bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Molecular evidence for the localization of Plasmodium falciparum immature gametocytes in bone marrow
Authors: Aguilar Ruth , Magallon-Tejada Ariel , Achtman Ariel H. , Moraleda Cinta , Joice Regina , Cisteró Pau , Li Wai Suen Connie S. N. , Nhabomba Augusto , Macete Eusebio , Mueller Ivo , Marti Matthias , Alonso Pedro L. , Menéndez Clara , Schofield Louis , Mayor Alfredo 
Published: December 2013

Key Points
In P falciparum–infected anemic children, immature gametocytes are more prevalent and abundant in bone marrow than in peripheral blood. P falciparum–infected anemic children are gametocyte carriers that can potentially contribute to malaria transmission.
DAYSLEEPER: a nuclear and vesicular-localized protein that is expressed in proliferating tissues
Authors: Knip Marijn , Hiemstra Steven , Sietsma Afke , Castelein Marina , de Pater Sylvia , Hooykaas Paul 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background

DAYSLEEPER is a domesticated transposase that is essential for development in Arabidopsis thaliana [Nature, 436:282–284, 2005]. It is derived from a hAT-superfamily transposon and contains many of the features found in the coding sequence of these elements [Nature, 436:282–284, 2005, Genetics, 158:949–957, 2001]. This work sheds light on the expression of this gene and localization of its product in protoplasts and in planta. Using deletion constructs, important domains in the protein were identified.

Results

DAYSLEEPER is predominantly expressed in meristems, developing flowers and siliques. The protein is mainly localized in the nucleus, but can also be seen in discrete foci in the cytoplasm. Using several vesicular markers, we found that these foci belong to vesicular structures of the trans-golgi network, multivesicular bodies (MVB’s) and late endosomes. The central region as well as both the N- and the C-terminus are essential to DAYSLEEPER function, since versions of DAYSLEEPER deleted for these regions are not able to complement the daysleeper phenotype. Like hAT-transposases, we show that DAYSLEEPER has a functionally conserved dimerization domain [J Biol Chem, 282:7563–7575, 2007].

Conclusions
DAYSLEEPER has retained the global structure of hAT transposases and it seems that most of these conserved features are essential to DAYSLEEPER’s cellular function. Although structurally similar, DAYSLEEPER seems to have broadened its range of action beyond the nucleus in comparison to transposases.
Association between polymorphisms in ERCC2 gene and oral cancer risk: evidence from a meta-analysis
Authors: Zhang Enjiao , Cui Zhigang , Xu Zhongfei , Duan Weiyi , Huang Shaohui , Tan Xuexin , Yin Zhihua , Sun Changfu , Lu Li 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background

Excision repair cross-complementing group 2 (ERCC2) plays important roles in the repair of DNA damage and adducts. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of ERCC2 gene are suspected to influence the risks of oral cancer. We performed a meta-analysis to systematically summarize the possible association of ERCC2 rs1799793 and rs13181 polymorphisms with oral cancer risks.

Methods
We retrieved the relevant articles from PubMed and Embase databases. Studies were selected using specific criteria. ORs and 95% CIs were calculated to assess the association. All analyses were performed using the Stata software.

Results
Six studies were included in this meta-analysis. There were no significant associations between ERCC2 rs1799793 and rs13181 polymorphism with overall oral cancer risk. In the stratified analysis by ethnicity, no significant associations were found. In the stratified analysis by tumor type, the risk of oral leukoplakia was significant associated with rs13181 polymorphism (AC vs. AA: OR = 1.28, 95% CI = 1.01-1.62, P = 0.546 for heterogeneity, I2 = 0.0%; CC vs. AA: OR = 1.94, 95% CI = 0.99-3.79, P = 0.057 for heterogeneity, I2 = 60.1%; dominant model AC + CC vs. AA: OR = 1.35, 95% CI = 1.08–1.69, P = 0.303 for heterogeneity, I2 = 17.6%; allele C vs. A: OR = 1.38, 95% CI = 1.04–1.82. P = 0.043 for heterogeneity, I2 = 56.4%).

Conclusion
Rs13181 in ERCC2 gene might be associated with oral leukoplakia risk.
Attention deficit/hyperactivity disorders with co-existing substance use disorder is characterized by early antisocial behaviour and poor cognitive skills
Authors: Bihlar Muld Berit , Jokinen Jussi , Bölte Sven , Hirvikoski Tatja 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is associated with an increased risk of co-existing substance abuse. The Swedish legislation on compulsory healthcare can be applied to persons with severe substance abuse who can be treated involuntarily during a period of six months. This context enables a reliable clinical assessment of ADHD in individuals with severe substance use disorder (SUD).

Methods
In the context of compulsory care for individuals with severe SUD, male patients were assessed for ADHD, co-morbid psychiatric symptoms, psychosocial background, treatment history, and cognition. The data from the ADHD/SUD group (n = 60) was compared with data from (1) a group of individuals with severe substance abuse without known ADHD (SUD group, n = 120), as well as (2) a group with ADHD from an outpatient psychiatric clinic (ADHD/Psych group, n = 107).

Results
Compared to the general SUD group in compulsory care, the ADHD/SUD group had already been significantly more often in compulsory care during childhood or adolescence, as well as imprisoned more often as adults. The most common preferred abused substance in the ADHD/SUD group was stimulant drugs, while alcohol and benzodiazepine abuse was more usual in the general SUD group. Compared to the ADHD/Psych group, the ADHD/SUD group reported more ADHD symptoms during childhood and performed poorer on all tests of general intellectual ability and executive functions.

Conclusions
The clinical characteristics of the ADHD/SUD group differed from those of both the SUD group and the ADHD/Psych group in several respects, indicating that ADHD in combination with SUD is a particularly disabling condition. The combination of severe substance abuse, poor general cognitive ability, severe psychosocial problems, including indications of antisocial behaviour, and other co-existing psychiatric conditions should be considered in treatment planning for adults with ADHD and SUD.
Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma with concomitant sarcomatoid transformation and osseous metaplasia: a case report
Authors: Tanaka Yoshimi , Koie Takuya , Hatakeyama Shingo , Hashimoto Yasuhiro , Ohyama Chikara 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma is the third most common form of adult renal epithelial neoplasm. A sarcomatoid component occurs in approximately 8% of all chromophobe renal cell carcinoma cases, while metaplastic bone formation is extremely rare.

Case presentation
An abdominal computed tomography scan revealed a hypovascular tumor with focal calcification, measuring 2.5 × 2.3 cm, in the upper pole of the right kidney. The tumor was clinically diagnosed as a right renal cell carcinoma that showed signs of calcification, and a laparoscopic right radical nephrectomy was performed. The cut surface of the tumor was beige in color and indicated that the tumor was an extensively ossified mass. Histological analysis revealed three distinct morphological components of the tumor. The chromophobe renal cell carcinoma consisted of compact epithelial cells arranged in a nested pattern, and these were mixed with extensive areas of sarcomatoid spindle cells with marked nuclear pleomorphism and brisk mitotic activity. The tumor also contained multiple foci of metaplastic ossification.

Conclusion
Chromophobe renal cell carcinoma with concomitant osseous metaplasia and sarcomatoid transformation is a very rare occurrence.
miR-133b, a muscle-specific microRNA, is a novel prognostic marker that participates in the progression of human colorectal cancer via regulation of CXCR4 expression
Authors: Duan Fang-Ting , Qian Feng , Fang Ke , Lin Kang-Yu , Wang Wen-Tao , Chen Yue-Qin 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
MicroRNA-133b (miR-133b), which is a muscle-specific microRNA, has been reported to be downregulated in human colorectal carcinoma (CRC) when compared to adjacent non-tumor tissue. However, its diagnostic value and role in CRC have yet to be described. CXC chemokine receptor-4 (CXCR4), which participates in multiple cell processes such as cell invasion-related signaling pathways, was predicted to be a potential target of miR-133b. The aim of this study was to investigate the associations and functions of miR-133b and CXCR4 in CRC initiation and invasion.

Methods
Mature miR-133b and CXCR4 expression levels were detected in 31 tumor samples and their adjacent, non-tumor tissues from patients with CRC, as well as in 6 CRC cell lines, using real-time quantitative RT-PCR (qRT-PCR). Luciferase reporter assays and Western blots were used to validate CXCR4 as a putative target gene of miR-133b. Regulation of CXCR4 expression by miR-133b was assessed using qRT-PCR and Western blot analysis, and the effects of exogenous miR-133b and CXCR4 on cell invasion and migration were evaluated in vitro using the SW-480 and SW-620 CRC cell lines.

Results
A significant downregulation of miR-133b was observed in 93.55% of CRC tissues, and the expression of miR-133b was much lower in metastatic tumors (stage C and D, stratified by the Modified Dukes Staging System) than in primary tumors (stage A and B). In contrast, CXCR4 protein expression significantly increased in 52.63% of CRC samples, and increased CXCR4 expression in CRC was associated with advanced tumor stage. CXCR4 was shown to be a direct target of miR-133b by luciferase reporter assays, and transfection of miR-133b mimics inhibited invasion and stimulated apoptosis of SW-480 and SW-620 CRC cells.

Conclusions
Our study demonstrated that downregulated miR-133b contributed to increased cell invasion and migration in CRC by negatively regulating CXCR4. These findings may be significant for the development of therapy target for CRC.
Facile one-pot synthesis of polytypic CuGaS2 nanoplates
Authors: Liu Zhongping , Hao Qiaoyan , Tang Rui , Wang Linlin , Tang Kaibin 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
CuGaS2 (CGS) nanoplates were successfully synthesized by one-pot thermolysis of a mixture solution of CuCl, GaCl3, and 1-dodecanethiol in noncoordinating solvent 1-octadecene. Their morphology, crystalline phase, and composition were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), high-resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), powder X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), respectively. Crystalline structure analysis showed that the as-prepared CGS nanoplates were polytypic, in which the wurtzite phase was interfaced with zincblende domains. The growth process of CGS nanoplates was investigated. It was found that copper sulfide nanoplates were firstly formed and then the as-formed copper sulfide nanoplates gradually transformed to CGS nanoplates with proceeding of the reaction. The optical absorption of the as-synthesized CGS nanoplates was also measured and the direct optical bandgap was determined to be 2.24 eV.
Interactions of peptide triazole thiols with Env gp120 induce irreversible breakdown and inactivation of HIV-1 virions
Authors: Bastian Arangassery Rosemary , Contarino Mark , Bailey Lauren D , Aneja Rachna , Moreira Diogo Rodrigo Magalhaes , Freedman Kevin , McFadden Karyn , Duffy Caitlin , Emileh Ali , Leslie George , Jacobson Jeffrey M , Hoxie James A , Chaiken Irwin 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
We examined the underlying mechanism of action of the peptide triazole thiol, KR13 that has been shown previously to specifically bind gp120, block cell receptor site interactions and potently inhibit HIV-1 infectivity.

Results
KR13, the sulfhydryl blocked KR13b and its parent non-sulfhydryl peptide triazole, HNG156, induced gp120 shedding but only KR13 induced p24 capsid protein release. The resulting virion post virolysis had an altered morphology, contained no gp120, but retained gp41 that bound to neutralizing gp41 antibodies. Remarkably, HIV-1 p24 release by KR13 was inhibited by enfuvirtide, which blocks formation of the gp41 6-helix bundle during membrane fusion, while no inhibition of p24 release occurred for enfuvirtide-resistant virus. KR13 thus appears to induce structural changes in gp41 normally associated with membrane fusion and cell entry. The HIV-1 p24 release induced by KR13 was observed in several clades of HIV-1 as well as in fully infectious HIV-1 virions.

Conclusions
The antiviral activity of KR13 and its ability to inactivate virions prior to target cell engagement suggest that peptide triazole thiols could be highly effective in inhibiting HIV transmission across mucosal barriers and provide a novel probe to understand biochemical signals within envelope that are involved in membrane fusion.
Mycoplasma conjunctivae in domestic small ruminants from high mountain habitats in Northern Spain
Authors: Fernández-Aguilar Xavier , Cabezón Óscar , Marco Ignasi , Mentaberre Gregorio , Frey Joachim , Lavín Santiago , López-Olvera Jorge R 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
Infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) is a clinical condition affecting eyes of domestic and wild Caprinae worldwide, and Mycoplasma conjunctivae is considered the primary causative agent of IKC in sheep, goats and wild Caprinae. Domestic ruminants from high mountain habitats share grazing areas with wild mountain ungulates, such as chamois (Rupicapra spp.), Alpine ibex (Capra ibex) and European mouflon (Ovis aries musimon), and domestic sheep seem to act as M. conjunctivae reservoir. In this study, the presence of M. conjunctivae in domestic sheep and goats from the two main mountain ranges of Northern Spain, the Pyrenees and the Cantabrian Mountains, has been investigated.

Results
Eye swabs were obtained from 439 domestic small ruminants selected from flocks that seasonally graze in alpine meadows during three consecutive years (2011-2012-2013). Seventy-nine out of the 378 domestic sheep (20.9%) tested positive to a M. conjunctivae specific real time-PCR (rt-PCR) in at least one eye, whereas all the 61 sampled domestic goats were negative. Statistically significant higher prevalence and higher proportion of infected flocks (P < 0.001) was observed in the Pyrenees (25.7%; 12 flocks out of 13), where M. conjunctivae is widespread and probably endemic in domestic sheep, than in the Cantabrian Mountains (7.8%; one flock out of six). Twenty-five sheep (three from the Pyrenees and 22 from the Cantabrian Mountains) which showed clinical signs consistent with infectious keratoconjunctivitis (IKC) were negative by rt-PCR. In contrast, 62 out of the 71 (87.3%) M. conjunctivae-positive sheep from the Pyrenees and the eight positive sheep from the Cantabrian Mountains were asymptomatic.

Conclusions
This study provides rt-PCR-based evidences of M. conjunctivae maintenance in domestic sheep, as well as a relationship between prevalence in domestic sheep and previously reported M. conjunctivae and IKC in wild ruminants. Domestic goats do not seem to play an important role in the epidemiology of M. conjunctivae in alpine habitats from Northern Spain.
Association between haptoglobin and IgM levels and the clinical progression of caseous lymphadenitis in sheep
Authors: Bastos Bruno L , Loureiro Dan , Raynal José T , Guedes Maria T , Vale Vera Lúcia Costa , Moura-Costa Lilia F , Guimarães José E , Azevedo Vasco , Portela Ricardo W , Meyer Roberto 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundSheep caseous lymphadenitis (CLA), caused byCorynebacterium pseudotuberculosis(Cp), is associated with direct economic losses and presents significant zoonotic potential. Despite the importance of the disease, a satisfactory vaccine model has not been developed. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the association between haptoglobin (Hp) and IgM levels and the clinical progression of CLA in primarily infected sheep and in sheep immunized with Cp- secreted antigens adjuvanted withQuillaja saponariasaponins. These animals were kept with CLA-positive sheep to simulate natural exposure that occurs in field conditions. During the experiment, the Hp and IgM levels were monitored for 21 days, and the development of internal CLA lesions was investigated through necropsies on day182 post-immunization.ResultsPrimarily infected sheep in Group 2 (inoculated with 2x105Cp virulent strain) had higher Hp values between the first and ninth days post inoculation (PI) than sheep in Group 1 (control; P < 0.05). Immunized animals in Group 3 had significantly higher Hp values between the third and seventh days PI, compared with the control group (P < 0.01). Binary logistic regression (BLR) analysis of primarily infected sheep indicated an association between Hp concentration and CLA clinical progression: animals with high Hp values had 99.9% less risk of having CLA abscesses than animals with low Hp levels (Odds ratio = 0.001, P < 0.05). Both experimental groups had significantly higher IgM titers than the control group around the ninth and eleventh days PI (P < 0.05). The BLR analysis for immunized sheep indicated an association between IgM levels and clinical progression: sheep with high IgM titers had 100.0% less risk of having CLA abscesses than animals with low IgM levels (Odds ratio = 0.000, P < 0.05).ConclusionsResistance toC. pseudotuberculosisinfection is supported by the early acute phase response, in which up-regulation of Hp and IgM were predictive of a lower risk of CLA lesion development. Because the immunogen used in this study induced a high production of both Hp and IgM,Q. saponariasaponin should be considered a promising candidate in vaccine formulations against sheep CLA.
A new radiographic view of the hindfoot
Authors: Ikoma Kazuya , Noguchi Masahiko , Nagasawa Koji , Maki Masahiro , Kido Masamitsu , Hara Yusuke , Kubo Toshikazu 
Published: December 2013

AbstractBackgroundA new radiographic view was proposed to evaluate the coronal plane alignment of the hindfoot under weightbearing conditions.MethodsWe studied 46 feet of individuals with normal appearing asymptomatic feet. On the antero‐posterior roentgenogram using this new method, the line from the top of the sustentaculum tali to the lateral‐inferior end of the posterior articular surface of the talus was obtained as the standard line showing varus or valgus of the calcaneus. We defined the angle between the longitudinal axis of the tibia and the standard line as described above as Varus‐Valgus angle (V‐V angle).ResultsThe mean (±SD) V‐V angle of the 46 feet studied was 76.4 (±3.6) degrees.ConclusionThe findings from this study indicate that it is possible to estimate the alignment of the hindfoot quantitatively by comparing individuals to the mean V‐V angle that we calculated in our sample, which was 76.4 degrees.
Scleral buckle infections: microbiological spectrum and antimicrobial susceptibility
Authors: Chhablani Jay , Nayak Sameera , Jindal Animesh , Motukupally Swapna R , Mathai Annie , Jalali Subhadra , Pappuru Rajiv Reddy , Sharma Savitri , Das Taraprasad , Flynn Harry W , Pathengay Avinash 
Published: December 2013

Abstract

Background
The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the microbiological spectrum and antimicrobial susceptibility in patients with scleral buckle infection. Medical records of all the patients diagnosed as buckle infection at L. V. Prasad Eye Institute between July 1992 and June 2012 were reviewed in this non-comparative, consecutive, retrospective case series.

Findings
A total of 132 eyes of 132 patients underwent buckle explantation for buckle infection during the study period. The incidence of buckle infection at our institute during the study period was 0.2% (31 out of 15,022). A total of 124 isolates were identified from 102 positive cultures. The most common etiological agent isolated was Staphylococcus epidermidis (27/124, 21.77%) followed by Mycobacterium sp. (20/124, 16.13%) and Corynebacterium sp. (13/124, 10.48%). The most common gram negative bacilli identified was Pseudomonas aeruginosa (9/124, 7.26%). The median interval between scleral buckling surgery and onset of symptoms of local infection was 30 days. All eyes underwent buckle explantation and median time interval between primary SB surgery and explantation was 13 months. Recurrent retinal detachment was observed in two cases at 7 and 48 months, respectively, after buckle explantation. Gram positive, gram negative, and acid-fast organisms isolated from 2003 to 2012 were most commonly susceptible to vancomycin (100%), ciprofloxacin (100%), and amikacin (89%). Susceptibility to ciprofloxacin during the same time period was observed in 75% (15/20), 100% (13/13), and 87% (7/8) of gram positive, gram negative, and acid-fast isolates, respectively.

Conclusion
Scleral buckle infection is relatively rare and has a delayed clinical presentation. It is most commonly caused by gram positive cocci. Based on the current antimicrobial susceptibility, ciprofloxacin can be used as empirical therapy in the management of scleral buckle infections.
Cartilage oligomeric matrix protein-induced complement activation in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Otteby Kaisa E , Holmquist Emelie , Saxne Tore , Heinegård Dick , Hesselstrand Roger , Blom Anna M 
Published: December 2013

Abstract
Introduction
Complexes between cartilage oligomeric matrix protein (COMP) and the complement activation product C3b have been found in the circulation of patients with rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus. In systemic sclerosis (SSc) COMP expression in the skin is upregulated both in lesional and non-lesional skin, which is also reflected in an increased amount of circulating COMP. We investigated the presence of COMP-C3b complexes in serum and skin biopsies of patients with SSc.

Methods
The presence of COMP and COMP-C3b complexes in the serum of 80 patients with limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc, n = 40) and diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc, n = 40) and 97 healthy controls was measured by ELISA and correlated to different clinical parameters. Samples were collected both at baseline and after three to five years to assess longitudinal changes in COMP-C3b complex levels. Furthermore, skin biopsies from seven patients with dcSSc and three healthy controls were analyzed for expression of COMP and deposition of C3b and IgG.

Results
Serum levels of COMP-C3b were found to be elevated in both dcSSc and lcSSc compared to healthy controls and decreased at the second measurement in patients on immunosuppressive therapy. No co-localization of COMP and C3b was found in the skin biopsies, indicating that the COMP-C3b complexes are formed upon release of COMP into the circulation.

Conclusion
COMP-C3b complexes are found in the serum of patients with SSc. The lack of co-localization between COMP and C3b in the skin suggests that COMP does not drive complement activation in the skin in SSc.