bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pantethine Prevents Murine Systemic Sclerosis Through the Inhibition of Microparticle Shedding
Authors: Kavian Niloufar , Marut Wioleta , Servettaz Amélie , Nicco Carole , Chéreau Christiane , Lemaréchal Hervé , Guilpain Philippe , Chimini Giovanna , Galland Franck , Weill Bernard , Naquet Philippe , Batteux Frédéric
Published: March 2015

Objective

Endothelial cell (EC) damage in systemic sclerosis (SSc) is reflected by the shedding of microparticles (MPs). The aim of this study was to show that inhibiting MP release using pantethine or by inactivating ATP‐binding cassette transporter A1 (ABCA1) ameliorates murine SSc.

Methods

First, the effects of pantethine on MP shedding and on basal oxidative and nitrosative stresses in ECs and fibroblasts were determined in vitro. The effects of pantethine were then tested in vivo. SSc was induced in BALB/c mice by daily intradermal injection of HOCl. Mice were simultaneously treated daily with pantethine by oral gavage.

Results

In vitro, pantethine inhibited MP shedding from tumor necrosis factor–stimulated ECs and abrogated MP‐induced oxidative and nitrosative stresses in ECs and fibroblasts. Ex vivo, pantethine also restored redox homeostasis in fibroblasts from mice with SSc. In vivo, mice with SSc displayed skin and lung fibrosis associated with increased levels of circulating MPs and markers of oxidative and endothelial stress, which were normalized by administration of pantethine or inactivation of ABCA1.

Conclusion

Pantethine is a well‐tolerated molecule that represents a potential treatment of human SSc.
Homology modeling and virtual screening of inhibitors against TEM‐ and SHV‐type‐resistant mutants: A multilayer filtering approach
Authors: Baig Mohammad H. , Balaramnavar Vishal M. , Wadhwa Gulshan , Khan Asad U.
Published: March 2015

TEM and SHV are class‐A‐type β‐lactamases commonly found inEscherichia coliandKlebsiella pneumoniae. Previous studies reported S130G and K234R mutations in SHVs to be 41‐ and 10‐fold more resistant toward clavulanic acid than SHV‐1, respectively, whereas TEM S130G and R244S also showed the same level of resistance. These selected mutants confer higher level of resistance against clavulanic acid. They also show little susceptibility against other commercially available β‐lactamase inhibitors. In this study, we have used docking‐based virtual screening approach in order to screen potential inhibitors against some of the major resistant mutants of SHV and TEM types β‐lactamase. Two different inhibitor‐resistant mutants from SHV and TEM were selected. Moreover, we have retained the active site water molecules within each enzyme. Active site water molecules were placed within modeled structure of the mutant whose structure was unavailable with protein databank. The novelty of this work lies in the use of multilayer virtual screening approach for the prediction of best and accurate results. We are reporting five inhibitors on the basis of their efficacy against all the selected resistant mutants. These inhibitors were selected on the basis of their binding efficacies and pharmacophore features.
In vitro inhibition and induction of human cytochrome P450 enzymes by SIPI5357, a potential antidepressant
Authors: Fan Gaoning , Cao Yun , Yang Jin
Published: March 2015

This study investigated the in vitro drug–drug interaction potential of SIPI5357, an arylalkanol‐piperazine derivative used in the treatment of depression. Drug–drug interaction occurs via inhibition or induction of enzymes involved in their metabolism. In human liver microsomes, SIPI5357 showed the strongest inhibition of CYP2D6, followed by CYP3A4 (testosterone) and CYP2C8. Inhibition was observed in a concentration‐dependent manner, with IC50 values of 18.45 µM, 36.63 µM (CYP3A4/testosterone), 89.23 µM, respectively. SIPI5357 was predicted not to cause significant metabolic drug–drug interaction via inhibition of CYP1A2, CYP2C9, CYP2C19, CYP2E1 or CYP3A4 (midazolam) because the IC50 values for these enzymes were both >100 µM (200 times maximum plasma concentration [Cmax]). SIPI5357 showed a mixed model inhibition of CYP2D6 (Ki = 11.12 µM). The value of [I]/Ki for CYP2D6 inhibition by SIPI5357 is below the FDA cut‐off value of 0.1; it is therefore reasonable to assume that SIPI5357 will not cause significant CYP2D6 inhibition. However, positive controls (50 µM omeprazole and 25 µM rifampin) caused the anticipated CYP induction, but the highest concentration of SIPI5357 (5 µM; 10 times plasma Cmax) had a minimal effect on CYP1A2 and CYP3A4 mRNA levels in freshly isolated human hepatocytes, suggesting that SIPI5357 is not an inducer of these enzymes. However, significant induction of CYP2B6 was observed at 0.5 µM and 5 µM. In conclusion, SIPI5357 might cause drug–drug interaction via induction of CYP2B6. The in vivo drug–drug interaction potential deserves further investigation. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Novel mutation in the BMPR1B gene (R486L) in a polish family and further delineation of the phenotypic features of BMPR1B‐Related brachydactyly
Authors: Badura‐Stronka Magdalena , Mróz Dariusz , Beighton Peter , Łukawiecki Sebastian , Wicher Katarzyna , Latos‐Bieleńska Anna , Kozłowski Kazimierz
Published: March 2015

Background

Lehmann et al., [2003, 2006] have documented two different substitutions at position 486 of the BMPR1B gene which resulted in a phenotype of brachydactyly A2 [MIM 112600] or brachydactyly C with symphalangism [MIM 113100].

Methods

In this article we report a family of Polish extraction with a novel mutation: c.1457G>T (R486L) which segregated with a complex brachydactyly. Clinical and radiological data are presented and details of previously reported patients with a pathogenic change of an amino acid at position 486 of the BMPR1B gene are summarized.

Conclusion

Our data extends the previously known mutational and radiological spectrum associated with mutations in the BMPR1B gene and confirms the existence of a universal hotspot in the BMPR1B gene in this distinctive autosomal dominant brachydactyly disorder.

It is of interest that an affected female in the Polish family had a severe congenital malformation of the venous system in addition to her digital anomalies. This observation raises the possibility of disturbance of embryonic angiogenesis by specific mutations in BMPR1B. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 103:567–572, 2015. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Adaptive multiply size group method for CFD‐population balance modelling of polydisperse flows
Authors: Vikhansky Alexander , Splawski Andrew
Published: March 2015

An adaptive discretization for population balance equations is presented. The method is combined with the multiphase CFD code STAR‐CCM+ of CD‐adapco. In order to account for the multidisperse nature of the flow the dispersed phase is split into M size groups; from the modelling point of view each group is a separate phase in every aspect but the name. The groups move with their own velocities and exchange mass, momentum, and energy with other groups and with the continuous phase. Size of a group is not prescribed a priori, but calculated from an additional scalar equation. A special procedure is designed to ensure that at each point all groups have the same volume fractions. As the particle sizes change due to coagulation and breakup, the discretization of the phase space adjusts itself to the new size distribution. Few groups suffice to predict the mean characteristics of the flow.
High resolution melting analysis of DNA microsatellites in olive pastes and virgin olive oils obtained by talc addition
Authors: Pasqualone Antonella , Rienzo Valentina Di , Miazzi Monica Marilena , Fanelli Valentina , Caponio Francesco , Montemurro Cinzia
Published: March 2015

Talc (hydrated magnesium silicate) is a physical coadjuvant that can be employed in the production of extra virgin olive oil to increase yield. The adsorbent properties of talc could hamper DNA recovery, leading to false negatives in DNA analysis. The aim of this work was to verify the effect of talc addition on olive oil DNA by targeting four selected microsatellites. Olive processing trials were carried out at two different levels of talc (1 and 2%) and without talc (control). DNA extraction yield and purity level were ascertained, and High Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis of microsatellites was subsequently applied to the extracted DNA. Neither the DNA extraction yield nor the A260/230 and A260/280 ratios showed significant differences between control and talc‐treated samples. Higher values of A260/230 and lower yields were observed in olive oils than in olive pastes. The DNA microsatellites analyzed showed identical HRM profiles in all the samples, excluding any effect of talc and confirming the genetic homogeneity of the olive lot processed (cv. Coratina).

Practical applications: High added‐value mono‐cultivar extra virgin olive oils are niche products very appreciated by consumers. DNA analysis is able to reveal mixing with cultivars different from those declared in the label. The use of talc in olive oil industries has progressively increased to improve yield. The results obtained prove that the DNA‐based methods set up until now to check the authenticity of extra virgin olive oil can be effectively carried out also in oils produced by using talc. In addition, the results are among the first applications of HRM to the food sector and evidence the feasibility of this technique along the olive oil chain for checking both olive pastes and oils.

Talc (hydrated magnesium silicate) is a physical coadjuvant that can be employed in the production of extra virgin olive oil to increase yield. The adsorbent properties of talc could hamper DNA recovery, leading to false negatives in DNA analysis. By means of High Resolution Melting (HRM) analysis, DNA samples from talc‐treated olive pastes and oils were compared with untreated control based on the shape of temperature‐shifted melting curves. For the same microsatellite, the different samples analyzed showed almost identical HRM profiles. This result excluded any effect of talc addition during olive processing in the analysis of DNA microsatellites of olive oil.
Association between the Oxytocin Receptor Gene Polymorphism (rs53576) and Bulimia Nervosa
Authors: Kim Youl‐Ri , Kim Jeong‐Hyun , Kim Chan‐Hyung , Shin Jae Gook , Treasure Janet
Published: March 2015

Objective

Oxytocin circuits are implicated in the regulation of appetite and weight. Variants in the oxytocin receptor (OXTR) gene have been associated with bulimic behaviour. This study aimed to investigate the association between the OXTR gene and eating disorders.

Method

We genotyped six single nucleotide polymorphisms, rs53576, rs237879, rs2228485, rs13316193, rs2254298 and rs1042778, located within the OXTR gene in Korean patients with eating disorders using the single‐base extension method. We studied a total of 262 women, including 69 patients with anorexia nervosa, 90 patients with bulimia nervosa (BN), and 103 healthy women.

Results

We found a positive association between the G allele of OXTR rs53576 and BN. In the BN group, the G carriers showed a high score on the behavioural inhibition system.

Conclusions

These findings suggest the involvement of the oxytocinergic system in the mechanism that underlies BN. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd and Eating Disorders Association.
Highly Durable Platinum based Cathode Electrocatalysts for PEMFC Application using Oxygen and Nitrogen Functional Groups Attached Nanocarbon Supports
Authors: Karthikeyan N. , Vinayan B. P. , Rajesh M. , Balaji K. , Subramani A. K. , Ramaprabhu S.
Published: March 2015

The combined effect of oxygen and nitrogen functional groups on highly crystalline carbon supports like multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNT) and MWCNT‐few layer graphene hybrid structures (MWCNT+FLG) have been investigated towards oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) performance and carbon corrosion durability in polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) applications. The pristine carbon supports were modified with oxygen and nitrogen functionalities by treating with concentrated mineral acids and subsequent nitrogen plasma treatment assisted with R.F. magnetron sputtering. Pt nanoparticles were dispersed over these chemically modified carbon supports by polyol reduction method. The physicochemical properties of as synthesized electrocatalysts were studied by different techniques such as XRD, TEM, FTIR, Raman and XPS. Electrochemical properties were investigated by cyclic voltammetry and linear sweep voltammetry in 0.1M HClO4 medium. Compared to commercial Pt/C catalysts, durability show ∼30 % enhancement for the as prepared electrocatalysts due to the presence of large amount of pyrrolic nitrogen and highly oriented graphitic nature of the catalyst supports. The ORR performance were comparable with Pt/C (TEC10E30E) in terms of MSA, 259, 270, 252 A g−1 for Pt/C, Pt/N‐f‐MWCNT, Pt/N‐f‐(MWCNT+FLG) respectively.
In suit Investigation of Anode Support on Cell Performance Reduced under Various Temperatures for Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
Authors: Wang F. , Miao F. X. , Guan W. B.
Published: March 2015

The performance of anode support of Ni‐YSZ reduced from room temperature (TR) to working temperature (Tw) and at Tw in anode‐supported planar solid oxide fuel cell was investigated quantitatively in situ. A 2 μm thick Pt voltage probe was embedded at the interface between the anode support and the function anode in the cell. Results showed that the power densities of the stack that was reduced from TR to Tw (stack 1) and stack reduced at Tw (stack 2) were 0.343 W cm−2 and 0.583 W cm−2 with the corresponding fuel utilization of 36.28% and 63.87%, respectively, under the operating voltage of 0.8 V. The degradation rate of stack 1 was 7.76 times more than that of stack 2 when the stack was discharged under a constant current of 0.476 Acm−2 for 100 h. Ni particles agglomerated in the anode support of the cell inside stack 1, whereas Ni particles in the anode support of the cell inside stack 2 were evenly distributed. The performance of stack 1 was poor mainly because of the increasing ohmic and polarization resistances caused by Ni agglomeration and decreasing porosity of the anode support.
Improved working memory performance following administration of a single dose of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) to healthy middle‐age adults
Authors: Ossoukhova Anastasia , Owen Lauren , Savage Karen , Meyer Marjolaine , Ibarra Alvin , Roller Marc , Pipingas Andrew , Wesnes Keith , Scholey Andrew
Published: March 2015

Objective

A ginsenoside‐rich extract of American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.), CereboostTM, was previously shown to improve working memory and mood in healthy young individuals. The present study represented a partial replication investigating whether these effects extended to healthy middle‐aged individuals.

Methods

Fifty‐two healthy volunteers (40–60 years old, mean age 51.63) received 200 mg of P. quinquefolius or a matching placebo according to a double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, balanced, crossover design. The Cognitive Drug Research battery and the Computerised Mental Performance Assessment System were used to evaluate cognitive performance at baseline then 1, 3 and 6 h following treatment. Blood glucose and mood were co‐monitored.

Results

Compared with placebo, P. quinquefolius improved cognitive performance on ‘Working Memory’ factor at 3 h. Similar effects were observed in one of the two tasks making up this factor, spatial working memory. There were no significant effects on mood or blood glucose levels.

Conclusions

These data confirm that P. quinquefolius can acutely benefit working memory and extend the age range of this effect to middle‐aged individuals. These changes are unlikely to be underpinned by modulation of blood glucose in this population. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Impaired regulation of portal venous flow in response to a meal challenge as quantified by 4D flow MRI
Authors: Roldán‐Alzate Alejandro , Frydrychowicz Alex , Said Adnan , Johnson Kevin M. , Francois Christopher J. , Wieben Oliver , Reeder Scott B.
Published: March 2015

Purpose

Portal and mesenteric hemodynamics is greatly altered in portal hypertension patients. This study utilizes 4D flow magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to visualize and quantify changes in abdominal hemodynamics in patients with portal hypertension undergoing meal challenge.

Materials and Methods

Twelve portal hypertension patients and six healthy subjects participated in the study. Baseline MRI was acquired after 5 hours of fasting. Postmeal MRI was obtained 20 minutes after subjects ingested EnSure Plus (574 mL). Imaging was performed at 3T using 4D flow MRI with an undersampled radial acquisition. Flow measurements were performed blinded to subject status (fasting/meal). Flow values for each vessel were compared before and after the meal challenge using paired Student's t‐tests (P < 0.05).

Results

After meal challenge, significant increases in blood flow were observed in supraceliac aorta, portal vein, superior mesenteric vein, and artery in both groups (P < 0.05). In patients, hepatic artery (P = 0.001) and splenic vein (P = 0.045) flow decreased while azygos vein flow (P = 0.002) increased.

Conclusion

Portal venous flow regulation to adjust the increasing mesenteric venous flow after a meal challenge may be impaired in patients with cirrhosis. The ability to comprehensively quantify the hemodynamic response of the abdominal vasculature to a meal challenge using 4D flow MRI reveals the potential of this technique to noninvasively characterize portal hypertension hemodynamics. J. Magn. Reson. Imaging 2015;42:1009–1017.
The Effect of Steiner, Montessori, and National Curriculum Education Upon Children's Pretence and Creativity
Authors: Kirkham Julie Ann , Kidd Evan
Published: March 2015

Pretence and creativity are often regarded as ubiquitous characteristics of childhood, yet not all education systems value or promote these attributes to the same extent. Different pedagogies and practices are evident within theUKNational Curriculum, Steiner and Montessori schools. In this study, 20 children participated from each of these school systems (N = 60, aged 6;10–8;11) completing the test of creative thinking—drawing production (TCT‐DP; K. K. Urban, & H. G. Jellen, 1996) and a pretend actions task (W. F. Overton & J. P. Jackson, 1973). Overall, Steiner pupils performed significantly higher on theTCT‐DPthan both the Montessori and National Curriculum pupils who performed similarly. Steiner pupils also performed significantly better on the pretend actions task than the Montessori pupils, but no other significant differences were found. Overall, there was also a significant positive correlation between pretence and creativity in the current sample, supporting previous research suggesting that these skills are related (e.g., A.S. Kaugars & S. W. Russ, 2009; P. Y. Mullineaux & L. F. Dilalla, 2009).
Time‐resolved in‐situ pH measurement in differently treated, saturated and unsaturated soils
Authors: Thiele‐Bruhn Sören , Wessel‐Bothe Stefan , Aust Marc‐Oliver
Published: March 2015

The pH‐value is of utmost relevance for soil properties and functioning. Hence, a time‐resolved in‐situ measurement is mandatory but lacking. As an alternative, a two‐probe pH electrode with gel‐covered reference electrode was newly constructed and tested for a continuous, in‐situ pH recording in saturated and unsaturated soil. This was done using samples from a set of 14 soils with different composition and pH$ _{\rm CaCl_2} $ ranging from 3.5 to 7.5 in batch and repacked soil column experiments. In the latter, changes in pH and redox potential were monitored upon transport of citrate‐phosphate buffer and pig slurry through the soil columns. The pH measurements were largely stable even upon substantial shifts in soil moisture content down to air‐dry conditions. The results of the pH measurements agreed with standard methods using settled soil suspensions in electrolyte solutions and the conventional combination (single‐probe) pH electrode. Testing the suspension effect, it was found that measuring pH directly in the soil is recommended. The pH measured in‐situ was closest to pH values determined in 0.01 M CaCl2 suspensions according to DIN ISO 10390 (DIN, 2005). The transport of citrate buffer and pig slurry as pH active substances through soil induced strong effects on the pH and in part on the redox potential; the reversible effects lasted over days, which may affect the mobility and speciation of nutrients and pollutants as well as microbial processes.
Validation of the Psychosis and Hallucinations Questionnaire in Non‐demented Patients with Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Shine James M. , Mills Joanna M.Z. , Qiu Jessica , O'Callaghan Claire , Terpening Zoe , Halliday Glenda M. , Naismith Sharon L. , Lewis Simon J.G.
Published: March 2015

People diagnosed with Parkinson's disease (PD) frequently experience visual and non‐visual hallucinations often with comorbid psychosis, however, there is currently no gold standard tool for accurately assessing these symptoms. To address this problem, we designed a novel questionnaire to evaluate the presence of hallucinatory and psychotic symptoms in PD, as well as related symptoms, such as attentional dysfunction and sleep disturbance. We administered the 20‐item Psychosis and Hallucinations Questionnaire (PsycH‐Q) and three common questionnaire measures in a large cohort of 197 patients with idiopathic PD via a postal survey. We established concurrent validity, convergent validity, and internal consistency of the questionnaire and then assessed test‐retest reliability in a subcohort of 44 patients. PsycH‐Q was found to be a valid instrument when analogous items were compared across three other existing tools (Spearman's rho range: 0.34–0.64; P < 0.01). PsycH‐Q demonstrated a strong relationship between self‐reported hallucinations and psychosis and symptoms of the broader hallucinatory phenotype (Kendall's tau = 0.41; P < 0.01; positive predictive value = 0.97). PsycH‐Q also displayed a high level of internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = 0.900; range, 0.696–0.923) and reproducibility (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.928). PsycH‐Q is a simple, valid, self‐completed instrument that reliably identifies hallucinations and psychosis in PD and has the ability to characterize related patterns of attentional and sleep impairments. As such, PsycH‐Q is a highly valuable tool for use in both clinical and research settings.
A “no‐touch‐technique” in mandibular reconstruction with reconstruction plate and free flap transfer
Authors: Fujiki Masahide , Sakuraba Minoru , Miyamoto Shimpei , Nagamatsu Shogo , Hayashi Ryuichi
Published: March 2015

Objective

Mandibular reconstruction with a mandibular reconstruction plate (MRP) and free flap transfer can involve serious plate‐related complications. The aim of our study is to present our new “no‐touch‐technique” which keeps an MRP not contaminated to saliva during the entire operation for the reduction of plate‐related complications.

Patients and Methods

Data were retrospectively collected on 29 patients who had undergone segmental mandibulectomy for head and neck tumor and mandibular reconstruction with an MRP and free flap transfer from 2004 to 2013; 12 patients were reconstructed with our no‐touch‐technique from 2010 to 2013 (no‐touch‐technique group), and 17 patients with the conventional technique from 2004 to 2009 (conventional group). A rectus abdominis musculocutaneous flap or anterolateral thigh flap was transferred in all patients. The rates of perioperative recipient site complications including total flap necrosis, partial flap necrosis, wound infection, fistula formation and wound dehiscence, and reoperation for complications were compared between the groups.

Results

All flaps were successfully transferred although one venous thrombosis formation occurred in the conventional group. The rate of wound infection in the no‐touch‐technique group (8.3%) was significantly lower than that in the conventional group (47.1%) (P = 0.04). Additionally, the rate of fistula formation in the no‐touch‐technique group (8.3%) tended to be lower than that in the conventional group (29.4%) (P = 0.35).

Conclusion

The results of our study showed that our no‐touch‐technique may be a safe and effective procedure for the prevention of perioperative plate‐related complications for mandibular reconstruction with an MRP and free flap transfer. © 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Microsurgery 36:115–120, 2016.
Optimal control problem for the modified Swift–Hohenberg equation in 3D case
Authors: Zhao Xiaopeng , Ning Zhen‐Hu
Published: March 2015

In this paper, for 3D modified Swift–Hohenberg equation, the optimal control problem is considered, the existence of optimal solution is proved, and the optimality system is established. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
A compatible‐incompatible decomposition of symmetric tensors in Lp with application to elasticity
Authors: Maggiani Giovanni Battista , Scala Riccardo , Goethem Nicolas Van
Published: March 2015

In this paper, we prove the Saint‐Venant compatibility conditions in Lp for p∈(1,+∞), in a simply connected domain of any space dimension. As a consequence, alternative, simple, and direct proofs of some classical Korn inequalities in Lp are provided. We also use the Helmholtz decomposition in Lp to show that every symmetric tensor in a smooth domain can be decomposed in a compatible part, which is the symmetric part of a displacement gradient, and in an incompatible part, which is the incompatibility of a certain divergence‐free tensor. Moreover, under a suitable Dirichlet boundary condition, this Beltrami‐type decomposition is proved to be unique. This decomposition result has several applications, one of which being in dislocation models, where the incompatibility part is related to the dislocation density and where 1 < p < 2. This justifies the need to generalize and prove these rather classical results in the Hilbertian case (p = 2), to the full range p∈(1,+∞). Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
The circular Bedrosian identity for translation‐invariant operators: existence and characterization
Authors: Hu Wei , Lin Rongrong , Zhang Haizhang
Published: March 2015

The analytic signal method via the circular Hilbert transform
is a critical tool in the time–frequency analysis of signals of finite duration. The circular Bedrosian identity
is of major theoretical and practical value in the method. The identity holds whenever the Fourier coefficients of f,g∈L2([−π,π]) are respectively supported on A = [−n,m] and
for some non‐negative integers 0≤n,m≤+∞. In this note, we investigate the existence of such an identity for a general‐bounded linear translation‐invariant operator on L2([−π,π]d) and for general support sets
. We give an insightful geometric characterization of the support sets for the existence. In addition, we find all the support sets for the partial Hilbert transforms. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Immunological blockade of adipocyte inflammation caused by increased matrix metalloproteinase‐cleaved osteopontin in obesity
Authors: Leitner Lukas , Schuch Karina , Jürets Alexander , Itariu Bianca K. , Keck Maike , Grablowitz Viktor , Aszmann Oskar C. , Prager Gerhard , Staffler Günther , Zeyda Maximilian , Stulnig Thomas M.
Published: March 2015

Objective

Osteopontin (OPN) is upregulated in adipose tissue (AT) in obesity and contributes to subclinical inflammation, adipocyte dysfunction, and insulin resistance. OPN effects can be increased by cleavage by matrix metalloproteinases (MMP). This study aimed at investigating the presence of OPN cleavage products in human AT in obesity and their impact on adipocyte function and immunological blockade of these effects.

Methods

AT of severely obese and control donors was investigated for OPN and MMP expression and the presence of OPN cleavage fragments. Primary adipocytes were isolated from human donors for in vitro investigation of cleaved OPN effects.

Results

OPN and MMP‐9 expression was highly correlated in AT from obese donors, and increased levels of cleaved OPN were detected in AT from obese individuals. The in vitro effect of OPN on adipocyte inflammation and insulin resistance was enhanced by protease cleavage, which could finally be blocked with a monoclonal antibody directed against the MMP cleavage site of OPN.

Conclusions

These findings show that MMP cleavage of OPN in AT occurs in obesity, thereby enhancing OPN's inflammatory and pro‐diabetic activity on adipocytes. Specifically targeting MMP‐cleaved OPN opens avenues for prevention and treatment of obesity‐induced type 2 diabetes.
Post‐traumatic stress disorder predicts future weight change in the Millennium Cohort Study
Authors: LeardMann Cynthia A. , Woodall Kelly A. , Littman Alyson J. , Jacobson Isabel G. , Boyko Edward J. , Smith Besa , Wells Timothy S. , Crum‐Cianflone Nancy F.
Published: March 2015

Objective

To prospectively examine the association between post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and weight change.

Methods

Longitudinal analysis techniques were used to examine data (2001–2008) from Millennium Cohort Study participants, consisting of U.S. service members and veterans. Using the PTSD Checklist–Civilian Version, PTSD was assessed as none, resolved, new onset, or persistent. Subsequent weight change was assessed as stable (≤3% loss or gain), >3% weight loss, >3% but <10% weight gain, and ≥10% weight gain.

Results

Of the 38,352 participants, 2391 (6.2%) had PTSD (838 resolved, 1024 new onset, and 529 persistent), and 11% of participants subsequently had ≥10% weight gain. In multivariable models, PTSD was associated with higher odds of ≥10% weight gain (new onset OR: 1.44 [95% CI: 1.20–1.73]; persistent OR: 1.51 [CI: 1.17–1.96]; resolved OR: 1.30 [CI: 1.05–1.60]) compared with those without PTSD. New‐onset and persistent PTSD were also associated with higher odds of >3% weight loss (OR: 1.41 [CI: 1.17–1.71]; OR: 1.42 [CI: 1.09–1.86], respectively).

Conclusions

PTSD is independently associated with a higher risk of weight gain and loss, the former of which leads to a higher prevalence of overweight and obesity and a higher risk of comorbidities associated with excessive body adiposity.
An In‐House Prevocational Training Program for Newly Discharged Psychiatric Inpatients: Exploring Its Employment Outcomes and the Predictive Factors
Authors: Chuang Wen‐Fang , Hwang Eric , Lee Hui‐Ling , Wu Shang‐Liang
Published: March 2015

Individuals with severe mental disorders continue to experience low employment rates. Occupational therapists play an important role in helping these individuals develop the skills and obtain the supports necessary for productive living. This retrospective cohort study aimed to explore employment outcomes and identify factors predictive of the outcomes of an in‐house prevocational training program designed for newly discharged psychiatric inpatients. Data retrieved from the files of 58 participants including demographics, diagnostic history, physical fitness, functional assessment results, the use of vocational counselling service and employment status were analyzed. The overall employment rates among the participants were high (67.2–79.3%) within the 6 months following the prevocational training program. No significant differences were found in the employment rates across the 1, 3 and 6‐month time periods post‐training. Vocational counselling service post‐training and hand function were two factors predictive of participants' employment outcomes. Occupational therapists should attend to the clients' need for continuous vocational support and carefully identify the personal, functional and environmental factors contributing to successful employment. Caution in interpreting the results is warranted because of the lack of control and randomization in this retrospective study. Additional longitudinal cohort or experimental studies would add further certainty to the current findings. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Risks associated with the production of biogas in Europe
Authors: Trávníček Petr , Kotek Luboš
Published: March 2015

This article discusses issues of risk in the production of biogas from primarily farm wastes. Biogas production is becoming widespread in Europe, and the number of accidents in these plants, both large‐scale and small, is increasing. Recent accident experience is summarized here. Compared with the petrochemical industry, damage levels in biogas production are low, but nonetheless worthy of increased application of modern safety and risk methodology. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers Process Saf Prog 34: 172–178, 2015
Multiple Biological Effects of Olive Oil By‐products such as Leaves, Stems, Flowers, Olive Milled Waste, Fruit Pulp, and Seeds of the Olive Plant on Skin
Authors: Kishikawa Asuka , Ashour Ahmed , Zhu Qinchang , Yasuda Midori , Ishikawa Hiroya , Shimizu Kuniyoshi
Published: March 2015

As olive oil production increases, so does the amount of olive oil by‐products, which can cause environmental problems. Thus, new ways to utilize the by‐products are needed. In the present study, five bioactive characteristics of olive oil by‐products were assessed, namely their antioxidant, anti‐bacterial, anti‐melanogenesis, anti‐allergic, and collagen‐production‐promoting activities. First, the extracts of leaves (May and October), stems (May and October), flowers, olive milled waste, fruit pulp and seeds were prepared using two safe solvents, ethanol and water. According to HPLC and LC/MS analysis and Folin–Ciocalteu assay, the ethanol extracts of the leaves (May and October), stems (May and October) and flowers contained oleuropein, and the ethanol extract of the stems showed the highest total phenol content. Oleuropein may contribute to the antioxidant and anti‐melanogenesis activities of the leaves, stems, and flowers. However, other active compounds or synergistic effects present in the ethanol extracts are also likely to contribute to the anti‐bacterial activity of the leaves and flowers, the anti‐melanogenesis activity of some parts, the anti‐allergic activity of olive milled waste, and the collagen‐production‐promoting activity of the leaves, stems, olive milled waste and fruit pulp. This study provides evidence that the by‐products of olive oil have the potential to be further developed and used in the skin care industry. Copyright © 2015 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Umbilical and fetal middle cerebral artery Doppler at 35–37 weeks' gestation in the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome
Authors: Akolekar R. , Syngelaki A. , Gallo D. M. , Poon L. C. , Nicolaides K. H.
Published: March 2015

Objective

To investigate the potential value of cerebroplacental ratio (CPR) at 36 weeks' gestation in the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome.

Methods

This was a screening study in 6178 singleton pregnancies at 35–37 weeks' gestation. Umbilical artery (UA) and fetal middle cerebral artery (MCA) pulsatility index (PI) were measured and the values were converted to multiples of the median (MoM) after adjustment from variables in maternal characteristics and medical history that affect the measurements. CPR was calculated by dividing MCA‐PI MoM by UA‐PI MoM. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to determine if measuring CPR improved the prediction of adverse perinatal outcome provided by maternal characteristics, medical history and obstetric factors. The detection rate (DR) and false‐positive rate (FPR) of screening by CPR were estimated for stillbirth, Cesarean section for fetal distress, umbilical arterial cord blood pH ≤ 7.0, umbilical venous cord blood pH ≤ 7.1, 5‐min Apgar score < 7 and admission to the neonatal unit (NNU) and neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Results

There was a linear association between CPR and both birth‐weight Z‐score and arterial or venous umbilical cord blood pH, but the steepness of the regression lines was inversely related to the interval from assessment to delivery. The performance of low CPR < 5th percentile in screening for each adverse outcome was poor, with DRs of 6–15% and a FPR of about 6%. In the small subgroup of the population delivering within 2 weeks of assessment, the DRs improved to 14–50%, but with a simultaneous increase in FPR, to about 10%.

Conclusion

The performance of CPR in routine screening for adverse perinatal outcome at 36 weeks' gestation is poor. Copyright © 2015 ISUOG. Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.
Objective reduction based on nonlinear correlation information entropy
Authors: Wang Handing , Yao Xin
Published: March 2015

It is hard to obtain the entire solution set of a many-objective optimization problem (MaOP) by multi-objective evolutionary algorithms (MOEAs) because of the difficulties brought by the large number of objectives. However, the redundancy of objectives exists in some problems with correlated objectives (linearly or nonlinearly). Objective reduction can be used to decrease the difficulties of some MaOPs. In this paper, we propose a novel objective reduction approach based on nonlinear correlation information entropy (NCIE). It uses the NCIE matrix to measure the linear and nonlinear correlation between objectives and a simple method to select the most conflicting objectives during the execution of MOEAs. We embed our approach into both Pareto-based and indicator-based MOEAs to analyze the impact of our reduction method on the performance of these algorithms. The results show that our approach significantly improves the performance of Pareto-based MOEAs on both reducible and irreducible MaOPs, but does not much help the performance of indicator-based MOEAs.
Unstable argininosuccinate lyase in variant forms of the urea cycle disorder argininosuccinic aciduria
Authors: Hu Liyan , Pandey Amit V. , Balmer Cécile , Eggimann Sandra , Rüfenacht Véronique , Nuoffer Jean‐Marc , Häberle Johannes
Published: March 2015

Loss of function of the urea cycle enzyme argininosuccinate lyase (ASL) is caused by mutations in theASLgene leading to ASL deficiency (ASLD). ASLD has a broad clinical spectrum ranging from life‐threatening severe neonatal to asymptomatic forms. Different levels of residual ASL activity probably contribute to the phenotypic variability but reliable expression systems allowing clinically useful conclusions are not yet available. In order to define the molecular characteristics underlying the phenotypic variability, we investigated allASLmutations that were hitherto identified in patients with late onset or mild clinical and biochemical courses by ASL expression in human embryonic kidney 293 T cells. We found residual activities >3 % of ASL wild type (WT) in nine of 11 ASL mutations. Six ASL mutations (p.Arg95Cys, p.Ile100Thr, p.Val178Met, p.Glu189Gly, p.Val335Leu, and p.Arg379Cys) with residual activities ≥16 % of ASL WT showed no significant or less than twofold reduced Kmvalues, but displayed thermal instability. Computational structural analysis supported the biochemical findings by revealing multiple effects including protein instability, disruption of ionic interactions and hydrogen bonds between residues in the monomeric form of the protein, and disruption of contacts between adjacent monomeric units in the ASL tetramer. These findings suggest that the clinical and biochemical course in variant forms of ASLD is associated with relevant residual levels of ASL activity as well as instability of mutant ASL proteins. Since about 30 % of known ASLD genotypes are affected by mutations studied here, ASLD should be considered as a candidate for chaperone treatment to improve mutant protein stability.
A new case of UDP‐galactose transporter deficiency (SLC35A2‐CDG): molecular basis, clinical phenotype, and therapeutic approach
Authors: Dörre K. , Olczak M. , Wada Y. , Sosicka P. , Grüneberg M. , Reunert J. , Kurlemann G. , Fiedler B. , Biskup S. , Hörtnagel K. , Rust S. , Marquardt T.
Published: March 2015

Congenital disorders of glycosylation (CDG) are a group of hereditary metabolic diseases characterized by abnormal glycosylation of proteins and lipids. Often, multisystem disorders with central nervous system involvement and a large variety of clinical symptoms occur. The main characteristics are developmental delay, seizures, and ataxia. In this paper we report the clinical and biochemical characteristics of a 5‐year‐old girl with a defective galactosylation of N‐glycans, resulting in developmental delay, muscular hypotonia, epileptic seizures, inverted nipples, and visual impairment. Next generation sequencing revealed a de novo mutation (c.797G > T, p.G266V) in the X‐chromosomal gene SLC35A2 (solute carrier family 35, UDP‐galactose transporter, member A2; MIM 300896). While this mutation was found heterozygous, random X‐inactivation of the normal allele will lead to loss of normal SLC35A2 activity in respective cells. The functional relevance of the mutation was demonstrated by complementation of UGT‐deficient MDCK‐RCAr and CHO‐Lec8 cells by normal UGT‐expression construct but not by the mutant version. The effect of dietary galactose supplementation on glycosylation was investigated, showing a nearly complete normalization of transferrin glycosylation.
Can mosses serve as model organisms for forest research?
Authors: Müller Stefanie J. , Gütle Desirée D. , Jacquot Jean-Pierre , Reski Ralf
Published: March 2015

Key message

Based on their impact on many ecosystems, we review the relevance of mosses in research regarding stress tolerance, metabolism, and cell biology. We introduce the potential use of mosses as complementary model systems in molecular forest research, with an emphasis on the most developed model mossPhyscomitrella patens.

Context and aims

Mosses are important components of several ecosystems. The moss P. patens is a well-established non-vascular model plant with a high amenability to molecular biology techniques and was designated as a JGI plant flagship genome. In this review, we will provide an introduction to moss research and highlight the characteristics of P. patens and other mosses as a potential complementary model system for forest research.

Methods

Starting with an introduction into general moss biology, we summarize the knowledge about moss physiology and differences to seed plants. We provide an overview of the current research areas utilizing mosses, pinpointing potential links to tree biology. To complement literature review, we discuss moss advantages and available resources regarding molecular biology techniques.

Results and conclusion

During the last decade, many fundamental processes and cell mechanisms have been studied in mosses and seed plants, increasing our knowledge of plant evolution. Additionally, moss-specific mechanisms of stress tolerance are under investigation to understand their resilience in ecosystems. Thus, using the advantages of model mosses such as P. patens is of high interest for various research approaches, including stress tolerance, organelle biology, cell polarity, and secondary metabolism.
Jean-Marie Teno’s Documentary Modernity: From Millennial Anxiety to Cinematic Kinship
Authors: Izzo Justin
Published: March 2015

This article examines discourses and cinematic representations of modernity in two documentary films by the Cameroonian director Jean-Marie Teno. In the first of these films,A Trip to the Country(2000), Teno investigates how ideals and aspirations of modernity as a state-sponsored project in Cameroon have their roots in the colonial period, and his film is characterized by a strong sense of anxiety linked to the turn of the millennium. In the second,Sacred Places(2009), modernity is given a different affective resonance and is linked to the pleasure of cinematic consumption in Ouagadougou as Teno situates African cinema in relation to its “brother,” the djembe drum. I argue here that a shift occurs between these two films and their affective engagements with modernity; this is a transition from a sense of millennial anxiety to a thematics of what I call “cinematic kinship.” I ultimately suggest that this shift allows Teno to outline new social roles for the African filmmaker as well as new relationships between African cinema and local publics.
The Elephant Problem: Science, Bureaucracy, and Kenya’s National Parks, 1955 to 1975
Authors: Schauer Jeff
Published: March 2015

This article examines debates about how to manage elephants in Kenya’s Tsavo National Park as a jumping off point for exploring the relationships among the local, national, and global constituencies that converged in the formulation of wildlife policy in Kenya during the 1950s and 1960s. Bridging the colonial and postcolonial years, the so-called Elephant Problem in Tsavo, while leveraging different international constituencies, pitted different administrative philosophies against one another and drew out different understandings of the application of ecological sciences in national parks. The result was a paralysis of policymaking which sparked an overhaul of the wildlife departments in the 1970s.
Clinical Diagnoses and Antimicrobials Predictive of Pediatric Antimicrobial Stewardship Recommendations: A Program Evaluation
Authors: Goldman Jennifer L. , Lee Brian R. , Hersh Adam L. , Yu Diana , Stach Leslie M. , Myers Angela L. , Jackson Mary Anne , Day James C. , McCulloh Russell J. , Newland Jason G.
Published: March 2015

BACKGROUND

The number of pediatric antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) is increasing and program evaluation is a key component to improve efficiency and enhance stewardship strategies.

OBJECTIVE

To determine the antimicrobials and diagnoses most strongly associated with a recommendation provided by a well-established pediatric ASP.

DESIGN AND SETTING

Retrospective cohort study from March 3, 2008, to March 2, 2013, of all ASP reviews performed at a free-standing pediatric hospital.

METHODS

ASP recommendations were classified as follows: stop therapy, modify therapy, optimize therapy, or consult infectious diseases. A multinomial distribution model to determine the probability of each ASP recommendation category was performed on the basis of the specific antimicrobial agent or disease category. A logistic model was used to determine the odds of recommendation disagreement by the prescribing clinician.

RESULTS

The ASP made 2,317 recommendations: stop therapy (45%), modify therapy (26%), optimize therapy (19%), or consult infectious diseases (10%). Third-generation cephalosporins (0.20) were the antimicrobials with the highest predictive probability of an ASP recommendation whereas linezolid (0.05) had the lowest probability. Community-acquired pneumonia (0.26) was the diagnosis with the highest predictive probability of an ASP recommendation whereas fever/neutropenia (0.04) had the lowest probability. Disagreement with ASP recommendations by the prescribing clinician occurred 22% of the time, most commonly involving community-acquired pneumonia and ear/nose/throat infections.

CONCLUSIONS

Evaluation of our pediatric ASP identified specific clinical diagnoses and antimicrobials associated with an increased likelihood of an ASP recommendation. Focused interventions targeting these high-yield areas may result in increased program efficiency and efficacy.

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol2015;00(0): 1–8