bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
APOA5 genetic and epigenetic variability jointly regulate circulating triacylglycerol levels
Authors: Oliva Iris , Guardiola Montse , Vallvé Joan-Carles , Ibarretxe Daiana , Plana Núria , Masana Lluís , Monk David , Ribalta Josep
Published: September 2016

Apolipoprotein A5 gene (APOA5) variability explains part of the individual's predisposition to hypertriacylglycerolaemia (HTG). Such predisposition has an inherited component (polymorphisms) and an acquired component regulated by the environment (epigenetic modifications). We hypothesize that the integrated analysis of both components will improve our capacity to estimate APOA5 contribution to HTG. We followed a recruit-by-genotype strategy to study a population composed of 44 individuals with high cardiovascular disease risk selected as being carriers of at least one APOA5 SNP (-1131T>C and/or, S19W and/or 724C>G) compared against 34 individuals wild-type (WT) for these SNPs. DNA methylation patterns of three APOA5 regions [promoter, exon 2 and CpG island (CGI) in exon 3] were evaluated using pyrosequencing technology. Carriers of APOA5 SNPs had an average of 57.5% higher circulating triacylglycerol (TG) levels (P=0.039). APOA5 promoter and exon 3 were hypermethylated whereas exon 2 was hypomethylated. Exon 3 methylation positively correlated with TG concentration (r=0.359, P=0.003) and with a lipoprotein profile associated with atherogenic dyslipidaemia. The highest TG concentrations were found in carriers of at least one SNP and with a methylation percentage in exon 3 ≥82% (P=0.009). In conclusion, CGI methylation in exon 3 of APOA5 acts, in combination with -1131T>C, S19W and 724C>G polymorphisms, in the individual's predisposition to high circulating TG levels. This serves as an example that combined analysis of SNPs and methylation applied to a larger set of genes would improve our understanding of predisposition to HTG.
Identification of genetic defects in pulmonary arterial hypertension by a new gene panel diagnostic tool
Authors: Song Jie , Eichstaedt Christina A. , Viales Rebecca Rodríguez , Benjamin Nicola , Harutyunova Satenik , Fischer Christine , Grünig Ekkehard , Hinderhofer Katrin
Published: September 2016

In the present study we developed a new specific gene panel for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) including major disease genes and further candidates. We assessed 37 patients with invasively confirmed PAH and five relatives of affected patients for genetic testing. A new PAH-specific gene panel was designed using next generation sequencing (NGS) including 12 known disease genes and 17 further candidates. Any potential pathogenic variants were reassessed by Sanger sequencing. Twenty-two of the 37 patients (59%) had a mutation in BMPR2, ALK1, ENG or EIF2AK4 genes identified by panel and Sanger sequencing. In addition, 12 unclassified variants were identified in seven genes (known and candidate genes). A sensitivity of 100% was met after quality parameters were adjusted. Specificity increased to 100% when Sanger technique was added as a routine validation. The new PAH-specific gene panel developed in the present study allowed for the first time the assessment of all known PAH genes and further candidates at once and markedly reduced overall sequencing time and costs. Sensitivity and specificity reached 100% when Sanger sequencing was additionally applied. Thus, this technique will potentially change the routine diagnostic genetic testing in PAH patients.
Sensorless model‐based PCC for induction machine
Authors: Wang Fengxiang , Zhang Zhenbin , Wang Junxiao , Rodríguez José
Published: September 2016

Sensorless predictive current control (PCC) for an induction machine is proposed in this study. In the controller, the errors between the current references and the predicted values are evaluated; therefore, it guarantees good current behaviours which are essential to the low‐voltage drives. By designing proper adaptive scheme and gain matrix, a stable sensorless PCC system is achieved. Furthermore, the sensitives of parameters such as stator resistance and magnetic inductance are discussed with both experimental results and theoretic analysis. The sensorless system is carried out experimentally in a very wide‐speed range both with and without loads.
Risk based multi‐objective dynamic expansion planning of sub‐transmission network in order to have eco‐reliability, environmental friendly network with higher power quality
Authors: karimi Masoumeh , Haghifam Mahmoud Reza
Published: September 2016

This study suggests a method based on stochastic multi‐objective modelling for optimally timing, siting and sizing of sub‐transmission substationsand medium voltage feeders, distributed generations and capacitors, simultaneously, in order to take more pros of recent developed technologies. Regards to comprehensive impact of uncertainties including: intermittent nature of renewable energy sources, load forecasting and market price errors, some strategies must be devised in order to well incorporate them into the problem. The mentioned problem is modelled by dynamic programming which NSGA‐2 is chosen for optimisation purposes and then fuzzy set theory is applied to find the best compromise solution. The proposed scheme aims to minimise substations expansion and installation cost, medium voltage feeders installation and replacement cost, DG units installation and operation cost, capacitors installation cost, cost of purchased energy from the transmission network, active and reactive power losses cost, and connection cost of sub‐transmission substations to the upstream network. Besides, risk based modelling of energy not‐supplied as an efficient reliability index is incorporated to cost function in order to improve the reliability of the network. Also voltage deviation and voltage stability as the criterion of power quality in distribution networks and emission reduction are treated as independent objective functions.
Fractional order control of static series synchronous compensator with parametric uncertainty
Authors: Ullah Nasim , Asghar Ali Muhammad , Ahmad Rashid , Khattak Abraiz
Published: September 2016

In modern power systems the smooth control of active power flow is one of the major concerns for power industry. In the current study the authors devise an adaptive fractional order robust damping control system for static series synchronous compensator connected to an infinite power transmission network. A detailed non‐linear state model is presented with inclusion of parametric uncertainties, disturbances and other non‐linearities. A novel fractional order sliding manifold is proposed and based on it an adaptive fractional order controller is derived. The uncertainty in the state model is estimated online using the adaptive control system. The stability and the convergence proof of the closed loop system is verified using fractional order Lyapunov theorem. Furthermore, the proposed control scheme is compared with the classical proportional integral derivative, integer order sliding mode and fractional order controllers under different scenarios. The effectiveness of the proposed control scheme is verified using numerical simulations.
Location information verification using transferable belief model for geographic routing in vehicular ad hoc networks
Authors: Sheet Dalya Khalid , Kaiwartya Omprakash , Abdullah Abdul Hanan , Cao Yue , Hassan Ahmed Nazar , Kumar Sushil
Published: September 2016

Location verification has witnessed significant attention in vehicular communication due to the growth in number of location based intelligent transport system (ITS) applications. The traditional cryptography based techniques have been suggested to secure and verify location of vehicles. The traditional techniques increase protocol complexity and computational overhead due to the ad hoc nature of vehicular network environments. In this context, this study proposes two layered location information verification cum security (LIVES) technique based on transferable belief model (TBM). In layer 1, tiles based verification is performed using the concepts of virtual tiles on roads and received signal strength. In layer 2, TBM based verification is performed. Specifically, the belief of the presence of a vehicle on each tiles, and the belief of the presence of a vehicle as neighbour of other neighbouring vehicles are combined as collective belief to attest the location claim of a neighbour vehicle. The performance of LIVES is evaluated with road‐based and map‐based network environments. The single, mixed and multiple adversary vehicles are considered in both the network environments. The comparative performance evaluations attest the benefits of LIVES as compared with the verification and inference of position using anonymous beaconing and without using LIVES.
Process optimisation and microstructural evolution of friction stir spot-welded Al6061 joints
Authors: Lee S.-H. , Lee D.-M. , Lee K. S.
Published: September 2016

The joint strength and subsequent microstructural evolution of a friction stir spot-welded AA6061-T6 alloy was investigated according to the process parameters: tool rotation speed, dwell time and pin angle of the tool. A maximum tensile shear load of 2.78 kN was obtained from the joints generated under a combination of process variables like 1000 and 1500 rev min−1, 5 s, 5°. Under a fixed pin angle of 5° and a rotational speed of 1000 rev min−1, an increase in dwell time from 1 to 5 s resulted in a considerable increase in tensile shear load. An empirical process map under a fixed tool design is proposed to determine a feasible range of process conditions.
Understanding the Determinants of Hired Skipper Use in the Alaska Halibut Individual Fishing Quota Fishery
Authors: Szymkowiak Marysia , Felthoven Ron
Published: September 2016

There is a growing body of literature evidencing the distributional impacts of leasing in catch-share fisheries but little research on the determinants of the leasing decision itself. This study addresses this gap by using a discrete-choice model to examine the determinants of the decision of quota shareholders to use hired skippers in the individual fishing quota (IFQ) fishery for Pacific Halibut Hippoglossus stenolepis in Alaska. Since the implementation of that Alaska IFQ program, there has been an increasing reliance on hired skippers by initial quota-share recipients in relationships that are often functionally equivalent to leasing. This has hampered the North Pacific Fishery Management Council's efforts to ultimately transition the IFQ catcher-vessel fleet to a group of owner-operators. This study shows that the probability of hiring a skipper is statistically significantly related to the residency and shareholdings of shareholders and identifies potential attributes of shareholdings, including quantity and diversity, which may contribute to more hired skipper use. This information may allow fishery managers to both predict the degree of such practices and to customize regulations that lead to preferred outcomes in program design or modification, as it relates to the IFQ program and other catch-share programs wherein leasing is a common practice prone to controversy.

Received October 9, 2015; accepted April 13, 2016 Published online September 8, 2016
Effect of Waveform and Voltage Gradient on the Survival of Electroshocked Steelhead Embryos and Larvae
Authors: Simpson William G. , Peterson Douglas P. , Steinke Kurt
Published: September 2016

Electrofishing is commonly used to monitor fish populations and to control nuisance or invasive fishes. These applications typically focus on juvenile and adult fish, and comparatively less is known about how early developmental stages of fish are affected by electroshock. We examined the survival of hatchery steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss embryos and larvae exposed to three waveforms often emitted by commercially available electrofishing equipment—AC, square pulsed DC (PDC), and half-sine-wave PDC—at different voltage gradients across six developmental stages. There was a strong negative relationship between voltage gradient and survival of steelhead embryos and larvae. Fish were most resistant to electroshock after embryonic pigmentation had occurred (93% mean survival at 4.5 V/cm) until their sensitivity again increased at the swim-up larval stage (32% mean survival at 2.5 V/cm). The greater survival of embryonic and alevin steelhead exposed to half-sine-wave PDC (42% mean survival at a peak voltage gradient of 2.5 V/cm) compared with square PDC and AC (8% mean embryonic survival at 2.5 V/cm) suggested that root mean square voltage gradient is a stronger determinant of mortality than are peak voltage gradient or alternating polarity. The AC waveforms were more deadly to swim-up larvae than were other waveforms, so the mechanism by which electroshock kills this life stage is probably different than the mechanism that kills steelhead during earlier developmental stages. The results of this study have direct implications to electrofishing in environments where some sympatrically occurring species and developmental stages are not the intended target for electroshock. Accordingly, we offer some simple suggestions for how waveforms can be manipulated to limit, or increase, the mortality of fishes where electrofishing is used as a management or conservation tool.

Received December 17, 2015; accepted April 25, 2016 Published online September 8, 2016
The glycosylation stoichiometry of EWS species in neuronal cells
Authors: Kamemura Kazuo , Abe Hiromi
Published: September 2016

Although Ewing sarcoma protein (EWS) is known to be glycosylated by O-linked β-N-acetylglucosamine (O-GlcNAc), the dynamics and stoichiometry of its glycosylation remain obscure. Here, we report a dynamic change in the glycosylation stoichiometry of EWS species during neuronal differentiation of embryonic carcinoma P19 cells. Our findings suggest that O-GlcNAc glycosylation participates in the regulation of EWS functions in neuronal cells.
Single-site substitutions improve cold activity and increase thermostability of the dehairing alkaline protease (DHAP)
Authors: Zhao Hong-Yan , Wu Li-Ying , Liu Gang , Feng Hong
Published: September 2016

To engineer dehairing alkaline protease (DHAP) variants to improve cold activity and increase thermostability so these variants are suitable for the leather processing industry. Based on previous studies with bacterial alkaline proteases, double-site mutations (W106K/V149I and W106K/M124L) were introduced into the DHAP from Bacillus pumilus. Compared with the wild-type DHAP hydrolytic activity, the double-site variant W106K/V149I showed an increase in specific hydrolytic activity at 15 °C by 2.3-fold toward casein in terms of hydrolytic rate and 2.7-fold toward the synthetic peptide AAPF-pN by means of kcat/Km value. The thermostability of the variant (W106K/V149I) was improved with the half-life at 60 and 70 °C increased by 2.7- and 5.0-fold, respectively, when compared with the thermostability of the wild-type DHAP. Conclusively, an increase in the cold activity and thermostability of a bacterial alkaline protease was achieved by protein engineering.
Cloning and heterologous expression of a novel subgroup of class IV polyhydroxyalkanoate synthase genes from the genus Bacillus
Authors: Mizuno Kouhei , Kihara Takahiro , Tsuge Takeharu , Lundgren Benjamin R , Sarwar Zaara , Pinto Atahualpa , Nomura Christopher T
Published: September 2016

Many microorganisms harbor genes necessary to synthesize biodegradable plastics known as polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs). We surveyed a genomic database and discovered a new cluster of class IV PHA synthase genes (phaRC). These genes are different in sequence and operon structure from any previously reported PHA synthase. The newly discovered PhaRC synthase was demonstrated to produce PHAs in recombinant Escherichia coli.
Synthesis and evaluation of L-cystathionine as a standard for amino acid analysis
Authors: Amino Yusuke , Suzuki Yumiko
Published: September 2016

L-Cystathionine is a key nonprotein amino acid related to metabolic conditions. The quantitative determination of L-cystathionine in physiological fluids by amino acid analysis is important for clinical diagnosis; however, certified reference material for L-cystathionine with satisfactory purity, content, and quantity has been unavailable until recently. Consequently, a practical and simple method for the preparation of L-cystathionine was examined, which involves thioalkylation of N-tert-butoxycarbonyl-L-cysteine tert-butyl ester, derived from L-cystine, with (2S)-2-(tert-butoxycarbonyl)amino-4-iodobutanoic acid tert-butyl ester, derived from L-aspartic acid, to obtain L-cystathionine with protecting groups, followed by single-step deprotection under mild conditions. This method produces L-cystathionine in high purity (99.4%) and having sufficient percentage content according to amino acid analysis, which could be used as a standard for the amino acid analysis of physiological fluids.
Fatigue properties of ferrite/bainite dual-phase X80 pipeline steel welded joints
Authors: Zhao Z-P. , Qiao G-Y. , Li G-P. , Yang W-W. , Liao B. , Xiao F-R.
Published: September 2016

Fatigue properties are important parameters for the safety design and security evaluation of pipelines. In this work, fatigue life and fatigue crack propagation of full-thickness X80 pipeline steel joints compared with the base metal (BM) was investigated. Full-thickness BM specimens showed superior fatigue life compared with that of welded joints. The fatigue crack initiation of full-thickness X80 welded joint specimens occurred at the outside weld toe and then grew inward until a fracture was formed. During fatigue crack growth in the heat-affected zone (HAZ), crack growth rate linearly increased with increased Δ K in each HAZ subregion. However, the change rate of fatigue crack growth rate (d a/d N) differed among HAZ subregions. This difference was related to the variation in crack path and fracture mode because of the possible microstructural sensitivity of fatigue crack propagation behaviour.
Similar and dissimilar resistance spot weldability of galvanised DP1000 and TWIP980 steels
Authors: Wei S. T. , Lv D. , Liu R. D. , Lin L.
Published: September 2016

Similar and dissimilar combinations of a 1000 MPa galvanised dual phase (DP) steel and a 980 MPa twining-induced plasticity (TWIP) steel were resistance spot welded under different welding parameters. The microstructure, expulsion situation, nugget size and mechanical properties of spot welds were evaluated systematically. The results showed that the differences of microstructure and chemical compositions caused that the weld nugget hardness increases in the order of TWIP/TWIP, DP/TWIP and DP/DP. The lower melting point and heat conductivity of the TWIP steel and the lower electric resistance of the zinc coat on the DP steel caused that the expulsion occurring current increased in the order of TWIP/TWIP, DP/TWIP and DP/DP and under the same welding condition the nugget diameter increased in the order of DP/DP, DP/TWIP and TWIP/TWIP. Furthermore, the tensile shear failure mode and location depends on the nugget size, microstructure and hardness distribution of spot weld.
Sport‐specific factors predicting player retention in junior cricket
Authors: Talpey Scott , Croucher Tom , Bani Mustafa Ahmed , Finch Caroline F.
Published: September 2016

Understanding factors that motivate young athletes to continue participation in sport can help key stakeholders cultivate an environment that fosters long‐term participation. This investigation sought to determine the performance and participation factors that influenced continued participation in junior cricket. Administration‐level data were collected each annual season across a seven‐year period by a community‐level junior cricket association in Australia and analysed to identify the performance and participation‐based predictors of player retention. All players were males aged <16 years. Players were categorised according to whether they remained in (or departed from) the association at the end of each playing season. A multivariate logistic regression model with a stepwise variable selection was employed to identify significant independent predictors of player retention. The number of innings batted and overs bowled were significant participation‐related contributors to junior cricket player retention. Performance factors such as the number of wickets taken and the number of runs scored also significantly influenced player retention. Finally, team age group, the number of previous seasons played and age were also significant factors in player retention. This demonstrates that sufficient opportunity for children to participate in the game and expression of skills competence are key factors for retention in cricket.
Playing outdoor and practising sport: A study of physical activity levels in Portuguese children
Authors: Silva Paula , Santos Maria Paula
Published: September 2016

In outdoor activities, it seems reasonable that the longer children spend in spontaneous physical activity (PA), the higher the probability of being active. Indeed, the time spent outdoor has been identified as a variable consistently associated with the children's PA. Outdoor playing, such as the organized sports practice, appears associated with healthier lifestyle standards. All the recommendations mention the importance of increasing daily PA practice in children and teenagers, but few studies highlight the relationship between outdoor play and the recommended PA levels. The purpose of this study is to investigate the relationships between the frequency of outdoor play, the frequency of the organized sports practice, and the compliance of the recommendations for PA practice in children in the inner city area of Porto. The sample of this study is composed of 422 individuals (mean age of 11.6 years). Two hundred and twenty‐five of them were girls and 197 were boys from the sixth grade (elementary schools located in the inner city area of Porto). PA was objectively evaluated using accelerometers. Participants reported frequency of participation in different PA contexts, such as sports practice and outdoor play. The results show a predictor effect of participating in sports three or more times per week on compliance of PA guidelines.

In conclusion, organized sports practice seems more effective than outdoor play to reach the recommended levels of PA in children.
The Effects of Increasing Semantic-Associate List Length on the Deese–Roediger–McDermott False Recognition Memory: Dual False-Memory Process in Retrieval from Sub- and Supraspan Lists
Authors: Jou Jerwen , Arredondo Mario L. , Li Cheng , Escamilla Eric E. , Zuniga Richard
Published: September 2016

In this study, the number of semantic associates in Deese–Roediger–McDermott (DRM) lists was varied from 4 to 14 in a modified Sternberg paradigm. The false alarm (FA) and correct rejection (CR) reaction time (RT)/memory-set size (MSS) functions of critical lures showed a cross-over interaction at approximately MSS 7, suggesting a reversal of the relative dominance between these two responses to the critical lure at this point and also indicating the location of the boundary between the sub- and supraspan MSS. For the subspan lists, FA to critical lures was slower than CR, suggesting a slow, strategic mechanism driving the false memory. Conversely, for the supraspan lists, critical lure FA was faster than its CR, suggesting a spontaneous mechanism driving the false memory. Results of two experiments showed that an automatic, fast, and a slow, controlled process could be error-prone or error-corrective, depending on the length of the DRM memory list. Thus there is a dual retrieval process in false memory as in true memory. The findings can be explained by both the activation/monitoring and the fuzzy-trace theories.
Multiple Attentional Sets While Monitoring Rapid Serial Visual Presentations
Authors: Kawahara Jun I. , Kumada Takatsune
Published: September 2016

The present study examined whether observers are able to establish multiple attentional sets to concurrently monitor two different spatial locations. Observers identified a target letter in red or cyan among nontarget letters of other heterogeneous colours during a temporal feature search. A peripheral distractor display consisted of one item of either the same colour as the current target, and the other potential target colour, or an irrelevant colour that could never be the target. They identified an odd-ball colour letter among homogenous colours during a singleton search. The results revealed that observers maintained multiple attentional sets for detecting two singletons or for targets involving two (or three) features. However, they were unable to maintain a mixture of sets. Moreover, exposure to a distractor containing feature that corresponded to a feature of the current target was advantageous for target identification. The presence or absence of this set-specific capture depended on top-down knowledge and did not occur automatically in the singleton-detection stream. These results demonstrate a limitation in the flexibility of attentional sets. Although two singleton detections were possible, multiple attentional templates for a more complex attentional set could not be maintained concurrently when monitoring multiple rapid serial visual presentations.
Atlantic Cod Show a Highly Variable Sensitivity to Electric-Induced Spinal Injuries
Authors: Soetaert M. , De Haan D. , Verschueren B. , Decostere A. , Puvanendran V. , Saunders J. , Polet H. , Chiers K.
Published: September 2016

Pulse trawling is the most promising alternative to conventional beam trawls targeting Sole Solea solea (also known as Solea vulgaris), but due to the electric fields created by electrotrawls spinal injuries are reported in gadoid round fishes such as Atlantic Cod Gadus morhua. This study aimed to investigate the variability in the occurrence of electric-induced spinal injuries in cod. Four groups of cod, each originating from a different wild or farmed stock, were exposed to the pulses used by electrotrawls targeting Sole. Effects were analyzed based on behavior, mortality, and lesions up to 14 d after exposure, and morphological characteristics such as size, somatic weight, muscularity, the number of vertebral bodies, and the vertebral mineral contents of animals were compared among different cohorts. Second, the influence of factors such as water temperature, electrode diameter, and pulse type and amplitude were tested. Electrode diameter and pulse amplitude showed a positive correlation with the intensity of the fish's reaction. However, the present experiments confirmed that cod also show variable vulnerability, with injury rates ranging from 0% to 70% after (almost) identical exposures near the electrode. This indicates that these injuries are not only determined by the pulse parameter settings but also by subtle, fish-specific factors. Although the absence of a sensitive group of cod did not enable the elucidation of the conclusive factor, the effect of physiological and morphological factors such as intervertebral ligaments and rearing conditions during early life merit further attention in future research.

Received September 3, 2015; accepted March 16, 2016
Genetic Variability and Population Structure of Gulf Menhaden Compared with Yellowfin Menhaden
Authors: Anderson Joel D. , Torres Autumn D.
Published: September 2016

Gulf Menhaden Brevoortia patronus is one of the most intensively fished organisms in the Gulf of Mexico. Fishery managers and industry operators have historically worked towards a sustainable fishery and have cooperated on stock assessments to estimate feasible reference points for management. These stock assessments are necessarily rooted in a strong definition of the fishery stock, including the estimation of the number of populations that are exploited. Here, genetic population structure and variability were examined in B. patronus, using genetic markers specifically designed for the species. We observed genetic variability that indicates a relatively high effective population size for a marine finfish (Ne ≥ 1,200), and two analytical approaches implied a single genetic population of B. patronus. We compared the latter finding with the population structure in the closely related Yellowfin Menhaden B. smithi, for which two distinct populations from Florida were identified using the same genetic loci (Fst = 0.015, P = 0.027). These contrasting patterns of population structure between sympatric congeneric species are likely driven by differences in distribution and census size and may relate to factors that originally drove speciation in North American Brevoortia species. The finding of a single Gulf-wide population of B. patronus suggests that there is an extensive migration throughout the species range and supports the notion of a single genetic stock.

Received February 8, 2016; accepted April 5, 2016
Root-endophytes improve the ecophysiological performance and production of an agricultural species under drought condition
Authors: Molina-Montenegro Marco A. , Oses Rómulo , Torres-Díaz Cristian , Atala Cristian , Zurita-Silva Andrés , Ruiz-Lara Simón
Published: September 2016

Throughout many regions of the world, climate change has limited the availability of water for irrigating crops. Indeed, current models of climate change predict that arid and semi-arid zones will be places where precipitation will drastically decrease. In this context, plant root-associated fungi appear as a new strategy to improve ecophysiological performance and yield of crops under abiotic stress. Thus, use of fungal endophytes from ecosystems currently subjected to severe drought conditions could improve the ecophysiological performance and quantum yield of crops exposed to drought. In this study, we evaluated how the inoculation of fungal endophytes isolated from Antarctic plants can improve the net photosynthesis, water use efficiency and production of fresh biomass in a lettuce cultivar, grown under different water availability regimes. In addition, we assessed if the presence of biochemical mechanisms and gene expression related with environmental tolerance are improved in presence of fungal endophytes. Overall, those individuals with presence of endophytes showed higher net photosynthesis and maintained higher water use efficiency in drought conditions, which was correlated with greater fresh and dry biomass production as well as greater root system development. In addition, presence of fungal endophytes was correlated with a higher proline concentration, lower peroxidation of lipids and up-/down-regulation of ion homeostasis. Our results suggest that presence of fungal endophytes could minimize the negative effect of drought by improving drought tolerance through biochemical mechanisms and improving nutritional status. Thus, root-endophytes might be a successful biotechnological tool to maintain high levels of ecophysiological performance and productivity in zones under drought.
Neutron relative biological effectiveness in Hiroshima and Nagasaki atomic bomb survivors: a critical review
Authors: Sasaki Masao S. , Endo Satoru , Hoshi Masaharu , Nomura Taisei
Published: September 2016

The calculated risk of cancer in humans due to radiation exposure is based primarily on long-term follow-up studies, e.g. the life-span study (LSS) on atomic bomb (A-bomb) survivors in Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Since A-bomb radiation consists of a mixture of γ-rays and neutrons, it is essential that the relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of neutrons is adequately evaluated if a study is to serve as a reference for cancer risk. However, the relatively small neutron component hampered the direct estimation of RBE in LSS data. To circumvent this problem, several strategies have been attempted, including dose-independent constant RBE, dose-dependent variable RBE, and dependence on the degrees of dominance of intermingled γ-rays. By surveying the available literature, we tested the chromosomal RBE of neutrons as the biological endpoint for its equivalence to the microdosimetric quantities obtained using a tissue-equivalent proportional counter (TEPC) in various neutron fields. The radiation weighting factor, or quality factor, Qn, of neutrons as expressed in terms of the energy dependence of the maximum RBE, RBEm, was consistent with that predicted by the TEPC data, indicating that the chromosomally measured RBE was independent of the magnitude of coexisting γ-rays. The obtained neutron RBE, which varied with neutron dose, was confirmed to be the most adequate RBE system in terms of agreement with the cancer incidence in A-bomb survivors, using chromosome aberrations as surrogate markers. With this RBE system, the cancer risk in A-bomb survivors as expressed in unit dose of reference radiation is equally compatible with Hiroshima and Nagasaki cities, and may be potentially applicable in other cases of human radiation exposure.
Epistatic and Independent Effects on Schizophrenia-Related Phenotypes Following Co-disruption of the Risk Factors Neuregulin-1 × DISC1
Authors: O’Tuathaigh Colm M. P. , Fumagalli Fabio , Desbonnet Lieve , Perez-Branguli Francesc , Moloney Gerard , Loftus Samim , O’Leary Claire , Petit Emilie , Cox Rachel , Tighe Orna , Clarke Gerard , Lai Donna , Harvey Richard P. , Cryan John F. , Mitchell Kevin J. , Dinan Timothy G. , Riva Marco A. , Waddington John L.
Published: September 2016

Few studies have addressed likely gene × gene (ie, epistatic) interactions in mediating risk for schizophrenia. Using a preclinical genetic approach, we investigated whether simultaneous disruption of the risk factors Neuregulin-1 (NRG1) and Disrupted-in-schizophrenia 1 (DISC1) would produce a disease-relevant phenotypic profile different from that observed following disruption to either gene alone. NRG1 heterozygotes exhibited hyperactivity and disruption to prepulse inhibition, both reversed by antipsychotic treatment, and accompanied by reduced striatal dopamine D2 receptor protein expression, impaired social cognition, and altered glutamatergic synaptic protein expression in selected brain areas. Single gene DISC1 mutants demonstrated a disruption in social cognition and nest-building, altered brain 5-hydroxytryptamine levels and hippocampal ErbB4 expression, and decreased cortical expression of the schizophrenia-associated microRNA miR-29b. Co-disruption of DISC1 and NRG1, indicative of epistasis, evoked an impairment in sociability and enhanced self-grooming, accompanied by changes in hypothalamic oxytocin/vasopressin gene expression. The findings indicate specific behavioral correlates and underlying cellular pathways downstream of main effects of DNA variation in the schizophrenia-associated genes NRG1 and DISC1.
Pain in Extrapyramidal Neurodegenerative Diseases
Authors: Yust-Katz Shlomit , Hershkovitz Ronly , Gurevich Tanya , Djaldetti Ruth
Published: September 2016

Objective:

Pain is one of the most common nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson disease (PD) and other Parkinson plus syndromes, with a major effect on quality of life. The aims of the study were to examine the prevalence and characteristics of pain in PD and other Parkinson plus syndromes and patient use and response to pain medications.

Methods:

The cohort consisted of 371 patients: 300 (81%) with PD and 71 (19%) with Parkinson plus syndromes. Data on clinical parameters and pain were collected by questionnaire. Disease severity was measured with the Unified PD Rating Scale for patients with PD.

Results:

Pain was reported by 277 patients (74%): 241 with PD and 36 with Parkinson plus syndromes. The prevalence of pain was significantly higher in the patients with PD than in the patients with Parkinson plus syndromes (80% vs. 50%, P<0.001) and higher in patients with synucleinopathies than in patients with tauopathies (70% vs. 40%, P<0.001). In the synucleinopathies, the most common pain was central pain (32%), whereas in the tauopathies only 4% of patients had central pain. Anti-Parkinson treatment relieved the pain in 21% of the patients with PD. Only 114 patients (48%) who experienced pain were treated with pain medications. The most beneficial analgesics were nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and medical cannabis.

Conclusion:

Pain is prevalent among patients with PD and Parkinsonian plus syndromes. Pain relief can be achieved by more intensive anti-Parkinson medications or pain medications.
Neural Correlates of Sevoflurane-induced Unconsciousness Identified by Simultaneous Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging and Electroencephalography
Authors: Ranft Andreas , Golkowski Daniel , Kiel Tobias , Riedl Valentin , Kohl Philipp , Rohrer Guido , Pientka Joachim , Berger Sebastian , Thul Alexander , Maurer Max , Preibisch Christine , Zimmer Claus , Mashour George A. , Kochs Eberhard F. , Jordan Denis , Ilg Rüdiger
Published: September 2016

Background

The neural correlates of anesthetic-induced unconsciousness have yet to be fully elucidated. Sedative and anesthetic states induced by propofol have been studied extensively, consistently revealing a decrease of frontoparietal and thalamocortical connectivity. There is, however, less understanding of the effects of halogenated ethers on functional brain networks.

Methods

The authors recorded simultaneous resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging and electroencephalography in 16 artificially ventilated volunteers during sevoflurane anesthesia at burst suppression and 3 and 2 vol% steady-state concentrations for 700 s each to assess functional connectivity changes compared to wakefulness. Electroencephalographic data were analyzed using symbolic transfer entropy (surrogate of information transfer) and permutation entropy (surrogate of cortical information processing). Functional magnetic resonance imaging data were analyzed by an independent component analysis and a region-of-interest–based analysis.

Results

Electroencephalographic analysis showed a significant reduction of anterior-to-posterior symbolic transfer entropy and global permutation entropy. At 2 vol% sevoflurane concentrations, frontal and thalamic networks identified by independent component analysis showed significantly reduced within-network connectivity. Primary sensory networks did not show a significant change. At burst suppression, all cortical networks showed significantly reduced functional connectivity. Region-of-interest–based thalamic connectivity at 2 vol% was significantly reduced to frontoparietal and posterior cingulate cortices but not to sensory areas.

Conclusions

Sevoflurane decreased frontal and thalamocortical connectivity. The changes in blood oxygenation level dependent connectivity were consistent with reduced anterior-to-posterior directed connectivity and reduced cortical information processing. These data advance the understanding of sevoflurane-induced unconsciousness and contribute to a neural basis of electroencephalographic measures that hold promise for intraoperative anesthesia monitoring.
Unplanned, Postoperative Intubation in Pediatric Surgical Patients
Authors: Cheon Eric C. , Palac Hannah L. , Paik Kristine H. , Hajduk John , De Oliveira Gildasio S. , Jagannathan Narasimhan , Suresh Santhanam
Published: September 2016

Background

To date, the independent predictors and outcomes of unplanned postoperative intubation (UPI) in pediatric patients after noncardiac surgery are yet to be characterized. The authors aimed to identify the incidence and predictors of this event and evaluated the effect of this event on postoperative mortality.

Methods

Data of 87,920 patients from the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program Pediatric database were analyzed and assigned to derivation (n = 58,614; 66.7%) or validation (n = 29,306; 33.3%) cohorts. The derivation cohort was analyzed for the incidence and independent predictors of early UPI. The final multivariable logistic regression model was validated using the validation cohort.

Results

Early UPI occurred with an incidence of 0.2% in both cohorts. Among the 540 patients who experienced a UPI, 178 (33.0%) were intubated within the first 72 h after surgery. The final logistic regression model indicated operation time, severe cardiac risk factors, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status classification more than or equal to 2, tumor involving the central nervous system, developmental delay/impaired cognitive function, past or current malignancy, and neonate status as independent predictors of early UPI. Having an early UPI was associated with an increased risk of unadjusted, all-cause 30-day mortality, demonstrating an odds ratio of 11.4 (95% CI, 5.8 to 22.4).

Conclusions

Pediatric patients who experienced an early UPI after noncardiac surgery had an increased likelihood of unadjusted 30-day mortality by more than 11-fold. Identification of high-risk patients can allow for targeted intervention and potential prevention of such outcomes.
A Valuable but Demanding Time Family Life During Advanced Cancer in an Elderly Family Member
Authors: Fjose Marianne , Eilertsen Grethe , Kirkevold Marit , Grov Ellen Karine
Published: September 2016

This study explores experiences of elderly patients with cancer and their family members with regard to what is important and difficult in the family relationships during the palliative phase. Family group interviews were conducted with 26 families. The data were analyzed using qualitative content analysis. Three themes emerged: “Ensuring a positive final time together,” “Avoiding tension and conflict,” and “Concealing thoughts, feelings, and needs.” The main theme, “A valuable but demanding time,” indicates that although families find this phase of life challenging, they emphasize the importance of ensuring that this time is spent together in a positive way as a family.
Effects of Myofascial Release in Nonspecific Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Arguisuelas María D. , Lisón Juan Francisco , Sánchez-Zuriaga Daniel , Martínez-Hurtado Isabel , Doménech-Fernández Julio
Published: September 2016

Study Design.

Double-blind, randomized parallel sham-controlled trial with concealed allocation and intention-to treat analysis.

Objective.

To investigate the effects of an isolate myofascial release (MFR) protocol on pain, disability, and fear-avoidance beliefs in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP).

Summary of Background Data.

MFR is a form of manual medicine widely used by physiotherapists in the management of different musculoskeletal pathologies. Up to this moment, no previous studies have reported the effects of an isolated MFR treatment in patients with CLBP.

Methods.

Fifty-four participants, with nonspecific CLBP, were randomized to MFR group (n = 27) receiving four sessions of myofascial treatment, each lasting 40 minutes, and to control group (n = 27) receiving a sham MFR. Variables studied were pain measured by means Short Form McGill Pain Questionnaire (SF-MPQ) and visual analog scale (VAS), disability measured with Roland Morris Questionnaire, and fear-avoidance beliefs measured with Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire.

Results.

Subjects receiving MFR displayed significant improvements in pain (SF-MPQ) (mean difference −7.8; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −14.5 to −1.1, P = 0.023) and sensory SF-MPQ subscale (mean difference −6.1; 95% CI: −10.8 to −1.5, P = 0.011) compared to the sham group, but no differences were found in VAS between groups. Disability and the Fear-Avoidance Beliefs Questionnaire score also displayed a significant decrease in the MFR group (P < 0.05) as compared to sham MFR.

Conclusion.

MFR therapy produced a significant improvement in both pain and disability. Because the minimal clinically important differences in pain and disability are, however, included in the 95% CI, we cannot know whether this improvement is clinically relevant.

Level of Evidence: 2
Storytelling in the Early Bereavement Period to Reduce Emotional Distress Among Surrogates Involved in a Decision to Limit Life Support in the ICU: A Pilot Feasibility Trial*
Authors: Barnato Amber E. , Schenker Yael , Tiver Greer , Dew Mary Amanda , Arnold Robert M. , Nunez Eduardo R. , Reynolds Charles F.
Published: September 2016

Objectives:

Surrogate decision makers involved in decisions to limit life support for an incapacitated patient in the ICU have high rates of adverse emotional health outcomes distinct from normal processes of grief and bereavement. Narrative self-disclosure (storytelling) reduces emotional distress after other traumatic experiences. We sought to assess the feasibility, acceptability, and tolerability of storytelling among bereaved surrogates involved in a decision to limit life support in the ICU.

Design:

Pilot single-blind trial.

Setting:

Five ICUs across three hospitals within a single health system between June 2013 and November 2014.

Subjects:

Bereaved surrogates of ICU patients.

Interventions:

Storytelling and control conditions involved printed bereavement materials and follow-up assessments. Storytelling involved a single 1- to 2-hour home or telephone visit by a trained interventionist who elicited the surrogate’s story.

Measurements and Main Results:

The primary outcomes were feasibility (rates of enrollment, intervention receipt, 3- and 6-mo follow-up), acceptability (closed and open-ended end-of-study feedback at 6 mo), and tolerability (acute mental health services referral). Of 53 eligible surrogates, 32 (60%) consented to treatment allocation. Surrogates’ mean age was 55.5 (sd, 11.8), and they were making decisions for their parent (47%), spouse (28%), sibling (13%), child (3%), or other relation (8%). We allocated 14 to control and 18 to storytelling, 17 of 18 (94%) received storytelling, 14 of 14 (100%) and 13 of 14 (94%) control subjects and 16 of 18 (89%) and 17 of 18 (94%) storytelling subjects completed their 3- and 6-month telephone assessments. At 6 months, nine of 13 control participants (69%) and 16 of 17 storytelling subjects (94%) reported feeling “better” or “much better,” and none felt “much worse.” One control subject (8%) and one storytelling subject (6%) said that the study was burdensome, and one control subject (8%) wished they had not participated. No subjects required acute mental health services referral.

Conclusion:

A clinical trial of storytelling in this study population is feasible, acceptable, and tolerable.