bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation and Characterization of Chitosan Nanoparticles‐Loaded Fish Gelatin‐Based Edible Films
Authors: Hosseini Seyed Fakhreddin , Rezaei Masoud , Zandi Mojgan , Farahmandghavi Farhid
Published: June 2015

Bio‐based nanocomposite films were obtained from fish gelatin (FG) and different amounts of chitosan nanoparticles (CSNPs) (0, 2, 6 and 8% w/w) with diameters ranging from 40 to 80 nm. The influence of nanoparticles on the surface morphology, physicochemical properties, crystalline structure and thermal stability of FG was investigated. The surface morphology assay showed a considerable increase in roughness parameters by incorporating the nanoparticles in FG matrix. Contact angle measurements ranged from about 45C to 60–97C as filler concentration increased, indicating that reinforced films had higher superficial hydrophobicity than neat FG ones. The X‐ray diffraction results also suggested a higher crystallinity in FG matrix due to CSNPs nucleating effect. The glass transition of the nanocomposites was shifted to lower temperatures with respect to the pure FG. Thermal stability tended to increase in accordance with CSNPs content, in which the highest shift of degradation temperature was observed at 6% (w/w) loading content.

Practical Applications

In recent years, bio‐based polymers have attracted more and more attention due to growing environmental concern and decreasing reserve of fossil fuel. This recent evolution encourages researchers and industries to develop novel materials labeled as “environment friendly.” This study investigates the preparation and characterization of eco‐friendly fish gelatin‐based composite reinforced with chitosan nanoparticles, as a substitution of plastic packaging materials with the goal of decreasing environmental pollution.
Exclusive olive oil consumption and 10‐year (2004–2014) acute coronary syndrome incidence among cardiac patients: the GREECS observational study
Authors: Kouvari M. , Notara V. , Panagiotakos D. B. , Michalopoulou M. , Vassileiou N. , Papataxiarchis E. , Tzanoglou D. , Mantas Y. , Kogias Y. , Stravopodis P. , Papanagnou G. , Zombolos S. , Pitsavos C. ,   the GREECS Study Investigators
Published: June 2015

Background

The present study evaluated the association between long‐term, exclusive olive oil consumption, in cooking preparation or as a dressing, and the 10‐year (2004–2014) incidence of acute coronary syndrome (ACS) among cardiac patients.

Methods

From October 2003 to September 2004, a sample of 2172 ACS consecutive patients from six major Greek hospitals were enrolled. During 2013–2014, the 10‐year follow‐up was performed in 1918 patients (88% participation rate). The development of fatal or nonfatal ACS was recorded through medical records or hospital registries. Among other dietary components, added fats (i.e. olive oil, butter, margarine and seed oils) consumption at baseline examination was assessed using a semi‐quantitative food frequency questionnaire.

Results

Non‐exclusive olive oil consumption on a daily basis was associated with an adverse effect on the ACS incidence after taking into account various potential confounders [odds ratio (OR) = 1.40, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.05–1.86, P = 0.024]. However, significant interactions between olive oil consumption and body mass index (BMI) (P = 0.082) and educational level (P = 0.054) led to further stratified analysis. Using BMI as strata (i.e. ≤29.9 versus >29.9 kg m–2), the above association remained significant only in obese patients (OR = 1.80, 95% CI = 1.03–3.12, P = 0.038), whereas, on examining the education status (i.e. ≤9 versus >9 years of school), a significant association was observed only among the higher educated patients (OR = 1.83, 95% CI = 1.01–3.32, P = 0.047).

Conclusions

Exclusive use of olive oil, either as a salad dressing or in cooking, should be promoted through the dietary management of ACS patients, with the aim of reducing the likelihood of recurrent cardiac episodes.
OIL AND GAS IN THE ADRIATIC FORELAND, ITALY
Authors: Cazzini F. , Zotto O. Dal , Fantoni R. , Ghielmi M. , Ronchi P. , Scotti P.
Published: June 2015

The offshore Adriatic Basin holds more than 50% of Italian gas reserves together with significant volumes of oil. A number of large and giant‐size biogenic gasfields and medium to large oilfields have been discovered here during the past 60 years. Two petroleum systems have been identified: a Plio‐Pleistocene biogenic gas system, and an Upper Triassic – Lower Jurassic oil system. These systems are described in this paper within a regional geological framework, with particular focus on petroleum system elements (source, reservoir, seal, trap and charge). The biogenic gas play was for several decades the prime focus of Italian E&P efforts throughout the Adriatic area but is now mature, and significant additional discoveries are unlikely to be made without a breakthrough in DHI (direct hydrocarbon indicator) technology. The Mesozoic oil play is as yet unproved in the northern Adriatic area, where large anticlinal structures at depths of up to ca. 6000 m are available for exploration and constitute high‐risk – high‐reward targets. By contrast, the play is proved in the Central and Southern Adriatic where several oilfields are currently producing. Exploration targets still exist here and may generate medium‐sized discoveries although the prevalent heavy‐oil phase may jeopardize their economic value.
PETROLEUM GEOLOGY AND HYDROCARBON POTENTIAL OF THE ADRIATIC BASIN, OFFSHORE CROATIA
Authors: Wrigley R. , Hodgson N. , Esestime P.
Published: June 2015

Offshore Croatia is a relatively underexplored area with no oilfields currently on production. Exploration commenced in 1970 and several biogenic gas fields were subsequently discovered producing from shallow Plio‐Pleistocene reservoir rocks in the northern Adriatic area; however, exploration wells drilled for oil in Mesozoic carbonates have failed, although several wells encountered oil shows.

Using data from the Croatian and Italian Adriatic, we provide in this paper some new insights into the Mesozoic palaeogeography and hydrocarbon plays of offshore Croatia.

Offshore Croatia has been divided into three areas – north, central and south – with distinctive geological characteristics and hydrocarbon systems. The effects and importance of halokinesis in the eastern Adriatic is described and its influence on the petroleum systems is discussed.

The evaluation of a modern, regional, high‐resolution dataset has enhanced our understanding of the Adriatic Basin and supports the presence of petroleum systems with potential mature source rocks in shales from the Triassic succession, supplying reservoir rocks in Jurassic and Cretaceous carbonate platform margins/slope talus plays, and Cenozoic siliciclastic plays.
Development of an insect metalloproteinase inhibitor drug carrier system for application in chronic wound infections
Authors: Eisenhardt Michaela , Dobler Dorota , Schlupp Peggy , Schmidts Thomas , Salzig Mark , Vilcinskas Andreas , Salzig Denise , Czermak Peter , Keusgen Michael , Runkel Frank
Published: June 2015

Objectives

The insect metalloproteinase inhibitor (IMPI) represents the first peptide capable of inhibiting virulence-mediating microbial M4-metalloproteinases and is promising as a therapeutic. The purpose of this study was to develop a suitable drug carrier system for the IMPI drug to enable treatment of chronic wound infections. Specifically, we studied on poloxamer 407 hydrogels, examining the influence of several additives and preservatives on the rheological parameters of the hydrogels, the bioactivity and release of IMPI.

Methods

The rheological characterisation of the hydrogel was performed by oscillatory measurements. The bioactivity of IMPI was evaluated in a Casein fluoresence quenching assay.

Key findings

In this study, a suitable application form for the dermal treatment of chronic wound infections with IMPI was designed. The influences of poloxamer 407 concentration and various additives on the viscoelastic properties and preservation of a thermosensitive hydrogel were investigated. The incorporation of the precursor drug IMPI–gluthathione-s-transferase (GST) in the hydrogel had no influence on the rheological characteristics and will be released. The bioactivity of IMPI-GST is not influenced by the hydrogel and remains constant over 4 weeks of storage.

Conclusions

This study reports the development of a poloxamer hydrogel as a suitable carrier system for the application of IMPI.
Detection of tick‐borne Anaplasma bovis, Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Anaplasma centrale in Spain
Authors: PALOMAR A. M. , PORTILLO A. , SANTIBÁÑEZ P. , MAZUELAS D. , RONCERO L. , GARCÍA‐ÁLVAREZ L. , SANTIBÁÑEZ S. , GUTIÉRREZ Ó. , OTEO J. A.
Published: June 2015

The genus Anaplasma (Rickettsiales: Anaplasmataceae) includes species of medical and veterinary importance. The presence of Anaplasma spp. in ticks from birds, as well as in Haemaphysalis punctata (Ixodida: Ixodidae) specimens collected from cattle and vegetation in northern Spain was investigated. A total of 336 ticks from birds [174 Ixodes frontalis (Ixodida: Ixodidae), 108 H. punctata, 34 Hyalomma marginatum (Ixodida: Ixodidae), 17 Ixodes ricinus (Ixodida: Ixodidae) and three Ixodes spp.], and 181 H. punctata specimens collected from cattle (n = 71) and vegetation (n = 110) were analysed. Anaplasma bovis was detected in five H. punctata, including two from birds (1.9%) and three from vegetation (2.7%). Four I. frontalis (2.3%) (one co‐infected with ‘Candidatus Midichloria mitochondrii’) and one I. ricinus (5.9%) removed from birds, as well as four H. punctata (5.6%) collected from cattle showed Anaplasma phagocytophilum infection. In addition, Anaplasma centrale was found in two H. punctata, one from a cow (1.4%) and the other from vegetation (0.9%). This study represents the first evidence of the presence of A. bovis in European ticks, and reports the first detection of A. bovis and A. centrale in H. punctata, and the first finding of A. phagocytophilum and ‘Ca. Midichloria mitochondrii’ in I. frontalis.
Obesity, asthma prevalence and IL‐4: Roles of inflammatory cytokines, adiponectin and neuropeptide Y
Authors: Lu Yanxia , Van Bever Hugo P. S. , Lim Tow Keang , Kuan Win Sen , Goh Daniel Yam Thiam , Mahadevan Malcolm , Sim Tiong Beng , Ho Roger , Larbi Anis , Ng Tze Pin
Published: June 2015

Background

Obesity is associated with asthma risk and severity, but the underlying biological mechanisms are poorly understood. We hypothesized that cytokine markers of systemic inflammation, and adiponectin and neuropeptide Y (NPY) markers of immuno‐modulating and neurohormonal regulation are involved in the obesity–asthma association.

Methods

We explored the relationships between body mass index (BMI), C‐reactive protein (CRP), IL‐6, TNF‐α, adiponectin and NPY with asthma prevalence and IL‐4 levels in 70 youth with asthma and 69 age‐ and gender‐matched healthy controls using cross‐sectional and longitudinal data.

Results

Mean BMI level was higher among patients with asthma than healthy controls (p < 0.001). In logistic regression models controlling for potential confounders, independent associations with asthma prevalence were found for obesity (p = 0.001), increasing tertiles of CRP (linear trend p < 0.001), IL‐6 (linear trend p < 0.001) and lowest and highest tertiles of TNF‐α (quadratic trend p < 0.05), increasing adiponectin (linear p = 0.022) and decreasing tertiles of NPY (linear trend p = 0.001). Among patients with asthma, NPY level was positively correlated with adiponectin (p < 0.05) and TNF‐α (p < 0.05), and levels of NPY and IL‐6 were significantly associated with IL‐4 level at baseline and 1‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

The obesity–asthma association was not explained by systemic inflammation. Specifically, CRP, TNF‐a, IL‐6, NPY and adiponectin were independently associated with asthma prevalence. NPY and IL‐6 were associated with IL‐4 marker of allergic airway inflammation in asthma and should be further investigated as prognostic markers of asthma outcomes.
No Postmaterialists in Foxholes: Postmaterialist Values, Nationalism, and National Threat in the People's Republic of China
Authors: Reilly Jonathan Joseph
Published: June 2015

In this article, I present findings from a survey experiment in which Chinese university students exposed to a treatment designed to increase feelings of national threat were—based on their responses to the four‐item postmaterialism values‐priority battery—significantly more likely to be classified as “pure materialists.” These findings are presented in support of the proposition that perception of a hostile international environment may tend to exaggerate citizens' authoritarian and nationalistic sentiments at the expense of more democratically favorable value orientations. Media and political figures in the West who rail against the evils of China's authoritarian leadership might believe that they are championing and encouraging democratic aspirations among the Chinese people, but might instead be inciting impulses and attitudes that are far less “democracy‐friendly.”
Delimitation of cryptic species of the Scytosiphon lomentaria complex (Scytosiphonaceae, Phaeophyceae) in Japan, based on mitochondrial and nuclear molecular markers
Authors: Kogame Kazuhiro , Ishikawa Shozo , Yamauchi Kei , Uwai Shinya , Kurihara Akira , Masuda Michio
Published: June 2015

Scytosiphon lomentaria (Scytosiphonaceae, Ectocarpales) is believed to include some cryptic species, particularly in the Pacific. We attempted to delimit these species in Japan using mitochondrial cox1 and cox3 and nuclear ITS2 and the second intron of the centrin gene (cetn‐int2). Fifty‐three cox1+cox3 mitotypes, 26 ITS2 ribotypes and 45 cetn‐int2 haplotypes were found in 107 samples collected from 33 localities in Japan. Based on phylogenetic analyses, similar sequence types were grouped into ten mitogroups, eight ribogroups and six cetn‐int2 haplogroups (sequence‐type groups). From the molecular trees and combinations of the mito‐, ribo‐ and haplogroups, three cryptic species were apparent (Groups I–III). Group I, widely distributed on Pacific coasts, was highly supported by all molecular trees, whereas Groups II (North Pacific) and III (Northwestern Pacific and Australasia) were more closely related to each other. However, sequence‐type‐group combinations that would be characteristic of hybrids between Groups II and III were not detected, suggesting no gene flow between the two Groups. Further investigations of an additional 127 sympatrically growing plants supported the absence of gene flow between Groups II and III. Four samples did not belong to any of the Groups I–III and possibly represent additional species.
Squishy lipids: Temperature effects on the betaine and galactolipid profiles of a C18/C18 peridinin‐containing dinoflagellate, Symbiodinium microadriaticum (Dinophyceae), isolated from the mangrove jellyfish, Cassiopea xamachana
Authors: Leblond Jeffrey D. , Khadka Manoj , Duong Linda , Dahmen Jeremy L.
Published: June 2015

Previous work from our laboratory has shown dinoflagellates, which possess the carotenoid peridinin, have been divided into two clusters based on plastid galactolipid fatty acid composition. In one cluster major forms of monogalactosyldiacylglycerol (MGDG) and digalactosyldiacylglycerol (DGDG), lipids that comprise the majority of photosynthetic membranes, were C18/C18 (sn‐1/sn‐2), with octadecapentaenoic [18:5(n‐3)] and octadecatetraenoic [18:4(n‐3)] acid as principal fatty acids. The other cluster contained C20/C18 major forms, with eicosapentaenoic acid [20:5(n‐3)] being the predominant sn‐1 fatty acid. In this study, we have found that Symbiodinium microadriaticum isolated from the jellyfish, Cassiopea xamachana, when grown at 30°C, produced MGDG and DGDG with a more saturated fatty acid, 18:4(n‐3), at the sn‐2 carbon than when grown at 20°C where 18:5(n‐3) predominates. This modulation of the sn‐2 fatty acid's level of saturation is mechanistically similar to what has been observed in Pyrocystis, a C20/C18 dinoflagellate. We have also examined the effect of growth temperature on the betaine lipid, diacylglycerylcarboxyhydroxymethylcholine (DGCC), which has been observed by others to be the predominant non plastidial polar lipid in dinoflagellates. Temperature effects on it were minimal, with very few modulations in fatty acid unsaturation as observed in MGDG and DGDG. Rather, the primary difference seen at the two growth temperatures was the alteration of the amount of minor forms of DGCC, as well as a second betaine lipid, diacylglyceryl‐N,N,N‐trimethylhomoserine.
Analysis of Multispecies Point Patterns by Using Multivariate Log-Gaussian Cox Processes
Authors: Waagepetersen Rasmus , Guan Yongtao , Jalilian Abdollah , Mateu Jorge
Published: June 2015

Multivariate log-Gaussian Cox processes are flexible models for multivariate point patterns. However, they have so far been applied in bivariate cases only. We move beyond the bivariate case to model multispecies point patterns of tree locations. In particular we address the problems of identifying parsimonious models and of extracting biologically relevant information from the models fitted. The latent multivariate Gaussian field is decomposed into components given in terms of random fields common to all species and components which are species specific. This allows a decomposition of variance that can be used to quantify to what extent the spatial variation of a species is governed by common or species-specific factors. Cross-validation is used to select the number of common latent fields to obtain a suitable trade-off between parsimony and fit of the data. The selected number of common latent fields provides an index of complexity of the multivariate covariance structure. Hierarchical clustering is used to identify groups of species with similar patterns of dependence on the common latent fields.
Inhibition of Interferon Regulatory Factor 4 Suppresses Th1 and Th17 Cell Differentiation and Ameliorates Experimental Autoimmune Encephalomyelitis
Authors: Yang C. , He D. , Yin C. , Tan J.
Published: June 2015

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an autoimmune disease that is characterized by recurrent episodes of T‐cell‐mediated immune attack on central nervous system (CNS) myelin, leading to axon damage and progressive disability. Interferon regulatory factor 4 (IRF4) is expressed predominantly in the immune system and plays an important role in its development and function. Recent study demonstrated that IRF4 was critical for the generation of IL‐17‐producing Th17 cells. However, the effect of IRF4 on experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model of MS, needs to be further investigated. In our current study, inhibition of IRF4 with IRF4 siRNA (SiIRF4) decreases EAE scores and infiltration of Th1 and Th17 cells, but increases Treg infiltration. SiIRF4 inhibits Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation in vivo and in vitro. In our DC‐T‐cell coculture system, SiIRF4‐treated DCs resulted in significantly less IFN‐γ and IL‐17 production from T cells. Next, we adoptively transfer CD11c+ DCs from SiIRF4‐treated mice into recipient mice and found that these CD11c+ DCs ameliorated EAE. Furthermore, CD11c+ DCs from SiIRF4‐treated naive mice exhibited significantly reduced expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines TNF‐α, IL‐1β, IL‐6 and IL‐12/IL‐23 (p40), and a corresponding increase in anti‐inflammatory IL‐10 expression. In conclusion, inhibition of IRF4 suppresses Th1 and Th17 cell differentiation and ameliorates EAE, via a direct regulation of DCs.
Is the US Consumer Credit Asymmetric?
Authors: Kumar Saten
Published: June 2015

We investigate the existence of any asymmetric effects in the US consumer credit. In doing so, we utilize the asymmetric cointegration methods proposed by Breitung (2001, 2002) and Enders and Siklos (2001). Furthermore, we tend to explore two additional dimensions in this literature. First, whether asymmetries (if any) are persistent over‐time in the credit demand model. Second, whether the Great recession contributed to any asymmetric impacts on the credit demand. Our results revealed that the long‐run relationship of consumer credit (credit, income, wealth and interest rate on personal loans) is asymmetric. While it is difficult to identify the direct sources of this asymmetric result, our intuition is that it is linked to the structural breaks in the rate of personal loans encountered in the early 1980s. Moreover, we find no strong evidence that much of the asymmetric impacts in consumer credit were experienced in the Great recession. Neither have we attained evidence that asymmetric impacts on credit demand are persistent over‐time.
Democratization and Real Exchange Rates,
Authors: Furlan Benjamin , Gächter Martin , Krebs Bob , Oberhofer Harald
Published: June 2015

In this article, we combine two so far separate strands of the economic literature and argue that democratization leads to a real exchange rate appreciation. We test this hypothesis empirically for a sample of countries observed from 1980 to 2007 by combining a difference‐in‐difference approach with propensity score matching estimators. Our empirical results reveal a strong and significant finding: democratization causes real exchange rates to appreciate. Consequently, the ongoing process of democratization observed in many parts of the world is likely to reduce exchange rate distortions.
The identification of a killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor 3DL1*0150209 in an Asian population using molecular techniques
Authors: Yindom L.‐M. , Wang L. , Xu K. , Dong T. , Rowland‐Jones S. L.
Published: June 2015

Full‐length sequences of KIR3DL1*0150209 differ from those of KIR3DL1*0150201 with seven single‐nucleotide polymorphisms.
Undercutting Underdetermination‐Based Scepticism
Authors: Ashton Natalie Alana
Published: June 2015

According to Duncan Pritchard, there are two kinds of radical sceptical problem; the closure‐based problem, and the underdetermination‐based problem. He argues that distinguishing these two problems leads to a set of desiderata for an anti‐sceptical response, and that the way to meet all of these desiderata is by supplementing a form of Wittgensteinian contextualism (which can undercut the closure‐based problem) with disjunctivist views about factivity (to undercut the underdetermination‐based problem). I agree that an adequate response should meet most of the initial desiderata Pritchard puts forward, and that some version of Wittgensteinian contextualism shows the most promise as a starting point for this, but I argue, contra Pritchard, that the addition of disjunctivism is unnecessary and potentially counter‐productive. If we draw on lessons from Michael Williams's inferential contextualism then it is both possible, and preferable, to meet the most important of Pritchard's desiderata, undercutting both closure‐based and underdetermination‐based sceptical problems in a unified way, without the need to resort to disjunctivism.
Motivators and deterrents to blood donation among Black South Africans: a qualitative analysis of focus group data
Authors: Muthivhi T. N. , Olmsted M. G. , Park H. , Sha M. , Raju V. , Mokoena T. , Bloch E. M. , Murphy E. L. , Reddy R.
Published: June 2015

Background and Objectives

South Africa has a markedly skewed representation where the majority of blood (62%) is presently collected from an ethnically White minority. This study seeks to identify culturally specific factors affecting motivation of donors in South Africa.

Materials and Methods

We performed a qualitative study to evaluate motivators and deterrents to blood donation among Black South Africans. A total of 13 focus groups, comprising a total of 97 Black South Africans, stratified by age and geographic location were conducted. Transcripts of the interviews were analysed using a coding framework by Bednall & Bove.

Results

Participants made 463 unique comments about motivators focusing primarily on promotional communications (28%), incentives (20%) and prosocial motivation (16%). Participants made 376 comments about deterrents which focused primarily on fear (41%), negative attitudes (14%) and lack of knowledge (10%).

Conclusion

Although prosocial motivation (altruism) was the most frequently mentioned individual motivator, promotional communication elicited more overall comments by participants. As reported by many authors, fear and lack of awareness were strong deterrents, but scepticism engendered by perceived racial discrimination in blood collection were unique to the South African environment.
Auxin influx importers modulate serration along the leaf margin
Authors: Kasprzewska Ania , Carter Ross , Swarup Ranjan , Bennett Malcolm , Monk Nick , Hobbs Jamie K. , Fleming Andrew
Published: June 2015

Leaf shape in Arabidopsis is modulated by patterning events in the margin that utilize a PIN‐based auxin exporter/CUC2 transcription factor system to define regions of promotion and retardation of growth, leading to morphogenesis. In addition to auxin exporters, leaves also express auxin importers, notably members of the AUX1/LAX family. In contrast to their established roles in embryogenesis, lateral root and leaf initiation, the function of these transporters in leaf development is poorly understood. We report that three of these genes (AUX1, LAX1 and LAX2) show specific and dynamic patterns of expression during early leaf development in Arabidopsis, and that loss of expression of all three genes is required for observation of a phenotype in which morphogenesis (serration) is decreased. We used these expression patterns and mutant phenotypes to develop a margin‐patterning model that incorporates an AUX1/LAX1/LAX2 auxin import module that influences the extent of leaf serration. Testing of this model by margin‐localized expression of axr3–1 (AXR17) provides further insight into the role of auxin in leaf morphogenesis.
Structural Reforms and Labour‐market Outcomes: International Panel‐data Evidence
Authors: Hollweg Claire H. , Lederman Daniel , Mitra Devashish
Published: June 2015

This paper explores the impact of structural reforms on a comprehensive set of macro‐level labour‐market outcomes, including the unemployment rate, the average wage index, and overall and female employment levels and labour force participation rates. Together, these outcome variables capture the overall health of the labour market and the aggregate welfare of workers. Yet, to our knowledge, there seems to be no other comprehensive empirical investigation in the existing literature of the impact of structural reforms at the cross‐country macro‐level on labour‐market outcomes other than the unemployment rate. After documenting the average trends across countries in the labour‐market outcomes up to 10 years on either side of each country's structural reform year, we run fixed‐effects ordinary least squares and instrumental variables regressions to account for the likely endogeneity of structural reforms to labour‐market outcomes. Overall, the results suggest that structural reforms lead to positive outcomes for labour. Redistributive effects in favour of workers, along the lines of the Stolper‐Samuelson effect, may be at work.
Treatment of feline intermediate‐ to high‐grade lymphoma with a modified university of Wisconsin–Madison protocol: 119 cases (2004–2012)
Authors: Collette S. A. , Allstadt S. D. , Chon E. M. , Vernau W. , Smith A. N. , Garrett L. D. , Choy K. , Rebhun R. B. , Rodriguez C. O. , Skorupski K. A.
Published: June 2015

CHOP‐based (cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vinca alkaloid, prednisolone) chemotherapy protocols are often recommended for treatment of feline lymphoma. While maintenance‐freeCHOP‐based protocols have been published and readily used in dogs, there is limited literature regarding similar maintenance‐free protocols in cats. The purpose of this study was to describe the outcome of cats with intermediate‐ to high‐grade lymphoma that were prescribed a modified 25‐week University of Wisconsin–Madison (UW‐25) chemotherapy protocol. A secondary objective was examination of potential prognostic factors. One hundred and nineteen cats from five institutions treated with aUW‐25‐based protocol were included. The Kaplan–Meier median progression‐free interval (PFI) and survival time (MST) were 56 and 97 (range 2–2019) days, respectively. Cats assessed as having a complete response (CR) to therapy had significantly longerPFIandMSTthan those with partial or no response (PFI205 versus 54 versus 21 days, respectively,P < 0.0001 andMST318 versus 85 versus 27 days, respectively,P < 0.0001).
Generalized vitiligo in a dog with primary hypoadrenocorticism
Authors: Malerba Eleonora , Morini Maria , Fracassi Federico
Published: June 2015

Background

Vitiligo is presumed to be an autoimmune disorder in the dog; primary adrenal insufficiency (Addison's disease) is associated with immune‐mediated destruction of the adrenal cortex.

Hypothesis/Objectives

In this case report we describe a dog with primary hypoadrenocorticism that developed generalized vitiligo.

Case report

A 4‐year‐old spayed female cross‐bred dog developed signs of Addison's disease and this was confirmed by biochemical testing; the dog was treated with fludrocortisone acetate and then desoxycorticosterone pivalate. Three months after the diagnosis, the dog developed depigmentation of the whole hair coat and of several focal areas of the skin. Histopathological findings were consistent with vitiligo.

Conclusions and clinical importance

Dogs with immune‐mediated disease may develop other manifestations of immune‐mediated disease, including a combination of Addison's disease and vitiligo. The cause in this case was not determined.
Cross‐resistance patterns to acetyl coenzyme A carboxylase (ACCase) inhibitors associated with different ACCase mutations in Beckmannia syzigachne
Authors: Pan L , Li J , Zhang T , Zhang D , Dong L Y
Published: June 2015

Beckmannia syzigachne (American sloughgrass) is a competitive grass weed found in China. Fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl is widely used for control of this species in China. Resistance to fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl in B. syzigachne has been reported to be conferred by an isoleucine(Ile)‐1781‐leucine(Leu) substitution in the gene encoding the herbicide target, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACCase). In this study, three mutations were detected by derived cleaved amplified polymorphic sequence (dCAPS) method in fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl‐resistant B. syzigachne populations: Ile‐1781‐Leu in population JCWL‐R, Ile‐2041‐Asn in JCJT‐R and Gly‐2096‐Ala in JYJD‐R. The data indicated they were genetically homogeneous (homozygous mutant) at the ACCase locus. The use of cytochrome P450 inhibitors was shown to slightly reduce the GR50 value of fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl‐resistant populations, from which we inferred a combination of target‐site resistance (TSR) and non‐target‐site resistance (NTSR) was involved in fenoxaprop‐P‐ethyl‐resistance. We characterised the cross‐resistance patterns to ACCase inhibitors in B. syzigachne. The plants in the JCWL‐R population were highly resistant to all tested APPs (aryloxyphen‐oxypropionates), sethoxydim and pinoxaden, and moderately resistant to clethodim. The plants in the JCJT‐R population were highly resistant to fluazifop‐P‐butyl, clodinafop‐propargyl, cyhalofop‐butyl, metamifop and pinoxaden; moderately resistant to haloxyfop‐R‐methyl, quizalofop‐P‐ethyl and sethoxydim; and sensitive to clethodim. The plants in the JYJD‐R population were highly resistant to clodinafop‐propargyl, metamifop and pinoxaden; moderately resistant to haloxyfop‐R‐methyl, cyhalofop‐butyl, quizalofop‐P‐ethyl, fluazifop‐P‐butyl and sethoxydim; and sensitive to clethodim. If resistance to ACCase inhibitors is present in B. syzigachne populations in the field, then our results indicate that clethodim should be used. While we demonstrated the cross‐resistance patterns of TSR resulting from three mutations in B. syzigachne, we also demonstrated that NTSR plays a role in resistance, which will complicate weed management.
Globular adiponectin ameliorates metabolic insulin resistance via AMPK‐mediated restoration of microvascular insulin responses
Authors: Zhao Lina , Fu Zhuo , Wu Jing , Aylor Kevin W. , Barrett Eugene J. , Cao Wenhong , Liu Zhenqi
Published: June 2015

Key points

Adiponectin is an adipokine with anti‐inflammatory and anti‐diabetic properties. Hypoadiponectinaemia is closely associated with endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance in obesity and diabetes.

Insulin resistance is present in muscle microvasculature and this may contribute to decreased insulin delivery to, and action in, muscle.

In this study we examined whether adiponectin ameliorates metabolic insulin resistance by affecting muscle microvascular recruitment.

We demonstrated that a high‐fat diet induces vascular adiponectin and insulin resistance but globular adiponectin administration can restore vascular insulin responses and improve insulin's metabolic action via an AMPK‐ and nitric oxide‐dependent mechanism.

This suggests that globular adiponectin might have a therapeutic potential for improving insulin resistance and preventing cardiovascular complications in patients with diabetes via modulation of microvascular insulin responses.

Hypoadiponectinaemia is closely associated with endothelial dysfunction and insulin resistance, and microvasculature plays a critical role in the regulation of insulin action in muscle. Here we tested whether adiponectin replenishment could improve metabolic insulin sensitivity in male rats fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) via the modulation of microvascular insulin responses. Male Sprague–Dawley rats were fed either a HFD or low‐fat diet (LFD) for 4 weeks. Small resistance artery myograph changes in tension, muscle microvascular recruitment and metabolic response to insulin were determined. Compared with rats fed a LFD, HFD feeding abolished the vasodilatory actions of globular adiponectin (gAd) and insulin on pre‐constricted distal saphenous arteries. Pretreatment with gAd improved insulin responses in arterioles isolated from HFD rats, which was blocked by AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK) inhibition. Similarly, HFD abolished microvascular responses to either gAd or insulin and decreased insulin‐stimulated glucose disposal by ∼60%. However, supplementing gAd fully rescued insulin's microvascular action and significantly improved the metabolic responses to insulin in HFD male rats and these actions were abolished by inhibition of either AMPK or nitric oxide production. We conclude that HFD induces vascular adiponectin and insulin resistance but gAd administration can restore vascular insulin responses and improve insulin's metabolic action via an AMPK‐ and nitric oxide‐dependent mechanism in male rats.
Coaches’ Perceptions of Team Cohesion in Paralympic Sports
Authors: Falcão William R. , Bloom Gordon A. , Loughead Todd M.
Published: June 2015

The purpose of this study was to investigate Paralympic coaches’ perceptions of team cohesion. Seven head coaches of summer and winter Canadian Paralympic sport teams participated in the study. Four participants coached individual sports and 3 coached team sports. Data were collected using semistructured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. The results addressed the coaches’ perceptions of cohesion in the Paralympic sport setting and strategies used to foster cohesion with their teams. Participants described using techniques and strategies for enhancing cohesion that were similar to those in nondisability sport, such as task-related activities, goal setting, and regularly communicating with their athletes. They also listed how cohesion was distinct to the Paralympic setting, such as the importance of interpersonal activities to build social cohesion. The implications of these results for coaching athletes with a disability are also presented.
Response to Comments on “Number-space mapping in the newborn chick resembles humans’ mental number line”
Authors: Rugani Rosa , Vallortigara Giorgio , Priftis Konstantinos , Regolin Lucia
Published: June 2015

Mangalam and Karve raise concerns on whether our results demonstrate a mental number line, suggesting auxiliary experiments. Further data analyses show that their methodological concerns are not founded. Harshaw suggests that a side bias could have affected our results. We show that this concern is also unfounded.
Vitamin B
12
modulates the transcriptome of the skin microbiota in acne pathogenesis
Authors: Kang Dezhi , Shi Baochen , Erfe Marie C. , Craft Noah , Li Huiying
Published: June 2015

Vitamin B
12
modulates the transcriptional activities of the skin microbiota, leading to acne development.
Evaluation of the Immunogenicity of Mycobacterium bovis BCG Delivered by Aerosol to the Lungs of Macaques
Authors: White A. D. , Sarfas C. , West K. , Sibley L. S. , Wareham A. S. , Clark S. , Dennis M. J. , Williams A. , Marsh P. D. , Sharpe S. A.
Published: June 2015

Nine million cases of tuberculosis (TB) were reported in 2013, with a further 1.5 million deaths attributed to the disease. When delivered as an intradermal (i.d.) injection, the
Mycobacterium bovis
BCG vaccine provides limited protection, whereas aerosol delivery has been shown to enhance efficacy in experimental models. In this study, we used the rhesus macaque model to characterize the mucosal and systemic immune response induced by aerosol-delivered BCG vaccine. Aerosol delivery of BCG induced both Th1 and Th17 cytokine responses. Polyfunctional CD4 T cells were detected in bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) fluid and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) 8 weeks following vaccination in a dose-dependent manner. A similar trend was seen in peripheral gamma interferon (IFN-γ) spot-forming units measured by enzyme-linked immunosorbent spot (ELISpot) assay and serum anti-purified protein derivative (PPD) IgG levels. CD8 T cells predominantly expressed cytokines individually, with pronounced tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) production by BAL fluid cells. T-cell memory phenotype analysis revealed that CD4 and CD8 populations isolated from BAL fluid samples were polarized toward an effector memory phenotype, whereas the frequencies of peripheral central memory T cells increased significantly and remained elevated following aerosol vaccination. Expression patterns of the α4β1 integrin lung homing markers remained consistently high on CD4 and CD8 T cells isolated from BAL fluid and varied on peripheral T cells. This characterization of aerosol BCG vaccination highlights features of the resulting mycobacterium-specific immune response that may contribute to the enhanced protection previously reported in aerosol BCG vaccination studies and will inform future studies involving vaccines delivered to the mucosal surfaces of the lung.
Gait modifications to change lower extremity gait biomechanics in runners: a systematic review
Authors: Napier Christopher , Cochrane Christopher K , Taunton Jack E , Hunt Michael A
Published: June 2015

Background

Abnormal biomechanics have been cited as a potential risk factor for running-related injury. Many modifiable biomechanical risk factors have also been proposed in the literature as interventions via gait retraining.

Aim

To determine which interventions have successfully modified biomechanical variables linked to running-related injury.

Study design

Systematic literature review.

Methods

MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL, SportDiscus and PSYCINFO were searched using key terms related to running biomechanics and gait retraining. Quality of included studies was assessed using the modified Downs and Black Quality Index and a best evidence synthesis was performed.

Results

27 studies investigating the effect of biomechanical interventions on kinetic, kinematic and spatiotemporal variables were included in this review. Foot strike manipulation had the greatest effect on kinematic measures (conflicting evidence for proximal joint angles; strong evidence for distal joint angles), real-time feedback had the greatest effect on kinetic measures (ranging from conflicting to strong evidence), and combined training protocols had the greatest effect on spatiotemporal measures (limited to moderate evidence).

Conclusions

Overall, this systematic review shows that many biomechanical parameters can be altered by running modification training programmes. These interventions result in short term small to large effects on kinetic, kinematic and spatiotemporal outcomes during running. In general, runners tend to employ a distal strategy of gait modification unless given specific cues. The most effective strategy for reducing high-risk factors for running-related injury—such as impact loading—was through real-time feedback of kinetics and/or kinematics.
Pulseless electrical activity arrest due to air embolism during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography: a case report and review of the literature
Authors: Mathew Jacob , Parker Calvin , Wang James
Published: June 2015

While most gastroenterologists are aware of the more common complications of endoscopy such as bleeding, infection and perforation, air embolism remains an under-recognised and difficult to diagnose problem due to its varying modes of presentation. This is the case of a 55-year-old man with right upper quadrant pain and imaging notable for cholecystitis and choledocholithiasis, who underwent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). During the ERCP, and shortly after a sphincterotomy was performed, he became hypotensive and hypoxic, quickly decompensating into pulseless electrical activity. While advanced cardiac life support was initiated, the patient passed away. Autopsy revealed air in the pulmonary artery suggestive of a pulmonary embolism. While air embolism remains a rare complication of upper endoscopy, increased awareness and prompt recognition of signs that may point to this diagnosis may potentially save lives by allowing for earlier possible interventions.
Near-normoglycaemia and development of neuropathy: a 24-year prospective study from diagnosis of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Ziegler Dan , Behler Margarete , Schroers-Teuber Maria , Roden Michael
Published: June 2015

Objective

Complete prevention of diabetic neuropathies has not been previously demonstrated. We sought to determine whether long-term near-normoglycaemia maintained from the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes is associated with polyneuropathy and cardiac autonomic dysfunction.

Design

Prospective observational study over 24 years.

Setting

Ambulatory care.

Participants

32 newly diagnosed patients with type 1 diabetes aged 20.3±1.0 years, duration of diabetes 2.7±0.3 weeks.

Intervention

Insulin therapy according to standards of care.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Motor and sensory nerve conduction velocity (MNCV and SNCV), heart rate variability (HRV), and confirmed clinical polyneuropathy measured at 15 time points over 24 years and quantitative sensory testing (QST) determined over 20–22 years.

Results

11 patients were well controlled over 24 years with mean glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) <7.0% (6.5±0.1%; group 1), whereas 21 patients were poorly controlled (mean HbA1c ≥7.0%: 8.3±0.2%; group 2). After 24 years, MNCV was faster in group 1 versus group 2 in the median (55.5±1.6 vs 48.9±1.6 m/s), ulnar (56.5±1.5 vs 49.3±1.7 m/s) and peroneal nerve (44.7±1.6 vs 36.8±2.5 m/s), while SNCV was faster in the median (53.6±1.6 vs 45.5±2.8 m/s), ulnar (54.7±1.8 vs 43.0±3.9 m/s), and sural nerve (44.5±1.8 vs 35.5±2.6 m/s; all p<0.05). The annual decline in peroneal MNCV and sural SNCV in group 1 was sixfold and threefold faster in group 2 than in group 1, respectively. Likewise, impairment in QST and HRV developed at faster rates in group 2. After 24 years, 64% of patients in group 2, but none in group 1, developed confirmed clinical polyneuropathy.

Conclusions

Near-normoglycaemia maintained from the diagnosis of type 1 diabetes over 24 years was associated with a complete prevention of the decline in hyperglycaemia-related peripheral and autonomic nerve function, and development of confirmed clinical polyneuropathy.
Effectiveness of community-based health services by nurse practitioners: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kanda Mikiko , Ota Erika , Fukuda Hiromi , Miyauchi Shinji , Gilmour Stuart , Kono Yuko , Nakagama Erika , Murashima Sachiyo , Shibuya Kenji
Published: June 2015

Introduction

To realise universal health coverage in an ageing society, adequate provision of appropriately trained human resources is essential. The nurse practitioner (NP) is an autonomous and independent, advanced practice nurse capable of providing treatment and care that can be substituted for some aspects of a medical doctor's (MD's) role, especially in a community setting. Previous systematic reviews found higher levels of patient satisfaction with services provided by NPs than those provided by MDs. As non-communicable diseases become a major health burden requiring long-term healthcare in community settings, this systematic review aims to assess the equivalence of NP services to standard care provided by MDs, and to determine whether their practice is an effective alternative to that of MDs in community settings.

Methods and analysis

Relevant randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster RCTs will be searched in the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and the British Nursing Index. We will assess patient and health system utilisation outcomes of interventions comparing treatment and care provided by NPs in community settings with that provided by MDs. Two authors will independently screen studies for inclusion, consulting with a third author where necessary to resolve discrepancies. The risk of bias of included studies will be assessed using the Cochrane Collaborationrisk of biastool, and quality of evidence using the GRADE approach. Meta-analysis of included studies will be conducted using fixed-effect or random-effects models depending on the degree of between-study heterogeneity. Results will be presented using risk ratios with 95% CI for dichotomous outcomes and standardised mean differences with 95% CI for continuous outcomes.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review and meta-analysis protocol does not require ethical approval. We will disseminate the findings of this systematic review and meta-analysis via publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

PROSPEROCRD42014009627.
Effectiveness, safety and costs of orphan drugs: an evidence-based review
Authors: Onakpoya Igho J , Spencer Elizabeth A , Thompson Matthew J , Heneghan Carl J
Published: June 2015

Introduction

Several orphan drugs have been approved by the European Medicines Agency (EMA) over the past two decades. However, the drugs are expensive, and in some instances, the evidence for effectiveness is not convincing at the time of regulatory approval. Our objective was to evaluate the clinical effectiveness of orphan drugs that have been granted marketing licenses in Europe, determine the annual costs of each drug, compare the costs of branded orphan drugs against their generic equivalents, and explore any relationships between orphan drug disease prevalence and annual costs.

Methods

We searched the EMA database to identify orphan drugs granted marketing authorisation up to April 2014. Electronic searches were also conducted in PubMed, EMBASE and Google Scholar, to assess data on effectiveness, safety and annual costs. 2 reviewers independently evaluated the levels and quality of evidence, and extracted data.

Results

We identified 74 orphan drugs, with 54 (73%) demonstrating moderate quality of evidence. 85% showed significant clinical effects, but serious adverse events were reported in 86.5%. Their annual costs were between £726 and £378 000. There was a significant inverse relationship between disease prevalence and annual costs (p=0.01); this was largely due to the influence of the ultra-orphan diseases. We could not determine whether the balance between effectiveness and safety influenced annual costs. For 10 drugs where generic alternatives were available, the branded drugs were 1.4 to 82 000 times more expensive.

Conclusions

The available evidence suggests that there is inconsistency in the quality of evidence of approved orphan drugs, and there is no clear mechanism for determining their prices. In some cases, far cheaper generic agents appear to be available. A more robust, transparent and standard mechanism for determining annual costs is imperative.