bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Functional analysis of recombinant 2‐Cys peroxiredoxin from the hard tick Haemaphysalis longicornis
Authors: Kusakisako K. , Masatani T. , Miyata T. , Galay R. L. , Maeda H. , Talactac M. R. , Tsuji N. , Mochizuki M. , Fujisaki K. , Tanaka T.
Published: October 2015

Ticks are obligate haematophagous arthropods that feed on vertebrate blood containing high levels of iron. The host‐derived iron reacts to oxygen in the tick's body, and then high levels of reactive oxygen species, including hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), may be generated. High levels of H2O2 cause oxidative stress to aerobic organisms. Therefore, antioxidant responses are necessary to control H2O2. We focused on peroxiredoxins (Prxs), H2O2‐scavenging enzymes. The sequence of Haemaphysalis longicornis 2‐Cys Prx (HlPrx2) was identified from fat body cDNA libraries of this tick and recombinant HlPrx2 was then prepared using Escherichia coli. By comparison with the 2‐Cys Prxs of other organisms, we found two conserved cysteines in HlPrx2, Cys51 and Cys172. We examined the antioxidant activity of HlPrx2 and mutant proteins produced by a single base substitution, converting one or both of these cysteines into serines. The assays revealed that proteins containing Cys51 showed antioxidant activity when H2O2 was removed. Sodium dodecyl sulphate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis and size‐exclusion chromatography demonstrated that only the wild‐type HlPrx2 formed homodimers and that all of the proteins that we made had a high molecular weight peak. These results indicate that both Cys51 and Cys172 are essential for the dimerization of HlPrx2, whereas only the Cys51 residue is necessary for antioxidant activity.
Can technologies make a difference for hospitalized youth: Findings from research
Authors: Maor D. , Mitchem K.J.
Published: October 2015

Children and youth who are hospitalized for a short or long term become socially isolated from their family, school and classmates. As their isolation increases, so does their vulnerability as a result of disrupted schooling. Research studies suggest different ways of using technologies to overcome this isolation and support children during this critical time of their lives. With technology for children in hospitals becoming increasingly commonplace, evaluating how it is used and its impact on children's learning and well‐being is necessary. In this paper, we systematically evaluated existing research on use of technologies for communication, support and educational purposes and its contribution to the well‐being of hospitalized children. A rigorous selection process yielded 14 research articles meeting the following criteria: empirical studies, using technologies for network of support, targeting hospitalized children and adolescents and targeting learning or social and emotional well‐being in the last decade. This review indicates that the use of technologies with children and youth in hospitals generally increased their potential for learning and improved connectivity with school. Our findings revealed that implementing digital pedagogies and creating online communities were helpful but underutilized features in the research.
Reduction of blood pressure by store‐operated calcium channel blockers
Authors: Xu Yan‐Jun , Elimban Vijayan , Dhalla Naranjan S.
Published: October 2015

The voltage‐operated Ca2+ channels (VOCC), which allow Ca2+ influx from the extracellular space, are inhibited by anti‐hypertensive agents such as verapamil and nifedipine. The Ca2+ entering from outside into the cell triggers Ca2+ release from the sarcoplasmic reticulum (SR) stores. To refill the depleted Ca2+ stores in the SR, another type of Ca2+ channels in the cell membrane, known as store‐operated Ca2+ channels (SOCC), are activated. These SOCCs are verapamil and nifedipine resistant, but are SKF 96465 (SK) and gadolinium (Gd3+) sensitive. Both SK and Gd3+ have been shown to reduce [Ca2+]i in the smooth muscle, but their effects on blood pressure have not been reported. Our results demonstrated that both SK and Gd3+ produced a dose‐dependent reduction in blood pressure in rat. The combination of SK and verapamil produced an additive action in lowering the blood pressure. Furthermore, SK, but not Gd3+ suppressed proliferation of vascular smooth muscle cells in the absence or presence of lysophosphatidic acid (LPA). SK decreased the elevation of [Ca2+]i induced by LPA, endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and angiotensin II (Ang II), but did not affect the norepinephrine (NE)‐evoked increase in [Ca2+]i. On the other hand, Gd3+ inhibited the LPA and Ang II induced change in [Ca2+]i, but had no effect on the ET‐1 and NE induced increase in [Ca2+]i. The combination of verapamil and SK abolished the LPA‐ or adenosine‐5′‐triphosphate (ATP)‐induced [Ca2+]i augmentation. These results suggest that SOCC inhibitors, like VOCC blocker, may serve as promising drugs for the treatment of hypertension.
In vitro morphology, viability and cytokine secretion of uterine telocyte‐activated mouse peritoneal macrophages
Authors: Chi Chi , Jiang Xiao‐Juan , Su Lei , Shen Zong‐Ji , Yang Xiao‐Jun
Published: October 2015

Telocytes (TCs), a distinct interstitial cell population, have been identified in the uterus, oviduct and placenta, with multiple proposed potential biological functions. Their unique structure allows them to form intercellular junctions with various immunocytes, both in normal and diseased tissues, suggesting a potential functional relationship with the local immune response. It has been hypothesized that through direct heterocellular junctions or indirect paracrine effects, TCs influence the activity of local immunocytes that are involved in the inflammatory process and in immune‐mediated reproductive abnormalities. However, no reliable cytological evidence for this hypothesis is currently available. In this study, we cultured primary murine uterine TCs and collected TC conditioned media (TCM). Mouse peritoneal macrophages (pMACs) were co‐cultured for 48 hrs with TCM or with DMEM/F12 or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) as negative and positive controls, respectively. Normal uterine TCs with a typical structure and a CD‐34‐positive/vimentin‐positive/c‐kit‐negative immunophenotype were observed during culture. Morphologically, TCM‐treated pMACs displayed an obvious activation/immunoresponse, in contrast to over‐stimulation and cell death after LPS treatment and no sign of activation in the presence of DMEM/F12. Accordingly, a cell counting kit 8 (CCK‐8) assay indicated significant activation of pMACs by TCM and LPS compared to DMEM/F12, thus supporting the marked morphological differences among these groups of cells. Furthermore, within a panel of macrophage‐derived cytokines/enzymes, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and inducible nitric oxide synthase were significantly elevated in TCM‐treated pMACs; tumour necrosis factor α, IL1‐R1, and IL‐10 were slightly, but significantly, up‐regulated; and no changes were observed for transforming growth factor‐β1, IL‐1β, IL‐23α and IL‐18. Our results indicate that TCs are not simply innocent bystanders but are rather functional players in the activation of pMACs; they trigger and maintain the immune response, likely through indirect paracrine effects. Thus, we provide preliminary in vitro evidence of immunoregulatory and immunosurveillance roles for TCs.
Induction and characterization of a lysogenic bacteriophage of Lactococcus garvieae isolated from marine fish species
Authors: Hoai T D , Yoshida T
Published: October 2015

This study investigated the presence of prophages in Lactococcus garvieae isolated from several marine fish species in Japan. Representative strains of 16 bacterial genotypes (S1–S16) selected from more than 400 L. garvieae isolates were used to induce lysogenic bacteriophages. These strains were treated with 500 ng mL−1 freshly prepared mitomycin C. A cross‐spotting assay was performed to validate the lysogenic and indicator strains. The lysogenic strains were selected for isolation and concentration of the phages. Phage DNA was digested with EcoRI for biased sinusoidal field gel electrophoresis analysis. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) was used to detect integrated prophage DNA. Of the 16 representative bacterial genotypes, 12 strains integrated prophages as indicated by the PCR assay, and 10 phages were detected and isolated using two indicator bacterial strains. Analysis of genomic DNA showed that these phages were homologous and named as PLgT‐1. Transmission electron microscopy revealed that the morphology of PLgT‐1 was consistent with the virus family Siphoviridae. PCR analysis of the prophage DNA revealed that all of the S1 genotype strains were lysogenic (30/30), but none of the S16 genotype strains were lysogenic (0/30). This is the first study to investigate lysogenic bacteriophages from L. garvieae.
Physicochemical Properties of Chitosan Films Incorporated with Honeysuckle Flower Extract for Active Food Packaging
Authors: Wang Liyan , Wang Qian , Tong Jin , Zhou Jiang
Published: October 2015

Active food packaging films based on chitosan and honeysuckle flower extract (HFE) were developed. The effects of the HFE incorporation at different levels on physical and mechanical properties (density, moisture content, opacity, color, water solubility, water vapor permeability, tensile strength and elongation at break) of chitosan film were investigated. The antioxidant activity of the chitosan/HFE films was characterized in terms of 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl free radical‐scavenging activity. The antimicrobial activity of the chitosan/HFE films against Escherichia coli was determined by the agar diffusion method. The results indicated that the incorporation of HFE enhanced the antioxidant and antimicrobial activity of chitosan film and also improved the moisture barrier properties of chitosan film. Compared with the chitosan control film, the chitosan/HFE films had darker appearance, higher water solubility and lower tensile strength and elongation at break. The obtained chitosan/HFE films showed great potential to be used for active food packaging.

Practical Applications

Chitosan‐based films and coatings have attracted considerable attention because of their biodegradability, antimicrobial activity, nontoxicity and versatile physicochemical properties. Honeysuckle flower extract (HFE) is extracted from honeysuckle, the flowers of Lonicera japonica Thunb. Because honeysuckle contains active components that have a wide spectrum of biological and pharmacological activities, such as antibacterial, antiviral and antioxidant activity, incorporating HFE into chitosan film should enhance antimicrobial and antioxidant activity of the film. On the other hand, the addition of HFE may affect other properties of chitosan film related to packaging applications. Through investigating effects of incorporating HFE on physicochemical properties of chitosan film, a more effective chitosan/HFE film/coating with optimized properties for food stuff packaging could be obtained.
Simultaneous Production of Leaf Protein Concentrates and Antioxidants by Aqueous Ethanol Extraction
Authors: Shen Chen , Wu Wenbiao
Published: October 2015

Ethanol extraction increased the protein concentration from 21.05–35.68% in original leaves to 41.61–47.71% in the leaf concentrate, the protein efficiency ratio values of proteins from 0.98–1.26 to 1.4–2.26 and the true digestibility of proteins from 65–68% to 79–87%, depending on the variety of materials studied. The ethanol extract had strong antioxidative activities (reducing power equivalent to VC being 0.250–0.525 mg/mL; hydroxyl radical‐scavenging activities being 28.25–50.50%). The ethanol extract should be good materials for making healthy, beneficial (e.g., antiaging, preventing cardiovascular disease) foods. The protein concentrate obtained is directly applicable for fortifying amino acids and dietary fiber in healthy food industry.

Practical Applications

Ethanol extraction is applicable for processing many plant leaves. This method can produce edible leaf protein concentrates, dietary fiber and vitamins with high nutritional quality as well as antioxidants or other healthy effective compounds, simultaneously, and detoxify many leaf materials, depending on the variety of raw materials used. The ethanol extract may be employed in preparing cocktail or other ethanol‐containing products, depending on the variety of leaves used as raw materials.
Effects of Cumin (Cuminum Cyminum L.) Seed and Wild Mint (Mentha Longifolia L.) Leaf Extracts on the Shelf Life and Quality of Rainbow Trout (Oncorhynchus Mykiss) Fillets Stored at 4C ± 1
Authors: Raeisi Sara , Quek Siew Young , Ojagh Seyed Mahdi , Alishahi Ali Reza
Published: October 2015

The effects of Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) seed and Wild mint (Mentha longifolia L.) leaf extracts on microbiological, chemical and sensory changes of rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss) fillets stored at 4C ± 1 were investigated. The results showed that lipid oxidation and spoilage of the samples were significantly delayed in samples treated with a plant extract in comparison with the controls (P < 0.05). The psychrophilic bacterial counts and total viable count values were above the acceptability limit (7 log10 colony‐forming unit/g) by the 6, 12, 15, 12 and 18th day of storage for the control: Cumin (3.0 %), Cumin (6.0 %), Wild mint (3.0 %) and Wild mint (6.0 %) treatments, respectively. The application of 6.0 % Wild mint leaf extract gave the best antioxidative and antimicrobial activities, as well as sensory scores, up to 18 days of storage. Sensory analysis results showed the treatment with a Wild mint extract had high quality and improved the beneficial effects on sensory properties. This research demonstrated that the Cumin and Wild mint extracts had significant effects on shelf‐life extension of fresh rainbow trout up to 12–18 days at refrigerated storage conditions and could be applied as natural preservatives for extending shelf life of fish products.

Practical Applications

Consumer's awareness of well‐being and the demand for healthy and natural food products have caused much attention on using natural extract as preservative in food products. In this work, we investigated the effects of two natural extracts from Cumin Seed and Wild mint leaf on the quality of fish product, including chemical, microbiological and sensory qualities during refrigerated storage. To our knowledge, the application of Cumin Seed and Wild mint leaf extracts to extend the shelf life of fish product has not been studied previously.
A Program of Nurse Management for Unscheduled Consultations of Children With Acute Minor Illnesses in Primary Care
Authors: Fabrellas Núria , Juvé Eulàlia , Solà Montserrat , Aurín Eva , Berlanga Sofia , Galimany Jordi , Berenguer Lidia , Pujol M. Cèlia , Lacuesta Sara , Villo M. Cinta , Torres Montserrat
Published: October 2015

Introduction

Attention to patients with acute minor illnesses represents a major burden for primary care. Although programs of nurse care for children with acute minor illnesses in primary care started a long time ago, there is limited information about the results of these programs in current practice.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to assess the feasibility and efficacy of a program of nurse management for unscheduled consultations of children with acute minor illnesses.

Methods

Observational study of children seeking unscheduled consultations for 16 acute minor illnesses in 284 primary care practices during a 2‐year period. The program of nurse management used predefined management algorithms.

Findings

Among 467,160 consultations performed, case resolution was achieved in 65.4%. The remaining 34.6% of cases were not solved by the primary healthcare nurse due to the existence of signs of alarm and were referred to a pediatrician. Return to consultation during a 7‐day period for the same reason as the original consultation was only 2.6%.

Conclusions

A program that uses management algorithms is effective for nurse care management of children with acute minor illnesses in primary care.

Clinical Relevance

Application of programs of nurse management for unscheduled consultations for children with acute minor illnesses is feasible and effective.
Methods and theory in bone modeling drift: comparing spatial analyses of primary bone distributions in the human humerus
Authors: Maggiano Corey M. , Maggiano Isabel S. , Tiesler Vera G. , Chi‐Keb Julio R. , Stout Sam D.
Published: October 2015

This study compares two novel methods quantifying bone shaft tissue distributions, and relates observations on human humeral growth patterns for applications in anthropological and anatomical research. Microstructural variation in compact bone occurs due to developmental and mechanically adaptive circumstances that are ‘recorded’ by forming bone and are important for interpretations of growth, health, physical activity, adaptation, and identity in the past and present. Those interpretations hinge on a detailed understanding of the modeling process by which bones achieve their diametric shape, diaphyseal curvature, and general position relative to other elements. Bone modeling is a complex aspect of growth, potentially causing the shaft to drift transversely through formation and resorption on opposing cortices. Unfortunately, the specifics of modeling drift are largely unknown for most skeletal elements. Moreover, bone modeling has seen little quantitative methodological development compared with secondary bone processes, such as intracortical remodeling. The techniques proposed here, starburst point‐count and 45° cross‐polarization hand‐drawn histomorphometry, permit the statistical and populational analysis of human primary tissue distributions and provide similar results despite being suitable for different applications. This analysis of a pooled archaeological and modern skeletal sample confirms the importance of extreme asymmetry in bone modeling as a major determinant of microstructural variation in diaphyses. Specifically, humeral drift is posteromedial in the human humerus, accompanied by a significant rotational trend. In general, results encourage the usage of endocortical primary bone distributions as an indicator and summary of bone modeling drift, enabling quantitative analysis by direction and proportion in other elements and populations.
Further Evaluation of the Tripartite Structure of Subjective Well‐Being: Evidence From Longitudinal and Experimental Studies
Authors: Metler Samantha J. , Busseri Michael A.
Published: October 2015

Subjective well‐being (SWB; Diener, 1984) comprises three primary components: life satisfaction (LS), positive affect (PA), and negative affect (NA). Multiple competing conceptualizations of the tripartite structure of SWB have been employed, resulting in widespread ambiguity concerning the definition, operationalization, analysis, and synthesis of SWB‐related findings (Busseri & Sadava, 2011). We report two studies evaluating two predominant structural models (as recently identified by Busseri, 2015): a hierarchical model comprising a higher‐order latent SWB factor with LS, PA, and NA as indicators; and a causal systems model specifying unidirectional effects of PA and NA on LS. A longitudinal study (N = 452; Mage = 18.54; 76.5% female) and a lab‐based experiment (N = 195; Mage = 20.42 years; 87.6% female; 81.5% Caucasian) were undertaken. Structural models were evaluated with respect to (a) associations among SWB components across time (three months, three years in Study 1; one week in Study 2) and (b) the impact of manipulating the individual SWB components (Study 2). A hierarchical structural model was supported in both studies; conflicting evidence was found for the causal systems model. A hierarchical model provides a robust conceptualization for the tripartite structure of SWB.
Inhibitory effects of A
ster spathulifolius extract on adipogenesis and lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 preadipocytes
Authors: Kim Sa-Jic , Choung Se-Young
Published: October 2015

Objectives

A ster spathulifolius Maxim (AS), known for its anti-viral and anti-allergic activity, is also known to reduce body weight gain in high fat diet-induced obese rats. But its molecular mechanism of the anti-obesity effects is still unclear. So, we investigated the inhibitory effect of AS extract (ASE) on adipogenesis and lipid accumulation to determine the underlying cellular molecular mechanism.

Methods

To perform this study, the contents of intracellular triglyceride were analysed. Real-time polymerase chain reaction and Western blotting were carried out to investigate the expression of adipogenic transcriptional factors.

Key findings

ASE showed the suppression of adipogenic differentiation and the considerable reduction of the lipid accumulation in 3T3-L1 cells. Especially, ASE inhibited the early stage of differentiation via the downregulation of C/EBP-β and C/EBP-δ, which are early adipogenic factors. Major adipogenic factors, such as PPAR-γ and C/EBP-α, were also subsequently inhibited. These findings were supported by Oil Red O staining and intracellular triglyceride levels. A molecular mechanism liking the effect of ASE was identified through the activation of AMPKα pathway. ASE increased protein levels of phosphorylated AMPKα and phosphorylated ACC.

Conclusions

ASE showed anti-adipogenic and anti-lipogenic effects through the regulation of adipogenic factors and AMPKα pathway.
Comparison of Efficacy of Long‐term Oral Treatment with Telmisartan and Benazepril in Cats with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: Sent U. , Gössl R. , Elliott J. , Syme H. M. , Zimmering T.
Published: October 2015

Background

The efficacy and benefits of telmisartan in cats with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have not previously been reported.

Hypothesis

Long‐term treatment of cats with CKD using telmisartan decreases urine protein‐to‐creatinine ratio (UP/C) similar to benazepril.

Animals

Two‐hundred and twenty‐four client‐owned adult cats with CKD.

Methods

Prospective, multicenter, controlled, randomized, parallel group, blinded clinical trial with noninferiority design. Cats were allocated in a 1 : 1 ratio to either telmisartan (1 mg/kg; n = 112) or benazepril (0.5–1.0 mg/kg; n = 112) PO q24 h. The primary endpoint was prospectively defined as the change in proteinuria (benazepril:telmisartan) based on a log transformed weighted average of UP/C change from baseline (AUC 0→t/t) as a percentage compared using a confidence interval (CI) approach. Changes of UP/C from baseline were assessed on all study days and corrected for multiple comparisons.

Results

Telmisartan proved noninferior to benazepril in controlling proteinuria (CI, −0.035 to 0.268). At Day 180, UP/C compared to baseline in the telmisartan group was significantly lower (−0.05 ± 0.31; P = .016), whereas in the benazepril group the change (−0.02 ± 0.48) was not statistically significant (P = .136). Similar results were obtained at all assessment points with significant decrease in UP/C occurring with telmisartan but not benazepril.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Both telmisartan and benazepril were well tolerated and safe. Telmisartan proved to be noninferior to benazepril and significantly decreased proteinuria relative to baseline at all assessment points whereas benazepril did not.
Clinical Features and Magnetic Resonance Imaging Findings in 7 Dogs with Central Nervous System Aspergillosis
Authors: Taylor A.R. , Young B.D. , Levine G.J. , Eden K. , Corapi W. , Rossmeisl J.H. , Levine J.M.
Published: October 2015

Background

Systemic aspergillosis is a manifestation of Aspergillus sp. infection that can result in central nervous system (CNS) involvement with marked alterations in CNS function. Information regarding the clinical presentation and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings in cases of aspergillosis with CNS involvement is lacking, resulting in a need for better understanding of this disease.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The primary objectives were to describe the clinical features and MRI findings in dogs with CNS aspergillosis. The secondary objectives were to describe clinicopathologic findings and case outcome.

Animals

Seven dogs with CNS aspergillosis.

Methods

Archived records from 6 institutions were reviewed to identify cases with MRI of CNS aspergillosis confirmed with serum galactomannan enzyme immunoassay (EIA) testing, culture, or supported by histopathology. Signalment, clinical, MRI, clinicopathologic, histopathologic, and microbiologic findings were recorded and evaluated.

Results

Aspergillosis of the CNS was identified in 7 dogs from 3 institutions. The median age was 3 years and six were German Shepherd dogs. Five dogs had signs of vestibular dysfunction as a component of multifocal neurological abnormalities. The MRI findings ranged from normal to abnormal, including hemorrhagic infarction and mass lesions.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Until now, all reported MRI findings in dogs with CNS aspergillosis have been abnormal. We document that CNS aspergillosis in dogs, particularly German Shepherd dogs, can be suspected based on neurologic signs, whether MRI findings are normal or abnormal. Confirmatory testing with galactomannan EIA, urine, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) or tissue culture should be performed in cases where aspergillosis is a differential diagnosis.
Loperamide‐induced expression of immune and inflammatory genes in Collies associated with ivermectin sensitivity
Authors: Zhu M. , Yancy H. F. , Deaver C. , Jones Y. L. , Myers M. J.
Published: October 2015

This study evaluated the impact of the ABCB1‐1Δ mutation in Collies which exhibited toxicity toward ivermectin, on changes in gene expression when given the unrelated ABCB1 substrate loperamide, to identify potential biomarkers predictive of drug safety. Thirty‐two healthy intact Collies consisting of dogs with either a wild‐type, heterozygous mutant, or homozygous mutant genotype were used. Whole blood samples were collected from Collies at 0 or 5 h following administration of loperamide at a dose of 0.10 mg/kg. Whole‐genome gene expression microarray was conducted to examine for changes in gene expression. Microarray analysis identified loperamide‐induced changes in gene expression which were specifically associated with ivermectin‐sensitive phenotypes in Collies possessing the ABCB1‐1Δ mutation. Gene pathway analysis further demonstrated that the altered genes are involved in immunological disease, cell death and survival, and cellular development. Thirteen genes, including CCL8 and IL‐8, were identified. Collie dogs harboring ABCB1‐1Δ mutation which also exhibited toxicity toward ivermectin demonstrated systematic responses following loperamide treatment exhibited by altered expression of genes involved in immune and inflammatory signaling pathways. Genes such as CCL8 and IL‐8 are potential biomarkers in whole blood that may predict the safety of loperamide in dogs with ABCB1‐1∆ mutation associated with ivermectin sensitivity.
Hyperhomocysteinemia is associated with severity of cirrhosis and negative impact after liver transplantation
Authors: Bhanji Rahima A. , Ma Mang , Bain Vincent G. , Montano‐Loza Aldo J.
Published: October 2015

Background & Aims

Hyperhomocysteinemia constitutes an independent risk factor for thrombosis and cellular injury promoted by oxidative stress. The clinical significance of hyperhomocysteinemia in cirrhosis and outcomes post‐liver transplantation is poorly documented. In this study, we aimed to determine the prevalence of hyperhomocysteinemia in cirrhosis, evaluate its association with thrombosis and severity of liver disease, and its impact on survival after liver transplantation.

Methods

We analysed 450 patients with cirrhosis who received a liver transplant between 2001 and 2010. Data were recovered from medical charts and homocysteine serum levels were determined before liver transplantation in all patients.

Results

Median age was 53 years (range, 18–72 years) and 308 patients were males (68%). Cirrhosis aetiology was hepatitis C (37%), autoimmune liver disease (22%), alcohol (16%) and others (25%). The median homocysteine level was 11 μmol/L (range, 4–221 μmol/L) and 165 patients (37%) had hyperhomocysteinemia. The MELD (23 ± 10 vs. 20 ± 9 points, P < 0.001), and Child–Pugh (11 ± 2 vs. 9 ± 2 points, P < 0.001) scores were higher in patients with hyperhomocysteinemia. Episodes of thrombosis occurred in 91 patients (20%), but there was no significant difference in patients with or without hyperhomocysteinemia (19 vs. 21%, P = 0.6). Hyperhomocysteinemia was associated with reduced graft (105 ± 4 vs. 119 ± 2 months; P = 0.005), and patient survival (125 ± 33 vs. 131 ± 2 months; P = 0.006).

Conclusions

Hyperhomocysteinemia is frequently present in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with severe liver disease and reduced graft and patient survival after liver transplantation. The negative impact hyperhomocysteinemia has on graft and patient survival is not related to thrombosis.
A randomized open label study of ‘imipenem vs. cefepime’ in spontaneous bacterial peritonitis
Authors: Jindal Ankur , Kumar Manoj , Bhadoria Ajeet S. , Maiwall Rakhi , Sarin Shiv K.
Published: October 2015

Background & Aims

Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP), in the presence of bacterial resistance or failure of third generation cephalosporins (3rd GC) has poor outcome. Empirical antibiotic(s) options are limited in these scenarios.

Methods

Consecutive cirrhotics with SBP because of hospital acquired SBP (>48 h of admission), microbial resistance or non‐response (no resolution of SBP at 48 h) were randomized to Cefepime (n = 88) or Imipenem (n = 87) plus standard medical therapy. We assessed for ‘response at 48 h’ (reduction in ascitic fluid absolute neutrophil count (ANC) by >25% at 48 h), resolution of SBP (<250 cu/mm ANC at day 5) and their clinical outcome.

Results

Of 957 paracentesis in 1200 hospitalized cirrhotics, 253 (26.4%) had SBP and 175 (69.6%) were randomized. Baseline parameters were comparable in two groups. Response at 48 h (58.6% vs. 51.7%; P = 0.4) and resolution of SBP in those with response at 48 h were comparable with no difference in mortality at week 2, month 1 and 3. Patients with ‘No response at 48 h’ had higher mortality compared with responders (73.8% vs. 25%; P < 0.001). Resolution of SBP was associated with ‘response at 48 h’ and septic shock, latter being main pre‐terminal event. AKI at enrolment [Hazard ratio (HR), 2.6], pneumonia [HR, 2.9], septic shock [HR, 2.2] and response at 48 h [HR, 4.6] predicted poor outcome.

Conclusions

In hospitalized cirrhotics with SBP and risk factors for treatment failure, cefepime showed comparable efficacy and survival to imipenem. Non‐response to therapy at 48 h is a reliable predictor of treatment failure and mortality. Antibiotic combinations and novel options are needed for these patients.
The 1925 meteorite fall near Ellemeet and Serooskerke, the Netherlands
Authors: de Vet Sebastiaan J.
Published: October 2015

Two meteorites impacted in 1925 around the town of Serooskerke on the isle of Schouwen, the Netherlands. The largest mass is widely known as the “Ellemeet” diogenite, while a second mass, heavily weathered due to environmental exposure, also survived until the present day. This work aims to reconstruct the history of the 1925 fall and for the first time documents the second mass, known as the “Serooskerke,” by integrating a historical and experimental approach. The study of historical news archives and cadastral records redefined the 1925 impact site at N 51°42.086′ E 3°49.789′. Environmental exposure experiments reproducing the effects of rainfall and frost weathering identified the latter as the main cause for the second mass' reported disintegration in the field sometime during the 1925–1926 winter. The bulk mineralogy of the second mass was established using XRD powder diffraction for a 2θ range of 3–70° and was found to be identical to an Ellemeet reference sample. UV/VIS/nIR spectroscopy (300–2500 nm) was subsequently used to broadly compare the second mass to HED clan meteorites Bouvante, EET87503, Johnstown and asteroid 4 Vesta in order to corroborate its vestan origin. The historical and geographic relationship of the two masses and the comparable bulk mineralogy supported the pairing of these two meteorites. This makes the Serooskerke a valuable legacy of the 1925 fall, especially as the location of ~50% of the remaining Ellemeet mass is presently unknown.
An experimental study of partial melting and fractional crystallization on the HED parent body
Authors: Ashcroft Helen O. , Wood Bernard J.
Published: October 2015

We have performed an experimental and modeling study of the partial melting behavior of the HED parent body and of the fractional crystallization of liquids derived from its mantle. We estimated the mantle composition by assuming chondritic ratios of refractory lithophile elements, adjusting the Mg# and core size to match the density and moment of inertia of Vesta, and the compositions of Mg‐rich olivines found in diogenites. The liquidus of a mantle with Mg# (=100*[Mg/(Mg+Fe)]) 80 is ~1625 °C and, under equilibrium conditions, the melt crystallizes olivine alone until it is joined by orthopyroxene at 1350 °C. We synthesized the melt from our 1350 °C experiment and simulated its fractional crystallization path. Orthopyroxene crystallizes until it is replaced by pigeonite at 1200 °C. Liquids become eucritic and crystal assemblages resemble diogenites below 1250 °C. MELTS correctly predicts the olivine liquidus but overestimates the orthopyroxene liquidus by ~70 °C. Predicted melt compositions are in reasonable agreement with those generated experimentally. We used MELTS to determine that the range of mantle compositions that can produce eucritic liquids and diogenitic solids in a magma ocean model is Mg# 75–80 (with chondritic ratios of refractory elements). A mantle with Mg# ~ 70 can produce eucrites and diogenites through sequential partial melting.
Freedom‐to‐operate analysis of a transgenic multivitamin corn variety
Authors: Zanga Daniela , Capell Teresa , Zhu Changfu , Christou Paul , Thangaraj Harry
Published: October 2015

In this article, we explore the intellectual property (IP) landscape relevant to the production and commercialization of Carolight™, a transgenic multivitamin corn variety created on humanitarian grounds to address micronutrient deficiencies in low‐and‐middle‐income countries. The successful production of this variety requires IP rights risk management because there is a strong protection on inventions and processes via patent portfolios in both developing and industrialized countries. The IP framework is complex, and specialist patent lawyers are usually employed to perform such analysis, but the costs cannot always be met by small, publicly funded projects. We report an alternative strategy, a do‐it‐yourself patent analysis, to produce a review with limited legal value that can nevertheless lay the foundations for a subsequent more in‐depth professional freedom‐to‐operate opinion.
Androgenic capability among genotypes of winter and spring barley
Authors: Makowska Katarzyna , Oleszczuk Sylwia , Zimny Aleksandra , Czaplicki Andrzej , Zimny Janusz
Published: October 2015

Variable efficiency of androgenesis remains a serious problem in many species of cereals. It is still unclear what makes certain genotypes more amenable to androgenesis than others. This study was undertaken to quantify the previously suspected advantage of winter barley genotypes over spring ones with regard to regeneration efficiency in anther culture. The material consisted of 40 barley hybrids originating from Polish breeding companies. The number of androgenic structures per 100 anthers did not differ significantly between analysed groups (119 vs. 152 non‐significant), but the average regeneration of green plants per 100 anthers was five times higher in winter genotypes (6.4 vs. 1.3). The incidence of albinism was lower for the winter than for the spring materials (70% vs. 90%), while the rate of spontaneous chromosome doubling was similar in both groups (58% vs. 56%). The results strongly support the notion that winter genotypes are more amenable to androgenesis and this may be a consequence of their better adaptation to stress conditions.
Analysis of S‐allele genetic diversity in Sicilian almond germplasm comparing different molecular methods
Authors: Currò Sergio , La Malfa Stefano , Distefano Gaetano , Long Guiyou , Sottile Francesco , Gentile Alessandra
Published: October 2015

Italian almond germplasm is characterized by a wide diversity in several growing areas among which Sicily is one of the most important. Analysis with consensus and specific primers and DNA sequencing was performed to investigate S‐RNase genetic diversity and to elucidate the homology rate within a genetic pool of 27 Italian accessions. Interestingly, some of the self‐compatible cultivars did not show the presence of Sf allele. Amplicons from consensus and allele‐specific PCR primers revealed a high level of variability. Sequencing of all the S‐RNase amplicons derived from consensus primers allowed the identification of two new S‐RNase alleles (S51 and S52). Surprisingly, despite the AA replacement mutation, S51 did not exhibit any change of its S‐RNase function. Additionally, several mutations, with no effect on amino acid composition, were detected in the intron and/or in the ORF of four known alleles (Sg, S10, S31 and S35). Genetic variation, regarding point mutations and only detected by sequencing, was revealed among 11 of 27 tested cultivars. The new sources of variability might have an interest for product traceability.
Bayesian Regularization of the Length of Memory in Reversible Sequences
Authors: Bacallado Sergio , Pande Vijay , Favaro Stefano , Trippa Lorenzo
Published: October 2015

Variable order Markov chains have been used to model discrete sequential data in a variety of fields. A host of methods exist to estimate the history-dependent lengths of memory which characterize these models and to predict new sequences. In several applications, the data-generating mechanism is known to be reversible, but combining this information with the procedures mentioned is far from trivial. We introduce a Bayesian analysis for reversible dynamics, which takes into account uncertainty in the lengths of memory. The model proposed is applied to the analysis of molecular dynamics simulations and compared with several popular algorithms.
Effects of Processing on the Acceptability of “Frozen” Extraposed Constituents
Authors: Hofmeister Philip , Culicover Peter , Winkler Susanne
Published: October 2015

In syntactic theory, “freezing” refers to the idea that a constituent extraposed to a noncanonical position is resistant to extraction of any of its subconstituents (What did Terry see a movie yesterday about ———?). The unacceptability of such examples, compared to minimally different sentences without extraposition, has been claimed to be a result of a grammatical constraint on dependency formation, such as Ross's (1967) Frozen Structure Constraint. Here, we argue that the gradient pattern of acceptability associated with such examples is better explained in terms of processing complexity. Experimental evidence from a controlled acceptability task shows that the total penalty for extraction from extraposed constituents is predictable from the summed acceptability penalties independently linked to extraction and extraposition. As prior research links both of these displacement phenomena to increased processing costs, we conclude that a grammar of unbounded dependencies in English does not require a “freezing” constraint for the explanation of these cases.
Negative experiences and donor return: an examination of the role of asking for something different
Authors: Masser Barbara M. , Bove Liliana L. , White Katherine M. , Bagot Kathleen L.
Published: October 2015

BACKGROUND

Negative donation experiences, including vasovagal reactions, deter donor retention. However, whether this deterrence effect varies as a function of whole blood (WB) donation history and requests to donate the same or a different product remains unclear.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The responses of 894 eligible WB donors who had been approached to convert to plasmapheresis and 954 eligible first‐time plasmapheresis donors who had been surveyed on their last donation experience and their intention to donate plasma were considered. This information was matched with individual vasovagal reaction records, deferral category, WB donation history, and subsequent donation behavioral data obtained from the blood collection agency.

RESULTS

Path analysis indicated that the application of a deferral and an officially recorded vasovagal reaction decreased donors' intentions to continue plasmapheresis donation, but had no effect on WB donors' intentions to convert to plasmapheresis. Consistent with past findings, vasovagal reactions occurred more frequently with female and inexperienced donors.

CONCLUSION

Experiencing vasovagal reactions and deferrals may not universally deter donors from continuing to donate. Rather, the offer to convert to another form of donation—in this instance, plasmapheresis—after experiencing a negative donation event while donating WB may be sufficient to eliminate the deterrence effect on retention.
Effects of Hot Streak and Airfoil Clocking on Heat Transfer and Aerodynamic Characteristics in Gas Turbine
Authors: Feng Zhenping , Liu Zhaofang , Shi Yan , Wang Zhiduo
Published: October 2015

The effects of the hot streak and airfoil clocking on the heat transfer and aerodynamic characteristics in a high pressure (HP) gas turbine have been investigated in this paper. The blade geometry is taken from the first 1.5 stage turbine of GE-E3 engine. To study the effect of hot streak clocking, three cases under nonuniform and uniform inlet temperature boundary conditions were simulated first. Subsequently, four clocking positions (CPs) of S2 (second stator) were arranged in these three cases to study the combined effect of hot streak and airfoil clocking. By solving the unsteady compressible Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes (RANS) equations, time-dependent solutions for the flow and heat transfer characteristics of the 1.5 stage turbine were obtained. The results indicate that impinged by different inlet temperature profiles, the heat flux distribution on S1 (first stator) blade varies significantly. Due to the separation of hot and cold fluid, more hot fluid flows toward pressure side (PS) of R1 (first rotor) and worsens the heat transfer environment there. The high heat flux on the R1 blade surface is controlled not only by the high heat transfer coefficient but also by the large temperature difference. By adjusting the CPs of S2, the hot streak fragments from the upstream could be guided to different places in S2 passage, to reduce the heat load on S2 blade surface. In view of the influence of the heat transfer characteristics, the nonadiabatic efficiency is calculated. The combined effects of the hot streak and airfoil clocking have been discussed, and the proper matching position for the two kinds of clocking could be selected for a higher nonadiabatic efficiency and lower heat load on S2 blade and end walls.
Improved Accuracy in Jet Impingement Heat Transfer Experiments Considering the Layer Thicknesses of a Triple Thermochromic Liquid Crystal Coating
Authors: Terzis Alexandros , Bontitsopoulos Stavros , Ott Peter , von Wolfersdorf Jens , Kalfas Anestis I.
Published: October 2015

This paper examines the applicability of a triple layer of thermochromic liquid crystals (TLCs) for the determination of local heat transfer coefficients using the transient liquid crystal (LC) technique. The experiments were carried out in a narrow impingement channel, typically used for turbine blade cooling applications. Three types of narrow bandwidth LCs (1 °C range) of 35 °C, 38 °C, and 41 °C were individually painted on the target plate of the cooling cavity and the overall paint thickness was accurately determined with an integral coating thickness gauge. The 1D transient heat conduction equation is then implicitly solved for each individual TLC layer on its realistic depth on the painted surface. Local heat transfer coefficients are therefore calculated three times for the same location in the flow improving the measurement accuracy, especially at regions where the LC detection times are too short (stagnation points) or too long (wall-jet regions). The results indicate that if multiple LC layers are used and the paint thickness is not considered, the heat transfer coefficients can be significantly underestimated.
The Benefits of an Inverted Brayton Bottoming Cycle as an Alternative to Turbocompounding
Authors: Copeland Colin D. , Chen Zhihang
Published: October 2015

The exhaust gas from an internal combustion engine contains approximately 30% of the thermal energy of combustion. Waste heat-recovery systems aim to reclaim a proportion of this energy in a bottoming thermodynamic cycle to raise the overall system thermal efficiency. The inverted Brayton cycle (IBC) considered as a potential exhaust-gas heat-recovery system is a little-studied approach, especially when applied to small automotive power plants. Hence, a model of an air-standard, irreversible Otto cycle and the IBC using finite-time thermodynamics (FTT) is presented to study heat recovery applied to an automotive internal combustion engine. The other two alternatives power cycles, the pressurized Brayton cycle and the turbocompounding system (TS), are compared with the IBC to specify the strengths and weaknesses of three alternative cycles. In the current paper, an irreversible Otto-cycle model with an array of losses is used as a base for the bottoming cycle. The deviation of the turbomachinery from the idealized behavior is described by the isentropic component efficiencies. The performance of the system as defined as the specific power output and thermal efficiency is considered using parametric studies. The results show that the performance of the IBC can be positively affected by five critical parameters—the number of compression stages, the cycle inlet temperature and pressure, the isentropic efficiency of the turbomachinery, and the effectiveness of the heat exchanger. There exists an optimum pressure ratio across the IBC turbine that delivers the maximum specific power. In view of the specific power, installing a single-stage of the IBC appears to be the best balance between performance and complexity. Three alternative cycles are compared in terms of the thermal efficiency. The results indicate that the pressurized and IBCs can improve the performance of the turbocharged engine (TCE) only when the turbomachinery efficiencies are higher than a value which changes with the operating condition. High performance of the IBC turbomachinery is required to ensure that the TCE with the IBC is superior to that with TS.