bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multispectral terahertz sensing with highly flexible ultrathin metamaterial absorber
Authors: Yahiaoui Riad , Tan Siyu , Cong Longqing , Singh Ranjan , Yan Fengping , Zhang Weili
Published: August 2015

We report the simulation, fabrication, and experimental characterization of a multichannel metamaterial absorber with the aim to be used as a label-free sensing platform in the terahertz regime. The topology of the investigated resonators deposited on a thin flexible polymer by means of optical lithography is capable of supporting multiple resonances over a broad frequency range due to the individual contribution of each sub-element of the unit cell. In order to explore the performance of the chosen structure in terms of sensing phenomenon, the reflection feature is monitored upon variation of the refractive index and the thickness of the analyte. We achieve numerically maximum frequency sensitivity of about 139.2 GHz/refractive index unit. Measurements carried out using terahertz time-domain spectroscopy show good agreement with the numerical predictions. The results are very promising, suggesting a potential use of the metamaterial absorber in wide variety of multispectral terahertz sensing applications.
Efficient algorithms for Hirshfeld-I charges
Authors: Finzel Kati , Martín Pendás Ángel , Francisco Evelio
Published: August 2015

A new viewpoint on iterative Hirshfeld charges is presented, whereby the atomic populations obtained from such a scheme are interpreted as such populations which reproduce themselves. This viewpoint yields a self-consistent requirement for the Hirshfeld-I populations rather than being understood as the result of an iterative procedure. Based on this self-consistent requirement, much faster algorithms for Hirshfeld-I charges have been developed. In addition, new atomic reference densities for the Hirshfeld-I procedure are presented. The proposed reference densities are N-representable, display proper atomic shell structure and can be computed for any charged species.
Quartic force field-derived vibrational frequencies and spectroscopic constants for the isomeric pair SNO and OSN and isotopologues
Authors: Fortenberry Ryan C. , Francisco Joseph S.
Published: August 2015

The SNO and OSN radical isomers are likely to be of significance in atmospheric and astrochemistry, but very little is known about their gas phase spectroscopic properties. State-of-the-art ab initio composite quartic force fields are employed to analyze the rovibrational features for both systems. Comparison to condensed-phase experimental data for SNO has shown that the 1566.4 cm−1 ν1 N–O stretch is indeed exceptionally bright and likely located in this vicinity for subsequent gas phase experimental analysis. The OSN ν1 at 1209.4 cm−1 is better described as the antisymmetric stretch in this molecule and is also quite bright. The full vibrational, rotational, and rovibrational data are provided for SNO and OSN and their single 15N, 18O, and 34S isotopic substitutions in order to give a more complete picture as to the chemical physics of these molecules.
Solar power intermittency reduction using supercapacitors integrated with solar panels
Authors: Anand V. P. , Indumathi S. , Pesala Bala
Published: August 2015

Solar power is fundamentally very intermittent. The majority of the power is produced when the sun is shining brightly and is significantly reduced during substantial cloud cover and dust settlement. As solar Photovoltaic (PV) sources grow in use and the percentage of grid power met by them increases, grid stability becomes an increasingly important issue. In principle, the usage of an energy storage at the solar farm would reduce the effects of intermittency. However, batteries which are commonly used for storage of DC power are not a suitable option with intermittent power sources due to their high cost and low lifetimes (2000–3000 cycles). Supercapacitors have excellent power and cycling capabilities (100 000 cycles) make them ideal for storing and discharging energy from intermittent sources. They can be easily integrated with individual solar panels, offering an attractive option to reduce intermittency right at the panel level. In this paper, simulations have been carried out to understand the effect of intermittency on the PV system performance and it was found that the power output drastically decreases due to intermittency. Simulations show that a 50% solar shading causes a 50%–60% loss in solar power output. To manage the intermittency, we have designed and built two systems (Model 1 and Model 2) where a supercapacitor is being used as the storage element and is directly connected to the solar panels. The first model uses a simple relay based switching for reducing intermittencies. However, it is not efficient under all shading intermittencies. The second model uses a semiconductor switching integrated with dynamic threshold limiter which works successfully in all types of intermittencies for a period of 45 to 75 s (with a minimal switching time of 40 ms). The system proposed here is easily scalable to accommodate higher storage requirements.
Behavioural characterisation of Holstein steers in three different production systems
Authors: Blumetto O. , Ruggia A. , Dalmau A. , Estellés F. , Villagrá A.
Published: August 2015

The objective of the present study was to characterise the behaviour of Holstein steers in three different production systems. Forty-eight castrated Holstein males were randomly divided into three groups and allocated to the following three outdoor treatments: (T1) animals confined in a yard with an area of 210 m2, (T2) animals confined in a similar-sized yard but with 6 h of access to a pasture plot, (T3) animals maintained throughout the experiment on a pasture plot. Behaviour was recorded by scan sampling, 12 h a day (from 0700 hours to 1900 hours), 3 days per week, for 4 weeks evenly distributed from Week 7 to Week 16 of the experiment. So as to assess their patterns of behaviour, a negative binomial regression, correspondence analysis and logistic regressions were performed. Grazing was the predominant behaviour among Groups T2 and T3, while ‘eating hay’ was the most frequent behaviour among Group T1. For all treatments, lying was the second-most frequent behaviour. Despite animals in T2 having access to pasture for only half of the time with respect to those in T3, there was no difference between both treatments in the time spent grazing. Correspondence analysis of behaviour as a function of weather conditions showed that several behaviours were close to certain weather conditions, e.g. ‘standing’ and ‘ruminating while standing’ were closer to light rainy weather, while ‘lying’ or ‘ruminating while lying’ were more related to sunny weather.’Lying’ tended to increase along the day in all treatments, while ‘eating hay’ increased along the day within Group T1, but decreased within Groups T2 and T3. It is concluded that the management conditions associated with the systems that were studied produced different behavioural patterns in the steers. Grazing behaviour is important for the animals, and the permanent or restricted possibility to perform it, determined by the production system, meant that the patterns of other behaviours changed to give priority to pasture intake.
Aryl Naphthoates: A Conformational Analysis Supported by Single-Crystal X-Ray Diffraction
Authors: Jios Jorge L. , Wartchow Rudolf , Echeverría Gustavo A. , Duddeck Helmut
Published: August 2015

The conformational study by X-ray diffraction of 12 aroyl esters of ortho-acetyl phenols is reported. The data are supported by theoretical calculations and described in terms of co-planarity, intramolecular steric interference, and intermolecular contacts. The observed hindrance was correlated with the C=O stretching vibration values in infrared spectroscopy.
Depletion of NADP(H) due to CD38 activation triggers endothelial dysfunction in the postischemic heart
Authors: Reyes Levy A. , Boslett James , Varadharaj Saradhadevi , De Pascali Francesco , Hemann Craig , Druhan Lawrence J. , Ambrosio Giuseppe , El-Mahdy Mohamed , Zweier Jay L.
Published: August 2015

Significance

Vasodilation is impaired in the postischemic heart due to loss of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) function; however, the central trigger of this endothelial dysfunction is unknown. We observe that near total depletion of the eNOS substrate NADPH occurs in postischemic endothelium, triggering eNOS dysfunction and limiting rescue of its essential cofactor BH
4
. This NADPH depletion was shown to be due to marked activation of the NAD(P)ase activity of CD38 and could be prevented by its inhibition or genetic knockdown. Thus, CD38 activation with pronounced NADPH depletion is first identified as a critical trigger of postischemic endothelial dysfunction, and this presents a novel therapeutic target for the treatment of unstable coronary syndromes and prevention of coronary disease.
Scripts and information units in future planning: Interactions between a past and a future planning task
Authors: Cordonnier Aline , Barnier Amanda J. , Sutton John
Published: August 2015

Research on future thinking has emphasized how episodic details from memories are combined to create future thoughts, but has not yet examined the role of semantic scripts. In this study, participants recalled how they planned a past camping trip in Australia (past planning task) and imagined how they would plan a future camping trip (future planning task), set either in a familiar (Australia) or an unfamiliar (Antarctica) context. Transcripts were segmented into information units that were coded according to semantic category (e.g., where, when, transport, material, actions). Results revealed a strong interaction between tasks and their presentation order. Starting with the past planning task constrained the future planning task when the context was familiar. Participants generated no new information when the future camping trip was set in Australia and completed second (after the past planning task). Conversely, starting with the future planning task facilitated the past planning task. Participants recalled more information units of their past plan when the past planning task was completed second (after the future planning task). These results shed new light on the role of scripts in past and future thinking and on how past and future thinking processes interact.
The Natural Resource Curse and Fiscal Decentralization
Authors: Perez-Sebastian Fidel , Raveh Ohad
Published: August 2015

Natural resource abundance is a blessing for some countries, but a curse for others. We show that differences across countries in the degree of fiscal decentralization can contribute to this divergent outcome. Using a large panel of countries covering several decades and various fiscal decentralization and natural resource measures, we provide empirical support for the novel hypothesis. We also study a model that combines political and market mechanisms under a unified framework to illustrate how natural resource booms may create negative effects in fiscally decentralized nations.
Physical, Compositional, and Wet‐Milling Characteristics of Mexican Blue Maize (Zea mays L.) Landrace
Authors: Uriarte‐Aceves Perla Marysol , Cuevas‐Rodríguez Edith Oliva , Gutiérrez‐Dorado Roberto , Mora‐Rochín Saraid , Reyes‐Moreno Cuauhtémoc , Puangpraphant Sirima , Milán‐Carrillo Jorge
Published: August 2015

Mexico has the largest diversity of genetic resources for maize in the world, with about 59 different landraces. However, little is known about their wet‐milling characteristics. The aim of this study was to determine whether 15 Mexican blue maize (Zea mays L.) genotypes of Elotero de Sinaloa landrace collected in the northwestern region of Mexico have suitable wet‐milling properties. Great variability of physical, compositional, and wet‐milling characteristics among these blue maize genotypes was observed. The FAUAS‐457 and FAUAS‐488 maize genotypes had similar starch yield and starch recovery as reported for the wet‐milling industry, which indicated that they may be useful as a source of extractable starch. Residual protein levels in the starch fractions were in the range of 0.39–0.68%, and total solids recovery exhibited a mean value of 98.8%, indicating acceptable efficacy of the wet‐milling process. This process afforded starches from blue maize genotypes with low protein contents. Wet‐milling fractions correlated with the physical and chemical properties of the kernels. Our results indicate that Mexican blue maize genotypes contain characteristics that make them appropriate and utilizable at the industrial level, and they can also be valuable for improving wet‐milling characteristics of maize through breeding programs.
The Influence of Knee Pain Location on Symptoms, Functional Status, and Knee-related Quality of Life in Older Adults With Chronic Knee Pain
Authors: Farrokhi Shawn , Chen Yi-Fan , Piva Sara R. , Fitzgerald G. Kelley , Jeong Jong-Hyeon , Kwoh C. Kent
Published: August 2015

Objective:

To evaluate whether knee pain location can influence symptoms, functional status, and knee-related quality of life in older adults with chronic knee pain.

Materials and Methods:

A total of 2959 painful knees from the Osteoarthritis Initiative database were analyzed. Trained interviewers recorded patient-reported location of knee pain. Painful knees were divided into 3 groups of patellofemoral only pain, tibiofemoral only pain, and combined pain. Self-reported knee-specific symptoms, functional status, and knee-related quality of life were assessed using the Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score.

Results:

The most common knee pain pattern was tibiofemoral only pain (62%), followed by patellofemoral only pain (23%), and combined pain (15%). The combined pain pattern was associated with greater odds of reporting pain, symptoms, sports, or recreational activity limitations and lower knee-related quality of life compared with either isolated knee pain patterns, after adjusting for demographics and radiographic disease severity. Individual item analysis further revealed that patients with combined pain had greater odds of reporting difficulty with daily weight-bearing activities that required knee bending compared with tibiofemoral or patellofemoral only pain patterns. Furthermore, symptoms, functional status, and knee-related quality of life were comparable between patients with patellofemoral and tibiofemoral only pain patterns, after adjusting for demographics and radiographic disease severity.

Discussion:

Combined patellofemoral and tibiofemoral pain is associated with poorer clinical presentation compared with isolated knee pain from either location. In addition, patellofemoral pain in isolation may be as important as tibiofemoral pain in causing symptoms and functional limitation in older adults with chronic knee pain.
Biomechanical Investigation of a Novel Revision Device in an Osteoporotic Model
Authors: Manon Jacinto , Hussain Mir M. , Harris Jonathan , Moldavsky Mark , La Marca Frank , Bucklen Brandon S.
Published: August 2015

Study Design:

In vitro cadaveric biomechanical study.

Objective:

To assess revision pullout strength of novel anchored screws (AS) versus conventional larger diameter traditional pedicle screws (TPS) in an osteoporotic model.

Summary of Background Data:

Pedicle screws are the most ubiquitous method of treating spinal pathologies requiring lumbar fusion. Although these screws are effective in providing 3-column stabilization of the spine, revision surgeries are occasionally necessary, particularly for geriatric and osteoporotic populations. Innovative technologies should be tested to ensure continued improvement in revision techniques.

Methods:

For 4 specimens at L2–L5 (T-score=−3.6±0.54), 6.5-mm-diameter TPS were inserted into left and right pedicles and were pulled out; revision screws were then inserted. Polyether-ether-ketone anchors, designed to expand around a 6.5-mm screw, were inserted into all left pedicles. On the contralateral side, 7.5-mm-diameter TPS were inserted at L2–L3, and 8.5-mm-diameter TPS at L4–L5. Pullout testing was performed at 10 mm/min. The maximum pullout strength and insertion forces were recorded.

Results:

The initial average pullout force (6.5-mm screw) was 837 N (±329 N) and 642 N (±318 N) in L2–L3 and L4–L5 left pedicles, and 705 N (±451 N) and 779 N (±378 N) in L2–L3 and L4–L5 right pedicles, respectively. Comparison of revision pullout forces versus initial pullout forces revealed the following: 87% and 63% for AS in L2–L3 and L4–L5 left pedicles, respectively; 56% for 7.5-mm and 93% for 8.5-mm TPS in L2–L3 and L4–L5 right pedicles, respectively.

Conclusions:

Anchor sleeves with 6.5-mm-diameter pedicle screws provided markedly higher resistance to screw pullout than 7.5-mm-diameter revision screws and fixation statistically equivalent to 8.5-mm-diameter screws, possibly because of medial-lateral expansion within the vertebral space and/or convex filling of the pedicle. AS results had the lowest SD, indicating minimal variability in bone-screw purchase.
Bone Age and Serum Osteocalcin Levels in Children With Obstructive Sleep Apnea Hypopnea Syndrome Before and After Adenotonsillectomy
Authors: Feng Hui-Wei , Tian Yu-Dong , Zhang Hong-Ping , Zhang Hui , Wang Zhe , Jia Tao , Zhang Hai-Ling , Fan Xian-Liang , Chen Xue-Mei , Xu Feng-Lei
Published: August 2015

Our aim was to study the changes in bone age and serum osteocalcin levels before and after adenotonsillectomy (AT) in children with obstructive sleep apnea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). A total of 58 OSAHS children (37 males and 21 females) with the mean age of 6.68 ± 1.11 years were enrolled and assessed by x-ray–based bone age estimation and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay–based measurement of serum osteocalcin levels, before surgery and 6 months after AT. SPSS 19.0 software was used for statistical analysis. Our results revealed that bone age and serum osteocalcin levels in OSAHS patients were significantly lower than normal controls before AT (P< 0.05). Within 6 months after surgery, the bone age and the serum osteocalcin levels were significantly elevated in OSAHS patients (P< 0.05), compared with those before surgery. Serum osteocalcin levels and bone age are negatively correlated with apnea–hypopnea index, oxygen desaturation index, the percentage of the total recorded time spent below 90% oxygen saturation, and Epworth sleepiness scale scores (allP< 0.05). Our findings suggested that bone age and serum osteocalcin levels may be correlated with the development of OSAHS in children. AT may improve bone age and serum osteocalcin levels in OSAHS children.
Identifying Natural Alignments Between Ambulatory Surgery Centers and Local Health Systems
Authors: Funk Russell J. , Owen-Smith Jason , Landon Bruce E. , Birkmeyer John D. , Hollingsworth John M.
Published: August 2015

Objective:

To develop and compare methods for identifying natural alignments between ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) and hospitals that anchor local health systems.

Measures:

Using all-payer data from Florida’s State Ambulatory Surgery and Inpatient Databases (2005–2009), we developed 3 methods for identifying alignments between ASCS and hospitals. The first, a geographic proximity approach, used spatial data to assign an ASC to its nearest hospital neighbor. The second, a predominant affiliation approach, assigned an ASC to the hospital with which it shared a plurality of surgeons. The third, a network community approach, linked an ASC with a larger group of hospitals held together by naturally occurring physician networks. We compared each method in terms of its ability to capture meaningful and stable affiliations and its administrative simplicity.

Results:

Although the proximity approach was simplest to implement and produced the most durable alignments, ASC surgeon’s loyalty to the assigned hospital was low with this method. The predominant affiliation and network community approaches performed better and nearly equivalently on these metrics, capturing more meaningful affiliations between ASCs and hospitals. However, the latter’s alignments were least durable, and it was complex to administer.

Conclusions:

We describe 3 methods for identifying natural alignments between ASCs and hospitals, each with strengths and weaknesses. These methods will help health system managers identify ASCs with which to partner. Moreover, health services researchers and policy analysts can use them to study broader communities of surgical care.
Gastric Emptying of Liquids in Children
Authors: Hauser Bruno , Roelants Mathieu , De Schepper Jean , Veereman Gigi , Caveliers Vicky , Devreker Thierry , De Greef Elisabeth , Vandenplas Yvan
Published: August 2015

Objectives:

The present study was performed to determine normal values for gastric half‐emptying time (t1/2GE) of liquids in healthy children.

Methods:

Gastric emptying (GE) of a standardized test milk‐drink measured with 99mtechnetium scintigraphy and the 13C‐acetate breath test (13C‐ABT) was compared in 19 children ages between 4 and 15 years with upper gastrointestinal symptoms. The 13C‐ABT was subsequently used to determine normal values for GE of the same liquid test meal in 133 healthy children ages between 1 and 17 years.

Results:

In the group of children with upper gastrointestinal symptoms, the results showed a significant correlation (r = 0.604, P = 0.0006) between t1/2GE measured with both techniques. In the group of healthy children, the results of t1/2GE showed that there was no influence of age, sex, weight, height, and body mass index on GE.

Conclusions:

Normal values for GE of a standardized test milk‐drink in healthy children were determined with the 13C‐ABT. This technique is considered reliable and is well accepted by the patients.
Gallbladder and Pancreas in Henoch‐Schönlein Purpura
Authors: Helbling Rossana , Lava Sebastiano A.G. , Simonetti Giacomo D. , Camozzi Pietro , Bianchetti Mario G. , Milani Gregorio P.
Published: August 2015

Objective:

Involvement of the pancreato‐biliary system has been occasionally noted in Henoch‐Schönlein purpura. Furthermore, cases of this vasculitis syndrome sometimes develop in the context of a viral hepatitis or after hepatitis vaccination.

Methods:

We completed a review of the literature.

Results:

Fifty reports published between 1977 and 2015 were retained for the analysis. A pancreato‐biliary involvement was recognized in 34 individually well‐described patients (♂:♀ = 19:15) with severe abdominal pain: pancreatitis (N = 20), acalculous cholecystitis (N = 11), both pancreatitis and cholecystitis (N = 3). In all of the pancreatitis patients, full recovery occurred (within ⩽3 weeks in three‐fourths of the patients). Cholecystectomy was performed in 8 cholecystitis patients. Seventeen Henoch‐Schönlein patients (♂:♀ = 9:8) were associated with a viral liver disease and 4 (♂:♀ = 1:3) with a hepatitis vaccination. The vasculitis syndrome rapidly remitted in the 7 patients accompanying hepatitis A or E, in 2 patients of hepatitis B, and in the 4 patients preceded by a vaccination. Henoch‐Schönlein purpura seemed to be serious in 5 patients with chronic hepatitis B and in 3 with chronic hepatitis C.

Conclusions:

This analysis indicates that pancreato‐biliary involvement is unusual in Henoch‐Schönlein purpura. This complication deserves consideration in patients with especially severe abdominal pain. Finally, viral hepatitides and hepatitis vaccinations seem to be rare triggers of Henoch‐Schönlein purpura.
Prevalence of Peripheral Eosinophilia at Diagnosis in Children With Inflammatory Bowel Disease
Authors: Sadi Geetanjalee , Yang Qi , Dufault Brenden , Stefanovici Camelia , Stoffman Jayson , El‐Matary Wael
Published: August 2015

Background and Objective:

Inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) encompasses 2 disorders of unknown etiology: Crohn disease (CD) and ulcerative colitis (UC). There has been a continuous search for markers for disease activity. Eosinophils are granulocytic leukocytes that are implicated in the pathogenesis of IBD. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and significance of peripheral eosinophilia (PE) at diagnosis in children with IBD.

Methods:

A comprehensive chart review of all children with diagnosed as having IBD between January 2006 and August 2014 was performed. Patients with PE at diagnosis were compared with those without in relation to disease clinical activity and disease course.

Results:

A total of 109 children (mean age 14.6 ± 2.77, range 4.5–17.9 years, 55 boys) with IBD (68 with CD and 41 with UC) who were studied for a mean duration of 2.82 ± 1.89 (range 0.1–9.2 years) were identified. At diagnosis, 44 (40.4%) children had PE, which was more prevalent in patients with UC compared with those with CD (61.3% vs 36.3%, P < 0.05). At diagnosis, PE was more common in patients with high eosinophilic count in colonic biopsy samples (P < 0.01) and was significantly associated with disease activity as indicated by Pediatric CD Activity Index for children with CD (P < 0.05), Pediatric UC Activity Index for children with UC (P < 0.01).

Conclusions:

PE is a common finding at diagnosis in children with IBD especially in those with UC. Patients with PE at diagnosis are more likely to present with higher clinical activity indices. PE is associated with more eosinophils in colonic biopsy samples.
Insufficient Body Weight of Adults Born With Esophageal Atresia
Authors: Presse Nancy , Taillefer Julie , Maynard Stéphanie , Bouin Mickael
Published: August 2015

Objectives:

Impaired growth has been reported in children born with esophageal atresia (EA). Their nutritional fate at adulthood remains uncertain though. Our objectives were to determine the body mass index (BMI) of adult patients with EA followed up from 2009 to 2011 in the EA clinic of a university‐affiliated hospital in Quebec (Canada), and investigate characteristics associated with underweight.

Methods:

The 40 adult patients with EA attending the clinic were invited to participate. Height and weight were measured and BMI calculated. Patients with BMI < 18.5 kg/m2 were deemed underweight. Patients’ characteristics were obtained, including digestive symptoms and compensatory eating behaviors. Nonparametric tests were used to compare the proportion of underweight among patients with EA with that found in the Quebec population and the characteristics between patients with EA deemed underweight and those with BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2.

Results:

The final sample included 16 women and 21 men, ages 18 to 44 years. Mean BMI was 21.3 ± 4.9 kg/m2 and 24.3% had BMI < 18.5 kg/m2, which is higher than in the Quebec adult population (2.5%, P < 0.001). Compared with patients with EA having BMI ≥ 18.5 kg/m2, underweight patients had more often experienced failure to thrive during their adolescence (55.6% vs 7.4%, P = 0.006), and reported severe postprandial fullness (62.5% vs 21.4%, P = 0.040), the need to eat slowly (87.5% vs 46.4%; P = 0.045), and severe difficulties to swallow dry solid foods (50.0% vs 14.3%, P = 0.054).

Conclusions:

Insufficient body weight is prevalent in this sample of adult patients with EA and could result from digestive symptoms. Follow‐up with a gastroenterologist and nutritional counseling should be considered for adult patients with EA.
Cyproheptadine Use in Children With Functional Gastrointestinal Disorders
Authors: Madani Shailender , Cortes Orlando , Thomas Ronald
Published: August 2015

Objective:

The objective of this study was to evaluate clinical improvement and safety with use of cyproheptadine in functional gastrointestinal disorders (FGIDs) in children.

Methods:

Retrospectively evaluating the efficacy and safety of the use for indications including Rome III–defined FGIDs: functional abdominal pain, functional dyspepsia, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), abdominal migraine, cyclic vomiting syndrome. Response categories were as follows: no improvement group/partial improvement group; requiring intervention, or complete improvement group (CIG); warranting discontinuation; ongoing use; or parental unwillingness to stop medication.

Results:

Among 307 patients, 151 included; 58% girls, ages 1 to 18 years (median 9); 110 (72.8%) reported complete symptom improvement; 41 (27.2%) reported no or partial improvement. Mean initial and final doses in the CIG were 4.85 mg/day (0.14 mg · kg−1 · day−1) and 5.34 mg/day (0.14 mg · kg−1 · day−1), respectively. A total of 102/151 (68%) reported no adverse effects. Adverse effects shown were as sleepiness in 19/151 (13%) and weight gain in 15/151 (10%). Cyproheptadine was effective in improving symptoms of functional abdominal pain, functional dyspepsia, in a relatively larger number of patients. Patients in smaller numbers had significant improvement 13/18 (72%) abdominal migraine, 10/10 (100%) IBS, and 6/8 (75%) cyclic vomiting syndrome. This is the first time report of improvement in IBS. Other pharmacodynamics had been as follows: the lower the body weight, the higher are the odds of no to partial improvement; patients in no improvement group/partial improvement group experience more adverse effects as compared to the CIG; the single best predictor of clinical improvement was body mass index. A 1 unit increase in body mass index with cyproheptadine use increased the odds of clinical improvement by 1.5‐fold (P = 0.01).

Conclusions:

Cyproheptadine effectively improves symptoms of Rome III–defined FGIDs and has a good safety profile when used for these indications.
Cell mechanics in biomedical cavitation
Authors: Wang Qianxi , Manmi Kawa , Liu Kuo-Kang
Published: August 2015

Studies on the deformation behaviours of cellular entities, such as coated microbubbles and liposomes subject to a cavitation flow, become increasingly important for the advancement of ultrasonic imaging and drug delivery. Numerical simulations for bubble dynamics of ultrasound contrast agents based on the boundary integral method are presented in this work. The effects of the encapsulating shell are estimated by adapting Hoff's model used for thin-shell contrast agents. The viscosity effects are estimated by including the normal viscous stress in the boundary condition. In parallel, mechanical models of cell membranes and liposomes as well as state-of-the-art techniques for quantitative measurement of viscoelasticity for a single cell or coated microbubbles are reviewed. The future developments regarding modelling and measurement of the material properties of the cellular entities for cutting-edge biomedical applications are also discussed.
Mechanical homeostasis of a DOPA-enriched biological coating from mussels in response to metal variation
Authors: Schmitt Clemens N. Z. , Winter Alette , Bertinetti Luca , Masic Admir , Strauch Peter , Harrington Matthew J.
Published: August 2015

Protein–metal coordination interactions were recently found to function as crucial mechanical cross-links in certain biological materials. Mussels, for example, use Fe ions from the local environment coordinated to DOPA-rich proteins to stiffen the protective cuticle of their anchoring byssal attachment threads. Bioavailability of metal ions in ocean habitats varies significantly owing to natural and anthropogenic inputs on both short and geological spatio-temporal scales leading to large variations in byssal thread metal composition; however, it is not clear how or if this affects thread performance. Here, we demonstrate that in natural environments mussels can opportunistically replace Fe ions in the DOPA coordination complex with V and Al.In vitroremoval of the native DOPA–metal complexes with ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid and replacement with either Fe or V does not lead to statistically significant changes in cuticle performance, indicating that each metal ion is equally sufficient as a DOPA cross-linking agent, able to account for nearly 85% of the stiffness and hardness of the material. Notably, replacement with Al ions also leads to full recovery of stiffness, but only 82% recovery of hardness. These findings have important implications for the adaptability of this biological material in a dynamically changing and unpredictable habitat.
Genetic structure and diversity of the endangered growling grass frog in a rapidly urbanizing region
Authors: Keely Claire C. , Hale Joshua M. , Heard Geoffrey W. , Parris Kirsten M. , Sumner Joanna , Hamer Andrew J. , Melville Jane
Published: August 2015

Two pervasive and fundamental impacts of urbanization are the loss and fragmentation of natural habitats. From a genetic perspective, these impacts manifest as reduced genetic diversity and ultimately reduced genetic viability. The growling grass frog (Litoria raniformis) is listed as vulnerable to extinction in Australia, and endangered in the state of Victoria. Remaining populations of this species in and around the city of Melbourne are threatened by habitat loss, degradation and fragmentation due to urban expansion. We used mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and microsatellites to study the genetic structure and diversity ofL. raniformisacross Melbourne's urban fringe, and also screened four nuclear gene regions (POMC, RAG-1, Rhod and CRYBA1). The mtDNA and nuclear DNA sequences revealed low levels of genetic diversity throughout remnant populations ofL. raniformis. However, one of the four regions studied, Cardinia, exhibited relatively high genetic diversity and several unique haplotypes, suggesting this region should be recognized as a separate Management Unit. We discuss the implications of these results for the conservation ofL. raniformisin urbanizing landscapes, particularly the potential risks and benefits of translocation, which remains a contentious management approach for this species.
Interpreting melanin-based coloration through deep time: a critical review
Authors: Lindgren Johan , Moyer Alison , Schweitzer Mary H. , Sjövall Peter , Uvdal Per , Nilsson Dan E. , Heimdal Jimmy , Engdahl Anders , Gren Johan A. , Schultz Bo Pagh , Kear Benjamin P.
Published: August 2015

Colour, derived primarily from melanin and/or carotenoid pigments, is integral to many aspects of behaviour in living vertebrates, including social signalling, sexual display and crypsis. Thus, identifying biochromes in extinct animals can shed light on the acquisition and evolution of these biological traits. Both eumelanin and melanin-containing cellular organelles (melanosomes) are preserved in fossils, but recognizing traces of ancient melanin-based coloration is fraught with interpretative ambiguity, especially when observations are based on morphological evidence alone. Assigning microbodies (or, more often reported, their ‘mouldic impressions’) as melanosome traces without adequately excluding a bacterial origin is also problematic because microbes are pervasive and intimately involved in organismal degradation. Additionally, some forms synthesize melanin. In this review, we survey both vertebrate and microbial melanization, and explore the conflicts influencing assessment of microbodies preserved in association with ancient animal soft tissues. We discuss the types of data used to interpret fossil melanosomes and evaluate whether these are sufficient for definitive diagnosis. Finally, we outline an integrated morphological and geochemical approach for detecting endogenous pigment remains and associated microstructures in multimillion-year-old fossils.
Regressive evolution of the arthropod tritocerebral segment linked to functional divergence of the Hox genelabial
Authors: Pechmann Matthias , Schwager Evelyn E. , Turetzek Natascha , Prpic Nikola-Michael
Published: August 2015

The intercalary segment is a limbless version of the tritocerebral segment and is present in the head of all insects, whereas other extant arthropods have retained limbs on their tritocerebral segment (e.g. the pedipalp limbs in spiders). The evolutionary origin of limb loss on the intercalary segment has puzzled zoologists for over a century. Here we show that an intercalary segment-like phenotype can be created in spiders by interfering with the function of the Hox genelabial. This links the origin of the intercalary segment to a functional change inlabial. We show that in the spiderParasteatoda tepidariorumthelabialgene has two functions: one function in head tissue maintenance that is conserved between spiders and insects, and a second function in pedipalp limb promotion and specification, which is only present in spiders. These results imply thatlabialwas originally crucial for limb formation on the tritocerebral segment, but that it has lost this particular subfunction in the insect ancestor, resulting in limb loss on the intercalary segment. Such loss of a subfunction is a way to avoid adverse pleiotropic effects normally associated with mutations in developmental genes, and may thus be a common mechanism to accelerate regressive evolution.
A size threshold governsCaenorhabditis elegansdevelopmental progression
Authors: Uppaluri Sravanti , Brangwynne Clifford P.
Published: August 2015

The growth of organisms from humans to bacteria is affected by environmental conditions. However, mechanisms governing growth and size control are not well understood, particularly in the context of changes in food availability in developing multicellular organisms. Here, we use a novel microfluidic platform to study the impact of diet on the growth and development of the nematodeCaenorhabditis elegans. This device allows us to observe individual worms throughout larval development, quantify their growth as well as pinpoint the moulting transitions marking successive developmental stages. Under conditions of low food availability, worms grow very slowly, but do not moult until they have achieved a threshold size. The time spent in larval stages can be extended by over an order of magnitude, in agreement with a simple threshold size model. Thus, a critical worm size appears to trigger developmental progression, and may contribute to prolonged lifespan under dietary restriction.
Introgressive hybridization facilitates adaptive divergence in a recent radiation of monkeyflowers
Authors: Stankowski Sean , Streisfeld Matthew A.
Published: August 2015

A primary goal in evolutionary biology is to identify the historical events that have facilitated the origin and spread of adaptations. When these adaptations also lead to reproductive isolation, we can learn about the evolutionary mechanisms contributing to speciation. We reveal the complex history of the geneMaMyb2in shaping flower colour divergence within a recent radiation of monkeyflowers. In theMimulus aurantiacusspecies complex, red-floweredM. a.ssp. puniceusand yellow-floweredM. a.ssp.australisare partially isolated because of differences in pollinator preferences. Phylogenetic analyses based on genome-wide variation across the complex suggest two origins of red flowers from a yellow-flowered ancestor: one inM. a.ssp. puniceusand one inM. a.ssp.flemingii. However, in both cases, red flowers are caused bycis-regulatory mutations in the geneMaMyb2. Although this could be due to distinct mutations in each lineage, we show that the red allele inM. a.ssp.puniceusdid not evolvede novoor exist as standing variation in its yellow-flowered ancestor. Rather, our results suggest that a single redMaMyb2allele evolved during the radiation ofM. aurantiacusthat was subsequently transferred to the yellow-flowered ancestor ofM. a.ssp.puniceusvia introgressive hybridization. Because gene flow is still possible among taxa, we conclude that introgressive hybridization can be a potent driver of adaptation at the early stages of divergence that can contribute to the origins of biodiversity.
Ecology and evolution of rabies virus in Europe
Authors: Bourhy Hervé , Kissi Bachir , Audry Laurent , Smreczak Marcin , Sadkowska-Todys Malgorzata , Kulonen Katariina , Tordo Noël , Zmudzinski Jan F. , Holmes Edward C.
Published: August 2015

The evolution of rabies viruses of predominantly European origin was studied by comparing nucleotide sequences of the nucleoprotein and glycoprotein genes, and by typing isolates using RFLP. Phylogenetic analysis of the gene sequence data revealed a number of distinct groups, each associated with a particular geographical area. Such a pattern suggests that rabies virus has spread westwards and southwards across Europe during this century, but that physical barriers such as the Vistula river in Poland have enabled localized evolution. During this dispersal process, two species jumps took place – one into red foxes and another into raccoon dogs, although it is unclear whether virus strains are preferentially adapted to particular animal species or whether ecological forces explain the occurrence of the phylogenetic groups.
Replication-deficient recombinant adenoviruses expressing the human immunodeficiency virus Env antigen can induce both humoral and CTL immune responses in mice
Authors: Bruce Christine B. , Akrigg Alan , Sharpe Sally A. , Hanke Tomáš , Wilkinson Gavin W. G. , Cranage Martin P.
Published: August 2015

An effective vaccine against infection with human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) is thought likely to require both a humoral and a CTL immune response. A non-replicating adenovirus vector system has been developed that can induce both a humoral and CTL response to HIV-1 envelope in mice. It is demonstrated that the stimulatory tat/rev 5′ splice-donor site sequence is required for efficient expression of HIV-1 env by this adenovirus vector system. rev can be provided bicistronically or in trans to result in good expression of env in vitro. A humoral immune response was detected after two immunizations with a bicistronic recombinant adenovirus (RAd142). The response was dose dependent, 5×107 p.f.u. inducing a response in some, but not all, animals and 1×108 p.f.u. giving a consistent antibody response. However, CTLs were induced by the lower dose of virus and after only one immunization with the higher dose. A positive CTL response was also seen consistently when the two monocistronic adenoviruses (RAd501 expressing env and RAd46 expressing rev) were given together, although two immunizations were required to give approximately the same level of response as seen with the bicistronic virus. RAd501 on its own also gave a low CTL response when two immunizations were given. It is suggested that a lower level of env expression is required to produce a CTL response than a humoral response and that this non- replicating adenovirus vector is a good system for inducing CTL.
Hepatitis B viral core proteins with an N-terminal extension can assemble into core-like particles but cannot be enveloped
Authors: Hui Eric Ka-Wai , Yi Yong Shyang , Lo Szecheng J.
Published: August 2015

The structure of hepatitis B virus (HBV) nucleocapsids has been revealed in great detail by cryoelectron microscopy. How nucleocapsids interact with surface antigens to form enveloped virions remains unknown. In this study, core mutants with N-terminal additions were created to address two questions: (1) can these mutant core proteins still form nucleocapsids and (2) if so, can the mutant nucleocapsids interact with surface antigens to form virion-like particles. One plasmid encoding an extra stretch of 23 aa, including six histidine residues, fused to the N terminus of the core protein (designated HisC183) was expressed inEscherichia coliand detected by Western blot. CsCl gradient and electron microscopy analyses indicated that HisC183 could self-assemble into nucleocapsids. When HisC183 or another similar N-terminal fusion core protein (designated FlagC183) was co-expressed with a core-negative plasmid in human hepatoma cells, both mutant core proteins self-assembled into nucleocapsids. These particles also retained kinase activity. Using an endogenous polymerase assay, a fill-in HBV DNA labelled with isotope was obtained from intracellular nucleocapsids formed by mutant cores. In contrast, no such signal was detected from the transfection medium, which was consistent with PCR and Southern blot analyses. Results indicate that core mutants with N-terminal extensions can form nucleocapsids, but are blocked during the envelopment process and cannot form secreted virions. The mutant nucleocapsids generated from this work should facilitate further study on how nucleocapsids interact with surface antigens.
An African swine fever virus ORF with similarity to C-type lectins is non-essential for growth in swine macrophages in vitro and for virus virulence in domestic swine
Authors: Neilan J. G. , Borca M. V. , Lu Z. , Kutish G. F. , Kleiboeker S. B. , Carrillo C. , Zsak L. , Rock D. L.
Published: August 2015

An African swine fever virus (ASFV) ORF, 8CR, with similarity to the C-type lectin family of adhesion proteins has been described in the pathogenic isolate Malawi Lil-20/1. The similarity of 8CR to cellular and poxvirus genes associated with cell adhesion, cell recognition and virus infectivity suggested that 8CR may be of significance to ASFV–host cell interactions. Sequence analysis of the 8CR ORF from additional pathogenic ASFV isolates demonstrated conservation among isolates from both pig and tick sources. Northern blot analysis demonstrated 8CR mRNA transcription late in the virus replication cycle. A Malawi Lil-20/1 8CR deletion mutant (Δ8CR) was constructed to analyse 8CR function further. The growth characteristics in vitro of Δ8CR in porcine macrophage cell cultures were identical to those observed for parental virus. In domestic swine, Δ8CR exhibited an unaltered parental Malawi Lil- 20/1 disease and virulence phenotype. Thus, although well conserved among pathogenic ASFV field isolates, 8CR is non-essential for growth in porcine macrophages in vitro and for virus virulence in domestic swine.
The rat cytomegalovirus R32 gene encodes a virion-associated protein that elicits a strong humoral immune response in infected rats
Authors: Beuken Erik , Grauls Gert , Bruggeman Cathrien A. , Vink Cornelis
Published: August 2015

A gene of rat cytomegalovirus (RCMV), designated R32, has been identified that encodes a homologue of the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) pp150 (ppUL32) major tegument phosphoprotein. The R32 ORF has the capacity to encode a 667 amino acid polypeptide (pR32) with a calculated molecular mass of 73 kDa. The predicted amino acid sequence of pR32 shows similarity to that of polypeptides predicted to be encoded by the HCMV UL32, murine cytomegalovirus M32 and human herpesvirus types 6 and 7 U11 genes. The R32 gene is transcribed as a 2·5 kb mRNA during the late phase of RCMV infection in rat embryo fibroblasts in vitro. To study expression of the pR32 protein in vitro and in vivo, a rabbit polyclonal antiserum was raised against a recombinant protein that comprised amino acids 252–522 of pR32. By using this antiserum, pR32 could be detected predominantly in the cytoplasm of RCMV-infected fibroblasts at 24 and 48 h post-infection in vitro. The pR32 protein was also detected within virions isolated from the culture medium of RCMV- infected cells. Expression of pR32 in vivo was observed within the cytoplasm of salivary gland epithelial cells of RCMV-infected rats. In addition, recombinant pR32 was found to react with sera from rats that were previously infected with RCMV, whereas reactivity was not seen with sera from mock-infected rats. Together, these findings indicate that RCMV pR32 represents the homologue of HCMV ppUL32, both in primary structure and in function.