bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pediatric Inpatient Headache Therapy: What is Available
Authors: Kabbouche Marielle
Published: October 2015

Status migrainosus is defined by the international classification of headache disorders (ICHD) criteria as a debilitating migraine lasting more then 72 hours. The epidemiology of status migrainosus is still unknown in adult and children, and frequently underdiagnosed.

Children and adolescents often end up in the emergency room with an intractable headache that failed outpatient therapy. Six to seven percent of these children do not respond to acute infusion therapy and require hospitalization.

It is imperative that more aggressive therapy is considered when patients are affected by a severe intractable headache to prevent further disability and returning the child to baseline activity.

Multiple therapies are available for adults and children. Studies for acute therapy in the emergency room are available in adults and pediatric groups. Small studies are available for inpatient therapy in children and, along with available therapies for children and adolescents, are described in this review. A review of the literature shows growing evidence regarding the use of dihydroergotamine intravenously once patients are hospitalized. Effectiveness and safety have been proven in the last decades in adults and small studies in the pediatric populations.
Depression as a mediator of the relation between family functioning and functional disability in youth with chronic headaches
Authors: Kaczynski Karen , Gambhir Rupa , Caruso Alessandra , Lebel Alyssa
Published: October 2015

Objective

This retrospective chart review examined a mediation model of parent and family functioning, childhood depression, and functional disability in youth with chronic headaches. Specifically, we evaluated whether depression mediates the relations between protective parenting and functional disability and between family functioning and functional disability.

Background

Children and adolescents with chronic and recurrent headache report elevated symptoms of depression. Children with chronic pain conditions, including chronic headaches, have also been found to originate from families with greater conflict, poorer cohesion, and lower organizational structure, and impaired family functioning is associated with greater disability in youth with chronic pain.

Methods

Three hundred and eighty‐two patients ages 5‐17 years who underwent a multidisciplinary evaluation at a tertiary pediatric headache clinic were included in this study. Participants completed a pain intensity rating, the Children's Depression Inventory, and the Functional Disability Inventory. A parent completed the Family Relationship Index and the Adult Responses to Children's Symptoms questionnaires. Structural equation modeling was used to examine a mediation model and several alternative models.

Results

Mediation was not supported, but an alternative model with both direct and indirect pathways provided excellent fit to the data: χ2(1) = 0.745, P = .39; comparative fit index = 1.00, root mean square error of approximation = 0.00 (CI: 0.00–0.17). Family functioning (β = −0.19, P < .01) and protective parenting (β = 0.17, P < .01) were associated with depression, but not disability. Depression was linked to disability (β = 0.24, P < .01). There was an indirect pathway from family functioning to depression to disability (β = −0.05, P < .05).

Conclusions

Family context is an important variable to consider in youth with chronic headaches and disability. While many studies have identified family functioning and depressive symptoms as separately linked to functional impairment, to our knowledge, we are the first to demonstrate depression as an intermediary variable between family dysfunction and disability within the pediatric headache population.
It is time to change primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC): New nomenclature from “cirrhosis“ to “cholangitis”, and upcoming treatment based on unveiling pathology
Authors: Shimoda Shinji , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: October 2015

Primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC) is a chronic, organ‐specific, autoimmune liver disease characterized by progressive cholestasis, eventually leading to cirrhosis. Several lines of evidence have revealed a crucial role of adaptive as well as innate immune responses in the etiopathogenesis of PBC, and more recently, the biology of bile duct cells and genome‐wide association studies (GWAS) demonstrated several key molecules and pathways in this enigmatic disease. Although ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA) has been the only approved drug for PBC with clinical evidences for improvement of long‐term outcomes, a substantial population have suboptimal responses to UDCA, resulting in unfavorable outcomes. In this regard, second‐line treatment for patients refractory to UDCA is strongly awaited. In Japan, bezafibrate (BF) has been frequently used for this purpose, yet recent clinical trials failed to clearly demonstrate clinical efficacy of BF. Novel pharmacotherapies targeted to key molecules and pathways in PBC are upcoming. Finally, we sincerely call on all members of the Japan Society of Hepatology to use from this moment on the name “primary biliary cholangitis” for the disease known by its abbreviation PBC, in keeping with a very recent global agreement.
Disulfanyl peptide decreases melanin synthesis via receptor‐mediated ERK activation and the subsequent downregulation of MITF and tyrosinase
Authors: Choi H.‐R. , Kang Y.‐A. , Lee H.‐S. , Park K.‐C.
Published: October 2015

Objective

Bioactive peptides are commonly used in cosmeceutical purpose. This study was performed to search for an effective and short hypopigmenting peptide using normal human melanocytes as a screening model. A peptide that exhibits multitarget activities will be a promising peptide.

Methods

Depigmenting effects were tested in normal human melanocytes. One peptide was selected, and signalling mechanism was investigated by Western blotting and immunofluorescent microscopic examination.

Results

A novel hypopigmenting peptide (dSHP) has been found to inhibit the production of melanin. This peptide significantly decreases tyrosinase activity but was not effective in a direct in vitro assay. It also induces the prolonged activation of ERK, and subsequently downregulates the levels of MITF. PD98059 abolished the dSHP‐induced downregulation of MITF. These findings indicate that the dSHP‐induced activation of ERK contributes to a reduced melanin synthesis via the downregulation of MITF. Fluorescent microscopic studies were consistent with such findings. Pertussis toxin reverses the downregulation of MITF, which means that the receptor‐mediated ERK activation is involved. Moreover, it was also found that downregulation of MITF was clearly inhibited by lysosomal inhibitor (chloroquine).

Conclusion

Novel tetrapeptide dSHP reduces the melanin synthesis by a receptor‐mediated pathway. Furthermore, dSHP works by ERK activation and key transcription factor MITF degradation. Thus, it may be a good candidate as an effective hypopigmenting cosmetic agent.
Instantaneous Dispersion: A Window into Property Relationships for Optical Glass
Authors: Carlie Nathan A.
Published: October 2015

Optical applications in the 21st century are rapidly evolving, and materials with new capabilities are needed. Applications covering wide wavelength ranges are a particular challenge as materials can behave very differently in the ultraviolet, visible, and infrared spectral regions. A generalized model for selecting optical materials based on descriptions of dispersion and partial dispersion is presented. The relative behavior of various optical glasses is discussed based on glass composition. This is useful for both the optical designer and the glass maker as it illustrates the chemical origin of the dispersion curve and a possible path toward compositional tailoring of the optical properties to fit specific applications. This method can be extended from traditional optical glasses into the UV and infrared spectral ranges as it does not rely on predefined wavelengths at Fraunhofer lines.
Calciphylaxis: a case series and the role of radiology in diagnosis
Authors: Bonchak Jonathan G. , Park Kelly K. , Vethanayagamony Talentshia , Sheikh M. Mukarram , Winterfield Laura S.
Published: October 2015

Background

Calciphylaxis is a syndrome of vascular calcification most commonly affecting patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) on hemodialysis. Because of its high mortality rate, early diagnosis and treatment are necessary. Although diagnosis is usually based on skin biopsy, histopathology is often nonspecific. As the role of imaging in calciphylaxis has not been studied extensively, we examined the utility of radiology in the diagnosis of this disease.

Methods

A thorough review of electronic medical records for 2005–2013 at Loyola University Medical Center yielded 10 patients with biopsy‐proven calciphylaxis. Using the radiological picture archiving and communication system (PACS), all imaging studies of the affected body part obtained within 6 months of diagnosis were analyzed and tabulated.

Results

All 10 patients had undergone imaging (computed tomography, ultrasound, plain radiography, and/or mammography) of the affected anatomy prior to diagnosis by skin biopsy. Nine of these patients were noted to have moderate‐to‐severe soft tissue vascular calcification in the area of skin biopsy.

Conclusions

This case series supports the suggestion that findings of superficial vascular calcifications on imaging studies are sensitive for the diagnosis of calciphylaxis. Used in conjunction with histopathological, clinical, and laboratory data, radiology can serve an important role in the diagnosis of calciphylaxis.
Verrucous presentation in patients with mycosis fungoides
Authors: Schlichte Megan J. , Talpur Rakhshandra , Venkatarajan Sangeetha , Curry Jonathan L. , Nagarajan Priyadharsini , Duvic Madeleine
Published: October 2015

Mycosis fungoides is a potentially fatal skin condition whose variable clinical appearance may mimic a variety of benign, inflammatory dermatoses, making it a diagnostic challenge. Three patients with mycosis fungoides, treated with multiple approved topical and systemic therapies, presented with acquired verrucous lesions on the extremities. The verrucous presentation of mycosis fungoides is one of the many atypical forms of the disease, with a paucity of documented cases in the medical literature. Although rare, verrucous and hyperkeratotic lesions in mycosis fungoides may increase the risk of considerable diagnostic delay if clinicians do not maintain a high degree of suspicion in cases of acquired verrucous lesions in the appropriate clinical setting.
Psychometric validation of the Psoriasis Symptom Diary using Phase III study data from patients with chronic plaque psoriasis
Authors: Strober Bruce , Zhao Yang , Tran Mary Helen , Gnanasakthy Ari , Nyirady Judit , Papavassilis Charis , Nelson Lauren M. , McLeod Lori D. , Mordin Margaret , Gottlieb Alice B. , Elewski Boni E. , Lebwohl Mark
Published: October 2015

Objectives

This analysis aimed to confirm the reliability, validity, and responsiveness of the Psoriasis Symptom Diary (PSD) using data from two Phase III studies in patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis.

Methods

Data from two randomized, double‐blind, double‐dummy, placebo‐controlled, multicenter Phase III studies (n = 820) assessing the efficacy and safety of secukinumab were used. The PSD (24‐h recall; 0–10 numeric rating scale) was electronically administered each evening. Test–retest reliability was determined using intraclass correlations. Construct validity hypotheses were evaluated via correlations with the Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI), Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA), Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI), EuroQoL 5‐Dimension Health Status Questionnaire, and Patient Global Impression of Change (PGIC). Discriminating ability and responsiveness were evaluated by estimating mean differences and effect sizes between known groups (using the PASI and IGA). Phase II‐derived, anchor‐based PGIC thresholds and cumulative distribution function (CDF) plots described meaningful change.

Results

Items on the PSD yielded high intraclass coefficients (>0.90). Correlations were in the anticipated direction and by week 12 were moderate to strong (0.41–0.73) in magnitude, demonstrating construct validity. Average PSD item scores differed predictably and significantly between known groups. Responsiveness effect size estimates were moderate to large (0.6–1.5), and CDF plots showed the percentage of responders to be consistently higher in treatment than in placebo arms across the range of change in PSD scores.

Conclusions

The PSD is reliable, valid, and responsive, and represents a valid tool to enhance treatment decisions in patients with moderate to severe plaque psoriasis.
Smoking and polyphenols’ addition to improve freshwater mullet (Mugil cephalus) fillets’ quality attributes during refrigerated storage
Authors: Bouzgarrou Olfa , El Mzougui Nadia , Sadok Saloua
Published: October 2015

The combined effects of hot smoking and added quince polyphenol (0.8% and 1.6% v/w) on the quality attributes of mullet (Mugil cephalus) fillets were evaluated. Biochemical parameters that were monitored in the fillets during 75 days of storage (4 ± 1 °C) included trimethylamine (TMA‐N), volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N), fatty acids and amino acids. Data were submitted to principal component analysis (PCA) which revealed that the smoking process combined with polyphenols’ treatment was negatively correlated with TVB‐N, TMA‐N, lipids, indices of lipid quality (index of atherogenicity (IA); index of thrombogenicity (IT)) and storage time. Health concern related to the flesh content of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) following hot smoking was also evaluated, and analysis showed that the sum of 4 of the PAHs (chrysene, benzo(b)fluoranthene, benz(a)anthracene and BaP) remained far below the maximum limit set by the European Commission. Sensory analysis revealed that the smoked mullet fillet treated with a low dose of polyphenols was a very acceptable new product.
Influence of ethanol/water ratio in ultrasound and high‐pressure/high‐temperature phenolic compound extraction from agri‐food waste
Authors: Paini Marco , Casazza Alessandro A. , Aliakbarian Bahar , Perego Patrizia , Binello Arianna , Cravotto Giancarlo
Published: October 2015

The valorisation and management of agri‐food waste are currently hot investigation topics which probe the recovery of valuable compounds, such as polyphenols. In this study, high‐pressure/high‐temperature extraction (HPTE) and ultrasound‐assisted extraction (UAE) have been used to study the recovery of phenolic compounds from grape marc and olive pomace in hydroalcoholic solutions. The main phenolic compounds in both extracts were identified by HPLC‐DAD. Besides extraction yield (total polyphenol and flavonoid content) and the antiradical power, polyphenol degradation under HPTE and UAE has also been studied. HPTE with ethanol 75% gave higher phenolic extraction yields: 73.8 ± 1.4 mg of gallic acid equivalents per gram of dried matter and 60.0 mg of caffeic acid equivalents per gram of dried matter for grape marc and olive pomace, respectively. In this study, the efficient combination of ethanol/water mixture with HPTE or UAE has been used to enhance the recovery of phenolic compounds from grape marc and olive pomace. HPLC‐DAD showed that UAE prevents phenolic species degradation damage because of its milder operative conditions.
Anthocyanin profile of young red wines of Tannat, Syrah and Merlot made using maceration enzymes and cold soak
Authors: González‐Neves Gustavo , Favre Guzmán , Piccardo Diego , Gil Graciela
Published: October 2015

Anthocyanins are the main pigments of young red wines. The aim of this work was to evaluate the anthocyanin composition of red wines produced by alternative procedures of winemaking and different grape varieties. For this purpose, wines of Tannat, Syrah and Merlot were made by traditional maceration (TM), addition of maceration enzymes (ENZ) and cold soak (CS). Syrah wines had the highest proportions of malvidin (86.0 ± 1.0) and peonidin (5.5 ± 0.4), while Tannat wines had the highest of delphinidin (6.9 ± 0.8), petunidin (13.2 ± 0.6) and nonacylated glucosides (73.6 ± 0.6). Cold soak increased the anthocyanins contents in Tannat and Merlot wines. In turn, maceration enzymes affect the anthocyanin profile and the stability of the colour of wines. Discriminant analysis of data showed significant separation of the wines of each variety as the anthocyanin profile showed the varietal fingerprint, despite the different winemaking procedures.
Effect of relative humidity and light conditions on the oxidative stability of sunflower oil blends stabilised with synthetic and natural antioxidants
Authors: Upadhyay Rohit , Mishra Hari Niwas
Published: October 2015

The effect of relative humidity (RH) and light conditions on the oxidative stability of sunflower oil (SO) stabilised with oleoresin rosemary + ascorbyl palmitate (SOR), sage + ascorbyl palmitate (SOS) and tertiary butyl hydroquinone (SOT) was investigated. The SO without additive (SOC) served as positive control. Oil samples were subjected to 3 RH (29%, 52% and 75%) and two light conditions (dark, D and fluorescent light (600 lx), L) at 60 °C for 7 days. The oxidative stability was monitored by peroxide value (PV), conjugated diene value (CDV), free fatty acids (FFAs) and Rancimat induction period (IP). A direct relationship was noted between RH and increase in PV, CDV and FFA levels irrespective of light conditions. The detrimental effect of light on the oxidative stability was prominently noted at higher RH (75%) which followed an order: SOC > SOT > SOR > SOS. The samples stored under lower RH (29% and 52%), and dark conditions were better stabilised than light‐exposed counterparts.
Optimising clarification of carrot juice by bacterial crude pectinase
Authors: Uzuner Sibel , Cekmecelioglu Deniz
Published: October 2015

This study was undertaken to search for potential use of crude bacterial pectinase enzyme produced from Bacillus subtilis grown on hazelnut shell hydrolysate in clarification of carrot juice and to optimize the enzyme load, pH and time using the Box–Behnken response surface methodology (RSM). The carrot juice was treated with the crude pectinase enzyme (5.60 U mL−1) at different concentrations (0.1–0.5%), pH (4–7), and time (2–6 h). The obtained enzyme was also compared with commercial fungal pectinase at identical conditions. RSM provided optimal clarification conditions of 0.5% (w/v) enzyme load, 7.0 pH, and 6 h of time estimating 100% clarity, whose experimental counterpart was 94.47 ± 0.01%. High values of coefficient of determination (R2 = 0.9631), predicted R2 (0.8989) and insignificant lack‐of‐fit (0.12) also showed that the model was successful in predicting % clarity for various combinations. This study also indicated that crude bacterial pectinase providing about 95% clarity is superior to commercial fungal pectinase, which gave 78% clarity under tested conditions, in terms of clarification ability for carrot juice.
Development of a rapid and highly sensitive determination of triacylglycerol in lipids fraction of foodstuffs
Authors: Tsuzuki Wakako
Published: October 2015

This study describes the development of a fast and accurate method to determine the triacylglycerols (TAGs) content in lipids fraction. It comprises a solid phase chromatographic separation and a use of a commercially available kit followed by spectrophotometric determination. Evaluations of TAGs contents in heated edible oils (canola oil and sesame oil) by the new methods were good agreements with those by the conventional open column method. Furthermore, this method was applied to estimate TAGs contents in the lipids from rice grains with different polishing levels.
Phase II enzyme induction and anti‐inflammatory effects of crude extracts and secondary fractions obtained from bran from five black glutinous rice cultivars
Authors: Ngamdee Paradorn , Jiamyangyuen Sudarat , Parkin Kirk L.
Published: October 2015

Methanolic extracts of bran from black glutinous rice cultivars were screened for potential health benefits using cellular bioassays for quinone reductase (QR) induction in murine hepatoma cells and inhibition of NO production in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐activated RAW 264.7 macrophages. Fractionation of the crude extract by semi‐preparative HPLC afforded respective fractions enriched in phenolic acids, anthocyanins and proanthocyanidins. The relative potency of QR induction was phenolic acids > proanthocyanidins > anthocyanins, and the activity of the crude extract was conserved among the aggregate of these fractions. In contrast, all three fractions were more potent than the crude extract in terms of anti‐inflammatory effect. This suggests synergism effects among anti‐inflammatory agents through partial purification. Inhibition of macrophage NO production by binary mixtures of gallic acid or caffeic acid with the anthocyanin‐rich fraction indicated potential synergism. These results warrant further efforts to identify the active agents and substantiate synergistic interactions through isobologram analysis.
Physicochemical and fatty acid characteristics of stewed pork as affected by cooking method and time
Authors: Li Yingqiu , Li Chunbao , Li He , Lin Xisha , Deng Shaolin , Zhou Guanghong
Published: October 2015

This study was designed to investigate the effects of cooking on physicochemical and fatty acid characteristics of stewed pork. Pre‐fried or raw pork belly cubes were stewed for 60, 90, 120, 150 or 180 min. After cooking, proximate chemical composition, texture, sensory evaluation, lipid oxidation, fatty acid profiles and cholesterol content were determined. Prolonged cooking time resulted in higher percentages of dry matter, fat and fat loss in stewed cubes (P < 0.01), and pre‐frying also increased fat loss. Tenderness and elasticity values of texture profile analysis and sensory scores were the highest for the cubes stewed for 180 min or by pre‐frying combined with stewing for 150 min. Pre‐frying and extended cooking time significantly increased lipid oxidation (P < 0.01). Cooking modified fatty acid profiles which altered the derived cardiovascular indices, and reduced cholesterol content. Prolonged stewing improved eating quality and most nutritional values of pork belly.
Crystal Growth of F‐Phlogopite from Glasses of the SiO2–Al2O3–MgO–K2O–F System
Authors: Casasola Raquel , Pérez Juan M. , Romero Maximina
Published: October 2015

A study on the devitrification of fluorophyllosilicate glass precursors is presented. The research has been focused on the early stages of the crystallization process and shows the variation in the crystallization mechanism with increasing the fluorine content. The devitrification process has been studied by means of differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) and field‐emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). These complementary techniques established that both surface (heterogeneous nucleation) and volume (internal homogeneous nucleation) mechanisms are present in the crystallization process of fluorophlogopite‐based glasses, the latter being predominant. By increasing the percentage of fluorine in the parent glass, a variation in the location of the first crystals developed from the internal volume of the glass toward the external surface was observed. Such an alteration in the crystallization mechanism was also checked by examining the microstructure of crystallized samples prepared under short‐time treatments.
Coupled Experimental and Thermodynamic Optimization of the Na2O–FeO–Fe2O3–Al2O3 System: Part 1. Phase Diagram Experiments
Authors: Moosavi‐Khoonsari Elmira , Hudon Pierre , Jung In‐Ho
Published: October 2015

As part of the complete thermodynamic modeling of the Na2O–FeO–Fe2O3–Al2O3 system, the Na2O–FeO–Fe2O3–Al2O3 phase diagrams in air (1583 and 1698 K) and at Fe saturation (1573 and 1673 K) were investigated using the quenching method followed by Electron Probe Micro‐Analyzer (EPMA) and X‐ray Diffraction (XRD) phase analysis. General features of the phase diagrams in this system were well revealed for the first time. A complete meta‐oxide solid solution between NaAlO2 and NaFeO2 was observed. An extensive solid solution of Na2(Al,Fe)12O19 Na‐βˮ‐alumina was found and the existence of a miscibility gap in this solution was confirmed. Several compatibility triangles of three‐phase assemblages were also identified in air and at Fe saturation.
The Role of Information in Innovation and Competition
Authors: Akcigit Ufuk , Liu Qingmin
Published: October 2015

Innovation is typically a trial-and-error process. While some research paths lead to the innovation sought, others result in dead ends. Because firms benefit from their competitors working in the wrong direction, they do not reveal their dead-end findings. Time and resources are wasted on projects that other firms have already found to be fruitless. We offer a simple model with two firms and two research lines to study this prevalent problem. We characterize the equilibrium in a decentralized environment that necessarily entails significant efficiency losses due to wasteful dead-end replication and an information externality that leads to an early abandonment of the risky project. We show that different types of firms follow different innovation strategies and create different kinds of welfare losses. In an extension of the core model, we also study a centralized mechanism whereby firms are incentivized to disclose their actions and share their private information in a timely manner.
Perceived Bonding by Parents Living With HIV and Their Adolescent Children
Authors: Li Li , Liang Li‐Jung , Ji Guoping , Lin Chunqing , Xiao Yongkang
Published: October 2015

This study examined the associations between parent and adolescent reports of bonding within families and the relationships among reported parental bonding, family conflict and adolescent stress. A total of 118 families from Anhui, China, were recruited for this study. Two family‐level bonding scores were constructed: the average of and difference between parent and adolescent bonding scores. Study results indicated that the difference between parent and adolescent bonding reports was associated with higher levels of adolescent daily stress. A negative association was observed between average family‐level bonding and the level of parent‐reported conflict. Our findings highlight the importance of combining data from both parents and adolescents when studying issues related to family wellbeing.
Impact of cage stocking density on egg laying characteristics and related stress and immunity parameters of Japanese quails in subtropics
Authors: El‐Tarabany M. S.
Published: October 2015

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different cage stocking densities on egg production parameters, as well as related stress and immunity indices in Japanese quails under subtropical Egyptian conditions. Two hundred and sixteen birds of Japanese quail at 14th week of age were used in this experiment. The birds were divided randomly into three groups: 60, 72 and 84. Each group subdivided into 4 replicates, where the cages' floor spaces were 200 (S1), 167 (S2) and 143 (S3) cm2/bird, respectively. Birds housed at 200 cm2/bird (S1) had superior fertility (fertility % (p = 0.013) and hatchability % (p = 0.041)), egg production (egg weight (p = 0.034) and egg mass (p = 0.001)) and immunity parameters (higher geometric mean of antibody titres against Newcastle disease virus, p = 0.024). Furthermore, they had higher internal egg quality score: albumen height (p = 0.003), yolk height (p = 0.023), yolk index (p = 0.006) and Haugh unit (p = 0.035). Birds housed at 143 cm2/bird (S3) had the lowest total leucocytic count and lymphocyte % (p = 0.022), but the highest H/L ratio (p = 0.001). Corticosterone concentration was lower in S1group (p = 0.031) than that in groups housed at higher densities. Japanese quail housed at high densities revealed drop in fertility, hatchability, production and immunity parameters, indicating a detrimental effects on both welfare and economic income.
Lack of genetic isolation by distance, similar genetic structuring but different demographic histories in a fig‐pollinating wasp mutualism
Authors: Tian Enwei , Nason John D. , Machado Carlos A. , Zheng Linna , Yu Hui , Kjellberg Finn
Published: October 2015

Historical abiotic factors such as climatic oscillations and extreme climatic events as well as biotic factors have shaped the structuring of species' genetic diversity. In obligate species‐specific mutualisms, the biogeographic histories of the interacting species are tightly linked. This could be particularly true for nuclear genes in the Ficus‐pollinating wasp mutualistic association as the insects disperse pollen from their natal tree. In this study, we compare spatial genetic structure of plant and pollinator for the Ficus hirta–Valisia javana association throughout southeast China including Hainan Island, for both nuclear and cytoplasmic markers. We show that dispersal of the insect leads to plant and insect presenting similar signatures of lack of genetic isolation by distance for nuclear genes on the continent over a distance of 1000 km. But we also show that the demographic histories of plant and insect are strikingly different. This is in agreement with extreme climatic events leading to transient regional extinctions of the insects, associated with local survival of the plants. We also observe evidence of genetic differentiation for both wasps and fig‐tree between the continent and Hainan Island, although the Qiongzhou Strait is only on average 30 km wide, suggesting that geographic isolation by itself has not been sufficient to generate this differentiation. Hence, our results suggest that in highly dispersive mutualistic systems, isolation‐by‐dispersal limitation across a geographic barrier could be supplemented by isolation by adaptation, and maybe by coevolution, allowing further genetic divergence. In such systems, species may frequently be composed of a single population.
A unique ecological niche fosters hybridization of oak‐tree and vineyard isolates of Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Clowers Katie J. , Will Jessica L. , Gasch Audrey P.
Published: October 2015

Differential adaptation to distinct niches can restrict gene flow and promote population differentiation within a species. However, in some cases the distinction between niches can collapse, forming a hybrid niche with features of both environments. We previously reported that distinctions between vineyards and oak soil present an ecological barrier that restricts gene flow between lineages of Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Vineyard isolates are tolerant to stresses associated with grapes while North American oak strains are particularly tolerant to freeze–thaw cycles. Here, we report the isolation of S. cerevisiae strains from Wisconsin cherry trees, which display features common to vineyards (e.g. high sugar concentrations) and frequent freeze–thaw cycles. Genome sequencing revealed that the isolated strains are highly heterozygous and represent recent hybrids of the oak × vineyard lineages. We found that the hybrid strains are phenotypically similar to vineyard strains for some traits, but are more similar to oak strains for other traits. The cherry strains were exceptionally good at growing in cherry juice, raising the possibility that they have adapted to this niche. We performed transcriptome profiling in cherry, oak and vineyard strains and show that the cherry‐tree hybrids display vineyard‐like or oak‐like expression, depending on the gene sets, and in some cases, the expression patterns linked back to shared stress tolerances. Allele‐specific expression in these natural hybrids suggested concerted cis‐regulatory evolution at sets of functionally regulated genes. Our results raise the possibility that hybridization of the two lineages provides a genetic solution to the thriving in this unique niche.
Selection and sex‐biased dispersal in a coastal shark: the influence of philopatry on adaptive variation
Authors: Portnoy D. S. , Puritz J. B. , Hollenbeck C. M. , Gelsleichter J. , Chapman D. , Gold J. R.
Published: October 2015

Sex‐biased dispersal is expected to homogenize nuclear genetic variation relative to variation in genetic material inherited through the philopatric sex. When site fidelity occurs across a heterogeneous environment, local selective regimes may alter this pattern. We assessed spatial patterns of variation in nuclear‐encoded, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and sequences of the mitochondrial control region in bonnethead sharks (Sphyrna tiburo), a species thought to exhibit female philopatry, collected from summer habitats used for gestation. Geographic patterns of mtDNA haplotypes and putatively neutral SNPs confirmed female philopatry and male‐mediated gene flow along the northeastern coast of the Gulf of Mexico. A total of 30 outlier SNP loci were identified; alleles at over half of these loci exhibited signatures of latitude‐associated selection. Our results indicate that in species with sex‐biased dispersal, philopatry can facilitate sorting of locally adaptive variation, with the dispersing sex facilitating movement of potentially adaptive variation among locations and environments.
Characterization and follow‐up of esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction detected by high resolution manometry
Authors: Pérez‐Fernández M.‐T. , Santander C. , Marinero A. , Burgos‐Santamaría D. , Chavarría‐Herbozo C.
Published: October 2015

Background

Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction (EGJOO) is a newly described diagnostic entity growing in importance due to the use of high resolution manometry (HRM). There is little knowledge regarding its incidence, etiopathogeny, long‐term evolution, and most suitable treatment. Our objective was to increase the awareness of EGJOO to optimize the management of these patients.

Methods

We conducted a historical (retrospective and prospective) study of patients diagnosed with EGJOO using HRM combined with multichannel intraluminal impedance, comparing their manometric and impedance characteristics with those of a control group. Symptoms, etiology of obstruction, acid exposure, clinical course (and its associated factors), and response to treatment were also evaluated in the EGJOO group.

Key Results

Forty‐four subjects were included (28 patients and 16 controls). Esophagogastric junction outflow obstruction patients presented incomplete esophageal transit more frequently than controls. Patients with structural obstruction had dysphagia more frequently than patients with functional obstruction, and different manometric, impedance, and pH‐metric patterns. Over one‐third of the EGJOO patients presented a spontaneous resolution of symptoms without EGJOO treatment. In the multivariate analysis, the variables associated with this spontaneous symptomatic resolution included typical symptoms of gastro‐esophageal reflux disease or epigastralgia as the main symptom and resting or basal pressure of the upper esophageal sphincter <50 mmHg.

Conclusions & Inferences

The majority of EGJOO patients presented intact peristalsis which may compensate for the lack of EGJ relaxation. In the EGJOO patients presenting favorable factors associated with a spontaneous resolution of symptoms, invasive treatments should be considered with special caution. Structural etiologies are more amenable to management, while the remainder may improve without intervention.
Near‐Fatal ICD Lead Dysfunction with Implications for ICD Testing
Authors: WUTZLER ALEXANDER , ATTANASIO PHILIPP , HAVERKAMP WILHELM , BLASCHKE FLORIAN
Published: October 2015

A 31‐year‐old male patient with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) experienced ventricular fibrillation. After resuscitation, no communication between the device and an ICD programmer was possible. The ICD was explanted, no signs of destruction were visible, and the ICD leads revealed normal values. A new ICD was implanted, interrogation values were stable. However, immediately after defibrillation testing the connection between programmer and ICD was interrupted and could not be established again. The device showed burn marks and a hole in the can. Analysis revealed an isolation defect of the ICD lead, which was not detectable with standard interrogation.
Evaluation of Permanent or Transient Complete Heart Block after Open Heart Surgery for Congenital Heart Disease
Authors: AYYILDIZ PELIN , KASAR TANER , OZTURK ERKUT , OZYILMAZ ISA , TANIDIR IBRAHIM CANSARAN , GUZELTAS ALPER , ERGUL YAKUP
Published: October 2015

Background

The features of pediatric patients with postoperative transient and permanent complete atrioventricular (AV) block (CAVB) were compared.

Methods

Patients who developed CAVB in postoperative period after congenital cardiac surgery between 2010–2015 were included in the study. They were classified as patients with transient CAVB and with permanent CAVB. The demographics and perioperative and postoperative variables of the groups were evaluated.

Results

A total of 1,550 patients underwent surgery during the study period. CAVB was determined in 96 patients (6.2%) in the early postoperative period: 66 had transient CAVB, 30 had permanent CAVB that necessitated pacemaker implantation. The median body weight and age at surgery were similar in both groups. The most frequent diagnosis was tetralogy of Fallot (TOF, n = 22), complete AV septal defect (AVSD, n = 15), and ventricular septal defect (n = 13). Junctional ectopic tachycardia (JET) developed in 27 patients with transient CAVB and in four with permanent CAVB (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the congenital cardiac pathology, the cardiopulmonary bypass time, cross‐clamp time, and the presence of preoperative arrhythmia between the groups (P > 0.05). The duration of intensive care unit stay was 6 days (range 2–25) for patients with transient CAVB and 13 days (range 4–90) for patients with permanent CAVB. The duration of hospital stay was 10 days (range 2–33) for patients with transient CAVB and 20 days (range 10–90) for patients with permanent CAVB. Both were significantly longer in the patients with permanent CAVB.

Conclusions

Complete AVSD and TOF are the most risky operations for the development of postoperative AV block. Ninety‐seven percent of the patients with transient CAVB regained AV conduction within the first 10 postoperative days. The high incidence of JET in patients with transient CAVB was striking.
Feasibility of an inpatient exercise intervention for children undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplant
Authors: Bogg Tina Fung Ting , Broderick Carolyn , Shaw Peter , Cohn Richard , Naumann Fiona Leigh
Published: October 2015

With improving survival rates following HSCT in children, QOL and management of short‐ and long‐term effects need to be considered. Exercise may help mitigate fatigue and declines in fitness and strength. The aims of this study were to assess the feasibility of an inpatient exercise intervention for children undergoing HSCT and observe the changes in physical and psychological health. Fourteen patients were recruited, mean age 10 yr. A 6MWT, isometric upper and lower body strength, balance, fatigue, and QOL were assessed prior to Tx and six wk post‐Tx. A supervised exercise program was offered five days per week during the inpatient period and feasibility assessed through uptake rate. The study had 100% program completion and 60% uptake rate of exercise sessions. The mean (±s.d.) weekly activity was 117.5 (±79.3) minutes. Younger children performed significantly more minutes of exercise than adolescents. At reassessment, strength and fatigue were stabilized while aerobic fitness and balance decreased. QOL revealed a non‐statistical trend towards improvement. No exercise‐related adverse events were reported. A supervised inpatient exercise program is safe and feasible, with potential physiological and psychosocial benefits.
Correlation of rabbit antithymocyte globulin serum levels and clinical outcomes in children who received hematopoietic stem cell transplantation from an alternative donor
Authors: Elmahdi Shaimaa , Muramatsu Hideki , Narita Atsushi , Torii Yuka , Ismael Olfat , Kawashima Nozomu , Okuno Yusuke , Sekiya Yuko , Xu Yinyan , Wang Xinan , Hama Asahito , Ito Yoshinori , Takahashi Yoshiyuki , Kojima Seiji
Published: October 2015

We analyzed the correlation between rabbit ATG (rATG) serum levels and clinical outcomes in 37 children who received rATG at a total dose of 10 or 15 mg/kg during HSCT conditioning from an alternative donor. Fourteen patients had advanced malignant diseases, 13 had severe AA, and 10 had inherited disorders. Complete engraftment was achieved in all patients, and no rejection occurred. The cumulative incidence of grades II–IV acute GVHD and extensive chronic GVHD was 27% (95% CI, 12.5–39.6%) and 8.1% (95% CI, 0–23.1%), respectively. Multivariate analysis identified lower rATG levels at week 4 as an independent risk factor in the development of grades II–IV acute GVHD (p = 0.037). Serious infections were not observed in any patient following HSCT. No correlation was found between EBV reactivation and rATG levels at week 2 and week 4 after HSCT. Furthermore, no correlation was found between relapse and rATG levels two and four wk post‐transplantation. The probability of five‐yr OS among patients was 70.3% (95% CI, 59.8–79.2%). Our results suggest that targeted rATG administration may protect patients from severe acute GVHD without increasing the risk of EBV reactivation or relapse.
HLA, GVHD, and parenteral nutrition are risk factors for hepatic complications in pediatric HSCT
Authors: Thorvaldson Linda , Remberger Mats , Winiarski Jacek , Omazic Brigitta , Fischler Björn , Sundin Mikael
Published: October 2015

Hepatic dysfunction is common after allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT). The aim of this retrospective study was to determine the risk factors, frequency, and outcome of hepatic complications post‐HSCT in children. Two hundred and thirty‐seven cases of allogeneic HSCT in children were included. Data on biochemical liver function at start of HSCT, at +1, +3, +6, and +9 months, and at each subsequent yearly follow‐up were extracted. Patients were stratified into groups with hepatocellular (none and mild, and moderate to severe) and hepatobiliary (none and present) dysfunction. Statistical analysis included variables such as diagnosis, age, conditioning regimen, and HLA type. Results: One hundred and fifty‐six (66%) patients displayed hepatocellular dysfunction post‐HSCT. In most cases transient, but 32% had a persistent abnormality three yr post‐HSCT. Risk factors were chronic GVHD (OR 4.20, p = 0.003) and donor HLA‐A*01 (OR 2.97, p = 0.02). HLA‐DQB1*03 decreased the risk (OR 0.35, p = 0.02). Hepatobiliary dysfunction was less frequent (12%) but carried a poor prognosis. aGVHD grade II–IV (OR 2.7, p = 0.02) and long‐term TPN (OR 3.25, p = 0.01) increased the risk. Conclusion: GVHD is an important risk factor for liver dysfunction post‐HSCT. Specific HLA types may also contribute as a risk factor, while others seem to have a protective effect.
Differential physiological response of the grapevine varieties Touriga Nacional and Trincadeira to combined heat, drought and light stresses
Authors: Carvalho L. C. , Coito J. L. , Gonçalves E. F. , Chaves M. M. , Amâncio S.
Published: October 2015

Worldwide, extensive agricultural losses are attributed to drought, often in combination with heat in Mediterranean climate regions, where grapevine traditionally grows. The available scenarios for climate change suggest increases in aridity in these regions. Under natural conditions plants are affected by a combination of stresses, triggering synergistic or antagonistic physiological, metabolic or transcriptomic responses unique to the combination. However the study of such stresses in a controlled environment can elucidate important mechanisms by allowing the separation of the effects of individual stresses. To gather those effects, cuttings of two grapevine varieties, Touriga Nacional (TN) and Trincadeira (TR), were grown under controlled conditions and subjected to three abiotic stresses (drought – WS, heat – HS and high light – LS) individually and in combination two‐by‐two (WSHS, WSLS, HSLS) or all three (WSHSLS). Photosynthesis, water status, contents of H2O2, abscisic acid and metabolites of the ascorbate‐glutathione cycle were measured in the leaves. Common and distinct response features were identified in the different stress combinations. Photosynthesis was not hindered in TN by LS, while even individual stresses severely affect photosynthesis in TR. Abscisic acid may be implicated in grapevine osmotic responses since it is correlated with tolerance parameters, especially in combined stresses involving drought. Overall, the responses to drought‐including treatments were clearly distinct to those without drought. From the specific behaviours of the varieties, it can be concluded that TN shows a higher capacity for heat dissipation and for withstanding high light intensities, indicating better adjustment to warm conditions, provided that water supply is plentiful.
The use of desiccation to treat Staphylococcus aureus biofilm‐infected wounds
Authors: Park Eugene , Long Sarah A. , Seth Akhil K. , Geringer Matthew , Xu Wei , Chavez‐Munoz Claudia , Leung Kai , Hong Seok Jong , Galiano Robert D. , Mustoe Thomas A.
Published: October 2015

Chronic wounds colonized with biofilm present a major burden to our healthcare system. While the current paradigm for wound healing is to maintain a moist environment, we sought to evaluate the effects of desiccation, and the ability of honey to desiccate wounds, on wound healing characteristics in Staphylococcus aureus biofilm wounds. In vivo biofilm wound healing after exposure to open‐air desiccation, honey, molasses, and saline was analyzed using a rabbit ear model of S. aureus biofilm wounds previously developed by our group. Wound morphology was examined using scanning electron microscopy and granulation tissue deposition was measured using light microscopy with hematoxylin and eosin staining. Viable bacterial counts in rabbit ear biofilm wounds and scabs were measured using a drop dilution method. In vitro S. aureus growth curves were established using tryptic soy broth containing honey and glycerol. Gene expression analysis of rabbit ear wounds was performed using reverse transcription quantitative PCR. Rabbit ear S. aureus biofilm wounds exposed to open‐air desiccation, honey, and molasses developed a dry scab, which displaced the majority of biofilm bacteria off of the wound bed. Wounds treated with open‐air desiccation, honey, and molasses expressed lower levels of the inflammatory markers tumor necrosis factor‐α and interleukin‐1β at postoperative day 12 compared with wounds treated with saline, and had increased levels of granulation tissue formation. In vitro growth of S. aureus in tryptic soy broth was inhibited by the presence of honey to a greater extent than by the presence of osmolality‐matched glycerol. Desiccation of chronic wounds colonized with biofilm via exposure to open air or honey leads to improved wound healing by decreasing bacterial burden and inflammation, and increasing granulation tissue formation. The ability of honey to help heal chronic wounds is at least in part due to its ability to desiccate bacterial biofilm, but other factors clearly contribute.