bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Identification of aphids of Aphis frangulae‐group living on Lamiaceae species through DNA barcode
Authors: Massimino Cocuzza Giuseppe E. , Cavalieri Vincenzo 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe genus Aphis frangulae‐group living on Lamiaceae includes several postulate species, which are morphologically indistinguishable. As a consequence, identification is possible only on the basis of the host plant or life cycle. This study tested the utility of a fragment (614 bp) of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase 1 (COI) with the aim of identifying the species and/or to confirm the previous classification based on host plant and data reported in the literature. Although the general nucleotide variability found was rather low, the analysis enabled the separation and identification of all the specimens collected. In some cases, the lack of nucleotide variability among postulated taxa indicates the limits of identification based on biological traits. Consequently, based on the molecular analysis, the postulate species A. symphyti, A. stachydis and A. lamiorum should be regarded as synonymous of A. frangulae.
Validation of the consensus methodology algorithm for the classification of systemic necrotizing vasculitis in Indian patients
Authors: Sharma Aman , Mittal Tarun , Rajan Roopa , Rathi Manish , Nada Ritambhra , Minz Ranjana W. , Joshi Kusum , Sakhuja Vinay , Singh Surjit 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAimMany patients with systemic necrotizing vasculitis (SNV) satisfy classification criteria of different disease entities when different classification systems are used. A new classification algorithm has been proposed recently by using the American College of Rheumatology criteria, Chapel Hill Consensus Criteria (CHCC) and Sorensen surrogate markers for a more uniform classification of patients suffering from these rare disorders.MethodsWe applied this algorithm to patients diagnosed as having systemic vasculitis between 2007 and 2011. We also analyzed the data using this algorithm by incorporating the recently proposed revised CHCC nomenclature of vasculitis in place of the older criteria.ResultsSeventy‐nine patients with SNV were studied. One patient diagnosed as microscopic polyangiitis (MPA) had to be excluded from analysis as she had previously been diagnosed as having Behcet's disease. All patients of eosinophilic granulomatosis with polyangiitis (EGPA), granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) and MPA were reclassified to the same diagnostic subcategory after application of the algorithm. Three (16.7%) of 18 polyarteritis nodosa patients were unclassifiable after application of the consensus algorithm while two (11.1%) were reclassified as MPA. All previously unclassifiable patients could be classified either as MPA or GPA after application of the new algorithm. There was no difference in the results when the CHCC 2012 nomenclature was used instead of the older CHCC in the consensus algorithm.ConclusionThe new classification algorithm is a reliable method for classification of SNV for epidemiological purposes in our population.
Salt sensitivity of renin secretion, glomerular filtration rate and blood pressure in conscious Sprague‐Dawley rats
Authors: Isaksson G. L. , Stubbe J. , Lyngs Hansen P. , Jensen B. L. , Bie P. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAimWe hypothesized that in normal rats in metabolic steady state, (i) the plasma renin concentration (PRC) is log‐linearly related to Na+ intake (NaI), (ii) the concurrent changes in mean arterial pressure (MABP) and glomerular filtration rate (GFR) are negligible and (iii) the function PRC = f(NaI) is altered by β1‐adrenoceptor blockade (metoprolol) and surgical renal denervation (DNX).MethodsIn catheterized, conscious rats on low‐Na+ diet (0.004% Na+), NaI was increased by up to 120‐fold, in four 3‐day steps, by intravenous saline infusion. MABP was recorded continuously, PRC measured in arterial blood, and GFR estimated by inulin clearance.ResultsSteady states were achieved within 3 days. PRC [mIU L−1] was log‐linearly related to NaI [mmol kg−1 day−1]: PRC = −9.9 log (NaI) + 22. Set point (22 mIU L−1 at NaI = 1) and slope (9.9 mIU per decade NaI) were independent of metoprolol administration and DNX. MABP and GFR were markedly salt‐sensitive: MABP [mmHg] = 4.9 log (NaI) + 99 (P < 0.01), and GFR [mL min−1] = 1.4 log (NaI) + 8.3 (P < 0.01). MABP increased similarly (approx. 10%, P < 0.001) irrespective of pre‐treatment. Metoprolol, but not DNX, reduced MABP, HR, and GFR (all P < 0.01). Salt sensitivity of GFR was not observed in DNX rats.ConclusionLog‐linear relations to sodium intake exist not only for PRC, but also for MABP and GFR, which per 10‐fold increase in sodium intake rose by 5 mmHg and 1.4 mL min−1 respectively. Steady‐state levels of PRC appear independent of renal nerves. MABP and GFR seem markedly salt sensitive in normal rats.
Single whole‐leg compression ultrasound for exclusion of deep vein thrombosis in symptomatic ambulatory patients: a prospective observational cohort study
Authors: Horner Daniel , Hogg Kerstin , Body Richard , Jones Steve , Nash Michael J. , Mackway‐Jones Kevin 
Published: November 2013

SummaryInternational guidance has recently recommended serial proximal compression ultrasound (CUS) as first line imaging for suspected deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Single whole‐leg CUS is a routine alternative diagnostic strategy that can reduce repeated attendances and identify alternative pathology. We conducted a prospective observational cohort study. Consecutive ambulatory, adult patients with suspected DVT and negative or inconclusive whole‐leg CUS had anticoagulation withheld and were followed for 3 months. The primary outcome was a predefined clinically relevant adverse event rate. Secondary outcomes included technical failure, alternative diagnoses and all cause mortality. 212 patients agreed to participate and completed follow up. One patient was subsequently diagnosed with an isolated distal DVT. The adverse event rate was thus 1/212, 0·47% (95% confidence interval [CI] 0·08–2·62). Technical imaging failure occurred in 11·3% of cases (95% CI 7·7–16·3). Several potential predictors of an inconclusive result were identified on multivariate analysis. 150 (70·8%) patients were provided with a documented alternative diagnosis. Patients who have anticoagulation withheld following a negative or inconclusive whole‐leg CUS for suspected DVT have a low rate of adverse events. Technical failure remains an issue: several factors were significantly associated with inconclusive results and may warrant an alternative diagnostic approach.
Antitumor effects of bevacizumab in a microenvironment‐dependent human adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma mouse model
Authors: Mori Fumiko , Ishida Takashi , Ito Asahi , Sato Fumihiko , Masaki Ayako , Narita Tomoko , Suzuki Susumu , Yamada Tomiko , Takino Hisashi , Ri Masaki , Kusumoto Shigeru , Komatsu Hirokazu , Hishizawa Masakatsu , Imada Kazunori , Takaori‐Kondo Akifumi , Niimi Akio , Ueda Ryuzo , Inagaki Hiroshi , Iida Shinsuke 
Published: November 2013

AbstractObjectiveThe objective of this study was to evaluate the therapeutic potential of bevacizumab with or without systemic chemotherapy for adult T‐cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATL) and clarify the significance of angiogenesis for ATL pathogenesis.MethodsNOD/Shi‐scid, IL‐2Rγnull (NOG) mice were used as recipients of tumor cells from a patient with ATL, which engraft and proliferate in a microenvironment‐dependent manner. The ATL cells could be serially transplanted in NOG mice, but could not be maintained in in vitro cultures.ResultsInjection of bevacizumab alone significantly increased necrosis and decreased vascularization in the tumor tissue. Levels of human soluble interleukin two receptor in the serum (reflecting the ATL tumor burden) of bevacizumab‐treated mice were significantly lower than in untreated mice. Although bevacizumab monotherapy showed these clear anti‐angiogenesis effects, it did not prolong survival. In contrast, injection of bevacizumab together with cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone (CHOP) led to a significant prolongation of survival of the ATL mice relative to CHOP alone.ConclusionsThis is the first report to evaluate the efficacy of bevacizumab for ATL in a tumor microenvironment‐dependent model. Bevacizumab therapy combined with chemotherapy could be a valuable treatment strategy for that subgroup of ATL probably depending to a large extent on angiogenesis via vascular endothelial growth factor.
The contribution of intra‐ and interspecific tolerance variability to biodiversity changes along toxicity gradients
Authors: De Laender Frederik , Melian Carlos J. , Bindler Richard , Van den Brink Paul J. , Daam Michiel , Roussel Helene , Juselius Jonas , Verschuren Dirk , Janssen Colin R. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThe worldwide distribution of toxicants is an important yet understudied driver of biodiversity, and the mechanisms relating toxicity to diversity have not been adequately explored. Here, we present a community model integrating demography, dispersal and toxicant‐induced effects on reproduction driven by intraspecific and interspecific variability in toxicity tolerance. We compare model predictions to 458 species abundance distributions (SADs) observed along concentration gradients of toxicants to show that the best predictions occur when intraspecific variability is five and ten times higher than interspecific variability. At high concentrations, lower settings of intraspecific variability resulted in predictions of community extinction that were not supported by the observed SADs. Subtle but significant species losses at low concentrations were predicted only when intraspecific variability dominated over interspecific variability. Our results propose intraspecific variability as a key driver for biodiversity sustenance in ecosystems challenged by environmental change.
Melanoma inhibitory activity in melanoma diagnostics and therapy – a small protein is looming large
Authors: Riechers Alexander , Bosserhoff Anja Katrin 
Published: November 2013

AbstractMalignant melanoma is a highly aggressive cancer with a very poor prognosis after the onset of metastasis. We have previously demonstrated that the protein melanoma inhibitory activity (MIA) is involved in the metastasis of and immunosuppression in malignant melanoma. Recently, we further established MIA as a therapeutic target to inhibit metastatic spread in malignant melanoma. We could show that an inhibition of MIA by a synthetic peptide decreased both the number of metastases as well as immunosuppression in a murine model of malignant melanoma. To control recurrence after surgical resection of a primary lesion, it is paramount to have diagnostic tools available that can detect a relapse due to the strong metastatic potential of melanoma. This follow‐up is maintained with periodic re‐examinations. Due to high cost and the associated radiation exposure, radiology examinations are avoided if possible. The analysis of prognostic markers in patient serum is therefore attractive. In this review, we focus on the quantitative analysis of the MIA protein as a prognostic tool because it has proven to be a useful serum marker for documenting disease progression of malignant melanoma. The MIA quantification assay itself is readily performed using an ELISA kit and common laboratory equipment. Because analysing MIA serum levels in combination with other established markers such as S100B improves their prognostic value, we feel that the quantification of MIA in the serum, among other markers, should be performed as a general standard of care in patients at risk of developing metastatic melanoma.
Improved asymmetry prediction for short interfering RNAs
Authors: Malefyt Amanda P. , Wu Ming , Vocelle Daniel B. , Kappes Sean J. , Lindeman Stephen D. , Chan Christina , Walton S. Patrick 
Published: November 2013

In the development of RNA interference therapeutics, merely selecting short interfering RNA (siRNA) sequences that are complementary to the mRNA target does not guarantee target silencing. Current algorithms for selecting siRNAs rely on many parameters, one of which is asymmetry, often predicted through calculation of the relative thermodynamic stabilities of the two ends of the siRNA. However, we have previously shown that highly active siRNA sequences are likely to have particular nucleotides at each 5′‐end, independently of their thermodynamic asymmetry. Here, we describe an algorithm for predicting highly active siRNA sequences based only on these two asymmetry parameters. The algorithm uses end‐sequence nucleotide preferences and predicted thermodynamic stabilities, each weighted on the basis of training data from the literature, to rank the probability that an siRNA sequence will have high or low activity. The algorithm successfully predicts weakly and highly active sequences for enhanced green fluorescent protein and protein kinase R. Use of these two parameters in combination improves the prediction of siRNA activity over current approaches for predicting asymmetry. Going forward, we anticipate that this approach to siRNA asymmetry prediction will be incorporated into the next generation of siRNA selection algorithms.
Combined effect of elevated UVB, elevated temperature and fertilization on growth, needle structure and phytochemistry of young Norway spruce (Picea abies) seedlings
Authors: Virjamo Virpi , Sutinen Sirkka , Julkunen‐Tiitto Riitta 
Published: November 2013

AbstractSimultaneously with warming climate, other climatic and environmental factors are also changing. Here, we investigated for the first time the effects of elevated temperature, increased ultraviolet‐B (UVB) radiation, fertilization and all combinations of these on the growth, secondary chemistry and needle structure of 1‐year‐old Norway spruce (Picea abies (L.) Karst.) seedlings in an outdoor experiment. After one growing season, elevated temperature increased root : shoot ratio and concentrations of needle piperidine alkaloids, while concentrations of needle catechins and acetophenones and bark flavonoids decreased compared with ambient temperature seedlings. UVB‐radiation increased concentrations of bark condensed tannins, while fertilization increased total biomass and concentrations of needle catechins. In addition to the main effects, concentrations of some individual phenolic compounds showed UV × temperature or UV × temperature × fertilization interactions, and fertilization modified temperature response on root : shoot ratio. All the treatments described here affected the defence chemistry profiles of the seedlings, which may imply some changes in plant‐herbivore interactions in connection with changing climate. The interactions between treatments indicate a need for further experiments involving several simultaneously affecting environmental changes.
Land surface skin temperature captures thermal environments of C3 and C4 grasses
Authors: Still Christopher J. , Pau Stephanie , Edwards Erika J. 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAimNumerous studies have documented ecological sorting of C3 and C4 grasses along air temperature gradients. However, phylogenetically structured analyses suggest that closely related C3 and C4 grasses (in the same PACMAD clade: Panicoideae, Arundinoideae, Chloridoideae, Micrairoideae, Aristidoideae and Danthonioideae) occur in environments with similar air temperature, challenging our understanding of how the photosynthetic pathway influences grass biogeography. To better understand thermal differences between C3 and C4 grass lineages, we analysed the surface radiative temperature as an alternative measure that is more closely aligned with plant microclimate.LocationHawaiian Islands, USA.MethodsWe used the MODIS land surface temperature (LST) product, a satellite‐based measurement of radiative temperature. We compared LST with mean annual air temperature (MAT) for locations where C3 and C4 grass species were collected. We also utilized other satellite products, like MODIS tree cover, as a proxy for relative habitat openness where these grasses occur.ResultsComparisons of C3 lineages [in BEP (Bambusoideae, Ehrhartoideae and Pooideae) and PACMAD clades] and C4 lineages (PACMAD clade only) illustrate the differing thermal environments for each group. C4 taxa are found in the environments with the highest MAT, followed by C3 PACMAD species. By contrast, C3 PACMAD species are found in the environments with the coolest LST, and the LST values for C3 BEP species are substantially higher than their MAT values. The difference in LST between C3 and C4 PACMADs is larger than the difference in MAT between these groups.Main conclusionsThough LST has been used infrequently in ecology and biogeography, it is intimately related to water and energy balance and ecosystem structure, and should more accurately capture plant temperatures and microclimates than MAT. Our results provide support for a pronounced thermal difference in the environments of closely related C3 and C4 grass taxa, and show that C3 PACMADs occur in the coolest and least variable thermal environments, probably due to the greater tree cover of these habitats.
The Rise (and Frequent Fall) of Evangelical Politicians: Organization, Theology, and Church Politics
Authors: Reich Gary , dos Santos Pedro 
Published: November 2013

Abstract
Latin American evangelicals have become a common presence in legislative politics. Brazil exemplifies the potential clout of evangelical legislators and a troubling tendency toward political corruption. This article explains the quality of evangelical interest representation by focusing on church organization and theology, arguing that evangelicals approach electoral politics via three different modes: rejection; participation as individual, politically engaged believers; and engagement as church corporate project. While individual participation is unrelated to political corruption, the corporate model fosters machine politics, characterized in Brazil by resource-based politics, narrow voter bases, and frequent party switching. We link these characteristics to evangelical involvement in two corruption scandals that occurred during the administration of President Lula da Silva. The analysis shows the central role of evangelical organization and theology in shaping interest representation and suggests future duplication of the church-as-political-machine model, particularly where the “Prosperity Theology” variant of pentecostalism is strong.
Circulating microRNAs as mirrors of acute coronary syndromes: MiRacle or quagMire?
Authors: Li Jin , Xu Jiahong , Cheng Yan , Wang Fei , Song Yang , Xiao Junjie 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAcute coronary syndrome (ACS), a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, is among the most serious cardiovascular diseases. Exploring novel approaches, which can complement and improve current strategies for ACS, is continuous. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are a novel class of small, short non‐coding RNA that post‐transcriptionally regulate genes. The tissue‐ or cell‐specific distribution features of miRNAs and its merit of stably existing in serum and plasma make them attractive biomarkers for ACS. An early and accurate diagnosis is the pre‐requisite to facilitate rapid decision making and treatment and therefore improve outcome in ACS patients. This review highlights and summarizes recent studies using circulating miRNAs as novel biomarkers for ACS including its role in diagnosis, prediction, prognosis and reaction to therapy. In addition, we also discuss the potential function of miRNAs as extracellular communicators in cell‐to‐cell communication. Large multicentre studies are highly needed to pave the road for using circulating miRNAs as biomarkers for ACS from the bench to the bedside. Considering the advantageous properties and the continuously increasing number of studies, circulating miRNAs definitely have the potential to be reasonable diagnostic tools once their infancy has passed.
Telocytes in human oesophagus
Authors: Chen Xiaoke , Zheng Yonghua , Manole Catalin G. , Wang Xiangdong , Wang Qun 
Published: November 2013

AbstractTelocytes (TCs), a new type of interstitial cells, were identified in many different organs and tissues of mammalians and humans. In this study, we show the presence, in human oesophagus, of cells having the typical features of TCs in lamina propria of the mucosa, as well as in muscular layers. We used transmission electron microscopy (TEM), immunohistochemistry (IHC) and primary cell culture. Human oesophageal TCs present a small cell body with 2–3 very long Telopodes (Tps). Tps consist of an alternation of thin segments (podomers) and thick segments (podoms) and have a labyrinthine spatial arrangement. Tps establish close contacts (‘stromal synapses’) with other neighbouring cells (e.g. lymphocytes, macrophages). The ELISA testing of the supernatant of primary culture of TCs indicated that the concentrations of VEGF and EGF increased progressively. In conclusion, our study shows the existence of typical TCs at the level of oesophagus (mucosa, submucosa and muscular layer) and suggests their possible role in tissue repair.
Efficacy and safety of nateglinide plus vildagliptin combination therapy compared with switching to vildagliptin in type 2 diabetes patients inadequately controlled with nateglinide
Authors: Kudo‐Fujimaki Kyoko , Hirose Takahisa , Yoshihara Tomoaki , Sato Fumihiko , Someya Yuki , Ohmura Chie , Kanazawa Akio , Fujitani Yoshio , Watada Hirotaka 
Published: November 2013

AbstractAims/IntroductionTo investigate the efficacy and safety of vildagliptin, a potent dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor, as add‐on to nateglinide, compared with switching to vildagliptin in Japanese type 2 diabetes patients poorly controlled with nateglinide.Materials and MethodsA total of 40 patients inadequately controlled with nateglinide were randomized to the switching group (n = 20, switching from nateglinide to vildagliptin) or combination group (n = 20, nateglinide plus vildagliptin). A meal tolerance test was carried out at weeks 0 and 24.ResultsThe mean changes in glycated hemoglobin from baseline to week 24 were −1.2 ± 0.3% and −0.3 ± 0.5% in patients of the combination and switching groups, respectively, and the difference between the groups was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The mean changes in area under the curve of glucose from 0 to 180 min (AUC0–180 min) from baseline to week 24 was −361 ± 271.3 mmol·min/L in patients of the combination group compared with 141 ± 241.9 mmol·min/L in those of the switching group (P < 0.001). The incidence of hypoglycemic events was low (three in the combination group), and none of the patients developed severe hypoglycemia. Although the addition of vildagliptin to nateglinide did not significantly increase insulin secretion relative to glucose elevation (ISG) after meal load (ISG0–180 min: AUC0–180 min insulin / AUC0–180 min glucose) in comparison with that in baseline, the mean ISG0–30 min 24 weeks after addition of vildagliptin to nateglinide was significantly higher than that at baseline. In contrast, switching from nateglinide to vildagliptin reduced the mean ISG0–180 min, relative to baseline.ConclusionsThe combination therapy of vildagliptin and nateglinide is effective and safe in Japanese type 2 diabetes, and the improved glycemic control is as a result of augmentation of nateglinide‐induced early phase insulin secretion. This trial was registered with UMIN (no. ID000004010).
Reply to Sealey and Carter on Realism and Language
Authors: Elder‐Vass Dave 
Published: November 2013

AbstractThis short reply seeks to clarify the concept of linguistic norm circles and to correct some misunderstandings of it implicit in Sealey & Carter's response. It also reinforces some doubts over their version of the linguistic system. Norm circles, it argues, provide an important part of the explanation for linguistic practices, but always in conjunction with other interacting causal powers.