bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
HIPK2 expression in progression of cutaneous epithelial neoplasm
Authors: Kwon Mi Jung , Min Soo Kee , Seo Jinwon , Kim Dong Hoon , Sung Chang Ohk , Lim Man Sup , Cho Jiwoong , Park Hye‐Rim 
Published: February 2015

AbstractBackgroundHomeodomain‐interacting protein kinase 2 (HIPK2) is responsible for a DNA damage response, centrally regulating p53. The aberrant HIPK2 expression is known to be involved in carcinogenesis in several malignancies. However, the correlation of HIPK2 expression along with progression of cutaneous epithelial neoplasm has not been investigated.MethodsUsing immunohistochemistry and real‐time reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction, we examined the correlation between HIPK2 and HIPK2‐related protein expressions and the progression of some cutaneous epithelial neoplasms (i.e., actinic keratosis, Bowen's disease, keratoacanthoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and basal cell carcinoma).ResultsHIPK2 expression was distinct between preinvasive and invasive lesions: the expression decreased in keratoacanthoma (none of eight) and squamous cell carcinoma (five of 35) compared to actinic keratosis (12 of 19) and Bowen's disease (10 of 23) (P < 0.001). HIPK2 expression was also negatively correlated with aggressiveness of basal cell carcinoma; high‐risk subtypes showed lower HIPK2 expression than did low‐risk subtypes (P < 0.001). HIPK2 mRNA expression of each tumor group was significantly higher than that of normal skin. HIPK2 mRNA expression of each tumor group was not correlated with the relevant HIPK2 protein expression, which was consistent with previous studies.ConclusionsHIPK2 expression tends to be decreased along tumor progression and may be involved with the invasive potential, suggesting a possible tumor suppressor role for HIPK2.
MicroRNA expression profiling of human blood monocyte subsets highlights functional differences
Authors: Dang Truong‐Minh , Wong Wing‐Cheong , Ong Siew‐Min , Li Peng , Lum Josephine , Chen Jinmiao , Poidinger Michael , Zolezzi Francesca , Wong Siew‐Cheng 
Published: February 2015

SummaryWithin human blood there are two subsets of monocytes that can be identified by differential expression of CD16. Although numerous phenotypic and functional differences between the subsets have been described, little is known of the mechanisms underlying the distinctive properties of the two subsets. MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non‐coding RNAs that can regulate gene expression through promoting mRNA degradation or repressing translation, leading to alterations in cellular processes. Their potential influence on the functions of monocyte subsets has not been investigated. In this study, we employed microarray analysis to define the miRNA expression profile of human monocyte subsets. We identified 66 miRNAs that were differentially expressed (DE) between CD16+ and CD16− monocytes. Gene ontology analysis revealed that the predicted targets of the DE miRNAs were predominantly associated with cell death and cellular movement. We validated the functional impacts of selected DE miRNAs in CD16− monocytes, over‐expression of miR‐432 significantly increases apoptosis, and inhibiting miR‐19a significantly reduces cell motility. Furthermore, we found that miR‐345, another DE miRNA directly targets the transcription factor RelA in monocytes, which resulted in the differential expression of RelA in monocyte subsets. This implicates miR‐345 indirect regulation of many genes downstream of RelA, including important inflammatory mediators. Together, our data show that DE miRNAs could contribute substantially to regulating the functions of human blood monocytes.
Obstetric Anal Sphincter Injury and Anal Incontinence Following Vaginal Birth: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: LaCross Allison , Groff Meredith , Smaldone Arlene 
Published: February 2015

IntroductionThe aim of this study was to systematically review current evidence for the relationship between obstetric anal sphincter injury (ie, episiotomy and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal lacerations) and anal incontinence in parous women.MethodsPubMed, Ovid (MEDLINE), Cochrane Trials, and Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature were searched. Studies eligible for review assessed the relationship between episiotomy and/or third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration and anal incontinence. Two reviewers independently searched for studies for review and used the Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology guidelines. Quality of individual studies was appraised using the Downs and Black criteria. Pooled effect sizes were estimated for the relationships between episiotomy and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration with anal incontinence using random effects meta‐analysis models. Heterogeneity of each model was assessed using Cochran Q and I2statistics.ResultsOf 578 articles, 19 studies (7 prospective cohort studies, 6 retrospective studies, one case‐control study, and 5 population‐based cross‐sectional studies) met inclusion/exclusion criteria for the systematic review. Of the 19 studies, 3 examined episiotomy, 7 examined third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration, and 9 studies examined both risk factors for anal incontinence. Eight studies (N = 2929 women) examining the relationship between episiotomy and anal incontinence and 12 studies (N = 2288 women) examining the relationship between third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration and anal incontinence met criteria for inclusion in the meta‐analyses. Pooled odds ratios (ORs) demonstrated a significant association between perineal trauma (episiotomy [OR, 1.74; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.28‐2.38; Q = 8.9;P< .26; I2= 21.4] and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration (OR, 2.66; 95% CI, 1.77‐3.98; Q = 27.9; P = .002; I2= 64.1) and anal incontinence.DiscussionBoth episiotomy and third‐ or fourth‐degree perineal laceration are significantly associated with anal incontinence after vaginal birth. The evidence provided in this systematic review and meta‐analysis highlights the importance of reducing perineal trauma during vaginal births in order to ameliorate anal incontinence in parous women.
Lifestyle intervention and one‐year prognosis of patients following open heart surgery: a randomised clinical trial
Authors: Kadda Olga , Kotanidou Anastasia , Manginas Athanasios , Stavridis George , Nanas Serafim , Panagiotakos Demosthenes B 
Published: February 2015

Aims and objectivesTo evaluate the one‐year prognosis of a lifestyle counselling intervention (diet, smoking cessation and exercise) among patients who had open heart surgery.BackgroundCardiovascular disease is the leading cause of morbidity worldwide in both developing and developed countries. Lifestyle modification plays an important role for patients who are at a high risk of developing cardiovascular disease and for those with an established cardiovascular disease.DesignRandomised, nonblind and lifestyle counselling intervention study with a one‐year follow‐up.MethodsA randomised, nonblind intervention study was performed on 500 patients who had open heart surgery. After hospital discharge, 250 patients (intervention group) were randomly allocated lifestyle counselling according to the recent guidelines provided by the European Society of Cardiology (European Journal Preventive Cardiology, 19, 2012, 585). The remaining 250 patients (control group) received the regular instructions. Primary end‐point was the development of a cardiovascular disease (nonfatal event) during the first year; secondary end‐points included fatal events, smoking abstinence, dietary habits and a physical activity evaluation.ResultsAccording to the primary end‐point, the odds of having a nonfatal cardiovascular disease event are 0·56‐times (95%CI 0·28, 0·96, p = 0·03) lower for the intervention group compared to the control group. One‐year after surgery, it was found that participants in the intervention group were 1·96‐times (95%CI 1·31, 2·93, p < 0·001) more likely to achieve dietary recommendations, 3·32‐times (95%CI 2·24, 4·91, p < 0·001) more likely to achieve physical activity recommendations and 1·34‐times (95%CI 1·15, 1·56, p < 0·001) more likely to return to work.ConclusionLifestyle counselling intervention following open heart surgery can improve health outcomes and reduce the risk of a new cardiac event. Health care services must recommend and organise well‐structured cardiac rehabilitation programmes adjusted to the patient's needs.Relevance to clinical practiceA well‐structured cardiac rehabilitation programme adjusted to the patient's profile is a safe and cost‐effective way to improve patients' outcome.
Effects of Industry‐ and Region‐Specific Acquisition Experience on Value Creation in Cross‐Border Acquisitions: The Moderating Role of Cultural Similarity
Authors: Basuil Dynah A. , Datta Deepak K. 
Published: February 2015

ABSTRACTBased on a sample of 222 cross‐border acquisitions by US firms in the service sector, our study examines the effects of acquiring firms' prior cross‐border acquisition experience in the same industry and geographic region as the acquired firm on shareholder value creation. Using the BHAR (buy‐and‐hold abnormal returns) methodology, we find that higher levels of industry‐specific and region‐specific acquisition experience translate into greater shareholder value creation for acquiring firms in subsequent acquisitions. In addition, our results indicate that the effects of industry‐specific acquisition experience on acquisition performance are contingent on the level of cultural similarity between the acquiring and acquired firm countries, with the benefits of prior experience being greater in acquisitions undertaken in culturally similar countries. We also find that the moderating effects of cultural similarity on the relationship between industry‐specific acquisition experience and value creation are contingent on the level of prior region‐specific acquisition experience possessed by the acquiring firm.
Molecular cloning of melatonin 2‐hydroxylase responsible for 2‐hydroxymelatonin production in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Byeon Yeong , Back Kyoungwhan 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAlthough melatonin biosynthetic genes from plants have been cloned, the melatonin catabolism mechanisms remain unclear. To clone the genes responsible for melatonin metabolism, we ectopically expressed 35 full‐length cDNAs of rice 2‐oxoglutarate‐dependent dioxygenase (2‐ODD) in Escherichia coli and purified the corresponding recombinant proteins. In vitro 2‐ODD assays showed four independent 2‐ODD proteins that were able to catalyze melatonin into 2‐hydroxymelatonin, exhibiting melatonin 2‐hydroxylase (M2H). These M2H proteins had peak activities at pH 8.0 and 30°C. The Km ranged from 121 μm to 371 μm with the Vmax ranging from 1.7 to 18.5 pkat/mg protein, respectively. The M2H enzyme activities were dependent on cofactors such as α‐ketoglutarate, ascorbate, and Fe2+, similar to the 2‐ODD enzymes. M2H activity was inhibited by prohexadione‐Ca, an inhibitor of 2‐ODD, in a dose‐dependent manner. M2H activity was high in the roots of rice seedlings, concurrent with high transcription levels of 2‐ODD 21, suggesting that 2‐ODD 21 was a major gene for M2H activity. Analogous to the high M2H activity in the roots, 2‐hydroxymelatonin was found in large quantities in roots treated with melatonin. These results suggest that melatonin was metabolized into 2‐hydroxymelatonin by the M2H genes in plants, but the physiological significance of 2‐hydroxymelatonin remains to be examined in the future.
Functional analysis of drug resistance‐associated mutations in the Trypanosoma brucei adenosine transporter 1 (TbAT1) and the proposal of a structural model for the protein
Authors: Munday Jane C. , Tagoe Daniel N. A. , Eze Anthonius A. , Krezdorn Jessica A. M. , Rojas López Karla E. , Alkhaldi Abdulsalam A. M. , McDonald Fiona , Still Jennifer , Alzahrani Khalid J. , Settimo Luca , De Koning Harry P. 
Published: February 2015

SummaryThe Trypanosoma brucei aminopurine transporter P2/TbAT1 has long been implicated in the transport of, and resistance to, the diamidine and melaminophenyl arsenical classes of drugs that form the backbone of the pharmacopoeia against African trypanosomiasis. Genetic alterations including deletions and single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) have been observed in numerous strains and clinical isolates. Here, we systematically investigate each reported mutation and assess their effects on transporter function after expression in a tbat1−/− T. brucei line. Out of a set of six reported SNPs from a reported ‘resistance allele’, none significantly impaired sensitivity to pentamidine, diminazene or melarsoprol, relative to the TbAT1‐WT allele, although several combinations, and the deletion of the codon for residue F316, resulted in highly significant impairment. These combinations of SNPs, and ΔF316, also strongly impaired the uptake of [3H]‐adenosine and [3H]‐diminazene, identical to the tbat1−/− control. The TbAT1 protein model predicted that residues F19, D140 and F316 interact with the substrate of the transporter. Mutation of D140 to alanine resulted in an inactive transporter, whereas the mutation F19A produced a transporter with a slightly increased affinity for [3H]‐diminazene but reduced the uptake rate. The results presented here validate earlier hypotheses of drug binding motifs for TbAT1.
Two thiadiazole compounds promote rice defence against Xanthomonas oryzae pv. oryzae by suppressing the bacterium's production of extracellular polysaccharides
Authors: Liang Xiaoyu , Yu Xiaoyue , Dong Wenxia , Guo Shijian , Xu Shu , Wang Jianxin , Zhou Mingguo 
Published: February 2015

SummaryThiazole, isothiazole, thiadiazole, and their derivatives are used to control various human, animal and plant diseases. In addition to having direct anti‐microbial and anti‐fungal properties, these compounds are thought to induce host defences, but the mechanism of defence induction remains poorly understood. This article reports that the thiadiazoles of zinc thiazole and bismerthiazol induce H2O2 accumulation, up‐regulation of defence‐related genes, callose deposition and hypersensitive response‐like cell death in rice leaves infected with Xanthomonas oryaze pv. oryzae (Xoo) strain ZJ173, but not in non‐infected leaves. These defence responses in Xoo‐infected leaves were suppressed by the exogenous application of catalase, which reduces H2O2 accumulation. The application of extracellular polysaccharides (EPSs) extracted from strain ZJ173 significantly compromised rice defence against ZJ173 with or without thiadiazole treatment. The EPS‐deficient Xoo mutant ∆gumH triggered a stronger defence than its parent strain ZJ173. The thiadiazole treatments reduced EPS production by strain ZJ173, but not by the thiadiazole‐resistant strain 2‐1‐1, which is thiadiazole resistant in vivo, but not in vitro; moreover, enhanced defence was not detected in thiadiazole‐treated rice inoculated with 2‐1‐1. Based on these data, we infer that zinc thiazole and bismerthiazol promote rice defence against Xoo by inhibiting the production of bacterial EPS.
Pathological features of preclinical or early clinical stages of corticobasal degeneration: a comparison with advanced cases
Authors: Nishida Naoki , Yoshida Koji , Hata Yukiko , Arai Yuichi , Kinoshita Koshi 
Published: February 2015

AimsThe manner in which pathological lesions of corticobasal degeneration (CBD) progress remains poorly understood. Because the pathology of early disease stages may be fundamental for elucidating a border between clinical and preclinical states of CBD, the present study aimed to detect preclinical or early clinical CBD cases by examining a series of forensic autopsy cases.MethodsA series of 887 brains from medicolegal autopsies was examined. Immunohistochemistry for tau (AT8, 3, and 4‐repeat‐tau) and Gallyas‐Braak was applied for diagnosis. Neuropathological diagnosis of CBD followed criteria updated in 2002 by a working group.ResultsThree autopsy cases (0.34%) were identified that fulfilled CBD pathological criteria. Two cases were preclinical or very early clinical cases without brain atrophy; the other case had exhibited a 5‐year history of advanced frontotemporal dementia. Significant microscopic differences between the subclinical and clinical cases included occurrence of neuronal loss with spongiosis and gliosis, as well as a difference in degree of tau pathology in the superficial layer of the neocortical areas and white matter. Anatomical hierarchy of tau pathology in the brain was not evident, but asymmetric neocortical tau pathology that might influence the clinical phenotype was found in preclinical and early clinical cases.ConclusionsThe results revealed the pathological features of subclinical and early clinical CBD cases. Comparison with clinical CBD cases showed that neuronal loss, cortical atrophy and volume reduction of white matter may be involved in the occurrence of clinical symptoms of CBD. Additionally, immunohistochemistry is essential for detecting preclinical CBD cases, regardless of case selection.
Hyperbaric oxygen in the treatment of calciphylaxis: A case series and literature review
Authors: An Jennifer , Devaney Bridget , Ooi Khai Yang , Ford Sharon , Frawley Geoff , Menahem Solomon 
Published: February 2015

AbstractAimsCalcific uraemic arteriolopathy (CUA) or calciphylaxis is most commonly seen in end‐stage renal disease and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to determine whether hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) is effective in healing calciphylaxis lesions and to determine if there are any patient factors that can predict wound healing and patient survival.MethodsWe identified by retrospective review all cases of CUA referred to our institution for treatment with HBOT. We documented the clinical and biochemical parameters of this patient population, the size and distribution of the lesions as well as wound outcomes and patient survival following treatment.ResultsA total 46 patients were identified with CUA associated with renal failure. Of the 46 patients, only 34 received a full course of HBOT. The balance was deemed unsuitable for treatment or was unable to tolerate treatment and was palliated. Of the 34 patients that received a full course of HBOT, 58% showed improvement in their wound scores, with more than half of these patients having complete healing of their wounds. The balance did not benefit from the therapy and had a very poor prognosis. Those that benefited from HBOT survived on average for more than 3 years. The only factor significantly associated with improved wound healing and survival was diabetes.ConclusionThis retrospective analysis suggests a role for HBOT in the treatment of CUA with more than half of the treated patients benefiting and surviving for an average of more than 3 years.
Topography as a driver of diversification in the Cape Floristic Region of South Africa
Authors: Verboom G. Anthony , Bergh Nicola G. , Haiden Sarah A. , Hoffmann Vera , Britton Matthew N. 
Published: February 2015

Summary

The rugged topography of the Cape Floristic Region (CFR), South Africa, is frequently invoked to explain the spectacular radiation of the Cape flora, but the mechanisms involved remain unclear. Where recent authors emphasize the importance of elevation gradients as stimuli for ecological speciation, earlier workers stressed the role of topography as an isolating mechanism, particularly in montane lineages.

Using six Cape plant lineages, we tested whether elevation niches are phylogenetically conserved. We then assessed whether high‐elevation species are more consistently range‐restricted than low‐elevation species, and whether high‐elevation sisters show stronger range exclusivity (allopatry) and weaker ecological and phenotypic differentiation, suggestive of nonecological speciation.

Elevation niches tend to be phylogenetically conserved. Also, high‐elevation species are more consistently range‐restricted than low‐elevation species, potentially explaining the generally stronger range exclusivity of high‐elevation sisters. While the high‐elevation zone is less homogeneous ecologically, more data are required to demonstrate that high‐elevation sister species show generally weaker ecological and phenotypic differentiation.

Topographic complexity promotes geographical isolation at high elevations, thereby providing opportunities for nonecological, vicariant speciation. While recognizing the need for additional data, we suggest that the upland and lowland floras of the CFR may differ with regard to predominant speciation mode.
Reconstruction of Limb Deformities in Patients with Thrombocytopenia‐absent Radius Syndrome
Authors: Al Kaissi Ali , Girsch Werner , Kenis Vladimir , Melchenko Eugeniy , Ben Ghachem Maher , Pospischill Renata , Klaushofer Klaus , Grill Franz , Ganger Rudolf 
Published: February 2015

ObjectiveDevelopmental abnormalities of the appendicular skeleton are among the most common and easily identified birth defects. The aim of this report was to describe the phenotypic characterization of several patients with thrombocytopenia‐absent radius (TAR) syndrome and the orthopaedic interventions performed on them. TAR syndrome is inherited in an autosomal recessive manner and results from compound heterozygosity of RBM8A mutations.MethodsReconstructions were designed and performed in five patients with TAR syndrome, mainly comprising orthopaedic interventions to correct their upper limb defects. Additional lower limb deformities (severe internal rotation of the tibiae) was been encountered in one patient.ResultsThe affected patients’ wrists were re‐aligned and stabilized and the musculotendinous forces around the wrist rebalanced to reverse the ulnar forearm bow.ConclusionPatients with TAR syndrome who receive optimal treatment can expect to return to most activities of daily living with some limitation of wrist extension and ulnar deviation and, of course, with a reduced total active range of digital motion.
Thromboelastography Predictive of Death in Trauma Patients
Authors: Kane Ian , Ong Alvin , Orozco Fabio R , Post Zachary D , Austin Luke S , Radcliff Kris E 
Published: February 2015

ObjectivesTo determine if thromboelastography (TEG) is predictive of patient outcomes following traumatic injury.MethodsA retrospective review of 131 patients with pelvic trauma admitted to a Level II trauma center was conducted over four years from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2012. Patients were identified retrospectively from a prospectively collected database of acute pelvic trauma (n = 372). Eligible patients were identified from billing/coding data as having fractures of the acetabulum, iliac wing or sacral alae. Patients with incomplete TEG data were excluded (n = 241), as were patients with pathological fractures. TEG clotting variables and traditional clotting variables were recorded.ResultsEvaluation of TEG data revealed 41 patients with abnormal clotting times (TEG R). TEG R > 6 was an independent risk factor for death (OR, 16; 95%CI 5.4–53; P = 0.0001). The death rate was 52% in patients with TEG R values ≥6 (n = 13/25). There was no significant association between traditional clotting markers and death rate.ConclusionsTEG reaction time value, representing the time of initial clot formation, was the only hematologic marker predictive of mortality in patients with pelvic trauma. Delay in reaction time was associated with a significantly increased death rate, independent of injury severity. The death rate association was not observed with traditional markers of clotting. Future prospective studies may be warranted to determine the presentation and significance of TEG abnormalities when resuscitating patients with orthopaedic trauma.