bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agglomeration Properties of Semolina and Whole Wheat Flour Fortified with Flaxseed Flour
Authors: de la Peña Elena , Wiesenborn Dennis P. , Manthey Frank A.
Published: May 2015

Formation of large wet agglomerates during nontraditional pasta manufacturing is problematic to the pasta industry. The objective of this research was to characterize the wet agglomeration properties of semolina and a whole hard white winter wheat flour fortified with fine flaxseed flour (FF) and coarse flaxseed flour (CF). The formulations used were semolina 100% (S), whole wheat 100% (WW), semolina–whole wheat (49:51) (SWW), semolina–flaxseed flour (SCF/SFF) (90:10), whole wheat–flaxseed flour (WWCF/WWFF) (90:10) and semolina–whole wheat–flaxseed flour (SWWCF/SWWFF) (39:51:10). Samples were hydrated to 30, 31, 32, 33 and 34% moisture content. The formation of the largest agglomerates occurred with SFF hydrated above 30% moisture. Limited large agglomerate formation was detected in WW, WWFF, SWW and SWWFF regardless of hydration level. The maximum hydration level recommended for each formulation to avoid the formation of large agglomerates was as follows: 30% for SFF, 32% for SCF, 33% for S, WWFF and SWWFF and 34% for WW, WWCF, SWW and SWWCF.

Practical Applications

The information provided by this study is useful for pasta manufacturers that want to incorporate nontraditional ingredients in their pasta products. This study characterizes and provides recommendations to avoid or minimize the formation of extremely large agglomerates during the hydration step of the pasta‐making process, which is one of the main problems derived from utilizing nontraditional ingredients for pasta making. This study only addresses the incorporation of whole wheat flour and flaxseed flour; however, the information provided here can be applied to other nontraditional ingredients added to pasta. The magnitude of the problem may vary depending on the type of nontraditional ingredient, but the nature and origin of this problem will be the same.
Quantifying the Relationship between Rice Starch Gelatinization and Moisture‐Electrical Conductivity of Paddy during Soaking
Authors: Taghinezhad Ebrahim , Khoshtaghaza Mohammad Hadi , Suzuki Toru , Minaei Saeid , Brenner Tom
Published: May 2015

This study formulates a mathematical relationship correlating the degree of starch gelatinization (DSG) of rice to the paddy moisture‐electrical conductivity (EC) of paddy water during the soaking portion of the parboiling process. DSG values of rice were measured using differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Paddy was parboiled by soaking at 60, 65, 70 and 75C. At each temperature paddy samples were selected at five different soaking times. Optimum soaking times for 60, 65, 70 and 75C were determined to be 240, 180, 120 and 80 min, respectively. Paddy moisture (22.43–34.93%, wet basis), EC of paddy water (1.63–2.71 mS/cm) and DSG of rice (5.38–36.90%) increased with increasing temperature and soaking time. It was found that a linear relationship exists between DSG and EC, as well as between DSG and moisture content during soaking. EC of paddy water correlates well with DSG of rice during soaking. An online measurement system of paddy water EC was manufactured and evaluated. The relationship between DSG and EC can be utilized for quick and simple determination of DSG during soaking and eliminating the need for conventional chemical analysis.

Practical Applications

Parboiled rice enjoys high popularity because of its high nutritional content. The soaking stage is the most important stage of the parboiling process. Soaking conditions (temperature and time of soaking) largely determine the characteristics of the parboiled product and can be evaluated by DSG. Therefore, from an industrial point of view, it is important to apply the best processing conditions for parboiling rough rice. Hot soaking requires precise control because starch granules are gelatinized during soaking. Determination of DSG is commonly done by DSC instrument. This method is associated with high costs and cannot provide online data. Online measurement of EC values of paddy water during soaking can be used to easily and accurately predict the final time of the soaking stage. This study was developed as a quick and easy method for online determination of DSG values during soaking. The method presented here can be used for monitoring and controlling the soaking stage by measuring paddy water EC via an online system based on DSG values during soaking.
Angiotensin receptor blockers improve survival outcomes after radiofrequency ablation in hepatocarcinoma patients
Authors: Facciorusso Antonio , Del Prete Valentina , Crucinio Nicola , Muscatiello Nicola , Carr Brian I , Di Leo Alfredo , Barone Michele
Published: May 2015

Background and Aim

Inhibition of angiotensin II synthesis seems to decrease hepatocellular carcinoma recurrence after radical therapies; however, data on the adjuvant role of angiotensin II receptor 1 blockers (sartans) are still lacking. The aim of the study was to evaluate whether sartans delay time to recurrence and prolong overall survival in hepatocellular carcinoma patients after radiofrequency ablation.

Methods

Data on 153 patients were reviewed. The study population was classified into three groups: 73 (47.8%) patients who received neither angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors nor sartans (group 1), 49 (32%) patients treated with angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors (group 2), and 31 (20.2%) patients treated with sartans (group 3). Survival outcomes were analysed by means of Kaplan–Meier analysis and compared with log–rank test.

Results

In the whole study population, 85.6% of patients were in Child–Pugh A class and 89.6% in Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer A stage. Median maximum tumor diameter was 30 mm (10–40) and alpha fetoprotein was 25 (1.1–2100) UI/mL. No differences in baseline characteristics among the three groups were reported. Median overall survival was 48 months (95% confidence interval: 31–58) in group 1, 72 months (49–89) in group 2, and 84 months (58–92) in group 3 (P = 0.02). Median time to recurrence was 26 (15–42), 44 (33–72), and 69 (44–74) months in the three groups, respectively (P = 0.02). Sartan therapy was a significant predictor of longer overall survival and delayed time to recurrence on multivariate analysis.

Conclusion

Sartans significantly improved overall survival and time to recurrence after radiofrequency ablation in hepatocellular carcinoma patients.
Hepatic fibrosis assessed using transient elastography independently associated with coronary artery calcification
Authors: You Seng Chan , Kim Kwang Joon , Kim Seung Up , Kim Beom Kyung , Park Jun Yong , Kim Do Young , Ahn Sang Hoon , Han Kwang‐Hyub
Published: May 2015

Background and Aim

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has a close relationship with coronary atherosclerosis. We investigated the association between coronary atherosclerosis and liver fibrosis, represented as coronary artery calcification (CAC) score, and live stiffness (LS) value assessed using transient elastography (TE), respectively, in patients with NAFLD.

Methods

Between January 2013 and March 2014, a total of 285 asymptomatic subjects without chronic liver and ischemic heart diseases who underwent comprehensive medical health check‐up were recruited. NAFLD was defined as controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) ≥ 250 dB/m on TE.

Results

The median age of the study population (men 161 and women 124) was 56 (interquartile [IQR], 50–63) years. Of these, 142 (49.8%) subjects had NAFLD. Among subjects with NAFLD, CAC score was independently correlated with the male gender (β = 0.230; P = 0.010), elevated erythrocyte sedimentation rate (β = 0.220; P = 0.019), reduced estimated glomerular filtration rate (β=−0.220; P = 0.004), increased left ventricular mass index (β = 0.226; P = 0.027), and higher LS values (β = 0.274; P < 0.001). In addition, alanine aminotransferase level (β = 0.214, P = 0.012) and CAC score (β = 0.311; P = 0.001) are the only independent factors associated with LS values in subjects with NAFLD.

Conclusions

Higher CAC score was independently correlated with LS values in subjects with NAFLD. However, it should be further investigated whether TE can be incorporated into a screening tool to identify the high‐risk population for coronary artery disease.
Efficacy and safety of CT‐P13, a biosimilar of infliximab, in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: A retrospective multicenter study
Authors: Jung Yoon Suk , Park Dong Il , Kim Young Ho , Lee Ji Hyun , Seo Pyoung Ju , Cheon Jae Hee , Kang Hyoun Woo , Kim Ji Won
Published: May 2015

Background and Aim

The biosimilar of infliximab, CT‐P13, has recently been shown to be equivalent to infliximab in both efficacy and safety in the treatment of rheumatologic diseases. However, no data are available with respect to the drug's efficacy in patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). We aimed to assess the efficacy and safety of CT‐P13 in IBD patients

Methods

This was a retrospective multicenter study including both anti‐tumor necrosis factor (TNF) naïve patients and patients who switched from the biologic originator to CT‐P13.

Results

In anti‐TNF naïve Crohn's disease (CD) patients (n = 32), clinical response and remission rates were 90.6% and 68.8% at week 2, 90.6% and 84.4% at week 8, 95.5% and 77.3% at week 30, and 87.5% and 75.0% at week 54, respectively. In anti‐TNF naïve ulcerative colitis (UC) patients (n = 42), clinical response and remission rates were 76.2% and 19.0% at week 2, 81.0% and 38.1% at week 8, 91.3% and 47.8% at week 30, and 100% and 50.0% at week 54, respectively, while mucosal healing rates were 58.3% at week 8, 66.7% at week 30, and 66.7% at week 54. The efficacy of CT‐P13 was maintained in 92.6% (25/27) of CD patients and in 66.7% (6/9) of UC patients after switching from its originator. Adverse events related to CT‐P13 occurred in 11.8% of UC patients.

Conclusions

CT‐P13 appears to have comparable efficacy, safety, and interchangeability with its originator in the treatment of IBD. Further prospective studies with long‐term follow‐up periods will be needed to confirm the biosimilarity of CT‐P13.
Thyroid function is associated with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease in chronic hepatitis B‐infected subjects
Authors: Ding Wen‐Jin , Wang Man‐Man , Wang Gong‐Sui , Shen Fen , Qin Jian‐Jun , Fan Jian‐Gao
Published: May 2015

Background and Aims

Associations between thyroid function and non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) are unknown in chronic hepatitis B (CHB)‐infected patients. Thus, the aim of the study was to investigate the prevalence of thyroid dysfunction and its relationship with NAFLD in CHB.

Methods

Consecutive naive CHB infected patients that had undergone liver biopsy and serum thyroid function tests between January 2007 and December 2011 were retrospective analyzed. NAFLD was diagnosed as at least 5% biopsy‐proven hepatic steatosis without significant alcohol consumption.

Results

A total of 1154 non‐alcoholics with CHB were included, 270 (23.39%) patients were found to have NAFLD, most of them (88.5%) with mild steatosis. The prevalence of hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism (including subclinical and overt) was 1.56% and 1.64%, respectively, both with similar rates in patients with and without NAFLD (1.85% vs 1.47%, 1.48% vs 1.69%, respectively, both P > 0.05). The serum thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) level in NAFLD patients was significantly higher than that in patients without NAFLD (2.22 ± 2.13 vs 1.61 ± 1.20 mIU/L, P < 0.05). After adjustment for age and gender, the elevated TSH level was associated with increased odds of having steatosis (odds ratio1.54, 95% confidence interval 1.049–2.271) instead of viral factors and hepatic inflammation and fibrosis.

Conclusions

Thyroid dysfunction is not common in CHB‐infected patients, and the prevalence of hypothyroidism in CHB individuals with or without NAFLD is similar. However, increased serum TSH concentration at the normal range is a significant predictor of hepatic steatosis in patients with CHB.
Malnutrition in cirrhosis increases morbidity and mortality
Authors: Maharshi Sudhir , Sharma Barjesh Chander , Srivastava Siddharth
Published: May 2015

Background and Aims

Malnutrition is frequent in patients with cirrhosis and is associated with complications like ascites, hepatic encephalopathy, infections, and death. We determined the prevalence of malnutrition by various methods and its clinical importance in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Consecutive patients of cirrhosis from August 2013 to February 2015 were assessed. Nutritional status was assessed by traditional model (mid‐arm circumference, triceps skinfold thickness, serum albumin, creatinine height index, total lymphocyte count), handgrip, and body composition analysis measuring skeletal muscle mass and body fat mass. All patients were followed up for 12 months to assess the outcome.

Results

247 patients (age 42.10 ± 10.14 years, 81% male) were included in the study. Etiology of cirrhosis was alcohol in 53% patients. Prevalence of malnutrition was 59.5% according to traditional model, 66.8% by body composition analysis and 71.4% by handgrip. Nutritional status was poor in alcoholic cirrhotics versus nonalcoholics as assessed by triceps skinfold thickness (9.33 ± 2.9 vs 11.64 ± 3.5 mm; P = 0.001), serum albumin (25.1 ± 4 vs 28.1 ± 4 g/L; P = 0.001), and body fat mass (7.6 ± 3.1 vs 8.7 ± 3.3 kg; P = 0.008). Prevalence of malnutrition was 12/27 (44.5%), 96/131 (73.3%) and 84/89 (94.4%) in Child's class A, B, and C respectively. Complications requiring hospitalization (71.3% vs 38.2%; 0.002) and mortality (41.1% vs 18.2%; P = 0.001) were more in malnourished patients compared to well nourished. Nutritional assessment parameters significantly correlated with the liver disease severity (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Prevalence of malnutrition is high in patients with cirrhosis. It is associated with increased complications and mortality.
The role of muscle proprioceptors in human limb position sense: a hypothesis
Authors: Proske Uwe.
Published: May 2015

In this mini‐review I have proposed that there are two kinds of position sense, one a sense of the position of one part of the body relative to another, the other a sense of the location in space of our body and its limbs. A common method used to measure position sense is to ask subjects to match with one arm the position adopted by the other. Here all of the evidence points to muscle spindles as the major proprioceptors, with cutaneous receptors acting as proprioceptors providing a supporting role. Other senses such as vision do not play a major role. The sense of localisation in space measured by pointing to the arm, rather than matching its position, I propose, is not served by proprioceptors but by exteroceptors, vision, touch and hearing. Here the afferent input is relayed to sensory areas of the brain, to address the postural schema, a cortical map of the body and limbs, specifying its size and shape. It is here that spatial location is computed. This novel interpretation of position sense as two separate entities has the advantage of proposing new, future experiments and if it is supported by the findings, it will represent an important step forward in our understanding of the central processing of spatial information.
Evaluation of articulation simulation system using artificial maxillectomy models
Authors: Elbashti M. E. , Hattori M. , Sumita Y. I. , Taniguchi H.
Published: May 2015

Acoustic evaluation is valuable for guiding the treatment of maxillofacial defects and determining the effectiveness of rehabilitation with an obturator prosthesis. Model simulations are important in terms of pre‐surgical planning and pre‐ and post‐operative speech function. This study aimed to evaluate the acoustic characteristics of voice generated by an articulation simulation system using a vocal tract model with or without artificial maxillectomy defects. More specifically, we aimed to establish a speech simulation system for maxillectomy defect models that both surgeons and maxillofacial prosthodontists can use in guiding treatment planning. Artificially simulated maxillectomy defects were prepared according to Aramany's classification (Classes I–VI) in a three‐dimensional vocal tract plaster model of a subject uttering the vowel /a/. Formant and nasalance acoustic data were analysed using Computerized Speech Lab and the Nasometer, respectively. Formants and nasalance of simulated /a/ sounds were successfully detected and analysed. Values of Formants 1 and 2 for the non‐defect model were 675·43 and 976·64 Hz, respectively. Median values of Formants 1 and 2 for the defect models were 634·36 and 1026·84 Hz, respectively. Nasalance was 11% in the non‐defect model, whereas median nasalance was 28% in the defect models. The results suggest that an articulation simulation system can be used to help surgeons and maxillofacial prosthodontists to plan post‐surgical defects that will be facilitate maxillofacial rehabilitation.
Sociodemographic conditions, knowledge of dental diseases, dental care, and dietary habits
Authors: Jacobsson Brittmarie , Ho Thi Thanh , Hoang Ngoc Chuong , Hugoson Anders
Published: May 2015

Objectives

This study's aim was to present data on the sociodemographic conditions, knowledge of dental diseases, dental care, and dietary habits among children aged 3, 5, 10, and 15 years in Da Nang, Vietnam.

Methods

A cross‐sectional epidemiological questionnaire study was conducted in a population of 840 children randomly selected by their year and month of birth (January to July), including 210 individuals in each age group. A self‐reported questionnaire was completed by the parents of 3‐ and 5‐year‐olds, and a modified questionnaire was given to 10‐ and 15‐year‐olds to complete by themselves.

Results

Mass media constituted the main source of oral healthcare information. Parents assisted with tooth brushing in 86 percent of 3‐year‐olds and 71 percent of 5‐year‐olds. Fluoride toothpaste was used by 44‐78 percent of children, with no clear age‐related trend. Within the past year, 60 percent of 3‐ and 5‐year‐olds, 20 percent of 10‐year‐olds, and 49 percent of 15‐year‐olds reported they had not visited a dental professional. Sweets were consumed between principal meals by 70‐80 percent of children. Milk with sugar was regularly consumed by 71 percent of 3‐year‐olds and 91 percent of 5‐year‐olds.

Conclusions

Children showed frequent sugar consumption and insufficient frequency of brushing their teeth with fluoride toothpaste. Food‐based dietary guidelines should play a significant role in nutrition and oral health. It is especially important that oral health prevention programs reach preschool children before they establish unhealthy dietary habits. Parental education about oral health and access to oral healthcare services are also needed to improve children's oral health.
Structure Analysis of Short‐Dough Biscuits and Its Correlation with Sensory Discriminants
Authors: Mieszkowska Arleta , Marzec Agata
Published: May 2015

The aim of this study was to analyze the structural properties and their effect upon the sensory perception of short‐dough biscuits with a reduced content of fat (74.1, 64.8 and 55.6%) and various addition of inulin (9.3 and 18.5%) in the formula. The principal component analysis presents correlations between structure parameters of biscuits determined with the use of an FEI QUANTA 200 scanning microscope and a helium pycnometer (Quantachrome), as well as sensory discriminants. The biscuits were characterized by open structure with a high number of pores. The biscuits with fat and inulin participation relatively – 74.1 and 9.3%, as well as 55.6 and 9.3% – had the lowest porosity. Significant correlations have been found between taste and smell related to size area of air cells, as well as crispness and hardness related to shape coefficient. Correlations determined in this study proved that the structural properties of biscuits affect their sensory perception by consumers.

Practical Applications

The appropriate structure of short‐dough biscuits depends on the selection of their ingredients. Development of many diseases depending on diet, e.g., obesity, is due to a very high intake of fat or sugar. For this reason, formulas of food products are developed with reduced contents of these components or with the use of their replacers which – apart from decreasing the calorific value – impart health‐promoting functions to food products. Sparse studies are available today that address structure analysis with simultaneous evaluation of the sensory properties of short‐dough biscuits with reduced fat content or with the use of fat replacers. Hence, such an analysis would facilitate the appropriate selection of recipe ingredients that will ensure the highest possible quality of the biscuits.
Quantitative Accuracy of the Simplified Strong Ion Equation to Predict SerumpHin Dogs
Authors: Cave N.J. , Koo S.T.
Published: May 2015

Background

Electrochemical approach to the assessment of acid‐base states should provide a better mechanistic explanation of the metabolic component than methods that consider onlypHand carbon dioxide.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Simplified strong ion equation (SSIE), using published dog‐specific values, would predict the measured serumpHof diseased dogs.

Animals

Ten dogs, hospitalized for various reasons.

Methods

Prospective study of a convenience sample of a consecutive series of dogs admitted to the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital (MUVTH), from which serum biochemistry and blood gas analyses were performed at the same time. SerumpHwas calculatedusing theSSIE, and published values for the concentration and dissociation constant for the nonvolatile weak acids (AtotandKa), and subsequentlywas compared with the dog's actualpH. To determine the source of discordance betweenand, the calculations were repeated using a series of substituted values for AtotandKa.

Results

Thedid not approximate thefor any dog (P = 0.499,r2 = 0.068), and was consistently more basic. Substituted values AtotandKadid not significantly improve the accuracy (r2 = 0.169 to <0.001). Substituting the effectiveSIDproduced a strong association betweenand(r2 = 0.977).

Conclusions and clinical importance

Using the simplified strong ion equation and the published values for AtotandKadoes not appear to provide a quantitative explanation for the acid‐base status of dogs. Efficacy of substituting the effectiveSIDin the simplified strong ion equation suggests the error lies in calculating theSID.
A Context‐Dependent View on the Linguistic Interdependence Hypothesis: Language Use and SES as Potential Moderators
Authors: Prevoo Mariëlle J.L. , Malda Maike , Emmen Rosanneke A.G. , Yeniad Nihal , Mesman Judi
Published: May 2015

The linguistic interdependence hypothesis states that the development of skills in a second language (L2) partly depends on the skill level in the first language (L1). It has been suggested that the theory lacked attention for differential interdependence. In this study we test what we call the hypothesis of context‐dependent linguistic interdependence. In order to do so, we examined child language use and socioeconomic status as two moderators in the relation between L1 vocabulary and L2 vocabulary growth in a sample of 104 5‐ and 6‐year‐old bilingual children with a Turkish background in the Netherlands. Relative child language use moderated the relation between L1 vocabulary and L2 vocabulary growth. Positive transfer was only present for children who used L1 more than L2. Socioeconomic status (SES) predicted growth in Dutch vocabulary but was not a moderator of linguistic interdependence, indicating that linguistic interdependence effects are similar across SES groups. The findings suggest the linguistic interdependence hypothesis is context‐dependent and only valid under circumstances of more L1 use.
L2 Processing of Plural Inflection in English
Authors: Song Yoonsang
Published: May 2015

This study investigates (1) whether late second language (L2) learners can attain native‐like knowledge of English plural inflection even when their first language (L1) lacks an equivalent and (2) whether they construct hierarchically structured representations during online sentence processing like native speakers. In a self‐paced reading task, native English speakers and advanced Korean learners of English were tested on their (in)sensitivity to plural errors in two different structures. The results indicate that despite the L1–L2 difference, the learners were sensitive to plural errors in both structures, and that their sensitivity to the errors was affected by the structural distance of the feature‐checking dependency related to plural inflection, like the native speakers’ sensitivity. These findings suggest that (1) L2 learners can acquire target‐like L2 inflection knowledge, even if such inflection is not present in their L1, contra the representational deficit account and that (2) they are sensitive to structural distance because they compute hierarchically structured representations during real‐time language comprehension, contra the shallow structure hypothesis.
RAD genotyping reveals fine‐scale genetic structuring and provides powerful population assignment in a widely distributed marine species, the American lobster (Homarus americanus)
Authors: Benestan Laura , Gosselin Thierry , Perrier Charles , Sainte‐Marie Bernard , Rochette Rémy , Bernatchez Louis
Published: May 2015

Deciphering genetic structure and inferring connectivity in marine species have been challenging due to weak genetic differentiation and limited resolution offered by traditional genotypic methods. The main goal of this study was to assess how a population genomics framework could help delineate the genetic structure of the American lobster (Homarus americanus) throughout much of the species’ range and increase the assignment success of individuals to their location of origin. We genotyped 10 156 filtered SNPs using RAD sequencing to delineate genetic structure and perform population assignment for 586 American lobsters collected in 17 locations distributed across a large portion of the species’ natural distribution range. Our results revealed the existence of a hierarchical genetic structure, first separating lobsters from the northern and southern part of the range (FCT = 0.0011; P‐value = 0.0002) and then revealing a total of 11 genetically distinguishable populations (mean FST = 0.00185; CI: 0.0007–0.0021, P‐value < 0.0002), providing strong evidence for weak, albeit fine‐scale population structuring within each region. A resampling procedure showed that assignment success was highest with a subset of 3000 SNPs having the highest FST. Applying Anderson's (Molecular Ecology Resources, 2010, 10, 701) method to avoid ‘high‐grading bias’, 94.2% and 80.8% of individuals were correctly assigned to their region and location of origin, respectively. Lastly, we showed that assignment success was positively associated with sample size. These results demonstrate that using a large number of SNPs improves fine‐scale population structure delineation and population assignment success in a context of weak genetic structure. We discuss the implications of these findings for the conservation and management of highly connected marine species, particularly regarding the geographic scale of demographic independence.
Evaluation of serum Spondin 2 levels in the different stages of Type 2 diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Kahvecioglu Serdar , Guclu Metin , Ustundag Yasemin , Gul Cuma Bulent , Dogan Ibrahim , Dagel Tuncay , Esen Bennur , Akturk Esen Selin , Celik Huseyin , Esen Irfan
Published: May 2015

Aim

We aimed to determine whether serum SPON2 is a useful biomarker in the detection of Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) and to compare serum SPON2 levels with 24‐hour urinary albumin excretion rate (UAER) in patients with DN at different stages.

Methods

The cohort included 80 adult patients with T2D and 20 healthy controls. The patients with T2D were divided into four groups according to UAER and serum creatinine (sCr) levels. Group 1 consisted of patients with normoalbuminuria (n = 20), Group 2 with microalbuminuria (n = 20), Group 3 with macroalbuminuria (n = 20) and Group 4 with albuminuria and sCr > 1.5 mg/dL (n = 20).

Results

There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of demographic data, C‐reactive protein, HbA1c, lipids, serum uric acid levels and leukocyte counts. SPON2 levels were observed to increase linearly with increasing severity of diabetic nephropathy levels. The SPON2 levels of Group 4 were significantly higher than Group 1 and the controls, and SPON2 levels of Group 3 were significantly higher than Group 1. Blood urea nitrogen, creatinine and UAER were significantly positively correlated with SPON2; serum total protein and calcium levels were negatively correlated with SPON2 in patients with DN.

Conclusion

We observed a linear and significant increase in SPON2 levels of patients with T2D as the stage of DN increased, but serum SPON2 level was not as effective as microalbuminuria in reflecting nephropathy. Also, serum SPON2 level was not as good as urine and tissue levels of SPON2 in detection of renal damage in DN.
Spatiotemporal variation in selection of roads influences mortality risk for canids in an unprotected landscape
Authors: Benson John F. , Mahoney Peter J. , Patterson Brent R.
Published: May 2015

Ecologists are increasingly documenting individual variation in resource selection across populations in response to temporal or spatial environmental context. These behavioral patterns are assumed to be adaptive although previous studies have not linked them directly to survival and reproductive data to verify the assumed relationship between behavior and fitness. Recent work documented that higher density of secondary roads within home ranges of free‐ranging canids (wolves, coyotes and hybrids) increased mortality risk in the hybrid zone adjacent to Algonquin Park in Ontario, Canada. Here, we examine individual behavioral responses of canids to spatially varying levels of human‐disturbance and determine whether these responses to secondary roads resulted in differential mortality risk for canids across the hybrid zone. Specifically, we investigated resource selection within home ranges with GPS telemetry to determine whether canids selected roads more at night than during the day to minimize dangerous encounters with humans. Next, we modeled individual variation in spatial and temporal responses to secondary roads to evaluate the relative importance of intrinsic (Canisancestry) and extrinsic (resource availability) influences on their behavior. Behavioral responses to roads were not well explained by variation inCanisancestry. Instead, canids avoided roads more during day than at night as a non‐linear function of increased road availability. Furthermore, canids that survived exhibited a stronger relationship between day–night selection of roads and road availability than canids that died suggesting an adaptive nature of this behavior. By modifying their selection of roads between day and night, canids appear to be able to exploit the beneficial attributes of roads while mitigating human‐caused mortality risk. However, not all canids responded adaptively highlighting the importance of explicitly linking patterns of resource selection to components of fitness to accurately model and interpret individual variation in resource selection behavior of animals.
Effectiveness and Reliability of Selected Site Pacing for Avoidance of Phrenic Nerve Stimulation in CRT Patients with Quadripolar LV Leads: The EffaceQ Study
Authors: OSWALD HANNO , ASBACH STEFAN , KÖBE JULIA , WEGLAGE HEINRICH , SCHULTE‐PITZKE BERNFRIED , BRACHMANN JOHANNES
Published: May 2015

Background

Cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) relies on sufficient left ventricular (LV) pacing with safety margin to phrenic nerve stimulation (PNS). Previous studies introduced LV vector reprogramming in bipolar coronary sinus leads to optimize LV pacing and avoid PNS. We investigated the efficacy and reliability of quadripolar leads in CRT.

Methods

The EffaceQ study enrolled 344 patients with de novo CRT implantation with a quadripolar LV lead in an observational, prospective multicenter study. The study was powered to demonstrate that in at least 90% of patients with an implanted quadripolar LV lead, a viable LV pacing configuration (LVPC) is available (primary end point: LV pacing threshold ≤2.5 V/0.5 ms, sufficient PNS margin).

Results

Quadripolar leads were successfully implanted in 96% of patients. A total of 278 of 299 (93.0%) patients with complete data met the criteria for viable LVPC. With the use of traditional LVPCs, a viable LVPC would have been available (268 of 299 patients; P = 0.002) in significantly fewer patients (89.6%). In any LVPC, PNS was inducible in 65.0% of patients and 22.6% of patients reported PNS during ambulatory 3‐month follow‐up. LVPC reprogramming was performed in 49.8% of patients. PNS inducibility decreased from distal to proximal electrodes, whereas LV pacing thresholds increased from distal to proximal. At prehospital discharge, 5.9 ± 2.8 viable LVPCs were observed, stable during follow‐up. The quadripolar electrode offered significantly more LVPC for LV optimization and PNS avoidance.

Conclusion

Quadripolar LV leads yield high numbers of patients with viable LVPCs and alternatives for noninvasive repositioning of LV pacing.
Clinical Predictors of Pacemaker Implantation in Patients with Syncope Receiving Implantable Loop Recorder with or without ECG Conduction Abnormalities
Authors: AHMED NAUMAN , FRONTERA ANTONIO , CARPENTER ALEXANDER , CATALDO STAFENIA , CONNOLLY GEORGIA M. , FASIOLO MATTEO , CRIPPS TIM , THOMAS GLYN , DIAB IHAB , DUNCAN EDWARD R.
Published: May 2015

Background

Implantable loop recorders (ILR) allow prolonged cardiac rhythm monitoring and improved diagnostic yield in syncope patients. Predictive factors for pacemaker (PM) implantation in the ILR population with unexplained syncope have not been adequately investigated. In this single center, retrospective, observational study we investigated factors that predict PM implantation in this population.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed our ILR database of patients aged over 18 years who underwent ILR implantation for unexplained syncope between January 2009 and June 2013. Patient case notes were examined for demographics, history, electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, investigations, and events during follow‐up. The primary end‐point was the detection of a symptomatic or asymptomatic bradycardia requiring PM implantation.

Results

During a period of 4.5 years, 200 patients were implanted with ILR for unexplained syncope, of who n = 33 (16.5%) had clinically significant bradycardia requiring PM implantation. After multivariable analysis, history of injury secondary to syncope was found to be the strongest independent predictor for PM implantation (odds ratio [OR]:9.1; P < 0.001; 95% confidence interval [CI]: (3.26–26.81). Other significant predictors included female sex, PR interval > 200msec, and age >75 years. In patients without conduction abnormalities on the ECG, history of injury secondary to syncope was found to be the strongest independent predictor for PM implantation (OR: 8.16; P = 0.00027; 95% [CI]: (2.67–26.27).

Conclusions

A history of injury secondary to syncope and female sex were independent predictive factors for bradycardia necessitating PM implantation in patients receiving an ILR for syncope with or without ECG conduction abnormalities.
Elevated CO2 improves lipid accumulation by increasing carbon metabolism in Chlorella sorokiniana
Authors: Sun Zhilan , Chen Yi‐Feng , Du Jianchang
Published: May 2015

Supplying microalgae with extra CO2 is a promising means for improving lipid production. The molecular mechanisms involved in lipid accumulation under conditions of elevated CO2, however, remain to be fully elucidated. To understand how elevated CO2 improves lipid production, we performed sequencing of Chlorella sorokiniana LS‐2 cellular transcripts during growth and compared transcriptional dynamics of genes involved in carbon flow from CO2 to triacylglycerol. These analyses identified the majority genes of carbohydrate metabolism and lipid biosynthesis pathways in C. sorokiniana LS‐2. Under high doses of CO2, despite down‐regulation of most de novo fatty acid biosynthesis genes, genes involved in carbohydrate metabolic pathways including carbon fixation, chloroplastic glycolysis, components of the pyruvate dehydrogenase complex (PDHC) and chloroplastic membrane transporters were upexpressed at the prolonged lipid accumulation phase. The data indicate that lipid production is largely independent of de novo fatty acid synthesis. Elevated CO2 might push cells to channel photosynthetic carbon precursors into fatty acid synthesis pathways, resulting in an increase of overall triacylglycerol generation. In support of this notion, genes involved in triacylglycerol biosynthesis were substantially up‐regulated. Thus, elevated CO2 may influence regulatory dynamics and result in increased carbon flow to triacylglycerol, thereby providing a feasible approach to increase lipid production in microalgae.
Compact tomato seedlings and plants upon overexpression of a tomato chromatin remodelling ATPase gene
Authors: Folta Adam , Bargsten Joachim W. , Bisseling Ton , Nap Jan‐Peter , Mlynarova Ludmila
Published: May 2015

Control of plant growth is an important aspect of crop productivity and yield in agriculture. Overexpression of the AtCHR12/23 genes in Arabidopsis thaliana reduced growth habit without other morphological changes. These two genes encode Snf2 chromatin remodelling ATPases. Here, we translate this approach to the horticultural crop tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). We identified and cloned the single tomato ortholog of the two Arabidopsis Snf2 genes, designated SlCHR1. Transgenic tomato plants (cv. Micro‐Tom) that constitutively overexpress the coding sequence of SlCHR1 show reduced growth in all developmental stages of tomato. This confirms that SlCHR1 combines the functions of both Arabidopsis genes in tomato. Compared to the wild type, the transgenic seedlings of tomato have significantly shorter roots, hypocotyls and reduced cotyledon size. Transgenic plants have a much more compact growth habit with markedly reduced plant height, severely compacted reproductive structures with smaller flowers and smaller fruits. The results indicate that either GMO‐based or non‐GMO‐based approaches to modulate the expression of chromatin remodelling ATPase genes could develop into methods to control plant growth, for example to replace the use of chemical growth retardants. This approach is likely to be applicable and attractive for any crop for which growth habit reduction has added value.
Over‐expression of AtGSTU19 provides tolerance to salt, drought and methyl viologen stresses in Arabidopsis
Authors: Xu Jing , Tian Yong‐Sheng , Xing Xiao‐Juan , Peng Ri‐He , Zhu Bo , Gao Jian‐Jie , Yao Quan‐Hong
Published: May 2015

The plant‐specific tau class of glutathione S‐transferases (GSTs) is often highly stress‐inducible and expressed in a tissue‐specific manner, thereby suggesting its important protective roles. Although activities associated with the binding and transport of reactive metabolites have been proposed, little is known about the regulatory functions of GSTs. Expression of AtGSTU19 is induced by several stimuli, but the function of this GST remains unknown. In this study, we demonstrated that transgenic over‐expressing (OE) plants showed enhanced tolerance to different abiotic stresses and increased percentage of seed germination and cotyledon emergence. Transgenic plants exhibited an increased level of proline and activities of antioxidant enzymes, along with decreased malonyldialdehyde level under stress conditions. Real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analyses revealed that the expression levels of several stress‐regulated genes were altered in AtGSTU19 OE plants. These results indicate that AtGSTU19 plays an important role in tolerance to salt/drought/methyl viologen stress in Arabidopsis.
Evaluating Transformational Leaders: The Challenging Case of Eric Shinseki and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Authors: Van Wart Montgomery
Published: May 2015

Evaluating less than fully successful transformational leaders is difficult. One common method of assessing leadership is to focus on a single temporal narrative. A second approach uses a particular theory, such as transformational leadership, to frame the analysis. The latter, less common strategy is used with the example of Eric Shinseki, who served as both chief of staff of the U.S. Army and as secretary of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). The analytic framework used here has six major elements that are specified by 22 factors. Using those factors to evaluate Shinseki's tenure at the VA, he is found to be very poor in only 2 factors but poor in 11, adequate in 6, good in 1, and excellent in only 2. While using a list of factors does not eliminate subjectivity or the challenges of reaching a single assessment, it does clarify the elements of judgment and weighting.
Wait Until Your Mother Gets Home! Mothers' and Fathers' Discipline Strategies
Authors: Hallers‐Haalboom Elizabeth T. , Groeneveld Marleen G. , van Berkel Sheila R. , Endendijk Joyce J. , van der Pol Lotte D. , Bakermans‐Kranenburg Marian J. , Mesman Judi
Published: May 2015

From a traditional viewpoint, fathers are seen as the main disciplinarian in the family. However, recent studies suggest that these traditional family role patterns may have changed. In this study, we observed discipline strategies of mothers and fathers toward their sons and daughters. Participants included 242 families with two children (1 and 3 years of age). Findings revealed that parental discipline varied by the age of the children, but that mothers disciplined their children more often than fathers. Fathers, conversely, showed more laxness in response to child non‐compliance. Gender of the children was only related to physical interference, with mothers using more physical interference with boys than fathers, irrespective of birth order. Taken together, these findings highlight the importance of parent gender for parent–child interactions in early childhood, but also suggest that child age should be taken into account as important explanatory factors.
Economic Uncertainty, Job Threat, and the Resiliency of the Millennial Generation's Attitudes Toward Immigration*
Authors: Ross Ashley D. , Rouse Stella M.
Published: May 2015

Objective

Drawing a distinction between conditional and prevalence factors that affect immigration attitudes, we examine if the recent economic recession has influenced the Millennial Generation's attitudes about immigration, compared to non‐Millennials.

Methods

Employing data from the 2008 American National Election Study (ANES), we conduct a logit analysis to estimate the effects of theoretically relevant factors on immigration attitudes.

Results

Our findings indicate that even in the face of poor economic conditions that disproportionately impacted Millennials, this cohort's attitudes toward immigration are quite resilient. While Millennials’ immigration attitudes vary across a number of determinants, overall, they are more tolerant of immigration than non‐Millennials.

Conclusion

Millennials’ tolerance of immigration is consistent with their general liberal beliefs. This is true even under the conditional impact of economic self‐interest and the conditional and prevalence impact of culture during the recession—a time when Millennials could have been susceptible to factors mitigating their feelings toward immigrants.
Digital Image Correlation Used for Experimental Investigations of Al/Mg Compounds
Authors: Kirbach C. , Lehmann T. , Stockmann M. , Ihlemann J.
Published: May 2015

Al/Mg compounds produced by hydrostatic extrusion exhibit unique characteristics in terms of high strength and low weight, which are required in lightweight safety parts. The compound interface between the core and sleeve is a brittle intermetallic phase consisting of Al2Mg3 and Al12Mg17. However, a certain plastic deformability is required for subsequent processing of the semi‐finished product by forming. To obtain a basic understanding of the deformation behaviour of the interface, the Digital Image Correlation is used together with a new analysis procedure based on the approximation of the displacement field with polynomial functions. The procedure is first tested with a bending test. The specimens exhibit a remarkable deformation behaviour under bending at high temperatures, which is confirmed by the results of radial upsetting tests. Even under a multi‐axle load, the interface maintains a full material joint, though fragmentation occurs, and a new secondary interface between the fragments can be observed. In addition, an evaluation of light microscopy images and Eulerian Hencky strain values at the interface, which are based on the Digital Image Correlation results, imply a connection between the strain and the boundary layer's appearance.
THO2, a core member of the THO/TREX complex, is required for microRNA production in Arabidopsis
Authors: Francisco‐Mangilet Anchilie G. , Karlsson Patricia , Kim Myung‐Hee , Eo Hyeon Ju , Oh Sung Aeong , Kim Jeong Hoe , Kulcheski Franceli Rodrigues , Park Soon Ki , Manavella Pablo Andrés
Published: May 2015

The THO/TREX complex mediates transport of nascent mRNAs from the nucleus towards the cytoplasm in animals, and has a role in small interfering RNA‐dependent processes in plants. Here we describe five mutant alleles of Arabidopsis thaliana THO2, which encodes a core subunit of the plant THO/TREX complex. tho2 mutants present strong developmental defects resembling those in plants compromised in microRNA (miRNA) activity. In agreement, not only were the levels of siRNAs reduced in tho2 mutants, but also those of mature miRNAs. As a consequence, a feedback mechanism is triggered, increasing the amount of miRNA precursors, and finally causing accumulation of miRNA‐targeted mRNAs. Yeast two‐hybrid experiments and confocal microscopy showed that THO2 does not appear to interact with any of the known miRNA biogenesis components, but rather with the splicing machinery, implying an indirect role of THO2 in small RNA biogenesis. Using an RNA immunoprecipitation approach, we found that THO2 interacts with miRNA precursors, and that tho2 mutants fail to recruit such precursors into the miRNA‐processing complex, explaining the reduction in miRNA production in this mutant background. We also detected alterations in the splicing pattern of genes encoding serine/arginine‐rich proteins in tho2 mutants, supporting a previously unappreciated role of the THO/TREX complex in alternative splicing.