bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recent observations of sooty bark disease of sycamore maple in Prague (Czech Republic) and the phylogenetic placement of Cryptostroma corticale
Authors: Koukol O. , Kelnarová I. , Černý K.
Published: June 2014

The anamorphic fungus Cryptostroma corticale (Xylariaceae) causing sooty bark disease (SBD) of Acer pseudoplatanus has been reported within the past decade in several European countries. In the last decade, severe drought conditions during summer also resulted in an outbreak of SBD in park areas in Prague (Czech Republic). Trees with the typical syndromes were recorded in four localities in Prague. Some trees were also located in the alluvial plain of the Vltava River with groundwater available all year long. We suppose that the trees were stressed by full water saturation for several months after flood in 2012 and that SBD was triggered by anoxia and subsequent phytopththora root rot. Sterile fungi isolated from one tree and one lesion were identified as C. corticale based on the similarity of their ITS rDNA sequences with strains of C. corticale in a public collection. Furthermore, C. corticale was placed in the family Xylariaceae within the genus Biscogniauxia based on phylogenetic analysis of four genes (ITS nrDNA, actin, RPB2 and β‐tubulin). The closest relatives are B. bartholomei and Graphostroma platystoma.
Behavioural activation therapy for adolescents ‘at risk’ for psychosis?
Authors: Welsh Patrick , Kitchen Charlotte E.W. , Ekers David , Webster Lisa , Tiffin Paul A.
Published: June 2014

The following hypothesis explores the possibility of using behavioural activation therapy for adolescents with an at‐risk mental state for psychosis. Support is drawn from psychosis‐related survey and pilot data as well as a robust evidence base for adult depression. However, we acknowledge that extensive feasibility work is required before exploring this hypothesis further.
Depressive symptoms in first‐episode psychosis: a 10‐year follow‐up study
Authors: Sönmez Nasrettin , Røssberg Jan Ivar , Evensen Julie , Barder Helene Eidsmo , Haahr Ulrik , ten Velden Hegelstad Wenche , Joa Inge , Johannessen Jan Olav , Langeveld Hans , Larsen Tor Ketil , Melle Ingrid , Opjordsmoen Stein , Rund Bjørn Rishovd , Simonsen Erik , Vaglum Per , McGlashan Thomas , Friis Svein
Published: June 2014

Aims

The present study examined if any patient characteristics at baseline predicted depressive symptoms at 10 years and whether patients prone to depressive symptoms in the first year of treatment had a different prognosis in the following years.

Method

A total of 299 first‐episode psychosis (FEP) patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorders were assessed for depressive symptoms with PANSS depression item (g6) at baseline, and 1, 2, 5 and 10 years of follow up. At 10 years, depressive symptoms were also assessed with Calgary Depression Scale for Schizophrenia (CDSS). A PANSS g6 ≥ 4 and CDSS score ≥ 6 were used as a cut‐off score for depression.

Results

A total of 122 (41%) patients were scored as depressed at baseline, 75 (28%) at 1 year, 50 (20%) at 2 years, 33 (16%) at 5 years, and 35 (19%) at 10 years of follow up. Poor childhood social functioning and alcohol use at baseline predicted depression at 10 years of follow up. Thirty‐eight patients were depressed at both baseline and 1 year follow up. This group had poorer symptomatic and functional outcome in the follow‐up period compared to a group of patients with no depression in the first year of treatment.

Conclusion

Depressive symptoms are frequent among FEP patients at baseline but decrease after treatment because their general symptoms have been initiated. Patients with poor social functioning in childhood and alcohol use at baseline are more prone to have depressive symptoms at 10 years of follow up. Patients struggling with depressive symptoms in the first year of treatment should be identified as having poorer long‐term prognosis.
Outcome measures in haemophilia: a systematic review
Authors: Boehlen Françoise , Graf Lukas , Berntorp Erik
Published: June 2014

Haemophilia A and B are hereditary X‐linked disorders due to deficiency (or absence) of coagulation factor VIII or IX, respectively. Bleeding risk is related to the severity of factor deficiency. Repeated joint bleeding can lead to a severe haemophilic arthropathy resulting in disabilities. Outcome measurements in persons with haemophilia (PWH) have been limited to laboratory evaluation (factor VIII or IX levels) and clinical outcomes (such as bleeding frequency), morbidity (for example linked with arthropathy) and mortality. Due to the new standard of care of PWH, there is a need to consider other outcome measures, such as the early detection and quantification of joint disease, health‐related quality of life (QoL) and economic or cost–utility analyses. To investigate this, we performed a 10‐yr systematic overview of outcome measures in haemophilia. Only clinical trials including at least 20 patients with haemophilia A or B were included. To facilitate the search strategy, eight issues of outcome measures were selected: physical scores, imaging technique scores, functional scores, QoL measurement, mortality, bleeding frequency, cost and outcome and bone mineral density. The results of these will be discussed. Clearly defined outcomes in haemophilia care are important for many reasons, to evaluate new treatments, to justify treatment strategies, to allow a good follow‐up, to perform studies and to allocate resources. The use of such scoring systems is clearly recommended by experts in haemophilia care. However, most centres do not perform such scores outside clinical trials due to reasons such as lack of time and resources.
Rhizospheric organic compounds in the soil–microorganism–plant system: their role in iron availability
Authors: Mimmo T. , Del Buono D. , Terzano R. , Tomasi N. , Vigani G. , Crecchio C. , Pinton R. , Zocchi G. , Cesco S.
Published: June 2014

Poor iron (Fe) availability in soil represents one of the most important limiting factors of agricultural production and is closely linked to physical, chemical and biological processes within the rhizosphere as a result of soil–microorganism–plant interactions. Iron shortage induces several mechanisms in soil organisms, resulting in an enhanced release of inorganic (such as protons) and organic (organic acids, carbohydrates, amino acids, phytosiderophores, siderophores, phenolics and enzymes) compounds to increase the solubility of poorly available Fe pools. However, rhizospheric organic compounds (ROCs) have short half‐lives because of the large microbial activity at the soil–root interface, which might limit their effects on Fe mobility and acquisition. In addition, ROCs also have a selective effect on the microbial community present in the rhizosphere. This review aims therefore to unravel these complex dynamics with the objective of providing an overview of the rhizosphere processes involved in Fe acquisition by soil organisms (plants and microorganisms). In particular, the review provides information on (i) Fe availability in soils, including mineral weathering and Fe mobilization from soil minerals, ligand and element competition and plant‐microbe competition; (ii) microbe–plant interactions, focusing on beneficial microbial communities and their association with plants, which in turn influences plant mineral nutrition; (iii) plant–soil interactions involving the metabolic changes triggered by Fe deficiency and the processes involved in exudate release from roots; and (iv) the influence of agrochemicals commonly used in agricultural production systems on rhizosphere processes related to Fe availability and acquisition by crops.
Targeting adenosine receptors to prevent inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Gessi Stefania , Merighi Stefania , Borea Pier Andrea
Published: June 2014

Adenosine mediates its effects through activation of a family of four G‐protein‐coupled receptors, named A1, A2A, A2B and A3. This nucleoside plays an important role in immunity and inflammation, and the A2A adenosine receptor subtype has a key role in the inhibition of inflammatory processes besides promoting wound healing. In this issue of Experimental Dermatology, Arasa et al. show that the topical application of a selective A2A agonist, CGS 21680, to mouse skin reduced epidermal hyperplasia as well as skin inflammation, similarly to topical corticoids, without side effects like skin atrophy. Rigorously following up this work is important for the development of novel treatment strategies for chronic hyperproliferative inflammatory dermatoses, such as targeting the A2A adenosine receptor family.
A collective navigation hypothesis for homeward migration in anadromous salmonids
Authors: Berdahl Andrew , Westley Peter A H , Levin Simon A , Couzin Iain D , Quinn Thomas P
Published: June 2014

Anadromous salmon (generaOncorhynchusandSalmo) spend much of their lives feeding in productive northern oceans and then return home to natal sites for reproduction with remarkable accuracy. The mechanisms used for navigation by individuals during migrations are thought to include geomagnetic, celestial and olfactory cues, but rarely are social interactions between individuals considered. Mounting evidence from other taxa indicates that individuals in larger groups can better sense and respond to environmental cues, thus potentially increasing their ability to navigate. Here, we propose that salmon might similarly benefit from collective navigation on their homeward journey. To explore this, we compiled data from multiple studies and found strong evidence that rates of successful homing increase with population abundance, consistent with collective navigation. We then discuss how collective navigation could benefit salmon during each stage of their seaward and homeward migrations, and complement this with a review of salmon sociality. Next, we analyse historic high‐seas catch records and provide new insight into schooling structure of salmon in the marine environment. We argue that collective navigation likely represents a presently under‐appreciated mechanism enhancing the navigational ability of salmon as well as other migratory species, and outline critical tests of our hypothesis.
Akt enhances Runx2 protein stability by regulating Smurf2 function during osteoblast differentiation
Authors: Choi You Hee , Kim Yeon‐Jin , Jeong Hyung Min , Jin Yun‐Hye , Yeo Chang‐Yeol , Lee Kwang Youl
Published: June 2014

Runx2 plays essential roles in bone formation and chondrocyte maturation. Akt promotes osteoblast differentiation induced by the bone morphogenetic proteins BMP2 and enhances the function and transcriptional activity of Runx2. However, the precise molecular mechanism underlying the relationship between Runx2 and Akt is not well understood. In this study, we examined the role of Akt in regulating Runx2 function. We found that Akt increases the stability of Runx2 protein. However, the level of Runx2 mRNA was not affected by Akt, and we did not find any evidence for direct modification of Runx2 by Akt. Instead, we found evidence that Akt induces the phosphorylation of the Smad ubiquitination regulatory factor Smurf2 and decreases the level of Smurf2 protein through ubiquitin/proteasome‐mediated degradation of Smurf2. Akt also alleviates Smurf2‐mediated suppression of Runx2 transcriptional activity. Taken together, our results suggest that Akt regulates osteoblast differentiation, at least in part, by enhancing the protein stability and transcriptional activity of Runx2 through regulation of ubiquitin/proteasome‐mediated degradation of Smurf2.
Crystal structure of the yeast TRAPP‐associated protein Tca17
Authors: Wang Chengcheng , Gohlke Ulrich , Roske Yvette , Heinemann Udo
Published: June 2014

The transport protein particle (TRAPP) is a hetero‐multimeric complex involved in the trafficking of COP II (coat protein complex II) vesicles. TRAPP is present in different eukaryotes from yeast to vertebrates and occurs in three distinct modifications with function in different intracellular transport steps. All forms contain a core of five essential subunits, and the different species of TRAPP are formed by the addition of various subunits. A recently identified TRAPP‐associated protein, Tca17, is supposed to be involved in the regulation of the transport complex. We have determined the three‐dimensional structure of yeast Tca17 by X‐ray crystallography at a resolution of 1.8 Å. It adopts the longin fold characteristic for the Bet5 family of TRAPP subunits, and it also shares a binding motif of these for the interaction with other members of the complex. Two alternative models of the localization of Tca17 within TRAPP as well as its potential role in the regulation of TRAPP function by transient integration into the complex are discussed.

Database

Structural data are available in the Protein Databank under accession number 3PR6.
Membrane remodeling capacity of a vesicle‐inducing glycosyltransferase
Authors: Ge Changrong , Gómez‐Llobregat Jordi , Skwark Marcin J. , Ruysschaert Jean‐Marie , Wieslander Åke , Lindén Martin
Published: June 2014

Intracellular vesicles are abundant in eukaryotic cells but absent in the Gram‐negative bacterium Escherichia coli. However, strong overexpression of a monotopic glycolipid‐synthesizing enzyme, monoglucosyldiacylglycerol synthase from Acholeplasma laidlawii (alMGS), leads to massive formation of vesicles in the cytoplasm of E. coli. More importantly, alMGS provides a model system for the regulation of membrane properties by membrane‐bound enzymes, which is critical for maintaining cellular integrity. Both phenomena depend on how alMGS binds to cell membranes, which is not well understood. Here, we carry out a comprehensive investigation of the membrane binding of alMGS by combining bioinformatics methods with extensive biochemical studies, structural modeling and molecular dynamics simulations. We find that alMGS binds to the membrane in a fairly upright manner, mainly by residues in the N‐terminal domain, and in a way that induces local enrichment of anionic lipids and a local curvature deformation. Furthermore, several alMGS variants resulting from substitution of residues in the membrane anchoring segment are still able to generate vesicles, regardless of enzymatic activity. These results clarify earlier theories about the driving forces for vesicle formation, and shed new light on the membrane binding properties and enzymatic mechanism of alMGS and related monotopic GT‐B fold glycosyltransferases.
Simeprevir (TMC435) once daily with peginterferon‐α‐2b and ribavirin in patients with genotype 1 hepatitis C virus infection: The CONCERTO‐4 study
Authors: Kumada Hiromitsu , Hayashi Norio , Izumi Namiki , Okanoue Takeshi , Tsubouchi Hirohito , Yatsuhashi Hiroshi , Kato Mai , Rito Ki , Komada Yuji , Seto Chiharu , Goto Shoichiro
Published: June 2014

Aim

The efficacy and safety of simeprevir in combination with peginterferon‐α‐2b and ribavirin (PEG IFN‐α‐2b/RBV) were investigated in patients infected with hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 who were treatment‐naïve or had previously received interferon (IFN)‐based therapy.

Methods

CONCERTO‐4 (NCT01366638) was an open‐label, non‐comparative, multicenter study of once‐daily simeprevir (TMC435) 100 mg in combination with PEG IFN‐α‐2b/RBV in treatment‐naïve and ‐experienced patients (prior relapsers or non‐responders to IFN‐based therapy) with chronic HCV genotype 1 infection. Twelve‐week combination treatment was followed by 24/48‐week response‐guided PEG IFN‐α‐2b/RBV therapy for treatment‐naïve patients and prior relapsers, and 48‐week PEG IFN‐α‐2b/RBV therapy for prior non‐responders. Patients were followed for 72 weeks after treatment initiation. The proportions of patients with sustained viral response (SVR; undetectable HCV RNA) at treatment end and 12 weeks after the last treatment (SVR12) were among the major efficacy end‐points. Safety, including adverse events (AE), was monitored.

Results

Of the 79 patients treated, the proportion achieving SVR12 was highest among treatment‐naïve patients (91.7%) and prior relapsers (100%) versus 38.5% of prior non‐responders. All treatment‐naïve patients and prior non‐responders who achieved SVR12 also achieved SVR at treatment end and 24 weeks after last dose; 96.6% of prior relapsers achieved both end‐points. Most AE were of grade 1 or 2 severity. Grade 3 AE occurred in 17 patients, most frequently neutropenia (6.3%).

Conclusion

Simeprevir combined with PEG IFN‐α‐2b/RBV was effective in patients infected with HCV genotype 1, both for initial treatment of naïve patients and for retreatment of patients in whom previous IFN‐based therapy had failed.
Histological characteristics of the abdominal aortic wall in patients with vascular chronic Q fever
Authors: Hagenaars Julia C. J. P. , Koning Olivier H. J. , van den Haak Ronald F. F. , Verhoeven Bart A. N. , Renders Nicole H. M. , Hermans Mirjam H. A. , Wever Peter C. , van Suylen Robert Jan
Published: June 2014

The aim of this study was to describe specific histological findings of the Coxiella burnetii‐infected aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall. Tissue samples of the aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall from seven patients with chronic Q fever and 15 patients without evidence of Q fever infection were analysed and compared. Chronic Q fever was diagnosed using serology and tissue PCR analysis. Histological sections were stained using haematoxylin and eosin staining, Elastica van Gieson staining and immunohistochemical staining for macrophages (CD68), T lymphocytes (CD3), T lymphocyte subsets (CD4 and CD8) and B lymphocytes (CD20). Samples were scored by one pathologist, blinded for Q fever status, using a standard score form. Seven tissue samples from patients with chronic Q fever and 15 tissue samples from patients without Q fever were collected. Four of seven chronic Q fever samples showed a necrotizing granulomatous response of the vascular wall, which was characterized by necrotic core of the arteriosclerotic plaque (P = 0.005) and a presence of high numbers of macrophages in the adventitia (P = 0.007) distributed in typical palisading formation (P = 0.005) and surrounded by the presence of high numbers of T lymphocytes located diffusely in media and adventitia. Necrotizing granulomas are a histological finding in the C. burnetii‐infected aneurysmal abdominal aortic wall. Chronic Q fever should be included in the list of infectious diseases with necrotizing granulomatous response, such as tuberculosis, cat scratch disease and syphilis.
Transition of Rituals in the Nagasaki City Atomic Bomb Memorial Ceremony
Authors: Fukuda Yu
Published: June 2014

This article focuses on rituals in the wake of a disaster, particularly those rituals that concern the dead. Previous studies have paid little attention to such rituals, which have developed and evolved over a long period of time. A diachronic case study of the Nagasaki atomic bomb memorial ceremony shows that memorial rituals gradually shift their attention from the dead to the living. The characteristics observed in this ceremony that orient towards the living can be distinguished from folk rituals, whose central object is to appease or comfort the dead, and also from political rituals, whose aim is to honor the dead and acknowledge the tragic past within a political framework. In addition to economic as well as political factors, the broadcasting of the Nagasaki ceremony on television is instrumental in the changes in these rites and the inclusion of the third‐person plural subject: the “we”, appears to be vital in apprehending the experience of violent death. Relying on historical materials, photographs, and data collected by participatory observation and interviews, this article aims to show how people use symbolic practices to make meaning out of violent death.
Deep sequencing of small RNA libraries reveals dynamic expression patterns of microRNAs in multiple developmental stages of Bactrocera dorsalis
Authors: Huang Y. , Dou W. , Liu B. , Wei D. , Liao C. Y. , Smagghe G. , Wang J.‐J.
Published: June 2014

In eukaryotes, microRNAs (miRNAs) are small, conserved, noncoding RNAs that have emerged as critical regulators of gene expression. The oriental fruit fly Bactrocera dorsalis is one of the most economically important fruit fly pests in East Asia and the Pacific. Although transcriptome analyses have greatly enriched our knowledge of its structural genes, little is known about post‐transcriptional regulation by miRNAs in this dipteran species. In this study, small RNA libraries corresponding to four B. dorsalis developmental stages (eggs, larvae, pupae and adults) were constructed and sequenced. Approximately 30.7 million reads of 18–30 nucleotides were obtained, with 123 known miRNAs and 60 novel miRNAs identified amongst these libraries. More than half of the miRNAs were stage‐specific during the four developmental stages. A set of miRNAs was found to be up‐ or down‐regulated during development by comparison of their reads at different developmental stages. Moreover, a small part of miRNAs owned both miR‐#‐3p and miR‐#‐5p types, with enormously variable miR‐#‐3p/miR‐#‐5p ratios in the same library and amongst different developmental stages for each miRNA. Taking these findings together, the current study has uncovered a number of miRNAs and provided insights into their possible involvement in developmental regulation by expression profiling of miRNAs. Further analyses of the expression and function of these miRNAs could increase our understanding of regulatory networks in this insect and lead to novel approaches for its control.
Matheuristics for the capacitated p‐median problem
Authors: Stefanello Fernando , de Araújo Olinto C. B. , Müller Felipe M.
Published: June 2014

The improvement in the performance of computers and mathematical programming techniques has led to the development of a new class of algorithms called matheuristics. Associated with an improvement of Mixed Integer Programming (MIP) solvers, these methods have successfully solved plenty of combinatorial optimization problems. This paper presents a matheuristic approach that hybridizes local search based metaheuristics and mathematical programming techniques to solve the capacitated p‐median problem. The proposal considers reduced mathematical models obtained by a heuristic elimination of variables that are unlikely to belong to a good or optimal solution. In addition, a partial optimization algorithm based on the reduction is proposed. All mathematical models are solved by an MIP solver. Computational experiments on five sets of instances confirm the good performance of our approach.
Acute Effects of an Oral Nitric Oxide Supplement on Blood Pressure, Endothelial Function, and Vascular Compliance in Hypertensive Patients
Authors: Houston Mark , Hays Laurie
Published: June 2014

This blinded placebo‐controlled crossover study evaluated the acute effects of an orally disintegrating lozenge that generates nitric oxide (NO) in the oral cavity on blood pressure (BP) response, endothelial function, and vascular compliance in unmedicated hypertensive patients. Thirty patients with clinical hypertension were recruited and enrolled in a blinded placebo‐controlled clinical trial in an outpatient setting. Average baseline BP in 30 patients was 144±3/91±1 mm Hg. NO supplementation resulted in a significant decrease of 4 mm Hg in resting systolic BP (P<.003) and a significant decrease of 5 mm Hg in diastolic BP (P<.002) from baseline and placebo after 20 minutes. In addition, there was a further statistically significant reduction by 6 mm Hg in both systolic and diastolic pressure after 60 minutes (P<.0001 vs baseline). After a half hour of a single dose, there was a significant improvement in vascular compliance as measured by augmentation index and, after 4 hours, a statistically significant improvement in endothelial function as measured by the EndoPAT (Itamar Medical, Franklin, MA). A single administration of an oral active NO supplement appears to acutely lower BP, improve vascular compliance, and restore endothelial function in patients with hypertension.
Exploration of Nuclear DNA Markers for Population Structure Assessment in the Desmid Micrasterias rotata (Zygnematophyceae, Streptophyta)
Authors: Jurdíková Katarína , Kulichová Jana , Bestová Helena , Leliaert Frederik , Škaloud Pavel
Published: June 2014

Freshwater green microalgae are diverse and widely distributed across the globe, yet the population structuring of these organisms is poorly understood. We assessed the degree of genetic diversity and differentiation of the desmid species, Micrasterias rotata. First, we compared the sequences of four nuclear regions (actin, gapC1, gapC2, and oee1) in 25 strains and selected the gapC1 and actin regions as the most appropriate markers for population structure assessment in this species. Population genetic structure was subsequently analyzed, based on seven populations from the Czech Republic and Ireland. Hudson's Snn statistics indicated that nearest‐neighbor sequences occurred significantly more frequently within geographical populations than within the wider panmictic population. Moreover, Irish populations consistently showed higher genetic diversity than the Czech samples. These results are in accordance with the unbalanced distribution of alleles in many land plant species; however, the large genetic diversity in M. rotata differs from levels of genetic diversity found in most land plants.
Characterization of lake minnow Eupallasella percnurus semen in relation to sperm morphology, regulation of sperm motility and interpopulation diversity
Authors: Dietrich G. J. , Pecio A. , Sikorska J. , Wolnicki J. , Słowińska M. , Hliwa P. , Kamiński R. , Andronowska A. , Ciereszko A.
Published: June 2014

Sperm morphology and regulation of sperm motility of lake minnow Eupallasella percnurus, an endangered cyprinid, were investigated. Milt characteristics from two isolated populations of E. percnurus were compared to characterize the interpopulation diversity. Electron microscopic studies revealed that E. percnurus spermatozoa comprise simple, uniflagellate, anacrosomal aquasperm with species‐specific features as an eccentrically located implantation of nuclear fossa and eccentric insertion of flagellum. Sperm motility was significantly inhibited by relatively low ion concentrations (150, 150 and 8 mM for NaCl, KCl and CaCl2, respectively). Sperm maintained a high motility rate over a wide pH range (5·5–10·5), which may reflect adaptation to a highly variable environment. The two E. percnurus populations were markedly different in milt volume, sperm concentration, seminal plasma pH, sperm motility and beat cross frequency, which may result from genetic differences and environmental conditions.
Quantifying the impact of environmental variables upon catch per unit effort of the blue shark Prionace glauca in the western English Channel
Authors: Mitchell J. D. , Collins K. J. , Miller P. I. , Suberg L. A.
Published: June 2014

The effect of environmental variables on blue shark Prionace glauca catch per unit effort (CPUE) in a recreational fishery in the western English Channel, between June and September 1998–2011, was quantified using generalized additive models (GAMs). Sea surface temperature (SST) explained 1·4% of GAM deviance, and highest CPUE occurred at 16·7° C, reflecting the optimal thermal preferences of this species. Surface chlorophyll a concentration (CHL) significantly affected CPUE and caused 27·5% of GAM deviance. Additionally, increasing CHL led to rising CPUE, probably due to higher productivity supporting greater prey biomass. The density of shelf‐sea tidal mixing fronts explained 5% of GAM deviance, but was non‐significant, with increasing front density negatively affecting CPUE. Time‐lagged frontal density significantly affected CPUE, however, causing 12·6% of the deviance in a second GAM and displayed a positive correlation. This outcome suggested a delay between the evolution of frontal features and the subsequent accumulation of productivity and attraction of higher trophic level predators, such as P. glauca.
Recent insights into host–pathogen interaction in white spot syndrome virus infected penaeid shrimp
Authors: Shekhar M S , Ponniah A G
Published: June 2014

Viral disease outbreaks are a major concern impeding the development of the shrimp aquaculture industry. The viral disease due to white spot syndrome virus (WSSV) observed in early 1990s still continues unabated affecting the shrimp farms and cause huge economic loss to the shrimp aquaculture industry. In the absence of effective therapeutics to control WSSV, it is important to understand viral pathogenesis and shrimp response to WSSV at the molecular level. Identification and molecular characterization of WSSV proteins and receptors may facilitate in designing and development of novel therapeutics and antiviral drugs that may inhibit viral replication. Investigations into host–pathogen interactions might give new insights to viral infectivity, tissue tropism and defence mechanism elicited in response to WSSV infection. However, due to the limited information on WSSV gene function and host immune response, the signalling pathways which are associated in shrimp pathogen interaction have also not been elucidated completely. In the present review, the focus is on those shrimp proteins and receptors that are potentially involved in virus infection or in the defence mechanism against WSSV. In addition, the major signalling pathways involved in the innate immune response and the role of apoptosis in host–pathogen interaction is discussed.
Electron microscopy of Ag–(Ni–O) core–shell nanowires
Authors: SINGH M. PRATAP , M Y REKHA , RAGHUPATHY Y. , SRIVASTAVA C.
Published: June 2014

This report provides information about an electrodeposition‐based two‐step synthesis methodology for producing core–shell Ag–(Ni–O) nanowires and their detailed structural and compositional characterization using electron microscopy technique. Nanowires were produced by employing anodic alumina templates with a pore diameter of 200 nm. In the first step of the synthesis process, nanocrystalline Ni–O was electrodeposited in a controlled manner such that it heterogeneously nucleated and grew only on the template pore walls without filling the pores from bottom upwards. This alumina template with pore walls coated with Ni–O was then utilized as a template during the electrodeposition of Ag in the second step. Electrodeposited Ag filled the template pores to finally produce Ag–(Ni–O) core–shell nanowires with an overall diameter of 200 nm.
Stabilization of a Computer‐Aided Implant Surgical Guide Using Existing Dental Implants with Conversion of an Overdenture to a Fixed Prosthesis
Authors: Rathi Nakul , Scherer Michael D. , McGlumphy Edwin
Published: June 2014

This clinical report describes a technique to stabilize a computer‐aided dental implant surgical guide to existing implants. A patient requested conversion of her existing mandibular implant‐assisted overdenture into a fixed complete denture. The surgical procedure was planned virtually, and the two existing dental implants were integrated into the surgical plan as a means to fixate the surgical guide. The implants were placed, and the patient's prosthesis was converted into an interim fixed complete denture.
Genetic Diversities of Cymbidium mosaic virus and Odontoglossum ringspot virus Isolates Based on the Coat Protein Genes from Orchids in Guangdong Province, China
Authors: Rao Xueqin , Li Yuan , Sun Jie , Li Xia , Li Menghan , Xiang Meimei
Published: June 2014

Orchids are some of the most important ornamental flowers. Cymbidium mosaic virus (CymMV) and Odontoglossum ringspot virus (ORSV) are the most prevalent and economically important viruses affecting orchids in China. In this study, 20 CymMV and 28 ORSV isolates were selected for genetic diversity analysis. The CymMV isolates shared 84.6–100% and 89.5–100% identities of coat protein (CP) at the nucleotide (nt) and amino acid (aa) levels, respectively. The identities of ORSV isolates were 96.4–100% (nt) and 92.5–99.4% (aa). The CP genes of CymMV were found to have genetic diversity, and the CP genes of ORSV were genetically conservative. These results can aid in designing effective disease‐control strategies.
Learning from caries‐free children in a high‐caries American Indian population
Authors: Albino Judith , Tiwari Tamanna , Henderson William G. , Thomas Jacob , Bryant Lucinda L. , Batliner Terrence S. , Braun Patricia A. , Wilson Anne , Quissell David O.
Published: June 2014

Objective

We aimed to identify salutogenic patterns of parental knowledge, behaviors, attitudes, and beliefs that may support resistance to early childhood caries (ECC) among a high caries population of preschool American Indian (AI) children.

Method

Participants were 981 child–parent dyads living on a Southwestern reservation who completed baseline assessments for an ongoing randomized clinical trial. T‐tests were used to assess differences between reported knowledge, behaviors, and beliefs of parents whose children were caries‐free (10.7 percent) and those whose children had caries (89.3 percent). Chi‐square analyses were used for categorical variables.

Results

Although there were no socio‐demographic differences, parents of caries‐free children viewed oral health as more important and reported more oral health knowledge and adherence to caries‐preventing behaviors for their children. Parents of caries‐free children were more likely to have higher internal locus of control, to perceive their children as less susceptible to caries, and to perceive fewer barriers to prevention. These parents also had higher sense of coherence scores and reported lower levels of personal distress and community‐related stress.

Conclusions

Effective interventions for ECC prevention in high‐caries AI populations may benefit from approaches that support and model naturally salutogenic behaviors.
Effects of the cholesteryl ester transfer protein inhibitor evacetrapib on lipoproteins, apolipoproteins and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure in healthy adults
Authors: Suico Jeffrey G , Wang Ming-Dauh , Friedrich Stuart , Cannady Ellen A , Konkoy Christopher S , Ruotolo Giacomo , Krueger Kathryn A
Published: June 2014

Objectives

We investigated the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of evacetrapib.

Methods

Healthy volunteers received multiple daily doses of evacetrapib (10–600 mg) administered for up to 15 days in a placebo-controlled study.

Key findings

Mean peak plasma concentrations of evacetrapib occurred at 4–6 h and terminal half-life ranged 24–44 h. Steady state was achieved at approximately 10 days; all subjects had undetectable levels of evacetrapib 3 weeks after their last dose. The trough inhibition of cholesteryl ester transfer protein (CETP) activity was 65 and 84% at 100 and 300 mg, respectively. At the highest dose (600 mg), evacetrapib significantly inhibited CETP activity (91%), increased HDL-C (87%) and apo AI (42%), and decreased LDL-C (29%) and apo B (26%) relative to placebo. For the highest dose tested, levels of evacetrapib, CETP activity, CETP mass, HDL-C and LDL-C returned to levels at or near baseline after a 2-week washout period. Evacetrapib at the highest dose tested did not produce any significant effect on 24-h ambulatory systolic or diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusions

Multiple doses of evacetrapib potently inhibited CETP activity, leading to substantial elevations in HDL-C and lowering of LDL-C. Evacetrapib was devoid of clinically relevant effects on blood pressure and mineralocorticoid levels.
Reverse TPLO for asymmetrical ‐premature closure of the proximal tibial physis in a dog
Authors: Demianiuk R. M. , Guiot L. P.
Published: June 2014

A 4 · 5‐month‐old, 13 · 8 kg, female neutered mixed breed dog was presented for evaluation of acute non‐weight bearing right pelvic limb lameness. Radiographs revealed a tibial tuberosity avulsion fracture for which open reduction/internal fixation was performed. Asymmetrical premature closure of the cranial aspect of the proximal tibial physis ensued with a tibial plateau angle of −12°. Abnormal stifle biomechanics resulted in lameness and caudal cruciate ligament fraying. Tibial plateau ‐levelling osteotomy was performed in standard fashion with the exception that the proximal tibial ‐fragment was rotated cranioproximally to increase the tibial plateau angle from −12° to +5° (reverse tibial ‐plateau levelling osteotomy). Normal healing and resolution of lameness followed and the dog remained ‐clinically healthy 2 years postoperatively. This case report demonstrates that any change in proximal tibial anatomy, whether traumatic, iatrogenic or with therapeutic intent, can cause altered stifle biomechanics and should not be underestimated. Surgical management through corrective ‐osteotomy can be used to restore adequate function.
Total vertebrectomy for stabilisation of chronic spinal lumbar luxation in a paraplegic dog without nociception
Authors: Tertuliano Marinho P. V. , Zani C. C. , De Biasi F. , Bahr Arias M. V.
Published: June 2014

An adult male crossbred dog was referred with a history of a road traffic accident that took place 1 month earlier. Neurological examination revealed paraplegia with absent nociception in the pelvic limbs. On epaxial palpation, significant curvature of the anatomical axis of the spine between the third and fourth lumbar vertebrae was observed, with the presence of a bone end almost piercing the dog's skin. Survey radiographs of the lumbar spine revealed severe dislocation between L3 and L4 vertebrae. During surgery, the spinal cord was not visible between the dislocated segments. Because of difficulties in reducing the lumbar luxation during surgery, vertebrectomy and vertebral shortening were performed. After alignment between vertebrae L3 and L5, eight cortical orthopaedic screws and bone cement were used for fixation. After 30 days, the dog started to use a wheelchair and was considered by its owner to have a good quality of life with no evidence of pain. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first case of severe luxation treated by total vertebrectomy and spine shortening in a dog. This surgery can be considered as an option in the management of severe spine luxation when the spinal cord is physically transected.
Angiotensin-(1-7) Reverses Angiogenic Dysfunction in Corpus Cavernosum by Acting on the Microvasculature and Bone Marrow–Derived Cells in Diabetes
Authors: Singh Neha , Vasam Goutham , Pawar Rahul , Jarajapu Yagna P.R.
Published: June 2014

Introduction

Angiotensin (Ang)-(1-7) is a recently identified vasoprotective heptapeptide, and it appears to activate the reparative functions of bone marrow–derived stem/progenitor cells (BMPCs).

Aim

This study evaluated the effect of Ang-(1-7) in the angiogenic function of cavernosum in type 1 diabetes (T1D) and delineated the role of BMPCs in this protective function.

Methods

T1D was induced by streptozotocin in mice, and mice with 20–24 weeks of diabetes were used for the study. Ang-(1-7) was administered subcutaneously by using osmotic pumps. Cavernosa, and BMPCs from peripheral blood and bone marrow were evaluated in different assay systems.

Main Outcome Measures

Angiogenic function was determined by endothelial tube formation in matrigel assay. Circulating BMPCs were enumerated by flow cytometry and proliferation was determined by BrdU incorporation. Cell-free supernatant of BMPCs were collected and tested for paracrine angiogenic effect. Expression of angiogenic factors in BMPCs and cavernosa were determined by real-time polymerase chain reaction.

Results

Ang-(1-7) (100 nM) stimulated angiogenesis in mouse cavernosum that was partially inhibited by Mas1 receptor antagonist, A779 (10 μM) (P < 0.05). In cavernosa of T1D, the angiogenic responses to Ang-(1-7) (P < 0.005) and VEGF (100 nM) (P < 0.03) were diminished. Ang-(1-7) treatment for 4 weeks reversed T1D-induced decrease in the VEGF-mediated angiogenesis. Ang-(1-7) treatment increased the circulating number of BMPCs and proliferation that were decreased in T1D (P < 0.02). Paracrine angiogenic function of BMPCs was reduced in diabetic BMPCs, which was reversed by Ang-(1-7). In diabetic BMPCs, SDF and angiopoietin-1 were upregulated by Ang-(1-7), and in cavernosum, VEGFR1, Tie-2, and SDF were upregulated and angiopoietin-2 was down-regulated.

Conclusions

Ang-(1-7) stimulates angiogenic function of cavernosum in diabetes via its stimulating effects on both cavernosal microvasculature and BMPCs.
DNA Testing in Neurologic Diseases
Authors: O'Brien D.P. , Leeb T.
Published: June 2014

DNA testing is available for a growing number of hereditary diseases in neurology and other specialties. In addition to guiding breeding decisions, DNA tests are important tools in the diagnosis of diseases, particularly in conditions for which clinical signs are relatively nonspecific. DNA testing also can provide valuable insight into the risk of hereditary disease when decisions about treating comorbidities are being made. Advances in technology and bioinformatics will make broad screening for potential disease‐causing mutations available soon. As DNA tests come into more common use, it is critical that clinicians understand the proper application and interpretation of these test results.
Echocardiographic Findings in 11 Cats with Acromegaly
Authors: Myers J.A. , Lunn K.F. , Bright J.M.
Published: June 2014

Background

Information regarding cardiac changes in domestic cats with acromegaly is limited.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The objective of this study was to describe the echocardiographic findings in cats with acromegaly.

Animals

Eighteen cats diagnosed with acromegaly at Colorado State University between 2008 and 2012. Of these 18 cats, 11 had echocardiography performed.

Methods

A retrospective review of medical records was made to identify cats with acromegaly that also had echocardiography performed.

Results

Of the 11 cats identified, 7 had left ventricular concentric hypertrophy, 6 had left atrial enlargement, and 7 had evidence of abnormal diastolic function. All 11 cats had evidence of structural or functional cardiac disease.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Cardiovascular abnormalities frequently are present in cats with acromegaly, and a complete cardiac evaluation should be considered in these patients.
Hepatic Hepcidin Gene Expression in Dogs with a Congenital Portosystemic Shunt
Authors: Frowde P.E. , Gow A.G. , Burton C.A. , Powell R. , Lipscomb V.J. , House A.K. , Mellanby R.J. , Tivers M.S.
Published: June 2014

Background

Microcytic anemia is common in dogs with a congenital portosystemic shunt (cPSS) and typically resolves after surgical attenuation of the anomalous vessel. However, the pathophysiology of the microcytic anemia remains poorly understood. Hepcidin has been a key role in controlling iron transport in both humans and animals and in mediating anemia of inflammatory disease in humans. The role of hepcidin in the development of microcytic anemia in dogs with acPSShas not been examined.

Hypothesis

To determine whether hepatic hepcidinmRNAexpression decreases, while red blood cell count (RBC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV) increase in dogs after surgical attenuation of acPSS.

Animals

Eighteen client‐owned dogs with confirmedcPSSundergoing surgical attenuation.

Method

Prospective study. Red blood cell count (RBC) and mean corpuscular volume (MCV), together with hepatic gene expression of hepcidin, were measured in dogs before and after partial attenuation of acPSS.

Results

There was a significant increase in both RBC (median pre 6.17 × 1012/L, median post 7.08 × 1012/L,P < .001) andMCV(median pre 61.5fl, median post 65.5fl,P = .006) after partial surgical attenuation of thecPSS. Despite the increase in both measured red blood cell parameters, hepatic gene expression of hepcidin remained unchanged.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

This study found no evidence that dysregulated production of hepcidin was associated with anemia in dogs with acPSS.
A role for migration‐linked genes and genomic islands in divergence of a songbird
Authors: Ruegg Kristen , Anderson Eric C. , Boone Jason , Pouls Jazz , Smith Thomas B.
Published: June 2014

Next‐generation sequencing has made it possible to begin asking questions about the process of divergence at the level of the genome. For example, recently, there has been a debate around the role of ‘genomic islands of divergence’ (i.e. blocks of outlier loci) in facilitating the process of speciation‐with‐gene‐flow. The Swainson's thrush, Catharus ustulatus, is a migratory songbird with two genetically distinct subspecies that differ in a number of traits known to be involved in reproductive isolation in birds (plumage coloration, song and migratory behaviour), despite contemporary gene flow along a secondary contact zone. Here, we use RAD‐PE sequencing to test emerging hypotheses about the process of divergence at the level of the genome and identify genes and gene regions involved in differentiation in this migratory songbird. Our analyses revealed distinct genomic islands on 15 of the 23 chromosomes and an accelerated rate of divergence on the Z chromosome, one of the avian sex chromosomes. Further, an analysis of loci linked to traits known to be involved in reproductive isolation in songbirds showed that genes linked to migration are significantly more differentiated than expected by chance, but that these genes lie primarily outside the genomic islands. Overall, our analysis supports the idea that genes linked to migration play an important role in divergence in migratory songbirds, but we find no compelling evidence that the observed genomic islands are facilitating adaptive divergence in migratory behaviour.
Population genomic variation reveals roles of history, adaptation and ploidy in switchgrass
Authors: Grabowski Paul P. , Morris Geoffrey P. , Casler Michael D. , Borevitz Justin O.
Published: June 2014

Geographic patterns of genetic variation are shaped by multiple evolutionary processes, including genetic drift, migration and natural selection. Switchgrass (Panicum virgatum L.) has strong genetic and adaptive differentiation despite life history characteristics that promote high levels of gene flow and can homogenize intraspecific differences, such as wind‐pollination and self‐incompatibility. To better understand how historical and contemporary factors shape variation in switchgrass, we use genotyping‐by‐sequencing to characterize switchgrass from across its range at 98 042 SNPs. Population structuring reflects biogeographic and ploidy differences within and between switchgrass ecotypes and indicates that biogeographic history, ploidy incompatibilities and differential adaptation each have important roles in shaping ecotypic differentiation in switchgrass. At one extreme, we determine that two Panicum taxa are not separate species but are actually conspecific, ecologically divergent types of switchgrass adapted to the extreme conditions of coastal sand dune habitats. Conversely, we identify natural hybrids among lowland and upland ecotypes and visualize their genome‐wide patterns of admixture. Furthermore, we determine that genetic differentiation between primarily tetraploid and octoploid lineages is not caused solely by ploidy differences. Rather, genetic diversity in primarily octoploid lineages is consistent with a history of admixture. This suggests that polyploidy in switchgrass is promoted by admixture of diverged lineages, which may be important for maintaining genetic differentiation between switchgrass ecotypes where they are sympatric. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms shaping variation in widespread species and provide a foundation for dissecting the genetic basis of adaptation in switchgrass.