bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bony findings detected by MRI may reflect the pathophysiology of osteoarthritis with thumb carpometacarpal joint pain
Authors: Komatsu Masatoshi , Kamimura Mikio , Nakamura Yukio , Mukaiyama Keijiro , Ikegami Shota , Hayashi Masanori , Uchiyama Shigeharu , Kato Hiroyuki
Published: November 2015

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) is the most common skeletal disease worldwide. Although thumb carpametacarpal joint (CMJ) OA is also frequently encountered, the etiologies remain largely unknown.

Method

We analyzed 20 patients who had thumb CMJ OA with accompanying joint pain and categorized a total of 37 thumbs according to the Eaton and Littler staging system.

Results

In patients with advanced OA, bone alterations as detected by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) were observed in almost all of the painful joints. The frequency of bone alterations in the thumb CMJ increased with OA severity. In contrast, MRI revealed no bone alterations in thumbs with no pain and less pain in bilateral thumb basal pain, even in radiographically advanced OA.

Conclusions

While the incidence of bone cysts in the CMJ was higher with OA staging, OA severity had no apparent correlation with pain. Thus, it is possible that the cause of thumb CMJ pain in advanced OA is bone alterations.
The Dietary Flavonoid Rhamnetin Inhibits Both Inflammation and Excitotoxicity During Ethanol Withdrawal in Rat Organotypic Hippocampal Slice Cultures
Authors: Lutz Joseph A. , Carter Megan , Fields Logan , Barron Susan , Littleton John M.
Published: November 2015

Background

Ethanol (EtOH) causes neurotoxicity via several mechanisms including neuroinflammation (during EtOH exposure), and excitotoxicity (during EtOH withdrawal [EWD]). Alpha7 nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR) selective agonists have the potential to reduce both. The aim of this study was to evaluate the anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective potential of rhamnetin, a dietary flavonoid with alpha7 nAChR selective activity, in an in vitro model of EtOH‐induced neurotoxicity.

Methods

The anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective properties of rhamnetin were assessed in neonatal organotypic hippocampal slice cultures undergoing EWD (or not) and challenged with N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate (NMDA) and/or lipopolysaccharide (LPS). Neurotoxicity was determined using propidium iodide uptake, and the inflammatory response was evaluated by measuring the release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐alpha (NO; quantified by ELISA) and nitric oxide (quantified by the Griess reaction) into culture media.

Results

As predicted, rhamnetin reduced LPS‐induced release of TNF‐alpha and NO both under control conditions and during EWD. Additionally, rhamnetin had no effect on NMDA‐induced neurotoxicity under control conditions, but significantly reduced NMDA toxicity during EWD. In contrast, rhamnetin had no effect on neurotoxicity induced by NMDA and LPS combined despite reducing TNF‐alpha and NO levels under these conditions.

Conclusions

Rhamnetin is anti‐inflammatory and neuroprotective during EWD and therefore has potential value in treating neurotoxicity caused by EtOH.
Predicting the development of liver cirrhosis by simple modelling in patients with chronic hepatitis C
Authors: Lens S. , Torres F. , Puigvehi M. , Mariño Z. , Londoño M.‐C. , Martinez S. M. , García‐Juárez I. , García‐Criado Á. , Gilabert R. , Bru C. , Solà R. , Sanchez‐Tapias J. M. , Carrión J. A. , Forns X.
Published: November 2015

Background

Data are scarce on the natural history of chronic hepatitis C (CHC) in patients with mild hepatitis C who did not respond to anti‐viral therapy.

Aim

To predict the risk of progression to cirrhosis, identifying patients with the more urgent need for therapy with effective anti‐virals.

Methods

A cohort of 1289 noncirrhotic CHC patients treated with interferon‐based therapy between 1990 and 2004 in two referral hospitals were followed up for a median of 12 years.

Results

Overall, SVR was achieved in 46.6% of patients. Data from a randomly split sample (n = 832) was used to estimate a model to predict outcomes. Among nonresponders (n = 444), cirrhosis developed in 123 (28%) patients. In this group, the 3, 5 and 10‐year cumulative probabilities of cirrhosis were 4%, 7% and 22%, respectively, compared to <1% in the SVR‐group (P < 0.05). Baseline factors independently associated with progression to cirrhosis in nonresponders were: fibrosis ≥F2, age >40 years, AST >100 IU/L, GGT >40 IU/L. Three logistic regression models that combined these simple variables were highly accurate in predicting the individual risk of developing cirrhosis with areas under the receiving operating characteristic curves (AUC) at 5, 7 and 10 years of ~0.80. The reproducibility of the models in the validation cohort (n = 457, nonresponders = 244), was consistently high.

Conclusions

Modelling based on simple laboratory and clinical data can accurately identify the individual risk of progression to cirrhosis in nonresponder patients with chronic hepatitis C, becoming a very helpful tool to prioritise the start of oral anti‐viral therapy in clinical practice.
Pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of everolimus in patients with renal angiomyolipoma and tuberous sclerosis complex or lymphangioleiomyomatosis
Authors: Budde Klemens , Zonnenberg Bernard A. , Frost Michael , Cheung Wing , Urva Shweta , Brechenmacher Thomas , Stein Karen , Chen David , Kingswood John Christopher , Bissler John J.
Published: November 2015

Aims

The purpose was to determine the exposure−response relationship of everolimus in patients with angiomyolipoma from the EXIST‐2 trial and to analyze the correlation between exposure and plasma concentrations of angiogenic biomarkers in these patients.

Methods

One hundred and eighteen patients with angiomyolipoma associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) or sporadic lymphangioleiomyomatosis (sLAM) were randomly assigned 2 : 1 to receive everolimus 10 mg (n = 79) or placebo (n = 39) once daily. Blood samples for determining everolimus concentration were collected at weeks 2, 4, 12, 24 and 48 during double‐blind treatment. Plasma samples for biomarker analysis were collected at baseline and weeks 4, 12, 24, 36, 48 and at the end of treatment. Concentrations of eight angiogenic biomarkers associated with tumour growth were determined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA).

Results

Peak and trough concentrations of everolimus in blood remained stable over time and similar to those reported in other indications. Substantial pharmacodynamic effects were observed in the everolimus, but not placebo, arm for three biomarkers: After 24 weeks of treatment, reduction of vascular endothelial growth factor D (VEGF‐D) and collagen type IV (COL‐IV) (mean fold‐changes with 95% confidence intervals [CI] were 0.36 [0.33, 0.40], and 0.54 [0.51, 0.57], respectively, P < 0.001 for both), along with increased VEGF‐A (mean fold‐change of 1.59 [1.39, 1.80], P < 0.001), were seen. Furthermore, baseline VEGF‐D and COL‐IV levels were associated with angiomyolipoma size at baseline and with angiomyolipoma response to everolimus.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that plasma angiogenic markers may provide an objective measure of patient response to everolimus.
Delineating outcomes of patients with diffuse large b cell lymphoma using the national comprehensive cancer network‐international prognostic index and positron emission tomography‐defined remission status; a population‐based analysis
Authors: Bishton Mark J. , Hughes Simon , Richardson Faith , James Eleanor , Bessell Eric , Sovani Vishakha , Ganatra Rakesh , Haynes Andrew P. , McMillan Andrew K. , Fox Christopher P.
Published: November 2015

The recently devised National Comprehensive Cancer Network International Prognostic Index (NCCN‐IPI) appears superior to the revised IPI (R‐IPI) in delineating outcome in diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma. We examined the outcome of a population‐based cohort of 223 consecutive patients treated with R‐CHOP (rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, prednisolone) or R‐CHOP‐like immuno‐chemotherapy between January 2005 and December 2011 by both the NCCN‐IPI and R‐IPI, and further stratified outcome by the achievement of both computerized tomography (CT) and positron emission tomography (PET)‐CT complete remission (CR), with the latter reassessed using blinded central review by an independent nuclear medicine and radiology specialist. The NCCN‐IPI was superior to the R‐IPI in identifying patients at very high risk of systemic and/or central nervous system relapse. Notably, both the NCCN‐IPI and the R‐IPI remained strongly predictive of relapse irrespective of CT or PET‐defined remission status following R‐CHOP. Patients with high‐risk NCCN‐IPI scores (≥6) have a dismal outcome following R‐CHOP therapy regardless of PET‐defined response to R‐CHOP. Moreover, such patients appear refractory to salvage chemotherapy and thus require alternative therapeutic approaches, although age and performance status may, for many patients, preclude the safe delivery of a primary intensified regimen. By contrast, patients with NCCN‐IPI 1–5 who achieve PET‐CR following R‐CHOP have excellent outcomes and may merit reduced follow up frequency.
Changes in wage inequality in Canada: An interprovincial perspective
Authors: Fortin Nicole M. , Lemieux Thomas
Published: November 2015

This paper uses the Canadian Labour Force Survey to understand why the level and dispersion of wages have evolved differently across provinces from 1997 to 2013. The faster increase in the level of wages and the decline in wage dispersion in Newfoundland, Saskatchewan and Alberta are the starkest interprovincial differences. We find that they are accounted for by the growth in the extractive resources sectors, which benefited less‐educated and younger workers the most. Increases in minimum wages since 2005 are found to be the main reason why wages at the very bottom grew more than those in the middle of the distribution.
“Let's Talk about the Institution”: Same‐Sex Common‐Law Partners Negotiating Marriage Equality and Relationship Legitimacy
Authors: Lyon Katherine A. , Frohard‐Dourlent Hélène
Published: November 2015

The 2005 Canada‐wide legalization of same‐sex marriage provided same‐sex couples with access to an institution they had previous been excluded from. Yet not all couples choose to marry. In this paper, we examine why this is the case, considering the role of personal, political, and historical factors. We draw on 22 interviews with people in common‐law same‐sex relationships in Toronto to examine how they understand their relationship within the new context of marriage equality. We find that participants feel they are held accountable to marriage as a default relationship legitimacy norm, indicating that this new institutional access is accompanied by a set of social expectations. Despite their awareness of the need to navigate a social context favoring marriage, participants individualize their relationship decisions as personal rather than political. Participants often contradict themselves as they articulate what marriage means to them, suggesting that, in this period of legal and social transition, people are negotiating multiple meanings, societal messages, and traditions when it comes to making sense of their relationship. We discuss the implications of these findings for LGBQ activism and the framing of sexuality‐based inequalities in Canadian society.
In Vitro Evaluation of the Allergic Potential of Antibacterial Peptides: Camel and Citropin
Authors: Pikuła Michał , Zieliński Maciej , Specjalski Krzysztof , Barańska‐Rybak Wioletta , Dawgul Małgorzata , Langa Paulina , Jassem Ewa , Kamysz Wojciech , Trzonkowski Piotr
Published: November 2015

Peptide‐based drugs are promising group of compounds which are characterized by specificity to their in vivo targets and high potency of action (antineoplastic, immunoregulatory, antibacterial). The peptides, however, involve a relatively high risk of allergic reactions that are not predictable on the basis of their sequence and chemical properties. In this study, peripheral blood was obtained from 53 patients including 38 hypersensitive patients and 15 control patients. Basophil activation stimulated by two antibacterial peptides (camel, citropin 1.1), and acetylsalicylic acid was assessed by means of BAT (basophil activation test). Basophil activation stimulated by camel occurred in 7 of 38 patients with hypersensitivity (18.42%) as well as in 2 of 15 control patients (13.33%). Basophils were activated by citropin 1.1 in 7 of 38 hypersensitive patients (18.42%) and in none of the control patients. Using the Structural Database of Allergenic Proteins, we confirmed that the examined peptides share some structural similarities with common environmental allergens. Therefore, the cross‐reactivity between potentially present anti‐allergen IgE with examined peptides cannot be excluded. Our study proved that BAT, together with other biological tests and specific databases of allergenic compounds, may serve as an initial selection of new active peptides and proteins.
Two sensitizing oxidation products of p‐phenylenediamine patch tested in patients allergic to p‐phenylenediamine
Authors: Young Ewa , Zimerson Erik , Bruze Magnus , Svedman Cecilia
Published: November 2015

Background

The results from a previous study indicated the presence of several possible sensitizers formed during oxidation of the potent sensitizer p‐phenylenediamine (PPD) to which PPD‐sensitized patients might react, in various patterns.

Objectives

To extract and analyse a yellow spot from a thin‐layer chromatogram with oxidized PPD, to which 6 of 14 (43%) PPD‐positive patients had reacted in a previous study, in order to identify potential sensitizer(s) and to patch test this/these substance(s) in the 14 PPD‐positive patients.

Methods

The yellow spot was extracted from a thin‐layer chromatogram of oxidized PPD, and two substances, suspected to be allergens, were identified by analysis with gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GCMS). The 14 PPD‐positive patients, who had been previously tested with the thin‐layer chromatogram of oxidized PPD, participated in the investigation, and were tested with dilutions of the two substances.

Results

GCMS analysis identified 4‐nitroaniline and 4,4′‐azodianiline in the yellow spot. Of the 14 PPD‐positive test patients, 5 (36%) reacted to 4‐nitroaniline and 9 (64%) reacted to 4,4′‐azodianiline.

Conclusion

The results show that 4‐nitroaniline and 4,4′‐azodianiline, formed during oxidation of PPD, are potent sensitizers. PPD‐sensitized patients react to a high extent to concentrations equimolar to PPD of 4‐nitroaniline and 4,4′‐azodianiline.
End‐exercise ΔHHb/ΔVO2 and post‐exercise local oxygen availability in relation to exercise intensity
Authors: Stöcker F. , Von Oldershausen C. , Paternoster F. K. , Schulz T. , Oberhoffer R.
Published: November 2015

Increased local blood supply is thought to be one of the mechanisms underlying oxidative adaptations to interval training regimes. The relationship of exercise intensity with local blood supply and oxygen availability has not been sufficiently evaluated yet. The aim of this study was to examine the effect of six different intensities (40–90% peak oxygen uptake, VO2peak) on relative changes in oxygenated, deoxygenated and total haemoglobin (ΔO2Hb, ΔHHb, ΔTHb) concentration after exercise as well as end‐exercise ΔHHb/ΔVO2 as a marker for microvascular O2 distribution. Seventeen male subjects performed an experimental protocol consisting of 3 min cycling bouts at each exercise intensity in randomized order, separated by 5 min rests. ΔO2Hb and ΔHHb were monitored with near‐infrared spectroscopy of the vastus lateralis muscle, and VO2 was assessed. ΔHHb/ΔVO2 increased significantly from 40% to 60% VO2peak and decreased from 60% to 90% VO2peak. Post‐exercise ΔTHb and ΔO2Hb showed an overshoot in relation to pre‐exercise values, which was equal after 40–60% VO2peak and rose significantly thereafter. A plateau was reached following exercise at ≥80% VO2peak. The results suggest that there is an increasing mismatch of local O2 delivery and utilization during exercise up to 60% VO2peak. This insufficient local O2 distribution is progressively improved above that intensity. Further, exercise intensities of ≥80% VO2peak induce highest local post‐exercise O2 availability. These effects are likely due to improved microvascular perfusion by enhanced vasodilation, which could be mediated by higher lactate production and the accompanying acidosis.
Concocting that Magic Elixir: Successful Grant Application Writing in Dissemination and Implementation Research
Authors: Brownson Ross C. , Colditz Graham A. , Dobbins Maureen , Emmons Karen M. , Kerner Jon F. , Padek Margaret , Proctor Enola K. , Stange Kurt C.
Published: November 2015

Background

This paper reports core competencies for dissemination and implementation (D&I) grant application writing and provides tips for writing a successful proposal.

Methods

Two related phases were used to collect the data: a card sorting process among D&I researchers and an expert review among a smaller set of researchers. Card sorting was completed by 123 respondents. In the second phase, a series of grant application writing tips were developed based on the combined 170 years of grant review experience of the writing team.

Results

The card sorting resulted in 12 core competencies for D&I grant application writing that covered the main sections in a grant application to the US National Institutes of Health: (a) specific aims that provide clear rationale, objectives, and an overview of the research plan; (b) significance that frames and justifies the importance of a D&I question; (c) innovation that articulates novel products and new knowledge; and (d) approach that uses a relevant D&I model, addresses measurement and the D&I context, and includes an analysis plan well‐tied to the aims and measures.

Conclusions

Writing a successful D&I grant application is a skill that can be learned with experience and attention to the core competencies articulated in this paper.
Why is the Labor Share so Low in Turkey?
Authors: Ünveren Burak , Sunal Seçkin
Published: November 2015

The labor share in the income of Turkey is confoundingly low according to official figures. By comparison, the average labor share of OECD members is two times higher than that of Turkey. Is this because labor productivity is low, or is it because imperfect competition, which amplifies profits, is overwhelmingly high in Turkey? We estimate preferences, technology parameters, and price markup in a dynamic general equilibrium model to answer this question using GMM. To our surprise, the results suggest that the crucial factor suppressing the share of labor in Turkey is high price markup, and the role of low productivity of labor is negligible. The results are robust to the use of different instrumental variables.
Conflicts and natural disaster management: a comparative study of flood control in the Republic of Korea and the United States
Authors: Chung Jibum
Published: November 2015

The purpose of this research is to analyse the conflicts that arise among major stakeholders during the process of disaster management and to suggest policy recommendations for improving disaster management systems. It describes several important conflict cases that have occurred among major stakeholders, such as governments, private‐sector entities, and non‐governmental organisations, during natural disaster management. In addition, it probes the similarities and the differences between such conflicts in the Republic of Korea and the United States. The differences between them may originate from a range of factors, such as the disaster itself, cultural features, management practices, and government organisation. However, the conflicts also are very similar in some ways, as the motivations and the behaviour of stakeholders during a disaster are alike in both countries. Based on this comparison, the study presents some common and important implications for successful disaster management practices in Korea and the US, as well as in many other nations around the world.
Disaster preparedness in a complex urban system: the case of Kathmandu Valley, Nepal
Authors: Carpenter Samuel , Grünewald François
Published: November 2015

The city is a growing centre of humanitarian concern. Yet, aid agencies, governments and donors are only beginning to comprehend the scale and, importantly, the complexity of the humanitarian challenge in urban areas. Using the case study of the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal, this paper examines the analytical utility of recent research on complex urban systems in strengthening scholarly understanding of urban disaster risk management, and outlines its operational relevance to disaster preparedness. Drawing on a literature review and 26 interviews with actors from across the Government of Nepal, the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, non‐governmental organisations, United Nations agencies, and at‐risk communities, the study argues that complexity can be seen as a defining feature of urban systems and the risks that confront them. To manage risk in these systems effectively, preparedness efforts must be based on adaptive and agile approaches, incorporating the use of network analysis, partnerships, and new technologies.
Relationship between HbA1c and cancer in people with or without diabetes: a systematic review
Authors: Hope C. , Robertshaw A. , Cheung K. L. , Idris I. , English E.
Published: November 2015

Aim

To identify the relationship between HbA1c and cancers in people with or without diabetes.

Background

Cancer is a major public health problem, accounting for 8.2 million deaths worldwide in 2012. HbA1c level has been associated with the risk of developing certain cancers, although the existing evidence is conflicting.

Methods

EMBASE, MEDLINE, CINAHL and the Cochrane Library were searched. Eligible articles included randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, case–control studies, systematic reviews and meta‐analyses. Participants of either sex, with or without Type 1 or 2 diabetes, were included. The studies were assessed using the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network (SIGN) criteria by two independent assessors. No meta‐analysis was performed because of the heterogeneity of results.

Results

A total of 19 studies from 1006 met the inclusion criteria, of which 14 were cohort studies and five were nested case–control studies. Eight studies investigated outcomes for all cancer sites. Four of these studies reported that higher HbA1c levels were associated with higher incidence and/or mortality risk for all cancers. One study observed a U‐shaped relationship between HbA1c and cancer incidence and mortality. Increasing HbA1c levels were associated with increasing risk of developing colorectal, pancreatic, respiratory and female genital tract cancers. No increased risk was observed for breast cancer, gastrointestinal or urological malignancies.

Conclusion

HbA1c appears to be associated with cancer incidence and/or cancer mortality, but further studies are needed to fully understand the complex relationship between HbA1c and cancer.
Investment risk in bioenergy crops
Authors: Skevas Theodoros , Swinton Scott M. , Tanner Sophia , Sanford Gregg , Thelen Kurt D.
Published: November 2015

Perennial, cellulosic bioenergy crops represent a risky investment. The potential for adoption of these crops depends not only on mean net returns, but also on the associated probability distributions and on the risk preferences of farmers. Using 6‐year observed crop yield data from highly productive and marginally productive sites in the southern Great Lakes region and assuming risk neutrality, we calculate expected breakeven biomass yields and prices compared to corn (Zea mays L.) as a benchmark. Next we develop Monte Carlo budget simulations based on stochastic crop prices and yields. The crop yield simulations decompose yield risk into three components: crop establishment survival, time to maturity, and mature yield variability. Results reveal that corn with harvest of grain and 38% of stover (as cellulosic bioenergy feedstock) is both the most profitable and the least risky investment option. It dominates all perennial systems considered across a wide range of farmer risk preferences. Although not currently attractive for profit‐oriented farmers who are risk neutral or risk averse, perennial bioenergy crops have a higher potential to successfully compete with corn under marginal crop production conditions.
Pain following foraminal enlargement in mandibular molars with necrosis and apical periodontitis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Saini H. R. , Sangwan P. , Sangwan A.
Published: November 2015

Aim

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to evaluate the effect of foraminal enlargement during chemomechanical root canal preparation on postoperative pain.

Methodology

Seventy mandibular first molars with asymptomatic pulp necrosis and chronic apical periodontitis were randomized into two groups – foraminal enlargement (FE) and conventional nonforaminal enlargement (NFE). Canals were prepared according to the respective protocols, and the teeth were restored temporarily. Postoperatively, the patients were prescribed ibuprofen 400 mg, to be taken if required. Pain experience and analgesic intake were recorded for 7 days following chemomechanical preparation. The data were analysed using Mann–Whitney U‐test and chi‐square tests.

Results

Pain experience was higher with foraminal enlargement than when using a conventional technique. A significant difference was observed in postoperative pain during the first 4 days and the sixth day (P < 0.05), with greater pain in the FE as compared to the NFE group. There was no significant difference in prevalence of analgesic intake and number of doses between the experimental groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Enlargement of the apical foramen during root canal treatment increased the incidence and intensity of postoperative pain.
Novel mutations in the genes TGM1 and ALOXE3 underlying autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis
Authors: Ullah Rahim , Ansar Muhammad , Durrani Zaka Ullah , Lee Kwanghyuk , Santos‐Cortez Regie Lyn P. , Muhammad Dost , Ali Mahboob , Zia Muhammad , Ayub Muhammad , Khan Suliman , Smith Josh D. , Nickerson Deborah A. , Shendure Jay , Bamshad Michael , Leal Suzanne M. , Ahmad Wasim
Published: November 2015

Background

Ichthyoses are clinically characterized by scaling or hyperkeratosis of the skin or both. It can be an isolated condition limited to the skin or appear secondarily with involvement of other cutaneous or systemic abnormalities.

Methods

The present study investigated clinical and molecular characterization of three consanguineous families (A, B, C) segregating two different forms of autosomal recessive congenital ichthyosis (ARCI). Linkage in three consanguineous families (A, B, C) segregating two different forms of ARCI was searched by typing microsatellite and single nucleotide polymorphism marker analysis. Sequencing of the two genes TGM1 and ALOXE3 was performed by the dideoxy chain termination method.

Results

Genome‐wide linkage analysis established linkage in family A to TGM1 gene on chromosome 14q11 and in families B and C to ALOXE3 gene on chromosome 17p13. Subsequently, sequencing of these genes using samples from affected family members led to the identification of three novel mutations: a missense variant p.Trp455Arg in TGM1 (family A); a nonsense variant p.Arg140* in ALOXE3 (family B); and a complex rearrangement in ALOXE3 (family C).

Conclusion

The present study further extends the spectrum of mutations in the two genes involved in causing ARCI. Characterizing the clinical spectrum resulting from mutations in the TGM1 and ALOXE3 genes will improve diagnosis and may direct clinical care of the family members.
Enhanced O2 Flux of CaTi0.85Fe0.15O3−δ Based Membranes by Mn Doping
Authors: Polfus Jonathan M. , Xing Wen , Riktor Marit , Sunding Martin F. , Dahl Paul Inge , Hanetho Sidsel M. , Mokkelbost Tommy , Larring Yngve , Fontaine Marie‐Laure , Bredesen Rune
Published: November 2015

Dense symmetric membranes of CaTi0.85−xFe0.15MnxO3−δ (x = 0.1, 0.15, 0.25, 0.4) are investigated in order to determine the optimal Mn dopant content with respect to highest O2 flux. O2 permeation measurements are performed as function of temperature between 700°C–1000°C and as function of the feed side ranging between 0.01 and 1 bar. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy is utilized to elucidate the charge state of Mn, and synchrotron radiation X‐ray powder diffraction (SR‐XPD) is employed to investigate the structure symmetry and cell volume of the perovskite phase at temperatures up to 800°C. The highest O2 permeability is found for x = 0.25 over the whole temperature and ranges, followed by x = 0.4 above 850°C. The O2 permeability for x = 0.25 reaches 0.01 mL(STP) min−1 cm−1 at 925°C with 0.21 bar feed side and Ar sweep gas. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy indicates that the charge state of Mn changes from approx. +3 to +4 when x > 0.1, which implies that Mn mainly improves electronic conductivity for x > 0.1. The cell volume is found to decrease linearly with Mn content, which coincides with an increase in the activation energy of O2 permeability. These results are consistent with the interpretation of the temperature and dependency of O2 permeation. The sintering behavior and thermal expansion properties are investigated by dilatometry, which show improved sinterability with increasing Mn content and that the thermal expansion coefficient decreases from 12.4 to 11.9 × 10−6 K−1 for x = 0 and x = 0.25, respectively.
Ga–Sb–S Chalcogenide Glasses for Mid‐Infrared Applications
Authors: Yang Anping , Zhang Mingjie , Li Lei , Wang Yuwei , Zhang Bin , Yang Zhiyong , Tang Dingyuan
Published: November 2015

In this study, a novel chalcogenide glass system, Ga–Sb–S, is reported. The glass‐forming ability, the physical properties, and the structure are investigated; and the potential applications of the glasses are evaluated. The compositions consisting of ~3%–10% Ga, ~29%–37% Sb, and ~57%–63% S can form glasses. The glasses have a wide transparent window of ~0.8–14 μm, high linear refractive indices of ~2.62–2.70 (@10 μm), high third‐order nonlinear refractive indices of ~12.4 × 10−14 cm2/W (@ 1.55 μm), low phonon energy, and large rare earth solubility. These favorable properties make them promising materials for mid‐infrared applications such as thermal imaging, nonlinear optics, and lasers.
Extracted tooth roots used for lateral alveolar ridge augmentation: a proof‐of‐concept study
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Golubovic Vladimir , Becker Kathrin , Mihatovic Ilja
Published: November 2015

Objectives

To assess the efficacy of tooth roots used as autografts for lateral ridge augmentation and two‐stage early osseointegration of titanium implants.

Material & Methods

The maxillary premolars were randomly assigned to either endodontic therapy (PM‐E) or were left untreated (PM‐C). Retromolar cortical autogenous bone (AB) blocks served as controls. PM‐E/PM‐C and AB were used for ridge augmentation at chronic‐type defects in both lower quadrants (n = 8 foxhounds). At 12 weeks, titanium implants were inserted and left to heal for another 3 weeks. Histological analyses considered crestal ridge width (CW); augmented area (AA) and bone‐to‐implant contact (BIC).

Results

Both PM and AB grafts (exposures: AB = 3; PM‐C = 4; PM‐E = 7) were gradually involved in the bone remodelling process and associated with a replacement resorption. Median CW (PM‐C: 2.70 versus AB: 3.30 mm; PM‐E: 2.96 versus AB: 3.35 mm), AA (PM‐C: 7.55 versus AB: 8.56 mm2; PM‐E: 11.20 versus AB: 6.60 mm2) and BIC (PM‐C: 36.96 mm versus AB: 64.10%; PM‐E: 50.79 versus AB: 32.53%) values were comparable in both PM and AB groups (p > 0.05, respectively).

Conclusions

Extracted tooth roots revealed a structural and biological potential to serve as an alternative autograft to autogenous bone. A higher exposure rate may be expected when using endodontically treated teeth.
Research Review: Do motor deficits during development represent an endophenotype for schizophrenia? A meta‐analysis
Authors: Burton Birgitte Klee , Hjorthøj Carsten , Jepsen Jens Richardt , Thorup Anne , Nordentoft Merete , Plessen Kerstin J.
Published: November 2015

Background

Early detection of schizophrenia risk is a critical goal in the field. Endophenotypes in children to relatives of affected individuals may contribute to this early detection. One of the lowest cost and longest theorized domains is motor development in children.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted comparing individuals ≤21 years old with affected first‐degree relatives (FDR) with (1) individuals from unaffected families (controls), or (2) individuals with FDR having other psychiatric disorders. Studies were classified by motor outcome and separate meta‐analyses were performed across six correlated domains, with available N varying by domain.

Results

Inclusion criteria were met by k = 23 independent studies with a total N = 18,582, and N across domains varying from 167 to 8619. The youth from affected families had delays in gross and fine motor development in infancy (k = 3, n = 167, Hedges'g = 0.644, confidence intervals (CI) = [0.328, 0.960], p < .001), walking milestones (k = 3, n = 608, g = 0.444, CI = [0.108, 0.780], p = .01), coordination (k = 8, n = 8619, g = 0.625, CI = [0.453, 0.797], p < .0001), and had more abnormal movements such as involuntary movements (k = 6, n = 8365, g = 0.291, CI = [0.041, 0.542], p = .02) compared with controls. However, not all effects survived correction for publication bias. Effects for neurological soft signs were small and not reliably different from zero (k = 4, n = 548, g = 0.238, CI = [−0.106, 0.583], p = .18). When comparing the FDR group to youth from families with other psychiatric disorders, the FDR group was distinguished by poorer gross and fine motor skills (k = 2, n = 275, g = 0.847, CI = [0.393, 1.300], p < .001).

Conclusions

Motor deficits during development likely represent an endophenotype for schizophrenia, although its specificity is limited in relation to other serious mental disorders. It holds promise as a low cost domain for early risk detection, although it will have to be combined with other indicators to achieve clinically usable prediction accuracy. Impaired coordination was the most robust result with a moderate effect size and lack of heterogeneity and publication bias.
Role of olfaction in host plant selection and local adaptation of a polyphagous herbivore, Eucolaspis Sharp
Authors: Doddala P. R. C. , Minor M. A. , Wang Q. , Rogers D. J. , Koot E. M. , Trewick S. A.
Published: November 2015

Host plant cues are known to shape insect–host plant association in many insect groups. More pronounced associations are generally manifested in specialist herbivores, but little is known in generalist herbivores. We used a polyphagous native beetle from New Zealand, bronze beetle, Eucolaspis sp. ‘Hawkes Bay’ (Chrysomelidae: Eumolpinae) to explore the role of olfaction in locating host plants and local adaptation. We also tested the role of other cues in the degree of acceptance or rejection of hosts. Adult Eucolaspis beetles were attracted to fresh leaf volatiles from apple and blackberry (Rosaceae). Male and female beetles responded similarly to olfactory cues of host plants. An indication of evolutionary affiliation was observed in olfactory preferences of geographically isolated conspecific populations. We found that geographically isolated populations of the beetles differ in their olfactory responses and exhibit some degree of local adaptation. However, irrespective of geographical and ecological associations, blackberry was preferred over apple as a feeding plant, and another novel plant, bush lawyer (Rubus australis), was readily accepted by 53.25% of the tested beetles. We show that plant volatiles play an important role in host location by Eucolaspis, but the acceptance or rejection of a particular host could also involve visual and contact cues.
Effects of environmental fluctuations on fish metabolism: Atlantic salmon Salmo salar as a case study
Authors: Enders E. C. , Boisclair D.
Published: November 2015

Using Atlantic salmon Salmo salar parr as study species, recent findings are summarized on how (1) diurnal variations in water temperature affects standard metabolic rate, (2) shelter may reduce routine metabolic rate and (3) fluctuations of water speed affect the costs of activity. The results suggest that the accuracy of bioenergetics models can be hampered if the effects of environmental fluctuations are omitted. Incorporating environmental fluctuations into estimates and models of fish metabolism will not only improve the accuracy of energy budget calculations, but also have crucial management implications for conservation and improve the capacity to predict effects of climate change.
Oxygen uptake in Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp.: when ecology and physiology meet
Authors: Eliason E. J. , Farrell A. P.
Published: November 2015

Over the past several decades, a substantial amount of research has examined how cardiorespiratory physiology supports the diverse activities performed throughout the life cycle of Pacific salmon, genus Oncorhynchus. Pioneering experiments emphasized the importance of aerobic scope in setting the functional thermal tolerance for activity in fishes. Variation in routine metabolism can have important performance and fitness consequences as it is related to dominance, aggression, boldness, territoriality, growth rate, postprandial oxygen consumption, life history, season, time of day, availability of shelter and social interactions. Wild fishes must perform many activities simultaneously (e.g. swim, obtain prey, avoid predators, compete, digest and reproduce) and oxygen delivery is allocated among competing organ systems according to the capacity of the heart to deliver blood. For example, salmonids that are simultaneously swimming and digesting trade‐off maximum swimming performance in order to support the oxygen demands of digestion. As adult Pacific salmonids cease feeding in the ocean prior to their home migration, endogenous energy reserves and cardiac capacity are primarily partitioned among the demands for swimming upriver, sexual maturation and spawning behaviours. Furthermore, the upriver spawning migration is under strong selection pressure, given that Pacific salmonids are semelparous (single opportunity to spawn). Consequently, these fishes optimize energy expenditures in a number of ways: strong homing, precise migration timing, choosing forward‐assist current paths and exploiting the boundary layer to avoid the strong currents in the middle of the river, using energetically efficient swimming speeds, and recovering rapidly from anaerobic swimming. Upon arrival at the spawning ground, remaining energy can be strategically allocated to the various spawning behaviours. Strong fidelity to natal streams has resulted in reproductively isolated populations that appear to be locally adapted physiologically to their specific environmental conditions. Populations with more challenging migrations have enhanced cardiorespiratory performance. Pacific salmonids are able to maintain aerobic scope across the broad range of temperatures encountered historically during their migration; however, climate change‐induced river warming has created lethal conditions for many populations, raising conservation concerns. Despite considerable research examining cardiorespiratory physiology in Pacific salmonids over the last 70 years, critical knowledge gaps are identified.
Rapid metabolizer genotype of CYP2C19 is a risk factor of being refractory to proton pump inhibitor therapy for reflux esophagitis
Authors: Ichikawa Hitomi , Sugimoto Mitsushige , Sugimoto Ken , Andoh Akira , Furuta Takahisa
Published: November 2015

Background:

Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) are mainly metabolized by cytochrome P450 2C19 (CYP2C19) and used as the first‐line therapy for gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). However, while several studies have examined the influence of CYP2C19 polymorphism on GERD treatment with PPIs, most have had small sample sizes and were conducted in a single center. Here, we used meta‐analysis to investigate whether or not the CYP2C19 rapid metabolizer (RM) genotype is a risk factor for GERD patients being refractory to PPI therapy.

Methods:

PubMed and other electronic databases were systematically searched up to August 2014 using the following terms: “GERD and CYP2C19”, “esophagitis and CYP2C19”, and “non‐erosive reflux disease and CYP2C19.” Searches were limited to publications in English, and two investigators evaluated eligible studies and extracted data.

Results:

The total efficacy rate of PPIs for GERD, including reflux esophagitis (RE) and non‐erosive reflux disease, was 56.4% (95% confidence interval [CI]; 53.9–58.9%, 870/1543) in intention‐to‐treat analysis and 63.8% (95%CI; 61.3–66.2%, 950/1489) in per‐protocol analysis. Efficacy rates varied significantly between CYP2C19 genotypes (intention‐to‐treat analysis: RMs, 52.2% [315/604]; intermediate metabolizers, 56.7% [298/526]; poor metabolizers [PMs], 61.3% [138/225]; P = 0.047). Among RE patients, CYP2C19 RMs had an increased risk of being refractory to PPI therapy compared with PMs (odds ratio: 1.661, 95% CI: 1.023–2.659, P = 0.040).

Conclusions:

The present meta‐analysis demonstrates that CYP2C19 RMs with RE have an increased risk of being refractory to PPI therapy compared with PMs. Individualized dosing regimen with PPIs based on CYP2C19 genotype might be a valid therapeutic strategy for overcoming insufficient gastric acid inhibition.
Quantitative resistance against Bemisia tabaci in Solanum pennellii: Genetics and metabolomics
Authors: van den Oever‐van den Elsen Floor , Lucatti Alejandro F. , van Heusden Sjaak , Broekgaarden Colette , Mumm Roland , Dicke Marcel , Vosman Ben
Published: November 2015

The whitefly Bemisia tabaci is a serious threat in tomato cultivation worldwide as all varieties grown today are highly susceptible to this devastating herbivorous insect. Many accessions of the tomato wild relative Solanum pennellii show a high resistance towards B. tabaci. A mapping approach was used to elucidate the genetic background of whitefly‐resistance related traits and associated biochemical traits in this species. Minor quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for whitefly adult survival (AS) and oviposition rate (OR) were identified and some were confirmed in an F2BC1 population, where they showed increased percentages of explained variance (more than 30%). Bulked segregant analyses on pools of whitefly‐resistant and ‐susceptible F2 plants enabled the identification of metabolites that correlate either with resistance or susceptibility. Genetic mapping of these metabolites showed that a large number of them co‐localize with whitefly‐resistance QTLs. Some of these whitefly‐resistance QTLs are hotspots for metabolite QTLs. Although a large number of metabolite QTLs correlated to whitefly resistance or susceptibility, most of them are yet unknown compounds and further studies are needed to identify the metabolic pathways and genes involved. The results indicate a direct genetic correlation between biochemical‐based resistance characteristics and reduced whitefly incidence in S. pennellii.
Do Inflation Expectations Propagate the Inflationary Impact of Real Oil Price Shocks?: Evidence from the Michigan Survey
Authors: WONG BENJAMIN
Published: November 2015

This paper presents evidence that inflation expectations, as measured by the Michigan Survey of Consumers, only play a minimal role in the propagation of real oil price shocks into inflation. This is despite evidence that confirms that inflation expectations are sensitive to real oil price shocks. Further analysis suggests that after the 1990s, inflation expectations may have played no part in propagating real oil price shocks into inflation.
The protective role of isorhamnetin on human brain microvascular endothelial cells from cytotoxicity induced by methylglyoxal and oxygen–glucose deprivation
Authors: Li Wenlu , Chen Zhigang , Yan Min , He Ping , Chen Zhong , Dai Haibin
Published: November 2015

As the first target of stroke, cerebral endothelial cells play a key role in brain vascular repair and maintenance, and their function is impeded in diabetes. Methylglyoxal (MGO), a reactive dicarbonyl produced during glucose metabolism, accumulates in diabetic patients. MGO and MGO‐induced advanced glycation end‐products (AGEs) could ameliorate stroke‐induced brain vascular damage, closely related with ECs dysfunction. Using MGO plus oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) to mimic diabetic stroke, we reported the protective effect of isorhamnetin on OGD‐induced cytotoxicity after MGO treatment on primary human brain microvascular endothelial cells (HBMEC) and explored the underlying mechanisms. Treatment of MGO for 24 h significantly enhanced 3‐h OGD‐induced HBMEC toxic effect, which was inhibited by pretreatment of isorhamnetin (100 μmol/L). Moreover, the protective effect of isorhamnetin is multiple function dependent, which includes anti‐inflammation, anti‐oxidative stress and anti‐apoptosis effects. Besides its well‐known inhibition on the mitochondria‐dependent or intrinsic apoptotic pathway, isorhamnetin also reduced activation of the extrinsic apoptotic pathway, as characterized by the decreased expression and activity of caspase 3 and caspase 8. Furthermore, pretreatment with isorhamnetin specifically inhibited FAS/FASL expression and suppressed nuclear factor‐kappa B nuclear translocation. Taken together, our results indicated that isorhamnetin protected against OGD‐induced cytotoxicity after MGO treatment in cultured HBMEC due to its multiple protective effects and could inhibit Fas‐mediated extrinsic apoptosis. Therefore, isorhamnetin is a promising reagent for the treatment of hyperglycemia and ischemia‐induced cerebral vascular degeneration.

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A proposed model of the potential protective mechanism of isorhamnetin, a metabolite of quercetin, on methylglyoxal (MGO) treatment plus oxygen–glucose deprivation (OGD) exposure‐induced cytotoxicity in cultured human brain microvascular endothelial cells. Isorhamnetin inhibits FasL‐mediated extrinsic apoptosis and neurotrophic factor κB (NF‐κB) nuclear translocation, which can induce the cell DNA damage. Therefore, the protective effect of isorhamnetin occurs through multiple functions, including anti‐inflammation, anti‐oxidative stress and anti‐apoptosis. Therefore, isorhamnetin is a promising reagent for the treatment of hyperglycemia and ischemia‐induced cerebral vascular degeneration.