breast cancer cells. Increased liver metastases were also seen after treatment with the γ-secretase inhibitor PF-03084014. Transgenic mice with heterozygous loss of Notch1 demonstrated a marked increase in hepatic metastases, indicating that Notch1 signaling acts as metastatic suppressor in the liver microenvironment. Inhibition of DLL1/4 with ligand-specific Notch1 decoys increased sprouting of sinusoidal endothelial cells into micrometastases, thereby supporting early metastatic angiogenic growth. Inhibition of tumor-derived JAG1 signaling activated hepatic stellate cells, increasing their recruitment to vasculature of micrometastases, thereby supporting progression to macrometastases. These results demonstrate that inhibition of Notch causes pathologic activation of liver stromal cells, promoting angiogenesis and growth of hepatic metastases. Our findings have potentially serious implications for Notch inhibition therapy. Cancer Res; 75(8); 1592–602. ©2015 AACR.
IKKβ Enforces a LIN28B/TCF7L2 Positive Feedback Loop That Promotes Cancer Cell Stemness and Metastasis
Authors: Chen Chong , Cao Fengqi , Bai Lipeng , Liu Yan , Xie Junling , Wang Wei , Si Qin , Yang Jian , Chang Antao , Liu Dong , Liu Dachuan , Chuang Tsung-Hsien , Xiang Rong , Luo Yunping
Published: March 2015

Considerable evidence suggests that proinflammatory pathways drive self-renewal of cancer stem-like cells (CSC), but the underlying mechanisms remain mainly undefined. Here we report that the let7 repressor LIN28B and its regulator IKBKB (IKKβ) sustain cancer cell stemness by interacting with the Wnt/TCF7L2 (TCF4) signaling pathway to promote cancer progression. We found that LIN28B expression correlated with clinical progression and stemness marker expression in breast cancer patients. Functional studies demonstrated that the stemness properties of LIN28B-expressing human breast and lung cancer cells were enhanced by IKKβ, whereas loss of LIN28B abolished stemness properties in these settings. These phenomena were driven through interactions with TCF7L2, which enhanced LIN28B expression by direct binding to intron 1 of the LIN28B gene, which in turn promoted TCF7L2 mRNA translation through a positive feedback loop. Notably, RNAi-mediated silencing of LIN28B or pharmacologic inhibition of IKKβ was sufficient to suppress primary and metastatic tumor growth in vivo. Together, our results establish the LIN28B/TCF7L2 interaction loop as a central mediator of cancer stemness driven by proinflammatory processes during progression and metastasis, possibly offering a new therapeutic target for generalized interventions in advanced cancers. Cancer Res; 75(8); 1725–35. ©2015 AACR.
CDK4/6 Inhibitor PD 0332991 Sensitizes Acute Myeloid Leukemia to Cytarabine-Mediated Cytotoxicity
Authors: Yang Chenyi , Boyson Cynthia A. , Di Liberto Maurizio , Huang Xiangao , Hannah Jeffrey , Dorn David C. , Moore Malcolm A.S. , Chen-Kiang Selina , Zhou Pengbo
Published: March 2015

Cyclin-dependent kinase (CDK)4 and CDK6 are frequently overexpressed or hyperactivated in human cancers. Targeting CDK4/CDK6 in combination with cytotoxic killing therefore represents a rational approach to cancer therapy. By selective inhibition of CDK4/CDK6 with PD 0332991, which leads to early G1 arrest and synchronous S-phase entry upon release of the G1 block, we have developed a novel strategy to prime acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cells for cytotoxic killing by cytarabine (Ara-C). This sensitization is achieved in part through enrichment of S-phase cells, which maximizes the AML populations for Ara-C incorporation into replicating DNA to elicit DNA damage. Moreover, PD 0332991 triggered apoptosis of AML cells through inhibition of the homeobox (HOX)A9 oncogene expression, reducing the transcription of its target PIM1. Reduced PIM1 synthesis attenuates PIM1-mediated phosphorylation of the proapoptotic BAD and activates BAD-dependent apoptosis. In vivo, timely inhibition of CDK4/CDK6 by PD 0332991 and release profoundly suppresses tumor growth in response to reduced doses of Ara-C in a xenograft AML model. Collectively, these data suggest selective and reversible inhibition of CDK4/CDK6 as an effective means to enhance Ara-C killing of AML cells at reduced doses, which has implications for the treatment of elderly AML patients who are unable to tolerate high-dose Ara-C therapy. Cancer Res; 75(9); 1838–45. ©2015 AACR.
Opportunities for Translational Epidemiology: The Important Role of Observational Studies to Advance Precision Oncology
Authors: Marrone Michael , Schilsky Richard L. , Liu Geoff , Khoury Muin J. , Freedman Andrew N.
Published: March 2015

Within current oncology practice, several genomic applications are being used to inform treatment decisions with molecularly targeted therapies in breast, lung, colorectal, melanoma, and other cancers. This commentary introduces a conceptual framework connecting the full spectrum of biomedical research disciplines, including fundamental laboratory research, clinical trials, and observational studies in the translation of genomic applications into clinical practice. The conceptual framework illustrates the contribution that well-designed observational epidemiologic studies provide to the successful translation of these applications, and characterizes the role observational epidemiology plays in driving the dynamic and iterative bench-to-bedside, and bedside-to-bench translation continuum. We also discuss how the principles of this conceptual model, emphasizing integration of multidisciplinary research, can be applied to the evolving paradigm in “precision oncology” focusing on multiplex tumor sequencing, and we identify opportunities for observational studies to contribute to the successful and efficient translation of this paradigm.Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev; 24(3); 484–9. ©2015 AACR.
Targeting ETV1 in Gastrointestinal Stromal Tumors: Tripping the Circuit Breaker in GIST?
Authors: Duensing Anette
Published: March 2015

Summary: Activating mutations in the KIT or PDGFRA receptor tyrosine kinase genes are the key oncogenic drivers in the majority of gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GIST), but novel results now show that aberrant kinase signaling is potentiated by a positive feedback circuit that involves the ETS transcription factor ETV1. Targeting ETV1 can disrupt this circuit and represents a promising new therapeutic approach for the treatment of GISTs. Cancer Discov; 5(3); 231–3. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Ran and colleagues, p. 304
Estudos Culturais aplicados a pesquisas em mídias audiovisuais: o circuito da cultura como instrumental analítico
Authors: Lisboa Filho Flavi Ferreira , Moraes Ana Luiza Coiro
Published: March 2015

O artigo propõe o circuito da cultura de Paul Du Gay et al. (1997) como instrumento analítico de mídias audiovisuais. Apelando a pesquisas orientadas por seus autores como exemplos, o artigo promove uma reflexão sobre os eixos que compõem esse circuito — representação, identidade, produção, consumo e regulação. Conclui, então, que para atender às processualidades analíticas das mídias audiovisuais contemporâneas, é preciso articular algumas instâncias a esses eixos, e apresenta a sua proposta.
Relationship of Cigarette Smoking With Inflammation and Subclinical Vascular Disease
Authors: McEvoy John W. , Nasir Khurram , DeFilippis Andrew P. , Lima Joao A.C. , Bluemke David A. , Hundley W. Gregory , Barr R. Graham , Budoff Matthew J. , Szklo Moyses , Navas-Acien Ana , Polak Joseph F. , Blumenthal Roger S. , Post Wendy S. , Blaha Michael J.
Published: March 2015

Objective—

We sought to assess the impact of smoking status, cumulative pack-years, and time since cessation (the latter in former smokers only) on 3 important domains of cardiovascular disease: inflammation, vascular dynamics and function, and subclinical atherosclerosis.

Approach and Results—

The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA) cohort enrolled 6814 adults without prior cardiovascular disease. Smoking variables were determined by self-report and confirmed with urinary cotinine. We examined cross-sectional associations between smoking parameters and (1) inflammatory biomarkers (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein [hsCRP], interleukin-6, and fibrinogen); (2) vascular dynamics and function (brachial flow-mediated dilation and carotid distensibility by ultrasound, as well as aortic distensibility by MRI); and (3) subclinical atherosclerosis (coronary artery calcification, carotid intima–media thickness, and ankle-brachial index). We identified 3218 never smokers, 2607 former smokers, and 971 current smokers. Mean age was 62 years and 47% were male. There was no consistent association between smoking and vascular distensibility or flow-mediated dilation outcomes. However, compared with never smokers, the adjusted association between current smoking and measures of either inflammation or subclinical atherosclerosis was consistently stronger than for former smoking (eg, odds ratio for hsCRP>2 mg/L of 1.7 [95% confidence interval, 1.5–2.1] versus 1.2 [1.1–1.4], odds ratio for coronary artery calcification>0 of 1.8 [1.5–2.1] versus 1.4 [1.2–1.6], respectively). Similar associations were seen for interleukin-6, fibrinogen, carotid intima–media thickness, and ankle-brachial index. A monotonic association was also found between higher pack-year quartiles and increasing inflammatory markers. Furthermore, current smokers with hsCRP>2 mg/L were more likely to have increased carotid intima–media thickness, abnormal ankle-brachial index, and coronary artery calcification>75th percentile for age, sex, and race (relative to smokers with hsCRP<2 mg/L, interaction
P
<0.05 for all 3 outcomes). In contrast, time since quitting in former smokers was independently associated with lower inflammation and atherosclerosis (eg, odds ratio for hsCRP>2 mg/L of 0.91 [0.88–0.95] and odds ratio for coronary artery calcification>0 of 0.94 [0.90–0.97] for every 5-year cessation interval).

Conclusions—

These findings expand our understanding of the harmful effects of smoking and help explain the cardiovascular benefits of smoking cessation.
Cell Adhesion Mediated by VCAM–ITGα9 Interactions Enables Lymphatic Development
Authors: Yang Yiqing , Enis David , Zheng Hui , Chia Stephanie , Yang Jisheng , Chen Mei , Dhillon Veerpal , Papayannapoulou Thalia , Kahn Mark L.
Published: March 2015

Objective—

Adhesive ligand–receptor interactions play key roles in blood vessel angiogenesis but remain poorly characterized during lymphatic vessel growth. In this study, we use genetic approaches in both fish and mice to address the roles of cell surface integrin ligand vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM) and its 2 receptors, integrins α9 and α4, during lymphatic vascular development.

Approach and Results—

Conditional deletion of the
Vcam
gene was used to test VCAM function in lymphatic growth in midgestation mice. Morpholino knockdown and cRNA rescue of the 2 zebrafish vcam alleles, as well as integrins α9 and 4, were used to test the role of these ligands and receptors during lymphatic growth in the developing fish. We show that VCAM is essential for lymphatic development in the zebrafish embryo and that integrin α9 (Itgα9) rather than Itgα4 is the required VCAM receptor in the developing fish. VCAM is expressed along lines of lymphatic migration in the mouse intestine, but its loss only retards lymphatic growth.

Conclusions—

These studies reveal an unexpected role for cell–cell adhesion mediated by Itgα9–VCAM interactions during lymphatic development in the fish but not in the mouse. We propose that the relative importance of cellular adhesive ligands is magnified under conditions of rapid tissue growth when the cell number increases faster than cell matrix, such as in the early zebrafish embryo.
Five-Year Follow-Up After Catheter Ablation of Persistent Atrial Fibrillation Using the Stepwise Approach and Prognostic Factors for Success
Authors: Schreiber Doreen , Rostock Thomas , Fröhlich Max , Sultan Arian , Servatius Helge , Hoffmann Boris A. , Lüker Jakob , Berner Imke , Schäffer Benjamin , Wegscheider Karl , Lezius Susanne , Willems Stephan , Steven Daniel
Published: March 2015

Background—

In the meantime, catheter ablation is widely used for the treatment of persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). There is a paucity of data about long-term outcomes. This study evaluates (1) 5-year single and multiple procedure success and (2) prognostic factors for arrhythmia recurrences after catheter ablation of persistent AF using the stepwise approach aiming at AF termination.

Methods and Results—

A total of 549 patients with persistent AF underwent de novo catheter ablation using the stepwise approach (2007–2009). A total of 493 patients were included (Holter ECGs ≥every 6 months). Mean follow-up was 59±16 months with 2.1±1.1 procedures per patient. Single and multiple procedure success rates were 20.1% and 55.9%, respectively (80% off antiarrhythmic drug). Antiarrhythmic drug–free multiple procedure success was 46%. Long-term recurrences (n=171) were paroxysmal AF in 48 patients (28%) and persistent AF/atrial tachycardia in 123 patients (72%). Multivariable recurrent event analysis revealed the following factors favoring arrhythmia recurrence: failure to terminate AF during index procedure (hazard ratio [HR], 1.279; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.093–1.497;
P
=0.002), number of procedures (HR, 1.154; 95% CI, 1.051–1.267;
P
=0.003), female sex (HR, 1.263; 95% CI, 1.027–1.553;
P
=0.027), and the presence of structural heart disease (HR, 1.236; 95% CI, 1.003–1.524;
P
=0.047). AF termination was correlated with a higher rate of consecutive procedures because of atrial tachycardia recurrences (
P
=0.003; HR, 1.71; 95% CI, 1.20–2.43).

Conclusions—

Catheter ablation of persistent AF using the stepwise approach provides limited long-term freedom of arrhythmias often requiring multiple procedures. AF termination, the number of procedures, sex, and the presence of structural heart disease correlate with outcome success. AF termination is associated with consecutive atrial tachycardia procedures.
Temporal Trends in Revascularization Strategy and Outcomes in Left Main Coronary Artery Stenosis
Authors: Park Seung-Jung , Ahn Jung-Min , Kim Young-Hak , Park Duk-Woo , Yun Sung-Cheol , Yoon Sung-Han , Park Hyun Woo , Chang Mineok , Lee Jong-Young , Kang Soo-Jin , Lee Seung-Whan , Lee Cheol Whan , Park Seong-Wook
Published: March 2015

Background—

Changes over time in revascularization strategies and outcomes among patients with unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis remain largely unknown.

Methods and Results—

A total of 2618 consecutive patients with unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis who underwent revascularization were identified from the ASAN Medical Center-Left MAIN Revascularization registry and classified by time periods: bare metal stent (wave 1, 1995–1998), early drug-eluting stents (wave 2, 2003–2006), and late drug-eluting stents (wave 3, 2007–2010). Primary end point was major adverse cerebrocardiovascular events (the composite of death, myocardial infarction, repeat revascularization, and stroke). During the study period, 1124 patients underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) and 1494 patients underwent coronary artery bypass grafting. The proportion of PCI significantly increased from 35% to 52% between waves 1 and 3. In patients receiving PCI, the risk-adjusted incidence rate of major adverse cerebro-cardiovascular events decreased from 20.18 cases per 100 person-years in wave 1 to 6.77 cases per 100 person-years in wave 3 (
P
<0.001 for trend). Death, the composite of death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and repeat revascularization were also significantly decreased by 40%, 35%, and 46%, respectively. The risk-adjusted incidence rate of major adverse cerebrocardiovascular events did not change in patients receiving coronary artery bypass grafting. The difference major adverse cerebrocardiovascular events risk between PCI and coronary artery bypass grafting progressively reduced (adjusted hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 0.33 [0.23–0.47]; 0.53 [0.35–0.80]; and 1.01 [0.68–1.49] from wave 1 to wave 3.

Conclusions—

The outcomes of unprotected left main coronary artery PCI have significantly improved over time. In addition, more patients received PCI for unprotected left main coronary artery stenosis in recent years.
Association Between Newborn Birth Weight and the Risk of Postpartum Maternal Venous Thromboembolism
Authors: Blondon Marc , Quon Bradley S. , Harrington Laura B. , Bounameaux Henri , Smith Nicholas L.
Published: March 2015

Background—

Postpartum venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a potentially fatal and preventable event leading to substantial short- and long-term morbidity. We sought to evaluate whether the delivery of term newborns of low or high birth weight was associated with greater risks of VTE.

Methods and Results—

In a population-based case–control study conducted in Washington State from 1987 through 2011, cases of hospitalized VTE within 3 months of delivery were identified by using selected
International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision, Clinical Modification
codes. Controls were randomly selected postpartum women without VTE, matched on birth year. Birth weight and other maternal and pregnancy characteristics were extracted from birth certificate data. Among term live singleton deliveries, we compared the risk of VTE for mothers of newborns of low and high birth weights (<2500 g and >4000 g, respectively) versus mothers of newborns of normal birth weight (2500–4000 g). Logistic regression models were adjusted for maternal age, race, education, body mass index, parity, delivery methods, gestational length, smoking, gestational diabetes mellitus, and preeclampsia. Patients with VTE (n=547) were older, had a higher body mass index, and experienced more pregnancy-related complications than controls (n=9482). In comparison with mothers of newborns with normal birth weight, mothers of newborns with low birth weight had a 3-fold increased risk of VTE, which persisted after multivariable adjustment (odds ratio, 2.98; 95% confidence interval, 1.80–4.93). Mothers of newborns with high birth weight had only a slightly increased risk of VTE, which was attenuated after multivariable adjustment (odds ratio, 1.26; 95% confidence interval, 0.99–1.61).

Conclusions—

The delivery of a newborn with low birth weight is associated with a 3-fold increased risk of maternal postpartum VTE. This should be considered when assessing VTE risk at delivery.
Validity of Shape as a Predictive Biomarker of Final Infarct Volume in Acute Ischemic Stroke
Authors: Frindel Carole , Rouanet Anaïs , Giacalone Mathilde , Cho Tae-Hee , Østergaard Leif , Fiehler Jens , Pedraza Salvador , Baron Jean-Claude , Wiart Marlène , Berthezène Yves , Nighoghossian Norbert , Rousseau David
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose—

This study examines whether lesion shape documented on magnetic resonance diffusion-weighted imaging during acute stroke improves the prediction of the final infarct volume compared with lesion volume only.

Methods—

Diffusion-weighted imaging data and clinical information were retrospectively reviewed in 110 consecutive patients who underwent (n=67) or not (n=43) thrombolytic therapy for acute ischemic stroke. Three-dimensional shape analysis was performed on admission diffusion-weighted imaging data and 5 shape descriptors were developed. Final infarct volume was measured on T2-fluid-attenuated inversion recovery imaging data performed 30 days after stroke.

Results—

Shape analysis of acute ischemic lesion and more specifically the ratio of the bounding box volume to the lesion volume before thrombolytic treatment improved the prediction of the final infarct for patients undergoing thrombolysis (
R
2
=0.86 in model with volume;
R
2
=0.98 in model with volume and shape).

Conclusions—

Our findings suggest that lesion shape contains important predictive information and reflects important environmental factors that might determine the progression of ischemia from the core.
Quantitative Assessment of Changes in Cerebral Arteriovenous Malformation Hemodynamics After Embolization
Authors: Alaraj Ali , Amin-Hanjani Sepideh , Shakur Sophia F. , Aletich Victor A. , Ivanov Alexander , Carlson Andrew P. , Oh Gerald , Charbel Fady T.
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose—

Embolization reduces flow in arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) before surgical resection, but achievement of this goal is determined subjectively from angiograms. Here, we quantify effects of embolization on AVM flow.

Methods—

Records of patients who underwent AVM embolization at our institution between 2007 and 2013 and had flow rates obtained pre- and postembolization using quantitative magnetic resonance angiography were retrospectively reviewed. Total flow was estimated as aggregate flow within primary arterial feeders or flow in single draining veins.

Results—

Twenty-one patients were included (mean age 35 years, 24% hemorrhagic presentation) with Spetzler–Martin grades 1 to 4. Fifty-four total embolization sessions were performed. The mean AVM flow was 403.4±262.4 mL/min at baseline, 285.3±246.4 mL/min after single session (29% drop,
P
<0.001), and 102.0±103.3 mL/min after all sessions of embolization (75% drop,
P
<0.001). Total number of pedicles embolized (
P
<0.001) and embolization of an intranidal fistula during any session (
P
=0.002) were significantly associated with total decreased flow postembolization. On multivariate analysis, total pedicles embolized was predictive of total flow drop (
P
<0.001). However, pedicles embolized per session did not correlate with flow drop related to that session (
P
=0.44).

Conclusions—

AVM flow changes after embolization can be measured using quantitative magnetic resonance angiography. The total number of pedicles embolized after multiple embolization sessions was predictive of final flow, indicating this parameter is the best angiographic marker of a hemodynamically successful intervention. The number of pedicles embolized per session, however, did not correlate with flow drop in that session, likely because of flow redistribution after partial embolization.
Additional Diagnostic Value of Computed Tomography Perfusion for Detection of Acute Ischemic Stroke in the Posterior Circulation
Authors: van der Hoeven Erik J.R.J. , Dankbaar Jan Willem , Algra Ale , Vos Jan Albert , Niesten Joris M. , van Seeters Tom , van der Schaaf Irene C. , Schonewille Wouter J. , Kappelle L. Jaap , Velthuis Birgitta K.
Published: March 2015

Background and Purpose—

Detection of acute infarction in the posterior circulation is challenging. We aimed to determine the additional value of tomograpy (CT) perfusion to noncontrast CT and CT angiography source images for infarct detection and localization in patients suspected of acute ischemic posterior circulation stroke.

Methods—

Patients with suspected acute ischemic posterior circulation stroke were selected from the Dutch acute Stroke Trial (DUST) study. Patients underwent noncontrast CT, CT angiography, and CT perfusion within 9 hours after stroke onset and CT or MRI on follow-up. Images were evaluated for signs and location of ischemia. Discrimination of 3 hierarchical logistic regression models (noncontrast CT [A], added CT angiography source images [B], and CT perfusion [C]) was compared with
C
-statistics.

Results—

Of 88 patients, 76 (86%) had a clinical diagnosis of ischemic stroke on discharge and 42 patients (48%) showed a posterior circulation infarct on follow-up imaging. Model C (area under the curve from the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.86; 95% confidence interval, 0.77–0.94) predicted an infarct in the posterior circulation territory better than models A (area under the curve from the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.64; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.76;
P
C versus A
<0.001) and B (area under the curve from the receiver operating characteristic curve=0.68; 95% confidence interval, 0.56–0.79;
P
C versus B
<0.001).

Conclusions—

CT perfusion has significant additional diagnostic values to noncontrast CT and CT angiography source images for detecting ischemic changes in patients suspected of acute posterior circulation stroke.
Abundance, relative growth and fecundity of Emerita rathbunae Schmitt, 1935 (Decapoda, Anomura, Hippidae) in the S.E. Gulf of California, Mexico
Authors: Ríos-Elósegui Daniela , Hendrickx Michel E.
Published: March 2015

Specimens of the mole crabEmerita rathbunaeSchmitt, 1935, were collected during a one-year period along two sandy beaches in the S.E. Gulf of California, Mexico. A total of 2171 specimens were examined. Only 8% of the collected females were ovigerous. The large majority of males (95%) were collected in the sand as “free living” males, while the rest (39 individuals) were “dwarf males”, with developed genital papilla, 95% of which were found attached to females. Density for pooled samples reached an overall maximum of 309.8 orgs/m2in February and a minimum in April (65.0 orgs/m2). Females always outnumbered males, except in February. Ovigerous females were observed in the first half of the study period (February to September). Proportions of males were very similar throughout the study period, while indeterminate specimens were proportionally more abundant in its second half. Relationships between CW and CL for both males and females were highly correlated and isometric. Relationships between size and weight were highly correlated in both males and non-ovigerous females for pooled samples or for each sampling zone, and in each case growth was isometric. The number of eggs per ovigerous female varied considerably, from 910 to 22 866, and the relationship between number of eggs per batch and body size was poorly correlated. In the study area,E. rathbunaeappears to have a rather restricted reproduction period. A larger series of data combined with the analysis of other environmental factors, such as beach profiles, current patterns and primary productivity, might bring some additional information on this species biology and ecology. Due to the key role that mole crabs play in the food web of sandy beaches, special attention should be provided to this particular habitat.
A new species of cirolanid isopod (Peracarida, Isopoda) collected from Cenote Aerolito, Cozumel Island, northwestern Caribbean
Authors: Ortiz Manuel , Cházaro-Olvera Sergio
Published: March 2015

A new species ofCirolanaLeach, 1818, collected from Cenote Aerolito, Cozumel Island, Mexican Caribbean, is described.Cirolana(Anopsilana)adrianisp. nov. has a body 2.7× as long as wide, widest at pereonites 5-6; cephalon smooth, with small rostral point; pereonites without tubercles or ridges; antenna 2 not surpassing back of segment 2 of pereon; pleonite 4 lacking free ventrolateral margins; pleotelson as long as wide, smooth, with 9 distal robust setae; appendix masculina extremely long, 2× as long as endopod of pleopod 2. The main differences between the new species and the marine speciesCirolana(Anopsilana)jonesi(Kensley, 1987) andC.(A.)sinu(Kensley & Schotte, 1994), as well as the stygobitic speciesC.(A.)yucatanaBotosaneanu & Iliffe, 2000, the most similar known species ofCirolana(Anopsilana) in the region, are described. This is the second isopod of the genusCirolanarecorded from the karstic systems of the Yucatan Peninsula.
Effects of stocking density and shelter type on the growth and survival of pandalid shrimp (Pandalopsis japonica Balss, 1914) juveniles
Authors: Park Kie-Young , Park Heum-Gi , Kwon O-Nam
Published: March 2015

In this study, we determined the optimal shelter type by comparisons of growth, survival and RNA/DNA ratio of Pandalopsis japonica juveniles after rearing for 1 month and examining the effects of some shelters. The shelters used were brush-type, coloured pompons, and vinyl blankets. Attachment of individuals was highest, 117.7 ± 9.29 shrimp/900 cm2, with brush-type shelters. In rearing experiments for 1 month with four shelters and two stocking densities, carapace length (4.44-4.48 mm), wet weight (119.1-126.9 mg/ind.) and RNA/DNA ratio (0.11-0.12) were not significantly different between the treatments. Survival was highest with the brush-type shelter, but values were not significantly related to stocking density. In conclusion, the shelter type most enhancing attachment to the substrate and survival was a brush-type shelter. Regarding stocking density, survival was higher with a lower stocking density (60 juveniles/900 cm2). Thus, the quantities of reared shrimp can be enhanced by introducing shelters in aquaculture tanks.
Notes on Early Land Plants Today. 68. Miscellaneous notes on Marchantiophyta
Authors: Söderström Lars , Vana Jiri , Crandall-Stotler Barbara , Renner Matt , Hagborg Anders , Von Konrat Matt
Published: March 2015

During work with the forthcoming world checklist of hornworts and liverworts (Söderström et al., in press) a number of nomenclatural problems have been detected and most have been dealt with in the series “Notes on Early Land Plants Today” published in Phytotaxa. However, some more corrections are needed. They are dealt with here.
Taxonomic notes on Chiococca and Salzmannia (Rubiaceae, Chiococceae) in northeastern Brazil, with a new combination and a new species
Authors: Jardim Jomar Gomes , TAYLOR CHARLOTTE M. , BARBOSA Maria REGINA , PESSOA MARIA DO CÉO R.
Published: March 2015

Chiococca and Salzmannia are similar and related, but have not been well studied. A review of their morphology clarified their separation and found that some variation documented in Chiococca has been overlooked, and the corolla lobes of Salzmannia are narrowly imbricated, not valvate in bud, and its flowers are protandrous and homostylous, with the style markedly elongated after anthesis. Chiococca is represented in northeastern Brazil by four species, and their distinctions are clarified. The problematic species Erithalis insularis, of Fernando de Noronha Island, better agrees morphologically and biogeographically with Chiococca, and is here transferred to this genus with the new combination Chiococca insularis; Erithalis is therefore restricted to the Caribbean basin. Salzmannia is endemic to coastal eastern and northeastern Brazil, and comprises two species; S. arborea, described here, is found along the coast of Bahia and notable in its tree habit and dimorphic vegetative and reproductive stems.
Religiosity, gender attitudes and women’s labour market participation and fertility decisions in Europe
Authors: Guetto Raffaele , Luijkx Ruud , Scherer Stefani
Published: March 2015

The Second Demographic Transition (SDT) theory underlines the importance of changing values and attitudes to explain the trend toward low fertility and raising female labour market participation. We contribute to this debate comparing religiosity and gender attitudes over several European countries using three waves of the European Values Study (1990, 1999 and 2008). By dealing with the issues of measurement invariance and endogeneity between values and behaviour, our results support some critiques of the SDT theory. The pace of the process of sociocultural change has not been the same across European countries and the forerunners of the SDT, that is, the most secularized and gender-egalitarian societies, now have the highest female labour market participation rates and the highest fertility. We provide evidence for a ‘macro–micro paradox’ regarding the role of values on family behaviours. Religiosity is positively correlated with fertility and housewifery, while gender attitudes are only correlated with women’s labour market decisions. These correlations are stronger in more traditional countries, even if aggregate fertility is lower. We stress the necessity to integrate cultural and structural explanations, suggesting the lack of family policies and the rigidity of the family formation process as possible mechanisms to unravel this paradox.
Identification of a Novel CLRN1 Gene Mutation in Usher Syndrome Type 3
Authors: Yoshimura Hidekane , Oshikawa Chie , Nakayama Jun , Moteki Hideaki , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: March 2015

Objective:

This study examines the CLRN1 gene mutation analysis in Japanese patients who were diagnosed with Usher syndrome type 3 (USH3) on the basis of clinical findings.

Methods:

Genetic analysis using massively parallel DNA sequencing (MPS) was conducted to search for 9 causative USH genes in 2 USH3 patients.

Results:

We identified the novel pathogenic mutation in the CLRN1 gene in 2 patients. The missense mutation was confirmed by functional prediction software and segregation analysis. Both patients were diagnosed as having USH3 caused by the CLRN1 gene mutation.

Conclusion:

This is the first report of USH3 with a CLRN1 gene mutation in Asian populations. Validating the presence of clinical findings is imperative for properly differentiating among USH subtypes. In addition, mutation screening using MPS enables the identification of causative mutations in USH. The clinical diagnosis of this phenotypically variable disease can then be confirmed.
Novel ABHD12 Mutations in PHARC Patients
Authors: Yoshimura Hidekane , Hashimoto Takao , Murata Toshinori , Fukushima Kunihiro , Sugaya Akiko , Nishio Shin-ya , Usami Shin-ichi
Published: March 2015

Objective:

This study examines ABHD12 mutation analysis in 2 PHARC patients, originally thought to be Usher syndrome.

Methods:

The ABHD12 gene of 2 patients, who suffered from deaf-blindness and dysfunctional central and peripheral nervous systems, were sequenced.

Results:

We identified that both cases carried the same novel splice site mutation in the ABHD12 gene. However, 1 had epilepsy and the other had peripheral neuropathy. Based on haplotype analysis, the mutation is likely not a hot spot, but rather could be attributable to a common ancestor.

Conclusion:

This study shows that PHARC has phenotypic variability, even within a family, which is consistent with previous reports. Differential diagnosis of “deaf-blindness” diseases is crucial. Confirming the presence of associated symptoms is necessary for differentiating some deaf-blindness syndromes. In addition, mutation analysis is a useful tool for confirming the diagnosis.
Altered Quality of Life and Psychological Health (SCL-90-R) in Patients With Chronic Rhinosinusitis With Nasal Polyps
Authors: Chung Jae Ho , Lee Yun Jae , Kang Tae Wook , Kim Kyung Rae , Jang Dong Pyo , Kim In Young , Cho Seok Hyun
Published: March 2015

Objectives:

To investigate the impact of olfactory dysfunction on quality of life (QOL) and psychological status in patients with chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP).

Methods:

A retrospective observational study was conducted from January 2011 to May 2012 with 130 patients with septal deviation (SD) (n = 59) and CRSwNP (n = 71). All patients underwent computed tomography (CT), allergy tests, and sniffin’ stick olfactory test. Anosmia was defined by Threshold-Discrimination-Identification (TDI) scores less than 16. QOL and psychological symptoms were assessed with the Sinonasal Outcome Test-20 (SNOT-20) and Symptom Checklist-90-Revised (SCL-90-R).

Results:

Odor discrimination and identification scores were significantly lower in CRSwNP than in SD ( P = .008 and P = .005, respectively). In CRSwNP, identification score decreased with higher CT score ( r = −0.29, P = .014). CRSwNP with anosmia showed a decreased QOL ( P = .044), and SNOT-20 negatively correlated with TDI in severe CRSwNP (CT score ≥15, r = −0.714, P = .001). Anosmia patients had higher anxiety and phobia scores of SCL-90-R in both SD and CRSwNP. However, depression score increased only in CRSwNP with anosmia ( P = .025).

Conclusion:

Olfactory dysfunction may have significant effects on QOL and psychological health. CRSwNP with anosmia is a distinct phenotype having mixed type of olfactory loss that might have a detrimental effect on depression.
Current Understanding of Pathogenesis and Treatment of TMJ Osteoarthritis
Authors: Wang X.D. , Zhang J.N. , Gan Y.H. , Zhou Y.H.
Published: March 2015

Osteoarthritis is a common disease that can cause severe pain and dysfunction in any joint, including the temporomandibular joint (TMJ). TMJ osteoarthritis (TMJOA) is an important subtype in the classification of temporomandibular disorders. TMJOA pathology is characterized by progressive cartilage degradation, subchondral bone remodeling, and chronic inflammation in the synovial tissue. However, the exact pathogenesis and process of TMJOA remain to be understood. An increasing number of studies have recently focused on inflammation and remodeling of subchondral bone during the early stage of TMJOA, which may elucidate the possible mechanism of initiation and progression of TMJOA. The treatment strategy for TMJOA aims at relieving pain, preventing the progression of cartilage and subchondral bone destruction, and restoring joint function. Conservative therapy with nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, splint, and physical therapy, such as low-energy laser and arthrocentesis, are the most common treatments for TMJOA. These therapies are effective in most cases in relieving the signs and symptoms, but their long-term therapeutic effect on the pathologic articular structure is unsatisfactory. A treatment that can reverse the damage of TMJOA remains unavailable to date. Treatments that prevent the progression of cartilage degradation and subchondral bone damage should be explored, and regeneration for the TMJ may provide the ideal long-term solution. This review summarizes the current understanding of mechanisms underlying the pathogenesis and treatment of TMJOA.
Colonial Histories and Decolonial Dreams in the Ecuadorean Amazon
Authors: Holst Joshua
Published: March 2015

The political changes sweeping Latin America have inspired scholars to declare a “post-neoliberal” era, some even suggesting a potential reversal of colonialism. Despite progressive political discourse in Ecuador, the indigenous movement continues to resist the state. Underlying the conflict between the indigenous and the state is a long-standing conflict between economic growth and the environment. Since Ecuador’s economy relies on Amazonian natural resources, the post-neoliberal Ecuadorean state requires colonial advances into indigenous territory to fund its progressive social programs. The opposite of colonialism is autonomy, which in the right hands can represent a true development alternative.

Los cambios políticos arrasando América Latina han inspirado a los académicos a declarar una era “posneoliberal,” algunos incluso sugiriendo una inversión potencial de colonialismo. A pesar del discurso político progresista en el Ecuador, el movimiento indígena continúa resistiendo el Estado. Detrás del conflicto entre los indígenas y el Estado es un conflicto antiguo entre el crecimiento económico y el medio ambiente. Como la economía de Ecuador se basa en los recursos naturales de la Amazonía, el Estado ecuatoriano posneoliberal requiere avances coloniales en territorio indígena para financiar sus programas sociales progresistas. Lo contrario del colonialismo es la autonomía, que en las manos adecuadas puede representar una verdadera alternativa de desarrollo.
Argentina’s Trials
Authors: Kaiser Susana
Published: March 2015

The last Argentine dictatorship (1976–1983) left a legacy of an estimated 30,000 desaparecidos (disappeared people). Three decades later, the wall of impunity is now being torn down. Trials are spreading across Argentina and hundreds of repressors are being judged. These trials are public spaces for collective memory making, political arenas for competing memory battles, and forums in which new information and perspectives about what happened under state terrorism continually emerge. Through the testimonies of survivors and the claims of the defense teams we gain new knowledge about the level and scope of the human rights abuses, how the repressive apparatus worked, the everyday “normality” of state terrorism, and society’s complicity.

La última dictadura argentina (1976–1983) dejó un legado de cerca de 30,000 desaparecidos. Tres décadas más tarde, el muro de la impunidad está siendo derribado. Los juicios se multiplican por todo el país y cientos de represores están siendo enjuiciados. Estos juicios son espacios públicos para la construcción de la memoria colectiva, escenarios politicos para las batallas sobre la memoria y foros en los que continuamente surgen nuevas perspectivas e información sobre lo ocurrido bajo el terrorismo de estado. A través del testimonio de los sobrevivientes y los reclamos de los equipos de defensa legal surge un nuevo conocimiento acerca del nivel y el alcance de los abusos de los derechos humanos y sobre cómo funcionaba el aparato represivo, la “normalidad” cotidiana del terrrorismo de estado y la complicidad de la sociedad.
From Blanket Impunity to Judicial Opening(s)
Authors: Lessa Francesca , Levey Cara
Published: March 2015

With the increasing opportunities for justice ushered in by the repeal of the Full Stop and Due Obedience laws in 2005, the struggles for memory and justice by Argentina’s H.I.J.O.S. (Sons and Daughters for Identity and Justice against Forgetting and Silence) have shifted focus. Pre-2005, the organization used escraches (public demonstrations in which the perpetrators of human rights violations are “outed”) to respond to the problem of top-down impunity in Argentina, condemn the atrocities, and expose the legal immunity enjoyed by the perpetrators. Post-2005, it has employed escraches to bring to the fore shortcomings in the judicial sphere by widening its selection of targets. Furthermore, new activities outside and inside the courtroom reflect the new landscape of justice, celebrating the advent of justice and accompanying victims, survivors, and witnesses in this process while continuing to highlight persistent shortcomings and obstacles in the judicial sphere.

Con las nuevas oportunidades para la justicia que trajo la anulación de las leyes de Punto Final y de Obediencia Debida en 2005, la organización argentina H.I.J.O.S. (Hijos e Hijas por la Identidad y la Justicia contra el Olvido y el Silencio) ha reorientado el enfoque de sus luchas por la memoria y la justicia. Antes de 2005, la organización usaba los escraches (manifestaciones públicas en las cuales los responsables de violaciones derechos humanos son “sacados del closet” o puestos al descubierto) para responder al problema de la impunidad en la Argentina, condenar las atrocidades y poner de manifiesto la impunidad legal de la cual gozaban los autores de las violaciones. Después de 2005, los escraches ampliaron la selección de sus blancos de ataque y sirvieron para llamar la atención sobre las deficiencias del sistema judicial. Además, las nuevas actividades fuera y dentro de los tribunales reflejan el nuevo panorama de la justicia, al celebrar la llegada de la misma y acompañar a las víctimas, a los sobrevivientes y a los testigos en este proceso mientras continúan denunciando las deficiencias y los obstáculos persistentes en la esfera judicial.
A Case of Diversified Dependency
Authors: Gamso Jonas
Published: March 2015

After decades of being primarily dependent upon the United States, Ecuador appears to be experiencing a diversification of dependency as alternative sources for trade and investment have emerged to challenge Washington. This diversification is in turn increasing Ecuador’s political autonomy, as demonstrated by the Correa administration’s policy shift away from the Washington Consensus. Diversified dependency is framing Ecuador’s policy options and may frame those of other peripheral states in the context of an increasingly multipolar global economy. Peripheral states will find themselves under pressure from multiple, often competing core states to enact certain policies; at the same time, diversification should provide them leverage in bilateral relations with each of the core states upon which they depend.

Después de décadas de depender principalmente de los Estados Unidos, el Ecuador parece estar experimentando una diversificación de su dependencia a medida que surgen fuentes alternativas para el comercio y la inversión que son un desafío a Washington. Esta diversificación a su vez aumenta la autonomía política del Ecuador como lo demuestran los cambios en la política del gobierno de Correa que se sigue apartando del Consenso de Washington. Esta dependencia diversificada está enmarcando las opciones políticas del Ecuador y podría enmarcar las de otros estados periféricos en el contexto de una economía mundial más multipolar. Los estados periféricos recibirán la presión de múltiples estados del centro, con frecuencia rivales, para que aprueben determinadas políticas; a la vez, esta diversificación debería proveerles una ventaja en las relaciones bilaterales con cada uno de los estados del centro de los que dependen.